The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series 2008 season launches this Saturday, May 24th at Cayuga Motor Speedway. Gates open at 12 noon. The race starts at 7:35, and camping is free all weekend!
Friday, May 23, 2008
Thursday, May 22, 2008
THOMSON AND WALKER WORK TO HOLD ON TO SERIES LEAD, WHILE TEAM-MATES BUILD ON SOLID DAYTONA RESULTS
LIME ROCK, CT -- After a truly solid collection of results at the season-opening race at Daytona back in January, and the signing of an immensely talented driver pairing for the team's fourth car, Compass360 Racing (C360R) is looking forward to returning to on-track competition at Lime Rock Park after the long break in the KONI Challenge schedule.
"Karl and Travis finished third at Daytona," noted Crew Chief Ray Lee. "Our other two cars were sixth and tenth, so we are already fighting for a championship with those cars."
Since Daytona the team has signed Trans-Am and Formula Atlantic star Kenny Wilden, with co-driver Jeremy Willard, to drive the #73 TSX with sponsorship from Pure Hair and Body Care. The team will also be introducing their new Honda Civic Si sedan at Lime Rock, which will compliment the three race-proven Acura TSXs that competed so ably at Daytona.
"We've had the Civic out for testing at Mosport over the past few weekends," noted Team Principal Karl Thomson. "Ray and the guys have done an amazing job of making the new car pretty capable out of the box. Travis, Ray and I are still working on fine-tuning the chassis with our new KONI shocks, and we know this is a development car, but we're hoping for good results this season." Noted Lee, "While we develop the Civic, we have three solid pairings in our proven TSXs, so we should be strong through this early part of the year."
Indeed, Lime Rock is a track that the 2007 Champions Adam Burrows and Trevor Hopwood consider home. Both live nearby, cut their teeth on racing there, and showed great promise at the track last season. "We'll have a lot of friends and family out next weekend," remarked Hopwood. "This is our home track and we know our #74 TSX has what it takes to run at the front."
Christian Miller and Kevin York are also looking forward to jumping into the saddle in their #75 TSX. York recently returned to Ross Bentley's Speed Secrets organization as a driver coach, while Miller has busied himself behind the wheel of the 034 Motorsport Time Attack car during the spring Grand-Am break.
The KONI Challenge cars take to the track on Friday, May 23rd, with the Street Tuner race scheduled to start at 3:00pm on Saturday.
Compass360 Racing (C360R) is the motorsports division of Compass360 Design + Advertising, a firm offering branding expertise to clients in diverse industries across North America. For details visit http://www.compass360.com/racing.
PR inquiries about the Compass360 Racing team should be directed to Team Principal Karl Thomson at (416) 465-2299 x21 or email karlt at compass360 dot com
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Helio shuffling over to NASCAR?
"On the eve of American open-wheel racing's biggest race, Helio Castroneves acknowledged he's been thinking about following other open-wheel stars to NASCAR, the Los Angeles Times reported.
"I won't deny that I'm thinking about it," Castroneves said Monday, according to the Times. "It would be great to one day try the [stock] cars. But at this point I'm focusing on Indy cars and winning the Indianapolis 500 again."
"I won't deny that I'm thinking about it," Castroneves said Monday, according to the Times. "It would be great to one day try the [stock] cars. But at this point I'm focusing on Indy cars and winning the Indianapolis 500 again."
... continued at the link above.
Auto Clearing Motor Speedway: WEST kicks off this weekend
SASKATOON, SK - The closest thing to NASCAR in Western Canada will happen this weekend (Friday Saturday, May 23 & 24th) at Saskatoon's Auto Clearing Motor Speedway. The 'Start Your Engines' weekend for the Siemens Western Elite StockCar Tour.
The weekend begins Friday, May 23 with a Charity BBQ at Centennial Plumbing on corner of 51st and Miners Ave. from 11 am to 2 pm. Come out and meet some of the drivers. Happy Hour at The Shark Club from 5 to 8 pm. Siemens WEST cars will be on display.
Saturday night under the lights is the big race, The Express Foods 125 Border Challenge. Gates open at 5:30 pm. Time trials at 6 pm and the green flag drops at pm. Special Driver Introductions. Advance tickets available at all the Macs stores in Saskatoon and Prince Albert.
From Herm Hordal // Business Development // Auto Clearing Motor Speedway
The weekend begins Friday, May 23 with a Charity BBQ at Centennial Plumbing on corner of 51st and Miners Ave. from 11 am to 2 pm. Come out and meet some of the drivers. Happy Hour at The Shark Club from 5 to 8 pm. Siemens WEST cars will be on display.
Saturday night under the lights is the big race, The Express Foods 125 Border Challenge. Gates open at 5:30 pm. Time trials at 6 pm and the green flag drops at pm. Special Driver Introductions. Advance tickets available at all the Macs stores in Saskatoon and Prince Albert.
From Herm Hordal // Business Development // Auto Clearing Motor Speedway
First race of the season, and already Twofast Racing is on the podium
Montréal, May 20th, 2008 – The TwoFast Racing team competed in the first round of the Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship at the Mosport International Raceway on May 17th and 18th and gave an outstanding performance with a podium finish.
Very happy to be back behind the wheel for the 2008 season, the team’s drivers were quite pleased with their performances, even though they had to face many difficulties during the week-end.
For Christian Raymond, driver of the Mazda # 04, the Friday practice went really well and gave him a chance to try the new tires. After choosing to step out of the qualifications, Raymond started the Saturday race from the 7th position. I felt really confident, the track had dried between the qualifications and the afternoon race and I knew I was able to get to the front of the pack. During the very first lap, Raymond quickly moved to the third position, finishing the race in second position.
On the Sunday, the conditions were horrible for the final race of the week-end – it was raining cats and dogs and we just couldn’t see a thing. However, for most of the race, I held the first position, it felt great!, says Raymond. With only one lap to go and a yellow flag ahead, the driver had to slow down, in order to stay behind a lapped car, which gave a chance to Nigel Heron to pass him in the following turn, leaving Raymond with a second position. If we continue to perform like in this first race, the 2008 season will be a great one. Being second in the Championship at the beginning of the season is beyond my expectations!
For Éric Leblanc, driver of the Mazda # 40, the week-end was full of surprises. At the fourth lap of the Friday practice, his car’s engine died. A team of mechanics from Montreal was rushed to Mosport with another engine and worked all night long, so that Leblanc could be back on the racing track for the Saturday morning qualifications, during which he held the first position until he made the decision to step out two laps before the end of the session, as the ground was drying. That decision left him with a 4th position : I decided to go back to the pit because I did not want to abuse the new engine that we had just installed.
As soon as the Saturday race started, and while Leblanc was leading the pack, the clutch broke! It’s always difficult to pull over before the end of the race, but it’s worst when you are in the very first position. We didn’t have a replacement part : the only one we could find was 45 minutes away and we could only get it the next morning at 9 o’clock! I got there, called the team to confirm that I had located the appropriate part, so that they could start preparing the car again, while I was driving back to Mosport with the precious clutch. The mechanics did a wonderful job and succeeded in fixing the car in time for the Sunday race – what a great team!, exclaimed Leblanc. Despite all these technical difficulties and one stop at the pit to clear the windshield, Leblanc finished in the 6th spot, earning precious points towards the Championship.
The team is already adjusting the cars and preparing them for an even greater performance during the next race in Shannonville May 31st-June 1st.
Two Fast racing wants to mention the incredible efforts their mechanics gave during the whole week preceding the race and during the week-end : Yves Bédard, chief mechanic, as well as Alexandre Boiteau, Benoît Brazeau, Dominique Brazeau and Mathieu Ouellette. The racing team also wants to thank their driver, François Ouellette, and their precious sponsors, the Québec Mazda Dealers Association, Rythme Urbain, Rack’N’Roll, Lettrage ProVan, International AllStars and Mazdaspeed.
Visit TwoFast Racing at http://www.twofast.ca/.
Information on the Championship is available at http://www.touringcar.ca/.
Very happy to be back behind the wheel for the 2008 season, the team’s drivers were quite pleased with their performances, even though they had to face many difficulties during the week-end.
For Christian Raymond, driver of the Mazda # 04, the Friday practice went really well and gave him a chance to try the new tires. After choosing to step out of the qualifications, Raymond started the Saturday race from the 7th position. I felt really confident, the track had dried between the qualifications and the afternoon race and I knew I was able to get to the front of the pack. During the very first lap, Raymond quickly moved to the third position, finishing the race in second position.
On the Sunday, the conditions were horrible for the final race of the week-end – it was raining cats and dogs and we just couldn’t see a thing. However, for most of the race, I held the first position, it felt great!, says Raymond. With only one lap to go and a yellow flag ahead, the driver had to slow down, in order to stay behind a lapped car, which gave a chance to Nigel Heron to pass him in the following turn, leaving Raymond with a second position. If we continue to perform like in this first race, the 2008 season will be a great one. Being second in the Championship at the beginning of the season is beyond my expectations!
For Éric Leblanc, driver of the Mazda # 40, the week-end was full of surprises. At the fourth lap of the Friday practice, his car’s engine died. A team of mechanics from Montreal was rushed to Mosport with another engine and worked all night long, so that Leblanc could be back on the racing track for the Saturday morning qualifications, during which he held the first position until he made the decision to step out two laps before the end of the session, as the ground was drying. That decision left him with a 4th position : I decided to go back to the pit because I did not want to abuse the new engine that we had just installed.
As soon as the Saturday race started, and while Leblanc was leading the pack, the clutch broke! It’s always difficult to pull over before the end of the race, but it’s worst when you are in the very first position. We didn’t have a replacement part : the only one we could find was 45 minutes away and we could only get it the next morning at 9 o’clock! I got there, called the team to confirm that I had located the appropriate part, so that they could start preparing the car again, while I was driving back to Mosport with the precious clutch. The mechanics did a wonderful job and succeeded in fixing the car in time for the Sunday race – what a great team!, exclaimed Leblanc. Despite all these technical difficulties and one stop at the pit to clear the windshield, Leblanc finished in the 6th spot, earning precious points towards the Championship.
The team is already adjusting the cars and preparing them for an even greater performance during the next race in Shannonville May 31st-June 1st.
Two Fast racing wants to mention the incredible efforts their mechanics gave during the whole week preceding the race and during the week-end : Yves Bédard, chief mechanic, as well as Alexandre Boiteau, Benoît Brazeau, Dominique Brazeau and Mathieu Ouellette. The racing team also wants to thank their driver, François Ouellette, and their precious sponsors, the Québec Mazda Dealers Association, Rythme Urbain, Rack’N’Roll, Lettrage ProVan, International AllStars and Mazdaspeed.
Visit TwoFast Racing at http://www.twofast.ca/.
Information on the Championship is available at http://www.touringcar.ca/.
Barrie Speedway NASCAR Whelen All American Series Feature Win for the Real Dodge
At the start of the feature the field bunched up coming to the green flag and there was a bumper tag incident on the inside line that resulted in The Look Company car falling nearly to the back of the pack. More importantly at the end of the first lap, the top three cars from the previous week's feature had gone by and Keith had a huge task ahead to get to the front from 14th in only 35 laps.
With lots of patience and some opportune passing on both the inside and outside, Keith put the car into first place before half distance. After getting to the front the race was far from over as a series of caution flags bunched the field and gave the second place challengers opportunities on the restart. After a couple of close calls including one where Keith saved the car after having been knocked sideways in turn two, Keith was able to nail the victory. The win moved him to 4th place in the early season standings, only 6 points out of first.
It also firmly announced his candidacy for the 2008 Championship after a 2007 season that left the team a handful of points back in 2nd. In his best season to date Keith won 4 features, had 17 top 5 finishes and 19 top 10s in 22 starts and set a new track lap record. He ended up the NASCAR Provincial standings 2 points out of first.
After finishing so close to the championship, the team had the winter to think about the things that needed improvement for the 2008 season. Reflecting back on the long season identified several areas. The first obvious answer was to work harder on reliability as two early season DNFs put the team behind early on. Another change made was a return to Dodge power from Howard Race Engines after running the GM crate engine last year from week 2 onwards. The car is dubbed the Real Dodge as one of the few Late Models in the province with a Dodge engine to match the body.
Opening night on May 10 started to seem like a bad case of déjà vu as a practice night problem with a leaking oil seal resurfaced in warm-ups. The team refused to give up and set about the onerous task of removing the driveshaft, transmission, bellhousing and clutch to make the oil pan repairs with the engine in the car and in time for the first heat. Their hard work was rewarded with a 5th place finish on a night that could have easily been spent on the trailer.
Ironically after winning the May 17 feature, the Speedway tech team checked clutches so for the fourth time in ten days the crew was again taking most of the driveline apart. On a long cold night of racing, no one was complaining.
The Look Company – Lewis Motors Team team is competing throughout the summer of 2008 in the NASCAR Whelen All American Series at Barrie Speedway in Oro-Medonte, Ontario.
About the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series: The NASCAR Whelen All-American Series is North America's number one weekly short track program with thousands of competitors racing at over 50 premier facilities throughout North America. Barrie Speedway is the first racetrack in Ontario competing in this new series and one of only three tracks in Canada. NASCAR currently sanctions over 1,600 events each year, of which 80% are NASCAR Whelen All-American Series events. NASCAR weekly series programs have recognized thousands of drivers, launched the careers of many NEXTEL cup superstars and awarded millions of dollars in prize money.
For more information about the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series. see these websites:
Barrie Speedway – http://www.barriespeedway.com
Whelen Motorsports – http://www.whelen.com/motorsports/
NASCAR Local Racing - http://localracing.nascar.com/news/3
About The Look Company: The Look Company is the world's leading provider of Look solutions with a comprehensive suite of products and services for large-scale sports, cultural and entertainment events, as well as corporate retail. Established in 1998 in Barrie, Canada, The Look Company has studios and manufacturing facilities in Toronto, Edmonton, Doha, Qatar and Johannesburg, South Africa. For more information about The Look Company. please contact: Ed Burke, CEO // E eburke@thelookcompany.com // http://www.thelookcompany.com
By Rod McLeod
Ohsweken Speedway: Iroquois Poker Presents Round 2 of Ohsweken Speedway Friday Night Thunder
OHSWEKEN, ON - Great racing was the order of the day as the first racing events of Ohsweken Speedway's 2008 season took the green flag on May 16, and more of the same is expected this coming Friday, May 23. This week, Iroquois Poker presents Round 2 of Friday Night Thunder featuring the Fun Stocks, ESSO Mini-Stocks, ESSO Thunder-Stocks, and Winged Sprint Cars presented by Corr/Pak Merchandising.
Last week Karl Sault took the first ever Fun Stock checkered flag, while Abel Castelein began defense of his ESSO Mini-Stock track championship in fine fashion, taking the checkered flag in the 15 lap feature after a hard-fought battle with Rick Robinson.
Cody MacPherson also visited Engine Pro Racing/Melling Performance Pumps/Ferrara Valves Victory Lane Friday night, serving notice to 2nd place finisher Brad Bacher and the rest of the ESSO Thunder-Stock competitors that there is a new contender in town.
In the inaugural event for the Winged Sprint Cars presented by Corr/Pak Merchandising, Glenn Styres ended a 2 year winless drought by dominating the 20 lap feature, but Fred Cade, Rob Pietz, and a host of other drivers are sure to challenge for feature wins and the track championship all season long.
Advanced reserved seat ticket orders for the World of Outlaws Late Models June 19, World of Outlaws Sprint Cars July 22 and 23, and Canadian Sprint Car Nationals September 12 and 13 continue to be taken, while previously ordered tickets should be arriving in your mailbox within the next two weeks.
The June 1 deadline for 2 day ticket packages for the World of Outlaws Sprints is fast approaching. Please visit http://www.ohswekenspeedway/ and call 1-888-720-RACE to order yours today!
Adult Admission is just $10 and kids 12 and under are FREE this week when Iroquois Poker presents Round 2 of Friday Night Thunder at Ohsweken Speedway Friday, May 23! Gates open at 6:00 p.m., Hot Laps start at 7:00 p.m., and racing begins at 7:45 p.m. Ohsweken Speedway is located on Chiefswood Road in the village of Ohsweken, just minutes from Brantford.
By Tommy Goudge
Last week Karl Sault took the first ever Fun Stock checkered flag, while Abel Castelein began defense of his ESSO Mini-Stock track championship in fine fashion, taking the checkered flag in the 15 lap feature after a hard-fought battle with Rick Robinson.
Cody MacPherson also visited Engine Pro Racing/Melling Performance Pumps/Ferrara Valves Victory Lane Friday night, serving notice to 2nd place finisher Brad Bacher and the rest of the ESSO Thunder-Stock competitors that there is a new contender in town.
In the inaugural event for the Winged Sprint Cars presented by Corr/Pak Merchandising, Glenn Styres ended a 2 year winless drought by dominating the 20 lap feature, but Fred Cade, Rob Pietz, and a host of other drivers are sure to challenge for feature wins and the track championship all season long.
Advanced reserved seat ticket orders for the World of Outlaws Late Models June 19, World of Outlaws Sprint Cars July 22 and 23, and Canadian Sprint Car Nationals September 12 and 13 continue to be taken, while previously ordered tickets should be arriving in your mailbox within the next two weeks.
The June 1 deadline for 2 day ticket packages for the World of Outlaws Sprints is fast approaching. Please visit http://www.ohswekenspeedway/ and call 1-888-720-RACE to order yours today!
Adult Admission is just $10 and kids 12 and under are FREE this week when Iroquois Poker presents Round 2 of Friday Night Thunder at Ohsweken Speedway Friday, May 23! Gates open at 6:00 p.m., Hot Laps start at 7:00 p.m., and racing begins at 7:45 p.m. Ohsweken Speedway is located on Chiefswood Road in the village of Ohsweken, just minutes from Brantford.
By Tommy Goudge
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
NASCAR Canadian Tire Series News & Notes - Cayuga Motor Speedway
A Look Back: Thomson Collects Win in Inaugural Race
TSN Continues as Television Home for NASCAR Canadian Tire Series
Cayuga Adds Another Race to its Rich History
Ranger Ready to Go for Title Defense
What a difference a year makes for Andrew Ranger (No. 27 Tide/Wal-Mart Ford Fusion).
Even at the young age of 20, his racing résumé was long and varied, but there was just one stock car race on it, and it wasn't a particularly good outing. Now, at 21, he is the defending champion, of all things, a stock car racing series - the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Sirius Satellite Radio.
Like all championships, it was built upon an entire season of success. He took control of the point standings after winning the season's second race at Mosport International Raceway and never relinquished it. All the while, he withstood challenges from Canada's best and most-experienced stock car drivers - Don Thomson Jr., Peter Gibbons, Mark Dilley, J.R. Fitzpatrick and D.J. Kennington.
"That was last year and it's over now," said Ranger. "It's a new year and time to start all over again."
It is a new year, but this time around there is a familiarity with both the tracks and the car that was not there a season ago which gives the Roxton Pond, Quebec driver a sense of comfort. Something else Ranger has this year - a target on his back, but this is of little concern, too.
"Everyone wants to win," said Ranger. "I don't feel any pressure about being the champion. When the race starts, everyone just wants to win that race and do their best."
The foot injured earlier in the year in an motorcycle ice racing accident is a non-issue as well. Rehabilitation continues, but there are no limitations from his doctors as the season commences.
"I can walk, jog and ride a bike. It feels great. I'm ready to go."
There's no doubt Ranger's title came as a product of his success on the road courses. He finished first or second in all four road course events last season. However, his ability to handle the majority of the schedule, the ovals, and keep the car on the track cannot be overlooked. In fact, his average finish on the oval tracks was a more-than-respectable 7.25, including three top fives.
"We did pretty well on the ovals. We led some laps along the way and got some good finishes," he stated.
He does not feel a win on an oval course brings about a magical stamp of approval from the stock car racing world.
"I think the other competitors know what we are capable of and respect our program," Ranger said. "Don't get me wrong, though. I do want to win an oval race, but the situation has to present itself when racing for points."
Joining Ranger in the Jacombs Racing stable will be former Champ Car standout and fellow Quebec native Alex Tagliani. Last season, Tagliani competed in Montreal and Trois-Rivieres.
"It'll be nice to have a teammate at the oval tracks as well as the road courses," said Ranger. "I don't know what the advantages are yet. Alex, like I was, is pretty new to these cars and most of the tracks. We'll just have to see how it all comes together. I am excited about it, though."
While Ranger did suffer three fractures of his left foot in the motorcycle spill in mid-February, it happened after Daytona Speedweeks which allowed him to gain valuable experience. He competed along with Colin Braun, Brian Frisselle and Mark Wilkins in a Daytona Prototype in the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona. They finished 19th in the DP class and 48th overall. More importantly for him, though, was his experience in the ARCA RE/MAX Series at Daytona International Speedway. He failed to qualify for the event, but the seat time in the heavier steel-bodied car will prove valuable as his career progresses.
"It didn't go as I would have liked, but the chance to handle the heavier car on a track that size was good," he said.
Heading into the Crown Jewel 200 at Cayuga Motor Speedway, Ranger feels good both mentally and physically.
"I am very much ready to go. I like the track at Cayuga. It is fast," Ranger stated. "It's a little bumpy in places, but that really helps concentration. It's been a long (off-season) and it is time to get 2008 underway."
Whitlock Teams with Cause Close to His Heart
Dave Whitlock is partnering for the 2008 season with the Prostate Cancer Research Foundation of Canada and will carry their logo on the rear quarter panel of his No. 39 Dickies/NMT Nitrex Dodge Avenger.
"Given the fact that cancer has stricken my family numerous times, I am a keen supporter of any type of cancer detection," said Whitlock. "I am very honored to be able to assist them in getting their message out to the male population of NASCAR."
The Prostate Cancer Research Foundation of Canada is the leading national organization devoted solely to eliminating the threat of prostate cancer. Their mission is to raise funds for the prevention, treatment and cure, as well as the education of Canadians through awareness and advocacy.
"By working with Whitlock Motorsports, we're appealing to men and their families through the popularity of NASCAR," said Greg Sarney, the foundation's vice president for Corporate Development and Marketing.
Cayuga Motor Speedway: Canada's Crown Jewel
Cayuga Motor Speedway has been the site for many of Canada's top motorsports events since its opening in 1966.
Top names in racing have competed at the track over the years including Bobby Allison, Dale Earnhardt, Bill Elliott, Tony Stewart and Darrell Waltrip.
The .625-mile semi-banked oval was a staple track of the CASCAR Super Series and has become that for the Canadian Tire Series as well. The track hosted the first-ever series event last May 26, won by Don Thomson Jr. Derek Lynch earned the victory last Sept. 1 at the facility which covers nearly 300 acres with 1,500 campsites. This will be the third series event at Cayuga.
The one-lap qualifying record for the Canadian Tire Series at Cayuga is held by D.J. Kennington and was set during time trials for that inaugural event. He posted a lap time of 20.785 seconds which translates to an average speed of 108.251 mph.
A Look Back: Thomson Collects Win in Inaugural Race
It was a race that everyone wanted to win. After years of rumors and hopefulness, NASCAR, at last, had set up shop in Canada and the first event was at hand.
The race had the look of almost any season-opening event - a lot of shiny racecars, realistic dreams for every team and anxious drivers. However, this was not just any season opener. This was the inaugural race for the brand new NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Sirius Satellite Radio - the first NASCAR event by either a regional or national series in many years.
"It was a little sloppy at times out there, but I think that was just because everyone wanted to win it so bad. I know I did," said the victorious Don Thomson Jr.
The multi-time CASCAR Super Series champion was no stranger to big wins in his career, but it was easy to detect the specialness of this one.
What a difference a year makes for Andrew Ranger (No. 27 Tide/Wal-Mart Ford Fusion).
Even at the young age of 20, his racing résumé was long and varied, but there was just one stock car race on it, and it wasn't a particularly good outing. Now, at 21, he is the defending champion, of all things, a stock car racing series - the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Sirius Satellite Radio.
Like all championships, it was built upon an entire season of success. He took control of the point standings after winning the season's second race at Mosport International Raceway and never relinquished it. All the while, he withstood challenges from Canada's best and most-experienced stock car drivers - Don Thomson Jr., Peter Gibbons, Mark Dilley, J.R. Fitzpatrick and D.J. Kennington.
"That was last year and it's over now," said Ranger. "It's a new year and time to start all over again."
It is a new year, but this time around there is a familiarity with both the tracks and the car that was not there a season ago which gives the Roxton Pond, Quebec driver a sense of comfort. Something else Ranger has this year - a target on his back, but this is of little concern, too.
"Everyone wants to win," said Ranger. "I don't feel any pressure about being the champion. When the race starts, everyone just wants to win that race and do their best."
The foot injured earlier in the year in an motorcycle ice racing accident is a non-issue as well. Rehabilitation continues, but there are no limitations from his doctors as the season commences.
"I can walk, jog and ride a bike. It feels great. I'm ready to go."
There's no doubt Ranger's title came as a product of his success on the road courses. He finished first or second in all four road course events last season. However, his ability to handle the majority of the schedule, the ovals, and keep the car on the track cannot be overlooked. In fact, his average finish on the oval tracks was a more-than-respectable 7.25, including three top fives.
"We did pretty well on the ovals. We led some laps along the way and got some good finishes," he stated.
He does not feel a win on an oval course brings about a magical stamp of approval from the stock car racing world.
"I think the other competitors know what we are capable of and respect our program," Ranger said. "Don't get me wrong, though. I do want to win an oval race, but the situation has to present itself when racing for points."
Joining Ranger in the Jacombs Racing stable will be former Champ Car standout and fellow Quebec native Alex Tagliani. Last season, Tagliani competed in Montreal and Trois-Rivieres.
"It'll be nice to have a teammate at the oval tracks as well as the road courses," said Ranger. "I don't know what the advantages are yet. Alex, like I was, is pretty new to these cars and most of the tracks. We'll just have to see how it all comes together. I am excited about it, though."
While Ranger did suffer three fractures of his left foot in the motorcycle spill in mid-February, it happened after Daytona Speedweeks which allowed him to gain valuable experience. He competed along with Colin Braun, Brian Frisselle and Mark Wilkins in a Daytona Prototype in the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona. They finished 19th in the DP class and 48th overall. More importantly for him, though, was his experience in the ARCA RE/MAX Series at Daytona International Speedway. He failed to qualify for the event, but the seat time in the heavier steel-bodied car will prove valuable as his career progresses.
"It didn't go as I would have liked, but the chance to handle the heavier car on a track that size was good," he said.
Heading into the Crown Jewel 200 at Cayuga Motor Speedway, Ranger feels good both mentally and physically.
"I am very much ready to go. I like the track at Cayuga. It is fast," Ranger stated. "It's a little bumpy in places, but that really helps concentration. It's been a long (off-season) and it is time to get 2008 underway."
Whitlock Teams with Cause Close to His Heart
Dave Whitlock is partnering for the 2008 season with the Prostate Cancer Research Foundation of Canada and will carry their logo on the rear quarter panel of his No. 39 Dickies/NMT Nitrex Dodge Avenger.
"Given the fact that cancer has stricken my family numerous times, I am a keen supporter of any type of cancer detection," said Whitlock. "I am very honored to be able to assist them in getting their message out to the male population of NASCAR."
The Prostate Cancer Research Foundation of Canada is the leading national organization devoted solely to eliminating the threat of prostate cancer. Their mission is to raise funds for the prevention, treatment and cure, as well as the education of Canadians through awareness and advocacy.
"By working with Whitlock Motorsports, we're appealing to men and their families through the popularity of NASCAR," said Greg Sarney, the foundation's vice president for Corporate Development and Marketing.
Cayuga Motor Speedway: Canada's Crown Jewel
Cayuga Motor Speedway has been the site for many of Canada's top motorsports events since its opening in 1966.
Top names in racing have competed at the track over the years including Bobby Allison, Dale Earnhardt, Bill Elliott, Tony Stewart and Darrell Waltrip.
The .625-mile semi-banked oval was a staple track of the CASCAR Super Series and has become that for the Canadian Tire Series as well. The track hosted the first-ever series event last May 26, won by Don Thomson Jr. Derek Lynch earned the victory last Sept. 1 at the facility which covers nearly 300 acres with 1,500 campsites. This will be the third series event at Cayuga.
The one-lap qualifying record for the Canadian Tire Series at Cayuga is held by D.J. Kennington and was set during time trials for that inaugural event. He posted a lap time of 20.785 seconds which translates to an average speed of 108.251 mph.
A Look Back: Thomson Collects Win in Inaugural Race
It was a race that everyone wanted to win. After years of rumors and hopefulness, NASCAR, at last, had set up shop in Canada and the first event was at hand.
The race had the look of almost any season-opening event - a lot of shiny racecars, realistic dreams for every team and anxious drivers. However, this was not just any season opener. This was the inaugural race for the brand new NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Sirius Satellite Radio - the first NASCAR event by either a regional or national series in many years.
"It was a little sloppy at times out there, but I think that was just because everyone wanted to win it so bad. I know I did," said the victorious Don Thomson Jr.
The multi-time CASCAR Super Series champion was no stranger to big wins in his career, but it was easy to detect the specialness of this one.
"I've been lucky enough to win some races, but this one is right at the top of the list, if not the very top. What a thrill! We've all waited for this moment for a long time. No one will ever be able to take this away from me - I won the first one," he exclaimed.
D.J. Kennington was the polesitter for the event, but his time at the front of the pack was short- lived due to a broken rear trailing arm after just a single lap. All told, eight different drivers led during the 200-lap race, but Thomson led a race-high 79 circuits around the .625-mile Cayuga track.
"I felt great about the time we put up in qualifying and was very confident heading into the race, but it just wasn't meant to be, I guess," said Kennington.
A Quick Look at the 2008 Season
The first year of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series exceeded every expectation. Now, it is time to build on that success and grow the series while establishing a solid foundation for the future.
Defending champion Andrew Ranger does not have the element of surprise on his side as he did a year ago. He will look to maintain his mastery of the road course tracks where he finished first or second in all four last season. His performance on the ovals was solid as well, but he aims at a victory in 2008.
Expect to see Don Thomson Jr. challenging Ranger every step of the way. Thomson was none too happy with his performance in 2007, despite finishing fourth in the point standings.
The Canadian Tire Series, once again, finds its strong suit is experience. Several veteran drivers return with realistic championship goals. The likes of Mark Dilley, Peter Gibbons and Ron Beauchamp Jr. exhibited their potential at varying times in 2007, but were not able to capture the consistency needed for a championship.
The schedule is very similar to last season's. A notable addition is a trip to Autodrome St-Eustache in Quebec for the summer's second event. The western swing ends on July 26 in Edmonton and teams will have to travel eastward across the country for an Aug. 2 date at Montreal's Circuit Gilles Villeneuve alongside the NASCAR Nationwide Series.
The series also will see some non-Ontario teams increase their participation this season. Jason White, racing out of Sun Peaks, B.C., plans to make as many races as possible. Alberta's Todd Nichol is looking to compete in some eastern events as well. Donald Chisholm, from the maritime province of Nova Scotia, is stepping up his program after a successful debut last season.
What to Watch for in 2008
A Man Possessed - Five-time CASCAR Super Series champion Don Thomson Jr. had a disappointing season in 2007, at least in his mind. He finished fourth in the final point standings and that was not at all to his liking. Just minutes following the final race of 2007, the tireless veteran all but guaranteed a better performance in 2008.
Road Course Dominance - Defending series champ Andrew Ranger finished first or second in all four road course events a year ago and was in position to win all four. His three second-place finishes were the result of last-lap passes. Can that same success be duplicated in 2008?
Carrying the Momentum - Derek Lynch finished the 2007 season as strong or stronger than any other driver. He closed out the season with four consecutive top 10s, three of which were top-five efforts, including his Sept. 1 win at Cayuga.
The Long Haul - The two western Canada races will be held on July 19 and 26 in Vernon, B.C., and Edmonton, respectively. Just one week after the Edmonton date, the series has a date at Montreal's Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, alongside the NASCAR Nationwide Series, nearly 3,800 kilometers away.
A Wider Scope - Last year, the core competitors were virtually all Ontario-based teams. In 2008, look for a larger footprint with the western teams of Jason White and Todd Nichol increasing their participation and also, Donald Chisholm, who had a solid debut at his home track last season. The Antigonish, Nova Scotia-based driver also has plans to enter more events this season.
TSN is, Again, Television Home for Canadian Tire Series
For the second consecutive season, TSN, Canada's Sports Leader, will be the exclusive broadcast partner of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Sirius Satellite Radio.
TSN will nationally televise 13 one-hour broadcasts - one for each of the series' 13 races. Coverage gets underway on May 30 at midnight ET with the Crown Jewel 200, the first race of the season, taking place on the speedy .625-mile oval at Cayuga International Speedway.
The shows will be produced by James Robinson Associates Ltd. and will include race coverage, driver interviews and features. Dave Bradley will provide the play-by-play alongside colour analyst Billy Rowse Jr. Todd Lewis rounds out the broadcast team as pit reporter. The majority of race coverage will air in High Definition.
TSN's NASCAR Canadian Tire Series coverage complements the network's all-encompassing NASCAR programming, which includes full-season action of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and NASCAR Nationwide Series.
The early season will be highlighted by the first visit to Autodrome St-Eustache in Quebec. A trip to western Canada in mid-July will see visits to SunValley Speedway in Vernon, B.C., and to Edmonton for the Rexall Edmonton Indy.
The season will culminate with a September trip to the maritime province of Nova Scotia and the season finale at Kawartha Speedway.
The high-banked .333-mile track at Riverside International Speedway in Antigonish, N.S., is a favorite among the competitors. The track is a scale model of the legendary Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway.
The Race: Crown Jewel 200
The Place: Cayuga Motor Speedway, Hamilton, Ont.
The Date: May 24
The Time: 7:32 p.m. ET
TV Schedule: Midnight, May 30 (delayed)
Track Layout: .625-mile paved
Race Purse: $68,511 CAD
2006 Winner: Don Thomson Jr.
2006 Pole: D.J. Kennington
Schedule: Saturday: Practice 12 noon - 2 p.m., Time Trials 4:30 p.m.
Track Contact: Frank Marchionda (289) 244-9388
From Shon Sbarra / NASCAR
Delaware Speedway Race Results May 16, 2008
Delaware Speedway
London, Ontario // May 16, 2008
Weekly Racing (APC Late Model 5/16/08)
Feature:1. Danny Delisle (Lasalle, ON), 2. Scott Lindsay (St. Marys, ON), 3. Steve Robblee (Dorchester, ON), 4. Ron Sheridan (Mt. Brydges, ON), 5. D.J. Kennington (St. Thomas, ON), 6. Jamie Ramsay (St. Thomas, ON), 7. Steven Matthews (Newliskerd, ON), 8. Bryan Mercer (Port Hope, ON), 9. Doug Stewart (London, ON), 10. Al Lebert, 11. Scott Menlin (McComb, Mi), 12. Jesse Kennedy (Southwold, ON), 13. Tyler Brown (Waterdown, ON), 14. Chad Rijnen (London, ON), 15. Jesse Pontello (St. Catherines, ON), 16. Simon Wild (Ingersoll, ON), 17. Matt Box (Mississauga, ON), 18. Duke Sawchuck (Emeryville, ), 19. Kirk Hooker (Chatham, ON), 20. Rick Emery (Ruscom, ON), 21. Brandon Watson (Stayner, ON), 22. James Shaw, 23. Dion Verhoeven (Kerwood, ON),
Heat 1:1. Scott Lindsay (St. Marys, ON), 2. Danny Delisle (Lasalle, ON), 3. Kirk Hooker (Chatham, ON), 4. D.J. Kennington (St. Thomas, ON), 5. Steve Robblee (Dorchester, ON), 6. Ron Sheridan (Mt. Brydges, ON), 7. Tyler Brown (Waterdown, ON), 8. Brandon Watson (Stayner, ON), 9. Steven Matthews (Newliskerd, ON), 10. Al Lebert, 11. Jesse Pontello (St. Catherines, ON),
Heat 2:1. Duke Sawchuck (Emeryville, ), 2. Jamie Ramsay (St. Thomas, ON), 3. Jesse Kennedy (Southwold, ON), 4. Matt Box (Mississauga, ON), 5. Bryan Mercer (Port Hope, ON), 6. Chad Rijnen (London, ON), 7. Doug Stewart (London, ON), 8. Simon Wild (Ingersoll, ON), 9. Rick Emery (Ruscom, ON), 10. James Shaw, 11. Scott Menlin (McComb, Mi), 12. Dion Verhoeven (Kerwood, ON),
Weekly Racing (Challenger Motor Freight Trucks 5/16/08)
Feature:1. Paul Fothergill (London, ON), 2. Randy Thompson (Dorchester, ON), 3. Jeff Showler (Mt. Elgin, ON), 4. Tom Zagorodny (London, ON), 5. Steve Lovie (Dutton, ON), 6. Devon Bloemendal (Delaware, ON), 7. Shawn Johns (St. Marys, ON), 8. Darrell Porter (Dorchester, ON), 9. Dennis McColl (, ON), 10. Kathleen Hosang (Zurich, ON), 11. Derek Clark (Strathroy, ON), 12. Gary Adriaensen (London, ON), 13. John Walzack (London, ON), 14. Jordan Dupuis (Windsor, ON), 15. Chad Rijnen (Thamesford, ON), 16. Justin Demello (, ON), 17. Mike Arnold (London, ON),
Heat 1:1. Jeff Showler (Mt. Elgin, ON), 2. Chad Rijnen (Thamesford, ON), 3. Dennis McColl (, ON), 4. Tom Zagorodny (London, ON), 5. Randy Thompson (Dorchester, ON), 6. Derek Clark (Strathroy, ON), 7. John Walzack (London, ON), 8. Justin Demello (, ON), 9. Steve Lovie (Dutton, ON),
Heat 2:1. Darrell Porter (Dorchester, ON), 2. Devon Bloemendal (Delaware, ON), 3. Paul Fothergill (London, ON), 4. Kathleen Hosang (Zurich, ON), 5. Gary Adriaensen (London, ON), 6. Jordan Dupuis (Windsor, ON), 7. Mike Arnold (London, ON), 8. Shawn Johns (St. Marys, ON),
Weekly Racing (Peterbilt Super Stock 5/16/08)
Feature:1. Ray Morneau (Windsor, ON), 2. Scott O�Connor (London, ON), 3. , Silverthorne JR, 4. Jason Lidster (St. Thomas, ON), 5. Darrell Lake (London, ON), 6. Jim Mairs (London, ON), 7. Jeremiah Rabideau (Glencoe, ON), 8. Scott Nagy (Strathroy, ON), 9. Jeremy Reid (Kerwood, ), 10. Stephen Richmond (Appin, ON), 11. Dan Bugg (London, ON), 12. Jens Peters (London, ON), 13. Jason Meyer (Courtland, ON), 14. Kris Lawrence (London, ON), 15. Matt Humphrys (St. Mars, ON), 16. Andrew Perkins (London, ON), 17. Brad Clark (Parkhill, ON), 18. John Ryan Fitzpatrick (Cambridge, ), 19. Darryn Wright (Watford, ON), 20. Don Dadson,
Heat 1:1. Scott O�Connor (London, ON), 2. John Ryan Fitzpatrick (Cambridge, ), 3. Jeremy Reid (Kerwood, ), 4. Jason Lidster (St. Thomas, ON), 5. Brad Clark (Parkhill, ON), 6. Jens Peters (London, ON), 7. Kris Lawrence (London, ON), 8. Jason Meyer (Courtland, ON), 9. Scott Nagy (Strathroy, ON),
Heat 2:1. Ray Morneau (Windsor, ON), 2. Andrew Perkins (London, ON), 3. , Silverthorne JR, 4. Dan Bugg (London, ON), 5. Stephen Richmond (Appin, ON), 6. Jeremiah Rabideau (Glencoe, ON), 7. Darrell Lake (London, ON), 8. Jim Mairs (London, ON), 9. Darryn Wright (Watford, ON), 10. Don Dadson, 11. Matt Humphrys (St. Mars, ON),
POINTS
APC Late Model 5/17/08
1. (88)Danny Delisle , 2. (83)Scott Lindsay , 3. (77)Steve Robblee , 4. (74)Ron Sheridan , 5. (74)Jamie Ramsay , 6. (74)D.J. Kennington , 7. (69)Bryan Mercer , 8. (69)Steven Matthews , 9. (67)Doug Stewart , 10. (67)Jesse Kennedy , 11. (66)Al Lebert , 12. (65)Scott Menlin , 13. (63)Duke Sawchuck , 14. (63)Tyler Brown , 15. (62)Chad Rijnen , 16. (61)Matt Box , 17. (61)Jesse Pontello , 18. (60)Kirk Hooker , 19. (60)Simon Wild , 20. (56)Rick Emery , 21. (55)Brandon Watson , 22. (54)James Shaw , 23. (53)Dion Verhoeven ,
Challenger Motor Freight Trucks 5/17/08
1. (166)Paul Fothergill , 2. (159)Jeff Showler , 3. (153)Chad Rijnen , 4. (152)Randy Thompson , 5. (150)Shawn Johns , 6. (147)Steve Lovie , 7. (146)Tom Zagorodny , 8. (140)Devon Bloemendal , 9. (140)Darrell Porter , 10. (134)John Walzack , 11. (133)Kathleen Hosang , 12. (131)Gary Adriaensen , 13. (130)Dennis McColl , 14. (127)Derek Clark , 15. (127)Justin Demello , 16. (125)Jordan Dupuis , 17. (59)Mike Arnold ,
Peterbilt Super Stock 5/17/08
1. (175)Ray Morneau , 2. (153)Darrell Lake , 3. (152)DJ De Jesus , 4. (144)Jeremy Reid , 5. (143)Brad Clark , 6. (141)Jason Meyer , 7. (141)Jason Lidster , 8. (140)Scott Nagy , 9. (138)Andrew Perkins , 10. (136)Stephen Richmond , 11. (133)Jeremiah Rabideau , 12. (129)Dan Bugg , 13. (128)Don Dadson , 14. (127)Jens Peters , 15. (122)Kris Lawrence , 16. (122)Matt Humphrys , 17. (116)Darryn Wright , 18. (83), Silverthorne JR , 19. (70)Jim Mairs , 20. (62)John Ryan Fitzpatrick , 21. (0)Bill Pearsall ,
From John Houghton // Announcer / PR // Delaware Speedway
London, Ontario // May 16, 2008
Weekly Racing (APC Late Model 5/16/08)
Feature:1. Danny Delisle (Lasalle, ON), 2. Scott Lindsay (St. Marys, ON), 3. Steve Robblee (Dorchester, ON), 4. Ron Sheridan (Mt. Brydges, ON), 5. D.J. Kennington (St. Thomas, ON), 6. Jamie Ramsay (St. Thomas, ON), 7. Steven Matthews (Newliskerd, ON), 8. Bryan Mercer (Port Hope, ON), 9. Doug Stewart (London, ON), 10. Al Lebert, 11. Scott Menlin (McComb, Mi), 12. Jesse Kennedy (Southwold, ON), 13. Tyler Brown (Waterdown, ON), 14. Chad Rijnen (London, ON), 15. Jesse Pontello (St. Catherines, ON), 16. Simon Wild (Ingersoll, ON), 17. Matt Box (Mississauga, ON), 18. Duke Sawchuck (Emeryville, ), 19. Kirk Hooker (Chatham, ON), 20. Rick Emery (Ruscom, ON), 21. Brandon Watson (Stayner, ON), 22. James Shaw, 23. Dion Verhoeven (Kerwood, ON),
Heat 1:1. Scott Lindsay (St. Marys, ON), 2. Danny Delisle (Lasalle, ON), 3. Kirk Hooker (Chatham, ON), 4. D.J. Kennington (St. Thomas, ON), 5. Steve Robblee (Dorchester, ON), 6. Ron Sheridan (Mt. Brydges, ON), 7. Tyler Brown (Waterdown, ON), 8. Brandon Watson (Stayner, ON), 9. Steven Matthews (Newliskerd, ON), 10. Al Lebert, 11. Jesse Pontello (St. Catherines, ON),
Heat 2:1. Duke Sawchuck (Emeryville, ), 2. Jamie Ramsay (St. Thomas, ON), 3. Jesse Kennedy (Southwold, ON), 4. Matt Box (Mississauga, ON), 5. Bryan Mercer (Port Hope, ON), 6. Chad Rijnen (London, ON), 7. Doug Stewart (London, ON), 8. Simon Wild (Ingersoll, ON), 9. Rick Emery (Ruscom, ON), 10. James Shaw, 11. Scott Menlin (McComb, Mi), 12. Dion Verhoeven (Kerwood, ON),
Weekly Racing (Challenger Motor Freight Trucks 5/16/08)
Feature:1. Paul Fothergill (London, ON), 2. Randy Thompson (Dorchester, ON), 3. Jeff Showler (Mt. Elgin, ON), 4. Tom Zagorodny (London, ON), 5. Steve Lovie (Dutton, ON), 6. Devon Bloemendal (Delaware, ON), 7. Shawn Johns (St. Marys, ON), 8. Darrell Porter (Dorchester, ON), 9. Dennis McColl (, ON), 10. Kathleen Hosang (Zurich, ON), 11. Derek Clark (Strathroy, ON), 12. Gary Adriaensen (London, ON), 13. John Walzack (London, ON), 14. Jordan Dupuis (Windsor, ON), 15. Chad Rijnen (Thamesford, ON), 16. Justin Demello (, ON), 17. Mike Arnold (London, ON),
Heat 1:1. Jeff Showler (Mt. Elgin, ON), 2. Chad Rijnen (Thamesford, ON), 3. Dennis McColl (, ON), 4. Tom Zagorodny (London, ON), 5. Randy Thompson (Dorchester, ON), 6. Derek Clark (Strathroy, ON), 7. John Walzack (London, ON), 8. Justin Demello (, ON), 9. Steve Lovie (Dutton, ON),
Heat 2:1. Darrell Porter (Dorchester, ON), 2. Devon Bloemendal (Delaware, ON), 3. Paul Fothergill (London, ON), 4. Kathleen Hosang (Zurich, ON), 5. Gary Adriaensen (London, ON), 6. Jordan Dupuis (Windsor, ON), 7. Mike Arnold (London, ON), 8. Shawn Johns (St. Marys, ON),
Weekly Racing (Peterbilt Super Stock 5/16/08)
Feature:1. Ray Morneau (Windsor, ON), 2. Scott O�Connor (London, ON), 3. , Silverthorne JR, 4. Jason Lidster (St. Thomas, ON), 5. Darrell Lake (London, ON), 6. Jim Mairs (London, ON), 7. Jeremiah Rabideau (Glencoe, ON), 8. Scott Nagy (Strathroy, ON), 9. Jeremy Reid (Kerwood, ), 10. Stephen Richmond (Appin, ON), 11. Dan Bugg (London, ON), 12. Jens Peters (London, ON), 13. Jason Meyer (Courtland, ON), 14. Kris Lawrence (London, ON), 15. Matt Humphrys (St. Mars, ON), 16. Andrew Perkins (London, ON), 17. Brad Clark (Parkhill, ON), 18. John Ryan Fitzpatrick (Cambridge, ), 19. Darryn Wright (Watford, ON), 20. Don Dadson,
Heat 1:1. Scott O�Connor (London, ON), 2. John Ryan Fitzpatrick (Cambridge, ), 3. Jeremy Reid (Kerwood, ), 4. Jason Lidster (St. Thomas, ON), 5. Brad Clark (Parkhill, ON), 6. Jens Peters (London, ON), 7. Kris Lawrence (London, ON), 8. Jason Meyer (Courtland, ON), 9. Scott Nagy (Strathroy, ON),
Heat 2:1. Ray Morneau (Windsor, ON), 2. Andrew Perkins (London, ON), 3. , Silverthorne JR, 4. Dan Bugg (London, ON), 5. Stephen Richmond (Appin, ON), 6. Jeremiah Rabideau (Glencoe, ON), 7. Darrell Lake (London, ON), 8. Jim Mairs (London, ON), 9. Darryn Wright (Watford, ON), 10. Don Dadson, 11. Matt Humphrys (St. Mars, ON),
POINTS
APC Late Model 5/17/08
1. (88)Danny Delisle , 2. (83)Scott Lindsay , 3. (77)Steve Robblee , 4. (74)Ron Sheridan , 5. (74)Jamie Ramsay , 6. (74)D.J. Kennington , 7. (69)Bryan Mercer , 8. (69)Steven Matthews , 9. (67)Doug Stewart , 10. (67)Jesse Kennedy , 11. (66)Al Lebert , 12. (65)Scott Menlin , 13. (63)Duke Sawchuck , 14. (63)Tyler Brown , 15. (62)Chad Rijnen , 16. (61)Matt Box , 17. (61)Jesse Pontello , 18. (60)Kirk Hooker , 19. (60)Simon Wild , 20. (56)Rick Emery , 21. (55)Brandon Watson , 22. (54)James Shaw , 23. (53)Dion Verhoeven ,
Challenger Motor Freight Trucks 5/17/08
1. (166)Paul Fothergill , 2. (159)Jeff Showler , 3. (153)Chad Rijnen , 4. (152)Randy Thompson , 5. (150)Shawn Johns , 6. (147)Steve Lovie , 7. (146)Tom Zagorodny , 8. (140)Devon Bloemendal , 9. (140)Darrell Porter , 10. (134)John Walzack , 11. (133)Kathleen Hosang , 12. (131)Gary Adriaensen , 13. (130)Dennis McColl , 14. (127)Derek Clark , 15. (127)Justin Demello , 16. (125)Jordan Dupuis , 17. (59)Mike Arnold ,
Peterbilt Super Stock 5/17/08
1. (175)Ray Morneau , 2. (153)Darrell Lake , 3. (152)DJ De Jesus , 4. (144)Jeremy Reid , 5. (143)Brad Clark , 6. (141)Jason Meyer , 7. (141)Jason Lidster , 8. (140)Scott Nagy , 9. (138)Andrew Perkins , 10. (136)Stephen Richmond , 11. (133)Jeremiah Rabideau , 12. (129)Dan Bugg , 13. (128)Don Dadson , 14. (127)Jens Peters , 15. (122)Kris Lawrence , 16. (122)Matt Humphrys , 17. (116)Darryn Wright , 18. (83), Silverthorne JR , 19. (70)Jim Mairs , 20. (62)John Ryan Fitzpatrick , 21. (0)Bill Pearsall ,
From John Houghton // Announcer / PR // Delaware Speedway
Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship: Mosport Report
Winners decided during closing laps in tough test of weather for opening event of 2008 Championship.
The Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship Presented by Toyo Tires kicked off the 2008 season with a tough test at Mosport International Raceway on May 17, 18, 2008. Competitors battled mechanical gremlins and changing weather throughout the weekend.
The battle began on a pre-weekend test day that saw five different competitors suffer with blown or malfunctioning engines which resulted in late evening swaps to backups. Some engines were even brought in from over fives hours away before the swap could happen.
Saturday's qualifying was run on a drying track in which competitors swapped fastest laps until the final moments. Andrew Wojteczko took top honours in Super Touring Class by less than one second over 2007 Champion Charles-Andre Bilodeau followed by Nigel Krikorian. Andre Rapone was fastest in Touring Class, also by less than one second followed by his brother Anthony Rapone and Nigel Heron.
In Saturday's heat race, Andrew Wojteczko bought it home comfortably first in Super Touring followed by Etienne Borgeat and Charles-Andre Bilodeau. Andre Rapone won in Touring Class with Christian Raymond second and Nigel Heron third.
Sunday's feature race was run in heavy rain which challenged the drivers' capabilities and mettle. Drivers battled poor visibility and a slippery track as they searched for the best grip possible. Nigel Krikorian brought his Subaru from tenth position to take the win in Super Touring Class by only three seconds over Andew Wojteczko in his Lexus. Arek Wojciechowski moved up from sixth to take the final podium position.
Nigel Heron was careful and patient and brought his Acura to the win in Touring Class followed by Christian Raymond in his Mazda and Andre Rapone in his Acura. All positions we won in the closing few laps. A rare error by 2007 Champion Charles-Andre Bilodeau resulted in his BMW sitting on top of the pit wall but he was not hurt. A number of other drivers slid off the track at different points in the race.
Scott Nicol started last in the feature race and gained 18 positions to finish fifth in Super Touring Class, a true accomplishment considering the conditions. His drive has won him the Hard Charger Award sponsored by CSC Racing Products Inc.
The Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship features Canada's Best Drivers Racing Today's Hottest Touring Cars.
From John Bondar // www.touringcar.ca
The Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship Presented by Toyo Tires kicked off the 2008 season with a tough test at Mosport International Raceway on May 17, 18, 2008. Competitors battled mechanical gremlins and changing weather throughout the weekend.
The battle began on a pre-weekend test day that saw five different competitors suffer with blown or malfunctioning engines which resulted in late evening swaps to backups. Some engines were even brought in from over fives hours away before the swap could happen.
Saturday's qualifying was run on a drying track in which competitors swapped fastest laps until the final moments. Andrew Wojteczko took top honours in Super Touring Class by less than one second over 2007 Champion Charles-Andre Bilodeau followed by Nigel Krikorian. Andre Rapone was fastest in Touring Class, also by less than one second followed by his brother Anthony Rapone and Nigel Heron.
In Saturday's heat race, Andrew Wojteczko bought it home comfortably first in Super Touring followed by Etienne Borgeat and Charles-Andre Bilodeau. Andre Rapone won in Touring Class with Christian Raymond second and Nigel Heron third.
Sunday's feature race was run in heavy rain which challenged the drivers' capabilities and mettle. Drivers battled poor visibility and a slippery track as they searched for the best grip possible. Nigel Krikorian brought his Subaru from tenth position to take the win in Super Touring Class by only three seconds over Andew Wojteczko in his Lexus. Arek Wojciechowski moved up from sixth to take the final podium position.
Nigel Heron was careful and patient and brought his Acura to the win in Touring Class followed by Christian Raymond in his Mazda and Andre Rapone in his Acura. All positions we won in the closing few laps. A rare error by 2007 Champion Charles-Andre Bilodeau resulted in his BMW sitting on top of the pit wall but he was not hurt. A number of other drivers slid off the track at different points in the race.
Scott Nicol started last in the feature race and gained 18 positions to finish fifth in Super Touring Class, a true accomplishment considering the conditions. His drive has won him the Hard Charger Award sponsored by CSC Racing Products Inc.
The Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship features Canada's Best Drivers Racing Today's Hottest Touring Cars.
From John Bondar // www.touringcar.ca
LUCAS OIL MODIFIED SHOOT OUT TAKES CENTER STAGE AT RANSOMVILLE SPEEDWAY
Ransomville, NY - Thursday, May 8th, 2008 - The Memorial Day holiday is just around the corner. What better way to kick off your weekend than at a local speedway? Ransomville Speedway to be exact.
The Lucas Oil Shoot-out Series for the Mighty Modifieds will take center stage on Friday, May 23rd. Invaders from across the border will battle local big R top shoes Todd Burley, Chad Brachmann, Scott Kerwin, and many more. In a twist unique to the Lucas Oil Series-the drivers goal is to accumulate the least amount of points. Drivers earn 1 point for a win on the Series, 2 for second place, 3 for third, etc.. Jeff McGinnis is the reigning Modified titleist having bested a total of 41 drivers in 2007.
Presented by DirtTrackDigest.com, Adam Ross had this to say about the series, "Once again local race fans saw some awesome events at each track. Local Dirt racing is what we're all about-we are exited again to see how it all enfolds...will there be a new champion again this year?"
"Steve Snowden of Lucas Oil is certainly dedicated to local racing," commented PR Director Tana Robinson. "We owe him and Lucas Oil a great deal for their continued support. The Lucas Oil Series is in its third year with many more expected."
Lucas Oil Products is one of the fastest growing additive lines in the consumer automotive industry featuring a premium line of oils, greases, and problem solving additives.
National Maintenance Contracting Corporation is the sponsor for the May 23rd Lucas Oil Shoot-out for the Modifieds. A full card of Original Pizza Logs Sportsman, and Ki-Po Chevrolet Streetstocks is slated in addition to a gigantic fireworks display. Gates open at 5 pm in the pit area, 6 in the grandstands with racing slated for 7:15. FREE Camping is offered!! For additional information call the speedway at 716-791-3602 or log onto www.ransomvillespeedway.com.
From Erica Bicknell
The Lucas Oil Shoot-out Series for the Mighty Modifieds will take center stage on Friday, May 23rd. Invaders from across the border will battle local big R top shoes Todd Burley, Chad Brachmann, Scott Kerwin, and many more. In a twist unique to the Lucas Oil Series-the drivers goal is to accumulate the least amount of points. Drivers earn 1 point for a win on the Series, 2 for second place, 3 for third, etc.. Jeff McGinnis is the reigning Modified titleist having bested a total of 41 drivers in 2007.
Presented by DirtTrackDigest.com, Adam Ross had this to say about the series, "Once again local race fans saw some awesome events at each track. Local Dirt racing is what we're all about-we are exited again to see how it all enfolds...will there be a new champion again this year?"
"Steve Snowden of Lucas Oil is certainly dedicated to local racing," commented PR Director Tana Robinson. "We owe him and Lucas Oil a great deal for their continued support. The Lucas Oil Series is in its third year with many more expected."
Lucas Oil Products is one of the fastest growing additive lines in the consumer automotive industry featuring a premium line of oils, greases, and problem solving additives.
National Maintenance Contracting Corporation is the sponsor for the May 23rd Lucas Oil Shoot-out for the Modifieds. A full card of Original Pizza Logs Sportsman, and Ki-Po Chevrolet Streetstocks is slated in addition to a gigantic fireworks display. Gates open at 5 pm in the pit area, 6 in the grandstands with racing slated for 7:15. FREE Camping is offered!! For additional information call the speedway at 716-791-3602 or log onto www.ransomvillespeedway.com.
From Erica Bicknell
Merrittville Speedway: Report / Results May 18, 2008
For Release - Sunday May 18, 2008 - From Jim Irvine - Merrittville Speedway Public Relations
THOROLD, ON (May 18) Meridian Credit Union Rankin Cancer Run Night fans may have been chilled by the unseasonably cool May Night at Merrittville Speedway but they had to be thrilled by the racing action Saturday May 17th.
Defending Champions Chad Chevalier (Original Pizza Logs Sportsman) and Rob Murray (Hoosier Stock) both earned their first 2008 Feature Wins. Both drivers were the third different winners in each division to date as well.
Shawn Sliter and Ron Cosco were also first time winners in the Lucas Oil Open Wheel Lite and Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder Divisions – both were the second different winner for their respective classes also.
The 5th new winner was Steve Dixon who came home the winner of the Season Opener for the BRP Can Am Late Model Tour. Chevalier, who won 2 features last season en route to his first title – only led 2 laps of the 25 lap Sportsmen Feature for his initial visit to Victory Lane in 2008.
At the drop of the green, outside pole sitter Graham MacKay outduelled pole sitter Jim Johnstone to take top spot in the early going. MacKay would set the pace until Johnstone reclaimed top spot on lap 9.
At the halfway point Johnstone opened up a lead of some 5 car lengths before a lap 16 caution slowed the field. Twice more Johnston's patience would be tested but on each restart he was able to pull away. Joe Middlemiss and Chevalier broke away from the pack in the later stages with Chevalier over-taking Middlemiss before a final caution on lap 22.
With starter Doug Leonard's White Flag waving signaling the final lap, Chevalier had the slightest of leads over Johnstone and in the final time around the d-shaped oval was able to stretch it to a car length.
Johnstone settled for second with a hard charging Mark D'Ilario taking third. Middlemiss wound up 4th with Mark Chiddy rounding out the top 5.
Similar to the Sportsmen Main, the outside pole-sitter grabbed the lead at the start of the 20 lap Hoosier Stock Feature.
Kirk Wilson beat Rich Champigny to the green flag with Rob Murray over top spot around the half-way point. Murray had control until two former Kart racers turned Stock Car drivers surged to the front.
Shayne Pierce stole top spot on laps 18 and 19 with Murray taking it back after the leaders came together. At the checkers, Cody McPherson also got by Pierce for who has to settle for second. Barry Blanchard and Dolph McCready closed out the top 5.
Rick Brubacher had to wait almost a month to use his pole starting spot earned back on April 19th's Time Trial Session – and it was the St. Clements' native who was out front at the start of the 20 lap Lucas Oil Open Wheel Lite Feature.
Adam Leslie was also locked in to the front row but was only able to hold that spot for one lap. Shawn Sliter took control of the runner up spot on lap 2 and by lap 6 also overtook Brubacher.
Sliter immediately ran away to a huge lead and after an early caution resumed control before the event was red flagged on lap 14 after former champion Wally Billing – flipped his car in turn 3.
There was no stopping Sliter as when racing resumed he again set the pace until a lap 18 caution slowed the pace.
Sliter was unchallenged in the two lap dash to the finish for his first win of the season – an early wedding anniversary present for his wife Lenie. The couple's 11th Wedding Anniversary is Sunday.
Brubacher and Leslie settled for second and third with Jamie Gilbert and Adam Murphy 4th and 5th.
The Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder 15 lap Feature saw Ed McLean in control at the start before an early caution saw defending champion Abel Castelein stranded for the second time of the young season in turn 4.
On the restart Ron Cosco took control of top spot until a red flag for AJ Castelein who came to a stop in turn 4 similar to his dad earlier.
Cosco again set the pace but not without strong challenges from Trevor Goulding. Goulding appeared to be better through the turns but Cosco pulled away down the straight-aways.
Goulding made one last challenge on the final lap – pulling alongside the leader on the backstretch. Out of turn 4 the two leaders came up on a lap car forcing Goulding to the apron and losing momentum.
Garnet Wilson was third while early leader McLean settled for 4th. Rob Goulding was 5th.
In post race technical inspection, Cosco's car was found to have illegal offset wheels and was fined half of his points and purse winnings.
Tim Schram was first to lead the 30 lap BRP Can Am Late Model Main Event with two cautions slowing the field in the early going. On the move however was Pete Bicknell in the Paul Grigsby-owned #24.
From a 7th starting spot, Bicknell was soon in the runner-up spot after 2008 Rookie Kyle Inman had made an impressive first outing.
Coming out of turn 4 to complete lap 9, Bicknell ducked inside in an attempt to take the lead and while Schram was trying to hold him off – Steve Dixon stormed into the lead around the pair at the start-finish line.
A number of cautions slowed Dixon who ran the extreme high side of the track to comfortable leads on Bicknell in green flag runs.
"It was real fast … and lots of fun," said Dixon, "I'd planned at the start to run the bottom … I made some passes high and found how good it was and stayed there."
Bicknell ran a number of laps around the bottom but soon joined Dixon running the high groove.
"I really wasn't thinking I'd be up front," revealed Bicknell, "the Grigsbys gave me such a good piece … I wasn't quite comfortable with the throttle … an adjustment may have made it better … all in all a good night."
Late in the race it was looking like a real good night for the Grigsbys until car owner Paul Grigsby made heavy contact with the front-stretch wall after contact with another car on lap 24.
Dixon and Bicknell were followed by Jon Rivers, Schram and Mikey Wonderling.
Merrittville Speedway Results – Saturday May 17, 2008
Meridian Credit Union Rankin Cancer Run Night
Original Pizza Logs Sportsman Feature – 25 laps
Chad Chevalier, Jim Johnstone, Mark D'Ilario, Joe Middlemiss, Mark Chiddy, Tyler McPherson, Justin Sharp, Darren Zumpe, Mike Bowman, Brad Rouse, Mat Williamson, Luke Carleton, Darrell Farraway, Graham Mackay, Don Spiece, Mark Dixon, Robbie Rounce, James Friesen, Brandon Easey, BJ Willard, Rick Bellante, Rob Knapp, Ken Winnfield, Kevin Sharpe. DNQ – Ron MacAuley, Norm Mark, Tony Cowal, Dave Flannigan, Gary Klutt.
Original Pizza Logs Sportsman Heat Winners – First – Jim Johnstone, Second – Mark Chiddy, Third – Robbie Rounce.
Original Pizza Logs Sportsman B Main Winner – Tyler McPherson.
Hoosier Stock Feature – 15 laps
Rob Murray, Cody McPherson, Shayne Pierce, Barry Blanchard, Dolph McCready, Rick Beales, Kevin Knapp, Billy Hogue, Dave Small, Jason Fontaine, Ron Kingsbury, Vince Fargnoli, Rob Disher, Russ Davidson, Mark Fawcett, Billy Bleich, Rich Champigny, Ron Loggie, Driver Car #2, Kevin Kocarik, Kirk Wilson, Michael Bosse, Mike Dooley, Brent Begolo. DNQ – Adam Gracey, Jack Myers, Driver Car # 2S, Driver Car # 29.
Hoosier Stock Heat Winners – First – Vince Fargnoli, Second – Kevin Knapp, Third – Kirk Wilson.
Hoosier Stock B Main Winner – Billy Hogue
Lucas Oil Open Wheel Lite Feature – 25 laps
Shawn Sliter, Rick Brubacher, Adam Leslie, Jamie Gilbert, Adam Murphy, Josh Sliter, Kory Howe, Scott Billing, Kellie Mason, Jason Corless, Derek Bredin, Greg Mills, Dale Leonard, Wayne Robins, Wally Billing, Bob Bredin, Scott Phillips.
5 Star Racing Products Lucky Dog Winner – Josh Sliter
Lucas Oil Open Wheel Lite Heat Winners – First Shawn Sliter, Second – Scott Billing.
Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder Feature – 15 laps
Ron Cosco, Trevor Goulding, Garnet Wilson, Ed McLean, Rob Overholt, Evan Curtis, Tony Kelly, Abel Castelein, Bob Gill, Rocco Conte, David Lopes, Mike Giberson, Roger Gilbert, Chris Laskey, Jocelynne Wiley, Rick Grundy, Damian Gore, Matt Deschamps, Terry Larmet, A.J. Castelein, Mike Peterson. DNS – Rob Overholt.
Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder Heat Winners – First – Trevor Goulding, Second – Ed McLean.
THOROLD, ON (May 18) Meridian Credit Union Rankin Cancer Run Night fans may have been chilled by the unseasonably cool May Night at Merrittville Speedway but they had to be thrilled by the racing action Saturday May 17th.
Defending Champions Chad Chevalier (Original Pizza Logs Sportsman) and Rob Murray (Hoosier Stock) both earned their first 2008 Feature Wins. Both drivers were the third different winners in each division to date as well.
Shawn Sliter and Ron Cosco were also first time winners in the Lucas Oil Open Wheel Lite and Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder Divisions – both were the second different winner for their respective classes also.
The 5th new winner was Steve Dixon who came home the winner of the Season Opener for the BRP Can Am Late Model Tour. Chevalier, who won 2 features last season en route to his first title – only led 2 laps of the 25 lap Sportsmen Feature for his initial visit to Victory Lane in 2008.
At the drop of the green, outside pole sitter Graham MacKay outduelled pole sitter Jim Johnstone to take top spot in the early going. MacKay would set the pace until Johnstone reclaimed top spot on lap 9.
At the halfway point Johnstone opened up a lead of some 5 car lengths before a lap 16 caution slowed the field. Twice more Johnston's patience would be tested but on each restart he was able to pull away. Joe Middlemiss and Chevalier broke away from the pack in the later stages with Chevalier over-taking Middlemiss before a final caution on lap 22.
With starter Doug Leonard's White Flag waving signaling the final lap, Chevalier had the slightest of leads over Johnstone and in the final time around the d-shaped oval was able to stretch it to a car length.
Johnstone settled for second with a hard charging Mark D'Ilario taking third. Middlemiss wound up 4th with Mark Chiddy rounding out the top 5.
Similar to the Sportsmen Main, the outside pole-sitter grabbed the lead at the start of the 20 lap Hoosier Stock Feature.
Kirk Wilson beat Rich Champigny to the green flag with Rob Murray over top spot around the half-way point. Murray had control until two former Kart racers turned Stock Car drivers surged to the front.
Shayne Pierce stole top spot on laps 18 and 19 with Murray taking it back after the leaders came together. At the checkers, Cody McPherson also got by Pierce for who has to settle for second. Barry Blanchard and Dolph McCready closed out the top 5.
Rick Brubacher had to wait almost a month to use his pole starting spot earned back on April 19th's Time Trial Session – and it was the St. Clements' native who was out front at the start of the 20 lap Lucas Oil Open Wheel Lite Feature.
Adam Leslie was also locked in to the front row but was only able to hold that spot for one lap. Shawn Sliter took control of the runner up spot on lap 2 and by lap 6 also overtook Brubacher.
Sliter immediately ran away to a huge lead and after an early caution resumed control before the event was red flagged on lap 14 after former champion Wally Billing – flipped his car in turn 3.
There was no stopping Sliter as when racing resumed he again set the pace until a lap 18 caution slowed the pace.
Sliter was unchallenged in the two lap dash to the finish for his first win of the season – an early wedding anniversary present for his wife Lenie. The couple's 11th Wedding Anniversary is Sunday.
Brubacher and Leslie settled for second and third with Jamie Gilbert and Adam Murphy 4th and 5th.
The Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder 15 lap Feature saw Ed McLean in control at the start before an early caution saw defending champion Abel Castelein stranded for the second time of the young season in turn 4.
On the restart Ron Cosco took control of top spot until a red flag for AJ Castelein who came to a stop in turn 4 similar to his dad earlier.
Cosco again set the pace but not without strong challenges from Trevor Goulding. Goulding appeared to be better through the turns but Cosco pulled away down the straight-aways.
Goulding made one last challenge on the final lap – pulling alongside the leader on the backstretch. Out of turn 4 the two leaders came up on a lap car forcing Goulding to the apron and losing momentum.
Garnet Wilson was third while early leader McLean settled for 4th. Rob Goulding was 5th.
In post race technical inspection, Cosco's car was found to have illegal offset wheels and was fined half of his points and purse winnings.
Tim Schram was first to lead the 30 lap BRP Can Am Late Model Main Event with two cautions slowing the field in the early going. On the move however was Pete Bicknell in the Paul Grigsby-owned #24.
From a 7th starting spot, Bicknell was soon in the runner-up spot after 2008 Rookie Kyle Inman had made an impressive first outing.
Coming out of turn 4 to complete lap 9, Bicknell ducked inside in an attempt to take the lead and while Schram was trying to hold him off – Steve Dixon stormed into the lead around the pair at the start-finish line.
A number of cautions slowed Dixon who ran the extreme high side of the track to comfortable leads on Bicknell in green flag runs.
"It was real fast … and lots of fun," said Dixon, "I'd planned at the start to run the bottom … I made some passes high and found how good it was and stayed there."
Bicknell ran a number of laps around the bottom but soon joined Dixon running the high groove.
"I really wasn't thinking I'd be up front," revealed Bicknell, "the Grigsbys gave me such a good piece … I wasn't quite comfortable with the throttle … an adjustment may have made it better … all in all a good night."
Late in the race it was looking like a real good night for the Grigsbys until car owner Paul Grigsby made heavy contact with the front-stretch wall after contact with another car on lap 24.
Dixon and Bicknell were followed by Jon Rivers, Schram and Mikey Wonderling.
Merrittville Speedway Results – Saturday May 17, 2008
Meridian Credit Union Rankin Cancer Run Night
Original Pizza Logs Sportsman Feature – 25 laps
Chad Chevalier, Jim Johnstone, Mark D'Ilario, Joe Middlemiss, Mark Chiddy, Tyler McPherson, Justin Sharp, Darren Zumpe, Mike Bowman, Brad Rouse, Mat Williamson, Luke Carleton, Darrell Farraway, Graham Mackay, Don Spiece, Mark Dixon, Robbie Rounce, James Friesen, Brandon Easey, BJ Willard, Rick Bellante, Rob Knapp, Ken Winnfield, Kevin Sharpe. DNQ – Ron MacAuley, Norm Mark, Tony Cowal, Dave Flannigan, Gary Klutt.
Original Pizza Logs Sportsman Heat Winners – First – Jim Johnstone, Second – Mark Chiddy, Third – Robbie Rounce.
Original Pizza Logs Sportsman B Main Winner – Tyler McPherson.
Hoosier Stock Feature – 15 laps
Rob Murray, Cody McPherson, Shayne Pierce, Barry Blanchard, Dolph McCready, Rick Beales, Kevin Knapp, Billy Hogue, Dave Small, Jason Fontaine, Ron Kingsbury, Vince Fargnoli, Rob Disher, Russ Davidson, Mark Fawcett, Billy Bleich, Rich Champigny, Ron Loggie, Driver Car #2, Kevin Kocarik, Kirk Wilson, Michael Bosse, Mike Dooley, Brent Begolo. DNQ – Adam Gracey, Jack Myers, Driver Car # 2S, Driver Car # 29.
Hoosier Stock Heat Winners – First – Vince Fargnoli, Second – Kevin Knapp, Third – Kirk Wilson.
Hoosier Stock B Main Winner – Billy Hogue
Lucas Oil Open Wheel Lite Feature – 25 laps
Shawn Sliter, Rick Brubacher, Adam Leslie, Jamie Gilbert, Adam Murphy, Josh Sliter, Kory Howe, Scott Billing, Kellie Mason, Jason Corless, Derek Bredin, Greg Mills, Dale Leonard, Wayne Robins, Wally Billing, Bob Bredin, Scott Phillips.
5 Star Racing Products Lucky Dog Winner – Josh Sliter
Lucas Oil Open Wheel Lite Heat Winners – First Shawn Sliter, Second – Scott Billing.
Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder Feature – 15 laps
Ron Cosco, Trevor Goulding, Garnet Wilson, Ed McLean, Rob Overholt, Evan Curtis, Tony Kelly, Abel Castelein, Bob Gill, Rocco Conte, David Lopes, Mike Giberson, Roger Gilbert, Chris Laskey, Jocelynne Wiley, Rick Grundy, Damian Gore, Matt Deschamps, Terry Larmet, A.J. Castelein, Mike Peterson. DNS – Rob Overholt.
Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder Heat Winners – First – Trevor Goulding, Second – Ed McLean.
Cornwall Motor Speedway: Laurent Ladouceur and Gerry Oszczakiewicz win before the rain starts
CORNWALL, On - Sunday May 18, 2008 - It was opening at Cornwall with twin 25 laps for Modifieds and a complete race program for the other classes on Minute Auto Wash night. Fans and Drivers were anxious to get the 2008 season started.
Eric Gauvreau took the lead in first of two 25-lap modified features over Stéphane Lafrance and Brian McDonald as the caution came out on lap 7 for Delbert Legrow. These first laps went very fast. Gauvreau was able to get the lead back on the lead when the red came on the track for Roy Tarbell who went on the roof in turn 3 as he got together with Chris King. Tarbell was ok.
Gauvreau got a good start over McDonald when Marc Therrien stopped with a flat on lap 9. Gauvreau kept the lead on Mcdonald but he was right with him when Mcdonald went to the pits with now Ladouceur in second spot and Stéphane Lafrance in third. Ladouceur was getting close to Gauvreau with 8 to go. Ladouceur took the lead on lap 18 when he passed Gauvreau in the traffic. Ladouceur pulled away from Gauvreau when the red came out or the second time when the fire came in Gage Morin`s car. Because of the heavy rain, the official decided to call this feature done at 23 laps with Laurent Ladouceur being the winner, Eric Gauvreau in second, Stéphane Lafrance in third, Perry Francis and Kyle Dingwall completing the top 5. Eric Gauvreau, Stéphane Lafrance and Delbert Legrow won the heats
Gerry Oszczakiewicz led the 12-car rookie field as he took the lead over Jean-Marc Larose on the initial start. At the halfway point Gerry O had a comfortable lead over Larose and Pierre Robidoux as they were good battles in the back of the field. Gerry O led all 12 laps to win his first feature of the year over Jean-Marc Larose and Pierre Robidoux. The feature went without any cautions. Jean-Marc Larose and Gerry O won the heats
After 2 features in, the track officials decided to call the night off because the track was now too wet because of the rain falling. It will be double features for Pro-Stock, Semi-Pro and the second 25-lap modified feature plus the complete race program presented by Paul`s Auto Body. It will be a great show with 7 features on the card!
Modified Feature Results (23 laps): Laurent Ladouceur, Eric Gauvreau, Stéphane Lafrance, Perry Francis, Kyle Dingwall, Carey Terrance, Lance Willix, John Lazore, Clément Therrien, Mitch Jock, Clayton Benedict, Kyle Jacobs, Joel Doiron, Yves Arsenault, Mark Hitchcock, Gage Morin, Gage Morin, Marc Therrien, Billy Cook, Brian McDonald, Roy Tarbell, Delbert Legrow, Mark Smoke, Martin Gagné, Roy Delormier, Ron Valade
Rookie Feature Results (12 laps) : Gerry Oszczakiewicz, Jean-Marc Larose, Pierre Robidoux, Eli Gilbert, Bob Ray, Marc Usereau, Mike Gaucher, Sébastien Chabot, Chris James, Kevin Dejong, Jessie Thompson, Andrew Russell
By Martin Bélanger
Eric Gauvreau took the lead in first of two 25-lap modified features over Stéphane Lafrance and Brian McDonald as the caution came out on lap 7 for Delbert Legrow. These first laps went very fast. Gauvreau was able to get the lead back on the lead when the red came on the track for Roy Tarbell who went on the roof in turn 3 as he got together with Chris King. Tarbell was ok.
Gauvreau got a good start over McDonald when Marc Therrien stopped with a flat on lap 9. Gauvreau kept the lead on Mcdonald but he was right with him when Mcdonald went to the pits with now Ladouceur in second spot and Stéphane Lafrance in third. Ladouceur was getting close to Gauvreau with 8 to go. Ladouceur took the lead on lap 18 when he passed Gauvreau in the traffic. Ladouceur pulled away from Gauvreau when the red came out or the second time when the fire came in Gage Morin`s car. Because of the heavy rain, the official decided to call this feature done at 23 laps with Laurent Ladouceur being the winner, Eric Gauvreau in second, Stéphane Lafrance in third, Perry Francis and Kyle Dingwall completing the top 5. Eric Gauvreau, Stéphane Lafrance and Delbert Legrow won the heats
Gerry Oszczakiewicz led the 12-car rookie field as he took the lead over Jean-Marc Larose on the initial start. At the halfway point Gerry O had a comfortable lead over Larose and Pierre Robidoux as they were good battles in the back of the field. Gerry O led all 12 laps to win his first feature of the year over Jean-Marc Larose and Pierre Robidoux. The feature went without any cautions. Jean-Marc Larose and Gerry O won the heats
After 2 features in, the track officials decided to call the night off because the track was now too wet because of the rain falling. It will be double features for Pro-Stock, Semi-Pro and the second 25-lap modified feature plus the complete race program presented by Paul`s Auto Body. It will be a great show with 7 features on the card!
Modified Feature Results (23 laps): Laurent Ladouceur, Eric Gauvreau, Stéphane Lafrance, Perry Francis, Kyle Dingwall, Carey Terrance, Lance Willix, John Lazore, Clément Therrien, Mitch Jock, Clayton Benedict, Kyle Jacobs, Joel Doiron, Yves Arsenault, Mark Hitchcock, Gage Morin, Gage Morin, Marc Therrien, Billy Cook, Brian McDonald, Roy Tarbell, Delbert Legrow, Mark Smoke, Martin Gagné, Roy Delormier, Ron Valade
Rookie Feature Results (12 laps) : Gerry Oszczakiewicz, Jean-Marc Larose, Pierre Robidoux, Eli Gilbert, Bob Ray, Marc Usereau, Mike Gaucher, Sébastien Chabot, Chris James, Kevin Dejong, Jessie Thompson, Andrew Russell
By Martin Bélanger
Sunset Speedway: May 17, 2008 Race Report
KRISTI WOLFE DEDICATES WIN TO HER FATHER
STROUD, ON - On May 17th under beautiful but cool evening week 2 played out at the fastest 1/3 oval in Ontario known as Sunset Speedway. We had new cars and there will be new cars every week as we were up to 91 cars and the show was tremendous with hard, fast short tracks racing with no prisoners taken.
The big winners on the night were #19 Jason Witty in the HF Smith Home Hardware Late Models, #25 Kristi Wolfe a very popular win in the Domino's Pizza Thunder Cars, # 10 Doug Butler in the Fox's Bakery and Deli 4 Cylinder road Runners, and #35 Myles Jamieson in very exciting 3 car dash to the checkered flag to take the Fox's Four Funs. It was a very emotional victory for Kristi Wolfe and her family as she led flag to flag and the victory was dedicated to her late father John who passed away last November and was clearly the driving force to her racing carer. Congratulations to Kristi, her family and crew on a great and deserving win.
HF SMITH HOME HARDWARE LATE MODELS
As the late models rolled onto the track it promised to be a great feature if the heats were any indication as they raced hard and determined not giving an inch to the competition. On the drop of the green flag # 19 Jason Witty grabbed the point with # 1 Quick Vic Parsons, # 14 Jamie Horner, # 55 Bruce Rankin and # 6 Keith Maiato were the top 5. By lap 5 we had a change in the fast 5 as Witty was still the point man followed closely by Parsons with # 57 Ron Quesnelle, # 47 Tom Walters and Rankin looking for any hole to move up.
The racing was fast and furious with paint being traded on each turn of the track and finally the first yellow appeared on lap 10 as Parsons and Walters made contact and both were summoned to the rear. At the halfway point Witty still paced the field while Quesnelle had moved to the back bumper of Witty looking for any opportunity to pass while in behind Maiato, # 11 Chris Morrow and # 45 Rob Poole were the fast 5. On lap 21 the yellow appeared as Poole and Morrow get together after waging a tremendous battle for 11 laps each taking turns trading positions and both put to the back.
On lap 23 Horner hits the wall hard after making contact with the #05 machine of Brian Davis she limped to the pits looking done for the night but some repairs and back out she came that's a sign of a future great racer never give up you never know! On the restart Witty was still on the point while all the action was in behind him and don't look now but the orange blurr # 47 has moved into the 3 rd spot taking dead aim at Quesnelle for the runner up spot while Maiato and # 40 Charlie Gallant were the top 5 with Parsons and Morrow in sight.
As the laps were winding down Quesnelle and Walters were in a dog fight for second place as they motored down the back shoot Walters tried to get under Quesnelle but neither gave an inch with Quesnelle making a 360 in turn 3 causing a yellow the result both summoned to the rear. As they exited turn 4 to take the checkered flag from Starter Rob Witty managed to hold of the field to take a green to checkered victory while the fast 5 were Gallant, Morrow, Maiato and Parsons. The heat winners were Maiato, Witty, Walters and Morrow.
Congratulations to Jason and the crew on a great win let's hope this is what ' 08 will be like as ' 07 was a nightmare for the 19 car. The feature was an old school race a blast from the past as no one was giving an inch, paint being traded and just good hard short track racing it was fun to watch and promises to be a great season in the ever exciting late model division.
THE DOMINO'S PIZZA THUNDER CARS
There were 18 thunder cars ready to tame the 1/3 mile oval that can be tough to tame and they have battled hard all night long and we should have a great race. On the drop of the green #25 Kristi Wolfe was the leader while #45 Steve Slaughter, # 23 Tammy Milligan, # 69 Rob Skyler and # 36 Chuck Anderson the top 5. They stayed in that order until lap 11 when the first yellow appeared as # 84 Ken Weisbrod and # 57 Steve Lang get together and both done for the night. At the half way point Wolfe still paced the field while in behind Slaughter, Skyler, Milligan and K13 Donnie Beattie were scratching for every inch of the track.
With 5 laps to go Wolfe was still the lead car Skyler finally passed Slaughter and was in hot pursuit of the leader while Milligan was trying to hold off a wild pack of cars including Beattie, # 88 Herb Walters and # 51 Mark Adams. As they made the turn for home for the checkered flag Wolfe holds on for the win while in behind there was a mad dash for position Skyler, Slaughter, Adams and Beattie were the fast 5. If that is any indication of the racing the thunder car class is wide open and anyone can win on any given night. The heat winners were # 58 Stan Coe, Adams, Weisbrod and Beattie. Once again congratulations to Kristi and her family and crew for a great victory that John would have been proud to witness and the Sunset family really misses his smiling face around the pit area but I sure he was turning each lap with you Kristi nice job.
THE FOX'S BAKERY & DELI 4 CYLINDER ROAD RUNNERS
There were 22, 4 cylinders to claim victory on this night a feat not easily accomplished as this field is very deep. On the drop of the green # 10 Doug Butler grabbed the early lead with # 42 Harold Noseworthy, # 78 Jason Martin, # 8 Rob Gibson and # 28 Jim Sutter the top 5. At the halfway point the fast 5 were Butler, Noseworthy, Gibson, # 63 Dave Burrows and # 54 Joe Ireton. As they raced to the checkered flag the top 5 were Butler, Noseworthy, Gibson, # 14 Ken Britt and D. Burrows as Burrows actually finished 3rd but was penalized for passing under the yellow line and lost 2 spots. The heat winners were Ireton, Dave Burrows 2 and Britt. Congratulations to Doug and his crew on a great win and all the 4 cylinder drivers on putting on a great show for the second week and promises to be a great ' 08 season. We would like to congratulate last week's feature winner Colt Carcone as Colt and his wife are the proud parents of a baby girl a future 4 cylinder driver.
THE FOX'S FOUR FUNS
The four funs were 32 strong and growing each week and they put on a great show each and every week. On the drop of the green # 15 Bob Mercer grabbed the point while in behind # 29 Rob Gibson Sr., # 3 Fredrick Lacroix, # 77 Frank Kee and # 18 Rick Drinkwater were the fast 5. By the halfway point Gibson was the leader followed by Lacroix, # 9 Marshall Pender, # 35 Myles Jamieson and # 6 Terry Woodley and it stayed that way until 5 laps were left. With 5 laps to go and lapped traffic coming into play Jamieson wrestled the lead from Gibson and along with him came Pender and Woodley and as they received the checkered flag from Rob the top 5 were Jamieson, Pender, Woodley, Gibson and Lacroix. The heat winners were Woodley 2, Jamieson and Pender. Congratulations to Myles and his crew on a fantastic feature win with many more to come I am sure.
Finally we had our first Jalopy figure 8 race of 2008 and it did not disappoint as we had 7 cars and the fans were thoroughly entertained as they were on their feet the entire race that was won on a last lap pass by # 18 Rick Drinkwater make sure you are in attendance on May 31st as round 2 of the Jalopy figure 8 race takes place.
Once again that was why the place to be on Saturday night for great short track racing is the best track in Ontario Sunset Speedway. The racing was great , the show moved along quickly and a great car count 91 in total and make sure that make it out next week remember we start at 7pm and we will have our 4 regular classes, spectator races and the ever popular school bus races.
SUNSET SPEEDWAY
Innisfil, Ontario // RESULTS: May 17, 2008
LATE MODELS: 1. # 19 Jason Witty, 2. # 40 Charlie Gallant, 3. # 11 Chris Morrow, 4. # 6 Keith Maiato, 5. #1 Vic Parsons, 6. # 45 Rob Poole, 7. # 03 Dario Capirchio, 8. # 2 Dan Robinson, 9. # 55 Bruce Rankin, 10. # 57 Ron Quesnelle HEAT WINS: Maiato, Witty, Walters, Morrow
THUNDER CARS: 1. # 25 Kristi Wolfe, 2. # 69 Rob Skyler, 3. # 45 Steve Slaughter Jr., 4. # 51 Mark Adams, 5. # K13 Don Beattie, 6. # 88 Herb Walters, 7. # 23 Tammy Milligan, 8. # 36 Chuck Anderson, 9. # 97 Roy Anderson, 10. # 58 Stan Coe HEAT WINS: Coe, Adams, # 84 Ken Weisbrod, Beattie
4 CYLINDER ROAD RUNNERS: 1. # 10 Doug Butler, 2. # 42 Harold Noseworthy, 3. # 8 Rob Gibson 4. # 14 Ken Britt, 5. # 63 Dave Burrows, 6. # 54 Joe Ireton, 7. # 64 Beau Burrows, 8. # 28 Mike Weeda, 9. # 78 Jason Martin, 10. # 50 John Kaszab HEAT WINS: Dave Burrows 2, Ireton, Britt
4 FUNS: 1. # 35 Myles Jamieson, 2. # 9 Marshall Pender, 3. # 6 Terry Woodley, 4. # 29 Rob Gibson Sr., 5. # 3 Francois Lacroix, 6. # 4 Mark Kehoe, 7. # 18 Rick Drinkwater, 8. # 52 Jason Brown, 9. # 69 Trevor Martin, 10. # 79 Nicole Podewils HEAT WINS: Woodley 2, Jamieson, Pender
From Brian Watt // Sunset Speedway
STROUD, ON - On May 17th under beautiful but cool evening week 2 played out at the fastest 1/3 oval in Ontario known as Sunset Speedway. We had new cars and there will be new cars every week as we were up to 91 cars and the show was tremendous with hard, fast short tracks racing with no prisoners taken.
The big winners on the night were #19 Jason Witty in the HF Smith Home Hardware Late Models, #25 Kristi Wolfe a very popular win in the Domino's Pizza Thunder Cars, # 10 Doug Butler in the Fox's Bakery and Deli 4 Cylinder road Runners, and #35 Myles Jamieson in very exciting 3 car dash to the checkered flag to take the Fox's Four Funs. It was a very emotional victory for Kristi Wolfe and her family as she led flag to flag and the victory was dedicated to her late father John who passed away last November and was clearly the driving force to her racing carer. Congratulations to Kristi, her family and crew on a great and deserving win.
HF SMITH HOME HARDWARE LATE MODELS
As the late models rolled onto the track it promised to be a great feature if the heats were any indication as they raced hard and determined not giving an inch to the competition. On the drop of the green flag # 19 Jason Witty grabbed the point with # 1 Quick Vic Parsons, # 14 Jamie Horner, # 55 Bruce Rankin and # 6 Keith Maiato were the top 5. By lap 5 we had a change in the fast 5 as Witty was still the point man followed closely by Parsons with # 57 Ron Quesnelle, # 47 Tom Walters and Rankin looking for any hole to move up.
The racing was fast and furious with paint being traded on each turn of the track and finally the first yellow appeared on lap 10 as Parsons and Walters made contact and both were summoned to the rear. At the halfway point Witty still paced the field while Quesnelle had moved to the back bumper of Witty looking for any opportunity to pass while in behind Maiato, # 11 Chris Morrow and # 45 Rob Poole were the fast 5. On lap 21 the yellow appeared as Poole and Morrow get together after waging a tremendous battle for 11 laps each taking turns trading positions and both put to the back.
On lap 23 Horner hits the wall hard after making contact with the #05 machine of Brian Davis she limped to the pits looking done for the night but some repairs and back out she came that's a sign of a future great racer never give up you never know! On the restart Witty was still on the point while all the action was in behind him and don't look now but the orange blurr # 47 has moved into the 3 rd spot taking dead aim at Quesnelle for the runner up spot while Maiato and # 40 Charlie Gallant were the top 5 with Parsons and Morrow in sight.
As the laps were winding down Quesnelle and Walters were in a dog fight for second place as they motored down the back shoot Walters tried to get under Quesnelle but neither gave an inch with Quesnelle making a 360 in turn 3 causing a yellow the result both summoned to the rear. As they exited turn 4 to take the checkered flag from Starter Rob Witty managed to hold of the field to take a green to checkered victory while the fast 5 were Gallant, Morrow, Maiato and Parsons. The heat winners were Maiato, Witty, Walters and Morrow.
Congratulations to Jason and the crew on a great win let's hope this is what ' 08 will be like as ' 07 was a nightmare for the 19 car. The feature was an old school race a blast from the past as no one was giving an inch, paint being traded and just good hard short track racing it was fun to watch and promises to be a great season in the ever exciting late model division.
THE DOMINO'S PIZZA THUNDER CARS
There were 18 thunder cars ready to tame the 1/3 mile oval that can be tough to tame and they have battled hard all night long and we should have a great race. On the drop of the green #25 Kristi Wolfe was the leader while #45 Steve Slaughter, # 23 Tammy Milligan, # 69 Rob Skyler and # 36 Chuck Anderson the top 5. They stayed in that order until lap 11 when the first yellow appeared as # 84 Ken Weisbrod and # 57 Steve Lang get together and both done for the night. At the half way point Wolfe still paced the field while in behind Slaughter, Skyler, Milligan and K13 Donnie Beattie were scratching for every inch of the track.
With 5 laps to go Wolfe was still the lead car Skyler finally passed Slaughter and was in hot pursuit of the leader while Milligan was trying to hold off a wild pack of cars including Beattie, # 88 Herb Walters and # 51 Mark Adams. As they made the turn for home for the checkered flag Wolfe holds on for the win while in behind there was a mad dash for position Skyler, Slaughter, Adams and Beattie were the fast 5. If that is any indication of the racing the thunder car class is wide open and anyone can win on any given night. The heat winners were # 58 Stan Coe, Adams, Weisbrod and Beattie. Once again congratulations to Kristi and her family and crew for a great victory that John would have been proud to witness and the Sunset family really misses his smiling face around the pit area but I sure he was turning each lap with you Kristi nice job.
THE FOX'S BAKERY & DELI 4 CYLINDER ROAD RUNNERS
There were 22, 4 cylinders to claim victory on this night a feat not easily accomplished as this field is very deep. On the drop of the green # 10 Doug Butler grabbed the early lead with # 42 Harold Noseworthy, # 78 Jason Martin, # 8 Rob Gibson and # 28 Jim Sutter the top 5. At the halfway point the fast 5 were Butler, Noseworthy, Gibson, # 63 Dave Burrows and # 54 Joe Ireton. As they raced to the checkered flag the top 5 were Butler, Noseworthy, Gibson, # 14 Ken Britt and D. Burrows as Burrows actually finished 3rd but was penalized for passing under the yellow line and lost 2 spots. The heat winners were Ireton, Dave Burrows 2 and Britt. Congratulations to Doug and his crew on a great win and all the 4 cylinder drivers on putting on a great show for the second week and promises to be a great ' 08 season. We would like to congratulate last week's feature winner Colt Carcone as Colt and his wife are the proud parents of a baby girl a future 4 cylinder driver.
THE FOX'S FOUR FUNS
The four funs were 32 strong and growing each week and they put on a great show each and every week. On the drop of the green # 15 Bob Mercer grabbed the point while in behind # 29 Rob Gibson Sr., # 3 Fredrick Lacroix, # 77 Frank Kee and # 18 Rick Drinkwater were the fast 5. By the halfway point Gibson was the leader followed by Lacroix, # 9 Marshall Pender, # 35 Myles Jamieson and # 6 Terry Woodley and it stayed that way until 5 laps were left. With 5 laps to go and lapped traffic coming into play Jamieson wrestled the lead from Gibson and along with him came Pender and Woodley and as they received the checkered flag from Rob the top 5 were Jamieson, Pender, Woodley, Gibson and Lacroix. The heat winners were Woodley 2, Jamieson and Pender. Congratulations to Myles and his crew on a fantastic feature win with many more to come I am sure.
Finally we had our first Jalopy figure 8 race of 2008 and it did not disappoint as we had 7 cars and the fans were thoroughly entertained as they were on their feet the entire race that was won on a last lap pass by # 18 Rick Drinkwater make sure you are in attendance on May 31st as round 2 of the Jalopy figure 8 race takes place.
Once again that was why the place to be on Saturday night for great short track racing is the best track in Ontario Sunset Speedway. The racing was great , the show moved along quickly and a great car count 91 in total and make sure that make it out next week remember we start at 7pm and we will have our 4 regular classes, spectator races and the ever popular school bus races.
SUNSET SPEEDWAY
Innisfil, Ontario // RESULTS: May 17, 2008
LATE MODELS: 1. # 19 Jason Witty, 2. # 40 Charlie Gallant, 3. # 11 Chris Morrow, 4. # 6 Keith Maiato, 5. #1 Vic Parsons, 6. # 45 Rob Poole, 7. # 03 Dario Capirchio, 8. # 2 Dan Robinson, 9. # 55 Bruce Rankin, 10. # 57 Ron Quesnelle HEAT WINS: Maiato, Witty, Walters, Morrow
THUNDER CARS: 1. # 25 Kristi Wolfe, 2. # 69 Rob Skyler, 3. # 45 Steve Slaughter Jr., 4. # 51 Mark Adams, 5. # K13 Don Beattie, 6. # 88 Herb Walters, 7. # 23 Tammy Milligan, 8. # 36 Chuck Anderson, 9. # 97 Roy Anderson, 10. # 58 Stan Coe HEAT WINS: Coe, Adams, # 84 Ken Weisbrod, Beattie
4 CYLINDER ROAD RUNNERS: 1. # 10 Doug Butler, 2. # 42 Harold Noseworthy, 3. # 8 Rob Gibson 4. # 14 Ken Britt, 5. # 63 Dave Burrows, 6. # 54 Joe Ireton, 7. # 64 Beau Burrows, 8. # 28 Mike Weeda, 9. # 78 Jason Martin, 10. # 50 John Kaszab HEAT WINS: Dave Burrows 2, Ireton, Britt
4 FUNS: 1. # 35 Myles Jamieson, 2. # 9 Marshall Pender, 3. # 6 Terry Woodley, 4. # 29 Rob Gibson Sr., 5. # 3 Francois Lacroix, 6. # 4 Mark Kehoe, 7. # 18 Rick Drinkwater, 8. # 52 Jason Brown, 9. # 69 Trevor Martin, 10. # 79 Nicole Podewils HEAT WINS: Woodley 2, Jamieson, Pender
From Brian Watt // Sunset Speedway
SPEEDWAY 660: New Name, New Look, And a Whole Lot of Fun!!
Fredericton, NB - Just like a brand new car, Speedway 660 has been re-vamped to get a whole new look that is held out to be WicKID!! Speedway 660, formerly known as New Brunswick International Speedway is ready to entertain families and fans alike. After a long winter, with much snow, a long anticipated season is finally underway with the season opener for the 2008 season opening with a bang to a brand new era of racing entertainment.
The 2008 season is going to be host to some new events that have never been seen at Speedway 660. "Chris and I had the opportunity to talk to other fellow track owners and brainstorm some very good ideas to provide some laughs and add a little excitement to those long awaited sun breaks" said co-owner Steve Burns. .....
Speedway 660 has also added some highly anticipated events on their 2008 schedule that are sure to be repeats for following years. Some of these events include the Drive for Cancer on June 14th and the Night of Destruction on July 19th, not to mention the other events such as the two "Best of the Best" races and the Enduro Series. Aside from the scheduled racing events for the 2008 season there will be crowd entertainment such as Food Bank Bingo, crowd pleasing games, Tomato night and frozen t-shirt contests.
There will also be group nights such as Fire/Rescue/Police night, Support our Troops night, Scouts night and minor baseball/soccer night. To add another twist to the changes, Speedway 660 has a new mascot in town, Speedway the Moose! Speedway will be onsite every day throughout the year for various games, events, and pictures with the race fans. As if you couldn't add anymore excitement to the 2008 season, Speedway will have a new toy, the t-shirt cannon!! The t-shirt cannon will make numerous appearances to deliver t-shirts to the crowd from a longer throwing distance than just a normal person.
To kick off the season, Riverview Ford Lincoln will host the season opener with points racing in every division, the Coast Tire Street Stocks, the Martin's Home Heating Sportsman, and the newly sponsored Irving Lubricants Pro Stocks. This event will go underway at a 6pm race time with heats, dashes ad features all adding on to the events of the evening.
Who will be the new rookies in each division? What will the new paint schemes look like? What does Speedway 660 have in store for you? Take a swing out to the Geary woods this weekend to the speedway, it's sure to be some WicKID Family fun!!
Riverview Ford Lincoln Season Opener
Saturday, May 24th at 6:00pm
Pit gates open at 12pm
Grandstands open at 4pm
Racing starts at 6pm
Regular points racing in Martin's Home Heating Sportsman, and Coast Tire
Street Stock, and Irving Lubricants Pro Stock Divisions
Ticket Prices:
Adults (16 and over) $12
Youth (ages 9-15) $10
Children (ages 8 and under) FREE
Family Pass: Two Adults, Two Youth plus 4 pop and 4 fries for $35.
Speedway 660 is WicKID Family Fun. The 1/3 of a mile high-banked paved oval features three classes of racing on a weekly basis: Irving Lubricants Pro Stocks, Martin's Home Heating, and Coast Tire Street Stocks. Over 60,000 people are expected to attend over 25 events during the 2006 season. Speedway 660 is located off Highway 7 on Route 660 in Geary, NB, and is within minutes of Saint John and Fredericton.
From Miranda Carr, Office Manager // Web: www.speedway660.com
The 2008 season is going to be host to some new events that have never been seen at Speedway 660. "Chris and I had the opportunity to talk to other fellow track owners and brainstorm some very good ideas to provide some laughs and add a little excitement to those long awaited sun breaks" said co-owner Steve Burns. .....
Speedway 660 has also added some highly anticipated events on their 2008 schedule that are sure to be repeats for following years. Some of these events include the Drive for Cancer on June 14th and the Night of Destruction on July 19th, not to mention the other events such as the two "Best of the Best" races and the Enduro Series. Aside from the scheduled racing events for the 2008 season there will be crowd entertainment such as Food Bank Bingo, crowd pleasing games, Tomato night and frozen t-shirt contests.
There will also be group nights such as Fire/Rescue/Police night, Support our Troops night, Scouts night and minor baseball/soccer night. To add another twist to the changes, Speedway 660 has a new mascot in town, Speedway the Moose! Speedway will be onsite every day throughout the year for various games, events, and pictures with the race fans. As if you couldn't add anymore excitement to the 2008 season, Speedway will have a new toy, the t-shirt cannon!! The t-shirt cannon will make numerous appearances to deliver t-shirts to the crowd from a longer throwing distance than just a normal person.
To kick off the season, Riverview Ford Lincoln will host the season opener with points racing in every division, the Coast Tire Street Stocks, the Martin's Home Heating Sportsman, and the newly sponsored Irving Lubricants Pro Stocks. This event will go underway at a 6pm race time with heats, dashes ad features all adding on to the events of the evening.
Who will be the new rookies in each division? What will the new paint schemes look like? What does Speedway 660 have in store for you? Take a swing out to the Geary woods this weekend to the speedway, it's sure to be some WicKID Family fun!!
Riverview Ford Lincoln Season Opener
Saturday, May 24th at 6:00pm
Pit gates open at 12pm
Grandstands open at 4pm
Racing starts at 6pm
Regular points racing in Martin's Home Heating Sportsman, and Coast Tire
Street Stock, and Irving Lubricants Pro Stock Divisions
Ticket Prices:
Adults (16 and over) $12
Youth (ages 9-15) $10
Children (ages 8 and under) FREE
Family Pass: Two Adults, Two Youth plus 4 pop and 4 fries for $35.
Speedway 660 is WicKID Family Fun. The 1/3 of a mile high-banked paved oval features three classes of racing on a weekly basis: Irving Lubricants Pro Stocks, Martin's Home Heating, and Coast Tire Street Stocks. Over 60,000 people are expected to attend over 25 events during the 2006 season. Speedway 660 is located off Highway 7 on Route 660 in Geary, NB, and is within minutes of Saint John and Fredericton.
From Miranda Carr, Office Manager // Web: www.speedway660.com
Hinchcliffe Dominates Atlantic Field at Laguna Seca
The 21-year-old Toronto resident scored his fifth career Atlantic pole position on Saturday, breaking the existing track record behind the wheel of the 300bhp #3 INDECK/TireRack.com Swift Mazda-Cosworth. 'Hinch' duly converted pole into his second series victory and first since Round 4 at Portland International Raceway in 2006, his rookie season in Atlantics.
James arrived at the 2.238-mile Laguna Seca track on Friday determined to kick start his title bid after a frustrating opening round in Long Beach ended with a tenth place finish. A front-runner from the off, the Canadian blitzed the opposition in Friday's first qualifying session. A hot lap of 1m17.541s (103.904mph) secured the Forsythe Pettit Racing driver provisional pole, and a guaranteed front-row slot, but he wasn't done with that!
Saturday's final qualifying outing proved to be memorable as Hinchcliffe again dominated and in doing so broke the series track record with a stunning lap time of 1m16.189s (105.748mph). His performance sealed the deal on pole position, his first since Round 7 in Edmonton last season, with America's Carl Skerlong alongside James on the front-row of the grid.
It was Skerlong who made the most of the standing start on Sunday afternoon, the sophomore racer leading the field into the first turn with Hinchcliffe tucked up behind. The Canadian reclaimed the lead at a re-start on lap six and held his own through to the checkered flag 31 tours later making it back-to-back victories at Laguna Seca having won the Star Mazda race on his previous outing at the Monterey track in 2005. James' margin of victory over Skerlong was 2.391s with Junior Strous from The Netherlands completing the podium celebrations.
"I totally botched the start which allowed Carl to lead," Hinchcliffe reflected post-race. "Thankfully I got him on the re-start at the second turn. I was a little worried when there was another full course caution, I thought I might be a sitting duck at the re-start but the car was really strong off the final corner and I managed to get a decent gap to protect my lead. From there I was able to control the pace and take the win.
"We're back where we want to be now; this was the real start to our season. The team did an awesome job, they worked really hard and the result speaks for itself. It was great to give our team manager, John Brunner, a win on his birthday but it was hard work. This was a challenging, hot, physical race but thankfully my fitness training with Jim Leo from Pit Fit paid dividends today!"
The 2008 Cooper Tires Presents The Atlantic Championship Powered by Mazda crosses the border to Hinchcliffe's native Canada next month with Round 3 hosted at Circuit Mont-Tremblant, Québec, Friday 27th – Sunday 29th June 2008 – www.atlantic-championship.com
Top Five Atlantic Drivers – R2/11: 1st HINCHCLIFFE (CAN) 44pts, 2nd De Silvestro (SUI) 42pts, 3rd Summerton (USA) 42pts, 4th Strous (NED) 41pts, 5th Niemela (FIN) 40pts
Photo Credit – "Toronto's James Hinchcliffe notched up his first win of the season in Round 2 at Laguna Seca" – TNT Images
From Stuart Morrison Public Relations
Huffmaster Scores Maiden MX-5 Win in Mosport Rain Race
Unlike Round One at Road Atlanta, setup was not a guessing game for the MX-5 Cup field, as a steady rain had been falling across the 2.459-mile circuit for nearly an hour and worsened as the cars made their way to pre-grid.
Huffmaster, who had qualified fourth in the No. 27 Team MER/Huffmaster Co. MX-5, picked up a position before the race even started when the No. 81 Team MER/Airco Mechanical MX-5 of Ryan Schimsk, from Austin, Texas, was late to pre-grid, moving Huffmaster up to third as the field took to the track. When the green flag waved, Huffmaster did his best to make it through Turn One unscathed, but nearly ended his race early.
"I was starting third, so I was on the inside, and I didn't want to be that guy that goes into Turn One and takes people out, so I tried to back off early, but it was not enough," Huffmaster said. "I got all crossed up and starting sliding. I slid right off the track and got about halfway through the gravel, but I didn't want to get stuck there, so I got back in the throttle. I got back to the edge of the gravel and back on the track, but by that point almost the whole field was by."
Despite having little rain racing experience to draw from, Huffmaster put his head down and made a miraculous charge through the field, catching then leader Foss on lap eight and pulling out an astonishing 33.316-second lead by the time the checkered flag flew on lap 21.
"After Turn One I thought my goal was to get a top-10 and salvage some points out of this, but as the laps when by I kept closing in on people and passing people. I can't explain what happened really, it just happened. I've had one race in the rain and that was at the Runoffs last year [where he won the SCCA Touring 3 Championship]. It rained in the first half and dried out the second half. I still don't like it, but I'm happy with the results."
He may not like it, but Huffmaster may have uncovered a hidden talent in rain racing as he not only won the 51.639-mile race and led the most laps, but also collected the Hawk Hot Lap for turning the fastest lap of the race, a 2:01.771 (72.697 mph).
Despite having a large lead early in the race, Foss was happy to watch his teammate sail to victory, while collecting valuable points in the No. 28 Team MER/Autobarn Mazda/Brooke Co. MX-5.
"The start was great," Foss said. "There was a lot of mayhem behind me and when I got to Turn Two I looked back and thought 'Wow, I've got a pretty good lead.' After I settled in I paced out a pretty good gap. I saw Rob coming and started asking how it was panning out for third and fourth. At this point in the Championship, I was really ready to settle for a second. I wasn't going to challenge him. I don't know if I had anything for him to be honest, but I wasn't going to try, because I'd rather have second than a DNF.
"The track was getting worse as the race went on. There were some visibility issues. I probably didn't prep my visor well enough. I was having to wipe it inside and out on the straighaways, which made it a little more challenging. The Team MER MX-5 felt great though and the Kumho rain tires worked really well. It was a lot of fun actually."
Equally as impressive as Huffmaster's run through the field for the win, was the race of Smrz in the No. 6 Alara/Smrz Racing MX-5. After tipping the scale a few pounds light in post-qualifying technical inspection, Smrz was forced to start from the back of the grid in 22nd position, but made an inspired run through the field to finish third.
"I think after the first lap I ended up in 10th place," Smrz said. "I got lucky, because I found a gap in Turn One and I went for it. Then I saw a bunch of cars go off the track, so it became a big open hole and my setup was working awesome.
"I've never raced in the rain in these cars or on these tires before, so it was quite an experience. I was learning a lot as I went along. I was talking to my dad on the radio to see how I was doing position wise. When he told me I was seventh place on lap five I said 'no way!' It was quite a shock"
Rather than lament what might have been, the 17 year-old who had a portion of his left leg amputated more than a year ago and has been racing with a prosthesis ever since, saw the glass as half full.
"It was very disappointing to be sent to the back of the grid, but now that I think about it, we really only had a second-place car, because Huffmaster was absolutely flawless. I guess it feels even better being second starting from last place, so I can look at it that way."
SCCA Spec Miata National Champion Brad Rampelberg, of San Jose, Calif., was another driver who demonstrated his strong rain racing capabilities. The No. 14 Hooverspeed/Mazda MX-5 pilot qualified 10th, but ended the day with fourth place after a spirited battle with the No. 56 Hooverspeed/Pancreaticcure.org MX-5 of Todd Buras, from Melbourne, Fla. Buras would cross the line in fifth.
Starting 13th, Steve Welk was up to third by lap two, but was shuffled back to sixth by the race's end. Anders Hainer nearly had a fourth-place finish in the bag, before a passing attempt on the final lap resulted in a spin, dropping Hainer back to seventh. Neal Sapp, Elivan Goulart and Robert Michaelian completed the top ten.
The MX-5 Cup teams will have more than a month to dry off with Round Three not taking place until July 25 27 at Portland International Raceway.
For all the latest news, results and photos from SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup, visit www.mx-5cup.com.
BOWMANVILLE, Ontario - Results from Sunday's 21-lap 51.639 mile SCCA Pro Racing Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Two SCCA MX-5 Cup Round Two race, part of the Victoria Day SpeedFest at Mosport International Raceway with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps and reason out (if any).
1. (5), Robert Huffmaster, Clarkston, Mich., MX-5, 21.
2. (1), Eric Foss, Fort Worth, Texas, MX-5, 21, -33.316.
3. (22), Brett Smrz, Coeur D'Alene, Idaho, MX-5, 21, -49.024.
4. (10), Brad Rampelberg, San Jose, Calif., MX-5, 21, -59.742.
5. (9), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., MX-5, 21, -1:13.699.
6. (13), Steve Welk, Franklin, Wis., MX-5, 21, -1:24.050.
7. (6), Anders Hainer, Woodland Hills, Calif., MX-5, 21, -1:24.519.
8. (12), Neal Sapp, Chadds Ford, Pa., MX-5, 21, -1:33.293.
9. (8), Elivan Goulart, Shelton, Conn., MX-5, 21, -1:46.713.
10. (11), Robert Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., MX-5, 21, -1:52.810.
11. (3), Christian Franck, Simi Valley, Calif., MX-5, 20, -1 lap.
12. (23), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., MX-5, 20, -1 lap.
13. (4), Ryan Schimsk, Austin, Texas, MX-5, 20, -1 lap.
14. (18), Alison Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., MX-5, 20, -1 lap.
15. (22), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., MX-5, 20, -1 lap.
16. (17), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, MX-5, 20, -1 lap.
17. (20), Randy Hale III, Haddam, Conn., MX-5, 20, -1 lap.
18. (15), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, MX-5, 20, -1 lap.
19. (19), Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, MX-5, 19, -2 laps.
20. (21), Laura Olson, Costa Mesa, Calif., MX-5, 19, -2 laps.
21. (21), Brad Adams, New Orleans, La., MX-5, 18, -3 laps.
22. (14), Deborah Loth, Fort Worth, Texas, MX-5, 19, -2 laps.
23. (16), Forest Barber, Fort Worth, Texas, MX-5, 17, -4 laps.
24. (24), Susan Krohn, Houston, Texas, MX-5, 0, DNS.
Time of race: 44 minutes, 57.998 seconds.
Average speed: 68.903 mph
Margin of victory: 33.316 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-8, #28 Eric Foss; laps 9-21, #27 Robert Huffmaster
Hawk Hot Lap: #27 Robert Huffmaster, 2:01.771 (72.697 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #28 Eric Foss, 1:35.999 (92.213 mph)
From Erin Cechal // SCCA PR Manager
Top driving talents head to Alberta for Canadian Rally Championship's Round 2
The contest will see a fierce battle for championship points and the debut of a much-anticipated new competition car from Subaru Rally Team Canada. Defending champion Antoine L'Estage and his co-driver Nathalie Richard are looking to extend their championship lead after starting the season with a win in February at the Rallye Perce-Neige-Maniwaki.
The Hyundai-supported driver won this event in 2007. He has earned the championship title for the past two years, but is prepared to fight hard to defend his crown this season.
"This event has been good to me and I've won here the past two years," says L'Estage, "It's going to be a good fight with lots of competition, but I'm confident."
Among the challengers are Andrew "ACP" Comrie-Picard and co-driver Marc Goldfarb, the 2007 championship runners-up. The Edmonton native and his co-driver are running an aggressive campaign in 2008 that sees them competing on both sides of the border in their Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX. They are currently standing in second-place overall in both the Canadian and U.S. championships.
"This event is a homecoming for me," says Comrie-Picard. "My family has worked and lived in the Porcupine Hills for generations, and I want to give them a win on home turf."
Two-time Canadian Rally Champion Pat Richard is expected to debut his new 2008 Subaru Impreza STI rally car at this event. It's an exciting promise for Subaru fans who have been eager to see the new model in action since it was launched earlier this year. After the retirement of the factory Subaru Canada team at the end of 2004, Richard has returned to the series with Subaru Canada backing for 2008, co-driven by Alan Ockwell. The pair finished in third place at the first round of the season in their initial outing as teammates.
"I'm looking forward to this rally and debuting the new car," explained Richard, "Antoine hasn't had a lot of competition the past few years, so I want to be competitive with him. It's a new car and a new team, but I really won't be happy with anything less than second place."
In addition to these anticipated frontrunners, many other talented teams will be vying for victory on the fast mountain course.
Up-and-comer Simon Losier will be competing in a Mitsubishi EVO VIII, having previously campaigned a two-wheel drive Honda. Alberta's Gord Olsen will be back in action in his Open class Subaru WRX, while British Columbia's Norm Leblanc will challenge the leaders in his P4 Subaru. Relative newcomer "Crazy" Leo Urlichich, also in a Subaru, has set very fast times at recent events and is sure to be a top contender.
Two wheel drive entries include Colin Armstrong and co-driver Jason Thain in a Group 2 Volkwagen Golf GTI who will resume their battle against fellow Western crew Eric Grochowski and co-driver Leanne Junnila in another VW Golf. Kris and Jaclyn Schofield have also shown impressive speed at recent events in their rear-wheel drive Toyota Corolla, and will be pushing for a top spot. Alberta locals, Zbigniew Szewczyk and Tomasz Karzynski will represent the Group 5 class in their high-powered Mitsubishi.
The defending North American Production class champions Jan and Jody Zedril, in their Mitsubishi Lancer, have new competition in the Production 3 class from the all-female crew of Jen Horsey and Elise Racette – who will be debuting their own Mitsubishi Lancer at this event.
The event, held from May 23-24, includes 185 kilometers of competitive stages. The official start takes place at 1:00pm at the Deerfoot Inn and Casino on Friday, May 23, and Race City Speedway hosts a rally display and spectator stage starting at 6:00pm. The action then moves to a series of fast mountain stages in the Porcupine Hills area on Saturday.
Rally car racing is often described simply as "real cars, real roads, real fast." The all-season motorsport sees drivers and their co-drivers take modified road cars to the limit as they achieve blistering speeds over closed-road courses that typically cover more than 150 kilometres of gravel, dirt or snow-covered roads. Fans can get up close to the cars in the service areas and catch all the action from specially designated spectator points located at the best spots on the route.
The Canadian Rally Championship is comprised of six events held nationwide in a season that extends from February to November. The series is presented by Subaru Canada, supported by Yokohama Tire Canada and features contingency programs from Subaru Canada and Mitsubishi Canada. The Canadian Association of Rallysport (CARS) is the official sanctioning body for rallying in Canada.
Full coverage of the championship will air on RDS and TSN. Check local listings.
For more information: Terry Epp, National Series Manager, 905-640-6444, or crc@carsrally.ca On the web: www.CARSrally.ca ; www.rockymountainrally.com //
PHOTO: Antoine L'Estage and Nathalie Richard, 2007 Canadian Rally Championship.
PHOTO BY: Andrew Harvey (Mandatory Credit)
Canadian rally: Mitsubishi brigade will star seven teams at Rocky Mountain
TORONTO (May 20, 2008) - The Mitsubishi Canadian rally brigade will have seven crews entering the Rocky Mountain Rally, the next event scheduled in the Canadian Rally Championship, this weekend out of Calgary, Alberta.
Close to 40 teams from Canada and the United States will meet in the Stampede Capital for this two-day (May 23 – 24) and 635 kilometre run over the surrounding country roads in the Kananaskis and the Porcupine Hills regions. Altitude and unpredictable weather conditions are factors the crews will have to cope with. But the teams, led by veteran Canadian Andrew Comrie-Picard at the helm of an EVO 9RS along with his codriver, American Marc Goldfarb, are used to these conditions.
"The 2008 maiden event in Quebec was outstanding for our rally teams, claims Peter Renz, Director, National Marketing for Mitsubishi Motor Sales of Canada. "Three of them filled the Top 5 places and we couldn't ask for more in these difficult winter conditions. It is an indication that our products can stand those rough conditions and our drivers and codrivers are very talented. For having attended such gruelling events before, I have the greatest respect for the crews, those who throw their Lancer Evos sideways in every curve as well as those who service them along the events."
Vying for three class wins: Looking for the open class and outright win in their Lancer EVO 9RS will be frontrunners Comrie-Picard and Goldfarb. ACP finished second last year and is looking to step on the podium again, albeit on top. Zbigniew Zebe Szewczyk et Tomasz Karzynski are the local heroes. Zebe is the Group 5 Western defending champion and has netted Top 10 positions regularly, with a fifth overall last year: he is looking for a class victory and a Top 10 finish.
Three crews from Quebec are traveling out west: the Losier family will have at least a member in each of them. Rejean is a seasoned veteran driver and will steer his EVO 8. Simon and Maxime compose the younger crew while Martin will codrive Ontarian Francisco Pereira. They all agree being rookies in this event is an extra challenge but they feel a Top 10 finish is within their reach.
Finally, Jan and Jody Zedril from Manitoba come to Calgary with a lead in the P3 class after their victorious outing in Maniwaki. Last year runner-up in this class, they expect to increase their class lead. Competition could come from the only lady crew of Jen Horsey et Élise Racette in another production Lancer.
"All these teams are enjoying some subsidy from our contingency program", notes Mr Renz. "They get some entry fee and tow money, prizes according to their class or overall standings and part of the year-end 5000$ prize fund and the Mitsubishi Cup. We will also have on location a kiosk with promotional items for the fans."
Event profile: Second round of the Canadian Rally Championship, the 35th edition of Rocky Mountain Rally will get underway Friday afternoon at 1:00 PM from downtown Calgary, Alberta. It will consist of 635 kilometres over the Kananaskis and Porcupine Hills (Saturday) regions. 13 speed stages will total 185 km of sheer speed, with two of them held at Race City Speedway. Podium ceremony is expected Saturday evening around 7:00 PM. For further information, please visit the RMR web site at www.rockymountainrally.com
For more Mitsubishi information, visit our password free media website at www.mitsubishi-motors-pr.ca
Close to 40 teams from Canada and the United States will meet in the Stampede Capital for this two-day (May 23 – 24) and 635 kilometre run over the surrounding country roads in the Kananaskis and the Porcupine Hills regions. Altitude and unpredictable weather conditions are factors the crews will have to cope with. But the teams, led by veteran Canadian Andrew Comrie-Picard at the helm of an EVO 9RS along with his codriver, American Marc Goldfarb, are used to these conditions.
"The 2008 maiden event in Quebec was outstanding for our rally teams, claims Peter Renz, Director, National Marketing for Mitsubishi Motor Sales of Canada. "Three of them filled the Top 5 places and we couldn't ask for more in these difficult winter conditions. It is an indication that our products can stand those rough conditions and our drivers and codrivers are very talented. For having attended such gruelling events before, I have the greatest respect for the crews, those who throw their Lancer Evos sideways in every curve as well as those who service them along the events."
Vying for three class wins: Looking for the open class and outright win in their Lancer EVO 9RS will be frontrunners Comrie-Picard and Goldfarb. ACP finished second last year and is looking to step on the podium again, albeit on top. Zbigniew Zebe Szewczyk et Tomasz Karzynski are the local heroes. Zebe is the Group 5 Western defending champion and has netted Top 10 positions regularly, with a fifth overall last year: he is looking for a class victory and a Top 10 finish.
Three crews from Quebec are traveling out west: the Losier family will have at least a member in each of them. Rejean is a seasoned veteran driver and will steer his EVO 8. Simon and Maxime compose the younger crew while Martin will codrive Ontarian Francisco Pereira. They all agree being rookies in this event is an extra challenge but they feel a Top 10 finish is within their reach.
Finally, Jan and Jody Zedril from Manitoba come to Calgary with a lead in the P3 class after their victorious outing in Maniwaki. Last year runner-up in this class, they expect to increase their class lead. Competition could come from the only lady crew of Jen Horsey et Élise Racette in another production Lancer.
"All these teams are enjoying some subsidy from our contingency program", notes Mr Renz. "They get some entry fee and tow money, prizes according to their class or overall standings and part of the year-end 5000$ prize fund and the Mitsubishi Cup. We will also have on location a kiosk with promotional items for the fans."
Event profile: Second round of the Canadian Rally Championship, the 35th edition of Rocky Mountain Rally will get underway Friday afternoon at 1:00 PM from downtown Calgary, Alberta. It will consist of 635 kilometres over the Kananaskis and Porcupine Hills (Saturday) regions. 13 speed stages will total 185 km of sheer speed, with two of them held at Race City Speedway. Podium ceremony is expected Saturday evening around 7:00 PM. For further information, please visit the RMR web site at www.rockymountainrally.com
For more Mitsubishi information, visit our password free media website at www.mitsubishi-motors-pr.ca
KARTING: Two for two for Lazare
Montréal, Québec (May 19th, 2008) - Sportimage.net- Karting Driver Jesse Lazare has taken an important championship lead in the 4 stroke junior category by clinching two back to back wins in the Montreal championship held this past Saturday at the SH Karting track.
Jesse Lazare has experienced an incredible start to the season so far. “I have five more races to win in order to clinch the championship,” explains Jesse with a big smile. "The final was very tense because Isabelle [Manny] and Maxime [Plante] were very close behind me,” he explains.
Jesse qualified in third position with only 0,048 seconds shy of first place. He took first place and kept it during the pre-final until he crossed the finish line. The final was not an easy one to win since Manny and Plante stuck close behind him.
“In his first year, Jesse learnt how to handle pressure. We worked very hard with him on this aspect because it was something he lacked,” explains his mechanic Hugo. He controlled the pressure very well in the final. At the start, he was able to manage Manny and Plante who did not give up. Without counting the back markers at the end of the race! It was an incredible 15 lap final where the top position was changed two times, but it was Jesse who held on until the finish line with only 0,074 seconds separating him from Isabelle Manny.
Jesse will be on the Château-Richer track, near Quebec next Sunday where he will participate in the Vega Championship in the Mini-Max Category.
For the second consecutive year, Lazare is sponsored by garage doors Garaga, SH Karting team, Kart-o-mania and the family business, Dor Doctor.
Results (Final):
1- Jesse Lazare
2- Isabelle Manny + 0,074 second
3- Maxime Plante + 0,331 second
From Sportimage communication
Jesse Lazare has experienced an incredible start to the season so far. “I have five more races to win in order to clinch the championship,” explains Jesse with a big smile. "The final was very tense because Isabelle [Manny] and Maxime [Plante] were very close behind me,” he explains.
Jesse qualified in third position with only 0,048 seconds shy of first place. He took first place and kept it during the pre-final until he crossed the finish line. The final was not an easy one to win since Manny and Plante stuck close behind him.
“In his first year, Jesse learnt how to handle pressure. We worked very hard with him on this aspect because it was something he lacked,” explains his mechanic Hugo. He controlled the pressure very well in the final. At the start, he was able to manage Manny and Plante who did not give up. Without counting the back markers at the end of the race! It was an incredible 15 lap final where the top position was changed two times, but it was Jesse who held on until the finish line with only 0,074 seconds separating him from Isabelle Manny.
Jesse will be on the Château-Richer track, near Quebec next Sunday where he will participate in the Vega Championship in the Mini-Max Category.
For the second consecutive year, Lazare is sponsored by garage doors Garaga, SH Karting team, Kart-o-mania and the family business, Dor Doctor.
Results (Final):
1- Jesse Lazare
2- Isabelle Manny + 0,074 second
3- Maxime Plante + 0,331 second
From Sportimage communication
SOS and Have Bus Will Travel Racing Tours to send fans for a wild ride in 2008
SOS and Have Bus Will Travel Racing Tours to send fans for a wild ride in 2008
To kick off the 2008 season, the Southern Ontario Sprints and Have Bus Will Travel have teamed up to send 6 lucky fans to the World of Outlaws races to be held at Ohsweken Speedway 23rd. One of only two Canadian stops on the World of Outlaws tour. These races are a must see event for any sprintcar fan. The World of Outlaws are the premiere touring 410 winged sprintcar series and a number of former SOS competitors have gone on to race with them in the past.
To kick off the 2008 season, the Southern Ontario Sprints and Have Bus Will Travel have teamed up to send 6 lucky fans to the World of Outlaws races to be held at Ohsweken Speedway 23rd. One of only two Canadian stops on the World of Outlaws tour. These races are a must see event for any sprintcar fan. The World of Outlaws are the premiere touring 410 winged sprintcar series and a number of former SOS competitors have gone on to race with them in the past.
A pair of race tours, including (c)Transportainment, reserved seats at the Race and a Tailgating BBQ, will be drawn at each of the first three races of the 2008 SOS season. The first draw will be May 10th at the Season opener at Brighton Speedway, May 31st at the first appearance of the SOS at Brockville Speedway and June 14th when the SOS return to Brighton Speedway.
Fans can win by filling out a ballot at the Southern Ontario Sprints souvenir stand outside the main grandstand at each of the 3 races. The feature winning driver will draw a name for the pair of race tours from the ballot box and the winner can come down to claim their prize in victory lane.
Have Bus Will Travel is a tour bus operator, offering Quality Transportation Services in Toronto and the GTA and Charter Bus Services to and from any point in Canada and the USA. They specialize in providing (c)Transportainment, to racing destinations across North America. Including, NASCAR, IRL, Formula 1, World of Outlaws, and NHRA.
For more information visit http://www.havebus.com/ and for more information on the Southern Ontario Sprints visit http://www.southernontariosprints.com/.
PHOTO GALLERY: Flamboro Speedway May 17, 2008 by Dave Franks ... includes Lucas Oil Canadian Vintage Mods
A 160-photo gallery from Saturday night's action at Flamboro Speedway.
Thanks to Dave Franks for sending along the photos!
To see more of Dave's work, visit his new site here.
'Dizzy' Dean Murray... Celebration of Life on Sunday, June 1, 2008
Click on the image to view a larger version.OSCAARSIM.ca Launching OSCAAR Outlaw Sim Mod for NSR
TORONTO, ON - As the 2008 racing season is among us including the OSCAAR Outlaw Super Late Models. Ocaarsim.ca is proud to announce the release of the OSCAAR Outlaw Sim Mod for use with NSR.
The long anticipated mod for the very popular NASCAR Sim Racing PC game is being released Tuesday May 20th. Oscaarsim.ca runs an online simulated racing league every Tuesday night and now will represent the outlaw style car that is popular with race fans across Canada and the United States.
The League is open to any online racers that which to join the already 30 plus regular members. The well established league is run in a professional manner that mimics the real OSCAAR Series. Three race seasons are run each year with great emphasis on quality competition, great camaraderie close clean fun racing.
Oscaarsim.ca is run by experienced individuals both in the Sim and Real world of motorsports. Along with the launch of the mod there are also two additional tracks for NSR available on the site for members in good standing. The series does not charge a fee as each driver are required to make a donation to the site yearly to maintain points for the series standings.
For more information on the series and site visit www.oscaarsim.ca drop a line in the forum.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
