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Gray & Cagnazzi Team Up For 2014
Gray Motorsports and Cagnazzi Racing will combine forces in 2014 to create a powerful multi-car team with sites set on winning the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series Pro Stock championship.
The two established NHRA Pro Stock programs will merge together as one and operate under the Gray Motorsports banner.
Engine development for both the Pro Stock and Cagnazzi’s successful COPO Camaro Stock Eliminator programs will take place at the Gray Motorsports facility in Denver, North Carolina, and chassis development for both will take place in Victor Cagnazzi’s facility in nearby Mooresville. The new Gray Motorsports team is currently seeking support for a three-car team to include drivers Shane Gray, Dave Connolly and Erica Enders-Stevens.
The merger will allow Cagnazzi and Gray Motorsports owner Johnny Gray to follow an already proven method of success.
“This is a model that NASCAR embraced years ago because of all the performance and economic efficiencies,” said Cagnazzi. “We believe that for NHRA and the sport of drag racing, this is a natural progression, and it’s a progression that we intend to lead.”
“With the cost of running these cars and the difficulty of finding sponsorship, it just makes sense to follow NASCAR’s successful model. We believe that this merger is in the best interest for all of us, and we expect to see results,” Gray said.
Also included in the merger will be the establishment of an engine and technology leasing program that will allow Pro Stock drivers and teams requiring varying levels of support to participate in the ultra-competitive class.
“We want to provide good, competitive engines to customers who do not have the funding required to spend on the research and development it takes to be successful in this class,” said Gray. “There will be something for everyone; we’ll offer programs to lease engines for the guy who can only run two or three races a year all the way up to a full season. Heck, if you want to bring your helmet, we’ll provide you with a complete car, crew, and the expertise with which you can run at the championship.”
Gray Motorsports currently has a program in place that crafts engines for circle track racing such as 360 and 410 sprint cars, as well as IMCA competition that includes modifieds, late models, sprint cars, stock cars, and hobby stocks. With the expansion of the in-house engine program and the inclusion of Cagnazzi’s existing personnel, development and leasing will soon extend to engines used in NHRA’s sportsman series categories Competition Eliminator and Top Sportsman.
“Victor and I are very excited about joining forces to build a more competitive program and go after the 2014 Mello Yello Pro Stock championship,” said Gray. “We expect that a Gray Motorsports Pro Stock car will win the championship, and we will be thrilled when that happens—regardless of which of our drivers is behind the wheel.”
Cagnazzi concurred.
“I’m very excited. The combined organization presents a talent pool that is pretty stout and includes personnel who collectively have achieved several Pro Stock championships,” said Cagnazzi. “I think that the most exciting thing is that we’ll be operating as a team and as a unit. One team, one goal. See you in the winner’s circle.”
The two established NHRA Pro Stock programs will merge together as one and operate under the Gray Motorsports banner.
Engine development for both the Pro Stock and Cagnazzi’s successful COPO Camaro Stock Eliminator programs will take place at the Gray Motorsports facility in Denver, North Carolina, and chassis development for both will take place in Victor Cagnazzi’s facility in nearby Mooresville. The new Gray Motorsports team is currently seeking support for a three-car team to include drivers Shane Gray, Dave Connolly and Erica Enders-Stevens.
The merger will allow Cagnazzi and Gray Motorsports owner Johnny Gray to follow an already proven method of success.
“This is a model that NASCAR embraced years ago because of all the performance and economic efficiencies,” said Cagnazzi. “We believe that for NHRA and the sport of drag racing, this is a natural progression, and it’s a progression that we intend to lead.”
“With the cost of running these cars and the difficulty of finding sponsorship, it just makes sense to follow NASCAR’s successful model. We believe that this merger is in the best interest for all of us, and we expect to see results,” Gray said.
Also included in the merger will be the establishment of an engine and technology leasing program that will allow Pro Stock drivers and teams requiring varying levels of support to participate in the ultra-competitive class.
“We want to provide good, competitive engines to customers who do not have the funding required to spend on the research and development it takes to be successful in this class,” said Gray. “There will be something for everyone; we’ll offer programs to lease engines for the guy who can only run two or three races a year all the way up to a full season. Heck, if you want to bring your helmet, we’ll provide you with a complete car, crew, and the expertise with which you can run at the championship.”
Gray Motorsports currently has a program in place that crafts engines for circle track racing such as 360 and 410 sprint cars, as well as IMCA competition that includes modifieds, late models, sprint cars, stock cars, and hobby stocks. With the expansion of the in-house engine program and the inclusion of Cagnazzi’s existing personnel, development and leasing will soon extend to engines used in NHRA’s sportsman series categories Competition Eliminator and Top Sportsman.
“Victor and I are very excited about joining forces to build a more competitive program and go after the 2014 Mello Yello Pro Stock championship,” said Gray. “We expect that a Gray Motorsports Pro Stock car will win the championship, and we will be thrilled when that happens—regardless of which of our drivers is behind the wheel.”
Cagnazzi concurred.
“I’m very excited. The combined organization presents a talent pool that is pretty stout and includes personnel who collectively have achieved several Pro Stock championships,” said Cagnazzi. “I think that the most exciting thing is that we’ll be operating as a team and as a unit. One team, one goal. See you in the winner’s circle.”
October 2013
DRT Racing Preparing For 2014 With DR Racing Kart
The 2013 season has been a successful program for the growing DRT Racing operation. With additional dealers added to the DR Racing Kart network throughout North America, and the addition of key racers to the brand, victories and championships were earned at all levels of the sport. Looking ahead to 2014, DRT Racing is working closely with the DR Racing Kart factory to ensure the product available for next season keeps drivers at the front of the field.
Early October, Danilo Rossi traveled to the United States to work with the DRT Racing operation during a week-long test session. Taken place at the GoPro Motorplex in Mooresville, North Carolina, a total of five new chassis models for TaG and shifter application were put on the pavement and pushed to the limits.
Piloting the DR karts were veteran Chris Keller, rising star Carter Fawtuch, and DRT Racing’s lead mechanic/driver Brian Fisher. Danilo oversaw the changes made to the TaG karts while Fisher was the primary tuner on the shifterkart models. The group worked together over the course of the test, providing great feedback for Mr. Rossi to take back to the Italian factory for minor adjustments in the design of each chassis. A special guest stopped by to sample the DR Racing Kart as 1978 Karting World Champion and former NASCAR driver Lake Speed offered his expertise. The North Carolina resident still races karts from time to time, with the entire DRT Racing group enjoying their time with the only American karting world champion.
“The test with Danilo was important to us and provided us with some very promising results,” stated DRT Racing owner Don Guilbeault. “2013 was a great year for us and the DR Racing Kart brand, as we have extended our dealer network from coast to coast, and from Texas to Canada. The DR Racing Kart chassis has gained a number of race wins and championships throughout the year, in both sprint and road racing. DR chassis is strong in the shifterkart ranks, and this test provided us with more data to improve on our TaG package for the United States market. We are confident in the product we will be providing for 2014 season.”
The DRT Racing team would like to congratulate Chris Jennings on his Texas ProKart Challenge S4 Master Stock Moto championship. In the northeast, Carter Fawtuch and Chris Keller went 1-2 in the 2013 Gearup F Series while Josh Lane scored the title in the Northeast Shifter Kart Series Stock Moto division. A strong DR Racing Kart contingent that swept the top-three positions in the Stock Honda championship standings, including double champ Carson Miller, Byron Rothenhoefer, Bill Pyles, and Mark Nagy. In Europe, Norwegian driver Emil Antonsen added a CIK-FIA European Championship to the DR Racing Kart mantel, as the brand has been one of the most successful brands in the KZ2 category in recent years. DRT Racing sends out its thanks to all the DR Racing Kart drivers, families and dealers.
Before the season is over, DRT Racing is focused on bringing home a few more victories to close 2013. A full driver roster is set for the upcoming Superkarts! USA SuperNationals XVII in Las Vegas for the SKUSA Pro Tour finale. With additional support from the factory team in Italy, including Mr. Rossi himself, the DRT operation is set on earning victories this year and looking to help guide Fisher toward a championship in the S4 Master Stock Moto division.
“The results this year have been a great improvement from a year ago,” added Guilbeault. “Our customers provide a great working relationship for us, and they have performed well throughout the country. Our mission is to close out the year with big performances at the SuperNationals in Las Vegas and to show the world stage that DRT Racing is a professional and successful kart racing operation. Our driver roster will be stellar, including Fisher, the Lane family and our other North American DR Racing Kart drivers, with the addition of a few new names and international stars.”
Early October, Danilo Rossi traveled to the United States to work with the DRT Racing operation during a week-long test session. Taken place at the GoPro Motorplex in Mooresville, North Carolina, a total of five new chassis models for TaG and shifter application were put on the pavement and pushed to the limits.
Piloting the DR karts were veteran Chris Keller, rising star Carter Fawtuch, and DRT Racing’s lead mechanic/driver Brian Fisher. Danilo oversaw the changes made to the TaG karts while Fisher was the primary tuner on the shifterkart models. The group worked together over the course of the test, providing great feedback for Mr. Rossi to take back to the Italian factory for minor adjustments in the design of each chassis. A special guest stopped by to sample the DR Racing Kart as 1978 Karting World Champion and former NASCAR driver Lake Speed offered his expertise. The North Carolina resident still races karts from time to time, with the entire DRT Racing group enjoying their time with the only American karting world champion.
“The test with Danilo was important to us and provided us with some very promising results,” stated DRT Racing owner Don Guilbeault. “2013 was a great year for us and the DR Racing Kart brand, as we have extended our dealer network from coast to coast, and from Texas to Canada. The DR Racing Kart chassis has gained a number of race wins and championships throughout the year, in both sprint and road racing. DR chassis is strong in the shifterkart ranks, and this test provided us with more data to improve on our TaG package for the United States market. We are confident in the product we will be providing for 2014 season.”
The DRT Racing team would like to congratulate Chris Jennings on his Texas ProKart Challenge S4 Master Stock Moto championship. In the northeast, Carter Fawtuch and Chris Keller went 1-2 in the 2013 Gearup F Series while Josh Lane scored the title in the Northeast Shifter Kart Series Stock Moto division. A strong DR Racing Kart contingent that swept the top-three positions in the Stock Honda championship standings, including double champ Carson Miller, Byron Rothenhoefer, Bill Pyles, and Mark Nagy. In Europe, Norwegian driver Emil Antonsen added a CIK-FIA European Championship to the DR Racing Kart mantel, as the brand has been one of the most successful brands in the KZ2 category in recent years. DRT Racing sends out its thanks to all the DR Racing Kart drivers, families and dealers.
Before the season is over, DRT Racing is focused on bringing home a few more victories to close 2013. A full driver roster is set for the upcoming Superkarts! USA SuperNationals XVII in Las Vegas for the SKUSA Pro Tour finale. With additional support from the factory team in Italy, including Mr. Rossi himself, the DRT operation is set on earning victories this year and looking to help guide Fisher toward a championship in the S4 Master Stock Moto division.
“The results this year have been a great improvement from a year ago,” added Guilbeault. “Our customers provide a great working relationship for us, and they have performed well throughout the country. Our mission is to close out the year with big performances at the SuperNationals in Las Vegas and to show the world stage that DRT Racing is a professional and successful kart racing operation. Our driver roster will be stellar, including Fisher, the Lane family and our other North American DR Racing Kart drivers, with the addition of a few new names and international stars.”
October 2013
Auto Club Dragway To Build Sound Wall
It took nine months in 2001 for the drag strip at Auto Club Speedway to go from a proposal to San Bernardino County to reality. It’ll be roughly the same amount of time before Auto Club Dragway resumes competition.
Due to opposition from a community group who took their complaints to court, the only quarter-mile drag strip south of Bakersfield’s Auto Club Famoso Drag Strip has been shut down since early 2012. In announcing the action before the March 3 Street League event, a track statement noted the Superior Court action.
“The suspension results from a successful challenge of a San Bernardino County sound standard by a group of concerned residents. San Bernardino County officials had approved an amendment to the county sound standard in 2010 to accommodate louder sound arising from races at the dragway. The Superior Court found that the underlying environmental impact report, which the county relied on to approve the sound standard amendment, was not sufficient. We are currently reviewing the court ruling and evaluating our options moving forward.”
It’s taken some time, but the speedway will comply. Mainly, the construction of a sound wall will aid in reducing the noise complaints, at an estimated cost of $1.25 million.
“We are very excited that Auto Club Dragway in Fontana is reopening as an NHRA member track in 2014, providing a place to race for local enthusiasts and helping to fulfill NHRA’s and Auto Club’s mission of keeping racing on the track and off the street,” read a NHRA statement this week. “We owe a huge thank you to Gillian Zucker and the team at International Speedway Corporation for believing in NHRA and making the significant investment necessary to re-open the facility.
“Auto Club, SEMA, K&N Engineering, the racing community and government officials were also instrumental in making this happen. NHRA enthusiasts in Southern California have few places to race.
“This track will change that, offering the NHRA Street Legal Drags presented by AAA, the Summit NHRA Drag Racing Series and the NHRA Summit Jr. Drag Racing League.”
It’s expected that the sound wall—24-foot high and 1,800 feet in length, wrapping around the starting line and running the length of the track—will also allow the track to host NHRA divisional meets and feature the return of the Jegs Western SportsNationals.
SoCal drag racing fans are anxious to see the track back on-line.
“The local racing community is excited that drag racing will return to Fontana,” said Jim Willoughby, an Ontario resident who was among the leaders of a movement to keep the venue open. “This will be a huge benefit to the local economy as well as help law enforcement cut down on illegal street racing.
“We look forward to supporting Auto Club Speedway’s endeavor.”
Due to opposition from a community group who took their complaints to court, the only quarter-mile drag strip south of Bakersfield’s Auto Club Famoso Drag Strip has been shut down since early 2012. In announcing the action before the March 3 Street League event, a track statement noted the Superior Court action.
“The suspension results from a successful challenge of a San Bernardino County sound standard by a group of concerned residents. San Bernardino County officials had approved an amendment to the county sound standard in 2010 to accommodate louder sound arising from races at the dragway. The Superior Court found that the underlying environmental impact report, which the county relied on to approve the sound standard amendment, was not sufficient. We are currently reviewing the court ruling and evaluating our options moving forward.”
It’s taken some time, but the speedway will comply. Mainly, the construction of a sound wall will aid in reducing the noise complaints, at an estimated cost of $1.25 million.
“We are very excited that Auto Club Dragway in Fontana is reopening as an NHRA member track in 2014, providing a place to race for local enthusiasts and helping to fulfill NHRA’s and Auto Club’s mission of keeping racing on the track and off the street,” read a NHRA statement this week. “We owe a huge thank you to Gillian Zucker and the team at International Speedway Corporation for believing in NHRA and making the significant investment necessary to re-open the facility.
“Auto Club, SEMA, K&N Engineering, the racing community and government officials were also instrumental in making this happen. NHRA enthusiasts in Southern California have few places to race.
“This track will change that, offering the NHRA Street Legal Drags presented by AAA, the Summit NHRA Drag Racing Series and the NHRA Summit Jr. Drag Racing League.”
It’s expected that the sound wall—24-foot high and 1,800 feet in length, wrapping around the starting line and running the length of the track—will also allow the track to host NHRA divisional meets and feature the return of the Jegs Western SportsNationals.
SoCal drag racing fans are anxious to see the track back on-line.
“The local racing community is excited that drag racing will return to Fontana,” said Jim Willoughby, an Ontario resident who was among the leaders of a movement to keep the venue open. “This will be a huge benefit to the local economy as well as help law enforcement cut down on illegal street racing.
“We look forward to supporting Auto Club Speedway’s endeavor.”
October 2013
NeSmith Chevrolet DLMS Opens 2014 Season With Eight Speedweek Events
The NeSmith Chevrolet Dirt Late Model Series Touring Division will open the 2014 season with eight Speedweek events at two tracks. Bubba Raceway Park in Ocala, Florida, will host the first five races on January 28 through February 1, and Golden Isles Speedway in Brunswick, Georgia, will present three races on February 6, 7, and 8.
The first four Bubba Raceway Park events on January 28, 29, 30, and 31 will each be $2,000-to-win 40-lap races. The February 1 Bubba Raceway Park event will be 50-laps in length and pay $3,000-to-win. Bubba Raceway Park will host a practice session on Monday night, January 27.
NeSmith Chevrolet Dirt Late Model Series Bubba Raceway Park Speedweek winners from last season were Ronny Lee Hollingsworth of Northport, Alabama, with three wins, Kyle Bronson of Brandon, Florida, and the defending NeSmith Chevrolet Dirt Late Model Series National Champion Ronnie Johnson of Chattanooga, Tennessee.
The three Golden Isles Speedway races on February 6, 7, and 8 will each be 50-lap $2,500-to-win events. The NeSmith Chevrolet Dirt Late Model Series will be making its first visit to Golden Isles Speedway since 2006 when Dennis “Rambo” Franklin of Gaffney, South Carolina picked up the win.
NeSmith Chevrolet Dirt Late Model Series officials are still finalizing the remainder of the 2014 Schedule of Events for the Touring Division, and will be making more announcements in the coming weeks.
The NeSmith Chevrolet Dirt Late Model Series Touring Division will close its 2013 season at Bubba Raceway Park on November 21-23 with the $10,000-to-win 100-lap 9th Annual Chevrolet Performance Parts World Championship Race. There will be a practice session on November 21, with Qualifying and Heat Races on November 22, and the B-Mains and A-Main will be on November 23.
For more information and rules about the NeSmith Chevrolet Dirt Late Model Series, visit the series all-new web site at www.nesmithracing.com.
2014 NeSMITH CHEVROLET DIRT LATE MODEL SERIES SPEEDWEEKS SCHEDULE:
Jan. 28: Bubba Raceway Park, Ocala FL, 40 Laps, $2,000-To-Win
Jan. 29: Bubba Raceway Park, Ocala FL, 40 Laps, $2,000-To-Win
Jan. 30: Bubba Raceway Park, Ocala FL, 40 Laps, $2,000-To-Win
Jan. 31: Bubba Raceway Park, Ocala FL, 40 Laps, $2,000-To-Win
Feb. 1: Bubba Raceway Park, Ocala FL, 50 Laps, $3,000-To-Win
Feb. 6: Golden Isles Speedway, Brunswick, GA, 50 Laps, $2,500-To-Win
Feb. 7: Golden Isles Speedway, Brunswick, GA, 50 Laps, $2,500-To-Win
Feb. 8: Golden Isles Speedway, Brunswick, GA, 50 Laps, $2,500-To-Win
The first four Bubba Raceway Park events on January 28, 29, 30, and 31 will each be $2,000-to-win 40-lap races. The February 1 Bubba Raceway Park event will be 50-laps in length and pay $3,000-to-win. Bubba Raceway Park will host a practice session on Monday night, January 27.
NeSmith Chevrolet Dirt Late Model Series Bubba Raceway Park Speedweek winners from last season were Ronny Lee Hollingsworth of Northport, Alabama, with three wins, Kyle Bronson of Brandon, Florida, and the defending NeSmith Chevrolet Dirt Late Model Series National Champion Ronnie Johnson of Chattanooga, Tennessee.
The three Golden Isles Speedway races on February 6, 7, and 8 will each be 50-lap $2,500-to-win events. The NeSmith Chevrolet Dirt Late Model Series will be making its first visit to Golden Isles Speedway since 2006 when Dennis “Rambo” Franklin of Gaffney, South Carolina picked up the win.
NeSmith Chevrolet Dirt Late Model Series officials are still finalizing the remainder of the 2014 Schedule of Events for the Touring Division, and will be making more announcements in the coming weeks.
The NeSmith Chevrolet Dirt Late Model Series Touring Division will close its 2013 season at Bubba Raceway Park on November 21-23 with the $10,000-to-win 100-lap 9th Annual Chevrolet Performance Parts World Championship Race. There will be a practice session on November 21, with Qualifying and Heat Races on November 22, and the B-Mains and A-Main will be on November 23.
For more information and rules about the NeSmith Chevrolet Dirt Late Model Series, visit the series all-new web site at www.nesmithracing.com.
2014 NeSMITH CHEVROLET DIRT LATE MODEL SERIES SPEEDWEEKS SCHEDULE:
Jan. 28: Bubba Raceway Park, Ocala FL, 40 Laps, $2,000-To-Win
Jan. 29: Bubba Raceway Park, Ocala FL, 40 Laps, $2,000-To-Win
Jan. 30: Bubba Raceway Park, Ocala FL, 40 Laps, $2,000-To-Win
Jan. 31: Bubba Raceway Park, Ocala FL, 40 Laps, $2,000-To-Win
Feb. 1: Bubba Raceway Park, Ocala FL, 50 Laps, $3,000-To-Win
Feb. 6: Golden Isles Speedway, Brunswick, GA, 50 Laps, $2,500-To-Win
Feb. 7: Golden Isles Speedway, Brunswick, GA, 50 Laps, $2,500-To-Win
Feb. 8: Golden Isles Speedway, Brunswick, GA, 50 Laps, $2,500-To-Win
October 2013
NASCAR Mandates ImPACT Baseline Concussion Testing
NASCAR announced that beginning in 2014, the sanctioning body will mandate pre-season neurocognitive baseline testing as part of its comprehensive concussion prevention and management program for all of its national series drivers.
At the start of this season, NASCAR recommended that drivers who did not already have a baseline test secure one, while also indicating that a pre-season baseline mandate could become effective as soon as next year.
Baseline testing will be performed through the use of an ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) test, which is a widely-used neurocognitive assessment tool. The result of neurocognitive testing is one factor out of many that doctors use to diagnose and treat concussions. This particular test evaluates an athlete’s verbal and visual memory, processing speed and reaction time.
By performing this test prior to the start of a season of competition, doctors are given a snapshot of an athlete’s brain function while in a healthy state. Doctors can then use that baseline to compare to post-concussion tests to assist them in both evaluating the effects of any injury and informing their decisions to return an athlete to competition.
“NASCAR made this decision because we think it is important to drivers’ health for doctors to have the best information and tools available in evaluating injuries,” said Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR vice president of racing operations. “Before announcing this rule, we provided drivers concussion and baseline testing education and created opportunities for them to ask any questions they may have to a top neurosurgeon that specializes in traumatic brain injuries. Also, remember that ImPACT tests are not new to our sport and have been used for treatment through the years.”
Since NASCAR’s recommendation prior to the start of this season, drivers were invited to two concussion education sessions featuring Dr. Vinay Deshmukh, M.D. of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, a member of NASCAR’s Medical Advisory Group of Consulting Physicians. At those sessions, drivers were presented with an overview of what concussions are, their causes, treatment and the role that baseline tests play in the comprehensive evaluation of concussions.
“We are extremely confident that our concussion protocol is among the best in sports,” O’Donnell said. “We regularly review all of our practices involving safety and health to see if there is anything that we can do better, or should do differently moving forward. Implementing baseline testing is a primary example of our philosophy to protect our competitors the best that we can.”
At the start of this season, NASCAR recommended that drivers who did not already have a baseline test secure one, while also indicating that a pre-season baseline mandate could become effective as soon as next year.
Baseline testing will be performed through the use of an ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) test, which is a widely-used neurocognitive assessment tool. The result of neurocognitive testing is one factor out of many that doctors use to diagnose and treat concussions. This particular test evaluates an athlete’s verbal and visual memory, processing speed and reaction time.
By performing this test prior to the start of a season of competition, doctors are given a snapshot of an athlete’s brain function while in a healthy state. Doctors can then use that baseline to compare to post-concussion tests to assist them in both evaluating the effects of any injury and informing their decisions to return an athlete to competition.
“NASCAR made this decision because we think it is important to drivers’ health for doctors to have the best information and tools available in evaluating injuries,” said Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR vice president of racing operations. “Before announcing this rule, we provided drivers concussion and baseline testing education and created opportunities for them to ask any questions they may have to a top neurosurgeon that specializes in traumatic brain injuries. Also, remember that ImPACT tests are not new to our sport and have been used for treatment through the years.”
Since NASCAR’s recommendation prior to the start of this season, drivers were invited to two concussion education sessions featuring Dr. Vinay Deshmukh, M.D. of Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, a member of NASCAR’s Medical Advisory Group of Consulting Physicians. At those sessions, drivers were presented with an overview of what concussions are, their causes, treatment and the role that baseline tests play in the comprehensive evaluation of concussions.
“We are extremely confident that our concussion protocol is among the best in sports,” O’Donnell said. “We regularly review all of our practices involving safety and health to see if there is anything that we can do better, or should do differently moving forward. Implementing baseline testing is a primary example of our philosophy to protect our competitors the best that we can.”
October 2013
Sonoma Raceway Highlights 2014 Major Events
Sonoma Raceway will rattle the grapevines next summer, as the Toyota/Save Mart 350 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend highlights its diverse 2014 motor racing schedule.
In addition to NASCAR, the busy summer schedule will also include the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series, IndyCar Series, FIA World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) and Sonoma Historic Motorsports Festival.
NASCAR headlines the schedule as the series marks its 26th annual visit to Sonoma, June 20-22. The race has featured nine different winners over the past nine years, including Martin Truex Jr., who became the seventh consecutive driver to post his first Sprint Cup Series road-course victory in Sonoma. Race fans will also be treated to the NASCAR Pro Series West race on Saturday, as well as the premier air show on the NASCAR circuit during pre-race ceremonies on Sunday, June 22.
Drag racing fans will enjoy back-to-back weekends of action, highlighted by the 27th annual NHRA Sonoma Nationals, July 25-27. Fan favorite Ron Capps claimed his fourth Funny Car title in Sonoma earlier this year, and five track records were set on the lightning-quick drag strip. The NHRA Division 7 Drag Races, presented by Korbel, will kick-off festivities the weekend prior, July 18-20.
The IndyCar Series will celebrate its diamond anniversary in Sonoma, as the GoPro Grand Prix of Sonoma marks the series' 10th event on the twisting circuit, Aug. 22-24. Team Penske continued its dominance at Sonoma Raceway, as Will Power claimed the fourth consecutive win for the team in August.
The FIA WTCC brings its international flair to Sonoma for the third consecutive year, Sept. 20-21. The weekend will again feature an action-packed schedule on Sunday with two 13-lap main events.
Historic car racing will take center stage during two unique weekends, including the Sonoma Historic Motorsports Festival (May 17-18) and the Classic Sports Racing Group Charity Challenge (Oct. 4-5).
For tickets or more information, call 800-870-RACE (7223) or visit www.racesonoma.com or www.ticketmaster.com.
The complete Sonoma Raceway major event schedule for 2014:
• Sonoma Historic Motorsports Festival - May 17-18
• Toyota/Save Mart 350 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series - June 20-22
• NHRA Division 7 Drag Races, presented by Korbel - July 18-20
• NHRA Sonoma Nationals - July 25-27
• GoPro Grand Prix of Sonoma - Aug. 22-24
• FIA World Touring Car Championship - Sept. 20-21
• Classic Sports Racing Group Charity Challenge - Oct. 4-5
* Schedule subject to change without notice.
In addition to NASCAR, the busy summer schedule will also include the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series, IndyCar Series, FIA World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) and Sonoma Historic Motorsports Festival.
NASCAR headlines the schedule as the series marks its 26th annual visit to Sonoma, June 20-22. The race has featured nine different winners over the past nine years, including Martin Truex Jr., who became the seventh consecutive driver to post his first Sprint Cup Series road-course victory in Sonoma. Race fans will also be treated to the NASCAR Pro Series West race on Saturday, as well as the premier air show on the NASCAR circuit during pre-race ceremonies on Sunday, June 22.
Drag racing fans will enjoy back-to-back weekends of action, highlighted by the 27th annual NHRA Sonoma Nationals, July 25-27. Fan favorite Ron Capps claimed his fourth Funny Car title in Sonoma earlier this year, and five track records were set on the lightning-quick drag strip. The NHRA Division 7 Drag Races, presented by Korbel, will kick-off festivities the weekend prior, July 18-20.
The IndyCar Series will celebrate its diamond anniversary in Sonoma, as the GoPro Grand Prix of Sonoma marks the series' 10th event on the twisting circuit, Aug. 22-24. Team Penske continued its dominance at Sonoma Raceway, as Will Power claimed the fourth consecutive win for the team in August.
The FIA WTCC brings its international flair to Sonoma for the third consecutive year, Sept. 20-21. The weekend will again feature an action-packed schedule on Sunday with two 13-lap main events.
Historic car racing will take center stage during two unique weekends, including the Sonoma Historic Motorsports Festival (May 17-18) and the Classic Sports Racing Group Charity Challenge (Oct. 4-5).
For tickets or more information, call 800-870-RACE (7223) or visit www.racesonoma.com or www.ticketmaster.com.
The complete Sonoma Raceway major event schedule for 2014:
• Sonoma Historic Motorsports Festival - May 17-18
• Toyota/Save Mart 350 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series - June 20-22
• NHRA Division 7 Drag Races, presented by Korbel - July 18-20
• NHRA Sonoma Nationals - July 25-27
• GoPro Grand Prix of Sonoma - Aug. 22-24
• FIA World Touring Car Championship - Sept. 20-21
• Classic Sports Racing Group Charity Challenge - Oct. 4-5
* Schedule subject to change without notice.
October 2013
Edelbrock's 75th Anniversary Mustang Giveaway Winner To Be Announced At The 2013 SEMA Show
You're invited to join Edelbrock in the Ford Racing booth when they announce the winner of the Edelbrock 75th Anniversary Mustang Giveaway.
This press conference is the culmination of a nine-month promotion celebrating Edelbrock's 75 years in business. This once in a lifetime promotion allowed enthusiasts to enter for a chance to win a unique 2013 Ford Mustang featuring an Edelbrock E-Force Supercharger and Ford Racing Performance upgrades.
The winner will be announced on November 6, 2013 at 10:30 am in the Ford Motor Company booth #22200 in the central hall. It will include the winner of the Mustang as well as a few words from Vic Edelbrock Jr., Ford representatives and the official handing off of the keys. For more information, please contact Eric Blakely at (310) 781-2222 or at eblakely@edelbrock.com.
The Edelbrock 75th Anniversary 2013 Ford Mustang GT features an Edelbrock E-Force supercharger, as well as select Ford Racing upgrades including; FR3 Handling Pack with adjustable dampers, short throw shifter, X-pipe, side exhaust system and wheels for improved performance and styling. It also has been hand-painted with Edelbrock's anniversary logo and graphics.
75th Anniversary Mustang Press Conference Details:
• Edelbrock will unveil the winner of it's 75th Anniversary 2013 Mustang Giveaway
• When: Wednesday, November 6, 2013 @ 10:30 am
• Where: 2013 SEMA show @ the Ford Motor Company booth #22200 in the central hall
For more information, visit http://www.edelbrock.com.
This press conference is the culmination of a nine-month promotion celebrating Edelbrock's 75 years in business. This once in a lifetime promotion allowed enthusiasts to enter for a chance to win a unique 2013 Ford Mustang featuring an Edelbrock E-Force Supercharger and Ford Racing Performance upgrades.
The winner will be announced on November 6, 2013 at 10:30 am in the Ford Motor Company booth #22200 in the central hall. It will include the winner of the Mustang as well as a few words from Vic Edelbrock Jr., Ford representatives and the official handing off of the keys. For more information, please contact Eric Blakely at (310) 781-2222 or at eblakely@edelbrock.com.
The Edelbrock 75th Anniversary 2013 Ford Mustang GT features an Edelbrock E-Force supercharger, as well as select Ford Racing upgrades including; FR3 Handling Pack with adjustable dampers, short throw shifter, X-pipe, side exhaust system and wheels for improved performance and styling. It also has been hand-painted with Edelbrock's anniversary logo and graphics.
75th Anniversary Mustang Press Conference Details:
• Edelbrock will unveil the winner of it's 75th Anniversary 2013 Mustang Giveaway
• When: Wednesday, November 6, 2013 @ 10:30 am
• Where: 2013 SEMA show @ the Ford Motor Company booth #22200 in the central hall
For more information, visit http://www.edelbrock.com.
October 2013
Team Toyo Off-Road Stars To Hold Demo At SEMA
Toyo Tires will present an adrenaline-pumping driving demonstration November 6, with Team Toyo stars Robby Gordon, BJ Baldwin, Kyle LeDuc and Jeremy “Twitch” Stenberg. The event will take place during the 2013 SEMA Show in front of the Las Vegas Convention Center’s Central Hall. The action will begin at 5 p.m. when the 600-horsepower Stadium SUPER Trucks start their engines and take off on Toyo Open Country tires.
Spectators will see the talents of two desert racing champions, Robby Gordon and BJ Baldwin. In addition, Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series 2012 Pro 4 Unlimited class champion Kyle LeDuc; and X-Games Gold Medalist and Pro 2 Unlimited short course driver Jeremy “Twitch” Stenberg will also demonstrate why they are the best in their sport. Each driver will take multiple runs on the course.
Once the action settles, fans will have a chance to meet the celebrity drivers, get autographs and take photos. Toyo models will also be on hand passing out Team Toyo posters and signing autographs.
“Toyo Tires is offering racing fans the rare opportunity to not just see but also meet these super stars in the sport of off-road racing,” said Amy Coleman, senior director of marketing, Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. “Whether you are attending the SEMA Show or just in Las Vegas, mark this exciting event on your calendar.”
Toyo Tires will have its largest presence ever at the 2013 SEMA Show with three branded areas and nearly 200 Toyo-equipped vehicles on display throughout the Convention Center. Be sure to check out the main Toyo Tires booth on the first floor of the South Hall; the motorsports exhibit in the DUB Live area located outside the South Hall; and the Toyo Tires Treadpass, the new passageway connecting the Central and South Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Spectators will see the talents of two desert racing champions, Robby Gordon and BJ Baldwin. In addition, Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series 2012 Pro 4 Unlimited class champion Kyle LeDuc; and X-Games Gold Medalist and Pro 2 Unlimited short course driver Jeremy “Twitch” Stenberg will also demonstrate why they are the best in their sport. Each driver will take multiple runs on the course.
Once the action settles, fans will have a chance to meet the celebrity drivers, get autographs and take photos. Toyo models will also be on hand passing out Team Toyo posters and signing autographs.
“Toyo Tires is offering racing fans the rare opportunity to not just see but also meet these super stars in the sport of off-road racing,” said Amy Coleman, senior director of marketing, Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. “Whether you are attending the SEMA Show or just in Las Vegas, mark this exciting event on your calendar.”
Toyo Tires will have its largest presence ever at the 2013 SEMA Show with three branded areas and nearly 200 Toyo-equipped vehicles on display throughout the Convention Center. Be sure to check out the main Toyo Tires booth on the first floor of the South Hall; the motorsports exhibit in the DUB Live area located outside the South Hall; and the Toyo Tires Treadpass, the new passageway connecting the Central and South Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center.
October 2013
Eight More To Be Inducted Into Midget Hall Of Fame
Eight inductees have been announced for the National Midget Auto Racing Hall of Fame.
The mix of drivers, car owners and officials will officially be honored during a ceremony held on the Tulsa (Oklahoma) State Fairgrounds January 17.
This year’s inductees are Wayne Adams, Emil Andres, George Benson, Dan Boorse, Dominic Distarce, Les Kimbrell, Cletus “Cowboy” O’Rourke and Jigger Sirois.
A legendary figure in Chicago-area Midget media, Adams enjoyed more than four decades of announcing, officiating, photographing and writing the sport. Among his many duties was serving as the chief announcer for the highly popular races at Chicago’s Soldier Field.
Andres, a regular member of the “Chicago Gang” in 1930s and 1940s Midget racing, graduated to prominence in stock car and championship racing. Among his victories were the 100-mile Springfield, Illinois, championship race and a 100-miler in 1948 at the Milwaukee Mile. He was honored by the Indianapolis 500 Oldtimers with their 1997 Louis Meyer Award.
Benson capped a stellar Midget racing career with his 1969 victory in the prestigious “Turkey Night Grand Prix” at Ascot Park in Gardena, California. A pioneer builder as well, his 35-year career included a pair of CRA sprint car victories and other regional midget titles.
Boorse earned seven championships in the tough Badger Midget Racing Association. His 50-year career included prestigious wins in the 1999 and 2003 Chili Bowl Championship in Tulsa, Oklahoma and the 1984 and 1999 Pepsi Midget Nationals at Sun Prairie, Wisconsin.
Distarce, who served the American Automobile Ass’n as an official, actually served as the race organizer for the first professional Midget race ever held, in 1933 at Loyola High School Stadium in Los Angeles, California. As a chief starter he was in the stand on the fateful day of Rex Mays’ demise at Del Mar, California, in 1949 and he was also features as a starter in the racing epic To Please A Lady, starring Clark Gable and Barbara Stanwyck.
Kimbrell was instrumental in the area of scoring for many years, officiating as hundreds of Midget races and at the annual Indianapolis 500. Kimbrell was the official scorer on the stand January 8, 1956, when the first USAC race was conducted at the Memorial Coliseum in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He later served in various offices as a board member for the National Midget Auto Racing Hall of Fame.
O’Rourke recorded a number of midget wins during the 1930s and 1940s, including a spectacular upside-down victory over Duke Nalon at the Chicago Field Artillery Armory in 1937. In 1951 he was named the champion at the Chicago International Amphitheater.
Sirois drove a variety of race cars and in 1961 he captured the UARA Midget title, which included four track championships. A 100-mile race on the Milwaukee Mile and an open-competition Midget Series title at Daytona Beach, Florida were also part of his repertoire, but in 1969 his aborted qualifying run for the Indianapolis 500 earned notoriety as he would have been on the pole for the race had he completed the run.
The mix of drivers, car owners and officials will officially be honored during a ceremony held on the Tulsa (Oklahoma) State Fairgrounds January 17.
This year’s inductees are Wayne Adams, Emil Andres, George Benson, Dan Boorse, Dominic Distarce, Les Kimbrell, Cletus “Cowboy” O’Rourke and Jigger Sirois.
A legendary figure in Chicago-area Midget media, Adams enjoyed more than four decades of announcing, officiating, photographing and writing the sport. Among his many duties was serving as the chief announcer for the highly popular races at Chicago’s Soldier Field.
Andres, a regular member of the “Chicago Gang” in 1930s and 1940s Midget racing, graduated to prominence in stock car and championship racing. Among his victories were the 100-mile Springfield, Illinois, championship race and a 100-miler in 1948 at the Milwaukee Mile. He was honored by the Indianapolis 500 Oldtimers with their 1997 Louis Meyer Award.
Benson capped a stellar Midget racing career with his 1969 victory in the prestigious “Turkey Night Grand Prix” at Ascot Park in Gardena, California. A pioneer builder as well, his 35-year career included a pair of CRA sprint car victories and other regional midget titles.
Boorse earned seven championships in the tough Badger Midget Racing Association. His 50-year career included prestigious wins in the 1999 and 2003 Chili Bowl Championship in Tulsa, Oklahoma and the 1984 and 1999 Pepsi Midget Nationals at Sun Prairie, Wisconsin.
Distarce, who served the American Automobile Ass’n as an official, actually served as the race organizer for the first professional Midget race ever held, in 1933 at Loyola High School Stadium in Los Angeles, California. As a chief starter he was in the stand on the fateful day of Rex Mays’ demise at Del Mar, California, in 1949 and he was also features as a starter in the racing epic To Please A Lady, starring Clark Gable and Barbara Stanwyck.
Kimbrell was instrumental in the area of scoring for many years, officiating as hundreds of Midget races and at the annual Indianapolis 500. Kimbrell was the official scorer on the stand January 8, 1956, when the first USAC race was conducted at the Memorial Coliseum in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He later served in various offices as a board member for the National Midget Auto Racing Hall of Fame.
O’Rourke recorded a number of midget wins during the 1930s and 1940s, including a spectacular upside-down victory over Duke Nalon at the Chicago Field Artillery Armory in 1937. In 1951 he was named the champion at the Chicago International Amphitheater.
Sirois drove a variety of race cars and in 1961 he captured the UARA Midget title, which included four track championships. A 100-mile race on the Milwaukee Mile and an open-competition Midget Series title at Daytona Beach, Florida were also part of his repertoire, but in 1969 his aborted qualifying run for the Indianapolis 500 earned notoriety as he would have been on the pole for the race had he completed the run.
October 2013