(Lexington, Ohio) August 7, 2003 - After last week’s unfortunate crash and subsequent 7th place finish in Quebec, Jonathan Macri came out to Mid-Ohio and took a 5th place finish in the provisional qualifier, proving that Trois-Rivieres is just a memory. While the accomplishment of getting back into a racecar after making contact with a wall at 77mph and then taking 5th would be pleasing in itself, Macri is more interested in the bigger picture. “While I am happy with my finish in the qualifier this afternoon, I am even more pleased with the communication that is developing with my team”, Macri stated. “We are hitting our groove and I think that is what we need to really do well tomorrow, Sunday and in the remaining races. Now when I radio in from the track, they completely understand what I need and are making great adjustments to the car, and I am able to make myself more clear as well.”
After last week’s race, Macri was determined to come out to Ohio and make a fresh start. Currently third in total points for the championship, Jonathan is teaching everyone is that it doesn’t pay to dwell on the negative. “I try to keep an even temperament in everything I do. I have food on my plate, I get to race and chase my dream and I have an awesome family. What happens on the track is very important to me, but it’s not everything in life”, Macri commented. “Obviously I was upset after last weekend, but instead of dwelling on stuff like that, I learn and move on. I knew I had to come to Ohio and make a fresh start with my team. We are really pleased with the weekend so far.”
Macri’s even-keeled temperament keeps his head leveled and in the race at all times, perhaps that’s what sets leaders apart and keeps Jonathan as a top three competitor in an intensified race for the championship. If going by today’s session foretells anything, the weekend certainly looks promising for Macri and his team.
Tomorrow's on track activities begin at 9:15 a.m. with the second practice followed by a qualifying session at 3:00p.m. to determine the starting grid. Round nine of the CART Toyota Atlantic Championship race is scheduled to begin at 11:30 a.m. local time on Sunday, August 10. The Speed Channel will televise the race from the Mid-Ohio Sports Course with a one hour delay.
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