Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

By David Swarts

Moments ago Daytona International Speedway spokesperson Larry Lawrence announced to the media that Friday afternoon’s program of AMA racing and qualifying is on hold due to the weather.

It has been raining heavily since 12:25 p.m. Eastern Time.

A memo titled, “Rain Delay situation as of 2:25 p.m. Friday” was distributed in the media center and contained the following information about the AMA’s priorities for Friday:

1. To run the Pro Honda Oils U.S. Supersport and Genuine Suzuki Accessories Superstock races

2. To run Chevy Trucks U.S. Superbike and MBNA 250cc Grand Prix qualifying

3. In the event qualifying cannot run: The Superbike grid will be determined by Thursday’s qualifying times, and the 250cc GP grid will be determined by 2002 250cc GP points, order of pre-entries received then by the order of post-entries received.

4. BMW Boxer Cup qualifying results from Thursday will stand.

5. SPEED Channel is currently broadcasting live and will continue to broadcast until 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time minimum, even though its live programming window is scheduled to extend from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

Daytona International Speedway Operations is standing by to operate up to three jet driers.

AMA V.P., Director of Communications Kerry Graeber confirmed that the BMW Boxer Cup event was not under AMA sanction and that the BMW Boxer Cup may practice, qualify or race in rainy conditions if organizers of that series decide to.