National Guard Named as ADRL Title Sponsor

Series now called the National Guard American Drag Racing League

O’FALLON, MO (Dec. 12, 2008)—The American Drag Racing League (ADRL) announced today that the National Guard will be the all-eighth-mile drag racing organization's title sponsor beginning in 2009. The O’Fallon, Missouri-based series will now be called the National Guard American Drag Racing League.

In 2008, the National Guard served as presenting sponsor for the drag racing organization. The opportunity to increase their involvement with the ADRL was the next logical step in a successful relationship.

ADRL President and founder Kenny Nowling made the announcement during a press conference at the 21st annual Performance Racing Industries (PRI) trade show in Orlando (Fla.).

Nowling applauded the decision by the respected military branch.

"I am very proud to welcome the National Guard as the ADRL's title sponsor and I look forward to continuing our work with Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Day and all National Guard Soldiers," said Nowling. "I also consider it a special honor that we have been chosen to represent the brave servicemen and women who serve in the National Guard."

Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Day, Chief of Strategic Initiatives and Marketing for the National Guard Bureau, is enthusiastic to enter into a new partnership for 2009. "I was very impressed with the dedication of both the drivers and fans of the ADRL. It only made sense to continue to build a strong relationship," he stated.

ADRL Program Manager for the National Guard, Sergeant First Class John Metzler, believes the partnership will strongly impact the National Guard's Recruiting and Retention efforts. "Racing is an American sport. It reaches our recruiting demographic. We look forward to sharing our patriotism with all the fans." SFC Metzler continued to say, "The ADRL family, drivers, and fans show enthusiastic support for our drivers and most importantly, our troops."

Entering its fifth season of competition, the National Guard American Drag Racing League will stage 10 national events in 2009, featuring drag racing's only all-professional show comprised of four racing classes: Pro Extreme, Pro Nitrous, Extreme 10.5 and Pro Extreme Motorcycle.

PHOTO CUTLINE: ADRL President Kenny Nowling (left) was joined by SFC John Metzler in announcing the National Guard as title sponsor for the O'Fallon, MO-based drag racing series.

About the National Guard: The National Guard is the oldest component of the Armed Forces of the United States and one of the nation’s longest enduring institutions. The National Guard operates in all 50 states, three territories (Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands) and the District of Columbia. For more information on the National Guard, visit 1-800-GO-GUARD.com. The National Guard maintains an overall motorsports presence with sponsorships in the ADRL, NASCAR, IRL and AMA Superbike series.

About the ADRL: Based in O’Fallon, Missouri, the American Drag Racing League is the nation’s premier sanctioning body for the sport of eighth-mile drag racing. The professional categories featured in the ADRL are Pro Extreme Motorcycle, Extreme 10.5, Pro Nitrous and Pro Extreme, the quickest full-bodied class in all of drag racing. The 2009 National Guard ADRL tour schedule consists of 10 national events run throughout the United States. For more information on the ADRL, visit http://www.ADRL.us.

From Ian Tocher / ADRL
Contact: American Drag Racing League // Bob Margolis // ADRL Communications Dept. bob@adrl.us

<<NG ADRL.jpg>>

INDYCAR SERIES NEWS AND NOTES - Dec. 12, 2008

INDYCAR SERIES NEWS AND NOTES – Dec. 12, 2008

 

Today’s IndyCar Series and Firestone Indy Lights headlines

1. Dallara partners with IndyCar Series to lower team operating costs
2. Andretti, Viso re-signed for 2009
3. Dixon honored by BRDC
4. Howard wins PRI karting event

 

1. Dallara partners with IndyCar Series to lower team operating costs: In an effort to reduce costs for IndyCar Series teams during the 2009 season, Dallara will lower the price of parts for its IndyCar Series chassis.

 

The manufacturer plans to reduce the cost of general and specific spare parts, including items such as wishbones, wings and radiators, between 8 and 20 percent. Dallara estimates the average team savings will be approximately 11 percent compared to 2008.  The new prices will be available to teams when the 2009 catalog is released on Jan. 10.

 

“Everybody knows that this is a difficult time, and we have to do our best now to help the teams,” said Andrea Toso, IndyCar Series project leader for Dallara. “If we can help the teams go through this difficult time, it is in the best interest of the manufacturers, the series and the teams. If we don’t do anything now, maybe one year from now it’s too late. We hope that all suppliers and partners will understand this initiative and follow suit.” 

 

A long time partner to the IndyCar Series, Dallara has been providing chassis to teams since 1997.

 

“In light of the current global economic crisis, to see the effort Dallara has made to help all of our teams with an across-the-board cost reduction is truly the definition of a partner,” said Brian Barnhart, president of competition and operations for the Indy Racing League, the sanctioning body of the IndyCar Series. “They are just going out of their way to do what they can to ensure the stability of the IndyCar Series beginning in 2009.”

 

The move to reduce costs caps a frenzied IndyCar Series season for Dallara, which saw the addition of 15 new chassis to the field to meet the demand of increased car count resulting from the unification of open wheel racing less than 30 days prior to opening day.

 

“The ability to ramp up and supply equipment on that late of notice after unification showed their commitment to the series as well, and now what they are doing from the business side is a tremendous gesture and hopefully one that can be followed by other suppliers in the series,” Barnhart said.

***     

2. Andretti, Viso re-signed for 2009: Marco Andretti and E.J. Viso will return to the IndyCar Series in 2009. Andretti re-signed with Andretti Green Racing to drive the No. 26 entry, while Viso re-signed with HVM Racing to drive the No. 33 car.

 

Andretti finished seventh in the IndyCar Series point standings in 2008, his fourth season. He ranked fourth among all drivers with 330 laps led. The 21-year old son of team owner Michael Andretti scored four podium and six top-five finishes in 2008, including a third in the 92nd running of the Indianapolis 500 - his second top-three finish at Indy in just three starts.

 

"I'm really looking forward to 2009 at Andretti Green,” Marco Andretti said. “As a team, we have a lot to prove next year, and I want to be a big part of that. I learned a lot last year that I can build on going forward and have every reason to believe that we can be a factor all year long."

 

Andretti will be teammates with 2004 IndyCar Series champion Tony Kanaan, 2008 Bombardier Learjet Rookie of the Year Hideki Mutoh and 2005 Bombardier Learjet Rookie of the Year Danica Patrick.

 

"It's good to get Marco's contract done,” Michael Andretti said. “He is a big part of the future of our team and is someone that we expect big things from in 2009. As a team, we are working very hard to improve our entire program for next season, and Marco will play a big role in everything we achieve."

 

Viso, 23, proved in 2008 to be one of the best young drivers in the IndyCar Series. The rookie recorded seven top-10 finishes, including a season-best fourth on the Streets of St. Petersburg.

 

“Well, most people knew it was coming, but everything had to be put in place,” team owner Keith Wiggins said. “This is a natural progression and a sensible move for both team and driver. It will actually be the first time since 2004 that we have the continuity of retaining the same driver for a second season. That in itself shows a positive picture for our team and the single open-wheel series. We are delighted to continue with E.J going into our second IndyCar Series season and believe that together we can make big strides in 2009.”

 

HVM Racing plans to add a second car to its program in 2009. The team also will expand with a Firestone Indy Lights program.

 

“I am very pleased to stay with HVM for 2009,” Viso said. “We had a good season in 2008 given that it was our ‘learning’ year, and having continuity is a good thing to pursue our progression towards the top. The team is working on upping our game, and our plans to enter a second car are very close to be completed. This obviously will be a big plus."

***

3. Dixon honored by BRDC: IndyCar Series champion Scott Dixon has been honored by the British Racing Drivers' Club as the recipient of the 2008 Bruce McLaren Trophy.

 

The trophy is awarded annually to the Commonwealth driver who has established the most meritorious performances in international motor racing. Dixon also received the honor during his 2003 IndyCar Series championship season.

"I think it’s fantastic and a big honor to win the Bruce McLaren Trophy," Dixon said. "The BRDC is a very prestigious club, and to be noticed as the best Commonwealth international driver is something I will never forget. I also have to that Dick Bennetts for receiving the award on my behalf."

The trophy was originally presented to Bruce McLaren for finishing in second place in the 1965 Canadian Grand Prix at Mosport. After McLaren passed away in 1970, his widow, Patty, presented it to the BRDC to give to the best Commonwealth driver of each year.

 

McLaren was born in Auckland, New Zealand. Dixon was born in Australia but grew up in New Zealand.

***

4. Howard wins PRI karting event: IndyCar Series driver Jay Howard won the third annual PRI All-Stars Karting Classic Dec. 11 in Orlando, Fla.

 

Howard, the 2006 Firestone Indy Lights champion who competed in five IndyCar Series events as a rookie in 2008, took the checkers with a 3.203-second advantage after 40 laps on the seven-turn, .25-mile course at the Orange County Convention Center.

 

“The race wasn’t easy by any means, but we were unchallenged the whole time,” Howard said. “I got in the lead and led the whole way. There are a lot of top drivers from different series there, so it’s nice to kind of make a point that I think I’m good enough to get a ride (in the IndyCar Series in 2009).”

 

Eight other IndyCar Series drivers competed in the Masters Division event, including Buddy Rice (9^th), Alex Tagliani (10^th), Dan Wheldon (13^th), Ryan Hunter-Reay (15^th), Ed Carpenter (23^rd), Will Power (24^th), Townsend Bell (25^th) and Vitor Meira (26^th).

***

           The 2009 IndyCar Series season opens April 5 with the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on the streets of St. Petersburg, Fla. The race will be telecast live at 2 p.m. (EDT) by VERSUS. The 2009 Firestone Indy Lights season begins with a doubleheader race weekend April 4-5 at St. Petersburg.

 

Media Contacts:

 

John Griffin, Indy Racing League, (317) 492-6579, jgriffin@indycar.com

Amy Konrath, Indy Racing League, (317) 492-6453, akonrath@indycar.com

 

World Wide Web:

http://www.indycar.com

PHOTO GALLERY - 21st PRI Trade Show, Orlando, Florida

This is a photo gallery from the 21st PERFORMANCE RACING INDUSTRY Trade Show held in Orlando, Florida. It was on from December 10 thru the 12. In addition to exhibits and seminars an invitation KART Race was held (pictures of that too can be found in the slide deck).

Thanks to M.P. Roy for the photos. You can see M.P.'s website here.

Mosport Adds Trans-Am & SPEED World Challenge To Victoria Day Weekend

TRANS-AM TRADITION RETURNS TO MOSPORT
 
Re-Born Series To Join SPEED World Challenge On Victoria Day SpeedFest Weekend
 
BOWMANVILLE, ON (December 11, 2008) – Mosport has added a longtime fan favorite, the Trans-Am® Series, to its 2009 season-opening Victoria Day SpeedFest Weekend, May 15-17. Joining the Trans-Am will be one of North America’s most popular road racing championships, the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge.

 
The Trans-Am, a successful racing series launched in 1966, returns after a two-year hiatus with a planned eight-race schedule as well as a new series’ title sponsor for 2009—Muscle Milk®.  Five of the eight races were announced today at the Performance Racing Industry show, in Orlando, Fla., including the Mosport round.

 
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the Trans-Am Series was the featured event of the Victoria Day weekend.   Mosport has hosted 25 Trans-Am races with Scott Pruett winning the last series appearance at Canada’s Home of Motorsports in 2003. 

 
Mosport has hosted the World Challenge since its inception in 1990, this year trading its traditional August date for the first Canadian long weekend of the summer.  Operated by WC Vision and SCCA Pro Racing, the nine-event SPEED Channel- sponsored Championship runs as two separate series and races (SCCA SPEED GT and SCCA SPEED Touring Car) at major venues across the continent and features the world’s most popular manufacturers, like Porsche, Cadillac, Acura, Mazda and Chevrolet.

 
 In addition to the SPEED GT, fans will get to enjoy a SPEED Touring Car doubleheader and the homegrown Castrol Canadian Touring Car Series, a Saturday night fireworks show, plus other races.

 
Tickets and holiday gift certificates can be purchased online at www.mosport.com or by calling the Mosport Ticket Hotline (1-800-866-1072).

 
For the news release and info about the Muscle Milk SCCA Trans-Am Series go to http://www.scca.com/newsarticle.aspx?hub=4&news=3541 .  For SPEED   World Challenge info and the 2009 schedule, visit www.world-challenge.com

(World Challenge GT action from Mosport. Photo credit - peterbrand.ca . High-rez photo is available.)
 
- 30 -
 
For Further Information: Jerry Priddle - jerry@mosport.com

<<SPEED GT At Mosport '08 - Brand.JPG>>

Chris Raabe Unwraps a NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Ride for 2009

There was hardly time to tuck it under the Christmas tree, but no one could forgive Napanee, Ontario’s Chris Raabe for tearing into a gift that’ll have him tearing around the speedways of the nation. Just over a month after collecting the hardware from his history-making 2008 season – including the Mr. DIRTcar sportsman championship – the 12th grader from Napanee and District Secondary School has been tabbed by veteran driver/team owner Peter Gibbons for a 5 race deal in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series.

After a career that spanned more than 20 years – including starts in what is now the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, the NASCAR Nationwide Tour, the ARCA Re/Max Series and the former NASCAR Sportsman Series, Gibbons – of Stouffville, Ontario – ran his final event as driver of the #1 Canadian Tire/Mobil Oil Chevrolet Saturday, September 27th at Kawartha Speedway. Still looking to be involved in the sport, Gibbons says his team wanted to put someone young and fast in the seat of his championship winning ride.

“It was time to give up driving – but not racing – and concentrate on some of the other business ventures Dennise and I had been working on over the past few years,” says Gibbons. “I think it’ll be great to mentor someone I feel has the ability to take the program we started to the next level”.

At just 17, Chris Raabe has turned-in championship winning performances at every level of competition, since his days behind the wheel of a go-kart at the age of 7. In 2008, he established a DIRTcar record 22 wins in 45 feature race starts for a batting average of 49%. His Mr. DIRTcar championship series title made him the youngest driver to wear the crown in the sanctioning body’s 33 year history.

“I’m very honoured to be given this opportunity and I’m thrilled that Peter and Dennise have asked me to take the wheel of their equipment,” says Raabe. “I have a tremendous amount of respect for Peter Gibbons as a driver and a first-class team owner. I hope to make the most of this chance I’m being given and be able to bring some marketing support to the program that will turn our 5 race deal into a long and healthy relationship”.

With headquarters in Stouffville, Ontario and Mooresville, North Carolina, Gibbons Motorsports will continue to field Chevrolet Monte Carlos, with GMS powerplants in their deal with Raabe. Gibbons says he’s confident the young hot-shoe will adjust well to the different racing environment.

“We plan to give Chris plenty of seat time and I’m sure his natural talent and ability will make the transition very smooth. He’s already done so much in his young career; it just makes sense to move him to the next level”.

Chris Raabe classifies this as the chance of a lifetime. He is also looking forward to securing an education and was recently named to receive an honours scholarship at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario where he will pursue a Mechanical Engineering degree.

The Gibbons Motorsports/Chris Raabe Chevrolet team is looking to secure sponsorship for the entire 2009 campaign, but will start with a 5 race deal. To learn more, please contact Peter Gibbons at
905.640.2209 or Garry McColman at 613.536.8093.

By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications

Raceline Radio Network Newsletter - December 11, 2008

Erik Tomas' Raceline Radio Network 'Tomas Tales'

www.raceline.ca

So I sit here trying to figure out how to start this TT.

Getting started writing something is not usually tough for me at all, but this time is different.

So it starts with the stunning words: We’ve lost John Massingberd.

The man who used to drive trucks and sell booze, who decided to do something about the pathetic coverage of Canadian auto racing on television and radio in this country, the man who plucked me away from morning sports in Toronto to launch Canada’s first nationally syndicated motor sport radio program, my full-time bill-paying job for the past 15 years, lost his battle with ALS.

John leaves in his 54th year. He was a year younger than I was.

I cannot believe it was this terrible disease. When John’s brother Paul broke the news to the staff, I rifled off the proper name of the ailment.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.

Most call it ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease. The legendary New York Yankees slugger was certainly not the first person afflicted with ALS, but he was one of the first high profile North Americans connected to it.

Years ago, when I was first breaking into broadcasting in Niagara Falls at CJRN, the station owner called me one night to ask a question. He was talking about ALS with some people and he wanted to know if I knew the proper name of the disease.

I looked it up and called him back with this long eye-chart looking name. Ever since them, I have always remembered how to pronounce the proper name. Some things just stick with you.

And now the man who’s directed my career for a decade and a half dies from it. It’s not fair and it’s not right.

John and I had a solid friendship, even though he was also the boss.

We had very listenable rapport on Raceline Radio. I wrote the script, booked the guests and co-anchored. I also wrote the questions for the guests.

I am not going to lie. John would often frustrate me no end because he wasn’t a professional broadcaster.

He would often trip over the words reading aloud. The process of reading aloud smoothly on the air at speed takes a lot of practice.

And John didn’t like to pre-read the script and practice.

But once the reading was done, interviewing drivers and talking to callers off the cuff is where he excelled.

So as a team, it worked very well.

Several years ago, so busy with Snow Trax in the winter, he didn’t want to work year-round, so he pulled himself off the radio show, so Raceline became a solo act for me.

But make absolutely no mistake, John Massingberd was the guy who decided to fix the problem of inadequate Canadian motor sport coverage on Radio and TV, with the help of mutual friend Bruce Mehlenbacher.

John was one of those rare people who, as we have already noted in other releases, had the ability to not only look to the horizon, but to see over it.

His loud, friendly, infectiously funny demeanor meant he had thousands of friends. Those friends including me are very sad.

His passing leaves a tremendous void that will never be filled.

Oh, we will carry on with Raceline Radio and companion properties Snow Trax and Dirt Trax Television.

But the founder is not here anymore, and it will take a long time to get around it.

I live by several mottos.

One of them is, “You never discover new horizons unless you have the courage to leave the shore”.

That sums up John’s life, and his impact on mine.

God Speed Boss… I will miss you.

ET

<<John Massingberd.jpg>>

Rick Young's 'Rick at the Races' December 10, 2008

As you'd expect for this time of year things have been quiet on the racing front, but web-master Craig Revelle has been very busy with his new project. His web site www.speedwaynostalgia.com has now been launched.

As the name suggests it deals with the 'days gone by' of his local Speedways of Eastern Ontario and the Seaway Valley tracks of upstate New York. The site is still in the construction stages but already there is some interesting content.

As well as many nostalgic photos of yesteryear the histories of the Brockville and now defunct Kingston Speedways are well documented. Keep checking it out for up dates and if you have anything of interest that Craig could use, please get in touch with him. It's a worthwhile project that will bring great memories back to those involved,  and educate people like myself, who are relatively new to the area.

My mail box has also been quiet this week, with a couple of exceptions, from Robert Wilms in the Netherlands and fellow UK media man Jerry Fisher. Jerry is currently touring South America and is taking a look at what ever oval racing he can find. Here's what he had to say.

<<Just a quick e-mail to say I flew down to Bahia Blancia for the weekend on Friday.
I am really impressed with this city and the area. And of course the Midget racing. This is the best racing I've seen in Argentina so far. They have a really good (American style) oval track here. And over 100 Midgets and more than 5,000 fans each week. Photo attached....full story coming in Short Circuit Mag soon>>

I'm looking forward to hearing more about it !

Robert's message was an update of the happenings in his area of the Netherlands. He lives in the province of Limburg where I spent a lot of time from the mid 1970's to the early 1990's. In  future 'RETRO' episodes on www.rickattheraces.com there will be plenty of coverage devoted to the happy times I spent in that area.

Back then, I regularly visited the Baarlo Auto Speedway near Venlo (unfortunately , now sitting dormant and not used) but in recent times the Venray track became popular. Objections and other B/S caused the track to close, but a replacement is under construction.

From Robert....

<< At Venray there is some good news. The new track is already under construction and hopefully there will be races at Eastern.

My PC crashed this weekend where all the pics of the new track were on. When I get new pics , I'll send them over.

Maybe a new tyre, 'Good Year' in 2009 for the F1's ( stock cars)

In our team the second F1 has arrived, so our total will be 2 tarmac ( paved) , 1 shale (dirt) and 8 F2's for tarmac and shale .

With a total of 4 drivers it will be a busy year for me as web-master ha ha. >>

Robert is web master for the Hendriks Racing Team based in Limburg and although we've been corresponding for some time, I met him for the first time during my BriSCA F1 World Final tour in the UK this past September.

Check out www.racingteamhendriks.com

PIC 1   Jerry Fisher photo from the Midget Racing track at Bahia Blancia in Argentina

PIC 2   On the left, Robert Wilms and another of my buddies Dave 'Smiffyman Smith' at Brafield 2008.

PIC 3   The # 57 F1 Stock Car of Theo Van Lier ( Hendriks Racing Team) at Brafield 2008

PIC 4   The # 65 F2 Stock Car of Joep Hendriks almost turns over at Brafield 2008

<<DSCF0041(1) (Medium).jpg>> <<2008_0822Image0212 (Medium).jpg>> <<2008_0822Image0253 (Medium).jpg>> <<2008_0822Image0234 (Medium).jpg>>

HISTORIC PHOTO GALLERY: ALSTAR & Vintage Mods at Cayuga, Aug. 8, 1999... by davefranksphotos.com

This is a 35-photo gallery from Cayuga Speedway on Sunday, Aug. 8, 1999. Dave Franks has kindly offered to share some of his historic shots to help us all get through the off-season. You can see Dave's website here.

Motorcycles: Turn 2 Sportsbike School announces big plans for 2009

For Immediate Release
Turn 2 Sportbike School
George Budacki // 905-973-0575 // george.budacki@turn2.ca // http://www.turn2.ca

Hamilton, ON – Dec 10, 2008 – The Turn 2 Sportbike School is a newly released division of Turn 2 Sportbike Rentals Inc., Canada’s first and only successful track-bike rental company.  The new division was created to better reflect its goal of becoming the premiere performance riding and road racing school in Canada.  In addition to this new venture, Turn 2 has expanded its rental fleet, as well as established two new partnerships with Dunlop/Pro 6 Cycle Inc. and Calabogie Motorsports Park.

The most recent news for Turn 2 is the signing of an exclusive 3-year deal with Calabogie Motorsports Park, near Ottawa, Ontario.  The Turn 2 Sportbike School is pleased to have Calabogie as home base and offer its Advanced Riding Course (ARC) to the ever growing clientele in the area.  Budacki anticipates that “the flawless F-1 spec asphalt and challenging 20 turn, 5.05 km (3.05 mile) layout of Calabogie will draw clientele from all over North America.”

Turn 2 is pleased to now offer 4 levels of ARC for 2009.  In addition to its already popular ARC Level 1 and 2 are the new ARC Level 0.5 and ARC Level X.

ARC Level 1 teaches students theory, body positioning, smooth acceleration & braking, up/down shifting, as well as side-by-side proximity riding, and more!

ARC Level 2 is designed for ARC Level 1 graduates or more experienced riders desiring to “become one with the machine” and learn proper suspension set up and tuning, bike geometry that wasn’t taught in grade 11 math class, as well as advanced riding and racing techniques.

ARC Level 0.5, which is new for 2009, has been developed for brand new riders or those who have never thought in their wildest dreams of riding a motorcycle. This entry level course is taught in a safe, massive parking lot, not on the race track, with beginner friendly motorcycles.

ARC Level X, also new for 2009, is for advanced riders and taught by top Canadian Pro racers only. This premium course is designed to help riders shave seconds off their lap times with the help of GPS data acquisition and on-board video.  “We integrated GPS and on-board video into our ARC 2 program back in 2008” Budacki said “but we found that is was just too overwhelming for the students with all of the other aspects taught in ARC 2.” 

All of Turn 2’s male and female instructors have a knack for teaching on a personal level as well as sharing their on-track experiences and victories. Along with many bilingual instructors, there are several who are currently involved, or have been, in all levels of racing from top Factory Pros, to Amateur to the Women’s Cup Challenge series.

ARC sessions are deliberately kept small, with no more than 5 students per instructor on track, and plenty of time between sessions to address any questions or issues students may be having on the track with their ability or with their bike.  All levels of Turn 2’s ARC provide options for students to bring their own track-prepped bike and gear, or rent from the extensive fleet.

Turn 2 is excited to introduce the newest addition to the extensive rental fleet - the 2009 Aprilia RS125 2-stroke GP bike.  This is a machine that symbolizes Aprilia's supremacy in the European 125 market and is now back, completely renewed in design, style and technology.  It is today's bike for tomorrow's champions, and best of all, it’s available in Canada!

Turn 2 will continue to supply sport motorcycles for trackday rentals to existing clients and successful ARC graduates.  All rentals are exclusively available at most trackdays held by our new trackday partner, Pro 6 Cycle Inc., who also supplies the latest Dunlop race tires for the rental fleet as well as the Canadian racing and trackday market.

“Our rental programs take the hassle out of owning, transporting, maintaining and repairing your own bike” said Turn 2 owner, George Budacki. “Plus” he added “our rental prices are hard to beat when compared to running your own bike.”

Regardless of level, Turn 2’s focus is to provide a safe environment for riders to learn all of the necessities for riding at higher speeds than they would ever achieve on the street, along with the ability to learn and set new limits without going out of their comfort zone.

Finally, riders itching to get back on track and save a few dollars in the process are invited to take advantage of a holiday special.  Pre-register for any of Turn 2’s ARC levels on/or before March 31, 2009 and we will ‘Pay the Taxes’. Your name can also be registered in a draw for a free set of Dunlop Motorcycle Track Tires valued at $350!  More details can be found at the company’s website www.turn2.ca.

Hurricane Midgets Racing Club 2008 Season Summary

The Hurricane Midgets Racing Club would like to thank all of our sponsors and fans for another successful year in 2008. The Hurricane Midgets are still the best deal on wheels for high speed versus low cost. Hurricane Midgets run 440cc snowmobile motors on a sprint-style chassis and reach speeds of 100mph.

With the increase in the cost of fuel for teams to travel and heavy amounts of rain being a problem at tracks all over southern Ontario this summer the Hurricane Midgets only missed 3 race dates, unfortunately all 3 were at Peterborough Speedway. The Hurricane Midgets had a 14 race schedule that included Peterborough, Varney, Sunset, Flamboro, Grand Bend and Sauble in 2008. Thanks to all the tracks for making us welcome and putting on a great show every night, our race at Sauble Saturday June 7th was a memorable one as the weather was hot, the track was excellent, the track officials were fantastic and the fans were pumped! We had 4 different heat winners that night and 15 cars started the feature for close racing action all over the track.

This year Better Business Equipment Inc. from Port Hope, Ontario sponsored the “Copier Cup” which was a six-race series at Peterborough Speedway. Cash prizes and trophies were awarded to the top 3 drivers at the end of the series. Special thanks to Better Business Equipment Inc. for their support and congratulations to Cale Bailey 1st place, Brian Woodland 2nd place and Jack Swanston 3rd place. The final race at Peterborough Speedway was Saturday October 11th for their annual Autumn Colours Classic. That was the final Copier Cup night and the final points race for the 2008 Championship. Cale Bailey #67 took the checkers in dominating fashion over Brian Woodland #48, followed by Nathan Meneely #13 and Brent McLean #47. Eleven cars started the feature and it was a clean race with all drivers making a great effort for the final points night.

The 2008 Championship was won by Cale Bailey #67 of Port Hope, ON with 1,702 points, second place went to Brian Woodland #48 of Orangeville, ON with 1,591 points and in third place was Jack Swanston of Oakville, ON with 1,500 points. The following additional awards for the 2008 season were presented at the year-end banquet held at Tucker’s Marketplace in Burlington on November 1st: Rookie of the Year, Brent McLean #47 of Conn, ON; and Charles Priestley #15 of Brantford, ON was voted Sportsman of the Year and Most Improved Driver. The Hurricane Midgets would also like to thank Jack Swanston and Nancy Dingman for their many years of management and the time and effort they put in to everything they do for the club.

The Hurricane Midgets will have a few new faces next season as new cars are being built and old ones are changing hands. We look forward to another exciting year in 2009 and invite everyone to join us at the tracks and to visit our website at www.hurricanemidgetsracingclub.com

From Jackie Francis / Hurricane Midgets

NHRA: TONY SCHUMACHER NAMED 2008 DRIVER OF THE YEAR

GLENDORA, Calif. – NHRA POWERade Series Top Fuel world champion Tony Schumacher has been named the 2008 DRIVER OF THE YEAR, it was announced today by Barry Schmoyer, president of the Driver of the Year Foundation, based in Sarasota, Fla.

Schumacher, from Chicago, had a dominating season behind the wheel of his U.S. Army dragster and becomes only the third NHRA driver to win the DRIVER OF THE YEAR award in its 42-year history. Funny Car icon John Force also won the prestigious award in 1996 and Pro Stock great Greg Anderson claimed the trophy in 2004. Other past winners have included such racing greats as Mario Andretti, who was the first winner in 1967, Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt, A.J. Foyt, Al Unser and Darrell Waltrip.

Schumacher raced to 15 victories and won his fifth consecutive and sixth overall NHRA POWERade Series world championship crown during a record-breaking 2008 season. He was also named the DRIVER OF THE YEAR third quarter winner.

“What an honor it is to be singled out as the Driver of the Year for 2008,” Schumacher said. “I’m happy that the NHRA is front and center again with this award. It’s been a few years since Greg Anderson won it. Of course, John Force also won it in 1996. You can’t forget the living legend himself.

“Needless to say, I wouldn’t be receiving any post-season award without the talented team that surrounded me this past season. My crew chief, Alan Johnson, and the entire crew deserve all the credit in the world. There’s no denying the fact that we had one of those dream seasons.”

The DRIVER OF THE YEAR title is unique because a select panel of 18 leading journalists and broadcasters from across the U.S. are the only eligible voters via a secret ballot. The vote usually comes down to one or two drivers, however this year proved to be particularly difficult for the panel. In the final tally it was one of the closest votes in the history of the award, with Schumacher getting six votes, while NASCAR’s Jimmie Johnson and Carl Edwards each received five votes. Kyle Busch and Tony Stewart, also from NASCAR, received one vote each.

“Usually one driver has a standout season, but this year there were a handful of guys who were all viable candidates for this award,” Schmoyer said.

Schumacher will be presented with a trophy and Tissot wristwatch next April at the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in Talladega, Ala.

Tom Compton Quote -Tony Schumacher Named Driver of the Year:

“It is an incredible accomplishment and a testament to the high level of commitment and teamwork showcased by Tony Schumacher and the entire U.S. Army team during the 2008 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing season,” said Tom Compton, president, NHRA.   “It is a prestigious honor that only two other NHRA drivers – John Force and Greg Anderson – have previously won in the long history of the award.   On behalf of NHRA and all of its competitors, we appreciate the media that recognized the outstanding accomplishments put together by Tony and the U.S. Army team against some extremely tough competition.”

Tony Schumacher 2008 Accomplishments:

*Won fifth consecutive and sixth overall Top Fuel world championship

*First driver in NHRA history to win five consecutive Top Fuel championships

*Moved past NHRA legend Joe Amato to become the all-time Top Fuel wins leader (56 victories); ranks sixth in victories among all NHRA pro drivers

*Established Top Fuel records for most championship titles (6), career victories (56), season wins (15), consecutive wins (7), consecutive final rounds (11), most final rounds (18), consecutive round wins (31)

*Tied all-time NHRA record for wins in a season (15, Greg Anderson in 2004) and elimination round wins in a season (76, Greg Anderson in 2004)

*Raced to 15 victories in 18 final round appearances in 24 events; His eliminations round winning percentage was 90%

*Won prestigious U.S. Nationals at Indianapolis for the sixth time in his career

*Swept the Western Swing (won trio of races at Denver, Seattle in Sonoma, Calif. in consecutive weeks); only the sixth driver in NHRA history to accomplish the feat

*Raced to nine No. 1 qualifying performances

*Clinched championship title during qualifying at penultimate race (Las Vegas 2)

DRIVER OF THE YEAR winners:

2008 - Tony Schumacher
2007 - Jimmie Johnson
2006 – Jimmie Johnson
2005 – Tony Stewart
2004 - Greg Anderson
2003 - Ryan Newman
2002 - Cristiano da Matta
2001 - Jeff Gordon
2000 - Bobby Labonte
1999 - Dale Jarrett
1998 - Jeff Gordon
1997 - Jeff Gordon
1996 - John Force
1995 - Jeff Gordon
1994 - Dale Earnhardt
1993 - Nigel Mansell
1992 - Bobby Rahal       
1991 - Michael Andretti 
1990 - Al Unser Jr.
1989 - Emerson Fittipaldi
1988 - Bill Elliott
1987 - Dale Earnhardt
1986 - Bobby Rahall
1985 - Bill Elliott
1984 - Mario Andretti
1983 - Bobby Allison
1982 - Darrell Waltrip
1981 - Darrell Waltrip
1980 - Johnny Rutherford
1979 - Darrell Waltrip
1978 - Mario Andretti
1977 - Cale Yarborough
1976 - David Pearson
1975 - A.J. Foyt
1974 - Bobby Unser
1973 - David Pearson
1972 - Bobby Allison
1971 - Richard Petty
1970 - Al Unser
1969 - Lee Roy Yarbrough
1968 - Mark Donohue
1967 - Mario Andretti

From Anthony Vestal / NHRA

TW Steel Unveils 24 Hours Series Limited Edition

Amsterdam, The Netherlands (December 09, 2008) – TW Steel will launch into 2009 as an official event sponsor to the ‘Toyo Tires 24 Hours of Dubai’, hosted at the Dubai Autodrome in the United Arab Emirates, Friday 9th – Saturday 10th January 2009.

The twice around the clock endurance race has rapidly established itself as a key fixture in the Middle East racing calendar with the 5.39km Dubai Autodrome expected to see up to 90 cars entered representing a truly international field of professional and semi-pro teams and drivers – last year’s endurance spectacular witnessing 35 nations represented on the starting grid.

To celebrate its involvement in the ’24 Hours of Dubai’, TW Steel has produced a limited edition ’24 Hour Series’ watch, the TW800. Just 1750 have been produced with the watch based on the highly successful TW11 model.

The 50mm case, made from high grade steel and water resistant to 100 meters, is 15mm thick housing a precise quartz chronograph movement. With the TW800 upholding TW Steel’s ability to deliver unique design with advanced technology, added features include fast date adjustment and a stylish calf leather strap with distinctive orange stitching.

“We were excited to produce the TW800 limited edition as part of our relationship with the ’24 Hours of Dubai,” stated TW Steel’s Managing Director Jordy Cobelens. “Quality, timing and precision are all key factors in each TW Steel model and those qualities are perfectly reflected in the TW800 and they’re also the attributes required by those taking to the grid in Dubai in January. It’s a great event and we’re delighted to be associated with it.”

TW Steel has emerged as a leader in the field of oversized watches. The Dutch company, its name meaning ‘The Watch in Steel’, has tapped into a burgeoning market for unique-looking time pieces and with a growing worldwide appeal. TW Steel has a global network of distributors to ensure continued growth in a market hungry for large, distinctive watches.

ENDS – www.twsteel.com

Pro Modified Racing Association teams meet with positive results

HAMILTON, ONTARIO (December 8, 2008) – Team owners, drivers, car builders, officials and members of the Pro Modified Racing Association met recently to discuss issues and prepare for the upcoming 2009 racing season.

Chaired by PMRA Director of Operations Bruce Mehlenbacher, several items were addressed by the group, including team membership, safety, the points structure, payouts, qualifying procedures, and track venues.

The PMRA will be entering its fifth season of competition in 2009, and Mehlenbacher has already confirmed race dates at Cayuga Dragway for at least two events, along with Grand Bend Motorplex, St. Thomas Dragway for two-day races. He mentioned he is working with tracks in Michigan, New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania as well as Quebec with the plan of presenting a seven event PMRA Drag Racing Series for 2009.

Other topics included emergency procedures and personnel and track preparation.

The mood of the meeting was upbeat and positive with most in attendance offering suggestions and ideas. It was decided that the group would reassemble in the New Year after the confirmation of more race dates.

For more information, contact Bruce F. Mehlenbacher at mehlenbacher@ProModifiedRacing.com.

About the Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA): The Pro Modified Racing Association, www.ProModifiedRacing.com , was organized late in 2004, started racing operations in 2005, and is entering its fifth year of operation in 2009. The PMRA is a self-governing organization with input from its teams, and adheres to the technical and safety rules as outlined by the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) and the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). The series has event venues in Ontario, Quebec, and New York State.

Cars in the PMRA capture the true spirit of hot rodding, and the class is one of drag racing’s most exciting and colorful classes, offering a diverse group of race cars with different types of 2,500-horsepower supercharged, nitrous powered and turbocharged engines.

Combining classic body styles and modern equipment, constructors are permitted, within established rules and parameters, to modify and enhance the cars in both appearance and performance. The cars are fuelled by gasoline or methanol, propelling them down the quarter-mile in low six-second times at over 200 miles per hour. The PMRA provides drag race fans the opportunity to see, hear, and experience the popular Pro Modifieds, known as "the world's fastest door slammers".

For more information, please contact:
Bruce F. Mehlenbacher
Director of Operations
Telephone: (905) 772-1800 Ext. #22
Cellular: (905) 517-5345
E-mail: Mehlenbacher@ProModifiedRacing.com

Tim Miller
Media Director
Telephone: (905) 870-1456
E-mail: TMiller@ProModifiedRacing.com

RYAN LITT: Back to the friendly confines...

By Tommy Goudge (December 8, 2008) – Once a regular on the indoor racing circuit each winter, it has now been almost 3 years since Ryan Litt of Lyons, Ontario last competed with a roof over his head.  That will change on December 26 and 27 when Ryan will once again “Rumble in Fort Wayne”, driving Eddie Griffith’s Ford Focus powered Beast #41 midget car sponsored by BS&B Radiator, OTC Tools, Huron Produce, Leaf Racewear, and Gould Body and Paint.

Ryan last competed in a midget car - and last competed indoors - during the 2005 edition of the Rumble in Fort Wayne, qualifying 6th out of a field of 34, winning his heat race, and finishing 6th in the A-Main.  Since moving to full size race cars in 2003, Ryan has competed indoors 7 times, including 4 times on the concrete floor at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum in Fort Wayne, Indiana.  His best finish at Fort Wayne is a 6th place, which he accomplished on 2 occasions officially, although a penalty relegated him to that 6th position in 2004 after he crossed the stripe 2nd. 

Ryan’s best career finish indoors came on January 16, 2005 when he brought the Griffith #41 home 4th in the A-Main on the dirt at the Southern Illinois Center in DuQuoin, IL.  Ryan’s name is one of many on the long and illustrious list of drivers who have been behind the wheel of the Griffith #41 over the years, which includes names such as Andy Hillenburg, Kenny Wallace, Johnny Parsons III, Stevie Reeves, Mike Bliss, Doug Kalitta, Donnie Adams, Ralph Ligouri, Dan Drinan, Joe Gaerte, Tracy Hines, and even fellow Canadian Alison MacLeod.

RYAN’S NOTES ‘n QUOTES:

BACK INSIDE: “I'm really excited to go indoor racing again, and being back with Eddie is even better. He is a great guy to drive for, and he knows what it takes to go fast (indoors).  As always, I wouldn't have this opportunity if it wasn't for my team and my sponsors - I'm really grateful to have a good group of people who support me”

CHANGE OF PLANS: “We didn't plan on doing any indoor racing this winter but a couple of days ago our team got together and everyone wanted to go to Ft Wayne.  I guess everyone has the racing bug after ending the season off with a win at Berlin.”

FOCUS FUN: “Fort Wayne owes us one. I'm going in there to have some fun and see what we can get done with the #41. It would be awesome to win, but indoor racing is tricky, and it takes a lot of luck to do well.  We will be a little under-powered compared to some of the national midgets, but it may be an advantage to us - it all depends on the track. Sometimes when those bigger motors are spinning the tires, the Focus engine is getting grip and driving forward. That's what makes indoor racing so neat - to have all different types of configurations running, and each one has it's advantage on different parts of the track.”

WHAT: “Rumble in Fort Wayne” Midget Racing
www.RumbleSeries.com
WHERE: Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
4000 Parnell Avenue
Fort Wayne, Indiana 46805
Phone: (260) 482-9502
On The Web: www.MemorialColiseum.com

WHEN: Friday, December 26 and Saturday, December 27, 2008
7:00 AM Pit Gates Open (8:00 Sat.), 9:00 AM Pit & Driver Meetings, 9:45 AM Practice Begins, 4:00 PM Rumble Midget Time Trials, 6:00-6:45 PM Autographs/Interviews, 7:00 PM Featured Events. 

Ryan and the team would like to thank all their sponsors for their continued support during Ryan's 2008 season, including OTC Tools, BS&B Radiator, Linton Media, Linde Gases, Leaf Racewear, Xtreme Metal Worx, and Huron Produce Ltd. For more information on Ryan and the team, including schedules, news releases, photos, NEW merchandise, and contact information, please visit Ryan's official website powered by Linton Media at www.RyanLitt.com

AIM Autosport - Team announces drivers for 2009 Rolex 24 @ Daytona

Woodbridge, Ontario - December 7, 2008: AIM Autosport announces the complete driver lineup in the No. 61 Ford Riley for the 2009 Rolex 24 at Daytona teaming regular drivers Mark Mark Wilkins and Burt Frisselle with Alex Figge and John Farano. Alex and John will be at the wheel of AIM's No. 51 Ford Riley the rest of the season. David Empringham, who anchored the 2007 AIM entry in their maiden Rolex 24, has signed on as a reserve.

Originally planning to run two cars at Daytona with Farano and Figge taking the lead in AIM's new car, the No. 51 Ford Riley, the decision was made to combine resources and put the effort behind the No. 61 which will be running the entire season in search of a series championship in 2009. Farano recently put the 51 car through its paces during the October and November test days at Daytona using the time to become acquainted with Daytona Prototypes.

John Farano has spent the last few seasons competing in the Ferrari Challenge and has run select Grand Am Rolex races in a Mustang GT. He has previously competed in the Rolex 24. Alex Figge first raced in the Rolex Sports Car Series in 2005 running seven races in both GT and DP. He would run a full season of DP in 2006 before moving to Champ car in 2007. For 2008, Alex competed in a GT2 Ferrari in the ALMS.

"Following the 24, John and Alex have committed to a partial schedule in the No. 51 and may consider completing the season," commented AIM Autosport team principal Ian Willis, "but when we looked at the economics of running two cars for the Rolex 24, it was decided to run the four drivers we had and get a good start on the season for the No. 61."

He continued, "While we had some very well-know and experienced drivers lined up to take the extra seats in both cars, the sponsorship necessary to field that sort of effort just did not exist for us at this time. It's a shame as we were hoping for a good show to launch the program with the 51 car. In the meantime though, we are confident that John and Alex will do a great job for us in January. Both tested extremely well. Alex has previously raced in Daytona Prototypes and John has come up to speed very quickly."

"We are pretty happy with the driver mix going into the next test days," commented Mark Wilkins. "Burt, David and myself already have a good comfort level with one another having done this race together before and after spending time with Alex and John, we are confident we can get the job done. Everyone is on the same page going into the January test and we know what the goal is for the team and the No. 61."

Burt Frisselle had this to add. "The Rolex 24 Hour is the ultimate team race, and I am thrilled to have John, Alex and Dave join Mark and me this January. This line up will no doubt give us the experience, consistency, and speed that it takes to win an event where one mishap can take you out of contention.  I can't wait for the test days to arrive so we can all begin the process of working together to win the 2009 Rolex 24."

The team and drivers head to Daytona International Speedway January 3-5 for final testing ahead of the Rolex 24 which takes place January 24-25.

AIM Autosport Facts: Established in 1995, AIM Autosport  has a mandate to identify, train and manage emerging motorsport talent. AIM has provided many young drivers with a solid foundation on which to build a career in professional racing. The success of the AIM driver development programs has been achieved through the dedication of our employees and the ongoing support of our commercial and technical partners. Away from the track, AIM Autosport serves the needs of the racing community with a purpose-built preparation shop situated in the Toronto suburb of Woodbridge, Ontario. AIM fields the No. 61 Ford Riley with drivers Mark Wilkins and Burt Frisselle and the No. 51 Ford Riley with drivers John Farano and Alex Figge in the Rolex Grand Am series. The team also competes in the Star Madza Championship presented by Goodyear. AIM won the 2008 Championship with driver John Edwards.

From Chris Jameson / Level Ten Communications

Augie Grill Wins 41st Annual Snowball Derby

From Matt Kentfield, 51 Sports

Augie Grill Wins 41st Annual Snowball Derby
Alabama Native Wins Second Straight Derby at Five Flags Speedway

PENSACOLA, FL (December 7, 2008) – Augie Grill won his second straight Snowball Derby at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola, Florida on Sunday night.  Grill actually finished the 41st annual edition of the race in the second position, but was awarded the victory after Brian Ickler’s car was found to have an unapproved brake cooling fan.

Grill started the race in the 38th position and steadily worked his way through the pack to become a race contender.  He led the middle stages of the race, but found himself with some ground to make up after the final pit stops.  Over the last dozen laps of the race, Grill gained ground on Ickler on the racetrack, but came a little bit short of catching him.

Approximately two hours after the race, Grill received word of his victory and celebrated with a small group of fans, family, friends and crew members.

With the change, Grant Enfinger now moves up to second place.  He was followed in the rundown by Matt Hawkins, Shane Sieg, Bubba Pollard, David Rodgers, Hunter Robbins, Dennis Schoenfeld, Heath Hindman and Paul Kelley.

The 41st Annual Snowball Derby concludes the 2008 racing season at Five Flags Speedway.

For more information on the Blizzard Series and the 41st Annual Snowball Derby event, contact Matt Kentfield at (704) 788-2134 x 5 and visit www.fiveflagsspeedway.com and www.snowballderby.com

Unofficial Results
1st) #112 - Augie Grill
2nd) #82 Grant Enfinger
3rd) #22 Matt Hawkins
4th) #52 Shane Sieg
5th) #26 Bubba Pollard
6th) #11 David Rodgers
7th) #6 Hunter Robbins
8th) #43 Dennis Schoenfeld
9th) #91 Heath Hindman
10th) #23 Paul Kelley
11th) #2 John Bolen
12th) #51H Alex Haase
13th) #54 Johnny Clark
14th) #51 Ryan Preece
15th) #98 Justin Wakefield
16th) #0 David Hole
17th) #31 Tyler Millwood
18th) #21 Scott Carlson
19th) #66 Benny Gordon
20th) #7 Gary St. Amant
21st) #82W Donnie Wilson
22nd) #38H Josh Hamner
23rd) #70 Joey Senter
24th) #72 Scott Hantz
25th) #84 Wayne Anderson
26th) #39 Ryan Sieg
27th) #94 Mitch Cobb
28th) #44 Gary Helton
29th) #10L Johanna Long
30th) #27 Jason Young
31st) #1 Eddie Mercer
32nd) #11L Donald Long
33rd) #49 Stanley Smith
34th) #1M Tim Martin
35th) #67 Jeff Fultz
36th) #41 Chris Davidson
37th) #10C Ryan Crane
38th) #90 Tim Curry
39th) #99S Casey Smith
40th) #02 Matt Smith
DQ) #15 Brian Ickler