RFM Front Page News

VANCOUVER, Canada (February 12, 2004) -- Mario Dominguez has just completed his 2nd year in a CHAMP car driving for Herdez Competition. The 2002 rookie-of-the year won his very first CART event in the rain deluged Australian event of that same year. His background includes the Toyota Atlantic series and the Mexican Formula 3000 series; and Herdez had been with him mostly all the way. It certainly appears they have placed their faith in the right driver. His hard-charging driving style has been some of the most entertaining to watch in the last few years. When I last spoke to Mario in Portland 2003, we were still buzzing about a decision made about his “blocking” moves in Lazarus Ring, Germany (against Sebastien Bourdais). Mario is a very soft-spoken young man. But do not let that fool you. He is a very talented, very fast driver. He will be winning many more races, and I am sure, championships. I thank Mario for taking time to talk to RFM in between testing for OWRS and preparing for the busy 2004 season ahead.

Margot Orenchuk: Mario, congratulations on 6th in the championship hunt this year! That’s a phenomenal achievement for your 2nd season. Have your team got the car where you want it?

Mario Dominguez: We have done quite well for our 2nd year, but I think we still need to improve the car a bit more if we want to fight for the top championship spots. (I think 6th place up from 18th in his 2nd year isn’t anything to sneeze at, but ok Mario! Margot)

MO: Describe “the bump” in Miami this year. How much of a toll physically did that race take on you?

MD: THAT WAS NOT A BUMP.. IT WAS MORE LIKE A RAMP!!! The race was very tough physically, and the weather was really hot.

MO: What is the worst thing that can happen to you to destroy your focus during a race?

MD: Without a doubt, a mechanical problem.

MO: What is you favorite off-track activity?

MD: Go Karting!

MO: What is the one question you never get asked by the media that you would like to be?

MD: What does it take to go fast?

MO: What is the one question you can’t stand being asked by the media?

MD: "Do you like Ovals or road courses [better]?"

MO: What has been the oddest thought you have had while driving?

MD: I don’t know! (I guess he’s too busy driving!)

MO: What would you say your greatest strength as a driver is?

MD: My concentration, my focus.

MO: Is there any other type of racing you have wanted to try?

MD: Formula 1!

MO: What was the high point of 2003 for you?

MD: Mexico City race! (Mario came in 3rd there but I am sure the fans thought he finished 1st!)

MO: What is the strangest thing a fan has asked you to do? And did you do it?

MD: To sign their breasts, and maybe I did.. maybe I didn’t! J

MO: What is your favorite track to drive, and why?

MD: Mexico City, because it is a very fast track, and wide.

MO: Was it easier to concentrate on racing in 2003 without the negative PR drag of teams planning to desert to another series?

MD: Yes, it was.

MO: As you look forward to 2004, what are your personal goals either on or off the track for next year?

MD: To be the best I can be in every way; and if I do that, I am sure I can fight for the championship!

MO: Do you have a ride for 2004?iokij

MD: Yes, I will drive for Herdez again!!!!!!

RFM would like to thank Kevin Lee of Herdez Competition with his assistance in getting this interview to us in such speedy fashion, and we will look forward to cheering Mario and Herdez Competition at Long Beach!

Next: Adrian Fernandez