INDY LIGHTS: Wheldon Continues His Speed In Preparation For Mexico

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

(Texas) – PacWest Indy Lights driver Daniel Wheldon continued to show speed while the team took another step forward in its pre-season development program during a one-day test in Texas on February 22.

Wheldon, who was pleased with the team’s progress, logged more that 195 miles under cold weather conditions and recorded a best lap time of 64.04. Joining Wheldon in the second PacWest lights car was Mark Hynes, the 1999 British F3 champion, who also logged significant miles, with a fast lap timed at 64.17.

Despite the inclement weather, the team - who had the only two cars on the course - was able to run a very productive test. Team manager, Paul (Ziggy) Harcus was pleased with the results and feels confident heading to Mexico for the Series opener.

The PacWest Indy Lights team will return to Indianapolis to begin final preparations for the first round of the 2001 Dayton Indy Lights Series at the new Fundidora Park road circuit in Monterrey, Mexico, on March 11.

DAN WHELDON - # 1 PACWEST INDY LIGHTS

“It was great to be back in the car,” said Wheldon. “The entire team worked very hard and it was a very productive day. I have continued to build a strong relationship with my engineer, which is good. I’m confident we’ll have a great car for Mexico, and I’m really looking forward to the start of the season.”

PAUL (“ZIGGY”) HARCUS – PACWEST INDY LIGHTS TEAM MANAGER

“It was very cold out there today, but the team was great and we got a lot of testing in,” said Harcus. “Dan’s confidence is strong and I am pleased with his progress. We learned a lot during our pre-season testing and we’re certain we’ll have a great car for Mexico.”

Text Provided By Jodi Graffio

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