Parker Johnstone's departure from the Brix-Comptech racing team, earlier this week, has opened a new possibility for Scott Goodyear. Goodyear had been on the top of Team Green's list, but Parker and Green are very close to a deal that should be finalized on or about December 1st.

"Barry was leaning toward Scott," team spokesperson Carol Wilkins confirmed yesterday. "Kool wanted a strong American driver, but if one couldn't be found, Scott was acceptable. Then the Parker thing came up."

"Barry hasn't signed Parker yet because they've both been on the road, and Barry is leaving again to try out new drivers for our Indy Lights team. Things may not be finalized until Dec. 1."

Honda of America will help in selecting the driver for the opening at Brix-Comptech and Scott Goodyear is a very good candidate for that ride. Scott Goodyear impressed Honda when he almost won the 1995 Indianapolis 500, but was disqualified for passing the pace car.

There has been a great amount of speculation regarding the engine packages for both teams. Would Parker take the Honda to Green? Would Brix-Comptech keep their Honda? Those questions have apparently been answered.

Wilkins said yesterday that Team Green has a year remaining in its Ford-Cosworth contract. Another source indicated Honda's contract with Comptech called for it to stick with the team only so long as Johnstone "or an equivalent driver" was part of the picture.