Jack Harvey drives in Indianapolis 500

Racing driver Jack Harvey is hoping for better fortune at this year’s Indianapolis 500 after securing qualification.

The 25-year-old Meyer Shank Racing member will start 31st on the grid at this weekend’s iconic race in the US.

Harvey, of Bassingham, made his debut at the event last year, but spun off after hitting debris on the 66th lap.

He said he was now a more experienced driver and had high hopes.

"First we want to see the chequered flag," Harvey said.

"It was disappointing not to finish last year because of reasons outside our control."

Harvey said the Indianapolis 500 was one of the most prestigious events in motorsport.

"This race is special to me — and it is where I first met Michael Shank and where our adventure together started," he said.

"It is special because of what the race represents to the motorsport world — the history of the race, the prestige of winning.

"Winning the 500 is one of the three biggest things you can achieve.

"What I was not aware of until I raced in the 500 was how the state of Indiana embraces (the event for) the entire month of May. It is not just about a single-race or a single-day event.

"That means there is almost a whole month of events and excitement."

Harvey’s position on the grid came after he successfully navigated a pressure-packed Bump Day.

Once rain cleared, Harvey delivered a strong second qualifying run with an average speed of 225.720mph — the 27th quickest lap of the 33-car field.

In official qualifying, he posted a four-lap average of 225.254mph.