In many ways, Scott Sharp has a good advantage heading to Japan next week for the Indy Racing League IndyCar Series' fourth trip to Twin Ring Motegi, the 1.5-mile oval circuit owned by engine builder Honda source: paddocktalk.com - Feature by Anne Proffit Sharp, the IRL's iron man won the first race held by the League at the facility and has finished well in the two subsequent contests (ninth in 2004; second last year). The Norwalk, CT native spent time in the country as a child as father Bob was a Datsun (now Nissan) factory driver and car dealer in his area. Scott likes the country, the food and the Twin Ring Motegi track. The 38-year-old veteran, driving for Delphi Fernandez Racing a second year is looking forward to next week's race after scoring top-10 results in the first two races of the protracted 2006 season. "We've been strong at Twin Ring Motegi, which is so different (from the other 1.5-mile ovals) as a track. I'm so enthusiastic and always arrive early to soak in the culture," Sharp explained. Getting around Twin Ring Motegi as quickly as possible presents quite a few challenges to the Indy car drivers. "Turns 1 and 2 are flat out that they present drafting opportunities for our cars. Using the draft well can take you into turns 3 and 4 where you need more grip in the car, where you're off the throttle and using your brakes a lot. "In fact," Sharp explained, "from the exit of turn 4 into turn 1 is the only straight at that track." The exposure for the IndyCar Series teams is extensive at Twin Ring Motegi, home to the sole engine builder Honda. The parent company of tire maker Firestone is in Japan and there are banners throughout the country promoting the tires and the race. "This is a really important trip and to win our first time out there was terrific. Our team's ties to Japan and its economy are essential," Sharp reminded.
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