April 11, 2002
Mapes-VO continued there recent good form in a nice qualifying display at Imola, Mikko Jakonen put his car 4th where as Kieran Ryan managed 8th in the most competitive GPVWC field to date.

Although Mikko was impressive he was relatively downbeat about his performace "The track surface was dirty and I had great difficulties in controlling the car during the practise sessions. This is a challenging track, and as I got 2 critical corners right only in the last few tries of the qualifying session, I wasn't able to get the absolute maximum out of the car. But 2nd row is a great place to attack from, and I will be driving for the podium."

Kieran however had great expectations ahead "Today went well; better then what my practice ran. During the practice I was doing low 1m 26. aiming for a mid 1m 25. but then I started to alter my setup to try and iron out the rear in balance - big mistake. Everything I tryed went to failure. I just got slower and slower. Eventually having to settle for it. My biggest problem was just before the 2nd split, that chicance. It was hard, I'm used to cutting a little over that, but I wanted to qualify so I took it safe, most likely to safe. 8th is good, but not great. Mikko's position has pushed it to 2-1 in his favour. The competition is getting higher, but come race day, rain or shine I'll do good."

Its looking like a good race for the Mapes-VO team.