Guy Smith Tests for Bentley

GUY SMITH BEGINS BENTLEY TESTING



Briton Guy Smith begins his duties as official test driver for Team Bentley
with a three-day endurance test at the Paul Ricard Circuit in France this.
The 27 year old from Hull, who raced for the team at last year’s Le Mans 24
Hours, will not be racing for the team in the 2002 event following the teams
’ decision to run just one car.  He has however been retained as test and
development driver.

Guy had previously planned to take part in this year’s race with the Jim
Matthews Racing Riley & Scott, however his role as reserve driver for Team
Bentley will prevent his participation in the event, which takes place on
June 15th /16th.

“Obviously I’m very disappointed not be racing in this year’s Le Mans,
either for Bentley or Jim Matthews, but in the circumstances I feel the
testing role I’ve been asked to undertake for Team Bentley must be my
priority.  I’m sure that the reliability already proven by the Riley & Scott
would have enabled us to have a very strong finish in the race.  Now
however, my position within the Bentley team requires me to be present at
the event for them and that is what my decision has been based on,” said
Guy.

Guy travelled to Paul Ricard over the weekend for three days of testing at
the French circuit beginning on Monday, where extensive endurance testing
will be carried out prior to the classic sportscar event.

Ref: GS0024
22nd April 2002


Editors note:  Further information and photographs are available from the
official Guy Smith website at www.guysmith.com <http://www.guysmith.com/> .


For media information:    Cathy Metcalfe, MPR Associates, The Bothy,
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Tel:  +44 (0) 1327 352199 Fax: +44 (0) 1327 352908
E-mail: cathy.metcalfe@btinternet.com <mailto:cathy.metcalfe@btinternet.com>