Scott Pruett in the Rocketsports Trans Am Jaguar XKR

Rocketsports Racing, Jaguar's American Trans Am team won round one in St. Petersburg, Florida on February 23, 2003. Scott Pruett, previous two-time series winner, lead all but one lap in his Jaguar XKR to take back to back wins at the circuit. His previous win had come 16 years prior. Scott also won the 2002 Rolex 24 in an XKR, which he co-drove with team mate and team owner Paul Gentilozzi. He managed his tires brilliantly, as he was able to respond to any challenges offered, including from reigning Trans Am champion Boris Said charging through the field after starting from the back. Scott also lead from the pole which he captured by a mere 15 Thousandths of a second. It was a spirited but gentlemanly race with few incidents. Five of the Eight Jaguar XKR's finished in the top ten, securing first, third and fourth of the top five.

For those not familiar with the Trans Am it is the oldest continuous American Road racing series. It is features closed-fendered, production-based, V-8-powered sports sedans with annual production figures over 1000 units. While open to more competitors, the Jaguar, Mustang, Corvette and Camaro are the dominant models used. The race distance is 100 miles and the circuit length dictates the number of laps. The races are conducted in all suitable weather conditions.

In conjunction with this weekend's activities Jaguar and Rocketsport have announced the introduction of a production based AJ-v8 engine that will debut later in the season. The configuration will produce 650 brake horsepower from a 4.5-liter all aluminum block with lightweight racing pistons and connecting rods. The high flow 32-valve heads and heavy-duty crankshaft will enable the engine to rev above the 9000-RPM mark. In addition the accessories will include an engine management system that will communicate with the series required ignition system and special exhaust headers. The Dtm inspired Carbon fibre body will wrap this RPerformance XKR and allow it to attain a blinding 3.2 second 0 to 60 time, a 10.8 second quarter mile, and a top speed of 180 miles per hour.

Jaguar has announced a contingency sponsor program that rewards not only jaguar drivers but also all series drivers will have a chance for A two-year lease on an XKR. Award categories are for the Pole position, top three Jaguar Drivers, and most points delivered for the manufacturer's Championship. This year the Safety car services for will be provided by a Jaguar X-type.

With the Formula One team looking to a better season, Jaguar racing in America should provide the Atlantic fans with an additional source of pride in their favorite Marque. The series next stop will be in Long Beach California along with the Bridgestone ChampCar World Series powered by Ford on April 13, 2003.

Jaguars lead the field at St Petersburg FL season opener. Scott Pruett in the silver XKR with second place team mate/owner Paul Gentilozzi on the outside.

For more information on the series and upcoming events: www.trans-amseries.com

Paul Gentilozzi and Rocketsports Racing: www.rocketsportsracing.com

About the author: W. Robert Phelps, III is an Aviation Consultant and Corporate Pilot. He is also a staff Writer and Photographer for Jaguar Magazine (Australia), and has nearly 30 years of experience as a Jaguar owner. He is a Virginia native, who now resides in Florida.

This article was supplied with the very kind permission of The Jaguar Magazine, which is available in the U.S. and Canada at bookstores or by subscription at www.jaguarmagazine.com, Copyright © 2003 W. Robert Phelps, III. All photos Copyright © 2003 W. Robert Phelps, III.