Posted on 5/23/2007 7:46:22 PM

Indianapolis 500 Betting Odds

By Robby Maddux

The field is set for the 91st running of the Indianapolis 500 and bettors are strapping up for the ride on Sunday.

History shows that the race winner in the Indy 500 usually comes from among the first three rows of starters. This year, however, the winner could come as far back as the fifth row because the field's talent is the best it has been in several years.

Dan Wheldon (+230) is the oddsmaker’s choice to win this year's Indianapolis 500. Wheldon is the complete package and has everything a bettor could ask for in a winning selection for Chip Ganassi. He didn't hide his disappointment after a less-than-stellar qualifying effort and will start sixth, but all he's talked about since is that the real payday is on race day.

Polesitter Helio Castroneves (+285) is the co-favorite and will have a big shot at taking the checkers. The Andretti Green speedster was silent during the first week of practice, before making noise when it counted during qualifying. He's a patient and savvy driver, which is key to winning at Indy. If he stays out of trouble, he could score Indy 500 win No. 3.

 

Sam Hornish Jr. (+325) will be leaving the league to run in the NASCAR series next year, but before departing he'll be looking for his second Indy 500 victory as the oddsmakers’ third choice. The Chip Ganassi driver will start fifth and should get bettor's consideration at any track.

Tony Kanaan (+365) is the oddsmakers’ fourth choice. Kanaan has been fast all month. He's the hardest charger of the five Andretti Green cars. Expect Kanaan to lead a lot of laps and be there at the end.

Defending champion Scott Dixon (+380) is the oddsmakers’ fifth choice. Dixon is from Chip Ganassi Racing and will roll of fourth. Dixon set the top speed for the month and is the only driver to exceed the 227 mph mark. Dixon wants to be the lead horse in the Ganassi stable, so look for him to flex his muscles late in the race.

Andretti Green and Chip Ganassi drivers will be hard to beat as the clear-cut top-5 favorites. If you're looking for a bigger price, try Penske member Danica Patrick (+1500). If Patrick has a car that handles well in traffic, she'll be a threat starting from ninth.

When you do your research for this prop, don’t forget to follow the money.

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