One Lap Away From His Dream | Pato O'Ward

On today’s show I jumped into the fast lane with IndyCar driver Pato O’Ward of Arrow McLaren, who explains dropping out of school to pursue racing, opens up on falling just short of his dream of winning the Indy 500, and why he now calls Indiana home. O’Ward grew up in Monterrey, moved to San Antonio at age 11 due to security concerns, attended a military-institute school, and traveled early for karting, with his dad attending every race. He describes running his brand and merch as a family operation, dropping out at 15 to chase a racing career with no plan B, and learning from setbacks. After winning the 2018 Indy Lights title, he faced lost rides, a failed Indy 500 qualification, a Red Bull/F1 path derailed by super license issues, and a stint in Japan before joining Arrow McLaren. O’Ward reflects on the emotional highs and heartbreak of nearly winning the Indy 500 in 2022, emphasizing timing, competition, and Indiana’s May traditions. If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. You are going to learn about: Pato O’Ward’s Upbringing in Mexico and Texas Why O’Ward Dropped Out of School How O’Ward Built His Brand With Family Thank you to our partners: Berne Apparel // https://bernedirect.com Jameson Camp // http://jamesoncamp.org Check out these great clips from the show: 00:00 No Plan B Mindset 01:21 Guest Introduction: Pato O’Ward, Arrow McLaren 02:15 Buying a Home in Indy 03:38 Neighbors and Four Seasons 05:47 From Mexico to Texas 07:07 Military School Lessons 08:48 Family Support and Travel 10:14 Fame Small Talk and Advice 12:56 Building the Pato Brand 15:32 Dropping Out to Race 17:55 Setbacks and Daytona Breakthrough 20:53 IndyCar and F1 Doors Slam 24:33 Japan Detour and Red Bull Exit 26:24 Finding a Seat at McLaren 28:29 Career High Points 29:07 Indy 500 Heartbreak 32:58 Chasing Perfect Timing 34:12 Why Indy Matters 35:33 From Overhyped to Goosebumps 39:09 Traditions and Fan Energy 41:57 Pitching the Indy 500 43:14 Adrenaline and Blue Angels 43:49 Indiana Home and Race Rituals 46:32 Life Off Track 48:20 Indiana Favorites and Food Takes http://getindiana.com/podcast Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. https://sweetwater.sjv.io/QyVDj3 Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up. https://sweetwater.sjv.io/QyVDj3