2008 ORKC Senior Honda Champion, Keenan Harris, signs with BGR-TLM – Team Grote

From Brian Graham Racing/TLM Racing

Canadian-based Brian Graham Racing/TLM Racing - Team Grote have announced the signing of Keenan Harris to contest the 2009 F1200 Championship Series.

Harris, a 17 year-old Bolton Ontario native, and grade 12 student at Humberview Secondary School will pilot one of the team’s multi-car entries this season. Harris comes to BGR-TLM with a very impressive Karting background winning 6 championships in 9 years in various Karting series during his development. In 2006, Harris landed 2nd by mere tenths of seconds at the Canada Junior Canadian National Karting championships in Edmonton, Alberta.

"Keenan is definitely a different type of personality than we have seen in the past versus the many young up and coming Karters who have made the jump into open wheel," stated Dave Matkovich, Director of Driver Development for TLM racing. "Keenan is very quite, very reserved, and unlike many of our previous rookie drivers, is not as animated or boisterous, he is very focused, calm and collected, which is exactly the kind of character traits that lead to a very fast learning curve heading into the 2009 F1200 Championship Series."

Harris tested with TLM in early October of 2008, adapting very quickly to the finicky F1200’s, and as the day progressed, became faster and faster until he had pretty much max’d out the car’s capabilities, ultimately posting very quick lap times at the Mosport DDT.

In effort to create Canada's premier formula car development team, Brian Graham Racing/TLM Racing with Grote was recently formed via partnership of two of the nations leading junior race car teams. The new partnership features a three-tier program for its drivers via the Ontario F1200 Championship, Ontario Formula Ford Challenge and the F2000 Championship Series.

Delaware Speedway practice day photos

Thanks to Joel Robinson for forwarding some shots from practice day at Delaware Speedway on the weekend. Inside Track (Vol. 13.01) cover-boy J.R. Fitzpatrick apparently turned up for some laps in between NASCAR Truck Series outings. Also visible is the start of track upgrades at the London-area track. Delaware recently rejoined the NASCAR fold and will host a NASCAR Canadian Tire Series race on June 6.

Rick Young's 'Rick at the Races' Easter 2009

PIC 1   Brett Hearn # 20 races beside the Mohawk River at the Fonda Speedway NY
PIC 2   # 12 Jumpin Jack Johnson, Fonda legend
PIC 3  Gentlemen Start Your Engines for Fondas 40 lapper
PIC 4  # 00 Bobby Varin lines up beside Brett Hearn # 20 at Fonda
PIC 5  Fonda Speedway announcer Mike Mallett
PIC 6  Fonda veteran Dave Lape # 22
PIC 7  First three in Fondas Ice Jam LtoR third Michael Storms, winner Pat Ward and runner up Bobby Varin.
PIC 8  602 Crate Sportsman winner Jerimiah Munson # 28M

At last, after weeks of attending car shows and banquets I got down to some actual racing this weekend even though, unlike the UK, where I spent most of my life the Easter Weekend in North America has few opportunities to go racing.

(I can remember Easter Weekends in the past with four days of racing, Good Friday, Saturday, Easter Sunday and the Holiday Monday). Over here everything seams to shut down on Easter Sunday but on Saturday I had plenty to choose from. I decided to attend the Big Block Modified 'Ice Jam' at the historic Fonda Speedway in New York.

I was joined on this trip by my www.rickattheraces.com webmaster Craig Revelle and Can Am Speedway photographer Rebecca Eisele.

I left my place in Long Sault, Ontario at 8-00am on Saturday morning and picked up Craig, half an hour later at the 730 Truck Stop at Cardinal (Ont) . As it was a holiday weekend we chose to use the quieter Johnstown/Ogdensburg border crossing in preference to the busier 1000 Islands one.

This decision paid off, even with an over scrupulous customs officer ! and we were soon heading down route 37 in the direction of Theresa/Lafargeville where we had arranged to meet Rebecca. We arrived in Fonda at lunch time, just right for a meal at the All American Truck Stop that's located close to the track on the opposite side of the Mohawk River.

Once fed, we crossed the river bridge to the track that's made famous for it's back straight that runs along the river bank. On the bridge we noticed someone taking photos, it was fellow racing photographer Jerimiah Fish taking panoramic shots of the track. We met up with him later.

Racing was due to start at 4-00pm so we had plenty of time to 'tailgate' and 'talk racing' with other fans before the start. We bumped into many people including track announcer Mike Mallett. Being a season opener with very little else happening over the weekend there was a large turnout of cars and fans. On my pit walk about the car that really caught my attention was the Dover Brake sponsored # 00 of Bobby Varin. It just brought back memories of the Buzzy Reuteman cars that used to bare the same livery.

Sharing the program with the Big Block Mods were the 602 Crate Sportsman division ( best described as low budget Sportsman). Their feature was won by # 28M Jerimiah Munson.

The Modified heats all ran with few cautions and it was Craig Hanson # 20C who lined up on inside pole for the 40 lap Feature. Pat Ward # 42P was on the outside front. At the drop of the green flag Ward charged into a commanding lead which he held to the checkers. Varin who started near the back managed to work his way to second, and maybe with a few more laps could have been in a position to challenge.

Even if the race wasn't the 'most exciting' I've seen, it was great to be back at Fonda. The place is just steeped in history and you can't help love the place. It's a great shame it's no longer DIRTCAR sanctioned and misses out on all the SUPER DIRT SERIES races.

The show was ran in a very proficient way and was all over at a nice sensible time of 6-30pm. After taking 'Victory Lane' shots we were soon on our way and heading North. After a stopping for supper at the Mexico exit on I81 it wasn't long before we were bidding our farewells to Rebecca at Lafargeville.

Even though it was late at night, the 1000 Island border crossing could still be busy, so once again we cut across country to the Ogdensburg alternative. Like on the journey down, it payed off, there was no line up and I was back home soon after midnight.

Stars of Karting: Canadian Mike Vincec March Wrap-Up

Mike Vincec starts 2009 season with a podium in Stars Disappointment in Skip Barber Series

Stouffville, Ontario (April 11, 2009) - Cameron Motorsports lead driver seventeen year old Mike Vincec started the season in defense of his 2008 championship in the Stars Of Karting series in fine form. He would earn pole and record strong heat races on his way to a second-place finish in the final. A good start to the 2009 championship run. Two weeks later at Sebring, Mike would not fare as well in the opening round of the Skip Barber National series.

At the Stars of Karting event in Ocala, Mike came out of the gate with a championship repeat in mind. He and tuner Trevor Wickens had the Cameron Motorsports CRG running in top form through opening practice and Mike would need just five laps to secure the pole by .077 seconds. Stars of Karting runs three heat races to set the starting grid for the pre-final and Mike would come home second in the first two but a mechanical issue took him out of heat three. This set him fourth on the grid. Mike would battle for the lead making his move from second when going through the hairpin neither of the two drivers would give way and made contact. Mike recovered after the incident to finish fourth in the pre-final.

Setting up on the outside of row two for the twenty-five lap final, the Stouffville, Ontario teen was in a tight battle for position throughout the race. He would make it to second place and once again, set the fastest laps of the race. Mike ended the day on the second step of the podium. With points awarded for both the pre-final and final, Vincec sits first overall in the championship chase after one round.

The next round of the Stars of Karting Championship is the East Division event at New Castle Motorsports Park in New Castle, Indiana, June 29-31.

Following Ocala, Mike made his way to Sebring Florida for the first round of the Skip Barber National Series. This series features Mazda-powered open-wheel formula cars and is considered the next step up the racing ladder for those coming out of karting. Mike was awarded a scholarship to compete in this series based on his 2008 Stars of Karting Championship.

Mike was already familiar with the cars having competed in a regional series in 2008 and the weekend started off well through practice. It all came apart in qualifying however when two cars would spin in front of Mike. With contact and his car badly damaged, Mike could not continue the session and had as yet, not recorded a complete hot lap. This would put him at the back of the twenty-three car starting grid for race one.

"It is not the best way to start your season, especially when the official report shows you were an innocent victim when two guys would just not give each other any room." commented Vincec. "I now had to move to another car and basically start over and fight my way from the back of the field. We'll do the best we can and go for points. It is after all, only the first race of the season."

Mike would work his way to eighteenth in the opening race, felt good about the car and liked his chances in round two qualifying. Unfortunately for him, qualifying for race two was cancelled due to a heavy fog that rolled over the track just as the cars were going out. Series officials then decided to use round one qualifying results to set the grid for race two, thereby putting Mike at the rear of the pack again. He would finish the race in fifteenth.

"Even though I had a good car today, it is extremely tough to fight your way forward from the back of the field. I am really disappointed but will just have to focus my efforts on the next event."

The next round of the Skip Barber National Series takes place April 24 to 26 at Virginia International Raceway in Alton, Virginia.

Photo: Vincec at Sebring, 2009 // Credit: Kevin Hinton/KB Photography
From Chris Jameson // Level Ten Communications

NASCAR Canadian Tire Series: Beauchamp Motorsports & Mopar renew partnership

WINDSOR, ON - Beauchamp Motorsports is pleased to announce that they will be returning to the race track in 2009 with the familiar Team Mopar colours.  A new multi year sponsorship agreement has been signed and will continue the long time association with Mopar along with associate sponsors Mobil 1 and Exide on the #60 Dodge Avenger. 

The affiliation between Beauchamp motorsports and Mopar, Mobil 1 and Exide is one of longest running arrangements in Canadian motor sports and everyone at Beauchamp Motorsports couldn’t be happier to continue the partnership.  “The support we have received over the years from everyone involved has been tremendous,” said Ron Beauchamp Sr. the owner of Beauchamp Motorsports and the #60 Dodge.  “Our program has grown tremendously with the support of Mopar Parts, Mobil 1, and Exide” he added.    

Once again this season the #60 Mopar Parts Dodge will have Ron Beauchamp Jr. behind the wheel to compete in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series and the younger Beauchamp is equally excited to continue with this premier group of supporters.  “We could not have achieved the successes over the years without the great support from Mopar, Exide, and Mobil 1” said Ron Jr.  “We’ve become part of their company families and they are part of ours.  Whenever we make an appearance at a company function or event you can see how proud everyone is of what we do together.”

Preparations for the 2009 NASCAR Canadian Tire series campaign began last fall and the anticipation of the first on track activity for this year is obvious.  “As soon as we can get our car onto the track for a shake down we’re going to really find out where we are, but we think we’re pretty good,” said the driver.  “With our great end to the 2008 season the whole team has been really motivated this winter and worked very hard to get everything ready for the new season.  Chris Couvillion came back to the team last year in mid season and we just clicked.  I can tell him what the car is doing and he makes the right adjustment to give me what I need on the track.  That’s why we had such a strong finish to last season with two podium finishes in the last two races.” 

The 2009 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series racing season opens at the Autodrome St. Eustache on Saturday May 23rd.  Team Mopar will participate in all thirteen events that take place on ovals, road courses and temporary street circuits.  You can follow the action all year long with the television broadcasts on TSN.  For more information about Team Mopar and Ron Beauchamp Jr. at www.beauchampmotorsports.com and www.nascar.ca.

Attached photo caption:  Ron Beauchamp Jr. on track at Mosport last season in the #60 Mopar Parts Dodge

From TL Sports & Entertainment

CSRA: Team Royal Bourque Polaris Sweeps Season Championships!

Royal Distributing-Bourque Polaris Race Report – Season Wrap up

After having dominated the CSRA for the entire season, the Royal team of Dave Joanis and Lee Butler went into the final weekend ready to get down to business, yet the mood surrounding the team was light. Everyone was excited to be at the Craighurst resort and try and collect some hardware yet again.

The National series points going into the weekend heavily favoured Butler, who had amassed a solid lead that would require only starts in each moto and final to be assured the win in both Pro Stock and Pro Open classes.   Dave Joanis held onto third in the points in Pro Stock behind defending champ Mike Vandolder, and in Pro Open Joanis was in 3rd behind top Ski Doo rider Royal’s own Joey Sagan. 

After the heats had shaken out in Saturdays action, Butler had all but clinched the titles with wins and podiums in each of his heats.  Joanis rode well beyond his 17 years to put himself in position to finish second behind his teammate in both title hunts. 

   In the Pro Stock final it was all 17 year old Joanis, who led flag to flag to clinch the #2 plate for Polaris.  Butler turned a 4th place start into a solid second place behind his teammate as the Bourque Polaris’s sat one-two on the box in the race and in the final National Points. 

   The Pro Open final was much anticipated by the record crowd on hand to bask in the bright sunshine.  With Lee Butler having clinched the title with just a green flag, everyone looked to the storylines of second thru fifth place in the points.  Joanis and Joey Sagan sat tied with 418 points, followed by former X games champ Mike Island with 417, and defending champion Vandolder close behind at 415.  The storyline thickened as the ISOC based factory Yamaha’s of Iain Hayden and Steve Taylor lined up for the long climb up the Horseshoe Valley hill. 

All year long in the ISOC circuit, the 4 stroke Yamaha’s got strong starts and pulled hard up the ski hills.   After the first corner all the players were at the front, as Taylor followed Hayden up the hill.  Close behind were the Polaris’s of Joanis and Butler, followed by Sagan’s Skidoo and the Skidoo’s of Island and Vandolder.  Butler used smart lines to catch and pass Joanis, and then turned on the power to pass the Yamaha of Taylor.   The gap to Hayden was too much to overcome as the space between Hayden and Butler would remain the same, with both riders opening up a lead on the field.  Joanis would pass Taylor before the end of the final to secure the #2 plate with a third place finish behind his teammate Butler in second.

Season Wrap up

In the four championships the team contended for, they were a perfect 1-2 in all with Butler winning the National #1 plate in Pro Stock and Pro Open, and in the Regional CSRA championship.  Joanis finished second in all four championships in his rookie season as a Pro. The entire team deserves the credit for all the long hours in preparation and testing, and the countless hours spent by Lee and Dave in the gym training and riding moto after moto of practice and training.   Royal Distributing and Bourque Polaris would like to thank Lee Butler and Dave Joanis for an amazing season on and off the track as awesome representatives of both the team and sponsors. 

Rick Igercich, and Zeek Klassen for all the hours in the shop, trailer and trackside, preparing and rechecking every part and piece on the machines.  Gerry Bourque for keeping everything flowing smoothly and making sure the team had everything they needed to compete week to week.  Special thanks to Wayne Legge, for all the untold hours assembling engines, testing and retesting clutching and engine specs to ensure the sleds worked flawlessly on track, and motivating the athletes trackside race to race.

A quick rundown of what the team has accomplished this season:

Round 1  Studboy Pro Snowcross Sault Ste Marie
Pro Stock 
Lee Butler 1st
Dave Joanis 7th
Pro Open Mod
Lee Butler  1st
Dave Joanis 7th
Round 2 Tim Horton’s Georgian Cup - Owen Sound
Pro Stock
Lee Butler 1st
Dave Joanis 2nd
Pro Open Mod
Dave Joanis 1st
Lee Butler 2nd
Round 3 Amsoil Kawartha Cup 1 - Lindsay
Pro Stock
Dave Joanis 1st
Lee Butler 4th
Pro Open
Lee Butler 4th
Dave Joanis 9th
Round 4 Royal Distributing Pro Cup – Innisfil
Pro Stock
Lee Butler 1st
Dave Joanis 3rd
Pro Open
Lee Butler 1st
Dave Joanis 2nd
Round 5 Amsoil Kawartha Cup 2 – Peterborough
Pro Stock
Lee Butler 1st
Dave Joanis 2nd
Pro Open Mod
Lee Butler 1st
Dave Joanis 2nd
Round 6 Northern Tel Mobility Snowcross – Kirkland Lake
Pro Stock
Lee Butler 1st
Dave Joanis 6th
Pro Open Mod
Lee Butler 1st
Dave Joanis 10th
Round 7 North Bay Pro Snowcross – North Bay
Pro Stock
Lee Butler 1st
Dave Joanis 2nd
Pro Open Mod
Dave Joanis 1st
Lee Butler 2nd
Round 8 Ryde FX Pro Snowcross – Kitchener
Event Cancelled – Weather conditions
Round 9 Dayco National Snowcross Championships
Pro Stock
Dave Joanis 1st
Lee Butler 2nd
Pro Open Mod
Lee Butler 2nd
Dave Joanis 3rd

Royal Distributing Bourque Polaris’s placed on the podium 25 of 32 times they entered a final; with 14 of a possible 16 wins - and 8 times (50% of the finals)  the team crossed the line in first and second together!

Action Photos courtesy of Gary at Supernova Photo

A Very Special Thanks to our Sponsors: Polaris Racing, Walker Evans Shocks, Stud Boy, FXR Clothing, Kimpex, Ipone Oils, HMK, Oakley, OSM Magazine, Rox, Dayco, Fly, Camoplast, TekVest, Renton Coil Springs, C&A Skis, Jaws Perfomance and Digatron.

From Mark Fries / Royal Distributing

DELAWARE SPEEDWAY OFFICIALLY BEGINS FIRST PHASE OF RENOVATIONS

DELAWARE, ON - The historic and exciting words fans and racers have long been waiting to hear are now official: the first phase of facility renovations are currently underway at Delaware Speedway.

Earlier this month groups of contractors descended on Delaware Speedway to begin their work overhauling and improving many areas at the facility.

“We’re making a statement with these improvements,” said owner Arlen Scherba, “It’s not going to be the same old, same old at Delaware Speedway.  We’re committed to making this facility the best track in Canada, and these plans are a reflection of how seriously we take that mission.”

Many of the plans are aimed at “speedway modernization”, a process designed to bring Delaware Speedway to the forefront in technology for racing facilities.  These include impressive changes to the speedway ticket system and concession food ordering.  Modernization also means electronic timing and scoring systems and a sophisticated new computer network to go along with it.  The new programs will also see great change in the number of debit card and credit card terminals available to customers.

The plan also sees repairs to the historic half-mile.  For the first time in decades, sections of the asphalt racing surface are being torn up and replaced.  The plan also calls for large improvements to pit road.

Track management have been working overtime overseeing and implementing the renovation plans.  The pace of change is rapid, but management feels they will be ready for the fans.

“There may be a few ‘under construction’ signs around the track for the first part of the season,” said Operations Manager Paul Houghton.  “But once the fans see what we’ve been working on, they’ll be very pleased and excited.  On behalf of the track I would also like to extend a thanks to all the fans, racers and sponsors who have supported the track over the years.  These plans will be a great value for everyone to enjoy for years to come.  These projects are about bringing the Delaware Speedway experience to new levels.”

The improvements to the track are ongoing and will continue throughout the 2009 season.

Here is what is set to be phased in during 2009:

- The newest and finest modernized ticketing system.  The new system will not only improve service at the track, but also allow fans to purchase tickets for races online in advance.  The Delaware Speedway box office will operate 24/7!  Delaware Speedway is slated to be the first track in Canada to offer advanced, online tickets for all events.

- Top of the line timing and scoring technology has been purchased from AMB Identification and Timing.  The technology is expected to improve the already high quality of scoring at the track, improve broadcast coverage of the events, and provide teams with new tools to analyze their on track performance.  An improved speedway computer network is planned that will allow crews unprecedented access to the new system, a first at a Canadian oval track.

- On the spectator side two new concession booths will be installed. A second spectator entrance for season pass holders and VIP guests is also planned.

- The beer patio area will be receiving a number of exciting improvements, including new patio heaters that will be used on some of the cooler nights.  The patio will also receive an updated look and feel with tableside servers and new patio furniture.

- Food Services at the track will be using a new computer ordering system aimed at improving the speed food can be delivered throughout the facility to fans and VIP areas.  Moreover, a new food supplier has been brought in and the menu has received a complete overhaul to ensure that the food at Delaware Speedway will be the best around.

- The ladies washroom is receiving a complete overhaul.  New walls, new paint, and new lighting highlight the improvements.

- The Delaware Speedway VIP lounge is being heavily renovated to include a revamped interior with granite counter tops, televisions as well as a new bar area.  This section will also include a private restroom.

- An updated grandstand sound system of the highest quality is also being developed.  The system is being designed to improve the quality, coverage and consistency of sound throughout the grandstand.

- Sections of the asphalt racing surface are scheduled to be replaced.  L82 Construction of London has been contracted to complete repairs.  Turn three will be repaired along with turn four through to the start/finish line.  N-J Spivak Concrete has been contracted to supply the concrete for replacing pit road which is being totally redone in new concrete.  These updates will take place early in the racing season, weather permitting.

Racers will soon be at the track gearing up for the racing season.  April 11 and April 18 beginning at 11:00 AM are practice days at the track.  Admission is free for spectators who wish to come out and take in the excitement.  Access to stands and washrooms may be restricted due to renovations.

The 2009 racing season officially opens on April 25 with the running of a Transmission Direct Enduro and Ultimate Sandblasting & Coating Chaos Cars event.  The following week, Friday, May 1 is opening night for the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series Weekly Divisions held in support of Jesse’s Journey.

2009 season passes are still available for order - - for just $315 race fans can take in all the weekly action at Delaware Speedway this season along with special events that include the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, ISMA Super Modified Double Header, Auto-Value Super Sprints and Lucas Oil Canadian Vintage Modifieds.  Fans can contact the speedway office for ordering information (519) 652-5068 ext 202.

VIP Corporate Hospitality is also available this season.  To learn more about getting your company involved contact Kevin Bulmer at CPT Entertainment (Official Sales & Marketing Partner of Delaware Speedway) at (519) 280-8301.

DELAWARE SPEEDWAY is a NASCAR sanctioned, half-mile paved oval stock-car track, located just west of London, Ontario, Canada. For more than 55 years, Delaware Speedway has been the home to some of the finest stock car racing in Canada. Its unique natural amphitheatre-like setting allows a family or group of friends to enjoy an exciting, comfortable and affordable evening of entertainment.  Delaware Speedway is the oldest continuously operating asphalt racetrack in Canada.

By John Houghton

STAR MAZDA: David Ostella had a trying debut weekend in Sebring

When David Ostella headed to Sebring International Raceway for the first event of the 2009 Star Mazda Championship he’d had just one test session in a Star Mazda race car. After four days at the track and with the field headed to qualifying - he’d had just one additional session in a Star Mazda race car! Such was the adventure the young Canadian from Maple, Ontario, endured at the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring recently.

“I was a little upset and nervous since qualifying was going to be my third session on track,” he said in recalling his trials, “but the AIM Autosport team got everything together and we pulled it off in qualifying to be in the top 15.” From there came flashes of brilliance when Ostella charged through the field, but first, the road to the grid.

The Star Mazda field had a pair of sessions on Monday but Ostella was on the sidelines during both. In the first, gearbox problems led him right back to the pitlane after one lap, and when the AIM Autosport team went to work preparing for the afternoon run a car fire brought an end to the day.

Tuesday at Sebring brought the same schedule, and the seventeen-year-old finally turned his first laps of the week in the morning. Things looked promising as Ostella timed eighth in the field of twenty-eight, but trouble returned in the afternoon when gearbox issues led to problems in the cockpit during downshift. Ostella put in laps nonetheless, and once again timed eighth best.

Wednesday brought the first Official Session of the Star Mazda season and unfortunately Ostella was once again relegated to pitlane after just one lap as his car was stuck in second gear. The session was lost, which meant the day was lost with it being the only session on the schedule for Star Mazda.

Thursday morning brought another, but once again Ostella was sidelined with gearbox issues and did not post a time. From the six scheduled, he had been able to participate fully in just one, two days earlier, and now the field was headed to the aforementioned qualifying session where Ostella posted P15. It lead to the inside of row eight, and both team and driver were hopeful headed to race action.

“I had an amazing standing start and was doing great,” Ostella said of the early race action, and as always, he left things a little understated. After already taking two spots from his grid position and the start/finish line, he then grabbed three more over the first lap to cross eighth through one. He took another on lap two, and another pair on three to sit fifth through three of twenty race laps. He then held station through five, and had a fantastic first quarter under his belt when his fortunes once again turned downward.

“I was up to fifth with my engineer Keith Willis on the radio helping me out,” Ostella recalled of his first race action of the season. “Then on lap seven the front sway bar broke and it led to a spin in turn 17. The vacuum hose came off, and from that point forward I just had no power. I just cruised around to the finish. I have to thank everyone under the AIM Autosport tent for their hard work and tireless effort leading up to the race though,” he concluded.

“We were dealt a difficult hand in Sebring, yet with little amount of time on the track we were up in the front of the field. I also have to thank my sponsors Global Precast for their endless support, along with RAW Integrated Ltd. and Alpinestars. If every team is going to have one trying weekend, we can now head to Virginia and the rest of the schedule knowing ours is out of the way!”

The Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear will contest race two at Virginia International Raceway on April 26th. For more information on the championship visit http://www.starmazda.com/. For more information on David Ostella and his team, visit http://www.davidostella.com/ and http://www.aimautosport.com/.

Photo credit: http://www.otp.ca/

Cornwall Motor Speedway celebrates its champs

Sunday, April 5, 2009 - The Cornwall Motor Speedway celebrated his 2008 champions last night at the Ramada Inn Hotel in Cornwall. The dirt track racing community was present to commemorate the winning drivers.

In the modifieds category, Carey Terrance was name the champion, his first title in his career in front of Kyle Dingwall, Laurent Ladouceur, Joel Doiron, Stéphane Lafrance, Mark Hitchcock and Delbert Legrow. Mitchell Jock won the rookie of the year honours. The Doiron Engineering Cup series podium was also celebrated with Laurent Ladouceur in first followed by Kyle Dingwall and Carey Terrance.

Joey Ladouceur was declared the champion in the very competitive Pro-Stock class, he won the coveted championship in front of Louie Jackson, Gilles Godard, PJ and Allen Peters and Rock Aubin rounded out the top 6. Corey Wheeler received the top rookie award. The Mohawk Racing Parts Pro-Stock Series winners were also named; Gilles Godard was the series champion in front of Ghislain Valade and PJ Peters.

In the Semi-Pro, Marc Lalonde received the top honours for a second year in a row. He announced that he is moving up to the Pro-Stock category for 2009. Sébastien Bazinet received the rookie of the year title.

Pierre Robidoux who came back to racing in 2008, won his second championship in three years. Eric Brousseau won the rookie title. This category will now be named rookie stock.

Marcel Lamarche who recently left us for a better world, won the Sheldon Legue merit award for his devotion in racing in the Cornwall area. M. Lamarche helped several drivers and put many hours during all the years at the track. His family accepted this honour with great pride.

The officials unveiled the major events of the 2009 season, it is starting with a bang with the first series race of the Lucas Oil Canadian DIRT Challenge on May 17, on June 14, it will be the Loonie-Toonie night with a $2 admission price. The following week, the World of Outlaws Late Models is back for the Triple Crown Night. The Mr.DIRT Sportsman trail will make a stop at Cornwall on July 5th with a 50-lap feature event along with a series race for the Mohawk Race Parts Pro-Stock Series, which will also be 50 laps.

The big-blocks will be in town on July 12, with a visit of the Patriot Sprint Group the following week. The last race of the Canadian DIRT challenge will be on August 2nd with the winner receiving a cool $5,000 for his win. The fans will be treated with another Late Models race on August 16, with the Ontario DIRT Late Model series in the pits. The Mr.DIRT Pro-Stock series will be at Cornwall on August 23rd with a 50 laps race. The popular Jiffy 150 will take place on September 6 and the last 2 weekends will the annual Fireball Enduro on the 13 and the Terminator along with a 50-lap sportsman feature on the 20th to close out the season.

With the kind of jammed packed action schedule that Cornwall is offering the fans, we can assure that 2009 will be a season to be remembered! We invite you to visit the Cornwall Motor Speedway website at www.cornwallspeedway.com to have all the details for the upcoming season.

By Martin Bélanger / Photos by Rick Young

NASCAR unveils major events for its Touring And Weekly Series

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (April 9, 2009) – The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) announced today that its “stars of tomorrow” and short track veterans will gather in the greater Charlotte area for two special year-end celebrations.

NASCAR will host a special week of activities culminating in the 2009 NASCAR Whelen All-American Series (NWAAS) Awards Banquet on Friday, November 13, and the new NASCAR Night of Champions Touring Awards Gala on Saturday, November 14.

“This is a tremendous opportunity to raise the bar for all of NASCAR’s developmental racing series, by bringing the champions from all of our series to the core of much of the motorsports industry,” said George Silbermann, managing director of racing operations. “In addition to these two prestigious awards banquets, we are planning a number of special activities for our series champions, for attending track operators, and for the industry. We look to take full advantage of what this hub of the stock car racing industry has to offer.”

Both season-end awards banquets will be held in the recently-completed Embassy Suites Hotel Concord Convention Center which is located near the NASCAR Research & Development Center, in proximity to the future NASCAR Hall of Fame complex, as well as the home bases of many of today’s NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, NASCAR Nationwide Series and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series teams.

Moving the banquets to the Charlotte area compliments the commitment the community has made to the business of NASCAR and the development of the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

The NWAAS Awards Banquet will feature weekly racing drivers from top short tracks across the United States and Canada. Invited attendees will include the 2009 NWAAS National Champion, NWAAS State and Provincial Champions, all 58 track champions, the national/ state/provincial Rookies of the Year, the 2009 Wendell Scott Trailblazer Award winner, and many others.

The NASCAR Night of Champions Touring Gala will feature the champions and top drivers from all of NASCAR’s North American regional touring series including invitees from the NASCAR Camping World Series East, the NASCAR Camping World Series West, the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, the NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour, and the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series.

Further details will be released in the coming months.

From Jason Christley, NASCAR Public Relations

Advertiser of the Day - Motive Products

Canadian Motor Speedway in Ft. Erie

Today's Niagara Falls Review included an update on the proposed Canadian Motor Speedway circuit, in Ft. Erie, Ontario.
Apparently, the forums are buzzing with the news that Jeff Gordon is involved, although his participation has been pretty well common knowledge for months.
Below are JPGs from a publication called Professional Motorsport Circuit (inaugural edition / March 2009) with a feature on the track and a full page ad on the back promoting "Canadian Motor Speedway" ... with the tagline "A Jeff Gordon Signature Speedway."

The link to the page with the article is here.

Advertiser of the Day - KRC Power Steering

No skis... no board.... no problem

Edmonton's Warren Currie recently returned to Rabbit Hill with his rally car....
Photos courtesy of Perry Nelson.

MARITIME STOCKS: Lonnie Sommerville Racing Sets 2009 Schedule and Sponsors

SAINT JOHN, NB, - Officials from Lonnie Sommerville Racing are proud to announce their 2009 season schedule. Another championship run in the Carquest Maritime Pro Stock Tour, a national title hunt, plus a heavy balance of races south of the Mason Dixon line highlight the 2009 schedule.

In addition to setting their season schedule Lonnie Sommerville Racing is proud to announce that A.E. McKay Builders will return as primary sponsor while Irving Lubricants will return as an associate sponsor once again. Kent Building Supplies, Pub’s Drive Thru Bottle Exchange, and Select Kitchens will also adorn Sommerville’s black colored Chevys in ’09 on the associate level as part of their inaugural year of sponsorship with the team. Supporting sponsors ARP Bodies, Tex Motorsports Marketing, and Sommerville Flooring will also be onboard with the team.

The team will kick off their 2009 racing season by debuting a newly built Hamke racecar at the Hickory Motor Speedway on April 11th for the first of the four races that make up the ‘09 PASS National Championship series; a tour that Lonnie plans on making a full time run at for a national championship. The remaining three rounds that make up the national championship include September 13th at Beech Ridge (ME) Motor Speedway, then on September 26th Kenly, North Carolina’s Southern National Raceway Park will host race three, and finally the national champion will be crowned at “The Meltdown” at South Boston (VA) Speedway on Saturday October 17th.

While the PASS National tour will be a new series that the Saint John, NB native will compete full time in, a return to the Carquest Maritime Pro Stock Tour in ’09 will be a very familiar one. For the third consecutive year Sommerville will tackle the twelve race chase for the championship with the hopes of dethroning defending champion Wayne Smith of the top spot.

Rounding out the team’s schedule will be a PASS North start in the series’ only trip outside the U.S. at Speedway 660 in Geary, NB which just happens to be Sommerville’s home track. Three races in three nights at three different racetracks starting July 3rd with a PASS South series race at the Greenville-Pickens Speedway in Greenville, SC followed by a July 4th ASA Challenge race at the track simply known as “The Rock” (Rockingham (NC) Speedway), and finally another PASS South event on July 5th at the Hickory (NC) Motor Speedway will complete the new season of racing.

Gary Crooks, a fellow Canadian native now residing in Mooresville, NC will also be returning to Lonnie Sommerville Racing as the team’s consultant in 2009. Crooks brings a long list of successful super late model accomplishments, team structure, and a ton of racecar engineering knowledge which will bolster an already stout race team.      

For more information and to get all the latest new on Lonnie Sommerville Racing visit their website at www.lonniesommerville.com. For media and public relations related issues contact Chris Ragle with Tex Motorsports Marketing at 704.706.3666.

From Chris Ragle // TEX Motorsports Marketing / Pro Photo Productions

Kawartha and Brighton Speedway drivers head to Cobourg's Northumberland Mall

FRASERVILLE, ON - After a long winter of tweaking this and twisting that, drivers from Kawartha Speedway will join their counterparts from Brighton Speedway Park for an annual display of racing machines – Tuesday, April 14th to Saturday, April 18th at Northumberland Mall in Cobourg. Kawartha general manager and promoter Derek Lynch says the drivers look forward to these events just as much as the fans.

“They’ve been cooped-up all winter too,” explained Lynch.  “It’s a passion for everyone involved in the sport.  The fans enjoy the chance to see the equipment and pick-up schedules for the new season.  While the drivers aren’t there through the entire show, most of them will wander in at some point and do a little ‘bench racing’ with the fans.”

Fresh from appearances at the Fast and Furious Motorsports Expo at the Cobourg Arena, Kawartha’s 2008 Thunder Car champion Willie Reyns and Norm Mayhew, who finished 8th in Late Model points at the popular 3/8th of a mile oval will have their cars on display.  Reyns recently unveiled his new colours and sponsors at the recent show.

“We’re happy to have Boundy Roofing, Appleman Carstar and Canadian Industrial Services back on the car,” said Reyns.  “For 2009, we’ll also welcome new partners including Cobourg Development Services and Acme Electric to the team.  Our sponsors are an important part of what we do every week and we’re thrilled to have them part of our program.”

Mayhew is hoping a change of colours may also lead to a change of luck.  The 28 year-old owner/operator of Mayhew Graphics detailed his red racer during the Fast and Furious Show, adding vinyl decals in stages during the 2 day event.

“When the car was black, we had more on-track incidents than any other time in my career,” said Mayhew.  “I’m hoping the red car will make things a little better.  Doing our graphics at the Cobourg Arena show gave people a good idea of what we’ll be doing this season and showed what we’re able to do as a company for prospective clients.”

Stormin’ Norman’s 2009 sponsors include Northumberland County Moving Company, Mowat Pit Wagons, Only Solutions, Cobourg Auto Collision and Mayhew Graphics.  It will be the second straight year he has represented Kawartha Speedway at the mall show while Reyns, who is currently developing a web-site www.reynsracing87.com will be making his first appearance.

Kawartha Speedway hosts an open practice session starting at 2:00 Friday, May 22nd.  The green flag drops on the 2009 racing season as the OSCAAR Outlaw Super Late Models join a night of late model, thunder car and mini stock action Friday, May 29th.  Highlights of the year include the American-Canadian Tour Summer Sizzler Sunday, July 12th and the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series season finale Saturday, September 26th.  The full schedule is available now at www.kawarthaspeedway.com.

Photo attachments:  (by Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications)

1).  Kawartha’s 2008 Thunder Car champion Willie Reyns brought his personal hardware collection to his display at the recent Fast and Furious show.

2).  Stormin’ Norman Mayhew will have his Kawartha Speedway Late Model displayed at Northumberland Mall for the second consecutive year.

Prepared by:  Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications

Ontario Pro Challenge: Hype Energy Drinks partners with Team Fletcher for 2009

MONTREAL, QC - HYPE Energy Drinks and SJF Motorsports, along with driver Scott Fletcher are teaming up once again as a part of the 2009 Ontario Pro Challenge Racing Series, the 13-race series which will be running at six different race tracks across Ontario this summer.

As the primary sponsor for the racing team, the #60 HYPE Energy Dodge Avenger will carry the stylish black and silver race-ready carbon fiber look already found on the cans of Hype MFP. The 2009 Ontario Pro Challenge car will also help introduce the newly released HYPE Energy Shots to the Ontario market.

HYPE Energy Drinks has had a long relationship with sponsoring Scott Fletcher, however this year mark’s the first time they will be Scott’s primary sponsor. Upon confirmation of the sponsorship agreement Scott Fletcher said, “I am really excited to be back working with HYPE Energy Drinks and Jon Silver. Being sponsored by a world-wide brand such as HYPE Energy and dealing with such a reputable group of individuals is something I take great pride in.”

HYPE Energy is made with the finest ingredients like real elderberry and cranberry juices, taurine, ginseng, guarana, and numerous vitamins as a part of its superior tasting formula. HYPE Energy Drinks are distributed across Canada by Les Aliments Unique Food, which is headquartered out of Montreal, Canada.

President of Les Aliments Unique Food, Jon Silver made the following statement after the partnership announcement was made official, “We were really pleased to team up with Scott Fletcher and SJF Motorsports as their primary sponsor for the 2009 season. Doing so is simply a great fit for us, as together we can give racing fans of all ages a chance to get to learn more about Scott and HYPE Energy Drinks at the same time.”

Along with being available on-site at official racing events, Scott Fletcher and SJF Motorsports will be attending joint promotional events with HYPE Energy across Ontario. The Ontario Pro Challenge series kicks off their 2009 season on May 9th, at Flamboro Speedway. For more information on The Ontario Pro Challenge Series and for the complete 2009 racing schedule, visit their website at http://www.prochallengeracing.com/.

Hype Energy™ was first launched in 1995 but was recharged with the purchase by a business group led by former Formula 1 racing driver and Le Mans winner, Bertrand Gachot, in 2000.

Since then, Hype has created its own subculture of music, entertainment, and performance based on four exciting product lines – Hype Energy MFP, Hype Energy, Hype Enlite, and the NEW HYPE 6-HOUR ENERGY SHOTS. Hype’s presence has electrified the global market and is currently sold in over 40 countries.

From SJF Motorsports

Merrittville Speedway: Countdown to the Spring Sizzler

THOROLD, ON (April 7) – In just 18 days, Merrittville Speedway’s 2nd annual Spring Sizzler 100 – will kick off the Thorold track’s 58th consecutive season - Saturday April 25th  in spite of today’s unfashionably late April Fool’s Snow Storm!

“This time of year – the weather can do anything … and it has,” storms (Merrittville Speedway GM) Erica Bicknell, “despite the overnight snow - we are in good shape – we have spent almost a full week back at the track and more then that on the grounds themselves …  everything is starting to come together nicely.”

With the big day getting that much closer – so too is practice day.

The evening session set for Saturday April 18th – 11 days away – may be one of the most important practices ever – with three divisions in big events right off the start – the following week.

While drivers representing the Original Pizza Logs Sportsman and Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinders will be looking for all important seat time in preparation for the Baron Roofing Windows and Doors hosting of the 58th Season Opener Saturday May 2nd – the balance of the Lucas Oil Weekly Racing Series Divisions get their start April 25th.

Up until last season – never before has such an event kicked off the season in the track’s 57 year history.

Merrittville’s own L. St. Amand Enterprises 358 Modifieds were up to the test with 7 of our home town heroes finishing in the top 10 at the end of the 100 lap event – led by eventual 2008 Point Champion Chad Brachmann, Pete Bicknell, Ken Cosgrove, Rick Richner, Larry Lampman Jr., Chris Steele and Scott Wood.

One of the largest influxes of rookies in recent years are expected to attempt to qualify in 2009 with Mark D’Ilario, Mat Williamson, Justin Sharp, 2008 Sportsman Champion Mike Bowman, and James Michael Friesen among the Rookie Crop.

Adding to the mix is veteran Rob Pietz who recently showed off this new car at the Seaway Mall. After a number of years in a Sprint Car – Pietz is returning to the 358 Modifieds this season.

Rounding out the 2nd Annual Spring Sizzler is a 25 lap Stars North Mod Lite Series Event in addition to the Hoosier Stocks.

While many will are counting down the days hours and minutes until they take to the track for the first time – several drivers have already seen action.

James Michael Friesen made his Big Block debut during the 38th Annual Alltel DIRTcar Nationals By UNOH at Volusia Speedway Park in Florida as did a large contingent of Modern Corporation Open Wheel Lites at the TUSA Winternationals at the East Bay Raceway including 2008 Champion Shawn Sliter, Paul Klager, Chris Steele, Adam Leslie, Jamie Gilbert, Josh Sliter, Wally Billing, Rick Brubacher and Scott Billing.

Since the mid-winter racing in the Sunshine State – a large contingent of Sportsman Race Teams took in this past weekend’s Rock Launcher Super DIRTcar Series Event at the Black Rock Speedway.

Mark D'Ilario made the most of his final Sportsman event – finishing 2nd to winner Sammy Reakes with Greg Panunte taking 7th spot. Rick Bellante (12th), Mark Chiddy, (13th), Tyler McPherson, (14th), Luke Carleton (18th) and Rob Knapp (25th) filled out the field while Brandon Easey, 2009 Rookie Cody McPherson, Brad Rouse, BJ Willard and Mark Dixon unfortunately failed to qualify.

Kevin Knapp also made the trip with his Hoosier Stock for the Street Stock portion of the Dundee NY Event and finished 11th out of the 37 cars that showed.

For further information on Practice Day, the 2nd Annual Spring Sizzler and the entire 58th Season at Merrittville Speedway – call 905-892-8266 or visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com.

From Jim Irvine / Merrittville Speedway

Innovators in the business of Amateur Racing - SPDA

The guys over at the SPDA, have developed an unheard of contingency package for their members.

PHOTO GALLERY: Inside Track at CSC Racing for the Solo Open House 2009

NEWMARKET, ONTARIO - On April 5, CSC Racing played host - once again - to the Solo Open House. For many years, CSC has welcome Inside Track to take part in this annual rite of spring and this year we had several team members on hand for the event.

Thank you to our friends at CSC and to those who took a moment to subscribe to the Official Publication of Canadian Motorsports.

Above is a photo gallery from the event, taken by Inside Track's Rob Morton.