The 22-year-old rookie was strong throughout the race and was edging his way forward, solidly in the top 15 and the top rookie until a late fuel stop dropped him down the order. Ultimately, he crossed the line in 22nd position.
After a steady start, the team led by veterans Mitch Davis and Andy Brown cycled Brabham up to speed.
During his third stint he advanced from 22nd up to 14th and remained around 15th until the late race pitstop. This was after being a lap behind at one stage before getting back on the lead lap when a yellow flag flew.
There were a number of caution periods throughout the course of the race for crashes and at one stage, a brief rain shower, however Brabham kept his calm and methodically worked his way through.
The #61 Chevrolet had developed a vibration that was becoming evident midway through the stints, Brabham noted some hairy moments, however kept control of the car to complete the race distance.
The Australian team realized the dream of PIRTEK Team Murray owner, Gold Coast motorsport entrepreneur Brett “Crusher” Murray to have his own car in the Indianapolis 500.
With backing from international hydraulic and industrial hose franchise, PIRTEK, PIRTEK Team Murray was able to compete in the 100th Indianapolis 500
The little Aussie team that could, did, and made a difference to the lives of true American heroes through its CK Crew and partnership with the Chris Kyle Frog Foundation.
QUOTES
“It is incredible to think that we finished this race, out there was a little surreal to be honest. It was an amazing experience to be in the 100th Indy 500 race and now I can say that I have finished the Indianapolis 500 and am the third generation of Brabham to do that.
“The PIRTEK Team Murray Chevrolet was good all day. During some of the stints it developed a vibration. In the middle of the race there, I was able to make up eight places which was a really great feeling.
“I’m happy that we got through and that we were able to put on a good show. I can’t thank the guys from PIRTEK, the Chris Kyle Frog Foundation, Speedcafe.com, all the other sponsors, our technical partner KV Racing Technology and of course ‘Crusher’ (Brett Murray) who has developed this phenomenal program that gave me the opportunity to be in this race.
“Let’s hope we can have an opportunity to do more again.”
TEAM OWNER - BRETT CRUSHER MURRAY“I think it a great relief really to have it all done, box ticked and Matt to be safe which is the biggest risk at this joint.
“The car’s in one piece, pitstops were great, the PIRTEK Team Murray boys did a great job. We had to roll the dice on the fuel at the end, which we did.
“Hopefully plenty of people took notice of the team and what Matt achieved and that someone will give him a shot.”
