Indy Pro Series regular Andersen Racing now has its very own test track, even though it will not be able to use it for its IPS squad.
Team owners Dan and John Andersen purchased the former Group Four Test Track in Palmetto, Florida - which features a one-mile road course - and renamed it Andersen RacePark to reflect the new ownership, but will only be able to run their Star Mazda and F2000 cars there as IPS rules do not permit testing at tracks that are unapproved by that series.
The facility includes an 8000sq ft workshop that will house the Pro Series, Star Mazda and F2000 cars, while two dozen additional garages are also located adjacent to pit-lane, making the facility a popular testing venue for other teams. The track is already a favourite of kart racers and amateurs participating in 'arrive-and-drive' programmes.
Dan Andersen said that the purchase makes sense on many levels for the team, which has been fielding multiple entries in the IPS, Star Mazda and F2000 series from its headquarters in New Jersey.
"We can now consolidate our three teams in one building," he pointed out, "The shop space is perfect for our needs, and I can see our efficiency as a team increasing greatly. The Indy Pro Series team is already operating out of the facility. Our F2000 team will relocate there next, probably in late November, followed by the Star Mazda team in early January. Team manager Michelle Kish is relocating to the Tampa area, as are all of our other New Jersey-based employees."
Florida's climate was also a selling point to the team.
"With the warm climate, our winter testing programme - both at our own race track and at other tracks in the south - will benefit," Andersen explained, "Depending on the particular series' rules, we'll be able to test more often, and there is no substitute for seat time. Scheduling test days for the Star Mazda and F2000 cars will be easier and less expensive, and we won't lose time travelling."
Andersen is most excited, however, about the synergies that may develop from the karters who already test there, since Andersen Racing's mission is to provide one solid home and the best training available for future open-wheel stars.
"We're excited about this acquisition, as it fits our team's vision perfectly," he said, "Young karters at our facility will be exposed to our three race teams, which will give them access to our personnel in an almost campus atmosphere. On the other side of the coin, our people will be able to observe first-hand karting talent at Andersen RacePark for possible future driver openings. We feel Andersen RacePark will benefit everyone."
