Johnson ready to make the most of Indy 500 debut

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Jimmie Johnson was pulled tight by Indianapolis 500 great Dario Franchitti for some last-second encouragement.

Johnson then worked the rope surrounding his car — mobbed with fans, friends and family like no other driver — and hugged and high-fived everyone he could reach. His old NASCAR crew chief Chad Knaus watched from nearby. So did NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Jarrett.

Then came Johnson’s girls. The family that Johnson passionately persuaded to let him chase his boyhood dream and race the Indy 500 couldn’t let him go. Johnson’s two young daughters squeezed hard when they threw their arms around his waist and shoulders.

But daddy had to race.

With that, the seven-time NASCAR champion and one of the greatest drivers in auto racing history strapped on his helmet and slipped inside the 48 car, ready for his rookie race at Indy at 46 years old.

Johnson started 12th Sunday as he tried to join A. J. Foyt and Mario Andretti as the only drivers to win both the Indianapolis 500 and the Daytona 500. Andretti and Tony Stewart, members of Johnson’s former NASCAR team and even his dad, who worked the race as Johnson’s spotter, all sent video messages of support.

“I wish I had some advice to you that would be useful but you know what to do,” Andretti said.

Johnson walked out to driver introductions hand-in-hand with his two young daughters, Lydia and Evie. Johnson's ovation from roughly 300,000 fans was topped only by the one for four-time Indy 500 champ Helio Castroneves.

Johnson’s wife, Chani, joined the family at the 48 car. Franchitti, the three-time Indy 500 champion, served as Johnson’s driving coach at Chip Ganassi Racing and appeared emotional as he hugged Johnson.

Johnson flashed a thumbs-up for a final