The opening day of Verizon IndyCar Series practice was led by Verizon Team Penske driver Will Power, setting a lap quicker than the previous track record with a time of 1:04.1962. Power's lap was set in the first half of the session, prior to a brief downpour bringing a premature halt to meaningful running in the second practice session

This morning's first practice session concluded with Scott Dixon at the helm, beginning the sendoff to long-time Chip Ganassi Racing sponsor Target in style. Dixon's lap of 1:04.4491 was one tenth of a second faster than Power's best effort. The session was interrupted by a brief off by Conor Daly, who made light contact with the barriers and damaged his front wing.

The biggest surprise of the day was the performance of two rookies making their IndyCar debuts at Mid-Ohio. 2015 Indy Lights Presented by Cooper Tires champion Spencer Pigot was eighth for Ed Carpenter Racing, marking one of his finest performances in his partial-season campaign. RC Enerson, making his debut in the series for Dale Coyne Racing, went one better, posting the seventh fastest time in the second practice session.

The third practice session is set for 9:45 a.m. ET. Weather conditions remain a question mark for tomorrow, with rain in the forecast.

Mid-Ohio