Saturday, May 23, 2009
NCATS: St-Eustache Results
NCATS: St-Eustache - lap 110
NCATS: St-Eustache lap 43 update
Lap 49... Ranger takes lead from Steckly on restart.
NASCAR Canadian Tire Series: St-Eustache qualifying notes
A total of 19 cars took part in qualifying for tonight's 250 lap race.
In other St-Eustache news, promoter Alan Labrosse announced that former Canadian F1 champ Jacques Villeneuve will drive Dave Jacombs' #7 in the season's second NCATS race at the Montreal area oval, in July. Canadian motorcycle legend Miguel Duhamel is druvung the #7 tonight.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Merrittville Speedway: May 23 event preview... CAA Niagara Night
Thorold, Ontario (May 22) – CAA Niagara Night at Merrittville Speedway will focus on Mechanics in an action-packed night at Dirt Track racing action – Saturday May 23rd.
Mechanics play a major role in every one of Merrittville Speedway’s 5 Lucas Oil Weekly Racing Series Divisions and so while drivers form the L. St. Amand Enterprises 358 Modifieds, Original Pizza Logs Sportsman, Hoosier Stocks, Modern Corporation Open Wheel Lites and Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinders compete in qualifying and feature events – the mechanics will also share the spotlight.
“When you see each feature winner in Victory Lane,” informs (Merrittville GM) Erica Bicknell, “you always see a group come across the infield to celebrate with their driver … every race team has some amount of support … this is their time to shine!”
So every race team has an equal shot and no chance to do some homework – the details of the Mechanics Event will not be released until CAA Night May 23rd prior to the start of the event.
“CAA Niagara just completed some training for their drivers here,” adds Bicknell, “and like the Tow Truck operators that come to your aid on the road … participants in our Mechanics Event won’t know what to expect until the start of our competition.”
CAA Niagara is pleased to once again provide Merrittville Speedway race teams with the best towing services available in the Niagara Region. Race fans can enjoy the same fast, friendly and professional service by becoming a member of CAA Niagara.
CAA Niagara serves 113,000 members in the Niagara Region with offices in Grimsby, Niagara Falls, St. Catharines, Thorold and Welland.
For year round peace of mind and member exclusive savings, you can rely on your friends at CAA Niagara. Join at your local CAA office today and start enjoying yearlong benefits of being a CAA Member and tell them Merrittville sent you.
In addition to its Auto Club, CAA can also offer it’s members Travel Information and Bookings, discounted Attraction Tickets and service at the CAA Car Care Centre – located on Lake Street in St. Catharines.
CAA Niagara’s Car Care Centre is a 12-bay, state-of-the-art vehicle repair and maintenance facility.
For further information on becoming a CAA Member – stop by their display inside the front gates at Merrittville Speedway May 23rd or visit www.caa.niagara.net
Gates open Saturday May 23rd at 5:30. Showtime is at 7:00.
Merrittville Speedway is located at 2371 Merrittville Highway in Thorold Ontario in the heart of Niagara. Race fans can visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com or call the 24 Hour Raceline at 905-892-8266 for event information.
From Jim Irvine / Merrittville Speedway
A TRIO OF STAR MAZDA GRADUATES IN THE FIELD FOR THE INDY 500 – MARCO ANDRETTI, GRAHAM RAHAL AND FASTEST ROOKIE RAPHAEL MATOS
Remarkably, all three were competitors in the Star Mazda Championship during the 2005 season. And they're part of the closest qualifying field in Indy 500 history; Helio Castroneves won the pole with a 4-lap average speed of 224.864 mph and Ryan Hunter-Reay's speed of 220.597 mph earned him the 33rd-spot in the field. From the fastest to the slowest, the field is separated by just 4.267 mph and 3.0967 seconds.
"It makes us very proud to see our graduates moving up in the racing world and nothing would please us more than to see one win the Indy 500," says series founder and President Gary Rodrigues. "We designed the Star Mazda Championship to be the most competitive, educational and affordable driver development series in the world and success stories like these prove that we're still on the right track. Like the Indy 500, we had a 33-car field for our most recent race and the talent pool this year is both deep and very diverse with drivers from seven countries. We have every expectation of seeing some of those names listed among the qualifiers for future Indy 500s."
Raphael Matos, a Brazilian racer from Belo Horizonte, was the 2005 Star Mazda series champion with wins in the first four races of the season (Sebring, Road Atlanta, Mid-Ohio, Montreal), three poles and seven podium finishes during the 12-race season. As the first graduate of the prestigious MAZDASPEED Motorsports Driver Development Ladder, Matos went on to race in the Atlantic Championship Powered by Mazda in 2006, returning in 2007 to win the series championship. In 2008, he won the Indy Lights championship in his rookie year; that same year he co-drove the winning GT class car in the Rolex 24 at Daytona and the winning Daytona Prototype in the Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series season finale at Miller Motorsports Park.
Matos was signed in late 2008 by the Luzco Dragon IRL team, co-owned by Stephen J. Luczo and Jay Penske, son of legendary team owner Roger Penske. He posted a four-lap average of 223.429 mph in the No. 2 Air Force Luczo Dragon Racing car to qualify 12th and earned the "Fastest Rookie Award" presented by the American Dairy Association of Indiana.
Graham Rahal, son of Indy 500 winner Bobby Rahal was a contemporary of Matos' during the 2005 Star Mazda Championship season, winning one race (Portland) and scoring five podium finishes on his way to a 4th-place finish in the point battle. His victory in Portland made him the youngest race winner ever in the history of the series at the age of 16. Like Matos, he moved up to compete in the Champ Car Formula Atlantic Championship in 2006, finishing second in the points and becoming the youngest winner ever of an Atlantics race. His accomplishments also included the record for most race wins, with five victories, most laps led, most fastest race laps (five events), highest ranking prize money winner, best average qualifying position, posted new qualifying lap records at three events, and new lap records at four tracks. That year he also competed in final three rounds of inaugural season of A1 Grand Prix with A1 Team Lebanon, and raced in his first endurance sports car race ever when he was the youngest driver in the 2006 Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona at the age of 17.
In 2007, Rahal made his debut in the Champ Car World Series with Newman/Haas/ Lanigan Racing; he finished second in only the third race of the season, again making him the youngest ever podium finisher in Champ Car history. With the unification of Champ Car and the IRL in 2008, he drove the No. 06 Hole in the Wall Camps entry and became the youngest winner in IndyCar Series history when he drove to victory in his series debut in St. Pete at the age of 19 years and 93 days old. For the 2009 Indy 500 he posted a four-lap average of 223.954 mph in the No. 02 McDonald's Newman/Haas/ Lanigan car to qualify on the inside of the second row.
Marco Andretti finished 5th in the 2005 Star Mazda Championship, with results that included a podium finish at Infineon Raceway, three top-5s and eight top-10 finishes. It was a busy year as he also competed in six Indy Lights races, starting from the pole twice and winning three. He graduated to the Indy Racing League in 2006, scoring his first career victory at Infineon Raceway and becoming the youngest driver (19 years, five months and 14 days) to win a major open-wheel race. He finished second in his first-ever Indy 500 (the second-closest finish in the event's history) and won the IRL 'Rookie of the Year' award. In 2007 he led 13 laps at the Indy 500 and finished 11th in the championship with a pair of podium finishes and four top-5 results. In 2008, Andretti became the youngest pole position winner in Indy-car history when he turned the top time in qualifying at Milwaukee, the same track where his father, Michael Andretti, earned his first Indy Car pole. He led 15 laps at the Indy 500 and finished third. Broadening his resume, Andretti also competed in the A1 GP and ALMS series, including the remarkable achievement of running both an ALMS race and an Indy Car race on the same day. For the 2009 season, he is currently 7th in the overall points standings, just 27 points behind championship leader Tony Kanaan, and put the No. 26 Venom Energy car 8th on the grid on his second qualifying attempt with a four-lap average of 223.114 mph.
Providing compelling testimony to the 'gateway' nature of the Star Mazda Championship, providing an entry to many forms of racing, seven of the drivers in Friday's Freedom 100 Indy Lights grid – nearly one-third of the field, are Star Mazda Graduates, including Jay Howard, Daniel Herrington, James Davison, Andrew Hinchcliffe, Andrew Prendeville, Michael Potekhen and Pablo Donoso.
Other graduates of the series include 2004 champion Michael McDowell, who went on to race Grand-Am prototypes, Champ Cars and is now competing in NASCAR. 2007 Star Mazda champion Dane Cameron (right) competed in the 2008 Atlantic championship and is currently co-driving the full 2009 Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series GT season in the No. 30 Racers Edge / Marquis Jet / Total Petroleum / Piloti Mazda RX-8. 2008 series champion John Edwards, now leading the 2009 Cooper Tires Presents the Atlantic Championship Powered by Mazda as driver for the No. 36 MAZDASPEED/ Nuclear Clean Air Energy/Entergy machine fielded by Newman Wachs Racing. Swiss racer Natacha Gachnang, who made Star Mazda series history with back-to-back podium finishes in 2007, is again breaking new ground as the first female racer in the new 2009 FIA Formula Two Championship. She will be joined on the grid by the youngest driver on the grid in the 2008 Star Mazda season, Tom Gladdis.
For 2009, the Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear features an 11-weekend, 13-race schedule on major race weekends with American Le Mans, Grand-Am, the Atlantic Championship, NASCAR Nationwide and Craftsman Truck Series. Prize money is $1.5 million, including a fully-funded drive in the 2010 Atlantic Championship courtesy of the MAZDASPEED Motorsports Driver Development Ladder. Drivers 16 and older are welcome to compete and the Star Mazda Championship also features Expert (30 to 44) and Master (45 and older) classes for more mature racers. The Star Mazda Championship features standing starts, wheel-to-wheel racing at 150 mph and budgets a fraction of other top open-wheel ladder series.
FW: Delaware Speedway Insider
Delaware Speedway Insider ... O'TOOLS RENT OR BUY NIGHT
Race Date: May 22, 2009
Making up for lost time!
To say mother nature has not been very cooperative may be an understatement when talking about the season so far at Delaware Speedway. However it's the fans who stand to bennifit from this - - this Friday night we play catch up with double features in the weekly classes!
It’s a double features night with three of our great weekly classes racing in the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series. A special added treat is the drivers of the Transmission Direct Enduro series coming out to run their first challenge race of the year. The challenge race is a 35-lap race that promises to be a great way to close off the evening. If the race is even half as exciting as the last enduro, we'll be talking about it for a long time! Don’t miss out on the action this Friday night! Gates open at 6:00 pm, racing starts at 8:00 pm.
The New Sound System is Installed!
The speedway has a whole new atmosphere after installation of the brand new sound system was completed last week. Fans we spoke to loved the new depth the sound system offers and how clear everything sounds. See if you notice the difference this week!
Everyone loves toonie hotdogs...
Toonie hotdogs will be available through the main concession stand from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm! Arrive early, find your favourite spot on the hill and head over to the new concession stand and try our brand new hotdogs!
Krown Junior Racing League Starts Next Week!
The 30+ drivers of the Krown Body Maintenance Junior Racing League will hit the track for their first race of the 2009 season this coming Wednesday at 6:30 pm!
From CPT / Delaware Speedway
GRAND-AM KONI: Pritiko set to rebound at Lime Rock
TORONTO, ON - Compass360 Racing's Matt Pritiko has had a rocky ride in the 2009 Koni Challenge Series this year. "Feast or famine," Pritiko said. "We are in the hunt for wins each time out, and we've been on the podium twice so far, but realistically, we could - and probably should have - been up there every race."
As the series heads to Lime Rock this weekend for round five, the Koni Challenge ST class will have its own race. This is the first time this year that the ST and GS classes will be split into separate races.
"I like the split class races," Pritiko said. "You are racing everyone out there, and there is a little more room on the track."
Pritiko, for the first time this year will also be the second driver in the Compass360 Racing #76 Honda Civic Si. Teamed with Clenn Bocchino this weekend, who will be the first driver, it will now be Pritiko's job to bring the car home in the race.
"I am really looking forward to the challenge this weekend, and I'm sure Glenn and I will get off to a good start this weekend."
Practice for the Koni Challenge ST class will go on Friday, with the race starting at 2:30pm on Saturday.
Matt Pritiko Fast Facts: Matt Pritiko is one of Canada's up and coming stars of motorsport. He is from LondonOntario. In 2007, Pritiko completed his rookie season in Koni Challenge, finishing 15th in the standings, with a top five and four top tens. Pritiko was a member of Sunoco's Team Ultra 94 and collected 1 win, 2 poles and five podiums in the Bridgestone F2000 Series. In 2002, Pritiko is was 2nd in F125/80cc in the Point Pelee Championships and took home the 2002 Most Sportsmanlike award.
Pritiko is supported by Burwell Auto Body.
Compass360 Racing Fast Facts: Compass360 Racing (C360R) is the Motorsports division of Compass360, a marketing communications firm based in Toronto, Canada. Compass360 offers Brand Development and Deployment to clients in financial services, entertainment, advocacy and automotive sectors. Their work includes traditional advertising in television, radio and print, as well as corporate identity, logo creation, documentary film, website development and communications in non-traditional on-line media and event marketing. Compass360 Racing will field four Acuras in Grand Am's KONI Challenge in 2008, building on their third straight Manufacturer's Title and a strong second-place finish in the Driver and Team Championships in 2007.
Release prepared by Russ Bond Agency, Inc. // www.russbondagency.com
EXOTIC CAR RIDES - Hospital for Sick Kids
Members of the Viper Club of Ontario, Lotus Club, Ferraris, Cobras and cars from GTA Exotic Car Rentals as well as other auto enthusiasts will be donating their time and fine machines to give exciting rides around an autoslalom course to the public for a $20 donation to the fund. The James Fund supports research to find a cure for neuroblastoma, an always fatal neuro cancer suffered by children under 10 years of age. Please see the James Fund website for more details.
Please see the attached flyer and we would ask you print it off and pass it around or pin it up to get the word out about this worthwhile cause.
If you know of anyone with an exotic car that would like to donate their time and give rides or simply show off their fine machine, please ask them to contact us.
Ian LawPresident & Chief Instructor
ILR Car Control School Inc.
905 473 9500
905 473 9501
www.carcontrolschool.com
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Indy Lights: Cunningham wins pole for Firestone Freedom 100
INDIANAPOLIS (Thursday, May 21, 2009) - Wade Cunningham won the pole for the Firestone Freedom 100 Firestone Indy Lights race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, marking the second time the 2005 series champion will start the race from the inside of Row 1.
Cunningham also started from the pole in 2006 when he led every lap. Cunningham recorded a two-lap qualifying time of 1 minute, 34.6485 seconds, an average of 190.177 mph in the No. 11 Lucas Oil/Sam Schmidt Motorsports car, setting an event qualifying record. He bettered Jaime Camara's 2005 qualifying effort of 189.870 mph.
Sebastian Saavedra qualified second at 190.023 mph, recording his third front-row start of the season. J.R. Hildebrand and Ana Beatriz will start in Row 2, and Martin Plowman and 2006 series champion Jay Howard will start in Row 3. The 40-lap, 100-mile race is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. (ET) Friday. The 33 drivers in the Indianapolis 500 also will have their final practice before Sunday's race.
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The 10th annual Racing to Recovery Gala sponsored by the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation raised more than $250,000 this year. The event, which included dinner and a live auction, attracted more than 500 people, including IndyCar Series drivers Helio Castroneves, Scott Dixon, Ryan Briscoe, Raphael Matos, Ed Carpenter and Alex Lloyd, and Firestone Indy Lights drivers Ana Beatriz, James Hinchcliffe, Gustavo Yacaman and Wade Cunningham.
Live and silent auctions at the event included vacations, jewelry, wines and racing memorabilia signed by IndyCar Series and NASCAR drivers. Roger Warrick, a renowned motorsports artist, created a live painting during the evening, which was also auctioned off.
Arie Luyendyk was presented with the Legendary Driver Award, and Jim Oxley, senior vice president of investments of Oxley Financial Advisory Group, was awarded the Partner for a Cure Award.
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INDIANAPOLIS MOTOR SPEEDWAY CENTENNIAL ERA FACT OF THE DAY: Garages were added inside Turn 1 in 1910, making the Indianapolis Motor Speedway one of the only racetracks to have permanent garages.
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Sarah Fisher will appear on "The Price is Right," the longest-running game show in television history, on Friday. Fisher will present a showcase featuring a trip to the Indianapolis 500.
Fisher taped the show in April and had the opportunity to spin the famous 'Big Wheel' after the show.
SARAH FISHER (No. 67 Dollar General/Sarah Fisher Racing): "I had such a blast going on "The Price is Right." Drew Carey and all the staff at CBS and Fremantle were so gracious to me and seemed really excited to have us there. The show is such a mainstay in American television, and I was honored to be involved. I've watched the show since I was a kid and never dreamed I'd be on it one day."
***
Lauren George, the youngest daughter of Indy Racing League founder and Vision Racing co-owner Tony George, assumed the role of team owner of Vision Racing's Firestone Indy Lights operation on May 7, her 18th birthday.
Lauren George attended her first Indianapolis 500 Pole Day at just four days old and will be attending her 19th "500" on Sunday.
George will be graduating from Park Tudor School this month and entering the University of Notre Dame.
TONY GEORGE: "Laura and I have decided to bring Lauren into ownership with the intent of making her responsible for directing our Firestone Indy Lights program. She has literally grown up around the sport and has developed a passion for it. Given her desire, ambition and acumen, her mother and I agreed that this would be a perfect opportunity for her. We are very proud of her and are excited for both her and the team."
LAUREN GEORGE: "Since the formation of Vision in 2005, I have watched the team grow from the ground up and have been able to see first-hand the many challenges of operating a successful racing team. I have been known to offer my dad my 'two cents' about the team from time to time, mostly when it's not asked for, so maybe this is my parents' way of showing me just how difficult it is to operate a team. Regardless, I'm excited for the opportunity and plan on giving it my full attention and devotion. Just because I will be completing my studies, I don't think the day-to-day operation is going to change at all. We have a wonderful group of guys at the shop, from the two-car IndyCar Series team all the way down through the Lights team and our partnership with Bryan Herta and Steve Newey, so I have no concerns about the team's direction. Looking forward, I think one of my main objectives is to make the team sustainable so that in the future Vision can give talented, young drivers, who we believe have the potential to be great assets to IndyCar on and off the track, the opportunity to show their ability to the top teams in the IndyCar Series."
***
Team PBIR and 2006 Firestone Indy Lights champion Jay Howard agreed to a last-minute deal to put the driver into the #37 car for the Firestone Freedom 100. Howard missed the first practice session but turned 23 laps in the second session with the 13th-fastest speed. He borrowed the helmet worn by Scott Dixon on Pole Day and scrambled to find other equipment.
JAY HOWARD: "It's a bit of borrowed equipment from everywhere. The helmet is Scott's, the suit and HANS are mine from the truck. The fireproof underwear, shoes, gloves and balaclava belong to Anton Julian (a member of Danica Patrick's crew who races locally). I'm just happy I didn't stay out too late last night."
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Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations will serve as title sponsor for the IndyCar Series championship finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway. The Firestone Indy 300 will be contested Oct. 10.
AL SPEYER (Executive Director, Firestone Racing): "The past three IndyCar Series championships have been decided on the last lap of the last race of the season. In the final lap of this year's Firestone Indy 300 at Homestead-Miami Speedway, just as they have on every other lap this season, drivers will rely on their Firestone Firehawk tires to carry them to the checkered flag. It is fitting that this year's title winner will be crowned at a track that presents Firestone Racing engineers with one of their greatest challenges, as whoever emerges on top, both in the race and in this year's championship, will truly have earned the rewards considering the diversity of the IndyCar Series schedule and its deep field of talented drivers. We are proud to see the Firestone brand associated with the best of the best."
CURTIS GRAY (President, Homestead-Miami Speedway): "The Firestone brand is synonymous with IndyCar Series championships, and Homestead-Miami Speedway has become synonymous with crowning motorsports champions. As we make history in 2009 as the first and only track ever to host all six of North America's premier motorsports championships, Firestone will play an integral role in building both the Firestone Indy 300 and Firestone Indy Lights championship finales. What an opportunity it is for us to partner with an absolute pillar of the sport."
SCOTT DIXON: (On the rigors of going for a third IndyCar Series championship): "That's what makes this championship so tough to win. You have to be good at all disciplines, no matter what it is. You cannot let your guard down. In the past, especially with only two or three road courses, you still had guys winning the championships who maybe didn't fare well as well on the road courses. Now you have six or seven of the things. You have to end the (championship) on a course (oval) like Homestead because the racing needs to be fierce and it needs to come down to the last lap." (On on the importance of being in the Indy 500 at the outset of its Centennial celebration): "Any time you are competing in the '500,' it's special. The history alone is just amazing. To be part of the (Centennial) era, it's amazing to be here now and looking forward to 2011 (100th anniversary of the "500"). It's different for me, coming from a country far, far away. I didn't see too much of the race until I came here in 2000. When you first walk through the gates here for your first '500,' it's like no other facility. The number of people they cram in here, 300,000 to 400,000 people, on Race Day is very unique. It's like no other race. The special thing is the tradition and the history. It's far beyond any other race in the world. The whole process is month long - two races in one, the one for the pole and then the race. The Speedway, IMS and IndyCar Series have done a fantastic job of promoting it (Centennial). The word is that the Speedway is a very special place, and the whole world needs to witness it."
BOBBY RAHAL: (On winning an Indy car championship): "My first championship was decided in Miami on a road course. It is a grind. I think that's what makes winning a championship so satisfying. It's always great to win a race, but when you win a championship you feel like on any given day you were there. And that's tough to do over the course of six or eight months. It's a lot of pressure - particularly as it gets close. I remember two of my championships were decided at the last race. It's a lot of pressure to carry into them. I was leading going into both of my championships. It was probably more (pressure) if you were running in second, but still when you've worked hard all year long and you know what's on the line you really want to make sure that the last event is as good as it can possibly be. It's the commitment and the pressure - it's on everybody - not just the drivers but the crews, too. It's tough, but that's what makes winning championships so sweet." (On the Centennial celebration at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway): "The Centennial Gala they had here a couple of months ago - it was really something else. It was a tremendous turnout in general, but when you got up on that stage and you looked around and how many guys had won the race and how many guys had won more than once, which there were more than a few of, I guess if I look back on racing I feel very privileged to have been able to compete here, let alone have some success here. It really is something that I think as you get older you appreciate more. You remember back, and there are great days racing with Al (Unser Jr.) as my teammate, or against Al. Emerson (Fittipaldi) was there. And Rick (Mears), Danny (Sullivan); of course Al Unser Sr., A.J. (Foyt) and Mario (Andretti) - I mean, the list goes on and on and on. I guess I feel in the Centennial celebration, which is going to go on for several years, that it's really proper that this is being done. This is truly an American institution, and I don't know if you can make that claim about any other race in this country."
AL UNSER JR.: (On winning an Indy car championship): "The way my family was attacking it and the way I was attacking it - there's two championships during the year that you want to win. One of them is during the month of May, and that's a championship all in itself. And then there's the real point championship. Once you get through with the month of May, then the whole mindset is to get as many points as you can and do as well as you can at every single race so that you're in contention at the last race of the season. That's the way we did it. It is stressful. It is a lot of pressure, and it's a pressure cooker, is what I would call it. I remember when Bobby (Rahal) won his first two championships and his second championship - by the time we got to the last race - he was a wreck. You could see the stress all over him and the pressure. That's really what it is. You have to do everything right. My dad (Al Unser Sr.) used to tell me the first race is just as important as the last race as far as points. Mathematically, he's correct. But once you get into the last half of the season and you get into the last couple of races, it starts meaning an awful lot. I lost a championship by one point to my father back in '85. And it sucked, to be honest. And there was a lot of stress there and a lot of pressure there." (On the Centennial Celebration at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway): "We started it with the gala in Indianapolis, and I watched every driver get up there - A.J. Foyt, Rick Mears, dad, Bobby (Unser) was there, Gordon Johncock, Jim Rathmann, and they all said the same thing. We all said the same thing. 'It means life.' The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is everything to us, and that pretty much says it right there. I wish I was a part of this Centennial Era in time. My career is over as a driver. I wish I was part of this era - 2009, 2010 and especially the 2011 race is going to be a special event to be a part of."
DARIO FRANCHITTI: (On the IndyCar Series championship): "When I first came over to the IndyCar Series, Brian Barnhart laid out as a blueprint for me what it (series) was going to look like. It looks pretty much like that now. To win the IndyCar Series championship now, you have to be good on all types of track. Whatever order they come in, you have to be competitive on road, street, short ovals, superspeedways. It is a massive challenge for the driver. It's very, very difficult. That's the way it was for me in the '90s, and now with a unified series, it makes it even more competitive. Al Unser Jr. made a very good point; there are two championships in one. You've got the normal championship and the month of May, which is a complete race of its own and has always been treated like a championship. I'm enjoying the schedule. You have to keep on it all the time. You have to keep physically fit and your mind in it. It doesn't matter what it throws at you, whether it's Indianapolis one weekend or Milwaukee the weekend after. You have to do the same job, and the Target guys (crew) have to be prepared to do everything to be able to run up front." (On the track Centennial): "To be part of the Indianapolis 500 starting field in any year is a privilege. This year is extra special. For a track to have survived an event for so long, it says a lot about it. For me, the Gala to see the heroes who are still alive from each generation, starting with Al Unser (Jr. and Sr., Mario Andretti and A.J. Foyt) and all the great drivers, so for me to be a part of that club now was very meaningful for me. Back in the very early days of the '500,' drivers from Europe came here to race. Then in the '60s again with the rear-engine revolution with Jack Brabham from Australia, Graham Hill, Jimmy Clark and Jackie Stewart came over. It is special for me to follow in their footsteps."
***
FIRESTONE INDY LIGHTS POST-QUALIFYING NOTES:
· Wade Cunningham and Sebastian Saavedra both qualified faster than the previous track record of 189.870 mph set by Jaime Camara in 2005. Cunningham is the new record holder with a two-lap average of 190.177 mph.
· Wade Cunningham wins the pole for the Firestone Freedom 100 for the second time in his career. Cunningham won the race from the pole in 2006.
· Cunningham will make his fifth Firestone Freedom 100 start, the most of any driver. He has finished first (2006), second (2005), third (2008) and 23rd (2007).
· This is Cunningham's ninth career pole in Firestone Indy Lights and his second this season. He also won the pole at Kansas.
· This is the third pole for Sam Schmidt Motorsports in the Firestone Freedom 100. Jaime Camara won it for the team in 2005, and Thiago Medeiros won the pole for the team in 2004. Both drivers went on to win the race.
· Sebastian Saavedra qualified second, his third front-row start of the season. He won the pole at St. Petersburg 2 and qualified second at Kansas.
· J.R. Hildebrand qualified third, his fifth top-four start of the season. He is the only driver to qualify in the top five of every race this season.
· Ana Beatriz qualified fourth, her third top-five start of the season. Beatriz also started fourth in last year's Firestone Freedom 100 and went on to finish fifth.
· Martin Plowman qualified fifth, his best qualifying effort of the season. His previous best was sixth at Long Beach.
· Jay Howard qualified a season-best sixth. His previous best was eighth at St. Petersburg 1.
· Charlie Kimball tied his season-best qualifying effort of seventh, which he also did at Kansas.
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FIRESTONE INDY LIGHTS POST-QUALIFYING QUOTES:
WADE CUNNINGHAM (No. 11 Lucas Oil/Sam Schmidt Motorsports, qualified first): "It's great. We were sitting here in line, 19th to go out, and Sebastian (Saavedra) pops that 47.25 up on the board, 190.4, I think. That's a good time running by yourself. We were only running marginally quicker than that this morning at 9 with the cool ambient temperatures and a cold track. So I dug deep, and the car was great. I can't complain. The changes that were made from second practice to qualifying obviously worked. We didn't do the quickest lap time, but we were more consistent on the second lap." (On the Firestone Freedom 100): "It's a long race. Forty laps, and anything can happen. In 2006, it went green for 40 laps, and that is a completely different race than what is was last year where we had the 10-lap shootout at the end. You just have to work hard and have the best car you can and take the conditions as they come. You never have a perfect car and when you do, you win. So it's not often that happens, and you have to battle through the day. We'll just see how tomorrow comes. I love Indianapolis. I love oval racing. To be back full time this year with Sam Schmidt, who has great oval success, and obviously we showed it in qualifying trim. We were able to put our foot down and put the car up on top. It's pretty awesome, really."
SEBASTIAN SAAVEDRA (No. 27 Automatic Fires Sprinklers, Inc., second): "It feels wonderful. The whole AFS/AGR Racing team has done an awesome job putting the car together. I think we're looking forward to the race. The points are important. The championship is important. We have a very strong car for this weekend. We'll try to do our best. It's unbelievable (racing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway). During the first five laps, I was like, 'Where are you?' It's a historic race. It's a historic racetrack. And here I am. It's a lot of feelings. It's happiness and nervousness. I am very happy to be here. It's wonderful and more to be on such an incredible team, and we will try our best to try and search for a championship and win here for this race. I'd like to have the second one in the belt."
J.R. HILDEBRAND (No. 26 ARPRO, third): "It felt pretty good. It's a little bit frustrating. I think we had a pretty good shot at the pole. It's just really close with my teammate here, Sebastian. I think everybody here is going to be a little bit bummed that we didn't get it. The two of us are quite fast. I know we've got a really good race car for tomorrow. I'm looking forward to the race."
ANA BEATRIZ (No. 20 Healthy Choice/Sam Schmidt Mtrspts, fourth): "I felt pretty good. I think our second lap was a little bit slower than what we expected. It's so bad to qualify first because you have no test of what people are doing. It's always special to come back to Indy. It's such a magic environment with all of the fans. Indianapolis is all about the Indy 500, so it's a great environment, and I am really excited about the race. It's good to have the team behind you taking photos. I am hoping to be in an IndyCar (Series car) next year. Track conditions are pretty good. It's really hot here in Indy, so we were a little bit slower than we expected to be. It's equal for everybody. It wasn't that windy."
MARTIN PLOWMAN (No. 15 Panther Racing, fifth): "It was exciting. I love this qualifying format for the ovals. It's just one big adrenaline rush. I felt that first lap and a half of qualifying I did the best I could have done, but I made a small mistake on my second lap. It's just one of those things. We're still reasonably pleased, I think. Tomorrow is just a really big race, and we've got a strong car for the race, so we'll see some action tomorrow. (The Speedway) is everything that everyone describes of it. It's awe-inspiring. It's what dreams are made of, and it's what everyone dreams of as a young boy. The first time I drove around this place was just indescribable. It's pretty intimidating the first time you go out there, but once you get confident in yourself and the car out there, it's just a joy to race on."
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From IndyCar
Jacques Villeneuve opens racing school near Montreal
NCATS: Jason White back behind the wheel of his A&W 'Hot Rod' in 2009
SUN PEAKS, BC - The combination of A&W and Jason White is a natural fit. Both are based in British Columbia. A&W food Services of Canada is a coast to coast corporation with it’s head office in North Vancouver B.C. and White’s family and his RZ Racing team are located in the Sun Peaks area of central British Columbia.
But the western connection goes even further as Jason is the only full time NASCAR Canadian Tire Series driver located west of Barrie Ontario.
Commenting on his association with A&W, Jason said, “We are very proud to carry the A&W brand on our cars and equipment. We have teamed up with a great western based corporation, with intentions to Cruise into race tracks across Canada and into living rooms via TSN broadcasts for each race.”
White was not only the 2008 Rookie of the Year, but he also took home the “Most Sportsmanlike Driver” award. But Jason is not one to rest on past accomplishments. He said, “We have to pick up where we left off and be consistent while finishing races.”
Consistency comes from having a great team. White’s crew chief Brian Uptigrove is optimistic that his team has the stuff to survive the gruelling season of competition that is the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series.
Uptigrove says, “It’s been a great couple of years in this series. I can only thank the crew for the hard work and dedication it takes to compete at this level. We have grown into a very high calibre race team and now it’s time to step up and compete for some “top fives” and eventually some wins!”
The 2009 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series schedule welcomes two new venues this racing season. Delaware Speedway near London Ontario and the Auto Clearing Motor Speedway in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan will be the new challenges facing Jason and his fellow competitors.
Jason can’t wait for Race #5 (July 18th) on the schedule. That is when he returns to the Sun Valley Speedway near Vernon, BC. This is Jason’s home track. He holds a track championship and has put in more laps on this course than anyone of his competitors.
But this race has special significance for Jason. He said, “It is always fun to come home and compete in front of loyal friends and family. And, with this race being the A&W Cruisin' the Dub® 300, we really want to win it for our corporate partner A&W and for all the fans.”
A&W is Canada's original hamburger quick service restaurant chain, and today is one of its fastest growing. The first A&W drive-in restaurant in Canada opened on Portage Avenue in Winnipeg in 1956. The combination of great tasting burgers, onion rings and frosted mugs of famous A&W Root Beer® served by friendly carhops was an instant hit. Since then, A&W has continued to grow and evolve with the times, expanding into over 700 locations from Vancouver Island to Newfoundland. At the heart of that growth is the fact that, while so much of our world has changed, the simple things that made A&W so popular in its early days are the same today. We still serve A&W Root Beer in frosted mugs. Our onion rings are made fresh from whole onions every day. With a rich history behind us, we look forward to an even more exciting future ahead of us. A&W continues to expand all across Canada, with particular emphasis on Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic provinces. For further information go to: www.aw.ca
On your way to the next NASCAR CANADIAN TIRE SERIES race, be sure to "CRUISE " into an A&W near you!! See you at the races!!
NASCAR: Canadian J.R. Fitzpatrick joins Kevin Harvick Inc. for remainder of 2009 season
Canadian Driver to Compete in Select Truck and Nationwide Series Races
KERNERSVILLE, N.C. (May 21, 2009) – Kevin Harvick Inc. (KHI) announced today that J.R. Fitzpatrick will compete for the team in selected events in both the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and the NASCAR Nationwide Series throughout the remainder of the 2009 season.
The Cambridge, Ontario, Canada native will pilot a KHI entry in eight NASCAR Camping World Truck Series events, beginning with the AAA Insurance 200 at Dover (Del.) International Speedway on May 29.
“This is a great opportunity for me and I firmly believe that I am joining the best team in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series,” said Fitzpatrick. “I was fortunate enough to meet Kevin Harvick last year at Phoenix and he really helped me out a lot. Since then, I have gone to him on and off the track for advice and he has been great to learn from. Ron (Hornaday) has also helped me before and now that I will be a teammate of his, it gives me more confidence going to tracks that will be new to me. I believe racing is all about confidence and I have that knowing that I am going to be in great equipment driving for Kevin Harvick Inc.”
“We’re glad to have J.R. Fitzpatrick join KHI for the remainder of the 2009 season,” said KHI co-owner Kevin Harvick. “J.R. and I both got our starts in go-karts and he has taken a path similar to mine, moving up through the stock car ranks, during his career. I feel like our equipment speaks for itself and it will be exciting to watch him attempt to take that next step in his racing career.”
In addition, Fitzpatrick will compete in two NASCAR Nationwide Series events in a KHI entry, the first being at Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International Raceway August 8 and the second at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal, Quebec, Canada August 30.
About Kevin Harvick Inc.: Kevin Harvick Inc. (KHI), established in 2001, is a 70,000 sq. ft. facility located in Kernersville, N.C. KHI houses two full-time Truck Series teams, including the 2007 series champions, the No. 33 Chevrolet Silverado driven by three-time Truck Series champion Ron Hornaday and the No. 4 KHI All-Stars Chevrolet Silverado driven by Ricky Carmichael and a variety of NASCAR Sprint Cup stars. KHI is also home to the No. 33 Chevrolet Impala competing full-time in the Nationwide Series, with drivers Kevin Harvick (a two-time Nationwide Series champion), Hornaday and Cale Gale. The 2009 season marks KHI’s sixth year of full-time competition in NASCAR’s elite divisions. Visit www.kevinharvickinc.com for more information.
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From Tyler Patterson // Kevin Harvick, Inc.
FW: Kingston Speedway Reunion Goes Green for a 3rd Year
Kingston Speedway Reunion Goes Green for a 3rd Year
By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications
It’s become a regular rite of the summer racing season. For the 3rd consecutive year drivers, friends, family and fans of the former Kingston Speedway will gather at the Odessa Fairgrounds to celebrate the limestone city oval’s rich racing history. From humble beginnings a few summers ago, show organizer Rob Clark says the event has gained strength and momentum each year.
“In the first go-round, we really didn’t know what to expect,” says Clark. “Some of the drivers and fans heard about the show and linked to the various sites we were using to promote it. There were comments on the message boards but until the gates opened it was had to predict how the event would be received. The track had been closed since ’76 and while we hoped the turn-out would be strong, we had no idea how popular it would really be.”
With the 3rd round of the reunion scheduled for June 13th and 14th, fans can expect to see even more of their racing heroes and the cars that made the track a Friday night tradition. To help generate some interest in the event, Rob Clark has worked to arrange a race night at Brighton Speedway Park. Fans of coupe and coach racing will get a special treat Saturday, May 30th.
The track will host a vintage modified invitational event – featuring Kingston’s Tom Traynor, runners from the McNamee Concrete Series and a variety of drivers from throughout Ontario, including Brockville’s Denzil Billings Sr. and Harold Sonnenberg of the Niagara region. Both drivers are in their 70’s and still compete actively at a variety of tracks. The Rinaldi family has also invited Clark to set-up a display at the track to promote the event.
“We’ve been able to build-up a solid network of fans and friends,” Clark says. “If things keep going the way they have been, we hope the next Kingston Speedway Reunion will be at a new Kingston Speedway. Each year, people have told us about some of the former track’s cars and where they are. Some of the drivers who ran the track every week have been lucky enough to search-out their former rides and have worked on getting them restored.
Bob Prud’homme from Belleville, Ontario read about the first edition of the show in 2007 and then found-out the Malibu late model he raced at the track was still out there. He picked it up, started working on restoring it and brought it to the 2008 edition of the show as a ‘work-in-progress’. We’re hoping he’ll have the finished product at this year’s event. There are even people out there who want to build a car from scratch as a tribute to their favourite racer. The pieces might not be that easy to find, but they’re around if you know where to look for them.”
Another former Kingston Speedway car made its reunion debut in 2008. Brockville’s Henry Hannewyk bought and restored a former 3 window coupe campaigned at the track by many time champion Tony Blake. The car had been sold to veteran racer Ted Hossler and finished its on-track life being run by Blake, but raced as Hossler’s #97. Hannewyk picked it up and did some hard work on the piece to get it into showcar condition. The Brockville Speedway track photographer also runs it in selected vintage modified shows at the 3/8th mile oval.
Rob Clark says fans can expect to see a replica of Buzzie Reutimann’s famed #00 coupe, an original #24 Will Cagle car and some other new entries at this year’s edition. There will also be several Kingston Speedway racecars that have been restored over the years and an interesting display of model racecars, scrapbooks, photo albums, trophies and memorabilia from the McAdoo’s Lane quarter-mile oval. For additional information, visit www.carkatz.com or call Rob Clark at 705.359.1275. You can also ‘google’ Kingston Speedway Reunion to learn more.
Mark your calendars now for the 3rd edition of the Kingston Speedway Reunion – Saturday and Sunday, June 13th and 14th at the Odessa Fairgrounds.
Photo attachments:
#1). Tony Blake accepts a trophy from Kingston Speedway starter Phil Marshall. (Photo by Vi Perry, Meyers Studios. Clarke Motorsports Communications collection)
#2). Brockville’s Henry Hannewyk bought and restored Blake’s #66 coupe to its former glory.
(Photo by Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications)
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Brighton Speedway - May 17th, 2009 report
SUNDAY NIGHT RESCHEDULE A SUCCESS FOR BRIGHTON SPEEDWAY
BRIGHTON, ONTARIO - With the downpour of rain on Saturday May16th, the Holiday Inn of Trenton Presentation of the Southern Ontario Sprints was rescheduled to run Sunday, May 17th. Bringing a field of 16 for their first race of the 2009 season, the cool 1/3 mile clay oval at Brighton Speedway was warmed right up with hot racing action. Defending series champion Glenn Styres, #0 from Oshweken Speedway, picked up where he left off with the checkered flag win in the 20 lap feature. Local favourite, “the Joyceville Jet” #42w Rick Wilson, entertained the fans with his usual flying speed and tactics, and in a final lap fury finished third place.
Also warming up the track were double wins for the #32 Bill’s Johns Comp 4 of Terry Hough, from Brighton, the #72 Brighton Automotive Pro Stock of Doug Anderson from Trenton, and the #19 Quinte Towing Stinger of Del MacGregor from Brighton. All three gentlemen drove their cars like the veterans they are straight into Victory Lane. Joining them for their respective feature wins were Jeff Sallans (#72) of Trenton, in the Bainer’s Radiator Canadian Modified and Chris Turner (#10) of Trenton in the Picture This Pure Stocks.
“It was chilly, but the dedicated Brighton Speedway staff, drivers and fans stuck it out to complete six classes of non stop racing action. The show moved fast, the track conditions were adequate considering the weather, but most importantly everyone who was a witness to the competition on the tight bull ring of clay, was willing and pleased to have made the sacrifice to a new night. We appreciate the flexibility of everyone involved and are looking to Mother Nature for her full cooperation over the next few months of racing,” said Pit Director, Brenda Whitehead following the event.
The next race event is scheduled for May 23rd, when the Campbellford Chrysler Car Load Night ($25.00 per carload admission) featuring the FAB FOUR , Gord's Water “Vantastics”, the Pure Stock Mechanics Race & Hotch's Auto Parts Pro Stock Triple Crown are scheduled. During Intermission be ready to meet and greet the drivers during the first 2009 Brighton Automotive Fan Appreciation event. Green Flag flies at 7pm. For more information visit www.brightonspeedway.com.
For more information on this Press Release contact Angela Rinaldi at 613-475-1102.
PHOTOS:
Brighton Speedway announcer Huck Flindall shares a smile with Southern Ontario Sprint feature winner, Glenn Styres (#0) from Oshweken, during the Holiday Inn Trenton SOS presentation at the 1/3 mile clay oval on the rescheduled Sunday May 17th. – Photo by imagefactor.ca
Terry Hough, #32 Bill’s Johns Comp4, of Brighton raced himself into Victory Lane twice in one night as he took both his qualifier and feature checkers on May 17th, 2009 at Brighton Speedway. Photo sumitted by Bev Burrows Rosebush
DIRTcar: Lampman Over Phelps Monday In Merrittville 358-Modified Series Thriller!
Lampman Last To Lead In DIRTcar 358-Mod Series Thriller At Merrittville
*Alex Bruce Photo Attachment
Thorold, ONT – May 18, 2009 – By Tom Skibinski, DIRTcar Racing Northeast PR Director
It took three extra weeks to find a winner in the Mr. DIRTcar 358-Modified Championship Series opener at Merrittville Speedway, and still one additional lap before officials could finally bestow the coveted crown on Monday.
That was just enough time for local favorite Larry Lampman Jr. to charge past American invader Jimmy Phelps and roll on to capture his first career tour triumph in the ‘Spring Sizzler 50’ to begin his own Victoria Day celebration.
Not only is Lampman the current points leader at the storied Thorold, Ontario third-miler, the two-time Merrittville champion now stands atop the standings after round one of the 2009 Mr. DIRTcar 358-Modified Championship Series.
“Racing here every week definitely helps,” stated Lampman, 33, who stole the lead from Phelps just before the yellow lights flashed for the fifth and final time to produce a green-white-checkered flag finish. “And the lapped traffic definitely helped out tonight.”
“Phelps, Planck, Bicknell and Brachmann … all these guys are some of the best short-track racers in the country. And its always an honor to race against them. Jimmy got me on that one restart high, it was a good race for him. The track was pretty slippery so some of my experience certainly paid off at the end,” remarked Lampman, who finished eighth in this same race last spring after starting at the rear of the field in the borrowed ride of owner Dan Miller’s Players Athletic Lager Co./Bicknell entry.
This time around recognized as the first-string driver in Miller’s yellow no. 22 CMH Leasing/BRP mount, Lampman remained up front throughout the race, overtaking front row partner Phelps on the second circuit and swapping the point four more times before warming the capacity crowd with a dramatic story-book finish. Phelps settled for runner-up honors followed by last year’s race winner Dale Planck, hard charger Stewart Friesen and all-time Merrittville winner Pete Bicknell, who was placed fifth after Frenchman David Hebert was penalized from jumping on the last restart.
Fifty-five 358-Modifieds signed in at Merrittville on April 25 before rain intervened to delay the show until the Canadian holiday. Finishing second in his heat to co-fast time trialer Robbie Krull, Lampman took advantage of the customary pre-race draw to select the pole. He joined Phelps on the front row when activity resumed three weeks later with still 41 cars making the tow to the fan-friendly Highway 50 facility.
While Lampman and Phelps paced the 32-car starting field for the duration, top-10 positions fluctuated behind them as smooth track conditions prevailed to provide plenty of side-by-side battles in every corner. Veteran drivers mired deep in the all-star line-up were among the biggest movers on the day with no less than a half-dozen of the most seasoned chauffeurs improving at least 16 positions in the 33-minute main.
While 20th starter Planck broke the top-10 with 20 laps scored, third-generation standout Friesen made his way from 26th into the first 10 spots by the halfway point. Lampman and Phelps held a commanding lead ahead of Scott Wood ---fresh off his recent Saturday night victory at Merrittville--- and Hebert while Planck powered his way into the front-five with 30 laps complete.
Just as Lampman had ducked under Phelps for first-place on an earlier lap 13 restart, Phelps nearly mirrored the move on the lap 32 restart yet after just one more lap around the Baldwinsville, New York speedster was out front for the third time. Planck and Wood traded paint in pursuit of the show position while Bicknell and Friesen dialed in their mounts as the final laps clicked off.
The same green flag conditions that allowed Phelps to build up a seemingly comfortable lead with 10 laps to go proved to be the deciding factor as traffic grew thicker in the closing stages. Phelps made a bold move splitting the machines of New Yorker Lance Willix and New Jerseyman Rich Scagliotta on lap 42 to find some room, yet with five laps still to go Lampman was back in his shadow in pursuit of his second win of the season at Merrittville.
With the white flag ready to drop on the lead duo as they exited turn four, Lampman got the needed bite and nosed ahead across the line just as Wood’s day came to an abrupt with a spin out of the third corner to force out the final yellow. The two-lap dash to the checkers was hardly enough for Phelps to challenge the Port Colborne, Ontario pilot with Lampman opening up a two car-length advantage as he crossed the stripe to collect the $4,000 top prize.
“The track definitely fooled us a little bit tonight,” admitted Phelps, who registered his first career 358-Modified Series win last September at Canandaigua (NY) Speedway after dominating the Big-Block tour stop at Merrittville just one month prior. “We should’ve tightened it up for this deal.”
“It was a fun race out there, could’ve went either way. Larry did a helluva job, he kept digging on those restarts. He just jumped out there on that last one and I couldn’t stay with him. He had the best car and did a great job so congratulations, he deserves it,” added Phelps, after leading 21 laps aboard the potent no. 99J J&B Installations-Town Mechanical/Troyer entry.
Returning to Merrittville after lapping up to the runner-up car of Danny O’Brien in last year’s 100-lap romp, Planck settled for the show position steering the RezX Racing no. 77X Grow It Hydroseeding/TEO mount.
“We knocked out the pan-hard bar and after that all we could do was just hang on for the ride,” noted Planck, who owns four victories on DIRTcar Racing Northeast’s premier tour for Small-Block Modifieds. “So I’m really happy just to be here.”
“The track was super and slickened up which was good because we raced at Cornwall (Ont.) last night and left in the same set-up. We didn’t get any hot laps tonight so its hard to complain about the way things went for us,’ Planck added.
Racing in the Mr. DIRTcar 358-Modified Series continues back in the states later in the summer when Ransomville (NY) Speedway hosts round #2 of the premier Small-Block Modified tour in the Northeast on Friday, July 31. Coors Light and Hard Copy Wholesale present the 25th Alex Friesen Summer Nationals with $4,000 on the line for the 100-lap feature winner.
NCATS: Dave Whitlock to discuss upcoming season and his retirement on Sirius Speedway
Listen in for some interesting discussion on the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, the first event of 2009 at Autodrome St. Eustache and Dave’s decision to retire.
From Linda Jones / Wide Open Motorsport Solutions Inc.
Humberstone Speedway: May 17, 2009 report and results
FRIESEN, CUPOLO, ISRAEL, AUBE, GOULDING, CHARCZUK, MEULLER TAKE WINS ON REUNION NIGHT AT NEW HUMBERSTONE SPEEDWAY. PRESENTED BY HAMBLETS ROOFING, SIDING AND WINDOWS.
A great crowd consisting of past drivers, owners, crews, track officials, and current dirt track racing fans and their families were once again treated to a great racing program hosted by Humberstone Speedway. As the 50th year of dirt track racing season was celebrated. “This season has been off to a great start”. Reveals track general manager Bob Davidson. “Although the weather has been cool, the staff, officials and of course the greatly talented drivers that put on the show every week, have given the fans each week a very entertaining program.”
The first feature of the night was the Niagara Auto Sales Pro 4 trucks. A pair of sevens brought the field to the green. Hilary Haegens in the 7 and Brother Greg Haegens in the 7G. It would be the 32a of Andy Imbeault who led the 1st lap, using his experience to navigate the slippery track. Kevin Aube started putting his driving skills to work as well, showing why he is a multi time feature winner in this class. Aube made his way to 2nd on the 2nd lap. Don Lessard would follow Aube through the traffic as well. Lap 7 was a caution for the k51 truck, spinning in turn 2. The restart would bunch the field up and the top 4 trucks of Aube, Imbeault, Lesard, and 117 Billy Beales would battle it out side by side for the remainder of the race. At the checkers it was 1) 5 Kevin Aube 2) 64 Don Lesssard 3) 32a Andy Imbeault 4) 117 Billy Beales 5) 7 Hillary Haegens.
Next up was the Brian’s Tire Repair Street Stocks. 01jr of Barry Beck and the 37 of Roger Israel led the field to the green flag. Beck would lead lap 1 with the 108 of Billy Bleich jr using the bottom line to sneak by Isreal. Bleich continued to look strong on the bottom making the pass for the lead on lap 3. Jaren Isreal in the 10 made his move to 2nd sending Beck to 3rd . Bleich would continue to lead until lap 13 when Jaren Isreal would use lap traffic to make the pass on Bleich. Bleich would not give up that easy and battled back as the raced side by side for two laps exchanging the lead several times. Isreal grabbed the lead on lap 15 and looked to start pulling away just as the number 5 of rookie Dan Habiuk spins in front him. After barely avoiding Habiuk Isreal would cruise to the win. Top 5 1) 10 Jaren Isreal 2) 56 Rob Murray 3) 37 Roger Isreal 4) 108 Billy Bleich JR 5) 1 Jason Fontaine
The 358 Modified’s roared to the green flag next. The 80 of Chris Steele and 76 of Travis Braun, brought the field to the green flag. That’s how they would cross the line on lap 1 with the 52 of James Michael Friesen, and the number 6 of the Mighty Mouse Matt Williamson in close pursuit. Williamson looked fast early making the move to 3rd on lap 4. There was a yellow on lap 6 for the 56 of Dereck Lemyre spinning in turn 2. On the restart Friesen would go high and find the fast way around on the cushion, moving into the top three. Lap 13 a near crash as the 17c of Jeff McGinnis made contact with the inside wall going into turn 1. This allowed the 42 of Pete Bicknell into the top 5.
Meanwhile race leader Steele stretched his lead to 12 cars over Braun, but a lap 17 yellow erased that sizeable lead. On the restart Friesen would waste no time and jumped up to the cushion to move into the 2nd spot, bring Bicknell with him on his tail. The yellow would come out again on lap 23. The restart would set up a 7 lap dash to the checkers. Friesen using the high side pulled up beside Steele, both these drivers would battle it out side by side until the last lap when Friesen made the pass. Meanwhile behind them Bicknell and the 22 of Larry Lampman had their own battle going on. Friesen would grab the win in only his 8th career 358 Modified race. Top 5 1) James Michael Friesen 2) 80 Chris Steele 3) 42 Pete Bicknell 4) 22 Larry Lampman 5) 17c Jeff McGinnis
Up Next was the 4 cylinder Ministocks, leading the field to the green was the 2ez of Evan Curtis and the 5 of Carey Gore. Curtis would lead the first lap followed by Gore and the 43 of Matt Deschamps. A scary moment on lap 3 when the 47x of Kyle Pelrine slide of the backstretch and made very heavy contact with the jersey barrier at the pit entrance. The driver was ok but the car not so good. After 15 mins to remove the car and put the barriers back in place. The race was restarted and the 43 of Deschamps quickly took over the 2nd spot, but one lap later the 16 of Rob Goulding would sling shot past both Curtis and Deschamps to take over the top spot. Goulding would continue to lead. On lap 13 Deschamps caught back up to Goulding and used the outside to make his challenge. Deschamps came up short at the line as Goulding would pick up the win. Top 5 1) 16 Rob Goulding 2) 43 Matt Deschamps 3) 2ez Evan Curtis 4) 71 Garnet Wilson 5) 67s Dave Small
The final event of the night was the Cosco Haulage Dirt Car Sportsman. The 53x of Jamie Gilbert and the 53 of Rich Farraway brought the field to the green. Gilbert grabbed the lead and looked very strong all race. The 140 of Mark Dixon moved into the 2nd position. A lap 8 yellow as 4 cars came together in turn 3, would set up a restart. Gilbert would choose to restart from the outside, sending Dixon to the bottom groove. The decision paid off as Gilbert continued to lead. Meanwhile eyes were on the 18r of Brad Rouse as he perfected the high line using the cushion to start picking off cars, moving into the 4th position.
By lap 12 Gilbert had his lead extended, but the battle was for the second position. 99c of Nick Cupolo, 1p of Daren Peters and 140 of Mark Dixon battled for the second spot. Cupolo took advantage of this. Then set his sight on Gilbert the race leader. Cupolo took the lead on lap 19 and never looked back taking the checkered flag. Top 5 1) 99c Nick Cupolo 2) 1p Daren Peters 3) 53x Jamie Gilbert 4) 18r Brad Rouse 5) 140 Mark Dixon
In other action Dave Charczuk took home the 10 lap vintage car feature event. The vintage cars were on hand to help celebrate the tracks 50 year of dirt track racing season. Darcy Meuller took home $50 cash prize by putting up the fastest time of the night in the GABS racing simulator. Former drivers, owners and staff were on hand for reunion night. A catered pasta dinner was served prior to the racing program, and at intermission they were introduced on the front stretch. The action packed racing program ended at 9:33pm. And fans were treated to Victoria weekend fireworks.
Coming up next week Sunday May 24 CRL Campbell Construction presents a full card + pure stocks. Racing at 6pm, 4pm pre race pit party and autograph session. Come on out and meet the drivers and get up close to the race cars.
RACE RESULTS
Trucks
5 Kevin Aube, 64 Don Lessard, 32a Andy Imbeault, 117 Billy Beales, 7 Hilary Haegens, 8 Terry Larmet, k51 Bob Mcnamara, 79 Rick Book, 9 Kevin Conely, 7g Greg Haegens, 14j Jacob Davies, 41k Kameron Kocarik, 43 Scott Sherk
StreetStocks
10 Jaren Isreal, 56 Rob Murray, 37 Roger Isreal, 1j Jason Fontaine, 108 Billy Bleich JR, 97 Ron Loggie, 01jr Barry Beck, 88 Shayne Pierce, 9 Tyler Anderson, 41 Pat Thompson, 11 Andrew Iker, 5h Devon Habiuk, 711 Blake Reichel
358 Modified
52 James Michael Friesen, 80 Chris Steele, 42 Pete Bicknell, 22 Larry Lampman, 17c Jeff McGinnis, 71 Mike Bowman, 44 Brian Stevens, 72 Tom Flannigan, 6 Matt Williamson, 76 Travis Braun, 8s Justin Sharp, 69 Rob Pietz, xxx Todd Gordon, 37 Wayne Conn, 108 Bill Bleich, 7 Sam Crogan, 56 Dereck Lemyre, 88 Don Spiece, 26 Luke Carelton, 82 Ken Winfeild, 13 Dennis Giancola, 96 Fred Carleton, 16w Derek Wutzke
4 cylinder Ministocks
16 Rob Goulding, 43 Matt Deschamps, 2ez Evan Curtis, 71 Garnet Wilson, 67s Dave Small, 48 Rob Overholt, 58 Baden Curtis, 37 Steve Brooker, 14k Ron Cosco, 17 Chris Laskey, 38 Sam Rodgers, 33 Greg Wilson, 19h Jeff Hill, 5 Carey Gore, 95 Roger Gilbert, 79 Brandon Iduciani, 34 Rocco Conte, 47x Kyle pelrine
Cosco Haulage Sportsman
1 NICK CUPOLO
2 DARREN PETERS
3 JAMIE GILBERT
4 BRAD ROUSE
5 MARK DIXON
6 JEFF LEGGETT
7 GREG PANUNTE
8 RICK BELLANTE
9 CODY Mc PHERSON
10 PAUL GABOURY
11 JEFF ARMSTRONG
12 B J WILLARD
13 KEVIN SHARPE
14 TYLER Mc PHERSON
15 DOUG SPIECE
16 RICH FARRAWAY
17 SCOTT SPIECE
18 TONY COWELL
19 LEN DIGNARD
20 GREG RAUSCHER
From Tom Beales / New Humberstone Speedway Public Relations Director
Have Bus Will Travel racing tours...
Have Bus Will Travel
Wish you were there...
Tara, all of us that were at the All- Star Race this weekend missed you and wanted to share some of our wonderful memories with you. First we want you to know that we hope that the next time you pick wild flowers in the bush that Mr. Poison Ivy will leave you alone so that you will be with us to see your boy "Tony" win. These are just a few moments that we wanted you, and other Race Fans to know about.
Watch for these types of moments live from the races .. blogging COMING SOON!! To our website.
Thursday... we visited the Winston Cup Museum, Bowman Gray Stadium, Richard Childress Racing Museum, Store and Shop and then to the Hilton Garden Inn, Pineville.
The NASCAR Pit Crew Challenge at Time Warner was an action packed head to head competition with the top 24 NASCAR teams participating. It was an opportunity for Race Fans to get a real education in what happens during a pit stop and get real close to a ton of NASCAR Drivers and Crew members as a bunch of them were in the audience including, to name a few, Jeff Gordon, Jeff Burton, Ryan Newman, Kevin Harvick, Kyle Busch and Tara's, Tony Stewart. It was a blast with Jeff Burton's team winning with Kim driving the car.
Friday... The afternoon saw us at the Sirius Radio live broadcast at the Sam Bass Gallery and had Sam autograph Posters for our Race fans and then onto the Hendrick Motorsports Museum and store.
At the All-Star qualifying for the 18 teams in the Race (3 laps with a 4 tire pit stop) was the most exciting qualifying I have ever seen and when Tony tore away from his pit stall after getting only his right side tires 100,000 Race Fans roared laughing. It dropped him down in the starting order. The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series was a terrific Race with Kyle Busch up to his usual shenanigans, getting a NASCAR penalty for aggressive driving and his second trip to the end of the longest line and working his way back to the front. Skinner's crash was one of the worst I have seen in a Truck Race, but it was Ron Hornaday that made it to Victory Lane.
Saturday... The All-Star Race with all it hype and glitz lives up to what it is. The final 10 lap race for $1 Million dollars was spectacular with the dominate driver Jeff Gordon getting taken out in one of Kyle Busch's 3 wide moves with Ryan Newman being the 3rd. In the end it was Tony that was way out in front for the last two laps. Seeing Tony win for his first time as an owner was history in the making. Thirty minutes after Tony's Victory almost all the 100,000 Race Fans were still in the stands watching the celebration including all of us.
Sunday... we were at the NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals at Bristol Dragway for an exciting day. A NHRA Drag Racing Series event is up close and personal with the open pit policy where you are able to see, hear, feel and smell the raw power of 7,000 horse powered Top Fuel Dragsters and Funny Cars, Pro Stock and Pro Mods plus several other classes. In the Pro Mods, Raymond Commisso from Toronto in a 67 Camaro was quicker and faster in the final round than Burton Auxier, but he was right lighted.
Funny Car Eliminations Round 1
Jack Beckman (Valvoline/MTS Charger) & John Force (Castol GTX Mustang)
Oh. WOW!! Scary!!
Typical for this session, two good leaves, with Force getting the advantage. Beckman's Charger was up in smoke right after the sixty foot lights and he started pedaling.
We saw a near disaster when John Force's Mustang was marching away until just before the 660 light, when the tires went up in smoke and the car went dead sideway towards the center line. The front end took out the first reflector and John was barely able to keep form crashing into Beckman's car. He straightened out the car and took out the finish line reflector getting back into his lane. But that was the end of the day for John because he centerlined.
Race Fans, we need you to come with us to the Race of your choice. We still have seats available on all our Racing Tours. Please call to reserve today, even for the Coke 600.
Please visit our website ... www.havebus.com for information on the Coke 600, Dover, Eldora, MIS, WoO at Ohsweken, Loudon and the rest of our Racing Tours for the remainder of the year.
NCATS: Five things to watch in 2009...
"The 2009 season for the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series will open this weekend at Autodrome St. Eustache (Que.) with the Tufoil 250. With the long winter behind everybody and another race season at hand, here are five things to watch as the upcoming season progresses.
Who will be this year’s surprise entrant to the championship fray?..."
Click here to see the entire piece on NASCAR Home Tracks.
AIM AUTOSPORT: Bruno Junqueira joins AIM Autosport at Watkins Glen
Bruno Junqueira joins AIM Autosport at Watkins Glen... Star of open wheel makes his debut in Daytona Prototypes
Woodbridge, Ontario (2009.05.20) Coming off its best finish of the 2009 season, AIM Autosport is pleased to announce that Champ Car and Indy Car driver Bruno Junqueira will join the team for the next race in the Rolex Sports Car Series presented by Crown Royal Cask No. 16. Junqueira (BRA) will join Mark Wilkins (CAN) and Burt Frisselle (USA) in the No. 61 Ford Riley for the Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen which takes place June 6th at Watkins Glen International in New York.
Discussions between AIM Autosport and the thirty-two year old Brazilian began earlier this year when Junqueira, after spending the last twelve years in formula cars, was said to be looking for opportunities to make the switch to sports car racing. Bruno had one hundred and one career starts in Champ car and five appearances in the Indy 500 between 2001 and 2008. He sat on the pole for the 2002 Indy 500 and after a successful career in Champ Car where he was championship runner-up three times, Bruno moved to the Indy Car Series for 2008. Junqueira returned to Indy this past weekend and qualified the No 36 Conquest Racing car 30th for this year’s Indy 500 starting grid
“I have thought about moving to sports car racing for a while,” said Junqueira. “The competition is very close and the racing is exciting. This seemed a logical step to add another dimension to my racing career.”
He continued, “The more I looked at the Rolex Sports Car Series, the more interested I became, especially to compete with a team that can run at the front. When the opportunity came to sit down with Andrew (Bordin) and Ian (Willis) from AIM Autosport I knew I was talking with the right team. They have a very strong program that has proven itself on the track. I am looking forward to participating in their continued success.”
The race at Watkins Glen will be Junqueira’s first in a Daytona Prototype but not his first on the circuit. He raced in the Indy Car event at The Glen last season recording his best finish of the season (6th).
“We are looking forward to having Bruno in the car”, commented AIM Autosport’s Andrew Bordin. “He has a very impressive history of speed and it will be fun to watch what Bruno can do with a competitive car like the No 61 Ford Riley. Bruno is a race winner and AIM has a race-winning car - a good combination going forward in this very competitive series.”
Junqueira will travel to AIM Autosport’s shop just outside Toronto next week for a seat fitting, review data and in-car videos from last year’s race, plus get acquainted with the car and the crew. The AIM Autosport No 61 Ford Riley qualified on the front row for the 2008 edition of the Six Hours of the Glen and finished the race in seventh place.
The Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen takes place on Saturday, June 6th starting at 2:00 p.m. ET. Practice begins on Thursday afternoon with qualifying on Friday. The race will be broadcast live on SPEED TV.
AIM Autosport Facts: Established in 1995, AIM Autosport’s mandate is 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 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
INDYCAR: Paul Tracy to Run in Toronto and Indy Toronto signs Schick sponsorship
KV Racing Technology to Field Car for Paul Tracy at Honda Indy Toronto and at Edmonton Race
KV Racing Technology will field a car for Paul Tracy at the two Canadian races on the 2009 IndyCar Series schedule, including the July 12 running of the Honda Indy Toronto and the Rexall Edmonton Indy on July 26. Tracy will team with Mario Moraes in a two-car effort for KVRT at the two Canadian events.
“I am pleased to announce that Paul Tracy will be joining KV Racing Technology for the two Canadian races,” said KVRT co-owner Kevin Kalkhoven. “Paul is one of the greatest and most exciting drivers in the history of the sport and has shown here at Indianapolis that he still has what it takes to be competitive. We look forward to having him drive for KVRT in front of his countrymen.”
Tracy will contest this weekend’s Indianapolis 500 with KV Racing Technology. He qualified the 13th and will start on the inside of Row #5.
“I want to thank Kevin Kalkhoven and Jimmy Vasser for the opportunity to continue my career and race in my home country,” Tracy said. “I feel very fortunate to be able to race in front of my hometown fans with a very competitive team. KVRT has shown that it can compete with the top teams in the series and I am confident that we will have strong performances at both the Canadian races.”
Tracy, whose talent and determination have made him a fan favorite, will be contesting his 17th race in Toronto. In 16 previous starts on the streets of Toronto he has finished in the top-10 a total of 11 times with eight top-five showings, five podium performances, two wins (1993 and 2003) and one pole.
Honda Indy Toronto Response to Tracy Announcement
“We are all excited to receive confirmation that the ‘Thrill from West Hill’ will be racing at the Honda Indy Toronto this July,” said Kevin Savoree, president of Andretti Green Toronto, promoters of the event. “This is great news for the event, fans and partners. Having Canada’s most prolific driver racing in Canada’s most prestigious race is a natural fit. Paul has always been a crowd favorite. As he’ll be aiming for his third win in Toronto, we can be confident Paul will put on a great show all weekend and will be out to prove that he remains one of the top open wheel racers in the world.”
Schick Quattro Signs on as Sponsor for the Honda Indy Toronto
Schick announced today it has signed a sponsorship agreement with Andretti Green Toronto for the 2009 Honda Indy Toronto. Schick Quattro will be an associate sponsor of the Honda Indy Toronto. To celebrate its sponsorship, Schick Quattro is gearing up with a series of pre-race and race-week sampling, contesting and consumer activities including the most extreme ride of the summer – a giant 6 x 6 foot Razor. Schick is inviting consumers to live on the edge and Ride the Schick Razor, challenging them to hang on as it spins, flexes and pivots during race week and at the track on race weekend. Schick also encourages race fans to join the talented team of Schick Quattro estheticians and receive advice on the facial hair treatment that's best suited to your style. Put their advice to the test with the Schick Quattro razor cam - upload a picture and see what different hair treatments work for you. For more information on Schick activities visit www.schick.ca.
KARTING: Equipment issues derail Stars of Canada Series
"Before things get any farther along, we regretfully announce the postponement of the Stars of Canada TV Series until 2010, due solely to equipment issues...."
See the full release here.
NCATS: Tim Hortons returns for another year with Lapcevich
Continuing one of the longest running sponsorship arrangements in motorsports, Jeff Lapcevich is pleased to announce the return of Tim Horton’s as primary sponsor for the #23 Tim Hortons Chevrolet set to compete in the 2009 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series.
It has been a nineteen year association with Tim Hortons and Fastline Motorsports with Jeff Lapcevich as driver of the #23 Tim Hortons Chevrolet and Lapcevich is proud to continue the partnership. “We have had a great relationship with all of the people at Tim Hortons for so many years, we’re proud to carry the name of perhaps the best known brand in Canada on the car” said Jeff Lapcevich.
Competing in the full series schedule this season Jeff Lapcevich and the Tim Hortons team have been very busy this off season preparing the car for competition. “We’ve really taken our time getting ready” said Lapcevich. “This is a grueling schedule that will take us from coast to coast in only a few months and we wanted to make sure that everything was prepared and checked thoroughly before we got onto the track” he added.
Rewind to 2004 the last time Lapcevich raced full-time when it was known as the CASCAR Super Series and you’ll find the kind of results the #23 Tim Hortons Chevrolet team expects this year. Three race wins and fourth in the overall Championship. “I’ve only run a partial schedule the last few years” said Lapcevich. “I was spending a lot of time with my son Cayden and his racing events. Knowing that I’m in the #23 Tim Hortons Chevrolet at every event gives me a great mindset and I know we can have the same kind of results this season” he concluded.
The 2009 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series opens competition this Saturday, May 23rd at the Autodrome St. Eustache. This years thirteen events will consist of ovals, road courses and temporary street circuits from coast to coast in Canada. All events are once again scheduled to appear on TSN. For More information about Jeff Lapcevich and Lapcevich racing log onto www.lapcevichracing.com.
Attached Photo Caption: Jeff Lapcevich in the #23 Tim Hortons Chevrolet on track at Mosport last season.
This release prepared by TL Sports & Entertainment
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Rick Young's 'Rick at the Races' May 15-17, 2009
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PHOTOS:
PIC 1 Ken Sproule winner of the Capital City Speedway Thunder Car Feature
PIC 2 Doug Mould, Capital City MiniStock winner with his wife Anna
PIC 3 Chad Windsor celebrates his Capital City Legend win with his father.
PIC 4 The Race Car Haulers arrive at the Cornwall Motor Speedway
PIC 5 This Modified attracted a lot of attention in the Cornwall Pits ( wonder why!)
PIC 6 Ottawa's McKenzie #12 is chased by Quebecs Boisvert # 95 at Cornwall
PIC 7 Brian MacDonald and Kayle Robidoux crash at Cornwall
PIC 8 Brian MacDonald and Kayle Robidoux crash at Cornwall
PIC 9 First three at Cornwall, O'Brien, Hebert and Clair
PIC 10 DIRT PROSTOCK winner at Cornwall, PJ PETERS
RICK @ the RACES (15/16/17 May)
CAPITAL CITY SPEEDWAY, Ottawa, Ont
CORNWALL MOTOR SPEEDWAY, Ont
After missing out on many Friday nights of racing because of work commitments, I volunteered to start two hours earlier this week, in an attempt to get finished earlier. My plan didn't really work ! I eventually 'got done' only slightly earlier and never clocked out until 6-45. I was determined not to be beaten and took off in the direction of Ottawa where I arrived at the Capital City Speedway soon after 8-15. The heat races were still taking place and I was able to get out on the center to get some photos before intermission.
The Bill of Fare included, 4 for Fun, Mini Stocks, Thunder Cars and Legends. There were no Late Models on the program but an Enduro had been added. Winners were Brian Sehl (4 for Fun), Doug Mould (Mini Stocks) Chad Windsor (Legend) Ken Sproule (Thunder Cars) and taking the Enduro honors was Robert Broom. It was great to see Doug Mould in Victory Lane , his wife Anna 'covers' for me on CCS photographic duties when I can't attend. It was a warm and sunny night.
My Saturday turned out to be much the same way as the previous week. The plan was to attend the season opener at the Brockville Ontario Speedway, but once again Mother Nature had other ideas. After raining throughout the day it was no surprise when the track answering machine announced the cancellation. I had five other tracks within reach to salvage my day, so began scanning the internet and making phone calls for updates on their status. The ACT Late Model race at Autodrome St Eustache (Que) had been postponed until Sunday as were the Sprint Car races at the Brighton Speedway (Ont). The Airborne Speedway at Plattsburgh (NY) and the season opener at Autodrome Drummond (Que) had both been canceled. The only place that still had hopes of running was the Thunder Alley Speedway at Evans Mills (NY).
I left it as late as I could before leaving home and made another phone call to the track before crossing the border to the USA at Ogdensburg. The news was still positive so continued on my merry way. I then went through a lot of heavy rain and was fearing the worst. Sure enough, on arrival at the track that late storm had caused the inevitable, and the place was almost deserted apart from a handfull of staff. It was then a drive back to Long Sault, Ontario for another Saturday at home. On a brighter note ... Grolsch was on offer in the stores this week ! so I'd got a good supply of cold ones on standby for my return.
The sun was shining on Sunday, and it was the big one race fans in Eastern Ontario and Quebec had been waiting for, the 2009 opener of the Cornwall Motor Speedway (Ont). Not only was it the season opener, it was also round one in the 2009 LUCAS OILS CANADIAN DIRT SERIES for 358 Modifieds.
I arrived early and as expected there was a large turnout of both race cars and fans. There were 48 Modifieds and over 20 Dirt Pro Stocks which were complimented by a good field of both Rookies and Semi Pro's.
The 100 lap main event got off to a start with 2008 champion David Hebert of Quebec and New Yorks Dale Planck setting the pace. The first half of the race was plagued with cautions and a red flag stoppage for a rollover by Brian MacDonald but once things got going, a hard fought race began between Hebert, fellow Quebecer Mario Clair and Kingston , Ontario's Danny O'Brien. As the checkers approached it was O'Brien in the place that mattered to take the spoils. I must mention a great piece of driving by second placed Hebert, while challenging for the lead. In hot pursuit , he overcooked it slightly on turn four, did a complete 360 degree turn, put the foot hard on the gas, and quickly rejoined the race in front of third placed Clair. That was spectacular !
The Dirt Pro Stock Feature was won by PJ Peters and the Rookie event by Eli Gilbert.The Semi Pro Feature was held over until next week due to the time factor.
OTHER STUFF
While I was at the Cornwall Motor Speedway on Sunday , I had a good chat with Rookie driver and 'announcers night mare' Gerry Ozkachewicz ( we all call him Gerry 'O'.) He's seriously thinking of moving up into the DIRT SPORTSMAN division and is on the look out for a suitable used car. His preference is for a BICKNELL, so if anyone can help with info, please let let me know and I'll pass it on to Gerry
With regard to rain-outs and damp conditions I had a message from my old buddy Colin Herridge in the UK. As regular readers will know, racing is rarely canceled for rain in Europe. The cars are fitted with suitable tires and the drivers do their best to cope , while the hardy fans stand out in the rain and watch. ( yep, I must have been crazy ! ) Colin sent me a video clip he discovered from a wet F1 Stock Car race I attended at the Gruitrode Circuit in Belgium in the early 1980's. I remember it well, my daughter Carla , was a baby at the time, just a few months old and it was one of her first races overseas .(Her push chair got a bit muddy that day! )
www.listal.com/video/100393693
Another little gem that came from Colin was this clip of film that shows what happens when the pace/safety car gets in the way of a pack of race cars.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYO4yPmf5AI
I also had a message from Kai Goddard from Phoenix AZ informing me of a new project he is involved in. Kai, the son of 1970's Spedeworth Superstox World Champion has teamed up with Matt Simmons, Bruce Macinnes and Jeff Andretti ( son of Mario) to form the JEFF ANDRETTI COACHING GROUP. They offer a number of services to the 'would be race driver' or the everyday driver wanting to upgrade his skills. Check out the website
www.jeffandretticoachinggroup.com
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