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Rookie Matos Opens Fast in Toronto
Streets of Toronto
Toronto
07/10/2009
Last Year's Winner:
NA (inaugural IndyCar Series event)
Weather:
Mostly sunny, mild, 78 degrees F
Rapahel Matos continued to show strong form on the temporary street circuit portion of the 2009 IndyCar Series schedule, as the Luczo Dragon Racing rookie paced the field Friday in practice for Sunday's Honda Indy Toronto.
Matos, who started third and finished eighth at the most recent street circuit event this year -- the Grand Prix of Long Beach -- set his fast time in the second of two practice sessions held on the streets surrounding Exhibition Place in downtown Toronto. But it wasn't quite a perfect day for the Brazilian, as he spun in the final turn late in the afternoon session, making light contact with the wall as a result.
Justin Wilson, winner last week at the Watkins Glen road course, was second-quickest on the day, followed by Will Power, making his return to the IndyCar Series in a third Team Penske Honda. Activities in Toronto continue Saturday with final practice and "Firestone Fast Six" qualifying. Sunday's race starts at 1 p.m. EDT, with live television coverage on ABC.
Raphael Matos (#2 Luczo Dragon Racing Honda) quickest in practice today: "The day went quite well for us. We started out with the same [chassis] setup we used at Long Beach as our 'baseline', and developed the car from there. We found a good level of grip and good balance, but unfortunately I did hit the wall right at the end of the session. But I'm sure the team will have the car perfect for tomorrow. A win here would be huge for us. Performance wise, I think our team is capable of winning."
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