Xbox Falcon shows great speed in drama filled day at the Bathurst 1000
October 9, 2015
BATHURST, NSW, 09 OCTOBER 2015: Qualifying was abandoned at the Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 just as Scott Pye was on the first of his flying laps in the Xbox Falcon FG X. The accident of Chaz Mostert on the run down to Forest Elbow led to a track closure and no further activity on the 6.2km road circuit.
The day had been one of continued improvement for the DJR Team Penske Ford with both Scott Pye and Marcos Ambrose setting very competitive times. After Ambrose ended his session in fifth position, Scott Pye ran the final session and lit the timing screen up with an outstanding 2:05.23, and for some time held the practice record at Mt Panorama. Pipped by Jamie Whincup in the closing minutes of the final practice session, the team were very happy with the speed and balance of the No 17 Falcon.
With Qualifying not being completed the DJR Team Penske crew waited for news on a rescheduling of the program with the possibility of a new Qualifying session being added to the Saturday morning program.
Regardless of the outcome, Pye is set to continue his charge with all eyes fixed firmly on a Top 10 spot in the afternoon Shootout.
Scott Pye – No 17 Xbox Falcon FG X
"The guys really tuned the Xbox Falcon up overnight and it was evident as soon as Marcos jumped in this morning. A P5 for Marcos set us up well for the final practice.
"I was very happy with the car and the times showed that we had made some good gains. Every time we hit the track we do better so far this weekend. A P2 was a great reward for the team. Onto qualifying and obviously it was terrible to see what happened with Chaz.
"It will be a big day tomorrow and hopefully we can get the Xbox Falcon into the shootout then focus on the race on Sunday."
Ryan Story – Managing Director DJR Team Penske
"It was a sobering end to the day. All of our thoughts are with Chaz, Eddie and Annie and the entire team at Prodrive. They are close friends and Chaz has a close connection to our team. We wish him well. Also to the Flag Marshalls who were on station on the top of the Mountain, our thoughts are with you.
"From our point of view today, we showed good car speed. Scotty did a great job in the car and Marcos is going quicker every time he gets in it. It is encouraging signs as we move into the weekend."