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| TROIS-RIVIERES, Quebec (August 3, 2003) - Jonathan Macri’s professionalism and determination will move him past his weekend in Trois-Rivieres and into a successful run at Mid-Ohio next week. Macri had one of the best times during the provisional qualifier before he made the mistake of going too wide coming into the front straightaway and making hard contact with the outside wall. Damage to his car was extensive and Macri was forced to use a backup car for the remainder of the weekend, thus eliminating his qualifying times and his chance to start on the grid within the top five drivers. While Macri has always been able to move far ahead no matter his position on the grid, this weekend proved differently as Trois-Rivieres is known as having a preventative quality when it comes to passing. "It is a tough place to pass even with the no blocking rule", Macri commented. "Going in at 8th is a difficult place to be in at Trois-Rivieres." A rather tame race considering the dangerous nature of the track, racing fans were still treated to high speeds and lots of intensity as the drivers battled for position on Sunday. Fortunately Macri, who started in 8th position, was able to maneuver into the 7th slot after #3 RuSport driver Aaron Justus struggled and was forced to go into the pit during the 18th lap. "We obviously are disappointed in our performance this weekend", Macri stated. "It is frustrating because we came into the race with a good car and then when we had to switch to the backup, and it just wasn’t handling as well. I have a great team though and they are working really hard to make the repairs and get the car ready for Mid-Ohio." With today’s finish, Macri continues in third place with 103 points overall in the Toyota Atlantic Championship standings, just 11 points behind second place Ryan Dalziel of Scotland. "I have a definite desire and need to get my first win", Macri said. "I have to keep finishing consistently and working hard to get that win. It is something I know I can do as I have great sponsors, a great team and I am confident in my abilities. It is just a matter of time." Macri will go into next weekend’s Grand Prix of Mid-Ohio hungry for that win and wanting to get off on a good start at the beginning of the weekend with his qualifying rounds. "I am just wanting to move on to Mid-Ohio and focus my attention on that. We need to start off on a good note out there", Macri stated. "We are over half way through the season, but I am still feeling good. I have been in the Toyota Atlantic series for three years now and I think that is helpful for me as I can keep a cool head in difficult driving situations and keep up with all the traveling and demands of being a driver." Fans and friends alike are pulling for Macri as his professionalism and passion for the sport make him an exciting driver to watch and a definite contender for a long and prosperous career in racing. The 45-lap race in Trois Rivieres, Quebec was televised live on the Speed Channel. They will also show the race Friday, August 8th at 5:00 p.m. EST. Round nine of the 2003 Toyota Atlantic Championship takes place in Lexington, Ohio for the Grand Prix of Mid-Ohio on Sunday, August 10. To track Macri’s race results, log on to www.jonathanmacri.com. To schedule an interview with Jonathan, please contact Kate Unger of All Sports Publicity at 602-750-1720. For further information on the Toyota Atlantic series, go online to www.toyotaaatlantic.com. ### |
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