The JSI Motorsports team finally figured out how to qualify at Mesa Marin. While the team has managed to run in the top five in almost every race they competed in, they have had troubles in the previous races with tires for qualifying, and only posting a best qualifying run of 16th, this week however the team figured out the tire set-up and posted the 2nd fastest time in qualifying, missing the pole by just 15 thousandths of a second.

With the top six inverted, Nick started 5th, had moved his way to 4th place and was challenging for third on the 55th lap when the third place car got into a lapped car, got sideways and came up into Nick, caught his left front tire and sent Nick airborne and into the turn 2 wall, virtually destroying the car.

There is no way Nick and the team can get the car repaired by the next race in Las Vegas, nor do they have the financial resources to get it done that quickly. Nick is hoping to find a ride for the next few races or to work with a team that has an extra car util they can get the car repaired or replaced.

Nick still holds a 4 point advantage in the Rookie of the Year Standings. You can reach Nick at Nikjoans@aol.com with any information or suggestions.

Source: Nick Joanides
Posted: 4/18/99