1 . In the early twentieth century, a group of investors led by Carl Fisher bought a large piece of land in rural Indiana and built a track on it for testing cars. In 1909, the owner held car races on the track, which became known as the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Three years later, a 500-mile race was held there for the first time. This was the first Indianapolis 500, a race that is still run each year at the same location on America's Memorial Day.

Each year, between 200, 000 and 30. 0000 people attend the race. Many of them arrive Several days before the race begins. On land surrounding the track, they set up their tents or park their RVs, which are like traveling homes. By staying at the track, they are able to attend all of the activities that go into the Indianapolis 500 weekend.

On Memorial Day, the grandstands of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway are buzzing with excitement. People find their seats, fanning themselves against the harsh heat and marvel at the huge black oval track below. Moments later, a fleet of IndyCars rolls onto the track, arranging themselves in 11 neat rows of three. The growl of 33 revving engines rings in everyone's ears. The giant crowd cheers with one voice as the powerful cars take off from the starting line.

IndyCars are uniform (一致的) in their design. During a race, they reach speeds of over 260 kilometers per hour. Since the drivers must race for 500 miles, the race is quite long, lasting three to five hours. The resulting wear and tear (磨损) on each car is managed with pit stops. Despite safety measures, crashes take place during the race. Fortunately, they aren't often fatal.

1. How does the writer begin this article?

A．By tracing the origins of a competition.

B．By discussing the importance of a company.

C．By identifying the features of a vehicle.

D．By explaining the role of manufacturers.

2. What are people in the seats trying to do as they admire the track?

A．Keep themselves cool.

B．Manage their businesses.

C．Arrange their next vacation.

D．Satisfy their hunger and thirst.

3. What does the article point out about the vehicles?

A．How many years they usually last.

B．How much their weight has increased.

C．How fast they're capable of going.

D．How often their prices are discounted.

4. What does the article imply about participants in the event?

A．They've broken laws on numerous occasions.

B．They seldom show respect for one another.

C．They're often unable to secure financial support.

D．They're taking part in a dangerous activity.