Conquest Racing thrilled with Houston test

When the checkered flag dropped yesterday marking the end of the second day of testing at MSR Houston, everyone at Conquest Racing had a smile on their face. The team had just completed their first open test of the pre-season with a competitive seventh place on the timing sheets but also without encountering any problems on their DP01.

The rain might have put a damper on testing in dry conditions on day one of the test but the sun was out for day two allowing Conquest Racing to put some very important miles on their new racing machine that had sat back in the race shop in Indianapolis while all other Champ Car teams were out testing in Sebring last month.

“I’m delighted," said an enthused Eric Bachelart, owner of the team. “Honestly after missing out on Sebring we had a lot to do in just one day of testing after it rained on Monday but being seventh quickest at this test shows that we are not far behind. It’s a very positive outcome.

“We had a great test, our times were competitive and we were also able to try out many different set-ups on the car. I really couldn’t ask for more right now. Nelson also did a great job as did the entire team," concluded Bachelart.

Driver Nelson Philippe seconds the team owner’s thoughts. “I’m ecstatic about the results of this test," exclaimed Philippe at the end of the open test. “First of all it was very nice of Eric to count on me. It was a new track for me and a new car for the team. Considering that inexperience, seventh overall is great. It’s a great start for the team to build on in the future."

The final pre-season open test of the Champ Car World Series takes place at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca March 9-10. The teams will then head to Las Vegas at the beginning of April for the season opening race which will be disputed April 8. Conquest Racing PR