LOUDON, New Hampshire (USA) – On Wednesday 19 September, the day after landing on American soil in Boston, Massachusetts, and having arrived in New Hampshire, Eric Hélary began his NASCAR experience by visiting the workshop and staff recently acquired by EURO-RACECAR organisers Team FJ. A warm handshake was the precursor to Thursday’s first visit to the oval in Loudon that will host this weekend’s NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race, the G-Oil 100.
Eric, how was your day of discovery in the US?
After a good night's sleep we visited the workshops of the squad acquired by Team FJ. I met Mike Olsen, crew chief, 2001 and 2006 NASCAR K&N Pro Series champion, who will also take part to the Sprint Cup race in the #32. I saw the car, we finalised the livery and began working on set-up.
What were your first impressions of the car, which will carry #61?
The cockpit is very similar to that of a Racecar, with the exception of its bucket seat that wraps around the helmet, making you feel cramped! The big change is the quality of the bodywork. It is sheet metal, a topic I know a bit about. It is the work of professional coachbuilders. Since this is a car designed for oval racing it is not symmetrical from right to left, but in spite of this there is no welding. Everything is cut and fitted by hand to ensure there are no air leaks in the floor. It is magnificent. Finework indeed!
Did you discover anything new about a stock car’s preparation?
Not especially, only that the car, which is brand new, was extremely well prepared.
What awaits you on Thursday during day two of your NASCAR experience?
The day will be devoted to administrative details; race licence control, briefings... Of course we will also talk strategy and walk the circuit. These are the crucial details.
EURO-RACECAR NASCAR Touring Series
Tel : +33 (0) 254.45.54.45
E-mail : racecar@teamfj.com
Web :
WWW.RACECARSERIES.COMLinkback: https://www.canadianracingonline.com/smf/index.php?topic=16504.msg105154#msg105154
