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ROLEX 24: Nic Jonsson with Dyson at Daytona

13 January 2001

Nic Jonsson of Aliso Viejo, Calif., has been selected to drive for the Dyson 
Racing Team in the SportsRacer prototype class at this year's Rolex 24 at 
Daytona.  The prestigious 24-hour sports car race is scheduled for Feb. 3 and 
4 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway.

Jonsson will co-drive the No. 20 Thetford/Norcold/Goodyear Riley & Scott Mk 
III with team owner Rob Dyson, Elliott Forbes-Robinson and Max Papis.  The 
car was the overall Rolex winner in 1997 and 1999 and the SportsRacer class 
winner in 2000.

Jonsson was judged against three other talented drivers during a three-day 
test at Daytona International Speedway Jan. 4 to 6.  Although he logged only 
15 laps, he was quickest of those vying for the seat.

"I feel very fortunate because there were a lot of good drivers testing with 
me," he said.  "I'm very pleased to get the ride because Dyson is a top, top 
team and I think we have a very good chance of winning this race, or at least 
being on the podium.

"This car is faster than what I've been driving this past year, but it's not 
the first time I've driven this type of car.  It's a little more sensitive 
and reacts more to changes.  It runs a different engine package, with a much 
bigger volume engine and a lot of torque.  It's a lot of fun to drive."

Jonsson tested and raced the Lola U.K. prototype sports car in 1997 and '98 
and also tested the Riley & Scott world sports car.  Prior to that, he was a 
test driver for Reynard Formula Three and designer/race engineer Ken 
Andersson.  Born in Bankyerd, Sweden, Jonsson has raced in Scandinavian, 
European, Asian and North American series.  He has won championships in both 
open-wheel and touring cars.