Sebring: Champion Racing qualifying notes

A Champion Racing Audi RS 6 "Competition" starts the opening round of this year's SPEED World GT Challenge tomorrow (FRIDAY) from the front row of the grid.

Randy Pobst had looked set for a pole-position start having headed the time sheets after an early fastest lap.

But Randy, new to the Audi Sport North America-backed Champion outfit this year, lost out on the No.1 spot with less than five of the 20-minute qualifying session remaining.

"I'm obviously very pleased despite missing out on pole," said an ecstatic Pobst. "To bag a front row start on my maiden race with Audi is a great introduction for me. The Champion Racing team have done a magnificent job on the world motor racing debut of the RS 6. I can't wait to start using Audi's legendary quattro all-wheel-drive traction -- it'll be a revelation."

Meanwhile defending World Challenge GT champion Michael Galati claimed a third row start -- deprived of improving in the dying moments of the session when the chequer came out slightly early due to a stricken car on the track.

Mike commented: "I'm satisfied with a top-five place. To claim second and fifth places on the grid for our first RS 6 race is a great performance. But I know the race will be tough -- it'll be a case of taking care of the car."

Rod Bymaster, Audi Sport North America's Motorsport Manager, commented: "Champion have done a great job. They made some improvements to the car overnight which helped today. I'm looking forward to the race"

The 50-minute race around Sebring's 3.7-mile track starts at 1625 tomorrow (FRIDAY).

-cr-