Brooks Associates Racing test Richard Philippe

Richard Philippe, newly crowned as the BMW Champion and brother of ChampCar driver, Nelson Philippe, tested for Brooks Associates recently at Firebird Raceway in Phoenix. With less than favorable conditions (as compared to other tests held by the team at that track), Richard's time in the car confirmed the depth of young talent showing interest in the Atlantic series.

"Richard shows incredible maturity in his driving, well beyond his 15 years. He approaches each session with keen interest, eager to learn from the previous lap and continue to improve. And improve he did, his times were easily comparable to other drivers I've run at this track, and he achieved those numbers in a very short period of time." said John Brooks. "Richard is an emerging talent, no doubt, and will be an asset to the Atlantic series for 2006 and beyond."

"The test went really well! The Atlantic Cars are fast and I came up to speed quickly. I was happy to see that I was faster than guys that have won races in this years' championship. I want to thank the team for making me feel so comfortable and at home during the 2 day test." said Richard

"We've had increased interest in recent weeks from other drivers interested in learning more about Atlantic, the opportunities ChampCar continues to create for their development series and overall renewed consideration for Atlantic as a viable open wheel choice for further their careers. Certainly, the new chassis and motor combination affords these drivers a new showcase and starts everyone, rookies and veterans alike, on the same page." said John.

The team is negotiating with team sponsors, looking to finalize its drivers shortly and move into their new building early in the first quarter. "2006 is going to be an exciting year - I'm proud of the organization we have in place, the potential that we can bring a young driver, both on and off track, and the energy as Atlantic moves into its future." said Brooks.

John Brooks of Brooks Associates Racing was named Team Owner of the Year in 2005 by the series and has fielded such notables as Ronnie Bremer (now in ChampCar), Andreas Wirth (who was second in the championship going into Road America before being sidelined by an accident), Al Unser III, Fernando Rees and Daniel Pappas. In 2006, competitors will fight for the 12-race championship and the unique $2 million Champ Car series champion's bonus. For more information on the Atlantic series, please visit www.champcaratlantic.com.

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