NASCAR DRIVER PIERRE BOURQUE TRAVELING TO AFGHANISTAN

March 20, 2010. NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Driver Pierre Bourque has traveled to many parts of the world, however his trip departing on March 21^st is one he is “incredibly excited” about. Bourque will be part of a contingent that is traveling to the Canadian Forces Base in Kandahar, Afghanistan on a goodwill tour to see first hand the work that is being done by the brave men and women of the Canadian Forces.

Pierre Bourque was invited by General Walter Natynczyk, Chief of Defence Staff of the Canadian Forces and feels incredibly privileged to be making this journey of a lifetime. “I am extremely grateful for this opportunity presented to me by General Natynczyk and the Canadian Forces. It will be a great honour to travel overseas and be part of this group that is traveling to Kandahar and see how hard our brave men and women are working to make a difference in the lives of those in Afghanistan”.

The group will leave on Sunday March 21^st and spend approximately a week at Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan. During their visit they will have the opportunity to see how this enormous military operation involving a number of countries operates. “The chance to go on this tour is something only a select few people are able to take advantage of” said Bourque. “We all read the stories about the work our troops are doing over there, and the progress they are making. We’ve seen video clips of what’s happening but to have this kind of experience will be quite humbling I’m sure” he added.

Pierre Bourque is also bringing a bit of NASCAR with him to Kandahar. “I’ve packed the complete DVD collection of the 2009 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series races and will be leaving them for the troops. As they rotate through their tours of duty I hope they can enjoy the racing and a little taste of home” said the series driver.

During this tour Bourque would also like to encourage all NCATS race fans, team members and officials who wish to personally express appreciation and thanks to those serving in Afghanistan to contact him directly while he is there. You can email him at Pierre@bourque.com and he will be pleased to pass along your well wishes. Pierre will also provide updates of his trip where possible on the website http://www.bourque.com/.

Attached Photo: Pierre Bourque, driver of the #00 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Entry

About Pierre Bourque: Once again this year Pierre Bourque will participate in select events of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series. New for 2010 Bourque will pilot the #00 Dodge prepared by DJK racing. Pierre will be supported this year by Aaron’s, Mahindra Tractors, Telus Mobility and Mohawk Internet Technology. For more information you should go to http://www.pierrebourque.net/

SUBARU RALLY TEAM USA SIGNS VP RACING FUELS AS OFFICIAL FUEL SUPPLIER

SAN ANTONIO, TX (March 8, 2010) Subaru Rally Team USA today announced the selection of VP Racing Fuels products for its 2010 rally campaign. The partnership includes VP’s designation as the Official Fuel of Subaru Rally Team USA.

Subaru Rally Team USA, managed by Subaru technical partner Vermont SportsCar, is headed by four-time defending Rally America National Champion Travis Pastrana and BMX legend Dave Mirra. The team is scheduled to compete in the six-event 2010 Rally America National Championship, ESPN’s X Games 16 Rally Car Racing event as well as Rally America’s three all-new European-style RallyCross exhibition events this fall.

“VP has been extremely successful in every form of motorsport they have entered and their international blends of rally fuel are second to none,” said Lance Smith, President of Vermont SportsCar. ”The decision to switch to VP Fuels was made after we assessed the power their rally car products make and learning of the technical and developmental support VP could provide our team. We are looking forward to both the technical and performance gains that VP can provide our team as we aim to win a fifth straight Rally America National Championship title.”
Four-time consecutive and defending Rally America National Champion Travis Pastrana and his teammate Dave Mirra, the 2008 Rally America Rookie of the Year, both return to Subaru Rally Team USA and will pilot 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STI rally cars. Vermont SportsCar will be working closely with VP Racing Fuels on the build and development of the next evolution of their Rally America Open Class specification Subaru Impreza WRX STI rally car to maximize engine performance and power output.

“Rally racing is probably the most challenging and most exciting form of car racing on the planet,” said Jim Kelly, VP’s Regional Manager for Europe and the Northeast United States. “VP fuels championship-winning teams in all types of racing and while we are in a lot of rally cars in Europe, it will be particularly gratifying to see the Subaru rally cars of Travis [Pastrana] and Dave [Mirra] flying down rally stages with VP in the USA.”

VP is the Official Fuel of American LeMans Series, NHRA, SuperDirtCar, World of Outlaws Sprint Car and Late Model Series among many others, fueling championships in North America and around the globe for more than 35 years. Now recognized by many as the world leader in race fuel technology, VP maintains a catalog of nearly 70 fuel blends and a growing roster of VP-fueled champions across the entire spectrum of motorsports. More information is available online at vpracingfuels.com.

Subaru Rally Team USA heads next to the second round in the Rally America Championship series, the 100 Acre Wood Rally, scheduled on February 26 - 27 in southern Missouri. Subaru Rally Team USA is proudly supported by Subaru of America, Inc., Subaru Tecnica International (STI), Subaru Performance Tuning (SPT), DC Shoes, BFGoodrich Tires, RECARO, Vision X, Alpinestars, Motul, Exedy, VP Fuels and Vermont SportsCar.

For more information on Subaru Rally Team USA, as well as exclusive photo and video galleries visit rally.subaru.com and for the latest news follow the team on Twitter: twitter.com/srtusa.

Modular Oil Fillers by PRW

These uniquely designed modular fillers may be installed in nearly any valve cover configuration without the need to weld in place. This design allows the installer to select the most desirable location for their particular application. Once identified, the bore hole is drilled and the bung is installed with a threaded retaining ring held in place with a “set” screw. The set includes “O” rings for the bung and the threaded “cap” to prevent seepage and oil loss. There is no need to re-polish, re-anodize, or repaint the valve covers; a significant cost savings. Each of these billet fillers are easily installed, available in black, silver, red, or blue anodized finishes, and includes PRW Threadlocker. MSRP: $24.50. For more information, please contact PRW at (714) 792-1000 or online at http://www.prw-usa.com/.

CSC Racing to open Saturday March 20 & 27

In response to demand from its customers, CSC Racing Products Inc. will
throw open its doors on two upcoming Saturdays (March 20 & 27, from 9 a.m. until noon).

CSC Racing is located in Newmarket, Ontario. For directions and more
info, visit www.cscracing.com.

Toyota Canada and Bass Pro Shops Celebrate Five Year Partnership with More Prizes Including New 2010 Toyota 4Runner Trail Edition

Customers can also get behind the wheel of Toyota’s current truck line-up at The Bass Pro Shops 2010 Spring Fishing Classic Ride & Drive Event

(TORONTO, ON), March 19, 2010 – Bass Pro Shops, the ultimate purveyor of outdoor adventure gear is partnering with Toyota Canada, to once again give away the ultimate outdoor adventure package including – a 2010 Toyota 4Runner Trail Edition, a $1,000 Bass Pro Shopping Spree and a Day of Fishing with Professional Angler, host of TV's Facts of Fishing and Toyota Partner Dave Mercer.

Beginning in March through to December 31, 2010 any visitor to the Rocky View Alberta or Vaughan Mills Ontario Bass Pro Shops locations can enter for a chance to win.

“We’re pleased to be joining Bass Pro Shops, for the fifth year running, this time to give away a Toyota 4Runner Trail Edition - one of the toughest off-road performance vehicles around,” said Stephen Beatty, Managing Director of Toyota Canada Inc.

Mr. Beatty added, “We’re also very excited to be delivering a new 2010 Toyota Tacoma along with a $1000 gift card from Bass Pro Shops to Mr. Switzer, the 2009 contest winner, who entered last year’s draw at the Vaughan Mills Bass Pro Shops location”.

Visitors to Bass Pro Shops can get the full off-roading experience behind the wheel of Toyota’s current line-up of trucks, including the 2010 4Runner, at the Spring Fishing Classic Ride & Drive Event running in the parking lot adjacent to the Bass Pro Shops on the following dates:

March 18-21, 2010 Bass Pro Shops Vaughan Mills, Vaughan, Ontario ·
March 25-28, 2010 Bass Pro Shops, Rocky View, Alberta

For more information on Bass Pro Shops, visit www.basspro.com and to learn more about the new 2010 4Runner, visit www.4runner.ca.

GT3 Drivers Ecstatic with Yokohama’s 2nd Generation Eco Race Tire at Sebring

FULLERTON, CA (March 18, 2010) – Months and months of testing paid off for Yokohama Tire Corporation as its second generation orange oil-infused eco race tires, the ADVAN® ENV-R2™, set track records in 2010’s first Patrón GT3 Challenge by Yokohama series race at Sebring International Raceway late Wednesday afternoon.

Ross Smith drove his Maxwell Paper Racing Porsche 911 GT3 race car to victory in the Platinum division (GT3P), besting the field by 0.198 seconds. Smith also set a track record for the GT3 class with a blistering 2:08.097 lap. AASCO Motorsports teammates Javier Quiros and Jorge Trejos finished second and third, respectively.

The GT3 class fielded 37 cars vying for championships in two divisions: Platinum (for 2010 GT3 Porsches only) and Gold (2005½ – 2009 GT3 Porsches).

In the Gold class (GT3G), Carlos Eduardo, NGT Motorsports, also set a track record in victory. Eduardo’s winning margin was 1.092 seconds and his 2:10.420 lap time was the record-breaker for GT3G. Maxwell Paper Racing’s Kendall Smith (Ross’s brother) was second, while Henrique Cisneros, NGT Motorsports, was third.

The drivers praised the ENV-R2 tires, which replaced the ADVAN® ENV-R1™ orange oil tire that debuted last year at Sebring. The ENV-R1 shattered the eco-racing barrier by becoming the first true environmentally-friendly tire used in a racing series. Now the ENV-R2s are in the spotlight.

"The tires were great right out of the box," said Ross Smith. "They ran great in cooler conditions. I tip my hat to Yokohama on these tires."

"From beginning to end, they were great tires," said Quiros. "You could go hard, back off a little bit and the tires came right back."

Added Trejos: "The tires were very nice. The lap times at the end were the same as the beginning. Thank you Yokohama."

According to Mark Chung, Yokohama director, corporate strategy and planning, "the ENV-R2 tires performed as expected, based on all our extensive test data. The drivers all said they got great results and the consistency and durability were better than the ENV-R1s. This is a great way to start the season."

Chung said the orange oil technology in the ENV-R1 reduced petroleum inputs by 15 percent while performing at the same level as previous compounds. The new ENV-R2 cut the petroleum use by 20 percent.

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.

Kia Forte Koup “R” package performance promise delivered on Yokohama tires

LANGLEY, B.C. (March 19, 2010) – The aggressive styling of the sporty new Kia Forte Koup with the “R” package promises scintillating performance, and the sophisticated nanotechnology of Yokohama S.drive tires will help the newest arrival on the sporty compact scene to deliver.

The recently announced 2010 Forte Koup “R” package (available on both EX and SX models) targets the market for performance compacts with a dealer-installed option package built around the acclaimed 2.0–litre 156 hp Koup EX and 2.4-litre 173 hp Koup SX. Exterior accents like front and side skirts and rear spoiler enhance the design’s aggressive styling, while performance is improved with the addition of features like performance air filter and sporting exhaust, a lower stance from new springs and an upper strut brace.

Yokohama S.drive ultra high performance tires mounted on 18-inch Europa R alloy wheels not only contribute to the arresting image of the Koup “R” package, they help translate the performance potential into enhanced braking and handling.

As with the other components of the Forte Koup “R” package, the Yokohama S.drive tires can be purchased as an accessory from participating Kia dealers across Canada.

The Yokohama S.drive was the first mainstream tire to benefit from the technically sophisticated nanotechnology engineered for the Yokohama ADVAN line.

“Yokohama has pioneered the use of nanotechnology in ultra high performance (UHPT) tires, and that engineering is now available in the Yokohama S.drive,” says Jonathon Karelse, marketing manager for Yokohama Tire (Canada) Inc.

A silica-based compound that conforms to the surface irregularities of the road, rather than rides up and over them, makes a major contribution to a high level of wet and dry grip. Nanotechnology manipulates the individual elements in the compound so they bond at a molecular level, creating a compound with the seemingly-contradictory virtues of great flexibility, high grip and improved durability.

"In this case, nanotechnology works to combine extremely fine silica with extremely fine, very flexible polymer,” Karelse explains. “At the point of contact, the tread compound is very compliant and deforms to comply with road irregularities. The compound effectively creates a larger contact area versus the same tire using a different compound.”

Four wide circumferential grooves with angled groove walls help evacuate water and reduce hydroplaning. The variable angle of the circumferential groove walls optimize contact with the road and contribute to precise cornering.

A solid centre rib contributes to straight-line stability and helps reduce noise and un-even wear. Grooves within the edges of the circumferential grooves help stabilize the tread blocks, another contributor to better cornering. The Kia Forte Koup “R” package is available from participating Kia dealers this spring.

Yokohama Tire (Canada) Inc. markets and distributes a full line of tires for high performance, passenger car, light truck, and commercial truck applications, as well as off-the-road tires for mining, forestry and construction applications. It maintains distribution centres across Canada to serve more than 700 independent tire dealers and more than 2,000 retail locations.

The home of the famous Squid Jigging Ground, the Town of Holyrood, joins Targa Newfoundland 2010

ST. JOHN’S March 19, 2010 – The town council of the town made famous by the traditional Newfoundland folk song “The Ryan’s and the Pitman’s” has decided once again to join the Targa family of communities. Holyrood, a town nestled at the end of a deep bay under its equally famous mountain top cross is welcoming Targa Newfoundland back to its roads in 2010. Surrounding a spectacular deep water port which was the actual home of the squid jigging ground, Holyrood also counts a beautiful marina, a sea-side board walk, and the new to be opened ocean front Marine Institute building as some of its prime attractions. Targa Newfoundland will be added to this impressive list in 2010.

Hosting one the first stages in the early years of Targa, Holyrood will again become the first stage of this year’s event. In addition, the town will welcome the competitors and crews to breakfast before the start of the stage that begins this week long endurance classic.

The approximately 8.00 kilometre long competition stage will be held on Monday September 13th, event organizers have announced. The stage will begin in Holyrood and travel along the Conception Bay shore providing competitors with some of the most scenic vistas in Newfoundland. The stage will be new, and has been designed to set the tone for the first day’s competition for both the Targa and Grand Touring categories.

“We appreciate that Holyrood is bringing Targa Newfoundland back to its streets, and we wish to thank the mayor and council as well as their staff for working with us to accomplish this,” said Targa organizer Robert Giannou. “The first stage of the event is very important as it not only starts the competition, but it wets the competitor’s appetites for the event and allows them to settle down for the long and sometimes gruelling week ahead”.

“Throughout the years, Targa has demonstrated tremendous effort in supporting various charities and this year we are pleased to be associated with them in their partnership with the NL Autism Society”, said Mayor Gary Goobie. In addition, this event with once again add to our local tourism potential in Holyrood and surrounding area. “We look forward to seeing Targa back in Holyrood and we extend an invitation to all the people from the surrounding communities to come and join us at this event” indicates the Mayor.

Owned and operated by Newfoundland International Motorsports Limited, Targa Newfoundland is one of three internationally recognized Targa motorsports events in the world. The 9th annual Targa Newfoundland will start in St. John’s on Saturday, September 11, 2010, and end back in the capital Saturday, September 18. The competition will cover more than 2,000 kilometres of the challenging, twisty roads of the central and eastern portion of Newfoundland, including up to 450 kilometres of closed-road, flat-out Targa stages.

Competitors have come from the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Holland, Germany, the Bahamas, Turks & Caicos and the U.K. for the first editions of Targa Newfoundland and international interest continues to build with competitors registering daily.

SPEEDWAY 660: Bandoleros on Track for 2010!

FREDERICTON, NB - Officials at Speedway 660 announced today that they will be starting a new division of Bandolero cars to compete at Speedway 660 in 2010.  For the first time in the history of the Speedway racers as young as 8 years old will have an opportunity to race on the oval as part of the Saturday night racing events.

The Bandolero car is built like a miniature stock car.  It’s a turnkey spec series race car designed for drivers 8 to 15 years old.  Safety is the number one concern starting with a shock absorbing frame design all the way to the mandated HANS device.  The cars are manufactured by US Legend Cars in Charlotte, North Carolina and are being raced all around North America.  

“This division will be a great addition to the Speedway and compliments our development plans very well.   Introducing kids to stock car racing is a huge leap forward in developing future stars” said Speedway 660 co-owner Chris Johnston.  Until 2010 racers had to be 14 or 16 to compete in stock car events. 

“These cars are purposely built for the youngsters and have been designed so they are simpler to operate for youngsters then a full size stock car” added Johnston.

Although the 2010 schedule is still being finalized, it is expected that the Bandolero division will run 8-10 events this season.  The Bandoleros will run as a division during regular racing events on Saturday nights at the Speedway. 

For more information on the Bandolero cars, purchasing, and other details please visit www.speedway660.com.

From Speedway 660

Canada well represented at Sebring ALMS opener

Kicking off the American Le Mans Series season, the 58th annual Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring presented by Fresh from Florida takes the green flag at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 20. North America's most demanding endurance race will see 36 of the world's most talented and skilled drivers, including Canada's own Tony Burgess, Kyle Marcelli, and Mark Wilkins.

In the P1-class, Burgess, of Toronto, will drive with the Autocon Motorsports Team. This veteran racer, who has sixteen 24 hour sports car races under his belt, first participated in an ALMS event in 2000. His move up to the P1-class took place in 2007 and a podium finish at Mosport, his home track. Burgess plans to compete in at least seven series events this season, including Mosport, as well as the 24 Hours of Le Mans in mid-June.

With a career goal to be the youngest ALMS class champion, the 20-year-old Kyle Marcelli will make his debut in the Series at Sebring's opener. The Barrie native, who placed 5th in 2009's IMSA Lites Championship, will be driving for Primetime-Braille Battery Race Group in the new LMPC division. Marcelli will co-drive with team owner Joel Feinberg.

Recently announced, Mark Wilkins will also make an appearance at the Sebring kick off. Wilkins, a top competitor in the Grand Am Rolex Series, will be driving for Level 5 Motorsports in the No. 55 FLM09 in the LMPC class. He is looking forward to the opportunity, a first for him in the ALMS series. He is joining drivers Christophe Bouchut and Scott Tucker.

Canadians will have a chance to see all the ALMS action live when it makes it's only north-of-the-border stop at the Mobil 1 Presents the Grand Prix of Mosport from August 26-29.

Canada's colours will also be carried in the Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear by David Ostella and Mikael Grenier. The series, now in its 20th year, is known for the high-profile career jumpstarts it offers young drivers.

Ostella, 18, of Maple, Ontario, is returning for a second season with AIM Autosport in the championship. Last year he finished the series 13th overall, with seven top-tens.

Also contending for the 2010 Star Mazda Championship title, is up and coming Canadian driver Mikael Grenier of Stoneham, Quebec. Grenier, 17, began racing when he was merely five. He will drive a full season, 11-race program for Andersen Racing this year, who were impressed with his performance through six races in 2009.

Both drivers will be at Mosport as part of Mobil 1 Presents the GP of Mosport weekend.

The American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón will be covered live on SPEED starting at 10 a.m. ET on March 20. Live coverage also will be available on American Le Mans Radio, as well as Sirius Channel 127 and XM Channel 245. Visit the Series' schedule page for ticket and accommodation information. Live timing and scoring, track schedule, entry list and much, much more will be available on Racehub at www.americanlemans.com.

From Sarah Wight, Media Relations Co-ordinator / Mosport

Kawartha Speedway 2010 - Sticking With the Plan, Man

On the second to last Friday night of the 2009 race season, Kawartha Speedway promoter and general manager Derek Lynch made an announcement at the pre-race driver’s meeting that raised eyebrows all through the crowd.  For 2010 – the track’s 10th Anniversary – the popular Fraserville, Ontario oval would offer a 10 race schedule.  With an eye on the economy and a concern to make things cost effective for the racers, officials took what they considered to be the best possible path.

“Racers at our level do this for fun – it’s their hobby.  Some people go bowling, play baseball or hockey.  Short track racers drive fast cars,” said Lynch.  “Racing is just more expensive than the hobbies most people have.  We want to do everything we can to guarantee a full field for our fans and came to the decision that a 10 race schedule was the best way to do it.  While some people were sceptical at first, the response has been very positive.  New drivers are coming out and there are some others who are returning to the fold.”

Another bonus of this year’s schedule is the opportunity to make-up any rainouts.  In previous seasons, if a show was cancelled because of rain, there was no way to make it up.  For 2010, every attempt will be made to ensure each class runs their full 10 events.  Its great news for the fans and something even more exciting for the drivers.

“Sometimes, a track championship can be decided by just a few points,” added Lynch.  “By getting everyone a chance to run the full schedule, we’re giving drivers in every division the chance to earn as many points as possible.  With a trip to the second annual ACT Tour Invitational available to our late model champion, a margin of maybe 3 or 4 points could make all the difference.”

Heading into the new season, 2 of the track’s 3 weekly divisions could be in line for a new champion.  Mike Wallace, the past champ in the newly renamed Hasiuk Trailer and Container Rental Mini Stocks has jumped to a late model ride.  Kyle Donaldson, who earned the 2009 crown in the Better Carpet Thunder Car class, has yet to confirm his plans for 2010.  Multi time and defending NAPA Auto Parts Late Model champion Dan McHattie will be back, with his sights set on a return trip to the Magic Mile in Loudon, New Hampshire in September.

Kawartha Speedway’s 10th Anniversary season starts with an open practice session Friday, May 28th.  The full schedule – including the 2010 edition of the Summer Sizzler, July 9th – is available now at www.kawarthaspeedway.com.

Photo attachment:  Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications

#1).  Dave Waite (#25on) and Kelly Wood battle in NAPA Auto Parts Late Model action during Kawartha Speedway’s 2009 season.

#2).  Norm Mayhew (#60) and Kyle Donaldson fight for a spot during Better Carpet Thunder Car racing.

By Jim Clarke, Kawartha Speedway PR/Clarke Motorsports Communications

ANDERS KROHN CLAIMS THE POLE AT SEBRING FOR ROUND ONE OF 2010 STAR MAZDA CHAMPIONSHIP PRESENTED BY GOODYEAR

Sebring International Raceway / Thursday , March 18 – Anders 'The Viking' Krohn, the Norwegian racer who won on the Milwaukee Mile and finished 6th in the championship last year, demonstrated that he is much more of a force to be reckoned with in his second season of competition in the 2010 Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear.

Back with Andersen Racing, the team with which he won the 2008 F2000 championship, Krohn turned a lap of 1:58.053 (112.831 mph) in his #47 Andersen Racing / Norse Cutting & Abandonment / Trallfa / Colosseum Mazda to claim the inside of the front row for the 12:45 pm standing start of Friday's Star Mazda season-opener. The time is a new Star Mazda track record; the previous best time was 1:59.986 set by 2007 Series champion Dane Cameron.

"The track is not quite as 'grippy' as it was yesterday, so the times aren't quite as quick as in practice," says Krohn, who qualified 6th and finished 17th in this event last year due to mechanical problems. "But the Andersen team has done a tremendous job to give me such a quick, consistent car and I'm very happy to be starting from my first-ever Star Mazda pole; this is half of the best possible way to start a season; now I just have to complete the second half by winning the race."

It was a back-and-forth battle throughout two days of practice and this morning's qualifying session between Krohn and his Andersen Racing teammates Mikael Grenier and Tristan Vautier. The trio has pretty much controlled the top of the time sheets and will start 1-2-3 in tomorrow's race. Grenier set a time of 1:58.312 (112.584 mph) in the #17 Andersen Racing / NAPA Auto Parts / CAA-Quebec/HS Telecom Mazda to claim the outside of the front row and Vautier, a rookie to the Star Mazda Championship, turned the third-fast time of 1:58.724 (112.193 mph) in his #38 Andersen Racing / Moulin TP / Cecibon / Circuit du Laquais Mazda.

Rounding out the top-5 will be Conor Daly, son of F1/Indy Car racing legend Derek Daly, who will start 4th with a lap of 1:58.782 (112/138 mph) in his #22 Juncos Racing / INDECK / College Network / Merchant Services Ltd. / Tom Lange Co. Mazda. Daly, who finished 3rd in the 2009 Star Mazda Championship also finished 3rd in this event last year. His 2009 record also includes a win from the pole at New Jersey and six podium finishes.

Gerry Kraut, the runner-up on the 2009 Star Mazda Master Series (drivers 45 and older) qualified 15th overall with a lap of 2:10.435 (109.627 mph) in his #55 JDC Motorsports / Dougherty & Co. / Dougherty Funding LLC Mazda. Kraut is the CEO of Dougherty & Co. and is co-owner of the championship-winning JDC Motorsports team. The quickest Expert Series (drivers 30 – 44) driver was J W Roberts, who qualified 18th overall with a lap of 2:02.167 (109.031 mph) in the #65 Team GDT / General Data Tech Mazda. Roberts is the owner of Team GDT and is fielding four cars in the Sebring race. He finished 4th in the Expert Series championship in 2009 after missing most of the season for the birth of his latest child.

The 45-minute Round 1 of the 2010 Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear season takes the green at 12:45 pm, Friday, March 19. The race will be broadcast in tape-delay syndication; visit http://www.mazdaracing.tv/ for dates, times and channels.

Ferrari Challenge Series Returns to GP of Canada

MONTREAL, QC - In keeping with Grand Prix du Canada tradition, two exciting support races featuring the beautiful and powerful Ferrari 430 of the North American Ferrari Challenge Series, have been added to the June 11-13 weekend schedule on Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Octane Racing Group, promoter of the of the event, is pleased to announce that they have reached an agreement with Ferrari North America for the presentation of two races of the single-marque motorsport championship series. In its 18th season of competition, the Ferrari Challenge Series will make its 12th visit to Montreal.

"The participation of the Ferrari F430 Challenge Series at the Grand Prix du Canada has become a wonderful tradition. The passionate gentlemen-drivers that compete in their purpose-built Ferrari 430 have always produced exciting racing for our fans. We did not hesitate a moment to include them on the weekend schedule," said François Dumontier, president of Octane Racing Group and promoter of the event. "They are the pride of a great number of North American tifosi who attend the Montreal event, and the cars are always a very popular attraction in the support race paddocks for spectators. To add to the show, tradition has it that the Ferrari Scuderia designates either its team director or one of its drivers to attend the Ferrari Challenge podium ceremonies. Who knows whether Felipe Massa or Fernando Alonso could be saluting their fans prior to the race?"

"We are thrilled to see the return of the Grand Prix of Canada to the 2010 Formula 1 World Championship," remarked Marco Mattiacci, Ferrari North America President and CEO. "Once the good news reached us, we immediately decided to accept the invitation to again include the Challenge Race into the Formula One weekend festivities. Canada is a country with racing in its DNA, and Quebec in particular has always demonstrated a great deal of passion for Ferrari."

Sanctioned by the Grand-American Road Racing Association, the Ferrari Challenge Series exclusively features the 490 horsepower 4.3-liter V8 engine F430 model specially prepared for competition. The Challenge is designed for Ferrari owners who are not professional racers. North American authorized Prancing Horse dealer teams handle all race preparation. Ferrari Challenge Series competition is often close and intense. Fans attending the Montreal races have witnessed tremendous battles to the finish. Former Montréal Canadien hockey defenseman Patrice Brisebois, made his motor racing debut in the series.

Those wishing to obtain grandstand and general admission tickets can contact the Canadian Grand Prix box office at 514 350-0000 which is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. They can also visit www.circuitgillesvilleneuve.ca, at any time to order online.

As a reminder, organizers are also offering a variety of corporate packages for both small and large companies and other groups who wish to attend the 2010 Grand Prix of Canada. To make a reservation or to obtain further information, contact Julie Rioux-Paquette and Marie-Claude Boucher at 514 350-4731. Always popular, corporate packages for the Canadian Grand Prix, sell out quickly.

A Canadian company established in Montreal, Octane Racing Group Inc. is the promoter of the FORMULA 1 CANADIAN GRAND PRIX by virtue of an agreement made with Formula One Administration Limited and Formula 1 World Championship Limited (together the holder of commercialization rights to F1).

From Celina Machado // National Press Officer - Formula 1 Grand Prix du Canada
Ferrari Challenge Race Action Photo credit: Christopher McNeil

CONOR DALY FASTEST IN FINAL STAR MAZDA SEBRING TEST SESSION

Sebring International Raceway / Wednesday, March 17 – As he did at the pre-season Star Mazda Championship Series Test at Sebring in January, it was Conor Daly, driving the #22 Juncos Racing / INDECK / College Network / Merchant Services Ltd. / Tom Lange Co. Mazda who set the fast time… in the final of four practice sessions leading up to qualifying tomorrow morning. Daly, who won at New Jersey and finished 3rd in the 2009 championship and is now entering his second year of Star Mazda Championship competition with a new team, turned a lap of 1:57.600 (113.265) – well under the 1:59.986 lap record set by 2007 Series Champion Dane Cameron. And he was among a stellar, and speedy, group of 14 cars all under the previous lap record.

"Right from the moment we rolled off the trailer, the track had a tremendous amount of grip and the Mazda rotary engines were loving the cool air," says Daly, the son of F1/Indy Car legend Derek Daly. "The Andersen trio was the quickest in the first three sessions, but we finally got my car adjusted just right and were able to put some distance between me and the second-fast car of Anders Krohn. I'm feeling good about what we've achieved so far, especially given how hard it's been to get the program together for this season, but we have a long way to go and have to keep our eye on the ball every moment."

As can be seen from the time sheets below, it was the Andersen Racing trio of Mikael Grenier, Tristan Vautier and Anders Krohn who set the pace in the first three sessions… trading places, but keeping the top-3 times among themselves. Grenier ran a limited schedule in 2009 to prepare for his 2010 assault on the championship. He competed in six races, finishing on the podium in two of them. In 2010, he will race the #17 Andersen Racing / NAPA Auto Parts / CAA-Quebec/HS Telecom Mazda.

Anders 'The Viking' Krohn, a second-year racer from Norway who won on the oval at Milwaukee in 2009 and finished 6th in the championship has switched teams and will drive the #47 Andersen Racing / Norse Cutting & Abandonment / Trallfa / Colosseum Mazda. And rookie Tristan Vautier, with European open-wheel experience in the FIA Formula Two Championship and Formula Palmer Audi, drives the #38 Andersen Racing / Moulin TP / Cecibon / Circuit du Laquais Mazda.

Also making an appearance at the sharp end during various sessions were Connor De Phillippi, the 2009 Skip Barber Pro Series Champion and MAZDASPEED Motorsports Driver Development Ladder winner who will drive the #11 JDC Motorsports / MAZDASPEED Motorsports / Skip Barber Mazda, as well as Brazilian veteran Caio Lara in the #19 JDC Motorsports / MLD / ATW Mazda. And, making his first on-track appearance in the final practice session, and posting the fourth-fast time, was Court Vernon, who finished 2nd in the 2009 Skip Barber Pro Series championship. He will race the #27 Andersen Racing / Mangroove Boats / Capt. Harry's Mazda.

Quick among the Master Series competitors (drivers 45 and older) was Star Mazda veteran Gerry Kraut; he finished second in the Master championship in 2009 and is co-owner of the championship-winning JDC Motorsports team. He races the #55 JDC Motorsports / Dougherty & Co. / Dougherty Funding LLC Mazda. Also quick was Expert Series (drivers 30 to 44) driver J W Roberts, a Texan who owns the 4-car Team GDT operation.

Qualifying to set the final starting positions for the 23 car Star Mazda Championship grid will take place from 8:45 am to 9:30 am Thursday, March 18. The 45-minute Round 1 of the 2010 Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear season takes the green at 12:45 pm, Friday, March 19.

TW Steel Unveils Renault F1 Team Collection

Basel, Switzerland (March 17, 2010) – TW Steel celebrated the start of BASELWORLD 2010 by unveiling its new ‘Renault F1 Team’ collection – the first executions produced as the Dutch watch brand begins its association as ‘Official Timing Partner’ to the Renault F1 Team in 2010.

TW Steel’s newest offerings are based on two separate design platforms. The four-model ‘Renault F1 Team Pilot’ collection celebrates Renault’s early association with the aviation industry and specifically the origins of the first oversized watches. The ‘Renault F1 Team CEO Tech’ collection, also with four-models, offers a more luxurious edge to TW Steel’s partnership embracing the team’s world championship winning pedigree.

“This was an exciting project for me and I’m pleased that we have a collection that reflects both the best of TW Steel and the Renault F1 Team,” stated Ton Cobelens, TW Steel’s Chief Design Officer.

“I was fascinated with Renault’s background in aviation and developed the Pilot models from this research. Pilot watches were known for being oversized with bold, easy to read faces to ensure greater visibility at all times. We’ve developed this concept with the use of big numbers clearly visible in both the day and night. We’re offering the consumer a strong, distinctive looking watch with its roots planted firmly in Renault’s illustrious history.

”On the ‘Renault F1 Team CEO Tech’ executions Cobelens remarked; “In addition to the Pilot models we wanted to offer something that reflected more of the prestige associated with both Formula One and obviously the Renault F1 Team’s on-track successes. The Renault F1 Team CEO Tech watches purposefully mirror the values that have made TW Steel’s current CEO collection a success, by offering a more elaborate watch very much in keeping with the lifestyle associated with the sport.

”The TW670 (45mm) and TW671 (48mm) Pilot models feature a three-hand, big caliber movement on a bold black dial sporting the Renault F1 Team logo. The TW672 (45mm) and TW673 (48mm), also in the Pilot collection, feature a chronograph movement with all executions using a hardened mineral crystal and black leather straps – complete with TW Steel’s two steel dot signature.

The TW680 (45mm) and TW681 (48mm) in the CEO Tech collection feature a chronograph movement able to measure and display time to 1/20th of a second with real Sapphire crystal – a rarity for a watch with these case dimensions. The steel case is complimented by the use of a soft black silicon rubber strap.

The TW682 (44mm) and TW683 (48mm) editions, both with a chronograph movement, feature AA-grade black PVD plating on the case. The crown and screws on the bezel utilize AA-grade gold plating for further distinction. All Tech watches are waterproof to 10ATM.TW Steel, the name meaning ‘The Watch in Steel’, can be found at BASELWORLD 2010 in Hall 1.1, ‘Hall of Desires’ – Stand No. A71, 17th – 25th March 2010.

http://www.twsteel.com/

ALMS: Mark Wilkins to compete in 12 Hours of Sebring

TORONTO, ON - It was announced today that twenty-six year old Mark Wilkins of Toronto, will join Christophe Bouchut and Scott Tucker in the Level 5 Motorsports No. 55 FLM09 in the LMPC class for the Mobil 1 12 Hours of Sebring presented by Fresh from Florida. This will be Wilkins’ first start in the ALMS Series and first appearance in the famed event.

Wilkins, who regularly drives the AIM Autosport No 61 Ford Riley in another series was excited at the opportunity to drive in the 12 Hours of Sebring.

“Sebring is one of those tracks that is steeped in history and the 12-Hour is one of those races every racer would like to have on his resume and this is an opportunity not to be missed” commented Wilkins before heading south for testing.  "Level 5 runs a first-class operation and will put a good car on track for Christophe, Scott and myself. I have raced against both these drivers and there is an intensity that will work in our favor during the race. I am looking forward to getting into the Oreca FLM09 on Tuesday, working with the team and focusing on a good result next Saturday”

Mark is on his way to Florida to meet with the crew on Monday (15th), get acquainted with the car and work on a seat fitting. Level 5 Motorsports goes into action on Tuesday (16th) with practice sessions that continue through Thursday. Qualifying for the LMPC class is on Friday afternoon.

The 58th Mobil 1 12 Hours of Sebring presented by Fresh from Florida is scheduled to begin at 10:30 am ET on Saturday, March 20th. The race will be shown live on SPEED TV.

– 30 –

Mark Wilkins fast facts: Twenty-six year old Wilkins is a native of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He started racing in karts and in 2001, joined Woodbridge, Ontario-based AIM Autosport to compete in Formula Ford. He would move on to run in Fran Am, Star Mazda and Formula Renault through 2004 earning podiums in each series.  In 2004 he earned his first podium (3rd) in the Rolex 24 at Daytona (SGS Class) repeating a year later taking third in GT. Wilkins and AIM Autosport joined the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series presented by Crown Royal Cask No 16 full time in 2007. In 2008, co-driving with Brian Frisselle, Wilkins scored three podiums including back-to-back victories at Montreal and Watkins Glen. Wilkins also recorded two poles that season. A graduate of Georgian College in Automotive Marketing, Wilkins works in marketing with Engineered Automotive, a business specializing in Automotive Sales (inc. importation), Automotive Service, Automotive Tuning, Vehicle Storage and Track Events.

From Chris Jameson // Level Ten Communications

Grand Bend Motorplex - ANNOUNCES NEW RACE SERIES extreme 32

For 2010 Grand Bend Motorplex will be adding an exciting new race series sponsored by Rudy Held’s Performance Centre, Armando’s Pizza and Amherst Quarries. The new EXTREME 32 series will be a bracket program based on the quickest 32 vehicles in the park (based on entry/qualifying).

The series is open to door cars, dragsters, altereds, motorcycles, etc. and is currently 6 races on 3 race weekends - May 22/23rd, July 3/4th and Aug 21/22nd(with the possible addition of one more weekend/2 races July31/Aug1).

“We would really like to thank our sponsors for helping us to provide this great opportunity for all those Top Sportsman/Top Dragster competitors who ran the GBM program in 2009 and for those Bike, Top ET and other competitors looking for additional race opportunities” says GBM owner Paul Spriet. “We averaged a combined 23 cars in TD/TS in 2009 and with the number of new competitors who have showed interest in this program we expect to see full fields and great payouts ” says Spriet.

GBM’s general Manager Ron Biekx believes the new program will definitely spark some interest. “We think the fans will get a real kick out of seeing cars,dragsters,altereds and bikes all running together at speeds in excess of 140MPH , it is something we haven’t done before at GBM”. Biekx says.

The EXTREME 32 series consists of a $50 membership fee and entry fees of $150/race, ($130/entry goes to the purse with the full field payout being $4160) payouts go back to the quarter finalists and the year end points program is $3000 in cash and contingencies. Each race weekend will be a race Saturday and a race Sunday, consisting of 2 Qualifiers (Non qualifiers will receive a $100 GBM credit), followed by eliminations.

Information on the entire Rudy Held’s Performance Centre EXTREME 32 series presented by Armando’s Pizza & Amherst Quarries is available at www.grandbendmotorplex.com

DIRTcar: Super DIRT Week XXXIX 358-Modified qualifying schedule kicks off in April

Kicking off in April, the schedule of qualifying races leading up to the Mr. DIRTcar 358-Modified Championship on Oct. 9 of Super DIRT Week XXXIX in Syracuse, N.Y. has been set with 21 tracks slated to host 60 events in 2010.

The current format guarantees that automatic starting berths for the headline "Salute To The Troops" 150 will be earned by drivers competing only in DIRTcar-sanctioned events, while time trials on the Syracuse Mile will remain open to any driver issued a DIRTcar License.

Last season Billy Decker successfully defended in the Syracuse SDW 358-Modified Championship on Saturday afternoon at the New York State Fairgrounds, matching his Super DIRT Week mastery in a Big-Block after scoring the fourth victory of his career in the 150-lapper. The Unadilla, N.Y. veteran inherited the lead when Frenchman Martin Roy made his pit stop with 99, then out-distanced another four-time winner Brett Hearn by 4.2-seconds to earn his eighth Modified feature win on the historic Syracuse Mile.

Qualifying procedures for the 31st Annual Syracuse 358-Modified Championship begin with time trials for all drivers including those already holding guaranteed starter status through the summer qualifying races plus the two DIRTcar 358-Modified Regional Championships. Preliminary clockings on Thursday, October 7 lock in the front three rows with the top-8 non-guaranteed drivers making Friday's Twin 20s starting grids.

The summer-long qualifying trail culminates with the 150-lap Salute To The Troops 358-Modified Championship held during the 39th edition of Super DIRT Week, October 6-10. Guaranteed starters will be added from Super DIRT Week qualifiers at Can-Am Motorsports Park (Oct. 6), Brewerton Speedway (Oct. 7) and Rolling Wheels Raceway Park (Oct. 8), with the current top-12 in overall Hoosier Tire-VP Racing Fuels Mr. DIRTcar 358-Modified point standings and provisionals filling out the field. The Brewerton qualifier will be added to the Twin 20s line-up while Rolling Wheels qualifiers will be placed at the back of Saturday’s starting grid at Syracuse.

By Tom Skibinski, DIRTcar Racing Northeast PR Director

2010 358-MODIFIED SYRACUSE CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIERS

(+)-denotes Mr. DIRTcar 358-Modified Championship Series event.                         

DAY-DATE          TRACK                                     LOCATION       

Sat-Apr 10           Fulton Speedway                      Fulton,NY

Fri-Apr 16            Brewerton Speedway                 Brewerton,NY

Sat-Apr 17+         Can-Am Motorsports Park          LaFargeville,NY

Sat-May 1            Airborne Speedway                   Plattsburgh,NY

Fri-May 14           Autodrome Edelweiss                Hull,QUE

Sat-May 15          Brockville Ontario Speedway      Brockville,ONT

Sat-May 15          Lebanon Valley Speedway         West Lebanon,NY

Sun-May 16         Cornwall Motor Speedway         Cornwall,ONT

Sun-May 23         Cornwall Motor Speedway         Cornwall,ONT

Mon-May 24+       Merrittville Speedway                 Thorold,ONT

Fri-May 28           Ransomville Speedway              Ransomville,NY

Sun-May 30         Cayuga County Fair Speedway  Weedsport,NY

Fri-Jun 4  Autodrome Edelweiss                Hull,QUE

Sat-Jun 12           Autodrome Drummond              Drummondville,QUE

Tue-Jun 15           Grandview Speedway                Bechtelsville,PA

Wed-Jun 16         Orange County Fair Speedway   Middletown,NY

Wed-Jun 23         Mohawk Int'l Raceway                Hogansburg,NY

Sat-Jun 26           Lebanon Valley Speedway         West Lebanon,NY

Thr-Jul 1+            Autodrome Edelweiss                Hull,QUE

Fri-Jul 2   Ransomville Speedway              Ransomville,NY

Sun-Jul 4 Rolling Wheels Raceway Park    Elbridge,NY

Sun-Jul 11           Cornwall Motor Speedway         Cornwall,ONT

Mon-Jul 12           Can-Am Motorsports Park          LaFargeville,NY

Thr-Jul 15 Brewerton Speedway                 Brewerton,NY

Fri-July 16            Autodrome Granby                    Granby,QUE

Fri-Jul 16 Cayuga County Fair Speedway  Weedsport,NY

Sat-Jul 17            Merrittville Speedway                 Thorold,ONT

Sat-Jul 17            Cayuga County Fair Speedway  Weedsport,NY

Mon-Jul 19           Autodrome Granby                    Granby,QUE

Tue-Jul 20            Autodrome Drummond              Drummondville,QUE

Sun-Jul 25           Humberstone Speedway            Port Colborne,ONT

Sun-Jul 25           Lebanon Valley Speedway         West Lebanon,NY

Fri-Jul 30 Mohawk Int'l Speedway              Hogansburg,NY

Sat-Jul 31            Autodrome Drummond              Drummondville,QUE

Sun-Aug 1           Cornwall Motor Speedway         Cornwall,ONT

Mon-Aug 2           Merrittville Speedway                 Thorold,ONT

Fri-Aug 6 Ransomville Speedway              Ransomville,NY

Wed-Aug 11         Airborne Speedway                   Plattsburgh,NY

Sat-Aug 14          Lebanon Valley Speedway         West Lebanon,NY

Sat-Aug 14          Canandaigua Speedway            Canandaigua,NY

Sun-Aug 15          Cayuga County Fair Speedway  Weedsport,NY

Sun-Aug 22          Humberstone Speedway            Port Colborne,ONT

Fri-Aug 27            Autodrome Edelweiss                Hull,QUE

Sat-Aug 28          Brockville Ontario Speedway      Brockville,ONT

Sat-Sep 4            Airborne Speedway                   Plattsburgh,NY

Sat-Sep 4            Autodrome Drummond              Drummondville,QUE

Sat-Sep 4            Lebanon Valley Speedway         West Lebanon,NY

Sun-Sep 5+         Cornwall Motor Speedway         Cornwall,ONT

Sun-Sep 5           Cayuga County Fair Speedway  Weedsport,NY

Mon-Sep 6           Northern Region Champion        DIRTcar Northeast

Mon-Sep 6           Western Region Champion         DIRTcar Northeast

Fri-Sep 10+          Autodrome Granby                    Granby,QUE

Sat-Sep 11+        Autodrome Drummond              Drummondville,QUE

Fri-Sep 17+          Mohawk Int'l Raceway                Hogansburg,NY

Sat-Sep 18          Mohawk Int'l Raceway                Hogansburg,NY

Sat-Sep 18          Little Valley Speedway               Little Valley,NY

Fri-Sep 24+          Rolling Wheels Raceway            Elbridge,NY

Sat-Sep 25          Brighton Speedway                   Brighton,ONT

Sat-Oct 2 Fulton Speedway                      Fulton,NY

Wed-Oct 6+         Can-Am Motorsports Park          LaFargeville,NY

Thr-Oct 7+           Brewerton Speedway                 Brewerton,NY

Fri-Oct 8+            Rolling Wheels Raceway Park    Elbridge,NY

Sat-Oct 9+           New York State Fairgrounds     Syracuse,NY

Communique from Sebring... Day 1 from Ed Moody

Day 1: As promised by ALMS boss Scott Atherton, in Toronto at the January Canadian Motorsport Expo, the car count for ALMS started the day in the mid 30s. The weather at Sebring was ideal for racing and laying down some rubber after last Fridays torrential rain and tornado.

The morning session was mostly a 'feel out the track and car' thing, but in the afternoon session it was time to put the pedal down. Near the end of the final session, Jon Field of Dublin, Ohio lost control of his Lola B06 10 heading into turn 10 and had a horrific accident.

He was taken from the track to a local hospital and was released last night. The car is destroyed and they have no backup in Florida, but there is a new tub in Ohio so their ability to make the race is still questionable.

In the GT2 class Andrea Robertson crashed in her Ford GT 40 and the crew is working to see if the car can be repaired in time. Robertson was uninjured in the crash.

At a noon hour press conference, Gunnar Jeannette unveiled his Green Earth Technologies. Sponsored by G-OIL and biodegradable engine oil the car should become a fan favorite. Painted bright green with a garden of Eden motif the car glows in the dark and for this 12 hour night race will create quite a impression.

An event of this size cannot operate without a lot of volunteers and Mosport Marshaling Service has 17 Canadian track marshals for race day. There are so many that corners 3,4,and 5 will be worked only by MMS. At the SCCA campground there is even a private washroom just for the Canadian Marshals.

Words and photos by Ed Moody

Kumho Tires Rated Top Level at European Tire Test

• Kumho Tires ECSTA HM ranked 3rd place, receiving ‘very recommendable’ rating by Auto Bild
  
• Technological prowess and product quality acclaimed globally
  
• ECSTA HM, the main product in European market with improved product life and noise reduction

Kumho Tires, one of the world’s leading tire manufacturers, announced that its ECSTA HM was assessed ‘very recommendable’ by Auto Bild which is one of the Europe’s most prestigious automotive magazines. Kumho Tires was the only Korean tire manufacturer to receive the top rating, and ranked 3rd place among fourteen tire manufacturers including Michelin, Continental and Dunlop.

The tire test encompassed an assessment of handling, braking, driving comfort and fuel efficiency. ECSTA HM received good ratings in most of the test categories including handling, braking, steering and hydroplaning. Auto Bild wrote, “Kumho Tires’ ECSTA HM received high scores in most test categories, especially in those of noise and hydroplaning.”

Previously, ECSTA HM also tied 2nd place at tire test by German magazine Autozeitung in 2009. With an upgraded UHP tread compound technology, ECSTA HM boasts enhanced driving stability and extended product life. Europe is one of Kumho Tires’ key markets which take up 30% of its overseas sale, and the good ratings will help the company increase the sales of ECSTA HM in the market.

Kumho Tires said, “The ratings reiterate Kumho Tires’ acclaim in markets around the world based on its technological prowess and product quality, despite the recent difficulties the company is experiencing.” He added, “As the company celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, we will make our utmost efforts to make a significant impact in global market with our accumulated R&D assets.”

In addition to the good rating results, Kumho Tires recently received the ‘Manufacturing and Design Innovation Award’ for its concept tire at the world’s largest Tire Technology Expo held in Cologne, Germany last February. Kumho Tires also won the ‘German iF Product Design Award’ in 2009, adding to its recognitions for innovative design in global markets.

Auto Bild is one of the most influential automotive magazines in Europe, with circulation of 660,000 copies in 35 countries every week. The magazine’s annual tire test results are widely recognized as one of the most credible source for product quality and the most influential data for consumers’ actual purchasing decisions.

For more visit www.kumhotire.ca

Kingston area racers set to show their stuff at Frontenac Mall

Their hometown raceway may have closed more than 30 years ago, but when Kingston Speedway ceased operation after the 1976 season, the sport of stock car racing continued on.  A contingent of competitors from the area in and around Canada’s first capital are still making headlines and earning track championships at venues like Can Am, Brockville and Cornwall Speedways.  

Thursday, Friday, and Saturday – March 25th to 27th – they’ll get the chance to display their racers and meet with fans when Frontenac Mall hosts the annual Kingston Area Racing Preview show.  Event organizers Ed Palmer and Glenn Stewart say it’s something that drivers, teams and fans look forward to every year.

“We got off to a pretty modest start back in 2001,” said Palmer.  “As each year passes, the show continues to grow.  We’re at the point now where we actually have to turn people away because there isn’t enough space to display everyone’s cars and still have room for the shoppers.”

Racers are constantly looking for ways to give more support to their sponsors and shows like this are a great way to prove that advertising on a racecar is a solid corporate investment.  Stock car racing fans are extremely loyal and even though not everyone can get to the track on a regular basis, they’re always willing to back a business that is involved with their favourite sport.  Palmer explains that the teams appreciate the opportunity to network with a potential new sponsor and talk to the fans.

“I can think of about 2 or 3 drivers who have closed a sponsorship deal while at the Frontenac Mall show, so the potential is certainly there,” according to Palmer.  “I’m sure we’ve had drivers invite a prospective backer to take a wander through Frontenac Mall and see what this type of show has to offer.  It’s a huge event for ‘bench racers’ too.  You’ll always find people standing around with a coffee and sharing a story.  More than once, I’ve seen a Hoosier race tire being used as a chair.”

In addition to the racecars, Palmer and Stewart are pleased to again have Brockville Ontario Speedway as part of this year’s show.  The Saturday night home for many of the Kingston area racers, the track – which celebrated its 40th Anniversary in 2009 – will have a booth set up where fans can pick-up a copy of this year’s schedule and see videos from last season’s action.  Track promoter Paul Kirkland will also be on hand throughout the event.

With Can Am Speedway at Lafargeville, New York set to host the year’s first Super DIRTcar Series event for 358 modifieds on Saturday, April 17th, the Kingston Area Racing Preview show will be the unofficial kick-off for the local motorsports season.  Make your plans now to see what’s new for 2010 – Thursday, Friday and Saturday – March 25th to 27th at Frontenac Mall.

Frontenac Mall is located at 1300 Bath Road in Kingston, Ontario and is easily accessible from the Gardiners Road, Sydenham Road or Sir John A. MacDonald exits from highway 401.

Release and Photo attachments:  Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications

#1).  2009 marked the first year for Tim O’Brien behind the wheel of the Jim’s Performance #88 machine.  The pairing was officially introduced at last year’s Kingston Area Racing Preview.

#2).  Bath, Ontario’s Todd Stewart had a solid 2009 season, earning a 3rd place finish at Mohawk International Raceway and 4th at Brockville Ontario Speedway.  His 2010 ride will be featured at the Kingston Area Racing Preview.

#3). His multiple trips to victory lane helped Danny O’Brien earn his 9th Brockville Ontario Speedway track championship.  His #7 Star Bicknell will be part of this year’s Kingston Area Racing Preview.

Hankook Tire Strengthens Grassroots Racing Support - Gives further incentive and choice to racers who aspire to be the best

WAYNE, N.J. Mar. 15, 2010 – Hankook Tire America Corp. is asking race enthusiasts to put Hankook racing tires to the test by supporting them with an incentive program for the 2010 motorsports season.

Hankook supports motorsports enthusiasts and racers at all levels and this new program is no different. Hankook is offering amateur and professional racing enthusiasts alike the chance to earn dollars off Hankook’s Ventus R-S3 or Ventus Z214 DOT R Compound tires based on their performance in specific racing circuits. Racers have an opportunity to earn incentives during each individual competition event.

“This incentive program allows Hankook to offer the benefits of its products to both the weekend racer and the top drivers in the country,” said Jason Kim, motorsports manager, Hankook Tire America Corp. “Both the Ventus R-S3 and Ventus Z214 provide the latest racing technology and superior performance on the track. We stand behind our products and are confident that enthusiasts will love the results.”

Racers who compete in SCCA ProSolo Championship Series, SCCA Solo National 6, 7, 8 and SCCA National Championship Runoffs will be able to earn certificates toward the purchase of Hankook’s Ventus Z214 DOT R. Racers who compete in Formula Drift, Pro-Am Drift Series, Redline Time Attack and Super Lap Battle will be able to earn certificates toward the purchase of Hankook’s Ventus R-S3.

Certificates will be awarded in the following racing series:
· 2010 Tire Rack SCCA ProSolo Championship Series
· 2010 Tire Rack SCCA Solo Nationals 6, 7, 8
· 2010 Tire Rack SCCA National Championship Runoffs
· 2010 Formula Drift Championship Series
· 2010 Pro-Am Drift Series: Los Angeles, Las Vegas
· 2010 Redline Time Attack
· 2010 Super Lap Battle

“Right now, grassroots racers are demanding a high-value tire that produces results on the track,” said Kim. “Hankook’s Ventus line-up provides racers with high-value, high-quality products without sacrificing performance.”

The Ventus R-S3 is Hankook’s extreme performance summer tire developed for drivers looking for race-like traction on the street or for use in autocross, drifting and track events. The R-S3 delivers extreme dry grip with Hankook’s proven racing tread compound. The pattern owns many wins and podium places by professional and amateur racers alike.

The Ventus Z214 DOT R offers a symmetric tread design and utilizes a smooth tread surface with two longitudinal tread grooves for outstanding performance on the circuit in both dry and damp conditions. The successor to the proven Z211, the Z214 is the premier semi-slick tire in the market. The Z214 has achieved many wins and track records within the last several years, clearly demonstrating its consistency and compound prowess.

For more information on program participation, please visit Hankook’s website at www.Hankooktireusa.com or contact Hankook directly at Motorsports@hankooktireusa.com .

About Hankook Tire America Corp.

Headquartered in Wayne, N.J., Hankook Tire America Corp. is a technology-focused, market-driven company that markets and distributes a complete line of high performance and ultra-high performance passenger tires, light truck, SUV tires, as well as medium truck and bus tires to more than 400 independent dealers through 3000+ retail sales locations in the United States and Canada.

For more information, please visit the Hankook website at www.hankooktireusa.com

Brockville Ontario Speedway releases 2010 schedule

BROCKVILLE , ON - Brockville Ontario Speedway will be the place to be for Eastern Ontario and Northern New York racing fans again in 2010.  The fast quarter mile clay oval has just released it's schedule for the upcoming race season which for the second straight year will run from May until October.  The Beast of the East will have some new series coming to challenge its high banks along with a bigger than ever October 15 to 17 finale.

Brockville's core classes will remain in place for another season.  The DIRT 358 Modifieds, DIRT Sportsman, Street Stocks and Rookies will be part of the weekly presentation.  The McNamee Vintage stock cars will be semi-regulars as they have been for the past couple of seasons with the odd enduro feature mixed in as well.  Race time on Saturday nights from the May 15th season lidlifter through September 11th topless 358 event will be 7 pm.  Sportsman and Street Stocks will also have some special challenge events with other local tracks throughout the campaign.

The Northeast Fall Nationals in October will be a three day affair in 2010 coming off a very successful two day show last season.  Friday night, the 15th will feature the Street Stocks and DIRT Pro Stock tour.  Saturday afternoon is a 358 Modified DIRT series event and Sprint Car twin bill, with the Big Block tour and Sportsman series taking centre stage on Sunday the 17th.

Late Model fans will have a couple of opportunities to see the wild wedged machines take to the fast quarter mile.  The O Reilly All Star Late Model series will venture north of the border for a special mid week show on Thursday, August 12th. The series features the hottest late model drivers from Pennsylvania and New York.  The Ontario Dirt Late Models will make their second annual appearance at Brockville on Saturday, July 24th. 

Other touring groups include Sprint Cars in June and July, The Mod Lites in June, the 358 Modified Quebec/Ontario Challenge in August and the annual Kanes Towing Monster Enduro in September.  Brockville Ontario Speedway will also feature go kart racing every Wednesday night at 7pm.  The Go karters will also have a chance to show their stuff before the Saturday night crowd in August.

The entire schedule can be found on the Speedway website, www.brockvillespeedway.com.

From Steve Young / BOS

Merrittville Speedway: Seaway Mall Race Race Show March Break

THOROLD, ON - If you are looking for something to do with the family this week – visit Merrittville Speedway’s Race Car Show at the Seaway Mall in Welland. Cars from every division are on display until closing Saturday Night and remember to make a donation of a non-perishable food item for your chance to win a 2010 Grandstand Season Pass.

If you and the family follow NASCAR Sprint Cup Driver Michael Waltrip - you may know that in celebration of Aaron’s 55th Anniversary, he will drive the Aaron’s #55 in the Aaron’s 499 at Talladega April 25th.

One week later … Merrittville Speedway will play its role in the celebration when the 2010 Edition of the Kid’s Club gets a new lease on life – Saturday May 1st.

The Aaron’s Lucky Dog Kid’s Club will hold Registration Night as part of the 105.1 The River Niagara IceDogs Fan Appreciation Night that launches the Championship Chase for all 5 Lucas Oil Weekly Racing Series Divisions.

“We are thrilled to have Aaron’s join our Kid’s Club,” exclaimed (Merrittville GM) Erica Bicknell, “while 55 years of operation is quite an achievement … they are relatively new in Niagara … we are honored to help them grow!”

Prior to race time throughout the season, the Aaron’s Lucky Dog Kid’s Club Area behind the Main Grandstand has activities scheduled for members. Highlight Events once again take place in August.

“Race fans of all ages are still talking about some of the best races … the clinic put on by Matt Sheppard in the Big Block 100 was my first,” admits (Aaron’s St. Catharines’) Grant MacArthur, “but before that … the Kids Club Bike Race was a sight to be seen as well!”

When the Super DIRTcar Big Block Modified Super DIRTcar Series returns Monday August 2nd for the L. St. Amand Enterprises hosted Bob St. Amand Sr. Memorial … Bike Races will award brand new bikes to lucky younger race fans in attendance.

From there … Meridian Credit Union Box Car Races for the Aaron’s Lucky Dog Kid’s Club will involve parents for the first time as part of Saturday August 7th’s CMH Sales and Leasing Help a Child Night.

When Ball Hockey International presents Minor Sports Team Night assisted by the Niagara IceDogs Saturday August 28th – the Aaron’s Lucky Dog Kid’s Club will celebrate it’s first summer with a Back to School Party.

The Merrittville Speedway Aaron’s Lucky Dog Kids Club is just one of many ingredients that combine to keep the Thorold showplace as an enjoyable family oriented attraction.

Many new events will be unveiled on the Kids Club Registration Night.

The 2010 Kids Club Membership fee for children from 8 – 12 years of age is $24.99 while for those under 8 – it is $4.99.

The one time fee includes a Membership Card and Aaron’s Lucky Dog T-Shirt and allows the Kids Club Member free admission to all 2010 Dirt Weekly Racing Series Events.

Visit Aaron’s at their St. Catharines location – 360 Ontario Street or visit them on line at shopaarons.ca.

Aaron’s is North America’s leader in the sales and lease ownership of residential and office furniture, consumer electronics, home appliances and accessories. With more than 1,700 company operated and franchises in the US and Canada – Aaron’s can offer guaranteed low prices on a large selection of name brand products with the highest level of service.

In addition to Michael Waltrip Racing drivers David Reutimann, Martin Truex, Trevor Bayne and the 14 year old son of Bill Elliott – Chase – Race fans can also cheer for the Aaron’s sponsored Pierre Bourque in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series.

When you visit the Seaway Mall this week – keep an eye out for the Hoosier Stock with the Aaron’s Lucky Dog as well!

Veteran Hoosier Stock driver Kevin Knapp has added Aaron’s as a sponsor in 2010. As the season nears – look for an article on that team as well.

In the weeks leading up to the start of the season … race fans can keep visiting – visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com or follow us on Face Book for all the pre-season news - Drivers making moves from one division to another … former drivers returning to the sport and all the news on what events to look forward to … it will all be revealed.

For further information on Merrittville Speedway’s Aaron’s Lucky Dog Kids Club and any other highlight of the 58th Season call the Winter Office at 905-685-7223 until April 1st or the Speedway Office during the season at 905-892-8266 or visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com.

Racing Legend Emerson Fittipaldi Unveiled as TW Steel Global Brand Ambassador

Amsterdam, The Netherlands (14 March, 2010) – TW Steel, the Dutch-based international watch brand – specializing in oversized timepieces, announced Sunday at the ‘Bahrain Grand Prix’ that Brazilian racing legend, Emerson Fittipaldi, is to become a Global Brand Ambassador.

Additionally, TW Steel has announced that to celebrate the association, it now plans to produce a TW Steel Emerson Fittipaldi watch – the design of which will feature direct input by Emerson himself.

Present at the Bahrain International Circuit to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the Formula One World Championship, Fittipaldi, the 1972 and 1974 F1 Drivers Champion, was unveiled to the assembled international motorsport media as the latest ambassador for ‘The Watch in Steel’.

“We are incredibly proud and excited to have someone of Emerson Fittipaldi’s iconic stature associated with TW Steel,” commented Stewart Bain, TW Steel’s Chief Commercial Officer.

“Emerson has a real energy about him that’s incredibly infectious. When we first introduced him to TW Steel he was so enthusiastic about the product we knew we wanted to partner with him immediately. We’re looking forward to working with him both as a brand ambassador but also as a commercial partner.

“With that in mind we will liaise with Emerson to design and produce a watch baring his name – something I’m sure fans of both his and TW Steel will embrace as a unique and exceptional timepiece. The fact that he has never been involved in such a personal design project before is a testament to not only his belief in TW Steel, but also his desire to offer a product that truly reflects the values that made him a legend on the race track and so popular off it.

”On his association with TW Steel Emerson Fittipaldi remarked; “I am naturally very excited to become a global brand ambassador for TW Steel. They boast a tremendous collection of watches and I’m obviously thrilled to be working with them to design a signature Emerson Fittipaldi edition. Watches are something I’ve always had an interest in but to be given the opportunity to work with TW Steel and create my own is very special. I look forward to sharing this project as it develops and representing TW Steel around the world.

”The 63-year-old from Sao Paulo, Brazil, retains his worldwide popularity courtesy of his enduring passion and enthusiasm for his sport. Following his success in Formula One, Fittipaldi enjoyed similar levels of success competing in North America. A two-time Indy 500 Champion, his triumphs coming in 1989 and 1993, Emerson also captured the 1989 CART Championship for Team Penske.

Details of the TW Steel Emerson Fittipaldi watch will be announced in due course. TW Steel will maintain a continued presence in Formula One this season as the ‘Official Timing Partner’ to the Renault F1 Team – part of a three-year relationship announced last October.

TW Steel, celebrating its fifth anniversary in 2010, continues to develop and lead the oversized watch market. A family-owned company, headed by 27-year-old Chief Executive Officer, Jordy Cobelens, ‘The Watch in Steel’, has emerged as an innovative, bold lifestyle brand – now available in over 50 countries worldwide.