Saturday, May 14, 2005
Sunset Speedway: Rained Out
FLAMBORO: Rained out
Following the postponement of the Lucas Oil Grand Opening Celebration activities, the inclement weather of Saturday May 14th forced the complete cancellation of the scheduled racing program."
FLAMBORO: Racing still a go according to Flamboro site at 4 p.m.... keep checking...
At 9am Friday morning Lucas Oil Flamboro Speedway owner/promoter John Casale met with event coordinator Joshua Paxton to discuss the impending weather. "We checked three internet satellites, we listened to three different radio station forecasts, they all say the same thing, Rain all day."
At this time only the grand opening festivities have been cancelled and rescheduled to later in the season; this includes the kids rides, the MASCAR simulation race track, the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame display, the driver autograph sessions, and all other extra activities. Said Paxton, "We really want to have a lot of fun with the fans when he hold an event like this. We will get our day in the sun, it just won't be this weekend."
... more at link above...
Friday, May 13, 2005
LUCAS OIL FLAMBORO SPEEDWAY: Grand Opening Celebration Activities Postponed
The poor weather forecasts for Saturday May 14th have prompted Lucas Oil Flamboro Speedway management to postpone the grand opening celebration activities to a later date in the season.
At 9am this morning Lucas Oil Flamboro Speedway owner/promoter met with event coordinator Joshua Paxton to discuss the impending weather. “We checked three internet satellites, we listened to three different radio station forecasts, they all say the same thing, Rain all day.”
At this time only the grand opening festivities have been cancelled and rescheduled to later in the season; this includes the kids rides, the MASCAR simulation race track, the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame display, the driver autograph sessions, and all other extra activities. Said Paxton, “We really want to have a lot of fun with the fans when he hold an event like this. We will get our day in the sun, it just won’t be this weekend.”
The racing program itself, featuring the Lucas Oil Can-Am TQ Midgets, the Grisdale Late Models, Midtown Carstar Thunder Cars, and Waterdown Napa Mini Stocks, remains scheduled to run on Saturday as a regular race night – pit gates open at 4pm; grandstand opens at 5pm; Racing at 6pm.
However, please keep an eye on the website, www.FlamboroSpeedway.itgo.com, for the latest updates in the event that Saturday’s weather forces the cancellation of the racing program as well.
F1: Toyota next into the doghouse?
According to a report in the June edition of F1 Racing magazine, Toyota did not get their competition license and Superlicense paperwork into FIA until after the San Marino Grand Prix.
Toyota Motorsport president John Howett confirmed the administrative error to the magazine, but was confident the issue has been resolved.
'This was a genuine administrative mistake which we sincerely regret,' Howett is quoted as saying. 'This has now been resolved with the German authorities and the revised documents have now been submitted to the FIA. They've now issued us with a new Superlicence.' "
-- more at link above...
SOS: Inside Canadian Racing Puts Up “Newsmaker of the Race” Award
The Southern Ontario Sprints is very please to announce that Inside Canadian Racing (ICR) is the latest addition to the growing list of sponsors for their 10th Anniversary Season. ICR has agreed to post a cash award to the “Newsmaker of the Race” for 10 events throughout the season. The winner will be decided on by a representative from ICR and an SOS officer at the selected events.
ICR is a website that was developed in 2002 as a way for teams, tracks and promoters to have a free venue to promote the cause. It has now grown to the point that the site is one of the leaders in promoting the Canadian racing scene. Those interested in racing news in Canada can go to this site and read the latest about all the major series, events and tracks around the country.
The SOS is thrilled that ICR has joined on as a supporter for their 10th season celebrations. Watch future race reports to learn the winners of the “Newsmaker of the Race” award as the season progresses and don’t forget to check out the ICR website at www.insidecanadianracing.com.
Welcome aboard Inside Canadian Racing!
Tiemersma Motorsports
Tiemersma Motorsports' Crew Chief Mike Sutton has sent out another alert, letting people know about all their news and progress.
... see link above...
Thursday, May 12, 2005
KARTING: Sunoco Ron Fellows Karting Championship presented by Toronto Star Wheels set to 'rock' Goodwood in season opener!
GOODWOOD, ONTARIO The fourth season of the Sunoco Ron Fellows Karting Championship presented by Toronto Star Wheels gets underway this weekend at the historic Goodwood Kartways, located just outside Stouffville, Ontario.
By all accounts, this year with the changes to the series most competitors and teams feel this year's championship is going to 'rock'. When the teams arrive for Friday practice, all will be looking for the edge that gives them a leg up in the championship. Friday is practice day, and it is about the only thing carried over from last year's schedule. Saturday will host five championship classes Canada Senior, Canada Junior Light, RotaxMax Jr, World Formula Jr. and Formula Junior.
This year each class will get two timed qualifying sessions and one race.Formula Junior will kick off the festivities at 1:30 p.m. when they take to the track to form up for a 2:00 p.m. race start. They will be followed by the rest of the classes that day.Sunday's lineup includes the headline class Formula Senior, which will follow the same time schedule as Formula Junior on Saturday. Formula Senior will be followed by World Formula Senior, RotaxMax Senior and Canada Junior Heavy.This year, more than ever, the competition is expected to attain new levels as most of the top teams from not only Ontario, but Quebec are expected to send their top drivers in search of a coveted Sunoco Ron Fellows Karting Championship presented by Toronto Star Wheels.For more information, including a location map of Goodwood Kartways, visit www.goodwoodkartways.com, and for a daily schedule, visit www.asncanada.com
Formula Junior drivers will be available for 'on grid' interviews on Saturday from 1:40 p.m.-1:55 p.m before the 2:00 p.m. start. Formula Senior drivers will be available for 'on grid' interviews on Sunday from 1:40 p.m.-1:55 p.m before the 2:00 p.m. start.
PLEASE CONTACT RUSS BOND TO ARRANGE ON TRACK MEDIA CREDENTIALS AT TRACK PHONE NUMBER 416-312-2900 OR EMAIL r.bond@russbondagency.com
The objective of the SRFKC is to help foster a professional environment for kart drivers; help create a positive attitude towards appearance, conduct and discipline; help foster the employment of the best practices for the safe and fair running of competitions; and help kart drivers to move up the racing ladder to automobile racing.For more information, please contact:Russ Bond, 905-852-2900 r.bond@russbondagency.comBrad Brown, k.andb.brown@sympatico.ca (416) 233-8727, Paul Cooke, ASN Canada FIA (905) 403-9000
MERRITTVILLE SPEEDWAY: TURN FOUR COLLISION JOINS MERRITTVILLE DIVISION SPONSORS
Thorold, Ontario …One of Thorold’s newest businesses has joined one of Thorold’s oldest as Turn 4 Collision recently signed on as sponsors of Merrittville Speedway’s 4 Cylinder Division.
“Prior to starting Turn 4, Norm has had quite a history of involvement in all forms of the sport,” relates (GM) Erica Bicknell, “ and were happy to see that in his new venture he is supporting several of our DIRT Weekly Racing Series Teams and now the 4 Cylinder Division.”
The Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder Division is part of the DIRT Weekly Racing Series at Merrittville Speedway that also features the L. St. Amand Enterprises 358 Modifieds, Original Pizza Logs Sportsmen, Dwarf Cars and the Hoosier Stocks.
Turn 4 Collision is located in Thorold Ontario on Ormond Street South – across from Thorold Lumber.Turn 4 Collision specializes in minor and major body repairs and painting as well as detailing and minor repairs for all makes and models including fleets.
There will be lots of racing on the track at Merrittville May 28th as the DIRT Weekly Racing Series divisions complete their first full month of action.There will also be a race to the Concession Stands as Economy Paving presents the Thorold Track’s first ever Dollar Hot Dog Night.
“Our fans are the best,” relates (GM) Erica Bicknell adding,” we have scheduled many different specials on the track and off the track … it’s just a little thank you for supporting us Saturday Nights.”
On track action will feature qualifying and feature events for the L. St. Amand Enterprises 358 Modifieds, Original Pizza Logs Sportsmen, Seneca Niagara Casino Dwarf Cars, Hoosier Stocks and the Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinders.
For further information on Merrittville Speedway call 905-892-8266 or visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com.
CASCAR: BRYAN CATHCART READY TO RETURN TO THE CASCAR SUPER SERIES
“It sure was a lot of fun to get back behind the wheel of this Mopar powered Dodge” smiled Cathcart. “The car looks good and felt really smooth. We’ve got a lot of good people that will be helping us out this season, some of them new to our team so it was a good opportunity for everybody to get together and work on some things and get to understand their role within the team”.
Among those working hard to prepare the Mopar powered Chargers for Cathcart this season are past champion crew chief Billy Burns. Also joining the Meyers Transport/Peterborough Homes/Parkview Homes team this season is CASCAR veteran Tim Ellas who also has a long list of accomplishments in the Super Series including a championship season with Dan Shirtliff in 1996.
According to Cathcart “you can never have enough good people working on your race car. With Billy working through the week to prepare the cars, Tim at the track to help coordinate our efforts and the rest of our guys we should be ready. The competition in the CASCAR Super Series gets stronger every season and to represent our sponsors properly we have to be prepared every time we pull into an event”.
Coming up on Tuesday, May 17th you will have an opportunity to see the Meyers Transport/Peterborough Homes/Parkview Homes car and meet Bryan Cathcart at the CASCAR Media Day taking place at the NASCAR Speedpark at the Vaughan Mills Mall located at Hwy 400 & Rutherford Rd. Activities get under way at 10:30AM with plenty of time allotted for pictures and interviews.
The CASCAR Super Series is the only National Touring Series of Stock Car Racing in Canada. This year’s race schedule will consist of short ovals, road courses and temporary street circuits. Super Series competition during 2005 is scheduled to take place at familiar settings like Delaware, Cayuga & Peterborough Speedways, along with Kawartha Downs and the Molson Indy in Toronto. New stops on this years’ schedule include Barrie Speedway and Sun Valley Speedway in Vernon, BC.
All CASCAR Super Series Races can be seen on Rogers Sportsnet and SPEED TV. For more information and to follow the progress of Bryan Cathcart and the CASCAR Super Series log onto www.cascar.ca
- by Todd Lewis, TL Sports & Entertainment
SUNSET SPEEDWAY: Opening Night Report
... more at link above...
SPRINTS ON DIRT INTRODUCES THE “SOD PASS MASTER”
With the contingency awards program continuing to grow, SOD President Jason Fausey is pleased to announce that JE/SRP Pistons will be sponsoring the "SOD PASS MASTER" award this year at the annual awards banquet slated for the Eldorado Golf Course in Mason, Michigan October 15th.
During each point race throughout the season for the Engine Pro, Sprints On Dirt presented by Total Seal series, drivers will accumulate credits based on how many positions they improve during the “A” Main states Fausey. At the end of the season the driver who accumulates the most positions improved overall will be the recipient of the award.
After the first two races, Tim Norman leads with a total of 20 cars passed, followed by Louie Carufel (17), Brett Mann (12), Ben Rutan (11) and Fred Bliss (10) rounding out the top five.
JE Pistons of Huntington Beach, California has been serving the Pros with high performance forged pistons for fifty years. For “upper end” applications, their winning record includes Nextel Cup, Indy 500, HNRA, WOO and many others.
Sportsman Racing Pistons (SRP) offers a more common and affordable unit manufactured from extruded aerospace aluminum alloy bar stock. Available through JE Pistons, this CNC Motorsports product offers superiority over pistons manufactured from cast aluminum bars. For more information be sure to log on to www.jepistons.com" target=_blank>www.jepistons.com/>www.jepistons.com.
Sprints On Dirt swings back into action Friday night as I-96 plays host to the “Race Cars with an Attitude” on the fast half mile clay oval. Pit gates open at 4:30 p.m. with racing scheduled at 7:30.For all the latest news on SOD be sure to log on to the official website at www.sprintsondirt.com.
Pirelli Tire Mustang GT shows its stuff in One lap of America
Montreal May 9, 2005 - Originally conceived in the 1970s as a road race onpublic highways (gasp!) by Brock Yates of Car and Driver, the One Lap of America event now is a series of time trials run at a range of race tracks spread through the eastern half of the United States. The nearly 100 participants drive between venues, then go for it in on-track solo competition.
Pirelli Tire has entered this event in a 2005 Ford Mustang GT driven by employees Jeff Dinges (R&D) and Giancarlo Grioni (Marketing) as a way of showcasing the company's partnership with Ford in this Award winning vehicle and as a means to put its rubber to a vigorous test.
Since the competitors must start and finish on the same set, the 5120 km(3200 mi) combination of highway and track punishment makes an ideal test of tires.
The 22nd running of the event started on April 30 at the Tire Rack in Southbend Indiana, then the Pirelli Mustang sped to trials events in Pennsylvania, New York, New Hampshire, West Virginia, Maryland, South Carolina, Georgia and Ohio before heading to the finish in Southbend.
While the 2005 Mustang GT comes factory equipped with Pirelli's P Zero NeroM+S all-seasons, for this event it is equipped with what Anthony Paulozza of Pirelli Tire Inc. sees as the turner's dream Plus 3 fitment, the P Zero Nero255/35R20.
"This tire looks amazing and it performed exceptionally in this grueling event," Paulozza notes.
Proof of the tires ability shows in the results. With a 93-car field of superbly equipped vehicles and many experienced drivers, the Pirelli Mustang finished 2nd in class and 25th overall.
"The car really performed and at the end of the race, the tires still looked very good. Congratulations to everyone involved," Paulozza said.
BARRIE SPEEDWAY: CHECKERED FLAG!
Dave James and Dave Vokey of Barrie Speedway just sent me their weekend package of information, following their first night of action.
WOW!
An informative and well-written race report (a few hundred words)... several high DPI photographs with identifying information... and full results and points in paragraph form for all divisions (see sample below).
They could not have done a more perfect job. I thank them... and the racers at Barrie should thank them!!! These guys are doing you a favour because their efforts to make sure we have all of this information will result in superb content in the next issue.
People often wonder why different tracks or series get a different level of coverage. A big part of it is that we can't publish information that we don't have. Simple as that.
So thanks to Dave Vokey and Dave James at Barrie Speedway.
They are setting the bar!
CARQUEST LATE MODELS
HEAT WINS: J. Gaunt, R. Jongen, T. Hawn, K. Reynolds
FEATURE: 1. #2 Tyler Hawn; 2. #25 John Gaunt; 3. #9 Tim Watson; 4. #47 Tom Walters; 5. #8 Dave Lewis; 6. #104 John Mombourquette; 7. #55 Steve Quesnelle; 8. #28 Robin Jongen; 9. #1 Garry Reynolds; 10. #48 Dwayne Baker; 11. #90 Kevin Reynolds; 12. #20 Dwight Brown; 13. #88 Scott Beatty; 14. #11 Joey McColm; 15. #33 Rob James; 16. #22 Rob Deasy; 17. #43 Darin Malcolm; 18. #37 Steve Penny; 19. #83 Ian Bouque; 20. #6 Mike Brown; 21. #19 Scott McGillivray;
STANDINGS TOP-10: 1. Tyler Hawn, 124; 2. John Gaunt, 120; 3. Tim Watson, 114; 4. Tom Walters, 108; 5. Steve Quesnelle, 97; 6. John Mombourquette, 96; 7. Robin Jongen, 94; 8. Dave Lewis, 90; 9. Dwayne Baker, 89; 10. Kevin Reynolds, 85;
BARRIE SPEEDWAY: Weekend Preview... new racer set to debut
If last weekend is any indication, you'd best get there early as we expect another huge crowd Saturday night. The crowds are not the only thing growing at the speedway as the car counts also continue to climb. This weekend Barrie Speedway welcomes another new driver as Amanda Connolly joins Barrie's Late Model ranks."
... more at the link above...
IRL: Rice crashes in practice
Rice lost control of his car in the second turn of the 2-mile oval and backed hard into the wall. He walked away from the wreck but was admitted into hospital with a severe back bruise and a concussion.
Track officials announced late in the practice session that doctors would wait until next week before giving Rice clearance to drive. "
... more at link above...
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
Speed World Challenge GT: Heinricy to Drive Cadillac CTS-V Race Car at Mid-Ohio
DETROIT - The Cadillac CTS-V racing team will field a third car for Round 4 of the SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course on May 21.
GM Performance Division Director John Heinricy, an experienced race car driver and engineer, will drive the #12 CTS-V race car in the event, joining fellow racers Max Papis and Andy Pilgrim on Team Cadillac. In his dual role as engineer and race car driver, Heinricy was responsible for developing both the production Cadillac CTS-V and CTS-V race car.
"John showed last year that he really knows how to wheel it around Mid-Ohio," said Jim Taylor, general manager of Cadillac on Heinricy's third-place finish in 2004. "And with the track just a few hours from Detroit, you can bet there will be a lot of employees, families and fans on hand cheering for those three black Cadillacs."
Heinricy has been very active racing Chevrolet Corvettes, Camaros, and Pontiac Firebirds professionally since 1984 and has won 11 driving championships and several team championships. He was a member of the team that broke three world speed records in 1990 driving a Corvette ZR1, and drove one of the factory Corvette C5-R race cars in GT2 competition. Heinricy also has five career SPEED World Challenge wins (including a win at Mid-Ohio in 1994), 20 top-3 finishes and 49 career starts. He has had extensive time in the Cadillac CTS-V during the team's testing and development period.
"It's a thrill to again race the Cadillac CTS-V at Mid-Ohio," said Heinricy. "But an even bigger thrill is to see how excited GM employees are that 'one of their own' is racing for Team Cadillac. It seems to be a real source of employee enthusiasm - not just for those of us involved with the V-Series - but throughout GM. If I can provide a boost to morale, it's certainly a contribution I am proud and privileged to make."
Entering the fourth round of the Speed GT at Mid-Ohio, Team Cadillac is in second place in the manufacturers championship, and coming off a 1-2-3 podium sweep at Road Atlanta. Andy Pilgrim holds second place in the drivers championship.
Honda/Michelin Challenge Series Revs Up 2005 Program
TORONTO (May 10, 2005) – As part of its commitment to power the dreams of aspiring Canadians with an affordable form of professional racing, Honda Canada today announced the 2005 Honda/Michelin Challenge Series race schedule. The schedule includes the addition of both the Molson Indy Toronto and Molson Indy Montreal to add even more excitement for both drivers and fans. Honda/Michelin Challenge Series teams compete on both permanent road courses and temporary street circuits across Ontario and Quebec in mechanically identical Honda Civic DX Coupes shod with Michelin Pilot “Sport Cup” tires.
“Having an opportunity to showcase and develop the driving skills of aspiring racing professionals is of tremendous benefit to participating Honda dealers, team sponsors and our Series commercial partners,” said Arch Wilcox, Assistant Vice President, Honda Sales. “We’re extremely pleased about the addition of the two Molson Indy race events to showcase the quality of racing that our drivers and teams deliver, and we are looking forward to putting on a great show for the fans.”
Always a crowd favourite because of the intensely competitive, wheel-to-wheel racing, the 2005 series race cars include several performance enhancements, including a special spring and damper package, exhaust improvements and brake upgrades. These combined changes are designed to further improve the cars’ already excellent racetrack performance.
The 2005 season will get underway by making the first of four visits to Mosport International Raceway in Ontario on May 22. In addition to appearing at the two Molson Indy races, Honda/Michelin drivers will also have an opportunity to thrill Formula 1 fans when they make their second appearance at the fabled Circuit Gilles Villeneuve during the Grand Prix of Canada June 11. Other Quebec venues include; the historic Grand Prix du Trois-Riviers and the “Fall Classic” event at the scenic Circuit Mont Tremblant.
With its origins dating back to 1976, the ASN Canada FIA-sanctioned Honda/Michelin Challenge Series has been a continuing success due, in part, to the support from other leaders in the automotive industry. This year’s series partners are NGK Spark Plugs, Bosal Performance Exhaust, Dynamic Suspension, Hawk Performance Brakes, CSC Racing Products, Goodridge, Mechanix Wear, Racing Radios and Petro Canada.
KAWARTHA SPEEDWAY: Free Admission on May 22
Sunday, May 22nd: Admission is FREE!! "
... a concert by a Tragically Hip 'tribute' band and a lot more. Have a look at the link above for more info...
ONT. PRO CHALL.: Tyler Brown makes debut in Ontario Pro Challenge Series Dodge Intrepid
Eventually snow does melt, or most of it! In early April, 4B Racing had the new car and Tyler up at Sunset Speedway turning his first laps of the year. "There was still snow melting in turns 3 & 4 and Tyler was driving through the water on the track like it was dry," track owner Glenn Lloyd commented.
In order to get a handle on the new Intrepid, the team has spent considerable time up at Sunset getting Brown comfortable in the #91 Dodge. "After 7 years of karting, having a complete car around you, as well as roll cage, head restraints and all the safety gear, it’s a new feeling, one that requires getting used to," Brown said. To date the team has logged more than 600 laps up at Sunset Speedway.
4B Racing is also going through an expansion of the team to handle the extra duties of running a stock car. New 4B Racing members are crew chief, Glen Brown from Windsor and spotter, Don Blair of Burlington. The testing has given the team some much needed time to mesh together. "Whatever it takes, we are making sure that the team will be firing on all cylinders before we start to compete here in Ontario," team owner Darrell Brown said.
The team is excited about this season and the challenges it will present. Darrell Brown has stated that the focus this season is learning and gaining the respect of the teams Tyler will compete against. Tyler will continue to test the car at a variety of tracks as he prepares to make his first appearance in the Ontario Pro Challenge Series.
Darrell Brown also had some news on the sponsorship front. "We are also happy to announce that as well as Assante Wealth Management, V H Web DeZine and The Adin Group, 4B Racing has also added Leaf Racewear as a sponsor for 2005."
To keep up with Tyler Brown and the # 91 Dodge Intrepid, check the team’s web site at www.4bracing .com. On the site you will find Tyler’s profile, 2005 appearance schedule, press releases and a picture gallery.
Tyler Brown Fast Facts
Tyler Brown is a 13-year-old racer from Waterdown, Ontario. He has completed seven years of karting. He has started more than 225 races during his career and has won, "One championship”", "Most Improved Driver award", and a "Team of the Year" award. At the local level he has never finished lower than 5th in series points and at the regional or national level he has never finished lower than 10th.
Brown drives for 4B Racing (www.4bracing.com) and he is supported by Assante Wealth Management, VH Web Dezine, Leaf Racewear, The Adin Group Inc (www.adin.ca), and Big Brother Big Sisters.
For more information on Tyler Brown, contact Russ Bond Agency (www.russbondagency.com ) 905-852-2900.
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
STAR FORMULA MAZDA: AIM Autosport Adds Brandon Thomas
"AIM has competed in several different series in recent years due to instability within the sport however we appear to now be in the right place" said team principal Andrew Bordin. "We are honored to have so much interest in our Formula Mazda and Formula BMW USA teams in just our first year in the series. With this increase in interest comes the responsibility to select the proper drivers to develop- this is what we do best and is a key component of our success" Bordin also said.
"We've been talking to Brandon since the 2003 season but have been unable to put a deal together until now" said team manager Ian Willis. "The timing for Brandon to join our team was correct and he is a good fit for our program. His pace last year in the Formula Renault NA series was quite good considering the little experience he's had in open wheel cars" said Willis.
"Since I moved back from England I've been watching how Aim's success and admired how they produce results" said Brandon. "My expectations are to be in the top ten by the end of this season and fight for the championship in 2006.I look forward to the challenges of learning a new car this year which is more physically challenging combined with longer race distances. Having two competitive teammates is a huge advantage for me, I've already benefited from my new teammates after only two test days" said Brandon.
Willis is excited about the team's prospects in the Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear. Having what he refers to as a "Dream Team" of James Hinchcliffe, Mark Wilkins and now Brandon Thomas, all proven race winning contenders in AIM prepared cars.
"We not only have three fast drivers, we also have guys with an extremely positive team ethic which I know will create a great team dynamic."
Round Three of the Star Mazda Championship will be held at Mid-Ohio on May 19-21, where the team is currently in the middle of a two day test.
NASCAR: Crewman for Jeff Burton out for season following pitlane accident
After being released from a Birmingham, Ala., hospital following the May 1 NASCAR Cup event at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway, Yost was flown back to North Carolina to begin treatment at Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem.
During the exploratory surgery performed May 3, it was discovered Yost’s injuries included two ruptured tendons, damaged ligaments, a severe laceration and a crushed fibula tip. Yost then underwent reconstructive surgery May 5 to repair the ankle and was released from the hospital the following day.
He has been instructed by his doctors to remain off of the ankle for six to eight weeks and can then begin the lengthy rehabilitation process.
Dirt Motorsports: May 26th Event Postponed
"With the DIRT rules being enforced so well, it's unfair for both the touring drivers and our own weekly teams to keep the May date at this time," remarked Delaware promoter Charlie Cathell. "Our Modified cars are not yet 100% in line with the current DIRT rule book which needs to be followed to have a successful show. And the traveling teams shouldn't have to compromise their program or it would dilute the value of what this series is all about."
Under the direction of Cathell, the 1999 Auto Racing Promoter of the Year, Delaware has renewed its affiliation with DIRT MotorSports™ for the first time in seven years. While an Advance Auto Parts Super DIRT Series event was held last August, Bobby Wilkins earned the last DIRT big-block Modified points championship at the storied Delmar half-miler in 1998. Ironically, Billy Decker captured both Advance Auto SDS races held in 2004 and '98; Danny Johnson (1996) and Jack Johnson ('97) won the initial "North vs. South Shootout" title events.
"It's very important to remain consistent with our teams and build on what we've done so far with the Advance Auto Series," noted DIRT MotorSports™ Chief Operating Officer Bobby Hartslief. "Charlie is truly a team player and he fully understands that a level playing field must be maintained no matter where the race. We'll be talking again in the coming week and hopefully iron out a new date if it's determined to be feasible for both the track and the tour."
The next stop for the big-block Modifieds is at The Dirt Track @ Lowe's Motor Speedway for the Ferris Commercial Mowers presents the Eckerd 75 on May 25 before closing out the Memorial Day holiday with an Advance Auto Parts Super DIRT Series race at Cayuga County Fair (NY) Speedway on May 29.
Five-time overall Hoosier Tire-Sunoco Race Fuels Mr. DIRT champion Brett Hearn opened the Advance Auto Part Modified Super DIRT Series with a big-block win in the 25th DIRT Challenge Cup at Rolling Wheels (NY) Raceway on May 1. Hearn will accompany fellow 'Elite 11' drivers Pat Ward, Gary Tomkins, Matt Sheppard, Billy Decker, Chad Brachmann, Vic Coffey, Steve Paine, Danny Johnson, Stewart Friesen and Tim Fuller to Lowe's Dirt Track in Concord, N.C. for the Wednesday night showdown which is once again expected to attract all the top open-wheel racers from around the Northeast to NASCAR's backyard.
The DIRT MotorSports™ Advance Auto Parts Modified Series is brought to fans across the Northeast by several sponsors and partners, including series sponsors Advance Auto Parts, Dynomax Performance Exhaust, Hoosier Racing Tire and Sunoco Race Fuels. Promotional Partners include Stacker 2®, AMB i.t., RACEceiver and Zippo Lighters and the contingency sponsors are DART Machinery, Bicknell Racing Products, Bilstein Shocks, MSD Ignitions and Wrisco Industries.
Touring Cars: Walker scores top five in Netscape® / Kensai Racing RSX- Type S in first outing
"This was a great first weekend for the Netscape/Kensai Racing Acura RSX-Type S,” Walker said. “For a completely new car, it went really, really well. I felt comfortable right away and I could push hard to get the speed I needed to compete at the front.”
Walker missed some much needed practice sessions on Friday due to some noise issues that are in place at the St-Eustache track, but he made up for lost time in the short practice sessions he did get on Saturday and Sunday morning.
“The team worked hard on the new car all weekend. Because it is in Grand Am Cup trim, we had a few noise issues to address, but they got it sorted out and it wasn’t a problem after that.”
Walker drew 16th out of 24 for the qualifying race, and immediately he pushed the Netscape/Kensai Racing Acura RSX-Type S towards the front of the field overtaking 11 cars to finish a solid fifth.
“We are down on horsepower due to the configuration the car is in,” Walker said. “But it handled so good, I could make up time and beat cars that should be much faster than us. This really is a great car, and it gives the team and me lots of confidence moving forward.”
In the 25 lap final, Walker immediately moved forward again to take third. He held that position until just a few laps remaining when he developed tire and braking issues.
“Because of the lack of power in Grand Am Cup trim I really used up the brakes and tires,” Walker said.
Two cars slipped by, demoting Walker to fifth, but he battled back to retake fourth, which is where he finished.
“This was a good weekend for the whole team,” Walker said. “We learned a lot about this car, and the development we need to do on it. For the first weekend, I am really happy with the Netscape /Kensai Racing Acura RSX-Type S.”
Walker will now have a few test sessions to improve the car, and get ready for round 2 of the FAQ Touring Hankook Championship at Sanair at the end of May.
Karting: Paul Lapierre joins Cameron Motorsports
"I am really excited about this opportunity," said Lapierre. "This is a totally professional operation everything from chassis to support, and some great drivers. The opportunities here are endless, not only for drivers, but tuners as well. From the tuning side, Cameron has everything we need to do our job for our drivers. Having our own on site track that we can test at anytime is going to pay huge dividends this year. One thing is for sure, when we go to the races, we'll be ready."
Lapierre has been on the tuning end of karting for many years, but he really made a name for himself by tuning for Markham's Daniel Morad for the past three seasons. The duo have collected numerous regional and National championships in both Canada and the USA.
"Dan and I work well together, and we will continue to work together in 2005." Lapierre said.
Cameron Motorsports Bob Cameron is happy to have yet another first rate tuner join the Cameron Motorsports team.
"We have everything we need to succeed," Cameron said. "CRG Chassis, a great engine program, the best drivers, and now a full complement of the best tuners around."
Lapierre joins other noted tuners Trevor Wickens, Wrex Roth and Levon Beaudin, as well as a host of front line mechanics, all of which are now part of the Cameron Motorsports family.
NICE TRY: Rusty Wallace flips Tony Danza's go-kart in race
ABC News: Rusty Wallace flips Tony Danza's go-kart in race: "Associated Press
May 9 NEW YORK - Tony Danza got quite a scare when he and NASCAR star Rusty Wallace were racing go-karts during the taping of a segment for the nationally syndicated 'The Tony Danza Show.'
Danza was leading as they entered the final lap Monday morning on West 66th Street, the show said. After Wallace gave Danza's vehicle a little 'bump and run,' the 54-year-old talk-show host lost control of his go-kart, which flipped over. "
... more at link above....
SOS: SOUTHERN ONTARIO SPRINTS SEASON OPENER POSTPONED!
Brighton Speedway – May 7, 2005
The Southern Ontario Sprints launched their 10th anniversary season last Saturday at Brighton Speedway in front of a packed house. The Heat Races and the Dash for Cash had all been completed and the Feature was lined up waiting to close out the first nights activities when the program was brought to a sudden halt.
Brighton Speedway’s top class, the Canadian Modifieds were on the track running their feature event when the race was slowed for a minor spin. While under caution, local favorite and Brighton Speedway’s legendary driver of the K5, Danny Reid suddenly spun out off control and came to rest on the infield at the start/finish line. Reid was removed from his racecar unconscious and taken to Trenton Memorial Hospital where he was later pronounced dead, caused by a Massive Coronary. The balance of the program was postponed.
Reid will be dearly missed by his family, friends, fellow competitors and Speedway Officials. The SOS also passes on condolences to the Reid family at this time of great loss and our prayers are with you!
A total of 14 SOS competitors were on hand for the season opener. Heat Race wins went to Dick Mahoney from Newmarket and Adam West of Ridgetown. The Dash for Cash went to Ohsweken’s Glenn Styres. The Dash for Cash this season has been changed to give fans a chance to win as well. Fans will enter a draw and if selected, they will then draw one of the dash competitors. If their driver wins the Dash, they will receive an SOS prize pack. The first fan winner was Steve Savage of Ameliasburgh.
The SOS plans on running a double Feature next time the series returns to Brighton. Next up on the 10th Anniversary Tour will be the first of seven points races scheduled at Ohsweken Speedway. This event will take place on Friday, May 20th with the action starting at 7:45 sharp.
Leaf Racewear Heat
1. #79 – Dick Mahoney, Newmarket, ON; 2. #25 – Warren Mahoney, Lefroy, ON; 3. #16k – Kyle Wilson, Joyceville, ON; 4. #22 – Jim Porter, Grand Island, NY; 5. #71 – Craig Downie, Burlington, ON; 6. #17m – Charlie McCann, London, ON; 7. #17 – Gary Evans, Thorndale, ON
Wiseco Heat
1. #30 – Adam West, Ridgetown, ON; 2. #0 – Glenn Styres, Ohsweken, ON; 3. #18j – Jack Pillon, Belle River, ON; 4. #26 – John Watson, St. Thomas, ON; 5. #93 – Daryl Turford, Stratford, ON; 6. #8 – Brian Lee, Windsor, ON; dns. #10 – Bob Crawford, Sutton, ON
Dash for Cash
1. 0 – Glenn Styres; 2. #30 – Adam West; 3. #16k – Kyle Wilson; 4. #79 – Dick Mahoney
BRIGHTON SPEEDWAY: Danny Reid visitation information
In case anyone wanted to pay their respects....
Visitation: Tuesday May 10 2pm-4 pm and 7pm-9pm and funeral service Wednesday May 11 2pm all will be held at Walas funeral home Main St. Brighton
The Reid family would also like us to let everyone know that there will be an opportunity to remember Danny in a social forum after the funeral on Wednesday at the Brighton Legion. All are welcome.
- From Brighton Speedway
Monday, May 09, 2005
Stocks: Eaton Electrical/Eaton Cutler Hammer to sponsor Luskville Dragway
The Ultimate Power Trip at Luskville DragwayLuskville, Quebec (May 6, 2005) - Eaton Electrical/Eaton Cutler Hammer announced today it will make Luskville Dragway and the Pro Mod Challenge featuring the Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA) its choice for an event to support in the 2005 season.
Commented Paul Tlustos, Marketing Communications Manager for Eaton Electrical Canadian Operations: "We are looking forward with great expectations to our relationship with Luskville Dragway and the Pro Mod Challenge event. We have long been a supporter of this style of racing, which is evident by our logos on the sides of a number of prominent Pro Modified Cars. We have heard nothing but good things about the way Luskville Dragway produces and promotes its races and are very pleased to be involved with them this season."
"This news is incredible in a season which never seems to end with great announcements," said Arnie Malcolm. "We certainly have our work cut out for us," he added. "We will make sure that all involved leave happy."
Upwards of 1000 Eaton employees and family members from all over Canada will be part of the quest list that invades Luskville Dragway on the July 1-3 weekend. The event is jammed-packed full of excitement with Pro Modifieds, Top Sportsman, Top Dragster, Super Pro, Semi Pro, Jr. Dragster Championship, Drag Sleds, Live Bands, two cruise nights, and other items of interest.
This will be Luskville Dragway's National Event, so plan now to be part of a little bit of history this season at Luskville Dragway July 1-3.Situated near Aylmer, Quebec, just 15 minutes from Ottawa, Ontario,
www.luskvilledragway.com, is a fully-sanctioned NHRA track featuring some of the best in quarter-mile competition in Canada. With competition from Sport Compacts to Jet Cars, this track offers drag racing for everyone.
Luskville operates from May to September.
Karting: Maxime Pelletier joins Cameron Motorsports
HAMILTON, ONTARIO - One of the top ranked junior drivers in the country, France-born Maxime Pelletier, has joined Cameron Motorsports for 2005 after a weekend test at Cameron’s Hamilton facility.
“I was very excited and pleased to be offered a test at the Hamilton track on the weekend,” said Pelletier. “Everything went extremely well on Sunday. The CRG/Cameron chassis is amazing to drive. I would like to thank Tim Sinclair, my mechanic and Trevor Wickens for working with me and helping me win my first race of the year.”
Pelletier’s test, in part, was to run the Rotax Max Jr. race with the Hamilton Regional Kart Club, an event in which he dominated. Remy Pelletier, Maxime’s father, was as excited as his son about the ‘surprise’ test.
“We were in the Toronto area where I am developing my business when we decided to stop and see our friends at Cameron Motorsports. Thanks to Bob Cameron, Trevor Wickens and Levon Beaudin for offering the test to Maxime, I could see right away that he was very comfortable with the chassis. He put in some quick times from the very first laps,” Remy Pelletier said.
Bob Cameron was impressed with the young star and his performance in a new chassis at a new track. He immediately offered him a spot in the Cameron Motorsports team for the 2005 season.
“We are extremely pleased to welcome Maxime to the Cameron Motorsports family. On his first opportunity to drive our CRG chassis, he qualified it on the pole amongst a strong Rotax Junior field and went on to win the race. Maxime is very quick and he will be a strong competitor in Rotax and Formula Junior,” Cameron said.
Pelletier was quick to realize the opportunity offered to him by Cameron and he jumped at the chance to join the high profile team.
“I’m pleased to join the Cameron Motorsports team, there is a great atmosphere here and the people are very dedicated,” Maxime Pelletier said. “Now I can start focusing on the first event of the Sunoco Ron Fellows Karting Championship in Goodwood, I’ve got everything in place for a great season.”
ONT. PRO CHALL.: Russ Bond to drive F1-K / MMG Financial Dodge Charger in 2005

“This is a great opportunity for me,” Bond said. “Both Bob Cameron, who heads up the F1-K arrive-and-drive program in Hamilton, and Malcolm McMaster of MMG Financial are fully behind this program. My job is to get race fans more involved in motorsports. The F1-K arrive-and-drive karting program is just the ticket for the fans we see in the stands at the tracks we travel to. They and, or their kids can get involved with the highly successful karting arrive and drive program at Cameron Motorsports Park in Hamilton. All they have to do is sign up and race. It is a great way of getting involved in motorsports, and have a ton of fun doing it, without the expense of buying all the equipment needed to go racing.”
Bob Cameron and Malcolm McMaster feel Bond and the F1-K MMG Financial Dodge Charger are a natural fit. “Russ is one of karting’s strongest supporters in Canada,” Cameron said. “He is a great spokesman for the sport as a whole and we feel with him driving the F1-K MMG Financial Charger, the awareness of our arrive-and-drive series is bound to increase.”
Several exciting promotions are scheduled during the year, including a special ‘arrive and drive’ day in the F1-K MMG Financial Dodge Charger for selected F1-K arrive and drive karters.
Cameron Motorsports Fast Facts;
Cameron Motorsports is Canada’s largest karting entity. It operates Cameron Motorsports Park in Hamilton, and the Mosport International Karting complex. Cameron Motorsports is the importer and distributor of the F1-K International for Canada. Cameron Motorsports’ arrive and drive programs have over 2200 members that compete annually. Based in Hamilton, Ontario, Cameron Motorsports carries a complete line of karting equipment and services for the karting community. Cameron Motorsports also fields a top flite team in the Sunoco Ron Fellows Karting Championship and selected US based events.
For more information on Cameron Motorsports, visit www.cameronmotorsports.com or call them at 905-679-2122
MMG Financial Fast Facts;
MMG Financial, Motorsports Division is involved in karting through equity participation in racing facilities and financing of racing equipment. The Dundas based company also has joint venture agreements with commercial partners in China as well as an import-export division. MMG Financial can be reached at 905-628-1235.
Release prepared by Russ Bond Agency (www.russbondagency.com )
For Hi-Res images, contact Russ Bond at r.bond@russbondagency.com
BRIGHTON SPEEDWAY: Loses a legend
BRIGHTON, ON - The Canadian Modified Feature race on Saturday night at Brighton Speedway started with 19 cars ready to race for the first flag of the season.
The race didn’t finish, and the program was postponed, as an unexpected incident stopped the races for the night. The K5 car of Danny Reid suddenly spun out in the infield off of the 4th corner during the 13th lap, while under caution. Danny was transported to Trenton Memorial Hospital where he was later pronounced dead. A Massive Coronary took away a true legend of Brighton Speedway. He will be missed by fans and fellow competitors.
Staff and Management of Brighton Speedway Park send their condolences to the family, friends and fans of Danny Reid. A tribute to Danny will be held before starting next week’s program.
All spectators at the Season Opener, who were advised to keep their tickets, will receive a $2.00 discount for any race event, excluding Sunday May 22, up to and including June 11th, the next SOS night in Brighton. For each ticket returned at the gate, Brighton Speedway Park will also make a $2.00 donation in Danny Reid’s name to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
CASCAR: Racesportz Hot Wheels unveiled
MISSISSAUGA, ON – Mattel Canada have announced their return as the primary sponsor of Team RaceSportz for their entry in the Cascar Power Water Sportsman Series driven by Todd Musker. The Hot Wheels Cascar will be a 2005 Ford Taurus, the chassis was built by Kenyon Racing in Kemptville, Ontario with John Stefko preparing the engines.

Mattel has had a long history in racing around the world and looks forward to being involved in Cascar in Canada. Mattel has been involved with RaceSportz for 5 years; with the Hot Wheels Late Model driven by Todd Musker winning the 2004 Ottodrome Speedway Late Model Championship.
“We look forward to bringing the Hot Wheels brand to Cascar” states owner Dave Connelly of RaceSportz. “Todd is a great driver and extremely mature for his age, we’ve got a fantastic car and look forward competing in this series”.
Mattel and RaceSportz will be involved off the race track with the Hot Wheels “Design a Toy Challenge”. Elementary schools throughout Ontario will have the opportunity to design a brand new toy for Mattel Canada. The winning class from each school will receive a visit for the Hot Wheels Race Team who will provide the entire class Mattel’s “Formula Fuelers” Hot Wheels toys.
For more information, contact Dave Connelly and RaceSportz at (613) 623-1511 or visit www.racesportz.com

