I caught up with Leo after the race talked with him about his achievement:
AS: Congratulations on your win today. What were the emotions running through your head when you first found out you won?
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| From left to right, third place 16 year-old rookie Nelson Philippe, first place 22 year-old Leonardo Maia, and second place 20 year-old rookie Scott Poirier. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
LM: It was pretty incredible. I didn't know until I asked one of the mechanics in the pit lane, and they told me, and it was unbelievable. I've been working really hard in the off season and in between races. It's just good to have everything come together and to achieve the goals that I set for myself. It's an incredible feeling.
AS: How do you like all the traveling associated with your Barber Dodge career?
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| "I didn't know [I had won] until I asked one of the mechanics in the pit lane, and they told me, and it was unbelievable." (Photo: BarberDodge.com) |
LM: It's nice but you only get to see, you don't really get to experience the city, you just get to kinda see it. Unfortunately we don't get to really have fun in any of the places we go to but it's cool to be in different locations and to see how the people are and what the cities are like. It's really fun.
AS: What would you say is the biggest disadvantage associated with your career right now?
LM: Honestly right now there are no disadvantages.
AS: How are the ladies treating you?
LM: They're fine, especially here (Vancouver).
AS: I am sure you liked those Molson Indy Girls, they weren't too bad.
LM: Every girl here is for some reason!
The next Champ Car/Barber Dodge event takes place in Lexington, Ohio on August 9, 2003.