Frankly Franchitti

Why is it that some sports can't get out of their own way?

Take, for instance, last Sunday‘s shortened Indianapolis 500 -- a race that ended in less than satisfactory fashion for everyone except those who took pleasure in seeing a rain-soaked Ashley Judd jumping up and down in celebration of husband Dario Franchitti's victory.

I don't know if Speedway president Tony George knows this, but there stands a good chance of rain in Indiana during the month of May. The 500 is the Indy Racing League's premier event, marking the rare occasion when most Americans don't think of NASCAR as the only motor car circuit that matters.

This year's edition also had its share of thrills -- and more lead changes than a typical Saturday at your local dirt track. But the powers-that-be need to do everything humanly possible to ensure a real finish.

Go to Monday if you have to, or better yet bring lights to the Speedway. That way, if stormy weather clears out late in the afternoon, a same-day finish is still possible. If it's good enough for tradition-laden cathedrals like Daytona and Wrigley Field, surely Indy can handle the adjustment.

Either way, the winner swigging a quart of milk -- arguably the greatest post-race scene in the world -- should take place in the winner‘s circle, not the garage.

Bryan Davis, Assistant Sports Editor