Marcus Armstrong had the fastest lap in IndyCar’s opening practice for the XPEL Grand Prix this afternoon. Armstrong’s lap of 1:44.2714 edge his teammate , Felix Rosenqvist, by 0.0787 seconds.

Pato O’Warsd led the first part of the session before points leader Alwx Palou took the top spot. Arnstrong had been in the top five the entire session and turned his fastest lap late in practice after switching to the alternate tires.

Practice ran under overcast skies and cool, windy conditions. Rain is expec ted overnight but is not expected to be an issue during tomorrow’s activities.

Sting Ray Robb had the only incident of the session, spinning on the exit of turn 14 with about 28 minutes left.

I spent the afternoon driving around to various points on the track. I spent the IndyNXT practice mainly in Canada Corner. I then discovered a new to me spot called the bluffs on the inside of the track. It overlooks the straight between turns 9 and 10. It was fun looking through the trees to watch the cars. It was not a great phot spot, however.

I ended That practice in the carousel. This area used to be pretty empty, but it is now filled with campers. Urban development has come to Road America. Kind sad, but I get that the track needs more space.

One thing I did like was at the top of the turn 5 hill, golf cart parking has been restricted to the outer edge of the area. The place used to be a tangled jungle of lawn chairs, golf carts, even an occasional larger vehicle.

I will work pon getting some photos posted tomorrow. Thanks for following along today.