Will Power finished IndyCar’s inaugural Markham event on the final step of the podium after having started from the 25th and final position.
The veteran suffered a damaging crash in practice, then spun in qualifying, and finally had to take a new engine ahead of Sunday’s race.
Each event set him back further, and Power thought there was no way he could work his way all the way to the front at the end of 90 laps.
A chaotic race with multiple cautions helped give him a chance, however, and he credited Andretti Team Principal and long-time colleague Ron Ruzewski for the strategy.
“I think the strategy we did was correct for us,” said Power. “Just didn’t quite have the pace ’cause I had that many more laps on my tires.
“I really hustled to make track position. Kind of hurt my tires early. Tried to conserve. But that was, man, good day. Good day.
“Obviously it would be nice to get a win, but I keep getting podiums. That’s all we’re looking for, really good race pace, good strategies and everything.
“Ron Ruzewski usually puts me in the best spot. He did it again today. He told me, ‘What bonus do I get you if you get on the podium?’ I’m thinking it is impossible.
“I said, ‘Whatever you want.’ He’s done that many times in my career. Goal is top three today. I’m like, ‘There’s no way, dude.’ We end up there (smiling).
“He does a very good job. Very good job on the stand.”
Power has now earned four podiums in his debut season with Andretti Global, and sits 11th in the points.
His results have been on an upward trajectory in recent races, owing to the growing comfort level with his new team.
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