Scott McLaughlin says qualifying fifth achieved one of his primary goals this weekend.
The Kiwi IndyCar rookie soared to his career-best qualifying result at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, placing himself on the third row.
Speaking after the session, McLaughlin says the result ticks off the first goal of the weekend.
“It was a goal of ours this weekend,” McLaughlin said.
“We really wanted to try and push for that top ten.
“We’ve been close before, especially at St Pete. I’m really proud of the effort from the team.”
McLaughlin credited a ‘methodical’ approach for his qualifying pace.
“We were methodical all day,” he said.
“We just slowly chipped away at it and we turned up with a really good car for qualifying.”
Landing a spot in the Fast Six shootout for the first time, McLaughlin admitted his excitement got the better of him.
“I didn’t quite get the lap in the Fast six, but it takes a bit of time to bring the adrenaline down.
“That’s what I found just then.
“You get so excited, you’re in the fast six, and then you’ve got to settle yourself down and get your mind back on the job.
“Once I get my mindset right and a few other things we’ll be good.”
McLaughlin wasn’t the only Rookie in the Fast Six.
Romain Grosjean snared an incredible pole position for tomorrow’s race – the first of his short IndyCar career.
“Props to Romain,” McLaughlin said.
“It’s amazing for [Grosjean] and the sport for him to come back and get pole so soon.
“It’s been a privilege to be in the rookie class with him and I’m excited to race him tomorrow.”
The GMR Grand Prix is scheduled to start at 6.30 am, Sunday May 16.