Best news I've heard all week!

A few days ago, I posted something about one of the Big Three getting out of NASCAR.

Today at Phoenix, John Fernandez, the Director of Dodge's Motorsports Operations, said that the rumour doesn't involve Dodge.

Speaking of Dodge, I saw a new Caliber at a gas station the other day. Looks sharp.

But getting back to the point.... Dodge is staying in NASCAR. And they're one of the biggest supporters of Canadian racing. Makes you want to buy one of their cars and let them know you appreciate their support, doesn't it?


JOHN FERNANDEZ (Director, Dodge Motorsports Operations)

COMMENT ON WEB SITE REPORT THAT ONE OF THE BIG THREE MANUFACTURERS IS GOING TO LEAVE NASCAR “I’ve heard the rumor, but obviously we’re not involved in it. I haven’t heard anything from General Motors or Ford that indicates they’re in any jeopardy. Obviously their total companies right now are having a tough time in the marketplace, but that’s happened before and it’ll happen again I’m sure. As far as I know, GM and Ford are still committed to NASCAR and committed to racing in the Cup Series. As far as I know right now it’s only a rumor.”

HOW LONG IS DODGE’S CURRENT COMMITMENT TO NASCAR? “I don’t think there’s anything set out there right now as far as how long we’re committed for. I think we still believe it’s the right place to be to show off the image we’re trying to project for the Dodge brand performance, the capableness of our cars. Quite frankly we’re just getting in position now to win some races and show some strength with our program. They’re starting to mature to the point where hopefully we can take a run at it this year. We’ve built up our drivers to the point where we’ve got four or five capable drivers with some young guys coming along. That’s strong. It’s the second year for the Charger, and it’s starting to show some strength. You’ve heard me say this before. Inherently that’s a better car than we’ve ever had. It’s taken awhile to figure out and there were some complications last year, but I think we’ve shown and demonstrated this year that the car is capable of winning races. We’ve won three of the first seven and we probably should have won Daytona. We had a good enough car to win there, but it was a we just didn’t win kind of thing. I’m pretty comfortable with where we’re at. We’ve got a long way to go before we want to quit.”

- with files from Ray Cooper / Clear!Blue

Autosport hails Canada’s McIntosh as A1GP revelation

Courtesy Stuart Morrison Public Relations

Montreal, Québec (April 21, 2006) – Sean McIntosh’s efforts over the winter behind the wheel of Canada’s entry in the inaugural A1 Grand Prix of Nations caught the attention of many industry observers and media alike, not least the 20-year-old’s sublime drive from last-to-first in Indonesia in February to capture A1 Team Canada’s maiden victory.

With the first ever ‘World Cup of Motorsport’ concluding in China earlier this month the traditional period of reflection has now kicked in with Autosport magazine running a season review in this week’s edition, published Thursday April 20th. The world-famous weekly motorsport publication, in addition to reviewing all the action on-track from a thrilling first season of A1GP competition, compiled its own top-ten driver ranking for the class of 05-06 placing A1 Team Canada’s Sean McIntosh seventh overall from a stellar line-up of international talent, Sean contesting the first eight rounds before handing over to Patrick Carpentier for the final three events. In reviewing Sean’s impressive A1GP campaign, where he led Canada to 10th overall in the final Nations Standings.

Autosport stated: “For a driver only called up with days to spare before Round 1, Formula Renault UK runner-up Sean McIntosh was one of the revelations of A1GP. Understandably out of his depth at Brands Hatch but he was on the podium at the second meeting at the EuroSpeedway Lausitz. His win in his final race of the season f om the back of the grid in Indonesia was deserved.” r rit s r- In addition to reviewing the A1GP season, this week’s Autosport also previews the 2006 World Series by Renault which starts next weekend, 29th-30th April, at Zolder in Belgium.

Sean graduates to the European-based World Series by Renault with the Belgian KTR squad following two highly successful seasons racing in the Formula Renault UK Championship. Looking at Sean’s credentials as he continues his career path to Formula One Autosport commented: “McIntosh was one of the stars of A1GP and last year’s Formula Renault runner-up has been quick in testing. His A1 experience should also make the transition to World Series level easier and he should prove himself to be Jacques Villeneuve’s long-term successor as Canada’s best driver.”

Sean’s international successes haven’t gone unnoticed here in his home country either.

Canada’s Inside Track Magazine featured McIntosh’s Indonesian A1GP victory as the cover story on its April edition and with one week of voting left in the annual Inside Track Readers’ Choice Awards, Sean’s burgeoning open-wheel career could be set for further acknowledgement by Canadian motorsport fans. Eligible in three categories, ‘Canadian Road Racer of the Year’, ‘Up and Coming Road Racer of the Year’ and ‘Overall Canadian Racer of the Year’, fans can vote for Sean by logging on to http://www.insidetracknews.com/ and follow the link to the Readers’ Choice Awards ballot page. Voting closes at 6pm on Friday April 28th.

Castrol game online

Castrol has an online racing game called the Speed Challenge.

I'm not proud of my score....

Click here to give it a try.

The name game... Auto Clearing Something.....

Saskatoon's old track was called Bridge City Speedway.

Readers of Inside Track will know they've built a shiny new facility that will be ready for action in 2006. And they also have a new presenting sponsor (Auto Clearing Chrysler Superstore).... so they're looking for a little help on what to call the place.

Auto Clearing Chrysler Superstore has pre-approved some options. The link to the multiple-choice voting page is here.

Capital City Speedway

Several new updates on the Capital City Speedway site today, including sponsor news and other pre-season happenings at the Ottawa-area track. It's great to see so much activity and positive energy at this facility!

New name for Edmonton strip

What was once Budweiser Motorsports Park.... is now Castrol Raceway.

MERRITTVILLE SPEEDWAY: DRIVERS JOINING MERRITTVILLE KIDS CLUB FOR UNIQUE NEW BIKE DRAWS

Thorold, Ontario … At each Meridian Credit Union Branch, employees are so totally focused on making people smile.

When it comes to their involvement in Merrittville Speedway’s 55th Anniversary Kid’s Club – younger race fans will be smiling all season long at the track.

Meridian Credit Union provides a refreshed and reinvented approach to neighborhood banking and that philosophy will be echoed throughout the 2006 Kids Club.

“Leaders Mike and Beth are preparing a newly designed program to challenge the junior race fan,” relates (GM) Erica Bicknell, adding, “ activities that will expand their racing knowledge will highlight the year.”

Many new events will be unveiled on the Kids Club Registration Night Saturday June 10th prior to the start of the Financial Care Group Night of racing.

One of the newest most exciting promotions is the Bike Contest that will see 7 Bikes given away throughout the season via draws.

What makes the new for 2006 Bike Contest so unique is that 7 Race Teams have joined the program and each of the bikes will resemble one of the driver’s cars.

“ Through-out the season,” reveals Bicknell, “ Kid’s Club Members will receive ballots based on their participation in events … the more events … the more chances to win … and we’re so proud of the drivers too and their sponsors.”

The 7 drivers are Paul Klager and Justin Sharp from the Premier Mademoiselle Fitness Centers Classic Mod Lites, the ‘Candy Man’ Mike Dooley from the Hoosier Stocks, defending champion Wayne Conn and Brad Rouse from the Original Pizza Logs Sportsmen Division, Scott Wood from the L. St. Amand Enterprises 358 Modified Division and DIRT Motorsports winningest Big Block Driver Alan Johnson.

“When Alan heard news of this contest,” said Nancy Bicknell, “ although he’ll only be with us one night – he was real excited and eager to do his part and what can we say about our own drivers … hats off to them.”

The 2006 Edition of the Meridian Credit Union Kids Club will kick off on Saturday June 17th when SMS Machine are hosts of the night that also features a Demolition Derby. There will be Members-only meetings and activities and it’s a great way for younger race fans to make new friends at the track and to meet drivers and key staff members.

Also making its debut this season are weekly Kid’s Club Quizzes that will prove to be both entertaining and educational for all Junior Race Fans. Completion of the quizzes will earn Kid’s Club Members additional raffle tickets for the Bike Draws. Junior Race Fans that are not Kid’s Club Members are eligible to participate in each Weekly Quiz.

The 2006 Kid’s Club will conclude Saturday August 26th when RK Shaver CA presents the Awards night and Back to School Buona Pizza Party.

Kids Club application forms are available on line but will only be accepted on the Registration Night at the Speedway.

The 2006 Kids Club Membership fee for children from 8 – 12 years of age is $25.00 while for those under 8 – it is $5.00.

The one time fee includes a Membership Card and Meridian Kids Club T-shirt and allows the Kids Club Member free admission to all 2006 Dirt Weekly Racing Series Events.

Get in touch with the Meridian Credit Union today and start your revolution of one. Meridian Credit Union has 43 branches across Ontario delivering worry-free banking. For a branch nearest you call 1-800-303-3258 or visit www.meridiancu.ca or www.revolutionofone.ca.

For further information on Merrittville Speedway’s Meridian Credit Union Kids Club and any other highlight of the 55th Anniversary Season call 905-892-8266 or visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com.

For further Information contact – Jim Irvine 905-892-8266

Ex-Jordan Exec eyeing Penske's UK Racing Factory

By James Neilson

Trevor Carlin, whose Carlin team fielded Formula 1 driver Takuma Sato in Formula 3, has hinted he is looking to purchase Roger Penske's dormant factory in Poole, England.

Carlin had earlier revealed he was one of the team principles to put his name down for an application to run in the 2008 Formula 1 World Championship.

The cost of running a Formula 1 team looks set to be drastically reduced with yet another new technical package awaiting approval from teams for the beginning of the 2008 season.

Penske's Poole factory was the birthplace of multiple Indy 500 and title-winning racecars piloted by the likes of Rick Mears, Emerson Fittipaldi, Al Unser Jr. and Canada's own Paul Tracy.

Penske stopped building their own cars in 1999 after they struggled to compete with Lola and the now defunct Reynard in CHAMPCAR.

Photo Courtesy of www.indycarseries.com.

XM Canada signs exclusive multi-year distribution agreement with Honda Canada to factory-install satellite radio

Courtesy Natalie Brown

Toronto XM Canada (TSX: XSR.SV), the number one satellite radio service in the country, announced today an exclusive multi-year agreement with Honda Canada Inc. to factory-install XM Canada radios in Honda and Acura models starting with select 2007 model year vehicles and expanding to a wider range of products for the 2008 model year. Honda Canada is the country s fifth largest automaker, with sales of more than 150,000 vehicles for 2005.

Beginning this fall, all 2007 Acura MDX and TL models will come standard with factory-installed XM Canada satellite radios with three months complimentary XM Canada service. Honda Canada will expand the availability of XM Canada across the Honda and Acura lineup over the next few years.

Canadian Acura and Honda vehicles equipped with XM will engage owners with up to 100 channels of Canada s premium satellite radio service, including the deepest commercial-free playlists, NHL, PGA and Major League Baseball play-by-play game coverage, groundbreaking news, as well as the biggest names in music, comedy and entertainment.

"This new partnership with Honda Canada represents an important milestone for the rapid growth of XM Canada satellite radio, giving us a huge boost in penetrating Canada s listening audience, said Stephen Tapp, XM Canada president and COO. Honda buyers demand quality and innovation and that s what this partnership is about providing consumers with the best possible in-vehicle entertainment experience.

"Offering a high level of personalization in vehicles is just one part of Honda s strategy to bring innovation and advanced technology features to each Honda and Acura customer, said Honda Canada Executive Vice President, Jim Miller. Acura TL customers will be first to enjoy enhanced driving enjoyment when their satellite radio selection is broadcast in CD quality from the digital sound system, a standard feature in every TL.

About Canadian Satellite Radio Holdings Inc.
Canadian Satellite Radio Holdings (CSR) Inc. (TSX: XSR.SV), the first company to offer satellite radio in Canada, offers superior signal coverage across Canada and operates as XM Canada" through its subsidiary Canadian Satellite Radio Inc. CSR creates unique Canadian content to be broadcast in Canada and the United States and has an exclusive Canadian licence from U.S.-based XM Satellite Radio Inc. (NASDAQ: XMSR), the leading satellite radio provider in the U.S. with more than 6.5 million subscribers.

CSR, through XM Canada, offers listeners up to 100 channels for Canada s lowest monthly subscription fee $12.99. XM Canada offers the most commercial-free music and the most NHL" game, PGA TOUR" and MLB" coverage, and news, talk, sports and children s programming across Canada. XM Canada launched its French and English satellite channels for all of Canada and the United States to hear on November 22, 2005. After next season, XM will become the exclusive provider of NHL games on satellite radio. To find out more about Canadian Satellite Radio Inc., visit our website at www.cdnsatrad.com. To subscribe to XM Canada online or for more information about XM Canada's programming line-up and radio choice, visit www.xmradio.ca.

About Honda Canada Inc.
Honda is the world’s preeminent maker of engines for automobiles, motorcycles and power equipment. With 124 manufacturing facilities in 28 countries worldwide, Honda now attracts nearly 20 million customers annually. Honda Canada manufactures the Honda Ridgeline, Civic and Pilot, and the Acura CSX and MDX at its two plants in Alliston, Ontario. For more information, visit www.honda.ca.

Come and experience what Kart racing is all about

Courtesy Brian Grant, Manager, Calgary Kart Racing Club

(Calgary,April 19) This Saturday, April 22, the Calgary Kart Racing Club is holding a Karting Experience Day at the Calgary Speed Park for prospective members and competitors.

If you have never driven a Kart before or are interested in learning more about the sport of Kart racing then come down to the track and take a spin. Members of the CKRC will be on hand to help out and answer any of your questions.

As well equipment will be on sale in the paddock for those looking for deals on racing equipment.

The Calgary Speed Park is located at 12740 68th Street S.E. in the southwest corner of Race City Motorsport Park.

The Calgary Kart Racing Club is non-profit organization formed in the late seventies to promote the sport of Kart racing in Southern Alberta. Kart racing is a fun safe sport for families and individuals of all ages and skills. The Kart club holds twelve races a year at their own facility, the Calgary Speed Park, providing plenty of time behind the wheel for both new and experienced drivers.

Tiger Woods.... going racing!

Tiger Woods' caddy, Steve Williams is a avid race car driver. Tiger's heading to New Zealand to race in a charity event after a challenge from Williams.

FROM AP.

WELLINGTON, New Zealand -- Tiger Woods will race a high-powered dirt-track car Monday in a charity race on New Zealand's North Island.

Woods, in New Zealand to attend caddie Steve Williams' wedding, accepted Williams' challenge to drive in the event.

"I've done other things. I've thrown a baseball a few times and thrown a couple of coins here and there," Woods told a news conference in Auckland on Thursday. "This is a bit more physical."

Williams is an enthusiastic racer when not working for Woods and is the New Zealand champion in modified saloon cars.

He said Woods will head one of two five-man teams in the charity event, a 12-lap competition at Huntly. Funds raised in the event will go to the Steve Williams Foundation, which provides coaching and educational opportunities.

Woods said bumping between cars on the tight and narrow circuit was "part of the deal" and his insurance was "taken care of.

"If they knock me off, I can knock them off," he said. "The whole idea is to have fun." Woods said fellow golf pros would not be surprised by his auto racing debut.

"A few guys out there on tour do race quite a bit," he said, citing as one example drag-racing compatriot Kenny Perry.

Williams said he had tried for some time to get Woods behind the wheel. "He said that looks like a lot of fun and I said, 'Don't worry, one day I'll get you in one of those things,' " Williams said.

... more at the link above

MOTOX: Andre Huard Seriously Injured. Assistance fund established

I received this note from the guys at Inside MotoX....

KITCHENER, ON – Junior rider, Andre Huard, was critically injured this past weekend while competing in his first +25 moto at RJ Motosport.

Huard suffered compression fractures in his spine, some spinal cord damage and is suffering mid-chest down paralysis. Huard, 30, lives in Kitchener, Ontario. He is married and needs all our support to get though this very serious injury.

A fund is being set up and a donation account and a list of immediate family needs is being compiled. Extensive home modifications will be needed to make the entire family home wheelchair accessible. If you or anyone you know may be able to assist the Huards in any way please contact Brett@cmrcracing.com.

Account Name: Brett Lee in Trust for Andre Huard

Bank: CIBCAccount number 06752/72/-71530

Antoine Bessette to test Daytona Prototype with Michael Shank Racing

Courtesy Service Presse

Montreal, Quebec, April 19. – Quebec racing driver Antoine Bessette will test a Lexus-Riley Daytona Prototype with Michael Shank Racing this Thursday at Virginia International Raceway while the teams get ready with a test day before the fifth round of the 2006 Grand Am Rolex series. The 24 year-old St-Bruno, Quebec driver is still considering every opportunity to drive this year and he could not pass on a chance to test such a sensational racing machine with a professional team like MSR.

“This is a wonderful occasion I just couldn’t let go, claims Bessette who raced to fourth place and two victories in the Toyota Atlantic Championship last years. I am thankful to Michael Shank for letting me drive one of his cars. Michael told me somebody had very good words about me and he was confident I would do well with such a powerful machine. I think there is a new trend in DP class now where younger drivers like Valiante, Dalziel, McDowell and Fogarty get the chance to show their skills. I hope I can get my chance to drive a DP on a few occasions this year.”

Michael Shank Racing
A former driver himself, Michael Shank enjoys a pretty good reputation as a team owner in Quebec for having raced in Toyota Atlantic championship on many occasions at circuit Gilles-Villeneuve or the Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières with drivers like Kenny Wilden or Sam Hornish Jr.

Still eyeing Champ Car
Antoine Bessette remains confident he will get his chance in Champ Car next year. “I want to stay fit this year and we will use every opportunity to drive, he adds. We’re still considering Atlantic and are preparing a package for 2007 in Champ Car. But this week, I will be focused on that MSR Lexus-Riley DR machine and give it all I have.”

A Gilles-Villeneuve award winner
Winners of two rounds last year in Montreal and Toronto with Team Polestar, Bessette was a Gilles-Villeneuve award winner from the Toyota Atlantic series for the driver who possesses extraordinary ability, has that special "star quality" and who has been distinguished through sportsmanship, dedication and perseverance in the face of disappointment" and Best Canadian Race Driver from the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame. Bessette admits there is a possibility to see him enter all three Canadian Atlantic Champ Car events.

You can visit Antoine Bessette’s web site at www.bessetteracing.com.

Andreacchi revved up for 2006 PMRA season

"I can’t wait to drop the hammer in the Skull Motorsports Studebaker at the PMRA events.”

Courtesy Bruce F. Mehlenbacher

MAPLE, ON (April 19, 2006) – With a new Al Billes Hemi power plant, Ralph Andreacchi plans to make his mark in 2006. The Ontario driver of the Skull Motorsports 1953 Studebaker Pro Modified is confident he and his team will be in the winner’s circle this season at Pro Modified Racing Association and Ontario Street Car Association (OSCA) events.

“Our new engine program includes an Al Billes bullet that ran 6.03-seconds at 236 mph last season,” stated Andreacchi. “I’m very excited to get started, we should be in good shape for this year’s PMRA season.”

Ralph Andreacchi’s car is powered by an Al Billes 526-cubic inch Brad Anderson Hemi engine, a Kobelco 14-71 K-11 Superman Supercharger, a Watermen fuel system, linked to a Lenco three-speed transmission with a AFT Dual disc clutch.

“To be under the Al Billes umbrella is great,” he added. “Al is one of the best engineers in the racing game. With his expertise and research and development we will be just fine. I can’t wait to drop the hammer in the Skull Motorsports Studebaker at the PMRA events.”

The Skull Motorsports entry is sponsored by VP Racing Fuels, with thanks to Al Billes Racing, Performance Engineering, Ultimate Performance, Fast Eddie Racewear, Le Chassis, J.E. Construction, and P&R Racing.

Oshawa Motor Sport Club: Lapping Days

The Oshawa Motor Sport Club is hosting a Lapping Day on Saturday, April 29 at the Mosport DDT track. Registration starts at 8:00 a.m. and will be followed by the drivers’ meeting at 9 a.m.

There will be prizes and giveaways at the event, as well as a BBQ (starting at 4:30 p.m.). The cost is $125 for club members and $135 for non-members.

The OMSC will host another Lapping Day on Sunday, May 28.

For information, call Dave Stokes @ 416-580-2159 or Bruce Gray @ 905-697-1244.

Nuts & Bolts... Wednesday Edition

In no particular order....

Mike Sutton of Tiemersma Motorsports has sent out a new e-mail, noting that the team's cars are ready to go. Sutton invites you to stop by and have a look .... Sunset Speedway's website reminds you that their display at the Kozlov Mall is on through this weekend... Nearby Barrie Speedway will host CASCAR's MOPAR Day at the end of this month. And soon after, major work will commence on the track. Barrie has practice days this weekend... Lucas Oil Flamboro Speedway's website has a new look. The webmaster invites you to 'Feel the Roar' as the season approaches... The OSCAAR Outlaws site has a new feature - by Sandy MacFarlane and Don McLeod - interviewing racer Pee Wee Evans as he prepares for the upcoming campaign... Our editor, Mark Atkinson, pointed me toward a story on Autoextremist.com that says that one manufacturer might be contemplating pulling out of Cup. Sounds like someone doesn't see the point of forking out large to pretend that the "Car of Tomorrow" has anything to do with the Monte Carlo. Can't really argue with that, but it's hard to fathom that the France family would go ahead with a program that would send GM packing... The PMRA's site has a new story on Ralph Andreacchi's pre-season confidence...

MEDIA EVENT: Stormin' Norman to Aid Kids Organization of Peterborough & Northumberland

At noon on April 22, 'Stormin' Norm Mayhew and and the Stormin Performance Motorsports team will unveil their new steed in the bid for 2006 Lucas Cup Late Model Stock Car Championship at Northumberland Mall, Cobourg Centre Court.

Furthermore in unveiling SPM s new car it will immediately become clear who will benefit from this year's sponsor support.

As a teaser Norm Mayhew will be driving this year on behalf of a cause related regional association benefiting some Children of Peterborough/Northumberland community.

Also, one of the key sponsors will be on hand to announce a corporate challenge. We invite any and all persons and companies to be on hand.

For additional information, contact Jerry Birney // General Manager, Stormin' Performance Motorsports C/O The Amara Company Limited (905) 372-4371 admin@amaracompany.com

Jamie Holtom looking forward to Grand-Am Cup Round Two at VIR

Courtesy Josh Kive

Jamie Holtom is excited for the second round of the Grand-Am Cup championship, taking place April 21-23 at the historic VIRginia International Raceway. When the green flag flies there will be no less than 94 cars on track, 43 of them in the Street Tuner class.

“That there are so many cars set to take part in this race, speaks volumes for the Grand-Am Cup. It really shows that it’s the best place to race”, commented Jamie, “We’ve been strong here before, running well last time Grand-Am raced VIR. I think we can pull it off this year and bring home our ClearSCADA Chevy Cobalt on the top of the podium. I can’t wait to get on track.”

In endurance races with as many competitors as Grand-Am Cup, it’s important to be paired with a driver who keeps the paint on the car and the car on the road. Driving alongside Holtom in the #01 Cobalt will be Eric Curran, a driver well up to the task.

“I love VIR, it’s a track that I know well and can be very fast at. I’m sure that we’ll be in the hunt. I know that with Eric (Curran) partnering me in the car, we’re going to be one of the fastest and consistent pairings on the track. Both of us can throw down flyers, but more important will be to keep out of the guard-rails. Our Chevrolet Cobalt SS Supercharged cars can go the distance and will be tough to beat”, said Jamie.

Last season saw Holtom fifth fastest in the rain and running in second when a mechanical DNF took the ClearSCADA car out of the running. This time around Jamie wants to turn around that luck and log a good result.

“Our goal for the weekend is to come out strong and get as many points as possible for Chevy in the manufacturers chase. Having worked out last season’s bugs, I know, that if we stay out of trouble, a win is well within our potential.”

Jamie is backed by longtime sponsor Control Microsystems, SCADAPack and BK Designs Speedpaint.

Kevin Lacroix joins the Star Mazda series

Courtesy Service Presse

Saint-Eustache, Quebec, April 18. – 17 year-old rising star Kevin Lacroix has come to terms with Johnny Walko Racing (JWR) from Trafford, Pennsylvania and he will enter the Star Mazda series for the remainder of the calendar. The 2005 Formula BMW USA runner-up will step up to the second ladder of the series leading to the major leagues. He is testing this week with his new team at BeaveRun, a facility close to Pittsburgh. Although he missed the maiden race in Sebring last month, Lacroix claims he can catch up and race for the title of this very challenging series.

”I’m very happy to join JWR at this point," claims Kevin. "This is the kind of team that will always give me a competitive car. Mister Walko enjoys a very high reputation in motorsports and his crew has done an outstanding job with the Mazda in the past, earning second place overall in the championship last year. I will make the most from those two days at BearveRun where I raced before. I want to get as much seat time as possible and benefit from every lap with my crew. There is a big difference between my former Bimmer at 140 horsepower and the rotary 240 HP of this quick Mazda. I want to be ready for the Grand Prix in Houston. To be able to race in Montreal and Trois-Rivieres only adds to the pleasure of entering that series.”

Walko Racing
For Johnny Walko, he’s back to his own team operations. After a few years with Dan Anderson and many successes in different series, the engineer has decided to run his own team again in 2006. He even kept on board the same team that led Robbie Pecorari to a second place and best rookie in the championship. JWR and Lacroix will have another two days of testing at the end of the month at Mid-Ohio before they move on to Houston for the next race.

PAUL TRACY TAKING HIS ‘CREW’ TO TALLADEGA

MOORESVILLE, NC (April 18, 2006) – Two months after making his debut at Daytona International Speedway, Paul Tracy and the #34 American Crew/Sport Clips Chevrolet will once again grace the high-banks of a restrictor-plate race track. On April 29th, he will tackle the 2.66-mile Talladega Superspeedway in hopes of settling unfinished business.



Paul started Daytona in the 37th position, but promptly made his way into the Top 10 before being tapped by John Andretti halfway through the race and being forced to settle for a 24th place finish.

“I really want to thank American Crew and Sport Clips for supporting me. This will be our third race together and I am looking forward to taking them to the front,” Paul said. “Daytona was both fun and educational and I’m looking forward to taking what I learned and using that information to help me do well at Talladega.” He continued, “The draft is the great equalizer and it made Daytona fun. Carl (Edwards) passed me and stuck his hand out the window and signaled for me to follow him, so I sucked up behind him and we caught the front pack of cars.”

One thing is certain and that is Paul Tracy is not interested in hanging out in the back at Talladega. “At Daytona and Talladega you always have guys whose philosophy is to hang out in the back and wait for the wrecks to happen. I’ve never hung out in the back in my entire career and I’m not going to start next week at Talladega. At Daytona, I missed a lot of wrecks by going to the front. You never saw Dale Earnhardt hang out in the back, so I’m not hanging out in the back,” he said.

“At Daytona, I accomplished what I went there for,” said Tracy. “I ran from the back to the front and hopefully gained the respect of the other drivers. All I wanted to do was go down there and get some experience and learn everything that I could about driving a stock car. I had a lot of fun and I am looking forward to Talladega next weekend.”

Sport Clips, Inc. is a Georgetown, TX-based enterprise that currently has 330 stores in 28 states. Targeting men and boys, Sport Clips provides high-quality haircuts in a fun sports environment, complete with TVs at every Stylist’s station tuned to sports. Every Sport Clips has “guy smart” Stylists who focus on providing the highest level of service to every client. Sport Clips is the Official Haircutter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), whose logo will be prominently featured on Tracy’s car. For a location near you or for franchise information, please visit: www.SportClips.com.

American Crew continues to lead the way in the men’s grooming business. With a passionate commitment to men’s grooming, their purpose is to bring men into salons, provide them with a great new experience and show them new ways of incorporating style into their everyday lives. American Crew recognizes the growing number of men that are concerned with their appearance and who want to look their very best. This trend of image-conscious men spans all ages and backgrounds. American Crew has all of their grooming interests in mind. For more information on American Crew, please visit www.AmericanCrew.com.

From Doug Barnette // Player Management International, Inc.

Thanks to PAINKILLERZ.CA

... for posting our press release on the release of the annual Inside Track Canadian Speedway Guide.

DIRT NE Hall Of Fame Inductions: Nancy Bicknell to share “Outstanding Women in Racing Award”

THOROLD, ON – The 2006 DIRT MotorSports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies will take place Sunday, May 28 at 2 p.m. in the Hall of Fame & Classic Car Museum in Weedsport, NY.

Following the Induction Ceremonies, the weekly Stock Car racing program at Cayuga County Fair Speedway will be highlighted by the 100-lap Bill McNabb Hall of Fame Classic, the third scheduled points event in the Advance Auto Parts Modified Super DIRT Series.

Co-recipients of the fifth annual "Outstanding Woman in Racing" award are former racer and reporter Barb Anderson, Bicknell Race Products fixture Nancy Bicknell, and short-track competitor and photographer Kim Jennejohn.

A date with 'Mr. Small-Block' in the early 1970s turned into a motorsports career for Nancy Bicknell as she has become synonymous with Bicknell Racing Products and speedway activity throughout the country during the past quarter-century.

With marriage to Canadian Hall of Famer Pete Bicknell finally becoming a reality in 1980 – their wedding date was twice postponed due to business obligations – Nancy became a driving force behind turning Pete’s Automotive from a Auto Service shop into a Race Shop in 1988 when BRP Canada was formed.

In 1989, BRP USA was established and further expansion of corporate interests resulted in the creation of BRP South (Thomasville, NC) with products currently sold from coast to coast throughout the entire year. Along with partners Randy and Tracey Williamson, the Bicknell’s took control of Merrittville (Ont.) Speedway in 2003 and today daughter Erica serves as track general manager.

In recognition of Nancy’s Induction, DIRT MotorSports in offereing an exclusive opportunity to all Merrittville Speedway fans. Fans who attend Merrittville Speedway will be given a $5.00 discount coupon for the Advance Auto Parts Super Dirt Series at the Cayuga County Fair Speedway for the evening of Hall of Fame Induction. Coupons will be available at the Novelty Booth each week prior to the event or by calling the Speedway office at 905.892.8266.

- From Merrittville Speedway

Open Practice: Peterborough Speedway

Peterborough Speedway will hold an open practice for all divisions this Saturday (Apr. 22) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tires and fuel will be available at the track.

Alan Labrosse on the record

Robin Miller's new column talks about the "sabotage" of last year's Champ Car race in Montreal. It also has an interview with 2006 event promoter Alan Labrosse, who says, "I don't think we'd be racing in Montreal had I not stepped in so I'm glad I did."

No word on the support classes for the event.

... more on the column at the link above.

'First Lady of Racing' passes away

Louise Smith, winner of 38 modified events from 1945-56 passed away after a battle with cancer in Greenville, North Carolina, among family and friends.


Inside Track sends our regards to her family.

http://msn.foxsports.com/nascar/story/5512318

(Photo Courtesy AP)

Phoenix Race Cars, Inc. Announces Updated Sports Racer

Courtesy Marc Miller Promotions

PHOENIX, AZ (April 13, 2006) --- Phoenix Race Cars, Inc. has announced its newest entry into the highly competitive Sports Racer market. The new car, dubbed the Phoenix SR-07, is the next-generation Sports Racer from the manufacturer based in Phoenix, AZ. Changes to the new car are extensive and are the result of over a year of evaluation and re-engineering, culminating in a car which will be competitive at any level of racing.

The car is being made available in two configurations designed for the SCCA Club Racing market. The SRD-07 is ready to enter the SCCA DSR category and comes equipped with an approximately 175hp, race-prepped Suzuki GSX-R1000 engine built by George Dean’s Racing Engines. For the CSR crowd, the SRC-07 is available with a 200hp, race-prepped Kawasaki ZX-12R engine also built by George Dean’s Racing Engines. A roller, dubbed the SRX-07 can also be made available for those that wish to install their own engine package.

“We have put a considerable amount of time in developing the Phoenix SR-07 and we think potential buyers will see the value in the car right away,” said General Manager of Phoenix Race Cars, Matt Conrad. “We targeted several aerodynamic and chassis improvements for this car and are very pleased with the results.”

Major breakthroughs in the car have come in a significant weight reduction, dramatic improvements in the aerodynamics package as well as a minor update to the chassis to improve overall handling characteristics and to also increase rigidity and strength.

“Essentially, we’ve nearly doubled the downforce on the car with only a 10% increase in drag,” said Conrad. “Combine that with a stronger, lighter and more rigid chassis and we clearly have a car that will be easily competitive against other brands that are out there at a significantly lower price.”

A full list of updates and a detailed spec sheet with pricing is coming soon and will be available at http://www.phoenixracecars.com/, or contact Matt Conrad at Phoenix Race Cars, Inc. at 623-581-3222.

About Phoenix Race Cars, Inc.
As the constructor of the Phoenix DSR-1 and CSR-1 Sports Racers, it is the mission of Phoenix Race Cars to provide our customers with a reliable and highly competitive race car at an affordable price compared to the competition. We are also proud to provide an American-built racecar. Phoenix Race Cars, Inc. is located in Phoenix, Arizona. More information can be found at http://www.phoenixracecars.com/.

Like brother, like brother...

Not wanting to be left out, Kyle Busch recently had his own run-in with the police.

New Goodyear Belts Enhance Cup Car Performance

With 25 NASCAR seasons under its belt, Goodyear Engineered Products is tapping its experience to introduce two more automotive belts that can help race teams save energy under the hood.

Goodyear Gatorback timing belts and Goodyear Super Torque Pd oil pump drive belts are making their track debuts this season to enhance race engine performance, according to Mike Gregg, chief engineer for Goodyear’s power transmission products. Gregg said stock car racing is all about finding a little bit more power, while sticking to rules and regulations. “Gatorback and Super Torque Pd do just that,” he said.

The Gatorback eight-millimeter tooth-pitch cam drive belt was developed specifically for NASCAR to withstand stretching during a race. Gregg said conventional belts tend to wilt under torturous race conditions, which can cause stretching, slippage and loss of energy. “Gatorback is constructed with a revolutionary heat resistant compound that reduces friction, which means less energy consumption,” said Gregg. “It also withstands 300 degrees Fahrenheit, well above engine temperatures from 225 to 275 degrees experienced during a race.” The belt cord is made from high-tensile-strength glass fiber that is 60 percent stronger than glass cord used in conventional belts.

“Its unique construction provides added strength and stability critical to smooth tooth-and-sprocket engagement needed for synchronous power transfer,” said Gregg. “From green to checkered flags, the new Gatorback belt delivers precise engine timing, while consuming less energy.” More power is important, but a product that requires less space also makes a NASCAR engine builder happy, which is exactly what the Super Torque Pd oil pump drive belt delivers.

Originally designed for industrial applications, the five-millimeter tooth-pitch belt uses smaller pulleys, which reduce the size of a drive system. The belt’s compactness and efficiency give engine builders a greater choice of sprocket ratios between oil pump drives and engines.

“Gatorback and Super Torque Pd are designed to operate components more efficiently, saving power for another use,” said Gregg. He said several NASCAR NEXTEL Cup teams are equipped with both belts, but it’s too early in the season to divulge names because “it’s one of the secrets of the track.”

All teams have access to the new belts; additional cars are scheduled to be equipped with the products, as the season progresses. The timing and oil pump belts join Goodyear Gatorback Poly-V belts, the unanimous choice of component drive belts for every NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series car on the track.

Goodyear uses information gained from racing, including feedback from NASCAR NEXTEL Cup engine builders and crew chiefs, to expedite next-generation products for racing. At the same time, the track-to-street connection provides information to improve Goodyear belts that race fans can purchase at installers and do-it-yourself auto parts stores.

Goodyear Engineered Products is the exclusive NASCAR Performance licensee of automotive aftermarket belts and hose, including Goodyear Gatorback Poly-V and v-belts, timing belts and curved radiator hose. Visit www.goodyearbeltsandhose.com for additional information.

HAMILTON SPECTATOR: Now running regular motorsports columns by Tim Miller

The Hamilton Spectator recently stepped up its racing coverage by running regular Thursday columns by veteran motorsports journalist Tim Miller.

Last Thursday, Miller wrote about sprint car racing in the region. And he nicely plugged the recently released Inside Track Canadian Speedway Guide, which appears as an insert in Volume 10.03 of Inside Track.

Thanks Tim!

Pete Shepherd's upcoming races

A few weeks back, it looked like Pete Shepherd III might be making his NASCAR Truck Series debut at the end of April, at Gateway. However, the major personnel changes at Roush mean that the script has been altered.

Now, it looks like Petey will make his first Truck Series start at Mansfield on May 27. In the meantime, he will be in the ARCA race at Winchester Speedway (Indiana) on May 7.

Can you say "road trip"?

Shepherd is also finalizing his plans to move to Mooresville, NC for the summer.

RACE CITY: Signs of life

Since last fall, the Race City website contained an ominous message about people getting their vehicles and possessions off the property. That has changed. In addition to promoting the April 21 Secret Street event, it also says, "The 2006 season will begin shortly. The Race City website will be overhauled in the near future."

Good news!

STEELBACK SAUBLE SPEEDWAY: Season Tickets on Sale Now

Steelback Sauble Speedway fans can walk past the lines all summer by purchasing a season pass to the track.

GRAND-AM CUP: Team Cobalt Faces Biggest Challenge to Date at VIR

Grand-Am Cup has Series Record 43 Street Tuner Class Entries

ALTON, Va., April 17, 2006 – With experience and two more entries on its side this time, five Cobalt SS Supercharged cars will take the green flag for the 2.5 hour Street Tuner class race in this Saturday’s Grand-Am Cup Series event at VIRginia International Raceway. But unlike last year when Mother Nature derailed the team’s rookie-season bid for a runner-up finish in the final point standings, Team Cobalt expects to be on the podium this weekend against one of the strongest entry lists ever for an ST class race.

A series record 43 Street Tuner cars, representing 15 models from nine worldwide manufacturers will be competing for the win in the 96-car, two-class field on April 22. This will also be the fourth time in five races the ST class has set a new record for entries.

“The entry list has nine more cars than we raced against at Daytona in January, and several manufacturers have stepped-up their participation with additional cars,” said GM Performance Division’s Ken Wasmer, whose engineering team provides technical support for all Cobalt entrants. “That’s especially true with the manufacturers we view as our strongest competition – Mazda, Acura and Honda.”

With four different manufacturers winning the last four races spanning the 2005 and 2006 seasons, the Street Tuner class is slowly becoming one of the most competitive showcases for manufacturers of small, performance-oriented cars.

“The Cobalt SS Supercharged is competing against the same cars it competes with in the marketplace, and our competition is just as determined on the race track,” Wasmer added. “Our teams have used the three months since the season opener at Daytona to sharpen their setups, and the time spent is really showing up on the stopwatch.”

“Our goal is to win the Manufacturer’s Championship this year, and we really won’t be satisfied with anything less,” said Wasmer.

But first, Team Cobalt must conquer VIR, and it starts with the five entries competing in Saturday’s race.

Two of the Cobalt SS Supercharged cars are race-prepared in Canada by Mike Kuznicki’s Georgian Bay Motorsports team. Eric Curran, the 2002 Grand-Am Cup ST class winner at VIR, and 18-year-old Jamie Holtom share the #01 entry. The team’s #00 car is driven by Jamie’s father, Jim Holtom, and Daniel Colembie.

Jamie Holtom is an up-and-comer on the circuit and the youngest driver to win a race sanctioned by the Grand American Road Racing Association. At age 17-years, 8-months and 20-days-old, Jamie gave the Cobalt its second win of the season last June at Mosport, sharing the win that Father’s Day weekend with his father.

Veteran Tom Lepper of Team Cobalt California drives the #48 Cobalt SS Supercharged with John Trefethen, and Series rookies V. J. Mirzayan and Jack Mardikian race the team’s #98 entry. The final Cobalt entry is the #06 from Powell Motorsports with Ed Magner and Dave Thilenius driving.

Team Cobalt’s competition at VIR comes from the Honda Accord V6, Mazda’s RX-8 and 6 models, Acura’s RXS-S, TSX and Integra, the BMW Z4 and three versions of the BMW 330, Dodge Neon SRT4, Audi A4 Turbo, Mini Cooper S, and Nissan Sentra SE-R.

The GM Performance Division offers all Cobalt SS Supercharged entrants a contingency program along with the engineering technical support currently provided at every Grand-Am Cup race. The program awards contingency money for every Top Five finish: $5,000 to win, $3,000 for second, $2,000 for third, $1,000 for fourth and $500 for fifth place.

Engineered by GM Performance Division, the Cobalt SS Supercharged is the most powerful and agile of the model line, with a suspension developed on Germany’s famed Nurburgring race track and a 2.0-liter ECOTEC Supercharged engine named among the industry’s 10-Best Engines for 2006 by the editors of Ward’s Communications.
GM Performance Division develops compelling, low volume, high-performance production and specialty vehicles, including the 205 hp Chevrolet Cobalt SS Supercharged, 395 hp Chevy Trailblazer SS and 400hp Chevy SSR; the 400 hp CTS-V, 469 hp STS-V and 443 hp XLR-V from the Cadillac V-Series; and the 205 hp Saturn ION Red Line.

From Dave Arnold // arnold communications

Thanks to Sunset Speedway

Just wanted to say a quick 'thanks' to Glenn Lloyd and the guys at Sunset Speedway for their hospitality on Saturday. My wife and I stopped by the track and had a great time karting. There were some Sunset regulars there, too, who couldn't wait until the season opener to hit the track.

Watch Sunset's website to see when they're going to put on more karting dates. It sounds like they'll be out most weekends. Thanks again guys!!!

- G.M.

BRIGHTON SPEEDWAY INTRODUCES ONE-WAY RADIO COMMUNICATION TO ALL CLASSES

BRIGHTON, ON – Quicker response times, reduced secondary incidents and the ability to quickly line up the field after a caution flag will be an added bonus for drivers and the fans at Brighton Speedway Park this season. Introduced in the 2005 season to the Bainer’s Radiator Canadian Modified drivers, RACEceiver one way radios are now required by all drivers at Brighton Speedway Park.

Race Director Tim Whitehead anticipates that the show will be faster, with fewer delays and a safer race environment for everyone in and around the track. The 1600 pre-programmed UHF 450-470 MHz frequencies, designed to listen to one channel at a time with no auto scanning function, allow him to give drivers specific instructions about line ups, and warm them of any cautions on the track.

“The Bainer’s Radiator Canadian Modifed races ran smoothly last year because we could give them directions through the ear piece they all wear. We believe that the other classes, and the fans, will certainly benefit from our increased ability to tell all drivers what may be happening on the 1/3 mile clay oval.” Brighton Speedway Park understands that the RACEceiver has been mandated by 600 Racing, Dirt Motorsports/ World of Outlaws, Southern Ontario Sprints and Weekly Dirt Racing as well as numerous other series and tracks across Canada and the United States.

“We have the desire to stay up to date and current with practices that protect our drivers, while benefiting the fan base. Adapting this technology keeps us in that loop of current practices,” says Whitehead.

The Coca-Cola Full Throttle Season Opener, scheduled for April 29th, will be the first opportunity for everyone to test the system and work with the drivers while in their cars and wearing the ear pieces. The green flag flies at 7:00pm. Admission to the Season Opener is $2.00 with a donation of non-perishables for the local food bank.

For more information about the RACEceivers, or upcoming events at Brighton Speedway Park visit the website at http://www.brightonspeedway.com/, or by telephone at 613.475.1102.

From Brenda Whitehead – Communications Director