Thought I'd dip into the CD folder for some Golden Oldies... this one is a small group of photos from the inaugural Biederman Memorial at Flamboro Speedway in 1999. Thanks to Dave Franks for the use of these shots. Let me know if you like seeing the vintage galleries and I'll post some more. Have a great weekend everyone!Friday, October 19, 2007
VINTAGE PHOTO GALLERY: 1999 Biederman Memorial by Dave Franks
Thought I'd dip into the CD folder for some Golden Oldies... this one is a small group of photos from the inaugural Biederman Memorial at Flamboro Speedway in 1999. Thanks to Dave Franks for the use of these shots. Let me know if you like seeing the vintage galleries and I'll post some more. Have a great weekend everyone!
Product Spotlight: CRC Freeze Off
After a successful launch in the US, CRC Canada announces the much-anticipated release of CRC Freeze Off to the Canadian Automotive Aftermarket. CRC Freeze OffTM offers a new solution to those rusted and corroded fasteners. CRC Freeze-Off™® is a unique penetrant that uses Freeze Shock Action to FREEZE, PENETRATE & LOOSEN rusted and corroded mechanisms.
This unique formula immediately drops the temperature of the area in direct contact with the spray. The freezing effect cracks rusted surfaces, allowing Freeze-Off® to reach deeper & work more effectively than other penetrants. For use in Automotive, Industrial, Marine, Heavy Duty or Household
CRC Canada Co. • 2-1246 Lorimar Drive • Mississauga, Ontario L5S 1R2 T (905) 670.2291 • F (905) 670.5941 • www.crc-canada.ca
NASCAR Mobil 1 Champion Award Presented to Don Thomson Jr.
TORONTO, ON - Imperial Oil is pleased to announce Don Thomson Jr. and the Home Hardware Chevrolet team as the 2007 recipients of the Pegasus Mobil 1 Champion Award. The annual $5,000 award is presented to the race team achieving the highest cumulative score at the conclusion of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series. The award marks the conclusion of the 2007 NASCAR race season in Canada.
"We congratulate Don Thomson Jr. and his team for achieving consistently strong results on the Canadian stock car circuit this season," said Jeff Diederichs, marketing manager, lubes and specialties at Imperial Oil. "Mobil 1 has a strong racing heritage in Canada, in the United States and worldwide and is proud to be involved in the new NASCAR Canadian Tire Series."
Imperial Oil's Mobil 1 lubricants are the official motor oil of NASCAR. An industry leader in the development of innovative, problem-solving lubricants, the Mobil 1 line of automotive lubricants includes motor oil, transmission fluid, gear lubricants and greases, and is one of a list of Imperial Oil performance products endorsed by North America's number one motorsport.
From Public Affairs, Imperial Oil Limited
"We congratulate Don Thomson Jr. and his team for achieving consistently strong results on the Canadian stock car circuit this season," said Jeff Diederichs, marketing manager, lubes and specialties at Imperial Oil. "Mobil 1 has a strong racing heritage in Canada, in the United States and worldwide and is proud to be involved in the new NASCAR Canadian Tire Series."
Imperial Oil's Mobil 1 lubricants are the official motor oil of NASCAR. An industry leader in the development of innovative, problem-solving lubricants, the Mobil 1 line of automotive lubricants includes motor oil, transmission fluid, gear lubricants and greases, and is one of a list of Imperial Oil performance products endorsed by North America's number one motorsport.
From Public Affairs, Imperial Oil Limited
No Titles - But Thomson Jr. Still Nabs Award
Courtesy CNWTORONTO - Imperial Oil is pleased to announce Don ThomsonJr. and the Home Hardware Chevrolet team as the 2007 recipients of the Pegasus Mobil 1 Champion Award.
The annual $5,000 award is presented to the race team achieving the highest cumulative score at the conclusion of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series. The award marks the conclusion of the 2007 NASCAR race season in Canada.
"We congratulate Don Thomson Jr. and his team for achieving consistentlystrong results on the Canadian stock car circuit this season," said JeffDiederichs, marketing manager, lubes and specialties at Imperial Oil. "Mobil 1 has a strong racing heritage in Canada, in the United States and worldwide and is proud to be involved in the new NASCAR Canadian Tire Series."
Imperial Oil's Mobil 1 lubricants are the official motor oil of NASCAR. An industry leader in the development of innovative, problem-solving lubricants, the Mobil 1 line of automotive lubricants includes motor oil,transmission fluid, gear lubricants and greases, and is one of a list of Imperial Oil performance products endorsed by North America's number one motorsport.
2008 Knoll Gas Nitro Jam Schedule
Eighth Mile National Event to Open 2008 Knoll Gas Nitro Jam Schedule
San Antonio Raceway will be the site of a historical season opener for IHRA as for the first time in history a major drag racing sanctioning body will host a scheduled 1/8th mile national event. The Amalie Oil Texas Nationals will take place April 4-6 in San Antonio, bringing IHRA racing to the 1/8th mile strip for the third time ever. Track conditions caused two events on the '07 Knoll Gas Nitro Jam schedule to be switched from quarter-mile events to the 1/8th mile and the response from fans, sponsors and racers opened IHRA officials' eyes to the possibility of scheduling a race under this format.
"Last season we really learned something in San Antonio," IHRA president Aaron Polburn said. "While the quarter-mile has been the standard drag race for a long time, we learned an 1/8th mile national event is a viable, exciting format. The buzz and excitement the Amalie Oil Texas Nationals generated caused us to take a good, hard look at this format. We're very excited to grow this race and build our 1/8th mile national event slate in the future."
Polburn was alluding to the 2009 schedule when speaking of more 1/8th mile national events in the future. Pittsburgh Raceway Park in Western Pennsylvania has begun a $2 million facelift and will host a Knoll Gas Nitro Jam 1/8th mile event in June, 2009.
"We are very excited about the possibilities in the Pittsburgh market," Polburn said. "It is a great area full of extremely passionate sports fans. The Tedesco's have done an incredible job of turning that track into one of our most treasured venues on the Summit Pro-Am circuit and we want to better utilize Pittsburgh Raceway Park. This is a win-win situation…a national event in a sports-crazy market with track operators who know how to promote."
The 2008 Knoll Gas Nitro Jam schedule will kick off April 4-6 with the race in San Antonio. It will then head to North Carolina for the IHRA Spring Nationals, April 18-20 at Rockingham Dragway. The tour then heads north to Michigan for the Motor City Nationals May 23-25 at Milan Dragway. This will be followed by a trip to Western Canada for the July 4-6 Rocky Mountain Nationals at Castrol Raceway in Edmonton. The tour will remain in Canada for the Canadian Nationals at Grand Bend Motorplex July 18-20.
After the Canadian Nationals the Knoll Gas tour will head back to Michigan for the Torco Race Fuels Northern Nationals Aug. 1-3 at Knoll Gas Motorsports Park in Martin. This will be followed by a trip to Tulsa, Oklahoma for the Aug. 22-24 Skull Shine Sooner Nationals. The tour will then swing to the Northeast for the Amalie North American Nationals at New England Dragway Sept. 5-7. IHRA will close the Canadian portion of its schedule Sept. 19-21 at the IHRA Canadian Nationals at Toronto Motorsports Park. Oct. 3-5 will be the dates of the Torco President's Cup Nationals at Maryland International Raceway before the Knoll Gas Nitro Jam season wraps up in Rockingham for the World Finals Oct. 17-19.
2008 Knoll Gas Nitro Jam National Event Schedule
Date Market // Venue
April 4-6 San Antonio, TX // San Antonio Raceway
April 18-20 North and South Carolina // Rockingham Dragway
May 23-25 Detroit, MI // Milan Dragway
July 4-6 Edmonton, AB // Castrol Raceway
July 18-20 Grand Bend, ON // Grand Bend Motorplex
Aug. 1-3 Grand Rapids, MI // Knoll Gas Motorsports Park
Aug. 22-24 Tulsa, OK // Tulsa Raceway Park
Sept. 5-7 Boston, MA // New England Dragway
Sept. 19-21 Toronto, ON // Toronto Motorsports Park
Oct. 3-5 Washington, DC // Maryland International Raceway
Oct. 17-19 North and South Carolina // Rockingham Dragway
From Mike Perry / IHRA
San Antonio Raceway will be the site of a historical season opener for IHRA as for the first time in history a major drag racing sanctioning body will host a scheduled 1/8th mile national event. The Amalie Oil Texas Nationals will take place April 4-6 in San Antonio, bringing IHRA racing to the 1/8th mile strip for the third time ever. Track conditions caused two events on the '07 Knoll Gas Nitro Jam schedule to be switched from quarter-mile events to the 1/8th mile and the response from fans, sponsors and racers opened IHRA officials' eyes to the possibility of scheduling a race under this format.
"Last season we really learned something in San Antonio," IHRA president Aaron Polburn said. "While the quarter-mile has been the standard drag race for a long time, we learned an 1/8th mile national event is a viable, exciting format. The buzz and excitement the Amalie Oil Texas Nationals generated caused us to take a good, hard look at this format. We're very excited to grow this race and build our 1/8th mile national event slate in the future."
Polburn was alluding to the 2009 schedule when speaking of more 1/8th mile national events in the future. Pittsburgh Raceway Park in Western Pennsylvania has begun a $2 million facelift and will host a Knoll Gas Nitro Jam 1/8th mile event in June, 2009.
"We are very excited about the possibilities in the Pittsburgh market," Polburn said. "It is a great area full of extremely passionate sports fans. The Tedesco's have done an incredible job of turning that track into one of our most treasured venues on the Summit Pro-Am circuit and we want to better utilize Pittsburgh Raceway Park. This is a win-win situation…a national event in a sports-crazy market with track operators who know how to promote."
The 2008 Knoll Gas Nitro Jam schedule will kick off April 4-6 with the race in San Antonio. It will then head to North Carolina for the IHRA Spring Nationals, April 18-20 at Rockingham Dragway. The tour then heads north to Michigan for the Motor City Nationals May 23-25 at Milan Dragway. This will be followed by a trip to Western Canada for the July 4-6 Rocky Mountain Nationals at Castrol Raceway in Edmonton. The tour will remain in Canada for the Canadian Nationals at Grand Bend Motorplex July 18-20.
After the Canadian Nationals the Knoll Gas tour will head back to Michigan for the Torco Race Fuels Northern Nationals Aug. 1-3 at Knoll Gas Motorsports Park in Martin. This will be followed by a trip to Tulsa, Oklahoma for the Aug. 22-24 Skull Shine Sooner Nationals. The tour will then swing to the Northeast for the Amalie North American Nationals at New England Dragway Sept. 5-7. IHRA will close the Canadian portion of its schedule Sept. 19-21 at the IHRA Canadian Nationals at Toronto Motorsports Park. Oct. 3-5 will be the dates of the Torco President's Cup Nationals at Maryland International Raceway before the Knoll Gas Nitro Jam season wraps up in Rockingham for the World Finals Oct. 17-19.
2008 Knoll Gas Nitro Jam National Event Schedule
Date
April 4-6
April 18-20
May 23-25
July 4-6
July 18-20
Aug. 1-3
Aug. 22-24
Sept. 5-7
Sept. 19-21
Oct. 3-5
Oct. 17-19
From Mike Perry / IHRA
MOSPORT: Supercars on the Square >> October 22, 2007
MEDIA ADVISORY: Supercars on the SQUARE
Event: Exclusive Vehicle Display and Pit-Stop Demonstration
Location: Metro Hall Square, Toronto (220 Wellington St. West)
Date: Monday, October 22, 2007
Time: 9:00am – 5:00pm (Vehicle Display)
11:30am - 1:30pm (Pit-stop demo)
The Princess Margaret Cash & Cars Lottery and Mosport International Raceway are bringing together—for one day only—the hottest vehicles from both road and track. Join car enthusiasts and dreamers alike at Metro Hall Square in downtown Toronto for an up-close display of the world's most sought-after supercars.
Plus, there will be a pit-stop demonstration from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm from the Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship and Mosport International Raceway.
Display Vehicles
· 3 show cars from the Canadian Castrol Touring Car Championship and Mosport
· Ferrari F430 F1 Coupe
· Aston Martin V8 Vantage
· Johnny Cool Custom Chopper
· Porsche Cayenne
· Mercedes-Benz CLK550 Cabriolet
· BMW 535xi
· Ford Mustang
· Plus the latest hybrids & many more…
Media Contacts:
Pip MacDonald or Ian Eichhorn
Program Coordinators
PMH Cash & Cars Lottery
Tel: 416-450-1817 or 1-866-341-0929
Event:
Location:
Date:
Time:
The Princess Margaret Cash & Cars Lottery and Mosport International Raceway are bringing together—for one day only—the hottest vehicles from both road and track. Join car enthusiasts and dreamers alike at Metro Hall Square in downtown Toronto for an up-close display of the world's most sought-after supercars.
Plus, there will be a pit-stop demonstration from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm from the Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship and Mosport International Raceway.
Display Vehicles
· 3 show cars from the Canadian Castrol Touring Car Championship and Mosport
· Ferrari F430 F1 Coupe
· Aston Martin V8 Vantage
· Johnny Cool Custom Chopper
· Porsche Cayenne
· Mercedes-Benz CLK550 Cabriolet
· BMW 535xi
· Ford Mustang
· Plus the latest hybrids & many more…
Media Contacts:
Pip MacDonald or Ian Eichhorn
Program Coordinators
PMH Cash & Cars Lottery
Tel: 416-450-1817 or 1-866-341-0929
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Dale Earnhardt Inc. and Steve Hmiel Choose to Part Company
MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Oct. 18, 2007) – Dale Earnhardt Inc. and director of competition Steve Hmiel have parted company. Hmiel's responsibilities have been redistributed throughout the organization and his replacement will be named soon.
"I have enjoyed a wonderful association with Dale Earnhardt Inc. over the past nine years," said Hmiel. "It is time for me to pursue other endeavors and reestablish new goals for myself. The management team at Dale Earnhardt Inc. has the company headed in the right direction and it has an exciting future as it continues to fulfill the legacy of Dale Earnhardt."
"Steve has been a part of the success of Dale Earnhardt Inc. and we are grateful for his contributions to the company," said John Story, vice president of motorsports. "We wish him well with his future plans."
From Kevin Woods / DEI
"I have enjoyed a wonderful association with Dale Earnhardt Inc. over the past nine years," said Hmiel. "It is time for me to pursue other endeavors and reestablish new goals for myself. The management team at Dale Earnhardt Inc. has the company headed in the right direction and it has an exciting future as it continues to fulfill the legacy of Dale Earnhardt."
"Steve has been a part of the success of Dale Earnhardt Inc. and we are grateful for his contributions to the company," said John Story, vice president of motorsports. "We wish him well with his future plans."
From Kevin Woods / DEI
RALLY AMERICA 2008 SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED
GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn., Oct. 18, 2007 – The 2008 Rally America National Championship Series season will feature nine proven and popular events, as well as the non-points-paying Rally Car Racing competition at X Games 14.
As in previous years, invitations to participate in the X Games will be influenced by driver performance in the Rally America events held prior to the popular action-sports competition, scheduled for July 31-Aug. 3, 2008 in Los Angeles.
The extreme-sports nature of rallying – Rally America competitors reach speeds well over 100 mph in modified street cars on natural-terrain courses of gravel, dirt or snow – and the sport's inclusion in the X Games has introduced a new generation of fans, competitors and sponsors to the series.
In addition, as a result of close competition and increased media exposure in 2007, interest in the series is at an all-time high, according to Rally America Managing Director J.B. Niday.
"We expect even more excitement in 2008, and with new competitors from both the U.S. and abroad, the competition will be tougher than ever," said Niday.
"We are looking forward to the return of fan favorites such as Tanner Foust, Travis Pastrana, Ken Block, Matt Johnson and Andrew Pinker with new cars, and also some new competitors and new manufacturers becoming involved."
Defending series champion Pastrana is locked in a three-way battle with his Subaru Rally Team USA teammate Block and points leader Pinker as the series heads to the final round of the 2007 Rally America season, the Lake Superior Performance Rally on Oct. 26-27 in Houghton, Mich.
2008 Rally America National Championship Series Schedule
-- Sno*Drift, Atlanta, Mich., Jan. 25-26
-- Rally in the 100 Acre Wood, Salem, Mo., Feb. 22-23
-- Olympus Rally, Olympia, Wash., April 19-20
-- Oregon Trail Rally, Hillsboro, Ore., May 16-18
-- Susquehannock Trail Performance Rally, Wellsboro, Pa., June 7
-- New England Forest Rally, Bethel, Maine, July 11-12 (tentative)
-- Ojibwe Forests Rally, Bemidji, Minn., Aug. 22-23
-- Rally Colorado, Steamboat Springs, Colo., Sept.13-14
-- Lake Superior Performance Rally, Houghton, Mich., Oct. 17-18
About Rally America
Based in Golden Valley, Minn., Rally America sanctions the premier rally racing series in the United States, the Rally America National Championship Series. In 2007, Rally America will conduct nine National Championship events at venues across the country, from Olympia, Wash., to Bethel, Maine. Rally America competitors reach speeds well over 100 mph in modified street cars on natural-terrain courses of gravel, dirt or snow. All Rally America National Championship events are broadcast on ESPN2 from July to November in 2007. Additionally, through a partnership with ESPN, qualifying Rally America drivers are invited to compete in the Summer X Games, the annual leading action-sport event that is broadcast live on ABC and ESPN. For more information, visit www.rally-america.com.
From Ashleigh Lockhart // Rally America/WMG
As in previous years, invitations to participate in the X Games will be influenced by driver performance in the Rally America events held prior to the popular action-sports competition, scheduled for July 31-Aug. 3, 2008 in Los Angeles.
The extreme-sports nature of rallying – Rally America competitors reach speeds well over 100 mph in modified street cars on natural-terrain courses of gravel, dirt or snow – and the sport's inclusion in the X Games has introduced a new generation of fans, competitors and sponsors to the series.
In addition, as a result of close competition and increased media exposure in 2007, interest in the series is at an all-time high, according to Rally America Managing Director J.B. Niday.
"We expect even more excitement in 2008, and with new competitors from both the U.S. and abroad, the competition will be tougher than ever," said Niday.
"We are looking forward to the return of fan favorites such as Tanner Foust, Travis Pastrana, Ken Block, Matt Johnson and Andrew Pinker with new cars, and also some new competitors and new manufacturers becoming involved."
Defending series champion Pastrana is locked in a three-way battle with his Subaru Rally Team USA teammate Block and points leader Pinker as the series heads to the final round of the 2007 Rally America season, the Lake Superior Performance Rally on Oct. 26-27 in Houghton, Mich.
2008 Rally America National Championship Series Schedule
-- Sno*Drift, Atlanta, Mich., Jan. 25-26
-- Rally in the 100 Acre Wood, Salem, Mo., Feb. 22-23
-- Olympus Rally, Olympia, Wash., April 19-20
-- Oregon Trail Rally, Hillsboro, Ore., May 16-18
-- Susquehannock Trail Performance Rally, Wellsboro, Pa., June 7
-- New England Forest Rally, Bethel, Maine, July 11-12 (tentative)
-- Ojibwe Forests Rally, Bemidji, Minn., Aug. 22-23
-- Rally Colorado, Steamboat Springs, Colo., Sept.13-14
-- Lake Superior Performance Rally, Houghton, Mich., Oct. 17-18
About Rally America
Based in Golden Valley, Minn., Rally America sanctions the premier rally racing series in the United States, the Rally America National Championship Series. In 2007, Rally America will conduct nine National Championship events at venues across the country, from Olympia, Wash., to Bethel, Maine. Rally America competitors reach speeds well over 100 mph in modified street cars on natural-terrain courses of gravel, dirt or snow. All Rally America National Championship events are broadcast on ESPN2 from July to November in 2007. Additionally, through a partnership with ESPN, qualifying Rally America drivers are invited to compete in the Summer X Games, the annual leading action-sport event that is broadcast live on ABC and ESPN. For more information, visit www.rally-america.com.
From Ashleigh Lockhart // Rally America/WMG
NCATS: Team 3 Red- EHR Headliner at Snap-on Tools Event
Snap-on Tools' VP Sales & Marketing Brian Ross, looks forward to the Team joining the festivities this weekend. "We are very excited to have our driver Jason Hathaway and Team Crew Chief Giulio Montanari a part of our event this year. They have been great ambassadors of the Snap-on Tools' brand and have had a very successful season. They will be on hand to open the Snap-on Tool Fair on Saturday night with the race car and Jason and Giulio will be our honorary Grand Marshalls for the event. It will be a thrill for all of our franchisees and suppliers alike to get along side a true NASCAR Canadian Tire Series racecar."
The weekend's activities will include a pit box display with all of the Team's Snap-on pit equipment set up to look like a typical day at the races for the Snap-on Tools team. The Team will also host "The Snap-on Tools Pit Stop Challenge" amongst the attendees . The Challenge will exemplify the team work necessary for not only a great pit stop on race day to get Jason in and out of the pits quickly, but also the Team work that creates a successful business relationship within the Snap-on Tools Corporation.
Before the start of the Snap on Tools event the Team will make a stop to visit with long time Team partner Super 8 Motels at the Calgary Super 8 Shawnessy property in southeast Calgary on Friday at 3pm. The car and team transporter along with Jason and Giulio will be on hand to spend some time with the employees and staff and invited local businesses. The Super 8 group will get the chance to meet Jason and Giulio and look over the 500 + horsepower racing machine that Jason pilots each weekend with the familiar bright red, yellow and black Super 8 Motels colours.
"The Super 8 Calgary Shawnessy is excited to welcome Jason and the Team 3 Red/EHR Team to Calgary this week. We are very proud of our relationship with the Team and look forward to our event on Friday afternoon. We are pleased to be their host hotel for the weekend's events and look forward to seeing the car and the Team." said Super 8 Shawnessy General Manager Ed Belanger.
Team 3 Red/EHR with driver Jason Hathaway behind the wheel of their 2007 Dodge Charger/Avenger competes in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series. In the Series' inaugural season, the 12 race schedule took Team 3 Red/EHR to 8 oval track events and 4 road courses or temporary street course events across the country from Vernon British Columbia to Anitgonish, Nova Scotia. The team finished a solid 9th place in the 41 car field in Driver & Owners Standings and achieved the honour of being the Team to complete the most laps over all of the events throughout the 2007 season.
Team 3 Red/EHR is proud to be associated with their great sponsors and supporters. Team 3 Red/EHR thanks Snap-on Tools, Super 8 Motels, Advantex Freight Forwarders, Fast Eddie Racewear and Choko Motorsports, Briggs & Stratton, Castrol, Napoleon Fireplaces & Barbeques, Xilarate Sports Fluid, Praxair, BOSCH Canada and The Busted Knuckle Garage. For more information on our sponsors please visit our website at www.team3red.com .
###
From Jamie Hakonson // Team 3 Red/Ed Hakonson Racing
Raceline Radio Network Newsletter
Raceline Radio's Tomas Tales... By Erik Tomas
Rules. Can't race with 'em…can't race without 'em.
Most of the awkward moments in this sport are rooted in rule enforcement failure and/or inaccurate rule interpretation.
The baseline method around rules is universal.
All you need to do is make your rule book thorough and easy to understand, trying very hard to remove all grey areas. It's not easy, but you need to make certain rules can only be read one way. Black and white, eliminating all "ya but… what if's"
Are you going to hit all areas and all circumstances perfectly right off the bat? Of course not. But if you listen and watch, those adjustments can be made quickly and effectively as required.
If your rules are fair, the fuse you must not ever light is relaxing the rules because drivers badger track management after getting caught violating them. This happens all the time, especially at the local and regional track levels. Johnny Rapid in the # 35 threatens never to come back if his penalty for an illegal carburetor is enforced.
The second you relax the rules and start altering penalties for certain drivers because their violation was unintentional, or you think your entire program hinges on one self-centered driver, it's seen as playing favourites and you've lost all authority and credibility. It's a very slippery slope.
Couple of examples lately at both ends of the sport illustrate what I'm talking about.
Forget all the political crap around "Stepney Gate" in Formula One. Why was McLaren removed from the critical Constructors Championship for allegedly using stolen Ferrari tech secrets on their cars, but were allowed to continue fighting for the Driver's Championship? If McLaren used illegal cars to win races and collect points, why weren't their points wiped out and why weren't Alonso and Hamilton disqualified for the balance of the season?
At Super DIRT Week at Syracuse a few days ago, Brett Hearn was first across the finish line in the 358 modified championship race, but a doctored fuel cell and a strange size fuel log, or fuel connection to the carburetor were discovered in post race tech.
Ready? The rule enforcers decided the rules were broken, but did not give Hearn a performance advantage, so he kept the win, kept the purse money and was fined a laughable one thousand dollars. I would say removing baffling from a fuel cell to up the capacity IS a performance advantage, considering Pete Bicknell and Pat Ward ran out of gas in the end, handing the win to Hearn. Many a race at Syracuse has been won or lost on fuel mileage. That's why teams try to find ways to carry more gas!
DIRT, the sanctioning body, is now guilty of playing in that grey area. They are not enforcing the rules. If you win using an illegal car: NO points, NO money, NO win! Like the Formula One example. So what's to stop other drivers now from altering their fuel cells to carry more gas? It tells other teams you can cheat your brains out in F-1, and you will still be allowed to win a driver's championship. See what I mean by a slippery slope?
NASCAR, though FAR from perfect, did it right in the Carl Edwards case at Dover. One rear corner of his car was too low. Didn't matter HOW, or WHY, or whether not it was intentional, accidental or performance enhancing. NASCAR tech'd the car, and it flunked! They published the rule that was violated, and despite an appeal, stuck to their rule book. Edwards lost 25 driver points, the team lost owner points, and the crew chief was fined. No grey area, no inconsistencies, thereby reducing the temptation to cheat.
No, you will never take that element out of the sport completely, but from Formula One, to NASCAR, to DIRT to the local tracks, proper and unwavering rule enforcement isn't only the RIGHT thing to do, it's the FAIR thing to do.
What do YOU think?
Any suggestions? Opinions? Comments on the show? Better ideas? Keep the E-Mails rolling in for The Raceline E-Mail Bag! The address: erik@raceline.ca We always invite your feedback!
Miss a show? Go to The TEAM 1040's Vancouver's website www.team1040.ca and click on their pod cast icon and it's all there!
Until next time, talk to ya'll on Raceline Radio! ET
Rules. Can't race with 'em…can't race without 'em.
Most of the awkward moments in this sport are rooted in rule enforcement failure and/or inaccurate rule interpretation.
The baseline method around rules is universal.
All you need to do is make your rule book thorough and easy to understand, trying very hard to remove all grey areas. It's not easy, but you need to make certain rules can only be read one way. Black and white, eliminating all "ya but… what if's"
Are you going to hit all areas and all circumstances perfectly right off the bat? Of course not. But if you listen and watch, those adjustments can be made quickly and effectively as required.
If your rules are fair, the fuse you must not ever light is relaxing the rules because drivers badger track management after getting caught violating them. This happens all the time, especially at the local and regional track levels. Johnny Rapid in the # 35 threatens never to come back if his penalty for an illegal carburetor is enforced.
The second you relax the rules and start altering penalties for certain drivers because their violation was unintentional, or you think your entire program hinges on one self-centered driver, it's seen as playing favourites and you've lost all authority and credibility. It's a very slippery slope.
Couple of examples lately at both ends of the sport illustrate what I'm talking about.
Forget all the political crap around "Stepney Gate" in Formula One. Why was McLaren removed from the critical Constructors Championship for allegedly using stolen Ferrari tech secrets on their cars, but were allowed to continue fighting for the Driver's Championship? If McLaren used illegal cars to win races and collect points, why weren't their points wiped out and why weren't Alonso and Hamilton disqualified for the balance of the season?
At Super DIRT Week at Syracuse a few days ago, Brett Hearn was first across the finish line in the 358 modified championship race, but a doctored fuel cell and a strange size fuel log, or fuel connection to the carburetor were discovered in post race tech.
Ready? The rule enforcers decided the rules were broken, but did not give Hearn a performance advantage, so he kept the win, kept the purse money and was fined a laughable one thousand dollars. I would say removing baffling from a fuel cell to up the capacity IS a performance advantage, considering Pete Bicknell and Pat Ward ran out of gas in the end, handing the win to Hearn. Many a race at Syracuse has been won or lost on fuel mileage. That's why teams try to find ways to carry more gas!
DIRT, the sanctioning body, is now guilty of playing in that grey area. They are not enforcing the rules. If you win using an illegal car: NO points, NO money, NO win! Like the Formula One example. So what's to stop other drivers now from altering their fuel cells to carry more gas? It tells other teams you can cheat your brains out in F-1, and you will still be allowed to win a driver's championship. See what I mean by a slippery slope?
NASCAR, though FAR from perfect, did it right in the Carl Edwards case at Dover. One rear corner of his car was too low. Didn't matter HOW, or WHY, or whether not it was intentional, accidental or performance enhancing. NASCAR tech'd the car, and it flunked! They published the rule that was violated, and despite an appeal, stuck to their rule book. Edwards lost 25 driver points, the team lost owner points, and the crew chief was fined. No grey area, no inconsistencies, thereby reducing the temptation to cheat.
No, you will never take that element out of the sport completely, but from Formula One, to NASCAR, to DIRT to the local tracks, proper and unwavering rule enforcement isn't only the RIGHT thing to do, it's the FAIR thing to do.
What do YOU think?
Any suggestions? Opinions? Comments on the show? Better ideas? Keep the E-Mails rolling in for The Raceline E-Mail Bag! The address: erik@raceline.ca We always invite your feedback!
Miss a show? Go to The TEAM 1040's Vancouver's website www.team1040.ca and click on their pod cast icon and it's all there!
Until next time, talk to ya'll on Raceline Radio! ET
AIM Autosport & Camp Boggy Creek
AIM Autosport and the Grand American Road Racing Association offered a fan's dream during the Oct. 12 Champagne Ball auction to benefit Camp Boggy Creek in Eustis, Fla. The Canadian Daytona Prototype team combined with the series to create an honourary crew membership for the 2008 Rolex 24 At Daytona in January, giving the high bidder an inside view of Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series racing.
Gene Reed of Charleston, S.C., bid $5000 for the package, which includes track credentials, hot-pit passes and luxury suite access during the 24-hour race. As AIM's guest, he will receive private engineering and technical briefings, attend a driver meeting and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour. His race souvenirs will include team clothing and a custom poster signed by Grey's Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey, who also competes in the Rolex Series.
Grand-Am president Roger Edmondson has worked tirelessly to support Camp Boggy Creek. He was excited to team with AIM to present the Rolex 24 package.
"Boggy Creek isn't just a proud charity of Grand-Am. It's a very special place that has become part of our racing community," he said. "It's great to see a young team like AIM Autosport participate in such a meaningful way. The entire crew visited the camp in July to support the Frisselle brothers' mini-golf tournament, and now AIM has joined with us to raise $5000 for the camp. We look forward to continuing this wonderful association."
Ian Willis, co-owner of AIM Autosport, noted Reed's contribution will give two children a memorable week at Camp Boggy Creek, one of the Hole in The Wall Camps founded by actor Paul Newman for children who have chronic or life-threatening illnesses.
"AIM is proud to support Camp Boggy Creek and we are very excited that Gene will join our team for an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience at the Rolex 24," Willis said. "We are looking forward to our second year in the series and a continued association with Camp Boggy Creek. Gene will certainly enjoy his prize, but equally important is the joy that two deserving young children will get by visiting the camp courtesy of his generous bid."
Last week's auction raised more than $200,000 for Camp Boggy Creek. Sarah Gurtis, Boggy Creek's vice-president of marketing and corporate development, was thrilled with the racers' support.
"Our largest fundraiser of the year, the Daytona Harley-Davidson Ride For Children, now includes a Champagne Ball. Supporting that event is just one more way that Grand-Am and AIM Autosport have stepped up to help Camp Boggy Creek. Their VIP package for the 2008 Rolex 24 At Daytona will be an experience to remember for a lifetime and we cannot thank them enough," she said.
The Rolex 24 At Daytona is scheduled for Jan. 26 and 27 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla.
From Sylvia Proudfoot for AIM Autosport
Gene Reed of Charleston, S.C., bid $5000 for the package, which includes track credentials, hot-pit passes and luxury suite access during the 24-hour race. As AIM's guest, he will receive private engineering and technical briefings, attend a driver meeting and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour. His race souvenirs will include team clothing and a custom poster signed by Grey's Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey, who also competes in the Rolex Series.
Grand-Am president Roger Edmondson has worked tirelessly to support Camp Boggy Creek. He was excited to team with AIM to present the Rolex 24 package.
"Boggy Creek isn't just a proud charity of Grand-Am. It's a very special place that has become part of our racing community," he said. "It's great to see a young team like AIM Autosport participate in such a meaningful way. The entire crew visited the camp in July to support the Frisselle brothers' mini-golf tournament, and now AIM has joined with us to raise $5000 for the camp. We look forward to continuing this wonderful association."
Ian Willis, co-owner of AIM Autosport, noted Reed's contribution will give two children a memorable week at Camp Boggy Creek, one of the Hole in The Wall Camps founded by actor Paul Newman for children who have chronic or life-threatening illnesses.
"AIM is proud to support Camp Boggy Creek and we are very excited that Gene will join our team for an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience at the Rolex 24," Willis said. "We are looking forward to our second year in the series and a continued association with Camp Boggy Creek. Gene will certainly enjoy his prize, but equally important is the joy that two deserving young children will get by visiting the camp courtesy of his generous bid."
Last week's auction raised more than $200,000 for Camp Boggy Creek. Sarah Gurtis, Boggy Creek's vice-president of marketing and corporate development, was thrilled with the racers' support.
"Our largest fundraiser of the year, the Daytona Harley-Davidson Ride For Children, now includes a Champagne Ball. Supporting that event is just one more way that Grand-Am and AIM Autosport have stepped up to help Camp Boggy Creek. Their VIP package for the 2008 Rolex 24 At Daytona will be an experience to remember for a lifetime and we cannot thank them enough," she said.
The Rolex 24 At Daytona is scheduled for Jan. 26 and 27 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla.
From Sylvia Proudfoot for AIM Autosport
Cherry Bomb Glasspack turns 40
Robert Mater, Jr., former marketing director at Maremont responsible for launching the brand, says, "Those were great times. It was the heyday of the hot rod and any muscle car worth its salt had to have a pair of "Bombs. We couldn't manufacture them fast enough. In the 80s that all began to change as there was more calls for a restriction on power, and more emphasis on safety. This coincided with the EPA's demand for use of a catalytic converter which greatly affected the muscle car industry."
In March 2006, father and son entrepreneurs, Ken and Paul Banks purchased all rights to the Cherry Bomb product line and Maremont's 630,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Loudon, TN. With an acute understanding of the value of brand equity and a long history in the exhaust business as owners of the International Muffler Company (IMCO), the new owners from Schulenburg, TX recognized the value of reinvigorating the brand with improved technology, an expanded product line and increased marketing support.
The original Glasspack had a brightly painted steel housing, a metal baffle interior channel surrounded with a layer of fiberglass insulation. Today's Cherry Bomb Glasspack is produced from high quality cold rolled aluminized tubing, and features a more durable, rust resistant powder coat , still in its characteristic red color. Tuned to perfection in a first class dyno facility, the Cherry Bomb Glasspack still has a throaty sound and is available for most make & model vehicles.
In addition to the Cherry Bomb Glasspack, IMCO/Maremont, the parent company since 2006, now offers five other Cherry Bomb muffler products, each created with their own unique, patented design that provides improved horsepower and a characteristic high performance sound including: Cherry Bomb Pro, Cherry Bomb Elite, Cherry Bomb Extreme, Cherry Bomb Turbo, and the company's top-of-the-line, most technologically advanced product, the Cherry Bomb Vortex. Additionally Cherry Bomb now offers a wide range of cat backs, straight and X pipes, exhaust accessories and a very popular line of apparel including hats, garage jackets, tee shirts and more.
Paul Banks, owner, says, "Chery Bomb is a timeless American classic. It is probably one of the most revered brands in automotive history. We're having fun keeping this product in the forefront and ensuring its success for the long run."
For more information about the full line of Cherry Bomb mufflers, systems and accessories, visit www.cherrybomb.com, or call 866-869-9704. For more information about Maremont/IMCO, please contact Leslie Maxwell at 615/952-3917.
SOS: Turford back as club President
The Southern Ontario Sprints (SOS) held their annual Fall Elections and General Meeting on Sunday, October 14th and I'm pleased to introduce the SOS Executive and Board of Directors for the 2008 season.
President Peter Turford // Vice President Dick Mahoney // Secretary Terri Watson // Treasurer Helen Brown // Board of Directors - John Watson, Bob Martin, Warren Lindsay & Mike Ferrell
From Bill Oldroyd:
I would personally like to welcome Peter Turford back to the position of President. This is the position Peter held for 5 years prior to me taking over in 2006 and I'm confident that he will once again guide the club in the right direction. During Pete's previous time at the helm, the SOS prospered and with his knowledge of the sport, I have no doubt that he will once again be successful in meeting all the challenges that lie ahead.
I'd also like to welcome Terri Watson, Bob Martin, Warren Lindsay and Mike Ferrell as new members to the Executive/Board. Terri Watson is John's better half and has worked behind the scenes during the last couple of seasons in several areas. Bob Martin is SOS rookie Justin Martin's father and crew chief. Mike Ferrell who was a rookie driver in 2006 will also be joining the Board and the last new member to the Board is SOS Fireman and Tech Inspector, Warren Lindsay. It is pleasing to know that the SOS will be in good hands as I exit my post.
As I reflect back on my time with the SOS (over 5 years), so many great memories come to mind. However, it is easy to pick the one that stands out over all the others; that being all the great people that I was fortunate enough to have been associated with and to have befriended over this time. Also near the top of the list is the knowledge that I've gain about sprint car racing and all the behind the scenes activities. I truly have a much better appreciation of the effort that is expended to make the shows run smoothly. The volunteers that help make this happen are the true heroes.
I'd be remiss if I didn't talk about the drivers and crews. The SOS is very fortunate to have such a great bunch of people associated with the race teams. I can't tell you how many times I saw people helping each other when there was a need. This is not something that takes place in every organization. You should all be very proud of this fact and work hard to maintain this atmosphere, regardless of how big the club gets.
Other things that I enjoyed were the record car counts, tons of rookies joining the SOS and the Yearbook. All of these were very gratifying to me. Going forward, I've decided to step back for a while to do some camping and to spend more time with Jenny, my better half. However, that doesn't mean that I'll be a stranger. I will be out supporting the SOS whenever the opportunity presents itself. I also want to spend some time going to other tracks such as Eldora, that I was not able to do with my commitment to the SOS.
I truly wish the SOS all the best in the future and hope that your new Executive/Board gets your support. The SOS is facing some real challenges but I'm confident that the right decisions will be made to keep the SOS strong.
Thanks so much to everyone for your support over the past few years and I'll see you at the track.
Bill Oldroyd
President Peter Turford // Vice President Dick Mahoney // Secretary Terri Watson // Treasurer Helen Brown // Board of Directors - John Watson, Bob Martin, Warren Lindsay & Mike Ferrell
From Bill Oldroyd:
I would personally like to welcome Peter Turford back to the position of President. This is the position Peter held for 5 years prior to me taking over in 2006 and I'm confident that he will once again guide the club in the right direction. During Pete's previous time at the helm, the SOS prospered and with his knowledge of the sport, I have no doubt that he will once again be successful in meeting all the challenges that lie ahead.
I'd also like to welcome Terri Watson, Bob Martin, Warren Lindsay and Mike Ferrell as new members to the Executive/Board. Terri Watson is John's better half and has worked behind the scenes during the last couple of seasons in several areas. Bob Martin is SOS rookie Justin Martin's father and crew chief. Mike Ferrell who was a rookie driver in 2006 will also be joining the Board and the last new member to the Board is SOS Fireman and Tech Inspector, Warren Lindsay. It is pleasing to know that the SOS will be in good hands as I exit my post.
As I reflect back on my time with the SOS (over 5 years), so many great memories come to mind. However, it is easy to pick the one that stands out over all the others; that being all the great people that I was fortunate enough to have been associated with and to have befriended over this time. Also near the top of the list is the knowledge that I've gain about sprint car racing and all the behind the scenes activities. I truly have a much better appreciation of the effort that is expended to make the shows run smoothly. The volunteers that help make this happen are the true heroes.
I'd be remiss if I didn't talk about the drivers and crews. The SOS is very fortunate to have such a great bunch of people associated with the race teams. I can't tell you how many times I saw people helping each other when there was a need. This is not something that takes place in every organization. You should all be very proud of this fact and work hard to maintain this atmosphere, regardless of how big the club gets.
Other things that I enjoyed were the record car counts, tons of rookies joining the SOS and the Yearbook. All of these were very gratifying to me. Going forward, I've decided to step back for a while to do some camping and to spend more time with Jenny, my better half. However, that doesn't mean that I'll be a stranger. I will be out supporting the SOS whenever the opportunity presents itself. I also want to spend some time going to other tracks such as Eldora, that I was not able to do with my commitment to the SOS.
I truly wish the SOS all the best in the future and hope that your new Executive/Board gets your support. The SOS is facing some real challenges but I'm confident that the right decisions will be made to keep the SOS strong.
Thanks so much to everyone for your support over the past few years and I'll see you at the track.
Bill Oldroyd
A1GP: F1 Legend Fittipaldi To Return To The Track
London, Great Britain - Emerson Fittipaldi has vowed to come out of retirement to test the new Ferrari-powered A1GP World Cup of Motorsport car next season.
The 60-year-old A1 Team Brazil boss is so excited about A1GP's involvement with Ferrari that he has confirmed he will get back behind the wheel to test the contemporary single-seater.
Following last week's historic announcement that the Italian sports car manufacturer will supply all engines to A1GP from next season, Fittipaldi, who never drove for Ferrari in his Formula One career, will not race the car but instead will look to get behind the wheel at the earliest opportunity.
"When I was told about the possibility of Ferrari coming on board I thought it was brilliant," Fittipaldi said.
"The Ferrari name alone is incredible and people are going to give A1GP more respect and we are going to be much bigger. When Ferrari's people visited us in Zandvoort they loved our A1GP weekend and they are very enthusiastic to get involved with A1GP.
"Ferrari will help design a beautiful car. I always wanted to drive for Ferrari and now I can! I will at least test the car. I won't race it, but I want to test the car. I'm very excited about it.
"The partnership with Ferrari will make more drivers want to get involved in A1GP too. It will be an exciting formula for the racing."
From A1GP
The 60-year-old A1 Team Brazil boss is so excited about A1GP's involvement with Ferrari that he has confirmed he will get back behind the wheel to test the contemporary single-seater.
Following last week's historic announcement that the Italian sports car manufacturer will supply all engines to A1GP from next season, Fittipaldi, who never drove for Ferrari in his Formula One career, will not race the car but instead will look to get behind the wheel at the earliest opportunity.
"When I was told about the possibility of Ferrari coming on board I thought it was brilliant," Fittipaldi said.
"The Ferrari name alone is incredible and people are going to give A1GP more respect and we are going to be much bigger. When Ferrari's people visited us in Zandvoort they loved our A1GP weekend and they are very enthusiastic to get involved with A1GP.
"Ferrari will help design a beautiful car. I always wanted to drive for Ferrari and now I can! I will at least test the car. I won't race it, but I want to test the car. I'm very excited about it.
"The partnership with Ferrari will make more drivers want to get involved in A1GP too. It will be an exciting formula for the racing."
From A1GP
PMRA: Como's in Niagara Falls to host banquet
CAYUGA, ONTARIO (October 17, 2007) - The upcoming PMRA Champions Banquet is fast approaching, and is promising to be the best yet to honor the winners of this Pro Modified series.
"Interest and ticket sales for our banquet have been excellent," said PMRA Director of Operations Bruce Mehlenbacher. "Over one-third of our teams are based in the United States, and having our banquet this year at Como's in New York State will add to the PMRA's international flavor."
This year's season-ending festivities will be held at the Como's Francesco Hall in Niagara Falls, New York, Saturday, November 10.
Receiving top honors this year will be Bruce Boland of Hamilton, Ontario. The veteran competitor took his first PMRA Points Championship sponsored by Wix Filtration Products, Valvoline, Uni-Select, and Moen Incorporated in 2007 with the B & B Racing 1953 Corvette.
Taking second was a tie in the series this year between PMRA rookies Matt Guenther of Livonia, New York in the Guenther Racing Team 1941 Willys, the only nitrous-powered Pro Modified in the series and Scott Wildgust of Stratford, Ontario, in the Ajax Engines 1957 Chevy. Next was Ike Maier of Tottenham, Ontario, in his 1967 Camaro, and Sam Andreacchi of Toronto, Ontario placed fifth with his 1969 Chevrolet Nova.
Event organizers are excited about this year's banquet venue, the famous and popular Como Restaurant, a Niagara Falls landmark since 1927, specializing in the best in Italian cuisine.
A limited number of tickets are available on a first come, first serve basis.
Entering its fourth year of operation, The Pro Modified Racing Association continues to enjoy strong fan popularity and for 2007 presented some of the best in Pro Modified drag racing in North America.
The PMRA traveled to several drag strips in 2007, including two dates at Toronto Motorsports Park in Cayuga, Ontario, Lancaster Raceway Park in New York State, Sanair in Quebec, and a season-closer at the Southwestern Ontario track of the Grand Bend Motorplex.
About the Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA):
The Pro Modified Racing Association, http://www.promodifiedracing.com/, was organized late in 2004, started racing operations in 2005, and is entering its fourth year of operation. The PMRA is a self-governing organization with input from its teams. The series abides to the technical and safety rules as outlined by the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) and the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). The series has event venues in Ontario, Quebec, and New York State.
Cars in the PMRA capture the true spirit of hot rodding, and the class is one of drag racing's most exciting and volatile classes, offering a diverse group of race cars with different types of 2,500-horsepower engines.
Combining classic body styles and modern equipment, constructors are permitted, within established rules and parameters, to modify and enhance the cars in both appearance and performance. The cars are fuelled by gasoline or methanol, propelling them down the quarter-mile in low six-second times at over 200 miles per hour. The PMRA provides drag race fans the opportunity to see, hear, and experience the popular Pro Modifieds, known as "the world's fastest door slammers".
From the PMRA
"Interest and ticket sales for our banquet have been excellent," said PMRA Director of Operations Bruce Mehlenbacher. "Over one-third of our teams are based in the United States, and having our banquet this year at Como's in New York State will add to the PMRA's international flavor."
This year's season-ending festivities will be held at the Como's Francesco Hall in Niagara Falls, New York, Saturday, November 10.
Receiving top honors this year will be Bruce Boland of Hamilton, Ontario. The veteran competitor took his first PMRA Points Championship sponsored by Wix Filtration Products, Valvoline, Uni-Select, and Moen Incorporated in 2007 with the B & B Racing 1953 Corvette.
Taking second was a tie in the series this year between PMRA rookies Matt Guenther of Livonia, New York in the Guenther Racing Team 1941 Willys, the only nitrous-powered Pro Modified in the series and Scott Wildgust of Stratford, Ontario, in the Ajax Engines 1957 Chevy. Next was Ike Maier of Tottenham, Ontario, in his 1967 Camaro, and Sam Andreacchi of Toronto, Ontario placed fifth with his 1969 Chevrolet Nova.
Event organizers are excited about this year's banquet venue, the famous and popular Como Restaurant, a Niagara Falls landmark since 1927, specializing in the best in Italian cuisine.
A limited number of tickets are available on a first come, first serve basis.
Entering its fourth year of operation, The Pro Modified Racing Association continues to enjoy strong fan popularity and for 2007 presented some of the best in Pro Modified drag racing in North America.
The PMRA traveled to several drag strips in 2007, including two dates at Toronto Motorsports Park in Cayuga, Ontario, Lancaster Raceway Park in New York State, Sanair in Quebec, and a season-closer at the Southwestern Ontario track of the Grand Bend Motorplex.
About the Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA):
The Pro Modified Racing Association, http://www.promodifiedracing.com/, was organized late in 2004, started racing operations in 2005, and is entering its fourth year of operation. The PMRA is a self-governing organization with input from its teams. The series abides to the technical and safety rules as outlined by the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) and the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). The series has event venues in Ontario, Quebec, and New York State.
Cars in the PMRA capture the true spirit of hot rodding, and the class is one of drag racing's most exciting and volatile classes, offering a diverse group of race cars with different types of 2,500-horsepower engines.
Combining classic body styles and modern equipment, constructors are permitted, within established rules and parameters, to modify and enhance the cars in both appearance and performance. The cars are fuelled by gasoline or methanol, propelling them down the quarter-mile in low six-second times at over 200 miles per hour. The PMRA provides drag race fans the opportunity to see, hear, and experience the popular Pro Modifieds, known as "the world's fastest door slammers".
From the PMRA
MOTO-ST: Go Big Racing Ready To Beat The Heat With New Sponsor For Daytona
The SunTrust Moto-ST Endurance Series finale is set to take place this weekend at the historic Daytona International Speedway and Ross Millson (Hamilton, ON), Paul Glenn (Keene, ON) of Go Big Racing and fellow Canadian rider Karl Daigle (Granby, ON), are ready to make a run at the ST Class Championship during the final 8 hour endurance race with the addition of AVAcore Technologies Inc. (http://www.avacore.com/) as a sponsor for the Daytona race.
Go Big Racing will be using AVAcore's CoreControl powered by RTX (Rapid Thermal eXchange) system in the pits to assist the three rider team and crew to beat the heat during the 8 hour test of endurance and strategy. The CoreControl system will be monitored by team trainers Angie and Mike Hallman of New Hamburg, ON.
The CoreControl, powered by RTX, is cutting edge technology developed at Stanford University for core body heat extraction. CoreControl enhances the natural heat dissipation system of the body through a combined application of optimal temperature and a slight vacuum. Heat extraction is beneficial for maintaining peak mental and physical performance, or in accelerating recovery from heat stress. It has been field-tested by many collegiate and professional athletes, industrial workers, Military personnel, and Multiple Sclerosis sufferers who are heat sensitive. Studies involving athletes, firefighters and electrical workers have validated the effectiveness of this new cooling method and demonstrated remarkable results.
"The quickest and most effective way to cool down is from cooling your blood. Our hand-held CoreControl units are designed to take the most direct path through the specialized blood vessels in the palm of your hand and work to cool your body from the inside out" explains Mark Smith, AVAcore Vice President of research and technology. "This technology is a natural fit with the high temperatures on the track and in the pits of an 8 hour endurance race and we are pleased to be able to showcase our product with the Go Big Racing team."
"We are looking to capitalize on every advantage that will put us in a position to win and we feel the CoreControl system will help us combat the temperature at the track" commented Glenn on the reasoning behind the partnership with AVAcore.
"In addition to helping us at the track, Go Big Racing hopes to showcase the CoreControl system to the competitive motorcycle racing market" added Millson.
The past few weeks have been extremely busy for the Go BIG Racing team. Besides developing the recent partnerships with AVAcore and Ready Fastener for Daytona, the team have been feverishly preparing the #79 Summit Gearworks/Ready Fastener/Infinet Designs sponsored Suzuki SV650 for the final race.
"We have to thank Ultimate Cycle, Scott Laidman and Blaine Groves for their tireless help in getting the bike in top shape." commented Millson "…we also need to thank the crew from JD Graphics for making sure all our sponsors get exposure on the bike and in the paddock.
In other news, live video from the SunTrust Moto-ST 8 Hours of Daytona will be broadcast over the Internet on Hello World TV at: www.helloworld.com/motorcycleracing (Click on Watch TV) where Brett Ray will be shooting pit stops and getting rider perspectives throughout the race.
Speed TV will broadcast of all 6 rounds of the SunTrust MOTO-ST Endurance Series with The 8-hour finale from Daytona airing January 8, 2008. Visit http://www.speedtv.com/ for complete broadcast details.
Visit: http://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, AVAcore Technologies Inc., MotorcycleCourse.com, JD Graphics, Turn 2 Sportbike Rentals, Mimic Industries, Ultimate Cycle, Bickle Tire Warmers, Accelerated Technologies, Bagshaw Performance Inc and Corner 2 Racing.
From Go Big Racing
Go Big Racing will be using AVAcore's CoreControl powered by RTX (Rapid Thermal eXchange) system in the pits to assist the three rider team and crew to beat the heat during the 8 hour test of endurance and strategy. The CoreControl system will be monitored by team trainers Angie and Mike Hallman of New Hamburg, ON.
The CoreControl, powered by RTX, is cutting edge technology developed at Stanford University for core body heat extraction. CoreControl enhances the natural heat dissipation system of the body through a combined application of optimal temperature and a slight vacuum. Heat extraction is beneficial for maintaining peak mental and physical performance, or in accelerating recovery from heat stress. It has been field-tested by many collegiate and professional athletes, industrial workers, Military personnel, and Multiple Sclerosis sufferers who are heat sensitive. Studies involving athletes, firefighters and electrical workers have validated the effectiveness of this new cooling method and demonstrated remarkable results.
"The quickest and most effective way to cool down is from cooling your blood. Our hand-held CoreControl units are designed to take the most direct path through the specialized blood vessels in the palm of your hand and work to cool your body from the inside out" explains Mark Smith, AVAcore Vice President of research and technology. "This technology is a natural fit with the high temperatures on the track and in the pits of an 8 hour endurance race and we are pleased to be able to showcase our product with the Go Big Racing team."
"We are looking to capitalize on every advantage that will put us in a position to win and we feel the CoreControl system will help us combat the temperature at the track" commented Glenn on the reasoning behind the partnership with AVAcore.
"In addition to helping us at the track, Go Big Racing hopes to showcase the CoreControl system to the competitive motorcycle racing market" added Millson.
The past few weeks have been extremely busy for the Go BIG Racing team. Besides developing the recent partnerships with AVAcore and Ready Fastener for Daytona, the team have been feverishly preparing the #79 Summit Gearworks/Ready Fastener/Infinet Designs sponsored Suzuki SV650 for the final race.
"We have to thank Ultimate Cycle, Scott Laidman and Blaine Groves for their tireless help in getting the bike in top shape." commented Millson "…we also need to thank the crew from JD Graphics for making sure all our sponsors get exposure on the bike and in the paddock.
In other news, live video from the SunTrust Moto-ST 8 Hours of Daytona will be broadcast over the Internet on Hello World TV at: www.helloworld.com/motorcycleracing (Click on Watch TV) where Brett Ray will be shooting pit stops and getting rider perspectives throughout the race.
Speed TV will broadcast of all 6 rounds of the SunTrust MOTO-ST Endurance Series with The 8-hour finale from Daytona airing January 8, 2008. Visit http://www.speedtv.com/ for complete broadcast details.
Visit: http://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, AVAcore Technologies Inc., MotorcycleCourse.com, JD Graphics, Turn 2 Sportbike Rentals, Mimic Industries, Ultimate Cycle, Bickle Tire Warmers, Accelerated Technologies, Bagshaw Performance Inc and Corner 2 Racing.
From Go Big Racing
NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown News & Notes 10/17/07
Ranger, Lopez Add International Flavor
The Race: NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown
The Place: Irwindale (Calif.) Speedway
The Event: 150-lap Super Late Model race and 250-lap Grand National Division race
The Date: Friday, Oct. 19 and Saturday, Oct. 20
TV: SPEED (live)
Track Layout: half-mile oval
Race Purse: $467,980
Schedule:
Friday: Super Late Model Practice, 10-10:45 a.m. Grand National Practice, 10:55-11:55 a.m. Super Late Model Practice, 12-12:45 p.m. Grand National Practice, 12:50-1:50 p.m. Super Late Model Time Trials, 2:30 p.m. Grand National Time Trials, 5 p.m. Super Late Model Race, 6:15 p.m. Grand National Open Qualifier (50 laps), 7:30 p.m.
Saturday: Grand National Division Race, 7:30 p.m.
Track Contact:
Kevin O'Brien (626) 358-1100; kobrien@irwindalespeedway.com
International Flare
Fresh Off Canadian Tire Series Title, Ranger Heads To The Toyota All-Star Showdown
Andrew Ranger is a special talent behind the wheel of a racecar – any racecar. And he heads to Irwindale this weekend looking to showcase that talent which earned him the 2007 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Sirius Satellite Radio championship.
He came into the 2007 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series season with just one stock car race under his belt, but that wasn't enough to deter the talented 20 year-old from Roxton Pond, Quebec. He made the move to NASCAR last winter from the ranks of the CHAMP Car World Series in which he finished 10th in points for both the 2005 and 2006 seasons. In 2005, at just 18 years of age, he became the youngest driver in series history to notch a podium finish.
That's ancient history, though, for Ranger. His move to the heavier cars of NASCAR has been seamless. He picked up his first NASCAR win in the season's second race of the year – his third start in a stock car. En route to his championship, he posted seven top-five and 10 top-10 finishes throughout the 12-race schedule.
The NASCAR Grand National Division cars that will be used in the NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown are different from those used in the Canadian Tire Series, but Ranger does not foresee any difficulty in adjusting.
He will be driving a car owned by fellow Canadian Dick Midgley, owner of Midgley Motorsports of Victoria, B.C.
"Andrew is NASCAR's Canadian national champion and with our base of operations in Canada, it seemed like a natural fit," said Midgley.
Travis Bennett drove a Midgley car to a fourth-place finish in a NASCAR Grand National Division, West Series event at Evergreen Speedway in Monroe, Wash., this season.
"The cars are just a little heavier and have a few more horsepower," said Ranger. "I really don't think it will be that hard to get used to."
On the track by himself, the adjustment may be easy, but he'll have to do it with other drivers on the speedy 1/2-mile oval, most of which have plenty of experience in their equipment, as well as at Irwindale Speedway itself.
"That was the case all season long in the Canadian Tire Series," Ranger said. "I've heard nothing but great things about the track. This is a great chance to compete against top drivers and an opportunity to showcase your talent in front of a people of influence in NASCAR."
Former NASCAR Mexico Champion Lopez Is Making His Move
Former NASCAR Mexico Series champion Rogelio Lopez heads to Irwindale following his first full season in the NASCAR Busch East Series, where he has become a force to be reckoned with.
Lopez, 27, of Aquascalientes, Mexico scored his first career NASCAR Busch East Series victory at the fabled Music City Motorplex fairgrounds oval in Nashville, Tenn., midway through the season. As if punctuating his 2007 campaign, Lopez won his first career Budweiser Pole Award at New Hampshire International Speedway in September, and converted the start to a third-place finish. He finished the season seventh in series points with a record of five top-5s and six top-10s in 13 starts.
Lopez has the whole package needed for success, and he's proven he's for real. He's also a bonifide star entering the NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown at Irwindale (Calif.) Speedway Friday and Saturday, Oct. 19 and 20. By virtue of his Music City win, Lopez also won a guaranteed starting position in the 250-lap all star race.
"We're looking forward to the Toyota Showdown and we're in pretty good shape," Lopez said. "We have a good car. To win that race would be very important to me and for my sponsors and the team. It would be nice to end the season like that. We tested the car at Caraway Speedway (in Asheboro, N.C.) and I think we have a pretty good set-up. We've been strong on short tracks like Music City, and on big tracks like New Hampshire, so we're looking forward to going to California.
"Our focus will be on running for the NASCAR Busch East Series championship next year. I think we have everything we need to do that."
Lopez won the 2006 NASCAR Mexico Series championship. In 2007, he joined up with NASCAR Busch East Series team owner Dave Davis, crew chief Freddy Skaff, and promptly became a contender in the No. 03 Telmex/Lucas Oil Chevrolet. Lopez also has a place in NASCAR history as the first driver from Mexico to compete in a NASCAR Touring event with the series in 2005.
Like most of the tracks the NASCAR Busch East Series visited in 2007, Lopez has never laid eyes on Irwindale Speedway.
"I've never been to Irwindale Speedway, but I've talked to a lot of drivers who've been there," Lopez said. "I think I've gotten some good advice, and I'm going to follow some guys who have been there like Sean Caisse in practice to see what they do."
Lopez also takes a big picture of his racing career, hoping to use NASCAR's ladder system to work his way up.
"Look at guys like Kevin Harvick and Martin Truex. They came up through the NASCAR Grand National Division, and they're winning in the Cup Series now," Lopez said. "Sean Caisse looks like he's the next guy who is moving up. I'm hoping I can do the same. The NASCAR Busch East Series is very competitive. Teams like Joe Gibbs and DEI compete in our series. They are here because they know they can take drivers to the next level from here. It's a great place for teams, drivers and sponsors. I hope we can move up, too. We want to prove ourselves next year. We'll be working really, really hard to do that."
Showdown stats
All-Star experience: Eight drivers have competed in all four previous Toyota All-Star Showdown events. Two of those drivers – Mike Duncan and Matt Kobyluck – have already secured a spot in this year's event by virtue of winning a Grand National Division race this season. In addition to Duncan and Kobyluck, others to compete in all four previous events were Bryan Chew, Scott Gaylord, Mike Johnson, Joey McCarthy, Mike Olsen and Jack Sellers.
Four races, four winners: None of the first four winners in Toyota All-Star Showdown competition have been able to repeat. The four post-season events featured four different winners – Austin Cameron (2003), Mike Johnson (2004), David Gilliland (2005) and Matt Kobyluck (2006).
Finishing up front: Matt Kobyluck has the most top-five finishes in Showdown competition, with three. He is tied with Brian Hoar and Joey McCarthy for the most top-10 finishes, with three each.
Best average finish: Matt Kobyluck has the best average finish of 4.25, among drivers with three or more starts in Toyota All-Star Showdown competitition. His win last year and runner-up finishes in 2004 and 2005, followed a 12th-place finish in the inaugural event in 2003.
Leading the way: David Gilliland has led the most laps in Toyota All-Star Showdown competition. The Riverside, Calif., competitor – who since graduated to the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series – led a total of 133 laps, 91 circuits in 2004 and 42 in 2005.
Race distance: The race distance for the NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown has varied. The inaugural event in 2003 was 125 laps. The race distance for events from 2004 to 2006 were 150 laps. This year's event is slated for 250 laps.
Last to lock in: Eric Holmes was the last driver to lock in a spot to this year's event by winning a Grand National West Series race, taking the victory in the season finale. Holmes won the Elite portion of the Showdown in 2004.
Home Field Advantage: Track Champ Michels Ready
To Take On All Challengers In Super Late Model 150
The only thing left for Rip Michels to accomplish in 2007 is to win Friday's NASCAR TOYOTA All-Star Showdown King Taco 150 NASCAR Whelen All-American Super Late Model race at Irwindale Speedway. The 42-year-old resident of San Fernando, Calif., has enjoyed a dominant year at his "home track", Irwindale Speedway, winning his fourth track division title, and the ACDelco Super Late Model series crown on Sept. 22.
"Winning any championship is awesome," Michels said. "Winning the 2006 NASCAR Southwest Tour title was sweet, but winning this year's Super Late Model title is cool and hopefully winning Friday's Showdown race will cap a special year. But the competition in Friday night's race will be tough!"
Michels won 11 races, and his 55 career victories on the half-mile variable banked track are more than any other Irwindale Speedway competitor.
At one point in time, Michels was considering not racing at Irwindale Speedway this year.
He had spent the past three years racing on the NASCAR Elite Division, Southwest Series winning last year's title and his only win which was the race at Irwindale. NASCAR realigned its short-track racing program, eliminating the Southwest Series from its development ranks.
Michels spent the off-season looking for another team and right after Christmas of last year, Michels agreed to a deal with long-time Irwindale Speedway competitor Lee Ladd and team owner Bob Bruncati to race one of Bruncati's Super Late Model cars at the Speedway.
"I've had a great racing career and have accomplished more than I ever dreamed I could," said Michels. "The accomplishments I have reached are because of great people like the late great Jim Kent, who taught me how to build my first street stock, to Lee Ladd, Rick Smith and, of course, my team owners Bob and Maureen Bruncati."
"It takes the whole package to win and without the support of these people, including my crew members and a supporting wife, you will not be successful."
D.W. Will Oversee Festivities As Showdown Grand Marshal
Eighteen years after finally reaching Victory lane in the Daytona 500, three-time NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series champion Darrell Waltrip will serve as the Grand Marshal for the race that has become the 'Daytona 500' of the NASCAR Developmental Series: the 2007 NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown.
Waltrip – who had championships in 1981, 1982 and 1985, along with 84 wins in NASCAR's premier series – will serve as the dignitary for what has become the pinnacle of short-track racing. Known for its tight three-wide or sometimes four-wide competition and dramatic finishes.
After his racing career, in which he had more than 800 career starts in NASCAR's Cup Series between 1972 and 1999, Waltrip became a television commentator. The Owensboro, Ky., native serves as an analyst on FOX's NASCAR broadcasts.
Showdown coverage on TV
SPEED's coverage of the NASCAR Grand National Division this season culminates with live coverage of the NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown for a fifth consecutive year.
The cable network televised 22 Grand National events this season as part of its Racing Across America series.
About SPEED
SPEED is the nation's first and foremost cable television network dedicated to motor sports and the passion for everything automotive. From racing to restoration, motorcycles to movies, SPEED delivers quality programming from the track to the garage. Now available in more than 74 million homes in North America, SPEED is among the fastest-growing sports cable networks in the country.
TICKET INFORMATION
Tickets for the 2007 NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown, which will take place Oct. 19-20 at Irwindale (Calif.) Speedway, are available for purchase at the Irwindale Speedway ticket office, by calling (626) 358-1100 and online at http://www.irwindalespeedway.com/.
From NASCAR
The Race: NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown
The Place: Irwindale (Calif.) Speedway
The Event: 150-lap Super Late Model race and 250-lap Grand National Division race
The Date: Friday, Oct. 19 and Saturday, Oct. 20
TV: SPEED (live)
Track Layout: half-mile oval
Race Purse: $467,980
Schedule:
Friday: Super Late Model Practice, 10-10:45 a.m. Grand National Practice, 10:55-11:55 a.m. Super Late Model Practice, 12-12:45 p.m. Grand National Practice, 12:50-1:50 p.m. Super Late Model Time Trials, 2:30 p.m. Grand National Time Trials, 5 p.m. Super Late Model Race, 6:15 p.m. Grand National Open Qualifier (50 laps), 7:30 p.m.
Saturday: Grand National Division Race, 7:30 p.m.
Track Contact:
Kevin O'Brien (626) 358-1100; kobrien@irwindalespeedway.com
International Flare
Fresh Off Canadian Tire Series Title, Ranger Heads To The Toyota All-Star Showdown
Andrew Ranger is a special talent behind the wheel of a racecar – any racecar. And he heads to Irwindale this weekend looking to showcase that talent which earned him the 2007 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Sirius Satellite Radio championship.
He came into the 2007 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series season with just one stock car race under his belt, but that wasn't enough to deter the talented 20 year-old from Roxton Pond, Quebec. He made the move to NASCAR last winter from the ranks of the CHAMP Car World Series in which he finished 10th in points for both the 2005 and 2006 seasons. In 2005, at just 18 years of age, he became the youngest driver in series history to notch a podium finish.
That's ancient history, though, for Ranger. His move to the heavier cars of NASCAR has been seamless. He picked up his first NASCAR win in the season's second race of the year – his third start in a stock car. En route to his championship, he posted seven top-five and 10 top-10 finishes throughout the 12-race schedule.
The NASCAR Grand National Division cars that will be used in the NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown are different from those used in the Canadian Tire Series, but Ranger does not foresee any difficulty in adjusting.
He will be driving a car owned by fellow Canadian Dick Midgley, owner of Midgley Motorsports of Victoria, B.C.
"Andrew is NASCAR's Canadian national champion and with our base of operations in Canada, it seemed like a natural fit," said Midgley.
Travis Bennett drove a Midgley car to a fourth-place finish in a NASCAR Grand National Division, West Series event at Evergreen Speedway in Monroe, Wash., this season.
"The cars are just a little heavier and have a few more horsepower," said Ranger. "I really don't think it will be that hard to get used to."
On the track by himself, the adjustment may be easy, but he'll have to do it with other drivers on the speedy 1/2-mile oval, most of which have plenty of experience in their equipment, as well as at Irwindale Speedway itself.
"That was the case all season long in the Canadian Tire Series," Ranger said. "I've heard nothing but great things about the track. This is a great chance to compete against top drivers and an opportunity to showcase your talent in front of a people of influence in NASCAR."
Former NASCAR Mexico Champion Lopez Is Making His Move
Former NASCAR Mexico Series champion Rogelio Lopez heads to Irwindale following his first full season in the NASCAR Busch East Series, where he has become a force to be reckoned with.
Lopez, 27, of Aquascalientes, Mexico scored his first career NASCAR Busch East Series victory at the fabled Music City Motorplex fairgrounds oval in Nashville, Tenn., midway through the season. As if punctuating his 2007 campaign, Lopez won his first career Budweiser Pole Award at New Hampshire International Speedway in September, and converted the start to a third-place finish. He finished the season seventh in series points with a record of five top-5s and six top-10s in 13 starts.
Lopez has the whole package needed for success, and he's proven he's for real. He's also a bonifide star entering the NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown at Irwindale (Calif.) Speedway Friday and Saturday, Oct. 19 and 20. By virtue of his Music City win, Lopez also won a guaranteed starting position in the 250-lap all star race.
"We're looking forward to the Toyota Showdown and we're in pretty good shape," Lopez said. "We have a good car. To win that race would be very important to me and for my sponsors and the team. It would be nice to end the season like that. We tested the car at Caraway Speedway (in Asheboro, N.C.) and I think we have a pretty good set-up. We've been strong on short tracks like Music City, and on big tracks like New Hampshire, so we're looking forward to going to California.
"Our focus will be on running for the NASCAR Busch East Series championship next year. I think we have everything we need to do that."
Lopez won the 2006 NASCAR Mexico Series championship. In 2007, he joined up with NASCAR Busch East Series team owner Dave Davis, crew chief Freddy Skaff, and promptly became a contender in the No. 03 Telmex/Lucas Oil Chevrolet. Lopez also has a place in NASCAR history as the first driver from Mexico to compete in a NASCAR Touring event with the series in 2005.
Like most of the tracks the NASCAR Busch East Series visited in 2007, Lopez has never laid eyes on Irwindale Speedway.
"I've never been to Irwindale Speedway, but I've talked to a lot of drivers who've been there," Lopez said. "I think I've gotten some good advice, and I'm going to follow some guys who have been there like Sean Caisse in practice to see what they do."
Lopez also takes a big picture of his racing career, hoping to use NASCAR's ladder system to work his way up.
"Look at guys like Kevin Harvick and Martin Truex. They came up through the NASCAR Grand National Division, and they're winning in the Cup Series now," Lopez said. "Sean Caisse looks like he's the next guy who is moving up. I'm hoping I can do the same. The NASCAR Busch East Series is very competitive. Teams like Joe Gibbs and DEI compete in our series. They are here because they know they can take drivers to the next level from here. It's a great place for teams, drivers and sponsors. I hope we can move up, too. We want to prove ourselves next year. We'll be working really, really hard to do that."
Showdown stats
All-Star experience: Eight drivers have competed in all four previous Toyota All-Star Showdown events. Two of those drivers – Mike Duncan and Matt Kobyluck – have already secured a spot in this year's event by virtue of winning a Grand National Division race this season. In addition to Duncan and Kobyluck, others to compete in all four previous events were Bryan Chew, Scott Gaylord, Mike Johnson, Joey McCarthy, Mike Olsen and Jack Sellers.
Four races, four winners: None of the first four winners in Toyota All-Star Showdown competition have been able to repeat. The four post-season events featured four different winners – Austin Cameron (2003), Mike Johnson (2004), David Gilliland (2005) and Matt Kobyluck (2006).
Finishing up front: Matt Kobyluck has the most top-five finishes in Showdown competition, with three. He is tied with Brian Hoar and Joey McCarthy for the most top-10 finishes, with three each.
Best average finish: Matt Kobyluck has the best average finish of 4.25, among drivers with three or more starts in Toyota All-Star Showdown competitition. His win last year and runner-up finishes in 2004 and 2005, followed a 12th-place finish in the inaugural event in 2003.
Leading the way: David Gilliland has led the most laps in Toyota All-Star Showdown competition. The Riverside, Calif., competitor – who since graduated to the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series – led a total of 133 laps, 91 circuits in 2004 and 42 in 2005.
Race distance: The race distance for the NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown has varied. The inaugural event in 2003 was 125 laps. The race distance for events from 2004 to 2006 were 150 laps. This year's event is slated for 250 laps.
Last to lock in: Eric Holmes was the last driver to lock in a spot to this year's event by winning a Grand National West Series race, taking the victory in the season finale. Holmes won the Elite portion of the Showdown in 2004.
Home Field Advantage: Track Champ Michels Ready
To Take On All Challengers In Super Late Model 150
The only thing left for Rip Michels to accomplish in 2007 is to win Friday's NASCAR TOYOTA All-Star Showdown King Taco 150 NASCAR Whelen All-American Super Late Model race at Irwindale Speedway. The 42-year-old resident of San Fernando, Calif., has enjoyed a dominant year at his "home track", Irwindale Speedway, winning his fourth track division title, and the ACDelco Super Late Model series crown on Sept. 22.
"Winning any championship is awesome," Michels said. "Winning the 2006 NASCAR Southwest Tour title was sweet, but winning this year's Super Late Model title is cool and hopefully winning Friday's Showdown race will cap a special year. But the competition in Friday night's race will be tough!"
Michels won 11 races, and his 55 career victories on the half-mile variable banked track are more than any other Irwindale Speedway competitor.
At one point in time, Michels was considering not racing at Irwindale Speedway this year.
He had spent the past three years racing on the NASCAR Elite Division, Southwest Series winning last year's title and his only win which was the race at Irwindale. NASCAR realigned its short-track racing program, eliminating the Southwest Series from its development ranks.
Michels spent the off-season looking for another team and right after Christmas of last year, Michels agreed to a deal with long-time Irwindale Speedway competitor Lee Ladd and team owner Bob Bruncati to race one of Bruncati's Super Late Model cars at the Speedway.
"I've had a great racing career and have accomplished more than I ever dreamed I could," said Michels. "The accomplishments I have reached are because of great people like the late great Jim Kent, who taught me how to build my first street stock, to Lee Ladd, Rick Smith and, of course, my team owners Bob and Maureen Bruncati."
"It takes the whole package to win and without the support of these people, including my crew members and a supporting wife, you will not be successful."
D.W. Will Oversee Festivities As Showdown Grand Marshal
Eighteen years after finally reaching Victory lane in the Daytona 500, three-time NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series champion Darrell Waltrip will serve as the Grand Marshal for the race that has become the 'Daytona 500' of the NASCAR Developmental Series: the 2007 NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown.
Waltrip – who had championships in 1981, 1982 and 1985, along with 84 wins in NASCAR's premier series – will serve as the dignitary for what has become the pinnacle of short-track racing. Known for its tight three-wide or sometimes four-wide competition and dramatic finishes.
After his racing career, in which he had more than 800 career starts in NASCAR's Cup Series between 1972 and 1999, Waltrip became a television commentator. The Owensboro, Ky., native serves as an analyst on FOX's NASCAR broadcasts.
Showdown coverage on TV
SPEED's coverage of the NASCAR Grand National Division this season culminates with live coverage of the NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown for a fifth consecutive year.
The cable network televised 22 Grand National events this season as part of its Racing Across America series.
About SPEED
SPEED is the nation's first and foremost cable television network dedicated to motor sports and the passion for everything automotive. From racing to restoration, motorcycles to movies, SPEED delivers quality programming from the track to the garage. Now available in more than 74 million homes in North America, SPEED is among the fastest-growing sports cable networks in the country.
TICKET INFORMATION
Tickets for the 2007 NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown, which will take place Oct. 19-20 at Irwindale (Calif.) Speedway, are available for purchase at the Irwindale Speedway ticket office, by calling (626) 358-1100 and online at http://www.irwindalespeedway.com/.
From NASCAR
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Doug Polen To Ride For Touring Sport Ducati In 8 Hours At Daytona
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- Could there be an encore of the magical 1992 Daytona 200 By Honda photo finish between Scott Russell and Doug Polen in the upcoming SunTrust MOTO-ST Series 8 Hours At Daytona Finale on Saturday, Oct. 20?
Motorcycle fans can only hope.
Polen is adding his name to the list of motorcycle legends, which includes five-time Daytona 200 By Honda winner Russell, which will be competing in the season-ending endurance race. Polen, a four-time World champion, will team with Frank Shockley and Pete Friedland on the No. 77 Touring Sport Ducati SS1000 in the GST class.
Polen, who won two straight World Superbike Championships in 1991 and 1992 and earned Ducati's first AMA Championship in 1993, has six top-five runs in the Daytona 200 By Honda and two runner-up finishes, including 1992 when he finished second to Russell by a margin of .182 seconds.
Touring Sport Ducati and Shockley are in a tight points battle for the GST season championship. Touring Sport Ducati is second in class, just seven points behind Richie Morris Racing and Shockley is 10 points out of the lead in rider points behind Shawn Higbee.
Shockley needed a veteran rider for this weekend's race. He immediately thought of Doug Polen, who still has a relationship with Ducati North America. After a phone call to Ducati North America, Shockley had secured the former World Superbike Champion as a teammate for the 8 Hours At Daytona.
"I was looking for a ringer, somebody who could help propel us to the win, and I got to thinking about Doug," Shockley said. "It'll be tremendous. His reputation is world wide. I don't know anybody that I would have rather had. He's a pretty cool guy. I've followed his career myself. I'm just excited. I can't believe he said yes."
The 8 Hours At Daytona will boast an international field of top riders from the United States, Europe, South America and Canada in three classes – The Buell Motorcycle Company SuperSport class (SST) which includes motorcycles producing between 90-118 horsepower, the BMW GrandSport Twins class (GST) covering motorcycles producing 75-90 horsepower and Sport Twins (ST) for machines under 75 horsepower.
Included in the $100,000 purse is $7,500 to the overall winner of the 8 Hours At Daytona and $7,500 to the SuperSport Twins class winner, $5,000 to the GrandSport Twins winner and $3,500 to the Sport Twins Bonus.
The SunTrust MOTO-ST Series 8 Hours At Daytona finale is scheduled to go green at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 20 and is part of Fall Cycle Scene. Tickets are available online at www.racetickets.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.
-30-
From Grand-Am / MOTO-ST
Motorcycle fans can only hope.
Polen is adding his name to the list of motorcycle legends, which includes five-time Daytona 200 By Honda winner Russell, which will be competing in the season-ending endurance race. Polen, a four-time World champion, will team with Frank Shockley and Pete Friedland on the No. 77 Touring Sport Ducati SS1000 in the GST class.
Polen, who won two straight World Superbike Championships in 1991 and 1992 and earned Ducati's first AMA Championship in 1993, has six top-five runs in the Daytona 200 By Honda and two runner-up finishes, including 1992 when he finished second to Russell by a margin of .182 seconds.
Touring Sport Ducati and Shockley are in a tight points battle for the GST season championship. Touring Sport Ducati is second in class, just seven points behind Richie Morris Racing and Shockley is 10 points out of the lead in rider points behind Shawn Higbee.
Shockley needed a veteran rider for this weekend's race. He immediately thought of Doug Polen, who still has a relationship with Ducati North America. After a phone call to Ducati North America, Shockley had secured the former World Superbike Champion as a teammate for the 8 Hours At Daytona.
"I was looking for a ringer, somebody who could help propel us to the win, and I got to thinking about Doug," Shockley said. "It'll be tremendous. His reputation is world wide. I don't know anybody that I would have rather had. He's a pretty cool guy. I've followed his career myself. I'm just excited. I can't believe he said yes."
The 8 Hours At Daytona will boast an international field of top riders from the United States, Europe, South America and Canada in three classes – The Buell Motorcycle Company SuperSport class (SST) which includes motorcycles producing between 90-118 horsepower, the BMW GrandSport Twins class (GST) covering motorcycles producing 75-90 horsepower and Sport Twins (ST) for machines under 75 horsepower.
Included in the $100,000 purse is $7,500 to the overall winner of the 8 Hours At Daytona and $7,500 to the SuperSport Twins class winner, $5,000 to the GrandSport Twins winner and $3,500 to the Sport Twins Bonus.
The SunTrust MOTO-ST Series 8 Hours At Daytona finale is scheduled to go green at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 20 and is part of Fall Cycle Scene. Tickets are available online at www.racetickets.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.
-30-
From Grand-Am / MOTO-ST
INDY PRO SERIES: Brian Stewart helps Canadian golfer qualify
Brian Stewart helps Canadian golfer qualify for tourney: Indy Pro Series team owner Brian Stewart spends nearly as much time on golf courses as he does at racetracks.
Earlier this week, Brian Stewart took time away from chasing his own golf balls to caddy for fellow Canadian Dan Payton in Chattanooga, Tenn., as the young golfer qualified for this weekend�s Nationwide Tour event at Black Creek Club.
�Dan is a good kid,� Stewart said of Payton, who regularly golfs on the Great Lakes Tour, Canada�s developmental golf circuit. �He works at the club where I belong, and we had a chance to talk and play a couple of times, so I decided to back his efforts.�
Payton, who ranks third on the Great Lakes Tour, will compete for part of a $475,000 purse. Stewart, who caddied �in the blazing hot sun� Monday and Tuesday, departed for Iowa Speedway where the team will conduct some off-season testing.
From IndyCar
Earlier this week, Brian Stewart took time away from chasing his own golf balls to caddy for fellow Canadian Dan Payton in Chattanooga, Tenn., as the young golfer qualified for this weekend�s Nationwide Tour event at Black Creek Club.
�Dan is a good kid,� Stewart said of Payton, who regularly golfs on the Great Lakes Tour, Canada�s developmental golf circuit. �He works at the club where I belong, and we had a chance to talk and play a couple of times, so I decided to back his efforts.�
Payton, who ranks third on the Great Lakes Tour, will compete for part of a $475,000 purse. Stewart, who caddied �in the blazing hot sun� Monday and Tuesday, departed for Iowa Speedway where the team will conduct some off-season testing.
From IndyCar
Champ Car: RuSport "closing down"
TSN has a story quoting RuSport Champ Car driver Justing Wilson saying that the team won't be back in the series in 2008.
"The future of the RuSport team in Champ Car is very much in doubt after reports surfaced from Australia that the team would fold at the end of this season.
"They (RuSport) have just announced they are closing down," driver Justin Wilson tells goldcoast.com.au. "They have just told me and the crew. They don't want to carry on. This weekend I will just have to see what my options are for next year."
"They (RuSport) have just announced they are closing down," driver Justin Wilson tells goldcoast.com.au. "They have just told me and the crew. They don't want to carry on. This weekend I will just have to see what my options are for next year."
In the wake of high-profile driver defections and event cancellations, Champ Car is starting to look like Rocky Balboa... taking a beating but still somehow standing. How long can it last?
Story continued at the link above.
UPDATE: As requested (see the comments). The names on the limbs could be updated, but the sentiment still fits. Originally released in March 2007.
SunTrust MOTO-ST Series: News & Notes Update
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - Heading into this weekend�s 8 Hours At Daytona SunTrust MOTO-ST Series race at Daytona International Speedway, the sixth and final round of the 2007 schedule, here are some pre-race notes, story angles and interesting trends to follow:
DRESSED TO THE NINES: Pair-A-Nines Racing is a Hall of Fame effort in every sense of the word. The team is managed by Motorcycle Hall of Famer Gary Nixon, with the full season ST class effort piloted by Hall of Famers Jay Springsteen and Jimmy Filice. Springsteen and Filice currently hold a 29-point advantage in the ST (Sport Twins) class, earning wins on the road courses at Homestead-Miami Speedway, Iowa Speedway and the season-opener at Daytona last March.
Before his team manager days, Nixon won the 1967 and 1968 Grand National Championships, comprised of road racing and flat track events, but his specialty was the pavement. Springsteen captured three Grand National Championships and is known as one of the greatest flat trackers of all time, capturing 43 Grand National dirt track victories in a career that spanned over 30 years. Nixon and �Springer� both wore the number nine plate throughout their careers.
Filice was one of the fastest American riders ever to ride a 250cc motorcycle, and in 1988 became one of only four Americans to win a World Championship 250 Grand Prix race.
Springsteen and Filice will be joined on the No. 9 Pair-A-Nines Kawasaki EX650 for the 8 Hours At Daytona by Filice�s son, Justin.
MR. DAYTONA COMES HOME: Scott Russell, nicknamed �Mr. Daytona� for his five wins in the Daytona 200, will make his motorcycle racing return this weekend at the 8 Hours At Daytona. The Conyers, Ga. native hasn�t raced professionally since suffering injuries in a 2001 accident.
Not only fast at Daytona, Russell captured the 1992 AMA Superbike Championship and the 1993 World Superbike Championship. Russell also captured a win at the famous Suzuka Eight Hours endurance race.
Mr. Daytona will ride the No. 92 Pair-A-Nines Kawasaki 650 VERSYS this weekend with other riders to be named.
SBK AT DIS: Two-time Superbike World Champion Doug Polen makes his return to racing at this weekend�s 8 Hours At Daytona, riding the No. 77 Touring Sport Ducati SS1000 with Pete Friedland and Frank Shockley. Polen was World Champion in 1991 and 1992 before returning home to capture the Superbike National Championship in 1993.
RUSSELL VS. POLEN, PART 2: The 8 Hours At Daytona SunTrust MOTO-ST race could shape up as a rematch of one of the most exciting Daytona 200 races of all time. Both Russell and Polen are competing in the GST (Grand Sport Twins) class this weekend.
In 1992, Russell scored his first of five wins in a photo finish at the famed race by making a slingshot move on his Kawasaki past Polen�s Ducati to the checkered flag at the �World Center of Racing.�
CHAMPIONSHIP BUSTERS: Two riders making their SunTrust MOTO-ST debut this weekend have an excellent shot of leaving with a win. Colombian Martin Cardenas and Venezuelan Robertino Pietri will ride the No. 3 Roadracingworld.com Suzuki SV1000S in the SST class, after successful summers of road racing.
The 26-year-old Cardenas established himself as one of the top motorcycle riders in the United States this summer after beginning the season riding an essentially stock motorcycle to a 12th place finish at Daytona in the Superbike class. Cardenas capitalized on a mid-season opportunity to earn a new ride and record four podium finishes late in the summer, competing for wins on a number of occasions. In 2005, Cardenas became the first Colombian to ever compete in a World Championship motorcycle race, recording two top-10s in two years in the highly competitive 250cc class.
Second-generation racer Pietri is the son of former Superbike racer Roberto Pietri and recorded a number of top-10 finishes in the 1000cc class this summer.
Cardenas and Pietri should have the equipment to compete for a win, as teammate Chris Ulrich finished second at the season-opener at Daytona and recorded a win at Homestead-Miami Speedway.
MANY HAPPY RETURNS: SunTrust MOTO-ST Series riders Shawn Higbee and Brian Kcraget will return to action this weekend after an exciting finish to the last round at Iowa Speedway in July.
Both riders were involved in a fiery accident in Turn 2 late in that race and have made fast and full recoveries to return to action this weekend at Daytona. Higbee leads the GST class points battle by two points over Brad Phillips.
PROMOTIONAL PUSH: The off-the-track activities for the SunTrust MOTO-ST Series and the 8 Hours At Daytona kick into high gear this week with spectacular events at two local hot spots during the local scene�s fall bike week.
Daytona Beach�s famed Ocean Deck hosts Wednesday night�s festivities, including SunTrust MOTO-ST competitors from Richie Morris Racing - among others - on hand to give away tickets and merchandise from 8 to 11 p.m.
On Thursday, the festivities will head to Hooligan�s at Destination Daytona from 5 to 11 p.m. Riders from Team Rightsforbikers.com and Richie Morris Racing will give away gifts and prizes to those in attendance.
From Grand-Am / MOTO-ST
DRESSED TO THE NINES: Pair-A-Nines Racing is a Hall of Fame effort in every sense of the word. The team is managed by Motorcycle Hall of Famer Gary Nixon, with the full season ST class effort piloted by Hall of Famers Jay Springsteen and Jimmy Filice. Springsteen and Filice currently hold a 29-point advantage in the ST (Sport Twins) class, earning wins on the road courses at Homestead-Miami Speedway, Iowa Speedway and the season-opener at Daytona last March.
Before his team manager days, Nixon won the 1967 and 1968 Grand National Championships, comprised of road racing and flat track events, but his specialty was the pavement. Springsteen captured three Grand National Championships and is known as one of the greatest flat trackers of all time, capturing 43 Grand National dirt track victories in a career that spanned over 30 years. Nixon and �Springer� both wore the number nine plate throughout their careers.
Filice was one of the fastest American riders ever to ride a 250cc motorcycle, and in 1988 became one of only four Americans to win a World Championship 250 Grand Prix race.
Springsteen and Filice will be joined on the No. 9 Pair-A-Nines Kawasaki EX650 for the 8 Hours At Daytona by Filice�s son, Justin.
MR. DAYTONA COMES HOME: Scott Russell, nicknamed �Mr. Daytona� for his five wins in the Daytona 200, will make his motorcycle racing return this weekend at the 8 Hours At Daytona. The Conyers, Ga. native hasn�t raced professionally since suffering injuries in a 2001 accident.
Not only fast at Daytona, Russell captured the 1992 AMA Superbike Championship and the 1993 World Superbike Championship. Russell also captured a win at the famous Suzuka Eight Hours endurance race.
Mr. Daytona will ride the No. 92 Pair-A-Nines Kawasaki 650 VERSYS this weekend with other riders to be named.
SBK AT DIS: Two-time Superbike World Champion Doug Polen makes his return to racing at this weekend�s 8 Hours At Daytona, riding the No. 77 Touring Sport Ducati SS1000 with Pete Friedland and Frank Shockley. Polen was World Champion in 1991 and 1992 before returning home to capture the Superbike National Championship in 1993.
RUSSELL VS. POLEN, PART 2: The 8 Hours At Daytona SunTrust MOTO-ST race could shape up as a rematch of one of the most exciting Daytona 200 races of all time. Both Russell and Polen are competing in the GST (Grand Sport Twins) class this weekend.
In 1992, Russell scored his first of five wins in a photo finish at the famed race by making a slingshot move on his Kawasaki past Polen�s Ducati to the checkered flag at the �World Center of Racing.�
CHAMPIONSHIP BUSTERS: Two riders making their SunTrust MOTO-ST debut this weekend have an excellent shot of leaving with a win. Colombian Martin Cardenas and Venezuelan Robertino Pietri will ride the No. 3 Roadracingworld.com Suzuki SV1000S in the SST class, after successful summers of road racing.
The 26-year-old Cardenas established himself as one of the top motorcycle riders in the United States this summer after beginning the season riding an essentially stock motorcycle to a 12th place finish at Daytona in the Superbike class. Cardenas capitalized on a mid-season opportunity to earn a new ride and record four podium finishes late in the summer, competing for wins on a number of occasions. In 2005, Cardenas became the first Colombian to ever compete in a World Championship motorcycle race, recording two top-10s in two years in the highly competitive 250cc class.
Second-generation racer Pietri is the son of former Superbike racer Roberto Pietri and recorded a number of top-10 finishes in the 1000cc class this summer.
Cardenas and Pietri should have the equipment to compete for a win, as teammate Chris Ulrich finished second at the season-opener at Daytona and recorded a win at Homestead-Miami Speedway.
MANY HAPPY RETURNS: SunTrust MOTO-ST Series riders Shawn Higbee and Brian Kcraget will return to action this weekend after an exciting finish to the last round at Iowa Speedway in July.
Both riders were involved in a fiery accident in Turn 2 late in that race and have made fast and full recoveries to return to action this weekend at Daytona. Higbee leads the GST class points battle by two points over Brad Phillips.
PROMOTIONAL PUSH: The off-the-track activities for the SunTrust MOTO-ST Series and the 8 Hours At Daytona kick into high gear this week with spectacular events at two local hot spots during the local scene�s fall bike week.
Daytona Beach�s famed Ocean Deck hosts Wednesday night�s festivities, including SunTrust MOTO-ST competitors from Richie Morris Racing - among others - on hand to give away tickets and merchandise from 8 to 11 p.m.
On Thursday, the festivities will head to Hooligan�s at Destination Daytona from 5 to 11 p.m. Riders from Team Rightsforbikers.com and Richie Morris Racing will give away gifts and prizes to those in attendance.
From Grand-Am / MOTO-ST
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
G&M story on the Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship
The Oct. 11 Globe & Mail had an extensive story on the Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship. Click here to read it.
DTM Finale in Hockenheim: Spenger points runner-up
DTM, 14th October 2007: 10th round in Hockenheim
Canadian Bruno Spengler Runner-up in the 2007 DTM; Jamie Green Won the Exciting Finale
§ Jamie Green (2007 Salzgitter AMG Mercedes C-Class) won the exciting finale of the 2007 DTM in Hockenheim and achieved his second consecutive victory in the championship after his first win in Barcelona three weeks ago. It was the seventh win for the C-Class in the tenth race of the year and the 141st win for Mercedes-Benz in the brand's 300th DTM/ITC race since 1988. After 37 laps, Jamie came home 3.6sec ahead of Timo Scheider (Audi).
§ Bruno Spengler (2007 DaimlerChrysler Bank AMG Mercedes C-Class) came home fourth and ended the season runner-up like last year. The Canadian missed the championship by three points; the new Champion Mattias Ekström has now 50 points, Bruno is second with 47.
§ Bernd Schneider (2007 Genuine Parts AMG Mercedes C-Class) came home fifth, Alexandros Margaritis (2006 stern AMG Mercedes C-Class) was seventh ahead of Paul di Resta (2005 JAWA4U.de AMG Mercedes C-Class).
§ The results of the other C-Class drivers: Daniel la Rosa (2006 TrekStor AMG Mercedes C-Class) tenth ahead of Mathias Lauda (2006 Trilux AMG Mercedes C-Class); Susie Stoddart (2005 TV Spielfilm AMG Mercedes C-Class) 14th; Mika Häkkinen (2007 AMG Mercedes C-Class) 17th. Gary Paffett (2006 Laureus AMG Mercedes C-Class) retired with a damaged undertray following a spin.
§ A crowd of 152,000 attended the 2007 DTM season finale, more than ever before at a DTM event.
The start: Jamie Green started fourth on the grid whilst Bruno Spengler had qualified sixth. At the start, Green dropped to fifth; however, he improved to third place at the hairpin. Here Gary Paffett spun and retired due to a damaged undertray. The Safety Car was deployed for one lap.
Lap 3: Jamie Green overtook Tom Kristensen at the hairpin and improved to second behind Mattias Ekström. Bruno Spengler was fifth ahead of Bernd Schneider and Alexandros Margaritis.
Lap 6: Bruno Spengler and Mika Häkkinen came in for their respective first pit stops.
Lap 9: Jamie Green passed Mattias Ekström at the hairpin and took the lead. Bernd Schneider was fourth ahead of Paul di Resta.
Lap 15: Following his early pit stop, Bruno Spengler charged through the field. He passed Tom Kristensen on lap 12 and Markus Winkelhock on lap 15.
Lap 17: First pit stop of Bernd Schneider.
Lap 21: The two leaders, Jamie Green and Mattias Ekström pitted. Green maintained first place ahead of Timo Scheider, Mattias Ekström, Bernd Schneider and Bruno Spengler. Ekström and Spengler were within four seconds.
Lap 24: Bernd Schneider came in for his second stop and Bruno Spengler was fourth.
Lap 28: Jamie Green, Alexandros Margaritis and Bruno Spengler made their respective second pit stops. Green resumed in first position, Schneider was now sixth behind Ekström, Spengler followed in seventh place, 2.9sec behind the Swede.
Lap 32: Bruno Spengler overtook Bernd Schneider and was fourth close behind Mattias Ekström with a gap of 1.5sec.
Finish (lap 37): Jamie Green crossed the finish line first, Bruno Spengler came home fourth 0.4sec behind Mattias Ekström. Bernd Schneider ended up fifth.
Jamie Green, 2007 Salzgitter AMG Mercedes C-Class, winner: "I enjoy today's win even more than the first one in Barcelona. It is something really special to win in front such a great crowd with so many of my Mercedes-Benz colleagues. I am very proud. The car was perfect and I didn't make any mistakes this was the key for my success today."
Bruno Spengler, 2007 DaimlerChrysler Bank AMG Mercedes C-Class, fourth: "It is not too bad, to finish runner-up twice in two years; however, I am of course disappointed that I was not able to clinch the title. Our team did a great job and the car ran very well, either with used or with new tyres. Today a better result should have been possible, and then there would have been a better chance in the championship. Congratulations to Mattias Ekström on the title win."
Bernd Schneider, 2007 Genuine Parts AMG Mercedes C-Class, fifth: "The race was OK, although there have been some actions by Mike Rockenfeller and Tom Kristensen which I did not agree with. Third place would have been possible today. But now I want to congratulate Mattias Ekström on the championship."
Alexandros Margaritis, 2006 stern AMG Mercedes C-Class, seventh: "A perfect race. I started very well and improved to seventh. After my early pit stop I was able to finish the race almost without traffic."
Paul di Resta, 2005 JAWA4U.de AMG Mercedes C-Class, eighth: "After my 16th place in qualifying I am quite happy finishing eighth. It's nice to end the season in the points."
Daniel la Rosa, 2006 TrekStor AMG Mercedes C-Class, 10th: "A better result was possible today. On the first lap I spun after somebody had pushed me. Due to my late first pit stop my tyres faded and I was not able to improve."
Mathias Lauda, 2006 Trilux AMG Mercedes C-Class, 11th: "I gave it my all and made my way up from 16th on the grid to 11th at the chequered flag. I might have scored points today, but my tyres were worn in the end and I could not do better."
Susie Stoddart, 2005 TV Spielfilm AMG Mercedes C-Class, 14th: "My team did a great job and my car ran very well. Unfortunately, I was not able to make the best out of it I am disappointed."
Mika Häkkinen, 2007 AMG Mercedes C-Class, 17th: "A difficult race. I gave it my all, but because of my 20th grid position due to my unjustified penalty I had no hopes for a good result. It was just not possible."
Gary Paffett, 2006 Laureus AMG Mercedes C-Class, retired following a spin when he damaged his undertray: "At the hairpin exit I drove over the kerbs and when I came back on the track I slid into a hole next to the tarmac and spun. This damaged my undertray severly and I had to retire."
Norbert Haug, Vice President Mercedes-Benz Motorsport: "Congratulations to Mattias Ekström, Abt-Audi and Audi Sport on their title win a great race won by Jamie Green and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class as well as a turbulent season are behind us. Including Jamie's victory today we won seven out of the year's ten races, in the end Bruno missed the championship win by three points. We showed a strong performance today and I want to thank all team members for how we presented ourselves in the 300th DTM and ITC race of the brand Mercedes-Benz in which we achieved our 141st victory. We provided the spectators at the venue and in front of the TV with exciting sport in front of a record crowd in picture book weather. Thank you to the HWA team headed by Gerhard Ungar and Hans-Jürgen Mattheis as well as to the teams of Ingmar Persson and Peter Mücke. Now we have a deserved break, but will not rest for long …"
Canadian Bruno Spengler Runner-up in the 2007 DTM; Jamie Green Won the Exciting Finale
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The start: Jamie Green started fourth on the grid whilst Bruno Spengler had qualified sixth. At the start, Green dropped to fifth; however, he improved to third place at the hairpin. Here Gary Paffett spun and retired due to a damaged undertray. The Safety Car was deployed for one lap.
Lap 3: Jamie Green overtook Tom Kristensen at the hairpin and improved to second behind Mattias Ekström. Bruno Spengler was fifth ahead of Bernd Schneider and Alexandros Margaritis.
Lap 6: Bruno Spengler and Mika Häkkinen came in for their respective first pit stops.
Lap 9: Jamie Green passed Mattias Ekström at the hairpin and took the lead. Bernd Schneider was fourth ahead of Paul di Resta.
Lap 15: Following his early pit stop, Bruno Spengler charged through the field. He passed Tom Kristensen on lap 12 and Markus Winkelhock on lap 15.
Lap 17: First pit stop of Bernd Schneider.
Lap 21: The two leaders, Jamie Green and Mattias Ekström pitted. Green maintained first place ahead of Timo Scheider, Mattias Ekström, Bernd Schneider and Bruno Spengler. Ekström and Spengler were within four seconds.
Lap 24: Bernd Schneider came in for his second stop and Bruno Spengler was fourth.
Lap 28: Jamie Green, Alexandros Margaritis and Bruno Spengler made their respective second pit stops. Green resumed in first position, Schneider was now sixth behind Ekström, Spengler followed in seventh place, 2.9sec behind the Swede.
Lap 32: Bruno Spengler overtook Bernd Schneider and was fourth close behind Mattias Ekström with a gap of 1.5sec.
Finish (lap 37): Jamie Green crossed the finish line first, Bruno Spengler came home fourth 0.4sec behind Mattias Ekström. Bernd Schneider ended up fifth.
Jamie Green, 2007 Salzgitter AMG Mercedes C-Class, winner: "I enjoy today's win even more than the first one in Barcelona. It is something really special to win in front such a great crowd with so many of my Mercedes-Benz colleagues. I am very proud. The car was perfect and I didn't make any mistakes this was the key for my success today."
Bruno Spengler, 2007 DaimlerChrysler Bank AMG Mercedes C-Class, fourth: "It is not too bad, to finish runner-up twice in two years; however, I am of course disappointed that I was not able to clinch the title. Our team did a great job and the car ran very well, either with used or with new tyres. Today a better result should have been possible, and then there would have been a better chance in the championship. Congratulations to Mattias Ekström on the title win."
Bernd Schneider, 2007 Genuine Parts AMG Mercedes C-Class, fifth: "The race was OK, although there have been some actions by Mike Rockenfeller and Tom Kristensen which I did not agree with. Third place would have been possible today. But now I want to congratulate Mattias Ekström on the championship."
Alexandros Margaritis, 2006 stern AMG Mercedes C-Class, seventh: "A perfect race. I started very well and improved to seventh. After my early pit stop I was able to finish the race almost without traffic."
Paul di Resta, 2005 JAWA4U.de AMG Mercedes C-Class, eighth: "After my 16th place in qualifying I am quite happy finishing eighth. It's nice to end the season in the points."
Daniel la Rosa, 2006 TrekStor AMG Mercedes C-Class, 10th: "A better result was possible today. On the first lap I spun after somebody had pushed me. Due to my late first pit stop my tyres faded and I was not able to improve."
Mathias Lauda, 2006 Trilux AMG Mercedes C-Class, 11th: "I gave it my all and made my way up from 16th on the grid to 11th at the chequered flag. I might have scored points today, but my tyres were worn in the end and I could not do better."
Susie Stoddart, 2005 TV Spielfilm AMG Mercedes C-Class, 14th: "My team did a great job and my car ran very well. Unfortunately, I was not able to make the best out of it I am disappointed."
Mika Häkkinen, 2007 AMG Mercedes C-Class, 17th: "A difficult race. I gave it my all, but because of my 20th grid position due to my unjustified penalty I had no hopes for a good result. It was just not possible."
Gary Paffett, 2006 Laureus AMG Mercedes C-Class, retired following a spin when he damaged his undertray: "At the hairpin exit I drove over the kerbs and when I came back on the track I slid into a hole next to the tarmac and spun. This damaged my undertray severly and I had to retire."
Norbert Haug, Vice President Mercedes-Benz Motorsport: "Congratulations to Mattias Ekström, Abt-Audi and Audi Sport on their title win a great race won by Jamie Green and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class as well as a turbulent season are behind us. Including Jamie's victory today we won seven out of the year's ten races, in the end Bruno missed the championship win by three points. We showed a strong performance today and I want to thank all team members for how we presented ourselves in the 300th DTM and ITC race of the brand Mercedes-Benz in which we achieved our 141st victory. We provided the spectators at the venue and in front of the TV with exciting sport in front of a record crowd in picture book weather. Thank you to the HWA team headed by Gerhard Ungar and Hans-Jürgen Mattheis as well as to the teams of Ingmar Persson and Peter Mücke. Now we have a deserved break, but will not rest for long …"
St. Thomas Dragway: Results and What's Coming
St. Thomas Dragway
Sparta, Ontario // Results - Saturday & Sunday, October 13 & 14, 2007 // Mopar Fun Day (Saturday)
ET 1
1 - Dave Wheeler, Iona - 71 Road Runner 383 - 12.603 (12.62)(R.T.-.044) at 96.98
2 - John Gujban, Windsor - 74 Dart 360 - 12.559 (12.58)(R.T.-.088) at 107.42
ET 2
1 - David Tripney, Windsor - 70 Duster 318 - 14,710 (14.65)(R.T.-.060) at 83.49
2 - Kevin Ward, Cottam - 07 Dakota V6 - 17.695 (17.68)(R.T.-.247) at 77.57
Pratt & Whitney Day (Sunday)
1 - Dave Judson, Toronto - 71 Camaro 412 - 13.510 (13.48)(R.T.-.189) at 104.38
2 - Rick Kostka, Bolton - 00 Corvette 350 - 13.663 (13.55)(R.T.-.125) at 105.15
WHAT'S COMING!! - St. Thomas Dragway
Friday, October 19 - Performance Unlimited Street Legal Racing - 6 -10 // $15/car & driver $5/crew or spectator
Saturday, October 20 - Ontario Pontiac Club Day + Test & Tune // Gates open - 10 Time Trials - 11 Eliminations - 2 // $30/test & tune & Pontiacs $10/crew or spectator
Saturday, October 20 - Run What Ya Brung - CANCELLED
Sunday, October 21 - Test & Tune Gates open - 12 Time Trials - 1 - 5 // $30/test & tune $10/crew or spectator
From Dave Mathers / St. Thomas Dragway
Sparta, Ontario // Results - Saturday & Sunday, October 13 & 14, 2007 // Mopar Fun Day (Saturday)
ET 1
1 - Dave Wheeler, Iona - 71 Road Runner 383 - 12.603 (12.62)(R.T.-.044) at 96.98
2 - John Gujban, Windsor - 74 Dart 360 - 12.559 (12.58)(R.T.-.088) at 107.42
ET 2
1 - David Tripney, Windsor - 70 Duster 318 - 14,710 (14.65)(R.T.-.060) at 83.49
2 - Kevin Ward, Cottam - 07 Dakota V6 - 17.695 (17.68)(R.T.-.247) at 77.57
Pratt & Whitney Day (Sunday)
1 - Dave Judson, Toronto - 71 Camaro 412 - 13.510 (13.48)(R.T.-.189) at 104.38
2 - Rick Kostka, Bolton - 00 Corvette 350 - 13.663 (13.55)(R.T.-.125) at 105.15
WHAT'S COMING!! - St. Thomas Dragway
Friday, October 19 - Performance Unlimited Street Legal Racing - 6 -10 // $15/car & driver $5/crew or spectator
Saturday, October 20 - Ontario Pontiac Club Day + Test & Tune // Gates open - 10 Time Trials - 11 Eliminations - 2 // $30/test & tune & Pontiacs $10/crew or spectator
Saturday, October 20 - Run What Ya Brung - CANCELLED
Sunday, October 21 - Test & Tune Gates open - 12 Time Trials - 1 - 5 // $30/test & tune $10/crew or spectator
From Dave Mathers / St. Thomas Dragway
NCATS: Full Throttle Team (Brad Graham) Excited About 2008
With the much anticipated arrival of NASCAR and new association with Full Throttle Energy Drinks and Graham Motorsports there was plenty of excitement as the first event arrived in May.
Though the finishing results weren't as strong as everyone had hoped for early on in the season, it was clear that the Full Throttle team was gaining momentum at each race. "I can't say enough about how hard everybody on this team worked all summer long" said Graham. "It's easy to look back at some of the finishing results but they don't tell the whole story. This team is strong, we got even stronger as the year went on and we are so pumped about 2008 that I'd like to start racing right now".
The biggest frustration for the Full Throttle Dodge team all year seemed to be a lack of racing luck. Even though they may not have had the best qualifying runs this was a team that battled hard during the races. Perhaps the best evidence of this was the top-ten finish on the very fast, very challenging road course in Edmonton in the Full Throttle Fury car.
Graham also had hard charging efforts at Trois Rivieres where he gained fourteen positions during the race. At the next event on the 5/8 mile battle ground that is Cayuga Speedway, Brad gained ten positions during the race and claimed a fifth place finish. "These two races really motivated our team and we kept picking up momentum as the season went on" said the driver.
That momentum carried through to the final race of the season where Graham qualified the Full Throttle Dodge on the front row, only a thousandth of a second behind the pole sitter. "We might have lined up second but we were first in our minds" said the driver. "I'm so proud of how hard these guys worked all season. When you switch to a different car manufacturer it takes time to learn the characteristics of the car and how it reacts to adjustments. We've got that book of information now and this will be a team to watch going forward. At the tracks we raced at twice, our performance was better the second time around and the whole team is already set to start racing again next season"
The inaugural NASCAR Canadian Tire Series season featured twelve events on ovals, road courses and temporary street circuits from coast to coast in Canada. All races were broadcast on TSN. For more information about the series log onto http://www.nascar.ca /and for more news information about the team go to http://www.bradgraham.ca/
NCATS: Kennington & Castrol Dodge Season Highlighted by Two Wins at Barrie
ST. THOMAS, ON - DJ Kennington and the Castrol Dodge Team came into the new NASCAR Canadian Tire Series ready to prove they were a team to be reckoned with at each event. From the season opener at Cayuga Speedway right to the end of the season Kennington and the Castrol Dodge Team showed what they were made of.
The new era in Canadian Racing began in May of 2007 at Cayuga Speedway and DJ Kennington and the Castrol Dodge team made their mark in history. In time trials Kennington posted the fastest time and became the first ever Bud Pole Award winner for the series. "That was a pretty nice start to the year," said the driver. "Unfortunately the race didn't go the way we wanted, but we were on it pretty good after that."
A suspension part failure caused a disappointing result in race one, but the Castrol Dodge was finished in the top-five in each of the next five races, including the teams first win of the season at Barrie Speedway. "That was a great night for the whole Castrol team," said Kennington. "It proved to us and to everyone how good this team can be."
DJ Kennington and the Castrol Crew continued to roll along until the road course event at Trois Rivieres where they finished outside the top-ten for the first time since the season opener at Cayuga. The team knew they would have to begin the charge if they wanted a shot at the championship. The Castrol team rolled off three straight podium finishes including what has to be one of the most remarkable race wins ever.
At the second Barrie Speedway event the throttle spring broke on the #17 Castrol car. During a caution period, Kennington made a pit stop and his crew passed him a bungee cord that he hooked around the steering wheel and to the throttle. It worked well enough to allow Kennington to claim his second win of the season. "I was desperate and I knew we didn't have a chance with the throttle sticking, so we tried it and it worked out for us," he exclaimed.
Heading into the final race of the season, Kennington and the Castrol team were second in the overall standings but knew they had to have a perfect day to have a shot at the title. As the race began things were going smoothly, however a part failure would end their day early. While they were disappointed in the race result, the team can be proud of all they accomplished during the year.
Two race victories, including that remarkable bungee cord repair win and two other podium finishes. An incredible eight top-five runs and nine top-tens also helped Kennington and the Castrol Dodge team claim the "Mopar Cup" as the top finishing Dodge powered team. A $5,000 bonus goes to the team as well. "It really is great to win this award," said Kennington. "I'm very pleased to be part of this Dodge group that did so well this year and helped Dodge win the Manufacturer's Championship. They are such great supporters of not only us but the other teams in the series they really deserve it."
In addition to the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series season Kennington has participated in several Busch Series events driving for fellow Canadian Randy McDonald. Kennington�s next drive is scheduled for Memphis on October 27th. The team will also begin to plan for the 2008 season. "There's not really an off season," said Kennington. "We'll be working at the shop regularly all winter to get this Castrol Dodge ready for next season. I really want another shot at that Championship for Castrol, it's been such a great association we've had for many years, I can't thank them enough. I also have to thank Dwight Kennedy at Northern Provincial Pipeline for their support."
The inaugural twelve race NCATS schedule featured events from coast to coast in Canada including stops at the best ovals in the Country along with temporary street circuits in Edmonton and Trois Rivieres. Look for more information all season at www.nascar.ca
This release prepared by TL Sports & Entertainment
The new era in Canadian Racing began in May of 2007 at Cayuga Speedway and DJ Kennington and the Castrol Dodge team made their mark in history. In time trials Kennington posted the fastest time and became the first ever Bud Pole Award winner for the series. "That was a pretty nice start to the year," said the driver. "Unfortunately the race didn't go the way we wanted, but we were on it pretty good after that."
A suspension part failure caused a disappointing result in race one, but the Castrol Dodge was finished in the top-five in each of the next five races, including the teams first win of the season at Barrie Speedway. "That was a great night for the whole Castrol team," said Kennington. "It proved to us and to everyone how good this team can be."
DJ Kennington and the Castrol Crew continued to roll along until the road course event at Trois Rivieres where they finished outside the top-ten for the first time since the season opener at Cayuga. The team knew they would have to begin the charge if they wanted a shot at the championship. The Castrol team rolled off three straight podium finishes including what has to be one of the most remarkable race wins ever.
At the second Barrie Speedway event the throttle spring broke on the #17 Castrol car. During a caution period, Kennington made a pit stop and his crew passed him a bungee cord that he hooked around the steering wheel and to the throttle. It worked well enough to allow Kennington to claim his second win of the season. "I was desperate and I knew we didn't have a chance with the throttle sticking, so we tried it and it worked out for us," he exclaimed.
Heading into the final race of the season, Kennington and the Castrol team were second in the overall standings but knew they had to have a perfect day to have a shot at the title. As the race began things were going smoothly, however a part failure would end their day early. While they were disappointed in the race result, the team can be proud of all they accomplished during the year.
Two race victories, including that remarkable bungee cord repair win and two other podium finishes. An incredible eight top-five runs and nine top-tens also helped Kennington and the Castrol Dodge team claim the "Mopar Cup" as the top finishing Dodge powered team. A $5,000 bonus goes to the team as well. "It really is great to win this award," said Kennington. "I'm very pleased to be part of this Dodge group that did so well this year and helped Dodge win the Manufacturer's Championship. They are such great supporters of not only us but the other teams in the series they really deserve it."
In addition to the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series season Kennington has participated in several Busch Series events driving for fellow Canadian Randy McDonald. Kennington�s next drive is scheduled for Memphis on October 27th. The team will also begin to plan for the 2008 season. "There's not really an off season," said Kennington. "We'll be working at the shop regularly all winter to get this Castrol Dodge ready for next season. I really want another shot at that Championship for Castrol, it's been such a great association we've had for many years, I can't thank them enough. I also have to thank Dwight Kennedy at Northern Provincial Pipeline for their support."
The inaugural twelve race NCATS schedule featured events from coast to coast in Canada including stops at the best ovals in the Country along with temporary street circuits in Edmonton and Trois Rivieres. Look for more information all season at www.nascar.ca
This release prepared by TL Sports & Entertainment
NCATS: Home Hardware Team Celebrate Successful Season
Don Thomson Jr. and the Home Hardware Chevrolet team can be proud of their accomplishments in the inaugural season of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series (NCATS) in 2007. Becoming the first ever race winner in the series would certainly be among the highlights.
It was a long wait for NASCAR to officially come aboard and bring to life the NCATS but the wait was worth it. From the first race there was a sense of pride and professionalism evident in the series. As the green flag began competition for the inaugural race at Cayuga Speedway, every driver dreamed of having their name on the trophy and in the record book as the first ever series winner. Don Thomson Jr. and the Home Hardware Chevrolet team would realize that dream. Taking the lead for good on lap 187 Thomson would take the checkered flag and make his mark in history. "It is kind of special,"he said "that we won the first ever race in the series."
As the summer rolled on so did the successes of the Home Hardware team. Thomson would claim his first of two Bud Pole Awards at Sun Valley Speedway near Vernon, BC; the other would come as the series returned to Cayuga on the Labour Day weekend. The second victory of the season for the Home Hardware team would come in dominating fashion at the half-mile paperclip shaped track at Mosport Speedway. Thomson would lead 181 of the 200 laps on the way to his second win of the season. "I've had some really good races here in the past but we definitely had the dominant car in this one," said Thomson.
The year was not without its bumps for the Home Hardware team. A mechanical breakdown at the Mosport Road course, and a bump from behind that damaged the car beyond repair at the second Cayuga event and other problems would frustrate the team. "We set our standards very high"said Thomson. We won a couple of races, but we had a few mistakes during the year as well, I made mistakes, sometimes the set up of the car was a bit off, it was a few different things. It was a pretty good year, but not our best."
Overall the numbers are very positive. Two victories, including the inaugural series race. Two Bud Pole Awards, five top-five finishes, and eight top-ten finishes helped power the Home Hardware team to a fourth overall finish in the championship standings.
This past weekend at the NCATS year end awards banquet, Thomson and the Home Hardware team were among those honoured for their performance this past season. Thomson was presented with the crystal Pegasus award from Mobil 1 for winning the most 'Command Performance Driver of the Race' awards this season. "I'm really happy for everyone at Fitzpatrick Motorsports and Home Hardware to receive this award," said Thomson.
Fall has arrived but plans are already being made for the 2008 season by the Home Hardware Chevrolet team. "We're looking at building some new cars over the winter to get ready for the 2008 season," said Thomson. "We want to find some of the magic that we had in the past where we won championships in seven straight years and I'm confident we can do that," he added.
The NCATS inaugural season consisted of a twelve event schedule on ovals, road courses and temporary street circuits across Canada. All twelve races this season also aired on TSN. For information about the NCATS including schedule, results and more, log onto www.nascar.ca
This release prepared by TL Sports & Entertainment
It was a long wait for NASCAR to officially come aboard and bring to life the NCATS but the wait was worth it. From the first race there was a sense of pride and professionalism evident in the series. As the green flag began competition for the inaugural race at Cayuga Speedway, every driver dreamed of having their name on the trophy and in the record book as the first ever series winner. Don Thomson Jr. and the Home Hardware Chevrolet team would realize that dream. Taking the lead for good on lap 187 Thomson would take the checkered flag and make his mark in history. "It is kind of special,"he said "that we won the first ever race in the series."
As the summer rolled on so did the successes of the Home Hardware team. Thomson would claim his first of two Bud Pole Awards at Sun Valley Speedway near Vernon, BC; the other would come as the series returned to Cayuga on the Labour Day weekend. The second victory of the season for the Home Hardware team would come in dominating fashion at the half-mile paperclip shaped track at Mosport Speedway. Thomson would lead 181 of the 200 laps on the way to his second win of the season. "I've had some really good races here in the past but we definitely had the dominant car in this one," said Thomson.
The year was not without its bumps for the Home Hardware team. A mechanical breakdown at the Mosport Road course, and a bump from behind that damaged the car beyond repair at the second Cayuga event and other problems would frustrate the team. "We set our standards very high"said Thomson. We won a couple of races, but we had a few mistakes during the year as well, I made mistakes, sometimes the set up of the car was a bit off, it was a few different things. It was a pretty good year, but not our best."
Overall the numbers are very positive. Two victories, including the inaugural series race. Two Bud Pole Awards, five top-five finishes, and eight top-ten finishes helped power the Home Hardware team to a fourth overall finish in the championship standings.
This past weekend at the NCATS year end awards banquet, Thomson and the Home Hardware team were among those honoured for their performance this past season. Thomson was presented with the crystal Pegasus award from Mobil 1 for winning the most 'Command Performance Driver of the Race' awards this season. "I'm really happy for everyone at Fitzpatrick Motorsports and Home Hardware to receive this award," said Thomson.
Fall has arrived but plans are already being made for the 2008 season by the Home Hardware Chevrolet team. "We're looking at building some new cars over the winter to get ready for the 2008 season," said Thomson. "We want to find some of the magic that we had in the past where we won championships in seven straight years and I'm confident we can do that," he added.
The NCATS inaugural season consisted of a twelve event schedule on ovals, road courses and temporary street circuits across Canada. All twelve races this season also aired on TSN. For information about the NCATS including schedule, results and more, log onto www.nascar.ca
This release prepared by TL Sports & Entertainment
#37 Kickbutt Amped Energy Ballz Team: Gains 9 spots in late-going at Lowe's
Aside from one start in 2006, Brad Baker has not raced in the NASCAR Busch Series in four years. To say Baker impressed and turned heads in his 2007 debut would be accurate. Baker and the Kickbutt Amped Energy Ballz team had two impressive practice sessions on Thursday. During the first practice session, Baker and team were among the top-15 for the majority of practice. The final practice session backed up the previous practice with Baker and the team 20th quick overall. Shawn Parker, Crew Chief, radioed to his team at the end of practice, "Good job today team. Tomorrow will be a good day."
Qualifying was held Friday a few hours prior to race time; Brad turned a quick lap of 29.945 seconds at 180.331 mph earning the 22nd starting position. Prior to the race going green, Shawn Parker told his team, "Thanks for all your hard work this weekend and all year long. Today was a good day with Brad. Good luck tonight and stay safe." Brad Baker and the team had high hopes going into the race.
The Dollar General 300 was an action-packed race from the beginning. With multiple racing grooves and intense racing Baker just wanted to log laps and be there at the end of 300 miles. On lap 24 Baker radioed to the team, "I am loose center off." Baker would pit four laps later during the first caution of the night for 4-tires and a chassis adjustment. After the race went back green, Baker radioed in, "The car's not bad on the restart." Baker's spotter and Shawn Parker both coached and offered advice to Brad during the race, "Arc the corner. Get a good rhythm going. You are doing a good job."
On lap 84, Baker told his team the car was "loose getting in tight center off." The caution would come out a few laps later; Baker brought the #37 Kickbutt Amped Energy Ballz Ford Fusion to the attention of his pit crew for 4-tires and another chassis adjustment. Another caution occurred a few laps later. Baker's racecar was still loose getting in but better getting off the corner. He would again pit under this caution to top off with fuel and for a wedge adjustment. During lap 103 Parker told his driver, "Get a rhythm here. You are running faster lap times than you have all night."
A handful of laps later Baker radioed, "We are in it. It is bad." The #37 Kickbutt Amped Energy Ballz Ford was involved in the fifth caution of the night. Crew Chief Shawn Parker called for the car to go behind the wall for repairs. The Kickbutt Amped Energy Ballz team quickly made repairs to the car so Baker could return to the racetrack. After spending 29 laps behind the wall Baker returned to the racing action. Parker told his team, "This is not the night we wanted but we will pick up and move on. Don't feel bad Brad. The leaders are doing the same thing. You are a good smart racecar driver. Don't get down." Baker and the #37 Kickbutt Amped Energy Ballz Ford avoided the other three cautions and came home in the 28th position, gaining nine positions after returning to the racetrack.
Quotes from Brad Baker: "I have to thank Brewco and Kickbutt Amped Energy Ballz for giving me such a good racecar. I had a great car this weekend; we were good when we unloaded and were running quick lap times. Shawn Parker and the guys made great adjustments to the car all weekend. We were running our quickest laps of the race right before we were in that wreck. My team never gave up and quickly repaired the car to get me back out on the track. I hate it for all of the guys back at the shop though. I enjoyed working with everyone on the #37 Kickbutt Amped Energy Ballz Ford this weekend."
The next race for the Kickbutt Amped Energy Ballz team will be the Sam�s Town 250 at Memphis Motorsports Park on Saturday, October 27th. Race time is 3:30 EST with live television coverage beginning at 3:00 EST on ESPN2.
No. 37 Kickbutt Amped Energy Ballz Dollar General 300 Race Stats
Qualified: 22nd // Finished: 28th // Laps: 168/200 // Status: Running // Owner Points Standings: 23rd // Next Up: Memphis Motorsports Park
About Fun Energy Foods, Inc.:
Fun Energy Foods Inc. was created in 2004 with the goal of developing a niche energy food with the same attributes as the most effective energy-enhancing products on the market. The company's 'Amped Energy Ballz' consist of a proprietary blend of top-quality energy-enhancing ingredients in a great tasting and totally unique delivery format. With distribution and a manufacturing plant in Markham Ontario, Canada, Fun Energy Foods Inc. is looking to introduce is products to the United States in the fall of 2007.
For More Information on Kickbutt Amped Energy Ballz visit www.funenergyfoods.com
From Tiffany Bouldin // Media Relations, Brewco Motorsports
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