Trump’s D.C. IndyCar Race Was Actually Kind of Fun

On a Sunday afternoon, I found myself at the Freedom 250 Grand Prix in Washington D.C. An interest in car racing wasn't what brought me there; instead, I was concerned about art. The event saw 25 cars racing around various D.C. museums and historic buildings, causing worry among preservationists and conservators. Upon arriving, I was surprised by the lively atmosphere and found myself enjoying the experience more than anticipated.

The National Gallery of Art's large Calder sculpture was surrounded by wood boards as if it were preparing for war, but it turned out that being close to the action made the event more immersive. I could feel the vibrations in my toes as I crammed into the sweaty crowd. Unlike other Freedom 250 productions, this Grand Prix turned out to be fun, with the good vibes starting when I spotted a driver's maintenance truck decorated with puppies.

The race course presented challenges, and only slightly more than half of the drivers finished. Kyle Kirkwood, an American, emerged as the winner. While the event did disrupt life in the nation's capital, causing traffic issues and airport flight delays, some residents expressed annoyance. The concerns about vibrations and potential damage to artifacts were valid, as I noticed the I.M. Pei skylights shaking during the race.

Despite the initial concerns, the event had a certain excitement to it. A former amateur racer and F1 fan, Keith Cole, appreciated the unique atmosphere and noted that many fans were there for the sport itself. The National Mall, typically a reflective space, felt more like a backyard, with IndyCar fans enjoying games and activities. The event successfully connected art and racing, with the National Gallery making the most of the connection it could find with the race.