NASCAR Canadian Tire Series: Andrew Ranger repeats in Montreal

MONTREAL (Aug. 20, 2011) – Hometown favourite Andrew Ranger dominated the field Saturday at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve for his second checkered flag in four NASCAR Canadian Tire Series starts this year with a second consecutive win in the NAPA AUTOPRO 100.

Ranger, a two-time series champion from Roxton Pond, Que., used the pole position he earned in qualifying Friday to start out front, and that’s where he stayed for the entirety of the 23-lap event. The triumph extended his Canadian Tire Series record for career wins to 14, and marked his third in five all-time events at the 2.709-mile road course.

Of his 14 career victories, 11 have come in road-course events and seven have been earned from the pole. This is the third time Ranger won in Montreal overall - including 2008 - and he became the first driver to lead flag-to-flag since J.R. Fitzpatrick did it in Edmonton on July 25, 2009, a span of 17 races. His other win this year came in Toronto on July 9 in his No. 27 Dodge Dealers of Quebec/PNH Dodge.

Kerry Micks in the No. 02 Dickies/Beyond Digital Imaging Ford crossed the line second for his best career finish in Montreal since winning the series’ inaugural event in 2007. Jason Bowles joined him on the podium after driving the No. 11 Fuel Doctor Dodge to a third-place finish. Jeff Lapcevich and Alex Tagliani rounded out the top five.

J.R. Fitzpatrick, points leader Scott Steckly, John Farano, J.F. Dumoulin and L.P. Dumoulin brought home the top 10.

In the point standings, Steckly increased his lead from 47 points to 84 over D.J. Kennington, who finished 18th, with just three races remaining on the schedule.

The NAPA AUTOPRO 100 can be seen in its entirety on TSN on Sunday, Aug. 21 at midnight and Monday, Aug. 22 at 1:30 p.m. ET. TSN2 will also show the event on Sunday, Aug. 21 at 6:30 p.m.

The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series will return to the track on Sept. 10 at Barrie (Ont.) Speedway for the Wild Wing 300 presented by Independent Electric.

NASCAR CANADIAN TIRE SERIES-NAPA AUTOPRO 100 UNOFFICIAL Results

Saturday At Circuit Gilles Villeneuve

Montreal, Quebec

Lap length: 2.71 miles

(Start position in parentheses)

1. (1) Andrew Ranger, Roxton Pond, Que., Dodge, 23 laps, 62.995 mph.

2. (3) Kerry Micks, Mt. Albert, Ont., Ford, 23.

3. (4) Jason Bowles, Ontario, Calif., Dodge, 23.

4. (10) Jeff Lapcevich, Grimsby, Ont., Dodge, 23.

5. (2) Alex Tagliani, Lachenaie, Que., Dodge, 23.

6. (5) J.R. Fitzpatrick, Ayr, Ont., Chevrolet, 23.

7. (9) Scott Steckly, Milverton, Ont., Dodge, 23.

8. (6) John Farano, Toronto, Ont., Chevrolet, 23.

9. (7) J.F. Dumoulin, Trois-Rivieres, Que., Dodge, 23.

10. (8) L.P. Dumoulin, Trois-Rivieres, Que., Dodge, 23.

11. (13) Trevor Seibert, Williams Lake, B.C., Dodge, 23.

12. (19) Ron Beauchamp, Jr., Windsor, Ont., Dodge, 23.

13. (11) Robin Buck, Campbellville, Ont., Dodge, 23.

14. (16) Don Thomson, Jr., Hamilton, Ont., Dodge, 23.

15. (18) Jason White, Sun Peaks, B.C., Dodge, 23.

16. (26) Dexter Stacey, Kahnawake, Que., Dodge, 23.

17. (25) Donald Theetge, Boischatel, Que., Chevrolet, 23.

18. (12) D.J. Kennington, St. Thomas, Ont., Dodge, 23.

19. (17) Elie Arseneau, Laval, Que., Chevrolet, 23.

20. (28) Noel Dowler, Sherwood Park, Alta., Dodge, 23.

21. (29) Martin Roy, Napierville, Que., Dodge, 23.

22. (23) Dave Connelly, Arnprior, Ont., Dodge, 23.

23. (15) Mark Dilley, Barrie, Ont., Dodge, 23.

24. (36) Sebastien Dussault, Vaudreuil-Dorion, Que., Dodge, 23.

25. (30) Derek White, Kahnawake, Que., Chevrolet, 23.

26. (34) Michel Pilon, Blainville, Que., Chevrolet, 23.

27. (33) David Thorndyke, Oshawa, Ont., Chevrolet, 23.

28. (21) Patrice Brisebois, West Mount, Que., Dodge, 23.

29. (31) Isabelle Tremblay, St. Hippolyte, Que., Ford, 20.

30. (32) Hugo Vannini, Repentigny, Que., Ford, 19.

31. (37) Joey McColm, Ajax, Ont., Dodge, 19.

32. (22) Jason Hathaway, Appin, Ont., Dodge, 18.

33. (14) Peter Klutt, Halton Hills, Ont., Chevrolet, 14, steering.

34. (24) Jarrad Whissell, Calgary, Alta., Ford, 13, accident.

35. (27) Steve Mathews, New Liskeard, Ont., Ford, 9, electrical.

36. (35) Ray Courtemanche, Jr., Montreal, Que., Dodge, 4, suspension.

37. (20) Howie Scannell, Jr., Milton, Ont., Dodge, 1, transmission.

Race Statistics

Time of Race: 0 hours 59 minutes 22 seconds

Margin of Victory: 2.734 seconds

Fastest Qualifier: A.Ranger (93.003 mph, 104.9 seconds)

Caution Flags: 2 for 8 laps.

Lead Changes: 0 among 1 drivers.

Lap Leaders: A. Ranger 1-23.

Standings: 1. S. Steckly, 1464; 2. D. Kennington, 1380; 3. J. Fitzpatrick, 1306; 4. D. Thomson,Jr., 1298; 5. K. Micks, 1269; 6. R. Beauchamp,Jr., 1199; 7. M. Dilley, 1157; 8. J. White, 1133; 9. D. Stacey, 1030; 10. J. Hathaway, 1029.

From Shon Sbarra, NASCAR Integrated Marketing Communications

Photo by Matthew J.P. Murnaghan/NASCAR

FR3.5: Canadian Robert Wickens wins at Silverstone

Robert Wickens took a superb race victory at Silverstone this afternoon in the British round of the Formula Renault 3.5 Series. The Marussia backed driver took a lights to flag victory from pole position, despite coming under intense pressure throughout the race. Team mate Jean-Eric Vergne endured opposite fortunes when he was unable to get his Red Bull liveried car into gear on the grid. The Frenchman stormed back up to 13th having started the race from the pit lane.

The drama unfolded before the lights even went out in round 12 of the FR3.5 season today. Lining up on eighth, Vergne could not put his car in gear and had to be pushed off the grid. In the pit lane, Vergne was able to engage gear but would now face the prospect of starting from the pit lane and joining the back of the field.

As the lights went out, Wickens made a good start to lead the field into the first corner, as a frustrated Vergne waited patiently before being released from the pit lane exit. 

With Vergne already catching the back of the field, team mate Wickens was pushing hard to maintain his lead, almost running off track at turn 11 on lap two. The Carlin driver was able to keep the lead however, and settled into a steady rhythm, with the gap back to second placed man Alexander Rossi a close six tenths of a second. 

Vergne meanwhile was at the start of a race long battle through the field and had already made up seven places by lap five. Wickens was maintaining the gap to Rossi, who was now eight tenths behind, with F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo also a close third. 

As the racing action continued, Vergne was averaging one overtaking move a lap, and by lap seven was already 17th and was chasing down Jan Charouz for 16th. Vergne kept the Czech driver under pressure for several corners, before finding a way past around the outside of Club on lap 10. 

By the middle of the race, Wickens suddenly found himself under greater pressure from Rossi, who had closed the gap back down to half a second. Vergne was continuing his overtaking masterclass and was now 14th, having passed Daniel Zampieri, and Daniil Move. 

Wickens suddenly gained a welcome reprieve when a fight between Rossi and Ricciardo allowed him some breathing space. After a close battle, Ricciardo finally passed Rossi for second and set off in pursuit of Wickens, who was by now 3.5 seconds ahead. 

Ricciardo was clearly quick and set the fastest lap of the race on the penultimate lap. It wasn’t enough to catch Wickens though, who went on to take his third victory of the season. Vergne continued his fight towards the top ten until the final corner, with a serious attack on Jake Rosenzweig for 12th just before the line. The Carlin man couldn’t find a way through however, and took the chequered flag in 13th place.

Reflecting on his race win, Wickens said, “I knew it was tough to overtake at this circuit so I was very focused on making a good start. I certainly didn’t make it easy for myself; although I had a decent start I nearly went off on the second lap as I think I was pushing too hard. I calmed down a little bit and focused on not making any mistakes.  

“I was quite relieved when Daniel [Ricciardo] and Alexander [Rossi] started fighting as that gave me a bit of space. Carlin gave me a really good car; it was consistently quick throughout the race, so I’m happy we were able to get a win at the team’s home event.”

From Stephanie Tindall / Carlin

CCTCC: Attrell and Hebert win in Montreal

Toronto, August 20th 2011 – It was an exciting day for Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship presented by Continental Tire (CTCC) competitors as they were competing in Round 13 at the NAPA Auto Parts 200 presented by Dodge. On the starting grid of the famed Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, Pole position was held by St. Leonard d'Aston driver Marc-Antoine Camirand in his BMW Z3 with a best lap time of 1:51.796.

Camirand was followed by Brampton drivers Sasha Anis in his Hyundai Genesis Coupe and his teammate Bob Attrell in third in a Hyundai Genesis Coupe. The fourth and fifth grid positions were held by Montreal drivers Etienne Borgeat in a Pontiac Solstice and Nick Wittmer in his Honda Civic Si. Also in the field, Marc-André Bergeron from Trois-Rivières was driving his Mazda RX8 starting at the 28th position and Simon Dion-Viens from St. Joseph de Kamouraska was driving a BMW 328 from 8Legs Racing, starting at the 11th.

As the race started, Dion-Viens had to pull off on the first lap and had to retire from the race due to mechanical problems. A few laps later, the leader in Super Class points, King City driver Richard Boake pulled off in the last corner with a blown engine. Sure enough, this misfortune has cost him his first place in the Championship, for the time being with only two Rounds left this season. St. Anne des Lacs driver, Mathieu Audette also blew his engine unexpectedly early in the race.

Camirand was leading the field for quite a while, followed very closely by Anis. Both drivers were battling for the win, but close to the end, Camirand experienced mechanical problems which melted some wires and caused him to stop. Anis also experienced mechanical problems. At the same time, Ottawa driver Alex Healy blew the motor in his Acura RSX.

Super Class

That left Nick Wittmer in the lead in his Honda Civic Si followed by Bob Attrell. After a few laps Wittmer`s engine blew handing the lead and win to Attrell. Scott Nicol from Barrie, Ontario managed to climb from the tenth position to end in second place in a Honda Civic Si. Nicol was returning to CTCC racing for the first time after several years of absence. Borgeat got the third position, now placing him in first place of the Championship.

"Montreal is my hometown and whenever I have the chance, I come on this track to ride my bike, it paid back", pleasantly said Borgeat. "All season long, I kept the pace, finishing the races and cumulating points, now I pushed Boake from the first place and I did that here at home and I am very happy about that!"

Post race analysis showed that the race was run past its 30 minute time limit and that Nick Wittmer had finished in first. Unfortunately he was later disqualified for a technical procedure infraction. Best lap time was made by Marc-Antoine Camirand with 1:52.99.

Touring Class

While the Super Class cars were having a tough race and multiple mechanical surprises, the Touring Class vehicles were handling the circuit Gilles-Villeneuve pretty nicely. Fortunately, no incidents were encountered by any of the cars. As a matter of fact most of the drivers were lapping within two seconds of each other.

At the checkered flag, Trois-Rivières driver Jocelyn Hébert took the victory in front of teammates Tom Kwok and Gary Kwok who respectively finished in second and third positions in their Honda Civic Si. Those three drivers battled a very nice and clean race.

"After Jocelyn passed me, I tried to come back and passed him again and I could not reach him" declared Tom Kwok. "Even though I tried during all race, I just couldn't get to him because he was too fast."

Unfortunately two drivers did not participate in the race because of engine problems: MINI driver Alain Lauzière from Vaudreuil-Dorion and Trois-Rivières driver Jacques Deshaies in his Mazda 3 Sport.  Best lap time was made by Jocelyn Hébert with 1:58.245.

To get the complete result of Round Thirteen, visit www.touringcar.ca. You can also follow CTCC on Facebook and Twitter.

The Championship's final Rounds 14th and 15th will take place on September 9 to 11 at Circuit ICAR during the Continental Sundown Enduro.

About CTCC: The Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship presented by Continental Tire is Canada's only professional road racing series. Now in its fifth year, CTCC showcases race cars based on their stock street version. In 2011, CTCC will be featured at Circuit ICAR, Mosport International Raceway, Honda Indy Toronto, Circuit Gilles Villeneuve and Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières.

Experience the rush of touring car racing!

From Dominique Longval / Director of Marketing // Photo: Paolo Pedicelli

Lapcevich to start 10th in NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Montreal event Saturday; Grimsby racer overcomes penalty with solid qualifying effort

August 19, 2011, GRIMSBY, ON – Jeff Lapcevich qualified his Tim Horton’s-sponsored #23 Dodge 10th for Saturday’s Autopro 100 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series race in Montreal. Normally a 10th place qualifying result wouldn’t be reason to celebrate, but Lapcevich is satisfied with the effort.
“We were only given one lap of qualifying by NASCAR,” explained Lapcevich. “I ran extra laps in practice after a miscommunication with my team, and the penalty was that we were only allowed one lap of qualifying.”
While some drivers ahead of Lapcevich used as many as 9 laps on the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve to earn their best time, Lapcevich secured his position with his lone opportunity.
“I was pretty worried about getting a good lap,” said Lapcevich. “Normally the second or third lap is the fastest, and with 17 other cars on the track you never know if you’ll encounter traffic or not. I’m pretty pleased.”
A record-breaking 37 cars qualified for tomorrow morning’s NASCAR Canadian Tire Series race which will be run at 9:30 a.m. and broadcast nationally on TSN immediately prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup race from Michigan.
For more information on Jeff Lapcevich and Fastline Motorsports visit the newly redesigned www.LapcevichRacing.com.
- 30 –


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Adam Ross
Fastline Motorsports PR
adamrossenterprises@gmail.com
519-212-8632

PNH Solutions drivers fill front row in Montreal; Ranger and Tagliani will lead NASCAR Canadian Tire Series field to green in Saturday’s Autopro 100

August 19, MONTREAL, PQ – The PNH Solutions drivers Andrew Ranger and Alex Tagliani qualified first and second Friday afternoon at the famed Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal. The popular Quebec duo will lead the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series’ largest field ever to the green flag in Saturday’s Autopro 100.
“We’re ecstatic with today’s results,” said PNH Solutions Vice-President Court Armstrong. “We knew we would be fast in Montreal, but it will be rewarding to see our drivers race into turn one side-by-side.”
PNH Solutions announced this spring it would partner with Dave Jacombs Racing. A major component in the marketing partnership the spectacular digital wraps on the cars provided by PNH. Another major factor in the decision to work with Ranger and Tagliani is PNH’s main office being located very near the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.
“We wrapped Ranger’s 27 car with his Dodge Dealers of Quebec sponsorship along with our PNH branding,” said Armstrong. “Tagliani’s number 12 Hot Wheels wrap is one of ours as well. Both cars came out looking fantastic.”
The race will be contested at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, and it will air on TSN immediately prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup race in Michigan. .
PNH serves its growing market with locations in Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, and New York. For more information on PNH Innovations visit www.pnh.ca.
- 30 -


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Court Armstrong
Vice-President, Business Development
PNH Innovations
Tel: (416) 587-2723
Email: court@pnh.ca

NASCAR Canadian Tire Series: Record setting pole run for Ranger

MONTREAL (Aug. 19, 2011) – Andrew Ranger made a little effort go a long way as he set the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series qualifying record at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in qualifying Friday for the NAPA AUTOPRO 100.

From Roxton Pond, Que., the Montreal crowd favorite Ranger turned just two laps during the qualifying session and one of those took the Keystone Light Pole Award with a record-setting lap of 1:44.900 (92.969 mph). It was Ranger’s second pole in a row, and 11th of his career overall, which tied Don Thomson Jr. for the Canadian Tire Series career lead.

Ranger is a two-time winner in Montreal, in 2007 and 2010. He has one win in three previous starts this year.

Ranger's No. 27 Dodge Dealers of Quebec/PNH Dodge was fastest in the second of two groups to qualifying – road race style – Friday, but Alex Tagliani led the first group at 1:45.841 (92.142) and will start on the outside pole for Saturday’s event. Kerry Micks (1:45.985/92.017), Jason Bowles (1:46.167/91.859) and J.R. Fitzpatrick (1:46.517/91.557) rounded out the top-five qualifiers

Rookie John Farano, J.F. Dumoulin, L.P. Dumoulin, points leader Scott Steckly and Jeff Lapcevich brought home the top 10 fastest cars in qualifying at the 2.709-mile road course.

Green flag for the NAPA AUTOPRO 100 is scheduled for Saturday at 9:30 a.m. ET. The race will be carried live in Quebec on RDS and will air in its entirety on TSN in Canada at 12:30 p.m.

Qualifying Results

NASCAR CANADIAN TIRE SERIES - NAPA AUTOPRO 100 Qualifying Results

Race Saturday; Qualifying Friday

at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve

Montreal, Quebec

Lap Length: 2.71 miles

1. (27) Andrew Ranger, Roxton Pond, Que., Dodge, 93.003

2. (12) Alex Tagliani, Lachenaie, Que., Dodge, 92.176

3. (02) Kerry Micks, Mt. Albert, Ont., Ford, 92.051

4. (11) Jason Bowles, Ontario, Calif., Dodge, 91.893

5. (84) J.R. Fitzpatrick, Ayr, Ont., Chevrolet, 91.591

6. (59) John Farano, Toronto, Ont., Chevrolet, 90.886

7. (04) J.F. Dumoulin, Trois-Rivieres, Que., Dodge, 90.871

8. (47) L.P. Dumoulin, Trois-Rivieres, Que., Dodge, 90.828

9. (22) Scott Steckly, Milverton, Ont., Dodge, 90.770

10. (23) Jeff Lapcevich, Grimsby, Ont., Dodge, 90.705

11. (66) Robin Buck, Campbellville, Ont., Dodge, 90.556

12. (17) D.J. Kennington, St. Thomas, Ont., Dodge, 90.519

13. (69) Trevor Seibert, Williams Lake, B.C., Dodge, 90.341

14. (42) Peter Klutt, Halton Hills, Ont., Chevrolet, 90.177

15. (9) Mark Dilley, Barrie, Ont., Dodge, 90.153

16. (8) Don Thomson, Jr., Hamilton, Ont., Dodge, 90.096

17. (03) Elie Arseneau, Laval, Que., Chevrolet, 89.943

18. (21) Jason White, Sun Peaks, B.C., Dodge, 89.661

19. (60) Ron Beauchamp, Jr., Windsor, Ont., Dodge, 89.455

20. (56) Howie Scannell, Jr., Milton, Ont., Dodge, 89.445

21. (71) Patrice Brisebois, West Mount, Que., Dodge, 89.340

22. (3) Jason Hathaway, Appin, Ont., Dodge, 88.870

23. (82) Dave Connelly, Arnprior, Ont., Dodge, 88.530

24. (44) Jarrad Whissell, Calgary, Alta., Ford, 88.406

25. (80) Donald Theetge, Boischatel, Que., Chevrolet, 88.285

26. (55) Dexter Stacey, Kahnawake, Que., Dodge, 88.279

27. (15) Steve Mathews, New Liskeard, Ont., Ford, 88.068

28. (5) Noel Dowler, Sherwood Park, Alta., Dodge, 88.067

29. (90) Martin Roy, Napierville, Que., Dodge, 87.789

30. (99) Derek White, Kahnawake, Que., Chevrolet, 87.318

31. (85) Michel Pilon, Blainville, Que., Chevrolet, 86.856

32. (97) Hugo Vannini, Repentigny, Que., Ford, 86.571

33. (29) Ray Courtemanche, Jr., Montreal, Que., Dodge, 86.566

34. (07) Isabelle Tremblay, St. Hippolyte, Que., Ford, 86.064

35. (96) Sebastien Dussault, Vaudreuil-Dorion, Que., Dodge, 85.377

36. (67) David Thorndyke, Oshawa, Ont., Chevrolet, 84.913

37. (50) Tomy Drissi, Hollywood, Calif., Dodge, 84.318

From Shon Sbarra, NASCAR Integrated Marketing Communications

NASCAR: Jimmie Johnson's comments on NASCAR racing in Canada

YOU MENTIONED RACING IN CANADA, IS THERE ANY PLACE SPECIFICALLY YOU HAVE IN MIND? WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE A ROAD COURSE RACE IN THE CHASE?

JJ: “My perspective on heading north and into Canada to race is from a fan hunger standpoint. We have a huge racing audience in Canada. The Canadian fans travel to Michigan; to Loudon even further south to come see our sport and their presence is felt. We sing their National Anthem at certain race tracks for a reason. I think it is an untapped market of sorts in an area where we can see some growth. Get more eyeballs at the race track and more eyeballs on television and in an area we should really consider moving to. It is easy from my seat because I don’t own a track and I don’t have to worry about the schedule and where a date should go. But, I would think there is some weight in that angle and that thought process. If it happens, I have no clue, but that is really the driving force behind it due to a large fan base and some great circuits up there. I love road course racing and think we could put on a good show at a few of the road courses up there.

 

“As far as in the Chase, again, it boils down to personal preference. I enjoy road course racing. I love the discipline about it and I think it would make things very exciting in the Chase. When you look at wild card races and the lack of control you have at Talladega, I see road course racing where…I’ve seen some dispute about it is not what we do all the time and that maybe it’s not fair. It’s out of the driver’s hands. I feel more in control at a road course race than I ever would and will at a restrictor plate race. That’s kind of my rebuttal to that discussion and from my own personal preference; I would like to see one. But, again, there are a lot of other factors that go into it and I’m not sure it will happen.”

 

QUESTION INAUDIBLE, NO MICROPHONE:

JJ:  “No., just the stuff I’ve seen with the Nationwide (Series) and F1 in Montreal. Mosport. I don’t know if Mosport would work, but, I guess first and foremost, I think a Montreal with the F1 presence and the Nationwide presence already being there, the infrastructure is kind of built from a fan perspective I am sure companies in the area, from a title sponsorship standpoint for the event., TV packages…everything is kind of there and we could really capitalize on it.”

Lincoln Electric Presents TLC Star Chip Foose

Cleveland –The Lincoln Electric Company, the exclusive and official welding partner of the 2nd Annual IX Piston Power Show, presents a special appearance by auto designer Chip Foose. Foose is the owner of Foose Design, a three-time top hot rod Ridler Award winner and star of the hit TV show, Overhaulin', airing on TLC Network. Chip is also an avid Lincoln Electric equipment user and has designed graphics for the Company's VIKING™ auto-darkening welding helmets.

Foose will appear on the main stage on Saturday, Oct. 1, 2011 at 2 p.m., during the I-X Piston Power Show at Cleveland's I-X Center. He will also participate in a "Chip's Choice" competition, selecting his favorite pick of vehicles at the show. 

As the exclusive and official welding partner of the show, Lincoln Electric will showcase its products designed for the consumer/hobbyist market at its own booth and during special how-to demonstrations throughout the event. Lincoln Electric will offer special reduced prices for orders placed during the I-X Piston Power Show. 

Dubbed a "Celebration of Speed," this motorsports extravaganza fills the massive I-X Center with various specialty vehicles, including custom and classic cars, motorcycles, power boats and historic aircraft. The show is billed as the "largest indoor showcase of cars in Ohio under one roof." 

To speak with a Lincoln Electric welding expert about your latest project, ask welding how-to questions, or purchase the latest welding equipment, visit the Lincoln Electric booth throughout the show. Show hours are Friday, 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

The I-X Center is located at One I-X Center Drive in Cleveland on Route 237, adjacent to the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. It is easily accessible from I-480, I-71 and the Ohio Turnpike. 

For more information on Lincoln Electric, visit www.lincolnelectric.com  

For more information on the 2nd Annual I-X Piston Power Show, visit www.pistonpowershow.com . 

The Lincoln Electric Company, headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, is the world leader in the design, development and manufacture of arc welding products, robotic arc welding systems, welding fume control systems, plasma and oxyfuel cutting equipment and has a leading global position in the brazing and soldering alloys market. 

Wickens sets the pace at Silverstone

Carlin’s Robert Wickens was pace setter today, at the start of his team’s home event in the Formula Renault 3.5 Series at Silverstone. Wickens, who is currently second in the drivers’ championship set the quickest time in the afternoon session, while team mate and championship leader Jean-Eric Vergne was fifth quickest overall having looked competitive all day.  

Vergne was on the pace from the outset this morning, as track action got underway under sunny skies at the Northamptonshire circuit. The reining F3 champion looked strong immediately; setting the quickest time early on in this morning’s first free practice. Verge’s effort was later bettered by a handful of drivers as track conditions improved, but the Frenchman remained on the pace throughout.  

Two red flag periods interrupted the first session, both of which seemed to compromise Wickens’ quick runs. The Marussia Virgin Racing reserve driver tried various set up changes throughout the 1 hour and 15 minute session but struggled with an apparent lack of power on Silverstone’s long straights.    

In the final ten minutes of the session various drivers made improvements but Vergne was again on the pace and went quickest. Alexander Rossi was the only driver to better Vergne’s time at the chequered flag.  

The afternoon stayed dry for the second practice session of the day. Having uncovered a throttle sensor problem as the cause of his slow pace in the first practice session, Wickens was keen to show his true potential this afternoon. The Canadian was immediately quicker and was again running amongst the front runners. 

Meanwhile Vergne was confirming his competitive pace and was quickest overall with just 20 minutes of the session to go. Returning to the track on his final new set of tyres of the day, Vergne was at the start of a quick run, when the first red flag of the session appeared following a crash for Charles Pic.  

Wickens soon joined his team mate at the top of the time sheets to go P2, only to go quicker the next time round and snatch P1 from Vergne who had already used the optimum of his new tyres. Wickens’ time could not be beaten, while the second red flag of the session ended the session two minutes early.  

Still keen to push more for, Wickens said after second practice; “I’m happier, but I wouldn’t say I’m completely happy yet! Obviously It’s been a positive day overall. I knew we had a good car this morning as the set up felt great and through the corners Jean-Eric and I were pretty evenly matched. I was just losing lots of time on the straights – to the extent that it was clear that there was a problem. Now that’s been fixed the car feels good but there’s still room to improve further for qualifying.” 

Team mate Vergne added, “It’s a little frustrating as I managed just one lap on my new tyres this afternoon before the red flag came out, and then it was difficult to get the best out of the tyres. But the car felt good all day and I think with a little more work we will have a good car tomorrow.”  

Qualifying for the first race of the weekend will take place at 09.00 local time tomorrow.

Stayner Racecar Driver Leads the Championship

Stayner ON: Ratchet Racing's Scott Tapley heads into the second half of the GT Challenge Series with a healthy lead in the Championship.  Heading into the second half of the season, the Stayner Ontario resident hopes to extend his championship lead in the GT 3 class of the Paragon Competition GT Challenge Series presented by Toyo Tires. 

The Paragon Competition GT Challenge series is a regional road race series pitting 5 different classes of cars against each other vying for the overall win and class wins in this highly competitive series. Up to 45 various makes of prepared race cars from manufacturers such as Porsche, Honda, Subaru, GM, Ford, Panoz, and tube frame race cars race door to door in races varying in time from 1 to 3 hour endurance races. The combination of speeds, multiple classes of cars, and the endurance race format makes the Paragon Competition GT Challenge Series one of the most exciting and highly competitive series that the Canadian Automobile Sports Car Clubs has to offer.  

After throwing a multitude of set up changes for the flat and technical Shannonville Motor Sports Park double header round, the #78 Ratchet Racing, Arctic Snowplows, Jerry’s Auto body, Stayner Travel Trailer Chevy Silverado came away with two class victories and pulled into the GT 3 Championship lead. The team now prepares for the return to their “home” track, the very fast and historic Mosport International Raceway for the final races of the season September 3, September 17, and October 1st.  “While the competition is tough, I think we are in the position to challenge for the overall win” says driver Scott Tapley. Tapley is also setting his sights on an overall win in the Annual War Bonnet 3 Hour Endurance Race on September 17th.  The 3 hour race will test the team’s patience and strategy as they will need to pit for fuel and possibly tires while trying to ensure they stay at the front of the pack.  

At the beginning of the season Tapley said his goal was “to be on the podium at the year end banquet”. Now entering the final half of the season, due to the team’s preparation, confidence and Tapley’s smooth driving, a championship for the #78 Ratchet Racing, Arctic Snowplows, Jerry’s Auto body, Stayner Travel Trailer Chevy Silverado may be a reality.  

The final rounds of Paragon Competition GT Challenge Series presented by Toyo Tires:

Saturday September 3rd – 1 hour race – Mosport International Raceway

Saturday September 17th – 3 hour War Bonnet Enduro – Mosport International Raceway (double point’s race)

Saturday October 1st – 1 hour race – Celebration of Motor sport – Mosport International Raceway  

Free weekend tickets are available at http://www.casc.on.ca/roadracing/complimentary-race-event-tickets

Ontario Topless Sprints set to take the green at Humberstone

All the hard work behind the scenes organizing the first ever race in the Ontario Topless Sprint is about to pay off as the series debuts next Friday night, August 26th at Humberstone Speedway in Port Colborne, Ontario.  Sprint cars from Ontario, Quebec, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan and beyond are expected to fill the pit area for this exciting event.

Club organizer Ken Bayliss has been hard at work securing sponsorship for this event that will be more then just a racing event, but also include a trade show and networking events for our marketing partners. 

“We have been hard at work putting this event together, and we are very excited about debuting the Ontario Topless Sprints at Humberstone Speedway”, says series organizer Ken Bayliss.  “We are hoping to get 20 Sprints here, and we believe that is a very realistic goal for us for the first event.  Hopefully we have good weather, and a good turnout, and we can build this into a multi-race series next season”.

The mission of Ontario Topless Sprints is to provide exciting family entertainment while building long-term successful relationships with all of our marketing partners. Ontario Topless Sprints would also like to grow as an event that is beneficial for all involved and to bring affordable wingless Sprint Car Racing to the forefront of Canadian and American motorsports.

The Ontario Topless Sprints is a new and exciting racing event.  Ontario Topless Sprints is the one and only Sprint Car event in Ontario where Sprint Cars race without wings. Fans/Consumers will experience very fast, close and exciting racing at this entertaining event. 

For our Marketing Partners/Sponsors, OTS is their entry into new markets and consumers; as well as a way to reinforce links to existing customers. Another advantage to our partners is that they can reward staff and entertain key trade clients in a highly charged, exciting and entertaining atmosphere.

Ontario Topless Sprints would like to thank Giant FM Classic Rock 91.7FM, Traffic & Court Services, Finish Line Web Design, OTR Filters, Traffic & Court Services, E-Shine.ca, Mohawk Duct Cleaning Services, Lou’s Tire Service, Niagara Inflatables & Games, CARSTAR, Great Signs & Graphics, Garden City Environmental, Xtreme Custom Exhaust, Tapp’s Water Treatment, Pit Stop Automotive, Castle Racing Team, Fabulous Boutique and Day Spa, Kear’s Speed Shop, King Racing Products, BR Motorsports, Outerwears Performance Products and Pancho’s Racing Products  for coming on board with OTS as we embark on this inaugural journey. 

For more information on this exciting form of motorsports, please visit Ontario Topless Sprints on the web at www.ontariotoplesssprints.com.  You will find information on the event including rules, driver entry list when available, and our great sponsors and affiliates that are on board with us to date.

From Craig Revelle / Finish Line Web Design

Auto Clearing Motor Speedway: August 20 event preview

SASKATOON, SK - This weekend, Saturday, August 20th at Auto Clearing Motor Speedway in Saskatoon, stock car fans are in for a treat. The #24, Super Late Model driver, Cameron Hayley, will be racing in the BlackSun 150 Dakota Dunes Casino Western Canadian Super Late Model Championship Series.

This past weekend Cameron set the record for NASCAR for being the youngest driver to stand on the podium, in the K&N Pro West Series at the Montana Raceway Park. The 15 year old, from Priddis, Alberta, will be wanting to improve his points position, and to win the 150 lap feature race.

Tickets for the BlackSun 150 can be purchased at any Mac’s Store in Saskatoon or Prince Albert – racing starts at 5 PM and the front gates open at 3:30 PM.

From Herm Hordal / ACMS

Ontario DIRT Late Models visits Cornwall Motor Speedway this Sunday night

CORNWALL, ON - The Cornwall Motor Speedway will be the host of the Ontario DIRT Late Models this Sunday night as this spectacular series will in Eastern Ontario for the weekend. The Modifieds, Pro-Stock, Semi-Pro with 2 features including a 25-lap event and the Mini-Stock will also be on the racing card.

Greg Oakes is the current leader in the ODLM championship in front of his long time rival Chris Ross, only 3 points separates both drivers, the 2011 champion will be crowned at Cornwall after the 35-lap event. The first 2 races attracted an average of 25 cars; the same field is expected this Sunday at Cornwall.

The Modifieds will again have an epic 30-lap battle in order to gain points for the coveted championship title. Stéphane Lafrance is the leader with 24 points more than Carey Terrance; both drivers had completely different results this past Sunday, giving Lafrance some breathing space in the lead. Points are still really close between Terrance and Laurent Ladouceur in fifth as 18 points are separating Terrance, Joel Doiron, Tim O’Brien and Ladouceur.

After a week off, the Pro-Stock class will be back with an action packed 20-lap race. Joey Ladouceur continues to lead the way with a 66 points edge over Corey Wheeler and 108 points on Dave Bissonnette in third.

The Semi-Pro class will be very busy as they will start the evening with the postponed 25-lap feature from last week; a 15-lap event is also on the schedule. Kevin Fetterly has whopping 118-point lead over rookie Michael McCargar. The points are really tight for the rest of the top 5 with only 8 points separating everyone.

At the start of the season, Ernie Cree had built himself a sizeable lead in the Mini-Stock championship, since then, this lead has melted as he only has 12 points over Mike Gaucher who has been one of the top guys lately in this category. With 2 points night left, each 12-lap event will be important

Again another great night of racing at the Cornwall Motor Speedway as the points battle are really entertaining.

For more information on following events, results, photos and other useful information, we invite you to consult the website at www.cornwallspeedway.com.

NASCAR: Ambrose adds name to short list of international Cup winners... including Canadian Earl Ross

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Aug. 17, 2011) — Last Monday at Watkins Glen, as morning rolled into afternoon, Marcos Ambrose placed his name on a rather exclusive list, that of international winners.

With the victory, the Aussie joined Italy’s Mario Andretti, Canada’s Earl Ross and Colombia’s Juan Pablo Montoya as the only drivers born outside of the United States to have won a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race.

Ambrose, a native of Launceston, Tasmania, Australia, won in his 105th series start, driving his Richard Petty Motorsports Ford to the lead on the race’s final restart. The victory was redemption for the 34-year-old two-time Australian V8 Super Car champion, whose error cost him a probable win at Infineon Raceway in 2010.

Ambrose in 2006 walked away from a lucrative racing career “Down Under” to compete in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. He won three consecutive NASCAR Nationwide Series races at Watkins Glen International and joined Richard Petty Motorsports prior to the 2011 season.

A detailed rundown of the three other drivers on the short list, and how they reached Victory Lane:

Mario Andretti, a native of Italy and future Indianapolis 500 and Formula One World Champion, won the 1967 Daytona 500 in dominant fashion, leading 112 of 200 laps in a Ford out of the famed Holman-Moody stable. Andretti drove the race in a style previously unseen at the 2.5-mile superspeedway: His racing line used all the track, diving down to an apex and letting the car slide, tail out, up the banking on the exit of the corners.

Longtime motorsports journalist Chris Economaki said, “He was powering clear across the track, twice a lap. It was incredible. Nobody would run with him. They said, ‘Look at him. He is going to lose it. He’ll never make it 200 laps’ but he did it, comfortably at the end.”

Andretti won under caution, leading teammate Fred Lorenzen by a half lap before the yellow waved with two laps remaining.

Canadian Earl Ross (in photo) a short track competitor, hardly carried the credentials of an Andretti. In fact, Ross in 1974 effectively bought a seat in a Chevrolet owned by NASCAR Hall of Famer Junior Johnson thanks to sponsorship of Canada’s Carling Brewery. No matter; Ross became one of just five winners during the season, joining these legends: Richard Petty, Cale Yarborough, David Pearson and Bobby Allison. He also became just the second rookie of the year to win in NASCAR’s premier series.

Ross won Martinsville Speedway’s Old Dominion 500, leading the final 79 laps after teammate and NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee Cale Yarborough’s engine expired. He won by more than a lap over Buddy Baker in a 30-car field that included NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty and Richard Childress.

Unfortunately for Ross, sponsorship dried up and the Prince Edward Island native returned to Canada where he continued to race into the 1990s.

Juan Pablo Montoya of Bogota, Colombia, came to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series after winning the 2000 Indianapolis 500 and seven Formula One races. His first victory came at Infineon Raceway in 2007 driving for his current owner Chip Ganassi. Montoya started 32nd in the race and led just the final seven laps around the 1.99-mile road course. He enjoyed a 4.07-second margin of victory over Kevin Harvick.

Montoya completed the career sweep of NASCAR Sprint Cup road courses, winning at Watkins Glen International in 2010.

From Owen A. Kearns / NASCAR

NASCAR: Canadian Maryeve Dufault making first career Montreal Nationwide start for MacDonald Mototrsports

MOORESVILLE, NC – Canadian driver Maryeve Dufault will be making her first start in the NASCAR Nationwide Series this Saturday at the NAPA Auto Parts 200 in Montreal.  She has teamed up with Canadian car owner Randy MacDonald to drive the Quebec Dodge Dealers No. 81 Dodge Challenger.  Maryeve is currently 13th in the ARCA points standings driving for Tony Marks Racing.   She is extremely excited about the opportunity to drive her first NASCAR race in her home country for a Canadian team.

Although Maryeve is a late-comer to stock cars, her family has a long history in racing, mostly with motorcycles.  Her racing career has spanned many genres including go-karting, motorcycles, Star Mazda series, and Formula BMW USA.  Off the track, Maryeve was a former member of “Barker’s Beauties,” won the Miss Hawaiian Tropic beauty contest, and even does stunt driving for movies.

Last season in Montreal, Michael McDowell qualified the MacDonald Motorsports Dodge 12th on the grid before overheating issues.  Tomy Drissi fought a long hard race to bring the MacDonald Motorsports #82 home in 18th place.

Blake Koch will return to the seat of the Daystar.com #81 Dodge for MacDonald Motorsports the following week at Bristol Motor Speedway.  Heading into Montreal he only trails Timmy Hill by 3 points in the chase for Sunoco Rookie of the Year.

-MacDonald Motorsports Press Release

Fan Appreciation Night this Friday at Scotia Speedworld

(Halifax, NS – August 17, 2011) Scotia Speedworld’s Weekly Racing Series continues this Friday night with Fan Appreciation Night! Without our loyal fans we would not be able to do what we do! As our thank you to YOU, the fans, Scotia Speedworld is offering $10 adult admission for one night only. Please note this offer is not available for pit entry. In additional to the deal at the gate fans will have an opportunity to win some great prizes courtesy of Scotia Speedworld sponsors. Youth tickets are $2 and children 7 and under are free!

Five divisions of hotrods will see action this week at the 3/10 mile oval; the Hydraulics Plus Bandoleros, Lumbermart Thunder and Lightning, Coco Beach Legends and the Dartmouth Dodge Sportsman. Heat races to determine starting positions for each division get underway at 7:00pm with feature racing to follow immediately after. Gates open at 5:00pm.

SSW RACEDAY FORMAT for Fan Appreciation Night

Pit Gate opens                                                                                  4:30 p.m.

Tech Inspection starts                                                                    4:30 p.m.

Practice starts (BN, LG, TH, LI, SP) 5 min sessions               5:00 p.m.

Practice ends                                                                                     6:20 p.m.

Drivers Meeting @ line up board (LG, TH, LG, LI, SP)        6:25 p.m.

Bandolero Drivers Meeting in infield                                       6:40 p.m.

Heats

Hydraulics Plus Bandolero Cars - 8 laps

Coco Beach Legend Cars – 10 laps

Dartmouth Dodge Sportsman Cars – 10 laps

Lumbermart Lightning Cars – 10 laps

Lumbermart Thunder Cars – 10 laps

Features

Hydraulics Plus Bandolero Cars - 15 laps

(Bandolero Driver Intros on front straight)

Lumbermart Thunder “B” if necessary

Coco Beach Legend Cars - 25 laps

Dartmouth Dodge Sportsman Cars – 30 laps

Lumbermart Lightning Cars – 20 laps

Lumbermart Thunder Cars – 25 laps 

*format subject to change without notice

About Scotia Speedworld

Scotia Speedworld (SSW) is a 3/10-mile asphalt oval racing facility.  SSW is the only venue in Nova Scotia to host a weekly racing series, which runs May through September and features six different classes of racecars. SSW also hosts special events, including Monster Jam and the Parts for Trucks Pro Stock Tour. SSW is located at Exit 6 on Highway 102, across from the Halifax Stanfield International Airport. For more information please click on www.ScotiaSpeedworld.ca  or call our Event Hotline at (902) 873-2277 or our office at (902) 481-2514.

OSCAAR: Matco Tools Outlaw Shootout at Delaware Speedway

Friday night marks the second and final 75 lap race of the 2011 campaign for the OSCAAR Super Late Models, this time at Delaware Speedway. The teams and drivers will have had exactly two weeks to lick their wounds from the 75 lap Don Biederman Memorial on August 5. Matco Tools is the title sponsor for the Delaware Speedway event and will once again be giving away two limited edition tool chests, one to the race’s winner and the other to a lucky fan. While the excitement off the track will surely be high, if the previous 75 lap event is any indication, the action on the racetrack will be some of the best found anywhere in the province.

The biggest story heading into the event is the battle between Jeff Hanley and Glenn Watson. Watson won the first battle at Mosport as part of his six race win streak to start the year. Since then it has been all Hanley. Hanley won from the pole position at both Peterborough and Kawartha on July 30 and August 5, respectively. Watson looked to be back on top at Kawartha when he passed Hanley for the lead on lap 29, but surrendered the lead to pit for tires on lap 47. A close battle between two of the top contenders surely will be on the table again Friday night.

Most of the field will be starting from scratch heading in to Delaware. As the series is focused mainly in eastern Ontario, many drivers have not been to Delaware in a long time or never at all.

“I haven’t raced at Delaware in a long time. It’s going to be a different situation out there. It might take a few green flag laps there to get used to that track because I haven’t been there in a long time,” explained Lloyd Ritchie, driver of the #62 ‘Orange Blossom Special’.

Shane Gowan is among those drivers that have never raced at Delaware.

“I’ve been a spectator there, but I’ve never turned a lap there. We’ll go there and see what happens.”

Delaware has become known for the bottom groove being the only truly quick line around the track. In an attempt to make the race more exciting for the very powerful Outlaws, Delaware officials have decided to spray a special adhesive to the outside racing groove in order to create more side by side racing. However, drivers are prepared to race on the bottom in order to be fast.

“A lot of the short tracks are one lane tracks. You’re just putting it on a bigger stage. Delaware is a good sized track, just with one lane. Definitely car wise, we will have to do some shock and spring stuff. Like you say, everybody says it’s a little bumpier and it’s got some changes and dips,” explained Shane Gowan.

The driver with the biggest advantage over the field is surely Jesse Kennedy. Prior to joining OSCAAR, Delaware was Kennedy’s home track as he raced in the FT Garage Late Model division. Kennedy is equally prepared to race on the bottom line, but says the 10” Hoosier and American Racer slicks that OSCAAR runs could create a second racing line.

“Well it will be interesting to see. The bottom line is obviously going to be the better spot. We’re going to go back to our original setup. That’s what we know works there. We’re going to have a bigger tire there, we’ve always been on the loose side with our original tire there,” stated Kennedy. “With these tires we should tighten that up a little bit. I’m still a little leery we might be a bit under horse-powered, but it’s a wait and see game.”

The rookie points battle has heated up as well with Shane Gowan, Chris Burrows, and Brandon Vanderwel putting some pressure on second place Tyler Hawn. Gowan won his first OSCAAR heat race at Kawartha two weeks ago.

“Yeah it was good to get out of the way. I didn’t expect it to be at that track,” said Gowan.

The overall points battle is heating up with drivers in second through sixth are separated by just 312 points. Given that a driver can earn as many as 310 points in a feature in addition to heat race points, the standings can change on any given night. The tight points system has made for hard racing all season long as drivers battle their way to the top. Jeff Dunford sits just 32 points behind third place Todd Campbell and continues to try and reclaim a season that started with poor luck.

The Matco Tools Outlaw Shootout has the second most prize money on the line this season which all but guarantees a huge car count. The pit gate for the event opens at 4:00pm, and practice begins at 6:00pm for OSCAAR alone, just as the spectator gate opens at the same time. OSCAAR will rotate practice with both the Dynamic Fluids Super Stocks and Powerade Open Wheel Modifieds from 6:30pm to 7:30pm. Delaware Speedway would like to remind fans that the Kids Club and Hoppy the Clown will be in attendance and toonie hot dogs will be available until 7:00pm to make the event a true family experience. Admission prices will be the same as regular Friday night events at Delaware.

Schedule of Events – Delaware Speedway August 19, 2011

Pit Gate Opens: 4:00pm

Spectator Gate Opens: 6:00pm

OSCAAR Practice: 6:00pm-6:30pm

Rotating Practice: 6:30pm-7:30pm (All Divisions)

Racing Starts: 8:00pm

From Clayton Johns / OSCAAR

OHSWEKEN: Northern Summer Nationals continues this Friday

Another special event hits the track this Friday at Ohsweken Speedway when Jones Brown Insurance presents round 3 in the Northern Summer Nationals Sprint Car series. The Lighthouse Tattoos Thunder Stocks, HRW Automotive Mini Stocks, and Pierced Parts Bombers will also be in action this Friday night, August 19 for round 11 of Friday Night Thunder.

NORTHERN SUMMER NATIONALS: The final rounds of the Northern Summer Nationals Sprint Car series will take place this weekend, with racing Friday at Ohsweken Speedway, and Saturday at South Buxton Raceway. Four affiliated sanctioning bodies are involved in the series, including Ohsweken’s Corr/Pak Merchandising Sprint Car division, along with the Southern Ontario Sprints club, ASCS Sprints on Dirt series, and Patriot Sprint Tour.

The opening round of the series was rained out at Ohsweken on June 24, so the Northern Summer Nationals kicked off at South Buxton Raceway the following night. Keith Dempster of Alton claimed the win in that round, and holds a slim 1 point margin over teammate Glenn Styres heading into this weekend. Lefroy’s Warren Mahoney is currently tied for 3rd in the standings with two New York drivers - Jared Zimbardi and Bryan Howland.

The overall winner of the series will receive cash awards, plus a guaranteed starting spot in the seventh annual Canadian Sprint Car Nationals feature race coming up on September 17.

The Corr/Pak Merchandising Sprint Car regulars will defend home turf on Friday night, with Fenwick driver Jim Huppunen leading the way. Huppunen is the only driver to finish in the top 10 in all 11 Corr/Pak events held so far in 2011, including an impressive run from 20th to 6th in a borrowed car last Friday. “Tilbury Tornado” Kyle Patrick got his first feature win of the season two weeks ago, and followed that up with a runner-up finish on Friday, cutting Huppunen’s lead to just 21 points.

Burford’s Jamie Collard is third, followed by South Dayton, NY driver Kyle Moffit, and Mitch Brown of Brantford. Brown won his first ever Sprint Car feature last Friday night, and became the 10th different winner in 11 Corr/Pak events held at Ohsweken this year. Corr/Pak points leader Jim Huppunen is the only driver with more than one win at Ohsweken this season. Corr/Pak drivers who have accumulated Northern Summer Nationals points already include Keith Dempster, Glenn Styres, Kyle Patrick, Dain Naida, Jamie Collard, Mitch Brown, Chris Durand, Travis Cunningham, and John Burbridge, Jr.

Patriot Sprint Tour drivers are always hard to ignore at Ohsweken. Salamanca, NY driver Jared Zimbardi leads the PST points standings, and has also tasted success at Ohsweken this year, winning the Corr/Pak feature on June 10. Zimbardi is one of the hottest drivers in the Northeast right now, following a $4,000 win at Black Rock Speedway last Friday.

Tim Kelly of Rockstream, NY, and Williamsville, NY driver Don Adamczyk have already accumated Northern Summer Nationals points, along with Bryan Howland of Auburn, NY. Howland has missed a couple of PST events, but still ranks 8th in the PST standings, and won the Corr/Pak feature at Ohsweken on June 17. Howland won the 2008 Northern Summer Nationals, and was on his way to winning the ’09 event when his front wing came loose with 3 laps to go.

Dustin Daggett’s name is always the first mentioned whenever the ASCS Sprints on Dirt series is involved with an Ohsweken event. The Grand Ledge, Michigan resident has already won 6 times on the ASCS SOD tour this season, and leads that points chase. Daggett has also won at the Northern Summer Nationals twice before, and sits tied for second all-time on the Ohsweken Speedway feature win list with 9. Daggett crossed the finish line first at South Buxton in June, but Goshen, Indiana’s Brett Mann is second in the ASCS SOD standings, and is on a hot streak lately with 2 feature wins, 2 runner-up finishes, and a 4th place in his last 5 ASCS SOD starts. The 2-time ASCS SOD champ missed the first Northern Summer Nationals weekend to compete in a pavement event, but is all set and ready to race on the dirt both nights this weekend in Ontario. Ken Mackey, Robert Huisken, and Jim Lingar also scored Northern Summer Nationals points for ASCS SOD in June.

Lee Ladouceur of Alexandria, Ontario leads the Southern Ontario Sprints club heading into this weekend’s action. Ladouceur doesn’t have a feature win yet this year, but has been consistent, finishing 8th or better in each SOS event he’s competed in, including June’s Northern Summer Nationals event. Sutton driver Bob Crawford is 2nd in the SOS standings, followed by Warren Mahoney, and Grimsby’s Travis Cunningham, who is the only weekly Corr/Pak driver who has also competed in all of the SOS events held so far this season. Jim Munsie, Adam West, Dick Mahoney, Frank Baranowski, and Brad Lodge also scored Northern Summer Nationals points for the SOS club in June.

LIGHTHOUSE TATTOOS THUNDER STOCKS: Burford driver Phil Nyssen holds a hot hand in the Thunder Stock division, winning the last 3 features, but Caledonia’s Mike Thorne continues to control the championship chase with consistency. Thorne scored yet another top 10 finish last Friday, and holds a 71 point lead over Ryan Dinning, also of Caledonia. Port Robinson driver Devin Habiuk, Caistor Centre rookie Cory Turner, and Cambridge’s Wyatt Van Wart round out the top 5.

HRW AUTOMOTIVE MINI STOCKS: Karl Sault of Dundas has seen his points lead in the Mini Stock division shrink over the last couple of weeks, but he still holds a 31 point advantage over Caledonia’s Mike Evers heading into Friday’s event.

Cayuga driver Abel Castelein is 3rd in the standings, followed by Jake Brown of Brantford, and Ohsweken’s Steve Hess. Burlington’s Jeremy Hughes won his 3rd feature of the season last Friday, and now sits 6th in the standings.

PIERCED PARTS BOMBERS: The Bomber standings were shaken up last Friday when points leader Rodney Rutherford of Waterdown had mechanical problems and failed to finish for the first time this season. Rodney continues to hold the lead, but the gap is now just 16 points between he and 2nd place driver Jesse McDonald of Caledonia. Hamilton’s Jeremy May is 3rd in the standings, followed by first time feature winner Sarah Rutherford, and Dunnville driver Tylor Brock.

THIS WEEK AT OHSWEKEN: Ohsweken Speedway’s Friday Night Thunder continues this Friday, August 19 when Jones Brown Insurance presents the third round of the Northern Summer Nationals Sprint Car series. Ohsweken’s Corr/Pak Merchandising Sprint Car stars will be joined by drivers and teams from the Southern Ontario Sprints, ASCS Sprints on Dirt, and Patriot Sprint Tour for a big $2,000-to-win event. The Lighthouse Tattoos Thunder Stocks, HRW Automotive Mini Stocks, and Pierced Parts Bombers will also be part of the 11th round of Friday Night Thunder this week.

Friday Night Thunder at Ohsweken offers affordable, exciting, family entertainment just a short drive from many Mid-Western Ontario locations. Adult General Admission for this special Northern Summer Nationals event is just $20, while Seniors and Students are $8, and Kids age twelve and under are FREE! Spectator gates open @ 6:00p.m., with the first race taking the green flag at 7:45p.m. this Friday, June 24! Visit www.OhswekenSpeedway.com and Feel The Excitement!

By Tommy Goudge / Ohsweken Speedway

PRO STOCK TOUR ROLLS TO RIVERSIDE FOR LUCAS OIL 100

(Halifax, NS, August 15, 2011) The Parts for Trucks Pro Stock Tour will make its final visit of the season to Riverside International Speedway on Saturday August 20th, for the Lucas Oil 100. The race will mark round 10 of twelve for the regional touring series. The defending champion of the Lucas Oil 100 is Donald Chisholm from nearby Antigonish, Nova Scotia. Chisholm drove a spirited race last August to hold off the close competition from his fellow Pro Stock drivers to take his first victory since 2004. One year and another victory later he returns looking for his third win in four races at his home track. Qualifying at the 1/3 mile, high banked oval, located in James River, NS, will start at 5:10 p.m. with the Atlantic Tiltload Time Trials; racing action is slated for 6:00 p.m.

Former series champion Wayne Smith (Timberlea, NS) enters Riverside International Speedway with the point lead after a third place run at the Atlantic CAT 250. Shawn Tucker (Fredericton, NB), who entered last weekend atop the standings now sits in second, just nine markers out of the championship spot, 1762 to 1753. Darren MacKinnon (Charlottetown, PE) returns to Riverside as the most recent winner at the Speedway as the third place point driver, 23 out of Smith for the lead. Air Show Atlantic winner John Flemming (Halifax, NS) has closed to within four points of MacKinnon with Kent Vincent (Crapaud, PE) completing the top five in the standings.

The Parts for Trucks Pro Stock Tour will be joined by the NAPA Sportsman Tour on Saturday as they will duke it out for 50-laps prior to the Lucas Oil 100. Frankie Fraser (Shubenacadie), who won the Dartmouth Dodge 100 at Scotia Speedworld last weekend enters competition as the point leader on the Sportsman Tour.

Tickets for the Lucas Oil 100 are on sale now at Ticket Atlantic and participating Atlantic Superstores, phone 1.877.451.1221 or visit www.ticketatlantic.com . Reserved and general admission seating is also available at the Riverside Box Office, phone 1.902.863.2410 or visit www.riversidespeedway.ca .  Tickets will also be available at the gate on race day. Complete event information can be found at www.MaritimeProStockTour.com

Expected Entry List – Lucas Oil 100 

#0 - Shawn Turple - Enfield, NS

#1 - Dave Heino - Barrington, NS

#02 - Mike Mackenzie - Dartmouth, NS

#5 - Jonathan Hicken - Brudenell, PEI

#8 - Kent Vincent - Westmoreland, PEI

#9 - Brad Brown – Halifax, NS

#11 – Marty Prevost – Fall River, NS

#14 – Terry Dougay  - Albany, PEI

#16 – Dylan Gosbee – Cornwall, PEI

#18 - Darren Mackinnon - Milton, PEI

#21 - Shawn Pierce - Bridgewater, NS

#26 - Mike Stevens - Riverview, NB

#29 - Greg Proude - Springvale, PEI

#35 – Brad Mann – Glen Livet, NB

#42 – Steven Ross – Waverley, NS

#44 - Wayne Smith - Timberlea, NS

#45 - Leonard Boutilier – Dutch Settlement, NS

#52 - Shawn Tucker - Fredericton, NB

#66 - Daryl Mahar - Hubley, NS

#88 – George Koszkulics – New Glasgow, NS

#89 – Donald Chisholm – Antigonish, NS

#97 - John Flemming - Halifax, NS

#98 - Jerome Kehoe – Sydney, NS

#99 - Craig Slaunwhite - Terence Bay, NS  

Entry list subject to change without notice

About Lucas Oil:

Lucas Oil is one of the fastest growing additive lines in the consumer automotive industry, carrying a premium line of oils, greases and problem solving additives as well as a heavy duty line of products for the industrial and agricultural markets. Lucas Oil has long been directly involved in the racing industry, and seeing a need for better lubricants in this industry, Lucas Oil developed a line of high performance engine oils and gear oils that are second-to-none in the racing industry. Lucas racing products, including high performance engine oils and gear oils have proven themselves on NASCAR, NHRA, IHRA, USHRA and ATPA tracks across the country.

About Riverside International Speedway:

Riverside Speedway, 1/3-mile high banked asphalt oval, is located in James River, between New Glasgow and Antigonish, at exit 30 off Trans Canada Highway 104. Opened in 1969, the facility was totally rebuilt in 2006 to become a premiere motorsports site, comparable to the best short tracks in Canada and the U.S. For more information about Riverside International Speedway, please visit www.riversidespeedway.ca  or call 902.863.2410

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     

Race Time Radio: Tonight Tuesday August 16 2011

RACE TIME RADIO Presented by: Shell ROTELLA 
Broadcast Tuesday Nights On theScore... SIRIUS Channel 158
TONIGHT Tuesday Aug 16th 2011 - Listen at 8 p.m.
Emerson Fittipaldi ... Ron Hornaday ... Ron Fellows and more!
Visit www.racetimeradio.com for news and tuning info.

KAWARTHA SPEEDWAY: Running with the pack

FRASERVILLE, ON - Start with a beautiful, moonlit mid summer’s night.  Then throw close to 25 NAPA Auto Parts ACT Late Models on a spacious, high banked 3/8th mile oval and let them shine for 100 green flag laps, with a $1,800.00 payday waiting for the first car across the line.  The results will amaze you.  That’s exactly what happened Friday, August 12th as Kawartha Speedway hosted the third and final extra distance event on this year’s schedule for its headline division.

Ryan Kimball and Dan McHattie won the night’s late model heat races that – with the heads-up qualifying format – earned them front row starting spots for the 100 lap feature.  Ken Donaldson Jr. and last week’s feature winner Willie Reyns split a pair of Better Carpet Thunder Car preliminaries, while the 8 lap opening rounds for the Hasiuk Trailer and Container Rental Mini Stocks went to Brad Martin and Ryan Oosterholt.  Spencer MacPherson took the late model semi feature, with Chad Strawn and Brad Martin earning the same honours in the thunder car and mini stock divisions.  Qualifying concluded with consolation round wins by Kyle Donaldson and Neil Hannah in the late model and mini stock fields respectively.

The Better Carpet Thunder Cars were the first feature event to hit the track, as Andy Ford and Mike Sinopoli brought the pack to the starter’s green flag.  With faster runners starting deep in the field, fans were brought to their feet several times watching drivers work through traffic.  Ken Donaldson Jr. had found his way to the lead and was being chased lap after lap by Chad Strawn.  Just past halfway, there was a little pinball racing coming off turn four as Willie Reyns and Andy Ford came together, sending the #87 up the track.  With his racing lane quickly closed, Matt Spence also became involved as the #53 was left with nowhere to go.  Although beaten, battered and bruised, all 3 cars were able to continue after a quick pit stop.  Reyns had enough strength to make it back to 3rd at the checkered flag, but no one had anything for Donaldson.  Strawn followed the #03 across the line for 2nd.  Steve Mayhew and Howie Crowe were 4th and 5th.

With 100 laps on the table, the NAPA Auto Parts ACT Late Model drivers knew they’d need to use their heads for the majority of the event and wait for an opening on the track instead of using their front bumper to create one.  At the start of the show, Dan McHattie got the jump on pole sitter Ryan Kimball and took the early lead using the outside line.  Last week’s winner Larry Jackson slipped past for second and the front pair decided the best defence was a stronger offence.  Kimball kept pace early, but the neon yellow #16 was also starting to face challenges from Dave Morgan and Bryan Mercer who were battling hard for position in his rear view mirror.  The night’s first caution flag waved when Steve Munro looped the #00 in turn 4 with 6 laps complete.  Brandon Watson’s solo spin in almost the same location 31 circuits later produced the show’s second yellow. 

With McHattie, Jackson, Kimball, Morgan and Dwight Brown making-up the top 5, several drivers including Kyle Donaldson, Tim Cole and Mercer headed for the pits.  There was some solid action throughout the pack and green flag racing continued until lap 80, when Mike Wallace lost the handle on the #27 coming off turn 2.  Ryan Kimball took his Chevy into the pits during the same caution period. 

With 20 laps left to ‘play’, Kawartha’s late model runners had turned a 100 lap marathon into a dash for cash and while Dan McHattie was having thoughts of filling out the slip for a bank deposit, the rest of the field had drawn an imaginary bull’s eye on the rear bumper of the #71 Dodge.  Jackson would get close enough to offer a gentle nudge on a couple of occasions, but McHattie – who has often described his home built chassis as a ‘night time car’ – wouldn’t relinquish the spot he’d held since the drop of the green flag.  Dwight Brown was 3rd, with Earl Ireland and Dave Morgan completing the top 5.

Danny Benedict and defending track champion Mike Nelson were the front row starters for the 20 lap Hasiuk Trailer and Container Rental Mini Stock feature.  As they have done so often this year, the 4 bangers left the blocks strong and maintained a torrid pace throughout the show, running the entire race distance without a yellow flag.  The usual suspects were able to show their stuff, but when the checkered flag fell, it was Daryl Fice in the winner’s circle for the second time this year.  Alex Lees, Nelson, ‘Too’ Moroney and Brad Martin finished second through fifth.

Kawartha klips:  The NAPA Auto Parts ACT Late Model ranks were bolstered by Valerie Chiasson of Le Gardeur, Quebec and Stephane DaCoste of Oka, Quebec.  Both drivers are regulars on the ACT Castrol Series.  Capital City Speedway runners Tim Kirby and Steve Munro also made the trip...It was a rough night for Dave Waite.  The Smiths Falls, Ontario racer made it to the track, but the trailer carrying his racecar developed a flat tire and was parked in Norwood for the night...Former Kawartha late model runner Brandon Watson ran Vic Parsons’ #1 machine...Sunset Speedway regular Stompin’ Tom Walters made his first 2011 Kawartha Speedway start...After running Josh Gruntz’s car in a few feature events, Jamie Wagar brought his own #12 thunder car to the track for the first time this year...The mini stock field had 3 new drivers, but just 2 new cars.  Ryan DiBello and Steve McColl made their first runs of the year.  Kirk Morris raced the #57 usually driven by Rob Flindall.

Kawartha Speedway takes a 1 week break from racing, returning Friday, August 26th with a 50 lap Better Carpet Thunder Car invitational as the featured attraction.  The show will also include the NAPA Auto Parts ACT Late Models and Hasiuk Trailer and Container Rental Mini Stocks.  The Pro Challenge series and Ontario Legends will be part of the program as well, creating a 5 division night of racing.  Fans can always find the latest news and the complete 2011 track schedule at www.kawarthaspeedway.com

Photo attachments:  Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications

#1).  Dan McHattie started on the outside of the front row and led all 100 laps to take another NAPA Auto Parts ACT Late Model win Friday, August 12th at Kawartha Speedway.

#2).  Rookie of the year hopeful Ken Donaldson Jr. added another Better Carpet Thunder Car checkered flag to his resume, claiming the main event win Friday, August 12th at Kawartha Speedway.

#3).  Oshawa’s Daryl Fice made it back to victory lane, picking-up the Hasiuk Trailer and Container Rental Mini Stock feature Friday, August 12th at Kawartha Speedway.

Prepared by:  Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications

NICK WITTMER RE- JOINS TEAM i-MOTO AT MID OHIO SERIES SEASON FINALE

August 16, 2011 – CORAL SPRINGS, FL –Team i-MOTO Mazda is very happy to announce that former i-MOTO team driver and 2009 & 2010 Canadian Touring Car Champion will co-drive with team owner/driver Glenn Bocchino. Nick and Glenn will pilot the team’s #30 Mazdaspeed 3 to contest for the manufacturer’s championship in the Continental Cup ST Class of the Grand Am series finale. Nick drove for i-MOTO Racing the entire 2007-2008 season, which included winning the Fresh From Florida 200 at Daytona International Speedway season with team owner Glenn Bocchino.

Team principle Glenn Bocchino states “I am very excited to co-drive with Nick again. Nick’s driving skills always amazes me; it is fun to watch him drive. He does things with the car that very few drivers have the nerve to do! Mid-Ohio is going to be entertaining for the fans that’s for sure!

Nick comments, “I'm really excited about returning to i-MOTO and driving with Glenn. Hopefully, we can repeat our win from Daytona and our podium in Mid-Ohio in 2008. I am confident that we will do extremely well.”

Nick Wittmer’s Highlights Include:

• 2010 & 2009 Canadian Touring Car Champion

• 2010 SCCA Pro World Challenge Touring Car 1 Win, 1 Podium, 2 top 10’s (running 4 races)

• 2008 Grand AM Koni Challenge 1 Win, 2 Podiums, 4 top 10’s

• 2007 Grand AM Koni Challenge 1 Win, 4 Podiums, 7 top 10’s

Nick was also awarded the prestigious Gilles Villeneuve trophy by the Federation Auto Sport Quebec and was voted Canadian Road Racer of the Year by his peers through Inside Track News.

For more information: www.i-motoracing.com & http://www.grand-am.com/

 

Wickens Returns to Title Fight at Silverstone

Toronto, Canada (August 16, 2011) – Round 7 of the 2011 Formula Renault 3.5 Series at Silverstone this weekend, Saturday 20th – Sunday 21st August, is the closest thing Canada's Robert Wickens has to a 'home' race this year. 

With the 22-year-old from Toronto basing himself during the season just a few miles away from Silverstone, in the town of Milton Keynes, the championship hopeful is looking to build on this year's successes which include a pair of wins and a total of six podium finishes, placing him just four points behind series leader, France's Jean Eric Vergne heading into the British double-header meeting (152pts – 148pts). 

Disappointed to have lost the points lead to Vergne following a challenging weekend in Hungary at the start of July, the short summer-break has subsequently allowed Wickens both the opportunity to return to Canada and the chance to take stock of the season so-far and prepare for the final three rounds starting with Silverstone. 

"I'm looking forward to getting back in the car," stated the Marussia Motors-backed racer.  "Carlin always gives me a good car!  Combine that with the fact that I like Silverstone's layout and I'm hoping for another strong weekend.  My approach certainly isn't changing and all being well we'll put the frustrations of Hungary behind us and bounce back with a return to the podium!" 

Wickens, a Formula One reserve driver for the Marussia Virgin Racing team, remains focused on winning his first European title after runner-up finishes in F2 in 2009 and in the GP3 Series in 2010. 

"I think you're always thinking of the championship," said Robert.  "I'm only four points out at the moment and there's 25 points up for grabs for a win and 18 for a second place and so on.  It's extremely close so the best thing I can do is aim for wins and see what follows.  I've enjoyed the break we've had to be honest.  It's a great opportunity to recharge your batteries a bit.  I've kept in touch with the team throughout and been speaking to my engineers a lot.  I'm confident we're going to come back strong at Silverstone and keep things interesting!" 

Round 7 of the Formula Renault 3.5 Series starts with Race 1 held at 8am EST / 1pm GMT on Saturday, followed by Race 2, also at 8am EST / 1pm GMT, on Sunday 21st August. 

2011 FR3.5 Series Top-5 Driver Standings (R6/9): 1st – Vergne (FRA) 152pts, 2nd – WICKENS (CAN) 148pts, 3rd – Korjus (EST) 110pts, 4th – Rossi (US) 101pts, 5th – Costa (ESP) 100pts - www.worldseriesbyrenault.com,  

ENDS – www.robertwickens.com  / Twitter: @robertwickens

PHOTOS: August 12 at Ohsweken Speedway from Peter Anderson

Pictures from August 12, 2011 at Ohsweken Speedway, including Sarah
Rutherford's win in 'Herbie.' Thanks Peter!