PacWest's Final Test at Homestead
©1999 SpeedCenter Publishing

Gugelmin and Blundell conclude 3-day Homestead oval test

PacWest Racing drivers Mauricio Gugelmin and Mark Blundell concluded a successful 3-day test yesterday at the Miami-Dade Homestead Motorsports Complex. Both drivers averaged approximately 150 miles per day of trouble-free testing in the team's '99 Mercedes Reynards.

Gugelmin piloted his #17 Hollywood PacWest Mercedes-Benz to a 25.07 second lap time and came away confident following the test. "We've finally broken into the exclusive group of about a half dozen cars that can run comfortably here," remarked Gugelmin. "We ran a 50-lap stint and the car was consistent and quick throughout the run. We still have some minor adjustments to make, but overall I'm very happy and pretty confident heading into the big race."

Meanwhile, teammate Blundell shattered his previous best by posting a 25.1 second lap in his #18 Motorola PacWest Mercedes. Blundell has spent the last 11 days on the road with seven test days including two days at Sebring, two days at the Homestead road course, and three days at Homestead's oval.

"It was a long hard trip but well worth it," commented Blundell. "The team did a great job all around. We ran really strong in the heat of the day yesterday with a 25.2 during 80-degree weather. We also made good progress on our aero development. I'm pleased with the gains we've made and looking forward to the race in two weeks."

The PacWest duo will return to the Miami-Dade Homestead Motorsports Complex for the Grand Prix of Miami scheduled for March 21, 1999.

Source: PacWest Racing Group

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