An exclusive celebration marked the launch of Indy 500 race weekend, honouring trailblazing driver Katherine Legge. The vibrant event, a collaboration between PEOPLE magazine and e.l.f. Cosmetics, took place in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 22. Significantly, Legge is the only female driver in this year’s Indy 500.
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Katherine Legge, 45, is gearing up not only to compete in the iconic Indy 500 but also to make history as the first woman to attempt “The Double.” This monumental feat involves racing both the Indy 500 and NASCAR’s Charlotte Coca-Cola 600 on the same day, a demanding total of 1,100 miles, on May 24. She will be driving the No. 11 e.l.f. Cosmetics Chevrolet during the Indy 500 and will switch to the No. 78 e.l.f. Cosmetics Chevrolet for the Coca-Cola 600 later that day.
The kick-off celebration was held at Dusk Lounge and drew an enthusiastic crowd, including notable personalities from the upcoming series “Tell Me Lies” and cheerleaders from the Indianapolis Colts. The party was hosted by PEOPLE’s Janine Rubenstein, who created a lively atmosphere inspired by racing culture. Attendees enjoyed several themed activities, from photo opportunities designed around Legge’s pink-and-chrome car to signature cocktails celebrating the occasion.
DJ Mae kept spirits high by spinning tracks from e.l.f. Cosmetics’ “Get Ready With Me” album, creating an electrifying feel that resonated with racing enthusiasts. The event included displays of memorabilia that celebrated Legge’s remarkable career, featuring items such as her INDYCAR helmet for 2024, her 2023 Indy 500 credential, and a symbolic starter’s ring that commemorated her achievement as the fastest woman in Indy 500 history, boasting a four-lap average speed of 231.070 mph.
Among the guests were Patrick O’Keefe, Chief Integrated Marketing Officer of e.l.f. Cosmetics, and Janine Rubenstein, who both took the stage to applaud Legge’s accomplishments. Following their remarks, Legge addressed the audience, delivering an empowering message that resonated deeply with those in attendance.
During her speech, Legge expressed gratitude towards PEOPLE and e.l.f. Cosmetics for their support over the years. “They have created a movement in racing that promotes solidarity and girl power,” she remarked. Highlighting the importance of representation, she stated that female drivers now feel acknowledged and valued within the racing community.
Legge’s enthusiasm for the upcoming races was evident as she celebrated the opportunities presented to her. She concluded her speech with an optimistic vision for the future: “I hope the visibility that we create allows more women to break into racing. The sight of young girls wearing e.l.f. jerseys this weekend is a reminder that they can aspire to be anything they wish.”
Reflecting on the event, Rubenstein shared her thoughts on the experience, noting her initial nerves but how they evaporated once she saw the excitement in the room. “It was amazing to witness how everyone came together to celebrate Katherine’s journey,” she recalled.
Rubenstein found particular significance in a moment shared with racing pioneer Lyn St. James, one of the first women to compete in the Indy 500. “When she thanked PEOPLE for supporting female drivers, I felt truly moved. It highlighted just how important it is to support trailblazers in this space,” she said.
This gathering not only celebrated Katherine Legge’s remarkable career but also marked a significant moment in the ongoing evolution of women’s representation in motorsport. As the Indy 500 weekend approaches, all eyes will be on Legge as she aims to etch her name into the history books.