Houston: Nick Haye race notes

NICK HAYE TAKES A TOP 5 FINISH AT HOUSTON

Competing in the Star Mazda Championship Series, Nick Haye showed great progress during the weekend of the Grand Prix of Houston. He ran solidly in the top ten in practice and qualifying while putting in laps as fast as the leader in the race.

"I'm really enjoying this series -- the competition is seriously stiff and the cars are fast and fun to drive," said Haye.

Starting from the 7th position at the Grand Prix of Houston, Nick Haye fell back into 10th position at the start seeking to avoid contact in Turn One. On the restart after the second yellow Haye proceeded to work his way back up through the field. He was in 6th position by the third yellow and had passed into 5th before Marco De Leo spun and catapulted him into 4th.

Unfortunately, Haye locked up his brakes in Turn One and was unable to recover. This error allowed Ron White to pass him in corner three after the chicane.

"Even though I couldn't prevent the late pass by White -- I feel good about this first top 5 finish," said Haye. "This was my first experience on a real street course and I was able to be fast and in control relatively quickly. I look forward to taking this momentum into next weekend at VIR."

-credit: jdc