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Engines and tires still hot, and adrenalin still rushing, competition remains stiff after the chequered flag waved at Chicago Motor Speedway this past weekend. Without missing a shift, CART Toyota Atlantic teams assembled cars and equipment, and commenced their trek northward across the border into Toronto, Canada, where they will open the Molson Indy Toronto this race weekend. Molson Indy organizers have been eagerly preparing to host what has now become a staple in the summer diets of Canadian open-wheel race fans. Saturday’s race will mark the 12th time since 1990 that the Atlantic series has competed here. The wails and cheers will ring loud for 20-year-old Jonathan Macri who will be returning home to attempt to lay claim to the coveted prize that has thus far eluded him. Always threatening, and always highly competitive, he has come close this season, capturing 2nd in Portland and 3rd in Milwaukee. In his 2001 rookie season last year, Jonathan’s inaugural race at Toronto’s 1.755-mile temporary street course did not follow the desired script. Perhaps a slight over zealousness and a blurred focus may have contributed; but the pressure of running in one’s hometown could account for Marci’s racing discretion or lack thereof. However, Jonathan insists that this year concentration will be paramount. “It’s good to back to race in Toronto,” Jonathan said. “I raced here in 1999 and 2000 in the Ford 1600 Championship and last year in the Atlantic, so I know the track well. It’s bumpy and being a typical street course, you have to negotiate surface changes from asphalt to cement. The real challenge is handling the transition from asphalt to cement. Proper set-up will be absolutely integral if we want to challenge for a podium finish. Last year didn’t go too well. I spread myself too thin trying to thank and acknowledge all the fans for their support spending quite a lot of time shaking hands and conversing. I simply lost focus. But this year, I’m committed to focusing on the race and driving hard for the win. Obviously, I will show my appreciation to my fans but only after I’ve completed my work on the track. It’s great being part of P-1 Racing. We ran here last year so we have accumulated good mileage together at this track. Hopefully, the experience will translate come race day and I can win one for myself, P-1 Racing and for my major sponsors: NTN Bearings, Miller Genuine Draft and Battlefield Rentals as well as all my other sponsors.” In 2000, Macri tasted victory in Toronto capturing first place on his way to winning the Canadian Formula Ford 1600 Championship. Although some time has elapsed since he stood in the winner’s circle, and he will be racing in the more competitive Atlantic series, the determination to visit it once again must be indelibly embedded in Marci’s vision. Currently in 9th place, with 47 points, 27 points behind leader Jon Fogarty and only 14 points shy of second place Michael Valiante. It is hoped that Round 7 of the 12-race season becomes pivotal for Jonathan. A win in Toronto would not only be redemptive but would also be a just reward for a driver who has brought much competitive drama to the Atlantic series this year racing with the grit and maturity that belies his age and experience. The Molson Indy Toronto race weekend begins Friday, July 5, with a 40-minute practice session at 11:45 a.m., and will be followed by the first of two qualifying sessions at 4:00 p.m. Saturday will see Atlantic drivers take to the Toronto street course for the second Qualifying session at 9 a.m. The green flag waves at 3:30 p.m. for the 35-lap race, which will be televised, LIVE on Speed Channel at 3.30PM EST. For further information visit on Jonathan Macri visit www.jonathanmacri.com or www.toyotaatlantic.com |
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