Pato O’Ward Milks Cow Ahead of Indianapolis 500 Race

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Pato O’Ward of Mexico participated in a unique tradition this week, learning that Indianapolis 500 drivers must milk a cow if they wish to celebrate victory in the legendary race.

O’Ward’s chance to join this ritual finally came on Friday, one day after he expressed his disappointment about missing the opportunity during his previous Indy 500 debut in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Indiana Dairy Association and his Arrow McLaren team arranged for a cow named Rihanna from Silverstone Farms in Greenfield, Indiana, to be brought to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

“Woke up for some morning milking, and it was a really cool experience,” O’Ward said, beaming with excitement. “Very warm. You know, gotta warm her up. Yeah, she was fabulous. Did you see a video at least? You’ll see. First try.”

Indeed, O’Ward successfully milked Rihanna, signaling what he hopes will be a positive sign as he pursues his first win at the Indy 500. He has previously finished second in the race twice and has candidly shared how the Indianapolis Motor Speedway has often left him heartbroken in the past.

The inspiration for O’Ward’s belated milking came during a press conference on Thursday, where fellow driver Robert Shwartzman, who earned the pole position, shared his own milking experience. “The people who didn’t milk the cow, they never won the Indy 500,” Shwartzman said, further emphasizing the importance of participating in the tradition.

Shwartzman experienced milking a “very calm, cute” cow named Indy and noted its importance in securing victory. After hearing this, O’Ward reached out through social media, determined to find a cow and complete the tradition himself. “We know some farmers who know some cows who can make that happen,” he posted on X.

As the countdown to the Indianapolis 500 continues, O’Ward’s lighthearted participation in this tradition shows his determination and belief in the quirky rituals that surround one of the most prestigious races in motorsports.