Mirabel (Québec), March 18, 2011.- Less than a month ago, the creation of Chamonix’s 24 Hours on Ice “Revival” was announced and now, the organizers of this motorsporting event are pleased to inform competitors, media, and spectators that on March 11th, a five-year deal was signed with Mirabel’s ICAR Complex to host its first 24 Hours on Ice on February 24th, 25th, and 26th, 2012. This exciting event, restricted to vehicles from the 1970s and 80s, will take place at the ICAR complex, situated on the site of the Montreal’s Mirabel International Airport (Québec, Canada).
Based on Chamonix’s 24 Hours, a European sporting concept that was very popular from the 1970s to the early 2000s attracting international (including Formula 1) champions, this event will be the only one of its kind in the world. The 24 Hours on Ice will reunite some of the best World Rally Championship cars to have competed between 1973 and 1981, as well as the vehicles that contested the victory in Chamonix during those same years.
As for the line-up, internationally re-known drivers will be at the wheel of at least forty cars including the Ford Escort MK2, Porsche 911, Talbot Lotus, BMW 2002, Lancia Stratos, Fiat 131 Abarth, Alpine-Renault and many others.
American, Canadian, and Quebec drivers will not be left out of this event as several places will be available on teams that have already announced their desire to contest the race in some of the most beautiful historic cars available. In addition, the 2011 champions from the NASCAR Canadian Tire series and Canadian Rally Championship will be offered a seat in this thrilling event.
Support races, in addition to special on-site activities, will complete the weekend’s 24 Hours on Ice itinerary.
A course specifically designed for the 24 Hours
The ICAR complex (www.circuiticar.com), situated in Mirabel, is a multifunctional site offering high quality infrastructure to facilitate motorsporting events. It is comprised of a road course approved by ASN Canada FIA, a karting track, a drag strip, a drift track, an autocross track, and a skid pad. With the addition of the ice course for next winter, ICAR will be the first location in the world to offer such a wide variety of events, ranging from NASCAR (the Grand Prix de Mirabel held next June 4th and 5th will host the NASCAR Canadian Tire series; the first Quebec event of the season) to the internationally anticipated ice racing.
The course for the 24 Hours on Ice will resemble that of the infamous track in Chamonix, but will boast a wider lane in order to allow the competitors to enjoy themselves to the fullest while offering the public a fantastic show at all times » mentions Marc Arseneau, the president of ICAR.
The biggest names from rally, endurance, and open wheel competition once took part in Chamonix’s 24 Hours at the foot of the Mont-Blanc. Many of them will be present at ICAR next winter for the inaugural edition of the 24 Hours on Ice for the "2012 Chamonix Revival" indicates Franz Hummel, event promoter.
Schedule details, as well as the initial list of registered drivers, will be announced in the fall. Tickets will also be for sale at that time. More information can currently be found at www.circuiticar.com (schedule of events) and www.24heures-sur-glace.com for periodic bulletins and event news.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Eco-Fuel Saver Debuts in Canada Solution for Fuel Emissions Launches Fresh off Daytona 500
Vancouver, British Columbia (March 17, 2011) – Eco-Fuel Saver, the revolutionary new fuel additive that sponsored TRG Motorsports No. 71 in the Daytona 500, is set to make its debut next month in Canada at Canadian Tire. This ground-breaking product reformulates hydrocarbon molecular chains, allowing fuel to burn more efficiently and completely in the combustion chamber. The results are increased mileage and dramatic emissions reductions.
CEO Rick Stewart says; “My desire to find a way to combat our escalating air pollution issues from the burning of fossil fuels is what inspired me to get involved with Eco-Fuel Saver and get it to market as quickly as possible. The positive impact that Eco-Fuel Saver will have on our environment is just tremendous. It really does work!”
Eco-Fuel Saver’s test results caught the attention of entrepreneur Rick Stewart, famous for his successful LaKOTA brand of arthritis and joint medications. He purchased the worldwide rights to the formulation from the inventor and has orchestrated its development to market.
Eco-Fuel Saver is the only fuel additive to perform at more than 300% greater than the standard of excellence set by EPA testing facilities. The product has independent, third party testing showing minimum mileage increases of 13% in gasoline and 16% in diesel fuel. It also lowers harmful NOx emissions by up to 65% and Diesel Particulates by as much as 91%. It is the first catalytic fuel reformulator to hit the market.
Rick Stewart and Andy Lally, driver of the Eco-Fuel Saver sponsored TRG Motorsports No. 71, will be in Toronto March 30th, to kick off the product’s launch in Canada.
For additional information on Eco-FuelSaver please go to www.ecofuelsaver.com
CEO Rick Stewart says; “My desire to find a way to combat our escalating air pollution issues from the burning of fossil fuels is what inspired me to get involved with Eco-Fuel Saver and get it to market as quickly as possible. The positive impact that Eco-Fuel Saver will have on our environment is just tremendous. It really does work!”
Eco-Fuel Saver’s test results caught the attention of entrepreneur Rick Stewart, famous for his successful LaKOTA brand of arthritis and joint medications. He purchased the worldwide rights to the formulation from the inventor and has orchestrated its development to market.
Eco-Fuel Saver is the only fuel additive to perform at more than 300% greater than the standard of excellence set by EPA testing facilities. The product has independent, third party testing showing minimum mileage increases of 13% in gasoline and 16% in diesel fuel. It also lowers harmful NOx emissions by up to 65% and Diesel Particulates by as much as 91%. It is the first catalytic fuel reformulator to hit the market.
Rick Stewart and Andy Lally, driver of the Eco-Fuel Saver sponsored TRG Motorsports No. 71, will be in Toronto March 30th, to kick off the product’s launch in Canada.
For additional information on Eco-FuelSaver please go to www.ecofuelsaver.com
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Scotia Speedworld Announces 2011 Schedule
(Halifax, NS – March 17, 2011) Scotia Speedworld, Atlantic Canada’s Action Centre, is pleased to announce its 2011 race schedule. 2011 marks the 24th season of racing at the 3/10 mile oval located just outside of Halifax, NS. The season kicks off on Sunday May, 22 with the Parts for Trucks Pro Stock Tour Season Opener. The Weekly Racing Series will see the much anticipated green flag on Sunday May, 29 after a long winter break. The Weekly Racing Series will run every Friday night following leading up to the Season Finale on September 9th. Fan favorite Monster Jam returns to Scotia on June 11 and 12.
The Weekly Racing Series provides an arena for racers of any age to hone their driving talents. The Series features 6 divisions of racecars. Youth can start their racing careers in the Bandolero division and move through the ranks to the four-cylinder Thunder and Lightning class, the ¼ ton Truck division, the 5/8 scale Legends division or the eight-cylinder Sportsman division. Drivers in all divisions accumulate points based on their finishing position at every race; the driver with the most points in each division at the end of the season is crowned champion.
In addition to the Parts for Trucks Pro Stock Tour Season Opener, Scotia Speedworld will host the regional touring series for three other events including the Season Finale on September 10, the Lockhart Truck Centre 100 on July 2 and the prestigious Atlantic CAT 250 weekend on August 12 and 13. The CAT 250 weekend will feature the Sportsman 100 on Friday, Aug 12 followed by the 250 lap main event on Saturday August 13.
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 Parts for Trucks 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.
The Weekly Racing Series provides an arena for racers of any age to hone their driving talents. The Series features 6 divisions of racecars. Youth can start their racing careers in the Bandolero division and move through the ranks to the four-cylinder Thunder and Lightning class, the ¼ ton Truck division, the 5/8 scale Legends division or the eight-cylinder Sportsman division. Drivers in all divisions accumulate points based on their finishing position at every race; the driver with the most points in each division at the end of the season is crowned champion.
In addition to the Parts for Trucks Pro Stock Tour Season Opener, Scotia Speedworld will host the regional touring series for three other events including the Season Finale on September 10, the Lockhart Truck Centre 100 on July 2 and the prestigious Atlantic CAT 250 weekend on August 12 and 13. The CAT 250 weekend will feature the Sportsman 100 on Friday, Aug 12 followed by the 250 lap main event on Saturday August 13.
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 Parts for Trucks 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.
PERMATEX® SPONSORS JAY BLAKE AND THE FOLLOW A DREAM RACING TEAM IN QUEST FOR 2011 TITLE
Hartford, CT…Permatex, an innovative leader in chemical technology for automotive maintenance and repair, will continue its long-running support of the Follow A Dream Race Team into the 2011 season with a corporate sponsorship for the team in the 2011 NHRA Championship Top Alcohol Funny Car Series. Permatex has partnered with Jay Blake and his successful Follow A Dream Race Team since 2004.
The 2011 Follow A Dream Team will again challenge the NHRA series with its Permatex/Wynn's/Follow A Dream 2008 Chevrolet Impala SS Top Alcohol Funny Car and driver, Todd Veney, an experienced and successful NHRA racer and motorsports journalist, who joined the team in 2010. The team will compete coast to coast in a grueling, 13-race schedule that includes seven national events.
Editor note: Complete 2011 Follow A Dream race schedule follows at the end of release.
Jay Blake, founder, owner, and crew chief of Follow A Dream, exclaims, "We are very excited about the new NHRA season and believe we are in a good position to win the championship. Last year, we finished 2nd in our division, right on the heels of World Champ, Frank Manzo. Plus, we have Todd Veney driving for us again. He did a great job in 2010 and ended the season ranked 7th among the 87 TAFC cars that participated in the championship series."
Blake also noted, "Our relationship with Permatex continues to be a great opportunity for both organizations. We are extremely proud to be working with a company that is so highly respected in the industry, and we continue to rely on their outstanding products and support to keep our car competitive."
About Follow A Dream Follow A Dream Racing Team is a remarkable story in itself, and winning at the national level is only part of it. Follow A Dream's owner and crew chief, Jay Blake, is totally blind. Jay lost his eyesight in a tire explosion over 15 years ago, but he did not lose his positive attitude on life, nor his desire to pursue his dreams. Jay had always wanted to form his own race team, and in spite of his serious setback, he continued to focus on his goals. Through years of incredible determination and perseverance, he was able to realize his dream and founded Follow A Dream Racing. Since then, the team has worked its way up the rankings to become one of the top Funny Car teams in the world.
Jay Blake's Mission While he has worked incredibly hard to build his team, Jay Blake has also worked to encourage others to overcome adversity. For the past 15 years, he has toured the country as a motivational speaker at community schools, vocational institutes, corporate events, social club gatherings and hospitals, encouraging people to believe that they can rise above adversity and achieve their life's goals.
About Permatex Permatex is a leading manufacturer, distributor, and marketer of premium chemical products to the automotive maintenance and repair markets. Since 1909, Permatex has been an acknowledged leader in the development of innovative new products and services for the automotive aftermarket.
Permatex markets a wide range of products under well-known ITW brand names such as Permatex®, Fast Orange®, No Touch®, NOS®, Spray Nine®, The Right Stuff®, Gel Twist®, PermaPoxy®, Ultra Bond® and Dr Bond®, Ultra Cherry®, Grez-Off®, and Earth Soap®. NOS is a registered trademark of Nitrous Oxide Systems®.
Permatex currently operates in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the U.K. and exports products to more than 85 countries around the world. North American operations include Permatex's headquarters in Hartford, CT, a state-of-the-art manufacturing, distribution, and technical center located in Solon, OH, and a manufacturing facility in Kansas City, KS.
Permatex is a division of ITW (Illinois Tool Works Inc.), a US based, NYSE listed corporation, founded in 1912. ITW is a Fortune 200 diversified manufacturing company.
The 2011 Follow A Dream Team will again challenge the NHRA series with its Permatex/Wynn's/Follow A Dream 2008 Chevrolet Impala SS Top Alcohol Funny Car and driver, Todd Veney, an experienced and successful NHRA racer and motorsports journalist, who joined the team in 2010. The team will compete coast to coast in a grueling, 13-race schedule that includes seven national events.
Editor note: Complete 2011 Follow A Dream race schedule follows at the end of release.
Jay Blake, founder, owner, and crew chief of Follow A Dream, exclaims, "We are very excited about the new NHRA season and believe we are in a good position to win the championship. Last year, we finished 2nd in our division, right on the heels of World Champ, Frank Manzo. Plus, we have Todd Veney driving for us again. He did a great job in 2010 and ended the season ranked 7th among the 87 TAFC cars that participated in the championship series."
Blake also noted, "Our relationship with Permatex continues to be a great opportunity for both organizations. We are extremely proud to be working with a company that is so highly respected in the industry, and we continue to rely on their outstanding products and support to keep our car competitive."
About Follow A Dream Follow A Dream Racing Team is a remarkable story in itself, and winning at the national level is only part of it. Follow A Dream's owner and crew chief, Jay Blake, is totally blind. Jay lost his eyesight in a tire explosion over 15 years ago, but he did not lose his positive attitude on life, nor his desire to pursue his dreams. Jay had always wanted to form his own race team, and in spite of his serious setback, he continued to focus on his goals. Through years of incredible determination and perseverance, he was able to realize his dream and founded Follow A Dream Racing. Since then, the team has worked its way up the rankings to become one of the top Funny Car teams in the world.
Jay Blake's Mission While he has worked incredibly hard to build his team, Jay Blake has also worked to encourage others to overcome adversity. For the past 15 years, he has toured the country as a motivational speaker at community schools, vocational institutes, corporate events, social club gatherings and hospitals, encouraging people to believe that they can rise above adversity and achieve their life's goals.
About Permatex Permatex is a leading manufacturer, distributor, and marketer of premium chemical products to the automotive maintenance and repair markets. Since 1909, Permatex has been an acknowledged leader in the development of innovative new products and services for the automotive aftermarket.
Permatex markets a wide range of products under well-known ITW brand names such as Permatex®, Fast Orange®, No Touch®, NOS®, Spray Nine®, The Right Stuff®, Gel Twist®, PermaPoxy®, Ultra Bond® and Dr Bond®, Ultra Cherry®, Grez-Off®, and Earth Soap®. NOS is a registered trademark of Nitrous Oxide Systems®.
Permatex currently operates in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the U.K. and exports products to more than 85 countries around the world. North American operations include Permatex's headquarters in Hartford, CT, a state-of-the-art manufacturing, distribution, and technical center located in Solon, OH, and a manufacturing facility in Kansas City, KS.
Permatex is a division of ITW (Illinois Tool Works Inc.), a US based, NYSE listed corporation, founded in 1912. ITW is a Fortune 200 diversified manufacturing company.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
First-ever visit of James Hunt's McLaren M-26 and the return of Mario Andretti's Lotus 79 - Back by Popular Demand, the Historic Formula 1 Cars Return
Montréal, March 15, 2011 - Due to the tremendous success of the vintage Formula 1 cars with the fans at last year's Canadian Grand Prix, organizers have decided to renew the invitation to the owners-drivers of Historic Grand Prix for the upcoming June 10, 11 & 12 event. The group responded with enthusiasm to the invitation sent by Octane Racing Group, the promoters of the Grand Prix, by announcing that a McLaren M-26 driven in 1977 by James Hunt and the 1978 Championship winning Mario Andretti Lotus 79 will be competing in Montreal for the first time in the Historic Grand Prix race. More than 30 of these iconic cars will compete on track and spectators will also be able to see them up close in the open paddocks located in the east section of Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.
"We have established a close relationship with the members of the Historic Grand Prix, a group of people that share the same passion as a great number of our faithful fans. Their confirmed presence on the 2011 Canadian Grand Prix schedule can easily be summarized: They wanted to come back and we wanted them back," explained Mr. François Dumontier, President of Octane Racing Group and President of Grand Prix du Canada. Furthermore, they have included to their already remarkable roster of historic open wheelers, two single-seaters, one of which is a legend. I think that spectators at the Grand Prix will be pleased to see these two cars up close, one which took part of the last Canadian Grand Prix held at Mosport Park and the other which competed in the first Grand Prix ever held in Montréal."
"For Historic Grand Prix to be once again invited to race in Montreal on Circuit Gilles Villeneuve at the Canadian Grand Prix is a tremendous thrill and honor. The fans here are fantastic; very knowledgeable and enthusiastic and fun to chat with in our paddock," said James King, co-director of Historic Grand Prix. Last year we brought 30 genuine F1 cars from the 1966-1983 era and presented a near perfect event - every car completed every lap of every session, save one gearbox DNF.
"Those attending the 2011 Canadian Grand Prix next June 10, 11 & 12, will once again have a close look at the legendary singles-seaters built by Brabham, Tyrrell, March, Shadow and other great manufacturers. Also part of the program, Williams and Ferraris, two of which were driven by the late great Gilles Villeneuve, as well as the two new cars.
The James Hunt McLaren M26 was first seen at the Spanish Grand Prix, round five of the 1977 season. The British driver, who was the 1976 defending World Champion, drove it to pole position in Canada in the fall of 1977 during the last-ever Canadian Grand Prix held at the Mosport Park circuit. As for the Lotus 79, it was seen on Circuit Ile Notre Dame during the inaugural Canadian Grand Prix held in Montréal in 1978 driven by Mario Andretti, who eventually drove the Black Beauty to the World Championship title. The Lotus 79 was an improved version of the revolutionary wing car designed by Team Lotus owner Colin Chapman. Three decades and a few winks later, it remains to diehard fans the most beautiful Formula 1 car ever seen on track.
"For HGP the biggest thrill of the weekend might be the interest and excitement shown by the current F1 teams. Having people like Patrick Head, Ross Brawn and Frank Williams see their former cars turned out properly and raced with spirit, is very special for us," concluded James King. It is unfortunate that the late Colin Chapman will not witness the return of the Lotus 79.
Those wishing to buy grandstand and general admission tickets can contact the Canadian Grand Prix box office seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 514 350-0000, or order online anytime at http://www.circuitgillesvilleneuve.ca/. Organizers are also offering a variety of corporate packages for both small and large companies and other groups who wish to attend the 2011 Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix. To make a reservation or to obtain further information on corporate packages, contact Julie Rioux-Paquette at 514 350-4731.
A Canadian company established in Montreal, Octane Racing Group Inc. is the promoter of the FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX DU CANADA 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).
Hinchcliffe Impresses Again in IndyCar - Canadian Remains Fastest Rookie in Pre-Season Wrap
Birmingham, Alabama (March 15, 2011) – While Canadian James Hinchcliffe has yet to conclude a deal to compete in the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series, the rookie once again impressed in the final day of pre-season testing on Tuesday at Barber Motorsports Park. The 2010 Firestone Indy Lights Runner-up, driving the No.06 Newman/Haas Racing entry, ended the day seventh fastest, comfortably nestled between veteran race winners and IndyCar Champions.
Impressive on Monday, where he set the fifth fastest time of the day, James was again amongst the pacesetters on Tuesday when track action finally commenced after a weather delay. In the shortened morning session the Toronto-born racer recorded 19 laps around the 2.3-mile Barber Motorsports Park permanent road course. Fourth fastest, and top rookie, James was only beaten on the lap charts by the Team Penske trio of Will Power, Ryan Briscoe and Helio Castroneves – Power having been the fastest driver throughout Monday’s sessions.
The afternoon’s on-track activities saw both Hinchcliffe and Newman/Haas Racing team-mate, Oriol Servia, both top the timesheets at various points. At the close of play though James’ best lap, a 1m12.520s, was good for seventh fastest on the day, the best by a rookie, with three-time Indy 500 Winner, Helio Castroneves taking top honours with a time of 1m11.943s.
“We had a bit of weather to deal with in the morning which affected the schedule but once we got going we picked up right where we left off which was great,” explained Hinchcliffe. “We managed to stay on the program we had initially intended for the morning and we ended up fourth overall for the first session which was again very satisfying.
“Our plan for the afternoon was always to do some longer runs and get some full fuel runs in as well. I had a bit of a spin on my new tire run and unfortunately that compromised a bit of track time for us. We didn’t quite get as much time as we’d have liked from the afternoon, I think we could have gone a bit faster. That said, from a team perspective it was a good day and Oriol (Servia) made some great gains in the final session. No doubt that for Newman/Haas Racing it was a super productive day. It was a good sign for the team to have us both up there!”
On the hopes of landing a seat to compete in this year’s IndyCar season Hinchcliffe commented;
“I’m obviously extremely grateful to Newman/Haas Racing for not only this opportunity at Barber but for my earlier tests at Sebring. I’m incredibly happy that we managed to achieve the results that we did here this week. I’m still working hard to get our deal finalized. I’d like to think that the results from this test will certainly help and having been up against the entire IndyCar field, I’m hungrier than ever to compete at the top level!”
The 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series kicks off in St. Petersburg, Florida, Friday 25th – Sunday 27th March. The 17-race 2011 schedule includes two Canadian stops, the ‘Honda Indy Toronto’, Sunday 10th July, and the ‘Edmonton Indy’, Sunday 24th July – www.indycar.com
Impressive on Monday, where he set the fifth fastest time of the day, James was again amongst the pacesetters on Tuesday when track action finally commenced after a weather delay. In the shortened morning session the Toronto-born racer recorded 19 laps around the 2.3-mile Barber Motorsports Park permanent road course. Fourth fastest, and top rookie, James was only beaten on the lap charts by the Team Penske trio of Will Power, Ryan Briscoe and Helio Castroneves – Power having been the fastest driver throughout Monday’s sessions.
The afternoon’s on-track activities saw both Hinchcliffe and Newman/Haas Racing team-mate, Oriol Servia, both top the timesheets at various points. At the close of play though James’ best lap, a 1m12.520s, was good for seventh fastest on the day, the best by a rookie, with three-time Indy 500 Winner, Helio Castroneves taking top honours with a time of 1m11.943s.
“We had a bit of weather to deal with in the morning which affected the schedule but once we got going we picked up right where we left off which was great,” explained Hinchcliffe. “We managed to stay on the program we had initially intended for the morning and we ended up fourth overall for the first session which was again very satisfying.
“Our plan for the afternoon was always to do some longer runs and get some full fuel runs in as well. I had a bit of a spin on my new tire run and unfortunately that compromised a bit of track time for us. We didn’t quite get as much time as we’d have liked from the afternoon, I think we could have gone a bit faster. That said, from a team perspective it was a good day and Oriol (Servia) made some great gains in the final session. No doubt that for Newman/Haas Racing it was a super productive day. It was a good sign for the team to have us both up there!”
On the hopes of landing a seat to compete in this year’s IndyCar season Hinchcliffe commented;
“I’m obviously extremely grateful to Newman/Haas Racing for not only this opportunity at Barber but for my earlier tests at Sebring. I’m incredibly happy that we managed to achieve the results that we did here this week. I’m still working hard to get our deal finalized. I’d like to think that the results from this test will certainly help and having been up against the entire IndyCar field, I’m hungrier than ever to compete at the top level!”
The 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series kicks off in St. Petersburg, Florida, Friday 25th – Sunday 27th March. The 17-race 2011 schedule includes two Canadian stops, the ‘Honda Indy Toronto’, Sunday 10th July, and the ‘Edmonton Indy’, Sunday 24th July – www.indycar.com
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Ed Moody reporting from Sebring...
Veteran motorsports writer / enthusiast Ed Moody is at Sebring for the 12 Hour race this coming weekend. Below is a quick email from Ed as the teams prepare to enter the legendary racing facility....
Wickens on the pace in Barcelona
Marussia backed driver Robert Wickens set the pace in this afternoon’s Formula Renault 3.5 test in Barcelona, despite treacherous conditions around the Circuit de Cataluyna. The Canadian finished the afternoon quickest, while team mate Vergne continues to make a strong start to his first full season in the series and was sixth quickest..
The Formula Renault 3.5 drivers were greeted with wet conditions this morning as the second collective test of the season got underway. Both Vergne and Wickens started off the day working to a specific development programme rather than a rush to post the best lap times. A torrential downpour soon curtailed any further progress however, with the morning session red flagged due to dangerous track conditions.
As the rain began to ease, track conditions improved sufficiently to allow track action to resume after lunch, with Wickens taking the early initiative to climb to the top of the timesheets. The Carlin man’s time remained unbeaten for the remainder of the afternoon.
2010 British F3 champion Vergne was also on strong form. Conditions meant the Frenchman struggled to capitalise on his new tyres, but the Red Bull Junior still managed to finish the afternoon sixth quickest.
Wickens said, “The day went fairly well, we stayed to the test plan and got quite a lot accomplished which considering the weather was quite an achievement. It’s good to be quickest of the afternoon, but I don’t think the times from today are an accurate reflection as the conditions and everyone’s tyre strategies were so variable. However, the car felt good and I think we have a good wet set-up here and it’s always a nice boost for the team to finish at the top of the time sheets.”
Speaking about his test, Vergne said, “We did some good testing today, we had a little bit of a problem as the tyres were going off quite quickly but we still made progress. The time we did doesn’t really reflect the work we did during the day; every time we put new tyres on the track got wetter or there was a red flag but we’re in a good position to make more progress tomorrow.”
“It was very difficult to judge what the true pace was today,” added Trevor Carlin. “The rain before lunch was incredible and it was just impossible for the cars to run so we didn’t do as many laps as we’d hoped but that was the case for everyone. Robert and Jean-Eric both did a good job today. They managed to make the most of their test programmes despite the conditions and I think we showed that as a team we’ve got a good wet set-up here. Hopefully tomorrow will be dry and the drivers will be able to make the most of the track time.”
The Formula Renault 3.5 drivers were greeted with wet conditions this morning as the second collective test of the season got underway. Both Vergne and Wickens started off the day working to a specific development programme rather than a rush to post the best lap times. A torrential downpour soon curtailed any further progress however, with the morning session red flagged due to dangerous track conditions.
As the rain began to ease, track conditions improved sufficiently to allow track action to resume after lunch, with Wickens taking the early initiative to climb to the top of the timesheets. The Carlin man’s time remained unbeaten for the remainder of the afternoon.
2010 British F3 champion Vergne was also on strong form. Conditions meant the Frenchman struggled to capitalise on his new tyres, but the Red Bull Junior still managed to finish the afternoon sixth quickest.
Wickens said, “The day went fairly well, we stayed to the test plan and got quite a lot accomplished which considering the weather was quite an achievement. It’s good to be quickest of the afternoon, but I don’t think the times from today are an accurate reflection as the conditions and everyone’s tyre strategies were so variable. However, the car felt good and I think we have a good wet set-up here and it’s always a nice boost for the team to finish at the top of the time sheets.”
Speaking about his test, Vergne said, “We did some good testing today, we had a little bit of a problem as the tyres were going off quite quickly but we still made progress. The time we did doesn’t really reflect the work we did during the day; every time we put new tyres on the track got wetter or there was a red flag but we’re in a good position to make more progress tomorrow.”
“It was very difficult to judge what the true pace was today,” added Trevor Carlin. “The rain before lunch was incredible and it was just impossible for the cars to run so we didn’t do as many laps as we’d hoped but that was the case for everyone. Robert and Jean-Eric both did a good job today. They managed to make the most of their test programmes despite the conditions and I think we showed that as a team we’ve got a good wet set-up here. Hopefully tomorrow will be dry and the drivers will be able to make the most of the track time.”
Hinchcliffe Fifth Fastest in IndyCar Test
Birmingham, Alabama (March 14, 2011) – Canada’s James Hinchcliffe made the most of his opportunity to pit himself against the full 24-car 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series field on Monday finishing the opening day of the final pre-season test fifth fastest at Barber Motorsports Park, Alabama.
Hinchcliffe, enjoying his third test outing in an IndyCar courtesy of Newman/Haas Racing, impressed with the second fastest lap time in the morning’s session, good for fifth overall on the day, followed by the seventh quickest time in the afternoon on the way to recording a total of 70 laps.
The 24-year-old Toronto resident comfortably claimed ‘top rookie’ honours at the 2.3-mile permanent road course, bested only in the morning by 2010 Series Runner-Up, Will Power – Hinchcliffe’s time a 1m12.872s (113.622mph) to Power’s 1m12.715s (113.868mph). The Australian again headed the timesheets in the afternoon, with a faster lap of 1m12.505s (114.198mph) – the Team Penske driver continuing his domination of road courses having won the ‘Mario Andretti Road Championship Trophy’ last year.
‘Hinch’, last season’s Firestone Indy Lights Series Runner-Up, dialed himself in quickly to the demands of driving an IndyCar around the scenic Barber Motorsports Park – the Canadian no stranger to the track having set the pace in last year’s equivalent pre-season Indy Lights test.
With his two previous IndyCar runs for Newman/Haas Racing hosted at Florida’s Sebring International Raceway, in December and January respectively, the rookie was pumped by a change of scenery testing once again alongside Catalan veteran, Oriol Servia, who finished the day 14th fastest.
“It was a good, solid day and I’m definitely happy to be in the top-ten,” stated Hinchcliffe. “I had certain expectations but today’s efforts exceeded them which is great. We made some good gains in the car but to be fair I spun early in the afternoon and flat-spotted a set of tires. That forced me to run my stickers way too early. A couple of stints later I matched my best lap which isn’t bad considering the super-high tire degradation at this track so we reckon there’s more time to find!
“I enjoyed myself, even if it was a bit nerve wracking this morning seeing everyone lined up. I hadn’t been out on-track in an IndyCar with more than four other cars until now. I’ve also been watching most of these guys race on TV for the last five years so it was a little surreal to be there with them. We just got on with our program though and accomplished all we wanted!”
Tuesday marks the final day of testing before the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series field gathers in St. Petersburg, Florida for Round 1 of the 17-race season, Friday 25th – Sunday 27th March. The 2011 schedule includes two Canadian stops, the ‘Honda Indy Toronto’, Sunday 10th July, and the ‘Edmonton Indy’, Sunday 24th July – www.indycar.com
Hinchcliffe, enjoying his third test outing in an IndyCar courtesy of Newman/Haas Racing, impressed with the second fastest lap time in the morning’s session, good for fifth overall on the day, followed by the seventh quickest time in the afternoon on the way to recording a total of 70 laps.
The 24-year-old Toronto resident comfortably claimed ‘top rookie’ honours at the 2.3-mile permanent road course, bested only in the morning by 2010 Series Runner-Up, Will Power – Hinchcliffe’s time a 1m12.872s (113.622mph) to Power’s 1m12.715s (113.868mph). The Australian again headed the timesheets in the afternoon, with a faster lap of 1m12.505s (114.198mph) – the Team Penske driver continuing his domination of road courses having won the ‘Mario Andretti Road Championship Trophy’ last year.
‘Hinch’, last season’s Firestone Indy Lights Series Runner-Up, dialed himself in quickly to the demands of driving an IndyCar around the scenic Barber Motorsports Park – the Canadian no stranger to the track having set the pace in last year’s equivalent pre-season Indy Lights test.
With his two previous IndyCar runs for Newman/Haas Racing hosted at Florida’s Sebring International Raceway, in December and January respectively, the rookie was pumped by a change of scenery testing once again alongside Catalan veteran, Oriol Servia, who finished the day 14th fastest.
“It was a good, solid day and I’m definitely happy to be in the top-ten,” stated Hinchcliffe. “I had certain expectations but today’s efforts exceeded them which is great. We made some good gains in the car but to be fair I spun early in the afternoon and flat-spotted a set of tires. That forced me to run my stickers way too early. A couple of stints later I matched my best lap which isn’t bad considering the super-high tire degradation at this track so we reckon there’s more time to find!
“I enjoyed myself, even if it was a bit nerve wracking this morning seeing everyone lined up. I hadn’t been out on-track in an IndyCar with more than four other cars until now. I’ve also been watching most of these guys race on TV for the last five years so it was a little surreal to be there with them. We just got on with our program though and accomplished all we wanted!”
Tuesday marks the final day of testing before the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series field gathers in St. Petersburg, Florida for Round 1 of the 17-race season, Friday 25th – Sunday 27th March. The 2011 schedule includes two Canadian stops, the ‘Honda Indy Toronto’, Sunday 10th July, and the ‘Edmonton Indy’, Sunday 24th July – www.indycar.com
Monday, March 14, 2011
Targa Newfoundland creates Next Generation Challenge for small, sporty cars
ST. JOHN’S (March 14, 2011) – Targa Newfoundland has issued a challenge to the manufacturers of small sporty cars – and the owners who love them – with a new competition for fuel-efficient, small-displacement cars.
The Targa Newfoundland Next Generation Challenge will be a competition-within-a-competition that pits cars of up to 1.6-litres displacement against each other in a contest that puts the spotlight on the coming generation of appealing, sophisticated, fun-to-drive cars available in North America.
The Next Generation Challenge will be part of the 10th annual Targa competition this September, Targa organizer Robert Giannou announced.
“We want to provide a distinct competition for these sporty, fun-to-drive cars that are quickly becoming a major factor in the market. It will be a platform for manufacturers to demonstrate the performance attributes and sporty personalities of this appealing generation of new models, and an opportunity for their owners to share the spotlight with the great sporting cars that annually come to Targa,” said Giannou
The Next Generation Challenge will be a two-year trial and will be open to production cars of 1.6-litres displacement or less, sold in North America since model year 2009. Entries must comply with the rules of either Modern or Open Divisions within Targa, and will compete on an equal footing (no handicap). Entries will also score in the Divisions where they are eligible to compete. A separate Next Generation Challenge award will be offered and other rules will also apply.
A dozen small, sporty models are potentially eligible for Next Generation Challenge, including cars from Chevrolet, Fiat, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, MINI, Nissan, Suzuki and Toyota. Eligible new cars will be added to the list as they become available in North America.
“We believe that car manufacturers will see Next Generation Challenge as a terrific opportunity to demonstrate that there are dimensions to these cars in addition to their attractive fuel economy,” Giannou adds. “We welcome them to Targa.”
Owned and operated by Newfoundland International Motorsports Limited, Targa Newfoundland is one of three internationally recognized Targa motorsports events in the world. The 10th annual Targa Newfoundland will start in St. John’s on Saturday, September 10, 2011, and end back in the capital Saturday, September 17. The competition will cover more than 2,000 kilometres of the challenging, twisty roads of the central and eastern portion of Newfoundland, including up to 450 kilometres of closed-road, flat-out Targa stages.
The Targa Newfoundland Next Generation Challenge will be a competition-within-a-competition that pits cars of up to 1.6-litres displacement against each other in a contest that puts the spotlight on the coming generation of appealing, sophisticated, fun-to-drive cars available in North America.
The Next Generation Challenge will be part of the 10th annual Targa competition this September, Targa organizer Robert Giannou announced.
“We want to provide a distinct competition for these sporty, fun-to-drive cars that are quickly becoming a major factor in the market. It will be a platform for manufacturers to demonstrate the performance attributes and sporty personalities of this appealing generation of new models, and an opportunity for their owners to share the spotlight with the great sporting cars that annually come to Targa,” said Giannou
The Next Generation Challenge will be a two-year trial and will be open to production cars of 1.6-litres displacement or less, sold in North America since model year 2009. Entries must comply with the rules of either Modern or Open Divisions within Targa, and will compete on an equal footing (no handicap). Entries will also score in the Divisions where they are eligible to compete. A separate Next Generation Challenge award will be offered and other rules will also apply.
A dozen small, sporty models are potentially eligible for Next Generation Challenge, including cars from Chevrolet, Fiat, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, MINI, Nissan, Suzuki and Toyota. Eligible new cars will be added to the list as they become available in North America.
“We believe that car manufacturers will see Next Generation Challenge as a terrific opportunity to demonstrate that there are dimensions to these cars in addition to their attractive fuel economy,” Giannou adds. “We welcome them to Targa.”
Owned and operated by Newfoundland International Motorsports Limited, Targa Newfoundland is one of three internationally recognized Targa motorsports events in the world. The 10th annual Targa Newfoundland will start in St. John’s on Saturday, September 10, 2011, and end back in the capital Saturday, September 17. The competition will cover more than 2,000 kilometres of the challenging, twisty roads of the central and eastern portion of Newfoundland, including up to 450 kilometres of closed-road, flat-out Targa stages.
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