
Bell driver Helio Castroneves let the tears flow after an emotional 2009 Indianapolis 500 victory, his third 500 win on the Speedwayâs 100th anniversary. Bell drivers Dan Wheldon and Danica Patrick took second and third place. âThanks for giving my life back,â Castroneves said in victory lane, after being acquitted of tax evasion charges in April. Helio completed a perfect month by winning the pole, pit stop competition and race. "You guys kept me strong," Castroneves told the crowd. "You guys are the best. I'm honored to have fans like you. Let's celebrate now!" he screamed to the quarter of a million race fans. âThis is the best month of May ever. Wow. Three. I canât believe it.â Castroneves started on the pole and led the first seven laps, then laid back for most of the afternoon. On a restart after a yellow flag, Castroneves reclaimed the lead from 2008 winner Scott Dixon with 59 laps to go, leading the rest of the way. âOnce I got in the front, it was, âNever look back,â Castroneves said after the victory. On a restart with 17 laps to go, Castroneves got a great jump on Wheldon and Patrick and pulled away to win by 1.98 seconds. âAt the end, I just didnât have enough for Helio,â said Wheldon, the 2005 Indy 500 winner. 2005 Indy Rookie of the Year Danica Patrick was not able to get around Wheldon to challenge Castroneves for the win. âIâm very happy for him,â Patrick said. âIâm glad to have him back, and obviously heâs great for the sport.â Helio Castroneves wears the Bell T6 Interceptor.