St. James continues to challenge stereotypes.(Knight Ridder Newspapers)

INDIANAPOLIS Three days before the Indy 500 had its first field with two female drivers among the 33 starters, Mario Andretti opened his mouth.

Out came proof that old racing stereotypes die hard.

``(Women) are testing themselves in what is determined as a man's sport, and they've carved a little bit of a place for them,'' Andretti said.

``But they've never proven that they can be competitive yet. I mean competitive, I'm talking about winning. I'm not talking about second or third winning. And until they win, they're not a factor. It's that simple.''

Coming from a man who was 1 for 29 in winning the Indy 500, there's both reason to listen …