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CART: Bryan Herta Notes and Quotes, Toronto Friday

15 July 2000

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

Bryan Herta

Bryan Herta is ninth on the provisional starting grid for Sundays Molson Indy Toronto after recording a fast lap of 1 minute, 0.781 seconds (an average of 103.947 mph) in todays first-round qualifying session at Exhibition Place. The 30-minute session started in wet conditions after mid-day rain showers but improved rapidly as Herta made his way up the grid. Defending race-winner Dario Franchitti is on the provisional pole in 58.877 seconds (107.308 mph).

Practice continues Saturday morning with final qualifying set for 2:30 p.m. EDT.

BRYAN HERTA

"The conditions were not brilliant, but they were better than this mornings session, which was typical of a first session on a temporary street course. Our engine package is better than we had at Cleveland (two weekends ago), which is very encouraging. So, now we have to work on the car. Overall, I think were in great shape. Were in the fast (qualifying) group tomorrow, so I hope it doesnt rain so we have a shot at moving up toward the front."

TONY KANAAN UPDATE

Tony Kanaan, injured in a qualifying accident June 17 at Detroits Belle Isle, continues his rehabilitation in hopes of making his return next weekend at the Michigan 500. His broken left forearm, which required surgery to repair, is healing well. Likewise, the four broken ribs on his left side are progressing nicely. He is currently in Indianapolis, having taken delivery of a go-kart provided by Bryan Herta for his rehabilitation. He plans to take it out on-track for his first test-drive on Saturday, under the direction of Dr. Terry Trammel of Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis.

"Dr. Trammel is going to run me for 100 laps around a tight oval course to see how everything responds," Kanaan said. "The big concerns, obviously, are the strength in my left arm, which feels great, and my ribs. Ive driven with broken ribs before, and this first couple of races (Michigan and Chicago) are on ovals, so it shouldnt be as much of a problem as it would if we had to go to Mid-Ohio or Road America. Ive got my fingers crossed that Dr. Trammel gives me the green light to race."

Text provided by Laz Denes

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