usgp tix: a buyers market

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Local ticket dealers are getting face value after charging 3 times as much 6 months ago.

By Robin Miller

Indianapolis Star

September 19, 2000

Sunday's inaugural SAP U.S. Grand Prix at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway may be a sellout, but that doesn't mean there aren't tickets available. On the contrary, the Indianapolis Star's classified section is filled with sellers and local ticket brokers who are offering seats for face value.

Six months ago, local brokers were getting three and four times face value. Today, they are going for the amount listed on the ticket.

"We're getting a lot of phone calls, but everyone is trying to sell, not buy,'' said Don Carnahan of MCS Tickets on West 10th Street. "There was a run on F-1 tickets a few months ago, but just like this year's Brickyard 400, the bottom has fallen out of the market.

"Maybe there's just too much racing at the track now.'' Carnahan said anybody desiring to see Michael Schumacher and Co. only needs to pick up the phone.

"We've got some of the best seats in the house, high in the North Vista and J Stand, and we're asking face value,'' he said.

Last month, for the first time since NASCAR began racing in Indianapolis in 1994, fans were able to purchase Brickyard tickets for under face value on race morning.

Carnahan says he expects the same thing this weekend.

"Right now, people are lucky to get $60 for an $85 ticket. So I imagine there will be some bargains on Sunday morning.''

Unlike most F-1 races, Indy is reasonably priced. There are $30 general admission tickets, $75 and $85 seats in the turns all the way up to E Penthouse, and Visa decks at $140.