SunTrust Indy Challenge

The SunTrust Indy Challenge was an IndyCar Series race held at Richmond International Raceway in Richmond, Virginia. From 2001-2009. From 2001-2007, the race was scheduled for 250 laps (187.5 miles). Starting in 2008, the race was extended to 300 laps.

The event debuted as a Saturday night race in 2001. The event has become one of the more popular races on the schedule, and has become the most successful race to date held in traditionally "NASCAR Country". The race harkens back to the classic short track "bull ring" style of racing known for during the AAA and USAC eras of Indy car racing.

ISC traditionally paired the race with other open-wheeled racing. The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour once accompanied the race, but in later years USAC open-wheel short track racing had been on the undercard.

AAA held two National Championship sprint car races at the track when it was still a half-mile dirt track under the name Strawberry Hill Speedway. Later, NASCAR sanctioned two Championship Car events at nearby Martinsville Speedway in 1952 and 1953.

On July 30, 2009, RIR track President Doug Fritz announced that the Suntrust Indy Challenge would not be on the 2010 IndyCar Series schedule. The costs to put the event on and possible loss of sponsorship was cited as the reason for the IRL and RIR to not come to an agreement on the event.

Past winners

 * 2003: Race shortened due to rain.