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Every May, there are two races at Indianapolis: one for pole position and the other, of course, the race itself.

Helio Castroneves won the pole on May 12 in exciting fashion when fellow Brazilian Tony Kanaan failed by less than one second to beat his time.

That may sound like a lot, but we're talking four laps, or 10 miles. Remember, this is Indy. No single-lap qualifying here.

Here are my favorites:

Helio Castroneves: His pole position was unexpected. Team Penske has been off the pace early this season. But never count the Captain out at Indy. Castroneves will be going for his third 500.

Tony Kanaan: Twice I've picked him to drink milk, and twice he's let me down. Will I pick him a third time?

Dario Franchitti: It would be great to see the Scotsman win at Indy. Then we'd get to see his wife, Ashley Judd, in victory lane.

Scott Dixon: It's teammate Dan Wheldon that most experts are picking to win. But Dixon could surprise.

Sam Hornish Jr.: The defending champ will have a tough time repeating. But don't count him out.

Dan Wheldon: He's become the overwhelming favorite despite a lackluster qualifying effort. He probably feels the Brickyard owes him one since he led almost 150 laps last year but only finished fourth after a flat tire.

And Albuquerque's Al Unser Jr.?

He has 10 Top 10 finishes in 18 starts. Another Top 10 finish is a possibility. But a win? Not likely.

Surprises?

Danica Patrick has been quietly fast all month. She seems very focused.

Either Michael or Marco Andretti could shock the field. But I think they're both long shots.

I think Tomas Scheckter has the best chance to pull off a surprise. His Vision Racing team has shown the most improvement over the past year.

But, when the checkered flag drops Sunday, I think it will be Wheldon sipping the milk in victory lane. Call this a payback for last year.