Toronto: Hima Maher qualifying notes

Calgary Driver Grabs Eighth Spot in Qualifying

TORONTO, ON (July 8, 2005)-Tackling the sharp turns and dirty track, Calgary driver Hima Maher qualified for eighth place on the starting grid for tomorrow's race at Toronto's Exhibition Park. Driving his 78 Centennial Motorsports Chevrolet Corvette, the Derhaag Motorsports competitor recorded his fastest time of 1:14.813 (84.451 m.p.h.) on lap seven lap of the 1.75-mile temporary street circuit for tomorrow's Trans-Am Road Racing Series event.

Although he also placed eighth in both practices sessions earlier today, Maher's speed dramatically improved with each successive run, shaving nearly three seconds off his lap times by the end of the day. He concentrated on braking and acceleration in the final four corners of the 11-turn course to improve his times.

"I'm very confident and comfortable racing on this track, "said Maher, who plans to follow an endurance strategy for tomorrow's race on a circuit that allows for very few passing opportunities. "This car is good for the duration. With the other drivers being aggressive, they might not make it to the end. I plan on lasting through the race to get into the best position possible."

-mr-