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IROC: IRL Champion Greg Ray takes first laps at Daytona

10 February 2000

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

Greg Ray

Daytona Beach, FL - Northern Light Indy Racing League Champion Greg Ray climbed into a True Value IROC Firebird to turn his first laps on the high-banks of Daytona International Speedway. Greg ran a few solo laps before being joined by test drivers Dave Marcis, and Dick Trickle. "Perspective" was the word of the day for Greg. Greg's only concern, getting used to the surroundings of a full blown stock car. He was up to speed in no-time and mixing it up the veterans.

"You looked real good out there, " said Dick Trickle. Greg said he felt comfortable and had fun. Switching to a stock car style full face helmet will help his sight lines. His full face Indy car helmet is too restrictive when trying to see around a 3,500 pound full bodied race car.

Greg said, "I really want to do well in IROC, and I want to practice as much as possible to gain the confidence of the NASCAR drivers so they'll work with me."

Jim Sauter assured Greg that he, and fellow test drivers Dave Marcis, Dick Trickle, and Andy Hillenburg, intend to coach him, putting him into as many race scenarios as possible during practice sessions.

Greg also said he needs to lean the hand-signals. "Right now you can signal me and all I'm gonna do is wave back-- hello."

Text Provided by IROC

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