Don't miss Sunday at the Canadian Motorsports Expo

Sunday is the third and final day of the 4th Annual Canadian Motorsports Expo. Check out the schedule on the Canadian Tire Stage - including headliners Paul Tracy and Ron Fellows and celebrations kicking off Mosport's 50th Anniversary Season. The show runs from 10 to 5 at the International Centre, adjacent to Toronto's Pearson airport. For more show info, visit www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 24, 2010

ON THE CANADIAN TIRE STAGE

11:00 a.m. - noon     Yvon, Miguel and Mario Duhamel
This is your second and final chance, at the CME, to participate in a Q&A / Autograph session with Yvon, Miguel and Mario Duhamel; Canada’s First Family of Motorcycle Racing.

1:30 - 2:45 p.m.     Paul Tracy
Canadian road racing star Paul Tracy will participate in a Fan Q&A and autograph session with CME showgoers. The former IndyCar champ, who is popular for his wide-open driving style and candid comments, is pumped about connecting with Candian racing fans at the Canadian Tire Stage.

3:00 - 4:00     Mosport International Raceway's 50th Anniversary Celebration
Paul Tracy, Ron Fellows and several others, including Horst Kroll, Norris McDonald and Doctor Hugh Scully will take part in ceremonies and celebrations kicking off the upcoming 50th anniversary season of racing at the legendary Mosport International Raceway. Almost every famous Canadian racer and industry member has a personal story about how Mosport helped to shape their career. Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hear interesting tributes and tales about Canada’s Home of Motorsports.

CME SEMINARS

11:00 a.m. (Seminar Room #1)      Driver Physical Fitness - A Fit Driver Is A Safe Driver (Jim Leo, PitFit Training)

12:30 p.m. (Seminar Room #1)     Safety Team Accident Response - What They Do For Drivers (Ontario Race Physicians Safety Team)

2:00 p.m. (Seminar Room #1)     Targa Newfoundland - It's about the DRIVE (Robert Giannou & Ray Felice, Targa Newfoundland & RSO)

Canadian Motorsports Expo Photo Gallery - January 23, 2010

This photo gallery is from Friday and Saturday at the Canadian Motorsports Expo, at the International Centre (Toronto). NASCAR Sprint Cup star Matt Kenseth packed the house for a fan Q&A and autograph session. Canadian racing star Ron Fellows was another star of the show.

Canada's top racers were honoured on stage with the Inside Track Readers' Choice Awards, including Overall Canadian Racer of the Year Andrew Ranger, who also scooped the Stock Car Racer of the Year award.

The show continues Sunday when Paul Tracy participates in a fan Q&A and autograph session, prior to participating in celebrations launching Mosport's 50th Anniversary Season.

Saturday at the Canadian Motorsports Expo

Today at the Canadian Motorsports Expo...

SATURDAY, JANUARY 23

Live on the Canadian Tire Stage:

10:45 - 11:45 a.m. Ron Fellows hosts 'Ron & Friends' Bench Racing Forum
Canadian racing legend Ron Fellows hosts ‘Ron & Friends,’ a bench-racing forum featuring Bill Brack, Robin Buck, Daniel Morad, Bryan Muir, Robert Wickens and Ken Wilden. Join Ron and his panel of speedy friends in a wide-ranging motorsports discussion.

Noon - 1 p.m. Future Fuels Forum
Green initiatives are happening now. All racing and racers will sooner or later have to make changes. Hear from industry experts and motorsport leaders what is being done now and what will happen in the future. Panel participants include ALMS CEO Scott Atherton, Canadian Member of Parliament and consumer gas price watchdog Dan McTeague and emissions expert Dave Kalen of Sensors, Inc.

1:15 - 2:00 p.m. 'Meet the Media' Fan Forum
Our annual gathering of motorsport media experts make up the panel for a what is always a very informative and entertaining open discussion on the latest news and happenings around the racing world. This interactive fan forum is a great opportunity to get a ‘behind the scenes’ perspective from experts like Norris McDonald (Toronto Star / Wheels), Dean McNulty (Sun Media), Erik Tomas (Raceline Radio), Jeff Pappone (Globe & Mail), Tim Miller (Hamilton Spectator), Hugh Burrill (City TV) and Russ Bond (Inside Track / CanadianRacers.com)

2:30 - 4:00 p.m. Matt Kenseth
Reigning Daytona 500 winner and former NASCAR Sprint Cup champion Matt Kenseth will take to The Canadian Tire Stage to participate in a Q&A session with the fans, before signing as many autographs as possible. This is your chance to get up close and personal with one of NASCAR's most popular and successful racers.

4:45 - 5:30 p.m. NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Driver Autograph Session
Your chance to chat with and get autographs from some of Canada's top NASCAR racers. Drivers like Ron Beauchamp Jr., Robin Buck, JR Fitzpatrick, Mark Dilley, Derek Lynch, Steve Matthews, Anthony Simone and others are expected to attend.

5:45 - 6:30 p.m. Yvon, Miguel and Mario Duhamel
This is your first of two opportunities during the CME to participate in a Q&A / Autograph session with Yvon, Miguel and Mario Duhamel; Canada’s First Family of Motorcycle Racing.

7:00 - 8:00 p.m. Inside Track Readers’ Choice Award Presentations
Voting for the Inside Track Readers' Choice Awards wrapped on December 31. On Saturday, January 23, be sure you're at The Canadian Tire Stage to find out who 'you' selected as Canada's top and future racing stars. Many of the winners have been confirmed their attendance.

AND SEMINARS YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS:

11:45 a.m. (Seminar Room #1) Derek Daly Advanced Driver Development Seminar (Derek Daly, Former F1 & IndyCar Driver and Current Broadcaster & Author)

12:00 p.m. (Seminar Room #2) Becoming A Motorsport Marshall (Motorsport Marshalling Services)

1:45 p.m. (Seminar Room #1) Getting Involved in Rallying (Paul Henshall & Christina Chinn, Rally Sport Ontario (RSO))

2:15 p.m. (Seminar Room #2) Keeping Your Cool - Affects of Heat on Racers (Ken Wilden, Driver Coach & '09 Koni Challenge Champion)

3:30 p.m. (Seminar Room #1) Advanced Brake Technology, Covering All Racing Brake Systems (By Darrick Dong, Director of Motorsports - Performance Friction Brakes)

5:15 p.m. (Seminar Room #2) Shock Absorber Tuning (Ryan Brand, Penske Racing Shocks)

5:45 p.m., (Seminar Room #1) Sponsorship Proposals and Ideas That Work (Mark Dilley, NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Driver and Partner in Wide Open Motorsport Solutions)

Mosport unveils its 50th Anniversary logo at the Canadian Motorsports Expo

Mississauga, ON (January 22, 2010) – Mosport International Raceway unveiled its 50th anniversary season logo today at the opening of the Canadian Motorsport Expo (CME), this country’s premier racing show, which is on at the Toronto International Centre until Sunday.

The golden anniversary emblem incorporates the circuit’s historic logo, used from the 1960s to the 1990s, when the facility was known as Mosport Park. It sports a maple leaf within the word “Mosport” set over an outline of the track on a checkered flag background, surrounded by a golden ring, laurels and the number 50.

“Our 50th anniversary season obviously will have a strong nostalgic flavour, so it’s only fitting that we incorporate the old Mosport Park logo,” said Myles Brandt, president and general manager of Mosport International Raceway. “We hope this season-long celebration will bring back many great memories for everyone associated with the track since 1961.”

The trip down memory lane starts with this weekend’s CME,  where the Mosport RaceTour Exhibit  will feature the Horst Kroll owned Can-Am car that Paul Tracy drove at Mosport in 1986 to score his first major race win. Both Tracy and Kroll will appear at the CME on Sunday.

Media Contact: Jerry Priddle // jerry@mosport.com // Office: 1-800-866-1072 (ext  305) // Cell: (905) 260-1711

Michigan Int'l Speedway: VFW to sponsor NASCAR Truck Series race at MIS

BROOKLYN, Mich. (Jan. 22, 2010) - In an effort to recognize and salute veterans and their families around the country, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Foundation will be the title sponsor of its first-ever NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race, the “VFW 200” on Saturday, June 12 at Michigan International Speedway.

“The VFW 200 and our association with NASCAR aligns well with our mission to help America’s service members and their families. This will help bring public attention to their urgent needs,” said VFW Commander-In-Chief Thomas J. Tradewell, Sr.

“The VFW Foundation has had a wonderful relationship with NASCAR driver, Kevin Harvick’s KHI racing team. We are excited about our on-going association with Kevin Harvick and proud to have the opportunity to sponsor the VFW 200. NASCAR, its fans, and the Michigan International Speedway are perfect for such a patriotic event,” added Tradewell.

With the new VFW relationship, MIS has now secured sponsorship deals for all of its racing events in 2010.

“We’re very pleased to have the VFW Foundation sponsor our Camping World Truck Series event,” MIS President Roger Curtis said. “The VFW Foundation and its mission to provide help to America’s service members touches many of our race fans who are veterans themselves. This relationship will strengthen our commitment to our veterans and what they have sacrificed for our country. We appreciate and recognize their efforts.”

“The idea that we have secured sponsorship for all of our races in 2010 in these tough economic times is a positive message for MIS and the sport of NASCAR as a whole. It’s great that sponsors are still seeing the benefit of using the speedway as a platform to communicate their message to our race fans, who are the most loyal in motorsports,” Curtis added.

Additionally the Foundation will provide activities and informational venues at the track during the entire weekend to highlight the service and sacrifice of America’s U.S. service members and their families. Service members attending the event (many of whom are on leave from duty in Iraq and Afghanistan) will be given VIP status and provided with pit passes and access to NASCAR drivers, grandstand seating and complimentary food.

The venue will allow the VFW Foundation to showcase its “Salute to Military Families” campaign, designed to bring awareness to the unique problems and needs of troops and their families. It will be the second year the VFW Foundation has sponsored the “Salute to Military Families” program. Through its “Unmet Needs” initiative, the VFW Foundation has provided more than $3 million in direct financial assistance to military families for rent, mortgage, utilities, vehicle repair, medical expenses and basic food assistance.

Other VFW Foundation programs include “Operation Uplink’s Free Call Days” which facilitated approximately 20 million minutes of free long-distance overseas talk-time for troops in 2009; morale boosting “welcome home” and “sendoff” events for military units; and direct, free assistance to veterans obtaining VA entitlements from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

About the Veterans of Foreign Wars and its Foundation: Since its inception in 1899, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, America’s largest major combat veterans group, has without fail taken the lead in ensuring that issues of vital importance to American military personnel and veterans have not been ignored. This proud tradition of unwavering dedication to the cause of freedom, patriotism and concern for individuals who have so selflessly defended our country abroad is unique to the American experience. Today, our 1,600,000 members, both male and female, come from every conceivable geographic region, ethnic heritage, and span a wide range of adult ages. The VFW Foundation, one of America’s most highly-rated 501(c)(3) nonprofits established in 1996, is the fundraising arm of the VFW.

For more information please contact John G. Lowe, VFW Foundation Deputy Director, at (816) 968-2720 or visit www.vfwfoundation.org

About Michigan International Speedway: Nestled in the lush Irish Hills of Southeastern Michigan, Michigan International Speedway is the Great Escape, a venerable NASCAR national park where fans can get away and enjoy the very best in racing and camaraderie. It’s the love of racing and the thrill of a great time for race fans and drivers alike.

Contact: Sammie Lukaskiewicz, MIS Director of Communications, 517-592-1208, slukaskiewicz@mispeedway.com // Dennis Worden, MIS Manager of Public Relations, 517-592-1204, dworden@mispeedway.com

ALMS CEO Scott Atherton to headline Alternative Fuels Forum at the CME

Motorsports has long been at the leading edge when it comes to innovation and the development of automotive technologies. These days, environmental issues are front of mind in many spheres, including the auto industry and motorsports. The escalating cost of traditional energy has only heightened awareness of the need for new options.

Many in motorsports are working to be part of the solution, and one aspect of that is the development of practical, alternative fuels for use on the racetrack, and ultimately, on our roads. On Saturday, January 23 at the Canadian Motorsports Expo – starting at noon on The Canadian Tire Stage – several experts will take part in an Alternative Fuels Forum. They will discuss energy issues and motorsports-related solutions for the future. Headlining the panel is American Le Mans Series CEO Scott Atherton.

“The American Le Mans Series is a leader when it comes to alternative fuels, with several options currently being used and in development,” said CME President Glenn Butt. “And we are deeply honoured to have Scott Atherton attending the CME and participating in this forum.”

Atherton is expected to be joined by several noted experts in their fields, including Dan McTeague. The Canadian Member of Parliament is a household name to many Canadians because of his work as a consumer watchdog when it comes to the price of gasoline.

Also on stage will be Michigan-based Dave Kalen, who has been involved in emissions measurements for hybrid vehicles through projects like ChallengeX and EcoCAR. He’s also a member of the Off Road Implementation Advisory Group for the California Air Resource Board and an advisor to the SEMA fuel economy task force. Recently, he’s become involved with the stock car-related project Green Racing, in which an engine is being tested with alternative fuels and technologies such as electronic fuel injection and catalysts.

Joining the other experts will be Mitch Markusich of Ontario Competition Fuels. Markusich has been a pioneer in the development and testing of unleaded fuels, dating back to 1992 when the Canadian government implemented a ban on leaded fuels for racing purposes. Additionally, John Stefko – of Stefko Racing Engines – will bring his 25+ years experience building race engines to the forum.

Change is inevitable, and many in motorsports – from NASCAR to IndyCar – are working hard to develop alternatives that are beneficial for the sport and society. This process is something that will impact every racer and series in years to come. Join us Saturday at the CME to learn what’s happening on this front.

ABOUT THE CME: The Canadian Motorsports Expo is a three-day celebration of Canadian racing that runs January 22 to 24 at the International Centre (6900 Airport Road in Mississauga). The show is powered by Inside Track Motorsport News and supported by companies like Lucas Oil Canada, NASCAR Canada, Mosport International Raceway and Canadian Tire. In addition to booths and racing vehicles representing the entire spectrum of Canadian motorsports, the show is loaded with seminars and forums to entertain and inform racers and fans alike. Star drivers Matt Kenseth, Paul Tracy, Ron Fellows, Derek Daly and Jessica Zemken will be at the CME to sign autographs and meet the fans. Please check the show’s website for updates and changes.
For more information about the Canadian Motorsports Expo, visit www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com, call Glenn Butt at (905) 721-1762 or email him at glenn@canadianmotorsportsexpo.com. You can reach co-promoters Inside Track at (416) 962-7223 or email expo@insidetracknews.com.

Cdn. Motorsports Expo: Racing Fitness Trainer Jim Leo at the CME

Renowned Auto Racing Fitness Trainer Jim Leo to Present his Racer Fitness Seminar on Sunday at the CME

PitFit Training Inc. President Jim Leo will present his seminar A Fit Driver Is a Safe Driver on Sunday at 11 a.m. at the Canadian Motorsports Expo (CME). During his presentation, in Seminar Room #1, he will explain why physical fitness and proper nutritional habits can enhance the performance and safety of a racing driver. The seminar is free to showgoers at this weekend’s CME, at Toronto’s International Centre.

A Fit Driver is a Safe Driver Seminar topics include:
•       Physical effects on the racing driver
•       The Basic Principles of Fitness (Stamina Training, Strength Training, Flexibility, Evaluation, and Reaction)
•       Nutrition.

The workshop is extremely hands-on and will utilize seminar audience members for demonstration purposes. As one of auto racing’s most respected fitness trainers Jim Leo’s PitFit Training organization has grown into a worldwide operation. His client list includes many top racers including Scott Dixon, Kasey Kahne, Dario Franchitti, Paul Tracy, and rising stars like J.R. Hildebrand, Wade Cunningham and Toronto’s Indy Lights driver, James Hinchcliffe.

Leo started his career in the world of motorsports in 1993, designing a training program and cutting edge fitness center for Penske Racing. In 1997 Jim started PitFit Training, offering driver training, pit crew performance training and sports nutrition to clients at its headquarters in Indianapolis, Indiana. Since then, PitFit Training has added staff and grown to a worldwide operation with staff located through North America and clients from all over the world. Leo has also written for various publications, like Formula Car, Men’s Health, Sports Car, and USAC.

“We are extremely privileged to have Jim at the CME,” said the CME’s Glenn Butt. “PitFit Training provides top level training to many elite, successful racers. Those in attendance at Jim’s seminar on Sunday at 11 a.m. will be in for an interesting and educational experience.”

ABOUT THE CME: The Canadian Motorsports Expo is a three-day celebration of Canadian racing that runs January 22 to 24 at the International Centre (6900 Airport Road in Mississauga). The show is powered by Inside Track Motorsport News and supported by companies like Lucas Oil Canada, NASCAR Canada, Mosport International Raceway and Canadian Tire. In addition to booths and racing vehicles representing the entire spectrum of Canadian motorsports, the show is loaded with seminars and forums to entertain and inform racers and fans alike. Star drivers Matt Kenseth, Paul Tracy, Ron Fellows, Derek Daly and Jessica Zemken will be at the CME to sign autographs and meet the fans. Please check the show’s website for updates and changes.
For more information about the Canadian Motorsports Expo, visit www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com, call Glenn Butt at (905) 721-1762 or email him at glenn@canadianmotorsportsexpo.com. You can reach co-promoters Inside Track at (416) 962-7223 or email expo@insidetracknews.com.

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Canadian Motorsports E-Newsletter - It's showtime!

The pre-show edition of the Canadian Motorsports Expo E-Newsletter is online here. It's going to be a busy weekend. Come see Matt Kenseth, Ron Fellows, Paul Tracy, The Duhamels, Derek Daly and many more stars this Friday through Sunday at the International Centre.

NASCAR Makes Rule Changes For 2010 Daytona 500

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Race fans have been delivering a strong message, and now in response, NASCAR has delivered a new rules package that will heighten the racing excitement for the prestigious 52nd annual Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb. 14 at Daytona International Speedway.

The changes, which were announced on Thursday afternoon, include:

· Permitting bump drafting around the entire 2.5-mile tri-oval shaped track

· A larger restrictor plate that will provide the drivers with more horsepower

“We applaud NASCAR for listening to the race fans,” Daytona International Speedway President Robin Braig said. “The racing at Daytona has been exceptional year in and year out and these changes will give the drivers even more flexibility on the race track to provide the thrilling action that race fans come to expect at the Daytona 500.”

The new rules will be in effect for all of the Hershey’s Milk & Milkshakes Speedweeks 2010 events.

Fans will witness the new rules in action for the first time in the Budweiser Shootout, the 75-lap, non-points event that is part of racing tripleheader on Saturday, Feb. 6 with Daytona 500 Qualifying By Kroger and the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200.

The new rules will also be in effect for the Gatorade Duel At Daytona, the no-holds barred 150-mile qualifying races which finalize the 43-car field for “The Great American Race.”

Tickets for all of Hershey’s Milk & Milkshakes Speedweeks events, including the Daytona 500, are available on your web-enabled phone at mobile.daytonainternationalspeedway.com, online at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.

Fans can stay connected with Daytona International Speedway on Twitter (www.twitter.com/disupdates) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/DaytonaInternationalSpeedway).

Hinch New Year Catch Up Q&A

Toronto, Canada (January 20, 2010) – Canada’s James Hinchcliffe returns to the cockpit of an Indy Lights Firestone-Dallara race car at the weekend with a two-day test scheduled with Sam Schmidt Motorsports at the Firebird International Raceway, Phoenix, Saturday 23rd and Monday 25th January.The 23-year-old Toronto racer, while yet to confirm his 2010 on-track commitments, will test with the team he raced with in his rookie Indy Lights season, steering the #7 entry to several podium finishes and fifth overall in the 2009 Driver Standings.Naturally eager to get back to doing what he does best, ‘Hinch’, took time out before heading west for a quick catch-up to officially start his 2010 activities:

Q: Was it a traditional-style Christmas in the ‘Hinch’ household – did you receive unwanted garish wooly sweaters and socks etc?

JH: “Sadly I didn’t get a Christmas sweater this year. I really wanted one, the cheesier the better, so that way I would be invited to Christmas sweater parties! Other than that, it was a typical Christmas for the Hinch clan. Quiet, low-key, just how we like it!”

Q: The coolest gift you received was…?

JH: “Coolest gift would have been that sweater I wanted!!! But, in absence of that, the best by far was my new guitar. It is a custom built guitar that I helped design and choose all the wood for and everything. It’s been a year in the making and it’s been really cool seeing the process of how it was built. It started as a couple of pieces of wood and the first time I saw the whole thing together was Christmas morning. It really is a work of art but I’m still trying to think of a name for it – I’m open to suggestions!!!

Q: What was the very last thing you did in 2009 and what was the first thing you did to welcome 2010?

JH: “The last thing was say ‘3, 2, 1’ and the first thing was most likely say ‘Happy New Year’. In all honesty, right before midnight I was having a snowball fight with a bunch of my friends in the middle of a frozen lake! We were having so much fun we nearly missed the countdown. We finally got inside as the TV was yelling ‘8, 7…’. So the first act of the New Year would have been a kiss from a beautiful woman, my girlfriend. By all accounts it should be a good year!”

Q: Your lamest ever New Year’s Resolution was…?

JH: “Eating healthier! I was eating cold pizza by about 1am!”

Q: What do you wish you could have done in 2009 but didn’t?

JH: “Well, for sure not winning a race was tough. We were close so many times but it just never came together. We had the pace but were just missing every coming together on the same day. It’s tough, but that’s the point. So I wish I would have won a race. That, and become a Jedi! But who has the time?”

Q: What can we expect from James Hinchcliffe – the racing driver this year?

JH: “That’s a tough question! The goal is to race in the Firestone Indy Lights Series again. We are close to getting the funding in place. But, as it was last year, this season is shaping up to be super competitive. A bunch of returning drivers and some good new rookies are looking into the series, so it’s really difficult to predict anything! All I can say is that you can expect 100% commitment and effort from me to be at the front.”

Q: As Mayor of the beloved, and continually expanding ‘Hinchtown’ – your website, what’s on your manifesto for the next 12 months?

JH: “Well it is going to be a busy year from the big chair in Hinchtown. We are adding some cool new things that I think people will really enjoy. And I’m really pushing Hinchtown as a great place for a new reality show. Something like ‘The real Housewives of Hinchtown’ I think would really put us on the map. Stay tuned!”

Q: Prediction time – who’s going to finish in the top three in the 2010 IZOD IndyCar Series?

JH: “Well you can’t count out the Ganassi boys and obviously Penske are going to be tough to beat also. So much is timing and luck, but if I had to pick three then I would go with, in no particular order, Dixon, Franchitti and Power. Whoever it is I think it’s shaping up to be a barn-burner of a year. I don’t even know why people say that or even what it means, but it makes it sound intense!”

Q: If you could race in ANY event worldwide in 2010, what would it be and why?

JH: “The 24 Hours of Lemons! You heard me right. The 24 hour race where the car has to be under $500! Who wouldn’t want to do that? That, or the IndyCar race in Toronto would be pretty cool. Similarly, the F1 race in Montreal. Nothing beats the thrill of racing on home turf.”
Q: With American Idol kicking off the new year’s ‘Reality TV’ scheduling last week – how would Simon Cowell describe your vocal talent?

JH: “He would say, ‘That was the most appalling attempt at singing I have ever heard. I don’t think someone could be more tone deaf than you. If such a thing as an ear transplant existed, I would be first in line to get it after being subjected to that epic singing failure.’ Pretty harsh, eh? But then I would tell Simon what I thought of his haircut!”

www.hinchtown.com

MOSPORT ANNOUNCES RACE SERIES LINE-UP FOR 2010 MAJOR EVENT SCHEDULE

BOWMANVILLE, ON (January 20, 2010) - Celebrating its 50th anniversary season, Mosport International Raceway today announced its race series line-up for the 2010 major event schedule.

The six-weekend program features the only Canadian stop in North America's premier sports car championship, the American Le Mans Series, along with visits from several popular U.S.-based championships like the World Challenge (GT, GTS & Touring), the SCCA Trans-Am Series and the Star Mazda Championship.

Canadian series figure prominently, with two rounds each in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series and the Parts Canada Superbike Championship, plus three rounds in the Castrol Canadian Touring Car Series, the country's premier sedan championship.

Plans are underway to commemorate the track's golden anniversary milestone throughout the season, starting with this weekend's Canadian Motorsport Expo at the International Centre in Mississauga, ON. More activities will be announced in the coming months.

Mosport's held the line on admission ticket pricing, with weekend SuperTickets ranging from $30 to $65, and single-day tickets starting at just $15. Children 12 and under are admitted free to all race events at Mosport. Access to on-site features, like the Race Team Paddock and the Motorsports Expo & Marketplace, are included with every ticket, as is free parking and free admission to the Saturday Night Stock Car Racing at Mosport Speedway.

The traditional major event season kick-off is May 21-23 with the Victoria Day SpeedFest. Fans can visit online at mosport.com or call the Mosport Ticket Hotline (1-800-866-1072) for more info.
　
Media Contact: Jerry Priddle jerry@mosport.com
Office: 1-800-866-1072 (ext 305)
Cell: (905) 260-1711　
　
MOSPORT'S 2010 MAJOR EVENT SCHEDULE
　
May 21-23 Victoria Day SpeedFest Weekend
The kick-off to Mosport's 50th anniversary season features the World Challenge Series (GT, GTS & Touring) and the thundering muscle cars of the SCCA Trans-Am Series. The country's top sports car sedan championship,the Castrol Canadian Touring Car Series, kicks-off their 2010 campaign this weekend. The Sundown Grand Prix endurance race-into-darkness classic runs Saturday night and is followed by Mosport's traditional Victoria Day Weekend fireworks display.
　
June 11-13 High Octane 200
Drivers in Canada's top stock car championship will show their stuff on one the world's most challenging road courses as the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series makes its first of two stops at Mosport in the High Octane 200. The Castrol Canadian Touring Car Series is back for their second of three Mosport rounds. Two popular open-wheel series, the U.S.-based F2000 Championship and the Ontario Formula Ford Championship, round out a busy weekend of racing.
　
June 18-20 31st Annual International Vintage Racing Festival
Come celebrate Mosport's storied past at the country's largest and longest running historic racing festival. Organized by the Vintage Automobile Racing Association of Canada, this annual race meet features beautifully restored cars from the past 50 years of motorsports. Festival highlights include a tribute to Mosport's 50th season and a Vintage MG Drivers Focus Event, plus races in popular classes like the Open Wheel, Historic & Vintage Production, Sports Racers and Group
70+.
　
July 9-11 Parts Canada Superbike Doubleheader Weekend
Canada's top motorcycle riders compete in a doubleheader points race for the national Parts Canada Superbike Championship. Mosport is the premier stop of the season for the Superbikes, along with other national classes including the Yoshimura Pro Sport Bike, Armour Bodies Amateur Sport Bike, the Honda CBR125R Challenge and a new Sports Twins Pro/Am division.
Off track features include the BMW Motorrad SummerFest (with on& off road bikes to test, live music and riding merchandise), plus demo rides featuring the latest bikes from top manufacturers.
　
August 21 Dickies 200
The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series returns to Canada's fastest half-mile paved oval as the championship hunt heats up. This 200-lap race into-the-night always provides fans with one of the most entertaining NASCAR events of the season and gives the drivers one of their toughest tests on the schedule.
　
August 26-29 Mobil 1 Presents The Grand Prix of Mosport
Canada's biggest sports car race of the year will mark the final major event of Mosport's 50th anniversary season and it promises to be the best. The American Le Mans Series for exotic prototypes and GT race cars makes their only north-of-the-border stop as the world's great marques like Acura, Aston Martin, BMW, Corvette, Ferrari, Jaguar, Mazda and Porsche battle it out on one of the world's classic road courses. A trio of U.S.-based series will be on-track; Star Mazda Championship, presented by Goodyear for open-wheel racers, Cooper Prototype Lites and the Mazda MX-5 Cup. Canada's top sedan racers will return to Mosport for the Castrol Touring Car Series.

Mitchell Boyd's first Florida winter tour - Orlando January 16-17, 2010

Jan 20/10 - BURLINGTON, ON - Mitchell Boyd opened the first two rounds of the 2010 Florida Winter Tour surrounded by adversity. Poor qualifying in round 1 due to a broken bead lock and flat tire resulted in Mitchell having to start at the back of the 32-driver Rotax Micro Max field.

While trying to get used to the new engine and chassis combination Mitchell proved to be quite competitive. Mitchell finished round 1 by battling his way to 17th position overall.

Round 2 qualifying started similar to round 1. Mitchell qualified in 14th position even though he suffered a bent tie rod during the session.

Off the start in the pre-final of round 2, approximately 10 other drivers passed Mitchell due too congestion in turn 1. Mitchell fought back from 3rd last too end up 14th for the session.

During the final Mitchell was collected in an incident on the track that allowed 5 drivers to pass. With 9 laps remaining Mitchell caught and passed each one of those drivers to finish 17th overall position while setting his fastest lap times of the weekend.

It was truly a fantastic weekend. This weekend has left us with many great memories as well as some things to work on.

Mitchell would like to thank Extreme Measures.ca Kustom Paint, Portcullis Realty Corp., Inside Track Motorsport News, Pserra Racing, Birel Chassis, Rotax Engines, Mojo Tires, Mom & Dad, all the other competitors and the Florida Winter Tour for making this all possible.

USF2000 Inks Agreement with Performance Friction Brakes

PALMETTO, Fla., Jan. 20 - Fans may not realize the long-standing relationship, but racing insiders will nod knowingly when they learn that Performance Friction Corporation (PFC), the manufacturer of Performance Friction brakes, has agreed to support the Indy Racing League's newest series.

PFC's president used to race Formula 2000 cars like those featured in the USF2000 National Championship presented by Cooper Racing Tires and powered by Mazda.

Fourteen years ago this month that executive, Don Burgoon, qualified tenth and finished 15th in a F2000 race at the brand-new Walt Disney World Speedway in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. that was a support event for the IRL's inaugural Indy 200.

At this year's USF2000 season opener March 27-28 on the street circuit in another city in Florida, St. Petersburg, each U.S. Formula 2000 car will sport a decal for Burgoon's company. That's because today it was announced that Performance Friction will be the official provider of brake components for the series.

The top class, the Championship class, will use Performance Friction brake pads and rotors this year and add its new aluminum brake caliper in 2011, according to Dan Andersen, president and chief executive officer of Andersen Promotions, which administers the USF2000 series for the IRL. The "B" class, called the National class, will use Performance Friction brake pads exclusively.

Performance Friction, which is based in Clover, S.C. and has additional offices in Novi, Mich.; Australia; England and Japan, will also present an award at the series' year-end awards ceremony.

"Don Burgoon drove an F2000 car in our USF2000 series back in the 1990s,"
Andersen noted. "I have used his products for everything I have done in racing, from F2000 [both club and pro] to Star Mazda and Firestone Indy Lights, and I know that they are by far the best brake components for racing applications in the world. I want them in our series because PFC is the best, and I am delighted they want to be here with us as well."
Performance Friction brakes are the standard of excellence in high-performance vehicles, commercial fleets and street vehicles. Hundreds of races and more than 1,500 championships have been won on Performance Friction Carbon Metallic(r) pads. Last year alone over 120 racing champions all over the world drove to victory on Performance Friction brakes.

Fleet maintenance managers for both on-road and off-road applications also rely on Performance Friction brakes, which are 100 percent American made at the company's 200,000-square-foot plant in South Carolina. The company supplies brake pads and rotors for domestic and international markets, major automotive retailers including Auto Zone and Pep Boys, and thousands of brake installers through local distributor networks.
For more information see its Web site at performancefriction.com.

Sanctioned by the Indy Racing League (IRL), the USF2000 National Championship is one of only two series that are part of both the IRL's Road to Indy ladder system and the MAZDASPEED Motorsports driver development program. The series' 2010 season will open with a doubleheader March 27-28 on the street circuit in St. Petersburg, Fla. in support of an IZOD IndyCar Series headliner.

For more information on the series, see usf2000.com or call (941) 723-3900.
　
About Mazda:
On any given weekend there are more Mazdas on the road courses of America than any other brand of vehicle. MX-5 Miata, RX-8, MAZDA3, MAZDA6, RX-7 and other vintage Mazda models are all popular race cars because every Mazda has the soul of a sports car. In fact, the largest road-racing class in the world is Spec Miata. With more than 2,500 first- and second-generation Miatas tearing up America's racetracks, it the most-raced production car in the world. Mazda's involvement in motorsports extends to its relationship with one of the world's premier road courses, Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, Calif., and the Skip Barber Schools for driving and racing.

Celebrating its 40th anniversary in the United States in 2010, Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif. It oversees the sales, marketing, parts business and customer service of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario. _Operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

About Cooper Tire & Rubber Company:
Cooper Tire & Rubber Company is a global company that specializes in the design, manufacture, marketing and sales of passenger car and light truck tires and subsidiaries that specialize in medium truck, motorcycle and racing tires. With headquarters in Findlay, Ohio, Cooper Tire has manufacturing, sales, distribution, technical and design facilities within its family of companies located in 10 countries around the world. For more information, visit Cooper Tire's Web site at coopertire.com.

About Performance Friction:
Performance Friction brakes are the standard of excellence in high-performance vehicles, commercial fleets and street vehicles. Hundreds of races and more than 1,500 championships have been won on Performance Friction Carbon Metallic(r) pads. Last year alone over 120 racing champions all over the world drove to victory on Performance Friction brakes.
Fleet maintenance managers for both on-road and off-road applications also rely on Performance Friction brakes, which are 100 percent American made at the company's 200,000-square-foot plant in South Carolina. The company supplies brake pads and rotors for domestic and international markets, major automotive retailers including Auto Zone and Pep Boys, and thousands of brake installers through local distributor networks.

Canadian Motorsports Expo: Official Show Program

The free, online version of the Official Program of the 2010 Canadian Motorsports Expo is located here. The show takes place this coming weekend (Jan. 22-24, 2010) at The International Centre, adjacent to Toronto's Pearson Airport.

The piece includes schedules for the Canadian Tire Stage, the many racing seminars, bios for star attractions like Daytona 500 winner / NASCAR champ Matt Kenseth, IndyCar star Paul Tracy, Canadian racing legend Ron Fellows, former F1 / Indy Car racer Derek Daly, and the Duhamels; Canada's first family of motorcycle racing.

The Official CME Program also has a feature on Mosport International Raceway - which is set to kick off its 50th Anniversary Season of racing - with a celebration on Sunday at the CME.

Also included is a profile on the what you can see at the Canadian Motor Speedway booth - including a chance to meet with its project managers. You'll also find an exhibitor list and show map inside the program.

Check out the program and we'll see you at the show!

American Canadian Tour cancels 2010 date slated for Capital City Speedway

Waterbury, VT – The Série ACT Castrol event scheduled for Capital City Speedway in Ottawa, ON has been canceled and will not be rescheduled in 2010. "There was a change in management over the past month, and since the previous lessee had scheduled the event for June 12, 2010 we have carried it on our schedule since last November. The new management has decided to step away from the touring type events and we will respect that decision," said Darla Hartt, Vice President and Director of Administration for the American Canadian Tour which has sanctioned races at the speedway for the past three seasons.

In a related story, it was agreed that the Late Model division at Capital City will continue to operate as an ACT affiliate track. The Late Model rules follow the ACT regional universal rule business model.

"We were happy to find out that 'Cap City' will continue on with the Late Model formula we have been working on in recent years," said Tom Curley, President of ACT. "We will include the track's competitors in our overall ACT program, including the ACT Invitational at the New Hampshire Speedway on September 18, 2010. We are very hopeful that the ACT Castrol Series will return to Capital City Speedway in 2011."

The popular Quebec Series will open the 2010 season at the Autodrome Ste. Eustache outside Montreal on Saturday, May 22, 2010, with the first of a scheduled 11 Championship events throughout Quebec.

For additional information contact the ACT office at 802.244.6963 or media@acttour.com 

Canadian Motor Speedway project team coming to the CME

Thanks to the Canadian Motor Speedway team for the press release they circulated to their email list last night, letting people know about their participation at this weekend's Canadian Motorsports Expo.

You can see an online version of their e-blast here. While on their message, you can sign up for future mailings about this exciting project planned for Canadian soil. The CMS's website is: www.cdnmotorspeedway.com

For more information on the Cdn. Motorsports Expo and to sign up for the show's e-newsletter, visit: www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com.

Kawartha Speedway racer Mike Wallace to display at the CME

PHOTO: Kawartha Speedway Racer Mike Wallace - shown here in the Mini Stock he drove to the championship in 2009 - will be at the Canadian Motorsports Expo this weekend to unveil his new Late Model (photo by Jim Clarke / Clarke Motorsports Communications).

There’s no question the 4th Annual Canadian Motorsports Expo will be catering to some fairly excited fans and drivers, anxious for the 2010 season to commence. Though perhaps none are more excited than 2009 Kawartha Speedway Mini Stock champion Mike 'The Blueprint' Wallace. That’s because the third-generation wheelman will be publicly unveiling his brand new Late Model for the first time, at the CME.

“I couldn’t tell you how excited I am to be heading to the Expo. My team and I sat down and tried to think of the best way possible to debut this car, when we heard about the Racer’s Corral, we knew that’s exactly what we were looking for,” Beamed Wallace.

Wallace will join several other drivers who will also be displaying their months of hard work in the form of their rides for 2010. The fans couldn’t be happier, as internet forums and race shops alike are buzzing with those excited to catch a glimpse of the cars that will be tearing up dirt and asphalt across the province in just a few short months.

“I’m looking forward to meeting the fans at the Expo," continued Wallace. "The support that people have shown me for the past 2 seasons has been mind blowing, now I’m excited to give back, meet the fans, sign some autographs and let them take some pictures of the car. It’s going to be a great weekend.”

'The Blueprint' will be returning to Kawartha Speedway, the site of his 2008 Mini Stock Rookie of the Year title and 2009 Mini Stock Championship, to compete against some of the province’s brightest Late Model stars, like Brandon Watson, “Old School” Dan McHattie, Dave Morgan and others. And while rubbing fenders with the province’s elite seems intimidating, Wallace is ready to meet the challenge head-on.

For Wallace, “Summer can’t come quick enough.”

Words by Spencer Lewis. Mike Wallace 2009 photo by Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications

For information on last-minute space in the Racer's Corral, email Glenn Butt at glenn@canadianmotorsportsexpo.com.

Tony George resigns board memberships of Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Hulman & Company

The Board of Directors of Hulman & Company and affiliated companies, including the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, has received the resignation of Anton H. “Tony” George from the board of directors effective immediately, according to Mari Hulman George, chairman.

“As members of his family, we are sorry to see Tony leave,” said Mrs. George. “We are grateful for his service to our company as a board member and of course for formerly serving as CEO and president of our companies. I speak for our whole family in wishing him well.

“All of us had hoped that Tony would continue to serve on the board, and we made that clear to him. We are disappointed with his decision to step down despite our wishes.”

His resignation removes George from any remaining role in Hulman & Company, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Indy Racing League, IMS Productions and other affiliated companies. His term as CEO of the family companies ended June 30, 2009. He continues to be involved in racing through his ownership of Vision Racing, a competitor in the IZOD IndyCar Series of the Indy Racing League.

The board vacancy will be addressed at a later date. In addition to Mari Hulman George, board members include Nancy George, Josie George, Kathi George-Conforti and Jack Snyder.

Mari Hulman George said she is very pleased with the direction of the company and the progress that has been made during the last six months.

“Our company is healthy and is weathering the economic recession well,” she said. “Jeff Belskus, president and CEO of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and Curt Brighton, president and CEO of Hulman & Company, are both doing excellent jobs in guiding our companies through this difficult time. Many hard decisions have been made, and now our companies are well positioned for the future.”

Media Contact: Fred J. Nation, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, (317) 492-6752, fnation@brickyard.com
World Wide Web: http://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com

Canadian Tire Stage to be the focus of the Canadian Motorsports Expo

The Canadian Tire Stage will be the Centre of Attention at the Canadian Motorsports Expo

Forums featuring star racers, the motorsports media, the kick-off of celebrations heralding the start of Mosport’s 50th anniversary season, an alternative fuels forum and much more at the CME

Click Here to see the full Canadian Tire Stage and CME Racing Seminars schedule

(TORONTO, ON // JANUARY 19, 2010) While there will be many tracks, series, racing vehicles, suppliers and vendor displays all throughout Toronto’s International Centre this coming weekend at the Canadian Motorsports Expo, it will be tempting for showgoers to stick close to The Canadian Tire Stage. From Friday through Sunday (Jan. 22-24), it will be the CME’s focal point, offering race fans non-stop opportunities to interact with Canadian and international racing stars and motorsports personalities, like Matt Kenseth, Paul Tracy, Ron Fellows and the Duhamels.

“Canadian Tire is proud to present The Canadian Tire Stage at the Canadian Motorsports Expo,” said Susan Lute, Strategic Marketing Manager | Automotive, Canadian Tire Corporation. “The Canadian Tire Stage will be the centre of activity at the CME, playing host to the many forums, presentations and driver autograph sessions that will take place during the three-day show. Canadian race fans are Canadian Tire customers and we look forward to connecting with them at this year’s CME.”

“We’re honoured to welcome Canadian Tire as the presenting sponsor of The Canadian Tire Stage at the CME,” said David Weber, of the CME and Inside Track Communications. “From their support of grassroots racers across Canada to their title sponsorship of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, Canadian Tire has a great history of supporting Canadian motorsports. Their sponsorship of The Canadian Tire Stage is contributing to an incredible show for the fans.”

FRIDAY

Starting Friday evening (at 7 p.m.), The Canadian Tire Stage will – for the second year in a row – play host to Spencer Lewis’ Ontario Asphalt Short Track Power Rankings presentations. Lewis, an Inside Track Motorsport News contributor, will present awards to the province’s top asphalt oval racing stars. Last year, drivers like Steve Robblee, Jeff Hanley, Ron Sheridan, Stompin’ Tom Walters and others were honoured. Show up Friday to see who makes the list this year!

SATURDAY

Action on The Canadian Tire Stage heats up Saturday with several major events. The schedule kicks off at 10:45 a.m. when Canadian racing legend Ron Fellows hosts ‘Ron & Friends,’ a bench-racing forum featuring Bill Brack, Robin Buck, Daniel Morad, Bryan Muir, Robert Wickens and Ken Wilden. Join Ron and his panel of speedy friends in a wide-ranging motorsports discussion.

At noon, several industry experts will take part in the Alternative Fuels Forum. American Le Mans Series CEO Scott Atherton and Canadian MP Dan McTeague will be joined by others in a discussion about the current and future trends in racing fuels as they relate to ‘green’ initiatives.

The fourth-annual ‘Meet the Media’ forum kicks off at 1:15 p.m. on The Canadian Tire Stage. Featuring many of Canada’s top motorsports journalists, this interactive fan forum is a great opportunity to get a ‘behind the scenes’ perspective from experts like Norris McDonald (Toronto Star / Wheels), Dean McNulty (Sun Media), Erik Tomas (Raceline Radio), Jeff Pappone (Globe & Mail), Tim Miller (Hamilton Spectator), Hugh Burrill (City TV) and Russ Bond (Inside Track / CanadianRacers.com).

Once the ‘press’ forum wraps up, reigning Daytona 500 winner and former NASCAR Sprint Cup champion Matt Kenseth will take to The Canadian Tire Stage to participate in a Q&A session with the fans, before signing as many autographs as possible. The NASCAR veteran is scheduled to be on stage from 2:30 to 4 p.m.

A NASCAR Canadian Tire Series driver autograph session, featuring many of the top stars from Canada’s national stock car championship, takes place from 4:45 to 5:30 p.m. That will be followed by a Q&A / Autograph session starring Yvon, Miguel and Mario Duhamel; Canada’s First Family of Motorcycle Racing. Saturday’s action on The Canadian Tire Stage wraps up with the Inside Track Readers’ Choice Awards presentations. Many of Canada’s top and future racers – as voted by the readers of Inside Track Motorsport News – will be on hand (starting at 7 p.m.) to receive their awards, for excelling in stock cars, road racing, motorcycles, rallying, karting and drag racing.

SUNDAY

Sunday’s Canadian Tire Stage program opens, at 11 a.m., with another on-stage Q&A / Autograph session with the Duhamels. Next up, Canadian road racing star Paul Tracy will participate in a Fan Q&A and autograph session with CME showgoers. The former IndyCar champ, who is popular for his wide-open driving style and candid comments, will be on The Canadian Tire Stage from 1:30 to 2:45.

And then at 3 p.m., Tracy, Ron Fellows and several others, including Horst Kroll, Norris McDonald and Doctor Hugh Scully will take part in ceremonies and celebrations kicking off the upcoming 50th anniversary season of racing at the legendary Mosport International Raceway. Almost every famous Canadian racer and industry member has a personal story about how Mosport helped shape their careers. Be sure not to miss the many interesting tributes and tales about Canada’s Home of Motorsports.

ABOUT THE CME: The Canadian Motorsports Expo is a three-day celebration of Canadian racing that runs January 22 to 24 at the International Centre (6900 Airport Road in Mississauga). The show is powered by Inside Track Motorsport News and supported by companies like Lucas Oil Canada, NASCAR Canada, Mosport International Raceway and Canadian Tire. In addition to booths and racing vehicles representing the entire spectrum of Canadian motorsports, the show is loaded with seminars and forums to entertain and inform racers and fans alike. Star drivers Matt Kenseth, Paul Tracy, Ron Fellows, Derek Daly and Jessica Zemken will be at the CME to sign autographs and meet the fans. Please check the show’s website for updates and changes.

For more information about the Canadian Motorsports Expo, visit www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com, call Glenn Butt at (905) 721-1762 or email him at glenn@canadianmotorsportsexpo.com. You can reach co-promoters Inside Track at (416) 962-7223 or email expo@insidetracknews.com.

- 30 -

Lonnie Sommerville Florida bound for double duty action

The typical off-season for Canadian racing is a long six month process for the drivers to suffer through. Harsh winters that bring snow and freezing temperatures easily force drivers and their teams to find any opportunity to get back on the track in a much warmer region even if that means making a nearly 1,700 mile trip to Florida in order to do so.

Lonnie Sommerville and his Saint John , New Brunswick based race team will make the most out of the trip as they plan to compete in a double duty style format, first racing in the first PASS National event of 2010 at the New Smyrna Speedway Saturday January 30th. Then with just a few days in between, the team will stay down to make their first ever New Smyrna World Series of Asphalt speed weeks appearance on Friday February 5th. The event includes a grueling eight days of racing for competitors in the super late model division.

“It will be really nice to get away from the weather and get back behind the wheel of a race car again. For me, I can’t get down south fast enough because I get bored pretty easily when there’s no racing going on, even though I’ve got a lot going on in the shop these days working on customers’ race cars,” said Sommerville. “Racing down at New Smyrna will be a whole new experience for me. I have never been on a track that has the speed in it like that place. It should be a pretty awesome experience but I’m confident we can run well enough to have a shot at getting our first win on U.S. soil.”

Even though the Lonnie Sommerville Racing team doesn’t have their exact 2010 racing plans 100% decided on, one option the team would like to keep open is the possibility of capturing the 2010 PASS National championship. The five race series, which kicks off with the 150 lap Florida Winterfest event, will determine a lot for future events.

“Depending on how we finish Winterfest will decide if we will continue on for the national championship. With the series only being a five race series you can win or lose a championship in the first race. Our goal like always is to win but if we can leave there with a solid top five finish that would at least put us in a position to compete for the title,” added Lonnie.

Stay tuned to www.lonniesommerville.com throughout the 2010 season for all the latest news and information regarding Lonnie Sommerville Racing. For public relations and website information contact Chris Ragle with Tex Motorsports Marketing at cragle02@yahoo.com or call 704-706-3666.

From Tex Motorsports Marketing // www.texmotorsports.com // Contact: Chris Ragle

Everybody into the (Fantasy) Pool!

Bill Johnson is accepting entries into his world famous Inside Track Pit Board Forum NASCAR Fantasy Pool. If you want to join, here's the thread. To participate, you need to submit an application for membership (it's Free!). The only rule is you have to use your full name to register. Good luck to all!

Drag Racing: ADRL releases updated 2010 schedule

Today, the American Drag Racing League (ADRL) released an updated 2010 schedule featuring a return to familiar territory and a pair of date changes for established races.

“Creating a season schedule is one of the most challenging tasks we face every year as there are so many variables and individuals to consider,” ADRL President and CEO Kenny Nowling said. “Ultimately, every scheduling decision is reached based on how it affects our racers and track partners and our ability to put on the best show possible for ADRL fans. I think the scheduling changes we’re announcing today reflect that process well and will result in a stronger 2010 ADRL season all around.”  

In order to allow ADRL race teams additional testing opportunities, this year’s season-opening event, the ADRL Safety-Kleen Dragpalooza VI at Houston Raceway Park, will be held Mar. 19-20, one week later than originally planned. Also moving from July to May 21-22, will be the ADRL U.S. Drags III at Virginia Motorsports Park in Petersburg, Virginia.

“We visited Virginia Motorsports Park for the first time last year and it was one of our most successful events,” ADRL Executive Vice President Jeff Fortune said. “Moving the date forward, though, helps open up the schedule in what was a tight second half of the year and should make it easier on our teams’ and fans’ travel plans. Plus, VMP in the spring should provide some great weather at a track that is capable of producing some incredible runs.”

This year also will mark the return of the ADRL to Summit Motorsports Park, as the ADRL Ohio Drags IV will be contested Sep. 24-25, representing the third time in four years the race will be held at the Norwalk, Ohio, facility, as well as the final opportunity for racers to earn points toward qualifying for the ADRL’s championship-deciding Speedtech Battle for the Belts the next month in Ennis, Texas.

“We repeatedly heard from our race teams that they loved racing at Summit Motorsports Park and wanted to return as soon as possible,” Fortune said. “It took some serious negotiations, but we’re very pleased to announce we were able to come to a multi-year agreement with the Bader family and are already looking forward to again sampling some of their famous $1 ice creams.”

The rest of the ADRL’s previously scheduled events remain intact on their original dates, creating a nine-event 2010 schedule for the ADRL’s sixth season.

2010 ADRL National Event Schedule

Mar. 19-20                  ADRL Safety-Kleen                      Houston Raceway Park
                                      Dragpalooza VI                             Baytown, Texas

Apr. 9-10                    ADRL Hardee’s                               South Georgia Motorsports Park
                                     Georgia Drags VI                             Cecil, Georgia

May 21-22                  ADRL                                                Virginia Motorsports Park
                                     U.S. Drags III                                    Petersburg, Virginia

June 11-12                 ADRL Ford Drive One                   U.S. 131 Motorsports Park
                                     Summer Drags VI                            Martin, Michigan

July 2-3                       ADRL Hardee’s                               Heartland Park Topeka
                                     Independence Drags IV                   Topeka, Kansas

Aug. 6-7                      ADRL Hardee’s                               Gateway International Raceway
                                     Gateway Drags III                            Madison, Illinois

Sep. 10-11                  ADRL Flowmaster                          Rockingham Dragway
                                     Dragstock VII                                  Rockingham, North Carolina

Sep. 24-25                  ADRL                                                Summit Motorsports Park
                                     Ohio Drags IV                                  Norwalk, Ohio

Oct. 22-23                  LenMar Motorsports                      Texas Motorplex
                        ADRL World Finals VI              Ennis, Texas

PHOTO CUTLINE: The American Drag Racing League last visited Summit Motorsports Park in 2008, but plans to return Sep. 24-25, 2010, for the ADRL Ohio Drags IV at the famous Norwalk, Ohio, facility.  

ABOUT THE ADRL: Based in O’Fallon, Missouri, the American Drag Racing League is the world’s premier sanctioning body for the sport of eighth-mile drag racing. The professional categories featured in the ADRL are Extreme Pro Stock, Pro Extreme Motorcycle, Extreme 10.5, Pro Nitrous, and Pro Extreme, the quickest doorslammer class in all of drag racing. The 2010 ADRL schedule includes nine national events run throughout the United States. For more information on the ADRL, visit online at www.ADRL.us

From Ian Tocher // VP of Publications // ADRL // ian@adrl.us // www.adrl.us

Yokohama Tire Corporation’s 2010 Motorsports Program Looks Like a Winner

FULLERTON, CA (Jan. 18, 2010) – In 2009, Yokohama Tire Corporation had many major motorsports successes, including repeat championships in off-road racing’s SCORE and SNORE series, and a season-long, strong run in ALMS. However, Yokohama’s most newsworthy motorsports accomplishment was to shatter the eco-racing barrier by introducing the orange oil -infused ADVAN® ENV-R1™, the first true environmentally-friendly tire used in a racing series.

All that and more will continue in 2010 as Yokohama’s motorsports program shifts into high gear, according to Mark Chung, director, corporate strategy and planning.

"From the historic introduction of our orange oil compound ENV-R1 race tires in the Patrón GT3 Challenge by Yokohama series to the repeat off-road desert series championships for Heidi Steele in SCORE and her husband Cameron Steele in SNORE, 2009 was a banner year," Chung said. "And we expect even greater success in 2010. For example, we’ll be introducing an even more eco-friendly tire for the Patrón GT3 Challenge by Yokohama at Sebring in March, one that will further reduce the petroleum use in the tire. The orange oil technology in the ENV-R1 reduced petroleum inputs by 15 percent and increased recyclability while performing at the same level as previous compounds. All the Porsche GT3 racers raved about it. The new tire will be even better."

All told, Yokohama will participate in six race series during 2010, ranging from sports cars to off-road trucks. Series include:

Patrón GT3 Challenge by Yokohama
This is the second year Yokohama is sponsoring the seven-race series. A new and improved version of the ENV-R tire will be the series’ spec tire and will be on a fleet of Porsche 911 GT3 race cars at leading U.S. tracks such as Sebring, Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca and Road Atlanta.
Once again, there will be a field of up to 35 cars vying for championships in two divisions: Platinum (for 2010 GT3 Porsches only) and Gold (2005½ – 2009 GT3 Porsches).
The series begins at the 12 Hours of Sebring, March 18-20. For details, visit http://www.imsachallenge.com/ .

2010 Patrón GT3 Challenge by Yokohama Schedule March 18-20: 58th Annual Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, Sebring International Raceway, Sebring, Florida May 21-23: Monterey Sports Car Championships, Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, Monterey, California June 26-27: New Jersey Race, New Jersey Motorsports Park, Millville, New Jersey July 9-11: Utah Grand Prix, Miller Motorsports Park, Salt Lake City, Utah August 6-7: Mid Ohio Sports Car Challenge, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Lexington, Ohio August 20-27: Road Race Showcase, Road America, Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin September 29-October 2: 13th Annual Petit Le Mans, Road Atlanta, Braselton, Georgia

American Le Mans Series (ALMS)
The big news this season is that Yokohama and RSR are partnering to field a Jaguar XKR GT2 entry, which will run on ADVAN A005® racing slicks. The No. 33 machine will be piloted by Trans-Am racing legend Paul Gentilozzi and sports car veteran Marc Goossens. They’ll be battling against the likes of Ferrari, Porsche, BMW, Corvette, Viper and Ford. Plans are for more Jaguar XKR GT cars to be added to the lineup during the season, as the team is in the process of building additional cars around the strong and rigid Jaguar XKR production vehicle that underpins the XKR GT racer.

The nine-race series begins with the 12 hours of Sebring, March 18-20, and travels to many top courses, including Sebring and Road Atlanta, where Yokohama is the "Official Tire." For details, visit the ALMS web site at http://www.americanlemans.com/ .

ALMS GT Challenge (GTC) Class
Yokohama’s orange oil-infused race tires will be campaigned in this new class within ALMS. The GTC class provides another rung on the ladder series within ALMS. A field of approximately 10 cars will compete at all ALMS events, including the endurance races such as the 12 Hours of Sebring and Petit Le Mans. More details are at http://www.imsaracing.net/ .

2010 American Le Mans Series (ALMS) Schedule March 18-20: 58th Annual Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, Sebring International Raceway, Sebring, Florida April 16-17: Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, Long Beach, California May 20-23: American Le Mans Series Monterey presented by Patrón, Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, Monterey, California July 9-11: Larry H. Miller Dealerships Utah Grand Prix, Miller Motorsports Park, Salt Lake City, Utah July 23-24: American Le Mans Northeast Grand Prix, Lime Rock Park, Lakeville, Connecticut August 5-7: Mid Ohio Sports Car Challenge, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Lexington, Ohio August 20-22: Road Race Showcase, Road America, Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin August 27-29: Mobil 1 Grand Prix of Mosport, Mosport International Raceway, Bowmanville, Ontario, Canada September 29-October 2: 13th Annual Petit Le Mans, Road Atlanta, Braselton, Georgia

SCORE International Off Road Racing
Yokohama-sponsored Heidi Steele, the three-time titlist and defending Class 6 SCORE (Southern California Off Road Enthusiasts) champion is back, along with her husband, Trophy Truck class veteran Cameron Steele, a two-time SCORE Person of the Year and TV commentator. Other Yokohama-sponsored drivers competing this season include Justin "Bean" Smith, Brent Parkhouse, Josh Daniel, Adam Ashcraft and Rick St. John.

In 2008, Heidi etched her name in off-road history by being the first woman to win two major truck championships in one season – the Best in the Desert and SCORE. She also was named Dirt Sports magazine’s 2008 Driver of the Year, becoming the first female to win the coveted award. Heidi’s Ford Ranger runs on off-the-shelf Geolandar M/T+® tires.

Cameron’s ride is the No. 16 800-horsepower Geiser Brothers Chevrolet truck, mounted with 37-inch Yokohama Geolandar A/T-S® R tires specially engineered for extreme off-road conditions. At press time, the Steeles were at the first race of the season, the SCORE Laughlin Desert Challenge. The next race is the San Felipe 250 in Baja Mexico, March 12-14. For details, go to http://www.score-international.com/ .

2010 SCORE Desert Championship Series Schedule January 15-17: 16th SCORE Laughlin Desert Challenge, Laughlin, Nevada March 12-14: 24th Tecate SCORE San Felipe 250, San Felipe, Baja, Mexico June 4-6: 42nd Tecate SCORE Baja 500, Ensenada, Baja, Mexico September 10-12: 15th SCORE Terrible's Primm 300, Primm, Nevada November 17-21: 43rd Tecate SCORE Baja 1000, Ensenada to La Paz - Peninsula Run

SNORE
Two-time Unlimited Truck Class defending series champion Cameron Steele will pilot the 800-horsepower Geiser Brothers Chevrolet truck fitted with specially-engineered 37-inch Yokohama Geolandar A/T-S® R tires at every SNORE (Southern Nevada Off Road Enthusiasts) event during the six-race 2010 season. Also returning is Steele’s Desert Assassins teammate Justin "Bean" Smith (riding on Yokohama Super Diggers). Smith won the Class 12 season title last year.
First race is the Battle at Primm, February 19-21. Details can be found at http://www.snoreracing.net/ .
2010 Southern Nevada Off Road Enthusiasts (SNORE) Schedule February 19-21: Battle at Primm, Primm Nevada March 25-28:General Tire Mint 400, Las Vegas, Nevada May 7-9: Dusty Times 250, Caliente, Nevada July 30-Aug 1: KC HiLiTES Midnight Special, Ridgecrest, California October 29-31: SNORE 250, Primm, Nevada December 10-12: Rage at the River, Laughlin, Nevada

Lucas Oil Off-Road Racing Series
Yokohama is expanding its off-road activities by being an associate sponsor of the Lucas Oil Series. The eight-race series combines the Midwest tradition of short course off-road racing with a West Coast influence and features seven classes. The season kicks off March 6-7 at the Lake Elsinore Motorsports Complex in Lake Elsinore, California. For more information, visit http://www.lucasoiloffroad.com/ .

2010 Lucas Oil Off-Road Racing Series Schedule March 6-7: Lake Elsinore Motorsports Complex, Lake Elsinore, California April 10-11: Speedworld Off-Road Park, Surprise, Arizona May 22-23: Primm Valley Motorsports Complex, Primm, Nevada June 26-27: Miller Motorsports Park, Tooele, Utah August 7-8: Lake Elsinore Motorsports Complex, Lake Elsinore, California September 18-19: Speedworld Off-Road Park, Surprise, Arizona October 23-24: Primm Valley Motorsports Complex, Primm, Nevada December 11-12: Firebird Raceway, Phoenix, Arizona

Celebrating its 40th anniversary in the United States, Yokohama Tire Corporation is the North American manufacturing and marketing arm of Tokyo, Japan-based The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., a global manufacturing and sales company of premium tires since 1917. Servicing a network of more than 4,500 points of sale in the U.S., Yokohama Tire Corporation is a leader in technology and innovation. The company’s complete product line includes the dB Super E-spec™ the world’s first tire to use orange oil to reduce petroleum – as well as tires for high-performance, light truck, passenger car, commercial truck and bus, and off-the-road mining and construction applications. For more information on Yokohama’s extensive product line, visit http://www.yokohamatire.com/.

Yokohama is a strong supporter of the tire care and safety guidelines established by the Rubber Manufacturers Association and the National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration. Details can be found at the "Tire Safety" section at http://www.blogger.com/www.yokohamatire.com.

Brian Stewart Racing Launches Star Mazda Championship Team

ONTARIO, CANADA – Four-time Indy Lights Champions, Brian Stewart Racing announced today that they will enter a team in the Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear in 2010. “In our 45-year history, we have consistently graduated drivers through the various levels of open-wheel racing. Since 2005 we have sponsored the Brian Stewart Racing Karting Championship (BSRKC) and we recently added a USF2000 team to our Driver Development Program,” said team founder, Brian Stewart. “With the addition of our Star Mazda team, we now have a seamless series of stepping stones for a driver moving from karting right through to our Firestone Indy Lights team.”

Participants in BSR’s Star Mazda Team will compete in 13 races in 2010 and will be supported by Indy-Lights quality staff and technology. “Each driver will be supported by all of the resources of our Driver Development Program which includes many of the most skilled personnel in auto-racing,” adds BSR Business Manager, Janet Stewart. “The addition of this team provides drivers as well as sponsors with a wide spectrum of ways to get involved with one of the most respected racing teams in the industry.”

“Tommy Byrne who is one of the most intuitive drivers I have ever known,” remarks Brian, “will be providing the drivers with personal coaching and, as with our USF2000 Drivers, Jim Leo of Pit Fit will be working with them and providing the drivers with individualized fitness plans and on-going support. Winning is what we do best and we have put the resources in place to provide our drivers with every possible advantage.”

Brian Stewart has been winning races ever since he first stepped onto the track at Mosport International Raceway in 1966. “When I stood in the Winner’s Circle at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2006 and 2007, I couldn’t help but feel that it was my destiny,” observes Brian. “Once you start winning, it becomes a way of life and I don’t ever want to stop.”

BSR has had an outstanding history of winning at all levels of open-wheel auto racing in North America in which they have participated. Past drivers include well-known names such as Paul Tracy, Brian Herta, Eric Bachelart, Christiano Da Matta, Scott Maxwell and Wade Cunningham.
In addition to being mentored by Canadian Motorsports Hall of Fame Member, Brian Stewart, drivers will also be able to participate in the team’s track-side USF2000 and Firestone Indy Lights Team activities.

Space in the BSR Star Mazda Team is Limited
Space in BSR’s Star Mazda Team is limited, so those interested in becoming involved should contact Janet Stewart, BSR Business Manager, at 613-299-5003 or janet@brianstewartracing.ca right away.

Related Links:
www.brianstewartracing.ca
www.bsrkc.com
www.f2000.com
www.starmazda.com
www.indycar.com
www.crashorbyrne.com
www.pitfit.com
Janet Stewart-Lussier – BSR 2010 – 613-299-5003