2001 Pro Series testing under way

Barber Dodge Pro Series Rookie of the Year Ryan Hunter-Reay used all available resources to record the fastest laps in pre-season testing sessions at the Sebring International Raceway. Under the watchful eye of Pro Series engineer Louis D'Agostino and lead instructor Barry Waddell, six racers including Hunter-Reay, stretched rubber on the Sebring 1.9-mile test circuit. D'Agostino and Waddell, along with a team of coaches, were customarily stationed track side to offer feedback to the field. After initial laps to establish set-up and track feel, the racers settled into their lines and a general comfort level. During tests, the six gathered, relayed and discussed their car's handling dynamics with coaches. Demonstrating the lessons learned, five of the six improved times on the second day of tests.

"Right off the bat I felt good in the car and I was producing some pretty decent lap times," said a satisfied Hunter-Reay. He continued, "the coaches' knowledge of the car really pays off when getting advice on setup and he recommended some changes that I will try. I wasn’t focusing on lap times but they came with all the different changes we made to the car."

Barber Dodge veterans Sara Senske, Keith Dusko, Jay Ricci and John Hall joined Hunter-Reay in the test along with French F3 racer Julien Piguet. He was on hand assessing the possibility of a Pro Series effort in 2001. Senske finished both days second only to Hunter-Reay. The Kennewick, Washington native registered quick times as she prepares for her second season in the Pro Series with Lynx Racing. Of the six drivers, only Hall did not improve on his second day, although the Texan turned in a solid performance with one of his best test outings ever.

- Andrew Torres