| Date/Time: | 2006-05-10 07:16:00 |
| Race: | Indianapolis 500 |
Bucknum in Indy, Preparing for QualificationJeff Bucknum arrived in the Indianapolis area on Thursday afternoon in preparation for his second appearance at the Indy 500 on May 28. But it may be a while before he actually gets to strap into his #92 Hemelgarn Racing Life Fitness Dallara Honda and get some laps underneath him. Current plans call for Jeff to be a second weekend qualifier for the 2006 event. When Honda became the sole supplier of engines for the IndyCar Series they introduced a new engine lease program for the Indy 500 to make the month a bit more economical for some teams. There is a deep discount for those cars that do not begin practice until after the first weekend of qualifying. “It might be a bit tough to see others out there this week but our program is still strong for next week,” Bucknum explained. “Our plans changed direction a few times in the last 30 days and I am happy with the effort that Ron (Hemelgarn) has put together for the event. I think I will end up with more laps before qualifying than I got last year and that will be a big help for a good result in the race.” There is still lots to do and learn for Bucknum at the speedway and the shop. “This gives me time to watch drivers with more experience, watch different lines and strategies. All in all I plan to make it an advantage.” Hemelgarn offered his take on the strategy. “Every race driver wants as many laps as possible and I understand that. But Jeff showed last year he can gain a handle on this place quickly and we will work on a very concentrated schedule for him next week. This schedule also gives Lee Kunzman and the guys at the shop more time to prep the car and build momentum for his qualifying effort and, more important the race itself.” First weekend qualifying begins May 13, 14. The track will reopen on Wednesday May 17-19 for practice with final qualifying May 20 and 21. Check in with www.indyracing.com for live timing and scoring, audio and TV schedules. |
|