FORT WAYNE, Ind. — A cherished Indianapolis 500 tradition is getting a fresh, historic twist this year as two women dairy farmers take center stage for the iconic Victory Lane milk presentation — a role that has symbolized Hoosier pride and agricultural roots for nearly two decades.
A Tradition with a Twist
For only the second time in race history, both the veteran and rookie milk presenters are women, underscoring not only the evolving face of agriculture in Indiana but also the growing role of women in leadership across the dairy industry.
The honor goes to Abbie Herr, owner of Herr Dairy in Kendallville, who will serve as the Veteran Milk Presenter, and Ashley Stockwell of Stockwell Farms in Hudson, who takes on the role of Rookie Presenter.
“I’m so happy to be on the world stage and representing the dairy farm families across the state of Indiana,” said Herr.
Legacy in a Glass Bottle
For Herr, this moment is more than ceremonial — it’s personal. She represents the fourth generation of her family to run Herr Dairy, where the values of hard work, community, and tradition flow as steadily as the milk they produce.
“Milk runs through my veins,” she says proudly.
Her task on race day? To hand the winning driver their bottle of milk — a deeply symbolic gesture that has defined the post-race celebration at Indy since 1936, when Louis Meyer requested buttermilk to cool off after his third win.
A New Voice in the Paddock
Joining Herr is rookie presenter Ashley Stockwell, who says standing beside a fellow female farmer for such a visible moment is both empowering and inspiring.
Together, Herr and Stockwell represent a new chapter in Indiana dairy history — one where women are increasingly seen not just as contributors, but as leaders.
“We’re making history,” said Stockwell. “And we hope it encourages other dairy farmers — especially young women — to get involved.”
Milk, Motorsports & Meaning
The dairy tradition at the Indianapolis 500 is curated by the American Dairy Association Indiana, which selects presenters annually from among the state’s many family-owned farms.
The milk choice isn’t random: each Indy 500 driver submits their preferred variety ahead of time — whole, 2%, or skim — a quirky but beloved detail that adds charm to the pomp.
This year’s Indy 500 will take place on Sunday, May 25, and as always, when the checkered flag drops, all eyes will be on Victory Lane — and on two proud women carrying a bottle of milk and the legacy of Indiana dairy with it.
