Lloyd in pink, hints at more.

There will be no missing Alex Lloyd as the Briton attempts to make his second IndyCar start - and second at the Indianapolis 500 - this month, after he turned out for his refresher in the bright pink HER-backed #99 Dallara.

The 2007 Indy Pro Series champion returns to the bosom of Sam Schmidt Motorsports, with the assistance of mentors Chip Ganassi Racing, for his second crack at the blue riband event, but attracted attention more for his appearance than his presence at the Brickyard as rookie orientation and veteran refresher laps got under way on Tuesday.

The HER Energy brand's partnership with Schmidt and Ganassi has resulted in a vivid hue for the #99 but, a few ironic wolf whistles aside, the entirely pink-clad Lloyd has received a positive reaction to his return.

"It's a real pleasure to have HER Energy as our sponsor - it's an exciting brand and one I am very much looking forward to representing," he said, with his best PR hat on, "HER Energy has seen massive growth over the last year, and I look forward to helping them grow their brand even more. Plus, with having a pink car and firesuit, no one will be able to miss me. I look forward to a great month."

With only last year's ill-fated rookie appearance with a joint Ganassi/Rahal Letterman effort under his belt, the Isle of Man native is hoping for better things from 2009 - and possibly a few more outings as he continues to warm the bench he has occupied since taking his 2007 crown.

That remains a possibility, according to HER CEO Brett Jacobson, who approached the Ganassi team about a partnership last year, and was offered the chance to subsidisze Lloyd's programme for May.

"HER is honoured to be involved with two prestigious racing organisations," he admitted, "Both Chip and Sam are pioneers in the world of motorsports, and their eye for talent over the past two decades is unprecedented.

"It all came together at the right time, with all the right players. When those things naturally occur, those are the best opportunities you have. This is really step one as part of a much bigger programme going forward with Chip Ganassi Racing and with Alex and Sam Schmidt. We're excited about it and looking forward to the future."

Lloyd was the fastest rookie on track at last year's 500, and has revitalised Schmidt, who believes that his eponymous outfit may have a chance of success in 2009.

"This is the first time in four years that I think Sam Schmidt Motorsports will have a really competitive entry - and we have HER Energy to thank for that support," the former racer noted, "Chip Ganassi Racing has prepared an incredible car, and we're very excited to be running Alex again since we had so much success with him in 2007."

In addition to its on-track activity this month, HER Energy will kick off race weekend with a 'pink carpet' event to benefit the Indianapolis chapter of the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Foundation on Friday 22 May.