Martinsville Speedway Foreign Territory For Villeneuve, Franchitti

MARTINSVILLE, VA (October 18, 2007) – It has been an eye-opening few weeks for ex-open-wheel champions Jacque Villeneuve and Dario Franchitti.
            They have spent their careers racing around the world in exotic places like Monaco and Le Man and Montreal, driving sleek Formula One and Champ Car rocketships. Lately they've been crawling through the windows of boxier stock cars, trying to figure out how to steer the bulkier cars around places like Talladega Super Speedway.
            And it won't get any easier next week for the pair. Both are entered in the Kroger 200 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at Martinsville Speedway on Saturday, October 20.
            For Franchitti, the Kroger 200 will be his first NASCAR start ever … in any series. This year's Indianapolis 500 winner made his stock-car debut in the ARCA race at Talladega Superspeedway last weekend and finished 17th.
            But for Franchitti, who also happens to be the husband of movie star Ashley Judd, Saturday's Kroger 200 will mark his first NASCAR start in any type of vehicle.
            "Obviously, Martinsville will be a completely different animal than Talladega," said the Scotland-born Franchitti, who will drive the entire 2008 Sprint Cup Series in one of Chip Gannasi Racing's Dodges. "We had just 30 laps in the ARCA car before the race last weekend and now we'll try a truck on a short track for the first time.
            Like I've said from the beginning, this is a learning process that will take time. But I think the advantage I've got is that I'm with an experienced team and a group of guys that has been through all of this before with Juan Pablo (Montoya) last year."
            Franchitti will attempt to put a Target Dodge Ram owned by Cunningham Motorsports into the 36-truck Kroger 200 field. Veteran Ganassi Racing crew chief Brian Pattie will be calling the shots for the team.
            Villeneuve had some NASCAR experience, but it all came in the last month.
            Three weeks ago he finished 21st in his truck debut at Las Vegas after starting seventh. He did double duty at Talladega last week, finishing 30th in the truck race and 21st in the NEXTEL Cup race after qualifying sixth.
            He spent most of Thursday testing a Bill Davis Toyota at Caraway Speedway, a weekly track near Asheboro, N.C., that has some similarities to Martinsville's tight half-mile oval.
            "Again, it (Caraway) was another new NASCAR experience for me," said Villeneuve, a former Formula One champion and Indy 500 winner. "The shortest track I'd driven previously was Chicagoland (1.5 miles). Most of my focus has been on the superspeedway track at Talladega, so a 16-second lap was very different. I got up to speed quickly, and was happy with how I ran.
            "The team was happy with what we managed to achieve in a half a day, and I feel ready for Martinsville, albeit I'm sure it will feel very different there with so many other trucks on the track."
Tickets remain for both the SUBWAY 500 on Sunday, October 21, and the Kroger 200 NASACAR Craftsman Truck Series race, on Saturday, October 20, and can be purchased by calling 1.877.RACE.TIX. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.racetickets.com
Ticket prices for the SUBWAY 500 range from $42 to $77. Tickets for the Kroger 200 are $37 in advance and $42 at the gate. Kroger 200 tickets for children ages 6 to 12 are $5.
The SUBWAY 500 weekend kicks off on October 19 with Carilion Pole Day, featuring times trials and practice for the SUBWAY 500. The Kroger 200 is scheduled for October 20 and the SUBWAY 500 on October 21.
 
From Mike Smith; Director, Public Relations, Martinsville Speedway

Grand-Am KONI Challenge Series 2008 Schedule

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (October 12, 2007) – The 2008 Grand-Am KONI Challenge Series race schedule once again showcases the latest in international and American-made high performance sports cars and coupes straight from the showroom floor at top circuits in the United States and Canada. Both the Grand Sport (GS) and Street Tuner (ST) classes will run 10-race championships contested at 11 different events in 2008, Grand-Am officials announced today.

The Grand-Am KONI Challenge Series begins the season in conjunction with the prestigious Rolex 24 At Daytona with the Fresh From Florida 200 (January 25), a combined class three-hour race on the classic road course at Daytona International Speedway.

Split-class races highlight the next several rounds of the calendar. The season hits full swing with the first of two 2008 trips to Virginia International Raceway (April 26), where two KONI Challenge races will support the Rolex Series VIR 400. The KONI Challenge Series joins the Rolex GT class for a third consecutive Memorial Day weekend run at historic Lime Rock Park (May 26) before the first 2008 trip north of the border to Mosport International Raceway (June 15). The Mosport event is the first race of 2008 to showcase the KONI Challenge series without either of the Rolex Series classes.

The ST competitors rejoin the Rolex Series at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course (June 22) to showcase the class in front of a weekend-long celebration for street tuner cars. Both classes visit Watkins Glen (July 5) for a combined 250-mile battle as a complement to the IndyCar Series weekend on the historic road course. The GS class then gets the spotlight when competitors join the Rolex Series at Barber Motorsports Park (July 19) near Birmingham, Ala. 

The KONI Challenge returns to Iowa Speedway (August 10) for a combined 2 ½ hour battle on the 1.3-mile road course that the series visited for the first time a season ago. Split-class races highlight the schedule at Trois Rivieres (August 16-17) one week after Iowa, the fourth consecutive season that the KONI Challenge will visit Quebec.

Following a combined race on the country's longest road course in conjunction with the Rolex Series finale at Miller Motorsports Park (September 21), the KONI Challenge season concludes for the third consecutive year with the Twin 6-hour races at VIR (October 4-5). The Twin Sixes have quickly become a KONI tradition and usually decide each class championship.

The Grand American Road Racing Association, which operates and sanctions the Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series presented by Crown Royal Special Reserve and the Grand-Am KONI Challenge Series, is the premier road racing organization in North America. The 15-race 2008 Rolex Series and the 11-race KONI Challenge Series calendars deliver professional sports car racing to key markets throughout North America in addition to being televised in the United States and Canada on SPEED and distributed globally through ESPN International. With title sponsorship support from Rolex Watch USA and presenting sponsorship from Crown Royal Special Reserve, the Rolex Series showcases emerging and legendary drivers from around the globe and thoroughbred racing machines from the industry's leading constructors and the world's top automobile manufacturers. Learn more about Grand-Am at www.grand-am.com.

2008 SCHEDULE GRAND-AM KONI CHALLENGE SERIES
Date                 Venue                                                                                                              Distance
Jan. 25              Daytona International Speedway – Daytona Beach, Fla.                                        3 hours
April 26             Virginia International Raceway – Alton, Va. *                                                        2 ½ hours
May 26             Lime Rock Park – Lakeville, Conn. *                                                                    200 miles
June 15             Mosport International Raceway – Bowmanville, Ontario, Canada *                          200 miles
June 22             Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course – Lexington, Ohio #                                                  2 ½ hours
July 5                Watkins Glen International – Watkins Glen, N.Y.                                                  250 miles
July 19              Barber Motorsports Park – Birmingham, Ala. +                                                     250 miles
Aug. 10             Iowa Speedway – Newton, Iowa                                                                           2 ½ hours
Aug. 16 -17        Trois Rivieres – Trois Rivieres, Quebec, Canada *                                                 2 ½ hours
Sept. 21            Miller Motorsports Park – Tooele, Utah                                                                250 miles
Oct. 4-5             Virginia International Raceway – Alton, Va. *                                                        6 hours

* - Split class races // #  - ST class only // + - GS class only
From Grand-Am

Wickens Lands P1 in A1GP Rookie Debut

Brno, Czech Republic (October 12, 2007) - Robert Wickens capped his debut for A1 Team Canada by topping the timesheets in the second half of Friday morning's 'Rookie-Only' session at the Brno Auto Motodrom in the Czech Republic ahead of Round 2 of the 2007-08 A1GP World Cup of Motorsport.

The 18-year-old from Toronto was confirmed in his 'rookie' role this morning and failed to disappoint piloting the 550bhp A1GP car for the first time since a one-day try-out with the team at England's Silverstone Circuit back in August.  Wickens, who placed third this year in his rookie season in the Champ Car Atlantic Championship, quickly got to grips with both car and track - the Canadian sampling the 5.40km Brno circuit for the first time.

Setting the seventh fastest time in the first of two 25-minute sessions for rookie drivers, Wickens and the crew worked on the car's balance ahead of the second outing with the end result, a lap of 1m49.037s, placing Canada firmly at the top of the timesheets and third fastest overall for the morning.  Having later worked on race set-up, Wickens duly handed over to fellow Toronto-native James Hinchcliffe, who will qualify and race in Brno, for the afternoon's hour-long practice session.

"To be honest the morning went better than expected," Wickens remarked.  "I made a slight error on my fastest lap in the first half of the session so we ended up seventh but we knew by looking at the data we had a top-three car.  The changes we made clicked and I banged in a fast lap at the start of the second session.  I certainly can't complain about finishing P1, it's a great platform to build on."

Hinchcliffe, who scored a podium for Canada in the Sprint race at Brno last season, posted 17 laps in the afternoon with his quickest lap, a 1m47.609s, placing him 12th fastest from the 22 car field.

"It's been a good day," stated Hinchcliffe.  "Obviously we were happy to see the pace Robbie had in the rookie session.  When I went out in the afternoon's practice on new tires I don't think our set-up was ideally suited to running on fresh rubber.  At this track you really only get one lap to get it done so although it looks like we're lower than where we want to be, by mid-session, when everyone's in more of a race-trim on worn tires, we actually had a really competitive car.  We just need to do a little more work to make sure we qualify well and get the most from our one-lap runs tomorrow."

Rookie Practice (2 x 25 Minute Sessions)
1       Germany  Christian Vietoris      1:48.841
2       Portugal         Joao Urbano     1:48.842
3       CANADA   Robert Wickens  1:49.037
4       Australia        John Martin     1:49.131
5       Ireland  Adam Carroll    1:49.138

Official Practice (1 Hour Session)
1       Germany  Christian Vietoris      1:45.336
2       Great Britain   Robbie Kerr     1:45.956
3       New Zealand     Jonny Reid      1:46.171
4        Netherlands     Jeroen Bleekemolen      1:46.347
5       Portugal         Joao Urbano     1:46.604
*12th   CANADA   James Hinchcliffe        1:47.609

Qualifying for Sunday's 20-minute Sprint race and 70-minute Feature race starts tomorrow, Saturday 13th October, at 2:15pm in the Czech Republic (8:15am EST).  Live timing - www.a1gp.com
ENDS - www.a1teamcan.com

Photo Credit: 'Wickens on track for A1 Team Canada in the Czech Republic' - Jakob Ebrey Photography
Copyright-free A1 Team Canada images are available for download at www.a1gp-photo.com/can

From A1 Team Canada Media Relations: Stuart Morrison - PR & Media Manager

DICKIES EXTENDS MOSPORT SPONSORSHIP TO 2009

(BOWMANVILLE, ON – October 12, 2007)  Williamson-Dickie Canada Co. and Mosport International Raceway today announced an agreement that will see the leading global workwear brand sponsor NASCAR Canadian Tire Series races at Canada's largest motorsports facility through 2009. In addition to continuing as the title sponsor of the Dickies 200, that will run as part of the Father's Day weekend at the 4-kilometre road course, Dickies becomes an associate sponsor of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series event at Canada's fastest half-mile oval, Mosport Speedway, later next summer.

"We are excited to build on a strong relationship with Mosport that will continue to allow us to bring live NASCAR Canadian Tire Series racing to fans in the GTA and throughout Ontario," said Bill McFarlane, Vice-President, Marketing and Operations, Williamson-Dickie Canada Co. "Through our recent agreement to sponsor Series driver Dave Whitlock's  #39 Dickies Dodge Charger for an additional two years and this new Mosport agreement, we are committed to growing fan interest in NASCAR in Canada," he said.

Dickies has been involved for over six years with NASCAR in the U.S., including the past three years with the Dickies 500. The Dickies 500 Nextel Cup race is scheduled to run next month in Fort Worth, Texas.

"We are really pleased to welcome Dickies back as a marketing partner and sponsor at Mosport because they will help us promote the Series and let fans in the GTA know that they can see great live NASCAR-style racing close to home," said Myles Brandt, President and General Manager of Mosport International Raceway.

"Through their two-year commitment, Dickies has demonstrated their confidence in Mosport's ability to stage first-rate events and to help them grow their business through motorsports marketing. They are an enthusiastic partner and we're looking forward to working with them on promoting these two events," said Brandt.

Williamson-Dickie Canada Co. is a subsidiary of Williamson-Dickie Manufacturing Company of Fort Worth, Texas. Williamson-Dickie operates through subsidiaries in North America, Canada and Europe as well as exclusive distributorship around the world. Their Canadian headquarters is in Mississauga, Ontario, with a manufacturing plant located in Hanover, Ontario.

Mosport International Raceway has been Canada's Home of Motorsports since 1961 and is the GTA's only permanent motorsports facility. The 750 acre, multi-purpose complex includes the world-famous 4-km road course, a 2.4 km racer and driver training facility with skid pad, a 1.4 km kart circuit and Canada's fastest half-mile paved oval. The four circuits play host to more than 400 events a year.

From Jerry Priddle // Mosport

Roush Fenway GM high on their new Truck driver

In a release touting the driver of the Roush Fenway Racing #50 Truck next weekend at Martinsville Speedway, RFR GM Max Jones had this to say:

"[THE DRIVER] has done everything we've asked him to do. The goal at the beginning of every race has been to finish every lap and learn as much as possible and that's exactly what he's done. He's one of the hardest working drivers I've seen in a while. He's in the shop, watching practices, participating in pit practice, talking to our other drivers, just trying to learn as much as possible and that shows. We feel like he'll do a good job for us in the truck at Martinsville."

Sounds like he's talking about Canadian Pete Shepherd, who by all accounts has done all of those things. But he's not. And while team co-owner Jack Roush has said many glowing things about Shepherd - comparing him to a young Mark Martin - I can't recall seeing Jones ever comment on Shepherd finishing virtually every lap, working out, showing up at the shop every day, talking to the other RFR drivers, watching and learning at every opportunity, etc. Hmm.

Colin Braun will be driving the #50 at M-ville.

TIEMERSMA: OSCAAR champion

NEWMARKET, ON - This past weekend at Peterborough Speedway brought the end to an amazing rookie season for Derrick and the crew of the #7 Wayfreight OSCAAR Super Late Model.  This weekend Derrick was able to secure the 2007 championship finishing over 100 points ahead of his next competitor.
 
The 2007 season can be summed up as nothing less than �great�.  This was a dream season for Tiemersma Motorsports. Though many previous years we have seen title chances fade due to some sort of bad racing luck or mechanical failures.  This season however none of these difficulties would plague the #7 team.  When the #7 was fast, both Derrick and the team were able to perform in winning fashion.  If our competitors were to falter we were there to bring home as many points as possible. 
 
To simply put our season into words.  It was simply a year when everything went right for Tiemersma Motorsports.
 
With the 2007 season complete, we now switch our focus at Tiemersma Motorsports over to preparation for the 2008 season and to defending the Oscaar championship.  This winter looks to be yet another busy season, with many modifications to be made in both the chassis and engine department.
 
This season however would not have been made possible with out the help from all of our sponsors. 
 
We would all like to thank Rick Way from Wayfreight trucking who has been a great supporter and fan of Derrick Tiemersma and Tiemersma Motorsports for the past four seasons.  Without both Rick�s and his employee�s support we would never have been able to get where we are today.
 
Not to be left out we would also like to thank: Bosch Spark Plugs, Castrol Oils and Lubricants, Clevite Engine Parts, CRC Chemicals, Gates Belts and Hoses, Victor Reinz Gaskets, WIX Filters
 
Over the years Tiemersma Motorsports has received glowing support from everyone involved at these companies and we hope that we have acted in a professional manner to highlight you and your products.  Honorable mention should also go to: Inside Track Magazine, for all of its support of Tiemersma Motorsports.
 
Once again we offer our thanks for all the support during the 2007 season.  Preparation has already begun for the 2008 season, we will have weekly updates as to the progress in the shop.
 
Thank you,
 
Mike Sutton, Crew Chief, Tiemersma Motorsports

Brett Hearn Super DIRT Week Ruling Released

From DIRTcar Racing // Tom Skibinski, DIRTcar Racing NorthEast Public Relations Director

OFFICIAL DIRTcar PENALTY NOTICE
RE: Brett Hearn
Date of Violation: October 6, 2007
Track: Super DIRT Week XXXVI

This notice is notification of a penalty to DIRTcar 358-Modified competitor Brett Hearn. Mr. Hearn has been fined $1,000 for the use of an unapproved fuel log on his #4 car during the running of the Gould�s Pumps Salute to the Troops 150 at the New York State Fairgrounds on October 6, 2007. Mr. Hearn�s fuel log exceeded the stated outside diameter, in violation of rule 5.20.14 which states:

5.20.14 Only one carburetor fuel log will be permitted and is limited to a maximum outside diameter of 1�.
It was determined that the fuel log did not influence the outcome of the race.
Additionally, DIRTcar inspectors inspected the fuel cell of the car. The foam in the fuel cell appeared in excess of rule 5.20.8 which states:
5.20.8 Fuel tank must be fully foamed with just a minimal cut-out for filler. Cut-out may be no more than 6� wide x 10� long x 7� deep.
The foam cut-out in Mr. Hearn�s #4 was approximately 9� wide x 10� long x 9� deep.
However, after review of the fuel cells of additional teams and discussions with product manufacturer representatives, DIRTcar officials determined the dimensions shown in 5.20.8 do not represent a significant percentage of the factory-produced dimensions of foam as provided in the �DIRT Modified� fuel cell. DIRTcar will issue a bulletin reflecting the common dimension. As such, no penalties will be issued for the fuel cell foam.
 
Any questions on this or any other technical issues, please contact Cory Reed, Dir. Series and sanctioning, at (315) 834-6606.

 
 
 

NASCAR: Gillett Evernham Motorsports signs Carpentier for '08 Cup drive

STATESVILLE, N.C. (October 10, 2007) - Gillett Evernham Motorsports announced today that they have added Patrick Carpentier to their driver lineup for 2008. The Quebec native and former open wheel stand out will drive fulltime in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series next year as well as select races in the NASCAR Nationwide Series. The car number and sponsorship have not yet been announced.

Carpentier made his NASCAR Nextel Cup Series debut earlier this season driving the No. 10 Valvoline/Stanley Tools Dodge Avenger at Watkins Glen, leading seven laps in the event. Just one week earlier, he had made his NASCAR Busch Series debut at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal. The road course veteran proved to be a quick study as he won the pole for the event and led 14 laps en route to a second-place finish. Carpentier has compiled five Champ Car World Series/CART wins, and a Toyota Atlantic Championship in 1996.

"We are excited to add Patrick Carpentier to our organization for 2008," said George Gillett co-owner of Gillett Evernham Motorsports. "Patrick (Carpentier) has shown tremendous talent in every series he has driven throughout his career and has a bright future in NASCAR. We are committed to giving Patrick (Carpentier) the best resources and opportunities available to make this transition and we look forward to a great deal of success together both on and off the track."

Gillett Evernham Motorsports will conduct a formal press conference next week to introduce Patrick Carpentier and discuss further details. Information regarding this press conference to follow.
 
From Spencer Andrews / Clear!Blue
Montreal Carpentier photo by G. MacPherson / ITMN

A1GP: A1 Team Canada Response to A1GP and Ferrari Partnership

Montréal, Canada (October 11, 2007) - A1 Team Canada Seat Holder Wade Cherwayko has expressed his delight at the news today that an historic and ground breaking partnership has been reached between the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport and Ferrari. 

It was confirmed in an announcement this morning that Ferrari has signed a six-year agreement to manufacture and supply all A1GP engines for the unique nation versus nation series and will design and consult on the manufacture of all A1GP car chassis for use in Season Four (2008-09).

The partnership with Ferrari extends to an exclusive licensing agreement for all A1GP merchandise to use the Ferrari name and phrase 'Powered by Ferrari' from January 2008.

"A1GP's partnership with Ferrari is both significant and encouraging," reflected Wade Cherwayko, A1 Team Canada's Seat Holder.  "It helps to further establish A1GP as leading motor racing series while it breaks ground given it's the first time Ferrari has become involved in another formula in this manner."

He continued, "The fact that they have done so is testament to A1GP's strength and vision while undoubtedly having the Ferrari name associated with the series will greatly enhance our off-track aims and objectives.  I'm delighted with today's news and I'm confident that from a Canadian perspective, this announcement will further serve to build our credibility in the marketplace as we continue discussions with commercial partners both at home and abroad."

Toronto's James Hinchcliffe, who will race for A1 Team Canada this weekend in Round 2 of the 2007-08 A1GP season in the Czech Republic, shares Wade Cherwayko's excitement.

"Well this is obviously fantastic news for the series," stated Hinchcliffe.  "To be associated with a brand like Ferrari is really going to elevate A1GP to the next level, not only in terms of the racing on offer but also with regards to the commercial side of the series.  Ferrari is such an iconic brand, especially for Canadians having watched the legendary Gilles Villeneuve establish himself behind the wheel of a Ferrari.  For the next six years at least, Canadian drivers competing in A1GP will get to share in the excitement of being associated with Ferrari, something most drivers can only dream about."

A1 Team Canada Team Manager Simon Cayzer commented, "This is a really great announcement and is hugely positive for the future stability of A1GP.  From the outset people have been questioning the longevity of the series but the deal with Ferrari underlines just how serious everyone involved with A1GP is.  With a name like Ferrari on board the profile and level of technology in A1GP will both move up to a higher level, I'm sure this will help attract more fans, sponsors and drivers.  It would also be nice to get a company car!"

For further information on the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport please log on to - www.a1gp.com
ENDS - www.a1teamcan.com

Photo Credit:  'A1GP already utilises Ferrari power in the role of Safety Car at events' - A1GP
Copyright-free A1 Team Canada images are available for download at www.a1gp-photo.com/can

From A1 Team Canada Media Relations: Stuart Morrison - PR & Media Manager

A1GP: Hinchcliffe Relishing Return to Brno

Montréal, Canada (October 10, 2007) - A1 Team Canada returns to the scene of its sole podium finish from last season's A1GP World Cup of Motorsport campaign, the Brno Auto Motodrom in the Czech Republic, with Toronto's James Hinchcliffe hoping to go one better than his second place Sprint finish when he competes in Round 2 of the 2007-08 season, Friday 12th - Sunday 14th October.

Having just missed out on a top-ten finish, and early points, in this year's season-opener at Zandvoort eleven days ago, A1 Team Canada hopes to translate some of its encouraging pace into solid scores at Brno this weekend.  Hinchcliffe will again lead the team's charge, returning to the 5.40km circuit where he made just his second career A1GP start a year ago, claiming second in the Sprint race before coming within five laps of taking victory in the afternoon's Feature race.

The 20-year-old Champ Car Atlantic front-runner dominated the majority of last season's Feature at the Czech track, situated 200km south of Prague, having secured Canada's first-ever A1GP front-row start courtesy of his Sprint finish behind Malaysia's Alex Yoong.  The ex-F1 driver would again prove to be Hinchcliffe's nemesis in the second race, Yoong losing the lead to the young Canadian at the start but gradually reeling him in over the closing stages of the 70-minute charge.

Just five laps from the end of the Feature, and Canada's second-ever A1GP victory, Yoong and Hinchcliffe clashed with the Malaysian inheriting the lead, and subsequently the win, while James collected the Canadian entry steering it home to a still respectable fifth place finish but left to rue what might have been after such a commanding performance from the then rookie racer.

"Ever since Round 2 last year I've been looking forward to returning to Brno," enthused Hinchcliffe.  "It's definitely the track I've wanted to get back to racing at most of all on this year's A1GP calendar.  We had some success there last season and I've already discussed with the engineers what we'll need from the car in order keep pushing in the right direction.  I think with my experience at the track and the time the team's spent together we'll hopefully be on for a good result."

He continued, "Last time out in Zandvoort was a big learning weekend for us.  It was our first event together as a full team and there were certainly some positives to take away from it.  I think all things considered we did a really good job although the results obviously weren't quite what we were hoping for.  Ultimately by the time Sunday came round we had a pretty fast race car and now we've got a good starting point heading to Brno."

Reflecting on the season-opener A1 Team Canada's Team Manager Simon Cayzer commented, "We clearly had good pace in Zandvoort but didn't get much luck; we lost track time on Saturday and suffered in qualifying as a result.  In the feature race James set his quickest lap in the early stages with a heavy fuel load, it was unfortunate that we had a problem with our pit stop and then couldn't get by the Czech car.  We're now looking to re-group for Brno, James was very strong there last year so we're optimistic that we'll be able to put in a strong performance."

Sunday's 20-minute Sprint race starts at 11am local time (5am EST) with the 70-minute Feature race starting at 3pm in the Czech Republic (9am EST).  Live timing available via - www.a1gp.com

Setanta Sports Canada will broadcast all the action from Round 2 as a tape-delay on Monday 15th October starting at 8am EST - www.setantanorthamerica.com
ENDS - www.a1teamcan.com

Photo Credit: 'Hinchcliffe in A1GP action last time out at Zandvoort' - Jakob Ebrey Photography
Copyright-free A1 Team Canada images are available for download at www.a1gp-photo.com/can

From: A1 Team Canada Media Relations: Stuart Morrison - PR & Media Manager

A1GP World Cup of Motorsport and Ferrari Announce Landmark Partnership

Ferrari to supply engines in long term A1GP partnership deal as well as design chassis and consult on manufacture for new car in Season Four. Ferrari to supply engines to new A2GP Series in Season Five

London, Great Britain: A1GP Chairman, Tony Teixeira, has announced a truly historic and ground breaking partnership between Ferrari and the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport. Ferrari signed a six-year agreement to manufacture and supply all A1GP engines for this unique series and will design and consult on the manufacture of all A1GP car chassis for use in Season Four (2008/09).

The partnership with Ferrari extends to an exclusive licensing agreement for all A1GP merchandise to use the Ferrari name and phrase "Powered by Ferrari' from January 2008.

Commenting on the momentous deal, Tony Teixeira said: "Partnering with a world-class organisation like Ferrari will officially position A1GP as one of the most significant motorsport series in the world."

The introduction of A2GP was also announced today, a regional single-seat racing car series developed by A1GP to begin testing in 2009. Ferrari will be integral to the growth of the new series and will again supply all engines and design and consult on the manufacture of the new chassis.

A1GP also maintained its commitment to commercial partners and fans as a principal factor in confirming the partnership. "Ferrari will add significant value to our brand and in our opinion there is no better partner to progress the series," adds Mr Teixeira.

"We will be meeting with our commercial partners over the next few weeks to discuss the multitude of exciting opportunities that this partnership presents."

Finally Tony Teixeira notes; "Ferrari has a global presence through its dealer network. We will be working closely with them to ensure that they are a part of every A1GP World Cup of Motorsport event."

From A1GP

AMERICAN LE MANS SERIES RETURNS TO MOSPORT IN 2008

(BOWMANVILLE, ON - OCTOBER 10, 2007)  Mosport International Raceway will once again be the only Canadian stop on next year�s American Le Mans Series schedule when it hosts Canada's biggest sports car race, The Mobil 1 presents the Grand Prix of Mosport, August 21-24, 2008.

The 2008 Series schedule was announced in Atlanta during the Petit Le Mans race weekend with Mosport as the ninth stop in the 12-race championship, which opens at Sebring on March 12 and includes events in Long Beach, Houston and Detroit, before wrapping-up in Monterey, California at Laguna Seca in mid-October.  Several American Le Mans Series teams will also compete in one of the world�s great auto races, the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June.

"We're excited to welcome back a series that combines world class racing and unbeatable off-track entertainment for our fans,� said Mosport President and General Manager Myles Brandt. �The American Le Mans Series weekend has been a staple on Mosport's schedule since the series began in 1999 and the popularity of the Mobil 1 presents The Grand Prix of Mosport has grown tremendously over the years. Being the only Canadian race in this prestigious series makes this event a stand out on Canada's motorsports schedule."

The American Le Mans Series is the premier sports car championship in North America, featuring teams, drivers and manufacturers with world class renown. Throughout the four classes of competition are many of the world's top marques such as Acura, Audi, Corvette, Ferrari, Mazda, Panoz and Porsche. The teams are operated by some of the most famous names in the sport including Michael Andretti, Roger Penske and Bobby Rahal. 

Behind the wheel of these sophisticated machines are many of the finest road course racers in the world such as Audi R10 TDI pilot and 2006 co-champion Allan McNish and Timo Bernhard of Penske Racing's Porsche Spyder prototype team. Open-wheel veterans Adrian Fernandez and Bryan Herta joined the series in 2007, and in 2008 the series will welcome new Corvette, Dodge Viper and Ford GT-powered teams.

2008 American Le Mans Series schedule
March 15- Sebring
April 5- St. Petersburg
April 19- Long Beach
April 26- Houston
May 18- Salt Lake City
July 12- Lime Rock Park
July 19- Mid-Ohio
August 9- Road America
August 24- Mosport
August 30- Detroit
October 4- Road Atlanta
October 18- Laguna Seca

From Lee Bailie, Mosport 1-800-866-1072 or email lee@mosport.com

OSCAAR: Rob Clarke Captures The Autumn Colours Classic

By George Strang / OSCAAR.ca / October 10, 2007

PETERBOROUGH, ON - On Sunday night the OSCAAR Outlaw Super Late Models wrapped up their 2007 schedule with their appearance at the 15th Annual Autumn Colors Classic at Peterborough Speedway. When the checkers fell on the final feature of the season it was London's Rob Clarke that was first to the line, taking home his first feature win of the season.

Everyone knew it was going to come sooner or later, but the London Mechanical Plumbing and Heating/JBM Leasing #49 machine of Rob 'Magic Shoes' Clarke had nothing to show in the win column so far this year coming into Peterborough. It's been a dry couple of years in that department for the 5 time series champion, at least by their standards. Last year saw the team struggle with the handling of the car, and have some bad luck, but still managed a couple of wins.

This season, particularly in the latter half, the team has been stout, arguably having the fastest car on the track at some events, but that win has still been elusive.

Starting from inside the third row for the feature event, the #49 of Clarke made quick work of getting to the front, passing the #34 of Al Thompson for the lead on lap six. He set sail from there laying down some blistering laps in the 13.7 second bracket and leading the rest of the way en route to the his maiden '07 victory.

"Oh yeah, is that what it feels like to finally win one?" said an obviously relieved Clarke, "We had fun. The guys worked their guts out this year. I'm glad they got rewarded. I hope the fans loved it. I drove my guts out!"

Even though Clarke was driving it like he stole it, he didn't run away with it. By lap ten, the Race2way.ca/Rival Office Solutions #22 of Glenn Watson had charged through the field from a fourth row starting position into second place. Hot off his second feature win of the season at Flamboro Speedway the week previous, Watson was looking just as strong again and was matching the times that the #49 was laying down.

Watson kept him honest but never quite made it up to the bumper of Clarke in order to try a move and brought the #22 car home second on this night. "I want to thank my crew for all their help. Congratulations to Rob Clarke - he ran a great race."

Coming home third, and putting in his strongest run of the season was the Standing Arrows Smoke Shop #62 of Lloyd Ritchie. 'The Orange Blossom Special', as the #62 outlaw has become known, must like the Peterborough bullring. It was at this track last year that Ritchie came within a few laps of winning the Don Biederman Memorial race, before falling victim to fuel woes.

On this night he came from the ninth starting position and by lap 27 had appeared in the top three. Ritchie had lots of gas in the tank this time and kept his nose clean and kept it there till the checkers waved. "It felt good to finally come up with a podium finish. We'll be back next year for sure!"

Crossing the line fourth with a strong run was the John Owen Performance Engines/Litz Bobcat Service #2 of John Owen copying his fourth place finish from last years Autumn Colors Classic, and also a fourth at Kawartha back in August. The fifth place finisher, and the team with the longest tow, by quite a large margin, was the #61x of George Wilson who hauled from Sault Ste. Marie to make the show.

Due to the rainout on Saturday, there were only one set of qualifying heats run on Sunday. Heat race wins went to the JNE Consulting #61 of John Fletcher and the Shepstone Haulage #15 of Al Shepstone.

It was also a night where a new champion was crowned as Derrick Tiemersma sealed the deal by bringing home an eighth place finish, good enough to capture the 2007 OSCAAR points championship in his first year with the series. Look for more on that story in the days to come.

From OSCAAR.ca // Photo by Dave Franks

NASCAR turns down Edwards' Dover appeal

From NASCAR:

NATIONAL STOCK CAR RACING COMMISSION STATEMENT:
 
On October 9, 2007, the National Stock Car Racing Commission heard and considered the appeal of Roush Fenway Racing regarding the #99 car. The appeal concerned three penalties issued by NASCAR following post-race inspection on September 23, 2007 for the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series event at Dover International Speedway. 
 
The infractions concerned Section 12-4-A of the NASCAR Rule Book �Actions detrimental to stock car racing�; Section 12-4-Q �Any determination by NASCAR Officials that the car, car parts, components, and/or equipment used in the Event do not conform to NASCAR rules� and Section 20-12.8.1.C of the NASCAR COT Technical Bulletin #3 dated 4/10/07: �Failed to meet the minimum rear car heights.�
 
The penalties assessed were:
 
- Loss of 25 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Championship Car Owner Points for car owner Roush Fenway Racing.
 
- Loss of 25 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Championship Driver Points for driver Carl Edwards.
 
- $25,000.00 fine and probation until December 31, 2007 for crew chief Robert Osborne.
 
The Appellants argued that the infraction was due to the failure of a clamp on a jack bolt and that the resulting low rear car height was a performance disadvantage. They further argued that penalties imposed during the Chase for the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup should be assessed differently than during other portions of the season, and differently for Chase contenders than for other competitors.
 
In deciding the Appeal, the Commission considered several factors:
 
- There was no indication that the infraction was intentional.
 
- The car failed to meet post-race height requirements. Whether this constituted an advantage, disadvantage or otherwise does not alter the fact that the car failed to meet the rules.
 
- All eligible competitors in each NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series championship race are awarded championship points per the NASCAR Rule Book.  Accordingly, point penalties should continue to be assessed irrespective of a given competitor�s overall standing in the championship points, or in which championship race an infraction occurs.
 
- The penalties imposed are consistent with those for other recent car height violations.
 
Therefore it is the unanimous decision of the National Stock Car Racing Commission to uphold the original penalties assessed by NASCAR. The Appellants have the right under Section 15 of the Rule Book to appeal this decision to the National Stock Car Racing Commissioner.
 
John Capels // Grant Lynch // George Silbermann, Chairman

RICK @ the RACES (2007 SUPER DIRT WEEK) ... by Rick Young

RICK @ the RACES (SUPER DIRT WEEK 2007) ..... By Rick Young

- 5 Oct Rolling Wheels Raceway, NY
- 6 Oct NYS Fairgrounds Syracuse, NY
- 7 Oct NYS Fairgrounds , Syracuse, NY

After my trip to Austin, Texas, last weekend , a few 'money earning' days at work were required before my annual visit to SUPER DIRT WEEK at Syracuse NY. In previous years I'd normally be down there taking in the action from Wednesday onwards but this time it had to wait until Friday.

I was joined at SDW by Lynn Edwards , a long-time friend that I've known since my teenage days, who was over here visiting from her home in the UK.

On Friday night the first place on our agenda was the Rolling Wheels Raceway at Elbridge NY where there were two SUPER DIRTCAR races taking place, for 358 Dirt Modifieds and Sportsman. Although it was hot and humid, the track was in the best shape I'd ever seen it, and at the end of the night it was still nice and tacky. The Sportsman race provided yet another Series win for Joe Williams with Tim Fuller clinching the 100 lapper for 358's.

Saturday was another warm and sunny day when we arrived , just before lunch at the �Moody Mile� that's situated within the New York State Fairgrounds. We met up with fellow media man Jim Clarke and hung out with him for a while. After wandering the pits and chatting to friends , my first engagement was the 'photo shoot' of Miss Motor-Sports at the Area Auto Racing News booth. Every year they arrange for her to pose 'bikini clad' ( for all us eager male photographers ! ) on one of the race cars .

The main event on the program was the 150 lap 358 Dirt Modified race with a 30 lap Dirt Sportsman race to follow. Prior to the start I strolled down pit row where I found Brian McDonald # 96 one of my local drivers that was competing. He and his crew were in the middle of a 'photo session' , so I joined in. Just after this we bumped into Cornwall Motor Speedway promotor , Ron Morin who was about to go on-track with the Pace Truck for the start of the race. While Lynn and Jim retired to the grandstand I jumped in the passenger seat in attempt to get some 'different' photos. As we joined the other Pace Trucks for the rolling laps, I had my head out of the window 'snapping' away.

The front row starters were the # 42 of Pete Bicknell and # 42P of Pat Ward . I was out of the Pace Truck and ready with my camera on turn four as the green flag fell. The action was short lived, with a wreck causing a stoppage on the first lap. A few cautions followed this before I moved from my track-side position to join Lynn and Jim in the stands. Soon after I sat down the first spots of rain started to fall, the red flags came out on lap 15 and the cars were covered  with tarps. The heavy rain only lasted a short while but it was lengthy process getting the track dry enough to resume racing.

Eventually nearly two and a half hours later the race got going again until another sprinkling of rain on lap 82 caused a 21 lap single file caution period.

When the Green flag dropped once more , it was Bicknell at the front with Ward still chasing. They switched positions a few times while Brett Hearn followed closely. Like most Syracuse races, so much depends on pit strategy and fuel consumption, and as the checkers got closer Bicknell and Ward became victims. Bicknell's fuel ran out on lap 141 and Ward's did likewise with only two to go, handing the lead to Hearn , who was followed over the line by Stewart Friesen in second and Billy Decker in third. The rain delays meant a late finish and with a race lasting nearly 5 hours, the Sportsman event had to be postponed to the next day.

Our original plans for Saturday night were to visit the Cayuga County Fair Speedway at Weedsport NY for the �Win and You're in" last chance to qualify , Modified event but the late finish at 'the mile' and with more rain predicted for the evening, we settled for a nice meal out instead.

The sun was shining again on Sunday and the extended program went quite smoothly. The headline event of the day was the RITE AID 200 ( formerly known as the Eckerd 200) for Big Block Dirt Modifieds, with a 30 lap DIRT ProStox race and the postponed Dirt Sportsman event adding to the bill.

Driving in the Sportsman race was Jessica Zemken # 44z who I'd spoken to the day before. She made history a few years back when she became the first female to race a Modified at the 'Moody Mile'. In the meantime she's been having a successful career in Sprint Cars as well competing in the Sportsman division.

The 30 lap Sportsman race was lead by Sammy Reakes IV # 17, from start to finish.

There were quite a few guys I know personally that were racing in the ProStox division including Giles Godard # 27 . On Wednesday , prior to our drive down to Syracuse, I'd taken my Chevy into the local GM dealer in Cornwall (Ont) for an oil change where Giles works in the parts department.

At the start of the race it was Lynn's turn for a ride in the Cornwall Pace Truck while I stationed my self on turn four waiting for the action. Pete Stefanski # 2 held the lead up to lap 12 when Don Carlson # 26 got passed , and stayed there to the checkers. Giles was unlucky not to finish when he was forced into the wall by another car.

The next race was the big one, the RITE AID 200 , the race that most people were there to see. We wandered down pit road just before the driver introductions, for a last look at the field. We wished good luck to another friend of mine, Mike Perotte # 35 , who I don't see in action too much these days. Mike used to be a regular at my local Frogtown International Speedway (Hogansburg NY) , but since taking up promoting duties on Saturdays at the Airborne Speedway (Plattsburg NY) he's been absent. Most of his racing activities these days,  are on Friday nights at the Albany-Saratoga Speedway (Malta. NY) , where I rarely get to.

Jimmy Phelps # 98H and Tim Fuller # 19 were the front row starters and it was Phelps who took the early lead. There were six other leaders during the epic 200 mile battle, which included Fuller, Ronnie Johnson # 2 , Andy Bachetti # 34, Jason Barney # 35B, Matt Sheppard # 44S and Vic Coffey # 32C who was there at the end. The jubilant Coffey celebrated his second big win at SDW ( he won the Eckerd 200 in 2003) with a couple of donuts on the start-finish line. "Coffee and Donuts" That sounds good to me !

After my picture taking was done, it was time to get on Interstate 81 and join the convoy of race fans heading back to Canada .

PIC 1    Tim Fuller wins at Rolling Wheels
PIC 2    Photo shoot of Miss Motorsports
PIC 3   Brian McDonald # 96 with car owners Lori and Mike Lasalle
PIC 4   The two 42's lead the 358 race
PIC 5   Danny Johnson in the 358 race
PIC 6   One of the many mishaps in the 358 race.
PIC 7   Rain Stops Play
PIC 8   Cornwall boss, Ron and his grandson Gage Morin
PIC 9   Brett Hearn wins the 358 race
PIC 10  Jessica Zemken poses by her Dirt Sportsman # 44z
PIC 11   Mike Perotte poses beside his Big Block Dirt Mod
PIC 12   Lynn gets a ride in the Cornwall Pace Truck
PIC 13  Paul Kirkland at the wheel of the Brockville Pace Truck
PIC 14  Giles Godard in his # 27 Dirt Pro Stox
PIC 15  Lynn and I pose in the Pit Lane
PIC 16   Coffey and Donuts
PIC 17   Vic Coffey wins the RITE AID 200

By Rick Young

Zanardi continues to impress

Alex Zanardi was an inspiration to racing fans prior to his accident, and he's been even more of an inspiration since. TSN has a story about his plans to take part in the upcoming New York City Marathon.

Kyle Marcelli - Indy Pro Series release

(Barrie, Ontario) - October 9, 2007 - Newly crowned Ontario Formula Ford Champion Kyle Marcelli, of Barrie, Ontario, recently completed a two-day test in one of Brian Stewart's Indy Pro Series cars at the Dunnville Autodrome.

One day prior to the test Marcelli was fortunate enough to do some demonstration laps in front of the thousands of fans at the Formula Car Magazine CanAm Cup event at Mosport.

Stepping out of the car Marcelli said, "Firstly, I have to thank Brian Stewart for the opportunity to be invited to test for two days in his IPS cars. Brian is a great guy and over the years has discovered some talented, championship winning drivers. He has a big heart and is always trying to help up-and-coming Canadian drivers and I am going to try and do him proud tomorrow."

The weather started out looking a little suspect but the skies cleared and Marcelli strapped into the 450 horsepower, 1300 lb car. He spent a few laps getting used to the tremendous amount of power compared to his Formula Ford he has been racing this season but didn't take long to get up to speed.

Working closely with Stewart's engineer Doug, and with current crew chief Brian Graham at his side Marcelli and the team studied data from his early run and he put it to good use, setting a new track record for Indy Pro series cars at Dunnville.

At the completion of the test Marcelli said, "I am really pleased with the way everything went over the two days and left feeling very comfortable in the Indy Pro Series car, it's awesome. Brian (Stewart) has given me lot of confidence that I can be competitive in the cars right away, and we are all working hard at possibly putting something together for next year."

The off-season will be a busy one for the 17 year-old high school student as he works on sponsorship packages for the 2008 season. The next step for Marcelli is participation in either the Star Mazda series or Indy Pro Series.

Kyle Marcelli's Championship winning season would not have been possible without the support of the following companies and individuals; Trudel & Sons Roofing Ltd, Greg Beresford, Lafarge, ReMax Keswick's Norm and Shirley MacDonald, Axiom Powdercoating, MG Homes, NBX Action Sports, Alpinestars and Brian Stewart Racing.

For more information on Kyle Marcelli please contact: Jason Sharpe – Marcelli Motorsports // 416-838-0039 // jason@kylemarcelli.com

CCTCC: JL Racing earns top five finish

Toronto, ON (2 October, 2007). Driving Canada's only Saab 93 race car, JL Racing placed fifth in the Super Touring class of the 2007 Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship. With over forty vehicles competing in the championship, the top five result confirms the Saab 93' s superb performance and handling and demonstrates the team's professional racing competencies.

The first season of the championship began a short five months ago in May. The field was extremely competitive and at the end of the first weekend, JL Racing finished midpack and realized there was a lot of room for improvement. A goal was set to finish in the top ten for the year. Throughout the following race weekends, the suspension was overhauled, new brakes installed and aerodynamics improved.

As the team began to move up the point standings, the last two months were entirely focused on the engine with extensive dyno time and increased testing. The team then began to regularly place within the top ten. The month of September has seen all the hard work pay off, with a huge win at the BEMC Indian Summer War Bonnet three hour endurance race. The final weekend of racing saw the team finally claim fifth position in the Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship.

Team Manager and Driver, John Lockhart summed up the season: "We made some changes with the team at the beginning of the season and all the hard work started to pay off as we just kept on progressing throughout the season. Fifth place in the championship is a great result for us. The Saab 93 had excellent performance and every weekend we found more speed through our hard work and development." He also added: "We are very fortunate to be partnered with Saab Canada. Their support has allowed us to develop the 93 to where we are now very competitive in Canada's most prestigious race series. We will continue the relationship in 2008, expand to two cars and look to improve our position on the podium."

The high finish in the standings caps a season of Saab motorsport development that will stand the team in good stead for the 2008 race season where new circuits and an increasingly  competitive field will raise the bar yet again. The team is already looking to develop two new Saab 93 race cars based on key data collection from the current season and will continue the Saab heritage of performance innovation.

About JL Racing
JL Racing is one of Canada's premier sport sedan racing teams. Formed in 2000 by three Canadians, the team competes in top-rate, competitive, professional racing. In 2006, JL Racing formed a partnership with Saab Canada to race and showcase Canada's only Saab 93 race car. The team has made headlines several times with a first race, first place finish and subsequent podium finishes in the Saab 93. Photo gallery, video reports and more on www.jlracing.net .

From Jason Sharpe for Phil Reilly – JL Racing

Lucas Oil Autumn Colours Classic at Peterborough Speedway: Photo Gallery by Dave Franks

483 Pictures from Dave Franks from Peteborough Speedway's Lucas Oil Autumn Colours Classic. Thanks Dave!!!

STAR MAZDA: LORENZO MANDARINO CLAIMS VICTORY AT ROAD ATLANTA

Burnaby, British Columbia - October 9, 2007 - Multi-time karting champion and current Star Mazda series front runner Lorenzo Mandarino scored his second victory of the season in the Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear. Mandarino took the lead in the closing stages of the event and went on to take the checkers at Road Atlanta.
 
In Thursday afternoons qualifying session the British Columbia resident claimed the outside pole position and a strong starting spot on the outside of the front row. With a majority of the drivers setting their quick times earlier in the run, Mandarino worked on the setup of his Newway Forming Team G.FRO Pro Mazda to turn his quick time on lap eleven. Looking to advance his position in the race, Mandarino and crew went to work to improve the car for Friday.
 
After a major incident at the start of the event and the eventual restart that followed, Mandarino inserted himself into the second position and was involved in an intense battle with his fellow competitor in third. As the duo raced hard, they began to run down the leader before the yellow flag flew once again. Circuiting the Road Atlanta race course under caution, Mandarino began to prepare his plan of attack to take the lead in the remaining laps.
 
During the mad scramble of the resulting re-start two laps later that had veteran race observers biting their nails, Mandarino moved into the lead with a daring side-by-side pass through the first turn and would never look back. Mandarino paced the field before the final caution and eventual checkered flag flew on the event to give the Canadian pilot his second victory and lots of momentum heading into the final event in the Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear.
 
�Boy, I really needed this one,� stated Mandarino in the post race press conference. �We qualified second, but the weather made the race a gamble for us.  It rained in the morning, and it was mostly dry by race time though there were some clouds around, so choosing to go with the dry setup and dry tires was a calculated risk. The G.FRO team gave me a great car for the race and gave me some really good coaching over the radio and helped me make correct decisions about how to run the race.  This is their win as much as mine and is a big step forward toward my plans for 2008, which I hope to finalize soon.�
 
Mandarino�s next event will see him back in the seat of his Neway Forming Team G.FRO Pro Mazda machine as he will look to continue his winning ways at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Mandarino currently sits seventh in the overall points standings and will look to improve on that position at the October 20th event.
 
Lorenzo would like to thank all of his supporters for all of his successes throughout this season and express a special thank you to Neway Forming, Team G.FRO and Rossi Motorsports. For sponsorship opportunities and more information on Lorenzo Mandarino, please contact Lorenzo at 604.298.6463 or visit him online at www.LorenzoMandarino.com
 
 
From Mike Maurini // Autosports Media

David Elliott lands new sponsor for 2008

ACTON (September 18, 2007) - When the green flag drops on the 2008 racing season, David Elliott will be piloting the #37 Pennzoil Chevrolet at tracks across Southern Ontario. "We are very proud to have Pennzoil as a part of the Elliott Racing Team," said David Elliott, Champion of the 2006 Weekend Warrior Series and 2006 Flamboro Speedway Late Model Division.

"Pennzoil has a long history of being associated with championship-calibre teams in all forms of racing," said Mark Reed, Canadian Marketing Manager of Pennzoil. "By sponsoring the Elliott Racing Team, we are continuing that tradition and look forward to capturing more wins and championships with David."

The team is still finalizing its schedule for the 2008 season, but David plans to run at a number of tracks which he was not able to visit during the 2007 season. "After winning the 2006 WWS title, we decided to stick closer to home in 2007 and focused on Flamboro Speedway," said Elliott. "Next season I want to travel a bit more and plan to run the Pennzoil Chevrolet at more tracks, including Sauble Speedway, Kawartha, Delaware and at Flamboro."

In addition to the new sponsor, David will also have a new team mate in 2008 as his father, Gary, and his #36 Quaker State team will join forces with the #37 team. "I have been fortunate to have a 35-year relationship with Quaker State," said Gary. "It is very exciting that I will be teaming up with my son for 2008, but it is even more exciting that we will both be sponsored by the Pennzoil-Quaker State Company."

With a new sponsor and a new two-car team, fans across Southern Ontario will be sure to see the Elliott Racing Team contending for wins at their local tracks.

About Pennzoil
On October 1, 2002, the acquisition of Pennzoil-Quaker State Company by Shell Oil Company, an affiliate of the Royal Dutch/Shell Group of Companies, was completed. In 2003, Pennzoil-Quaker State Company began doing business as SOPUS Products. Pennzoil® brand products are now manufactured and distributed by SOPUS Products. Combining Shell Lubricant's networks and infrastructure and Pennzoil-Quaker State Company's leading motor oil brands, portfolio of car care brands and Jiffy Lube franchises, the new company is a leader in the U.S. lubricants and car care business.

About The Elliott Racing Team
The Elliott Racing Team is a team of seasoned veterans who have competed in some of North America's top racing divisions. With David Elliott driving the #37 Pennzoil Chevrolet and his father Gary behind the wheel of the #36 Quaker State Ford, the team fields two title-contending teams. Fan favorites wherever they go, the two drivers have already combined to win championships in both the Canadian Vintage Modified and Late Model divisions.

From Brett Paveling / Public Relations / Elliott Racing Team

DAYTONA BOUND GO BIG RACING PARTNERS WITH READY FASTENER

(Hamilton, ON) – Ross Millson (Hamilton, ON) and Paul Glenn (Keene, ON) of Go Big Racing, are pleased to announce their partnership with Kitchener Ontario based specialty-fastener manufacturer, Ready Fastener for their run at the SunTrust MOTO-ST Endurance Series ST Class Championship.

Go BIG Racing, is an all-Canadian motorcycle roadracing team who currently sits in 2nd place in the US based series heading into the final round, an 8 hour endurance race at the legendary Daytona International Speedway as part of the Fall Cycle Scene October 19 – 20.  They will be joined in the finale by Karl Daigle (Granby, QC), a fellow rider from the Parts Canada Superbike Championship.

This will be the second time that Go Big Racing and Daigle has raced together after the trio finished 3rd in the inaugural SunTrust MOTO-ST event a year ago in Daytona.

Ready Fastener, also known as Ready Rivet & Fastener, celebrating their fortieth year in business felt that an association with rookie Pro Rider Millson and recently crowned, 2007 International Motorcycle Supershow Amateur 600 Sport Bike Canadian Champion, Paul Glenn, was an exciting way to announce their updated name and celebrate the company's milestone.

"It's truly an honour to be associated with a family-owned company with such a longstanding history." said Glenn of the new partnership.

"We sincerely wish Ready Fastener another forty years of success." added Millson.

Ready Fastener, owned by brothers Tom and Tim Brennan, is an ISO-Certified manufacturer of custom engineered fasteners that include quality custom screws, bolts, studs, pins, collars and rivets and serves a broad range of industries across North America.

"Much like Go Big Racing, we have a dedicated team of employees and supportive suppliers that allow us the ability to adapt to our customers' needs and maintain the highest quality product."  Commented President, Tom Brennan "We felt that an association with a motorsports team that shares these qualities and values will help bring more exposure to Ready Fastener and has the potential to open new markets to us.

Ready Fastener will also be taking a trip south in the next few months, where they will be exhibitors at the 11th Annual National Industrial Fastener Show being held in Las Vegas, Nevada on November 13–14, 2007.

For more information on Ready Fastener feel free to drop by their website, www.readyfastener.com or if you are a fastener distributor stop by their booth at the Fastener Show in Las Vegas.

Visit: www.gobigracing.ca. for additional information and to learn more about the sponsors that support the team, including Suzuki dealer - Milton Motorsports, Summit Gearworks, Infinet Designs, Ready Fastener, Turn 2 Sportbike Rentals, Mimic Industries, Ultimate Cycle, Bickle Tire Warmers, Accelerated Technologies, Bagshaw Performance Inc., MotorcycleCourse.com, JD Graphics and Corner 2 Racing

###

From Go Big Racing

Hearn Hangs On For 4th ITT-Goulds Pumps SDW 358 Championship!

Syracuse, NY – October 6, 2007 – By Tom Skibinski, DIRTcar Racing NorthEast PR Director
 
"Our gear combination cost us the lead but that's what gave us the win," were the words from Brett Hearn as he survived a pair of rain-delays and finally won out in a game of fuel strategy to capture the 28h Annual ITT Industries-Goulds Pumps 150-lap 'Salute to the Troops' Mr. DIRT 358-Modified Series main event Saturday afternoon at the New York State Fairgrounds.
 
Hearn's fourth career Super DIRT Week Small-Block triumph on the Syracuse Mile was his first since 1990 and worth $20,000 in the five-hour Modified marathon. He hopes to continue the streak Sunday with a sixth victory in the Rite Aid 200, a race he has not conquered since 1995 and even been unable to finish seven of the last 11 years.
 
"The guys on the team have been working on this car for the past three years to do exactly what it did today. I guess if you do something long enough its bound to turn out in your favor soon or later. We used a super high gear ratio which allowed the other cars to jump us on the starts, but in the long run it paid off perfectly … we lost the lead but won the race," added Hearn, after inheriting the lead from Pat Ward with just over a mile to go to score the dramatic victory under the fairground lights Saturday night.
 
Second-generation Canadian driver Stewart Friesen filled in relief of Chad Brachmann (2006 race runner-up) and rallied from last to second to earn the Dasah Sprint Car Simulator Hard Charger Award while Billy Decker settled for third as Chris Shultz and Vic Coffey filled out the final front-five. In the customary post-race inspection that checked the top-five finishers, Friesen and Decker were deemed totally legal, Shultz was disqualified completely for illegal engine heads, while pending motor issues faced both Hearn and Coffey.

Afternoon rain may have been a blessing in disguise for the historic Salt City oval as a red flag and two yellows required separate restarts before the race was eventually started under caution. Pete Bicknell was credited with being the early leader as the initial five laps were run under caution with unusually dry and dusty conditions prevailing between the turns.
 
The red flag unfurled on the initial circuit following a turn one pile-up while a turn four, four-car melee set back the original 38-car field on the ensuing restart. With skies quickly blackening out west and flashes of lightning visible beyond turns three and four, Hearn took over the number one spot from Bicknell on lap eight to set the early tone.
 
The second red flag was thrown just before 3 o'clock as heavy winds swept over and rain inundated the track surface as race teams were allowed onto pit row to seek temporary shelter. With 15 laps scored, Hearn held onto first followed by Bicknell, Ward, Tim Fuller and Coffey. And that same order remained intact when the race resumed nearly 2-1/2-hours later.
 
Back in action before 5:30, a number of minor incidents kept the field in check including a detonated motor suffered by Matt Sheppard on the homestretch to send his nearest competitors seeking better visibility on lap 25. The restart that followed was all that Bicknell needed as 'Mr. Small-Block' returned to the point for a second time on lap 30.
 
While the opposition never waivered in his rear-view mirror, Bicknell kept Hearn at bay as Ward, Andy Bachetti and Friesen found their way among the top-five by the midway mark. It seemed that pit strategy would become a relevant issue as a majority of the leaders had not returned behind the fence since the mandatory stoppage was enforced some 85 laps earlier. At the time, Decker appeared to be a favorite despite running 10th as he was one of the only frontrunners to take on fuel during a lap 34 pit stop.
 
More raindrops on lap 82 and another slowdown curtailed the action with cars remaining out for 21 consecutive laps under yellow. The green lights flashed around the speedway once again and fans began to cheer as cars picked up steam with two-thirds of the race in the record book.
 
The leaders reached traffic on lap 122 and Ward ducked low across  the stripe to take his first lead three laps later. Bicknell returned the favor on lap 130 and as the laps clicked off the St. Catharines, Ontario speedster seemed destined to garner his sixth ITT-Goulds Pumps 358-Modified victory during the annual autumn affair. Yet just a dozen more times around the Moody Mile, Bicknell suddenly dropped back as he became the first victim of a dry fuel cell on lap 142. This set up a final dash to the checkers, yet coming out of turn four to complete lap 149 Ward's owntank ran dry and Hearn was the first in line to collect the hardware.
 
"We had problems with this combination the past two years but never lost faith in it," said Hearn, following his fifth DIRTcar 358-Modified win of the season. The Sussex, N.J. superstar increased his total to 17 at the NYS Fairgrounds with five now scored in 358-Modified main events. "The original plan was to make an early pit stop, we just never thought we'd be doing it on lap 16. Also thought about taking tires early but the way things worked out we decided not to.
 
"We weren't very good on the restarts due to the gear package but that's what gave us the good mileage. It was kind of a work in progress, with the strategy really changing as the race went on. It turned out to be a great call in the pits not to come in but obviously the other guys thought they could make it too. Their combination was different than hours and they didn't make it. Right now I can't be happier for our guys as all their time has finally paid off," said Hearn, as he posed in victory lane alongside the Four Star Motorsports no. 4 Wentworth Custom Homes-Kruger-WLR Construction/TEO housing a potent Morrison powerplant.
 
Friesen found out only hours earlier the night before that he would be behind the wheel of the Brachmann Racing no. 3B Original Pizza Logs/Bicknell entry that was qualified on Thursday by former Syracuse Sportsman winner Chad Brachmann. With only a dozen laps of practice logged on Saturday morning, the road warrior from Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario put on a memorable charge from the back of the pack to secure his best Super DIRT Week finish ever.
 
"What can I say about the car, its amazing .. the whole team is amazing," began Friesen, after his bid to go from last to first fell just a few car-lengths shy at the line. "I've known these guys since I was young and they've got a great organization. And I've been watching Brett race and win at Syracuse since I was a little kid so finishing second to him today is a pretty big accomplishment.
 
"An unfortunate circumstance put us in the car but the team rebounded with a tremendous effort, making all the right calls along the way. I just kept the car smooth and straight and wound up with a great 2nd-place finish. Jack Johnson told me it would take him 12 months to learn a new car, adding 'you young guys can adapt right away.' After riding around so long under caution the guys told me we got enough fuel s go for it. We were looking to conserve fuel up to that point, then the last 10-15 laps run it wide open. Hated to see Pat run out of fuel at the end, it was his race to win."
 
While his teammate Ward fell victim to an empty gas tank in the closing stages, Decker had the LJL Racing no. 91 Gypsum Wholesalers/Bicknell ride poised for a high finish after topping off the tank on a lap 34 pit stop. "You never know the weather here, this is Syracuse. I made a statement early in the week about those meteorologists that said no chance of rain this week and figured they were full of it," Decker said.
 
"That second rain shower enabled those guys to go the distance today. And we probably waited a little too long to turn up the wick. It seemed like we packed the track for an awful long time, I wasn't sure what that was all about. Still, We thought it was a roll of the dice out there. We really didn't think we had a shot but you live and learn … today we ust fell two positions short," Decker added.
 
Leading three times for a race-high total of 114 laps, Bicknell filled up with a splash of racing gasoline before returning one lap down to finish in 18th-place. "I guess we proved it once and for all that the fastest car doesn't always win. We had a real strong car all race, I just don't know where all the gas went. We've got probably the biggest fuel cell you can buy and we still came up a little short."
 
Mr. DIRTcar 358-Modified Series Race #12 – New York State Fairgrounds, Oct. 6, 2007 28th ITT Corporation/Goulds Pumps "Salute To The Troops" 150 Event Summary     
FIN      STR    CAR# DRIVER                                            
1          10        4*        Brett Hearn / Sussex,NJ($20,000)
2          +18    3B       Stewart Friesen / Niagara-o-t-Lake,ONT
3          12        91        Billy Decker / Unadilla,NY
4          22        24        Chris Shultz / Pawling,NY
5          6          32C     Vic Coffey / Leicester,NY
6          31        27J      Danny Johnson / Rochester,NY
7          19        93X     Craig Mitchell / Wappingers Falls,NY®
8          11        14        Rick Laubach / Quakertown,PA
9          20        76A     Jack Johnson / Duanesburg,NY
10        8          12        Ric Hill / Lafayette,NJ®
11        3          19        Tim Fuller / Edwards,NY
12        7          5          J.R. Heffner / Pittsfield,MA
13        4          1X       Willy Decker / Vernon,NY
14        13        22B     Mike Bruno / Castleton,VT
15        27        22        Mario Clair / St-Edmond,QUE®
16        2          42P     Pat Ward / Genoa,NY
17        32        4          Andy Bachetti / Sheffield,MA
18        1          42        Pete Bicknell / St.Catharines,ONT
19        26        145     Roy Bridge / Castleton,NY®
20        29        19K     Paul Kinney / Vernon,NY
21        17        M40    Mark Forte Jr. / Blue Anchor,NJ
22        37        24D     Patrick Dupree / Saranac Lake,NY®
23        25        55P     Perry Francis / Akwesasne,NY
24        21        80        Jeff Marshall / Fort Covington,NY®
25        38        17        Jerry Higbie / Slate Hill,NY
26        14        115     Kenny Tremont / West Sand Lake,NY
27        9          90        Martin Roy / Napierville,QUE
28        28        22G     Eric Gauvreau / Chelsea,QUE®
29        24        959     Brett Graham / Kerhonkson,NY®
30        40        16        Lance Willix II / Theresa,NY
31        23        00        Doug Manmiller / Shoemakersville,PA
32        16        M96    Brian McDonald / Cornwall,ONT
33        30        007     Carey Terrance / Hogansburg,NY
34        5          44S     Matt Sheppard / Waterloo,NY
35        39        77G     Robbie Grant / Malone,NY
36        34        19H     Chris Higgins / Syracuse,NY®
37        15        55        Mitch Gibbs / North Norwich,NY
38        36        9          Mark Smoke / Akwesasne,NY®
DNS   33        45        Wayne Jelley / Pittsfield,MA
DNS   35        37X     Tom Scheetz Jr. / Boyertown,PA®
DNS   41        99        Mike Adderley / Watertown,NY®
DNS   42        93        Rich Vinson / Sanborn,NY
DNS   43        17D     Danny O'Brien / Kingston,ONT
+Relieved qualified driver Chad Brachmann and started last.
EVENT SUMMARY:                                   
LAP LEADERS:   Bicknell (1-7), Hearn (8-29), Bicknell (30-124), Ward (125-129), Bicknell (130-141), Ward (142-148), Hearn (149-150).           
TOTAL LAPS LED:   114-Bicknell, 24-Hearn, 12-Ward.                                  
LEAD CHANGES:  6 among 3 drivers.                           
CAUTIONS:   12 for 60 laps; 2 RED FLAGS (lap 1, lap15).                             
ELAPSED TIME:   2 hr. 45 mins. 31 secs.                                  
AVERAGE SPEED:   54.370 mph.                                  
MARGIN OF VICTORY:   1.360 sec.                                
MIDSTATE GOLF CARS ROOKIE OF THE RACE:   Craig Mitchell.                         
DASAH SPRINT CAR SIMULATOR HARD CHARGER:   Stewart Friesen.            
ORIGINAL PIZZA LOGS HALFWAY BONUS:   Pete Bicknell.                                   
GATER RACING NEWS BEST APPEARING CAR & CREW:   #80 - Jeff Marshall.                                  
NYSSCA 'TOP MEMBER' AWARD:   Brett Hearn.                               
MAGNUM FORCE PEST ELIMINATION HARD LUCK AWARD:   Pat Ward.         
THOMPSON MOTORSPORTS POLE AWARD:  Pat Ward (30.965 sec/116.260 mph).                            
THOMPSON MOTORSPORTS OUTSIDE POLE AWARD:   Pete Bicknell (31.181 sec/115.455 mph).                         
PULLEN'S TRUCK CENTER TWIN-20 RACE WINNER:   Pete Bicknell.               
PULLEN'S TRUCK CENTER TWIN-20 RACE WINNER:   Willy Decker.                 
RACE ROOKIES®:   12.                            
ENTRIES:   48.