CART: Gidley and Junqueira ready for challenging four-mile circuit

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

August 16, 2001

Elkhart Lake, Wis. - Team Target drivers Bruno Junqueira and Memo Gidley are gearing up this week for the Motorola 220 at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wis. Road America is a favorite among many of the CART FedEx Series drivers, and that group includes Junqueira and Gidley. The blend of high-speed corners and elevation changes makes for a scenic, yet challenging layout. Since 1990, Team Target has enjoyed great success at Road America, recording 11 top-10 finishes, four podium finishes and one victory (Alex Zanardi in 1997).

Last year, Gidley had a "Memo-rable" run there, recording his then career-high sixth-place finish. It was a race where the American began to show that he could compete with the best drivers in the world. Gidley is hoping for an even better result in this year's event.

"Last year at Road America was a turning point in my career," Gidley said. "I started the race in 18th place and steadily moved my way through the field to where I finally ended up in sixth. That race proved to me that I could race and beat the best the series had to offer. It felt like we had won the race and it was a real confidence booster for me. I really like the high-speed corners and elevation changes that track has to offer. So far this year, we've had an opportunity to win three of our six races. I think we're overdue for a win."

Before the season started, rookie Junqueira was asked which track he was most looking forward to racing on this season. The 24-year old Brazilian responded without hesitation, "Road America. I like the rolling corners and changes in elevation. It's just like the Formula 1 tracks I've raced on in the past."

Junqueira participated in the rookie testing session at the 4.048-mile road course in July and feels confident going into this weekend's race. "Our test session went pretty well there last month," Junqueira said. "We learned a lot about car setups, gearing and fuel mileage. Of course, I was also able to learn the track and find my braking and acceleration points. For most of this season, it was difficult for me going to these tracks that I've never seen before. This week, we are a lot further along because of that test. I think we have an excellent chance to score our first win of the season this week."

Team Target Managing Director Mike Hull is hoping that Junqueira's Road America test and Gidley's performance last year will propel his team to a strong performance this weekend.

"Bruno had a very successful test here last month," Hull said. "We were able to turn a lot of laps, which should really help him this weekend. Our baseline setup for the car should be pretty good when we hit the track on Friday. Memo's performance last year really speaks for itself. The guy turned in an outstanding performance there in 2000 and we're hoping for an even better result this time around. Team Target is hungry for a victory this week."

The Motorola 220 airs live on ESPN this Sunday at 1 p.m. EST.

Text provided by Brian Zepp

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