Barron Connor Racing test notes 2003-12-28

John Bosh and Danny Sullivan run at Ferrari's Fiorano circuit
First test for Barron Connor Racing Ferrari 575 GTC

Barron Connor Racing have tested the first of their two Ferrari's 575 GTC at Ferrari's own test track in Italy last Tuesday. Both John Bosch (NL) and Danny Sullivan (USA) drove the new car at the Pista di Fiorano next to the Ferrari factory in Maranello.

"Conditions were just perfect", John Bosch explains. "It was cold, but dry and sunny, and the car ran without any problems. This was quite a special moment, to be honest, to see the car for the first time and then drive it at Fiorano. It was shaken down on Friday before the test and both Danny and I did quite some laps on Tuesday. The support from Ferrari and the people that have built the car was fantastic. Everybody was there to make sure all went well. The car was remarkably easy to drive. Of course this was just the first test, but all felt well and to see the quality of the car and how it has been built, really is very encouraging. This is the first of the two Ferrari's 575 GTC that we will enter in the Sebring 12 Hours, the Le Mans 24 Hours and the Le Mans Endurance Series this year. We are nicely on schedule. We are now finalising our pre-season testing program, while the second car will be ready in time for Sebring. We are a new team, but I believe we have brought together a lot of expertise and experience. As for drivers, interest is high and we are talking to many people at the moment."

Danny Sullivan was equally pleased with the test: "To go to Maranello and to experience the ambiance was so incredible. Of course you know of the magic that is Ferrari, but to see, feel and be a small part of it is something else. I always felt that the 312 PB was the coolest racing car ever, so to now drive a new Ferrari at their own test track was like a dream come true. Being there was really moving and made me feel like a kid again. The car was fantastic. We just turned it on and it ran all day without any trouble. The potential is definitely there and I feel that we have the right car for what promises to be the most competitive class in sportscar racing."

The official launch of the team will be staged prior to the team leaving for Sebring.

-www.barron-connor-racing.com