May 18, 2001

Mosport Park Canada - Friday Practice Day

The morning got off to a late start due to fog and rain. When the cars finally took to the track on Friday afternoon for the first official session, it was rather disappointing for the Rocketsports team. A number of factors including a full course black flag and a mandated fuel stop test that were mixed into an already short 20 minute session caused frustration. Johnny was 6th followed by Paul in 7th. Neither drivers times were equal to the session times from Thursday Test Day.

Johnny charged his Smiley Green #64 Jaguar to the third fastest time in the afternoon session (Paul was first followed by Brian Simo). The car is good and ready for a great qualifying effort tomorrow morning.

The Mosport race marks the return of a mandatory pit stop for fuel. The last time this rule was in effect in Trans-Am was October 1991. The race length has also been increased to a 125 mile event. This will add interesting elements to the race including pit stop strategy, tire compound decisions, and possible driver fatigue.

Watch for more news reports and some very cool photos of Butch’s off-week art project and MUCH MORE (in the “@ the Track” Mosport Photo section) coming during the afternoon tomorrow (Saturday, May 19th)