Monterrey: Conquest Racing Saturday notes

GRAHAM RAHAL SETS NEW TRACK RECORD IN MONTERREY, MEXICO AS HE CAPTURES HIS FIRST ATLANTIC POLE POSITION

Monterrey, Mexico, May 20, 2006 -- Graham Rahal of the Mi-Jack Conquest Racing Team captured his first Champ Car Atlantic pole position today and also set a new track record, lapping the 2.104-mile road course in 1:23.217 (91.020 mph). After a first round qualifying session yesterday which put Rahal in fifth place on the provisional grid, he made a strong come back today to get that much awaited first pole position.

"We were quick all weekend but yesterday we had an issue with the front wing in qualifying which affected the downforce on the car, so we were only able to get up to fifth but I knew we had a fast car and that we would be able to bounce back today. I'm really excited about getting my first pole position, it is a good confidence builder", said the second youngest pole-winner in Atlantics history. "Tomorrow is another day though. Like in every race it will be important to make it through the first corner. The car is good on long runs so we hope to stay at the front."

Rahal will be looking to add a victory to his list of firsts as the third round of the Champ Car Atlantic Championship gets underway at 10:30 a.m. (Central time) tomorrow morning.

-mjcr-