Successful Shakedown for Petersen/White Lightning

Petersen/White Lightning Racing’s new Ferrari 430 GT was shaken down Saturday at Ferrari’s Fiorano circuit in Italy. Tim Bergmeister piloted the GT2 contender to nearly 190 trouble-free miles in damp conditions. The Nevada-based team gained valuable experience and knowledge with the V8-powered machine as they embark on an exciting 2007 season in the American Le mans Series. “This is a major weekend for myself and the team," Team Owner Michael Petersen said. “It was very exciting for Dale and me when we ordered the Ferrari. Now, for me, it all feels that much more real. There are so many cool things we have experienced in our careers but to actually take delivery of the car and to have our first laps with it at Fiorano is right up there."

“The car was running without any problems and we did around 300 kilometers," Bergmeister explained. “It needs a different driving style than I have had in the past but I had a good chance to adapt myself to the car in wet and nearly dry conditions. I was not pushing too much but it is different to drive than the Porsche in the rain… From what we experienced today, I am very optimistic for the season."

“It is pretty hard to imagine what could come next," Petersen added. “However, there are some major things we haven’t even made public yet. We are all looking forward to the next couple of weeks and getting to Sebring to put this Ferrari up against our competition in the GT2 class."

The team now sets their focus on preparing the prancing horse for its debut race at the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring next month.