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ALMS: Hybrid R&D: We're back and we're better at Laguna Seca

6 October 1999

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

Orange, CA.-- After skipping the Petite LeMans race at Road Atlanta in an effort to strengthen our program with further engine and aerodynamics development, we are now in an aggressive position to compete up front once again.

Laguna Seca Raceway is truly one of the premier sports car races in the world. The fans, sponsors and teams who participate in this event are of the highest level in their respective categories. Hybrid R&D is very excited to return here for the third year in a row, the fourth time in six years.

Hybrid R&D is pleased to come into this race weekend with its regular driver Chris Bingham, who has won a couple of championships here and considers this to be his "second" home track. "Throughout the season Chris has shown talent in speed and a maturity which we were not expecting to see so soon in his first year driving prototype cars and at such a young age," says Rod Everett, team owner.

Hybrid R&D has negotiated a continued return to sports car racing by a long time competitor of not only prototype cars, but formula cars as well. The team is happy to be presenting Rick Sutherland to the driver lineup.

"While Rick has not competed on a regular basis for a couple of years, he comes with some outstanding credentials. He has had lap records at Laguna Seca in Formula Atlantic along with thousands of competitive laps here, as does Chris Bingham," continues Everett. "I am blessed to have such a wonderful group on our team, from our drivers and pit crew to the members back at the workshop. Our future looks good."

With the announcement on October 1 of the San Diego Grand Prix being replaced with the Las Vegas Grand Prix for November 7, the team is faced with some marketing challenges which, of course, were not expected. "The San Diego Grand Prix had much to do with our program's budgeting now and for the next couple of years. Without going into details, I will say that this news was not necessarily a welcome bit of information. However, the Las Vegas Grand Prix being held the same week as the SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Assn.) show may present itself with new and interesting opportunities."

The race at Laguna Seca will be televised on Sunday, October 10, by CNBC at 1:00 to 3:00 PM PST. Hybrid R&D will be testing there on Thursday, October 7, with practice and qualifying on both Friday and Saturday, October 8 and 9.

To our fans and sponsors, we thrive on your support and encouragement. Keep it up! Thanks.

Editors Note: For hundreds of hot racing photos and racing art, be sure to visit The Racing ImageGalleries and the Visions of Speed Art Gallery.