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Greg Pickett, Rick Sutherland and Robert Stallings Test The Margraf Racing Daytona Prototype Auburn CA (September 15, 2004)-Margraf Racing had another successful test of its Nolte Engineering sponsored Pontiac-Riley Mark 11 at ...

Edited: Oct 20, 2004, 1:17 AM

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Greg Pickett, Rick Sutherland and Robert Stallings Test The Margraf Racing Daytona Prototype

Auburn CA (September 15, 2004)-Margraf Racing had another successful test of its Nolte Engineering sponsored Pontiac-Riley Mark 11 at Northern California's Infineon Raceway, October 13. Again the Riley Mark 11 performed flawlessly as the team readied itself for its Rolex Series debut at the Lexus Grand American Champions Weekend, October 29-31 at California Speedway.

"It was great returning home and testing at a track that we are familiar with," said team owner Bill Margraf. "We have many years of testing at Infineon and it was very encouraging as to see how easily the Pontiac-Riley improved when we made changes to the set up."

The test also enabled Margraf Racing to allow different drivers to have their first laps in a Grand American Prototype.

First up was 2004 SCCA Formula Atlantic National Champion, Robert Stallings. Despite having limited experience in closed wheel racing, he quickly adapted to the Pontiac-Riley. "I am really surprised how easy these cars are to drive," said Stallings. "It doesn't take much time to work up to speed. "

Next up was former Trans Am champion Greg Pickett.  He quickly showed his
experience and speed.  Within a few laps he was turning very competitive
times.  He returned to the pits ecstatic about the car and Grand Am
prototypes.  "What a neat car," said Pickett. "This car is a blast to
drive.  I need to take a close look at this class."

Last up was the 2004 Lemans winner in the LMP2 class, Rick Sutherland. He was able to do only a very short stint in the Riley Mark 11. "It's a typical Riley chassis. I have many laps in various Riley Mark 3s and this car feels very similar," said Sutherland. "When is your next test?"

The Margraf Racing Pontiac-Riley Mark 11 is sponsored by Nolte Associates, a 400-person civil engineering company with offices in California, Colorado, Utah and Mexico.

-mr-

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