The IndyCar Series competes for the fifth time at the historic Watkins Glen International road course beginning Saturday.
Danica Patrick seeks best finish
Watkins Glen, a track where Patrick has not finished well, stands in the way of what has been a great run for the popular driver. Patrick’s road-racing skills have been challenged at the Glen, where she has just one top-10 finish (eighth in 2006).
In an effort to improve her performance at the Glen, Patrick took part in a team test session at the track last month.
Helio Castroneves continues comeback
The 34-year-old Brazilian overcame the biggest challenge of his life when he was acquitted of tax evasion charges in April. He followed that up with a triumphant return to Indianapolis, winning his third Indy 500 in May.
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This week, Castroneves was nominated in the “Best Moment” and “Best Driver” categories for the 2009 ESPN ESPY Awards.
The driver of the No. 3 Team Penske Dallara claimed three straight pole starting spots from 2005 to 2007 at Watkins Glen but has never finished better than seventh in four races.
Dixon seeks record
Scott Dixon scored his 19th career IndyCar victory in last weekend’s SunTrust Indy Challenge at Richmond International Speedway, tying him with Sam Hornish Jr. for the all-time lead. He hopes to be the new king of IndyCar after Watkins Glen.
Dixon won the first three IndyCar events at Watkins Glen and was poised for a fourth victory last year before he made a mistake, spinning out while warming his tires during a caution while running second.
Tracy could make mark
Paul Tracy, one of the most successful and exciting drivers in the history of North American open-wheel racing, will be competing at the historic Glen circuit for the first time.
The 2003 Champ Car World Series champion will drive the No. 15 KV Racing Technology Dallara and team with regular driver Mario Moraes.
Earlier race start
In the first four IndyCar events at Watkins Glen, the start of the race had been later in the afternoon. Last year it started at 3:30 p.m. On Sunday, the race will start two hours earlier. The move was made after feedback the track received from fans.
Franchitti tries to hold lead
Dario Franchitti, driver of the No. 10 Target Chip Ganassi Dallara, enters the Glen event with a one-point lead over his teammate Scott Dixon, 279-278. Ryan Briscoe is third in points with 253.
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Tire option could be factor
Identified by wide, red-painted sidewalls, the alternate tires feature a softer tire compound that provides drivers with more grip, yielding faster lap times. The drawback of the “reds,” as they’re commonly called, is that they’re less durable.
Once they begin to wear out, the added performance drops off quickly and the tires can adversely affect lap times.
