Las Vegas: Conquest Racing Friday notes

Conquest Racing Atlantic Vegas Grand Prix First Round Qualifying Report

Las Vegas, Nevada, April 6, 2007 -- In was a difficult start for the Conquest Racing Atlantic Team in the Cooper Tires Presents the Champ Car Atlantic Championship Powered by Mazda at the inaugural Vegas Grand Prix. Rookies Matt Lee and Giacomo Ricci qualified respectively 16th and 18th in the first round of qualifying. Despite the day's difficulties, both drivers are optimistic heading into Saturday's final session.

16th - Matt Lee

"We struggled today in qualifying but the team worked really well. I know that tomorrow will be better and I am confident we can improve our position. The Vegas track is challenging but I really enjoy street circuits because you can take it to the edge. It tests your limit because if you push too hard you are in the wall."

18th - Giacomo Ricci

"We had a problem with the engine this morning and we lost a lot of track time, which put me back for qualifying because I did not have the chance to work on the setup of the car. It was also my first time of a street course so I was at a disadvantage heading into qualifying. We will be back on track tomorrow morning and I am confident that we will be able to move up the grid."

-credit: cr