INDIANAPOLIS -- Thousands of people braved chilly temperatures and brisk winds Saturday on Pole Day for the Indianapolis 500.

Spectators wore coats and blankets, but the excitement level among race fans was high as fast cars rushed by on the track, 6News' Sarah Cornell reported.

"There are so many people out here that you can just feel the adrenaline rushing," said race fan Stewart Davidson.

The weather didn't seem to dampen enthusiasm, and the economy didn't seem to affect vendor sales.

Susie Packard, co-owner of Brew Crew, the largest third-party vendor at the speedway, said sales so far are better than she expected.

"I think that even with the economy the way it is, the one thing about race car fans … when people want to spend on a luxury, this is what they do," she said.

Danny and Donna Johnson come to Pole Day ever year with coolers packed full of beer to help offset the cost at the speedway.

"It's a pretty inexpensive day for entertainment for Indianapolis," Danny Johnson said.

"We bring our own drinks just because that is cheaper than buying out here," said Chris Fleck.

Others said they were more than willing to pay the price at the speedway, saying that when it comes to tradition, money is no object.

"I didn't even think of the economy or money. It's Pole Day. It's a tradition," said Scott Christensen. "I drove up from Cincinnati. I don't care what it costs."