Barron leads at Fontana.

Arciero-Blair Racing competed in the final race of the 2001 CART season in Southern California over the weekend and Alex Barron finished in ninth place.

Barron, driving the Ford-powered Lola sponsored by Driving 101, was to start 19th for the race on the 2.029-mile oval. However, a Pi Box failure forced Barron to pit on the warm-up lap and he started the 250-lap race at the back of the 26-car field.

Despite this though Barron and the team did not disappoint and raced from the back of the field to lead the race, run in the top ten for over 90 laps; challenging at the front with brilliant speed, driving ability and race strategy.

Barron had the Driving 101 entry in the top-ten by lap 31; top-five by lap 116 and in the lead by lap 119. After regular pit stops the #25 Arciero-Blair entry was back in the top-ten by lap 140 and stayed there for conclusion of the race except during one final pit stop. Due to safety concerns from the officials with the dimming light and poor race conditions, the race was shortened first to 230 laps and then to 220 laps.

Barron was in 11th place and moving up but with four laps to go when a caution flag was flown and the race finished under yellow. The Lola-Ford finished ninth.

"We had a great car today that was balanced and a strong Ford motor," said Barron. "I wanted a stronger finish but with the race shortened it reduced my chances to get closer to the front. The team, the Lola and the Ford were flawless today. It was tough to jump into the car for the last two races of the season and I wanted a good showing for Arciero-Blair Racing. I had a mishap at Australia that was my fault causing us to run a 2000 car here this weekend. This strong finish is a credit to all of them. It was good to run a good race and have my family and friends here; I'm happy with the outcome."

Team owner Larry Blair added: "Running Alex showcased his talent and his experience on running on the difficult super speedways. Running a 2000 chassis and leading the race with it is an achievement for the team. Finishing in the top ten demonstrates our continued desire for a good ending and to run at the front. We are continuing to work on our team and plans for the 2002 season and hope to announce them in the near future."