IMS Grandstands Going Smoke-Free
(photo courtesy Indianapolis Motor Speedway)
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe Indianapolis Motor Speedway has announced plans to make its grandstands completely smoke-free this fall. The move will begin with the 2017 Red Bull Air Race in October and, before then, the Speedway will have limited smoke-free family grandstands available at select events.
IMS says smoking will not be permitted in any of the grandstands beginning with the air race, which takes place October 14-15, and continuing through the entire 2018 season. Before the air race, the smoke-free family grandstands will be available during the INDYCAR Grand Prix, Miller Lite Carb Day and the Brickyard 400.
Fans in the grandstands that wish to smoke will be asked to stay 20 feet away from buildings and reserved seating entrances. The Speedway says smoking will still be permitted in the IMS infield.
"In recent years, our fans have consistently asked us to provide a smoke-free experience in the grandstands," said IMS President Doug Boles. "This is especially true among families bringing younger children to the track. I’m pleased we’re making this move and look forward to working with our operational team, fans and partners to implement these changes."
The smoke-free family grandstands were first introduced during Carb Day in 2016. IMS says it will provide additional guidance for fans related to the new smoking policies in the coming months.
"The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is one of the premier attractions in Indiana, and it’s exciting to see it taking a public stand for smoke-free environments," said Indiana State Health Commissioner Jerome Adams. "I can’t think of a more visible endorsement of better health for Hoosiers and those who visit our state."