Scheckter has first Panther test

The South African drove the team's Chevrolet Gen IV-powered Dallara yesterday (Wednesday) at the Milwaukee Mile oval, which will host an IRL race for the first time in 2004.

"Milwaukee is new to the IRL schedule in 2004, and we know that it is important to test here quickly before the weather has something to say about testing," said Scheckter. "Today was still a bit cool, and we quit early because the winds were so strong, but it was a great chance for me to start communicating with Andy Brown (engineer), Simon Morley (chief mechanic) and all the Pennzoil Panther guys. This is a great organization, and I really appreciate how they have made me feel so welcome."

John Barnes, co-owner of Panther Racing, was pleased with Scheckter's first run with the team.

"Obviously we have known that Tomas is a very fast race car driver," Barnes said. "Now we know how good he is with technical feedback, and we have an opportunity to start building a communication relationship that will be the foundation to success in 2004.

"Tomas' knowledge of the car and the IRL formula should allow us to take the very strong race platform we have developed with this car over the last year and take it to the next level. I am very impressed."