Scott Dixon (No. 9 Target Chip Ganassi Dallara/Honda/Firestone, fastest in testing): “It was a lot of fun. I think when I came here last time for (the IndyCar Series compatibility test), we came with a car that probably had more downforce in it, was a little slower and little easier to drive. Today, it was definitely very fast. For such a small track, you’re flat out with the banking. It was also a lot of fun. You can run quite close or very close to the other cars. There’s tons of grip for us. I think, in that direction, the race is going to look very exciting. As Dan (Wheldon) touched on, I think it’s going to be difficult to pass. It just seems like the middle lane is so much further to go to try and get around somebody. That may be tough and that may put a little more emphasis on trying to qualify up front. But it was fun today. It’s a cool track. ”
Dan Wheldon (No. 10 Target Chip Ganassi Dallara/Honda/Firestone, second fastest): “I spoke to Rusty (Wallace) prior to race weekend, and he talked about how good it is. I have to say I have the same feelings. In my opinion, it’s a cross between Kentucky and somewhat similar to Pikes Peak. There’s a few little bumps in (Turns) 1 and 2, which makes it a challenge, but for the most part it’s an incredibly entertaining track to drive. I think it’s somewhat difficult to pass. You can certainly run side-by-side but to flat out overtake somebody that’s a similar speed is difficult. I think it bodes very well for some great racing. ”
Sam Hornish Jr. (No. 6 Team Penske Dallara/Honda/Firestone, third fastest): “The Team Penske car was really good right from the beginning of the session. Since Helio tested here earlier this year, we had a pretty good idea of our starting point for today. We were able to run flat out after about three laps, so we just tried to trim out the car as the day went on. Despite the rain, I think we’re in pretty good shape heading into tomorrow, and hopefully we’ll be able to improve a little bit so we can make a run at the pole. ”
Helio Castroneves (No. 3 Team Penske Dallara/Honda/Firestone, fourth fastest): “We had a chance to shake down the Team Penske car this afternoon, and I’m happy with how it’s handling thus far. We wanted to work a bit more today, but unfortunately, we got rained out. So, we’ll come back tomorrow to continue working to fine-tune the car for Sunday. ”
Marco Andretti (No. 26 NYSE Group Dallara/Honda/Firestone, fifth fastest): “I’m happy with what we were able to accomplish today. The NYSE car was good overall. We’ll spend some time tomorrow on the
