Saturday, September 10, 2005
WHEELS: Norris McDonald's column in Saturday's Star
Norris McDonald's Track Talk column in Saturday's Wheels Section includes a nice plug for tonight's CASCAR Super Series race at Cayuga Speedway. Thanks Norris!
Friday, September 09, 2005
CHAMPIONSHIP BATTLE DRAWS CLOSER IN DIVISION II OF NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY SERIES
By Jeremy Davidson, NASCAR Public Relations
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Sept. 7, 2005) – Chris Spieker of Massena, Iowa, has led the point standings in Division II of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series practically all season. As the competition winds down, however, he has seen his lead shrink to just 34 points.
Mike Hansen of Alton Iowa, and Joe Kosiski of Omaha, Neb., are putting the pressure on as they head into the final two weeks before the NASCAR season concludes on Sept. 18.
Spieker has accumulated 1,084 points – competing this year at Adams County Speedway in Corning, Iowa, on Saturdays and I-80 Speedway at Nebraska Raceway Park in Greenwood, Neb., on Sundays. He scored a win at I-80 Speedway over the Labor Day Weekend, along with a fourth-place finish at Adams County Speedway.
Hansen has 1,050 points, after finishing fourth in the NASCAR Modified class at Park Jefferson Speedway in Jefferson, S.D., on Saturday.
Kosiski is third in the NDWS division II standings, just two markers back with 1,048. He also picked up a win over the weekend at I-80 Speedway, along with finishing seventh at Adams County Speedway.
Retaining the fourth spot in the NDWS Division II point standings this week is Jeff Strunk of Bethel, Pa. He finished fourth at Grandview Speedway in Bechtelsville, Penn., on Saturday. Gaining two positions to fifth in the division is Bakersfield, Calif., driver Eric Richardson, who has 888 points after finishing third in Late Model competition at the high-banked half-mile track last week.
A win on his home track of Stockton (Calif.) 99 Speedway helped Pete Anderson Jr., solidify his hold on sixth in the NDWS Division II standings with 868 points.
For the second consecutive week, drivers scrambled for positions behind him in the NDWS Division II point standings. Scott Bonney of North Chelmsford, Mass., is seventh with 854 points. Robert Barker of Boerne, Texas, gained a spot – moving to eighth with 832 points. Two Canadian drivers were also one the move: Scott Lindsay, from Delaware (Ontario) Speedway, moved up five positions to ninth, with 822 points while Gerry Bergeron, from Autodrome St. Eustache in Quebec, jumped three spots to 10th with 810 points.
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. Four drivers will win a Division championship, which includes a $25,000 bonus and a chance at the $50,000 national championship bonus. One of the divisional champions – the champion with the highest point total overall – wins the national award.
Last Week’s Division II Leaders …
(Driver, Home Track, Points)
1. Chris Spieker, Adams County Speedway, 1,078
2. Mike Hansen, Park Jefferson Speedway, 1,040
3. Joe Kosiski, I-80 Speedway, 1,034
4. Jeff Strunk, Grandview Speedway, 1,010
5. Scott Bonney, Lee USA Speedway, 854
6. Pete Anderson Jr., Stockton 99 Speedway, 838
7. Eric Richardson, Mesa Marin Raceway, 822
8. Stacey Gerken, Lorain Speedway, 800
9. Robert Barker, San Antonio Speedway, 782
10. Travis Sharpe, Concord Motorsport Park, 772
11. Jeremy Lapainis, Edmonton International Raceway, 742
12. Dennis Pelphrey, Watsonville Speedway, 716
13. Gerry Bergeron, Autodrome St. Eustache, 702
14. Scott Lindsay, Delaware Speedway, 688
15. Mark Bliss, Holland International Speedway, 668
16. Greg Hardee, Myrtle Beach Speedway, 658
17. Alan Pyszora, Shasta Raceway Park, 584
18. Bill Hebing Jr., Spencer Speedway, 570
go to www.weeklyracingseries.com for up-to-date standings.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Sept. 7, 2005) – Chris Spieker of Massena, Iowa, has led the point standings in Division II of the NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series practically all season. As the competition winds down, however, he has seen his lead shrink to just 34 points.
Mike Hansen of Alton Iowa, and Joe Kosiski of Omaha, Neb., are putting the pressure on as they head into the final two weeks before the NASCAR season concludes on Sept. 18.
Spieker has accumulated 1,084 points – competing this year at Adams County Speedway in Corning, Iowa, on Saturdays and I-80 Speedway at Nebraska Raceway Park in Greenwood, Neb., on Sundays. He scored a win at I-80 Speedway over the Labor Day Weekend, along with a fourth-place finish at Adams County Speedway.
Hansen has 1,050 points, after finishing fourth in the NASCAR Modified class at Park Jefferson Speedway in Jefferson, S.D., on Saturday.
Kosiski is third in the NDWS division II standings, just two markers back with 1,048. He also picked up a win over the weekend at I-80 Speedway, along with finishing seventh at Adams County Speedway.
Retaining the fourth spot in the NDWS Division II point standings this week is Jeff Strunk of Bethel, Pa. He finished fourth at Grandview Speedway in Bechtelsville, Penn., on Saturday. Gaining two positions to fifth in the division is Bakersfield, Calif., driver Eric Richardson, who has 888 points after finishing third in Late Model competition at the high-banked half-mile track last week.
A win on his home track of Stockton (Calif.) 99 Speedway helped Pete Anderson Jr., solidify his hold on sixth in the NDWS Division II standings with 868 points.
For the second consecutive week, drivers scrambled for positions behind him in the NDWS Division II point standings. Scott Bonney of North Chelmsford, Mass., is seventh with 854 points. Robert Barker of Boerne, Texas, gained a spot – moving to eighth with 832 points. Two Canadian drivers were also one the move: Scott Lindsay, from Delaware (Ontario) Speedway, moved up five positions to ninth, with 822 points while Gerry Bergeron, from Autodrome St. Eustache in Quebec, jumped three spots to 10th with 810 points.
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. Four drivers will win a Division championship, which includes a $25,000 bonus and a chance at the $50,000 national championship bonus. One of the divisional champions – the champion with the highest point total overall – wins the national award.
Last Week’s Division II Leaders …
(Driver, Home Track, Points)
1. Chris Spieker, Adams County Speedway, 1,078
2. Mike Hansen, Park Jefferson Speedway, 1,040
3. Joe Kosiski, I-80 Speedway, 1,034
4. Jeff Strunk, Grandview Speedway, 1,010
5. Scott Bonney, Lee USA Speedway, 854
6. Pete Anderson Jr., Stockton 99 Speedway, 838
7. Eric Richardson, Mesa Marin Raceway, 822
8. Stacey Gerken, Lorain Speedway, 800
9. Robert Barker, San Antonio Speedway, 782
10. Travis Sharpe, Concord Motorsport Park, 772
11. Jeremy Lapainis, Edmonton International Raceway, 742
12. Dennis Pelphrey, Watsonville Speedway, 716
13. Gerry Bergeron, Autodrome St. Eustache, 702
14. Scott Lindsay, Delaware Speedway, 688
15. Mark Bliss, Holland International Speedway, 668
16. Greg Hardee, Myrtle Beach Speedway, 658
17. Alan Pyszora, Shasta Raceway Park, 584
18. Bill Hebing Jr., Spencer Speedway, 570
go to www.weeklyracingseries.com for up-to-date standings.
WOSCA Event Rescheduled...
Courtesy Dave MathersSparta, ON, September 9, 2005 – The Western Ontario Sports Car Association event originally scheduled for Sunday, September 25 has been rescheduled to Saturday, October 15.
Gates open at 10 A.M., Time Trials at 11 A.M. and Eliminations at 2 P.M.
The change was required as club organizer Greg Marsh, along with his son Eric, will be representing St. Thomas Dragway at the IHRA Division 3 Bracket Finals in Norwalk, Ohio September 23 - 25.
For further information, contact the track at 519-775-2263 or visit the website at http://www.stthomasdragway.com/.
BRIGHTON AUTOMOTIVE PROSTOCKS: What A RACE Night tomorrow will bring...
Courtesy Brighton Speedway Park
The Brighton Automotive ProStocks will be racing the second 1/2 of the Duel in the Dirt.. in Merritville... Good Luck Guys and Gals..
DOUBLE FEATURES (includes rain outs from Aug 27) for the Bainer's RAdiator Canadian Modifieds, Bill's Johns Comp 4, and Mister SIgnz Novice....
The Workman Repair School Bus Races make their second visit to BSP... qualifiers and the Main Event FEATURE are slated to run...
DIRT Modified Dash for Cash... a prelude to their visit on September 24th...
Green Flag flies at 7:30pm... See you in the stands (or pits)
Your email address has been added to the Brighton Speedway Park (BSP) Insider mail list. If you wish to be removed from this list please reply with REMOVE as the subject and we will remove your address.
Racing on Dirt... as it should be!!
The Brighton Automotive ProStocks will be racing the second 1/2 of the Duel in the Dirt.. in Merritville... Good Luck Guys and Gals..
DOUBLE FEATURES (includes rain outs from Aug 27) for the Bainer's RAdiator Canadian Modifieds, Bill's Johns Comp 4, and Mister SIgnz Novice....
The Workman Repair School Bus Races make their second visit to BSP... qualifiers and the Main Event FEATURE are slated to run...
DIRT Modified Dash for Cash... a prelude to their visit on September 24th...
Green Flag flies at 7:30pm... See you in the stands (or pits)
Your email address has been added to the Brighton Speedway Park (BSP) Insider mail list. If you wish to be removed from this list please reply with REMOVE as the subject and we will remove your address.
Racing on Dirt... as it should be!!
GENERAL PUBLIC INVITED TO DONATE TO AMERICAN RED CROSS AND DRIVE ON TRACK DURING WEEK-LONG “DRIVE FOR RELIEF” AT MIS
By Bill Janitz, Director of Public Relations, Michigan International Speedway
BROOKLYN, Mich. – The general public will get the rare opportunity to drive on the 2-mile Michigan International Speedway oval, and raise money for Hurricane Katrina victims in the process, during the week-long “Drive for Relief” at MIS, track officials announced today.
For a donation to the American Red Cross Hurricane Katrina Disaster effort, the public will be encouraged to visit MIS and take a lap at a controlled speed around the 2-mile oval in their personal vehicles or motorcycles during posted times starting on Monday, September 12 and ending on Friday, September 16.
“With MIS already hosting the Spirit of America 500 blood drive this Sunday, it seemed like a natural time to kick off a week of support for the American Red Cross since they are such a great partner and in need of additional help right now,” said MIS President Brett Shelton. “We get a countless number of requests from the general public to drive on the race track. While we don’t normally allow this, this is a perfect opportunity to both drive on the race track and donate to a very worthy cause.”
All vehicles must utilize the U.S. 12 entrance to the facility. They will be directed to enter the track outside of Turn 2. Vehicles will then stop at the start/finish line at MIS to give their donation and exit the track again outside of Turn 2.
Days and times for the “Drive for Relief” at MIS are as follows:
Monday, September 12, 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, September 13, 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, September 14, 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Thursday, September 15, 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Friday, September 16, 5:30-7:00 p.m.
For those who can’t make it to MIS, donations to the American Red Cross Hurricane Katrina disaster relief efforts can be made by visiting www.racefans.com, a website launched last week by Talladega Superspeedway, a sister track to MIS that is spearheading the ISC efforts to raise money for Hurricane victims because of their close proximity to the affected areas.
Last week, ISC’s corporate office located in Daytona Beach, Fla., committed $1 million in funding and services to jump start the initiative and support the call to action by Talladega Superspeedway. Funding and services include monetary donations and clothing from ISC’s merchandising subsidiary Americrown.
BROOKLYN, Mich. – The general public will get the rare opportunity to drive on the 2-mile Michigan International Speedway oval, and raise money for Hurricane Katrina victims in the process, during the week-long “Drive for Relief” at MIS, track officials announced today.
For a donation to the American Red Cross Hurricane Katrina Disaster effort, the public will be encouraged to visit MIS and take a lap at a controlled speed around the 2-mile oval in their personal vehicles or motorcycles during posted times starting on Monday, September 12 and ending on Friday, September 16.
“With MIS already hosting the Spirit of America 500 blood drive this Sunday, it seemed like a natural time to kick off a week of support for the American Red Cross since they are such a great partner and in need of additional help right now,” said MIS President Brett Shelton. “We get a countless number of requests from the general public to drive on the race track. While we don’t normally allow this, this is a perfect opportunity to both drive on the race track and donate to a very worthy cause.”
All vehicles must utilize the U.S. 12 entrance to the facility. They will be directed to enter the track outside of Turn 2. Vehicles will then stop at the start/finish line at MIS to give their donation and exit the track again outside of Turn 2.
Days and times for the “Drive for Relief” at MIS are as follows:
Monday, September 12, 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, September 13, 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, September 14, 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Thursday, September 15, 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Friday, September 16, 5:30-7:00 p.m.
For those who can’t make it to MIS, donations to the American Red Cross Hurricane Katrina disaster relief efforts can be made by visiting www.racefans.com, a website launched last week by Talladega Superspeedway, a sister track to MIS that is spearheading the ISC efforts to raise money for Hurricane victims because of their close proximity to the affected areas.
Last week, ISC’s corporate office located in Daytona Beach, Fla., committed $1 million in funding and services to jump start the initiative and support the call to action by Talladega Superspeedway. Funding and services include monetary donations and clothing from ISC’s merchandising subsidiary Americrown.
DIRT MotorSports, Inc. Cancels Southern Shoot-Out '05 At Volusia Speedway Park
By DIRT MotorSports PRNORMAN, OK (September 7) – Although renovations to modernize Volusia Speedway Park are well underway, delays due to an extremely wet summer will make it impossible to complete the improvements in time to run the 2005 Southern Shoot-Out as originally scheduled, Dec. 1-3, forcing DIRT MotorSports, Inc. to cancel the event that was to showcase the World of Outlaws Sprint Series, the World of Outlaws Stacker 2® Late Model Series and the Advance Auto Parts Modified Super DIRT Series.
Work on an ambitious plan that includes new and expanded grandstands, new press facilities, a new racing surface and new safety walls, fences and barriers has been ongoing since DIRT MotorSports announced the purchase of the speedway in Barberville, Fla., during the summer.
Delaying the transformation of the facility near Daytona Beach until after the Southern Shoot-Out would have interfered with the 2006 season-opening events in February, therefore the Shoot-Out will be rescheduled for a later date in 2006 that also will give fans and touring teams more time to make plans to attend.
"We are eager to show off to fans in one venue how exciting and competitive all of our series are," said Shane Carson, VP of Race Operations. "Unfortunately, there just wasn't enough time to complete all the work being done to improve the facility and make it more safe for the fans and drivers. We decided the best option was to postpone the Southern Shoot-Out to next year and make certain Volusia was ready to go when we open the 2006 season there in February."
DIRT MotorSports regrets any inconvenience the cancellation causes fans who made preparations to attend, but looks forward to opening the 2006 season at Volusia and bringing fans the Southern Shoot-Out later next year.
For further information on DIRT or this press release contact Terri Metzger at 1-877-5RACING (1-877-572-2464) Ext. 113, email tmetzger@dirtmotorsports.com or visit us online at http://www.dirtmotorsports.com/.
AUTOPHILE: NOW IN STORE AND COMING SOON!
Hi Everyone!
Summer s almost over and new products are starting to arrive...
Just in today!
In Books:
Ferrari F430 Supercar, automobilia
Mercedes Benz & Mille Milglia, Curami
Formula 1 in Camera 1980-89, Schlegelmilch
Sport & Prototypes Porsche Le Mans 1966 1971, Hurel
ferrari by Mailander, Karl Ludvigsen
Ken Miles, Evans
McLaren Memories, Young
Rubens Barrichello, Tremayne
Coming soon:
Open Roads & Front engines, World Championship sports car racing in photographs, 1953-1961, Wimpffen
Motor Racing Reflections of a lost Era, Carter
Ayrton Senna, the Team Lotus Years, Tipler
In Models:
First shipment of 1/18th scale CMC Maserati 250Fs will be in soon, don t miss out, reserve your model now, this should be the model of the year!
Best Wishes
Trish, Tom, Brian – Autophile
Summer s almost over and new products are starting to arrive...
Just in today!
In Books:
Ferrari F430 Supercar, automobilia
Mercedes Benz & Mille Milglia, Curami
Formula 1 in Camera 1980-89, Schlegelmilch
Sport & Prototypes Porsche Le Mans 1966 1971, Hurel
ferrari by Mailander, Karl Ludvigsen
Ken Miles, Evans
McLaren Memories, Young
Rubens Barrichello, Tremayne
Coming soon:
Open Roads & Front engines, World Championship sports car racing in photographs, 1953-1961, Wimpffen
Motor Racing Reflections of a lost Era, Carter
Ayrton Senna, the Team Lotus Years, Tipler
In Models:
First shipment of 1/18th scale CMC Maserati 250Fs will be in soon, don t miss out, reserve your model now, this should be the model of the year!
Best Wishes
Trish, Tom, Brian – Autophile
Breakage woes stop Micks and PowerWater Ford during Great Canadian Race Weekend
By Bruce F. MehlenbacherSeptember 5, 2005, London, ON – PowerWater driver Kerry Micks finished a disappointing 16th position in the Micks Motorsports 2005 Ford in London last weekend at the CASCAR Super Series APC 300 Great Canadian Race Weekend at Delaware Speedway.
“The PowerWater Ford was good today before having suspension problems late in the race, stated Kerry Micks. “We started in third on the second row quickly moved into second at the start of the race. There is no question that we had a top-three car. It was just one of those days.”
Peter Gibbons won the APC 300 Great Canadian Race followed by Don Thomson Jr. and Jeff Lapcevich in third.
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 next CASCAR Super Series race will take place Saturday, September 10 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/.
CASCAR ON TV: Watch a CASCAR on SPORTSNET, for information regarding initial airings and replays of Super Series races on SPORTSNET, check your local listings or visit www.cascar.ca/schedule/tv_schedule.html.
Podium finish for Jeff Lapcevich at Delaware Speedway
By Bruce F. MehlenbacherSeptember 5, 2005, London, ON - Fastline Motorsports team driver Jeff Lapcevich finished an impressive third at the APC 300 Great Canadian Race Weekend in the CASCAR Super Series, with his Tim Hortons - EMCEA Transport Fastline Motorsports Chevrolet Monte Carlo at Delaware Speedway in London last weekend.
“Whenever you can finish on the podium at a CASCAR Super Series race at Delaware you’ve had a great day,” said Jeff Lapcevich. “Perseverance was the name of game, and although we had a few setbacks, we were able to get right back on track. I’m very happy. The #23 Tim Hortons - EMCEA Transport team had good race.”
Peter Gibbons won the APC 300 Great Canadian Race followed by Don Thomson Jr. and Jeff Lapcevich in third.
Jim Lapcevich finished a disappointing 29th after wrecking half-way into the race.
“The EMCEA Transport - Tim Hortons Chevrolet was running in top 10 most of the day,” said Jim Lapcevich. “The #25 team was right on its game, and our first pit stop was really rocket fast. It enabled us to get out front of a bunch of the competition but that’s where it all ended.”
The next CASCAR Super Series race will take place Saturday, September 10 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/.
CASCAR ON TV: Watch a CASCAR on SPORTSNET, for information regarding initial airings and replays of Super Series races on SPORTSNET, check your local listings or visit www.cascar.ca/schedule/tv_schedule.html.
CANADIAN SPRINT CAR NATIONALS AT OHSWEKEN TO BE 2006 CLEAN-O WORLD CHALLENGE QUALIFIER
KNOXVILLE, IOWA (September 8, 2005) - The Knoxville Raceway is proud to announce that the Canadian Sprint Car Nationals, to be held on Saturday, September 17, at the Ohsweken Speedway in Ohsweken, Ontario, Canada, will kick-off the series of 2006 Clean-O World Challenge international qualifiers.
The US$5,000-to-win event will qualify Australians, Canadians and New Zealanders for the August 11, 2006, international winged 410-cubic-inch sprint car invitational to be held at Knoxville Raceway during the 46th annual Knoxville Nationals, presented by the Midwest Ford Dealers. Joining Ohsweken in holding 2006 Clean-O World Challenge qualifiers will be the Bay Park and Ruapuna speedways on the north and south islands of New Zealand, respectively, the Sungold Stadium at the Premier Speedway in Australia, and the Budweiser Motorsports Park in western Canada.
According to Knoxville director of racing Ralph “Cappy” Capitani, “We feel that we have established a great relationship with Glenn Styres at Ohsweken, and we are very excited to be partnering with him again on our Clean-O World Challenge qualifying program. Last month we had record Canadian participation in our World Challenge with Ryan Coniam, Jack Pillon, and Cody Geldart. Next year we’d like to double that amount with the support of the Ohsweken Speedway and Rollie Nash’s Bud Park in Edmonton!”
Americans can only qualify for the $10,000-to-win 2006 Clean-O World Challenge by competing at one of three races in Australia and New Zealand. In a new twist for ’06, all international drivers from Australia, Canada, and New Zealand that enter and compete in the 2006 Knoxville Nationals, August 9-12, will be eligible to compete in the 20-lap race. However, only those drivers that run one of the five qualifiers at Ohsweken, Ruapuna, Bay Park, Premier, or Bud Park will be allowed to start in the ‘top sixteen’ fully-inverted portion of the Clean-O World Challenge grid. All others that are eligible for the World Challenge will start straight-up, based on qualifying night points, beginning in position seventeen.
Fleet Buying Group is a master purchaser and distributor of automotive and fleet products including Clean-O, a highly-concentrated, effective and environmentally friendly cleaner, and they are centrally located in Kansas City, Mo., to ship throughout the United States and Canada. Fleet Buying Group works with a variety of companies who perform preventative maintenance on their vehicles.
For more information on the Fleet Buying Group, individuals are encouraged to visit www.fleetbuyinggroup.com on the internet.
The US$5,000-to-win event will qualify Australians, Canadians and New Zealanders for the August 11, 2006, international winged 410-cubic-inch sprint car invitational to be held at Knoxville Raceway during the 46th annual Knoxville Nationals, presented by the Midwest Ford Dealers. Joining Ohsweken in holding 2006 Clean-O World Challenge qualifiers will be the Bay Park and Ruapuna speedways on the north and south islands of New Zealand, respectively, the Sungold Stadium at the Premier Speedway in Australia, and the Budweiser Motorsports Park in western Canada.
According to Knoxville director of racing Ralph “Cappy” Capitani, “We feel that we have established a great relationship with Glenn Styres at Ohsweken, and we are very excited to be partnering with him again on our Clean-O World Challenge qualifying program. Last month we had record Canadian participation in our World Challenge with Ryan Coniam, Jack Pillon, and Cody Geldart. Next year we’d like to double that amount with the support of the Ohsweken Speedway and Rollie Nash’s Bud Park in Edmonton!”
Americans can only qualify for the $10,000-to-win 2006 Clean-O World Challenge by competing at one of three races in Australia and New Zealand. In a new twist for ’06, all international drivers from Australia, Canada, and New Zealand that enter and compete in the 2006 Knoxville Nationals, August 9-12, will be eligible to compete in the 20-lap race. However, only those drivers that run one of the five qualifiers at Ohsweken, Ruapuna, Bay Park, Premier, or Bud Park will be allowed to start in the ‘top sixteen’ fully-inverted portion of the Clean-O World Challenge grid. All others that are eligible for the World Challenge will start straight-up, based on qualifying night points, beginning in position seventeen.
Fleet Buying Group is a master purchaser and distributor of automotive and fleet products including Clean-O, a highly-concentrated, effective and environmentally friendly cleaner, and they are centrally located in Kansas City, Mo., to ship throughout the United States and Canada. Fleet Buying Group works with a variety of companies who perform preventative maintenance on their vehicles.
For more information on the Fleet Buying Group, individuals are encouraged to visit www.fleetbuyinggroup.com on the internet.
Thursday, September 08, 2005
Consistency at Kawartha and Flamboro Pays off for Gary as he Moves to 6th in WWS and Flamboro Points: Currently Top Rookie for 2005
Courtesy Gary/Nora ElliottSeries Race #17
Kawartha Speedway
Sept 2nd 2005
As the season heads into the final stretch, consistency is very important to maintain the goals accomplished to this point. In the WWS Ontario race series, Gary and his team had set sights on a top 20 finish. As the season progressed, those goals were changed to a top 10 finish. A driver can gain WWS points by racing at any race that is a sanctioned event.
On Friday night the team headed to Kawartha Speedway in hopes of making some ground in the effort to brake into the top 10. After the warm ups it was clear the car ran much better than the first appearance on June 10th. Starting pole in the 2nd tough competition by the regular runners moved the Quaker State Dodge to 3rd, but Gary quickly got in behind the top 2 and ran with them for the next 8 laps. On lap 9 the 4th and 5th place cars got by putting Gary 5th at the finish line.
Some chassis changes were made for the feature including one new tire on the right front. Starting 10th the field of 16 cars ran tight for the first 6 laps. Gary had moved to 7th and passed 2 more cars on the back chute. However a caution came out allowing those cars to get their spots back.
The race ran green for the next 20 laps and though running much stronger it looked like 8th would be the best for this night. Another caution with 4 to go brought the cars close together and on the final 3 laps another spot was gained. Gary crossed the finish line in 7th and gained some precious WWS points.
Series Race #18
Flamboro Speedway
Sept 3rd 2005
Heat Win #7 for 2005
There was little work to do after Kawartha allowing the team to be ready in good time for Flamboro. In the heats Gary finished 4th and 1st. The 2nd heat win came with David on the bumper of his dad for the entire race. After qualifying, where David earned top spot, the inversion put Gary 12th on the starting grid.
It was a very competitive charge throughout the race. Many drivers trying to improve their points as the season comes to a close. Gary moved to 5th with 6 laps remaining. On the restart he tried going outside David but could not get the grip to make the pass. While he tried Paul Howse moved to the inside and tried squeezing into 5th place. Another caution came out and this time Gary tried to get down quickly behind David but the aggressive move was costly as the nose of #8 Howse caught the black #36 sending Gary flying through the infield.
The final 6 laps proved positive with Gary closing the feature in 8th place. After the race Paul Howse apologized, however Gary let him know it wasn’t necessary because he tried for an opening that wasn’t there. Gary himself had to let #45 Dave Bennett know that he too was sorry for hitting Dave during the last 6 lap charge when the 2 cars made contact.
By the end of the night all was well and the boys would be back at it next Saturday. There are 2 Flamboro points races remaining. September 10th and September 24th, these races also count for WWS to which there are 7 races remaining including the two Flamboro events.
The season will close with some big races including a Triple 50 at Kawartha on September 16th, a 100 lapper at Flamboro on October 2nd and a 105 lap race at Peterborough on October 9th. By then everyone should be tired.
SEASON FINALE SATURDAY AT SPEEDWORLD; CHAMPIONS WILL BE CROWNED
Joan Roué, Scotia Speedworld & CARQUEST Pro Stock TourHALIFAX, NS (2005 September 7) - The CARQUEST Pro Stock Tour will crown its 2005 champion this Saturday at Scotia Speedworld. The Parts For Trucks 200, an extended-length race with more twists than the Mississippi River, will decide who gets what from the $75,000 on the line at the event.
Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame Class of 2005 member Rollie MacDonald (Pictou) leads the charge for the championship by a mere 32-points over inaugural ser ies champion Wayne Smith (Halifax); MacDonald at 1957, Smith at 1887. 2004 series champ Shawn Tucker (Fredericton, NB) sits third at 1887. EIT Race Radio rookie of the year contender Shawn Turple (Enfield) is fourth at 1864 and Gordie Ryan (Wellington) is fifth at 1837.
Mathematically, any of these drivers, and a few more, could win the championship; realistically it will probably be a two-horse race between MacDonald and Smith.
According to the numbers, in order for Tucker to get his second championship, he would need to win the race and lead the most laps with MacDonald finishing 30th or worse and Smith finishing 14th or worse.
In order for Smith to win his second championship he would need to win the race and lead the most laps with MacDonald finishing 12th or worse.
If MacDonald finishes 12th or better, he'll clinch the title no matter what anyone else does. Considering MacDonald is the series only repeat winner with three wins in 10 races thus far this year, one would think he'd feel okay about his chances. Not really; his nemesis this year has been the two races at Scotia Speedworld - both resulting in 13th-place finishes.
"It's like this: Whatever happens Saturday, happens," said MacDonald. "We did a lot more this year than we have for a long time, probably my best year since the early 90s. At the start of the season we said we'd do four races and if we were competitive, we'd keep going. So we've far exceded our expectations and we've had a lot of fun doing it. Anything we get now is a bonus."
MacDonald added that the race format, two 100-lap segments with a redraw among the top 10 in the running order at the end of lap 100, adds another element of uncertainty.
"We'd feel better about our chances if it was a straight 100-lap race - less can go wrong."
Smith is entering this race like he has every other race this year.
"We're going there to do the best we can do and see what happens," said Smith. "The best man will win, I guess, not to take anything away from Rollie - he's had a good year."
Besides the prestige of being the CARQUEST Pro Stock Tour champion, the racer that wins the title gets a huge trophy and a huge cheque - for $10,000. Second-place pays $5,000.
In the EIT Race Radio Rookie of the Year battle, Turple leads Brad Mann (Campbellton, NB) by 61 points, which equates to 32 positions in the finishing order, assuming neither driver scores bonus points, of which five are awarded any driver that leads a lap, and another five to the driver that leds the most laps.
Numerous other season-long awards will also be decided this Saturday, with final payouts at the series awards banquet October 29.
Besides all of the championship excitement on Saturday someone will also visit The Parts For Trucks 200 Victory Lane, the longest and richest series race of the year. 2004 CARQUEST Tour race winners John Flemming, Donald Chisholm, Kent Livingston and Kent Vincent are still seeking a win this year, as are many others; 32 teams are expected to enter The Parts For Trucks 200.
Besides CARQUEST Pro Stock Tour racing, fans attending The Parts For Trucks 200 will also be treated to championship races for the Sportsman Super Series and the Legends Tour.
The Saturday's event is the final race for this year at Scotia Speedworld.
The grandstand gates will open at 3 p.m.; the Motor Mart Time Trials go at 5:10 and racing starts at 6 p.m.
Grandstand admission is just $25 for adults, $5 for youth from 8 to 15, and children 7 and under are admitted free. Pit admission is $30 and restricted to those 16 and older. HST is included in all admission prices.
Advance grandstand tickets are now available for The Parts For Trucks 200 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.
DriveLine Radio’s Super Human Show and Shine is on!
Courtesy John BordignonGot 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! Sunday September 11th from 11am 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.
What would it take to get Rossi in a Ferrari F1 car? How about 80 million Euros…
Speedracer: Here’s a new twist on the ever persistent Rossi-to-Ferrari rumours...At least he has a super license now…And at 80 million euros he’s a fraction of the cost of one Herr Schumacher…Courtesy www.cyclenews.com
Valentino Rossi is headed to Formula One in 2007 after his one-year contract with Yamaha expires at the end of 2006.
That’s the conclusion drawn from published interviews with key Ferrari personnel at last weekend’s Italian Grand Prix at Monza.
Ross Brawn, Ferrari’s technical director, told the Associated Press that the Gauloises Yamaha rider could test as often as once a month beginning this winter. Rossi has already tested the Ferrari three times at the company’s test track in Fiorano.
"He is already as quick as a F-1 driver in the slow corners," Brawn told the AP on Friday.
Ferrari chairman Luca di Montezemolo told Reuters that Rossi’s signing would be with the intent to win, not to capitalize on his immense popularity in Italy and much of Europe.
"He is not obliged to race in F1,” di Montezemolo said. “If he decides to, it is because he decides he is ready to win. He knows that he must do some tests and a champion like him goes into Formula One if he chooses to do so, if he feels he is going there to win. Neither he nor we have a pistol to our heads. If something comes of it, it will above all be his decision. If Ferrari and Rossi come together, it will be to win the world championship and not to put on a show that we do not need," di Montezemolo told Reuters.
The last motorcycle world champion to jump to Ferrari was Britain’s John Surtees. Surtees won seven world championships before capturing the 1964 F-1 crown for Ferrari.
La Repubblica, an Italian daily newspaper, last week published an unsourced report that Rossi will be offered a three-year contract worth 80 million Euros, nearly $100 million.
Kimi Raikkonen, McLaren’s current F-1 driver, would be his teammate, the paper wrote.
American Sprint Car Series to Acquire SOD
Lonnie Wheatley, TULSA, Okla. (September 7, 2005) – The Michigan-based Sprints on Dirt series will join the American Sprint Car Series fold in 2006, as it was announced today that the Tulsa-based ASCS is acquiring Sprints on Dirt.
The American Sprint Car Series’ acquisition of SOD will be complete upon the conclusion of the 2005 season. “We’re excited about this,” commented current Sprints on Dirt president Jason Fausey. “Next year will be SOD’s 27th year and we’re enthused about SOD’s future with the American Sprint Car Series.In 2006, the Sprints on Dirt presented by ASCS will join the existing ASCS Southern Tour along with the ASCS Sooner, Gulf South, Rocky Mountain and Midwest Regions. It was also recently announced that the ASCS National Tour will go truly national in 2006.
Founded in 1980, the Sprints on Dirt has sanctioned 360-ci sprint car racing since 1998. In 2005, SOD sanctioned approximately 25 events at 17 different tracks throughout Michigan, Indiana, Ohio and Canada. A majority of SOD events are contested in Michigan.“The Sprints on Dirt series has been strong for years around Michigan and the surrounding area, and we look forward to taking SOD to the next level with ASCS,” commented ASCS president and founder Emmett Hahn.In total, including the O’Reilly ASCS National Tour, the Southern Tour and the Sooner, Gulf South, Rocky Mountain and Midwest Regions, the American Sprint Car Series will sanction nearly 100 nights of racing in 2005 at approximately 50 different racetracks throughout at least 18 different states.
Additional information regarding the American Sprint Car Series is available at www.ascsracing.com.
The American Sprint Car Series’ acquisition of SOD will be complete upon the conclusion of the 2005 season. “We’re excited about this,” commented current Sprints on Dirt president Jason Fausey. “Next year will be SOD’s 27th year and we’re enthused about SOD’s future with the American Sprint Car Series.In 2006, the Sprints on Dirt presented by ASCS will join the existing ASCS Southern Tour along with the ASCS Sooner, Gulf South, Rocky Mountain and Midwest Regions. It was also recently announced that the ASCS National Tour will go truly national in 2006.
Founded in 1980, the Sprints on Dirt has sanctioned 360-ci sprint car racing since 1998. In 2005, SOD sanctioned approximately 25 events at 17 different tracks throughout Michigan, Indiana, Ohio and Canada. A majority of SOD events are contested in Michigan.“The Sprints on Dirt series has been strong for years around Michigan and the surrounding area, and we look forward to taking SOD to the next level with ASCS,” commented ASCS president and founder Emmett Hahn.In total, including the O’Reilly ASCS National Tour, the Southern Tour and the Sooner, Gulf South, Rocky Mountain and Midwest Regions, the American Sprint Car Series will sanction nearly 100 nights of racing in 2005 at approximately 50 different racetracks throughout at least 18 different states.
Additional information regarding the American Sprint Car Series is available at www.ascsracing.com.
CANADIAN SPRINT CAR NATIONALS ADVANCED TICKETS AVAILABLE
Advanced tickets for the Canadian Sprint Car Nationals on September 17th at Ohsweken will be available Friday September 10th at the Ohsweken Speedway main grandstand entrance.
Tickets will be on sale from 5:30pm to 8:00pm. Cost is $25 Canadian ($20 U.S.) for adults with children 6 through 12 at $5.00. Under 6 will be free.
Advance tickets will also be available Friday September 16th at Ohsweken prior to the Southern Ontario Sprints event. The advance ticket booth on Sept 16th will be directly across from the Pit Shack and will be open from 5:30 pm to 7:45 pm.
Ohsweken Speedway Online
http://www.ohswekenspeedway.com
Tickets will be on sale from 5:30pm to 8:00pm. Cost is $25 Canadian ($20 U.S.) for adults with children 6 through 12 at $5.00. Under 6 will be free.
Advance tickets will also be available Friday September 16th at Ohsweken prior to the Southern Ontario Sprints event. The advance ticket booth on Sept 16th will be directly across from the Pit Shack and will be open from 5:30 pm to 7:45 pm.
Ohsweken Speedway Online
http://www.ohswekenspeedway.com
TPR and Jim Porter Motorsports team up for SOS Championships and Canadian Sprint Car Nationals.
After a major blow at Brighton Speedway Park this past weekend to Jim Porter Motorsports, Tim Phillips Racing and Jim Porter Motorsports has joined forces for the Southern Ontario Sprints Championship Night and the Canadian Sprint Car Nationals.
Phillips will be supplying Porter with his Fronczak Racing Engine for the final 2 events at Ohsweken Speedway to help Porter maintain his points with the Southern Ontario Sprints and for the Ohsweken Speedway Sprint Car Track Championship.
Chris Rhynold
HYPER Motorsports Management
www.teamhyper.net
Dirt Track Digest powered by FireonDirt.com
Sprint Racing Editor and Canadian Rep.
www.dirttrackdigest.com
Phillips will be supplying Porter with his Fronczak Racing Engine for the final 2 events at Ohsweken Speedway to help Porter maintain his points with the Southern Ontario Sprints and for the Ohsweken Speedway Sprint Car Track Championship.
Chris Rhynold
HYPER Motorsports Management
www.teamhyper.net
Dirt Track Digest powered by FireonDirt.com
Sprint Racing Editor and Canadian Rep.
www.dirttrackdigest.com
First DNF of season for Tara MacLeod and Central Merchant Services Team at Delaware
By Bruce F. MehlenbacherSeptember 5, 2005, London, ON – 2005 CASCAR PowerWater Rookie of the Year Tara MacLeod, driver of the #37 Central Merchant Services Ford Taurus, suffered her first DNF of the season last weekend at Delaware Speedway in the APC 300 Great Canadian Race Weekend CASCAR Super Series event.
“We had a good race going on the weekend at Delaware in the Central Merchant Services Ford before wrecking,” explained Tara MacLeod. “We were able to stay on the lead lap most of the day and that says a lot for our team. Now that we’ve clinched the PowerWater Rookie of the Year our goal is for good finishes in the final races.”
Peter Gibbons won the APC 300 Great Canadian Race followed by Don Thomson Jr. and Jeff Lapcevich in third.
“It’s unfortunate that the DNF cost us a position in the point standings,” added MacLeod. “We’ll do our best to pick that back up at Cayuga this weekend.”
MacLeod leads the PowerWater CASCAR Super Series Rookie of the year standings, and is 14th in the 2005 CASCAR Super Series Points Championship.
The next CASCAR Super Series race will take place Saturday, September 10 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/.
CASCAR ON TV: Watch CASCAR on SPORTSNET, for information regarding initial airings and replays of Super Series races on SPORTSNET, check your local listings or visit www.cascar.ca/schedule/tv_schedule.html.
NASCAR finalizing CASCAR takeover!!
NASCAR finalizing CASCAR takeover!!
TSN.ca Staff
9/7/2005 10:46:15 AM
NASCAR is poised to officially take over control of the CASCAR series, opening the way for Canadian drivers to eventually compete in the Nextel Cup Series.
"It's not 'if,' it's 'when,' " sources tell the London Free Press about the negotiations which have been going on for a year and a half.
NASCAR's director of racing development in Canada, Richard Buck, says he recommended to the NASCAR board of directors last month that they purchase the Canadian-based stock car series.
"My reports have been very favourable and they have been received very favourably," Buck tells the Free Press. "Basically the process is moving along."
"Although not everything has been put to bed, it's certainly looking very positive," said CASCAR president Tony Novotny, who founded the series in 1981.
"NASCAR getting involved in Canada is going to elevate motorsports in this country. There'll be an upswing in terms of better facilities because NASCAR has a name to uphold. The rewards are going to be a lot greater, however the demands are also going to be there."
NASCAR, which has been racing in Canada for the last two years under the Dodge Weekly Series, is reportedly interested in staging a Busch or Craftsman Truck race, possibly as early as next year in Canada. The ultimate goal is to attract a Nextel Cup race north of the border.
That won't happen in 2006 as the series unveiled its calendar on Tuesday and it does not include any new races. NASCAR has yet to confirm its 2006 Busch or Craftsman Series schedules.
CASCAR driver D.J. Kennington says NASCAR's purchase of CASCAR will certainly open a lot of doors for drivers and teams.
"Sponsorship-wise, it's going to get bigger and when that gets bigger, the whole series gets bigger," he tells the Free Press.
"There's going to be corporate people who want to get involved just because of the NASCAR name and you get so much marketing ability with that name."
"Hopefully one day we'll have a couple of us down there (driving)."
---------------------------------------------------
This is what was predicted a long time ago.
Greasemonkey.
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY: Saturday Night Race Event
Courtesy Loretta Thiering
September 7, 2005 – Western Canada's ONLY Paved 1/4 mile oval hosts an exciting night of racing every Saturday in September. Only 2 more events this year for the Lilydale NASCAR Dodge Weekly Racing Series Super Late Models. #33 Jeremy Lapainis leads the points with #07 Greg Moir very close behind. Jeremy is currently 14th in the NASCAR Region 2 Division, competing with other NASCAR racers throughout the U.S. and Eastern Canada.
In the K-Rock Thunder Car Division Rookie Thunder Car Racer #99 Lee Krause leads #10 Racer Roy Wallace. This weekend the Thunder Cars battle it out with a 100 Lap Special Event!
In the U-Pull-It Claimer Car Division #50 Marc Bouchard holds a strong lead over #7 Mike Elhard, both from Edmonton.
On Saturday, September 10th IMCA Modified Racers from all over Western Canada will be at Edmonton Int'l Raceway to compete in the 50 Lap Feature Event - the Wolff Pack Run with over $1500 to win for first place!
Edmonton Int'l Raceway is the only NASCAR Sanctioned Race Track in Western Canada and 1 of only 3 in all of Canada to be sanctioned with this giant stock car racing program.
Gates open at 4 pm on Saturday, September 10th and Racing starts right at 6:30 pm. To reach Edmonton Int'l Raceway - head south on Hwy 2 past Leduc, take the Hwy 2A exit to WETASKIWIN, approximately 20 minutes.
Saturday, September 24th - FASTER PASTOR RACE - a speed event for those of the cloth..... more information to come!
For more information visit www.edmontonraceway.com.
September 7, 2005 – Western Canada's ONLY Paved 1/4 mile oval hosts an exciting night of racing every Saturday in September. Only 2 more events this year for the Lilydale NASCAR Dodge Weekly Racing Series Super Late Models. #33 Jeremy Lapainis leads the points with #07 Greg Moir very close behind. Jeremy is currently 14th in the NASCAR Region 2 Division, competing with other NASCAR racers throughout the U.S. and Eastern Canada.
In the K-Rock Thunder Car Division Rookie Thunder Car Racer #99 Lee Krause leads #10 Racer Roy Wallace. This weekend the Thunder Cars battle it out with a 100 Lap Special Event!
In the U-Pull-It Claimer Car Division #50 Marc Bouchard holds a strong lead over #7 Mike Elhard, both from Edmonton.
On Saturday, September 10th IMCA Modified Racers from all over Western Canada will be at Edmonton Int'l Raceway to compete in the 50 Lap Feature Event - the Wolff Pack Run with over $1500 to win for first place!
Edmonton Int'l Raceway is the only NASCAR Sanctioned Race Track in Western Canada and 1 of only 3 in all of Canada to be sanctioned with this giant stock car racing program.
Gates open at 4 pm on Saturday, September 10th and Racing starts right at 6:30 pm. To reach Edmonton Int'l Raceway - head south on Hwy 2 past Leduc, take the Hwy 2A exit to WETASKIWIN, approximately 20 minutes.
Saturday, September 24th - FASTER PASTOR RACE - a speed event for those of the cloth..... more information to come!
For more information visit www.edmontonraceway.com.
ALL SPOTS FILLED FOR FOURTH ANNUAL SPIRIT OF AMERICA 500 BLOOD DRIVE AT MIS ON SEPTEMBER 11: DONORS NEEDED TO HELP HURRICANE KATRINA VICTIMS
ATTENTION - ATTENTION - ATTENTION - ATTENTION - ATTENTION
Courtesy Bill Janitz, Michigan International Speedway, Director of Public Relations
BROOKLYN, Mich. – For the fourth year in-a-row, Michigan International Speedway will put volunteer blood donors on the fast track for the largest single-day blood drive in the State of Michigan. With a record amount of appointments, all spots for the 2005 event have now been filled.
The race-themed blood drive features a commemorative event credential, shirt, hat and pin, lunch, and a tour of the MIS facilities, along with gifts from various sponsors and an opportunity for a discounted Richard Petty Driving Experience ride-along.
In 2004, the blood drive held claim to the largest blood drive in the country on September 11, with a record-shattering 535 units of blood taken during the 2004 event.
The event name has been changed for 2005 from the Spirit of America 400 to 500 to note the goal of again collecting over 500 units of blood. The 10-hour blood drive is slated for Sunday, September 11, from 8:30- A.M. to 6:15 P.M., at MIS.
Along with the message of remembering and honoring the victims and heroes of September 11, this year’s event takes on additional importance in the wake of Hurricane Katrina which ravaged the Gulf Coast of the United States last week.
“The success of the event has really come from the effort of those who have given blood since it started. We continue to be overwhelmed by how the event has grown through the generosity of so many,” said MIS President Brett Shelton. “While we will continue to remember those that were lost on September 11, 2001 during this event, Hurricane Katrina has shown us how important it is to give back to great organizations such as the American Red Cross, whether it’s giving the gift of blood, or monetary donations to help other Americans in need.”
With recent events reminding us of the importance of being prepared, the Spirit of America blood drive will offer the presenting blood donors and guests an opportunity to learn about disaster preparedness. Michigan International Speedway will also offer donors an opportunity to purchase a commemorative pin for $5.00 with all proceeds going to the Hurricane Katrina Relief effort.
In addition to the opportunity for donors to learn more about disaster preparedness and donate money to the Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief fund, donors will also have a chance to take a ride-along at speed in a Richard Petty Driving Experience stock car around the 2-mile MIS oval. The special donor price for the ride will be $80, with $20 going directly to the American Red Cross Hurricane Katrina Relief effort.
Sponsors for the Fourth Annual Spirit of America 500 include: Americrown, Country Fresh, C&L Sanitation, Inc., ProMedica Health System, Addison Graphic Solutions, AAA of Michigan, Pepsi, Brooklyn-Irish Hills Chamber of Commerce, Meijer, Indy Racing League, Breadsmith, DDM Marketing and Communications, Fox-47, Richard Petty Driving Experience, Hickory Farms, NASCAR, Kodak and Advance America.
Media Note: Media interested in covering the Spirit of America 400 can visit MIS anytime between 8:30 A.M. and 6:15 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 11. Media must use the main entrance off of U.S. 12 and follow the signs to the right leading to the MIS entertainment building.
Please call MIS Director of Public Relations, Bill Janitz at 517-592-1272 or Kelly Powell at the American Red Cross at 1-800-968-4283 ext 392 with any further questions or details on covering the event.
Courtesy Bill Janitz, Michigan International Speedway, Director of Public Relations
BROOKLYN, Mich. – For the fourth year in-a-row, Michigan International Speedway will put volunteer blood donors on the fast track for the largest single-day blood drive in the State of Michigan. With a record amount of appointments, all spots for the 2005 event have now been filled.
The race-themed blood drive features a commemorative event credential, shirt, hat and pin, lunch, and a tour of the MIS facilities, along with gifts from various sponsors and an opportunity for a discounted Richard Petty Driving Experience ride-along.
In 2004, the blood drive held claim to the largest blood drive in the country on September 11, with a record-shattering 535 units of blood taken during the 2004 event.
The event name has been changed for 2005 from the Spirit of America 400 to 500 to note the goal of again collecting over 500 units of blood. The 10-hour blood drive is slated for Sunday, September 11, from 8:30- A.M. to 6:15 P.M., at MIS.
Along with the message of remembering and honoring the victims and heroes of September 11, this year’s event takes on additional importance in the wake of Hurricane Katrina which ravaged the Gulf Coast of the United States last week.
“The success of the event has really come from the effort of those who have given blood since it started. We continue to be overwhelmed by how the event has grown through the generosity of so many,” said MIS President Brett Shelton. “While we will continue to remember those that were lost on September 11, 2001 during this event, Hurricane Katrina has shown us how important it is to give back to great organizations such as the American Red Cross, whether it’s giving the gift of blood, or monetary donations to help other Americans in need.”
With recent events reminding us of the importance of being prepared, the Spirit of America blood drive will offer the presenting blood donors and guests an opportunity to learn about disaster preparedness. Michigan International Speedway will also offer donors an opportunity to purchase a commemorative pin for $5.00 with all proceeds going to the Hurricane Katrina Relief effort.
In addition to the opportunity for donors to learn more about disaster preparedness and donate money to the Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief fund, donors will also have a chance to take a ride-along at speed in a Richard Petty Driving Experience stock car around the 2-mile MIS oval. The special donor price for the ride will be $80, with $20 going directly to the American Red Cross Hurricane Katrina Relief effort.
Sponsors for the Fourth Annual Spirit of America 500 include: Americrown, Country Fresh, C&L Sanitation, Inc., ProMedica Health System, Addison Graphic Solutions, AAA of Michigan, Pepsi, Brooklyn-Irish Hills Chamber of Commerce, Meijer, Indy Racing League, Breadsmith, DDM Marketing and Communications, Fox-47, Richard Petty Driving Experience, Hickory Farms, NASCAR, Kodak and Advance America.
Media Note: Media interested in covering the Spirit of America 400 can visit MIS anytime between 8:30 A.M. and 6:15 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 11. Media must use the main entrance off of U.S. 12 and follow the signs to the right leading to the MIS entertainment building.
Please call MIS Director of Public Relations, Bill Janitz at 517-592-1272 or Kelly Powell at the American Red Cross at 1-800-968-4283 ext 392 with any further questions or details on covering the event.
Compass360/Racing Welcomes New Driver to the Fold
Courtesy Compass360/Racing
September 7th, 2005 – Two-time Rolex race winner David Sterenberg will join Compass360/Racing's lead driver Karl Thomson for the Twin 200's at Phoenix International Raceway this coming weekend.
"I've watched this team all year, and they just keep getting better," said Sterenberg. "Their run at the front of the pack at Mid Ohio was amazing and I want to help them get their first podium at PIR."
Sterenberg, who lives in Scottsdale, AZ, won twice in Rolex LMPII with Archangel Motorsports in 2001, and won a number of races in the Star Mazda series. "With a very tight schedule for the weekend, local track knowledge should play an integral role in getting the car set-up right," said Thomson. "David's got a ton of seat time, and we're counting on him to be our unfair advantage."
Compass360/Racing will be fielding a single entry for the Phoenix race, after the team's other car was badly damaged during practice at Mid Ohio a few weeks ago. "We will be back to two cars for the season-ending race at VIR in October, but we simply didn't have enough time to get the other car ready between Mid Ohio and Phoenix," said crew chief Ian McQuillan. "After PIR, we'll have nearly a month to get the other BMW Z3 Coupe built, which will also allow us some time for testing and set-up."
Information on the team is available at http://www.compass360.com/racing.
September 7th, 2005 – Two-time Rolex race winner David Sterenberg will join Compass360/Racing's lead driver Karl Thomson for the Twin 200's at Phoenix International Raceway this coming weekend.
"I've watched this team all year, and they just keep getting better," said Sterenberg. "Their run at the front of the pack at Mid Ohio was amazing and I want to help them get their first podium at PIR."
Sterenberg, who lives in Scottsdale, AZ, won twice in Rolex LMPII with Archangel Motorsports in 2001, and won a number of races in the Star Mazda series. "With a very tight schedule for the weekend, local track knowledge should play an integral role in getting the car set-up right," said Thomson. "David's got a ton of seat time, and we're counting on him to be our unfair advantage."
Compass360/Racing will be fielding a single entry for the Phoenix race, after the team's other car was badly damaged during practice at Mid Ohio a few weeks ago. "We will be back to two cars for the season-ending race at VIR in October, but we simply didn't have enough time to get the other car ready between Mid Ohio and Phoenix," said crew chief Ian McQuillan. "After PIR, we'll have nearly a month to get the other BMW Z3 Coupe built, which will also allow us some time for testing and set-up."
Information on the team is available at http://www.compass360.com/racing.
Whitlock denied perfect day at Delaware Speedway: “I just wish we could try that again!”
By Greg MacPherson, Inside Track
Wyoming, ON, Sep 06 2005: A perfect day to a CASCAR Super Series driver is qualifying fastest, leading most laps – and winning. But it’s that last part that has always evaded Petrolia’s David Whitlock, who was once again deprived of the victor’s spoils in the closing laps of Sunday’s annual classic: the APC 300.
“This Labour Day race at Delaware Speedway is like the Charlotte 600 is to the NASCAR teams; it’s the one we all want to win” said the three-time Champion who wants badly to add this one to his win column. “And for us it’s our home track. This team works so hard and we’ve been so close so many times; we’d really like a win here.”
Starting from the pole position, Whitlock’s #39 Avenue Motor Works / NMT Dodge Charger developed a commanding lead for the first 73 laps. He reported to crew chief Warren Jones that ‘… the car is good – I’m just clicking off the laps…’ He pitted on lap 126 and again on lap 132 and started his march to the front again from 21st spot. By lap 185 Whitlock was 4th, by 217 he was 3rd and on lap 248, he had the lead once again. But the fateful final caution emerged at lap 290, and per CASCAR rules, the final five laps must be caution free, and the restart must be single file for lead lap cars only.
“When you have the Canadian Tire car behind you in a situation like this – it’s tense” recounts Whitlock. “You know he’s won this race five times already – and you’ve won no times. You think about the times you’ve won other races from that position; you try to do everything just right at just the right time. There are no lapped cars there now – it’s just the two of you, and you’re the sitting duck. I thought I had that bottom groove shut but I must have spun the tires a bit while shifting into 4th just at the get-go… it wiggled a bit, I burped it and Peter must have had enough run on me already… there he was beside me – and the rest is history now. Gib’s one of the best in the business; I just wish we could try that again…”
DJ Kennington followed Gibbons to take second but two laps later Whitlock was back in 2nd trying to chase down Gibbons. “I knew I could pass him if I could get to him, but I over-drove the last turn three, slid a way high and several more cars got passed us” said the very dejected Whitlock, who finished in 8th.
Next CASCAR Super Series race: Cayuga 200 Speedway will host the rescheduled August event on Saturday Sep 10th. For complete agenda of activities and TV broadcast times, see http://www.cascar.ca/
Dilley’s strong run cut short at Delaware Speedway: Dodge Charger driver ran second until losing power
By Greg MacPherson, Inside Track
LONDON, ON – With two races to go on the 2005 CASCAR Super Series schedule, Dodge / Mobil 1 / PowerWater / Exide Dodge Charger driver Mark Dilley is faced with the dilemma of finding a way to get to the lead in those races, without first having to be in second place.
On Sunday afternoon at Delaware Speedway, the Barrie, ON racer once again experienced trouble while running second. Dilley’s #9 Dodge started fifth in the 32-car field after a solid qualifying effort and was cruising comfortably behind his Whitlock Motorsports teammate Dave Whitlock on lap 66 of the 300-lap Great Canadian Race at the London, ON-area half-mile oval when he was forced to the pits by a loss of power.
“The car was really fast and we were just happy to be running second behind Dave [Whitlock] in the early part of the race,” said Dilley, who soldiered on to a 19th-place finish in the final results. “We weren’t using up the car at all and we were cruising close to the lead. But it looks like we broke some rocker arms in the engine. We were really feeling good about the race until then.”
Dilley continued, “It’s frustrating because we’ve had trouble while running second a few times this season. I just need to figure out a way to jump from third to first and avoid being in second place altogether, because it’s just been bad luck for us to be there.”
Following 10 events, Dilley’s #9 Dodge Charger is seventh in the Super Series points chase, with two races remaining.
LOOKING AHEAD:
The consummate racer, Dilley quickly put the frustrations of Delaware behind him and turned his attention to next weekend’s race at Cayuga Speedway. The event was scheduled for earlier in the season, but was postponed by rain to this Saturday night (Sept. 10).
At this point, the Dodge / PowerWater / Mobil 1 / Exide / Dodge Charger driver is looking to finish strong and begin preparations for next season. “We’re going to get the car fixed up and be ready to go hard at Cayuga. We’re looking to finish strong. There’s no reason we shouldn’t. We want to get a couple of good finishes to end the season and look ahead to 2006.”
RACE NOTES:
Peter Gibbons won the Great Canadian 300 at Delaware for the sixth time in his career on Sunday afternoon. The veteran racer overcame brake trouble en route to the victory in front of a huge Labour Day crowd at the half-mile Delaware oval.
Second-place went to Super Series points leader Don Thomson Jr. Jeff Lapcevich earned the final podium position.
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/
Hankook Championship: eagerly awaited penultimate event in Sanair
By Dominic St-Jean
Montreal, September 7, 2005 – The fight intensifies as Auto-Quebec Federation Hankook Championship drivers start the last leg towards the double-header season finale at the Mont-Tremblant Circuit at the end of September. Once again, more than 60 cars will take to the Sanair track in Ste-Pie-de-Bagot this Saturday. After a month off, everybody is eager to go racing once again.
“We have an exciting race day ahead of us in Sanair with all classes still in contention, and two with less than ten points between the first and second place drivers, comments series promoter Dominic St-Jean. We will also finish the May GTO/GTU race that was postponed due to extreme weather. Track activities will start at 9:30 am, and we’re expecting great participation and lots of action.”
Touring Hankook:
The Touring class is the tightest this season, with only thirteen points between leader Jocelyn Hébert (Acura Integra) from St-Gregoire and fourth place Bobby Hamel (BMW 328i) from Pintendre. Hamel’s DNF in Trois-Rivieres cost him first place in the championship, a situation he’ll be hard pressed to fix. Between them, Montreal driver Yves Bédard (VW Golf GTI) is second and Kirkland’s Jacques Gravel (Hyundai Tiburon) third. Both have shown consistency and patience, and can aspire to the top billing.
Of note while we are on the topic of consistency, Kensai Racing drivers Valerie Limoges and Travis Walker (on a pair of Acura RSX Type S), respectively fifth and sixth in the standings, still have a shot at the top. Race fans will also pay close attention to the rookie of the year fight, with Stephane Carrier (VW Jetta GTX) leading Vincent Basile (Honda Civic) by only seven points. Musique-Plus video-jockey Babu will be back in action, still a contender in the rookie Championship.
Excellence Chrysler Formula 1600 Cup:
Grand-Mere driver Philippe Gelinas will try to bring his winning streak to three in a row and put some distance between him and second place Olivier Bonnet, of St-Damase. The two drivers are separated by a five-point gap. They will have to watch Marcel Lafontaine, racing in his backyard, who placed second earlier this year in Sanair.
“I’ll try to attack Sanair as if it was any other race, explains Gelinas. With only three races left, everything is left open. I’ve had good moments in Sanair in the past, but it’s harder this year with the 92 Swift compared to last year’s Reynard. I actually hope we’ll hit some rain before the season ends, since I’m usually quick in those conditions.”
GTO/GTU/GT:
Many cars are expected in GTO, GTU and GT classes. In GTO, Ontario’s Malcolm Strachan (Chevrolet Corvette Z06) will try to continue on his winning form and cement his lead against defending champion Fernand Leblanc (Porsche 911 RSR). Leading by fourteen points, he won’t be allowed to relax. “Sanair should be a turning point in the GTO Championship for the Konica-Minolta Corvette. We’re hoping that the tuning done by Agostino Racing Engines should get us closer to the lap record and hopefully the win.”
In GTU class, Normand Robert (Mazda RX7) is back with a revised, more powerful car after missing Trois-Rivieres. He’ll aim to take the lead back from George Moutafis (BMW M3), and break the tie between him and Louis-Sebastien Dubord (VW Golf GTI) at 104 points. Two drivers to watch will be the quick Louis-Charles Cadieux (VW Rabbit) who’ll want to put his Trois-Rivieres problems behind, and returning Mathieu Jarry (Honda Civic).
Finally, Fernand Leblanc (Porsche 911 RSR) will work at strengthening his lead in GT class. Alain Goulet (Porsche 944 Turbo Cup) and Paul Bissonnette (Ford Mustang GT) will be hot on his heels.
About the Hankook Quebec Championship:
The 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.
Montreal, September 7, 2005 – The fight intensifies as Auto-Quebec Federation Hankook Championship drivers start the last leg towards the double-header season finale at the Mont-Tremblant Circuit at the end of September. Once again, more than 60 cars will take to the Sanair track in Ste-Pie-de-Bagot this Saturday. After a month off, everybody is eager to go racing once again.
“We have an exciting race day ahead of us in Sanair with all classes still in contention, and two with less than ten points between the first and second place drivers, comments series promoter Dominic St-Jean. We will also finish the May GTO/GTU race that was postponed due to extreme weather. Track activities will start at 9:30 am, and we’re expecting great participation and lots of action.”
Touring Hankook:
The Touring class is the tightest this season, with only thirteen points between leader Jocelyn Hébert (Acura Integra) from St-Gregoire and fourth place Bobby Hamel (BMW 328i) from Pintendre. Hamel’s DNF in Trois-Rivieres cost him first place in the championship, a situation he’ll be hard pressed to fix. Between them, Montreal driver Yves Bédard (VW Golf GTI) is second and Kirkland’s Jacques Gravel (Hyundai Tiburon) third. Both have shown consistency and patience, and can aspire to the top billing.
Of note while we are on the topic of consistency, Kensai Racing drivers Valerie Limoges and Travis Walker (on a pair of Acura RSX Type S), respectively fifth and sixth in the standings, still have a shot at the top. Race fans will also pay close attention to the rookie of the year fight, with Stephane Carrier (VW Jetta GTX) leading Vincent Basile (Honda Civic) by only seven points. Musique-Plus video-jockey Babu will be back in action, still a contender in the rookie Championship.
Excellence Chrysler Formula 1600 Cup:
Grand-Mere driver Philippe Gelinas will try to bring his winning streak to three in a row and put some distance between him and second place Olivier Bonnet, of St-Damase. The two drivers are separated by a five-point gap. They will have to watch Marcel Lafontaine, racing in his backyard, who placed second earlier this year in Sanair.
“I’ll try to attack Sanair as if it was any other race, explains Gelinas. With only three races left, everything is left open. I’ve had good moments in Sanair in the past, but it’s harder this year with the 92 Swift compared to last year’s Reynard. I actually hope we’ll hit some rain before the season ends, since I’m usually quick in those conditions.”
GTO/GTU/GT:
Many cars are expected in GTO, GTU and GT classes. In GTO, Ontario’s Malcolm Strachan (Chevrolet Corvette Z06) will try to continue on his winning form and cement his lead against defending champion Fernand Leblanc (Porsche 911 RSR). Leading by fourteen points, he won’t be allowed to relax. “Sanair should be a turning point in the GTO Championship for the Konica-Minolta Corvette. We’re hoping that the tuning done by Agostino Racing Engines should get us closer to the lap record and hopefully the win.”
In GTU class, Normand Robert (Mazda RX7) is back with a revised, more powerful car after missing Trois-Rivieres. He’ll aim to take the lead back from George Moutafis (BMW M3), and break the tie between him and Louis-Sebastien Dubord (VW Golf GTI) at 104 points. Two drivers to watch will be the quick Louis-Charles Cadieux (VW Rabbit) who’ll want to put his Trois-Rivieres problems behind, and returning Mathieu Jarry (Honda Civic).
Finally, Fernand Leblanc (Porsche 911 RSR) will work at strengthening his lead in GT class. Alain Goulet (Porsche 944 Turbo Cup) and Paul Bissonnette (Ford Mustang GT) will be hot on his heels.
About the Hankook Quebec Championship:
The 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.
CASCAR WESTERN SERIES: Dowler’s EMCO Taurus on the verge of winning its fifth CASCAR Western Series title
EDMONTON, AB – CASCAR Western Series veteran Kevin Dowler is poised to make history this Saturday night at Sun Valley Speedway in Vernon, British Columbia. The EMCO / Westlund / Western RV / Performance Friction Taurus driver is on the verge of earning his record-extending fifth Western Series championship.
The Sherwood Park, AB resident will enter the season finale with a virtually insurmountable 91-point advantage over his nearest rival, Derek Polack. Barring a massive turnout of racers for the event, Dowler will make things official when he takes the green flag to start the Lordco Auto Parts 200.
“Mathematically, our situation is pretty simple,” said Dowler. “We need to get the car qualified for the race. After that, unless there’s a monstrous turnout of cars, we will clinch the championship when the race begins.”
In spite of his commanding lead in the points, don’t think that Dowler will be content to just show up for the race. “We’re motivated to do well at Sun Valley, because we had such a bad time there during the Super Series National event in July. We want to show everyone that we can run well there. We’re preparing both of our oval cars to show up in winning form. We’ll decide during practice which car feels better and we’ll go with it for the race. We just love going to Sun Valley because it’s such a wonderful facility. They’re also having a big concert after the race, so it should be a good time.”
Although he’s not ready to start celebrating just yet, Dowler knows that his 2005 season has been a special one. “We’ve won eight of nine CASCAR Western Series points races so far this summer. We’ve had strong motors all year from AMS and my crew has been just awesome preparing our cars. It’s been a pleasure to drive the #35 EMCO Taurus this summer.”
Dowler also wants to recognize the participation of Sun Valley event sponsor Lordco Auto Parts. “Lordco stepped up to be the title sponsor of the Western Series closer and I want to thank them for that, on behalf of all the racers,” continued Dowler. “It demonstrates their commitment to the series’ racers and fans.”
The upcoming week will be a busy one for the Apollo Motorsports team. “Before we head to the racetrack, we’re taking the #35 EMCO Taurus to a bunch of EMCO locations,” noted Dowler. “There’s a golf tournament in Edmonton we’re displaying the car at, and then there’s a Customer Appreciation day in Camrose (AB). We’re also heading to Lethbridge and Red Deer. We’ve got lots of off-track things on the go to promote what we’re doing with the racing program, which is very important.”
Those interested in attending the Lordco Auto Parts 200 at Sun Valley Speedway should contact EMCO’s Debbie Luzia at (780) 454-4702 regarding tickets.
For information about Apollo Motorsports, contact Kevin Dowler at: (780) 462-9572 or via e-mail at: kdowler@telusplanet.net. // Prepared by Inside Track Communications.
L'Estage - Thomson: A Battle for the 2005 Title
Courtesy Canadian Association of RallySport (905) 640-6444
Stouffville (Ontario), September 7, 2005 – The Défi Ste-Agathe/Duhamel, Round 4 of the Canadian Rally Championship will mark the beginning of an epic battle for supremacy between Ontario’s Peter Thomson and Quebec’s Antoine L'Estage. It is now obvious that one of these two fine drivers will be crowned Canadian Rally Champion at the end of the present season.
At moment of writing, thirty-nine crews are entered in the event and although L’Estage and Thomson are two obvious favourites for the overall victory, several other teams will also be in the hunt. Sylvain Érickson, co-driven by his daughter Chloé will undoubtedly be a treat to be reckoned with. Érickson climbed on the podium on his return to rallying last July at the Baie-des-Chaleurs event. The highly spectacular driver will again be behind the wheel of the Mitsubishi Lancer he drove to overall victory in Ste. Agathe two years ago.
Although relatively unknown to the fans, three American teams can also cause some surprises. Lauchlin O'Sullivan of California will be co-driven by Nathalie Richard who is the overall Canadian and North American defending Champion. O'Sullivan/Richard duet will be behind the wheel of a Subaru Impreza WRX. Also in the hunt for victory are Matthew Iorio and Ole Holter who finished second in the Baie-des-Chaleurs rally aboard their Impreza WRX. Finally, John Cassidy of Maine will also be driving a Subaru but this time his car has been prepared in Quebec.
The top two-wheel drive competitors, such as six-time Canadian Rally Champion Frank Sprongl of Ontario (Suzuki Swift +) and Jon Nichols of Quebec (Golf Gti) will entertain the spectators with their astonishing slides as their car control is simply stupendous.
The start of the Défi Ste-Agathe/Duhamel will be given in Ste-Agathe-des-Monts this Friday, September 9 at 6 p.m. Four special stages will be held that evening. On Saturday, the action will move to the town of Duhamel with some of the most challenging gravel roads of the season. The arrival is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Saturday. Timing and scoring will be available on www.rallyscoring.com and www.rallyedefi.com.
Stouffville (Ontario), September 7, 2005 – The Défi Ste-Agathe/Duhamel, Round 4 of the Canadian Rally Championship will mark the beginning of an epic battle for supremacy between Ontario’s Peter Thomson and Quebec’s Antoine L'Estage. It is now obvious that one of these two fine drivers will be crowned Canadian Rally Champion at the end of the present season.
At moment of writing, thirty-nine crews are entered in the event and although L’Estage and Thomson are two obvious favourites for the overall victory, several other teams will also be in the hunt. Sylvain Érickson, co-driven by his daughter Chloé will undoubtedly be a treat to be reckoned with. Érickson climbed on the podium on his return to rallying last July at the Baie-des-Chaleurs event. The highly spectacular driver will again be behind the wheel of the Mitsubishi Lancer he drove to overall victory in Ste. Agathe two years ago.
Although relatively unknown to the fans, three American teams can also cause some surprises. Lauchlin O'Sullivan of California will be co-driven by Nathalie Richard who is the overall Canadian and North American defending Champion. O'Sullivan/Richard duet will be behind the wheel of a Subaru Impreza WRX. Also in the hunt for victory are Matthew Iorio and Ole Holter who finished second in the Baie-des-Chaleurs rally aboard their Impreza WRX. Finally, John Cassidy of Maine will also be driving a Subaru but this time his car has been prepared in Quebec.
The top two-wheel drive competitors, such as six-time Canadian Rally Champion Frank Sprongl of Ontario (Suzuki Swift +) and Jon Nichols of Quebec (Golf Gti) will entertain the spectators with their astonishing slides as their car control is simply stupendous.
The start of the Défi Ste-Agathe/Duhamel will be given in Ste-Agathe-des-Monts this Friday, September 9 at 6 p.m. Four special stages will be held that evening. On Saturday, the action will move to the town of Duhamel with some of the most challenging gravel roads of the season. The arrival is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Saturday. Timing and scoring will be available on www.rallyscoring.com and www.rallyedefi.com.
Tri-Point Motorsports Soldiers Through World Challenge Touring Car Series Mosport Weekend
Courtesy Mike Speck, JMS Motorsports Marketing
September 4, 2005 - Showing competitive form through much of the 28-lap SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Series Mosport Grand Prix event, the Tri-Point Motorsports squad and team drivers Randy Pobst, Dino Crescentini, and Jeff Altenburg took the checkered flag in their Mazdaspeed MAZDA6 race cars for 5th, 13th and 15th place respective finishing positions. The Mosport Grand Prix marked the 9th round of the 2005 World Challenge Touring Car Series, and with only one race remaining for this season, the chase for the manufacturers title will come down to the wire, setting up a go-for-broke shootout at the final event at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, the weekend of October 14th-16th.
Practice and Qualifying:
The Tri-Point MAZDA6 trio took to the Mosport circuit for first practice of the Labor Day weekend event at 10:15 AM EST on September 2nd. After working on set up changes to gain precious time on the circuit, the cars headed out for qualifying the following morning at 11:00 AM EST. Pobst, Altenburg and Crescentini attacked the high speed and technical 2.5 mile 10-turn race track from the first lap of qualifying, and posted 6th, 7th and 12th place starting positions respectively.
Race:
As the red lights went out for the start of the World Challenge Touring Car event on Sunday, there were no incidents, and the 22-car field headed into the very quick and challenging turn 1 at Mosport. Immediately following the start, SPEED World Challenge officials levied stop-and-go penalties on several cars for “false” starts, and the #73 entry of Randy Pobst was among those that headed to pit lane to serve the penalty. Pobst, of Gainesville, Georgia was immediately back out however, and spent the rest of the race deftly slicing his way through the field with the #73 MAZDA6 for a well-earned 5th place at the checkered flag.
Altenburg, as has become his trademark over the past several events, avoided potential issues at the start, and steadily worked his way through the field to run solidly in 4th for much of the event. However, on lap 23, Altenburg, of Ellicott City, Maryland, slowed the #72 Tri-Point MAZDA6 in turn three, and eventually limped his way back to pit lane; the victim of a broken transmission. Jeff’s 15th place finishing position was hardly fair reward considering his fine drive.
Crescentini had a solid race going, as he moved his way up to 7th position before handling woes began to take their toll. Despite a good drive, Dino had a quick spin on an oil patch left on the circuit, and was then hit by the #02 Mercedes C230 of Michael Galati. The contact ended Crescentini’s day, as he pitted on lap 25 and was classified as 13th in the finishing results.
Quotes - Jeff Altenburg #72:
I probably left a couple tenths on the table during qualifying, and with the way things ended up, I probably could have qualified as high as second, but I was really happy with the race performance. The Stop Tech brakes were very strong, and allowed me to close the gap to other cars under braking. Even though we ended up having that problem with the gearbox, before that point I was in fourth and was right on PD’s (Peter Cunningham RealTime Acura TSX) bumper. I felt as though I was going to get by him, but halfway through the race we started to have the gearbox issue, with the car shifting up to fifth all by itself. It especially hurt on the restart. (Following a late race full course caution period) Hats off to Charles (Espenlaub) and Tindol Motorsports for their first win, and for carrying the Mazda flag this race.
Randy Pobst #73:
I have to thank the whole Tri-Point crew, especially my car chief Chris for working so hard and doing a great job on my car this weekend. We really were chasing the set up quite a bit, and despite the stop and go penalty, we were able to salvage a good finish from the event. We had some good teamwork on the track as well. When I knew I had to serve the penalty, I let Jeff by, and then later in the race, when I came back up through the field, Dino let me by so I could gain some championship points, and I want to thank him for that.
Dino Crescentini #74:
I was gaining strongly on the two BMW’s in front of me after moving from 12th to 7th… and then came the yellow. I thought that thhis would be a good opportunity to make a move on the BMW’s on the restart, but due to cold tires the car didn’t handle too well, and in fact I started moving back. On the second lap after the restart, I spun in the oil in turn 1 that created the full-course yellow in the first place! While I was spinning, Galati slammed into my right front wheel, knocking the car out of alignment enough to the point where it was not race-worthy.
Points Races:
The all important manufacturers championship points race now shows Mazda trailing Acura by a mere 2 points at 72-70. The Tri-Point crew will be hard at work preparing their brilliant blue and white MAZDA6 s over the next month for the season ending event at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.
Randy Pobst, who will be working with the Tri-Point crew to help Mazda win the manufacturers title, will also be trying to take the drivers title from defending Touring Car champion RealTime driver Peter Cunningham, who ironically drives an Acura. Randy currently trails Cunnigham by 12 points at 236-224.
Sponsors:
For the 2005 season, Tri-Point Motorsports has continued to turn out some of the most professionally prepared race cars in the Touring Car paddock. As part of their on going efforts, the entire Tri-Point organization wishes to thank the following sponsors and supporters including: Mazda, Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development, Racing Hart, Stop Tech, Recaro, Crocotile, Quarter Master, Ron Davis Racing, Hawk, Koni NA, Pro Parts USA, and Race Sign Specialists.
Upcoming Events:
The final race of the 2005 SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Series will be held at the fabulous Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca outside Monterey, California the weekend of October 14th. Be sure to get all the information on this exciting upcoming event at www.world-challenge.com.
Info:
Keep up to date with the awesome Tri-Point MAZDA6 s at www.tripointengineering.com.
September 4, 2005 - Showing competitive form through much of the 28-lap SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Series Mosport Grand Prix event, the Tri-Point Motorsports squad and team drivers Randy Pobst, Dino Crescentini, and Jeff Altenburg took the checkered flag in their Mazdaspeed MAZDA6 race cars for 5th, 13th and 15th place respective finishing positions. The Mosport Grand Prix marked the 9th round of the 2005 World Challenge Touring Car Series, and with only one race remaining for this season, the chase for the manufacturers title will come down to the wire, setting up a go-for-broke shootout at the final event at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, the weekend of October 14th-16th.
Practice and Qualifying:
The Tri-Point MAZDA6 trio took to the Mosport circuit for first practice of the Labor Day weekend event at 10:15 AM EST on September 2nd. After working on set up changes to gain precious time on the circuit, the cars headed out for qualifying the following morning at 11:00 AM EST. Pobst, Altenburg and Crescentini attacked the high speed and technical 2.5 mile 10-turn race track from the first lap of qualifying, and posted 6th, 7th and 12th place starting positions respectively.
Race:
As the red lights went out for the start of the World Challenge Touring Car event on Sunday, there were no incidents, and the 22-car field headed into the very quick and challenging turn 1 at Mosport. Immediately following the start, SPEED World Challenge officials levied stop-and-go penalties on several cars for “false” starts, and the #73 entry of Randy Pobst was among those that headed to pit lane to serve the penalty. Pobst, of Gainesville, Georgia was immediately back out however, and spent the rest of the race deftly slicing his way through the field with the #73 MAZDA6 for a well-earned 5th place at the checkered flag.
Altenburg, as has become his trademark over the past several events, avoided potential issues at the start, and steadily worked his way through the field to run solidly in 4th for much of the event. However, on lap 23, Altenburg, of Ellicott City, Maryland, slowed the #72 Tri-Point MAZDA6 in turn three, and eventually limped his way back to pit lane; the victim of a broken transmission. Jeff’s 15th place finishing position was hardly fair reward considering his fine drive.
Crescentini had a solid race going, as he moved his way up to 7th position before handling woes began to take their toll. Despite a good drive, Dino had a quick spin on an oil patch left on the circuit, and was then hit by the #02 Mercedes C230 of Michael Galati. The contact ended Crescentini’s day, as he pitted on lap 25 and was classified as 13th in the finishing results.
Quotes - Jeff Altenburg #72:
I probably left a couple tenths on the table during qualifying, and with the way things ended up, I probably could have qualified as high as second, but I was really happy with the race performance. The Stop Tech brakes were very strong, and allowed me to close the gap to other cars under braking. Even though we ended up having that problem with the gearbox, before that point I was in fourth and was right on PD’s (Peter Cunningham RealTime Acura TSX) bumper. I felt as though I was going to get by him, but halfway through the race we started to have the gearbox issue, with the car shifting up to fifth all by itself. It especially hurt on the restart. (Following a late race full course caution period) Hats off to Charles (Espenlaub) and Tindol Motorsports for their first win, and for carrying the Mazda flag this race.
Randy Pobst #73:
I have to thank the whole Tri-Point crew, especially my car chief Chris for working so hard and doing a great job on my car this weekend. We really were chasing the set up quite a bit, and despite the stop and go penalty, we were able to salvage a good finish from the event. We had some good teamwork on the track as well. When I knew I had to serve the penalty, I let Jeff by, and then later in the race, when I came back up through the field, Dino let me by so I could gain some championship points, and I want to thank him for that.
Dino Crescentini #74:
I was gaining strongly on the two BMW’s in front of me after moving from 12th to 7th… and then came the yellow. I thought that thhis would be a good opportunity to make a move on the BMW’s on the restart, but due to cold tires the car didn’t handle too well, and in fact I started moving back. On the second lap after the restart, I spun in the oil in turn 1 that created the full-course yellow in the first place! While I was spinning, Galati slammed into my right front wheel, knocking the car out of alignment enough to the point where it was not race-worthy.
Points Races:
The all important manufacturers championship points race now shows Mazda trailing Acura by a mere 2 points at 72-70. The Tri-Point crew will be hard at work preparing their brilliant blue and white MAZDA6 s over the next month for the season ending event at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.
Randy Pobst, who will be working with the Tri-Point crew to help Mazda win the manufacturers title, will also be trying to take the drivers title from defending Touring Car champion RealTime driver Peter Cunningham, who ironically drives an Acura. Randy currently trails Cunnigham by 12 points at 236-224.
Sponsors:
For the 2005 season, Tri-Point Motorsports has continued to turn out some of the most professionally prepared race cars in the Touring Car paddock. As part of their on going efforts, the entire Tri-Point organization wishes to thank the following sponsors and supporters including: Mazda, Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development, Racing Hart, Stop Tech, Recaro, Crocotile, Quarter Master, Ron Davis Racing, Hawk, Koni NA, Pro Parts USA, and Race Sign Specialists.
Upcoming Events:
The final race of the 2005 SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Series will be held at the fabulous Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca outside Monterey, California the weekend of October 14th. Be sure to get all the information on this exciting upcoming event at www.world-challenge.com.
Info:
Keep up to date with the awesome Tri-Point MAZDA6 s at www.tripointengineering.com.
OSCAAR: Team JNE Consulting Comes Up Short for the Forth One
Courtesy Scott Fletcher
Milton, On: Going for the fourth win in a row for “The Don Biederman Memorial” race and the forth win of the 2005 OSCAAR Outlaw Super Late Model season is a challenge that any race team would like to chase but unfortunately as in any streak they come to an end. John Fletcher and Team JNE Consulting made the journey to Peterbourgh Speedway on Thursday for a press conference and autograph sessions prior to the race Saturday night.
“It was an honor to be out here doing these promotions for this race, OSCAAR and JNE Consulting,” John Fletcher said.
The night started off with a bang with a hard hit of the wall in practice, the team lead by Scott Fletcher worked hard to get the car ready for the nights racing. A finish of third and second in the qualifying races gave Team JNE Consulting the confidence that the car was ready to defend the “Don Biederman Memorial”. Then the draw for the staring positions came, the result had the 61 car of John starting ninth on the grid, Rob Clarke and his 49 machine drew third and the 70 of Jeff Hanley fifth.
John knew the challenge ahead but tonight the team was unable to make a serious challenge for the lead after getting to third in just three laps.
“Rob ran a wicked pace all night and we could maintain but we were off that little bit needed to run them hard. Rob and his boys deserved this one tonight and we all know how critical track position is,” Fletcher said.
With Rob Clarke’s win and Team JNE Consulting’s third place finish the margin in points is back to 131 with three races to go in the OSCAAR Outlaw Super Late Model Series.
Team JNE Consulting would like to thank Kim Mahony and the staff of OSCAAR for the hard work put in for this race alone and The New Chay 93.1 FM, CHEX TV and the other media that where on hand for this event.
Team JNE Consulting will next be in action September 25 at Barrie Speedway for the Barrie Speedway “500” Weekend and Meet Mario Andretti at Barrie Speedway September 24th 5:15pm – 6:00pm trackside.
Milton, On: Going for the fourth win in a row for “The Don Biederman Memorial” race and the forth win of the 2005 OSCAAR Outlaw Super Late Model season is a challenge that any race team would like to chase but unfortunately as in any streak they come to an end. John Fletcher and Team JNE Consulting made the journey to Peterbourgh Speedway on Thursday for a press conference and autograph sessions prior to the race Saturday night.
“It was an honor to be out here doing these promotions for this race, OSCAAR and JNE Consulting,” John Fletcher said.
The night started off with a bang with a hard hit of the wall in practice, the team lead by Scott Fletcher worked hard to get the car ready for the nights racing. A finish of third and second in the qualifying races gave Team JNE Consulting the confidence that the car was ready to defend the “Don Biederman Memorial”. Then the draw for the staring positions came, the result had the 61 car of John starting ninth on the grid, Rob Clarke and his 49 machine drew third and the 70 of Jeff Hanley fifth.
John knew the challenge ahead but tonight the team was unable to make a serious challenge for the lead after getting to third in just three laps.
“Rob ran a wicked pace all night and we could maintain but we were off that little bit needed to run them hard. Rob and his boys deserved this one tonight and we all know how critical track position is,” Fletcher said.
With Rob Clarke’s win and Team JNE Consulting’s third place finish the margin in points is back to 131 with three races to go in the OSCAAR Outlaw Super Late Model Series.
Team JNE Consulting would like to thank Kim Mahony and the staff of OSCAAR for the hard work put in for this race alone and The New Chay 93.1 FM, CHEX TV and the other media that where on hand for this event.
Team JNE Consulting will next be in action September 25 at Barrie Speedway for the Barrie Speedway “500” Weekend and Meet Mario Andretti at Barrie Speedway September 24th 5:15pm – 6:00pm trackside.
CASCAR SUPER SERIES: Points after Delaware
POINT STANDINGS as of September 4 2005
Pos Car # Driver/Hometown Car Make Points
1. 4 Don Thomson Jr/Ayr, ON Chevrolet 1886
2. 1 Peter Gibbons/Stouffville, ON Chevrolet 1797
3. 17 DJ Kennington/St Thomas, ON Dodge 1768
4. 39 Dave Whitlock/Petrolia, ON Dodge 1709
5. 60 Ron Beauchamp Jr/Windsor, ON Dodge 1707
6. 02 Kerry Micks/Mt Albert, ON Ford 1697
7. 9 Mark Dilley/Barrie, ON Dodge 1670
8. 19 Brad Graham/Glencoe, ON Dodge 1667
9. 84 J.R. Fitzpatrick/Cambridge, ON Chevrolet 1650
10. 88 Dave Jacombs/Mt Hope, ON Ford 1566
11. 22 Scott Steckly/Milverton, ON Pontiac 1516
12. 10 Doug Brown/Brantford, ON Chevrolet 1516
13. 11 Ron VanEs/Smithville, ON Chevrolet 1452
14. 37 R Tara MacLeod/Innisfil, ON Ford 1446
15. 3 Stu Robinson/Holland Landing, ON Dodge 1380
16. 14 John Fitzpatrick/Ayr, ON Chevrolet 1171
17. 71 Bryan Cathcart/Peterborough, ON Dodge 988
18. 25 Jim Lapcevich/Hamilton, ON Chevrolet 944
19. 23 Jeff Lapcevich/Caistor Centre, ON Chevrolet 922
20. 18 R Chad McGlynn/Petersburg, ON Ford 792
21. 42 Sean Stafford/Springfield, ON Chevrolet 786
22. 93 Joe Goncalves/Toronto, ON Chevrolet 664
23. 8 Marc Miller/Holland, MI Dodge 626
24. 50 Pete Shepherd/Brampton, ON Dodge 542
25. 77 R Derek Lynch/Warkworth, ON Dodge 498
26. 86 Kenny Forth/Lynden, ON Ford 418
27. 20 Mark Swain/Stouffville, ON Dodge 370
28. 44 Marv Wilder/Toronto, ON Ford 346
29. 43 Bob Merrifield/Belle River, ON Dodge 300
30. 71 Pete Shepherd III/Brampton, ON Ford 288
31. 0 Howie Scannelll Jr/Milton, ON Chevrolet 272
32. 52 Ron Sheridan/Strathroy, ON Pontiac 246
33. 82 Dave Connelly/White Lake, ON Chevrolet 238
34. 28 Steve Robblee/Dorchester, ON Ford 238
35. 75 R Kenny Haul/Etobicoke, ON Chevrolet 228
36. 41 R Matty Tsoumaris/Toronto, ON Chevrolet 210
37. 41 John Tsoumaris/Toronto, ON Chevrolet 200
37. 94 Mark Graham/Odessa, ON Chevrolet 196
39. 99 Scott Watkins/Milton, ON Pontiac 196
40. 72 Pete Shepherd III/Brampton, ON Dodge 138
41. 77 Pete Vanderwyst/St Thomas, ON Dodge 118
42. 63 R Lain Vendittelli/St Catharines, ON Ford 108
43. 46 Kevin Trevellin/Windsor, ON Dodge 106
44. 16 Andre Coursol/St Jerome, PQ Chevrolet 102
Pos Car # Driver/Hometown Car Make Points
1. 4 Don Thomson Jr/Ayr, ON Chevrolet 1886
2. 1 Peter Gibbons/Stouffville, ON Chevrolet 1797
3. 17 DJ Kennington/St Thomas, ON Dodge 1768
4. 39 Dave Whitlock/Petrolia, ON Dodge 1709
5. 60 Ron Beauchamp Jr/Windsor, ON Dodge 1707
6. 02 Kerry Micks/Mt Albert, ON Ford 1697
7. 9 Mark Dilley/Barrie, ON Dodge 1670
8. 19 Brad Graham/Glencoe, ON Dodge 1667
9. 84 J.R. Fitzpatrick/Cambridge, ON Chevrolet 1650
10. 88 Dave Jacombs/Mt Hope, ON Ford 1566
11. 22 Scott Steckly/Milverton, ON Pontiac 1516
12. 10 Doug Brown/Brantford, ON Chevrolet 1516
13. 11 Ron VanEs/Smithville, ON Chevrolet 1452
14. 37 R Tara MacLeod/Innisfil, ON Ford 1446
15. 3 Stu Robinson/Holland Landing, ON Dodge 1380
16. 14 John Fitzpatrick/Ayr, ON Chevrolet 1171
17. 71 Bryan Cathcart/Peterborough, ON Dodge 988
18. 25 Jim Lapcevich/Hamilton, ON Chevrolet 944
19. 23 Jeff Lapcevich/Caistor Centre, ON Chevrolet 922
20. 18 R Chad McGlynn/Petersburg, ON Ford 792
21. 42 Sean Stafford/Springfield, ON Chevrolet 786
22. 93 Joe Goncalves/Toronto, ON Chevrolet 664
23. 8 Marc Miller/Holland, MI Dodge 626
24. 50 Pete Shepherd/Brampton, ON Dodge 542
25. 77 R Derek Lynch/Warkworth, ON Dodge 498
26. 86 Kenny Forth/Lynden, ON Ford 418
27. 20 Mark Swain/Stouffville, ON Dodge 370
28. 44 Marv Wilder/Toronto, ON Ford 346
29. 43 Bob Merrifield/Belle River, ON Dodge 300
30. 71 Pete Shepherd III/Brampton, ON Ford 288
31. 0 Howie Scannelll Jr/Milton, ON Chevrolet 272
32. 52 Ron Sheridan/Strathroy, ON Pontiac 246
33. 82 Dave Connelly/White Lake, ON Chevrolet 238
34. 28 Steve Robblee/Dorchester, ON Ford 238
35. 75 R Kenny Haul/Etobicoke, ON Chevrolet 228
36. 41 R Matty Tsoumaris/Toronto, ON Chevrolet 210
37. 41 John Tsoumaris/Toronto, ON Chevrolet 200
37. 94 Mark Graham/Odessa, ON Chevrolet 196
39. 99 Scott Watkins/Milton, ON Pontiac 196
40. 72 Pete Shepherd III/Brampton, ON Dodge 138
41. 77 Pete Vanderwyst/St Thomas, ON Dodge 118
42. 63 R Lain Vendittelli/St Catharines, ON Ford 108
43. 46 Kevin Trevellin/Windsor, ON Dodge 106
44. 16 Andre Coursol/St Jerome, PQ Chevrolet 102
CASCAR: PETE SHEPHERD JR TO DRIVE MID AMERICA FREIGHT CHEVY IN FINAL TWO CASCAR SUPER SERIES EVENTS
Mid America Motorsports President Dave Didero is pleased to announce that they will be entering the #20 Mid America Freight Chevrolet in the final two CASCAR Super Series events of the season with Pete Shepherd Jr. behind the wheel. The races at scheduled for Saturday September 10th at Cayuga Speedway near Hamilton, Ontario and on Sunday September 18th at Kawartha Speedway in Ontario’s Cottage Country.
“We are very pleased to have Petey join us for the remainder of the season in the Mid America Chevy” said an enthusiastic Dave Didero. “I’ve known the Shepherd family for many years and remember saying to Pete when he was just starting out that he’d be racing in one my cars some day, I guess I’m finally keeping my word. With Pete joining Sean Stafford in the #42 car we’ll have two of the best young drivers in both events”.
Pete Shepherd has already made quite a name for himself in racing circles. Shepherd was the CASCAR Super Series rookie of the year in 2004. He qualified on the pole position at Cayuga Speedway last season and finished 10th in the overall points standings. He has competed in select Super Series events this year and was a finalist in the recently completed Roush Racing “Gong Show” search for a talented young driver. The events of the search were chronicled in a Discovery Channel reality series airing this fall.
Even with this busy schedule it’s important for the youngster to get quality seat time. “I’m really happy with this opportunity to drive the Mid America Motorsports Chevy” said Shepherd. “It’s great to be running at Cayuga for the first event, I like that track and feel really positive that we can put up a solid result”.
Pete Shepherd and the Mid America team will be on track for practice and qualifying this Saturday September the 10th beginning at 4PM. The green flag for the 200 lap feature race waves at 8:30PM.
The CASCAR Super Series competes at historic oval tracks like Delaware Speedway, Cayuga Speedway along with the challenging road course at Mosport International Raceway and also on the temporary street circuit at the Toronto Molson Indy. For more information on Mid America Motorsports and the CASCAR Super series log onto www.cascar.ca and watch all of the races on Rogers Sportsnet.
Contact Information:
Mid America Motorsports Dave Didero, President
(905) 741-9244 midamericamotorsports@hotmail.com
This release prepared by, TL Sports & Entertainment
NASCAR Nextel Cup 2006 schedule.... from NASCAR.com
NASCAR released its 2006 Nextel Cup Schedule on Tuesday. No big changes.
02/11/06 Budweiser Shootout Daytona International Speedway
02/16/06 Gatorade Duel 1 Daytona International Speedway
02/16/06 Gatorade Duel 2 Daytona International Speedway
02/19/06 Daytona 500 Daytona International Speedway
02/26/06 California Speedway
03/12/06 Las Vegas Motor Speedway
03/19/06 Atlanta Motor Speedway
03/26/06 Bristol Motor Speedway
04/02/06 Martinsville Speedway
04/09/06 Texas Motor Speedway
04/22/06 Phoenix International Raceway
04/30/06 Talladega Superspeedway
05/06/06 Richmond International Raceway
05/13/06 Darlington Raceway
05/20/06 NASCAR NEXTEL All-Star Challenge Lowe's Motor Speedway
05/28/06 Lowe's Motor Speedway
06/04/06 Dover International Speedway
06/11/06 Pocono Raceway
06/18/06 Michigan International Speedway
06/25/06 Infineon Raceway
07/01/06 Daytona International Speedway
07/09/06 Chicagoland Speedway
07/16/06 New Hampshire International Speedway
07/23/06 Pocono Raceway
08/06/06 Indianapolis Motor Speedway
08/13/06 Watkins Glen International
08/20/06 Michigan International Speedway
08/26/06 Bristol Motor Speedway
09/03/06 California Speedway
09/09/06 Richmond International Raceway
09/17/06 New Hampshire International Speedway
09/24/06 Dover International Speedway
10/01/06 Kansas Speedway
10/08/06 Talladega Superspeedway
10/14/06 Lowe's Motor Speedway
10/22/06 Martinsville Speedway
10/29/06 Atlanta Motor Speedway
11/05/06 Texas Motor Speedway
11/12/06 Phoenix International Raceway
11/19/06 Homestead Miami Speedway
02/11/06 Budweiser Shootout Daytona International Speedway
02/16/06 Gatorade Duel 1 Daytona International Speedway
02/16/06 Gatorade Duel 2 Daytona International Speedway
02/19/06 Daytona 500 Daytona International Speedway
02/26/06 California Speedway
03/12/06 Las Vegas Motor Speedway
03/19/06 Atlanta Motor Speedway
03/26/06 Bristol Motor Speedway
04/02/06 Martinsville Speedway
04/09/06 Texas Motor Speedway
04/22/06 Phoenix International Raceway
04/30/06 Talladega Superspeedway
05/06/06 Richmond International Raceway
05/13/06 Darlington Raceway
05/20/06 NASCAR NEXTEL All-Star Challenge Lowe's Motor Speedway
05/28/06 Lowe's Motor Speedway
06/04/06 Dover International Speedway
06/11/06 Pocono Raceway
06/18/06 Michigan International Speedway
06/25/06 Infineon Raceway
07/01/06 Daytona International Speedway
07/09/06 Chicagoland Speedway
07/16/06 New Hampshire International Speedway
07/23/06 Pocono Raceway
08/06/06 Indianapolis Motor Speedway
08/13/06 Watkins Glen International
08/20/06 Michigan International Speedway
08/26/06 Bristol Motor Speedway
09/03/06 California Speedway
09/09/06 Richmond International Raceway
09/17/06 New Hampshire International Speedway
09/24/06 Dover International Speedway
10/01/06 Kansas Speedway
10/08/06 Talladega Superspeedway
10/14/06 Lowe's Motor Speedway
10/22/06 Martinsville Speedway
10/29/06 Atlanta Motor Speedway
11/05/06 Texas Motor Speedway
11/12/06 Phoenix International Raceway
11/19/06 Homestead Miami Speedway
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Stawicki captures PMRA event at TMP: Strong field of Pro Modifieds battle in heads-up racing
Courtesy Bruce F. MehlenbacherSeptember 3, 2005, CAYUGA, ON – Mike Stawicki powered his way to a resounding victory in the fifth Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA) www.promodifiedracing.com event at Toronto Motorsports Park at Cayuga, Ontario, over the Labour Day weekend.
The Medina, New York driver was the dominate force in the race in his G-Force Race Cars 1967 Camaro.
“This was a good win,” said Stawicki after the final. “The track got better as the night went on, and the car was nice and straight.”
The strong field of PMRA Pro Modifieds were one of the highlights of the weekend’s KC Auto Parts Family Day Celebration at the Kohler Road track.
Stawicki was matched up against present PMRA series points leader Joe Lilienthal of Kenmore, New York in his 1968 Jeep for the final. Both drivers left the line with .142-second reaction times, but Stawicki pulled ahead mid-track winning with a 6.229-second, 227.08 run against Lilienthal’s 6.749, 203.16-mph pass.
Stawicki, who qualified number one taking the Darren Mayer Performance Engineering (DMPE) Low Qualifier Bonus in the 12-car field with a 6.205-second, 225.88-mph effort, took out Luciano Querin of Toronto in the Quality Plus Racing Camaro in the semi-final with a 6.24-second, 221.58 mph pass over Querin’s 6.85-second, 210.54-mph run. The other semi was a wild race as both Lilienthal and reigning IHRA Pro Modified World Champ Mike Janis of Lancaster, New York, left the line together, but as Lilienthal got a little out of shape about half-way, Janis backed off, giving Lilienthal the win, with a 7.748-second, 179.88-mph run against the champ’s losing 8.684-second, 119.58-mph pass.
In quarter-final action, Stawicki took out Brantford, ON’s Mark Nielson, Querin advanced after beating Bruce Boland of Hamilton, Janis eliminated number two qualifier Larry Sinke of Welland, Ontario, and Lilienthal beat Ralph Andreacchi of Maple, Ontario.
Winning the Bear’s Performance Products Consistent Qualifier Bonus was Bruce Boland in the B&B Racing 1953 Chevrolet Corvette.
The TMP race was the final scheduled event in the 2005 season, but the PMRA is hoping to hold the rain-postponed Lancaster, New York race in October, and a decision will be made within the next few days.
Tara MacLeod and Central Merchant Services Team CASCAR PowerWater Rookie of the Year Champion
By Bruce F. Mehlenbacher, Director of Public RelationsSeptember 2, 2005, Innisfil, ON – In her first year of CASCAR Super Series competition, Tara MacLeod is the 2005 CASCAR PowerWater Rookie of the Year Champion. And as the driver of the #37 Central Merchant Services Ford Taurus, that’s what fans will hear at the driver’s introduction during this weekend’s APC 300 Great Canadian Race Weekend CASCAR Super Series event at Delaware Speedway in London.
MacLeod clinched the championship after starting the last CASCAR Super Series event at Peterborough Speedway.
“I could never have done it without you guys,” she said on her radio after starting the Peterborough event. “This title is extremely important to all of us on the team including Central Merchant Services, we certainly could not ever have done this without them.”
“It’s really hard to believe that only five months ago Kevin Pankow, CEO and President of Central Merchant Services and I talked about this CASCAR Super Series aspiration and now it’s a reality.”
"Everyone at Central Merchant Services is very proud of Tara and her team," stated Kevin Pankow, CEO and President of Central Merchant Services. "She set the team goals and stuck with it and we really like what she stands for on and off of the track. Everyone at Central Merchant Services hopes this is just the beginning of a long and very successful relationship."
The CASCAR Rookie of the Year Championship is sponsored by the PowerWater Corporation a Canadian owned and operated bottled drinking water company. Their premier product, PowerWater, is pure, clean, Oxygenated Distilled Water. Utilizing a Trade Secret Industrial Design, their advanced technology provides consumers with a beverage that quenches thirst while energizing the body.
“We are extremely pleased to have Tara as the PowerWater Rookie of the Year Champion,” explained Terry J. Coughlin, PowerWater President. “She was focused on this target from the very beginning of the season and she and her team knew what it would take. Her objective was to finish every race and the championship would come to her, “ he added. “Tara’s dedication to the series and to her sponsors was endless this season, as she spent precious time with the media promoting the CASCAR Super Series, her sponsor Central Merchant Services, and PowerWater in her race for the championship.”
“I’ve always said, the real work starts once you have a sponsor,” MacLeod went on to say. “The media attention did take a lot of time and work, but that’s a major part of the whole deal. It’s not only great for our team and our sponsor Central Merchant Services, but it is beneficial for CASCAR and the sport we all love. We are pleased to help promote auto racing in this country.”
The Labour Day Great Canadian Race Weekend CASCAR Super Series at Delaware Speedway is one of the biggest events on the annual Canadian stock car calendar. Sunday afternoon’s APC 300 is the centerpiece of a racing tradition that goes back more than two decades.
The CASCAR Super Series race, APC 300 Great Canadian Race Weekend will take place Saturday and Sunday, September 3 and 4 on Delaware Speedway’s half-mile paved oval, located at London, Ontario.
For information about Delaware Speedway tickets, call the Delaware Speedway Hotline at 1.519.652.5068 (Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET) or visit online at http://www.delawarespeedway.com/.
TeamVDG ready for Targa victory
TORONTO (September 5, 2005) -- The two-car team vying to win both the Modern and Classic divisions at Targa Newfoundland is ready to race.
The dual TeamVDG entry -- a furiously fast 1967 Acadian Canso Sport Coupe and a powerful 2005 Subaru WRX STi -- boasts experienced drivers and competitive cars. They are among the top contenders at the fourth-annual Targa Newfoundland rally, starting Sept 10 in St. John’s.
“We like our chances at Targa Newfoundland,” says Keith Townsend, who will drive the Subaru. “Both cars are in great shape and the team is all set for the challenge.”
Classic driver Jud Buchanan says his Acadian has never been in better shape. The freshly built 327 cubic inch engine is producing over 400 lb/ft of torque at the rear wheels.
“The Acadian is ready to take on the Mustangs, BMWs and Porsches on our way to the Classic division win,” he says.
The two-car team is vying for the best overall result by a Canadian in the race’s four-year history.
Although the event doesn’t recognize an overall winner, a handicap system allows competitors to compare results despite major differences in machinery.
“There is some serious competition on the Modern division, with several similar Subarus in the race. We’d like to think we can challenge the Modern division title as well as the best result overall,” said Townsend.
Novice Jen Horsey will navigate for Townsend, while Buchanan is joined in competition by co-driver Peter Wright.
The team will take on 2,100 kilometres of challenging, twisty Newfoundland terrain over six days -- including more than 500 kilometres of closed-road, flat-out Targa stages.
Watch for regular updates on the team’s progress at macleans.ca starting Sept. 9 and continuing until a wrap-up following the race-ending gala on Sept. 17. Horsey and team photographer Andrew Harvey will document the Targa experience for the online edition of the national news magazine.
The team is sponsored by Castrol for 2005 as part of the aggressive promotional efforts of Wakefield Canada, the brand’s new distributor and marketer in Canada.
The team is also supported by The Contact Patch, Wheel and Tire Zone, Privilege Magazine, Marcovitch PR, StaggeredTime Solutions and supports the Show Kids you Care charity.
For more information or to arrange interviews contact: Keith Townsend 416.806.2640 /Keith@vehicleDG.com or Jud Buchanan 647.224.7163 /Jud@vehicleDG.com.
The dual TeamVDG entry -- a furiously fast 1967 Acadian Canso Sport Coupe and a powerful 2005 Subaru WRX STi -- boasts experienced drivers and competitive cars. They are among the top contenders at the fourth-annual Targa Newfoundland rally, starting Sept 10 in St. John’s.
“We like our chances at Targa Newfoundland,” says Keith Townsend, who will drive the Subaru. “Both cars are in great shape and the team is all set for the challenge.”
Classic driver Jud Buchanan says his Acadian has never been in better shape. The freshly built 327 cubic inch engine is producing over 400 lb/ft of torque at the rear wheels.
“The Acadian is ready to take on the Mustangs, BMWs and Porsches on our way to the Classic division win,” he says.
The two-car team is vying for the best overall result by a Canadian in the race’s four-year history.
Although the event doesn’t recognize an overall winner, a handicap system allows competitors to compare results despite major differences in machinery.
“There is some serious competition on the Modern division, with several similar Subarus in the race. We’d like to think we can challenge the Modern division title as well as the best result overall,” said Townsend.
Novice Jen Horsey will navigate for Townsend, while Buchanan is joined in competition by co-driver Peter Wright.
The team will take on 2,100 kilometres of challenging, twisty Newfoundland terrain over six days -- including more than 500 kilometres of closed-road, flat-out Targa stages.
Watch for regular updates on the team’s progress at macleans.ca starting Sept. 9 and continuing until a wrap-up following the race-ending gala on Sept. 17. Horsey and team photographer Andrew Harvey will document the Targa experience for the online edition of the national news magazine.
The team is sponsored by Castrol for 2005 as part of the aggressive promotional efforts of Wakefield Canada, the brand’s new distributor and marketer in Canada.
The team is also supported by The Contact Patch, Wheel and Tire Zone, Privilege Magazine, Marcovitch PR, StaggeredTime Solutions and supports the Show Kids you Care charity.
For more information or to arrange interviews contact: Keith Townsend 416.806.2640 /Keith@vehicleDG.com or Jud Buchanan 647.224.7163 /Jud@vehicleDG.com.
BRAD GRAHAM & THE CHALLENGER MOTOR FREIGHT/LOGEL’S AUTO PARTS DODGE A FEW DROPS SHORT
Release Prepared by Todd Lewis, TL Sports & EntertainmentSeptember 5, 2005 – The Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Charger Dodge was one of the strongest cars at Delaware Speedway during the Great Canadian 300 Weekend but their final placing was a disappointment.
Driver Brad Graham qualified the car in eighth starting spot and had no trouble running with the lead pack of cars throughout the race despite a rash of caution periods that plagued the event. “Our car was better on longer runs” said the driver. “After a few laps the tires really came in and the car got better and better”
With the almost constant caution periods a host of pit strategies came into play. Brad and the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts team had a good handling race car and as stops cycled through the team took over the race lead on lap 189. “Things were looking good at that point” said Graham. “Out in front we were able to runs some really good laps and didn’t really face any strong challengers for a while”
As the caution flag continued to fly on a regular basis the team began worrying about fuel mileage but felt they should be able to run until the race conclusion. Even with Brad falling to second place they felt if there was a run of green flag racing the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Dodge would be ale to get back in front.
However calculations and the actual fuel situation were a little different and Brad ran short only a half dozen laps from the finish and coasted slowly around to the pits. The crew fueled him as quickly as possible but the car wouldn’t re-fire. Fellow competitor Pete Vanderwyst gave Brad a push with his car and the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Dodge was able to complete the event in 10th position. “I owe Pete a big thank you for helping us out” stated Graham afterwards. “The cars just don’t like to fire when they run dry and he really saved us.”
Next up the CASCAR Super Series returns to Cayuga Speedway on Saturday September 10th to make up the rained out date from August.
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.
KARTING: Maxime Pelletier wins at Mosport: A tired, but fast Pelletier wins at Mosport in SRFKC
Release prepared by Russ Bond Agency (www.russbondagency.com)MOSPORT, ONTARIO Normally the drive to a Sunoco Ron Fellows Karting Championship race for France-born, Quebec based driver Maxime Pelletier takes but a few hours. But to get to Mosport for round five of the SRFKC championship, Pelletier came from Valencia, Spain after taking part in the Formula BMW Scholarship runoff.
Pelletier didn’t arrive until early Saturday morning, missing the Friday practice session. “I am a little tired, but also excited after a great trip to Valencia last week,” Pelletier said. “The FBMW scholarship runoff was very exciting. I think I did very well, but now we will have to wait to see if I am awarded a scholarship for next year.”
As good as Pelletier’s week had been so far, he took a hit in his first race of the weekend, Formula Junior, as he qualified fourth. “I may be a little off considering we just flew back from Europe late last night” said a disappointed Pelletier right after the qualification session. As it turns out driver fatigue wasn’t the problem, an engine problem caused him to end up fifth. “From the very first session in my Cameron/CRG Formula Junior, I could tell something was not quite right” commented Maxime “I couldn’t even take advantage of passing opportunities on the track.”
Later in the day, the Rotax Max Junior race was a vindication and Pelletier was back on form. He was very quick in qualifying amongst a strong field and took an early lead in the race. A consistent and mistake-free drive provided Maxime with a 2.7 second margin at the checkered flag. The dominating victory will help him in the point standings going into the final race.
“I am fighting for the SRFKC title in Formula Junior,” Pelletier said. “Innisfil will be the deciding race, and I’ll be ready.”
Maxime Pelletier Fast Facts;
Maxime Pelletier is a 15 year old karter from Longueuil, Quebec. He attends College Charles Lemoyne. Pelletier started karting in 2003. Pelletier is currently a member of Cameron Motorsports, based in Hamilton Ontario. In 2004, he won the Barrie Grand Prix in Rotax Junior, and he won the 2005 season opener in the Sunoco Ron Fellows Karting Championship in Formula Junior. In 2003, he finished 4rd in the Coupe de Montreal, 2nd in 2004 in Rotax Max Jr.
He has competed in the Rotax Max finals three times (3rd in 2003, 7th in 2004, 2nd in 2005). He also competes in Stars of Tomorrow, and SKUSA where he finished 3rd in Las Vegas SuperNationals in 2004. Pelletier has also been invited to the 2005 Formula BMW Scholarship run-off.
THE MOPAR PARTS CHARGER & RON BEAUCHAMP JR. SCORE ANOTHER TOP FIVE FINISH
By Todd Lewis, TL Sports & EntertainmentSeptember 5, 2005 – Ron Beauchamp Jr. and the Mopar Parts team headed back to Delaware Speedway looking for more success at the track where the team scored its first victory of the season. The task a little tougher this time with 300 laps to run in the Great Canadian Race weekend.
Always looking to improve the Mopar Parts Charger the team tried some adjustments during qualifying but after a disappointing 11th quickest time they returned to the set up that took them to victory lane in May.
From the start the car was quick. “I was able to gain a few positions pretty early despite all the caution periods” said Beauchamp. “It had exactly the same feel early on as we did in the spring and I felt pretty confident”. The Mopar Parts team continued to cheer their driver on as he took the lead just before the half way mark of the race.
As pit stops began to cycle through for the rest of the teams Beauchamp was dropped back in the field but still laying down quick laps. “Our strategy was a little different I think” said the driver. “In the first race we only stopped once and that’s what we wanted to do again. As the race went on things started going our way and we were headed back to the front”.
However the Great Canadian Race was a little different. It’s 50 laps longer and was marred by a total of 17 caution periods. “With all the caution periods we really didn’t have a chance to stretch our legs the way we could in the spring” said Beauchamp afterwards. “The car was pretty good but every time we started to get going the caution would come out, and then late in the race everybody was pushing so hard that we just ran out of time, another couple of laps and we would have been on the podium again”.
Ron Beauchamp Jr. and the Mopar Parts Charger did show very well at one of their favourite tracks with a fourth place finish. The points accumulated also move Ron Beauchamp Jr. up to fourth in the overall CASCAR Super Series point standings.
Ron Beauchamp Jr. and the Mopar Parts Charger return to action on Saturday September 10th at Cayuga Speedway. This is a make up date for the event rained out in August.
The CASCAR Super Series is the only National Stock Car Racing series with events scheduled this year at famed oval tracks including Delaware Speedway & Cayuga Speedway along with road courses and temporary street circuits like the Toronto Indy. You can keep up with the latest news on the CASCAR Super Series by logging onto the website at http://www.cascar.ca/.
BROWN EARNS FIFTH PLACE HONOURS AT DELAWARE: Brantford Driver Sticks To Game Plan
By Ken Spencer, Marketing and Media Relations, Brown Auto RacingSeptember 5, 2005 – Brantford’s Doug Brown headed to the annual CASCAR Labour Day Weekend classic at Delaware Speedway with a firm game plan. Put his NAPA/Autopro Monte Carlo in a good starting position, stay with the leaders throughout the race and avoid any problems that are bound to occur in 300-laps of short oval track racing –especially with 32 cars in the starting field.
The veteran racer stuck to his game plans and was rewarded with a fifth-place finish in an event that saw him qualify seventh on Saturday then wade through the Sunday event that featured seven lead changes, 17 cautions and one red flag for a multi-car accident on lap 232.
Doug ran in the top-ten throughout most of the afternoon but it was a daring last lap, last corner move that earned him full marks for his best ever finish in Super Series competition.
With the white flag waving, Doug was running seventh in a tight chain entering turns one and two and down the fast backstretch at the London area half-mile. But when Wyoming’s Dave Whitlock washed high into turn three causing DJ Kennington of St. Thomas to brake momentarily, Brown darted to the inside and leapfrogged his way into fifth place at the finish line.
“It was the invitation I was looking for,” the perspiration drenched driver commented “and I wasn’t about to turn it down. It was just a case of right foot down and hold on especially when (Dave) Whitlock got into my right side fenders.”
The strong finish moved Brown into an eleventh-place tie with Milverton’s Scott Steckley in the national standings. Steckley was one of seven drivers caught in the lap 232 accident. They now both trail Mt. Hopes Dave Jacombs by 50 points heading to Cayuga 2000 Speedway for this Saturday’s rescheduled event that was postponed by rain three weeks ago. The Super Series schedule wraps up at Kawartha Speedway south of Peterborough on September 17th-18th.
Stouffville’s Peter Gibbons returned to victory lane with the win at Delaware edging out points’ leader Don Thomson of Hamilton and Jeff Lapcevich of Caistor Centre for the victory. Ron Beauchamp of Windsor finished fourth followed by Brown (5th), Kennington (6th), Pete Shepherd of Brampton (7th), Whitlock (8th), JR Fitzpatrick of Cambridge (9th) and Brad Graham, one lap down (10th).
For more information visit www.cascar.ca or www.dougbrown.net.
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