The tail of the cyclone

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Free practice for the Castrol Toyota Racing Series was cut short today as the edge of former tropical cyclone Fehi rolled in from the west.

Free practice for the Castrol Toyota Racing Series was cut short today as the edge of former tropical cyclone Fehi rolled in from the west, heralded by strong winds and bringing rain squalls to the central North Island resort town..

The first session, held in fine conditions, was topped by Richard Verschoor with a 1:26.025.

Second fastest was championship leader Marcus Armstrong on 1:26.124.

Having his first run in his 'all new' FT50, Brendon Leitch was third fastest. The ITM car has been extensively rebuilt since Leitch's crash at Hampton Downs and is now based around a new 'tub'.

The fast laps were all set early in the session. 

By the time the cars were due to roll out for session two, the storm had arrived. Practice was suspended for the day and the 30 minutes will be added to tomorrow's sessions.