David Letterman appears as pit road reporter

In 1971, David Letterman made his first nationally televised appearance as a pit road reporter for ABC Sports' tape-delayed coverage of the prestigious Indianapolis 500. This event marked a significant milestone in Letterman's career, showcasing his early talent in sports reporting. At the time, WLWI served as the local ABC affiliate, providing coverage of this iconic race. During the broadcast, Letterman was initially introduced incorrectly as Chris Economaki, a well-known motorsports journalist. However, this mistake was rectified by Jim McKay, who announced Letterman's name correctly at the end of the interview. One of the highlights of Letterman's segment was his interview with racing legend Mario Andretti, who had just experienced a crash during the race. This moment not only highlighted Letterman's ability to engage with high-profile athletes but also set the stage for his future career in television, where he would become a household name. The Indianapolis 500 remains one of the most celebrated events in motorsports, and Letterman's early involvement in the coverage is a testament to his diverse talents and adaptability in the entertainment industry.