CME: Nice story on the show by Norris McDonald (Star / Wheels.ca)

Thanks to Norris McDonald for his nice piece on the Canadian Motorsports Expo. Norris writes for the Toronto Star and Wheels.ca!

 

The full story is here: http://www.wheels.ca/article/793276#

 

A link to all of Norris' pieces is here: http://www.wheels.ca/columns/columnists/2681

News from Mortimer Racing

Ottawa, ON: Mortimer Racing is pleased to announce that Aaron McCauley has signed with Mortimer Racing to race in the Formula Tour F1600 Master Class in 2011. Aaron started racing go-karts at an early age winning various races and divisions. Last season Aaron McCauley spent it with VMS (Vallis Motor Sports) where he raced a FV1200 and learned the ropes at various tracks in Ontario. 2011 Aaron will race the Formula Tour Master schedule which includes tracks of, Le Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Trois Rvieres and Mount Tremblant. For sponsorship opportunities and support contact Aaron McCauley aaronmccauley@gmail.com.

Mortimer Racing http://www.mortimer-racing.com/index.htmlMortimer Racing has been involved with Canadian auto sport since 1970 and is currently the largest Formula race team in Canada. Located in Ottawa Ontario we currently prepare and build Formula Ford racing cars. Mortimer Racing offers Formula Ford (F1600) and Formula Mazda arrive & drive rentals and customer owned race car services. Contact MR at nigel@mortimer-racing.com

'Junior Hanley & Friends' to discuss Don Biederman and 'old-time' racing at the CME

 

JUNIOR HANLEY AND FRIENDS TALK ABOUT DON BIEDERMAN AND OLD-TIME CANADIAN SHORT TRACK RACING AT THE CME

The Racing Season Begins January 21-23, 2011 at Toronto’s International Centre

(TORONTO, ON // January 14, 2011) On Friday, January 21, visitors to the Canadian Motorsports Expo will have an opportunity to join a host of Ontario stock car veterans, including legendary Hall of Famer Junior Hanley and crew members Bob Sumak, Ross May and Peter Andaloro for a ‘Bench Racing’ discussion recalling the exploits, adventures and achievements of legendary Canadian racer Don Biederman.

Biederman, who passed away in 1999, is also a member of the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame (inducted in 2001). As a racer and personality, Biederman was true character, often described as cantankerous, opinionated and outspoken. But in addition to those things, he was a very determined, talented and successful racer.

Hanley and the others will be on hand to chat about Biederman, and their time racing with – and against – each other. Adding to the Biederman tribute will be the presence of the recently discovered ’72 Nova, which Biederman took to victory lane in the 1977 Oxford 250, racing against several NASCAR stars.

Discussing his longtime friend, rival and fellow Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame member, Hanley said, “Don was a pretty good racer, and he came to the track to win. He was a different person at the track; no one was going to get in his way.”

A regular competitor on the Ontario short track circuit, Biederman eventually expanded his schedule to include 42 NASCAR Grand National events; a pair of top 10 finishes being his best results. The racer’s most memorable accomplishment came in 1977 when he took his #43 Nova to victory lane, in Oxford, Maine. It was there he won the prestigious NASCAR-sanctioned Oxford 250, besting NASCAR stars like Bob Pressley, Harry Gant and Morgan Shepherd. The upset win still ranks high on the list of Canadian racing accomplishments. That season, Biederman also won the Maple Leaf 250 and the Northern 200.

Unfortunately, the Canadian racing fraternity lost Don Biederman much too early when he passed away at his home, in Brantford (ON) on May 31, 1999 at the age of 59. Continued Hanley, “Don was out of the car by then, but he was still helping a lot of guys with their equipment. Don was one of those personalities that everyone missed once he was gone.”

The Hanley / Biederman Forum takes place Friday, January 21 at 6 p.m. on the main stage at the Canadian Motorsports Expo. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to get a rare, personal insight into one some of the most exciting and successful characters in Canadian motorsports history.

As for Biederman’s legendary ’77 Oxford 250-winning Nova, it is being supplied to the show in its pre-restored condition by owner John Hutchins, and thanks to the efforts of Canadian racing photographer Dave Franks. Last year, the car was discovered in storage on the property of Hutchins’ business, Heart Lake Used Auto Parts, in Brampton, ON.

“John Hutchins owned the car and had it tucked away years ago,” explained Franks. “We went looking for a Nova in order to build a Biederman replica, but we lucked out and found the original. The restoration is a work in progress, but we will have the unfinished body hung on the frame in time for the CME show.”

Dave Franks (DaveFranksPhotos.com) will also be at the show to participate in the forum. He will also have a booth, selling and displaying thousands of historical photos from his collection, including many of Hanley (signed), Biederman, Dale Earnhardt, NASCAR, ACT, CASCAR, and tons more from the Ontario short track racing scene over the past several decades.

For more information about the 5th Annual Canadian Motorsports Expo, including celebrity racer Q&As, forums, seminars, autograph sessions and awards presentations, visit www.CanadianMotorsportsExpo.com.

PHOTO: (l to r) Don Biederman and Junior Hanley chat beside Biederman’s #43 car prior to a race at Toronto’s Pinecrest Speedway in 1974. On Friday, January 21 at the Canadian Motorsports Expo, Hanley and several of Don’s former crew members will talk about the late Don Biederman and their racing achievements and exploits. (Photo courtesy of DaveFranksPhotos.com)

ABOUT THE CME: The Canadian Motorsports Expo is a three-day celebration of Canadian racing that runs January 21, 22 and 23, 2011 at the International Centre (6900 Airport Road in Mississauga). The show is powered by Inside Track Motorsport News. In addition to booths and racing vehicles representing the entire spectrum of Canadian motorsports, the show is loaded with seminars and forums to entertain and inform racers and fans alike. Star drivers – including reigning IndyCar Series Champion and Indy 500 winner Dario Franchitti, and rising NASCAR Sprint Cup star Brad Keselowski – will be at the CME to sign autographs and meet the fans. One of the special themes of this year’s CME is the Karting Reunion. Please check the show’s website for updates and changes.

For more information about the Canadian Motorsports Expo, visit www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com. You can reach co-promoters Inside Track at (416) 962-7223 or email info@canadianmotorsportsexpo.com.

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Rising Stock Car Star Steve Arpin to Appear at the Cdn. Motorsports Expo

 

RISING CANADIAN STOCK CAR STAR STEVE ARPIN TO APPEAR AT THE CANADIAN MOTORPSORTS EXPO
The Racing Season Begins January 21-23, 2011 at Toronto’s International Centre

(TORONTO, ON // January 14, 2011) Steve Arpin, a top Canadian prospect in pursuit of a full-time ride in one of NASCAR’s premiere racing divisions, will be on hand to participate in the Canadian Young Guns Fan Q&A Forum on Saturday morning, January 22 (10:45 to 11:30 a.m.) at the Canadian Motorsports Expo.

The 27 year-old Arpin, who lists Fort Frances, Ontario as his hometown, will come to Toronto directly from an ARCA Series test at Daytona to discuss his career, as well as his plans and hopes for the upcoming 2011 stock car racing season. Arpin will also be participating in the Inside Track Readers’ Choice Awards presentations on Saturday evening at the CME (starts at 6:45 p.m.).

No stranger to the Winner’s Circle, Arpin started his competitive career with seven snowmobile World Championships before switching his focus to four-wheeled, dirt track competition. Innumerable race wins and championships followed as Arpin campaigned his #00 Dirt Modified throughout Ontario and the mid-western United States. A three-season stretch of consecutive race wins at his home track, Emo Speedway, resulted in a competitive ‘bounty’ being placed on his head, but the challenge went unclaimed as Arpin’s success continued.

Eventually heading to the heart of NASCAR country, Arpin settled in North Carolina and was befriended by Sprint Cup star Carl Edwards. Offered a ride in Edwards’ Silver Crown car, Arpin went on to earn the USAC Rookie of the Year award in 2008.

He then moved to the ARCA series, first with Eddie Sharp Racing and then with (Billy) Venturini Motorsports (in 2009). That effort resulted in a seventh-place, year-end points effort and his first of two ARCA Most Popular Driver awards. Returning to the ARCA Series last year with a limited schedule, Arpin piloted his #55 Mike’s Hard Lemonade Toyota to three race victories (DuQuoin, Texas and Salem) and 10 top 10 finishes.

That success opened the door to seven NASCAR Nationwide Series starts for Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s JR Motorsports (driving both the #7 and #88 Chevrolets), where Arpin scored a top-10 finish in the Subway Jalapeno 250 event. Last season, Arpin was backed by Canadian-based Mike’s Hard Lemonade.

Said Arpin of his drives for JR Motorsports, “Nationwide was definitely an eye-opener, I learned so much in those seven races, watching and following Carl (Edwards), Kyle (Busch) and Brad (Keselowski), I learned something every lap. And that experience paid dividends when I returned to the ARCA series.”

Usually reluctant to get out of a racecar, Arpin is nevertheless excited about his first-ever visit to Toronto. “We have an incredible fan base in Canada, and their support is what makes the effort worthwhile. It will be so cool to be able to meet some of them, shake their hands, sign some autographs and thank them for their interest.”

ABOUT THE CME: The Canadian Motorsports Expo is a three-day celebration of Canadian racing that runs January 21, 22 and 23, 2011 at the International Centre (6900 Airport Road in Mississauga). The show is powered by Inside Track Motorsport News. In addition to booths and racing vehicles representing the entire spectrum of Canadian motorsports, the show is loaded with seminars and forums to entertain and inform racers and fans alike. Star drivers, including reigning IndyCar Series Champion and Indy 500 winner Dario Franchitti, rising NASCAR Sprint Cup star Brad Keselowski, Canadian racing champions Ron Fellows, Junior Hanley, DJ Kennington and many others, will be at the CME to sign autographs and meet the fans. Please check the show’s website regularly for updates and changes.

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

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RISING STARS HENDERSON, STOUT GET TASTE OF DAYTONA

(Daytona Beach, FL) -- For the next generation of talent fighting their way up the motorsports ladder, any opportunity for advancement can be crucial. Last weekend, Continental Tires created new opportunity for a pair of up-and-coming talents by giving them a taste of Daytona.

NASCAR Whelen All-American Series Rookie of the Year Sloan Henderson and World Challenge Touring Class Champion Robert Stout got the chance to take to Daytona International's famed high banks at the GRAND-AM "Roar Before the Rolex 24" Test with Compass360 Racing, an intensive weekend during which the teams and drivers prepare for the first race of the 2011 season, the Rolex 24 At Daytona, which takes place on January 29-30th at Daytona International Speedway.

A top competitor in NASCAR's Whelen Late Model series in Ohio, Henderson is on a racing fast-track and has her sights set on the top-level of motorsports competition in America. The up and coming racer added a new line on her racing resume this weekend thanks to help from Continental Tire as the brand continues to expand on its partnership with GRAND-AM.

"We're exited to give Sloan and Robert the chance to see what Grand-Am racing is all about," said Travis Roffler, Marketing Director, Continental Tire the Americas. "The GRAND-AM series (which include the Rolex Sports Car Series and the Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge) are an important part of the NASCAR family. We're hoping more up-and-coming racing stars like Sloan and Robert will become interested in sports car racing, and become a part of our paddock.

"On Friday, the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series driver took to the track to test in a very different kind of car than the Legends and stock cars she's piloted over the past five years as she jumped behind the wheel of a bright orange Honda Civic Si fielded by 2010 Continental Tire Sports Car Champions, Compass360 Racing.

Henderson began her racing career at age 12, after a riding accident on her horse broke her jaw. Her father wanted to have her compete in a safer environment, and they began in Quarter Midgets in 2004. She moved into Bandoleros and Legends, finishing third in National Points in the Bando in 2006, and placing sixth nationally in Legends in 2008.

2009 marked a break-out season for Sloan, where she was the only female to set fast time, win a heat race, get four podium finishes, six top five and eighteen top ten finishes, a feat which netted her Whelen Rookie of the Year for Ohio. She built on that success in Late Models throughout 2010, taking her sixth win at the Kil-Kare-Robbie Dean Memorial 94 Lap race.

"I've spent my racing career on ovals, and I'm really excited about the opportunity to drive the road course at Daytona this weekend," said Sloan. "This is a big step for me as a driver, and I'm so thankful for the chance that NASCAR and Continental Tire have given me to drive in GRAND-AM. My goal is to learn as much as I can from the team and team-mates, and to simply get better every session!"

"NASCAR's had its eye on Sloan for the past few years," explained C360R Team Principal Karl Thomson. "She's got amazing raw talent, having progressed to Whelen in a few short years. She's also got tremendous marketability, and has the potential for a bright future in motorsports. This test is chance for her to drive a very different kind of car at a very different venue.

"Indeed, while Stout ran an all-road course season on his way to the championship, this test marks the first time Henderson will be turning right, as well as left.

Compass360 Racing, which runs a four-car team in Continental, has won the Street Tuner championship two years in a row (2009 and 2010) with their iconic orange Civics. They've won the Manufacturer title for Honda three out of the past four seasons, and are one of the most established Street Tuner teams, having started full-time in the Grand-Am paddock in 2004.

After Henderson took to the track on Friday, it was then Stout's shot on Sunday as he strapped in and hit the high banks for his very first laps on the famed oval-based road circuit.

"This was my first time on this track, and in this car, and on driving on slicks, but I felt comfortable really quickly," said Stout. "What a fun track! It was a little bit scary the first time with the huge banking, but with all the fast corners and wide track you can see why the racing is so good here. Thanks to Continental Tire and Compass360 for this opportunity, I had a great time and would love to get back here and race!

"While both drivers took on a huge list of "firsts" during the outing, Henderson and Stout both showed their championship mindset with methodical improvement.

"Both driver's did an excellent job this weekend," said Thomson. "They made consistent progress every time around and I was very impressed with how they did for their first time on this track. Hopefully this will help their career development and we'd love to see them racing back here in the Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge in the future."

Compass360 Racing (C360R) is the motorsports division of Compass360 Branding Communications, a firm offering marketing expertise to clients in diverse industries across North America. The team, with support from Honda Performance Development (HPD), fields four front-running Honda Civic Si's in Grand-Am's Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge, winning series Championships in 2010, 2009 and 2007. The team also won the 2010 Canadian Touring Car Championship, with support from Durabond. For details visit http://C360R.com.

Canadian Motorsports Expo, January 21 -23. While at the show check out the giant Dickies/Kodiak Blowout sale, booth #1131. All items up to 70% off reg

NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown Has Wide Appeal

 
Daytona Beach — Just as Mario Andretti, Earl Ross and David Hobbs were drawn to the Daytona 500 in years past, several international drivers are targeting the 2011 NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown, a race that has come to be known as the 'Daytona 500 of short-track racing,' on Jan. 28-29 at Toyota Speedway at Irwindale (Calif.) as an opportunity to make their mark on the world of NASCAR.
 
Among the entrants expected are 2010 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Mobil 1 champion DJ Kennington and 2010 NASCAR Mexico Series champion Germán Quiroga. Kennington will be joined in the field by fellow Canadian Andrew Ranger, the 2007 and 2009 Canadian Tire Series champion, while Quiroga will be joined by compatriots Rubén Rovelo and Daniel Suárez. Outside the NASCAR umbrella heading to California is 2010 RACECAR Euro Series champion Lucas Lasserre of France.
 
"The event is so prestigious that if you get an opportunity to race in it, you have to take it," said Kennington. "The level and depth of the competition is amazing. Every driver there has had his share of wins."
 
As NASCAR touring series champions Kennington and Quiroga have a secured starting spot for the main event. They also will be teammates, of sorts, by driving for Bill McAnally Racing for this special event. BMR is one of the top stables in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West and is home to 2010 champion Eric Holmes.
 
Ranger, a Quebec native, also enters the event with a secure starting spot as a 2010 K&N Pro Series event winner having won at California's Infineon Raceway in the West and Connecticut's Lime Rock Park in the East after splitting his season between the U.S. and Canada. He competed in the 2007 and 2010 NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdowns after each of his two Canadian Tire Series titles.
 
Mexican drivers Rovelo and Suárez come into the event with successful 2010 seasons, as well. Rovelo finished sixth in points and won the Aug. 22 race at Autódromo de Monterrey. Suárez, meanwhile, collected rookie of the year honors and finished 13th in the point standings.
 
France's Lasserre comes to the event with a championship in hand, but he will have to earn his spot on the starting grid for the main event. The French series competes exclusively on road courses in a car based on a NASCAR stock car. In 2010, Lasserre won three times and notched 10 top fives and 11 top 10s.
 
"The (NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown) is a great place to get noticed and open some doors if you have some success," said Kennington. "Just look at the list of past winners."
 
David Gilliland won the 2005 NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown before embarking on his NASCAR Sprint Cup Series career in 2007. Two-time and defending race winner Joey Logano won his first NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown in 2007 that preceded his move to the NASCAR Nationwide Series and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series with Joe Gibbs Racing.
 
Of the 119 drivers to have started a NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown, 68 have made a start in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, NASCAR Nationwide Series or NASCAR Camping World Truck Series.
 
The NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown main event is broken up into three sections – two 100-lap segments preceding a 25-lap dash to the finish. The race features secured starting spots for the 2010 champions of NASCAR's developmental series and race winners of the NASCAR K&N Pro Series from the 2010 season.
 
The schedule also includes a 75-lap NASCAR Whelen All-American Series Super Late Model race and a 50-lap NASCAR Whelen All-American Series Late Model race.
 
Both nights of racing will air live on SPEED, beginning each night at 10 p.m. ET. The coverage will be anchored by Rick Allen and Phil Parsons in the booth, with Dick Berggren and Jim Tretow covering action in the pits.
 
From: Shon Sbarra- Integrated Marketing Communications
 

RTR - Tonight Tues. Jan. 11th 2011 - RACE TIME RADIO Presented By Shell ROTELLA....

RACE TIME RADIO Presented by: Shell ROTELLA

Broadcast Tuesday Nights On theScore... SIRIUS 98... Home of the
Hardcore Race Fan

Visit www.racetimeradio.com for links and information. To Listen to Race
Time Radio on Tuesday nights at 8pm ET. on theScore visit
http://radio.thescore.com. To Listen live, go to
http://radio.thescore.com/live at 8 p.m.

Agreement Reached, Edmonton Indy Back on 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series Calendar

Indianapolis & Montréal, January 11, 2011 - Octane Motorsport Events Inc., a subsidiary of Octane Racing Group Inc. is proud to announce that it has successfully completed all necessary negotiations with the City of Edmonton, reached satisfactory agreements and will act as promoter of 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series 10th round, July 22, 23 & 24 at Edmonton City Centre Airport.

Octane Motorsport Events Inc. has also agreed on terms of a 3-year (2011-2013) sanction agreement with Indy Racing League to act as promoter and organizer of an IZOD IndyCar Series race at Edmonton City Centre Airport new racecourse, designed on and around the Eastern runway.

"We are extremely glad to finally be able to officially invite racing fans to gather in Edmonton, next July 22, 23 & 24. It is now a reality; the popular Edmonton Indy is back on the IndyCar Series calendar. While it may has taken more time than expected to confirm its return, our group has all intentions to use the next seven months to offer to Edmontonians and Western Canadians the very best motorsports spectacle they've seen since 2005 in Alberta's Capital City", said today François Dumontier, President of Octane Motorsport Events Inc.

Octane Motorsport Events Inc. intends to open its Edmonton office early in 2011 and provide to fans as soon as possible in the coming weeks, all necessary details concerning tickets sales.

"While I am transmitting our group's best wishes for the New Year to all Western Canada racing fans, I wish to take the opportunity to also thank everyone in Edmonton - Mr. Mayor, City Council members, City personnel and Business community representatives - who contributed to today's extremely positive announcement", said François Dumontier. "I also wish to thank Randy Bernard, Terry Angstadt and their whole team at the Indy Racing League for their patience and constant support over the last few months", added Octane's President.

A Canadian company established in Montréal, 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). Under a mandate from Stock-Car Montréal, a wholly owned subsidiary of International Speedway Corporation (ISC), Octane Management is also the delegated promoter of the NAPA Auto Parts 200, Presented by Dodge, a round of the NASCAR Nationwide Series. Both events are respectively scheduled for presentation June 10-12 and August 19-20, 2011, at Montréal's Gilles Villeneuve Circuit.

BREAKING: Norris McDonald is reporting that the Edmonton Indy is back on

No clue what this means for the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series (if it will go to 13 events again)... but Norris McDonald is reporting that the Edmonton Indy is "officially" back on.

From Norris: "As predicted, the Honda Indy Edmonton car race has been saved.

Randy Bernard, CEO of IndyCar (formerly the Indy Racing League), is expected to officially announce today in Indianapolis that the race is back on the IZOD IndyCar Series schedule and will be held July 24, two weeks after the Honda Indy Toronto.

It’s believed that the contract between the city of Edmonton and promoters Octane Racing of Montreal was signed late last year but not made public until now because the racing league wanted to be absolutely sure that all the Ts were crossed and Is dotted before officially confirming that the event is back on the schedule.

The contract between Edmonton and Octane, promoters of the Formula One Grand Prix du Canada, is for three years and will run through 2013.

The race had been cancelled last November following a breakdown in negotiations between Octane and the city over $3 million in paving costs that arose because of changes to the circuit at the City Centre Airport.

There was a hue and cry in Edmonton when the race was called off and city council was forced to have a quick change of heart.

Bernard will make the announcement today as part of his “State of IndyCar” address to the media at an Indianapolis hotel...."

Cdn. Motorsports Expo: PitFit's Jim Leo to present racer fitness seminar at the CME

 

 

 

(TORONTO, ON // January 11, 2011) PitFit Training Inc. President Jim Leo will present “Racing Fitness,” in which he will explain why physical fitness and proper nutritional habits can enhance the performance and safety of a racing driver. Leo’s presentation takes place Saturday, January 22 (starting at 3 p.m.) in the Seminar Room at the Canadian Motorsports Expo.

 

Leo’s presentation is a fantastic opportunity for racers to gain an edge on their competition by maximizing their potential for successfully dealing with the physical challenges of racing.

What to expect: Hands-on demonstrations of specific exercises and specialized equipment used for training drivers; Information on strength, stamina, reaction, flexibility training and sports nutrition for drivers; A detailed booklet explaining the information presented, along with a training plan drivers can follow; Discounts on training equipment and online training programs for all participants.

 

As one of auto racing’s most respected and renowned fitness trainers, Jim Leo’s PitFit Training organization has grown into a worldwide operation. His client list includes an array of motorsports’ best such as Dario Franchitti, Scott Dixon, Kasey Kahne and Paul Tracy, and rising stars such as J.R. Hildebrand, Wade Cunningham and Toronto’s Indy Lights driver, James Hinchcliffe.

 

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

 

“It was an honour to speak at the Canadian Motorsports Expo in January of 2010, and based on the success we had, I was pleased to be invited back for the 2011 show,” said Jim Leo. “On top of being part of this great event, I’m especially excited because PitFit client, Dario Franchitti, will also be appearing. The goal of PitFit is to be a part of the growth for the Expo for many years to come.”

 

“We are extremely thrilled that Jim has accepted our invitation to present at the CME again this year,” said CME President Glenn Butt. “PitFit Training provides top level training to a host of elite racers, including this year’ feature IndyCar Series champion Dario Franchitti. Attendees at Jim’s seminar will be in for a rare treat.”

 

PHOTO: PitFit's Jim Leo demonstrates one of his training techniques to Canadian racer Caitlin Johnston during last year's Canadian Motorsports Expo.

 

ABOUT THE CME: The Canadian Motorsports Expo is a three-day celebration of Canadian racing that runs January 21, 22 and 23, 2011 at the International Centre (6900 Airport Road in Mississauga). The show is powered by Inside Track Motorsport News. In addition to booths and racing vehicles representing the entire spectrum of Canadian motorsports, the show is loaded with seminars and forums to entertain and inform racers and fans alike. Star drivers – including reigning IndyCar Series Champion and Indy 500 winner Dario Franchitti, and rising NASCAR Sprint Cup star Brad Keselowski – will be at the CME to sign autographs and meet the fans. Please check the show’s website regularly for updates and changes.

 

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

 

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KRC REVOLUTION POWER STEERING PUMP

Kennesaw, Ga. -- January 11, 2011 -- KRC is changing the way you think about power steering pumps. The all new Revolution power steering pump was developed from the ground up as a purpose built racing component. It is not a re-labeled OEM unit. It was designed in a year-long collaborative effort between KRC and Tony Woodward, using cutting-edge computer-aided design and manufacturing technology. KRC's Revolution power steering pump will be available in pulley driven, bellhousing mounted and direct drive applications. Its features have never before been found all in one pump:

- The KRC calibrated, tunable flow curve.

- The KRC spline-drive bolt-on pulleys.

- Standard and High Volume (Coming Summer 2011) pumps with flow capacity up to 4.2 gallons per minute.

- 9,000rpm maximum pump speed.

- 1600psi maximum pressure relief.

- Ball and roller bearings for high loads.

- Machined rigid mounting surfaces both front and rear.

- Double 80MM bolt pattern allows selective orientation of the pump to eliminate vapor lock in hoses.

- Available with left or right side outlet fitting.

- Hardcoated and micro-honed piston bore for precise flow control and instantaneous pressure relief.

- Large unrestricted intake flow path to prevent fluid cavitation.

- All internal openings are CNC ported for lowest possible turbulence.

- 8620 steel shaft, heat tread to 62 Rockwell for exception strength and wear characteristics.

- Self-centering snout for proper alignment to dry-sump spud in positive drive applications, minimizing shaft wear.

For additional information, contact KRC’s tech department at (770) 422-5135 or at techhelp@krcpower.com.

KRC Power Steering is the industry leader in manufacturing and designing of high performance power steering pumps and complete serpentine pulley systems. In business since 1997, KRC has become the standard in power steering pumps for oval track, road racing, street, off-road and marine applications. With an in house CNC machine shop, KRC is able to manufacture innovative products to the strictest of tolerances. For more information on the many products KRC offers, contact a KRC dealer near you, or call KRC’s tech line at (770) 422-5135 or visit www.krcpower.com.

All-new 2011 Chrysler 300 Series Sedans are Exquisitely Crafted and Designed for Passionate Drivers Who Value Substance and Individuality

· All-new Chrysler 300 sedans provide customers with elegant style, grand-touring performance, exceptional fuel economy and the precision, refinement, premium materials and quality of the world’s best luxury sedans

· All-new 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine delivers best-in-class 292 horsepower and an 11 percent improvement in fuel economy, while the legendary 5.7-litre HEMI® V8 with FuelSaver MDS Technology delivers 363 horsepower, 35 MPG and 0-100 km/h in less than six seconds

· All-new 300 features more than $3,600 in added equipment with no change in price, while the 300C offers more than $9,000 in added value

· State-of-the-art connectivity, infotainment and more than 70 safety and security features keep passengers of the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 connected, comfortable and secure

With its award-winning iconic rear-wheel-drive proportions, elegantly sculptured body-side, world-class craftsmanship and refinement, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 series proudly delivers distinction, technological innovation and premium sedan features at a legendary value, while setting a new course for the brand.

“The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedans pack a powerful combination of cutting-edge style and innovation”, said Ed Broadbear, Vice-President Marketing, Chrysler Canada. “Designed to give consumers both luxury and value, the all-new Chrysler flagship combines world-class quality and technology with premium materials to bring sophistication to the streets, highways and boulevards of Canada.”

The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedans embody the essence of the new Chrysler brand: delivering passion for design, people and the environment through expressive design, state-of-the-art connectivity and world-class levels of quality and efficiency.

Exceptional level of standard equipment on all chrysler 300 models
All-new 2011 Chrysler 300 series sedans are available in Canada in four well equipped models: Chrysler 300 Touring, 300 Limited, 300C and 300C AWD. In addition, the Luxury and SafetyTec Groups provide customers with high-value content and innovative technology directly targeted for their needs.

All-new 2011 chrysler 300 TOURING
With more standard equipment than its competitors, the 2011 Chrysler 300 Touring is well-equipped for the individual who is looking for distinctive design, exceptional roominess, best-in-class horsepower and up to 39 MPG (7.3L/100km) with world-class ride and handling at an extraordinary value. This vehicle features the all-new 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine with 292 horsepower 260 lb-ft of torque, E-85 flex-fuel capability and a five-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick. Other standard equipment includes front-row active head restraints, advanced multi-stage front air bags, full-length side-curtain air bags, seat-mounted side-thorax air bags, driver’s knee blocker air bag, rear head restraints in all positions, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control System, Hill-start Assist, Rain Brake Support, Ready Alert Braking, and Tire-Pressure Monitoring.

The all-new interior features soft-touch surfaces and premium materials throughout. Immediately catching the eye are the 8.4-inch UConnect® Touch Media Centre, LED-illuminated instrument cluster with driver-selectable Electronic Vehicle Information Centre, signature Chrysler analogue clock, premium leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob with Satin Chrome Accents, LED-illuminated Satin Chrome door handles, Black Comodo Elm interior trim, premium cloth trim with accent stitching, LED-illuminated front cupholders, centre stack and reading lamps, and premium soft-touch wrapped armrests and door panels.

Connectivity remains at the forefront with the standard UConnect® Touch 8.4-inch touch screen, USB port with iPod® Control, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, SD-card reader, auxiliary audio input jack, steering wheel mounted audio controls and six speaker audio system.

Other impressive standard features lending to the premium experience of Chrysler’s flagship include: Keyless Enter-N-Go with proximity sensor and remote windows down, no-touch self-rising decklid with decklid liner, dual-zone automatic climate control with humidity sensor, front and rear climate control outlets, cabin air filtration, laminated acoustic windshield and front-door glass, 12-way power driver’s seat including 4-way power lumbar, 60-40 split-folding rear seat with armrest and two cupholders, speed control, power windows with express up/down, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, tilt-telescoping steering column, luxury floor mats, rear passenger reading lamps, illuminated vanity mirrors, automatic headlamps, power release for the cap-less fuel filler door and much more.

On the exterior, the Chrysler 300 Touring strikes an enchanting pose with its signature liquid-chrome grille, bi-halogen projector headlamps with chromed bezels, LED-illuminated “C” shaped daytime-running lamps, LED-illuminated taillamps with LED-illuminated “light pipe” design, chrome window trim, dual chrome exhaust, body colour mirrors and door handles, and 17-inch aluminum wheels.

The MSRP for the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 Touring is $32,995, representing over $3,600 of added value versus the 2010 model.

All-new 2011 chrysler 300 limited
For customers who want even more luxury and convenience features with the impressive power and efficiency of the Pentastar V6, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 Limited adds to the features of the 300 Touring with luxury leather faced seats, heated front seats, power passenger seat with 4-way power lumbar, 18-inch chrome clad wheels, chrome exterior mirrors and door handles, fog lamps, Uconnect Voice Command with handsfree Bluetooth® phone capability, ParkView® rear backup camera, remote start, Alpine® premium audio system with six speakers and 276-watt 8-channel amplifier, vehicle security alarm, and LED-illuminated rear cup holders.

The MSRP for the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 Limited is $34,995, representing over $5,000 of added value versus the 2010 model.

Available options include a panoramic sunroof, 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, Garmin Navigation, Sound Group, SafetyTec Group and Luxury Group.

· Luxury Group — For customers who want the premium comfort and convenience features of the Chrysler 300C with the power and efficiency of the Pentastar V6, this Luxury Group package adds premium Nappa leather faced seats with perforated inserts and driver memory, 12-way power heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, genuine Black or Dark Olive Ash Burl interior trim, power tilt and telescoping heated leather-wrapped steering wheel with Black or Dark Olive Ash Burl trim, power adjustable pedals with memory, driver’s side auto-dimming mirrors with memory and auto-tilt in Reverse, power rear window sunshade, Satin Chrome lower door sills with “Chrysler” logo, LED illuminated front-footwells and front and rear map pockets, and heated/cooled cup holders.

The Luxury Group is available on the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 Limited for only $2,500 MSRP.

All-new 2011 chrysler 300C Continuing its rich automotive heritage and the brand’s proud “letter series,” the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300C is designed for the customer who wants grand-touring performance combined with innovative technologies and premium comfort and convenience features.

In addition to the premium features found on the Chrysler 300 Limited model, this world-class flagship sedan adds the legendary 5.7-litre 363 horsepower HEMI V8 engine with FuelSaver MDS Technology delivering 35 MPG highway (8.0L/100km), and touring-tuned suspension with larger performance disc brakes.

Additional standard equipment includes premium Nappa leather faced seats with perforated inserts and driver memory, 12-way power heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, genuine Black or Dark Olive Ash Burl interior trim, power tilt and telescoping heated leather-wrapped steering wheel with Black or Dark Olive Ash Burl trim, Smartbeam headlamps, Homelink universal transceiver, rain sensitive windshield wipers, power adjustable pedals with memory, power-folding chrome exterior mirrors with memory, auto-dimming and auto-tilt in reverse, power rear window sunshade, Satin Chrome lower door sills with “Chrysler” logo, LED illuminated front-footwells and front and rear map pockets, and heated/cooled cup holders.
The MSRP for the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300C is $39,995, representing over $9,000 of added value versus the 2010 model.

Available options include a panoramic sunroof, 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, Garmin Navigation, Sound Group and SafetyTec Group.

All-new 2011 chrysler 300C AWDCombining the most advanced all-wheel-drive (AWD) system with head-turning elegance and a 363 horsepower HEMI® V8 engine with FuelSaver MDS Technology, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300C AWD is a year-round grand-touring performance machine. In addition to the standard equipment on the Chrysler 300C, the Chrysler 300C AWD model includes a segment-exclusive active transfer case and front-axle disconnect system to improve fuel economy by up to 5 per cent compared with AWD systems without it. No other major automotive manufacturer offers the combination of these two independent technologies. When AWD is not required, the system automatically disconnects the front axle to maximize fuel economy, while still providing the outstanding performance and handling inherent in rear-wheel-drive vehicles.

Taking its new second-generation architecture further, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300C AWD features a touring-tuned AWD suspension and touring-tuned AWD brake package for world-class refinement and handling. For a more tailored appearance, the all-new Chrysler 300C AWD features a 13 mm (0.5-inch) tighter tire-to-fender fitment, a 4 mm (0.15-inch) lowered overall ride height, and larger 19-inch polished twin-spoke aluminum wheels.

The MSRP for the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300C AWD is $41,995, representing over $10,000 of added value versus the 2010 model.

Available options include a panoramic sunroof, Garmin Navigation, Sound Group and SafetyTec Group.

SAFETYTEC GROUP: advanced active-safety features For a 360 degree perspectiveFor customers that want the latest in accident-avoidance features, Chrysler brand’s new SafetyTec Group combines advanced active- and passive-safety technologies for enhanced driver confidence.

The SafetyTec Group is available on the 2011 Chrysler 300 Limited, 300C and 300C AWD models and includes adaptive-forward lighting, high-intensity discharge projector high and low-beams with automatic headlamp leveling, Forward Collision Warning with adaptive-cruise control, Blind-spot monitoring with Rear Cross Path detection, ParkSense® front- and rear-park assist system, LED-illuminated rear fog lamps, exterior mirrors with supplemental turn signals and approach lamp (300 Limited adds HomeLink universal transceiver, rain-sensing wipers and SmartBeam® headlamps)

The SafetyTec Group is available on the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 Limited for only $2,500 MSRP and on the 300C and 300C AWD for only $2,000 MSRP.

Newest and most distinct sedan in the segmentRedesigned from the ground up, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 series sedans are the freshest entry in the standard full-size vehicle segment. The all-new Chrysler 300 sedans will reignite the segment delivering elegant style, grand-touring performance, exceptional fuel economy and the precision and quality of the world’s best luxury sedans at an attainable value.

NASCAR: Canadian Andrew Ranger Headed To Irwindale

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 10, 2011) — A winner on both coasts in NASCAR K&N Pro Series action in 2010, Andrew Ranger is set to compete in the NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown on Jan. 28-29 at Toyota Speedway at Irwindale (Calif.).

Ranger has a guaranteed starting position in the annual postseason event as a 2010 K&N Pro Series race winner. A competitor primarily in the K&N Pro Series East, Ranger drove the No. 35 Waste Management Recycling Chevrolet to a win at Lime Rock Park and recorded three additional top-10 finishes in seven total starts. He also earned the Coors Light Pole Award at the Lime Rock road course.

Additionally, Ranger made a pair of K&N Pro Series West appearances this past season, highlighted by another road course win at Infineon Raceway.

A two-time NASCAR Canadian Tire Series champion, Ranger also returned to the circuit for five races in 2010 and registered three wins. In 42 career starts north of the border, the Roxton Pond, Que., driver has 12 wins and 37 top 10s.

This will be Ranger’s third appearance in the NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown. Following his Canadian Tire Series championship seasons of 2007 and 2009, Ranger registered finishes of 39th and 15th on Irwindale’s wide half mile.

The NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown main event is broken up into three sections – two 100-lap segments preceding a 25-lap dash to the finish. The race features secured starting spots for the 2010 champions of NASCAR’s developmental series and race winners of the NASCAR K&N Pro Series from the 2010 season.

The schedule also includes a 75-lap NASCAR Whelen All-American Series Super Late Model race and a 50-lap NASCAR Whelen All-American Series Late Model race.

Both nights of racing will air live on SPEED, beginning each night at 10 p.m. ET. The coverage will be anchored by Rick Allen and Phil Parsons in the booth with Dick Berggren and Jim Tretow covering action in the pits.

For additional information, contact: Jason Cunningham, Integrated Marketing Communications, (704) 201-6658 or jcunningham@nascar.com

PHOTOS: Ste Eulalie (Que) 2011 Ice Racing Season Opener - Jan. 8, 2011

Thanks to Rick Young (www.rickattheraces.com) for these pics from the
Ice Racing Season Opener at Ste Eulalie, QC on January 8.