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CART: Andretti Impressed with Hawaiiann Super Prix Track

6 October 1999

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

HONOLULU -- Hawaiian Super Prix spokesperson and consultant Mario Andretti took his first spin around the Hawaiian Super Prix racetrack at Kalaelo Airport (Barber's Point) last Friday and proclaimed it among the smoothest in the CART FedEx Championship series.

Andretti took test laps around the 1.67-mile track in a specially-equipped Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1. The Hawaiian Super Prix racetrack, which is on a pair of airport runways, was recently improved with new paving on the turn sections of the track. Andretti said there are some very interesting elements to the HSP track.

"It's about as smooth as a pool table," he said. "I think it will be a very interesting racetrack because there are several areas where drivers will be able to take different lines. Because of that, there will be some racers who will really love this course and others whose driving style it won't favor."

Although the facility is not fully completed, Andretti sees the track as being very exciting for race fans.

"This will be a fun race to watch from the standpoint of the fans," Andretti added. "There are several tight turns where passing can take place and some long straightaways where the cars can get up to speed. The great thing about the track is that you can see all of the racing going on from any seat."

The Hawaiian Super Prix will be held November 11-13 at Kalaeloa Airport (Barber's Point). It will feature the Top 12 teams from the FedEx CART Championship Series plus four invited drivers. The race features a $10 million purse with the winner taking home $5 million. Tickets for the race are available by calling Ticket Plus at (808) 526-4400. Race information is available through the event's web site at www.hawaiiansuperprix.com.

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