AROUND THE TRACK Auto racing notebook

IRL officials pleased: IRL officials are encouraged by the first on-track testing of the new aerodynamic package and engine combination designed to reduce speeds beginning with the Indianapolis 500.
Twelve IndyCar Series teams used the new aero package, which includes quarter-inch metal strips, known as wickers, on the top and the bottom of the rear wing and a curved skid plate underneath the car.
The test was held April 2 on the 2 1/2-mile Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where the Indy 500 will be run May 30.
"We're very pleased," said Brian Barnhart, the IRL's chief of racing operations. "We think it was great validation and verification of the countless hours and months of hard work needed to come up with a package for the month of May."
The test marked the first on-track use of the 3.0-liter engine. The results showed speeds were down significantly from Helio Castroneves' 2003 pole-winning run of 231.725 mph, with top laps in the 216 mph range.
"Most of the comments from the drivers have been very positive," Barnhart said.
Barnhart said IRL officials will continue to evaluate the data from teams until the IndyCar Series open test at Indy April 27-28.
IRL officials decided to reduce speeds in the aftermath of the death of driver Tony Renna in testing at Indy and serious injuries to former Indy 500 winner and series champion Kenny Brack in a crash at Texas Motor Speedway during the 2003 season-finale.
The IRL is reducing engines from 3.5 liters, cutting horsepower by about 10 percent and reducing speeds by about 10 mph, beginning at Indy in May.
Quick success: Michael Schumacher and Ferrari have a knack for winning Formula One races at new venues.
The six-time and defending series champion won the inaugural Bahrain Grand Prix on Sunday, just as he won the first United States Grand Prix at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2000 and the first Malaysian Grand Prix in 1999.
Schumacher started on the pole in each event, and teammate Rubens Barrichello finished second in those races.
"I guess it is just coincidence in respect that there is no special secret other than that we are prepared properly in terms of having a very good car and a very good team," Schumacher said. "I have no other explanation."
Schumacher is off to a sensational start, winning all three races so far this season. Up next: the San Marino Grand Prix on April 25.
-- Associated Press