way through the fields after sustaining some damage in the Russo crash, eventually taking second. Flaherty had built up such a lead that he was able to make his last pit stop and remain in front. He crossed the finish line with Hanks the only other car on the lead lap. The only real change in the top cars toward the end was both O'Connor and Jim Rathmann having to drop back with mechanical problems while both drivers were in the top 5. Box score Notes – 1 point for fastest lead lap Alternates First alternate: Eddie Sachs (#58) Failed to Qualify Jay Abney (#87) George Amick (#33) - Entry declined, failed physical Johnny Baldwin (R) (#91) Tony Bonadies (#25) Buddy Cagle (#81) - Wrecked rookie test Bill Cheesbourg (#84, #87) Jimmy Davies (#31) Len Duncan (#51) Edgar Elder (#41) - Did not finish rookie test Giuseppe Farina (#9) Elmer George (#78) Johnny Kay (#35) Danny Kladis (#91) Mike Magill (#74) Ernie McCoy Jim McWithey (#77) Earl Motter (#9, #41) Duke Nalon (#31) Roy Newman (#74) Cal Niday Marvin Pifer (#75) Dickie Reese (#87) Eddie Russo (#10, #27, #33) Gig Stephens (#85) Len Sutton (#62) Marshall Teague (#3, #47) Shorty Templeman (#46) Leroy Warriner (#93) Chuck Weyant (#22) Dempsey Wilson (#22, #79) Race notes Pole position: Pat Flaherty – 4:07.26 (time over four laps) Fastest Lead Lap: Paul Russo – 1:02.32 Shared Drive: Car# 10: Ed Elisian 123 laps and Eddie Russo 37 laps Race winner Pat Flaherty was the last driver to win the 500 wearing a t-shirt. All subsequent winners have worn flame retardant uniforms. Broadcasting Radio The race was carried live on the IMS Radio Network. Sid Collins served as chief announcer. The broadcast was carried by over 280 affiliates, as well as Armed Forces Radio. The broadcast came on-air at 10:45 a.m. local time, fifteen minutes prior to the start of the race. This was the final broadcast based out of the old wooden Pagoda, which was demolished after the race. This was also the final year to have only two turn reporters ("south turns" and "north turns"). Beginning in 1957, the crew would be expanded to have one reporter in each of the four turns. Championship standings after the race World Drivers' Championship standings Note: Only the top five positions are included. See also 1956 USAC Championship Car season Gallery References External links Indianapolis 500