Dixon test raises pressure at PacWest.

PacWest's Indy Lights leader Scott Dixon is all set for his first CART group test alongside regular drivers Mark Blundell and Mauricio Gugelmin.

Although little is being read into the run at Laguna Seca, the New Zealander's performances in both the CART support series and his sporadic solo outings in the Reynard Champcar have brought him to the verge of a ride in the senior category. Neither Blundell nor Gugelmin have had the chance to shine this season because of mechanical problems, and the rumour mill is beginning to turn.

PacWest's Indy Lights leader Scott Dixon is all set for his first CART group test alongside regular drivers Mark Blundell and Mauricio Gugelmin.

Although little is being read into the run at Laguna Seca, the New Zealander's performances in both the CART support series and his sporadic solo outings in the Reynard Champcar have brought him to the verge of a ride in the senior category. Neither Blundell nor Gugelmin have had the chance to shine this season because of mechanical problems, and the rumour mill is beginning to turn.

Both regulars insist that they will still be on board at Bruce McCaw's operation in 2001, but Dixon's showing at Laguna could increase the pressure on them to perform in the six remaining rounds of the CART series. The Kiwi passed an unofficial 'rookie test' at Putnam Park last month, and will have sole use of one of the two cars available in California tomorrow and Friday. Blundell and Gugelmin will share a second machine.

Paddock gossip suggests that, should the test go well, Dixon could join the grid at Surfers' Paradise in October, adding to the speculation about his long-term future with the team. Indy Lights team-mate Tony Renna is also expected to get a run in the Champcar before too long.

[Source: www.speedvision.com]

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