A survey commissioned by the Indy Racing League shows the
inaugural Indy 200 at Walt Disney World was "a hit" with fans.
Ninety percent of the 494 people surveyed in exit interviews
answered "yes" when asked if they enjoyed the "race experience."
IRL Exec Dir Jack Long said the results were the highest he has
ever seen, adding, "Generally, the highest you see is 65-70
percent." Fifty-six percent classified themselves as "avid" race
fans and 68% rated the race quality as "high." Seventy-two
percent said they definitely plan to return for next year's race,
and another 10% said they would if they could fit it in their
schedule. The survey audience had 18% from the metro Orlando
area, 32% from elsewhere in FL, and 49% from out of state. The
poll was conducted by the Sports Research Division of the
Behavior Research Center in Phoenix, AZ. Behavior Research Chair
Earl de Berge said a "very important" note from the poll was that
56% of those interviewed considered themselves avid race fans,
indicating the race drew, and was appreciated by, those who
support auto racing (IRL).
