“It was a good, solid day. We didn't make too many big changes today. The team gave me a good car to start with and we made small changes during the morning session. In this afternoon's practice, we didn't change anything. It follows along with a saying that my dad has: 'However you unload is how you run'. We unloaded with a good car and it's been a fairly straightforward day”, said Patrick at the end of the day.
Danica will be looking to get back on track in the Indy Car Series' Point Standings, as she only managed a 14th and an 8th place in the first two races of the season (Homestead-Miami and St. Petersburg). Motegi might be the perfect place to start, since the Motorola driver managed a 4th place career-high on the Twin Ring in 2005.
“I always like racing in Japan. We had a good result in 2005 and it's a place where I'm very comfortable. I love the country and always look forward to being there for the race. I think that makes a difference with how your weekend goes. If you're comfortable and relaxed, things just tend to come a little easier”, admitted Patrick earlier on Thursday.
Second in practice was crowd's favorite Kosuke Matsuura. The Japanese driver will be seeking a first podium appearance at Twin Ring, since his previous performances on home soil in the past 3 years concluded with a 7th, 8th and 9th place respectively. Matsuura scored a best time of 27.026 secs in the afternoon practice session and is looking forward for the big race on Sunday.
“This is the biggest race of the year for me. For most people in the league, it's the Indy 500, but the Motegi race is very special for me as a driver. I couldn't get a good result in the morning session, but the car has been running great all day. The team has been working so hard on my car to win the race in my home country so I am looking forward to the qualifying and hopefully get a good starting position”, said the Super Aguri Panther Racing driver.
The leading duo was followed by Helio Castroneves (27.0496 on 202.295 mph), Tony Kanaan (27.0928 on 201.972), Dan Wheldon (27.1639 on 201.444) and Marco Andretti (27.1833 on 201.300). Defending champion Sam Hornish Jr. had to settle for 7th place, with a best time of 27.2385 (200.892 mph)
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