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CART: Bryan Herta Post Race Notes and Quotes, Toronto

17 July 2000

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

Bryan Herta and the #55 Hollywood/Mo Nunn Racing Mercedes-Benz Reynard had their bid for a strong finish in todays Molson Indy Toronto ended on Lap 36 of 112 scheduled laps by a sudden flurry of mechanical problems during the first round of scheduled pit stops. An exhaust problem caused the clutch to fail during Hertas first pit stop, necessitating an attempt to push start the car by the Hollywood/Mo Nunn Racing crew. While attempts by Herta to get the car into gear failed, the engine caught fire and the team was forced to call it a day. Herta placed 18th, the same spot he qualified on Saturday. He was driving in place of injured Hollywood/Mo Nunn Racing driver Tony Kanaan for the third race in a row. Kanaan, injured at Detroit June 17, is attempting to return next weekend to defend his Michigan 500 title.

BRYAN HERTA

"That was one of those freak things. First, we developed an exhaust problem that burned up the clutch during the pit stop. And then the hot air caught some bodywork on fire, and then we lost our gearbox. The race was playing out alright for us, and then all of a sudden it was over before we knew it. What a shame. Now Im off to play some golf next week and then go on vacation with my family. These last three races were fun. This is a great group of people to work with, and I sincerely thank them for the opportunity. My main focus is to come back full-time next year. Ive got some things in the works. Im still in contact with Gerry Forsythe, so that situation may come back around. In the meantime, Im going to make the most of my time with my family."

TONY KANAAN UPDATE

Regular Hollywood/Mo Nunn Racing driver Tony Kanaan drove 200 laps in a go-kart today for the second day in a row, continuing a vigorous recovery effort in Indianapolis after having broken his left forearm and four ribs on his left side in a qualifying accident at Detroit on June 17.

"Im just so happy at the thought of coming back. Im feeling very good in the race car, all things considered. Pain is not really an issue as I drive the go-kart around the track. Ive been driving hard, and even one-handed for a good bit of the time. Ill drive again on Monday and Tuesday, put in a good workout on Wednesday morning, and then head up to Michigan on Wednesday. Its not over until the doctor says I can race on Thursday, but I sure feel pretty good."

Text provided by Laz Denes

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