MERRITTVILLE: Ball Hockey tournament and more...

THOROLD, ON - Merrittville Speedway Drivers and Crew Members and other personalities will participate in some pre-season fun in the first annual Ball Hockey International Tournament set for Saturday April 9th.

“It’ll be a fun day for our competitors,” relates (GM) Erica Bicknell, adding, “and our race fans … they are most welcome to watch and cheer on their favorites.”

Proceeds of the event will benefit the 2005 Merrittville Speedway Point Fund.

Charlene Dooley – wife of defending Hoosier Stock Point Champion Mike Dooley – a Ladies Race Series Competitor and veteran Ball Hockey competitor will be coordinating the Tournament to be held at the BHI Complex at Lock 3 in St. Catharines.

“I’ve been pleasantly surprised,” relates Dooley, “the response has been overwhelming … for the first year to have 10 teams entered … who knows where next will take us.”

“The teams have come from all divisions,” adds Dooley, “we’re hoping that an event like this will help develop some camaraderie amongst the race teams before the racing season begins.”

Three Games will be guaranteed for each team of 14 that must include 1 Female player minimum. Teams wanting to register can call BHI St. Catharines at 905-682-2835 or Charlene at 905-935-6558. Entry Fee is $150.00 per team.

Participants for the Tournament must be 16 years of age.

There will be prizes for the Top 2 teams in addition to MVP Prizes and a Post event BBQ.

Both BHI St. Catharines and Welland locations (at Niagara College) will soon be taking registrations for their Spring and Summer Seasons for individuals or teams. For further information call the St. Catharines location or Welland at 905-734-1040.

BHI will present a full Dirt Weekly Racing Series Event at Merrittville Speedway Saturday June 11th.

For further information on the 2005 Racing Season call 905-892-8266 or visit http://www.merrittvillespeedway.com/.

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PRACTICE DAY TO SET OPENING NIGHT LINEUP AT NEW MERRITTVILLE

THOROLD, ON - In preparation for its 54th consecutive season, Merrittville Speedway will be hosting a Practice Day for all divisions Saturday April 23rd.

Every Saturday Night, the DIRT-sanctioned ¼ mile d-shaped oval presents as part of it’s 2005 DIRT Weekly Racing Series – the headlining L. St. Amand Enterprises 358 Modifieds, Original Pizza Logs Sportsmen, Seneca Niagara Casino Dwarf Cars/Mod Lites, Hoosier Stocks and 4 Cylinders. While the day will focus on these classes – any dirt race car is welcome.

With the 2005 schedule tentatively set, events include the return of the Empire Super Sprints as well as second visits of two Bicknell Racing Products sponsored series – the BRP Big Block Modified Tour and the BRP Can Am Super Stocks – several of these teams may attend the daytime session.

It will be the first time that Merrittville Speedway weekly competitors and visitors see the new surface that was put down in the fall by Merrittville Speedway Officials and Ed MacPherson Construction staff. More than 200 loads of new clay were worked in to both the Stock Car and Kart Tracks in preparation for the new season.

Both the Grandstand and Pit Gates are scheduled to open at 9:00 AM with the first cars on the track after Inspection of all cars starts at 10:00.

Race Teams must bring all their safety equipment including one way radio systems that will be mandatory in all divisions in 2005. Scanners, Performance Security Systems or the new RaceCeiver Systems will be required. Race Teams may purchase their RaceCeiver from Bicknell Racing Products and they will also be available on Practice Day.

2005 Merrittville Speedway Stock Car Members will be able to pick up their Contingency Decal Packages for the exclusive program that last season saw more than $83,000 value awarded. 2005’s totals could approach $100,000 by season end.

Race fans are encouraged to attend the test and tune day as Grandstand Admission is free.

Race fans may wish to purchase a reserved or general admission Grandstand Season Pass or economical Family Passes or Flexbooks for use during the upcoming season. All Ticket levels will be available also on Practice Day.

Once the 358 Modifieds and Sportsmen have their cars dialed in each division will run time trials which will set the field for April 30th’s Season Opener presented by Hoosier Tire Canada.

In off season news, Merrittville Speedway’s 2004 Champions – Pete Bicknell, Scott Billing, Mike Dooley and Trevor Goulding have all announced plans to defend their titles. 2004 Merrittville Sportsmen Champion and runner-up Mr. DIRT Sportsmen Champion Adam Ferri will be moving up to compete for Rookie of the Year honors in the 358 Modified Division in 2005.

For further information on Merrittville Speedway’s 2005 season, contact 905-892-8266 or visit http://www.merrittvillespeedway.com/.

CHAMP CAR: Glock signs with Rocketsports

Sounds like the new Schumacher... and I thought they signed him (and dumped Tag) because he's showing up with $4 million for Gentilozzi.... Silly me. (g.m.)

LANSING, MI – Rocketsports Racing announced today that it has signed a deal with former Formula One driver Timo Glock to drive the team’s second entry for the 2005 Bridgestone Presents the Champ Car World Series Powered by Ford season. The young German driver will pilot the No. 8 DHL Global Ford-Cosworth/Lola/Bridgestone starting at the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach on April 8-10.

The 23 year old was the first driver to graduate to Formula One through the Deutsche Post’s "Speed Academy”. Glock started his driving career at the age of 15, winning several karting championships before moving to and winning two championships in the BMW Formula ADAC Series. In 2002 and 2003, Glock competed in the International German Formula 3 Championship and International Formula 3 Euro Series respectively.

Recognized as one of the most promising young German drivers by Formula One team owner Eddie Jordan, Glock landed a permanent test driver position with Jordan in 2004. While in Montreal for the Canadian Grand Prix, circumstances moved Glock from Friday test driver to Sunday race driver. He was one of the few drivers in Formula One to score points during his debut when he finished seventh.

Glock looked toward Champ Car after Jordan sold the F1 team at the end of 2004. “I decide right away to look at Champ Car,” said Glock. “With the class of drivers in the series, the 2005 championship will be extremely competitive and portray it as the world-class series that it is.

After our first test I was impressed with the strength of the Rocketsports crew and my engineer, David Watson. After Fontana I came to enjoy working with the crew and Paul. Paul is a crazy team boss and a driver, so he understands me as a driver and that helps create a competitive team.”

The Rocketsports organization expanded its efforts to Champ Car in 2003 after nearly 20 years in sports car racing and four championships. In 2004, Rocketsports grew to a two car effort and captured their first professional open-wheel victory in round eight of the Champ Car World Series at Road America.

Gentilozzi echoed the thoughts of Jordan. “Timo is a very technical driver,” described Gentilozzi. “He knows what to expect with each change of the car and provides extensive input. We had very successful tests in Fontana and Sebring and feel Timo will play a role in taking us to victory circle.”

The Rocketsports duo of Glock and Ryan Hunter-Reay combines rookie and veteran talent for the upcoming season. This pairing, along with a dynamic crew under the direction of team manager Phil Howard, expects to put Rocketsports solidly into the 2005 championship battle. Glock is also a favorite to win the coveted Rookie of the Year Title.
-RSR-

INDUSTRY NEWS: Entertainment activities expand for Whitlock Motorsports

WYOMING, ON – Three years ago Whitlock Motorsports was contracted by Ford of Canada to provide a mobile exhibit to travel across the country in conjunction with appearances of the CASCAR Super Series.



That unique display was set in front of a giant ‘packed grandstand’ mural that back-dropped a simulated pit lane complete with race car, pit wall and all the tools of the pros. The Pit Stop Tour made over 35 stops at race venues, Ford Fast Lane locations and other events. But one component of that Tour became very popular, and has blossomed into an entertainment division for the Wyoming- based Whitlock organization.

"Last year, our Tire Change Games logged over 30 event days in several states and provinces" said Dave Whitlock. "We were in a state fair in MO for a NAPA chain, in Barrie for a school board ‘trades’ day, in TN for Eaton Aeroquip, in Baltimore twice for conventions, as well as the Molson Indy, Speedorama and several other functions including six store openings around Toronto for PartSource."

Don Brooks, resident game-guy for Whitlock just returned from Miami where he launched their newest Game creation at the annual GMAC convention in the Ritz Carlton South Beach.

"The NY-based agency that hired us wanted something special" said Brooks. "They adopted our proposal and we created a full-size cutaway clone of the #25 Chevrolet Monte Carlo sponsored by GMAC and driven by Kyle Busch in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series." Busch is expected to win the Rookie of the Year honours on the Cup circuit this season.

"This new 2-station Game more than doubles the fun. Two people playing at one time can compete against their own clock, and against each other. We can create teams and many other mission-specific competitions, and the full-size body offers many additional branding opportunities for our clients and their functions."

"The other part of our increased ‘show-biz’ activity combines the Games with a show car and other race-related components. Motorsports is fast becoming something that most everyone can relate to; last year, we were part of a motorsports-theme hospitality function for the client’s customers in attendance at the Society of Toxicologists convention!"

When asked where this new business comes from, Brooks states: "It’s simple – satisfied previous customers, and the web. Bart Garner of NTech has created three different sites for us and is a search engine guru. When they search on ‘tire change game’ we’re the only ones out there ready to come to their function, which are more typically conventions, seminars, shows, fairs etc. than race events. We now have two single Games and the new double, and I have quoted almost twenty events for this year already."

For event summaries, testimonials and pics of How it Works - see www.pitstoptour.com

For more information on booking a Pit Stop Challenge for your corporate or social event contact: Don Brooks // Sponsor & Media Relations // Whitlock Motorsports // Direct: T 519-243-2031 // F 519-243-1432
E-mail: don@whitlockmotorsports.com

DIRT: Coveted By Many, Mr. DIRT Championship Earned By A Select Few

By DIRT MotorSports PR

WEEDSPORT, N.Y. – On the track a driver's winning formula for the overall Mr. DIRT title is quite simple.

Step 1: Establish some weekly dominance at a hometrack, fill the summer with mid-week travel plans gaining success on the road, and then maintain a Modified durable enough to survive two months of non-stop, season-ending, extra-distance competition on the weekends.

But away from the track, attempt to figure out some unknown variables and instantly the equation becomes much more difficult.

Step 2: Log substantial hours of preparation, combine a high degree of determination and unquenchable level of self-motivation, and throw in a flexible bank account, loyal sponsor, garage full of spare parts and capable teammates, along with a sufficient amount of good fortune.

While a precise mixture of ingredients for this two-rung ladder may have grown rather complex over time, on paper the recipe for crowning the newest overall 2005 Hoosier Tire-Sunoco Race Fuels Mr. DIRT champion remains a matter of basic arithmetic.

Every driver qualified for an Advance Auto Parts Super DIRT Series event earns points toward the season-long big-block Modified championship, with those same points combined with the best-five feature finishes at a driver's home track to determine the overall champion. In the companion 358-Modified, Sportsman and Pro Stock divisions, bonus points are awarded to the top hometrack performers while actual points are offered during their own season-long Series championship events. Regional bonus points are also included for Sportsman and Pro Stock competitors only.

Those are the formats used today. However, when DIRT MotorSports™ was born in 1976 only two weekly tracks were sanctioned, unlike the 26 that are ready to fly the DIRT banner in '05. The highly coveted title distinction meant little to those that raced outside DIRT of Central New York tracks Cayuga County Fair Speedway in Weedsport and Rolling Wheels Raceway in Elbridge. Will Cagle captured the inaugural points crown when all that mattered was racing the most and beating up on weekly low-buck opponents. Cagle repeated the feat in 1978 and '79, garnering track championships at Cayuga County, Rolling Wheels and Canandaigua Speedway both years.

The 1980s arrived and so did a half-dozen new tracks, expanding the growing DIRT circuit as far east and west in the Empire State and north into Canada. Separate but equal Central New York and Eastern New York divisions were designated with special events at each track counting toward the overall Mr. DIRT title. A new points system was incorporated in 1981 to handle the influx of newly-sanctioned speedways as well as the greater number of drivers' now available to seek the prestigious Mr. DIRT points crown that was growing annually in stature.

Still another major change in the system of points accumulation took place in 1982 whereas only the total points accrued at a driver's best track were added to those earned at select in-season extra points events. The revision was designed to dismiss the advantage of those drivers who could race three times a week while more fairly award the top participants at every DIRT-member facility. While an informal double-points trail was first introduced in 1980, also new in '82 was what is now recognized today ---then officially known as CAM2--- as the Advance Auto Parts Super DIRT Series.

More variations to the points scheme came in 1983 as only the best 15 hometrack finishes plus a driver's highest seven CAM2 finishes were used to determine the Mr. DIRT champion. Furthermore, points could only be earned at DIRT member tracks from May through Labor Day. With the addition of numerous small-block tracks to the DIRT fold, Tony Corcoran was crowned the first-ever Mr. DIRT 320-Modified champion by season's end.

Total hometrack points were again redeemable in 1984 and the entire Modified and 320-Modified Championship Trails awarded points toward the respective Mr. DIRT titles. Clearly, the more DIRT events a racer supported the better his chances. To discourage track officials from favoring their regular drivers, only one regular-point feature event was allowed per night.

The current hometrack bonus points system was instituted in 1985. In theory, a track could run 20 events (minimum 7 required) or even 50 events, yet the speedway champion would still be allotted 1000 points. Actual points were also still collected in the post-season champ trail races for both of DIRT's top open-wheel divisions. This system prevailed through the 1988 race season, at which time the first-ever DIRT-sanctioned event on pavement was officially recorded.

In 1989 a unified 31-race Mr. DIRT Tour was proposed but later rejected due to individual track promoters' reluctance to lose weekly regulars on account of high-paying special events run elsewhere. However, the Super DIRT Series and the inaugural DIRT-Asphalt Challenge Series did become part of the Mr. DIRT Championship that year and offered bonus points toward the overall title.

While the pavement parade expired at the end of the 1992 season, the Super DIRT Series remained strong and played a significant role in the title hopes of every aspiring Mr. DIRT champion. In fact, as the new millennium was first ushered in, the Super DIRT Series expanded to include the old Mr. DIRT champ trail making it the focal point of the entire seventh-month season.

Just as the headline big-block Modified and 358-Modified teams chased championship points through the 80s, Mike Button was recognized as the inaugural Mr. DIRT Sportsman champion in 1990. The first-ever full-fender titlist was declared in 1995 with Steve Pesarek claiming the highest honor bestowed in the Pro Stock ranks.

Despite the means in which DIRT MotorSports™ has altered its ultimate point chases to fit the times, the list of drivers encompassing more than 70 championships has yet to produce a fluke. While the 1997 season ended in a virtual tie, leaving some to believe it still remains imperfect, DIRT staffers retained their smiles at the conclusion of DIRT's 29th season as 2004 Mr. DIRT Modified champion Gary Tomkins collected $67,000 in point fund awards in November ceremonies.

Again offering a lucrative first-place prize to highlight DIRT MotorSports™ 30th season, long-time followers can recall better than most the $3,000 check handed out to 'Wiley Will' when DIRT's Bicentennial Banquet closed out that first season 29 years earlier.

The DIRT MotorSports™ Advance Auto Parts Modified Series is brought to fans across the Northeast by several sponsors and partners, including series sponsors Dynomax Performance Exhaust, Hoosier Racing Tire, Sunoco Race Fuels and DART Machinery. Promotional Partners include AMB i.t., RACEceiver and Zippo Lighters and the contingency sponsors are Bicknell Racing Products, Bilstein Shocks, MSD Ignitions and Wrisco Industries.

DIRT: Mr. DIRT Points System Formatted For All Four Touring Divisions

By DIRT MotorSports PR

WEEDSPORT, N.Y. – 2005 marks the 30th straight season that top big-block Modified teams will be contending for the coveted Hoosier Tire-Sunoco Race Fuels Mr. DIRT Championship. Every driver qualified for an Advance Auto Parts Super DIRT Series event earns points toward the season-long championship, with those points combined with the best-five feature finishes at a driver's home track to determine the overall champion.

Points are maintained throughout the season by DIRT MotorSports™ NorthEast chief handicapper and official points keeper Gary Spaid. The new point system implemented for big-block Modifieds in 2005 awards drivers not only for their consistency along the entire 25-race Advance Auto Parts SDS, but also for top finishes posted at a designated home track through Labor Day.

Championship points are awarded for feature events only, with Super DIRT Series winners collecting 100 and the last-place finisher earning 40. Those drivers that fail to qualify for the main event automatically receive 10 show up points. The hometrack points formula awards the race winner 60 points down to 20 for starting the main event. In tabulating hometrack bonus points, only feature race finish points are included and heat race points, lap leader points, etc. are not figured in.

The same point format for 358-Modified, Sportsman and Pro Stock divisions remains intact from the previous year. Along with valuable Series points, hometrack bonus points are also figured in for all three Mr. DIRT Championships while Regional bonus points are counted toward the overall title in only the Sportsman and Pro Stock classes.

An official DIRT License must be issued from the DIRT NorthEast office on or before the end of the business day on July 31 for a driver to be eligible for the posted point fund awards. Licenses purchased after that date will still be valid yet only insurance benefits and pit gate reductions will be afforded. Temporary licenses will be available for purchase at all Super DIRT Series events yet all drivers must still own a Primary or Secondary 2005 DIRT License to receive any post-season awards that are handed out annually at the DIRT MotorSports™ Banquet.

Official Super DIRT Series point standings will be posted on the DIRT MotorSports™ website following each event while the first listing of overall Mr. DIRT Championship points will become available after Labor Day when hometrack bonus points are allocated. To view the latest standings each week, please log into www.dirtmotorsports.com and click the corresponding series logo positioned on the left.

The DIRT MotorSports™ Advance Auto Parts Modified Series is brought to fans across the Northeast by several sponsors and partners, including series sponsors Dynomax Performance Exhaust, Hoosier Racing Tire, Sunoco Race Fuels and DART Machinery. Promotional Partners include AMB i.t., RACEceiver and Zippo Lighters and the contingency sponsors are Bilstein Shocks, Dynomax, MSD Ignitions and Wrisco Industries.

INDUSTRY NEWS: Hercules Tire Canada holds first-ever media event to roll out future plans

MISSISSAUGA, ON – With Canadian automobile journalists in attendance and cameras rolling, Hercules Tire Canada today held its first-ever media event while rolling out a new winter product, plans for future growth in Canadian market and a new ‘wheel’ deal.

“This is a landmark day for our company,” said Rob Keller, Vice-President, Hercules Tire Canada. “We achieved 15 years of steady growth in the Canadian market and today we’re celebrating this milestone with some significant plans and products.”

The company’s media event was capped off with a tour of its modern distribution centre which stocks popular tire brands including Hercules, Falken, Dunlop, Goodyear, and Kelly. Plans also include a product information session for Hercules Tire dealers in the region.

“One of our objectives this year is planned expansion in Eastern and Western Canada. While we’re still in the planning stage, we hope to add two new distribution centres in within the next 24 months,” said Keller.

“While we have built a solid foundation in the winter tire market with Polar Trax and Signet Winter Trax products, now we are preparing to move to the next level with a new winter tire called Hercules Avalanche,” Keller said. “Today’s events provided the venue to roll out this exciting winter product as well as communicate our plans - both in the short- and long-term – for the future.”

Hercules Tire Canada offers a wide selection of top quality commercial tires, consumer tires and wheels for all applications through its network of 350 dealers located in Ontario, Quebec
and Atlantic Canada.

For more information, visit: www.herculestire.ca

-30-

Contact: Christine Hann, Tel: 905.567.2964 or christine.hann@herculestire.com.

BIG NEWS: Tony, Michael Schumacher will switch rides for 2006 season

Drag racing champ Tony Schumacher, left, and Formula 1 ace Michael Schumacher will switch careers for the 2006 season.

Tony “The Sarge” Schumacher and Michael Schumacher have a lot more in common than just their surnames. Both drivers have dominated their respective series over the last few years and in a shocking development this week announced plans to trade rides next season.

“Let’s face it, “ said Tony Schumacher, who pilots the U.S. Army Top Fuel dragster in the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series, “Michael and I pretty much have had our way with the competition lately and, frankly, it’s getting a bit boring having to hoist those Wallys and pretend to still be excited after all of these wins. Michael feels the same way over there in F1, so we think this exchange will give us both something to look forward to on race day.”

Michael Schumacher, who drives for Ferrari in Formula 1, agreed. “It’s has been a tad tiring lately having the adulation of millions of fans around the world cheering my every breath. I guess I’ll run this season and win 10 or 12 races, then jump into Tony’s car next year. I’ll probably win 10 or 12 over there, too, but at least the trophy will be cooler.

On Tuesday, June 14, just prior to the Formula 1 series making its annual stop at Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) for the U.S. Grand Prix and the NHRA tour hitting Englishtown, N.J. for the K&N Filters SuperNationals, the drivers will get their first preview of their 2006 rides. Tony Schumacher will jump into Michael Schumacher’s Ferrari for some hot laps on the road course at IMS, while Michael Schumacher will strap into the U.S. Army Top Fuel dragster for some quarter-mile bursts at nearby Indianapolis Raceway Park.

“I’ve been considering leaving drag racing for open wheel racing, so this is the chance of a lifetime,” said Tony Schumacher. “I can’t wait for June 14 to get here. I’m going to be driving a Formula 1 car and hanging out with Michael Schumacher – you can’t get any better than that. Heck, I even named my second son after the guy.

“Also, finally, we can end the debate over who is the world’s best Schumacher. I’m really ecstatic that Michael agreed to do this. I just wonder how he will react to going over 300 mph. I bet he wets his pants the first time out.”

From NHRA.com.

F1: Bahrain practices... Villeneuve 20th and 17th in first sessions. Ferrari coming alive?

From TSN.ca....

F1: Bahrain practices... Villeneuve 20th and 17th in first sessions. Ferrari coming alive?: "Alexander Wurz posted the fastest lap in the opening two practices for this weekend's Bahrain Grand Prix while Michael Schumacher gave a hint of the new Ferrari's power on Friday.


Despite not fitting comfortably in the McLaren MP4-20, Wurz set a top lap of 1:30.695, finishing ahead of Renault driver Fernando Alonso in the second session. Red Bull rookie Vitantonio Liuzzi was third quickest followed by Pedro de la Rosa in the McLaren, substituting for the injured Juan Pablo Montoya.


Michael Schumacher rounded out the top five in the new F2005, posting a time that was just 1.7 seconds off the pace set by Wurz. In the morning practice, Schumacher was second fastest, just a half second behind Ricardo Zonta after completing just a handful of laps. The reigning world champion locked up the tires on several occassions around the sandy circuit, as did several other drivers who ventured off course. "

Report: NASCAR favours Mosport

I know this post is a few days old, but I have just been given permission to post here. I will be more current on future posts.

Greasemonkey.

Report: NASCAR favours Mosport

TSN.ca Staff
3/24/2005

TSN.ca - Mosport International Raceway in Bowmanville, Ontario, is the leading candidate to land a NASCAR stock car race as soon as 2006, according to a report in the Toronto Sun.

The Sunreported that a group of NASCAR executives met Tuesday in Daytona Beach, Florida., to map out an expansion strategy. Part of that strategy will include a meeting with Myles Brandt, president and general manager of Mosport.

Brandt said Wednesday he already has had meetings with NASCAR officials about Mosport. He told the newspaper that NASCAR bosses are serious about a race at his four-kilometre road course.

"They have actually already been to Mosport," Brandt told the Sun. "And within the next 30 to 90 days they are going to be back to take another look at the track."
The Sun report says Mosport has moved ahead of Montreal's Circuit Gilles Villeneuve because of its ability to host races from the Nextel Cup, Busch Grand National or Craftsman Truck series.

The contract between promoter Normand Legault and the city of Montreal, which owns Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, limits its use to twice a year - once for the Canadian Grand Prix and once for the Champ Car Molson Indy Montreal.

While speculation has been rampant that Legault would dump Champ Car in favour of a NASCAR Nextel Cup race, he might not do so for a Busch or Craftsman Truck race.
NASCAR made its first foray outside of continental U.S. this season when the Busch series raced in Mexico City.

Tracy to NASCAR?

TSN.ca - Auto Racing - Canada's Sports Leader: "According to a report in the Toronto Sun, this year's edition of the Toronto Molson Indy could very well be Paul Tracy's swan song in the Champ Car World Series."

From a link on TSN.CA.....

More NASCAR talk from Paul Tracy

The radio buzz on the sportscasts this morning was about Paul Tracy talking about making the switch to NASCAR for 2006. The Champ Car driver, who was originally from West Hill (Scarborough), says he would like to be part of a NASCAR race in Canada.

The snowball continues to grow....

LUCAS OIL WWS: 72 points nights in 2005

MISSISSAUGA, ON – When the seven participating speedways in the Lucas Oil Weekend Warrior Series finally put out their schedules for 2005, an available 72 events were presented as point earning races for Limited Late Model and Late Model drivers in Ontario participating in the WWS program.

Series administrator Joshua Paxton set up the aggregate schedule from the participating Lucas Oil WWS tracks indicating a grand total of 72 dates when at least one of the two premiere divisions is running.

He told the promoters, “it adds up to 38 dates when the Late Models are running at Kawartha, Delaware and Lucas Oil Flamboro Speedways, and 34 dates when the Limited Late Models are running at Mosport, Barrie, Peterborough and Sunset Speedways.”

He also pointed out, there are many nights when two or more tracks are running the same division, but when you start the schedule in April and end it in October, there are a lot of available nights for drivers to compete and accumulate points towards the WWS standings.”

Promoters from several of the tracks asked about a “best of” total for WWS points, not wanting to force drivers to try to make more than 30 complete shows.

After much discussion, it was decided by the series administrators, Josh and Gerry Paxton, that they would stick to the original plan and allow drivers to accumulate points for every night they chose to compete.

Administrator Gerry Paxton said, “The original goal of this series, as clearly stated in the proposal we originally submitted to each track, was to support and build grassroots racing. We have listened to the opinions and concerns of promoters and drivers, but we are focused on rewarding the competitors who race as often as they get the chance. While we recognize the demands of family, and hope the drivers do to, the Lucas Oil WWS is simply providing an opportunity for drivers to accumulate points by racing, and be rewarded in being a part of grassroots racing.”

Paxton also expects many drivers to compete at their home tracks and maybe take in one or two invitational events at other tracks as a “full season”, but the optimum number of races will ultimately be decided by the racers, not by the Lucas Oil Weekend Warrior Series.

The Lucas Oil Weekend Warrior Series has guaranteed a total bonus point fund of more than 100-thousand dollars to the top 40 Limited Late Model and Late Model drivers in Ontario for 2005, to be awarded for their participation in supporting grassroots racing.

For further information please contact: Paxton Motorsports Marketing

Gerry Paxton (519) 591-0400 or (519) 442-6849 // e-mail: Gerry@weekendwarriorseries.com or Josh Paxton (905) 317-4567 or (905) 902-4567 // e-mail: JP@weekendwarriorseries.com

www.WeekendWarriorSeries.com

CDN. SPRINT CAR NAT'LS: Ohsweken Shootout

By: Ken Pelkie, Public Relations - Ohsweken, Ontario

In conjunction with the Canadian Sprint Car Nationals, Ohsweken Speedway is pleased to announce the running of the “Ohsweken Shootout” September 16th. The twelve car - ten lap event will feature three entries from each of the four affiliate sanctioning bodies for the Nationals in a head to head showdown. The winner will pocket $500.

Qualifiers for the “Ohsweken Shootout” will be held at Ohsweken throughout the season. During the first race that each of the affiliates appears at Ohsweken in 2005, the top three “A” Main finishers who are regular members of that series and can attend the September 16th Shootout, will qualify.

Qualifiers scheduled are as follows:

Patriot Sprint Group - Friday, May 6th
Southern Ontario Sprints - Friday, May 20th
Empire Super Sprints - Friday, June 24th
Sprints On Dirt - Friday, August 26th

In the event of a rain-out, the qualifier will be the next scheduled program for that series at Ohsweken. If only one event has been scheduled for a series, the qualifying positions will go to the top point positions in that series as of September 5th. All entries for the “Ohsweken Shootout” must be registered for the Canadian Sprint Car Nationals in order to compete.

Starting positions for the “Ohsweken Shootout” will be determined by draw with the order for each group established among the highest qualifier from each affiliate.

Series A will draw 1st 5th and 9th
Series B will draw 2nd 6th and 10th
Series C will draw 3rd 7th and 11th
Series D will draw 4th 8th and 12th

Two on-track scheduled practice seasons will be available Friday evening, September 16th for ALL Canadian Sprint Car Nationals registered cars wishing to participate.

The “Ohsweken Shootout” will be run prior to the feature events.

Further information can be obtained by contacting the Event Coordinator/Publicist, Ken Pelkie at pelkiekj@ebtech.net or by logging on to the Ohsweken Speedway website at http://www.ohswekenspeedway.com/ and clicking on the “Canadian Sprint Car Nationals” icon on the front page.

MULTIMATIC: Fontana Preview

Both Ford Racing Technologies Multimatic Motorsports Mustang FR500C entries are now running equal second in the 2005 Grand-Am Cup Championship following the announcement of revised results from the recent round in Santo Domingo.



A mid-race power failure in the Dominican Republic disrupted the computer timing and scoring system, forcing race officials to manually score the remainder of the race.

Maxwell and Empringham were originally credited with 2nd place in the #55 car with Jeannette and Gue in 4th. However a post-race audit placed the #55 Mustang a lap in arrears, putting them back to 9th. Jeannette and Gue were elevated to second place.

The four factory Ford Mustang drivers all now have a total of 54 points - only four points behind the championship leading BMW M3 duo of Rob Finlay and Michael McDowell.

Multimatic Motorsports now heads to California Speedway in Fontana near Los Angeles this weekend for round three of the 2005 championship, eager to build upon the strong start to the season by both cars.

"To have both Mustangs running equal second in the championship is a great result for this year and a great reward for all the hard work put in by everybody at Multimatic Motorsports and Ford Racing Technologies," Multimatic Vice President and team Technical Director, Larry Holt said.

"The target for Multimatic Motorsports is to now challenge for our first race win of 2005. Both cars have a second place to their credit, but getting a couple of race wins under our belt along with some consistent points scoring performances will be perfect for our championship changes.

"But the competition is tough - not only from the other manufacturers, but from the Mustang FR500C customer entries."

Ford Racing Technology embarked on this program to return the Mustang to the race track, and unveiled the new Mustang FR500C racer at the Specialty Equipment Manufacturer's Association Show in Las Vegas in November last year. Ford Racing worked closely with Multimatic on the design, development, and build of the race car to Grand-Am specification.

Ford Racing Performance Parts will offer the Mustang FR500C in Grand-Am Cup specification, as well as all the racing components necessary for race team support and for those enthusiasts interested in enhancing their own Mustangs.

In conjunction with the debut season of the new Mustang FR500C, Multimatic Motorsports has launched a new web site to commemorate the return to the track by the Ford muscle-car. The site is located at www.multimaticmotorsports.com/mustang/ and features driver profiles, race news, photo galleries and Multimatic Motorsports and Mustang history.

DELAWARE: Practice Day Cancelled

Delaware, ON (March 29, 2005): Delaware Speedway’s first Practice Day, originally scheduled for Saturday, April 2nd, has been cancelled.

The next scheduled Practice Day is Saturday, April 9th. The final Practice Day before the 2005 season opens is Saturday, April 16th. Pit gates will open at noon and practice will run until 5:00 p.m. on both April 9th and April 16th. Pit admission is $10.00 per person. Grandstand admission is free.

CASCAR in at the T.O. Indy

TORONTO, ON – CASCAR will be back at the Toronto Molson Indy this summer. The fate of the Super Series at the event appeared to be in question in recent weeks. But according to Cynthea Galbraith of Molson Sports & Ent., the agreement was finalized today, in advance of tomorrow's Molson Indy press conference in Toronto.

In the past, CASCAR raced on Saturday afternoons in all of its Indy appearances. This summer's Toronto race will be different, however, as the CASCAR race will take place on Sunday afternoon, following the Champ Car feature.

RACELINE RADIO: Adds AM 700 CHQR Calgary to RRN

BURLINGTON, ON - The Management, Staff and Sponsors of Raceline Radio, Canada’s only nationally syndicated motorsport magazine and open line radio program, are thrilled to announce the addition of AM 770 CHQR Calgary, Alberta to the Raceline Radio Network!

AM 770 CHQR Calgary suits up and fires up with Raceline Radio Sunday April 3rd, and will carry the program live at 6:06 PM Mountain time.

“The auto racing fan base in Calgary is as intense as it is anywhere in the country!”, stated Raceline Radio Executive Producer and co-host John Massingberd. “Whether it’s following NASCAR, Formula One, ChampCar, especially with the new race in Edmonton, or the action at Race City Speedway, the fans in and around The Stampede City know this game inside out! We are delighted to be on the air in Calgary!” Massingberd added.

“This is an historic day!”, commented Raceline Radio Anchor and Producer Erik Tomas. “ Since we started Raceline Radio 12 years ago, we’ve been trying to break into the Calgary market! I can’t wait to get the Calgary fans on board, and I know CHQR can’t wait either! I worked at CHQR back in the early 80’s, and I know the fans in the market. They love their racing as much as we do! We’re now 16 stations coast-to-coast with no end to the growth in sight!”, Tomas continued.

“We are pleased to join The Raceline Radio Network to compliment our already strong sports content!”, stated AM 770 CHQR Program Director Jay Donald.

“Sports fans in Calgary already know AM 770 CHQR is the only station to turn to for quality sports information and the Raceline addition gives them one more reason to come to us, especially now with a major race just up the road in Edmonton this summer!” Donald added.

AM 770 CHQR bolsters Raceline's award-winning coverage in Wild Rose Country, having already established a solid relationship with The TEAM 1260 Edmonton.

Raceline Radio is distributed across Canada via The Raceline Radio Network. A consistent winner of international broadcast journalism awards, Raceline Radio’s primary airing is Sunday nights at 8:06 PM Eastern.

It’s carried on 15 affiliates in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, Ottawa, Winnipeg, Fredericton, Oromocto, New Maryland, Windsor, Hamilton, Niagara Falls, Truro and Peterborough.
Raceline Radio’s broadcast partners include: Subaru Canada, Texaco-Havoline, Speed Channel, Krown Rust Inhibitor, Great Canadian Holidays and Coaches and Inside Track Motorsport News.

For More information, contact: Erik Tomas at erik@raceline.ca

MERRITTVILLE: New Engine Package Creates Battle of Ages

THOROLD, ON – As the big leagues of NASCAR Racing begin to gain momentum, local DIRT stock car racers are starting to gear up for their first point race of the new season at Merrittville Speedway.

The historic d-shaped oval will crank up it’s 54th consecutive season Saturday April 30th.

Race fans attending Dirt Weekly Racing Series Events at Merrittville Speedway throughout the 2005 season will see a large number of rookies entering competition through all divisions in addition to several veterans making returns to the Thorold track.

“Our experiment last season with the GM Crate Engine in our Sportsmen Division and an Aluminum Spec Cylinder Head in the 358 Modifieds ,” relates Nancy Bicknell, adding “the two cost-cutting combinations is already bringing new and familiar faces to each division … race fans can look forward to new talent in all classes though.”

While three of the newest Sportsmen competitors have a history in Karting on Merrittville’s infield track, two are making the move to open wheel racing from the Hoosier Stocks.

Alan Sleight was one of many young up and coming drivers that tested a Bicknell Racing Products racer in the Sportsmen Division – a BRP Chassis loaned by Central New York competitor Gary Tompkins that sported a GM Crate Engine that has been accepted circuit-wide as an option for 2005 for use at Dirt Northeast member tracks.

Sleight’s return to Merrittville comes after several years away from his dirt racing roots. Sleight’s last racing was in a Cup Lite Car at asphalt tracks such as Delaware Speedway. Prior to that the St. Catharines driver had competed in Tuesday Night Kart Racing at Merrittville.

2004 Auto FX Graphics Original Pizza Logs Junior Restricted Light Champion Mat Williamson is preparing for double duty in 2005 – continuing Karting while adding a Sportsmen Car and Saturday nights to his schedule.

A second generation driver is set to return a familiar name to Saturday Nights in 2005 having teamed up with Peninsula Press Motorsports for his initial Sportsmen Season.

Anthony Rizzardo – nephew of former Modified competitor Danny Rizzardo – will give up Tuesday Night Karts for his new Saturday Night venture into open wheel racing. Also joining the Sportsmen division in 2005 are two veteran Hoosier Stock competitors – Greg Ayers and Dave Dykstra.

These new drivers and veterans alike should provide quite an entertaining mix as the division looks for a new champion in 2005.

2004 Merrittville Sportsmen Champion Adam Ferri has announced plans to run for Rookie of the Year honors in the L. St. Amand 358 Modified Division in 2005.

Following Ferri to the premier 358 division are Boyd MacTavish and Greg Panunte who have competed in the class in previous seasons.

Another driver making a return to regular competition in 2005 is fan favorite Randy Chrysler who is planning a return to Saturday Night action at the Thorold track after competing in Central New York in recent years. Another popular veteran also returning to the premier division this season is Ken Cosgrove. Cosgrove is set to return after a three year absence from the sport.

The Dwarf Car Division also looks to have several rookies in the field this season with kart veteran Paul Klager joining the class in 2005, Klager competed last season as a rookie in the 4 Cylinder Division running to the runner-up spot in points after many seasons racing karts Tuesday Nights.

Joining Klager are first time competitors Tim Tallman, Owen Steele, Josh Sliter, Adam Murphy and Bruce Demers who declared their intentions at a recent Driver’s Meeting. Demers will make the trip to Merrittville from Windsor to race his new car.

With Rob Knapp making his return back to the Sportsmen division also, his younger brother Kevin is one of the Hoosier Stock Rookie crop expected to join that division this season. The younger Knapp will race his older brother’s feature winning car.

A driver making a return that needs no introduction is 2003 Hoosier Stock Point Champion Dolf McCready. After sitting out last season to assist first time driver Danielle Landry launch her career the veteran is set to return to regular competition in 2005. Another former champion – Jeff Dayman is also set to return to the Hoosier Stock ranks this season

When you size up the competition you begin to see the age differnce and generation gaps that have formed through all divisions. On the one side you have Modified veterans like Pete Bicknell, Scott Wood, Brian Stevens, Fred Carleton, Paul Ashton or Sportsmen veteran Bill Willard mixed in the field with some of the rookie drivers. These and other veterans individually have in some cases more years racing experience than some of the young up and coming drivers have been alive.

The battle of the old guard versus the young guns through all divisions will create even stronger competition and great racing action for the race fan.

Merrittville Speedway’s race fans and teams alike will see a new Merrittville when Practice Day takes place Saturday April 23rd.

Last fall, Ed MacPherson Construction and Speedway Officials put down more than 200 loads of new clay – shared between the Stock Car and Kart Tracks.

For further information on Merrittville Speedway’s 2005 Season call 905-892-8266 or visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com. By Jim Irvine.

PSL & MAXTER ENGINES: 10 podiums in 2 races

The Canadian based PSL Karting Team shop just got back from a three week trip. The team was racing in Oklahoma at the Stars Race of The Americas. A week later, they were in Jacksonville for the last round of the Florida Winter Tour.



In Oklahoma, the team came back with a big win in 80cc shifter. Dominating from qualification to the Sunday final, Cody Joly picked up the highest honnor. Starting in the 15th position during the final JICA race Cody Joly was very faston is CRG / PSL Maxter earning the fastest lap while moving up to 2nd place.

Unlucky he was DQ'd in tech for a spark plug washer. ICC driver Jan Velez Walter was unlucky. He was taken out on the first coner of the Pre-Final and had to qualify for the main event through LCQ, after starting in 30th position and finishing 3rd, with the fastest lap. Starting 35th position in the final he moved up to 13th position, weaving his way through the field. With only two laps to go disaster struck again when he crashed into another pile-up, which was the end of the day for him and the team got on the road for Jacksonville Florida.

In Jacksonville, the team had success in both ICC classes. Marc Flood won the Expert shifter class on his CRG / MAXTER tuned by PSL and Jan Velez won the Pro shifter on his CRG / Maxter, which is also tuned yy PSL.

PSL also finished first and second in the very competetive Rotax Jr class with Samuel Charland and Michael Grenier. Alex Labbe scored a solid second in 80cc action, while Gus Vidal was runner-up in Expert Heavy.

In the end, PSL returned from its road trip with Championships in expert shifter, 2nd in the championship in pro shifter and 2nd in 80cc shifter.

For complete result of the PSL racing team consult PSLkarting.com. PSL wants to thank their partners: CRG , MAXTER and MIRFor more information on PSL MAXTER ENGINES or CRG products, please visit the www.pslkarting.com or e-mail at info@pslkarting.com or call at 1-888-889-5278.