Buzz Calkins (born May 2, 1971 in Denver) was a former Indy Racing League driver. He won the series' inaugural race in 1996 at the Walt Disney World Speedway and was that year's league co-champion with Scott Sharp. He competed in the Indianapolis 500 six times, with a best finish of 10th in 1998. He drove until 2001 when he retired and ventured into the business world. May 2 is the 122nd day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (123rd in leap years). ... 1971 (MCMLXXI) is a common year starting on Friday (click for link to calendar). ... This article refers to the state capital of Colorado. ... Indy Racing League Logo The Indy Racing League, better known as IRL, is the promoter of a predominantly oval based open-wheel racing series in the United States and, more recently, Japan. ... Cinderella Castle, at the center of the Magic Kingdom, is Walt Disney World Resorts most recognizable icon Introduction Owned and operated by The Walt Disney Company, the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, USA is home to four theme parks, two water parks, several resort hotels and golf courses... Scott Sharp (born February 14, 1968 in Norwalk, Connecticut) is an American race car driver in the Indy Racing League. ... Indianapolis 500, 1994 The Indianapolis 500-Mile Race, frequently shortened to Indianapolis 500 or Indy 500, is an American race for open-wheel automobiles held annually over the Memorial Day weekend at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana. ... 1998 (MCMXCVIII) is a common year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar, and was designated the International Year of the Ocean. ...
Calkins suffered only two DNF's during the season, only one of which was mechanical.
The family aspects of Calkins' ride ensures his retention as a driver, but it also diminishes the effects of being on a "hot seat" and using performance to preserve your ride.
Calkins is well liked by fans and fellow competitors, but racing is not a personality contest.