Curt Cavin

curt.cavin@indystar.com

Question: Do we know that it is "official" that the pole for this year's Indianapolis 500 will be set on Sunday, May 18, and not Saturday as year's past? I can't find the definitive answer. (Jackson, South Bend, Ind.)

Answer: We don't have official word, but from the sources I have and the TV broadcast schedule that's been released, I can tell you that the pole will be determined on Sunday and most assuredly in the 1-3 p.m. time slot. It also seems clear the format will look dramatically different than in year's past, possibly with drivers required to qualify both days. We also don't know if there will be practice time added to the month, important because of the new IndyCar road course race on Saturday, May 10. The teams are really going to be taxed for a quick turnaround, and if qualifying is extended to Sunday, there won't be much time, if any, for race prep after qualifying. A news conference is expected to be Tuesday at 4 p.m., so maybe we'll get details on how this will work, but my guess is there are still many things to work through.

Question: Qualifying will be on ESPN3? I have about as much confidence in ESPN/ABC as I do the people that redesigned your blog. Seriously, it's easier to get insurance on healthcare.gov than trying to figure out where to post a question on your blog. And scanning through previous day's content? Well, at least your content remains great. (Eric, Alexandria, Va.)

Answer: Let's wait to evaluate the Indianapolis 500 television coverage until we see the plan. As for the racing blog, I recommend bookmarking the URL so you have it to check each day. It's https://www.indystar.com/blog/racingexpert

Question: Have any dates been released for preseason testing at Sebring? (Jay, Indian Harbour Beach, Fla.)

Answer: There are a couple sessions planned and likely another to come. But the big one coming up is Jan. 17 with all the Ganassi, Penske, KV and Carpenter drivers, plus the Panther driver if one is selected by then.

Question: Could you give us more info on Bill Simpson's youth football helmets? A phone number or web site to look at or order one? My son is in the eighth grade and is just starting to play football. I'd like more info. (Rick, Hobart, Ind.)

Answer: So, you've got a future Brickie! Check out the following website: sghelmets.com.