TORONTO (JULY 11, 2009) – While Conquest Racing is competing on the streets of Toronto, Ontario this weekend, the team will be continuing to build the excitement for another Canadian stop on the 2009 IndyCar Series schedule. The team is once again sporting the logo of the upcoming Rexall Edmonton Indy on the sidepods of the #34 Conquest machine.
“It’s always with great pleasure that we continue our partnership with Northlands and the Rexall Edmonton Indy,” stated Eric Bachelart, Conquest Racing team owner. “It’s very exciting to be partnering with one of Canada’s best open-wheel racing events. The Rexall Edmonton Indy has become a premiere event on the IndyCar Series schedule and we’re proud to be associated with them.”
The Rexall Edmonton Indy runs from July 24-26, 2009, at the City Centre Airport in Edmonton, Alberta. Tickets are available now at all Ticketmaster outlets, or online at www.ticketmaster.ca. For more information on the Rexall Edmonton Indy, log onto www.edmontonindy.com.
From Conquest Racing
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Conquest Racing Continues to Partner with Rexall Edmonton Indy
Lucas Oil Canadian DIRT Challenge: The Lucas Oil Canadian DIRT Challenge heads to Autodrome Granby and Drummond for a doubleheader
The Lucas Oil Canadian DIRT Challenge heads to Autodrome Granby and Drummond for a doubleheader!
Cornwall, On – Saturday, July 11, 2009 – Martin Bélanger – After exactly 2 months of break, the Lucas Oil Canadian DIRT Challenge heads to Autodrome Granby on Friday July 17 and Autodrome Drummond on Saturday, July 18 for a spectacular doubleheader with both feature having a 100-lap distance paying a nice $3,000 to the winner and with over $20,000 in purse!
After a few bad lucks with Mother Nature in the last few years, Granby will try to host their event on their initial schedule date. A great field of car is expected to be there with them having an average of nearly 30 cars weekly. The largest track on the tour at 5/8 mile, great speedway will be obtained during the feature race sponsored buy Les Pneus Robert Bernard. In 2008, Mario Clair had won this event after great battles with Kayle Robidoux and David Hébert.
The series will then move to Autodrome Drummond, where over 40 cars showed up last year for their event. A similar field of the greatest modified drivers in Quebec and Eastern Ontario should be on hand for the finale presented by Hyundai Drummond; David Hébert had won the feature in great fashion to pave the way for his second series title in 3 years. The two races in the province of Quebec will set the pace in the series point's chase as good results at these two facilities will be important.
One race is already in the books as Cornwall Motor Speedway was the host of the initial series race in May. A total of 48 cars showed up for the event. Danny O'Brien had won the feature over David Hébert and Mario Clair, Martin Roy and Clément Therrien rounded out the top 5.
The competitors that will take part in all events will be eligible to win a Bicknell Chassis body and bumper valued at $8,400. Many sponsors such as Bicknell Racing Products, Doiron Racing Engines, Bert Transmission, Mr Radiator, Trick Race Parts, Kirkey Racing et Total Race Supply contributed to this car. A draw between all drivers that competed in 100% of the series race will be done at the end of the 7 races.
OHSWEKEN: Huppunen, Dinning, Brown and Rutherford mid-season champs
By Tommy Goudge (July 10, 2009) – A wild evening of racing ensued at Ohsweken Speedway in the Mid-Season Championship event presented by Wiseco Performance and Evers Financial Group. When the checkered flag fell, three familiar faces and two new ones had visited Engine Pro Winner’s Circle, while the rest will try again next week when Christmas in July comes to Ohsweken featuring a toy drive, visit from Santa, and autograph night, along with the Southern Ontario Sprints Tour and a regular card of racing!
In Corr/Pak Merchandising Sprint Car action, Mikey Kruchka and Jamie Collard led the field to the green flag, but the red flag quickly came out for a hard crash involving Dain Naida in turn two. Naida was shaken up and made a trip to the hospital, but was released and back at the track later in the evening. Also involved in the incident were Keith Dempster, Stan Zanchin, and John Burbridge, Jr. who took their cars to the pits for repairs, but would return, albeit at the back of the pack.
Back under green flag conditions again, Collard took the early lead and began to stretch out his advantage, while Kruchka and teammate Kevin Loveys battled for the runner-up spot. Behind them, division points leader Tom Huppunen was making a beeline to the front after starting thirteenth. Another red flag came out on lap five when Wayne Ashton’s car tipped over on the front stretch, and Adam West took his car to the infield with broken steering.
Back to green again, Huppunen had made his way to fifth. With eight laps in the books, Kevin Job and Huppunen both got by Loveys, while behind them Glenn Styres had moved into seventh after starting eighteenth. Huppunen then made his way around Job on lap twelve and looked to put the pressure on Kruchka, who was in turn trying to get by Collard for the race lead.
On lap fourteen, Kruchka made his move, blasting by Collard on the outside while Huppunen got by for the runner-up spot three laps later. Huppunen wasted little time after that, passing Kruchka for the lead on lap nineteen and driving away for his fifth feature win of the season. Kruchka kept the second spot, while Collard hung on for third, followed by Styres and Keith Dempster in fifth. Heat races for the twenty-two Corr/Pak Merchandising Sprint Cars were claimed by Kevin Job, Travis Cunningham, and Keith Dempster.
The ESSO Thunder Stocks got their twenty-five lap feature underway with Kyle Magrin and Mike Thorne on the front row, and it was Thorne getting the lead. Jamie Cox and a host of others were on the move, however, and Thorne began to drop through the pack as the race wore on. Cox took over the lead, but was feeling pressure from Ryan Dinning on the outside. Midway through the race, Cox got loose coming out of turn four and Dinning made contact with Cox’s #44. Cox spun out of the lead, but got his car going again to keep the green flag out. Dinning held the lead through a couple of late race cautions to come home with the feature win, his first in the Thunder Stock division, while Brad Herron, Jeremy Bean, Shayne Pierce, and Billy Bleich, Jr. rounded out the top five. Heat races for the seventeen ESSO Thunder Stocks were won by Herron and Dinning.
ESSO Mini Stocks action began with Paul Goodale and Cam Hill on the front row, with Goodale taking a lead he would hold through much of the twenty lap event…that is until Mitchell Brown once again showed up at the front of the pack. Brown, Abel Castelein, and Trevor Goulding all looked to be contenders for the feature win, but it was Brown coming out of the battle with the lead late in the event, while Castelein, Goodale, Goulding, and Mike Taylor would come home in the top five. Heat races for the twenty-four ESSO Mini Stocks in attendance were claimed by Castelein, Goodale, and Steve Hess.
Vintage Cars made an appearance, bringing eleven fine-looking machines including Illinois driver Phil Claussen. Claussen started at the tail of the ten lap feature, but had no intention of staying there and quickly made his way to the front, where three wide action ensued. Claussen got by the #6 of Lowry Siemens and drove away with the win, while Siemens finished second. Claussen also won the heat race for the vintage cars.
A wild Bomber feature that began with Adam Riedel leading much of the race ended with Rodney Rutherford taking his second win of the season, while Riedel settled for second followed by Jesse McDonald, Kacey Huffman, and Karl Sault.
Friday Night Thunder resumes on Friday, July 17 when Gales Auto Aftermarket presents Christmas in July with the Southern Ontario Sprints Tour, along with the ESSO Thunder Stocks, ESSO Mini-Stocks, and Bombers, plus Autograph Night and a visit from Santa! Friday Night Thunder at Ohsweken Speedway offers affordable family entertainment just a short drive away from most mid-western Ontario locations. Friday Night Thunder Adult General Admission for this special event is just $15, while Seniors and Students are $8, and kids 12 and under are FREE! Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Christmas in July toy drive and receive $5 off Adult admission or $2 off Seniors/Students admission. Please visit www.OhswekenSpeedway.com for more information. On Friday night, gates open at 6:00p.m., with the first race at 7:45p.m.
FRIDAY NIGHT THUNDER 2009
ROUND 9 RACE REPORT – July 10, 2009
OHSWEKEN SPEEDWAY
OHSWEKEN, ONTARIO
EVENT SPONSORS – WISECO PERFORMANCE AND EVERS FINANCIAL GROUP
CORR/PAK MERCHANDISING SPRINT CARS
HEAT RACES (Top 5 Transfer To A-Feature, Top 4 Redraw for Feature Starting Spots):
BS&B RADIATOR Heat Race #1
1. 21x Kevin Job (Campbellville), 2. 30 Adam West (Ridgetown), 3. 94 Stan Zanchin (Fort Erie), 4. 5d Dave Dykstra (Port Colborne), 5. 12c Tom Huppunen (Fenwick), 6. 57 Doug Bowman (London), 7. 01m Jason Martin (Shedden). Time – 1:54.954
BEST WESTERN CAIRN CROFT HOTEL Heat Race #2
1. 71 Travis Cunningham (Grimsby), 2. 21j John Burbridge, Jr. (Simcoe), 3. 6n Dain Naida (Belleville, MI), 4. 01 Mikey Kruchka (Hamilton), 5. 90 James Evans (Beamsville), 6. 67 Chris Durand (Port Stanley), 7. 77x Ryan Hunsinger (Brantford) DNF. No Time
GRISDALE RACING PRODUCTS Heat Race #3
1. 5 Keith Dempster (Alton), 2. 18 Kevin Loveys (Hamilton), 3. 3 Wayne Ashton (Kitchener), 4. 27 Jamie Collard (Burford), 5. 14h Jim Huppunen (Fenwick), 6. 0 Glenn Styres (Ohsweken), 7. 23 Steve Garry (Dundas), 8. 84 Tyler Rand (Consecon) DNS. Time – 1:52.840
CORR/PAK MERCHANDISING
SPRINT CAR FEATURE (25 laps)
Position. # Name (Starting Position)
1. 12c Tom Huppunen (13)
2. 01 Mikey Kruchka (1)
3. 27 Jamie Collard (2)
4. 0 Glenn Styres (18)
5. 5 Keith Dempster (10)
6. 21x Kevin Job (11)
7. 5d Dave Dykstra (9)
8. 18 Kevin Loveys (4)
9. 71 Travis Cunningham (8)
10. 90 James Evans (14)
11. 94 Stan Zanchin (6)
12. 57 Doug Bowman (16)
13. 14h Jim Huppunen (15)
14. 21j John Burbridge, Jr. (12)
15. 67 Chris Durand (17)
16. 84 Tyler Rand (22)
17. 23 Steve Garry (21) DNF
18. 01m Jason Martin (19) DNF
19. 3 Wayne Ashton (5) DNF
20. 30 Adam West (7) DNF
21. 6n Dain Naida (3) DNF
22. 77x Ryan Hunsinger (20) DNS
No Time
ESSO THUNDER STOCKS
HEAT RACES:
Heat Race #1
1. 12 Brad Herron (Brantford), 2. 24k Kyle Magrin (Hamilton), 3. 55 Mike Thorne (Caledonia), 4. 4k Kevin Knapp (St. Catharines), 5. 83 Lee Winger (Caledonia), 6. 108jr Billy Bleich, Jr. (Port Robinson), 7. 17 Rob Disher (Grimsby), 8. 40 Terry Osmond (Cambridge) DNF
Heat Race #2
1. 8 Ryan Dinning (Caledonia), 2. 88 Shayne Pierce (Wainfleet), 3. 37 Jeremy Bean (Stoney Creek), 4. 44 Jamie Cox (Cambridge), 5. 13 Mark Thorne (Waterford), 6. 1 Chris Dickie (Brantford), 7. 11 Mike Azzopardi, 8. 18 Amanda Stoner (Mount Hope), 9. 98 Brad Bacher (Hagersville)
ESSO THUNDER STOCKS A-FEATURE (25 laps)
Position. # Name (Starting Position)
1. 8 Ryan Dinning (3)
2. 12 Brad Herron (5)
3. 37 Jeremy Bean (7)
4. 88 Shayne Pierce (6)
5. 108jr Billy Bleich, Jr. (11)
6. 55 Mike Thorne (2)
7. 98 Brad Bacher (16)
8. 44 Jamie Cox (4)
9. 83 Lee Winger (9)
10. 17 Rob Disher (13)
11. 1 Chris Dickie (12)
12. 4k Kevin Knapp (8)
13. 13 Mark Thorne (10) DNF
14. 18 Amanda Stoner (15) DNF
15. 24k Kyle Magrin (1) DNF
16. 11 Mike Azzopardi (14) DNF
17. 40 Terry Osmond (17) DNS
ESSO MINI-STOCKS
HEAT RACES:
Heat Race #1
1. 28 Abel Castelein (Cayuga), 2. 265 Mike Evers (Caledonia), 3. 88 Drew Spencer (Oakville), 4. 72 Kevin Hilborn (Brantford), 5. 7x Chase Hess (Ohsweken), 6. 113 Mark Maidment (Jarvis), 7. 31 Dave Bailey (Hagersville), 8. 55 Kevin Slater (Dundas)
Heat Race #2
1. 14 Paul Goodale, 2. 6 Trevor Goulding (Welland), 3. 10 Mitchell Brown (Brantford), 4. 86 Rick Emberson (Paris), 5. 27 Dan Stewart (Hamilton), 6. 04 Wyatt Van Wart (Cambridge), 7. 50 Rick Robinson (Brantford), 8. 9 Jonathan Ayrton (Hamilton)
Heat Race #3
1. 777x Steve Hess (Ohsweken), 2. 397 Cam Hill (Ohsweken), 3. 11 Mike Giberson (Caledonia), 4. 02 Mike Taylor (Burlington), 5. 05 Dave Goodacre (Brantford), 6. 77x Ethan Martin (Ohsweken), 7. 39 Jim Cochrane (Drumbo), 8. 01 Mark Da Silva
ESSO MINI-STOCKS A-FEATURE (20 laps)
PRESENTED BY EVERS FINANCIAL GROUP
Position. # Name (Starting Position)
1. 10 Mitchell Brown (11)
2. 28 Abel Castelein (10)
3. 14 Paul Goodale (1)
4. 6 Trevor Goulding (12)
5. 02 Mike Taylor (9)
6. 72 Kevin Hilborn (8)
7. 86 Rick Emberson (5)
8. 265 Mike Evers (6)
9. 31 Dave Bailey (23)
10. 50 Rick Robinson (17)
11. 05 Dave Goodacre (14)
12. 11 Mike Giberson (4)
13. 04 Wyatt Van Wart (15)
14. 77x Ethan Martin (16)
15. 27 Dan Stewart (13)
16. 9 Jonathan Ayrton (19)
17. 113 Mark Maidment (22)
18. 01 Mark Da Silva (20)
19. 39 Jim Cochrane (18)
20. 88 Drew Spencer (3)
21. 777x Steve Hess (7) DNF
22. 397 Cam Hill (2) DNF
23. 7x Chase Hess (21) DNF
24. 55 Kevin Slater (24) DNS
VINTAGE CARS
HEAT RACE (8 Laps)
1. 9c Phil Claussen (Oakbrook, IL), 2. 00 Bill Harju (Fisherville), 3. 6 Lowry Siemens (Dunnville), 4. 24 Harold Sonnenburg (Sherkston), 5. #37, 6. 50 Bob Leguee (Chatham), 7. 4 Charles Voit (Buffalo, NY), 8. 69 Mike Leguee (Chatham), 9. 16 Daryl Bray (Rainham Centre), 10. 400 Jim Atkins (Smithville), 11. 12 Ken Kapp
VINTAGE CARS FEATURE (10 laps)
1. 9c Phil Claussen (11), 2. 6 Lowry Siemens (9), 3. #37 (7), 4. 00 Bill Harju (10), 5. 16 Daryl Bray (3), 6. 24 Harold Sonnenburg (8), 7. 400 Jim Atkins (2), 8. 50 Bob Leguee (6), 9. 4 Charles Voit (5), 10. 69 Mike Leguee (11) DNF, 11. 12 Ken Kapp DNS
BOMBERS A-FEATURE (25 laps)
Position. # Name (Hometown)
1. 03 Rodney Rutherford (Waterdown), 2. 113 Adam Reidel (Burlington), 3. 88j Jesse McDonald (Caledonia), 4. 13 Kacey Huffman (Hamilton), 5. 81 Karl Sault (Dundas), 6. 13c Brittany Gyorky, 7. 15 Brad McCarten
UP NEXT @ OHSWEKEN SPEEDWAY
FRIDAY, JULY 17, 2009
GALES AUTO AFTERMARKET PRESENTS:
“CHRISTMAS IN JULY” WITH THE SOUTHERN ONTARIO SPRINTS TOUR
PLUS ESSO THUNDER STOCKS, ESSO MINI-STOCKS, AND BOMBERS
ADULTS $15, SENIORS AND STUDENTS $8, KIDS 12 AND UNDER FREE!
BRING A NEW, UNWRAPPED TOY AND GET $5 OFF ADULT ADMISSION
OR $2 OFF SENIORS/STUDENTS ADMISSION
SPECTATOR GATES OPEN @ 6:00 P.M., RACING @ 7:45 P.M.
Honda Indy Toronto starting lineup
TORONTO - Qualifying Saturday for the Honda Indy Toronto IndyCar Series event on the 1.755-mile Streets of Toronto, with starting position, car number in parentheses, driver, chassis-engine, time and speed in parentheses:
1. (10) Dario Franchitti, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.0249 (103.532)
2. (12) Will Power, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.2851 (103.092)
3. (02) Graham Rahal, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.3301 (103.016)
4. (18) Justin Wilson, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.5157 (102.705)
5. (34) Alex Tagliani, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.6980 (102.402)
6. (24) Mike Conway, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.0090 (101.888)
7. (06) Robert Doornbos, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.4419 (102.829)
8. (9) Scott Dixon, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.4718 (102.779)
9. (2) Raphael Matos, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.5348 (102.674)
10. (3) Helio Castroneves, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.7954 (102.241)
11. (6) Ryan Briscoe, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.8575 (102.138)
12. (14) Ryan Hunter-Reay, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.9680 (101.956)
13. (5) Mario Moraes, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.9704 (101.952)
14. (23) Tomas Scheckter, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.8681 (102.120)
15. (15) Paul Tracy, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.9730 (101.948)
16. (13) E.J. Viso, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.1577 (101.645)
17. (26) Marco Andretti, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.2138 (101.553)
18. (7) Danica Patrick, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.5839 (100.952)
19. (20) Ed Carpenter, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.5907 (100.942)
20. (11) Tony Kanaan, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.6556 (100.837)
21. (4) Dan Wheldon, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.8411 (100.539)
22. (27) Hideki Mutoh, Dallara-Honda, 1:03.0413 (100.220)
23. (98) Richard Antinucci, Dallara-Honda, 1:04.5132 (97.933)
South Buxton Raceway... Rainout tonight
Next Saturday (July 18), South Buxton hosts the Southwestern Ontario Tractor Pullers Association TRactor Pull, starting at 7 p.m.
Stock car racing resumes Saturday, July 25.
For more information, please contact Mike Bennett (519-351-4765)
NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Mobil 1 - Tide 250 Postponed To Sunday
Villeneuve Debut To Wait A Day
SAINT EUSTACHE, Que. - A large weather system moved into the area at midday, with no relief in sight, and forced the postponement of the Tide 250 at Autodrome St. Eustache. The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Mobil 1 event is set to take the green flag at 2 p.m. ET Sunday afternoon.
The weather system is expected to bring high winds and heavy rain later this afternoon. It is, however, forecast to clear the area overnight. Sunday's forecast calls for clear skies, no chance of precipitation and mild temperatures.
The schedule for Sunday has practice slated for 10 a.m. with time trials shortly thereafter. Spectator gates will open at 7 a.m.
In the Tide 250, former Formula One world champion and Indy 500 winner Jacques Villeneuve will make his NASCAR Canadian Tire Series debut.
For additional information, contact:
Shon Sbarra
Media Coordinator, Touring Series Canada | NASCAR
Cell: (704) 309-5493 | E-Mail: ssbarra@nascar.com
Friday, July 10, 2009
Honda Indy Toronto practice results (Friday)
TORONTO - Practice Friday for the Honda Indy Toronto IndyCar Series event on the 1.755-mile Streets of Toronto, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, chassis-engine, time and speed in parentheses:
1. (2) Raphael Matos, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.4739 (102.775)
2. (18) Justin Wilson, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.7627 (102.295)
3. (12) Will Power, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.7722 (102.279)
4. (06) Robert Doornbos, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.8386 (102.169)
5. (6) Ryan Briscoe, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.8420 (102.164)
6. (10) Dario Franchitti, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.9237 (102.029)
7. (3) Helio Castroneves, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.9364 (102.008)
8. (9) Scott Dixon, Dallara-Honda, 1:01.9617 (101.966)
9. (02) Graham Rahal, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.0027 (101.899)
10. (11) Tony Kanaan, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.0044 (101.896)
11. (24) Mike Conway, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.1916 (101.589)
12. (23) Tomas Scheckter, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.3048 (101.405)
13. (15) Paul Tracy, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.3653 (101.306)
14. (14) Ryan Hunter-Reay, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.4745 (101.129)
15. (26) Marco Andretti, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.5434 (101.018)
16. (5) Mario Moraes, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.6133 (100.905)
17. (34) Alex Tagliani, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.6923 (100.778)
18. (13) E.J. Viso, Dallara-Honda, 1:02.7758 (100.644)
19. (27) Hideki Mutoh, Dallara-Honda, 1:03.3323 (99.760)
20. (4) Dan Wheldon, Dallara-Honda, 1:03.4514 (99.572)
21. (98) Richard Antinucci, Dallara-Honda, 1:03.9239 (98.836)
22. (7) Danica Patrick, Dallara-Honda, 1:03.9279 (98.830)
23. (20) Ed Carpenter, Dallara-Honda, 1:04.7355 (97.597)
NASCAR Canadian Tire Series: Jacques Villeneuve test and press conference at Autodrome St-Eustache
These photos are from Thursday's press conference and test session at Autodrome St-Eustache featuring Jacques Villeneuve, who will be racing in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series race at the Montreal-area oval on Saturday night (weather permitting).
Thank you to Jim Leggett of CanadianRacers.com for sharing his work.
Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship: Hype Energy and JL Racing
JL Racing partners with Hype Energy
JL Racing announced today a partnership agreement with Hype Energy. JL Racing will carry the Hype Energy logo on the #92 2005 Saab 93 Sport Sedan driven by P.J. Groenke in the Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship at the Honda Indy Toronto and the GP3R in Trois Rivieres. Hype Energy will also adorn the #93 2008 Saab 93 Sport Sedan of John Lockhart which will debut later this season.
“I am so excited about this opportunity to partner with Hype Energy”, said John Lockhart, Team Principal and Driver for JL Racing, “Hype Energy is a leader in the energy drink industry with a very strong presence in motorsports which has really enhanced its brand. We are honored to be chosen as a partner to help expand Hype’s market share and brand awareness.
Upon finalizing this partnership, Jon Silver the company president made the following statement, "Having just agreed to become involved with the JL Racing Team, we here at Les Aliments Unique Foods (which distributes HYPE Energy drinks across Canada) could not be more pleased with this opportunity and the multi-level exposure we expect to receive by working with such a talented group of individuals, as an on going part of our corporate marketing strategy."
Look for the JL Racing Saab 93s and the Hype Energy Crew at events during the Honda Indy Toronto and GP3R in Trois Rivieres for the 2009 season. Plans are being put into motion for a full season program in 2010.
About JL Racing: JL Racing is one of Canada's premier sport sedan racing teams. In 2006, JL Racing formed a partnership with Saab Canada to race and showcase Canada's only Saab 93 race cars. The team has made headlines several times with a first race, first place finish and subsequent podium finishes in the Saab 93.
For more information: www.jlracing.net.
Media Contact: Phil Reilly – JL Racing // info@jlracing.net // 416 503 8086
For more information on the upcoming events please visit the following websites:
Toronto Indy: (http://www.hondaindytoronto.com/Weekend_Schedule.html)
Grand Prix de Trois-Rivieres: (http://www.gp3r.com/canadian-touring.html)
About Hype Energy: To Learn more about Les Aliments Unique Food and HYPE Energy Drinks Canada visit us at www.drinkhype.ca or www.uniquefoodscanada.ca. Mr. Jon Silver ~ President // Les Aliments Unique Food / HYPE Energy Drinks Canada // Tel: (514)343-4973 / Web: www.drinkhype.ca / www.uniquefoodscanada.ca
________________________________
From: John Lockhart [mailto:john.lockhart@sympatico.ca]
Sent: Thursday, July 09, 2009 9:26 PM
To: john_lockhart
Cc: Damon Sharpe; dsharpe
Subject: Hype Energy and JL Racing
We are "Hyped" to partner with Hype Energy!
Thanks, JL
John Lockhart
JL Racing
www.jlracing.net
905-586-1060
About JL Racing
JL Racing is one of Canada's premier sport sedan racing teams. Formed
in 2000, the team competes in top-rate, competitive,
professional racing. In 2006, JL Racing formed a partnership with Saab
Canada to race and showcase Canada's only Saab 9-3 race car. The team
has made headlines several times with first race, first place finish
and subsequent podium finishes in the Saab 9-3.
Jacques Villeneuve will race in two events in South America
VILLENEUVE WILL RACE TWO EVENTS IN SOUTH AMERICA
The former Formula 1 Champion returns to the Top Race Series in which he raced last year. Villeneuve will drive at Sao Paulo on July 19, and Buenos Aires on September 20. In the meantime, he hopes to return to Formula 1 in 2010.
"Hopefully I can come back next year," said Jacques Villeneuve during the closing of his last press conference in Buenos Aires, back in September 28, 2008. The Race of the Year had just ended and the Canadian driver was pleased with his great performance in his first experience at the Top Race Series.
Finally, the desire will become true, because Villeneuve will again be part of the show. He will be one of the 41 drivers traveling to Brazil where he will race the first date of the Winter Rosamontes’ Stage at the mythical Interlagos racetrack – in a weekend in which they will share the track with the Formula Truck, and the following month he will take part in the second edition of The Race of the Year in Buenos Aires.
"After last year's experience is a pleasure to drive again at the Top Race. It was a very fun experience and I had a great time both on and off the car. For this year’s race there are a couple of things I should take advantage of: I know the cars and the two racetracks in which we are20going to race. I won at both venues, Interlagos and Buenos Aires during my time in Formula 1. It is not going to be easy to get those results at the Top Race Series because the drivers I am racing against have many more miles on board of those cars than I do. But at least, I will try,” said Villeneuve.
Villeneuve raced the first edition of The Race of the Year in Buenos Aires driving a Passat TRV6, which finished 26 overall after the qualifying race in which he got the 13 place. While looking to define his future -which could be linked to Formula 1, Villeneuve confirmed that he will return to the Top Race to compete at two of the 2009 dates, Interlagos and Buenos Aires.
"I am excited about the possibility of getting back to Formula 1 next year. I estimate that in the coming days I will have a definition in this regard. I have already made a commitment to the Top Race events and there is no chance that anything will interfere with my travel to Brazil and Argentina,” he added.
Worth the reminder, Villeneuve won the Formula 1 races at Sao Paulo and Buenos Aires during the season in which he got the World Championship title, 1997, and those are the same racetracks in which he will be driving the Mercedes TRV6 Top Race.
Villeneuve will be part of the Top Race group traveling to Brazil and will take part in al l programmed functions like the visit to the final resting place of the legendary Ayrton Senna.
From Niky Pauli / Media Racing / www.mediaracing.com
INDYCAR: Sears Canada/CRAFTSMAN, Hyatt Regency Toronto on King and The Keg to partner with Conquest Racing and Alex Tagliani in T.O.
Sears Canada/CRAFTSMAN®, Hyatt Regency Toronto on King and The Keg Steakhouse and Bar to Partner with Conquest Racing and Alex Tagliani in Toronto
TORONTO (July 10, 2009) – Conquest Racing announced today the addition of three partners for this weekend’s Honda Indy Toronto. Sears/CRAFTSMAN, the Hyatt Regency Toronto on King and The Keg Steakhouse and Bar will be featured on the #34 car driven by Canadian Alex Tagliani.
“It’s with great pleasure that we welcome Sears/CRAFTSMAN, the Hyatt Regency Toronto and The Keg Steakhouse and Bar to the team,” said Conquest Racing team owner Eric Bachelart. “It’s an honor to be associated with such great companies at one of the best events of the season.”
No retailer in Canada is more trusted than Sears Canada. With 122 department stores across the country, Sears offers a broad range of merchandise from apparel and home fashions to appliances and home improvement items, including a broad range of merchandise under the CRAFTSMAN brand including mechanics tools and portable electric tools.
"We are pleased to have Conquest Racing and Alex Tagliani showcasing the Sears and CRAFTSMAN brands at the 2009 Honda Indy Toronto,” said Doug Piett, Divisional Vice-President Sales Planning, Promotion & Production, Sears Canada Inc. “The CRAFTSMAN brand stands for trust, quality and reliability and is a proven winner with our customers much like Alex is with his racing fans. Sears wishes Alex all the best in Sunday’s big race.”
In addition to Sears/CRAFTSMAN, Conquest Racing is also welcoming the Hyatt Regency Toronto on King Street to their family of sponsors for this weekend’s race. The Hyatt Regency is located in the center of Toronto’s vibrant downtown. Fresh from a multi-million dollar renovation, the sparkling new Toronto downtown hotel showcases 394 guestrooms, including 32 suites and a VIP Floor.
“We are very excited to join the Conquest Racing Team and Alex Tagliani during this World Class event in Toronto," stated Celso Thompson of the Hyatt Regency Toronto on King. "Alex's relationship with the Canadian media giant, Canoe.ca is a fantastic way for us to spread the word that with the stunning renovations complete, the new Hyatt Regency on King is one of the top properties in all of Toronto".
Finally, Conquest Racing can also count on the support of The Keg Steakhouse and Bar for this weekend’s Honda Indy Toronto. Known for its great Keg steak, The Keg is Canada’s number-one steakhouse and has more than 100 locations across North America each offering a truly comfortable and satisfying dining atmosphere accompanied by a fun and casual bar setting.
“The Keg has been a Canadian success story since established in 1971 in Vancouver, B.C.,” said Jim Croteau, COO Keg Restaurants Ltd. “And we wish Conquest Racing and Alex their own great success in the Indy on Sunday.”
Jim Freudenberg of the Rubicon Sports agency added: “Special thanks to Ryan McCallum for his help with bringing some great new sponsors to the team for the Toronto event. Sears/CRAFTSMAN, the Hyatt Regency Toronto on King and The Keg Steakhouse and Bar have history with Canadian motorsports and their support of Alex and Conquest Racing is greatly appreciated."
Tagliani and the Conquest Racing team will be on track starting today at 10:10 a.m. for the first practice session. The Honda Indy Toronto takes place Sunday, July 12 and will be broadcast live on ABC, and on TSN in Canada, starting at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
From Conquest Racing
Thursday, July 09, 2009
NASCAR Canadian Tire Series: Mobil 1 Partners with Canadian Tire And NASCAR
MOBIL 1 PARTNERS WITH CANADIAN TIRE AND NASCAR...
Company Adds Presenting Sponsorship To NASCAR Portfolio
TORONTO (July 9, 2009) – Canadian Tire Corporation and the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) announced today that Mobil 1, the world’s leading synthetic motor oil, has become the presenting sponsor for the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series.
The series is now officially called the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Mobil 1.
The involvement in NASCAR by Mobil 1 is long and storied. It stretches from the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series all the way through the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series. Mobil 1 has been a key ingredient in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series since its inception in 2007.
“We welcome Mobil 1 as the presenting sponsor of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series,” said George Silbermann, Managing Director of Racing Operations for NASCAR. “Mobil 1 has been a participant at all levels of NASCAR racing, both in Canada and in the U.S., and this new role with the premier Canadian stock-car series furthers their strong presence in the sport.”
Canadian Tire, Canada’s largest automotive retailer, and Mobil 1, the world’s leading synthetic motor oil, have a long-standing relationship, as well. The two are teaming up in the ‘Hear The Roar’ contest in which a 2009 Chevrolet Corvette will be awarded to a Canadian Tire customer who purchased a specially-marked Mobil 1 or Mobil Super product. The final draw for the new car will be held in conjunction with the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Mobil 1 race on Sept. 12 at Barrie (Ont.) Speedway.
“Mobil 1 shares our passion for motorsports and our continued focus on bringing innovative automotive products to market” said Tony Kuczynski, vice president, automotive, Canadian Tire. ‘We are excited to welcome Mobil 1 as presenting sponsor of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series and look forward to working together to bring the excitement of the series to race fans across the country.”
The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Mobil 1 has a 13-race schedule in 2009 and competes on both oval tracks and road courses across Canada. It will visit 12 tracks, this season, covering six provinces—Alberta, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec and Saskatchewan.
For additional information, contact: Lisa Gibson, Canadian Tire Corporation, (416) 544-7655, lisa.gibson@cantire.com // From Shon Sbarra, NASCAR Public Relations, (704) 309-5493, ssbarra@nascar.com
IHRA: King of Canada: Atchison, Noakes square off in clash of Canada's best AFC drivers
A trip to Grand Bend wouldn’t be complete without the storied rivalry between two of London, Ontario’s best going head to head at nearly 250 miles per hour on the quarter mile.
And that is exactly what drag racing fans are going to get when the IHRA returns to Ontario for the MOPAR Canadian Nationals July 17-19 at the Grand Bend Motorplex.
Rob Atchison and Paul Noakes, both London residents, will join recent additions Larry Dobbs and Jason McKnight in a weekend long grudge match to determine who truly is the King of Canada in Alcohol Funny Car.
“I have loved watching these guys compete ever since we opened the track 14 years ago and it wouldn’t seem right not to have them here,” said track owner Paul Spriet. “We knew we had to do something to showcase these amazing drivers. We also wanted to do something for the fans as this is the only time they get to see these guys race so close to home.”
Atchison, a three-time IHRA Alcohol Funny Car world champion, and Noakes, last year’s AFC runner-up and a two-time MOPAR Canadian Nationals winner, will go head-to-head all weekend long in a clash of Canada’s best in Alcohol Funny Car.
“It should be a lot of fun. It is definitely a different concept than we have ever done before where we have always in the past been racing for points and this time we get a chance to let our guard down and have a little more fun and just try to take home the title as King of Canada,” Atchison said.
Atchison is a three-time IHRA world champion, winning all three titles consecutively in 2003, 2004 and 2005. He also has 20 wins – second all-time – and 15 runner-up finishes over the course of his highly successful IHRA career.
“I got my first win here, I qualified No. 1 for the first time here so this has always been a special place for us,” Atchison said. “And this will be the first time I have run here in Ontario all year and maybe the only time.
“It is going to be great to be able to go out there and do a nice smoky burnout and get the entire crowd on their feet and put on a good show for them all.”
Noakes hasn’t had quite the numbers as Atchison, but that hasn’t stopped him from garnering plenty of attention himself. Noakes has been gradually climbing the Alcohol Funny Car ladder culminating with a runner-up finish in points last season, finishing one spot ahead of Atchison.
Noakes also has six wins and six runner-up finishes over the course of his career including a pair of wins at his home track in Grand Bend.
“We are really the excited. We have been testing up here and are looking forward to it,” Noakes said. “This is our local track so we will have a lot of people up here yelling and screaming for us.
“There is a lot of passion, a lot of history that goes back a long way at Grand Bend racing with the Noakes family. I really have a lot of ownership with that place.”
With the addition of Dobbs and McKnight, the Alcohol Funny Car field at Grand Bend will be well represented with three world titles, three championship runner-up finishes, 29 wins and 54 final round appearances combined between the quartet of drivers.
“Rob is a friend and a great competitor so it should be a lot of fun in this no holds barred race,” Noakes added. “We are all friends until we get the seatbelts on and the body down. At that point we are not friends anymore.”
The MOPAR Canadian Nationals will get underway Friday, July 17 and run through Sunday, July 19 at the Grand Bend Motorplex in Grand Bend, Ontario.
MEDIA CONTACT: Larry Crum // Manager of Media and Publicity // IHRA - Feld Motor Sports
Marco Andretti unveils new IndyCar in Toronto
IndyCar driver Marco Andretti unveiled his new No. 26 car today at Toronto's Brookfield Place. Here are some pictures of the event via Matthew Naftolin of Veritas Communications. Thanks to Matt for passing them along!
PHOTO #1: IndyCar Series driver Marco Andretti unveils #26 IndyCar Series showcar before his Honda Indy race in Toronto on Sunday, July 12.
PHOTO #2: IndyCar Series driver Marco Andretti together with Heather Pelant, Head of iShares, Barclays Global Investors Canada (BGI Canada), unveiling #26 IndyCar Series showcar before the Honda Indy race in Toronto on Sunday, July 12.
Photos courtesy of Derek Oliver, Canadian Press
Parts Canada Superbike Series: Sloan and Crash Parallel to headline at Mosport
(BOWMANVILLE, ON – July 2, 2009) Canadian recording artists Sloan and Crash Parallel will headline the BMW Motorrad Summerfest as part of the Parts Canada Superbike Doubleheader at Mosport, July 17-19, Canada’s biggest motorcycle road racing event of the year.
The bands will take to the BMW Motorrad Concert Stage on the Saturday of the manufacturer’s three-day motorcycle lifestyle experience, making its return to Mosport for the third year. Designed to cater to the motorcycle enthusiast, Summerfest features the BMW Marketplace, on and off-road test rides and an off-road skills course. New for 2009 is the addition of BMW Motorrad Enduro rider Guy Giroux, who will act as an instructor for the off- road skills course.
Formed in 1991 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, four-member Sloan released its first record in 1992. Since then, the band has recorded and released 10 records to critical acclaim across North America. Sloan’s contemporary, yet instantly recognizable rock and roll sound has endeared them to a large and devoted fan following across the continent, particularly in Canada. Nominated numerous times during their career, Sloan has won four East Coast Music Awards and a Juno Award. Now based in Toronto, Sloan’s latest record, Parallel Play, was released in 2008.
Relative newcomers to the Canadian rock music scene, Toronto’s Crash Parallel was formed in 2005 and released their successful debut album, World We Know, in May 2008. The record has produced five singles to date, including the smash hit, World We Know. The band hit number one on the Billboard Emerging Canadian Artist Chart in the spring of 2008 and won the
2009 Canadian Radio Music Award for Best New Group of the Year.
In addition to Summerfest, the Yamaha Riding Academy will once again be offering it’s free riding clinic for children ages 6 to 12. The Academy provides professional instruction to youngsters on how to ride off-road motorcycles in a safe and fun manner.
Adults will also have any opportunity to do some riding when top manufacturers such as Suzuki offer demo rides on their latest models on neighbouring roads near Mosport. With the exception of the Yamaha Riding Academy (which supplies all required equipment), participants for all riding activities must have a valid motorcycle license, riding gear and helmet.
The Parts Canada Superbike Doubleheader, the only Toronto-area stop for the national Parts Canada Superbike Championship, features Canada’s top riders.
Three-time defending Superbike champion Jordan Szoke of Brantford, Ontario, and current points leader, 17 year-old phenom Brett McCormick of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan will battle it out in two points races against a deep field of perennial contenders and up-and-coming stars.
The weekend schedule also includes races in the Yoshimura Pro Sport Bike class, the Armour Bodies Amateur 600 Sport Bike Championship, the Suzuki SV650 Cup, the Pro Honda Oils Women's Cup Challenge and the Honda CBR125R Challenge.
A three-day SuperTicket is just $50 until July 15 ($60 at the Gate) and each ticket includes parking, paddock admission, and entrance to Saturday Night Stock Car racing at Mosport Speedway. Children 12 and under are free when accompanied by a paid adult admission. Single day tickets are also available.
General and family camping areas are available complete with full-service washrooms, showers and children's playgrounds. An advanced three-day weekend general camping pass is just $30 (for tents or pop-up trailers). RVs are $50 for the weekend.
For more information about Mosport ticket packages and camping, call the Mosport Hotline at 1-800-866-1072 (Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm ET) or visit online at www.mosport.com. Tickets are also available at Ticketmaster.
From Lee Bailie, Mosport, (905) 995-8313 (cell.) or email lee@mosport.com
C360R'S CIEKIEWICZ READY FOR CCTCC RACE AT TORONTO INDY
Driver Dave Ciekiewicz is looking forward to tearing down Lakeshore Boulevard in the C360R black-and-orange Acura. "This event is going to be awesome," he enthused. "The Touring Car field is so competitive and there will be a lot of cars jockeying for position. The goal is to try and stay with the lead pack and keep out of trouble."
Team Principal Karl Thomson is equally excited. "This really is the jewel in the crown of Canadian Touring Car, and has to be considered the premier event in Canadian motorsport. Being a Toronto-based team, we know there will be a lot of fans and friends who will be coming out to watch the races."
Held just west of downtown Toronto on the grounds of the Canadian National Exhibition and making use of a long stretch of Lakeshore Boulevard on Lake Ontario, the Indy is one of the best temporary road circuits in North America. With the IRL open-wheel cars making their return after a one-year hiatus, the weekend promises to be full of great racing. This means that drivers and teams will need to arrive with cars well set-up and ready to race.
Ciekiewicz current sits thirteeth in Super Touring points, but well within striking distance of fifth place. As fans have come to expect, the CCTCC racing is very close and the drivers will have to be careful at Toronto, where a small mistake can result in a very costly meeting with the concrete barriers that surround the track.
Practice and qualifying for the CCTCC cars takes place on Friday, with one 30-minute race each day on Saturday and Sunday. The Saturday race starts at 3:45pm, and the green flag drops on Sunday at 10:00am.
Compass360 Racing (C360R) is the motorsports division of Compass360
Marketing Communications, a firm offering branding expertise to
clients in diverse industries across North America. The Championship-
winning race team, with support from Honda of America, fields three
front-running Honda Civic Si's in Grand-Am's KONI Challenge, as well
as the #36 Acura TSX in Canadian Touring Car. For details visit http://c360r.com/
OHSWEKEN: Inside Track Motorsport News to sponsor award at Canadian Sprint Car Nationals
As Ohsweken Speedway's Canadian Sprint Car Nationals event continues to expand, so too does the list of sponsors and awards presented each year. This year Inside Track Motorsport News and Ohsweken Speedway are pleased to announce the creation of a new award recognizing the accomplishments of Canadian drivers in the event.
"The Canadian Sprint Car Nationals continues to grow in stature each year, and it's an honour for Inside Track to support this event with the 'Inside Track Motorsport News Top Canadian Finisher Award'" said David Weber, Inside Track's Managing Editor.
A $500 prize is on the line, to be awarded to the top Canadian finisher in the Canadian Sprint Car Nationals feature event. The top Canadian finisher in last year's edition of the Nationals was Quebec driver Steve Poirier, who came home seventh. Poirier is the only Canadian who has won the event, as he visited victory lane consecutively in 2006 and 2007.
From local grassroots racing to Canadian touring series and the Canucks who compete on the international stage, Inside Track Motorsport News is the leader in terms of timely, in-depth and thought-provoking coverage of the motorsports that matter to Canadians. Stock cars, road racing, drag racing, karting, rallying, motorcycles and several other racing disciplines appear in every issue. For more information, please visit www.InsideTrackNews.com.
Due to inclement weather, the Empire Super Sprints tour event at Ohsweken presented by Best Western Cairn Croft Hotel has been rescheduled as part of the Canadian Sprint Car Nationals weekend, expanding it to three full racing events. The Empire Super Sprints event is now slated for Thursday, September 17, followed by the Night Before the Nationals presented by Village Pizza with Sit-n-Bull Construction and Village Café on Friday, September 18, and the Fifth Annual Arrow Express Canadian Sprint Car Nationals on Saturday, September 19.
Advanced reserved seat tickets for the World of Outlaws Sprint Cars "Six Nations Showdown" 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!
Friday Night Thunder resumes on Friday, July 10 Wiseco Pistons presents Mid-Season Championships night, featuring the Corr/Pak Merchandising Sprint Cars, ESSO Thunder Stocks, ESSO Mini-Stocks presented by Evers Financial, Bombers, and Vintage Cars! Friday Night Thunder at Ohsweken Speedway offers affordable family entertainment just a short drive away from most mid-western Ontario locations.
Friday Night Thunder Adult General Admission is just $10, while Seniors and Students are $8, and kids 12 and under are FREE! Please visit www.OhswekenSpeedway.com for more information. On Friday night, gates open at 6:00p.m., with the first race at 7:45p.m.
By Tommy Goudge / Ohsweken Speedway
Indy Lights in Toronto: Hinch Set for Hometown Happening
Saturday’s ‘Toronto 100’ sees the Sam Schmidt Motorsports racer back in action around the 2.82km temporary street circuit based at Exhibition Place. ‘Hinch’ boasts two previous starts in Toronto, both of which came during his stint in the Atlantic Championship – the Canadian enjoying mixed fortunes, qualifying in the top-ten on both occasions, finishing sixth overall in 2006 and classified 11th in 2007 after contact from behind sidelined the local favorite.
With three podium finishes to his credit in his rookie Indy Lights season, James is looking to put last weekend’s early exit at Watkins Glen firmly behind him. A maiden victory behind the wheel of the #7 HinchTown.Com Dallara-Firestone, on home soil, is the goal for the weekend, Hinchcliffe confident the home support can help bolster his cause in what’s shaping up to be a closely fought Indy Lights battle.
“I’m obviously super excited to come back to
“
If James can succeed in winning an Indy Lights race in
The ‘Toronto 100’ gets underway on Saturday 11th July at 12:30pm EST followed on Sunday 12th July by the ‘Honda Indy Toronto’ IndyCar Series race at 1pm EST.
Top-6 Indy Lights Drivers – R8/15: 1st Hildebrand (USA) 279pts, 2nd Romancini (BRA) 221pts, 3rd Cunningham (NZ) 216pts, 4th Saavedra (COL) 215pts, 5th Davison (AUS) 206pts, 6th HINCHCLIFFE (CAN) 200pts - www.indycar.com/indylights
ENDS – www.hinchtown.com
Photo Credit – James Hinchcliffe sits sixth heading to his home race in
For further information or interview requests please contact James Hinchcliffe: Email: james@jameshinchcliffe.com
N.P.P. Late Model Series: Ready, Set... Gold!
From Gord Craig / http://www.npp-racing.com/EDMONTON, AB (July 8) – Drivers of the Northern Provincial Pipelines Late Model Series compete at one of Canada’s oldest motorsports events this weekend. First run in Edmonton back in 1954, the 2009 Gold Cup takes place this Friday and Saturday night at Castrol Raceway.
“It’s going to be an incredible two nights of racing,” says NPP Series announcer Gord Craig, “this is the eleventh consecutive year that NPP Late Models will be racing with the Sprint Cars at the Gold Cup.” It was at the 1999 Gold Cup that NPP Late Models made their Edmonton debut. Castrol Raceway has been the home track of the NPP Late Model Series since 2001. Campbell River BC’s Jason Beaulieu currently leads the Championship point chase at the midway point of the 2009 season.
“We have a little bit of a cushion right now but there is still a long way to go.” Beaulieu, who won in Lethbridge two weekends ago, has been the only NPP Series point leader thus far in 2009. “Wins are always nice but right now I will be after consistency for the last half of the season. I need top five finishes and no DNF’s.” The #46 Lucas Oil Dodge had three DNF’s (did not finish) in 2008 which left the 2007 NPP Champion out of the top three in points.
Mention the Gold Cup race weekend to NPP competitor Mike Tom and there are many unpleasant flashbacks. Tom hopes his luck improves at this years Gold Cup event in Edmonton. “I can’t remember any good Gold Cup events. None of them stand out in my mind at all.”
Tom did finish third at last year’s event but previous Gold Cup events for the Stony Plain Alberta driver have been major struggles with mechanical difficulties and blown motors. Tom currently sits tied for third in the NPP Championship point standings with Kevin Clark and is coming off a fourth place finish in Lethbridge two weekends ago.
“This is one of the better starts to a season for us,” says the driver of the Enerbuilt Technologies #55 Chevrolet, “despite our recent (Gold Cup) luck the team is really looking forward to this weekend’s event. We’ve been trying out different things the past few races. We are back at the home track and are expecting to be fast.” The NPP Late Model Series is expecting its biggest car count of the season this weekend with 19 cars competing for valuable 2009 Championship points.
CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS CHASE (TOP 10)
1. #46 Jason Beaulieu; Campbell River, BC Dodge 812
2. #14 D. Midgley/C. Beaulieu; BC Dodge 789
3. #55 Mike Tom; Stony Plain, AB Chevrolet 686
# 5 Kevin Clark; Altario, AB Dodge 686
4. #81 Dwight Kennedy; Edson, AB Dodge 650
5. # 8 Pat Fines; Whitecourt, AB Dodge 627
6. # 7 Shawn Kennedy; Edson, AB Dodge 620
7. #78 Ken Clark; Edson, AB Chevrolet 616
8. #88 Crystal Kennedy; Edson, AB Dodge 614
9. #01 Dan Stewart; Seba Beach, AB Dodge 610
10. #80 Curtis Moore; Sherwood Park, AB Dodge 604
2009 GOLD CUP
Edmonton, Alberta
>Friday, July 10th
Spectator Gates: 5:00pm
Racing: 7:00pm
>Saturday, July 11th
Spectator Gates: 4:00pm
Racing: 6:00pm
WEEKEND RACE NOTES
- NPP Late Model race teams have not competed on their home track since Sept. 19th (295 days ago)
- Jason Beaulieu, Dwight Kennedy, Trevor Emond and Darrell Midgley have been the most recent Feature winners at Gold Cup events dating back to 2006.
- Whitecourt’s Pat Fines is fifth in Championship points and is off to his best start in an NPP Late Model since his rookie season (2007).
- Jason Beaulieu won the last NPP Feature at Castrol Raceway (Sept 19th) and has won two of the last three Gold Cup features since 2007.
- after engine troubles in Lethbridge, three-time NPP champion Trevor Emond is still questionable for this weekend’s race in Edmonton.
- after missing the last four events due to work commitments, Sidney BC’s Darrell Midgley is back behind the wheel of the Lucas Oil #14 Dodge this weekend.
- just 82 points separates third place from 10th place in the NPP Championship point standings.
Northern Provincial Pipelines Ltd., based in Edson, Alberta, is title sponsor of the NPP Late Model Series which brings big league racing to Western Canadian race fans. Northern Provincial Pipelines is also proud to be one of the major sponsors of the #81 Dodge in the NASCAR Nationwide Series.
ST. THOMAS DRAGWAY: Diamond Jim Jet Funny Car added to Diamond Days
Diamond Days this weekend - Diamond Jim Jet Funny Car added
As an added attraction at this weekend’s Diamond Days presented by Roffelsen Jewellers the Diamond Jim Jet Funny Car has been added to the program. This will replace the previously announced Pro Comp class. Diamond Jim will be making passes Friday night, Saturday, Saturday night and Sunday.
This will allow the Friday and Saturday night spectators to see this outstanding show for only $10. The regular admission price for Saturday and Sunday is only $15.00 The event kicks off Friday night with the Performance Unlimited Street Legal program and the Quick 8 cars and bikes running for $250 to win in each category. This is for street legal cars and bikes. Mufflers, lights, horn and license plates are required but any tire is allowed.
We’ll see who has the quickest license plate(s) in the park!!
Saturday will feature full bracket racing and the winners of Top and Mod will run off for a $5,000 diamond ring courtesy of Roffelsen Jewellers, Chatham. Sunday will see the Summit Series final eliminations.
With the major sponsorship by Henry Roffelsen of Roffelsen Jewellers, Chatham the prize money totals over $22,500 for the bracket racers as well as reduced entry fees for the racers. Canada Trailers Top and Wiseco Mod will race for $1,500 to win both days, Chandler Technology Street and Borhog Power Sports Bike/Sled run for $1,000 to win both days and the Nothers Junior Dragsters for the first time will run for $500 to win both days.
Racer entry fees are reduced for this event to $40 per day for Top and Mod, $30 per day for Street and Bike/Sled and $25 for Junior Dragsters. Spectator admission is now $15 per day, seniors and students $10 per day and kids 12 and under as always no charge with a paid adult admission. Admission for Friday night’s Street Legal program is $10 and Saturday night’s Run What Ya Brung is $10 after 6. Car and driver are $20 to race both Friday and Saturday night.
For further information, contact the track at 519-775-2263 or visit the website at www.stthomasdragway.com.
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
NASCAR Canadian Tire Series News & Notes - St. Eustache
- Tide 250 Notebook
- Dickies 200 Post-Race Notebook
- Ranger Primed For First Oval Track Win
The Place: Autodrome St. Eustache,
The Date: Saturday, July 11
The Time: 8:05 p.m. ET
TV Schedule: TSN, July 19, 2 p.m. ET
Track Layout: .4-mile flat oval
Race Purse: $85,398 CAD
2008 Winner: Event not held
2008 Pole: Event not held
Schedule: Practice 1-2 p.m. Qualifying 4:45 p.m.
Track Contact: Tobie Légaré, (450) 472-6222, tlegare@autodrome.ca
NASCAR Contact: Shon Sbarra, (704) 309-5493, ssbarra@nascar.com
1. Ron Beauchamp Jr. 500
2. Andrew Ranger 492
3. DJ Kennington 465
4. Anthony Simone 459
5. Kerry Micks 450
6. Dave Whitlock 442
7. Scott Steckly 438
8. Mark Dilley 409
9. Jason Hathaway 392
10. Kent Nuhn 384
11. Don Thomson Jr. 379
12. Jason White 375
Ranger Primed For First Oval Track Win
The road to his 2007 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series championship started with a win at Mosport International Raceway.
While winning another title is certainly a goal, Andrew Ranger (No. 27 Walmart/Tide Ford) has a more immediate target in his crosshairs—his first series victory on an oval track.
The accomplished road racer, who has four road-course wins to his credit, has flirted on numerous occasions with an oval-track triumph. His most recent opportunity at this elusive item on his to-do list came in the 2009 season opener at Autodrome St. Eustache in his home
He established very early, after making the move from the former Champ Car Series, his ability behind the wheel of a race car. It was simply a matter of mastering the nuances of piloting a stock car.
As a result of his Mosport win, the 22-year-old out of Roxton Pond, Que., jumped to second in the championship driver standings, just eight points behind leader Ron Beauchamp Jr.
The question two seasons ago was if he could win on an oval track. Now, it seems to be just a matter of when. And it would be quite apropos to complete his transition in his native
ASE News & Notes
The Race: This event is the fourth of 13 races on the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series schedule. It is the third trip to the track for the series and second in 2009.
The Procedure: The starting field is 22 cars, including provisionals. The first 19 cars will be determined from two-lap time trials. The remaining three spots will be awarded through the provisional process. The race will be 250 laps (100 miles).
The Track: The Autodrome St. Eustache racing complex, located northwest of
The Records: The one-lap qualifying record for the Canadian Tire Series at the track is 17.219 seconds (83.629 mph), set by Don Thomson Jr. last year on July 5. The 250-lap race record is held by Scott Steckly at 1 hour, 53 minutes, 11 seconds, also set last July 5 for an average speed of 53.484 mph.
Making Debuts: In addition to Jacques Villeneuve, two other drivers—Jonathan Bouvrette and Hugo Vannini—will be making their series debut in the Tide 250. Bouvrette is the reigning track and provincial champion in the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series.
Last Time In St. Eustache: In the 2009 season opener on May 23, Dave Whitlock, just days after announcing that he will retire at the close of the 2009 season, started the year off right with a win in the Tufoil 250. It was his first career series victory. Kerry Micks and Ron Beauchamp Jr. took second and third, respectively.
Also On Tap: Joining the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series on Saturday night will be the Ippersiel Sportsman and Lucas Oil Sport Compact classifications of the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series. Additionally, the Papa Johns ANCA Modified Legends and REVSTAR sprint cars will be on hand.
NCATS Notebook: Dickies 200 Wrap-Up
Road Warrior: For the second time in three years, Andrew Ranger (No. 27 Walmart/Tide Ford) took the checkered flag at Mosport Int'l Raceway. He dominated the entire weekend by leading both practice sessions, earning the pole position and winning the race by a series record margin of victory—6.678 seconds. In the nine road-course races since the series began in 2007, the driver out of Roxton Pond, Que., has been victorious in four of them and runner-up in three others. His other two wins came last season in
Still The One: By registering his third top-five finish in three starts this season, Ron Beauchamp Jr. (No. 60 Mopar/Mobil 1/Exide Batteries Dodge) retained his position at the top of the driver standings. He holds an eight-point advantage over Ranger, who moved into the second spot with his Dickies 200 victory.
Mosport Superlatives: With a runner-up finish at Mosport, Anthony Simone (No. 95 Crown Modular/United Lumber Chevrolet) established a new personal-best finish. So far this season, the sophomore driver out of Holland Landing, Ont., has a pair of top fives and currently sits fourth in the driver standings, 41 points behind Beauchamp. Howie Scannell Jr. (No. 56 Lucas Oil/RC Trailers Dodge) scored a ninth-place finish in his series debut.
Mobil 1 Command Performance Driver of the Race Award: As a reward for his NASCAR Canadian Tire Series victory at Mosport International Raceway, Ranger collects $1,500 from Mobil 1 for his effort.
Mopar Quick Three: This program awards the top three finishing Dodges in the race. In the Dickies 200, DJ Kennington (No. 17 Castrol/Mahindra Tractors Dodge), who finished fourth, was the highest-finishing Dodge and thus earned a $2,000 bonus. Fifth-place finisher Beauchamp was the second-highest finishing Dodge, which earned him $1,000. Picking up $500 for finishing as the third-highest Dodge was Jason Hathaway (No. 3 Snap-on Tools/Vortex Brake Pads Dodge). He finished eighth, overall.
Coca-Cola Move of the Race Award: Improving his position the most over the course of the race was Jeff Lapcevich (No. 23 Tim Hortons Chevrolet). After qualifying and starting 19th on the grid, he was able to navigate his way to a seventh-place finish. As a result, he earned the $1,000 award from Coca-Cola.
MAHLE Clevite Engine Builder of the Race Award: In a new program for 2009, the driver who compiles the most points in a specialized system involving qualifying, race finish and leading laps collects the $1,000 award. By virtue of starting on the pole, leading the most laps and winning the race, Ranger earned the bonus.
Home Tracks Update: Bouvrette Is Looking For Another Title In 2009
The weather and beating Jonathan Bouvrette in the Ippersiel Sportsman classification in the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series have been two of the most difficult things at Autodrome St. Eustache in 2009.
Since the beginning of May,
Bouvrette, of St. Therese, Que., is the defending track and
Occupying second place in the standings is a familiar name to NASCAR Canadian Tire Series fans—Andre Coursol, who has been a regular this season in his familiar-looking No. 5 Chevy. He has one win to go along with eight top-five and nine top-10 finishes in 10 starts. Despite those impressive numbers, they pale in comparison to Bouvrette's gaudy stats, which have Coursol down 65 points.
Like Bouvrette, 2007 track champion Guy Jubinville has posted a top 10 in every race, but he has yet to reach
The Ippersiel Sportsman class is scheduled to have a 60-lap event on Saturday night prior to the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Tide 250.
The NASCAR Whelen All-American Series serves as the foundation of NASCAR – grassroots racing across the
Up Next: SunValley
The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series packs up and heads west for the next three races.
The first stop is the speedy half-mile tri-oval of SunValley Speedway in
Fitzpatrick Motorsports has had its way at the track, nestled in the mountains of southern
Scott Steckly, twice, has been the runner-up at the track.
Follow all the NASCAR Home Tracks racing news at:
http://www.nascarhometracks.com
http://www.facebook.com/NASCARHomeTracks
http://twitter.com/NASCARHomeTrack
CBSSports: F1 in jeopardy as teams walk out of meeting in Germany
"Formula One's fragile peace deal was thrown into doubt again Wednesday when eight leading teams walked out of a meeting with the governing body after being told they had not been entered into the 2010 championship and would have no say on finalizing cost-cutting measures..."Click here for the full story.
IHRA: MOPAR Canadian Nationals - Grand Bend Preview
The Great Canadian Race: Grand Bend Motorplex hosts International Thrill Fest
July 17-19, 2009
Since the International Hot Rod Association truly became a multi-national sanctioning body with the running of the Canadian Nationals in 2000, Grand Bend Motorplex has been one of the premier venues on the Nitro Jam tour.
Located just outside the quaint village, and popular summer tourist destination, of Grand Bend, Ontario, on the shore of Lake Huron, Grand Bend Motorplex annually hosts large, enthusiastic, fun-loving crowds of race fans from Ontario, Michigan and beyond.
The 2009 version of the Great Canadian Race, the MOPAR Canadian Nationals, promises to be bigger, better, louder, more exciting, more thrilling and more over-the-top than ever before.
“We love to entertain, and that is exactly what we are going to do at Grand Bend,” said IHRA President Aaron Polburn. “Drag racing is an entertainment business. From the sights, sounds, and smells of the nitro-burning Top Fuel dragsters to our always-exciting door car classes, we love to keep our fans on the edge of their seats, not knowing what they are going to see next.”
The MOPAR Canadian Nationals, race six on the 10-event 2009 Nitro Jam schedule, will feature competition in the Elite Motorsports Pro Stock class, home of the quickest and fastest “factory hot rods” in drag racing today.
And if you can’t get enough “doorslammer” racing, hang on to your hats as one of the season’s largest fields of Pro Modified machines blister the GBM quarter-mile with five-second, 245-plus mph runs. Bolstering the ranks of the IHRA regulars will be members of the Ontario-based Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA), which has added an additional race to its schedule just to allow its members to take part in the excitement that is the MOPAR Canadian Nationals.
Also on the agenda is the Alcohol Funny Car showdown between two of London, Ontario’s favorite sons, and drag racing’s top drivers. Three-time IHRA Alcohol Funny Car champion Rob Atchison will go head-to head against Paul Noakes in the unique “King of Canada” match race. These two guys are friends, but on the track it’s every man for himself.
In addition to all of this mind-blowing action, the night skies will be set ablaze when the nitro-burning Top Fuel Dragsters take to the track, joining Nitro Harleys, the Ballistic Eagle jet motorcycle, and the “Xtreme Machine” jet-powered Kenworth Classic truck.
This will be without a doubt the wildest, most pulse-pounding, thrill-a-minute entertainment spectacular in Ontario this summer. Everyone you know is going to be there, so don’t be the only one on your block to miss all the amazing action!
Purchase your tickets today by logging on to: www.ihra.com or www.grandbendmotorplex.com.
From Larry Crum // Manager of Media and Publicity // IHRA - Feld Motor Sports
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