The Friday Report

Today was a short day and the last practices before the big event. A transient thunderstorm welcomed us this morning and the day was a bit soggy, but things weren’t so bad. During the first practice, a strange occurrence happened. Apparently when it rains before a 24-hour race, and there’s no prediction of rain during the race, no one wants to be on track. So, the 44 car went out to bed in a few things, but otherwise stayed dry. Our no. 4 car, they didn’t even bother doing that! There was simply no point to go on track and risk anything.

During the second practice session we had minor technical difficulties with the webcast, but it was the rain that really affected everyone. The bulk of the morning storm had passed, but the downpour was heavy enough to switch to rain tires and even cause a bit of a damper on the moods of a few drivers, though not on their performance. Since the rain was clearly not letting up, both cars put in a few laps in anger in the wet just to get used to it. Playing it safe, both cars stayed in the mix and finished the second practice with ridiculously close top ten times.

We continued our live Ustream webcast of the practice session; and worked out last minute kinks so that we can bring you the only full 24 hour coverage of the race.

After practice, we grabbed an umbrella and caught up with Porsche Factory driver Richard Lietz to keep him dry on his way back to the hauler. A really mellow, young man, he was nice enough to give a candid look at his feelings about the events of the day and the big event tomorrow. The rain didn’t bother him a bit.

“The practice was fine. We’re still driving and that’s what matters. It isn’t supposed to rain tomorrow; and even if it does, today’s rain has nothing to do with tomorrow. This is an endurance race and in a race such as this, the ability to adapt is very important. There can be sunshine every day of practice; but that won’t help you if it rains the day of the race, and vice versa. Practices are for making sure the cars work properly and that everyone is acclimated to the track and each other. During a 24 hour race, drivers must be able to go with the flow and take whatever may come their way.”

In regard to how he felt about his newest teammates he was all smiles when he said, “I’ve never had a teammate with [Magnus] that I didn’t like. I’ve just met Rene Rast and he is a great guy and fast! However, while speed is important to an extent; it is the way we treat each other that matters most. I’d rather have a teammate who isn’t as fast, but is a great person than 10 of the fastest who are [awful people]. Fortunately we have the best of both worlds with this team.”

Mentally, physically, mechanically, and spiritually, the team and crew are ready for the challenge of the Rolex 24. As a cohesive unit with their eye on the prize, Magnus Racing intends to race smart and give their supportive fans a great show.

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More information about Magnus Racing can be found at www.magnusracing.com. Any organization interested in learning more about how to be involved with one of the most unique and visible teams in sports car racing can e-mail info@magnusracing.com. All press inquiries can be directed to press@magnusracing.com.