Kyle Kaiser and the World Speed team travelled to St. Petersburg Florida this past weekend to contest rounds three and four of the Pro Mazda Championship. The 1.8 mile track marked the first street course for Kyle, currently the youngest racer in the Pro Mazda field. “The street course is very different from road courses I’ve raced on,” said Kaiser. “The different track surfaces really effect the tire degradation throughout the event, which has been an interesting learning experience. Also, with so many cars racing in such tight quarters it makes for some intense racing.”
In round three Kaiser qualified in the fifth position just 3 tenths off of pole. In the first lap of the race Kaiser got tangled up in some early fights for position and had to visit the pit lane to repair some damage. This put him at the very back of the field. “We’ve learned so much these past few races,” noted Kaiser. “Dealing with adversity has made me a better driver overall, and encourages me to continue to work hand in hand with the team.” By race end Kaiser had secured his third consecutive top ten and was in the top five fastest drivers during the race.
In round four Kaiser was gridded on the second row, and brought the #18 home in fifth position for his first top five finish in the series. “This was a solid weekend for us,” noted WSM Team Owner Telo Stewart. “Kyle did a great job on his first street course and really showed good speed in the qualifying and race sessions. Saturday was tough with having to pit, but Kyle didn’t let that phase him and he kept pushing himself and the team forward. This great attitude, and determination is what allowed him to improve even further in round four.” Kaiser added, “We had a strong race today, and I’m happy to bring home a top five finish for the team.”
Kaiser and the #18 Intervision/NetApp/Juniper Networks/Riverbed sponsored Pro Formula Mazda head to Lucas Oil Raceway in Indiana next. Round five of the series take place May 25th on the first oval race of the season. This race is part of the historic “Night Before Indy” event.