ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (March 26, 2011) – Will Power led Team Penske’s strong performance Saturday by winning the pole position for the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, the season-opening race for the IZOD IndyCar Series.
Power’s fastest lap of 1:01.9625 around the 1.8-mile, 14-turn street circuit in the No. 12 Verizon Team Penske Dallara/Honda earned him the No. 1 starting position for Sunday’s race, which will be televised live on ABC-TV at 12:30 p.m. ET. It also led Team Penske’s effort, which resulted in three cars qualifying inside the top-10.
Ryan Briscoe will start fifth after he posted a top lap of 1:02.5744 in the No. 6 IZOD Team Penske Dallara/Honda, while Helio Castroneves will line up ninth on Sunday in the No. 3 Guidepoint Systems Team Penske Dallara/Honda as he clocked a fast lap of 1:02.8204.
Power, who claimed the Mario Andretti Road Course championship in 2010 and finished second to Dario Franchitti in the overall IZOD IndyCar Series championship last season, topped Franchitti by slightly more than 0.3 seconds for the pole on Saturday.
“It was a good session,” said Power, who won his second pole at St. Petersburg pole and the 17th pole of his Indy car racing career. “We knew it would be tough out there and the Verizon car is in great shape for tomorrow. I’m really happy to start the season this way.”
Briscoe would have liked to battle his teammate for the pole, but he acknowledged that fifth position is a solid place to start a 100-lap race on a tough street circuit.
“We’ve been running at the front all weekend and trying to tune it in,” said Briscoe, the 2009 winner at St Pete. “We don’t get to practice on the (Firestone alternate) red tire, so your setup can go one way. We’d backed ourselves into a bit of a corner today, and I wasn’t happy with the car going through the qualifying sessions, but it’s a good car for the race. I think we’ll be able to tune it. Fifth position is a solid starting spot. We’ll be able to race from there.”
An aggressive change after the opening round of qualifying may have cost Castroneves, a two-time winner at St. Petersburg, a shot at the Firestone Fast Six. "The Guidepoint Systems car was good today,” said the three-time Indianapolis 500 winner. “After the first session we made a change on the car and it was probably a little bit too greedy by me as we were trying to get the most out of the car for the Firestone Fast Six. It's not where we wanted to start, but at least we're in the top-10. We've seen before that people can start from there and get up to the front. That's the plan for us tomorrow."
Sunday’s race will mark the first in which the IZOD IndyCar Series will implement double-file restarts. “I’m looking forward to it,” said Power. “If you get shuffled back, you’ll have a chance to race back to it on the restarts. It’s going to be great for fans.”
On Sunday Team Penske will be looking for its fifth win in the last six races at St. Petersburg as the team tries to open the season with a victory for the third consecutive year.
From Merrill Cain / Penske Racing
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Friday, March 25, 2011
Fridays and Canadian Tire
There are a lot of good reasons to like Fridays. One of them is that's the day the Canadian Tire flyer comes out. A bonus this week is a special promotion (today and tomorrow only) whereby if you spend $50 in Canadian Tire, you get a $10 Gift Card.
The link to the flyer is here.... lots of cool stuff again this week.
Canadian Tire does a lot to support Canadian motorsports. There's a piece about them returning with 2008 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series champion Scott Steckly in the new issue of Inside Track Motorsport News.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Ferrari Challenge Series Returns to Circuit Gilles Villeneuve To Delight Fans at the Canadian Grand Prix
Montréal, March 24, 2011 - Spectators at the next June 10, 11 &12, 2011 Canadian Grand Prix will once again witness two exciting and highly contested race events featuring cars from the North American Ferrari Challenge Series. Entering its 19th season of competition, the series will compete for the 13th time on Circuit Gilles Villeneuve with their powerful and spectacular Ferrari 430s whose owner/drivers' only professional status is their daily occupation. Passion is what uniquely drives them to compete in this sport with their exotic cars. Furthermore, for the first time in Canada, the Ferrari 430 will share the track with the new thoroughbred Ferrari 458 Challenge.
"A Canadian Grand Prix without the Ferrari Challenge Series would not quite be The Canadian Grand Prix that we have known for more than a decade," said Mr. François Dumontier, President of Octane Racing Group and President of the event. The presence in Montréal of these gentlemen-drivers is a tradition worth maintaining. They always put on a great show, their races are highly competitive, and the numerous admirers of the Scuderia are always elated to see so many cars crested with the Prancing Horse insignia competing on track. It is also a real pleasure to deal with the people at the Ferrari Challenge, who are always thrilled to return to Montréal. The series also has its loyal supporters that come from all over America to enjoy their races. These are some of the many reasons why it is a pleasure to invite them back year after year."
"The Grand Prix du Canada weekend captures the attention of racing fans around the world," says Marco Mattiacci, President & CEO, Ferrari North America, "and provides the ideal backdrop for the Ferrari Challenge Series. Further, the weekend will represent the perfect moment for the Canadian debut of the new Ferrari 458 Challenge, a car born from passion for racing as well as from the invaluable experience stemming from our F1 activities and heritage.
"The Ferrari Challenge Series features the 500 horsepower 4.3-liter V8 engine F430 and F458 models specially prepared for road racing competition. The drivers are non-professional racers who own or rent their cars, while the service teams of authorized North American Ferrari dealers handle all race preparation. Fans attending the Canadian Grand Prix at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve will be able once again to meet and chat with the owner-drivers and their team during the weekend in the support paddock area.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).
Pennzoil to be Under the Hood of Top IZOD IndyCar Series Teams
Houston, Texas (March XX, 2011) - After a 20-year absence from IndyCar racing, Pennzoil is returning to the sport in a big way. In addition to being back on the track through the brand’s multi-year alliance with Penske Racing and Penske Corporation, the brand’s premium Pennzoil Ultra™ Euro 5W-40 motor oil has been approved for use in all Honda Indy V8 engines that will compete in the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series. And the Pennzoil Ultra Euro formulation that will be used by IndyCar’s top teams is the motor oil available to consumers today.
“Pennzoil is no stranger to Indy racing, so we are happy to add Pennzoil Ultra Euro 5W-40 to the short list of motor oils approved to keep our engines in pristine condition and working at optimum efficiency,” said Roger Griffiths, Technical Director of Honda Performance Development. “The engines we build are designed to deliver extremely high power outputs and reach very high engine speeds in each race, and our dyno testing has demonstrated that Pennzoil Ultra provides the top-tier lubrication performance that our engines require.”
In 2011, Pennzoil embarks on a multi-year alliance with Penske that expands Pennzoil’s motorsports presence to include the IZOD IndyCar Series. Pennzoil will be a primary sponsor of the No. 3 Shell V-Power-Pennzoil Ultra Dallara/Honda, driven by three-time Indianapolis 500 champion Helio Castroneves. Pennzoil Ultra Euro 5W-40 will be running in not only Helio’s IndyCar, but the cars of each of his Penske Racing teammates, Ryan Briscoe and Will Power, as well.
Pennzoil has a long history of involvement in motorsports, beginning with Russ Snowberger in 1930. Pennzoil’s history in Indy car racing has been highlighted victories by esteemed drivers Johnny Rutherford (1980), Rick Mears (1984, 1988), Danny Sullivan (1985) and Al Unser (1987).
“The opportunity to be in the engines of some of the top teams in Indy racing provides us with an environment to test our lubricants in extreme conditions,” said Pennzoil Global Brand Manager Debbie Van Schalkwyk. “Pennzoil scientists gain insights from the track that can be translated directly into the formulation of our consumer motor oils.”
Pennzoil Ultra became a reality through the incredibly high standard set by the Pennzoil brand and delivered by Shell Lubricants technology teams around the world. Years of collaboration resulted in a Pennzoil Ultra formulation that helps to keep engines as close to factory clean as possible, and far exceeds the most stringent car manufacturer standards for cleanliness and protection[1] – going beyond just lubricating and protecting an engine.
The Hyper Cleansing TechnologyTM built into Pennzoil UltraTM plays a critical role in the engine. The oil lubricates moving engine parts to reduce friction and power loss, and helps keep the engine clean by seeking out and dissolving contaminants safely into the oil before they form deposits in the engine.
Pennzoil UltraTM is available in SAE 5W-20, 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-30 and 10W-60 viscosities. Pennzoil UltraTM 5W-20, 5W-30 and 10W-30 viscosities can be found in major automotive retailers nationwide. Ordering information for Pennzoil UltraTM Euro 5W-40 and 10W-60 viscosities as well as additional information can be found at http://www.pennzoil.com/ .
About Pennzoil
Pennzoil® is the no. 1 selling motor oil and one of the most trusted brands in America. The Pennzoil line of quality products meets or exceeds industry specifications to offer exceptional engine cleansing and protection, and includes Pennzoil Ultra™ motor oil with Hyper Cleansing Technology™, Pennzoil Platinum® Full Synthetic motor oil, Pennzoil Gold™ motor oil, Pennzoil® High Mileage Vehicle® motor oil, Pennzoil® Advanced Protection motor oil, and Pennzoil Marine® engine oil. For more information about Pennzoil products, please visit http://www.pennzoil.com/Pennzoil is produced and marketed by Shell Lubricants. The term ‘Shell Lubricants’ collectively refers to the companies of Royal Dutch Shell plc that are engaged in the lubricants business. Shell Lubricants companies lead the lubricants industry, supplying 13.4% of global lubricants volume.[1] The companies manufacture and blend products for use in consumer, heavy industrial and commercial transport applications. The Shell Lubricants portfolio of top-quality brands includes Pennzoil®, Quaker State®, FormulaShell®, Shell TELLUS®, Shell RIMULA®, Shell ROTELLA® T, Shell SPIRAX® and Jiffy Lube® lubrication services.
[1] Based on GF-5, Ford, Chrysler, GM and Ferrari specifications
[1] Kline & Company, “Global Lubricants Industry 2009 – 2019.”
“Pennzoil is no stranger to Indy racing, so we are happy to add Pennzoil Ultra Euro 5W-40 to the short list of motor oils approved to keep our engines in pristine condition and working at optimum efficiency,” said Roger Griffiths, Technical Director of Honda Performance Development. “The engines we build are designed to deliver extremely high power outputs and reach very high engine speeds in each race, and our dyno testing has demonstrated that Pennzoil Ultra provides the top-tier lubrication performance that our engines require.”
In 2011, Pennzoil embarks on a multi-year alliance with Penske that expands Pennzoil’s motorsports presence to include the IZOD IndyCar Series. Pennzoil will be a primary sponsor of the No. 3 Shell V-Power-Pennzoil Ultra Dallara/Honda, driven by three-time Indianapolis 500 champion Helio Castroneves. Pennzoil Ultra Euro 5W-40 will be running in not only Helio’s IndyCar, but the cars of each of his Penske Racing teammates, Ryan Briscoe and Will Power, as well.
Pennzoil has a long history of involvement in motorsports, beginning with Russ Snowberger in 1930. Pennzoil’s history in Indy car racing has been highlighted victories by esteemed drivers Johnny Rutherford (1980), Rick Mears (1984, 1988), Danny Sullivan (1985) and Al Unser (1987).
“The opportunity to be in the engines of some of the top teams in Indy racing provides us with an environment to test our lubricants in extreme conditions,” said Pennzoil Global Brand Manager Debbie Van Schalkwyk. “Pennzoil scientists gain insights from the track that can be translated directly into the formulation of our consumer motor oils.”
Pennzoil Ultra became a reality through the incredibly high standard set by the Pennzoil brand and delivered by Shell Lubricants technology teams around the world. Years of collaboration resulted in a Pennzoil Ultra formulation that helps to keep engines as close to factory clean as possible, and far exceeds the most stringent car manufacturer standards for cleanliness and protection[1] – going beyond just lubricating and protecting an engine.
The Hyper Cleansing TechnologyTM built into Pennzoil UltraTM plays a critical role in the engine. The oil lubricates moving engine parts to reduce friction and power loss, and helps keep the engine clean by seeking out and dissolving contaminants safely into the oil before they form deposits in the engine.
Pennzoil UltraTM is available in SAE 5W-20, 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-30 and 10W-60 viscosities. Pennzoil UltraTM 5W-20, 5W-30 and 10W-30 viscosities can be found in major automotive retailers nationwide. Ordering information for Pennzoil UltraTM Euro 5W-40 and 10W-60 viscosities as well as additional information can be found at http://www.pennzoil.com/ .
About Pennzoil
Pennzoil® is the no. 1 selling motor oil and one of the most trusted brands in America. The Pennzoil line of quality products meets or exceeds industry specifications to offer exceptional engine cleansing and protection, and includes Pennzoil Ultra™ motor oil with Hyper Cleansing Technology™, Pennzoil Platinum® Full Synthetic motor oil, Pennzoil Gold™ motor oil, Pennzoil® High Mileage Vehicle® motor oil, Pennzoil® Advanced Protection motor oil, and Pennzoil Marine® engine oil. For more information about Pennzoil products, please visit http://www.pennzoil.com/Pennzoil is produced and marketed by Shell Lubricants. The term ‘Shell Lubricants’ collectively refers to the companies of Royal Dutch Shell plc that are engaged in the lubricants business. Shell Lubricants companies lead the lubricants industry, supplying 13.4% of global lubricants volume.[1] The companies manufacture and blend products for use in consumer, heavy industrial and commercial transport applications. The Shell Lubricants portfolio of top-quality brands includes Pennzoil®, Quaker State®, FormulaShell®, Shell TELLUS®, Shell RIMULA®, Shell ROTELLA® T, Shell SPIRAX® and Jiffy Lube® lubrication services.
[1] Based on GF-5, Ford, Chrysler, GM and Ferrari specifications
[1] Kline & Company, “Global Lubricants Industry 2009 – 2019.”
Audette Sets Sights on 2011 Title
Montreal, Quebec – After running a competitive partial season in, 2010 winning in the rain at Mosport, and following a third place championship effort in 2009, Remy Audette and Audette Racing have confirmed they will contest the entire 2011 F2000 Championship Series in their #21 Van Diemen/Zetec. It will mark the team’s fourth season in the F2000 Series, and its second full-season effort.
“We want to win a championship in the U.S.,” said Audette, who was the oldest winner in the 2010 F2000 tour at the age of 25. “We have a crew chief coming over from our touring car team and I think we will be able to fight for the title.”
Audette added he has been training all winter, and the car has been undergoing a rebuild since October. The Canadian was last in the F2000 car for fall testing at Mont Tremblant.
“Last year, if you averaged our points out in just the few races we did, we would have been right there for the title,” continued Audette, who added that the team will be mainly focusing on the F2000 Championship Series in 2011, limiting its touring car and formula ford efforts.
“To win the 2011 title, we will need to consistently get good results. If you win all the races that is better, but we need to be smart and finish them too.”
Audette said he was looking forward to the season opener at VIRgina International Raceway, since the team is always quick there. In 2009, Audette scored a pole and two podiums, and took home more hardware in 2010 with a second place run in Sunday’s race.
“It’ll also be the first time we make the trek to Road Atlanta,” Audette noted. “I am looking forward to that since we keep hearing good things about it.”
The F2000 season starts April 8-10, at VIRginia International Raceway.
“We want to win a championship in the U.S.,” said Audette, who was the oldest winner in the 2010 F2000 tour at the age of 25. “We have a crew chief coming over from our touring car team and I think we will be able to fight for the title.”
Audette added he has been training all winter, and the car has been undergoing a rebuild since October. The Canadian was last in the F2000 car for fall testing at Mont Tremblant.
“Last year, if you averaged our points out in just the few races we did, we would have been right there for the title,” continued Audette, who added that the team will be mainly focusing on the F2000 Championship Series in 2011, limiting its touring car and formula ford efforts.
“To win the 2011 title, we will need to consistently get good results. If you win all the races that is better, but we need to be smart and finish them too.”
Audette said he was looking forward to the season opener at VIRgina International Raceway, since the team is always quick there. In 2009, Audette scored a pole and two podiums, and took home more hardware in 2010 with a second place run in Sunday’s race.
“It’ll also be the first time we make the trek to Road Atlanta,” Audette noted. “I am looking forward to that since we keep hearing good things about it.”
The F2000 season starts April 8-10, at VIRginia International Raceway.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
AIM Autosport Fielding Three Cars in Star Mazda Championship
Woodbridge, Ont. (March 23, 2011) — AIM Autosport is pleased to announce that it will enter three cars in the 2011 Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear. AIM will field cars for Championship Class driver, Zack Meyer, and Expert Class drivers, Walt Bowlin and Larry Pegram.
Zack, an eighteen-year-old Torontonian, is a graduate of karting and is fresh off taking the shifter kart championship in the Florida Winter Tour. He made his Star Mazda debut last year at Mosport International Raceway, a one-off race with AIM. He is used to winning, but faces a steep learning curve this year as he adapts to cars. Zack will drive a silver and blue car sporting #66.
Both Walt and Larry raced with AIM in the Star Mazda series last year as their schedules permitted and the will continue that relationship this year.
Walt, who drove in the Masters Class last year, will join his friend Larry in the Expert Class after the merging of those groups this year. He will drive #23, a white and red car sponsored by Tampa Bay Jaw Surgery.
Larry is an AMA Superbike rider who began competing in Star Mazda last season following a little coaxing from Walt. Larry will drive #72, a white and blue car sponsored by Foremost Insurance Group and Tampa Bay Jaw Surgery.
Walt and Larry will compete at the season opener in St. Petersburg, Fla., and the following race at Barber Motorsports Park near Birmingham, Ala. They will then bow out as the series hosts a string of events on oval tracks and rejoin for selected races later in the season.
The Star Mazda Championship begins its 2011 season in St. Petersburg, Fla., March 25–26. Two practice sessions on the 25th will allow drivers to familiarize themselves with the street circuit before qualifying and racing on the 26th. The race, a 60-minute timed run, is scheduled to begin at 4:10 pm.
AIM Autosport
AIM Autosport is a professional motorsports team active in highly-competitive sports car and open-wheel racing series in North America. AIM has achieved success at every level through its operating efficiency, engineering skill, experience, dedication and stability of workforce. AIM’s top-tier program is a Daytona Prototype entry in the Grand Am Rolex Sports Car Series.
Since its launch in 1995, AIM has built a winning heritage by fielding competitive cars for talented young drivers in junior development categories. That continues with multi-car teams in the Road to Indy® professional driver development ladder where AIM is a perennial pacesetter in the Star Mazda series. For more information, visit aimautosport.com or facebook.com/AIMautosport.
Hinchcliffe Targets IndyCar Seat
Toronto, Ontario (March 23, 2011) – James Hinchcliffe left little doubt after last week’s final IndyCar Series test that should he secure a full-time ride in North America’s premier open-wheel category, the Canadian would be a front-runner.
While understandably frustrated not to be participating in this weekend’s 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series season-opener, the ‘Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg’, the 24-year-old will still be on-hand to watch the action up-close and personal as part of the Newman/Haas Racing team he tested with so successfully throughout the off-season.
Hinchcliffe’s third and final outing for the Illinois-based outfit, last week’s full-field test at Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama, saw the rookie comfortably amongst the pace-setters, finishing the first day fifth fastest and the second day seventh quickest having earlier topped the timesheets trading lap-times with team-mate and veteran racer, Oriol Servia.
As the lead rookie and top Canadian throughout the test, last year’s Firestone Indy Lights Runner-Up knows he’s capable of taking on the best in IndyCar, he’s just going to have to wait a little longer before making his race debut.
“It's frustrating to have to watch the first race of the season from the sidelines, especially after the open test where we performed pretty well against the whole field,” said the Canadian candidly. “That said, I can only look at the positives from all we’ve done over the past few months. I’ve demonstrated what I can do behind the wheel and trust me, there are a bunch of people working flat out to find the appropriate partners for me to make the most of the platform on offer.
“I have to say though, I want to be here long-term so we’re looking to find partners that can offer multi-year support in order to reap the benefits of a commercial program with me competing in the IndyCar Series. While it would be great to get some race starts under my belt, there’s little point in a stop-start campaign. I don’t necessarily want to be back to square one at the end of each season so if that means taking the time now to find the right partners, then that’s the deal we’ll work on!”
On being with Newman/Haas Racing this weekend as part of the team and a visible presence on the pit-wall ‘Hinch’ commented:
“I’d like to thank Newman/Haas Racing for inviting me to continue to be part of the team on IndyCar weekends. Yes, I want to be driving, but I’m still going to make the most of every opportunity, in or out of the car, to do all I can to achieve my goal. I know I have a lot to offer and I’m happy to work with the team in St Petersburg and keep myself dialed into what’s going on. They’re as keen as I am to make something happen – we have a common goal!”
The ‘Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg’, Round 1 of the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series starts on Sunday 27th March at 12:30pm EST – www.indycar.com
While understandably frustrated not to be participating in this weekend’s 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series season-opener, the ‘Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg’, the 24-year-old will still be on-hand to watch the action up-close and personal as part of the Newman/Haas Racing team he tested with so successfully throughout the off-season.
Hinchcliffe’s third and final outing for the Illinois-based outfit, last week’s full-field test at Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama, saw the rookie comfortably amongst the pace-setters, finishing the first day fifth fastest and the second day seventh quickest having earlier topped the timesheets trading lap-times with team-mate and veteran racer, Oriol Servia.
As the lead rookie and top Canadian throughout the test, last year’s Firestone Indy Lights Runner-Up knows he’s capable of taking on the best in IndyCar, he’s just going to have to wait a little longer before making his race debut.
“It's frustrating to have to watch the first race of the season from the sidelines, especially after the open test where we performed pretty well against the whole field,” said the Canadian candidly. “That said, I can only look at the positives from all we’ve done over the past few months. I’ve demonstrated what I can do behind the wheel and trust me, there are a bunch of people working flat out to find the appropriate partners for me to make the most of the platform on offer.
“I have to say though, I want to be here long-term so we’re looking to find partners that can offer multi-year support in order to reap the benefits of a commercial program with me competing in the IndyCar Series. While it would be great to get some race starts under my belt, there’s little point in a stop-start campaign. I don’t necessarily want to be back to square one at the end of each season so if that means taking the time now to find the right partners, then that’s the deal we’ll work on!”
On being with Newman/Haas Racing this weekend as part of the team and a visible presence on the pit-wall ‘Hinch’ commented:
“I’d like to thank Newman/Haas Racing for inviting me to continue to be part of the team on IndyCar weekends. Yes, I want to be driving, but I’m still going to make the most of every opportunity, in or out of the car, to do all I can to achieve my goal. I know I have a lot to offer and I’m happy to work with the team in St Petersburg and keep myself dialed into what’s going on. They’re as keen as I am to make something happen – we have a common goal!”
The ‘Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg’, Round 1 of the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series starts on Sunday 27th March at 12:30pm EST – www.indycar.com
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Fitzpatrick Returns to NASCAR Nationwide Series - Canadian Back to Tackle Saturday’s ‘Royal Purple 300’
Cambridge, Ontario (March 22, 2011) – Canada’s J.R. Fitzpatrick will make his second start of the 2011 NASCAR Nationwide Series this Saturday, 26th March, as the 22-year-old gets set to tackle the ‘Royal Purple 300’ at the Auto Club Speedway, Fontana, California.
Fitzpatrick will again campaign the No.27 Baker Curb Racing Ford Mustang, with support from Schick Hydro and Energizer Canada, the Ontario-resident returning for the fifth round of the year to the seat he occupied for the season-opener at the Daytona International Speedway in February.
Seeking a change of fortune, his race in the ‘DRIVE4COPD 300’ last month barely lasting 10 laps thanks to mechanical woes, Fitzpatrick is optimistic heading back to the NASCAR Nationwide Series and the potential of 150-laps around the 2-mile, D-shaped Fontana oval.
“I’m pumped to be getting back into the car this week,” the 2010 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Runner-up enthused. “It goes without saying we had a frustrating start to the season at Daytona. We were denied the opportunity to show what we could do by having to exit the race almost as soon as it had started. These things happen though but I’m glad to be back in NASCAR this weekend and continuing to build my oval resume thanks to support from Schick Hydro and Energizer Canada.
“I raced in the Truck Series at Fontana back in 2009 with TRG so I’m not flying completely blind coming back this week but there’s no doubt it’ll be a different story in the Nationwide Series. The most important thing for me is to take something from every opportunity behind the wheel and racing against this field. It’s great to be able to compete against all these drivers, including the Sprint Cup guys, it just makes me even hungrier to prove myself and ultimately step up when the opportunity presents itself!”
Fitzpatrick will get his first track action on Friday before Round 5 of the 2011 NASCAR Nationwide Series, the ‘Royal Purple 300’, at Fontana’s Auto Club Speedway starts on Saturday 26th March at 2:30pm PST / 5:30pm EST.
NASCAR fans in Canada can watch qualifying from California live at 1pm EST on Saturday on TSN2, with the race broadcast live later that afternoon with coverage starting at 5pm EST, also on TSN2.
www.jrfitzpatrick.com/ / Twitter: @J_R_Fitzpatrick
For further information on J.R. Fitzpatrick or interview requests please contact Stuart Morrison at SM-PR:
Cell: +1 514 945 3253 / Email: stuart@sm-pr.com
About Schick:
Schick Canada, a division of Energizer Canada Inc., is a leading manufacturer of high performance razors or men and women.
Committed to the development of shaving technology and innovation, Schick Canada has launched some of the most successful razors on the market including the all new The Schick Hydro ™ razor, featuring revolutionary Skin Guards that smooth out the skin between blades, protecting it during shaving, Xtreme3 ®, the first three-bladed disposable that flexes and pivots, Intuition Plus ®, the first razor that lathers shaves and moisturizes in one step, and Quattro ®, the first four-bladed system and disposable razor for men and women. For more information visit http://www.schick.ca/. FREE YOUR SKIN.
About Energizer:
Energizer® Holdings, Inc. is a consumer goods company operating globally in the broad categories of household and personal care products, and offers solutions in portable power, lighting, wet shave and personal grooming. Energizer Holdings, Inc. is the parent company of Energizer Battery and Schick-Wilkinson Sword. Combined, Energizer and Schick®, operate 23 manufacturing facilities in 14 countries on five continents and market and sell products in 165 countries. The Canadian headquarters are located in Walkerton, Ontario.
Fitzpatrick will again campaign the No.27 Baker Curb Racing Ford Mustang, with support from Schick Hydro and Energizer Canada, the Ontario-resident returning for the fifth round of the year to the seat he occupied for the season-opener at the Daytona International Speedway in February.
Seeking a change of fortune, his race in the ‘DRIVE4COPD 300’ last month barely lasting 10 laps thanks to mechanical woes, Fitzpatrick is optimistic heading back to the NASCAR Nationwide Series and the potential of 150-laps around the 2-mile, D-shaped Fontana oval.
“I’m pumped to be getting back into the car this week,” the 2010 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Runner-up enthused. “It goes without saying we had a frustrating start to the season at Daytona. We were denied the opportunity to show what we could do by having to exit the race almost as soon as it had started. These things happen though but I’m glad to be back in NASCAR this weekend and continuing to build my oval resume thanks to support from Schick Hydro and Energizer Canada.
“I raced in the Truck Series at Fontana back in 2009 with TRG so I’m not flying completely blind coming back this week but there’s no doubt it’ll be a different story in the Nationwide Series. The most important thing for me is to take something from every opportunity behind the wheel and racing against this field. It’s great to be able to compete against all these drivers, including the Sprint Cup guys, it just makes me even hungrier to prove myself and ultimately step up when the opportunity presents itself!”
Fitzpatrick will get his first track action on Friday before Round 5 of the 2011 NASCAR Nationwide Series, the ‘Royal Purple 300’, at Fontana’s Auto Club Speedway starts on Saturday 26th March at 2:30pm PST / 5:30pm EST.
NASCAR fans in Canada can watch qualifying from California live at 1pm EST on Saturday on TSN2, with the race broadcast live later that afternoon with coverage starting at 5pm EST, also on TSN2.
www.jrfitzpatrick.com/ / Twitter: @J_R_Fitzpatrick
For further information on J.R. Fitzpatrick or interview requests please contact Stuart Morrison at SM-PR:
Cell: +1 514 945 3253 / Email: stuart@sm-pr.com
About Schick:
Schick Canada, a division of Energizer Canada Inc., is a leading manufacturer of high performance razors or men and women.
Committed to the development of shaving technology and innovation, Schick Canada has launched some of the most successful razors on the market including the all new The Schick Hydro ™ razor, featuring revolutionary Skin Guards that smooth out the skin between blades, protecting it during shaving, Xtreme3 ®, the first three-bladed disposable that flexes and pivots, Intuition Plus ®, the first razor that lathers shaves and moisturizes in one step, and Quattro ®, the first four-bladed system and disposable razor for men and women. For more information visit http://www.schick.ca/. FREE YOUR SKIN.
About Energizer:
Energizer® Holdings, Inc. is a consumer goods company operating globally in the broad categories of household and personal care products, and offers solutions in portable power, lighting, wet shave and personal grooming. Energizer Holdings, Inc. is the parent company of Energizer Battery and Schick-Wilkinson Sword. Combined, Energizer and Schick®, operate 23 manufacturing facilities in 14 countries on five continents and market and sell products in 165 countries. The Canadian headquarters are located in Walkerton, Ontario.
IN-CAR VIDEO: Kirk Hooker - February 19, 2011 at New Smyrna Speedway
This video was taken February 19, 2011 at New Smyrna Speedway. It's the entire Late Model feature taken on a GoPro camera mounted on the dash of Kirk Hooker's car. Thanks to Kirk for letting us going along for the ride and to Greg 'MacGyver' Gibson for installing it.
Volume 15, Issue 2 of Inside Track Motorsport News features extensive coverage of the action at New Smyrna Speedway, Volusia Speedway Park and of course, Daytona International Speedway.
Call (416) 962-7223 to subscribe or visit www.insidetracknews.com to see how you can have the Official Publication of Canadian Motorsports arrive in your mailbox each month.
Canadian Superbike Championship by Parts Canada TO BE POWERED BY MOPAR®
TORONTO, ON (March 22, 2011) - Frontline CSBK Inc., Canada’s premier road racing series organizer, is thrilled to announce an exciting new relationship with Chrysler Canada and the Canadian Superbike Championship by Parts Canada.
The winner of the 2011 Superbike Championship will be presented with a new Jeep® Off-Road Camper Trailer from MOPAR valued close to $15,000. The unit will be on display at CSBK events throughout the season.
“This partnership with the Canadian Superbike Championship assists Mopar in expanding their marketing reach as a performance-based brand,” said Jim Kiritsis, Senior Manager Service and Parts. “The 2011 racing season will help us position Mopar with an enthusiast crowd that cares about performance just as much as we do."
As a show of support to our future racing stars, Mopar will also award $500 in product to the winner of each Amateur Superbike national event final. “This is a way to showcase the fact that our Mopar dealers carry a very wide range of products that are not just brand-specific,” said Jon Camilleri, Mopar Marketing Manager. “Most racers have tow vehicles and haulers, from oil filters to navigation units, we are guaranteed to have useful parts and accessories in our Mopar line-up that everybody can use.”
Chrysler Canada realizes how big of a role that tow vehicles play in the world of motorcycle racing so beginning April 1st; all CSBK membership holders will also be entitled to the Chrysler Advantage Plan, allowing significant savings in addition to most other current retail incentives when you purchase or lease any new Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge or Ram vehicle.
The 2011 Canadian Superbike Championship kicks off on May 20th with the Pirelli tire test at Calabogie Motorsports Park which will be hosted by the Turn 2 Sportbike School. Round one will take place May 27-29 at Circuit ICAR near Montreal, Quebec.
About Mopar
Mopar is Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. Mopar distributes approximately 280,000 parts and accessories in more than 90 countries and is the source for all original-equipment parts for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram Truck vehicles. Mopar parts are unique in that they are engineered and tested with the same teams that create factory-authorized vehicle specifications for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram Truck vehicles – a direct connection that no other aftermarket parts company can provide.
A complete list of Mopar accessories and performance parts is available at www.mopar.ca.
About Chrysler Canada
Founded as the Chrysler Corporation in 1925, Chrysler Canada Inc. is based in Windsor, Ontario, and celebrates its 86th anniversary in 2011. Chrysler Canada's product line-up features some of the world's most recognizable vehicles, including the Dodge Grand Caravan, Jeep® Wrangler, Chrysler 300 and Ram trucks.
Chrysler Canada is a wholly owned subsidiary of Chrysler Group LLC, one of the world's leading automotive companies. Chrysler Group LLC, formed in 2009 from a global strategic alliance with Fiat Group, produces Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram Truck and Mopar® vehicles and products. With the resources, technology and worldwide distribution network required to compete on a global scale, the alliance builds on Chrysler’s culture of innovation – first established by Walter P. Chrysler in 1925 – and Fiat’s complementary technology – from a company whose heritage dates back to 1899. Fiat will contribute world-class technology, platforms and powertrains for small- and medium-sized cars, allowing Chrysler Group to offer an expanded product line including environmentally friendly vehicles.
The sponsors of the 2011 Canadian Superbike Championship are: Parts Canada, BMW Motorrad Canada, Harley Davidson, Canadian Kawasaki, Pirelli, Honda Canada, Suzuki Canada, Yamaha Motor Canada, Turn2 Sportbike School, Dyno Jet, Design Junkies, Chrysler Canada and Lean Angle Canada
The winner of the 2011 Superbike Championship will be presented with a new Jeep® Off-Road Camper Trailer from MOPAR valued close to $15,000. The unit will be on display at CSBK events throughout the season.
“This partnership with the Canadian Superbike Championship assists Mopar in expanding their marketing reach as a performance-based brand,” said Jim Kiritsis, Senior Manager Service and Parts. “The 2011 racing season will help us position Mopar with an enthusiast crowd that cares about performance just as much as we do."
As a show of support to our future racing stars, Mopar will also award $500 in product to the winner of each Amateur Superbike national event final. “This is a way to showcase the fact that our Mopar dealers carry a very wide range of products that are not just brand-specific,” said Jon Camilleri, Mopar Marketing Manager. “Most racers have tow vehicles and haulers, from oil filters to navigation units, we are guaranteed to have useful parts and accessories in our Mopar line-up that everybody can use.”
Chrysler Canada realizes how big of a role that tow vehicles play in the world of motorcycle racing so beginning April 1st; all CSBK membership holders will also be entitled to the Chrysler Advantage Plan, allowing significant savings in addition to most other current retail incentives when you purchase or lease any new Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge or Ram vehicle.
The 2011 Canadian Superbike Championship kicks off on May 20th with the Pirelli tire test at Calabogie Motorsports Park which will be hosted by the Turn 2 Sportbike School. Round one will take place May 27-29 at Circuit ICAR near Montreal, Quebec.
About Mopar
Mopar is Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. Mopar distributes approximately 280,000 parts and accessories in more than 90 countries and is the source for all original-equipment parts for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram Truck vehicles. Mopar parts are unique in that they are engineered and tested with the same teams that create factory-authorized vehicle specifications for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram Truck vehicles – a direct connection that no other aftermarket parts company can provide.
A complete list of Mopar accessories and performance parts is available at www.mopar.ca.
About Chrysler Canada
Founded as the Chrysler Corporation in 1925, Chrysler Canada Inc. is based in Windsor, Ontario, and celebrates its 86th anniversary in 2011. Chrysler Canada's product line-up features some of the world's most recognizable vehicles, including the Dodge Grand Caravan, Jeep® Wrangler, Chrysler 300 and Ram trucks.
Chrysler Canada is a wholly owned subsidiary of Chrysler Group LLC, one of the world's leading automotive companies. Chrysler Group LLC, formed in 2009 from a global strategic alliance with Fiat Group, produces Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram Truck and Mopar® vehicles and products. With the resources, technology and worldwide distribution network required to compete on a global scale, the alliance builds on Chrysler’s culture of innovation – first established by Walter P. Chrysler in 1925 – and Fiat’s complementary technology – from a company whose heritage dates back to 1899. Fiat will contribute world-class technology, platforms and powertrains for small- and medium-sized cars, allowing Chrysler Group to offer an expanded product line including environmentally friendly vehicles.
The sponsors of the 2011 Canadian Superbike Championship are: Parts Canada, BMW Motorrad Canada, Harley Davidson, Canadian Kawasaki, Pirelli, Honda Canada, Suzuki Canada, Yamaha Motor Canada, Turn2 Sportbike School, Dyno Jet, Design Junkies, Chrysler Canada and Lean Angle Canada
Monday, March 21, 2011
WIX FILTERS AND PAUL TRACY JOIN DREYER & REINBOLD RACING FOR THE 100th ANNIVERSARY OF THE INDIANAPOLIS 500
Indianapolis, Ind. (March 21, 2011) - Dreyer & Reinbold Racing is excited to announce that WIX Filters will join the team as the primary sponsor on the DRR machine piloted by Paul Tracy during the 100th Anniversary of the Indianapolis 500. WIX, whose highly-engineered filtration products have become a staple in auto racing around the country, will unite with the team for the first time as the primary sponsor for the Indianapolis 500 as well as serve as an associate partner on the No. 22 car of Justin Wilson for the 2011 season.
"Dreyer & Reinbold Racing is extremely happy to welcome WIX Filters to the team for the Indianapolis 500 and for the 2011 season. We have worked hard to maintain a strong relationship with our sponsors and to build new ones. We couldn't be happier to have WIX Filters on board with us and we look forward to growing with them in the future. We are also very excited to have Paul drive the WIX Filters car. He's a great personality and driver and we believe he will be very competitive during the Indy 500," commented Dreyer & Reinbold Racing Co-Owner, Robbie Buhl.
Since 1939, WIX has been an innovator in filtration products. WIX designs, manufactures and distributes products for automotive, diesel, agricultural, industrial and specialty filter markets. Its product line includes oil, air, cabin interior, fuel, coolant, transmission and hydraulic filters for automobiles, trucks and off-road equipment.
"WIX has a strong history of racing excellence, from dirt tracks and drag strips to super speedways, and it is with great anticipation that we join forces with Dreyer & Reinbold Racing for our first expedition into IndyCar racing," said Jeff Blocher, vice president of sales for WIX Filters. "With this year marking the 100th Anniversary of the Indianapolis 500, there could be no better time for WIX to make its debut into this exciting competition. We look forward to sharing the WIX brand with the millions of IndyCar Series fans around the globe."
Piloting the DRR WIX Filters entry for the 100th Anniversary of the Indianapolis 500 will be Paul Tracy. The Canadian was the sensible choice for Dreyer & Reinbold Racing as not only does he have experience on ovals and at the Indianapolis 500, over his entire career, he has competed in 273 IndyCar-type events. Tracy, the 2003 Champ Car World Series champion, will be competing with DRR for the 4th time.
Tracy, now in his 21st season, has had a storied career that has made him one of the top drivers in open-wheel racing and the 'winning-est active driver' in the Series to date. He is among the top-10 in almost every Champ Car career statistical category including wins, 31 (tied for seventh all-time), poles, 25 (ninth all-time), and laps led, 4,238 (sixth all-time).
Over the last 20 years, Tracy has earned 75 career podium performances, 102 top-five finishes and 144 top-10 showings in 273 starts (262 in Champ Car and 11 in IZOD IndyCar, tied for seventh all-time). In the 15 seasons in which Tracy has competed in over 80 percent of the races, he has finished in the top-10 in the championship standings 10 times including eight times in the top-five, four in the top-three and captured the championship in 2003.
"Obviously it feels great to be back with Dreyer & Reinbold Racing. It's been a chaotic winter, but it's good to have the deal stowed away with a competitive program lined up with WIX Filters and DRR for the Indianapolis 500. I'm really happy to have signed a deal with Dennis and Robbie. It's great to be with a team like DRR, they have quality equipment and a solid engineering group with Larry Curry. It's a relief to have this deal done from that standpoint. I'm super excited, and want to thank WIX Filters for placing confidence in me as their brand ambassador at the Indy 500," commented Tracy.
Please stay tuned for more announcements to come in the following days. For more updates on the team, please visit www.dreyerreinboldracing.com.
About Dreyer & Reinbold Racing: Dreyer & Reinbold Racing is entering its 12th season of full-time competition in 2011, making it one of the longest-tenured teams in IZOD IndyCar Series competition. Current Co-Owners, Dennis Reinbold and Robbie Buhl, first teamed in full-time competition at the Walt Disney World Speedway in January of 2000. With Buhl behind the wheel, the two owners tasted victory in their debut race. The 2009 IZOD IndyCar Series season-opener, on the streets of St. Petersburg, marked Dreyer & Reinbold Racing's 200th series start. DRR now has over 270 starts to tuck under its belt and has qualified a total of 27 cars for the Indianapolis 500. In its history, the team has boasted a championship list of alumni drivers. Besides Buhl, the team has run Indianapolis 500 winners, Al Unser, Jr., Buddy Lazier, and Buddy Rice, along with IZOD IndyCar Series race winner, Ryan Briscoe. The team has one of the longest lines of heritage in American open-wheel racing and the Indianapolis 500 as Dennis Reinbold's grandfather, "Pop" Dreyer, built leading roadsters that raced at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway during the 30s, 40s, and 50s.
More information on WIX Filters can be found at www.wixfilters.com.
More information on the team can be found at www.dreyerreinboldracing.com.
More information on Paul Tracy can be found at www.paultracy.com
More information on the IZOD IndyCar Series can be found at www.indycar.com.
"Dreyer & Reinbold Racing is extremely happy to welcome WIX Filters to the team for the Indianapolis 500 and for the 2011 season. We have worked hard to maintain a strong relationship with our sponsors and to build new ones. We couldn't be happier to have WIX Filters on board with us and we look forward to growing with them in the future. We are also very excited to have Paul drive the WIX Filters car. He's a great personality and driver and we believe he will be very competitive during the Indy 500," commented Dreyer & Reinbold Racing Co-Owner, Robbie Buhl.
Since 1939, WIX has been an innovator in filtration products. WIX designs, manufactures and distributes products for automotive, diesel, agricultural, industrial and specialty filter markets. Its product line includes oil, air, cabin interior, fuel, coolant, transmission and hydraulic filters for automobiles, trucks and off-road equipment.
"WIX has a strong history of racing excellence, from dirt tracks and drag strips to super speedways, and it is with great anticipation that we join forces with Dreyer & Reinbold Racing for our first expedition into IndyCar racing," said Jeff Blocher, vice president of sales for WIX Filters. "With this year marking the 100th Anniversary of the Indianapolis 500, there could be no better time for WIX to make its debut into this exciting competition. We look forward to sharing the WIX brand with the millions of IndyCar Series fans around the globe."
Piloting the DRR WIX Filters entry for the 100th Anniversary of the Indianapolis 500 will be Paul Tracy. The Canadian was the sensible choice for Dreyer & Reinbold Racing as not only does he have experience on ovals and at the Indianapolis 500, over his entire career, he has competed in 273 IndyCar-type events. Tracy, the 2003 Champ Car World Series champion, will be competing with DRR for the 4th time.
Tracy, now in his 21st season, has had a storied career that has made him one of the top drivers in open-wheel racing and the 'winning-est active driver' in the Series to date. He is among the top-10 in almost every Champ Car career statistical category including wins, 31 (tied for seventh all-time), poles, 25 (ninth all-time), and laps led, 4,238 (sixth all-time).
Over the last 20 years, Tracy has earned 75 career podium performances, 102 top-five finishes and 144 top-10 showings in 273 starts (262 in Champ Car and 11 in IZOD IndyCar, tied for seventh all-time). In the 15 seasons in which Tracy has competed in over 80 percent of the races, he has finished in the top-10 in the championship standings 10 times including eight times in the top-five, four in the top-three and captured the championship in 2003.
"Obviously it feels great to be back with Dreyer & Reinbold Racing. It's been a chaotic winter, but it's good to have the deal stowed away with a competitive program lined up with WIX Filters and DRR for the Indianapolis 500. I'm really happy to have signed a deal with Dennis and Robbie. It's great to be with a team like DRR, they have quality equipment and a solid engineering group with Larry Curry. It's a relief to have this deal done from that standpoint. I'm super excited, and want to thank WIX Filters for placing confidence in me as their brand ambassador at the Indy 500," commented Tracy.
Please stay tuned for more announcements to come in the following days. For more updates on the team, please visit www.dreyerreinboldracing.com.
About Dreyer & Reinbold Racing: Dreyer & Reinbold Racing is entering its 12th season of full-time competition in 2011, making it one of the longest-tenured teams in IZOD IndyCar Series competition. Current Co-Owners, Dennis Reinbold and Robbie Buhl, first teamed in full-time competition at the Walt Disney World Speedway in January of 2000. With Buhl behind the wheel, the two owners tasted victory in their debut race. The 2009 IZOD IndyCar Series season-opener, on the streets of St. Petersburg, marked Dreyer & Reinbold Racing's 200th series start. DRR now has over 270 starts to tuck under its belt and has qualified a total of 27 cars for the Indianapolis 500. In its history, the team has boasted a championship list of alumni drivers. Besides Buhl, the team has run Indianapolis 500 winners, Al Unser, Jr., Buddy Lazier, and Buddy Rice, along with IZOD IndyCar Series race winner, Ryan Briscoe. The team has one of the longest lines of heritage in American open-wheel racing and the Indianapolis 500 as Dennis Reinbold's grandfather, "Pop" Dreyer, built leading roadsters that raced at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway during the 30s, 40s, and 50s.
More information on WIX Filters can be found at www.wixfilters.com.
More information on the team can be found at www.dreyerreinboldracing.com.
More information on Paul Tracy can be found at www.paultracy.com
More information on the IZOD IndyCar Series can be found at www.indycar.com.
Give a racer a hand... and find out how you can win a Harley from A&W
NASCAR Canadian Tire Series racer Jason White is getting ready for the 2012 season, driving the #21 A&W 'Cruisin the Dub' Dodge. Part of A&W's promotion involves an online contest to win a Harley-Davidson 'Fat Boy.'You can help get exposure for this contest - and thereby help Jason out - by going to this Facebook page promoting the contest and clicking 'like.' Thanks!
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