INDIANAPOLIS -- The fastest rookie, Hedeki Mutoh, and this year's other rookies were honored Tuesday in the 34th annual Fastest Rookie Luncheon.

"I knew I could be fastest rookie," Mutoh said. "Now, I am it. I'm really happy to be here."

Most of this year's rookies came from the unification of IndyCar with the Champ Car series.

Each has already gotten special experiences being a part of the month-long run-up to the Indianapolis 500.

"It's a long month. It definitely tests your patience," said Justin Wilson. "We just want to get started, want to get in a car and let that green flag drop."

"Overall, it's been pretty good," said Graham Rahal. "For ourselves, we've been pretty competitive."

Rookie Alex Lloyd had a great season last year as Indy Lights champion. He'll drive in his first IndyCar race on Sunday.

"I've always watched from the outside and wanted to get involved," Lloyd said. "In the next few days, it's truly going to set in."