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Monday, February 3 Updated: February 11, 11:21 AM ET  Comments on IRL drivers ESPN.com We spotlighted IRL drivers Al Unser Jr., George Mack and Roger Yasukawa. Here are your thoughts on their '02 campaigns and prospects for next season:
Little Al proved a few times last year that he has some racing left in him. Qualifying 2nd and 3rd the last two races after returning from rehab was impressive. This year he's fit, hungry, and ready to go. This might be the best chance he's had for a strong season since 94-95 when Penske was still strong. Look for him to win a few and finish in the top 5 in points. Dave Badics South Bend, Ind.
I'm 45 and an alcoholic, I've been sober over 7 years now. Life in all aspects has turned around 180 degrees. If I can do it, so can Al Unser Jr. His best racing is yet to come! GO Junior! Michael D. Gardner Coarsegold, Calif.
He is going to be great in 2003. I expect him to win a race or two and finish in the top five in points. Sean Garrett Albuquerque, N.M.
I've watched Little Al and Micheal race for the past 20 years. They're both icons and it will be a sad day when neither one is racing. I hope Little Al has a great year but I would love to see Michael win the Indy 500 this year -- what a way to retire! Dan Bidinger Rochester, Minn.
I certainly hope that George gets another opportunity to prove himself but as you say, it's very expensive. I commend 310 Racing last year's attempt. I only wish some of the heavies like Andretti, Foyt or others would give him a chance an American driver a chance at winning. I think he can be just as good as the foreign drivers. But I doubt very serious that Michael or A.J. or other would do that, what do you think?
P.S. I am American with African decent and have followed all types of motor racing all my life. I am however getting impatient of these owners (who are mostly Caucasian) not giving US a chance.
It's hard to tell how good G-Mack can be with the competitively underfunded 310 Racing team. I don't doubt for a minute that he can drive with leaders, but we may never find out. He's another GREAT marketing opportunity, much like Sarah Fisher. There MUST be some company, institution, or community that truly believes in (not just pay lip-service to) equality and can PROMOTE THEIR DRIVER to untapped market segments should step forward for either of these two. Potential? Yes, in many ways. Will we see it? Hopefully so. As it stands, a Top 10 in points would be a Cinderella year, but Top 20 would be nothing to sneeze at, either. David Zehr Goshen, Ind.
George Mack with right funding should be able to run with the best of the them. The IRL like the rest of motorsports needs to add some color to its ranks. Last year with no money behind him -- he was only 1 good race away from "Rookie of the Year," finished 16th in points and finished much higher than fully-funded teams at the Indy 500. I'm African-American and like many we like forward to his continued success. One a major company steps up to bat for George Mack then let's spotlight him -- Once he's given a true shot he will win just like he did in IKF. Jesse Askew New York
Yasukawa? Well, it's interesting that a guy most have never heard of suddenly gets a ride in a series gaining popularity. Must be decent. Otherwise, he'd be in CART. Toby Donio Redmond, Wash.  Send this story to a friend | Most sent stories
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