May 09, 2002
BA Racing have exceeded their own expectations by qualifying in 6th and 7th positions for this weekends Austrian Grand Prix.

The whole team felt that a top 10 position was possible but did not count on having both cars so far into the top 10.

"From previous experiences on this track, I was not confident of anything special this weekend, so to qualify in the top 6 is fantastic!", commented Lawrence, "Not only is it a great result at a track were I felt I would be very uncompetitive it is also my best qualifying position of 2002. Also, there are a few positives to be taken from the fact that I didn't get the best out of the car. All through practice I felt that I was on the limit, and part way through qualifying, then suddenly a groove seemed to open up in the circuit and I just drove through it...I am sure another 3 quarters of a second 'could' have been caught today."

Antonio Irissari was pleased with his overall result, but not the position on the grid.

"I'm very disappointed", commented the Colombian, "Disappointed because I feel the team was capable of 3rd or 4th today. We tried hard, but P6 and P7 isn's so bad at all. I think we have a good race setup and there is more speed in the car so I expect to be in the points on race day."

The team is especially pleased because the strong showing will undoubtable impress the sponsors they have in attendance this weekend; Visa, Cosworth & Petronas.

"Well, I won't lie to you!", said Lawrence, "It makes our job easier from a commercial viewpoint if we get good results when the sponsors are here!'