Why couldn't you get the Detroit races? They were both on ABC.
Wasn't qualifying for the INDY 500 on ESPN or ESPN2? Both channels have been around for about 30 years. I know I watched it, and the only other ESPN channels I can think of are ESPNU, ESPN Classic, ESPN News, and ESPN Deportes, and it wasn't on any of those channels.
I think the IndyCar Series has the best TV package right now then I can ever remember. I think qualifying for everything except the Indy 500 is on NBC Sports, and all the races are either on NBC Sports or ABC.