Millville, NJ. (November 7, 2010) – The Honda Performance Development-supported Team Honda Research Rally team returned for the third and fourth rounds of the RallyCar US Rallycross Championship held at New Jersey Motorsports Park, finishing 13th and 4th overall. THR returned with Jordan Guitar piloting the 2007 Civic Si.
Changing from the first round, the course was altered to a fraction of its former size, with more dirt sections added in an attempt to increase visibility for a growing fan base. Similar to the first round, each lap featured a jump, and each competitor was required to take the “Joker Lap” during the race, which adding a unique feature and time to that lap. Qualifying and Heat races seeded the top drivers into the Main races.
Utilizing experience gained from Round 1, THR equipped the Civic Si with tires and brakes more suited to dealing with the rigors of tarmac driving, as well as rally dampers to cope with the bumpy dirt sections. Throughout Round 3, this proved a good setup and THR was able qualify for the C Main event. "We finished 13th today, I gained some experience with this style of racing, and have confidence that with the HPD-supported Civic Si, we can find a few more places tomorrow," stated Jordan.
As Round 4 got underway, THR was able to post competitive times through qualifying and the Heat races, and was top-seeded for the C Main. As the race started, a BMW got the jump on everyone off the line, rocketing from fifth to first place, but through the dirt sections, Jordan was able to overtake the BMW before the end of the first lap. Demonstrating strategic use of the "Joker Lap" and maintaining a smooth and consistent line, THR grabbed the win in both the C Main and the B Main, proceeding to the A Main with the top five 2WD cars, and finished 4th overall.
"We had a lot of fun this weekend," Jordan said, "The Honda Performance Development car was reliable all weekend long, and it was great to have the opportunity to drive it. We will continue to make improvements and will return for the 2011 season."
