Andretti back at Indianapolis

Andretti, currently driving for Team Green in Champ Cars, last raced at the legendary track in 1995. He has never won the Indy 500 in his 11 attempts, but was back testing at the circuit as he continues with preparations for his return to the Brickyard, where the IRL hosts the world famous race on May 27.

"It's a little bumpier in Turns 1 and 2," said Andretti. "Other than that it's the same. It's funny how your memory works and reflects back when you actually feel it.

"I still feel like I have a little unfinished business here. Would I be going through all this work if I'd won this race in the past? Probably not. But something is driving me."

However strong winds hampered Andretti's progress as he got to grips with the Dallara-Oldsmobile he's entered to drive in the race.

"It was so blustery," he said. "One lap it's OK. The next lap, 'whoa!'"

Despite the conditions, Andretti still managed to clock a speed of 217.7mph and completed 30 laps of the 2.5-mile oval. Seven other Indy 500 entrants were also at the track, including Ganassi Racing's Nicolas Minassian. The French rookie was pleased with his day's testing, but feels he's on a steep learning curve as he prepares for the 85th Indy 500.

"We wound up as quick as Andretti and those guys," he said. "We improved the car all day, progressed all day long. The more you drive, the more confidence you get. I've a pretty good idea where to turn, but I'm still learning."