REDEFINING THE COMFORT ZONE – ENGLISHMAN ADAM CHRISTODOULOU TOPS TIME SHEETS DURING TWO-DAY STAR MAZDA CHAMPIONSHIP TEST AT IOWA SPEEDWAY

Iowa Speedway (May 28, 2009) – The second day of a two-day Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear test at Iowa Speedway was run under ideal conditions, with 14 drivers turning a total of 4,628 laps around the 7/8ths-mile oval.

Widely experienced in road racing in both Europe and the U.S., but with no previous experience of any kind on an oval, current championship leader Englishman Adam Christodoulou redefined his comfort zone and turned the fastest lap of the day -- and the test -- a 22.059 (145.900 mph) in his #11 JDC Motorsports / Molecule Mazda. The best time on day one was set by Louisiana racer Alex Ardoin with a 22.109 (145.589 mph) in his #51 JDC Motorsports / Oral & Facial Surgery Center / Twister Trailer Mazda. Billy Goshen ran the most laps of the day, 258, in his #82 Goshen Motorsports / Baker Commodities / GPSTrackit / OTTO / First Quality Concrete Mazda, setting a 9th-fast time of 22.269.

By the time the final lap was run, all 14 cars in the test were within 7/10ths of a second of each other, setting the stage for an evening of extremely competitive, side-by-side racing when the full Star Mazda Championship field takes to the track for 100 laps under the lights at the upcoming Pizza Ranch 100 on July 10.

"It's taken four days to get to the stage we're at; the first three days on an oval (including the Milwaukee test last week) we ended up struggling with the car quite a bit, but we've been chipping away at it," says Christodoulou, the 2008 U.K. Formula Renault champion who is currently leading the 2009 Star Mazda championship points battle with two wins (Sebring and Miller Motorsports Park) and two poles (Miller and Virginia International Raceway). "I didn't realize quite how hard it was going to be just going around in circles. I can't believe how close the racing is, how high the standard of oval racing is – it's been quite a surprise, but I've been working with my team, JDC Motorsports and its all working pretty well now. When you watch oval racing from the grandstands, it looks like they're going around and obviously they're getting a tow and slipstreaming and overtaking each other; but when you're actually in the seat, I reckon the scariest moments are when you come out of the pits because the first lap you've got to have faith in the car to know that it's going to stick to the ground and obviously around Iowa its touch-and-go flat-out all the way around, but with a wall five meters on either side of you there's not much room for error. Luckily I managed to keep it off the wall for the four days, but it takes a lot of getting used to; you have to start out with a bit of understeer in the car -- the last thing you want on an oval is oversteer -- so you have to start with understeer and build it up lap by lap. I reckon it was about my 30th lap when I got used to the track and realizing how wide and fast it was."

Although the Star Mazda Championship has raced on ovals previously, including Pikes Peak and the Milwaukee Mile, this will be the first visit to the 7/8ths mile Iowa Speedway Oval by the rotary-powered, 250-horsepower Star Mazda Championship cars. By way of comparison, the fastest lap by a V-8-powered, 420 horsepower Indy Lights car at this track last year was 20.0971 sec. Michael McDowell (the 2004 Star Mazda series champion), raced to a 2nd-place finish in the 2007 ARCA RE/MAX Prairie Meadows 250 after qualifying 7th with a lap of 23.999-sec. in his No. 2 Z-Line Designs / Mission Residential / Beck Dodge. McDowell, who graduated from Star Mazda to Indy Cars and prototype sports cars before moving to stock cars, went on to race NASCAR Sprint Cup in 2008 and is currently driving the #47 in the NASCAR Nationwide Series.

The Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear is scheduled to make its first appearance at the Iowa Speedway in the Pizza Ranch 100 on July 10. The format will feature 100 laps of flat-out racing under the lights during an ARCA RE/MAX weekend, with the green flag scheduled to wave at 8:30 pm.

The Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear is now in its 19th year as one of the most successful open-wheel driver development series in North America. The Star Mazda Championship the college basketball, the triple-A baseball of auto racing, a high-speed training ground for future stars of the sport and a major step on the MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development Ladder and automaker-supported scholarship program that provides funding for young champions to move up to the next level of racing. Graduates of the Star Mazda Championship included three drivers in last weekend's Indy 500 field; Marco Andretti, Graham Rahal and Raphael Matos, as well as seven of 21 drivers in the Indy Lights series.

Iowa testing photo courtesy of Ryan at Junior Open Wheel Talent

Wonderland Speedway: May 29th event cancelled

From the track.... "Due to extremely wet track conditions, tonight's races at Wonderland Speedway have been cancelled. See everyone next week."

Advertiser of the Day - Jones Brown Insurance

NASCAR: Canadian J.R. Fitzpatrick qualifies 16th for Truck Series race at Dover

DOVER, DE - Canadian J.R. Fitzpatrick will start from the 16th position tonight in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series AAA Insurance 200 at Dover (Del.) International Speedway in his debut with Kevin Harvick Inc. The first driver to make his qualifying run, Fitzpatrick's quickest time around the one-mile oval track was 23.729 seconds. The race will be broadcast tonight at 8:00 p.m., ET, on SPEED.

From Tyler Patterson / Kevin Harvick Inc. PR

Yokohama Tire Canada - Rally Photo Contest

Cordeiro report; Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Race series underway!

If you haven't heard, Volkswagen of North America is now in its second year of the Jetta TDI Cup.
During the Jetta TDI Cup season, drivers will compete in ten events on eight road courses around North America in identical factory-prepared and maintained Jetta TDI’s powered by clean diesel. The series Champion will win $100,000. In addition, each driver who competes in the series will earn a Pro Racing license from SCCA at the conclusion of the season. The Jetta TDI Cup car is powered by a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder TDI clean diesel engine with six-speed, double-clutch, automatic DSG transmission. The car is only slightly modified from stock with race suspension and brakes.

2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup race series schedule:
Round 1 & 2 - April 24 – 26 - VIRginia International Raceway - Alton, VA (with Grand-Am)
Round 3 - May 15 – 17 - Miller Motorsports Park - Salt Lake City, UT (with ALMS)
Round 4 - June 19 – 21 - Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course- Lexington, OH (with Grand-Am)
Round 5 - July 24 – 26 - Autobahn Country Club - Joliet, IL (with Atlantics)
Round 6 - Aug. 14 – 16 - Road America – Elkhart Lake, WI (with ALMS)
Round 7 - Aug. 28 – 30 - Mosport International Raceway – Mosport, ON (Canada) (with ALMS)Round 8 & 9 - Sept. 11 – 13 - New Jersey Motorsports Park – Millville, NJ (with ARCA)
Round 10 - Sept. 25 – 27 - Road Atlanta – Braselton, GA (with ALMS)

Check out the sample preview to "Racing Under Green" which can also be seen at http://www.makehasteracing.com/

Stay tuned, updates to follow shortly!

Cheers.




http://www.makehasteracing.com/
http://www.vw.com/
http://www.scca.com/contentpage.aspx?content=105
http://www.can-alignment.com/
http://www.hotbits.ca/
http://www.hyperfuels.com/

Humberstone Speedway: May 24, 2009 Report

Port Colborne, Ontario was the place to be on Sunday May.24. As New Humberstone Speedway completed week #5 of LIVE Dirt track stock car racing. Five action packed divisions were on hand, with the best racers from Western New York, and Southern Ontario to duel it out in each division. B.J. Willard took top honors in the Dirt Car Sportsman, Jason Fontaine was the first to the checkers in the Street Stocks, Kevin Aube once again came home first in the Pro 4 Trucks, Dave Small picked up his second win of the season in the 4 cylinder Ministocks, While Aaron Vasas made it 2 for 2 in the Pure stock division.

The first feature of the night was the all New affordable Pure Stock class. This class is continuing to grow as 13 Pure Stocks signed into the pits. Vasas took the lead from the drop of the green flag. Mike Greene took his number 8  to the second spot, with the 86 of Terry Ronning running in the 3rd spot. On lap 4 Ronning made the pass for 2nd . Race leader Vasas extended his lead to almost a half track advantage. On lap 8 Vasas would encounter lap traffic. The 5c of Jason Coutu made his presence known moving into the top 3 on lap 9. At the same time Greene who fell back to 4th began a charge back to the front. Greene quickly got back into the 2nd spot, and on the last lap caught Vasas and made the pass coming out of turn 4 to the checkers. Unfortunately for Greene a post race tech inspection would find an illegal rear end, and Greene Would be disqualified for the night. Top 5 1) 8  Mike Greene (DQ’d) 2) 6 Aaron Vasas 3) 86 Terry Ronning (Dq’D) 4) 5 Jason Coutu 5) 38 Sam Iftody.

Next feature up was the 4 cylinder Mini Socks  led to the green by the number 5 of Carey Gore and the 47x Kyle Pelrine.  First lap action as 48 of Rob Overholt made it three wide for the lead. Evan Curtis and his 2ez machine would take the lead. Curtis led till lap five when the caution came out for the 38 of Sam Rogers, spinning in turn 2. On the restart it would be Overholt who would take over the lead. The yellow would come out again on lap seven  as Kyle Pelrine got some help and lost the handle in turn 2. On the restart Overholt would continue to lead, but the 67s of Dave Small and Evan Curtis would start putting the pressure on the race leader. Curtis would regain the lead on lap 11. Lap 13 would be unlucky for Curtis as Dave Small would get by bringing the 71 of Garnet Wilson and the 16 of Rob Goulding with him. Wilson and Goulding would not be able to challenge Small for the win, as he would go on and win his second feature of the season. Top 5 1) 67s Dave Small  2) 71 Garnet Wilson  3) 16 Rob Goulding  4) 2ez Evan Curtis  5) 48 Rob Overholt

Niagara Auto Sales Pro 4 Trucks were up next with the 43 of Scott Sherk and number 7 of Hilary Haegens bringing the field to the green. A tough break for young rookie Kameron Kocarik as his number 41k would break before taking the green flag. Sherk grabbed the early lead with the 117 of Billy Beales in 2nd, and the 5 of Kevin Aube making big moves early. Aube would take over the 2nd spot on lap 4 and one lap later took over the top spot. A lap 6 yellow as the k51 of John Low and 14j of Jacob Davies tangled in turn 4. On the restart the 32a of Andy Imbeault got a really good run and took over the lead from Aube. Aube would come right back one lap later and regain the top spot. A red flag on lap 11 as the 64 of Don Lessard lost his steering on his truck and hit the front stretch jersey barrier. Lessard’s truck climbed the barrier and hit the fence. Luckily the safety fence did its job and kept the truck from entering the grandstands. Aube would cruise to the win. Top 5   1) 5 Kevin Aube  2) 32a Andy Imbeault  3) 29 Doug Banner  4) 117 Billy Beales  5) 2v Mike Toovey

The Brian’s Tire Repair Street Stocks were up next and the 711 of Blake Reichel and 01 jr of Barry Beck led the field to the green. The Street Stocks always put on some of the finest racing anywhere and it didn’t take long to get it going in this one. As on the first lap the 108 of Billy Bleich would make it 4 wide with the 1j of Jason Fontaine and Beck for the 4th spot. One lap later it was the 56 of Rob Murray, Reichel, the 88 of Shane Pierce going three wide for the 5th spot. Tough break for Reichel as he would lose the handle in the three wide battle and bring out the yellow.

The restart saw 1j of Fontaine as the race leader followed by Bleich and Murray. Once back to green we would see it three wide once again as the 10 of Jaren Israel looked to the inside of Bleich and Murray. Murray would come out in second followed by Israel and Bleich. While they were battling behind him Fontaine was able to pull out to a comfortable lead. Israel moved into the runner up spot on lap 8 and set his sights on the leader. Meanwhile Pierce and the 37r of Roger Israel were having their own battle for the 4th position. Israel would close in on leader Fontaine but ran out of time. Fontaine picked up the win. Top 5   1) 1j Jason Fontaine  2)  10 Jaren Israel  3)  56b Rob Murray  4)  Shayne Pierce  5)  37r Roger Israel 

The last feature of the night was The Cosco Haulage Sportsman.  The 53 of Rich Farraway and the 88 of Scott Spiece brought the field to the green. Spiece would dive under Farraway and grab the lead. The 5s of Kevin Sharpe followed in the 3rd spot. Farraway would take over the lead on lap 3, as the 7 of Cody McPherson moved into the top five.  B.J. Willard on lap 5 went from 4th to second and started his sights on leader Farraway. Lap 8 saw a three wide battle for the 3rd spot as Spiece, McPherson and Sharpe would battle it out. McPherson would win this battle taking over the 3rd spot.

The top 4 on lap 11 would bunch up, and then go three wide for the lead as Sharpe, Willard and McPherson would freight train Farraway back to 4th.  For the next five laps Willard and Sharpe would run side by side swapping the lead several times. Willard would gain control of the lead on lap 21 and not be challenged to the checkers. But a 5 car battle for the 4th spot brought the crowd to their feet in the closing laps. It would be the 20k of Brad Rouse winning that battle. Top 5  1)  77 B.J. Willard  2)  5s Kevin Sharpe  3) 7 Cody McPherson  4)  20k Brad Rouse  5)  88 Jr Doug Spiece jr.  

Sniper Alley Paintball was also on hand and did a paintball demonstration at intermission. A pre race autograph session and pit party was held before the races. Thanks to all those drivers and crews who came out and supported that event. The next one will be in 3 weeks. Stay tuned for details as We look to make it bigger and better!!!!.

Once again another great racing program featuring the BEST drivers anywhere put on a thriller show in all classes. Track officials were able to end show once again at 9pm.

Be Sure to Join Us next week as Brian’s Tire Repair Presents: Ministocks, Street Stocks, Sportsman 358 Modifieds and Modlite Stars Tour North Series. Non stop racing action gets under way at 6pm.

For more information log onto   www.humberstonespeedway.com or call the race hotline at 905 834 4002.

From Tom Beales // New Humberstone Speedway Public Relations Director

Delaware Speedway Insider: May 29 event preview

PHONE GUIDE NIGHT: Race Date: May 29, 2009
       
Doubles for the APC Late Models, Super Stocks, Demar Trucks + Ultimate Chaos Cars!

What a night Delaware Speedway has planned for this Friday night!  High-calibre APC Late Model racing with double 30-lap feature races and time trials (time trials at 7:30), as well as Super Stocks and Demar Aggregates Trucks!  Following the feature races will be the wild Ultimate Sandblasting & Coating Chaos Cars running under the lights in what promises to be yet another thrilling Chaos Course.

Don't forget - - next Friday & Saturday make up a very big weekend at Delaware Speedway!  Friday night is the return of the winged Auto-Value Super Sprints, and Saturday is the running of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Delaware 200 presented by Belfor.  Advanced tickets are available for purchase through the webpage - - and they're on for discount compared to the gate price.

Click here for full speedway schedule! <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=30069831&msgid=211005&act=HDII&c=464674&admin=0&destination=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.delawarespeedway.com%2Fschedule.php>
       
Online Advanced Tickets Are Go!  Buy Now and Save!
Delaware Speedway launched the new online ticket system this week.  Tickets are available for next weekend.  Click here for the full press release <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=30069831&msgid=211005&act=HDII&c=464674&admin=0&destination=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.delawarespeedway.com%2F2009-05-28--OnlineTickets.php> .

Fans that purchase tickets in advance will save off the gate price.  Don't miss out!  Click here to go right to the tickets page. <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=30069831&msgid=211005&act=HDII&c=464674&admin=0&destination=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.delawarespeedway.com%2Fncatstickets.php>   Get them before the advanced window closes next week!
       
NCATS / AVSS Mini-Site Launches

A mini-website has launched for the Nascar Canadian Tire Series / Auto Value Super Sprints Weekend.  The site puts all the information for visiting next weekend in one place.  If you know of people visiting from out of town be sure to point them in the right direction.

Click Here to view the mini-site <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=30069831&msgid=211005&act=HDII&c=464674&admin=0&destination=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.delawarespeedway.com%2Fncatstickets.php> .
       
Throne King's Powder Puff Madness

You may have seen the folks from Throne King's up on the hill with some mid-sized vehicles the past few weeks.  Here's why: click here to learn about the program <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=30069831&msgid=211005&act=HDII&c=464674&admin=0&destination=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.delawarespeedway.com%2F2009-05-29--PowderPuffMadness.php> .  Be sure to get yourself (or your wife...) a ticket today!
       
Prepared by: John Houghton, Delaware Speedway Announcer / PR (519) 652-5068 Ext 201
We look forward to having you at the track this weekend!

PHOTO GALLERY: St-Eustache / NCTS event #1

This is a 498 photo gallery from the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, NASCAR Ippersiel and NASCAR Sport Compact racing held at Autodrome St-Eustache in St-Eustache, QC. The race was held on May 23th, 2009 and was the first NCTS event of the 2009 schedule.

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

PHOTO GALLERY: ACT TOUR Event #5

This is a 343 photo gallery from the American-Canadian Tour (ACT)'s Mekkersen RV Memorial Day Classic held at Thunder Road Speedbowl in Barre, VT. The race was held on May 24th, 2009 and is the fifth race on the ACT Championship schedule.

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

PHOTO GALLERY: Flamboro Speedway - May 23, 2009

This is a 238-photo gallery from Flamboro Speedway on Saturday, May 23, 2009. Derek Smith of Racepulse.com filled in for Dave for the evening while Dave was in Charlotte at the NASCAR races. Full-size versions of these photos are available from Dave Franks (DaveFranksPhotos.com), who would like to thank Derek for looking after Flamboro's racers, fans and sponsors on Saturday. I'd like to thank both of them for sharing.

Tillsonburg Speedway: May 26, 2009 report

Race results for Tuesday May 26 2009 Tillsonburg Speedway and Outlaw Kart Club

TILLSONBURG, ON - What a difference a week can make as our racers are racing faster and faster trying to charge to the front. Sometimes at the expense of the previous winners, and so should it go. This was the 4th race of the spring series and the rivalries are heating up, not only on the track where they should be but some of the parents (mainly one) lost their composure when things did not go the way they hoped on the track for their team. Let’s just say that being called a Hockey Mom at a race track is not a complement.

On the flip side there are no little kids out picking flowers in the middle of the soccer field. Good racing is an intense sport. Racers young and old want to try for a win but passing someone that wants to win just as bad as you do is not always pretty. Get over it. Do not expect for anyone to get out of the way so your little Johnny can win the race. When Johnny earns it, he will get to the front. If Johnny is already at the front, you can surely expect every racer wants to replace him. With out this challenge, racing would be boring as all get out. In fact we would have to change our name to the Tillsonburg Parade Organization. Ya right—not going to happen. For now we will keep turning up the pressure to provide great racing and a fun atmosphere and hopefully no parents self distruct in the process.

The Beginners races made some great entertainment as they are all convinced they can win and are going about trying to do so. #93 Amber Meyer of Tillsonburg got caught trying to pass on the outside when there was not room to do so and took one off the wildest hoops and bounce that I have seen this year. A bent axle was the result and a drop from being point’s leader to 3rd overall was the net result. #5 DJ Christie from Beachville looked to be the man to beat in the first heat and took the win but when a derailed chain took him out in the next main his results suffered. Never fear as he made the final and grabbed the checkers and moved into a 1st place tie for the season.

#95 Lightning McQueen (Jayven March of London) drove not only a smart race but a very fast one as he won the 1st main and garnered 2nd in the last one. That was enough to grab overall for the night and move also into a tied for 1st position for the season. Also looking sharp after some weekend practice was #17 Brandon Norris from Brantford finishing 2-3-4.  #48 Andrew Marshall of Dorchester got his Kart repaired after some dicing two weeks ago and finished well with a 4-2-5. Once these youngsters figure out just how fast they really can go we will see them at the front lots more.

The Junior Division was missing a couple racers this week but you can bet the racing was no less exiting. #5 Conor Mahoney of Hamilton is determined to prove the worth of his prototype racer and was successful in the 10 lap sprint but had to ultimately settle for a pair of 2nds in the mains 1-2-2. None the less, #30 Josh Beecroft of Ridgetown drove well all night with 3-3-5 but just could not stay with the Mahoney kart. #15 Mitch Anderson also from Ridgetown met a similar fate with a 5-4-3. Not held back however was the # 20 Kart of DJ McRae of London who was denied the win in the 10 lap sprint but the longer mains gave him enough time to make the pass and win both. 2-1-1. DJ ran most of the races glued to the back of Conor’s kart as he tried passing in multiple places and eventually got by just before the checkered flag.

The Seniors finally broke out and provided the action that 11 karts running in a pack just has to result. I was starting to worry that nobody was going to give the #75 kart of Dylan Chesterman of Tillsonburg the race action he deserves. Several capable racers seemed content to follow the leader around like the pied piper but this week the crap stopped and the race was on. As I said at the onset of the season we were going to handicap the point’s leaders and make it hard to win and the fully inverted starting grids is doing just that. #96 Mark Chesterman of (London, Langton, Kitchener- where do you live anyway?)  was out to show he could run a fast pace and managed a respectable 4th on the night.

Also seeded into the field was the #61 kart that was guest driven by last year’s multi track champions Holly Porter and Scott Chesterman. Taking turns running the borrowed kart, they had no intentions of anything less than 1st and with mid pack starts were able to take the wins in each run. 1-1-1. Now I have to wonder how can #81 Cassidy March and #88 Devin Jarvis both of London run so fast in this star studded night and yet not pressure the current points leader more? Devin took 3rd overall with Cassidy grabbing 2nd. I think these two got it figured out that they are capable of running faster than they have been. Also causing commotion this week on his first night out was #79 Mark Courtnage of Harley.

This kart was meant to be driven by his daughter Kate but since she has yet to drive it the team decision (I know dad was dying to race it) was to make use of Kate’s Kart and Pink helmet and let Dad drive. Well ya gotta be tough to wear a Pink lid. Although Mark took a while to figure out where the slick spots on the track were, he drove some really fast laps and was not about to get out of anyone’s way. Can you imagine a racer coming to the track to race?  In the end it was awesome racing with traffic everywhere and a racer had to be on his/her toes to run fast and stay on the lead lap. Let’s see what next week brings.

The Expert class enjoyed the tacky track this week. The unbelievable pull down the straights just has to be experienced. Next week should see the return of the #63 kart which just might give us more entertainment as we beat him up now that we have 3 extra weeks racing under our belts. Time will tell.

If you would like more information on the weekly Outlaw Kart racing at Chesterman's - call 519-842-5977

Chesterman Power Products // Tillsonburg Indoor MX // www.chesterman.ca // 519-842-5977

ARCA RE/MAX Series Race at Cayuga Motor Speedway cancelled

TOLEDO, OH (5-27-09) - Officials of the Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA) and Cayuga Motor Speedway today announced that the ARCA RE/MAX Series race scheduled for June 28 at Cayuga, has been cancelled and will not be rescheduled.

"We looked forward to building on the 2008 RE/MAX Series event we established at Cayuga, but we've determined that pressing on for 2009 is not in the best interests of the series," said ARCA President Ron Drager. "We wish Jerry Santucci and Cayuga well going forward."

It marks the first time since 1998 that an event on ARCA's 57-year-old national tour was taken off the schedule under such circumstances.

"We at Cayuga Motor Speedway accept responsibility for this unfortunate circumstance," said track President Jerry Santucci. "ARCA is a first class racing organization and we regret the inconvenience this causes the series, its teams, sponsors and fans. We worked diligently, but as deadlines approached it became increasingly apparent we would not be able to promote and conduct the event successfully due to issues within our ownership group."

The Rocky Mountain Rally brings teams West for the second round of the Canadian Rally Championship

STOUFFVILLE, Ontario (CARS Media) – The Canadian Rally Championship presented by Subaru and supported by Yokohama heads West to Calgary this weekend for the two-day Rocky Mountain Rally. After a four-month break since round one, teams are eager to resume the championship fight.

Antoine L'Estage and Nathalie Richard of St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Que., lead the championship after winning the season-opening Rallye Perce Neige in February. The pair will be in their new Mitsubishi Evolution X.

"We had a great start to the season,” said L'Estage. “We haven't had a lot of time testing on gravel, but I've won Rocky twice before and I feel really confident.”

L'Estage and Richard will have to fight off defending Canadian Rally Champions Pat Richard of Squamish, B.C., and Alan Ockwell of Toronto. Last year, the pair debuted a new Subaru Impreza STI at the Rocky Mountain Rally and won the event despite brake issues.

"Every event is do-or-die in terms of the championship,” said Richard, who failed to finish the opening rally of the season. “We want to win, but we do need to finish to earn points.”

This event also marks the ten year anniversary of Richard's first rally, when he debuted in a stock Subaru complete with snowboard roof rack! His current factory-backed Subaru will sport a new graphics package for this Rocky Mountain Rally.

Andrew Comrie-Picard of Toronto will be on hand in his Mitsubishi Evolution X, which is still in development. Comrie-Picard is fresh off two strong events in the U.S., and hopes to continue that trend with a strong finish at the Rocky Mountain Rally. “We're going to go as hard as possible,” said Comrie-Picard.

Nick Mathew of Calgary and sister, Kelly Mathew from Caledon, Ont., are coming to Rocky Mountain Rally for the first time as competitors. The pair won the most recent event on the Ontario Performance Rally series and have been working on improving their techniques.

A number of Calgary based teams will be contesting the event, including the two wheel drive entries of Zbigniew Szewczyk and Tomasz Karzynski in their Mitsubishi Lancer, and Eric Grochowski and Leanne Junnila in their VW Golf. Gord Olsen is always a threat for a top finish at this event in his Subaru Impreza STI, and relative newcomers, Hardy Schmidtke and co-driver, Adam Vokes will be aiming to repeat their top five finish from the Rocky Mountain Rally in 2008.

Held May 29-30, 2009, the Rocky Mountain Rally is the first gravel rally in the Canadian Rally Championship and takes place in the mountains that give the event its name. The higher altitude creates special challenges for the crews as engines struggle in the thin air.

Rally car racing is often described simply as “real cars, real roads, real fast.” The all-season motorsport sees drivers and their co-drivers take modified road cars to the limit as they achieve blistering speeds over closed-road courses that typically cover more than 150 kilometres of gravel, dirt or snow-covered roads. Fans can get up close to the cars in the service areas and catch all the action from specially designated spectator points located at the best spots on the route.

The Canadian Rally Championship is comprised of six events held nationwide in a season that extends from February to November. The series is presented by Subaru Canada, supported by Yokohama Tire Canada and features contingency programs from Subaru Canada and Mitsubishi Canada. The Canadian Association of Rallysport (CARS) is the official sanctioning body for rallying in Canada.

Full coverage of the championship will air on RDS and TSN. Check local listings.

For more information: Terry Epp, National Series Manager, 905-640-6444, or crc@carsrally.ca On the web: www.CARSrally.ca; www.rockymountainrally.com. // PHOTO: Andrew Harvey

Canadian rally: Mitsubishi Top Teams vie for Rocky Mountain Top Honours

Mitsubishi Top Teams vie for Rocky Mountain Top Honours

Toronto (May 26, 2009) – The Canadian Rally Championship is moving west to Calgary for the Rocky Mountain Rally this coming weekend and Mitsubishi will have some of its winningest crews enter the second round of the season.  North American and twice Canadian champions and winners of the first round earlier in February, Antoine L'Estage and codriver Nathalie Richard, will take to the roads Friday evening in their 2009 Lancer Evolution. Albertans Zbigniew Szewczyk and Tomasz Karzynski will follow in a Group 5 Ralliart model while returning Production champions, brothers Jan and Jody Zedril from Manitoba are now entering the Group 2 class. These three teams are looking for an outright victory, a podium finish and a class win.

Presently 3rd in the Rally America standings, Andrew Comrie-Picard and Brit codriver Robbie Durant will charge as well for a podium place in another 09 Evolution. Synchro Autosport from Blainville, Quebec is also fielding a couple of Evolution 8 RSs with the usual Losier father and son crews. First, Réjean with codriver Maxime, then Simon, the 2008 Mitsubishi Cup winner, will pair up with François Morin. Finally, Mike Elhard and Thomas Chichak will vie for top rookie title in a first generation Evolution. 

"We were very pleased with Antoine L'Estage taking a first win with the new Evolution this winter", stated Koji Soga, President and CEO of MitsFromubishi Motor Sales of Canada. "We hope he repeats this feat again in the Rockies. But other Mitsubishi crews are also very deserving and we hope our Rally Program helps them in their quest for titles in their own classes. The standings for the Mitsubishi Cup show Antoine leading but we know it is a long season and Andrew and the Losier family will attack every event."

Event profile: Rocky Mountain Rally
After the usual Friday afternoon procedures before the official start, Antoine L'Estage will head out first on the road for a few spectator stages before the cars enter Parc fermé for night. Saturday morning will see the southern trek to the Porcupine Hills where most of the event will be held. This area in the past has offered every possible scenario, from hot and dusty roads to heavy snow. At the end of the long 12-hour day, teams will gather in Pincher Creek for the podium ceremony. For more information, please visit www.rockymountainrally.com or visit our password free media website at www.mitsubishi-motors-pr.ca

From Susan Elliott, Manager, Corporate & Product Communications

Indianapolis Motor Speedway releases statement in response to reports on Tony George's status with IMS

INDIANAPOLIS MOTOR SPEEDWAY STATEMENT

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

At a regular meeting of the board of directors of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Tuesday, May 26, board members asked Tony George, chief executive officer of the IMS companies, to devise a plan for management of Hulman & Company, the Indy Racing League, Clabber Girl and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway that would allow him to focus on the business which requires the greatest attention. This plan is to be presented to the board at a meeting later this year.

IMS Chairman of the Board Mari Hulman George said: “There was a general discussion about the challenges and opportunities facing all of our companies and where most of our energies need to be spent. All of our properties are doing well, given the challenges of the current economy. The Indy Racing League represents our greatest growth opportunity and therefore deserves the most attention at this point.”

Tony George said: “Contrary to published reports, I continue to serve as CEO of IMS. Our board of directors met yesterday, and we did discuss how to best confront challenges and exploit opportunities facing our businesses. This is nothing new and is something that we continually do as a board. But no changes in leadership or responsibility have been made. We don’t normally comment on board deliberations concerning our family business. However, the widespread, inaccurate reports and rumors caused my mother and me to conclude that it was necessary to set the record straight. If changes are made in the management of the company that are newsworthy, we will announce them when they are made.”

Media Contact:  Ron Green, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, (317) 492-6780, rgreen@brickyard.com
World Wide Web: http://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com

SPEED: Tony George ousted from control of Indianapolis Motor Speedway

SPEED is reporting that Tony George was voted out of power (mostly by his own family members) during an Indianapolis Motor Speedway board meeting on Tuesday evening.

George was at IMS' helm for the past 20 years and was a key player in the IRL / ChampCar split/feud, as well as the introduction of NASCAR, F1 and motorcycles to IMS' annual schedule. George will reportedly continue as CEO of the IndyCar series.

Click here for Robin Miller's full story on SPEED.

Inside Track Canadian Racers Contingency Program

New for 2009, Inside Track Motorsport News is opening up its contingency program for Canadian racers to competitors across the country. In short, it's not just for stock car racers anymore!

In order to qualify for a free Inside Track Canadian Racers Contingency Program "Thank Your Sponsor(s)" ad in a year-end issue of Inside Track Motorsport News ($400 value... click here for a sample), here's what you need to do:

1. Send an email to contingency@insidetracknews.com with the subject line "Contingency". BE SURE to include your mailing address! When we receive your email, we will send you two Inside Track decals (two for your racecar / dragster / motorcycle / kart, etc.) and a spare one for your street car or toolbox.


2. Subscribe to Inside Track. In addition to the decals, we'll also send you a discount subscription form with the decals. To be eligible for a free $400 "Thank Your Sponsor(s)" ad, you will need to be a subscriber in good standing to Inside Track. You can also subscribe by clicking here or by calling (416) 962-7223.


3. Display two stickers prominently on your racing vehicle. Be sure to get some high-resolution photos of the car/bike/kart (hopefully in victory lane!). You'll need to send us one of these as a high-res JPG image when it's time to run your ad.


4. Finish in the top 10 in the year-end points in your grassroots track, class or series.


5. Round about August, come back to www.insidetracknews.com and look for the Inside Track Canadian Racers Contingency Program button on the mainpage. Click on that and you'll be able to download the contingency ad submission form... fill it out... and send it in.

THE CASTROL TOURING CARS ROAR INTO SHANNONVILLE

May 27, 2009 - Shannonville OntarioThe Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship presented by Toyo Tires heads to famed Shannonville Motorsports Park, just east of Belleville Ontario, May 30 & 31st for The Annual Spring Trillium Trophy Races hosted by Deutscher Automobil Club.

This will be Round two of the championship’s 2009 season. It was just two short weeks ago when 36 of Canada's Best Drivers Racing Today's Hottest Touring Cars started the season schedule at Mosport International Raceway. Fans were treated to intense racing action all weekend long.

Acura, BMW, Saab, Nissan, Honda, Hyundai, Chevrolet, Mazda, Toyota and Subaru are just some of the brands being showcased by the competitors this weekend. We invite all racing fans to come witness some of the hottest racing action in Ontario and cheer on your favourite marque.

Round one Touring Class feature race winner, Anthony Rapone, in his Honda Civic SI will be trying to repeat his past performance as will Super Touring Class winner Nigel Krikorian, piloting his Can-Jam prepared Subaru WRX STI.

The CCTCC will be the feature race series this weekend with a full 30-minute practice session, a 30-minute qualifying session and a thrilling 20-minute race on Saturday as well as a 20 minute warm up and capping off the weekend with a 40 minute feature race on Sunday.

The Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship Presented By Toyo Tires is Canada's Premiere Touring Car Series and features Canada's Best Drivers Racing Today's Hottest Touring Cars. The Championship is showcased at eight event weekends in Quebec and Ontario will marque events at Grand Prix de Trois-Rivieres and Honda Indy Toronto. For further information check out www.touringcar.ca for the latest championship news.

For more information on Toyo Tires, please visit www.toyotires.ca. Toyo manufactures and distributes a complete line of replacement tires for high performance cars, luxury vehicles, light trucks and SUVs as well as tires for commercial trucks, buses and off-road and construction applications.

Merrittville Speedway: May 23, 2009 Report and Results

Thorold, Ontario (May 24) Growing up as a kid, Rick Bellante sat in the stands cheering on his favorite Merrittville Speedway drivers – Davey Moore and Harvey Hainer Jr. among others.

Now that he sits in his race car every Saturday Night – the two wall of famers and the large crowd in the first pleasant weather of the young season would cheer him as the St. Catharines driver won his first ever Original Pizza Logs Sportsman Feature on CAA Niagara Night Saturday May 23rd.

“Dad brought me here as a kid,” prided Bellante who made quite an impression in his first Victory Lane celebration, “never did I think back then that I would be here.”

Another driver visiting Lucas Oil Victory Lane for the first time in his career as well was Evan Curtis in the Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder Division.

Two drivers ran away with their second career wins at the Thorold track – Chris Steele in the L. St. Amand Enterprises 358 Modified Division and third generation driver Brent Begolo in the borrowed Dolph McCready Hoosier Stock respectively.

Defending Champion Shawn Sliter rounded out the Feature Winners in making a late race move to win the Modern Corporation Open Wheel Lite Feature.

“Everyone was expecting some kind of race,” revealed (Event Planner and Track co-owner) Nancy Bicknell, “they got their race … but who said it had to involve cars?”

A great number of drivers and crew chiefs assembled on the front stretch for the event when (Merrittville co-announcer) Clint Geoffrey revealed the details just minutes after finding out himself, “OK guys … you’re here for a wheel barrow race… crew chiefs … you’re the wheel barrows!”

Hoosier Stock Driver Ken Sargent and his crew chief Ryan Billings were first to cross the line in the fun event.

With it being CAA Night, Niagara Members and staff enjoyed a great night of racing. Merrittville Speedway’s CAA Towing Crew – they had a busy night with several red flags and other on track incidents keeping the responders on their toes.

Second generation driver Robbie Rounce was first to lead the 25 lap Original Pizza Logs Sportsman Feature. A multi-car incident in turn 4 of lap 4 slowed his pace but after racing resumed, Rounce lost control himself but only briefly after jumping the cushion.

Rick Bellante was the new leader after Rounce’s miscue with two quick cautions before the half-way point slowing the action. Brad Rouse suffered a flat tire in the first and then slowed in turn one – setting up a lap 11 restart.

With Bellante out front – the race for runner-up spot was between brothers Cody and Tyler McPherson. Another caution right away slowed Bellante, the brothers and the field but on lap 15 with 10 to go – Bellante enjoyed a 10 car lead on Tyler McPherson.

In the closing laps, McPherson was able to close in on Bellante but to the checkered flag – nothing was going to stop the St. Catharines driver just starting his third season behind the wheel.

“This is really awesome …the car was so good tonight … I’ve got to thank the Knapps for all they do for me,” remarked an overwhelmed Rick Bellante in Victory Lane for the first time in a relatively short career.

Bellante and McPherson were followed by Chad Chevalier. Cody McPherson held on for fourth with Nick Cupolo fifth.

Original Pizza Logs Sportsman Heat Winners – First – Rick Bellante, Second – Jim Johnstone. Consolation – B.J. Willard.

Just after Greg Wilson took off to lead the Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder Feature – the second generation driver was joined in the lead pack by fellow drivers Chris Laskey and Evan Curtis. Just after Curtis took control of the runner-up spot – caution slowed the field.

Wilson again set the pace on the restart and with the race now just past the half-way point – Rob Goulding entered the top 3. Curtis was able to get by Wilson for the lead just as caution would again slow the field.

With Curtis out front Goulding was now being challenged by Aaron Wiley. Goulding soon caught Curtis – putting up quite a challenge. The two ran side by side until Goulding edged ahead at the start- finish line with Starter Doug Leonard’s white flag signaling one lap to go.

Curtis regained top spot along the back-stretch for the final time and at the checkers – earned his first career win by a car length over Goulding. Aaron Wiley was third while Rob Overholt and Trevor Goulding closed the top 5.

“The car’s been running strong all season,” remarked Curtis in Victory Lane, “it’s great to get the first one … it’s been a lot of fun … thanks to Dad and my uncle … everyone that helped out!”

Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder Heat Winners – First – Carey Gore, Second – Chris Laskey, Third – Greg Wilson. Consolation – A.J. Castelein.

The first time Chris Steele stood in 358 Modified Victory Lane – he’d won the rain-shortened 33 lap event.

“Tonight … it was my kind of track,” prided Chris Steele after checking out on the field for his second career win, “the car was so good.”

Steele – who started the 35 lap Feature in 14th spot, caught up to early leader Rob Pietz – taking control out of Turn 4 to complete lap 10.

Before Pietz was on the point Todd Kendrick was first to lead the event before coming together with Todd Gordon. Both cars became hooked and the race was stopped to separate the two. Pietz resumed control through a couple restarts before being challenged by Steele.

Just before half-way Steele’s pace was slowed but in the last half of the race – the former Karter turned Open Wheel Lite Driver and now 358 Modified Star opened up a straightaway lead on runner-up Scott Wood.

Tim Jones had his best showing of the season in taking third spot. Defending champion Chad Brachmann also had his best finish of the young season finishing fourth as did former champion Brian Stevens who rounded out the top 5.

L. St. Amand Enterprises 358 Modified Heat Winners – First – Mark D’Ilario, Second – Bill Bleich, Third – James Michael Friesen. Consolation – Dennis Giancola.

Kevin Kocarik was first to lead the Hoosier Stock Feature before Kevin Knapp took control out of Turn 4. Kocarik got out of shape but contact with another car kept the Fonthill driver’s car from spinning out.

Kocarik’s misfortune allowed Knapp to pull away to a good lead on the field. So good that his lead was almost a full straightaway.

Unfortunately it all came to a screeching halt just before the half-way point as Knapp’s car slowed along the back-stretch. Knapp later revealed that the gear broke off the distributor – continuing his early season woes.

Second year driver Mark Fawcett was the new leader on the restart before Brent Begolo took control. Fawcett now faced challenges from both Rob Murray and Alan Sleight for the runner-up spot.

With 5 laps to go – Murray took control of second but by that point in the race – Begolo had opened up a lead that was a full straightaway at the finish.

“I started deep in the field … with the tacky track – I knew I had to get to the front quick,” revealed Begolo, “I think I still had something for Kevin.”

Begolo’s second career win came in the borrowed Dolph McCready car, adding, “I blew the transmission in my car last week and it’s not together yet … thanks to Dolph for loaning me his car.”

Begolo, Murray and Sleight took the top three spots while Fawcett held on for fourth. Brad Sheehan rounded out the top 5.

Hoosier Stock Heat Winners – First – Tyler Anderson, Second – Kirk Wilson, Third – Kevin Knapp. Consolation – Brad Sheehan.

“It was a long race… I was surprised I won it,” remarked Shawn Sliter in Victory Lane for the first time of 2009, “the car wasn’t right … I had to work for this one.”

A couple of late race cautions found Rick Brubacher and defending point champion Sliter in a see saw battle for top spot.

Sliter took control on the last restart and went on to the win.

When the race began, Jordan Curran was first to lead before Brubacher took his first lead. An early caution saw Josh Sliter challenging Brubacher for top spot with Sliter taking control.

Sliter opened up a comfortable lead before losing it on lap 7 after losing control of his car in turn 4. Jamie Gilbert set the pace on the restart before Brubacher regained control. Two laps later Gilbert and Paul Klager got together in turn 4 and on the restart – Adam Murphy was the new leader.

The race was stopped quickly on the restart after a multi-car incident in turn 2 had Jason Corless flipping his car. Brubacher was again out front before another red flag delayed the return to action after Scott Billing rolled his car off turn 3. Both drivers were OK.

Brubacher again set the pace on the restart and with 5 laps to go – enjoyed a 5 lap lead on Sliter and Murphy before Sliter took control of top spot.

Jamie Gilbert rebounded to take third spot while Adam Leslie and Josh Sliter rounded out the top 5.

Modern Corporation Open Wheel Lite Heat Winners – First – Shawn Sliter, Second – Rick Brubacher, Third – Paul Klager. Consolation – Bob Bredin.

South Buxton Raceway May 23 Results

South Buxton Raceway

Following are the results from SM Freight.com Night at South Buxton Raceway on Saturday, May 23.

(Includes car number in brackets and driver’s hometown)

Ultimate Sandblasting & Coatings UMP Late Models
Feature (25 laps)
1. Andrew Reaume (88) Blenheim
2. Brett Reaume (77) Blenheim
3. Joe Field (4) Chatham
4. Dale Glassford (60) Thamesville
5. Jim Jones (34) Chatham
6. Mike Lewis (05) Wallaceburg
7. Gerald Giroux (75) Pain Court
8. Gregg Haskell (RH21) Chatham
9. Brad Authier (1A) Chatham
10. Kirk Hooker (38) Chatham
11. Jim Dale Jr. (00) Shrewsbury
12. Mark Glassford (90) Goderich
13. Tim Mackenzie (81) Chatham
DNS – Paul Rivait (11) Tilbury

First Heat
1. D. Glassford; 2. Lewis; 3. Authier; 4. Hooker; 5. B. Reaume; 6. Mackenzie; 7. Haskell
Second Heat
1. A. Reaume; 2. Field; 3. Giroux; 4. Dale Jr.; 5. M. Glassford; 6. Jones; 7. Rivait.
Dash
1. A. Reaume; 2. D. Glassford; 3. Field; 4. Authier; 5. M.Glassford; 6. Dale Jr.; Lewis.

Schinkel’s Gourmet Meats UMP Modifieds
Feature (20 laps)
1. Chris Vandewiele (0) Rutherford
2. Jim Dale Jr. (00) Shrewsbury
3. Brad McLeod (43) South Buxton
4. Clayton Smith (55) Woodslee
5. Jeff Daniels (20) Chatham
6. Mario Toniolo (66M) Belle River
7. Mike Demars (75) LaSalle
8. C.J. Field (C4) Chatham
9. Dan McIntyre (77) Windsor
DNS –Curtis Coulter (5) Leamington
DNS – Justin Coulter (5C) Leamington
DNS – Abe Unger (46) Leamington

First Heat
1. Smith; 2. McLeod; 3. Dale Jr.; 4. Demars; 5. Toniolo; 6. Field
Second Heat
1. Vandewiele; 2. J. Coulter; 3. Daniels; 4. McIntyre; 5. Unger; 6. C. Coulter

Sun Parlour Trailers Sport Stocks
Feature (20 laps)
1. Ken Morrison (28) Chatham
2. Louis Clements (3) Chatham
3. Randy McKinlay (14) Chatham
4. Doris Lajeunesse (38) Essex
5. Gerald Martin (43) Essex
6. Scott MacKenzie (28M) Maidstone
7. Tiffany Ellis (88) Kingsville
8. Gary Vyse (99) Wallaceburg
9. John Sylvestre (57) Windsor
10. Paul Gossmann (92) Wheatley
11. Hank Wielhouwer (24) Chatham
12. Eren Vanderiviere (29) Merlin
13. Eric Vanderiviere (93) Chatham
14. Steve Shaw Jr. (17S) Chatham
15. Todd Van Hal (06) Chatham
16. Luke Small (49) Windsor
17. Randy Casey (74) Windsor
DNS – Jim Ellis (32) Leamington

First Heat
1. Eren Vanderiviere; 2. Martin; 3. Morrison; 4. Gossmann; 5. T. Ellis; 6. McKinlay; 7. Sylvestre; 8. Small; 9. Shaw Jr.
Second Heat
1. MacKenzie; 2. Wielhouwer; 3. Van Hall; 4. Lajeunesse; 5. Clements; 6. Vyse; 7. Eric Vanderiviere; 8. J. Ellis; 9. Casey.

Four Seasons Driver Education Comp 4s
Feature (15 laps)
1. Nate McNally (8) Charing Cross
2. Rob Quick (18) Cottam
3. Denis DeSerrano (69) Cottam
4. Norm DeSerrano (96) Kingsville
5. Brandon Windsor (70) Leamington
6. Shawn Nelson (20) Windsor
7. Shawn Jones (27) Blenheim
8. Jerry Ramault (91) Chatham
9. Patrick Lajeunesse (98) Essex
10. Reid Fenton (47) Blenheim
11. Jamie St. Pierre (21) Chatham
12. Brett Hope (49) Blenheim
13. Brent Konecny (14) Chatham
14. Mechell Van Dyk (88) Blenheim
15. Murray Van Hooste (13) Blenheim
16. Clinton Van Dyk (44) Blenheim
17. Gerry Rivait Jr. (17) Tilbury

First Heat
1. D. DeSerrano; 2. Windsor; 3. N. DeSerrano; 4. St. Pierre; 5. Rivait Jr.; 6. M. VanDyk; 7. Lajeunesse; 8. Fenton; 9. Konecny
Second Heat
1. McNally; 2. Ramault; 3. Jones; 4. Quick; 5. Windsor; 6. C. Van Dyk; 7. Hope; 8. Van Hooste

Southern Ontario Sprints
Feature (20 laps)
1. Adam West (30) Ridgetown
2. Glenn Styres (0) Ohsweken
3. John Riegling (1A) Chatham
4. Justin Martin (7M) Shedden
5. Warren Mahoney (25) Lefroy
6. Bob Crawford (10) Sutton
7. Travis Cunningham (71) Grimsby
8. Dick Mahoney (79) Newmarket
9. Tyler Rand (84) Consecon
10. Ryan Hunsinger (77X) Brantford
11. Keith Dempster (5) Alton
12. John Watson (26) St. Thomas

First Heat
1. Martin; 2 Riegling; 3. Crawford;  4. Styres; 5. Cunningham;  6. D. Mahoney
Second Heat
1. Hunsinger;  2. Dempster;  3. West;  4. Watson;  5. W. Mahoney;  6. Rand.
Dash
1. D. Mahoney; 2. West; 3. Watson; 4. Cunningham
Points Leaders
1. Styres 334;  2. W. Mahoney 295;  3. Martin 292;  4. Hunsinger 291;  5. Crawford, West 284.

Next Race Night: Saturday, May 30, 7 p.m. (Gates open 4:30 p.m.)

For further information, please contact Mike Bennett at home Sunday and Monday (519-351-4765)
Mike Bennett // SBR Public Relations.

Mosport Speedway: Race Recap - May 23, 2009

MOSPORT, ON -  The “night before the 500” is always a big deal in Indianapolis. It’s almost as big as the long-awaited return of stock car racing action at Mosport Speedway. Having endured a one week delay in beginning the season due to inclement weather, the Speedway swung open the gates on May 23rd to welcome the Mosport faithful to another year of the Auto Workers Community Credit Union Saturday Night Racing presented by PartSource.

And what a debut it was!

Three divisions took to the half-mile oval on Saturday with the THORSONS EVT 6 Or Less class and the newly renamed Bob’s Towing Sportsman and Late Models lining up to do battle in search of championship glory.

The THORSONS EVT 6 Or Less

The 6 Or Less class was given the privilege of kicking off the 2009 season with past champions Ryan Oosterholt and Jeff Scott joining Kevin Hinds and Duane Jeffery in claiming victory in the eight lap preliminaries.

Fourteen freshly prepared 6 Or Less racers took the green flag to start the evening’s first feature event, with pole sitter Kevin Pickford in his #19 Dodge claiming the early race lead. A three-wide scramble for second place resulted in the race’s first yellow on lap two, as Trevor Coppins, Tiffany Taylor and Jeff Scott played pinball with each other in turn one, allowing the hard charging trio of Kevin Hinds, Duane Jeffery and Ryan Oosterholt to close onto Pickford’s back bumper.

Once again under green, Pickford maintained his precarious lead, holding off Hinds until the next caution period on lap nine when series’ rookie Tyler Betts (#86) lost a radiator in the first corner. Getting a strong launch on the ensuing green flag, Hinds swept high through the first two turns and powered past Pickford to take the lead. Stretching his advantage, Hinds put his #57 PS Auto Wreckers Grand Am on cruise control and took the checkered flag 10 car lengths ahead of the field.

“I was so pumped up, to take this win in the first race of the season is just awesome,” proclaimed an ecstatic Hinds.

Although Hinds ran out the laps in clean air, behind him frantic battles were raging throughout the field. Jeff Scott (#96) was able to wrestle the runner-up spot away from Pickford, leaving the pilot of the #19 Dodge to fend off a determined Oosterholt for the final podium position.

The Bob’s Towing Sportsman

Over the off-season, a reworking of the ThunderCar rulebook opened up the regulations to allow for an increased presence in this popular division. Now called the Sportsman class, the opening night grid reflected the desired variety of racing machinery.

Brad Stevenson returned to the Mosport racing family and celebrated with a victory in the evening’s debut heat race, while veteran Bill Northam claimed the second heat dash.

In the evening’s fifteen-lap feature race, former Limited Late Model competitor Terry Shaw moving up from his second row starting position to grab the early race lead. Bill Northam had taken the green flag from the tail end of the Sportsman field, but by the third circuit had closed in on second place runner, John Baker Jr. A back-and-forth battle between the two veterans ensued with Northam taking the long route around the second corner to move past Baker on lap five, as the Oshawa driver set his sights on the rapidly disappearing Shaw. Northam slowly reeled in the leader, and with two laps remaining, he tucked low heading into the first corner, hammered on the brakes and muscled his way by the #27 Ford of Shaw’s and into the race lead.

Putting his head down, Northam powered his #85 Five Points Mall Pontiac to the inaugural Sportsman class win, taking the checkered flag three car lengths in front of the dueling pair of Shaw and John Baker Jr.

“I bought this car five or six years ago,” explained Northam. “It was really struggling to be a Late Model, so I decided to go Sportsman racing. This win has been a long time coming.”

Brad Stevenson, still sorting out his new #77, was closing on the leading threesome, but was forced to settle for fourth place and ThunderCar regular Steve Mayhew (#14) rounded out the top five.

The Late Models

Defending series champion Dwight Brown has moved on to other challenges this year, leaving the 2009 Late Model championship wide open, and it looks like there will be no shortage of drivers lining up for a shot at the title.

Queensville, Ontario’s Danny Robinson made his return to Mosport Speedway and powered his immaculate white #2 to a heat victory, an accomplishment matched by 2008 division runner-up Dan Kimmerly.

Charging hard to the green flag, Terry Betts (#86) moved up four positions to grab the lead by the end of the first lap, with John Baker Jr. (#23), Robinson and Kimmerly slotting in directly behind the leader. On lap six (out of 20 scheduled), Robinson and Kimmerly tangled while battling for position, allowing John Baker Jr. to elbow his way onto the point.

Relegated to the back of the Late Model field for their involvement in an accident, Kimmerly and Robinson began an intense pursuit of the race leader. After only four tours of the Mosport half-mile, the two ran bumper-to-bumper and managed to clear the field, save for Baker’s #23 Freeman Motorsports Ford. Swapping positions four times over the final five laps, Kimmerly was able to outpower Robinson in a last lap dash to the line, and the two crossed the line virtually side-by-side, but still well in arrears of race winner Baker.  

“I got this ride a couple of years ago and haven’t put it in the Winner’s Circle nearly enough,” admitted the happy race winner. “I gave (car owner) Randy’s (Freeman) cheque book an awful kick this year, but we’ve got the stuff we need to win every night out.”

Series rookie Bryan Sudsbury (#29) fresh from his third place overall result in the 2008 6 Or Less championship, finished in fourth place with Terry Betts holding off a charging Andrew McFadden (#20) for a top five finish.

Coming up this week: The THORSONS EVT 6 or Less Cars, the Bob’s Towing Sportsman and the R.P. Oil Modifieds will be joined on track by the 5/8’ scale 1930s and 1940s Ontario Legends cars for their first of three visits to the Speedway. Mosport is also pleased to welcome Don Butt Auto Body Inc. for their night at the Speedway. Tickets are available at the gate. Adults $13, Students $8 and kids 12 and under are free with a paid adult admission. For more information call (905) 983-9141, email info@mosport.com or visit www.mosport.com.

KAWARTHA SPEEDWAY: Dan McHattie is determined to defend his title

By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications

After a brief three-year hiatus from a seat at the champion’s table, Dan McHattie entered the 2008 Kawartha Speedway season with a simple goal – to reclaim the crown that belongs to the high point driver in the track’s late model division.  The 32 year-old racer from Cavan, Ontario may have started the year slowly, but when all the marbles were counted he was back at the top of the heap.

While McHattie says he enjoys the competition and loves the thrill that comes with winning, he has never considered himself a point’s racer.  If he runs 3rd or 4th on a week-to-week basis, the driver of the #71 Uniglass Plus Ziebart/Sidey Auto Supply/Corp Construction/ Douglas Automotive/Barry McLennan Masonary/Foxon Alternator and Starter/Praxair Peterborough Chevrolet says everything else will take care of itself.

“Other drivers can tell you exactly where they are in the standings and even where they need to finish in particular race to move-up another spot,” said McHattie.  “That’s not my style of racing.  I get in the car, fasten the belts and drive.  It’s all about having fun and putting on a show for the fans.  If you think too much about it, it’ll consume you and that’s never a good thing.”

The 2008 late model champion says nothing about his program has changed from last year.  The car, crew and sponsors are exactly the same.  While the plan right now is to concentrate on running Friday nights at Kawartha, the mechanic at Kerr Industries in Oshawa says he might also look at doing a bit of travelling to other tracks.

“I like to race and if we don’t have to spend a lot of time putting the car back together or doing extra work on a regular basis, that might make visiting some other tracks easier,” according to McHattie.  “My focus is Kawartha.  That’s where my sponsors, family and friends expect to see me race, so we’ll do everything we can to make sure things come together there before we even think about going anywhere else.”

Kawartha Speedway’s 2009 season kicks-off Friday, May 29th.  The OSCAAR Outlaw Super Late Models will join a regular night of Late Model, Thunder Car and Mini Stock action.  For full details on this year’s schedule – including the American-Canadian Tour Summer Sizzler Sunday, July 12th and the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series season finale Saturday, September 26th – see www.kawarthaspeedway.com.

Photo attachment:  (Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications)
Dan McHattie turns a fast lap in his #71 Chevrolet at Kawartha Speedway.

Scotia Speedworld's Weekly Racing Series Opens Season this Saturday!

(Halifax, NS, May 26, 2009) Scotia Speedworld's Weekly Racing Series will finally hit the track this Saturday, May 30th, after a long winter break.  The special Saturday afternoon event will feature all six Weekly Racing Series divisions.  Gates open at 12:00 noon with the green flag set to drop at 2:00 pm.  Tickets are available at the gate on race day only. 

The Sojourn Signs Bandolero cars will be the first division to take the green flag this season.  Last year competition was strong in this young developmental division, which saw the tightest point battle out of all six Weekly Racing Series divisions.  Truro's Dylan Blenkhorn ultimately took home the title, with Brad Eddy and D.J Casey tied for second.  All three drivers are expected to compete again this season.

The Miller Tire Thunder and Lightning cars will follow the Bandolero's this Saturday at Scotia Speedworld.  Last year both divisions saw record car counts.  The Lightning division had twenty-six cars compete in '08, with the top seven competitors within 100-points of each other at seasons end.  The Thunder division had the highest car count of any division with 46 cars taking a green flag over fourteen race events.

The Hobby Stock division has a new Sponsor, Lockhart Truck Center, as well as some new competition in the form of ¼ ton trucks.  For the first time Scotia Speedworld is allowing competitors to build ¼ ton trucks to race in the Hobby Stock division in 2009.  Trucks must be built to the current Hobby Stock rules with the option of a four point roll cage. These trucks will evolve into a new division as the Hobby Stock class is phased out. The new Truck division for the future will see the trucks fully caged with V8 motors.

Next up on the season opener docket is the Legend division. The Legends are 5/8-scale replicas of the '34 and '37 Chevrolet and Ford (coupes and sedans) models that produce some fierce racing when the green flag is thrown.  The Legend division has quickly grown to be a crowd favourite.  Last year's Champion Ian Mollins traveled from Moncton each week to compete in this sporty division.

Finally, fans will be treated to the C&R Auto Supply Sportsman series.  The Sportsman are the premier division of the Weekly Racing Series.  Sportsman cars are full bodied stock cars built from the ground up and made for racing at racetracks throughout North America.  Last season Terry Roma of West Chezzetcook beat out Kennetcook's Harry Ross White for the Championship by just five points.  Both teams are expected to battle it out again for the prestigious 2009 title.

Admission for the Weekly Racing Series season opener is $12.00 for adults; $2.00 for youth aged 8-15; children 7 and under are admitted free. All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Pit admission is $15.00 and restricted to those 16 and older.  Tickets are available at the gate on race day. Visit www.ScotiaSpeedworld.ca for more information or call our event hotline at 902.873.2277.

About Scotia Speedworld: Scotia Speedworld (SSW) is a 3/10-mile asphalt oval racing facility.  SSW is the only venue in Nova Scotia to host a weekly racing series, which runs May through September and features six different classes of racecars. SSW also hosts special events, including Monster Jam and the CARQUEST Pro Stock Tour. SSW is located at Exit 6 on Highway 102, across from the Halifax Stanfield International Airport. For more information please click on www.ScotiaSpeedworld.ca or call our Event Hotline at (902) 873-2277 or our office at (902) 481-2514.

From Tara Foster

Ohsweken Speedway: Cair Croft Hotel brings stars of ESS to Ohsweken on Friday

By Tommy Goudge (May 26, 2009) – The first special event of the 2009 Ohsweken Speedway season takes the green flag this weekend, when the Best Western Cairn Croft Hotel presents round three of Friday Night Thunder.  The cars and stars of the Empire Super Sprints tour will be on hand Friday night to do battle with Ohsweken’s weekly Corr/Pak Merchandising Sprint Car contingent, while the ESSO Thunder Stocks, ESSO Mini Stocks, and Bombers will also join in on the fun!

Both the ESS tour and Ohsweken’s weekly competitors have competed in two events so far this season.  Weekly winners at Ohsweken were Tom Huppunen and Dain Naida, while Doug Emery and Jessica Zemken claimed ESS victories at Fonda and Utica-Rome respectively last weekend.  Those four and many more are expected this Friday night, including ESS stars like two-time champion Steve Poirier, Lance Yonge, Chuck Hebing, and Justin Barger.  Poirier is also the defending winner of the Empire Super Sprints tour event at Ohsweken, as he came from fourteenth on the grid to win on June 20, 2008. 

Corr/Pak drivers such as ’08 Ohsweken track champ Keith Dempster, Ryan Hunsinger, Kevin Job, Glenn Styres, and Brad Malloy are expected to defend their home turf against the invading ESS drivers.  Another driver who could make an appearance on Friday is Dan Kaszubinski, who dominated ESS events at Ohsweken in 2004 and 2005.  After partial schedules in each of the past two seasons, Kaszubinski is back in the saddle on a regular basis this year and competed in both ESS events last weekend.

The ESSO Thunder Stocks get back to action on Friday night after a scintillating feature last week.  With the checkered flag in sight, Jamie Cox was able to power his way to victory around week one winner Shayne Pierce.  Pierce did hold onto the runner-up spot and holds the points lead by seventeen markers over Jeremy Bean, who has had a strong start to his ’09 season.  Glen Leinen, Lee Winger, and Cox round out the current top five in the championship standings heading into this Friday’s event.  Twenty-four competitiors signed in for Thunder Stocks action on Friday night, and as many and more are expected each night throughout the season.

The ESSO Mini Stocks competitors are all chasing young Mitchell Brown these days.  The third-generation driver from Brantford has won both of the first two rounds of the Mini Stocks season, but with success comes increased difficulty, as the frequent winners will start deeper in the pack with each passing week.  Abel Castelein and Kevin Hilborn have both looked strong early on this season, and will be looking to stop Mitch’s streak on Friday night.  Those two drivers are currently second and third in points, while Mike Evers and Chase Hess round out the top five.

In Bomber action, a new winner visited victory lane last week as Jesse McDonald dominated the feature event.  It is opening night winner Karl Sault who leads the points, however, followed by Dale Cooke, Kacey Huffman, McDonald, and Brad Hill.

Advanced reserved seat tickets for the World of Outlaws Late Models June 18 featuring guest star Ken Schrader, World of Outlaws Sprint Cars July 28 and 29, and Canadian Sprint Car Nationals September 18 and 19 are on sale now. Please visit www.OhswekenSpeedway and call 1-888-720-RACE to order yours today! Tickets for all 2009 Ohsweken Speedway World of Outlaws events will also be on sale at the track THIS FRIDAY ONLY!

Ohsweken Speedway's Friday Night Thunder returns this Friday, May 29 when the Best Western Cairn Croft Hotel presents the Empire Super Sprints, ESSO Thunder Stocks, ESSO Mini-Stocks, and Bombers. Friday Night Thunder at Ohsweken offers an affordable, fast-paced, and exciting evening of family entertainment just a short drive away from most Mid-Western Ontario locations. Adult general admission for this special event is just $15, while Seniors and Students are $8, and Kids age 12 and under are FREE! Please visit www.OhswekenSpeedway.com for more information. Spectator gates open @ 6:00p.m., with the first race taking the green flag at 7:45p.m. this Friday, May 29!

INDYCAR: May 26, 2009 - Paul Tracy to race for Foyt at Milwaukee

A.J. Foyt has hired veteran driver Paul Tracy to replace injured Vitor Meira in the No. 14 ABC Supply Co. car in the May 31 ABC Supply/A.J. Foyt 225 at The Milwaukee Mile.

"I'm excited to get an opportunity to drive albeit as a fill-in for Vitor as I know it's a short-term thing," said Tracy, who has won 31 Indy car races. "When I started my career (1991), I competed against A.J. He was one of my idols growing up. I haven't told too many people this, but he was one of the guys I modeled myself after. I'm a little rough around the edges like him, and I say what I feel, and that's one of the things I've always admired about him."

Tracy has made 14 starts at The Milwaukee Mile, recording victories in 1995, 1999, 2002 and 2005. Foyt also won four times as a driver at The Mile - in 1962, 1964, 1975 and 1979.

"Paul Tracy is a hard charger and our type of driver, much like Vitor," Foyt said. "I believe we can put the right equipment under Paul, and we've both had success there, so I think we can put our heads together and have a good race. It's a very important race for us because it's sponsored by our team sponsor ABC Supply, which is based in Wisconsin. Milwaukee is their home track, and it is the AJ Foyt 225."

Meira suffered a lower back injury in the closing laps of the Indianapolis 500 and has been treated at Methodist Hospital since May 24. Dr. Michael Olinger, medical director for the Indy Racing League, evaluated Meira again on May 26 and expects Meira to be released from the hospital on May 27. Meira will meet with Dr. Terry Trammell on May 29 and expects to receive clearance to return to his home in Florida. 

From John Griffin, Indy Racing League

Industry News: HANS serves patent infringement suit against rival

HANS SERVES PATENT INFRINGEMENT SUIT AGAINST DEFNDER

Atlanta, Georgia (May 26, 2009) - HANS Performance Products, manufacturers of the multiple award winning HANS Device, has served a patent infringement suit against makers of the defNder G70, Innovative Safety Technology, LLC.

In the complaint, which was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, HANS asserts that IST’s defNder G70 product infringes U.S. Patent No. 6,009,566.  HANS is seeking an injunction against the further sale of the defNder G70 product and damages for its infringing sales.

“Serving the suit is an important step we must take to protect our HANS Device technology,” said, HANS’ Chief Executive Officer, Mark Stiles.  “We will not sit idly by and let anyone steal our patented technology.  It is disappointing that, in this case, we have to take legal action to defend our hard-earned rights.”

The HANS Device is a safety product worn by racecar drivers to help protect against injuries of the type that killed stock car racing legend Dale Earnhardt in 2001.  Every time they race, over 75,000 users pay tribute to the real world performance that a HANS Device offers.  Innovative class-leading design is just one reason the HANS Device is the most tried, tested and trusted head and neck restraint worldwide.

HANS is represented by the law firm Ballard Spahr Andrews & Ingersoll, LLP.

Details and information about HANS Performance Products are available at www.hansdevice.com or by calling 1-888-HANS-999 or 770-457-1046. HANS, the Safetyform shape and their derivative styles are trademarks of HANS Performance Products    

Mark's Work Wearhouse - Save When You Spend Jumpstart Day

Advertiser of the Day - HMS Motorsport

Sunset Speedway Race Results from May 23/09

Thanks to Spencer Lewis for the report and to Al McLean for sending them along.
Going to try to make it to Sunset on Saturday. Spoke to Mark Dilley and Linda Jones on the weekend and they're very excited about the future of the speedway. (GregM)

***

SUNSET SPEEDWAY: Butler Makes It A Deuce; Walters Bounces Back On Week 2

STROUD, ON (MAY 23, 2009) - When it comes to Mini Stock racing at Sunset Speedway, New Lowell, ON driver Doug Butler has been showing fans for 2 seasons exactly how good he is. However, on Saturday night, the youngster had a chance to show he could also be lucky when need be.

The majority of the 20-lap feature saw a highlight of the night battle between pole sitter Rob Krystal (No. 99 Taurus Property Management/Dan's Scrap Honda) and brother Terry Clodd (No. 34 Barrie Tire Shaving/Bourque Transmission Honda).

For what seemed like an eternity, Krystal kept his Civic glued to the bottom line of the race track, with firm control over the lead. Glued to his bumper was Clodd, who made every effort to search for a chink in the armour of the 2008 Four Fun Rookie of the Year.

The turning point of the race came with 3 laps to go. With Clodd's sense of urgency rising, the Holland Landing, ON veteran dive-bombed to the inside of Krystal in an attempt to capture the lead. Unfortunately for Clodd, Krystal anticipated such a move and held his ground to perfection, resulting in Clodd making contact with the leader and suffering a blown right front tire.

And the drama didn't stop there. During the resulting caution period, the call was made to place Krystal at the back of the pack as an involved car, drawing a chorus of boos from the stands. With the combination of an unfortunate incident and a controversial ruling taking out the top-2 contenders, the lead was handed over to Week 1 winner, Doug Butler.

Butler (No. 10 Jeff's Towing/South Barrie Collision Nissan) would cruise to victory unchallenged followed by Bryan Daluz, Warren Paxton, Brian Love and Pookie Brown.

"This is terrific winning two weeks in a row" smirked the third year pilot "I saw a lot of beating and banging going on in front of me, and I really tried hard just to stay out of it and keep it clean. That's what this sport is all about, racing hard and staying clean. We haven't really changed anything from week 1, so hopefully we can come back out next Saturday and make it three in a row. I just want to thank my family and my crew, and especially all the fans that came out to watch us race."

The Thunder Car 30-lap feature witnessed a homecoming 2 weeks in the making. River Drive Park, ON's Flyin' Frank Davey made his return to Sunset Speedway on opening night and though quick, was relegated to the runner-up position by the uber-fast Darryl St. Onge. However, Davey entered Week 2 intent on securing his first "W" of the young
2009 season.

Though a trip to victory lane would be easier said than done, as Davey had to contend with two of the quickest cars on the property in the form of Mark Adams (No. 51 Rankin's Auto/Oakville Trailers Chevrolet) and Brad Holden (No. 97 Country Homes/Holden Electric Ltd Chevrolet).

Adams would be the first to lead, taking the top spot from the pole position, with Holden nipping at his heels. The Midland, ON veteran would work Adams over, eventually finding his way through on the inside.

As Holden made his move, so too did Davey (No. 49 Barney's Auto Electric/M&Y Chiropractic Chevrolet), pulling into second spot a half-car length behind Holden's Lumina. Lap after lap, Davey would remain in Holden's rear-view, applying pressure with hopes of goading Holden into over-driving his car.

Shortly past the half-way mark, Holden would make his first and only mistake of the night. As the cars entered turn-3, Davey made light contact with the rear-end of the race leader; As Holden shot up the racetrack, both Davey and Adams found their way by on the inside, forcing the one-time leader back to third.

Adams would at times appear to be strong enough to challenge for the lead, though Davey's dominance of Sunset's middle groove would prove to be too much. Davey would finish ahead of Adams, Holden, Charlie Smith and Stan Coe.

"Man this feels great!" exclaimed Davey in victory lane "It's real nice to come back to Sunset. I've got a lot of friends and fans here.
You'll see me here full time in 2009". When asked about his mid-race pass for the lead, Davey explained it was nothing more than a veteran move "Heading into the corner there, I just gave [Holden] a slight touch and got by. Sorry Brad" chuckled Davey in closing.

May 23 also saw Sunset play host to the Ontario Pro Challenge Series for their second scheduled of 2009. The Series' night started out with a first, as Malcolm McMaster notched his first career win during the first round of heat races.

Not to be out-done, Barrie, ON's Tim Forbes was also in the hunt for a career first in the form of a feature win. Forbes has gained pro-challenge experience at tracks from Ontario to Florida to Indiana and back, though was looking forward to bringing home his first victory in his backyard.

Forbes started near the front and wasted little time in disposing of early race leader Kyle Batty. Forbes was followed to the front defending champion Dennis Thompson, who cut through the field from his 7th place starting position.

Though the race was slowed mid-way by a pair of cautions, Forbes'
momentum was never disrupted and though Thompson stayed close to his bumper, the Barrie, ON driver remained unflappable.

Forbes crossed the line followed by Thompson, Josh Nicholson, Tim Norris and Malcolm McMaster.

"It's nice to win so close to home" remarked Forbes "those cautions didn't affect my strategy, I just wanted to make sure I got off to a strong restart. I knew Dennis [Thompson] was there, and I was just trying to stay smooth, we had a little problem with the lapped traffic, but we made it out alright".

The night was closed out by the Limited Late Models and their 30-lap main event. Only one week after nearly destroying his primary Sunset car in a practice session wreck, Stompin' Tom Walters (No. 47 G&D Wholesale Tires Chevrolet) returned with a second car and the intention of commencing his 2009 schedule properly.

The second car Walters brought, was actually the car modified to ACT Late Model specs for full-time Friday night competition at Kawartha Speedway. However, due to the damage suffered by Walters' full-time Sunset ride, his crew had no other option but to bring the Kawartha Speedway car back to its Limited Late Model setup.

Walters started the feature on the outside of row number 1, alongside his long-time rival and fellow ageless veteran, "Quick" Vic Parsons (No. 1 Jackson's Toyota Toyota). Though Parsons had proven to be quick all night, Walters led the way into turn 1 on the opening lap, eventually opening up an almost half-straightaway long lead.

The 25-time champion would feel some late race pressure in the form of hard-charger Tony Tiemersma, though it would prove to be a case of 'too little, too late'. The Top 5 at the line were Walters, Tiemersma, Parsons, Jason 'Bam Bam' Witty and Darin Malcolm.

Stompin' Tom led all 30 laps en route to his first victory of the season, a stark change from his experience only 7 days earlier. "We're definitely very happy with this. Especially after last week" said Walters "We're a little banged up, and it's going to take quite a few more [feature wins] to pay for last week" admitted the veteran with a chuckle. "The bottom line on this race track was working great for me tonight. I just stuck to the bottom and it didn't look as though these other guys could touch me. We even ran the heat races on old tires, I can't tell you how happy I am with this car. I just want to take the time to thank an old sponsor of mine, Nigel Squires is in the stands tonight. He's helped me get to where I am today". Walters would go on to thank Mike McColl of McColl Racing Enterprises for his efforts in repairing Walters' primary Sunset ride after the incident on opening night.

LEFTOVERS

-       After a strong start to his rookie season, Thunder Car driver Mike "The Strut" Weeda was unable to answer the call for the feature, after experiencing a blown motor in qualifying.

-       Former Four Fun and Mini Stock pilot Ethan Courneyea made his Thunder Car debut on Saturday. The Innisfil, ON youngster is hoping to contender for Rookie of the Year honors in 2009.

-       "Hollywood" Matt Henderson assured fans on Saturday night that Epic Motorsports' first ever Outlaw Mini Stock is completed and will be ready to debut when the class makes its return on June 6th.

-       Other news out of the Epic Motorsports camp has 2008 Sunset Speedway Mini Stock champion, Smokin' Joe Ireton returning to active competition in 2 weeks. Ireton has decided to run a part-time schedule in 2009, after a 2008 season that saw him make an incredible late-season charge that culminated in his first ever championship.

Zemken Uses Last Lap Pass to Win Lucas Oil ESS Main at Utica-Rome

By MIKE MALLETT

VERON, N.Y. – Jessica Zemken had to overcome a lot of disappointment on Saturday night after her car lost brakes prior to the start of the A-Main at Fonda Speedway.  She wanted to win one for her hometown fans.

On Sunday night, many of those same fans rose to their feet as Zemken made a daring three-wide pass to take the lead for the first time and then as she drove to the bottom of turn three to retake the lead in slower traffic on final lap to win her second career Lucas Oil Empire Super Sprint SUNY Canton Series 25-lap A-Main.

“We had a really bad night last night,” said Zemken.  “We really wanted that one because Fonda (Speedway) is our home track.   We didn’t even get to start the race last night and that was disappointing, but to come out here tonight and win at a track we’ve struggled a little bit at is awesome.”

The main-event got underway with a two lap duel by front row starters Cory Sparks and Dan Kaszubinski.  This was won by Kaszubinski on the second circuit.

Kaszubinski looked strong for the first nine laps but misfortune struck when he had the drive line let go as he came off of turn four.  This caused him to slow and it brought out the caution on lap nine as he left pieces on the track in turn four.  This handed the lead to Chuck Hebing.24

Once Hebing assumed command of the feature, he was never able to get away from the field as Lance Yonge and Zemken were working their way up through the field from their middle of the pack starting positions.

Hebing was the leader when the final caution of the event came out on lap 15.  Jeff VanDusen slid off the top of turn four in his Guy Howie owned ride.  This set up a nose to tail restart with Yonge and Zemken tight to the back of Hebing’s No. 45.

At the green, Yonge drove under Hebing in turn one but he was unable to complete the pass for the lead which allowed Zemken to tuck under him on the bottom of the turn two to set up a three car race for the lead.

The trio continued to battle as Hebing continued to run the high side of the speedway with Yonge in the middle and Zemken never taking her Maxim off the bottom of the big half-mile. 

This paid off for her as on lap 18 she went three wide with Hebing and Yonge to drive by both of them on the bottom of turns one and two.

“I noticed those guys getting looser and looser on the top,” said Zemken.  “I knew I had to try something.  I had run the top for a couple of laps but the car didn’t feel very good up there.  I knew there would be some bite down on the bottom and when I moved down there it worked.”

Zemken pulled away from both Hebing and Yonge but a new challenger emerged as Mike Stelter’s No. 36 began to come to the front. 

Zemken led until lap 23 when she encountered slower traffic running her line on the bottom allowing Stelter to drive by her on the outside of turn two for the lead. 

“When Stelter got by me I knew that I had to be patient,” commented Zemken.  “He was good from the middle to the top and I was only good on the bottom.  I knew I had to stay on the bottom or I was going to end up buzzing my tires and losing ground to him (Stelter).”

Although she lost the lead she continued to stay on the bottom after she cleared the slower car.  She tracked down Stelter and on the final lap in the final turn she stuck her car underneath Stelter as they raced into turn three.  She squeezed her way by both Stelter and a slower car to earn her the win and the $2,000 top prize.

“When we got to traffic I knew it was going to be a little bit rough on the bottom,” commented Zemken.  “I didn’t want to get off the bottom at all because I knew that was I had to be.  I thought I was going to be in a wreck (turn three) when I got into the lapped car on the last lap.  I had to go for it so I drove it in there and it stuck.” 

Stelter ended up getting together with the slower car and the contact caused him to spin around forcing the race to end under the yellow and checkered flags.  The benefactor of this was Tim Kelly, of Rock Stream, N.Y.  Kelly earned his way into the A-Main after winning the B-Main event.  As a result of running that extra 10-lap event, the crew worked on his Avenger chassis and got it to near perfection as he was able to finish second behind Zemken.

“It actually helped us by running the B-Main,” said Kelly.  “We got to change the car around a little bit and it really made a big difference in the end.”

Kelly was running in third when Zemken and Stelter nearly came together in turn three causing some concern that he may be collected in an accident.

“I wasn’t sure what was going to happen,” stated Kelly.  “I was hoping Mike (Stelter) wasn’t going to keep spinning.”

Yonge chased Hebing for much of the race but he was unable to get by him for the lead in the middle of the corner which allowed Zemken to get by on the bottom.  As a result of Stelter’s misfortune on the final lap, he ended up crossing the line third.

“It kind of hurt me battling with Chuck (Hebing) because I burned my tires up a little bit,” stated Yonge.  “Then Jessica (Zemken) snuck under both of us.  I’m real happy though that we ended up third.”

Steve Poirier started eighth on the field and patiently worked his way forward with his Eagle mount to earn his best finish of the season as he came home fourth.  Like Kelly, Tommy Wickham came through the B-Main to earn a fifth place finish.

ESS/Utica-Rome Notes: A solid field of 34 sprints played host to a packed house as a part of Memorial Day Weekend…Making first ever ESS starts were Joe August and Matt Tanner…First starts for ’09 were Daniel Lampron, Bubby Kerrick and Jeff Frasier…Lee Ladouceur had engine troubles after warm-ups and was scratched for the rest of the night…ESS will make two more stops to Gene Cole’s half-mile on July 5th and Sept. 6th, also part of the SUNY Canton Series…Next weekend is the first two events of the Northwood 2 Construction/LaSalle Motorsports Canadian Sprint Car Series with stops at Ohsweken and Merrittville.

SUNY Canton Series A-Main - Jessica Zemken ($2,000), Tim Kelly, Lance Yonge, Steve Poirier, Tommy Wickham, Chuck Hebing, Cory Sparks, Doug Emery, Justin Barger, Bubby Kerrick, Brandon Warner, George Suprick, Michael Parent, Anthony Cain, Rick Wilson, Jeff VanDusen, Mike Stelter, Daniel Lampron, Jeff Cook, Brian McDonald, Warren Alexson, Jason Barney, Gordy Button, Dan Kaszubinski.

Lap Leaders - Sparks 1, Kaszubinski 2-9, Hebing 10-17, Zemken 17-22, Stelter 23,24, Zemken 25.

Car Mate Custom Built Trailers Heat 1 - Mike Stelter, Cory Sparks, Doug Emery, Jeff VanDusen, Justin Barger, George Suprick.

Car Mate Custom Built Trailers Heat 2 - Chuck Hebing. Michael Parent, Jessica Zemken, Gordy Button, Anthony Cain, Warren Alexson.

Car Mate Custom Built Trailers Heat 3 - Dan Kaszubinski, Jason Barney, Steve Poirier, Lance Yonge, Bubby Kerrick, Brandon Warner.

Walton's Farm and Auto Repair/Cobra Motorhomes Dash - Mike Stelter

KSE Racing Products B-Main - Tim Kelly, Daniel Lampron, Brian McDonald, Tommy Wickham.

Added Starters - Jeff Cook, Rick Wilson.

Did Not Qualify - Matt Demitraszek, Jeff Frasier, Matt Tanner, Lee Ladouceur, Andy Noto, Joe August, Mark Zemcik, Jared Fink, James Hanson, Jim Porter.

Cash Sponsors:
SUNY Canton A-Main – Zemken $400
Ohsweken Speedway Winner’s Bonus – Zemken $100
Les Constructions Ultra Halfway – Hebing $100
WestFront Construction Hard Charger – Kelly (17 pos.) $50
Cook’s Contracting Bridesmaid Bonus – Kelly $50
Car Mate Custom Built Trailers – Stelter, Hebing, Kaszubinski $25

ASA Late Models: Chris Eggleston Wins Grundy

By: Eric Huenefeld

MORRIS, IL - Winning your first ASA Late Model Series feature is quite the accomplishment. Winning you first ASA Late Model Series feature while driving the dominant car, always feels good. And winning your first ASA Late Model Series feature, while having the best car as well as out running a veteran at his home track, well that’s just icing on the cake.

Erie, Colorado driver Chris Eggleston was dominant Sunday night in Chicagoland, starting from the pole after the series mandatory invert put the eighth fastest qualifier in the front. Eggleston would storm away from the field and hold off challenges in the last 25 laps from Eddie Hoffman to take the 11th Annual George Appleton Memorial 125 at the Grundy County Speedway.

“…The first thing I wanna know is, how am I gonna get this trophy back to Colorado?,” a very excited and gracious Eggleston stated of the five-foot tall George Appleton Memorial Traveling Trophy.

In his ASALMS North rookie season in 2008, Eggleston finished 10th in series points and 5th in a very tough Rookie of the Year race. After racing with on his own last year, the 20 year old Eggleston received the opportunity of a lifetime this winter, signing on with 5K Motorsports out of West Bend, Wisconsin. The change for Eggleston has obviously netted him some rewards.

“I just wanna thank these guys at 5K Motorsports… its all them,” the winner said. ‘They definitely gave me a great piece today. I think we hit on something last weekend at Milwaukee I think we definitely found some speed. They gave me the car to drive, all I had to do was go in circles for 125 laps and here we are!’

Eggleston made it sound so simple, but as usual, it was much harder than a snap of the fingers to get to the checkered flag. Eight yellow flag periods marred the fast-paced racing action on the North Central Illinois bullring, with several hiccups coming in the races early stages. Eggleston would have to initially deal with outside pole sitter Griffin McGrath for a few laps on his bumper before he could pull out to a nice lead. As Eggleston pulled away, Hoffman, a four-time Appleton winner, worked over the young Iowan McGrath, and moved into second spot.

As the race moved towards lap 40, the race would go into a long stretch of green flag racing. The 48 lap run gave Eggleston a chance to show his muscle, as he would power his Chevrolet ahead of Hoffman by over a straightaway late in the run. A couple more yellow periods would tighten the field up and put Hoffman on Eggleston’s back bumper. Hoffman would pounce on each restart, but lose ground to Eggleston every time.
Eggleston knew his hands were full with Hoffman in the rearview.

“When I heard the spotter said ‘yea you got the 8 car behind you,’ I was like ‘Wait a minute! This is his home track and I’m from Colorado, what the heck am I doing here?!,’ the winner exclaimed. ‘I just tried to run my line, stay on the bottom and tried not to make a hole where he could under us and stayed smooth from there.

Hoffman said “I probably could of gotten under him and forced the issue a little bit, but I didn’t want to do it that way tonight. Chris was running me hard and he was fast all night, and I didn’t want to have it come down to that sort of thing tonight. We’ll take our second place.”

Behind Eggleston and Hoffman, Orland Park, Illinois driver Anthony Danta would crack the podium once again, garnering a third place run. Danta also took third at the Illiana Derby back in May at his home track, the Illiana Motor Speedway.

Eighteen year-old Jordan Sims, the only Canadian in the starting field, had his best ever run with the ASA Late Model Series Sunday night. Sims fought hard and raced his way through the field from ninth to fourth in the 125 lap main event. Silvis, Illinois driver Joey King rounded out the top 5 with solid run, just outrunning Rookie of the Year point leader Josh Nelms for the fifth spot.

Danta was the ‘Fastest Man in Town’ in ARP Bodies Time Trials held earlier in the evening, with a lap 15.223 around the 1/3 mile oval. It was the 22 year old’s second top timer award of the year with the ASA Late Model Series North Division.

Unofficial Results
11th Annual George Appleton Memorial ‘125’
Grundy County Speedway
5/24/09

Position Number Driver Laps Completed
1. #22 Chris Eggleston (125)
2. #8 Eddie Hoffman (125)
3. #51 Anthony Danta (125)
4. #99 Jordon Sims (125)
5. #29 Joey King (125)
6. #0 Josh Nelms (125)
7. #34 Troy Hintzche (125)
8. #90 Becca Kasten (125)
9. #89 Matt Byrne (125)
10. #6 Dave Gentile Jr. (125)
11. #48 Seth Moody (125)
12. #55 Mason Mitchell (124)
13. #64 Griffin McGrath (118)
14. #31 Brent Brevak (109)
15. #37 Jordan Dahlke (105)
16. #72 Andy Marchiniak (51)
17. #5 Brett Sontag (34)
18. #52 Ricky Baker (15)
19. #23 Chris Koslek (12)
20. #96 John Nutley (9)
21. #87 Jesse Saunders (9)
22. #58 Matt Minnifield (8)
23. #63 Brad Plunkett (0)

Leaders: Eggleston (pole-125)

Cautions: 8

The ASA Late Model Series is its own entity and not endorsed, sponsored or affiliated in any way with ASA Racing, American Speed Association or the ASA Member Track Program. The ASA Late Model Series is owned and operated by Ron and Sandy Varney

For more information on the ASA Late Model Series and teams, visit our websites at www.asalatemodels.com, www.asalatemodelsnorth.com or www.asalatemodelssouth.com

KARTING: Kawartha Durham Kart Club and Toronto Kart Club hit the track together

3S Go-karts, Sutton will be the venue for Kawartha Durham Kart Club Race #2 and Toronto Kart Club Race #3 on Saturday, May 30. These two great clubs will get together for a day of competitive kart racing as young and not-so-young go wheel to wheel on the technical 3S Go-karts track.

Classes for the day include Novice, Junior Light and Heavy, Senior Light, Medium and Heavy, Honda Masters, Junior and Senior TAG and the always challenging Subaru Series.

Registration begins at 7:00 and on-track activities begin at 9:00. As always, visitors are very welcome to partake in what should be a great day of racing, rivalry and camaraderie. Spec fuel station for all 4-stroke classes is the Petro Canada in Baldwin, just south of Sutton on Highway 48.

Toronto Kart Club has been around since the early 1990’s and has been the training ground for such Canadian racing greats as Paul Tracy, Scott Goodyear and Ron Fellows to name a few. TKC strives to offer it’s members as much variety and challenge as possible while promoting the sport of karting as an enjoyable form of individual and/or family recreation. The TKC schedule runs from April to the end of October with a street race at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga in August and is the host club for the Subaru Canada Karting Series.

The Kawartha Durham Kart Club calls Kawartha Downs and Speedway their home. Located in Fraserville, Ontario (south west of Peterborough), this independent club - created, organized and run by volunteers, has always been focused on providing a fun, safe and family oriented yet highly competitive environment for hobbyists and budding race stars alike. In previous years, the club has hosted many club, regional, national and international events including the Sunoco Ron Fellows, the Canadian Nationals and a North American Karting Championship Race in 1998 as established with CIK-FIA.

For more information about the upcoming races or for information about the clubs, visit their websites: www.kawarthadurhamkartclub.com and www.torontokartclub.com.

From Kawartha Durham Kart Club Executive

St. Thomas Dragway - Results May 23-24, 2009

St. Thomas Dragway
Sparta, Ontario, Canada

Saturday, May 23, 2009
Bracket Points Race # 4

Canada Trailers TOP
1 - Drew Buchner, Aylmer - 85 Camaro 454 - 6.685 (6.70)(R.T.-.042) at 102.51
2 - Andy Cole, St. Thomas - 29 Model A 330 - 7.784 (7.80)(R.T.-.004) at 88.56

WISECO MOD
1 - Mike Henderson, Aylmer - 78 Malibu 383 - 11.308 (11.32)(R.T.-.038) at 115.92
2 - Hugh MacGinnis, Dutton - 87 Daytona 360 - 14.389 (10.76)(R.T.-.046 red) at 62.76

Chandler Technology Street
1 - Howard Runhart, Mossley - 83 Ranger 302 - 13.094 (13.00)(R.T.-.066) at 100.42
2 - Eric Brennan, Hamilton - 92 Beretta 3.1 L - 14.401 (14.40)(R.T.-.192) at 95.15

Borhog Power Sports Bike/Sled
1 - Shane Yeoman, St. Thomas - 77 Kawasaki 1393 - 9.651 (9.64)(R.T.-.117) at 132.68
2 - Brad Churchill, St. Thomas - 03 Kawasaki 1200 - 9.921 (9.95)(R.T.-.016 red) at 132.68

Nothers Awards Junior Dragster
1 - Cole Symon, Springfield - 04 KCS Briggs - 8.356 (7.94)(R.T.-.075) at 81.21
2 - Eric Marsh, London - 04 KCS Briggs - broke before staging Closest to the Dial
1 - Kevin Bushey, Val Caron - 6.687 (6.68) at 101.58

Sparta, Ontario, Canada - St. Thomas Dragway
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Bracket Points Race # 5

Canada Trailers TOP
1 - Andy Cole, St. Thomas - 29 Model A 330 - 7.713 (7.71)(R.T.-.004) at 87.59
2 - Drew Buchner, Aylmer - 85 Camaro 454 - 6.702 (6.71)(R.T.-.024) at 102.81 WISECO MOD
1 - Rob Holden, Parkhill - 90 S10 358 - 10.190 (10.19)(R.T.-.0002) at 126.01
2 - Jeff Barnes, Jr., Strathroy - 67 Camaro 383 - 10.960 (10.98)(R.T.-.053) at 122.01

Chandler Technology Street
1 - Howard Runhart, Mossley - 83 Ranger 302 - 13.007 (12.95)(R.T.-.083) at 104.89
2 - Kevin Ward, Leamington - 07 Dakota V6 - 18.119 (18.15)(R.T.-.153) at 73.63

Borhog Power Sports Bike/Sled
1 - Shane Yeoman, St. Thomas - 77 Kawasaki 1393 - 9.810 (9.64)(R.T.-.106) at 110.89
2 - Brad Churchill, St. Thomas - 03 Kawasaki 1200 - 10.195 (9.87)(R.T.-.063) at 136.01

Nothers Awards Junior Dragster
1 - Sam Nafziger, Milverton - 03 KCS Briggs - 9.730 (9.71)(R.T.-.104) at 67.17
2 - Eric Marsh, London - 04 KCS Briggs - 8.122 (8.05)(R.T.-.130) at 80.33 Closest to the Dial
1 - Eric Brennan, Hamilton - 92 Beretta 3.1 L - 14.368 (14.36) at 96.20

NASCAR Canadian Tire Series from St-Eustache on TSN

F2000: Canadian Audette Goes Flag-to-Flag at Lime Rock

Series Media Contact: Monty Mathisen - 914 419 1070 - f2000@mathisenmedia.com
       
Lakeville, CT Canadian Remy Audette led all 32 laps from pole winning round four of the F2000 Championship Season at Lime Rock Park. Audette, driving the #21 Dimension Doors/Novatech Audette Racing entry broke the standing track record during morning qualifying and simply took off on the field from the drop of the green. It was Audette's first F2000 win.

I took off from the drop of the green, said Audette, who extends his championship points lead. Mentally it was a really challenging race because there were no yellow flags; I had to be on the limit the entire time. I never looked back or in my mirrors and concentrated on the track ahead. It is a great result for the team.

Saturday's winner, rookie Benjamin Searcy started on the outside of the front row but missed a shift early that allowed fellow American Chris Miller to get around him. At this point Audette took off on the field stretching his lead to over four seconds. A blanket covered the rest of the top five with Miller, Searcy, Inge and Orsolon running nose to tail, putting on a show for the fans on the hillside.

When Miller made a mistake coming onto the front straight Searcy got around and left Miller and the rest behind, setting fast lap of the race at 50.272.

Searcy cut Audette's lead down to one second as they worked through slower traffic . With just a few laps to go Searcy locked up the brakes going into turn one and lost control of his Van Diemen, spinning off the track and allowing Audette to go onto victory by eight seconds.

I dropped back a bit on the start when I missed a shift, commented Searcy, who has won two out of the four races this season. I caught Miller and when he made a mistake on the downhill I got alongside going down the front straight and got past him. From there it was all about running Remy (Audette) down. I was turning qualifying lap after qualifying lap and overcooked it going into one. I was going for the win.

Searcy had to settle for seventh place while Miller logged another second place finish and Matthew Inge rounded out the podium.

Rookie Fabio Orsolon, driving for Alegra Motorsports, finished fourth, his best result thus far this year. We made a huge improvement on the setup compared to Saturday's race. It was hard to pass any cars here and we were all running so close for the entire race, it was a lot of fun. Near the end the car developed some oversteer and at that point I was really just hanging on. We're going to go back to the shop and work really hard for Mosport, commented Orsolon.

John Dole was the first Master's Class driver, rounding out the top five while Friday's fast man in practice, Tom Fatur came home sixth. Searcy followed in seventh with Colin Alexander eighth. Caitlin Johnston logged her third straight top finish in ninth and ran her fastest lap of the entire weekend during the race. Al Guibord, Jr. rounded out the top ten.

Going into Mosport, Remy Audette leads the championship standings by 18 points over Matthew Inge. Chris Miller sits third in points, just six points being Inge. Searcy is fourth, another 12 points back. Al Guibord Jr's consistent finishes put him fifth in the standings, 31 points behind Searcy while Searcy's Z-Sports teammate, Caitlin Johnston, with her three straight top ten finishes, sits sixth in the points, another 18 points back from Guibord Jr.

The season resumes at Mosport June 11-14. Stay tuned to F2000ChampionshipSeries.com for the latest.

Race Results:

Pos PIC No. Name Class Laps Total Tm Diff
1 1 21 Remy Audette F2 32 27:09.222
2 2 85 Chris Miller F2 32 27:17.719 +8.497
3 3 02 Matthew Inge F2 32 27:18.031 +8.809
4 4 26 Fabio Orsolon F2 32 27:20.107 +10.885
5 5 08 John Dole/M F2 32 27:20.696 +11.474
6 6 70 Tom Fatur/M F2 32 27:25.208 +15.986
7 7 10 Benjamin Searcy F2 32 27:25.559 +16.337
8 8 12 Colin Alexander F2 32 27:29.071 +19.849
9 9 20 Caitlin Johnston F2 32 27:30.980 +21.758
10 10 95 Al Guibord, Jr. F2 32 27:36.199 +26.977
11 11 97 Chris Gumprecht F2 32 27:44.700 +35.478
12 12 41 Brian Belardi F2 32 27:46.014 +36.792
13 13 7 Brent Gilkes/M F2 32 27:57.507 +48.285
14 14 94 Blake Teeter F2 32 27:57.576 +48.354
15 15 27 Craig Clawson/M F2 32 27:57.691 +48.469
16 16 90 Robert Wright/M F2 32 28:00.129 +50.907
17 17 00 Chris Burke F2 31 27:13.161 1 Lap
18 18 25 Jeff McCusker/M F2 31 27:19.834 +6.673
19 19 69 Paul Farmer/M F2 31 27:30.932 +17.771
20 20 96 Alejandro Munoz F2 31 27:34.048 +20.887
21 21 4 Chris Camadella/M F2 31 27:40.569 +27.408
22 22 23 Victor Carbone F2 31 27:42.210 +29.049
23 23 22 Jonathan Scarallo F2 27 27:58.659 5 Laps
24 24 39 Chris Fahan/M F2 18 15:38.122 14 Laps 9 Laps

NITROLUBE GOES WORLD WIDE

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NASCAR Canadian Tire Series: Whitlock wins after retirement announcement

St. Eustache, QC - With eight laps remaining in the Tufoil 250, Dave Whitlock driving the No. 39 Dickies/NMT Dodge Avenger drove by hometown favourite driver Andrew Ranger to claim his first victory in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series. This win comes on the heels of Whitlock’s announcement earlier in the week that he will retire from racing at the end of the 2009 season.

The No. 39 Dickies/NMT/Prostate Cancer Canada/POINTTS/CRS Trucking Dodge Avenger moved steadily up the timing charts during practice in the early afternoon.  Whitlock then went on to time trial 11th quickest.  “The car has been good all day,” stated Whitlock.  “We had a really good first lap in time trials and I was going for a better one on lap two and just got into turn three a little too hard and pushed up in the corner so we ended up starting back a little further than we wanted to.”

2008 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Champion, Scott Steckly took the top spot in qualifying and he would go on to lead the first 44 laps in the Tufoil 250 in front of an enthusiastic group of fans at Autodrome St. Eustache.  Track favourite Andrew Ranger then took over the front spot a position he enjoyed several times on the night.  After a long green flag run the caution fell on lap 195 and crew chief Warren Jones called Whitlock to the pits for some much needed right side tires. 

With only seven cars on the lead lap it turned out to be the right call as Whitlock then had tires that were at least 60 laps newer than everyone in front of him. Over the next 45 laps Whitlock would go on to show everyone why he is a three time CASCAR Super Series champion and has been a regular winner on the top circuits in Canada for many years.  With eight laps to go the No. 39 Dickies Dodge Avenger made the pass on Ranger to take the lead.  With four to go a three car wreck in turn three would bring out the caution.  With all the lead lap cars lining up double file a green, white, checkered finish had the fans on their feet for an exciting finish.

A smiling Whitlock got out of his car after the race and said, “We haven’t run as good as we would have liked the last couple of years so this is sweet.  We want to have a great year this year and go out with a bang.  This one is for Dickies and Bill McFarlane who was in attendance tonight.  We finally gave them their first win.  I also want to thank NMT and Dave Orosz who have been long time supporters and Prostate Cancer Canada, POINTTS and CRS Trucking.”

Rounding out the top five were 2. No. 02 Kerry Micks  3. No. 60 Ron Beauchamp Jr.  4.  No. 22 Scott Steckly   5.  No. 9 Mark Dilley.

Whitlock takes a slim ten point lead in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series points into round two at the home track for the Whitlock Motorsports team as they head to Delaware Speedway just outside of London, ON on June 6th.

TSN will broadcast the Tufoil 250 from St. Eustache on Saturday May 30th at 5 p.m. EST.

For more information on the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series please visit www.nascar.ca. For more information on Whitlock Motorsports please visit www.whitlockmotorsports.com

From Linda Jones // Wide Open Motorsport Solutions

Kerry Micks takes second in NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Opener

ST. EUSTACHE, QUEBEC (May 23, 2009) – Kerry Micks has started off the 2009 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series in fine fashion at Autodrome St. Eustache. Driver of the Micks Motorsports Beyond Digital Imagining (BDI) Ford Fusion, Micks, of Mount Albert, Ontario, finished the Tufoil 250 in second place to start his third season in the national stock car series.

“It was a good drive,” said Micks after the race. “The car was working very well. With the new engine, there have been a lot of changes on the car, but it’s come together very well.”

The Micks Fusion is powered by a Wegner Engineering Spec Engine, and the team has had a learning curve to climb since installing the engine, but Micks said overall he was very pleased with the team’s performance.

“We had a great weekend, and the engine was right there,” he continued. “And I want to thank my crew. They all performed admirably and I’m very pleased with them.”

Starting in seventh spot in the 19-car field, Micks chased eventual winner Dave Whitlock of Petrolia, Ontario in the final stages of the 259-lap event, and drove across the finish line just .244-seconds behind the victor.

Micks was in command at the half-way mark, getting by Andrew Ranger to take the point, and led from laps 87 to 113. Although penalized a lap for a pit stop infraction, and getting spun later in the event, Micks was able to drive around these obstacles to his podium finish. After the opening race in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, Micks is second in the Championship point standings.

Beyond Digital Imaging Inc. (BDI), Ultraflex, Royal Distributing, Canadian Detailing Services (CDS), Cathcart Trucking, Thor Motors (Ford), Seguin Marina, Steadymate, NGK Spark Plugs, FXR and Castrol are sponsors of Micks Motorsports, www.micksmotorsports.com.

The next event in the 13-race series will take place Saturday, June 6 at Delaware Speedway’s half-mile paved oval stock-car track, located just west of London, Ontario.

About Kerry Micks: Kerry Micks, the 1993 CASCAR Super Series National Champion is the driver of the #02 Micks Motorsports 2009 Ford Fusion in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series. Micks of Mount Albert, Ontario finished the 2008 season in fifth position in the championship point standings with five top-three podium finishes, and seven top-ten finishes including a win at Mosport Speedway. Micks collected one pole in 2009 at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve and had five podium finishes.

Kerry has been driving Ford products since 1995 when Ford of Canada came on board with Micks Motorsports, and it continues to support Ford and retain close relationships with all involved.

About NASCAR: The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) has a broad reach with 1,300 racing events at 95 tracks in the United States, Canada, and Mexico in several racing series. Among major professional sports, NASCAR ranks number one in corporate involvement and per-event attendance, and number two in television viewership. This sanctioning body for stock car racing is headquartered in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in New York City (Corporate Marketing), Los Angeles (Broadcasting Media and Entertainment), Charlotte, North Carolina (Licensing and Aftermarket), Concord, North Carolina (Research and Development Center), Mexico City, and Toronto, Ontario.

The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series will be presented across Canada in a 13-race schedule for 2009.

From Bruce F. Mehlenbacher

Lucas Oil Empire Super Sprints: Doug Emery Ends Three Year Drought Wins ESS Opener at Fonda Speedway

By MIKE MALLETT

FONDA, N.Y. – Doug Emery last made a stop in Lucas Oil Empire Super Sprint Victory Lane back in the summer of 2006 at Autodrome Granby.

Saturday evening, Emery led all 25-laps of the season opener at the Fonda Speedway to earn his seventh career series victory and the $2,000 winner’s prize courtesy of Herrington Farms.

“It feels good to win here at Fonda,” stated Emery.  “We’ve come so close to winning here a bunch of times with URC (United Racing Company) and ESS.  It was nice to finally have things line up and work out for a change.”

Emery, of South Onondaga, N.Y., started on the front row of the 22 car field alongside Gordy Button.  At the green, Emery jumped out to the lead on the bottom of turns one and two.

By lap eight, Emery had amassed a second lead of the field and he began to battle with the slower traffic at the tail of the field.  He was nearly flawless in his Patterson Motorsports mount as he kept his on the bottom of the speedway.

“Lapped traffic kept washing up the speedway,” stated Emery.  “I stayed right on the bottom and had no trouble at all getting by them.”

The first caution of the event came out at the halfway point when the defending series champion Steve Poirier went up in smoke in turn four.  This closed the field up behind Emery with Lance Yonge and Justin Barger now right behind him.

On the restart, Emery was able to again bolt out in front of the field as Yonge and Barger tried to track him down.  Emery proved to be very strong in his Emery powered F5.

They got one final opportunity on lap 20 when the caution came out for Jason Barney as he rolled over onto his side in turn three.

Emery was perfect on the start and pulled away from Yonge and Barger one more time.  They were never able to challenge him for the lead as Emery kept his No. 33 on the bottom of the speedway.



“My car was great on the bottom all night long,” said Emery.  “I kept waiting for someone to poke their nose around the top but no one ever did.”



Emery got the win while Barger, of Montrose, N.Y., was able to sneak around Yonge with three laps remaining to finish in second with his Cortlandt Auto Body sponsored Maxim.  Barger started on the inside of the sixth row.



“Second isn’t that bad at all,” commented Barger.  “It was tough with the lapped traffic because the leader is on the backstretch and you are on the front stretch.  Hopefully one of these days we’ll get the opportunity to start up front.”



On the last restart, Barger moved into second with his Deming Ford powered mount but he couldn’t get by the slower car of Lee Ladouceur to challenge Emery for the race lead.



“I would have moved out of the way if I were a slower car and guys were racing for the lead but that is the way it goes,” said Barger.  “Emery was able to get too far away for me to do anything to get by him.” 



Yonge, a former series champion from Penn Yan, N.Y., finished third with his Castner Performance powered Maxim.  He started ninth in the field and utilized the bottom of the speedway to make his way forward.



“We got better as the race went on,” stated Yonge.  “I got to thank Dick (Spadaro) for that one.  He took care of the tires today.  We put new tires on and that was the key.  I wanted that last caution but the bleeder let a little too much air of the right rear and that made the car way too tight.”



Dan Kaszubinski, of Syracuse, N.Y., crossed the line in fourth while Chuck Hebing came from 21st starting position to complete the top five.



ESS/Fonda Notes:  A stout field of 30 sprints to kick off the 26th Anniversary Tour…Making first ever ESS starts were Mark Zemcik and Jay Shypinka…Both Steve Poirier (engine) and Chuck Hebing (rear end) had to switch to their back-up mounts after the heats…Jessica Zemken qualified for the A-Main but lost her brakes during the pace laps and was forced to scratch from the feature, Lee Ladouceur was the beneficiary Zemken’s misfortune to start the A-Main…Despite the hour and a half rain delay, the Fonda crew provided a very fast and racy surface…The Lucas Oil Tour will make another stop at Fonda on Sept. 26th as a part of McDonald’s Weekend. 

Herrington Farms A-Main (25 laps) - Doug Emery ($2,200), Justin Barger, Lance Yonge, Dan Kaszubinski, Chuck Hebing, Gordy Button, Jeff VanDusen, Michael Parent, George Suprick, Tommy Wickham, Jeff Cook, Mike Stelter, Tim Kelly, Lee Ladouceur, Brian McDonald, Anthony Cain, Rick Wilson, Jason Barney, Cory Sparks, Warren Alexson, Jared Fink, Steve Poirier.

Lap Leader - Emery 1-25.

Herrington Farms/Car Mate Custom Built Trailers Heat 1 (10 laps) - Jason Barney, Lance Yonge, Tim Kelly, George Suprick, Jeff Cook, Brian McDonald.

Herrington Farms/Car Mate Custom Built Trailers Heat 2 (10 laps) - Steve Poirier, Dan Kaszubinski, Rick Wilson, Jeff VanDusen, Tommy Wickham, Anthony Cain.

Herrington Farms/ Car Mate Custom Built Trailers Heat 3 (10 laps) - Doug Emery, Jessica Zemken, Gordy Button, Justin Barger, Warren Alexson, Cory Sparks.

Winner's Circle/Cobra Motorhomes Dash (4 laps) - Jason Barney.

KSE Racing Products B-Main (10 laps) - Michael Parent, Mike Stelter, Jared Fink, Chuck Hebing.

Scratch - Jessica Zemken, Added Starter - Lee Ladouceur.

Did Not Qualify - Jim Porter, Matt Demitraszek, Brandon Warner, Mark Zemcik, James Hanson, Andy Noto, Jay Shypinka.

INDY 500: Conquest Racing's Alex Tagliani Top Rookie in Indy

INDIANAPOLIS (May 24, 2009) – Conquest Racing and Alex Tagliani, who returned to rookie status this month due to making his first appearance at the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway, posted the best finish by a rookie today at the 2009 Indianapolis 500 on the strength of a solid performance by the driver of the #36 ALL SPORT/BIG RED car and his crew. The 11th place finish was also Conquest’s best result at the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

In addition to the top rookie finish, Tagliani was the driver who moved up the most positions throughout the race, gaining 22 spots from his 33rd place on the grid. The Canadian driver battled it out on-track but was also assisted by the excellent work of his Conquest crew who helped him gain valuable positions throughout the race during his pit stops.

Tagliani immediately gained a couple of positions on the first lap when Mario Moraes and Marco Andretti were involved in a turn 1 crash. From then on Tag continuously made his way up through the field and was 23rd by the time he had completed his second pit stop on lap 24, making up six positions on that second stop alone. The Indy rookie soldiered on and by the half way mark had made his way up to 14th.

During the second half of the race Tagliani averaged an 11th place, running as high as 10th and fighting to maintain his position with the likes of Dario Franchitti, Vitor Meira, Hideki Mutoh and Danica Patrick. With 20 laps to go, the driver of the Dallara, which featured partnerships with the Rexall Edmonton Indy and the King Tut Exhibit at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, was in 11th position, where he stayed up until the checkered flag fell on his first Indianapolis 500 mile race.

Conquest Quote Board

11th – Alex Tagliani #36 ALL SPORT/BIG RED, highest finishing rookie
“The day started when I walked into Gasoline Alley and saw the grandstands. It was my first time here on race day and it was quite unbelievable. I’m very, very happy that I had a chance to participate in this race. Our day was pretty simple, we just tried to make no mistakes and stay out of trouble and continue to make up ground toward the front. We also tried not to make any mistakes in the pits and that’s exactly what we did. The team did a fantastic job and they did really great on the pit stops. Slowly but surely we made our way to the front. We kept leapfrogging other drivers so we got ourselves into P11. It was a really great job and a team effort. I’m very happy for All Sport, Big Red, Rexall Edmonton Indy, King Tut and everybody that helped us this month. To finish this month in front of all of these people is what it’s all about.”

Eric Bachelart, Conquest Team Owner
“The team did an awesome job today. Alex drove a great race and the guys did excellent work on the pit stops. It was a real team effort today and I am so proud of everyone. It’s been a long month with ups and downs but we couldn’t finish on a better high. We’re happy we were able to put on a good show for our partners ALL SPORT and BIG RED, the Rexall Edmonton Indy, the King Tut Exhibit, TDS and everyone else that has supported us through the month.”

From Karina Redmond / CONQUEST

Cornwall Motor Speedway: May 24, 2009 Report

Cornwall, Ont – Sunday, May 24, 2009 – Martin Bélanger – The Cornwall Motor Speedway presented a complete race program along with the postponed Semi-Pro feature of last week on Paul`s Auto Body Night. Beautiful weather and a great car-count in every category were on hand.

Mitch Jock took the lead in the 30-lap modified feature but he got out of the track in turn 3 and yellow came out on lap 1 and Tim O'Brien was the new leader. On the restart, a 10-car tangled occurred on the front stretch and red was thrown on the track, a few drivers such as Gage Morin and Perry Francis had severe damage on the cars. Kyle Dingwall had a great start and took the lead over O'Brien with Robidoux in third and Eric Gauvreau in fourth.

Robidoux made a good move from the inside to take second on O'Brien on lap 6, Gauvreau used the same lane to pass O'Brien for third on lap 8 while Dingwall was running alone in front with 10 laps in the book. At the halfway point, Dingwall had a full stretch lead over the second spot of Robidoux. With only 5 to go, Dingwall stopped in turn 3 and lost his lead but was able to move back in third because of his great lead, Robidoux is now the new leader with Gauvreau in second.

When the race got back to green, Billy Cook got his car on the roof in turn one to bring the second red of the feature. On the restart, Robidoux was still first with Dingwall taking second on Gauvreau. Robidoux led the final laps and won his first feature of the season over Dingwall, Gauvreau, O'Brien and Laurent Ladouceur rounded out the top 5. Mitch Jock and Tim O'Brien were the winners in the qualifying races.

A fine field of 22 cars took the start in the 20-lap Pro-Stock feature as Corey Wheeler and George Renaud quickly got into battle for the lead with Wheeler in front as Michel Desjardins brought the first caution on lap 3. Wheeler stayed in front on the restart but two laps later George Renaud used the outside lane to get pass by Wheeler on lap 5, Gilles Godard stopped in turn 4 and brought the yellow on the next lap.

Renaud got a good start along with Ghyslain Valade now second with Rock Aubin in third; Aubin grabbed second over Valade at the halfway point and was now chasing the leader as Joey Ladouceur stopped in the front of the grandstand on lap 11. Renaud still first with Aubin following him as a great battle for third was going on, Aubin was on the backbumper of Renaud with 5 to go, Ricky Thompson brought the yellow with only 2 laps to do. Renaud led the final laps to win the feature over Aubin and Valade. Renaud had a perfect night winning the first heat, Ladouceur and Bissonnette won the others.

In the Semi-Pro feature, Alex Burke was the early leader when Benoit Dubois got off the track in turn 4 and caution came out. When the race resumed, Burke was the lead and led for another lap when Derek Cryderman hit the wall in turn 4 and yellow is out. Kevin Fetterly JR is now the new leader on the restart as Benoit Dubois and Brent Kelsey got together in turn 4 on lap 3.

Fetterly in the lead with Gaetan Amesse now in second, when 2 laps later a 2-car tangle in the backstretch brought another caution. On the green Fetterly pulled away on the field and built himself a comfortable lead as Robert Delormier made a 360 in the backstretch on lap 8. Fetterly was able to resist a final caution and led the last laps to win the feature over Amesse and Jeff Philips completed the podium. Joe Woods, Derek Cryderman and Gaetan Amesse won the heats.

Jean-Paul Laberge took the early lead in the Semi-Pro feature that was postponed from last week, Guy Régimbald had a good start and was on the backbumper of Laberge with Benoit Dubois in the mix. The first caution came out of lap 4 when an accident occurred in the backstretch. Régimbald powered by Laberge on the restart with Dubois also passing Laberge for second on lap 5. 

Alex Burke and Wes Bilmer got together in turn 4 at halfway point and yellow is back out. Brent Kelsey got pass Régimbald when the green lights came back out and they only did one lap before a car stopped in the backstretch. Kelsey stayed first and led the final laps of the feature and won the first feature of the season over Régimbald and Steve Harrigan completes the top 3.

Trevor Gaucher got the lead in the 12-lap mini stock feature but got passed by Jean-Marc Larose in a 3-wide move on lap 2 when caution came out on the following lap for Mark Radbourne. Larose keeps the lead on the start with Ronnie Tyo taking second, when an accident occurred in the frontstretch. Larose and Tyo got into a good battle when the race resumed and went at it for a few laps when a few cars got tangled in the front stretch. Larose is still in front with Gerry Oszczakiewicz now battleling for second with Tyo but he was able to resist, Tyo was able to pass Larose in the last turn to win the mini-stock feature. Cory Winters, Gerry Oszczakiewicz and Ronnie Tyo won the heat races.

Modified Feature Results (30 laps)
Kayle Robidoux, Kyle Dingwall, Eric Gauvreau, Tim O'Brien, Laurent Ladouceur, Carey Terrance, Mitch Jock, Dave Heaslip, Roy Delormier, Lance Willix, Simon Perreault, Denis Gauvreau, Casey Swamp, Ron Valade, Alain Boisvert, Billy Cook, Gage Morin, Perry Francis, Marc Therrien, Joel Doiron (DNS)

Pro-Stock Feature Results (20 laps)
George Renaud, Rock Aubin, Ghyslain Valade, Joey Ladouceur, Travis Back, Corey Wheeler, Dave Bissonnette, Billy Woodward, Dion Oakes, Marc Lalonde, David Papineau, PJ Peters, Louie Jackson, Daniel Leduc, Chris Tremblay, William Chubb, Ricky Thompson, Mike Gaucher, Junior Barnes, Michel Desjardins, Gilles Godard

Semi-Pro Feature Results May 17 (15 laps)
Brent Kelsey, Guy Régimbald, Steve Harrigan, Gaetan Amesse, Jeff Philips, Derek Cryderman, Robert Delormier, Jean-Paul Laberge, Yves Vandette, Wes Bilmer, Kevin Fetterly jr, Benoit Dubois, Kevin Clément, Sébastien Bazinet, Alex Burke, Kevin Jodoin, Kurtis McPhee, Ghislain Lacombe, Nicolas Gauvreau (DNS)

Semi-Pro Feature Results May 24 (15 laps)
Kevin Fetterly jr, Gaetan Amesse, Jeff Philips, Robert Delormier, Yves Vandette, Steve Harrigan, Ryan Philips, Guy Régimbald, Jean-Paul Laberge, Kevin Clement, Sébastien Bazinet, Brent Kelsey, Benoit Dubois, Eric Alexander, Derek Cryderman, Joe Woods, Wes Bilmer (DNS), Sloane Shulman (DNS), Alex Burke (DNS), Ghyslain Lacombe (DNS), Kevin Jodoin (DNS), Kurtis McPhee (DNS)

Mini-Stock Feature Results (12 laps)
Ronnie Tyo, Jean-Marc Larose, Eli Gilbert, Frank Colpitts, Gerry Oszczakiewicz, Trevor Gaucher, Marc Chartrand, Ben Nurse, Frank Bélair, Mark Radbourne, David Sequin, Dominic Charlebois, Carl Gorry, Kyle Bouvier, Cory Winters, Marc Usereau (DNS), Chris James (DNS), Scott Nurse (DNS), Serge Myre (DNS)

NCATS: Strong Start for Hathaway in Snap-on Tools Dodge at St Eustache

St Eustache, Quebec- NASCAR Canadian Tire Series driver Jason Hathaway from Appin, Ontario posted a strong start to the season behind the wheel of the #3 Team 3 Red Snap-on Tools Dodge  this past Saturday night in the Trufoil 250 at Autodrome St Eustache just outside of Montreal, Quebec.

The day got off to a solid start with a moderate showing in practice.  An early qualifying draw position and a changing race track brought a 14th place qualifying effort for the 250 lap event.

“This is a pretty crazy racetrack and things happen pretty quickly out there.” driver Jason Hathaway volunteered.  “You have to stay on your game all race long and we have some work ahead of us tonight.”

Starting back in the pack, newly name Team 3 Red/EHR Crew Chief TJ Martino’s goal was to make the right decisions on the adjustments of the car to get his driver to the front of the pack and into contention.  By lap 50, Hathaway had taken his Dodge up into the 9th position.  Martino brought the race machine into the pits to the attention of the crew on lap 71 for left side tires followed by a second stop for fuel.

After getting caught up in a spun just after the half way point the Team was held for one lap in the pits to serve a penalty for pitting too early.  Once back on the track team Spotter Ray Doucette helped Hathaway to work his way back up through the pack and toward the front as TJ Martino adjusted on the car.

As the laps wound down in the race a late race spin involving a number of cars mixed up the running order and Hathaway made his way through with minor right side damage.  The race finished under green, white, checker conditions earning the Team’s first top 10 of the 2009 NASCAR Canadian Tires Series schedule.

“It was a pretty busy night out there on the track.  We made some adjustments to the car throughout the race and it got better as the race went on.  Our penalty in the pits was the only thing holding us back and we were racing to get back on the lead lap late in the race. I am really proud of this team tonight and TJ and Ray made some great calls throughout the night.” said a hot and tired Hathaway after the race.

The next event on the Team 3 Red/EHR schedule will take Hathaway and his Team back to his home track, Delaware Speedway near London, Ontario, on June 6th where he has won countless late model features and broken track records.

Team 3 Red/EHR is partnered with Snap-on Tools, Vortex Brake Pads, Ted Reader’s World Famous BBQ, Advantex Freight Forwarders, Castrol, Fast Eddie Racewear, Dayco Belts & Hoses, Choko Motorsport Apparel and Praxair.

For more information on the Team you can visit www.team3red.com or contact Jamie Hakonson at 905-642-1010 or jamie@team3red.com. // To learn more about the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series you can check out www.nascar.ca

Brighton Speedway: Fan Appreciation Night

BRIGHTON, ON -  The Campbellford Chrysler Car Load Night ,on May 23rd , at Brighton Speedway featured the always loved Brighton Automotive Fan Appreciation night.  Intermission includes a meet and greet with all of the drivers, for all of the fans in attendance.   The front straight is lined with all of the cars and their drivers who take a few minutes to sign autographs, hand out giveaways and thank the fans for their on-going support. 

“I love Fan Appreciation night.  I get to go out on the track, meet up with my fans, show them my thanks, and celebrate all that is dirt track racing at Brighton Speedway.  It reminds me that we are a family with a common interest – grassroots motorsport racing,” said Bev Rosebush, of Belleville, who drives the #91 Bill’s John’s Comp 4.  Bev was giving her fans pink power bands that read Race for the Cure, a perfect match for the theme of her car’s paint scheme and decals refelcting the Pink Ribbon campaign.

Others who had a great night on the track included Roger Croft, of Shannonville, in his #08 Bill’s Johns Comp 4, Doug Anderson, of Trenton, in his #72 Brighton Automotive Pro Stock, and Warren Mowat, of Trenton, in his #46 Picture This Pure Stock.  All three gentlemen took home double wins on the night, taking their qualifying heat and the feature in their respective class.  Anderson’s win included taking the first of the Hotch’s Auto Parts Triple Crown races for his class.  Charlie Sandercock, #57 in the Bainer’s Radiator Canadian Modified, didn’t finish his qualifier because of mechanical difficulties, but overcame them and drove into Victory Lane for his feature win.

The dynamic duo of Paul and Chris Reid, of Trenton, took the inaugural feature for the Gord’s Water Vantastics, and former racer Brady Kelman, of Trenton,  took home the checker in the #10 Picture This Pure Stock of Chris Turner,  that he drove in the Pure Stock Mechanics Race.

The next race event is scheduled for May 30th,  when LeClair Electric presents Vintage Car Racing & Exhibition in support of the Kingston Speedway Reunion plus Race to Read Finale for all participating Grade 3 students, featuring the FAB Four!  Green Flag flies at 7pm.  For more information visit www.brightonspeedway.com.

For more information on this article contact Angie at 613-475-1102

Photo Taglines:

1)The cars and their drivers lined the front straight at Brighton Speedway on May 23rd for the first Brighton Automotive Fan Appreciation event for 2009.  Included is the #91 Bill’s Johns Comp 4 belonging to Bev Rosebush of Belleville, who has done her car up with pink ribbon theme supporting Race for the Cure.

2)Doug Anderson, from Trenton, with his #72 Brighton Automotive Pro Stock, waves the checkered, and wears the gold crown following his feature, and the first win in the Hotch’s Triple Crown event at Brighton Speedway on May 23rd.

NCATS: Steckly Takes Pole & Comes Back to Finish Fourth

St. Eustache, Quebec, Sunday May 24, 2009:  Reigning NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Champion Scott Steckly started off the new season as planned by sitting on the pole for the Tufoil 250 at Autodrome St. Eustache.  After leading the 250 laps event early, then battling adversity midway through the race the team bounced back to bring the No. 22 Canadian Tire Dodge Avenger across the finish line in fourth.

Steckly, sporting new sponsor Canadian Tire colours in 2009 set quick time during the mid day qualifying session and he would go on to lead the first 44 laps of the 250 lap event.  Difficulty started for the Steckly team when attempting to pit early for fuel and tires, they were partially blocked from entering their pit stall by another competitor.  A one lap penalty ensued for pitting out of their pit box.

The Canadian Tire/Tow Truck in a Box team knew there would be more cautions and a “lucky dog” opportunity could result in getting them back on the lead lap.  On lap 233, Steckly was indeed the beneficiary of the lucky dog rule and was awarded his lap back.  After pitting for tires, Steckly would then attempt to get back to the front.  With less than 15 laps to go a valiant effort was made and the No. 22 Canadian Tire/Tow Truck in a Box Dodge Avenger crossed the finish line in fourth.

“If we had of had a few more laps we would have been on the podium for sure,” said Steckly after the race.  “It was a bit frustrating for us early in the night but my guys stayed on track and we just worked hard to get back on the lead lap.  I want to thank Canadian Tire, Tow Truck in a Box and all of our other sponsors; we hope to keep them up front all year long.”

The 22 Racing Team compete in the 13 race NASCAR Canadian Tire Series from coast to coast in Canada using 350 parts from Canadian Tire.

Finish:  1.  No. 39 Dave Whitlock  2.  No.  02 Kerry Micks  3.  No. 60 Ron Beauchamp Jr.  5.  No.  9 Mark Dilley. 

The Tufoil 250 from Autodrome St. Eustache will air on TSN on Saturday May 30 at 5 p.m. EST. Event number two will be held on Saturday June 6th at London’s Delaware Speedway.

About 22 Racing: Scott Steckly and the No. 22 Racing Team are supported by a large group of sponsors including:  Motomaster, Exide, Erb, Mobil Super, AW Millwrights, Marks Work Warehouse, Reefer Sales and Twin City Graphics.

Scott Steckly and his 22 Racing Team are a familiar face in top level stock car racing in Canada. Steckly in his second season with the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series in 2008 went on to win 4 events, place 2nd in four more and overall post 9 top five finishes on their way to claiming the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Championship.  The team is based out of the small town of Milverton, ON just outside of Stratford, ON. 

About Canadian Tire: Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited (TSX: CTC.a, CTC) operates more than 1,200 general merchandise and apparel retail stores, gas bars and car washes in an inter-related network of businesses engaged in retail, financial services and petroleum. More than 57,000 Canadians work across the Canadian Tire organization from coast-to-coast. Canadian Tire Retail and its Associate Dealers together form one of Canada's best-known and most successful retailers with 475 stores in communities nationwide. Canadian Tire stores offer a unique mix of products and services through the leadership of three specialty stores under one roof - Automotive, Sports and Leisure, and Home Products.

For more information on the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series please visit www.nascar.ca. For more information on Scott Steckly and 22 Racing please contact: Linda Jones // Wide Open Motorsport Solutions // (705) 730-4044 // Email: ljones@wideopensolutions.ca

NASCAR TRUCKS: J.R. Fitzpatrick Dover preview

J.R. Fitzpatrick
No. 4 Kevin Harvick Inc. Chevrolet Silverado
Team Race Preview
NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Race 7 of 25 – Dover (Del.) International Speedway

J.R. Fitzpatrick to Make First Start for Kevin Harvick Inc.:

This weekend marks the beginning of J.R. Fitzpatrick’s NASCAR Camping World Truck Series career as a driver for Kevin Harvick Inc. (KHI). Fitzpatrick will drive the No. 4 Chevrolet Silverado in the AAA Insurance 200 at Dover (Del.) International Speedway. The Cambridge, Ontario, Canada native will compete in eight Truck Series events for KHI throughout the remainder of the 2009 season. Fitzpatrick will also climb behind the wheel of a KHI entry in two Nationwide Series races at Watkins Glen (N.Y.) International Raceway on August 8 and Cicuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal, Quebec, Canada on August 30.

What Time Is It? It’s Game Time:

To prepare for his first start at Dover (Del.) International Speedway (DIS), J.R. Fitzpatrick plans to spend time this week playing a computer game that simulates the one-mile oval to make himself familiar with the track before he makes his first laps in Thursday’s practice sessions.

KHI co-owner Kevin Harvick sat on the pole in his first NASCAR Natiowide Series start at DIS on June 3, 2000, having never seen the track except on a racing simulated game. He ended the race with a sixth-place finish and led 97 laps.

Jaret’s Angels: This weekend, the No. 33 and No. 4 trucks of Kevin Harvick Inc. will run a special decal in honor of Jaret’s Angels. Jaret’s Angels is a family-and-friend support group for 10-year-old Jaret Arneson, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes (often referred to as juvenile diabetes) at the age of two. All of the donations collected by Jaret’s Angels go directly to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). With more than $15,000 raised in 2009, Jaret’s Angels has reached a true milestone, collecting more than $100,000 since Jaret was diagnosed in 2000.

While KHI is racing with Jaret’s Angels on the trucks at Dover, Jaret will be leading a contingent of family and friends a short distance away at the JDRF Walk for the Cure at Washington Nationals Stadium in Washington D.C. In June, he will be among 150 kids from around the country selected to participate in the JDRF Children’s Congress, where children with diabetes tell their stories to Congress in search of support for government-backed research funding.

Behind the Wheel with J.R. Fitzpatrick:

What do you expect during your first experience at Dover? “For one thing, I’m hoping that I do not find out why it is called the “Monster Mile.” I have never raced on a concrete track before, but I have a lot of confidence and I expect to do well. I know I will have a good truck at Dover. It is the same truck Ryan Newman drove at Lowe’s Motor Speedway two weeks ago and finished fourth. I am just ready to get back in a truck and race.”

Is there any advice about Dover that you have been given? “I talked with Kevin (Harvick) a little bit and the main thing he told me is that Dover is easy to overdrive. In practice, I plan to follow my teammate, Ron Hornaday, around the track for a few laps and learn about how I should drive the track. One of my friends back home has a racing simulator on his computer that has Dover on it, so I’m also going to use that to help prepare myself for this track.”

Chassis No. 014 Returns to the Track for Back-to-Back Races:

J.R. Fitzpatrick will drive the same truck that was driven to a fourth-place finish by Ryan Newman in the Truck Series’ last race, the North Carolina Education Lottery 200 at Lowe’s Motor Speedway, two weeks ago. The truck is now in its third season of competition and has won two races in the past two seasons. Ron Hornaday took it victory lane at Lowe’s in May 2007 and Jack Sprague finished second in this truck at Dover (Del.) International Speedway in June 2008. Ryan Newman scored his first career truck series win in his first race for KHI at Atlanta Motor Speedway with chassis No. 014 in October 2008 and Cale Gale started on the outside of the front row at Texas Motor Speedway one week later.

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.

From Tyler Patterson   |   Kevin Harvick Inc.

NCATS: Dilley Finishes Fifth in Season Opener

St. Eustache, QC - Mark Dilley driver of the No. 9 Dodge/Leland Dodge Avenger fought his way back from a flat tire and a one lap penalty to finish in fifth on Saturday night at Autodrome St. Eustache.

Tufoil 250 practice saw Dilley one spot off the top rung with the second quickest time.  After the nineteen NASCAR Canadian Tire Series teams on hand time trialed, Dilley lined up the No. 9 Dodge in row three on the inside in fifth. The Tufoil 250 is event number one in the thirteen race NASCAR Canadian Tire Series schedule with events from Coast to Coast broadcast on TSN.

At the drop of the green flag Dilley started his move to the front and by lap 25 the No. 9 Dodge/Leland Dodge Avenger was up to second.   A short time later Dilley came to pit road to the attention of his crew with a flat right front tire from contact on the track.  Dilley later again brought his Dodge back to the pits for more tires and fuel and was assessed a one lap penalty for passing on the track before entering the pits.  The team went to work then and got him in a position to earn the "lucky dog" or free pass.  Before the 100 lap Mark Dilley was back on the lead lap and heading to the front again.  Contact with another racer late in the event put Dilley back further in the field but a late race charge saw take a fifth place finish.

"I was really happy with our car all day – it was hooked up," said Dilley after the race.  "It was short track racing with lots of contact out there.  We just tried to stay focused and got a fifth place finish for it."

Dilley teammate Dave Whitlock went to victory lane after a two year drought for wins with Kerry Micks, Ron Beauchamp Jr. and Scott Steckly rounding out the rest of the top five.

Event No. 2 on the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series schedule is Saturday June 6th at Delaware Speedway in London.  After a two year absence from this great racing facility the teams are looking forward to returning to this fast ½ mile oval.

The Tufoil 250 will be broadcast on TSN on Saturday May 30th at 5 p.m. EST. Mark Dilley would also like to acknowledge and thank his other sponsors including: Leland Industries, Mobil 1, Exide, Avenue Motorworks and CRS Trucking.

For more information on the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series please visit: www.nascar.ca. For more information on Mark Dilley please contact: Linda Jones // Wide Open Motorsport Solutions // (705) 730-4044 // ljones@wideopensolutions.ca

NASCAR Canadian Tire Series: 'Racin' Jason White at St-Eustache

Jason White, in his #21 A&W car, captured his first Top Ten finish in his first race of the season, Saturday at the Autodrome St. Eustache, Quebec, recording a 7th place finish in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series' Tufoil 250.

“St. Eutache has never been a track that I have done well on.” Jason said in his post race remarks. And, the way things went earlier in the day, it looked like the Quebec track was not going to be good to him again this year. The possibility of a top ten finish in his first race of the season did not seem likely, hours before the flag dropped to signal the beginning of the race.

After fifteen practice laps, Jason’s A&W #21 car experienced mechanical difficulties when he blew a header gasket.

But, #21 A&W crew went to work and by the qualifying heat, Jason was ready go.

Starting the race in the #15 spot, White began the task of working his way to the front of the pack.

For 30 to 40 laps Jason battled four other drivers in a lead group of 5 cars. White led the pack for laps 135 thru 138. But, at his last pit stop, the crew had trouble with two seized lug nuts. By the time this problem had been corrected the A&W #21 car had lost a lap to the lead group.

Jason left the pit, driving hard to reclaim his position in the lead group. Another “Caution” flag slowed White’s quest for first. But when the “Caution” was lifted White roared towards the lead, finishing seventh behind Dave Whitlock who captured the race.

White’s first “Top Ten” finish of the year in his first race of the season left the Western Canadian driver from Sun Peaks ecstatic about the possibilities for the rest of the season.

“When you consider the adversity we faced, and beat, today, you just gotta know that we are ready to rock and roll this year, like never before!”

*The Coca-Cola “Move Of The Race” Award is given to the driver who advanced the most positions from the start of the race to the finish. Jason started 15th and finished 7th. 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!!

Press release by: Paul White (sports journalist) // For more team info please contact: mike@jasonwhiteracing.com
Morgan Misener on Facebook group site: RacinJasonWhite
Twitter page : RacinJasonWhite

LAKE ERIE SPEEDWAY OPENING NIGHT 2009

(North East, PA- May 23, 2009)- Memorial Day weekend got off to an exiting start at Lake Erie Speedway on opening night while kicking off their 2009 season. Over 4,130 fans watched as 94 cars raced through six feature races.

The night began with the Boyer RV Center Bandoleros feature race. Eleven cars participated in this twelve-lap race. #23 Devon Moore started the action in Lap 2 with a spin-out that led to the night’s first caution flag. #69 Brody Wood took the early lead from Lap 4 on, closely followed by #21 Alexis Wilson and #1 Brandon DeBrakeleer. Moore was passed by the leaders in both Lap 5 and again in Lap 12. Wood held off all racers and remained in the lead position for the rest of the race, followed by Wilson, DeBrakeleer, #81 Michael Walker, and #26 Anthony Riforgiato.

The next group of competitors was the Jensens Target Collision Compacts which raced fifteen laps with 23 cars. #77 Julie McAvoy took an early lead with #17m Rich Miller and #95 Jonathan Breads racing closely on their heels. As #84 Amber Belson moved off the track in Lap 7, McAvoy began smoking in both Lap 7 and Lap 12, but quickly regained momentum. Breads finally took the lead in Lap 10 and never looked back. #12 Luke Johnson, #4b Ashley Huffman, #9 Dan Smith, and #43 Jason Johnson were some of the racers that were lapped by Breads. Breads was followed by McAvoy, #7 Dave McAvoy, Miller, and #34b Brandon Huffman.

The following group of cars to take the track were the nine Street Stocks, which didn’t even make it around once before a black flag was pulled on #1 Jeff Campbell for passing below the yellow line. After his stop-and-go penalty, he was able to pull back into 4th place in Lap 11. #83 Russ Conti took a huge lead in Lap 3, until he was forced to pull off the track and lose his lead in Lap 9. Along with Conti, #35 Larry Houser, #20 John Denny, and #99 Dennis Kszos all retired themselves from the race. After Conti left the race, #01 Leslie Bohrer took a huge lead in her pink car and continued to lead for the remainder of the twenty-five lap race. #21 Dave Wilson made a close attempt at passing Bohrer in Lap 21 but was unable to complete the pass. While Bohrer and Wilson raced under the checkered flag, Campbell made a comeback from his early penalty to finish in third place.

The next feature event showcased the Career Concepts Legends. This twenty-five lap race had three cautions, the first flag being waved after #38W Dan Weaver and #67 Bob McQuiston tangled in Lap 2. The second caution flag came when #38 once again spun in Lap 4. The third and final caution flag was waved when #26 Cody Myers spun out of control in Lap 7. #25 Steven Sunday remained on Hines’ back the entire race, but finished in second place. After the second flag, #8 Justin Hines held the lead from Lap 4 on and was able to get the trophy for the Legends feature. #21 Patrick Lyden, #39h Jeremy Haudricourt, and #9 Larry Occhibone finished in third, fourth, and fifth places, respectively.

The Dodge Modifieds were next to take the track with seventeen cars racing for 25 laps. Once again, many caution flags were pulled during this race, starting with #11 Casey Swabik and #24 Randy Culver spinning each other out in Lap 2. #32 Eric McCray took a huge lead in Lap 5 and never failed to let go of his position. McCray pulled further ahead while #1 Terry Akerly and #77 Dave McAvoy battled for second place. After chasing McAvoy for ten laps, Akerly moved into second place in Lap 11. Akerly came close to passing McCray in Lap 19 but was unable to take the lead. #14 Carter Mook and #30 Chris Briggs tangled and ended up nose-to-nose in corner 1 of Lap 15 which created another caution flag, followed by #28 Dale Murdock who spun but re-fired soon after. The last caution flag came during Lap 20 when #13 Nate Carlson and #20 Bob Belson bumped. McCray finished first with a huge lead while Akerly and McAvoy trailed behind.

The last feature event of opening night at LES was the forty-lap Plyler Overhead Door Late Models, which showcased 18 cars. #3 Jeff Brown, #24 Dave Rigan, and #69 Josh John got off to a quick battle beginning in Lap 3 until Rigan took a strong lead in Lap 7. #20 Scott Nurmi and #52 Joe Bizzaro tangled during the same lap creating a caution flag, followed by #99 Rob Marhefka spinning four times in Lap 8 and quickly leaving and returning to the race. Soon after #23 Jimmy Weller also spun out, left the race, and returned. #65 George Skora III moved into third place in Lap 16 until Rigan once again took the lead in Lap 18 and John dropped back into fifth place. Rigan, who has never won a race before, stayed in the lead through Lap 36 until #29 Richard Arndt, who was being lapped, spun out Rigan causing his night to end early. After this exciting and stunning end, Skora III moved into first place, followed by Brown, #56 Rich Skora, and #9 Will Thomas.

Canadian Motor Speedway: Public Open House slated for June 4 in Fort Erie (ON). Race fans welcome

On Thursday, June 4, the team behind the proposed Canadian Motor Speedway in Fort Erie, Ontario will host a public open house to inform and solicit information about the project. Click on the image above for the location and times.

The discussion will centre on project benefits the region, but racing fans are also encouraged to attend as technical aspects of the facility will be revealed. The Open House will also give attendees a chance to provide feedback.

Daytona International Speedway flood photos

You may have heard that NASA is having trouble bringing the shuttle home because of the storm parked over Florida. Daytona International Speedway is having its own issues with the weather. Photos of flooding at Daytona International Speedway are making the rounds on the internet. Here are some that were sent our way by one contributor.

Ohsweken Speedway: May 22, 2009 report and photos

Photos courtesy of Rick Wellman Photography // http://www.rickwellmanphotography.com // 905 354 4445

NAIDA NAILS DOWN SPRINT CAR VICTORY AT OHSWEKEN; COX, BROWN, AND MCDONALD ALSO VICTORIOUS

By Tommy Goudge (May 22, 2009) – Dain Naida and his Michigan-based team chose to skip a weekend of racing close to home and instead made the trek to Ohsweken Speedway.  That decision paid off as Naida charged from eighth on the grid to win the Corr/Pak Merchandising Sprint Car Feature on Friday night.  The ESSO Thunder Stocks feature was also exciting, as Jamie Cox beat opening night feature winner Shayne Pierce to the finish line by mere inches. Meanwhile Mitchell Brown won his second ESSO Mini Stocks feature in a row, and Jesse McDonald became the latest new face in victory lane in Bomber competition, in a fast and exciting program which ended shortly before 10:15 p.m.

The twenty lap Corr/Pak Sprint feature began with Ryan Hunsinger and Brad Malloy on the front row, and it was Malloy taking early command.  As the field came down the front stretch to complete the first lap, fifth place starter Kyle Moffit experienced problems for the second week in a row and slowed in front of much of the field.  Amazingly, only Chuck Hebing and Travis Cunningham were collected in the incident, and Hebing was able to make repairs and return to the race.  When the race restarted, Malloy once again took command out front, but hard-charging Tom Huppunen quickly made his way to the front, passing Malloy with five laps in the books. 

Lapped traffic quickly became a factor in the race as Huppunen was running the fastest laps of the race, but Malloy was keeping pace behind him, with Ryan Hunsinger and Dain Naida closing in as well.  Naida quickly made his way into third and began to challenge Malloy for the runner-up position, eventually taking the spot during the thirteenth lap.  The last seven laps were spectacular as Huppunen and Naida darted in and out of lapped traffic, sometimes going three-wide as they battled for the lead.  Naida was able to hold on for the win, his first at Ohsweken in fifteen tries.  Huppunen came home second, followed by a hard-charging Glenn Styres, Malloy, and Hunsinger.  Heat races for the twenty-eight cars in attendance were won by Huppunen, Jamie Collard, and Hunsinger, while the Consi was claimed by Brad Knab.

The ESSO Thunder Stocks began their twenty lap feature with Dave Bailey and Brad Herron on the front row, with Herron getting a good start and jumping out front, bringing Jamie Cox with him.  Behind him a fierce battle raged, while Mike Ward and Shayne Pierce made their way to the front from the fourth and fifth rows, respectively.  Ward’s night came to an end prematurely, with mechanical gremlins once again the culprit. 

After winning on opening night, Pierce looked to be the class of the field again, but after Pierce took over the lead on a restart, Cox kept pace and made his move in turns three and four on the last lap, barely beating Pierce to the finish line in a photo finish.  The jubilant driver celebrated his first ever win at Ohsweken in victory lane while Pierce settled for runner-up, followed by Herron, Jeremy Bean, and Kyle Magrin.  Heat races for the twenty-four Thunder Stocks in attendance were claimed by Herron, Ward, and Glen Leinen.

A familiar story played itself out in the ESSO Mini-Stocks feature as Mitchell Brown, Abel Castelein, and Kevin Hilborn all quickly made their way to the front when the green flag dropped on the fifteen lap feature.  Pole sitter Rob Hoskins was strong out front, however and held a healthy lead over the trio until a caution flag slowed the field.  On the restart, Hoskins’ machine did not take off as well as the others, allowing Castelein to take over the lead.  Brown was not to be denied though, and quickly made his way to the lead and claiming his second feature win in a row at Ohsweken.  Heat races for the nineteen Mini Stocks in attendance were won by Hoskins, Castelein, and Chase Hess.

In the Bomber feature, Jesse McDonald took off when the green flag dropped, while last week’s top finishers Karl Sault and Dale Cooke renewed acquaintances, fighting for the second position for much of the race.  Sault eventually dispatched Cooke to third, but it was too late to catch McDonald, who added his name to the list of winners in entry level division that was created last season.

Friday Night Thunder returns to Ohsweken Friday, May 29 when the Best Western Cairn Croft Hotel presents a special card featuring the Empire Super Sprints tour, plus the ESSO Thunder Stocks, ESSO Mini-Stocks, and Bombers!  Friday Night Thunder at Ohsweken Speedway offers affordable family entertainment just a short drive away from most mid-western Ontario locations. Adult General Admission for this Special ESS event is just $15, while Seniors and Students are $8, and kids 12 and under are FREE! Please visit www.OhswekenSpeedway.com for more information. Gates open at 6:00p.m. with the first race taking the green flag at 7:45p.m. this Friday, May 29!

FRIDAY NIGHT THUNDER 2009
ROUND 2 RACE REPORT – MAY 22, 2009
OHSWEKEN SPEEDWAY
OHSWEKEN, ONTARIO
EVENT SPONSOR – GRISDALE RACING PRODUCTS
Race Start: 7:45 P.M.
Race End: 10:15 P.M.

CORR/PAK MERCHANDISING SPRINT CARS
HEAT RACES (Top 5 Transfer To A-Feature):
BS&B RADIATOR Heat Race #1
1.  12c Tom Huppunen (Fenwick), 2. 7 Kyle Moffit (South Dayton, NY), 3. 01 Mikey Kruchka (Hamilton), 4. 18 Kevin Loveys (Hamilton), 5. 5 Keith Dempster (Alton), 6. 38 Brad Knab (Delevan, NY), 7. 75 Jim Sweers (Hamilton), 8. 10 Bob Crawford (Sutton), 9. 84 Tyler Rand (Consecon) DNF, 10. 5d Dave Dykstra (Port Colborne) DNS. Time – 1:48.839 NEW TRACK RECORD

BEST WESTERN CAIRN CROFT HOTEL Heat Race #2
1. 27 Jamie Collard (Burford), 2. 14h Jim Huppunen (Fenwick), 3. 5m Brad Malloy (Niagara Falls), 4. 71 Travis Cunningham (Grimsby), 5. 94 Stan Zanchin (Fort Erie), 6. 1a John Riegling (Chatham), 7. 3 Wayne Ashton (Kitchener), 8. 4z Joel Lehman (Elora), 9. F37 Jim Porter (Grand Island, NY) DNS. Time – 1:58.784

GRISDALE RACING PRODUCTS Heat Race #3
1. 77x Ryan Hunsinger (Brantford), 2. 35 Jared Zimbardi (Salamanca, NY), 3. 6n Dain Naida (Belleville, MI), 4. 0 Glenn Styres (Ohsweken), 5. 21x Kevin Job (Campbellville), 6. 45 Chuck Hebing (Ontario, NY), 7. 11 Chris Jones (Demorestville), 8. 21j John Burbridge, Sr. (Simcoe), 9. 90 James Evans (Beamsville). Time – 1:53.835

CONSI
(Top 5 Transfer To A-Feature)
1. 38 Brad Knab, 2. 45 Chuck Hebing, 3. 5d Dave Dykstra, 4. 1a John Riegling, 5. 11 Chris Jones, 6. 3 Wayne Ashton, 7. 10 Bob Crawford, 8. 4z Joel Lehman, 9. 84 Tyler Rand, 10. 90 James Evans, 11. 21j John Burbridge, Sr., 12. 75 Jim Sweers, 13. f37 Jim Porter. Time – 2:28.256

CORR/PAK MERCHANDISING
SPRINT CAR FEATURE (20 laps)
Position. # Name (Starting Position)
1. 6n Dain Naida (8)
2. 12c Tom Huppunen (4)
3. 0 Glenn Styres (3)
4. 5m Brad Malloy (2)
5. 77x Ryan Hunsinger (1)
6. 5d Dave Dykstra (18)
7. 35 Jared Zimbardi (11)
8. 21x Kevin Job (15)
9. 5 Keith Dempster (13)
10. 01 Mikey Kruchka (7)
11. 38 Brad Knab (16)
12. 18 Kevin Loveys (10)
13. 1a John Riegling (19)
14. 11 Chris Jones (20)
15. 27 Jamie Collard (12)
16. 14h Jim Huppunen (9)
17. 94 Stan Zanchin (14) DNF
18. 45 Chuck Hebing (17)
19. 7 Kyle Moffit (5)
20. 71 Travis Cunningham (6)
No Time

ESSO THUNDER STOCKS
HEAT RACES:
Heat Race #1
1. 12 Brad Herron (Brantford), 2. 37 Jeremy Bean (Stoney Creek), 3. 88 Shayne Pierce (Welland), 4. 24k Kyle Magrin (Hamilton), 5. 8 Ryan Dinning (Caledonia), 6. 33 Colin Court (Jerseyville) DNF, 7. 32 Rodney Rutherford (Waterdown) DNF, 8. 40 Terry Osmond (Cambridge) DNF

Heat Race #2
1. 95 Mike Ward (Niagara Falls), 2. 44 Jamie Cox (Cambridge), 3. 83 Lee Winger (Caledonia), 4. 31 Dave Bailey (Hagersville), 5. 55 Mike Thorne (Caledonia), 6. 1 Chris Dickie (Brantford), 7. 9m Tyler Anderson (St. Catharines) DNF, 8. 88x Mike Granton (St. Catharines) DNS

Heat Race #3
1. 9 Glen Leinen (Hannon), 2. 108 Billy Bleich, Jr. (Port Robinson), 3. 17 Rob Disher (Grimsby), 4. 31b Barry Blanchard (Welland), 5. 02 Erinn Bailey (Paris), 6. 18 Amanda Stoner (Hamilton) DNF, 7. 13 Mark Saul (Hagersville) DNS, 8. 00 Robbie General DNS

ESSO THUNDER STOCKS A-FEATURE (20 laps)
Position. # Name (Starting Position)
1. 44 Jamie Cox (3)
2. 88 Shayne Pierce (11)
3. 12 Brad Herron (2)
4. 37 Jeremy Bean (8)
5. 24k Kyle Magrin (5)
6. 31b Barry Blanchard (12)
7. 83 Lee Winger (6)
8. 9 Glen Leinen (7)
9. 1 Chris Dickie (16)
10. 33 Colin Court (17)
11. 32 Rodney Rutherford (20)
12. 55 Mike Thorne (14) DNF
13. 95 Mike Ward (9) DNF
14. 31 Dave Bailey (1) DNF
15. 17 Rob Disher (4) DNF
16. 8 Ryan Dinning (13) DNF
17. 02 Erinn Bailey (15) DNF
18. 108 Billy Bleich, Jr. (10) DNF
19. 9m Tyler Anderson (18) DNF
20. 18 Amanda Stoner (19) DNS
21. 40 Terry Osmond (21) DNS
22. 88x Mikey Granton (22) DNS
23. 13 Mark Saul (23) DNS
24. 00 Robbie General (24) DNS

ESSO MINI-STOCKS
HEAT RACES:
Heat Race #1
1. 37 Rob Hoskins (Harley), 2. 72 Kevin Hilborn (Brantford), 3. 2ez Evan Curtis (Wainfleet), 4. 05 Dave Goodacre (Brantford), 5. 777x Steve Hess (Ohsweken), 6. 55 Rob Slater (Dundas)

Heat Race #2
1. 28 Abel Castelein (Cayuga), 2. 265 Mike Evers (Caledonia), 3. 50 Rick Robinson (Brantford), 4. 02 Mike Taylor (Burlington), 5. 04 Wyatt Van Wart (Cambridge), 6. 27 Dan Stewart (Hamilton)

Heat Race #3
1. 7x Chase Hess (Ohsweken), 2. 10 Mitchell Brown (Brantford), 3. 11 Mike Giberson (Caledonia), 4. 86 Rick Emberson (Paris), 5. 88 Kelly Hallett (Wilsonville), 6. 58 Baden Curtis (Fenwick), 7. 77x Ethan Martin (Ohsweken)

ESSO MINI-STOCKS A-FEATURE (15 laps)
Position. # Name (Starting Position)
1. 10 Mitchell Brown (10)
2. 28 Abel Castelein (9)
3. 72 Kevin Hilborn (8)
4. 37 Rob Hoskins (1)
5. 777x Steve Hess (13)
6. 50 Rick Robinson (12)
7. 265 Mike Evers (6)
8. 2ez Evan Curtis (11)
9. 11 Mike Giberson (3)
10. 7x Chase Hess (7)
11. 02 Mike Taylor (2)
12. 05 Dave Goodacre (5)
13. 58 Baden Curtis (18)
14. 04 Wyatt Van Wart (14)
15. 77x Ethan Martin (19)
16. 88 Kelly Hallett (15) DNF
17. 86 Rick Emberson (4) DNF
18. 27 Dan Stewart (17) DNF
19. 55 Rob Slater (16) DNF

BOMBERS A-FEATURE (20 laps)
Position. # Name (Hometown)
1. 88j Jesse McDonald, 2. 81 Karl Sault (Dundas), 3. 4 Dale Cooke, 4. 26 Dan Patton, 5. 113 Shawn Ireland, 6. 53 Chris Rivers, 7. 13 Kacey Huffman (Hamilton)

NASCAR Canadian Tire Series: Tim Hortons-backed Jeff Lapcevich exits early at St-Eustache

Jeff Lapcevich and the #23 Tim Hortons Chevrolet team had put in many late nights and long hours at the race shop in preparation for round number one of the NASCAR Canadian Tire series this past weekend at the Autodrome St. Eustache just outside Montreal.  During practice and qualifying it appeared they would be rewarded for their hard work.  However the Tim Hortons Chevy was bumped out of the action before the conclusion of the race.

Early in the days activity things went well for the team and they were a consistent top-ten runner.  “Everything went well in practice and qualifying” said Lapcevich.  “We’ve got a new motor program this year, we’ve gone to the NASCAR spec motor and we were pretty solid all day, and pretty happy with where we were.  We had a bit of a popping sound that we heard during qualifying, we’ve had some kind of exhaust leak but it didn’t slow us down at all” he added.

Lapcevich would qualify the #23 Tim Hortons Chevrolet in the eighth starting spot and planned to take things easy in the early going of the 250 lap main event.  That plan would change very quickly.  “We talking about how we’d approach the race on the pace laps” said the driver.  “We just wanted to cruise around for the first half and the car was really good and it’s unfortunate what happened.  We weren’t forcing anything and we’d already moved up a couple of spots and I guess somebody wanted fourth or fifth spot a lot more than I did in the early going and got us turned around” said the disappointed driver.

Now at the back of the field and only one tenth of the way through the race the #23 Tim Hortons team looked to regroup and get back in the fight.  Unfortunately when you’re deep in the field at the flat 4/10ths of a mile track that is Autodrome St. Eustache trouble often finds you.  That was the case with Lapcevich. 

Knowing there was still a long race ahead Jeff was attempting to cautiously move the #23 Tim Hortons Chevrolet forward when there was another incident on the track.  As he attempted to avoid contact the #23 Tim Hortons Chevy was collected and sent spinning hard into the inside wall on the front straightaway ending their night prematurely.  “Everything happens so fast here, we just got caught up in somebody else’s mess and we got the worst of it I guess”. 

It was a disappointing way to end a night that had started out with plenty of promise.  “I feel bad for all the guys that have worked really hard” said Lapcevich.  “There have been a lot of late nights getting ready for this race and I think from the few laps we ran the new spec motor and the car is pretty good” he said enthusiastically.  “I don’t think we showed everything that it’s got but there’s still some work to do and now we’ve got a lot of other work.  The car is hurt worse than it looks right now.  I it appears there is a lot of suspension damage.  But this Tim Hortons team will dig in and we’ll be ready to really show something at the next race in Delaware. He added. 

The 2009 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series continues with round number two at Delaware Speedway near London, Ontario on Saturday, June 6th.  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’s 2009 #23 Tim Hortons Chevrolet // Photo Credit:  Todd Lewis

This release prepared by TL Sports & Entertainment

NASCAR Canadian Tire Series: Kennington's Castrol Dodge Contends for the win, but exits early

May 24, 2009.  DJ Kennington and #17 the Castrol Dodge team were among the quickest cars on the track during round one of the 2009 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series at the Autodrome St. Eustache near Montreal, Quebec this past weekend.  Unfortunately for the Castrol Dodge team an engine bug would keep them from achieving the expected results.

During afternoon practice Kennington would continue to show the pace he’d demonstrated in pre season testing with Castrol Dodge.  DJ would qualify the #17 Avenger on the outside of row one for the 250 lap main event.  Shortly into the race he’d find himself in a much different position.  “I don’t know what happened” said perplexed diver.  “I was just working my way around a lapped car and I guess he misjudged something and that sent us to the back.  Fortunately it didn’t set us back too bad” said the always optimistic driver.

Now back in the pack but still very early in the race Kennington set about moving the #17 Castrol Dodge back into contention.  “The car was really good” said Kennington.  “I knew we had a lot of time left in the race so I just made sure that I kept my nose clean and took my time going forward” he added.  With a little help from several caution flags Kennington would move the Castrol Dodge back into it’s rightful place near the front of the field before the race was even 100 laps old. 

The race would finally have a long green flag run in the second half and the Castrol Dodge was up near the front but began to experience handling difficulty.  “The car started to tighten up a bit as we went on a bit and I had to slow it down” said the driver.  “I just tried to stay smooth and hopefully have something left for the late stages” he added.  Unfortunately Kennington would not get the opportunity to see what he had left.

As Kennington continued to race the #17 Castrol Dodge within the top three, without warning the car suddenly slowed coming out of corner number two and rolled silently to a stop on pit road.  The engine off, their night was over.  The team would be classified 16th at the end.  “I don’t know what happened” said a disappointed driver.  “We might have broken a distributor or something I don’t know, but we’ll get back to the shop and get rid of these gremlins and be ready to go at Delaware” he stated.

Kennington is excited to be racing at Delaware Speedway near London, Ontario again where he cut his racing teeth.  “I’m really looking forward to Delaware and we’ll be fast I guarantee it” he stated emphatically.  “We’ll keep digging to find out what the problem is and we’ll be ready I promise”.  

Round number two of the 2009 NASCAR Canadian Tire series will take place Saturday, June 6th at Delaware Speedway near London, Ontario.  Other events this year will also include events at the Edmonton Indy weekend, the NASCAR weekend in Montreal and new tracks for this season, Auto Clearing Speedway in Saskatoon and Delaware Speedway.  Once again this season each race will be broadcast on TSN. 

Attached Photo Caption:  #17 Castrol Dodge lined up to qualify at St. Eustache 

This release prepared by TL Sports & Entertainment

NASCAR Canadian Tire Series: MOPAR's Beauchamp finishes third at St. Eustache

May 24, 2009.  Ron Beauchamp Jr. and the #60 Mopar Dodge Avenger team came to round number one of the 2009 NASCAR Canadian Tier Series at the Autodrome St. Eustache near Montreal, Quebec with high expectations for success.  After a long grueling off season their hard work and attention to detail were rewarded with a third place finish at the 250 lap race.

The day however was not without adversity.  The #60 Mopar Parts Dodge was not performing to expectations during practice.  Crew Chief Chris Couvillion determined that the team needed a higher gear to achieve the necessary speeds to be successful, and Beauchamp was looking for more grip, especially out of corner four.  After making several changes prior to qualifying the performance improved.  Beauchmap qualified the #60 Avenger sixth quickest.  “We didn’t get what we were expecting right away” said the driver.  “But the team made some changes and we got a decent qualifying run” he added.

A 250 lap race can seem like a lifetime at St. Eustache where things happen quickly and drivers need to be ready for action.  “It was a bit wild out there at times” smiled Beauchamp afterwards.  “I just wanted to get into the race and make sure the changes we’d made worked the way we wanted in the first half of the race, and then if there were any other adjustments needed, we’d make them later on. 

The race proceeded according to plan early on.  A number of early caution periods slowed the field several times before lap 100 and Beauchamp kept the #60 Mopar Parts Dodge up near the front of the field. “It was a bit hard to get a read on the car in the early going, but we appeared to be in good shape and looking to move to the front”.  Beauchamp would take over the lead for the first time on lap 115 and lead on the race on three separate occasions.  “That showed us that we were right there and were in the hunt.

The race would run for an extended period under green flag conditions in the second half and while the #60 Mopar Parts Dodge was fast, the handling was starting to go away.  “During that long green run, the car just tightened up” said the driver.  “We were really good for a while, then I’d have to slow down a bit, let the tires cool down and it would come back, but that long run, it just got too tight.  I had to work the throttle to set the nose of the car through the corners.  If we weren’t that little bit tight the result might have been a little different.  

The race would be extended by nine laps to have a green, white, checker, finish due to a late caution and Beauchamp was in the hunt for the victory but came up just short, settling for a third place podium position, his third podium in the last four races going back to last season.  The entire #60 Mopar Parts Dodge team was thrilled with the result.  “I’m so proud of all the guys on this team” said Beauchamp.  “They all worked so hard over the winter and to get this solid finish to start the season is fantastic.  Personally I’m proud to continue my association with Mopar, Exide and Mobil 1.  During these tough times it’s an honour to be part of they’ve continued to make us part of their Marketing Program and I just want so bad for us to give them the results they deserve for their outstanding support over the years” he added.

The 2009 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series racing season continues with round two at Delaware Speedway near London, Ontario on Saturday June 6th.  Team Mopar will participate in all thirteen events that take place on ovals, road courses and temporary street circuits.  You can follow the action all year long with the television broadcasts on TSN.  You can watch the season opening event on Saturday May 30th at 5:00PM Eastern.  For more information about Team Mopar and Ron Beauchamp Jr. at www.beauchampmotorsports.com and www.nascar.ca. 

Attached photo caption: 1. #60 Mopar Parts Dodge ready to qualify.  2.  Ron Beauchamp Jr. accepts his third place trophy at St. Eustache. // Photo Credit:  Todd Lewis

This release prepared by, TL Sports & Entertainment

Southern Ontario Sprints: 'Batman' bags win at South Buxton

By Tommy Goudge (May 23, 2009) – Six days ago, Adam West found himself upside down and on fire at the Brighton Speedway.  On Saturday night at South Buxton Raceway, West was in a completely opposite situation – visiting victory lane as the winner of the second round of the Southern Ontario Sprints 2009 tour.

Keith Dempster and West paced the field to the green flag on the front row, and it was Dempster getting the early lead and holding it through the first half of the twenty lap feature.  As lapped traffic began to play a role, West began to close in on the Dempster machine, while Ryan Hunsinger was making gains on both of them.

Just after the halfway signal, Dempster spun into the infield while battling in lapped traffic in turn four to bring out the yellow flag.  The Dempster machine was towed pit side, where he reported brake problems were the issue on this night.  Dempster’s spin left West in the lead with Hunsinger in second, and Justin Martin in third.  When the green flag flew once again, West was able to assert his lead and hold off Hunsinger, who was battling a broken wing slider which caused handling problems on the #77x. 

With fifteen laps in the books, Hunsinger was beginning to put pressure on the West machine when suddenly the “Gunslinger” slowed on the backstretch and came to a rest to bring out the final caution of the evening.  A broken driveline ended Hunsinger’s bid for this first feature win of 2009. 

Once again the race restarted, with Glenn Styres now hot on the heels of West.  Styres tried multiple grooves around the track in an effort to get by West in the closing laps, but could not complete a pass.  West held on for the win, followed by Styres, John Riegling, Martin, and Warren Mahoney.

Heat wins were claimed by Justin Martin and Ryan Hunsinger, while the Dash for Cash found Dick Mahoney victorious. 

Making their first appearances in SOS competition in 2009 were John Watson and John Riegling.  Chris Jones was also on hand, but was not able to compete due to engine problems.  Engine problems the night before also caused Jamie Collard to miss the event, dropping him from his fifth place position in the points as a result.

The SOS tour gets back in action on Saturday, June 6 at the Brighton Speedway, and returns for a second visit to South Buxton on Saturday, August 22.

RACE REPORT - Saturday, May 23, 2009
SOUTHERN ONTARIO SPRINTS 2009 SEASON Event #2
South Buxton Raceway - Merlin, Ontario

ENTRIES
0 Glenn Styres - Ohsweken
1a John Riegling - Chatham
5 Keith Dempster - Alton
7m Justin Martin - Shedden
10 Bob Crawford - Sutton
25 Warren Mahoney - Lefroy
26 John Watson - St. Thomas
30 Adam West - Ridgetown
71 Travis Cunningham - Grimsby
77x Ryan Hunsinger - Brantford
79 Dick Mahoney - Newmarket
84 Tyler Rand - Consecon

HEAT RACE #1
(8 laps)
Finish. Number Name (Starting Position)
1. 7m Justin Martin (2)
2. 1a John Riegling (5)
3. 10 Bob Crawford (3)
4. 0 Glenn Styres (4)
5. 71 Travis Cunningham (6)
6. 79 Dick Mahoney (1)

HEAT RACE #2
(8 laps)
Finish. Number Name (Starting Position)
1. 77x Ryan Hunsinger (4)
2. 5 Keith Dempster (1)
3. 30 Adam West (2)
4. 26 John Watson (5)
5. 25 Warren Mahoney (3)
6. 84 Tyler Rand (6)

'A' FEATURE
(20 laps)
Finish. Number Name (Starting Position)
1. 30 Adam West (2)
2. 0 Glenn Styres (7)
3. 1a John Riegling (6)
4. 7m Justin Martin (3)
5. 25 Warren Mahoney (10)
6. 10 Bob Crawford (4)
7. 71 Travis Cunningham (11)
8. 79 Dick Mahoney (9)
9. 84 Tyler Rand (12)
10. 77x Ryan Hunsinger (5)
11. 5 Keith Dempster (1)
12. 26 John Watson (8)

Lap Leaders: Dempster 1-10, West 11-20
Hard Charger: Styres, W. Mahoney (5 positions each)
Caution Flags: 2 (lap 10, lap 15)

UNOFFICIAL TOP 5 IN POINTS AFTER ROUND #2
Rank. Number Name Total (positions gained/lost)
1. 0 Glenn Styres 334 (--)
2. 25 Warren Mahoney 295 (+4)
3. 7m Justin Martin 292 (+5)
4. 77x Ryan Hunsinger 291 (-2)
t5. 10 Bob Crawford 284 (+2)
t5. 30 Adam West 284 (+7)

NEXT SOS EVENT:
Saturday, June 6, 2009 @ Brighton Speedway - Brighton, Ontario
www.BrightonSpeedway.com // www.SouthernOntarioSprints.com

GRAND-AM KONI CHALLENGE: Walker, Kuitwaard Post First KONI Challenge ST Victories for Compass360 Racing

LAKEVILLE, Conn. (May 23, 2009) - Travis Walker passed Ian Baas for the lead with 10 minutes remaining and held on to win Saturday's Grand-Am KONI Sports Car Challenge Street Tuner race at Lime Rock Park, taking the checkered flag under caution. Walker co-drove the No. 75 Skunk2/ Canadianracers.com Honda Civic Si with John Kuitwaard.

It was the first KONI Challenge victory for both drivers. Kuitwaard was making his first start with the team in only his second race in the series. Walker led the final nine of 134 circuits in the two-hour, 30-minute event.

"I knew if I kept the pressure on the Volkswagen, he'd eventually make one little mistake, and when he made that mistake, I jumped on him," Walker said of the winning pass. "I didn't waste the opportunity. I've been here three times before and never even ran a green flag lap - the car dropped out each time before I got in. When I saw the final caution, I thought, 'Thank God. I'm tired. I want this to be over with.' It was a great feeling. I haven't had the best luck in this series, and I finally caught a little good luck at the end."

Baas and Josh Hurley, who earned his first pole positoin earlier in the day, finished second in the No. 171 APR Tuning/Gunther VW Volkswagen GTI. Hurley won his first pole in the series earlier Saturday and led 25 laps early in the event, while Baas led for 54 laps before losing the position to Walker.

The race ended under caution after Matt Pritiko, in the No. 76 Skunk2/ Canadianracers.com HondaCivic Si, and Nick Leverone, in the No. 08 Flatout Motorsports Mazda MX-5, tangled in the downhill turn. Neither driver was injured.

It marked the third victory of the season for Compass360 Racing. Randy Pobst and Christian Miller, who finished fourth in the No. 74 Honda Civic Si, won at Homestead-Miami Speedway and led an unprecedented podium sweep at New Jersey Motorsports Park. Miller added two counters to his point lead over Lawson Aschenbach and Pat Iannucci, who finished fifth in the No. 00 T.T.L Chevrolet Cobalt SS. Miller now leads by eight points (143-135), while Ashley McCalmont moving up to third with 129 points after placing third in the No. 01 Georgian Bay Cobalt co-driven by Jamie Holtom, who rejoined the team after winning the 2008 ST championship in that car.

The final caution was the fourth of the event, with Kuitwaard and Walker averaging 81.123 mph. Paul Della Lena crashed on Lap 5 in the No. 95 Turner Motorsport BMW 328i, while the No. 181 APR Tuning/ BBS Volkswagen GTI of Mike Sweeney and Dion von Moltke twice stopped on course and needed a tow.

Ende Ends Bell's Streak, Captures Pole for Monday's Grand Sport Race

Duncan Ende ran a track record lap of 57.171 seconds (96.343 mph) midway through Saturday's qualifying session to capture the pole for Monday's Grand-Am KONI Sports Car Challenge race at Lime Rock Park.

Ende's first career pole - aboard the TRG No. 39 Digitrust Group/Adams Polishes/Racer's Roast Porsche 997 - ended Matt Bell's record pole-winning streak at three. Bell, driving the No. 96 Turner Motorsports BMW M3, will start on the outside of the front row after running a lap of 57.227 seconds (96.248 mph).

Bryan Sellers will start third after running a lap of 57.380 seconds (95.990 mph) in the No. 77 Maxwell Paper Company Porsche 997. He will be joined on the second row by Jack Roush Jr., who timed at 57.633 (95.570 mph) in the Horsepower Ranch No. 61 Roush/Valvoline Ford Mustang GT.

Roush briefly held the pole early in the session, before being bumped off by Ende.

"I thought the pole time was maybe going to be a 57.3, and I got there," Ende said. "I was happy and somewhat confident, and then Matt Bell ripped off an awesome lap. I had to put my head down and really, really get to it."

After Ende ran his pole-winning lap, Bell, Sellers and Roush each came back with their fastest laps in the 15-minute session - only to fall short.

"Three poles in a row - and almost a fourth - isn't too bad," said Bell, who won poles at Homestead-Miami Speedway, New Jersey Motorsports Park and Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. It was close, but obviously not close enough. We never seem to finish very well when we're on the pole, so this might be a change. Maybe we'll do amazing (now that his three-race pole winning streak is ended)."

Bell and co-driver Bill Auberlen won the opening race of the season, the Fresh From Florida 200, after starting third.

Ende and co-driver Spencer Pumpelly will be seeking their second victory of the season, after winning at New Jersey Motorsports Park. Sellers, co-driving with Daniel DiLeo, and Roush, co-driving with Hugh Plumb, are vying for their first victories this season.

Dean Martin and Ken Wilden, winners of the most recent KONI Challenge race at Mazda Raceway, will start seventh in the No. 59 RehagenRacingProducts.com Ford Mustang GT, while Homestead-Miami Speedway winners Peter Ludwig and Billy Johnson start fifth in the No. 18 Motorsports Technology Group Porsche 997.

Monday's schedule begins with practice at 10:15 a.m. The two and one half hour Lime Rock Classic 250 GS race takes the green flag at 2 p.m.

Next action for the KONI Challenge ST competitors will be June 5 at Watkins Glen International, in conjunction with the Sahlen's Six Hours of The Glen for the Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series presented by Crown Royal Cask No. 16.

From Grand-Am

CARQUEST MARITME PRO STOCK TOUR: Lucas Oil 100 pictures

CARQUEST Maritime Pro Stock Tour
Lucas Oil 100 at Scotia Speedworld
Photos courtesy of Matt Jacques

NASCAR Canadian Tire Series - Whitlock wins opener at St-Eustache

St. Eustache, Que. – Just days after Dave Whitlock announced his retirement effective at the end of the season, he took control of the Tufoil 250 at Autodrome St. Eustache late in the race and survived a green-white-checkered finish to earn his first career NASCAR Canadian Tire Series race.

Whitlock (No. 39 Dickies/NMT Dodge), out of Wyoming, Ont., wrestled the lead from Andrew Ranger (No. 27 Wal-Mart/Tide Ford) on Lap 242 and then held off charges from Kerry Micks (No. 02 Beyond Digital Imaging Ford) and Ron Beauchamp Jr. (No. 60 Mopar/Mobil 1 Dodge).

“It was a lot of fun out there tonight,” said Whitlock. “We haven’t been very good the last couple of years, but we want to go out with a bang.”

Micks finished second, just .244 seconds behind Whitlock. Beauchamp opened the season with a third-place finish after closing out last season on a high note.

Scott Steckly (No. 22 Canadian Tire/Tow Truck in a Box Dodge) opened his title defense with a fourth-place effort. Mark Dilley (No. 9 Dodge/Leland Industries Dodge) shuffled back and forth throughout the race and finished fifth.

Ranger, Jason White, Jason Hathaway, Don Thomson Jr, and Miguel Duhamel rounded out the top 10.

Steckly dominated the early going and led the first 44 laps before being overtaken by Ranger, who waas strong all evening long.

Micks and Ranger staged a vigorous battle for the lead as the race neared the 100-lap mark. Micks was able to take control as Mark Dilley worked past Ranger. Micks opened up a lead of nearly a second on Dilley after the field settled down for some green-flag racing.

Ranger and Kennington both pulled away the rest of the field for nearly 100 laps. Kennington, however, was content to follow Ranger for one of the longer green-flag runs of the evening. Thomson moved past Kennington on Lap 182 and set his sights on Ranger, who had moved out to a lead of over one second. However, when Joey Hanssen spun in Turn 4 on Lap 191, the caution flag waved and Ranger’s lead evaporated.

A Lap 199 restart, set off a three-car battle between Ranger, Thomson and Kennington, but Ranger was able to retain the lead. Kennington quickly dropped out of that skirmish and the race with engine problems leaving Thomson to chase down Ranger.

The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series is back on the track on June 6 for it’s first-ever visit to Delaware (Ont.) Speedway for a 200-lap event.

From NASCAR / Shon Sbarra

NASCAR CANADIAN TIRE SERIES-Tufoil 250 Results
Saturday
At Autodrome St. Eustache
St. Eustache, Que.
Lap length: 0.4 miles
(Start position in parentheses)
1. (11) Dave Whitlock, Petrolia, Ont., Dodge, 259 laps, 48.512 mph, $11,100.
2. (7) Kerry Micks, Mt. Albert, Ont., Ford, 259, $5,200.
3. (6) Ron Beauchamp, Jr., Windsor, Ont., Dodge, 259, $5,600.
4. (1) Scott Steckly, Milverton, Ont., Dodge, 259, $4,500.
5. (5) Mark Dilley, Barrie, Ont., Dodge, 259, $3,000.
6. (3) Andrew Ranger, Roxton Pond, Que., Ford, 259, $2,600.
7. (15) Jason White, Sun Peaks, B.C., Chevrolet, 258, $2,500.
8. (14) Jason Hathaway, Appin, Ont., Dodge, 258, $2,400.
9. (4) Don Thomson, Jr., Ayr, Ont., Chevrolet, 258, $2,300.
10. (12) Miguel Duhamel, LaSalle, Que., Ford, 254, $2,250.
11. (18) Derek White, Kahnawake, Que., Chevrolet, 248, $2,000.
12. (9) Kent Nuhn, Williamsford, Ont., Chevrolet, 243, $1,800.
13. (10) Anthony Simone, Holland Landing, Ont., Chevrolet, 216, $1,700.
14. (16) Andre Coursol, St. Jerome, Que., Chevrolet, 213, $1,650.
15. (17) Joey Hanssen, Venray, Holland, Dodge, 210, $1,600.
16. (2) DJ Kennington, St. Thomas, Ont., Dodge, 203, engine, $1,500.
17. (13) Brad Graham, Glencoe, Ont., Dodge, 120, brakes, $1,450.
18. (19) Dexter Stacey, Chateauquay, Que., Pontiac, 69, $1,400.
19. (8) Jeff Lapcevich, Grimsby, Ont., Chevrolet, 35, accident, $1,350.

Race Statistics
Time of Race: 2 hours 8 minutes 8 seconds
Margin of Victory: .244 seconds
Fastest Qualifier: S.Steckly (83.454 mph, 17.255 seconds)
Caution Flags: 11 for 79 laps.
Lead Changes: 15 among 7 drivers.
Lap Leaders: S. Steckly 1-44; A. Ranger 45-86; K. Micks 87-113; D. Whitlock 114; R. Beauchamp,Jr. 115-118; S. Steckly 119; R. Beauchamp,Jr. 120-130; D. Thomson,Jr. 131; R. Beauchamp,Jr. 132-134; J. White 135-138; A. Ranger 139-234; K. Micks 235; A. Ranger 236-241; D. Whitlock 242-256; R. Beauchamp,Jr. 257; D. Whitlock 258-259.
Standings: 1. D. Whitlock, 185; 2. K. Micks, 175; 3. R. Beauchamp,Jr., 170; 4. S. Steckly, 165; 5. A. Ranger, 160; 6. M. Dilley, 155; 7. J. White, 151; 8. D. Thomson,Jr., 143; 9. J. Hathaway, 142; 10. M. Duhamel, 134.