Zhuhai: Team USA Friday notes

A1 TEAM USA's Summerton 17th in practice at Zhuhai

Kimball 9th in all-rookie sessions

A1 TEAM USA's Jonathan Summerton was 17th in practice Friday in the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport at Zhuhai International Circuit in the Republic of China.

"We had a very difficult session," Summerton said. "First, we had a large bubble form on the edge of our right-rear tire and had to stop to change tires. On the second run, we had some problems with the 'We the People' car and are searching to see if there is something broke in the car.

"I think we will have a good chance running at the front the rest of the weekend, but we will have to work hard and do what we know we can do. The team worked hard and I know we have plenty more left in the car."

Summerton, of Kissimmee, Fla., completed 24 laps in the hour-long session with a best of 1:24.976 on the 2.7-mile, 14-turn course.

Charlie Kimball, of Camarillo, Calif., opened A1 TEAM USA's weekend by posting the ninth fastest lap of 1:24.716 in the all-rookie practice. Kimball ran his fast time and completed 15 laps in the initial 25-minute session and ran 1:24.878 in 15 laps in the second 25-minute session. There were 19 rookie drivers.

"Although I was disappointed with my lap time and position in the practice, I did manage to give plenty of information to the team," Kimball said. "I had a great time learning Zhuhai."

Summerton will have a one-hour practice Saturday to prepare for qualifying and the races. Qualifying is Saturday and the 20-minute Sprint and 70-minute Feature races are Sunday.

"We need to find more speed," A1 TEAM USA owner Rick Weidinger said. "We're a stronger team than 17th. It's important that we qualify in the top 10 to be in position for a top-five run in the Sprint and Feature races."

-credit: a1teamusatv.com