NEWTON, Iowa -- Simon Pagenaud's worst-to-first run capped a wild opening night to IndyCar's doubleheader at Iowa Speedway.
The former series champion, who was unable to qualify because of a fuel pressure issue, managed to stretch his tires and take advantage of a unique pit strategy -- and a little bit of luck -- to get to the lead. Pagenaud then held off series leader Scott Dixon through the final laps Friday night to end Chip Ganassi Racing's four-race winning streak.
"I can't believe it. I have to rewatch the race. How did I get there?" asked Pagenaud, who also gave team owner Roger Penske his first IndyCar victory since purchasing the series late last year.