INSIDE TRACK TV: July 29 - Aug. 1, 2011

In this episode of Inside Track TV, host Spencer Lewis wraps up this week's two days of Sprint Car action at Ohsweken Speedway - featuring the World of Outlaws and NASCAR star Tony Stewart - and previews upcoming race event around Ontario and across Canada this weekend.
The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, OSCAAR Super Late Models, the Maritime Pro Stock Tour, August 1 at Merrittville Speedway, two days of action at Sunset, Delaware Speedway's 60th anniversary celebrations and more!

VP to Sponsor Red Bull Kart Fight at PRI

LAGUNA BEACH, CA (July 29, 2011) VP Racing Fuels, San Antonio, Texas, has taken an Associate Sponsor position for the Red Bull Kart Fight at PRI, Powered by Rotax, to be held on Thursday night, December 1, in Orlando. The event is part of the Performance Racing Industry Trade Show. 

Stars from NASCAR, ALMS, NHRA, Grand-Am and more come to the world's largest racing trade show to compete in the popular kart race in Orlando, Florida. The race course is a tight, technical, purpose-built race track adjacent to the Orange County Convention Center, housing the 700,000 square feet PRI Trade Show. Over 40,000 racing business people from 65 countries arrive in Orlando each December for the PRI Trade Show to view the latest advances in racing technology by 1,100 racing companies. 

VP Racing Fuels is the official fuel supplier for the race. The event will run on VP's Motorsport 93, also known as MS93. It is unleaded, and designed for lower compression engines in racing series that require a consistent, cost-effective controlled fuel. It is the fifth year VP has supported the kart race at the PRI Trade Show.

"VP Racing Fuels is a recognized world leader in race fuel technology, and we're very excited to have the company onboard as an Associate Sponsor," said Steve Lewis, producer of the PRI Trade Show. "They supply the fuel that is actually requested by Rotax for its motors."

"We're proud to be the Official Racing Fuel of the Red Bull Kart Fight at PRI, Powered by Rotax" said Steve Scheidker, VP's director of marketing.  "This event provides a great opportunity to remind those in the motorsports community of VP's involvement not only in karting, but across all segments of the racing industry.  VP's passion for racing and dedication to research and development is unsurpassed, as illustrated by our nearly 70 blends of fuel for every conceivable racing application and resulting championships." 

VP is the first choice of champions in NHRA Championship Drag Racing, American Le Mans, AMA Motocross and Supercross, Rally America, World of Outlaws Sprint Car and Late Models and many other series and sanctioning bodies. From four company-owned and operated race fuel distribution points in Texas, Indiana, Georgia and Delaware, and a regional sales office in southern California, VP's distribution network now extends throughout North America as well as Europe, Central America, Australia, Russia, the Pacific Rim and the Middle East. Together, VP's distributors support a network of more than 1300 dealers around the world. More information about VP is available online at www.vpracingfuels.com

Past competitors in the kart race at the PRI Trade Show include Indy 500 winners Dan Wheldon and Buddy Rice, Daytona 500 winner Jamie McMurray, current Indy 500 winner as a team owner Bryan Herta, 2011 Indy 500 pole position winner Alex Tagliani, NHRA Funny Car star Ron Capps, Top Fuel star Antron Brown and F1 star Vitantonio Liuzzi.

Young racing stars of tomorrow have competed in the Karters division, including Josef Newgarden, Conor Daly and Joel Miller, now in Indy Lights; Michael Lewis, now in Formula 3 Italia; and Gary Carlton, now a factory pilot in Europe for Zanardi Kart.

The Red Bull Kart Fight at PRI, Powered by Rotax race will be televised later in the year.

Red Bull Kart Fight at PRI, Powered by Rotax race also is being co-sanctioned by the nation's two largest kart racing organizations: WKA and IKF. It is the only kart race to have this sort of unification of the karting segment of the racing industry.

More details, including announcements of this year's participants in the Red Bull Kart Fight at PRI, Powered by Rotax race, will be unveiled on the PRI website: www.performanceracing.com  

For more information, contact Jeff Swoboda at jeffs@performanceracing.com or 949/499-5413.

Star Mazda Hosts Mazda Canada VIP Visit at Mosport

Mosport International Raceway – In addition to putting on what observers called '…the race of the season so far…' Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear drivers Sage Karem (left), Tristan Vautier, JV Horto, Tatiana Calderon, and Gustavo Menezes hosted a group of guests, both Mazda enthusiasts and representatives from Mazda Canada, in the Star Mazda paddock on Saturday, July 23. 

After a meeting at the Star Mazda Championship hospitality area, where they were greeted by Mazda Motorsports Director John Doonan, Star Mazda founder and President Gary Rodrigues and series Marketing Director Mark Rodrigues, the group was given a tour of the Andretti Autosport, JDC Motorsports and Juncos Racing race paddocks.  The drivers gave "walk-arounds" on their race cars, answered questions, and gave guests the chance to sit in their cars.  And of course hundreds of pictures were taken and dozens of autographs signed.

"Our Canadian group of Mazda motorsports participants and enthusiasts enjoyed and highly appreciated the well organized event," said Jason Cuthbertson, team manager of Can-Saf Motorsports.  "Meeting drivers on almost every rung of the Mazda driver development ladder and having them explain the ingredients to their success had us each listening intently.  And Mazda technology was not left out.  We learned about the various powerplants used in the cars competing that weekend and some of the engineering hurdles faced at Mosport, the fastest track on the ALMS calendar.  Our tremendous thanks to Mazda and John Doonan for being hosts that exceeded our expectations."

Mosport was Round 6 of the 11-race, 10-weekend 2011 Star Mazda Championship, and was won by J.V. Horto, a second-season Brazilian racer who scored his first-ever Star Mazda victory on Sunday morning.   The next event on the schedule, also in Canada, is a first-ever double-header with Star Mazda and Indy Lights at the GP3R street circuit in Trois-Rivieres this coming weekend, August 5-7.

"It was really a special opportunity to host so many Mazda racers and enthusiasts, as well as our colleagues from Mazda Canada, at the Mosport event," said Doonan.  "The Star Mazda Championship drivers and teams did an excellent job of talking about their experiences in the series and showing off their rotary-powered race cars.  It was also a chance to see former series Champions – like Guy Cosmo and Joey Hand - who have grown their careers into driving for top level programs in the American Le Mans Series.  We enjoyed having all of these guests with us for the paddock tours and our Saturday dinner.  We are grateful that we have a strong contingent of loyal customers who race Mazdas each and every chance they get.  And, we are extra pleased to have them own and drive a Mazda on the street."

ABOUT MAZDA

On any given weekend, there are more Mazdas on the road-race tracks of America than any other brand of vehicle. At the track, you'll see MX-5 Miata, RX-8, Mazda2, Mazda3, Mazda6, RX-7 and other vintage Mazda models competing, because every Mazda has the Soul of a Sports Car. In fact, the largest road-racing class in the world is Spec Miata, with more than 2,500 first- and second-generation Miatas tearing up America's racetracks, making it the most-raced production car in the world. Mazda's involvement in motorsports extends to its relationship with Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, one of the world's premier road-racing circuits, the Skip Barber Schools for driving and racing, and the Mazda Road to Indy.

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif. and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

For information, contact Dean Case / Communications Officer /MAZDASPEED Motorsports (310) 318-4582 / mazdaspeed@mazdausa.com

About Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear

For 2011, the Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear will be a major part of the Mazda Road to Indy and will feature a 10-weekend, 11-race schedule, all on major race weekends and most with IndyCar.  Two weekends are with the American Le Mans series, and one is a double-header with Indy Lights.  Rising stars from around the world will be watched by more than a million fans as they compete for prizes valued at $1.5 million, including a scholarship to move up and race in the 2012 Firestone Indy Lights series.  Drivers 16 and older are welcome to compete and the Star Mazda Championship also features the Expert Series for drivers 30 and older. The Star Mazda Championship features standing starts, wheel-to-wheel racing at 160 mph and budgets a fraction of other top open-wheel ladder series. For more information on the Star Mazda Championship please visit www.starmazda.com

Air Show Atlantic 100 postponed until Sunday, July 31st

(Halifax, NS. July 29, 2011) –Due to impending weather on Prince Edward Island the Parts for Trucks Pro Stock Tour’s Air Show Atlantic 100 at Oyster Bed Speedway scheduled for Saturday July 30th has been postponed until Sunday, July 31st at 3pm. Atlantic Tiltload Time Trials will begin at 2:10 pm.  Please see revised format below.

Oyster Bed Speedway

Air Show Atlantic 100

July 31, 2011

Gate Opens                        9:30 am               

Pro Stock Tech                  9:30 am

Pro Stock Practice            11:30 am                               

Four Fun Practice             12:00 am

Street Stock Practice      12:15 pm

Pro Stock Practice            12:30 pm        

Four Fun Practice             1:00 pm               

Street Stock Practice      1:10 pm               

Pro Stock Practice            1:20 pm

Track Closes                       1:35 pm                                              

Pro Stock drivers meeting            1:40 pm (Tour trailer)

Atlantic Tiltload Time Trial lineups immediately follow drivers meeting

Atlantic Tiltload Pro Stock Time Trials 2:10 p.m.

Pro Stock Dash Draw

Racing 3:00 p.m.

Fast Eddie Dash For The Pole – 10 laps

Four Fun Heats – 12 laps

Street Stock Heats - 12 laps

Dartmouth Dodge Pro Stock Heats – 10 laps

Four Fun Semi (if required)  – 12 laps

Street Stock Semi (if required)  - 12 laps

Dartmouth Dodge Pro Stock “B” Feature (if required) – 10 or 25 laps

Four Fun Super Series 25 Feature – 25 laps

Street Stock Feature – 25 laps 

Pro Stock Driver Introductions (cars on front straight)

Anthem & Parade Laps

Air Show Atlantic Feature – 100 laps

Race Control Frequency is 463.4250

Format subject to change without notice.

About the Parts for Trucks Pro Stock Tour:

The Parts for Trucks Pro Stock Tour (PFTPST) is the highest level of stock car racing in Canada. The Tour is recognized in the industry as one of the healthiest stock car racing series in North America. PFTPST visits five tracks throughout the Maritimes during its May through September season. The Parts for Trucks Pro Stock Tour is owned and operated by Maritime Pro Stock Tour Limited. For more information, call our administration office at 902.481.2531 or click www.maritimeprostocktour.com

About Air Show Atlantic: 

Air Show Atlantic is the region's largest annual air show and one of the biggest and best in Canada. Formerly the Nova Scotia International Air Show and around since the early eighties; the Show is moving to Prince Edward Island for 2011 and will bring amazing acts to the Summerside Airport August 27-28 this year. Team Chaos - including the 350+ mph Flashfire Jet truck will headline the event and be complimented by Canadian Forces Snowbirds, SkyHawks and CF-18 Hornet Demonstrations. Two full days of family entertainment in the sky and on the ground will cap off the summer season. Go to www.airshowatlantic.ca for full details and reserve preferred seating.

About Oyster Bed Speedway:

Oyster bed Speedway is Prince Edward Island's premier auto racing facility and features fun and excitement with weekly stock car racing special events throughout the season.  The 1/3 mile paved oval is located in Oyster Bed Bridge at the intersection of routes 6 and 7, halfway between Cavendish and Charlottetown on beautiful Prince Edward Island. Phone: (902) 892-6684. Website: www.oysterbedspeedwaypei.com  

TSN: NASCAR Canadian Tire Series A&W 300 from Vernon, BC

The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series A&W Cruisin' the Dub 300 from Vernon, BC's Motoplex Speedway airs on TSN starting Saturday.

OHSWEKEN SPEEDWAY: July 26: Hafertepe wins, Stewart takes third

By Tommy Goudge (July 26, 2011) - A large crowd turned out to see NASCAR star Tony Stewart race at Ohsweken Speedway for the first time on Tuesday night. Tony didn’t disappoint, as he drove to third place after starting fifteenth in the Corr/Pak Merchandising Sprint Car feature.

Texas driver Sam Hafertepe, Jr. stole the show by tracking down Dustin Daggett and driving away to visit Ohsweken’s Engine Pro Racing Winner’s Circle for the first time. Chris Dickie was awarded the Lighthouse Tattoos Thunder Stock win, while Jeremy Hughes won the HRW Automotive Mini Stock race.

CORR/PAK MERCHANDISING SPRINT CARS

Friday Night Thunder regulars Jim Huppunen and Todd Hoddick started on the front row of a star-studded feature field, and Corr/Pak points leader Huppunen opened up an early lead. Action was heated behind him as Dustin Daggett, Justin Barger, and Sam Hafertepe, Jr. asserted themselves in the top five. Daggett got by Huppunen on lap ten, but stayed up front for just three laps before Hafertepe got by.

Daggett tried to keep pace, but dropped out of the race with less than two laps to go due to a broken U-joint. Hafertepe won the non-stop affair in record time, and became the 56th different winner in Ohsweken Sprint Car history. Wayne Johnson drove hard and ended up with the runner-up spot, while Tony Stewart advanced twelve positions to claim 3rd in his Ohsweken debut. Justin Barger and Jim Huppunen rounded out the top five. Mikey Kruchka, Dain Naida, Kyle Moffit, Travis Cunningham, and Jessica Zemken recorded top ten finishes.

"The track was in awesome shape tonight," said Hafertepe. "We could run anywhere across this thing. We really need to thank all these fans for coming out tonight."

The win was extra-special for the Hafertepe team because of local connections on his crew. Daryl Turford is the team's only full-time crew member, while his father Peter also helps out when time allows. Both are from the Stratford, Ontario area.

"This win's for Daryl Turford and Peter Turford," said Hafertepe.

"They've been with this team for a long time, and it feels good to get this for them. I know they raced quite a bit here. To go up and down the road and put up with me is pretty special."

Heat races for the 28 car field went to Jim Huppunen, Kyle Moffit, Sam Hafertepe, Jr., and Todd Hoddick. Mike Stelter’s night ended early when he flipped wildly off the track in hot laps, while Chris Durand had mechanical problems in his heat race.

LIGHTHOUSE TATTOOS THUNDER STOCKS

Rob Murray crossed the line first in the Lighthouse Tattoos Thunder Stock feature, but refused to allow post-race technical inspection of his car and was disqualified. Brad Herron ran down early race leader Cory Turner, and looked to be the driver to beat until his car went up in smoke. Cris Dickie took over the lead, but Murray got by late in the race. Dickie was the beneficiary of Murray’s problems, as he was awarded the win - his first ever in the Thunder Stock division.

Billy Bleich, Jr. had a great run in his return to Ohsweken, starting 23rd and driving through the field to get the runner-up spot. Cory Turner, Phil Nyssen, and Rob Disher rounded out the top 5 in what was a very competitive event with many invaders in the field.

Heat races for the 36 car field went to Turner, Dave Bailey, Larry Czinege, Jr., and Mike Thorne, while James Thompson won the B-Main.

HRW AUTOMOTIVE MINI STOCKS

Jeremy Hughes had his ride repaired after problems in the feature last Friday night, and drove the #10j to the win in the HRW Automotive Mini Stock division. Karl Sault, Kevin Hilborn, Dale Cooke, and Mike Evers chased Hughes to the line. The win was Hughes’ second in his last three races.

Heat races for the 32 car field were claimed by Mike Gilchrist, Mike Taylor, Kevin Hilborn, and Karl Sault, while Abel Castelein won the B-Main.

NEXT UP AT OHSWEKEN

Arrow Express presents the “Six Nations Showdown” on Wednesday, July 27.

The World of Outlaws Sprint Car series will be in action, along with the Mod-Lite Stars Championship Tour North. Gates open at 4:00 with racing starting at 7:45!

COMING SOON

This week’s busy slate will continue with another round of Friday Night Thunder on July 29. August will start with a bang when Ohsweken’s annual Hot Dog Eating Championship takes centre stage along with a full racing card, including the Art Hill Memorial 42 for the HRW Automotive Mini Stock division. Make sure to visit www.OhswekenSpeedway.com for all the information on these special events.

Photo Credits: Peter Anderson – www.pandersonphotos.com

JARRAD WHISSELL BATTLES HARD AT SASKATOON

Calgary, Alberta’s Jarrad Whissell and the #44 SMS Equipment/Komatsu Chevy team came to Auto Clearing Motor Speedway in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan for round number seven of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series to get a better feel for oval track racing after contact ended their night early in the previous race just four days before. Regrettably mechanical issues would fell the team this time out.

Prior to the afternoon practice session Whissell and the #44 SMS Equipment/Komatsu Chevy team felt good about their prospects. “I have to give a lot of credit to the team for working so hard to get us ready for this race” said Whissell. “We had a pretty torn up race car and everyone worked some pretty long days to make the repairs” he added.

With the one hour practice complete Whissell remained in good spirits. “I was pretty happy with the #44 SMS Equipment/Komatsu Chevy’s performance” he stated. “We’ve got a couple of changes planned to help us during the race and I think we’ll be even better”.

Starting from the outside of row seven Whissell began the 250 lap race with the plan to be patient but look for opportunities to move the #44 SMS Equipment/Komatsu Chevy forward. Immediately however he knew something was wrong. “We were down on power right away” explained the driver “and I knew it was serious” he said.

Whissell brought the #44 SMS Equipment/Komatsu Chevy to pit road and the team went to work looking for the problem. What they found ended their night. “It appears as if the head gasket failed and it went downhill from there” shrugged the driver. “We had to stop, if we’d gone back out the motor would have blown. We had a lot of guests here tonight from Husky, one of our sponsors and I wish we had been able to put on a better show for them” he stated.

Jarrad Whissell and the #44 SMS Equipment/Komatsu team will return to action August 5-7 at the Grand Prix of Trois Rivieres in Trois Rivieres, Quebec.

This season Jarrad Whissell will participate in four NASCAR Canadian Tire Series road course events at Mosport Raceway, the Toronto Indy, Grand Prix of Trois Rivieres and the Montreal Nationwide weekend. In addition he will also take part in the two western Canada stops at Motoplex Speedway near Vernon, BC & Auto Clearing Speedway in Saskatoon, SK. Follow the progress of the team and help support the Children’s Miracle Network through the team website www.jarradwhissell.com and fans can make donations by going to the website www.helpmakemiracles.ca and clicking on the racing for kids link. Race fans are invited to follow Whissell on twitter, @jarradwhissell You can watch all of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series races again this year on TSN.

Attached Photo: The #44 SMS Equipment/Komatsu Chevy during practice at Auto Clearing Motor Speedway.

Photo Credit: Todd Lewis

NOEL DOWLER CONTINUES TO RUN STRONG

July 28, 2011. Following a successful run in his first oval track experience, Sherwood Park, Alberta’s Noel Dowler got right back to work in the #5 EMCO Dodge during round number seven of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series at Auto Clearing Motor Speedway in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Wednesday night.

It was easy to see how much smoother and quick Dowler was running the #5 EMCO Dodge at the end of the one hour practice session compared to the beginning. “The car felt good and I got very comfortable” he stated. “It was fun to drive, I thought I’d only done a handful of laps but the team said I had done over 70” he added.

Dowler still needs a little more experience with his qualifying and would start at the back of the field. However shortly after the drop of the green flag he began moving the #5 EMCO Dodge forward. Following the first caution period of the night Dowler would restart the race in thirteenth position and on the next restart was eleventh. “With each lap I’m feeling more and more comfortable in the car” explained Dowler.

Reality would strike later in the race when Dowler was taking the #5 EMCO Dodge around the outside of a slower car. That competitor contacted the rear of Dowler’s machine sending him spinning and another tore the rear bumper off. “It’s all part of the learning process I guess” smiled Dowler.

Following a stop on pit road to remove the dangling body work, Dowler return to the action and the #5 EMCO Dodge was just as quick. When the checkered flag waved they would claim a thirteenth place finish, gaining eight positions from the start of the race. “Overall it was a good night and I have to thank the whole team for working so hard in the last few days getting the car ready. I think we made a lot of progress in the last couple of races and I’m looking forward to getting back in action at Trois Rivieres.

OF NOTE: Noel Dowler and the #5 EMCO Dodge team members were special guests at a company BBQ for hundreds of EMCO employees and customers at the Saskatoon office the day before the race. The #5 EMCO Dodge race car and hauler were on display and Dowler signed autograph cards for those in attendance. The entire team would like to thank all those in attendance for their warm welcome and hospitality.

The next event of the 2011 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series schedule for Noel Dowler takes place August 5-7 at the Grand Prix of Trois Rivieres in Trois Rivieres, Quebec. Dowler will participate in a total of five road and street course events, along with the two oval track races at Motoplex Speedway in Vernon, BC and Auto Clearing Speedway in Saskatoon for a total of seven races. All of the 2011 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series races will be broadcast on TSN. Check local listings for times in your area. For more information about Noel Dowler Jr. log onto www.apollomotorsports.ca

Attached Photo: The #5 EMCO Dodge at Auto Clearing Motor Speedway

Photo Credit: Todd Lewis

OHSWEKEN SPEEDWAY: Tony Stewart wins World of Outlaws race

Thanks to Peter Anderson for sharing shots of Tony Stewart and World of
Outlaws (WoO) and Sprint Car action at Ohsweken Speedway on July 26-27,
2011. Sounds like it was a blast with near capacity crowds on both
nights. Stewart's WoO win brought down the house.
By all accounts, Stewart enjoyed his time and made a lot of people
happy. Certainly better than the last time Stewart raced in Ontario when
the promoter (different track) hired steroid-pumped muscle freaks to
shadow him and the guy spent the day barking at people, "Don't look at
him! ... Don't take his picture!" Forgot about that....
Congratulations to Ohsweken owner Glenn Styres and his team leader Ken
Pelkie on a fantastic couple of nights!

ISABELLE TREMBLAY NOW THE TOP ROOKIE

July 28, 2011. Following a tough outing in her last race, Isabelle Tremblay from St. Hippolyte, Quebec did exactly as she and the team expected. They rebounded with a solid effort in round number seven of the 2011 NASCAR Canadian Tire series at Auto Clearing Motor Speedway in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

The #07 team worked two long days to make repairs and gave Tremblay and very good handling race car. “The whole Dave Jacombs team worked so hard the last few days and did a very good job” said Tremblay. “The car felt good in practice and right through the entire race” she added.

For the entire 250 lap race Tremblay ran lap times that were very consistent. “It was a great accomplishment for the team to have such a steady race, especially with these two races in the west only a few days apart” said Tremblay.

Tremblay’s finish also now moves her up in the standings and she is the top ranked rookie driver. “That was my goal to be the top rookie this year, we are moving closer to accomplishing that goal” she stated.

It was also apparent that Tremblay is earning the respect of her fellow competitors. “I got bumped and spun by another car” explained the driver. “However I did not retaliate, it is important to show that I’m here to race at this very high level and not be the kind of driver that is driving carelessly” she added.

Isabelle Tremblay will be doing double duty in her next racing weekend. In addition to racing the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series event during the Grand Prix of Trois Rivieres August 5-7, Tremblay will also participate in the F1600 race. “All of my family and supporters who cheer me on help me realize my dreams will be at the Grand Prix and I will be racing for them” said Tremblay.

NOTE: Thursday August 4^th Isabelle Tremblay will be making an appearance and the Regional Children’s Hospital in Trois Rivieres with other racers participating in the weekend activities.

During the 2011 racing season Isabelle Tremblay will compete in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, the ANCA Sportsman Series at the Autodrome St. Eustache and the F1600 Series. This kind of large-scale racing program schedule would not be possible without the impressive support of many partners for which Isabelle is extremely grateful. Isabelle Tremblay’s ANCA Sportsman Series efforts are backed by Insulation Ippersiel, Canadian Tire St. Jerome, La Pizzeria Etc and DB Imaging. The NASCAR Canadian Tire series program is made possible with support from Group Beton Brunet and ADF Diesel. Her Formula 1600 Tour receives backing from Furniture World Salotti.

More information about Isabelle Tremblay and her 2011 racing program can be found by going to her website, www.isaracingteam.com

Team Information: info@isaracingteam.com

Photo Included: Isabelle Tremblay practicing at Motoplex Speedway

Photo Credit: Todd Lewis.

Mosport Speedway: Help Feed the Need in Durham this Saturday

The Techtonix Open Wheel Modifieds Highlight Night of Exciting Races On Great Blue Heron Casino Night

(Bowmanville, ON – July 28, 2011)  "Feed The Need In Durham" will be on hand at Mosport Speedway this Saturday night and you can help out by donating canned food items upon entering Canada's fastest half-mile paved oval.

The Techtonix Open-Wheel Modifieds Invitational will be the highlight of the night's racing action.  Mosport Late Model regulars Jim 'The Professor' Rossiter and Darren Kearnan will join the Modifieds field.  This will be the third of five Speedway appearances this season.  In their first night of action at Canada's fastest half-mile paved oval this year, the 2004 champion, Kearnan had a night for the ages, winning both heat contests and the feature race.  Their second appearance was unfortunately rained out.

This Saturday, July 30, The Great Blue Heron Charity Casino will be the night's Corporate Sponsor.  They are located at 21777 Island Road in Port Perry.  For more info, including directions and casino hours go to www.gbhcasino.com.

All three of Mosport's home divisions will be in action, the Pure Stocks, Bob's Towing Sportsman and Late Models.  As with every Saturday night this summer, the Old Dutch Crunch King of the Hill race for spectators will round out a fun-filled evening.

Admissions for adults is just $15, seniors (65+) and youth (13-17) are $10 and as always, children 12 and under are free with a paid adult admission.  For more information and to get your tickets call (905) 983-9141 or visit www.mosport.com/speedway.

For further information: Ryan Chalmers, Mosport

ANOTHER SOLID OUTING FOR BOURQUE IN AARON’S DREAM MACHINE

Saskatoon, SK. (July 28, 2011) NASCAR driver Pierre Bourque completed the western swing of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series in the #00 Aaron’s Dream Machine Dodge with a sparkling run at Auto Clearing Motor Speedway in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. In a hard fought 250 lap race Bourque started seventeenth, ran as high as third in the race and finished the evening in twelfth position.

The Wednesday evening race meant a quick turnaround for the #00 Aaron’s Dream Machine Dodge team. “All of the guys pitched in and did a great job to get ready after our race on Saturday in BC” said Bourque. “During the practice session I tried a number of different racing lines and the car felt very solid wherever I was running on the track” he added.

Bourque would begin the race in the #00 Aaron’s Dream Machine Dodge seventeenth but quickly moved forward. “After the first caution period I restarted the race in eleventh position” described Bourque, we were having a good night” he concluded.

Forty laps later Bourque had pushed the #00 Aaron’s Dream Machine Dodge into the top ten. “I was just trying to be patient and had a very good handling race car. It felt really good to be battling with these great racers” he stated.

When the checkered flag waved Bourque had gained a total of five positions from the start finishing just outside the top ten. “It was a very good race for the #00 Aaron’s Dream Machine Dodge team” described the driver. “The car ran really well, it’s a lot of fun to race on this track in front of a capacity crowd and we’ve built some momentum for our next race. I’m really looking forward to getting to the road course in Trois Rivieres” he stated.

Pierre Bourque is back in action at the Grand Prix of Trois Rivieres August 5-7 in Trois Rivieres, Quebec.

About Aaron's, Inc.: Aaron's, Inc. (NYSE: AAN and AAN.A), the nation's leader in the sales and lease ownership, specialty retailing and rental of residential and office furniture, consumer electronics and home appliances and accessories has more than 1,575 Company-operated and franchised stores in 48 states and Canada. Founded in 1955 by entrepreneur R. Charles Loudermilk, Sr. and headquartered in Atlanta, Aaron's has been publicly traded since 1982. For more information, visit www.shopaarons.com.

About Telus Mobility: Telus is unique in the Canadian market because we now operate three distinct wireless networks: 3G+, 3G (CDMA) and Mike (iDEN). When you choose Telus, you get clear and simple pricing, the latest and greatest devices, an exceptional client experience plus Canada's fastest 3G+ network. More information: http://www.telusmobility.com

About Mahindra USA Farm Equipment Sector

Houston, Texas-based Mahindra USA Farm Equipment Sector is a wholly owned subsidiary of Mahindra & Mahindra LTD, and part of Mahindra & Mahindra's Farm Equipment Sector (FES) - the largest tractor company in the world by volume. Mahindra's professional-grade tractors are built with heavy-duty components that allow them to outperform other tractors in their class and are designed to provide consumers with the ability to push more, pull more and lift more, so they can do more, in less time.

For more information on Pierre Bourque, go to http://www.pierrebourque.com and http://www.twitter.com/pierrebourque

Attached Photo: Pierre Bourque in the #00 Aaron’s Dream Machine Dodge at Auto Clearing Motor Speedway

Photo Credit: Todd Lewis

DELAWARE SPEEDWAY: Set to celebrate 60th Birthday on Friday!

The London & area destination for fast summer fun, Delaware Speedway is getting ready to celebrate its 60th birthday in style this Friday evening (July 29) sponsored by Exeter Toyota.  Fans will be treated to a number of special happenings including:

* Salute to Classic Racers – - drivers who are no longer active and competed prior to 2006 and bring a photo of their vehicle to the track will receive free admission to the race.  The track would appreciate it if drivers can leave their photos with the speedway, however it is not mandatory to do so.  The track is asking for the help of race fans to spread the word about this promotion, as racers from the past may not necessarily be connected to internet media.

* Official opening of the speedway’s history photo gallery, located in the base of the broadcast tower.  Fans and drivers alike will be able to look through time at photos of the past donated to the track’s ongoing history project.

* Classic Car Cruise at 7:00 pm. The event is being organized by a familiar face at local cruise nights, Ken Chaplin (519) 691-0398.  The group will be meeting in the field by the pit entrance starting at 5:00 pm.

* A number of special Delaware history displays including actual race cars that competed at the track in the 50's and 60's.

* A ‘special event’ lineup and a ‘regular event’ price! The lineup features Canadian Vintage Modifieds, FT Garage Late Models, Dynamic Fluid Super Stocks, and a GAW Recycing Enduro 35-lap challenge.  This full of a lineup would normally see an increased admission, but for this night only in celebration of 60 years of racing, entry prices will be frozen at the regular rate.

* Kids Club & Hoppy the Clown: both will be on site prior to the races.

Kids 12 and under are free to the event, adults are $16, seniors and students are $12.  Camping is also free of charge behind the back straight.  Spectator gates for the race open at 6:00 pm, racing starts at 8:00 pm.  Don’t miss out on a very special night at the London & area destination for fast summer fun: Delaware Speedway.

About: Delaware Speedway is a half-mile paved oval stock-car track, located just west of London, Ontario, Canada. For 60 years, Delaware Speedway has been the home to some of the finest stock car racing in Canada. Its unique natural amphitheater-like setting allows a family or group of friends to enjoy an exciting, comfortable and affordable evening or afternoon of entertainment.

Release available online here: http://www.delawarespeedway.com/celebrating-60-years-this-friday

Full schedule here: http://www.delawarespeedway.com/schedule // For more information contact John Houghton (519) 652-5068 Ext 201 or e-mail john@delawarespeedway.com.

From John Houghton / Delaware PR

NCATS @ Saskatoon: Another top 10 finish for Team Mopar

SASKATOON, SK - Ron Beauchamp Jr. and the #60 Mopar Parts/Mobil 1/Exide Batteries Dodge continued to build momentum on the 2011 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series western swing.  During round number seven at Auto Clearing Motor Speedway Beauchamp scored his second straight top ten finish.

Once again the #60 Mopar Parts/Mobil 1/Exide Batteries Dodge showed plenty of horsepower and Beauchamp posted the seventh quickest qualifying time.  “The car was pretty good all day” said Beauchamp.  “We had very consistent laps during practice and came out with a good qualifying lap” he added.

When the green flag waved for the 250 feature event Beauchamp quickly showed the same kind of performance in the last race.  The #60 Mopar Parts/Mobil 1/Exide Batteries Dodge started seventh but soon moved into the top five.  “Everything was going well early on” said Beauchamp.  “Soon after though the car started to tighten up and I had to run a little higher on the track” he added.

Despite being forced to run the higher groove Beauchamp maintained a position inside the top ten with the #60 Mopar Parts/Mobil 1/Exide Batteries Dodge.  “I just had to adjust my approach a little bit. And I knew we’d make adjustments during our pit stop” said the driver.

With the scheduled stop for fuel and tires completed Beauchamp again set his sights on the front of the field.  After a few strong laps once again the #60 Mopar Parts/Mobil 1/Exide Batteries Dodge would become tight and force the driver to adjust his racing line.  This persisted through rest of the race yet Beauchamp was still able to muscle the car home with a seventh place result. 

With back to back top ten finishes and two races in less than a week the #60 Mopar Parts/Mobil 1/Exide Batteries Dodge team is pretty pleased with the results.  “We’ve definitely made some big gains in the last few races” explained the driver.  “This whole team can feel the momentum moving in the right direction and we’re looking forward to getting back in action again” he added.  

Ron Beauchamp Jr. and the #60 Mopar Parts/Mobil 1/Exide Batteries Dodge Team will compete in all twelve races on the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series.  The next event takes place August 5-7 at the Grand Prix of Trois Rivieres in Trois Rivieres, Quebec.  Once again this year all events will be broadcast on TSN.  Fans should check their local listings for times.  For more information about the #60 Mopar Parts/Mobil 1/Exide Batteries team log on to www.beauchampmotorsports.com and www.mopar.ca  For series information check out www.nascar.ca.  

Attached photo:  The #60 Mopar Parts/Mobil 1/Exide Batteries Dodge Challenger during practice at Auto Clearing Motor Speedway // Photo Credit: Todd Lewis // This release prepared by, TL Sports & Entertainment, todd@tlsportsent.com (239) 961-2618

Wickens Embracing Reserve Driver Role

Toronto, Canada (July 28, 2011) – Canada's Robert Wickens has enjoyed a hectic July – kick starting the month with another double-header outing competing for Carlin in the Formula Renault 3.5 Series, part of the 'World Series by Renault' event program, before going on to attend the British and German Grand Prix in his role as a reserve driver with the Marussia Virgin Racing team in Formula One. 

A busy month draws to a close with this weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix, the 11th round of the 2011 Formula One World Championship.  Wickens, who currently sits second in the 2011 Formula Renault 3.5 Series – just four-points off the lead, will again be attending as part of Marussia Virgin Racing.   

The 22-year-old from Toronto took time out prior to heading to Hungary to review his season to-date and his opportunities within Formula One now that he is a reserve driver: 

Q:  With the 'World Series by Renault' enjoying a summer-break, what stands-out from your season to-date? 

Robert Wickens (RW):  "I think there have been a few moments that stand out for me.  Being able to get my first win of the season in Spa was a great feeling while being on the podium in Monaco was pretty good as well.  Nurburgring was very close to a perfect weekend scoring my second win of the year.  I'd also say driving the Lotus Renault GP Formula One car in Budapest was good fun and a great prize for leading the championship at the halfway point." 

Q:  With various routes to Formula One in Europe, how important is success in a series such as Formula Renault 3.5 to validate your open-wheel racing credentials? 

RW:  "This year is extremely important for me.  I've finished second in my last two seasons – in the GP3 Series and F2 respectively, and now I have my foot in the door of Formula One being a reserve driver for MVR (Marussia Virgin Racing).  I feel like I need to prove that I can win a championship again. 

"A series like Formula Renault 3.5 is well regarded and can be traced as being a final step before Formula One.  I've put myself in a good position to win and I just have to run the final six races the way I started off the season!" 

Q:  You were announced as a reserve driver for the Marussia Virgin Racing F1 team in June just prior to the Canadian Grand Prix.  How was the news received in Canada and just what was it like for you attending that race in an official capacity? 

RW:  "Being named as an official reserve driver was a big deal to me.  I've worked my whole career to be in Formula One, being the reserve driver has gotten me that much closer to a race seat.  With the announcement being made prior to the Canadian Grand Prix just made the whole experience that bit more memorable.  The Canadian fans are so enthusiastic for Formula One – it was great to take it all in as a fellow Canadian.  Hopefully next season they can be cheering for a Canadian on track!" 

Q:  You've subsequently attended F1 races in Spain, Great Britain, Germany and now you're heading to Hungary for this weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix.  What's your key function during the course of a race weekend with Marussia Virgin Racing? 

RW:  "Basically I'm just there trying to take in as much information as possible.  I sit in on all the debriefings to listen to what Timo (Glock) and Jerome (D'Ambrosio) have to say about the car.  Being the reserve driver is a huge learning experience for me and I'm just trying to gather as much information as I can to ensure that I'm as prepared as possible incase I do get a chance to drive.  I'm also kept busy with certain non-race obligations such as media appearances and sponsor visits." 

Q:  How closely do you actually work with key team personnel and the race drivers throughout the weekend? 

RW:  "I'm very close to the engineers and directors of the team.  I'm probably even closer with the race drivers.  Both Timo and Jerome have been surprisingly welcoming to me and the whole team has really made me feel at home.  

Q:  Has anything surprised you with regards to the workings of a Formula One team during a race weekend?  With the level of access you now enjoy behind the scenes, how prepared are you for potentially graduating into Formula One? 

RW:  "I think as every weekend passes I'm feeling more and more at home here in Formula One.  At first it was definitely a culture shock, but I'm now confident that if I had to be put in the car during a race weekend I'm now much better prepared than if I had not had these opportunities as a reserve driver.  There's always the opportunity to learn though, so until I get my chance I'll just try to make the most of the opportunity I have in front of me." 

Q:  There have been stories lately of team's interested in resurrecting in-season testing.  For someone in your position, no doubt that would be attractive in potentially allowing seat-time and an opportunity to showcase your ability in Formula One? 

RW:  "Absolutely!  I really hope they can bring back any form of in-season testing.  Any chance you get to drive a Formula One car the better off you'll be as a driver.  These cars are incredible in every way.  The cornering speeds and braking efficiencies are truly amazing and you simply want as much time behind the wheel as you can get!" 

Q:  What are your personal thoughts on this season's Formula One championship?  Are you a fan of the likes of KERS and DRS? 

RW:  "I think KERS is pretty cool.  The idea of it is very interesting and that's why I think it's a good fit for Formula One.  Personally I think that the DRS is a little artificial.  It almost works too well.  When you see an aerial shot of a car passing with DRS the speed difference is crazy.  Sometimes it's almost 20kph difference.  Maybe DRS ended up working better than expected! 

"At the end of the day though, they brought KERS back and DRS to try making more overtaking possibilities and it's done just that.  The best part of 2011 in my opinion has been the Pirelli tires.  It's made more overtaking chances than both KERS and DRS.  It's been putting people on the edge of their seats because some races have gone undecided until that last lap due to different strategies!" 

Robert returns to the Formula Renault 3.5 Series next month with Round 7 taking place at Silverstone in Great Britain, 20th – Sunday 21st August 2011.  For further information on the World Series by Renault please log on to:  www.worldseriesbyrenault.com

 

www.robertwickens.com  / Twitter: @robertwickens

KAWARTHA SPEEDWAY: OSCAAR Brings a 'Super' Show to Fraserville on August 5

Kawartha Speedway’s foundation is built on the strength of its 3 regular classes but when action resumes Friday, August 5th after a 1 week break, the OSCAAR Outlaw Super Late Models will unleash their high octane, ground pounding, adrenaline driven beasts on the popular 3/8th mile oval for the annual running of the Don Biederman Memorial event.  The 75 lapper is part of the first show of a new month and will also feature the NAPA Auto Parts ACT Late Models, Better Carpet Thunder Cars and Hasiuk Trailer and Container Rental Mini Stocks.

A member of the Canadian Motorsports Hall of Fame, Don Biederman was the first Canadian racer to campaign a full season in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (when the tour was known as the NASCAR Grand National Series).  Originally from Port Credit, Ontario, Biederman made history for his legendary battles with fellow hall of famer Junior Hanley. 

Biederman passed away in 1999 and in tribute to his racing prowess; OSCAAR honours his memory with the premier event on their annual schedule.  Although a rookie on the tour, Tyler Hawn would love to add his name to the list of Don Biederman Memorial winners.  The 25 year-old from Oro Station, Ontario – who pilots the #42 Backwoods Maple Syrup/Spark Plug Graphics/Hosking Race Engines/Simpson’s Truck Accessories/Optimum Filters/Gord Belford Haulage/TSS Top Shop Corvette – is thrilled to have his name mentioned in the same context as the Canadian motorsports legend and previous event champions Jeff Hanley, Derrick Tiemersma, John Fletcher and Rob Clarke.

“It’s been a great first year,” said Hawn – a welder at Vandergeest Inc.  “The car hasn’t been perfect, but we’ve been able to try some different things along the way that have helped.  Now that we’re getting to see some of the tracks for a second time around, we’ve been able to work a little deeper on our set-up notes and learn what we need to do to gain an advantage.  Our 6th place run at Mosport helped build some confidence within the team and that’s always a plus.  The Biederman race is OSCAAR’s most prestigious event of the year, so it’s bound to be a pressure cooker.”

The point battles in Kawartha Speedway’s regular divisions are starting to heat-up.  Following Friday, July 22nd’s action, Bryan Mercer is back on top of the NAPA Auto Parts ACT Late Model standings by only 7 points over Dan McHattie.  Dwight Brown is 17 points behind, with Kyle Donaldson 27 back.  Ken Donaldson Jr. leads the Better Carpet Thunder Car chase by 26 points over Willie Reyns.  Chad Strawn is 3rd, 29 points off the pace.  The tightest fight is in the Hasiuk Trailer and Container Rental Mini Stock field, where ‘Too’ Moroney has just a 1 point cushion over Ryan Oosterholt.  Daryl Fice sits 12 points back of the leader.

As always, fans can find the latest track news and the full 2011 schedule at www.kawarthaspeedway.com.

PHOTOS: #1).  Tyler Hawn (#42) is looking for a strong effort when OSCAAR runs the annual Don Biederman Memorial event Friday, August 5th at Kawartha Speedway. // #2).  Defending track champion Willie Reyns hopes to score his first Better Carpet Thunder Car main event win of 2011 when action resumes Friday, August 5th at Kawartha Speedway.

Release and Photos by Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications