Wednesday, November 30, 2005

Peter Thomson becomes the 2005 Canadian Rally Champion


Courtesy the Canadian Rally Championship

Bancroft (Ontario), November 27, 2005 – The 2005 Canadian Rally Championship hosted its final and decisive round this weekend in Bancroft, Ontario with the presentation of the Tall Pines Rally. The highly exciting event saw Toronto, Ontario’s Peter Thompson – who traded its Subaru for a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 8 for this final round – finish in third place to become the new national rally champion.

A stunning surprise came however from legendary rally driver John Buffum, a multi North American rally champion, who skilfully avoided all the pitfalls on the snow covered country roads to clinch the victory, scoring a record 43rd triumph in the Canadian Championship. This victory also gives Buffum’s co-driver Nathalie Richard the North American title. The St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec’s Richard had already claimed the Canadian co-driver title last year.

One of the rally favourites, Quebec’s Antoine L’Estage was running in second place when the right front wheel hub broke during the 6th special stage, forcing L’Estage to retire and ending all his hopes of beating Thomson in the title chase.

American Matthew Iorio finished second, less than 20 seconds from Buffum. It was the third time in four events that Iorio was finishing in second position. Frank Sprongl, the driver of a Suzuki Swift + was third overall when he arrived too early at the last checkpoint of the event and was given a four-minute time penalty. The incident promoted Thomson to third place, scoring the two championship points he needed to claim the 2005 title. The Toronto driver enjoyed an impressive and successful season, taking two wins and finishing all the events in the top 4.

Quebecers Jean-Paul Pérusse and Frédéric Labrie completed the top six, finishing ahead of Martin Donnelly of Ontario, Americans Jake Himes and John Cassidy, and the top rookie, Robert MacKenzie of Ontario. Twenty-three of the 40 teams that took the start of the Tall Pines bravely made it to the finish.

Peter Thompson is first on the final points’ table with a total of 62, followed by Antoine L'Estage (60), Matthew Iorio (55), John Cassidy (36), Frank Sprongl (35) and Joël Levac (23). The following three drivers - Buffum, Nichols and Pérusse – are all tied at 20 points. The overall co-driver title goes to Rod Hendricksen and Subaru claims the constructors’ championship. The scoring in the various categories and all other information about rally competitions in Canada can be found on the web site of the Canadian Association of Rally Sport at http://www.carsrally.ca/

The Canadian Rally Championship concluded its 49th season of competition with the Tall Pines. The 2006 season will kick off February 4, 2006 in Maniwaki, Quebec with the presentation of the Perce-Neige.

Final standings, Tall Pines (for complete results, please check http://www.rallyscoring.com/):

1) John Buffum - Nathalie Richard (Hyundai Tiburon 4WD) - 1h54'17"
2) Matt Iorio - Ole Holter (Subaru Impreza WRX) - 1h54'36"
3) Peter Thomson - Rod Hendricksen (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo.8) - 2h02'10"
4) Frank Sprongl - Dan Sprongl (Suzuki Swift +) - 2h02'33"
5) Jean-Paul Pérusse - Marcel-Paul Raymond (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo.7) - 2h02'42"
6) Frédéric Labrie - Robert Labrie (Subaru Impreza WRX) - 2h10'23"
7) Martin Donnelly - Robin Fleguel (Subaru Impreza WRX) - 2h12'43"
8) Jake Himes - Matti Himes (Mazda RX-7) - 2h13'25"
9) John Cassidy - Dave Getchell (Subaru Impreza RS) - 2h13'42"
10) Robert MacKenzie - Jeff Hagan (Honda Civic) - 2h21'17''

Competition Speed Racing Engines jumps on board with PMRA

By Bruce F. Mehlenbacher

November 28 2005 - Jordan Station, ON – The Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA), www.ProModifiedRacing.com, is pleased to have the participation of Competition Speed Racing Engines to post a contingency award at each series event in 2006.

“We have been behind the PMRA right from its inception,” explained Terry Vince, owner and operator of Competition Speed Racing Engines. “The program is simple, the teams utilize our services and they cash in. It’s a win-win situation!”

Competition Speed Racing Engines, http://www.competitionspeed.com/, is located at 2390 South Service Road in Jordan Station, Ontario. Owner Terry Vince has been building engines for all types of motorsports for 14 years, and specializes in complete assemblies for the hardcore racer. In 2005, this new location has allowed the opportunity for access to complete dyno services.

“We see this Competition Speed Racing Engines program as the first of many more to come,” stated Bruce F. Mehlenbacher, Director of Operations of the PMRA. “Terry’s company will pay a cash award to the low qualifier at each of the PMRA events in 2006 and double up if they go on to win the event. This is the kind of racer incentive our teams need.”

At Competition Speed Racing Engines a knowledgeable staff will assist in the fine tuning of all engine packages. The firm sells as well as works with the customer to finish each project. See Terry and his group at all major races throughout Ontario in 2006.

CASCAR: BEAUCHAMP & THE MOPAR PARTS TEAM CELEBRATE SOLID SEASON, NOW LOOKING FORWARD TO THREE MORE!

Ron Beauchamp Jr. and the Mopar Parts team began the 2005 CASCAR racing season looking for improvement. They found it at race number one and all season long, culminating with a sixth place finish in the overall Super Series standings.

With a brand new race car the Mopar team was confident but cautious heading into the racing season. By the time race number one was over they knew they were onto something good.

Ron Beauchamp Jr. claimed victory at the Mopar 250, the opening event of the season and remained one of the fastest cars at every Super Series race event. “Last winter, we built this new car step by step” said Beauchamp. “We did some significant research spent a lot of time getting it set up the way we wanted and it all came together, what a great season”.

Ron Beauchamp Jr. and Team Mopar were recognized for their accomplishments this season at the annual CASCAR Awards Banquet held recently in London, Ontario. The list of awards is impressive, they include; The Inside Track Editors choice award for Race number one at Delaware Speedway, Goodyear Belts & Hose award for the most fast race laps recorded, Fifth in the Snap On Tools “Most Laps Led award, Second in the Mopar Top Five at seasons end, and Sixth in the overall CASCAR Super Series points standings helping Dodge to the Manufacturers Cup victory.

“We sure had a much improved season” commented Beauchamp. “It was such a boost to get that first win right away, and then to back it up with solid performance all season was really important. The Mopar Parts Charger not only claimed victory at Delaware Speedway, but also at Peterborough Speedway. There were also two other podium finishes and a total of five top-five finishes, and nine top-tens. “It sure gives us a lot of inspiration for next year” stated the driver.

The long time relationship with Beauchamp Motorsports and Mopar will continue. It has been confirmed that Ron Beauchamp Jr. will be back behind the wheel for the next three seasons in the Mopar Parts Charger.

On behalf of everyone at Beauchamp Motorsports, have a wonderful holiday season; we’ll see you back at the track in 2006.

The CASCAR Super Series is the only National Stock Car Racing series with events scheduled this year at famed oval tracks including Delaware Speedway & Cayuga Speedway along with road courses and temporary street circuits like the Toronto Indy. You can keep up with the latest news on the CASCAR Super Series by logging onto the website at http://www.cascar.ca/

This release prepared by, TL Sports & Entertainment, tandt@pathcom.com

CASCAR: SATISFYING SEASON FOR BRAD GRAHAM AND THE CHALLENGER MOTOR FREIGHT/LOGEL’S AUTO PARTS DODGE TEAM

This season Brad Graham and the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Charger Dodge team took a significant step forward in their CASCAR Super Series racing program. Those accomplishments were rewarded with a fifth place overall finish in the championship standings.

Right from the beginning of the year the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Charger Dodge team was a top flight contender recording a total of nine top-ten finishes, five top-five finishes including a season best second place finish at Sun Valley Speedway in Vernon, BC. “This was a year of change for us” stated driver Brad Graham. “We moved into the new Dodge Charger and John Logel and Logel’s Auto Parts brought their support to our team and it all helped us improve our performance on the track”.

Brad Graham and the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Charger Dodge team were recognized at the recent CASCAR Awards Banquet for their accomplishments this season, they included; The competitor finishing the season fifth overall is acknowledged each year with a cash award from Jones Brown Inc. The Inside Track Editors Choice Award for their performance in Race number seven at Sun Valley Speedway. Plus, The Mopar Top Five award, Brad tied for second among Mopar drivers, a collects a $3,000 cash award. Brad’s solid performance this season also helped Dodge win the Manufacturers Cup award.


“It was definitely an exciting year for this team and I’m proud of all the guys on this team, their hard work made this possible” commented driver Brad Graham. “This team got better every single week, and we’re already working on our equipment for next season. That’s the most impressive part really, the success we had in 2005 is making us hungrier for next year. We haven’t set any specific goals yet, but a race win is certainly on the list”.


Included in 2006 plans for the team is the continued support of Logel’s Auto Parts. John Logel stated “we’re definitely back again next year. This season was great success for all of us and we’re looking forward to more next season. Brad an the entire Challenger Motor Freight team are a first class outfit, and we at Logel’s Auto Parts are very pleased to be part of the team”.

For everyone at Graham Motorsports, Happy Holidays. We’ll see you at the races next season.

The CASCAR Super Series is Canada’s only sanctioned National touring stock car racing series competing from coast to coast. CASCAR stages events at the most famous oval tracks in Canada such as Cayuga Speedway and Delaware Speedway and also competes on the temporary street circuit at the Molson Indy Toronto.

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

This release prepared by Todd Lewis, TL Sports & Entertainment, tandt@pathcom.com

CASCAR: MEYERS TRANSPORT/PETERBOROUGH HOMES/PARKVIEW HOMES DODGE TEAM ENJOY A HARD CHARGING SEASON

Bryan Cathcart had a memorable season of racing in the CASCAR Super Series with the Meyers Transport/Peterborough Homes/Parkview Homes Dodge Charger. With strong sponsor support and a top notch crew the #71 was in the mix at every event.

“All in all it was a pretty exciting year for us” stated Bryan Cathcart. “We put together a good team of guys with Bill Burns as our crew chief, Tim Ellas helped out too, and we had some good equipment. With that kind of foundation it really helps. The competition in the CASCAR Super Series is really tough”.

At the CASCAR year end awards banquet Bryan Cathcart and the Meyers Transport/Peterborough Homes/Parkview Homes team were recognized for a significant achievement this past season. The Fast Eddie Racewear “Hard Charger” award is awarded to the Super Series competitor that gains the most positions in feature races during the season. Cathcart was the 2005 winner after gaining a total of 61 positions during the season. The aggressive pursuit of improved position by Cathcart also helped Dodge claim their first Manufacturers Cup award for the Super Series.

“I’m very happy to be given this award, improving every weekend was our goal this year and it shows how hard we worked at it” said Cathcart. “This kind of a season also isn’t possible without all of our sponsors. They really supported us all season long”.

With the holiday season fast approaching Bryan Cathcart and the Meyers Transport/Peterborough Homes/Parkview Homes team would like to take this opportunity with you and yours all the best this holiday season. They look forward to an exciting 2006 racing season.

The CASCAR Super Series is the only National Touring Series of Stock Car Racing in Canada. All CASCAR Super Series Races can be seen on Rogers Sportsnet and SPEED TV. For more information and to follow the progress of Bryan Cathcart and the CASCAR Super Series log onto www.cascar.ca

This release prepared by Todd Lewis, TL Sports & Entertainment, tandt@pathcom.com

I.S.M.A. SUPER MODIFIEDS, SAMMUTS RETURN TO DELAWARE

September 29, 2006 Will Be First ISMA Delaware Appearance in Over 20 Years

Delaware, ON (November 30, 2005): The I.S.M.A. (International Super Modified Association) Super Modifieds will be returning to Delaware Speedway in 2006 for the first time in over 20 years. The event, set for Friday, September 29, 2006, will serve as a homecoming of sorts for local I.S.M.A. star, Mark Sammut of London.

“Everybody’s pumped right up, ourselves included,” said Sammut of the I.S.M.A. return to Delaware. “It’ll be great to have a show at home. Last time I ran at Delaware would have been in 1996 when I won with the Can-Am Midgets. Hopefully we can do that again and win one for the home crowd.”

Mark and his father, Tony, are not entirely sure the exact year that I.S.M.A. last ran at Delaware Speedway, though both guess, “Either 1983 or 1984. Over twenty years anyway.”

The return of I.S.M.A. to Delaware Speedway in 2006 seems fitting, as next season will mark the track’s 55th anniversary. At one time, Super Modifieds used to run weekly at Delaware, which is partly how the Sammuts became involved.

“I had a ‘Super’ for one season, and then went to a Late Model in ’68 or ’69,” said Tony. “I wasn’t very successful so I packed it in. Previously I had worked with John Norton’s Super Modified running Delaware, Flamboro and Nilestown. After I quit that I went to work with Harvey Lennox who ran the London Machinery Car.”

Following in the footsteps of his dad, Mark grew up around racing, specifically Super Modifieds: “When he was a few months old, we used to run Oswego and Delaware and we took him along,” Tony said.

Mark, who began his racing career with go karts and Can-Am Midgets before progressing to the Super Modifieds, will be entering his eighth season racing with I.S.M.A. It’s been at least that long that the Sammuts have been hoping for a Delaware date.

“I have been asking for seven years for I.S.M.A. to go back to Delaware,” said Tony. “I’m thrilled about it.”

The I.S.M.A. Super Modifieds travel around the Northeastern United States, including stops at tracks in New York, Connecticut, Michigan, Ohio, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and New Hampshire. As of this writing, the Delaware Speedway show was the only Canadian date on the 2006 schedule.

“We couldn’t be more excited about being a part of the I.S.M.A. schedule,” said Delaware Speedway General Manager Kevin Bulmer. “All through this past year, we got asked – by fans, sponsors and racers – about when and if I.S.M.A. was coming back. We were asked about I.S.M.A. more than any of the other touring groups combined, and I can’t thank Mark and Tony Sammut enough for helping us get that date.”

Advanced tickets for the I.S.M.A. race will go on sale in early December and will be available both through the track and at the PartSource store at 618 Wharncliffe Road in London. A separate announcement will be made once tickets become available.

Delaware Speedway’s full 2006 tentative event schedule should be released within the next week.

More information about the I.S.M.A. Super Modifieds is available at www.ismasupers.com.

For more information contact: Kevin Bulmer, Delaware Speedway, (519) 652-5068 ext. 202 or kevin@delawarespeedway.com // Photos of Mark Sammut of London courtesy I.S.M.A. 2006

Tuesday, November 29, 2005

CASCAR: Great videos from the Robinsons / JRA

Joel Robinson has passed along a few video files that were run at the CASCAR Super Series / Sportsman Series banquet on Saturday night in London.

The first is a compilation video that Joel prepares for every banquet, featuring race action and shots of everyone that makes up the CASCAR community.

Click here to watch the 2005 CASCAR Banquet Video. (NOTE: This file is 7.5 Mb)

The second video comes from the Robinsons' final show of the season, from Kawartha. It includes footage from the 2005 season as well as some scenes from Don Thomson's incredible five-season CASCAR Super Series National Championship streak.

Click here to watch the video honouring Don Thomson's Super Series National Championship dynasty. (NOTE: This file is 2 Mb)

Thanks again to Joel and Jim Robinson for letting me show these videos on this site.

ALMS: BMW ANNOUNCES RETURN TO AMERICAN LE MANS SERIES WITH TEAM PTG

BRASELTON, GA - Returning to the stage where it successfully battled for GT glory in the early days of the American Le Mans Series, BMW has confirmed its full factory re-entry into North America's premier sports car series for 2006. It is the latest manufacturer to enter the American Le Mans Series, which opens its season March 18 at the 54th annual Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring.

"Today we welcome The Ultimate Driving Machine back to the ultimate professional sports car racing series - and we could not be more pleased," said Scott Atherton, president and CEO of the American Le Mans Series. "This announcement fulfills one of the 'predictions' that was referenced during my State of the Series address in September. This continues the string of positive announcements and builds upon the momentum that has been growing within the American Le Mans Series over the past year."

BMW represents a piece of the foundation on which the American Le Mans Series was built in 1999. An active member of the series both on and off the track, the marque has a rich history of GT racing with its M3 and M3 GTR, and also in prototype racing.

BMW will go down in series history as the winner of the first race in the history of the American Le Mans Series. JJ Lehto, Tom Kristensen and Jorg Muller piloted a BMW V12 LMR to victory in the 1999 Twelve Hours of Sebring. That same year, BMW became the first team from the American Le Mans Series to win the overall championship at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. In all, BMW teams have won 15 times in the series - nine in GT2 and six in LMP1.

Some of the most recognizable names in sports car racing have driven for BMW: Lehto, Kristensen, Hans Stuck, Boris Said and Bill Auberlen, to name a few. Now five years after it last won in the American Le Mans Series, BMW is back.

"The American Le Mans Series represents authentic, world-class sports car racing that is a perfect fit for BMW's authentic, world-class road cars," Atherton said. "It has been a mutually frustrating separation, but with today's announcement we are all back together in the right place."

By returning to GT, BMW will renew its battle with fellow German manufacturer, Porsche, along with competing against the factory-supported Panoz Esperante effort of Multimatic Motorsports Team Panoz and other teams to come. For the first three years of the American Le Mans Series, Porsche and BMW went head-to-head for class honors. BMW won the 2001 GT manufacturers' championship, and BMW teams captured two of the first three team championships in class.


Team PTG will field two factory-backed BMW M3s in the 2006 American Le Mans Series' new GT2S class for sedan-style cars.
Click here for Hi-Res
For its return, Team PTG (Prototype Technology Group) will carry the BMW banner. Team PTG has a place in American Le Mans Series lore, having won the series' first GT team championship behind a stable of drivers including Stuck, Said, Johannes van Overbeek, Brian and Peter Cunningham, and Brian Simo.

"BMW of North America's racing operations, run by Tom Milner's Prototype Technology Group, is a textbook example of the type of program the American Le Mans Series is all about," Atherton said. "They represent the addition of another very professional team with manufacturer support behind them and top level drivers."

"In 2006, BMW fans will see more M3s racing in professional sports car championships than ever before," said Larry Koch, M Brand Manager for BMW of North America, LLC. "With BMW Team PTG ensuring that 'the car is the star' in the American Le Mans Series . we are anticipating another stellar racing season."

Team PTG, BMW's primary U.S. motorsports research and development team for the manufacturer's M3 model, will go down in history again in 2006. The two-car effort will be the first of what is expected to be many entrants in the new GT2S class, a subcategory of GT2. Created by IMSA to encourage passenger car participation for sedan-style cars, all GT2S teams will compete for GT2 points and podium positions in the American Le Mans Series, but they will not be eligible for the 24 Hours of Le Mans.


BMW and Team PTG will receive tire support from long-time partner Yokohama for the 2006 American Le Mans Series season.
Click here for Hi-Res
"This is a historic occasion for everyone at the American Le Mans Series and IMSA," said Tim Mayer, IMSA's COO. "Expanding our grid and increasing the level of competition in our fields is one of our primary goals. It doesn't get much better than bringing back BMW and Team PTG to our series in this capacity."

As was the case in the early days of the series, Yokohama will be the tire supplier for BMW and Team PTG. It was a partnership that worked extremely well in the past.

"We are very excited to renew our motorsports relationship with BMW in the American Le Mans Series," said Robert Dole, Yokohama Product Promotions Manager. "Using the ADVAN race tire, we look forward to building on our past successes with BMW/Team PTG and once again giving the loyal BMW fans something to cheer about in ALMS competition."

All three will return as a team at the American Le Mans Series' Wheels Down Winter Test Days at Sebring International Raceway on Jan. 23-25.

"Along with their long-time partner, Yokohama, we are confident BMW will pick up where they left off with their cars challenging for the GT2 podium at all our events," Atherton said.

For the past two seasons, Team PTG has competed in the Rolex Series' GT class, reeling off 17 victories in 26 events and winning the 2004 manufacturer's championship. That series' decision to allow tube-framed GT chassis with a bolt-on body didn't meet the mindset of BMW to directly market its wares.

Instead, the marque opted for the American Le Mans Series, the only form of motorsport in the world that promotes diversity and imagination among its entries.

"Over the past few months we have announced new teams, new manufacturers, new sponsors, new events in important markets and the best overall television package in American Le Mans Series history," Atherton said. "BMW has recognized all of this and has again embraced the American Le Mans Series as the best fit for its business plan. BMW rejoins the host of other premium brands that have been actively benefiting from the unmatched ROI and genuine sports car competition the American Le Mans Series provides."

BMW's reach is a global one. Because it sells cars all over the world, it has developed one of the largest followings in the world from car owners. BMW will be one of many manufacturers to hold car corrals at American Le Mans Series events in 2006. Owners and fans were the most active group the series saw when BMW competed in the American Le Mans Series, and its return to the series will only strengthen that following.

"The biggest winners today are BMW fans. They have missed the American Le Mans Series and we have missed them," Atherton said. "We received more emails and letters from frustrated BMW fans than all other owners groups combined. But today we put everyone back where they have always wanted to be. We couldn't be happier about this news and I know BMW fans feel the same way."

- From ALMS

Monday, November 28, 2005

CASCAR Banquet impressions

I attended the CASCAR Super Series / Sportsman banquet on Saturday night in London.

Near the end - after bragging about his health and libido - Tony Novotny predicted that 2006 will be the greatest year in CASCAR history.

Click here to listen to an MP3 of Novotny's speech.

Novotny's tone was markedly more upbeat and less frustrated then when I spoke to him before he went on WindTunnel a few weeks back. I believe the situation regarding the sale of CASCAR to NASCAR has taken a positive turn.

While Novotny's speech was short on specifics - as humorously noted by emcee Todd Lewis (who did a great job, btw) - there was an optimistic tone to the evening.

NASCAR's Canadian point-man Richard Buck was in attendance. And although he didn't speak publicly, he was busy all night discussing the NASCAR situation with any and all comers. The fact that Buck was away from his family for the U.S. Thanksgiving Day Weekend was very much appreciated. I spoke briefly with him after dinner and I feel better about things based on that chat.

I cannot offer specifics about the NASCAR situation, because I don't know them. But I continue to believe that NASCAR has done its due diligence on CASCAR, and that is not what is holding things up. Everyone agrees that it would have been better to announce the sale months ago, but that didn't happen.

There were several strong indications that the situation holding up the sale is very close to being resolved. It sounds like something could happen before the end of the year. I hope that is the case.

Other than that, the night got off to a slow start because a light scaffold fell over while everyone was in the outer room, during the cocktail party. The delay in getting the presentations started cut down on the length of speeches, which was a bonus.

Don Thomson made fun of himself offering the same speech every year.... as he delivered the same speech again. He did a great job and received a few standing ovations from the crowd. Five National championships in a row against such tough competition is an awesome accomplishment.

The most enthusiastic applause was given to Christina Hughes (Chrissy), who resigned from CASCAR in early June to pursue other employment. I had the pleasure of working with her for over a decade and although I will miss her, I wish her nothing but happiness and satisfaction in her future endeavours. She is a great person and she did a great job. It was very nice for her to see that everyone in that room holds her in such high regard.

Everyone was also very happy for the DaimlerChrysler / MOPAR / Dodge contingent, who were on hand to accept their first-ever Manufacturers' Award. They have been one of the series' strongest supporters and they paid out $120,000 in contingency money to their teams in 2006. Wow.

Ron Beauchamp Jr. was smiling as he confirmed that he has extended his contract to drive under the MOPAR banner for another three years. Ron's timing in winning two events in 2006 was impeccable! Congratulations to all involved. Scott Steckly, it was announced, will be switching to a Dodge Charger in '06.

Dion Verhoeven was on hand to accept the 2005 Sportsman Series championship, as was series rookie Ron Lethbridge. TV star Tara MacLeod gave a thoughtful speech as the '05 Super Series rookie winner.

Joel Robinson's video was great once again, summarizing the season and offering lots of smiles. Joel said he'll send me the video to put on the site once he gets a few minutes. He also ran a short clip on Thomson's five championships, which he also might pass along.

Friday, November 25, 2005

DRAG RACING: Grisdale Racing Products sponsors PMRA Best Appearing Car in 2006


DUNDAS, ON – The Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA) is pleased to announce that Grisdale Racing Products is to sponsor the Best Appearing Car at each series event in 2006.

“Grisdale's focus is to further expand and service the needs of drag racing competitors, and hot rod and street machine enthusiasts,” explained Grisdale’s Drag Racing & Performance Sales Coordinator, Paul Polly.“ The Pro Modified Racing Association will help us with our goal. The series has high profile teams, they draw great crowds, and we are very excited about our involvement.”

With a strong and solid reputation in the auto racing and aftermarket industry, Grisdale Enterprises Inc., is a multi-dimensional company that has been faithfully serving its customers for 25 years. The Grisdale Racing Products Division is a one-stop supplier for high performance and hard-core racing components.

“The Grisdale Racing Products Best Appearing Car Award is great way for them to support the series and most important the teams,” said Tim Miller, Media Director of the PMRA. “We think it’s a great way for Grisdale’s to promote their drag race components.”

A complete line of racing products for the entry-level enthusiast to the full-time professional racer is available from Grisdale Racing Products. It carries a full line of fiberglass and aluminum racecar bodies, frame and suspension components, brake systems, wheels, tires, safety equipment (including Nomex suits), heat shielding materials, infra red pyrometers, and data acquisition products. Grisdale also specializes in driveline systems, on-board timing equipment, as well a full line of gauges, engine and ignition components.

Started late in 2004 and entering its second year of operation, the PMRA ran five events in 2005 at four Ontario, Quebec, and New York locations, with a different winner at each track. The PMRA will provide drag race fans the opportunity to see and hear popular Pro Modified racing in the class known as “the world’s fastest door slammers.”

At present, PMRA officials are negotiating with several eighth and quarter-mile tracks in Ontario, Quebec, Michigan and New York with the plan of presenting a six -event drag racing series in 2006.

The PMRA is a self-governing organization with its own set of technical and safety rules based on the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) Pro Modified division. Cars in the PMRA capture the true spirit of hot rodding, and the class offers a widely diverse group of racecars with different types of 2000-horsepower engines propelling the cars down the quarter-mile in the 6.20-second range at 230 mph.

For more information contact Bruce F. Mehlenbacher

ALSTAR: Sponsor announcements

SHALLOW LAKE, ON – The SHOULDICE STONE ALSTAR SUPER SERIES would like to welcome WISECO PISTONS, a new contingency sponsor for the 2006 season.

The winner of the Wiseco Piston Award will be selected, by a draw, at the 2006 year-end awards presentation.

The series would also like to announce the return of Inside Track Motorsport News at a contingency sponsor for 2006. Inside Track has been a proud sponsor of the Shouldice ALSTAR Series for several seasons.

Jack n' Jill's Open House this Saturday (Nov. 26)

MIDLAND, ON - Jack n Jill's annual open house is Saturday, November 26. You won't want to miss this! Click here for directions to their Midland, Ontario location.

HJC Floater suits at an unbelievable price of $249.00 plus taxes. That is a savings of $140.00!!

8,000 watt gas power generator reg $5895.00 while quantities last only $2195.00

Woody studs with washer reg $3.99 each, Saturday only $2.49 each.

Full Face helmets $99.99 taxes in!!

Bring in the family for free face painting, coffee, hot chocolate, other goodies and hourly giveaways.

There will be also be a BBQ with all the proceeds going to the Georgian Bay Snow Riders.

Need info? Call toll free 877-527-4386

See you on Saturday!

Jill

Wednesday, November 23, 2005

CAR HELP CANADA: Stay safe in snowy conditions

Much of Ontario is expecting its first significant snowfall tonight and that means the usual flurry of needless accidents on our byways and highways.

Car Help Canada, a non-profit consumer association representing motorists right across the Great White North, offers the following tips for anyone who absolutely must drive during the coming snowstorm:

Go slow! Driving too fast for the conditions is the cause of most accidents. Brake, steer and accelerate slowly. A two second separation between vehicles in the normal rule of thumb in clear conditions, but in adverse weather you should remain at least four seconds behind the nearest car ahead;

Practice emergency braking in a vacant lot to get a feel for how your vehicle will behave in the snow. Vehicles with ABS brakes create a rapid pulsing sensation on the brake pedal, which can surprise drivers not accustomed to the system;

Stop, look and steer. In most impending collisions, brake first, look at where you want the vehicle to go and then steer in that direction. All too often drivers fixate on the object they are about to hit, causing the vehicle to follow the drivers eyes directly to the target they should be avoiding.

In a skid, take your foot off the accelerator, put the car in neutral, look where you want to go and steer in that direction;

Instead of focusing on the car immediately in front of you, look down the road for potential trouble ahead;

Consider taking an advanced driving program at a qualified skid school to hone your skills;

Watch out for ruts in the snow or icy patches hidden under snow. In slushy conditions, be sure to periodically check for snow build-up around the wheels which can affect steering;

Be extra cautious when approaching bridges, overpasses and shady areas which freeze sooner and can remain frozen longer;

If you do get stuck or stranded in your vehicle don’t panic. If there is no help nearby stay with your vehicle for safety and warmth and wait for help to arrive.

If you remain in your vehicle, run the engine sparingly and be careful of exhaust fumes. For fresh air, slightly open a window away from the wind;

Tires are the most important safety feature on your car and a good set of winter radials is your best defence against slippery streets, adding as much as 30% better traction over so-called "all season" tires;

Windshield wipers should be changed every spring and fall at the very least, but if your wipers are chattering or smearing have them replaced right away. Specially designed winter blades can offer better clearing in the cold by adding a Teflon coating and sealing the moving parts in a protective rubber housing which keeps ice and dirt out;

Top up your windshield fluid tank with a winter blend designed to resist freezing. Always carry an extra jug in the trunk in case you run out in the middle of a storm;

A good snow brush and ice scraper are essential tools, but be sure to use them properly. Clear the ice from all windows and mirrors, and remove all the snow from your car, especially the hood and roof;

For interview requests and more tips on safe winter driving, contact Car Help Canada at 416-760-3397 (office) or 416-988-7345 (cell).

EDMONTON INT'L RACEWAY: Awards Presentation

Edmonton Int’l Raceway (EIR) celebrates its 2005 Champions on Saturday, November 26, 2005. A most unique Awards Presentation held during shopping hours for everyone to see. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Late Models will be on display and the top 3 Champions in each EIR Race Class will be suited in their tuxedos as they are honoured for their 2005 racing achievements.

NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Racer #33 Jeremy Lapainis won the EIR Track Championship and also won 11th place in Division II of the NASCAR Series and was presented with his award in Nashville on November 5th.

We invite you to attend this exciting event. The racers will be available for interviews, Kevin Nevalainen, Senior Executive with NASCAR will be attending, Ron & Loretta Thiering, Promoters of EIR will be available for interviews.

NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY RACE SERIES – TOP 3
#33 - Jeremy Lapainis – Airdrie
#07 - Greg Moir – Stony Plain
#4 – Rob Dowler – Edmonton

K-ROCK THUNDER CARS – TOP 3
#99 – Lee Krause – Edmonton
#13 – Ray Verstraete – Edmonton
#10 – Roy Wallace – Edmonton

STEEN HANSEN SPEEDWAY SUPER MOTO - CHAMPION
#15 – Dennis Hansen – Edmonton

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

LORETTA THIERING
Phone: 467-9276
Cell: 497-8262 U-PULL-IT CLAIMER CARS – TOP 3
#50 – Marc Bouchard – Edmonton
#17 – Mark Rogers – Spruce Grove
#7 – Mike Elhard – Edmonton

HIT TO PASS CHAMPION
#4 Jim Mack – Ardrossan

IMCA MODIFIEDS – TOP 3
#50 – Trevor Boys – Calgary
#8 – Mitch Lauzon – Edmonton
#18 – Rob Leier – Red Deer

ALBERTA OUTLAW MODIFIEDS
Tied - #11 John Jones – Clive, Alberta & #15 Karey Stular – Ardrossan

TSN: The Indy... er, Honda Racing League?

TSN.ca Staff // 11/21/2005 10:40:47 AM

Honda will apparently have to service and supply every team in the Indy Racing League in 2006. According to a report on SpeedTV.com, Toyota is expected to confirm this week that it is pulling out of the open wheel series one year earlier than anticipated.

"I don't have anything I can confirm for you, that's pretty much where it's at," Jim Aust, president and CEO of Toyota Racing Development told Robin Miller of SpeedTV.com over the weekend.

Sources say Toyota informed the IRL it was not planning on doing any engine development next year, it's final one with the open-wheel series. Barnhart then approached Honda about the possibility of servicing and supplying all of its teams in 2006.

Penske Racing, one of Toyota's top teams, has already announced a switch to Honda power for 2006 while Chip Ganassi was widely expected to make the move to Honda as well.

Honda has already committed to supplying engines to the IRL through 2009 but it was planning on being the sole supplier starting in 2007. General Motors pulled out of the series at the end of the 2005 season.

Toyota is rumored to be ramping up its efforts to go NASCAR racing in 2007. It is currently competing in the Craftsman Truck Series.

Tuesday, November 22, 2005

Tara MacLeod and Central Merchant Services Team Featured at Performance Racing Industry Trade Show

Haines City, FL – Tara MacLeod, the 2005 CASCAR Super Series PowerWater Rookie of the Year Champion and her #37 Central Merchant Services Ford Taurus will be featured at the Performance Racing Industry Trade Show in Orlando, Florida December 1 to 3.


The Performance Racing Industry Trade Show annually attracts over 45,000 members of the racing industry from 40 countries. With more than 1,300 companies exhibiting in 3,900 booths it is the gateway to the worldwide racing marketplace.

“Wow, PRI is the world’s largest auto racing trade show,” explained MacLeod. “I’m really excited. Central Merchant Services has given Kerry (Micks) and me the opportunity to show off our equipment to the who’s who of motorsport.”

MacLeod's Ford Taurus racecar is prepared by Micks Motorsports of Mt. Albert, Ontario, under the leadership of Kerry Micks, veteran CASCAR Super Series competitor and this car can be viewed in the Central Merchant Services display.

"The PRI Show will give Central Merchant Services a perfect opportunity to introduce Tara, her race car and our corporate services to the racing fraternity,” stated Kevin Pankow, CEO and President of Central Merchant Services. "We are very proud of the team’s accomplishments in 2005.”

Central Merchant Services serves retail, home-based, mail order, phone order, internet, restaurant and other service-based businesses. Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, debit and checks can all be accommodated with its credit card machines and software, offering competitive rates and reliable service.

The Performance Racing Industry Trade Show provides a professional business atmosphere where racing retailers, race engine builders, race car fabricators, race engineers and WDs can conduct business face to face with suppliers, preview next year’s hottest new racing products, make buying decisions, and have new lines in inventory for the start of the next racing season.

Under the team banner of MacLeod Racing, http://www.taramacleod.com/, 32-year old Tara MacLeod has been a strong competitor on the Ontario short-tracks for the past 10 years, with several awards to her credit.

She has always wanted to step up her racing career, and is very enthused about competing in the entire coast-to-coast 12-race CASCAR Super Series and 2005 marked her first year in CASCAR.

Central Merchant Services, http://www.centralmerchant.net/, has a nationwide network that works through its processing banks to provide merchant accounts for credit card processing needs. Central Merchant Services has become one of the most competitive companies in the industry.

Central Merchant Services serves retail, home-based, mail order, phone order, internet, restaurant and other service-based businesses. Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, debit and checks can all be accommodated with its credit card machines and software, offering competitive rates and reliable service.

CASCAR, http://www.cascar.com/, is Canada's top level of stock car racing with a twelve race national schedule that includes the diversity of short oval tracks, road and street course racing. The series is home to Canada's top race teams and drivers, and is renowned for its fierce competition and truly exciting on-track action. CASCAR has a membership of over 150 race teams across the country, and also operates regional race series' in Eastern and Western Canada. Featuring North American-based, fiberglass-bodied Chrysler Intrepid and Charger, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Monte Carlos, and Pontiac Grand Prix cars that closely resemble the various makes street cars, these full-bodies racers tip the scales at 2850 pounds. From the streets of Molson Indy Toronto to Canada's premier oval track facilities, CASCAR provides race fans with an awesome show of speed, driving talent and professionalism.

MacLeod Racing is sponsored by Central Merchant Services, ATA Motorsports, Castrol Canada, Degil Safety Products Inc., FXR Racing, Instant Custom Signs, KP Graphics, RV Warehouse and The Trailer Shop in the CASCAR Super Series.

For more information, contact Bruce F. Mehlenbacher mehlenbacher@TaraMacLeod.com

NASCAR Canada Inks Deals with Procter & Gamble and CGC Inc.


TORONTO (November 21, 2005) – NASCAR Canada today announced multi-year agreements with Procter & Gamble (P&G) and CGC Inc., making both companies Official Partners of NASCAR in Canada.

The three-year deal with P&G’s Old Spice brand provides category exclusivity for its deodorant, anti-perspirant, soap, cologne and body wash products, while the four-year sponsorship agreement with CGC Inc. makes CGC the official and exclusive building products supplier of NASCAR in Canada. Both P&G and CGC will use their affiliation with NASCAR in Canada in a variety of in-market initiatives, including a customized media campaign tailored around broadcasts of NASCAR races.

In addition, P&G will incorporate NASCAR imagery and logo on select Old Spice products, packaging and point of sale materials in Canada, and will also launch a limited edition deodorant product featuring NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series star Tony Stewart.

"We are thrilled to have Old Spice as the official NASCAR partner in the personal cleansing and anti-perspirant/deodorant categories," said Fiona Stevenson, Procter & Gamble Category Brand Manager for the personal cleansing and anti-perspirant/deodorant categories in Canada. "There is a very strong overlap between the Old Spice consumer base and the NASCAR Canadian fan base, which has paved the way for some exciting co-marketing activities that we will bring to market this year."

“CGC is excited about our relationship with NASCAR, the fastest growing sport in North America,” said Pat Lisson, Director of Marketing – Canada, CGC Inc. “NASCAR fans fit our demographic and customer profile very well and we view this as a great opportunity to build our brands and create awareness.”

These two agreements complement existing U.S. relationships. CGC’s parent company, USG Corporation, is also an official partner of NASCAR in the U.S. and the title sponsor of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series USG SHEETROCK® 400 race at Chicagoland Speedway in July.

“NASCAR Canada is thrilled to enter into long-term relationships with two best-in-class Canadian partners who will help promote and grow the sport,” said Randy Paul, Managing Director, NASCAR Canada. “These relationships showcase the power and relevancy of the NASCAR brand in Canada.”

NASCAR has a strong fan base in Canada with 5.8 million fans (one out of four Canadian adults). NASCAR is the No. 1 televised motorsport in Canada. TSN’s coverage of the 2005 Daytona 500 attracted a national average minute audience of 506,000 viewers*, making it the most watched motorsport race ever in TSN’s 21-year history.

Research shows that NASCAR fans are the most brand conscious among all professional sports fans. NASCAR fans are three times more likely to purchase the products of NASCAR sponsors compared to companies not involved in the sport.

About P&G:
P&G Beauty sells more than 130 different brands in over 180 countries worldwide that touch and improve lives daily. P&G Beauty had more than $19 billion in global sales in fiscal year 2004/05, making it one of the world’s largest beauty companies. The global leading beauty company at mass, P&G Beauty brands include: Old Spice®, Pantene®, Olay®, Cover Girl®, Infusium 23®, Max Factor®, Herbal Essences®, Crest Whitestrips®, Hugo Boss®, Wella®, Clairol Nice ’n Easy®, Gillette®, and Head and Shoulders®. Please visit http://www.pg.com/ for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G Beauty and its brands.

About CGC Inc.:
CGC Inc. is a leading marketer, manufacturer and distributor of gypsum wallboard products, interior finishing materials and suspended acoustical ceilings in Canada. We produce wallboard panels under the renowned SHEETROCK® Brand. Today, after decades of product development and market expansion, CGC is recognized as a key player in Canada's dynamic building materials industry, supplying innovative wall and ceiling products to the new construction and repair and remodel markets of the residential, commercial and institutional sectors. For more information about CGC Inc., visit the CGC website at www.cgcinc.com

About NASCAR Canada:
NASCAR Canada supports the continued growth of the NASCAR fan base and further extends the popular NASCAR brand in Canada through sponsorship and licensing opportunities, marketing initiatives, multi-platform media programs and grassroots projects. Established in June 2004, NASCAR Canada is a joint relationship between NASCAR and TSN, and is operated by TSN Events.

-30-

Monday, November 21, 2005

SHOULDICE ALSTAR: Changes for 2006

From the Shouldice ALSTAR Series:

The SHOULDICE STONE ALSTAR Drivers meeting took place at the Blue Mountain Inn – Collingwood, Ontario, with a packed house. The SHOULDICE STONE ALSTAR SERIES will take on a new look for 2006.

With recent developments the SHOULDICE ALSTAR RACING SERIES will not be touring as it traditionally has in the past. After contacting all participating tracks ALSTAR was unable to receive any commitments from the speedways.

With unprecedented sponsorship by SHOULDICE DESIGNER STONE of Shallow Lake, Ontario, and the backing of all top ALSTAR late model race teams. As well as series associate sponsors including – CRC, Quaker State, Rain-X, Spira Fire Protection, WIX, Five Star Stock Car Bodies, Hoosier Race Tires, and McColl Racing Enterprises - the 2006 SHOULDICE STONE ALSTAR SERIES will continue with a series of "Super Weekend Events."

These events will be sure to please our ALSTAR Race fans need for speed, as well as increase the number of competitors and competition in this already highly recognized series. Teams will be competing for far greater purses then ever before.

These "SHOULDICE STONE ALSTAR Super Series Weekend Events" will all take place Sauble Speedway home of the ALSTAR Series, located in Sauble Beach, Ontario, Canada. This fan friendly racing facility will create three race experience weekends designed to entertain the race fan from the minute they get to the track. Including headline pre-race entertainment, autograph sessions, and tons of door handle to door handle SHOULDICE ALSTAR Super Series racing action.

Details of the SHOULDICE ALSTAR SERIES for 2006 will be released on http://www.alstarseries.com/ in the very near future.

We would like to thank all race teams that registered today. With today’s registrations we have already exceeded the number of drivers pre-registered at this time last year.

The Tradition Continues…

Just a Few Quotes from the meeting:

#38 Kirk Hooker – 2005 SHOULDICE STONE ALSTAR Champion - "I am going to defend my title!"

#82 Jason Shaw - "We have got a new car in the works, we plan on winning in 06"

Bob Sanders - SHOULDICE DESIGNER STONE - "I’m pumped, let's go to the next level!"

TONY STEWART: Nice to see

Great finish to the NASCAR season yesterday afternoon at Homestead.

Exciting race, an incredible finish and championship drama to the end. Brian France couldn't have scripted it any better. I guess he did script it, but that's another issue.

It was very nice to see Tony Stewart's reaction and that of his team to the championship. Sounds like the guy has had a lot of demons in his past, and now has them in check. From the sound of things, there was as much turmoil inside the team the last time they won the championship as it appeared there was from the outside.

I guess people mellow with age. I don't think Richard Petty will be heading to the banquet questioning Tony Stewart's ability to be a 'worthy' champion this time around, which is good for the sport. Congratulations to Tony Stewart and the HD team!

Mark Martin was close to winning the race and the championship (4th). Wouldn't it be something if he won next year, in the season in which he was supposed to be starting his retirement?

Finally, did anyone catch the post-qualifying story by Vic Rauter on TSN? It talked about Paul Tracy hoping to get into some Cup races in '06 and maybe full-time in '07. While Rauter was talking, the video was of a pit chat featuring Tracy, Roger Penske and an incognito-looking (hat, shades and without the NASCAR-issue beige chinos) Richard Buck. Buck is NASCAR's point-man in Canada. Buck used to work for Penske. Busy guy.

Friday, November 18, 2005

Makes a great Christmas gift....

Wondering what to get the Canadian racing fan on your Christmas list?

How about a gift subscription to Inside Track Motorsport News?

Save yourself the grief of doing battle in mall parking lots or worrying whether or not the ugly sweater you'll end up getting them at the last minute is the right size....

Buying a gift subscription to Inside Track is quick, easy, affordable, and a guaranteed winner.

Click here to find everything you need.

Edmonton locks up Champ Car event until 2010 (TSN)

Edmonton has signed a deal that will see the Champ Car Series return to Alberta through to 2010. Hopefully, they let CASCAR be part of the show.

Thursday, November 17, 2005

FREE DOWNLOAD: Rally of the Tall Pines Spectator Guide

The Rally of the Tall Pines takes place Nov. 25-26 in Bancroft, Ontario.

Inside Track Communications has produced the annual Spectator Guide.

In addition to printed copies, you can also download a FREE COPY of the 32-page guide, featuring the schedule, spectator maps, records, team profiles, rally profiles and much more.

To get your copy, simply follow this link to the official Rally of the Tall Pines website and click on where it says "Download".

In spite of the Guide being a 32-page, full-colour document, it's only a little bit over 2 MB in size, so it should download quickly whether you have high-speed internet access or dial-up.

NASCAR puts 'Big Brother' in its tires to control team testing time

Goodyear’s 2006 NASCAR Tire Lease Program to Deploy RFID Technology

AKRON, Ohio, Nov. 17, 2005 – Goodyear will start the 2006 racing season with a new tire leasing program for NASCAR’s top three series and racing’s first deployment of Radio Frequency Identification technology (RFID) in the form of an imbedded computer chip in the tires to help manage the leased inventory.
The RFID technology will assist in the implementation of NASCAR’s new controlled testing procedures which were developed by the sanctioning body to reduce private team testing next year in an effort to level the playing field for all teams.
The new tire lease program will get its own test run this weekend at Homestead –Miami Speedway with the Craftsman Truck Series race according to Greg Stucker, Goodyear’s director of race tire marketing.
“With RFID we will have the ability to ensure that every tire that comes to the racetrack with us leaves the track with us,” Stucker said. “While we will no longer sell tires to the teams for private testing, we will continue to supply Goodyear tires for NASCAR-scheduled testing in much the same way we do at race events.”
The RFID scanning equipment will quickly read the pertinent information imbedded in the sidewall of the tire. Stucker said that tire ID is the first piece of data that will be available through the computer chip. “We are exploring several other data options that will further the technological capability of race tire manufacturing and performance,” Stucker added.
Dedicated Goodyear specialists will be on site at all races with a specially equipped transporter to run the program. “The program is a major undertaking and investment for us in equipment, personnel and warehousing capabilities,” Stucker said. “The effort also reaffirms our continuing commitment to NASCAR and the overall quality of Nextel Cup, Busch and Craftsman Truck series racing.”
Goodyear began exploring RFID technology in 1984 and in 1993 began the first field trial with more than 3,000 tires. The Goodyear Racing Division chose to launch that technology to help manage race tire inventories for the 2006 NASCAR season.
(more)


Q&A
Goodyear’s NASCAR Tire Lease Program and RFID Technology

Tire leasing:
Q: How will the leasing program impact race teams for tire supply and cost?
A: The teams should save money under this tire leasing program, because there will be reduced tire usage—the teams will use fewer test tires. Tire supplies at race events will remain the same.

Q: Does a team get reimbursed for tires they leased but didn’t use during a race event?
A: Yes. Goodyear will issue a partial credit for unused, but Previously Mounted Tires that teams leased for the race. Used tires will be scrapped with no credit given.

Q: What happens to the dismounted, unused tires?
A: The previously mounted tires will be cleaned, identified as PMTs and then made available to NASCAR teams to lease at a discount for either race or test events.

Q: How was it decided to implement tire leasing in 2006?
A: Goodyear initially was asked by NASCAR to implement tire leasing for the 2007 race season. However, in mid 2005 NASCAR asked if we could move it up, and Goodyear was able to commit to the earlier date.

Radio Frequency identification:
Q: Goodyear has a barcode to track tires, so why is the move to RFID so important?
A: The bottom line is: the RFID chip can store a lot of data, live the life of the tire and provide for automated reads. Goodyear Racing chose to implement the quickest method available to log in the thousands of tires being returned at the end of a race before teams can depart the track.

Q: How does RFID work for this application?
A: It is, in essence, the “next barcode.” It will track each tire’s lifespan and do it quicker, from a greater distance and at extreme angles, while carrying the greatest amount of information. Each tire has a unique ID.

Q: Is use of this chip technology an economical option?
A: Early on, RFID was used for high-value goods, such as car engines that an automaker had to track closely in production. But, higher demand has since lowered the cost to make RFID usage more viable on lower-cost goods

Q: Since use of RFID is new to Goodyear’s race tire business, isn’t there a risk of issues?
A: Racing is the perfect environment in which to launch this technology. It has been in development in our laboratories for several years. We chose to launch it in NASCAR because we have a very controlled operation that is run by highly skilled people. We have backup barcode and other redundancy built in.

Q: So this official launch of RFID by Goodyear is a big deal for everybody?
A: We expect this racing application to help advance efforts throughout our Goodyear operations. Its implications extend to production, quality, warehousing, sales and service. Just as a multitude of passenger tire advances has come from our racing roots, so goes this RFID technology.

Obviously, Italian judges aren't elected....

From TSN - The Sports Network // 11/17/2005

The Italian Grand Prix is in danger of not being staged next year following a court ruling which limits the amount of noise coming from the circuit.

Milan civil court judge Marco Manunta ruled that racing is a "superfluous, dangerous and socially useless activity with a big impact on the environment."

Unless a suitable system is put in place to further reduce the noise levels, all competitions will be banned at the Monza circuit.

The ruling comes after a 2001 complaint filed by residents who live near the track. They complained that their lives had been turned into a living hell by the noise of racing cars at the circuit.

"At the moment we wouldn't be able to host any F1 activity," Enrico Ferrari, the director of the Monza autodrome, tells Gazzetta dello Sport.

However, Ferrari says there is still plenty of time to resolve the issues before the Italian Grand Prix next September.

A planned rally event at the track this weekend will go ahead because track officials say the noise levels are "within the current set of rules".

Going south?

Shouldice ALSTAR champ Kirk Hooker confirmed that the Country View / Hooker Bros. Racing team is once again heading to Florida in February to race at New Smyrna Speedway in the annual World Series of Asphalt Stock Car Racing.

Obviously, heading all that distance for a jam-packed nine nights of racing is an intense and expensive venture, requiring support from sponsors and other sources.

Kirk confirmed that his longtime friend, Eugene Hoekstra (seen in the picture with Hooker), has offered to buy three sets of tires for Kirk at NSS. Hooker actually got his start in racing at the age of 18 when Hoekstra - whose business is "Dig R Wright" - painted the #38 on his spare dirt Street Stocker and put Hooker in the car.

Another well-known Canadian racer, Trevor Monaghan, is planning to race at New Smyrna, too. Monaghan will compete in the Super Late Model division and is currently preparing his equipment for the outing. Anyone interested in supporting Monaghan can reach him via e-mail.

If any other racer or team would like to get some support or attention for southern ventures, please let me know so that we can get your sponsors some recognition.

Racing works if we support the businesses that support racing.

Wednesday, November 16, 2005

Great Photo, continued

I received a note from a little bird (named Joel) who said that the subject of yesterday's photo quiz wasn't sure if it was him. This should help to clarify things. :)

By the way, thanks again to Dave Franks for letting me use these old shots. Dave called today to say he thinks it's a great idea. If anyone is looking for photos, you can reach Dave at: (905) 846-3615.

Tuesday, November 15, 2005

Great photo

Dave Franks stopped by the other day with a few photos. In fact, he's given us a bunch of classic shots over the years, going back to the early '80s. We don't always have room for them in the magazine, so I thought I might post some of them from time to time here.

Does anyone recognize this guy? According to Dave Franks, the shot was taken in 1985... obviously at Flamboro. Apparently, the racer has won a championship or two since....

Monday, November 14, 2005

I want some of what they're smokin..... or... Count the mistakes in this story

Don't know how long it will last, but check out this ridiculous story on the 640toronto.com site....

Molson Pulls Sponsorship of Indy RacesNov, 14 2005 - 2:20 PM
TORONTO/640TORONTO - THE TORONTO MOLSON INDY IS NO MORE (One!).
THE RACE IS STILL EXPECTED TO CONTINUE, BUT MOLSON HAS PULLED ITS TITLE SPONSORSHIP OF THIS (Two!) HIGH PROFILE EVENT.
MOLSON SAYS IT WILL CONCENTRATE MORE ON ACTIVITIES THAT ITS CONSUMERS TAKE PART IN.
NO WORD YET ON THE FATE OF THE INDY RACES HERE IN TORONTO (huh?... three).... AS WELL AS MONTREAL (the story should be about Montreal in the first place... four) AND VANCOUVER (Oh no... you mean the Indy might leave Vancouver? haha... FIVE!).
- 640 Toronto 24 hour Newscentre

Maybe they're still steaming over the way the race was 'promoted' this past summer?

Molson dumps sponsorship of Montreal Champ Car race.

Sunday, November 13, 2005

Tony Novotny on WindTunnel earlier tonight

CASCAR founder / president Tony Novotny was on WindTunnel with Dave Despain on Sunday evening. Although many were hoping to hear the news that CASCAR has been sold to NASCAR, no sale was announced.

Novotny sounded somewhat frustrated when he said that NASCAR would be better able to give an answer on their timeline for buying CASCAR. He also said that it's still his goal to have someone with the resources to take CASCAR to a higher level buy the series... be it NASCAR or another entity.

To his credit, Novotny hasn't been the one feeding the "NASCAR buying CASCAR" frenzy. But it has been fed nonetheless, to the point that many people will be very disappointed if it doesn't happen.

Novotny appears to be preparing the drivers, teams and sponsors for the sale NOT to happen, at least not in time to help them sell their programs in 2006. We are already well past the date by which a NASCAR official close to the situation told me that something had to be done for the teams to take advantage of the news.

The bottom line is that budgets are being set right now, and that things have to move forward - with or without NASCAR - so that people can 'get off the fence' and build for next season.

Continuing to leave everyone in limbo is the worst thing that can happen. Tonight, Novotny demonstrated that he understands that.

Friday, November 11, 2005

Pro Modified Racing Association to run at Toronto Motorsports Park in 2006

TMP first to sign up for PMRA series next season as part of KC Auto Parts Family Day Celebration

Cayuga, ON – The Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA), www.ProModifiedRacing.com will be returning to Toronto Motorsports Park for the KC Auto Parts Family Day Celebration as part of the drag racing series 2006 tour.

"We had two great shows with the PMRA in 2005, and are excited the group is returning in 2006," said TMP’s General Manager Lorraine Bergstrand. "This series puts on a great show, and we are looking forward to another."

The popular PMRA Pro Modifieds are scheduled to return to the IHRA-sanctioned quarter-mile strip in Cayuga, ON, Saturday, June 24, 2006.

The TMP event is the first of several for the series in 2006. Entering into its second year of operation, the PMRA has at present 22 teams on its roster from Ontario, New York, and Pennsylvania.

"The PMRA is very happy to return to TMP, said KC Auto Part’s Kasey Janzen. "This is an outstanding track, considered by many to be one of the best drag strips in Canada. The track is also very popular with the teams."

In the first-ever PMRA race held in May of 2005, Carl Spiering of Jordan Station, ON, in the Spiering Motorsports Eaton Cutler-Hammer entry, took out Barrie, ON’s Al Billes for the victory at the 50-year old Kohler Road facility.

PMRA officials are in negotiations with several tracks at present for 2006, both eighth and quarter-mile tracks in Ontario, Quebec, Michigan, and New York with the plan of presenting a six -event drag racing series in 2006.

For information about the KC Auto Parts Family Day Celebration at Toronto Motorsports Park call 1.905.772.0303 (Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET) or visit online at www.torontomotorsportspark.com

Joining the PMRA Pro Modifieds at Toronto Motorsports Park will be the Can-Am Stock/Super Stock Series. This popular grass-roots drag series which features competitors from Ontario and New York, was formed in 1996, and continues to grow each season. The participants, known for their awesome wheelies, are fan favorites wherever they appear.

In its second year of operation, the PMRA will provide drag race fans the opportunity to see and hear popular Pro Modified racing in the class known as "the world’s fastest doorslammers."

The PMRA is a self-governing organization with its own set of technical and safety rules based on the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) Pro Modified division. Cars in the PMRA capture the true spirit of hot rodding, and the class offers a widely-diverse group of race cars with different types of 2000-horsepower engines propelling the cars down the quarter-mile in the 6.20-second range at 230 mph.

For more information contact Bruce F. Mehlenbacher bmehlenbacher@mountaincable.net

NASCAR: The shuffle continues

Just days after it was revealed that Bobby Labonte's time with Joe Gibbs Racing was coming to an end, he's headed to Petty Enterprises.

DIRT MOTORSPORTS ANNOUNCES OUTDOOR CHANNEL OFF SEASON SCHEDULE FEATURING 12 WORLD OF OUTLAWS SPRINT SERIES SPECIAL FEATURE PROGRAMS

NORMAN, OK, November 11, 2005 / Business Wire / DIRT MotorSportsTM (DIRT) (OTCBB: BMSR) announced its off-season national Outdoor Channel television line-up with 13 weeks of new feature programs leading up to the first 2006 World of Outlaws Sprint Series season race broadcast from the DIRT-owned Volusia Speedway Park during “Speed Weeks” in Florida, February 10 – 11. The off-season television line-up will lead directly into the 2006 schedule which will include 34 race broadcasts and 16 feature programs for a total including rebroadcasts, of 150 hours of national television coverage on The Outdoor Channel.

“Our extensive off-season coverage of the World of Outlaws Sprint Series is part of our ongoing commitment to bring our teams into the national spotlight and strengthen the connection between our Outlaw drivers and fans both young and old,” said Paul A. Kruger, DIRT Chairman and CEO. “These programs also feature great racing highlights from the 2005 season, giving us the opportunity to provide dirt tracks across the country with additional national television exposure.

“Though the 2006 season doesn’t officially start until February, the life of an Outlaw driver never slows down,” continued Kruger. “Our partnership with The outdoor Channel gives us the opportunity to showcase the excitement, drama and intensity of this historic series all year long.”

Millions of fans will get the chance to meet the Outlaws face-to-face during “Elbows Up!” the trackside program that explores life on the road and behind the scenes for the historic World of Outlaws. The title of the show which refers to a level of no-holds-barred racing excitement is also a well-respected National Speed Sport News weekly feature devoted to open wheel racing. In conjunction with National Speed Sport News, Elbows UP! hosted by World of Outlaws Sprint Series Announcer Johnny Gibson and outdoor Channel commentator Brad Doty will feature a variety of guests including drivers, team owners, sponsors and members of the media.

“We’re very proud of our Elbows Up! brand and delighted that DIRT wanted to use the name for its new show,” said Jim Savas, Vice President and Publisher, National Speed Sport News. “This new show will give fans another opportunity to watch the World of Outlaws and serve as a place to introduce new fans to the sport of dirt track racing.”

The debut episode of Elbows Up! which airs Wednesday, December 21st at 8 p.m. ET on The Outdoor Channel was taped at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Las Vegas, NV during the final 2005 World of Outlaws season event. Featured guests included the 2006 World of Outlaws drivers Craig Dollansky, Donny Schatz, Daryn Pittman, Terry McCarl, Brooke Tatnell, Randy Hannagan and Jeremy Campbell with special guest Shane Carson, DIRT VP Race Operations. Fans traveling to the World of Outlaws 2006 season starting event at Volusia Speedway Park can watch the action during the second episode of Elbows Up! taped from the series’ new state-of-the-art mobile media center. Four to five episodes of the trackside program are scheduled for the 2006 schedule.

The television line-up will include the popular “Off Season with the Outlaws” program featuring biographies on the 2006 World of Outlaws Sprint Series national touring teams including Dollansky, Schatz, Pittman, McCarl, Tatnell, Hannagan, Campbell, Justin Henderson, Jason Martin, Brian Carlson, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Dion Hindi. The Off Season bio shows will also feature interviews with Paul Kruger, DIRT Chairman and CEO; Shane Carson, VP Race Operations and official series announcer Johnny Gibson.

Kicking off the expanded off-season broadcasts will be a series of programs that revisit the favorite 2005 season events of our top five 2006 World of Outlaws drivers. In-depth interviews give insight into the level of competition and intensity that these drivers and teams face running a national tour. Combined with race highlights, outdoor Channel commentators Art Eckman and Brad Doty relive some of the most exciting moments of the 2005 season.

So even though the 2005 race season may be over, the coverage continues for the “Greatest Show on Dirt.” All programs air Wednesdays at 8 p.m. with rebroadcasts on Fridays at 1 a.m. and Saturdays at 1 p.m. ET.



World of Outlaws Sprint Series Outdoor Channel Broadcast Schedule

Nov. 16: “Best of the Outlaws” with Craig Dollansky
Nov. 23: “Best of the Outlaws” with Donny Schatz
Nov. 30: “Best of the Outlaws” with Daryn Pittman
Dec. 7: “Best of the Outlaws” with Terry McCarl
Dec. 14: “Best of the Outlaws” with Brooke Tatnell
Dec. 21: “Elbows Up!” Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Dec. 28: 2005 World of Outlaws Sprint Series Banquet Show
Jan. 4: “Off Season with the Outlaws” Episode #1
Jan. 11: “Off Season with the Outlaws” Episode #2

Jan. 18: “Off Season with the Outlaws” Episode #3

Jan. 25: “Off Season with the Outlaws” Episode #4

Feb. 1: “Elbows Up!” Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Feb. 8: Outdoor Channel Programming
Feb. 15: Outdoor Channel Programming

Feb. 22: “Elbows Up!” Volusia Speedway Park

Mar. 1: World of Outlaws Sprint Series Race Program #1 from Volusia Speedway Park

Thursday, November 10, 2005

Super DIRT Week To Remain 'Super' In 2006 At NYS Fairgrounds

By Gary M. Spaid, DIRT MotorSports PRWEEDSPORT, N.Y. (November 7)

With the 34th edition of Super DIRT Week now officially in the record book, many race fans are looking towards the future and just what will happen to Super DIRT Week in 2006. Rumors have abounded concerning the future of this event! When Boundless (DIRT MotorSports, Inc.) took over operations in August of 2004, officials made it known that they wanted to shorten the annual autumn attraction from its present seven-day format to four full days. This was met with some resistance from the fans that had already purchased tickets as those sold at the 2004 event still showed a Monday through Sunday venue. Thus, shortening the 2005 event was not an option.


Why shorten the event at all? The idea of shortening the event came down to one of dollars and cents. Race teams, race fans and officials could save lodging costs for two nights, meal costs would be saved to the tune of six meals per person, race team members and race officials would have to take less time off their regular jobs, and finally it was felt that the same package of events could be put together in a more compact way during a shorter time period.


What racing divisions will SDW XXXV feature? DIRT MotorSports wants to highlight all of its regular NorthEast touring divisions so expect SDW to still consist of Pro Stock, Sportsman, 358-Modified and of course the big-block Advance Auto Parts Modified classes at the Syracuse Mile. A review of the customary 'satellite' events at nearby Brewerton Speedway and Rolling Wheels Raceway is also underway. Some are speculating that DIRT MotorSports may possibly feature its other touring divisions like the World of Outlaws Stacker 2® Late Models or WoO Sprints. Time will tell with regards to the exact program comprising these popular 'satellite' events, but race fans can expect them to remain part of Super DIRT Week for years to come.


What about all the perceived rule changes for Super DIRT Week '05? Fans responded this year to the posted rule 'changes' posted on the internet as well as seen in print. These rules, with the exception of the scaffolding and ARV rules, are actually the same ones that have served as guidelines for the past thirty years. 2005 only marked the first time that they were listed openly as DIRT MotorSports is now recognized internationally as a public company. Food was never before allowed to be brought into the main grandstands area, huge bonfires were never allowed (in many cases they were just ignored) while small campfires were, animals were allowed at the camping area but not in the grandstands unless the animal was used as a seeing-eye dog, and speed limits on ATVs and golf carts were restricted as was the abuse of these types of vehicles.

New in 2005 was the no scaffolding rule. The management of the NYS Fairgrounds, the City of Syracuse and the Town of Geddes, all became concerned about these structures and a decision was finally reached this year. Stringent insurance regulations also came into play so it became best to just forbid use of scaffolds altogether.

ATVs were also becoming an increasing problem as many children were racing them around the fairgrounds without proper supervision. Followed by many complaints by campers and fans in vender¹s row, restrictions needed to be placed on their use. None of these regulations are unreasonable when a large crowd of people assembles, especially for a multi-day event that requires security 24 hours daily.


What kind of schedule can is expect in 2006? A tentative schedule for Super DIRT Week XXXV has been outlined as follows: Camping will be allowed and 'early bird' inspections will begin Wednesday to allow for a full schedule of time trials and qualifying races on Thursday and Friday. Only one set of time trials will be offered to the big-block Advance Auto Parts Modifieds in place of the two-day format used in the past. That means the pole will be determined on Thursday, not Wednesday, making it possible for more drivers to take time off from their regular jobs and have an opportunity to earn a front starting spot. The remainder of the weekend schedule basically remains intact from previous years with Friday, Saturday and Sunday agendas following a similar path.



UPDATE: Bo-Dyn Bobsled Challenge

Geoff Bodine guides the Whelen bobsled at the Verizon Sports Complex in Lake Placid, N.Y.

Bodine was at the track Tuesday, November 8, test-driving one of the sleds that will be used during the Bo-Dyn Bobsled Challenge January 5-7, 2006 at the Verizon Sports Complex.

Over 10 NASCAR drivers, including Geoff Bodine, Tony Stewart, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Todd Bodine, Boris Said and Ken Schrader, have signed up to participate in the Bo-Dyn Bobsled Challenge.

Proceeds from this event will benefit the Bo-Dyn Bobsled Project, which provides American-made bobsleds to the U.S. Bobsled Teams free of cost.

Speedy recovery to Al Unser....

From the Associated Press

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - Four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Al Unser was recovering and expected to make a full recovery after doctors in Colorado removed a tumour from his liver Wednesday.

''He's good for another 100,000 miles,'' joked Unser's wife, Susan. ''The doctor is 99 per cent sure they got all of it. There's no evidence it spread anywhere.''

... more at the link above....

Wednesday, November 9, 2005

Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame forced to move

CANADIAN MOTORSPORT HALL OF FAME LOOKING FOR A NEW HOME

Canada’s largest collection of famed racing vehicles must relocate for new Soccer Stadium

NOVEMBER 2005 (Toronto) – Toronto City council’s approved construction of the new Major League Soccer stadium is forcing the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame (CMHF) to rapidly look for another home to house its remarkable collection of Canadian racing vehicles and memorabilia.

The CMHF, which has been located in the Hall of Fame building at Exhibition Place, adjacent to the Sports Hall of Fame since March 2002, has been given its eviction notice and has been told it must vacate the premises by January 31, 2006.

Thom Dickinson, President of the board of the CMHF, says, “we have a team of people which is working hard to find a new and hopefully better location, but 90 days doesn’t give us a lot of time. We’re investigating several possibilities, but we’re also open to suggestions and offers".

The CMHF, also known as “Canada’s Home of Speed” holds the country’s largest known collection of racing machines and memorabilia. It has more than 20 spectacular vehicles in its diverse collection including the Walter Wolf Formula One car driven by Jody Scheckter, the 1995 Indy 500-winning Reynard driven by Jacques Villeneuve as well as Canada’s most famous racing boat, Miss Supertest III. It also boasts a unique collection of racing suits, helmets and trophies.

Determined to keep operating and remain open for fans, visitors, tours and events, Dickinson states, “We’re working hard to find a home that offers permanence and provides more room for bigger and better displays so we can continue to preserve, promote and celebrate Canada’s rich racing heritage.”

The Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame was established to honour and recognize the achievements of those who have made significant contributions to Canada’s rich and colourful motorsport history. Since its inception in 1993, more than 90 people have been inducted into the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame including Greg Moore, Scott Goodyear and the legendary Gilles Villeneuve.

In 1999, the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame combined with the Canadian
Automotive Collection and operates as a not-for-profit, charitable organization. It
relies on individual donations and corporate sponsorship.

- 30 -

For more information contact:
Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame
Tim Miller 416-263-3223
Christina Batty 905-952-2099
www.cmhf.ca

Villenuve out?

There's a story on TSN that says the Canadian might be through at BMW.

CASCAR's Novotny to appear on WindTunnel this Sunday

From CASCAR: CASCAR fans can look forward to catching Tony Novotny appear on the popular SpeedChannel program WindTunnel with Dave Despain. Tune into SpeedChannel this Sunday November 13th at 9:00 pm!

No Engine, All Speed....

There are a couple neat bobsledding videos (in-sled?) on the Bo-dyn Bobsled Project site....

For NASCAR fans looking for some mid-winter action, Lake Placid, NY sounds like the place to be on January 5-9.

STOCKS: Sunset Speedway Drivers' Meeting - Dec. 4

Sunset Speedway's 2005 Drivers Meeting has been set for Sunday December 4th, 2006 at the Corral Country Roadhouse in Stroud. It is located in the IGA plaza on the west side of Highway 11.

Monday, November 7, 2005

UNITED STATES WILL SEEK A BID FOR A ROUND OF THE WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP

Courtesy Herb Clark, Vice President of Marketing & Sales, Sullivan Co. Visitors Assoc.

Monticello, New York (November 7, 2005) – The Sullivan County Visitors Association and Rally New York, Ltd. have reached an agreement to pursue a bid for a future round of the World Rally Championship. Rally New York, Ltd. is seeking approval to submit a bid to the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) to host a World Rally Championship here in the Sullivan County Catskills. The FIA is interested in expanding the World Rally series especially with a location in the United States. The observation year would be slated for early 2007 with the actual event held from 2008 on an annual basis.

Rally New York, Ltd. has already received approval from the Town Supervisors of the towns where the championship would be held and legislative approval from Sullivan County. “We are very interested in bringing an automobile race of this importance to Sullivan County and fully support the efforts of this experienced promoter” stated Chris Cunningham, the Sullivan County Legislative Chairman. The Sullivan County Visitors Association is working hand in hand with Rally New York seeking public and private partnerships to sponsor the event. “A World Championship event of this caliber will give Sullivan County world recognition and a substantial boost to the economy of Sullivan County, the region and the entire State of New York” said Roberta Byron-Lockwood, President & CEO of the Sullivan County Visitors Association.

Ivan Orisek, President of Rally New York, Ltd. stated that the process is a two year venture with the first year being an observation event in which observers from the FIA would evaluate the rally to see if it meets specifications to be included into the World Rally Championship. The next year would be the actual event seen on TV by hundreds of millions of rally fans around the world. The economic effects of an event of this magnitude are millions of dollars during the event and residual millions due to the extreme exposure of the race.

Ed Jackson, Deputy Clerk of the Course added: “This is a culmination of our five-year effort to bring rallying in the United States out of distant wilderness inaccessible to spectators and to the vicinity of New York City.” Sullivan County Catskills is a resort area located only 90 miles northwest of New York City with excellent highway access.

Rally New York, Ltd. is already the promoter of Rally New York USA and International rally New York, two of the eight events being held in the 2006 United States Rally Championship. Rally New York will seek support of ACCUS, the United States Affiliate of FIA, the United States Auto Club (USAC) and National Auto Sport Association (NASA) for the bid to the FIA.

NASCAR: McMurray To Make New Mark Driving #97 IRWIN/Sharpie Ford

ATLANTA, Nov. 7, 2005 – Jamie McMurray, one of NASCAR’s fastest-rising stars, today announced that he will drive the IRWIN Industrial Tools/Sharpie Ford for Roush Racing in 2006. The announcement ends the speculation of when one of the most coveted driver’s seats in racing would be filled.

“The addition of Jamie McMurray as driver of the IRWIN/Sharpie Ford is a development that’s exciting to our employees, customers and fans,” said Eric Pinkham, director of motorsports for Newell Rubbermaid. “There’s no question that Jamie now has the right tools to achieve even greater NASCAR success and make a permanent mark on racing history.”

In making his new home in the Roush Racing camp, McMurray inherits a wealth of experience in his NASCAR Nextel Cup series teammates at Roush including Mark Martin, Matt Kenseth, Greg Biffle and Carl Edwards.

“I’m proud to come on board with IRWIN and Sharpie,” said McMurray. “There couldn’t be a better fit for me. Backed by the Roush championship tradition and the support of millions of IRWIN and Sharpie fans, we will take it to the next level in 2006. I’m ready to go.”

Born in Joplin, Mo., and a resident of Statesville, N.C., McMurray turned the racing world on its head in October 2002 at Lowe's Motor Speedway as he scored his first NASCAR Cup victory in only his second career start filling in for the injured Sterling Marlin. In the process, McMurray set a new NASCAR modern-era record by becoming the quickest driver to win a Cup race. In his true rookie season of 2003, he competed in all 36 Cup races, scoring five top-fives and 13 top-10 finishes. During his sophomore year behind the wheel, McMurray post nine top-five and 23 top-10 finishes en route to finishing 11th in points and picking up NASCAR’s $1 million bonus. So far this season, McMurray has four top-fives and 10 top-10 finishes.

“We also would like to thank Kurt Busch for helping IRWIN and Sharpie bring home an unforgettable championship in 2004,” said Pinkham. “We wish him well and are now looking forward to earning another title with Jamie at the wheel.”

IRWIN and Sharpie racing will compete in 15 races throughout the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series next year, including special Sharpie paint schemes at each event at Bristol Motor Speedway. The brands’ sponsorship will feature interactive marketing at tracks, retail appearances, advertising and consumer and customer promotions.

About IRWIN Industrial Tools
IRWIN Industrial Tools manufactures and distributes professional-grade hand tools and power tool accessories worldwide for trade professionals who demand superior performance and durability on the job. IRWIN Industrial Tools' brand portfolio features user-preferred category leaders such as BLUE BLADE® bi-metal utility blades, VISE-GRIP® locking tools, MARATHON® saw blades, QUICK-GRIP® clamping tools, SPEEDBOR® wood-boring drill bits, STRAIT-LINE® marking tools, Unibit® step drill bits and HANSON® taps and dies. IRWIN Industrial Tool products are available wherever professional tools are sold. For more information about the IRWIN line of hand tools and power tool accessories, call 1-800-GO IRWIN or visit irwin.com.


About Sharpie and Sanford
Sharpie®, invented in 1964, is the popular family of permanent markers. Sanford, maker of Sharpie permanent markers, is a business unit of Newell Rubbermaid Inc. (NYSE: NWL). The Company is a worldwide leader in the manufacturing and marketing of writing instruments, including such well known brands as Paper Mate®, Colorific®, Parker®, Waterman®, EXPO® and uni-ball®, among others. Sanford makes more than 6,000 products ranging from markers, pens and pencils to professional art products and fine writing instruments. For more information on Sanford and its family of brands, please visit www.sanfordcorp.com or call 800.323.0749.

BRIGHTON SPEEDWAY PARTS EXCHANGE

WHEN: Saturday, November 12th @ 9:00am

WHERE: Brighton Speedway Paved Track Surface

WHAT: BSP is offering all drivers and vendors an opportunity to exhibit their new or used parts to fellow competitors and the public. Free Admission and No Commission required! You can't beat this chance to get a jump start on 2006. Bring out your wares and take the time to talk with other drivers!

ATLANTIC CITY'S BOARDWALK HALL INDOOR RACE TICKETS GOING ON SALE

From Ernie Saxton

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ - Tickets for the 2006 Atlantic City Indoor Race at Boardwalk Hall are set to go on sale Saturday, November 12th according to a recent announcement by event organizer Len Sammons.

The dates of Fri., Jan. 20, and Sat., Jan. 21, have been established for the fourth annual indoor auto racing motorsports spectacular, which has rekindled what was a wintertime tradition at the seaside resort from 1965-1981.

Well over 100 race cars are expected to participate in high-speed oval-track competition on the Hall's concrete floor, rubbing tires and trading paint in pursuit of cash and prizes.

All seats in the Hall's balcony will be general admission for the Friday-night racing program, which includes the "Roaring 20s" triple 20-lap qualifiers for the Three Quarter Midgets/600cc Micro-Sprints, the Slingshot by Tobias division's "Dirty Dozen" and a main for the Senior Caged Champ Karts.

Saturday night's featured card, headlined by the 40-lap "Gambler's Classic" for TQ Midgets/600cc Micro-Sprints and a 20-lap Slingshot event, will offer reserved seats in the Hall's prime lower section. Admission to Saturday afternoon's "Small Car Nationals" program that boasts Senior Caged Champ Karts, Modified and Sportsman Micro-Stocks and Young Lion Slingshots is included with all Saturday tickets.

In addition, Saturday night's popular pre-race "Fan Fest" on the racetrack surface will be restricted to reserved-seat ticket holders due to Boardwalk Hall fire regulations.

"Fans will certainly want to purchase their tickets early," said Len Sammons. "They can take advantage of a discount offered to advance-ticket buyers and assure themselves seats in the lower section so they'll be right on top of Saturday's action." Tickets purchased on the day of the event will cost $2 more than those purchased in advance.

There will be no increase in ticket prices from the 2005 indoor event.

Advance-sale tickets for the program on Fri., Jan. 20, are $17 (adults) and $10 (child). General admission tickets for Sat., Jan. 21, are $20 (adults) and $12 (child), while reserved seats are priced at $25.

Tickets can be purchased through all Ticketmaster outlets (including by phone or on-line at ticketmaster.com); at the Atlantic City Boardwalk Hall box office; or at the Area Auto Racing News office in Trenton, N.J.

Entry forms for the A.C. Indoor Race are currently being mailed to teams that competed in the 2005 edition. They are also available on-line at www.aarn.com or by calling the event office at 609-888-3618. -End-