Heylen tests at Putnam park

Jan Heylen conducted his first laps around Putnam Park Raceway yesterday in Conquest Racing’s, Panoz DP01. Not only was it the first time out in the new Panoz Champ Car for Heylen, but also his first time out with his new team, Conquest racing.

Heylen started the morning session on a used set of tires to get familiar with the new car. After a few runs it was time for his first set of new tires. Heylen quickly got back into the rhythm and put down some consistent lap times. Heylen went true three set of new tires finishing the day with almost 150 miles.

They ended the day practicing a few standing starts, as this is also going to be new for Heylen in Portland.

Heylen was happy about the progress they made true out the day. “I think we did everything we could’ve done on my first day in the car. I got the chance to get familiar with the new car and after that we also got some test work done. I think we learned a little bit more about the car and I hope it will show in Portland."

It didn’t take long for Heylen to get used to the paddle shift. “The paddle shift is a nice new feature on the car. It’s nice to always have both hands on the steering wheel, it allows you to brake a little deeper in to the corners"

Heylen, who did his first test in Champ Car at the end of 2005 with Conquest racing, said it was very nice to be back with the team again. “Eric’s got a good team of people behind him. The day went smooth, it was nice working with them"