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Affonso Giaffone Gears up for Season Finale

7 October 1997

Affonso Giaffone has a big weekend ahead of him at Las Vegas International Speedway. He knows that a strong performance is necessary and within reach. The rookie-of-the-year candidate, who received a career-best finish of 4th in the VisionAire 500k, looks to close his IRL season with a top finish and a prestigious award.

[ Affonso Giaffone ]
Affonso Giaffone

Current IRL Driver Point Standing: 15 -- 33 points out of 10th place
Current Rookie Point Standing: 2 -- 16 points behind the rookie leader

A Rookie Driver's Goals: During the first half of the season, this first-year driver has experienced a string of misfortunes. With positive on-going changes, Giaffone and the #17 GM-Brasil team have been making a steady charge towards the front, resulting in 1 top 10 and 1 top 5 finish in the past 3 races.

"I have to give a lot of credit to (crew chief) Brian Nott and the whole Chitwood Motorsports crew," said Giaffone, who jumped to 2nd in the rookie point standings. "This rookie team has really worked together and the results are starting to show. Our main goal this year is to learn as much as possible and improve at each race. I think Vegas will be the time for us to show what we've accomplished."

Las Vegas International Speedway: The 1.5 mile oval is the scene of Giaffone's first IRL performance (1996). The first-year driver started 23rd and climbed through the field to finish 10th -- the highest finishing rookie.

"This is a spectacular track and extremely smooth. This will be my second time racing here in the IRL series and I hope to continue my success here."

Giaffone notes: "Tires will be a crucial element during the weekend. Last year sand was invading the track and it was slippery and more abrasive to the tires. Hopefully this year that won't be an issue."

Rookie-of-the-Year? : Giaffone is still within striking distance of rookie leader, Jim Guthrie. With only 16 points out of the lead, anything can happen.

"It is always special to receive an award, and this award, being in such a series as IRL, would be a big honor for me. It will be very special if it happens and it would be my first award at a top level series."

In the Indy Lights series (1995), Giaffone received Rookie of the Year and Spirit of Mario Andretti awards. He was also Formula 3 Rookie of the Year (1990) and again in the Brazilian Formula Ford Series (1987). With one IRL race remaining this year, the young driver may yet capture another Rookie-of-the-Year title.

Giaffone's IRL Record At Las Vegas International Speedway: He started 23rd, finished 10th (the highest finishing rookie)