Saturday, July 03, 2010
NCATS St-Eustache: Kennington takes wild finish at St-Eustache
NCATS St-Eustache: lap 105
Mark Dilley leads after pit stops. Pete Shepherd, Anthony Simone, Don Thomson and JR Fitzpatrick.
Scott Steckly was very fast rior to stops.
Roland Bernard Puts On Canada Day Passing Clinic
Greg Cybulski, WINNIPEG, MB (July 2, 2010) Roland Bernard showcased his determination and desire to repeat as Northern Lighting Sprint Association champion by putting on a passing clinic for the fans at Red River Co-op Speedway's Canada Day racing program.
Bernard swept the evening's races by winning both his heat race and the feature, much the chagrin of his latest victim, Tyson Hiebert. Plagued by problems in the first two races of the season, Hiebert had his #64 Lightning Sprint flying on Thursday night and may have had visions of a checkered flag had it not been for a stellar performance by the #2 Bernard Racing sprinter.
Starting in the seventh position, at the tail of the first 6 lap heat race, Roland Bernard quickly climbed to third on the first lap behind leader Dave Sobczak and Tyson Hiebert. On the very next circuit, the #2 Lightning Sprint took the lead and went on to win Heat 1 with Hiebert and Sobczak in pursuit.
In the second heat race, NLSA rookie Ryan Harms had a strong showing by taking the early lead from Bob Saindon and distancing himself from the field to win his first heat race of the 2010 racing season.
At the start of the 12 lap feature, Tyson Hiebert led the field of 13 cars into turn 1. The outside starting position appeared to be the preferred line as Hiebert (2nd), Dave Sobczak (4th), Chris Bouwman (6th) and Roland Bernard (8th) all found their way to the top four positions after the first lap.
On the second lap, Bernard passed Sobczak to take over second place and the chase for the lead was on.
On lap 4, Roland Bernard challenged Tyson Hiebert for the lead but could not make the pass. Two laps later, Bernard would make another attempt and this time with success. Hiebert would not have the opportunity to return the favor as he would have to settle for the runner up spot on this night.
In 18 laps, 2009 NLSA champion Roland Bernard had passed a total of 13 cars and captured two checkered flags in one amazing night of racing at Red River Co-op Speedway.
Amber Balcaen, who started in 7th position, steadily worked her way through the field and finished with a very respectable third place finish.
Rounding up the top was Roland Bernard, Tyson Hiebert, Amber Balcaen, Dave Sobczak and Chris Bouwman.
The next Northern Lightning Sprint Association race is scheduled for Thursday, July 22 at Red River Co-op Speedway.
Northern Lightning Sprint Association
Red River Co-op Speedway, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Heat 1
1. 2 Roland Bernard
2. 64 Tyson Hiebert
3. 17 Dave Sobczak
4. 13 Kevin Kotowich
5. 5 Chris Sorin
6. 27 Chris Unrau
7. 3X Bob Charney
Heat 2
1. 18 Ryan Harms
2. 11 Darren Pallen
3. 10 Amber Balcaen
4. 4C Chris Bouwman
5. 4 Bob Saindon
6. 6 Jennifer Carlson
Feature
1. 2 Roland Bernard
2. 64 Tyson Hiebert
3. 10 Amber Balcaen
4. 17 Dave Sobczak
5. 4C Chris Bouwman
6. 18 Ryan Harms
7. 27 Chris Unrau
8. 11 Darren Pallen
9. 13 Kevin Kotowich
10. 6 Jennifer Carlson
11. 5 Chris Sorin
12. 4 Bob Saindon
13. 3X Bob Charney
About the Northern Lightning Sprint Association:
Created in September of 2008, the Northern Lightning Sprint Association is a rapidly growing organization committed to the creation and maintenance of safe, fast, fun, and affordable open wheel racing. Many of the organization’s members are dedicated to helping charities such as the Children’s Hospital Foundation and Cancer Care of Manitoba. More information can be found at www.nlsprints.com
Friday, July 02, 2010
Scotia Speedworld: July 2 results
Unofficial Race Results for Report Card Night
Scotia Speedworld Weekly Racing Series
Halifax, NS – July 2nd, 2010
Results:
Tirecraft Lightning Division (20 laps)
1st #144 Russell Smith Jr
2nd #145 Nick Hurshman
3rd #199 Craig Cordeau
4th #158 Jamie Dillman
5th #155 Holly Geldart
Heat 1 #199 Craig Cordeau
Heat 2 #144 Russell Smith Jr
Legends Division (25 laps)
1st #37 Cy Harvey
2nd #98 Jerry Austin
3rd #6 Steve Pye
4th #1 Matt Moore
5th #46 Derek MacCallum
Heat 1 #65 Gary Bursey
Heat 2 #37 Cy Harvey
Heat 3 #10 Justin MacNeill
Truck Division (20 laps)
1st #08 Curtis Lindsay
2nd #26 Gordon Ritchie
3rd #80 Vernon Brown
4th #4 JP Arsenaut
5th #39 Dan Smith
Heat 1 #26 Gordon Ritchie
Sportsman Division (30 laps)
1st #5 Fred Schofield
2nd #24 Steve Ross
3rd #4 Aaron Boutillier
4th #75 Mike Alexander
5th #11 Jordan Veinotte
Heat 1 #2 Kirk Ryan
Heat 2 #69 Scott Thibodeau
Heat 3 #5 Kyle Butler
Hydraulics Plus Bandolero Division (15 laps)
1st #8 DJ Casey
2nd #15 Emily Meehan
3rd #5 Cole Butcher
4th #3 Jared Butcher
5th #0 Braden Langille
Heat1 #0 Braden Langille
Heat 2 #8 DJ Casey
The Weekly Racing Series returns to its roots next week for short track racing on Saturday Night! One of only two Saturday night shows for the Weekly Racing Series this season. $10.00 adult admission for Saturday July 10th only. For complete details, check out www.scotiaspeedworld.ca.
From Tara Foster
Delaware Speedway: Sheridan continues NASCAR Late Model domination
July 2, 2010 (London, Ontario) 2010 is becoming the season of Sheridan as the division points leader logs another win in the NASCAR Late Model division at Delaware Speedway. It was Whelen night and Emergency Service Personnel and their families were our guests for the evening.
As the race got underway, Rick Emery (14) had lap one but Scott Lindsay (20) grabbed the lead at lap 2 and held on until almost the end but Sheridan’s relentless run for the win and a late-race caution combined to give the #52 yet another trip to Victory Lane. Sheridan has started the race in 11th spot and worked his way up to 4th by half-way.
Andrew Gresel (81) was running second until a connection with Mark Watson (78) at lap 15 causing the race’s first caution and a black flag to Watson. That moved Emery back up to second place. Gresel was also nicked in a multi-car spin-out at lap 18, putting Sharpie’s yellow flag up again. School teacher Doug Stewart was also caught up. During that caution, Watson drove to pit road and exited his car. He hadn’t been involved in that particular incident and his car’s problems were unknown by our deadline.
With 11 laps to go, Scott Lindsay had a half-a-straightaway lead on Ron Sheridan when Marc Jacobs (8) did a solo spin and the caution flag flew again. The track was barely into green when Doug Stewart (2) got clipped and popped his right front tire and an all-too familiar ending to a race for Stewart this year – the end of a Whitworth Towing hook.
The remaining laps saw Ron Sheridan sticking to Lindsay like glue until lap 32 when the 52 took the lead and logged his fourth win of the season.
Steve Robblee did not race tonight because of what we’re told is a sore back after a crash in last Friday night’s Maple City Tire 100.
There was a false start in the Delaware Super Stocks feature as a half-dozen cars connected on turn two, including defending champion Jason Lidster. A complete restart was necessary with all of the cars identified as “accident cars” sent to the back of the pack.
Darrell Lake (77) got the pole for the restart and held on, refusing to give Jared Shields (7) a lane high or low. At lap 17, with Lake still in the lead, Jake Ott (60) finally worked his way around Shields for second place. At lap 20, Kris Lawrence (28) pushed Ott aside and took second and a lap later Scott Nagy (99) took a spin, bringing out a caution.
In the final couple of laps, Lawrence made some aggressive moves to get around Lake but didn’t quite make it happen. Lake took the feature followed by Lawrence and then Ott, Jason Lidster (11) and Stephen Richmond. Nearly everyone who got to the microphone praised Lake for all the work he’s done to get back out, in the past couple of weeks.
Three lead changes early on in the Demar Aggregates Trucks 25-lap feature and once Paul Fothergill -who had been running fourth in the standings - got out front, that’s where he stayed.
Gary Triska had the pole. At lap four, Chad Rijnen took over and Fothergill got it two laps later. With 33 out in a commanding lead, the 00 of Shawn Johns made a surge for second and took it from Rijnen at lap 16. Johns finished second followed by Rijnen. Michelle Korcina (99) was fourth and Gary Adriaensen (55) who had been leading the division, finished fifth.
The next race night is Wednesday July 7th - Delaware’s Summer Showdown presented by APC featuring Kyle Busch, David Reutimann and Jason Leffler. Some tickets remain for this spectacular event pitting some of NASCAR’s biggest stars against our local favourites. All the details are on www.delawarespeedway.com.
Bring your Showdown ticket stub to Delaware on Friday July 9th and get 50% off admission. And we’ve got a special purse for our King of the Hill spectator race – the top 3 finishers will share in a total of $1000 cash!
From Lisa Brandt, Publicity // lisa@delawarespeedway.com
Andrew Ranger nabs NASCAR K&N East Pole in Lime Rock debut
LAKEVILLE, Conn. (July 2, 2010) – Owner of six road course wins in NASCAR Touring series action, Andrew Ranger has even more of a leg up on the competition entering Saturday’s NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race as he won the pole for the K&N 100 Friday at Lime Rock Park.
Ranger, from Roxton Pond, Quebec, laid down a fast lap of 55.253 seconds (97.732 mph) during NASCAR group qualifying Friday at the 1.50-mile road course in Northwestern Connecticut to earn the K&N 100 Coors Light Pole Award. The pole is Ranger’s first in the K&N Pro Series East – in just his fourth series start – after he earned two championships in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Mobil 1.
“I’m really happy about it; it's my first pole of the year,” Ranger said. “We had a good practice, a really good car, I'm excited about tomorrow.”
Five of Ranger’s nine career wins in the Canadian Tire Series came on road courses. In June he added a sixth road course win in his K&N Pro Series West debut in Sonoma, Calif.
Friday marked his sixth overall pole, all if which have also come on road courses. Although he has tested at Lime Rock recently, the K&N 100 will be Ranger’s first race at the historic course.
“It’s a really tough track because there’s a couple places where it's very technical,” Ranger said. “I know a couple places where you can pass, but it's still really tough. It's great to start on the pole, we'll see how everything goes tomorrow.”
Cole Whitt just missed what would have been a third 2010 pole in Friday’s qualifying session. The Red Bull Racing development driver posted a fast lap of 55.289 seconds (97.669 mph), and will start on the front row Saturday outside of Ranger.
Three-time Lime Rock winner Matt Kobyluck qualified third (55.423/97.432), followed by Sergio Pena (55.892/96.615) and defending race winner Ryan Truex (55.959/96.499).
Brett Moffitt, Kevin Swindell, Ruben Rovelo, Miguel Paludo and Julian Albarracin rounded out the top 10 qualifiers.
The doubleheader of NASCAR racing is set to take the green flag on Saturday at 12:15 p.m., with the Whelen Modified Tour’s Lime Rock 100. The K&N 100 will follow at 2:15 p.m.
Qualifying Results
NASCAR K&N Pro Series East - K&N 100 Lineup
Race Saturday; Qualifying Friday
at Lime Rock Park
Lakeville, Conn.
Lap Length: 1.5 miles
1. (35) Andrew Ranger, Roxton Pond, Quebec, Chevrolet, 97.732
2. (84) Cole Whitt, Alpine, Calif., Toyota, 97.669
3. (40) Matt Kobyluck, Uncasville, Conn., Chevrolet, 97.432
4. (4) Sergio Pena, Winchester, Va., Chevrolet, 96.615
5. (00) Ryan Truex, Mayetta, N.J., Toyota, 96.499
6. (20) Brett Moffitt, Grimes, Iowa, Toyota, 96.017
7. (9) Kevin Swindell, Germantown, Tenn., Chevrolet, 95.789
8. (12) Ruben Rovelo, Mexico City, Mexico, Dodge, 95.721
9. (77) Miguel Paludo, New Silver, Brazil, Toyota, 95.645
10. (54) Julian Albarracin, Bogata, Columbia, Chevrolet, 95.189
11. (18) Max Gresham, Griffin, Ga., Toyota, 95.005
12. (61) Jonathan Smith, Beacon Falls, Conn., Chevrolet, 94.947
13. (71) Eddie MacDonald, Rowley, Mass., Chevrolet, 94.923
14. (81) Jason Holehouse, Toronto, Ontario, Chevrolet, 94.742
15. (2) Ryan Gifford, Winchester, Tenn., Chevrolet, 94.432
16. (30) Jeff Anton, Russell, Mass., Chevrolet, 94.320
17. (6) Darrell Wallace, Jr., Mobile, Ala, Chevrolet, 94.320
18. (98) John Murphy, Bolton, Conn., Chevrolet, 94.072
19. (37) Andrew Smith, Pooler, Ga., Chevrolet, 93.445
20. (7) Ryan Duff, Hazard, KY., Chevrolet, 93.235
21. (17) Jason Patison, Corona, Calif., Chevrolet, 92.674
22. (88) Larry Moloney, Wayland, Mass., Ford, 92.243
23. (60) D.J. Shaw, Conway, N.H., Chevrolet, 91.793
24. (63) John Salemi, Nashua, N.H., Chevrolet, 91.168
25. (24) Zach Germain, Bexley, Ohio, Toyota, 91.118
26. (26) Scott Bouley, Thomaston, Conn., Chevrolet, 90.508
27. (08) Guy Pavageau, Columbia, Md., Chevrolet, 87.345
28. (8) Mackena Bell, Carson City, Nev., Chevrolet, No speed
From NASCAR PR... h/t Shon Sbarra for sending it to Inside Track
PHOTO GALLERY: Wakefield Canada 5th Anniversary Celebrations
Wakefield Canada Inc. Celebrated their 5th anniversary on Wednesday June 30th by hosting a BBQ at their Toronto head office in Mimico, Ontario.
Wakefield Canada inc. Is the exclusive distributor and marketing partner of Castrol lubricants and has seen tremendous growth since its inception 5 years ago.
Part of the celebrations included Castrol sponsored race vehicles such as D.J.Kennington’s NASCAR Canadian Tire Series race car sporting Castrol’s new Edge livery, Al Hinds 2004 Corvette that races in the Pro Modified Racing Association with support from the Castrol SLX brand as well as Sasha Anis from the Castrol Canadian Tire series also with support from Castrol Edge brand.
Congratulations to Wakefield Canada & Castrol for a stellar five year partnership.
Words and Photos by Rob Morton / Inside Track.
PHOTO GALLERY: NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Race #2 at Mosport Int'l Raceway
This is a 255-photo gallery from the June 13, 2010 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series race at Mosport International Raceway. Photos by G. MacPherson / Inside Track.
NCATS: Statistical Advance: Analyzing The National 250 At Autodrome St. Eustache
Autodrome St. Eustache
Race: #3 of 13 (6/13/10)
Track Layout: .4-mile, flat oval
Race Length: 250 laps (100.0 miles)
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (June 30, 2010) – The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Mobil 1 visits Autodrome St. Eustache (Que.), located just northwest of Montreal on Saturday, July 3 in the 2010 season’s third event. It is the second of eight oval track races that are in companion with the five road-course events on the slate of events. Additionally, it is the first of three trips the series will make to Quebec this year with road-course events at Trois-Rivieres and Montreal to follow. Below is a statistical look at the performance of selected drivers at Autodrome St. Eustache, as well as some statistical trends:
Ron Beauchamp Jr. (No. 60 Mopar/Mobil 1 Dodge)
· Has one top-five finish (third on May 23, 2009) in three starts at Autodrome St. Eustache (ASE)
· Finished sixth in inaugural series race at the track on July 5, 2008
· Has led a total of 56 laps on the .4-mile flat oval
· Nine top-10 finishes in last 11 outings dating back to last season
John Gaunt (No. 11 Triad Racing Technologies Dodge)
· Finished third on July 12, 2009 at ASE
· Logged a 16th-place finish on July 5, 2008
· Is splitting time behind the wheel this season with Jason Bowles handling the duties on selected road courses and Gaunt driving on the oval tracks
Mark Dilley (No. 9 PartSource/Exide Dodge)
· Posted his only top five in St. Eustache in the 2009 season opener with a finish in fifth
· Logged finishes of 20th and 21st in other two series starts at the track due to mechanical troubles
· Has started each of the three events inside the top 10
JR Fitzpatrick (No. 84 Schick Hydro Chevrolet)
· Finished fifth in his only ASE start on July 5, 2008
· Collected his fifth series victory in last outing on June 13 at Mosport Int’l Raceway
· Is the current leader in the championship driver point standings
· Finished seventh on June 19 at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisc., in his first NASCAR Nationwide Series start in 2009 and first for JR Motorsports
Jason Hathaway (No. 3 Snap-on Tools/Rockstar Energy Drink Dodge)
· Has a pair of eight-place finishes in three starts at Autodrome St. Eustache
· Led a total of 16 laps — all in 2008 — in St. Eustache
· Has a current streak of five top 10s dating back to the 2009 season
DJ Kennington (No. 17 Castrol Edge Dodge)
· Finished twice as race runner-up — both to Scott Steckly — at ASE
· Other St. Eustache start resulted in a 16th-place finish due to engine difficulties
· Won pole position on July 12, 2009 with a series track record time of 17.210 seconds (83.672 mph)
· Collected his fifth series-career win in 2010 season opener on June 5 at Delaware (Ont.) Speedway
· Has a current streak of three straight top-10 finishes including a pair of wins dating back to the final race of the 2009 season
Joey McColm (No. 50 WATCH IT!/Atto Insurance Dodge)
· Has made just one St. Eustache stat and finished 23rd on July 5, 2008
Kerry Micks (No. 02 BDI/Dickies Ford)
· Has a pair of podium finishes in three Autodrome St. Eustache starts
· Third start at ASE resulted in a sixth-place finish
· Has led 49 laps in his three St. Eustache outings
· Has one oval-track wins (Mosport Speedway in 2008) and two (Montreal and Trois-Rivieres in 2007) road-course wins in NCATS action
Andrew Ranger (No. 27 Dodge Dealers of Quebec Dodge)
· Has posted two top-five finishes (fourth) in three starts at the track
· Remaining start was a sixth-place effort in last year’s season opener in which he led a race-high 144 laps
· Has led a total of 230 laps, most of any driver, at the track
· Will be competing in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East event at Lime Rock Park in Lakeville, Conn., earlier in the day
· Is a two-time NASCAR Canadian Tire Series champion (2007 & 2009)
· Holds overall career series mark for wins at nine
Anthony Simone (No. 95 Graphix Factory/Castrol/Bell Chevrolet)
· Has a track career-best finish of 12th in his debut race in St. Eustache
· Posted finishes of 13th and 15th in other two ASE starts
Dexter Stacey (No. 55 Bully’s Truck Stop Dodge)
· Has finishes of 18th and 21st in two starts at Autodrome St. Eustache
· Was 2009 rookie-of-the-year runner-up to Joey Hanssen
Scott Steckly (No. 22 Canadian Tire/MotoMaster Dodge)
· Has a pair of wins — July 5, 2008 and July 12, 2009 — in three St. Eustache outings
· Third start was a fourth-place effort on May 23, 2009
· Won the pole award in the 2009 season opener on May 23
· Has led a total of 204 laps in Autodrome St. Eustache action
· Has seven NASCAR Canadian Tire Series wins to his credit
· Won 2008 series championship
Don Thomson Jr. (No. 4 Home Hardware Chevrolet)
· Best St. Eustache finish was ninth on May 23, 2009 in three starts at the track
· Other two starts resulted in 17th-place finishes
· Has led 110 laps at Autodrome St. Eustache
· Won pole in series inaugural event at the track on July 5, 2008
· Holds the overall series career mark for poles with 11
· Ranks third on the all-time series wins list with five
Derek White (No. 99 OCR Gaz Bar Chevrolet)
· Has finishes of 11th and 16th in his two St. Eustache starts
Jason White (No. 21 A&W/Zimmer-Wheaton GMC Chevrolet)
· At St. Eustache, equaled his series career-best finish of seventh on May 23, 2009
· Has made two other ASE starts with finishes of 15th and 14th
· Has led four laps at Autodrome St. Eustache
· Earned series top-rookie honors in 2008
NASCAR CANADIAN TIRE SERIES presented by MOBIL 1 AT AUTODROME ST. EUSTACHE
· This is the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series’ fourth visit to Autodrome St. Eustache
· After making two trips to St. Eustache in 2009, just a single race fit into the 2010 calendar
· Two St. Eustache events have been effected by weather — in 2008, a May date was washed out and re-set for July 5 while 2009’s July event was pushed to Sunday after heavy rain closed the door on Saturday
· Between Andrew Ranger (230) and Scott Steckly (204), they have led 57.2 percent of the 759 laps logged, to date, in three series races
· Four drivers — Pierre Bourque, Steven Mathews, Pete Shepherd III and Ron Sheridan — will be making their series debuts at the venue.
· Dodge is the only manufacturer to win at the track behind Scott Steckly (2) and Dave Whitlock
· There has been an average of 11.33 caution periods in three events at the Quebec short track
FromShon Sbarra, NASCAR Public Relations
PHOTOS: NASCAR Canadian Tire Series teams test at Flamboro Speedway
Speedway where Peter Shepherd (7), Kerry Micks (02) and Steven Mathews
(15) tested their cars in advance of the July 3 race at Montreal's
Autodrome St-Eustache. Thanks Dave!
Ford of Canada sales up 16%... best month in 10 years
OAKVILLE, Ontario, July 2, 2010 – Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited saw sales increase 16 per cent in June, marking the best month on record in 10 years. With 31,707 units sold, Ford of Canada posted its highest monthly sales since May 2000. Ford finishes the first half of 2010 with sales up 23 per cent, making the company the top-selling automaker in Canada. This marks the first time in more than 50 years that Ford has lead the market for two consecutive quarters.
"Any increase for Ford of Canada this month is significant when you consider that we are comparing this June's sales to an unprecedented month this time last year. In June 2009, we were the only major manufacturer to show a sales increase (Ford sales were up 25%) in an industry that was down 14 per cent and where two key competitors were in bankruptcy," said David Mondragon, president and CEO, Ford of Canada. "Customers are rewarding Ford for delivering new products they want and value – products offering leading fuel economy, quality and resale value. That’s why our business is growing."
In fact, the average resale values of Ford vehicles in Canada have increased 28 per cent during the past 18 months, according to the RVI Used Car Price Index, as a result of stronger demand for Ford's new lineup along with improved quality and durability ratings. This increase translates into an average increase of $2,196 per Ford vehicle - more than double the industry average for the same period. That means more money in customers' pockets when it is time to sell or trade their Ford for a new vehicle.
"The Ford brand now has the highest initial quality among all non-luxury brands, proving that the long-term focus on delivering value to customers is working," said Mondragon.
June Highlights:
* Overall vehicle sales increased 16%
* Total car sales up were up 23%
* Total truck sales rose 13%
* Ford Focus sales increased 12%
* Ford Mustang sales were up 32%
* Ford Fusion sales rose 41%
* Ford Taurus sales jumped 145%
* Ford Escape sales increased 23%
* Ford Explorer sales rose 79%
* Ford F-Series sales were up 27%
* Lincoln MKZ sales increased 26%
* Lincoln MKS sales rose 35%
* Lincoln MKX sales were up 26%
* Overall Lincoln sales increased 16%
From Ford of Canada
RIVERSIDE INT'L SPEEDWAY: NASCAR's Marcos Ambrose enters IWK 250 after injury sidelines Regan Smith
JAMES RIVER, NS (July 2, 2010) - Marcos Ambrose, driver of the No. 47 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series car and two-time V8 Supercar champion, will replace fellow NASCAR driver Regan Smith behind the wheel of the No. 10 Cat Car for Kids in the July 17 IWK 250 presented by Steve Lewis Auto Body. The swap became necessary after Smith fractured his left wrist during a recent race in California.
Ambrose, from Launceston in Tasmania, Australia, where he was known as "Devil Racer" has been competing in NASCAR competition since 2006 when he started in the Camping World Truck Series. In 2007 he stepped up to the Nationwide Series. It was an on-track incident in the Montreal Nationwide Series race that year that got Ambrose his start in Sprint Cup competition.
A road course specialist, Ambrose was leading the Montreal race when Robby Gordon and he tussled for the lead. Gordon spun after being nudged by Ambrose under green; Gordon retaliated by spinning Ambrose under yellow, while leading; after Gordon cooled down he offered Ambrose restitution by giving him the chance to drive his Cup car in an upcoming road course race at Watkins Glen.
Ambrose finished the '07 season eighth in the Nationwide Series point standings - the highest of any driver not competing full-time on the Sprint Cup Series. In 2008 he moved to part-time competition on the Sprint Cup Series; he also scored his first Nationwide Series win that year - at Watkins Glen - a road course. The next day after his win he finished third in Sprint Cup competition at "the Glen" behind NASCAR stars Kyle Busch (first) and Tony Stewart (second). He finished 10th overall in the Nationwide point standings in '08.
In 2009 Ambrose's team owner, former NBA player Brad Daugherty formed an alliance with Michael Waltrip Racing to create the team Ambrose currently drives for in Sprint Cup competition. Ambrose piloted the No. 47 car to a 17th-place finish in the series 2009 championship point standings with four top fives and seven top 10s. A part-time Nationwide campaign in '09 saw Ambrose successfully defend his '08 win at Watkins Glen.
Perhaps the most disappointing moment in Ambrose`s racing career came just a few weeks ago in Sprint Cup competition at a road course in California - ironically the same event in which Regan Smith fractured his wrist. Ambrose had dominated the race and was leading four-time series champion Jimmie Johnson when a miscue under caution with less than 10 laps to go saw Ambrose forfeit the lead to Johnson who went on to win the race while Ambrose finished sixth. He is currently 27th in 2010 Sprint Cup Series driver point standings.
Ambrose's venture to Riverside International Speedway this month marks his first trip to Nova Scotia - indeed his first trip anywhere in Canada except Montreal (for the Nationwide race).
"I'm looking forward to going there," said Ambrose. "That was actually one of reasons we decided to make this last-minute change to our summer schedule."
When Ambrose climbs behind the wheel of the Cat Car for Kids it will be his first time in a late model/pro stock type race car - and he plans to seek advice from 2008 IWK 250 winner Regan Smith about what to expect.
"This is my first time in one of those cars," said Ambrose. "You can rest assured I'll be talking to Regan this weekend to get some pointers."
Both Ambrose and Smith are at Daytona International Speedway this weekend for a Sprint Cup Series race. While Smith continues to compete on NASCAR's top level since his injury, all "extracurricular" activities have been halted, particularly over the July 17 off-weekend so to help the healing process.
Smith is disappointed he won't get a chance to redeem himself after a late-race run-in cost him a top finish.
"I was looking forward to going back to Riverside for the 250," said Smith. "It's been a highlight of my schedule for the past three years."
Ambrose, a second generation racer, had a full racing career in Europe and Australia before making his move to North America and NASCAR. He won four Tasmanian Junior karting titles before starting senior competition at age 16. In 1999 he won the 1999 British Formula Ford championship. He was the 2001 V8 Supercar rookie of the year and went on to win championships in that series in 2003 and 2004.
The IWK 250 weekend expands to a three-day event this year and runs from July 15 to July 17. Thursday will see an afternoon practice for all divisions and an evening concert. Friday will see the Napa Sportsman Super Series and Maritime Legends Tour featured on the race card. Saturday will be a full day of pro stock competition starting at 2:30 with time trials followed by heat races at 4 p.m., an autograph session while fans are entertained by Abbey Road - a Beatles tribute band, the B Feature and then the much anticipated IWK 250.
In the last three years the IWK 250 presented by Steve Lewis Auto Body has raised awareness and more than $60,000 for the IWK Health Care Centre in Halifax, the regions top children and women's hospital.
Tickets are now available for the IWK 250 weekend at Riverside International Speedway's. Visit www.riversidespeedway.ca or call 902.863.2410 for seating information and ticket prices.
Riverside International Speedway, a 1/3-mile high banked asphalt oval, is located in James River, between New Glasgow and Antigonish, at exit 30 off Trans Canada Highway 104. Opened in 1969, the facility was completely rebuilt in 2006 to become a premiere motorsports site, comparable to the best short tracks in Canada and the U.S. For more information about Riverside International Speedway, please visit www.riversidespeedway.ca or call 902.863.2410.
From Joan Roue
Brighton Speedway: Canada Day Celebrations Continue this Saturday
BRIGHTON, ON - Another year has passed and we invite you to continue the celebrations of our countries great birthday with our own version of the Canada Day Championships! This year they fall on Saturday, July 3rd and the place will be pumped as racers, crews, fans and staff get set for some extra laps, double points and extra money on the line in all divisions brought to you by Brighton Automotive!
The Vanderlaan Building Supplies Late Models, Bainer's Radiator Canadian Modifieds, Brighton Automotive Pro Stocks and the Bills Johns Comp 4 divisions will all kick it off at 5:00 pm for the once yearly event of time trials. On the line for the fastest cars will will be poll position in both the heats and feature events as drivers take to the track for two laps all by themselves to strut their suff and see who can come away with bragging rights for fastest lap.
At 7:00 pm the green flag drops on the heats, building up to the main event that will feature a 40 Lap Late Model Feature, 40 Lap Canadian Modified Feature, 30 Lap Pro Stock Feature and 20 Lap Comp 4 feature. When darkness arrives the night sky at Brighton Speedway will be lit up with the awesome fire works display supplied by Mystical Distributing, Trenton!
Schedule for Saturday, July 3rd
Pit gate opens - 3 pm
Spectator Gate opens - 4 pm
Time trials begin- 5 pm
Racing starts 7 pm
Also be sure to mark on Saturday, July 17th on your calendar as Brighton Speedway and some of our great sponsors have announced the first ever Mid-Summer Scorcher Event. Brighton Speedway Late Models and Canadian Modified will be taking on some of the best drivers in their classes from upstate New York as we present this unique invitational event. Late Models will compete for a cool $1,500.00 to win 40 lap main event while the Canadian Modifieds will take on the best IMCA Modifieds for $1,000.00 to win in a 30 lap shootout. There will also be additional laps and a bonus to the winners of the Pro Stocks and the Comp 4. July is just around the corner and expected to be hot, you can expect nothing less from the racing at Brighton Speedway so make sure you plan on being here all summer long!
For complete details on this Saturdays Canada Day Championships or other great events please visit www.brightonspeedway.com.
Thursday, July 01, 2010
Merrittville Speedway: Boltworks Night is this Saturday
THOROLD, ON - When it comes to Boltworks Night at Merrittville Speedway this Saturday July 3rd – you can only think two things. Be there … and be hungry! Boltworks will present $1.00 Pillers Hot Dogs all night long in the grandstand while on the track - racing action will feature all 5 Lucas Oil Weekly Racing Series Divisions plus Round Two of the Grantham Lions Ironman Enduro Qualifiers accelerated by Niagara College. A Firemaster Productions Fireworks Display will also provide lots of excitement above the track.
“What a display Sean and his staff put together last season,” remembers (Merrittville GM) Erica Bicknell, “our fans probably still have all the sights and sounds clearly in their heads!”
The Enduro winner will become the second driver to qualify for a potential $500 Bonus from Niagara College if he or she can win the September 12th 100 lap Enduro. James Mercer won the first qualifier in the May 24th Monday Night Madness Event presented by Zavitz Financial Strategies & Employee Benefits.
Victory in the 100 could be even more lucrative for the winner with a guaranteed starting spot in the $10,000 US to win Enduro that closes Black Rock Speedway’s season.
“We’re happy to celebrate the end of school and both Canada and the US Birthdays with the mid season Fan Appreciation Special,” adds Bicknell, “6 divisions of racing … $1.00 Hot Dogs all night and FIREWORKS … there’s definitely something on the menu for everyone.”
Merrittville Speedway invites race fans to enjoy the great taste of Pillers anytime – look for Pillers at your favorite grocery store in Niagara or visit pillers.com.
Boltworks have been long time supporters of Merrittville Speedway. Owners Sandy Howe and Ross Trout of Boltworks each have more than 20 years of experience each in the fastener industry with vast product knowledge that you won’t find just anywhere.
Sandy and Ross know the nuts and bolts of nuts and bolts and their Eastchester Avenue East location has a complete supply of industrial fasteners – bolts, screws, nuts, washers, threaded rod, rivets, pins, drills, bits, taps, driver bits, hex keys, tools, industrial sprays and more.
Race fans and race teams can visit Boltworks on line at www.boltworks.ca.
Younger race fans will surely want to visit their display Saturday July 3rd to be eligible to win bikes donated by long time Boltworks sponsored driver Kory Howe (J&S Heating and Air Conditioning Modified Lite) and Boltworks’ own Sandy Howe who in recent years has been competing in the Enduro Events.
In 2010, Boltworks is also supporting drivers Paul Klager who drives the Ripley’s Believe It or Not #1 in the same division as Howe as well as the Gaston Auto Sales Andrew Sittler owned #37s driven by Boyd MacTavish.
Enduro Racing at Merrittville Speedway is enjoying a resurgence over the last couple seasons – all leading to the season-ending Motorized Mayhen Event that will feature the Grantham Lions Ironman Enduro Series Finale 100 lap event accelerated by Niagara College.
Enduro Racing is something that just about anyone can get on track with. Just find yourself a car and with some safety modifications – you’re in the show. Depending on the outcome of each qualifier, a driver could run the same car through-out the summer and then again in the Fall Main Event.
“Our Enduros attract all kinds,” relates (GM) Erica Bicknell, “ drivers with no experience … some that have run this type of event before and even some of our regular Saturday Night competitors … but in the end it’s more survival than experience that counts.”
For Enduro Rules and Specifications – visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com. Rules are also available from the Speedway Office during the season and the Novelty Trailer on race nights.
“We’re thrilled that the Grantham Lions are quite involved in the sport this season,” added Bicknell, “it’s a great organization … heavily involved in the community … and we share the same anniversary!”
The Grantham Lions Club was formed in 1952 and is heavily involved in minor sports organizations and like other Lions Clubs worldwide – has Lions Eye Care as a major project.
For information on how you can become a member of the club – visit www.granthamlionsclub.com or visit Hoosier Stock competitor and Lion Ron MacAulay and club members at the track this summer.
Events that race fans should make note of are their Fish Frys the first Friday of every month.
For information on Hall Rentals for your next event – call 905-935-8434.
Individuals considering re-training for a new career are encouraged to take a serious look at the many programs and opportunities available at Niagara College. For further information on technology, apprenticeship and skills training visit niagaracollege.ca and accelerate your career. Should none of the three drivers come home #1 in the big event – the $500 will still be given away via a draw of starting positions.
“Preregistering now takes on a whole new meaning,” reveals Bicknell, “anyone that enters by September 1st – will be eligible for a chance at $50 bonuses.”
For further information on the 59th Season call the Speedway Office at 905-892- 8266 or visit the award winning www.merrittvillespeedway.com. Race fans and Race teams alike can follow Merrittville on Face Book (Facebook.com/Merrittville Speedway) and Twitter (Twitter.com/Merrittville).
From Jim Irvine / Merrittville Speedway
Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship: Ready for ICAR
MIRABEL, QC - The Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship presented by Toyo Tires return for round three this weekend at the Mirabel Grand Prix at Circuit ICAR just north of Montreal on the Mirabel Airport facility’s technical 3km tarmac road course. Currently 36+ drivers are slated to be on hand this weekend racing in two extremely competitive car classes. An event that you just won’t want to miss.
Watch for hometown favourites, Nick Wittmer, who is currently leading the ST Class championship, and Nigel Heron driving for Lombardi Honda in the Super Touring Class. Audette Racing’s Matthew Audette and GT Racing Etienne Borgeat will also be on hand and will be pulling out all the stops in an attempt to take the top spots on the podium.
Touring Class stars include Vaudreuil-Dorian native Alain Lauziere in his potent Octane Motorsports MINI Cooper alongside teammate Michel Sallenbach from Roxton Pond. Other noted Quebec drivers such as Joycelyn Hebert, Paul Dargis and Luc Richard will be doing everything they can to attack the Touring class current points leader. Although they may be local favourites to win, the large contingent of Ontario based drivers such as Touring class points leader Anthony Rapone, his Durabond Racing teammate Karl Thomson, M&S Racing’ Tom Kwok and Pfaff Motorsports VW Golf pilot P. J. Groenke will be doing their best to bring championship podiums back home with them.
Canada's Best Racers Racing Today's Hottest Touring Cars will be going door to door in what fans can expect to be some of the season hottest action. Brands being showcased by the competitors this weekend include Acura, BMW, Nissan, Honda, Hyundai, Chevrolet, Pontiac, Mazda, Toyota, Volkswagen and Subaru.
The CCTCC will be the feature race series this weekend with a full 30-minute practice session, a 30-minute qualifying session and a thrilling 30-minute race on Saturday as well as a 20 minute warm up and capping off the weekend with a 30 minute feature race on Sunday.
The Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship Presented By Toyo Tires is Canada's Premiere Touring Car Series and features Canada's Best Drivers Racing Today's Hottest Touring Cars. The Championship is showcased at seven event weekends in Quebec and Ontario will marquee events at Grand Prix de Trois-Rivieres and Honda Indy Toronto.
For further information check out www.touringcar.ca.
OHSWEKEN SPEEDWAY: 3rd annual Northern Summer Nationals this Friday
OHSWEKEN, ON – The sixth round of Ohsweken Speedway’s Friday Night Thunder hits the track this Friday, July 2nd with a big event. This week’s event is presented by Jones-Brown Insurance, and features the third annual “Northern Summer Nationals” for the Corr/Pak Merchandising Sprint Cars, Southern Ontario Sprints, ASCS Sprints on Dirt, and ASCS Patriots. The ESSO Thunder Stocks, ESSO Mini Stocks, and Bombers will also be a part of this special night.
A large field of Sprint Cars is expected on Friday night at Ohsweken for the third annual Northern Summer Nationals event. The Northern Summer Nationals feature winner is slated to take home a $3,000 prize, and all four participating sanctioning bodies will be awarding points towards their respective championships on Friday.
Dave Dykstra of Port Colborne is back on top of Ohsweken’s weekly Corr/Pak Merchandising division standings thanks to a second place finish last Friday. Dykstra leads by just three points over current Southern Ontario Sprints points leader Keith Dempster of Alton, and by just five markers over South Dayton, NY’s Kyle Moffit. Defending Corr/Pak champion and 2009 Northern Summer Nationals winner Tom Huppunen is currently eighth in points and has one feature win this year.
Dempster leads the SOS standings by a comfortable margin over Consecon driver Tyler Rand, while Ohsweken’s Glenn Styres sits third. Dempster got the win in the SOS opener at Brighton in May, while Jamie Collard of Burford took the most recent series win back at Brighton on June 19. Collard is expected to debut a second car for Miles Hill on Friday at Ohsweken as a teammate to Mike Ling of Mount Brydges. Ling made a spectacular charge through the field last Friday at Ohsweken to finish third after starting seventeenth.
Jared Zimbardi of Salamanca, NY is the ASCS Patriots championship leader heading into Friday. 2008 Northern Summer Nationals winner Brian Howland of Auburn, NY is second on the list, followed by Brookfield, CT driver Jimmy “Bubba” Broderick. Zimbardi has been a semi-regular visitor to Ohsweken in recent years, and already has three starts under his belt at the track this year. In each of those events, he finished in the top five.
Dain Naida of Tecumseh, MI leads the ASCS Sprints on Dirt tour to Ohsweken by a narrow three point margin over St. Johns, MI driver Ryan Grubaugh, while Gregg Dalman of Bellvue, MI is third. Naida was in action at Ohsweken last Friday and claimed the feature win in dominating fashion. Portland, MI driver Dustin Daggett is also expected at Ohsweken Friday night. The twenty-seven year old has six career feature wins at Ohsweken, including one on the Friday of Northern Summer Nationals when it was a two day event in 2008.
Billy Bleich of Port Robinson continues to lead the ESSO Thunder Stock standings after taking second and seventh place finishes in last week’s Twin Fifteens. Caledonia’s Lee Winger and Jamie Cox of Cambridge are tied for second, sixteen points behind. Jeremy Bean of Stoney Creek, and Grimsby’s Rob Disher round out the top five. Mike Thorne and Devin Habiuk took the wins in the Twin Fifteens last week, and both are expected back this week despite the damage Thorne’s car suffered.
Trevor Goulding of Welland holds a twenty-five point lead in the ESSO Mini Stock standings. Amazingly, his third place last Friday was his worst finish all year at Ohsweken. Brantford’s Kevin Hilborn, Craig Erskine of Brantford, Paul Goodale, and Caledonia’s Mike Evers round out the top five. Abel Castelein of Cayuga won last week’s feature in thrilling fashion, beating Hilborn by just a few inches.
Karl Sault of Dundas leads the Bomber division standings, followed by Hamilton’s Kacey Huffman and John Cote, and Jeremy Hughes and Shawn Ireland, both of Burlington. The Bombers also ran twin features last week, with Hughes and Adam Reidel taking the wins.
Advanced reserved seat tickets for the World of Outlaws Sprint Cars July 30 and 31 at Ohsweken, and Canadian Sprint Car Nationals September 16, 17, and 18 at Ohsweken are on sale now! Please visit www.OhswekenSpeedway.com and call 1-888-720-RACE to order yours today!
Ohsweken Speedway’s Friday Night Thunder returns this Friday, July 2nd when Jones-Brown Insurance presents the third annual “Northern Summer Nationals” for the Corr/Pak Merchandising Sprint Cars, Southern Ontario Sprints, ASCS Sprints on Dirt, and ASCS Patriots, plus a full card featuring the ESSO Thunder Stocks, ESSO Mini Stocks, and Bombers.
Jones-Brown Insurance helps you manage the ‘total cost of risk,’ by working with you to identify, measure and address the entire financial impact of your risk. For more information about Jones-Brown Insurance, please visit their website at www.JonesBrown.com.
Spectator gates open @ 6:00p.m., with the first race taking the green flag at 7:45p.m. this Friday, July 2nd!
From Tommy Goudge
Jordan Szoke goes for seventh Parts Canada Superbike title July 9-11 at Mosport
BOWMANVILLE, ON – Wayne Gretzky may be Brantford, Ont.'s most recognizable athlete, but now there is another who is dominating his sport and re-writing the record books in much the same manner, Jordan Szoke.
Szoke is doing what he was born to do - win. He has become his sport's biggest superstar and in 2010 will look to set himself apart from every rider in Canadian Superbike history, as he chases down a record-breaking seventh series title and fifth in-a-row.
After receiving his expert motorcycle license at 15, he quickly rose through the ranks and captured his first National Championship just two short years are he first started.
The 31-year-old has racked up 12 National Championships over his illustrious 15-year career including his recent domination of the Parts Canada Superbike and Yoshimura Pro Sport Bike classes. He has won the title in both classes for the past four years and will be seeking to extend his streak to five.
Szoke started his 2010 campaign in a flawless manner. He has won all three races in both the Superbike class and the Pro Sport Bike class. His latest doubleheader sweep at Race City in Calgary, AB, on June 26, 27 has given the superstar 32 Superbike victories in his career, most by any rider in series history.
This year he has switched from the Factory Kawasaki Racing Team to a Honda CBR 1000RR. The #1 Wanzie Racing/BMC Ciclo Werks/DeWildt Honda rider will be seeking to stand alone at the top of the record books. His six Superbike titles leave him tied with Steve Crevier who last won the crown in 2001.
Not only is Szoke known for his on-track performance, he is also recognized for his off-track charity work. He regularly competes in the Wayne Gretzky Celebrity Golf Tournaments and help raise donations for the Princess Margaret Cancer Research Centre. Adding to his credentials, Szoke has also been inducted into the Brantford Sports Hall of Fame, received the Award of Merit from the Walter Gretzky Foundation and has won the Brantford Athlete of the Year honours.
The pride of Brantford will be looking to wrap-up his run for the record series championship when he and his fellow riders come to Mosport International Raceway for the Parts Canada Superbike Doubleheader Weekend, July 9-11. It will be rounds four and five for the Superbike class in 2010 out of the seven total races held. Over his career Szoke has seven Superbike victories at Mosport, more than any other rider.
Friday (July 9) will feature practice sessions in the morning and then qualifying in the afternoon including the Pirelli Superpole Qualifying for the Superbikes. Saturday (July 10) will have the weekend's first races including the Superbike and Pro Sport Bike classes. Sunday (July 11) be have the second half of the weekend doubleheader points races.
SZOKE'S WIFE ALSO RACING AT MOSPORT
Jordan Szoke's wife, Amy, will also be competing in front of the Mosport faithful in two classes, the Honda Oil Women's Cup and the Armour Bodies Amateur Sport Bike. In the highly competitive Amateur Sport Bike class she has finished 18th, 11th and 10th respectively through the first three races of the season.
The 30-year-old's best result in her 2010 campaign came in the Women's Cup where she narrowly missed making the podium, finishing fourth overall. Currently, she sits in eighth place overall in the points standings.
She began racing in 2006 and made her debut at Mosport in 2009 in the Women's Cup, finishing second in the back half of the doubleheader. She and Jordan were married in February 2010.
For more information and to purchase tickets call the Mosport Hotline at 1-800-866-1072 (Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm ET), visit online at www.mosport.com, or email info@mosport.com
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
BOURQUE PREPARES FOR ST. EUSTACHE DEBUT
This will be Bourque’s first attempt at the tricky 4/10 mile flat oval track just outside
Through the first two events the #00 Telus Dodge driver has shown resilience and persistence and the results have paid dividends. “I had my best ever Canadian NASCAR series finish of sixth in the opening round, and even with some pit stop troubles we were fifteenth at Mosport, these kinds of results show we’re a team that’s gelled together very quickly” enthused the driver
With those two solid finishes #00 Telus Dodge driver Bourque finds himself sitting seventh in the overall championship standings. “I’m very proud of how well we’ve done as a team so far this year, I hope we can continue to carry that momentum forward” said Bourque.
Autodrome St. Eustache can be a tricky and difficult track to maneuver so
“I’ve received some good information on technique to handle this track and the traffic from my teammate DJ Kennington so I think we’ll have a very positive result. I’ll be keeping everyone posted on our progress by tweeting on my Telus iphone” said the driver.
Attached Photo: Pierre Bourque, in the #00 Telus Dodge at Mosport International Raceway.
Photo Credit: Todd Lewis
About Pierre Bourque: Pierre Bourque will participate in select events of the 2010 Canadian NASCAR Series in his #00 Telus Dodge.
About Telus Mobility: Telus is unique in the Canadian market because we now operate three distinct wireless networks: 3G+, 3G (CDMA) and Mike (iDEN). When you choose Telus, you get clear and simple pricing, the latest and greatest devices, an exceptional client experience plus
TW Steel Backs Dutch Kart Star Max Koebolt
Amsterdam, The Netherlands (June 30, 2010) – TW Steel, the international brand ‘Big in Oversized Watches’, is proud to be announcing its support of Dutch karting star Max Koebolt ahead of his participation in the FIA World Championship Karting Series.
The 12-year-old, currently the youngest karter competing in the Dutch, German and WSK karting series in the Junior KF3 category, has been selected to represent The Netherlands by the FIA and the Dutch Racing Association in the World Championships, starting next month in Germany before moving on to races in Spain and France in August and October respectively.
“I’m delighted to align TW Steel with Max in support of his participation in the FIA World Championship Karting Series,” stated Jordy Cobelens, CEO of TW Steel. “He’s a great ambassador for Dutch racing having proved his talent as soon as he sat in a go-kart.
“TW Steel is heavily involved in motorsport so with our new relationship with Max we literally cover karting through to Formula One. I’m particularly proud to support him as a fellow Dutchman. Of course we already enjoy long-term relationships with Tim and Tom Coronel, two of The Netherlands finest racing drivers, but I’m particularly happy to be supporting the next generation of talent in Max Koebolt.
”Proud to be displaying TW Steel branding on his overalls and race helmet, Max was equally enthusiastic to praise his new partner; “This is an exciting time and to have TW Steel backing me is great,” said Max. “To be supported by them and join the likes of the Coronel brothers, David Coulthard, Dario Franchitti and Emerson Fittipaldi as an ambassador is pretty special. I look forward to representing The Netherlands and enjoying the opportunity to compete against some of the best karters in the world!
”Koebolt’s rise to prominence came almost as quickly as he started karting, becoming Dutch Champion in the Mini-Junior category in 2007. He won the title again in 2008 before receiving dispensation to compete in 2009 in the Junior Category, officially for karters aged between 13-15 years. Aged just 11, Max won all his races in this class to once again be crowned Dutch Champion. His success that year led to an invitation from Yamaha Europe to compete in the World Cup Yamaha Series in Suzuka, Japan.
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 and co-owner, Jordy Cobelens, ‘The Watch in Steel’, has emerged as an innovative, bold lifestyle brand – now available in over 50 countries worldwide. TW Steel is also the ‘Official Timing Partner’ to the Renault F1 Team.ENDS – www.twsteel.com
The 12-year-old, currently the youngest karter competing in the Dutch, German and WSK karting series in the Junior KF3 category, has been selected to represent The Netherlands by the FIA and the Dutch Racing Association in the World Championships, starting next month in Germany before moving on to races in Spain and France in August and October respectively.
“I’m delighted to align TW Steel with Max in support of his participation in the FIA World Championship Karting Series,” stated Jordy Cobelens, CEO of TW Steel. “He’s a great ambassador for Dutch racing having proved his talent as soon as he sat in a go-kart.
“TW Steel is heavily involved in motorsport so with our new relationship with Max we literally cover karting through to Formula One. I’m particularly proud to support him as a fellow Dutchman. Of course we already enjoy long-term relationships with Tim and Tom Coronel, two of The Netherlands finest racing drivers, but I’m particularly happy to be supporting the next generation of talent in Max Koebolt.
”Proud to be displaying TW Steel branding on his overalls and race helmet, Max was equally enthusiastic to praise his new partner; “This is an exciting time and to have TW Steel backing me is great,” said Max. “To be supported by them and join the likes of the Coronel brothers, David Coulthard, Dario Franchitti and Emerson Fittipaldi as an ambassador is pretty special. I look forward to representing The Netherlands and enjoying the opportunity to compete against some of the best karters in the world!
”Koebolt’s rise to prominence came almost as quickly as he started karting, becoming Dutch Champion in the Mini-Junior category in 2007. He won the title again in 2008 before receiving dispensation to compete in 2009 in the Junior Category, officially for karters aged between 13-15 years. Aged just 11, Max won all his races in this class to once again be crowned Dutch Champion. His success that year led to an invitation from Yamaha Europe to compete in the World Cup Yamaha Series in Suzuka, Japan.
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 and co-owner, Jordy Cobelens, ‘The Watch in Steel’, has emerged as an innovative, bold lifestyle brand – now available in over 50 countries worldwide. TW Steel is also the ‘Official Timing Partner’ to the Renault F1 Team.ENDS – www.twsteel.com
NASCAR Whelen All-American Series: Ron Sheridan eyes elusive title at Delaware Speedway
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (June 29, 2010) – Ron Sheridan knows what it’s like to almost win a track title. Now the 56-year-old veteran from Mt. Brydges, Ontario, has kicked off the 2010 season at Delaware Speedway looking very much like he may finally bring home that championship trophy.
Sheridan has won three of the first eight races in the Late Model division at the half-mile paved oval outside of London, Ontario. He is also 41st in the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series national championship standings, although his per-race average is sixth best.
Sheridan had a strong run last year, Delaware’s first as a NASCAR Whelen All-American Series sanctioned track, and finished ninth overall. But finishing just ahead of him in the national standings, as well as the Ontario province and Delaware track points, was Steve Robblee. While Sheriden went into the final race of the season with the points lead, Robblee was able to pass him on the final weekend.
“We just missed the setup a little bit and lost out there,” said Sheriden, who has raced for 18 years, including the last 12 in the Late Model division. “We just came up a little bit short. I bet you we’ve finished second five times. One year we missed it by four points. And then there was last year.
“This year, we just fine-tuned a little bit on the car. We’ve worked hard on it. We just came up with a package that is working and is comfortable for me. And we’ve been very fast the last couple weeks.”
Sheridan had a win and a fourth-place finish in twin features this past weekend.
Keith Rocco, of Wallingford, Conn., earned his series-leading 14th victory of the season this past Friday at Stafford (Conn.) Motor Speedway in the asphalt Modified division. He was also second at Thompson (Conn.) International Speedway on Thursday and eighth at Waterford (Conn.) Speedbowl on Saturday. Rocco has 21 top fives and 25 top 10s in 25 starts.
The win allowed him to drop a 34-point fourth-place finish from earlier in the season and increase his points total to 768 to maintain his NASCAR Whelen All-American Series national points lead.
A driver’s best 18 results are counted toward their state and national points totals, and the champions are decided on overall points total.
Craig Preble, of Yutan, Neb., remains second in points with 692. He was fourth in the dirt Late Model division at Junction Motor Speedway in McCool Junction, Neb., on Saturday and fourth at I-80 Speedway in Omaha, Neb., on Sunday. Preble has 12 wins and 19 top fives in 19 starts.
Justin Johnson was sixth and first in double asphalt Late Model features at Motor Mile Speedway in Radford, Va., to move up two spots to third. He has nine wins, 13 top fives and 16 top 10s in 16 starts.
Bill Leighton Jr. (584 points) and Matt Buller (557), who race against Preble at the two Nebraska tracks, are fourth and fifth, respectively, in the national standings.
Under the points structure for the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series, the race winner received two points for every car in the event up to 20. Second place received two fewer points, and so-on through the field. Race winners received an additional five bonus points. For example, if there are 20 cars, the winner received 45 points, second gets 38 and third 36. If there are 15 cars, the winner received 35 points, second gets 28 and third 26.
For Sheridan, it’s too early to think about points, but there is always time to think about racing.
He was loading up the go-kart for his son Jake, 7, Tuesday night. Sheridan and his wife, Georgia, also have a five-year-old son, Nicholas. Sheridan will run his Late Model at Delaware Speedway on Friday, and then he and the crew will head down to Autodrome St. Eustache in Quebec on Saturday to run in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Mobil 1 race.
Then it’s back home to get the Late Model ready for a special Summer Showdown non-points race on Wednesday, July 7. The event will also feature NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers Kyle Busch and David Reutimann, as well as NASCAR Nationwide Series veteran Jason Leffler.
“I’m really looking forward to that,” Sheridan said. “There’s no points on the line, so I’m looking forward to going at it and racing hard with those guys.”
And then it’s back to the championship chase. While Robblee has encountered some early-season misfortune, Sheridan knows the key to wrapping up that sought-after crown be avoiding similar bad luck.
“It’s so competitive up here, that it’s going to come down to having one less bad night, one less flat tire,” Sheridan said. “Part of our success this year is we just go down there and try to do the best we can, and it’s just worked out for us.”
Track, state and provincial champions and the top three finishers in the national standings earn invitations to the 2010 NASCAR Whelen All-American Series Awards Banquet. The winner of the national championship will also earn a secure spot in the NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown.
For more information, contact: Jason Christley, NASCAR Public Relations // Ron Sheridan picture by www.insidetracknews.com
Report Card Night Next Up at Scotia Speedworld!
HALIFAX, NS – June 29, 2010) Kids grab your parents and your report card and head to Scotia Speedworld this Friday night. The First 150 kids who present their report card at the grandstand gates will receive a coupon for a free meal at Boston Pizza! Please note these coupons will not be available at the pit gates. In addition to the free grub, fans will be treated to a full schedule of racing courtesy of the Weekly Racing Series. Five classes of hotrods will see action this Friday night at the 3/10 mile oval. Gates open at 5:00 pm; racing gets underway at 7:00 pm.
First up on the race card is the Hydraulics Plus Bandolero division. Emily Meehan (Rawdon) currently sits atop the Bandolero championship points standing, just two points in front of Cole Butcher (Porters Lake). The brand new Truck division will follow the Bandoleros on Friday night. Out of the seven Truck races this season, there have been four different winners in their first four races, which is making the Trucks a very exciting class to watch. Next up are the Legends; the top three in this class are separated by a mere 2 points! The Sportsman will be the next to see action at Scotia on Friday. Darren Wallage (Oakfield) and Steve Ross (Waverly) have been battling for the checkers week in and week out, with rookie Mike Alexander (Cole Harbour) not far behind. Finally the Tirecraft Lightning class will end the night’s event and this division is turning into a battle of former division champions. Will a former champ win this week? You’ll have to come to the show to find out!
Admission for the Weekly Racing Series is $12.00 for adults; $2.00 for youth aged 8-15; children 7 and under are admitted free. All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Pit admission is $15.00 and restricted to those 16 and older. Tickets are available at the gate on race day. Visit www.ScotiaSpeedworld.ca for more information or call our event hotline at 902.873.2277.
SSW RACEDAY FORMAT JULY 2nd
4:00pm Pit Gate opens
4:30pm Tech Inspection starts
5:00pm Grandstands open
5:15pm Practice starts (LG, TR, LI, SP)
6:20pm Practice Ends
6:25pm Drivers Meeting @ line up board (LG, LI, TR, SP)
6:25pm Bandolero Practice
6:40pm Bandolero Drivers Meeting in infield
7:00pm Opening Ceremonies/Parade Lap
Heats
Hydraulics Plus Bandolero (10 laps)
Trucks (10 laps)
Legends (10 laps)
Sportsman (10 laps)
Tirecraft Lightning (10 laps)
Features
Hydraulics Plus Bandolero (15 laps)
Trucks (20 laps)
Legends (25 laps)
Sportsman (30 laps)
Tirecraft Lightning (20 laps)
*subject to change without notice
About Scotia Speedworld: Scotia Speedworld (SSW) is a 3/10-mile asphalt oval racing facility. SSW is the only venue in Nova Scotia to host a weekly racing series, which runs May through September and features six different classes of racecars. SSW also hosts special events, including Monster Jam and the CARQUEST Pro Stock Tour. SSW is located at Exit 6 on Highway 102, across from the Halifax Stanfield International Airport. For more information please click on www.ScotiaSpeedworld.ca or call our Event Hotline at (902) 873-2277 or our office at (902) 481-2514.
From Tara Foster // 902.429.4069 // 902.488.0809 cell // media@scotiaspeedworld.ca
Hot Wheels backs Alex Tagliani in Canadian IndyCar races this summer
TORONTO, ON - Hot Wheels® and the FAZZT Race Team are excited to announce a partnership that is sure to race straight to the hearts of IndyCar fans across Canada. This July, at the Honda Indy Toronto and Honda Indy Edmonton, FAZZT Race Team driver and the only Canadian scheduled to race in all IndyCar races this year, Alex Tagliani, will be racing in a brand new Honda IndyCar, customized in Hot Wheels® style. The car will be unveiled for the first time at the Honda IndyFest on July 14th at Yonge and Dundas Square in Toronto.
"Hot Wheels® is about providing thrilling vehicle experiences to boys of all ages who are looking to fuel their passion for speed, power and performance," says Melissa Chau, Hot Wheels® Assistant Brand Manager for Mattel Canada. "We are so excited to see this vision brought to life through our partnership with the FAZZT Race Team and Canada's very own Alex Tagliani."
Tagliani's racecar, fire suit and his pit crew's uniforms will all be designed by the Hot Wheels creative team with an entirely new, custom design scheme that reflects Alex's fearless and competitive driving style on the racetrack. "This year, we are thrilled to expand our presence on the track with this one-of-a kind racecar look that only Hot Wheels can provide," says Chau.
"Some of my earliest and favourite memories of when I was a little boy are of racing with Hot Wheels cars," says Tagliani, who has been racing professionally for 14 years. "Decades later, it's a huge honour to have my very own life-size Hot Wheels racecar. I am looking forward to getting on the racetrack and crossing the finish line in my awesome Hot Wheels® ride, in front of my fellow Canadians."
The unveiling of the #77 Hot Wheels® car will take place on July 14 at the Honda IndyFest event at Yonge and Dundas Square in Toronto. The Honda Indy Toronto takes place July 16-18, 2010 and the Honda Indy Edmonton the following weekend, July 23-25.
Additionally, a 1:64 scale replica version of this limited edition car will be available for fans to purchase in 2011.
For more information on Hot Wheels® visit www.hotwheels.ca or for the FAZZT Race Team, visit www.fazztraceteam.com.
About Alex Tagliani: Alex Tagliani, nicknamed "Tag", is an avid karting buff who also enjoys swimming, cycling, bowling, and in-line skating. In addition, he is a big fan of DVDs, music and video games, especially those that test his abilities as a racecar driver. Alex is married to Australian model Bronte Tagliani, whom he met during a race weekend in Surfers Paradise, Australia. Tag caught the racing bug at the age of 10 when his paternal grandfather introduced him to karting during a trip to Italy. Alex splits him time between his residence in Las Vegas and his hometown of Lachenaie, Quebec. He is fluent in French, English and Italian.
Career Highlights
- Finished career-best seventh in 2004 and 2005 Champ Car championship standings
- Scored first Champ Car victory with win at Road America, 2004
- Scored at least two podium finishes per season in six of his eight Champ Car seasons
- Finished among top five in Toyota Atlantic Championship standings from 1997-99
About the Hot Wheels® brand: Hot Wheels® cars revolutionized boys' toys in 1968 with an original line of super-fast, customized cars built for speed, power, performance and attitude. Now, more than 40 years later, Hot Wheels® is a global lifestyle brand that represents the coolest cars imaginable in scales from miniature to full-size. Hot Wheels® cars are also popular collectibles for adults and each year, introduces a new line-up of innovative vehicles, track sets and play sets.
About FAZZT Race Team: The FAZZT Race Team was formed in July 2009 as a partnership between Andre Azzi of the Azzi Race Division, ATG, and other business partners. The team fields a full-time IndyCar Series team that made its debut at the season opening event in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The team has four Dallara chassis and has Canadian driver Alex Tagliani to drive the #77 entry. Andre Azzi, a Montreal based entrepreneur, is the teams' Chief Executive Officer and Rob Edwards is the Chief Operating Officer and team General Manager. The team is housed in a 25,000 ft. race shop on the north side of Indianapolis with a second facility that will house their Research and Design division in Montreal. For more information, go to www.FAZZTRaceTeam.com.
From Naz Araghian, GCI Group
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Jason Leffler joins Delaware Speedway Summer Showdown, July 7th.
LONDON, ON - A fractured wrist will keep NASCAR Sprint Cup driver Regan Smith out of Delaware Speedway's Summer Showdown on July 7th but fans will see a very worthy substitute joining Kyle Busch and David Reutimann on Delaware's legendary ½ mile track.
NASCAR Nationwide series driver Jason Leffler will join the Summer Showdown line-up. Leffler finished last season ranked 4th overall in the NASCAR Nationwide Series and this year has his sights set on nothing short of a championship.
"Jason Leffler is a strong contender", says Delaware General Manager Joe Czernai. "He'll be fun to watch alongside Busch and Reutimann and our top guys, like Sheridan and Robblee. A lot of bragging rights are at stake. It's going to be a great night!"
Leffler, Busch and Reutimann will take on Delaware's top-10 late model drivers and other registered competitors in the 50-lap race which is the highlight of the night's events.
The official Showdown format is available here: http://s331581743.onlinehome.us/wp-content/uploads/SUMMER-SHOWDOWN-Race-Format-v1.pdf
Some tickets remain for the Wednesday night event and can be purchased online at www.delawarespeedway.com.
From Joe Czernai, General Manager 519.851.5006 // Lisa Brandt, Publicity 226.448.7227
Give A&W NCATS racer Jason White a hand
Tourism Kamloops is running a contest called "Mark's Double Dog Dare" to determine which adventure TV Meteorologist Mark Madryga will do. One option is driving a NASCAR Canadian Tire Series car at Vernon, BC's Motoplex this summer.NASCAR Canadian Tire Series racer Jason White is pushing to have Mark drive the car, but he needs your help. Click here to go to the voting page and help get Mark into the RACECAR!
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