Qualifying For Race 2 Complete At New Jersey: NWR Drviers Start 4th and 6th

Millville, June 13, 2009: Atlantic Championship qualifying for the second race of the doubleheader weekend at the Mazda Formula X presented by Cooper Tires at New Jersey Motorsports Park was completed this morning. Newman Wachs Racing drivers Markus Niemela and John Edwards will start 4th and 6th, respectively, for tomorrow’s (Sunday) race. Both races will air LIVE on HD net at 3:05 ET.

This was the first time drivers had an opportunity to run full stints in the dry since arriving at New Jersey Motorsports Park yesterday. Weather played a role in yesterday’s qualification but today’s forecast is clear. It is expected to be another hot, muggy day at the track and driver fitness is sure to be a factor in the 45 minute race this afternoon.

While Markus and John are not satisfied with their qualifying results this morning, both know the importance of getting a strong, clean launch at the standing start and keeping their Swift 016 on course. The two races this weekend amount to half of the already completed schedule thus far, so drivers know that it is crucial to bring home a good result, especially for Championship leader Edwards.

Markus Niemela, #1 Mr. Jones/ Nuclear Clean Air Energy/ Entergy/ Newman Wachs Racing: (P4 1.11.025)

“I felt that the second qualifying was ok, not too good, but not too bad either. The car was a bit difficult to drive this morning but we will fix that for the race.”

John Edwards, #36 MAZDASPEED/ Nuclear Clean Air Energy/ Entergy/ Newman Wachs Racing: (P6 1.11.180)

“Qualifying was tough because it was our first real dry session. We missed the set-up a bit but we’ll make changes to be better in the race.”