The Borg-Warner Trophy: How The Indy 500 Handles Its Full Roster Of Winners.

David

3 min read

Post on May 26, 2025

4.1

Share

The Borg-Warner Trophy: Honoring Indy 500 Legends, One Face at a Time

The Indianapolis 500, the most prestigious race in the world, is known for its speed, drama, and history. But beyond the checkered flag and the roar of the engines lies a truly unique tradition: the Borg-Warner Trophy. This stunning, 5-foot-tall sterling silver masterpiece doesn't just commemorate the winner; it showcases the full roster of Indianapolis 500 champions, a testament to the race's enduring legacy. But how does this iconic trophy manage to accommodate a growing list of winners year after year? Let's delve into the fascinating process.

The Borg-Warner Trophy, first awarded in 1936, is more than just a trophy; it's a rolling history book of the Indy 500. Each year, the winner's likeness is meticulously sculpted and added to the already impressive collection of bas-reliefs. This continuous addition presents a logistical challenge, requiring careful planning and execution.

The Art of Adding a Champion

The process of adding a new face to the Borg-Warner Trophy is a fascinating blend of artistry and precision. Highly skilled artisans at the BorgWarner facility work diligently to capture the essence of each winner's unique features and personality. This isn't a simple process of adding a photograph; it involves:

• Detailed Modeling: The process begins with creating a detailed three-dimensional model of the winner's face, often utilizing high-resolution photographs and sometimes even working from life.
• Sculpting in Sterling Silver: Once the model is approved, the artisan meticulously sculpts the bas-relief directly onto the trophy's surface. This requires immense skill and attention to detail, given the precious metal and the existing artwork.
• Polishing and Refinement: After sculpting, the new bas-relief undergoes a rigorous polishing process to ensure a flawless finish that matches the existing sections.

This intricate process is a testament to the enduring value placed on the history and tradition of the Indy 500. Each addition isn't just a simple update; it's a careful and respectful act of honoring a champion.

Managing the Growing Legacy

With over 90 years of winners, the Borg-Warner Trophy's base has grown considerably over time. While the original design didn't account for this continuous expansion, the trophy's structure has been cleverly adapted to accommodate new additions. This involves careful planning and a commitment to preserving the integrity of the original design. This is a delicate balance between celebrating new champions and maintaining the overall aesthetic beauty and historical significance of the trophy.

Beyond the Bas-Reliefs: The Full Experience

The Borg-Warner Trophy isn't just about the faces; it's a complete experience. Visitors to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum can witness its grandeur firsthand. They can also explore the rich history of the race, learning about the legendary drivers and their incredible accomplishments. This provides a unique opportunity to connect with the legacy of the Indy 500 on a deeper level.

The Future of the Trophy

The tradition of adding a new bas-relief to the Borg-Warner Trophy each year continues. This ensures that the rich history of the Indianapolis 500 is preserved and celebrated for generations to come. As new champions are crowned, the trophy will continue to grow, a powerful symbol of the race’s enduring legacy and the extraordinary achievements of its winners.

The Borg-Warner Trophy stands as more than just an award; it's a living monument to the spirit of competition, the thrill of victory, and the enduring legacy of the Indianapolis 500. It is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and the enduring celebration of motorsport history. Plan your visit to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum to witness this remarkable piece of history for yourself.