ERNIE SAXTON COMM.: Double value sponsorship help available

LANGHORNE, PA November 11, 2011 . . . Need some help with your sponsorship efforts? If the answer is yes, Ernie Saxton Communications, Inc. may just have the help you need and he is offering that help as a double value special.

Saxton is offering a copy of the book he considers the best available, the Great Money Hunt. The book was written by sponsorship marketing expert Andrew Waite. Over the years he has been able to bring millions in sponsorship to his clients.

The book offers more than 300 pages of helpful information including:

* Setting the budget and deciding on your offer.

* Building a team and sales strategy.

* Pricing

* Making contact.

* Dealing with objections.

* Scripting your calls.

* Learn how companies make their decisions.

* Putting together the proposal.

* Forming a marketing partnership.

* The agreement

* And so much more.

The Great Money Hunt answers all your sponsorship questions and shows you how to go after serious sponsorship in the right way.

The second part of the special offer is a subscription to Saxton's Motorsports Sponsorship Marketing News, a newsletter that has helped so many with their sponsorship efforts and offers helps and news on sponsorship.

Several sponsorship experts are included in each issue of the newsletter that is now in its 27th year of publication.

Both sponsorship marketing tools are available at the very low price of just $99.95 plus $10.00 to cover shipping and handling.

Orders may be placed by telephoning Ernie Saxton Communications, Inc. at 215.752.7797 (major credit cards are accepted). This could be a great Christmas gift for that racer on the Christmas list. Checks/money orders may be made out to ESC, Inc. and mailed to 1448 Hollywood Avenue, Langhorne, PA 19047. For more info, contact Ernie Saxton at: esaxton144@aol.com.

RYAN LITT: 2011 IN REVIEW

By Tommy Goudge (November 10, 2011) London, Ontario – Ryan Litt and the #07 BS&B Radiator Sprint Car team finished their 2011 racing season last month at Bristol Motor Speedway. Now they’re full speed ahead in preparing for 2012.

The Bristol event on October 1 was a career highlight for many of the racers who competed in it. It was also the season finale for the Must See Racing Xtreme Sprint Car series, which featured a three-way fight for the title. Ryan was in the middle of it after qualifying third at more than 147 miles per hour, but he wasn’t able to finish well enough in the feature race.

“I really enjoyed Bristol,” says Ryan. “It was definitely a highlight of my career. Just entering the track gives you goose bumps: You enter in turn three and go down 40 or 50 feet of banking, and it feels like you’re entering a coliseum. It's really overwhelming. Unfortunately what looked to be a good day didn't end up as we would have liked it to, and we could only muster up a 7th place finish after a strong qualifying effort.”

The Bristol event also presented some unknowns for the racers. Sprint Cars had never raced on the high-banked concrete track before, and nobody was entirely sure what to expect. As it turned out, the racing was very good, and there is a good possibility of more events there in the future.

“The track was a blast to race on,” says Ryan. “Smooth as glass, and the banking felt great. The banking was a really easy transition, so it didn't intimidate quite as bad as a Winchester or Salem would the first time. The speeds were pretty unreal as well. It made the cars feel like they only had 100 horsepower. You were always on the gas flat-out trying not to scrub off any speed in the corners. It was really similar to Indy car style racing - all about momentum.”

Ryan competed in 16 races this season, recording 9 top five finishes, and 1 feature win, which came at Dixie Motor Speedway on August 5. Ryan finished second in the Must See Racing Series Xtreme Sprint series championship, just 4 points shy of the title. By many standards it was a successful season, but Ryan and the team are not satisfied, and they’re looking to improve for next year.

“Overall our season was pretty good,” says Ryan. “We had a lot of consistent top five finishes, but really never had a fast enough car to take the win. It was one of those years where we kind of stayed below the radar, which is unlike us. I would have liked to win a lot more races and qualify better. We are making changes as we speak to try something new for next year. I'm not a driver who is satisfied with top fives. I like to win.”

Plans for next season are already in high gear, and Ryan wants to start early running indoors and in the southern states. Next year he wants to try for the Must See Racing title again, and race in a variety of open wheel divisions.

“This winter I'm trying to race whenever I can,” says Ryan. “I'm currently planning to run with TBARA in Florida during Speedweeks, and I would love to run a midget indoors as well. Next year plans are to run MSR and AVSS as much as possible, and hopefully I will be running the dirt at Ohsweken as much as I can. I tried (dirt) once last year and I got really hooked on it. I love a new challenge, and the one-time race really left me licking my lips for more. I love trying new cars and learning how to get fast in them. I would love to get back into a Supermodified too.”

T-SHIRT TIME

Ryan Litt Racing still has 2011 t-shirts left, and will donate fifty percent of the proceeds of these remaining shirts to the Children’s Hospital at London Health Sciences Centre at Christmas time. Medium, Large, and Extra-Large shirts are still available. Visit www.RyanLitt.com  today to order yours.

RIDE WITH RYAN

Make sure to check out Ryan's new HD in-car camera footage. The latest edition finds Ryan flat-out in qualifying around Bristol’s high-banks. Just go to Ryan's official YouTube profile at www.youtube.com/user/RyanLittRacing to watch the videos...and crank up the volume!

Ryan and the team would like to thank all their sponsors for their support during the 2011 season, including BS&B Radiator, Linton Media, Linde Gases, and Xtreme Metal Worx.  

Do you want to be an insider and have Ryan Litt Racing news delivered straight to your e-mail? Got a question for Ryan? Just send an e-mail to ryanlittmedia@hotmail.com  and we’ll do the rest. Questions may be featured in future Ryan Litt Racing news updates so be sure to include your name and hometown!  

If you’re a Facebook, Twitter, or YouTube user, make sure to join the official Ryan Litt Racing pages at www.facebook.com/RyanLittRacing, www.twitter.com/ryanlittracing , and www.youtube.com/user/RyanLittRacing   

For more information on Ryan and the team, including schedules, news releases, photos, videos, merchandise, and contact information, please visit Ryan’s official website powered by Linton Media at www.RyanLitt.com .

Wickens Makes Formula One Grand Prix Debut

Toronto, Canada (November 11, 2011) – Robert Wickens made his Formula One Grand Prix weekend debut on Friday, at the Yas Marina Circuit, as the Canadian participated in Friday morning's free practice session with Marussia Virgin Racing ahead of Sunday's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.  The Toronto racer ended his maiden F1 session just half a second off team-mate Timo Glock's best time as he drove the team's MVR-02 for the first time on the 5.55km circuit. 

Wickens, a reserve driver for Marussia Virgin Racing since June and the 2011 Formula Renault 3.5 Series Champion, was then confirmed as one of the team's participants in next week's 'Young Driver Test', also hosted at Yas Marina Circuit, where he'll run with the British-based team on Thursday, 17th November. 

Robert, backed by Marussia Motors throughout his title winning Formula Renault 3.5 Series campaign, received his Free Practice outing on Friday with Marussia Virgin Racing as a reward for his efforts this season in Europe, which included five victories from a total of 10 podium finishes.   

In addition to his test opportunities with Marussia Virgin Racing, Robert will participate in the opening day of next week's 'Young Driver Test', on Tuesday 15th November, driving the Lotus Renault GP R31.  The Canadian earned this full-day test opportunity as a prize from Renault for his title-winning efforts this season having earlier enjoyed some demonstration laps with the team in Hungary as a prize for leading the Formula Renault 3.5 Series at the half-way mark back in July. 

"I've said all along that I'm going to make the most of these opportunities," stated Wickens in Abu Dhabi.  "I've thoroughly enjoyed being part of the Marussia Virgin Racing organization this season and I really want to thank them, not only for today's Free Practice opportunity but now also for the chance to participate in next week's test.  It's been an incredible year to learn Formula One and there's obviously no better way for me to show I'm ready to step up than to drive these cars. 

"This morning's practice session went well.  I know the track here from a GP2 test day last year so I didn't have to learn that allowing me to concentrate fully on driving the MVR-02.  I ran on one set of prime tires and worked well with the team in terms of what they were looking to achieve from my outing.  Again, it was just a great opportunity to be out there with the regular Formula One drivers and I think I did a good job.  It gives me more to think about heading into next week's test days." 

Robert's only previous seat-time in Marussia Virgin Racing's MVR-02, before today's Grand Prix outing, was in straight-line testing Vairano in Italy back in September. 

www.robertwickens.com  / Twitter: @robertwickens

About Robert Wickens: 

Robert Wickens (22) is recognized as one of the brightest Canadian driving talents to have emerged in recent years with a track record of success forged on both sides of the Atlantic leading him well placed on the path to Formula One.  A multiple karting champion in North America, Wickens won the 2006 Formula BMW USA title before graduating, and winning races in the Formula Atlantic Series the following year.  Chasing his F1 dream, Robert moved to Europe in 2008 winning races in both the World Series by Renault and the F3 Euro Series.   

He raced his way to the runner-up spot in the FIA F2 Championship in 2009, again a multiple race-winner, before tackling the 2010 GP3 Series.  Another strong title-challenging campaign saw Robert claim the runner-up position but more importantly, his 2010 efforts attracted the backing of Marussia Motors – Russia's first supercar manufacturer and an owner in the Marussia Virgin Racing F1 team.   

Robert was confirmed as one of Marussia Virgin Racing's official reserve drivers in June 2011 – attending all remaining Grand Prix events subject to schedule.  In October 2011 he won the Formula Renault 3.5 Series after a season which comprised 5 wins from a total of 10 podium finishes.  He subsequently made his Formula One Grand Prix debut with Marussia Virgin Racing participating in the opening practice session of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November 2011. 

About Marussia Motors:

Founded in 2007 by former racing driver Nikolay Fomenko, renowned brand strategist Efim Ostrovsky and award-winning technology entrepreneur Andrey Cheglakov, the creation of Russia's first high-performance car company is a remarkable story of vision, focus, innovation and ambition.  The dramatic mid-engined B1 design, was first unveiled in Moscow in 2008, followed by the launch of the Marussia B2 in the autumn of 2009 – with these designs, the Russian supercar had arrived.  In 2010 the company partnered with Virgin Racing F1 and at the end of the season Marussia Motors acquired a majority stake in the team – now called Marussia Virgin Racing – www.marussiamotors.ru  / www.virginracing.com  

IZOD IndyCar announces first-ever race in China

INDIANAPOLIS (Thursday, Nov. 10, 2011) - A first-ever IZOD IndyCar Series race in China is among four international destinations announced today by INDYCAR for the 2012 season.

The IZOD IndyCar Series will race on a 3.87-mile street circuit in Qingdao, China - the Yellow Sea coastal city of 8.7 million between Beijing and Shanghai that played host to the 2008 Summer Olympics Sailing competition. INDYCAR also will sanction 2012 events in Toronto, Ontario, São Paulo, Brazil, and Edmonton, Alberta.

"As the world global economy continues to grow and evolve, China, the world's second-largest economy, has become a top priority with most American businesses and the sponsors that are committed to INDYCAR," said Randy Bernard, CEO, INDYCAR. "Last year, at our sponsorship summit, China was the No. 1 place our sponsors wanted to go outside of the United States.

"We are very excited and truly grateful for the full support of the Chinese Government, Qingdao City Government and related Government Bureaus in providing the opportunity to bring the IZOD IndyCar Series to China. We are committed to doing our part in making this a fantastic race event weekend to be seen on the world stage."

The race will be contested on a temporary street circuit, with the long-term objective of constructing a permanent racing and entertainment venue. Known for its German and French heritage, Qingdao boasts an almost European atmosphere, with the city often referred to as "China's Switzerland." The race is scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 19, which coincides with the popular Qingdao International Beer Festival.

"The China automotive industry is experiencing explosive growth and it is just smart to begin establishing our brand and business roots in the China marketplace," said Terry Angstadt, Commercial Division President, INDYCAR. "Over the last three years - with full support of the Chinese Government, Qingdao City Government and related Government Bureaus - U.S.-based INDYCAR representative ARD, China race promoter Yinxin Investment, as well as major sponsor Qingdao City Construction Investment Group have worked with our team in the realization of this historic race event. We couldn't be happier for the future Chinese race fans and the extended INDYCAR family."

The event in Qingdao complements two other venues that return to the IZOD IndyCar Series calendar for 2012: the Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix on Sunday, June 3, and the Auto Club Speedway oval in Fontana, Calif., for a race under the lights Saturday, Sept. 15.

The 2012 season, which will feature the return of engine manufacturer competition and a new, stylish car, kicks off Sunday, March 25, with the eighth Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. The Indianapolis 500 is scheduled for Sunday, May 27, with Pole Day on Saturday, May 19.

The remainder of the 2012 IZOD IndyCar Series schedule, and the 2012 Firestone Indy Lights schedule, will be announced soon.

From Amy Konrath, IZOD IndyCar Series

Michigan International Speedway competes repaving project

BROOKLYN, Mich. (@MISpeedway ) — Michigan International Speedway is paving the way for the exciting return of NASCAR to Michigan in 2012. The fourth repave project in the track’s 44-year history is complete.

The completion of the project means NASCAR drivers will have to work extra hard to win a race at Michigan, a driver favorite and fan since the track opened in 1968.

A laser survey of the racetrack before the repave project began last August collected more than 100 million data points across the surface, allowing engineers to replicate all points of the original pavement. But crews smoothed out all of the dips and bumps that occurred over time, making MIS as smooth as silk.

“Since the track is so much smoother, it has now created a level playing field for all competitors and all teams,” Roger Curtis, president of MIS, explained. “Some teams have a larger book of historical information about the track from past events. All this data can now be thrown out the window because the new, smooth surface will mean the less experienced teams have just as much knowledge of the new surface as the larger, more experienced super-teams.”

The data points also showed MIS has always had variable banking in its 18-degree turns. Variable banking allows cars to carry more speed through the turns, enabling drivers to run multiple lines around the racetrack.

Additionally, a smoother surface usually means more grip with the tires, and more grip means better handling of the cars so drivers feel good about passing and driving high lines.

The $7 million project was done by Ajax Paving Industries in Troy, Mich., who has extensive background in paving high-speed, high-banked ovals including the Chrysler Corp. oval in Chelsea, Mich., and the Ford Romeo Test Track for Ford Motor Co., a five-mile, steep-banked oval used by the manufacturer for testing. The group also completed Phoenix International Raceway, which will host NASCAR events this weekend.

The ISC Design & Development engineering and construction team overseeing the project has paved seven NASCAR-sanctioned tracks since 2003.

Besides completion of the two-mile oval, the 1.5-mile road course inside the oval was also paved and unveiled to media Thursday. The paving of the road course will enhance the speedway’s efforts to be a test bed for various R&D opportunities, while allowing the racetrack to host karting and car club activities.

“We have always wanted to host as many activities as we can at MIS, bringing additional business and tourism to our region, along with an improved testing facility that is now even more attractive for groups wanting to test their respective technologies here,” Curtis said. “This is our plan and our brand to showcase MIS to new and potential guests.”

With paving complete, a few small projects remain to round out all the track work, including landscape restoration, reinstallation of the NASCAR scoring loops and painting the start-finish line.

This is the fourth repave in the track’s history. The track was built in 1968, and repaved in 1977, 1986 and 1995.

During the latest project, 22,000 tons of asphalt was placed on the surface, enough to construct about 5 ½ miles of a two-lane county road.

Milling of the race track began following the August race weekend and took approximately three weeks to complete. Three-quarters of an inch of asphalt was taken off the top during the milling process. The project required three inches of total pavement laid down. The track was paved in two layers with each layer 1 ½ inches thick for a total of three inches. Therefore, the track is now approximately 2 ¼ inches higher than it was previously.

Renewals for 2012 are under way. Guests have until Nov. 18 to ensure they get the best pricing for next season and automatically entered for a trip to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Awards Ceremony in Las Vegas on Dec. 2. New guests can place a $10 refundable deposit to take advantage of the best pricing for 2012 by calling 800.354.1010.

Nestled in the lush Irish Hills of Southeastern Michigan, Michigan International Speedway is a Great Escape, a venerable NASCAR national park where race fans and sports fans can get away and enjoy the very best in racing and camaraderie. It’s the fun of NASCAR and the thrill of a great time for guests and drivers alike.

You can also visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MISpeedway or Tweet with us @MISpeedway.

PHOTO: A car from the Mach 1 Racing School taking the first laps on the newly paved 2-mile MIS oval is attached to this e-mail for media use. Credit MIS.

From Dennis Worden / MIS

IndyCar ‘Rookie of the Year’ Reflects on 2011 Season - James Hinchcliffe Q&A

Toronto, Ontario (November 09, 2011) – James Hinchcliffe, the 2011 IndyCar Series 'Sunoco Rookie of the Year', enjoyed a stellar debut season in North America's premier open-wheel racing category.  The 24-year-old Canadian piloted the No.06 Sprott Inc. Newman/Haas Racing entry to numerous top-ten finishes, including three season-best fourth-place finishes at Long Beach, Loudon and Kentucky. 

Placing 12th overall in the final 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series Driver Standings, James collected rookie honours despite missing the opening round of the season at St. Petersburg.  With a no-less hectic off-season schedule, the Toronto-born racer managed to take some time out to look back on an eventful year. 

Q:  IndyCar 'Rookie of the Year' – What does that title mean to you? 

James Hinchcliffe (JH):  "It means quite a bit.  It was obviously the goal from the start of the year, but from the start we were on the back foot after missing St Pete.  The team was super motivated to try and still end up on top, and I think that it says a lot about the effort we put up.  It's cool because it's the only title you can only go for one time.  The only downside is now some people are calling me Roy Hinchcliffe!  I had a lot of fun battling with JR, and I want to congratulate him on a really strong year." 

Q:  Was it a natural progression for you to move up into the IZOD IndyCar Series?  What, if any, were the key differences – other than speed, over your previous racing experiences? 

JH:  "The jump up felt right.  I think my time in the junior ranks really served me well.  For sure the biggest adjustment was the level of competition in the series.  If you don't get the absolute maximum out of your self, the car, the tires at all times, you will be left behind.  The racing was incredible.  The team really helped me prepare well for that.  On top of that, I really underestimated the amount of work off track!  This being an IndyCar driver really is a full time gig!" 

Q:  You enjoyed season long support from Eric Sprott and Sprott Inc.  A Canadian racer with a Canadian partner on the side of the car, describe the benefits to both parties. 

JH:  "It was honestly a dream come true. Getting my break in IndyCar with a Canadian sponsor was the perfect scenario.  Sprott were an incredible partner because they were new to motorsports but immediately saw the potential our relationship could have.  They operate in a fast paced industry and so do we.  They have been a large part of our success this year and I personally owe them a huge debt for helping me make this step up.  I hope to be involved with Sprott for many years." 

Q:  Newman/Haas Racing doesn't historically hire rookie drivers.  How did your relationship develop over the season and was there any pressure racing for one of motorsports marquee teams? 

JH:  "Of course there was pressure!  There would have been pressure with any team, but knowing that I was getting the chance to run with a championship winning team added quite a bit.  Like you said, they don't often hire rookies and so I really wanted to live up to their expectations and prove that they made the right choice.  Their faith in me was huge and that gave me a lot of confidence.  We had an instant chemistry and really grew stronger every race weekend.  I have a great relationship with every single member on the team, and that means a lot to me." 

Q:  You've obviously laid down a solid marker in terms of establishing your presence in IndyCar.  What are your options currently for the 2012 season? 

JH:  "Well I recently got a call from Domino's looking for a quick pizza delivery driver!  Seriously though, it's been very humbling to see the amount of interest there has been for 2012.  Obviously next year is going to be a big challenge for all the teams and drivers with the new car, and so having teams willing to bet their season on you is flattering.  But there is still work to be done to make it all happen." 

Q:  Describe your 2011 team-mate Oriol Servia in three words? 

JH:  "Intelligent.  Committed.  Rapid.  If I was allowed to add a fourth word it would be espresso." 

Q:  You only had a couple of opportunities to race directly against Dan Wheldon in IndyCar.  Can you share your experiences with Dan on and off track? 

JH:  "My first on track experience with Dan was during Indy this year. He was so open to giving advice and helping me out.  I always knew that if I had a question, Dan would answer it.  He gave me a lot of good advice throughout May and it meant a lot that he always had time for me.  Off track, luckily, I knew Dan better. I had been seeing him around the track and at events ever since I got to Lights in 2009.  

"I remember a brilliant night with him after the awards banquet last year in Homestead.  But I also got to race against him in a charity go-kart race that Graham (Rahal) set up on the Wednesday of the Vegas week.  He wasn't even scheduled to come, but heard about it at the autograph session and is always willing to help out a good cause.  We ended up having a great battle the last few laps with Mike Conway, Brian Clauson and a few guys.   

"Banging wheels and bumping, it was hilarious. I was crying in my helmet I was laughing so hard, and most of it was instigated by Dan!  At the end, we got out of the karts and he pulled off his helmet and was wearing that devious, million dollar smile.  I'll never forget that.  I am so happy he came that night. It is my last personal memory of him." 

Q:  You've been nominated for the 'Rookie of the Year' award at the prestigious Autosport Awards, being held in London next month, and RACER magazine placed you sixth overall in their 'Top 10 IndyCar Drivers of 2011' analysis.  How do you view such recognition? 

JH:  "With disbelief mainly!  But it's good to see that all my bribe money is paying off! It is just weird to see my name up there with those guys.  I have been a fan of racing much longer than I've been a driver, and so it is in some ways surreal to be recognized like that.  But it is also incredibly satisfying.  As a team, we were proud of what we accomplished this year. Even without any outside mention.  Having respected people in the industry acknowledge a good effort is a very welcome cherry on top." 

Q:  We know with the introduction of the new Dallara IndyCar chassis, named the DW12, that it's going to be a busy off-season with testing.  In addition to those test duties, what else do you have lined up over the next couple of months? 

JH:  "Well I can't wait to get my hands on a DW12!  Developing a new car has been one of the things about reaching the top level that I dreamed about.  I love that challenge.  Sadly I have to wait until the New Year to drive one, so until then I am keeping busy.  

"I spent some time in England on vacation visiting family.  Then I'll be heading to Vegas for a conference, back to England for the Autosport Awards and hopefully an outing in the Dan Wheldon Memorial kart race currently being organized, then finally I'll be competing in the Granja Viana 500 race in Brazil!  I am looking forward to all of it!" 

Q:  Finally, what or who surprised you the most from your rookie year in the IZOD IndyCar Series? 

JH:  "Wow, good question!  I would have to say just the entire Indy 500 experience.  You hear so much going into it for the first time, but nothing, and I mean nothing, prepares you.  The whole month, start to finish is just the most incredible event.  I'll always remember my first Indy 500 and I'll always look forward to my next." 

www.hinchtown.com  / @hinchtown

Ron Sutton Winner's Circle... Talent search extended and test dates added

SACRAMENTO, California - Star Racing Supply added $52,000 to the sponsorships to be awarded in the annual talent search conducted by Ron Sutton's Winner's Circle, bringing the total to $320,000 in racing sponsorships available to young drivers. The continuous flow of talented drivers submitting resumes has prompted officials to schedule an additional Shoot-Out weekend in early December and extend the deadline for applications to November 30th, 2011. 

"Each year the number of drivers applying grows due to our successes on track and with our drivers careers progressing.  But I think the increase in sponsorships, reduced test fee and reputation of developing winning drivers have all led to the increase in applications to our Shoot-Out this year.  We can only process them so fast, so we're extending the deadline and scheduling an additional Shoot-Out test weekend to allow all talented young drivers time to apply," stated president Ron Sutton.

The nationally acclaimed driver development program is focused on finding top young drivers and developing them towards professional Stock Car careers.  Talented drivers will be selected to participate in an extensive driver training and testing event known as "The Shoot-Out." In recent years the event was expanded to two weekends to accommodate drivers' schedules. This year, RSWC is increasing the event to three test weekends.  The first two groups of drivers test in November, and now a third group will be able to test in early December. 

Ron Sutton's Winner's Circle is considered the most comprehensive driver career development program, having established itself with RSWC drivers testing in front of NASCAR Cup Teams at a North Carolina Talent Combine, arranging an individual driver testing and signing with an Cup Development Team in ARCA and guiding a driver into the NASCAR Drive for Diversity program and NASCAR's K&N Pro Series.

The amount of the sponsorships awarded by Star Racing Supply has been increased by $2,000 per driver, now ranging from $8,000 to $20,000.  Star also added six sponsorships, bringing the total number of drivers to 24 that can earn sponsorship money towards their racing in 2012. 

The talented drivers selected for the RSWC racing career development program will have a racing career focused training program designed specifically for them, their age, experience and development stage, including classes, on track training, racing series, career guidance and race team placement in the racing series that fits the driver best, including road racing, USAC Midgets, Sprint Cars, NASCAR Modifieds & Late Model Stock Cars.

RSWC has developed many young racers to successfully make the transition from youth racing series to winning races in NASCAR Oval Track series, including Jessica Brunelli, Steve Cote, Beau DeBard, Bobby Grewohl, Joey Licata, Jace Meier, Benny Moon, Nik Romano, Bobby Runyan, Porter Smith and more.

At the Shoot-Out, Ron Sutton and veteran RSWC Drivers, coach the test drivers on track and in the pits. The race cars each feature radio communications and a GPS satellite data acquisition system to help the RSWC Engineers guide and advise the young drivers, while evaluating their skills. RSWC Coaches use that data and their experience to help the drivers consistently improve to run 100% by the end of the day. Afterwards each driver receives an objective, factual driver skill evaluation and report card on how they did, as well as a copy of their data.

Sutton added, "There are no race teams at this level where young drivers can go and receive this much race car experience, data, engineering, coaching, classroom training, track time and true driver evaluation for only $2200. Plus they have the opportunity to earn a spot in our development program and be awarded $8,000 to $20,000 in sponsorship money towards their racing. Whether selected to be in our program or not, being chosen for the Shoot-Out is an honor in itself, and participating in it is a great value to young upcoming drivers."

The comprehensive driver development program consists of six racing organizations fielding 30 race teams, 12 veteran driver coaches, 26 classroom training topics, 30 On-Track-Training programs and well known trainers, all dedicated to develop talented drivers to professional Stock Car racing.

Families of young, winning drivers, ages 11 to 20, are encouraged to get detailed information from the web-site and submit their resume before the newly extended deadline of November 30th, 2011. The web-site is www.Winners-Circle-Racing.com

About Ron Sutton's Winner's Circle: Ron Sutton's Winner's Circle is an established talent scout and development program, providing long term, comprehensive racing and career development for up and coming drivers focused on professional Stock Car careers. RSWC drivers are raced, coached, groomed, trained and molded, within a professional racing environment, into what top teams look for when hiring drivers. Drivers involved in the program race in a variety of cars, including SCCA Road Racing, USAC Young Guns Focus Midgets, USAC Ford Focus Midgets, NASCAR Grand American Modifieds, NASCAR Late Model stock cars and NASCAR K&N Pro Series Stock Cars. More information is available at the web-site: www.Winners-Circle-Racing.com

Photos by Tiffany Bugos // Release from Ron Sutton's Winner's Circle // E-mail:  Ron@Winners-Circle-Racing.com

NASCAR: Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Teleconference Transcript (November 8, 2011)

DALE EARNHARDT, JR., NO. 88 RETRO DIET MOUNTAIN DEW/NATIONAL GUARD CHEVROLET, was the guest on the NASCAR Weekly Teleconference. Full transcript: An interview with DALE EARNHARDT, JR.

THE MODERATOR:  We are now joined by Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Dale is coming off of two consecutive top-10 finishes and he has two wins at Phoenix International Raceway.

Our Twitter question today is:  How do you feel about Kasey Kahne being your new teammate next season?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  I'm looking forward to Kasey becoming a driver over at Hendrick Motorsports.  He's been a pretty good friend of mine for a long time.  I think he's a good talent.

Even more importantly than that, I'm excited about Kenny Francis coming as his crew chief.  Anytime you can sort of infuse new ideas of thinking, new ways of putting cars together, bring those ideas in, let them sort of play themselves out, that's a lot of fun for a driver.

So looking forward to seeing what Kenny can bring into the fold.  Kasey is going to be a lot of fun to hang out with.

THE MODERATOR:  We'll go to the media for questions for Dale Earnhardt, Jr.

Q.  How do you feel about being comfortable at Hendrick Motorsports, understanding how things work and the progress you've made this year?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  I think it could always come along a little faster.  We could always be winning races, running up front a little more often.  I'm pretty happy with seeing some improvement.  It does give me confidence that we'll be better next year.

Just look forward to continue working with Steve Letarte and the whole team and trying to improve.  Just keep working away at it and seeing how much better we can get.

We definitely have shown some signs that we can get it done.  We just need to keep working and trying to become better.

Q.  Have you ever seen video of the Kyle Busch/Ron Hornaday incident from Friday and what you thought of NASCAR's reaction to it?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  Like everybody else, I was kind of shocked that it happened.  I know as a racecar driver you forget really how many people are watching and what's going on.  I've made similar mistakes, done things that I regret.

I know Kyle probably wishes to move past it.  I'm sure he's going to learn a lesson from it one way or another.  He'll be a better driver and a better person for it in the end.

I thought that the punishment fit the crime.  NASCAR has done similar things in the past when the same situation has happened.  I like the mentality that they've had over the last year or two with letting us sort of settle things on the racetrack, but there's a line you can't cross.  NASCAR knows where that is.  I'm glad that that's there.  I'm glad there's some things that just aren't going to be put up with.

So it was good to see some good reaction from NASCAR.

Q.  There's been a question of what is the line.  When you saw that, did you feel that was over the line?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  I thought it was the wrong thing to do, definitely.  I don't really care where the line is.  I don't need a firm understanding of what's right, what's wrong, where everything lies.  I just want NASCAR to be a sanctioning body that's fair.  I want them to punish wrongdoing and award people for doing things the right way and just continue to go down that path.

Q.  To what degree is your confidence better this year as opposed to the last two seasons?  Was it a big boost in your psyche to have the year like you had?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  I was struggling pretty bad to be competitive, to feel competitive in the last couple years.  I felt like I was in good enough equipment.  I felt like that the crew chiefs I was working with, the team that was around me, was good enough.  It was very frustrating to not know why I wasn't able to do what I thought my potential was.

I was worried when I was paired with Steve, whether I would continue along those same lines.  Would I eventually have to sort of look within myself for the problem.

Having seen some improvement, having seen how close we came to winning a few races this year, how consistently we're running, overall the statistics, my position in points, just being relevant and visible has been a big deal to me.

Q.  You have had success at Phoenix.  Totally different track now.  Do you suspect you might have a good race this weekend or too many unknowns?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  There are a lot of unknowns.  But I expect to have a good race every time we go to the racetrack.  This weekend will be no different.

Q.  Are you going to be here in Daytona for the test next week?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  Yes, sir.

Q.  What is the biggest goal that you have in terms of your team and that racecar at Daytona?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  My big goal is to help NASCAR accomplish what their goals are in the test.  Apparently they put this test together last minute for a reason.  We'll go down there and they'll let us know exactly what they're wanting to do, what they're trying to accomplish, what they're trying to try.

I want to be able to give them the best feedback I can to give them the solutions they're looking for so that we can, with confidence, go into Daytona in February and expect to put together a great show for the fans that will be there and that will be watching on TV.

It's a little bit different than what your typical goals are when you go testing.  Most of the time they're a little more personal, like you're trying to do whatever you can to make your car fast, work with your team, learn, put together notes.  This test here will be a little different where you're working with NASCAR and the goals will be a little different.  You'll have to open your mind up a little bit to try new things and try to give the best feedback you can.  It's really important.

Q.  Are you waiting to see what they bring to the table or do you have some definite ideas of what you'd like to see them try?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  I think that the ideas that I have that I hope that we'll try are very similar to theirs.  I'm sure they're going to bring every feasible option and we'll try to get that out on the racetrack.

The difficult part is going to be simulating race conditions.  Say they bring out a small spoiler, this, that and the other, we got to go out there and try to push each other around the racetrack with it, hope that that doesn't work.  It could be potentially a dangerous situation.  You got to be careful and you hope to have a safe test.

You want to help NASCAR.  I want to help NASCAR.  I want to be an ambassador for the sport, do my part, make the sport better.  That's what that day will be about.

Q.  Dale, for all the years you've raced with and against Tony, can you discuss a little bit what makes him so tough and what attribute of his you still aspire to match, that you feel you might be short on?  What makes him so tough?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  Well, I think Tony has a lot of ingredients that makes up the talent he is.  Just trying to pull something up, he has his background, his experience, where he raced, where he learned to race, how much he raced when he was younger I think molded him to the type of driver he is today.

He's very hot-tempered at times.  That I think adds to his personality, adds to what his fans appreciate about him, make him the driver and the talent that he is.

I don't really know what particular attribute he might have that I wish I had.  Everybody's different.  Everybody's personality is different.  I can appreciate Tony for who he is, how he is.  He's been a pretty good friend to me.  He's been great for the sport, been great for the sport.  I like the fact he loses his cool every once in a while and puts his foot down.  You like to hear honesty from people.  You always know where you stand with him.  I think that's a great attribute of his, is he's very forward and up front.  That's how you want people to be.

Q.  Now that Danica has finally made the announcement she's going with Tony Stewart Racing, can you talk about what her greatest challenges will be when she makes her debut at NASCAR's top level?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  I haven't drove a lot of Nationwide races in the last couple of years.  But the ones that I have drove, I find that that car is a lot easier to drive than the COT at the Cup level, a great amount easier.  I feel like that her biggest challenge will be the frustrations with how the COT drives and how you're trying to get it to handle and do different things.  There's just some things this car is not going to do.  There's some things that no matter what your crew chief tries to change, there's gains you cannot make.  It's going to do some things you don't like and you're going to just have to put up with it and learn how to drive it that way.  That's one of the things that I think probably will be difficult.

But I think she can achieve anything she wants.  I think she'll be able to get where she wants at the Cup level.  The difference between how the two cars drive is definitely going to be the biggest hurdle.

Q.  You know what it's like to have an iconic brand.  She does, as well.  Is she going to be more of a (indiscernible) in the early stages, having a female racing at that level?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  I think there will be a lot of attention.  There will be a lot of attention and pressure.  But she knows all about that.  She's been aware of that her entire career and dealt with it her entire career.  I don't see how that could be a problem.

Q.  Did you talk to Rick Hendrick recently, and if so how he's doing?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  I don't know when he'll come to the racetrack.  If I was him, I'd probably take the rest of the year off.  He got out of the hospital today.  He texted me.  I texted him about this weekend, how the race went, how I thought Steve did a good job to get the car running good on the last run.  He texted me back that he was happy.  He wants to see continued improvement.

I talked to him on the phone a couple days ago before I went to Texas.  He's in good spirits.  He's very sore.  He will have a little bit of recovery on his injuries, but for the most part he feels very fortunate.

Q.  Dale, a lot of people don't understand, we've tried to explain this with other drivers, you have two races to go, you're in the Chase, but all those other 43 cars out there on the track, they're going for the big purse also.  It makes it kind of different, doesn't it, when a guy is not in the Chase and he's going for the flag to win?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  Yeah, but that's what you expect from everybody.  Everybody shows up to the race to win.  Everybody shows up to the race to run hard.  Everybody's style is pretty much the same, even though there is a Chase, there are 10 drivers racing for a championship.  Getting further into the season, there's two guys legitimately going after the title.  You realize that when you're on the racetrack in the car, but you don't change what you're doing, do things differently.  You're out there driving your car the best you can do, as fast as you can go, working on your car, thinking about your car.  You're so consumed with that that you quickly forget about other things like the championship battle.

The only thing that really matters is that next corner, what the car's going to do, what you think it should do, how you can help your crew chief get to that point.  That's all you're worried about.

Q.  Earlier we had Brad Keselowski on.  I asked him about him starting his Truck team.  He basically said he was following in your footsteps by paying it forward.  He's trying to build a team to give a young guy a chance.  What do you think about that?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  I think that's a great way to look at it.  I appreciate him giving any kind of credit toward us for molding who he is today in the decisions and the choices he's making now.

It's not an easy task being an owner.  I don't implore every driver with an opportunity to start a race team.  It's good to see someone successful, like Brad, to turn around and begin building a program like that, and that program has potential not only to be a Cup team but maybe into the Nationwide Series one day, eventually into the Cup Series one day.  I'm sure more drivers down the line in history going forward will do a lot of similar things, as well.

It's fun knowing that - for me - I feel like I gave to the sport as a driver.  But it's great to have an avenue to give more and to do more and to leave your fingerprint or your mark on the sport in other ways other than just statistically as a driver.  I think Brad's enjoying that.

Q.  Tony Stewart basically drives a car that's prepared at Hendrick.  He uses Hendrick bodies and motors, gets technical assistance.  When they bring it over to his shop, are they just sprinkling pixie dust on it or what?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  Actually, it's not prepared at Hendrick.  They get the chassis and the motors and everything completely separate and they prepare the car themselves.  I'm sure that they have different theories and ideas on geometry, rayon links, what ball joints to use, how to bump steer the car, lower A-frame mounts, things like that.

I'm sure that they are not identical and all six of us, counting the Haas team, are not putting identical cars on the racetrack.  There's different variables throughout the entire car even within Hendrick between the teams.  Every crew chief has an opinion on what's best, and not everyone is handcuffed to one ideology about building cars, setting up cars.

You have to give Darian Grubb a lot of credit.  You have to give Tony Stewart a lot of credit.  He's not only a great driver, but he puts a lot great people around in the right places to be able to manage and be a solid owner in the sport.  Darian Grubb has done a great job of managing the team, putting the right setup in it, making Tony happy as a driver.

It comes down to individuals and also how those individuals interact with the vehicle.  They definitely have a big role in preparing their own car and developing their own success.

Q.  Do you think the Skins' defense is going to handle Miami this weekend?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  Miami is not one of the tougher teams in the NFL.  I hope that they can get a win.  They need a win.  They need some good quarterback play.  That's all I'm worried about right now.

Q.  If you had to start a guy, would you start Fred Davis or Tony Gonzalez?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  I'm not allowed to talk about Fantasy Football anymore.  Jimmy Spencer jumped on my ass for even mentioning it.

Q.  You're saying I should call him up?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  Yeah, call him up (laughter).

Q.  Dale, in the wake of all that's going on with the Kyle Busch situation, fans are trying to draw lines between his driving style and your dad's driving style.  Is there any similarity there?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  Yeah, I mean, I think you'll find a lot of similarities in my father with a lot of drivers in the sport.  Everybody sort of takes different things and different attributes from different drivers as they're growing up, maybe appreciate certain parts and certain ways people handle things and try to emulate them.

My father was quite aggressiveness, especially in the '80s.  I don't know why, but when he went to the black car, which we thought he would be more aggressive, he just became intimidating and not quite as aggressive.  He wasn't running over people quite as much.

I think you appreciate things about people and you try to make that part of you, part of what you want to convey, who you want to be.

I think that changes, too.  As you grow up, get older, you sort of let go of certain things and pick up new things, change as a person.

Q.  You and Steve Letarte have a great chemistry this year.  Is there one thing that you have worked on together or is it just a combined kind of meeting of the minds that you have to hit on a great stride this year?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  Yeah, I was thinking about it after the Texas race.  Me and Steve haven't had one argument the entire year.  I've had some choice words for the racecar, but we've never had a disagreement.  I can't think of one year in my entire career where I went an entire season without some sort of disagreement at some point with my crew chief.

I'm happy to give him all the credit.  I'm not sure exactly where the credit lies, but I'm happy to give it to him because he has such responsibility and he has a heck of a workload and he works very hard at what he's done.  He's very observant and thinks really hard about what he's doing, how he's doing it, how it's going to affect everything around him.  I can really appreciate him.

I think that in turn, the way he operates, makes me and everyone else on the team sort of jump on the wagon with him and want to help, want to push it along and help.  So he's good at that.  He's good at his position.

I was telling him after Texas, I really hated the car in the middle part of the race.  He made some changes.  They worked hard.  We ended up with a good finish.  I thought the car was quite competitive at the end.  I told him, That's why you're a Cup-level crew chief because of what you did today.  I thought he should be really proud of himself and what he's been able to do with this team.

Q.  Is he a calming force when you're complaining at the car, does he help to calm you down and refocus you?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  I think I open the door a lot of times for things to go negatively in our communication.  I've been working really hard at that, to try to change that.  But I do open the door a lot of times to sort of invite him into disagreement.  He's pretty good at avoiding it.  He's really good at it.

Q.  During the Kurt Busch-Jimmie Johnson conflict this summer, Kurt talked about getting into Jimmie's head.  Do you think that type of mental interference on focus, mind game type thing, is that common in NASCAR?  If so, what's the best way for a driver like you and others to handle that?

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  I think it's common all the time in everything, not just NASCAR.  Something gets in your head, something ticks you off, bothers you.  People always say, Don't take it out on me.  Well, you sort of get mad about one thing, maybe somebody did something to you, maybe something didn't go the way you wanted, the next person you have communication with sort of takes the brunt of that blow.  So something got in your head and in turn disrupted a totally separate part of your day or something else going on in your life.  That happens all the time, in sports, too.  I don't think drivers are any better or worse at it.

But some guys are easily intimidated and some guys are not.  It just depends on the character.

THE MODERATOR:  Thank you, everyone, for your participation.  Dale, best of luck this weekend in Phoenix.

DALE EARNHARDT, JR.:  Thank you, appreciate it.

From Chevrolet

Reviewing A Year At The Wheel With Kyle Marcelli

(Barrie, Ontario) November 8th 2011 – For 21-year old Race Driver Kyle Marcelli, 2011 proved to be a successful year at the office. Just four weeks ago the 14th Annual Petit Le Mans marked the completion of the 2011 American Le Mans Series Presented by Tequila Patron.

2011 saw Marcelli drive full-time for Intersport Racing in the American Le Mans Series alongside a few different co-drivers including Tomy Drissi, Chapman Ducote, David Ducote, Rusty Mitchell and Luca Moro. Marcelli also drove part-time alongside Chapman Ducote in the European Le Mans Series for Monaco based JMB Racing. With the race season now to a close, Marcelli added a number of new professional statistics into his already impressive resume including; three pole positions, three class wins, eight podiums positions and two new lap records.

After a two-month break, the series was back in action for The Grand Prix of long Beach. Intersport Racing was confident in Marcelli and Drissi to bounce back. Doing just that, Marcelli qualified the car P2. After exchanging the lead multiple times throughout the one hour and forty minute race with the #06 Core Autosport entry, Marcelli and Drissi finished second place earning valuable championship points.

“After Sebring’s upset it was important for us to show well in Long Beach. I knew we had the pace to do so, it was just a matter of everyone doing their job.” Said Marcelli

(In this photo: Chapman Ducote, Kyle Marcelli - Celebrations after their Imola win).

A phone call from Race Driver/Entrepreneur Chapman Ducote was all it took to get Marcelli on a plane across the Atlantic for the fourth round of the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup at the famed Imola Racing Circuit. Making his European debut, Marcelli had been brought on to co-drive with Chapman Ducote and Frenchman Nicholas Marroc for Monaco’s JMB Racing in their #99 LMPC entry. Having little time to get acquainted to a new car, new team and new circuit, Marcelli showed like a true professional getting up to speed. Impressively, the six-hour endurance race ran green flag from start to finish. Marcelli was opted by the team to both start and finish the race. With Ducote and Marroc driving successful stints and handing the wheel to Marcelli in P2. Marcelli was able to push for the last hour and re-take the lead earning the win. The victory marked JMB Racing’s first LMS win as well as the first LMS win for Marcelli, Ducote and Marroc.

“It was a weekend of new for both myself and Chapman. I was very impressed with the series and the atmosphere of auto-racing in Europe. To win at Imola was certainly very special and a victory I will always remember.” Stated Marcelli

Next on the calendar was the “Bull Ring”, a 1.5-mile circuit in Lakeville, Connecticut known as Lime Rock Park. After struggles at the start, of the race the duo of Drissi and Marcelli raced to another podium finishing P3.

(In this photo: Kyle Marcelli and guests outside turn 1 at the Grand Prix of Mosport).

Post Lime Rock Park was the only Canadian stop on the schedule. Mosport International Raceway, located in Bomanville, Ontario. This was the fourth round of the American Le Mans Series and the home grand prix for Barrie, Ontario native Kyle Marcelli. With a crowd of 80,000.00 plus attendees, Marcelli thrilled the local fans as he qualified the #89 Intersport Racing LMPC on pole position, setting a new lap record of a 1:11.3 beating previous record holder, Mexico’s Luis Diaz. Many eager friends, family and local sponsors were gathered to cheer on Marcelli. Unfortunately, as countless fans expected to see Marcelli in victory lane, the Mosport Grand Prix would end in sadness for the local hero as a spinning GTC car made contact with the rear of the #89 causing suspension damage and ending the much anticipated day for the talented Canadian. Marcelli did however set the fast lap of the race.

With frustration from the Grand Prix of Mosport, Marcelli was eager to win in Ohio. Upon swapping fast lap after fast lap with Core Autosports Gunnar Jeanette, it was Jeanette that topped the charts in qualifying with Marcelli a close second.

On race day, overcast skies ahead gave teams and drivers an unknown going into the two hour forty-five minute race. Marcelli was back in the car with LA’s Tomy Drissi. Drissi had the driving duties for the first stint then handed things over to Marcelli. Marcelli set fast lap of the race and took the lead with about one hour to go. However, following the final round of pit stops, Marcelli found himself in second behind the Intersport Racing sister car of Jon Field. With about 30 minutes remaining, the clouds had opened up causing heavy rain. This created excitement within the fans but a race of survival for the drivers. Veteran driver Jon Field and rising talent Kyle Marcelli exchanged the lead multiple times per lap. The final pass was made by Marcelli around the outside of Field in turn one to take the lead, this secured the victory as the lap following officials threw the red flag due to very pour visibility and large volumes of standing water. Shortly thereafter, officials waved the checkered. Earning a one-two finish for Intersport Racing was the #89 driven by Drissi and Marcelli and the #37 driven by father and son pairing of Jon and Clint Field.

“This was a special win not only for Tomy and I but for Intersport Racing as well. Everyone played their role perfect and the result showed. I had so much fun racing wheel to wheel with Jon, his experience made me a better racer.” Said Marcelli

Teams travelled to Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin to one of America’s premier circuits, the 4.5-mile, 17-turn, Road America. Marcelli had been employed by Performance Tech Motorsports as a one-off to drive alongside Anthony Nicolosi and Jarrett Boon in the #18 LMPC. After overcoming some gremlins in practice, Marcelli was elected to qualify the car. Putting a smile on the staff at Performance Tech, Marcelli sat atop the time charts until just the final lap when Butch Lightzinger and Gunnar Jeanette put in a lap time only hundredths better. This moved Marcelli back to P3, missing the pole by only 0.012 (twelve hundredths), this marked the closest qualification in LMPC history.

Anthony Nicolosi had started the race, unfortunately after a promising start it was a small mistake on the entrance to the carousel that put him into the gravel trap and down 2 laps. Although the team worked hard to get laps back, it wasn’t meant to be. A weekend that started out with such promise sadly ended in frustration.

Following Road America, Marcelli was back at home with Intersport Racing for the inaugural Baltimore Grand Prix. Taking place on the streets of downtown Baltimore next to the inner harbor, it was the site of world-class wheel-to-wheel auto racing. It was a sold out crowd of over 140,000 fans. For Kyle Marcelli and Tomy Drissi it marked their second victory in three races.

“I really enjoy temporary street circuits. As a driver, it’s a rush to get everything out of the car and use every inch of the road. Tomy did a wonderful in his stint and the team executed perfect pit stops. Our pace was very close to the pace of the LMP1, I thought for a while we had a shot at the overall win.” Said Kyle Marcelli

September was a near full month for Marcelli. It was another flight across the Atlantic, this time to London, England for the fifth round of the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup held at Silverstone Circuit. Marcelli was back in the #99 JMB Racing LMPC with co-pilot Chapman Ducote and this time Luca Moro as the third driver. Silverstone is a world-class auto-racing facility home to the Formula One British Grand Prix.

Silverstone recently had additions made to the first sector of the circuit as well as a new pit-lane facility. Qualifying proved to be exciting. Marcelli was behind the wheel and conditions were cold and overcast, typical for England. For GT qualifying the circuit was dry, however minutes before prototype qualifying it began to rain. Many thought that maybe a GT car would sit on the over pole position for the race. Luckily, with about 10 minutes remaining the rain had stopped. Prototype teams quickly pulled out the slick racing tires from the tire warmers, bolted them on and sent drivers onto the track to get a lap in. Impressively, Marcelli with little experience on the circuit qualified P2. For the six-hour race, Luca Moro was behind the wheel for the first stint, then Chapman Ducote, then Kyle Marcelli to finish. The race was drama filled yet featured only one full-course caution. An early mistake in the pits made for a long race of plying catch up. Although Marcelli had been matching the pace of the leader, time had run out and the #99 JBM Racing entry

The penultimate round of the American Le Mans Series was held in beautiful Monterey, California at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Intersport Racing continued to be the team to beat as Canada’s Kyle Marcelli earned his second LMPC pole position of 2011. Co-driving with the brother duo of Chapman and David Ducote, the six-hours of Laguna Seca would prove to be a race of attrition. The 40-car field featuring some of the world’s best drivers and most advanced machinery raced bumper to bumper until the checkered flag. The #89 Intersport Racing entry of Marcelli, Ducote, Ducote would earn another podium, finishing a respected P3 this marked two international podiums in only six days.

The 14th Annual Petit Le Mans attested to be an emotional weekend for Kyle Marcelli and the Intersport Racing family. A maximum grid allowance of 53 cars meant cutbacks to the LMPC and GTC classes. This required Intersport Racing to enter only the #89.

However, due to class cutbacks the ALMS allowed teams to enter a four-driver line-up for the 10-hour race. With Marcelli initially out of a drive, this allowed the team to put Kyle back in the car with the Ducote brothers and Tomy Drissi. After being at or near the top of the timing charts through each free practice, it was the final practice before qualifying when things took a dramatic turn for the worst. David Ducote was involved in a serious collision with the Robertson Racing GT-40 at the exit of the very high-speed turn one. The accident left the #89 LMPC in pieces and airlifted driver David Ducote to the hospital. After being unconscious, David thankfully left the hospital injury free. In the meantime, the crew raced the clock for the next three hours to re-build the car for qualifying. Team driver Kyle Marcelli was strapped in to the repaired car and shined as he remarkably qualified on pole position with a 1:14.848, this also proved to be a new qualifying lap record beating previous record holder Luis Diaz.

(In this photo: Tomy Drissi, Chapman Ducote, Kyle Marcelli – Post Petit Le Mans qualifying).

“Mentally I took Kyle Marcelli out of the car and put Jon Field in.” Said Kyle Marcelli.

“At the time we were still all unsure of David’s condition. I had a job to do and I was ready to do whatever it took. The team worked so hard to get the car on track for qualifying, I’m so happy to have earned them the pole position.” Said Marcelli.

The Petit Le Mans, a 10hour of 1000km race is said to be one of the most challenging events for both man and machine. As Marcelli and co-drivers Tomy Drissi and Chapman Ducote arrived to the track early Saturday morning, the team informed them of the news. They had been moved to the back of the grid due to an unfortunate protest against Marcelli’s qualifying efforts. As it turned out, switching to the back-up #37 tub was not an issue providing you use the major components from the #89. Although the #89 had passed post-qualifying technical inspection, many were questioning Marcelli’s incredible performance in qualifying. Sadly, some thought the wrong restrictor was in the car. However, this information proved to be false. Nevertheless, rules are rules and that meant Marcelli had his work cut out at the start of the race. With the drop of the green flag, Marcelli went from last to first in only eleven laps! After shuffling through the driver line-up over the next several hours, the #89 remained at or near the top of the charts. Marcelli was back in for the final two-hours of the race where he led for majority of that time. It was with only seven laps remaining that a full-course caution occurred which bunched up the field. With only three laps to go, the race went green. Marcelli was third in line on the restart with two LMP2’s behind him then the second place LMPC of Ryan Lewis. After holding them off for the first lap, the LMP2’s would soon find a way by Marcelli into turn six. This gave Lewis a good run and allowed him to draft by Marcelli. With only one lap remaining, the crowd was on their toes. Lewis drove defensive and Marcelli tried to find a way by, unfortunately the two crossed the finish line nosed to tail separated by only 0.172. The #89 of Marcelli, Ducote and Drissi would earn a well-respected second place.

“It was an emotional weekend for everyone under the Intersport banner. It was heartbreaking to loose the lead on the last lap but I think we accomplished a lot this weekend. It’s been a strong second half of the season for us, it’s just a shame we had a rough start to the season otherwise I think we would have been racing for more than just the win but the championship as well.” Said Marcelli.

Having earned three pole positions, three class wins, eight podiums positions and two new lap records it was two uncontrollable DNF’s at Sebring and Mosport which led Marcelli to finish third in the 2011 ALMS LMPC drivers championship. Marcelli was also awarded with the Michelin “Driver of the Year” which sends him to Mexico for a Baja experience.

While the dust still settles on an exciting year of world-class sports car racing, preparations for 2012 are already underway. For 21-year old Kyle Marcelli, he hopes to back full-time in American Le Mans Series and will continue to be working hard over the next several weeks in discussion with a few manufactures eager to earn a drive.

Kyle would personally like to thank each of his corporate partners from 2011 including: Lafarge (Turbo Plus), DynaPep Energy, Barrie Trim & Mouldings, Simcoe Building Centre, Thermo Seal Insulation Systems, Braille Battery, Merchant Services Ltd, Sailun Tires, Spherion Staffing Solutions, 104.1 The Dock, Leaf Racewear and Intersport Racing.

For more information on Race Driver Kyle Marcelli visit: www.kylemarcelliracing.com

Twitter.com/KyleMarcelli

Facebook.com/KyleMarcelli

 

 

 

 

 

2013 NISSAN GT-R GAINS 15 HORSEPOWER TO 545 HP TOTAL

MISSISSAUGA, ONT. (November 8, 2011)— Since its introduction, the iconic Nissan GT-R has had one goal in mind – never rest on its laurels. One of the most acclaimed supercars in automotive history, the Nissan GT-R is the ultimate expression of the Nissan brand and its “Innovation for All” philosophy. A multi-dimensional performance machine that lives up to the concept of “the ultimate supercar that can be driven by anyone, anytime, anywhere,” the Nissan GT-R receives a number of engine and suspension refinements for the 2013 model year, all designed to enhance its already legendary performance.

“The 2013 Nissan GT-R once again sends a bold statement that it remains on the leading edge of international sports car design, technology and performance,” said Judy Wheeler, Director of Marketing, Nissan Canada Inc. “It’s our desire to keep pushing the envelope, to never settle for second best or second place – a philosophy that makes Nissan GT-R one of the most coveted and affordable supercars in the world today.”

The major refinements to GT-R’s renowned engineering masterpiece of an engine include improved intake efficiency, reduced airflow resistance including an enlarged air intake duct for the intercooler, and improved exhaust emissions efficiency and enhanced control. The engine is hand-assembled in a special clean room, similar to racing powerplant construction. As a result, horsepower is rated at 545 hp, an increase of 15 hp over the 2012 GT-R’s 530 hp. Similarly, torque has been increased to 463 lb-ft from 448 lb-ft.

Transmission shift feel and quietness have been refined through a strengthened design of the shift fork arm and a firmer fixing bearing for the flywheel housing. Also, high performance differential oil, used in GT-R motorsports competition, is now standard for production models.

In addition, the suspension has been retuned and a handmade dry carbon rear spoiler has also been added to the Nissan GT-R Black Edition model. Other enhancements include the addition of a new blue lighting treatment inside the tachometer ring to match the shift position indicator light, helping provide a more sophisticated cockpit atmosphere. A RearView Monitor is now standard on all models.

The 2013 Nissan GT-R is scheduled to go on sale at select certified Canadian Nissan dealers in January 2012.

About the 2013 Nissan GT-R

Following a major revision just last year, the 2013 Nissan GT-R is offered in two models – GT-R Premium and the GT-R Black Edition with special lightweight black aluminum forged RAYS® wheels, unique read and black interior, Recaro® leather-appointed seats and new dry carbon fiber rear spoiler. The 2013 Nissan GT-R is once again anchored by an advanced 3.8-liter twin turbo V6 engine matched with a high-performance 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. Engine efficiency has been improved for the new model year, which helps raise horsepower to 545 hp (versus the previous 530 horsepower) and torque to 463 lb-ft (versus the previous 448 lb-ft). The engine is hand-assembled in a special clean room.

GT-R is built on an exclusive Premium Midship platform, which enables the use of the world’s first independent rear transaxle ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system. This system places the transmission, transfer case and final drive at the rear of the vehicle, optimizing weight distribution and maximizing handling capability.

Total vehicle adjustability is provided by a “set-up switch” located in the center of the instrument panel, enabling the driver to adjust transmission shifts, shock absorbers and the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC-R) among three settings – Normal, Special or “R,” for ultimate handling.

The Nissan GT-R suspension has been retuned for 2013. The vehicle again utilizes a special Bilstein DampTronic system, and the braking system consists of Brembo full-floating drilled rotors, low steel high stiffness brake pads and Brembo monoblock six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers.

The 2013 Nissan GT-R’s lightweight 10-spoke forged aluminum 20-inch RAYS® wheels feature a premium dark (near black) finish, which provides a high quality, high-performance look. They are mounted with Dunlop Sports Max GT 600 DSST CTT tires – P255/40ZRF20 in front and P285/35ZRF20 in the rear. The Black Edition features special metallic black six-spoke RAYS® lightweight wheels with Dunlop Sports Max GT 600 DSST CTT tires – P255/40ZRF20 in front and P285/35ZRF20 in the rear.

Nissan GT-R’s aerodynamics were improved last year with increased downforce and the coefficient of drag reduced to 0.26 (from 0.27). A new front fascia with aggressive double rectifier fins and integrated high intensity LED running lights was also added, enhancing the car’s strong visual presence. Other exterior features include high-mounted LED stoplights, bright LED rear combination taillights, “super wide beam” headlights, heated door mirrors and flat-blade windshield wipers. Six exterior colors are available for 2013: Deep Blue Pearl, Jet Black, Solid Red, Gun Metallic, Pearl White and a 4-stage metallic Super Silver.

Inside, Nissan GT-R’s four-passenger cabin again balances functionality with a sense of ease and comfort. It features sculpted performance bucket seats for an optimal driving position, a cockpit-style instrument panel with a large center-mounted tachometer and multi-function display – which includes mechanical and driving information, as well as an on-board driving recorder, and carbon fiber trim. The Black Edition adds custom red and black Recaro® leather-appointed seats, red and black interior trim and a dark headliner.

A specially designed 11-speaker Bose® sound system with speakers mounted in rigid aluminum die cast panels, which provides sound quality suitable for a supercar, is standard.

Additional standard equipment for 2013 includes a RearView Monitor, Nissan Navigation System with XM NavTraffic® with Real-Time Traffic Information (XM® subscription required, sold separately), and Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System.

Safety equipment includes a Nissan Advanced Air Bag System for driver and front passenger, front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags for driver and front-passenger and standard roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for front seat occupant head protection – along with front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters and tension reducers, and three-point ELR/ALR rear seat belts.

The 2013 Nissan GT-R is sold and serviced through 34 Nissan GT-R dealers in Canada that have attained “GT-R Certification” status by meeting a number of strict sales, service and facilities commitments – including dedicating a master technician to GT-R service, special training for service managers and technicians, and designating dealer principals, executive managers and general managers as the primary communicators and negotiators in sales transactions.

About Nissan

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Japan's second-largest automotive company, is headquartered in Yokohama, Japan, and is part of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Operating with more than 248,000 employees globally, Nissan provided customers with more than 4.1 million vehicles in 2010, generating revenue of 8.77 trillion yen ($102.37 billion US). With a strong commitment to developing exciting and innovative products for all, Nissan delivers a comprehensive range of 64 models under the Nissan and Infiniti brands. A pioneer in zero-emission mobility, Nissan made history with the introduction of the Nissan LEAF, the first affordable, mass-market, pure-electric vehicle and winner of numerous international accolades, including the prestigious 2011 European Car of the Year award and 2011 World Car of the Year.

Tabatha Murphy 2011 Season in Review; Murphy Motorsports Puts Disappointing Season in the Past and Looks Ahead to 2012

By Craig Revelle - Finish Line Web Design

When the 2011 racing season got underway for Tabatha Murphy and the Murphy Motorsports team, their focus was on their weekly racing program at Brockville Speedway. Throughout the season, Murphy also dabbled in events at Cornwall Speedway and Mohawk Raceway late in the season.

The first month of the season at Brockville was tough for Murphy, failing to post a top ten finish after the first four weeks of competition despite the hard work and dedication of both the driver and team. The first top ten finally came at the end of June with an impressive seventh place finish, after leading the opening laps of the race.

The bad luck that plagued the team in the opening month of the year returned in July, and she posted three consecutive DNF’s. She rebounded late in the month with another top ten, and scored a 15^th place finish in her only appearance of the year at Cornwall.

Although the team worked hard to battle through a tough season, luck was just not on their side, and after a disappointing month of August, with mechanical failures, and being at the wrong place at the wrong time, Murphy finished August with finishes well below what the team had hoped.

The 2011 season ended with the DIRTcar Fall Nationals at Brockville. 49 Sportsman cars entered, and Tabatha was able to make the starting field, qualifying through here heat race. Problems developed early, and Tabatha was not able to finish the race.

Plans for the 2012 racing season have not been finalized at this time, but it is certain that the team will be back at Brockville next season. With a little more luck on their side, the team hopes to be a top ten car in track points next season, and work on being more consistent throughout the season.

Tabatha Murphy would like to thank King Edward Auto Parts, Brockville Tractor Trailer Maintenance, Allan Bell and Associates, Reabel’s Plumbing, Splash Well Drilling and Finish Line Web Design for all of their support. We have worked hard this season to represent our sponsors proudly and we look forward to working with you all again in 2012.

To stay up to date with Tabatha Murphy and the Murphy Motorsports team throughout the off-season, log on to the team’s website at www.tabathamurphy.net. The website is updated weekly and it also contains information on Tabatha Murphy as well as direct links to our sponsor’s websites.

Tim O’Brien 2011 Season in Review; Busy Season Highlighted by Applefest Shootout Victory at Brighton Speedway

By Craig Revelle - Finish Line Web Design

The 2011 racing season was a busy one for Tim O’Brien and the Jim’s Performance Plus team. Racing weekly at Mohawk International Raceway, Brockville Speedway and Cornwall Speedway, O’Brien had three victories this season, and posted 36 top ten finishes in the 46 events that he entered.

When the season got underway in late April, O’Brien started racing at Can Am Motorsports Park for the first three weeks. He was the defending 358 Modified champion at the track, and started the year off with three consecutive top ten finishes, including a third place finish in the final race before switching to Mohawk Raceway when they opened in the middle of May, along Brockville and Cornwall.

When the season got underway at O’Brien’s three main tracks this season, he started out with some mixed results. At Brockville, he was able to score fourth place finishes in the first four events of the season. Cornwall started out slow for O’Brien, finally posting his first top five at the track in his fourth start of the year. At Mohawk, O’Brien posted top five finishes in three of his first four starts to begin the year.

At the end of June, O’Brien picked up his first win of the season at Cornwall, and began to emerge as a contender for the track championship. He was also in third in points at Brockville, and while struggling a little at Mohawk Raceway, he was still contending for a top five in the battle for their championship.

July was certainly the busiest month of the season for O’Brien with 12 events. He posted his first ever win at Mohawk Raceway on July 15^th, and had three top five finishes at Brockville, including back to back second place results, and three top ten finishes at Cornwall. While he was holding ground at Brockville and Cornwall in the battle for the championship, he fell out of the top five at Mohawk Raceway by the end of the month.

Despite a third place finish at Brockville and a fifth at Mohawk in August, the rest of the results were not what the team was looking for down the final stretch of the season. Most of the races scheduled for the month of August at Cornwall were lost to rain, and the mediocre results throughout the results took him out of contention for a track title at Brockville.

September started out a little slow for O’Brien, finishing 12^th on the final night of points at MIR. He followed that up with a third place finish on the final points night at Brockville, and seemed to gain momentum as he had a great third place finish at Mohawk as they closed out their 2011 season with a Mr. DIRTcar 358 Modified race. O’Brien closed out the month with a spectacular win at the Applefest shootout at Brighton Speedway after finishing second in the same event the past two years.

The late season momentum continued through the final event of the season at the Northeast Fall Nationals at Brockville, as O’Brien scored a solid top five finish in the Mr. DIRTcar 358 season finale.

Plans have not yet been finalized for the 2012 season, but will be announced on the website after the new year.

Tim O’Brien would like to thank all of the sponsors for the upcoming season. These great companies include; Jim’s Performance Plus, Pat’s Radiator, Windmill Construction, Tom Henderson’s Custom Meats, Allen Bell & Associates, Parcoll Products, Rust Check, S.G. Wells Ford and J.A.T. Maintenance. For more information on Tim O’Brien and the Jim’s Performance Plus Race team, please visit our website, www.timobrienracing.com.

NHRA: NHRA and Summit Racing Equipment extend sponsorship of NHRA Summit Racing Series

GLENDORA, Calif. (Nov. 7, 2011) — NHRA officials announced today that Summit Racing Equipment has signed a multi-year agreement to extend its title sponsorship of the popular NHRA Summit Racing Series.

“We can’t thank Summit Racing Equipment enough for its commitment to and support of the NHRA Summit Racing Series,” said Tom Compton, president, NHRA.  “Summit Racing Equipment’s contribution to helping support the racer community is immeasurable.”

The NHRA Summit Racing Series features a bracket racing format staged at NHRA Member Tracks nationwide that allows drivers in many types of vehicles, including dragsters, roadsters, sedans, and coupes to compete on an equal basis against each other.   In addition to the three categories of competition for cars, a motorcycle category also is featured.  Summit has sponsored the series since the 2000 season.

“The Summit Racing Series and division E.T. Finals were developed to promote and celebrate sportsman racing at local tracks, and provide a platform for those racers to compete for a national championship,” said Jim Greenleaf, motorsports and events manager, Summit Racing Equipment.  “We couldn’t be more excited about renewing this program and continuing our support of sportsman racing for years to come."

NHRA Summit Racing Series racers compete for points and cash awards at a number of qualifying events at 130 NHRA member tracks throughout North America.  Drivers who earn the most points are eligible to compete for individual and team honors at the NHRA Summit Racing Finals in each of NHRA’s seven divisions.  Individual winners receive a division champion trophy and purse along with travel expenses to attend the NHRA Summit Racing Series National Championship held each year at the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series season finale, the Automobile Club of Southern California NHRA Finals at Auto Club Raceway at Pomona (Calif.).  There, they compete for a national championship, $5,000, a national champion trophy, and bragging rights for the year.

Summit Racing Equipment is deeply rooted in NHRA at all levels of the sport.  In addition to the NHRA Summit Racing Series holds title rights  for the SummitRacing.com NHRA Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway in Commerce, Ga., and the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals at Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio.  

Summit Racing Equipment also serves as the primary sponsor of newly crowned NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series Pro Stock world champion, Jason Line, and his teammate, Greg Anderson, a four-time NHRA Pro Stock world champion. 

Summit Racing Equipment is the industry leader in the distribution of auto racing parts and equipment through catalogs and the Internet and is headquartered in Tallmadge, Ohio, a short distance from the Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio, the venue for the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals.

From NHRA