August 3, 2001

Notes From Practice And Qualifying For The Grand Prix Of Portland 125 Mile Race

Johnny was 4th fastest in the rain soaked morning practice session Portland International Raceway with a time of 1:34.36. Johnny has never raced at Portland. Johnny noted “ I didn’t have a clue where I was going out there at the start of the session. It sure was a unique way (in the rain) to see the track. I was being extremely cautious out there. No sense in tearing up the equipment. I was able to find all the concrete, without tagging it, and found out where the puddles are on the track. If it rains for the race, I definitely know my way around. I think I also found a good line and good spots for the line when it is dry too. All in all, I’m pretty happy.”

The skies did clear for the post-lunch qualifying session, but we were only able to accomplish a sixth place starting position with a time of 1:14:981. “Talk about baptism by fire! I am getting more confident with the track. It was actually still pretty damp out there. I just couldn’t get the power down. I really wanted a “Fast Five” start because we need every point we can get in the battle with Paul Gentilozzi and Brian Simo in the points standings. Paul and Brian each gained a point on me. Had it been drier, we’d have been a little better. I am really pretty happy with sixth on the grid, given the rain in the morning and no previous experience here.” Johnny noted that there are some good passing zones at this track.
The drivers starting ahead of Johnny are: Tommy Archer in the #36 Viper (1:13.905), teammate Paul Gentilozzi (1:14.156), Boris Said (1:14.732), Brian Simo (1:14.738), Michael Lewis (1:14.917), followed by Johnny at 1:14.981.

Johnny had a good third practice session with a third fastest time. On the fast lap he noted that he really blew a turn and could have been solid in the 1:13’s time range.

The 125 mile, mandatory fuel stop race is aired LIVE on Speedvision tomorrow at 4PM ET.