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Watch: Indy 500 pole driver survives fiery airborne crash

Indy 500 is an automobile race held annually at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Speedway.

New Zealand sitter Scott Dixon was knocked out of the Indianapolis 500 by a terrifying crash that saw his car fly over another car and land land atop the inside safety fence, where it split in two amid sparks and flames.

During the Indy 500 races, Dixon’s car was shredded by the retaining wall, but the tub of the car remained intact and the 2008 champion was able to climb out on his own to a roar from the crowd. He walked to a waiting ambulance while the race was placed under red flag and crews began to clean up debris scattered over hundreds of feet.

Incredible footage of the crash, posted on Twitter, shows the moment Jay Howard’s car bounced off a wall, skid and crashed into Scott Dixon’s vehicle, sending it airborne.

Oh my god it’s incredible that Scott Dixon is OK. pic.twitter.com/2nA1DRIIRo

— Nick Bromberg (@NickBromberg) May 28, 2017

Both drivers were checked and cleared by medical professionals after the crash. Notably, Dixon was one of the favourites to win his second Indy 500 this weekend. He had been fast through practice before landing on the pole. The crash occurred on Lap 54.

Following the accident, Dixon took to Twitter and thanked everybody for their prayers and wishes:

Thanx for all the messages. That was a wild ride. Bummed for #campingworld. Now onto the Championship.Congrats @TakumaSatoRacer so happy 4 u pic.twitter.com/zFd9Z3fX4Y

— Scott Dixon (@scottdixon9) May 28, 2017

Before the race, expressing his excitement, Dixon tweeted:

Good times today @ the #indy500parade, Biggest race in the world tomorrow #indy500 #campingworld #indycar #honda #oakley #cantstop #ims pic.twitter.com/RcFQjWOpge

— Scott Dixon (@scottdixon9) May 28, 2017

#carbday in the books! #campingworld car feels strong