Dalziel on top as Legge makes debut

However the attention was focused on fellow Briton's Katherine Legge making her debut in the category.

Legge's run in the Rocketsports car was the first time a female has driven a Champ Car since Lyn St James' Indy 500 raced in the mid-nineties. Legge's outing was a shakedown before she prepares for her two-day test with PKV Racing next week.

Legge completed 70 laps with a best of 53.2 seconds around the 1.65 mile Florida track, 1.7 seconds off Dalziel's benchmark.

"Today's test was very enjoyable," said Legge. "I think it's a big advantage for me. Today's test wasn't about lap times, it was about getting to know the car and the track. It was incredibly valuable for me. Next week will be more about lap times.

"I'm very grateful to Paul Gentilozzi and the whole Rocketsports team for the opportunity, it has been a pleasure working with them."

Dalziel's pace will have done him no harm as he also fights for a place in Jimmy Vasser's team, whether the former champion decides to retire or not.

"I was quick straight off of the truck this morning," said Dalziel. "We struggled yesterday morning as I worked to rid myself of bad sports car habits. I was able to get up to speed in the afternoon and we carried that over to today. We did a long run on full tanks late in the afternoon and I learned some things. I'm happy with how thing have gone."

Giorgio Pantano matched Dalziel's times. The former Jordan racer is also in the frame for a drive with PKV next season.

Tuesday's times:

Pos Driver      Time
 1. Dalziel     51.5
 2. Pantano     51.5
 3. Danielsson  52.1
 4. Lyons       52.2
 5. Zwolsman    52.2
 6. Legge       53.2
 7. Clarke      53.5