Courtesy Marjorie Mulligan Fay
WATERBURY, VT – The American-Canadian Tour’s (ACT) U.S. drivers will be looking for revenge when the traveling Late Model series heads north of the border to Quebec’s Sanair Super Speedway, July 8-9 for the $10,000 to win “La Mega Classique”. The stop at the fast 7/8ths mile tri-oval will be the first for the Late Models in some seven years.
At ACT’s earlier stop in the “Belle Province” of Quebec, the advantage at the Banlieu Ford 100 (Circuit Ste-Croix on May 13) went to the locals. Brent Dragon’s third place finish was the best the U.S. drivers could muster. Multi-time Tour Champion, Jean-Paul Cyr was a disappointing fifth, behind 2005 Tour runner-up Dave Pembroke.
Donald Theetge, a veteran racer with Quebec’s Série Castrol, claimed victory, while his perennial nemesis, Sylvain Lacombe finished second. Lacombe’s brother Martin, was sixth.
“To tell you the truth, I was surprised that we didn’t finish better,” remarked Dragon, winner of a 2003 ACT event at the 5/8ths mile high banked oval. “I knew that Lacombe and Theetge would be strong – they finished second and third behind me the last time we were there, but I thought we’d have more for them. I’m looking forward to getting revenge at Sanair,” he concluded.
Dragon is one of eight active ACT Tour competitors who’ve previously raced at Sanair and who have filed an entry for the first of three ACTion Super Series races. Others who have Late Model experience at Sanair include former ACT Tour champions Phil Scott (2002), Jean-Paul Cyr (5 times), and Dave Whitcomb (1992), as well as Mark Lamberton, Joey Laquerre and Rich Lowrey. Laquerre is the lone driver with a previous win at the St-Pie, Quebec track.
Essex Jct, Vermont’s Whitcomb, a 20+ year racing veteran has a Sanair finishing average of 10.5. “I don’t think the cars have changed a lot (over the years) although there will be a lot more competition with the $10,000 to win,” he stated. “I think we’ll have a good tire under us. I’ve always liked Sanair – I don’t think it’s as hard on brakes as some might think. They cool down on the long front stretch just before you have to go into the hardest corner – the first-second turn. You don’t have to brake hard in tri-oval or as hard in the third-fourth turn. I feel Airborne (Speedway, Plattsburgh, NY) and Lee (USA Speedway, Lee, NH) are actually harder on brakes,” he finished.
A purse of more than $70,000 has been posted for the July 8/9 event, which has been dubbed “La Mega Classique”. The winner will take home a minimum of $10,000.
For more information contact the ACT office at 802-244-6963 or visit www.acttour.com.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Carl Spiering Motorsports Eaton Electrical Camaro head West
“Cannon, DiStefano, and Kerunsky are serious competitors that would enjoy thumping on the Eaton Road Warrior”
Courtesy Bruce F. Mehlenbacher
JORDAN STATION, ON (June 12, 2006) – Carl Spiering is heading west as part of the team’s professional drag racing swing to western Canada, as the Carl Spiering Motorsports Eaton Electrical Pro Modified Supercharged 1967 Chevrolet Camaro has dates to race in Mission, British Columbia, and Edmonton, Alberta.
Spiering will compete in the Eaton Cutler-Hammer “Thunder by the River” Pro Modified Shootout in British Columbia at Mission Dragway June 17-18 prior to the fourth Annual CARS RV, Marine & Motorsports Rocky Mountain Nationals presented by Torco Race Fuels, race four of the 11-event 2006 IHRA eMax Drag Racing Series June 23-25 in Edmonton, Alberta.
“We are really looking forward to our annual trip west, visiting our fans and spending time with the Eaton Electrical customers and employees,” said Spiering, who makes his home in Jordan Station, Ontario. “The Eaton Road Warrior ran well at the Bend, and the event at Mission will give us some quality time to fine tune her for Edmonton.”
The Eaton Cutler-Hammer “Thunder by the River” Pro Modified Shootout at Mission Dragway is an independent event, open to all competitors and will provide some solid testing for Pro Mod teams prior to the IHRA Rocky Mountain Nationals at Edmonton the following weekend. The Pro Modified racers will have the opportunity to try out the reputed Mission Raceway track surface for themselves, and while doing so compete for some serious prize money in a class with some heavy hitters, such as Scott Cannon, Rick DiStefano, Glen Kerunsky, Trevor Lowe, and Kirk Kuhns.
“Mission will be no walk in the park,” said Spiering. “Cannon, DiStefano and Kerunsky are serious competitors, that would enjoy thumping on the Eaton Road Warrior,” he added. “They have no sense of humor when it comes to getting beat up.”
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Litt Takes First Sprint Car Win at Home Track
From Litt Racing PR // By Tommy Goudge
Ryan Litt took home his first feature win in a full size sprint car on Friday night, and his timing for it couldn’t have been better. At Delaware Speedway, just 30 miles from his home in Lyons, Ontario, the 19 year old took over the lead on lap 10 of the 30 lap feature, after AJ Lane and Bill Tyler made contact racing for the lead, and held the lead the rest of the way to score a popular win with the hometown fans.
As the evening progressed, Ryan was running competitively, but probably wouldn’t have been picked as the winner either. Ryan qualified the #07 BS&B Radiator, OTC/SPX Tools Beast/Claxton Sprinter 6th out of 23 cars in time trials, and finished 5th in his heat race. In the feature, after the customary Auto Value/Bumper to Bumper Super Sprints series inversion of the top qualifiers, Ryan was able to start in 3rd place and rode there until the top 2 cars tangled on the 10th circuit.
Ryan survived a few more cautions and a late race charge through lapped traffic by fellow Owens Petroleum Rookie of the Year contender Chad Goff to bring the #07 to victory lane for the first time.”I’m so happy to win at Delaware,” said Ryan of his first win. “There was a good crowd and they were really loud and happy with the outcome – it was really neat.”
There wasn’t much time to celebrate the victory however as the AVSS series moved 2 hours to the West on Saturday night to the Auto City Speedway in Flint, Michigan. The #07 was 12th fastest in time trials out of the 26 cars in attendance, and finished 4th in the heat race. 12th quickest in time trials meant Ryan could not be involved in the invert for the feature on this night and started 12th in the 21 car feature field.
A relatively uneventful race saw the #07 quietly move forward into the 7th spot by the time the checkered flag flew 30 laps later.”We figure our wide axel isn’t good for short tracks (like Auto City),” said Ryan afterwards, “So next time we race there and at other tight tracks we’re going to run a narrower axel. We just can’t make the car as good as it needs to be (to run up front) on the short tracks. It’s great on the big tracks though – I can’t wait for Toledo and Fort Wayne this weekend.”
Next up for Ryan and the rest of the travelling stars of the AVSS is another busy doubleheader weekend, this time at the Toledo Speedway in Ohio on Friday night, and the Baer Field Speedway in Fort Wayne, Indiana on Saturday night. Ryan was 5th fastest in time trials and 6th in the feature at Toledo last season in just his 2nd start in a winged sprint car. Baer Field, on the other hand, was the site of “the big wreck” which destroyed the #07 last season, necessitating a complete rebuild before another race could be run.
Ryan and the team are confident that they can improve on their results from last year at both venues.
Ryan Litt took home his first feature win in a full size sprint car on Friday night, and his timing for it couldn’t have been better. At Delaware Speedway, just 30 miles from his home in Lyons, Ontario, the 19 year old took over the lead on lap 10 of the 30 lap feature, after AJ Lane and Bill Tyler made contact racing for the lead, and held the lead the rest of the way to score a popular win with the hometown fans.
As the evening progressed, Ryan was running competitively, but probably wouldn’t have been picked as the winner either. Ryan qualified the #07 BS&B Radiator, OTC/SPX Tools Beast/Claxton Sprinter 6th out of 23 cars in time trials, and finished 5th in his heat race. In the feature, after the customary Auto Value/Bumper to Bumper Super Sprints series inversion of the top qualifiers, Ryan was able to start in 3rd place and rode there until the top 2 cars tangled on the 10th circuit.
Ryan survived a few more cautions and a late race charge through lapped traffic by fellow Owens Petroleum Rookie of the Year contender Chad Goff to bring the #07 to victory lane for the first time.”I’m so happy to win at Delaware,” said Ryan of his first win. “There was a good crowd and they were really loud and happy with the outcome – it was really neat.”
There wasn’t much time to celebrate the victory however as the AVSS series moved 2 hours to the West on Saturday night to the Auto City Speedway in Flint, Michigan. The #07 was 12th fastest in time trials out of the 26 cars in attendance, and finished 4th in the heat race. 12th quickest in time trials meant Ryan could not be involved in the invert for the feature on this night and started 12th in the 21 car feature field.
A relatively uneventful race saw the #07 quietly move forward into the 7th spot by the time the checkered flag flew 30 laps later.”We figure our wide axel isn’t good for short tracks (like Auto City),” said Ryan afterwards, “So next time we race there and at other tight tracks we’re going to run a narrower axel. We just can’t make the car as good as it needs to be (to run up front) on the short tracks. It’s great on the big tracks though – I can’t wait for Toledo and Fort Wayne this weekend.”
Next up for Ryan and the rest of the travelling stars of the AVSS is another busy doubleheader weekend, this time at the Toledo Speedway in Ohio on Friday night, and the Baer Field Speedway in Fort Wayne, Indiana on Saturday night. Ryan was 5th fastest in time trials and 6th in the feature at Toledo last season in just his 2nd start in a winged sprint car. Baer Field, on the other hand, was the site of “the big wreck” which destroyed the #07 last season, necessitating a complete rebuild before another race could be run.
Ryan and the team are confident that they can improve on their results from last year at both venues.
NASCAR PRESIDENT MIKE HELTON TALKS ABOUT STATE OF THE SPORT ON NASCAR RACEDAY
NASCAR RaceDay on SPEED, the definitive NASCAR pre-race show, interviewed NASCAR President Mike Helton during this past weekend’s NASCAR Nextel Cup Series race at Pocono Raceway in Long Pond, Pa.
Helton spoke to host John Roberts and drivers Jimmy Spencer and Kenny Wallace about some of NASCAR’s challenges and future plans. Here are the highlights of what he said to SPEED:
Roberts: …in light of last week’s race at Dover (Del.) Downs, where only 42 pit stalls were utilized for 43 starters, where does the responsibility lie between NASCAR and the race tracks on making improvements?
Helton: It comes from both directions. If you look at the history of the sport, as we’ve grown fields, race tracks have, in general, grown with the sport. Tracks have helped the sport grow by modernizing their facilities, especially when a new race track comes along and raises the standard. It’s not an instantaneous thing that can be fixed across the board or throughout every season. It’s a working relationship we have with race tracks to improve the facilities, not only operationally for NASCAR and the race teams that are there, but also for the fans and amenities they experience – to continue to grow the sport.
Spencer: ...why doesn’t NASCAR talk about all the research and development that goes on in the Concord (N.C.) (Research & Development) facility?
Helton: The primary function of the NASCAR R&D center in Concord, and the vision behind it, is to improve the sport – safety, competition and what lies behind the economy of the sport. Keeping car owners healthy is a big element to the future of this sport. The mission there is to get those target elements accomplished and not to take credit for what’s happening, and not to publicize all the activities, but to actually, physically work on those issues. It’s a great commitment by the France family to what I think is to the all of motorsports. Not just NASCAR, but all motorsports sanctioning bodies are welcome to come there and learn. We think motorsports in general being healthy, helps NASCAR be healthy. So the primary function at the NASCAR R&D Center is to make the quality of NASCAR better, and to establish some criteria for the future of the sport, so we can keep it healthy in the garage area.
Wallace: …many of the old school NASCAR Busch Series team owners feel there has been an invasion of NASCAR Nextel Cup Series owners and all of their resources. I have people every week tell me that it’s unfair. Now, I don’t think it’s unfair, but I want your response because it has become such a heated issue.
Helton: It’s not a new issue. I recently spoke to Brett Bodine, and he was talking about when he and Dale Jarrett, back in 1988 and ’89, ran both series. They both did it back then, so it’s nothing new. What I think is new however, in this modern era, is the standard and quality is being raised, as well as the depth of that quality in the Busch Series garage. It’s the uncertainty of what to do next by some car owners. I don’t think NASCAR is going to change its philosophy on the Busch Series or Truck Series. It’s open to whoever wants to participate in it. But, what we do need to pay attention to is how we can change the rules, regulations and the operational procedures – these are issues NASCAR can control. How do we do that so past champions like Joe Nemechek can defeat a Dale Earnhardt on the last lap at New Hampshire, or a Jimmy Spencer can beat a Bobby Allison competing in a Busch race? Those are the types of things I remember seeing, and things NASCAR can work on so the Busch Series can learn from the involvement of Cup teams, yet not be damaged by it.
Spencer: People write in all the time about wanting the competition to be more level and a little closer. Now, no question, the future looks really bright for the car of the future. How close are we to seeing these cars run?
Helton: We’re today closer than we’ve ever been with ‘the car of tomorrow’ being part and parcel of our everyday life on the racetrack. It’s not a new project and it’s been five or six years in the works. We’re now, very actively testing to receive input from crew members and race teams. What we’ve done on paper and in our R&D Center with the help of manufacturers and others is to develop a safer car, a car that is more ‘race-able’ on the racetrack and a car that should be much more economical for car owners to participate in the sport with. Those are the major goals. Right now, what we’re down to is finding a car that is race-able. That’s what we’re doing at race tracks with the teams is find the little minutia we need to make them run nose-to-tail and side-by-side. We will debut the car in Bristol (Tenn.) in 2007 and it will be on a fast track from then on.
Wallace: …There is some talk about a new Busch Series race in Canada. How do you make a decision on whether or not you send Busch or Cup out of the country?
Helton: It comes down to supply and demand. With the Japan exhibition race we ran almost 10 years ago now, there was timeliness within the (Nextel Cup Series) schedule. Today, it’s a lot more difficult to do that with the amount of races we run in the United States. We still had a little bit of room to play with the Busch Series, and it gave us the opportunity to take NASCAR, as a community, to Mexico City to play out in front of millions of passionate race fans. We are still exploring the possibility of doing that, maybe not with a fresh date, but some dates we can (race in Canada) with in the Busch Series. We’re not sure what will come of that, but it certainly has a great deal of interest from our side.
Roberts: …what are your thoughts about Toyota coming into NASCAR Nextel Cup Series competition next year?
Helton: There are two things, one is the Toyota brand in this country is huge. And in fairness to Toyota, they are very much a part of American daily life. There are 41,000 Americans that are employed in this country by Toyota, building those cars and trucks. In today’s world, and as small as it has become, it’s an issue you need to take a great look at, and understand the impact Toyota has, business-wise, on the American citizen. From the competition side, I think it’s always good when a new manufacturer enters the sport. When Dodge came back into our sport a few years ago, I think that was good for the sport. It gave more people an opportunity to compete at this level of the sport. People like Ray Evernham for example with Dodge, and Toyota has Michael Waltrip and Bill Davis to bring up the level of quality. It grows the sport and has kept everything healthy in the Cup Series, and in the Busch Series. I think we’ve seen evidence of health in the Truck Series because of it. I also think it’s a little bit of a wake up call for the other manufacturers to step up their level of participation.
SPEED, celebrating its 10th Anniversary in 2006, is the nation's first and foremost cable network dedicated to motor sports and the passion for everything automotive. From racing to restoration, motorcycles to movies, SPEED delivers quality programming from the track to the garage. Now available in more than 71 million homes in North America, SPEED is among the fastest growing sports cable networks in the country and an industry leader in interactive TV, video on demand, mobile initiatives and broadband services.
From SPEEDTV
Helton spoke to host John Roberts and drivers Jimmy Spencer and Kenny Wallace about some of NASCAR’s challenges and future plans. Here are the highlights of what he said to SPEED:
Roberts: …in light of last week’s race at Dover (Del.) Downs, where only 42 pit stalls were utilized for 43 starters, where does the responsibility lie between NASCAR and the race tracks on making improvements?
Helton: It comes from both directions. If you look at the history of the sport, as we’ve grown fields, race tracks have, in general, grown with the sport. Tracks have helped the sport grow by modernizing their facilities, especially when a new race track comes along and raises the standard. It’s not an instantaneous thing that can be fixed across the board or throughout every season. It’s a working relationship we have with race tracks to improve the facilities, not only operationally for NASCAR and the race teams that are there, but also for the fans and amenities they experience – to continue to grow the sport.
Spencer: ...why doesn’t NASCAR talk about all the research and development that goes on in the Concord (N.C.) (Research & Development) facility?
Helton: The primary function of the NASCAR R&D center in Concord, and the vision behind it, is to improve the sport – safety, competition and what lies behind the economy of the sport. Keeping car owners healthy is a big element to the future of this sport. The mission there is to get those target elements accomplished and not to take credit for what’s happening, and not to publicize all the activities, but to actually, physically work on those issues. It’s a great commitment by the France family to what I think is to the all of motorsports. Not just NASCAR, but all motorsports sanctioning bodies are welcome to come there and learn. We think motorsports in general being healthy, helps NASCAR be healthy. So the primary function at the NASCAR R&D Center is to make the quality of NASCAR better, and to establish some criteria for the future of the sport, so we can keep it healthy in the garage area.
Wallace: …many of the old school NASCAR Busch Series team owners feel there has been an invasion of NASCAR Nextel Cup Series owners and all of their resources. I have people every week tell me that it’s unfair. Now, I don’t think it’s unfair, but I want your response because it has become such a heated issue.
Helton: It’s not a new issue. I recently spoke to Brett Bodine, and he was talking about when he and Dale Jarrett, back in 1988 and ’89, ran both series. They both did it back then, so it’s nothing new. What I think is new however, in this modern era, is the standard and quality is being raised, as well as the depth of that quality in the Busch Series garage. It’s the uncertainty of what to do next by some car owners. I don’t think NASCAR is going to change its philosophy on the Busch Series or Truck Series. It’s open to whoever wants to participate in it. But, what we do need to pay attention to is how we can change the rules, regulations and the operational procedures – these are issues NASCAR can control. How do we do that so past champions like Joe Nemechek can defeat a Dale Earnhardt on the last lap at New Hampshire, or a Jimmy Spencer can beat a Bobby Allison competing in a Busch race? Those are the types of things I remember seeing, and things NASCAR can work on so the Busch Series can learn from the involvement of Cup teams, yet not be damaged by it.
Spencer: People write in all the time about wanting the competition to be more level and a little closer. Now, no question, the future looks really bright for the car of the future. How close are we to seeing these cars run?
Helton: We’re today closer than we’ve ever been with ‘the car of tomorrow’ being part and parcel of our everyday life on the racetrack. It’s not a new project and it’s been five or six years in the works. We’re now, very actively testing to receive input from crew members and race teams. What we’ve done on paper and in our R&D Center with the help of manufacturers and others is to develop a safer car, a car that is more ‘race-able’ on the racetrack and a car that should be much more economical for car owners to participate in the sport with. Those are the major goals. Right now, what we’re down to is finding a car that is race-able. That’s what we’re doing at race tracks with the teams is find the little minutia we need to make them run nose-to-tail and side-by-side. We will debut the car in Bristol (Tenn.) in 2007 and it will be on a fast track from then on.
Wallace: …There is some talk about a new Busch Series race in Canada. How do you make a decision on whether or not you send Busch or Cup out of the country?
Helton: It comes down to supply and demand. With the Japan exhibition race we ran almost 10 years ago now, there was timeliness within the (Nextel Cup Series) schedule. Today, it’s a lot more difficult to do that with the amount of races we run in the United States. We still had a little bit of room to play with the Busch Series, and it gave us the opportunity to take NASCAR, as a community, to Mexico City to play out in front of millions of passionate race fans. We are still exploring the possibility of doing that, maybe not with a fresh date, but some dates we can (race in Canada) with in the Busch Series. We’re not sure what will come of that, but it certainly has a great deal of interest from our side.
Roberts: …what are your thoughts about Toyota coming into NASCAR Nextel Cup Series competition next year?
Helton: There are two things, one is the Toyota brand in this country is huge. And in fairness to Toyota, they are very much a part of American daily life. There are 41,000 Americans that are employed in this country by Toyota, building those cars and trucks. In today’s world, and as small as it has become, it’s an issue you need to take a great look at, and understand the impact Toyota has, business-wise, on the American citizen. From the competition side, I think it’s always good when a new manufacturer enters the sport. When Dodge came back into our sport a few years ago, I think that was good for the sport. It gave more people an opportunity to compete at this level of the sport. People like Ray Evernham for example with Dodge, and Toyota has Michael Waltrip and Bill Davis to bring up the level of quality. It grows the sport and has kept everything healthy in the Cup Series, and in the Busch Series. I think we’ve seen evidence of health in the Truck Series because of it. I also think it’s a little bit of a wake up call for the other manufacturers to step up their level of participation.
SPEED, celebrating its 10th Anniversary in 2006, is the nation's first and foremost cable network dedicated to motor sports and the passion for everything automotive. From racing to restoration, motorcycles to movies, SPEED delivers quality programming from the track to the garage. Now available in more than 71 million homes in North America, SPEED is among the fastest growing sports cable networks in the country and an industry leader in interactive TV, video on demand, mobile initiatives and broadband services.
From SPEEDTV
RIDE WITH US TOUR UPDATE FROM KEITH HEPBURN
Greetings Everyone:
Just another quick update on the "Ride With Us Tour...2" for The War Amps being held on August 6, 2006.
Everything is still progressing very well with the planning of the "Ride".
I am so very excited to announce that the "Southern Cruisers, Chapter #370, have acknowledged that they will be attending & showing their support for this very worthwhile fundraiser for The War Amps.
Any time you are blessed with the support of a Chapter of such a great National Club like the Southern Cruisers, the event & the recipient of the fundraiser must be very surreal.
It is truly my honour to welcome the "Southern Cruisers, Chapter #370 and their membership aboard for this event.
Don't forget to mark this date on your calendar, August 6th, as the ride through parts of the beautiful Grey & Bruce counties will be awesome. Please see my attached photo for a sneak preview of some of the breath taking scenery you will encounter that day. I hope you can attend this event & I hope to see you there!
Drive Safe
Keith HepburnALSTAR Charity Ride Event Co-ordinator
http://www.alstarseries.com/ALSTAR_Officia/Motorcylce_ALS.html
Monday, June 12, 2006
MIS Cup this weekend
BROOKLYN, Mich. (June 9, 2006) - As the 2006 season opens, Michigan International Speedway looks forward to hosting races in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series, the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, and the ARCA RE/MAX Series.
The 3M Performance 400 presented by Post-Itâ Picture Paper is on June 18, and it will be the 15th stop on the 36-race schedule of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series. The Con-way Freight 200, on June 17, will be the 10th stop on the 25-race schedule of the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. The Hantz Group 200 takes place on June 16, and it will be the 8th stop on the 23-race schedule of the ARCA RE/MAX Series.
Tickets are available for all races by calling the MIS ticket hotline at 800-354-1010 or by logging on to www.MISpeedway.com.
The 3M Performance 400 presented by Post-Itâ Picture Paper is on June 18, and it will be the 15th stop on the 36-race schedule of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series. The Con-way Freight 200, on June 17, will be the 10th stop on the 25-race schedule of the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. The Hantz Group 200 takes place on June 16, and it will be the 8th stop on the 23-race schedule of the ARCA RE/MAX Series.
Tickets are available for all races by calling the MIS ticket hotline at 800-354-1010 or by logging on to www.MISpeedway.com.
Lucky to walk away from this one...
From CheckerstoWreckers.com
Livingston Walks Away From Wild Ride During Practice Session
OYSTER BED BRIDGE, PEI (June 1, 2006) - Kent Livingston is counting his blessings after walking away from a ferocious wreck in his No. 16 racecar during a shakedown session at Raceway Park on Tuesday evening. Livingston (Charlottetown) was making last minute adjustments to his racecar in preparation for this Saturday's CARQUEST Tour season opener at Scotia Speedworld when the throttle stuck going into turn three.
... continue with photos at the link above...
Livingston Walks Away From Wild Ride During Practice Session
OYSTER BED BRIDGE, PEI (June 1, 2006) - Kent Livingston is counting his blessings after walking away from a ferocious wreck in his No. 16 racecar during a shakedown session at Raceway Park on Tuesday evening. Livingston (Charlottetown) was making last minute adjustments to his racecar in preparation for this Saturday's CARQUEST Tour season opener at Scotia Speedworld when the throttle stuck going into turn three.
... continue with photos at the link above...
Canadian Bourque 18th in NBE Debut
GREENVILLE-PICKENS, SOUTH CAROLINA (June 12, 2006) – Pierre Bourque and his Fast Track Racing team headed into the first race of the 2006 NASCAR Busch East Series season not knowing what to really expect. A new driver and new team (in NASCAR Busch East Series competition) were just looking to get their feet wet and kick-off their adventure in the right direction.
Bourque, a 2006 Rookie-of-the-Year candidate in the NBE Series was hoping to utilize his previous test session at the track hoping to aid him for race weekend.
NASCAR allowed an optional practice session on Friday with the FTR (Fast Track Racing) team taking full advantage of it. During the session, Bourque turned a lap of 22.636 seconds at 79.519 MPH good enough for 26th on the charts. “I’m still learning a whole lot. We tried some different adjustments and we picked up the pace, that’s good. We’ll go back on Saturday and see if we can further advance ourselves.”
A hot and steamy day on Saturday allowed 30 drivers and team to endure the first full practice session of the season. While turning quicker lap times during the practice, Bourque and the team weren’t comfortable with their 27th position on the pylon. “We picked up again and that’s good, but I would like to see us crack the top-20. That’s our goal for qualifying. Even though I want to do so well, I have to remember I am very new at this type of racing and I just have to pace myself and everything will come around.”
In qualifying, Bourque picked up four-tenths of a second from his practice session. During his two-lap session, he turned a fast time of 22.029 seconds or 81.710 MPH. While he picked up considerably in time trials, Bourque would start his first ever NBE race from the 26th position. “We’re in the show. That’s the biggest thing,” explained Bourque. “I’m getting faster and that’s important. In the race, I just want to finish, it doesn’t really matter where I finish, as long as I finish.”
During the course of the 150 lap event, Bourque battled it all. The heat, spins, pit stops, handling issues and unforgettable racing experience. However, when the checkered flag flew on Saturday, Bourque had maintained his position on the lead lap bringing his No. 10 Full Metals Minerals-Pollara Strategic Public Opinion home in 18th.
“Patience during the learning curve,” Bourque mentioned after the race. “It was a lot of fun, very hot but something I won’t forget. “We met our goals, no doubt about that. Even though I got spun out a couple times, we did what we needed to do, finish the race.”
“It’s very possible that if we had not been involved in the spins, I could have easily had a shot at my first top-ten finish, but I will take this. Obviously, we’re going to continue to improve our race team. We’re going back racing next weekend at Stafford Motor Speedway, we’re looking forward to improving on this weekend’s finish and capture a top-15 finish on Friday night.”
Next up for the NASCAR Busch East Series is the TSI Harley-Davidson 150 at Stafford Motor Speedway in Stafford Springs, Connecticut, set for this Friday, June 16.
In the coming weeks, Bourque will unveil a new racing website.
By Chris Knight, Fast Track Racing // Knight849@aol.com
Bourque, a 2006 Rookie-of-the-Year candidate in the NBE Series was hoping to utilize his previous test session at the track hoping to aid him for race weekend.
NASCAR allowed an optional practice session on Friday with the FTR (Fast Track Racing) team taking full advantage of it. During the session, Bourque turned a lap of 22.636 seconds at 79.519 MPH good enough for 26th on the charts. “I’m still learning a whole lot. We tried some different adjustments and we picked up the pace, that’s good. We’ll go back on Saturday and see if we can further advance ourselves.”
A hot and steamy day on Saturday allowed 30 drivers and team to endure the first full practice session of the season. While turning quicker lap times during the practice, Bourque and the team weren’t comfortable with their 27th position on the pylon. “We picked up again and that’s good, but I would like to see us crack the top-20. That’s our goal for qualifying. Even though I want to do so well, I have to remember I am very new at this type of racing and I just have to pace myself and everything will come around.”
In qualifying, Bourque picked up four-tenths of a second from his practice session. During his two-lap session, he turned a fast time of 22.029 seconds or 81.710 MPH. While he picked up considerably in time trials, Bourque would start his first ever NBE race from the 26th position. “We’re in the show. That’s the biggest thing,” explained Bourque. “I’m getting faster and that’s important. In the race, I just want to finish, it doesn’t really matter where I finish, as long as I finish.”
During the course of the 150 lap event, Bourque battled it all. The heat, spins, pit stops, handling issues and unforgettable racing experience. However, when the checkered flag flew on Saturday, Bourque had maintained his position on the lead lap bringing his No. 10 Full Metals Minerals-Pollara Strategic Public Opinion home in 18th.
“Patience during the learning curve,” Bourque mentioned after the race. “It was a lot of fun, very hot but something I won’t forget. “We met our goals, no doubt about that. Even though I got spun out a couple times, we did what we needed to do, finish the race.”
“It’s very possible that if we had not been involved in the spins, I could have easily had a shot at my first top-ten finish, but I will take this. Obviously, we’re going to continue to improve our race team. We’re going back racing next weekend at Stafford Motor Speedway, we’re looking forward to improving on this weekend’s finish and capture a top-15 finish on Friday night.”
Next up for the NASCAR Busch East Series is the TSI Harley-Davidson 150 at Stafford Motor Speedway in Stafford Springs, Connecticut, set for this Friday, June 16.
In the coming weeks, Bourque will unveil a new racing website.
By Chris Knight, Fast Track Racing // Knight849@aol.com
OSCAAR Outlaws Set To Show Off Their Golf Skills On June 28th!
The OSCAAR Outlaws will demonstrate their extraordinary golf skills…or maybe their lack thereof, at Simcoe Shores Golf & Country Club on Wednesday June 28th, in support of the Peterborough chapter of the Big Brothers Big Sisters association.
OSCAAR’s Annual Charity Golf Tournament now in its third year, has successfully proven itself to be a day of fun, friendship and charity! Since the birth of the tournament in 2004, the number of players has steadily increased along with the corporate sponsorship support!
“Our annual tournament is an excellent example of OSCAAR’s commitment and dedication to building a solid organization as the top racing series in Ontario, and its priority of giving back to the communities that support OSCAAR events,” explained OSCAAR President Kim Mahony. “I strongly encourage everyone to come out and join us in support of a worthy cause, and a guarantee for a fun day,” she added.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough is an organization dedicated to helping in the development of children growing up in primarily lone-parent families. There are over 1 million children in Canada who live with one parent. Many of these children would like another adult in their lives and Big Brothers and Big Sisters provides this service through their many enjoyable programs.
OSCAAR’s 3rd Annual Charity Golf Tournament is open to everyone…expertise in the game of golf not required! We are still accepting hole sponsors or prizes. Everyone Welcome To Participate!
DETAILS:
WHERE: Simcoe Shores Golf & Country Club
DIRECTIONS: Hwy 48 North to Brock Rd 17; North to Thorah Conc. 3 in Beaverton, ON
DATE / TIME: Wednesday June 28th // 10:00 A.M.
FORMAT: Shotgun Start
PRICE: $90.00 per person, includes Green Fees, Golf Cart, Lunch & Steak Dinner
Lots Of Prizes To Be Awarded
Golf Entry Form
Be sure to mark the date on your calendar, and come support a worthy cause in a winning way!
www.oscaar.ca
From Kim Mahony // OSCAAR
OSCAAR’s Annual Charity Golf Tournament now in its third year, has successfully proven itself to be a day of fun, friendship and charity! Since the birth of the tournament in 2004, the number of players has steadily increased along with the corporate sponsorship support!
“Our annual tournament is an excellent example of OSCAAR’s commitment and dedication to building a solid organization as the top racing series in Ontario, and its priority of giving back to the communities that support OSCAAR events,” explained OSCAAR President Kim Mahony. “I strongly encourage everyone to come out and join us in support of a worthy cause, and a guarantee for a fun day,” she added.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough is an organization dedicated to helping in the development of children growing up in primarily lone-parent families. There are over 1 million children in Canada who live with one parent. Many of these children would like another adult in their lives and Big Brothers and Big Sisters provides this service through their many enjoyable programs.
OSCAAR’s 3rd Annual Charity Golf Tournament is open to everyone…expertise in the game of golf not required! We are still accepting hole sponsors or prizes. Everyone Welcome To Participate!
DETAILS:
WHERE: Simcoe Shores Golf & Country Club
DIRECTIONS: Hwy 48 North to Brock Rd 17; North to Thorah Conc. 3 in Beaverton, ON
DATE / TIME: Wednesday June 28th // 10:00 A.M.
FORMAT: Shotgun Start
PRICE: $90.00 per person, includes Green Fees, Golf Cart, Lunch & Steak Dinner
Lots Of Prizes To Be Awarded
Golf Entry Form
Be sure to mark the date on your calendar, and come support a worthy cause in a winning way!
www.oscaar.ca
From Kim Mahony // OSCAAR
OSCAAR: Barrie Speedway Next Stop for Team JNE Consulting
MILTON, ON – Team JNE Consulting head to Barrie Saturday June 17 for an Father’s day tilt on the OSCAAR Outlaw Super Late Model Series. John Fletcher and his team head to the 1/3-mile Tri-Oval in hopes the weather is good and the OSCAAR season can get rolling. The previous two stops on the ultra fast series have battled weather in both events.
Team JNE Consulting are chomping at the bit to begin the chase for the OSCAAR title that has eluded them for the last two years. With a feature event win in 2004, the team is poised to try to strike again.
“ We tested here in 2005 and did not get to run so we are looking forward to this event” add John. The team is coming off what looked like to be a good start to 2006 with a qualifying race win before the feature washed out until August 11 at Kawartha Speedway June 2. See you Saturday and celebrate father’s day at the races.
Barrie Speedway Notes: Built in 1965, Barrie Speedway was the first paved stock car racing facility north of Toronto and has been home to Canada's most exciting stock car action ever since. The track was originally built as a tight 1/4-mile oval, the configuration very similar in shape to Martinsville Speedway. The track was widened and the banking was increased in 1999.
The track has been continually renovated and improved since a new ownership group took over in 1999. A new sound system was put in 1999; new washrooms, heated grandstands and a state-of-the-art lighting system are all recent upgrades. Countless improvements have been made to the grounds, including provisions wheelchair accessibility. Barrie Speedway prides itself on being a fun, family-oriented facility A massive expansion of the track itself was undertaken in the fall of 2004.
For you press credentials please contact Brad Moran @ Barrie Speedway or Kim Mahony @ OSCAAR
OSCAAR Outlaw Super Late Model's are Canada's fastest and most exciting full body race cars. Super late model racing in CANADA has produced some of North America's top short track racer's.
Besides three time Don Biederman Memorial Race winner John Fletcher Jr. and Team JNE Consulting and five OSCAAR Series Champion London Mechanical, JBM Leasing Diver Rob Clarke. Super Late Model Racing in Ontario has seen current Roush Racing's Pete Shepard III, 4 Time CASCAR Champion and Home Hardware Driver Don Thompson Jr, Canadian Tire driver Peter Gibbons, the famed "OXFORD 250" winner and current Kawartha Speedway promoter Derek Lynch as well as two of "Canada's Motor Sport Hall Of Fame” inductee’s Don Biederman and the legend Jr. Hanley.
For more information on Team JNE Consulting, John Fletcher or OSCAAR visit our website www.fletchjr61.com // Scott FletcherDirector of MotorsportsTeam JNE Consulting // #61 scottfletcher@fletchjr61.comwww.fletchjr61.com // www.oscaar.ca
CASCAR: #10 TEAM READIES FOR MOSPORTSecond Start of Season After St. Eustache Rained Out
BRANTFORD, ON – Doug Brown and his teammates head to the historic Mosport International Raceway for their second race of the season this coming Father's Day Weekend hoping to erase the memories of their past two experiences on the 2.5 mile, 10 turn road course.
In 2004, a missed entry heading through turn number eight at the end of the long Mario Andretti Straightaway resulted in a broken transmission in the #10 NAPA Autopro team car and a disappointing 20th place finish.
Last season, engine problems and a fire ended the team's afternoon just six laps into the scheduled 51-lap affair.
This year's race will be different a determined competitor commented as he addressed his plans for the weekend of racing at the track located north of Bowmanville. " We learned a lot from our past experiences and with a new engine builder supplying the horsepower, we believe we can finish in the top-ten or better this time out."
After only one event run so far this season - a solid fourth-place finish at Barrie Speedway on Victoria Day Weekend- Doug currently sits third in points behind five-time and defending champion Don Thomson Jr of Ayr and opening event winner Scott Steckly of Milverton.
This past weekend’s scheduled event at Autodrome St. Eustache was cancelled due to wet conditions in the Montreal area. That event has been rescheduled for September 9th at the flat 4/10th-mile oval.
This weekend's race and the July 1-2 race at Barrie Speedway are the only two scheduled events before the Super Series heads for events in Vernon, BC and Edmonton, Alberta, Doug is still unsure whether he and his team will be making the western trek. "We should know better once we get through this coming weekend and the Barrie event", he remarked when questioned of his intentions. "It's a costly trip but if we can obtain some additional sponsorship support and we do well in the next two races, we'll be going.
This weekend’s schedule not only features practice and qualifying for the CASCAR Super Series but also for the F1600 Series, Cup Lites, Civic Championship and Mazda MX-5 Cup.
CASCAR teams will qualify on Saturday with their scheduled race slated to go green at 1:30 pm on Sunday.
Prepared By:Ken SpencerMarketing and Media relationsBrown Auto Racingkenneth.spencer@sympatico.ca (905) 844-7902For additional information on Doug Brown/Brown Auto Racing contact Doug Brown at (519) 752-9531 or go to www.dougbrown.net
In 2004, a missed entry heading through turn number eight at the end of the long Mario Andretti Straightaway resulted in a broken transmission in the #10 NAPA Autopro team car and a disappointing 20th place finish.
Last season, engine problems and a fire ended the team's afternoon just six laps into the scheduled 51-lap affair.
This year's race will be different a determined competitor commented as he addressed his plans for the weekend of racing at the track located north of Bowmanville. " We learned a lot from our past experiences and with a new engine builder supplying the horsepower, we believe we can finish in the top-ten or better this time out."
After only one event run so far this season - a solid fourth-place finish at Barrie Speedway on Victoria Day Weekend- Doug currently sits third in points behind five-time and defending champion Don Thomson Jr of Ayr and opening event winner Scott Steckly of Milverton.
This past weekend’s scheduled event at Autodrome St. Eustache was cancelled due to wet conditions in the Montreal area. That event has been rescheduled for September 9th at the flat 4/10th-mile oval.
This weekend's race and the July 1-2 race at Barrie Speedway are the only two scheduled events before the Super Series heads for events in Vernon, BC and Edmonton, Alberta, Doug is still unsure whether he and his team will be making the western trek. "We should know better once we get through this coming weekend and the Barrie event", he remarked when questioned of his intentions. "It's a costly trip but if we can obtain some additional sponsorship support and we do well in the next two races, we'll be going.
This weekend’s schedule not only features practice and qualifying for the CASCAR Super Series but also for the F1600 Series, Cup Lites, Civic Championship and Mazda MX-5 Cup.
CASCAR teams will qualify on Saturday with their scheduled race slated to go green at 1:30 pm on Sunday.
Prepared By:Ken SpencerMarketing and Media relationsBrown Auto Racingkenneth.spencer@sympatico.ca (905) 844-7902For additional information on Doug Brown/Brown Auto Racing contact Doug Brown at (519) 752-9531 or go to www.dougbrown.net
Delaware: Engine Gremlins Again for McCullough!
Delaware, ON- The McCullough Motorsports racing team headed to Delaware Speedway on Friday, June 9, 2006 with the #39 David McCullough Hosie D’s Donuts / Ross Welding / Boswood Homes / BRITE SITE / Carl’s Used Cars and Trucks / Hugh McKellar / BOC Gases POWERADE Modified for the second annual Delaware Speedway POWERADE Modified Invitational race. This $1000 to win event drew the top Modified type race teams from all across Ontario and Michigan.
This unique event starts off with each driver receiving two time trial laps which is used to set the field for the 35 lap feature race. Driver David McCullough in his # 39 Hosie D’s Donuts / Ross Welding / Boswood Homes / BRITE SITE / Carl’s Used Cars and Trucks / Hugh McKellar / BOC Gases POWERADE Modified turned a quick time of 19.440 second at a average speed of 93 MPH which made him the 7th quickest and only 0.290 seconds of the new track record set by the #20 of Mark Watson. “I am happy with the time considering it was my the first time I have ever time trialed a race car” said Glencoe native David McCullough. After time trials, the quick time driver rolls a dice to set the inversion of the field. Watson rolled an 8 which placed the #39 David McCullough machine on outside pole for the 35 lap feature race.
When the green flag dropped for the $1000 to win feature David McCullough slipped back to the third position after struggling to find grip on the outside groove of the race track. The top 3 cars led by the #11 of Jason Woods started to develop a small lead over the rest of the 24 car field until a caution slowed the field. On the lap 11 restart the #39 machine failed to come up to speed. Driver David McCullough brought his #39 Hosie D’s Donuts / Ross Welding / Boswood Homes / BRITE SITE / Carl’s Used Cars and Trucks / Hugh McKellar / BOC Gases POWERADE Modified down into pit road where the car was diagnosed with a terminal engine failure and claiming the teams second DNF for the season. “It’s too bad, we have had good runs but we just cannot finish the races due to engine problems. We build our own engines, and we will get to the bottom of the problem and make sure it’s fixed for next week” said a dejected David McCullough. The #1 of Barry Newman went to win the race followed by the #20 of Mark Watson and #69 of Lloyd Rawlings came in third.
The next event for the #39 David McCullough Hosie D’s Donuts / Ross Welding / Boswood Homes / BRITE SITE / Carl’s Used Cars and Trucks / Hugh McKellar / BOC Gases POWERADE Modified racing team is at Delaware Speedway next Friday June 16th along with the APC Late Models, Challenger Motor Freight Trucks and also the fan popular King of the Hill Spectator Races. Racing starts at 8 P.M. Sharp!
McCullough Motorsports and driver David McCullough would like to thank their sponsors Hosie D’s Donuts / Ross Welding / Boswood Homes / BRITE SITE / Carl’s Used Cars and Truck / Hugh McKellar and BOC Gases for all of their continuing support. McCullough Motorsports is still searching for primary and associate sponsor for the 2006 season and beyond. If you or anyone you know would like to feel the advantages of a Motorsports Marketing and Advertising package please feel free to contact Kim McCullough at (519) 287-3917 or Jeff Wernham at (519) 281-2419 for more information.
Prepared By: Jeff Wernham // Wernham Motorsports // Tel: (519) 281-2419
wernhammotorsports@hotmail.com // http://www.welcome.to/wernhammotorsports
This unique event starts off with each driver receiving two time trial laps which is used to set the field for the 35 lap feature race. Driver David McCullough in his # 39 Hosie D’s Donuts / Ross Welding / Boswood Homes / BRITE SITE / Carl’s Used Cars and Trucks / Hugh McKellar / BOC Gases POWERADE Modified turned a quick time of 19.440 second at a average speed of 93 MPH which made him the 7th quickest and only 0.290 seconds of the new track record set by the #20 of Mark Watson. “I am happy with the time considering it was my the first time I have ever time trialed a race car” said Glencoe native David McCullough. After time trials, the quick time driver rolls a dice to set the inversion of the field. Watson rolled an 8 which placed the #39 David McCullough machine on outside pole for the 35 lap feature race.
When the green flag dropped for the $1000 to win feature David McCullough slipped back to the third position after struggling to find grip on the outside groove of the race track. The top 3 cars led by the #11 of Jason Woods started to develop a small lead over the rest of the 24 car field until a caution slowed the field. On the lap 11 restart the #39 machine failed to come up to speed. Driver David McCullough brought his #39 Hosie D’s Donuts / Ross Welding / Boswood Homes / BRITE SITE / Carl’s Used Cars and Trucks / Hugh McKellar / BOC Gases POWERADE Modified down into pit road where the car was diagnosed with a terminal engine failure and claiming the teams second DNF for the season. “It’s too bad, we have had good runs but we just cannot finish the races due to engine problems. We build our own engines, and we will get to the bottom of the problem and make sure it’s fixed for next week” said a dejected David McCullough. The #1 of Barry Newman went to win the race followed by the #20 of Mark Watson and #69 of Lloyd Rawlings came in third.
The next event for the #39 David McCullough Hosie D’s Donuts / Ross Welding / Boswood Homes / BRITE SITE / Carl’s Used Cars and Trucks / Hugh McKellar / BOC Gases POWERADE Modified racing team is at Delaware Speedway next Friday June 16th along with the APC Late Models, Challenger Motor Freight Trucks and also the fan popular King of the Hill Spectator Races. Racing starts at 8 P.M. Sharp!
McCullough Motorsports and driver David McCullough would like to thank their sponsors Hosie D’s Donuts / Ross Welding / Boswood Homes / BRITE SITE / Carl’s Used Cars and Truck / Hugh McKellar and BOC Gases for all of their continuing support. McCullough Motorsports is still searching for primary and associate sponsor for the 2006 season and beyond. If you or anyone you know would like to feel the advantages of a Motorsports Marketing and Advertising package please feel free to contact Kim McCullough at (519) 287-3917 or Jeff Wernham at (519) 281-2419 for more information.
Prepared By: Jeff Wernham // Wernham Motorsports // Tel: (519) 281-2419
wernhammotorsports@hotmail.com // http://www.welcome.to/wernhammotorsports
Friday, June 09, 2006
TEAM FMX FREESTYLE MOTOCROSS RIDERSBLAST INTO PETERBOROUGH SPEEDWAY!
Continuing in his commitment to provide a variety of sporting entertainment at Peterborough Speedway, Jean-Paul Josiasse is proud to present EXTREME FEST on Saturday June 17th. EXTREME FEST will feature the ever-popular stunt show of Team FMX Freestyle Motocross Riders from the United States.
Freestyle Motocross is the fastest growing action sport of the new millennium. The combination of suspense, thrilling nature and danger is exploding into the entertainment industry all across the world. With the newfound popularity of freestyle motocross, Team FMX Freestyle Riders have skyrocketed non-stop across North, Central and South America, performing stunt shows in over ten countries around the globe. Since the start, this popular group of exhilarating free styling riders have been featured on different shows like American Choppers (Orange County Choppers), MTV’s (Jack Ass), Fox Sport Net, together with a wide variety of other shows.
“I am very excited to be able to bring this type of show to Peterborough Speedway,” expressed Owner/Promoter J.P. Josiasse. “It is a different twist on our weekly program at the speedway, and I am confident that everyone in attendance will not be disappointed,” he added.
Team FMX Freestyle motocross riders promise to deliver an action-packed, fan oriented, thrilling stunt show, sure to mesmerize every fan in the stands. Team FMX riders are experienced professionals, dedicated to keeping their audience on the edge of their seats.
Anyone who has witnessed the extreme sport of freestyle motocross motorcycle riding knows the excitement and danger that exists in such a stunt show! To watch Team FMX riders fearlessly perform high-flying stunts in mid-air and yet land on two wheels is a feat that shouldn’t be missed.
Have you ever heard of “a double rock solid to no handed landing” or the “Kiss of Death”?! This writer surely hasn’t, but is primed and pumped to take in the super exciting stunt show of Team FMX Freestyle Motocross Riders at Peterborough Speedway on June 17th.
In addition, to the thrill-seeking riders of Team FMX, Peterborough Speedway has scheduled a Gauntlet Race and Roll-Over Competition to complete the day! The thrilling action of EXTREME FEST will get underway at 2:00 p.m. For further event details, please visit www.peterboroughspeedway.com or contact J.P. at the speedway office at 705-743-5880.
CASCAR: ST-EUSTACHE POSTPONED TO SEPT. 9 BY INCLEMENT WEATHER
To all CASCAR teams,
The CASCAR Super Series event scheduled for tomorrow (Saturday June 10, 2006) at Autodrome St-Eustache has been postponed. It appears unlikely that there will be a large enough break in the rain to complete the race event on the scheduled date, or on the rain date of Sunday June 11, 2006.
The event is rescheduled for Saturday, September 9, 2006.
Please pass this information on to your sponsors and crews as quickly as possible.
Best regards, // Richard Coughlin // CASCAR Inc.
The CASCAR Super Series event scheduled for tomorrow (Saturday June 10, 2006) at Autodrome St-Eustache has been postponed. It appears unlikely that there will be a large enough break in the rain to complete the race event on the scheduled date, or on the rain date of Sunday June 11, 2006.
The event is rescheduled for Saturday, September 9, 2006.
Please pass this information on to your sponsors and crews as quickly as possible.
Best regards, // Richard Coughlin // CASCAR Inc.
2006 Kumho Super Challenge
Hosted by VCMC Motorsport Club and Kumho Tire Canada, the 4th annual Kumho Super Challenge will be held in Vancouver on July 22nd and 23rd.
This is the premier autocross event in BC every year, with great prizes and a huge Kumho banquet. On day two, the famous KSC Shootout is some of the most exciting autocross you will ever experience - as a competitor or a spectator. For more information, visit http://www.vcmc.ca/
From Steve Kibble // Director of PRVCMC Motorsport Club
CASCAR: TEAM WHITLOCK ON THE ROAD TO QUEBEC
Wyoming, ON: Team Whitlock is on the road to Autodrome St. Eustache, just north of Montreal to take part in event number two, the CASCAR 200 tomorrow, Saturday June 10th. This long time stop on the CASCAR tour is a favourite of the #39 NTN-Bower/Nitrex Metal Technologies team as Whitlock has posted several wins here, most recently the 2002 CASCAR Super Series event.
"We have had a great deal of success here," stated driver Dave Whitlock. "We have won here in CASCAR and in other St. Eustache sanctioned special events so we hope to be in the hunt for the win here again tomorrow night."
Schedule of Events for Saturday's CASCAR 200 event:
CASCAR Practice 5 - 6:00 p.m.
CASCAR Time Trials 6:45 p.m.
CASCAR 200 9:00 p.m.
The #39 Whitlock Motorsports/NTN-Bower/NMT Dodge Charger team are unofficially 8th in National Points with #4 Don Thomson Jr and #22 Scott Steckly holding down the top two spots in the chase for the championship.
The Go-Racing.ca 300 from Barrie Speedway will air on Sportsnet on Saturday June 10th at 3:00 p.m. EST. Check local listings for further details.
NTN Bearing corporation of Canada, based in Mississauga, Ontario manufactures and distributes a wide range of ball and roller bearings, serving the automotive, industrial and recreational markets.
Established in 1968, NTN Bearing Corporation of Canada Ltd. has enjoyed continuous growth and expansion over the past 30 years. NTN Bearings are available through more than three hundred distribution outlets across Canada. With this extensive network, NTN is able to offer prompt, off the shelf service anywhere in the country. For more information on NTN Bearings please visit their website at www.ntn.ca
Whitlock Motorsports is a professional racing business located in Wyoming, ON just outside of Sarnia. The 5,000 square foot dedicated motorsports facility houses up to eight race cars, a chassis dyno and all the necessary tools to field a competitive two car race team. Dave Whitlock boasts three National Championships, 1991, 1997 and 1998 along with several top three National Championship finishes, while teammate Mark Dilley has one National Championship to his credit in 1994. Both teams have consistently posted finishes in the Top Six in the National Point Standings since Dilley joined the Whitlock team in 1999. For more information please visit www.whitlockmotorsports.com
For more information please contact: Linda Jones // (705) 458-4044 or email: ljmmarketing@look.ca
CASCAR: JACOMBS READY FOR ST. EUSTACHE-EVENT TWO ON THE SCHEDULE
Hamilton, ON: Dave Jacombs and his #88 Lou's BBQ/CPS Flooring Ford Taurus team are ready for another short track battle this Saturday June 10th at Autodrome St. Eustache just north of Montreal.
The CASCAR 200 is the second event of the eleven race schedule for the CASCAR Super Series in 2006. "This place holds a lot of memories for us - some good and some bad", stated Jacombs.
"We have had a lot of success here with several top five finishes and we like to run here. But it is also the scene of one of the lowest points in my racing career when our race hauler with all of our equipment and race car was stolen from a hotel parking lot before the race in August of 2000. The good in all of that was the CASCAR family of teams rallied around us and loaned us everything we needed to help us wrap up our run to third in the Eastern Point Standings that day. You know when something bad like this happens it makes you proud to be part of such a great group of people."
The second event of the 2006 CASCAR season takes place tomorrow with CASCAR practice from 5 - 6:00 p.m., Time Trials at 6:45 p.m. and the green flag drops on the CASCAR 200 at 9:00 p.m.
A full slate of home series races will be featured as well. Unofficial Point Standings: 1. #4 Don Thomson Jr. 2. #22 Scott Steckly 3. #10 Doug Brown 4. #84 J.R. Fitzpatrick 11. #88 Dave Jacombs
Race number one - the Go-Racing.ca 300 from Barrie Speedway in which the #88 Lou's BBQ/CPS Flooring team finished 10th will air on Sportsnet Saturday June 10th at 3:00 p.m. EST. Please check your local listings for more details.
Major Sponsor Lou’s – TMF – The Meat Factory has celebrated 26 successful years as an industry leader producing Premium Quality Meat Products. TMF oversees the development of their four key brands – Lou’s fully cooked Restaurant Style entrees, Lou’s Peameal Bacon of Canada, Limited Edition portion steaks and The Meat Factory. Their HACCP facility has state of the art equipment and recent expansion has been designed to meet industry food safety needs as well as developing unique time saving products for both their Foodservice and Retail Customers across Canada.
Jacombs Racing is supported by a group of sponsors and product supporters that includes, Lou’s BBQ, CPS Flooring, New Generation Racing Engines, Canadian Linen, Wix Filters, Corteco, Praxair and Kool Graphics.
For more information on the CASCAR Super Series please visit www.cascar.ca
For more information on the Jacombs Racing Team please visit: www.jacombsracing.ca
Linda Jones // LJM Marketing // ljmmarketing@look.ca
LE MANS REPEAT IN THE WORKS FOR MULTIMATIC-PANOZ?
Braselton, Ga. - If ever there was a chance for the Panoz marque to stand on the top of the podium at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, this may be it.
Hopes and expectations are high for the Canadian team from the American Le Mans Series and its Panoz Esperante GTLM at the most prestigious race in the world, set for next week at the famed Circuit de la Sarthe. The Panoz already has taken one endurance victory this year - the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring. Multimatic also has tasted victory at Le Mans with an LMP675 victory in 2000.
"The Panoz brand has become a crowd favorite in France over the years and we would love to give the fans something to cheer about with a podium finish next week," said team VP and Technical Director Larry Holt. "Le Mans is a significant challenge but a victory in the GT2 class is certainly our target. If everything falls into place, a repeat of our Sebring win is not out of the question."
The task falls this time on drivers Scott Maxwell (a Multimatic driver at Le Mans in 2000), Gunnar Jeannette and 24 Hours rookie Tom Milner. All three completed laps at the Le Mans Test Day on Sunday, although the team did face some difficulties with engine problems.
But based on its performance in the American Le Mans Series, the Panoz Esperante definitely is a GT2 contender in just its second appearance at Le Mans. In addition to winning at Sebring, the team also finished second at Mid-Ohio in the most recent Series round prior to the Le Mans break.
"It would mean a lot, and not just for me," Maxwell said. "Representing Canada and Panoz as a team would be special. We have a realistic chance of being there. We have the speed and we just need a little reliability to keep up with the Porsches and be around for a good result."
"Winning the 24 Hours would be the biggest thing ever in my life," Jeanette said. "It's what I've grown up around. I finished second here before and led the race here a couple of different years. Getting to stand on the top step of the podium would be the pinnacle of my racing career."
The 24 Hours of Le Mans starts at 5 p.m. local time (11. a.m. EDT) on Saturday, June 17 and finishes at 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 18. The race will be broadcast on SPEED Channel in North America and in Europe on MotorsTV, which will have flag-to-flag, extended 24-hour coverage. Live radio coverage will be available at www.radiolemans.com.
The next round of the 2006 American Le Mans Series is the New England Grand Prix, set for July 1 at Lime Rock Park. The race is scheduled for a 3 p.m. EDT start. CBS Sports will televise the event from 4 to 6 p.m. EDT on July 2. MotorsTV will air the race from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. CET on July 2. Live coverage will be available at americanlemans.com with American Le Mans Radio and IMSA Live Timing & Scoring.
- From ALMS
Hopes and expectations are high for the Canadian team from the American Le Mans Series and its Panoz Esperante GTLM at the most prestigious race in the world, set for next week at the famed Circuit de la Sarthe. The Panoz already has taken one endurance victory this year - the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring. Multimatic also has tasted victory at Le Mans with an LMP675 victory in 2000.
"The Panoz brand has become a crowd favorite in France over the years and we would love to give the fans something to cheer about with a podium finish next week," said team VP and Technical Director Larry Holt. "Le Mans is a significant challenge but a victory in the GT2 class is certainly our target. If everything falls into place, a repeat of our Sebring win is not out of the question."
The task falls this time on drivers Scott Maxwell (a Multimatic driver at Le Mans in 2000), Gunnar Jeannette and 24 Hours rookie Tom Milner. All three completed laps at the Le Mans Test Day on Sunday, although the team did face some difficulties with engine problems.
But based on its performance in the American Le Mans Series, the Panoz Esperante definitely is a GT2 contender in just its second appearance at Le Mans. In addition to winning at Sebring, the team also finished second at Mid-Ohio in the most recent Series round prior to the Le Mans break.
"It would mean a lot, and not just for me," Maxwell said. "Representing Canada and Panoz as a team would be special. We have a realistic chance of being there. We have the speed and we just need a little reliability to keep up with the Porsches and be around for a good result."
"Winning the 24 Hours would be the biggest thing ever in my life," Jeanette said. "It's what I've grown up around. I finished second here before and led the race here a couple of different years. Getting to stand on the top step of the podium would be the pinnacle of my racing career."
The 24 Hours of Le Mans starts at 5 p.m. local time (11. a.m. EDT) on Saturday, June 17 and finishes at 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 18. The race will be broadcast on SPEED Channel in North America and in Europe on MotorsTV, which will have flag-to-flag, extended 24-hour coverage. Live radio coverage will be available at www.radiolemans.com.
The next round of the 2006 American Le Mans Series is the New England Grand Prix, set for July 1 at Lime Rock Park. The race is scheduled for a 3 p.m. EDT start. CBS Sports will televise the event from 4 to 6 p.m. EDT on July 2. MotorsTV will air the race from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. CET on July 2. Live coverage will be available at americanlemans.com with American Le Mans Radio and IMSA Live Timing & Scoring.
- From ALMS
CASCAR: St-Eustache Event Preview
CASCAR Super Series heads to Montreal’s Autodrome St-Eustache for the CASCAR 200
TORONTO, ON – After a three-week pause in the schedule, the CASCAR Super Series returns to action this Saturday night (June 10) with a 200-lap race at Montreal’s Autodrome St-Eustache. The flat, 4/10-mile oval always produces an exciting spectacle. Ford driver Kerry Micks is the defending race winner at St-Eustache.
The Mt. Albert, ON resident took the lead on lap 118 of the Whelen 200 last June and never looked back en route to his first of two feature wins in 2005. DJ Kennington (Castrol Dodge Charger) and Ron Beauchamp Jr. (MOPAR Dodge Charger) were second and third, respectively.
Reigning and five-time CASCAR National champion Don Thomson Jr. will head to Montreal in a familiar position. The Home Hardware Chevy driver holds the Super Series points lead after one event, just 10 markers in front of Scott Steckly, who won the season opener at Barrie Speedway. The Barrie race on the May long weekend was a physical affair and there are several racers who are looking to bounce back at St-Eustache after being involved in incidents during the GO-RACING.CA 300.
There have been whispers in the weeks since that some racers’ tempers have yet to subside in the wake of the Barrie event. One driver who is more concerned about getting to victory lane than settling grudges is Super Series veteran Brad Graham, of Glencoe, ON.
The Challenger Motor Freight / Logel’s Auto Parts Dodge Charger driver won the CASCAR Sportsman Series title in 2004, but has yet to win a feature race in the sanctioning body’s elite division. Graham came close on several occasions in 2005, but it was the St-Eustache race in 2003 that still sticks out in his mind as ‘the one that got away.’
In that event, Graham started on the pole and led the first 167 laps before his car’s handling went away and he fell to fourth at the finish. Three weeks ago, at Barrie Speedway, Scott Steckly got the proverbial ‘monkey off his back’ when he won his first career Super Series feature. Brad Graham is hoping Steckly started a trend and that he, too, will be able to shed the reputation of being one of the series’ top racers who has yet to win a race.
ST-EUSTACHE NOTEBOOK: During last year’s visit to Autodrome St-Eustache, veteran racer Peter Gibbons earned the pole for the feature with a lap of 17.767 seconds. The effort ended a personal pole-qualifying drought for the Canadian Tire Chevy driver, which dated back to June 29, 2003 at Cayuga Speedway…
FLO~PRO.COM WESTERN SERIES: The FLO~PRO.COM CASCAR Western Series will be in action this weekend at Vernon, BC’s Sun Valley Motor Speedway. Saturday’s event is Race #2 on the schedule for the Western Series. Back in May, former series champion Daryl Harr returned to the tour in glorious fashion by taking the checkered flag in the season opener at Sun Valley. The St. Albert, AB racer led the final 32 laps in his #71 Westworld Chevy, coming home in front of Jim White and Daryl’s father, Carl Harr. Reigning Western Series champ Kevin Dowler was fourth in the opener.
MARGARET GIBBONS: The CASCAR community was recently saddened to hear of the passing of Margaret Gibbons, the mother of Super Series veteran Peter Gibbons. Margaret was a fan of Peter's racing efforts and it was special for him when she was able to join he and the rest of the team in victory lane, following a win. CASCAR extends its condolences to the entire Gibbons family for their loss.
CASCAR ON TV: Catch the GO-RACING.CA 300 CASCAR Super Series season opener from Barrie Speedway on Saturday, June 10 on SPORTSNET. For information regarding initial airings and replays of Super Series races, please check your local listings or visit http://www.cascar.ca/schedule/tv_schedule.html.
SCHEDULE: AUTODROME ST-EUSTACHE (Montreal, Quebec)
CASCAR Super Series // CASCAR 200
SATURDAY, JUNE 10, 2006
5: 00 p.m. CASCAR Practice
6:45 p.m. CASCAR Time Trials & Impound
7:15 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. St-Eustache Division Heats & Features
8:30 p.m. Driver Introductions
9:00 p.m. START: CASCAR 200 CASCAR SUPER SERIES FEATURE
Contact CASCAR’s Toronto Office at (416) 531-4714 or visit www.cascar.ca
Prepared by Inside Track Communications. // Contact: Greg MacPherson (416) 561-2320 (cell).
Comments regarding additions to – or deletions from – this mailing list should be sent to: greg@insidetracknews.com
TORONTO, ON – After a three-week pause in the schedule, the CASCAR Super Series returns to action this Saturday night (June 10) with a 200-lap race at Montreal’s Autodrome St-Eustache. The flat, 4/10-mile oval always produces an exciting spectacle. Ford driver Kerry Micks is the defending race winner at St-Eustache.
The Mt. Albert, ON resident took the lead on lap 118 of the Whelen 200 last June and never looked back en route to his first of two feature wins in 2005. DJ Kennington (Castrol Dodge Charger) and Ron Beauchamp Jr. (MOPAR Dodge Charger) were second and third, respectively.
Reigning and five-time CASCAR National champion Don Thomson Jr. will head to Montreal in a familiar position. The Home Hardware Chevy driver holds the Super Series points lead after one event, just 10 markers in front of Scott Steckly, who won the season opener at Barrie Speedway. The Barrie race on the May long weekend was a physical affair and there are several racers who are looking to bounce back at St-Eustache after being involved in incidents during the GO-RACING.CA 300.
There have been whispers in the weeks since that some racers’ tempers have yet to subside in the wake of the Barrie event. One driver who is more concerned about getting to victory lane than settling grudges is Super Series veteran Brad Graham, of Glencoe, ON.
The Challenger Motor Freight / Logel’s Auto Parts Dodge Charger driver won the CASCAR Sportsman Series title in 2004, but has yet to win a feature race in the sanctioning body’s elite division. Graham came close on several occasions in 2005, but it was the St-Eustache race in 2003 that still sticks out in his mind as ‘the one that got away.’
In that event, Graham started on the pole and led the first 167 laps before his car’s handling went away and he fell to fourth at the finish. Three weeks ago, at Barrie Speedway, Scott Steckly got the proverbial ‘monkey off his back’ when he won his first career Super Series feature. Brad Graham is hoping Steckly started a trend and that he, too, will be able to shed the reputation of being one of the series’ top racers who has yet to win a race.
ST-EUSTACHE NOTEBOOK: During last year’s visit to Autodrome St-Eustache, veteran racer Peter Gibbons earned the pole for the feature with a lap of 17.767 seconds. The effort ended a personal pole-qualifying drought for the Canadian Tire Chevy driver, which dated back to June 29, 2003 at Cayuga Speedway…
FLO~PRO.COM WESTERN SERIES: The FLO~PRO.COM CASCAR Western Series will be in action this weekend at Vernon, BC’s Sun Valley Motor Speedway. Saturday’s event is Race #2 on the schedule for the Western Series. Back in May, former series champion Daryl Harr returned to the tour in glorious fashion by taking the checkered flag in the season opener at Sun Valley. The St. Albert, AB racer led the final 32 laps in his #71 Westworld Chevy, coming home in front of Jim White and Daryl’s father, Carl Harr. Reigning Western Series champ Kevin Dowler was fourth in the opener.
MARGARET GIBBONS: The CASCAR community was recently saddened to hear of the passing of Margaret Gibbons, the mother of Super Series veteran Peter Gibbons. Margaret was a fan of Peter's racing efforts and it was special for him when she was able to join he and the rest of the team in victory lane, following a win. CASCAR extends its condolences to the entire Gibbons family for their loss.
CASCAR ON TV: Catch the GO-RACING.CA 300 CASCAR Super Series season opener from Barrie Speedway on Saturday, June 10 on SPORTSNET. For information regarding initial airings and replays of Super Series races, please check your local listings or visit http://www.cascar.ca/schedule/tv_schedule.html.
SCHEDULE: AUTODROME ST-EUSTACHE (Montreal, Quebec)
CASCAR Super Series // CASCAR 200
SATURDAY, JUNE 10, 2006
5: 00 p.m. CASCAR Practice
6:45 p.m. CASCAR Time Trials & Impound
7:15 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. St-Eustache Division Heats & Features
8:30 p.m. Driver Introductions
9:00 p.m. START: CASCAR 200 CASCAR SUPER SERIES FEATURE
Contact CASCAR’s Toronto Office at (416) 531-4714 or visit www.cascar.ca
Prepared by Inside Track Communications. // Contact: Greg MacPherson (416) 561-2320 (cell).
Comments regarding additions to – or deletions from – this mailing list should be sent to: greg@insidetracknews.com
CENTRE FOR SPEED: SPEEDWAY OFFERS ITS LARGEST 100 LAP SPORTSMAN PURSE
Sportsman Super Series Race 1 Scheduled for Sunday, June 11 @ 2PM
SHEDIAC, NB – The CENTRE for Speed's first "Sportsman Super Series" event is slated for this weekend, Sunday June 11th and the speedway hopes to kick off the 5 race challenge for sportsman teams with a bang.
Among the special incentive aimed at incenting top teams to attend which is intended is the speedways largest Sportsman 100 purse, in excess of $6000 including $2000 to win. The intent of the series is to pit top Sportsman Drivers against each other in a test of skill and endurance for fun and glory over at various distances and at 2 speedways in 2006.
The Events have been scheduled to to allow the maximum number of competitors to attend without conflict to their local schedules as much as possible. The CENTRE has also scheduled lots of fun activities throughout the Series of races, weather permitting, before and after the events including partnerships with third party events and concerts to make sure everyone has a great time in Shediac, regardless of their finish.
On the competition side, one appealing twist to the series is that a competitor who attends as few as 3 events could win the Series Championship which is determined by calculating the best points average, not total points. This recognizes that not all competitors can attend all 5 events. On the other hand competitors are encouraged to attend more events by the ability to "discard" their worst result.
"We're hoping this couple of unique features will increase the number of teams who will want to try for the championship and it'll incent more drivers to come more often", said Tim Wile, GM. "We've always had good success in getting the drivers out with our big events because we always pay well, have a great facility for large races, and try to treat everyone fairly" added Wile.
"I'm hoping for a good count this Sunday if we can get some weather", he concluded. As of this morning 18 teams from throughout the region have registered to attend. Race 1 gets underway this Sunday at 2 PM at the CENTRE. Pre registration is required by calling 506 388-2415.
CENTRE for Speed is located 5 kms from Parlee Beach on Route 133, Shediac.
From: Tim Wile // The Centre for Speed
SHEDIAC, NB – The CENTRE for Speed's first "Sportsman Super Series" event is slated for this weekend, Sunday June 11th and the speedway hopes to kick off the 5 race challenge for sportsman teams with a bang.
Among the special incentive aimed at incenting top teams to attend which is intended is the speedways largest Sportsman 100 purse, in excess of $6000 including $2000 to win. The intent of the series is to pit top Sportsman Drivers against each other in a test of skill and endurance for fun and glory over at various distances and at 2 speedways in 2006.
The Events have been scheduled to to allow the maximum number of competitors to attend without conflict to their local schedules as much as possible. The CENTRE has also scheduled lots of fun activities throughout the Series of races, weather permitting, before and after the events including partnerships with third party events and concerts to make sure everyone has a great time in Shediac, regardless of their finish.
On the competition side, one appealing twist to the series is that a competitor who attends as few as 3 events could win the Series Championship which is determined by calculating the best points average, not total points. This recognizes that not all competitors can attend all 5 events. On the other hand competitors are encouraged to attend more events by the ability to "discard" their worst result.
"We're hoping this couple of unique features will increase the number of teams who will want to try for the championship and it'll incent more drivers to come more often", said Tim Wile, GM. "We've always had good success in getting the drivers out with our big events because we always pay well, have a great facility for large races, and try to treat everyone fairly" added Wile.
"I'm hoping for a good count this Sunday if we can get some weather", he concluded. As of this morning 18 teams from throughout the region have registered to attend. Race 1 gets underway this Sunday at 2 PM at the CENTRE. Pre registration is required by calling 506 388-2415.
CENTRE for Speed is located 5 kms from Parlee Beach on Route 133, Shediac.
From: Tim Wile // The Centre for Speed
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Big Weekend Ahead For Pierre Bourque
Canadian Ready for NASCAR Busch East Debut
GREENVILLE-PICKENS, SC Carolina (June 8, 2006) - "It's the start of the 2006 NASCAR Busch East Series season this weekend at Greenville-Pickens Speedway but for new driver Pierre Bourque, it's the start of an opportunity of a lifetime.
Driving the No. 10 Full Metals Minerals Chevrolet for Andy Hillenburg's Fast Track Racing, Bourque is determined to earn the respect of his fellow competitors while using the first race of the season as a guiding tool towards the remainder of the season.
"I'm very excited about this weekend," said Bourque a native of Ottawa, Ontario. "We think we have a car capable of running very competitive this weekend, but it's all about getting seat time and that's our main goal this weekend."
Bourque has turned to the ARCA RE/MAX Series to prepare himself for a bid at the 2006 NBE Championship. Thus far, the results have been good.
In May, Bourque made his ARCA debut at Winchester Speedway. After practicing mid-pack, he put the pedal to the metal in time trials putting together a quick lap good enough for 24th. During the course of the caution-filled event, Bourque kept his nose clean, listened to the guidance of Hillenburg and reeled in a solid 13th place effort.
"Winchester was a grueling race, but I am very happy with the way that weekend went," recalled Bourque. "We made the show, raced well and the car was in one piece, I don't think we could have asked for anything more."
Even though he's a rookie, Bourque won't head into Greenville-Pickens Speedway totally off guard as his FTR (Fast Track Racing) team recently spent a day testing at the facility in preparation for this weekend's event.
Bourque kept a solid pace all day long turning competitive times and just a half-second off of the fastest car at the track driven by Sean Cassie under the direction of former NASCAR Busch East champion Andy Santerre. In addition to intense testing conditions, Bourque was able to experience one of the most challenging conditions racecar drivers face, the heat.
"The test was a learning curve," remarked Bourque. "I've never experienced the heat before like that in a racecar and it was a good experience, it prepares me for the future. Overall, the test went exceptionally well and I think we'll be solid all weekend."
While Bourque rolls into the race as a rookie, he'll have plenty of experience on his side with Andy Hillenburg. Hillenburg was the 1995 ARCA champion and continues to be involved in the series as a car owner while continuing to promote his Fast Track Driving School in North Carolina. "Having Andy on my side is an asset," mentioned Bourque. "He is the reason for my early success in stock car racing and I'm excited about our future together."
"While the goal is to win, I want to finish the races this season in the Busch East schedule. We've set a couple goals for ourselves for the rest of the year and I think we can achieve them. The goal is to use the remainder of the year as a 'test session' preparing for further events in the ARCA RE/MAX Series later this year. I know that Andy Hillenburg and his staff will provide me with the equipment allowing me to be very competitive off the truck and that's a good feeling."
The Busch East Series 150 (150 laps/200 miles) is the first of 11 events on the 2006 NASCAR Busch East Series schedule. Practice begins Friday, June 9th with an optional practice. The second round of practice begins Saturday, June 10th with a two hour (1:00pm-3:00pm EST) session planned. Busch pole qualifying is on tap Saturday afternoon (6:00pm EST) with the race set to take the green flag later that night at 8:00pm EST. The race will be broadcasted live in high-definition television on HDNet.
In the coming weeks, Bourque will unveil a new racing website.
###
DATE: June 8th, 2006
NAME: Chris Knight, Fast Track Racing
PHONE: 734-674-9108
EMAIL: Knight849@aol.com
GREENVILLE-PICKENS, SC Carolina (June 8, 2006) - "It's the start of the 2006 NASCAR Busch East Series season this weekend at Greenville-Pickens Speedway but for new driver Pierre Bourque, it's the start of an opportunity of a lifetime.
Driving the No. 10 Full Metals Minerals Chevrolet for Andy Hillenburg's Fast Track Racing, Bourque is determined to earn the respect of his fellow competitors while using the first race of the season as a guiding tool towards the remainder of the season.
"I'm very excited about this weekend," said Bourque a native of Ottawa, Ontario. "We think we have a car capable of running very competitive this weekend, but it's all about getting seat time and that's our main goal this weekend."
Bourque has turned to the ARCA RE/MAX Series to prepare himself for a bid at the 2006 NBE Championship. Thus far, the results have been good.
In May, Bourque made his ARCA debut at Winchester Speedway. After practicing mid-pack, he put the pedal to the metal in time trials putting together a quick lap good enough for 24th. During the course of the caution-filled event, Bourque kept his nose clean, listened to the guidance of Hillenburg and reeled in a solid 13th place effort.
"Winchester was a grueling race, but I am very happy with the way that weekend went," recalled Bourque. "We made the show, raced well and the car was in one piece, I don't think we could have asked for anything more."
Even though he's a rookie, Bourque won't head into Greenville-Pickens Speedway totally off guard as his FTR (Fast Track Racing) team recently spent a day testing at the facility in preparation for this weekend's event.
Bourque kept a solid pace all day long turning competitive times and just a half-second off of the fastest car at the track driven by Sean Cassie under the direction of former NASCAR Busch East champion Andy Santerre. In addition to intense testing conditions, Bourque was able to experience one of the most challenging conditions racecar drivers face, the heat.
"The test was a learning curve," remarked Bourque. "I've never experienced the heat before like that in a racecar and it was a good experience, it prepares me for the future. Overall, the test went exceptionally well and I think we'll be solid all weekend."
While Bourque rolls into the race as a rookie, he'll have plenty of experience on his side with Andy Hillenburg. Hillenburg was the 1995 ARCA champion and continues to be involved in the series as a car owner while continuing to promote his Fast Track Driving School in North Carolina. "Having Andy on my side is an asset," mentioned Bourque. "He is the reason for my early success in stock car racing and I'm excited about our future together."
"While the goal is to win, I want to finish the races this season in the Busch East schedule. We've set a couple goals for ourselves for the rest of the year and I think we can achieve them. The goal is to use the remainder of the year as a 'test session' preparing for further events in the ARCA RE/MAX Series later this year. I know that Andy Hillenburg and his staff will provide me with the equipment allowing me to be very competitive off the truck and that's a good feeling."
The Busch East Series 150 (150 laps/200 miles) is the first of 11 events on the 2006 NASCAR Busch East Series schedule. Practice begins Friday, June 9th with an optional practice. The second round of practice begins Saturday, June 10th with a two hour (1:00pm-3:00pm EST) session planned. Busch pole qualifying is on tap Saturday afternoon (6:00pm EST) with the race set to take the green flag later that night at 8:00pm EST. The race will be broadcasted live in high-definition television on HDNet.
In the coming weeks, Bourque will unveil a new racing website.
###
DATE: June 8th, 2006
NAME: Chris Knight, Fast Track Racing
PHONE: 734-674-9108
EMAIL: Knight849@aol.com
I guess it's a compliment....
Want to hear a funny one?
Some of our advertising clients are being told by sales people at competing (to use the term loosely) publications that they are "affiliated" with Inside Track Motorsport News.
Obviously, they are doing this to make money based on our credibility in terms of coverage of Canadian motorsports. Because when it comes to them.... well, not so much.
Inside Track Communications publishes: Inside Track Motorsport News, Inside Motorcycles, Inside MotoX, On the Grid and Inside Karting (as an insert to ITMN).
There are no other publications "affiliated" with our company. If you have been told otherwise, you have been lied to and should demand your money back.
CASCAR on TV
Joel Robinson (at right) passed along a note saying that the first round of the CASCAR Super Series - from the May long weekend at Barrie Speedway, will be on SPORTSNET this Saturday, June 10, at 3:00 p.m.Click here for full broadcast details.
News & Notes
Sunset Speedway has paved its pit road....
Barrie Speedway series kicks off on Saturday:
The CARQUEST Pro Stock Tour will take another shot at opening their season, this Sunday at Scotia Speedworld.
***
Lucas Oil Flamboro Speedway will host the Grisdale Triple Crown Series on Saturday, with a Sunday rain date. The Lucas Oil Can-Am Midgets will also take another shot at beating the weatherman, at Flamboro, the same night.
***
OSCAAR: "ASA Alloys Inc recently joined with Phil Bullen's OSCAAR team #67 as announced here May 22: "New Sponsor For Phil Bullen". At Kawartha Speedway on June 2, the very sharp looking #67 car prominently displayed the ASA Alloys Inc logo."
***
The Canadian Vintage Modifieds will be at Steelback Sauble Speedway this Saturday.
The news above is culled from various sites that I frequent. To be included, please us your press releases... because we can't promote your events and teams if we don't know about it. Forward blog-worthy correspondence to James Neilson and Greg MacPherson.
"The pit paving project has been completed, well ahead of schedule! Crews came in on Monday looking to prepare the surface to take the asphalt. The prep went so well that the asphalt was ordered early, arriving at 3:00pm, and the whole job was done by the end of the evening. This will certainly cut down on the dust in the pits and make it easier for drivers to get on and off their pads...."***
Barrie Speedway series kicks off on Saturday:
The first round of the Tracy Daytona's three race King of the Hill series is slated for June 10 right here at Barrie Speedway. Round 2 will go August 19th with the final round set for September 2nd. The top points finisher will be awarded $500.00, second will take home $300.00 with third in points receiving $200.00. Each will also receive a plaque, all courtesy of Tracey Daytona's. Check out Tracy Daytona's at 221 Cundles Road East in Barrie***
The CARQUEST Pro Stock Tour will take another shot at opening their season, this Sunday at Scotia Speedworld.
***
Lucas Oil Flamboro Speedway will host the Grisdale Triple Crown Series on Saturday, with a Sunday rain date. The Lucas Oil Can-Am Midgets will also take another shot at beating the weatherman, at Flamboro, the same night.
***
OSCAAR: "ASA Alloys Inc recently joined with Phil Bullen's OSCAAR team #67 as announced here May 22: "New Sponsor For Phil Bullen". At Kawartha Speedway on June 2, the very sharp looking #67 car prominently displayed the ASA Alloys Inc logo."
***
The Canadian Vintage Modifieds will be at Steelback Sauble Speedway this Saturday.
***
Nice to see Race City is in action.
Oval racing this weekend:June 10 Caltronics Saturday Night Stocks, featuring IMCA Modifieds, LegendsCars, Hobby Stocks and the X-Treme Sprints. Gates open at 6:00pm and racingat 7:00pm. Country 105 family night. 2 adults, 2 children, 4 hotdogs, 4 popsall for only $23.99.
... although I don't recall Matt Kenseth racing there (see their site to see what I'm talking about).
***
The folks at Capital City Speedway are doing everything they can to spread the word that their track is 'back'.
That's it for a while. CASCAR will be in action with its Super Series (St. Eustache) and Western Series (Sun Valley) on Saturday night.*One of the things that will help us rebuild the spectator base at Capital City Speedway is promoting it every chance we get. And one of those chances is going to come along next Tues. June 13th, as along with Rick Rump and John Holtan, Brian Copp and Charlie Price we will be on display at the Scotia Bank Place with Late Model cars as people attend the George Straight concert. Country music which has for ever been associated with Stock Car racing very strong in this area it is only a natural to take this opportunity to get the word out that stock car racing is alive and well at Capital City Speedway. It will take many promotions such as this to get that word out, but we will be doing them every opportunity we get. So if you happen to be one of the lucky ones heading to the concert on Tues night of next week make sure you drop by and say hello.
The news above is culled from various sites that I frequent. To be included, please us your press releases... because we can't promote your events and teams if we don't know about it. Forward blog-worthy correspondence to James Neilson and Greg MacPherson.
BRIGHTON: SCHOOL ZONE.. DRIVE CAREFULLY??
BRIGHTON, ON – There will definitely be no School Zone Drive Carefully signs posted when the Workman Auto Repair and Montgomery Transit Bus School Bus Races take to the track on Saturday, June 17th at Brighton Speedway Park.
Being added to the Campbellford Chrysler Complete Race Program this show of massive machines being driven hard and fast around the 1/3 mile clay oval was postponed due to rain on June 4th.
The competition for the coveted gold cup, and bragging rights that will last until they return for more on September 9th,is sure to be entertaining and exciting, and an appropriate send off to the school year for our younger fans.
The Lawns We Do Lawn Mower Racing originally scheduled for the 17th is being postponed until a later date. Brighton Speedway Park Management is working with the Lawn Mower Racing Association to confirm a date that works best for both of them. They are dedicated to keeping the high speed “choppers” in the line-up of racing entertainment, but as of press time there has been no date commitment.
For more information about the scheduled events at Brighton Speedway Park visit http://www.brightonspeedway.com/ or call 613.475.1102. Green flag flies at 7pm every Saturday Night from April until October.
- Submitted by Brenda Whitehead – Communications Director
MERRITTVILLE: JUNE 17 PREVIEW: SPRINT CAR PREVIEW AND POSTER CONTEST ADDED TO SMS MACHINE DEMO DERBY NIGHT
THOROLD, ONTARIO … Race Fans can look forward to a Big night of DIRT-sanctioned excitement at Merrittville Speedway as SMS Machine presents the season’s first Demolition Derby Saturday June 17th.
In preparation for June 24th’s Bobcat of Buffalo Patriot Sprint Group visit presented by David Chevrolet Corvette, many of the local Sprint Car Drivers will be in attendance – looking for the home track advantage.
Also joining the show on the 17th is the Ball Hockey International Poster Contest that was originally scheduled for June 3rd.
“With the Sprint Cars … the Poster Contest … the Demo Derby and the 5 Dirt Weekly Racing Series Divisions,” relates (Merrittville GM) Erica Bicknell, “ race fans are in for quite a night and it’s still $10 for Adults … you can’t go wrong.”
The Demolition Derby will close out the Weekly Racing Series action that only the 358 Modifieds, Sportsmen, Dwarf Cars, Hoosier Stocks and 4 Cylinders can provide on the Thorold track’s tricky d-shaped clay oval.
SMS Machine Tools Limited has been supplying it’s customers with state of the art equipment from the world’s leading manufacturers since 1959.
SMS Machine has developed into one of Canada’s foremost machine distributors, providing clients with leading edge technology machine tools and automated manufacturing. For further information visit www.smsmachine.com.
Demolition Derby Rules are available by calling the Speedway Office at 905-892-8266 or by visiting www.merrittvillespeedway.com or from the Novelty Booth on any race event.
In preparation for June 24th’s Bobcat of Buffalo Patriot Sprint Group visit presented by David Chevrolet Corvette, many of the local Sprint Car Drivers will be in attendance – looking for the home track advantage.
Also joining the show on the 17th is the Ball Hockey International Poster Contest that was originally scheduled for June 3rd.
“With the Sprint Cars … the Poster Contest … the Demo Derby and the 5 Dirt Weekly Racing Series Divisions,” relates (Merrittville GM) Erica Bicknell, “ race fans are in for quite a night and it’s still $10 for Adults … you can’t go wrong.”
The Demolition Derby will close out the Weekly Racing Series action that only the 358 Modifieds, Sportsmen, Dwarf Cars, Hoosier Stocks and 4 Cylinders can provide on the Thorold track’s tricky d-shaped clay oval.
SMS Machine Tools Limited has been supplying it’s customers with state of the art equipment from the world’s leading manufacturers since 1959.
SMS Machine has developed into one of Canada’s foremost machine distributors, providing clients with leading edge technology machine tools and automated manufacturing. For further information visit www.smsmachine.com.
Demolition Derby Rules are available by calling the Speedway Office at 905-892-8266 or by visiting www.merrittvillespeedway.com or from the Novelty Booth on any race event.
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Sunoco’s Ultra 94 team set for season opener
Adriano Bilotta, Devin Cunningham, Kyle Marcelli and Daniel Morad ready for season opener of Bridgestone F2000 series
Russ Bond Agency
MOSPORT, ONTARIO – Three of the four Sunoco Team Ultra 94 members took part in a two day lapping session at Mosport earlier this week in anticipation of the first Bridgestone Academy F2000 series championship races that will be held on June 9-11. The three drivers – Adriano Bilotta, Devin Cunningham and Kyle Marcelli – went though training sessions in both wet and dry conditions.
“It was good to get back in these cars,” Cunningham said. “We were lucky to get sessions in both the wet and dry during the two days. I think it will really help all of us next weekend.” Cunningham, the first Quebec driver to join the team is anxious to see just how the opening weekend goes. “All of us were very close, and as teammates we have a reputation to uphold for both Sunoco and Ron Fellows in this series. I know we are in good shape to have a good year here.”
Kyle Marcelli, who is coming off his first win in the headline Formula Senior class in the Sunoco Ron Fellows Karting Championship presented by Toronto Star Wheels is getting used to the changes from karting to cars. “It’s really different in these cars compared to the karts,” Marcelli said. “I can’t wait to race. We learned a lot from the instructors here, and I hope that next weekend will go good for all of us.”
The final driver taking part in the training days was Adriano Bilotta, and he was pushing hard each time he was on the track. “I was really working on my braking,” Bilotta said. “It is much tougher here than in the karts, and these two days have really helped. It is good to have teammates so we can talk to each other, and help each other.”
The team – since its inception – has won the Bridgestone Academy Series every year, and that is not lost on the new team members. “It is on our mind for sure,” Cunningham said. “The list of champions that have come from this team is second to none. I am sure one of us will add to that list.”
The fourth Sunoco Ultra 94 driver Daniel Morad, was unable to be at the sessions as he was competing in the Formula BMW USA championship at Lime Rock this past weekend.
Russ Bond Agency
MOSPORT, ONTARIO – Three of the four Sunoco Team Ultra 94 members took part in a two day lapping session at Mosport earlier this week in anticipation of the first Bridgestone Academy F2000 series championship races that will be held on June 9-11. The three drivers – Adriano Bilotta, Devin Cunningham and Kyle Marcelli – went though training sessions in both wet and dry conditions.
“It was good to get back in these cars,” Cunningham said. “We were lucky to get sessions in both the wet and dry during the two days. I think it will really help all of us next weekend.” Cunningham, the first Quebec driver to join the team is anxious to see just how the opening weekend goes. “All of us were very close, and as teammates we have a reputation to uphold for both Sunoco and Ron Fellows in this series. I know we are in good shape to have a good year here.”
Kyle Marcelli, who is coming off his first win in the headline Formula Senior class in the Sunoco Ron Fellows Karting Championship presented by Toronto Star Wheels is getting used to the changes from karting to cars. “It’s really different in these cars compared to the karts,” Marcelli said. “I can’t wait to race. We learned a lot from the instructors here, and I hope that next weekend will go good for all of us.”
The final driver taking part in the training days was Adriano Bilotta, and he was pushing hard each time he was on the track. “I was really working on my braking,” Bilotta said. “It is much tougher here than in the karts, and these two days have really helped. It is good to have teammates so we can talk to each other, and help each other.”
The team – since its inception – has won the Bridgestone Academy Series every year, and that is not lost on the new team members. “It is on our mind for sure,” Cunningham said. “The list of champions that have come from this team is second to none. I am sure one of us will add to that list.”
The fourth Sunoco Ultra 94 driver Daniel Morad, was unable to be at the sessions as he was competing in the Formula BMW USA championship at Lime Rock this past weekend.
Ontario Formula Ford Challenge News
June 5, 2006, Ajax, ON - The Ontario Formula Ford Challenge is proud to announce that Glenn Butt of Mosport fame has agreed to be the official voice of the OFFC series. Glenn brings with him his vast knowledge of the Ontario Formula Ford drivers in the OFFC series and is a welcomed edition to the team. Glenn will be the series announcer for the remainder of the 2006 season.
The Ontario Formula Ford Challenge is also pleased to announce that Vintage Tyre Limited in conjunction with Britain West Motorsports have agreed to supply the 2006 Rookie winner of the OFFC a full set of tyres (4) for the 2007 season. The OFFC would like to thank Britain West and Vintage Tyre for this generous offer. The top Rookie will be decided using the Class point system. The same rules apply for the Rookie Champion as the Class Champion.
Glenn Butt will also be involved with future video projects and other media ventures pertaining to the OFFC.
For more info contact David Hilton at info@offc.ca
OFFC (Ontario Formula Ford Challenge) www.offc.ca
The Ontario Formula Ford Championship sponsored by Dunlop tires is a competitive, economical, and very enjoyable series of races designed to challenge everyone from the budding Professional to the seasoned Master and of course welcoming rookies of all ages.
The Ontario Formula Ford Challenge is also pleased to announce that Vintage Tyre Limited in conjunction with Britain West Motorsports have agreed to supply the 2006 Rookie winner of the OFFC a full set of tyres (4) for the 2007 season. The OFFC would like to thank Britain West and Vintage Tyre for this generous offer. The top Rookie will be decided using the Class point system. The same rules apply for the Rookie Champion as the Class Champion.
Glenn Butt will also be involved with future video projects and other media ventures pertaining to the OFFC.
For more info contact David Hilton at info@offc.ca
OFFC (Ontario Formula Ford Challenge) www.offc.ca
The Ontario Formula Ford Championship sponsored by Dunlop tires is a competitive, economical, and very enjoyable series of races designed to challenge everyone from the budding Professional to the seasoned Master and of course welcoming rookies of all ages.
Heroes Homecoming reunion at Lancaster Raceway Park June 17
Courtesy John Bisci
LANCASTER, N.Y. – Lancaster Raceway Park (formerly known as Lancaster Speedway) will present its annual Heroes Homecoming reunion Saturday, June 17, from 1-5 p.m. The event reunites retired Lancaster Speedway drivers and officials with race fans to relive the good old days of stock car racing at the 48-year-old, half-mile asphalt track near Buffalo, N.Y. The reunion is sponsored by UBS and the FOAR SCORE Fan Club and also will feature vintage stock car racing in the afternoon and evening at the speedway.
The speedway is extending an invitation to all retired Lancaster Speedway drivers and officials. Drivers and officials wishing to participate are asked to contact Marilyn Toal at (585) 663-0004 as soon as possible to be placed on the VIP guest list.
Retired racing stars who already have agreed to participate this year include: 1967 Lancaster Modified champion Chuck Boos, Modified legend Dutch Hoag, Mike Loescher, Fred Butz, Bobby Owens, Late Model racer Frank Batista, early-1970s Late Model and Modified driver Dave VanValkenburg, Jim Smoker, Roger Boas (driver of the famous No. 114 Falcon and coupe), ‘70s Late Model and Modified driver Jim Howard, Modified and Supermodified standout Tommy Leeson, Bobby Hudson, Brian Horn, dirt and asphalt Modified superstar Ken Meahl, Phil Edwards, Bill Bitterman, Rod Spaulding, Turner Brothers’ Modified and Supermodified pilot Gary Reichert, Larry Nye, Dick Kluth, Dan Willmes, Dean Wright, former All-Canadian champion Ted Renshaw, and the father-son Mini-Stock team of Ron McDonald Sr. and Ron McDonald Jr. Dozens more are expected to sign on as the event draws near. Last year, 53 heroes returned to the famed oval and drag strip
The afternoon’s activities will include an autograph session, group photo with all drivers and officials by speedway photographer Dan Kollander, vintage race car display, Lancaster Speedway video and memorabilia display and vintage stock car racing. Veteran motorsports announcer Ken Hangauer Jr. has been invited to act as M.C. The speedway will offer “1960s prices” at its concession stands from 1-5 p.m.
Vintage Lancaster Speedway photos – as well as copies of John Bisci's book, "Lancaster Heroes," a pictorial history of Lancaster Speedway from 1966-76 – will be available at the event.
Lancaster Raceway Park also will present a complete program of stock car racing on its half-mile paved oval at 6:30 p.m. Classes will include: Modifieds, Late Models, SST Sportsman, Super Stocks, Street Stocks, TQ Midgets and vintage race cars.
Fans attending the 1-5 p.m. Heroes Homecoming session will be admitted at half price until 4 p.m.
Regular admission prices will be charged after 4 p.m. – $12 for adults, $10 for senior citizens, $5 for kids 8-15. Kids under the age of 8 are admitted at $1.
Lancaster Raceway Park is located at 57 Gunnville Road in Lancaster, N.Y., just east of N.Y. State Thruway Exit 49. For more information, please call the speedway at (716) 759-6818 or visit online at www.lancasterracing.com.
LANCASTER, N.Y. – Lancaster Raceway Park (formerly known as Lancaster Speedway) will present its annual Heroes Homecoming reunion Saturday, June 17, from 1-5 p.m. The event reunites retired Lancaster Speedway drivers and officials with race fans to relive the good old days of stock car racing at the 48-year-old, half-mile asphalt track near Buffalo, N.Y. The reunion is sponsored by UBS and the FOAR SCORE Fan Club and also will feature vintage stock car racing in the afternoon and evening at the speedway.
The speedway is extending an invitation to all retired Lancaster Speedway drivers and officials. Drivers and officials wishing to participate are asked to contact Marilyn Toal at (585) 663-0004 as soon as possible to be placed on the VIP guest list.
Retired racing stars who already have agreed to participate this year include: 1967 Lancaster Modified champion Chuck Boos, Modified legend Dutch Hoag, Mike Loescher, Fred Butz, Bobby Owens, Late Model racer Frank Batista, early-1970s Late Model and Modified driver Dave VanValkenburg, Jim Smoker, Roger Boas (driver of the famous No. 114 Falcon and coupe), ‘70s Late Model and Modified driver Jim Howard, Modified and Supermodified standout Tommy Leeson, Bobby Hudson, Brian Horn, dirt and asphalt Modified superstar Ken Meahl, Phil Edwards, Bill Bitterman, Rod Spaulding, Turner Brothers’ Modified and Supermodified pilot Gary Reichert, Larry Nye, Dick Kluth, Dan Willmes, Dean Wright, former All-Canadian champion Ted Renshaw, and the father-son Mini-Stock team of Ron McDonald Sr. and Ron McDonald Jr. Dozens more are expected to sign on as the event draws near. Last year, 53 heroes returned to the famed oval and drag strip
The afternoon’s activities will include an autograph session, group photo with all drivers and officials by speedway photographer Dan Kollander, vintage race car display, Lancaster Speedway video and memorabilia display and vintage stock car racing. Veteran motorsports announcer Ken Hangauer Jr. has been invited to act as M.C. The speedway will offer “1960s prices” at its concession stands from 1-5 p.m.
Vintage Lancaster Speedway photos – as well as copies of John Bisci's book, "Lancaster Heroes," a pictorial history of Lancaster Speedway from 1966-76 – will be available at the event.
Lancaster Raceway Park also will present a complete program of stock car racing on its half-mile paved oval at 6:30 p.m. Classes will include: Modifieds, Late Models, SST Sportsman, Super Stocks, Street Stocks, TQ Midgets and vintage race cars.
Fans attending the 1-5 p.m. Heroes Homecoming session will be admitted at half price until 4 p.m.
Regular admission prices will be charged after 4 p.m. – $12 for adults, $10 for senior citizens, $5 for kids 8-15. Kids under the age of 8 are admitted at $1.
Lancaster Raceway Park is located at 57 Gunnville Road in Lancaster, N.Y., just east of N.Y. State Thruway Exit 49. For more information, please call the speedway at (716) 759-6818 or visit online at www.lancasterracing.com.
Michael Potekhen rolls to victory on the Milwaukee Mile
Courtesy Eric McCombs
June 3, 2006 / Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Michael Potekhen jumped into the lead on lap 28 and never looked back, guiding his #53 Apex Racing Centerpoint Communities Mazda to victory today in Round Four of the Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear, held this afternoon at the historic Milwaukee Mile as part of the Champ Car World Series Time Warner Cable Road Runner 225 weekend activities. Championship points leader Daniel Herrington, finished second in today's 100-lap event, 0.243 seconds behind the leader in his #3 AIM Autosport Bluetooth Mazda. Finishing third to complete the podium was Robbie Pecorari, driving the #8 John Walko Racing Maxwell Paper Products Mazda.
"The Apex Racing Team has really come together these past few races and the results for both myself my team owner Ken Losch, who finished sixth today, prove it," Potekhen explained. "When you're racing on an oval 90% of the success comes down to the car setup and my car was working perfectly today. Having experience with oval racing also helped give me the upper hand over Daniel and other drivers that might not have that experience. In the closing laps my spotter was giving me the gap over the radio and while he was closing in at the end I was able to manage the gap to the finish."
Herrington had his hands full chasing down Potekhen, the Winston-Salem, North Carolina resident working his way from seventh on the grid, passing Pecorari for third place on lap 39 and getting past pole position winner Adrian Carrio for second place nine laps later. "My car was working really well today and we were closing on Michael in the final laps but I'm not sure if I could've got around him," Herrington explained. "My car was a little loose throughout the session but it was also fast and the caution flags also helped us close the gap a couple of times as I worked through the field."
Finishing on the podium was a perfect ending for Pecorari, a last minute replacement when regular driver Ross Smith fell ill, who was able to slip past Carrio on the final lap to take the last podium spot. "It looked like Adrian got held up by lap traffic coming out of turn two on the final lap and I made an all or nothing move to the inside as we came to turn three and was able to make it onto the podium," Pecorari said. "I have to thank the Smith family, Maxwell Paper Products and John Walko Racing for giving me the opportunity to come here this weekend and step in when Ross couldn't make it, what better way to say thanks than a podium finish."
With a quarter of the season complete Herrington maintains his place on top of the championship with 153 points. Carrio, who finished fourth on the day, holds onto second place with 145 points and Potekhen slips into sole possession of third place with 142 points.
In the Expert Championship, for drivers aged 30-44, Gerardo Bonilla captured the class victory in his #9 Carmela Sausages Andersen Racing Team Mazda and holds first place with 71 points. Brian Thienes finished second on track and holds second place with 58 points and Dan Tomlin III sits third with 54 points. In the Masters Championship, for drivers aged 45 and older, Ken Losch, driving the #52 Apex Racing Centerpoint Communities Mazda was the class winner finishing sixth overall, and moves into first place with 63 points. John Pew falls to second place with 60 points and Doug Peterson holds onto third with 53 points.
In the Team Championship AIM Autosport remains in first with 77 points while World Speed Motorsports is second with 74 points. Apex Racing makes a huge leap in the points, rising from seventh to third with 71 points overall.
The series now heads north to Canada to take part in the Formula One Grand Prix of Canada weekend at the Gilles Villeneuve Circuit in Montreal for Round Five of the Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear on June 23-24. Round Four from the Milwaukee is scheduled to air at 1:00 PM Eastern Time on Sunday, June 18th. For more information please visit www.starmazda.com.
June 3, 2006 / Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Michael Potekhen jumped into the lead on lap 28 and never looked back, guiding his #53 Apex Racing Centerpoint Communities Mazda to victory today in Round Four of the Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear, held this afternoon at the historic Milwaukee Mile as part of the Champ Car World Series Time Warner Cable Road Runner 225 weekend activities. Championship points leader Daniel Herrington, finished second in today's 100-lap event, 0.243 seconds behind the leader in his #3 AIM Autosport Bluetooth Mazda. Finishing third to complete the podium was Robbie Pecorari, driving the #8 John Walko Racing Maxwell Paper Products Mazda.
"The Apex Racing Team has really come together these past few races and the results for both myself my team owner Ken Losch, who finished sixth today, prove it," Potekhen explained. "When you're racing on an oval 90% of the success comes down to the car setup and my car was working perfectly today. Having experience with oval racing also helped give me the upper hand over Daniel and other drivers that might not have that experience. In the closing laps my spotter was giving me the gap over the radio and while he was closing in at the end I was able to manage the gap to the finish."
Herrington had his hands full chasing down Potekhen, the Winston-Salem, North Carolina resident working his way from seventh on the grid, passing Pecorari for third place on lap 39 and getting past pole position winner Adrian Carrio for second place nine laps later. "My car was working really well today and we were closing on Michael in the final laps but I'm not sure if I could've got around him," Herrington explained. "My car was a little loose throughout the session but it was also fast and the caution flags also helped us close the gap a couple of times as I worked through the field."
Finishing on the podium was a perfect ending for Pecorari, a last minute replacement when regular driver Ross Smith fell ill, who was able to slip past Carrio on the final lap to take the last podium spot. "It looked like Adrian got held up by lap traffic coming out of turn two on the final lap and I made an all or nothing move to the inside as we came to turn three and was able to make it onto the podium," Pecorari said. "I have to thank the Smith family, Maxwell Paper Products and John Walko Racing for giving me the opportunity to come here this weekend and step in when Ross couldn't make it, what better way to say thanks than a podium finish."
With a quarter of the season complete Herrington maintains his place on top of the championship with 153 points. Carrio, who finished fourth on the day, holds onto second place with 145 points and Potekhen slips into sole possession of third place with 142 points.
In the Expert Championship, for drivers aged 30-44, Gerardo Bonilla captured the class victory in his #9 Carmela Sausages Andersen Racing Team Mazda and holds first place with 71 points. Brian Thienes finished second on track and holds second place with 58 points and Dan Tomlin III sits third with 54 points. In the Masters Championship, for drivers aged 45 and older, Ken Losch, driving the #52 Apex Racing Centerpoint Communities Mazda was the class winner finishing sixth overall, and moves into first place with 63 points. John Pew falls to second place with 60 points and Doug Peterson holds onto third with 53 points.
In the Team Championship AIM Autosport remains in first with 77 points while World Speed Motorsports is second with 74 points. Apex Racing makes a huge leap in the points, rising from seventh to third with 71 points overall.
The series now heads north to Canada to take part in the Formula One Grand Prix of Canada weekend at the Gilles Villeneuve Circuit in Montreal for Round Five of the Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear on June 23-24. Round Four from the Milwaukee is scheduled to air at 1:00 PM Eastern Time on Sunday, June 18th. For more information please visit www.starmazda.com.
MIS: 10 DAYS REMAINING UNTIL THE START OF THE 3M PERFORMANCE 400 RACE WEEKEND
BROOKLYN, Mich. (June 7, 2006) – Only 10 days remain until the start of the 2006 race season at Michigan International Speedway.
Tickets are still available for the 3M Performance 400 presented by Post-it® Picture Paper on Sunday, June 18, along with all events at MIS during Father’s Day weekend, including the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Con-way Freight 200 on Saturday, June 17 and the ARCA RE/MAX Series Hantz Group 200 on Friday, June 16.
Fans can purchase tickets by logging on to http://www.mispeedway.com/, or by calling the MIS ticket hotline at 1-800-354-1010. The MIS ticket hotline is open from 9:00 A.M. – 9:00 P.M. seven days a week.
As we count down the days, here are 10 facts, one for each day, as the beginning of the MIS race season quickly approaches.
FACT #10: In six starts at MIS, Carl Edwards has never finished out of the top 10. Last year, he finished fifth and fourth, respectively, in the June and August NASCAR NEXTEL Cup races, and also had a third-place finish in the NASCAR Busch Series. Edwards finished 10th at MIS in the first NEXTEL Cup start of his career in August 2004 and also has two top-10’s in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series to his credit.
Tickets for both NEXTEL Cup Series races at MIS, the June 18 3M Performance 400 presented by Post-it® Picture Paper and the August 20 GFS Marketplace 400, are currently on sale at MIS’s official website, http://www.mispeedway.com/, or by calling the MIS ticket hotline at 1-800-354-1010. Tickets to all other events, which include the IRL IndyCar Series, the ARCA RE/MAX Series, the NASCAR Busch Series, and the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, are also now available.
For tickets and information regarding events at MIS, log on to http://www.mispeedway.com/, or call the MIS ticket hotline at 1-800-354-1010.
Tickets are still available for the 3M Performance 400 presented by Post-it® Picture Paper on Sunday, June 18, along with all events at MIS during Father’s Day weekend, including the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Con-way Freight 200 on Saturday, June 17 and the ARCA RE/MAX Series Hantz Group 200 on Friday, June 16.
Fans can purchase tickets by logging on to http://www.mispeedway.com/, or by calling the MIS ticket hotline at 1-800-354-1010. The MIS ticket hotline is open from 9:00 A.M. – 9:00 P.M. seven days a week.
As we count down the days, here are 10 facts, one for each day, as the beginning of the MIS race season quickly approaches.
FACT #10: In six starts at MIS, Carl Edwards has never finished out of the top 10. Last year, he finished fifth and fourth, respectively, in the June and August NASCAR NEXTEL Cup races, and also had a third-place finish in the NASCAR Busch Series. Edwards finished 10th at MIS in the first NEXTEL Cup start of his career in August 2004 and also has two top-10’s in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series to his credit.
Tickets for both NEXTEL Cup Series races at MIS, the June 18 3M Performance 400 presented by Post-it® Picture Paper and the August 20 GFS Marketplace 400, are currently on sale at MIS’s official website, http://www.mispeedway.com/, or by calling the MIS ticket hotline at 1-800-354-1010. Tickets to all other events, which include the IRL IndyCar Series, the ARCA RE/MAX Series, the NASCAR Busch Series, and the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, are also now available.
For tickets and information regarding events at MIS, log on to http://www.mispeedway.com/, or call the MIS ticket hotline at 1-800-354-1010.
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Hmmmmmmmmm......
I have yet to see an official announcement that CASCAR is confirmed at the Indy Montreal, but the new go-racing.ca website invites you to make a room reservation for the "Montreal Event" by sending an e-mail to cascar@go-racing.ca
Kalamazoo Rained Out; Homecoming At Delaware Part of Doubleheader Weekend Next For Ryan Litt
Mother Nature struck once again this past Saturday night at the Kalamazoo Speedway in Western Michigan as the Auto Value/Bumper to Bumper Super Sprints event was rained out. The rain can’t put a damper on Ryan Litt’s spirits however as the 19 year old is excited about the next event on the AVSS schedule – his home race at the Delaware Speedway, just 30 miles from his home in Lyons, Ontario, Canada on Friday, June 9th. The event will be the only visit by the AVSS tour to Canada this season and Ryan and the #07 BS&B Radiator/OTC-SPX Tools team are excited to be performing in front of their home fans, family, and friends.
Delaware is a special place for Ryan for another reason besides being his home track. The ½ mile paved oval was the site of his very first event behind the wheel of a winged sprint car last May. Ryan was 16th fastest in time trials that night, finished 3rd in his heat after leading briefly, and finished 14th in the feature after a late race spin took him out of contention for a top 10 finish – Not too bad for a rookie. With more winged races under his belt since then and some test laps at Delaware this spring, Ryan is quite confident that he will be able to improve on last year’s results.
There will be no rest for the drivers and teams of the AVSS as the tour gets back into action the night after Delaware at the Auto City Speedway near Flint, Michigan on Saturday night, June 10th. Auto City is the only track that has staged an AVSS event this season so far without interference from Mother Nature. The AVSS season opener took place at Auto City on May 6th and Ryan brought the #07 home in the 10th position that evening after struggling to get a handle on the quirky 7/16’s mile oval for most of the night. Ryan and the team are looking forward to getting back to Auto City now that they have figured out the odd-shaped track.
For Canadian fans interested in “doing the double” with Ryan and the team this weekend, the Auto City Speedway is located slightly North of Flint, Michigan, just 80 miles West of the Blue Water Bridge border crossing at Sarnia/Port Huron. Other than Delaware, Auto City is the closest AVSS venue to the #07 team’s headquarters near London, Ontario. The AVSS will visit Auto City once more this season, on July 15th.
-- From Litt Racing P.R. // By Tommy Goudge
Delaware is a special place for Ryan for another reason besides being his home track. The ½ mile paved oval was the site of his very first event behind the wheel of a winged sprint car last May. Ryan was 16th fastest in time trials that night, finished 3rd in his heat after leading briefly, and finished 14th in the feature after a late race spin took him out of contention for a top 10 finish – Not too bad for a rookie. With more winged races under his belt since then and some test laps at Delaware this spring, Ryan is quite confident that he will be able to improve on last year’s results.
There will be no rest for the drivers and teams of the AVSS as the tour gets back into action the night after Delaware at the Auto City Speedway near Flint, Michigan on Saturday night, June 10th. Auto City is the only track that has staged an AVSS event this season so far without interference from Mother Nature. The AVSS season opener took place at Auto City on May 6th and Ryan brought the #07 home in the 10th position that evening after struggling to get a handle on the quirky 7/16’s mile oval for most of the night. Ryan and the team are looking forward to getting back to Auto City now that they have figured out the odd-shaped track.
For Canadian fans interested in “doing the double” with Ryan and the team this weekend, the Auto City Speedway is located slightly North of Flint, Michigan, just 80 miles West of the Blue Water Bridge border crossing at Sarnia/Port Huron. Other than Delaware, Auto City is the closest AVSS venue to the #07 team’s headquarters near London, Ontario. The AVSS will visit Auto City once more this season, on July 15th.
-- From Litt Racing P.R. // By Tommy Goudge
RACELINE: FAN IN CALGARY, FAN IN TORONTO "REAL COOL" FOR RACELINE RADIO!
Burlington Ontario: RACELINE RADIO, Canada’s only nationally syndicated motorsport magazine radio show is delighted to announce a new affiliate home in Calgary Alberta, The FAN 960 owned and operated by Rogers Broadcasting Limited.
RACELINE RADIO will air on The FAN 960 Sunday nights at 11:06 PM Mountain time starting June 11th, with award-winning auto racing coverage for a very large and loyal fan base in Calgary, centered around Race City Speedway. The sported is rooted in a rich history in both dirt and asphalt stock car and sprint car racing, road racing, drag racing, bikes and road rallying, plus national and international interest in NASCAR Nextel Cup, Formula One, ChampCar and more.
“Auto racing has always had a big vocal following in this market, and now with The ChampCars just up the road in Edmonton, and NASCAR’s arrival in Canada, Raceline Radio’s experience in covering the sport at all levels with regular all-star guests from these series made it a natural add to The FAN 960’s line up.” commented FAN 960 Program Director Kelly Kirch.
“We were with the Calgary racing fans up close during our Raceline Motorsport Television/TSN years, so we know how important this sport is in this market. When I lived and worked in radio in The Stampede City, I got involved with the local stock car racing and drag racing programs. The motorsport fans in this city are as enthusiastic as they are anywhere else across the Network! Kelly and The FAN 960 crew understand. This is going to be a fantastic partnership!”, stated RACELINE RADIO Anchor, Writer and Producer Erik Tomas.
“The show is rapidly establishing itself into every major market across Canada, and our national broadcast partners like the sound of that! ET is right on. We know the Calgary racing fans first hand. If they’re not already FAN 960 listeners, they will be now! We’re thrilled to have another “FAN” join the Network. The FAN 590 Toronto, and now The FAN 960 Calgary! The show thrives in the all-sports environment, it couldn’t be better!”, offered RACELINE RADIO NETWORK Executive Producer John Massingberd.
Flagshipped from AM 900 CHML Hamilton, RACELINE RADIO is also heard via live and delayed broadcasts in Toronto, Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, Winnipeg, Montreal, Fredericton, Halifax, Moncton, Saint John, Windsor, London, Kitchener, Sarnia, Sudbury, Niagara Falls, Peterborough, Truro, New Maryland and Oromocto.
A consistent winner of major international broadcast journalism awards, Raceline Radio’s broadcast partners include: Subaru Canada, Texaco-Havoline, Tissot Watches and Inside Track Motorsport News.
For more information: Erik Tomas: 905-332-7223 Ext 3. erik@raceline.ca
RACELINE RADIO will air on The FAN 960 Sunday nights at 11:06 PM Mountain time starting June 11th, with award-winning auto racing coverage for a very large and loyal fan base in Calgary, centered around Race City Speedway. The sported is rooted in a rich history in both dirt and asphalt stock car and sprint car racing, road racing, drag racing, bikes and road rallying, plus national and international interest in NASCAR Nextel Cup, Formula One, ChampCar and more.
“Auto racing has always had a big vocal following in this market, and now with The ChampCars just up the road in Edmonton, and NASCAR’s arrival in Canada, Raceline Radio’s experience in covering the sport at all levels with regular all-star guests from these series made it a natural add to The FAN 960’s line up.” commented FAN 960 Program Director Kelly Kirch.
“We were with the Calgary racing fans up close during our Raceline Motorsport Television/TSN years, so we know how important this sport is in this market. When I lived and worked in radio in The Stampede City, I got involved with the local stock car racing and drag racing programs. The motorsport fans in this city are as enthusiastic as they are anywhere else across the Network! Kelly and The FAN 960 crew understand. This is going to be a fantastic partnership!”, stated RACELINE RADIO Anchor, Writer and Producer Erik Tomas.
“The show is rapidly establishing itself into every major market across Canada, and our national broadcast partners like the sound of that! ET is right on. We know the Calgary racing fans first hand. If they’re not already FAN 960 listeners, they will be now! We’re thrilled to have another “FAN” join the Network. The FAN 590 Toronto, and now The FAN 960 Calgary! The show thrives in the all-sports environment, it couldn’t be better!”, offered RACELINE RADIO NETWORK Executive Producer John Massingberd.
Flagshipped from AM 900 CHML Hamilton, RACELINE RADIO is also heard via live and delayed broadcasts in Toronto, Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, Winnipeg, Montreal, Fredericton, Halifax, Moncton, Saint John, Windsor, London, Kitchener, Sarnia, Sudbury, Niagara Falls, Peterborough, Truro, New Maryland and Oromocto.
A consistent winner of major international broadcast journalism awards, Raceline Radio’s broadcast partners include: Subaru Canada, Texaco-Havoline, Tissot Watches and Inside Track Motorsport News.
For more information: Erik Tomas: 905-332-7223 Ext 3. erik@raceline.ca
Le Nest du Hornet
Pardon my french, but there's a bit of a soap opera brewing in Quebec over the future of racing at Montreal's Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.Normand Legault is the promoter of the F1 race. And again this summer, Alan Labrosse is the promoter of the ChampCar race at the end of August.
The debate centres on who will control the 'second date' in 2007 and beyond. Labrosse contends that he has a new five-year agreement with ChampCar to put on that event. Legault, on the other hand, wants the date so that he can put on the long-rumoured NASCAR Busch Series race.
Legault's camp is floating the notion that F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone is adamant that there be one promoter in charge of any venue that holds an F1 race. The point being that this group would have people think that if Legault doesn't get the coveted 'second date', Montreal's F1 race could be pulled. No one says these guys don't play hardball. The decision rests with the mayor of Montreal.
Looking at how this impacts upon Canadian racing, last week we posted news about the fight between ChampCar and NASCAR over the future of a street race in Phoenix. Last year, Edmonton's ChampCar promoter said he wasn't allowed to invite CASCAR to his race because of a clause in his contract with ChampCar.
With the battle lines being drawn, it appears that Legault, NASCAR (and therefore CASCAR) are on one side, staring across the trench at Labrosse and ChampCar.
CASCAR still has a TBA date in late August on its Super Series schedule; presumably the Montreal ChampCar race. Hopefully, CASCAR will not fall victim to the NASCAR v. ChampCar battle.
CASCAR WEST: Jason White Event #2 Preview
KAMLOOPS, BC – The “ZIMMER WHEATON GMC Racing Team” will be heading east on June 10, 2006 to Sun Valley Speedway in Vernon for the second stop on the CASCAR FLO-PRO.com western series tour. Jason White will be looking to better his 6th place finish from the first outing in May.
The “2005 ROOKIE OF THE YEAR” finished his first ever race on the lead lap, and gave most of the credit to his pit crew. “Racing on the lead lap takes a lot of hard work and determination, I owe a great deal to my team for giving me a car that is competitive and pit stops that were fast and very efficient” says White, “We are focusing all of our energy towards June 10th, to see if we can crack the top five”.
57 year old Marty White, the second half of the Zimmer Wheaton GMC racing team; and also Jason’s father, is looking to bounce back from mechanical problems in the season opener. Fuel problems kept him from finishing in the top ten, were he ran all race until lap 180. Marty, is a former super modified champion (CAMRA-1982), but he had not been behind the wheel of a race car in 12 years, he definitely showed that his talent is natural and he will be giving his sons Jim and Jason a run for there money before to long!!
Look for #21 car of Jason White and the #11 car of Marty White at Sun Valley Speedway on June 10, 2006…..see you at the races!
Special thanks to our sponsors, ZIMMER WHEATON USED CAR SUPERSTORE, DOUGLAS LAKE EQUIPMENT, POWDER VENTURES EXCAVATING, 98.3 CIFM, RE/MAX (PAUL TOPOROWSKI), A&W (CHASE&CACHE CREEK), KAL TIRE (KAMLOOPS), KAMLOOPS DAILY NEWS, LO-COST GAS, LARRY’S AUTO GLASS, L’CAT AUTOGRAPHICS, RTR PERFORMANCE, RPM COMMUNICATIONS, THOMPSON VALLEY SAND & GRAVEL, DIAMOND LILS TRUCKING AND MACKDADDY’S NITE CLUB.
The “2005 ROOKIE OF THE YEAR” finished his first ever race on the lead lap, and gave most of the credit to his pit crew. “Racing on the lead lap takes a lot of hard work and determination, I owe a great deal to my team for giving me a car that is competitive and pit stops that were fast and very efficient” says White, “We are focusing all of our energy towards June 10th, to see if we can crack the top five”.
57 year old Marty White, the second half of the Zimmer Wheaton GMC racing team; and also Jason’s father, is looking to bounce back from mechanical problems in the season opener. Fuel problems kept him from finishing in the top ten, were he ran all race until lap 180. Marty, is a former super modified champion (CAMRA-1982), but he had not been behind the wheel of a race car in 12 years, he definitely showed that his talent is natural and he will be giving his sons Jim and Jason a run for there money before to long!!
Look for #21 car of Jason White and the #11 car of Marty White at Sun Valley Speedway on June 10, 2006…..see you at the races!
Special thanks to our sponsors, ZIMMER WHEATON USED CAR SUPERSTORE, DOUGLAS LAKE EQUIPMENT, POWDER VENTURES EXCAVATING, 98.3 CIFM, RE/MAX (PAUL TOPOROWSKI), A&W (CHASE&CACHE CREEK), KAL TIRE (KAMLOOPS), KAMLOOPS DAILY NEWS, LO-COST GAS, LARRY’S AUTO GLASS, L’CAT AUTOGRAPHICS, RTR PERFORMANCE, RPM COMMUNICATIONS, THOMPSON VALLEY SAND & GRAVEL, DIAMOND LILS TRUCKING AND MACKDADDY’S NITE CLUB.
Southern Ontario Sprints Set to Double Up This Weekend
The Southern Ontario Sprints championship tour roars back into action Friday night as the winged racers fire up for a double header as the 2006 tour continues.
The Styres family owned Ohsweken Speedway will host the Friday night portion of the action. The 3/8 mile clay oval finally got their 11th season underway last week and is ready to treat their fans to some lightning fast sprint car action. Fred Cades Best Western Cairn Croft Hotel located in Niagara Falls will present the SOS as the headline division. With both the ESS and PSG groups idle on Friday night, we should see a large field of cars in attendance at the Big O.
The Home of the Canadian Sprint Car Nationals , Ohsweken will open their pit gates at 5:30 with Hot Laps scheduled for 7:00 PM. Racing will start at 7:45 PM. Spectator gates will open at 6:00 PM.
The following day it will be off to Mark Rinaldi s Brighton Speedway for the second visit of the 2006 Sobey s series on the 1/3 mile. Close racing at Brighton guarantees an action packed program and Saturday s program should not disappoint anyone. Pit Gates will open Saturday at 2:00 with racing slated to begin at 7:30 PM.
With two races complete, the season shows promise to being the most competitive season yet. Winner of the Brighton Speedway SOS opener, Glenn Styres holds a slim nine point lead over second place and defending series champion Adam West.
Bob Crawford, Warren Mahoney, and Tim Phillips round out the top five in the championship chase. Ken Swan and John Riegling hold down positions six and seven while rookies Joe Middlemiss, Kevin Job, and British Columbia s Fred Pigeon round out the top ten.
Be sure to make plans now so you won t miss any of the action as the Winged Warriors with an Attitude travel to a speedway near you.
For all the latest information be sure to check the official website of the Southern Ontario Sprints at http://www.southernontariosprints.com/ .
- From Ken Pelkie, Public Relations, SOS
Monday, June 05, 2006
Drive into the light......
Scientology revs up to join NASCAR circuit. Will Scientologist Tom Cruise find new "Days of Thunder" with NASCAR?
By Jeannette Walls // MSNBC
Don’t be surprised if Tom Cruise becomes a NASCAR fan. Scientology is getting into the wildly popular race sport.
“Dianetics,” the book written by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard, is sponsoring a racing team — dubbed “Ignite Your Potential” — that will tour the NASCAR circuit. A Dianetics Racing Web site is being set up for fans.
Driver Kenton Gray credits Hubbard’s work with making him a good driver. “It’s markedly improved my focus and my consistency,” he said in an announcement from Hubbard’s publisher. “Through ‘Dianetics’ I’ve handled stress and increased my performance and ability to compete—both on the track and in life.”
“Scientology makes a point of recruiting celebrities as a part of its marketing appeal,” says a source. “If this is another marketing appeal — reaching out to the NASCAR crowd — it’s brilliant.”
“We’re not out selling a product,” Grant Cardone, the CEO of Freedom Motorsports, the company behind the car, told The Scoop. But he says, he too, is a fan of “Dianetics,” and if the Ignite Your Potential car helps troubled people, “that would be great.”
WESCAR Kumho Tire OKTIRE Challenge Series // MacCarthy GM 100
TERRACE, BC – In WESCAR OK Tire Challenge Series action on the weekend, Brett Young set fast time with new track record on June 3 at Terrace Speedway, then blew his clutch while leading in the main.
That opened the door for Bob Williams to win the 100 lap main event, ahead of Peter Ernst and Lee Thomas.
Dave Olson won the 15 lap heat race with pressure from behind by Dallas Mayert, Sheldon Mayert and Peter Ernst.
- From Douglas Waller / WESCAR
MERRITTVILLE: RAIN SPOILS OUTDOOR BALL HOCKEY FUN NIGHT
THOROLD, ON – Merrittville Speedway was all set to welcome Ball Hockey International Staff and players for an action-packed night of racing Saturday July 3rd, however persistent daylong rain forced postponement of the event.
Ball Hockey International Players that had tickets for June 3rd can use them either Saturday June 10 or 17th.
“At Ball Hockey … they play rain or shine 12 months of the year,” relates Merrittville GM Erica Bicknell, “ but with racing … we’re extremely sensitive to the weather … Tom had put a lot of work into the night … we look forward to hosting the Poster Contest now scheduled for Saturday June 17th.”
Ball Hockey International with the two locations in St. Catharines and Welland is owned and operated by Tom Roberts and Anthony Pasto. For further information on upcoming Summer leagues visit www.ballhockeyinternational.com.
“Tom is no stranger to Merrittville, “ adds Bicknell, “ he grew up having a summer job at the track before crewing for drivers such as Davey Moore … Jim Begolo and Tim Hatt … now he’s bringing his young son William.”
The Ball Hockey International Poster Contest - now part of the SMS Machine Tools Night June 17th - is being presented in conjunction with Burtnik Printing and is open to three age groups – 6 and Under, 7 to 9 and 10 to 12.
Promotions Plus have provided trophies for the top 3 in each categories.
“Younger race fans can pick up their Poster Sheets during the Kid’s Club Registration Night June 10th,” informs Bicknell, “ during that night’s Autograph Session … they can get a real good look at the race cars up close and let their imaginations go to work after that.”
All 5 divisions of the DIRT Weekly Racing Series will be in action June 10th when the Financial Care Group and the Niagara Lions present the first Autograph Session of the season in addition to registration for the 2006 Edition of the Meridian Credit Union Kids Club.
While the Employee Benefits branch of the Fonthill-based company will be making their first visit to Merrittville – headed by Paul Scott, the Niagara Lions under the guidance of Glen Rolston are no strangers to local Dirt Racing.
Rolston has supported many programs at the Speedway over the years and his generosity extends to the race teams of L. St. Amand Enterprises 358 Modified veteran Scott Wood, Hoosier Stock fan favorite Mike Dooley and the Little Knapp Motorsports fleet of cars that include brothers Rob and Kevin Knapp who have both visited Victory Lane at the New Humberstone Speedway this season in the Trails End Sportsmen and Brian’s Tire Street Stock Divisions respectively.
The team also includes youngster Greg Kohut who is a rookie in the Drummond Home Hardware Original Pizza Logs Novice Division Tuesday Nights at Merrittville. Kohut recently won his first heat.
Race fans will get to meet all of the above mentioned drivers and see their cars up close when the gates open at 5:30 in addition to the Autograph Session later in the evening.
The Meridian Credit Union Kids Club Registrations will take place behind the Grandstands in the Kid’s Club Area opposite the Archer Truck Centers and Modern Landfill Billboards.
For a $25 Membership fee, Kids Club Members receive all kinds of benefits including free grandstand admission, a T Shirt, meetings, contests and lots more.
Also prior to race time, a band will provide entertainment in Dipper’s Turn 1 Bar prior to racing beginning at 7:15 PM.
Glen Rolston will present at Sportsmen Dash for Cash involving Heat Winners June 10th. Feature action to date in the division has been keen with four different drivers earning wins to date. Defending Champion Wayne Conn, Chad Chevalier, Mike Bowman and Fulton Speedway regular Joe Williams have all taken checkered flags in 2006.
Experience Merrittville Speedway on a Saturday Night – it’s the best family entertainment in Niagara.
Adult. Senior and Student price is all $10 while Juniors 8 to 12 years of age are $5 each. Children under 8 are free. A Family Pass for 2 Adults, 2 Juniors, 4 cans of pop and 4 Hot Dogs is $35.
For further information on the 2006 Racing Season call 905-892-8266 or visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com.
Ball Hockey International Players that had tickets for June 3rd can use them either Saturday June 10 or 17th.
“At Ball Hockey … they play rain or shine 12 months of the year,” relates Merrittville GM Erica Bicknell, “ but with racing … we’re extremely sensitive to the weather … Tom had put a lot of work into the night … we look forward to hosting the Poster Contest now scheduled for Saturday June 17th.”
Ball Hockey International with the two locations in St. Catharines and Welland is owned and operated by Tom Roberts and Anthony Pasto. For further information on upcoming Summer leagues visit www.ballhockeyinternational.com.
“Tom is no stranger to Merrittville, “ adds Bicknell, “ he grew up having a summer job at the track before crewing for drivers such as Davey Moore … Jim Begolo and Tim Hatt … now he’s bringing his young son William.”
The Ball Hockey International Poster Contest - now part of the SMS Machine Tools Night June 17th - is being presented in conjunction with Burtnik Printing and is open to three age groups – 6 and Under, 7 to 9 and 10 to 12.
Promotions Plus have provided trophies for the top 3 in each categories.
“Younger race fans can pick up their Poster Sheets during the Kid’s Club Registration Night June 10th,” informs Bicknell, “ during that night’s Autograph Session … they can get a real good look at the race cars up close and let their imaginations go to work after that.”
All 5 divisions of the DIRT Weekly Racing Series will be in action June 10th when the Financial Care Group and the Niagara Lions present the first Autograph Session of the season in addition to registration for the 2006 Edition of the Meridian Credit Union Kids Club.
While the Employee Benefits branch of the Fonthill-based company will be making their first visit to Merrittville – headed by Paul Scott, the Niagara Lions under the guidance of Glen Rolston are no strangers to local Dirt Racing.
Rolston has supported many programs at the Speedway over the years and his generosity extends to the race teams of L. St. Amand Enterprises 358 Modified veteran Scott Wood, Hoosier Stock fan favorite Mike Dooley and the Little Knapp Motorsports fleet of cars that include brothers Rob and Kevin Knapp who have both visited Victory Lane at the New Humberstone Speedway this season in the Trails End Sportsmen and Brian’s Tire Street Stock Divisions respectively.
The team also includes youngster Greg Kohut who is a rookie in the Drummond Home Hardware Original Pizza Logs Novice Division Tuesday Nights at Merrittville. Kohut recently won his first heat.
Race fans will get to meet all of the above mentioned drivers and see their cars up close when the gates open at 5:30 in addition to the Autograph Session later in the evening.
The Meridian Credit Union Kids Club Registrations will take place behind the Grandstands in the Kid’s Club Area opposite the Archer Truck Centers and Modern Landfill Billboards.
For a $25 Membership fee, Kids Club Members receive all kinds of benefits including free grandstand admission, a T Shirt, meetings, contests and lots more.
Also prior to race time, a band will provide entertainment in Dipper’s Turn 1 Bar prior to racing beginning at 7:15 PM.
Glen Rolston will present at Sportsmen Dash for Cash involving Heat Winners June 10th. Feature action to date in the division has been keen with four different drivers earning wins to date. Defending Champion Wayne Conn, Chad Chevalier, Mike Bowman and Fulton Speedway regular Joe Williams have all taken checkered flags in 2006.
Experience Merrittville Speedway on a Saturday Night – it’s the best family entertainment in Niagara.
Adult. Senior and Student price is all $10 while Juniors 8 to 12 years of age are $5 each. Children under 8 are free. A Family Pass for 2 Adults, 2 Juniors, 4 cans of pop and 4 Hot Dogs is $35.
For further information on the 2006 Racing Season call 905-892-8266 or visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com.
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