CHAMPCAR/CART: Houston GP Thursday notes

By Chris Speigner - Motorsport.com

The Texaco Havoline Grand Prix of Houston got underway on Thursday with a press conference and golf tournament at Northgate Country Club. Many of the drivers from the three CART sanctioned series answered questions from the press.

During the press conference, Jimmy Vasser alluded to the fact that he is considering leaving the CART series after this season. Vasser cited IRL or NASCAR as possibilities for his career move. When asked why he has been called "the punk", Juan Montoya responded by saying "I'm not sure why they call me a punk, but I like it. You don't come here [CART] to make friends you bring them with you."

A long drive competition was held following the press reception with Alex Gurney walking away the big driver of the day. Back at the track, the teams spent the day preparing for the serious work ahead this weekend.