BARON RAISING ROOF ON 55TH SEASON AT MERRITTVILLE

Thorold, Ontario … When Merrittville Speedway’s 2006 Season launches Saturday May 6th … Baron Roofing and Siding will present the 55th Season Opener.

“Although they’ve been involved on other programs and with our race teams over the years … they’re one of our newest event sponsors,” relates GM Erica Bicknell, “ they should be in for quite a show … as will our fans all season long.”

Race fans attending the first event will be able to welcome the new sponsor in addition to other new things that will remain for the whole season.

When the gates open at the new time of 5:30, a new admission price will be in place that will see Adults, Seniors and Students (13 to 18) all paying $10 for a Regular Show.

“The new Adult rate came due to a number of factors,” reveals Bicknell, “ we wanted to do a little something to celebrate the 55th … but more importantly … with the times as they are and prices continuing to rise … we have to ensure that Merrittville is affordable for the families of today.”

Special Events through-out the season will have a varying Admission Charge.

All events on the 2006 Schedule – unless noted – will begin at the new time of 7:15.

Last season saw many new drivers take to the track in all divisions and that trend will make for an exciting year once again.

While James Woods, Wayne Robins, Wayne Conn and Pete Bicknell are expected to defend their 2005 Titles in the 4 Cylinder, Classic/Mod Lites, Sportsmen and 358 Modified Divisions respectively – the growing Hoosier Stock Division will have a new champion in the coming year as Tyler McPherson will be moving to the Sportsmen Division.

While the Original Pizza Logs Sportsmen Division will see quite a large Rookie Class with some 10 first time drivers expected the other classes will also see many new faces also.

The Premier /Mademoiselle Fitness Centres Classic Mod Lite Division – the Dwarf Cars will see Malvin Jeffrey joined by former Merrittville Kart Racers Andy Tallman and Adam Leslie.

With McPherson leaving the Hoosier Stocks, his younger brother Cody will take over the controls of the Mike Granton owned 777. Others making their first starts include Shayne Pierce, Vince Fagnoli and Dave Kirby.

Veterans returning to the class include Rob Murray and Terry St. Amand.

In the L. St. Amand Enterprises 358 Modified Division, 2005 Sportsmen runner-up Derek Lemyre will run for Rookie of the Year honors in the premier division.

Moving from the 358 Modifieds to Sportsmen this season is veteran driver Brad Rouse who has competed in the class previously. Rouse makes the move with Baron Roofing as one of the sponsors of his #18.

If it’s over your head Baron Roofing can help. Call Baron Roofing in Hamilton, Burlington and through-out Niagara toll free at 1-888-597-3337 or 905-384-4000. Our references speak for themselves – we’re fully insured – call us today for your free estimate

For further information on Merrittville Speedway’55th consecutive season – call 905-892-8266 or visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com.

THE RACING AMANDAS READY FOR CANNONBALL RUN!

Canadian stock car racer Amanda Connolly along with American Road Course racer Amanda Hennessy will team up with Watervliet, New York-based KML Racing to field an entry in the 2006 CANNONBALL RUN ONE LAP OF AMERICA May 6 through May 13.

The CANNONBALL RUN ONE LAP OF AMERICA combines nearly twenty-four hours a day driving for seven days with competition taking place as time trials on race tracks throughout the country. The event is one of endurance and vehicle preparation. No support crews are allowed.

The tires that are used on the street are the same ones that are raced on (one set per team). Although scoring is based on performance at the race tracks, the vehicles and their drivers must survive more than 5,000 miles of driving interspersed with the finest meals available at gas station convenience stores. Friendships are stretched to the limits as these competitors battle fatigue, weather, traffic and the demands of high-speed competition--with both unknown amateurs and seasoned professional drivers.

KML Racing owner Don Kahn will provide the girls with a racy 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser and he is enthused by his all-female team that will drive the PT. “The girls are very talented and very much up to the task; I’m excited to see how they will do.” Kahn said.

Affectionately known as the “Amazing Amandas”, 26 year-old Connolly and 24 year-old Hennessy met in January while racing at Mazda Laguna Seca Raceway in Monterey, CA in the Skip Barber Championship Series when filming an MTV series pilot, BUILT FOR SPEED.

“We hit it off immediately,” states Connolly, adding, “Hennessy’s background is mostly road racing and mine is typically stock car racing; we lean on each other for help as we learn each other’s specialty.” The women know that they work well together. “We spent two weeks in Daytona, Florida after the race series in California,” explains Connolly. She adds, “Hennessy had put this deal together to run the One Lap race, but needed a co-driver. She asked me to do it and here we are!”

Hennessy says with a laugh, “We figure we’ll be at each other’s throats by day three.” Continuing, “You really test your friendship when you’re put in a situation that has you in a car together for 7 days straight.”

The “Amazing Amanda’s” are set to depart from South Bend, Indiana on May 6 and will race on a variety of tracks throughout the 7-day excursion before returning back to Indiana on May 13 for the final event which takes place on a wet skid pad.

“I’m really looking forward to racing on more road course tracks, but the stop at Florence Motor Speedway in South Carolina is the one I’m really looking forward to-- it’s a 4/10 mile oval and we run that event under the lights,” concludes Connolly.

For additional information on the race visit www.onelapofamerica.com. You can follow the Amazing Amandas on their journey daily at http://www.painkillerz.ca/ . For Sponsorship Information or photo requests please contact: Karen G. Jackovich Tel: 310 273-1827 Cell: 310 721-0537 or at karen.jackovich@sbcglobal.net.

About Amanda Connolly:
Amanda Connolly is a 26 year-old stock car racer from Aurora, Ontario, Canada. Connolly has raced for seven years on Ontario oval tracks and has accumulated more than 100 checkered flags and countless awards in her career. For 2006, she will run various road course events, and a partial Late Model schedule in Ontario, as well as one race in the CASCAR Super Series.

About Amanda Hennessy:
Amanda Hennessy is a 24 year old road racer from Albany, New York. She is a GM certified Mechanic and a veteran in the Spec-Racer Ford series. For 2006, she will run a limited schedule in the Spec-Racer Miata series.

CA... CA... CA....CA.... CATFIGHT! .... When NASCAR babes go bad!!!

The Toronto Star has a piece on what happens when wives and girlfriends get into the action.

CONCORD, N.C.—Greg Biffle's girlfriend faces a reprimand from NASCAR about her pit-road confrontation with Kurt Busch's fiancée after the two drivers wrecked at Texas Motor Speedway.

(H/T Bourque Newswatch)

KARTING: AJ WHISLER JOINS FIRSTKART.COM AND FIRST KART NORTH AMERICA

GUELPH, ON. – First Kart North America and the FirstKart.com race team is pleased to announce the resigning of longtime tuner AJ Whisler.

The 1999 winner of the Rock Island Grand Prix - King of the Streets will begin work immediately for First Kart North America from his home in Phoenix, AZ before joining the squad in their second location, the yet to be named Brownsburg, Indiana distribution center.

“The key to growing in this sport is to put the right people in the right positions and offer unparalleled technical and product support,” explained First Kart President Tony Ventresca. “AJ has a great work ethic and is passionate about the sport and will fit in well with the entire FirstKart.com operation.”

The new Director of Sales and Co-Team Manager will begin his employment immediately as he will be burning up the phone lines trying to solidify driver acquisitions and secure dealership locations. Whisler will also join the FirstKart.com race team and will play a big role in the tuning duties for First Kart’s national level arrive-and-drive operation.

“I am very excited about the opportunity that Tony and all the guys at First Kart have given me,” expressed an excited Whisler. “The whole FirstKart.com operation is top-notch and I hope that I will be able to add to their successes.”

Once the USA location opens, Whisler will look to re-locate to the Indianapolis area and join Marketing and Co-Team Manager Mike Maurini at the Brownsburg location. Until then, AJ Whisler can be contacted at aj@firstkart.com

First Kart North America is looking to expand the FirstKart.com race team with arrive and drive opportunities on both the East and West coast for the 2006 racing season. Arrive and Drive opportunities are available in most classes competing in the Stars of Karting, World Karting Association Manufactures Cup, Sunoco Ron Fellows Karting Championship and several special events throughout North America. Interested parties are asked to contact the First Kart offices toll free at 519.824.4343.

First Kart North America is also looking to expand its dealer network across the country. With the quality and craftsmanship in the First Kart product line and the support the dealers receive, First Kart North America is making the choice easy. For more information on First Kart North America, product sales, the FirstKart.com race team and exciting dealership opportunities including information on how to get into kart racing please contact First Kart President Tony Ventresca or Mike Maurini at 519-824-4343 or visit them online at http://www.firstkart.com/ .

From Autosports Media // Mike Maurini // P: 317.270.8723 // autosportsmedia@earthlink.net

THE 2006 LUCAS OIL CANADIAN DIRT SERIES

CORNWALL, ON – Five of Canada’s top DIRT promoters met in Cornwall on April 1 to finalize plans for the 2006 Lucas Oil Canadian DIRT Series.

PHOTO: THE LUCAS OIL CANADIAN DIRT SERIES PROMOTORS. From left to right: Serge Legace, Paul Kirkland, Ron Morin, Francis Potvin and Bob Gatien

Ron Morin (Cornwall Motor Speedway), Paul Kirkland (Brockville Ontario Speedway), Bob Gatien (Autodrome Granby), Serge Lagace (Autodrome Edelweiss) and Francis Potvin (Asst. Promoter at Autodrome Drummond) announced the five-race series of 100 lappers for 358 DIRT Modifieds.

The series, which started six years ago with just two venues (Cornwall and Granby) has grown each year as more tracks have been added. Brockville is the newest member, signing on for 2006.

Last year, the series was won by Danny O’Brien of Kingston, ON. He was one of 17 drivers who competed in every round of the Lucas Oil Series. In all, 35 racers participated.

For 2006, the Canadian DIRT Series has attracted sponsorship from Lucas Oil, who will be adding extra cash to the already lucrative prize fund.

The total payout – including race purses, heat money, the points fund and special awards – will be approaching $100,000. To guarantee consistency of officiating and smooth operations, race directors at each track will work in conjunction with tour director Denis Moquin. He is an experienced DIRT official who recently co-ordinated the Sportsman Super Dirt Series.

Moquin will be joined by a trio of capable officials. Al Durivage will take care of the points, while Brian Mulligan and Sylvain Mercier will be in charge of promotion.
The Lucas Oil Canadian DIRT Series kicks off Friday July 14 at Autodrome Granby. It returns to action the next night (July 15) at Drummond. The Lucas Series finishes with a flurry on July 28, 29, 30 when the tour visits Edelweiss, Brockville, and Cornwall, respectively.

KAWARTHA: Open Practice Scheduled for May 26

From Kawartha Speedway's Website...

Kawartha Speedway will be holding an open test day on Friday May 26th. Track time will be available from 3:00 pm until dark. (approx. 8:30 pm).

Due to continuous requests from race teams in all divisions, Kawartha Speedway will offer teams an open test day one week prior to the regularly scheduled season opener. There are several new teams coming to Kawartha for the first time, as well as an influx of rookie drivers in every division, that have expressed interest in having a chance to turn some laps in preparation for the 2006 season opener.

... Tech staff will be on hand to give teams the chance to have any technical procedures performed or have questions answered prior to opening night... Entry will be $5.00 per person in the pit area. Spectators will be free of charge. There will be no grandstands available for this event.

Affordable karting this weekend at Sunset Speedway

This looks like a great deal. I think I might head to the track myself.

From Sunset Speedway's Website...

Sunset Karting Experience - 25 for 25 This Long Weekend

The Sunset Karting Experience will once again be running this long weekend with open lapping on Friday, Saturday and Sunday (April 14-16) from 1 until 4pm.

The karts will be hitting the track for a special "arrive and drive" event - they will be available for rental at the special rate of $25 dollars for 25 laps. It will be first come first serve, so be sure to get there early! Anyone under 18 should call ahead to get the required approval - call 705-436-2445 for more details.

The Sunset Karting Experience is powered by 5.5 and 6HP race-prepared karts and runs through the summer on a special course set up on the back stretch of Sunset's 1/3 mile oval. Normal race events consist of 2 practice sessions, 2 heats and a feature.

Call 705-436-2445 for more information.

SPRINT CAR PRACTICE DAYS...

From the SOS Insider....

Sprint cars are welcome to participate in the various practice days that are listed below. This is a great opportunity to shake down your equipment and get some seat time before the real action begins. Remember, opening day is Saturday, May 6th at Brighton Speedway.

BRIGHTON SPEEDWAY
Saturday, April 22nd 1:00 pm ­ 4:00 pm
Wednesday, April 26th 6:00 pm ­ 8:00 pm

HUMBERSTONE SPEEDWAY
Sunday, April 23rd Gates open at 10:00 am

SOUTH BUXTON RACEWAY
Saturday, April 29th Gates open at 1:30 pm

OHSWEKEN SPEEDWAY
Saturday, May 13th Gates open at 10:30 am

Press Release - Royal Distributing

Courtesy Mark Fries

Royal Distributing, in conjunction with KTM Canada would like to proudly announce the newly formed Royal Distributing Pro Xtreme Motocross Team. We will be competing nationally in the CMRC aboard KTM motorcycles. The team will ride out of the impressive RoyalDistributing.com hauler. Royal and KTM have assembled a very strong group of riders to compete in the MX1, and MX2 National Championship Series'.
Contending for the MX2 West Title will be Micheal Sleeter #181. Micheal is from Escondido, California, and turned pro in 2001. Micheal is a KTM factory test rider, who helped develop the new 250SXF. This past winter Micheal rode KTM's as a privateer in the AMA Supercross Lites, made finals and posted excellent results against well funded factory guys. Micheal has but one goal this year, to win the MX2 West title aboard a Royal Distributing KTM.

Contending for the MX2 East Title will be Iain Hayden #62. Iain is from Espanola, Ontario, and has been riding pro MX and snowcross for many years. Iain is fresh off a very dominating season aboard the Royal Distributing Ski-Doo's in a perfect season of finals, winning the CSRA National Titles in both Pro Stock and Pro Open snowcross. Iain will also start the CMRC season riding the western national rounds aboard a 450SXF KTM. Iain is in great shape and can't wait to get back on the bikes.

Contending for the MX1 National title will be Marco Dube #24, from Montreal, Quebec. Marco will be riding the 450SXF nationally, and is very excited to be back competing in Canada on KTM's. Among Marco's credits are: 2 Time Canadian Champion , 5 Time Canadian Arenacross Champion, 2002 US Open 4-Stroke Champion, Most Victories won by a Canadian Amateur. Marco is a class act, and has been training hard in the US all winter.

We at Royal are very excited for the upcoming season to start. KTM has proven that their "Race Ready" approach to bikes wins races and championships, as KTM won the MX2 East championship last year with Micheal Willard. Royal Distributing is going to be using this team to display their various brands with a unique rider gear package. Hayden will be riding with Answer gear, Sleeter with Shift gear, and Dube with FXR gear. Royal sells and stands behind these brands with race proven testing. Royal Distributing is proud to be involved with the Canadian Motocross scene as a 3rd year sponsor this year of the CMRC national series. Royal Distributing is also the proud sponsor the the Royal Distributing holeshot award, which awards $200 for each Pro Moto in the national Rounds in MX1, and MX2 to the holeshot winner. Royal Distributing will also remain a major sponsor of the KTM/Stoneridge/Royal factory KTM national team, as they look to expand on the success of last year.

BARRIE SPEEDWAY: Steve St. Onge joins Barrie Speedway ownership team

From Barrie Speedway's website....

Barrie Speedway is pleased to announce the addition of Steve St. Onge as a new partner at Barrie Speedway.

St. Onge, a well-respected and successful business owner in Barrie, has been a long-time sponsor and supporter of Barrie Speedway. Steve's relationship with the track started as a fan, but blossomed after attending Barrie's racing school and his involvement at the track has grown ever since.

"I'm really excited about the new venture with Barrie Speedway, the track has come a long way and we want to keep that momentum", says St. Onge. "I've spent a lot of time racing here and I think that gives me a great perspective on what we can do to make sure Barrie Speedway is where drivers want to race. I'm looking forward to working with everyone at the track to make a great place even better."

St. Onge is also an accomplished racer himself, with stints in all three Barrie Speedway divisions. When he's not behind the wheel he operates a very successful recreational vehicle business, St. Onge Recreation, at Molson Park in Barrie. He's recently added a second outlet, Barrie Dock and Marine, on highway 11 just north of Gasoline Alley.

"Steve brings a lot to the table", says Barrie's Brad Moran. "He's got deep roots in the community and can really help us drive more sponsorship to the track. He's also well-respected and well-liked here at the track and has established a great rapport with the drivers and crews. He's passionate about racing and so am I -- you can expect lots of excitement around the track as we really kick things into high gear!"

Former partner Gord Coates has left the track to pursue other interests. Barrie Speedway wishes Gord the very best in his future endeavours.

Have you voted yet? Voting ends April 28.

The Inside Track Readers' Choice Awards are in full swing.
We need your input to determine Canada's best.

ACURA ENTERING AMERICAN LE MANS SERIES IN 2007

Marking one of the most significant manufacturer announcements in the history of the American Le Mans Series, the Acura division of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., today announced plans to enter the Series in 2007 with a factory prototype program.

The Acura prototype initiative is the first factory motorsports program for Acura, the luxury brand of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., in its 20-year history. Multiple Acura-powered LMP2 entries will make their competition debut at the 55th Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring to start the American Le Mans Series season in March of 2007.

Acura's race program will feature engines designed and developed by Honda Performance Development mated with chassis from some of the world's most prestigious manufacturers including Lola from England and Courage of France.

Recognizing the leading-edge technology and manufacturer involvement present in the Series, the Acura-related announcement adds yet another world-class manufacturer into the American Le Mans Series ranks. The Series is the only sports car platform to offer such competitive diversity on the worldwide stage. When the 2007 American Le Mans Series season opens, Acura will stand alongside marques including Audi, Aston Martin, BMW, Chevrolet, Ferrari, Lexus, Mazda, Panoz, Porsche and Saleen on the grid that boasts more than 10 of the world's elite automobile manufacturers competing head-to-head.

"The American Le Mans Series has always featured factory involvement from the most prestigious collection of auto manufacturers in the world. Today, it is with great pride that we welcome Acura," said Scott Atherton, President and CEO of the American Le Mans Series. "Our platform features world-class manufacturers showcasing their products in one of the most extreme, but relevant forms of motorsports – endurance sports car racing. Acura has done exhaustive research and has confirmed that the American Le Mans Series is the premium brand of motorsports and involvement in the Series is the best way to display its technology and innovation to our upscale and affluent audience.

"This news is the culmination of many years of hard work by all involved," Atherton added. "While there still are some details to be worked out, Acura's entry into the American Le Mans Series will have nothing but positive repercussions in the seasons to come. Acura has made a commitment to us, and we are committed to seeing that Acura receives the same return on its investment as our other teams and manufacturers. This is the start of a wonderful relationship that is only going to grow stronger."

Acura's announcement is the latest in what has been a succession of major announcements regarding manufacturer and team involvement in the American Le Mans Series. What started with the announcements of Porsche's return with a factory-backed prototype and Mazda's return to professional sports car racing has been followed by news of Penske Racing's involvement, BMW's return, new Dyson Racing Lolas, a new factory Lexus effort, the new diesel-powered Audi R10 TDI, the return of Ferrari with its F430GT and a new Radical LMP2; the good news just keeps coming.

"As Acura marks its 20-year anniversary, I can't think of a better racing series to showcase our technology and performance than the American Le Mans Series," said John Mendel, senior vice president of Honda Automobile Operations. "Our entry as a full factory team in the American Le Mans Series will accurately reflect Acura's position as a leader in automotive performance and technology, and provide us with an arena to compete against other manufacturers in endurance sports car racing."

Advanced technology and cutting-edge innovation are the hallmarks of Honda Performance Development, which will manufacture the engine for the Acura prototype program. The 3.4-liter, aluminum alloy V8 powerplant will be the first completely designed and developed in-house by Honda Performance Development, which serves as American Honda's wholly-owned racing subsidiary.

"We're looking forward with great anticipation to entering the American Le Mans Series," said Robert Clarke, president of Honda Performance Development. "In addition to returning Acura to the international racing stage against other innovative automotive manufacturers, it allows us to continue to grow HPD into a world-class performance company."

Testing of the Acura-powered prototypes will begin this summer. Drivers and teams will be announced in the near future.

Acura has a storied history in sports car racing, particularly with the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA). Acura-supported teams won three consecutive Camel Lights championships from 1991-93 including a class victory at Sebring in 1993.

"This is a landmark project in numerous ways, " Atherton continued. "One of the most significant effects of Acura's new racing program is the reintroduction of an American-made engine back into our prototype categories. When Dr. Don Panoz founded the American Le Mans Series, he wanted to bring the spirit and cache of Le Mans to North America but also feature American-made content. Thanks to Acura and Honda Performance Development, another portion of his vision has been realized.

"As mentioned, Acura (Honda) has a proven track record of getting involved with racing series on all fronts," Atherton concluded. "They are not simply going to enter some cars and hope for the best. I think we will see Acura being actively involved in all aspects of the American Le Mans Series, on and off the track."

- From ALMS

CASCAR: BRAD GRAHAM & CHALLENGER MOTOR FREIGHT/LOGEL’S AUTO PARTS DODGE APPEAR AT TRUCKWORLD 2006!

April 12, 2006. The spring weather continues to warm up and preparations are heating up for Brad Graham and the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Charger Dodge team and the 2006 CASCAR Super Series racing season.

“This is really a fun time of the year” said driver Brad Graham. “All of the guys on our crew are pretty excited about coming to the shop and getting the cars ready because we all realize that the first race of the season is only about a month away, and with our success last year getting onto the podium and finishing the season in the top five we’re chomping at the bit the get started”.

On the agenda for the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Charger Dodge even before the season opening event at Barrie Speedway in May is their scheduled appearance at the Truck World 2006 show at the Toronto International Centre on April 20, 21 and 22. “This is a huge show for our sponsor Challenger Motor Freight and every year we bring our car and get to meet a lot of race fans, sign some autographs and take pictures” said Graham. “We really enjoy meeting all the people that come out to these shows.

This enormous Trucking Industry show will take up five exhibition halls at the Toronto International Centre, located near Toronto’s Pearson International Airport. Make sure you visit the Challenger Motor Freight Recruitment Coaches at the show. You can find out more information about the show at http://www.truckworld.ca/

The CASCAR Super Series is Canada’s only sanctioned National touring stock car racing series competing from coast to coast. The 2006 racing season opening event takes place May 20 and 21st at Barrie Speedway. CASCAR will also race at other oval tracks in Canada and compete at the Grand Prix of Edmonton and the Grand Prix of Trois Rivieres.

For more information regarding Brad Graham and the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Dodge log onto cascar.ca.

- From TL Sports & Ent.

F1: Canadian reportedly losing interest.... Midland set to park cars after Monaco?

From a story on tsn.ca

Rumours continue to dog Russian-born Canadian Alex Schnaider that he has lost his desire to continue funding the F1 team and that the budget at Midland has been cut back severely.

Schnaider is said to be listening to offers from Russian banking and vodka magnate Roustam Tariko, who was previously linked to a buyout of the team last year.

The Telegraph reports there are concerns amid some employees that the team may not continue beyond the Monaco Grand Prix unless some new investment is found.

... more at the link above.

CASCAR: MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CANADA TO SPONSOR CASCAR ‘YOUNG GUN’ J.R. FITZPATRICK

Toronto (April 6, 2006) – Milwaukee Electric Tool Canada Ltd. is pleased to announce their participation in the CASCAR Super Series for the 2006 season. Milwaukee will be the main sponsor of JR Fitzpatrick’s #84 Chevy Monte Carlo campaigned by Fitzpatrick Motorsports of Ayr, Ontario.

"JR is an exciting young up and coming driver who finished in the top ten in last years championship,” stated Milwaukee national sales manager John Mann, “and we are pleased to be able to work with this professional outfit to see him compete for the 06 title."

“CASCAR offers an excellent fit between our rugged line of ‘Heavy Duty’ power tools and the many avid followers of the CASCAR series," continued Mann. “Auto Racing offers a chance for our loyal dealers and customers to participate in an exciting forum throughout the summer and we feel that by teaming up with J.R. and the Fitzpatrick Motorsports team we have the best of both worlds. We anticipate seeing the Milwaukee Rolling Thunder Chevy Monte Carlo to be at or near the front battling for wins this season"

Fitzpatrick made his Super Series debut in the 2004 season in which he narrowly missed Rookie of the Year honors in a hard-fought battle with Pete Shepherd III. He made his first visit to the podium in 2005 on the road course at Mosport International Raceway, and has shown consistent improvement over his first two seasons in Canada’s top level of stock car racing. 2006 promises to be a breakout season for the young star and with the support of Milwaukee, Fitzpatrick has all the pieces in place to make a run at the Championship.

“I am very excited to have Milwaukee come on board as primary sponsor of my number 84 Monte Carlo,’ stated Fitzpatrick. “Milwaukee is a great brand and their line of Heavy Duty tools will play a big role in getting me ahead of the competition during our pit stops this year. I am very excited to fly the Milwaukee colours and take the Milwaukee Rolling Thunder Chevy Mote Carlo to the front of the pack in 2006.”

Fitzpatrick will campaign the Milwaukee Rolling Thunder Monte Carlo out of the legendary Fitzpatrick Motorsports shop, home of five-time and defending Super Series Champion Don Thomson Jr. Fitzpatrick’s father John will also compete in the 2006 Championship, making for a three-car assault.

“Our motto is shared by the whole team at Fitzpatrick Motorsports which is ‘Pride in Workmanship. Respect for Honest Labour. Dedication to making a difference.’,” summed up Mann. “These are the beliefs we share with the professional men and woman we serve".

BRIGHTON SPEEDWAY: CARQUEST Auto Parts Joins Applefest 358 Dirt Modified Shootout

BRIGHTON, ON – CARQUEST Auto Parts is joining Imagefactor.ca in presenting one of the upcoming season’s most anticipated and biggest events at Brighton Speedway. Following the success of the 2005 event the CARQUEST Applefest 358 Dirt Modified Shootout, presented by Imagefactor.ca, will take place on September 23rd at the 1/3rd mile clay oval.

Last year’s inaugural event drew 18 cars and Kyle Dingwall of Brockville came out victorious over some high profile favorites such as Mark Hitchcock, Chris Jones, Dave Heaslip and Rob Peitz. “Building off last year’s success we expect even more teams for the 2006 40 lap event” said Event Co-ordinator Greg Calnan, of Imagefactor.ca . Mark Rinaldi, Brighton Speedway Promoter believes “the evenly dispersed purse structure that isn’t top heavy and pays well right down to 24th is a big reason the race received the support it did.” The 2006 edition of the event will pay $1750.00 to win and $350 to start.

Imagefactor.ca located in Brantford, Ontario, and the initial sponsor of this event, is quickly becoming one of the province’s top motorsports marketing and promotions companies. In it’s third year of support at Brighton Speedway, their work has had a large impact on the new look and image that is becoming more familiar to dirt track racing fans throughout Ontario, Quebec and the Upper United States.

Calnan is excited about the addition of CARQUEST to the event. “A name as recognizable and highly-respected as CARQUEST Auto Parts, who has always been a tremendous supporter of racing across North America, including NASCAR's premier divisions, indicates that the 358 Dirt Modified Shootout is an event not to be missed. With nine stores within a 1 hour radius of Brighton Speedway they already provide great support to drivers and fans alike. Their commitment to this event reinforces the affect they have on local grassroots motorsport racing”.

The support for local activities will continue on September 23rd, 2006 as Brighton Speedway and CARQUEST team up to donate $1 from each admission ticket to CARQUEST’s effort to supporting Special Olympics through the Law Enforcement Torch Run. CARQUEST Auto Parts is proud to be the Premier International Partner of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. The Torch Run supports a wide variety of local fund raising activities with CARQUEST, with 100% of all local funds remaining in the state or province where they are raised. Since 1998, CARQUEST has raised more than $5 million in cash for Special Olympics, and the drivers and fans at Brighton Speedway Park will have an opportunity to contribute by attending the CARQUEST 358 Dirt Modified Shootout.

For more information and to keep up to date on future announcements visit the event web www.imagefactor.ca/applefestshootout , or Brighton Speedway at www.brightonspeedway.com.
The first race event of the year is scheduled for April 29th, 2006 when the stock cars hit the track for opening night. Admission is only $2.00 with a non-perishable food donation that will support local food banks. Green flag flies at the new start time of 7:00pm. For more information, contact Brighton Speedway at (613) 475-1102.

First sign of Spring.... Delaware holds practice day

Delaware Speedway held its first practice day on Saturday afternoon. Despite chilly temperatures, the track was dry. Delaware's Jeff Wilcox reports that there was a great turnout of cars and people, all eager to get a jump on the new racing season.

Photo courtesy of Gary Kallies / Pro One

NASCAR goes to composite bodies for GN div'ns. I was half expecting to see Performance Fibreglass on this list....

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (April 10, 2006) NASCAR Grand National Division teams, from the Busch East Series or AutoZone West Series, have one thing they can count on during the racing season.

Photo: A molded composite body, which is being introduced as a cost-saving measure in the NASCAR Grand National Division in 2006, is shown on one of Ken Schrader's AutoZone West Series cars.

After most short track races, where close-quarters racing leads to contact between cars, the custom-mounted steel bodies on their cars will need some attention.

Fixing dents or replacing entire body panels, however, can be costly. The labor-intensive bodywork is a big expense for Grand National Division teams and NASCAR s Research & Development staff is taking steps to alleviate the cost concerns.

Beginning in 2006, Grand National Division teams will have the option of using a molded synthetic composite body, which comes in one piece and is designed to save teams money while maintaining the quality of racing on the track. The composite body will be mandatory in 2007.

As we continue to restructure NASCAR s regional touring series, cost containment on our teams behalf will be a top priority, said Don Hawk, NASCAR Director of Regional Racing Development.

In the Grand National Division, the constant bodywork has always been a major expense and this new composite body has the potential to drastically reduce costs in the long term. Our goal is to provide some financial relief and help these teams make the most of their resources.

Mounting and repairs of the new composite bodies are expected to cost less, because less time is required and most pieces can be more easily replaced. As an added benefit, the competition on the track will be enhanced by a universal body shape, which reduces the aerodynamic advantages of one model over another.

Veteran NASCAR driver Ken Schrader, who recorded his 11th career AutoZone West Series victory in January at Phoenix International Raceway, has installed one of the first composite bodies on one of his cars. Although the body has yet to be raced, Schrader says the new package is a welcome change.

"I think it ll be a tremendous help," said Schrader. The cost savings of this body versus a metal body, plus the cost of buying templates, is huge. There are a lot of advantages. Anything to get the cost of the sport down is going to be a big help.

South Carolina-based American Fiberglass will manufacture the bodies based on specifications provided by NASCAR. The body design will be fundamentally the same for all makes and models, however teams will be able to customize window openings and decals to suit their own type of car.

Pre-manufactured window pieces and decals are made by Five Star Stock Car Bodies. The bodies, window pieces, and decals are available from the following distributors: BSR Products, Eshleman Racing, and Summit Racing Equipment.

The introduction of composite bodies is just one part of NASCAR s comprehensive approach to lowering the costs of racing in the Grand National Division, which serves as a feeder system to NASCAR s three national series.

- From NASCAR

Nikitenko Motorsports Release

Written by Greg Cybulski

(April 8, 2006) Since the mid-point of the 1900's, Sprint Car racing in the north was filled with names like Andy Nikitenko, Doug Groves, Lou Kennedy, Don Mack, Jim Bergo, Dave Skari, Jim "Hoss" Hauge, Danny Schatz and Oscar Corum who carved their historical racing careers on North Dakota tracks like Grand Forks Speedway, Red River Valley Speedway in Fargo and Nodak Speedway in Minot.

In the true spirit of renewing old school wisdom with a new generation of racer, two prominent northern racing family names are teaming up to create a new Sprint Car team in 2006.

Nikitenko Motorsports of Minot, North Dakota is pleased to announce that it has entered a partnership with Lou Kennedy Sr of Winnipeg, Manitoba that will see second generation driver Greg Nikitenko race for the 2006 championships of the Northern Outlaw Sprint Association and River Cities Speedway in Grand Forks, North Dakota.

Greg will be bringing his current sponsors over to his new ride along with Kennedy's which will be displayed on the number 6 Sprint Car. The colors for 2006 will be a predominantly yellow car with some black and red mixed into the paint scheme with a red number 6.

Although he has raced his own equipment for most of his past ten years of racing a Sprint Car, Nikitenko did drive the Layton-owned K9 car in 2003.

Greg talked about the difference between the two experiences:
"I like working on the race car, just doing it all gets to be a big task week in and week out. Driving for a different car owner takes a lot of weight off of my shoulders as far as weekly prep work to the car and equipment. That was pretty easy to get used to when I drove for the Layton's in 2003.”

The Minot driver summarized his feelings about the upcoming racing season:
"To be able to race for somebody like Lou Kennedy Sr. who has that much experience winning races over the years is very exciting and I'm eager to learn from him. He has good equipment and obviously the know-how to make it go fast. We both have a strong desire to win and to partner up with him is going to be a winning combination and a lot of fun for all of us. It's a pretty big story in my racing career."

If Greg Nikitenko's enthusiasm is any indication of things to come this season, the combination of Nikitenko and Kennedy will be making some of their own racing history in 2006.

Ontario Formula Ford Release Corrections

Below are corrections to a release posted on April 5, 2006:

Two corrections.

The price for the VARAC Vintage Festival is $350 same as all the other Race Ontario weekend events as stated in the driver's package.

The last press release had a wrong email address for Shortt's Motorsport Support. It should be teamshortt@rogers.com.

Sorry for any misunderstandings...

David P. Hilton
V.P. BARC
Ontario Formula Ford Challenge Marketing and Promotion Manager

"Living life is an effective way of killing time"

TAGLIANI THIRD IN LONG BEACH

Courtesy Brett Murray

Team Australia’s Alex Tagliani has made a fantastic start to this year’s Champ Car World Series by finishing third in the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach in California.

Tagliani’s teammate Will Power, from Toowoomba, ran as high as fourth early in the race, but a couple of “rookie” mistakes saw him eventually finish ninth despite a couple of spins in his Aussie Vineyards Lola.

The race was won by defending series champion Sebastian Bourdais and Englishman Justin Wilson.

The result backs-up Tagliani’s two podium finishes in Monterrey Mexico and Toronto Canada in 2005.

There was dramatic start to the race when a first-turn accident eliminated Paul Tracy, Oriol Servia and AJ Allmendinger. Bruno Junqueira was also involved, but lasted another four laps before having to retire.

This allowed Tagliani to go from seventh to third and Power from ninth to fifth by the end of the second lap.

A second yellow on lap 13 saw both Tagliani and Power pit. A quick stop saw Power jump past Mario Dominguez into fourth spot.

Power had Dominguez in his mirrors and overshot the braking marker at turn 1 on lap 36, but he avoided hitting the wall. He did loose a lot of time when his engine stalled.

Shortly after, another yellow flag was waved after Katherine Legge spun and stalled at turn five.

Tagliani went into third with a great pass on Dominguez on Shoreline Drive on lap 50 and held his position all the way to the chequered flag.

Power spun again on lap 57 at turn nine after his car “bottomed out” on cold tyres and locked rear brakes. He recovered to pick up a few places over the remaining 17 laps.

Earlier in the day Team Australia’s Simon Pagenaud was fourth in the opening race of the Champ Car Atlantic season.

His young Australian teammate James Davison was 13th in a solid debut.

The race was won by Andreas Wirth from Raphael Matos and James Hinchcliffe.

The next round of the Champ Car World Series and the Champ Car Atlantic Series will be held in Houston from May 11-13.

WHAT THEY HAD TO SAY…..

ALEX TAGLIANI - #15 AUSSIE VINEYARDS TEAM AUSTRALIA LOLA
“I anticipated the start a little bit but had to take three different lines coming into the opening turn with all of the action going on in front of me. We were lucky that we came out of it clean,” said Tagliani. “From there it was a case of sticking to our strategy and keeping my nose clean for the remainder of the race. All throughout the race the car was very consistent and it was good to reward the team for their hard work in the off season with a podium finish. With two new engineers in Team Australia this year I think we have a little more depth in our team and definitely more experience on board. I think we’ll get more consistent in our results because of that.”

WILL POWER - #5 AUSSIE VINEYARDS TEAM AUSTRALIA LOLA
“I was pretty happy with the weekend, but I just made a couple of mistakes too many,” said Power. “(Mario) Dominguez was attacking me and I just braked too late. Then I could not get out of the run-off area and lost too much time and ended up at the back of the pack. I got around three cars on the re-start, but the car bottomed out badly on cold tyres and I locked up and spun again. There is no doubt that I learnt a lot this weekend and I will carry that into future races. The car was quick, I was quick and my fitness level has been strong. I was able to push pretty hard and I am working better with my engineer in every session. We could have finished with a better result here, but we did finish and escaped with some points. I think we have some good times ahead of us.”

DERRICK WALKER – CO-OWNER TEAM AUSTRALIA
“Overall it was a pretty good day,” said Walker. “Alex made a good start and did what he needed to do to put himself in a position for a podium. Will probably tried a little too hard and got caught out a couple of times. He was a bit of a target because we were trying to save fuel, but he will certainly learn from that. I think Will had the speed to be fourth or fifth at the end of the day. We now have a couple of days testing at Portland this week, which will be a great opportunity for Will to get a lot more seat time.”

CRAIG GORE – CO-OWNER TEAM AUSTRALIA
“That was a fantastic start to the season for Team Australia an Alex in particular,” said Gore. To be back on the podium in our first race of the season with only a couple of days testing under our belts is testimony to the team of people we have, led by Derrick (Walker). Will (Power) had a tough day, but people forget just how few miles he has under his belt in one of these cars. There is no one in the Champ Car paddock that does not think that Will cannot be a force to be reckoned with in this series.”

Saab Canada and JL Racing Debut 9-3 Race Car

Courtesy John Lockhart

Caledon/Ottawa – JL Racing announced today its intention to campaign a pair of Saab 9-3 Sedans in the Canadian Automobile Sport Clubs (CASC) Ontario Touring Car GT Series. Team Principals John Lockhart, Len Clue, and Jeremy Hamilton provided details of the program which will see the first car ready for the season opener in May.

"We are grateful for the relationship with Saab Canada and are lookingforward to having the 9-3 to the race track, showing Canada what a greatcar it really is", said Lockhart.

BRIGHTON SPEEDWAY: READY TO GIVE BACK

BRIGHTON, ON – As the schedules are being printed and everyone is gearing up for the 2006 racing season, the Management Team at Brighton Speedway Park has included many chances for the fans, drivers, sponsors and staff to give back to the community.

Kicking off the season on April 29th, 2006 the local food banks will see a boost to their inventory as all tickets are $2.00 with a donation of non-perishable foods. Fans will get to see their first glimpse of the 2006 roster, and watch some dirt track action, while ensuring that those closest to them who may need to secure food items for their families, will have an easier time doing so.

Local public schools will benefit from the General Mills Race to Read Program, designed by Brighton Speedway Park staff to encourage literacy while learning about the fast cars and their local drivers. The participating grade three class that reads the most minutes will be invited to attend the races, where the champion individual reader will be awarded their prizes, on May 20, 2006.

For the first time ever at Brighton Speedway Park the Bay of Quinte Harley Owner Group (HOG) will be putting on a display & asking the fans and drivers to do their part to support the well known Ride For Site on June 10, 2006.

Always a fan’s favourite is the Mayor’s Hospice Cup. No one knows yet what they will be maneuvering to win the title, but former participants have been seen driving blindfolded, accelerating in reverse and hot lapping on lawn mowers. Current champion Hector MacMillan will be ready to defend his title against the Mayor’s from all 7 municipalities in Northumberland County on Saturday June 24, 2006. Everyone is encouraged to sponsor their favourite mayor and raise money for the Northumberland Lakeshore Hospice.

Returning to Brighton Speedway Park in 2006 is the locally driven Chase for the Cure. Drivers seek sponsorship for the Canadian Cancer Society and then together they walk 5 laps of the 1/3 mile clay oval. For a small donation fans can join their favourites in the walk that was started in 2005 by driver Greg Belyea and his wife. Schedule yourself to be at the races on August 26, 2006 to participate in this fund raising event.

The support for local activities will continue on September 23rd, 2006 as Brighton Speedway and CARQUEST team up to donate $1 from each admission ticket to CARQUEST’s effort to supporting Special Olympics through the Law Enforcement Torch Run. CARQUEST Auto Parts is proud to be the Premier International Partner of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics.

The Torch Run supports a wide variety of local fund raising activities with CARQUEST, with 100% of all local funds remaining in the state or province where they are raised. Since 1998, CARQUEST has raised more than $5 million in cash for Special Olympics, and the drivers and fans at Brighton Speedway Park will have an opportunity to contribute by attending the CARQUEST 358 Dirt Modified Shootout, presented by Imagefactor.ca.

Although special events are a key way for fans, drivers and sponsors to give back to their community, available every night is the opportunity to contribute to Quinte Access, by purchasing Nevada Tickets outside the canteen area. All dollars raised through “Loonie Announcements” made by announcer Huck Flindall to recognize birthdays, anniversaries or special events in the lives of fans are also donated back to local charity.

Brighton Speedway Park fans, drivers and sponsors are contributing to the local community andwill continue to support the agencies and organizations that try to improve quality of life for those throughout Northumberland County. For complete up to date schedules of special events and fund raisers be sure to visit the web site at www.brightonspeedway.com.

The first race event of the year is scheduled for April 29th, 2006 when the stock cars hit the track for opening night. As mentioned, admission is only $2.00 with a non-perishable food donation. Green flag flies at the new start time of 7:00pm. For more information, contact Brighton Speedway at (613)475-1102.

- From Brighton Speedway

HOLLAND: WHELEN MODIFIED TOUR RETURNING TO HOLLAND IN 2006

Holland, NY - For the first time since the 2001 season, the thunder of the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour will echo in the hills around Holland Speedway.

NASCAR's original racing division will visit the Western New York oval on Saturday, July 29, as Paul Graff Tire presents the NASCAR Whelan Modifed Tour 100. Though Modifieds have never been part of the weekly program at Holland, they have had a significant history with special events at the Southern Erie County speedplant.

Legendary Modified drivers such as Richie Evans, Doug Hewitt, Jeff Fuller, and Mike Stefanik have visited Holland's victory lane. Eddie Flemke, Jr. was victorious in the most recent NASCAR tour event at Holland five seasons ago.

The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour will highlight a great card of racing on the 29th of July. Joining the Modifieds on the slate will be Holland's own Pro Modified class, the IMCA Modifieds, the Cup Lites Series, the Charger division, and the INEX Legends in a National Championship qualifying race.

From Rick Mooney // Holland Speedway

Tracy / NASCAR article in the Globe

A story in today's Globe & Mail discusses why Paul Tracy is leaning toward staying in Champ Cars.

It also contains an interesting comment about why NASCAR hasn't brought one of its touring divisions to Canada as of yet.

"The sticking point for NASCAR is simple: It wants the promoter of the Canadian race to pay all the teams' expenses as well as put up the prize money. The race promoters in Mexico City signed a similar deal to land its Busch Series race.

"Montreal is pegged as a front-runner in the NASCAR sweepstakes, although a Craftsman Truck Series race in Calgary sponsored by Molson and Coors may be a dark horse."

And speaking of NASCAR & Canada. Remember last fall how those Canadian Tire flyers you got with the weekend papers were chock full of racing goodies and even the odd NASCAR logo? But not anymore.

Sure, you might see the odd "HEMI" hat now and then, but the racing stuff has pretty much disappeared. And I haven't seen a NASCAR logo in there for months.

Bourque on track

INSIDE TRACK EXCLUSIVE // FROM ITMN 10.03

Canadian political junkies will know about Pierre Bourque. The Ottawa resident’s site, Bourque Newswatch (www.bourque.org), is one of the most popular of all Canadian websites, featuring a mix of political scoops, news headlines and off-beat stories.

What you may not know about him, however, is that he’s also an accomplished racer – with a history of road racing success from the late ‘70s to the early ‘90s – and that he’s hoping to get back into the sport on the stock car side of things.To that end, he recently participated in several racing schools south of the border, including stints at the well-known Finish Line Racing School (in New Smyrna Beach, FL), the Buck Baker School, and the Fast Track School at Rockingham, NC’s North Carolina Motor Speedway.

Beyond just his school experiences, Bourque – with the support of Full Metal Minerals, a Vancouver-based gold company with vast Alaskan holdings – has embarked on an aggressive ARCA-testing schedule, aimed at gaining experience for potential U.S. speedway outings in 2006.

He recently took part in an open test at Nashville Superspeedway, which also featured reigning ARCA champ Frank Kimmel, Rusty Wallace’s son Steve Wallace, Bobby Gerhart and Robert Yates Racing driver Matt McCall.

According to Bourque, he turned almost 70 laps behind the wheel of one of Fast Track school owner Andy Hillenburg’s 810 HP Pontiacs. His times, in the low 32-second range, would put him mid-pack in the race, said Hillenburg.

Of the test, Bourque said, “Overall, I am very pleased, given this was my first time in this car with this kind of power on this kind of track with this kind of competition. I would like to thank Full Metal Minerals for their support of my pre-season testing program.”

It's back to the future for the Montreal ChampCar event

A few weeks ago, I posted about my attempt to purchase tickets for this summer's Montreal ChampCar race. In short, they laughed in my ear, which led me to think that Normand Legault's group might not have been planning to promote the heck out of the event.

It was about that time that I started to hear that former event promoter Alan Labrosse would be coming back onto the scene.

At first, Labrosse pretended not to know what I was talking about when I asked him about the rumour. But after a few minutes chatting, he all but confirmed what was happening when I ended up giving him every CASCAR phone number in my address book.

SPEEDTV's David Phillips went public with the story on Saturday at Long Beach....

LABROSSE IN, LEGAULT OUT
Alan Labrosse, who promoted the Montreal Molson Indy Champ Car races from 2002-2004, has taken over the promotion of this year's event from Normand Legault. Legault, long-time promoter of the Canadian Grand Prix at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, ran the Champ Car race there last year. The '05 Molson Indy attracted disappointing crowds and prompted widespread rumors Legault had deliberately "sabotaged" the race day attendance in the hopes of replacing the Champ Car event with either an Indy Racing League and/or NASCAR Busch Series event.