Courtesy simplyfast.ca
Thursday August 11, 2005 - We are saddened to have to announce the cancellation of Hankook Touring and Excellence Chrysler Formula 1600 Cup events scheduled for August 26, 27 and 28 which were to run on the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve during the Montreal Molson Indy. Round 5 of the Hankook Touring Championship and Round 6 of the Excellence Chrysler Formula 1600 Cup will instead be run on the Sanair road circuit Saturday September 10th.
Contrary to some rumours, both series won’t run because of a lack of available track time, this after stealing the show in 2004. Meeting with Autocourse during the Trois-Rivieres Grand Prix, the Molson Indy organizers confirmed Champ Car did not agree to reduce time allotted to the Trans-Am series, Pace Cars lapping sessions and Champ Car two-seater demonstrations despite several requests in the last couple of weeks.
However, we were pleased to learn Mr. Normand Legault, Molson Indy Montreal President, was impressed by the quality of the cars and of the show offered by both the Touring Hankook and Excellence Chrysler drivers in Trois-Rivieres, and hopes to play host to both series on the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve in 2006.
About the Hankook Quebec ChampionshipThe Championship is proud of its prestigious partners : Hankook Tires, Excellence Chrysler, Motul, Cogismaq, Trac Racing Depot, G-nius Communication, Optik Design, Lettrage Provan and RDS Motorisé. For more information on the Quebec Championship, full results and high-resolution pictures, please visit www.autocourse.ca , or contact Dominic St-Jean by phone at (514) 382-8777 or by email at dominic@autocourse.ca.
G-nius Communication - http://www.g-nius.ca
Friday, August 12, 2005
ESS: Black Rock Speedway this weekend
By Alain Forcier, Team BergeronThe action is back again this weekend for the 'Annual Earl Halaquist Memorial' at Black Rock Speedway, Dundee NY.
This race will regroup the 'Empire Super Sprints' and 'Patriot Sprint Group' associations, so there will be a lot of drivers who will try to qualify for the 24 spots available on the starting of the A-Main event and Alain Bergeron plans to be a part of it.
With the successes of the last weeks of the driver of Saint Pie QC, all Quebec racing fans will follow that race with great interest.
Also let us note that given the fact that this weekend, the NASCAR Nextel Cup series will be at Watkins Glen, not far from Black Rock Speedway, it is frequent to see drivers of this famous series walking in the pit area and greeting their colleagues, drivers of Sprint Car.
Thanks for your support!
RCR and Tracy Decide Not to Run at MIS
Courtesy Richard Childress RacingWELCOME, N.C. (Aug. 12, 2005) -- After two days of successful testing at Michigan International Speedway (MIS), Richard Childress Racing (RCR) and Paul Tracy have decided that not enough time remains before the Aug. 20 GFS Marketplace 400 at MIS to prepare for Tracy’s first entry in a NASCAR event.
“I’m very impressed with Paul’s ability in a race car, whether it’s a Cup car or a Champ Car, but it was just too short a time to put the right program together,” said Richard Childress, president and CEO of RCR. “Paul’s a champion and he had a very good test but we want to do this right and be fully prepared to give him a maximum effort.”
Childress hopes to race Tracy again later this year.
“I have the greatest respect for the guys that drive Cup cars week-in and week-out,” said Tracy. “It takes a lot of preparation to be ready for a highly competitive event like the NEXTEL Cup Series and we just didn’t have the time to do the job right. I want to thank Richard for giving me this opportunity and the crew guys at the test for all of their effort. My primary goal this year is the pursuit of the Bridgestone/Ford Champ Car World Series Championship.”
OHSWEKEN RAINED OUT
Unfortunately due to heavy rains on early Friday morning the racing card at the Ohsweken Speedway has been cancelled for Friday August 12th.
A saturated pit area was the main culprit however with so much rain falling and more scheduled to be on its way there was no choice but to cancel.
There has been no word as of yet on the fate of the Southern Ontario Sprints event scheduled to be run. Up next at Ohsweken, Speedway Variety Proudly Presents the Mini Stock Ladies Race, Street Stock Mechanics race plus a regular card of racing.
For more information visit http://www.ohswekenspeedway.com
- Ohsweken Insider
A saturated pit area was the main culprit however with so much rain falling and more scheduled to be on its way there was no choice but to cancel.
There has been no word as of yet on the fate of the Southern Ontario Sprints event scheduled to be run. Up next at Ohsweken, Speedway Variety Proudly Presents the Mini Stock Ladies Race, Street Stock Mechanics race plus a regular card of racing.
For more information visit http://www.ohswekenspeedway.com
- Ohsweken Insider
DAYTONA AUTOMOTIVE EQUIPMENT BOOSTS DUEL IN THE DIRT BONUSES TO MORE THAN $3,000: CHALLENGE NOW TO MERRITTVILLE HOOSIER STOCKS AND BRIGHTON PRO STOCKS
By Jim Irvine
Thorold, Ontario … “It all started with some bantering back and forth with two of my employees – both who are stock car racing enthusiasts,” says Joe Dennison, President of Daytona Automotive Equipment in Brighton Ontario.
“Next thing I knew I had the cheque book out and ‘Daytona Duel in the Dirt’ was a reality,” explains Dennison, “ it seemed almost natural that the only way to solve the dispute between my two guys – Terry and Dave - as to which track had the best drivers was a team challenge between the two tracks – Merrittville and Brighton Speedways.
Terry Kaiser is the Niagara area representative for Daytona Automotive Equipment while Dave Culford – who races a car at Brighton, is a Daytona Service Advisor.
The end result is a 100 lap challenge race for the Daytona Champions Flag between the best Hoosier Stock drivers from Merrittville Speedway and Pro Stock drivers from Brighton Speedway. The 100 laps will be split between 50 lap events at Merrittville Saturday September 10th after the opener at Brighton Sunday September 4th.
“Originally, I was thinking that if we sponsored this event it might put the bantering to rest,” says Dennison, “but I can see that one of the guys is going to want a rematch about five minutes after the Champions Flag is presented.”
“Merrittville Speedway is the oldest and best 3/8th’s mile dirt tracks in Canada, regularly attracting some of the finest racers from Southern Ontario and the eastern US … Dave,” boasts Kaiser.
“Hold on to your hat Terry,” Culford steps in,” you aren’t a real driver until you have won a Pro Stock feature at Brighton Speedway.”
“I think we have the edge,” informs Erica Bicknell, General Manager of Merrittville Speedway, “we have great drivers and the fans in Southern Ontario to cheer them on.” As Bicknell completes her words, Mark Rinaldi, owner of Brighton Speedway responds that he has found the perfect spot at his facility to hoist the Daytona Champions Flag for the coming year.
Daytona Automotive Equipment has posted a $1000 Team Challenge Fund that will be awarded to the winning Merrittville Hoosier Stock or Brighton Pro Stock Team. All of the Merrittville Speedway Driver points will be added up as will all of the Brighton Driver points for the two races. The team with the most total points will win the $1000.00. To be included in a team’s total - a driver must have attempted to qualify for both events.
Daytona Automotive Equipment is also providing a Champions Flag that will fly at the winning Speedway the following season.
Daytona Automotive Equipment – with Head Offices and a warehouse facility in
Brighton Ontario – manufactures a line of automotive lifts, tire changers, wheel balancers and auto body frame machines for the automotive service and repair industry.
Daytona Automotive Equipment is distributed across North America. For further information call 1-866-219-9991 or visit www.daytonaproducts.com.
In addition to the $1,000 Daytona cash award, more than $2,000 will be awarded to the top 10 drivers in the two race series in a Point Fund donated by Environmental Remediation Contractor D.L. Services and Lawns We Do – two Brighton Speedway area companies.
The two race event has to be the most lucrative event for grass roots racers in Ontario and all of Canada. If a driver was to win each 50 lap $1000 to win event – with the bonus money the winners share would reach over $3,000.
“The corporate support for this event has just been phenomenal and it keeps getting bigger,” relates Merrittville co-owner Nancy Bicknell, adding “ last year some of Hoosier Stock Drivers went to Brighton and did well and Mark and I have been working on this challenge since then.”
Merrittville Speedway’s Duel in the Dirt portion September 10th is part of a 3 day Season Finale that features Friday Night and Sunday Afternoon action. The Rose Webber Memorial presented by J&S Heating attracts top Mod Lite and Dwarf Car teams from across Canada and the US for Friday and Saturday’s events while a 100 lap Enduro and Demo Derby close out the weekend Sunday – a presentation of Konzelmann Estates Winery.
Free Camping is available for the entire weekend.
Merrittville Speedway is located just south of St. Catharines in Thorold Ontario. For further information call 905-892-8266 or visit www.merrittvi l lespeedway.com.
Brighton Speedway event info - call 613-475-1102 or visit www.brightonspeedway.com
Thorold, Ontario … “It all started with some bantering back and forth with two of my employees – both who are stock car racing enthusiasts,” says Joe Dennison, President of Daytona Automotive Equipment in Brighton Ontario.
“Next thing I knew I had the cheque book out and ‘Daytona Duel in the Dirt’ was a reality,” explains Dennison, “ it seemed almost natural that the only way to solve the dispute between my two guys – Terry and Dave - as to which track had the best drivers was a team challenge between the two tracks – Merrittville and Brighton Speedways.
Terry Kaiser is the Niagara area representative for Daytona Automotive Equipment while Dave Culford – who races a car at Brighton, is a Daytona Service Advisor.
The end result is a 100 lap challenge race for the Daytona Champions Flag between the best Hoosier Stock drivers from Merrittville Speedway and Pro Stock drivers from Brighton Speedway. The 100 laps will be split between 50 lap events at Merrittville Saturday September 10th after the opener at Brighton Sunday September 4th.
“Originally, I was thinking that if we sponsored this event it might put the bantering to rest,” says Dennison, “but I can see that one of the guys is going to want a rematch about five minutes after the Champions Flag is presented.”
“Merrittville Speedway is the oldest and best 3/8th’s mile dirt tracks in Canada, regularly attracting some of the finest racers from Southern Ontario and the eastern US … Dave,” boasts Kaiser.
“Hold on to your hat Terry,” Culford steps in,” you aren’t a real driver until you have won a Pro Stock feature at Brighton Speedway.”
“I think we have the edge,” informs Erica Bicknell, General Manager of Merrittville Speedway, “we have great drivers and the fans in Southern Ontario to cheer them on.” As Bicknell completes her words, Mark Rinaldi, owner of Brighton Speedway responds that he has found the perfect spot at his facility to hoist the Daytona Champions Flag for the coming year.
Daytona Automotive Equipment has posted a $1000 Team Challenge Fund that will be awarded to the winning Merrittville Hoosier Stock or Brighton Pro Stock Team. All of the Merrittville Speedway Driver points will be added up as will all of the Brighton Driver points for the two races. The team with the most total points will win the $1000.00. To be included in a team’s total - a driver must have attempted to qualify for both events.
Daytona Automotive Equipment is also providing a Champions Flag that will fly at the winning Speedway the following season.
Daytona Automotive Equipment – with Head Offices and a warehouse facility in
Brighton Ontario – manufactures a line of automotive lifts, tire changers, wheel balancers and auto body frame machines for the automotive service and repair industry.
Daytona Automotive Equipment is distributed across North America. For further information call 1-866-219-9991 or visit www.daytonaproducts.com.
In addition to the $1,000 Daytona cash award, more than $2,000 will be awarded to the top 10 drivers in the two race series in a Point Fund donated by Environmental Remediation Contractor D.L. Services and Lawns We Do – two Brighton Speedway area companies.
The two race event has to be the most lucrative event for grass roots racers in Ontario and all of Canada. If a driver was to win each 50 lap $1000 to win event – with the bonus money the winners share would reach over $3,000.
“The corporate support for this event has just been phenomenal and it keeps getting bigger,” relates Merrittville co-owner Nancy Bicknell, adding “ last year some of Hoosier Stock Drivers went to Brighton and did well and Mark and I have been working on this challenge since then.”
Merrittville Speedway’s Duel in the Dirt portion September 10th is part of a 3 day Season Finale that features Friday Night and Sunday Afternoon action. The Rose Webber Memorial presented by J&S Heating attracts top Mod Lite and Dwarf Car teams from across Canada and the US for Friday and Saturday’s events while a 100 lap Enduro and Demo Derby close out the weekend Sunday – a presentation of Konzelmann Estates Winery.
Free Camping is available for the entire weekend.
Merrittville Speedway is located just south of St. Catharines in Thorold Ontario. For further information call 905-892-8266 or visit www.merrittvi l lespeedway.com.
Brighton Speedway event info - call 613-475-1102 or visit www.brightonspeedway.com
TRIPLE ON DECK FOR SOD THIS WEEKEND
By Ken Pelkie, Sprints On Dirt, Holt, MIAfter nearly two weeks off, the Engine Pro Sprints On Dirt series presented by Total Seal swings back into action with three events this weekend.
First up will be the return to the Shiawassee County Fair on Thursday night, August 11th to do battle on the quarter mile. Last season, the Ohio Outlaw J.R. Stewart captured the inaugural event at this unique facility that only hosts one race per year. Gates are to open at 4 p.m. with hot laps at 6:30. Racing is scheduled to begin at 7:00 sharp with the show to be completed by dusk.
Then the series moves on to Mt. Pleasant for round two on the weekend. Last year, defending SOD Champion, Dustin Daggett took the victory in the first appearance at the quarter mile since 1993.
Round three at Merritt Speedway will mark the final stop on the weekend. When SOD last visited Merritt on July 23, Len Robison collected his first career SOD feature over Rookie, Louie Carufel.
Current Point Leader, Tim Norman holds a slim 28 point lead over Ben Rutan while Gregg Dalman, Kyle Patrick and Louie Carufel are all within 87 points of the leader.
Be sure to check back often on the official website of SOD at http://www.sprintsondirt.com/ for all the news and results as the “Winged Warriors with an Attitude” continue on their 2005 Tour.
Double the Fun! Two 100-Lap Pro Stock Races Saturday Night, Tucker Going for $10,000
By Gord Curran, General ManagerAugust 10th, 2005, Fredericton, NB – NBIS continues to catch up on some early season weather challenges with two 100-lap CARQUEST Pro Stock events slated for Saturday night starting at 7pm. The Coast Tire “Best of the Best” Pro Stock 100, originally slated to run on July 1st, and the scheduled Cobra Lubricants “Best of the Best” Pro Stock 100 are on tap. All eyes will be on Shawn Tucker who can take home $10,000 if he can win both races. There will also be points racing in the Martin’s Home Heating Sportsman and Coast Tire Street Stock Divisions.
The Coast Tire “Best of the Best” 100 was originally scheduled for July 1st, but a mid-race rain shower following completion of the heats and dashes forced the feature to this coming weekend. The race will start promptly at 7pm before the regularly scheduled events. Following completion of the Coast Tire “Best of the Best” 100, NBIS will start qualifying for the Cobra Lubricants “Best of the Best” 100 in addition to the heats and dashes for the Martin’s Home Heating Sportsman and Coast Tire Street Stocks.
The “Best of the Best” Pro Stock Series is a mini-series featuring three 100-lap events. For each event, position points are awarded towards the overall mini-series championship. However, position points awarded during the “Best of the Best” are not added to the season long CARQUEST Pro Stock Division Points Championship. Instead, each driver who runs a “Best of the Best” event receives 30 points towards the overall point’s championship (show up points).
All the attention will be on Shawn Tucker as he attempts to take home a $10,000 bonus for sweeping the all three “Best of the Best” events. Tucker won the CARQUEST “Best of the Best” Pro Stock 100 completed on July 1st with a late lap pass on Glenn Rasmussen and is considered a top contender each time he hits the track. No driver has ever won the bonus although defending CARQUEST Pro Stock Division Champion Dave O’Blenis came the closest three years ago when he took the first two races and was in contention during the third race before getting involved in an incident that took him out of the race.
Even if Tucker fails in his attempt to capture all three, he is still in line for some nice prize money if he can win the overall three-race series. Leon Lirette from the Capital City Roofing contributed $500 to the overall champion of the “Best of the Best”, the second year that Lirette has added prize money to the series. The overall winner also receives four (4) new Hoosier racing slicks from NBIS. Glen Livet’s Brad Mann won the “Best of the Best” series last season although he was tied with Kirk Thibeau after three races – Mann was given the edge because he won the first event. Mann is a three-time CARQUEST Pro Stock Division Champion while Thibeau was the winner of the inaugural Irving Oil 250 in 2001.
Although they are not the highlight of the evening, the Martin’s Home Heating Sportsman and Coast Tire Street Stocks should provide some outstanding entertainment as the points races in both divisions are heating up. For complete points standings, please go to www.nbisonline.com/standings.
If you or your company would like to sponsor an event, contribute a contingency award, or put up additional prize money, please contact the speedway office at (506) 455-4231 or send an e-mail to info@nbisonline.com.
Should the weather not cooperate, the rain date is Sunday at 2pm. Fans and drivers should call 506-454-RACE (7223) for updates.
PMRA competitors to meet in New York at Lancaster
Presented by: G-Force Race Cars, Jan-Cen Racing Engines and Oddy's Racing Inc.Courtesy Bruce F. Mehlenbacher, Director of Operations
August 11, 2005, Cayuga, ON - The Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA), www.promodifiedracing.com is set to compete Friday, August 19 at New York State’s Lancaster Motorsports Park, a popular eighth-mile facility just north of Buffalo in Clarence, New York.
Many of the New York-based PMRA competitors consider Lancaster their home track, and have raced there many times, including Kenmore, NY’s Joe Lilienthal, who took a popular victory at Luskville Dragway in the previous PMRA meet.
The driver of the popular Jeep-bodied Pro Modified considers Lancaster his favorite place to race, and said he plans “to kick some butt” during the Friday-night show.
Other New Yorkers scheduled to compete include North Tonawanda’s Grainy Brothers, Mark Mitchell of East Otto in his wild-looking “Rude Stude” Pro Mod, and Medina’s Mike Stawicki with his Camaro.
The New Yorkers will face some heavy competition from Southern Ontario at Lancaster, including Smokin’ Joe Boniferro of Niagara Falls in his Avenger, Bruce Boland of Hamilton and his Corvette, Dave Earhart of Strathroy in his sleek black Camaro, Mark Nielsen from Brantford and his Camaro and Kasey Janzen of Niagara Falls, who provides the fans with some great burnouts in his Chevy Lumina.
“We’re going to have a good show at Lancaster,” said Janzen. “All the guys are familiar with the track, and know how to get down this strip. We’re going to give the Lancaster fans a good time.”
Joining the PMRA Pro Modifieds at Lancaster Motorsports Park will be the Can-Am Stock/Super Stock Series. The popular grass-roots drag series which features competitors from Ontario and New York, was formed in 1996, and continues to grow each season. The participants, known for their awesome wheelies, are fan favorites wherever they appear.
“A lot of our guys raced at Lancaster many years ago, including myself,” said Can-Am official F.J. Smith. “We’re all looking forward to returning and having a good time.”
MacLeod looking to retain momentum at Cayuga
“I have watched many superstars at Cayuga over the years and I’ve always said it is one of my favorite race tracks.”By Bruce F. Mehlenbacher, Director of Public Relations
August 10, 2005, Innisfil, ON – Running the Central Merchant Services Ford Taurus, 32 year-old MacLeod Racing team driver Tara MacLeod from Innisfil, Ontario, is focusing on a good finish at Cayuga Speedway this Sunday.
“I’ve never had much of a chance to race at Cayuga, but a good finish there would be very important to the Central Merchant Services Team”, said Tara MacLeod. “Every week we are getting closer to securing the PowerWater Rookie of the Year Championship and with four races to go in the season every week is important.”
MacLeod currently leads the PowerWater CASCAR Super Series Rookie of the year standings, and is 13th in the 2005 CASCAR Super Series Points Championship.
“Cayuga has always been an icon in Canadian Motorsports,” added MacLeod. “I have watched many Super Stars at Cayuga over the years and I’ve always said it is one of my favorite race tracks.”
The CASCAR Super Series race will take place Sunday, August 14 at Cayuga Speedway located in Nelles Corners, Ontario on the 5/8th-mile oval.
For information about Cayuga Speedway tickets and camping, call the Cayuga Speedway Hotline at 1.905.768.1177 (Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET) or visit online at http://www.cayuga2000speedway.com/.
PHOTO: Kasey Kahne & Mark Dilley at the NASCAR SpeedPark at Vaughan Mills last night
Thanks to Joe Hamilton for the use of this photo!
NASCAR: Tracy won't race at Michigan... from TSN.CA
Tracy won't race NASCAR at Michigan next week
Paul Tracy will have the weekend off next week after all.
Two days of testing at Michigan earlier this week was not enough to convince NASCAR owner Richard Childress that Tracy is ready to make his Nextel Cup debut at the high speed oval in next weekend's GFS Marketplace 400.
The team has yet to say what the reason is behind the decision.
By all appearances Tracy gave a good account of himself during a two-day test at the Michigan oval, a track where the former Champ Car champion still holds the open-wheel qualifying record with a top speed of 234.949 mph set in July 2000.
"He adapted to the race car really fast, he adapted well to the way we do things as a group," Bobbie Leslie, special projects crew chief with RCR, said of Tracy's test. "He's really impressed all of us."
Tracy admitted that the test was also an opportunity to see if NASCAR was the next logical step in his racing career.
"I've done about all I can do and accomplished everything I wanted to in Champ Car," he said Tuesday. "When this opportunity comes around to get in with a good car, it's really what keeps you motivated.
"I need to try something different to keep my motivation high. Whether it's making a change, which is big in your whole lifestyle, or sticking with what I have now."
Paul Tracy will have the weekend off next week after all.
Two days of testing at Michigan earlier this week was not enough to convince NASCAR owner Richard Childress that Tracy is ready to make his Nextel Cup debut at the high speed oval in next weekend's GFS Marketplace 400.
The team has yet to say what the reason is behind the decision.
By all appearances Tracy gave a good account of himself during a two-day test at the Michigan oval, a track where the former Champ Car champion still holds the open-wheel qualifying record with a top speed of 234.949 mph set in July 2000.
"He adapted to the race car really fast, he adapted well to the way we do things as a group," Bobbie Leslie, special projects crew chief with RCR, said of Tracy's test. "He's really impressed all of us."
Tracy admitted that the test was also an opportunity to see if NASCAR was the next logical step in his racing career.
"I've done about all I can do and accomplished everything I wanted to in Champ Car," he said Tuesday. "When this opportunity comes around to get in with a good car, it's really what keeps you motivated.
"I need to try something different to keep my motivation high. Whether it's making a change, which is big in your whole lifestyle, or sticking with what I have now."
SHOULDICE ALSTAR: Peterborough Schedule
SHOULDICE STONE ALSTAR SERIES
NEXT RACE: Round #10
Peterborough Speedway
Saturday, August 13
Pit Gate Opens at: 1:00pm
Practice: 2:00 till 4:15
Drivers Meeting: 5:00
Crew Chief Meeting: 5:15pm
Racing at 6pm
Autograph Session: 8:30
Feature ALSTAR Race - 8
NEXT RACE: Round #10
Peterborough Speedway
Saturday, August 13
Pit Gate Opens at: 1:00pm
Practice: 2:00 till 4:15
Drivers Meeting: 5:00
Crew Chief Meeting: 5:15pm
Racing at 6pm
Autograph Session: 8:30
Feature ALSTAR Race - 8
CASCAR Super Series: Cayuga Preview
CASCAR heads to Cayuga 2000 Speedway on Sunday for the ninth event of the ’05 Super Series schedule
LONDON, ON – The CASCAR Super Series makes its lone appearance of the season at Cayuga 2000 Speedway on Sunday afternoon for a 200-lap race at the 5/8-mile oval. Because of its size and speed, Cayuga has long been a highly anticipated destination for CASCAR’s racers and fans.
Heading to Cayuga, Don Thomson Jr. leads the Super Series points chase as he continues his quest for a fifth-consecutive CASCAR National championship. The Home Hardware Chevy driver is coming off a runner-up finish in the Mosport Speedway 200 last Saturday night, where DJ Kennington charged around him with just a few turns to go, en route to the win.
Immediately after the race, Thomson was upset to see the victory slip away so close to the checkered flag. But it didn’t take long for the veteran racer to refocus on the big picture. “We have eight races down and four to go. We’d like to get another win in the column, and that’s why I’m a little frustrated with what happened [at Mosport], especially when you lead so many laps and not to seal the deal. But it was another good points night for us and we’ll head to Cayuga right where we want to be.”
And while Don Thomson is pleased with his position in the overall points, DJ Kennington is looking for his fourth CASCAR Super Series feature event win in a row, at Cayuga. “Our good run started at Toronto [where he started on the pole] and it’s just gone from there. We’ve had a strong car every race all season, but the difference lately is that the little things that were biting us, aren’t biting us anymore. I can’t describe how good this run feels; it’s just amazing.”
The Castrol Dodge driver is starting to display a level of confidence that indicates he believes he can challenge Thomson and points runner-up Peter Gibbons for the title over the final third of the schedule. “We’re concentrating on our Super Series program right now and that has made a big difference. We still have a long way to go to catch Donnie, but we’re climbing and that’s what we have to continue to do.”
Time trials for Sunday’s Super Series race at Cayuga are scheduled to start at 12:30 p.m. The green flag is set to fly at 2:30 p.m. A Thunder Car feature race will follow the Super Series event.
CAYUGA NOTEBOOK: In 2004, the Super Series visited Cayuga 2000 Speedway on two occasions. In the first, on June 6, Peter Gibbons led the final 30 laps of the PowerWater 200 after starting third in the 32-car field. Dave Whitlock won the second Cayuga race last summer (on July 4), after a pit miscue thwarted Gibbons’ chances for a Cayuga sweep. Last year’s top rookie, Pete Shepherd, started on the pole in that race and went on to finish fifth.
CASCAR ON TV: The Sun Valley 300 CASCAR Super Series race from Sun Valley Speedway in BC’s Okanagan Valley will air on SPORTSNET on Saturday, August 13 at 3 p.m. For information regarding initial airings and replays of Super Series races on SPORTSNET, please check your local listings or visit http://www.cascar.ca/schedule/tv_schedule.html.
POWERWATER SPORTSMAN SERIES: The CASCAR PowerWater Sportsman Series returns to action this Saturday night at Barrie Speedway. The event will be the fourth of six on the 2005 PowerWater schedule and the second of the season at Barrie Speedway. The tour last visited the 3/8-mile oval on July 2 when hometown driver and rookie competitor Ron Lethbridge led all 100 laps of the PowerWater 100 en route to his first series win.
SCHEDULES:
CASCAR SUPER SERIES: Cayuga 2000 Speedway 200
Nelles Corners (Hamilton), Ontario // Event #9 of 12
SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2005
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. CASCAR Super Series Practice Session
12:30 p.m. CASCAR Time Trials
2:20 p.m. CASCAR Driver Introductions
2:30 p.m. START: Cayuga 2000 Speedway 200
POWERWATER SERIES: PowerWater Series 100, presented by CARQUEST
Barrie, Ontario // Event # 4 of 6
SATURDAY, AUGUST 13, 2005
4:00 p.m. CASCAR Super Series Practice Session #1
5:00 p.m. CASCAR Super Series Practice Session #2
7:45 p.m. CASCAR Time Trials
9:45 p.m. Super Series Driver Autograph Session
10:10 p.m. START: POWER WATER SERIES 100, presented by CARQUEST
SUPER SERIES POINT STANDINGS: Top 15 after 8 events. As of August 9, 2005: 1. #4 Don Thomson Jr. (1582 pts.); 2. #1 Peter Gibbons (1493); 3. #17 DJ Kennington (1474); 4. #9 Mark Dilley (1443); 5. 39 Dave Whitlock (1412); 6. #02 Kerry Micks (1405); 7. #19 Brad Graham (1401); 8. #84 J.R. Fitzpatrick (1390); 9. #60 Ron Beauchamp Jr. (1382); 10. #88 Dave Jacombs (1296); 11. #22 Scott Steckly (1260); 12. #10 Doug Brown (1238); 13. #37 Tara MacLeod ® (1216); 14. #11 Ron VanEs (1206); 15. #3 Stu Robinson Jr. (1168).
WESTERN SERIES POINT STANDINGS: Top 15 after 6 events. As of August 9, 2005: 1. #35 Kevin Dowler (1309 pts.); 2. #30 Derek Polack (1238); 3. #79 Wade Lee (1212); 4. #36 Jim White (1159); 5. #6 Todd Nichol (1119); 6. #21 Jason White ® (1116); 7. #26 Shaun Polack (1092); 8. #69 Randy Kozek ® (924); 9. #14 James Van Domselaar (876); 10. #87 James Ward (828); 11. #31 Sean Maltman (676); 12. #68 Shane Charlton (562); 13. #15 Mike Browne (542); 14. #96 Norman Hunger ® (512); 15. #27 Mark Derks (288)
POWERWATER SPORTSMAN SERIES POINT STANDINGS: Top 15 after 3 events. As of August 9, 2005: 1. #77 Dion Verhoeven (250); 2. #95 R Ron Lethbridge (244); 3. #28 Steve Robblee (242); 4. #00 Steve Munro (239); 5. #32 Mike Alguire (237); 6. #6 Brad Graham (232); 7. #97 R Michael Gold (224); 8. #80 Mike Hryniuk (218); 9. #38 Ken Grubb (211); 10. #11 R Cole Weber (200); 11. #66 R Josh Wood (199); 12. #91 Dean Fantin (192); 13. #81 Shawn McGlynn (184); 14. #39 Kevin D'Amore (184); 15. #45 Bob Merrifield (183)
® Denotes Rookie of the Year Competitor.
Contact CASCAR at (519) 641-1214 or visit www.cascar.ca
Prepared by Inside Track Communications. // Contact: Greg MacPherson (416) 561-2320 (cell).
Comments regarding additions to – or deletions from – this mailing list should be sent to: greg@insidetracknews.com
LONDON, ON – The CASCAR Super Series makes its lone appearance of the season at Cayuga 2000 Speedway on Sunday afternoon for a 200-lap race at the 5/8-mile oval. Because of its size and speed, Cayuga has long been a highly anticipated destination for CASCAR’s racers and fans.
Heading to Cayuga, Don Thomson Jr. leads the Super Series points chase as he continues his quest for a fifth-consecutive CASCAR National championship. The Home Hardware Chevy driver is coming off a runner-up finish in the Mosport Speedway 200 last Saturday night, where DJ Kennington charged around him with just a few turns to go, en route to the win.
Immediately after the race, Thomson was upset to see the victory slip away so close to the checkered flag. But it didn’t take long for the veteran racer to refocus on the big picture. “We have eight races down and four to go. We’d like to get another win in the column, and that’s why I’m a little frustrated with what happened [at Mosport], especially when you lead so many laps and not to seal the deal. But it was another good points night for us and we’ll head to Cayuga right where we want to be.”
And while Don Thomson is pleased with his position in the overall points, DJ Kennington is looking for his fourth CASCAR Super Series feature event win in a row, at Cayuga. “Our good run started at Toronto [where he started on the pole] and it’s just gone from there. We’ve had a strong car every race all season, but the difference lately is that the little things that were biting us, aren’t biting us anymore. I can’t describe how good this run feels; it’s just amazing.”
The Castrol Dodge driver is starting to display a level of confidence that indicates he believes he can challenge Thomson and points runner-up Peter Gibbons for the title over the final third of the schedule. “We’re concentrating on our Super Series program right now and that has made a big difference. We still have a long way to go to catch Donnie, but we’re climbing and that’s what we have to continue to do.”
Time trials for Sunday’s Super Series race at Cayuga are scheduled to start at 12:30 p.m. The green flag is set to fly at 2:30 p.m. A Thunder Car feature race will follow the Super Series event.
CAYUGA NOTEBOOK: In 2004, the Super Series visited Cayuga 2000 Speedway on two occasions. In the first, on June 6, Peter Gibbons led the final 30 laps of the PowerWater 200 after starting third in the 32-car field. Dave Whitlock won the second Cayuga race last summer (on July 4), after a pit miscue thwarted Gibbons’ chances for a Cayuga sweep. Last year’s top rookie, Pete Shepherd, started on the pole in that race and went on to finish fifth.
CASCAR ON TV: The Sun Valley 300 CASCAR Super Series race from Sun Valley Speedway in BC’s Okanagan Valley will air on SPORTSNET on Saturday, August 13 at 3 p.m. For information regarding initial airings and replays of Super Series races on SPORTSNET, please check your local listings or visit http://www.cascar.ca/schedule/tv_schedule.html.
POWERWATER SPORTSMAN SERIES: The CASCAR PowerWater Sportsman Series returns to action this Saturday night at Barrie Speedway. The event will be the fourth of six on the 2005 PowerWater schedule and the second of the season at Barrie Speedway. The tour last visited the 3/8-mile oval on July 2 when hometown driver and rookie competitor Ron Lethbridge led all 100 laps of the PowerWater 100 en route to his first series win.
SCHEDULES:
CASCAR SUPER SERIES: Cayuga 2000 Speedway 200
Nelles Corners (Hamilton), Ontario // Event #9 of 12
SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2005
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. CASCAR Super Series Practice Session
12:30 p.m. CASCAR Time Trials
2:20 p.m. CASCAR Driver Introductions
2:30 p.m. START: Cayuga 2000 Speedway 200
POWERWATER SERIES: PowerWater Series 100, presented by CARQUEST
Barrie, Ontario // Event # 4 of 6
SATURDAY, AUGUST 13, 2005
4:00 p.m. CASCAR Super Series Practice Session #1
5:00 p.m. CASCAR Super Series Practice Session #2
7:45 p.m. CASCAR Time Trials
9:45 p.m. Super Series Driver Autograph Session
10:10 p.m. START: POWER WATER SERIES 100, presented by CARQUEST
SUPER SERIES POINT STANDINGS: Top 15 after 8 events. As of August 9, 2005: 1. #4 Don Thomson Jr. (1582 pts.); 2. #1 Peter Gibbons (1493); 3. #17 DJ Kennington (1474); 4. #9 Mark Dilley (1443); 5. 39 Dave Whitlock (1412); 6. #02 Kerry Micks (1405); 7. #19 Brad Graham (1401); 8. #84 J.R. Fitzpatrick (1390); 9. #60 Ron Beauchamp Jr. (1382); 10. #88 Dave Jacombs (1296); 11. #22 Scott Steckly (1260); 12. #10 Doug Brown (1238); 13. #37 Tara MacLeod ® (1216); 14. #11 Ron VanEs (1206); 15. #3 Stu Robinson Jr. (1168).
WESTERN SERIES POINT STANDINGS: Top 15 after 6 events. As of August 9, 2005: 1. #35 Kevin Dowler (1309 pts.); 2. #30 Derek Polack (1238); 3. #79 Wade Lee (1212); 4. #36 Jim White (1159); 5. #6 Todd Nichol (1119); 6. #21 Jason White ® (1116); 7. #26 Shaun Polack (1092); 8. #69 Randy Kozek ® (924); 9. #14 James Van Domselaar (876); 10. #87 James Ward (828); 11. #31 Sean Maltman (676); 12. #68 Shane Charlton (562); 13. #15 Mike Browne (542); 14. #96 Norman Hunger ® (512); 15. #27 Mark Derks (288)
POWERWATER SPORTSMAN SERIES POINT STANDINGS: Top 15 after 3 events. As of August 9, 2005: 1. #77 Dion Verhoeven (250); 2. #95 R Ron Lethbridge (244); 3. #28 Steve Robblee (242); 4. #00 Steve Munro (239); 5. #32 Mike Alguire (237); 6. #6 Brad Graham (232); 7. #97 R Michael Gold (224); 8. #80 Mike Hryniuk (218); 9. #38 Ken Grubb (211); 10. #11 R Cole Weber (200); 11. #66 R Josh Wood (199); 12. #91 Dean Fantin (192); 13. #81 Shawn McGlynn (184); 14. #39 Kevin D'Amore (184); 15. #45 Bob Merrifield (183)
® Denotes Rookie of the Year Competitor.
Contact CASCAR at (519) 641-1214 or visit www.cascar.ca
Prepared by Inside Track Communications. // Contact: Greg MacPherson (416) 561-2320 (cell).
Comments regarding additions to – or deletions from – this mailing list should be sent to: greg@insidetracknews.com
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Engine Woes Sideline Ryan Litt
By Tommy Goudge
August 10, 2005 - It was an up and down night for Lyons, Ontario racer Ryan Litt on Friday night at the Dixie Motor Speedway near Birch Run, Michigan. The day began at the shop where the team thrashed to finish getting the car back together after the wreck two weeks ago at Baer Field Speedway. Once at the track for the night’s event, sanctioned by the AVSS, the new set of wings from Velocity Wings worked so well that all the team’s previous setup notes proved to be obsolete. The #07 BRR Media BS&B Radiator Beast/Claxton Sprint Car was not handling very well, which resulted in a time trial lap of only 22nd fastest.
The car was somewhat improved in the heat race, but midway through the race, some of the supports on the big top wing came loose, causing it to flip upwards and ruin the handling of the car. After rectifying that situation, it was on to the B Main in which Ryan continued to fight the ill-handling car and missed transferring to the A Main by one position.
At this point it appeared the team’s luck had changed for the better as Mike Astrauskas scratched from the feature event, meaning Ryan could tag on to the back of the field as the first alternate. The team quickly made changes to the car’s suspension and chassis setup and sent the #07 back out onto the high banked 4/10’s mile oval. Starting in the 21st and dead last position on the grid, the car responded well to the changes and Ryan quickly made his way up to the 13th position by the seventh lap and looked to be turning his night around. Unfortunately it was not to be as the 18 year old noticed oil coming from the engine compartment and quickly pulled off the track before further damage was done, and was credited with a 20th place finish.
Ryan and the team pulled the engine out after the race and have sent it away to be freshened in the hopes of being ready in time for the 46th annual Joe James/Pat O’Connor Classic USAC National Sprint Car event at the Salem Speedway in southern Indiana this Saturday night. The high banked 0.555 mile oval has played host to some of the biggest names in all of auto racing over the years, and Ryan and the team are very excited about competing at the legendary speedway. Joining the sprint cars on the card will be the USAC National Midgets. Warm-ups will begin at 4:30 on Saturday night, August 13. Following that event will most likely be a weekend off before heading to the Kawartha Speedway near Peterborough, Ontario on August 26 for a home race of sorts. For more information, schedules, news and photos, please visit www.RyanLitt.com.
August 10, 2005 - It was an up and down night for Lyons, Ontario racer Ryan Litt on Friday night at the Dixie Motor Speedway near Birch Run, Michigan. The day began at the shop where the team thrashed to finish getting the car back together after the wreck two weeks ago at Baer Field Speedway. Once at the track for the night’s event, sanctioned by the AVSS, the new set of wings from Velocity Wings worked so well that all the team’s previous setup notes proved to be obsolete. The #07 BRR Media BS&B Radiator Beast/Claxton Sprint Car was not handling very well, which resulted in a time trial lap of only 22nd fastest.
The car was somewhat improved in the heat race, but midway through the race, some of the supports on the big top wing came loose, causing it to flip upwards and ruin the handling of the car. After rectifying that situation, it was on to the B Main in which Ryan continued to fight the ill-handling car and missed transferring to the A Main by one position.
At this point it appeared the team’s luck had changed for the better as Mike Astrauskas scratched from the feature event, meaning Ryan could tag on to the back of the field as the first alternate. The team quickly made changes to the car’s suspension and chassis setup and sent the #07 back out onto the high banked 4/10’s mile oval. Starting in the 21st and dead last position on the grid, the car responded well to the changes and Ryan quickly made his way up to the 13th position by the seventh lap and looked to be turning his night around. Unfortunately it was not to be as the 18 year old noticed oil coming from the engine compartment and quickly pulled off the track before further damage was done, and was credited with a 20th place finish.
Ryan and the team pulled the engine out after the race and have sent it away to be freshened in the hopes of being ready in time for the 46th annual Joe James/Pat O’Connor Classic USAC National Sprint Car event at the Salem Speedway in southern Indiana this Saturday night. The high banked 0.555 mile oval has played host to some of the biggest names in all of auto racing over the years, and Ryan and the team are very excited about competing at the legendary speedway. Joining the sprint cars on the card will be the USAC National Midgets. Warm-ups will begin at 4:30 on Saturday night, August 13. Following that event will most likely be a weekend off before heading to the Kawartha Speedway near Peterborough, Ontario on August 26 for a home race of sorts. For more information, schedules, news and photos, please visit www.RyanLitt.com.
TONIGHT: MARK DILLEY AND KASEY KAHNE TO COMPARE NUMBER 9 DODGE CHARGERS AT NASCAR SPEEDPARK
TORONTO, ON – Kasey Kahne, driver of the # 9 Dodge Charger in NASCAR Nextel Cup, and Mark Dilley, driver of the # 9 Dodge Charger in the CASCAR Super Series, will be comparing notes on their respective Dodge Charger race cars at NASCAR SpeedPark in Vaughan Mills tonight (Thursday August 11th).
NASCAR SpeedPark has invited Kahne to their exciting facility to sign autographs and partake in some races against fans on one of the facilities many go kart tracks. Kahne will be at the facility from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm and will be joined by Dilley at the same time. Fans must have a wristband to get an autograph. They are available at NASCAR SpeedPark on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 10:00 am on Thursday August 11th.
Dilley will have his # 9 Dodge Charger on display at the event, and Dilley and Kahne are slated to go at it on the track as well; in slightly less powerful Dodge Charger replica go karts. The appearance of the NASCAR Nextel Cup and CASCAR Super Series stars together is reflective of the current stock car racing landscape in Canada, where NASCAR and CASCAR entered into a marketing and management partnership late in 2004.
Dilley currently sits fourth in the CASCAR Super Series Championship and is coming off a fourth place finish at Mosport Speedway last weekend, while Kahne currently sits 21st in the NASCAR Nextel Cup standings and is coming off a second place finish at the 400 at The Brickyard this past Sunday.
A great time is in store for NASCAR and CASCAR fans alike, so come on by NASCAR SpeedPark in Vaughan Mills this Thursday August 11th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Please visit www.NASCARSpeedPark.com for Wristband Policy or call 905-669-7370 for more information.
NASCAR SpeedPark has invited Kahne to their exciting facility to sign autographs and partake in some races against fans on one of the facilities many go kart tracks. Kahne will be at the facility from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm and will be joined by Dilley at the same time. Fans must have a wristband to get an autograph. They are available at NASCAR SpeedPark on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 10:00 am on Thursday August 11th.
Dilley will have his # 9 Dodge Charger on display at the event, and Dilley and Kahne are slated to go at it on the track as well; in slightly less powerful Dodge Charger replica go karts. The appearance of the NASCAR Nextel Cup and CASCAR Super Series stars together is reflective of the current stock car racing landscape in Canada, where NASCAR and CASCAR entered into a marketing and management partnership late in 2004.
Dilley currently sits fourth in the CASCAR Super Series Championship and is coming off a fourth place finish at Mosport Speedway last weekend, while Kahne currently sits 21st in the NASCAR Nextel Cup standings and is coming off a second place finish at the 400 at The Brickyard this past Sunday.
A great time is in store for NASCAR and CASCAR fans alike, so come on by NASCAR SpeedPark in Vaughan Mills this Thursday August 11th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Please visit www.NASCARSpeedPark.com for Wristband Policy or call 905-669-7370 for more information.
DriveLine Radio’s Super Human Show and Shine is on!
Got a gorgeous car, truck or motorcycle that begs to be shown off? Then join Johnny B and Rob Forte for DriveLine Radio’s First Annual Super Human Show and Shine! on Sunday September 11th from 11 am to 4pm at The Legendary Salty Dawg Saloon in Kleinburg, Ontario.
We’re asking for nothing to display your beautiful ride. Just drop us a line with your name, make and model of vehicle and we’ll save you a spot in the Dawg’s parking lot. We will be selling commemorative t-shirts for $20 each with proceeds going to juvenile diabetes research. So your support would be greatly appreciated.
Added bonuses include an outdoor BBQ, music, vintage autos, track bikes and a special salute to our armed forces, firefighters and police.
So hurry, space is limited! For more info or to grab a spot for your ride contact John Bordignon at johnny-b@sympatico.ca or 1-888-844-2665 x58.
DriveLine Radio’s First Annual Super Human Show and Shine for Juvenile Diabetes. Sunday September 11, 2005 from 11am to 4pm. The Legendary Salty Dawg Saloon - 9732 Highway 27 (just south of Major Mackenzie Drive) Kleinburg, Ontario - 905-893-2158.
Brought to you by The Cool Beer Brewing Company, Fat Cock Jeans Limited, NewsTalk 610 CKTB and The Legendary Salty Dawg Saloon.
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Jim Lapcevich taking the Tim Hortons - EMCEA Transport Fastline Motorsports Chevrolet Monte Carlo Team to Cayuga
By Bruce F. Mehlenbacher, Director of Public RelationsAugust 10, 2005, Hamilton, ON – Jim Lapcevich, driver of the number 25 Tim Hortons - EMCEA Transport Fastline Motorsports Chevrolet Monte Carlo, always looks forward to competing at Cayuga Speedway.
“Cayuga Speedway is home for Team Fastline, we have raced there for years and we have many sponsors, family and friends there,” said Lapcevich. “Fastline has a long history of racing at Cayuga and it is going to be really important to do well there.”
Since 1966, Cayuga Speedway has been synonymous with the best in racing, and is regarded by fans, racers and sponsors alike as Canada’s premier racing facility. Cayuga Speedway, Canada’s “Crown Jewel”, has always been at the forefront of Canadian championship stock car racing. Originally a dirt track, the 5/8ths-mile oval facility was paved in 1968.
Over the years, Cayuga Speedway’s “Special Event” presentations, there have been a host of internationally famous competitors to take on the locals, including Bobby Allison, Davey Allison, Donnie Allison, Buddy Baker, Dale Earnhardt, Bill Elliott, Alan Kulwicki, Sterling Marlin, Mark Martin, Tim Richmond, Rusty Wallace and Darrell Waltrip. Some of the “locals'' learned well, honing their driving talents and becoming famous in their own right. Names like Hall-of-Famers Junior Hanley, Earl Ross, and Don Biederman refined their talents at the Cayuga oval with some fine racing, and then headed south of the border.
The CASCAR Super Series race will take place Sunday, August 14 on the 5/8th-mile oval at Cayuga Speedway, located at Nelles Corners, Ontario.
For information about Cayuga Speedway tickets and camping, call the Cayuga Speedway Hotline at 1.905.768.1177 (Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET) or visit online at http://www.cayuga2000speedway.com/
Jim Lapcevich will be a guest on CH Morning Live in Hamilton on Friday, August 12th at 8:40 a.m.
CASCAR ON TV: The Sun Valley Motor Speedway 300 airs on Saturday, August 13th at 3:00 p.m. EST on SPORTSNET.
For information regarding initial airings and replays of CASCAR Super Series races on SPORTSNET, please check your local listings or visit http://www.cascar.com/schedule/tv_schedule.html.
Micks and PowerWater Ford heading to Cayuga: "Hoping for better showing than recent Mosport DNF."
Bruce F. Mehlenbacher, Director of Public RelationsAugust 9, 2005, Mt. Albert, ON - Driving the PowerWater Micks Motorsports 2005 Ford Taurus, Kerry Micks finished a disappointing 19th in the CASCAR Super Series in Bowmanville, Ontario on Saturday in the Mosport Speedway 200.
“We had a motor go south on us about 40 laps into the race Saturday night. It’s really unfortunate, but there are some things that we just can’t control,” explained Micks. “There will be a brand new engine in the car for this weekend and we will test it at Mosport this week, just to be sure everything is OK.”
DJ Kennington won the Mosport Speedway 200 event followed by Don Thomson Jr. and Ron Beauchamp Jr.
“We always run well at Cayuga, the PowerWater Ford finished second there twice last year and we knocked off two thirds the year before that,” added Micks. “If all things remain equal and we have any luck at all we should be in great shape at Cayuga.”
Micks, with three wins this season in the PowerWater Micks Motorsports Ford, sits in sixth position in the 2005 CASCAR Super Series Points Championship.
The CASCAR Super Series race will take place Sunday, August 14 at Cayuga Speedway located in Nelles Corners, Ontario on the 5/8th-mile oval.
For more information about Cayuga Speedway tickets and camping, call the Cayuga Speedway Hotline at 1.905.768.1177 (Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET) or visit http://www.cayuga2000speedway.com/
CASCAR ON TV: The Sun Valley Motor Speedway 300 airs on Saturday, August 13th at 3:00 p.m. EST on SPORTSNET.
For information regarding initial airings and replays of CASCAR Super Series races on SPORTSNET, please check your local listings or visit http://www.cascar.com/schedule/tv_schedule.html
STELLAR CAST ASSEMBLED FOR ATLANTIC CAT 250
By Joan Roué, Scotia SpeedworldHALIFAX, NS (2005 August 9) - A stellar cast of champions and race winners is expected to compete this Saturday at Scotia Speedworld in the sixth annual edition of The Atlantic CAT 250. All tolled there are 10 series championships represented among five drivers and one veteran racer that has earned the title of "the greatest driver in the 56-year history of Oxford Plains Speedway" in Maine: Mike Rowe.
Rowe (Turner, Maine) put the exclamation point on the title July 31 with his third victory in the prestigious, and often elusive, Oxford 250, also the 54-year-olds 150th trip to victory lane at the famed facility. The momentum gained from the Oxford win combined with Rowe being the most recent winner of a Pro All Stars Series (PASS) event at Scotia Speedworld (June 25) would place him as a favourite contender for this Saturday's race at Scotia Speedworld.
But there are numerous others that will have something to say about who takes the checkered flag and the $6,000 (U.S.) winners share of the $40,000 purse for The Atlantic CAT 250.
Former pro stock series champions from both sides of the international border Johnny Clark (Hallowell, Maine), John Flemming (Halifax, NS), Dave Gorveatt (Charlottetown, PEI), Ben Rowe (Turner, Maine) and Wayne Smith (Halifax, NS) all have scored wins at Scotia Speedworld and are hungry for another - especially considering the newly added honour of having their name engraved on the Scott Fraser Memorial Cup.
Top racers from PASS and the top touring series in the Maritimes, the CARQUEST Pro Stock Tour, as well as a smattering of independent racers will be represented at the event. The expected entry list follows...
Car # Driver Hometown SERIES-PTS
0 Shawn Turple Enfield, NS PST-3rd place
6 George Koszkulics New Glasgow, NS n/a
8 Cassius Clark Farmington, ME PASS-4th
9 Stephen Brown Williamswood, NS PST-18th
11 Marty Prevost Fall River, NS n/a
15 Scott Alexander Dartmouth, NS n/a
17 Travis Benjamin Morrill, ME PASS-7th
23 Lonnie Sommerville Saint John, NB n/a
24 Mike Rowe Turner, ME PASS-3rd
28 Matt Eaton Little Deer Isle, ME PASS-11th
44 Wayne Smith Halifax, NS PST-2nd
47 Corey Williams Boothbay, ME PASS-8th
53 Alan Wilson Hebron, ME PASS-5th
54 Johnny Clark Hallowell, ME PASS-2nd
67 Gordie Ryan Wellington, NS PST-7th
72 Stacey Clements Five Island Lake, NS PST-11th
77 Dave Gorveatt Charlottetown, PEI n/a
83 Donnie Whitten Biddeford, ME PASS-6th
84 Scott Mulkern Falmouth, ME PASS-13th
88 Chris Hughes N. Winsloe, PEI PST-21st
89 Donald Chisholm Antigonish, NS n/a
97 John Flemming Halifax, NS n/a
99 Phillip Barkhouse, Jr. Sackville, NS PST-8th
0 Ben Rowe Turner, ME PASS-1st
2 Mike MacKenzie Dartmouth, NS PST-14th
8 Donnie Lashua Canaan, NH PASS-9th
Expected Entry List Subject To Change Without Notice
The Atlantic CAT 250 is round 12 of 18 en route to the 2005 PASS championship. Two-time PASS champ Ben Rowe leads the pack after 11 events by just two points over Johnny Clark (2160 vs 2158). Mike Rowe follows in third a mere 12 markers behind Clark. With as many as 220 points awarded the winner of each event, and only two points separating each finishing position, The Atlantic CAT 250 could be pivotal in deciding the 05 series champ. The complete PASS point standings and more information about PASS can be found online at http://www.proallstarsseries.com/.
Former Atlantic CAT 250 winners include John Flemming (2000), Louie Mechalides (2001), Ben Rowe (2002 and 2003), and Johnny Clark (2004).
The Atlantic CAT 250 is the culmination of a busy Speedweekend 2005 at Scotia Speedworld. Activities kick off Friday at 5 p.m. with the Lockhart Big Rig Show'N'Shine in the main parking lot. All truckers are welcome to participate and those that show their rigs will receive complementary tickets to Friday nights show at Scotia Speedworld, compliments of Lockhart Truck Center.
Feed Nova Scotia will also be on hand and those that make a cash or non-perishable donation will get a chance to be the honourary Grand Marshall for The Lockhart Truck Center 100, giving the "Start Your Engines" command and waving the green flag.
Racing action begins Friday at 7 and will feature two rounds of qualifying for The Atlantic CAT 250 (time trials and heat races), championship points racing for Budweiser Weekly Racing Miller Tire BFGoodrich Thunder and Lightning Cars. The C&R Auto Supply Sportsman division will see qualifying heat races set the starting grid for The Lockhart Truck Center 100 - also round 4 of 5 in the Sportsman Super Series.
For the first time ever, sportsman racers will receive a $10 bonus per sponsored lap led in The Lockhart Truck Center 100. A limited number of laps remain available to be sponsored. Call 444-0703 to reserve your lap today.
On Saturday a special Pepsi Pre-Race Show will kick things off at 5 p.m. featuring the music of popular local entertainer Paul Eisan and Tribute, an autograph session and the Atlantic CAT Equipment Parade.
Racing action begins at 6 p.m. The format includes championship points racing in two Budweiser Weekly Racing divisions, the RV Contacts Legends and the Nova Automotive Hobby Stock. Then the sixth edition of what has become the most prestigious stcok car race in the Maritimes: The Atlantic CAT 250.
Once the racing stops, the party starts with the new for 2005 Atlantic CAT 250 Tailgate Party featuring Paul Eisan and Tribute.
A detailed Speedweekend 2005 event format can be found online at http://www.scotiaspeedworld.ca/.
Special two-day grandstand admission tickets are just $35 for adults and $6 for youth aged 8 to 15. Friday only tickets are $15 for adults and $2 for youth aged 8 to 15. Saturday only tickets are $30 for adults and $5 for youth (8 to 15). Children 7 and under are admitted free both nights. All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Pit admission is $45 for a two-day ticket, $20 for Friday only and $35 for Saturday only. Pit admission is restricted to those 16 and older. Pit tickets are not available in advance.
HST is included in all admission prices.
The grandstand gates open at 5 p.m. on Friday and 3 p.m. on Saturday.
Vinland Auto Slalom, Aug. 13, 14/Summer party
Please note the change of date for the Auto Slalom - Aug. 13 and 14 at Bell Island. That's Saturday and Sunday. Supplemental regulations are now available at www.vinland.ca.
(That's what I get for leaving the calendar on July - but it was hard to cover that little Ferrari!)
Vinland Motorsport Club is also hosting a club BBQ Aug. 27. Please send a reply e-mail for more information - we're trying to gauge possible attendance, so let us know if you're bringing your navigator, pit crew - or, you know, a spouse.
For more information, visit www.vinland.ca.
Ken Simmons
Communications director
Vinland Motorsport Club
www.vinland.ca
(That's what I get for leaving the calendar on July - but it was hard to cover that little Ferrari!)
Vinland Motorsport Club is also hosting a club BBQ Aug. 27. Please send a reply e-mail for more information - we're trying to gauge possible attendance, so let us know if you're bringing your navigator, pit crew - or, you know, a spouse.
For more information, visit www.vinland.ca.
Ken Simmons
Communications director
Vinland Motorsport Club
www.vinland.ca
Whitlock fast but bent by Mosport oval results: “This could be my most frustrating season ever”
Courtesy Don BrooksBowmanville, ON, August 06 2005 - After qualifying third fastest for the Mosport 200 at this fast, half-mile oval, Dave Whitlock did what he does so well by quickly moving his #39 Avenue Motor Works / NMT Dodge Charger towards the front of the field.
“We got to 2nd pretty quickly and stayed there for the early part of the race” said Whitlock. Mark (team mate Dilley) who started 4th was also fast and he took over 2nd until the first caution. The two Whitlock Dodges pitted, and Dave elected to take two rear tires, knowing that would take longer and that he would give up some track position. But he felt the advantage would come back to him later in the race.
Restarting in 7th, Whitlock steadily worked his way to the front. Mark had taken the lead for 13 laps but was passed by Don Thomson Jr. on lap 124. With 20 to go, and Thomson too far away to catch, Dave passed Mark for 2nd. But the team mates unfortunately touched, sending the Whitlock Dodge into a spin. Now forced to the rear, he pitted for another fresh rear tire and when the green flew again with 13 to go, he was on a mission, moving from 13th to 8th. But apparently, as the checker flag flew, Doug Brown wanted his 8th spot back bad enough to use contact to make it happen. Tempers flared after Brown’s post-race punt to the #39, and crews seemed to disagree on the facts. Both sides of Whitlock’s Dodge were trashed.
“I know that I gave him a little tap after the flag to tell him I didn’t appreciate the way he took me out for position, but what he did after that was just ridiculous” said 3-time Champion Whitlock. “I don’t know how these guys think that doing things like that will really help out their future. It’s just a shame the way that night turned out. If Mark and I had not caused that caution, we likely could have held off DJ and been both on the podium again. Instead, Mark’s 4th and I’m 9th. ”
On TV: Event #6, the MOPAR 300 from Calgary AB – EAST: WED 10 @2:30PM EST; FRIDAY 12 @12:30PM EST / WEST: MONDAY AUG 8 @1:00PM EST; THURS 11 @1:30PM MT / PACIFIC: THURS 11 @12:30PM PST
Next CASCAR Super Series race: August 14 at Cayuga 2000 Speedway.
CASCAR SUPER SERIES POINTS after 8 events; as of August 06 2005 (UNOFFICIAL TOP 15 1. #4 Don Thomson Jr. (1582 pts.); 2. #1 Peter Gibbons (1493); 3. #17 DJ Kennington (1474); 4. #9 Mark Dilley (1443); 5. 39 Dave Whitlock (1412); 6. #02 Kerry Micks (1405); 7. #19 Brad Graham (1401); 8. #84 J.R. Fitzpatrick (1390); 9. #60 Ron Beauchamp Jr. (1382); 10. #88 Dave Jacombs (1296); 11. #22 Scott Steckly (1260); 12. #10 Doug Brown (1238); 13. #37 Tara MacLeod ® (1216); 14. #11 Ron VanEs (1206); 15. #3 Stu Robinson Jr. (1168). ® Denotes Rookie of the Year.
For more information about the schedule and CASCAR see www.cascar.ca
For more about the team and sponsors see www.whitlockmotorsports.com
Contact: Don Brooks, 519-243-2031, don@whitlockmotorsports.com
Dilley finishes fourth at Mosport Speedway: Exide Dodge Charger driver was second for much of the event
Courtesy Don BrooksBARRIE, ON – On Saturday night at Mosport Speedway, CASCAR Super Series veteran Mark Dilley bounced back from a tough western swing with a fourth-place finish in the Mosport Speedway 200.
With the result, the Exide / Dodge / PowerWater / Mobil 1 / Dodge Charger driver climbed from fifth to fourth in the overall point standings with four events remaining on the schedule.
The Barrie, ON racer started on the outside of the second row in the field of 20 at the half-mile Mosport oval, and climbed to second-place on lap 22 when he passed his Whitlock Motorsports teammate Dave Whitlock.
From there, Dilley tailed race-leader and polesitter Don Thomson until the majority of the leaders pitted for right-side tires just past the halfway point of the event. The #9 Exide Dodge Charger won the race off pit road thanks to a superb effort by the #9 team. The excellent stop allowed Dilley to re-emerge in front of Thomson, in third place, behind two drivers who stayed out on the track.
Dilley passed both of those racers by lap 110 and was the leader of the race until Thomson retook the top spot on lap 124. With 15 laps to go in the 200-lap affair, Whitlock was on Dilley’s bumper and appeared to have the quicker car. Dilley’s plan was to allow his long-time teammate to move safely into the runner-up spot, in order to have a shot at the win.
Unfortunately, the pair made contact on the entry to turn 1, resulting in a yellow flag that send Whitlock to the end of the lead lap. Following the race, Dilley regretted the contact, but said he’d done all he could to let Dave safely around him.
“Dave thought he was ‘clear’, and I did everything I could to get out of his way,” said Dilley, after the race. “I just couldn’t go any lower; I was in the grass. I feel bad about what happened.
“Dave and I have been great teammates for years and we both know that neither one of us would do anything to take the other one out. But it was just one of those deals. Dave was on the outside and he was faster than me; there’s no doubt about it. We always let each other go if the other one has a better car in a given situation. Dave let me go earlier in the race and I was trying to return the favour when we got together. I wasn’t racing him, that’s for sure.”
Aside from the frustration caused by the contact with Whitlock, Dilley was pleased with his Mosport outing. “It was a good run. We had Exide on the hood for the race and we put on a good show for them and came out of it with a fourth-place finish. On the restarts, we were really fast for the first 10 laps but then we’d fade a bit. Donnie [Thomson] was the opposite, and his car would get going and check out after 10 laps. We had a great pit stop and beat everyone off pit road. The guys at Whitlock Motorsports did a great job of addressing the problems we had with the tires out west, so I’m happy about that, too.”
LOOKING AHEAD:
The next CASCAR Super Series race on the schedule for the Dodge / PowerWater / Mobil 1 / Exide / Dodge Charger team is this weekend’s stop at Cayuga 2000 Speedway, south of Hamilton, ON. Sunday’s (Aug. 14) race at the 5/8-mile speedway is Race #9 on the ’05 schedule.
“I like racing at Cayuga,” said Dilley. “We’ve never had a whole lot of luck there, but it’s fun to race on the big track and we’ll give it our best.”
RACE NOTES:
Dodge driver DJ Kennington passed Don Thomson with two laps to go in Saturday night’s Mosport Speedway 200 to win his third CASCAR Super Series feature race in the row. Thomson held for second place at the checkered flag, ahead of Dodge Charger driver Ron Beauchamp Jr.
For more information about the #9 team and its sponsors: http://www.whitlockmotorsports.com/
For more information about CASCAR, including complete race results, reports, point standings, event schedules and upcoming broadcast times for Super Series races on SPORTSNET, see http://www.cascar.ca/
Help Wanted: Writers for Peterborough and Sauble Speedways
Do you regularly attend events at Peterborough Speedway or Sauble Speedway? Do you enjoy writing? Would you like to be published in Inside Track?
If so, I could use your help. We're looking for volunteer contributors from these speedways, so that we're able to run more than just results and photos.
All we require is about 200 words and an agate result following each race event. If you're a regular reader of Inside Track, you know what we're looking for. By helping out, you would be doing the racers at your favourite track a big favour.
If you're interested in helping out, please send me an e-mail. And if you attend events at other tracks that aren't currently being covered as well as some others - and you're willing and able to help out - I'd like to hear from you, too.
Thank you,
Greg MacPherson, Inside Track.
If so, I could use your help. We're looking for volunteer contributors from these speedways, so that we're able to run more than just results and photos.
All we require is about 200 words and an agate result following each race event. If you're a regular reader of Inside Track, you know what we're looking for. By helping out, you would be doing the racers at your favourite track a big favour.
If you're interested in helping out, please send me an e-mail. And if you attend events at other tracks that aren't currently being covered as well as some others - and you're willing and able to help out - I'd like to hear from you, too.
Thank you,
Greg MacPherson, Inside Track.
AUTOPHILE: News
Autophile CarBooks (located in Toronto on Eglinton Ave. E., just west of Laird Drive) has two new books this week:
Porsche Prototype Era // By Bill Oursler (David Bull Publishing)
and
Baja 1000, history of the famous desert classic (David Bull Publishing)
Plus, coming soon in 1/18th diecast from CMC: Maserati 250F. This item will be in limited supply when they arrive, so reserve yours now.
SOS: Humberstone
SOS Insider,
Humberstone Speedway Announcement: It has been no secret that the Southern Ontario Sprints (SOS) and the Humberstone Speedway have been working together to try and secure an extra race date for the 2005 season. We are disappointed to announce that we have been unable to put something together for an additional 2005 date.
The Good news is that we are looking forward to working closer with Humberstone in 2006 with hopes of building on our successful 2005 appearance. The success enjoyed by the Humberstone team in 2005 has been one of the most pleasant stories of the 2005 racing season. The SOS certainly wants to play a greater part of the speedway’s continued success in 2006.
Pete Turford (President // Southern Ontario Sprints)
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
NASCAR Truck race in Calgary?
Heard this rumour a while back, regarding a possible event run in conjunction with the Stampede. Jayski has this piece, which was included in an article by Mike Mulhern in the Winston Salem Journal....
NASCAR officials are reported to be studying the possibility of scheduling a Truck tour race at a proposed new track in Calgary, Alberta, as part of their new Canadian strategy. And NASCAR executives have stepped up public-relations operations in Toronto, bringing in top Cup drivers such as Jimmie Johnson and Bobby Labonte in recent weeks to promote NASCAR's entry into the Canadian market. One possibility is a Truck race on Toronto's temporary street course.
NASCAR officials are reported to be studying the possibility of scheduling a Truck tour race at a proposed new track in Calgary, Alberta, as part of their new Canadian strategy. And NASCAR executives have stepped up public-relations operations in Toronto, bringing in top Cup drivers such as Jimmie Johnson and Bobby Labonte in recent weeks to promote NASCAR's entry into the Canadian market. One possibility is a Truck race on Toronto's temporary street course.
CASCAR: Sun Valley 300 TV Broadcast times
Hey gang, you could put a big happy smile on Joel Robinson's face by watching the Sun Valley 300 CASCAR Super Series race when it airs starting this Saturday (August 13) at 3:00 p.m. on SPORTSNET.
Subsequest replays will air:
EAST MONDAY AUG 15 @ 1:00PM EST
THURS 18 @ 2:00PM EST
ONTARIO WED 17 @ 3:00PM EST
FRIDAY 19 @ 2:00PM EST
WEST MONDAY 15 @ 1:00PM MST
FRIDAY 19 @ 2:00PM MST
PACIFIC SUNDAY 13 @ 12:00AM PST
THURS 18 @ 1:00PM PST
MIKE HANSEN GAINS GROUND ON LEADERS IN DIVISION II OF NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES
By Jeremy Davidson, NASCAR Public Relations
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Aug. 9, 2005) – Fueled by a win on his home track, Mike Hansen gained ground this week on the leaders in Division II of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series.
The win was Hansen’s third victory of the season in the NASCAR Modified class at Park Jefferson Speedway in Jefferson, S.D. The Alton, Iowa, driver closed to within 110 points of the lead – while remaining third in the point standings for the division.
Chris Spieker, of Massena, Iowa, remains atop the standings for the 15th consecutive week. He has 1,070 points – after finishing fifth on his home track of Adams County Speedway on Saturday and taking home a runner-up finish at I-80 Speedway at Nebraska Raceway Park in Greenwood, Neb., on Sunday.
Joe Kosiski of Omaha, Neb., continues to shadow Spieker in the standings – trailing by 72 markers with 998 points. The former national champion was credited with a 22nd-place finish at I-80 Speedway on Sunday, after dropping out of competition with mechanical trouble.
Jeff Strunk of Bethel, Pa., retained fourth in the standings this week with 872 points, after finishing fifth at Grandview Speedway on Saturday. Moving back into the top five of the division standings is Eric Richardson of Bakersfield, Calif., with 822 points. Richardson won the second of twin 40-lap feature races for the Late Model class at Mesa Marin Raceway on Saturday.
Rounding out the top 10 of the standings are Jonathan Bouvrette of St. Therese, Quebec; Travis Sharpe of North, S.C.; Pete Anderson Jr., of Stockton, Calif.; Stacey Gerken of LaGrange, Ohio; and Robert Barker of Boerne, Texas.
Under NASCAR’s new points format for the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series, a driver’s best 16 finishes are counted towards the divisional title. If a driver races more than 16 times, their poorer finishes are not counted in the NDWS point standings.
This Week’s Division II Leaders (Driver, Home Track, Points)
1. Chris Spieker, Adams County Speedway (Corning, Iowa), 1,070
2. Joe Kosiski, I-80 Speedway (Greenwood, Neb.), 998
3. Mike Hansen, Park Jefferson Speedway (Jefferson, S.D.), 960
4. Jeff Strunk, Grandview Speedway (Bechtelsville, Pa.), 872
5. Eric Richardson, Mesa Marin Raceway (Bakersfield, Calif.), 822
6. Jonathan Bouvrette, Autodrome St. Eustache (St. Eustache, Quebec), 770
7. Travis Sharpe, Concord Motorsport Park (Concord, N.C.), 750
8. Pete Anderson Jr., Stockton 99 Speedway (Stockton, Calif.), 740
9. Stacey Gerken, Lorain Speedway (South Amherst, Ohio), 690
10. Robert Barker, San Antonio Speedway (San Antonio, Tex.), 688
11. Scott Bonney, Lee USA Speedway (Lee, N.H.), 628
12. Jeremy Lapainis, Edmonton International Raceway (Edmonton, Alberta), 600
13. Jamey Lee, Myrtle Beach Speedway (Myrtle Beach, S.C.), 594
14. Bill Hebing Jr., Spencer Speedway (Williamson, N.Y.), 534
15. Scott Lindsay, Delaware Speedway (Delaware, Ontario), 526
16. Dennis Pelphrey, Watsonville Speedway (Watsonville, Calif.), 520
17. Mark Bliss, Holland International Speedway (Holland, N.Y.), 500
18. Alan Pyszora, Shasta Raceway Park (Anderson, Calif.), 488
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Aug. 9, 2005) – Fueled by a win on his home track, Mike Hansen gained ground this week on the leaders in Division II of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series.
The win was Hansen’s third victory of the season in the NASCAR Modified class at Park Jefferson Speedway in Jefferson, S.D. The Alton, Iowa, driver closed to within 110 points of the lead – while remaining third in the point standings for the division.
Chris Spieker, of Massena, Iowa, remains atop the standings for the 15th consecutive week. He has 1,070 points – after finishing fifth on his home track of Adams County Speedway on Saturday and taking home a runner-up finish at I-80 Speedway at Nebraska Raceway Park in Greenwood, Neb., on Sunday.
Joe Kosiski of Omaha, Neb., continues to shadow Spieker in the standings – trailing by 72 markers with 998 points. The former national champion was credited with a 22nd-place finish at I-80 Speedway on Sunday, after dropping out of competition with mechanical trouble.
Jeff Strunk of Bethel, Pa., retained fourth in the standings this week with 872 points, after finishing fifth at Grandview Speedway on Saturday. Moving back into the top five of the division standings is Eric Richardson of Bakersfield, Calif., with 822 points. Richardson won the second of twin 40-lap feature races for the Late Model class at Mesa Marin Raceway on Saturday.
Rounding out the top 10 of the standings are Jonathan Bouvrette of St. Therese, Quebec; Travis Sharpe of North, S.C.; Pete Anderson Jr., of Stockton, Calif.; Stacey Gerken of LaGrange, Ohio; and Robert Barker of Boerne, Texas.
Under NASCAR’s new points format for the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series, a driver’s best 16 finishes are counted towards the divisional title. If a driver races more than 16 times, their poorer finishes are not counted in the NDWS point standings.
This Week’s Division II Leaders (Driver, Home Track, Points)
1. Chris Spieker, Adams County Speedway (Corning, Iowa), 1,070
2. Joe Kosiski, I-80 Speedway (Greenwood, Neb.), 998
3. Mike Hansen, Park Jefferson Speedway (Jefferson, S.D.), 960
4. Jeff Strunk, Grandview Speedway (Bechtelsville, Pa.), 872
5. Eric Richardson, Mesa Marin Raceway (Bakersfield, Calif.), 822
6. Jonathan Bouvrette, Autodrome St. Eustache (St. Eustache, Quebec), 770
7. Travis Sharpe, Concord Motorsport Park (Concord, N.C.), 750
8. Pete Anderson Jr., Stockton 99 Speedway (Stockton, Calif.), 740
9. Stacey Gerken, Lorain Speedway (South Amherst, Ohio), 690
10. Robert Barker, San Antonio Speedway (San Antonio, Tex.), 688
11. Scott Bonney, Lee USA Speedway (Lee, N.H.), 628
12. Jeremy Lapainis, Edmonton International Raceway (Edmonton, Alberta), 600
13. Jamey Lee, Myrtle Beach Speedway (Myrtle Beach, S.C.), 594
14. Bill Hebing Jr., Spencer Speedway (Williamson, N.Y.), 534
15. Scott Lindsay, Delaware Speedway (Delaware, Ontario), 526
16. Dennis Pelphrey, Watsonville Speedway (Watsonville, Calif.), 520
17. Mark Bliss, Holland International Speedway (Holland, N.Y.), 500
18. Alan Pyszora, Shasta Raceway Park (Anderson, Calif.), 488
SOSCAAR Outlaw Late Model series : Sun setting on Fletcher’s title hopes?
By Scott Fletcher
Milton, On. - Team JNE Consulting headed into Sunset Speedway Saturday night hoping to start to claw back some points they lost at Sauble Speedway two weeks ago. Unfortunately, the team is left trailing the lead by 137 after posting a third place finish.
How John got there though may be the real story of the night, after winning one qualifying race and placing second in the other the #61 JNE consulting car started forth on the grid behind the eventual second place finisher #70. At the drop of the green flag John settled into second running right on, the bumper of the leader until a lap eleven restart when Rob Clarke was able to get by both John and the leader. John would run in third for the next six laps when the next caution flew and this is where the excitement begins, “I’m coming in” came over the radio to the crew.
This was curious to the crew and fans as it appeared to everyone that the #61 car had no problems. After pitting for right side tires and heading back onto the track restarting at the back of the field in sixteenth position John carved his way back into the top ten in a mere few laps. The capacity crew at Sunset Speedway where witnessing a driving clinic from the JNE Consulting car and with seven laps to go was back to the rear bumper of the second place finisher but still did not have enough to get by.
Congratulations to Rob Clarke and his crew, on there second win of the year as they did have the best car this night. The jammed packed crowd saw a very entertaining event and a close finish. As John walked around his mark free racer during podium presentations, he had this to say, “We did not come hear to drive around in third, we pitted to adjust the car and came back to race our way to third with a car that could win”.
The team’s next action off the track comes Wednesday August 10 at Simcoe Shores Golf and Country Club in support of the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation – London Chapter. Then they of to the second race of the year at Mosport Speedway August 20th, get there early as witnessed at most events this year for the OSCAAR, fans are coming in record numbers.
Milton, On. - Team JNE Consulting headed into Sunset Speedway Saturday night hoping to start to claw back some points they lost at Sauble Speedway two weeks ago. Unfortunately, the team is left trailing the lead by 137 after posting a third place finish.
How John got there though may be the real story of the night, after winning one qualifying race and placing second in the other the #61 JNE consulting car started forth on the grid behind the eventual second place finisher #70. At the drop of the green flag John settled into second running right on, the bumper of the leader until a lap eleven restart when Rob Clarke was able to get by both John and the leader. John would run in third for the next six laps when the next caution flew and this is where the excitement begins, “I’m coming in” came over the radio to the crew.
This was curious to the crew and fans as it appeared to everyone that the #61 car had no problems. After pitting for right side tires and heading back onto the track restarting at the back of the field in sixteenth position John carved his way back into the top ten in a mere few laps. The capacity crew at Sunset Speedway where witnessing a driving clinic from the JNE Consulting car and with seven laps to go was back to the rear bumper of the second place finisher but still did not have enough to get by.
Congratulations to Rob Clarke and his crew, on there second win of the year as they did have the best car this night. The jammed packed crowd saw a very entertaining event and a close finish. As John walked around his mark free racer during podium presentations, he had this to say, “We did not come hear to drive around in third, we pitted to adjust the car and came back to race our way to third with a car that could win”.
The team’s next action off the track comes Wednesday August 10 at Simcoe Shores Golf and Country Club in support of the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation – London Chapter. Then they of to the second race of the year at Mosport Speedway August 20th, get there early as witnessed at most events this year for the OSCAAR, fans are coming in record numbers.
SOS DRIVERS TAKE ON KNOXVILLE
Courtesy SOS Online
The top two drivers in the 2005 10th Anniversary Season Tour standings spent this past week at the Knoxville Speedway for the Knoxville 360 Nationals and the Brodix Tournament of Champions. Both Adam West and Glenn Styres made the trip to Iowa to compete in the annual 360 events. Congratulations to both on a successful trip and thanks for doing us all proud!
For a complete list of their results visit http://www.southernontariosprints.com
The top two drivers in the 2005 10th Anniversary Season Tour standings spent this past week at the Knoxville Speedway for the Knoxville 360 Nationals and the Brodix Tournament of Champions. Both Adam West and Glenn Styres made the trip to Iowa to compete in the annual 360 events. Congratulations to both on a successful trip and thanks for doing us all proud!
For a complete list of their results visit http://www.southernontariosprints.com
MORE INFOINAUGURAL LOCKHART BIG RIG SHOW'N'SHINE SET FOR FRIDAY
By Joan Roue, Scotia SpeedworldHALIFAX, NS (2005 August 8) - The inaugural Lockhart Big Rig Show'N'Shine is set for this Friday at Scotia Speedworld as part of the pre-race festivities for The Lockhart Truck Center 100, which is round four of five in the 2005 Sportsman Super Series for the C&R Auto Supply Sportsman division.
"We thought this would be unique and a neat way to let truckers show their rigs up close to people that normally just see them rolling down the highway," said David Lockhart, Dealer Principal of Lockhart Truck Center. "They do similar shows in other places but as far as we know this is the first of its kind in this area."
All truckers are invited to participate and those that do show their trucks between 5 and 7 p.m. will receive admission tickets to Friday nights show at Scotia Speedworld, complements of Lockhart Truck Center. Parking for the Show'N'Shine will commence at 3 p.m. in the main parking lot, directed by attendants.
Just before 7 p.m. the truckers will be lined up and paraded around the race track, kicking off the on track portion of The Lockhart Truck Center 100.
Besides the Big Rig Show'N'Shine, fans that bring a cash or non-perishable food donation for Feed Nova Scotia on Friday will have the chance to be the Grand Marshall for The Lockhart Truck Center 100, giving the start engines command and waving the green flag to start the race.
Truckers that wish to pre-register for the Lockhart Big Rig Show'N'Shine can do so by calling Marilyn at (902) 468-5900.
Qualifying heat races will set the starting grid for The Lockhart Truck Center 100 and the show will also feature racing action with the Miller Tire BFGoodrich Thunder & Lightning Cars and two rounds of qualifying (time trials and heat races) for the pro stock racers competing in Saturday's Atlantic CAT 250.
Once the racing stops Saturday night the party starts with The Atlantic CAT 250 Victory Lane Tailgate Party, featuring the music of popular local musician Paul Eisan and Triumph.
Special two-day grandstand admission tickets are just $35 for adults and $6 for youth aged 8 to 15. Friday only tickets are $15 for adults and $2 for youth aged 8 to 15. Saturday only tickets are $30 for adults and $5 for youth (8 to 15). Children 7 and under are admitted free both nights. All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Pit admission is $45 for a two-day ticket, $20 for Friday only and $35 for Saturday only. Pit admission is restricted to those 16 and older.
HST is included in all admission prices.
Advance grandstand tickets are now available at the following locations: DARTMOUTH - Forbes Chev Olds; Parts For Trucks; Amber Contracting; CARQUEST Auto Parts. HALIFAX - CARQUEST Auto Parts; Oland Cold Beer Store. BEDFORD - Rocky Lake Quarry. MOUNT UNIACKE - RV Contacts.
Another Top Ten For NAPA/Autopro Team: Brown Eighth At Mosport
By Ken Spencer
Doug Brown fought his way to another top-ten finish on Saturday night, this time an eighth place run at Mosport Speedway’s half-mile oval. It marked the fifth time this season that the NAPA/Autopro Monte Carlo driver had finished tenth or higher in CASCAR Super Series competition and helped strengthen his goal of reaching tenth place in the national points’ standings.
The Brantford racing veteran qualified tenth in the 20-car field and raced with a pack of eight cars through the early stages of the 200-lap event dropping back as far as twelfth as those in the pack jostled for position. But as the race passed the halfway point, Doug began a slow but determined march forward, settling into the ninth spot by lap 180.
On lap 185, Dave Whitlock spun while battling for fourth place with team mate Mark Dilley bringing out the sixth and final caution of the night, setting up a showdown for several positions at the restart.
When the green came out on lap 189 Doug was running eighth and held the spot over Whitlock, who had recovered from his spin, followed by JR Fitzpatrick (10th), Scott Steckley (11th) and Dave Jacombs (12th).
At the front of the pack, DJ Kennington scooted past Don Thomson Jr. and into the lead on lap 198 to capture the event, his third major of the season and fourth in a row counting a qualifier last weekend in Vernon BC.
Doug Brown and the rest of the CASCAR teams now head to Cayuga 2000 Speedway this Sunday for event #9 on the Super series schedule.
Doug Brown fought his way to another top-ten finish on Saturday night, this time an eighth place run at Mosport Speedway’s half-mile oval. It marked the fifth time this season that the NAPA/Autopro Monte Carlo driver had finished tenth or higher in CASCAR Super Series competition and helped strengthen his goal of reaching tenth place in the national points’ standings.
The Brantford racing veteran qualified tenth in the 20-car field and raced with a pack of eight cars through the early stages of the 200-lap event dropping back as far as twelfth as those in the pack jostled for position. But as the race passed the halfway point, Doug began a slow but determined march forward, settling into the ninth spot by lap 180.
On lap 185, Dave Whitlock spun while battling for fourth place with team mate Mark Dilley bringing out the sixth and final caution of the night, setting up a showdown for several positions at the restart.
When the green came out on lap 189 Doug was running eighth and held the spot over Whitlock, who had recovered from his spin, followed by JR Fitzpatrick (10th), Scott Steckley (11th) and Dave Jacombs (12th).
At the front of the pack, DJ Kennington scooted past Don Thomson Jr. and into the lead on lap 198 to capture the event, his third major of the season and fourth in a row counting a qualifier last weekend in Vernon BC.
Doug Brown and the rest of the CASCAR teams now head to Cayuga 2000 Speedway this Sunday for event #9 on the Super series schedule.
UPDATE: Kurt Busch signs with Penske for 2007
From Stan Creekmore....
Penske Racing South has issued a statement confirming they have signed Kurt Busch to drive starting in 2007. They have requested an early release from Rouch Racing for Busch so that he might drive for them in 2006.
Penske Racing South has issued a statement confirming they have signed Kurt Busch to drive starting in 2007. They have requested an early release from Rouch Racing for Busch so that he might drive for them in 2006.
Tough Chase For VanEs at Mosport
By Ken SpencerIt was night of chasing their car as well as the competition for Ron VanEs and his team-mates at Mosport Speedway on Saturday night but they still went home with 200 laps completed and a 13th-place finish to show for their efforts.
Handling problems showed up early during the afternoon practice sessions and carried over to qualifying where the best Ron could manage was a time of 22:784 good for 18th spot in the starting order.
With no adjustment permitted following time trials, the sophomore Super Series driver experienced problems right from the get go. As the race progressed, the team took advantage of the six caution breaks to try and correct the problems managing to keep the Star Van Systems/All Cover Systems Monte Carlo on the lead lap with each pit stop.
But late in the race, the front stabilizer bar worked its way out of its bushings further adding to the handling issues.
Nevertheless, Ron muscled the car to the finish and in so doing moved a few point closer to thirteenth spot in the Series’ standings.
The Smithville, Ontario driver and his team now head to Cayuga 2000 Speedway for this Sunday’s 200-lap race at the fast 5/8th-mile oval south of Hamilton where they’re hoping for a top-ten finish and a move to higher position in the standings.
MacLeod’s Central Merchant Services entry takes 17th at Mosport: “I just couldn’t seem to get it going”
By Bruce F. Mehlenbacher, Director of Public RelationsAugust 7, 2005, Bowmanville, ON – MacLeod Racing team driver Tara MacLeod, in the Central Merchant Services entry, placed 17th at the high-speed, half-mile oval in the Mosport Speedway 200 Saturday night in Bowmanville, Ontario in the CASCAR Super Series.
“To be honest, I had hoped for a better finish in Mosport”, explained MacLeod. “The Central Merchant Services Team did a great job preparing the car and on pit stops, but I just couldn’t seem to get it going and we’ll be happy with the finish and move on.”
DJ Kennington won the Mosport Speedway 200 event followed by Don Thomson Jr. and Ron Beauchamp Jr. in third.
MacLeod currently leads the PowerWater CASCAR Super Series Rookie of the year standings, and is 13th in the 2005 CASCAR Super Series Points Championship.
The next CASCAR Super Series race will take place Sunday, August 14 at Cayuga Speedway located in Nelles Corners, Ontario on the 5/8th-mile oval.
For information about Cayuga Speedway tickets and camping, call the Cayuga Speedway Hotline at 1.905.768.1177 (Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET) or visit online at http://www.cayuga2000speedway.com/.
Lapcevich and Team Fastline take 14th on Mosport oval
By Bruce F. Mehlenbacher, Director of Public RelationsAugust 7, 2005, Bowmanville, ON – Driving the Tim Hortons - EMCEA Transport Fastline Motorsports Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Jim Lapcevich of Hamilton finished 14th position at the CASCAR Super Series Mosport Speedway 200 on Saturday night at the high-speed, half-mile oval in Bowmanville, Ontario.
“I really don’t think we had a car to win the race tonight, but we definitely had a top-ten car,” Jim Lapcevich after the race. “We were a contender in the first half of the race before being black-flagged for an altercation and that pretty much finished us for the night in the Tim Hortons - EMCEA Transport Chevrolet Monte Carlo.”
DJ Kennington won the Mosport Speedway 200 event followed by Don Thomson Jr. and Ron Beauchamp Jr. in third.
The next CASCAR Super Series race will take place Sunday, August 14 at Cayuga Speedway located in Nelles Corners, Ontario on the 5/8th-mile oval.
For information about Cayuga Speedway tickets and camping, call the Cayuga Speedway Hotline at 1.905.768.1177 (Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET) or visit online at http://www.cayuga2000speedway.com/.
NASCAR: Kurt Busch wants out of Roush... has already signed with another team for '07
CONCORD, N.C. (August 9, 2005) – Roush Racing announced today that Kurt Busch has advised team officials that he has signed with another team commencing in 2007. The name of the team is not known. Kurt also requested a release from his contract for 2006.
Due to sponsor and team considerations no decision on that request will be made for an indefinite period. Roush Racing will have no further comment at this time.
Roush Racing is a subsidiary of Livonia, Mich., based Roush Industries that operates ten motorsports teams; five in NASCAR Nextel Cup with drivers Mark Martin, Matt Kenseth, Kurt Busch, Greg Biffle and Carl Edwards; three in the Busch Series with Martin, Kenseth and Edwards, and two in the Craftsman Truck Series with drivers Ricky Craven and Todd Kluever.
-- From Roush Racing
Brockville Ontario Speedway: Friesen wins 358 Super DIRT race
By Steve Young
BROCKVILLE, ON - Sometimes it's the left overs that taste the best. Such was the case for Niagara on the Lake's Stewart Friesen on Monday night at the Brockville Ontario Speedway. Friesen held off a hard charging Alan Johnson to take the Coca Cola Classic 50, the third event of this years Super DIRT Series for 358 Modifieds. 40 Modifieds were on hand before a near capacity crowd at the fast quarter mile clay oval.
Friesen was the final driver to draw for a top ten starting position and his fellow drivers left one can of Coke to choose from, the good news was that it was the number one starting position. Friesen led all but a couple of laps in a barnburner Brockville style. Friesen flew around the top of the speedway for most of the race but got a stiff challenge from Johnson with 10 laps to go. The veteran was able to pull in front a couple of laps as the pair ran side by side even through lapped traffic. Friesen, however was able to pull away on the final restart to score his first ever win at Brockville.
"He ran me clean, even though I think he's a little upset with me after Sunday night, he's a true professional, that's why I respect him so much," said a happy Friesen in victory lane when talking about his battle with Johnson while celebrating with the Dan Miller race team. Johnson agreed, "I ran him a little cleaner than he runs me." Brett Hearn was third followed by local favourite and the night's fastest qualifier Danny O Brien. Dale Planck rounded out the top five followed by Matt Sheppard who spun early, restarted 30th and worked his way back through the field for 6th.
It was also a two car battle in the 20 lap Street Stock event, as Adam Turner fended off points leader Billy Code in the closing laps for the victory. Code's second place finish strengthens his hold atop the standings once again. Shane Ray was a strong third followed by Peter Stapper and Steve Billings. Joe Banks took the 12 lap Rookie race beating invader Mike Tripp to the finish line. Steve Smith, Brad Kirkland and Matthieu Aubin made up the rest of the fast five.
Brockville Ontario Speedway returns to action on Friday night, August 12th with Home Hardware/Northwoods 2 Construction night with a full race program on Fan Appreciation Night. There will be an autograph session at the intermission as well as a children's box car race. The green flag drops at 7:30 pm.
BROCKVILLE, ON - Sometimes it's the left overs that taste the best. Such was the case for Niagara on the Lake's Stewart Friesen on Monday night at the Brockville Ontario Speedway. Friesen held off a hard charging Alan Johnson to take the Coca Cola Classic 50, the third event of this years Super DIRT Series for 358 Modifieds. 40 Modifieds were on hand before a near capacity crowd at the fast quarter mile clay oval.
Friesen was the final driver to draw for a top ten starting position and his fellow drivers left one can of Coke to choose from, the good news was that it was the number one starting position. Friesen led all but a couple of laps in a barnburner Brockville style. Friesen flew around the top of the speedway for most of the race but got a stiff challenge from Johnson with 10 laps to go. The veteran was able to pull in front a couple of laps as the pair ran side by side even through lapped traffic. Friesen, however was able to pull away on the final restart to score his first ever win at Brockville.
"He ran me clean, even though I think he's a little upset with me after Sunday night, he's a true professional, that's why I respect him so much," said a happy Friesen in victory lane when talking about his battle with Johnson while celebrating with the Dan Miller race team. Johnson agreed, "I ran him a little cleaner than he runs me." Brett Hearn was third followed by local favourite and the night's fastest qualifier Danny O Brien. Dale Planck rounded out the top five followed by Matt Sheppard who spun early, restarted 30th and worked his way back through the field for 6th.
It was also a two car battle in the 20 lap Street Stock event, as Adam Turner fended off points leader Billy Code in the closing laps for the victory. Code's second place finish strengthens his hold atop the standings once again. Shane Ray was a strong third followed by Peter Stapper and Steve Billings. Joe Banks took the 12 lap Rookie race beating invader Mike Tripp to the finish line. Steve Smith, Brad Kirkland and Matthieu Aubin made up the rest of the fast five.
Brockville Ontario Speedway returns to action on Friday night, August 12th with Home Hardware/Northwoods 2 Construction night with a full race program on Fan Appreciation Night. There will be an autograph session at the intermission as well as a children's box car race. The green flag drops at 7:30 pm.
KASEY KAHNE TO VISIT NASCAR SPEEDPARK AUGUST 11
VAUGHAN MILLS-AUGUST 2, 2005 - Kasey Kahne, driver of the # 9 Dodge, will be at NASCAR SpeedPark at Vaughan Mills from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, August 11. During his two-hour appearance, Kahne will be signing autographs, racing fans, answering questions and interviewing with the media.
Guests must have a wristband in order to get autographs from Kahne. NASCAR SpeedPark will have a limited number of free wristbands available on a first come, first served basis beginning at 10 a.m. on August 11. NASCAR SpeedPark will also have a limited number of wristbands available as part of a gift with purchase promotion and guests who wish to spend $50 in the NASCAR SpeedPark retail store on August 11 will receive a wristband while supplies last.
With his start at a grass roots level, Kahne’s first competitive laps came on dirt tracks in his home state of Washington. Kahne earned his first Busch Series win in the 2003 season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway and recently won his first NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series victory at Richmond International Speedway on May 14.
NASCAR SpeedPark, a division of Burroughs & Chapin Co., Inc., a privately held company based in Myrtle Beach, S.C., is an interactive entertainment facility that bridges the gap between family amusement venues and the exciting, side-by-side racing of NASCAR. An officially-licensed property of the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, NASCAR SpeedPark allows guests to experience the excitement of NASCAR by featuring several challenging racetracks, racing simulators, kid-sized rides, a souvenir shop, state-of-the-art interactive arcade, laser tag, a climbing wall and more.
An anchor of Vaughan Mills shopping centre, NASCAR SpeedPark at Vaughan Mills is the fifth NASCAR SpeedPark and first international venture for Burroughs & Chapin Co. For more information on NASCAR SpeedPark at Vaughan Mills, please call (905) 669- 7390 or log onto www.NASCARSpeedPark.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Kelly Postill, (905) 669-7373
Guests must have a wristband in order to get autographs from Kahne. NASCAR SpeedPark will have a limited number of free wristbands available on a first come, first served basis beginning at 10 a.m. on August 11. NASCAR SpeedPark will also have a limited number of wristbands available as part of a gift with purchase promotion and guests who wish to spend $50 in the NASCAR SpeedPark retail store on August 11 will receive a wristband while supplies last.
With his start at a grass roots level, Kahne’s first competitive laps came on dirt tracks in his home state of Washington. Kahne earned his first Busch Series win in the 2003 season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway and recently won his first NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series victory at Richmond International Speedway on May 14.
NASCAR SpeedPark, a division of Burroughs & Chapin Co., Inc., a privately held company based in Myrtle Beach, S.C., is an interactive entertainment facility that bridges the gap between family amusement venues and the exciting, side-by-side racing of NASCAR. An officially-licensed property of the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, NASCAR SpeedPark allows guests to experience the excitement of NASCAR by featuring several challenging racetracks, racing simulators, kid-sized rides, a souvenir shop, state-of-the-art interactive arcade, laser tag, a climbing wall and more.
An anchor of Vaughan Mills shopping centre, NASCAR SpeedPark at Vaughan Mills is the fifth NASCAR SpeedPark and first international venture for Burroughs & Chapin Co. For more information on NASCAR SpeedPark at Vaughan Mills, please call (905) 669- 7390 or log onto www.NASCARSpeedPark.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Kelly Postill, (905) 669-7373
Tracy Comments on First Day of RCR Cup Test at MIS
BROOKLYN, Mich. (Aug. 8, 2005) -- Champ Car star Paul Tracy drove Richard Childress Racing’s (RCR) No. 33 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Chevrolet today in the first day of a two-day test at Michigan International Speedway. The following are comments he made at the end of the day.
What are you overall impressions after the first day of testing?
PT: “It’s a lot different from what I do. To go out on fresh tires and really lean on it hard, sometimes to the point where I don’t know exactly how far I can push it, is still an area to learn. But that last long run was good. It was consistent and I was able to play with the line and run a consistent time the whole time and everyone was happy with it so it was a good run. Tomorrow morning we’ll try to run it a little harder on fresh tires. But I’m happy. I’m just trying to take it one step at a time and not force the car past its limits.”
David Hart, Director of Communications
Richard Childress Racing
What are you overall impressions after the first day of testing?
PT: “It’s a lot different from what I do. To go out on fresh tires and really lean on it hard, sometimes to the point where I don’t know exactly how far I can push it, is still an area to learn. But that last long run was good. It was consistent and I was able to play with the line and run a consistent time the whole time and everyone was happy with it so it was a good run. Tomorrow morning we’ll try to run it a little harder on fresh tires. But I’m happy. I’m just trying to take it one step at a time and not force the car past its limits.”
David Hart, Director of Communications
Richard Childress Racing
Monday, August 08, 2005
CASCAR: BRAD GRAHAM BATTLES THE BRAKES AND POSTS ANOTHER TOP TEN FOR THE CHALLENGER MOTOR FREIGHT/LOGEL’S AUTO PARTS DODGE
Following a strong outing at Vernon, BC Brad Graham and the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Charger team were set for more success on the fast half mile oval at Mosport Speedway.
Trouble would find the team early. The Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Dodge began suffering brake troubles early in the day, and Brad was only able to claim a 15th place start. “We had troubles right from the start and it hurt us” said the driver. That’s why we had to use some strategy during the race”.
During two early caution periods the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts team would call Brad in for adjustments. With some improved handling and a two tire change the car did begin to improve and Graham would move quickly into the top ten.
At about the halfway point the team decided to play the strategy game again. When the leaders made pit stops, Graham and the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Dodge stayed on track and assumed the lead. “We rolled the dice and went for track position. We were fast and hoped this would help get us a good finish”.
Brad would surrender the lead to cars with fresher tires but was able to at times manhandle the car home for a solid sixth place finish. “I was on the edge of my seat the whole race” said Graham afterwards. “To get this kind of finish with a car that I had to fight all night is pretty good. These guys gave me great pit stops again, I can’t say enough about them. This team is really on the upswing and we’re looking forward to the final four events.
With his fifth top ten finish of the season Graham maintains seventh spot in the overall CASCAR Super Series championship standings.
The CASCAR Super Series moves to the longest track oval on the circuit for round number nine at Cayuga Speedway on Sunday August 14th.
The CASCAR Super Series is Canada’s only sanctioned National touring stock car racing series competing from coast to coast. CASCAR stages events at the most famous oval tracks in Canada such as Cayuga Speedway and Delaware Speedway and also competes on the temporary street circuit at the Molson Indy Toronto.
For more information regarding Brad Graham and the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Dodge log onto cascar.ca.
This release prepared by Todd Lewis, TL Sports & Entertainment, tandt@pathcom.com (905) 978-7090
Trouble would find the team early. The Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Dodge began suffering brake troubles early in the day, and Brad was only able to claim a 15th place start. “We had troubles right from the start and it hurt us” said the driver. That’s why we had to use some strategy during the race”.
During two early caution periods the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts team would call Brad in for adjustments. With some improved handling and a two tire change the car did begin to improve and Graham would move quickly into the top ten.
At about the halfway point the team decided to play the strategy game again. When the leaders made pit stops, Graham and the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Dodge stayed on track and assumed the lead. “We rolled the dice and went for track position. We were fast and hoped this would help get us a good finish”.
Brad would surrender the lead to cars with fresher tires but was able to at times manhandle the car home for a solid sixth place finish. “I was on the edge of my seat the whole race” said Graham afterwards. “To get this kind of finish with a car that I had to fight all night is pretty good. These guys gave me great pit stops again, I can’t say enough about them. This team is really on the upswing and we’re looking forward to the final four events.
With his fifth top ten finish of the season Graham maintains seventh spot in the overall CASCAR Super Series championship standings.
The CASCAR Super Series moves to the longest track oval on the circuit for round number nine at Cayuga Speedway on Sunday August 14th.
The CASCAR Super Series is Canada’s only sanctioned National touring stock car racing series competing from coast to coast. CASCAR stages events at the most famous oval tracks in Canada such as Cayuga Speedway and Delaware Speedway and also competes on the temporary street circuit at the Molson Indy Toronto.
For more information regarding Brad Graham and the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Dodge log onto cascar.ca.
This release prepared by Todd Lewis, TL Sports & Entertainment, tandt@pathcom.com (905) 978-7090
CASCAR: BRYAN CATHCART FIGHTS HANDLING PROBLEMS AT MOSPORT
Bryan Cathcart and the Meyers Transport/Peterborough Homes/Parkview Homes Dodge team had high hopes as they returned to action at Mopsort Speedway. With a rested and prepared crew another solid finish was expected.
Cathcart would start the Meyers Transport/Peterborough Homes/Parkview Homes Dodge from the 15th starting spot. In the middle of traffic is certainly not where he wanted to be but Bryan knew if he ran a patient race a good finish was still possible. As the race began the car handled well in traffic and Cathcart was able to improve a couple of positions. “Things started out fine and we looked to be finding our stride” he said afterwards”.
Following the first caution period however the cars handling changed dramatically, and not for the better. “It just got so bad, so fast that something must have broken a shock or something” described the driver. It was just rolling over so bad coming out of the corner that I couldn’t get the power down until the car was straight and it made for a very frustrating night”.
Cathcart would be forced to nurse the Meyers Transport/Peterborough Homes/Parkview Homes Dodge around the half mile oval all night. Ever competitive however when a late race caution flag occurred, the team made a quick pit stop to change a right rear tire, that quick fix enabled Bryan enough of an advantage to pass another car for position in the closing laps. “It may seem like a small gain, but little things like that help. We’ll go over the car thoroughly this week to find the problem and be ready to go again next week.
Bryan Cathcart and the Meyers Transport/Peterborough Homes/Parkview Homes Dodge will be back in action at Cayuga Speedway this coming Sunday, August 14th. Action begins at 10AM with practice followed by qualifying and the green flag for 200 laps of racing at 2:30PM.
The CASCAR Super Series is the only National Touring Series of Stock Car Racing in Canada. 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
This release prepared by Todd Lewis, TL Sports & Entertainment, tandt@pathcom.com (905) 978-7090
Cathcart would start the Meyers Transport/Peterborough Homes/Parkview Homes Dodge from the 15th starting spot. In the middle of traffic is certainly not where he wanted to be but Bryan knew if he ran a patient race a good finish was still possible. As the race began the car handled well in traffic and Cathcart was able to improve a couple of positions. “Things started out fine and we looked to be finding our stride” he said afterwards”.
Following the first caution period however the cars handling changed dramatically, and not for the better. “It just got so bad, so fast that something must have broken a shock or something” described the driver. It was just rolling over so bad coming out of the corner that I couldn’t get the power down until the car was straight and it made for a very frustrating night”.
Cathcart would be forced to nurse the Meyers Transport/Peterborough Homes/Parkview Homes Dodge around the half mile oval all night. Ever competitive however when a late race caution flag occurred, the team made a quick pit stop to change a right rear tire, that quick fix enabled Bryan enough of an advantage to pass another car for position in the closing laps. “It may seem like a small gain, but little things like that help. We’ll go over the car thoroughly this week to find the problem and be ready to go again next week.
Bryan Cathcart and the Meyers Transport/Peterborough Homes/Parkview Homes Dodge will be back in action at Cayuga Speedway this coming Sunday, August 14th. Action begins at 10AM with practice followed by qualifying and the green flag for 200 laps of racing at 2:30PM.
The CASCAR Super Series is the only National Touring Series of Stock Car Racing in Canada. 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
This release prepared by Todd Lewis, TL Sports & Entertainment, tandt@pathcom.com (905) 978-7090
Ontario Pro Challenge: New Website Launched
The Ontario Pro Challenge Series launched its ‘all new’ website this week.
“We are really happy with the new site,” said series coordinator Kathy Nicholson.
The Official site of the Ontario Pro Challenge Series is www.prochallengeracing.com.
“We are really happy with the new site,” said series coordinator Kathy Nicholson.
The Official site of the Ontario Pro Challenge Series is www.prochallengeracing.com.
ALSTAR: Charity Ride Update
Schedule of events:
Sat. Aug 20th/05
Show & Shine 8:00 am to 10:00 at SHOULDICE DESIGNER STONE To Barrie Speedway
Breakfast at SHOULDICE DESIGNER STONE with "Proceeds to War Amps"
Registration Fee to Join in the ALSTAR Charity Ride $10.00 which is donated to WAR AMPS
With the "Ride With Us Tour" fast approaching, I thought I would send a quick update on the overall complexion of the ALSTAR Charity Ride.
Participation in the ride is continuing to grow with lots of interest shown by other parties and the gratitude of "The War Amps".
Shouldice Designer Stone is erecting a large tent at their complex in Shallow Lake for the morning of the ride. Breakfast will be sold & served at this place to any one interested in partaking in a breakfast with all monies donated to "The War Amps".
A Show & Shine for all cars, trucks & motorcycles will be staged at this location. Radio Owen Sound has committed to being onsite with their Community Cruisers to do live radio broadcasts throughout this portion of this event.
MP Larry Miller has excepted an invitation to be in attendance of this breakfast event.
There will be administration tables set up on site & Registration for the ride and any Pledge Sheets will be taken at this point.
We will be leaving Shouldice Designer Stone starting at 10:00 am for an approximate 1 1/2 hour ride to Primrose corners for a break for all needs. The Road Captains for this "Ride With Us Tour" are the firefighter motorcycle club of the Red Knight's, Ontario Chapter 3. Groups will have to be formed, and depart at different intervals as it looks like the convoy will be too large to travel in one congregation. There are restaurants, gas stations & washrooms at this intersection in Primrose. Another Show & Shine may happen at this junction to quell the curiosity of the people from this area.
We will be leaving Primrose at 12:30 for an approximate 1 1/2 hour ride to Barrie Speedway. Again our departure may have to happen in segments as to avoid causing traffic confusion/congestion along the route.
At Barrie Speedway we will commence our ceremonies of:
(1) distributing of over fourty collected prizes by random drawing to the registered participants in the event.
(2) announcing the winner of the CRC Mfg. custom jacket to the participant with the Most Pledges
(3) donating all the collected monies to "The War Amps" with a photo shoot for publicity purposes.
(4) a BBQ & soft drinks for all registered participants of this ride.
There will be ample time in the late afternoon for anyone who has registered to stay in the Orillia/Barrie area that evening to check into their motel/hotel rooms or their campsite before the starting of the Shouldice Designer Stone ALSTAR Series races that evening.
If you have not reserved a room or a campsite for that evening, you can check out the sites on our web page under the Detailed Route & Accommodations tab. To all parties that have to make the return trip home, your trip should be in day light hours.
Once again, a huge "Thank you" to all you people that have supported the tremendous organization of "The War Amps" by either supporting this event or donating product for this event. We are in our inaugural year for this "Ride With Us Tour" and are hoping we won't be tolerating too many growing pains.
We already in the planning stages for making this a bigger and hopefully better event next year.
Drive Safe
Keith Hepburn
http://www.alstarseries.com/ALSTAR_Officia/Motorcylce_ALS.html
Sat. Aug 20th/05
Show & Shine 8:00 am to 10:00 at SHOULDICE DESIGNER STONE To Barrie Speedway
Breakfast at SHOULDICE DESIGNER STONE with "Proceeds to War Amps"
Registration Fee to Join in the ALSTAR Charity Ride $10.00 which is donated to WAR AMPS
With the "Ride With Us Tour" fast approaching, I thought I would send a quick update on the overall complexion of the ALSTAR Charity Ride.
Participation in the ride is continuing to grow with lots of interest shown by other parties and the gratitude of "The War Amps".
Shouldice Designer Stone is erecting a large tent at their complex in Shallow Lake for the morning of the ride. Breakfast will be sold & served at this place to any one interested in partaking in a breakfast with all monies donated to "The War Amps".
A Show & Shine for all cars, trucks & motorcycles will be staged at this location. Radio Owen Sound has committed to being onsite with their Community Cruisers to do live radio broadcasts throughout this portion of this event.
MP Larry Miller has excepted an invitation to be in attendance of this breakfast event.
There will be administration tables set up on site & Registration for the ride and any Pledge Sheets will be taken at this point.
We will be leaving Shouldice Designer Stone starting at 10:00 am for an approximate 1 1/2 hour ride to Primrose corners for a break for all needs. The Road Captains for this "Ride With Us Tour" are the firefighter motorcycle club of the Red Knight's, Ontario Chapter 3. Groups will have to be formed, and depart at different intervals as it looks like the convoy will be too large to travel in one congregation. There are restaurants, gas stations & washrooms at this intersection in Primrose. Another Show & Shine may happen at this junction to quell the curiosity of the people from this area.
We will be leaving Primrose at 12:30 for an approximate 1 1/2 hour ride to Barrie Speedway. Again our departure may have to happen in segments as to avoid causing traffic confusion/congestion along the route.
At Barrie Speedway we will commence our ceremonies of:
(1) distributing of over fourty collected prizes by random drawing to the registered participants in the event.
(2) announcing the winner of the CRC Mfg. custom jacket to the participant with the Most Pledges
(3) donating all the collected monies to "The War Amps" with a photo shoot for publicity purposes.
(4) a BBQ & soft drinks for all registered participants of this ride.
There will be ample time in the late afternoon for anyone who has registered to stay in the Orillia/Barrie area that evening to check into their motel/hotel rooms or their campsite before the starting of the Shouldice Designer Stone ALSTAR Series races that evening.
If you have not reserved a room or a campsite for that evening, you can check out the sites on our web page under the Detailed Route & Accommodations tab. To all parties that have to make the return trip home, your trip should be in day light hours.
Once again, a huge "Thank you" to all you people that have supported the tremendous organization of "The War Amps" by either supporting this event or donating product for this event. We are in our inaugural year for this "Ride With Us Tour" and are hoping we won't be tolerating too many growing pains.
We already in the planning stages for making this a bigger and hopefully better event next year.
Drive Safe
Keith Hepburn
http://www.alstarseries.com/ALSTAR_Officia/Motorcylce_ALS.html
CASCAR SS: Another Top Ten For NAPA/Autopro Team: Brown Eighth At Mosport
Doug Brown fought his way to another top-ten finish on Saturday night, this time an eighth place run at Mosport Speedway’s half-mile oval. It marked the fifth time this season that the NAPA/Autopro Monte Carlo driver had finished tenth or higher in CASCAR Super Series competition and helped strengthen his goal of reaching tenth place in the national points’ standings.
The Brantford racing veteran qualified tenth in the 20-car field and raced with a pack of eight cars through the early stages of the 200-lap event dropping back as far as twelfth as those in the pack jostled for position. But as the race passed the halfway point, Doug began a slow but determined march forward, settling into the ninth spot by lap 180.
On lap 185, Dave Whitlock spun while battling for fourth place with team mate Mark Dilley bringing out the sixth and final caution of the night setting up a showdown for several positions at the restart.
When the green came out on lap 189 Doug was running eighth and held the spot over Whitlock, who had recovered from his spin, followed by JR Fitzpatrick (10th), Scott Steckley (11th) and Dave Jacombs (12th).
At the front of the pack, DJ Kennington scooted past Don Thomson Jr. and into the lead on lap 198 to capture the event, his third major of the season and fourth in a row counting a qualifier last weekend in Vernon BC.
Doug Brown and the rest of the CASCAR teams now head to Cayuga 2000 Speedway this Sunday for event #9 on the Super series schedule.
The Brown Auto Racing #10 CASCAR Super Series Team is proud to have NAPA/Autopro as its Title Sponsor with Valvoline Canada as a Major Associate Sponsor and NAPA Brake and Chassis; Bicknell Racing Products; World of Graphics; HurryPrint Imaging Centre; WIX Filters; Jebbo's Electronics Warehouse; KWIC Internet; Gates Canada; BOC Gases; Advance Printing; Brochures etc; ACE Transmissions, What Spring Water and Clearshop Custom forming Associate Sponsorship roles on our sponsorship/marketing team.
Prepared By:
Ken Spencer // Marketing and Media Relations
Brown Auto Racing
For additional information on Brown Auto Racing, see www.dougbrown.net or contact Doug Brown at (519) 752-9531
The Brantford racing veteran qualified tenth in the 20-car field and raced with a pack of eight cars through the early stages of the 200-lap event dropping back as far as twelfth as those in the pack jostled for position. But as the race passed the halfway point, Doug began a slow but determined march forward, settling into the ninth spot by lap 180.
On lap 185, Dave Whitlock spun while battling for fourth place with team mate Mark Dilley bringing out the sixth and final caution of the night setting up a showdown for several positions at the restart.
When the green came out on lap 189 Doug was running eighth and held the spot over Whitlock, who had recovered from his spin, followed by JR Fitzpatrick (10th), Scott Steckley (11th) and Dave Jacombs (12th).
At the front of the pack, DJ Kennington scooted past Don Thomson Jr. and into the lead on lap 198 to capture the event, his third major of the season and fourth in a row counting a qualifier last weekend in Vernon BC.
Doug Brown and the rest of the CASCAR teams now head to Cayuga 2000 Speedway this Sunday for event #9 on the Super series schedule.
The Brown Auto Racing #10 CASCAR Super Series Team is proud to have NAPA/Autopro as its Title Sponsor with Valvoline Canada as a Major Associate Sponsor and NAPA Brake and Chassis; Bicknell Racing Products; World of Graphics; HurryPrint Imaging Centre; WIX Filters; Jebbo's Electronics Warehouse; KWIC Internet; Gates Canada; BOC Gases; Advance Printing; Brochures etc; ACE Transmissions, What Spring Water and Clearshop Custom forming Associate Sponsorship roles on our sponsorship/marketing team.
Prepared By:
Ken Spencer // Marketing and Media Relations
Brown Auto Racing
For additional information on Brown Auto Racing, see www.dougbrown.net or contact Doug Brown at (519) 752-9531
Sunday, August 07, 2005
CASCAR SS: Mosport Speedway - Kennington wins again
DJ Kennington wins his third CASCAR Super Series race in a row with a late-race pass on Don Thomson in Saturday night’s Mosport Speedway 200BOWMANVILLE, ON – DJ Kennington extended his CASCAR Super Series winning streak to three feature events on Saturday night when he passed Don Thomson on lap 198 of the Mosport Speedway 200. Thomson had started on the pole and led the virtually the entire race in dominant fashion, but a late caution flag set up a battle between he and Kennington for the final 11 laps.
Following the lap 189 restart, Kennington dogged Thomson’s Home Hardware Chevy for several tours around Mosport Speedway’s half-mile oval. And after a handful of failed attempts to go underneath Thomson as the pair exited turn 2, the Castrol Dodge driver changed strategy and powered to the outside of the four-time National champion just prior to the start of the final lap.
From there, Kennington moved in front of Thomson and beat him to the checkered flag by just over a third of a second. The victory by the St. Thomas, ON racer mirrored his July 30 win at Vernon, BC’s Sun Valley Speedway when he passed Brad Graham just before the end of the race.
“Our car wasn’t the best one on the track for most of the race, but it was the best one when it counted,” said Kennington. “All that matters is that we led the last lap. I wanted to save the tires and the brakes for the end. I knew Donnie was going to run away with the race because he’s awesome here. That caution at the end made all the difference because he was so far ahead before that, that he was in a different area code. Our car is set up to come on at the end and that’s what happened again tonight.”
Thomson, who has won at Mosport many times in the past, was understandably frustrated to see the win slip away after holding commanding leads for the majority of the 200 laps. According to the Hamilton, ON racer, the set of right-side tires that went on the car during the lap 100 pit stop didn’t perform as well as the set that started the race, and that made the difference at the end.
The final podium spot at Mosport Speedway went to Ron Beauchamp Jr., driver of the MOPAR Parts / Exide / Mobil 1 Dodge Charger. The Windsor, ON racer started second in the field of 20 and overcame handling problems with 50 laps to go to take third-place in the eighth of 12 Super Series events in ’05.
The next CASCAR Super Series event takes place August 14 at Cayuga 2000 Speedway, south of Hamilton, Ontario.
CASCAR ON TV: For information regarding initial airings and replays of Super Series races on SPORTSNET, please check your local listings or visit http://www.cascar.ca/schedule/tv_schedule.html.
POINT STANDINGS: After 8 events. Unofficial Top 15 as of August 6, 2005: 1. #4 Don Thomson Jr. (1582 pts.); 2. #1 Peter Gibbons (1493); 3. #17 DJ Kennington (1474); 4. #9 Mark Dilley (1443); 5. 39 Dave Whitlock (1412); 6. #02 Kerry Micks (1405); 7. #19 Brad Graham (1401); 8. #84 J.R. Fitzpatrick (1390); 9. #60 Ron Beauchamp Jr. (1382); 10. #88 Dave Jacombs (1296); 11. #22 Scott Steckly (1260); 12. #10 Doug Brown (1238); 13. #37 Tara MacLeod ® (1216); 14. #11 Ron VanEs (1206); 15. #3 Stu Robinson Jr. (1168).
® Denotes Rookie of the Year.
CASCAR Super Series
RESULTS: Mosport Speedway 200
Round 8 of 12 // August 6, 2005 // Mosport Speedway
Bowmanville, Ontario // 200 Laps // ½-mile oval
FIN. ST. # DRIVER (HOMETOWN) SPONSOR(S) / MAKE LAPS
1 8 17 DJ Kennington (St. Thomas, ON) Castrol Canada Dodge 200
2 1 4 Don Thomson Jr. (Hamilton, ON) Home Hardware Chevrolet Monte Carlo 200
3 2 60 Ron Beauchamp Jr. (Windsor, ON) MOPAR Parts / Exide / Mobil 1 Dodge Charger 200
4 4 9 Mark Dilley (Barrie, ON) Exide / Dodge / PowerWater / Mobil 1 Dodge Charger 200
5 19 1 Peter Gibbons (Stouffville, ON) Canadian Tire Corporation Chevrolet Monte Carlo 200
6 15 19 Brad Graham (Glencoe, ON) Challenger Motor Frt. / Logel’s Dodge Charger 200
7 6 77 Derek Lynch (Warkworth, ON) R Berms R Us Dodge Charger 200
8 9 10 Doug Brown (Brantford, ON) NAPA / Autopro Chevrolet Monte Carlo 200
9 3 39 Dave Whitlock (Wyoming, ON) Avenue Motor Works / NMT Dodge Charger 200
10 5 84 J.R. Fitzpatrick (Ayr, ON) Cambridge Rigging Chevrolet Monte Carlo 200
11 20 22 Scott Steckly (Milverton, ON) Metro Toronto / ERB Group Pontiac Grand Prix 200
12 12 88 Dave Jacombs (Mt. Hope, ON) Lou’s BBQ Ford Taurus 200
13 16 11 Ron VanEs (Smithville, ON) Star Van Systems / All Cover Chevrolet Monte Carlo 200
14 7 25 Jim Lapcevich (Hamilton, ON) Fastline / EMCEA Transport / Tim Hortons Chevrolet Monte Carlo 199
15 11 71 Bryan Cathcart (Peterborough, ON) Meyers Transport / Peterborough Homes Dodge 198
16 14 3 Stu Robinson Jr. (Holland Landing, ON) Snap-On Tools Dodge 198
17 17 37 Tara MacLeod (Innisfil, ON) R Central Merchant Services Ford Taurus 196
18 18 18 Chad McGlynn (Petersburg, ON) R Awesome Racewear / Ultimate Garage Ford Taurus 74
19 10 02 Kerry Micks (Mt. Albert, ON) PowerWater Ford Taurus 39
20 13 93 Joe Goncalves (Concord, ON) G.P.S. Automotive Refinishes Ltd. Chevrolet Monte Carlo 29
R after the hometown denotes Rookie contender.
POLESITTER: #4 Don Thomson Jr. (21.999 seconds) // TIME OF RACE: 1 hour, 36 minutes and 22.419 seconds // AVERAGE SPEED: 68.483 mph // MARGIN OF VICTORY: 0.339 seconds // CAUTIONS: 6 for a total of 31 laps // LAP LEADERS: #4 Don Thomson Jr. (1-102), #19 Brad Graham (103-109), #9 Mark Dilley (110-123), #4 Don Thomson Jr. (124-198), #17 Kennington (199-200) // GOODYEAR BELTS & HOSES FASTEST LAP: #60 Ron Beauchamp Jr. (22.174 on lap 5)
Contact CASCAR at (519) 641-1214 or visit www.cascar.ca
Prepared by Inside Track Communications. // Contact: Greg MacPherson (416) 561-2320 (cell).
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