JustRacing Features

IMS Productions to Provide World Challenge TV Production

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 04:48:25 PST

IMS Productions to Provide World Challenge TV Production
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Feb. 4, 2010) – WC Vision and SCCA Pro Racing announced today that IMS Productions will produce the television broadcasts for the 2010 World Challenge® Championships. Each race, which will include segments from Internal Combustion Group, will air on Versus in HD.

As the media and technology partner to the world-famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indy Racing League, IMS Productions provides Emmy-Award winning production for the series, which also airs on Versus.

Internal Combustion Group, which post-produced the World Challenge broadcasts in 2009, will assist by providing in-show features as well as the announce crew including Tom Hnatiw, the long-time at-track voice of SCCA Pro Racing and World Challenge, and Greg Creamer, who has called televised World Challenge races for the last 10 years.

“We have a tremendous team producing our 2010 TV programming,” WC Vision VP, Marketing & Communications Dave Drimmie said. “IMS has a long track record of producing top-notch, high quality racing shows, and Hnatiw, Creamer and ICG know the series inside and out and will be able to give our fans intelligent and insightful World Challenge commentary, analysis and features.”

IMS Productions will manage production and provide the post-production of the broadcasts and deliver the product to Versus, in 63.8 million households across the US. The partnership between IMS Productions and World Challenge was a natural one, with the series joining the IRL IndyCar® Series at five venues.

“Indianapolis Motor Speedway Productions is excited to be the Production and Technical Facility provider for the 2010 World Challenge HD telecasts on VERSUS,” IMS Productions Vice President and Executive Producer Brian Gordon said. “Five of the eight World Challenge race weekends are happening during IZOD IndyCar Series events, so it makes perfect sense to have our experienced production team capture the on-track action and finish the post-production at our state-of-the art HD facility across from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. We also look forward to working with the Internal Combustion Group to create compelling World Challenge content.”

Hnatiw and Creamer return to the booth, bringing the most knowledgeable and entertaining one-two punch in American road racing.

"We were thrilled with the prospect of working with IMS Productions in 2010 after an absolutely outstanding experience working with them only a little in 2009,” Internal Combustion Group President Hnatiw said. “The depth of talent at IMS is as good, or better, than any motorsports television organization on the planet.

"I can't wait to tackle this new format from a play-by-play broadcasting perspective. Then again, I've never been at a loss of words when it's about my favorite racing series."

The 2010 World Challenge Championships begin with a double-race weekend in St. Petersburg, Fla. as part of the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, March 26-28. The two races will air in one program April 18 at 2 p.m. (Eastern) on Versus.

Posted On 2/4/10

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SCCA Convention Closes With Top Awards, Hall of Fame Inductions

Sun, 31 Jan 2010 09:01:08 PST

SCCA Convention Closes With Top Awards, Hall of Fame Inductions
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (Jan. 31, 2010) – Sports Car Club of America concluded its 2010 National Convention Presented by Gumout at the South Point Hotel and Casino with the annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Awards Banquet Presented by Honda.

Five members were inducted into the SCCA Hall of Fame, including former president Nick Craw, road racing legend Briggs Cunningham, longtime leader R. David Jones, former staff member and FIA steward Burdette “Berdie” Martin and rally pioneer Wayne Zitkus.

Additionally, the top awards for 2009 were presented, including:
Woolf Barnato Award (longtime organization contributions): Andy Porterfield
Member of Excellence (Club-wide contributions for 2009): Dave Deborde
Presidents Cup (Top Club Racing Runoffs Performance): Sam Halkias
John McGill Award (Top Club Racing Contribution): Fred Cummings
Solo Cup (Top Solo Contribution): Sandi Brown
Robert Ridges Award (Top RoadRally Contribution): Ron Ferris

The Saturday evening function capped three days of seminars and celebrations for SCCA. For the first time, the event included a series of seminars specifically for drivers and crew, including sessions on car construction, testing, shock absorbers, engines and fuel system additives. Speakers included famed SCCA members Joe Huffaker Jr. and Dan Binks.

SCCA President and CEO Jeff Dahnert closed the event, declaring it a success to the 455 attendees.

For more information about SCCA, please visit www.scca.com.

Posted On 1/31/10

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Club Racing Awards Presented at SCCA Convention

Sun, 31 Jan 2010 09:30:02 PST

Club Racing Awards Presented at SCCA Convention
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (Jan. 30, 2010) – Sports Car Club of America’s annual National Convention Presented by Gumout entered the home stretch Saturday, with top awards being presented at the Club Racing awards luncheon at the South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

In addition to recognizing outgoing members of the Club Racing Board, the Time Trials Advisory Council and the Executive Stewards program, the following awards were presented:

Jim Fitzgerald Award (Top National Racing Rookie): Kevin Ruck, OVR
Kimberly Cup (Most Improved): Tom Ellis, Florida
Road Racing Drivers Club Mark Donohue Award: Michael Varacins, Chicago
Dave Morrell (Excellence in Stewarding): Tom Hoffman, DC Region
Martin Tanner Award (Courageous or Heroic action): Robert Anthony, Central Florida

The afternoon continues with more seminars, including a panel discussion by the Competitor Session speakers. The evening, and Convention, concludes Saturday evening with the Hall of Fame Awards Ceremony Presented by Honda.

For more information, please visit www.scca.com/convention.

Posted On 1/31/10

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SCCA Convention Rolls On, Solo and Rally Awards Presented

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 02:40:59 PST

SCCA Convention Rolls On, Solo and Rally Awards Presented
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (Jan. 29, 2010) – Sports Car Club of America’s annual National Convention Presented by Gumout completed its second day on Friday at the South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, highlighted by a series of racer-related seminars and the Tire Rack Rally/Solo Awards Luncheon.

Hosted by Hall of Fame member Roger Johnson, the awards ceremony honored excellence in RallyCross, RoadRally and Solo competition and organization in the 2009 season.

The winners were:

RoadRally
Arthur Gervais Award: Steve Gaddy’s Lobster Traps Rally, DC Region
Manufacturer of the Year: Subaru
Divisional Achievement Award: Northeast Division
Regional Achievement Award: Indianapolis Region
RoadRally Photo Contest 1st Place: Dave Head
RoadRally Photo Contest 2nd Place: Betsy Edwards
RoadRally Photo Contest 3rd Place: Dave Head

RallyCross
Divisional Achievement Award: Rocky Mountain Division
Regional Achievement Award: New England Region
RallyCross Photo Contest 1st Place: Marnie Swoom
RallyCross Photo Contest 2nd Place: Candy Gerber
RallyCross Photo Contest 3rd Place: Mark Walker

Solo
Driver of Eminence: Tom Berry, Cal Club
Johnson Spirit of the Sport: Mike McClintock, Detroit Region
Driver of the Year: Clemens Berger, Indianapolis Region
Rookie of the Year: Katie Nicholls, San Diego Region
Divisional of the Year: Central Division

More than 450 members have registered for the 2010 SCCA National Convention Presented by Gumout—the annual gathering of the Club’s leadership.

For more information, please visit www.scca.com/convention.

Posted On 1/29/10

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Solo Contingency Programs and Online Registration Now Available

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 12:17:44 PST

Solo Contingency Programs and Online Registration Now Available
By Eric Prill

TOPEKA, Kan. (Jan. 25, 2010) – While the first event of the 2010 Tire Rack SCCA National Solo program is still a month and a half away, participants can register to be eligible for thousands of dollars in contingency payouts today, with SCCA’s new online contingency registration program.

Tire Rack SCCA ProSolo National Series

As part of its across-the-board Platinum SCCA contingency program, Volkswagen offers both event and year-end prizes for drivers finishing in the top three in either class or Super Challenge competition. Drivers taking a class win in one of 16 eligible classes earn $200. Should they take the Super Challenge, they win $500.

Honda also pays $500 for a Super, Ladies or Honda Tuner Challenge win in each event, and $150 for a class win.

In eight classes, Bridgestone will post $500 to the winner of the Super Challenge, as well as a top three finish in class. Win a season-long class or Super Challenge title, and take home another $1,000.

Toyo Tires matches Bridgestone’s posting for Tire Rack ProSolo Street Touring® participants with its Silver level Contingency program.

iRacing.com Motorsports Simulations continues to pay the top three finishers in every class of ProSolo and National Tour competition a $15 iRacing credit.

Longtime SCCA supporter Hawk Performance offers up $100 in product credit to any class or Super Challenge winner using Hawk brake pads.

Hoosier, Mazdaspeed and TRD each post Bronze level programs, meaning registration and redemption are handled through those companies directly.

Hoosier offers two tires for a class win and one for a second-place finish. Event Super Challenge, year-end point Champions and Finale class winners each take four tires with a win.

Mazdaspeed will again pay out class, Challenge and year-end awards ranging from $200 for a class event win to $800 for a point championship. Likewise, TRD will pay class and year-end awards ranging from $200 to $1,000 for competitors in Toyota vehicles.

Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Tour

In Tire Rack Solo National Tour competition, Volkswagen will pay $200 for a class win and $100 for second place for VW drivers in any of 34 eligible classes.

Bridgestone, Toyo and Yokohama will each pay out top three finishes in the ST classes, with $300 going to the winner.

AST Suspension is a new contingency sponsor, offering first and fifth-place finishers in eligible classes product certificates, with a $750 award going to class winners.

Like AST, Hoosier and Mazdaspeed also offer Bronze packages. Winners on Hoosier tires win a pair of tires, with a single tire going to second-place finishers. Mazda will pay a Tour class winner $200 for a win and $100 for a second place finish.

In addition to the National program contingencies, Bridgestone and Toyo Tires have also posted programs for the Tire Rack SCCA Divisional Solo Championships.

For complete details on all of these contingency programs, visit www.scca.com/solo and click the “contingencies” link. A link for online registration is available there as well.

The 2010 Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Tour begins March 13, in Cecil, Ga. The Tire Rack SCCA ProSolo National Series begins April 17, in El Toro, Calif.

Posted On 1/29/10

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SCCA National Convention Begins in Las Vegas

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 12:14:18 PST

SCCA National Convention Begins in Las Vegas
By Eric Prill

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (Jan. 28, 2010) – Sports Car Club of America’s Annual National Convention Presented by Gumout began Thursday morning at the South Point Hotel and Casino with a series of seminars for interested SCCA members. The three-day event features the SCCA Annual Membership Meeting Thursday afternoon as well as a series of awards luncheons and the Annual Hall of Fame induction Saturday night.

Thursday’s luncheon featured leadership and Regional achievement awards from 2009. The winners were as follows:

Tom Burke Award for Regional Growth
Small Regions – Guam Region
Medium Regions – South Jersey Region
Large Regions – Philadelphia Region
Jumbo Regions – Milwaukee Region

Region Communication Awards (Web and Newsletter Excellence)
First Place: Atlanta Region
Second Place: Kansas City Region
Third Place: South Jersey Region
Honorable Mention: Northeast Oklahoma Region and Pan American Region

Region Achievement (Overall program excellence including growth, retention and variety of program and events)
Small Regions: Salina Region
Medium Regions: Blackhawk Valley Region
Large Regions: Northern New Jersey Region
Jumbo Regions: Colorado Region

Nearly 450 of SCCA’s member leaders are in attendance for this year’s SCCA National Convention Presented by Gumout. The rest of Thursday features the President’s Report, the Annual Meeting and Town Hall and the Welcome Reception Presented by Mazda.

Posted On 1/29/10

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Wittmer Joins Woodhouse Performance for 2010 World Challenge Effort

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 12:12:26 PST

Wittmer Joins Woodhouse Performance for 2010 World Challenge Effort
By Eric Prill

BLAIR, Neb. (Jan. 28, 2010) – Woodhouse Performance announced today that Montreal’s Kuno Wittmer will pilot the team’s No. 13 Dodge Viper Competition Coupe in the 2010 World Challenge GT Championship.

The team is entering its seventh year of competition in the World Challenge GT series, which begins its season with a double race weekend on the streets of St. Petersburg, Fla., March 26-28.

"We are thrilled to have Kuno in our Dodge Viper full time,” Woohouse Performance owner Bob Woodhouse said. "His past experience in multiple levels of competition along with the solid foundation this team has established will produce a great combination for success. We're on track to deliver great results for the 2010 season.”

“It is a great feeling and a dream come true, to be part of this effort,” four-time World Challenge Touring Car race winner Wittmer said. “The team and I are really looking forward to a strong off season testing program in order to be as competitive as possible."

Officials of Dodge Motorsports and Woodhouse Performance are pleased to continue their alliance. Matt Bejnarowicz of Pure Dynamics will provide engineering support and Rick Maxwell will serve as Crew Chief. The team hopes to announce the driver of its second factory-built Dodge Viper Competition Coupe soon.

“We’re excited about working with Dodge Motorsports,” Team Director of Operations Susan Dunklau said. “They’ve built a very solid World Challenge Series program over the past several seasons. We’re looking forward to working with Kuno.”

Wittmer made one start with the team in 2009, earning a front row starting spot at Road America. For more information, please visit www.woodhouseperformance.com.

For additional World Challenge information, including a television schedule for the series on Versus, please visit www.world-challenge.com.

Posted On 1/29/10

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2010 World Challenge Competition Classes Take Shape

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 12:20:41 PST

2010 World Challenge Competition Classes Take Shape
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Jan. 15, 2010) – After revealing a broader and more cost effective set of class specifications for the 2010 World Challenge Championships, SCCA Pro Racing has issued a preliminary list of eligible cars and class designations. Included in the listings are those cars eligible for the new GTS category.

The GTS class was created to attract vehicles not previously eligible or competitive for World Challenge competition. Many Touring Cars built prior to the 2010 rules package will fit easily into the new GTS class.

As previously announced in December, the Touring Car and Touring Car 2 classes will merge in 2010, forming one Touring Car class that will adhere to the TC2 rule set. Those Touring Car teams who do not wish to move to the GTS class may instead request to have their pre-2010 Touring Car updated to the new rules.

A preliminary list of eligible cars for Touring Car and GTS are available at www.world-challenge.com/competitors/archived.php. The list of eligible GT cars has remained largely unchanged and can also be found on the series Web site. All three lists are capable of growing throughout the season; cars not listed must first request a class assignment and undergo the homologation process before competing.

Current and prospective teams who need any assistance or clarifications regarding class designations and rule packages may contact the SCCA Pro Racing Technical Department at 785-357-7223.

The 2010 SCCA Pro Racing World Challenge season will begin March 26 – 28 on the streets of St. Petersburg, Fla., alongside the IZOD Indy Racing Series. The 2010 World Challenge season will air on VERSUS.

Posted On 1/15/10

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Gumout Named Presenting Sponsor of SCCA National Convention

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 12:23:37 PST

Gumout Named Presenting Sponsor of SCCA National Convention
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Jan. 11, 2010) – Sports Car Club of America, Inc. announced today that Gumout® has been named the presenting sponsor of the 2010 SCCA National Convention, the annual meeting of Club leadership held in Las Vegas, Jan. 28-30, 2010.

The meeting sponsorship is the first component of a multi-faceted marketing program that will be fully revealed at the SCCA National Convention Presented by Gumout.

“We’re very pleased to announce that Gumout has come on in a major way with our 2010 National Convention,” SCCA President and CEO Jeff Dahnert said. “Our convention is the most important non-competition event we have each year, where the best ideas and practices are shared from key member leaders across the country.”

Established in 1945, Gumout is a maker of top-line fuel system and injector cleaners as well as fuel system additives and maintenance fluids and aerosols. One of the most recognizable names in fuel system cleaners and additives, Gumout products are sold by automotive retailers nationwide.

As part of its Convention program, Gumout will be on site as an exhibitor and will take part in the new group of seminars geared toward SCCA racers.

“We’re excited to begin our relationship with SCCA, and there is no better place to do that than at the National Convention, which brings the Club Racing, Rally and Solo programs together in one location,” Gumout Brand Manager Rusty Waples said. “We look forward to this year’s National Convention Presented by Gumout and to meeting the great members of SCCA.”

The 2010 SCCA National Convention Presented by Gumout will take place at the South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nev., Jan. 28-30. The event is kicked off with the traditional annual membership meeting on Thursday, followed by a series of intriguing seminars for leaders and racers alike. Each day features a special awards luncheon, and the three-day Convention is capped off with the annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Presented by Honda.

To register for the SCCA National Convention Presented by Gumout or for more information, including a detailed event schedule, go to www.scca.com/convention.

For more information about Gumout and its line of products, please visit www.gumout.com.

About Gumout
Since 1945, Gumout® performance chemicals have delivered cutting-edge technology to help motorists get the most from every mile, with products blended specifically to clean, protect, and enhance critical vehicle parts. Gumout is produced and marketed by Shell Lubricants. The term ‘Shell Lubricants’ collectively refers to the companies of Royal Dutch Shell plc that are engaged in the lubricants business. Shell Lubricants companies lead the lubricants industry, supplying 13% of global lubricants volume.a The companies manufacture and blend products for use in applications ranging from consumer motor oil and food processing oils to heavy industrial lubricants and commercial transport oils. The Shell Lubricants portfolio of top-quality brands includes Pennzoil®, Quaker State®, FormulaShell®, Shell TELLUS®, Shell CASSIDA®, Shell RIMULA®, Shell ROTELLA® T, Shell SPIRAX®, a portfolio of leading car care brands and Jiffy Lube® lubrication services.

Posted On 1/11/10

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SafeRacer Named Sponsor of SCCA National Racing Series

Thu, 31 Dec 2009 12:30:17 PST

SafeRacer Named Sponsor of SCCA National Racing Series
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Dec. 31, 2009) – Sports Car Club of America announced a multi-year partnership in which SafeRacer will become the title sponsor of the National Club Racing program. The approximately 70-race National program will be referred to as the “SafeRacer SCCA National Racing Series” beginning in 2010.

“SafeRacer has supported the Club Racing program in various ways over the last several years and we’re excited that it has expanded its support to become the sponsor of the National Racing Series,” SCCA President and CEO Jeff Dahnert said. “One of our main focuses this year will be on developing partnerships that not only support SCCA’s business, but its participant members as well.”

As part of the sponsorship, SafeRacer will provide $15,000 in certificates to be distributed to class Champions in the nationwide point championship. The nationwide point Championship combines divisional Championship points and bonus points for the number of racers a driver finishes ahead of to crown one overall point Champion each year.

In addition, SafeRacer will offer direct product discounts to participants in the SafeRacer SCCA National Racing Series.

“We are a company made up of SCCA racers and we’re excited to be able to support our fellow racers with the SafeRacer SCCA National Racing Series,” SafeRacer CEO Charlie James said.

Racers competing in Nationally-sanctioned events will replace the traditional “SCCA Club Racing” decal with the new SafeRacer SCCA National Racing Series decal as part of the program. Decals will be available soon at no charge for the first set and will be required for all races after March 1, 2010.

Profiles

SCCA
Founded in 1944, Sports Car Club of America, Inc. is a 50,000 member motorsports organization that incorporates all facets of autocross, rally and road racing at both club and professional levels. It annually sanctions over 2,000 events through its 114 regions and professional subsidiary. Landmark events and series for the Club include the SafeRacer SCCA National Racing Series; the Club Racing National Championship Runoffs® at Road America; and The Tire Rack® SCCA Solo National Championships and ProSolo Championship at Lincoln, Neb. For more information, please visit www.scca.com.

SAFERACER
Located in Neosho, Mo., SafeRacer is the country’s number one source for racing safety equipment. Featuring products from the highest quality manufacturers, including HANS, Alpine Stars, Sparco, Oakley, Arai, G-Force, Bell, Simpson and FAST, SafeRacer has a great variety of helmets, suits, gloves, shoes, underwear and seats for every budget. SafeRacer’s 25,000 square-foot facility includes more than $1million in inventory. To satisfy your safety needs, visit www.saferacer.com.

Posted On 12/31/09

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MX-5 Cup Changes Road America Date

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 01:59:05 PST

MX-5 Cup Changes Road America Date
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Dec. 22, 2009) – Following the announcement that the NASCAR Nationwide Series will race at Road America, in Elkhart Lake, Wis., for the first time in the legendary track’s history, Mazda has revealed that the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup will now participate in the June 18 – 20 weekend, in place of the previously announced Road America date.

When the 2010 MX-5 Cup schedule was previously announced, Road America appeared as Round Eight, on Aug. 20 – 22. With the addition of the Nationwide Series to the 2010 Road America calendar, Mazda has chosen to move the MX-5 Cup race to the June 18 – 20 weekend. It will be the first time MX-5 Cup has raced alongside the Nationwide Series. MX-5 Cup will complete a line up that also includes the SCCA Pro Racing Trans-Am Series.

“Though we hate to change the schedule so soon after announcing it at PRI, switching the Road America dates had several benefits,” Alternative Marketing Manager for Mazda North American Operations Jim Jordan said. “Having raced on the August weekend at Road America for the past two years, we know how full that schedule can be, putting track time at a premium. Taking MX-5 Cup to the new June event with Nationwide will ensure the teams have all the track time they need, not to mention a huge crowd on hand to watch.”

“MX-5 Cup always puts on a good show at Road America, so we’re happy they could join us for this exciting new weekend,” Road America President George Bruggenthies said. “With the addition of this great spec series, the Road America 200 weekend is shaping up to be a great show for race fans.”

The SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup will continue to hold a total of 11 races at eight venues.

Posted On 12/22/09

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Club Racing Contingency Programs for 2010 Now Posted

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 01:55:53 PST

Club Racing Contingency Programs for 2010 Now Posted
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Dec. 22, 2009) – With a new season of racing just around the corner, SCCA Club Racers can now begin to register for contingency programs.

Three auto manufacturers, Volkswagen of America, Mazda North American Operations and Toyota/TRD have committed to contingency programs in 2010. Volkswagen will make payments to top-three finishers in selected National classes, paying as much as $1500 for a win. Additionally, Volkswagen is offering $150 for a Regional race win in nine classes. Mazda will also make payouts to eligible drivers who finish in the top three at a National Club race. Those payments more than double for a podium finish at the June Sprints. Bonus money from Mazda and Volkswagen is available for a Divisional Championship as well. Toyota will reward either $800 or $400 for a National race win depending on which class the victory came in.

Four tire makers are in the 2010 contingency mix, with Toyo, BFGoodrich, Goodyear and Hoosier all posting programs. As the spec tire for the Spec Miata class, Toyo will pay prize money to the top eight finishers at every National race, plus award each eligible Divisional Champion with $1,500. Posting in five classes, BFG will award race winners with two free tires and second-place finishers with one free tire. Goodyear will also award two free tires to race winners in select classes. Free tires are also to be won by eligible Hoosier drivers, who will earn two free tires for a win and one free tire for finishing second.

A new contingency sponsor, TreadZone.com, is also ready to help drivers get their hands on some tires and wheels. Posting in all National and Regional classes, TreadZone has developed a point system by which drivers can accumulate points to use toward purchases on tires and wheels at TreadZone.com. Eligible drivers can even earn bonus points by making purchases at TreadZone.com or by submitting national racing publications in which their car appears. The program also offers the potential to win free Toyo, BFG and Hankook Tires, plus Team Dynamics wheels, at the end of the season. Full details on the TreadZone contingency program are available on the SCCA Web site.

AST Suspension is another new name to the contingency roster. Drivers in select classes do not necessarily need to finish on the podium to collect prizes with this new program. AST is offering a $500 product certificate for a race win and a $250 product certificate for finishing fifth.

The iRacing.com program for National and Regional Club Racing has gone unchanged. The program continues to offer registered drivers a $15 iRacing.com credit for finishing in the top three, or a free one-month subscription to iRacing.com for those who are not already members.

With the addition of Touring 3 to their program, Summit Racing Equipment will post in eight National classes in 2010. The performance parts retailer is offering $125 for a race win, $75 for a runner-up finish and $50 for a third-place finish to eligible drivers.

Contingency registration forms and detailed information on these programs are now posted at www.scca.com. Select the Club Racing tab and then “contingencies” from the left-hand menu. Drivers should read the program requirements carefully and be sure to have the necessary paperwork turned in before their first event.

Keep checking www.scca.com for additional Club Racing contingencies as they become available.

Posted On 12/22/09

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Toyo Tires Selects Dawn Jaro as World Challenge Fan Focus Model Search Winner

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 01:51:06 PST

Toyo Tires Selects Dawn Jaro as World Challenge Fan Focus Model Search Winner
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Dec. 22, 2009) – From a field of more than 30 young women, Toyo Tires has selected Dawn Jaro, of Suwanee, Ga., as the 2009 World Challenge Fan Focus Model Search contest winner.

A joint promotion between Toyo Tires and Performance Auto and Sound Magazine, the Fan Focus Model Search accepts applications from aspiring young models looking for the chance to become an official World Challenge promotional model. From the hundreds of applicants, only three ladies are selected per event to work alongside World Challenge teams and fans. Following the conclusion of the racing season, the list is narrowed down to 10 women, from which Toyo Tires selects one lucky winner to receive a free Web site from ModelsDesired.com (a $599 value) and an interview with Toyo for a coveted promotional modeling contract.

Twenty-seven year old Jaro was selected as the top model of 2009. Jaro already had a great deal of experience as a promotional model at automotive events before her work with World Challenge at Road Atlanta. Staff and fans were impressed with her poise in the fast-paced track environment and photographers found her a natural in front of the camera.

“The Fan Focus Model Search always attracts an impressive field of modeling talent,” Toyo Tires Manager of Events and Motorsports Stan Chen said. “Selecting a winner gets harder every year, but we felt that Dawn’s credentials and the ease with which she adapted to each task handed her, gave her an edge.”

With the race they attended in parentheses, the models joining Jaro in the top 10 are: Emily Sutta (Road America), Gina Latino (Mazda Raceway), Ina Prifti (Mid-Ohio), Kimmi Kight (Long Beach), Mercedes Montalvo (Road Atlanta), Michelle Sacco (Road Atlanta), Nicole O’Connell (New Jersey), Paris Fillmore (Sebring) and Samantha Goldsmith (Watkins Glen). Each of the top 10 finalists will receive a free web modeling portfolio from ModelsDesired.com, a $250 value. All remaining models will be provided with a $150 gift certificate for a ModelsDesired.com Web Modeling Portfolio.

The 2010 Fan Focus Model Search will be launched shortly at www.world-challenge.com/modelsearch.

Posted On 12/22/09

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RallyCross 2010 Contingency Programs Now Available

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 01:48:28 PST

RallyCross 2010 Contingency Programs Now Available
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Dec. 22, 2009) – The start of the 2010 SCCA RallyCross National Challenge season is less than a month away, which is still plenty of time to register for 2010 RallyCross contingency programs.

Volkswagen of America, Inc. will continue its program in 2010 and post prize money for all classes. The German marque is offering registered Volkswagen drivers $200 for a class win and $100 for a runner-up finish.

Subaru will also return in 2010, offering prize money to registered competitors in the three All-Wheel Drive categories. Payouts will be offered to top-three finishers with $300 awarded for a win. Prize money more than doubles at the Eastern and Western States Championships where a win will net $750, and increases once again for the RallyCross National Championship, where Subaru is prepared to award $1,250 for a win.

Posting in the Prepared and Modified classes, Team Dynamics is posting a $100 product certificate for a win on their wheels and a $50 certificate for finishing second. Those values increase to $200 and $100, respectively, at the RallyCross National Championship.

Registration forms and full program details are available at www.scca.com/rally by selecting “Contingencies” from the left-side menu. Drivers are encouraged to review program requirements carefully to ensure full compliance. To be eligible for contingency prizes, drivers must register for each program prior to their first event. More programs will be posted as they become available.

Posted On 12/22/09

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Trans-Am Joins Nationwide Series at Road America

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 02:02:01 PST

Trans-Am Joins Nationwide Series at Road America
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Dec. 21, 2009) – The SCCA Pro Racing Trans-Am Series will join the NASCAR Nationwide Series for its recently announced event at Road America, June 18 - 20.

Following the announcement that the Nationwide Series will add a third road race to its schedule when it heads to Road America, in Elkhart Lake, Wis., on June 18 – 20, the Trans-Am Series is pleased to announce that it will join the bill for the Road America 200 weekend.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for the SCCA Pro Racing Trans-Am Series,” SCCA Pro Racing President and CEO Robert Wildberger said. “NASCAR puts on a spectacular show and brings with it a strong and dedicated fan base. The thunderous racing that is Trans-Am will fit in well with the Nationwide Series. I anticipate our Trans-Am fans will witness some great racing over the weekend.”

The Trans-Am Series is tentatively scheduled to practice on Friday, qualify before Saturday’s Nationwide race and close out the weekend by headlining Sunday’s events.

“We’re thrilled that Trans-Am will be a part of the Road America 200 weekend lineup,” Road America President George Bruggenthies said. “Trans-Am has been a big part of Road America’s history and will continue to be as it joins us for our first Nationwide event.”

Now entering its 43rd season, Trans-Am has held more races at Road America than any other track. The series has made the trip to Elkhart Lake, Wis., for 36 consecutive years (1970 – 2005) and returned in 2009.

While the 2009 Trans-Am season concluded at Road America, in 2010, the four-mile track slots in between events at Miller Motorsports Park and Lime Rock Park. Eight races of the planned 10-race schedule have now been announced.

Posted On 12/21/09

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SCCA RallyCross National Challenge Schedule Released

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 02:08:44 PST

SCCA RallyCross National Challenge Schedule Released
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Dec. 18, 2009) – The 2010 SCCA RallyCross National Challenge schedule is now available, though several dates remain tentative. The schedule is highlighted by a return to Fountain, Colo., for the 2010 SCCA RallyCross National Championship, which moves to August.

The 2010 SCCA RallyCross National Challenge season is composed of a dozen events which span the entire continental U.S., from New England to the Pacific Coast and from the Midwest to the Deep South. Several dates and sites have yet to be secured, so participants are encouraged to keep checking the SCCA Web site for updates.

The RallyCross National Championship will return to the U.S. Truck Driving School in Fountain, Colo., in 2010. To avoid the snow and ice of the 2009 event, the 2010 RallyCross National Championship will move to a summer date, Aug. 20 – 22.

“We enjoy the elements in RallyCross, but what we experienced at the RallyCross National Championship this year was a bit extreme,” SCCA Rally Manager Pego Mack said. “By moving the event to August, we can expect more comfortable weather. Plus, those that bring their families with them can turn it into a summer vacation trip.”

The U.S. Truck Driving School was chosen to host the RallyCross National Championship for a second year in-a-row thanks to its excellent hardpack under gravel surface that offers minimal degradation. The site is also near Colorado Springs, which offers plenty of lodging, dining and attractions. Many comments were paid to the Colorado and Continental Divide Regions, whose combined efforts allowed two courses to be run simultaneously.

“The Colorado and Continental Divide Regions did a tremendous job with last year’s Championship,” Mack added. “Ken Cashion and crew were also key to the success of the event and I know Ken and his team are already plotting for 2010.”

Posted On 12/18/09

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SCCA Names Key Events, Adjusts Points Criteria for Super Sweep Award

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 02:10:58 PST

SCCA Names Key Events, Adjusts Points Criteria for Super Sweep Award
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Dec. 17, 2009) – Sports Car Club of America has selected the nine National races that will serve as qualifiers for the 2010 SCCA Club Racing Super Sweep Award. Additionally, it has been revealed that, while it will continue to serve as a leg of the Super Sweep, the National Championship Runoffs will no longer be counted toward the nationwide point standings.

The SCCA Club Racing Super Sweep Award was created in 2009 and is the most difficult accomplishment a driver can achieve. To win the award, a driver must complete all four tasks in the same class, those tasks being: win one of nine key National races, win a divisional class championship, be named class champion in the nationwide points championship and win the SCCA National Championship Runoffs.

The nine key races for the 2010 race season are as follows:

Jan. 24 – Auto Club Speedway (SoPac)
March 6 – Texas World Speedway (Southwest)*
March 20 – Thunderhill (NorPac)*
March 21 – Road Atlanta (Southeast)
May 2 – Heartland Park Topeka (Midwest)
May 23 – Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course (Great Lakes)
June 27 – Road America June Sprints (Central)
July 3 – High Plains Raceway (Rocky Mountain)*
July 11 – Watkins Glen International (Northeast)
* - Double race weekend, must win first race

While five of the selected races remain the same as last year, several were moved to reflect events that attracted large car counts, and good competition, in 2009.

The nationwide point structure, which awarded base points per the GCR and a bonus point for each starting car a driver beat, previously included the National Championship Runoffs, which awarded double base points and put no cap on bonus points. To simplify the process, the Runoffs have been removed from the nationwide point standings, thereby ensuring that winning the race will be the sole factor in determining whether a driver has completed the Super Sweep.

“Winning the Super Sweep continues to be a very difficult achievement,” SCCA President and CEO Jeff Dahnert said. “The drivers who can run the table and complete all four requirements of the Super Sweep are truly exceptional.”

Seven drivers earned the SCCA Club Racing Super Sweep Award in its inaugural season: Garry Crook (DSR), Cliff Ebben (GT-1), Joel Lipperini (SSC), Juan Marchand (FM), Mark Mercer (S2000), Mirl Swan (FA) and Michael Varacins (FV). More information on the Super Sweep, including the latest nationwide point standings as they become available, can be found by selecting “National” from the left-hand menu at www.scca.com/club.

Posted On 12/17/09

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Additional Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Broadcast Dates Released

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 02:15:03 PST

Additional Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Broadcast Dates Released
By Volkswagen America

HERNDON, Va. (Dec. 16, 2009) – Beginning January 18, the SCCA Pro Racing Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup documentary, “Racing Under Green” will begin airing on the Discovery Communications networks. Additionally, broadcast dates and times for the remainder of the 2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup race season on SPEED have been set.

“Racing Under Green,” a one-hour documentary film about the 2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup season will air multiple times across Discovery Communications networks. A preview of the documentary is already available online, as Volkswagen has released the long-form trailer on YouTube. To view the trailer, go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mnHaIVGou8U.

2009 “Racing Under Green” Documentary Film Broadcast Schedule
(All times Eastern, check local listings for channel information)

January 18th @ 2 a.m. on Discovery Channel (Premiere)
January 19th @ 9 p.m. on Planet Green
January 22nd @ 7 a.m. on Science Channel
January 24th @ 10 p.m. and 1 a.m. on HD Theater
January 25th @ 6 p.m. on HD Theater
January 29th @ 3 p.m. and 5 a.m. on HD Theater
January 30th @ 8 a.m. on HD Theater

Race coverage of the 2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup season has already been airing on SPEED TV. Three more broadcasts are now scheduled for the coming weeks (all times Eastern, check local listings for channel information):

December 20th @ 5:30 p.m. – Race #7, Mosport International Raceway
January 3rd @ 6 p.m. – Race #8 & #9, New Jersey Motorsports Park
January 3rd @ 6:30 p.m. – Race #10, Road Atlanta

About Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup
The SCCA Pro Racing Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup was launched in 2008 as way to introduce clean diesel technology to the U.S. market and develop the best of motorsport’s up-and-coming talent. During the season, young, up and coming drivers (between ages 16-26) compete on road courses around North America in identical factory-prepared clean diesel Jetta TDI’s. Each driver competing in the series earns a Pro Racing license from SCCA at the conclusion of the season. In addition to more than $50,000 in prize money at stake during the season, the series champion receives Volkswagen factory career advancement support with a value up to $100,000.

The Jetta TDI Cup car is powered by a 2.0-liter, 170 hp, four-cylinder TDI clean diesel engine mated to a six-speed, double-clutch, automatic DSG transmission. The car is only slightly modified from stock with Pirelli racing tires, race suspension and brake components, drivers racing safety seat, FIA roll cage and an on-board fire extinguisher system. Series sponsors include: Pirelli, Bosch, ViON, Castrol, Oakley, Red Bull, HYPERFUELS, Aggreko, defNder, Lamin-X, Meguiar’s, Sherwin-Williams, Chicagoland VW, Safety-Kleen, Ringer Gloves, Jim Russell Racing School and Trellis Earth.

Posted On 12/16/09

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Mazda Releases 2010 SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup Schedule

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 02:22:18 PST

Mazda Releases 2010 SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup Schedule
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Dec. 14, 2009) – MAZDASPEED chose the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show to announce the 2010 SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup schedule. The 2010 schedule keeps with the theory of the latest MX-5 vehicle updates; making small changes to an already strong product.

In creating the 2010 schedule, Mazda sought to reduce travel costs for MX-5 Cup teams while increasing the amount of track time. It was also important to minimize conflicts with other major race weekends and give MX-5 Cup participants the opportunity to experience the best race tracks in North America. With a total of 11 races on eight weekends, it appears as though Mazda has done just that.

“Developing a schedule is a complex task and Mazda appreciates the efforts of the tracks and sanctioning bodies in meeting our racers needs,” Alternative Marketing Manager for Mazda North American Operations Jim Jordan said. “The use of three doubleheader weekends allows our teams to maximize race time, while minimizing travel costs. With our partners at Playboy, BFGoodrich Tires, and SCCA Pro Racing, we have a well developed program and are looking forward to another great year of racing.”

The 2010 MX-5 Cup season will begin where 2009 ended, in Alton, Va., at VIRginia International Raceway. MX-5 Cup will race alongside the Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series on April 23 - 25.

The series has a quick trip south to Braselton, Ga., the following weekend. There, MX-5 Cup will take part in the Classic Motorsports Mitty at Road Atlanta for the fourth year in-a-row, April 30 – May 2.

MX-5 Cup will return to its birthplace, Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, in Monterey, Calif., May 21 – 23. Round Three of the series will be a part of the Monterey Sports Car Championships Presented by Patron with the American Le Mans Series.

The first of three doubleheaders will take place at New Jersey Motorsports Park, in Millville, N.J., June 25 – 27. MX-5 Cup will once again be part of an all-Mazdaspeed weekend.

The series will have a month off before the next doubleheader, July 30 – Aug. 1, at Autobahn Country Club, located just outside of Chicago, Ill. Like New Jersey, the event will host all of the Mazdaspeed Ladder series, including two MX-5 Cup races.

MX-5 Cup then begins a northward trek, first stopping at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wis., Aug. 20 – 22, before crossing the Canadian border the following weekend to race at Mosport international Raceway, Aug. 27 – 29. Both events are with the American Le Mans Series.

Just like 2009, the 2010 season will end with a doubleheader. Rounds 10 and 11 will be held at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah. The MX-5 Cup finale will run alongside the Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series finale, Sept. 10 – 12.

Races from the 2009 MX-5 Cup season continue to air in syndication on various cable and satellite networks. A full schedule is available on the series Web site. All MX-5 Cup TV programming form the 2009 season is also available on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/MazdaMX5Cup). The latest MX-5 Cup news is available at www.mx-5cup.com and on Twitter @MazdaMX5Cup.

Posted On 12/14/09

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Volkswagen Announces "Racing Under Green" Broadcast Schedule

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 02:19:43 PST

Volkswagen Announces "Racing Under Green" Broadcast Schedule
By Volkswagen of America

HERNDON, Va. (Dec. 14, 2009) – In motorsports, there’s more to the action than what’s seen on the track by fans. Beginning the week of January 18, all of the behind-the-scenes drama of the country’s only professional clean diesel racing series will hit national television with a documentary on the season, titled “Racing Under Green."

The 60-minute documentary takes an inside look at all of the elements that make the series unique. During the season, a broadcast crew followed the series’ 25 drivers and key leadership on track and off to capture the personalities behind the wheel of the equally-prepared Jetta TDI Cup racecars. The documentary was shot in high definition and also explores the environmentally-friendly aspects of the series, from biodiesel blends used to power the cars on the racetrack to the series’ support of CarbonFund.org. The documentary will air at various times on Discovery Communications’ Discovery Channel, Science Channel, Planet Green, and HD Theater from January 18-31. Check local cable listings for channel information and broadcast times.

“We’re really pleased with the broadcast products that have been produced on the 2009 series, and I think that it’s going to make for some great TV,” said Clark Campbell, motorsport manager, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “The film crew followed some of our drivers to their hometowns, so viewers will get to see many of the drivers’ stories away from the race track. There are also many behind-the-scenes elements of our series that even people who are at the racetrack don’t see, and these broadcasts will really let people take a look inside the Jetta TDI Cup.”

Volkswagen is currently accepting driver applications for the 2010 season at www.vwmotorsportusa.com. Potential driver candidates must be between the ages of 16 and 26 as of January 1, 2010 and hold a passport from the U.S., Canada or Mexico. In addition, drivers entering the series for the first time must not have competed in any professional racing series regardless of location. Applicants must submit their application along with a season entry fee of $45,000 by December 11, 2009 in order to be considered as a candidate. The entry fee will be fully refunded to those not chosen as a 2010 series driver.

From the driver applications, up to 125 candidates will be selected to attend the Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup final driver selection event that will be held February 7-9 in Las Vegas. This event will determine the 25-driver lineup for the 2010 season. The final driver selection event includes three days of professional driving instruction, autocross competition, track time in a Jetta TDI Cup car, physical fitness training, a sponsorship development workshop, marketing and media training, and Volkswagen brand familiarization.

About Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup
The SCCA Pro Racing Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup was launched in 2008 as way to introduce clean diesel technology to the U.S. market and develop the best of motorsport’s up-and-coming talent. During the season, young, up and coming drivers (between ages 16-26) compete on road courses around North America in identical factory-prepared clean diesel Jetta TDI’s. Each driver competing in the series earns a Pro Racing license from SCCA at the conclusion of the season. In addition to more than $50,000 in prize money at stake during the season, the series champion receives Volkswagen factory career advancement support with a value up to $100,000.

The Jetta TDI Cup car is powered by a 2.0-liter, 170 hp, four-cylinder TDI clean diesel engine mated to a six-speed, double-clutch, automatic DSG transmission. The car is only slightly modified from stock with Pirelli racing tires, race suspension and brake components, drivers racing safety seat, FIA roll cage and an on-board fire extinguisher system. Series sponsors include: Pirelli, Bosch, ViON, Castrol, Oakley, Red Bull, HYPERFUELS, Aggreko, defNder, Lamin-X, Meguiar’s, Sherwin-Williams, Chicagoland VW, Safety-Kleen, Ringer Gloves, Jim Russell Racing School and Trellis Earth.

Follow the Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup series action on:

www.vwmotorsportusa.com

www.tditruthanddare.com

Volkswagen Online Newsroom: media.vw.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/VWJettaTDICup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/VWJettaTDICup

Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Golf, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Eos, Passat, Passat wagon, CC, Tiguan, Touareg and Routan through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. All 2009 Volkswagens come standard-equipped with Electronic Stabilization Program. This is important because the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has ca

Posted On 12/14/09

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BMW CCA Club Racing Expands Classes

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 10:43:24 PST

BMW CCA Club Racing Expands Classes
By Mark Dadgar, BMW CCA Club Racing Staff

Greenville, SC (December 11, 2008) -- BMW CCA Club Racing is delighted to announce that beginning in 2009 it will accept BMW race cars prepared to other sanctioning bodies’ class rules. These cars will run within their foreign classes at BMW CCA Club Racing-sanctioned events.

BMW CCA Club Racing has a well-defined set of rules with five preparation levels and classes that were designed to be inclusive, providing a place for members to race their cars. Currently there are some provisions for BMWs that may not meet the specific preparation requirements to participate within the existing class structure. The change maintains the BMW CCA Club Racing classes while welcoming BMW’s prepared to other road racing classes as well.

The non-BMW CCA Club Racing classes will be integrated into the program following the BMW CCA Club Racing rules with one exception; they will not be eligible for National Championship points. However, they will participate for Regional Championships in their respective classes; this is, of course, independent of the sanctioning body for whose class the car is prepared.

While BMW CCA Club Racings preparation levels and classes have a place for all race prepared BMWs, this change recognizes several factors: 1) The BMW CCA Club Racing program is limited. With only 40 events per year there may not be enough activity in the area near the members to warrant their preparing a car to the BMW CCA Club Racing rules and another sanctioning body may provide more events locally. With this change they can participate in both their local series and the BMW CCA Club Racing series equally. 2) When prepared to other sanctioning bodies rules the drivers may be disadvantaged when classed with cars fully prepared to the BMW CCA Club Racing rules. With this change drivers can participate in two series with the same preparation rules. 3) The potential for larger fields at any given event provides excitement for the participants and incentive for the promoters.

About BMW CCA Club Racing
Founded in 1995, BMW CCA Club Racing offers all BMW CCA licensed club racers a competitive driving experience conducted in a fun, safe, and friendly environment for all types of factory authorized or constructed BMWs. For more information, please visit our web site at http://www.bmwccaclubracing.com

About BMW CCA
The BMW Car Club of America has over 76,000 members and 65 chapters within the United States. BMW CCA's mission is to enhance the BMW experience for its members by providing services, support, information, and activities that promote camaraderie and encourage social awareness and responsibility. The BMW CCA National Office may be reached at (864) 250-0022.

Contact:
Mark Dadgar
Marketing Director, BMW CCA Club Racing
mark@justracing.com
(408) 348-2878

Posted On 12/11/08

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New SPEED TC Rules Package to Cut Costs, Development

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 01:13:23 PST

New SPEED TC Rules Package to Cut Costs, Development
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (Oct. 23, 2008) – SCCA Pro Racing has released changes to its 2009 rules package for the SCCA SPEED Touring Car Championship, designed to reduce both engineering development and cost to race teams.

“When I first took on this job less than a year ago, one of the main things that was evident was the need to scale back the investment necessary to run at the front of Touring Car,” SCCA Technical and Competition Director Ken Tripkos said. “The racing at the front of the series is outstanding and we have dedicated teams doing an excellent job. However, both real and perceived costs have diminished the size of the overall field and that needs to be addressed.”

The new rules package reduces both permitted suspension modifications and overall power output of the engines.

New cars for 2009 will retain stock suspension pickup points and the overall ride height will be raised from 3.0 inches to 3.5 inches.

“Much of the developmental cost and engineering in a Touring Car is in the chassis and suspension,” Tripkos said. “With the previous ability to relocate suspension pickup points within a certain radius, teams were completely re-engineering good factory setups to try to get down to the permitted ride height.”

Engine power outputs will be developmentally limited to approximately 260hp (a five percent reduction from 2008). The acceleration performance rate will be based closely on that of a stock BMW 330i. Stock transmissions will be utilized unless a necessity is proven for a stronger component. Additionally, full diameter clutch discs are required with stock diameter, ferrous flywheels.

“The power needed to be competitive has put both real and perceived strains on other components within the engine and drivetrain,” Tripkos added. “While there will need to be some alternate components and development for the smaller motors, most of the powerplants will remain largely unmodified in both the rotating assembly and the cylinder heads.

“Less power and stress at the clutch will promote longer gearbox life and allow some cars to retain their stock and stock-type components, reducing costs.”

“We’ve received a lot of input and support from manufacturers, current teams and potential teams, and we have made some positive changes to the Touring Car Championship rules to reduce the cost of entry and maintenance costs throughout the season,” SCCA Pro Racing President & CEO Robert Wildberger said. “We’ve done this while recognizing that the SPEED Touring Car Championship had some of the most competitive racing between brands in any North American series in 2008 and many of our teams have considerable investments. The goal is to promote growth without diminishing the current product. We believe that the new rules will accomplish this.”

Current cars will continue to be eligible for competition, with adjustments to balance with cars built to 2009 specifications.

2009 SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Rules Change Summary

Pickup Points
      2008 – Pickup points may be moved
      2009 – Original pickup points must be retained

Ride Height
      2008 – 3” ride height minimum
      2009 – 3.5” ride height minimum

Wheelbase and track
      2008 – Unspecified
      2009 – Specifications established for each model

Spindle modifications to correct bump steer
      2008 – Permitted
      2009 – Not permitted. May be corrected through offset bushings and/or tie rods

Flywheel
      2008 – Ferrous or Aluminum
      2009 – Ferrous only

Clutch
      2008 – Unrestricted clutch and pressure plate design
      2009 – Stock diameter clutch required

Gearboxes
      2008 – Standard or alternate sequential gearboxes permitted
      2009 – If approved based on need, sequential gearboxes will carry an up-front penalty to balance performance potential

Gears
      2008 – Cars permitted one set of gear ratios and two final drive ratios
      2009 – Cars permitted one set of gear ratios and one final drive ratio

Dry Sump Oiling System
      2008 – Permitted with 10lb penalty
      2009 – Considered for approval on case-by-case basis

Water Pumps
      2008 – Mechanical or electric water pumps permitted
      2009 – OE-type water pumps required

The complete 2009 SCCA Pro Racing Rules will be released in November. Additional information about the 2009 Touring Car rules package changes can be found in participant bulletin 20 at http://www.world-challenge.com/files/competitors/WCPB20-2008.pdf

Posted On 10/23/08

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SCCA Begins Search Process for Executive Succession

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 11:01:53 PST

SCCA Begins Search Process for Executive Succession
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Oct. 16, 2008) – Sports Car Club of America’s Board of Directors announced today that it has begun a process to find the Club’s next president. Current SCCA President and CEO Jim Julow informed the Board of his intention to leave the post at the end of his three-year contract, February 1, 2009.

“While we were saddened to hear that Jim will not be extending his contract, change brings opportunity,” SCCA Chairman R.J. Gordy said. “Jim has brought tremendous business operations acumen to the position, and we believe it has changed the business side of the Club in a very positive manner. We now look ahead to the opportunity to expand on what Jim has brought the last three years.”

Julow intends to serve his full contract that named him to the post in 2006.

“I will do everything I can to help transition SCCA to its next president,” Julow said. “It is a great organization with great members, and I will miss the interaction with the individuals that make the Club special. However, over the last several months, it has become clear that the Board and I disagree on the amount of change the Club needs and the pace at which that change needs to occur. For that reason, we differ philosophically, and it’s best for the Club and its future to make a change moving forward that will bring the board and its president much more into alignment.”

The new executive search will be led by a search committee, made up of members of the current SCCA Board of Directors with outside counsel. The Board has also determined a slight change in the duties of the position, including a title change to president and chief operating officer.

“We are seeking candidates with a strong background in marketing and business operations, as well as a solid understanding and appreciation of the Club’s culture,” Gordy said. “The president and COO will lead the staff in executing the policy set forth by the Board of Directors.”

Interested parties should e-mail resumes to presidentsearch@scca.com or fax to (785) 862-7190.

SCCA
Founded in 1944, Sports Car Club of America, Inc. is a 50,000-plus member motorsports organization that incorporates all facets of autocross, rally and road racing at both club and professional levels. It annually sanctions over 2,000 events through its 113 regions and professional subsidiary. Landmark events and series for the Club include the SCCA SPEED World Challenge Championships, the Club Racing National Championship Runoffs®, and The Tire Rack® SCCA Solo National Championships and ProSolo Championship. For more information, please visit www.scca.com.

Posted On 10/16/08

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JustRacing.com Now Has A Facebook Page

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 01:51:48 PST

JustRacing.com Now Has A Facebook Page
By Mark Dadgar, JustRacing.com

JustRacing.com is proud to announce that it now has a Facebook page. If you are a Facebook user, please considering becoming a Fan of JustRacing.com.

Click here to view the JustRacing.com page on Facebook.

Thank you for your support!

Posted On 10/9/08

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MotorsportReg.com and Lockton Affinity Launch Innovative Track Insurance Program

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 07:23:40 PST

MotorsportReg.com and Lockton Affinity Launch Innovative Track Insurance Program
By Mark Dadgar, Pukka Software

Los Gatos, CA (July 29, 2008) – Pukka Software, creators of MotorsportReg.com, and Lockton Affinity today announced the industry’s first comprehensive insurance program for high performance driving event participants. The HPDE Insurance Program, available exclusively via MotorsportReg.com, provides an a la carte, single-event policy designed to provide affordable physical damage coverage to cars used in performance driving schools at race tracks across the United States.

"Many automotive insurance policies now exclude coverage for non-competitive events at motor racing facilities," said Pukka Software founder Brian Ghidinelli. "The HPDE Insurance Program allows enthusiasts to participate in exciting high performance driving schools without risking the vehicle they drive every day."

The HPDE Insurance Program, administered by Lockton Risk Services, offers an agreed-value insurance policy providing primary coverage for incidents in the paddock or on the racing surface whether the vehicle is being driven by the primary driver, co-driver, or instructor. After-market modifications are covered and claims will not affect participants’ street insurance rates or claim histories. $10,000 of damage coverage can be had for as little as $67. HPDE Insurance Program policies are sold online and can be obtained as quickly as 5-10 minutes.

"Car enthusiasts have been asking for an affordable means of insuring their vehicles at driving schools for years," said Ryan Staub, Producer at Lockton Affinity. "We partnered with the most widely adopted event registration service to make this coverage easy to acquire. By offering the HPDE Insurance Program during the registration process, MotorsportReg.com event organizers will tap into additional participants who could not previously join in the fun."

The HPDE Insurance Program is initially available to attendees of non-competitive driving events hosted by BMW Car Club of America, Porsche Club of America, Audi Club North America, and Triangle-Z Car Club. Other organizations wishing to have their programs approved for the HPDE Insurance Program should contact Lockton Affinity.

Please visit http://www.MotorsportReg.com/index.cfm/event/hpdeinsurance for more information or to purchase an HPDE Insurance Program policy.

About Pukka Software
Pukka Software provides the MotorsportReg.com Event Management Platform, which enables event organizers and staff to streamline their operations via a comprehensive web-based service. Complete with tools such as calendar management, online payment processing, email blaster, and extensive reporting functionality, MotorsportReg.com reduces red tape and makes event management fun again. Organizers from every major enthusiast organization including the BMW CCA, Porsche Club of America, Audi Club North America, SVTOA and SCCA use MotorsportReg.com to manage social and driving events across North America.

About Lockton Affinity
Starting as a modest, home-based insurance agency in 1966, Lockton Companies has become the largest privately-held insurance brokerage firm in the world. Lockton Affinity, an affiliate of Lockton Companies, was formed in 1987 to meet the specialized, dynamic needs of affinity groups. Today they administer over 90 insurance programs and are one of the leading insurance program administrators in the US.

Contact:

Pukka Software:
Mark Dadgar
mark@pukkasoft.com
(415) 462-5603

Lockton Affinity:
Ryan Staub
rstaub@locktonaffinity.com
(866) 582-4957

Posted On 7/29/08

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Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup TV Package Announced

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 02:47:17 PST

Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup TV Package Announced
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

IRVINE, Calif. (July 9, 2008) - After months of hard work following the open wheel unification in February, which turned many support series’ schedules upside down, Mazda has announced the 2008 TV package for the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup. The series will have all eight races broadcast in an expanded 60-minute package by DIRECTV and DISH Network. All content will be produced by the Carolinas Production Group/Visioncast.

Race fans from coast-to-coast with DIRECTV or DISH Network will find the races broadcast on Comcast Sports Net West (CSN West) and MASN (Mid Atlantic Sports Net), both a part of their sports paks. In addition to national coverage, the races will be broadcast regionally on Time Warner Sports Net, LoneStar Sports Net, Comcast 900 Sports, MavTV, AmericaOne Network, and AMGTV. Each race will have multiple broadcasts. Additional channels may be added as the season progresses.

“In just two years, the MX-5 Cup has established a reputation for great racing, extremely close action, with a minimum of yellow flag time,” Mazda North American Operations Alternative Marketing Manager Jim Jordan said. “To better showcase the races, and allow for more feature stories we have stepped up our TV package to a full one-hour program per race. Airtimes will vary by region but will reach over 53 million households when the first race airs this week. When we asked our racers, and our fans what they most wanted to see changed for 2008, the number one answer was show the complete race, and the 60 minute format will allow for that. We are also pleased to have new partners like Playboy and LifeLock joining Mazda and Kumho for the broadcasts.”

In what is believed to be a first for a professional series, the races will also be available online via a dedicated YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/MazdaMX5Cup). Each race will be available on demand.

The broadcast team is led by veteran Rick Benjamin, with analysis provided by racer Elliott Forbes-Robinson, aka “EFR”. EFR is still very much hands-on and lapped with the MX-5 racers in a Road Atlanta practice session. Pit reporters will be a rotation of Derek Pernesiglio, Todd Lewis and Rod Albright. Joe Ligon and Tom Gee will produce the shows. All have extensive motorsports backgrounds and know their way around a racetrack.

"I'm excited our company has the opportunity to take this outstanding motorsports series and add major elements of creativity and production value to its broadcast coverage,” Carolina Group Prodcutions’ Benjamin said. “We've been able to work with a terrific platform created by Mazda and its partners in the MX-5 Cup series and create coverage for this series that I think will help it become an even bigger factor in professional racing. We've been able to put together a network-level broadcast crew to cover the series, and I think fans and stakeholders in the championship will be pleased with what they'll see this season and beyond."

“I had never driven an MX-5 Miata before and was impressed with the brakes and handling of the car, when I took a few laps at Road Atlanta,” Forbes-Robinson said. “After watching the first race of the year at the Mitty weekend I could tell that the series has quite a few drivers that do a really good job of racing. The qualifying and the racing is very close and the drivers were not making crazy moves and raced well together. The race was fantastic and I am looking forward to working with Rick Benjamin on the rest of the races in 2008.”

Round One of the 2008 MX-5 Cup season at Road Atlanta recently aired on July 8th. Round Two from Mosport International Raceway is scheduled to air the week of July 21. Detailed broadcast schedules will be posted shortly to both www.mx-5cup.com and www.mazdaspeeddevelopment.com.

About SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup:
Stepping up in place of the former MAZDASPEED Miata Cup, the SCCA Pro Racing Mazda MX-5 Cup made its debut in 2006. Featuring identical Mazda MX-5s on spec Kumho tires, MX-5 Cup gives drivers the opportunity to run on high-profile weekends in an economical, entry-level racing series. The 2008 MX-5 Cup schedule features eight races at prestigious events across North America, and with grids composed of roughly 30 cars at each race, MX-5 Cup has become one of the best shows in motorsports today. The season champion is awarded a factory supported Mazda ride in the series above. 2007 MX-5 Cup Champion Jason Saini is racing a MAZDA6 in the 2008 SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship.

About Mazda:
Mazda is the brand of choice for road-racers across North America. More than 9,000 grassroots racers compete in various classes with the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) and the National Auto Sport Association (NASA). Racers who are years away from earning a driver’s license can now begin their professional motorsports careers in the Mazda family. A driver can begin in karts and progress through the Skip Barber series, Club Racing Formula Mazda, professional Star Mazda and finally to Formula Atlantic, all with Mazda. No other car company has ever connected the dots this way.

On any given weekend, there are more Mazdas on the road-race tracks of America than any other brand of vehicle. At the track, you’ll see MX-5 Miata, RX-8, MAZDA3, MAZDA6, RX-7 and other vintage Mazda models competing, because every Mazda has the Soul of a Sports Car. In fact, the largest road-racing class in the world is Spec Miata, with more than 1,500 first- and second-generation Miatas tearing up America’s racetracks, making it the most-raced production car in the world. Mazda’s involvement in motorsports extends to its relationship with Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, one of the world’s premier road-racing circuits, and the Skip Barber Schools for driving and racing. For more information on MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development, visit www.MAZDASPEEDDevelopment.com.

Posted On 7/9/08

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Andy Pilgrim's Living the American Dream

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 11:46:00 PST

Andy Pilgrim's Living the American Dream
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (June 18, 2008) - Andy Pilgrim is a lucky guy. He’ll be the first to tell you that. From racing motorcycles in England, to becoming a Champion road racer in the United States and a GM factory driver, all while growing a successful business, the pieces have all settled into place. Many struggle to accomplish just one of those things, but the English-born Cadillac CTS-V driver makes it look effortless.

In speaking with him however, you’ll find it was far from effortless. It’s his attitude rather, that makes it all seem simple. He prefers it that way.

“Life is what you make it,” Pilgrim says while delving into the politics and frustrations of racing. “If you see things as being a problem, then it’s a problem. You have to see them as a solution. Sometimes, there is no solution and it’s easy, but the best you can do is go forward. What are you going to do? Sit there and sulk about it for the rest of the day or the rest of the year?

“I’ve always been the kind of person that just deals with it. Life is going to throw enough garbage your way without making it worse and creating more garbage. I just think that I’m very lucky to be a professional race car driver, especially as old as I am now and still doing it at a factory level. This is not something I did as a kid, ever. I dreamed I could, but I never though I’d be able to. To still be doing it, I feel so very, very fortunate.”

In a sport as emotionally charged as auto racing, where your destiny doesn’t rest merely on the agility of your arms and legs, but on the performance of the 3,000 lb. machine you’re strapped in to, not to mention the fickleness of a sponsor’s checkbook, that can be a tough lesson to learn. For Pilgrim, appreciating and making the most of what you have, started with motorcycle racing in England.

“My parents didn’t have any money for me to race anything. Nobody in my family raced – there was none of that stuff. When I started racing motorcycles, I had a job as a computer programmer and basically I raced my street motorcycle. I was a fast street rider and I thought ‘well, the only way to see if you’re any good is to go to the track.’ A friend of mine had a van, so I basically paid for his gas and put my bike in the van and he’d drive me to the track. That’s how I started racing motorcycles. I won, what would be the equivalent of some Divisional Championships. I got second in the National British Championships, won some club championships in two and a half years of racing. But the whole idea was that I really wanted to race cars, I just couldn’t afford it. I loved bikes, but I didn’t want a career riding motorcycles, I really wanted to race cars.”

Computer geeks rejoice, because it was programming that gave Pilgrim an opportunity to come to the states and embark on his own ‘American dream.’

“I came here in 1982 and started programming, but of course I had no money for race cars. In 1984, with a friend of mine, I did some autocross, and that’s where I met Randy Pobst for the first time. I didn’t do much of it, but I went to the National Championships one time. A buddy of mine said ‘you need to go road racing,’ and at the time I didn’t know anything about road racing.

“IMSA, at that time, had the Renault Cup series. A buddy of mine in Vegas had a second hand one for $6500. So I had four grand, then I borrowed three grand from a bank manager. I told him I was buying furniture. I figured if he ever actually came to the house to see if I actually bought the furniture, I’d take the seats out of the Renault, stick them in the living room and say ‘here’s my furniture.’ I was working in El Paso at the time. I bought the car in Vegas, left the car in Vegas. I flew from El Paso to Vegas and drove the car to the race track. I slept in the car, didn’t have money for a hotel. I drove to the track, qualified 18th and I think I finished ninth out of 55 cars. I won $500. A set of tires at the time was $140, so it paid for my $55 Southwest Airlines ticket and it paid for my tires for the next race – I though I was in heaven. That’s how racing started for me.”

Pilgrim continued to perform well in a move to the ultra-competitive Firestone Firehawk Series. He started the 1986 season paying for a ride with a team run by Bill Bailey, but eventually impressed Bailey enough to forgo the race payments, as long as he could find his own way to the track. Things continued to get “bigger and better” as he expanded to some Escort Endurance series races as well. Eventually, Pilgrim, who still had a full-time job as a computer programmer was spending more time at the track than in the office.

“In 1989 I was racing too much to keep a full-time job, so at that point I had about 20 grand saved up and I started my own consulting firm. Now, the Stanford MBA business program does not tell you if you want more time off, start your own company, but that’s effectively what I was thinking to myself. Little did I know, 19 years later, the company’s grown and we’ve got about 160 people working for us. Along the way, I’ve had a full-time professional racing career. Lucky for me, in the last 10 years, I’ve had some great people managing the company, Electronic Computer Services, so I can go play race cars. It’s unusual in a sense; starting a business and starting racing when I did and then growing a business and growing the racing, I don’t think there’s many people who’ve done that.”

There also aren’t very many people who’ve had the chance to race a Cadillac CTS-V either. The 520hp, 3000lb sedan burst onto the scene in 2004 and Pilgrim was there every step of the way. How does the CTS-V and World Challenge stack up to the other jobs on Pilgrim’s resume?

“It’s a showroom stock-based, high-performance automobile on steroids. It’s heavy and it’s very much based on a street car. We’ve still got a lot of stock suspension stuff on it and everything. From SSB and SSC cars all the way up to World Challenge, you’re looking at a progression there that’s production-based. World Challenge is the Incredible Hulk, where the SSB and SSC cars are just regular showroom stock, there’s very little modification. It’s a lot of fun to drive, but it’s hard to drive on the extreme limit, consistently.”

The CTS-V was fast out of the box, perhaps a little too fast. After all Andy, isn’t sandbagging half the game of SCCA SPEED GT?

“It’s hard for me to say anything about that,” Pilgrim says. “Honestly, we don’t have anything left in our car. After we came out so strong in that first race [Sebring 2004] and Cadillac so badly wanted a win, we basically let everything out of the bag in the first race. When I came off the line with no clutch, 45 seconds behind the field, and came back. That screwed us up totally for the rest of the whole deal. We had nothing [more] in 2006, nothing [more] in 2007, nothing [more] in 2008. Really, we had very little after 2004 in terms of things we found in testing that we could use later.”

Despite having “nothing,” Cadillac still managed to take titles in 2005 and 2007, and came damn close in 2004 and 2006, but that’s Pilgrim’s line and he’s sticking to it. He’s been doing this long enough to know how the game works.

“I don’t see the data they [SCCA Pro Racing officials] have, but they can see our acceleration curves, they can see what we’re doing… so I think they have a good idea what’s going on. I think, more than a performance balance, I see it as a points balance and a Championship balance. I have to respect that we’re in the entertainment business. I’m comfortable that they keep an eye on performance and try to keep the playing field level, and if they keep the points and the Championship in balance through the year and if the guys that win it make the least mistakes, as opposed to the guy that has the fastest car, then I think SCCA is doing a great job.”

Racing for years in series that use performance balancing and being a factory driver, Pilgrim is all too familiar with the politics of racing, but his “just deal with it” attitude allows him to avoid any frustration and has a lot to do with his long career.

“I understand how to play a game. There’s certain things that go on in factory racing that you just have to deal with. If you want to race, there’s always the politics of racing and I think if the politics make you crazy, then you’re not going to race in professional racing for too long. There’s a big picture and frustration makes your picture much smaller. I very rarely get frustrated. I’m very competitive, but I don’t get frustrated. The bottom line is: there’s a solution, not a problem.”

The politics have changed for the Cadillac team this year and the pressures of the factory are no longer there, as support has switched from GM to Remington. The results however, remain consistent, with Pilgrim the only SCCA SPEED GT driver to finish each of the opening four rounds on the podium.

“It’s definitely a little more laid back and a little easier going, but I’m a professional, I am with GM Racing, I still answer to GM Racing and for me it’s not very different. Neville [Agass] is my crew chief and Ben [Bradley] I knew from the Corvette program and obviously Cadillac as well. The preparation on the cars is fantastic. Neville has given a lot of feedback to those guys and Dan [Fiffick, team manager] is a really conscientious guy and he’s got a great bunch of people working for him.”

When Pilgrim’s not strapped into the CTS-V or checking in on his computer consulting business, he has another passion that’s close to his heart: teaching teenagers safe driving. Though Pilgrim himself is not a parent, losing friends in accidents at a young age, and later watching a friend lose his child in a car accident, convinced Pilgrim that something needed to be done. He began approaching high schools in his area and volunteered to speak to students about safe driving. Prom week became a busy time for Pilgrim’s speeches and the parents in the audience took notice of what he was saying.

“It was the reformed drug addict, the reformed alcoholic and then me. Parents would come to these assemblies and they would tell me, ‘what you just said was great, but he’s going to forget it by next Wednesday. Why don’t you make a video?’ It was the parents that prompted me to think about it.”

Pilgrim did more than think about it. He did it. After finding no luck trying to find corporate backing for a video about responsible driving, Pilgrim and a business partner used their own money to make the video titled, The Driving Zone: Essential Techniques for New Drivers. Pilgrim was proud of the video, but knew it needed a little something extra if he expected kids to pay attention, that’s when he enlisted the help of friend and NASCAR superstar Dale Earnhardt Jr.

“He said ‘where do you want me to be? What do you want me to do? I’m in, no problem.’ It was awesome. We went to his house and shot some stuff, then inserted about 20 items into the video. It sort of helps the kids pay attention, because it’s not sexy, you have to pay attention and he helps the kids pay attention when we tried some focus groups.”

Pilgrim continues to speak at high schools about safe driving and even found the time at Watkins Glen to drop by the local high school to talk.

Speaking of Dale Jr. though, after putting in two solid NASCAR Busch Series races at Watkins Glen and Montreal for Junior’s team last year, will Pilgrim be climbing back into a stock car this season? Probably not this year owing to Junior’s switch to Hendrick Motorsports, but in his best English-North Carolina drawl, Pilgrim recalls Dale Jr. hinting at where his next ride might be.

“He said, ‘You know what? I’m not sure if I’m going to put you in one of these road races, cause you know how to road race. I think it might be kinda fun to run you at Martinsville sometime.’ He had a wink in his eye and a nasty smile on his face, kind of like ‘you can see how the real races go,’ or something like that.”

Maybe Pilgrim will get his shot at a half-mile oval, maybe not. He’s just grateful for the opportunity and is dead set on having fun. After all, we’re talking about the guy whose helmet covered in cartoons.

“Cartoons make me smile. They teach things about the realities of life much more so than regular sitcoms. I’ve always had an affinity for cartoons and for making fun of life in general. When I first put cartoons on, going back at least 12 years… people really liked it, even adults. South Park is brilliant for me. It makes fun of everybody and everything and that’s the way life should be. Life should not be taken too seriously.”

The competition takes Pilgrim seriously though. ‘Mr. Consistency’ is a Championship threat year in and year out. It didn’t come easy though; hard work and a positive attitude were paramount to Pilgrim’s success and continue to open doors for him.

The rest of the SPEED GT grid will just have to deal with it.

Top Ten Finish

1. If I couldn’t be a race car driver I would be:
“A professional golfer. I only discovered golf about seven years ago, but I wish I’d discovered it sooner.”

2. Favorite vacation spot:
“Southern California, Laguna, Newport Beach, places like that.”

3. Favorite corner in all of racing:
“The Kink at Elkhart Lake.”

4. If you could jump into any Touring Car, which would it be?
“PD’s for sure. I love PD, he’s a great guy, so I’d definitely use his car.”

5. If you could have dinner with any celebrity past or present, who would it be?
Tiger Woods

6. Bungee jumping or skydiving?
“Skydiving”

7. Favorite English Premier League Team:
“Manchester United, my cousin plays for them. He was the Center Forward for England. That’s why I didn’t play soccer, I saw him play when I was 13 and thought ‘yeah right!’”

8. I can cook the best:
“Toast”

9. If your MP3 player was wired to your helmet in a race, what song would be playing?
“The Cure, ‘Elise.’ When you’re racing you have to be relaxed. You want your favorite relaxing music, you don’t want something that’s going to make you go down to the zero brake marker and shove it in a trap.”

10. Most embarrassing racing moment:
“Spinning on the pace lap at Long Beach two years ago.”

Posted On 6/18/08

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SCCA Announces Runoffs Continuous Participation Rewards Program

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 09:39:15 PST

SCCA Announces Runoffs Continuous Participation Rewards Program
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (June 11, 2008) – Sports Car Club of America, Inc. announced today a new rewards program for drivers who hold active participation streaks at the National Championship Runoffs®. The program benefits will first be awarded at the 2009 event.

Designed to reward Club Racing drivers who have supported the Runoffs continuously throughout the years, SCCA has developed a program of benefits including: early registration and parking spot selection; car number priority; ability to participate in a special test day; priority event registration; and a discounted Runoffs entry fee.

“The Runoffs has been through a transition period since 2004, and it is important to recognize the racers that have supported the event over time and through the transitions,” SCCA Club Racing VP Terry Ozment said. “The program we have developed will reward these drivers without adversely affecting anyone who did not attend the Runoffs in the previous year.”

While specific details of each program will be finalized in 2009, the following components have been confirmed:

Registration
There will be three tiers of the opening of Registration and entry acceptance for the event. Drivers with 10 or more consecutive years of active participation will be able to register first, followed by drivers with one to nine years of consecutive participation. Finally, drivers who did not participate in the event the previous year will be able to register for the event. The final details of the timing of this will be determined at a later date, although it is expected that the early registration periods will not last for more than one week each.

Parking
Like Registration, paddock parking spots at Road America will be first available to the drivers with 10 or more consecutive years of active participation. The group with one to nine consecutive years of active participation will be able to choose next, followed by those drivers who did not participate in the previous year’s event. The timing will likely coincide with registration.

Car Numbers
With registration being a stepped process, so will the assignment of numbers. Any driver remaining in the same class will have the right to the same number the following year during the early registration period. Likewise, any available number may be selected by drivers during this early registration period. Once general registration opens, all numbers will be available. If two drivers had the same number in different classes of a combined race group in 2009, the number will go to the driver with the most seniority first based on consecutive years of active participation.

Special Test Day
For 2009, the SCCA National Championship Runoffs will hold three days of qualifying (Tuesday through Thursday) with one session for each class each day. The Monday between the traditional promoter test week and the start of qualifying will be made an additional test day open to all drivers but with registration preference to drivers based on consecutive years of active participation. Initial invitations will be made based on the driver with the most years of consecutive Runoffs participation to the least. Additionally, all drivers with an active participation streak will run the test day at half price the normal rate of a test day. All remaining slots will be opened up for registration on a first-come, first-served basis at the regular test day price.

Entry Fee Discount
In 2009, any driver who participated in the previous year’s event will receive a $50 discount on their entry fee (limit one class entry per driver).

For any of the programs utilizing a list based on consecutive seniority, car class will not be factored. For instance, Dave Weitzenhof’s current streak is at 33 years. The fact that this streak included four different classes is inconsequential to the list. Participation is defined as having been entered in the event and turned a wheel on track during the official event. Multiple classes campaigned in the same year still only count as one year of participation.

The 2008 SCCA National Championship Runoffs will be held Oct. 6-12 at Heartland Park Topeka. In 2009, the event will move to Road America. For more information about the event, please visit www.scca.com/runoffs.

Posted On 6/11/08

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SCCA Board Rescinds National Club Racing Consolidation Plans

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 09:36:15 PST

SCCA Board Rescinds National Club Racing Consolidation Plans
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (June 6, 2008) – In a conference call Wednesday night, the Sports Car Club of America Board of Directors voted to rescind all planned consolidations that were announced following its May meeting. The Board cited considerable member input for its decision.

The Board previously moved to direct its Club Racing Board to consolidate the C and D Sports Racing classes into one class and the Showroom Stock B cars into either Showroom Stock C or Touring 3 for 2009.

Additionally, it had approved the CRB to combine for the 2010 season: Sports 2000 with C and D Sports Racing; GT-3 with either GT-Lite, D Prepared and/or GT-2 and B Production; F, G and H Production; ST and Touring 1; and Formula Atlantic (FA) and Formula 1000 (FB).

All consolidations were rescinded following a substantial amount of member input and feedback from the May 21 Fastrack® News announcement.

Additionally, due to the change in class structure plan, the Board rescinded its motion to have 23 races at the 2009 Runoffs and 21 in 2010.

Runoffs eligibility will change in 2009, with only classes carrying an average of 2.5 cars or more per National race event from the previous year invited to compete at the event. A maximum of 24 races will be held at the 2009 Runoffs, with combined class races created if the number of eligible classes per the 2.5 rule exceeds 24. Consistent with this change, the existing 24-class limit for the Runoffs has been lifted.

The Board stressed that only the class consolidations and the number of classes and races at the Runoffs were rescinded.

The following items from the May Board of Directors minutes remain unaffected, including: Improved Touring remaining a Regional-only class with the CRB working to migrate cars to National classes as an option; raising the number of finishes required for Runoffs eligibility and the number of out-of-division races that may be counted; locking in the top 10 classes in participation for a stand alone race at the Runoffs; and establishing a Tuesday through Sunday Runoffs schedule.

“Based on the member input we received following the release of the May Board minutes, it was clear that the path we had chosen for class consolidation was not supported across the membership,” SCCA Board of Directors Chairman R.J. Gordy said. “The Board strives to improve our activities for the membership, and receiving input is a critical part of the process. It is important to note that, while we have rescinded some of the items approved in May, many of the other items approved have gained considerable support and we are making positive progress.”

Full minutes from the June 4 Board of Directors meeting will be available in the July Fastrack News, which will be posted on or around June 20 at www.scca.com.

Posted On 6/6/08

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Portland's Harris Set to Defend Rose Cup Title

Mon, 02 Jun 2008 11:47:25 PST

Portland's Harris Set to Defend Rose Cup Title
By Randy Unsbee, Oregon SCCA

Tough competition expected from two Shelton Porsches at the 48th edition of this event

PORTLAND, Ore. – May 28, 2008 – Portland’s Todd Harris is defending his Rose Cup title from last year in the 200 mph Fluge Global Adventures (FGA) Derhaag Trans-Am Corvette. Wilsonville’s Matt Crandall, in the FGA Panoz GTS, joins Harris on the team.

Both drivers are among the favorites in the 48th running of the Rose Cup Races, presented by Temp-Control Mechanical Corp. Todd Harris, a professional race driver, is owner of the Pro Drive Racing School at Portland International Raceway (PIR). Pro Drive is also the season sponsor for the Spec Racer Ford class championship that competes in the Oregon Region Sports Car Club of America (ORSCCA) road racing championship.

His primary competition will come from Portland’s Neil Shelton in the Porsche 962 Le Mans prototype car that has been confirmed as legal to compete this year by the SCCA. Perennial favorite Monte Shelton, also of Portland, will compete in his Porsche 911T.

“We were recently at a test day together at PIR and Neil is doing a great job,” Harris said. “The Porsche 962 is flying around the track. With the entry of Monte as well, there will be in two Sheltons gunning for me this year.”

“We’re a little faster than last year, but don’t know if that is because of changes we’ve made to the car, or from changes in track configuration and new asphalt. We’re at least a 1.5 seconds slower than Neil’s Porsche 962 at this stage,” Harris added.

Harris’ teammate, Matt Crandall, has won the Rose Cup GT2 class several times previously, leads the season-long points championship, and recently scored a Sports Car Club of America National class victory at Pacific Raceways in Washington.

“I’m very excited about the GT2 class in this Sunday’s Rose Cup race,” Crandall said. There’s a lot of Porsches to run against in the class and it’s going to be a big battle: American iron vs. German engineering. We should show real well with the FGA Panoz GTS. We beat them last year so they’ll be looking for us,” he said. Crandall also has prior Rose Cup class victories in Formula Atlantic and C Sports Racing.

Absent from this year’s festivities is team leader Nick Fluge, who will not be on hand to defend his Festival Trophy title from last year in his Corvette Z06. Instead, he is off this weekend to Las Vegas to compete in the first World Series of Poker event of the year. “Without Nick Fluge’s support there is simply no way I could have defended my Rose Cup crown this year. I’ll be doing my best to make him proud on race day,” Harris said.

The Rose Cup is also one of eight race weekends this year in the Oregon Region Sports Car Club of America Road Racing Championship, presented by Fluge Global Adventures.

Fluge Global Adventures burst upon the sports scene in 2007 with victories in the famous Rose Cup races and a championship with the Oregon Region SCCA in a 198 mph Corvette Z06.

For 2008, Fluge has an even more ambitious schedule starting with select appearances in sports car races at Portland International Raceway. He already leads this year’s Super Touring class in the SCCA road racing championship.

Ongoing reports, results and new challenges are posted regularly on the group’s Web site, www.flugeglobaladventures.com. The green flag falls on the Rose Cup feature race this Sunday at 3:20 p.m. at Portland International Raceway.

About Todd Harris
Todd Harris is the president of Pro Drive, Inc., and has been competing in a variety of motor racing events throughout North America over the past 15 years.

The son of an amateur race car driver, Todd was immediately attracted to the sights and sounds of competitive auto racing and started his racing career in go-karts. Before moving into the world of car racing, Todd won many regional and state karting championships. The transition from karts to cars went smoothly for Todd, as he claimed many victories during his rookie season of car racing.

The Tigard, Oregon resident continued his success by becoming the Northern Pacific and Oregon Region Champion while setting track records at race tracks up and down the west coast. During a two-year period, Todd won 17 races in a row while racing in Sports Car Club of America’s most competitive class, Spec Racer Ford. In 1997, Todd was bestowed the award of “National Driver of the Year” by the Sports Car Club of America’s Oregon Region.

In recent years, Todd has been competing and winning races in a wide range of race cars including sports racers, formula cars, and grand touring cars. If it has four wheels and a motor, chances are Todd is going to be fast in it.

When Todd is not behind the wheel of a race car, he is coaching drivers ranging from amateur club racers to professional racecar drivers competing in the likes of NASCAR and Champ Car. He can also be found on local television and radio stations offering valuable driving advice to motorists.

Todd is a graduate of Portland State University, an avid guitar player, and classic film buff. He and his wife Jennifer have two sons, Calvin and Taylor.

About Matt Crandall
Matt Crandall, Wilsonville, Ore. has been involved in the automotive and racing business for all his adult life. He is an entrepreneur, involved in the selling of exotic sports cars and luxury automobiles, and is a recognized amateur race car driver with the Sports Car Club of America. He has excellent mechanical skills and knowledge, helps other drivers hone their skills on the race track as an instructor, and is also capable of providing track support as needed.

He is a five-time Oregon Region Champion with wins in Formula Atlantic, C-Sport Racer and, most recently, the 2006 GT-2 Class Champ in a Panoz. He has raced successfully on nearly all West Coast race tracks, including Willow Springs, Laguna Seca, Infineon, Thunderhill, Portland and Seattle. He also has experience at Road Atlanta. In Europe, through his prior association with Ferrari and Maserati sales, Matt had the opportunity to experience these automobiles at the world-famous Fiorano and Parma race tracks in Italy.

Posted On 6/2/08

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UUC Motorwerks Sweeps J-Prepared and Spec E36 at Mid Ohio

Wed, 28 May 2008 10:51:10 PST

UUC Motorwerks Sweeps J-Prepared and Spec E36 at Mid Ohio
By UUC Motorwerks

May 28, 2007 - The winter cobwebs were shaken off and left in the dust last weekend at Mid Ohio.

Friday's testing sessions yielded promising times for the races ahead. Arjun Soundararajan and Gautam Pathak drove the #54 car in J-Prepared and Tim Smith with co-driver Doug Thoms competed in the #22 Spec E36 car. This event also highlighted the team's new sponsor, BMW Cleveland.

Saturday's qualifying session showcased the team's improvements during the off season with Arjun taking pole for J-Prepared with a solid 2.5 second gap, and Tim Smith out-qualifying his closest competitor by .2 seconds to steal pole for Spec E36.

The Sprint race on Saturday went smoothly from the start with Arjun holding the lead in J-Prepared through the checkered flag. Tim Smith battled with the Spec E36 field during the 30 minute run, earning him his first win of the season.

Qualifying on Sunday set the tone for the 90-minute enduro that afternoon as Gautam took pole for J-Prepared with a two-second lead. Doug Thoms was set to start third in class, but was confident that his setup would work to his advantage. Gautam started the race and led for his 50-minute stint. After a flawless pit stop, Arjun took over and continued to hold the class lead. Gautam commented that "the Alcon brakes held up brilliantly during the entire session - They definitely gave me a late-braking edge."

Arjun and Tim took the checkered flag for the second time that weekend in J-Prepared and Spec E36 for UUC Motorwerks.

Special thanks to Bill Kenny and the team from BMW Cleveland, who were on hand all weekend. Additional thanks go out to our generous sponsors, Alcon, Recaro, HRP World, Vibrant Performance, CG Lock, and SPC Performance.

UUC Motorwerks
10 Ilene Court, Unit #5
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
http://www.uucmotorwerks.com
908-874-9092

Posted On 5/28/08

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034Motorsport Enjoy Top Result at Long Beach Super Lap Battle

Thu, 15 May 2008 08:06:56 PST

034Motorsport Enjoy Top Result at Long Beach Super Lap Battle
By Christian Miller, 034Motorsport

LONG BEACH, CA -- Renowned tuning shop 034Motorsport, respected for their reliable high-power Audis, were proud to be a part of the Primedia Super Lap Battle at Long Beach, one of the premier support events to the final Champ Car race.

“It’s an amazing atmosphere,” remarked 034’s driver Christian Miller. “This weekend is one of the biggest racing weekends in America, and we were so excited to show our stuff in front of so many fans!” Indeed, with the weekend being the last-ever Champ Car race, and with Danica Patrick having won her first race at Motegi the night before, the grandstands were absolutely packed.

This was good news for the Primedia event, which was by invitation only. The 034 team were pleased to have had their Audi A4 included on the list, and were keen to take a class win.

“We had some great tires, provided by Continental, for our run at the ‘Street’ class. Unfortunately, no other cars in this class were able to attend, so we switched to ‘Limited’ to have a little more fun,” noted Miller.

That made the racing a real crap shoot, with Miller up against other teams running tires that were pretty much race-spec rubber. The result was actually better than one would expect: a 2nd place in class.

“The Continentals were great, but no match for the Toyos, which are race tires,” laughed Christian. “The Contis are a street tire, and so to have them as competitive as they were is pretty amazing!.”

In the end, Miller missed out on the top spot in class by just eight-tenths of a second. That’s a testament to not just the tires, but some great driving by Miller and amazing preparation by the 034 crew. The team’s Audi features the first known transplant of Volkswagen’s VR6 engine into an A4 for road racing use, and showcases the driveline and chassis development of 034Motorsport.

The 034 Audi is no stranger to the podium, having been first in the 2007 Eurotuner GP, first in last year’s final Redline Time Attack at Laguna Seca, and third in Primedia’s 2007 Super Lap Battle.

“We had a great time at Long Beach, and think it’s a great venue for Time Attack-style racing,” said 034 President Javad Shazdi. “The fans were really excited to see us and were so enthusiastic. I hope we’ll be back there again next year!”

Photo courtesy 034 Motorsport.

About 034Motorsport:

034Motorsport is one of the premier fuel injection and engine management developers in the Audi/Volkswagen market and beyond. The flagship ECU model, the 034EFIStage IIc, features fully programmable coil-per-cylinder, degree based ignition with sequential staged fuel injection, closed-loop oxygen sensor and idle control, launch control, turbo anti-lag, boost control, data-logging and many, many other features. Constant development means more innovative features in the future and an ever competitive product that constantly advances the state of the art in engine management. 034Motorsport is committed to creating engine management and motorsport solutions for your project application. Visit 034Motorsport at www.034motorsport.com.

Posted On 5/15/08

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LeMons: Court Summerfield Tragedy

Mon, 12 May 2008 11:52:53 PST

LeMons: Court Summerfield Tragedy
By Jay Lamm, Founder

5/12/08 - A tragedy occurred at the 24 Hours of LeMons last Saturday at Altamont Motorsports Park. Court Summerfield, a driver, died.

A California Highway Patrol investigation was undertaken at the track. The CHP informed us that there was no mechanical failure or unsafe track conditions and that no other cars were involved. The CHP also informed us that, based on physical evidence and witness statements, it appears that the driver was not conscious prior to impact. We are awaiting the final reports.

Our deepest sympathies go out to Court's wife and family. We have established a memorial fund in his honor, with Court's wife receiving all proceeds. If you wish to contribute, please send your contact information and pledge amount to jlamm@driversdoor.com.

I'm deeply grateful for the outpouring of thoughts, wishes, and support shown to Court's family and teammates in the wake of this tragedy; thanks to all of you for being there when it's mattered the most.

Jay Lamm, Founder
24 HOURS OF LeMONS

Posted On 5/12/08

Comments

MORacingFan says:
5/18/08 14:13

This is always the worst kind of news we can find on racing sites. I am grateful it does not show up more often. Tragic to learn of a driver going down and yet not knowing why. Condolences to the family. Keep up the investigation to see what happened. Hang onto the good memories.

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SCCA Runoffs Moving to Road America in 2009

Mon, 12 May 2008 02:45:07 PST

SCCA Runoffs Moving to Road America in 2009
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (May 12, 2008) – Sports Car Club of America, Inc. announced today the results of a vote by its Board of Directors that will move the National Championship Runoffs® to Road America (Elkhart Lake, Wis.) in 2009. Road America will become the sixth venue to host the event, dating back to 1964.

The Board directed its staff to move forward to negotiate a three-year agreement with Road America for SCCA Club Racing’s signature event, which has averaged over 650 participants since 2000. The Runoffs is currently in the final year of a three-year agreement at Heartland Park Topeka, in Topeka, Kan.

“Given the deep history the track, the town of Elkhart Lake and SCCA enjoy, it only seems natural for the most prestigious Club Racing event in the world to be hosted by Road America,” SCCA President & CEO Jim Julow said. “The Board had a difficult decision, as we had an unprecedented number of outstanding potential hosts for the event, meaning the long term future of Club Racing’s National Championship is very bright.”

“The SCCA has been an integral part of our 53 year-history,” Road America President and General Manager George Bruggenthies said. “The opportunity to showcase our facility and our community to a nation of SCCA racers and fans is a tremendous honor. On behalf of our board of directors and staff, my thanks to the SCCA for their confidence. We promise to build on the outstanding Runoffs tradition and exceed stakeholder expectations.”

The first-ever “Interdivisional Championship,” later referred to as the “Runoffs,” was held at Riverside Raceway (Riverside, Calif.) in 1964, and alternated coasts with Daytona International Raceway (Daytona Beach, Fla.) through 1969. In 1970, the event began a 24-year run at Road Atlanta (Braselton, Ga.), before moving to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course (Lexington, Ohio) in 1994. After 12 years in Ohio, the Runoffs moved to Heartland Park Topeka in 2006. The move after three years signifies a change in philosophy after such long runs at venues from the 1970s through the turn of the century.

“Club Racing in the United States has evolved in the last decade, and rotating the Runoffs will do nothing but help the event and the Club Racing program, overall,” SCCA Chairman R.J. Gordy said.

“This is by no means a reflection on the job that Raymond Irwin and his staff have done at Heartland Park Topeka,” Julow added. “In the last four years, they have met every challenge and request and built a tremendous facility that is worthy of potentially hosting not only the Runoffs, but other high-profile road racing events in the future. Additionally, the local community and business groups have been outstanding and we thank them for their continued support.”

The event has grown in both size and stature over the years, with approximately 700 of the nation’s best amateur race drivers from across the country making the annual trek for the event that spans an entire week, preceded by additional days of optional testing. The sheer number of competitors makes the Runoffs the largest annual amateur road racing event in the world, and results in an average local economic impact approaching $10 million each year.

The Runoffs annually crown the National Champions of SCCA Club Racing’s National level classes (currently 25) and has been referred to as the “Olympics” of motorsports. Drivers from across North America race locally to earn points, with the top-10 qualifying drivers from the nine SCCA Divisions in each class earning an invitation to compete in the event. The list of past Runoffs Champions is a who’s who in road racing history that includes Skip Barber, Michael Galati, Paul Newman, Bobby Rahal, Graham Rahal, Greg Ray, Boris Said and Scott Sharp.

Road America’s history dates back to the early 1950s when public street races in the Elkhart Lake area were a part of the SCCA national championship series. When street racing became illegal in 1952, participants and supporters joined efforts and raised funds to develop Road America. The track held its first event, the SCCA National, on September 10-11, 1955. The inaugural June Sprints® was held the following year, June 23-24, 1956. Today, the 14-turn, 4.048-mile track holds its original configuration and continues to challenge the world’s best two- and four-wheel racers.

The date for the 2009 event has yet to be finalized, although it will move from October to September.

The 45th SCCA National Championship Runoffs will be held at Heartland Park Topeka October 6-12, 2008.

For more information about SCCA and the National Championship Runoffs, please visit www.scca.com/Runoffs.

For more information about Road America, please visit www.roadamerica.com.

For more information about Heartland Park Topeka, please visit www.hpt.com.

Posted On 5/12/08

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SCCA Board Approves NASA Licenses For Club Racing

Fri, 09 May 2008 03:44:59 PST

SCCA Board Approves NASA Licenses For Club Racing
By Eric Prill, SCCA Stauff

TOPEKA, Kan. (May 9, 2008) – Sports Car Club of America’s Board of Directors approved today at its face-to-face meeting in Topeka the acceptance of National Auto Sport Association licenses for Regional Club Racing competition, effective immediately.

The NASA Competition License joins those of 13 other organizations approved for Regional competition. Any of these license holders may participate in a Regional event, providing they are a full, First Gear, family or weekend member.

The full list of organizations with licenses approved for competition are:

BMW CCA
CACC
FIA
HSR
ICSCC
IMSA
MCSCC
NASA
PCA
Ontario Region CASC
SCCA Pro Racing
SVRA
VMC
Waterford Hills
West Canada Motorsports Association

Detailed information on the licenses approved for each organization is available in the SCCA General Competition Rules, section 3.1.5.

Posted On 5/9/08

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SCCA Launches Tire Rack Divisional Solo Program

Thu, 08 May 2008 01:07:59 PST

SCCA Launches Tire Rack Divisional Solo Program
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (May 8, 2008) - Sports Car Club of America is revitalizing its Divisional Solo program with the launch of The Tire Rack® SCCA Divisional Championships and Division Cup Challenge.

Currently an optional program for all of SCCA’s nine Divisions, The Tire Rack® SCCA Divisional Championships have been developed to create a clear ladder to National Solo competition. Participating Divisions will crown class champions in whichever manner they chose, whether it be through a point series or one winner-takes-all event.

Beyond the experience and confidence gained by taking part in events at the Divisional level, Soloists competing in the Tire Rack SCCA Divisional Championships will benefit via contingency programs and National Championship eligibility. Divisions enrolled in the new program can expect increased support from the National office in the way of fees and promotional items.

Additionally, Divisions will compete against each other in the Tire Rack SCCA Division Cup Challenge at the 2008 Tire Rack Solo National Championships. Each participating Division will earn points based on their total entries, number of rookie drivers and number of trophies earned. The Division accumulating the most points will earn the “2008 Tire Rack Division Cup.”

“We put this package together with the hope of growing the Divisional Solo program,” SCCA VP of Rally/Solo Howard Duncan said. “We want to give regional Solo participants a fun way to transition to National competition, while providing the Divisions with a package that’s easy to establish and won’t put a hole in their budget. This will certainly be a test year for the program, but it has great potential to enhance SCCA Solo as a whole.”

Bridgestone has already signed on as a contingency sponsor for the Tire Rack SCCA Divisional Championships. Soloists competing on Bridgestone tires in select classes will be eligible for cash awards if they finish in the top three of their Division’s Championship standings. Drivers must register for the program before competing and run with the required decals.

Currently the Northern Pacific, Southern Pacific, Southwest, Northeast and Southeast Divisions have elected to participate in the Tire Rack SCCA Divisional Championships.

For more information on the new Tire Rack SCCA Divisional Championships, including contingency registration forms, and the Tire Rack SCCA Division Cup Challenge, visit www.scca.com/solo.

Posted On 5/8/08

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Texans Keep Trophies on Home Turf at Fort Worth National Tour

Wed, 07 May 2008 08:17:01 PST

Texans Keep Trophies on Home Turf at Fort Worth National Tour
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

Story By John Lieberman

FORT WORTH, Texas (May 7, 2008) - Soloists came from as far west as California, as far east as Florida, as far north as Illinois and Wyoming, and from all points in between. They met in North Texas to battle it out on the Bus Lot at Texas Motor Speedway, where more than 200 drivers gathered for the Tire Rack® Fort Worth National Tour.

The largest class was Super Stock with 21 entries. Two Texans battled all weekend for the win, with Austin’s Lance Adams leading the way on Saturday in his Corvette and Plano’s David Smart setting the faster times on Sunday in his Sector 111 Motorsports Lotus Elise. But in the end, Adams was able to pull off the win by a scant 0.211-second.

By far the closest battle of the weekend was in the all-Mini Cooper S G Stock class with Texas Region’s Ken Orgeron taking the first day lead by 0.362-seconds over Red River Region’s Jeff Schaadt and the Big 5 Tire/Big Bad Wolf Racing Mini. Schaadt came back on day two to clench the victory by a mere 0.058-second.

On the other end of the totem pole, several classes were won by more than three seconds. Steven Pounds took A Stock in a Honda S2000 over fellow Texan Andrew VanderPloeg in the FTW Racing Honda S2000 by 3.021 seconds. Michael Cobb, of Lewisville, Texas, won D Stock in an Inspirus Technology Audi TT by 3.394 seconds over Bob Bailey’s Dodge SRT-4, and Terry Fair, of Fairview, Texas, ran away with X Prepared in his Chevy V8-powered BMW, beating Fred Langley’s Subaru STi by more than six seconds.

Driving the JANCO Custom Fab/Montiac Motorsports Pontiac Trans-Am in C Prepared, Plano’s Kurt Janish finished nearly four seconds in front of Todd Farris, of College Station, Texas, who was driving Alan Bartling’s Ford Mustang.
Donna Bartling, of Katy, Texas, took C Prepared Ladies by 4.355 seconds in the family’s Ferrous Equine.

From Tulsa, Okla., Pat Lipsinic’s HotSubarus.com/Zzyzx Motorsports Subaru Impreza took a 3.838-second Street Modified win over Grady Wood, of Heber Springs, Ark., in a Honda Civic.

In E Modified, another Tulsa driver, Douglas Turner, and his Eversharp Tool, Inc. Mazda Miata bested Texan Brian Sullivan’s Lotus Stalker by 3.176 seconds.

In Formula Junior B, young Daniel Seelig, from Edmond, Okla., crushed the competition by nearly 21 seconds in a Max-Torque Margay.

Of extra special note in the “wide margin of victory” category are B Modified and A Modified. Tommy Saunders, of Southlake, Texas, drove the familiar Hoosier TSR LeGrand Dragon to a 4.2-second BM win over Keith Starr, of Iowa Park, Texas, in a Quad Racing Integration Tiga DSR, but was later disqualified, having driven both courses several times during Friday’s setup. That gave the win to Starr by 0.194-second over another Texan, Dakota Southerland, in the Hernandez family’s Pocket Rocket Form S. Saunders would have set fastest time of the event with a 45.438 on his final Sunday run and an overall fastest time of 92.985.

Saunders’ normal co-driver, Stuart Lumpkin, of McKinney, Texas, ran the Dragon in A Modified trim and took a 5.891-second win over Brianne Corn who also took her turn with the Dragon. It should be noted that both had their fastest times on Sunday’s second run and Corn was only 0.167-second behind Lumpkin. How’s that for somebody who’s used to driving a Mini Cooper S in G Stock Ladies? The performance earned Corn the Solo Performance Specialties “Female Outstanding Performer” award from event officials. The male counterpart to that award went to Kevin Youngers, who besides serving as Chief Steward, loaned his 2007 Shelby Mustang to multi-time E Street Prepared National Champion Mark Madarash, of Red Oak, Texas, after Madarash blew the transmission in his Trans Am on Sunday’s first run. Though Madarash had a 1.3-second lead over Dave Whitworth, from St. Louis, Mo., after the first day, he was still able to stay within 0.4-second of the Chevrolet Corvette pilot’s winning time overall.

Special note should also be paid to Barry Booker and Paul Carrig, both from Shreveport, La., who took Carrig’s 2004 Volkswagen R32, shod with Dunlop tires, to a first and third-place finish in Street Touring® Xtreme. Booker clinched the overall win with a 2.85-second lead over Houston’s Norman Wilhelm in a Texas A&M Sports Car Club Subaru WRX running on Yokohamas. Could there be another “street” tire battle brewing here?

The Pace Lap Challenge Award for the most consistent lap times went to John Hale, of Austin, Texas, on Saturday. Hale’s Street Touring Ultra times on Saturday behind the wheel of an FTW Racing/RTRT Subaru STi were separated by only 0.292-second. Hale would have taken the honor again on Sunday, but no driver can win twice, therefore Andy Hollis was the second winner of the weekend, turning Street Touring S2 times with only 0.492-second difference in his ART/GRM/Soulspeed Mazda Miata. Both Hale and Hollis are now entered in a drawing to win a new Pace Pursuit® trailer. The winner will be drawn on the final day of qualifying for the 2008 SCCA National Championship Runoffs®.

A tip of the ten-gallon hat goes out to all of the Texas Region folks who worked so hard to make the Fort Worth Tour such a successful event, including Greg Piper who designed two fantastic courses. The Saturday night barbecue was a feast to remember, not to mention the SPS Friday night welcome party.

That southern hospitality will continue, May 24 – 25, for the next stop on the Tire Rack Solo National Tour: Atlanta Motor Speedway. To find out more or view full results from the Fort Worth National Tour, visit www.scca.com/solo.

Posted On 5/7/08

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USTCC: Tom Lepper Makes It Three Winners In Three Races

Tue, 06 May 2008 08:20:57 PST

USTCC: Tom Lepper Makes It Three Winners In Three Races
By Ali Arham, USTCC

Tom Lepper driving the Cobalt California/Red Line Oil Chevrolet Cobalt SS took the win at the Thunderhill Raceway round of the Nitto Tires United States Touring Car Championship (USTCC). David Bongiovanni took second place in the GoodSport Racing Mitsubishi Evo and along with it the driver's points championship. Getting his first podium in only his third USTCC race was rookie Jerry Bradbury in the Mini Mania Mini Cooper S, who finished third. The race was not without controversy as Curt Simmons' Sunnyvale Dodge SRT-4 took the win on the track but was disqualified due to a body contact incident on the last lap of the race. Simmons and Bongiovanni were in a tie going into this round.

MBO Racing/Red Zone Performance Honda Civic driver, Pete Bovenberg, started from pole position scoring the first pole for the red Civic. Bovenberg did not get a great launch and was beaten to the first turn by Bongiovanni’s Evo. Chasing the Mitsubishi were Bovenberg, Simmons and Lepper. The four cars were bumper to bumper at the end of the first lap. Bovenberg kept the pressure on Bongiovanni but was forced to retire on lap two due to a broken suspension piece. With Bovenberg out of the picture, that left Simmons and Lepper to try to beat Bongiovanni. Simmons looked very strong as he closed the two second gap that Bongiovanni had managed to build. Simmons made his move at Turn 15 on lap five and passed Bongiovanni. After passing the Mitsubishi, Simmons started to pull away and it looked like the race was over. But Bongiovanni was not giving up easily as he drove a brilliant race and used slower traffic to his advantage and two laps later he not only closed the gap but repassed Simmons at Turn One. Simmons kept the pressure on and on the last lap tried to make a pass on Bongiovanni. Unfortunately, the move resulted in body contact with a lapped car which in turn resulted in a flat tire on the Mitsubishi.

While all of this was going on, Lepper was sitting back quietly and watching the two battle it out. He never quit and just sat back patiently waiting for the right moment. Along the way it was Lepper that set the fast lap of the race in the Chevy Cobalt SS. The incident involving Simmons and Bongiovanni was what Lepper was waiting for. He easily passed the pair and went on to take the checkered flag. Lepper became the third different winner in three races. Simmons finished second on the track but was disqualified for the incident. That was a big blow to his championship hopes as the reigning champion was tied for the points lead going into this race. Bongiovanni became the points leader, by a very slim margin, and the Lepper/Rojas team now become the major threat to Bongiovanni’s goal of winning the 2008 Driver’s Championship.

By scoring the win, Lepper was awarded the Go Pro HERO Quick-release vehicle camera kit. It is a shockproof camera designed for street and track cars and motorcycles and can also mount to any motorsports helmet.

Michael Mc Colligan won the Molecule Race Smart, Keep it Clean Move of the Race Award. McColligan, who drove the Mazdatrix/Racing Beat Mazda RX8, did a great job making a great move at the start and gained the most positions at the start.

Posted On 5/6/08

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Tom Lepper Wins USTCC Race at Thunderhill

Mon, 05 May 2008 09:48:20 PST

Tom Lepper Wins USTCC Race at Thunderhill
By Ali Arsham, USTCC

May 5, 2008 (Benicia , Calif.) – Tom Lepper, owner and driver of the Team Cobalt California Chevrolet Cobalt SS Turbocharged car, won the third United States Touring Car Championship (USTCC) race at Thunderhill Raceway Park on May 4.

“We overcame several mechanical issues earlier in the weekend,” Lepper said. “I would have been happy with a podium finish; the win was icing on the cake.”

Lepper battled with the Dodge SRT4 of Curt Simmons and the Mitsubishi Evo of Dave Bongiovanni throughout most of the race, setting the race’s fastest lap in the process.

On-track contact in the latter portion of the race secured the win for Lepper. Bongiovanni followed him with third going to Jerry Bradbury in a Mini Cooper S.

Thunderhill’s three-mile road course track was raced in an unusual clockwise direction adding difficulty to an already arduous track.

“Not many people had experience running the track backwards.” Lepper said. “It equaled the playing field for many of the seasoned racers.”

Lepper’s teammate, Rod Rojas, of the MOLECULE Nomex and Technical Fabric Care Products team, waited at the Start/Finish for Lepper to take the checkered flag. “What an exciting race,” Rojas said. “Molecule Labs is thrilled to have Tom as our partner in our effort to win the USTCC series. I have no doubt the Cobalt will show its dominance at the end of the season.”

USTCC is sanctioned by National Auto Sports Association (NASA). The next USTCC race will be held at Infineon Raceway, in Sonoma , Calif. , on June 29.

Lepper’s Chevrolet Cobalt is sponsored by Red Line Oil and Clutch Masters, as well as MOLECULE Nomex and Technical Fabric Care Products and GoPro Hero Digital Cameras.

Media Contact:
Robyn Lepper
robyn@teamcobaltcalifornia.com
Ph. 707-751-3836

Posted On 5/5/08

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Foss Wins First MX-5 Cup Race of 2008 at Road Atlanta

Sat, 03 May 2008 03:19:33 PST

Foss Wins First MX-5 Cup Race of 2008 at Road Atlanta
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

BRASELTON, Ga. (May 3, 2008) – Polesitter Eric Foss, of Fort Worth, Texas, won the first SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup race of 2008, part of the Classic Motorsports Mitty at Road Atlanta. Hooverspeed teammates Todd Buras, of Melbourne, Fla., and Brad Rampelberg, of San Jose, Calif., completed the podium.

Car setup became a guessing game at Road Atlanta, after rain blanketed the 12-turn, 2.54 mile road course during the lunch hour. The shower ceased just as the group before the MX-5 Cup race took to the track and the teams watched on as a dry racing line began to form.

Last minute decisions meant several cars were late to the pre-grid and the No. 70 GRE/Velocity-club.com/Red Line Oil/SCDA1 Mazda MX-5 of Elivan Goulart, from Shelton, Conn., opted to change from wet to dry tires while waiting on the grid, forcing the third-place qualifier to start from the back of the field.

At the drop of the green, the No. 56 Hooverspeed/Pancreaticcure.org/Pancan.org Mazda MX-5 of Buras got a great start, taking over the early lead.

“It’s notoriously slick at Road Atlanta in the rain,” Buras said. “We knew that, so we softened the car up. We made the right adjustments, because the car was great. At Turn One I was in second and by 10A and B I was first.”

The first lap was the only lap Buras would lead though, as polesitter Foss motored back into the lead. Two laps later, Foss’ MER teammate and fellow front-row starter Ryan Schimsk, of Austin, Texas, took over the lead in the No. 81 Team MER/Airco Mechanical Mazda MX-5.

From there, the top four: Schimsk, Foss, Buras and Rampelberg, settled into a tight, but comfortable pack and broke away from the field. When Schimsk bobbled on lap 15 of the 23-lap, 58.42-mile race, Foss seized the lead. Schmisk held onto Foss’ bumper for several laps before falling back through the field.

Just as Foss began to pull a gap on second and third place, the full-course caution came out for the No. 32 Hale Motorsports/Patron Tequila Mazda MX-5 of Ian Ziering, which was in the tires at Turn Three. Without enough time to clean up the corner, the race, which averaged 80.732 mph, ended under yellow. Following the pace car across the start-finish line didn’t take away any of Foss’ excitement for his first MX-5 Cup win.

“I’m elated,” Foss said. “I’ve got to thank everyone: Team MER, Autobarn and Brook Co. It was a great race. Ryan [Schimsk] is an amazing teammate and we really worked well together. I was bummed that he had a little miscue that set him back. In my mind he was the guy to beat today.

“We guessed on the setup like I think all the teams did, because we didn’t know what the conditions were going to be. We just happened to hit on a decent setup, but I would say it was optimal. Everyone was fighting the same issue. I got a little break toward the end with about three laps before the yellow. Maybe my home track experience helped me out, because I noticed I was able to pull on everyone in Turn One to Turn Seven, and I was finally able to break the draft and get away progressively.”

Despite some serious nose-to-tail racing with his teammate, Rampelberg, Buras was able to bring his car home in second.

“It was a great race,” Buras said. “Everyone ran really clean and did a good job. Brad was fantastic. I slipped up once or twice and he got up there on my bumper instead of trying to go around. You couldn’t ask for a better teammate than Brad, I mean, he’s a National Championship driver. I think we’re going to be a force to be reckoned with.

“I was really hoping we were going to go back to green, because I had my teammate behind me and we could have drafted [Foss] down the back straightaway. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen, but you can’t knock the result.

“We’ve got a new sponsor, Pancreaticure.com, and we’ve got a great contest going: guess how many points the No. 56 car will have at the end of the season and you could win a two-day Skip Barber school. We’re trying to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer, so visit us at researchracing.com.”

In his first MX-5 Cup race, SCCA Spec Miata National Champion and winner of the Mazdaspeed Driver Development Ladder MX-5 Cup shootout, Rampelberg finished third in the No. 14 Hooverspeed Mazda MX-5.

“We made the call to put dry tires on and obviously that was the right call,” Rampelberg said. “I slotted into fourth on the start. Then we had two MER cars followed by two Hooverspeed cars. At that point, it was just a waiting game to see who was going to fall off, who put the biggest wet setup on. Schimsk ran well, but then I think his tires got away from him. The Kumhos on my car worked great. At the end I thought I had something for Eric and Todd, but that just didn’t happen.

“Getting on the podium is awesome anytime you do it, but especially being a shootout winner. Mazda has given me a great opportunity and I really want to do a good job for them this year as well as Jason Hoover from Hooverspeed, and P3 is a great place to start.”

Although he led an impressive 10 laps in his first-ever MX-5 Cup race, Schimsk would finish fourth. Also competing in his first MX-5 Cup race, seventeen-year-old Christian Franck, of Simi Valley, Calif., finished fifth in the No. 16 Alara Racing/Select Painting/ICC/CC7 Mazda MX-5.

Following a race-long battle, Anders Hainer beat out last year’s winner Ara Malkhassian for sixth place.

SCCA Touring Three National Champion Robert Huffmaster, of Clarkston, Mich., finished seventh and earned the Hawk Hot Lap for turning a new race lap record of 1:40.707 (90.798 mph) in the No. 27 Team MER/Huffmaster Co. Mazda MX-5.

Brad McAllister and Neal Sapp completed the top ten.

Round Two of the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup moves north of the border to Mosport International Raceway, May 16 – 18. News, photos, live timing and lap notes are all available at www.mx-5cup.com.

Posted On 5/3/08

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Solo Tour Resumes in Texas, Evo School Debuts

Fri, 02 May 2008 03:28:48 PST

Solo Tour Resumes in Texas, Evo School Debuts
By Erin Cecal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (May 2, 2008) – After more than a month off, The Tire Rack® SCCA Solo National Tour is back underway and returning to Texas Motor Speedway for the first time since 2001. Evolution Performance Driving Schools will join the Tour at Texas as the newly appointed Official Driving School of The Tire Rack SCCA Solo Program.

Well known throughout the Solo community, Evolution Driving Schools have long offered drivers a chance to hone their cone-skirting skills. Beginning in Texas, however, Evolution Performance Driving Schools will have classes at each stop of the 2008 Tire Rack National Solo Season, except at the Devens Tour due to site accessibility limitations.

“In addition to our existing line-up of schools, Evolution will be on the road with SCCA hosting the new Evo Advantage School before every Tire Rack Solo National Tour event, as well as a soon to be announced school before every Tire Rack ProSolo Series event that will focus on start line techniques,” Evolution Performance Driving Schools Managing Partner Pat Salerno said. “Soloists are invited to visit www.evoschool.com to learn more about our full line of schools and to sign up.”

Schools will run on Friday morning, prior to the usual Test and Tune, and be open to all participants for a price of $65. Walk-ups will be accepted at the Texas Tour, just visit the SCCA trailer, but classes are capped at 20 students each. Gerry Terranova and Neal Bellamy are the scheduled instructors in Texas.

“The Tire Rack Solo National Tour program has a long history of having an instructional component being a part of the events, so designating Evolution Performance Driving Schools as the Official Driving School is a natural extension of that heritage and we look forward to this being a benefit to our members as they strive to improve their driving skills,” SCCA Vice President of Rally & Solo Howard Duncan said.

More than 200 entrants have registered for this weekend’s Texas Tour with courses designed by Greg Piper. All participants will be treated to an all-you-can-eat Texas BBQ on Saturday night, hosted by the Texas Region.

Full results from Texas will be posted to www.scca.com/solo as they become available.

Posted On 5/2/08

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MER Teammates Tie for Qualifying Record at Road Atlanta; Foss Awarded Pole

Fri, 02 May 2008 03:26:51 PST

MER Teammates Tie for Qualifying Record at Road Atlanta; Foss Awarded Pole
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

BRASELTON, Ga. (May 2, 2008) – MER teammates Eric Foss, of Fort Worth, Texas, and Ryan Schimsk, of Austin, Texas, proved just how close the competition is in SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup when they entered identical fast laps in qualifying for Saturday’s Round One race, part of the Classic Motorsports Magazine Mitty Challenge. Going back to each of the drivers’ second-fastest lap times, Foss was awarded his second-consecutive Road Atlanta pole.

Driving the No. 28 Team MER/Autobarn Mazda/Brooks Co. MX-5, Foss entered a record-setting lap of 1:40.763 (90.747 mph) early in the 27-minute session. Satisfied with the time, Foss pulled the car into pit lane and watched his competitors inch closer to his pole time, ready to return to the car if necessary. Just before the checkered flag came out on the session, Schimsk’s No. 81 Team MER/Airco Mechanical MX-5 crossed the timing stripe and recorded the same exact lap time as Foss.

“I put my lap in pretty early,” Foss said. “It was a decent lap, but everyone was closing in, so I was getting a little worried. I was actually in pit lane when Ryan turned his lap and I was amazed that it was the same lap time. I was afraid that one of my teammates or someone else was going to take the pole away, so I’m just ecstatic that we’ve got two guys on the front row.”

Per the SCCA Pro Racing rulebook, when drivers enter identical fast times in qualifying, the drivers’ second-fastest lap times are used to determine the polesitter. Foss’ next fastest lap of 1:41.235 just barely beat out Schimsk’ 1:41.266.

“Obviously we’re pretty equal in speed, but we’re going to take a look at the data,” Foss continued. “Already this weekend we’ve found that Ryan is two tenths quicker than me in some corners and I’m a tenth or two quicker than him in others, so we’re trying to string the perfect driver together and adapt to each other. If we can do that and really continue to focus and work with each other, I think that’s going to give us a great opportunity.

“The field is much tighter this year. I don’t think there’s going to be a breakaway. We can always hope that, but realistically I think anyone in the top 10 has a really good shot.”

Third on the grid for Saturday’s race is Elivan Goulart, of Shelton, Conn., in the No. 70 GRE/Velocity-Club.com/Red Line Oil MX-5. Goulart clocked a 1:40.813 (90.702 mph) around the 12-turn, 2.54-mile road course.

Todd Buras, of Melbourne, Fla., will start fourth in the No. 56 Hooverspeed/Pancreaticcure.org MX-5. Buras entered a time of 1:40.941 (90.587 mph). He is followed on the timing sheets by Mark Jenkins, of Fairview, Texas. Driving the No. 25 Team MER/Jenkins Bros./Traxxas MX-5, Jenkins ties his career-best qualifying effort of fifth, with a 1:41.022 (90.515 mph).

Brad Rampelberg, Ara Malkhassian, Robert Huffmaster are sixth, seventh and eighth on the grid, respectively. All of the top-eight cars were under the previous qualifying lap record of 1:41.461 (90.123 mph) set by Foss last year. Brad McAllister and Deborah Loth complete the top ten.

The first race of the 2008 SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup season will take place at 1:30 p.m. (EDT) tomorrow, May 3. Go to www.mx-5cup.com for results, live timing and lap notes.

BRASELTON, Ga. - Results from qualifying session one for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup Round One race, part of the 2008 Classic Motorsports Magazine Mitty Challenge at Road Atlanta, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (28), Eric Foss, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:40.763, 90.747.
2, (81), Ryan Schimsk, Austin, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:40.763, 90.747.
3, (70), Elivan Goulart, Shelton, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:40.813, 90.702.
4, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:40.941, 90.587.
5, (25), Mark Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, 254863511, 1:41.022, 90.515.
6, (14), Brad Rampelberg, San Jose, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.264, 90.298.
7, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.276, 90.288.
8, (27), Robert Huffmaster, Clarkston, Mich., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.433, 90.148.
9, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.471, 90.114.
10, (23), Deborah Loth, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:41.572, 90.024.
11, (13), Anders Hainer, Woodland Hills, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.633, 89.970.
12, (16), Christian Franck, Simi Valley, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.656, 89.950.
13, (47), Mike Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:41.660, 89.946.
14, (6), Brett Smrz, Coeur D'Alene, Idaho, Mazda MX-5, 1:41.781, 89.840.
15, (57), Steve Welk, Franklin, Wis., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.801, 89.822.
16, (19), Robert Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.884, 89.749.
17, (33), Neal Sapp, Chadds Ford, Pa., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.949, 89.692.
18, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:42.604, 89.119.
19, (43), Barry Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:42.884, 88.876.
20, (21), Randy Hale, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:43.454, 88.387.
21, (22), Laura Olson, Costa Mesa, Calif., Mazda MX5, 1:43.803, 88.090.
22, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:43.877, 88.027.
23, (12), Alison Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:43.916, 87.994.
24, (24), Forest Barber, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:43.925, 87.986.
25, (01), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:43.949, 87.966.
26, (8), Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 1:44.164, 87.784.
27, (35), Bob Audet, Alexandria, Va., Mazda MX-5, 1:44.846, 87.213.
28, (55), Susan Krohn, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:45.308, 86.831.
29, (54), Brad Adams, New Orleans, La., Mazda MX-5, 1:46.298, 86.022.
30, (08), Colbi Bradley, Atlanta, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 1:46.351, 85.979.
31, (32), Ian Ziering, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:49.960, 83.157.

Posted On 5/2/08

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BimmerWorld: Seth Thomas VIR Race In-Car Highlights

Fri, 02 May 2008 03:24:04 PST

BimmerWorld: Seth Thomas VIR Race In-Car Highlights
By Bimmerworld Media Services

t’s another BimmerWorld classic. All the ingredients are there for a masterful race:

Seth Thomas+BimmerWorld BMW E90+VIRginia International Raceway.

Add in driving in front of BimmerWorld’s home state family and friends, an epic rear-wheel drive BMW vs. front-wheel drive Acura/Mazda battle lap after lap, Seth’s masterful movement from 7th to 2nd place, and we have a hot dish of in-car racing footage awaiting you.

Click Here to watch BimmerWorld: Seth Thomas VIR Race In-Car Highlights

The BimmerWorld team is proudly supported by: Performance Friction, GearWrench, BMW USA, Alpinestars, BBS, Bimmerforums.com, Diffsonline, JB Racing, Moton, Powerflex, and Rogue Engineering.

BimmerWorld Media Services
mediaservices@bimmerworld.com

http://www.bimmerworld.com
http://www.bimmerworldracing.com
http://www.powerflexusa.com
Race Proven BMW Performance
877.639.9648

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Posted On 5/2/08

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Foss is Tops in MX-5 Cup Practice at Road Atlanta

Thu, 01 May 2008 04:10:30 PST

Foss is Tops in MX-5 Cup Practice at Road Atlanta
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

BRASELTON, Ga. (May 1, 2008) – Eric Foss, of Fort Worth, Texas, topped both practice sessions today for Round One of the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup, part of the Classic Motorsports Magazine Mitty Challenge at Road Atlanta. Robert Huffmaster, of Clarkston, Mich., was second fastest in practice, followed by Anders Hainer, of Woodland Hills, Mich.

Polesitter at last year’s race, Foss topped both 30-minute practice sessions at Road Atlanta in his No. 28 Team MER/Autobarn Mazda MX-5. His fastest time came on the last lap of the morning session, a 1:40.433 (91.036 mph). In the warmer afternoon session, Foss’ best time around the 12-turn, 2.54-mile course was a 1:40.634 (91.037 mph).

“We had a mild under-steer this morning,” Foss said. “We did a couple things we thought were going to fix it, but with the track getting hotter, it just exaggerated the situation. Mid-session, I actually came in, because I thought it was hindering the performance of the car. We made the change and immediately I went out and the car was a lot better. We’re still not 100 percent where we want to be. The track conditions are deteriorating a little bit, but the car is drivable in these conditions, so I think that’s going to make it a good car for tomorrow and Saturday.”

After starting this race from pole last year, Foss endured a race-long battle with teammate Jason Saini, only to have both himself and his teammate fall victim to a last lap sneak attack by Ara Malkhassian. The third-place finish was Foss’ first and only MX-5 Cup race in 2007.

“It’s hard not to be a little confident with the way the weekend’s been going and the way last year went. I think it will be a little tougher this year. Obviously my teammates are right there with me. Qualifying is important, especially if it rains [during the race] on Saturday. If we can get MER cars in the top four, that’s what we’re shooting for, because everyone knows it’s all about working together with your teammates and hopefully we can do a better job of that this year during the race than last year.”

It appears things are going to plan then, as three Team MER cars follow Foss on the combine practice sheets. Huffmaster, the reigning SCCA Touring 3 National Champion also turned his fastest lap of the day in the morning session, entering a 1:40.805 (90.709 mph) at the wheel of his No. 27 Team MER/Huffmaster Co. Mazda MX-5. He is followed by the No. 13 Team MER/Under Armour Mazda MX-5 of Hainer, who entered a 1:40.838 (90.680 mph) in the morning session.

Ryan Schmisk, of Austin, Texas, in the No. 81 Team MER/Airco Mechanical Mazda MX-5 improved on his morning time, but not his fourth position on the time sheets, by entering a 1:40.866 (90.656 mph) in the afternoon session.

2007 SCCA Spec Miata National Champion and newest member of the Mazdapseed Driver Development Ladder, Brad Rampelberg, of San Jose, Calif., ended the day fifth on the timesheets. The No. 14 Hooverspeed Mazda MX-5 driver set his fastest time of the day, a 1:41.071 (90.471 mph) in the morning session.

Brad McAllister, Brett Smrz, Neal Sapp, Mark Jenkins and Todd Buras completed the top ten.

Qualifying for Round One of the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup will take place Friday, May 2, at 12:30 p.m. (EDT). The race will take place Saturday, May 3, at 1:30 p.m. (EDT). For results, photos, news, live timing and lap notes, visit www.mx-5cup.com.

BRASELTON, Ga. - Combined practice results for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup Round One race, part of the 2008 Classic Motorsports Magazine Mitty Challenge at Road Atlanta, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (28), Eric Foss, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:40.443, 91.036.
2, (27), Robert Huffmaster, Clarkston, Mich., Mazda MX-5, 1:40.805, 90.709.
3, (13), Anders Hainer, Woodland Hills, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:40.838, 90.680.
4, (81), Ryan Schimsk, Austin, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:40.866, 90.655.
5, (14), Brad Rampelberg, San Jose, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.071, 90.471.
6, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.147, 90.403.
7, (6), Brett Smrz, Coeur D'Alene, Idaho, Mazda MX-5, 1:41.215, 90.342.
8, (33), Neal Sapp, Chadds Ford, Pa., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.229, 90.329.
9, (25), Mark Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, 254863511, 1:41.274, 90.289.
10, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.405, 90.173.
11, (16), Christian Franck, Simi Valley, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.693, 89.917.
12, (70), Elivan Goulart, Shelton, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.769, 89.850.
13, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.775, 89.845.
14, (57), Steve Welk, Franklin, Wis., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.921, 89.716.
15, (43), Barry Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:42.139, 89.525.
16, (47), Mike Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:42.280, 89.401.
17, (19), Robert Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:42.309, 89.376.
18, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:42.559, 89.158.
19, (23), Deborah Loth, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:43.034, 88.747.
20, (54), Brad Adams, New Orleans, La., Mazda MX-5, 1:43.262, 88.551.
21, (01), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:43.608, 88.255.
22, (8), Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 1:44.140, 87.804.
23, (22), Laura Olson, Costa Mesa, Calif., Mazda MX5, 1:44.171, 87.778.
24, (12), Alison Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:44.232, 87.727.
25, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:44.964, 87.115.
26, (24), Forest Barber, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:45.891, 86.353.
27, (55), Susan Krohn, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:46.391, 85.947.
28, (35), Bob Audet, Alexandria, Va., Mazda MX-5, 1:47.666, 84.929.
29, (21), Colbi Bradley, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:48.771, 84.066.
30, (32), Ian Ziering Hale, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, no time.

Posted On 5/1/08

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BimmerWorld: VIR Qualifying Lap with James Clay

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 04:13:58 PST

BimmerWorld: VIR Qualifying Lap with James Clay
By Bimmerworld Media Services

He started 6th and finished 3rd; for BimmerWorld SPEED World Challenge Touring Car owner/driver James Clay, VIR was clearly a great weekend. The Virginia-native set out for qualifying with team mate Seth Thomas, slipstreaming down the long straights at the Alton, VA track.

At the conclusion of his lap of the 3.27 mile long circuit, Clay placed his BMW E90 in 6th place. Click Here to watch James on the ragged edge in front of his home crowd.

The BimmerWorld team is proudly supported by: Performance Friction, GearWrench, BMW USA, Alpinestars, BBS, Bimmerforums.com, Diffsonline, JB Racing, Moton, Powerflex, and Rogue Engineering.

BimmerWorld Media Services
mediaservices@bimmerworld.com

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Posted On 4/30/08

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Smrz Moves to Alara Racing for 2008 MX-5 Cup Season

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 04:38:27 PST

Smrz Moves to Alara Racing for 2008 MX-5 Cup Season
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

COUER d’ALENE, Idaho (April 29, 2008) - Brett Smrz and Smrz Racing have teamed up with Alara Racing out of Sonoma, Calif., for the 2008 SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup season. The 17-year-old has been hard at work both in the gym and on the track in preparation for the first event.

Still recovering from his leg amputation sustained last year in an off-track incident, Smrz has been working with his physical therapist, Brad Sharples, of In Touch Physical Therapy, to prepare for the Road Atlanta event.

“I am very excited to be running with Alara Racing for the 2008 season,” explained Smrz. “The mechanics and engineers listen carefully to my input and make the necessary changes, so I can get the most out of the car.”

Smrz has also been training over the winter in the Skip Barber open-wheel cars as well as the Skip Barber Mazda MX-5 cars. Competing against 50 other drivers in a Skip Barber Karting Scholarship Shootout held at the Sebring Raceway this spring, Smrz was awarded a sponsored ride in the Western Region open-wheel series.

Most recently competing in the Jim Russell Scholarship Run-Off at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, Calif., Smrz was the recipient of a sponsored half-season in the new Lola FJR-50 cars. The cars are based on the Lola B06/30 Formula 3 car, which won the German Recaro F3 Championship in 2006. The cars weigh 1,025 lbs and produce 300 bhp with 270 ft lbs of torque. Smrz’ first race in the new cars will be in between the Road Atlanta and Mosport MX-5 races.

The opening round of the 2008 SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup takes place May 1 – 3 at Road Atlanta, site of Smrz’ last MX-5 Cup race in 2007 before his amputation.

Stepping up in place of the former MAZDASPEED Miata Cup, the Mazda MX-5 Cup made its debut in 2006. Featuring identical Mazda MX-5s on spec Kumho tires, MX-5 Cup gives drivers the opportunity to run on high-profile weekends in an economical, entry-level racing series. As part of the MAZDASPEED Driver Development Ladder, the 2008 MX-5 Cup Champion will receive a ride in the SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship, courtesy of Mazda. The 2008 MX-5 Cup schedule features eight races at prestigious events across North America, and with grids composed of roughly 30 cars at each race, MX-5 Cup has become one of the best shows in motorsports today. For more information, visit www.mx-5cup.com.

Posted On 4/29/08

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BimmerWorld Back on Track after Thrilling VIR World Challenge Race

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 04:45:06 PST

BimmerWorld Back on Track after Thrilling VIR World Challenge Race
By Bimmerworld Media Services

Seth Thomas comes within 0.090 of winning; James Clay locks in a podium at his home race.

4.27.08 Dublin, VA - Saturday’s race at Virginia International Raceway (VIR) delivered thrilling battles, two BimmerWorld drivers on the podium, the 5th closest finish in Series history, the fastest race lap, and the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for the Dublin, Virginia based team.

Add in the massive crowd supporting the BimmerWorld boys, and round two of the 2008 SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car championship was a classic event for all of those in attendance.

For Seth Thomas, VIR served as a weekend of career bests and highlights at every turn. “This weekend definitely is the best memory in racing for me. Somebody asked me that question this weekend and all I could tell them was last year leading most of the Road Atlanta race. Now this one trumps it. It was important for me to get the podium monkey off my back. Doing this at VIR with all the BimmerWorld fans and supporters at our home track…the moment couldn't have been any better.”

Thomas not only earned the race’s fastest lap, but was also bestowed with the Sunoco Hard Charger Award by the SCCA for passing an impressive five cars on his march to his second place finish. As Thomas noted, that march was anything but easy.

“The last half of this race was the hardest that I have ever driven. Racing with Kuno Wittmer those last few laps was give and take. He was fast in some sections and I was fast in others. We kept fighting it out trying to see who would come out on top. He had the better position. In those laps I could see him pushing the car to the limits and I saw some of his weaknesses. I kept trying to pressure him into a mistake at those spots but he kept it all together. On the last lap we did go side by side on a couple of occasions but I never could take advantage. There were several times where I was faster than Kuno and I could have stuck a nose in on him or loosened him up a little.”

While Thomas could have barged his way past Wittmer, earning a victory on merit, rather than rough tactics, is how the Georgia- native prefers to race. “To me, bumping a guy out of the lead is not how I like to race. I think it is a lot more exciting seeing two cars going at it working ever advantage they can on the last lap and cross the finish line together is a lot more entertaining then bumping the leader out of the way. So Kuno and I did just that: keeping it clean all the way to the finish line.”

Sharing in his success with James Clay made the weekend all the more perfect for Thomas. “I am so glad James was on the podium with me. James being there makes it a lot more memorable because we have been teammates for so long. Plus, James did give me a wave by on the front straight on lap two which helped to get me in the position I was in at the end of the race. I’m glad once again we put on a BMW show for everyone at VIR. We came away with the fastest lap which shows we have the speed to compete with everyone this year. Next step is to get the qualifying monkey off our backs, put the BMW on pole again, and then you will see us on the top of the podium at the end.”

For Virginia-native James Clay, BimmerWorld’s owner/driver, VIR is a weekend he won’t soon forget. “I’m so incredibly proud of everyone,” said Clay. “We’ve had VIR marked on our calendars from the day the race was announced, and to leave with Seth and me on the podium and to do it on our home turf was just perfect. Well, almost perfect; we really wanted to win, but I’ll take the points we’ve earned and get ready for round three in Utah. I know Nick wanted a better result than what he had—he’s not used to finishing outside the top ten, but I’m confident he’ll be right there with us.”

Clay’s third place at VIR matched his previous best finish, a third place at Road Atlanta last October, but he’s had enough of third place finishes. “Third place has gotten a little bit old…a win is the next step. Our cars have proven they’re ready; our crew is ready, and Seth, Nick, and I are ready. I guess having three hungry drivers and three cars capable of winning isn’t a bad problem to have…” noted Clay.

If there was a major challenge at VIR, it was for the BimmerWorld crew to ready the three BMW E90’s on a rapid fire schedule between sessions. “It was such a tight schedule to work from; every crew member gave all they had this weekend,” offered Clay. “It might sound like a shameless plug, but with our guys working flat out to prepare three cars with almost no time on the clock to do so, the tools provided by our partners at GearWrench really helped get us on track with time to spare. They make it easier for our crew to do their jobs, and that’s exactly what we need.”

For BimmerWorld newcomer Nick Esayian, a finish outside the top ten at VIR has the SPEED Touring Car veteran looking forward to the next round at Miller Motorsports Park in Utah. “It’s been an interesting start of the season for me. I left a good finish on the table at Sebring and never really got my mojo workin’ this weekend. I’m happy for Seth and James, but I think I’ve served my time in BimmerWorld’s boot camp; it’s time to join the same battlefield they’re on.”

The VIR race will be broadcast Wednesday, April 30 at 1 p.m. (EDT). The series next travels to Miller Motorsports Park for Round Three, May 18.

More information about the team, cars, and drivers can be found at www.bimmerworldracing.com Information on BimmerWorld’s Customer Car Services can be found at www.bimmerworld.com

The BimmerWorld team is proudly supported by: Performance Friction, GearWrench, BMW USA, Alpinestars, BBS, Bimmerforums.com, Diffsonline, JB Racing, Moton, Powerflex, and Rogue Engineering.

Posted On 4/27/08

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Wittmer Holds Off Thomas For Maiden SPEED Touring Car Win In Virginia

Sat, 26 Apr 2008 01:00:48 PST

Wittmer Holds Off Thomas For Maiden SPEED Touring Car Win In Virginia
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

ALTON, Va. (April 26, 2008) – Canadian Kuno Wittmer watched the competition fall off the course in front of him and held off the attacks of others to record his maiden win in SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car competition today at VIRginia International Raceway—the fifth-closest finish in series history. Teammates Seth Thomas, of Cumming, Ga., and James Clay, of nearby Blacksburg completed the top three.

Driving the No. 44 Acura/RealTime Racing/Eibach/Red Line Oil Acura TSX, Wittmer started third and followed polesitter and early leader Chip Herr’s No. 97 Tindol Motorsports MAZDA6 for the opening 10 laps of the 21-lap, 68.67-mile race. As the top four cars, separated by just one second, entered Turn One, Wittmer’s teammate Pierre Kleinubing snuck by into second at precisely the same time that Herr slid wide and off course.

“Chip’s car was really quick, but I was able to hang onto him,” Wittmer said. “I saw Pierre behind me when he got by Charles [Espenlaub]. From then on, I just focused on Chip, because I knew Pierre wasn’t going to try anything dirty on me. Then Chip locked up in front of me, Pierre was alongside and I had nowhere to go, so Pierre went by and I went behind him.”

Kleinubing’s No. 43 Acura/RealTime Racing/Eibach/Red Line Oil Acura TSX inherited the lead, but was never comfortable as Wittmer and seventh-starting Thomas were in tow for the next eight laps. On lap 19, as the trio headed for the famed Oak Tree turn, Kleinubing slid off and brushed the tire wall. He re-entered the course in seventh, leaving only Wittmer and Thomas to fight for the win in the final three laps.

As he had done in previous laps, Thomas drafted alongside Wittmer going into Turns One and 14, but Wittmer always protected, keeping the No. 38 BimmerWorld BMW 325i at bay. To add to the drama, rain began to fall on portions of the undulating 3.27-mile, 17-turn circuit in the closing laps, but it was not enough to affect the finish. The BMW had a run on Wittmer’s Acura exiting the final corner, but Wittmer held him off to record a 0.090-second win, averaging 91.725 mph.

“It feels absolutely fantastic to win, especially with the way the race unfolded,” Wittmer, whose previous best finish was second place, said. “I had a great start and was right behind Chip off the start. I did bog a little bit and might have been able to take the lead into Turn One if I hadn’t, because Charles bogged and Chip bogged.

“It was a roller coaster ride. I was looking ahead of me, looking behind me; I wasn’t quite sure what to do or where to position myself. The rain made it a little bit slick in the braking zones, but we had enough of a gap on James that I was like ‘okay here we go, let’s put a good three laps.’ Then, Pierre went off and I don’t know if he broke or did it himself, but I’ll take it.

“Seth did a great job putting on the pressure. He was there every single time. I didn’t want to block, but I was definitely defending my position. The car was strong and I wasn’t going to give up that easily. So thanks to RealTime, BuyBrakes.com and Acura; without them, I’m not here.”

For Thomas, it was also a career-best finish, and despite coming up just shy of the win, he was all smiles. He was also presented the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing five positions throughout the race.

“I was sitting in Kuno’s draft, and you need that draft to get up there, but as soon as I’d pop out, I could feel the wind just stop my car,” Thomas said. “I was trying to get up next to him and trying to get up next to him, but then he’d get a better run onto the front straight. It was so close - it was awesome.”

Clay started sixth in the No. 36 BimmerWorld BMW 325i and came out on top of a battle with Charles Espenlaub’s No. 73 Mazdaspeed/Stoptech/Racinghart MAZDA6 and Peter Cunningham’s No. 42 Acura/RealTime Racing/Eibach/Red Line Oil Acura TSX. The third-place finish equaled Clay’s career-best.

“It was an intense race,” Clay said. “Unfortunately, I was just sitting there watching. I got a lucky pass on Espenlaub going into the braking zone at Turn One. I think he gave it to me. Then I had Charles behind me and PD there. I got caught up in that race and got out of the draft. On these straights, without a draft, you can’t do anything, so I was just watching.

“It feels really good to have two cars on the podium. I was watching Seth up there and I was hoping he could get it done, but it was so tight, there was no room. They played a great game up there though. Seth’s first podium and me up here as well; it’s pretty awesome.”

Espenlaub, who started second, held on to finish fourth. Herr moved by Cunningham on the final lap to complete the top five.

Cunningham, Kleinubing, Jeff Altenburg (MAZDA6), Payton Wilson (Dodge SRT-4) and Eric Curran (Acura TSX) completed the top 10.

Michael Galati earned the Racing Electronics Holeshot Award for moving up six positions on the opening lap in his No. 95 Mazda North America/Tindol MAZDA6. One of the fastest cars early in the weekend, Galati started 15th after mechanical issues slowed his qualifying pace and looked to be charging before an off-course excursion on Lap 11.

Coupled with a second at the season-opening round at Sebring, Wittmer’s win placed him atop the point standings for the first time in his career. The 25 year-old Montreal native now has 225 points—28 more than Kleinubing. Cunningham and Espenlaub are tied for third, with 178, followed by Thomas, with 176.

Acura extended its SCCA SPEED Touring Car Manufacturers’ Championship Presented by RACER Magazine lead to 12 over defending Champion Mazda, 19 to seven.

Today’s race will be broadcast Wednesday, April 30 at 1 p.m. (EDT). The series next travels to Miller Motorsports Park for Round Three, May 18.

ALTON, Va. - Results from Saturday’s 21-lap, 68.67-mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round Two race, at Virginia International Raceway with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps and reason out (if any).

1. (3), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura TSX, 21.
2. (7), Seth Thomas, Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 21, -.090.
3. (6), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 21, -10.769.
4. (2), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., MAZDA6, 21, -12.494.
5. (1), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., MAZDA6, 21, -13.903.
6. (4), Peter Cunningham, Milwaukee, Wis., Acura TSX, 21, -16.666.
7. (5), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 21, -16.856.
8. (8), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., MAZDA6, 21, -23.666.
9. (9), Payton Wilson, Chantilly, Va., Dodge SRT-4, 21, -25.215.
10. (10), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Acura TSX, 21, -28.432.
11. (16), Jason Saini(R), Fort Worth, Texas, MAZDA6, 21, -29.324.
12. (15), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, MAZDA6, 21, -40.519.
13. (11), Jason Martinelli, Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325i, 21, -45.578.
14. (13), Nick Esayian, San Diego, Calif., BMW 325i, 21, -46.529.
15. (14), Charlie Putman, Mills, Wyo., MAZDA6, 21, -1:10.092.
16. (12), Patrick Lindsey(R), Santa Barbara, Calif., MAZDA6, 21, -1:19.167.
17. (17), Glenn Bocchino, Delray Beach, Fla., Acura RSX, 20, -1 lap.

Time of race: 44 minutes, 55.127 seconds.
Average speed: 91.725 mph, Record
Margin of victory: 0.090-second, Record
Lap leaders: Laps 1-10, #97 Chip Herr; laps 11-18, #43 Pierre Kleinubing; laps 19-21, #44 Kuno Wittmer
Fastest race lap: #38 Seth Thomas, 2:06.646 (92.952 mph), Record
Fastest qualifier: #97 Chip Herr, 2:05.650 (93.688 mph), Record
Sunoco Hard Charger: #38 Thomas advanced five positions throughout the race
Racing Electronics Holeshot Award: #95 Galati advanced six positions on Lap One

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED Touring Car Championship Point Standings
After Two of 10 Rounds

Pos., Driver, Car, Points (Wins)
1, Kuno Wittmer, Acura TSX, 225 (1)
2, Pierre Kleinubing, Acura TSX, 197 (1)
3, Peter Cunningham, Acura TSX, 178
4, Charles Espenlaub, MAZDA6, 178
5, Seth Thomas, BMW 325i, 176
6, James Clay, BMW 325i, 152
7, Jeff Altenburg, MAZDA6, 148
8, Chip Herr, MAZDA6, 145
9, Jason Martinelli, BMW 325i, 123
10, Jason Saini(R), MAZDA6, 121

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED Touring Car Manufacturers’ Championship Presented by RACER
After Two of 10 Rounds

1, Acura, 19 (2)
2, Mazda, 7

Posted On 4/26/08

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LeMons: Carolina Deadline Looming; AMP Race Ditto

Sat, 26 Apr 2008 12:56:28 PST

LeMons: Carolina Deadline Looming; AMP Race Ditto
By Jay Lamm, Chief Perpetrator

Panicking yet? No? Perhaps you're just not paying attention:

CAROLINA ENTRY DEADLINE IN THREE (GOL'-DANG) WEEKS
Actually, less than three weeks: The deadline to enter LeMons South (at swanky Carolina Motorsports Park in Kershaw SC) is 17 May.

Like all LeMons races, we collect applications (via the online registration page) right up to the deadline, then pick the best of the bunch for the grid after that. And yes, I admit, "best" is an arguable term here.

To have the same chance of being picked as everyone else, don't miss the 17 May cutoff. After that, the bribery bill simply skyrockets.

AMP RACE IN (SAINTS PRESERVE US) TWO WEEKS
Lungs need some dust? Eyes just dying for vaporized crude oil? Then come see the '08 LeMons SF season-opener at Altamont Motorsports Park in Tracy CA. We're racing from 11:30am to 6:00pm on Saturday, May 10th, and 9:00am to 4:00pm on Sunday, May 11th. Awards ceremony at 4:30pm Sunday, and then they call the sheriff. It's all very orderly.

AMP's grandstand tickets are 5 bucks; pit passes are 30 for the weekend, or 20 per day. Mothers get into the grandstands for free on Mother's Day. Muthahs, likewise.

LAST-THRASH BASH
Too cheap to spend five bucks? How's free grab you?

The utterly informal Last-Thrash Bash hits LeMons HQ in Emeryville (5675-C Horton Street, 94608) from 9-5 on Sunday, May 4th, the last weekend before the AMP season-opener. That means that rather than working in their own shops and actually accomplishing something, various teams will be wrenching, prepping, whining, wheedling, and wasting even more precious time right here in front of our office. If you ever wanted to see how a Superfund site gets created, here's your big chance.

MOTORING J-STYLE
David Swig, a longtime team captain at LeMons, has just invited us to stage our heaps on the lawn of his excellent Japanese-themed concours and car show, Motoring J-Style (24 May '08 at the Solano County Fairgrounds, Vallejo CA). Why David would bring the level of his show down to the level of LeMons, to say nothing of making Vallejo a Superfund site as well, I couldn't say. Just come check it out if you want to see the world's first concours of $500 racecars. And likely the world's last.

Adios from the spam factory--JL

Jay Lamm, Chief Perpetrator
24 HOURS OF LeMONS
www.24HoursofLeMons.com

Posted On 4/26/08

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Herr Wins SPEED Touring Car Pole at VIR with Record Lap

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 04:34:59 PST

Herr Wins SPEED Touring Car Pole at VIR with Record Lap
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

ALTON, Va. (April 25, 2008) – Chip Herr, f Lititz, Pa., will start Saturday’s SCCA Pro Racing SPEED Touring Car Round Two race from pole at VIRginia International Raceway during the Bosch Engineering 250 weekend after setting a new qualifying lap record. Charles Espenlaub, of Lutz, Fla., will start second, making it an all-Mazda front row.

Driving the No. 97 Tindol Motorsports MAZDA6, Herr captured his third career-pole with a new qualifying lap record at VIRginia International Raceway. Herr’s lap of 2:05.650 (93.859 mph) around the 17-turn, 3.27-mile track was slower than several of the times clocked in morning practice, but was the quickest lap produced in the much warmer qualifying session .Although not as warm as Herr and the Tindol Motorsport team were expecting.

“We actually expected it to be warmer—it wasn’t as warm this afternoon as yesterday,” Herr said. “With the four new tires, the car actually hooked up better than I expected. It’s really my second weekend in the car with the MAZDA6 and the Tindol crew has really worked with me to help get the car to suit my driving style, as opposed to me changing my style to suit the car. Tindol Motorsports has been very open minded to the changes I want to make and as you can see, it’s working.

“The key to the race is going to be keeping the tires underneath me. The BMWs are going to be strong and they’ve done some long runs to see how the tires hold up. I have not done a 50-minute run. Our cars tend to tighten up over a run and I’m trying to change that.”

Espenlaub put his No. 73 Mazdaspeed/Stoptech/Racinghart MAZDA6 on the front row with Herr after clocking a 2:05.696 (93.654 mph). The pair have shared the front row before, at Road America in 2006, but Herr doesn’t expect to have the same launch that won him that race.

“We’re here to run for a manufacturers’ championship. I have great company up front with Charles [Espenlaub] alongside. We’ve shared the front row before, but that was when I had a better launch [in an all-wheel-drive Audi]. We’ll have to get a good start and, hopefully, keep those Acuras behind us and hope for a Mazda one-two finish.”

Canadian Kuno Wittmer will start Friday’s race third on the grid. Wittmer entered a 2:05.709 (93.644 mph) in the No. 44 Acura/RealTime/Eibach/Red Line Acura TSX. He is followed by teammates Peter Cunningham, of Milwaukee, Wis., and Pierre Kleinubing, of Coconut Creek, Fla. Cunningham’s No. 42 Acura/RealTime/Eibach/Red Line Acura TSX turned a 2:05.780 (93.562 mph), while Kleinubing, whose practice time was actually faster than the pole time, turned a 2:05.800 (93.577 mph) in the No. 43 Acura/RealTime/Eibach/Red Line Acura TSX. The top five are separated by only 0.150-second.

Blacksburg, Va. driver James Clay will have a challenge ahead of him if he hopes to win in front of the hometown crowd; he starts sixth on the grid. Clay’s teammate Seth Thomas (BMW 325i) will start seventh.

Defending SCCA SPEED Touring Car Champion Jeff Altenburg (MAZDA6) lines up eighth on the grid ahead of Payton Wilson in the lone Dodge SRT-4. SCCA SPEED GT driver Eric Curran completes the top 10 in an Acura TSX, making a return to his former team, RealTime Racing, for the weekend.

Michael Galati, of Olmstead, Ohio, who topped the second practice session, was only able to complete one lap when his No. 95 Mazda North America/Tindol MAZDA6 had problems with its ignition system. The crew was unable to get the car re-fired before qualifying time expired.

The SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car race will launch from a standing start, Saturday at 4:10 p.m. (EDT). Results, photos, live timing and lap notes are all available at www.world-challenge.com.

ALTON, Va. - Starting lineup for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED Touring Car Championship Round Two race, part of the Bosch Engineering 250 weekend at VIRginia International Raceway, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (97), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., MAZDA6, 2:05.650, 93.688.
2, (73), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., MAZDA6, 2:05.696, 93.654.
3, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura TSX, 2:05.709, 93.644.
4, (42), Peter Cunningham, Milwaukee, Wis., Acura TSX, 2:05.780, 93.592.
5, (43), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 2:05.800, 93.577.
6, (36), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 2:06.005, 93.424.
7, (38), Seth Thomas, Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 2:06.049, 93.392.
8, (1), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., MAZDA6, 2:06.108, 93.348.
9, (62), Payton Wilson, Chantilly, Va., Dodge SRT-4, 2:06.551, 93.021.
10, (46), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Acura TSX, 2:06.929, 92.744.
11, (8), Jason Martinelli, Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325i, 2:07.338, 92.446.
12, (57), Patrick Lindsey(R), Santa Barbara, Calif., MAZDA6, 2:08.017, 91.956.
13, (34), Nick Esayian, San Diego, Calif., BMW 325i, 2:08.673, 91.487.
14, (96), Charlie Putman, Mills, Wyo., MAZDA6, 2:09.430, 90.952.
15, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, MAZDA6, 2:28.428, 79.311.
16, (74), Jason Saini(R), Fort Worth, Texas, MAZDA6, 2:32.085, 77.404.
17, (45), Glenn Bocchino, Delray Beach, Fla., Acura RSX, no time.

Posted On 4/25/08

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Long Beach Leaves Eric Curran Looking for Positive Results

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 01:04:22 PST

Long Beach Leaves Eric Curran Looking for Positive Results
By Eric Curran Media

4-time 2007 SPEED GT race winner shakes off another tough weekend; looks to Utah to jump start 2008 title bid

April 25th, 2008 (Easthampton, MA) - If there’s a driver in the 2008 SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT series who’s looking to turn his fortunes around, it’s Eric Curran, winner of four SPEED GT rounds in 2007.

This time last year, Curran was celebrating his second consecutive victory, taking a thrilling win from round two at Long Beach. In 2008, Curran’s had to display the poise and temperament of a veteran driver whose 2008 driver’s championship bid has gotten off to a rough start.

“Tough races happen sometimes, I just wish it wouldn't have been two in a row.” noted Curran. “My Whelen Engineering team has worked incredibly hard in the off season and deserve better than the results of Sebring and Long Beach, but we’re not discouraged and we are not giving up on our goal of a driver’s championship, or leading the charge to help deliver a manufacturer’s championship for Chevrolet."

Curran might have departed Long Beach without his desired win, but the young star of the SPEED GT series found many positives to draw from last weekend. “My backup car was fast all weekend; we were 3rd fastest in practice with it. Unfortunately, we had an electrical issue that prevented me from qualifying—it was the proverbial ‘$0.2 cent’ part that failed, but Teddy Marsh and the Whelen team got everything fixed and ready for the race. No matter how big the challenge that faces them, they don’t flinch and just keep their heads down to give me the best car possible.”

Forced to start from the back of the grid—unfamiliar territory for Curran—the driver of the #30 Whelen Engineering Corvette made up a number of spots at the start of the race. While picking his way past the tail end of the field, Curran was caught out by a few drivers that checked up quickly while entering the incredibly narrow turn two ‘water fountain’ corner. The resulting front-end damage, although slight, was enough to affect the #30 car’s cooling, bringing a very premature end to his race.

“I was being cautious—I knew that it would be tough coming through the pack from the back on a street course. I just never expected them to lock up and create a logjam at turn two, and even the extra space I’d left wasn’t enough. It’s challenging to get past a pack of slower cars on a street course, for sure.”

Going into the next round at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah, Curran knows the a strong result at the 3rd round of the SPEED GT championship is crucial for his championship aspirations.

“We were really strong there last year, and I’m sure Sonny and I will be in the hunt again for a top result. Most things worth having require you to work hard to earn them, and I certainly believe we’re prepared to work harder than ever to earn points, wins, and to get back in the title hunt. That’s all I’m focused on.”

Photo: Eric Curran in his #30 Whelen Engineering Corvette at the 2008 SCCA SPEED GT series round 2 event, held in Long Beach, California. (Photo: Jimmy Sykes)

Follow Eric’s progress and look for exclusive in-car footage, updates, and photo galleries at www.EricCurran.com.

Posted On 4/25/08

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The International Allstars Team Powered by Mazda Hits Long Beach

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 04:40:53 PST

The International Allstars Team Powered by Mazda Hits Long Beach
By eProdius Race Media

San Clemente , CA (04.23.08): The International Allstar Team powered by Mazda, with Kyle Mohan, Patrick Mordaunt, and Johnny Kanavas at the helm of a pair of Mazda MX-5s and one Mazda RX-7, took to the track this past weekend the Long Beach Grand Prix to compete in the Formula Drift Team-Drift Championship.

Setting aside the fact that the Long Beach Grand Prix is the biggest race of its kind in North America, and the biggest venue for Formula Drift in terms of event stature and crowd size, this was a big event for the team’s drivers. But for Mohan, Mordaunt, and Kanavas, it was also their home event, as all live but mere miles down the freeway from the scenic Grand Prix Circuit. The International Allstars are also based in Southern California, and Mazda USA’s headquarters are based in nearby Irvine – not that many of them were in the office, as with a significant number of Mazda vehicles racing in Long Beach, many of Mazda’s staff were on site.

And for Kanavas, this was his first Formula Drift event – and, he’d never been on course at all at Long Beach. Mordaunt had only seen a portion of it, having competed in the Formula Drift Pro Championship event the weekend before, while Mohan had seen the full course in last year’s Team Drift event.

But, in front a packed crowd and under perfect weather, the International Allstar Team powered by Mazda delivered the goods (at least once the computer in Mordaunt’s car began cooperating) and came home fourth place in Sunday’s judged competition, just one point off of third place. With all three cars bouncing off the rev limiter, hanging the tail out and burning down their Cooper Tires, the drivers were grinning ear-to-ear after coming off track. It’s hard not to enjoy yourself when flogging a car for all its worth around the Long Beach Grand Prix course.

With the recent unification of the Champ Car World Series and the IRL IndyCar series, the rest of the Team Drift schedule is one large “TBA.” But look for Mohan, Mordaunt and Kanavas to be back behind the wheel for the International Allstar Team powered by Mazda at Formula D events, drift demos and Time Attack events before the season is over.

For more information, visit:

www.kylemohanracing.com
www.patrickmordaunt.com
www.kanavaskompetition.com
www.formulad.com
www.teamallstars.com
www.driftallstars.com

source: shift communications group | eprodius.com

Posted On 4/23/08

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BimmerWorld: Down Time

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 01:13:36 PST

BimmerWorld: Down Time
By Bimmerworld Media Services

What do racing drivers do to keep busy with six weeks between races? Keeping busy is easy—slowing down is the hard part as BimmerWorld’s SPEED Touring Car trio tells us.

Dublin, VA (4.23.08) - “The past six weeks have been insanely hectic from all directions – the fun just never ends here!” BimmerWorld owner and driver James Clay offered. While some World Challenge Touring Car teams have looked to the extended break between the first and second rounds as an opportunity to charge their batteries and prepare for the remainder of the season, Clay and his BimmerWorld BME E90 team mates Seth Thomas and Nick Esayian have been working flat out since the checkered flag flew at Sebring last month.

In addition to owning the BimmerWorld Racing team, Clay also owns and runs the parent company, his BimmerWorld BMW aftermarket, sales, and development business that serve owners and enthusiasts of the famed German brand. With two businesses on his shoulders and his weekends packed with other track activities, this weekend’s SPEED TC round at his home track, Virginia International Raceway (VIR) could be a rare opportunity to slow down and focus solely on racing.

“The release of the new BMW 135i kept me busy on the development side and the guys a little busy in the shop. We just turned out what is as far as I know the most tuned 135i in North America to compete in One Lap of America coming up in May against some fairly high horsepower and highly-tuned competition – we will see what this newest BMW pocket-rocket can do! (follow progress at http://bimmerworld.com/blog/onelap/)

“We have also been working on some new parts and tweaks for our BMW E90 Touring Cars post-Sebring. We’re pretty dialed in to the new tires thanks to some winter testing which was nice after seeing some of the other marques struggle a little. But development never stops – or if it does, you are in trouble! We just wrapped up some testing at VIR in preparation for this week’s race so expectations are high.”

While the cars have been cared for and improved, Clay’s been pushing himself to keep many balls in the air. Rest, something he’s been without since Sebring, will have to wait for another weekend. “Personally, I have been in planes, trains, and automobiles more than I have been in my office chair recently and for the foreseeable future, which is keeping me on my toes. I have been doing a lot of driver coaching, racing with some friends, and media work for Grassroots Motorsports on the new BMW family of fast cars (135/335/M3) and SPEEDtv.com with the release of the new BMW X6. I have One Lap coming up next month as well as three SPEED TC races in the next five weeks. Wild times!”

For Sebring star Seth Thomas, the race at VIR this weekend can’t come fast enough. It might serve as a break for the hectic pace he’s been keeping. “What hasn’t happened since the last race?!? I have worked, spent time with the wife and dogs, been to Sebring to do driver coaching with a few clients, tested their cars, ran a club race, participated in some wild bachelor party debauchery and found some time to devote to building a house! I’ve tried to keep my skills in tact by spending some time in some fast cars at a couple of different tracks. We’ll find out how well this will come into play this weekend.”

In Nick Esayian’s world, a blend of reality and hilarity is completely normal. “I’ve been working, spending time with family, and... Last week Sunday I took my wife to the Bon Jovi concert in Las Vegas... We had a great time but on the way home had a “disagreement.” I tossed my suitcase into the back of the car and pop went my back! A week of excruciating back spasms followed. It was horrible... I’ve been able to stand up for only two days... Physical Therapy, a Janis Joplin mixture of drugs, acupuncture (which I still don’t believe in even though it worked), laying the spa for hours, and sleeping restlessly on the floor. This of course all arose from my wife disagreeing when I stated I was going back to the mullet after the Bon Jovi show. Two rules when I married her... No Trans-Am’s and no mullet.” We can only hope Nick has had time to grow a mullet worthy of Billy Ray Cyrus’ Achy-Breaky Heart.

Predictions for the race this weekend at VIR ring with optimism and the desire for a quick recovery from a Sebring race that failed to deliver the results Clay, Esayian, and Thomas know the cars are capable of.

“My prediction for the weekend is nothing short of seeing all three cars crossing the finish line where they are supposed to be,” Thomas offered. “It is up to us as drivers to sort out the finishing order. I know that James has a lot of laps at VIR compared to Nick and I but Nick is the underdog of us three. And we all know how this year has been a year for the underdogs to pull off the upset in the world of sports this year. So I think VIR is going to be nothing short of a great race for our BMW E90’s and BimmerWorld. I think that it will be safe to say we will be fast, we will show the home crowd why the BMW’s are the best car on track, and why we are the best team in World Challenge. It’s going to be a lot of fun.”

Esayian’s focus on the upcoming race is in line with that of Thomas. “No question our expectations are high for VIR. After falling short of our potential at Sebring we know there are two reasons we have to show big. First and foremost, points. We need to stake the Roundel Flag in the ground here and get into the game. We can make the lost ground up but we can’t afford a stumble. Second, this is home for the team and as in any other sport momentum is critical. We need to give our guys a shot in the arm here at home as we hit the stride of the season. I don’t see any reason we can’t walk away from this in a commanding position if we minimize mistakes and go out and have some fun at VIR.”

Virginia-native James Clay has the added benefit of racing in front of those that are most important to him. “For VIR, we have lots of family, friends, and customers coming out – basically the whole extended BimmerWorld family. It will be great to be back to our home track for the first time in many years. Seth looks forward to his home race at Road Atlanta every year, and I’m really thankful to have the opportunity to race at my home track this weekend. Like Seth and Nick, I’ll be giving it my all, as will our entire crew.”

The BimmerWorld team is proudly supported by: Performance Friction, GearWrench, BMW USA, Alpinestars, BBS, Bimmerforums.com, Diffsonline, JB Racing, Moton, Powerflex, and Rogue Engineering.

BimmerWorld Media Services
mediaservices@bimmerworld.com

http://www.bimmerworld.com
http://www.bimmerworldracing.com
http://www.powerflexusa.com
Race Proven BMW Performance
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Posted On 4/23/08

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MOLECULE Race Smart, Keep It Clean Move of the Race Award

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 01:09:09 PST

MOLECULE Race Smart, Keep It Clean Move of the Race Award
By Ryan Cristobal, USTCC PR/Media Services Team

April 15th, 2008/Benicia, Ca. – The Northern California based MOLECULE Labs, Inc. and its line of Nomex® fire suit care products, the four-step MOLECULE™ Technical Fabric Care System, proudly announced its partnership with the 2008 Nitto Tire United States Touring Car Championship (USTCC) series sanctioned by the National Auto Sports Association.

MOLECULE will take on the award title for the USTCC series’ the MOLECULE Race Smart, Keep It Clean Move of the Race Award. The award will go to the USTCC driver/competitor that executes the most impressive, cleanest maneuver, pass or move on a competitor to advance, gain or re-gain his/her position during race competition. The recipient of the award will receive a complete MOLECULE Nomex® fire suit Care Kit, the MOLECULE™ Technical Fabric Care System.

“The Nitto Tire USTCC is very excited to partner with MOLECULE Labs, the leader in Nomex® fire suit care. MOLECULE Labs is just like the series; its products were conceived in grassroots efforts through motorsports, designed for racers by racers”, said Ali Arsham, coordinator of the USTCC. “MOLECULE is very proud to continue to expand, extend and grow its presence in every level of motorsports in North America, especially in a relevant, exciting and high level competition series such as The Nitto Tire U.S. Touring Car Championship where driver safety always come first”, added Rod Rojas, Independent Account Manager for MOLECULE Labs who spearheaded and made the partnership possible.

MOLECULE is not only a USTCC partner but also a competitor, backing the 2008 Nitto USTCC Rookie season campaign of Rod Rojas behind the wheel of the #48 MOLECULE/Go Pro Camera/Team Cobalt California Chevy Cobalt SS. MOLECULE and Rojas is currently in third place in overall point standings and second in the rookie of the year standings after two rounds of competition.

The first MOLECULE Race Smart, Keep It Clean Move of the Race Award of the 2008 Nitto Tire USTCC was given to Andy Hope driver of #8 Sports Compact Car Magazine/Spoon Sport/Opak Racing JDM Acura RSX-R during the Nitto Tire USTCC Infineon Raceway Round 2 race on April 13th, 2008. Hope who battled his way through the field and finally made a last lap move and pass on 2007 USTCC Driver Champion Curt Simmons behind the #49 Cornwell Tools/Sunnyvale Dodge/MBO Racing Group Dodge SRT-4 on his way to his first ever USTCC victory.

More on MOLECULE: MOLECULE Labs, Inc. provides solutions for the safety, care, and maintenance of numerous technical fabric applications. Specially formulated for Nomex®, tested by the SFI Foundation and proven in diverse racing conditions for over two years, MOLECULE is designed for racers by racers. Formulated to be used on any brand of Nomex® fire suit, the lineup of MOLECULE WASH, MOLECULE REFRESHER, MOLECULE PROTECTOR, and MOLECULE SPOT CLEANER can be found in use on driver and crew suits in every top level teams in every level of motorsports around the world from go karts, stock cars, Indy Cars, to the pinnacle of racing in Formula One.

MOLECULE’s most recent major racing endeavor is the rebranding of the MOLECULE Formula Mazda Challenge series that will also run race event schedule with the National Auto Sports Association (NASA), one of largest sanctioning racing body in North America.

For more information and complete info on the products, with videos, technical info, testimonials, visit: www.moleculelabs.com

Look for MOLECULE™ Technical Fabric Care System at the remaining 2008 Nitto Tire USTCC Events. For more series information, visit: www.ustcc.com

Posted On 4/23/08

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Auston Harris To Race In USAC With Bob East

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 01:17:09 PST

Auston Harris To Race In USAC With Bob East
By ADZEN

Auston Harris, the 17 year old from Hayward, California, has been signed by driver development guru Bob East to participate in 3 races in a USAC Ford Focus Midget. Harris is scheduled to race on May 14 at Anderson Speedway, May 22 at Mt. Lawn Speedway and May 28 at Plymouth Speedway.

"The folks at Ford asked me to test Auston in March last year," said East, and I was impressed by his natural ability but more by his attitude and maturity. I'm excited that I will now have a chance to see Auston perform under race conditions. I have a hunch that he is a real talent and now I will be able to confirm that."

"It's such an honor for me to have an opportunity to race with Bob," said Harris. He is one of the most respected coaches in the business. Although this is only a 3 race deal, it is an important step in my career and a chance for me to learn from the best."

Bob East is no stranger to success or talent. Over the years, Bob has been a part of multiple USAC race and championship wins with drivers Tony Stewart, Bobby East (his son), JJ Yeley and Bobby Labonte, to name a few.

Auston Harris was born on December 11, 1990 and started racing Junior Dragsters at the age of 8 years old. Since then, Auston has also raced in go-karts, formula cars, sports cars and touring cars. Auston has achieved many podium finishes and impressed everyone that he has been fortunate enough to race with.

For more information, please contact Dean Harris at (510) 209 6385 or by e-mail or visit www.austonharris.com.

Posted On 4/21/08

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Davis Takes First SPEED GT Win on Home Turf

Sun, 20 Apr 2008 01:20:19 PST

Davis Takes First SPEED GT Win on Home Turf
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

Long Beach, Calif. (April 20, 2008) – In front of ecstatic friends and family, Huntington Beach driver Brandon Davis took his first SCCA SPEED GT win at his home race, the SCCA Pro Racing Long Beach SPEED GT Presented by Applied Computer Solutions. Point leader Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., and Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., finished second and third, respectively.

Starting from pole, Davis’ No. 10 ACS/Sun Microsystems Ford Mustang was beat off the standing start by Pobst who took the lead heading into Turn One. Pobst would run wide, however, handing the lead back to Davis, while his No. 1 K-PAX Racing Porsche 911 GT3 fell to sixth.

“On the start, I made a mistake and didn’t short-shift to second quickly enough,” Davis said. “I didn’t think I’d made that big of a mistake, but I saw Randy go on by me, so I just tucked in behind.”

“I got a really good start,” Pobst said. “With the rear engine, if you get it right, the thing will just launch. I felt like I was doing a wheelie. I managed to beat Brandon to Turn One and I went down to the inside. It was really dirty down there and I just looked in the mirror a little too long and when it was time to turn, I couldn’t. I just did touch the Toyota banners there and cars just kept going by me. My crew said ‘that was a rookie move’ and I said ‘yes it was!’

The race then went full-course yellow for the No. 17 LTI Contracting/Foster Motorsports Chevrolet Corvette of Rob Foster who was stalled on the grid. When the race restarted on lap five, Pobst immediately began to pick off the cars ahead of him with ease and was back into second place behind Davis on the same lap.

Davis was able to hold off Pobst through two more restarts from full-course yellows, before the fourth and final full-course yellow on lap 26, meant the 28-lap, 62.529-mile race would end under yellow. It was Davis’ second career-win, his first coming in SCCA SPEED Touring Car in 2006 at the Denver Grand Prix.

“I was not that great on restarts,” Davis said. “I always had someone, whether it was Andy or Randy, right on my bumper in one, so I stayed to the inside and was able to protect it. One thing I’ve learned from my dad’s experience here is that there is really an accordion effect in Turn One and into the fountain turn, so if you stay to the inside at one, it’s really hard for anyone to go by you, because even if you get through one faster, you can’t pass anyone going into the fountain turn because it’s one lane. That’s what I did on all the restarts too—stay to the inside.”

“It really feels amazing to win here. Before my dad even got into racing, when he was just a guy who liked cars, we would come out and watch Long Beach every year. Then, he started to run Trans-Am and started working with Boris [Said], we actually got the first win for the team here in Trans-Am. I was there for all of that and to be able to be the guy that gives the team a win at Long Beach is very special.”

Davis reset the Long Beach SPEED GT lap record en route to the win, lapping the 1.968-mile street circuit in 1:26.205 (82.185 mph).

Pobst took looks at Davis on three of the restarts, but was unable to make any real challenges on Davis.

“The first restart was purely dumb luck,” Pobst said. “I was behind the Viper and some other guys. Coming out of the hairpin it looked like everybody just went flat out coming out of the turn. It’s a pretty long way from the last turn to where the starter and the green acceleration cone are. So I’m on it. I’m running through the gears to catch up and meanwhile everyone up in front of the pack slows down. I’m up to about fourth or fifth gear and I hear on my radio ‘green’ and I’m like ‘yea, baby!’ I just pulled out and don’t think anybody was expecting it because nobody tried to block me. It was one, two, three, four going by. My teammate Mike Galati gave me some help in one and let me in.

“Andy was a little vulnerable on the restarts and the Porsche was just ready to go. On the long run, I think Andy had the strongest car. Brandon was doing everything right. He has a strong car, it’s a good package. I was just hoping it would break! On a long green, it would have probably come down to Andy harassing me and making it easier for Brandon. It didn’t work out that way.

“I’m happy to be second after all the drama.”

Other than getting passed by Pobst who was charging back from his wide run through Turn One on the opening lap, Pilgrim had a quiet race in his No. 8 Remington Shaving Cadillac CTS-V, starting and finishing third, but had a great view of the action ahead of him.

“I had the best seat in the house watching these two,” Pilgrim said. “At the beginning, Randy went wide in one and we got up to second. Our cars are really heavy and the first four or five laps are pretty rough, because we start with such low tire pressures. When we had the first restart, Randy got by me and I figured that if I could stay with him, we could have a race later.

“I could make some time in the longer runs, but I was really disappointed to see the yellows. I was trying to run a pace and they seemed to be coming back to me a little bit, but then we had the yellows.”

One of the fiercest battles of the race was between the No. 23 K-PAX Racing Porsche 911 GT3 of Michael Galati, from Olmstead, Ohio, and the No. 14 Global Motorsports Group Porsche 911 GT3 of Newport Beach resident James Sofronas. Sofronas pulled alongside Galati on the back and front straights several times, but Galati was able to defend his fourth place until the end.

Jason Daskalos (Dodge Viper) and Brandon’s dad, Mike Davis (Ford Mustang) were waiting and watch the battle between Galati and Sofronas, but neither were able to capitalize. It was a career-best finish of sixth for Daskalos, followed by Mike Davis in seventh.

Reigning SCCA SPEED Touring Car Champion Jeff Altenburg finished eighth in a Dodge Viper and collected the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing eight positions during the race.

Cindi Lux (Dodge Viper) collected her first top-ten finish, crossing the line in ninth. Last year’s Sunoco Hard Charger, Jeff Courtney (Dodge Viper) was tenth.

Tim McKenzie earned the Racing Electronics Holeshot Award for picking up six positions on the first lap in his No. 66 TR Racing Porsche 911 GT3.

Pobst leaves Long Beach the point leader with 220 points. Brandon Davis now follows with 208 points. Pilgrim sits third with 198 points.

Porsche continues to lead the SCCA SPEED GT Manufacturers’ Championship Presented by RACER with 16 points over Cadillac’s 12.

The Long Beach SPEED GT Presented by Applied Computer Solutions race will air on SPEED Wednesday, April 30, at noon (EDT), 9 a.m. (PDT). Full results, race notes and photos from the weekend are available at www.world-challenge.com.

Round Three of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship will take place May 16 – 18 at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah.

LONG BEACH, Calif. - Results from Sunday’s 28-lap 55.104-mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED GT Championship Round Two race, part of the Long Beach SPEED GT Presented by Applied Computer Solutions at Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps and reason out (if any).

1. (1), Brandon Davis, Huntington Beach, Calif., Ford Mustang Cobra, 28.
2. (2), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT3, 28, -1.832.
3. (3), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 28, -3.032.
4. (4), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT3, 28, -3.860.
5. (6), James Sofronas, Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT3, 28, -4.473.
6. (8), Jason Daskalos, Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 28, -4.863.
7. (7), Mike Davis, Huntington Beach, Calif., Ford Mustang Cobra, 28, -6.183.
8. (16), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Dodge Viper, 28, -7.168.
9. (11), Cindi Lux, Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 28, -7.634.
10. (13), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 28, -8.874.
11. (14), Tim McKenzie, Madison, Wis., Porsche 911 GT3, 28, -10.381.
12. (12), Sonny Whelen, Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 28, -11.705.
13. (15), Claudio Burtin, Atlanta, Ga., Dodge Viper, 28, -12.518.
14. (20), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 28, -13.563.
15. (10), Michael McCann, Canton, Ohio, Cadillac CTS-V, 28, -14.410.
16. (17), Stu Frederick, Del Mar, Calif., Dodge Viper, 28, -15.194.
17. (25), Gunter Schaldach(R), Aspen, Colo., Dodge Viper, 28, -15.990.
18. (23), Phillip Martien(R), Finksburg, Md., Porsche 911 GT3, 28, -16.432.
19. (21), Joey Scarallo, Smithtown, N.Y., Chevrolet Corvette, 28, -16.796.
20. (19), Paul Brown, Corvina, Calif., Porsche 911 GT3, 28, -17.470.
21. (24), John Bourassa, Jupiter Island, Fla., Porsche 911 Turbo, 28, -17.838.
22. (22), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Porsche 911 GT3, 24, Crash.
23. (18), Eric Olberz, La Canada, Calif., Porsche 911 GT3, 18, Crash.
24. (5), Ritch Marziale, Tempe, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 10, Mech.
25. (28), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 5, Mech.
26. (9), Dino Crescentini, Manhattan Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT3, 0, Mech.
27. (27), Robert Foster, Phoenix, Ariz., Chevrolet Corvette, 0, Mech.
28. (26), Tomy Drissi, Hollywood, Calif., Chevrolet Corvette, 0, DNS.

Time of race: 52 minutes, 52.522 seconds.
Average speed: 62.529 mph
Margin of victory: 1.832 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-28, #10 Brandon Davis
Fastest race lap: #10 Brandon Davis, 1:26.205 (82.185 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #10 Brandon Davis, 1:25.479 (82.883 mph)
Sunoco Hard Charger: #01 Jeff Altenburg advanced eight positions in the race
Racing Electronics Hole Shot Award: #66 Tim McKenzie advanced six positions on the opening lap

SCCA SPEED GT Drivers Championship Standings
After Two of 10 Rounds

Pos., Driver, Car, Points (wins)
1, Randy Pobst, Porsche 911 GT3, 220 (1)
2, Brandon Davis, Ford Mustang Cobra, 208 (2)
3, Andy Pilgrim, Cadillac CTS-V, 198
4, Michael Galati, Porsche 911 GT3, 182
5, Jason Daskalos, Dodge Viper, 145
6, James Sofronas, Porsche 911 GT3, 144
7, Mike Davis, Ford Mustang Cobra, 144
8, Jeff Courtney, Dodge Viper, 140
9, Tony Gaples, Chevrolet Corvette, 124
10, Jeff Altenburg, Dodge Viper, 119

SCCA SPEED GT Manufacturers Championship Presented by RACER Magazine
After Two of 10 Rounds

Pos., Manufacturer, Points (wins)
1, Porsche, 16 (1)
2, Cadillac, 12
3, Dodge, 3
4, Chevrolet, 1

Posted On 4/20/08

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Former SCCA Pro Racing President Greenwood Passes

Sat, 19 Apr 2008 08:31:54 PST

Former SCCA Pro Racing President Greenwood Passes
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

LONG BEACH, Calif. (April 18, 2008) – SCCA Pro Racing was saddened to hear of the passing this morning of former company president Dan Greenwood.

Greenwood served as President of SCCA Pro Racing from 1994-1998. Prior to his time at SCCA Pro Racing, he was vice president of the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee for the 1984 LA Olympic Games.

His motorsports career began after the games, serving as president of Riverside Raceway for four years. Following Riverside’s closing, Greenwood was a sports marketing consultant for the 1990 Goodwill Games and the Paramount Pictures movie Days of Thunder. He even had a cameo appearance in the film as a reporter.

Prior to his SCCA Pro Racing post, Greenwood also served as president of International Motor Sports Association (IMSA). Following his departure from SCCA Pro Racing, he was the vice president of Pikes Peak International Raceway.

“I remember Dan well from my time on the manufacturer side in motorsports,” SCCA Pro Racing President and CEO Robert Wildberger said. “He will be missed.”

Posted On 4/19/08

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Drissi On IR After Long Beach Practice Crash

Sat, 19 Apr 2008 01:31:35 PST

Drissi On IR After Long Beach Practice Crash
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

LONG BEACH, Calif. (April 19, 2008) – Tomy Drissi, of Hollywood, Calif., will be out the remainder of the SCCA Pro Racing Long Beach SPEED GT Presented by Applied Computer Solutions weekend, and possibly longer, after sustaining a fractured lower vertebrae in a practice crash on Friday.

Drissi’s No. 15 What Happens In Vegas – The Movie Chevrolet Corvette reportedly experienced a stuck throttle as it entered Turn Two on the 1.968-mile street circuit. The car skipped over the fountain curbs, cleaned out the landscaping and then struck the tire wall. The impact broke the concrete barrier the tire wall protected.

Following the incident, Drissi was transported to St. Mary’s Hospital in Long Beach, where he remained overnight for tests and observation. Drissi’s American Le Mans Series team, Autocon Racing, reported that he would be released Saturday and fitted with a back brace for up to six weeks. Drissi was also to have driven in this afternoon’s ALMS race.

Drissi has considerable experience at Long Beach and scored his lone Trans-Am Series win at the circuit in 2000.

Sunday’s Round Two race is scheduled to make its standing start at 4 p.m. (PDT) and will air on SPEED Wednesday, April 30 at noon (EDT), 9 a.m. (PDT).

Attached: Image of Tomy Drissi moments before impacting the Turn Two wall Friday at Long Beach.
Credit: Mark Weber/SCCA

Posted On 4/19/08

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Archer and Burtin Join Woodhouse Performance for 2008

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 08:42:48 PST

Archer and Burtin Join Woodhouse Performance for 2008
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

Courtesy Woodhouse Performance

LONG BEACH, Calif. (April 18, 2008) - Woodhouse Performance is proud to announce the line-up of Trans-Am and SPEED World Challenge veterans Tommy Archer and Claudio Burtin to drive together for the balance of the 2008 SPEED World Challenge season. Driving the No. 13 Foametix/Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, the duo will join forces with teammate Jeff Courtney in the No. 99 KENDA/MPI-Coin Viper to create a two-car team assault for the SCCA SPEED GT Manufacturers’ Championship Presented by RACER.

“Woodhouse Motorsports has one of the best reputations in this form of racing, and it is a true honor to be driving the No. 13 Dodge Viper,” said Burtin, who will be driving select races throughout the 2008 season depending on scheduling conflicts. “Long Beach is in many ways a home race for me, and I have to thank Bob [Woodhouse] and everyone at the team for allowing me the opportunity, it’s going to be a great season.”

With two decades of experience in motorsports, Georgia-native Burtin is joining the team with a reputation as one of the sport’s most versatile drivers. Having driven a number of different high-horsepower vehicles from Ford Mustangs to Chevrolet Corvettes in the SCCA Trans-Am series, to most recently competing in a Porsche 997 GT3 Cup car in the 2008 Rolex 24 at Daytona, Burtin is known for his ability to consistently and patiently get any vehicle up to pace.

Driving the remaining races in the No. 13 will be series legend Tommy Archer. As the 2004 SCCA SPEED GT Champion, Archer brings a wealth of experience in different vehicles to the table, and most notably joins the team as perhaps the most well known Dodge Viper driver in the series.

“I am very pleased that we will be running a full season with the No. 13,” Bob Woodhouse, owner of Woodhouse Performance said. “The wild paint on that car has become well known in the series, so I’m very happy to see it represented well with Tommy and Claudio. Headed into Long Beach, Claudio should be a great asset to the team with all of his experience at the track, not to mention he grew up around that area, so it should be a pretty good weekend.”

Long Beach SPEED GT presented by Applied Computer Solutions will be run at 4 p.m. (PDT) Sunday, April 20th, on the streets of Long Beach, capping off a sensational weekend of racing, including The American LeMans Series, Champ Car, The Atlantic Championship and Formula Drift.

Divided into two separate series and races (SCCA SPEED GT and SCCA SPEED Touring Car), the SCCA SPEED World Challenge Championships are America’s top production car-based series. Competing at 12 high-profile venues in 2008, the series is an important showcase for the world’s leading auto brands and makers of performance parts. SCCA SPEED World Challenge events are a maximum of 50 minutes in length, feature standing starts and the world’s most popular manufacturers racing head-to-head. For more information see www.world-challenge.com.

Posted On 4/18/08

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Newport ProSolo Makes Debut

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 08:48:12 PST

Newport ProSolo Makes Debut
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

NEWPORT, Ark. (April 15, 2008) – The Newport Municipal Airport, located in the northeast corner of Arkansas, had never hosted a Solo event before, but that didn’t stop the Arkansas Region from diving head first into the Solo pool and hosting the second Tire Rack® SCCA ProSolo Series event of the season.

Newport and the surrounding area had been plagued with rain and flooding in the weeks leading up to last weekend’s ProSolo, but the rain held off long enough to get the entire event in dry, albeit with unseasonably cool temperatures.

Newport was the first single-course event of the year So smooth and efficient was the event that the city owned and operated airport offered the use of both runways for next year, which would allow room for a second course.

While oftentimes a new venue results in surprise winners, that was not the case in Newport, where Solo powerhouse Andy Hollis was dominant all weekend. After winning Bump Class 1 in his Soulspeed/ART/GRM Honda Civic Si, Hollis tore through the competition in the Hawk Super Challenge to take home the top prize and Honda Tuner Challenge Honors. Hollis even walked away with the Honda Hot Shoe award after facing Joe Tharpe’s A Stock-winning Tire Rack Honda S2000 in the final shootout. After a weekend of runner-up finishs at El Toro, Hollis walked away with a sweet paycheck for his performance at Newport.

After finishing third in Ladies Class 2 driving the familiar Isotope Wheels/Automotive Pros Toyota MR2, Meredith Brown would not be denied the top spot in the Ladies Challenge, where she beat L2 winner Tara Johns and her ABC Plumbing Mazda Miata.

Michelle Seeling took the ChaseCam Bonus Challenge win in a Bridgestone/Carbotech/Redline Honda CRX Si, beating out Jeff Spector’s Spector Racing/Donnies Foreign Car Honda Civic Si for the victory.

Several class victories were extremely close, including Chris Harvey’s B Stock win. Harvey’s Tire Rack Mazda RX-8 was just 0.188-second faster than the Vettesport/Koni RX-8 of Carter Thompson. In C Stock, Darrin DiSimo’s Mazda MX-5 out maneuvered Craig Wilcox’s Oasis Tan/ZZYZX Motorsports MX-5 by only 0.164-second.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Mark Madarash crushed his E Street Prepared competition, winning the class by more than 4.5 seconds in a Pontiac Trans-Am. And despite starting the weekend with a two-cone penalty on his first run, Jeffrey Pilson came storming back to take the H Stock win in a Subaru Impreza.

The Tire Rack SCCA ProSolo Series takes a break before picking things back up on May 17 – 18 at Atlanta Motor Speedway for the return of the Atlanta Doublecross. The next single-course ProSolo event will be at the Seneca Army Depot in Romulus, N.Y., July 26 – 27.

For full results from the Newport ProSolo and more information on upcoming Solo events, visit www.scca.com/solo.

Posted On 4/15/08

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Hope puts Spoon Sports/Opak Racing Back to the USTCC Winner Circle

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 08:57:51 PST

Hope puts Spoon Sports/Opak Racing Back to the USTCC Winner Circle
By Ryan Cristobal

April 14th, 2008/Sonoma, Ca. – After almost a season long break from USTCC competition, the 2005 championship car and team returns to the winner circle at this past weekend’s second round of the 2008 NITTO Tire U.S. Touring Car Championship at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, California. The very familiar yellow and blue clad JDM right hand drive Acura RSX-R of Spoons Sports/Opak Racing was driven to victory lane by Hope. Not that kind of Hope, but by the form of Andy Hope of Sports Compact Car Magazine.

Behind the wheel of the #8 Acura RSX, Hope drove a hard charging race to make a last lap pass on the race leader and pole winner 2007 USTCC Champion Curt Simmons in the #49 Cornwell Tools/Sunnyvale Dodge/MBO Racing Dodge SRT-4 who finished in second place.

For the second consecutive race in a row, Simmons qualified his SRT-4 on the pole and got a great launch off the standing start and easily pulled away from the rest of the field, but a race is never over until the fat lady sings and sang she did. Hope in the RSX-R who started in third position put his head down and picked his way through the field to get up front to gain ground on Simmons. Finally when the white flag came out the two crossed the start-finish line neck and neck. Hope was able to put a move on Simmons to take a small lead through turns four down through the carousel. Simmons was able to take the lead back and tried to shut the door, but Hope was able to sneak his nose in one last time going into turn seven side by side but was able to squeeze by Simmons and pull away exiting the turn to take the checkered flag.

“This is the most fun race I’ve ever been part of. The win is definitely the cherry on top and to win it in late last lap fashion is just awesome. The car was awesome and Simmons was tough. The Spoon Sports/Opak Racing team guys did an awesome job setting up the car,” said a very elated Andy Hope.

In third place was David Bongiovanni in the #88 Goodsport Racing Mitsubishi EVO, who placed on the podium for the second consecutive time after winning the opening round. With the podium finish Bongiovanni is now tied in the Driver Championship points with Simmons and has a 10 point lead over Rod Rojas, driver of the #44 Molecule/Go Pro Camera Chevy Cobalt SS.

For the second consecutive race in a row, the top three spots were comprised by two new comers vying for the top rookie standings after two rookies swept the top two steps on the opening round. At the first round at Thunderhill, the top six finishers were comprised of six different manufacturers. At Infineon, the top seven positions were different manufacturers with Acura taking the win followed by Dodge, Mitsubishi, BMW, Chevrolet, Honda, and Mini.

Be sure to watch all of the action of the Nitto Tire US Touring Car Championship on Final Drive TV available on selected cable TV networks as well as www.finaldrive.net. The teams next return to Thunderhill on May 3-4 only to race the track in the opposite direction.

Posted On 4/14/08

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Rod Rojas captures Third Place in Ongoing Battle to Secure 2008 USTCC Title

Sat, 15 Mar 2008 08:45:17 PST

Rod Rojas captures Third Place in Ongoing Battle to Secure 2008 USTCC Title
By Ali Arsham, USTCC

April 15, 2008 (Benicia, Calif.) – Factory Molecule driver Rod Rojas took fifth position in the second United States Touring Car Championships (USTCC) at Infineon Raceway April 13, 2008.

Infineon Raceway, nestled in the Sonoma Hills, has been a favorite of West Coast racers for 40 years. During Saturday’s practice race on Infineon’s 2.52 mile track, Rojas piloted Team Cobalt California’s 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Turbocharged Car No. 48 to an outstanding 1.54.995 lap time.

A mishap later in the practice session warranted immediate repairs to the Cobalt.

"We had an on- track incident with some slower classed traffic during practice, Rojas said, “Considerable damage to the left front of the Chevy caused us to chase the set-up on the car for the rest of the weekend. The team did a tremendous job getting 48 back on the track; I can't thank them enough for their efforts. I only wish I could have placed better for the team."

Rojas took the green flag during Sunday’s race utilizing his qualifying position to weave through traffic.

“It was good to see the Cobalt back on the track”, team owner Thomas Lepper said, “It took a pretty good hit on Saturday. The team worked into the evening and Sunday morning so that the Cobalt would be ready for qualifying”.

The checkered flag waved Rojas into a fifth place finish.

Rojas’ accumulation of 175 points set Rojas in third place in the ongoing quest for the 2008 championship with a 20-point lead over the forth place position of Pete Bovenberg.

USTCC is sanctioned by National Auto Sports Association (NASA). The next USTCC race will be held at Gateway Raceway, in Madison, Illinois April 27, 2008. Rojas’ next USTCC race will be Thunderhill Raceway Park, in Willows, California on May 4, 2008.

Rojas would like to welcome two new associate sponsors to the USTCC partner line-up: MOLECULE Nomex Care Products and GoPro Hero Digital Cameras.

"It's always nice to have new series sponsors come on board”, Rojas said, “MOLECULE and GoPro are both terrific motorsports products and we appreciate their support and interest in the USTCC series."

Returning as established sponsors are Jim Russell Racing Schools and F1 Development.

Posted On 3/15/08

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San Francisco Region SCCA Announces 2008 Series Featuring Special Events

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 05:31:06 PST

San Francisco Region SCCA Announces 2008 Series Featuring Special Events
By Sherry Grantz, SFR SCCA

Willows, CA (February 6, 2008) - The San Francisco Region of the Sports Car Club of America has scheduled eleven weekends of amateur road racing for 2008. Special events include the popular AIM/Toyo Spec Miata Challenge Series, Feature Class Festival Races, and two vintage events. The season will run from March through October with races scheduled at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, Infineon Raceway, and the club-owned Thunderhill Park.

Kicking off the season, is our annual Gathering of Champions Double National, March 14-16. This year there will be a full three days of racing and Spec Miata will have its own group. All drivers will enjoy two practice, qualifying and race sessions. The Regional Championship Series opens with the traditional regional at Infineon Raceway on March 29-30.

The AIM/Toyo Spec Miata Challenge returns this year, with a three-race series and $10,000 in prize money to be distributed to the top 30 drivers at the end of the series. Dates for the series are: April 12-13 at Laguna Seca during the Vintage Spring Classic; July 26-27 at the Thunderhill Regional #7; and the season-ending regional and RDC Enduro weekend at Thunderhill on October 24-26. All Miatas raced as SM, SMT or SSM may compete.

Also in the Spec Miata program will be a Future Champions Race during the June 27-29 Regional at Laguna Seca. This race gives an opportunity to those who finish out of the top ten in the Group 7 race to compete for the checkered flag, special trophies, and $3500 in SFR Bucks, certificates for entry credits in future SFR regional events.

The popular Feature Class Festivals will offer an additional race for specific classes, giving the drivers a second race with no additional entry fee. Winners receive special trophies and everyone in the class is entered in a drawing for prizes and gifts. The Festival races will be held: May 3-4 for Spec Racer Ford; May 23-25 for ITE; August 30-Sept. 1 for SMT/SSM; October 3-5 for Formula Ford and Club Ford; and October 24-26 for Formula Vee.

The RDC Illgen Enduro moves back to Thunderhill Park, along with the final Double Points Regional on October 24-26. This will also be the Willows Grand Prix, with added community activities such as the Willows High School marching band performing on Saturday and a Willows Rotary Club pancake breakfast.

For the first time ever, San Francisco Region will hold two vintage events in one year. The first will be the Spring Sports Car Festival at Laguna Seca on April 12-13, similar to last year’s event. Added to the schedule is the Vintage Fall Harvest Classic at Infineon Raceway on September 20-21. Both events will offer grids for small and big bore production cars, small bore formula cars and sports racers, and pre-1995 NASCAR. The September event will also feature at Mini Challenge that should bring 40+ Minis out to scurry around the track together.

In addition to the race weekends, two special test days for San Francisco Region members will be held at Thunderhill Park for the feature classes. April 10 will be for Group 4 cars: SRF, FF, CF, and FV. July 2 will be for Spec Miatas and ITE (any car that is eligible for ITE, not just those regularly competing in ITE).

All schedule details, SMC Challenge and listing of Festival prizes will be made available on the Region web page as soon as they are available. Weekend schedules generally are posted four to six weeks before the event. See www.sfrscca.org

Posted On 2/8/08

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SCCA Leadership Heads to San Antonio for 2008 Convention

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 09:07:49 PST

SCCA Leadership Heads to San Antonio for 2008 Convention
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Feb. 5, 2008) – Sports Car Club of America members and leaders will descend on San Antonio, Texas, Feb. 7 – 9, for the 2008 SCCA National Convention. More than just an annual meeting required by the Club’s bylaws, the annual convention is a celebration of the previous year’s achievements, a preview of changes to come and perhaps most importantly, the perfect place for members to shape the future of the Club.

Each day of the SCCA National Convention offers members an array of seminars with topics varying from the new Street Survival program to Solo site acquisition, as well as Safety Steward and technical training. In addition to the presentations prepared by each department at the SCCA National Office, members can take part in Town Halls for their program of interest and ask questions directly to those who lead the governing boards.

In between sessions, a variety of exhibitors will be on hand to entice and educate SCCA members. If safety is your priority for 2008, BSR Safety Products will be showcasing the new S.A.V.E. Motorsport Safety Barriers and HANS Performance Products will have a full range of HANS Devices available. To make sure you’re getting the most out of your vehicle, Hawk Performance, the Official Brake Products of SCCA, and Toyo Tires, the Official Tire of SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge, will have products on display.

Regions preparing for their next big event can swing by the MotorsportReg.com and Genius Motorsports displays to learn about these new programs designed to simplify event management and member communication. Once you’ve got your competitors registered, the folks at the AMB booth can help you clock them precisely, then take a peak at the dazzling trophies and awards that can be created for your next podium celebration by Prize Possessions.

It’s never too soon to start planning for the 2008 National Championship Runoffs or Solo National Championships, and that’s why Visit Topeka, Inc. will have a booth to assist you with all your travel, lodging and dining questions.

Of course, SCCA will have its own merchandise available for sale so you can show off your passion for motorsports.

If you missed him at the Runoffs, artist Lou Byer will also be on hand with his unique motorsports art work.

Several social gatherings highlight the 2008 National Convention. Award luncheons are scheduled each day and members are invited to “Discover the Riverwalk” on Friday evening. The Convention closes with the SCCA Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Banquet on Saturday evening.

For a full 2008 SCCA National Convention schedule see www.scca.com. Until then, see you in San Antonio!

Posted On 2/5/08

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Hooked On Driving Introduces David Mecey As New Southern Cal/Las Vegas Franchisee

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 11:07:53 PST

Hooked On Driving Introduces David Mecey As New Southern Cal/Las Vegas Franchisee
By Hooked On Driving

December 28, 2007 – Danville, CA/Venice, CA. With documents signed today, Mecey Enterprises, Inc., a California corporation, owned by renowned photographer, car enthusiast, and driving instructor, David Mecey, has become the owner/operator of the Hooked on Driving, Southern California/Las Vegas franchise.

In providing top quality performance driving programs, Hooked On Driving reaches out to every driving enthusiast, no matter what make of car they drive or performance driving background. They welcome the novice driver as much as the experienced track driver with pro level instructors and programs suited for every participant.

“When we were searching for the person to build our Southern California franchise, we wanted someone who had similar ideals and the determination we felt was needed to work in what many consider the heart of the automobile culture in the USA,” quoted David Ray, owner of Hooked on Driving. “I had two trusted sources, both recommended David Mecey to us, and we feel fortunate to have connected with him. Our discussions were electric, as we truly share a vision for what our program should be and the enthusiasm boiled over into a signed agreement!”

Mecey comes from a background of not only being an avid car enthusiast, but also a racer and driving instructor for a number of years. In fact, he is currently a Chief Driving Instructor for the Los Angeles Chapter of the BMW Car Club of America. Ray adds, “David brings a knowledge of the industry and a background we want in our franchise owners. He has great ideas and really wants to help make HOD grow.”

“I am beyond excited by this opportunity” says Mecey, “and I have pledged my best ideas, my energy, and my enthusiasm about cars and performance driving to David and the Hooked on Driving organization. David (Ray) already has such an excellent program, making it possible for folks to bring out their sporting cars of every make and enjoy them as they should be enjoyed, with supervision and instruction keeping it safe, fun, and entertaining. I love it!”

Hooked on Driving (www.hookedondriving.com) launched a strategic national growth plan during 2007. Mecey’s Southern California operation joins that of the Northeastern Region owned by Joe Mills, of Yardley, Pa. Ray states that it is “quality, not quantity” in selecting franchisees for other key regions of the U.S., and he anticipates more signings in 2008. '

Also in 2007, HOD released “Getting On Track,” a professionally produced DVD on driving techniques (available at Amazon.com & Netflix) as well as provided feature articles for a new magazine entitled “High Performance Driving.” Key corporate partners, Shell V-Power and Yokohama/ADVAN tires work with HOD to add value and technical assistance to HOD drivers.

Be watching for the Hooked on Driving Southern California/Las Vegas region to be introduced on the www.hookedondriving.com website soon, where you can sign up for any number of their schools in 2008. The Southern Cal/Las Vegas schedule will be announced as soon as possible in January 2008. You may reach David Mecey through the Hooked on Driving website, or, at his HOD email address, dmecey@hookedondriving.com.

Posted On 1/3/08

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BimmerWorld Sponsors BMW CCA Club Racing Schools

Wed, 05 Dec 2007 12:21:16 PST

BimmerWorld Sponsors BMW CCA Club Racing Schools
By Mark Dadgar, BMW CCA Club Racing

Dublin, VA (Dec 5. 2007) – BMW CCA Club Racing is proud to announce that BimmerWorld, the renowned supplier of BMW street and racing performance parts, has become the title sponsor of the BMW CCA Club Racing School program.

"Everyone in the professional motorsports community knows BimmerWorld," said BMW CCA Club Racing Chairman Mike Mills. "What they may not know is how supportive BimmerWorld has been of BMW CCA Club Racing over the years. BimmerWorld's title sponsorship of the Club Racing School program is indicative of their commitment to BMW CCA Club Racing and its wide community of racers both today and in the future."

The nine planned BimmerWorld BMW CCA Club Racing Schools in 2008 will be held at various racing facilities around the United States, supported by both BMW CCA Club Racing and local sponsoring BMW CCA chapters.

"We have been involved with BMW CCA Club Racing for a long time," said BimmerWorld founder James Clay. "But we felt that it was time to make our relationship more formal. Helping experienced drivers become racers benefits the entire racing community and we are proud to step up to support the Club Racing School program."

BimmerWorld race team drivers James Clay and Seth Thomas will be involved with Club Racing Schools as their busy schedules permit. Please check www.bmwccaclubracing.com for a complete schedule of BMW CCA Club Racing Schools for 2008.

For more information about BimmerWorld, please visit:

http://www.BimmerWorld.com

For more information about BMW CCA Club Racing please visit:

http://www.bmwccaclubracing.com

About BimmerWorld
BimmerWorld is a leading retailer of high performance street and racing BMW parts whose racing program continually drives development for the increasing line of BMW performance equipment. BimmerWorld customers expect the very best. Information on BimmerWorld’s Customer Car Services can be found at www.BimmerWorld.com. More information about the BimmerWorld team, cars, and drivers can be found at www.BimmerWorldracing.com.

About BMW CCA Club Racing
Founded in 1995, BMW CCA Club Racing offers all BMW CCA licensed club racers a competitive driving experience conducted in a fun, safe, and friendly environment for all types of factory authorized or constructed BMWs. For more information, please visit our web site at http://www.bmwccaclubracing.com

Contact:
James Clay
BimmerWorld
james@BimmerWorld.com
(540) 639-9648

Mark Dadgar
Marketing Director, BMW CCA Club Racing
mark@justracing.com
(408) 348-2878

Posted On 12/5/07

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Gordy Named SCCA Chairman of the Board

Tue, 04 Dec 2007 11:04:27 PST

Gordy Named SCCA Chairman of the Board
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Dec. 4, 2007) – The Sports Car Club of America, Inc. Board of Directors welcomed three new members of the Board this past weekend in its final face-to-face meeting of the year, and appointed R.J. Gordy, of Martinez, Calif., its Chairman for 2008.

Gordy will assume the Chairman duties January 1 from outgoing Chairman Robert Introne, who did not seek re-election. Gordy represents Area 9 (Northern California) on the 13-member Board of Directors, which governs the 50,000-member motorsports organization. Gordy began his three-year term on the Board in 2006.

"I am deeply honored to assume the position as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sports Car Club of America,” Gordy said. “Some significant challenges lie ahead. However, I am confident that our team will overcome these challenges as we continue to offer motorsports enthusiasts the finest venue in which to enjoy their passion."

Gordy joined SCCA in 1985, beginning a 21-year driving career in Spec Racer Ford. Recognizing that he would not be able to drive forever, but wanting to ensure involvement, Gordy joined the Club Racing steward’s program in 1994. He was elected to the San Francisco Region Board of Directors in 1998, and began a five-year term as the group’s Regional Executive in 2001. In addition to being an active driver, steward and region leader, Gordy was selected to be a pace car driver at the National Championship Runoffs beginning in 2001 and has done so since.

Also elected into a new office was John Sheridan, of Altamont, N.Y., who takes over the Vice Chairman position vacated by Gordy. Sheridan was re-elected to his Director position in Area 10 (Northeast) in November and will begin his second three-year term in 2008.

K.P. Jones, of The Villages, Fla., remains the Board of Directors Treasurer and Jim Christian, of Boulder, Colo., remains its Secretary. Introne remains on the SCCA Board of Directors Executive Committee as its fifth member.

Jerry Wannarka (Area 2), Lisa Noble (Area 6) and Philip Creighton (Area 12) were all welcomed at the meeting as new members to the Board of Directors, beginning their formal duties the first of the year.

Posted On 12/4/07

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MON DIEU! LE 2008 LeMONS SCHEDULE

Sat, 01 Dec 2007 11:01:52 PST

MON DIEU! LE 2008 LeMONS SCHEDULE
By Jay Lamm, Chief Perpetrator

After much fiddling and diddling and rending of hair--which, clearly, I can hardly afford--we've finally nailed down the 2008 schedule. Several racetrack owners had to be locked into broom closets to get this together, so I hope something in here works for you:

May 10-11, 2008: Altamont Motorsports Park, Tracy CA
June 21-22, 2008: Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Las Vegas NV
July 26-27, 2008: Carolina Motorsports Park, Kershaw SC
August 23-24, 2008: Stafford Motor Speedway, Stafford Springs CT
September 13-14, 2008: Toledo Speedway (Detroit), Toledo OH
October TBD, 2008: Thunderhill Raceway Park, Willows CA

Okay--a couple quick notes. First, we may add one or two more races later. Then again, we may not. Frankly, I'm a little bit woozy just thinking about it right now.

Second, the entry deadline for each '08 race will be ten weeks before the event. As always, after the deadline our illustrious comrades in the Glorious People's Selection Secretariat will choose teams from amongst all the received applications. Acceptance/rejection notices will go out the following week.

I think that, as they say, is that. Hope to see you at one of these, or to at least smell the evocative waft of your clutch packing it in. Best &c & so on--J

Jay Lamm, Chief Perp
24 HOURS OF LeMONS

Posted On 12/1/07

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SCCA Announces 2008 Hall of Fame Inductees

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 10:58:53 PST

SCCA Announces 2008 Hall of Fame Inductees
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Nov. 30, 2007) - Sports Car Club of America, Inc. has announced the four individuals and one couple who will be enshrined in the SCCA Hall of Fame class of 2008.

Roger Johnson, Don and Ruth Nixon, Kjell Qvale, Robert Ridges, and Fred Schmucker will join the 20 individuals previously inducted in 2005, 2006 and 2007 during the February 2 enshrinement ceremony that will close the 2008 SCCA National Convention in San Antonio, Texas.

Profiles:

Roger E. Johnson: A multiple Solo Champion, Johnson was the first Solo competitor to bring major commercial attention to the sport through his sponsorship arrangement with BF Goodrich Tires. Johnson interacted with BF Goodrich dealers and his victories were featured in product advertising. This paved the way for major commercial support for the Solo National Championships, first from Yokohama, then from The Tire Rack®, as well as Valvoline’s support of ProSolo in the early 90s. Johnson is known just as much for his personality as his Solo skills. The annual Johnson Spirit of the Sport Award, named in his honor, was the first Solo award named after a participant and he served as a memorable emcee at the National Convention for many years.

Don and Ruth Nixon: The Nixons are the first couple to be inducted into the Hall of Fame and for anyone who knew them, it would be impossible to think of them apart. The pair traveled the country as Timing and Scoring officials, bringing the specialty into the electronic age, from single hand, analog stopwatches, to digital clocks and chronograph timers that allowed a small team of workers to time an entire field of cars. They served in leadership roles at the Regional, Divisional and National level, and both were elected to the Board of Directors, Ruth being the first female to receive the honor. Don also served as the publisher of SportsCar for some time.

Kjell Qvale: Qvale put the “sports car” in Sports Car Club of America. He is known far outside the SCCA for his impact on the United States auto industry, importing European sports cars that fueled the 50s car frenzy. Qvale was the first major importer of MGs before expanding his line to include Jaguar, Bentley and others. He eventually became involved in German cars as well, bringing Volkswagen into the U.S. In addition to providing the cars that made the SCCA go, Qvale was a key organizer of West Coast races at Buchanan Field, Golden Gate Park and Pebble Beach. When racing was forced off the streets, he aided in the creation of Laguna Seca and is credited with the vision that created the famed Corkscrew, one of road racing’s most celebrated turns. In addition to fielding numerous cars in SCCA, Qvale was able to put together a successful Indy 500 team as well.

Robert Ridges: Secretary of the Rally board from its inception in 1957 until his death, Ridges was one of those responsible for road rallying in the U.S. as we know it. He played a major role in the creation of the early RoadRally rules and was the continuity that helped steer the early Rally boards. Upon his death in 1965, SportsCar said of him: “Bob was a sportsman in the truest sense of the word. To him, sportsmanship lay in the manner of performance rather than in the winning; though as a competitor he always strived to do his best. His honesty, integrity, sincerity and never failing good humor as well as his dedication to sports car activities has left an indelible mark." His name graces the award given to the SCCA member who exemplifies the highest degree of dedication and sportsmanship to the sport of rally

Fred Schmucker: A member of the SCCA Hall of Fame Selection Committee until his death this past August, Schmucker is remembered as always putting the Club first. Becoming a member in 1961 with the Florida Region, Schmucker’s SCCA career is decorated with dozens of committee appointments, awards and stewardships that span several Regions and more than four decades. He served as an F&C Chief for the Florida Region in the 60s, moving to the Northeast Oklahoma Region in 1965 where he became the Region Secretary and later, Assistant Regional Executive. From 1968 to 1995 he was a member of the Dixie Region, climbing all the way to RE and serving as a Solo II Safety Steward and SIT to the National Chief Steward. He was the Southeast Division Executive Steward from 1987 to 1993, was on the SCCA Court of Appeals from 1995 to 1997 and was heavily involved with the South Atlantic Road Racing Championship (SARRC). He became a member of the SCCA Stewards Committee in 2002 and the SEDIV Executive Steward in 2003. Throughout his service he became a role model to many in the Club, setting an example of what a Steward should be. His contributions were recognized with the John C Reuter, Robert W. Clark and Bryan Webb Awards from SEDIV as well as the John McGill and Dave Morrell Awards from SCCA.

The five 2008 inductees will join the three previous classes, including:
2005: Cameron Argetsinger, A. Tracy Bird, John Fitch, Arthur Gervais, Harry Handley, Vern Jaques, Bill Milliken, Sue Roethel, Art Trier and Rob Walker.
2006: John Bornholdt, John Buffum, Mark Donohue, Denise McCluggage and Grant Reynolds.
2007: Marge Binks, Marc Gerstein, Carl A. Haas, General Curtis E. LeMay, Theodore F. Robertson.

The formation of the SCCA Hall of Fame was announced February 7, 2004 at the National Convention. Hall of Fame inductees are selected for having made a significant contribution to the development and/or the preservation of SCCA that had a direct impact on the Club being the organization it is today.

Nominations were submitted to and reviewed by the Hall of Fame Nomination and Selection Committees. Of the nominated individuals, five were selected for the 2008 Class.

Posted On 11/30/07

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Dale Sievwright Tackles the 25 Hours of Thunderhill with Scion SPEED Touring Car Team

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 02:32:16 PST

Dale Sievwright Tackles the 25 Hours of Thunderhill with Scion SPEED Touring Car Team
By Dale Sievright

Driver is reunited with MPME team to try and better their 2005 25hr 3rd place finish

USTCC veteran Dale Sievwright has joined the MPME Scion/Modified Magazine 25 Hours of Thunderhill team to take another shot at improving upon his 3rd place finish from 2005. An experienced chassis engineer and test driver during the week, Sievwright looks forward to getting the most from the 300hp FWD turbocharged Scion tC he’ll steer this weekend at Thunderhill Raceway near Sacramento, California.

"I wasn’t able to race in the 25hr last year, but I’ve been working to get back and can’t wait to reunited with MPME, and my 2005 co-driver Gary Sheehan behind the wheel of the SPEED touring Car Scion."

While Sievwright has been away from the 25 Hour race for two years, he’s kept busy racing in NASA’s U.S. Touring Car Championship, and test driving in GrandAm Rolex GT machinery. "I’m fortunate to make a living working with Evosport in Huntington Beach, California—our motto is ‘From the street, to the track,’ and that’s exactly how I help our customers—to assist them with the best performance products for their cars, or to aid them at the track to become better drivers or to tune their chassis. Getting to do the same in purebred racing cars like I do with USTCC or Rolex cars is just icing on the cake."

The light weight, high power combo in the Scion’s front wheel drive platform isn’t something the Jamaican-born driver is concerned about. "Sure, it’s different than the BMW’s or Porsche’s I’ve raced more recently, but I started racing in front wheel drive cars—that’s where I have the most experience, actually. The Scion should be a blast."

As one of a number of drivers in the MPME team, the opportunity to share the car and experience with other veteran drivers was of particular interest. "I already mentioned how much I enjoyed racing with Gary in 2005—he’s an absolute pro. Mark Hotchkis is someone I’ve always admired and followed as he ascended the pro racing ranks into victory circle—we should have a lot of fun together. Racing with Matt Varsha and Tanner Foust should also be great—they’ve both accomplished so much in such a short amount of time. I’m also looking forward to racing with Dave Pratte from Modified Magazine—I’ve read that mag for years, so seeing our car and team in an issue next year will be awesome."

Follow Dale’s progress this weekend on www.SPEEDtv.com, and learn more about his career and experience at www.dalesievwright.com

Posted On 11/28/07

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WORKS Partners with Mitsubishi to Campaign Lancer in SPEED World Challenge

Tue, 27 Nov 2007 10:46:45 PST

WORKS Partners with Mitsubishi to Campaign Lancer in SPEED World Challenge
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (Nov. 27, 2007) –At the recent Los Angeles Auto Show, the curtains were pulled on the new WORKS built Mitsubishi Lancer, set to compete in the 2008 SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship.

WORKS, which is known as the preeminent Mitsubishi tuner in North America, views the move to SPEED World Challenge as a great opportunity to showcase the new Lancer and bring Mitsubishi back to World Challenge after a seven year absence.

“To get involved in professional racing with a manufacturer whose vehicles inspired WORKS to start in the first place is a dream come true,” stated WORKS founder and CEO Peter Kang. “We are looking forward to a challenging and successful year in SPEED World Challenge.”

Coming right on the heels of its grand opening at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, Calif., this announcement marks another major step for WORKS as they continue to expand in the motorsports world.

"Mitsubishi Motors North America is pleased to be associated with WORKS, and we look forward to their successful efforts in the SPEED World Challenge races," said Jun Asami, Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations at MMNA. "The SWC Lancer is certain to demonstrate the strength of this all-new Lancer platform and give tuners worldwide inspiration to customize their cars."

With significant research and development time already invested into the project, the WORKS SWC Lancer will continue its efforts through the off-season with the goal of running a full racing schedule for the 2008 calendar year. Two-time (2005 and 2006) United States Touring Car champion David Brown will be spearheading the driving effort for 2008.

“Everyone at SCCA Pro Racing is excited about the return of Mitsubishi to World Challenge,” SCCA Pro Racing President and CEO Bob Wildberger said. “Certainly the competitiveness of the series and high-profile events make SPEED World Challenge the perfect place for Mitsubishi and WORKS to showcase the new Lancer. I welcome them to our paddock and look forward to seeing the WORKS Lancer go head-to-head with our other teams.”

The WORKS SPEED World Challenge Lancer already boasts an impressive build list including front and rear WORKS/Öhlins coilovers, WORKS two-piece rotors featuring Brembo aluminum calipers, a WORKS racing clutch with ‘Spin’ flywheel and a fully built and balanced Mitsubishi four-cylinder engine. Inside the car there is a WORKS ‘Throw’ short shifter with ‘Grab’ shift knob, WORKS carbon fiber panels, a single Recaro Pro Racer seat, Tilton pedal assembly and a custom roll cage installed by Impact Engineering. Pending final homologation, the SWC Lancer will receive a few more racing and performance parts from WORKS and their partners before heading to tracks across the US and Canada.

For more information about where to see the WORKS Lancer racing with SCCA SPEED World Challenge, visit www.world-challenge.com

Posted On 11/27/07

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2008 SCCA GCR Now Available Online

Tue, 20 Nov 2007 10:42:45 PST

2008 SCCA GCR Now Available Online
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Nov. 20, 2007) – The 2008 Sports Car Club of America General Competition Rulebook is now available for download from the SCCA Web site and will be available in hard copy shortly.

As always, the 2008 GCR is made available online by SCCA Club Racing as a courtesy to entrants, volunteers and anyone interested in learning more about the technical regulations governing SCCA Club Racing. You can download the entire book or individual sections in PDF format at www.scca.com/club, then select “cars and rules” in the left hand menu.

A hard copy of the GCR will mailed to all licensed Club Racers by the first of the year and will be available soon through SCCA’s merchandise partner, Imperial Marketing, who can be contacted by calling 888-267-2187 or by visiting its Web site at www.sccacollection.com.

Posted On 11/20/07

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SCCA SPEED World Challenge 2008 Partial Schedule Released

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 10:39:45 PST

SCCA SPEED World Challenge 2008 Partial Schedule Released
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (Nov. 16, 2007) – Six classic racing venues have been confirmed for the 2008 SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge schedule.

For the third year in-a-row, the SPEED GT cars will hit the streets of Long Beach in April with the Champ Car World Series and American Le Mans Series. The following weekend, SPEED Touring Car teams are off to VIRginia International Raceway to join the Rolex Sports Car Series. The 2008 event will mark only the second time in history the series has raced at the dazzling 3.27-mile road course.

In May, both classes reunite for a showdown in the desert at Miller Motorsports Park with the ALMS.

The series returns to historical Watkins Glen International in June with the Rolex Sports Car Series, then joins with ALMS and the Indy Racing League to repeat a highly successful event at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in July.

There’s a trip north of the border in August, when SCCA SPEED World Challenge makes its 18th appearance at Mosport International Raceway, once again joining ALMS.

The remainder of the schedule will be announced shortly. Keep checking www.world-challenge.com for more information.

2008 SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Schedule

Date                     Track/Venue
April 18 – 20       Grand Prix of Long Beach (GT only)
April 25 – 27       VIRginia International Raceway (Touring Car only)
May 16 – 18        Miller Motorsports Park
June 5 – 8          Watkins Glen International
July 17 – 20        Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
August 21 – 24     Mosport

Posted On 11/16/07

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SCCA Board Election Results In

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 10:36:12 PST

SCCA Board Election Results In
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Nov. 16, 2007) – Sports Car Club of America, Inc. announced the results for the four Areas holding elections this month, with three new members joining the Board of Directors and one current Director running unopposed.

Jerry Wannarka won the Area Two election, and will take the seat held the last six years by Brian Holtz, who reached his term limit. Similarly, Lisa Noble won the Area Six election to occupy the position held by Charlie Clark for the last six years. Philip Creighton won the Area 12 election, while John Sheridan ran unopposed for a second term as Area 10 Director.

The new Board members will join the outgoing members at the Board meeting Nov. 29-Dec. 1 before taking over their posts full time beginning in 2008.

The SCCA, Inc. Board of Directors is comprised of 13 individuals voted on by the SCCA members of their particular Area. Areas are a collection of SCCA Regions nationwide.

The 2008 SCCA Board of Directors will be:

Area One: Robert E. Introne Jr.
Area Two: Jerry Wannarka
Area Three: K.P. Jones
Area Four: Larry Dent
Area Five: Bob Lybarger
Area Six: Lisa Noble
Area Seven: Michael Sauce
Area Eight: James Christian
Area Nine: R.J. Gordy
Area 10: John Sheridan
Area 11: Andy Porterfield
Area 12: Philip Creighton
Area 13: Howard Allen

Election ballots were received through November 15, and were tallied by Mize, Houser & Company.

For more information about Sports Car Club of America, please visit www.scca.com.

Posted On 11/16/07

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Three More Runoffs Races Highlight SPEED Programming on Wednesday

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 10:32:02 PST

Three More Runoffs Races Highlight SPEED Programming on Wednesday
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Nov. 13, 2007) – SCCA National Championship Runoffs programming continues on SPEED, Wednesday, Nov. 14, with Showroom Stock C, H Production and C Sports Racing.

Beginning at noon (EST), John Heinricy is in search of his 11th SCCA National Championship piloting a Chevrolet Cobalt in SSC. Starting second, Heinricy will have an uphill battle as he faces two-time SSC National Champion Joel Lipperini in a Honda Civic Si. Heinricy manages to wrangle the lead from polesitter Lipperini just past halfway, but it may all come apart on the final lap when both drivers are feeling the pressure.

A nail-biting HP race follows at 1 p.m. Starting from pole in a Triumph Spitfire, Tom Feller is in a good position to capture his fourth-consecutive HP title, but Brain Linn’s MG Midget gives Feller the battle of a lifetime. As a light sprinkle falls on Heartland Park Topeka, the pair exchange the lead with every lap. The moment of truth arrives on the final lap when Feller looks to the inside of Linn entering Turn Ten. One driver will speed to the finish to become the HP National Champion, the other will do some creative landscaping in the grass.

In stark contrast to the previous two races, defending CSR Champion Hans Peter is unstoppable on his home turf. Although the Kansan loses the lead early, it takes only a handful of corners for Peter to put his Swift 014 Viking back up front and dominate the field. The race begins at 2 p.m.

If you miss them the first time, the SSC and HP races will re-air on Thursday, Nov. 15, at 3 and 4 a.m. The CSR race replays at 3 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 16.

All 25 SCCA National Championship races receive their own one-hour show on SPEED throughout the winter. Visit the Runoffs event page at www.scca.com/Runoffs for the full schedule.

Posted On 11/13/07

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MPME, Modified to Field Supercharged Scion tC in Limited 2008 SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Program

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 10:28:06 PST

MPME, Modified to Field Supercharged Scion tC in Limited 2008 SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Program
By Marshall Pruett

OAKLAND, Calif., (November 8, 2007) - Marshall Pruett Motorsports Engineering (MPME), Modified Magazine, and Scion have partnered to build and run the first professional road racing entry for the youth-oriented Toyota brand.

“Scions are a familiar sight at import drag racing events, drifting events and car shows, and have some of the most active car clubs in America. In 2008, professional road racing is the next place you’ll see a Scion competing,” noted team owner Marshall Pruett.

With the car set to debut at the Sebring, Fla., opener in March of 2008, the MPME team will be undertaking a partial World Challenge schedule. “Frankly, my schedule and responsibilities as a journalist won’t allow me to run the car in more than a handful of races—three to four are all we have planned for now, though there will be plenty of testing away from the SPEED cameras,” noted Pruett.

The veteran road racing crew chief and engineer-turned motoring journalist for SPEED sees the debut of a new car and manufacturer to the SPEED TC series as nothing but an indicator of the series’ strength.

“In reviewing the series to choose from, World Challenge offers the most brutal, uncompromising, and spirited touring car racing on the continent. I’d rather develop a new car in the most challenging environment available, and that’s what I’ve chosen by bringing the Scion tC to SPEED TC.”

Ancaster, Ontario’s Dave Pratte, Senior Editor for Modified Magazine and winner in the Canadian Touring Car Championship, looks forward to the starting lights turning green at Sebring. “World Challenge has always been my goal as a driver. I get to write about the best and brightest in the import/tuner car world, so what better way to serve our readers than to share my pro racing exploits with them in a Scion tC. I really want to put Modified’s readers in the driver’s seat with me, so that can share in the excitement”.

Pratte is also familiar with the FWD layout of the tC and racing on the same tires used in World Challenge. “My CTCC Honda is a front-driver, and we race on Toyo’s, but I still have a lot to learn to take on heroes of mine like Peter Cunningham and Randy Pobst. We know we have a huge mountain to climb with developing the car and I have a lot to learn with the new tracks I’ll run. Even if we’re a ways off the top cars next year, expect for us to be learning all the time and enjoying ourselves with the support of Scion fans at each round.”

The tC, believed to be the first supercharged entry in the SPEED TC category, also marks the debut of the incredibly popular Scion brand to professional road racing. Pruett was equally as careful when approaching manufacturers to partner with. “In the import and tuner world, the Scion brand is king for new car sales; look at what they’ve done with their massive catalog of aftermarket parts for all of their models. With SPEED Touring Car serving as the home for import and tuner cars, the Scion tC is the best fit possible for the category.

To demonstrate the aftermarket options available for the tC from TRD, the MPME team has worked with Scion to use as many parts direct from the TRD catalog as possible. “What TRD has done with their performance parts catalog is just amazing—these aren’t just for show, or to look cool at a car show; everything they sell is developed and tested by their staff of engineers and racers. TRD stands for ‘Toyota Racing Development’ and there’s a reason for that: their parts for the street are infused with this ‘Racing Development spirit.”

From that catalog, everything from the Stoptech developed big brake kit, Quaife manufactured limited-slip differential, TRD Supercharger, quick-shift kit, and strut tower brace will be used in battle.

Transformation of the tC from a street car to full-fledged SPEED Touring Car was carried out by TC Design of Milpitas, California, the same outfit used to transform the SPEED GT Subaru Pruett ran in 2006. “Tony and Joe Colicchio have recently surpassed the two hundred and fifty mark for race cars they’ve built—beyond their ability to do incredibly skilled and well engineered work, they’ve been instrumental in turning the tC around in record time.

Also under TC Design’s guidance, the first set of professional Moton dampers for the Scion tC have been developed. “I work closely with Lex Carson of Moton USA on a regular basis, and between the two of us, we’ve come up with the same damping advantage Moton’s other SPEED Touring Car customers are used to,” said Colicchio. TC Design has also developed custom suspension for the Scion tC for the rigors of World Challenge racing that compliment the Hotchkis anti-roll bars that are installed.

The Design scheme for the car is open for voting at www.Modified.com. “We figured everything else about the Scion tC is customizable, so why not let our readers, racing fans, and Scion nuts pick from four different designs we commissioned Marvel Comics artist Jon Sibal to create. The winning scheme will be applied to the car for the 2008 season.

With TC Design building the Scion tC for SPEED TC, the use of the initials ‘TC’ will be a common sight with the program. “We’ll be putting the myth that ‘good things happen in threes’ to the test next year!” Pruett said.

Details about the car and team will soon be available at www.tctouringcar.com, as well as www.modified.com, and in Modified Magazine.

Attached image: Rendering of MPME/Modified Scion tC for SCCA SPEED World Challenge competition
Credit: Modified Magazine

Posted On 11/8/07

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JustRacing.com Improves Classified Ads System

Wed, 07 Nov 2007 10:01:06 PST

JustRacing.com Improves Classified Ads System
By Mark Dadgar, JustRacing.com Staff

JustRacing.com is pleased to announce extended runs for classified ads. All ads placed starting today will run for 30 days with two 30 day renewals available, for a total ad run of 90 days. This better serves the motorsports community by reducing the amount of work required to sell large-ticket items such as race cars.

The result of feedback from JustRacing.com users, the new extended ad runs take effect immediately for new ads. Existing ads with available renewals will pick up the extended run intervals at the ad's next renewal.

Remember that ads can be syndicated to the following organization's web sites for more coverage:

Please click here for classified ad management as well as instructions for placing ads.

Posted On 11/7/07

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Runoffs Programming Begins This Week on SPEED

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 02:13:12 PST

Runoffs Programming Begins This Week on SPEED
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (November 6, 2007) – Programming from this year’s 44th SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T starts Wednesday, November 7, on SPEED with the Sports 2000 and GT-Lite races.

A thrilling three-way battle between John Fergus, Marc Mercer and Nick Mancuso in Sports 2000 kicks things off at noon (EST). Polesitter and defending National Champion Mercer can’t put a wheel wrong when going up against Fergus, who’s in search of his fifth S2000 National Championship. Throw Runoffs rookie Mancuso into the mix and you have a recipe for a last lap dog fight.

GT-Lite is next at 1 p.m. Joe Kristensen’s Acura Integra sits on pole, but local driver Chris Bovis shares the front row in a Honda CRX. When Bovis motors away at the start, Kristensen gets locked into a battle for second with the Nissan 200SX of Peter Zekert. Once in firm control of the runner-up spot, Kristensen sets his sights on Bovis, but does he have enough laps left to catch him, or will Bovis capture his first National Championship on home turf? Set your TV to SPEED to find out.

If you miss them the first time, the races will re-air at 3 a.m. and 4 a.m. on Thursday, November 8.

All 25 SCCA National Championship races will receive their own one-hour show on SPEED throughout the winter. Visit the Runoffs event page at www.scca.com/Runoffs for the full schedule.

Attached image: Chris Bovis leads Joe Kristensen and Peter Zekert in the 2007 GT-Lite National Championship race.
Credit: Mark Weber

Posted On 11/6/07

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Volkswagen and SCCA Pro Racing to Feature Clean Diesel Power in Jetta TDI Cup

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 09:14:19 PST

Volkswagen and SCCA Pro Racing to Feature Clean Diesel Power in Jetta TDI Cup
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (November 1, 2007) – Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced at the 2007 SEMA Show that it will bring TDI clean diesel technology to select North American race tracks starting in May 2008. The Jetta TDI Cup series will be sanctioned by the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Pro Racing Ltd., and will appear at up to eight major racing venues in North America during 2008.

“The Jetta TDI Cup racing series will celebrate Volkswagen’s diesel technology and heritage in motorsports as good, clean fun,” said Stefan Jacoby, CEO, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “Not only will the young drivers gain real-life track experience in a factory-prepared race vehicle, it will allow them to develop their own mindset of today’s clean diesel technology, and foster increased awareness of its advantages in this new era of environmental sensitivity.”

The Jetta TDI Cup shifts gears from the previously announced GTI program, allowing Volkswagen to showcase the power and performance of its new clean diesel technology, available in the upcoming 2009 Jetta TDI sedan and SportWagen. With up to 30 Jetta TDI’s competing in the hands of aspiring, young drivers, this unique motorsport offering will highlight a new, exciting platform of racing that does not currently exist – a full field of clean diesel powered vehicles.

“With the Jetta TDI Cup, Volkswagen has created an amazing platform to develop young drivers and expand their knowledge about clean and quiet diesel technology,” said Bob Wildberger, president and CEO, SCCA Pro Racing, Inc. “We look forward to the series in hopes that it will attract more attention to the drivers and advantages of diesel power.”

The Jetta TDI Cup racecars will be optimized for track performance and safety. To focus on the skill of the young drivers and to ensure performance parity, proper maintenance and safety standards, all vehicles will be owned and maintained by Volkswagen. The heart of the Jetta TDI Cup racing vehicle will be the all-new, high-tech 2.0-liter four-cylinder TDI clean diesel engine rated at 170 horsepower and nearly 300 ft.-lbs. of torque in racing trim. The Jetta TDI race vehicles will be outfitted with a six-speed automatic DSG® transmission, electro-mechanical power rack-and-pinion steering system, and advanced multi-link fully independent race-tuned suspension, driver airbag supplemental restraint system, and four-wheel ABS racing brakes.

Signifying Volkswagen’s environmental commitment, the Jetta TDI Cup series will be certified as CarbonFree by Carbonfund.org. Additional program details will be available at www.vwmotorsportusa.com by mid-November 2007.

SCCA Pro Racing Ltd. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sports Car Club of America, Inc.-a 55,000-member organization dedicated to motorsports events. SCCA Pro Racing sanctions four separate professional racing series: the SPEED World Challenge Championships, SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup, Formula Russell and F2000 Championship Series. Each series holds events on high-profile race weekends and annually crowns champions. On the web at www.sccapro.com.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, Eos, and Touareg through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at www.vw.com.

Attached image: Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup car
Credit: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Posted On 11/1/07

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SPEED World Challenge Championships Celebrated in Monterey

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 10:23:03 PST

SPEED World Challenge Championships Celebrated in Monterey
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

MONTEREY, Calif. (October 24, 2007) – The latest SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Champions were honored at the year-end banquet in Monterey, Calif., following the season finale races at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

Jeff Altenburg, of Ellicott City, Md., collected his first World Challenge Championship in 2007 thanks to an impeccable record. Running with MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development MAZDA6, he kicked off the season with back-to-back wins from pole, collected a third pole at Mid-Ohio and finished every race in the top 10. Altenburg ended the year with 277 points and a total purse of $91,450.

Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., earned his second SCCA SPEED GT Championship, his first being in 2003 with Audi. This time around, at the wheel of a K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey/3R Porsche GT-3, Pobst earned three poles, two wins and finished outside the top ten only once. It all adds up to 303 points and $75,900 for Pobst.

Mazda earned its first SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Manufacturers’ Championship Presented by RACER magazine with the combined efforts of the Tri-Point Motorsports and Tindol Motorsports teams. Mazda’s seven poles, 92 laps led and five race wins allowed them to clinch the title a round early at Road Atlanta and end the season 18 points ahead of Acura.

It was SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT Manufacturers’ Championship Presented by RACER Magazine number two for Cadillac, who sealed the deal with a win from Andy Pilgrim in the final race. With three poles, 48 laps led and three race victories, Cadillac pulled out 11 points over Porsche for its second title in four years of competition.

Coming into the game with a steep learning curve, Stan Wilson, of Mount Juliet, Tenn., and the Sorted Performance team stepped up to the challenge of fielding the series’ only Dodge SRT-4 entries on a budget that was limited to say the least. Just as the team thought they’d made a breakthrough at Watkins Glen, putting three cars in the top 10, their transporter was stolen and everything, including the race cars, were gone in an instant. Wilson soldiered on, borrowing Robb Holland’s SRT-4 and continued to put in solid performances, which earned him the SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Piloti Rookie of the Year.

Wilson also collected the SCCA SPEED Touring Car Sunoco Hard Charger of the Year Award for advancing 57 positions in his No. 92 Sorted Performance Dodge SRT-4 over the course of 2007.

The SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT Piloti Rookie of the Year contest was extremely close coming into the season finale and it got even closer when the checkered flag fell. Finishing just three spots away from each other, Brian Kubinski, of Plainfield, Ill., and Jeffrey Robbins, of Southfield, Mich., were tied at 92 points apiece in the drivers’ championship. In such a scenario, the Rookie of the Year Award goes to whichever driver had the highest finishing position of the year. Kubinski’s best finish of fifth at Mosport, versus Robbins’ best finish of ninth at Lowe’s Motor Speedway, earned the driver of the No. 12 Diamond Construction/Blackdog Racing Chevrolet Corvette the crown.

Robbins did win the Sunoco Hard Charger of the Year award in SCCA SPEED GT completion. Robbins advanced 61 positions throughout the year in his No. 6 RSIG Security Dodge Viper.

Had sponsor dollars not kept the No. 29 Tecmark Autosport/GMG/BMW 325Ci parked in Ohio during the final round of the SCCA SPEED Touring Car Championship, James Sofronas, of Newport Beach, Calif., might have equaled his best-ever World Challenge points finish. Sofronas still walked away with a trophy however, the Toyo Tires Cup, created this year for those drivers who have primary occupations other than “race car driver.” With a bevy of top-10s, including runner-up finishes at Lime Rock Park and Watkins Glen, Sofronas scored 205 points, the most of all Toyo Tires Cup drivers in SCCA SPEED Touring Car.

The SCCA SPEED GT Toyo Tires Cup went to Rob Foster, of Phoenix, Ariz., who ended the season tenth in points. Foster narrowly missed a podium at Lowe’s Motor Speedway where he finished fourth in the No. 17 LTI Contracting/Foster Motorsports/Grp4Mt Dodge Viper. Foster switched to a Chevrolet Corvette at Mid-Ohio and only one race later had the car qualified in the top ten at Mosport. Foster ended the season with 136 points.

Nathan Bonneau, Team Manager of RealTime Racing, was awarded the Zimmerman Cup, given to the World Challenge crew chief who demonstrates dedication, leadership and sportsmanship, as well as a genuine passion for the series. All of these qualities were possessed by the late Jerome Zimmermann, former RealTime crew chief, for whom the trophy is named.

In recognition of the challenging year the series has faced and the hard work and comradery of all the teams in SCCA SPEED World Challenge, SCCA Pro Racing President & CEO Bob Wildberger presented the entire paddock with the Jim Cook Memorial Trophy. Traditionally the award is given to a person or entrant who has made significant contributions to the success of the series.

Voted on by the teams of SCCA SPEED World Challenge, the Crew of the Year Awards went to Tri-Point Motorsports and 3-R Racing.

Holly Connell, of 3-R Racing, was also recognized for her selfless work throughout the paddock, most notably her assistance in getting all the teams across the Canadian border twice with their papers in order.

The SCCA SPEED World Challenge finales from Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca will air Sunday, October 28th, at 3 and 4 p.m. (EDT) on SPEED.

Stay tuned to www.world-challenge.com for a 2008 schedule announcement.

Posted On 10/24/07

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Pilgrim Wins SPEED GT Season Finale, Pobst Takes Championship

Sun, 21 Oct 2007 10:19:01 PST

Pilgrim Wins SPEED GT Season Finale, Pobst Takes Championship
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

MONTEREY, Calif., (October 21, 2007) – Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., took his second win of the season and secured the second Manufacturers’ Championship for Cadillac at the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Finale, part of the Monterey Sports Car Championships at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Second place Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., took home the Drivers’ Championship, while teammate Michael Galati, of Omsted, Ohio, finished third.

Needing to finish at least second to win the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Drivers’ Championship regardless of where his competitors finished, polesitter Pobst took command of the race from the start lights, defending the lead from the Cadillacs of Pilgrim and Ron Fellows, of Mississauga, Ontario.

Before a full lap could be completed, the race went full-course yellow for five cars spinning into the gravel at Turn Four, three of which need to be removed with track safety vehicles. Following a lengthy cleanup, the race restarted on lap seven. It would be the only full-course caution of the 28-lap, 74.241-mile race.

Pobst continued to hold the lead in his No. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT-3 over the No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V of Pilgrim. As Pobst clicked off fast laps, he opened up a lead of more than two seconds by lap 15. Pilgrim responded with several fast laps of his own, including the fastest lap of the race, a 1:30.801 (88.730 mph) and whittled down Pobst’s lead. He was within striking distance by lap 20 and on lap 22, Pilgrim slid inside of Pobst entering Turn Two and took the lead. Pilgrim motored into the distance, taking his second SCCA SPEED GT win of the season and the seventh of his career, by 1.883 seconds.

“This has not historically been a fair track for us,” Pilgrim said of his Cadillac. “We’re quite good on fast tracks and quite good on street courses, but the long wheelbase does not lend the car to being very good on medium-speed courses. But, with Randy carrying so much REWARDS weight, we thought, on a historically good Porsche track, that we had a shot.

“We have to start our tire pressures very low, because of how heavy the cars are. We had to wait for the tires to come up to temps and it takes six or seven laps to do that. At the time when my tires were just getting optimal, which is the middle eight or so laps in the race, I noticed that Randy began to have a little bit of a hard time with his fronts. I radioed that to the crew and they told me to ‘keep pushing and shut up.’

“I got close enough to make a fair move and Randy gave me racing room, which is all we can ever ask for. I managed to pull away a little bit and I think at that point Randy might have settled a little bit for second—maybe he didn’t want or need to fight it out for the win today.

“When you’re racing these guys, it’s the real deal. You can’t make any mistakes and if they see it and perceive that you’re having a problem they’ll be right on you. I didn’t want to show that my rears were going in the last five laps because I figured he’d be on me. That’s how competitive we are and that’s how good this series is.

“I congratulate Randy on his Championship and the K-PAX team. We knew they were going to be the class of the field. It’s always tremendous to run with these guys and it is just tremendous to get a win today.”

Pilgrim’s win earned Cadillac the 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Manufacturers’ Championship Presented by RACER. Cadillac finished 11 points ahead of Porsche (71 to 60). It is the second Manufacturers’ Championship for Cadillac since entering the series in 2004. Chevrolet finished third with 50 points, followed by Dodge, with 24.

Riding in second with his nearest Championship competition coming into the race, Lawson Aschenbach, running seventh, Pobst was content with a runner-up finish to take his second-career SPEED World Challenge Championship.

“Andy Pilgrim really knows how to race,” Pobst said. “He races hard and he knows what he’s doing. He’s not going to take you out with some kind of a crazy maneuver.

“I’m so thrilled to have another opportunity to race in World Challenge and with a great team like K-PAX and 3R Racing and great sponsors like Team Janica and a great car like a Porsche, to have a great teammate like Mike Galati and race against quality people like Andy Pilgrim and the Cadillac team.

“We had to chase the track. Normally, we fight oversteer in a Porsche, but today we fought understeer with the little Toyos on the front. Andy was coming and I didn’t have anything for him. It didn’t make sense to really fight it. I went deep into Turn Two and he just came right up the inside. I tried to stay on the outside. It was fun.

“Today proves that you just can’t win them all. But, it is great to be able to win another Championship, especially at my age!”

Pilgrim finished second in the Drivers’ Championship, 16 points behind Pobst (303 to 287). Last year’s Champion Aschenbach finished the year third with 280 points, followed by Galati with 269 and Eric Curran with 190.

Dropping back on the start, Galati in the No. 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT-3 climbed back quickly to his grid position of third.

“I had a bad start and [James] Sofronas went by me and so did Ron Fellows,” Galati said. “I was able to get by Sofronas in Turn One and then me and Ron—we duked it out. After the restart, he was struggling with his car a little bit. I don’t think it was handling as good. Once I got by him, I started chasing these guys, but I tell you what, they were running so fast. I was trying to catch up and not burn up the tires. They opened up the gap and I could do nothing.

“I’m happy for Randy that he won the Championship today and for K-PAX that we both finished on the podium today. Congratulations to Andy, who drove a great race, and to the Caddies.”

Michael McCann, of North Canton, Ohio, finished a season-best fourth in his No. 82 McCann Plastics/K&N Filters Dodge Viper. McCann also earned the B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race with his pass on Aschenbach’s No. 1 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V for fifth on lap 24.

Newly crowned SCCA SPEED Touring Car Champion Jeff Altenburg, of Ellicott City, Md., completed the top five in the No. 13 Kicker/Woodhouse Auto Family Dodge Viper.

Championship hopeful Aschenbach ended the race in sixth, followed by teammate Ron Fellows, Scotty B. White (Dodge Viper), Paul Bonaccorsi (Pontiac GTO) and Ritch Marziale (Dodge Viper).

Bonacorssi, of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., earned the Sunoco Hard Charger for advancing 15 positions during the race in the No. 21 Autosport Development Pontiac GTO.

Cindi Lux, of Aloha, Ore., in the No. 2 Dodge/MOMO/Corsa/Mintex Dodge Viper won the Piloti Rookie of The Race by finishing 11th.

Sonny Whelen, of Old Saybrook, Conn., was the Toyo Tires Cup Award winner, finishing 13th in the No. 31 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette.

Today’s race will be broadcast on SPEED, Sunday October 28th at 4:00 p.m. (EDT). For results, photos and news visit www.world-challenge.com

Posted On 10/21/07

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Cunningham Gets Monterey Win, Altenburg Captures First SPEED TC Championship

Sun, 21 Oct 2007 05:36:16 PST

Cunningham Gets Monterey Win, Altenburg Captures First SPEED TC Championship
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

MONTEREY, Calif., (October 21, 2007) – In a Championship-deciding race packed with action, Peter Cunningham, of Grafton, Wis., captured the win at the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Finale, part of the Monterey Sports Car Championships at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Acura swept the podium with Kuno Wittmer, of Montreal, Ontario, finishing second and Brandon Davis, of Denver, Colo., finishing third. Jeff Altenburg, of Ellicott City, Md., won his first World Challenge Drivers’ Championship, finishing fourth.

In one of the most exciting races of the season, Cunningham crossed the finish line behind teammate Pierre Kleinubing, of Coconut Creek, Fla., but still collected his 31st World Challenge victory.

Ian Baas, of Noblesville, Ind., got a great start from third on the grid in his No. 18 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Livermore Audi A4 and led the field through Turns One and Two, but was quickly re-passed by polesitter Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., and Cunningham.

As Pobst continued to lead the field through the first lap at the 11-turn, 2.238-mile road course, his teammate and point leader Altenburg hit trouble on the crowded opening lap, clipping a curb in Turn Six, causing a flat tire. As the race went full-course yellow for the No. 92 Sorted Performance Dodge SRT-4 of Stan Wilson stuck in Turn Six, Altenburg hit the pits. He re-entered in 18th.

Pobst maintained the lead on the lap four restart in his No. 73 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development MAZDA6, but the full-course yellow came out again, only two laps later for the No. 95 Mazda North America/Tindol MAZDA6 of Michael Galati who was deep in the gravel at Turn Six.

On the lap nine restart, Pobst again defended his lead, as the No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura TSX of Kleinubing made his way past Cunningham for second. Kleinubing immediately put the pressure on Pobst for the lead while Altenburg charged through the field, needing to finish fourth or higher while Pobst led, in order to claim the Championship.

The full-course yellow came out for the third and final time on lap 14 when the No. 96 Tindol Motorsports/Pesco Inc. MAZDA6 of Charlie Putman was caught out in the gravel at Turn Eight. By this time Altenburg had moved up sixth.

On the lap 16 restart, Kleinubing continued to fill Pobst’s mirrors and Altenburg jumped to fifth, needing one more spot to earn the Championship should Pobst win the race. As the laps ticked by, the battling Pobst and Kleinubing began to pull away from the rest of the field.

On lap 21 of the 25-lap, 53.712-mile race, Kleinubing went to the outside of Pobst into Turn Two, but ran wide, allowing Pobst to hold the lead. The next time around, Kleinubing again went to the outside. This time, Kleinubing’s left front hit Pobst’s right rear, spinning the Mazda across the Acura’s nose. Several cars including Altenburg sped by as Pobst attempted to rejoin the field. Altenburg now had the Championship in hand, running fourth, while Pobst was shown in seventh.

Race officials quickly ordered a black flag for Kleinubing’s contact with Pobst and requested the car in pit lane. Kleinubing did not answer the call with one lap to go and was still the lead car when the checkered flag waved, with Cunningham close behind.

With a 30-second penalty assessed to Kleinubing, Cunningham was declared the winner, who crossed the finish line only 0.819-second ahead of Wittmer.

“I enjoyed the race today,” Cunningham said. “It seemed like Ian Baas had a mechanical problem coming out of Turn Two and we passed him between Two and Three. He did have the lead going into two.

“It appeared that Randy [Pobst] had a very good car and was pulling me. It also appeared that I was holding up Pierre [Kleinubing] a little bit. Certainly, Pierre had a job to do and put the bit between his teeth. On a restart, he got a little jump on me and we went side-by-side into Turn Two and rather than argue with him like we had before, I tried to hand it to him on a platter and fall in behind him.

“For a time, under green, Pierre was really chasing down Randy hard and the two of them were having a very good race. It seemed like my car was getting better and better as the race wore on and I might have had a little more for them at the end and certainly could pounce on them if they got into each other.

“I didn’t get the chance to get by Pierre, but after Randy spun due to the contact, I was in second and that’s where I thought I had finished.”

Driving the car that won this race last year, Wittmer finally captured a long overdue podium in his No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura RSX. The finish pushed Wittmer to third in the Championship standings.

“I had a great car and we were communicating a lot on the radio about the positions in the Championship,” Wittmer said. “At one point, they told me I was fourth in the Championship, but I was also fourth in the race and the podium was right there.

“I’m very pleased with how things turned out and I’m very pleased with second place. The team and Acura have done a great job all year and to finish it off with second place is a great way to end the season.”

After falling behind Altenburg briefly in the closing laps, Davis reclaimed the third spot on the final lap, earning his top-three of the season and giving Acura a podium sweep in his No. 43 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/Real Time Racing Acura TSX.

Following Pobst’s clash with Kleinubing, Altenburg’s fourth-place finish in the No. 72 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development MAZDA6 was enough to capture his first ever SPEED World Challenge Championship. Crossing the line in sixth, Pobst finished the Championship runner-up, 18 points behind Altenburg.

“I knew I had a job to do obviously, Randy was on the pole and I was in eighth,” Altenburg said. “If Randy stayed there, I knew I needed to be fourth. The start was a little hectic and going into Turn Six, we were going two-by-two and I dropped a wheel on the curb and I figured that I was out. I congratulated Randy over the radio and I thought I was going to park it, because I thought the suspension was broken. I came in the pits and the team put a new tire on it and I went out and it felt remarkably good.

“It was tough coming through the field but I pretty much settled in, in fifth place. Believe me, I’ve been doing all the calculations in my head and I knew that if I was fifth and Randy won that we’d be tied and he’d win the tiebreaker. I was driving my heart out and the car was working amazingly well for what had happened to it.

“It feels incredible to win the Championship and it feels like it was a long time coming. I feel a little vindicated in justifying Mazda’s faith in me over the years. Believe me, I’m very, very proud. With this series, with RealTime and Bimmerworld and STaSIS and all the teams that have been in this series over the years—it’s top notch, and to come out on top of this series means a whole lot to me, because of the people we’re competing against.”

Behind Altenburg and Pobst, Wittmer ends the season third in the SCCA SPEED Touring Car Drivers’ Championship with 203 points, followed by teammates Kleinubing and Cunningham, with 225 and 220 points, respectively.

Returning to World Challenge competition for the first time since Sebring, Dino Crescentini, of Malibu, Calif., finished fifth in his No. 74 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development MAZDA6, just ahead of Pobst.

Adam Pecorari (Audi A4) and Nick Esayian (Acura TSX) finished seventh and eighth, respectively. Esayian was the highest-placing Toyo Tires Cup driver, earning the Toyo Tires Cup Award.

Finishing ninth, Andrie Hartanto, of San Francisco, Calif., earned the Piloti Rookie of the Race Award as the highest-finishing rookie in his No. 88 PRIMA Honda Civic.

Matt Richmond, of Mooresville, N.C., completed the top ten and earned B&M Holeshot Award for advancing seven positions on the start, as well as the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing 11 positions during the race in the No. 37 BimmerWorld BMW 325i.

Mazda clinched the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Manufacturers’ Championship Presented by RACER a round early at Road Atlanta. The automaker wins its first-ever World Challenge Championship by 18 points ahead of Acura. Audi finishes third with 42 points, followed by BMW with 31 points.

The SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car finale will air on SPEED, Sunday, October 28 at 3:00 p.m. (EDT). Results, photos and news are available at www.world-challenge.com

Results from Sunday 25-lap, 55.95-mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Finale, part of the Monterey Sports Car Championships at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps and reason out (if any).

1. (2), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 25.
2. (6), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 25, -1.239.
3. (5), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 25, -4.222.
4. (8), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., MAZDA6, 25, -8.073.
5. (12), Dino Crescentini, Malibu, Calif., MAZDA6, 25, -8.759.
6. (1), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., MAZDA6, 25, -10.353.
7. (13), Adam Pecorari, Aston, Pa., Audi A4, 25, -14.719.
8. (9), Nick Esayian(T), Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 25, -15.282.
9. (16), Andrie Hartanto(R), San Francisco, Calif., Honda Civic, 25, -16.667.
10. (22), Matt Richmond, Mooresville, N.C., BMW 325i, 25, -24.329.
11. (3), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 25, -28.004.
12. (18), Patrick Lindsey(R), Santa Barbara, Calif., MAZDA6, 25, -29.080.
13. (4), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 25, -39.580.
14. (15), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., MAZDA6, 25, -1:09.870.
15. (23), Carl Hober(R), Cape May, N.J., Acura TSX, 25, -1:20.006.
16. (11), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, MAZDA6, 24, -1 lap.
17. (20), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 24, -1 lap.
18. (21), E. Glenn Bocchino(R), Delray Beach, Fla., MAZDA6, 24, -42.238.
19. (19), Christian Miller, Newark, Calif., VW Jetta, 24, -52.408.
20. (17), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., MAZDA6, 24, -1 lap.
21. (7), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 0, Mech.
22. (14), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 0, Crash.
23. (10), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 0, Crash.

Time of race: 50 minutes, 11.379 seconds.
Average speed: 66.886 mph
Margin of victory: .819 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-23, #73 Randy Pobst; laps 24-25, #42 Peter Cunningham
Fastest race lap: #73 Randy Pobst, 1:36.921 (83.127 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #73 Randy Pobst, 1:35.857 (84.050 mph)
B&M Holeshot Award: #37 Matt Richmond advances seven positions at the start
Sunoco Hard Charger Award: #37 Matt Richmond advances 11 positions in the race.
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #88 Andrie Hartanto
Toyo Tires Cup: #34 Nick Esayian
Note: #1 penalized 30 seconds, race points and purse for contact with the #73

SCCA SPEED Touring Car Drivers' Championship
Ps., Driver, Car, Points (Wins)
1, Jeff Altenburg, MAZDA6, 277 (2)
2, Randy Pobst, MAZDA6, 259 (2)
3, Kuno Wittmer, Acura RSX, 230
4, Pierre Kleinubing, Acura TSX, 225 (2)
5, Peter Cunningham, Acura TSX, 220 (2)
6, Chip Herr, Audi A4, 210 (1)
7, James Sofronas, BMW 325i, 205
8, Michael Galati, MAZDA6, 174 (1)
9, Charles Espenlaub, MAZDA6, 161
10, Brandon Davis, Acura TSX, 153

SCCA SPEED Touring Car Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER
Ps., Manufacturer, Points (Wins)
1, Mazda, 69 (5)
2, Acura, 51 (2)
2, Audi, 42 (2)
4, BMW, 31 (1)

Attached image: No. 42 Cunningham leads No. 44 Wittmer to an Acura podium sweep at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.
Credit: Mark Weber

Posted On 10/21/07

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Saini's Dreams Becoming a Reality

Sat, 20 Oct 2007 04:37:48 PST

Saini's Dreams Becoming a Reality
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

MONTEREY, Calif. (October 18, 2007) – A new face will be exploring the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge paddock at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca this weekend. SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Champion Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, will get his first glimpse at his next step on the Mazda ladder program.

In his second year of competition with MX-5 Cup, Saini dominated the 2007 season, winning five of eight races and clinching the Championship a round early. His prize was more than just a trophy, it was a dream come true. As part of the Mazda ladder program, Saini earned a spot with a Mazda team in the 2008 SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship.

“Just running in the MX-5 Cup was a dream come true,” Saini said. “So, winning the Championship and being given such an incredible opportunity by Mazda is just amazing. The ladder program that Mazda has established is the most important driver development program that's ever been implemented, and I'm proud to be associated with such a company. I look forward to fighting for Rookie of the Year while helping Mazda repeat the Manufacturers’ Championship in SCCA SPEED Touring Car.”

After years of involvement with SCCA, Saini now finds himself at the top of the SCCA ladder as well. The Cleveland native credits SCCA with developing his racing skills and opening the doors to a career as a professional race car driver.

“Racing has always been a dream for me and running SCCA Solo events was all that I could afford to do as a young racer. In addition to teaching car control, it taught me how to perform under pressure and I was able to win two Solo National championships (B-Stock in 2003, and A-Stock in 2004).

“I always knew I wanted to road race, but that success prompted me to try my hand at it. I also knew that I wanted to drive a Mazda because of the unbelievable support they have for motorsports. I went straight into Pro racing with the Miata Cup, and was in the top five by my fourth race. In 2003, I set a five-year goal to be in SCCA SPEED World Challenge, and without the SCCA, Mazda and the support of my sponsors along the way I never could have achieved this goal.”

As the first MX-5 Cup ladder graduate, Saini has been invited by Mazda to tour the paddock at the SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car finale at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca this weekend. There, he’ll get a chance to talk with both the Tri-Point and Tindol teams and decide which crew he’ll want supporting him in his rookie World Challenge season.

“It’s so amazing to be here at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca knowing I’ll be racing in World Challenge next year. I’m looking forward to meeting with the Mazda teams and making plans for the 2008 season.”

There couldn’t be a better time to hang out in the Mazda pits, as the automaker just captured its first World Challenge Manufacturers’ Championship Presented by RACER Magazine, and Tri-Point drivers Jeff Altenburg and Randy Pobst run one-two in the Drivers’ Championship.

Round Ten of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship kicks off with two rounds of practice on Friday. Qualifying is set for Saturday at 9:25 a.m. (PDT) and the race will go green on Sunday at 12:00 p.m. (PDT). You can follow the action with living timing and lap notes at www.world-challenge.com. The race will air on SPEED, Sunday, October 28th at 3:00 p.m. (EDT) on SPEED.

You can watch Saini in all eight rounds of the 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup when they air this winter on SPEED. Keep checking www.mx-5cup.com for air dates and times.

Attached image: MX-5 Cup Champion Jason Saini was presented with a suit and helmet by Mazda to recognize his ascent on the Mazda ladder program.
Credit: Juha Lievonen

Posted On 10/20/07

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Pobst Goes Two-For-Two With SPEED GT Pole in Monterey

Sat, 20 Oct 2007 04:34:17 PST

Pobst Goes Two-For-Two With SPEED GT Pole in Monterey
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

MONTEREY, Calif. (October 20, 2007) – Current Championship leader Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., captured the pole for Round Ten of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Championship minutes after collecting the SCCA SPEED Touring Car Pole at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., will start second.

Preventing a Cadillac clinch of the SCCA SPEED GT Manufacturers’ Championship Presented by RACER and giving himself another five points in his Drivers’ Championship lead, Pobst recovered from a first lap slide to put the No. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT-3 on pole. Just after getting out of his pole-winning Mazda SCCA SPEED Touring Car, Pobst collected his 22nd-career pole with a lap of 1:29.707 (89.812 mph) around the 11-turn, 2.238-mile road course. He now needs to finish third or better to win the 2007 Drivers’ Championship, regardless of what his rivals do.

“The Cadillacs are right there,” Pobst said. “When you’ve been racing as long as I have you learn that sometimes you finish on the good end of the thousandths and sometimes you finish on the bad end of the thousandths. That’s just the game and I think we got lucky.

“I hate to come right out and say this, but I blew my first lap in the Porsche. I got off to a good start, but I noticed that the handling was quite a bit different than practice, which surprised me, because in Touring Car, the Mazda was very similar. The Porsche was not terribly happy that first lap, but the first lap is when you have the most grip. I had real trouble getting around those first couple of corners. I was going down to my brake point in Turn Five and I got so far to the right that I put two wheels on the curb. I think that curb was a bit wet or maybe it was the roughness and being on the edge, but I got the car sideways and screwed up the corner. I came out for my second lap, knowing that it would have to be the lap. The handling was getting better at the same time, so that second lap around, I put in a clean lap and it was just barely enough. It was luck on my part.”

Pilgrim is indeed, “right there,” only 0.057-second behind Pobst. Pilgrim had hoped to win the pole and clinch the Manufacturers’ Championship for Cadillac, but a 1:29.764 (89.755 mph) put the No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V second on the grid.

The second row will be near-identical to the first, with Pobst’s teammate, Michael Galati, of Olmsted, Ohio, starting third in the No. 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3, after entering a 1:30.121 (89.399 mph). Pilgrim’s teammate, Ron Fellows, of Mississaugo, Ont., starts fourth in the No. 16 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V, turning a 1:30.209 (89. 312 mph).

James Sofronas, of Newport Beach, Calif., completed the top five in his No. 14 GMG/Tolar Manufacturing Porsche 911 GT-3, with a time of 1:30.516 (89.009 mph).

Although there are three Porsches in the top five, to Cadillac’s two, if a Cadillac finishes in the top six, the automaker will capture its second SCCA SPEED GT Manufacturers’ Championship.

Jeff Altenburg (Dodge Viper), Michael McCann (Dodge Viper), Lawson Aschenbach (Cadillac CTS-V), Mike Davis (Ford Mustang Cobra) and Tomy Drissi (Chevrolet Corvette) completed the top ten.

The SCCA SPEED GT finale will launch from a standing start tomorrow at 2:55 p.m. (PDT). Live timing and lap notes are available at www.world-challenge.com. The race will air on SPEED, Sunday, October 28, at 4:00 p.m. (EDT).

Starting lineup for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Ten race, part of the Monterey Sports Car Championships at Mazda Raceway Laguna Raceway, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:29.707, 89.812.
2, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:29.764, 89.755.
3, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:30.121, 89.399.
4, (16), Ron Fellows, Mississauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 1:30.209, 89.312.
5, (14), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:30.516, 89.009.
6, (13), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Dodge Viper, 1:30.644, 88.884.
7, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 1:30.707, 88.822.
8, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:30.720, 88.809.
9, (11), Mike Davis, Huntington Beach, Calif., Ford Mustang Cobra, 1:30.897, 88.636.
10, (87), Tomy Drissi, Hollywood, Calif., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:31.067, 88.471.
11, (28), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:31.178, 88.363.
12, (3), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 1:31.188, 88.353.
13, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 1:31.228, 88.315.
14, (17), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:31.345, 88.201.
15, (09), Gunter Schaldach(R), Aspen, Colo., Dodge Viper Comp Coupe, 1:31.495, 88.057.
16, (2), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 1:31.535, 88.018.
17, (31), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:31.541, 88.013.
18, (56), Ritch Marziale, Tempe, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:31.574, 87.981.
19, (10), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Saleen SR, 1:31.682, 87.877.
20, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:31.772, 87.791.
21, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:31.900, 87.669.
22, (18), Jason Foster, Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:32.442, 87.155.
23, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 1:32.692, 86.920.
24, (21), Paul Bonaccorsi, Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., Pontiac GTO, 1:32.732, 86.882.
25, (7), Brett Pearson, Orlando, Fla., Dodge Viper, 1:32.810, 86.809.
26, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 1:33.956, 85.750.
27, (29), Eric Olberz(R), La Canada Flintridge, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:34.470, 85.284.
28, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, no time.
29, (02), Steve Valentinetti(R), Seatte, Wash., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:33.332, 86.324.
30, (12), Nick Parker(R), Seattle, Wash., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:36.055, 83.877.

Attached image: Randy Pobst added five points to his SPEED GT Championship lead with a pole in Monterey.
Credit: Mark Weber

Posted On 10/20/07

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Pobst Edges Cunningham for Monterey SPEED Touring Car Pol

Sat, 20 Oct 2007 04:31:22 PST

Pobst Edges Cunningham for Monterey SPEED Touring Car Pol
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

MONTEREY, Calif. (Oct. 20, 2007) – Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., edged Peter Cunningham, of Grafton, Wis., for the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car pole for Sunday’s Round 10 race at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca and edged closer to his teammate for the Drivers’ Championship.

Driving the No. 73 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development MAZDA6, Pobst turned a 1:35.857 (84.050 mph) on his first flying lap—not a record, but 0.025-second faster than Cunningham’s 1:35.882 (84.028 mph) in the No. 42 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura TSX. It was Pobst’s third SPEED Touring Car pole of the season, and pulled him within 14 points of Championship leader, teammate Jeff Altenburg, going into Sunday’s finale.

“I think that Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca is a MAZDA6 track,” Pobst said. “You might recall this is the track where the MAZDA6 won its first race with Jeff Altenburg a couple years ago. But, the SCCA officials adjusted our car for the last several races and it worked. It slowed us down and the car didn’t handle as well anymore. We’ve been trying to figure that out and look for a way to compensate. I know that Craig Nagler and the Tri-Point team were in the shop all week working on the cars and what they did obviously worked. I want to specifically thank Chris Degioanni my car chief, because he predicted the track, he figured it out.

“I’m really pleased to get pole while Mazda is associated with the Humane Society of the United States. I’m carrying Mooch the cat on my car from the MUTTS comic strip. We visited the SPCA across the street yesterday and they named a cat after me and a dog after Jeff. I think the spirit of Mooch was probably with me.”

For Cunningham, the winningest driver in series’ history, it was his best qualifying effort of the year.

Ian Baas, of Noblesville, Ind., will start third after setting a fast time of 1:36.081 (83.854 mph) in his No. 18 STASIS/Team Janica/Livermore Audi A4.

Pierre Kleinubing, of Coconut Creek, Fla., ran more laps than anyone in the session (11) and will start fourth based on his lap of 1:36.093 (83.843 mph) in the No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura TSX. Kleinubing is winless in 2007, and if he does not win on Sunday, it will be his first winless season since joining the Championship in 1997.

Brandon Davis, of Denver, Colo., made it three Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura TSXs in the top five with a fast lap of 1:36.253 (83.704 mph).

Kuno Wittmer (Acura RSX), Chip Herr (Audi A4), Altenburg (MAZDA6), Nick Esayian (Acura TSX) and Seth Thomas (BMW 325i).

Altenburg needs to finish fourth or better to clinch his first Drivers’ Championship, regardless of what the competition does. Mazda clinched the Manufacturers’ Championship Presented by RACER at the most recent round at Road Atlanta.

Sunday’s race makes its standing start at 12 noon (Pacific). Tune in to world-challenge.com to follow live timing and race notes via the SCCA Pit Board. Sunday’s race will be broadcast Saturday, Oct. 28 at 3 p.m. (Eastern) on SPEED.

Starting lineup for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round 10 race, part of the Monterey Sports Car Championships at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., MAZDA6, 1:35.857, 84.050.
2, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 1:35.882, 84.028.
3, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 1:36.081, 83.854.
4, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 1:36.093, 83.843.
5, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 1:36.253, 83.704.
6, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 1:36.269, 83.690.
7, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 1:36.451, 83.532.
8, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., MAZDA6, 1:36.488, 83.500.
9, (34), Nick Esayian(T), Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 1:36.741, 83.282.
10, (38), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 1:36.895, 83.149.
11, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, MAZDA6, 1:36.905, 83.141.
12, (74), Dino Crescentini, Malibu, Calif., MAZDA6, 1:36.912, 83.135.
13, (19), Adam Pecorari, Aston, Pa., Audi A4, 1:36.978, 83.078.
14, (36), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 1:37.183, 82.903.
15, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., MAZDA6, 1:37.329, 82.779.
16, (88), Andrie Hartanto(R), San Francisco, Calif., Honda Civic, 1:37.745, 82.426.
17, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., MAZDA6, 1:37.803, 82.377.
18, (57), Patrick Lindsey(R), Santa Barbara, Calif., MAZDA6, 1:38.136, 82.098.
19, (25), Christian Miller, Newark, Calif., VW Jetta, 1:38.174, 82.066.
20, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 1:38.237, 82.014.
21, (94), E. Glenn Bocchino(R), Delray Beach, Fla., MAZDA6, 1:38.274, 81.983.
22, (37), Matt Richmond, Mooresville, N.C., BMW 325i, 1:38.620, 81.695.
23, (49), Carl Hober(R), Cape May, N.J., Acura TSX, 1:43.888, 77.552.

Attached image: Randy Pobst puts a Mazda on pole at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.
Credit: Mark Weber

Posted On 10/20/07

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SCCA Pro Racing and SPEED Renew Relationship for 2008

Sat, 20 Oct 2007 03:52:12 PST

SCCA Pro Racing and SPEED Renew Relationship for 2008
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

MONTEREY, Calif. (Oct. 20, 2007) – SCCA Pro Racing and SPEED announced today that the SCCA SPEED World Challenge Championships will again be broadcast on SPEED in 2008, marking the 13th year of its partnership.

For the 10th-straight year, each SCCA SPEED Touring Car and SCCA SPEED GT race will feature one-hour broadcasts on a tape-delayed basis on the network, generating 20 hours of unique programming.

“We are very pleased to continue our partnership with SPEED Channel,” SCCA Pro Racing President & CEO Robert Wildberger said. “This series has experienced tremendous growth in the last 13 years and much of that is due to SPEED’s involvement. We have a lot of items in the works to enhance the programs, including a larger broadcast presence on the Web.”

“It gives us great pleasure to continue the longest-running relationship SPEED has with any sanctioning body,” SPEED Senior VP of Production and Network Operations and Executive Producer Rick Miner said. “SCCA Pro Racing provided the first racing event on SPEED in February of 1996 and continues to be a pillar of our motorsports programming.”

The 2008 season will be the 19th year of SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge competition. In 1999, SCCA Pro Racing and SPEED Channel formed a partnership with the series, naming SPEED as the title sponsor in addition to its broadcast partner. Split into two, separate race series—SCCA SPEED GT and SCCA SPEED Touring Car—the World Challenge Championships feature the cars people drive the way they wish they could drive them. SCCA SPEED World Challenge—this is how racing should be.

SPEED is the nation's first and foremost cable television network dedicated to motor sports and the passion for everything automotive. From racing to restoration, from mainstream to the ultimate extremes, SPEED delivers quality programming from the track to the garage. Now available in more than 78 million homes in North America, SPEED is among the fastest-growing sports cable networks in the country, the home to NASCAR on SPEED and an industry leader in interactive TV, video on demand, mobile initiatives and broadband services.

For additional information about SCCA SPEED World Challenge, visit www.world-challenge.com. For additional information about SPEED, visit www.speedtv.com. For additional information about SCCA Pro Racing, visit www.sccapro.com.

Posted On 10/20/07

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Pilgrim Fastest in Practice for SCCA SPEED GT Finale

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 04:28:17 PST

Pilgrim Fastest in Practice for SCCA SPEED GT Finale
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

MONTEREY, Calif. (October 19, 2007) – Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., improved on his morning practice time to set the fastest practice lap of the day for Round Ten of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship, part of the Monterey Sports Car Championships. Michael McCann, of North Canton, Ohio, and Michael Galati, of Olmstead, Ohio, were second and third quickest, respectively, at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

While most of the SCCA SPEED Touring Cars were unable to improve on their morning practice times in the session previous to the SCCA SPEED GT cars, the track conditions wound up being perfect for Pilgrim to improve on his. The No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V pilot set the fastest lap of the day, a 1:29.373 (90.148 mph), in the 20-minute afternoon session.

“The sun went in and the temperature dropped, which is exactly what we needed,” Pilgrim said. “The temperature drop is good for the engine and good for the tires.

“I’m pretty much a real long shot now for the Drivers’ Championship after Atlanta, but if we can get the one point for pole we’d wrap up the Manufacturers’ Championship. Obviously my focus is to get the pole if I can.”

McCann posted the second-fastest time of the day in his No. 82 McCann Plastics/K&N Filters Dodger Viper, entering a 1:29.698 (89.821 mph) in the afternoon session.

Galati just outpaced teammate Randy Pobst, turning a 1:29.970 (89.549 mph) in the No. 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT-3. Point leader Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., who was fastest in the morning session, was unable to improve on his time in the afternoon and ended the day fourth in his No. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT-3, with a time of 1:30.118 (89.402 mph).

Defending SCCA SPEED GT Champion Lawson Aschenbach, of West Palm Beach, Fla., snuck into the top five on his final hot lap. The No. 1 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V driver stopped the clocks with a 1:30.126 (89.394 mph).

Jeff Courtney (Dodge Viper), Ron Fellows (Cadillac CTS-V), Tomy Drissi (Chevrolet Corvette), James Sofronas (Porsche 911 GT3) and Gunter Schaldach (Dodge Viper) competed the top ten.

Qualifying for the SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT Championship finale will take place Saturday at 9:50 a.m. (PDT). Live timing and lap notes are available at www.world-challenge.com. The race will go green Sunday at 2:55 p.m. (PDT).

Combined practice results for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Ten race, part of the Monterey Sports Car Championships at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:29.373, 90.148.
2, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 1:29.698, 89.821.
3, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:29.970, 89.549.
4, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:30.118, 89.402.
5, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:30.126, 89.394.
6, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 1:30.486, 89.039.
7, (16), Ron Fellows, Mississauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 1:30.487, 89.038.
8, (87), Tomy Drissi, Hollywood, Calif., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:30.516, 89.009.
9, (14), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:30.610, 88.917.
10, (09), Gunter Schaldach(R), Aspen, Colo., Dodge Viper Comp Coupe, 1:30.707, 88.822.
11, (3), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 1:30.842, 88.690.
12, (13), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Dodge Viper, 1:30.975, 88.560.
13, (2), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 1:31.181, 88.360.
14, (28), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:31.231, 88.312.
15, (56), Ritch Marziale, Tempe, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:31.305, 88.240.
16, (17), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:31.437, 88.113.
17, (11), Mike Davis, Huntington Beach, Calif., Ford Mustang Cobra, 1:31.552, 88.002.
18, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:31.647, 87.911.
19, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 1:31.757, 87.805.
20, (31), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:32.066, 87.511.
21, (10), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Saleen SR, 1:32.511, 87.090.
22, (7), Brett Pearson, Orlando, Fla., Dodge Viper, 1:32.533, 87.069.
23, (21), Paul Bonaccorsi, Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., Pontiac GTO, 1:32.703, 86.909.
24, (29), Eric Olberz(R), La Canada Flintridge, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:33.287, 86.365.
25, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:33.370, 86.289.
26, (02), Steve Valentinetti(R), Seatte, Wash., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:33.406, 86.255.
27, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 1:33.421, 86.241.
28, (18), Jason Foster, Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:34.100, 85.619.
29, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 1:34.293, 85.444.
30, (12), Nick Parker(R), Seattle, Wash., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:35.716, 84.174.

Attached image: The No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V
Credit: Mark Weber

Posted On 10/19/07

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Herr's Morning Time Tops SPEED TC Practice in Monterey

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 04:25:30 PST

Herr's Morning Time Tops SPEED TC Practice in Monterey
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

MONTEREY, Calif. (October 19, 2007) – Chip Herr, of Lititz, Pa., topped the time sheets Friday in practice for the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship season finale at the Monterey Sports Car Championships. Peter Cunningham, of Grafton, Wis., and Pierre Kleinubing, of Coconut Creek, Fla., led the afternoon session and were second and third fastest overall, at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

Herr hit the top of the timing monitors early and continued to whittle down his time throughout the 20-minute morning practice session. By the end, a 1:35.929 was the (83.987 mph) was good enough to keep the No. 17 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Nalley Audi A4 on top. In the afternoon session, Herr could only manage the ninth-best time, but his morning lap held on to the top spot of the combined time sheets.

“We made some really great changes,” Herr said after the morning session. “We put a stiffer bar on the car that we’ve never used before. Yesterday, I tested it and today I think we proved it’s going to work for qualifying at least.

“We haven’t historically done well here. I finished fifth here last year and I qualified 10th. I don’t know if I’ll be able to pass a bunch of cars again on the start like I did last year. There’s a lot of people here battling for Championships so it’s going to be tough. I don’t want to be in the midst of it, but I’m going to be there.”

Four-time World Challenge Champion Cunningham ended the day second fastest in his No. 42 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura TSX, although he topped the evening session. The winningest driver in series history entered a time of 1:36.238 (83.717 mph). Teammate Kleinubing in the No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura TSX completed the top three with a time of 1:36.370 (83.602 mph).

Denver’s Brandon Davis made it three Acura TSXs in-a-row, running the fourth-quickest time of the day in the morning with a 1:36.478 (83.509 mph) in his No. 43 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura. Currently second in the Drivers’ Championship, Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., was fifth on the time sheets, turning a 1:36.480 (83.507 mph) in his No. 73 MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development MAZDA6.

Dino Crescentini (MAZDA6), Kuno Wittmer (Acura RSX), point leader Jeff Altenburg (MAZDA6), Ian Baas (Audi A4) and Nick Esayian (Acura TSX) completed the top 10.

Qualifying for Sunday’s season finale is scheduled for Saturday morning at 9:25 a.m. (Pacific). Live timing and lap notes are available at www.world-challenge.com.

Combined practice times for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round 10 race, part of the Monterey Sports Car Championships at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 1:35.929, 83.987.
2, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 1:36.238, 83.717.
3, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 1:36.370, 83.602.
4, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 1:36.478, 83.509.
5, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., MAZDA6, 1:36.480, 83.507.
6, (74), Dino Crescentini, Malibu, Calif., MAZDA6, 1:36.791, 83.239.
7, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 1:36.795, 83.235.
8, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., MAZDA6, 1:36.842, 83.195.
9, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 1:36.985, 83.072.
10, (34), Nick Esayian(T), Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 1:37.126, 82.952.
11, (38), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 1:37.129, 82.949.
12, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, MAZDA6, 1:37.294, 82.808.
13, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., MAZDA6, 1:37.312, 82.793.
14, (36), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 1:37.811, 82.371.
15, (19), Adam Pecorari, Aston, Pa., Audi A4, 1:37.915, 82.283.
16, (57), Patrick Lindsey(R), Santa Barbara, Calif., MAZDA6, 1:38.287, 81.972.
17, (94), E. Glenn Bocchino(R), Delray Beach, Fla., MAZDA6, 1:38.386, 81.889.
18, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., MAZDA6, 1:38.600, 81.712.
19, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 1:38.606, 81.707.
20, (25), Christian Miller, Newark, Calif., VW Jetta, 1:38.692, 81.635.
21, (88), Andrie Hartanto(R), San Francisco, Calif., Honda Civic, 1:38.725, 81.608.
22, (37), Matt Richmond, Mooresville, N.C., BMW 325i, 1:38.917, 81.450.
23, (49), Carl Hober(R), Cape May, N.J., Acura TSX, 1:43.146, 78.110.

Attached: Image of Chip Herr’s Audi A4 at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Image by Mark Weber.

Posted On 10/19/07

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Pobst Quickest in SPEED GT Practice at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 04:21:49 PST

Pobst Quickest in SPEED GT Practice at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

MONTEREY, Calif. (October 19, 2007) – Current Drivers’ Championship point leader Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., paced morning practice at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca for Round Ten of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship, part of the Monterey Sports Car Championships. His teammate, Michael Galati, of Olmstead, Ohio, was second, followed by Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla.

With his eyes firmly set on claiming the 2007 SCCA SPEED GT Drivers’ Championship, Pobst laid down the fastest practice time of the 20-minute morning session, despite battling a case of food poisoning. Driving the No. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT-3, Pobst landed at the top of the time sheets with a 1:30.118 (89.402 mph)

“What I keep hearing around the paddock is that Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca is a Porsche track,” Pobst said. “I’m not exactly convinced of that, but I hope they’re right. We’ve made steady progress on the Porsche at K-PAX and I think we’re in a good position at the moment. I don’t feel like I’m taking risks to make the car go fast and that’s a really good place to be.

“I do have a speed secret though: I got food poisoning last night. I was up all night sick as a dog. I just limped in this morning, but once I put the helmet on and buckled the seatbelt it was as if nothing ever happened. But, as soon as I stopped in the paddock again, I wanted to take a nap.”

Galati, ended the session 0.075-second behind his teammate, turning a 1:30.193 (89.328 mph) in the No. 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT-3. Pilgrim completed the top three in the No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V with a time of 1:30.470 (89.055 mph). Pilgrim was followed on the timesheets by Ron Fellows, of Mississauga, Ont., also in the No. 16 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V, who clocked a 1:30.566 (88.960 mph).

James Sofronas, of Newport Beach, Calif., completed the top five, turning a 1:30.610 (88.917 mph) in the No. 14 GMG/Tolar Manufacturing Porsche 911 GT3.

Scotty B. White (Dodge Viper), Lawson Aschenbach (Cadillac CTS-V), Cindi Lux (Dodge Viper), Michael McCann (Dodge Viper) and Jeff Courtney (Dodge Viper) completed the top ten.

The second SCCA SPEED GT practice session at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. (PDT). Live timing and notes are available at www.world-challenge.com.

Results from the first practice session for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Ten race, part of the Monterey Sports Car Championships at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:30.118, 89.402.
2, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:30.193, 89.328.
3, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:30.470, 89.055.
4, (16), Ron Fellows, Mississauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 1:30.566, 88.960.
5, (14), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:30.610, 88.917.
6, (3), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 1:30.842, 88.690.
7, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:30.922, 88.612.
8, (2), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 1:31.181, 88.360.
9, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 1:31.317, 88.229.
10, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 1:31.423, 88.126.
11, (17), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:31.437, 88.113.
12, (56), Ritch Marziale, Tempe, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:31.547, 88.007.
13, (28), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:31.622, 87.935.
14, (11), Mike Davis, Huntington Beach, Calif., Ford Mustang Cobra, 1:31.778, 87.785.
15, (13), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Dodge Viper, 1:31.922, 87.648.
16, (31), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:32.066, 87.511.
17, (87), Tomy Drissi, Hollywood, Calif., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:32.102, 87.477.
18, (09), Gunter Schaldach(R), Aspen, Colo., Dodge Viper Comp Coupe, 1:32.155, 87.426.
19, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:32.943, 86.685.
20, (10), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Saleen SR, 1:32.970, 86.660.
21, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 1:33.150, 86.492.
22, (29), Eric Olberz(R), La Canada Flintridge, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:33.287, 86.365.
23, (7), Brett Pearson, Orlando, Fla., Dodge Viper, 1:33.359, 86.299.
24, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:33.370, 86.289.
25, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 1:34.158, 85.566.
26, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 1:35.363, 84.485.
27, (21), Paul Bonaccorsi, Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., Pontiac GTO, 1:36.806, 83.226.
28, (12), Nick Parker(R), Seattle, Wash., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:39.139, 81.267.
29, (18), Jason Foster, Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:39.597, 80.894.
30, (00), Al Becerra, San Jose, Calif., Dodge Viper, no time.

Attached image: The No. 22 K-PAX LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT-3 of Randy Pobst.
Credit: Mark Weber

Posted On 10/19/07

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Herr Tops Morning Practice at SPEED Touring Car Final

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 04:18:43 PST

Herr Tops Morning Practice at SPEED Touring Car Final
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

MONTEREY, Calif., (October 19, 2007) – Chip Herr, of Lititz, Pa., topped the time sheets in morning practice for Round Ten of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship. Peter Cunningham, of Grafton, Wis., and Brandon Davis, of Denver, Colo., were second and third fastest, respectively, at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

Herr hit the top of the timing monitors early and continued to whittle down his time throughout the 20-minute practice session. By the end, a 1:35.929 was the (83.987 mph) was good enough to keep the No. 17 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Nalley Audi A4 on top.

“We made some really great changes,” Herr said. “We put a stiffer bar on the car that we’ve never used before. Yesterday, I tested it and today I think we proved it’s going to work for qualifying at least.

“We haven’t historically done well here. I finished fifth here last year and I qualified 10th. I don’t know if I’ll be able to pass a bunch of cars again on the start like I did last year. There’s a lot of people here battling for Championships so it’s going to be tough. I don’t want to be in the midst of it, but I’m going to be there.”

Four-time World Challenge Champion Cunningham ended the session second fastest in his No. 42 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura TSX. The winningest driver in series history entered a time of 1:36.450 (83.533 mph). Teammate Davis in the No. 43 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura TSX completed the top three with a time of 1:36.478 (83.509 mph).

Currently second in the Drivers’ Champion, Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., was fourth on the time sheets, turning a 1:36.538 (83.457 mph) in his No. 73 MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development MAZDA6. Defending SCCA SPEED Touring Car Champion Pierre Kleinubing, of Coconut Creek, Fla., made it three Acuras in the top five, clocking a 1:36.804 (83.228 mph) in his No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/Real Time Racing Acura TSX.

Driving last year’s race-winning car, Kuno Wittmer (Acura RSX) was sixth, followed by Ian Baas (Audi A4), Nick Esayian (Acura TSX), Jeff Altenburg (MAZDA6) and Charles Espenlaub (MAZDA6).

The second SCCA SPEED Touring Car practice session is scheduled for 5:05 p.m. (PDT). Live timing and lap notes are available at www.world-challenge.com.

Results from the first practice session for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round Ten race, part of the Monterey Sports Car Championships at Mazda Raceway, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 1:35.929, 83.987.
2, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 1:36.450, 83.533.
3, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 1:36.478, 83.509.
4, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., MAZDA6, 1:36.538, 83.457.
5, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 1:36.804, 83.228.
6, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 1:36.888, 83.155.
7, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 1:37.019, 83.043.
8, (34), Nick Esayian(T), Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 1:37.126, 82.952.
9, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., MAZDA6, 1:37.338, 82.771.
10, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., MAZDA6, 1:37.684, 82.478.
11, (74), Dino Crescentini, Malibu, Calif., MAZDA6, 1:37.727, 82.442.
12, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, MAZDA6, 1:37.781, 82.396.
13, (36), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 1:37.932, 82.269.
14, (38), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 1:38.155, 82.082.
15, (19), Adam Pecorari, Aston, Pa., Audi A4, 1:38.496, 81.798.
16, (88), Andrie Hartanto(R), San Francisco, Calif., Honda Civic, 1:38.725, 81.608.
17, (37), Matt Richmond, Mooresville, N.C., BMW 325i, 1:38.917, 81.450.
18, (25), Christian Miller, Newark, Calif., VW Jetta, 1:38.919, 81.448.
19, (57), Patrick Lindsey(R), Santa Barbara, Calif., MAZDA6, 1:39.085, 81.312.
20, (94), E. Glenn Bocchino(R), Delray Beach, Fla., MAZDA6, 1:39.130, 81.275.
21, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 1:39.795, 80.733.
22, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., MAZDA6, 1:40.851, 79.888.
23, (49), Carl Hober(R), Cape May, N.J., Acura TSX, 1:43.250, 78.032.
24, (31), Jameson Riley, Wilton, Conn., Volvo S40, no time.

Attached image: The No. 17 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Nalley Audi A4 of Chip Herr.
Credit: Mark Weber

Posted On 10/19/07

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Evosport Joins BMW CCA Club Racing As A Premier Sponsor

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 05:37:53 PST

Evosport Joins BMW CCA Club Racing As A Premier Sponsor
By Mark Dadgar, BMW CCA Club Racing

Greenville, SC (October, 15. 2007) – BMW CCA Club Racing is proud to announce that noted European automobile tuner evosport has joined the program as a Premier Sponsor.

"evosport is very well-known in the Club Racing community and has been a pillar of support for Club Racing in the Pacific Region," said BMW CCA Club Racing Chairman Mike Mills. "We are very excited that they are now taking their support nationwide. Their enthusiasm and expertise with BMWs, both on and off the race track, will be major assets to our program."

evosport, who currently serve many club racers via their shop in Southern California, are excited to expand the reach of their BMW performance tuning and racing operations.

"Many of evosport's California customers are active in the BMW CCA Club Racing program, as are the company's founders," evosport's Brad Otoupalik said. "We think that Club Racing provides some of the finest marque-based racing in North America and we could not be more pleased to be providing our support on a national level."

For more information about BMW CCA Club Racing, please visit:

http://www.bmwccaclubracing.com

For more information about evosport, please visit:

http://www.evosport.com

About BMW CCA Club Racing
Founded in 1995, BMW CCA Club Racing offers all BMW CCA licensed club racers a competitive driving experience conducted in a fun, safe, and friendly environment for all types of factory authorized or constructed BMWs. For more information, please visit our web site at http://www.bmwccaclubracing.com

About evosport
Founded in 1999 by Brad Otoupalik and Simon Atik, the evosport vision is to provide owners of high-line European automobiles a "one-stop shop" for all of their performance and visual enhancement needs. With a relentless passion, they have continued to increase the company's depth and breadth in pursuit of that vision. Today, evosport is a dynamic high-growth company and an industry leader in the delivery of premier aftermarket products and services for BMW, Mercedes and Ferrari automobiles.

Contact:
Mark Dadgar
Marketing Director, BMW CCA Club Racing
mark@justracing.com
(408) 348-2878

Brad Otoupalik
evosport
brad@evosport.com
(714) 901-3100 x15

Posted On 10/15/07

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Five Champions Successfully Defend Titles in Final Day of SCCA Runoffs

Sun, 14 Oct 2007 04:10:33 PST

Five Champions Successfully Defend Titles in Final Day of SCCA Runoffs
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 14, 2007) – The final eight Champions were crowned at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T. Despite looming cloud cover, nary a raindrop fell on Heartland Park Topeka, bringing a dry end to the event.

Kansan Jesse Prather (F Production), Wayland Joe (GT-2), Mike Miserendino (Spec Racer Ford), Stephen Oseth (Formula Vee) and James Goughary Jr. (Formula Mazda) each successfully defended their SCCA National Championships on the final day of competition.

Newly crowned Touring 1 Champion Andrew Aquilante, of Chester Springs, Pa. was awarded the President’s Cup by the Stewards of the event for demonstrating ability, competitiveness and success at this year’s Runoffs. Brian Linn, of Hermosa Beach, Fla., who finished runner-up in both F Production and H Production, was presented with the Mark Donohue award for outstanding performance, sportsmanship and competitiveness in SCCA road racing.

Race 18: Wayland Joe Wins Second Consecutive GT-2 SCCA National Championship

Wayland Joe, of South Barrington, Ill., won his second consecutive Valvoline GT-2 National Championship at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. Jim Walsh, of Redmond, Wash., and Jeff Moore, of Houston, Texas, finished second and third, respectively.

Polesitter Joe got a great start coming down the front straight heading into Turn One and took the early lead in his No. 1 Porsche GT-3. But, behind him there was a three-car incident involving Tom Patton’s No. 50 Sunbeam Tiger, Tony Rivera’s No. 52 Panoz GTS and Mark Plummer’s No. 31 Panoz GTS, which brought out a five lap caution to extract those machines from the course. All three drivers were able to get out of their cars.

When the race resumed on lap seven, Joe immediately put some distance between himself and then second place Jim Goughary. Goughary spent most of the race trying to catch Joe in his No. 46 Nissan/RedLine Oil Nissan 350z, but sustained a flat right side tire on lap 14 ending his day. From there, Joe was never challenged for the lead. He won by 3.401-seconds over Walsh.

“I am honored to win the National Championship again,” Joe said. “I got a good jump on Jim at the start, but you don’t know what those cars have. We know what Porsches have, but not the Nissan, the Sunbeam, or the Panoz. Patton is a great driver, Goughary is, Tony [Rivera] is, so I anticipated a hard race. The track conditions had changed, I was off the pace by three seconds. I was just hoping that others were running at the same pace as the track was wet and muddy. It was cold. I hit a mud patch once in Turn 10 and got a little sideways. I just tried to keep a gap to second place. I was keeping about five seconds and then he was out. I am very happy and honored.”

At the start, Walsh, who started fifth in his No. 96 Microsoft Live Search/Yokohama Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, managed to avoid the three-car melee and put together a consistent drive to earn his first-career Runoffs podium finish.

With his third-place effort, Moore also piloted his No. 32 Driversource Competition Panoz GTS to his first-career Runoffs podium finish.

Andrew Hauck III, of Cincinnati, recorded a fourth-place finish in his No. 41 Prather Racing Porsche 996, while Paul Baynard Jr., of Southlake, Texas, finished fifth in his No. 22 AutoComp Racing Toyota Celica.

Tony Giordano, of Overland Park, Kan., was the Sunoco Hard Charger for advancing seven positions during the race. He started 19th and finished 12th.

Race 19: Knowles Crowned Touring 2 Champion at SCCA Runoffs

Don Knowles, of Pittsboro, N.C., won his fourth SCCA National Championship by dominating the Touring 2 race at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T. William Ziegler, of Stamford, Conn., and Edward Zabinski, of Hallandale Beach, Fla., finished second and third, respectively.

Second-starting Zabinski had a great start in his No. 79 theracingcoach.com Pontiac Solstice, but polesitter Knowles powered his No. 35 Phoenix Performance/Iracing.com/Hoosier Pontiac Solstice into the lead by Turn One. From there, it was no looking back for Knowles, who steadily pulled away from the rest of the field. He finished the 18-lap race with a 3.112-second margin of victory, after slowing down for a victory wave to his crew.

“It has been a long nine days,” Knowles said. “The weather was difficult, and then we blew the turbo in this morning’s warmup. We only had two and a half hours until the race and we had to change it. We took a turbo off a street car, replaced the race car turbo with it, performed all the checks and made sure all the hoses were on. Meanwhile, while this was going on, I was over in the corner throwing up. I really wasn’t stressed about it for the race though. I figured that on the pace lap it would either be right or it would blow up-nothing I could do about it. I got through Turn One alright and figured everything was okay, so I just focused on the race.”

It was the first Touring 2 SCCA National Championship for Knowles, who is a three-time Showroom Stock B Champion.

Zabinski held down the second spot for most of the race before traction control issues allowed him to be reeled in by Ziegler’s No. 05 Swisher/Phoenix/Hoosier Pontiac Solstice. After hounding Zabinski for several laps, Ziegler made his move into second on lap 16. Zabsinski held with him, but was unable to challenge and settled for third. It was still an impressive result for Zabinski considering his first laps in the car were on Thursday after he made the decision to switch from a Lotus to a Solstice on Tuesday.

David Schotz, of Chandler, Ariz., and Ken Dobson, of Sonoma, Calif., completed the top five. Michael Sanos, of San Lorenzo, Calif., won the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing six positions during the race in his No. 16 worksEvo.com/Hoosier Mitsubishi Evo.

Race 20: Thrash Wins First E Production SCCA National Championship

Thomas Thrash Jr., of Houston, Texas, lead all 18-laps of the E Production race to claim his first SCCA National Championship at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T. Tony Rivera, of Missouri City, Texas, and Bob Neal, of Harbor City, Calif., completed the top three.

After starting on pole and finishing second last year in E Production, Thrash took no chances in 2007, grabbing the EP lead from polesitter and defending Champion Lawrence Loshak at the start. Loshak’s No. 02 Enginetrans.com Honda Prelude remained in Thrash’s mirrors and ready to pounce as Thrash’s No. 67 Mazda/Goodyear/Lucas Racing RX7 began to get loose on lap five. Two laps later, Loshak went for the lead in Turn 10, but ran wide and through the mud, giving the lead back to Thrash.

The off-course excursion cut the right-rear tire on Loshak’s car and his gap to Thrash began to increase with each lap. On lap 15 Loshak came into the pits, handing over second place to Rivera, who was now 16.766 seconds behind Thrash. With only three laps to go, nothing could stop Thrash from taking his first-ever SCCA National Championship.

“I have to give Lawrence (Loshak) a lot of kudos,” Thrash said. “He was pushing me hard, especially through the middle part of the race. I was coming through eight and I was not getting through there fast enough, maybe there was something on the track, and he was catching me. We went down into Turn Ten and we were side-by-side and he went really deep and he went off a little bit. He must have lost a tire or something then. That was it for him, unfortunately, because we were really stuck in a tough battle. After that, I was just driving around trying to keep the pace up. This is a wonderful feeling; we have been working so hard.”

Rivera moved from fourth on the grid to third at the start in his No. 52 ESCP/Hoosier Tire Mazda RX-7 and inherited the runner-up spot with Loshak’s pit stop, equaling his best-ever Runoffs finish. Neal in the No. 08 MazdaTRIX/Performance Solutions Mazda RX7 finished third for the second year in-a-row.

Aaron Downey, of Corona Del Mar, Calif., and David Lemon, of Signal Hill, Calif., completed the top five.

Michael Sturm, of Grafton, Wis., won the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing nine positions during the race in his No. 48 Honda City/Shorewest Realty Honda Prelude Si.

Race 21: Oseth Captures Second Consecutive Formula Vee SCCA National Championship

Steve Oseth, of Leesburg, Va., used a late last lap pass to win his second-consecutive Formula Vee National Championship at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. Michael Varacins, of Burlington, Wis., and Bob Neumeister, of Pueblo, Colo., completed the top three.

Oseth, who is the defending Formula Vee National Champion, led only one lap in the chase for the Formula Vee crown – the last lap. Driving the No. 72 Hoosier Tire/DBM Racing Vortech 07, Oseth spent most of the race mired in second place, trying to chase down then race leader Varacins. Oseth finally caught and passed Varacins on the last lap going into Turn Alpha and never looked back winning by a slim 0.239-second over Varacins.

“The truth is, I probably couldn’t have caught Mike if it hadn’t been for the lapped traffic,” Oseth said of his win. “It seemed to me that his car went off about five laps or so before the end. It seemed that the back end was starting to slip out a little bit. My car was good all the way to the end. He was faster than me through the fast stuff. It was really tough keeping pace with him early on. There aren’t many opportunities, so you take them where you can. Last year, we had two braking areas where you could take somebody, but those don’t exist anymore, so you are pretty much left to drafting. I think that I got a better run on him coming out of the last turn and I picked up a car length or so on him as we were exiting, and that let me by him.”

Polesitter Varacins got a great jump at the start in his No. 65 Speed Sport Eng./Veetech/Hoosier Speed Sport AM-5 and led the first 17 of the 18-lap race. In fact, at one point Varacins led by more than two seconds until he caught lapped traffic, allowing Oseth to narrow the gap to less than a second with two laps to go. Varacins did everything he could to keep Oseth behind him, but could not hold the lead with only 14 corners remaining in the race. This was Varacins’ second consecutive second-place finish in the Formula Vee National Championship race.

Starting on the outside of front row, Neumeister dropped to fifth at the start in his No. 94 Hoosier Tire/RedLine Vortech Vortech. Undaunted by his early loss of position, Neumeister methodically worked his way back into the top three by lap 12, which is where he finished. This was Neumeister’s first-career Formula Vee National Championship podium finish.

Brad Stout, of Webster Groves, Mo., finished fourth in his No. 35 Goodyear/Noble/LRE/BRP ACI Vorech 2005. Steven Davis, of Powder Springs, Ga., piloted his No. 80 Butler Engines/Goodyear/Valvoline Racer’s Wage to a fifth-place finish.

Warren Holcomb, of Denver, was the Sunoco Hard Charger for advancing 14 positions during the race.

Race 22: Miserendino Takes Second Consecutive Spec Racer Ford National Championship

Mike Miserendino, of Los Angeles, captured his second-straight Spec Racer Ford title at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T. Brian Schofield, of Lakeland, Fla., and John Black, of Olympic Valley, Calif., completed the top three.

Miserendino grabbed the lead immediately at the start in his No. 11 MBI Racing Spec Racer Ford. But, before the entire 37-car field could even cross the start-finish line at Heartland Park Topeka, several cars came together on the front stretch. Two cars made contact with the wall, leaving debris and three cars stranded on the front stretch. The race immediately went full-course yellow and after one lap of caution, race officials brought the field into pit lane to allow a faster cleanup of the front stretch.

The race resumed with a single-file restart and Miserendino promptly pulled away from the rest of the field, while Schofield, Jordon Gore, of Vero Beach, Fla., and Black commenced a fight for the final podium spots behind him. With a battle raging behind him, Miserendino cruised to his second-consecutive Spec Racer Ford National Championship, winning the 14-lap race by nearly five seconds.

“My car was really strong the first couple laps,” Miserendino said. “I really wanted to make it into Turn One first, because I knew I could pound out some real good laps and hopefully the guys behind would start to battle and allow me to get away. My car handled really well and I was able to drive consistently and hit the marks every lap and build the gap a little bit. On the restart, I was able to get another good start and to hold them off into one.”

Gore put heavy pressure on Schofield’s No. 61 PM Racing Spec Racer Ford throughout the race, but also had a mirror full of Black’s No. 17 Spec Racer Ford. On the final lap, Gore took a look to the inside of Schofield in Turn One, but couldn’t make it stick. The lost momentum allowed Black by and into third, but Gore was glued to his bumper. As the pair exited the final corner, Gore pulled alongside Black and it was a drag race to the checkered flag. Black just edged Gore and filled the final SRF podium spot. Cliff White, of Vail, Colo., completed the top five.

Nick Evans, of Hilliard, Ohio, was the Sunoco Hard Charger, advancing 12 positions in his No. 91 Jay Motorsports/BWS/Cedar Ent. Spec Racer Ford.

Race 23: Prather Wins Second F Production SCCA National Championship

Local driver Jesse Prather and Brian Linn, of Hermosa Beach, Calif., put on one of the most exciting races of the weekend at Heartland Park Topeka, when Prather narrowly beat Linn by 0.898-second to win his second-consecutive F Production National Championship at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T. Harold Flescher, of West Palm Beach, Fla., finished third.

The side-by-side battle between polesitter Prather and Linn began just seconds after the green flag dropped on the F Production race. Prather grabbed the early lead in his No. 1 Prather Racing Mazda Miata. Linn, driving the No. 31 Hoosier/RedLine Oil MG Midget, briefly took the lead for the first time from Prather on lap five. Unfortunately for Linn, Prather regained the lead one corner later. For the next 13 laps of the 18-lap race, Prather and Linn raced each other hard exchanging the lead several times before Prather finally took the lead for good on lap 16.

“Last year when I came into this room I said that I had never driven harder in my life,” Prather said. “This year, guess what? It was ten times as hard! Brian is a phenomenal driver. It was a great race. He had a better handling car, I had a little more power, and we went back and forth. It was very interesting, the way I could pull him on the straight and he would pull up on me and he was killing me in one and two. I didn’t think that I could go much faster through one and two without going off. We went side by side through three, then four, then five, then six, then seven. You know, when you race with a clean driver like that, it is a pleasure. The side-by-side was such fun, I adjusted my shifts, and I could hear his engine, he could hear my engine, that was such fun. That was the best race of my career, for sure.”

“The first few laps I did not know if I could catch him,” Linn said. “He was maintaining a gap to me and I was starting to get concerned. Then it seemed that his tires began to go off a little bit before mine did and I was able to close up on him. I was faster through two and three and he was faster down the straights. We had a very good battle. It was very clean. For as many times as we were side-by-side through multiple corners. We made it through them all. One time one guy would be off line in the marbles and the next corner the other would be. It was incredible how even it was. It was really fun racing.”

Flescher drove an impressive race in the No. 93 C.A.R.S. /RedLine/Goodyear Austin Healey Sprite to finish third. Flesher’s F Production Runoffs podium finish was the eighth of his career.

Eric Prill, of Topeka, Kan., finished fourth in his No. 7 800-Fight-MS/Hoosier/Prather Lotus Super 7. Joe Walker, of Richland, Mich., piloted his No. 5 Walker Racing Lotus Super 7 to a fifth-place finish.

Driving the No. 89 C. W. Horton General Contractor MG Midget, Charles Horton, of Hayward, Calif., was the Sunoco Hard Charger for advancing 10 positions during the race.

Race 24: Race Osborne Cruises to D Sports Racing National Championship

J.R. Osborne, of Castle Rock, Colo., led flag-to-flag at Heartland Park Topeka to capture the D Sports Racing National Championship at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T. Mark Jaremko, of Spokane, Wash., and Jean-Luc Liverato, of Alpharetta, Ga., finished second and third, respectively, after an exciting late-race shootout.

Starting from the pole, Osborne was untouchable in his No. 83 Equinox Land/Rilltech/GodSped Inc. Stohr WF-1, holding off his competitors in Turn One and never looking back. At the conclusion of the caution-free, 18-lap race, Osborne had built an 11.726-second lead to claim his first SCCA National Championship.

“It’s just a relief to finish,” Osborne said. “I’ve always run into issues my whole racing career. The only luck I have is bad luck, so to finally put one together that means something significant and have everything come together means the world to me right now. This is affirmation that this is what I need to keep doing.

“The race was perfect. It probably wasn’t fun to watch, but it was a perfect race for me. I got a good jump, put my head down and tried to go as hard as I could for about five or six laps to build that gap up. Then, I just ran consistent times and I was hoping the guys behind me were doing just what they were doing, battling and slowing each other down. That allowed me to save my tires, save my brakes and make sure the car was going to make it to the end. It was the perfect race for a racer – uneventful. I’m thrilled to finally get a National Championship.”

All the action was unfolding behind Osborne, where the No. 2 Loynings/Goodyear/Redline Stohr WF-1 WSL of Jaremko and the No. 8 Expanded Tech/KWS/Hoosier Stohr WF-1 of Liverato were dueling for the runner-up spot. Liverato got a great start, going from fourth to second by Turn One, while defending Champion Jaremko slotted into third.

Jaremko cranked up the pressure on Lap 12, then made his move a lap later through Turn Six. Liverato hung with Jaremko through the closing laps and when Jaremko hit lapped traffic in the chicane, Liverato shot by to take the runner-up spot. Jaremko was unphased, retaking the position into Turn 10 and holding the position to the checkered flag. Liverato’s chase for the SCCA Chicago Region Triple Crown ended with a third-place finish.

Joshua Held, of San Carlos, Calif., and Dorian Foyil, of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., finished fourth and fifth, respectively.

Roy Maxwell, of Arlinton, Texas, was the Sunoco Hard Charger, advancing seven positions during the race in his No. 55 Racing Engine Service Mystery III.

Race 25: Goughary Cruises to Formula Mazda SCCA National Championship

James Goughary, of Jupiter, Fla., cruised to his second-consecutive Formula Mazda National Championship in the final race of the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. Sam Stuard, of Shippensburg, Pa., and Juan Marchand, of South Haven, Mich., completed the top three.

Under overcast skies, polesitter Goughary grabbed the lead heading into the Turn One on the start and was never really seriously challenged for the lead. Goughary powered his No. 72 RedLine Oil Star Formula Mazda to a 3.495-second win over first time Runoffs competitor Stuard. With the win, Goughary also won the Chicago Region SCCA Triple Crown ®.

“From where I was sitting, it wasn’t an easy race,” Goughary said. “I thought I threw it away that first lap. The cold tires and green race track caught me a little bit off guard. I turned in slightly late going into Turn Eight going straight off the outside and then to the inside of Nine. I came back across and hit a big curb and got about three or four inches in the air and hit my right front so hard that I though I’d knocked the wing off the car. I thought for sure my race was over.

“I saw Sam behind me and I just tried to concentrate on running smooth, consistent laps the best I could and try to build any sort of a gap. I think once I pulled away a little bit, he lost the draft and he was done.

“I was waiting for something to break the whole race. The car was vibrating and shaking the whole race. When the race was over and I pulled in and the crew told me I broke the right front shock right off the car. I’m very fortunate to be sitting here right now.

“This gives me a shot at the Mazda shootout for the MX-5 Cup car again, which I got to do last year, but left without it. Maybe this time I’ll be able to take the prize. I also got the Triple Crown, which is a big thing for me personally. My career has been primarily with SCCA over the past 20 years and the Triple Crown is a pretty unique thing. I’m so glad I was able to do that this year.”

At the race start, Stuard dropped one spot from second to third. Fortunately for Stuard, he was right on the rear bumper of Marchand and was able to slip by him on lap three. Now riding in second, Stuard did everything he could in his No. 48 RamTech/Ski Motorsports Star Formula Mazda to chase down Goughary. But, in the in end, he did not quite have enough. Stuard finished second recording his first-career Runoffs podium finish in his first try.

Starting third, Marchand made a nice move at the start and moved up to second in his No. 45 JRM Motorsports@GingerMan Star Formula Mazda. Once Stuard passed him, Marchand tried to stay with Stuard. But, unfortunately, Stuard proved too much for Marchand to handle and he had to settle for a third-place finish.

Jack Wilfley, of Carbondale, Colo., finished fourth in his No. 06 Star Formula Mazda. He was also the Sunoco Hard Charger for advancing five positions during the race. Jaime Slone, of Tucson, Ariz., drove his No. 6 sloneracing.com Star Formula Mazda to a fifth-place finish on course, but race officials docked Slone a position following the race, handing the fifth spot to Doug Peterson, of Bonita Springs, Fla.

Results, by race, from Sunday’s SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka with finishing position, starting position, driver, hometown, car, laps complete and time behind winner.

Race 18, GT-2
1, 1, Wayland Joe, South Barrington, IL, Porsche GT-3, 18
2, 5, Jim Walsh, Redmond, WA, Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, 18, -3.401
3, 7, Jeffrey Moore, Houston, TX, Porsche GT3 Cup, 18, -3.86
4, 11, Andrew Hauck III, Cincinnati, OH, Porsche 996, 18, -24.241
5, 9, Paul Baynard Jr., Southlake, TX, Toyota Celica, 18, -32.114
6, 12, Evan Gardner, Glendale, CA, Mazda RX7, 18, -49.317
7, 13, Derek Jones, Philadelphia, PA, Porsche Boxster, 18, -58.576
8, 10, Marvin Epps, Temecula, CA, Porsche 968, 18, -59.78
9, 14, Milton Grant, Germantown, TN, Toyota Celica, 18, -1:08.187
10, 16, Timothy Gray, Eden Prairie, MN, Porsche GT3 Cup, 17, -1 Lap
11, 18, Tony Giordano Jr., Overland Park, KS, Nissan 280-Z, 17, -1:29.149
12, 19, Thomas Vlasak, Tallahassee, FL, Porsche 911, 17, -1:47.551
13, 2, James Goughary, Houston, TX, Nissan 350z, 13, -5 Laps
14, 17, David Lemon, Signal Hill, CA, Mazda RX7, 11, -7 Laps
15, 8, Gerald Mason, Fishers, IN, Nissan 300ZX, 9, -9 Laps
DNF, 15, Richard Smith, Loxahatchee, FL, Mazda RX7, 1, -17 Laps
DNF, 3, Tom Patton, Hamilton, OH, Sunbeam Tiger, 0, -18 Laps
DNF, 4, Tony Rivera, Missouri City, TX, Panoz GTS, 0, -0.343
DNF, 6, Mark Plummer, Plano, TX, Panoz GTS, 0, -0.385
DNS, 20, Mike Henderson, El Cajon, CA, Mazda RX7, 0, --
Average race speed: 70.664 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:38.740, Wayland Joe
Lap leaders: Laps 1-18, Wayland Joe

Race 19, Touring 2
1, Don Knowles, Pittsboro, NC, Pontiac Solstice, 18
2, William Ziegler, StamFord, CT, Pontiac GXP, 18, -3.112
3, Edward Zabinski, Hallandale Beach, FL, Pontiac Soltice, 18, -4.058
4, David Schotz, Chandler, AZ, Pontiac Firebird Formula, 18, -20.677
5, Ken Dobson, Sonoma, CA, Nissan 350z, 18, -25.143
6, John Buttermore, Pontiac, MI, Cadillac CTS-V, 18, -33.421
7, Michael Santos, San Lorenzo, CA, Mitsubishi Evo, 18, -37.243
8, William Baten, Indianapolis, IN, Chevrolet Camaro Z28, 18, -40.091
9, Jason Henderson, Cincinnati, OH, Nissan 350z, 18, -52.276
10, Marty Grand, Manassas Park, VA, Mitsubishi Evo IX, 18, -53.384
11, Chris Brannon, Mntn Home, Ar, Pontiac GTO, 18, -58.394
12, Michael Pettiford, Louisville, CO, Camaro Corvette Z28, 18, -59.593
13, William Moore Jr., Chagrin Falls, OH, Chevrolet Camaro, 18, -1:13.767
14, Kumar Viswalingam, Cincinnati, OH, Pontiac Firebird, 18, -1:16.992
15, Joe Hermes, Happy Valley, OR, Nissan 350z, 18, -1:32.875
16, Rob Hines, Arlington, VA, Nissan 350z, 18, -1:50.481
17, Segundo Quinones, Glenwood, MD, Chevrolet Camaro, 17, -1 Lap
18, CJ Moses, Gainesville, VA, Mitsubishi Evo 9 MR, 17, -4.105
19, Richard Roberts, Chicago, IL, BMW M3, 17, -13.035
20, Dennis Aubuchon, Arnold, MO, Lotus Elise, 17, -20.05
21, Steven Christopher, Olathe, KS, Fast F22, 17, -56.526
22, Arthur Brass, Houston, TX, Ford Mustang, 17, -1:03.140
23, Spencer Gorham Jr., Gresham, OR, Nissan 350z, 17, -1:03.613
DNF, Bryan Viviani, Leechburg, PA, Subaru STI, 7, -11 Laps
DNF, George Biskup, Naperville, IL, Dodge SRT-4, 7, -1:06.145
DNF, Joseph Aquilante, Chester Springs, PA, Pontiac Solstice GXP, 7, -2:12.551
DNF, John Baldwin Jr., Covington, LA, Subaru STi, 5, -13 Laps
DNS, John Tecce, Ormond Beach, FL, BMW M3, 0, --
DNS, Guy Pavageau, Columbia, MD, Chevrolet Camaro Z28, 0, --
Average race speed: 82.932 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:45.468, Don Knowles
Lap leaders: Laps 1-18, Don Knowles

Race 20, E Production
1, 2, Thomas Thrash Jr, Houston, TX, Mazda RX7, 18
2, 4, Tony Rivera, Missouri City, TX, Mazda RX7, 18, -21.637
3, 5, Bob Neal, Harbor City, CA, Mazda RX7, 18, -23.28
4, 6, Aaron Downey, Corona Del Mar, CA, Mazda RX3, 18, -38.293
5, 8, David Lemon, Signal Hill, CA, Mazda RX7, 18, -43.314
6, 3, Jon Brakke, Fargo, ND, Mazda Miata, 18, -55.772
7, 11, Ernest Anderson, Beaverton, OR, Mazda RX7, 18, -1:02.440
8, 9, Donald Ahrens, Gainesville, FL, Nissan 240z, 18, -1:03.745
9, 13, Kevin Grant, Eads, TN, Mazda Miata, 18, -1:07.862
10, 17, Charlie Clark, Mission, KS, Mazda RX7, 18, -1:13.118
11, 14, Michael Hart, Cypress, TX, Madza RX7, 18, -1:18.028
12, 12, Kenneth Shreve, Sammamish, WA, Mazda RX7, 18, -1:23.968
13, 22, Gary Martz, Canton, OH, Mazda RX7, 18, -1:24.479
14, 19, Meredith Haupt, Overland Park, KS, Mazda RX7, 18, -1:28.357
15, 21, Gary Gist, Del Mar, CA, Mazda RX7, 18, -1:34.642
16, 25, Ryan Ennis, Vancouver, BC, Mazda RX7, 18, -1:49.729
17, 26, Michael Sturm, Grafton, WI, Honda Prelude Si, 18, -1:50.597
18, 7, Greg Ira, Plantation, FL, Nissan 240z, 17, -1 Lap
19, 27, James Speights, San Antonio, TX, Caterham Super 7, 17, -1.28
20, 15, Terry Jesk, Mokena, IL, Mazda Miata, 17, -9.64
21, 18, Barry Thomas, Quinlan, TX, Mazda RX7, 17, -15.503
22, 29, William Smith III, Lutherville Timonium, MD, Mazda RX7, 17, -18.765
23, 24, Richard Kavitski, Freeland, PA, Mazda Miata, 17, -19.171
24, 32, Ron Olsen, Barrington, IL, Mazda RX7, 17, -31.15
25, 31, Wesley Cunningham, Houston, TX, Caterham 7 America, 17, -31.789
26, 16, Chuck Clark, Gardner, KS, Mazda RX7, 17, -47.388
27, 30, Guy Ruse, Boulder, CO, Mazda RX7, 17, -49.425
28, 33, Christopher Garel, Lake City, FL, Mazda RX7, 17, -56.633
29, 36, John Longwell, Kittredge, CO, BMW 318is, 17, -58.345
30, 37, Donald Walsh, Orrtanna, PA, Mazda RX7, 17, -1:52.682
31, 1, Lawrence Loshak, Milwaukee, WI, Honda Prelude Si, 13, -5 Laps
32, 34, Ray Stephenson, Miami, FL, Mazda RX7, 9, -9 Laps
DNF, 83, Sam Halkias, Westerville, OH, Triumph TR-6, 7, -11 Laps
DNF, 23, Joseph Skorch, Chandler, AZ, Mazda RX7, 7, -4.953
DNF, 28, Robert Hummel, McHenry, IL, Mazda RX7, 5, -13 Laps
DNF, 20, Brian Haupt, Spring Hill, KS, Mazda RX7, 2, -16 Laps
DNS, 35, Sam Moore, Kannapolis, NC, BMW z3, 0, --
DNS, 38, David Headley, Cortez, CO, MG B, 0, --
Average race speed: 85.921 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:42.066, Tom Thrash
Lap leaders: Laps 1-18, Tom Thrash

Race 21, Formula Vee
1, 4, Stephen Oseth, Leesburg, VA, Vortech 7, 18
2, 1, Michael Varacins, Burlington, WI, Speed Sport AM-5, 18, -0.238
3, 2, Bob Neumeister, Pueblo, CO, Vortech Vortech, 18, -6.574
4, 3, Brad Stout, Webster Groves, MO, Vortech 2005, 18, -7.992
5, 10, Stevan Davis, Powder Springs, GA, Racer's Wage --, 18, -23.755
6, 6, Jeffrey Loughead, Darien, IL, Vortech CR04, 18, -23.878
7, 12, Lisa Noble, Manhattan, KS, Vortech A, 18, -24.144
8, 13, James Kearney, Lancaster, PA, Protoform P3, 18, -24.844
9, 9, Roger Siebenaler, Williston, VT, Mysterian M-2, 18, -24.992
10, 7, Dennis Andrade, Brush Prairie, WA, Vortech Vortech, 18, -25.035
11, 8, Rick Shields, West Mifflin, PA, VDF VDF-2, 18, -31.858
12, 5, Stephen Dreizler, Shell Knob, MO, Vortech Vortech, 18, -33.419
13, 11, Edward Womer, Suitland, MD, Womer EV-3, 18, -40.146
14, 18, Phillip Holcomb, Longmont, CO, Citation 88V, 18, -40.362
15, 19, Jim Rainey, Palmer, TX, Vortech 3, 18, -50.305
16, 24, Raymond Phillips, Sterling, VA, Protoform P3, 18, -56.971
17, 20, Timothy Remmers, New HartFord, CT, Protoform P2.5, 18, -57.139
18, 14, Gary Blanarik, Baden, PA, Caracal SB, 18, -1:11.279
19, 28, Neil Cox, Tulsa, OK, Protoform P 3, 18, -1:11.880
20, 16, L. Leroy Coppedge, The Dalles, OR, VDF VDF 1, 18, -1:22.897
21, 17, Charlie Rogers, Powder Springs, GA, Protoform P2, 18, -1:26.306
22, 23, Ron Whitston, Neenah, WI, Protoform P2, 18, -1:26.682
23, 30, Mark Felsen, Denver, CO, Vortech FV, 18, -1:29.060
24, 29, Philip Trinder, Houston, TX, Adams Aero, 18, -1:41.977
25, 39, Warren Holcomb, Denver, CO, Mysterian M-2, 18, -1:48.330
26, 32, Nick Maurus, Winnetka, IL, Citation 06V, 18, -1:51.821
27, 34, Eddie Cadena, Houston, TX, Protoform P2, 18, -1:52.594
28, 35, Michael Beaumia, Appleton, WI, Citation XTC-41, 18, -1:53.207
29, 38, Bill Griffith, Duncanville, TX, Adams Aero, 18, -1:53.390
30, 33, Vic Richter, Monticello, IN, Protoform P-3, 18, -1:58.597
31, 41, Paul Taylor, Denver, CO, Mysterian M2, 17, -1 Lap
32, 36, Donald Manthe, Santa Rosa, CA, FV FV, 17, -17.003
33, 40, Mike Rogers, Nederland, TX, Protoform P3, 17, -18.405
34, 43, Matthew Guzowski, Henderson, KY, Caracal C, 17, -18.613
35, 42, Michael Lauer, Cottonwd Fls, KS, Caracal C, 17, -26.325
36, 37, Albert Spadin Jr., Schellsburg, PA, Protoform P2, 17, -1:12.525
37, 44, Charles Turner, Mission Viejo, CA, Protoform P3, 17, -1:37.348
38, 25, Michael Landon, Zionsville, IN, Dunlap WASP LM 2, 16, -2 Laps
39, 26, Eugene Grimes, Peconic, NY, Mysterian old, 15, -3 Laps
DNF, 21, David Scaler, Flemington, NJ, Mysterian CM2, 5, -13 Laps
DNF, 15, Bruce Livermore, Stillwater, MN, Mysterian X-M2, 5, -59.546
DNF, 31, Jon Tate, Arlington, TN, Proroform P2, 5, -4:06.885
DNF, 22, Nick Grapsas, Eureka, MO, Citation FV, 4, -14 Laps
DNS, 46, Alan Harrington, Mulino, OR, Protoform P3, 0, --
DNS, 47, James Doyle, Houston, TX, Protoform P4, 0, --
DNS, 45, Charles Hearn Jr., Houston, TX, Protoform P-2, 0, --
DNS, 27, Zan Smith, Colorado Springs, CO, Vortec FV, 0, --
Average race speed: 81.564 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:49.306, Stephen Oseth
Lap leaders: Laps 1, Brad Stout; laps 2-17, Michael Varacins; lap 18, Stephen Oseth

Race 22, Spec Racer Ford
1, 1, Mike Miserendino, Los Angeles, CA, Spec Racer Ford, 14
2, 3, Brian Schofield, Lakeland, FL, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -4.715
3, 4, John Black, Olympic Valley, CA, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -4.81
4, 2, Jordan Gore, Vero Beach, FL, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -5.197
5, 5, Cliff White, Vail, CO, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -5.915
6, 6, Mark Eaton, Melbourne, FL, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -9.314
7, 9, Robert Breton, San Ramon, CA, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -14.847
8, 20, Nick Evans, Hilliard, OH, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -15.787
9, 10, Derek DeFonce, New Preston, CT, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -17.231
10, 8, William Jucha, Tehachapi, CA, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -18.585
11, 16, Jeff Beck, Ingleside, IL, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -18.798
12, 12, John Dunn, Greenwood Village, CO, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -19.217
13, 13, Jonathan Bennett, Fort Mill, SC, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -20.566
14, 17, Ralph Green Jr., Charleston, WV, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -23.07
15, 18, James Marinangel, McHenry, IL, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -23.453
16, 15, Scott Treat, Howell, MI, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -23.884
17, 21, Andrew Charbonneau, Delray Beach, FL, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -24.055
18, 19, H. Franklin Stone, Leawood, KS, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -30.842
19, 24, James Gray, Minneapolis, MN, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -34.799
20, 23, Michael Wold-Steele, Omaha, NE, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -37.156
21, 25, Stephen Pence, Reston, VA, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -45.589
22, 28, Don Bodin, Excelsior, MN, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -46.251
23, 27, Thomas Riley, New Fairfield, CT, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -46.343
24, 31, Jim Cote Jr., Overland Park, KS, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -47.148
25, 14, Todd Lamberton, Portland, OR, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -47.315
26, 30, David Harriman, San Jose, CA, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -49.465
27, 37, Dr Mark Hutchins, Lincoln , Ne, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -54.673
28, 36, Rick Bartuska, Inverness, IL, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -57.701
29, 32, Dean Cunningham, Mokena, IL, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -1:03.241
30, 38, George Scott, El Jebel, CO, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -1:09.592
31, 34, John Treat, Dexter, MI, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -1:18.896
32, 39, Wade White Jr., Vail, CO, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -1:25.693
33, 40, Jim Cote Sr., Overland Park, KS, Spec Racer Ford, 14, -1:27.402
34, 22, Kenneth Sellenriek Jr, Wentzville, MO, Spec Racer Ford, 10, -4 Laps
DNF, 11, Michael Amy, Spring Grove, PA, Spec Racer Ford, 0, -14 Laps
DNF, 26, Johnny Humphreys, Veradale, WA, Spec Racer Ford, 0, -2.566
DNF, 35, William Douglas, Appleton, WI, Spec Racer Ford, 0, -3.781
DNF, 29, James Rishel, Wich, KS, Spec Racer Ford, 0, --
DNF, 33, Reid Johnson, Hamel, MN, Spec Racer Ford, 0, --
DNS, 7, Lee Fleming, Lake Forest, CA, Spec Racer Ford, 0, --
DNS, 42, Matthew Inge, Fort Myers, FL, Spec Racer Ford, 0, --
DNS, 41, William Parenteau, Stillwater, Mn, SRF SRF, 0, --
Average race speed: 51.628 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:48.878, Brian Schofield
Lap leaders: Lap 1, Mike Miserendino; lap 2, Cliff White; laps 3-14, Mike Miserendino

Race 23, F Production
1, 1, Jesse Prather, Topeka, KS, Mazda Miata, 18
2, 2, Brian Linn, Hermosa Beach, CA, MG Midget, 18, -0.898
3, 9, Harold Flescher, West Palm Beach, FL, Austin Healey Sprite, 18, -15.528
4, 5, Eric Prill, Topeka, KS, Lotus Super 7, 18, -25.071
5, 4, Joe Walker, Richland, MI, Lotus Super 7, 18, -35.637
6, 6, Mason Workman, Reynoldsburg, OH, Mazda Miata, 18, -42.425
7, 10, Gerald Lamb, Oswego, IL, MG B, 18, -42.891
8, 8, F. Robert Bramlage, Manhattan, KS, Mazda Miata, 18, -44.043
9, 12, Andrew Hauck III, Cincinnati, OH, Mazda Miata, 18, -54.467
10, 11, Noel Hayward, Fairfield, CA, MG Midget, 18, -56.681
11, 15, Charles Udell, Chesterfield, MO, Mazda Miata, 18, -1:21.400
12, 14, Andrew Wright, Murfreesboro, TN, Lotus Super 7, 18, -1:28.690
13, 22, Mark Weber, Saint Louis, MO, Austin Healey Sprite, 18, -1:43.204
14, 24, Charles Horton, Hayward, CA, MG Midget, 18, -1:44.122
15, 21, Thomas Lyttle, Decatur, GA, Ford Capri, 17, -1 Lap
16, 16, Ronald Davis, Auburn, KS, MG B, 17, -11.443
17, 17, Tom Burdge, Hillsborough, NJ, Porsche 914, 17, -12.982
18, 20, Larry Svaton, Alvin, TX, Honda Del Sol, 17, -39.575
19, 23, Robert Maples, Littleton, CO, BMW 2002, 17, -41.44
20, 19, David Vestrand, Oakland, MI, Mazda Miata, 16, -2 Laps
DNF, 18, John Walker, Richland, MI, MG B, 3, -15 Laps
DNF, 13, James Blust, Castle Rock, CO, MG Midget, 2, -16 Laps
DNF, 3, Luis Rivera, Rosharon, TX, Mazda Miata, 2, -2:03.830
DNF, 7, Mark Carpenter, Burlington, CT, Acura Integra, 1, -17 Laps
Average race speed: 83.274 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:46.461, Jesse Prather
Lap leaders: Laps 1-5, Jesse Prather; laps 6-8, Brian Linn; lap 9, Jesse Prather; lap 10, Brian Linn; laps 11-13, Jesse Prather; lap 14, Brian Linn; laps 15-18, Jesse Prather

Race 24, D Sports Racing
1, 1, J R Osborne, Castle Rock, CO, Stohr WF-1, 18
2, 2, Mark Jaremko, Spokane, WA, Stohr WF1 WSL, 18, -11.726
3, 4, Jean-Luc Liverato, Alpharetta, GA, Stohr WF1, 18, -12.392
4, 5, Joshua Held, San Carlos, CA, Stohr WF1, 18, -20.269
5, 7, Dorian Foyil, Fort Lauderdale, FL, Stohr WF1, 18, -40.799
6, 8, R Gardner, Newark, DE, Stohr WF-1, 18, -59.59
7, 3, Chris Farrell, Salt Lake City, UT, Lee Stohr WF1, 18, -1:21.427
8, 9, Harvey Goldman, Winnipeg, MB, Stohr WF1, 17, -1 Lap
9, 11, David Arken, San Jose, CA, AMAC AM5, 16, -2 Laps
10, 14, Dave Knaack, Neenah, WI, Fastercar MK1, 16, -41.393
11, 18, Roy Maxwell, Arlington, TX, Mystery III, 16, -1:06.236
12, 6, Timothy Micklos, Salt Lake Cty, UT, Stohr WF1, 15, -3 Laps
13, 20, Charles Smith, Raytown, MO, Cheetah SR1, 15, -4:18.222
14, 15, Richard Colburn, Northbrook, IL, Phoenix Phoenix, 15, -4:25.959
15, 16, David Gomberg, Laurel, MD, Cheetah SR1, 12, -6 Laps
DNF, 10, Tom Bootz, Evansville, IN, Speads RS06A, 8, -10 Laps
DNF, 13, Tom Gonzales, Santa Fe, NM, Stohr 01D, 6, -12 Laps
DNF, 19, Laurence Meisner, Columbia, MD, Radical Clubsport, 5, -13 Laps
DNF, 12, Bill Gendron, Monson, MA, Dragon Sr2, 1, -17 Laps
DNS, 17, Carl Maier, Grand Prairie, TX, Lola 540, 0, --
Average race speed: 102.711 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:25.333, JR Osborn
Lap leaders: Laps 1-18, JR Osborn

Race 25, Formula Mazda
1, 1, James Goughary Jr, Jupiter, FL, Star Formula Mazda, 18
2, 2, Samuel Stuard, Shippensburg, PA, Star Formula Mazda, 18, -3.495
3, 3, Juan Marchand, South Haven, MI, Star Formula Mazda, 18, -15.646
4, 9, Jack Wilfley, Carbondale, CO, Star Formula Mazda, 18, -17.428
5, 8, Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, FL, Star Formula Mazda, 18, -21.689
6, 4, Jamie Slone, Tucson, AZ, Star Formula Mazda, 18, -21.084
7, 6, Russell Lindemann, Longmont, CO, Star Formula Mazda, 18, -23.144
8, 7, David Donovan, Fort Lauderdale, FL, Star Formula Mazda, 18, -24.281
9, 13, Lucian Pancea, Bellevue, WA, Star Formula Mazda, 18, -24.542
10, 5, Mark Broyles, Oswego, IL, Star Mazda , 18, -33.839
11, 15, Samuel Lockwood, Cumming, GA, Star Formula Mazda, 18, -36.986
12, 11, Mark Greb, Mount Vernon, IA, Star Formula Mazda, 18, -39.885
13, 10, Bob Hogan, Atlanta, GA, Star Formula Mazda, 18, -40.715
14, 14, Kenneth De Nault, Cedar Falls, IA, Star Formula Mazda, 18, -1:00.391
15, 17, Gary Phillips, Overland Park, KS, Star Formula Mazda, 17, -1 Lap
16, 18, Mark Felsen, Denver, CO, Star Formula Mazda, 17, -8.905
17, 19, Brian Sheppard, Livermore, CO, Star Mazda , 17, -9.161
DNF, 12, Guy Pipitone, Copley, OH, Star Formula Mazda, 2, -16 Laps
DNS, 16, Michael Fling, Edmond, OK, Star Formula Mazda, 0, --
DNS, 20, Dale Swope, Tampa, FL, Star Formula Mazda, 0, --
Average race speed: 94.751 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:34.278, James Goughary Jr.
Lap leaders: Laps 1-18, James Goughary Jr.

Attached image: Jesse Prather, of Topeka, Kan., took his second-consecutive F Production National Championship at the 2007 SCCA Runoffs.
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 10/14/07

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Osborne Cruises to D Sports Racing National Championship

Sun, 14 Oct 2007 04:06:04 PST

Osborne Cruises to D Sports Racing National Championship
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 14, 2007) – J.R. Osborne, of Castle Rock, Colo., led flag-to-flag at Heartland Park Topeka to capture the D Sports Racing National Championship at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T. Mark Jaremko, of Spokane, Wash., and Jean-Luc Liverato, of Alpharetta, Ga., finished second and third, respectively, after an exciting late-race shootout.

Starting from the pole, Osborne was untouchable in his No. 83 Equinox Land/Rilltech/GodSped Inc. Stohr WF-1, holding off his competitors in Turn One and never looking back. At the conclusion of the caution-free, 18-lap race, Osborne had built an 11.726-second lead to claim his first SCCA National Championship.

“It’s just a relief to finish,” Osborne said. “I’ve always run into issues my whole racing career. The only luck I have is bad luck, so to finally put one together that means something significant and have everything come together means the world to me right now. This is affirmation that this is what I need to keep doing.

“The race was perfect. It probably wasn’t fun to watch, but it was a perfect race for me. I got a good jump, put my head down and tried to go as hard as I could for about five or six laps to build that gap up. Then, I just ran consistent times and I was hoping the guys behind me were doing just what they were doing, battling and slowing each other down. That allowed me to save my tires, save my brakes and make sure the car was going to make it to the end. It was the perfect race for a racer – uneventful. I’m thrilled to finally get a National Championship.”

All the action was unfolding behind Osborne, where the No. 2 Loynings/Goodyear/Redline Stohr WF-1 WSL of Jaremko and the No. 8 Expanded Tech/KWS/Hoosier Stohr WF-1 of Liverato were dueling for the runner-up spot. Liverato got a great start, going from fourth to second by Turn One, while defending Champion Jaremko slotted into third.

Jaremko cranked up the pressure on Lap 12, then made his move a lap later through Turn Six. Liverato hung with Jaremko through the closing laps and when Jaremko hit lapped traffic in the chicane, Liverato shot by to take the runner-up spot. Jaremko was unphased, retaking the position into Turn 10 and holding the position to the checkered flag. Liverato’s chase for the SCCA Chicago Region Triple Crown ended with a third-place finish.

Joshua Held, of San Carlos, Calif., and Dorian Foyil, of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., finished fourth and fifth, respectively.

Roy Maxwell, of Arlinton, Texas, was the Sunoco Hard Charger, advancing seven positions during the race in his No. 55 Racing Engine Service Mystery III.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

Attached image: D Sports Racing National Champion J.R. Osborne
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 10/14/07

This story has been read 61566 time(s).

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Miserendino Takes Second Consecutive Spec Racer Ford National Championship

Sun, 14 Oct 2007 04:03:05 PST

Miserendino Takes Second Consecutive Spec Racer Ford National Championship
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan., (October 14, 2007) – Mike Miserendino, of Los Angeles, captured his second-straight Spec Racer Ford title at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T. Brian Schofield, of Lakeland, Fla., and John Black, of Olympic Valley, Calif., completed the top three.

Miserendino grabbed the lead immediately at the start in his No. 11 MBI Racing Spec Racer Ford. But, before the entire 37-car field could even cross the start-finish line at Heartland Park Topeka, several cars came together on the front stretch. Two cars made contact with the wall, leaving debris and three cars stranded on the front stretch. The race immediately went full-course yellow and after one lap of caution, race officials brought the field into pit lane to allow a faster cleanup of the front stretch.

The race resumed with a single-file restart and Miserendino promptly pulled away from the rest of the field, while Schofield, Jordon Gore, of Vero Beach, Fla., and Black commenced a fight for the final podium spots behind him. With a battle raging behind him, Miserendino cruised to his second-consecutive Spec Racer Ford National Championship, winning the 14-lap race by nearly five seconds.

“My car was really strong the first couple laps,” Miserendino said. “I really wanted to make it into Turn One first, because I knew I could pound out some real good laps and hopefully the guys behind would start to battle and allow me to get away. My car handled really well and I was able to drive consistently and hit the marks every lap and build the gap a little bit. On the restart, I was able to get another good start and to hold them off into one.”

Gore put heavy pressure on Schofield’s No. 61 PM Racing Spec Racer Ford throughout the race, but also had a mirror full of Black’s No. 17 Spec Racer Ford. On the final lap, Gore took a look to the inside of Schofield in Turn One, but couldn’t make it stick. The lost momentum allowed Black by and into third, but Gore was glued to his bumper. As the pair exited the final corner, Gore pulled alongside Black and it was a drag race to the checkered flag. Black just edged Gore and filled the final SRF podium spot. Cliff White, of Vail, Colo., completed the top five.

Nick Evans, of Hilliard, Ohio, was the Sunoco Hard Charger, advancing 12 positions in his No. 91 Jay Motorsports/BWS/Cedar Ent. Spec Racer Ford.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

Attached image: Mike Miserendino gets his second-consecutive Spec Racer Ford National Championship
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 10/14/07

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Thrash Wins First E Production SCCA National Championship

Sun, 14 Oct 2007 04:00:47 PST

Thrash Wins First E Production SCCA National Championship
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 14, 2007) – Thomas Thrash Jr., of Houston, Texas, lead all 18-laps of the E Production race to claim his first SCCA National Championship at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T. Tony Rivera, of Missouri City, Texas, and Bob Neal, of Harbor City, Calif., completed the top three.

After starting on pole and finishing second last year in E Production, Thrash took no chances in 2007, grabbing the EP lead from polesitter and defending Champion Lawrence Loshak at the start. Loshak’s No. 02 Enginetrans.com Honda Prelude remained in Thrash’s mirrors and ready to pounce as Thrash’s No. 67 Mazda/Goodyear/Lucas Racing RX7 began to get loose on lap five. Two laps later, Loshak went for the lead in Turn 10, but ran wide and through the mud, giving the lead back to Thrash.

The off-course excursion cut the right-rear tire on Loshak’s car and his gap to Thrash began to increase with each lap. On lap 15 Loshak came into the pits, handing over second place to Rivera, who was now 16.766 seconds behind Thrash. With only three laps to go, nothing could stop Thrash from taking his first-ever SCCA National Championship.

“I have to give Lawrence (Loshak) a lot of kudos,” Thrash said. “He was pushing me hard, especially through the middle part of the race. I was coming through eight and I was not getting through there fast enough, maybe there was something on the track, and he was catching me. We went down into Turn Ten and we were side-by-side and he went really deep and he went off a little bit. He must have lost a tire or something then. That was it for him, unfortunately, because we were really stuck in a tough battle. After that, I was just driving around trying to keep the pace up. This is a wonderful feeling; we have been working so hard.”

Rivera moved from fourth on the grid to third at the start in his No. 52 ESCP/Hoosier Tire Mazda RX-7 and inherited the runner-up spot with Loshak’s pit stop, equaling his best-ever Runoffs finish. Neal in the No. 08 MazdaTRIX/Performance Solutions Mazda RX7 finished third for the second year in-a-row.

Aaron Downey, of Corona Del Mar, Calif., and David Lemon, of Signal Hill, Calif., completed the top five.

Michael Sturm, of Grafton, Wis., won the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing nine positions during the race in his No. 48 Honda City/Shorewest Realty Honda Prelude Si.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

Attached image: E Production National Champion Thomas Thrash Jr.
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 10/14/07

This story has been read 61576 time(s).

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Knowles Crowned Touring 2 Champion at SCCA Runoffs

Sun, 14 Oct 2007 12:20:19 PST

Knowles Crowned Touring 2 Champion at SCCA Runoffs
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 14, 2007) – Don Knowles, of Pittsboro, N.C., won his fourth SCCA National Championship by dominating the Touring 2 race at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T. William Ziegler, of Stamford, Conn., and Edward Zabinski, of Hallandale Beach, Fla., finished second and third, respectively.

Second-starting Zabinski had a great start in his No. 79 theracingcoach.com Pontiac Solstice, but polesitter Knowles powered his No. 35 Phoenix Performance/Iracing.com/Hoosier Pontiac Solstice into the lead by Turn One. From there, it was no looking back for Knowles, who steadily pulled away from the rest of the field. He finished the 18-lap race with a 3.112-second margin of victory, after slowing down for a victory wave to his crew.

“It has been a long nine days,” Knowles said. “The weather was difficult, and then we blew the turbo in this morning’s warmup. We only had two and a half hours until the race and we had to change it. We took a turbo off a street car, replaced the race car turbo with it, performed all the checks and made sure all the hoses were on. Meanwhile, while this was going on, I was over in the corner throwing up. I really wasn’t stressed about it for the race though. I figured that on the pace lap it would either be right or it would blow up-nothing I could do about it. I got through Turn One alright and figured everything was okay, so I just focused on the race.”

It was the first Touring 2 SCCA National Championship for Knowles, who is a three-time Showroom Stock B Champion.

Zabinski held down the second spot for most of the race before traction control issues allowed him to be reeled in by Ziegler’s No. 05 Swisher/Phoenix/Hoosier Pontiac Solstice. After hounding Zabinski for several laps, Ziegler made his move into second on lap 16. Zabsinski held with him, but was unable to challenge and settled for third. It was still an impressive result for Zabinski considering his first laps in the car were on Thursday after he made the decision to switch from a Lotus to a Solstice on Tuesday.

David Schotz, of Chandler, Ariz., and Ken Dobson, of Sonoma, Calif., completed the top five. Michael Sanos, of San Lorenzo, Calif., won the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing six positions during the race in his No. 16 worksEvo.com/Hoosier Mitsubishi Evo.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

Attached image: Don Knowles is all smiles after winning the Touring 2 SCCA National Championship
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 10/14/07

This story has been read 60897 time(s).

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Spec Miata Championship Goes to Rampelberg

Sat, 13 Oct 2007 01:47:19 PST

Spec Miata Championship Goes to Rampelberg
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 13, 2007) – After finishing runner-up in last year’s Spec Miata race, the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T was sweet redemption for Brad Rampelberg of San Jose, Calif., who took the win over defending Champion Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash. Steve Ott, of Missouri City, Texas, finished third.

Polesitter Caddell took the early lead in his No. 30 Saferacer.com Mazda Miata with the No. 4 HooverSpeed Mazda Miata of Rampelberg hot on his tail. For the next two laps, the pair circulated the track glued to each other’s bumper. On lap four, heading onto the front straight, Caddell had a slight bobble, giving Rampelberg the momentum into Turn One, where he would take over the lead.

“We had a good start,” Rampelberg said. “Steve Gorriaran gave me a couple bumps and moved me ahead. I thought I was going to be able to move past Andrew, so I started to move down, but then I saw him there and gave him some room. Andrew led the first couple of laps, but there was a little river running down the apex of Turn 14 and I was squaring it off just a little bit differently than Andrew and getting on the power quicker. I think he just got off and on it once and I was able to get the run on him on the outside going into Turn One.”

Shortly thereafter, Chris James’ No. 11 Saferacer.com/SpecMiata.com Mazda Miata and Andrew Rushing’s No. 33 Applied Racing Tech Mazda Miata needed to be removed from the Turn Nine area after separate incidents brought them to a stop near the wall. The clean-up required the race to be black-flagged to allow safety vehicles on the course.

When green-flag racing resumed, 10 minutes remained on the race clock.

Rampelberg maintained the lead on the restart, with Caddell hot on his heels. The pair immediately began to pull a gap on the rest of the field. Caddell waited until the last lap to make his move, attempting to take advantage of a slide by Rampelberg in Turn Nine, but ended up mirroring his competitor in more spectacular fashion, sliding completely off the track.

“Andrew was able to go through the faster stuff a little bit faster than me, so I knew that was the one place he was going to try me,” Rampelberg said. “On the last lap, I knew I had to get through those final corners well. I got it turned in at Ten, there was mud on the track and I started sliding. I was thinking ‘this is bad news.’ I gathered it up and I saw Andrew sliding across my mirrors and ending up in the dirt and I thought ‘I got it.’

Caddell returned to the track, but had lost too much ground to catch Rampelberg, who claimed the Spec Miata National Championship. Cadell would finish 1.252 seconds behind Rampelberg in second. Ott, in the No. 26 DriverSource/APEX HyPerformance Mazda Miata finished third after starting seventh.

Steven Gorriaran, of Providence, R.I., and Matthew Reynolds, of Boerne, Texas, completed the top five. Mark Hoover, of Cameron Park, Calif., earned the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing 16 positions during the race in his No. 96 Planet Miata/boxracing.com Mazda Miata.

With the Spec Miata Championship, Rampelberg now has a chance to win a new Mazda MX-5 Cup car and Mazdaspeed parts package courtesy of Mazda, enabling him to enter the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup. Rampelburg will compete against other Mazda champions for the prize in an off-season shootout.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

Attached image: Brad Rampelberg crosses the stripe at Heartland Park Topeka to take the Spec Miata win.
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 10/13/07

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Three Rookies Score Titles on Day Two of the SCCA Runoffs

Sat, 13 Oct 2007 12:01:42 PST

Three Rookies Score Titles on Day Two of the SCCA Runoffs
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 13, 2007) – Seven more drivers were crowned 2007 SCCA National Champions Saturday in day two of the 44th SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T. After heavy rain and lightening delayed the start of the racing action an hour and 45 minutes, the eight races were run back-to-back with a 30-minute time limit to complete the competition before sundown.

Of note, three rookie drivers scored National Championship wins. Only Hans Peter and Andy McDermid were previous winners scoring Championships on the day, with Peter taking his second win of the weekend.

Race 10: Huffmaster Wins Touring 3 SCCA National Championship in First Attempt

Robert Huffmaster, of Rochester Hills, Mich., earned his first Touring 3 National Championship at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. Rick Gilhart, of Cincinnati, and Dwight Faitz, of Trenton, Ill., finished second and third, respectively.

Day two of the 2007 Runoffs was delayed an hour and 45 minutes due to severe lightening in the area. Once the race got underway, polesitter and 10-time Runoffs Champion John Heinricy led the first 10 laps and was pulling away from the field before being black flagged because his No. 32 Phoenix Performance/Hoosier Chevrolet Cobalt was over the sound limit.

As a result of the Heinricy black flag, Huffmaster inherited the lead in his No. 27 Huffmaster Crisis Response Mazda RX8. He would have to hold off a hard charging Gilhart for the final four laps of the 14-lap, 30-minute limited race. With Huffmaster leading the final lap, Gilhart was able to put the nose of his No. 1 Mazdaspeed/Mothers Polish/Manheim Mazda RX8 on the inside of Huffmaster and complete the pass in turn six.

From there, defending Champion Gilhart thought he had the race won, but between turns nine and 10 he missed a shift allowing Huffmaster to retake the lead for good. Huffmaster won his first National Championship by 1.831-seconds over Gilhart.

“At the start of the race, Heinricy got out pretty far and [Kevin] Fandozzi was holding us up out there on slicks,” Huffmaster said. “Once I got by Fandozzi, I knew Heinricy was too far out in front. Once I heard [Heinricy] was black flagged, I looked in my mirror and saw Gilhart coming pretty hard and I knew it was going to be a tough race to the finish.

“At the end of the race, the tires might have gotten a little hot and I was getting a little loose. Going into six, I had to start out wide or else I don’t think I could have gotten out of the corner fast. I figured maybe if I went inside, he’d go outside and get the run. I decided to go outside and he went inside and I didn’t give him too much room and we made a little contact. At that point, I was like ‘oh man, I just lost the Championship on the last lap of the race. I’m that guy!’

“But then, as we went through Eight, I saw he had a gearbox problem and I just dove inside. This is unbelievable. I can’t express this into words. I never expected to win.”

Driving the No. 78 Kumho/NUKABE/Subaru of O’Fallon Subaru Legacy GT, Faitz put together a consistent drive from his fifth starting position to earn his first-career Runoffs podium finish.

Bob Boileau, of Monument, Colo., earned a career-best fourth place Runoffs finish, while Wiley Timbrook, of Kingman, Ariz., finished fifth.

Don Istook, of Forth Worth, Texas, was the Sunoco Hard Charger for advancing 13 positions throughout the race. Istook started 24th and finished 11th.

Race 11: Peter Wins Formula Atlantic, Takes Second SCCA Championship of 2007

Hans Peter, of Overland Park, Kan., went two-for-two at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T, taking the Formula Atlantic Championship a day after winning a title in C Sports Racing. Tonis Kasemets, of Mundelein, Ill., and Patrick Witherspoon, of Lincoln, Neb., completed the top three.

Severe weather had delayed the start of Runoffs racing at Heartland Park Topeka this morning, and although a dry line had begun to form after the first race of the day, the Formula Atlantic field took to the course on rain tires to combat the standing water that remained in many parts of the track.

At the start, SCCA Chicago Region Triple Crown® hopeful Kasemets took the lead into Turn One, but with polesitter Peter filling his mirrors. The No. 66 Phenix Label/Hoosier/Toyota Swift 014 continued to shadow Kasemets for the next three laps, pulling alongside the No. 09 Flexovit/Parallax/Hoosier/MK/Elite/Pabst Swift 014 several times on the front and back straight before finally getting the job done in Turn Seven of lap four. When Peter returned to the front straight, he’d already opened up a 2.250-second lead on Kasemets. The two-time defending C Sports Racing Champion proceeded to cruise away from Kasemets, winning the 17-lap race by 7.379 seconds.

“At the start, I went as good as I could expect,” Peter said. “It was a drag race to Turn One and I had played it about 100 times in my mind last night. I kind of figured that Tonis was more experienced and would be able to get me on that.

“This was my first rain race in an open wheel car. I figured it would be a good idea to stay right behind him [Kasemets] and see what he was doing. I looked for a small weakness his car and I noticed that I had better grip in the slow corners and that he was a little quicker down the straightaway. I watched to see where I could close up on him and I used about the only corner that we have left on this track to pass with the changes. Tonis took the racing line, which was very nice of him, as he could have taken the blocking line, but I got alongside and pushed up the hill. From then on I got about two seconds and I just kept it there.”

After starting the race from pitlane, owing to problems starting his car, Witherspoon was more than thrilled to finish the race in third. Witherspoon also collected the Sunoco Hard Charger Award in his No. 8 Swan Racing Swift, advancing 10 positions from his grid spot of 13th to his third-place finish.

David Wilcox, of Derby, Kan., was holding down the third-place spot until he locked-up going into Turn One on the final lap. Wilcox was able to rejoin the race and finish fourth. Fabio Castellani, of Streamwood, Ill., finished fifth.

Race 12: McDermid Takes Third Championship in Wild SCCA American Sedan Race

Andy McDermid, of Grand Ledge, Mich., captured his third-career National Championship in American Sedan today, after his chief rivals crashed on the final lap at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. Bill Schepergedes, of Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif., and Jim Wheeler, of Lenexa, Kan., completed the podium.

McDermid started second in his No. 24 Felice Race Engines/Lane Auto Ford Mustang but got the jump on polesitter Jason Von Kluge’s No. 78 Mr. K’s racing Ford Mustang at the start on the damp, but drying track. McDermid held a comfortable advantage for the first handful of laps until defending Champion John Heinricy’s No. 58 TAR/Hoosier Pontiac Firebird caught him on lap nine.

Heinricy made contact with McDermid exiting turn 14 on the 10th lap, loosening both cars up and giving Tom Sloe, of Chagrin Falls, Ohio, an opportunity to pass for second in his No. 74 Hoosier Tire/Russell Automotive Ford Mustang and challenge for the lead. Sloe took the lead on lap 12 and then battled Heinricy for the next three laps. On the final tour, Heinricy got a run out of Turn Three and made a diving move into Turn Four, only to find a lapped car in front of him. Heinricy hit the car, spun and collected Sloe. McDermid skated through for the lead and the win by 0.733-second over Schepergedes, who moved all the way up from 12th on the grid in his No. 3 Chevrolet Camaro.

“We started the race and I knew that we were in good shape; we were just hoping that the track would stay wet but it didn’t,” McDermid said. “About halfway through the race I had a huge lead and it was going perfectly and everything was wonderful and then the track started drying.

“I knew that Heinricy and Sloe had slick tires on so I just tried to keep cracking off as many fastest laps as I could, but then they finally passed me. I didn’t give them any grief over it and then they went away. I found that my tires were starting to come back a little bit and I thought to myself that these guys are pounding on each other a bit so this isn’t over. On the last lap, they began swapping paint so I thought that we were looking fat here. We came through three and I thought ‘you guys are going to do it, aren’t you?’ and away they went. Everybody went to the fence so looked sideways and said, ‘see ya!’”

Wheeler, who started seventh in his No. 20 Hoosier/Rollcamera.net Pontiac Trans Am, came home with a career-best third, followed by Von Kluge, of Ann Arbor, Mich. and Brian Doll, of Crawfordsville, Ind.

Doll earned the Sunoco Hard Charger award for the race, advancing 15 positions from his 20th starting spot.

Race 13: Marlowe Captures G Production SCCA National Championship

Jay Marlowe, of Hendersonville, N.C., led every lap in the G Production race to capture his first National Championship at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. Chuck Mathis, of St. Jacob, Ill., and Woody Deatherage, of Boca Raton, Fla., completed the top three.

Marlowe started on the outside of the front row and quickly took the lead heading into Turn One. Driving the No. 21 Toyota/TRD/Goodyear/LNA Toyota Corolla, Marlowe did not waste any time separating himself from the pack. Marlowe’s early lead did not last long as the race was black flagged to retrieve Chris Himes’ No. 7 Hoosier/Carbotech/Buzz Thru Honda Civic from between Turns Two and Three. Himes made contact with the inside retaining wall on lap four.

When the race resumed on lap five, it did not take Marlowe long to open up a lead though defending GP Champion Mathis tried to catch him in his No. 54 247-parts.com/Hoosier/Ground Control Volkswagen Rabbit. But, in the end, Marlowe earned his first National Championship on his first attempt. He won by 7.049-seconds over Mathis.

“We had some troubles in qualifying, I actually broke the engine and we had to put it back together again,” Marlowe. “I didn’t know how it would run today, but I made the correct call on tires. We went on slicks, didn’t go on intermediates and it definitely was the right call. We were running a couple seconds slower than qualifying but it came down to the right tires, the right gears, and just hitting my marks every lap.”

Piloting the No. 69 Woody’s Service/Hoosier Suzuki Swift GT, Deatherage had a great drive through the field from his 12th starting position, owing to a six-position penalty in qualifying, to finish third.

Larry Gallagher, of Thornville, Ohio, was the Sunoco Hard Charger for advancing four positions throughout the race. Gallagher started eighth and finished fourth. Ken Bouquillon, of New Milford, Conn., finished fifth.

Race 14: SCCA Spec Miata Championship Goes to Rampelberg

After finishing runner-up in last year’s Spec Miata race, the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T was sweet redemption for Brad Rampelberg of San Jose, Calif., who took the win over defending Champion Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash. Steve Ott, of Missouri City, Texas, finished third.

Polesitter Caddell took the early lead in his No. 30 Saferacer.com Mazda Miata with the No. 4 HooverSpeed Mazda Miata of Rampelberg hot on his tail. For the next two laps, the pair circulated the track glued to each other’s bumper. On lap four, heading onto the front straight, Caddell had a slight bobble, giving Rampelberg the momentum into Turn One, where he would take over the lead.

“We had a good start,” Rampelberg said. “Steve Gorriaran gave me a couple bumps and moved me ahead. I thought I was going to be able to move past Andrew, so I started to move down, but then I saw him there and gave him some room. Andrew led the first couple of laps, but there was a little river running down the apex of Turn 14 and I was squaring it off just a little bit differently than Andrew and getting on the power quicker. I think he just got off and on it once and I was able to get the run on him on the outside going into Turn One.”

Shortly thereafter, Chris James’ No. 11 Saferacer.com/SpecMiata.com Mazda Miata and Andrew Rushing’s No. 33 Applied Racing Tech Mazda Miata needed to be removed from the Turn Nine area after separate incidents brought them to a stop near the wall. The clean-up required the race to be black-flagged to allow safety vehicles on the course.

When green-flag racing resumed, 10 minutes remained on the race clock.

Rampelberg maintained the lead on the restart, with Caddell hot on his heels. The pair immediately began to pull a gap on the rest of the field. Caddell waited until the last lap to make his move, attempting to take advantage of a slide by Rampelberg in Turn Nine, but ended up mirroring his competitor in more spectacular fashion, sliding completely off the track.

“Andrew was able to go through the faster stuff a little bit faster than me, so I knew that was the one place he was going to try me,” Rampelberg said. “On the last lap, I knew I had to get through those final corners well. I got it turned in at Ten, there was mud on the track and I started sliding. I was thinking ‘this is bad news.’ I gathered it up and I saw Andrew sliding across my mirrors and ending up in the dirt and I thought ‘I got it.’

Caddell returned to the track, but had lost too much ground to catch Rampelberg, who claimed the Spec Miata National Championship. Cadell would finish 1.252 seconds behind Rampelberg in second. Ott, in the No. 26 DriverSource/APEX HyPerformance Mazda Miata finished third after starting seventh.

Steven Gorriaran, of Providence, R.I., and Matthew Reynolds, of Boerne, Texas, completed the top five. Mark Hoover, of Cameron Park, Calif., earned the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing 16 positions during the race in his No. 96 Planet Miata/boxracing.com Mazda Miata.

With the Spec Miata Championship, Rampelberg now has a chance to win a new Mazda MX-5 Cup car and Mazdaspeed parts package courtesy of Mazda, enabling him to enter the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup. Rampelburg will compete against other Mazda champions for the prize in an off-season shootout.

Race 15: Shaffer Crowned Formula Continental National Champion

Chas Shaffer, of Catlett, Va., won his first-ever Formula Continental National Championship at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. John LaRue, of Muncie, Ind., finished second, while Russ Lindemann, of Longmont, Colo., was third.

Under some of the best racing conditions all day, pole winner Niki Coello powered his No. 81 pouredfoundations.com/Primus Van Diemen RF-01 to the early lead – a position he would hold until a mechanical issue forced him to retire on lap seven.

Colleo’s misfortune worked to Shaffer’s advantage, as he inherited the lead in his No. 35 Goodyear/Redbullvendors.com Van Diemen RF00. Over the next five laps, Shaffer’s mirrors were filled with LaRue’s No. 5 Goodyear/ICP/QuickSilver/OHLIN Citation Snipe FCZ. On the last lap, both Shaffer and LaRue were side-by-side, but LaRue could not complete the pass. Shaffer won by 0.471-seconds over LaRue.

“Things fell into place for me today,” Shaffer said. “With Niki [Coello] dropping out early it was a big break. That black flag hurt as I picked up a severe understeer when we went green again. I appreciate John [LaRue] racing clean. It would have been close for sure if there had been more laps because of the severe under steer. I had to lift earlier in order to get through some turns. We knew what we had and we were counting it down. I have raced against John for years and knew it would be clean. If he had gotten me, he would have gotten me. I would rather have finished second behind John than to have put us in the wall.

“This is unbelievable to me; my car was junk. We destroyed it at Watkins Glen this summer and have been rebuilding it ever since. We were still rebuilding it this past Monday here at the track. We really didn’t think that we had a chance. But, we had incentive to get it ready for today and it was a goal we achieved.”

Driving the No. 76 Rocky Mountain Tire & Auto Van Dieman RF99, Lindemann was running as high as second with three laps to go before Shaffer took the position dropping Lindemann to third, which is where he finished.

Kirk Kindsfater, of Fort Collins, Colo., drove up from his seventh starting position to finish fourth. Jose Gerado, of El Paso, Texas, recorded a career-best fifth place Runoffs finish.

Dave Weitzenhof, of Bath, Ohio, was the Sunoco Hard Charger for advancing 10 positions throughout the race. He started 16th and finished sixth.

Race 16: Flory Scores SCCA SSB National Championship in Rookie Run

Ken Flory, of Commerce Twp., Mich., captured his first Showroom Stock B title at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T in his first try. Lee Niffenegger, of Delaware, Ohio, and Toby Grahovec, of Chicago, completed the top three.

Driving the No. 8 Hoosier/Competition Graphics Pontiac Solstice, Flory started second but took the lead at the start over polesitter Michael Scornavacchi Jr.’s No. 25 Hoosier/Phoenix/Carbotech Pontiac Solstice at the start. He built up a three-second lead that evaporated when the caution came out on lap six to retrieve a disabled car.

On the restart, Niffenegger went to the front from fourth place in his No. 43 Honda/Hankook/Cobalt/DC Sports Honda Civic Si. However, the lead was short-lived, and Flory out-broke the Honda into turn four. From there, he never looked back, winning by 4.174 seconds.

“It hasn’t sunk in yet but it feels pretty good,” Flory, who is a crew member for Team Cadillac in SCCA SPEED GT competition said. “This is my first Runoffs and to be on the podium is great.

“At the start, the Honda behind me hit me hard and gave me a huge launch so I was able to get maybe a car length on Mike [Scornavacchi] into Turn One and I just continued on from there. At the restart, I was able to put in underneath Lee [Niffenegger] going into turn four and pulled away from there. Turn One and Turn Two were a mess because of the mud. At Turn Eight and Nine, I think that all three of us went off there. Someone about three laps from the end hit the apex at Eight and put a lot of mud on the track. All of us went off but all of us were able to save our cars and continued on.”

Former class Champion Grahovec had an eventful race in his No. 86 Classic BMW/Hoosier/RedLine BMW Z4, falling outside of the top five at one point before climbing back up to the third step on the podium.

Bob Schader, of Boulder, Colo., and Juston Poole, of Atlanta, completed the top five.

Richard Crites, of Bera, Calif., earned the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing nine positions in the race.

Race 17: Ave Wins GT-1 Championship in Dominant Fashion

Tony Ave, of Mooresville, N.C., collected his first SCCA National Championship by dominating the GT-1 race at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T. Defending Champion Philip Simms, of Orlando, Fla., finished second, followed by Michael Lewis, of Poway, Calif., in third.

With the sun hanging low in the sky, the green flag waved on the GT-1 race at Heartland Park Topeka. Defending GT-1 National Champion Simms immediately jumped into the lead in his No. 11 Goodyear/Simms Motorsports Jaguar XKR, but polesitter Ave retook the lead in Turn Three. Simms managed to keep pace with Ave’s No. 44 Bodin Masonry/Pro-Motor/Goodyear Chevrolet Corvette for several corners afterwards, but when the two crossed the stripe to commence lap two, Ave had already pulled out nearly two seconds on Simms. Ave continued to effortlessly extend his gap to Simms throughout the race, crossing the finish line with a 9.835-second margin of victory at the checkered flag.

“It feel’s great,” Ave said. “I must have made him [Phil] spend some more money this year or something, because he was pretty fast down the straightaway all week.

“I was really worried about the start, because Phil’s good at the start. He definitely beat us to the first corner. Sometimes you can try a desperation move, but I knew it was probably going to be between one of us. I did not think it was too smart to get carried away. But then, I had a bit of a run going into three and slid inside of him there. I locked the brakes up and we almost hit. If he hadn’t given me the room, we would have touched right there. He avoided the wreck I almost started. Then we kind of got going and my car was better than his and I was able to pull away. My car seemed really good. However, when the sun went down, there was a big difference. I started sliding all over. But, we had the best car today. We had a great time.”

Finishing second, Simms has yet to finish outside the top-three in his four Runoffs starts.

Holding down third place nearly the entire race, Lewis lost the final podium spot on the penultimate lap to the No. 49 BGR Inc. Chevrolet Corvette of William Grey. Lewis reclaimed third place in the final corner of the race, when Grey’s Corvette spun in Turn 14 and became stuck in the wet grass.

Simon Gregg, of Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., and Bryan Long, of Peoria, Ill., completed the top five. Bernard Bupp Jr., of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., earned the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing eight positions during the race at the wheel of his No. 8 Hamilton Safe & Security Systems Chevrolet Camaro.

Results, by race, from Saturday’s SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka with finishing position, starting position, driver, hometown, car, laps complete and time behind winner. All races were limited to 30 minutes due to a delay for inclement weather.

Race 10, Touring 3
1, 3, Robert Huffmaster, Rochester Hills, MI, Mazda RX8, 14
2, 4, Richard Gilhart, Cincinnati, OH, Mazda RX8, 14, -1.831
3, 5, Dwight Faitz Jr., Trenton, IL, Subaru Legacy GT, 14, -9.72
4, 11, Robert Boileau III, Monument, CO, Honda S2000, 14, -10.968
5, 8, Wiley Timbrook, Kingman, AZ, Honda S2000, 14, -32.383
6, 12, Chad Gilsinger, Marysville, OH, Honda S2000, 14, -33.455
7, 6, Dennis Holloway, Huntington Beach, CA, Mazda RX8, 14, -34.739
8, 7, Scott Shelton, Burbank, CA, Mazda RX8, 14, -39.317
9, 9, Jim Holloway, Huntington Beach, CA, Mazda RX8, 14, -39.989
10, 13, Rob Lay, Southlake, TX, Mazda RX8, 14, -58.59
11, 24, Don Istook, Fort Worth, TX, AUDI TT, 14, -1:11.727
12, 19, David Vodden, Willows, CA, Honda S2000, 14, -1:21.344
13, 25, Terry Rohr, Cave Creek, AZ, Subaru WRX TR, 14, -1:23.352
14, 18, John Costello, Wilkes Barre, PA, Honda S2000, 14, -1:46.397
15, 16, Richard Dickey, Granbury, TX, Mazda RX8, 14, -1:48.376
16, 26, Brent Ostendorff, Greer, SC, Mazda Mazdaspeed Miata, 14, -1:48.905
17, 14, Scotty B White, Puyallup, WA, Ford Mustang, 14, -1:49.619
18, 10, Joel Lipperini, Pittston, PA, Honda S2000, 13, -1 Lap
19, 27, Michael Ference III, San Antonio, TX, Honda S2000, 13, -34.352
20, 20, Hugh Nguyen, Houston, TX, Mazda Miata, 13, -45.02
21, 4, Colin Cohen, Southlake, TX, Audi TT, 13, -47.086
22, 2, Kevin Fandozzi, Birmingham, MI, Chevrolet Cobalt SC, 13, -1:03.177
23, 21, Rob Piekarczyk, Parma, OH, Mazda RX8, 13, -1:18.829
24, 23, Lynne Griffiths, Menlo Park, CA, Mazda RX8, 13, -1:23.767
25, 17, Jerold Lowe, Puyallup, WA, Crysler Crossfire, 12, -2 Laps
26, 22, Michael Kramer, Lewisburg, TN, Saturn ION RedLine, 10, -4 Laps
DNF, 15, Shannon McMasters, Granbury, TX, Mazda RX8, 2, -12 Laps
DNS, 29, Kristian Skavnes, Sparta, NJ, Honda S2000, 0, --
DQ, 1, John Heinricy, Royal Oak, MI, Chevrolet Cobalt, 10, Sound
Average race speed: 70.223 mph
Fastest race lap: 2:03.149, Dwight Faitz Jr.
Lap leaders: Laps 1-2, Kevin Fandozzi; laps 3-14, Robert Huffmaster

Race 11, Formula Atlantic
1, 1, Hans Peter, Overland Park, KS, Swift 14, 17
2, 2, Tonis Kasemets, Mundelein, IL, Swift 14, 17, -7.379
3, 13, John Witherspoon, Omaha, Ne, Swift , 17, -57.061
4, 6, David Wilcox, Derby, KS, Swift DB4, 17, -1:17.243
5, 7, Fabio Castellani, Streamwood, IL, Swift 14, 17, -1:19.882
6, 8, Jacek Mucha, Laval, QC, Ralt 41, 17, -1:36.919
7, 5, Daniel Selznick, Phoenix, AZ, Swift 14, 16, -1 Lap
8, 11, William Goldkind, Holbrook, NY, Ralt Toyota RT-41, 16, -2.378
9, 10, Rodrigo Barbosa, Asheville, NC, Ralt RT-4, 16, -1:01.725
10, 16, Mark Felsen, Denver, CO, STAR Mazda PRO FM, 16, -1:14.859
11, 9, Mark Ishikawa, Los Gatos, CA, Swift 14, 15, -2 Laps
12, 14, Jeffrey Walker, Wheaton, IL, Swift 14, 15, -5.325
13, 12, Michael Mallinen, Liberty Lake, WA, Ralt RT-41, 10, -7 Laps
DNF, 3, David Grant, Germantown, TN, Swift 14, 6, -11 Laps
DNF, 4, Keith Grant, Germantown, TN, Swift 014a, 0, -17 Laps
Average race speed: 84.470 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:44.747, Hans Peter
Lap leaders: Laps 1-3, Tonis Kasemets; laps 4-17, Hans Peter

Race 12, American Sedan
1, 2, Andrew McDermid, Grand Ledge, MI, Ford Mustang, 16, --
2, 12, Bill Schepergerdes, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, Chevrolet Camaro, 16, -0.733
3, 7, Jim Wheeler, Lenexa, KS, Pontiac Trans Am, 16, -16.766
4, 1, Jason Von Kluge, Ann Arbor, MI, Ford Mustang, 16, -20.385
5, 20, Brian Doll, CrawFordsville, IN, Pontiac Firebird, 16, -26.106
6, 5, Michael Lavigne, Hooksett, NH, Ford Mustang, 16, -29.453
7, 15, Richard Jones, Scio, OH, Ford Mustang, 16, -30.698
8, 21, Stephen Hynes, White Lake, MI, Ford Mustang, 16, -35.548
9, 17, William Tucker, Blue Springs, MO, Chevrolet Camaro, 16, -53.31
10, 16, Thomas Toth, Sugar Grove, IL, Chevrolet Camaro, 16, -1:40.631
11, 18, John Lechner, North Olmsted, OH, Ford Mustang, 16, -1:52.757
12, 19, Ronald LeBaron Sr., Gainesville, VA, Chevrolet Camaro, 16, -2:01.548
13, 3, Tom Sloe, Chagrin Falls, OH, Ford Mustang, 15, -1 Lap
14, 4, John Heinricy, Royal Oak, MI, Pontiac Firebird, 15, -0.689
15, 10, Monte Cowles, Dumfries, VA, Ford Mustang, 15, -41.759
16, 8, John Blizzard, Hillsboro, OR, Chevrolet Camaro, 15, -55.814
17, 14, Thomas Himes, Slidell, LA, Ford Mustang, 15, -1:25.134
18, 27, J. Scott Lane, Cortland, OH, Ford Mustang, 15, -2:02.986
19, 13, Geoffrey Kopp, Gardner, KS, Chevrolet Camaro, 15, -2:24.875
20, 22, Eric Ritchie, Katy, TX, Chevrolet Camaro, 15, -2:27.305
21, 24, Fred Hetherwick, Jackson, MI, Ford Mustang, 15, -3:08.516
22, 27, Jonathan Ricker, Danville, KY, Ford Mustang, 15, -3:17.142
23, 25, Carey Grant, Cordova, TN, Chevrolet Camaro, 15, -4:11.000
24, 11, Tom Ellis, Sunrise, FL, Ford Mustang, 14, -2 Laps
25, 23, Scott Davie, Little Rock, AR, Ford Mustang, 14, -1:46.710
26, 31, Charles Dawson, Sebring, FL, Chevrolet Camaro, 14, -2:12.085
27, 28, Harvey West, Owatonna, MN, Ford Mustang, 8, -8 Laps
DNF, 6, Philip Smith, New Albany, OH, Chevrolet Camaro, 6, -10 Laps
DNF, 9, Kyle Watkins, Broomfield, CO, Ford Mustang, 2, -14 Laps
Average race speed: 75.796 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:52.788, John Heinricy
Lap leaders: Laps 1-11, Andy McDermid; laps 12-15, Tom Sloe; lap 16, Andy McDermid

Race 13, G Production
1, 2, Jay Marlowe, Hendersonville, NC, Toyota Corolla, 11
2, 1, Chuck Mathis, Saint Jacob, IL, Volkswagen Rabbit, 11, -7.049
3, 12, Andy Deatherage, Boca Raton, FL, Suzuki Swift GT, 11, -15.878
4, 8, Larry Gallagher, Thornville, OH, Nissan 510, 11, -26.426
5, 4, Kenneth Bouquillon, New MilFord, CT, Nissan 510, 11, -29.409
6, 9, Gregory Gauper, Hubertus, WI, Honda Civic, 11, -32.541
7, 6, Chris Albin, Maryland Heights, MO, Volkswagen Golf, 11, -33.271
8, 5, Bill Wessel, Madison, WI, Nissan SPL311, 11, -33.829
9, 7, Tim Pitts, Louisville, TN, Nissan PL510, 11, -42.741
10, 3, Kent Prather, Wakarusa, KS, MG A, 11, -45.641
11, 11, Keith Church, Greensboro, NC, Toyota Corolla, 11, -53.97
12, 10, Jonathan Goodale, Conifer, CO, Suzuki Swift GTI, 11, -1:00.961
13, 15, David Hammer, North East, PA, Volkswagen Rabbit, 11, -1:15.374
14, 16, Eric Heczko, Longmont, CO, Nissan 510, 11, -1:59.419
15, 14, Steve Nagle, Westmont, IL, Volkswagen Scirocco, 8, -3 Laps
DNF, 13, Christopher Himes, Reynoldsburg, OH, Honda Civic, 3, -8 Laps
DNS, 17, Gregory Lund, Dallas, TX, Honda CRXsi, 0, --
Average race speed: 53.047 mph, includes race stoppage
Fastest race lap: 1:50.531, Jay Marlowe
Lap leaders: Laps 1-11, Jay Marlowe

Race 14, Spec Miata
1, 2, Brad Rampelberg, San Jose, CA, Mazda Miata, 12, --
2, 1, Andrew Caddell, Graham, WA, Mazda Miata, 12, -1.252
3, 7, Steven Ott, Missouri City, TX, Mazda Miata, 12, -6.188
4, 4, Steven Gorriaran, Providence, RI, Mazda Miata, 12, -10.64
5, 9, Matthew Reynolds, Boerne, TX, Mazda Miata, 12, -11.981
6, 10, Mark Pombo, Berkeley Lake, GA, Mazda Miata, 12, -12.371
7, 6, Sammy Valafar, Las Vegas, NV, Mazda Miata, 12, -12.958
8, 13, Karl Zimmermann, Austin, TX, Mazda Miata, 12, -13.444
9, 14, John Phillips III, Sealy, TX, Mazda Miata, 12, -20.482
10, 16, Richard Wiese, Chesterfield, MO, Mazda Miata, 12, -21.048
11, 20, Samuel Henry, Republic, MO, Mazda Miata, 12, -21.415
12, 11, Jason Ott, Thornton, CO, Mazda Miata, 12, -24.025
13, 23, Aaron McSpadden, Austin, TX, Mazda Miata, 12, -24.162
14, 38, Bob Stretch, Arlington, TX, Mazda Miata, 12, -26.621
15, 15, Tony Rivera, Missouri City, TX, Mazda Miata, 12, -26.735
16, 32, Marc Hoover, Cameron Park, CA, Mazda Miata, 12, -31.605
17, 30, Jonathan Boxwell, Baltimore, MD, Mazda Miata, 12, -32.771
18, 24, Cole Dahn, Goodyear, AZ, Mazda Miata, 12, -33.038
19, 26, Michael Collins, Mount Airy, MD, Mazda Miata, 12, -34.065
20, 22, Christopher Prey, Oshkosh, WI, Mazda Miata, 12, -36.101
21, 5, Nick Herda, Las Vegas, NV, Mazda Miata, 12, -36.261
22, 21, Mathew Pombo, Winston Salem, NC, Mazda Miata, 12, -37.879
23, 17, Steve Welk, Sheboygan Fls, WI, Mazda Miata, 12, -38.156
24, 31, Jimmy Underhill, Greenwood Vlg, CO, Mazda Miata, 12, -42.208
25, 34, Phillip Mather, Adrian, MI, Mazda Miata, 12, -43.837
26, 28, Thomas Kraft, Des Moines, IA, Mazda Miata, 12, -53.356
27, 35, Mark Quevli, Westminster, CO, Mazda Miata, 12, -55.279
28, 8, Blake Clements, Houston, TX, Mazda Miata, 12, -56.538
29, 33, Jacques Dresang, Hartford, WI, Mazda Miata, 12, -1:00.877
30, 12, Jesse Combs, Spring, TX, Mazda Miata, 12, -1:21.464
31, 18, Charles James, Joplin, MO, Mazda Miata, 11, -1 Lap
32, 3, Eric Foss, Braselton, GA, Mazda Miata, 10, -2 Laps
33, 19, Michael Asselta, Overland Park, KS, Mazda Miata, 9, -3 Laps
DNF, 29, Stephen Johnson, Leawood, KS, Mazda Miata, 5, -7 Laps
DNF, 25, Andrew Rushing, Austin, TX, Mazda Miata, 2, -10 Laps
DNF, 37, Chris James, Joplin, MO, Mazda Miata, 2, -1.015
Average race speed: 57.502 mph, includes race stoppage
Fastest race lap: 1:53.702, Andrew Caddell
Lap leaders: Laps 1-2, Andrew Caddell; laps 3-12, Brad Rampelberg

Race 15, Formula Continental
1, 2, Chas Shaffer, Catlett, VA, Van Diemen RF00, 13
2, 4, John LaRue, Muncie, IN, Citation Snipe FCZ, 13, -0.471
3, 3, Russ Lindemann, Longmont, CO, Van Diemen RF99, 13, -2.35
4, 7, Kirk Kindsfater, Fort Collins, CO, Van Diemen RF 00, 13, -8.523
5, 12, Jose Gerardo, El Paso, TX, Van Diemen RF-00, 13, -9.017
6, 16, Dave Weitzenhof, Bath, OH, Citation 95SF, 13, -10.436
7, 11, Brian Belardi, Grafton, WI, Van Diemen RF00, 13, -25.986
8, 17, Mark Hutchison, New Berlin, WI, Mygale FC99, 13, -30.682
9, 8, Peter LeSueur, Saint Charles, IL, Van Diemen RF02, 13, -31.282
10, 10, Charles Moran, Oakton, VA, Crossle 71F, 13, -37.369
11, 14, Jim Victor, Davenport, IA, Van Diemen RF 05, 13, -37.61
12, 18, William Johnson, Austin, TX, Van Diemen RF00, 13, -38.149
13, 19, Keith Williams, Overland Park, KS, Citation 95SF, 13, -1:03.087
14, 22, Allen Dale, Manhattan, KS, Van Diemen RF95, 13, -1:13.041
15, 21, Thomas Martin, Melissa, TX, Van Diemen RF-01-2, 13, -1:39.120
16, 13, Mark Ludwig, North Richland Hills, TX, Van Diemen RF99, 8, -5 Laps
17, 1, Niki Coello, East Troy, WI, Van Diemen RF -01, 6, -7 Laps
DNF, 15, Zachary Craigo, Lone Tree, CO, Van Diemen RF01, 5, -8 Laps
DNF, 5, Brian Tomasi, Elgin, IL, Van Diemen RF-01, 0, -13 Laps
DNF, 6, Robert Caldwell, Terre Haute, IN, Van Diemen RF00, 0, -0.215
DNF, 9, Rossella Manfrinato, Alpharetta, GA, Tatuus RC97, 0, -0.445
DNF, 20, Douglas Rocco, Sandisfield, MA, Van Diemen RF94, 0, --
Average race speed: 62.646 mph, includes race stoppage
Fastest race lap: 1:34.118, Niki Coello
Lap leaders: Laps 1-6, Niki Coello; laps 7-13, Chas Shaffer

Race 16, Showroom Stock B
1, 2, Kenneth Flory, Commerce Township, MI, Pontiac Solstice, 15
2, 5, Lee Niffenegger, Delaware, OH, Honda Civic Si, 15, -4.174
3, 3, Toby Grahovec, Chicago, IL, BMW Z4, 15, -6.209
4, 4, Robert Schader, Boulder, CO, Honda Civic SI, 15, -17.174
5, 6, Juston Poole, Atlanta, GA, Honda Civic si, 15, -19.39
6, 12, Chase Lin, Lewis Center, OH, Honda Civic, 15, -26.657
7, 10, Alan Yankielun, Pittstown, NJ, Pontiac Solstice, 15, -29.272
8, 14, Hugh Nguyen, Houston, TX, BMW Z4, 15, -31.67
9, 13, Michael Pettiford, Louisville, CO, Chevrolet Camaro V6, 15, -32.721
10, 11, Jonathan Start, Caledonia, MI, Mini Cooper S, 15, -32.936
11, 15, Ralph Porter, Kokomo, IN, Mini coopers, 15, -38.848
12, 1, Michael Scornavacchi Jr., Manheim, PA, Pontiac Solstice, 15, -39.919
13, 21, Jill Urso, Orlando, FL, Mini Cooper S, 15, -46.534
14, 23, Richard Crites, Brea, CA, Honda Civic si, 15, -47.267
15, 19, Bob Demers, Dover, NH, Pontiac Solstice, 15, -50.261
16, 16, Kristina Etherington, Sammamish, WA, Mazda Miata, 15, -57.274
17, 25, Ross Andrews, Greenwood Village, CO, Chevrolet Camaro, 15, -1:05.216
18, 18, Robbie Davis, Summerville, SC, Mini Cooper S, 15, -1:13.336
19, 24, Peter Davis, Dallas, TX, Mazda Miata, 15, -1:14.003
20, 28, James Place, San Antonio, TX, Mini Cooper S, 15, -1:14.700
21, 26, Stan Czacki, Elephant Butte, NM, Pontiac Solstice ZOK, 15, -1:24.494
22, 20, Steven Zink, Fall City, WA, Mazda Miata, 15, -1:27.360
23, 29, Keith Jones, Lorain, OH, Mazda Miata, 15, -1:57.424
24, 8, Bill Haggerty, Escondido, Ca, Pontiac Solstice, 13, -2 Laps
25, 17, Jack Tippens, Davis, IL, BMW Z4 2.5, 13, -6.036
26, 7, Charles Guest, Greensboro, NC, Pontiac Solstice, 9, -6 Laps
DNF, 22, Russell McHugh, Sunnyvale, CA, Mazda Miata, 2, -13 Laps
DNF, 9, Stephen Fondakowski, Pelham, NH, Toyota Celica GTS, 1, -14 Laps
Average race speed: 74.744 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:54.130, Ken Flory
Lap leaders: Laps 1-15, Ken Flory

Race 17, GT-1
1, 1, Tony Ave, Mooresville, NC, Chevrolet Corvette, 18
2, 2, Philip Simms, Orlando, FL, Jaguar XKR, 18, -9.835
3, 3, Michael Lewis, Poway, CA, Jaguar XKR, 18, -35.844
4, 5, Simon Gregg, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, Chevrolet Corvette, 18, -56.348
5, 12, Bryan Long, Peoria, IL, Chevrolet Camaro, 18, -1:08.269
6, 14, Bernard Bupp Jr., Fort Lauderdale, FL, Chevrolet Camaro, 18, -1:14.236
7, 7, Glen Jung, Osteen, FL, Mazda RX7, 18, -1:18.795
8, 10, Raymond Irwin, Topeka, KS, Chevrolet Corvette, 18, -1:31.536
9, 11, David Fershtand, Fort Worth, TX, Ford Mustang, 18, -1:32.437
10, 16, Bud Thurston, Apache Junction, AZ, Chevrolet Corvette, 18, -1:32.741
11, 15, James Bradley, Gaston, IN, Chevrolet Corvette, 17, -1 Lap
12, 17, Carl Janin, Dallas, TX, Chevrolet Camaro, 17, -13.279
13, 18, Buddy Cisar III, Bellevue, NE, Chevrolet Camaro, 17, -56.162
14, 4, William Gray, Springdale, AR, Chevrolet Corvette, 16, -2 Laps
DNF, 13, Jordan Bupp, Fort Lauderdale, FL, Chevrolet Corvette, 8, -10 Laps
DNF, 8, Shawn Gray, Fayetteville, AR, Chevrolet Camaro, 1, -17 Laps
DNF, 6, Amy Ruman, Kent, OH, Chevrolet Corvette, 0, -18 Laps
Average race speed: 95.614 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:32.169, Tony Ave
Lap leaders: Laps 1-18, Tony Ave

Attached image: Formula Continental winner Charles Shaffer, of Catlett, Va.
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 10/13/07

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Ave Wins GT-1 Championship in Dominant Fashion

Sat, 13 Oct 2007 11:57:10 PST

Ave Wins GT-1 Championship in Dominant Fashion
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 13, 2007) – Tony Ave, of Mooresville, N.C., collected his first SCCA National Championship by dominating the GT-1 race at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T. Defending Champion Philip Simms, of Orlando, Fla., finished second, followed by Michael Lewis, of Poway, Calif., in third.

With the sun hanging low in the sky, the green flag waved on the GT-1 race at Heartland Park Topeka. Defending GT-1 National Champion Simms immediately jumped into the lead in his No. 11 Goodyear/Simms Motorsports Jaguar XKR, but polesitter Ave retook the lead in Turn Three. Simms managed to keep pace with Ave’s No. 44 Bodin Masonry/Pro-Motor/Goodyear Chevrolet Corvette for several corners afterwards, but when the two crossed the stripe to commence lap two, Ave had already pulled out nearly two seconds on Simms. Ave continued to effortlessly extend his gap to Simms throughout the race, crossing the finish line with a 9.835-second margin of victory at the checkered flag.

“It feel’s great,” Ave said. “I must have made him [Phil] spend some more money this year or something, because he was pretty fast down the straightaway all week.

“I was really worried about the start, because Phil’s good at the start. He definitely beat us to the first corner. Sometimes you can try a desperation move, but I knew it was probably going to be between one of us. I did not think it was too smart to get carried away. But then, I had a bit of a run going into three and slid inside of him there. I locked the brakes up and we almost hit. If he hadn’t given me the room, we would have touched right there. He avoided the wreck I almost started. Then we kind of got going and my car was better than his and I was able to pull away. My car seemed really good. However, when the sun went down, there was a big difference. I started sliding all over. But, we had the best car today. We had a great time.”

Finishing second, Simms has yet to finish outside the top-three in his four Runoffs starts.

Holding down third place nearly the entire race, Lewis lost the final podium spot on the penultimate lap to the No. 49 BGR Inc. Chevrolet Corvette of William Grey. Lewis reclaimed third place in the final corner of the race, when Grey’s Corvette spun in Turn 14 and became stuck in the wet grass.

Simon Gregg, of Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., and Bryan Long, of Peoria, Ill., completed the top five. Bernard Bupp Jr., of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., earned the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing eight positions during the race at the wheel of his No. 8 Hamilton Safe & Security Systems Chevrolet Camaro.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

Attached image: Tony Ave was unstoppable on his way to the GT-1 National Championship
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 10/13/07

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Flory Scores SCCA SSB National Championship in Rookie Run

Sat, 13 Oct 2007 11:53:58 PST

Flory Scores SCCA SSB National Championship in Rookie Run
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Oct. 13, 2007) – Ken Flory, of Commerce Twp., Mich., captured his first Showroom Stock B title at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T in his first try. Lee Niffenegger, of Delaware, Ohio, and Toby Grahovec, of Chicago, completed the top three.

Driving the No. 8 Hoosier/Competition Graphics Pontiac Solstice, Flory started second but took the lead at the start over polesitter Michael Scornavacchi Jr.’s No. 25 Hoosier/Phoenix/Carbotech Pontiac Solstice at the start. He built up a three-second lead that evaporated when the caution came out on lap six to retrieve a disabled car.

On the restart, Niffenegger went to the front from fourth place in his No. 43 Honda/Hankook/Cobalt/DC Sports Honda Civic Si. However, the lead was short-lived, and Flory out-broke the Honda into turn four. From there, he never looked back, winning by 4.174 seconds.

“It hasn’t sunk in yet but it feels pretty good,” Flory, who is a crew member for Team Cadillac in SCCA SPEED GT competition said. “This is my first Runoffs and to be on the podium is great.

“At the start, the Honda behind me hit me hard and gave me a huge launch so I was able to get maybe a car length on Mike [Scornavacchi] into Turn One and I just continued on from there. At the restart, I was able to put in underneath Lee [Niffenegger] going into turn four and pulled away from there. Turn One and Turn Two were a mess because of the mud. At Turn Eight and Nine, I think that all three of us went off there. Someone about three laps from the end hit the apex at Eight and put a lot of mud on the track. All of us went off but all of us were able to save our cars and continued on.”

Former class Champion Grahovec had an eventful race in his No. 86 Classic BMW/Hoosier/RedLine BMW Z4, falling outside of the top five at one point before climbing back up to the third step on the podium.

Bob Schader, of Boulder, Colo., and Juston Poole, of Atlanta, completed the top five.

Richard Crites, of Bera, Calif., earned the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing nine positions in the race.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

Attached: Image of Ken Flory taking the checkered flag at the Runoffs. Image by John Steflik.

Posted On 10/13/07

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McDermid Takes Third Championship in Wild SCCA American Sedan Race

Sat, 13 Oct 2007 11:50:09 PST

McDermid Takes Third Championship in Wild SCCA American Sedan Race
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Oct. 13, 2007) – Andy McDermid, of Grand Ledge, Mich., captured his third-career National Championship in American Sedan today, after his chief rivals crashed on the final lap at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. Bill Schepergedes, of Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif., and Jim Wheeler, of Lenexa, Kan., completed the podium.

McDermid started second in his No. 24 Felice Race Engines/Lane Auto Ford Mustang but got the jump on polesitter Jason Von Kluge’s No. 78 Mr. K’s racing Ford Mustang at the start on the damp, but drying track. McDermid held a comfortable advantage for the first handful of laps until defending Champion John Heinricy’s No. 58 TAR/Hoosier Pontiac Firebird caught him on lap nine.

Heinricy made contact with McDermid exiting turn 14 on the 10th lap, loosening both cars up and giving Tom Sloe, of Chagrin Falls, Ohio, an opportunity to pass for second in his No. 74 Hoosier Tire/Russell Automotive Ford Mustang and challenge for the lead. Sloe took the lead on lap 12 and then battled Heinricy for the next three laps. On the final tour, Heinricy got a run out of Turn Three and made a diving move into Turn Four, only to find a lapped car in front of him. Heinricy hit the car, spun and collected Sloe. McDermid skated through for the lead and the win by 0.733-second over Schepergedes, who moved all the way up from 12th on the grid in his No. 3 Chevrolet Camaro.

“We started the race and I knew that we were in good shape; we were just hoping that the track would stay wet but it didn’t,” McDermid said. “About halfway through the race I had a huge lead and it was going perfectly and everything was wonderful and then the track started drying.

“I knew that Heinricy and Sloe had slick tires on so I just tried to keep cracking off as many fastest laps as I could, but then they finally passed me. I didn’t give them any grief over it and then they went away. I found that my tires were starting to come back a little bit and I thought to myself that these guys are pounding on each other a bit so this isn’t over. On the last lap, they began swapping paint so I thought that we were looking fat here. We came through three and I thought ‘you guys are going to do it, aren’t you?’ and away they went. Everybody went to the fence so looked sideways and said, ‘see ya!’”

Wheeler, who started seventh in his No. 20 Hoosier/Rollcamera.net Pontiac Trans Am, came home with a career-best third, followed by Von Kluge, of Ann Arbor, Mich. and Brian Doll, of Crawfordsville, Ind.

Doll earned the Sunoco Hard Charger award for the race, advancing 15 positions from his 20th starting spot.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

Attached: Image of winner Andy McDermid. Photo by John Steflik

Posted On 10/13/07

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Peter Wins Formula Atlantic, Takes Second SCCA Championship of 2007

Sat, 13 Oct 2007 11:47:55 PST

Peter Wins Formula Atlantic, Takes Second SCCA Championship of 2007
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan., (October 13, 2007) – Hans Peter, of Overland Park, Kan., went two-for-two at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T, taking the Formula Atlantic Championship a day after winning a title in C Sports Racing. Tonis Kasemets, of Mundelein, Ill., and Patrick Witherspoon, of Lincoln, Neb., completed the top three.

Severe weather had delayed the start of Runoffs racing at Heartland Park Topeka this morning, and although a dry line had begun to form after the first race of the day, the Formula Atlantic field took to the course on rain tires to combat the standing water that remained in many parts of the track.

At the start, SCCA Chicago Region Triple Crown® hopeful Kasemets took the lead into Turn One, but with polesitter Peter filling his mirrors. The No. 66 Phenix Label/Hoosier/Toyota Swift 014 continued to shadow Kasemets for the next three laps, pulling alongside the No. 09 Flexovit/Parallax/Hoosier/MK/Elite/Pabst Swift 014 several times on the front and back straight before finally getting the job done in Turn Seven of lap four. When Peter returned to the front straight, he’d already opened up a 2.250-second lead on Kasemets. The two-time defending C Sports Racing Champion proceeded to cruise away from Kasemets, winning the 17-lap race by 7.379 seconds.

“At the start, I went as good as I could expect,” Peter said. “It was a drag race to Turn One and I had played it about 100 times in my mind last night. I kind of figured that Tonis was more experienced and would be able to get me on that.

“This was my first rain race in an open wheel car. I figured it would be a good idea to stay right behind him [Kasemets] and see what he was doing. I looked for a small weakness his car and I noticed that I had better grip in the slow corners and that he was a little quicker down the straightaway. I watched to see where I could close up on him and I used about the only corner that we have left on this track to pass with the changes. Tonis took the racing line, which was very nice of him, as he could have taken the blocking line, but I got alongside and pushed up the hill. From then on I got about two seconds and I just kept it there.”

After starting the race from pitlane, owing to problems starting his car, Witherspoon was more than thrilled to finish the race in third. Witherspoon also collected the Sunoco Hard Charger Award in his No. 8 Swan Racing Swift, advancing 10 positions from his grid spot of 13th to his third-place finish.

David Wilcox, of Derby, Kan., was holding down the third-place spot until he locked-up going into Turn One on the final lap. Wilcox was able to rejoin the race and finish fourth. Fabio Castellani, of Streamwood, Ill., finished fifth.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

Attached image: Hans Peter takes a soggy Formula Atlantic win at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs.
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 10/13/07

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Matt Richmond Returns to BimmerWorld for Laguna Seca SPEED Touring Car Finale

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 10:26:38 PST

Matt Richmond Returns to BimmerWorld for Laguna Seca SPEED Touring Car Finale
By Bimmerworld Media Services

BimmerWorld fixture Matt Richmond prepares to join Clay and Thomas behind the wheel of his familiar #37 BimmerWorld BMW in Monterey.

Dublin, VA (10/12/07) -- BimmerWorld owner/driver James Clay was proud to announce the return of a familiar name to the BimmerWorld fold for the season-ending race at Laguna Seca in Monterey, California, October 19th-21st.

Matt Richmond, back in his familiar #37 BimmerWorld BMW, is set to resume his World Challenge activities paired with his good friends James Clay and Seth Thomas. Richmond, a former winner of the B&M Holeshot Award and the Hard Charger Award, knows exactly what’s required to succeed in the highly competitive Touring Car series.

Richmond can barely wait to catch his flight out to the west coast. “Man, I’m fired up! I’ve been ready to drive again for BimmerWorld for a long time. When James called and asked if I was available, I told my wife and she said to do it without any hesitation. That’s always a good sign.”

While he’s been out of the saddle for a while, Richmond’s entering into the event with realistic expectations. “I’m going with the goal of having fun. The new E90’s are awesome--if i can relax and get in the groove, the speed will come naturally. If I can get settled quickly, I really feel like I can run with my team mates and challenge for a win.”

Matt was a fixture in World Challenge with BimmerWorld, but where has he been hiding of late? “I opened two businesses last year and have had no time race other than at my indoor kart track, Grand Prix Greensboro!” Despite his absence from the team, he’s kept in contact with James Clay as the BimmerWorld-built E90’s have progressed to the front of the field. “I am proud of these guys for keeping their chin up throughout the last couple of seasons. Mid-Ohio was a long time coming, but was also long overdue and just scratched at the surface of what they’re capable of doing.”

With the 2008 season coming quickly, has Matt thought about returning for another assault on the championship? “If everything goes according to plan, I will be there. We’re working hard to secure a great sponsor to join us.”

Joey Hand, pilot of the Mid-Ohio winning #37 BimmerWorld BMW, has been forced to step aside as the time commitments to his American Le Mans program have proven too much to allow him to continue racing in both the ALMS and in SPEED Touring Car on the same weekend.

“It’s been really hard to run back and forth between both series with the sessions so tightly packed. The Panoz program is a full season commitment, and unless I can give 100% of my focus to whatever I do, I didn’t want to risk not being able to give PTG or BimmerWorld everything I have. It’s sad for me because I love the E90’s BimmerWorld have built--we all saw what their BMW is capable of now; I’ll be cheering for Seth, James, and Matt to fill the podium at Laguna!”

The BimmerWorld team is proudly supported by: BMW USA, Diffsonline, Moton, Performance Friction, BBS, Bimmerforums.com, Ground Control, JB Racing, Rogue Engineering, Silkolene, and Sunbelt Performance Engines.

Matt Richmond dons his familiar BimmerWorld blue fire suit for a return to World Challenge Touring Car. (Photo: Jimmy Sykes)

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Posted On 10/12/07

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Aquilante Storms to Touring 1 Win, First SCCA National Championship

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 10:19:14 PST

Aquilante Storms to Touring 1 Win, First SCCA National Championship
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 12, 2007) – Andrew Aquilante, of Chester Springs, Pa., earned his first-ever SCCA National Championship with a win in Touring 1 at the 44th SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. John Buttermore, of Pontiac, Mich., and Mike McGinley, of Overland Park, Kan., completed the top three.

It was the perfect end to a perfect Runoffs for 20 year-old Aquilante, who led every qualifying session, eventually taking the pole by nearly half a second, then leading the 18-lap race from start to finish to take his first-ever SCCA National Championship. Completing all 18-laps without incident, Aquilante’s No. 36 Chevrolet Corvette crossed the finish line 7.110 seconds ahead of No. 52 Corvette of John Buttermore.

“I think just about everything went according to plan, leading all four days of qualifying and leading flag-to-flag for victory,” Aquilante said. “It is what I had hoped and worked for all year. The first few laps I was pretty nervous, making sure I was hitting all my marks, then I kind of settled into a rhythm. John Heinricy came over the radio and told me that Lance Knupp was out and that kind of eased away some of the pressure. John [Buttermore] was behind me but he began to fade back and then I couldn’t see him in my mirrors coming out of the corners. That took the pressure away so I eased off and brought it home.”

After the No. 37 Corvette of Lance Knupp, from Fenton, Mich., dropped out of the race on lap two with ABS failure, McGinley’s No. 50 Corvette moved into the third spot, where he remained unchallenged throughout the race.

Phillip Croyle, of Boca Raton, Fla., and Michael Tracy, of Morton Grove, Ill., completed the top five, both in Chevrolet Corvettes. Russ Snow, of Eden, N.C., in the No. 20 Corvette was the Sunoco Hard Charger, advancing seven positions during the race.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

Attached image: Andrew Aquilante crosses the finish line to take the Touring 1 victory.
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 10/12/07

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Borowski Wins Pace American Hot Pursuit Trailer

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 10:16:27 PST

Borowski Wins Pace American Hot Pursuit Trailer
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Oct. 12, 2007) – Sports Car Club of America Solo National Champion Bartek Borowski, of Elmwood Park, Ill., won a Pace American Pursuit trailer valued at over $14,000 today in a drawing from 53 eligible SCCA members at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T.

Borowski earned eligibility at this year’s Tire Rack® SCCA Solo National Championships in September by turning his three runs within the least variance on Thursday’s West course. Borowski, along with 27 other Soloists from throughout the Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Tour and Championship season, had their names placed in a hopper with 25 SCCA Club Racing drivers who gained eligibility this week during Runoffs qualifying.

When the ping-pong balls were mixed, the first one out had Borowski’s name on it.

“It came as a big surprise,” Borowski said. “I’m not exactly sure how I’m going to pull it yet, but we’ll figure that out. It’s very exciting and a shock.”

Borowski can either accept the Pursuit trailer or apply its value toward another product from Pace American.

Pace American
Pace American is the premier manufacturer of enclosed motorsport, cargo, & specialty trailers in the country. Based in Middlebury, Indiana, Pace manufactures 13 different models of steel and aluminum trailers, including the Shadow the most popular motorsports trailer in America and Optima motorhomes. Pace is supported through five manufacturing facilities and over 450 dealers across North America. For more information, please visit www.paceamerican.com.

Attached: Image of Pace Pursuit trailer courtesy of Pace American.

Posted On 10/12/07

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Feller Captures Fourth-Consecutive H Production National Championship

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 10:12:33 PST

Feller Captures Fourth-Consecutive H Production National Championship
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 12, 2007) – Tom Feller, of Atlanta, Ga., took his fourth-consecutive H Production National Championship at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T after a race-long battle with Brian Linn, of Hermosa Beach, Calif. Ron Bartell, of Madubry, N.H., finished third.

A light sprinkle began to fall on the H Production field as the cars made their way onto the course. When the green flag few, it was the No. 28 MG Midget of Don Barrack, of Waterloo, S.C., who zipped into the lead down the front stretch. By the exit of Turn Two, however, polesitter Feller was back in the lead, followed by Bartell and Linn.

After making quick work of Bartell’s No. 4 MG Midget, Linn set to work on Feller’s No. 71 Triumph Spitfire. On Lap three, the pair began an epic battle of side-by-side racing, exchanging the lead numerous times throughout the 18-lap race.

“Really, I think I only knocked off his tail light in Turn 12 once and that was unintentional,” Feller said. “From my perspective, that’s one of the best Production races I’ve ever seen between two people. It was just tooth and nail the whole time. It was great.”

“On the last lap, going through eight, there was lapped traffic right on the line and [Linn] had to jig to the right. I could draft, surprisingly, and pulled to the inside. He was in the middle of the track and I drove him in deep enough into 10 and figured ‘something’s got to happen’”

And something did happen. As Linn led Feller into Turn Ten on the final lap, Linn got too distracted by the yellow Spitfire filling his mirrors and spun into the grass.

“I just ran out of talent,” Linn said. “Tom looked inside and distracted me a little bit. I got offline a little bit and it was pretty greasy. I just looped it off and did some doughnuts in the grass before I got it going again.”

Feller breezed by and continued to the checkered flag for his fourth-consecutive H Production National Championship.

“It feels really spectacular to win four in a row and to have good luck that many times,” Feller said. “Every year, something’s gone my way. It feels really good to be in that group of six.”

Bartell finished third, followed by Loren Moore, of Springfield, Ohio, and Matthew Brannon, Columbus, Ohio. Andrew Aldred, of East Troy, Wis., was the Sunoco Hard Charger, advancing eight positions during the race.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

Attached image: The H Production podium at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs
Credit: Eric Griesinger

Posted On 10/12/07

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2007 SCCA Yokohama Advan Volunteers of the Year Announced

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 10:08:18 PST

2007 SCCA Yokohama Advan Volunteers of the Year Announced
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 12, 2007) - The 2007 SCCA Yokohama Advan Volunteers of the Year were announced Thursday night at the 44th SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T, being held at Heartland Park Topeka.

Ten winners were announced in the Emergency Services, Flagging & Communications, Pit/Grid, Race Administration, Registration, Start, Scrutineering, Timing & Scoring, Sound Control and Race Steward specialties, with one of the group being selected to receive a trip to be determined, courtesy of Yokohama.

The 2007 Yokohama Advan Volunteers of the Year are: Bob Thompson, Kansas City Region Emergency Services; Diane Prokopf, St. Louis Region Flagging & Communications; Carolyn Bayer-Broring, Washington D.C. Region Pit & Grid; Steven Jaroch, San Francisco Region Race Administration; Wanda Cecil, South Carolina Region Registration; Ty Till, Rio Grande Region Scrutineering; Wayne Hill, Houston Region Sound Control; Bruce Brunner, San Francisco Region Starter; Barrett Braun, St. Louis Region Steward; Denise Patten, New England Region Timing & Scoring

In the random draw of all eligible Volunteers of the Year, Hill was the recipient of a trip to be determined by Yokohama.

After four days of qualifying, racing is ready to begin at the 2007 Runoffs. S2000 kicks things off at 9:30 a.m. (CDT) today. For live timing and scoring, lap notes, streaming audio and results, visit www.scca.com, and click on the Runoffs logo.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

Attached image: SCCA President Jim Julow and SCCA Steward of the Year Barrett Braun.
Credit: Eric Prill

Posted On 10/12/07

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Heinricy Takes Showroom Stock C SCCA National Championship

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 10:04:48 PST

Heinricy Takes Showroom Stock C SCCA National Championship
By Eric Prill, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Oct. 12, 2007) – John Heinricy, of Royal Oak, Mich., captured his 11th Sports Car Club of America National Championship today, his first in Showroom Stock C, at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. Joel Lipperini, of Pittston, Pa., and Joe McClughan, of New Braunfels, Texas, completed the top three.

Driving the No. 32 Phoenix Performance/Hoosier Chevrolet Cobalt SS, Heinricy started second and moved past early leader and polesitter Lipperini on lap eight. Heinricy’s run to his 11th title was not easy, though, as Lipperini’s No. 81 Hankook Tire/RaceShopper.com Honda Civic Si attacked him for the duration of the 18-lap, 45-mile race around the 2.5-mile circuit.

On the race’s final lap, Lipperini slid wide in turn nine giving Heinricy a small gap. Two corners later, Heinricy clipped the inside of the curb and went up on two wheels, allowing Lipperini to gain back some ground. In the end, Heinricy’s Cobalt beat Lipperini’s Honda to the finish by 0.922-second.

“It was a great run,” Heinricy said. “We had the Chevy Cobalt set up great for the race. The whole team did a really good job. All I had to do was the driver stuff when I got in, but boy, did Joel and Joe make me do it!

“I have trouble even remembering where I made the pass for the lead. I made an earlier pass, I think Joel got a bit wide in 12, but he got back past me into 14. Then, a few laps later, I got a great run out onto the front straightaway and was able to get enough of a run into the first turn. Then it was a matter of keeping it, but that was hard.”

Heinricy now has 11 National Championships in 14 attempts, with a record career winning percentage of 78 percent.

“This win ranks up at the top with just one or two others because it was such a close and hard fought win. Tight racing, close wheel to wheel, and tight racing all the way.”

McClughan admitted that he backed off a bit after being a part of the lead battle for the first eight laps in his No. 36 Mazdas/Hankook Tires/Mazdaspeed MAZDA3 to try to make a run at the finish. However, he was never able to close the gap.

Ali Naimi, of San Jose, Calif., and Luke Russell, of Fort Myers, Fla., completed the top five.

John Saucier, of Oklahoma City, Okla., earned the Sunoco Hard Charger award for advancing four positions during the race.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

Attached: Image of John Heinricy
Image by Eric Griesinger

Posted On 10/12/07

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Fergus Wins Fifth Sports 2000 National Championship

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 10:00:28 PST

Fergus Wins Fifth Sports 2000 National Championship
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 12, 2007) – John Fergus, of Powell, Ohio, captured his fifth Sports 2000 SCCA National Championship with a last lap pass on Nick Mancuso, of Libertyville, Ill., at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. Mancuso would go on to finish third, behind Marc Mercer, of Aurora, Colo.

Starting second, Fergus took the lead from polesitter Mercer on the start and led the first three laps in his No. 0 Carbir CS-2, with the No. 06 Lola 91/90 of Mercer and the No. 61 Lola T90190 of Mancuso in tow. Fergus relinquished the lead to Mercer on lap four with a spin going into Turn 10.

“Mark bobbled at the start and I was able to get by,” Fergus said. “I thought that this was going to work out just fine. I got this big lead and then I made a mistake going into the chicane. I went wide and out into the grass and Mark got by. Then, a few laps later, I screwed up going into two and Nick got a flyer and got by me.”

Once in the lead Mercer was able to open up a 3.308-second lead by lap 13. Then, it was Mercer’s turn to make a mistake, spinning and relinquishing the lead to first-time Runoffs competitor Mancuso, followed two laps later by Fergus.

On the white-flag lap, the three entered the final corners in a tight pack. Contact between the nose of Fergus and the bumper of Mancuso sent the No. 61 into a spin in Turn 14.

“We came into the last lap and were real close,” Fergus said. “I was as surprised as Nick was, but my tapes will show and so will my data that I was at the same speed in the corner as I had been. I don’t know what happened, but we were out of the turn past the apex when he just slowed. Then pop, we got together; I just can’t explain it, it just happened. It was an unfortunate end to what had been a fabulous race.”

Fergus recovered to take his fifth S2000 National Championship, while Mercer, who took evasive action to avoid the incident ahead of him, was able to come home second. Mancuso got it straightened out quick enough to cross the finish line in third. Michael Bautz, of Machesney Park, Ill., and Jay Messenger, of Muleshoe, Texas, finished fourth and fifth, respectively.

Rick Johnson, of Bend, Ore., was the Sunoco Hard Charger, advancing four positions during the race.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

Attached image: The S2000 SCCA National Championship Podium
Credit: Eric Griesinger

Posted On 10/12/07

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First Nine SCCA National Champions Crowned

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 12:20:33 PST

First Nine SCCA National Champions Crowned
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 12, 2007) – Nine SCCA National Champions were crowned in the first race day of the 44th SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T. Despite looming grey clouds, raindrops didn’t interrupt any of the spectacular racing action at Heartland Park Topeka.

Race One: Fergus Wins Fifth Sports 2000 National Championship

John Fergus, of Powell, Ohio, captured his fifth Sports 2000 SCCA National Championship with a last lap pass on Nick Mancuso, of Libertyville, Ill., at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. Mancuso would go on to finish third, behind Marc Mercer, of Aurora, Colo.

Starting second, Fergus took the lead from polesitter Mercer on the start and led the first three laps in his No. 0 Carbir CS-2, with the No. 06 Lola 91/90 of Mercer and the No. 61 Lola T90190 of Mancuso in tow. Fergus relinquished the lead to Mercer on lap four with a spin going into Turn 10.

“Mark bobbled at the start and I was able to get by,” Fergus said. “I thought that this was going to work out just fine. I got this big lead and then I made a mistake going into the chicane. I went wide and out into the grass and Mark got by. Then, a few laps later, I screwed up going into two and Nick got a flyer and got by me.”

Once in the lead Mercer was able to open up a 3.308-second lead by lap 13. Then, it was Mercer’s turn to make a mistake, spinning and relinquishing the lead to first-time Runoffs competitor Mancuso, followed two laps later by Fergus.

On the white-flag lap, the three entered the final corners in a tight pack. Contact between the nose of Fergus and the bumper of Mancuso sent the No. 61 into a spin in Turn 14.

“We came into the last lap and were real close,” Fergus said. “I was as surprised as Nick was, but my tapes will show and so will my data that I was at the same speed in the corner as I had been. I don’t know what happened, but we were out of the turn past the apex when he just slowed. Then pop, we got together; I just can’t explain it, it just happened. It was an unfortunate end to what had been a fabulous race.”

Fergus recovered to take his fifth S2000 National Championship, while Mercer, who took evasive action to avoid the incident ahead of him, was able to come home second. Mancuso got it straightened out quick enough to cross the finish line in third. Michael Bautz, of Machesney Park, Ill., and Jay Messenger, of Muleshoe, Texas, finished fourth and fifth, respectively.

Rick Johnson, of Bend, Ore., was the Sunoco Hard Charger, advancing four positions during the race.

Race Two: Bovis Drives Flag-to-Flag To Capture First GT-Lite National Championship

Local driver Chris Bovis put on an impressive driving display in front of his hometown fans to win his first GT-Lite National Championship at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. Joe Kristensen, of London, Ontario, finished second, while Peter Zekert, of Maryland Heights, Mo., was third.

In the second race of the morning under overcast skies, Bovis grabbed the early lead from the polesitter Kristensen heading into Turn One, followed by Zekert. Driving the No. 18 Goodyear Honda CRX, Bovis used his home track knowledge to keep both Kristensen and Zekert behind him early.

On lap four, Zekert motored his No. 45 BOOBLE/RedLine/Goodyear Nissan 200SX past Kristensen for third place, while Bovis opened up nearly two second lead. By lap six, the leaders were more than 22 seconds ahead of the field.

For the next two laps, Zekert and Kristensen were locked in an intense battle for position until Kristensen drove his No. 24 Kristensen Auto Development Acura Integra deep into Turn Three retaking second place.

With his sights set on the leader, Kristensen managed to cut Bovis’ lead to under a second with three laps left in the 18-lap race. Unfortunately for Kristensen, the first and only caution of the race came out on lap 17 to remove Dan Hall’s No. 77 Dan Hall & Auto Machine Shop Nissan 200SX from the Turn 14 wall.

The race ended under caution giving Bovis his first SCCA National Championship.

“Our strategy was to push Joe and wear his tires out, but we got by him at the start and then Joe was pushing me trying to get me to wear my tires out,” Bovis said. “Things looked good in the mid part of the race, but towards the end, I was getting a little bit slower and we were going the same speed unfortunately. It got awful tight. The yellow flag came out and it is hard to say if I could have held him off. Joe was running awful fast and I want you to know that he raced me totally clean. I have to thank him for that.”

Zekert, who had run up front most of the race, fell off the pace late in the race due to a broken gear box leaving him with only the first three gears.

Four-time SCCA National Champion Jim Dentici, of Oconomowoc, Wis., was the Sunoco Hard Charger. He advanced 25 positions throughout the race, from 29th to fourth. William Pintaric, of Youngstown, Ohio, finished fifth.

Race Three: Heinricy Takes Showroom Stock C SCCA National Championship

John Heinricy, of Royal Oak, Mich., captured his 11th Sports Car Club of America National Championship today, his first in Showroom Stock C, at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. Joel Lipperini, of Pittston, Pa., and Joe McClughan, of New Braunfels, Texas, completed the top three.

Driving the No. 32 Phoenix Performance/Hoosier Chevrolet Cobalt SS, Heinricy started second and moved past early leader and polesitter Lipperini on lap eight. Heinricy’s run to his 11th title was not easy, though, as Lipperini’s No. 81 Hankook Tire/RaceShopper.com Honda Civic Si attacked him for the duration of the 18-lap, 45-mile race around the 2.5-mile circuit.

On the race’s final lap, Lipperini slid wide in turn nine giving Heinricy a small gap. Two corners later, Heinricy clipped the inside of the curb and went up on two wheels, allowing Lipperini to gain back some ground. In the end, Heinricy’s Cobalt beat Lipperini’s Honda to the finish by 0.922-second.

“It was a great run,” Heinricy said. “We had the Chevy Cobalt set up great for the race. The whole team did a really good job. All I had to do was the driver stuff when I got in, but boy, did Joel and Joe make me do it!

“I have trouble even remembering where I made the pass for the lead. I made an earlier pass, I think Joel got a bit wide in 12, but he got back past me into 14. Then, a few laps later, I got a great run out onto the front straightaway and was able to get enough of a run into the first turn. Then it was a matter of keeping it, but that was hard.”

Heinricy now has 11 National Championships in 14 attempts, with a record career winning percentage of 78 percent.

“This win ranks up at the top with just one or two others because it was such a close and hard fought win. Tight racing, close wheel to wheel, and tight racing all the way.”

McClughan admitted that he backed off a bit after being a part of the lead battle for the first eight laps in his No. 36 Mazdas/Hankook Tires/Mazdaspeed MAZDA3 to try to make a run at the finish. However, he was never able to close the gap.

Ali Naimi, of San Jose, Calif., and Luke Russell, of Fort Myers, Fla., completed the top five.

John Saucier, of Oklahoma City, Okla., earned the Sunoco Hard Charger award for advancing four positions during the race.

Race Four: Feller Captures Fourth-Consecutive H Production National Championship

Tom Feller, of Atlanta, Ga., took his fourth-consecutive H Production National Championship at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T after a race-long battle with Brian Linn, of Hermosa Beach, Calif. Ron Bartell, of Madubry, N.H., finished third.

A light sprinkle began to fall on the H Production field as the cars made their way onto the course. When the green flag few, it was the No. 28 MG Midget of Don Barrack, of Waterloo, S.C., who zipped into the lead down the front stretch. By the exit of Turn Two, however, polesitter Feller was back in the lead, followed by Bartell and Linn.

After making quick work of Bartell’s No. 4 MG Midget, Linn set to work on Feller’s No. 71 Triumph Spitfire. On Lap three, the pair began an epic battle of side-by-side racing, exchanging the lead numerous times throughout the 18-lap race.

“Really, I think I only knocked off his tail light in Turn 12 once and that was unintentional,” Feller said. “From my perspective, that’s one of the best Production races I’ve ever seen between two people. It was just tooth and nail the whole time. It was great.”

“On the last lap, going through eight, there was lapped traffic right on the line and [Linn] had to jig to the right. I could draft, surprisingly, and pulled to the inside. He was in the middle of the track and I drove him in deep enough into 10 and figured ‘something’s got to happen’”

And something did happen. As Linn led Feller into Turn Ten on the final lap, Linn got too distracted by the yellow Spitfire filling his mirrors and spun into the grass.

“I just ran out of talent,” Linn said. “Tom looked inside and distracted me a little bit. I got offline a little bit and it was pretty greasy. I just looped it off and did some doughnuts in the grass before I got it going again.”

Feller breezed by and continued to the checkered flag for his fourth-consecutive H Production National Championship.

“It feels really spectacular to win four in a row and to have good luck that many times,” Feller said. “Every year, something’s gone my way. It feels really good to be in that group of six.”

Bartell finished third, followed by Loren Moore, of Springfield, Ohio, and Matthew Brannon, Columbus, Ohio. Andrew Aldred, of East Troy, Wis., was the Sunoco Hard Charger, advancing eight positions during the race.

Race Five: Peter Cruises to Second C Sports Racing National Championship

Hans Peter, of Overland Park, Kan., nearly lapped the field en route to winning his second-consecutive C Sports Racing National Championship at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. Jacek Mucha, of Laval, Quebec, and Ken Davis, of Escondido, Calif., completed the top three.

Peter, a Chicago Region SCCA Triple Crown ® winner who was heavily favored to win, did not quite get the jump he thought he did at the start as Jason Miller shot around Peter heading into turn one. Though Miller powered his No. 3 Kohler/Millenium/Goodyear WynnFurst West by Peter in turn one, he could not make the move stick. Two corners later, Peter put his No. 66 Phenix Label/Hoosier Swift 014 Viking to the inside of Miller in turn three and from there, cruised to his second National Championship by 1:24.531.

“I was really surprised at the start because I thought that I had a great start,” Peter said. “I looked into my mirrors to see where [Rennie] Clayton was because I got a good jump on him. I thought to myself that this was going to be easy. And then, Jason Miller went past me into turn one. He really pulled me into the turn and then he was weaving around because he had so much speed so I was able to get a good run on him coming out of two and into the Carousel. There is no way that somebody can pass on the outside there so I just went inside and got past him. He tucked in behind me and then three or four turns later I looked into my mirrors and saw that I was pulling away. I backed off two or three seconds a lap and brought it home.”

Although Mucha qualified fifth in his No. 07 PHOENIX-INNOTECH INC. Swift JMS, he had to start from the rear because he was late to the starting grid. Undaunted by his starting position, Mucha maneuvered his way through 16 cars to finish second.

Driving the No. 64 Davisstone inc/Speed Dynamics Ralt Viking, Davis spent most of the race battling then third place driver William Goldkind, of Holbrook, N.Y., until the last lap of the race. Coming out of the final corner, Goldkind spun allowing Davis to earn his first Runoffs podium finish.

Despite the spin, Goldkind finished fourth and Vance Gaddini, of Mi Wuk Village, Calif., finished fifth.

James Smith, of Alvin, Texas, was the Sunoco Hard Charger for advancing six positions throughout the race, from 12th to sixth.

Race Six: Aquilante Storms to Touring 1 Win, First SCCA National Championship

Andrew Aquilante, of Chester Springs, Pa., earned his first-ever SCCA National Championship with a win in Touring 1 at the 44th SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. John Buttermore, of Pontiac, Mich., and Mike McGinley, of Overland Park, Kan., completed the top three.

It was the perfect end to a perfect Runoffs for 20 year-old Aquilante, who led every qualifying session, eventually taking the pole by nearly half a second, then leading the 18-lap race from start to finish to take his first-ever SCCA National Championship. Completing all 18-laps without incident, Aquilante’s No. 36 Chevrolet Corvette crossed the finish line 7.110 seconds ahead of No. 52 Corvette of John Buttermore.

“I think just about everything went according to plan, leading all four days of qualifying and leading flag-to-flag for victory,” Aquilante said. “It is what I had hoped and worked for all year. The first few laps I was pretty nervous, making sure I was hitting all my marks, then I kind of settled into a rhythm. John Heinricy came over the radio and told me that Lance Knupp was out and that kind of eased away some of the pressure. John [Buttermore] was behind me but he began to fade back and then I couldn’t see him in my mirrors coming out of the corners. That took the pressure away so I eased off and brought it home.”

After the No. 37 Corvette of Lance Knupp, from Fenton, Mich., dropped out of the race on lap two with ABS failure, McGinley’s No. 50 Corvette moved into the third spot, where he remained unchallenged throughout the race.

Phillip Croyle, of Boca Raton, Fla., and Michael Tracy, of Morton Grove, Ill., completed the top five, both in Chevrolet Corvettes. Russ Snow, of Eden, N.C., in the No. 20 Corvette was the Sunoco Hard Charger, advancing seven positions during the race.

Race Seven: Robinson Earns Second Formula Ford SCCA National Championship

Polesitter John Robinson, of St. Cloud, Fla., earned a hard-fought second Formula Ford National Championship at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. Tony Coello, of Palmyra, Calif., finished second, while Steve Oseth, of Leesburg, Va., was third.

Starting from the front row, Coello powered his No. 17 www.pouredfoundations.com Van Dieman RF-01-2 to the early lead and continued to lead for the first six laps before relinquishing it to Robinson. Driving the No. 19 Cricket Farm Motors/Goodyear/Lee Racing, Robinson did everything he could to shake Coello from his rearview mirrors, but unfortunately for Robinson, Coello regained the lead on lap 14.

“I got conservative and started making a few mental mistakes,” Robinson said of Coello’s lap 14 pass. “He [Coello] caught up to me. The track was colder than it had been all week and that affected the race. If the sun had come out, things may have been different. I went off at nine – just went straight off – and I figured ‘just keep it straight and don’t hit anything,’ As it was, I only lost two car lengths to him. I figured that was the race. I figured that second was better hitting the wall.”

With one lap remaining, Coello looked well on his way to winning his first National
Championship until he drove off course coming out of turn six and gave the lead back to Robinson for good. Robinson won the 18-lap event by 2.105-seconds over Coello.

“This was about as much fun as I have had in a long, long time,” Coello said. “Near the end of the race, I broke my own cardinal rule – run your own pace and don’t do anything crazy when you get into a lead. John had gotten in the dirt and had gone off the track and I opened up a little lead. I got conservative. I hadn’t gone through that turn that slow all week. I got the revs too low and when I got the revs up to where they should have been, they just spun the rear tires. I did everything I could just to keep it out of the wall and to keep it from spinning. I gave the lead to John, just a bad move on my part.”

“I was really surprised to see Tony go off there,” Robinson said.

Piloting the No. 36 Hoosier Tire/DBM Racing Citation FF-94, Oseth spent the entire race battling eventual fourth place finisher Ethan Shippert, of Petaluma, Calif.

Timothy Kautz, of Geneva, Ill., finished fifth after starting 14th. Mark Blythe, of Edwardsville, Ill., won the Sunoco Hard Charger for advancing 12 positions throughout the race, from 23rd to 11th.

Race Eight: Peterson Scores Sixth SCCA GT-3 National Championship

Pete Peterson, of Lumberton, N.C., came back from an opening lap incident to claim his sixth GT-3 National Championship at the 44th SCCA National Championship Runoffs at Heartland Park Topeka. Larry Hansen, of Eureka, Calif., and Tom Thrash Jr., completed the top three.

Peterson grabbed the lead early in his No. 98 Toyota/Redline/Goodyear Toyota Celica, but polesitter, John Black in the No. 17 Nissan 350Z stuck with Peterson through the opening corners. The pair collided in Turn Five, sending both into the grass. Peterson would continue, while Black remained parked in Turn five, hoodless.

Peterson fell back to sixth, but made quick work of the field, moving into third by lap four and into the lead, around the No. 76 RedLine/Toyota Motorsports/TRD Toyota Celica of Michael Cyphert, on lap seven in Turn Ten.

“I got a good start, got [John] Black at the start.” Peterson said. “We went up the hill side-by-side and touched. That must have knocked a wheel bearing or something, because after that I had no brakes for the rest of the race.I used the gearbox to slow down. It was a pretty wild ride. For a minute I thought that I was through, but I was only down a few seconds and the fellows ahead were sliding around so I decided that I would give it a whirl.”

As Peterson pulled away for his sixth GT3 SCCA National Championship, Cyphert appeared to have the second spot wrapped up, but spun on his own in Turn Four, allowing the No. 90 Nissan Motorsports/TCM Goodyear Nissan 350Z of Hansen to move into second.

Throughout the closing laps of the race the No. 16 Cars Houston/Mazda/Goodyear Mazda RX7 of Thrash Jr., and the No. 91 St. Clair Data Systems/Robinson Racing Nissan 200SX of Steve Spiers, from Marietta, Ga., had a spirited battle for fourth, which began a battle for third after Cyphert dropped out. The pair exchanged spots several times in Turns One and Ten, before Thrash Jr. took over the spot for good on lap 14. Spiers finished fourth, followed by Jeff Fleming, of Dallas, Texas.

Jeffrey Winter, of Arvada, Colo., earned the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing 11 positions during the race.

Race Nine: Novak Wins First Formula 500 SCCA National Championship

Brian Novak, of Dearborn, Mich., led all 18-laps to win his first Formula 500 National Championship at the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka. Jason Knuteson, of Danville, Ind., and Jim Libecco, of Bedford, Ohio, completed the top three.

Novak, a Chicago Region SCCA Triple Crown winner, got a good jump at the start in his No. 66 Hoosier Tire/HRP Motorsports NovaKar J360 heading into turn one and never looked back. He led the entire 18-lap race winning by 4.576-seconds.

“It’s unbelievable considering how many years I’ve had something go wrong at the Runoffs,” Novak said of his first win. “I think I’ve finished the Runoffs three times out of six tries. But, it was finally good to have everything go right. I was trying to run a conservative race. This feels pretty good. It’s been a long time coming.”

Starting from the pole in the No. 92 Hoosier Racing Scorpion S1, Knuteson fell to fifth on the start but managed to work his way through traffic and was up to second by lap six. From there, Knuteson tried to stay within striking distance of Novak with the hopes of challenging for the lead late in the race. But, in the end, Knuteson settled for a solid second place finish.

Libecco put together one of the best performances of the day after starting 19th and finishing third. His effort in the No. 98 Sonny’s SpeedShop/QRE KBS MKV earned him the Sunoco Hard Charger for advancing 16 positions.

Robert Giesen, of Sherwood, Wis., and Steve Jondal, of Somerset, Wis., finished fourth and fifth respectively.

Racing resumes Saturday at 10:00 a.m. (CDT), with Touring 3. Live timing, lap notes, streaming audio and complete results are available at www.scca.com.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

Results, by race, from Friday’s SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka with finishing position, starting position, driver, hometown, car, laps complete and time behind winner.

Race 1, Sports 2000
1, 2, John Fergus II, Powell, OH, Carbir CS-2, 18
2, 1, Mark Mercer, Aurora, CO, Lola 91/90, 18, -7.951
3, 4, Nick Mancuso, Libertyville, IL, Lola T90190, 18, -14.274
4, 3, Michael Bautz, Machesney Pk, IL, Lola T90/90, 18, -16.585
5, 7, Jay Messenger, Muleshoe, TX, Lola JM08, 18, -25.86
6, 5, Mark Hardymon, Delaware, OH, Carbir CS-2, 18, -26.511
7, 8, M.Bart Wolf, Elkhart Lake, WI, Carbir CS2.8, 18, -26.91
8, 9, Rob Sherwood, Saint Louis, MO, Carbir CS2-03, 18, -27.847
9, 11, Richard Leslie, Kershaw, SC, Carbir CS2, 18, -36.905
10, 6, Michael Scully, Calabasas, CA, Slingshot DB5-L, 18, -38.819
11, 12, Joseph Moran, Laguna Hills, CA, Carbir cs2, 18, -53.415
12, 13, Doug Ota, Irvine, CA, Swift DB-2, 18, -1:22.904
13, 17, Rick Johnson, Bend, OR, Van Diemen RFS-02S, 18, -1:37.455
14, 18, Vincent Lamanna, Ontario, NY, Tiga/Lincspeed SC80, 17, -1 Lap
15, 16, Jay Dunnam III, Carrollton, TX, Swift DB-2, 17, -1.326
16, 19, Sterling Ellsworth, Santa Barbara, CA, Swift DB5, 17, -30.809
17, 20, Gary Holcomb, Ontario, CA, Swift DB2, 16, -2 Laps
DNF, 10, David Ferguson, Sunnyvale, CA, Van Diemen RFS-03, 6, -12 Laps
DNF, 14, Bruce Allison, Calabasas, CA, Lola MS/02 88/90, 4, -14 Laps
DNS, 15, Dennis Pavlina, Vancouver, WA, Van Diemen RFS-97S, 0, --
Average race speed: 93.967 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:34.448, John Fergus
Lap leaders: Laps 1-3, John Fergus; Laps 4-12, Mark Mercer; Laps 13-17, Nick Mancuso; Lap 18 Fergus

Race 2, GT – Lite
1, 2, Christopher Bovis, Lawrence, KS, Honda CRX, 18
2, 1, Joe Kristensen, London, ON, Acura Integra, 18, -0.661
3, 3, Peter Zekert, Maryland Heights, MO, Nissan 200SX, 18, -1:32.469
4, 29, Jim Dentici, Oconomowoc, WI, Honda CRX si, 18, -1:42.236
5, 5, William Pintaric Jr, Youngstown, OH, Nissan 200sx, 18, -2:09.867
6, 4, Mike Alexander, Winthrop Harbor, IL, Nissan Sentra b15, 18, -2:10.281
7, 10, R. Keith Maloney, Parsons, KS, Honda CRX, 18, -2:11.017
8, 8, William Gilcrease, Costa Mesa, CA, BMC Mini, 18, -2:12.789
9, 14, Mark Ward, Loxahatchee, FL, Toyota Paseo, 18, -2:14.571
10, 20, Peter Shadowen, Loxahatchee, FL, Honda CRX-Si, 18, -2:14.883
11, 13, Brad Lewis, Saint Louis, MO, Nissan 1200, 18, -2:15.289
12, 9, Jim Hargrove, Surrey, BC, Honda Civic, 17, -1 Lap
13, 15, Mark Connolly, South Park, PA, Honda CRX, 17, -1.609
14, 16, William Davidson, Dexter, MI, Ford Fiesta, 17, -1:21.833
15, 21, Joel Hipp, Norwalk, OH, Austin Mini, 17, -1:23.777
16, 26, Matthew Foley, Spartanburg, SC, Nissan 200SX, 17, -1:28.523
17, 23, Ted Phenix, Kirkland, QC, Austin Mini Cooper S, 17, -1:29.125
18, 18, Roy Lopshire Jr, Blue Springs, MO, Toyota TERCEL, 17, -1:30.751
19, 17, R. Britton Brown, Kansas City, MO, Nissan Sentra B13, 17, -1:34.473
20, 24, Bryan Floyd, Cincinnati, OH, Nissan Sentra, 17, -2:03.656
21, 27, Ben Dewitt, Pueblo, CO, Nissan 200sx, 16, -2 Laps
22, 28, Debra LaFond, Eastlake, OH, Honda Civic, 16, -0.798
23, 7, Lans Stout, Cornelius, OR, Nissan Sentra, 15, -3 Laps
24, 22, Paul Jensen, Colorado Springs, CO, Nissan 1200, 13, -5 Laps
25, 12, William Partridge, Mooresville, IN, Nissan Sentra, 11, -7 Laps
26, 25, Daniel Hall, Portland, OR, Nissan 200sx, 11, -53.836
DNF, , David Patten, Dunbarton, NH, Nissan 1200, 6, -12 Laps
DNF, , Howard Gerstein, Lancaster, PA, Mazda Miata, 1, -17 Laps
DNF, , Kirk Olson, Lakewood, CO, Honda CRX, 0, -18 Laps
DNS, , James Burke, Suwanee, GA, Nissan Sentra SE-R, 0, --
Average race speed: 84.263 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:44.812, Chris Bovis
Lap leaders: Laps 1-18, Chris Bovis

Race 3, Showroom Stock C
1, 32, John Heinricy, Royal Oak, MI, Chevrolet Cobalt SS, 18
2, 81, Joel Lipperini, Pittston, PA, Honda Civic Si, 18, -0.922
3, 36, Joseph McClughan, New Braunfels, TX, Mazda Mazda 3, 18, -11.253
4, 14, Ali Naimi, San Jose, CA, Mazda 3, 18, -26.199
5, 8, Luke Russell, Fort Myers, FL, Honda Civic Si, 18, -30.605
6, 18, Mark McCaughey, Sarasota, FL, Toyota Celica GT, 18, -31.378
7, 70, Samuel Ryan, White Haven, PA, Honda Civic Si, 18, -50.128
8, 31, John Saucier, Oklahoma City, OK, Mazda 3, 18, -51.364
9, 65, Brian Husting, Irvine, CA, Honda Civic Si, 18, -52.689
10, 40, Jeff Jensen, Monument, CO, Mazda 3, 18, -55.997
11, 3, Richard Clarke, Austin, TX, Mazda 3, 18, -1:12.892
12, 47, Brad Davis, Summerville, SC, Honda Civic SI, 18, -1:21.591
13, 38, James Place, San Antonio, TX, Mazda 3, 18, -1:25.997
14, 7, William Hagerty, Escondido, CA, Honda Civic Si, 18, -1:27.597
15, 5, Steven Christopher, Olathe, KS, Honda Civic Si, 17, -1 Lap
16, 43, Brian Bogert, Schnecksville, PA, Dodge Neon, 17, -2.718
17, 22, Tim Myers, Marietta, GA, Mazda 3, 12, -6 Laps
18, 94, Brian Peele, Huntsville, AL, Toyota Corolla XRS, 10, -8 Laps
DNF, 71, Larry Dulude, Washington Depot, CT, Honda Civic, 0, -18 Laps
DNF, 59, Gino Carini, Fox Point, WI, Mazda 3, 0, -0.701
DNS, 4, Guy Pavageau, Columbia, MD, Chevrolet Cobalt SS, 0, --
Average race speed: 77.561 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:54.901, John Heinricy
Lap leaders: Laps 1-7, Joel Lipperini; laps 8-18, John Heinricy

Race 4, H Production
1, 1, Tom Feller, Atlanta, GA, Triumph Spitfire, 18
2, 3, Brian Linn, Hermosa Beach, CA, MG Midget, 18, -12.43
3, 2, Ron Bartell, Madbury, NH, MG midget, 18, -35.687
4, 5, Loren Moore, Springfield, MO, MG Midget, 18, -39.974
5, 9, Matthew Brannon, Columbus, OH, Bertone X1/9, 18, -1:13.014
6, 14, Joel McGinley, Merritt Island, FL, Austin Healey Sprite MK I, 18, -1:32.413
7, 11, Dan Meller, Milwaukee, WI, Nissan 510, 18, -1:34.857
8, 7, John Salisbury, Gurnee, IL, Austin Healey Sprite, 18, -1:43.895
9, 15, Mark Weber, Saint Louis, MO, Austin Healey Sprite, 18, -1:44.431
10, 18, Bob Eichelberger, Imperial, MO, MG Midget, 18, -1:47.932
11, 17, Mike Cummings, Martinez, CA, Austin Healey Sprite, 18, -1:50.432
12, 13, Jerry Oleson, Aurora, CO, Austin Healey Sprite, 17, -1 Lap
13, 10, Thomas Broring, Derwood, MD, Triumph Spitfire, 17, -1.328
14, 20, Gregg Ten Eyck, Boulder, CO, Nissan 510, 17, -36.211
15, 16, Robert Bax, Cincinnati, OH, MG Midget, 17, -58.944
16, 8, Andrew Wright, Murfreesboro, TN, Austin Healey Sprite mk 1, 17, -1:18.937
17, 22, Andrew Aldred, East Troy, WI, Volkswagen Scirocco, 17, -1:24.213
18, 23, Jonathan Becker, Martinez, CA, Mini Cooper S, 16, -2 Laps
19, 24, Dwight Aldred, Sarasota, FL, Volkswagen Cab, 15, -3 Laps
20, 4, Don Barrack, Waterloo, SC, Volkswagen Scirocco, 11, -7 Laps
21, 19, Aaron Johnson, Bloomington, IL, Triumph Spitfire, 11, -1:03.046
22, 21, Robert Horrell Jr, Memphis, TN, Austin Healey Sprite, 9, -9 Laps
23, 12, Kris Larsen, Kewaunee, WI, Austin Healey Sprite, 7, -11 Laps
DNS, 6, Christopher Crisenbery, Parma, MI, Triumph Spitfire, 0, --
DNS, 25, Richard May, Zirconia, NC, Austin Healey Sprite MKI, 0, --
Average race speed: 81.196 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:47.825, Brian Linn
Lap leaders: Laps 1-5, Tom Feller; laps 6-7, Brian Linn; lap 8, Tom Feller; laps 9-10, Brian Linn; lap 11, Tom Feller; lap 12, Brian Linn; laps 13-14, Tom Feller; laps 15-16, Brian Linn; laps 17-18, Tom Feller

Race 5, C Sports Racing
1, 1, Hans Peter, Overland Park, KS, Swift 014 Viking, 18
2, 7, Jacek Mucha, Laval, QC, Ralt JMS, 18, -1:24.531
3, 4, Kenneth Davis, Escondido, CA, Ralt VIKING, 18, -1:27.797
4, 6, William Goldkind, Holbrook, NY, Viking Toyota CSR, 17, -1 Lap
5, 7, Vince Gaddini, Mi Wuk Village, CA, Stohr 05C, 17, -1:00.384
6, 12, James Smith MD, Alvin, TX, Stohr 04C, 16, -2 Laps
7, 11, Douglas Schumacher, Cedar Rapids, IA, Star Mazda MSR, 16, -1.265
8, 9, Michael Rock, Lakewood, CO, Speads RS04, 16, -25.497
9, 14, James Christian, Boulder, CO, Van Diemen SRSCCA, 16, -27.504
10, 10, Samuel Damon, Auburn, CA, Stohr WF2, 16, -49.998
11, 13, Michael Vellone, Mesa, AZ, March VB2, 15, -3 Laps
12, 15, David Koller, Spring, TX, Elan DP-02, 15, -1:05.522
13, 3, Jason Miller, Elkhart Lake, WI, WynnFurst West, 13, -5 Laps
DNF, 2, Rennie Clayton, Oakland, CA, Ralt Dauntless P2007.c, 4, -14 Laps
DNF, 16, Philip Brosius, Allen, TX, Van Diemen SRSCCA, 1, -17 Laps
DNS, 17, Don Yount, University Park, TX, Radical Prosport, 0, --
DNS, 18, Jim Downing, Atlanta, GA, Ralt RT 40, 0, --
DNS, 8, Mike McGinley, Overland Park, KS, Radical SR4, 0, --
Average race speed: 102.597 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:25.443, Hans Peter
Lap leaders: Laps 1-18, Hans Peter

Race 6, Touring 1
1, 1, Andrew Aquilante, Chester Springs, PA, Chevrolet Corvette, 18
2, 2, John Buttermore, Pontiac, MI, Corvette C6, 18, -7.11
3, 3, Mike McGinley, Overland Park, KS, Chevrolet Z06, 18, -36.937
4, 7, Philip Croyle, Boca Raton, FL, Chevrolet Corvette Z06, 18, -42.954
5, 5, Michael Tracy, Morton Grove, IL, Chevrolet Corvette Z06, 18, -52.775
6, 10, Chris Ingle, RaeFord, NC, Chevrolet Corvette Z06, 18, -54.56
7, 8, Alfred Longtin, New Lenox, IL, Chevrolet Z06, 18, -55.471
8, 11, Eric Jones, Eugene, OR, Chevrolet Corvette Z06, 18, -56.248
9, 16, Russ Snow, Eden, NC, Chevrolet Corvette, 18, -1:02.335
10, 41, Michael Pettiford, Louisville, CO, Chevrolet Corvette Z06, 18, -1:05.581
11, 13, Rob Hines, Arlington, VA, Chevrolet Corvette, 18, -1:09.748
12, 96, Jerry Onks, Murfreesboro, TN, Chevrolet Corvette, 18, -1:22.364
13, 17, David Sanders, Exton, PA, Chevrolet Corvette, 18, -1:36.718
14, 18, Oli Thordarson, Trabuco Canyon, CA, Chevrolet Corvette, 18, -1:37.248
15, 14, Michael Tracy, Morton Grove, IL, Chevrolet Corvette Z06, 17, -1 Lap
16, 6, David Pintaric, Canfield, OH, Dodge SRT10 Viper, 17, -25.738
17, 20, Timothy Hund, Norfolk, VA, Chevrolet Corvette, 17, -27.366
18, 19, Natha Waldbaum, Omaha, NE, Chevrolet Corvette Z06, 17, -29.058
19, 4, Lance Knupp, Fenton, MI, Chevrolet Z06, 9, -9 Laps
DNF, 9, Jim Lynch, Chesterfield, MO, Dodge Viper SRT-10, 2, -16 Laps
Average race speed: 87.792 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:41.846, Andrew Aquilante
Lap leaders: Laps 1-18, Andrew Aquilante

Race 7, Formula Ford
1, 1, John Robinson II, Saint Cloud, FL, Swift db-6, 18
2, 2, Tony Coello, Palmyra, WI, Van Diemen RF-01-2, 18, -2.105
3, 5, Stephen Oseth, Leesburg, VA, Citation FF-94, 18, -10.366
4, 3, Ethan Shippert, Petaluma, CA, Van Diemen RF97k, 18, -11.616
5, 14, Timothy Kautz, Geneva, IL, Piper DF2D, 18, -18.022
6, 6, Gerald Barrett, Edmond, OK, Swift DB-6, 18, -18.335
7, 9, Eric Langbein, Annapolis, MD, Van Diemen RF-98, 18, -18.713
8, 4, David D'Addario, WallingFord, CT, Swift DB-6, 18, -20.088
9, 11, Shandelle Leonard, Thonotosassa, FL, Swift BD-1, 18, -31.548
10, 19, David Livingston Jr, Nashville, TN, Swift DB-3/89, 18, -52.106
11, 23, Mark Blythe, Edwardsville, IL, Van Diemen RF-98, 18, -52.518
12, 17, Tim Koch, Stilwell, KS, Citation FF, 18, -55.765
13, 21, Mark Keller, Snohomish, WA, Swift DB-01, 18, -1:08.092
14, 18, Stanmore Townes, Santa Clara, CA, Swift DBI, 18, -1:09.224
15, 24, John Vlasis, Cudahy, WI, Piper DF-2, 18, -1:30.904
16, 20, Wes Allen, Lexington, KY, Piper DF-2, 17, -1 Lap
17, 15, Nicolas Hollingshead, Lake City, FL, Van Diemen rf-92, 14, -4 Laps
18, 7, Clifford Johnson, Leawood, KS, Piper DF5, 13, -5 Laps
19, 16, Bill Kephart, Colorado Springs, CO, Vestal 09F, 12, -6 Laps
DNF, 22, R. Lawence Bangert, Issaquah, WA, Swift DB-1, 6, -12 Laps
DNF, 12, Bill Johnson, Leawood, KS, Swift SC93, 6, -1.004
DNF, 8, Michael Sauce, Arlington, TX, Sauce SVM-1, 3, -15 Laps
DNF, 10, Steven Hickham Jr., Corpus Christi, TX, Van Diemen RF-98k, 0, -18 Laps
DNF, 13, Harry Sauce, Fishers, IN, Swift DB-6, 0, -0.246
DNS, 26, John Copple, Golden, CO, Van Diemen RF032Z, 0, --
Average race speed: 79.951 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:37.061, John Robinson
Lap leaders: Laps 1-5, Tony Coello; laps 6-13, John Robinson; laps 14-16, Tony Coello; laps 17-18, John Robinson

Race 8, GT-3
1, 2, Pete Peterson, Lumberton, NC, Toyota Celica, 18
2, 4, Larry Hansen, Eureka, CA, Nissan 350z, 18, -1.759
3, 5, Thomas Thrash Jr, Houston, TX, Mazda RX7, 18, -16.18
4, 12, Stephen Spiers, Marietta, GA, Nissan 200SX, 18, -22.065
5, 14, Fletcher Williams, Lilburn, GA, Nissan 240SX, 18, -1:16.253
6, 11, Jeff Fleming, Dallas, TX, Nissan 350z, 18, -1:18.566
7, 15, John Evilsizor, Danville, CA, Nissan 240sx, 18, -1:19.381
8, 13, Jim Valdez, Denver, CO, BMW E46, 18, -2:02.246
9, 20, Jeffrey Winter, Arvada, CO, Nissan 280z, 17, -1 Lap
10, 19, KenFord Nelson, Novi, MI, Dodge Daytona, 17, -11.043
11, 9, Paul Young Jr., Commerce Township, MI, Ford Probe, 16, -2 Laps
12, 7, Michael Cyphert, Chagrin falls, OH, Toyota Celica, 15, -3 Laps
13, 16, James Burke, Suwanee, GA, Nissan 350z, 14, -4 Laps
DNF, 10, Robert Warkocki, Frankfort, IL, Mazda RX7, 8, -10 Laps
DNF, 6, Milton Grant, Germantown, TN, Toyota Celica, 8, -50.677
DNF, 18, Richard Allen, Chickasha, OK, Nissan 350z, 4, -14 Laps
DNF, 8, Jose Rodriguez, San Leandro, CA, Mazda RX7, 4, -5.571
DNF, 17, George Cichon Jr., Rockton, IL, Mazda RX7, 3, -15 Laps
DNF, 3, Wolfgang Maike, Santa Barbara, CA, Toyota Paseo, 1, -17 Laps
DNF, 1, John Black, Olympic Valley, CA, Nissan 350z, 0, -18 Laps
DNS, 21, Mike Henderson, El Cajon, CA, Mazda RX7, 0, --
Average race speed: 86.664 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:40.946, Pete Peterson
Lap leaders: Laps 1-4, Larry Hansen; laps 5-6 Mike Cyphert; laps 7-18, Pete Peterson

Race 9, Formula 500
1, 2, Brian Novak, Dearborn, MI, NovaKar J360, 18
2, 1, Jason Knuteson, Danville, IN, Scorpion S1, 18, -4.576
3, 19, James Libecco, BedFord, OH, KBS Mk7, 18, -23.686
4, 8, Robert Giesen, Sherwood, WI, Red Devil LD-04, 18, -24.155
5, 13, Steven Jondal, Somerset, WI, Red Devil LD04, 18, -27.431
6, 9, Kenny Price, Dewey, IL, Scorpion 1, 18, -28.192
7, 7, Don Hamilton, Commerce Township, MI, Rakavon E-14, 18, -33.894
8, 17, David Lapham, Irvington, NY, QRE Invader QC-1, 18, -49.025
9, 12, Andrew Brenkus, Halethorpe, MD, Invader QC1, 18, -1:03.374
10, 20, James Weida, Lafayette, IN, Scorpion S1, 18, -1:04.084
11, 21, Joseph Palmer, Coppell, TX, NovaKar J9, 18, -1:26.571
12, 18, Christina Libecco, Warren, OH, KBS MKV, 17, -1 Lap
13, 16, Steven Moore, Towanda, PA, Invader QC-1, 17, -1:04.393
14, 24, Chuck McAbee, Jacksonville, FL, QRE Invader, 17, -1:35.128
15, 25, Charles Schlismann, Homewood, IL, Red Devil SU-F1, 16, -2 Laps
16, 5, James Elder, West Palm Beach, FL, Invader 500, 12, -6 Laps
17, 4, Bob Berman, Palm Beach Gardens, FL, Invader QC-1, 11, -7 Laps
DNF, 15, Aaron Ellis, Farmington, MN, Ellis AE06, 8, -10 Laps
DNF, 3, Bryan Golay, Avon, OH, Invader QC-1, 7, -11 Laps
DNF, 14, Michael Vacek, Steger, IL, Invader QC-1, 7, -6:16.501
DNF, 6, Clint McMahan, Covington, GA, McMahan FDS1, 6, -12 Laps
DNF, 22, Tom Hastings Jr, BelleChasse, La, , 4, -14 Laps
DNF, 11, Jeff Jorgenson, San Jose, CA, NovaKar JJ-10, 0, -18 Laps
DNF, 10, Katherine Lapham, Irvington, NY, Invader QC-1, 0, -0.069
DNF, 23, John Walbran, Saint Louis, MO, Scorpion 2005, 0, -1.496
DNS, 26, Tom Tomlinson, Erlanger, KY, NovaKar J10, 0, --
Average race speed: 75.806 mph
Fastest race lap: 1:37.504, Jason Knuteson
Lap leaders: Laps 1-18, Brian Novak

Attached: Photo of Brian Novak’s No. 66 Hoosier Tire/HRP Motorsports NovaKar J360.
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 10/12/07

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Peterson Scores Sixth SCCA GT-3 National Championship

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 11:38:02 PST

Peterson Scores Sixth SCCA GT-3 National Championship
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 12, 2007) – Pete Peterson, of Lumberton, N.C., came back from an opening lap incident to claim his sixth GT-3 National Championship at the 44th SCCA National Championship Runoffs at Heartland Park Topeka. Larry Hansen, of Eureka, Calif., and Tom Thrash Jr., completed the top three.

Peterson grabbed the lead early in his No. 98 Toyota/Redline/Goodyear Toyota Celica, but polesitter, John Black in the No. 17 Nissan 350Z stuck with Peterson through the opening corners. The pair collided in Turn Five, sending both into the grass. Peterson would continue, while Black remained parked in Turn five, hoodless.

Peterson fell back to sixth, but made quick work of the field, moving into third by lap four and into the lead, around the No. 76 RedLine/Toyota Motorsports/TRD Toyota Celica of Michael Cyphert, on lap seven in Turn Ten.

“I got a good start, got [John] Black at the start.” Peterson said. “We went up the hill side-by-side and touched. That must have knocked a wheel bearing or something, because after that I had no brakes for the rest of the race.I used the gearbox to slow down. It was a pretty wild ride. For a minute I thought that I was through, but I was only down a few seconds and the fellows ahead were sliding around so I decided that I would give it a whirl.”

As Peterson pulled away for his sixth GT3 SCCA National Championship, Cyphert appeared to have the second spot wrapped up, but spun on his own in Turn Four, allowing the No. 90 Nissan Motorsports/TCM Goodyear Nissan 350Z of Hansen to move into second.

Throughout the closing laps of the race the No. 16 Cars Houston/Mazda/Goodyear Mazda RX7 of Thrash Jr., and the No. 91 St. Clair Data Systems/Robinson Racing Nissan 200SX of Steve Spiers, from Marietta, Ga., had a spirited battle for fourth, which began a battle for third after Cyphert dropped out. The pair exchanged spots several times in Turns One and Ten, before Thrash Jr. took over the spot for good on lap 14. Spiers finished fourth, followed by Jeff Fleming, of Dallas, Texas.

Jeffrey Winter, of Arvada, Colo., earned the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing 11 positions during the race.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

Attached image: Six-time SCCA GT3 National Champion Pete Peterson
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 10/12/07

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Twenty Five Pole Positions Set for 2007 SCCA Runoffs

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:52:12 PST

Twenty Five Pole Positions Set for 2007 SCCA Runoffs
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 11, 2007) – Club Racers hit their stride and only a few pole positions changed hands in the final day of qualifying for the 44th SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T.

A day after scoring the C Sports Racing pole, Hans Peter, of Overland Park, Kan., knocked Tonis Kasemets, of Mundelein, Ill., off the Formula Atlantic pole by 0.023-second.

Finishing third last year in American Sedan, Jason Von Kluge, of Ann Arbor, Mich., has scored the AS pole in a Ford Mustang. He is followed by the Mustangs of Andrew McDermid and Tom Sloe.

In his first appearance at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs, Michael Scornavacchi Jr., of Manheim, Pa., took the Showroom Stock B pole in a Pontiac Solstice with a time of 1:51.676. Although it’s not his first Runoffs, Michael Varacins, of Burlington, Wis., took his first Runoffs pole in Formula Vee. Driving a Speed Sport AM-5, Varacins was the provisional polesitter after day one, before falling to second in the order on Tuesday and Wednesday, but finally grasping hold of the top spot today with a 1:47.520.

Tony Coello, of Palmyra, Wis., nearly stole the Formula Ford pole away from John Robinson, of Saint Cloud, Fla., in the final session of the week, but Robinson snatched it back on his final lap. Robinson’s Swift DB-6 flashed to the top of the timing screens, 0.130-second ahead of Coello, as the checkered flag flew.

After losing the S2000 pole to John Fergus, of Powell, Colo., yesterday, defending S2 National Champion Mark Mercer, of Aurora, Colo., reclaimed the top spot in his Lola 91/90 by 0.789-second over Fergus.

Three-time Showroom Stock B Champion Don Knowles, of Pittsboro, N.C., will be chasing his first Touring 2 National Championship from pole. The Pontiac Solstice driver’s Wednesday qualifying time held through today’s qualifying, although Edward Zabinski, of Hallandale Beach, Fla., came within 0.129-second after switching from a Lotus Elise to a Pontiac Solstice overnight.

The first of three race days at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs begins Friday at 9:30 a.m. with the S2000 class. Live timing, lap notes and streaming audio for all races can be found at www.scca.com

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

SCCA National Championship Runoffs polesitters, with class, driver name, driver hometown, car and pole time. Asterisks located after the class name indicate a new polesitter. Asterisks located after the time indicate a new pole time. All results are provisional.

A Sedan* – Jason Von Kluge, Ann Arbor, Mich., Ford Mustang, 1:44.590
C Sports Racing – Hans Peter, Overland Park, Kan., Swift 014 Viking, 1:25.480
D Sports Racing – J.R. Osborne, Castle Rock, Colo., Stohr WF-1, 1:23.910
E Production – Lawrence Loshak, Milwaukee, Wis., Honda Prelude Si, 1:41.663
F Production – Jesse Prather, Topeka, Kan., Mazda Miata, 1:44.546
H Production – Tom Feller, Atlanta, Ga., Triumph Spitfire, 1:48.354
G Production* – Chuck Mathis, Saint Jacob, Ill., Volkswagen Rabbit, 1:47.220
F500 – Jason Knuteson, Danville, Ind., Scorpion S1, 1:36.843
Formula Atlantic* – Hans Peter, Overland Park, Kan., Swift 014, 1:21.596
Formula Continental – Niki Coello, East Troy, Wis., Van Diemen RF-01, 1:30.210*
Formula Ford – John Robinson II, Saint Cloud, Fla., Swift DB-6, 1:36.863*
Formula Mazda – James Goughary Jr., Jupiter, Fla., Star Formula Mazda, 1:32.873*
Formula Vee* – Michael Varacins, Burlington, Wis., Speed Sport AM-5, 1:47.520
GT-1 – Tony Ave, Mooresville, N.C., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:29.920
GT-2 – Wayland Joe, South Barrington, Ill., Porsche GT-3, 1:37.551*
GT-3 – John Black, Olympic Valley, Calif., Nissan 350Z, 1:37.704*
GT-Lite – Joe Kristensen, London, Ontario, Acura Integra, 1:45.360
S2000* – Mark Mercer, Aurora, Colo., Lola 91/90, 1:33.625
Spec Miata – Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda Miata, 1:51.410
Showroom Stock C – Joel Lipperini, Pittston, Pa., Honda Civic Si, 1:54.459*
Showroom Stock B – Michael Scornavacchi, Manheim, Pa., Pontiac Solstice, 1:51.676*
Spec Racer Ford – Mike Miserendino, Los Angeles, Calif., Spec Racer Ford, 1:47.531
Touring 1 – Andrew Aquilante, Chester Springs, Pa., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:39.487*
Touring 2 – Don Knowles, Pittsboro, N.C., Pontiac Solstice, 1:45.864
Touring 3 – John Heinricy, Royal Oak, Mich., Chevrolet Cobalt, 1:47.258

Attached image: Michael Varacins leads a pack of Formula Vees in the final day of qualifying for the SCCA Runoffs.
Credit: Bruce Morton

Posted On 10/11/07

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NASA Releases Updated Entry List For The 25 Hours Of Thunderhill

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:36:37 PST

NASA Releases Updated Entry List For The 25 Hours Of Thunderhill
By Jerry Kunzman, NASA Pro Racing

NASA releases an updated entry list for the 25 Hours of Thunderhill.

Available here:

http://www.nasaproracing.com/norcal/event/25hour/entrylist.pdf

Posted On 10/11/07

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Third Day of Qualifying in the Books at SCCA Runoffs

Wed, 10 Oct 2007 01:33:41 PST

Third Day of Qualifying in the Books at SCCA Runoffs
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 10, 2007) – Another day of qualifying concluded at Heartland Park Topeka for the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs and eight defending champions hold provisional poles.

Defending Spec Racer Ford Champion Mike Miserendino, of Los Angeles, Calif., climbed to the top of the 42-car SRF grid with a time of 1:47.531, after skipping the first two qualifying sessions. The previous polesitter, John Black, of Olympic Valley, Calif., may have dropped to third in SRF, but now sits on pole in GT-3 at the wheel of a Nissan 350Z.

Defending C Sports Racing Champion Hans Peter, of nearby Overland Park, Kan., entered his first CSR qualifying time of the week, a 1:25.480, putting him almost four seconds ahead of yesterday’s polesitter, Jason Miller, of Elkhart Lake, Wis. Jesse Prather, another Kansan and defending Champion, took hold of the F Production Pole in his Mazda Miata with a time of 1:44.546.

In Touring 3, Kevin Fandozzi, of Birmingham, Mich., nipped the pole away from John Heinricy, of Royal Oak, Mich., by a mere 0.007-second. The two Chevrolet Cobalts now sit one-two on the provisional grid.

Last year’s Formula Ford runner-up John Robinson II, of Saint Cloud, Fla., improved his FF pole time to a 1:37.009 in his Swift DB-6, but second-place on the grid Tony Coello, of Palmyra, Wis., also improved his time and sits only 0.243-second behind Robinson.

The final day of qualifying for the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T begins Thursday at 8 a.m. with C Sports Racing and Sports 2000. Live timing for all sessions can be found at www.scca.com.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

SCCA National Championship Runoffs qualifying leaders after day three, with class, driver name, driver hometown, car and pole time. Classes marked with an asterisk indicate a new polesitter. Asterisks located after the class name indicate a new polesitter. Asterisks located after the time indicate a new pole time. All results are provisional.

A Sedan – Andrew McDermid, Grand Ledge, Mich., Ford Mustang, 1:44.860
C Sports Racing* – Hans Peter, Overland Park, Kan., Swift 014 Viking, 1:25.480
D Sports Racing* – J.R. Osborne, Castle Rock, Colo., Stohr WF-1, 1:25.238
E Production – Lawrence Loshak, Milwaukee, Wis., Honda Prelude Si, 1:41.663
F Production* – Jesse Prather, Topeka, Kan., Mazda Miata, 1:44.546
H Production – Tom Feller, Atlanta, Ga., Triumph Spitfire, 1:48.354
G Production* – Jay Marlowe, Hendersonville, N.C., Toyota Corolla, 1:47.515
F500* – Jason Knuteson, Danville, Ind., Scorpion S1, 1:36.843
Formula Atlantic – Tonis Kasemets, Mundelein, Ill., Swift 014, 1:22.617
Formula Continental – Niki Coello, East Troy, Wis., Van Diemen RF-01, 1:30.649
Formula Ford* – John Robinson II, Saint Cloud, Fla., Swift DB-6, 1:37.009
Formula Mazda – James Goughary Jr., Jupiter, Fla., Star Formula Mazda, 1:33.177
Formula Vee* – Bob Neumeister, Pueblo, Colo., Vortech, 1:47.818
GT-1 – Tony Ave, Mooresville, N.C., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:30.362*
GT-2* – Wayland Joe, South Barrington, Ill., Porsche GT-3, 1:38.026
GT-3* – John Black, Olympic Valley, Calif., Nissan 350Z, 1:38.744
GT-Lite* – Joe Kristensen, London, Ontario, Acura Integra, 1:45.360
S2000* – John Fergus II, Powell, Ohio, Carbir CS-2, 1:34.414
Spec Miata – Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda Miata, 1:51.410
Showroom Stock C – Joel Lipperini, Pittston, Pa., Honda Civic Si, 1:54.705*
Showroom Stock B – Michael Scornavacchi, Manheim, Pa., Pontiac Solstice, 1:52.873
Spec Racer Ford* – Mike Miserendino, Los Angeles, Calif., Spec Racer Ford, 1:47.531
Touring 1 – Andrew Aquilante, Chester Springs, Pa., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:40.577*
Touring 2* – Don Knowles, Pittsboro, N.C., Pontiac Solstice, 1:45.864
Touring 3* – Kevin Fandozzi, Birmingham, Mich., Chevrolet Cobalt, 1:48.311

Attached image: Defending C Sports Racing Champion Hans Peter’s first qualifying lap of the week was good enough for the provisional pole.
Credit: Mark Weber

Posted On 10/10/07

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Pole Times Fall at Second Day of SCCA Runoffs

Tue, 09 Oct 2007 01:29:26 PST

Pole Times Fall at Second Day of SCCA Runoffs
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 9, 2007) – Twenty-two new pole times were set on the second day of qualifying for the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T, including 15 brand new polesitters.

After skipping a wet qualifying session on Monday at Heartland Park Topeka, Niki Coello, of East Troy, Wis., has resumed his Formula Continental title defense by taking over the pole spot in his Van Diemen RF-01 by nearly a second and a half over the rest of the field. Coello is going for his third-straight Formula Continental Championship.

Going after his fourth-straight H Production Championship is Tom Feller, of Atlanta, Ga. Feller currently sits on the HP pole in his Triumph Spitfire and should he capture his fourth-consecutive title, he will be only the sixth driver in SCCA history to do so.

Father and son hold poles in Formula Mazda and GT-2. James Goughary Jr., of Jupiter, Fla., skipped the first qualifying session of the week, but took over the Formula Mazda pole today and began his quest for back-to-back Championships, while James Goughary Sr., of Houston, Texas, currently sits atop the GT-2 field, going for his third class crown in a Nissan 350Z.

At the wheel of his Honda Prelude Si, defending E Production National Champion Lawrence Loshak, of Glendale, Wis., wrangled the EP pole away from the Mazda RX-7 of Tom Thrash, from Houston, Texas, by more than half a second.

John Heinricy improved his Chevrolet Cobalt’s Touring 3 pole time to a 1:48.319, nearly a full second faster than his Monday time. The ten-time SCCA National Champion from Royal Oak, Mich., is also entered in Showroom Stock C and American Sedan, where he is currently qualified second and third, respectively.

SCCA National Championship Runoffs qualifying leaders after day two, with class, driver name, driver hometown, car and pole time. Classes marked with an asterisk indicate a new polesitter. Asterisks located after the class name indicate a new polesitter. Asterisks located after the time indicate a new pole time. All results are provisional.

A Sedan* – Andrew McDermid, Grand Ledge, Mich., Ford Mustang, 1:44.860
C Sports Racing* – Jason Miller, Elkhart Lake, Wis., WynnFurst West, 1:30.507
D Sports Racing* – Jean-Luc Liverato, Alpharetta, Ga., Stohr WF1, 1:25.711
E Production* – Lawrence Loshak, Milwaukee, Wis., Honda Prelude Si, 1:41.663
F Production* – Luis Rivera, Rosharon, Texas, Mazda Miata, 1:46.638
G Production – Chuck Mathis, Saint Jacob, Ill., Volkswagen Rabbit, 1:47.692
F500 – Brian Novak, Dearborn, Mich., NovaKar J360, 1:37.722*
Formula Atlantic – Tonis Kasemets, Mundelein, Ill., Swift 014, 1:22.617*
Formula Continental* – Niki Coello, East Troy, Wis., Van Diemen RF-01, 1:30.649
Formula Ford* – John Robinson II, Saint Cloud, Fla., Swift DB-6, 1:37.602
Formula Mazda* – James Goughary Jr., Jupiter, Fla., Star Formula Mazda, 1:33.177
Formula Vee* – Stephen Oseth,, Leesburg, Va., Vortech 07, 1:48.446
GT-1 – Tony Ave, Mooresville, N.C., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:30.362*
GT-2* – James Goughary, Houston, Texas, Nissan 350Z, 1:38.317
GT-3* – Pete Peterson, Lumberton, N.C., Toyota Celica, 1:39.481
GT-Lite – Christopher Bovis, Lawrence, Kan., Honda CRX, 1:45.922
H Production* – Tom Feller, Atlanta, Ga., Triumph Spitfire, 1:48.354
S2000* – Marc Mercer, Aurora, Colo., Lola 91/90, 1:35.031
Spec Miata – Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda Miata, 1:51.410*
Showroom Stock C* – Joel Lipperini, Pittston, Pa., Honda Civic Si, 1:54.958
Showroom Stock B – Michael Scornavacchi, Manheim, Pa., Pontiac Solstice, 1:52.873*
Spec Racer Ford* – John Black, Olympic Valley, Calif., Spec Racer Ford, 1:48.872
Touring 1 – Andrew Aquilante, Chester Springs, Pa., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:41.228*
Touring 2 – William Ziegler, Stamford, Conn., Pontiac GXP, 1:46.417
Touring 3 – John Heinricy, Royal Oak, Mich., Chevrolet Cobalt, 1:48.319*

Attached image: John Heinricy sits on the Touring 3 pole after day two and is also entered in American Sedan and Showroom Stock C
Credit: Bruce Morton

Posted On 10/9/07

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First Provisional Pole Times Set at 2007 SCCA Runoffs

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 01:21:32 PST

First Provisional Pole Times Set at 2007 SCCA Runoffs
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 8, 2007) – The first provisional pole times of the 44th SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T have been set on a day that started cold and wet, but ended perfectly at Heartland Park Topeka.

While the first sessions of the day faced weather reminiscent of last year’s Runoffs, resulting in many drivers opting to skip their session, the skies fortunately cleared and the sun came out in full-force just before the lunch break.

Tom Thrash, of Houston, Texas, appears to have the new course configuration down at Heartland Park and currently holds pole in both E Production and GT-3 in his Mazda RX-7s.

Kansans Jesse Prather and Chris Bovis are provisional polesitters. Defending F Production National Champion Prather splashed to the FP provisional pole at the wheel of his Mazda Miata in the first soggy session of the day, while Bovis has his Honda CRX on the provisional GT-Lite pole.

Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., took the first step to his Spec Miata title defense by grabbing the class provisional pole.

The second day of qualifying kicks off with Showroom Stock B at 8:00 a.m. (CDT) tomorrow. You can follow qualifying via online timing and scoring at www.scca.com. Full results from day one are also available. Just click the SCCA Runoffs logo to be directed to the event page.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports. This year’s event begins with four days of qualifying, Oct. 8-11, and concludes with three days of racing, Oct. 12-14.

SCCA National Championship Runoffs qualifying leaders after day one, with class, driver name, driver hometown, car and pole time.

A Sedan – Phillip Smith, New Albany, Ohio, Chevrolet Camaro, 1:46.128
C Sports Racing – James Christian, Boulder, Colo., Van Diemen SRSCCA, 2:00.457
D Sports Racing – J.R. Osborne, Castle Rock, Colo., Stohr WF-1, 1:29.231
E Production – Tom Thrash, Houston, Texas, Mazda RX-7, 1:42.024
F Production – Jesse Prather, Topeka, Kan., Mazda Miata, 1:59.366
G Production – Chuck Mathis, Saint Jacob, Ill., Volkwagen Rabbit, 1:47.692
F500 – Brian Novak, Dearborn, Mich., NovaKar J360, 1:38.856
Formula Atlantic – Tonis Kasemets, Mundelein, Ill., Swift 014, 1:23.428
Formula Continental – Rossella Manfrinato, Alpharetta, Ga., Tatuus RC97, 1:49.702
Formula Ford – Ethan Shippert, Petaluma, Calif., Van Diemen RF97k, 1:38.431
Formula Mazda – Jamie Slone, Tuscan, Ariz., Star Formula Mazda, 1:34.492
Formula Vee – Michael Varacins, Burlington, Wis., Speed Sport Am-5, 2:00.585
GT-1 – Tony Ave, Mooresville, N.C., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:31.303
GT-2 – Tom Patton, Hamilton, Ohio, Sunbeam Tiger, 1:39.677
GT-3 – Tom Thrash, Houston, Texas, Mazda RX-7, 1:58.630
GT-Lite – Christopher Bovis, Lawrence, Kan., Honda CRX, 1:45.922
H Production – Brian Linn, Hermosa Beach, Calif., MG Midget, 1:50.337
Touring 1 – Andrew Aquilante, Chester Springs, Pa., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:41.351
S2000 – Mark Hardymon, Deleware, Ohio, Carbir CS-2, 1:57.830
Spec Miata – Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda Miata, 1:52.363
Showroom Stock C – John Heinricy, Royal Oak, Mich., Chevrolet Cobalt, 1:55.578
Showroom Stock B – Michael Scornavacchi, Manheim, Pa., Pontiac Solstice, 1:53.120
Spec Racer Ford – Scott Treat, Howell, Mich., Spec Racer Ford, 1:53.995
Touring 2 – Don Knowles, Pittsboro, N.C., Pontiac Solstice, 1:46.626
Touring 3 – John Heinricy, Royal Oak, Mich., Chevrolet Cobalt, 1:49.480

Attached Image: Tom Thrash put a Mazda RX-7 on pole in both E Production (pictured) and GT-3.
Credit: Bruce Morton

Posted On 10/8/07

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The 44th SCCA National Championship Runoffs Are Here

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 01:17:17 PST

The 44th SCCA National Championship Runoffs Are Here
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (October 8, 2007) - Ladies and gentlemen start your engines; the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T has arrived at Heartland Park Topeka.

After a week of testing on the newly configured 2.5-mile road course, more than 650 drivers are entering the first of four qualifying times today. New Runoffs lap records will be set across the board this week. Changes in Turns One, Two, Eight and Nine, are expected to drop lap times anywhere from six to 10 seconds.

Although the damp weather on Monday won’t show the true qualifying potential of several classes just yet, the weather in Topeka is expected to be perfect for the remainder of the event, with clear skies and temperatures in the mid to high 70s.

Nineteen National Champions have returned to defend their titles, including Andrew Caddell (Spec Miata), Niki Coello (Formula Continental), Jim Dentici (GT-Lite), Tom Feller (H Production), Rick Gilhart (Touring 3), Bryan Golay (Formula 500), James Goughary (Formula Mazda)John Heinricy (American Sedan), Mark Jaremko (D Sports Racing), Wayland Joe (GT-2), Lance Knupp (Touring 1), Lawrence Loshak (E Production), Chuck Mathis (G Production), Marc Mercer (S2000), Mike Miserendino (Spec Racer Ford), Stephen Oseth (Formula Vee), Hans Peter (C Sports Racing), Jesse Prather (F Production) and Phillip Simms (GT-1). Defending Showroom Stock B Champion Don Knowles makes the move to Touring 2 this year.

Twenty drivers are chasing a possible SCCA Chicago Region Triple Crown®. Michael Bautz (S2), Bobby Caldwell (FC), Jim Drago (SM), James Goughary Jr. (FM ), Cliff Johnson (FF), Tonis Kasemets (FA), Lance Knupp (T1), Jean-Luc Liverato (DSR), Lawrence Loshak (EP), Chuck Mathis (GP), Joseph McClughan (SSC), Rusty Mitchell (FE), Lee Niffenegger (SSB), Brian Novak (F500), Tom Patton (GT2), Hans Peter (CSR), Steve Sargis (FP), Brian Schofield (SRF), Brad Stout (FV), Rob Warkocki (GT3) and William Ziegler (T2) are all June Sprints® winners and Division Champions searching for the third jewel in the crown.

In addition to the title of SCCA National Champion, Club Racers are also in the hunt for more than $1 million in contingency prizes this week. The contest for a new Pace Pursuit® trailer has already begun. The Pace Hot Pursuit Award will take the driver from each class with the least varience between their top three qualifying times and enter them in a drawing with 28 Soloists selected earlier this year, to win the trailer. The drawing will be held on Friday during the lunch break.

The new www.scca.com offers a variety of features that will allow you to follow the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs from the comfort of your home. Live timing and scoring will be available all week. Live lap notes and streaming audio will accompany timing for all races. Daily recaps, results and event photos will also be updated throughout the week. Just click on the SCCA Runoffs logo on the homepage to access the event page.

Qualifying continues through Thursday, October 11. Sports 2000 kicks off racing action on Friday, October 12 at 9:30 a.m. (CDT).

Attached image: E Production hits the track for Monday qualifying.
Credit: ©SCCA

Posted On 10/8/07

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Aschenbach Takes First Win of Season in Bizarre Road Atlanta Race

Fri, 05 Oct 2007 09:45:08 PST

Aschenbach Takes First Win of Season in Bizarre Road Atlanta Race
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

BRASELTON, Ga. (October 5, 2007) – Lawson Aschenbach, of West Palm Beach, Fla., took his first win of 2007 in a wet and incident-filled Round Nine SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT race at Road Atlanta, part of the 10th Anniversary Petit Le Mans. Ron Fellows, of Mississauga, Ontario, and Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., completed the top three.

The SPEED GT race at Road Atlanta started with a bang, literally, when several cars came together on the standing start, resulting in the No. 12 Diamond Construction/Blackdog Racing Chevrolet Corvette of Brian Kubinski, the No. 28 LG Pro Long Tube Headers Chevrolet Corvette of Lou Gigliotti and the No. 20 Deronda USA Pontaic GTO of Dane Moxlow all being disabled on the front straightaway, with debris littering the course. The race immediately went full-course yellow and several other cars hit pit lane for repairs as the result of the incident. The blockage of the front straight was significant enough that the field was required to follow the pace car through pit lane to avoid the clean-up efforts.

Just before green-flag racing resume on lap nine, a light rain began to fall on the back half of the track. As the green flag flew and race leader Pobst lead the field into Turn One, the light rain became a downpour encompassing the entire 2.54-mile road course.

While the No. 16 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose/Cadillac CTS-V of Fellows immediately hit pit lane for rain tires, the rest of the SPEED GT drivers pressed on in their dry-tire shod cars. But by lap 11, a series of lakes developed in Turns Three, Four and Five, and caught out the leaders. Each of the top five cars slid sideways through Turn Three, catching themselves and continuing. The rest of the field was not as lucky, however, as the No. 30 and No. 31 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvettes of Eric Curan and Sonny Whelen came together, collecting the No. 3 Dodge/MOMO/Corsa/Mintex Dodge Viper of Scotty B. White. Several other cars had to take evasive and sideways action to avoid the parking lot. The full-course yellow came out for the second time on lap 11.

As the majority of the field hit the pits for rain tires, Pobst, still the leader, bypassed his pit stall and continued back out onto the course, still on dry tires.

As the rain continued to flood the course and the cleanup continued in Turn Three, officials brought out the red flag to bring the field into pit-lane. The field was given five minutes to make changes to their cars as necessary, including tire changes, before they were lined back up in their pre-red flag order and sent out behind the pace car.

The entire field, now on rain tires, took the green flag for a final 10-minute sprint on lap 17. Pobst continued to lead while Fellows picked up four spots and moved into second, trailing Pobst by nearly four seconds when the cars returned to the front straight. Three laps later the gap was down to 0.361-second.

“It was very interesting that we had the opportunity to put on rain tires,” Pobst said. “[To that point] the Porsche was actually quite good. K-PAX/3R Racing made some changes to adapt to the water. I believe, under these conditions, that this is when extra weight can be an advantage to push through the heavy water. There were a couple of places where my light weight Porsche was dancing around and the big Caddys ran me down.”

On lap 21, Fellows went to the inside of Pobst in Turn One to take the lead and earned himself the B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race Award.

“I saw him [Fellows] catching me and I asked my guys in the pits who it was,” Pobst said. “I just don’t think I had enough car to stay ahead of those guys at the level of risk that was smart for me to take – especially in the position I’m in. He out-braked me and made it [the pass] happen.”

“He [Pobst] was a little bit better coming off the slow corners,” Fellows said. “I was better than him in [Turn] 12 and I took one shot at him and then got him the next time. There was a fair amount of grip to the inside and we were able to make it stick.”

“I should have come in a lap sooner [to get the rain tires] and we probably would’ve been at the front the whole time,” Fellows said. “It was the right call by Lynn Bishop. He actually asked me to come in a lap sooner and I didn’t. I waved him off because I did not want to lose [track position]. We’ve been here before at Road Atlanta where you get these massive downpours and it floods the race track.”

As Fellows motored away, Pobst fell into the clutches of yet another Cadillac, that of defending SCCA SPEED GT Champion Aschenbach in the No. 1 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V. Pobst slotted back to third as Aschenbach made the pass for second in Turn 10. Aschenbach gave chase to his teammate as the white flag flew.

With Aschenbach in a tight points battle for the SPEED GT Drivers’ Championship, while Fellows was only competing in his fourth race of the season, the team made the call for Fellows to let Aschenbach around on the back straight, giving the defending Champion his first win of the season by 1.164 seconds.

“I’m here to help them [Team Cadillac],” Fellows said of being passed by his teammate on the last lap. “What we did was helped the manufacturer. I mean, you never like to give up a win, but the right thing to do for the team was to give Lawson the points. He did a great job in the wet hanging in there behind us. If Lawson hadn’t gotten by Pobst, I would’ve been able to win. The right thing to do was to let him get maximum points because we are here to win a Championship.”

It was a strange 55.88-mile, 22-lap race for Aschenbach. A race that featured two cautions and a red flag period that slowed the average speed to 46.178 mph. But the win pushed Ashenbach past teammate Andy Pilgrim in the Championship, just four points behind Pobst who continues to lead. The one-two finish also gives Cadillac a 10-point advantage over Porsche in the SCCA SPEED GT Manufacturers’ Championship presented by RACER Magazine (62 to 52) heading into the final round of the 2007 season and keeps Cadillac undefeated in four World Challenge starts at Road Atlanta. Chevrolet and Dodge sit third and fourth in the Manufacturer points with 50 and 21 points, respectively.

“That caution was a bit strange,” Aschenbach said. “With all of the cautions and pit stops, we were one of the first teams on rain tires. So, I was really shocked when they [SCCA Pro Racing] decided to red flag the race and give everyone their position back. We were actually a bit upset about that, but it worked out for us. For some reason this car and my driving style must suit these conditions because to get a pole and a win in the rain really good. It’s [the win] great for the Championship.”

After winning the SCCA SPEED Touring Car race earlier in the day and starting third on the grid for the SCCA SPEED GT race, Michael Galati, of Olmsted, Ohio, finished fourth in his No. 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT-3. Galati set the fastest lap of the race, a 1:36.996 (94.272 mph) and currently sits fourth in the Drivers’ Championship, 10 points behind Pilgrim (247 to 237).

Making his second SCCA SPEED GT appearance of the year, current SCCA SPEED Touring Car point leader Jeff Altenburg, of Ellicott City, Md., brought the No. 13 Kicker/Woodhouse Performance Dodge Viper home in fifth. He was followed by teammate Jeff Courtney, of Slinger, Wis., in the No. 99 Kenda Tires/Pro MPI Dodge Viper.

Behind Pilgrim, who finished seventh, Gerardo Bonilla (Pontiac GTO) and Jason Daskalos (Dodge Viper) had their best SCCA SPEED GT finishes ever. Daskalos collected the Piloti Rookie of the Race honors. James Sofronas (Porsche 911 GT3) completed the top 10 and took home the Toyo Tires Cup.

The No. 6 RSIG Security Dodge Viper of Jeffrey Robbins earned the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing 13 positions during the race.

The hectic SPEED GT race from Road Atlanta will be broadcast on SPEED, Saturday, Oct. 13, at 3:00 p.m. (EDT). Visit www.world-challenge.com for the latest results and news.

The SCCA SPEED World Challenge Championships next head to Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, October 19 – 21, for the 2007 season finale.

Results from Friday’s 22-lap 55.88-mile SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Nine race, part of the 10th Anniversary Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps and reason out (if any).

1. (4), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 22.
2. (6), Ron Fellows, Mississauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 22, -1.164.
3. (1), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 22, -2.309.
4. (3), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 22, -4.549.
5. (15), Jeff Altenburg, Blair, Neb., Dodge Viper, 22, -12.464.
6. (7), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 22, -12.673.
7. (2), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 22, -13.321.
8. (18), Gerardo Bonilla, Orlando, Fla., Pontiac GTO, 22, -24.462.
9. (16), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 22, -24.826.
10. (8), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 21, -1 lap.
11. (24), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 21, -1 lap.
12. (13), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Chevrolet Corvette, 21, -1 lap.
13. (10), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 21, -1 lap.
14. (5), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 11, Crash.
15. (19), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 10, Crash.
16. (14), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 10, Crash.
17. (11), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 10, Crash.
18. (25), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 10, Crash.
19. (22), Brett Pearson, Orlando, Fla., Dodge Viper, 10, Crash.
20. (9), Tim McKenzie(R), Madison, Wis., Porsche 911 GT-3, 9, Crash.
21. (17), Aaron Baumbach(R), Rochester Hills, Minn., Chevrolet Corvette, 9, Crash.
22. (23), John Bourassa(T), Jupiter Island, Fla., Porsche 911 Turbo, 6, Mech.
23. (21), Jason Foster, Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 2, Crash.
24. (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 0, Crash.
25. (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 0, Crash.
26. (26), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 0, Crash.

Time of race: 12 minutes, 36.299 seconds.
Average speed: 46.178 mph
Margin of victory: 1.164 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-9, #22 Randy Pobst; laps 10-11, #23 Michael Galati; laps 12-20, #22 Randy Pobst; laps 21-21, #16 Ron Fellows; laps 22-22, #1 Lawson Aschenbach
Fastest race lap: #23 Michael Galati, 1:36.996 (94.272 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #22 Randy Pobst, 1:25.689 (106.711 mph)
B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race: #16 Fellows’ pass on #22 Pobst for the lead.
Sunoco Hard Charger: #6 Robbins advances 11 positions
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #5 Daskalos
Toyo Tires Cup: #14 Sofronas

SCCA SPEED GT Drivers' Championship After Nine of 10 Rounds
Ps., Driver, Car, Points (Wins)
1, Randy Pobst, Porsche 911 GT3, 264 (2)
2, Lawson Aschenbach, Cadillac CTS-V, 260 (1)
3, Andy Pilgrim, Cadillac CTS-V, 247 (1)
4, Michael Galati, Porsche 911 GT3, 237
5, Eric Curran, Chevrolet Corvette, 190 (4)
6, Lou Gigliotti, Chevrolet Corvette, 162
7, Tommy Archer, Dodge Viper, 143 (1)
8, Jeff Courtney, Dodge Viper, 143
9, Doug Peterson, Chevrolet Corvette, 137
10, Rob Foster (T), Chevrolet Corvette, 133

SCCA SPEED GT Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER
After Seven of 10 Rounds
Ps., Manufacturer, Points (Wins)
1, Cadillac, 62 (2)
2, Porsche, 52 (2)
2, Chevrolet, 50 (4)
4, Dodge, 21 (1)

Attached image: Lawson Aschenbach takes his first win of 2007 in a wet Road Atlanta race.
Credit: Mark Weber

Posted On 10/5/07

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FormulaRallyX Ends Northern California Leg At Antioch

Thu, 04 Oct 2007 08:41:09 PST

FormulaRallyX Ends Northern California Leg At Antioch
By Jon Olschewski

The solitary state of the dreadfully hot summer has finally been shattered by the churning of dirt under the tires of FRX and CRS RallyX racers. Antioch 2 is the first event of the back half of the series. The day seemed like it would hold a bleak turnout but 53 competitors pulled up to line for some racing. They all enjoyed a range of constant sweepers through a large figure eight; they all hated negotiating the paper clip hairpin; it was a demanding course that drove us hard. Once again the course designer, Peter Cowan has out done himself.

Through all the slippery, muddy runs and dusty reruns it was a hoot to get dirty with our friends. About eight new racers showed up and enjoyed their down and dirty time with the rest. Subarus once again dominated the AWD classes and made for a special scene watching them slip through the courses' twists. Antioch is now gone for the year but we will return next year. The heat of the summer fever has broken, now let's all go out and play!

A special note was made by a spectator: "I'm impressed at the comradery that all of you have. People that are racing against each other will help one another. There was a guy with a blown tire that got assistance from another and a competitor trailering his opponent's car for him even after he lost to the guy that broke. You won't find these kinds of relationships in other forms of racing."

Upcoming FormulaRallyX races include Johnson Valley V on October 21 and the Laughlin International Rally and Motorsports Festival on November 10, 11.

More information about FormulaRallyX can be found at www.formularallyx.com.

Posted On 10/4/07

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Pobst on SPEED GT Pole at Road Atlanta

Thu, 04 Oct 2007 12:05:01 PST

Pobst on SPEED GT Pole at Road Atlanta
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

BRASELTON, Ga. (October 4, 2007) – Randy Pobst, of nearby Gainesville, Ga., put his Porsche on pole with a new qualifying lap record at Road Atlanta for Round Nine of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship, part of the 10th Anniversary Petit Le Mans. Defending race winner Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., will start second.

Sleeping in your own bed during the race week must do wonders, as Pobst sliced 0.722-second off the current SCCA SPEED GT qualifying record at Road Atlanta, putting his No. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 on pole for Friday’s race. The Georgian clocked a time of 1:25.689 (106.711 mph) on his first flying lap around the 2.54-mile road course to capture his 20th career-pole.

“I am lucky to be on such a good team here at K-PAX, 3R Racing,” Pobst said. “It was a bit of a struggle [to get on the pole], because we weren’t quick in the last practice. But, we learned a lot. Will Moody and I sat down and had a long talk and he made some decisions last night that really worked today. He pulled a rabbit right out of the hat. I am very happy and cannot wait for the race to start. I think sleeping 20 minutes away also helps!”

Last year’s race winner, Pilgrim, slotted into the second spot on the grid with a time of 1:25.917 (106.428 mph) in his No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V. Pilgrim’s time was also under the previous qualifying record of 1:26.441 (105.783 mph).

Pobst’s teammate Michael Galati, of Olmstead, Ohio, qualified third on the grid for Friday’s SCCA SPEED GT race after putting his Mazda 6 on pole for the SCCA SPEED Touring Car Race. Galati entered a time of 1:26.036 (106.281 mph), also under the previous record, in his No. 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3.

Defending SCCA SPEED GT Champion Lawson Aschenbach, of W. Palm Beach, Fla., qualified fourth in his No. 1 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose/Cadillac CTS-V, stopping the clocks at 1:26.551 (105.648 mph). Michael McCann, of Canton, Ohio, completes the top five in his No. 82 McCann Plastics/K&N Filters Dodge Viper with a time of 1:26.714 (105.450 mph)

Ron Fellows (Cadillac CTS-V), Jeff Courtney (Dodge Viper), James Sofronas (Porsche 911 GT3), rookie Tim McKenzie (Porsche 911 GT3) and Cindi Lux (Dodge Viper) complete the top ten.

Friday’s SCCA SPEED GT Round Nine race will launch from a standing start at 4:55 p.m. (EDT). The race will be broadcast on SPEED, Saturday, October 13, at 3:00 p.m. (EDT). Live timing and lap notes are available on www.world-challenge.com

Starting lineup for Friday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Nine race, part of the 10th Anniversary Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:25.689, 106.711.
2, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:25.917, 106.428.
3, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:26.036, 106.281.
4, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:26.551, 105.648.
5, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 1:26.714, 105.450.
6, (16), Ron Fellows, Mississauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 1:26.797, 105.349.
7, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 1:26.911, 105.211.
8, (14), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:26.953, 105.160.
9, (66), Tim McKenzie(R), Madison, Wis., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:27.009, 105.092.
10, (2), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 1:27.297, 104.745.
11, (3), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 1:27.475, 104.532.
12, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:27.505, 104.496.
13, (17), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:27.509, 104.492.
14, (31), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:27.548, 104.445.
15, (13), Jeff Altenburg, Blair, Neb., Dodge Viper, 1:27.598, 104.386.
16, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 1:27.724, 104.236.
17, (87), Aaron Baumbach(R), Rochester Hills, Minn., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:27.857, 104.078.
18, (21), Gerardo Bonilla, Orlando, Fla., Pontiac GTO, 1:27.905, 104.021.
19, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:28.018, 103.887.
20, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 1:28.599, 103.206.
21, (18), Jason Foster, Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:28.921, 102.832.
22, (7), Brett Pearson, Orlando, Fla., Dodge Viper, 1:28.981, 102.763.
23, (76), John Bourassa(T), Jupiter Island, Fla., Porsche 911 Turbo, 1:29.427, 102.251.
24, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 1:29.836, 101.785.
25, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:26.451, 105.770.
26, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 1:26.747, 105.410.
Note: No. 30 and No. 28 moved to the back of the grid for technical non-compliance

Posted On 10/4/07

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SCCA Solo Pace Hot Pursuit Candidates Set For Trailer Drawing

Thu, 04 Oct 2007 12:01:31 PST

SCCA Solo Pace Hot Pursuit Candidates Set For Trailer Drawing
By Eric Prill, SCCA

TOPEKA, Kan. (Oct. 4, 2007 ) – Twenty-eight Soloists have been locked in with a shot to win a Pace Pursuit® trailer valued at over $14,000 and will be joined next week by 25 more SCCA Club Racers before the drawing Friday, Oct. 12.

In each of the 10 Tire Rack® SCCA Solo National Tour events, the eligible driver with the closest three runs on each course qualified for the drawing and were presented a special Pace American Hot Pursuit Challenge hat. Additionally, at last week’s Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Championships, one driver from each course on each day was qualified in a similar fashion to fill the final eight spots.

Donna Hill (Tuesday East), Jake Russell (Tuesday West), James Feinberg (Wednesday East), Mary Wentzel (Wednesday West), Bob Tunnell (Thursday East), Bartek Borowski (Thursday West), Steve Wynveen (Friday East) and Todd Milstead (Friday West) all earned event Pace Hot Pursuit Challenge awards at Solo Nationals for having the closest three runs on their given course on each day.

The 28 qualified Solo drivers are:
Brian Johns, Dixie Tour, 2/24/07
Curt Boegemann, Dixie Tour, 2/25/07
Tom Berry, San Diego Tour, 3/17/07
Pilar Miranda, San Diego Tour, 3/18/07
Matt Francavilla, Atwater Tour, 4/14/07
Ryan Otis, Atwater Tour, 4/15/07
Doug Allen, Walnut Ridge Tour, 4/28/07
John Becker, Walnut Ridge Tour, 4/28/07
Jason Isley, Houston Tour, 5/19/07
Wayne Atkins, Houston Tour, 5/20/07
D. Scott Bourne, Huntsville Tour, 6/2/07
Darrin DiSimo, Huntsville Tour, 6/3/07
William Goodale, Devens Tour, 6/9/07
Brian J. Reeves, Devens Tour, 6/10/07
Michael A. Potocki, Peru Tour, 6/30/07
David Heinrich, Peru Tour, 7/1/07
Mark Hirt, Milwaukee Tour, 7/7/07
G.H. Sharp, Milwaukee Tour, 7/8/07
Lorin Mueller, Packwood Tour, 8/18/07
Karl Coleman, Packwood Tour, 8/19/07
Donna Hill, HPT National - East, 9/25/07
Jake Russell, HPT National - West, 9/25/07
James Feinberg, HPT National - East, 9/26/07
Mary Wentzel, HPT National - West, 9/26/07
Bartek Borowski, HPT National - West, 9/27/07
Bob Tunnell, HPT National - East, 9/27/07
Todd Milstead, HPT National - West, 9/28/07
Steve Wynveen, HPT National - East, 9/28/07

Throughout next week’s qualifying sessions for the SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, one driver per class will be qualified for the drawing. The eligible driver with the three fastest laps of the week within the least variance will enter the overall drawing.

The drawing for the Pace Pursuit trailer will be held Friday, Oct. 12 at 12:30 p.m. (Central) and can be heard on the live Webcast of the Runoffs through SCCA.com. To find the live streaming audio, select the Runoffs event page and look for the live audio link.

Pace American
Pace American is the premier manufacturer of enclosed motorsport, cargo, & specialty trailers in the country. Based in Middlebury, Indiana, Pace manufactures 13 different models of steel and aluminum trailers, including the Shadow the most popular motorsports trailer in America and Optima motorhomes. Pace is supported through five manufacturing facilities and over 450 dealers across North America. For more information, please visit www.paceamerican.com.

Attached: Image of Pace Pursuit trailer. Image courtesy of PaceAmerican.com.

Posted On 10/4/07

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24 Hours Of LeMons: TOYOTA WINS DETROIT

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 10:18:56 PST

24 Hours Of LeMons: TOYOTA WINS DETROIT
By Jay Lamm, Chief Perpetrator

("Well, what else is new," GM asks.)

So: We ran 24 hours straight, nailed the two sunny days between rainstorms, and everyone left with the same number of limbs they arrived with. In short, the Detroit LeMons race went a heckuva lot better than expected.

After dominating most of the 24 hours, Detroit was Car & Driver's race to lose--and lose it they did, stepping square on their own Johnsons with a late-race shunt followed by overexuberant Sawz-Alling. (Tech Tip: When lopping off your mangled radiator shroud, don't also lop off your radiator. Better yet, just keep the Sawz-All away from the journalists.)

Poised to pick up the pieces was the fast, loud, rock-steady, not-very-crappy Supra of Team Bernie's Revenge. Final standings are up on the website's Results Page; for pix and videos, use the YouTube and Flickr portals on the Participant Pix Page; for other stuff, a good Winding Road writeup just came out and Car Lounge has a really good post-race thread. Or you can just Google away--more junk comes up every couple of hours.

Big thanks to everyone who raced and crewed; to Flat Rock's on-the-ball staff and our bungload of volunteers; the knots of confused spectators; Dan, ArcAngel, and Nick; fellow BS judges David E., Csaba, and Steve; and everyone else. (And if I forgot you just now, my apologies. It's spam, not an Oscar speech.)

Next up: Altamont II on 20-21 October. And no, I don't remember why I put them so damn close together. I was just wondering that myself.

Assorted civilities & platitudes--JL

Jay Lamm, Chief Perpetrator
24 HOURS OF LeMONS
5675 Horton Street, Suite C
Emeryville CA 94608

Posted On 10/3/07

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Wittmer Fastest SPEED Touring Car in Road Atlanta Practice

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 10:12:51 PST

Wittmer Fastest SPEED Touring Car in Road Atlanta Practice
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

BRASELTON, Ga. (October 3, 2007) – Kuno Wittmer, of Montreal, Quebec, was the quickest car in practice for Round Nine of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Championships at Road Atlanta, part of the 10th Anniversary Petit Le Mans. Seth Thomas, of nearby Cumming, Ga., was second fastest, followed by Pierre Kleinubing, of Coconut Creek, Fla.

The second practice session for the SCCA SPEED Touring Cars had none of light rain experienced in the morning session, although the overcast skies remained. Running on the same tires as the morning session and testing out his race trim, Wittmer was unable to top his morning time of 1:32.890 (98.439 mph) in the 20-minute afternoon session.

“This morning we had newer tires on the car and we kept the same tires on in the afternoon, so we were just trying to get a proper race setup on the car,” Wittmer said. “We know we have a good qualifying setup, but the race setup is what counts. Pierre and myself showed that we have good race setups, because all of our laps were within two tenths or so. We have a really good car right now for Friday’s race.

“Track conditions changed a little bit. It got greasier because of the ALMS cars. It also got a little bit warmer and more humid, but nothing crazy.”

Wittmer’s No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura RSX is the same car Eric Curran used to win the pole last year at Road Atlanta and Wittmer admits there weren’t many changes that needed to be done from last year’s set-up.

“Eric Curran proved that the car could be pretty quick around here, so I said, ‘why don’t we just start with what Eric did last year. Then we changed a couple of things to suit my driving style. It’s proven to be really good again.”

Georgia driver Thomas remained second fastest of the day, turning a 1:33.091 (98.226 mph) in the morning session at the wheel of his No. 38 Bimmerworld BMW 325i.

In the second session, Wittmer’s teammate and defending SCCA SPEED Touring Car Champion Pierre Kleinubing improved to a 1:33.132 (98.226 mph) in his No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura TSX, holding onto the third spot.

RealTime Racing team owner Peter Cunningham, of Grafton, Wis., was fourth fastest. The No. 42 Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura TSX driver entered a time of 1:33.388 (97.914 mph). Brandon Davis, of Denver, Colo., completed the top five in his No. 43 Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura TSX with a time of 1:33.431 (97.914 mph), which he clocked in the second session.

James Clay (BMW 325i), Ian Baas (Audi A4), Michael Galati (Mazda 6), Nick Esayian (Acura TSX) and Jeff Altenburg (Mazda 6) completed the top ten.

Qualifying for Round Nine of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED Touring Car Championship will take place at 1 p.m. on Thursday. The race will launch from a standing start at 10:45 a.m. (EDT) on Friday. Live timing and lap notes are available at www.world-challenge.com

Combined practice results for Friday’s SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round Nine race, part of the 10th Anniversary Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 1:32.890, 98.439.
2, (38), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 1:33.091, 98.226.
3, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 1:33.132, 98.183.
4, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 1:33.388, 97.914.
5, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 1:33.431, 97.869.
6, (36), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 1:33.466, 97.832.
7, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 1:33.479, 97.818.
8, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 1:33.494, 97.803.
9, (34), Nick Esayian(T), Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 1:33.634, 97.656.
10, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 1:33.706, 97.581.
11, (19), Adam Pecorari, Aston, Pa., Audi A4, 1:33.756, 97.529.
12, (29), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 1:33.817, 97.466.
13, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 1:33.835, 97.447.
14, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 1:33.879, 97.402.
15, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 1:34.178, 97.092.
16, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 1:34.443, 96.820.
17, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 1:34.580, 96.680.
18, (16), Phil Parlato(T), Commack, N.Y., BMW 325i, 1:36.217, 95.035.
19, (24), Jim Osborn(T), Ooltewah, N.J., Volkswagen Jetta TDI, 1:37.339, 93.939.
20, (49), Carl Hober, Cape May, N.J., Acura TSX, 1:39.090, 92.279.

Attached image: No. 44 Acura RSX of Kuno Wittmer, the fastest SCCA SPEED Touring Car in Wednesday’s practice at Road Atlanta.
Credit: Mark Weber

Posted On 10/3/07

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NASA: 25 Hour Entry List and Sound Updates

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 10:09:19 PST

NASA: 25 Hour Entry List and Sound Updates
By Jerry Kunzman

NASA has made available the latest entry list for the 25 Hours Of Thunderhill here.

Jerry Kunzman, NASA Norcal Regional Director, also says:

There has been a sound limit adjustment to the 25 Hour. Last year it was 103 dBA until 6pm, then 98 dBA after 6pm. This was measured at 50’.

This year it will be 95 dBA at 100’. Before you go into a tailspin, get out the calculators. This is exactly the same as 101 at 50’. So, this is a compromise, but at least we have a constant sound limit. The supps have not yet been updated to reflect this new (and greatly simplified) rule.

For more information on the NASA 25 Hours Of Thunderhill, and all other NASA activities, please visit www.nasaproracing.com.

Posted On 10/3/07

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Gigliotti Fastest in SPEED GT Practice at Road Atlanta

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 10:04:37 PST

Gigliotti Fastest in SPEED GT Practice at Road Atlanta
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

BRASELTON, Ga., (October 3, 2007) – Lou Gigliotti, of Dallas, Texas, paced the field in morning practice for Round Nine of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship, part of the 10th Anniversary Petit Le Mans. Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., and Michael Galati, of Olmsted, Ohio, were second and third fastest, respectively.

Despite a steady sprinkle in the closing moments of the 20-minute practice session, Gigliotti put his No. 28 LG Pro Long Tube Headers Chevrolet Corvette on the top of the time sheets with a 1:26.118 (106.179 mph) on his final hot lap. The time is under the current qualifying record of 1:26.441 (105.783 mph).

“It was sprinkling in the last little bit of the session and I think we could have gotten another couple of tenths,” Gigliotti said. “We need another five tenths for the pole. I know we have a top three, top four car. I don’t know if we have a number one car.

“I love Road Atlanta,” Gigliotti added. “I love high-speed tracks. Any track with 120 mph corners is my kind of race track. If we have a dry line, it’s going to be a hell of a race.”

Current SCCA SPEED GT point leader Pobst ended the session in second. The Georgia driver entered a time of 1:26.211 (106.065 mph) in his No. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3. His teammate, Galati, in the No. 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 was third fastest with a time of 1:26.379 (105.859 mph).

The pair were leading the session before a red flag came out for the No. 82 McCann Plastics/K&N Filters Dodge Viper of Michal McCann, which made contact with the wall in Turn One. McCann was uninjured, but the car suffered significant front-end damage.

Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., led the Cadillac contingent in his No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V, finishing the session in fourth with a time of 1:26.391 (105.844 mph). Eric Curran, of East Hampton, Mass., winner of the previous two races, was fifth fastest. The driver of the No. 30 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette put in a time of 1:26.474 (105.742 mph).

Defending SCCA SPEED GT Champion Lawson Aschenbach (Cadillac CTS-V) ended the session in sixth, followed by teammate Ron Fellows (Cadillac CTS-V).

Brian Kubinski (Chevrolet Corvette), James Sofronas (Porsche 911 GT3) and Cindi Lux (Dodge Viper), completed the top ten.

The second SCCA SPEED GT practice session will go green at 5:25 p.m. (EDT) today. Qualifying is set for 1:20 p.m. on Thursday. Live timing and lap notes are available at www.world-challenge.com.

Results from practice session one for Friday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Round Nine race, part of the 10th Anniversary Petit Le Mans Atlanta at Road Atlanta, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 1:26.118, 106.179.
2, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:26.211, 106.065.
3, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:26.379, 105.859.
4, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:26.391, 105.844.
5, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:26.474, 105.742.
6, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:26.646, 105.532.
7, (16), Ron Fellows, Mississauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 1:26.647, 105.531.
8, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:26.926, 105.193.
9, (14), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:26.976, 105.132.
10, (2), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 1:27.163, 104.906.
11, (66), Tim McKenzie(R), Madison, Wis., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:27.199, 104.863.
12, (31), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:27.365, 104.664.
13, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 1:27.427, 104.590.
14, (21), Gerardo Bonilla, Orlando, Fla., Pontiac GTO, 1:27.540, 104.455.
15, (17), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:27.581, 104.406.
16, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 1:27.718, 104.243.
17, (3), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 1:27.771, 104.180.
18, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 1:27.962, 103.954.
19, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 1:28.004, 103.904.
20, (87), Aaron Baumbach(R), Rochester Hills, Minn., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:28.235, 103.632.
21, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:29.203, 102.507.
22, (13), Jeff Altenburg, Blair, Neb., Dodge Viper, 1:29.428, 102.249.
23, (7), Brett Pearson, Orlando, Fla., Dodge Viper, 1:29.662, 101.983.
24, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 1:29.706, 101.933.
25, (76), John Bourassa(T), Jupiter Island, Fla., Porsche 911 Turbo, 1:29.984, 101.618.
26, (18), Jason Foster, Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:30.588, 100.940.

Attached image: The No. 28 Chevrolet Corvette of Lou Gigliotti
Credit: Mark Weber

Posted On 10/3/07

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Wittmer Paces Morning SPEED Touring Car Practice at Road Atlanta

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 10:01:07 PST

Wittmer Paces Morning SPEED Touring Car Practice at Road Atlanta
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

BRASELTON, Ga. (October 3, 2007) – Kuno Wittmer, of Montreal, Quebec, needed only a lap at Road Atlanta to lay down the fastest practice time of the morning. Seth Thomas, of Cumming, Ga., and Pierre Kleinubing, of Coconut Creek, Fla., were second and third fastest, respectively, in the first of two practice sessions for Round Nine of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship, part of the 10th Anniversary Petit Le Mans.

A light drizzle began to fall on the SCCA SPEED Touring Cars as they made their way on course for the 20-minute morning practice session, but that didn’t stop Wittmer from turning a time of 1:32.890 (98.439 mph), more than half a second faster than the current qualifying lap record of 1:33.523 (97.772 mph).

“The first ten minutes were fine. It was very dry,” Wittmer said. “There were a couple of sprinkles, but nothing that could wet the track completely. I came in a couple times for changes and the car got a little bit better. The last half of the season it was raining quite a bit more and it wasn’t really worth it. The track was still pretty dry, but it was slick in places.”

Wittmer’s No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura RSX is the same car Eric Curran used to win the pole last year at Road Atlanta and Wittmer admits there weren’t many changes that needed to be done from last year’s set-up.

“Eric Curran proved that the car could be pretty quick around here, so I said, ‘why don’t we just start with what Eric did last year. Then we changed a couple of things to suit my driving style. It’s proven to be really good again.”

Georgia driver Thomas was second-fastest in the session, turning a 1:33.091 (98.226 mph) in his No. 38 Bimmerworld BMW 325i.

Wittmer’s teammate and defending SCCA SPEED Touring Car Champion Pierre Kleinubing ended the session in third, posting a 1:33.367 (97.936 mph) in his No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura TSX.

RealTime Racing team owner Peter Cunningham, of Grafton, Wis., was fourth fastest. The No. 42 Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura TSX driver entered a time of 1:33.388 (97.914 mph). James Clay, of Blacksburg, Va., who was back in the car for the first time since Toronto, completed the top five, turning a 1:33.466 (97.832 mph) in his No. 36 Bimmerworld BMW 325i.

Michael Galati was the fastest Mazda 6 in sixth, followed by the quickest Audi A4 of Ian Baas and the Acura TSX of Brandon Davis., all of whom entered times under the current qualifying record.

Charles Espenalaub (Mazda 6) and Chip Herr (Audi A4) completed the top ten.

The second practice session for Round Nine of the SCCA SPEED Touring Car Championship is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. (EDT) today. Qualifying will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday. Live timing and lap notes are available at www.world-challenge.com

Results from practice session one for Friday's SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round Nine race, part of the 10th Anniversary Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 1:32.890, 98.439.
2, (38), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 1:33.091, 98.226.
3, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 1:33.367, 97.936.
4, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 1:33.388, 97.914.
5, (36), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 1:33.466, 97.832.
6, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 1:33.494, 97.803.
7, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 1:33.510, 97.786.
8, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 1:33.516, 97.780.
9, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 1:33.835, 97.447.
10, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 1:33.879, 97.402.
11, (19), Adam Pecorari, Aston, Pa., Audi A4, 1:33.927, 97.352.
12, (29), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 1:33.980, 97.297.
13, (34), Nick Esayian(T), Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 1:34.256, 97.012.
14, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 1:34.307, 96.960.
15, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 1:34.551, 96.709.
16, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 1:34.807, 96.448.
17, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 1:35.158, 96.092.
18, (16), Phil Parlato(T), Commack, N.Y., BMW 325i, 1:37.048, 94.221.
19, (24), Jim Osborn(T), Ooltewah, N.J., Volkswagen Jetta TDI, 1:39.139, 92.234.
20, (49), Carl Hober, Cape May, N.J., Acura TSX, 1:39.415, 91.978.
21, (31), Jameson Riley, Wilton, Conn., Volvo S40, no time.
22, (37), Joey Hand, Sacramento, Calif., BMW 325i, no time.

Attached image: Kuno Wittmer leads Seth Thomas in practice at Road Atlanta.
Credit: Mark Weber

Posted On 10/3/07

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BimmerWorld Rolls Into Road Atlanta With All Fingers Crossed

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 09:57:08 PST

BimmerWorld Rolls Into Road Atlanta With All Fingers Crossed
By Bimmerworld Media Services

After a season of ups and downs, the Virginia-based team is primed for a positive end to the season.

Dublin, VA (10/3/07) -- BimmerWorld Racing has endured a more challenging year than they’d hoped for; with two races left to run in 2007, the Dublin, Virginia based team has this weekends round at Road Atlanta pegged for a reversal of fortune.

With BimmerWorld owner/driver James Clay forced to miss the last two rounds—the most recent due to a dislocated shoulder, he’s especially anxious to strap into his #36 BMW E90 for the Petit Le Mans weekend. Despite his eagerness to get back behind the wheel, he’ll need to be mindful of his sore right shoulder while shifting two dozens time a lap.

Clay’s progress towards recovery has been steady and aggressive. “I have really felt like I was coming along well since day one, and have really been pushing the rehab times and shortening my appointments that the Doc requested. I’ve been into sports for a long time and I recover at a very quick rate typically, so I was happy to see that this injury is following the trend. I got pretty worried last week when I realized we are so close to the race weekend and I was still having some pretty intense pain at times, but every week is significantly better than the last, and this one was pretty good, so I am optimistic. I’ve been in a car a few times in the past two weeks and while it may not be a full success, I know I will be race-ready.”

With Clay as fit as possible for Road Atlanta, the only question remaining is how hard he can push with a shoulder that’s not yet at 100%. Will his shoulder be up to it? “It’s really hard to tell. I’ve been determined to drive this race from a day or two after my injury and it has gotten me this far, so maybe determination can carry me through the weekend.”

It’s widely believed that every ounce of bad luck has been used up on James Clay this year. “You would really think there is nothing left, but I have made that mistake before. I have my fingers crossed, lucky socks on, and have been getting out of the right side of the bed every morning, so I am doing my part!” Finishing the season on a high note is also a key motivator for Clay. “A true positive end would be a win at the home track (Road Atlanta) for me or the team. We have put in 4 days of testing there recently, so we are really working hard and loaded for bear. In a few days, we will know!”

With 2008 around the corner, Clay is already thinking forward to next season and some time off before 2008 ramps up. “I am absolutely looking forward to next season, but honestly, I am looking forward to a little time off first! It seems like we have solved our reliability problems this year and my time behind the scenes for the last couple of races has allowed me to get the other view that I never get from the driver's seat. We have a lot of improvements on the way and I can't wait for a full run at 2008 to prove our abilities. But for now, we are all looking to finish up 2007 strong.”

Seth Thomas, Georgia native and pilot of the #38 Thomas Lumber BimmerWorld BMW E90, marks his home race at Road Atlanta every year as the most personal and most important event on the calendar. With a paddock full of supports, Thomas carries a lot of added expectations for this event.

Tell us about your feeling on your home race--an event that also serves as the 10th anniversary of Petit Le Mans

“Wow! Now the pressure is on! Being on the home turf is going to be a huge help. I get to sleep in my own bed for a change, so I should be nice and relaxed all week. The main focus though is showing how well the BMW’s run at Road Atlanta and to come away with BimmerWorld's second win of the season. This is the track that I should be able to do it on. It will be interesting, however, with the new paving they did this year. The grip level is going to be higher and the lap times are going to be a lot faster. This is where I am counting on my home track experience to pay off. I’ve now driven the new surface several times in both the Touring car and other fast cars. This experience should pay dividends this weekend.”

Thomas has also been on the cusp of his first win this year—what does he need to break through? Is it just a case of good timing and opportunity at this point? “Definitely up until this point of the season everything has been about timing. My timing has been off as far as either being in the wrong place on track or having something wrong happen. I wouldn't call it a bad luck deal; it’s just been bad timing. The E90 has been fast for me all year. It has performed well in qualifying and well in a couple of the races. This is my time, though. After coming off Mosport where my car was the fastest car on track I am looking for this to happen again.”

Seth has similar goals to his team mate James Clay for the final two races. “That’s simple: win, and bring home some trophies for the BimmerWorld Boys to display in the shop. I have two of my favorite tracks to end the season off with and I plan on capitalizing on that.”

What kind of Thomas family and guest support can we expect to see at Road Atlanta next week? “My whole family comes out for this race. With us living about 30 minutes from the track, everybody from my grandfather, to my aunts, uncles and cousins come out. I have a lot of friends that were huge supporters of me that will be there. It seems everybody likes to watch the start of the race from the front straight and then they move to turn 10A for remainder of the race. It will also be nice to have them all here to cheer me on as I try to get my first win. If there is a track that I want to do it at more than any it is Road Atlanta. Plus it would make my Dad, Mom and Grandfather the happiest people on earth to do it with them there!”

Stay tuned for reports from Road Atlanta as BimmerWorld fights for a second win in 2007.

BimmerWorld Media Services
mediaservices@bimmerworld.com

http://www.bimmerworld.com
http://www.bimmerworldracing.com
http://www.powerflexusa.com
Race Proven BMW Performance
877.639.9648

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Posted On 10/3/07

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Final Champions Crowned at 35th Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Championships

Fri, 28 Sep 2007 09:32:46 PST

Final Champions Crowned at 35th Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Championships
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Sept. 28, 2007) – There were a slew of first-time champions on the closing day of the 35th Tire Rack® SCCA Solo National Championships.

Although there weren’t many day one leaders who fell on the final day of competition, two drivers made up enough time on day two to earn their first National Championships. In E Modified Jeff Kiesel ended Thursday’s heats in second, but ended today’s contest in first behind the wheel of a 3-Rotor Sprite to take his first Solo National Championship. Carol Kolk in A Stock Ladies also captured her first Championship in a Pontiac Solstice GXP, after starting the day in third.

Jason Frank and Jason Collett were both first time Champions in some of the largest classes of the event. Collett topped 59 other A Stockers in his Honda S2000 to bag his first Championship, while Frank beat out the Street Touring S field by an extraordinary 1.151 seconds in his Honda Civic Si

Local driver Ron Williams also took home his first National Championship driving a Mini Cooper S in G Stock, beating defending Champion Craig Wilcox by a narrow margin of 0.017-second.

There were just as many repeat titlists however, some in the double digits. Patty Tunnell earned her 12th National Championship when she took victory in X Prepared Ladies. Katie Elder nabbed her fifth-straight Street Touring® S Ladies Title. Suzanne Valerie Segal, Tom Ellam and Christina Libecco are now six-time Champions. Ellam’s Title came after breaking a day-one tie with Christopher Dorsey in E Prepared. Ellam took his second-straight EP Championship in a Mazda RX-3 by 0.204-second over Robert J Foley’s Honda Civic.

Wendi Lynne Allen also earned her sixth National Championship, successfully defending her G Stock Ladies crown after being 0.425-second back in third on Thursday.

After four fun days of competition, the 2007 Tire Rack Solo National Championships have come to a close and thus concluded the Solo National season. Tires are likely already on order for next year and a 2008 Solo schedule will be announced early in the new year. Visit www.scca.com for full results and the latest Solo news.

National Champions from the final 34 classes competing Thursday and Friday in the 35th Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Championships at Heartland Park Topeka with class, driver, hometown, car and notes. Drivers in bold with asterisk after class were not the day one leader. Results are provisional.

A Stock: Jason Collett, Knoxville, Tenn., Honda S2000, First National Championship
A Stock L*: Carol L Kolk, White Lake, Mich., Pontiac Solstice GXP, First National Championship
A Street Prepared: Michael Johnson, Glen Allen, Va., Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Third National Championship, Second Straight
A Street Prepared L: Diane Johnson, Glen Allen, Va., Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Second National Championship
B Stock: Jason Isley, Ladera Ranch, Calif., Mazda RX-8; Second Straight National Championship
B Stock L: Jennifer Isley, Ladera Ranch, Calif., Mazda RX-8, Third National Championship
B Street Prepared: Tom Berry, Alta Loma, Calif., Mitsubishi Evo IV, Fourth National Championship
B Street Prepared L: Christine Berry, Alta Loma, Calif., Mitsubishi Evo I, First National Championship
D Prepared*: Keith Brown, Des Moines, Wash., Mazda Miata, Second National Championship
D Prepared L: Kim M Wilson, Bowling Green, Ky., Toyota MR2 Spyder, First National Championship
D Stock: Bartek Borowski, Elmwood, Ill., Acura Integra, 0.249-second, Second Straight National Championship
D Stock L*: Karen Kraus, Frederick, Md., Subaru Impreza WRX, -0.061, First National Championship
E Modified*: Jeff Kiesel, Poway, Calif., 3Rotor Sprite, First National Championship
E Modified L: Ann S Vogel, Tulsa, Okla., Mazda Miata, Fourth National Championship, Second Straight
E Prepared: Tom Ellam, Livermore, Calif., Mazda RX3, Sixth National Championship, Second Straight
E Prepared L: Jennifer Lee, Honolulu, Hawaii, Mazda RX3, Third National Championship
E Street Prepared: Mark Madarash, Red Oak, Texas, Pontiac Trans-Am, Third National Championship
E Street Prepared L: Lorien Feighner, Howell, Mich., Ford Mustang, Second National Championship
F Modified: Gary E Kramar, Arlington, Texas, Red Devil F500, Third National Championship, Second Straight
F Modified L: Christina Libecco, Warren, Ohio, KBS MKVII, Sixth National Championship, Third Straight
F Stock: Sam Strano, Knoxdale, Pa., Ford Shelby Mustang, Fourth National Championship, Second Straight
F Stock L: Jennifer Merideth, Westland, Mich., Ford Mustang Shelby Cobra, Fourth National Championship
Formula 125: Jeremiah McClinktock, Commerce Township, Mich., Renspeed Fast; Second-Straight National Championship
Formula 125L: Suzanne Valerie Segal, Las Vegas, Nev., Birel CR32, Sixth National Championship, Fourth Straight
G Stock: Ron Williams, Topeka, Kan., Mini Cooper S, First National Championship
G Stock L*: Wendi Lynne Allen, Jacksonville Beach, Fla., Mini Cooper S, Sixth National Championship, Second Straight
Street Touring S: Jason Frank, Racine, Wis., Honda Civic Si, First National Championship
Street Touring S L: Katie Elder, Folsom, Calif., Honda Civic Si, Tenth National Championship, Fifth Straight
Street Touring Ultra: James Eric Paulson, Portland, Ore., Subaru WRX STi, First National Championship
Street Touring Ultra L*: Amy Fair, Fairview, Texas, BMW M3, Second Straight National Championship
Street Touring Xtreme: Chris Fenter, Appleton, Wis., Subaru Impreza WRX, First National Championship
Street Touring Xztreme L: Amy Coleman, Renton, Wash., Subaru WRX, First National Championship
X Prepared: Bob Tunnell, Superior, Colo., BMW M3, Sixth National Championship, Second-Straight
X Prepared L: Patty Tunnell, Superior, Colo., BMW M3, Twelfth National Championship

Attached Image: Winning D Prepared earned Keith Brown his second National Championship
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 9/28/07

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Second Crop of Classes Halfway to an SCCA Solo National Championship

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 07:38:39 PST

Second Crop of Classes Halfway to an SCCA Solo National Championship
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Sept. 27, 2007) – The remaining 34 Solo National classes have kicked off the second half of competition at the 35th Tire Rack ® Solo National Championships at Heartland Park Topeka.

After finishing runner-up in B Stock Ladies last year, Jennifer Isley could be en route to her third National Championship. Running a Mazda RX-8, Isley currently sits a comfortable 1.245 seconds ahead of Debbie Kerswill in another Mazda RX-8.

Husband and defending B Stock Champion Jason Isely is the day one leader in his Mazda RX-8, but is under extreme pressure from rookie Doug Rowse. Also driving an RX-8, Rowse is more than impressive in his Solo National debut, ending day one just 0.032-second behind two-time Champion Isley.

It’s a team Tunnell and Team Beecher face-off in the X Prepared classes. Bob and Patty Tunnell lead Richard and Barbara Beecher in X Prepared and X Prepared Ladies. Appropriately the couples are facing off in rival German machinery; the Tunnells are at the wheel of a BMW M3, while the Beechers pilot a Porsche RSR.

D Stock is shaping up to be a rematch from 2006. Defending champion Bartek Borowski in an Acura ITR, trails last year’s runner-up Kinch Reindl in a Acura Integra by 0.249-second. If he can maintain the gap on Friday, it will be Reindl’s first National Championship.

Things keep getting better for Mike “Junior” Johnson. After winning this year’s Tire Rack® ProSolo National Championship less than a week ago, he finds himself leading A Street Prepared by 0.683-second in his Chevrolet Corvette Z06. Johnson is the defending ASP Champion.

With the exception of the tie in E Prepared between Tom Ellam and Christopher Dorsey, G Stock Ladies is the closest battle going into day two and it’s between two ladies looking for their first National Championships. Both in Mini Coopers, Brianne Corn currently leads Mindi Cross by slim 0.006-second.

The final day of competition for the 2007 Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Championships begins Friday at 8:00 a.m. (CDT). The classes will switch courses from West to East and East to West. Today’s best times, along with Friday’s, will be added together to determine the class Champion.

For complete results from the event, please visit www.scca.com.

Top two runners in each of the 34 classes competing Thursday and Friday in the 35th Tire Rack® SCCA Solo National Championships at Heartland Park Topeka with class, leading driver, hometown and car; second place driver, hometown, car and gap behind first place. Results are provisional.

A Stock: Jason Collett, Knoxville, Tenn., Honda S2000; 2, Eric Stemler, Peoria, Ill., Pontiac Solstice GXP, -0.207-second.
A Stock L: Diana Carris, Hopewell Junction, N.Y., Subaru STi; 2, Denise Cashmore, New Berlin, Wis., Chevrolet Corvette, -0.265 second
A Street Prepared: Michael Johnson, Glen Allen, Va., Chevrolet Corvette Z06; 2, Rod McGeorge, Tappahannock, Va., Chevrolet Corvette Z06, -0.683-second
A Street Prepared L: Diane Johnson, Glen Allen, Va., Chevrolet Corvette Z06; 2, Natha A Waldbaum, Omaha, Neb., -3.679 seconds
B Stock: Jason Isley, Ladera Ranch, Calif., Mazda RX-8; 2, Doug Rowse, Phoeniz, Ariz., Mazda RX-8, -0.032 second
B Stock L: Jennifer Isley, Ladera Ranch, Calif., Mazda RX-8; 2, Debbie Kerswill, Reno, Nev., Mazda RX-8, -1.245 seconds
B Street Prepared: Tom Berry, Alta Loma, Calif., Mitsubishi Evo IV; 2, Marshall Grice, Mitsubishi Evo IV, -0.702-second
B Street Prepared L: Christine Berry, Alta Loma, Calif., Mitsubishi Evo I; 2, Lisa Savage, Fort Worth, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, -5.136 seconds
D Prepared: Steve Hoelscher, St. Augustine, Fla., Toyota MR2; Keith Brown, Des Moines, Wash., Mazda Miata, -0.261-second
D Prepared L: Kim M Wilson, Bowling Green, Ky., Toyota MR2 Spyder; 2, Anne Robinson, Highland, Ind., Toyota MR2 Spyder, -1.893 seconds
D Stock: Kinch Reindl, Denver, Colo., Acura ITR; 2, Bartek Borowski, Elmwood, Ill., Acura Integra, 0.249-second
D Stock L: Pamela J Earnes, Meridian, Idaho, Volkswagen R32; 2, Karen Kraus, Frederick, Md., Subaru Impreza WRX, -0.061
E Modified: Dan Wasdahl, Massillon, Ohio, Lotus Europa; 2, Jeff Kiesel, Poway, Calif., -0.329-second
E Modified L: Ann S Vogel, Tulsa, Okla., Mazda Miata; 2, Debra Pruett, Kansas City, Mo., Lotus 7, -0.320-second
E Prepared: Tom Ellam, Livermore, Calif., Mazda RX3; 2, Christopher Dorsey, Littleton, Colo., Honda CRX, tie
E Prepared L: Jennifer Lee, Honolulu, Hawaii, Mazda RX3; no other competitors
E Street Prepared: Mark Madarash, Red Oak, Texas, Pontiac Trans-Am; 2, Mark Jorgensen, Omaha, Neb., Ford Mustang Cobra, -0.144-second
E Street Prepared L: Lorien Feighner, Howell, Mich., Ford Mustang; 2, Lorae Myers, Howell, Mich., Ford Mustang, 0.444-second
F Modified: Gary E Kramar, Arlington, Texas, Red Devil F500; 2, Jeff Blumenthal, Independence, Ohio, KBS Mk7, -0.615-second
F Modified L: Christina Libecco, Warren, Ohio, KBS MKVII; 2, Robin Lumb, Plymouth Meeting, Pa., Raptor F500, -3.030 seconds
F Stock: Sam Strano, Knoxdale, Pa., Ford Shelby Mustang; 2, Van A Michael, Turbotville, Pa., Ford Mustang, -1.064 seconds
F Stock L: Jennifer Merideth, Westland, Mich., Ford Mustang Shelby Cobra; 2, Crissy Weaver, Beavercreek, Ore., Ford Mach 1, -1.268 seconds
Formula 125: Jeremiah McClinktock, Commerce Township, Mich., Renspeed Fast; 2, Mitch Fagundes, Clovis, Calif., CRG Road Rebel, -0.496-second
Formula 125L: Suzanne Valerie Segal, Las Vegas, Nev., Birel CR32; 2, Karen J Craner, Idaho Falls, Idaho, GPracing CR125, -1.255 seconds
G Stock: Ron Williams, Topeka, Kan., Mini Cooper S; 2, Eric Kriemelmeyer, Pomfret, Md., Nissan Spec-V, -0.036-second
G Stock L: Brianne Corn, San Marcos, Texas, Mini Cooper S; 2, Mindi Cross, Phoenix, Ariz., Mini Cooper S, -0.006-second
Street Touring S: Jason Frank, Racine, Wis., Honda Civic Si; 2, Kevin McCormick, Lincoln, Calif., Honda Civic Si, -0.171-second
Street Touring S L: Katie Elder, Folsom, Calif., Honda Civic Si; 2, Julie J Avard, Topeka, Kan., Honda Civic Si, -0.896-second
Street Touring Ultra: James Eric Paulson, Portland, Ore., Subaru WRX STi; 2, Jerry Irvine, Lenexa, Kan., Mitsubishi Evo IX, -0.260-second
Street Touring Ultra L: Mary E Bahr, West Salem, Wis., Subaru STi; 2, Meredith Najewicz, Mableton, Ga., Subaru STi, -0.054-second
Street Touring Xtreme: Chris Fenter, Appleton, Wis., Subaru Impreza WRX; 2, Neal Tovsen, Saint Paul, Minn., BMW 325is, -0.556-second
Street Touring Xztreme L: Amy Coleman, Renton, Wash., Subaru WRX; 2, Shauna Rios, Corona, Calif., Subaru Impreza WRX, -1.241 seconds
X Prepared: Bob Tunnell, Superior, Colo., BMW M3; 2, Richard Beecher, Davie, Fla., Porsche RSR, -0.861-second
X Prepared L: Patty Tunnell, Superior, Colo., BMW M3; 2, Barbara Beecher, Davie, Fla., Porsche RSR, 0.477-second

Attached image: Patty Tunnell currently leads X Prepared Ladies in a 1995 BMW M3, her husband Bob leads X Prepared in the same car.
Credit: Eric Prill

Posted On 9/27/07

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Chip Herr Takes Another 2nd @ Mosport's Touring Car Race

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 07:34:12 PST

Chip Herr Takes Another 2nd @ Mosport's Touring Car Race
By Chip Herr

08.26.07 Bowmanville, ON, CA : After qualifying 1-2-3, the STaSIS team put together their best showing ever, capturing 1st, 2nd and 8th in the hard-fought 2007 Grand Prix of Mosport, SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car race.

In dry, overcast conditions, Adam Pecorari scored his first ever World Challenge win in his #19 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Pfaff Audi A4, starting from the pole and holding the lead for all but the first lap. Chip Herr, always quick on the standing start, launched his #17 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Pfaff Audi A4 into the lead. He controlled the first lap, but a minor bobble in lap two allowed Pecorari to take the lead, which he never relinquished. Herr did yeoman’s work holding off the field after Ian Baas fell back a few positions early in the race. Baas, who qualified 3rd, was driving his #18 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Pfaff Audi A4 with a broken wrist. His gutsy effort paid off with an 8th place finish, moving him into 10th overall in the driver’s standings.

After taking his first World Challenge victory Pecorari was ecstatic: “This is the best! The whole weekend was a team effort. It was great starting up front with Chip and Ian.”

Following the race Herr said, “On lap two coming onto the front straight, the front end pushed, I had to get off the throttle and run wide a little. Adam had a great run on me, took the line and I just tucked in behind him. I actually couldn’t catch him for most of the race after that. I fell back a bit and saw the field coming on strong. I had to watch my mirrors and at the same time try to set up a draft with Adam.”
After his the race, Baas said, “I did the best I could—I drove the wheels off it. I am happy to finish in the top 10 and I’m looking forward to the last two races.”

STaSIS crew chief Andrew Brennan was happy with his team’s results, commenting, “I’m very proud of the whole team. I’m especially proud that the team had quick cars in the wet, the damp and the dry—getting each of those setups right is a real team effort. Every mechanic did their part this week, Adam and Chip raced hard together, Ian gutted it out with a broken wrist and we got great support from our sponsor Pfaff Audi.”

The SPEED World Challenge round 8 at the 2007 Grand Prix of Mosport will be aired on SPEED Saturday, September 1st at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

> More News at www.ChipHerr.com

Posted On 9/27/07

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UUC Motorwerks Gets a Hat Trick at Road Atlanta BMW CCA Club Race

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 04:34:58 PST

UUC Motorwerks Gets a Hat Trick at Road Atlanta BMW CCA Club Race
By UUC Motorwerks

UUC Motorwerks Gets a Hat Trick at Road Atlanta!

The weather was hot, but the tires were hotter at über-challenging Road Atlanta this past weekend, 9/22-9/23/2007.

Friday qualifying resulted in a comfortable pole in J-Prepared for Arjun Soundararajan in his #54 325i. Spec E36 King Tim Smith and his co-driver Doug Thomas got a close second for the start of the enduro that afternoon in the #22 car. The 90 minute enduro put the spotlight on consistent lapping from the UUC drivers earning a first place finish for Arjun in JP and a second for Tim and Doug in Spec E36.

Qualifying on Saturday brought more success for UUC with poles for both drivers. At the start of the sprint race, Arjun and Tim battled the pandemonium at turn one to gain positions and set the pace for another win in both classes.

Pressure rose with the mercury on Sunday and the Georgia clay was flying as the two UUC drivers clinched their respective poles in JP and Spec E36, but last-minute setup changes on the 54 car resulted in the JP winner starting last on the grid.

Adrenaline pumping, Arjun drove a phenomenal race, passing ten cars on the first lap alone. By lap eight, he had reclaimed first place in JP. Arjun said "The UUC brakes really held diving into the corners. They allowed me to drive as aggressively as I needed to today." At the checkered flag, he had passed over 75% of the field and set a personal best lap time for the weekend. UUC saw another victory with Tim Smith taking his second Spec E36 win of the weekend.

Special thanks to Chief Mechanic Josh Jenny, who had the #54 car running flawlessly all weekend. Additional thanks go out to our generous sponsors, JMK BMW, Alcon, Recaro, HRP World, Vibrant Performance, CG Lock, and SPC Performance.

UUC Motorwerks
10 Ilene Court, Unit #5
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
http://www.uucmotorwerks.com
908-874-9092

Posted On 9/27/07

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Tire Rack Continues Its Support Of BMW CCA Club Racing By Widening Spec E36 Tire Selection

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 04:16:04 PST

Tire Rack Continues Its Support Of BMW CCA Club Racing By Widening Spec E36 Tire Selection
By Mark Dadgar, BMW CCA Club Racing Staff

Greenville, SC (Sept. 27. 2007) – Coincident with the mid-year rules changes for the Tire Rack BMW CCA Club Racing Yokohama Spec E36™ Series, BMW CCA Club Racing is happy to announce that once again Tire Rack™ has stepped up to support BMW-based amateur racing. One new size of Yokohama racing tire and the newly-spec'd Yokohama rain tire have been added to the Tire Rack Spec E36 Rebate Program, allowing racers in this class to receive refunds of $25 per tire.

"The level of support the Tire Rack provides to BMW CCA Club Racing is nothing short of phenomenal," said BMW CCA Club Racing Chairman Mike Mills. "By expanding the tire selection for the Spec E36 Series, they help to ensure the long-term success of the program and for that we thank them."

Added to the rebate program are the 245/40R17 ADVAN A048 MH and the 235/40R17 ADVAN Neova AD-07, which join the existing 225/50R16 ADVAN A048 MH as approved tires for the series.

The Spec E36™ class is designed around a set of 1992-1998 6-cylinder BMW 3-series (non-M3) race cars which are prepared to a uniform level. The modifications required or allowed are intended to produce a fun, fast racing vehicle that feels like a true race car yet remains relatively inexpensive to prepare and maintain.

For more information and a copy of the latest 2007 BMW CCA Club Racing rules, please visit:

http://www.bmwccaclubracing.com

About BMW CCA Club Racing
Founded in 1995, BMW CCA Club Racing offers all BMW CCA licensed club racers a competitive driving experience conducted in a fun, safe, and friendly environment for all types of factory authorized or constructed BMWs. For more information, please visit our web site at http://www.bmwccaclubracing.com

About Tire Rack
Founded in 1979, the family-owned Tire Rack has become America's largest independent tire tester and consumer direct source for tires, wheels and performance accessories. A team of more than 80 test drivers test tires from every major tire manufacturer on a state-of-the-art, 10-acre test facility at the company's headquarters in South Bend, Indiana.

Contact:
Mark Dadgar
Marketing Director, BMW CCA Club Racing
mark@justracing.com
(408) 348-2878

Matt Edmonds
VP of Marketing, The Tire Rack
medmonds@tirerack.com
(574) 287-2345

Posted On 9/27/07

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First Champions Crowned at 2007 Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Championships

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 06:06:09 PST

First Champions Crowned at 2007 Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Championships
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Sept. 26, 2007) – The first Champions of 2007 have now been crowned at the 35th Tire Rack ® SCCA Solo National Championships.

For many competitors, 2007 was finally their year, as 16 Soloists earned their first National Championship at Heartland Park Topeka.

Perhaps the sweetest victory, was Ian Stewart’s Super Stock Championship. After finishing runner-up for the past two years, Stewart out-drove 68 other competitors, in the largest class of the event, to a 0.784-second victory in his Porsche 911 GT3. The SS Title is the first for Stewart in seven Solo National starts.

Evan Brauch also brought home his first ever National Championship. Campaigning an Omni-Fab SR-1 in the B Modified Class, Brauch leaped from fourth in yesterday’s heats to a 0.141-second win on day two.

Although it was technically his second National Championship, it might have felt like the first for Jim Garry in C Modified, who grabbed his first Title since 1984, which is one year before the car he drove was even built, a 1985 Citation FF1600.

No surprises in Street Modified, where Mark Daddio took his ninth National Championship in a Mitsubishi Evo 8 RS. It was a similar story in Street Modified 2, where Erik Strelnieks captured his fifth National Championship in a Mazda 3-Rotor RX7 Turbo, trouncing the competition by 2.635 seconds. Wife Beth McLure-Strelnieks took the Street Modified 2 Ladies trophy in the same car, earning her second National Championship.

Beverlee Larson was successful in capturing her third-straight D Street Prepared Ladies Title in her BMW 325is, overcoming a 0.309-second deficit from day one.

No strangers to Championships, Kiersten S Schamberg-Koch and John Timothy Thomas earned their thirteenth and fourteenth National Championships, respectively.

The Thursday/Friday groups will get the second round of the 35th Tire Rack Solo National Championships underway at 8:00 a.m. (CDT) Thursday morning. For full results visit www.scca.com.

National Champions from the final 34 classes competing Thursday and Friday in the 34th Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Championships at Heartland Park Topeka with class, driver, hometown, car and notes. Drivers in bold with asterisk after class were not the day one leader. Results are provisional.

A Modified: G R Bowland, Mill Spring, N.C., Bowland Boys Shark, Seventh National Championship
A Modified L: Jenny Leigh Williams, Canal Winchester, Ohio, Prototype s/s, First National Championship
B Modified: Evan Brauch, Littleton, Colo., Omni-Fab SR-1, First National Championship
B Modified L: Kiersten S Scharnberg-Koch, Stilwell, Kan., Ralt RT5, Thirteenth National Championship, Second-Straight
C Modified*: Jim Garry, Delmar, N.Y., Citation FF1600, Second National Championship
C Modified L: Linda H Smiley, Dayton, Ohio, Tiga Formula Ford, Ninth National Championship
C Prepared*: Darrel A Padberg, Muskego, Wis., Ford Mustang, Third National Championship, Second-Straight
C Prepared L: Donna Bartling, Katy, Texas, Ford Mustang, First National Championship
C Street Prepared*: Reijo Silvennoinen, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda Miata, First National Championship
C Street Prepared L: Tami Daniels, Gladstone, Ore., Mazda MX-5, First National Championship
C Stock*: Ryan Buetzer, Long Beach, Calif., Mazda Miata, Third National Championship
C Stock L: Annie Bauer, Kent, Wash., Pontiac Solstice, Third National Championship
D Modified: Mark Huffman, Litchfield Park , Ariz., Lotus Elan, Third National Championship
D Modified L: Daisy Huffman, Litchfield Park, Ariz., Lotus Elan, First National Championship
D Street Prepared: Mike Shields, Temple, N.H., BMW 325is, Second-Straight National Championship
D Street Prepared L*: Beverlee Larsson, Anaheim Hills, Calif., BMW 325is, Third-Straight National Championship
E Stock: Brian Johns, Murfreesboro, Tenn., First National Championship
E Stock L: Tara Johns, Murfreesboro, Tenn., Mazda Miata, First National Championship
F Prepared: John Timothy Thomas, Tampa, Fla., Datsun 240Z, Fourteenth National Championship
F Street Prepared: Jason J Tipple, Galloway, Ohio, Honda Civic SI, Second National Championship
F Street Prepared L: Lisa Krueger, Midland, Mich., VW Rabbit, Seventh National Championship, Fourth-Straight
Formula SAE: Eric J Leichtle, Coppell, Texas, UTA, First National Championship
G Prepared: Bo Rader, Wichita, Kan., Austin Healy Sprite, First National Championship
G Prepared L: Christine E Cutrer, Topeka, Kan., Fiat X1/9, First National Championship
H Stock*: Jack Burns, Hamilton, Ohio, Mazda 3, Second National Championship
H Stock L: Cara Ness, Medfield, Mass., Honda Civic Si, First National Championship
Street Modified: Mark Daddio, Beacon Falls, Conn., Mitsubishi Evo 8 RS, Ninth National Championship
Street Modified L*: Denise Kugler, Springtown, Pa., Honda Herman, Second National Championship
Street Modified 2: Erik Strelnieks, Cedar Park, Texas, Mazda 3-Rotor RX7 Turbo, Fifth National Championship
Streeet Modified 2 L: Beth A McLure-Strelnieks, Cedar Park, Texas, Mazda 3-Rotor RX-7 Turbo, First National Championship
Street Touring S2*: Mike King, Jacksonville, Fla., Honda CRX Si, First National Championship
Street Touring S2L: Dr. Michelle Diane Seelig, Edmond, Okla., Honda CRS Si, Third National Championship
Super Stock*: Ian Stewart, Orlando, Fla., Porsche 911 GT3, First National Championship after finishing runner-up past two years.
Super Stock L*: Tristan Kotzian-Coulter, Hillsboro, Ore., Porsche GT3, First National Championship

Attached Image: It was victory at last for Ian Stewart in Super Stock.
Credit: Eric Prill

Posted On 9/26/07

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Audi Club Northwest Drivers School, Teen Clinic, and Autocross

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 09:44:39 PST

Audi Club Northwest Drivers School, Teen Clinic, and Autocross
By Vikki Leary, ACNA Staff

Join the Audi Club Northwest at Bremerton, November 3rd and 4th for the Audi Club Northwest Drivers School, Teen Clinic, and Autocross Sponsored by University Audi --two days of learning and fun for everyone!

Driver Education (DE) and a big Autocross on Saturday prepare you for the high-speed instructed Track Day on Sunday. You can attend either day or both. This event has something for everyone.

This event also includes a Teen clinic. If you know a teen that could use more advanced instruction than the high school drivers education course, please invite them. Membership is not required for teens so please help promote this event and let anyone you know with teens that they can register their teens and make them better drivers. Our course will teach them how to get out of dangerous situations and to be more responsible behind the wheel.

Registration can be done at our new registration site: www.audiclubnw.motorsportreg.com

This Driver Ed school is encouraged for new car owners, teens, novices and intermediate drivers as an exciting opportunity to learn how you and your car work together on the street or highway. Intermediate/Advanced drivers often take DE as a refresher, or you can register for Autocross-only on Saturday and/or the Track Day on Sunday.

For more information and to see our entire schedule please go to: www.audiclubnw.org

Posted On 9/26/07

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Mosport SPEED Touring Car Broadcast: James Clay in the Announcer's Booth

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 11:31:36 PST

Mosport SPEED Touring Car Broadcast: James Clay in the Announcer's Booth
By Bimmerworld Media Services

What did James Clay do when he was forced to sit out the Mosport SPEED World Challenge Touring Car round after suffering a dislocated shoulder? He accepted an invitation to join SPEED’s Greg Creamer and Calvin Fish in the announcer’s booth for the race broadcast. While having his arm in a sling kept him from showing his talents on the race track, Clay was able to lend some great insights and a few laughs on air.

Before we jump into the 9th of 10 rounds next week at Road Atlanta during the 10th anniversary of Petit Le Mans, enjoy a shortened version of the Mosport SPEED race with James’ commentary.

BimmerWorld Media Services
mediaservices@bimmerworld.com

http://www.bimmerworld.com
http://www.bimmerworldracing.com
http://www.powerflexusa.com
Race Proven BMW Performance
877.639.9648

Check out our new BimmerWorld Video Channel on Brightcove.com

Posted On 9/25/07

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First Day of SCCA Solo National Championships Starts Wet, Ends Dry

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 11:25:32 PST

First Day of SCCA Solo National Championships Starts Wet, Ends Dry
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (Sept. 25, 2007) – Three dozen Soloists have one sleepless night ahead of them, as they are halfway to a Championship at the 35th Tire Rack® SCCA Solo National Championships.

The opening day of competition for the Solo National Championships threw some competitors for a loop, when drivers in the first heats had to adjust for a damp course in light morning rain. By the afternoon however, the sun was bursting through the clouds and the convertible tops were down.

Four-time Champion Erik Strelnieks has a hearty 1.353-second lead in Street Modified 2 over his own Mazda 3-Rotor RX7 Turbo co-driver Randall Noll. Wife Beth McLure-Strelnieks also leads Street Modified 2 Ladies in the same car.

Street Touring® S2 has a very tight battle going on between Ian Baker’s Honda CRX and Rick Cone’s Mazda Miata. The two are separated by only 0.066-second after day one, and Solo Nationals rookie Eric Sienkiewicz is putting in a stellar performance, currently sitting third in his Honda CRX.

Last year’s STS2 winner Andrew Canak is currently running second in F Prepared behind the wheel of a Datsun 240Z. Canak trails defending FP Champion John Timothy Thomas in another Datsun 240Z by 0.874-second.

Street Modified is shaping up to be an epic battle between Solo heavyweights Mark Daddio and Vic Sias. At the helm of a BMW M3, Sias is regretting his coned third run, giving him one more cone penalty than Daddio and a 0.179-second deficit to the Mitsubishi Evo driver.

Wednesday’s action gets underway at 8 a.m. (CDT) as the classes switch courses from West to East and East to West. Today’s best times, along with Wednesday’s, will be added together to determine the class Champion.

For complete results from the event, please visit www.scca.com.

Top two runners in each of the 36 classes competing Tuesday and Wednesday in the 35th Tire Rack® SCCA Solo National Championships at Heartland Park Topeka with class, leading driver, hometown and car; second place driver, hometown, car and gap behind first place.

A Modified: G R Bowland, Mill Spring, N.C., Bowland Boys Shark; Stuart Lee Lumpkin, McKinney, Texas, Bowland Boys Shark, -0.226 sec.
A Modified L: Jenny Leigh Williams, Canal Winchester, Ohio, Prototype s/s, only competitor
B Modified: Bruce Dickey, Rhome, Texas, Dragon FartFire; 2, Tommy Saunders, Southlake, Texas, Dragon FartFire, -0.609 sec.
B Modified L: Kiersten S Scharnberg-Koch, Stilwell, Kan., Ralt RT5; 2, Janis Hernandez, North Richland Hills, Texas, Pocket Rocket DSR, -2.856 sec.
C Modified: Donald R Elzinga Jr., Waterford, Mich., Reynard FF1600; 2, Jim Garry, Delmar, N.Y., Citation FF1600, -0.807 sec.
C Modified L: Linda H Smiley, Dayton, Ohio, Tiga Formula Ford, no other competitors
C Prepared: Todd Farris, College Station, Texas, Chevy Z28; 2, Darrel A Padberg, Muskego, Wis., Ford Mustang, -0.154 sec.
C Prepared L: Donna Bartling, Katy, Texas, Ford Mustang; 2, Desiree Kay Padberg, Muskego, Wis., Ford Mustang, -0.907 sec.
C Street Prepared: Col. Bill Schenker, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda 10AE Miata; 2, Reijo Silvennoinen, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda Miata, -0.131 sec.
C Street Prepared L: Tami Daniels, Gladstone, Ore., Mazda MX-5; 2, Renee Russell, Auburn, Calif., Mazda Miata, -3.212 sec.
C Stock: Mike Lillejord, Redmond, Wash., Pontiac Solstice; 2, Ryan Buetzer, Long Beach, Calif., Mazda Miata, -0.116 sec.
C Stock L: Annie Bauer, Kent, Wash., Pontiac Solstice; 2, Lynn Collins, Lake Saint Louis, Mo., Pontiac Solstice, -0.354 sec.
D Modified: Mark Huffman, Litchfield Park , Ariz., Lotus Elan; 2, Thomas Austin, Tallahassee, Fla., Austin Mini, -0.402 sec.
D Modified L: Daisy Huffman, Litchfield Park, Ariz., Lotus Elan; 2, Susan E Anderson, Florissant, Mo., Lotus/Caterham Super 7, 2.712 sec.
D Street Prepared: Mike Shields, Temple, N.H., BMW 325is; Patrick Lipsinic, Tulsa, Okla., Subaru Impreza, -1.130 sec.
D Street Prepared L: Rebecca Zacharda, Sherwood, Okla., Mini Cooper S; 2, Beverlee Larsson, Anaheim Hills, Calif., BMW 325is, -0.309 sec.
E Stock: Brian Johns, Murfreesboro, Tenn., Mazda Miata; 2, Robert O Carpenter, Knoxville, Tenn., Toyota MR2, -0.691 sec.
E Stock L: Tara Johns, Murfreesboro, Tenn., Mazda Miata; 2, Meredith Brown, Los Alamos, N.M., Toyota MR2, -0.074 sec.
F Prepared: John Timothy Thomas, Tampa, Fla., Datsun 240Z; 2, Andrew Crank, Waterford, Wis., Datsun 240Z, -0.874 sec.
F Street Prepared: Jason J Tipple, Galloway, Ohio, Honda Civic SI; 2, Jinx Jordan, Terrell, N.C., Honda Civic, -0.924 sec
F Street Prepared L: Lisa Krueger, Midland, Mich., VW Rabbit; 2, Bonnie Mueller, Eugene, Ore., Ford Focus, -0.131 sec.
Formula SAE: Eric J Leichtle, Coppell, Texas, UTA; 2, Alejandro Moreno, Arlington, Texas, UTA, -0.153 sec.
G Prepared L: Christine E Cutrer, Topeka, Kan., Fiat X1/9; Patricia J Kelly, Pleasanton, Calif., Austin Mini, -10.338 sec.
H Stock: David Patrick, Frankfort, Ky., Honda Civic EX; 2, Jack Burns, Hamilton, Ohio, Mazda 3, -0.079 sec.
H Stock L: Cara Ness, Medfield, Mass., Honda Civic Si; 2, Stephanie A Chang, Morris Plains, N.J., Mini Cooper, -1.294 sec.
Street Modified: Mark Daddio, Beacon Falls, Conn., Mitsubishi Evo 8 RS; 2, Victor Sias, Santa Clara, Calif., BMW M3, 0.179 sec.
Street Modified L: Valerie Furrer, Pinconning, Mich., Mitsubishi Evo IX RS; 2, Denise Kugler, Springtown, Pa., Honda Herman, -0.401 sec.
Street Modified 2: Erik Strelnieks, Cedar Park, Texas, Mazda 3-Rotor RX7 Turbo; 2, Randall Noll, Encintas, Calif., Mazda 3-
Rotor RX7 Turbo, -1.353 sec.
Streeet Modified 2 L: Beth A McLure-Strelnieks, Cedar Park, Texas, Mazda 3-Rotor RX-7 Turbo; 2, Brianne Maier, Livermore, Calif., Mazda RX7, -2.565 sec.
Street Touring S2: Ian Baker, Herndon, Va., Honda CRX; 2, Rick Cone, Lawrenceville, Ga., Mazda Miata, -0.066 sec.
Street Touring S2L: Dr. Michelle Diane Seelig, Edmond, Okla., Honda CRS Si; 2, Kim Littke, Seattle, Wash., Mazda Miata, -0.771 sec.
Super Stock: Patrick Salerno, III, New Milford, Conn., Lotus Elise; 2, Ian Stewart, Orlando, Fla., Porsche 911 GT3, -0.191 sec.
Super Stock L: Iven Dudley, Round Rock, Texas, Porsche GT3; 2, Tristan Kotzian-Coulter, Hillsboro, Ore., Porsche GT3, -0.495 sec.

Attached image: Mark Daddio is the Street Modified leader after day one.
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 9/25/07

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Nation's Best Soloists to be Crowned at 35th SCCA Solo National Championships

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 02:37:45 PST

Nation's Best Soloists to be Crowned at 35th SCCA Solo National Championships
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Sept. 24, 2007) – The culmination of the Solo season unfolds this week when close to 1,200 drivers take part in the 35th Tire Rack® SCCA Solo National Championships.

For the second year in-a-row, the Solo National Championships will polish the paddock at Heartland Park Topeka with several layers of tire rubber and crown 67 Champions in the world’s largest motorsports competition.

Super Stock boasts the largest number of entries with 69, but reigning class Champion Matthew Braun has moved to B Stock with a Mazda RX-8, leaving the category wide-open for a win from the likes of eight-time Champion Gary Thomason, three-time Champions Tom Kotzian and Pat Salerno.

A Stock welcomes an equally impressive 64 competitors, with defending class Champion Jeff Cashmore, of New Berlin, Wis., going for his fifth Solo Title. It could be another husband-wife sweep if Denise Cashmore can retain her A Stock Ladies title as well.

Darrel and Desiree Padberg will also attempt a second spousal sweep of C Prepared and C Prepared Ladies in their Ford Mustang.

Beverlee Larsson, of Anaheim Hills, Calif., goes for her third-straight D Street Prepared Ladies Championship this week. She’ll continue to pilot her trusty BMW 325is in the largest of the ladies’ classes.

Carrying momentum into the competition is defending A Street Prepared Champion Mike “Junior” Johnson, who recently captured his first-ever SCCA ProSolo win on the very same Heartland Park asphalt less than a week ago. Johnson will be searching for his third Solo Championship trophy this week.

Classes are separated into Tuesday/Wednesday run groups and Thursday/Friday run groups with awards banquets scheduled for Wednesday and Friday evening. With the exception of a rain chance on Tuesday, Mother Nature is expected to cooperate with the event, providing sunny skies and temperatures around 80.

The Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Championships began in 1973 to crown North America’s best autocross drivers. Solo, SCCA’s version of autocross, is a competition of drivers against the clock on a course laid out with pylons. There are two courses, and a driver’s best aggregate time from both courses determines the winner. Drivers who move or knock over a pylon receive a two second penalty to their time for that run.

For full event information and results throughout the week, visit www.scca.com

Attached image: Beverlee Larsson will attempt a D Street Prepared Ladies hat trick at this year’s Solo National Championships
Credit: Digital Race Photography

Posted On 9/24/07

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Junior Johnson Wins SCCA ProSolo National Championship

Sun, 23 Sep 2007 03:59:27 PST

Junior Johnson Wins SCCA ProSolo National Championship
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Sept. 22, 2007) – Mike “Junior” Johnson, of Glen Allen, Va., captured his first ProSolo victory when it mattered the most, at the 2007 Tire Rack® SCCA ProSolo National Championship at Heartland Park Topeka.

Piloting the Evolution Driving School Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Johnson capped off his best ProSolo season ever by edging out E Stock runner-up Paul Brown, of Los Almos, N.M., in the Hawk Super Challenge. Although Brown clipped a cone on his second run in a Toyota MR2, Johnson’s pace could not be matched.

“I had a couple top qualifiers this year, but this was my best Challenge ever and my best year in ProSolo,” Johnson said.

“I’ve got to thank Sam Strano from Strano Performance Parts and Evolution Driving School. Being an instructor and getting into a lot of different cars throughout the year, I’ve been able to get used to driving everything.”

Johnson breezed into the Hawk Super Challenge by winning A Street Prepared by 0.801-second, preventing any other ASP competitors from earning a spot in the Challenge.

“Yesterday I put myself behind the eight ball quite a bit on my first runs,” Johnson added. “I had four dirty runs. I knew I had the time, but I had a hard time today hooking up at the line on the left side, so I wasn’t able to get the number I would have liked to. I felt pretty good about my class performance, but a Challenge is a whole different thing; you’re dealing with the best drivers from the whole weekend, so it’s much harder. The Challenges are just as much about luck as skill.”

Ian Baker, of Herndon, Va., and Joe Tharpe, of Marshalltown, Iowa, faced off in the Honda Tuner Challenge. Baker came in as the top qualifier in his Koni/Stranoparts.com Honda CRX, but the Street Touring® 2 class winner red lighted the start of his first run, handing the Honda Hot Shoe Award and bonus $1000 to Tharpe and his A Stock Honda S2000.

Ladies Class 1 winner Jennifer Merideth, of Westland, Mich., and Ladies Class 2 winner Christine Berry, of Alta Loma, Calif., lined up for the final round of the Ladies Challenge. Rising from the ranks of Formula Junior a decade ago, Berry piloted her Mitsubishi Evolution to victory over the Ford Mustang of Merideth.

Ian Baker, of Orlando, Fla., lost some ground on the rest of the field in Super Stock, but still won the class by an impressive 0.783-second. Competing in the largest class of the event, Stewart used his Maitlandimports.com Porsche 911 GT3 to beat out some ProSolo heaving hitters including Gary Thomason, Tom Kotzian, Pat Salerno and Kevin Dietz.

Topeka driver Ron Williams continued to defend his turf on day two and captured the G Stock win. Driving a MiniUSA/Hoosier Tires Mini Cooper S, Williams beat out former champ G.H. Sharp, of Kernersville, N.C., in another Mini Cooper S by 0.043-second.

Nathan Whipple, of Marlborough, Mass., surprised the Street Touring S class by opening up his day one lead even further to take the class victory by 0.278-second in his Rally Decals Honda Civic. Whipple’s win margin eliminated the chance for his fellow STS competitors to compete in the Hawk Super Challenge, including Solo ace Andy Hollis, of Austin, Texas.

Keith Brown, of Des Moines, Wash., also prevented some formidable Soloists from competing in the Hawk Super Challenge when he won the large Prepared Index class in his ChaseRace/K&K Racing/Jim’s Detail Shop Mazda Miata. Tracy Ramsey, Lloyd Wilson, Richard Beecher and David Newman were all sent packing after Prepared Index competition.

On a historical note, the Ford Focus earned its first-ever Solo Championship at the hands of Lorin Mueller, of Newark, Calif., who won the F Street Prepared Class by 0.975-second over the Honda Civic of Jinx Jordan, from Terrell, N.C.

With that, the 2007 Tire Rack SCCA ProSolo season came to an end. Class and challenge winners will be honored at an awards banquet on Sunday night. Many competitors won’t be packing it up quite yet though, as the Solo National Championships are set to begin on Tuesday, September 25.

For full results for the ProSolo National Championship, visit www.scca.com.

Attached image: Mike “Junior” Johnson
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 9/23/07

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SCCA ProSolo National Championship Underway at Heartland Park Topeka

Fri, 21 Sep 2007 03:55:11 PST

SCCA ProSolo National Championship Underway at Heartland Park Topeka
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Sept. 20, 2007) – The Tire Rack® SCCA ProSolo National Championship has left the start box at Heartland Park Topeka and first-day leaders are resting up for the conclusion of class competition and Challenge rounds on Saturday.

Day one of the ProSolo National Championship was headlined by hot temperatures that baked the asphalt, corner workers and start-light stand, which became temperamental in the scorching afternoon sun, delaying competition briefly.

The lights weren’t the only thing struggling in the Kansas heat, ProSolo favorite Bob Tunnell, of Superior, Colo., who was experiencing differential problems with his BimmerHaus/Hoosier/H&R BMW M3, completed only two runs in the Prepared Index class Friday morning. Tunnell currently sits third in the class which is much larger than usual, with 14 cars.

Thriving in the Heartland sun was Topeka driver Ron Williams, who is the early leader in G Stock. The Arkansas ProSolo winner holds a 0.337-second lead in a MiniUSA/Hoosier Tires Mini Cooper S.

One of the largest leads on day one came in the largest class of the event. In the 17-car strong Super Stock category, the Maitlandimports.com Porsche 911 GT3 of Ian Stewart, from Orlando, Fla., leads another Porsche GT3, that of Tom Kotzian, from Gladstone, Ore., by 1.016 seconds.

Pulling an even bigger lead is Matt Murray, of Westport, Conn., in H Stock. Driving a Higgins Group/Hoosier Racing Tires BMW 318i with more than 147,000 miles on the odometer, Murray has opened up a 1.078-second gap to Chang Ho Kim, of Maynard, Mass., in a Honda Civic Si.

Much closer is Street Touring® S, where the Soulspeed/PowerCurveDyno/Bridgestone Honda Civic Si of Andy Hollis, from Austin, Texas, trails the RallyDecals Honda Civic of Nathan Whipple, from Marlborough, Mass., by a slim 0.070-seconds.

D Stock gets the award for car diversity on day one. Kinch Reindl, of Denver, Colo., currently leads the field in a 1998 Acura ITR. He is followed by Chris Kline, of Saint Charles, Mo., in a 2005 Dodge SRT-4 and the 2006 Chrysler Crossfire of Bryan Hertweck, from Summerfield, N.C.

The final day of ProSolo National Championship competition gets underway Saturday at 8:00 a.m. (CDT) at Heartland Park Topeka, with the three challenge rounds expected to begin at 2:00 p.m. For the latest news and results visit www.scca.com.

Attached image: Competitors stage for their first runs at the ProSolo National Championship
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 9/21/07

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SCCA ProSolo National Championship Begins Friday

Thu, 20 Sep 2007 10:16:04 PST

SCCA ProSolo National Championship Begins Friday
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (Sept. 20, 2007) – The Tire Rack® SCCA ProSolo National Championship kicks off the Sports Car Club of America Championship season this weekend at Heartland Park Topeka.

Approximately 250 Soloists will take up residence in Topeka for two days of Christmas tree starts, tire thrashing and cone grazing. Thirty-one classes will crown winners on Friday and Saturday morning before the Challenge rounds commence on Saturday afternoon.

Last year’s winner Robert Seelig, of Edmond, Okla., returns in his Street Touring® S2 Honda CRX to defend his title. Beth McClure-Strelnieks, of Cedar Park, Texas, last year’s Ladies Champion, also returns in a Mazda 3.

With 17 cars, Super Stock leads the event in entries and will be an all out battle of sports car favorites. Corvettes, Lotus Elises and Porsches will go head-to-head to prove which is the total package of speed and agility. Meanwhile, classes like F Stock, H Stock and Street Touring S will pit popular Acuras, Hondas and Mazdas against one another.

Unlike previous years where a season-long points championship was also decided at the final ProSolo event of the year, the 2007 ProSolo National Championship will be a winner-takes-all event.

Class competition begins Friday, September 21, at 8:00 a.m. and continues on Saturday morning from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Following the conclusion of class competition on Saturday, the four Challenge rounds (Hawk Super Challenge, Honda Tuner Challenge, Ladies Challenge and Bonus Challenge) will take place. The event wraps up with an awards banquet in Topeka on Sunday evening.

For results and schedule information for the 2007 Tire Rack SCCA ProSolo National Championships visit www.scca.com.

Attached image: ProSolo cars are taking their places in the start box for the 2007 Tire Rack® SCCA ProSolo National Championships
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 9/20/07

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24 Hours Of LeMons: Thunderhill Is On!

Thu, 20 Sep 2007 10:11:53 PST

24 Hours Of LeMons: Thunderhill Is On!
By Jay Lamm, Chief Perpetrator

LeMONS @ THUNDERHILL
29-30 December '07 (between Xmas & New Year's)
It's official. We booked the track. LeMons is racing at Thunderhill the weekend between Christmas and New Year's.

Now, I'm no Bible scholar, so I can't be 100% sure this is a sign of the Apocalypse. But I have to admit it's suspicious. I mean, why would a just and fair universe allow Bad Things to happen to Good Racetracks? I don't know. All I know is we got a ton of responses and Thunderhill still hasn't come to its senses; thus, we're going for it. See the new (and exceedingly un-proofread) Thunderhill Events Page for all the deets.

Mind you, there was also a ton of response from T-hill's neighbors, none of it terribly festive. So to be good renters (ie. the kind they'll have back), we'll be sticking to our usual nighttime off-track break after all. Look for pit-bicycle demo derbies, a Not Quite New Year's Eve bash, car movies, and Flintstone-like snoring during the wee hours of this one. The good news is Thunderhill welcomes everyone in the pits all night long, so there's no need to toddle off back your sleazy motel this time.

Ready to celebrate the true meaning of the holidays--frostbite, neck strain, and accidentally welding your watchband to a broken shock tower? The new Entry Forms are online now; get yours in by 1 November to be part of the first-round draft.

LeMONS STAFFERS WANTED
Like the concept of LeMons but too smart to actually enter? Wise man. But you can still volunteer for the track staff: You'll get free paddock passes for two; a cool LeMONS STAFF shirt to keep (by "cool" I mean "an ugly bright-yellow LeMONS STAFF tee that makes you look a lot like an overweight cockatiel"); and for some jobs a crisp $50. Never worked at a race before? No sweat: We need everything from trained corner workers to totally neophyte pit monkeys.

To join us at Flat Rock, Altamont, or Thunderhill, just take the following quiz:

1) Are you a carbon-based biped?
2) Can you walk more than six feet without needing a Marlboro?
3) A Datsun B210 hubcap is flying right at you: Are you smart enough to duck?

If you answered "yes" to two or more of the above, send an email to our Chief Steward and Volunteer Wrangler, Dan Radowicz. He'll fix you right up.

Thanks much &c--JL

Jay Lamm, Chief Perpetrator
24 HOURS OF LeMONS
5675 Horton Street, Suite C
Emeryville CA 94608

Posted On 9/20/07

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Third Place Finish for BSI Racing at Miller Motorsports Park

Thu, 20 Sep 2007 09:26:56 PST

Third Place Finish for BSI Racing at Miller Motorsports Park
By Lauren Liebowitz, BSI Racing

BSI Racing took home their season best finish of 3rd place in the KONI Challenge ST race at Miller Motorsports Park this past weekend. Justin Hall and Magnus Karlsson in the JustRacing.com/MOMO/Joe Gibbs No.58 Mazda MX-5 finished on the podium and are now 7th in team points in the ST class. Christian Miller and Todd Buras finished 15th in the No. 56 MOMO/Joe Gibbs/ Mazda MX-5. BSI Racing is looking to place the No. 58 car in the top-5 in team points with the last race left in the 2007 KONI Challenge Series taking place October 6th in Virginia.

The past weekend’s race threw everything at the BSI crew with dusty winds and a crowded race track but the No. 58 Mazda MX-5 was able to truck through the obstacles and finish up front. Magnus Karlsson started the race from 21st spot. He handed the orange 58 car to Hall after a double yellow during the first half of the race.

With 48 minutes left in the race, Hall was quietly moving up the pack and had the car positioned in 8th place. A few team members were getting nervous about the remaining fuel as the car continued to move up. The team engineer knew the car would be able to race with one fuel stop but that didn’t stop the stress. Nine minutes left in the race Hall was in 4th place. During the last lap Hall was racing home to a third place finish. The Mazda was running just on fuel reserves and was about to give out any minute but Hall was able to keep the sputtering MX-5 running till the finish.

After the race Hall was extremely positive about his 3rd place finish. “The car was very consistent throughout the race distance. We are still down a little bit on horse power and torque but we do have the potential for a fuel advantage if we pick up the yellows at the right time,” he said.

“Our one stop strategy reaped dividends as the other front running cars were forced to pit for a splash. With that said the car was competitive on track. It was not a race that was determined by strategy alone. Magnus did a phenomenal job during his first stint and gave me a car that was perfect. You have to hand it to the BSI crew because we literally ran out of fuel on the last lap. We had the mileage down perfectly. Every turn the car was sputtering. It ran out on the cool down. With three to four laps to go we had an 8 to 10 second lead over P4 and P5. At that point I went into conservation mode knowing that it could literally come down to the last corner and that is exactly what happened.”

No. 58 co-driver Magnus Karlsson was just as pleased with the car’s performance. Magnus said “I would like to thank my teammate for doing a stellar job and BSI for giving us the chance to podium. I thought we had a good chance this weekend. This track fits us better than others. The one stop strategy worked perfect. I was thinking the cars ahead of us needed to do two stops and I knew we would have a top-5 finish. The last few laps was a nail biter but it all worked out. This is the break we have been looking for,” said Karlsson.

The No. 56 Mazda was set to have an equally successful race but after the first few laps Christian Miller was involved in a fender bender. The car’s setup was thrown off and the exhaust tips were dragging on the track. Miller drove into pit lane after the altercation. After Miller’s stint in the car co-driver Buras drove the MX-5 for the remainder of the race. The car finished in a respectable 15th place.

BSI Racing is preparing to have another top-5 finish at the last KONI Challenge race at VIR on Oct. 6. Seats are available for the six hour endurance race. Contact Stu Brumer for more information, 386-677-5778.

BSI Racing appreciates support from MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development, KONI, Joe Gibbs Racing Oil, MOMO, SPEEDCOM Communications, BBS, Creative Motorsports Solutions, JustRacing.com, Sun Belt Performance Engines and Team Garcia.

BSI Racing offers race car preparation, trackside support, fabrication, and parts for the Mazda MX-5. The race team will be campaigning Mazda MX-5 cars in the KONI Challenge Series and participating in the 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup.

For information on MX-5 rental and ownership programs, visit www.bsiracing.com

Posted On 9/20/07

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Drivers and Crew Honored at MX-5 Cup Banquet

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 02:15:47 PST

Drivers and Crew Honored at MX-5 Cup Banquet
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOOELE, Utah (Sept. 18, 2007) – Drivers, teams, family and staff celebrated a year of exceptional racing at this year’s SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup banquet, held in Legends Hall at Miller Motorsports Park.

In addition to recognizing the accomplishments of 2007 MX-5 Cup Champion Jason Saini and the top ten drivers in the Championship, several special awards were given out as well. Saini received $1,000 from Hawk Performance for the Hawk Hot Lap of the Year award. Saini actually tied Ara Malkhassian for the most fast race laps of the season (three), but the award went to Saini, who had the most second-fastest race laps of the year.

While accepting his Championship trophy, Saini was also presented with a suit and helmet from Mazda in recognition of his entrance into the Mazdaspeed ladder program. In 2008, Saini will advance to the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship, with a full-season ride courtesy of Mazda. Expect an announcement in the off-season regarding which team Saini will be campaigning for.

“This is a dream come true,” Saini said.

The MX-5 Cup crews are some of the hardest working in motorsports and were given their own chance to compete head-to-head at Miller Motorsports Park for the first annual MX-5 Cup Pit Crew Challenge. Mike Yoes and Jake Oberg from Team Alara successfully installed a transmission and flywheel in 6:09 minutes and were each awarded with Skip Barber Driving Schools courtesy of Mazda. Jason Hoover and Mark Woodward from Hooverspeed came in second with a time of 6:26 minutes. Darin George and Jeremy Comerasamy of Team MER finished third.. All four received additional prizes from Mazda.

Keep checking back to www.mx-5cup.com for announcements on this season’s SPEED broadcast times and the 2008 MX-5 Cup schedule.

Attached image: Mazda staff presents Jason Saini with Mazdaspeed Ladder Program suit.
Credit: Juha Lievonen

Posted On 9/18/07

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$1.4 Million Available in SCCA Runoffs Contingencies

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 05:03:09 PST

$1.4 Million Available in SCCA Runoffs Contingencies
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (September 17, 2007) – Club Racers won’t just be walking away with medals, bragging rights and a place in racing history at this year’s SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T. Dozens of contingency programs will offer a wide array of cash and prizes totaling more than $1.4 million.

Several contingency sponsors are posting in the six digit range including Mazda and Nissan. Both automakers will offer $5,000 to victors driving their product. With payouts for second and third as well as tow money, Mazda’s program offers more than $130,000, while Nissan will post a $1,000 bonus for a pole position and a $500 start bonus, totaling $121,000.

Subaru and General Motors are also offering $5,000 for a win. Volkswagen, the Official Pace Car of SCCA, will pay its winners anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000 for a win, with additional payouts for second and third, plus a $1,000 pole position bonus. Toyota, BMW and Ford each have strong programs in place as well.

Not included in Mazda’s sum is the most generous prize in Runoffs History, a new Mazda MX-5, complete with Mazdaspeed kit to prepare the car for competition in the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup. For the second year in-a-row, Mazda will invite all Runoffs Champions driving Mazdas to a shootout to determine who will walk away with the grand prize. Last year’s winner, 2006 SCCA Spec Miata Champion Andrew Caddell, collected two MX-5 Cup wins in 2007 and ended the season second in the Championship.

Six digit programs are posted by three tire companies as well. Hoosier will be giving a set of tires to any SCCA National Champions running their rubber and will continue to supply a set to the Champ for any Club Racing National he or she enters in 2008. Goodyear-shod racers can earn $3,000 worth of tires for a Runoffs victory with decreasing certificate values for second and third. Hankook’s program pays $4,000 cash for a win, with further payouts for second and third. Toyo Tires will also post $4,000 for the Spec Miata winner. Yokohama will pay $1,000 to the Formula Atlantic Champion.

A win on Kumho tires in one of six classes will net the most cash however: $5,000.

A smattering of other race supply and service companies are posting everything from cash, to a trailer, to helmets. Valvoline will offer cash prizes to eligible top-three finishers, including $1,000 for a win. Carrying on with tradition, Red Line Oil will continue to award top-three finishers registered for their program with a custom driver suit, while Racer Wholesale will be giving away a G-Force helmet as a “hard luck” award to the eligible starter in each race who completes the least number of laps. SCCA Enterprises will award the Spec Racer Ford winner with a set of wheels and complete engine rebuild.

Forgeline Motorsports is a new contingency sponsor this year, posting cash prizes in eight classes. Taylor Race Engineering returns in 2007 to offer the “just missed the podium award,” issuing a $300 product certificate to eligible competitors who finish fourth. Long time Runoffs supporters Summit Racing and Hawk Performance, the Official Brake Product of SCCA, return with excellent programs for 2007.

Sunoco again sponsors the “Hard Charger Award” to the racer who advances the most spots from the grid to the checkered flag in each class. Pegasus Auto Racing Supplies adds further prizes to those drivers in five classes.

Pace, the Official Trailer of SCCA, brings a new and exciting program to Runoffs with the Pace Hot Pursuit Award. In all 25 classes, the driver who has the least variance between his or her qualifying times will be entered to win a new Pace Pursuit® trailer. From those names along with 28 Solo competitors, a winner will be drawn at random.

Of course, competitors won’t see any prizes without registering first. Visit the Runoffs contingency page at www.scca.com for more information about all the programs available and to download the required paperwork. Registration is completed at Driver Information at the event.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. The best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports.

Attached image: 2006 Spec Miata Champion Andrew Caddell earned himself a new Mazda MX-5 Cup at last year’s Runoffs.
Credit: ©SCCA

Posted On 9/17/07

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Caddell Wins Wild MX-5 Cup Finale in Utah

Sun, 16 Sep 2007 12:29:29 PST

Caddell Wins Wild MX-5 Cup Finale in Utah
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOOELE, Utah (Sept. 15, 2007) – Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., battled back from a poor start to win his second SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio MX-5 Cup race of the season and secure second in the Championship. Bob Michaelian, of Seal Beach, Calif., and Todd Buras, of Melbourne, Fla., completed the top three in the final MX-5 Cup race of the season, part of the Sunchaser 1000 weekend at Miller Motosprots Park.

Starting from his second pole of the season, Caddell’s race got off to a rough start when he missed a shift in his No. 30 Team MER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5 and fell back to fifth on the opening lap.

“I missed a shift on the start and I think I might have caused that wreck on the front straightaway. I got the third gear shift and then the third to fourth gear shift didn’t go in. It was a fight from there, I was all the way back to fifth.”

Caddell was lucky however, compared to Jesse Combs, of Woodlands, Texas, in the No. 7 Coolgas Ltd./Alara Racing MX-5, who made heavy contact with the guard rail on the front straight at the start of the race. The No. 83 Hooverspeed MX-5 of Kim Ouye, from Monterey, Calif, and the No. 14 Hooverspeed MX-5 of Simona DeSilvestro, from Thun, Switzerland, got together at the start, bumping into Combs and sending him off course at speed. Ouye and De Silvestro also veered off course in the opposite direction, making contact with the opposite barrier. All three drivers were okay, but out of the race before Turn One.

While his teammate, and new MX-5 Cup Champion, Jason Saini took over the lead of the race, Caddell took advantage of scuffles in front of him to work his way back to third on lap five, when the only full course caution of the race would come out for debris on the front straight.

On the lap eight restart, the No. 80 Hooverspeed/MobiTV MX-5 of Matt Cross, from Folsom, Calif., became the new race leader with MER teammates Saini and Caddell hot on his heels. It was at that point that Saini’s transmission became stuck in fourth gear and the No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/Saferacer.com MX-5 started to fall back. Caddell took over the reins with gusto, passing Cross for the lead the next lap heading into Turn One and never looking back, setting the Hawk Hot Lap of the race, a 3:23.144 (79.891 mph).

“I was picking people off one by one,” Caddell said. “I got by Jason [Saini] when he started having trouble with his transmission, then I got by [Matt] Cross. I had a run on Matt and he moved back over. I just dove in there and took a chance. He was making the track pretty narrow, but I had to get by him, because I knew once I got by him we had the better car.

“It feels great. That was probably the most exciting race and the most frustrating race at the same time. We’re coming back next year and we’re going to the Runoffs this year too.”

With the win, Caddell secured his runner-up status in the Championship, 41 points behind Champion Saini.

Malkhassian was the benefactor of a late-race incident between Cross and the No. 31 Team MER/Feed the Need MX-5 of Frankie Muniz, from Los Angeles, Calif. The two came together in Turn One while battling for second on lap 10. As both cars slid off course, Malkhassian breezed through for the second spot.

While Malkhassian crossed the line in second, race officials deemed some of his earlier race actions too aggressive and disqualified him, as well as Mark Jenkins from the race.

With fierce battles raging throughout the field, Michaelian, had one of the quietest races on the track, starting third and finishing second following Malkhassian’s disqualification. It was a career-best grid and finishing position for the No. 19 Hooverspeed/Shozilla.com MX-5 driver who got caught behind Caddell on the start of the race and fell back to ninth, but kept his nose clean throughout the 11-lap, 49.346-mile race for his first podium finish.

“I got held up a little bit on the start and shuffled back,” Michaelian said. “There was a lot of action going on ahead of us though so we got helped out by some attrition. I’ve got to thank Jason Hoover for giving me such a good car that was consistent throughout the race. There were no mistakes on our part and we just drove it home to the finish.

“This is a great series, so a big thanks to Mazda for doing this. I definitely want to run this MX-5 again next year.”

The No. 56 BSI/Team Garcia/MOMO/Joe Gibbs MX-5 of Todd Buras, from Melbourne, Fla., and the No. 88 DEX/Western Companies/RPM MX-5 of Salt Lake City driver Pratt Cole exchanged positions several times on the final lap, before Buras, who started from pit lane, claimed the third-place spot. Cole’s fourth-place was enough to leap-frog him to a fourth-place finish in the Championship.

Jason Saini nursed his ailing car to a fifth-place finish. Saini clinched the Championship in the previous round in Trois-Rivieres and has won himself a ride with a Mazda team in next year’s SCCA SPEED Touring Car Championship.

Starting 29th on the grid, Charles Espenlaub, of Lutz, Fla., charged through the field and picked up a massive 22 positions to finish sixth.

Barry Fromberg, Andrew Carbonell, Rick Bellew, and Grey’s Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey completed the top 10. It was the first top-10 finish for Dempsey.

Following his incident with Muniz, Cross continued on to finish 10th on the track, but following the race, officials penalized Cross three positions for blocking, while in the lead.

The penalty dropped Cross to sixth in the final Championship standings, a single point behind Combs who finished the season in fifth. Carbonell, Fromberg, Michaelian and Buras filled out the top 10 in the Championship.

Shortly after technical inspections concluded, the first annual MX-5 Cup Pit Crew Challenge took place. Teams could enter two crew members per car, who were given the task of installing the flywheel and transmission sans power equipment and then driving the car under its own power across the finish line, 20 feet away. Getting the job done in 6.09 minutes was Alara Racing’s Jacob Oberg and Mike Yoes, who each won a Skip Barber Racing School courtesy of Mazda.

All races from the 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup season will be broadcast on SPEED. Check www.mx-5cup.com for a TV schedule to be posted shortly.

Results from Saturday’s 11-lap, 49.346-mile SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Eight SCCA MX-5 Cup race, part of the 2007 Sunchaser 1000 at Miller Motorsports Park with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps and reason out (if any).

1. (1), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 11
2. (3), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 11, -6.713.
3. (11), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 11, -9.368.
4. (14), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 11, -9.712.
5. (2), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 11, -11.528.
6. (29), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 11, -13.631.
7. (21), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 11, -14.213.
8. (9), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 11, -14.602.
9. (30), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 11, -21.755.
10. (12), Patrick Dempsey, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 11, -22.975.
11. (24), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 11, -23.636.
12. (4), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 11, -20.677.
13. (8), Mike Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 11, -28.654.
14. (15), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 11, -29.647.
15. (17), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 11, -29.832.
16. (19), Mike Gatto, Cumming, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 11, -30.223.
17. (26), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 11, -32.712.
18. (18), Alison Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 11, -32.759.
19. (27), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 11, -33.436.
20. (20), Rick Skelton, Atlanta, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 11, -33.541.
21. (25), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 11, -33.699.
22. (23), Brad Adams, New Orleans, La., Mazda MX-5, 11, -36.661.
23. (22), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 11, -42.524.
24. (28), Ian Ziering, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 11, -2:10.097.
25. (6), Frankie Muniz, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 10, -1 lap.
26. (10), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 0, Crash.
27. (7), Simona DeSilvestro, Thun Switzerland, , Mazda MX-5, 0, Crash.
28. (16), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 0, Crash.
29. (13), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 11, -6.388.
30. (5), Mark Jenkins, McKinney, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3, Tire.

Time of race: 41 minutes, 48.703 seconds.
Average speed: 70.811 mph
Margin of victory: 6.713 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-7, #28 Jason Saini; laps 8-8, #80 Matt Cross; laps 9-11, #30 Andrew Caddell
Hawk Hot Lap: #30 Andrew Caddell, 3:22.144 (79.891 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #30 Andrew Caddell, 3:23.601 (79.319 mph)

SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Championship Points
After Eight of Eight Rounds
Ps., Driver, Points (Wins)
1, Jason Saini, 242 (5)
2, Andrew Caddell, 201 (2)
3, Ara Malkhassian, 161 (1)
4, Pratt Cole, 139
5, Jesse Combs, 135
6, Matt Cross, 134
7, Andrew Carbonell, 121
8, Barry Fromberg, 120
9, Bob Michaelian, 118
10, Todd Buras, 113

Attached image: Andrew Caddell takes the checkered flag at Miller Motorsports Park.
Credit: Juha Lievonen

Posted On 9/16/07

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Caddell Scores Pole For MX-5 Cup Finale In Utah

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 02:55:11 PST

Caddell Scores Pole For MX-5 Cup Finale In Utah
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOOELE, Utah (Sept. 14, 2007) – Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., captured his second-career SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup pole today for Saturday’s season finale at Miller Motorsports Park, part of the Sunchaser 1000 weekend. Teammate and series Champion Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, will start second.

Driving the No. 30 Team MER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5, Caddell clocked the session’s fastest time of 2:23.601 (79.319 mph) around the 23-turn, 4.486-mile circuit to win the pole. Caddell also earned the pole at the series’ fifth race at Cleveland’s Burke Lakefront Airport in June.

“It’s very important to be on pole at this track,” said Caddell, who is battling with Ara Malkhassian for second in the Championship. “It’s a big track and there’s lots of passing zones. For me to be on pole and Ara [Malkhassain] to be starting 13th, that gives us a pretty good gap. I think we have to finish about two positions or so behind him to keep second.

“We haven’t had a very good handling car all weekend, the car’s been pushing real bad. This session it seemed way worse and I think everyone else was too. There were a lot of rocks out there, a lot of dust, and there was some oil down from the session before. There was just no grip at all.

“I’m going to see if I can work together with Jason [Saini] and maybe in the last three or four laps if we have enough of a gap, have a good fight.”

Saini, who clinched the series Championship and a ride in the 2008 SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship with Mazda, was second fastest in the session with a time of 3:23.852 (79.222 mph).

Bob Michaelian, of Seal Beach, Calif., had his best qualifying effort of the year and will start third in his No. 19 Hooverspeed/Shopzilla.com Mazda MX-5 after turning a lap of 3:25.356 (78.642 mph). Teammate Matt Cross, of Folsom, Calif., will start fourth in his No. 80 Hooverspeed/MobiTV Mazda MX-5 with a time of 3:25.415 (78.619 mph).

Mark Jenkins, of McKinney, Texas, equaled his career-best qualifying effort of fifth in his No. 22 Traxxas.com Mazda MX-5.

Actor-turned-racer Frankie Muniz, Simona DeSilvestro, Mark Jenkins, Andrew Carbonell and Jesse Combs completed the top 10.

Actors Patrick Dempsey and Ian Ziering qualified 12th and 28th, respectively.

Saturday’s season-ending Round Eight race will start at 9:45 a.m. (MDT). To follow all the action via live timing and scoring and lap notes, visit www.mx-5cup.com.

Starting lineup for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Eight part of the 2007 Sun Chaser 1000 at Miller Motorsports Park, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 3:23.601, 79.319.
2, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:23.852, 79.222.
3, (19), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:25.356, 78.642.
4, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:25.415, 78.619.
5, (22), Mark Jenkins, McKinney, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:25.424, 78.616.
6, (31), Frankie Muniz, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:25.656, 78.527.
7, (14), Simona DeSilvestro, Thun Switzerland, , Mazda MX-5, 3:25.666, 78.523.
8, (47), Mike Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:25.730, 78.499.
9, (58), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 3:25.980, 78.403.
10, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:26.204, 78.318.
11, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 3:26.205, 78.318.
12, (29), Patrick Dempsey, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:26.324, 78.273.
13, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:26.705, 78.128.
14, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 3:26.838, 78.078.
15, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 3:26.999, 78.017.
16, (83), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:27.180, 77.949.
17, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:27.276, 77.913.
18, (12), Alison Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:27.453, 77.847.
19, (57), Mike Gatto, Cumming, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 3:27.575, 77.801.
20, (25), Rick Skelton, Atlanta, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 3:27.840, 77.702.
21, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:27.937, 77.665.
22, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 3:27.985, 77.648.
23, (54), Brad Adams, New Orleans, La., Mazda MX-5, 3:28.898, 77.308.
24, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 3:28.908, 77.304.
25, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 3:28.981, 77.277.
26, (21), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 3:29.009, 77.267.
27, (01), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 3:30.442, 76.741.
28, (23), Ian Ziering, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:50.569, 70.042.
29, (08), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 3:51.914, 69.636.
30, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, no time.

Attached image: MX-5 Cup finale polesitter Andrew Caddell.
Credit: Juha Lievonen

Posted On 9/14/07

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USTCC Races to be Broadcast on TV

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 12:08:22 PST

USTCC Races to be Broadcast on TV
By Ali Arsham, USTCC

Richmond, CA (September 14, 2007) -- The Hankook United States Touring Car Championship (USTCC) took a big step forward by announcing a new television package that will broadcast selected races on cable television with the new program Final Drive shown in tape delay format. Until now the races were shown in quick highlight format on the Internet. Starting with the Buttonwilllow race on October 13-14, 2007 the races will be shown on cable TV in selected California markets. With the start of the 2008 season, the races will also be shown on more Internet channels as well. Currently, USTCC enjoys a partnership with WheelsTV where one can watch all of the action. In 2008, one will also be able to watch the races on many other video sites as well as many magazine sites such as Grassroots Motorsports magazine’s website.

The 30 minute weekly show will seen by over 3,000,000 households at the start and the number will go up as more stations pick up the show. It will cover the USTCC racing action and have special segments on drivers, teams and their cars. The first show is scheduled to air in November 2007.

For those living outside the California market, the entire 30 minute show will also be available to watch for free on the USTCC website (www.ustcc.com) and the Final Drive website (www.finaldrive.net). More information will be available as more details are finalized.

Posted On 9/14/07

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BMW CCA Club Racing Revises Yokohama Spec E36 Series Rules

Thu, 13 Sep 2007 11:42:08 PST

BMW CCA Club Racing Revises Yokohama Spec E36 Series Rules
By Mark Dadgar, BMW CCA Club Racing

Greenville, SC (Sept. 14. 2007) -- Taking advantage of the mid-year rules change process, BMW CCA Club Racing today announced refinements to the rules for Yokohama Spec E36™, the club's popular new spec race class. Designed to produce close racing in a fun environment, Spec E36 cars are relatively inexpensive to prepare and maintain.

"Spec E36 has been off to a great start since its launch at the start of the 2007 season," said BMW CCA Club Racing Chairman Mike Mills. "But the first racers to build cars for the series have provided us with some solid feedback and we've chosen to adopt much of it to improve the experience for all of the Spec E36 racers going forward."

New changes to the rules include the addition of 17" wheels through the end of 2008, at which point the 17" wheels will become required, the specification of a spec rain tire, the mandating of a 3.15 rear end ratio beginning with the 2009 season, and a variety of other small changes to improve reliability and safety.

"Our racers spoke and we listened," Mills continued. "As a result, we worked with our series partner, Yokohama Tire Corporation, to address some of their main concerns. Expect lots of exciting racing as a result!"

The Spec E36™ class is designed around a set of 1992-1998 6-cylinder BMW 3-series (non-M3) race cars which are prepared to a uniform level. The modifications required or allowed are intended to produce a fun, fast racing vehicle that feels like a true race car yet remains relatively inexpensive to prepare and maintain.

For more information and a copy of the revised 2007 BMW CCA Club Racing rules, please visit:

http://www.bmwccaclubracing.com

About BMW CCA Club Racing
Founded in 1995, BMW CCA Club Racing offers all BMW CCA licensed club racers a competitive driving experience conducted in a fun, safe, and friendly environment for all types of factory authorized or constructed BMWs. For more information, please visit our web site at www.bmwccaclubracing.com

About BMW CCA
The BMW Car Club of America has over 76,000 members and 65 chapters within the United States. BMW CCA's mission is to enhance the BMW experience for its members by providing services, support, information, and activities that promote camaraderie and encourage social awareness and responsibility. The BMW CCA National Office may be reached at (864) 250-0022.

Contact:
Mark Dadgar
Marketing Director, BMW CCA Club Racing
mark@justracing.com
(408) 348-2878

Posted On 9/13/07

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Malkhassian Fastest in MX-5 Cup Practice at Utah

Thu, 13 Sep 2007 03:09:23 PST

Malkhassian Fastest in MX-5 Cup Practice at Utah
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOOELE, Utah (Sept. 13, 2007) – Ara Malkhassian’s morning practice time at Miller Motorsports Park for Round Eight of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup, part of the Sunchaser 1000, was the fastest time of the day at the 4.486-mile track. Jesse Combs, of Woodlands, Texas, and Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, were second and third quick, respectively.

Registering a lap of 3:21.612 (80.102 mph) in the morning session, Malkhassian and his No. 11 Alara Racing MX-5 could not be topped in the second 30-minute practice session of the day.

“This is a great track,” Malkhassian said. “What’s difficult about it, is putting together a good lap, because it’s 23 corners. It’s a challenge being able to piece together a good lap and we’re glad we were able to do that today in practice. Ken Murillo, our crew chief, is outstanding and I have to thank Red Line Oil for their support.

“We’ve been testing here quite a bit, trying to find different setups and I think we’ve found a good one. The car feels great and it’ll be even better with new tires.”

Malkhassian’s teammate Combs would also retain his spot in second on the time sheets through the afternoon session. The No. 7 Coolgas Ltd./Alara Racing MX-5 driver turned a lap of 3:22.053 (79.699 mph) in the morning session.

Although he was able to pick up some time in the afternoon session, Saini didn’t find enough to advance from the third spot. The newly crowned MX-5 Cup Champion improved to a 3:22.260 (79.845 mph) in his No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/SafeRacer.com MX-5.

Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., who is currently battling Malkhassian for second in the Championship, was unable to improve on his morning time and retained the fourth spot. The No. 30 TeamMER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5 driver entered a 3:22.718 (79.665 mph).

Driving the No. 19 Hooverspeed MX-5, Bob Michaelian, of Seal Beach, Calif., found 0.1-second in the second session, maintaining his spot in fifth with a 3:23.327 (79.426 mph).

Matt Cross, Pratt Cole, Charles Espenalub, Simona De Silvestro and Tim Probert completed the top ten.

The afternoon session was stopped briefly for the No. 08 Patron Tequila Mazda MX-5 of Espenlaub who was disabled on course at Turn 22 with apparent electrical problems.

Qualifying for Round Eight of the MX-5 Cup will take place Friday at 11:00 a.m. (MDT). Living timing and lap notes are available at www.mx-5cup.com

Combined practice results for Saturday’s SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Eight part of the 2007 Sunchaser 1000 at Miller Motorsports Park, with position, car number in parentheses, driver,hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:21.612, 80.102.
2, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:22.053, 79.927.
3, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:22.260, 79.845.
4, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 3:22.718, 79.665.
5, (19), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:23.327, 79.426.
6, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:23.537, 79.344.
7, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 3:23.756, 79.259.
8, (08), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 3:23.831, 79.230.
9, (14), Simona DeSilvestro, Thun Switzerland, , Mazda MX-5, 3:23.975, 79.174.
10, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:24.155, 79.104.
11, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:24.254, 79.066.
12, (22), Mark Jenkins, McKinney, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:24.372, 79.020.
13, (31), Frankie Muniz, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:24.430, 78.998.
14, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 3:24.539, 78.956.
15, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 3:24.627, 78.922.
16, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 3:24.819, 78.848.
17, (58), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 3:24.894, 78.819.
18, (47), Mike Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:25.001, 78.778.
19, (12), Alison Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:25.050, 78.759.
20, (83), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:25.399, 78.625.
21, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 3:25.662, 78.525.
22, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 3:25.811, 78.468.
23, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 3:25.952, 78.414.
24, (25), Rick Skelton, Atlanta, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 3:26.011, 78.392.
25, (29), Patrick Dempsey, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:26.156, 78.336.
26, (57), Mike Gatto, Cumming, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 3:27.174, 77.951.
27, (21), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 3:27.536, 77.815.
28, (54), Brad Adams, New Orleans, La., Mazda MX-5, 3:28.142, 77.589.
29, (01), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 3:28.778, 77.353.
30, (23), Shannon McMasters, Granbury, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 4:44.206, 56.823.

Attached image: Ara Malkhassian
Credit: Juha Lievonen

Posted On 9/13/07

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Malkhassian Paces Morning MX-5 Cup Practice in Utah

Thu, 13 Sep 2007 02:38:05 PST

Malkhassian Paces Morning MX-5 Cup Practice in Utah
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOOELE, Utah (Sept. 13, 2007) – Ara Malkhassain, of Sonoma, Calif., topped the time sheets in the first practice session for Round Eight of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup at Miller Motorsports Park, part of the Sunchaser 1000 weekend. His teammate Jesse Combs, of Houston, Texas, and new MX-5 Cup Champion Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, were second and third fastest, respectively.

Already in the record books for the fastest MX-5 Cup race lap at Miller Motorsports Park, Malkhassian hasn’t missed a beat on his return to the 4.5-mile course. The driver of the No. 11 Alara Racing MX-5 turned the fastest lap of the morning session with a 3:21.612 (80.102 mph).

“This is a great track,” Malkhassian said. “What’s difficult about it, is putting together a good lap, because it’s 23 corners. It’s a challenge being able to piece together a good lap and we’re glad we were able to do that today in practice. Ken Murillo, our crew chief, is outstanding and I have to thank Red Line Oil for their support.

“We’ve been testing here quite a bit, trying to find different setups and I think we’ve found a good one. The car feels great and it’ll be even better with new tires.”

Malkhassian was followed by teammate Combs on the time sheets. Driving the No. 7 Coolgas Ltd. MX-5, Combs entered a 3:22.053 (79.927 mph).

Saini, who clinched this year’s Championship last month at Trois-Rivieres, was third fastest in the session, turning a 3:22.632 (79.699 mph) in his No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/Saferacer.com MX-5.

Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., who is currently battling Malkhassian for second in the Championship, ended the session in fourth. The No. 30 TeamMER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5 driver entered a 3:22.718 (79.665 mph).

Driving the No. 19 Hooverspeed MX-5, Bob Michaelian, of Seal Beach, Calif., completed the top five with a lap of 3:23.427 (79.387 mph).

Charles Espenlaub, Matt Cross, Pratt Cole, Tim Probert and Barry A. Fromberg completed the top ten.

The second MX-5 Cup practice session at Miller Motorsports Park is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. (EDT).

Results from first practice session for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Eight race part of the 2007 Sunchaser 1000 at Miller Motorsports Park, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:21.612, 80.102.
2, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:22.053, 79.927.
3, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:22.632, 79.699.
4, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 3:22.718, 79.665.
5, (19), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:23.427, 79.387.
6, (08), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 3:23.831, 79.230.
7, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:23.952, 79.183.
8, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 3:24.065, 79.139.
9, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:24.155, 79.104.
10, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:24.254, 79.066.
11, (22), Mark Jenkins, McKinney, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:24.372, 79.020.
12, (14), Simona DeSilvestro, Thun Switzerland, , Mazda MX-5, 3:24.388, 79.014.
13, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 3:24.627, 78.922.
14, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 3:24.819, 78.848.
15, (58), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 3:24.894, 78.819.
16, (47), Mike Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 3:25.001, 78.778.
17, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 3:25.113, 78.735.
18, (31), Frankie Muniz, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:25.351, 78.643.
19, (12), Alison Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:25.512, 78.582.
20, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 3:25.842, 78.456.
21, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 3:26.321, 78.274.
22, (29), Patrick Dempsey, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 3:27.383, 77.873.
23, (21), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 3:27.536, 77.815.
24, (54), Brad Adams, New Orleans, La., Mazda MX-5, 3:28.142, 77.589.
25, (25), Rick Skelton, Atlanta, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 3:29.780, 76.983.
26, (01), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 3:29.891, 76.942.
27, (57), Mike Gatto, Cumming, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 3:29.948, 76.922.
28, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 3:31.843, 76.233.
29, (23), Ian Ziering, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, no time.
30, (83), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, no time.

Attached image: No. 11 Ara Malkhassian
Credit: Juha Leivonen

Posted On 9/13/07

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BimmerWorld: Seth Thomas Mosport Race In-Car Highlights

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 05:06:07 PST

BimmerWorld: Seth Thomas Mosport Race In-Car Highlights
By Bimmerworld Media Services

Mosport proved a challenging weekend for the BimmerWorld BMW SPEED Touring Car team. With team owner and driver James Clay sidelined with a shoulder injury, and Mid-Ohio winner Joey Hand the victim of contact on the first lap, Seth Thomas carried the torch for the team as he worked his way forward from his 12th place starting position.

While the qualifying session held in rainy conditions didn’t produce the grid position he wanted, Thomas put in his standard ‘star’ performance, clawing up to 7thplace in the wildly competitive SPEED TC series.

We’ve taken the opening laps of Seth’s charge into the top-10 from his In-Car camera for you to enjoy—from his great start as the light go out to stalking of his prey throughout the up-and-down Mosport circuit, Thomas is busy as he asserts his skill and the impressive performance of his BimmerWorld BMW E90 chassis.

Enjoy Seth’s video here:

Posted On 9/12/07

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TrackMasters Racing Adds New Infineon Date To Track Event Schedule

Tue, 11 Sep 2007 10:19:22 PST

TrackMasters Racing Adds New Infineon Date To Track Event Schedule
By Doug Gale, TrackMasters Racing

TrackMasters Racing just picked-up Friday, Sept 21st at Infineon Raceway! However, this is the same day as their already scheduled event at Thunderhill.

Needless to say, they need drivers and hope that each of you can help spread the word wide and far between friends and the forums you may frequent. TMR has less than 10 days to fill these events! Check out the details, check your calenders, cancel the other plans you have, and attend one of these 2 events!!

The format for the two events are as follows:

Sept 21 - Thunderhill
This event was 4 run groups - Now it will be 3 run groups! (Advanced, Intermediate, and Novice) For those of you who choose to attend this event, the 3 group format will provide even more track time for each of you throughout the day!
Cost: $240
Includes continental breakfast and catered lunch.

Sept 21 - Infineon Raceway- NEW!!
Most likely 4 run groups(possibly 3 if the event doesn't fill to capacity) with one being an Advanced Racer run group for those who are really fast, and/or those who need practice prior to the NASA race weekend immediately following this event. At this time we are NOT planning on a Novice run group. However, we will take registrations for Novice just in case we have to quickly open a Novice run group to fill the event.
Cost: $300 (this week, then $320 starting Monday, Sept 17th) A great deal when some clubs are charging close to $300 for T-Hill events!
Includes continental breakfast and catered lunch.

As mentioned above, these events are just around the corner and we need drivers to sign-up immediately!
Go to www.trackmasters-racing.com to register.

Posted On 9/11/07

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Contingency Dollars Plentiful at ProSolo and Solo National Championships

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 10:31:04 PST

Contingency Dollars Plentiful at ProSolo and Solo National Championships
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Sept. 7, 2007) – In addition to the quest to become the next Champion, Soloists will be on a mad dash for contingency cash at this year’s Tire Rack ® SCCA Solo National Championships and ProSolo National Championship at Heartland Park Topeka. Nearly $1 million in cash and prizes will be up for grabs.

Auto manufacturers and tire makers dominate the two contingency menus. With cars competing in 23 ProSolo classes and 54 Solo National classes, Mazda leads the way for auto makers, posting $139,900 total for the two events. This includes $1,000 for a class win at either Championship event and an additional $1500 for a Hawk Super Challenge or Ladies Challenge win at the ProSolo National Championship. Toyota will also be offering $1,000 for a class win at either event. Solo National Champions driving a Volkswagen will have $1,000 coming their way as well, but will need to collect a Challenge win at the ProSolo National Championship to see the same cash. Honda, Ford, Nissan and Subaru are also offering similar programs paying anywhere from $500 to $1,000 for a class or Challenge win.

In addition to its contingency program, Honda has also increased its Tuner Challenge prize fund, now issuing $750 for a victory.

Kumho and Hankook’s offerings are both in the six digit mark. The two tire manufacturers each offer $800 for a class win at Solo Nationals and a cool $1,000 for a ProSolo class or Challenge win, though Hankook’s Challenge payout applies to the Hawk Super Challenge and Ladies Challenge only. Yokohama and Bridgestone will each be writing checks as well. Hoosier is also posting big numbers, but will be handing out tires, not cash. Third in class nabs you one tire, second place receives a pair, while a class or Challenge victory will snag you a set of Hoosier tires.

Grassroots Motorsports magazine has stepped up to the plate, paying $100 to all 2007 Solo National Champions eligible for the program. Race Technology is a first-time Solo contingency poster, issuing product certificates to first, second and third-place finishers at the Solo National Championships. Hawk Performance will also be offering product certificates to ProSolo class winners and of course, the Hawk Super Challenge winner.

The Solo National Championships also mark the last chance Soloists have to capture the Pace Hot Pursuit Award. The first eligible competitor with the least variance in run times on either course at Heartland Park Topeka, will automatically be entered to win a Pace Pursuit® trailer valued at $14,000. The drawing, which includes all Pace Hot Pursuit Award winners from this year’s Solo National Tour and SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T, will take place at Heartland Park during the Runoffs.

The Solo Championship season at Heartland Park Topeka kicks off September 21 – 22, with the Tire Rack SCCA ProSolo National Championship, followed by the Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Championships, September 25 – 28. For more information or to register for contingency programs, visit the Solo pages at www.scca.com

Attached image: Solo cars will be sporting plenty of decals at Heartland Park Topeka.
Credit: Digital Motorsports Photography

Posted On 9/7/07

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Full Day Of Racing And Special Guests Hightlight Final Day Of 15th Rolex Vintage Festival Presented By BMW

Mon, 03 Sep 2007 10:30:53 PST

Full Day Of Racing And Special Guests Hightlight Final Day Of 15th Rolex Vintage Festival Presented By BMW
By Meredith Powell, Hill & Knowlton

LAKEVILLE, Conn. – Cars resumed racing on Labor Day Monday at The Rolex Vintage Festival presented by BMW, as the weekend’s activities were brought to a close. Thousands of spectators lined the hills around Lime Rock Park to witness the eight entry groups compete on track in a series of 15-lap races.

The day also provided race fans the chance to hear from some of Lime Rock’s racing legends. Names such as track owner Skip Barber, former driver Bruce Kessler, former driver and track architect Sam Posey, former Lime Rock track manager Jim Haynes and this year’s guest of honor, John Bishop, gathered in the 50th anniversary tent to discuss their fond memories of Lime Rock Park and express appreciation of the 50-year-old venue.

“I’m proud of what Skip (Barber) has done here, the setting is just outstanding,” said Haynes. “I’ve never been at a track as nice as Lime Rock Park.”

“It’s a little out-of-the way place, but something about it captures the imagination,” said Posey.

Earlier in the afternoon, Friday’s honorees Bruce Kessler, John Fitch and John Bishop signed autographs at the Rolex “Moments in Time” display tent.

In race action, warm-up laps began the day’s activity, followed by honorary parade laps of Porsches, Mini Coopers, Italian cars and BMWs. The 15-lap races then began in the afternoon with group one, the pre-1941 Sports & Racing Cars, which was once again won by Peter Greenfield of Freeport, NY in a 1935 Alfa Romeo 8C-35.

Group two featured the 1946-1955 Sports Racing & Production Cars under 2000cc, again won by James Donick from Pleasant Valley, NY, with his 1951 Allard J-2. In group three, 1955-1963 Formula Cars, Murray Smith of Washington, CT won the checkered flag in a 1959 Cooper T51.

Vincent Irwin of Rye, NY won the group four race, 1955-1961 Sports Racing Cars, in a 1957 Lotus 11, edging out Saturday’s winner Richard Fryberger of Watertown, MA, also in a Lotus 11. Group five, the 1955-1962 GT/Production Cars under 2200cc, was another repeat from Saturday, won by Sandy Sadtler from Berwyn, PA, in a 1956 Porsche 356. Group six, a combined race between the 1956-1962 GT/Production over 2200cc & 1962-1964 under 2000cc, was won by James Freeman of New York, NY, in his 1959 Aston Martin DB4/G.

In group seven racing, Bob Herbert of Lenox, MA, won the 1962-1966 GT/Procution car class in a 1965 Jaguar XKE. The afternoon’s racing concluded with 1965-1972 FIA Sports Racing & Can-Am; IMSA GT Cars to 1980, won by Joel Finn of Roxbury, CT, in a 1971 Chevron B19.

Following the races, an award presentation took place in the BMW tent. Hosted by Steve Earle, president of General Racing, the awards recognized some of the best vehicles in show, along with race winners.

Eight Rolex trophies were awarded to group race winners for the performance and presentation of their vehicles, which included:

Group 1: Peter Greenfield; Freeport, NY; 1935 Alfa Romeo 8C-35
Group 2: Robert Millstein; Briarcliff Manor, NY; 1953 Hansgen Jaguar Spl.
Group 3: Terry Hefty; Lafayette, CO; 1961 Cooper T-53 FL
Group 4: Eno De Pasquale; Allworth, NH; 1959 EDP Chevy Spl.
Group 5: Michael Oritt; Solomons, MD; 1958 Elva Courier Mk1
Group 6: Jack Boxstrom; Picton, Ont; 1958 Ferrari 250 GT
Group 7: Jim Glass; Kinston, NY; 1965 Corvette
Group 8: Joel Finn; Roxbury, CT; 1971 Chevron B19

The Charlie Gibson Award, given to Brian MacEachern of Grantville, PA with his 1956 Lotus 11, honors an entry who has maintained great spirit and perseverance in restoring their vehicle. The award is named in memoriam to Charles Gibson, a well-loved former participant at Lime Rock who possessed these qualities in his many years at the track.

The Lime Rock Vintage Festival Trophy, the event’s main award given for overall excellence, was won by Syd Silverman of Rye, NY, with a 1959 Lister-Chevy and a 1948 MG-TC.

“I spent some time on the hillside with the spectators during the weekend, and what they really
love is watching these participants and their outstanding vehicles, and wishing it was them out there,” said Earle. “This group’s camaraderie is what really makes this event special.”

The Rolex Vintage Festival Presented by BMW
Organized by Lime Rock Vintage Events, The Rolex Vintage Festival presented by BMW is one of the largest vintage automobile celebrations on the East Coast, showcasing a diverse field of race cars on Friday, Saturday and Monday of Labor Day weekend that can span eight decades, from timeless pre-war classics to the roar of exotic prototypes from the 1980s.

General Racing and Lime Rock Vintage Events

Lime Rock Vintage Events is the official race organizer of The Rolex Vintage Festival presented by BMW. Lime Rock Vintage Events is a partnership between General Racing and Lime Rock Associates.

General Racing stages premier events across the United States to celebrate classic, historic, and vintage racing cars, where they can be shown and driven as intended. General Racing encourages the restoration of the cars as they once were and helps to preserve and promote and the history of motorsports through these events.

General Racing events include The Rolex Monterey Historic presented by Toyota at the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, CA; The Rolex Vintage Festival presented by BMW at Lime Rock Park in Lakeville, CT; the Wine Country Classic at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, CA; and the Coronado Speed Festival presented by North Island Credit Union at NAS North Island in Coronado, CA. Additional information is available at www.generalracing.com.

Posted On 9/3/07

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25th Rolex Vintage Festival Presented By BMW Draws Thousands To Lime Rock Park

Sun, 02 Sep 2007 01:42:22 PST

25th Rolex Vintage Festival Presented By BMW Draws Thousands To Lime Rock Park
By Meredith Powell, Hill & Knowlton

Automobile Extravaganza and Car Show Awards Highlight Day Three; Spectators Treated to Automotive Shopping Experience

LAKEVILLE, Conn. – Although official racing did not occur on Sunday at the Rolex Vintage Festival, thousands of spectators flocked to Lime Rock Park to witness an extraordinary display of vehicles that graced the main straight. Per agreements with the surrounding areas, racing is suspended on Sundays, but the Sunday in the Park Automobile Extravaganza allowed spectators to see some of the best cars in the world, in addition to the Lime Rock Car Show, Shelby Sable and the Automobilia Mall.

The Masterpiece Collector exhibit featured a 1933 Le Mans-winning Alfa Romeo driven by Tazio Nuvolari and a Ferrari TR61, another Le Mans winner, driven by Phil Hill and Oliver Gendebien. Additionally, two more Ferraris from New Hampshire were present, including the 121LM prototype and a 1964 GTO.

The Plastic Fantastics display celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Lotus Elite, along with display vehicles from Porsche, Aston Martin, BMW, Rolls Royce, Bentley and Corvette.

Another fan favorite which made an appearance on Sunday was the timeless Woodie, a famous surf accessory and classic travel vehicle. The Pick of the Paddock also brought out some of the best cars racing during event weekend.

The Genius of Dr. Porsche was honored this year with a group of cars from the designer, including one of the best Volkswagons in the country and a Porsche Turbo that made its first-ever U.S. appearance.

The Lime Rock Car Show included a number of sporting and sedan class cars, including Healeys, Dodges, Hudsons and Ferraris from various entrants.

The afternoon concluded with an awards presentation for some of the best vehicles on the track. Awards were given for a variety of categories including the Ladies’ Choice Award and the Pick of the Paddock. The Best of Show Award was presented to Roland Houde of Andover, MA, for his 1954 Cunningham C-3 Continental Couple. This was the first time that Houde had entered the car in a show.

“Sunday at the Rolex Vintage Festival is special because spectators and fellow racers have a chance to see these special vehicles up close,” said Steve Earle, president of event organizer Lime Rock Vintage Events. “When you have the opportunity to look inside of the cars and under their engines, it really makes you appreciate them as true works of art.”

Along with vehicles on display, the traditional Automobilia Mall and Lime Rock Flea Market allowed fans to survey and purchase automotive-related merchandise from vendors throughout the Northeast.

Monday Preview: Festival Concludes With Labor Day Racing

The motors will be revving again on Monday, with warm-up laps in the morning by all groups and 15-lap races throughout the afternoon. The 25th Rolex Vintage Festival presented by BMW will officially conclude with a final awards ceremony afterwards.

The Rolex Vintage Festival Presented by BMW
Organized by Lime Rock Vintage Events, The Rolex Vintage Festival presented by BMW is one of the largest vintage automobile celebrations on the East Coast, showcasing a diverse field of race cars on Friday, Saturday and Monday of Labor Day weekend that can span eight decades, from timeless pre-war classics to the roar of exotic prototypes from the 1980s.

General Racing and Lime Rock Vintage Events

Lime Rock Vintage Events is the official race organizer of The Rolex Vintage Festival presented by BMW. Lime Rock Vintage Events is a partnership between General Racing and Lime Rock Associates.

General Racing stages premier events across the United States to celebrate classic, historic, and vintage racing cars, where they can be shown and driven as intended. General Racing encourages the restoration of the cars as they once were and helps to preserve and promote and the history of motorsports through these events.
General Racing events include The Rolex Monterey Historic presented by Toyota at the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, CA; The Rolex Vintage Festival presented by BMW at Lime Rock Park in Lakeville, CT; the Wine Country Classic at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, CA; and the Coronado Speed Festival presented by North Island Credit Union at NAS North Island in Coronado, CA. Additional information is available at www.generalracing.com.

Posted On 9/2/07

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25th Rolex Vntage Festival Presented By BMW Kicks Off With Friday Celebration Dinner, Races Commence On Saturday

Sat, 01 Sep 2007 01:42:48 PST

25th Rolex Vntage Festival Presented By BMW Kicks Off With Friday Celebration Dinner, Races Commence On Saturday
By Meredith Powell, Hill & Knowlton

Honorees Bruce Kessler, John Fitch and John Bishop Recognized; Race Groups Begin Competition Saturday Afternoon

LAKEVILLE, Conn. – The Rolex Vintage Festival presented by BMW commenced its silver anniversary event on Friday with a series of practice laps by race groups throughout the day, followed by an honorary dinner to recognize motorsports pioneers and raise money for charitable organizations.

Race entrants and fans flocked to the scenic surroundings of Lime Rock Park, now in its 50th year, to witness the 25th running of the Rolex Vintage Festival. Practice groups began mid-morning with the pre-1941 Sports and Racing Cars, and ended in early afternoon with the 1965-1972 FIA Sports Racing & Can-Am; IMSA GT Cars to 1980. The groups then repeated laps later in the afternoon.

“We’re delighted to join the great people here at Lime Rock, along with our sponsors Rolex and BMW, for another exciting Labor Day weekend of racing,” said Steve Earle, president of Lime Rock Vintage Events, the official race organizer. “It’s been 25 years, but the variety of cars we see on the track brings fans back again and again.”

Following the day’s activity on the track, entrants and event VIPs gathered for a welcome dinner to honor racing legends Bruce Kessler and John Fitch, who placed second and third respectively in the first race at Lime Rock in 1957, as well as John Bishop for his lifelong work in motorsports.

With more than 50 years in motortsports, Bishop helped create three of the most exciting and successful organizations in history, including the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA), Camel GT and the United States Road Racing Championship (USRRC), along with his leadership with the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA). Bishop had an influence on both top sports-car series currently running, and more importantly, his work represents the entire history of post-war road racing.

During the night’s festivities, host Murray Smith had the opportunity to interview Bishop. When asked how IMSA began, Murray spoke of the fond memory. “We had a meeting with Jim France, and he loaned us the money to get IMSA going,” said Bishop. “It wouldn’t even be enough to pay for racing tires today! But it allowed us to get started and to run it like a professional business-not just a club.”

The evening also provided an opportunity for attendees to win exclusive memorabilia, including a signed helmet by Paul Newman and Skip Barber, and a commemorative 50th anniversary painting by local artist Pieter Lefferts. The helmet, auctioned for $4,000, was designed to reflect the outdoor theme of both Lime Rock Park and the Newman’s Hole in the Wall Gang Camp. All proceeds from the helmet auction went to the Camp, an organization for seriously ill children.

The oil painting celebrated 50 years of Lime Rock Park by creating a scene at the track with iconic race vehicles through the years. The painting received an auction price of $3,200, which benefits the Survive the Drive program, a driver education program founded by instructor Bob Green.

After another series of practice laps on Saturday morning, official racing began with 10 laps from each of the groups in the afternoon, beginning with the pre-1941 Sports & Racing Cars. This first race was won by Peter Greenfield from Freeport, NY, in his 1935 Alfa Romeo 8C-35.

Group two featured the 1946-1955 Sports Racing & Production Cars under 2000cc, which was won by James Donick from Pleasant Valley, NY, with his 1951 Allard J-2. In group three, the 1955-1963 Formula Cars, Bob Goeldner of Osprey, FL, took the checkered flag in a 1962 Brabham BT2.

Richard Fryberger of Watertown, MA, won the group four race, 1955-1961 Sports Racing Cars, in a 1958 Lotus 11. Group five, the 1955-1962 GT/Production Cars under 2200cc, was taken by Sandy Sadtler from Berwyn, PA, with a 1956 Porsche 356. Group six, a combined race between the 1956-1962 GT/Production over 2200cc & 1962-1964 under 2000cc, provided the closest finish of the day, with Herb Wetanson in a 1962 Lotus 7 edging out fellow New Yorker James Freeman in a 1959 Aston Martin DB4/G.

In group seven racing, Jack Busch of Lenox, MA, won the 1962-1966 GT/Procution car class in a 1962 Jaguar XKE. The afternoon’s racing concluded with 1965-1972 FIA Sports Racing & Can-Am; IMSA GT Cars to 1980, won by Joel Finn of Roxbury, CT, in a 1971 Chevron B19.

Sunday Preview: Automobile Extravaganza and Lime Rock Car Show

Racing will be halted on Sunday, but the show continues with the Rolex Vintage Festival Sunday in the Park Automotive Extravaganza, which will display historical vehicles, including multiple LeMans winners, a 50th anniversary Lotus Elite celebration and Porsche Turbo making its first U.S. appearance.

The Lime Rock Vintage Swap Meet, also located on the Lime Rock track, will provide race fans an opportunity to buy motorsports merchandise and memorabilia throughout the day from a number of vendors.

The Rolex Vintage Festival Presented by BMW
Organized by Lime Rock Vintage Events, The Rolex Vintage Festival presented by BMW is one of the largest vintage automobile celebrations on the East Coast, showcasing a diverse field of race cars on Friday, Saturday and Monday of Labor Day weekend that can span eight decades, from timeless pre-war classics to the roar of exotic prototypes from the 1980s.

General Racing and Lime Rock Vintage Events

Lime Rock Vintage Events is the official race organizer of The Rolex Vintage Festival presented by BMW. Lime Rock Vintage Events is a partnership between General Racing and Lime Rock Associates.

General Racing stages premier events across the United States to celebrate classic, historic, and vintage racing cars, where they can be shown and driven as intended. General Racing encourages the restoration of the cars as they once were and helps to preserve and promote and the history of motorsports through these events.

Posted On 9/1/07

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Mosport Races Air This Weekend on SPEED, Original Times Reversed

Thu, 30 Aug 2007 09:51:58 PST

Mosport Races Air This Weekend on SPEED, Original Times Reversed
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (Aug. 29, 2007) – All the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge thrills and spills from north of the border air this weekend on SPEED.

The SCCA SPEED GT race kicks things off at 1:00 p.m. (EDT) and the field has to make the tough call to go with either wet or dry tires on a damp, but drying course. Lawson Aschenbach starts the race from his first career-pole alongside Randy Pobst, but when the lights go out, the front row remains stationary. See who makes it through scathed and unscathed, and if a dry tire choice pays off for any World Challenge competitor willing to roll the dice. If you miss it the first time, catch the replays on Wednesday, September 5 at 1:00 p.m. and Friday, September 7 at 3:00 a.m.

Following the SCCA SPEED GT race at 2:00 p.m. (EDT), tune in for the SCCA SPEED Touring Car race from Mosport. STaSIS Audis take up the first three spots on the grid. Another first time polesitter, Adam Pecorari, will find teammate Chip Herr to be his biggest competition and likewise for the RealTime Acuras of Pierre Kleinubing and Canadian Kuno Wittmer. The more important question however, is where did Charles Espenlaub get that beer? Watch it all again Friday, September 7 at 4:00 a.m.

The two races were originally scheduled to air in the reverse order, but a recent schedule change now places the SCCA SPEED GT race before the Touring Car race on the programming schedule. The SPEEDtv.com website will be updated shortly to reflect the change.

Round Nine of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Championships will be a part of the Petit Le Mans weekend at Road Atlanta, October 3 - 4. Until then, visit www.world-challenge.com for the latest news.

Attached image: Start of the SCCA SPEED Touring Car race at Mosport.
Credit: ©SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 8/30/07

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Runoffs Announce Crew Links 2007 Event to Years Past, Conway and Fippin To Work Booth

Thu, 30 Aug 2007 09:48:32 PST

Runoffs Announce Crew Links 2007 Event to Years Past, Conway and Fippin To Work Booth
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (August 29, 2007) – Sports Car Club of America and Heartland Park Topeka jointly announced today that Ed Conway and John Fippin will serve as the event announcers for the 44th SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T.

Thirty-six of the last 37 Runoffs events have featured the familiar voices of either Conway or Fippin, who will work together for the first time at Heartland Park Topeka.

Conway has been the longtime voice of both Road Atlanta (since 1970) and Road America (since 1990), serving as the event announcer for the Runoffs in its days at Road Atlanta from 1970 through 1993. Fippin, the lead announcer at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, called all 12 Runoffs in Ohio from 1994 through 2005.

“The Runoffs is always evolving as an event, but bringing in not only some familiar voices from the past, but also two of the most knowledgeable Club Racing announcers in the country, will help to deliver the atmosphere that participants and spectators expect,” SCCA VP Marketing & Communications Eric Prill said.

“A key component to any motorsports experience is knowing exactly what is happening during the race,” Heartland Park Topeka General Manager Lou Carroso said. “These two legendary voices are staples in the motorsports business and will provide race fans visiting Heartland Park Topeka the best information to ensure an enjoyable experience during the three days of racing.”

About:

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. More than 700 of the best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka’s 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the “Olympics” of motorsports.

Heartland Park Topeka, a multi-purpose racing facility located in Topeka, Kan., annually hosts NHRA POWERade drag racing, Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) and many other pro and amateur drag racing, road racing and dirt racing events throughout the race season.

Posted On 8/30/07

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ACNA Driver Safety School at Buttonwillow Raceway!

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 04:39:39 PST

ACNA Driver Safety School at Buttonwillow Raceway!
By Vikki Leary, ACNA

Calling all Audi Enthusiasts!!

Don't go to ACNA Nationals full of cobwebs! Shake them off at Buttonwillow Raceway with the Southern California Chapter, on Saturday and Sunday, September 8-9!!

*INSTRUCTORS ARE NEEDED FOR THIS EVENT!*

Learn greater car control! Learn skills that will allow you to be a safer driver on and off the track! Learn about vehicle dynamics and how your own car performs! Whether you're young or old, salty or peppery, man, woman, or beast over 18 years of age, come out for a weekend of fun and Audi-style camaraderie at this upcoming ACNA Driver Safety School in the inimitable Buttonwillow CA, where sunshine and warm vibes abound!!

Beginners will receive classroom instruction and will participate in a series of skid-pad exercises before putting their new skills to use on the track, guided by an experienced ACNA instructor in their own passenger seat. More advanced drivers will have ample time to fine tune their own technique and to get some seat time before Nationals in October!

Regardless of experience level, novice and expert alike can expect a fun, friendly, casual event that will allow them to improve their driving skills and learn more about the characteristics and capabilities of their own cars.

For event information and to register, please visit this URL:

When:
Saturday and Sunday, September 8-9, 2007

Where:
Buttonwillow Raceway, Buttonwillow, CA
(full track with Bus Stop, run clockwise)

Costs:
Students: $395.00
Instructors: $160.00
Garage Rentals: $150.00 (limited availability - each garage can accommodate 2 vehicles)
Helmet Rentals: $40.00
Guest Dinner and Lunch Fee: $35.00

Accommodations:
Super 8 Buttonwillow
20681 Tracy Ave.
Buttonwillow, CA 93206
661-764-5117
(Be sure to ask for the $50.00 per night Audi Club rate)

If you have any questions whatsoever, please contact Robert Gedeon directly by email, at robert@sccaudi.com, or by phone at 310-486-0901.

Again, instructors are still needed for this event. There’s been strong student enrollment. Instructors - enjoy yourselves while helping ACNA spread the passion. We appreciate your support!!

Posted On 8/29/07

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BimmerWorld Encounters More Lows Than Highs At Mosport

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 10:04:20 PST

BimmerWorld Encounters More Lows Than Highs At Mosport
By Bimmerworld Media Services

Two of Three BMW E90 SPEED Touring Car Drivers Suffer ‘Character Building’ Weekend; Seth Thomas Gains Five Spots to Finish 7th.

Dublin, VA (8/28/07) -- The BimmerWorld BMW SPEED World Challenge Touring Car had an unexpectedly rough weekend at Mosport, coming off the highs of starting 3rd and 4th at the last round in Mid-Ohio, with Joey Hand translating his 4th grid position into the first professional win for BimmerWorld, and their in-house developed BMW E90 chassis.

Hand, still riding a wave of excitement from his debut win in the series, had cause to completely forget the 8th round of the Touring Car season at in eastern Canada. Damage in Friday practice required all new bodywork, a new radiator, and the hard working BimmerWorld crew to replace his engine overnight.

Qualifying would prove no better for Hand, with the majority of his time during the rainy session spent on pit lane as electrical gremlins were diagnosed. Forced to start from the back of the grid but no less determined to charge to the front of the pack, Hand’s good intentions were met with damaged right-rear suspension after being clobbered from behind on the opening lap. Joey’s race ended immediately.

Team owner James Clay, happily returning to the seat after sitting out the Mid-Ohio round to finish preparation on his new car, got off to an even worse start by falling from the team’s transporter while unloading the three BimmerWorld BMW’s. His race would be over before the car turned a wheel.

Clay, with his dislocated shoulder and arm in a sling, found some salvation to the weekend by being invited into the broadcast booth to commentate during SPEED’s World Challenge Touring Car coverage. An MRI is scheduled for this week and Clay’s ability to race in the final two rounds will be determined following the exam.

Seth Thomas provided the one ray of light to break through the dark cloud that followed his team mates. Thomas, having suffered heartbreak with a broken transmission at Mid-Ohio while starting 3rd, was due to rebound strongly from that misfortune.

Fast in testing and in practice, Thomas adapted to the wet qualifying session to post 12th fastest time. While he was disappointed not to repeat his Mid-Ohio qualifying position, Thomas was confident he’d show better in the race—what was expected to be the first properly dry session of the weekend.

With a strong launch when the starting lights went out, Seth turned in another clean, consistent, and aggressive race. In a dogged 50 minute event, Thomas never had a moment to breathe or an inch to give as he fought amongst the factory Acura’s and Mazda’s, ultimately bringing his E90 home in 7th place. He also earned the Toyo Cup, the award given to the top independent driver in each event.the award given to the top finishing non-factory driver at each event.

While Seth took a bullet at Mid-Ohio, his team mates had the target on their backs at Mosport. With over a month before the penultimate round at Road Atlanta, Thomas’ home race, expect the Georgia native to be an even bigger threat for the win. With Clay and Hand only capable of having decidedly better weekends than Mosport afforded them, a duo or trio of BimmerWorld E90’s on the podium at Petit Le Mans isn’t out of the question.

Courtesy: BimmerWorld Media Services
mediaservices@bimmerworld.com

More information about the team, cars, and drivers can be found at www.bimmerworldracing.com
Information on BimmerWorld’s Customer Car Services can be found at www.bimmerworld.com
Details on PowerFlex Suspension Bushings can be found at www.powerflexusa.com

The BimmerWorld team is proudly supported by: BMW USA, Diffsonline, Moton, Performance Friction, BBS, Bimmerforums.com, Ground Control, JB Racing, Rogue Engineering, Silkolene, and Sunbelt Performance Engines.

Posted On 8/29/07

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Reindl Finishes Season on Top at Packwood ProSolo

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 10:51:00 PST

Reindl Finishes Season on Top at Packwood ProSolo
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

PACKWOOD, Wash. (Aug. 28, 2007) – The Tire Rack® SCCA ProSolo series wrapped up its regular season this past weekend at Hampton Mills under the watchful gaze of Mt. Rainer.

Unlike The Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Tour that breezed through the area the previous weekend, the Packwood ProSolo was blessed with dry, albeit cool, weather all weekend. The low temps and tight Karen Babb-designed courses seemed to give a slight edge to the all-wheel drive entrants, with six AWD cars taking class wins and seven finishing runner-up.

Not so in the Hawk Super Challenge however, where the D Stock RapidHosting.com Acura Integra of Kinch Reindl, from Denver, Colo., faced off against the Kumho/Forgeline Pontiac Solstice of C Stock winner Mike Lillejord, of Redmond, Wash. “Fast Mike,” gave Reindl everything he had, even spinning out in the finish box on his final run, but Reindl sped away the victor.

Reindl nearly pulled a sweep of the Honda Tuner Challenge as well, but was outfoxed by Street Touring® S winner Kevin McCormick, of Lincoln, Calif., in his Kumho/HAP/America’s Tire/Bilstein Honda Civic Si.

Ladies 2 class winner, Christine Berry, of Alta Loma, Calif., who also started her ProSolo season with a Ladies 2 victory at El Toro, marched through the Ladies Challenge to victory in her Mitsubishi Evo.

The Bonus Challenge was sweet redemption for Allan Zacharda, of Sherwood, Ore., who had placed last in the super competitive D Street Prepared class, but piloted his Mini Cooper S to the Challenge win.

B Stock was the tightest contest of the event, the lead exchanging hands with each round. The AXAnalyst/Austin-Soft.com Nissan 350Z of Glenn Austin, from Snoqualmie, Wash., held the lead at the conclusion of Saturday’s runs, but Matthew Braun, of Northville, Mich., in a PowerPlug Mazda RX-8 wrestled away the win in his final run by a mere 0.081-second.

Even more frantic lead changes occurred in the Ladies 1 class, where the top five were separated by 0.731-second. Come Sunday, Kristi Brown, of Des Moines, Wash., emerged the winner in a K&K Racing/Team BH/Jim’s Detail Shop Mini Cooper S.

With the regular season over, ProSolo competitors now begin preparations for The Tire Rack ® SCCA ProSolo National Championship, Sept. 21 – 22, at Heartland Park Topeka. For more ProSolo information, including full results from Packwood, visit the ProSolo pages at www.scca.com.

Attached image: Hawk Super Challenge winner Kinch Reindl.
Credit: Denise Williamson

Posted On 8/28/07

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Pecorari Takes Mosport For Maiden SPEED Touring Car Win

Sun, 26 Aug 2007 10:47:44 PST

Pecorari Takes Mosport For Maiden SPEED Touring Car Win
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

CANADA (Aug. 26, 2007) – Adam Pecorari, of Aston, Pa., led all but the first lap from the pole to take his first-career SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car win at Mosport International Raceway, part of the Mobil 1 Presents the Grand Prix of Mosport. Teammate Chip Herr, of Lititz, Pa., was second, followed by Pierre Kleinubing, of Coconut Creek, Fla.

Driving the No. 19 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Pfaff Audi A4, Pecorari slipped past fellow front row starter Herr in turn 10 on the second lap and never looked back, taking a 0.219-second win under caution, averaging 86.251 mph.

“This is amazing, because there are so many fast drivers in these series,” Pecorari said. “We were quick at Mid-Ohio, but couldn’t back it up in qualifying and the race. This weekend we started off quick as well. The car has been amazing all weekend, all three of our cars were great. I just did my job and there wasn’t too much I could have messed up.

“We had a good start. I know Chip is amazing on the standing starts, so I just tucked behind him. Then I got by him on the next lap and put my head down. I was able to pull a little gap until the yellow came out, which I was a little upset to see that. I managed to pull a gap after, but Chip started turning some really good laps and I wasn’t, but I was able to keep it and get my first win.”

The race was slowed by two cautions, one to retrieve the Mazda 6 of Charles Espenlaub from the Turn Three tire wall halfway through the event. The second coming out on the last lap, after Roberto Santos crashed his Mazda into the turn two tire wall. Neither driver was injured.

“At first I wasn’t happy to see that yellow at the end of the race,” Pecorari said. “I thought we were going to go green, white, checker and I was pissed. Then I saw the yellow in eight and the white flag in nine and I started going nuts. I almost jumped out of the car.”

Defending race winner Herr played wingman in his No. 17 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Pfaff Audi A4 for much of the race, holding off the advances of four-time Mosport winner Kleinubing and his No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura TSX.

“I got a good start. I don’t know what happened to Adam, but we all said before the race that we were going to work together,” Herr said. “With three [teammates] in the top three, the last thing you want to do as teammates is take each other out, so we had a sort of gentlemen’s agreement. I cleared Adam in Turn One, took the lead and he just tucked in behind me.

“My car developed a push, which I didn’t realize in the first couple of laps on the new tires, since we ran rain tires in qualifying. Coming onto the front straight, the front end pushed, I had to get off the throttle and run wide a little. Adam had a great run on me, took the line and I just tucked in behind him. I actually couldn’t catch him for most of the race after that. I fell back a bit and saw Pierre coming. I know this is his track, so I had to watch my mirrors and at the same time try to set up a draft with Adam.”

While Kleinubing was attempting to split the pair of red Audis, he was also trying desperately to hold off teammate Kuno Wittmer and his No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura RSX. Several times throughout the race, Wittmer got a run on his teammate up the back straight and looked to the inside. Holding true to his reputation of being one of the hardest drivers to pass in the series, Kleinubing closed the door each time going into Turn Eight, twice forcing Wittmer over the apex curb.

“Kuno [Wittmer] closed up on me and we thought we’d be able to help each other out and talk on the radio, but he wasn’t closing up on the straightaway to bump me and get closer to these guys,” Kleinubing said. “One time he got really close he tried to pass me and I had to close the door in Turn Eight. Then something happened with Kuno’s car with two or three laps to go and that was the end of that.

“I had a pretty good start. Kuno [Wittmer] gave me a push and I got into fourth right away behind [Ian] Baas. He really didn’t seem to have the same power Chip and Adam had. I was able to close up on him on the straightaway and get side-by-side a couple of times. I think by the third or fourth time I got him in Turn Eight. From there I just put my head down and tried to run with these guys, but I couldn’t really make a charge. Once or twice Chip ran wide, but he was just teasing me—letting me get that close.”

Canadian Wittmer, who paced both practice sessions before qualifying was held in the wet, held on to fourth after starting seventh. Randy Pobst finished fifth in the No. 73 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6 after starting sixth.

Point leader Jeff Altenburg (Mazda 6) finished sixth, followed by Seth Thomas (BMW 325i), who had the fastest lap of the race with a 1:30.876 (97.441 mph), Ian Baas (Audi A4), James Sofronas (BMW 325Ci) and Peter Cunningham (Acura TSX).

Thomas, of Cumming, Ga., was the top Toyo Tires Cup driver in his No. 38 Bimmerworld BMW.

After missing qualifying to change an engine in his No. 64 Autoanalyser Racing Lexus IS 300, Canadian Andrew Wojteczko finished 12th, earning the B&M Shifters Hole Shot Award for advancing five positions on the first lap, the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing 11 positions in the race and the Piloti Rookie of the Race Award for being the highest finishing rookie.

Despite finishing behind teammate and chief Drivers’ Championship protagonist Pobst, Altenburg held onto his point lead, 235 to 221. Kleinubing gained some ground, with 199 points, followed by Herr (196) and Sofronas (190).

Mazda still holds a substantial lead in the Manufacturers’ Championship Presented by RACER Magazine, 55 to 39 over Acura, followed by Audi (35) and BMW (26).

Today’s race will be broadcast on SPEED Channel Saturday, Sept. 1 at 1 p.m. (EDT). The series next travels to Road Atlanta as part of the Petit Le Mans, Oct. 3-6.

Attached: Image of Adam Pecorari leading Chip Herr and the field at Mosport International Raceway. Image by Mark Weber.

BOWMANVILLE, Ontario - Results from Sunday’s 28-lap 68.852-mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round Eight race, part of the Mobil 1 Presents the Grand Prix of Mosport at Mosport International Raceway with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps, distance behind winner and reason out (if any).

1. (1), Adam Pecorari, Aston, Pa., Audi A4, 28.
2. (2), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 28, -0.219.
3. (5), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 28, -0.419.
4. (7), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 28, -1.252.
5. (6), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 28, -3.071.
6. (9), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 28, -3.954.
7. (11), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 28, -4.641.
8. (3), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 28, -5.957.
9. (13), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 28, -7.909.
10. (8), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 28, -8.411.
11. (4), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 28, -9.560.
12. (23), Andrew Wojteczko(R), Caledon, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, 28, -10.071.
13. (18), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 28, -11.246.
14. (21), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 28, -11.921.
15. (12), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 28, -12.535.
16. (19), Justin Pritchard(R), Grandville, Ohio, Toyota Celica GTS, 28, -13.602.
17. (14), Nick Esayian(T), Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 28, -14.404.
18. (16), Jason Martinelli(R), Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 28, -15.526.
19. (17), Sasha Anis(R), Toronto, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, 28, -16.205.
20. (10), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey Mexico, , Mazda 6, 26, Crash.
21. (15), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 10, Crash.
22. (20), Scott Nicol(R), Barrie, Ontario, Honda Civic, 10, Mech.
23. (22), Joey Hand, Sacramento, Calif., BMW 325i, 2, Mech.

Time of race: 47 minutes, 53.775 seconds.
Average speed: 86.251 mph
Margin of victory: 0.219-Second, Under Caution
Lap leaders: Laps 1-1, #17 Chip Herr; laps 2-28, #19 Adam Pecorari
Fastest race lap: #38 Seth Thomas(T), 1:30.876 (97.411 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #19 Adam Pecorari, 1:37.769 (90.544 mph)
Cautions: Two for six laps.
B&M Hole Shot: #64 Andrew Wojteczko
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #64 Andrew Wojteczko
Sunoco Hard Charger: #64 Andrew Wojteczko
Toyo Tires Cup: #38 Seth Thomas

SCCA SPEED Touring Car Drivers’ Championship
After Eight of 10 Races
Ps., Driver, Car, Points (wins)
1, Jeff Altenburg, Mazda 6, 235 (2)
2, Randy Pobst, Mazda 6, 221 (2)
3, Pierre Kleinubing, Acura TSX, 199
4, Chip Herr, Audi A4, 196 (1)
5, James Sofronas(T), BMW 325Ci, 190
6, Kuno Wittmer, Acura RSX, 172
7, Peter Cunningham, Acura TSX, 168 (1)
8, Charles Espenlaub, Mazda 6, 137
9, Michael Galati, Mazda 6, 123
10, Ian Baas, Audi A4, 113

SCCA SPEED Touring Car Manufacturers’ Championship Presented by RACER Magazine
After Eight of 10 Races
Ps., Manufacturer, Points (Wins)
1, Mazda, 55 (4)
2, Acura, 39 (1)
3, Audi, 35 (2)
4, BMW, 26 (1)

Posted On 8/26/07

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Curran Takes Wet-To-Dry SPEED GT Win at Mosport

Sat, 25 Aug 2007 10:43:54 PST

Curran Takes Wet-To-Dry SPEED GT Win at Mosport
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

CANADA (Aug. 25, 2007) – Eric Curran, of East Hampton, Mass., captured his fourth SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship win of 2007 at Mosport International Raceway, part of the Mobil 1 Presents the Grand Prix of Mosport weekend. Lawson Aschenbach, of W. Palm Beach, Fla., and Michael Galati, of Olmsted, Ohio, completed the top three.

After heavy rain soaked the track, the field made its standing start under clearing skies. Potential disaster was averted as neither polesitter Aschenbach’s No. 1 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V nor second-starting Randy Pobst’s No. 22 K-PAX Racing/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 moved as the lights went out. Aschenbach quickly re-fired the Cadillac, but Pobst sat stationary and was grazed by fourth-starting Ron Fellows’ No. 16 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V, forcing both to the pits for repairs.

Galati started third in his No. 23 K-PAX Racing/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 and safely made it past Aschenbach to take the lead. Curran, who started sixth in the No. 30 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette, was quickly to third, pressuring the two leaders as they broke away from the field.

“The race was pretty wild at the start,” Curran said. “[Randy] Pobst stalled right in front of us and everybody was trying to figure out what direction to go and not hit each other. I fell back a little bit at the start and these guys got away.”

Curran was by Aschenbach’s No. 1 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V on lap seven, and made the B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race a lap later as he passed Galati for the lead in Turn Three.

From there, Curran battled high engine temperatures and a drying track that took its toll on everyone’s Toyo Proxes RA-1 rain tires en route to a 6.165-second win, averaging 97.555 mph in a race that went green the whole way.

“I pushed real hard in the beginning,” Curran said. “We went with a half wet, half dry set up. We basically left the car as stiff as we would run it in the dry and put the wet tires on. I didn’t know what to expect, but as things were changing temperature wise, we figured that it was going to dry up and we better have something as close to dry as we could. I think it was a pretty good choice, because the car was great. The Whelen Engineering and Marsh Racing guys have been working so hard at this. It’s very exciting to have a fourth win in a single season.

“We were having some water temperature issues, because we had put some tape on the radiator area. Teddy [Marsh] kept wanting me to come in, but I didn’t want to! I just kept watching the temp and it was rising, but luckily it stabilized. Then, I would get behind someone and the temperature would keep going up and going up, so I really wanted to get by these guys fast and get some clear air. Once I got in some clean air the temperature would drop. The car just kept running strong and Hunter Engineering did a great job putting together an engine that can run in some high temps like that.”

After starting on his first-career pole, Aschenbach drove to his fourth second-place finish of the season, but closed in on what could become his second-straight Drivers’ Championship. He is now just six points behind leader Pobst.

Aschenbach’s team went with a full wet setup, while Curran elected for a dry setup with full-tread wet tires.

“I was full wet,” Aschenbach said of his setup. “There was no discussion. We were going to go wet no matter what. We were contemplating, if it went dry fast, coming in within the first ten laps, putting on drys and going back out. It wasn’t worth it though once we got going, but by the end my tires were shot. There’s was no tread left on them. I was sliding all over the place.

“I pretty much screwed up the start, it’s as simple as that. I stalled the car, but got it re-fired pretty quickly. Luckily, Pobst stalled his car too. Otherwise, I would have had to get around a lot more people. I was really aggressive the first lap and got back up to second. Once it started drying out and I saw Eric coming, I knew we had nothing for him. Then I fought with Michael a little bit and we had a good battle going. I tried to run down Eric, but like I said, we had nothing for him.

“I’m happy with Team Cadillac, they did a great job today. Katech was great with the motor and Pratt & Miller did a good job with the car, it’s just a shame we couldn’t get the win. I’m getting sick of second places, this is my fourth one, so it’s pretty much win or nothing at Road Atlanta.”

Galati, who won the 2006 SCCA SPEED GT in heavy rain by nearly a lap, came home third for his second podium finish in the last three races.

“Last year I won in the rain and this year I won in the rain; I was leading until it started to dry out,” Galati said. “Once the track started drying out, I was a sitting duck. We had rain tires on and once they started getting hot I started sliding all over the place. Eric got by me quite easily, then Lawson and I fought quite a bit and he got by me when we got caught in traffic. Then my car went to hell and I was hanging on by my teeth. In the end, the conditions weren’t tricky, it was just wet tires on a dry track.

“I thought we should go with dry tires, because it looked like it was going to stop raining, but then I thought the track might not dry out that quick. Once the pre-grid was closed, it was too late to change unless I wanted to start from the back.”

Andy Pilgrim (No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V) emerged on top of a race-long battle with Brian Kubinski’s No. 12 Diamond Construction/Blackdog Racing Chevrolet Corvette to take home fourth. Kubinski was the Piloti Rookie of the Race, finishing fifth.

Possibly the most intriguing drive came from Lou Gigliotti, who started 13th in his No. 28 LG Pro Long Tube Headers Chevrolet Corvette on dry tires. Gigliotti fell back to 16th at the start. At the race’s mid-point, however, the dry tires emerged as the fast setup and he began to click off fast lap after fast lap, often two or three seconds faster than the leaders. The caution he needed never came though, and his run toward the front ended in sixth place.

Gigliotti’s teammate Doug Peterson (Chevrolet Corvette), Tony Gaples (Chevrolet Corvette), Jeff Courtney (Dodge Viper) and Michael McCann (Dodge Viper) completed the top 10.

McCann, of N. Canton, Ohio, started from the pit lane after changing tires on the formation lap and earned the Sunoco Hard Charger for advancing 11 positions from his 21st starting position in the No. 82 McCann Plastics/K&N Filters Dodge Viper.

Lenny Diller, of Garden City, N.Y., earned the Toyo Tires Cup in his No. 51 King Cole Audio Visual Dodge Viper, finishing 14th.

Despite his 17th place finish, Pobst held on to the point lead by a slim four points over Pilgrim, 228 to 224. Aschenbach is third, with 222, followed by Galati (207) and a resurgent Curran, with 190. Curran is the only driver with more than two wins on the season, but he also had three-straight DNFs at Miller Motorsports Park, Lowe’s Motor Speedway and Watkins Glen International.

Cadillac maintained its SCCA SPEED GT Manufacturers’ Championship Presented by RACER Magazine lead by three over Chevrolet, 53 to 50. Porsche is third, with 46, followed by Dodge, with 19.

Today’s race will be broadcast on SPEED Channel Saturday, Sept. 1 at 2 p.m. (EDT). The series next travels to Road Atlanta as part of the Petit Le Mans, Oct. 3-6.

Attached: Image of Eric Curran leading Michael Galati (23) and Lawson Aschenbach at Mosport International Raceway. Mark Weber/SCCA Image.

Results from Saturday’s 30-lap, 73.77 mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Eight race, part of the Mobil 1 Presents the Grand Prix of Mosport at Mosport International Raceway with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps, distance behind winner and reason out (if any).

1. (6), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 30.
2. (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 30, -6.164.
3. (3), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 30, -17.846.
4. (5), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 30, -21.719.
5. (8), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 30, -22.219.
6. (13), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 30, -36.665.
7. (7), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 30, -53.255.
8. (15), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 30, -1:05.598.
9. (11), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 29, -1 lap.
10. (21), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 29, -1 lap.
11. (19), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 29, -1 lap.
12. (12), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 29, -1 lap.
13. (18), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 29, -1 lap.
14. (16), Lenny Diller(T), Garden City, N.Y., Dodge Viper, 29, -1 lap.
15. (14), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 29, -1 lap.
16. (22), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 28, -2 laps.
17. (2), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 28, -2 laps.
18. (23), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 28, -2 laps.
19. (20), Nick Majors(R), Oakville, Ontario, Dodge Viper, 27, -3 laps.
20. (9), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 19, Elect.
21. (4), Ron Fellows, Mississauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 19, -11 laps.
22. (10), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Chevrolet Corvette, 17, Mech.
23. (17), John Bourassa(T), Jupiter Island, Fla., Porsche 911 Turbo, 3, Mech.

Time of race: 45 minutes, 22.272 seconds.
Average speed: 97.555 mph
Margin of victory: 6.164 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-7, #23 Michael Galati; laps 8-30, #30 Eric Curran
Fastest race lap: #28 Lou Gigliotti, 1:24.846 (104.335 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #1 Lawson Aschenbach, 1:39.654 (88.831 mph)
B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race: #30 Eric Curran pass for the lead
Sunoco Hard Charger: #82 Michael McCann
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #12 Brian Kubinski
Toyo Tires Cup: #51 Lenny Diller

SCCA SPEED GT Drivers’ Championship Standings
After Eight of 10 Rounds
Pos., Driver, Car, Points (wins)
1, Randy Pobst, Porsche 911 GT-3, 228 (2)
2, Andy Pilgrim, Cadillac CTS-V, 224 (1)
3, Lawson Aschenbach, Cadillac CTS-V, 222
4, Michael Galati, Porsche 911 GT-3, 207
5, Eric Curran, Chevrolet Corvette, 190 (4)
6, Lou Gigliotti, Chevrolet Corvette, 162
7, Tommy Archer, Dodge Viper, 143 (1)
8, Doug Peterson, Chevrolet Corvette, 137
9, Jeff Courtney, Dodge Viper, 123
10, Rob Foster(T), Chevrolet Corvette, 119

SCCA SPEED GT Manufacturers’ Championship Presented by Racer Magazine
After Eight of 10 Rounds
1, Cadillac, 53 (1)
2, Chevrolet, 50 (4)
3, Porsche, 46 (2)
4, Dodge, 19 (1)

Posted On 8/25/07

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Aschenbach Gets First SPEED GT Pole at Damp Mosport

Sat, 25 Aug 2007 10:40:07 PST

Aschenbach Gets First SPEED GT Pole at Damp Mosport
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

CANADA (Aug. 25, 2007) – Lawson Aschenbach, of W. Palm Beach, Fla., captured his first career pole at a soggy Mosport International Raceway for Round Eight of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship, part of Mobil 1 Presents the Grand Prix of Mosport. Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., will start second.

Just before the SCCA SPEED GT cars made their way to the grid for qualifying, the 10-turn, 2.459-mile (3.95 km) course was visited by a brief rain shower. Carefully pushing his car to the limits on the slick track, Aschenbach put his No. 1 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V on pole with a time of 1:39.654 (88.831 mph). The defending SCCA SPEED GT Champion’s first pole came on his final lap as the course continued to dry throughout the session.

“I’m pretty happy with it,” Aschenbach said. “It’s great to get my first pole in conditions like this. We knew whether it was rain or shine that we had a shot at pole, but to our advantage it wasn’t raining. The track was drying up as the session went on. I knew I had to stay out, because every lap was going to get better and better. I think my last lap was my best lap.

“We like this track whether it’s rain or dry. Whatever comes at us for the race, we’ll be happy with either one. The Corvettes are fast down the straights here, so if it’s dry, they’ll be the cars to beat. Right now, we’re happy with starting first.”

Pobst completes the front row in his No. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT-3. The current SCCA SPEED GT point leader entered a time of 1:39.950 (88.568 mph) on the damp course. His teammate Michael Galati, of Olmstead, Ohio, will start third in his No. 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT-3. The defending Mosport race winner posted a fast time of 1:40.039 (88.489 mph).

The ‘Mayor of Mosport,’ Ron Fellows, of Mississaugua, Ont., will start the race fourth on the grid in his No. 16 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V. Fellows led qualifying early, but couldn’t match the pace of his teammate on the drying track, ending the session with a 1:41.661 (87.077 mph). The third Cadillac of Andy Pilgrim, from Boca Raton, Fla., qualified fifth with a time of 1:41.921 (86.855 mph).

Eric Curran (Chevrolet Corvette), Doug Peterson (Chevrolet Corvette), Brian Kubinski (Chevrolet Corvette), James Sofronas (Porsche 911 GT-3) and Rob Foster (Chevrolet Corvette) complete the top ten.

Round Eight of the SCCA SPEED GT Championship will launch from a standing start this evening at 6:35 p.m. (EDT). The race will be broadcast on SPEED, Saturday, Sept. 1 at 2:00 p.m. (EDT). Live timing and lap notes can be found at www.world-challenge.com.

Starting lineup for Saturday's Round Eight SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT race, part of the Mobil 1 Presents the Grand Prix of Mosport at Mosport, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:39.654, 88.831.
2, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:39.950, 88.568.
3, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:40.039, 88.489.
4, (16), Ron Fellows, Mississauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 1:41.661, 87.077.
5, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:41.921, 86.855.
6, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:43.057, 85.898.
7, (87), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:44.022, 85.101.
8, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:44.106, 85.032.
9, (14), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:45.006, 84.303.
10, (17), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:46.043, 83.479.
11, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 1:46.201, 83.355.
12, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 1:46.584, 83.055.
13, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 1:46.762, 82.917.
14, (3), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 1:47.020, 82.717.
15, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:48.508, 81.583.
16, (51), Lenny Diller(T), Garden City, N.Y., Dodge Viper, 1:48.853, 81.324.
17, (76), John Bourassa(T), Jupiter Island, Fla., Porsche 911 Turbo, 1:49.001, 81.214.
18, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 1:49.066, 81.165.
19, (2), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 1:49.417, 80.905.
20, (13), Nick Majors(R), Oakville, Ontario, Dodge Viper, 1:49.733, 80.672.
21, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 1:51.171, 79.628.
22, (31), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:52.727, 78.529.
23, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 1:57.931, 75.064.

Attached image: The Cadillac CTS-V of Lawson Aschenbach navigates the final corner at Mosport.
Credit: Mark Weber

Posted On 8/25/07

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Pecorari Leads STaSIS Audi One-Two-Three at Mosport for Maiden SPEED TC Pole

Sat, 25 Aug 2007 10:36:37 PST

Pecorari Leads STaSIS Audi One-Two-Three at Mosport for Maiden SPEED TC Pole
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

CANADA (Aug. 25, 2007) – Adam Pecorari, of Aston, Pa., claimed his first SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car pole today, leading a STaSIS Audi one-two-three in damp conditions at Mosport International Raceway, part of the Mobil 1 Presents the Grand Prix of Mosport. Defending race winner Chip Herr, of Lititz, Pa., will start second.

Driving the No. 19 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Pfaff Audi A4, Pecorari changed from wet to dry tires after a red flag stopped the session early to remove a car from the turn five gravel. After the session resumed, he clicked off a number of fast laps, finally taking the pole with a time of 1:37.769 (90.544 mph) around the 2.459-mile (3.957-km), 10-turn circuit.

“We had a very good car on Thursday and Friday in the dry, so I knew wet or dry we’d be fairly quick,” the 21-year old polesitter said. “Obviously with the all-wheel drive we have an advantage in the wet. I wasn’t at the Grand Prix of Toronto, so this is my first time qualifying in the wet. Luckily, Thursday morning the track was very similar to this and we went out on slicks, so I kind of knew how the car would handle.

“We were quickest on that one lap before the red flag came out. We came in and I said ‘put the dry tires on, hook the [sway] bar back up and we’ll go back out.’ So I went back out on the dry tires and it took me a little time, but then I went four or five seconds faster. The car is great and the team’s been working really hard.

“I’ve got to thank Pfaff, Paul Lambert and Todd Cope at STaSIS Engineering for sure. My mechanic and crew are doing an amazing job. I’ve never missed a session or a lap, because these guys are working so hard. They’re the first ones to get here and the last ones to leave. I give them all the credit in the world.”

Not surprisingly, Pecorari’s teammates utilized the all-wheel-drive in their identical Audis to take the next two spots on the grid. Herr, who won in the rain at Mosport in 2006, will start second after turning a lap of 1:38.605 (89.776 mph) in his No. 17 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Pfaff entry. Ian Baas, of Noblesville, Ind., will start third in the No. 18 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Pfaff Audi with a time of 1:39.615 (88.866 mph).

“In the rain, if it’s not Audi one, two, three, we didn’t do our jobs,” Pecorari added.

Michael Galati, of Olmsted, Ohio, was is the first front-wheel drive car on the grid, qualifying fourth with a time of 1:39.732 (88.761 mph) in his No. 95 Mazda North America/Tindol Mazda 6. Four-time Mosport winner Pierre Kleinubing will start fifth in his No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura TSX after turning a quick time of 1:40.089 (88.445 mph).

Randy Pobst (Mazda 6), Kuno Wittmer (Acura RSX), Peter Cunningham (Acura TSX), point leader Jeff Altenburg (Mazda 6) and Roberto Santos (Mazda 6) completed the top 10.

Sunday’s race will make its standing start at 11:15 a.m. (EDT). Live timing and scoring as well as lap notes for the race can be seen at the SCCA Pit Board at www.world-challenge.com. The race will be broadcast on SPEED Saturday, Sept. 1 at 1 p.m. (EDT).

Attached: Image of Adam Pecorari during qualifying Saturday at Mosport International Raceway. Image by Mark Weber/SCCA.

Starting lineup for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round Eight race, part of the Mobil 1 Presents the Grand Prix of Mosport at Mosport International Raceway, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (19), Adam Pecorari, Aston, Pa., Audi A4, 1:37.769, 90.544.
2, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 1:38.605, 89.776.
3, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 1:39.615, 88.866.
4, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 1:39.732, 88.761.
5, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 1:40.089, 88.445.
6, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 1:40.147, 88.394.
7, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 1:40.966, 87.677.
8, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 1:41.537, 87.184.
9, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 1:41.616, 87.116.
10, (74), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey Mexico, , Mazda 6, 1:42.126, 86.681.
11, (38), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 1:42.265, 86.563.
12, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 1:42.424, 86.429.
13, (29), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 1:43.244, 85.742.
14, (34), Nick Esayian(T), Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 1:43.676, 85.385.
15, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 1:43.773, 85.305.
16, (8), Jason Martinelli(R), Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 1:43.822, 85.265.
17, (65), Sasha Anis(R), Toronto, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, 1:44.104, 85.034.
18, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 1:45.373, 84.010.
19, (61), Justin Pritchard(R), Grandville, Ohio, Toyota Celica GTS, 1:45.456, 83.944.
20, (41), Scott Nicol(R), Barrie, Ontario, Honda Accord, 1:45.573, 83.851.
21, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 1:46.345, 83.242.
22, (37), Joey Hand, Sacramento, Calif., BMW 325i, 10:07.478, 14.572.
23, (64), Andrew Wojteczko(R), Caledon, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, no time.

Posted On 8/25/07

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Curran Edges Aschenbach For Fast SPEED GT Practice Time at Mosport

Fri, 24 Aug 2007 10:37:00 PST

Curran Edges Aschenbach For Fast SPEED GT Practice Time at Mosport
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

CANADA (Aug. 24, 2007) – After leading the morning practice session for Sunday’s SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Eight race, part of the Mobil 1 Presents Grand Prix of Mosport, Eric Curran, of East Hampton, Mass., bettered his time in the afternoon, edging Lawson Aschenbach, of W. Palm Beach, Fla., for quick time of the day at Mosport International Raceway.

Coming off his third win of the season last month at Mid-Ohio, Curran wheeled the No. 30 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette around the 2.459-mile (3.957-km) circuit in a time of 1:22.972 (106.691 mph). The time was just 0.003-second better than Aschenbach’s in the No. 1 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V.

Lou Gigliotti, of Dallas, Texas, was third fastest in the afternoon session and on the day with a lap of 1:23.087 (106.543 mph) in his No. 28 LG Pro Long Tube Headers Chevrolet Corvette.

Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., was fourth quick on the day in his No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V with a lap of 1:23.501 (106.015 mph) in the earlier session. Michael Galati was fifth on the day in his No. 23 K-PAX Racing/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 with a time of 1:23.512 (106.001 mph), also done in the early session.

Ron Fellows (Cadillac CTS-V), point leader Randy Pobst (Porsche 911 GT3), Brian Kubinski (Chevrolet Corvette), Michael McCann (Dodge Viper) and James Sofronas (Porsche 911 GT3) completed the top 10 on the day.

Qualifying for Saturday evening’s race is scheduled for 11:20 a.m. (EDT), with the standing start scheduled for 6:35 p.m. To follow qualifying and the race via live timing and scoring and notes via the SCCA Pit Board, visit www.world-challenge.com.

Combined practice results for Saturday’s SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Round Eight race, part of the Mobil 1 Presents Grand Prix of Mosport weekend at Mosport International Raceway, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:22.972, 106.691.
2, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:22.975, 106.687.
3, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 1:23.087, 106.543.
4, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:23.501, 106.015.
5, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:23.512, 106.001.
6, (16), Ron Fellows, Mississauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 1:23.692, 105.773.
7, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:24.005, 105.379.
8, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:24.569, 104.676.
9, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 1:24.577, 104.666.
10, (14), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:24.952, 104.204.
11, (87), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:24.995, 104.152.
12, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:25.165, 103.944.
13, (17), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:25.571, 103.451.
14, (2), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 1:25.585, 103.434.
15, (3), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 1:25.640, 103.367.
16, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 1:25.715, 103.277.
17, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 1:26.216, 102.677.
18, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 1:26.567, 102.260.
19, (51), Lenny Diller(T), Garden City, N.Y., Dodge Viper, 1:27.228, 101.485.
20, (31), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:27.858, 100.758.
21, (76), John Bourassa(T), Jupiter Island, Fla., Porsche 911 Turbo, 1:27.968, 100.632.
22, (13), Nick Majors(R), Oakville, Ontario, Dodge Viper, 1:28.493, 100.035.
23, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 1:28.928, 99.545.

Posted On 8/24/07

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Wittmer Fastest SPEED Touring Car in Mosport Practice

Fri, 24 Aug 2007 10:36:48 PST

Wittmer Fastest SPEED Touring Car in Mosport Practice
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

CANADA (Aug. 24, 2007) – Kuno Wittmer, of Montreal, Quebec, topped both the morning and evening practice sessions at Mosport International Raceway, for Round Eight of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship, part of Mobil 1 Presents the Grand Prix of Mosport. Adam Pecorari, of Aston, Penn., and Michael Galati, of Olmstead, Ohio, completed the top three.

Although Wittmer was unable to improve on his morning session time of 1:30.118 (98.231 mph) in his No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura RSX, the lap remained the fastest of the day around the 10-turn, 2.459-mile (3.957 km) road course.

In both the morning and evening practice sessions, Pecorari waited until the closing minutes to turn his fastest laps. His second session time of 1:30.516 (97.799 mph) was an improvement of more than half a second over his morning session time and the driver of the No. 19 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Pfaff Audi A4 remained second on the time sheets.

Pecorari’s fast time in the second session came just before the session was red flagged and ended early for the No. 41 Velocity Motorsports Honda Accord of Scott Nicol and the No. 37 BimmerWorld BMW 325i of Joey Hand, who both got into the tires at Turn Two.

Third fastest in both sessions, Galati’s evening session was slightly faster. The No. 95 Mazda North America/Tindol Mazda 6 driver turned fast lap of 1:30.795 (97.498 mph).

Ian Baas, of Noblesville, Ind., improved exponentially from the morning session and jumped from 20th to fourth on the time sheets. Baas hustled the No. 18 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Pfaff Audi A4 to a time of 1:31.022 (97.255 mph). His teammate, Chip Herr, of Lititz, Penn., finished the day fifth in his No. 17 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Pfaff Audi A4 with a time of 1:31.110 (97.161 mph), putting all the STaSIS Audis in the top five.

Pierre Kleinubing (Acura TSX), Seth Thomas (BMW 325i), Randy Pobst (Mazda 6), Peter Cunningham (Acura TSX) and Brandon Davis (Acura TSX) completed the top ten.

Qualifying for Round Seven of the SCCA SPEED Touring Car Championship is scheduled for 11:45 a.m. (EDT) on Saturday. The race will go green on Sunday at 11:15 a.m. (EDT). Living timing and lap notes will be available on www.world-challenge.com.

Combined practice results for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car race, part of the Mobil 1 Presents the Grand Prix of Mosport at Mosport International Raceway, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 1:30.118, 98.231.
2, (19), Adam Pecorari, Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, 1:30.516, 97.799.
3, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 1:30.795, 97.498.
4, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 1:31.022, 97.255.
5, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 1:31.110, 97.161.
6, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 1:31.210, 97.055.
7, (38), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 1:31.212, 97.053.
8, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 1:31.292, 96.968.
9, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 1:31.303, 96.956.
10, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 1:31.313, 96.945.
11, (8), Jason Martinelli(R), Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 1:31.353, 96.903.
12, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 1:31.388, 96.866.
13, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 1:31.483, 96.765.
14, (29), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 1:31.573, 96.670.
15, (34), Nick Esayian(T), Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 1:31.587, 96.655.
16, (37), Joey Hand, Sacramento, Calif., BMW 325i, 1:31.661, 96.577.
17, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 1:31.719, 96.516.
18, (74), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey Mexico, , Mazda 6, 1:31.736, 96.498.
19, (41), Scott Nicol(R), Barrie, Ontario, Honda Accord, 1:31.833, 96.396.
20, (65), Sasha Anis(R), Toronto, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, 1:32.785, 95.407.
21, (61), Justin Pritchard(R), Grandville, Ohio, Toyota Celica GTS, 1:33.625, 94.551.
22, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 1:34.618, 93.559.
23, (64), Andrew Wojteczko(R), Caledon, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, no time.

Attached image: The No. 44 Acura RSX of Kuno Wittmer
Credit: Mark Weber

Posted On 8/24/07

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Volkswagen Named Official Pace Car of SCCA and SCCA Pro Racing

Fri, 24 Aug 2007 01:58:43 PST

Volkswagen Named Official Pace Car of SCCA and SCCA Pro Racing
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. (Aug. 24, 2007) – Volkswagen and Sports Car Club of America announced today an official partnership naming Volkswagen the Official Pace Car of SCCA and SCCA Pro Racing. As part of its official sponsorship, Volkswagen will provide pace vehicles for the SCCA SPEED World Challenge Championships and the SCCA National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T as well as course vehicles for The Tire Rack® SCCA Solo National Championships.

“Volkswagen was a driving force in SCCA history for many years,” said Clark Campbell, motorsport manager, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “We’re excited to be back on the track with our SCCA partnership, increasing interest in the SCCA competition and bringing our new and exciting products to the track.”

“We’re excited to partner with Volkswagen, both through its contingency program and now as the Official Pace Car,” said Eric Prill, SCCA vice president, marketing and communications. “Volkswagen has a rich history of motorsports, particularly grassroots racing and we’re proud to help carry on that tradition.”

Two Volkswagen GLI Fahrenheits will serve as the official pace cars and have received body kit upgrades, full graphics package and a full light package. The vehicles will be present at all World Challenge races remaining in 2007 and through 2009. The same vehicles will also pace all 25 races at the National Championship Runoffs at Heartland Park Topeka Oct. 12-14.

In addition to the pace vehicles, Volkswagen will provide 10 course vehicles for the Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Championships, held at Heartland Park Topeka Sept. 25-28.

Earlier in the 2007 season, Volkswagen announced a contingency award program with a payout amount of up to $300,000 available to Volkswagen participants in SCCA. The automaker has already awarded more than $48,000 in contingency prize money this season. The contingency program is designed to monetarily reward Volkswagen drivers when they compete and finish on the podium at SCCA sanctioned events.

Founded in 1944, Sports Car Club of America, Inc. is a 55,000 member motorsports organization that, along with subsidiary SCCA Pro Racing, incorporates all facets of autocross, rally and road racing at both club and professional levels. It annually sanctions over 2,000 events through its 112 regions and professional subsidiary. Landmark events and series for the Club include the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Championships; the Club Racing National Championship Runoffs® presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka; and The Tire Rack® SCCA Solo National Championships and ProSolo Championship at Topeka, Kan. For more information, please visit www.scca.com.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, Eos, and Touareg through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at vw.com.

Attached image: Volkswagen GLI Fahrenheit pace car.
Credit: Volkswagen

Posted On 8/24/07

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Canadian Wittmer Fastest in SPEED Touring Car Practice at Mosport

Fri, 24 Aug 2007 12:01:34 PST

Canadian Wittmer Fastest in SPEED Touring Car Practice at Mosport
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

CANADA (Aug. 24, 2007) – Québécois Kuno Wittmer led the first practice session for Round Eight of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship, part of the Mobil 1 Presents the Grand Prix of Mosport. Adam Pecorarri, of Aspon, Penn., and Michael Galati, of Olmsted, Ohio, completed the top three.

Putting his extensive track knowledge to use, Wittmer set a fast time of 1:30.118 (98.231 mph) around the 10-turn, 2.459-mile (3.957 km) road course on his first flying lap. Behind the wheel of the No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura RSX, Wittmer has won here before in other series and is happy to be back at what he considers his home track.

“It’s a relief to come to a circuit where I’ve won in the past,” Wittmer said. “I’ve also won championships and pole positions here. It’s kind of my home track, although it’s four or five hours away from Montreal. I couldn’t ask for a better track in this area. I feel totally at home here.

“The RealTime guys gave me a really good car so far. Overall the balance and handling of the car is suited very well for Mosport right now. It’s exactly the setup I want on the car and I’ve got the knowledge here, so it all helps.”

Employing the opposite strategy and setting a fast lap of 1:31.125 (97.145 mph) on his final lap of the session, Pecorari was second in morning practice in the No. 19 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Pfaff Audi A4.

Last year’s SCCA SPEED GT winner at Mosport, Galati, was third fastest in the No. 95 Mazda North America/Tindol Motorsports Mazda 6. Also third on the timesheets in SCCA SPEED GT practice, Galati’s fastest SCCA SPEED Touring Car time was a 1:31.143 (97.126 mph).

Currently fourth in the Drivers’ Championship, Pierre Kleinubing, of Coconut Creek, Fla., was fourth fastest in his No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura TSX with a time of 1:31.210 (97.055 mph). Seth Thomas, of Cumming, Ga., completed the top five in his No. 38 BimmerWorld BMW 325i, with a time of 1:31.212 (97.053 mph).

Chip Herr (Audi A4), Randy Pobst (Mazda 6), Charles Espenlaub (Mazda 6), Peter Cunningham (Acura TSX) and Jason Martinelli (BMW 325Ci) completed the top ten.

The second round of practice for the SCCA SPEED Touring Cars at Mosport International Raceway is scheduled for 6:15 p.m. (EDT). Living timing and lap notes will be available on www.world-challenge.com.

Results from the first practice session for Sunday's Round Eight SCCA Pro Racing SPEED Touring Championship race part, of the Mobil 1 Presents the Grand Prix of Mosport at Mosport International Raceway, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.
1, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 1:30.118, 98.231.
2, (19), Adam Pecorari, Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, 1:31.125, 97.145.
3, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 1:31.143, 97.126.
4, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 1:31.210, 97.055.
5, (38), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 1:31.212, 97.053.
6, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 1:31.276, 96.985.
7, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 1:31.292, 96.968.
8, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 1:31.388, 96.866.
9, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 1:31.432, 96.819.
10, (8), Jason Martinelli(R), Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 1:31.484, 96.764.
11, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 1:31.497, 96.750.
12, (29), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 1:31.573, 96.670.
13, (34), Nick Esayian(T), Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 1:31.587, 96.655.
14, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 1:31.621, 96.619.
15, (37), Joey Hand, Sacramento, Calif., BMW 325i, 1:31.661, 96.577.
16, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 1:31.719, 96.516.
17, (74), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey Mexico, , Mazda 6, 1:31.736, 96.498.
18, (41), Scott Nicol, Barrie, Ontario, Honda Civic, 1:32.362, 95.844.
19, (65), Sasha Anis(R), Toronto, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, 1:32.785, 95.407.
20, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 1:33.578, 94.599.
21, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 1:34.800, 93.379.
22, (61), Justin Pritchard(R), Grandville, Ohio, Toyota Celica GTS, 1:34.966, 93.216.
23, (64), Andrew Wojteczko(R), Caledon, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, no time.

Attached image: Kuno Wittmer paced SCCA SPEED Touring Car Practice at Mosport.
Credit: Mark Weber

Posted On 8/24/07

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Curran Fastest In Opening Mosport SPEED GT Practice

Fri, 24 Aug 2007 11:58:12 PST

Curran Fastest In Opening Mosport SPEED GT Practice
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

CANADA (Aug. 24, 2007) – Coming off his third win of the season, Eric Curran, of East Hampton, Mass., was fastest in Friday’s opening practice for this weekend’s Round Eight SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship race, part of the Mobil 1 Presents the Grand Prix of Mosport weekend. Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., and defending race winner Michael Galati, of Olmsted, Ohio, completed the top three.

Driving the No. 30 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette, Curran turned a fastest lap of 1:23.000 (106.655 mph) around the 2.459-mile (3.957 km), 10-turn circuit. Curran led the session from the completion of his first lap, and lowered the fast time 14 minutes into the 20-minute session.

“The car feels great,” Curran said. “In typical fashion, the Whelen Motorsports crew is doing a heck of a job trying to keep this car up front. It’s gotten a little bit harder, because now the car has 80 pounds of R.E.W.A.R.D.S. weight. We pushed real hard in the session to get a handle on what the car is going to do for race day. We’re a little bit worried that rain is going to be a problem today, so we wanted to make sure we got a good dry session in this morning and make sure we’re ready for qualifying tomorrow. I think we might have pushed a little harder than some of the other teams did, but the Whelen Corvette is feeling better than ever.”

Pilgrim was second fastest in his No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V with a fast time of 1:23.501 (106.015 mph), 0.011-second faster than the No. 23 K-PAX Racing/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 of Galati. Galati won a wet race at Mosport in 2006, lapping all but second place in his Volvo S60 R.

Pilgrim’s Team Cadillac stable mates, Lawson Aschenbach (No. 1 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose) and Ron Fellows (No. 16 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose) completed the top five with best times of 1:23.597 (105.893 mph) and 1:23.692 (105.773 mph), respectively.

Lou Gigliotti (Chevrolet Corvette), Randy Pobst (Porsche 911 GT3), Michael McCann (Dodge Viper), Brian Kubinski (Chevrolet Corvette) and James Sofronas (Porsche 911 GT3) completed the top ten.

The second practice session for Saturday evening’s race is scheduled for 5:50 p.m. (EDT). To follow the session via live timing and scoring and notes via the SCCA Pit Board, visit www.world-challenge.com.

Results from the first practice session for Sunday's Round Seven SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT race, part of the Mobil 1 Presents the Grand Prix of Mosport at Mosport International Raceway, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:23.000, 106.655.
2, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:23.501, 106.015.
3, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:23.512, 106.001.
4, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:23.597, 105.893.
5, (16), Ron Fellows, Mississauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 1:23.692, 105.773.
6, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 1:23.850, 105.574.
7, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:24.115, 105.241.
8, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 1:24.577, 104.666.
9, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:24.813, 104.375.
10, (14), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:24.952, 104.204.
11, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:25.165, 103.944.
12, (87), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:25.273, 103.812.
13, (2), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 1:25.585, 103.434.
14, (3), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 1:25.640, 103.367.
15, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 1:25.935, 103.012.
16, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 1:26.216, 102.677.
17, (17), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:26.439, 102.412.
18, (51), Lenny Diller(T), Garden City, N.Y., Dodge Viper, 1:27.228, 101.485.
19, (76), John Bourassa(T), Jupiter Island, Fla., Porsche 911 Turbo, 1:27.968, 100.632.
20, (31), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:28.054, 100.533.
21, (13), Nick Majors(R), Oakville, Ontario, Dodge Viper, 1:28.516, 100.009.
22, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 1:28.880, 99.599.
23, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 1:28.928, 99.545.

Posted On 8/24/07

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KVRG National Tries Out New Heartland Park Course Configuration

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 12:31:43 PST

KVRG National Tries Out New Heartland Park Course Configuration
By Eric Prill, SCCA

TOPEKA, Kan. (Aug. 21, 2007) – SCCA National drivers got the first taste of the new Runoffs Configuration at Heartland Park Topeka last weekend, with over 200 drivers taking part in the Kaw Valley Race Group “Last Chance” National. It was the final SCCA-sanctioned event prior to the National Championship Runoffs® Presented by AT&T in October.

Following the changes to Turns One, Two, Eight and Nine, lap times were reduced by anywhere from five to nine seconds from last year’s records, with average speeds climbing as much as 8 mph.

“This is a kick ass racetrack now,” GT-2 winner and Spec Miata track record setter Tony Rivera, of Houston, Texas, said. “There were people concerned about removing hard brake zones for passing, but the track races just fine.

“You can still pass going into Turn One, although side-by-side is not the fastest way through. Turns One and Two are great setup corners now to get a run going into Turn Three. Eight and Nine are now also great setup corners, although it’s pretty tough to pass going into Turn Eight.”

With regard to the high speeds and barrier placement in the new sections, Rivera felt that many of the revered racetracks in North America have similar characteristics.

“[Turn Two] is not any different than The Kink at Road America as far as the potential to have a problem. There are some that don’t like it right now and it’s because the new turns at Heartland don’t have the respect that a corner like The Kink does. It’s too new. I respected it for the potential of what can happen just like The Kink at Road America, and I didn’t have a problem.

“Turns Eight and Nine have so much runoff room, that it’s not hard to push to go fast. I tested the limits and went four-off in both the Miata and the Panoz there and didn’t have an issue.”

The weekend provided some valuable information for Heartland Park staff, and the track plans to have its curbing additions in place this week.

Regarded as the Pinnacle of American Motorsports, the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T features a full week of action, capped by three days of racing Oct. 12-14 at Heartland Park Topeka. Now in its 44th year, nearly 700 drivers annually travel to the Runoffs to race against the best and fight for the honor of being crowned National Champion.

For more information about SCCA, please visit www.scca.com.

For more information about Heartland Park Topeka, please visit www.hpt.com.

For results from this weekend’s race, click here: http://www.mylaps.com/results/showevent.jsp?id=241243.

Attached: Image of Tony Coello, who set the Formula Ford track record on Sunday at Heartland Park in his Van Diemen. Image by John Steflik/SCCA.

Posted On 8/22/07

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Home Field Advantage: Washington SCCA Solo Drivers Score Big in Packwood Tour

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 12:25:50 PST

Home Field Advantage: Washington SCCA Solo Drivers Score Big in Packwood Tour
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

PACKWOOD, Wash. (Aug. 22, 2007) – More than 250 Soloists made the annual pilgrimage to Hampton Mills in Packwood, Wash., for the final event on the 2007 Tire Rack® SCCA Solo National Tour calendar. Despite a rainy Sunday, the event was beaming with hometown pride as 22 of 46 class wins went to Washington state drivers.

That success included the largest class of the weekend, Super Stock, which went to Kevin Dietz, of Federal Way, Wash., in his TeamHollywood Chevrolet Corvette Z06. It was the second SS win of the year for Dietz who also claimed victory in April at the Atwater National Tour. Dietz won by a sizeable margin of 1.362 seconds over the Medallion Healthy Homes Dodge Viper of Stacey Molleker, from Granite Falls, Wash., whose wife, Laura, captured the Super Stock Ladies win in the same car.

Several classes were swept by Washington teams, including C Stock, where Mike Lillejord and Kyle Freiheit, both of Redmond, Wash., shared a Pontiac Solistice and finished one-two, respectively. Seattle drivers Drew Hanft and Enrique Garcia did the same thing in Street Touring® S2, sharing a Mazda Miata. It was a similar story in Street Touring Extreme, where Alec Osenbach, of Langley, Wash., and Karl Coleman, of Renton, Wash., took the top two spots in their Tight-N-Tidy Racing Subaru Impreza WRX. Yet another Washington pair were the victors in X Prepared. Greg Fordahl, of Bremerton, Wash., and Leed Gulick, of Bellevue, Wash., shared the Fordahl Motorsports Porsch 914 and found each other to be the biggest competition, with Fordahl finishing 0.229-second ahead of Gulick.

Even where Washington pilots weren’t winning, they were coming awful close. Like in E Stock, where Jerry Jenkins, of Vancouver, Wash., missed out on the win in his America’s Tire Mazda Miata, by just 0.014-second to the Toyota MR2 of Bryan Heitkotter, of Fresno, Calif.

Locals had some close calls of their own. Driving a ChaseRace/K&K Racing MINI Cooper S, Aaron Pailthorp, of Seattle, Wash., beat the BMW 318is of Arthur Chan, of Vancouver, B.C., by a slim 0.052-second, for the G Stock win. In H Stock, Scott Miller, of Kent, Wash., and Des Toups, of Seattle, Wash., had a spirited battle, with Miller’s Scion tC getting the better of Toups’ Mazda 3 by 0.050-second.

The ladies were also cutting it close. Kim Littke, of Seattle, Wash., took the Street Touring S2 Ladies victory in a Mazda Miata by a mere 0.025-second over the Mazda Miata of Jackie McInnes, from Shoreline, Wash. In C Street Prepared Ladies, Tami Daniels, of Gladstone, Ore., piloted her Kumho/Fordahl Motorsports Mazda MX-5 to a 0.058-second victory over the Mazda Miata of Kathy Wolfskill, from Nederland, Colo.

One man who had no trouble keeping the Washington crowd at bay was Navid Kahangi. Driving a PDXTuning/Nicro Subaru WRX STi, Kahangi, of Portland, Ore., dominated Street Modified with a 6.114-second win over the Horsepower Connection Honda Civic of Tony Lemon, from Olympia, Wash.

Now that the 2007 Solo National Tour has concluded, competitors are preparing for the 2007 Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Championships at Heartland Park Topeka, September 25 – 28.

Hampton Mills still has one more weekend of Solo competition however, as the 2007 Tire Rack SCCA ProSolo regular season comes to a close there this weekend, August 25-26.

For full results from the Packwood National Tour and more information about the Solo National Championships, visit the Solo pages at www.scca.com

Attached image: Super Stock winner Kevin Dietz in his 2003 Chevrolet Corvette Z06
Credit: Bryan Heitkotter

Posted On 8/22/07

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Smokey Finish Brings In Another Top-10 For BSI Racing in Koni Challenge

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 12:18:52 PST

Smokey Finish Brings In Another Top-10 For BSI Racing in Koni Challenge
By Lauren Liebowitz

August 22 2007 -- BSI Racing finished in respectable 9th and 17th places at the KONI Challenge race in Trois-Rivieres, Quebec. Justin Hall and Magnus Karlsson’s top-10 finish (9th) keeps the JustRacing.com/MOMO/Joe Gibbs No. 58 car in 9th place for team points. The No. 56 Mazda MX-5’s finish (17th) keeps Christian Miller in the top-10 in driver points. Over all the weekend was a success.

After a few laps around the street circuit during the practice sessions the team realized that unless the drivers handled the cars very carefully, the Mazda MX-5s’ brakes would overheat. “Our strategy was to keep the brakes cool and race for a clean two hours. Short street circuits like Trois-Rivieres are notorious for chewing up race cars,” said team owner Stu Brumer. The strategy worked and neither Mazda had issues with their brakes overheating. In comparison a number of ST cars had to change brakes on pit lane during the race.

Still, the team did suffer during the two hour race. Magnus Karlsson started the race in the No. 58 car. He was turning quick laps and had a good handle on the race car. However after a handful of laps he realized the clutch was slipping. Crew chief Rob Greenwood called the car in and prepared a special soda pop concoction to spray on the clutch. “The sugar in the soda kept the clutch sticking,” said Greenwood. After the sugar spray-down, the car was good to go and co-driver Justin Hall started his first stint in the Mazda. Even though the team and car lost laps during the quick clutch fix, after an hour into the race, it looked as if Hall was going to finish in the top-10. With 45 minutes left in the race, teams’ brakes were smoking. All remaining cars on track were slipping, sliding and smoking, Hall in the No. 58 car was doing the same, but was able to motor to a 9th place finish.

The No. 56 car also experienced technical difficulties. The car was dropping oil pressure and could not turn a complete lap. Todd Buras was driving the car when the issue came about. The 56 Mazda looked to be on course to have a shining race, Christian Miller started the car and was not having any problems. But then things slowly started unraveling. The brake lights were acting up and when they switched drivers Buras was plagued with a sputtering MX-5. The team had to retire the car after turning 63 laps.

“When I walked down pit lane the track looked like a junk yard with all the smoking race cars,” said driver Todd Buras. The GP3R race did a number on all of the race cars, but with three weeks off until the next race in Salt Lake City, BSI Racing will be well rested and ready to take on the next KONI event.

BSI Racing appreciates support from MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development, KONI, Joe Gibbs Racing Oil, MOMO, SPEEDCOM Communications, BBS, Creative Motorsports Solutions, JustRacing.com and Sun Belt Performance Engines.

BSI Racing offers race car preparation, trackside support, fabrication, and parts for the Mazda MX-5. The race team will be campaigning Mazda MX-5 cars in the KONI Challenge Series and participating in the 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup.

For information on MX-5 rental and ownership programs, visit www.bsiracing.com

Lauren Liebowitz

BSI Racing
Office: 386-677-5778
Cell: 386-237-3987

Posted On 8/22/07

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American GT: Sebring Round 5 News

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 10:59:13 PST

American GT: Sebring Round 5 News
By Tony Febles, American GT

Race 1

Sebring, Fla (August 11, 2007) – Jordan Bupp won the first of two races of the AGTRRA Inter-Americas Challenge Round 5 at Sebring International Raceway. Jordan Bupp, who is leading the Rookie of the year Championship, had the fastest race lap, let the must laps and is the first rookie ever to win an American GT race. “I was very excited about this event from day one, since I know the track and the car was set up perfectly by Pierre and the crew.” said Jordan Bupp when ask about his win. “We also consider Sebring our home track, our shop is just a couple of hour from here and I have driven this course many times.” Jordan added.

Second place was Edison Lluch Sr., who sat on the pole but only led one lap, “Jordan had a great run, his car was really fast and he drove a very intelligent race, but as uncle Yuyo says: ‘Tomorrow is another day.’ and I will try my best as always” said Lluch Sr. referring to Sunday’s race. Sr. is second in the Inter-Americas Championship and third in the Southeast points, will no doubt regain both championships when the weekend is over. Edison Jr. did not finish the event and will not be able to start tomorrow since he crashed in turn 17 trying to pass for the lead.

Kenny Bupp, who is currently third in the standings, started forth on the grid, was second for while and finished third. Kenny was probably the happiest competitor in the podium, not only he had a great run, but Jordan – his son – won the race.

Race 2

Sebring, Fla (August 12, 2007) -- – Edison Lluch Sr. won today’s AGTRRA Inter-Americas Challenge second race round 5, Shoot Out at Sebring. John Leavy finished second and Luis Tomas Mendez third.

Posted On 8/22/07

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Foundation Fantasy Raffle! Win the dedicated track car you always wanted!

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 11:11:02 PST

Foundation Fantasy Raffle! Win the dedicated track car you always wanted!
By Mike Mitchell, BMW CCA Foundation

Your Next Track Car?

August 21, 2007 -- Many of you know that the Tire Rack Street Survival program is large focus of the BMW CCA Foundation. Without the help of the chapters, we wouldn’t be able to put on the Street Survival schools. However, it is also clear many of you don’t realize there is more to the Foundation than our on-going efforts at teen driver education. At it’s core, the CCA Foundation is a charitable 501(c)3 organization-meaning all donations we receive in cash or in kind are eligible for a bonafide IRS tax deduction. And in addition to supporting a wide range of vintage events, road rallies and related enthusiast events aimed at getting the great cars of yesteryear out and in public view, we also have a sizable and growing Library and Archive project that is dedicated to preserving as well as making available historical BMW related materials of just about any kind relating to the marque-for both educational and enthusiast related purposes. To that end, we have been accepting donations of money and or historical items for the archive from club members all over the nation, BMW dealers and independent shops, and even from BMW NA since the Foundation was established in 2002. Whether you are cleaning out your study, or your garage we are always fielding inquiries from neighbors, members & friends who would rather see their boxes of BMW related memorabilia go to the Foundation archive-rather than the landfill!

Recently, the Foundation approached another milestone when we received some very exciting news. A twelve year CCA member of the Bayou BMW chapter, (who has asked to remain anonymous), wrote us with an incredible offer explaining he would like to donate his beloved ‘95 BMW E36 M3 to the Foundation. He wants the car to be raffled off so that we can use the proceeds to further the great programs and good works the Foundation has undertaken. He is the original owner and knows the car inside and out. The car is in excellent condition and was produced in December 1994. Hellorot red with black leather Vader seats. Total mileage is believed to be 78,000. Please see our website www.bmwccafoundation.org for a complete list of upgrades and modifications to this car.

We always fantasized that one day someone might donate a car. And now it has become a reality. And in turn we feel the only proper thing to do is offer it back to the membership in the form of a Foundation Fantasy Raffle! Although this car is full and completely road legal, how about a raffle offering the dedicated track car you always dreamed of-but could never get your significant other to allow you to finagle!

The raffle will go until December 14, 2007 with the car being given away just before Christmas 2007. Ticket prices will be 1 for $10, 3 for $25, or 7 for $50. So at this year’s Oktoberfest in Ft Worth, TX, we will have a booth to promote the Foundation which will include a very special Hot Rod E36 M3 - with a large Bow on the roof! Tickets to the Foundation Fantasy raffle will be sold at the BMW CCA Foundation booth and on our website – www.bmwccafoundation.org. And if you are in Ft Worth during Oktoberfest, stop by to say hello and see the car!

Could this be the track car you never could afford? Or maybe you have always wanted an E36 M3, but just haven’t been able to find one. Well, here is your golden opportunity! And for ten bucks or less-how can she say no! It’s raising money for a worthy charity no less!

Posted On 8/21/07

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Rolex Monterey Historic Races Concludes With Series Of Ceremonial Laps And Awards Celebration

Sun, 19 Aug 2007 11:08:35 PST

Rolex Monterey Historic Races Concludes With Series Of Ceremonial Laps And Awards Celebration
By Meredith Powell, Hill & Knowlton

Final seven groups take the track for Sunday’s afternoon competitions; Prize giving ceremony brings participants together for closing tribute

MONTEREY, Calif. – Beautiful weather and spirited competition continued during a busy final day at the 34th Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races presented by Toyota. Seven groups of vehicles, ranging in models from the late 1940s to the early 1980s raced 10 laps each during the afternoon after a series of warm-up laps in the morning.

The day also featured a number of parade laps in the afternoon, including Toyota 2000 GTs and the “Legends of Motorsports,” where the legendary drivers took the track one last time, this time in Toyota Tundra trucks. Other Toyota demo laps ran throughout the afternoon.

In the afternoon races, group 1B winner was Don Crawford of Portland driving a 1955 Lotus Mk IX, edging out Jeff Abramson of Alamo, Calif., driving a 1954 Ferrari 500MD. In group 2B, Bernard Juchli of Burbank, Calif. won the checkered flag in a 1955 Hagemann-Jaguar Spl. Jimmy Domingos of Carmel, Calif. won the group 3B race driving a 1962 Cooper T59 F-Jr. over Reg Howell from Carona Del Mar, Calif. in his Brabham BT-6 F-Jr. Group 4B was won by Tony Garmey from Gig Harbor, Wash. driving a 1957 Corvette. Chris MacAllister of Indianapolis, driving a 1971 McLaren M8F, took the group 5B race ahead of Steve Cook of Santa Clara, Calif. in his 1968 McLaren M6B.

After a series of demonstration laps, the races continued, but not for long, as three vehicles were taken out early in the group 6B race, resulting in a caution yellow flag. Track communication issues then resulted in a red flag, halting the race for moments. Once racing continued, John Harden from Oklahoma City won in a 1963 Huffaker Genie. The final race of the weekend, 1972-1981 historic IMSA GT cars, was won by Chad Raynal from San Jose, Calif. in a 1975 Dekon Monza.

To officially conclude the weekend’s events, the annual awards ceremony was held at the Red Bull Center, which overlooks the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca grounds. All race winners and entrants were recognized and continued the humorous tradition of trading hats while receiving ceremonial prizes. Steven Earle of General Racing, the official race organizer, emceed the ceremony and thanked all involved with the weekend’s events.

“We’re so grateful to all the people that help make this event happen, from the entrants and drivers, to all those fine folks behind the scenes,” said Earle, founder and president of General Racing. “This is such a joy to be part of an event that people love so much, and you can bet we’re going to continue racing these cars year after year.”

The Monterey Cup, the top overall award of the weekend, was given to Phil Reilly for his 1960 Kurtis-Epperly.

The Rolex Awards, which recognize outstanding performance and presence in each group, were presented to:

1A: Conrad Stevensen, 1939 Alfa Romeo 6C2
2A: David Morris, 1934 ERA
3A: John Kerby-Miller, 1958 Porsche 356A
4A: Jim Lawrence, 1958 Lotus 15
5A: Chris Cox, 1958 Ferrari 412 MI
6A: Terry Gough, 1965 Corvette
7A: Chris MacAllister, 1972 Mirage M6
1B: Jeff Abramson, 1954 Ferrari 500 MD
2B: Ivan Zaremba, 1951 Hudson Hornet
3B: Patrick Moran, 1962 Lotus 22 F-JR
4B: Ned Spieker, 1961 Ferrari 250 SWB
5B: Steve Cook, 1968 McLaren M6B
6B: Tom Claridge, 1961 Lotus 19
7B: Ranson Webster, 1976 Porsche 935
Indy Roadster: Larry Pfitzenmaier, 1959 Watson “Simoniz Special”

The Road & Track Magazine Award honored a vehicle that the editors would most like to drive. This award went to Ernie Prisbe for his 1971 Ferrari 312 PB.

Ford Motor Company’s Tom Center Award, honoring the most significant Ford at the historic races, went to Dr. John Miller and driver Chuck Day for their 1957 Thunderbird.

The Automobile Magazine Award, recognizing the spirit of vintage racing, was won by Stan and Miki Anderes and their 1956 Lotus 11 LM.

Pre and post-war vehicles were honored for the Historic Award, and this year’s winners were Brian Mullin’s 1938 Talbot Lago 26 SS and Chris MacAllister’s 1971 McClaren M8F.

Alan Moss’ 1948 MG TC was also awarded as a vehicle with great presentation.

Speed TV will televise the Rolex Monterey Historic Races on September 30th at 6:00 p.m. EDT.

Upcoming General Racing Event: Rolex Vintage Festival at Lime Rock Park

Located in the beautiful country setting of Lime Rock, CT, the Rolex Vintage Festival presented by BMW is one of the largest vintage automobile celebrations on the East Coast, showcasing a diverse field of race cars over Labor Day weekend. The vehicle entrants will span eight decades, from timeless pre-war classics to the roar of historic Trans-Am machines and exotic prototypes from the 1980s.

Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races
Organized by General Racing, Ltd., the Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races is an “automotive museum brought to life,” and the largest event, with over 40,000 visitors, of the renowned classic car weekend in Monterey, Calif. With a broad appeal, it attracts a diverse group of visitors and participants – including children, families, collectors, sports enthusiasts and automotive history buffs. The 34th Rolex Monterey Historic Presented by Toyota will be held August 17-19, 2007 at the historic Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

General Racing
General Racing stages events across the United States to celebrate classic, historic, and vintage racing cars, where they can be shown and driven as intended. General Racing encourages the restoration of the cars as they once were and helps to preserve and promote and the history of motorsports through these events.
General Racing’s premier event, the Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races, is located at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in California. This event, now in its 34th year, has become one of the worlds greatest vintage race weekends. Other General Racing events are located at Lime Rock Park CT, Infineon Raceway, Sonoma CA, and NAS North Island, Coronado CA. Additional information is available at www.generalracing.com.

Posted On 8/19/07

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Race Of Legends And Anniversary Win Highlight Day Three At Rolex Monterey Historic Races

Sun, 19 Aug 2007 11:08:08 PST

Race Of Legends And Anniversary Win Highlight Day Three At Rolex Monterey Historic Races
By Meredith Powell, Hill & Knowlton

Honoree Pete Lovely caps memorable weekend with victory; Derek Bell takes flag at inaugural Race of Legends

MONTEREY, Calif. – Sunny skies prevailed while history repeated itself on Saturday at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca during the 34th Rolex Monterey Historic Races presented by Toyota. The day’s highlights included a win by Pete Lovely, this year’s “Legend of Laguna Seca” honoree, who was victorious 50 years after taking the first-ever win at the track in 1957.

Driving his 1959 Lotus 11 during the 1955-1960 sports racing cars under 2500cc class, Lovely, of Tacoma, Wash. held off Jim Lawrence from Lafayette, Calif. in his 1958 Lotus 15. Lovely was then honored as a “Legend of Laguna Seca” during a 50th Anniversary celebration dinner at Quail Lodge Resort & Golf Club.

The victory added to the legendary theme of the day, as spectators and motorsports fanatics, including Jay Leno, witnessed the first-ever “Race of Legends,” featuring past motorsports stars such as Bobby Rahal, Emerson Fittipaldi and Parnelli Jones.

The Race of Legends was won by Derek Bell, the five-time LeMans champion from Great Britain. Bell edged out 1986 Indianapolis 500 winner Bobby Rahal as well as Emerson Fittipaldi, a two-time winner at Indy. The legends raced in Toyota Scion tc sport coupes, and several challenged the track by hitting the wall and off-course dirt path. On the final lap, Vic Elford took a sharp turn at 11, which forced him into the dirt and out of the race.

By winning the race, Bell received $25,000, which was donated to his charity of choice. The donation was split between Hope for Tomorrow, a UK-based national cancer charity, helps those with cancer, their families and dependants to cope with the reality of the situation (www.hopefortomorrow.org.uk) and the Florence Fuller Foundation, a Boca, Raton, Florida philanthropic organization designed to provide long-term financial security and endowments to the Florence Fuller Child Development Centers to assist with providing inclusive quality child care and family support services in preparation for a lifetime of positive learning (www.florencefullerfoundation.org).

The Indy Roadsters also came to center stage on Saturday, with a series of celebration laps in the early afternoon. The Indy Roadster is the featured attraction during this year’s race and spectators experienced a historic interactive display featuring a number of Indy winners delivered from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum.

Along with Lovely’s victorious ride, there were a number of other notable winners on Saturday. In group 1A, the pre-1940 sports and touring cars, Brian Mullin of Los Angeles won in his 1938 Talbot Lago 26 SS. David Morris of Portola Valley, Calif. took victory in group 2A, 1925-1950 racing cars and Indy roadsters. Group 3A winner was Leonard Turnbeaugh from Markleeville, Calif., driving a 1958 Porsche 3. Larry Bowman, the charity auction winner who earlier in the day raced with the Race of Legends, won group 5A, 1955-1960 sports racing cars over 2500cc.

After a series of exhibition laps, the group racing continued with 1963-1966 production sports cars over 2500cc. The race was won by Rob Walton from Paradise Valley, Ariz. in his 1965 Cobra Daytona. The racing concluded with the 1965-1972 FIA manufacturing championship cars, won by Chris MacAllister from Indianapolis, driving a 1972 Mirage M6.

Sunday Preview: Legends of Motorsports, Final Day of Group Races

The final day of racing at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca will feature a number of parade laps in the afternoon, including Toyota 2000 GTs and the “Legends of Motorsports,” where the legendary drivers will take the track in Toyota Tundra trucks. Other Toyota demo laps will take place throughout the afternoon.

After warm-up laps in the morning, the race groups competing throughout the afternoon include sport racing and production cars, formula cars, production sports cars, historic Can-Am cars, sports racing cars and historic IMSA GT cars.

The day and weekend’s events will officially conclude with an award ceremony for all race winners at the Red Bull Center on the track’s concourse.

Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races
Organized by General Racing, Ltd., the Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races is an “automotive museum brought to life,” and the largest event, with over 40,000 visitors, of the renowned classic car weekend in Monterey, Calif. With a broad appeal, it attracts a diverse group of visitors and participants – including children, families, collectors, sports enthusiasts and automotive history buffs. The 34th Rolex Monterey Historic Presented by Toyota will be held August 17-19, 2007 at the historic Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

General Racing
General Racing stages events across the United States to celebrate classic, historic, and vintage racing cars, where they can be shown and driven as intended. General Racing encourages the restoration of the cars as they once were and helps to preserve and promote and the history of motorsports through these events.
General Racing’s premier event, the Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races, is located at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in California. This event, now in its 34th year, has become one of the worlds greatest vintage race weekends. Other General Racing events are located at Lime Rock Park CT, Infineon Raceway, Sonoma CA, and NAS North Island, Coronado CA. Additional information is available at www.generalracing.com.

Posted On 8/19/07

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Saini Wins at Trois-Rivires, Clinches MX-5 Cup Championship

Sun, 19 Aug 2007 10:33:10 PST

Saini Wins at Trois-Rivires, Clinches MX-5 Cup Championship
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TROIS-RIVIÈRES, Que. (Aug. 19, 2007) – Starting on pole and leading all 29 laps, Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, not only won Round Seven of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup at the Grand Prix de Trois-Rivièrs, but also clinched the 2007 MX-5 Cup Championship. Todd Buras, of Fort Worth, Texas, and Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., completed the podium.

The MX-5 Cup race at Trois-Rivières might have looked like a breeze for Saini, who lead the entire race unchallenged, but three full-course caution periods for disabled cars on course, made the 45-minute, 44.109-mile race seem like an eternity to the driver of the No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/SafeRacer.com MX-5.

“I went out there and was able to pull away a little bit,” Saini said. “But, then the caution came out. I pulled away a little more on the restart and another caution came out. I was thinking ‘this is the longest race I’ve done in my entire life.’ I just wanted some green flag. Eventually we got a long green flag run and I was able to pull a gap, but when the yellow flag came out again I thought there was going to be a last lap scrap. I would have been ready for that.”

In the end it wouldn’t be a last lap scrap and the race would finish under yellow, for the No. 09 O Water/Alex’s Lemonade MX-5 of John Kuitwaard, disabled in Turn One. Taking the checkered flag behind the pace car couldn’t stop Saini from savoring the victory however, as the win earned him enough points to clinch the 2007 MX-5 Cup Championship ahead of the final round at Miller Motorsports Park in September. As the Champion, Saini has won himself a ride in the 2008 SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship courtesy of Mazda.

“This is pretty indescribable,” Saini beamed. “Racing has always been a dream of mine. I’ve worked really hard and I’ve had a ton of support from so many people. I can’t even put into words what it feels like to get a professional championship. What Mazda has put up for a prize is just a dream come true for me. I grew up watching World Challenge and its predecessors and always hoped that I’d have a chance to drive there and now getting the opportunity to do that, I’m just thrilled.

“I have to thank Team MER and the whole crew for putting together an awesome car. We tweaked it every session and got a little faster every session. Half the time you do changes and you go backwards, but every one of ours went forwards and it was even better for the race.”

Rounds Seven was a clean sweep for Saini. In addition to qualifying on pole and leading every lap, he reset the MX-5 Cup lap record, entering a fast time of 1:16.170 (71.886 mph) around the 11-turn, 1.521-mile temporary street circuit and taking home the Hawk Hot Lap award. The three caution periods slowed the average speed of the race to 58.109 mph.

Buras collected his best finish of the season and best career-finish at Trois-Rivières with a run from sixth to finish second. Driving the No. 56 BSI/Team Garcia/MOMO/Joe Gibbs MX-5, Buras used the two restarts pick up spots in the race, but wasn’t prepared to challenge Saini.

“When the yellows came out I was putting together a strategy to get by Jason, but I was also trying to save the gearbox.” Buras said. “I think if that wasn’t in the back of my mind I could have maybe had something for him. He got hot lap, but I was only two tenths off.

“The BSI Team put together a really good car this weekend. From the first lap to the last lap the car didn’t change at all. I’ve got to say thanks to my wife and the new baby, to Stu and the entire crew. I’ve also got to thank Mazda and SIRIUS for putting this series together and especially Three Rivers. This is a great place and a lot of fun, it just clicks for me. I’ve been real fast since the first time I came here. I like the walls and I don’t mind getting real close. I got a couple stripes today, but it doesn’t bother me.”

Starting third, Caddell was one of two drivers with a mathematical shot at stopping Saini from clinching the Championship this season, but a third-place finish was not enough for the driver of the No. 30 Team MER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5 to halt his teammate’s Championship run. Caddell, however, was happy with his race.

“Jason got a really good start, so I just followed him through Turn One, but Pratt [Cole] kept it in there in Turn Two,” Caddell said. “I couldn’t do anything about it, so I just wound up in third. Then Todd got up there after the first full-course yellow and Jesse [Combs] got past me. I was content to ride there, but then Jesse missed a shift, so I got back by him. After that I was just trying to hold off Pratt and those guys back there.

“It was all and all a good race. The car was set-up all right for the beginning of the race. The short run was really good, but once we had that long run I had nothing for them. The second yellow was good for me, but the third yellow was bad, because all those guys were right up on me and I was thinking ‘oh, here we go.’ I was a little nervous for that restart, but then we ended up finishing under yellow.”

The other driver that had the potential to catch Saini in the Championship was Ara Malkhassian, of Sonoma, Calif. Driving the No. 11 Alara Racing MX-5, Malkhassian worked his way up from seventh on the grid to finish fourth. Pratt Cole, of Salt Lake City, Utah, finished fifth in his No. 88 DEX/Western Companies/RPM MX-5.

Mark Jenkins, Brad McAllister, Mike Jenkins, Andrew Carbonell and Forest Barber completed the top ten.

Actor and Grey’s Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey just missed the top-ten, finishing 11th after starting 16th in the No. 29 AutismSpeaks.org/TeamMER MX-5.

Saini exits Round Seven with 218 points and the Championship clinched. He is followed by Caddell with 169 points and Malkhassian with 161 points.

The final round of the Mazda MX-5 Cup will take place September 13 – 15 at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah. For all the latest news visit www.mx-5cup.com.

Results from Sunday’s 29-lap, 44.109-mile SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Seven race, part of the Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières, with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps and reason out (if any).

1. (1), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 29.
2. (6), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 29, -1.719.
3. (3), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 29, -2.059.
4. (7), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 29, -3.128.
5. (2), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 29, -3.998.
6. (5), Mark Jenkins, McKinney, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 29, -4.264.
7. (10), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 29, -5.073.
8. (13), Mike Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 29, -5.815.
9. (11), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 29, -6.485.
10. (17), Forest Barber, Forth Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 29, -7.635.
11. (16), Patrick Dempsey, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 29, -8.398.
12. (19), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 29, -9.279.
13. (18), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 29, -10.693.
14. (26), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 29, -10.785.
15. (22), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 29, -11.616.
16. (4), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 29, -12.594.
17. (28), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 29, -13.182.
18. (20), Mike Gatto, Cumming, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 29, -14.251.
19. (24), Brad Adams, New Orleans, La., MX-5, 29, -14.868.
20. (23), Donnie Barnes, Chapel Hill, N.C., Mazda MX-5, 28, -1 lap.
21. (27), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 28, -1 lap.
22. (29), Ed Brown, Henderson, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 28, -1 lap.
23. (14), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 26, -3 laps.
24. (15), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 24, Crash.
25. (12), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 18, Transmissi.
26. (25), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 14, Crash.
27. (8), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 11, Transmissi.
28. (21), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 5, Mech.
29. (9), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 0, Crash.

Time of race: 45 minutes, 32.669 seconds.
Average speed: 58.109 mph
Margin of victory: 1.719 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-29, #28 Jason Saini
Hawk Hot Lap: #28 Jason Saini, 1:16.170 (71.886 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #28 Jason Saini, 1:16.382 (71.687 mph)
Laps Led: #28, 1-29

SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Championship Points
After Seven of Eight Rounds
Ps., Driver, Points (Wins)
1, Jason Saini, 218 (5)
2, Andrew Caddell, 168 (1)
3, Ara Malkhassian, 161 (1)
4, Jesse Combs, 135
5, Matt Cross, 118
6, Pratt Cole, 116
7, Andrew Carbonell, 103
8, Barry Fromberg, 101
9, Bob Michaelian, 90
10, Brad McAllister, 89

Attached image: Start of the MX-5 Cup race at Trois-Rivieres with No. 28 Jason Saini leading.
Credit: Juha Lievonen

Posted On 8/19/07

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Legendary Drivers Bring Motorsports History To Life At Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races

Sat, 18 Aug 2007 04:59:41 PST

Legendary Drivers Bring Motorsports History To Life At Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races
By Meredith Powell, Hill And Knowlton

Five-time Le Mans Champion Derek Bell wins inaugural “Race of Legends” presented by Toyota

MONTEREY, Calif. – As the Scion tC Sport Coupes lined up for the “Race of Legends” at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca on Saturday, a group with a combined 14 Indianapolis 500 championships joined together for a once-in-a-lifetime gathering of motorsports legends.

In one of the most anticipated events of the weekend, race legends entertained fans with skillful driving and risky maneuvering throughout the race, in which drivers holding championships from nearly every level of racing, including Formula One, the Indy 500 and the 24 Hours of LeMans, competed in an eight-lap charity race driving 215 hp Scion tC sport coupes. The field held an impressive lineup of drivers, including Bobby Unser, Al Unser Sr., Johnny Rutherford, Bobby Rahal, Parnelli Jones, Vic Elford, Emerson Fittipaldi, Ove Andersson and Derek Bell.

“It’s not every day where you get to see drivers of this caliber gather on one track to compete,” said Steven Earle, Monterey Historic founder and president of General Racing, the official race organizer. “It’s a great pleasure for fans and enthusiasts to witness their heroes still racing at the highest levels. As we witnessed out here today, they remain as competitive as ever.”

The 10 drivers, which also included amateur driver Lawrence Bowman who won the opportunity through a charity auction, vied tightly for positions throughout the race, including several instances where vehicles were knocked off course. During the final lap, Vic Elford’s number-20 car was sideswiped in turn 11, sending his vehicle into the corner and a cloud of dirt in the air. Earlier in the race, bumping in the famous corkscrew resulted in vehicles veering off-course and scraping the course wall.

The fastest lap time belonged to 1986 Indianapolis 500 champ Bobby Rahal, who clocked in at 1 minute, 51 seconds and a speed of 72 MPH. In the end, Derek Bell’s number-25 car held off Rahal and Emerson Fittipaldi to take the checkered flag.

“The whole weekend is really an experience,” said Bell, the five-time Le Mans winner and Formula One driver from Great Britain. “Being with these fantastic heroes, really these people are my heroes, is so amusing and it’s such a privilege to be here. I have to quote Emerson because he said it best: 'We are so privileged to be here because we are alive. We are all together, and there is a unique bond between us that no other sport has.'"

With his victory in the Race of Legends, Bell was awarded $25,000, which will be donated to two organizations: Hope for Tomorrow, a UK-based national cancer charity, which helps those with cancer, their families and dependants to cope with the reality of the situation (www.hopefortomorrow.org.uk) and the Florence Fuller Foundation, a Boca, Raton, Florida philanthropic organization designed to provide long-term financial security and endowments to the Florence Fuller Child Development Centers to assist with providing inclusive quality child care and family support services in preparation for a lifetime of positive learning (www.florencefullerfoundation.org).

Amateur driver Larry Bowman of Redwood City, Calif., who joined the legends by winning an auction to compete in the race, was knocked off track and out of the race early. Bowman bid $16,100 in a charity auction, which benefits the Salinas Valley Memorial Foundation, helping to support children’s health care and wellness needs throughout California’s Central coast.

The race results are as follows:

1. Derek Bell (GBR)

2. Bobby Rahal (USA)

3. Emerson Fittipaldi (BRA)

4. Al Unser, Sr. (USA)

5. Parnelli Jones (USA)

6. Bobby Unser (USA)

7. Ove Andersson (SWE)

8. Larry Bowman* (USA)

9. Vic Elford* (GBR)

10. Johnny Rutherford* (USA)

*DNF

Throughout the day, the drivers signed autographs for fans in the paddock near the roadster display and in the expo area.

Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races
Organized by General Racing, Ltd., the Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races is an “automotive museum brought to life,” and the largest event, with over 40,000 visitors, of the renowned classic car weekend in Monterey, Calif. With a broad appeal, it attracts a diverse group of visitors and participants – including children, families, collectors, sports enthusiasts and automotive history buffs. The 34th Rolex Monterey Historic Presented by Toyota will be held August 17-19, 2007 at the historic Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

General Racing
General Racing stages events across the United States to celebrate classic, historic, and vintage racing cars, where they can be shown and driven as intended. General Racing encourages the restoration of the cars as they once were and helps to preserve and promote and the history of motorsports through these events.
General Racing’s premier event, the Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races, is located at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in California. This event, now in its 34th year, has become one of the worlds greatest vintage race weekends. Other General Racing events are located at Lime Rock Park CT, Infineon Raceway, Sonoma CA, and NAS North Island, Coronado CA. Additional information is available at www.generalracing.com.

Posted On 8/18/07

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Ferraris Take Center Stage During Day Two At 34th Rolex Monterey Historics

Sat, 18 Aug 2007 11:47:05 PST

Ferraris Take Center Stage During Day Two At 34th Rolex Monterey Historics
By Meredith Powell, Hill & Knowlton Chicago

Classic Italian Roadsters Featured Attraction at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca; Set the Stage for Action-Filled Race Weekend

MONTEREY, Calif. – The 34th Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races presented by Toyota continued Friday with a celebration of the Ferrari, including two historic challenge races in the late afternoon.

After a commemoration lap with modern body styles, the two competing groups were divided by vehicles with drum brakes, followed by those with disc brakes. The winner of the drum brake group was Tom Price of Larkspur, Calif., driving a Maserati 200 SI, followed by the disc brake group winner, Todd Morici of Clifton, NJ, driving a Ferrari 512 BB-LM.

Friday’s track events also included qualifying practice laps by a number of vehicle groups throughout the afternoon in preparation for the weekend’s exciting competition.

Saturday Preview: Race of Legends Square Off, Races Continue

In one of the most anticipated events of the weekend, race legends will thrill fans by getting behind the wheel for Toyota’s inaugural “Race of Legends,” in which drivers holding championships from nearly every level of racing, including Formula One, the Indy 500and the 24 Hours of LeMans, will compete in an eight-lap charity race driving 215 hp Scion tC sport coupes. The field holds an impressive lineup of motorsports history, including Bobby Unser, Al Unser Sr., Johnny Rutherford, Bobby Rahal, Parnelli Jones, Vic Elford, Emerson Fittipaldi, Ove Andersson and Derek Bell.

“It will be a great thrill to see these drivers out on the track at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca and compete with each other as they did years ago,” said Monterey Historic founder and president of race organizer General Racing, Steven Earle. “When they enter each curve of this track, and of course the corkscrew, you realize these guys are reliving and still making motorsports history at every turn.”

The legends will be available for autographs in the paddock from 10:00-11:00 a.m. near the roadster display and from 4:00-5:00 p.m. in the expo area.

While his name might not be as familiar to most race fans, Lawrence Bowman of Redwood City, Calif. will be cheered enthusiastically for his love of motorsports and philanthropic efforts. Bowman bid $16,100 in a charity auction to compete with these legendary drivers. The funds benefit the Salinas Valley Memorial Foundation, which helps support children’s health care and wellness needs throughout California’s Central coast.

In addition to the Race of Legends, Indy Roadster celebration laps will occur throughout the day, along with group competitions in sports and touring cars, racing cars and Indy roadsters, production sports cars and sports racing cars. The groups will range from pre-1940 models and proceed in timeline order, ending with 1965-1972 era cars.

Laguna Seca Legend To Be Honored

In November 1957, Pete Lovely won the first main event at Laguna Seca driving a Ferrari 500TR, and 50 years later, he continues his legendary racing style on the track. On Saturday, Pete will race his Lotus 11, and then be honored as a “Legend of Laguna Seca” during a 50th Anniversary celebration dinner at Quail Lodge Resort & Golf Club. On Thursday evening, Pete was officially inducted into the Legends of Laguna Seca by Monterey Mayor Chuck Della Sala and Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca CEO/General Manager Gill Campbell.

Race Overview

The 400 cars participating in the Rolex Monterey Historic races are divided into 14 groups based on age and engine size, selected for their history, interest and current state of presentation. The oldest car dates from 1914 (Mercer) and the newest from 1981 (Porsche 935K4). Porsche, Ferrari, Lotus, Corvette, McLaren and Shelby lead with the number of entries. A team of nine pre-World War II Bentleys also will be arriving from England to try and master the track.

Well-known drivers who will be competing include John Morton, Andy Porterfield, Chuck Daigh, Pete Lovely, Bobby Rahal and Brian Redman. The 14 races are split with seven groups racing Saturday and seven on Sunday.

Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races
Organized by General Racing, Ltd., the Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races is an “automotive museum brought to life,” and the largest event, with over 40,000 visitors, of the renowned classic car weekend in Monterey, Calif. With a broad appeal, it attracts a diverse group of visitors and participants – including children, families, collectors, sports enthusiasts and automotive history buffs. The 34th Rolex Monterey Historic Presented by Toyota will be held August 17-19, 2007 at the historic Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

General Racing
General Racing stages events across the United States to celebrate classic, historic, and vintage racing cars, where they can be shown and driven as intended. General Racing encourages the restoration of the cars as they once were and helps to preserve and promote and the history of motorsports through these events.
General Racing’s premier event, the Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races, is located at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in California. This event, now in its 34th year, has become one of the worlds greatest vintage race weekends. Other General Racing events are located at Lime Rock Park CT, Infineon Raceway, Sonoma CA, and NAS North Island, Coronado CA. Additional information is available at www.generalracing.com.

Posted On 8/18/07

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Saini Claims MX-5 Pole, Inches Closer to Championship in Trois-Rivires

Sat, 18 Aug 2007 10:09:26 PST

Saini Claims MX-5 Pole, Inches Closer to Championship in Trois-Rivires
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TROIS-RIVIÈRES, Que. (Aug. 18, 2007) – Increasing his changes of clinching the Championship a round early, Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, earned his second-consecutive pole for Round Seven of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Championship, part of the Grand Prix de Trois-Rivères. Pratt Cole, of Salt Lake City, Utah, will start second.

Turning a lap of 1:16.382 (71.687 mph) at the 11-turn, 1.521-mile temporary street course, Saini reset the MX-5 Cup lap record at Trois-Rivieres by nearly 0.02-second and believes the No.28 Autobarn Mazda/SafeRacer.com MX-5 still has more in it for the race.

“The car felt fantastic,” Saini said. “We made some changes to the car and the track felt much better this morning. With the cool air it was working great. I actually passed a car during that lap, so there’s some more in there.”

Saini earns an additional two points for his pole position, which means a third-place finish or better is all it will take to clinch the 2007 MX-5 Cup Championship this weekend. Saini thanked his team for easing the pressure of capturing a win on the tight street circuit.

“I feel like I’m in a position now where I can defend the lead rather than scrap my way up there,” Saini continued. “Being on pole at a street course is always a good advantage, so I have to thank the team and everyone that worked so hard.”

Earning the highest grid position of his MX-5 Cup career, Cole climbed his way up to the second row on the final lap of the 20-minute session. Driving the No. 88 DEX/Western Companies/RPM MX-5, Cole entered a time of 1:17.073 (71.044 mph).

Saini’s teammate and closest Championship rival Andrew Caddell, of Graham Wash., will start third. As qualifying came to a close, it appeared the driver of the No. 30 Team MER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5 would complete the front row with his teammate, entering a time of 1:17.107 (71. 013 mph). Alas, the young driver’s spot was snatched by the veteran Cole on the final lap. Currently 43 points behind Saini, a win is essential for Caddell to stop his teammate from clinching the title in the penultimate round.

Jesse Combs, of Woodlands, Texas, will start fourth in his No. 7 Coolgas Ltd./Alara Racing MX-5 with a time of 1:17.164 (70.690 mph). In only his third MX-5 Cup race, Mark Jenkins, of McKinney, Texas, will take up the fifth spot on the grid.

Third at Trois-Riviès last year, Todd Buras will start sixth, alongside the only other driver with a mathematical chance of catching Saini in the final two races, Ara Malkhassian. Matt Cross, Tim Probert and Brad McAllister complete the top ten.
In his second MX-5 Cup appearance, actor and star of Grey’s Anatomy, Patrick Dempsey qualified 16th on the grid in the No. 29 AutismSpeaks.org/Team MER MX-5.

Sunday’s 45-minute race is scheduled to begin at 9:20 a.m. (EDT). Live timing and notes can be found at www.mx-5cup.com

Starting lineup for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Seven race, part of the Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:16.382, 71.687.
2, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 1:17.073, 71.044.
3, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 1:17.107, 71.013.
4, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:17.164, 70.960.
5, (22), Mark Jenkins, McKinney, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:17.301, 70.834.
6, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:17.306, 70.830.
7, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:17.385, 70.757.
8, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:17.555, 70.602.
9, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:17.566, 70.592.
10, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:17.613, 70.550.
11, (58), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:17.715, 70.457.
12, (19), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:17.903, 70.287.
13, (47), Mike Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:17.921, 70.271.
14, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.097, 70.112.
15, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.244, 69.981.
16, (29), Patrick Dempsey, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.537, 69.720.
17, (24), Forest Barber, Forth Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:18.661, 69.610.
18, (21), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.673, 69.599.
19, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:18.752, 69.529.
20, (57), Mike Gatto, Cumming, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.797, 69.490.
21, (83), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.864, 69.431.
22, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 1:18.916, 69.385.
23, (25), Donnie Barnes, Chapel Hill, N.C., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.969, 69.338.
24, (54), Brad Adams, New Orleans, La., MX-5, 1:19.010, 69.302.
25, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 1:19.176, 69.157.
26, (01), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:19.204, 69.132.
27, (5), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:19.261, 69.083.
28, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:19.593, 68.795.
29, (08), Ed Brown, Henderson, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 1:25.964, 63.696.

Attached image: With pole, Jason Saini has taken another step towards the 2007 MX-5 Cup Championship
Credit: Juha Leivonen

Posted On 8/18/07

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Grey's Anatomy Star Patrick Dempsey Prepares for MX-5 Cup Races

Sat, 18 Aug 2007 10:05:09 PST

Grey's Anatomy Star Patrick Dempsey Prepares for MX-5 Cup Races
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TROIS-RIVIERES, Que. (Aug. 18, 2007) – Better known for making hearts race as Dr. Derek Sheperd, a.k.a. McDreamy, on ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy, Patrick Dempsey will take part in some more traditional racing at the Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières when he competes in Round Seven of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup.

A hectic filming schedule has kept Dempsey’s race-seat time to a minimum so far this season, but after wrapping up work on his latest movie, the actor is ready to return to his favorite hobby in a series that will quickly bring his skills back up to par.

“I think the competition is unbelievable in MX-5 Cup,” Dempsey said. “If you can be competitive in this series, you can be competitive in any series. It really teaches you momentum and working on your line, plus the cars are a lot of fun to drive.”

Dempsey’s love of racing is a life-long one. Growing up attending races like the Indy 500 with his father, it wasn’t long before being a spectator wasn’t enough and racing school beckoned. As his acting career blossomed with the success of Grey’s Anatomy, so did his racing career. Now an Indy Racing League team owner as well as driver in SCCA and Grand-American races, Dempsey has found that racing and acting give his life a calming yet productive balance.

“It’s in my contract when I renegotiated that I had to be able to race,” smiled Dempsey. “It’s important for my well being and their well being, because I come back to the set humbled and grateful that I got the opportunity to slip away. I appreciate my day job more and vice versa when I get to come to the track.

“A lot of the pros I’ve met through the racing schools, so they’ve known me before [Grey’s Anatomy]. They’re pretty good natured in tearing me down and keeping me in line with practical jokes and things like that. I’m glad I got into racing prior to the success of the show, but certainly the success of the show helps me with sponsorship. Supercuts® has been really great and I have a great relationship with Mazda and got to do the voiceovers for all their commercials.”

For Sunday’s 45-minute MX-5 Cup race, Dempsey will step behind the wheel of the No. 29 AutismSpeaks.org/Team MER MX-5. As a parent of three children, the mission of Autism awareness is easy for Dempsey to identify with.

“We’re seeing more cases of Autism being diagnosed and we don’t know where it’s coming from or why it’s happening, especially more in boys. I have two young sons and it’s certainly a concern of mine. I think for anyone who’s a parent and anyone who has to go through this, it’s a difficult thing, but there’s a lot of help out there now that wasn’t there before. The big thing is to be aware and watch your newborn, talk to your doctor and educate yourself about it. That’s why it’s great to be a part of Autism Speaks.”

“We’re really happy that Patrick has agreed to drive the Autism Speaks car,” Team MER representative Marc Miller said. “Ever since my son was diagnosed it’s been a passion of mine. Thankfully with the support of the team we can provide some exposure to the organization and what they’re doing and having Patrick driving the car is an added boost to the whole program.”

Dempsey will return to MX-5 Cup competition, September 20 – 22, at Miller Motorsports Park for the series finale. The Salt Lake City, Utah road course was the site of Dempsey’s MX-5 Cup debut last year.

All the latest news from Round Seven of the MX-5 Cup, including live timing and lap notes can be found at www.mx-5cup.com. Sunday’s race is scheduled to go green at 9:20 a.m. (EDT). Every MX-5 Cup race will be broadcast on SPEED, dates and times TBD.

For more information about Autism Speaks visit www.autismspeaks.org

Attached image: Patrick Dempsey with the No. 29 AutismSpeaks.org/Team MER Mazda MX-5 at Trois-Rivieres in Quebec.
Credit: Juha Lievonen

Posted On 8/18/07

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Saini Fastest in Second MX-5 Cup Practice at Trois-Rivieres

Fri, 17 Aug 2007 03:41:56 PST

Saini Fastest in Second MX-5 Cup Practice at Trois-Rivieres
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TROIS-RIVIERES, Que. (Aug. 17, 2007) – Current series point leader Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, was the fastest car in practice for Round Seven of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup, part of the Grand Prix de Trois-Rivieres. Todd Buras, of Melbourne, Fla., was second fastest, followed by Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash.

Saini’s times improved throughout the day as the driver of the No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/SafeRacer.com MX-5 wasted no time in his charge to clinch the 2007 MX-5 Cup Championship at Trois-Rivieres. Saini set the fastest time of the day in the afternoon session, turning a lap of 1:17.134 (70.988 mph) around the 11-turn, 1.521-mile temporary street course.

“Trois-Rivieres is fantastic,” Saini said. “It’s the true street circuit experience. It’s bumpy, slippery and tight with walls everywhere. The team’s been working really hard on getting the cars back together. We had a bit of a break, but it feels good to be back at the track.”

Saini admitted that with only one more round after Trois-Rivieres, the Championship was on his mind, but he couldn’t let it affect his driving.

“I’m looking for good results, but I know that when you change your focus and try to be conservative, it’ll get you into trouble. I’m just approaching this as any other race, trying to get the pole and trying to get the win. I’m not going to take any crazy risks, but I’m also going to approach it like any other race.”

Driving the No. 56 BSI/Team Garcia/MOMO/JoeGibbs MX-5, Buras finished the day second, stopping the clocks with a 1:17.870 (70.317 mph). Caddell, who is not only Saini’s teammate, but his closest Championship rival, ended the day third on the time sheets. The 19 year-old turned a lap of 1:18.308 (69.923 mph) in his No. 30 Team MER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5.

Matt Cross, of Folsom, Calif., was fourth fastest in the No. 80 Hooverspeed/MobiTV MX-5, with a lap of 1:18.436 (69.809 mph). Jesse Combs, of Woodlands, Texas, completed the top five in his No. 7 Coolgas Ltd./Alara Racing MX-5, turning a lap of 1:18.475 (69.775 mph).

Ara Malkhassian, Brad McAllister, Pratt Cole, Mark Jenkins and Tim Probert completed the top ten.

Qualifying for Round Seven of the MX-5 Cup is set for 10:15 a.m. (EDT) Saturday. The race will take place Sunday at 9:20 a.m. (EDT). Live timing and lap notes are available at www.mx-5cup.com

Combined session results for Friday's SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup practice, part of the Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:17.134, 70.988.
2, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:17.870, 70.317.
3, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.308, 69.923.
4, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.436, 69.809.
5, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:18.475, 69.775.
6, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.598, 69.665.
7, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.660, 69.611.
8, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 1:18.707, 69.569.
9, (22), Mark Jenkins, McKinney, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:18.708, 69.568.
10, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:18.733, 69.546.
11, (58), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.763, 69.520.
12, (19), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.799, 69.488.
13, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.939, 69.365.
14, (24), Forest Barber, Forth Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:18.988, 69.322.
15, (47), Mike Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:19.066, 69.253.
16, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:19.201, 69.135.
17, (29), Patrick Dempsey, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:19.515, 68.862.
18, (25), Donnie Barnes, Chapel Hill, N.C., Mazda MX-5, 1:19.889, 68.540.
19, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 1:19.909, 68.523.
20, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:20.030, 68.419.
21, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 1:20.160, 68.308.
22, (21), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:20.314, 68.177.
23, (5), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:20.434, 68.075.
24, (01), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:20.569, 67.961.
25, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 1:20.572, 67.959.
26, (57), Mike Gatto, Cumming, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 1:20.663, 67.882.
27, (54), Brad Adams, New Orleans, La., MX-5, 1:20.872, 67.707.
28, (83), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:22.089, 66.703.
29, (08), Ed Brown, Henderson, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.583, 61.813.

Image: Jason Saini leads a pack in practice at Trois-Rivieres in his No. 28 MX-5.
Credit: Juha Lievonen

Posted On 8/17/07

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Saini Leads Morning MX-5 Cup Practice at Trois-Rivieres

Fri, 17 Aug 2007 11:25:21 PST

Saini Leads Morning MX-5 Cup Practice at Trois-Rivieres
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TROIS-RIVIERES, Que. (Aug. 17, 2007) – Current point leader Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, topped the first of two practice sessions for Round Seven of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup, part of the Grand Prix de Trois-Rivieres. Todd Buras, of Melbourne, Fla., was second fastest, followed by Matt Cross, of Folsom, Calif.

Saini wasted no time in his charge to clinch the 2007 MX-5 Cup Championship at Trois-Rivieres, turning a lap of 1:17.209 (70.919 mph) around the 11-turn, 1.521-mile temporary street course.

“Trois-Rivieres is fantastic,” Saini said. “It’s the true street circuit experience. It’s bumpy, slippery and tight with walls everywhere. The team’s been working really hard on getting the cars back together. We had a bit of a break, but it feels good to be back at the track.”

The driver of the No. 28 AutobarnMazda/SafeRacer.com admitted that with only one more round after Trois-Rivieres, the Championship was on his mind, but he couldn’t let it affect his driving.

“I’m looking for good results, but I know that when you change your focus and try to be conservative, it’ll get you into trouble. I’m just approaching this as any other race, trying to get the pole and trying to get the win. I’m not going to take any crazy risks, but I’m also going to approach it like any other race.”

Driving the No. 56 BSI/Team Garcia/MOMO/JoeGibbs MX-5, Buras finished the session in second, stopping the clocks with a 1:17.870 (70.317 mph). Cross, in the No. 80 Hooverspeed/MobiTV MX-5 completed the top three, putting in a lap of 1:18.559 (69.700 mph).

Currently sitting third in the Championship, Ara Malkhassian, of Sonoma, Calif., finished the session in fourth with a time of 1:18.598 (69.66 mph) in the No. 11 Alara Racing MX-5. Pratt Cole, of Salt Lake City, Utah, completed the top five in his No. 88 DEX/Western Companies MX-5, turning a lap of 1:18.707 (69.569 mph).

Tim Probert, Bob Michaelian, John Kuitwaard, Andrew Caddell and Brad McAllister completed the top ten.

The second practice session of the day is scheduled to begin at 4:10 p.m. (EDT). Qualifying will begin at 10:15 a.m. (EDT) on Saturday. Live timing and lap notes are available at www.mx-5cup.com

Results from practice session 1 for Friday's SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Seven, part of the Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:17.209, 70.919.
2, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:17.870, 70.317.
3, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.559, 69.700.
4, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.598, 69.665.
5, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 1:18.707, 69.569.
6, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:18.733, 69.546.
7, (19), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.799, 69.488.
8, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.939, 69.365.
9, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 1:18.996, 69.315.
10, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:19.090, 69.232.
11, (22), Mark Jenkins, McKinney, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:19.203, 69.133.
12, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:19.213, 69.125.
13, (24), Forest Barber, Forth Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:19.253, 69.090.
14, (58), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:19.264, 69.080.
15, (25), Donnie Barnes, Chapel Hill, N.C., Mazda MX-5, 1:19.895, 68.535.
16, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 1:19.909, 68.523.
17, (29), Patrick Dempsey, Los Angeles, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:19.916, 68.517.
18, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 1:20.160, 68.308.
19, (21), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:20.314, 68.177.
20, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:20.444, 68.067.
21, (54), Brad Adams, New Orleans, La., MX-5, 1:21.347, 67.311.
22, (57), Mike Gatto, Cumming, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 1:21.515, 67.173.
23, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:21.518, 67.170.
24, (83), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:22.089, 66.703.
25, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 1:22.769, 66.155.
26, (47), Mike Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:22.903, 66.048.
27, (01), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:27.020, 62.923.
28, (5), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, no time.
29, (08), Ed Brown, Henderson, Nev., Mazda MX-5, no time.

Attached image: The No. 28 MX-5 of Jason Saini on the streets of Trois-Rivieres
Credit: Juha Lievonen

Posted On 8/17/07

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USTCC: Strom Makes it Three in a Row in USTCC at Thunderhill

Thu, 16 Aug 2007 10:59:52 PST

USTCC: Strom Makes it Three in a Row in USTCC at Thunderhill
By Rick Nannini, United States Touring Car Championship

Wednesday, August 15, 2007 -- Brett Strom managed to score another win in his quest to win the Hankook United States Touring Car Championship title at Thunderhill Raceway in Willows, California on August 12, 2007 in the SLR International BMW 328i. The points leader, Curt Simmons, is not making things easy as he finished second in the Sunnyvale Dodge SRT-4. Making it to the podium in his first USTCC race was Michael McColligan in the Racing Beat/Mazdatrix Mazda RX8.

Strom is a rookie and also managed to win the A’Pex Integration Top Rookie award. Strom has the Rookie of the Year honors pretty much in the bag but he is not satisfied with that. Strom can be more compared with another rookie sensation, Formula 1’s Lewis Hamilton. Just like the young British rookie, Strom has managed to be on the podium at every race. Had he not missed the first few races, he would have certainly been in much better shape in the championship.

Strom started from pole position with a good start in his rear wheel drive BMW. He led going into Turn 1 and looked like he was going to disappear into the sunset but Simmons was not giving up and kept the pressure. A full course yellow allowed the gap between the two to close and when the green flag waved with two laps to go, Simmons was ready to attack. At Turn 14, Simmons got a run on Strom and Strom took the inside to protect his line. Simmons was not bothered one bit. He simply made an impossible pass on the outside look easy and with one lap to go was leading the race. Strom was behind the most powerful car in the series and needed to make a move quickly. He retaliated by attacking the horsepower of the Dodge with the excellent brakes of the BMW. He made a great pass under braking at Turn 1 but it almost cost him dearly as he missed the apex and ran wide on the exit. But he remained calm and did not lose any time. McColligan was a little further back at the finish but was still very excited to be on the podium in a car that has seen little testing.

The man who is currently leading the championship is Simmons who has also had a pretty spectacular year. Last year he had some problems which slowed him down and caused problems. This year he has had zero problems and that has equaled championship points. In this race, he extended his lead over second place by six points.

Posted On 8/16/07

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Debut Podium For MC Racing In USTCC

Wed, 15 Aug 2007 11:08:04 PST

Debut Podium For MC Racing In USTCC
By Michael McColligan, MC Racing

August 12, 2007 – Willows, California -- Michael McColligan driving the #36 Mazdatrix/Racing Beat MC Racing Mazda RX8 finished on the podium in his United States Touring Car Championship debut. McColligan steadily improved his pace throughout the weekend qualifying on the second row. He held his own in his first standing-start pulling even with the second place Dodge going into turn 1. “I did not have the pace to run with the front two cars so I settled into my race pace once I had a good gap over 4th”, added McColligan. Unfortunately a full course caution bunched the field back up and created a little more drama before the end of the race. “There was some interesting driving going on with the lapped cars”, added McColligan as he tried to stay out of trouble and bring the car home. “A podium and a trouble free weekend with a brand new car and my debut in the series was more than I could have hoped for and I am extremely happy and grateful to my team and sponsors”, summed-up McColligan on his weekend.

The MC Racing Team goes back to work to further develop the RX8 and see if they can extract some more pace before the next USTCC Round, October 13-14 at Buttonwillow Raceway Park.

MC Racing 2007 Sponsors
Mazdatrix www.mazdatrix.com
Racing Beat www.racingbeat.com
Mazda USA/Mazdaspeed www.mazdausa.com
Bell Racing www.bellracing.com
TCSportline www.tcsportline.com
Konig Wheels www.konigwheels.com

Technical Partners
Performance Solutions www.hillperformancesolutions.com
Eibach Springs www.eibach.com
Yaw Power Products www.yawpower.com

Contact Information
Michael McColligan (818) 207-9718 mc@mcspeedracer.com

Posted On 8/15/07

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Rookie Mcgaha Takes Salt Lake City ProSolo Victory

Wed, 15 Aug 2007 09:49:37 PST

Rookie Mcgaha Takes Salt Lake City ProSolo Victory
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOOELE, Utah (Aug. 15, 2007) – It was a day of firsts at the Salt Lake City ProSolo, where Brian Mcgaha, of Boise, Idaho, was victorious in his debut Tire Rack® SCCA ProSolo event, held for the first time at Miller Motorsports Park.

Piloting a Treasure Homes/Big O Tire Mitsubishi Evo, Megaha narrowly missed out on the A Stock win by 0.006-second to Larry Hull, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, in a Chevrolet Corvette, but did qualify for the Hawk Super Challenge in the process. There, under the intense Utah sun, Mcgaha literally withstood the heat and topped the C Street Prepared Mazda MX-5 of Ron Bauer, from Issaquah, Wash., to take the Super Challenge win in his first attempt.

Jim Harnish, of Prescott Valley, Ariz., made his way to the Hawk Super Challenge via a Bump Class 2 win in his F Street Prepared Honda Civic. Although his Super Challenge journey ended in the second round, Harnish did walk away with the Honda Hot Shoe Award.

The Ladies Challenge win went to Amy Coleman, of Renton, Wash. Driving the same Subaru WRX that took her husband Karl to the Street Touring® X class win, Coleman earned her Ladies Challenge spot with a victory in Ladies Class 2, beating the Mazda Miata of Kathy Wolfskill, from Nederland, Colo.

The Bonus Challenge was won by Salt Lake City’s own John Cary in a BMW M5.

Unique, but not new to ProSolo, was the use of the single-course format, which was put into play for the third time this season. Although it was the last single-course ProSolo for 2007, the format is expected to make a return to select events in 2008.

“The Utah event, along with the New York event a few weeks ago, has allowed us to fine tune the procedures and equipment to support this new format for ProSolo,” SCCA Vice President of Solo and Rally Howard Duncan said. “With facilities that can adequately support the conventional two-course format becoming more scarce and expensive, the single-course format will provide us with another option to allow us to have a full schedule when the ProSolo National Series returns in 2008.”

In class competition at Miller Motorsports Park, Super Challenge runner-up Bauer and Jim Daniels, of Gladstone, Ore., recreated the El Toro ProSolo finish in C Street Prepared. Sharing a Kumho/Pinnacle Mazda/Fordahl Motorsports Mazda MX-5, Bauer outpaced Daniels by a mere 0.025-second for the class win.

Super Stock was another close finish, where Jason Munchof, of San Diego, Calif., in a Lotus Elise edged the Jim’s Detail Shop/Evolution Schools Chevrolet Corvette Z06 of Kevin Dietz, from Federal Way, Wash., by a slim 0.065-second.

The husband and wife team of Keith and Kristi Brown, of Des Moines, Wash., swept G Stock in their K&K Racing/Team BH/Jim’s Detail Shop Mini Cooper S. Keith managed to stop the clocks 0.405-second quicker than Kristi for the win.

Next up on the schedule is the Packwood ProSolo, August 25, the last ProSolo event of the season before the 2007 ProSolo finale at Heartland Park Topeka, September 21-22. For more information, including full results from the Salt Lake City ProSolo visit the Solo Pages of www.scca.com.

Attached image: Rookie Brian Mcgaha was the big winner at the Salt Lake City ProSolo
Credit: Carolyn Rashband

Posted On 8/15/07

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Defending GT-1 Champ Simms Tests New Heartland Park Configuration

Tue, 14 Aug 2007 01:56:39 PST

Defending GT-1 Champ Simms Tests New Heartland Park Configuration
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (Aug. 14, 2007) – Defending SCCA GT-1 Class National Champion Philip Simms, of Orlando, Fla., got a sneak preview Monday and Tuesday of the newly-reconfigured Heartland Park Topeka road course that will host not only this weekend’s Kaw Valley Race Group SCCA National race weekend, but October’s 44th Annual SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T, billed as the Pinnacle of American Motorsports.

In a two-day private test, Simms put his 600-plus horsepower Jaguar XKR through its paces around the 2.5-mile circuit, and was pleased with the reconfigured Turns One, Two, Eight and Nine.

“The changes are real fast,” Simms said. “Everybody that wanted a high-speed track—they’ve got one now. It’s fun. I think everybody will like it.

“Going into turn 10, I’d say we’re going 15-20 mph faster than before. Into turn three, I’m a whole gear up from before, so you’re looking at 25-30 mph.

“The changes are totally different than any other corners I can think of. Going into nine, it’s blind. After you do it a couple of times, you know what’s going to be on the other side. It’s kind of like coming over the hill at Road Atlanta in that sense. You know where you’ve got to be and know what you’ve got to do and just do it, because it’s totally blind.”

Simms noted that with changes, sometimes come compromise.

“You give up two passing zones. I can go into Turn One so fast that nobody can pass me and the same is the case back in what used to be the bus stop [Turn Eight]. Turns Three and 10 will be better passing zones, though.”

Simms felt that the new Turn Eight-Nine complex was a gut check, where ultimate speed will combine both skill and bravery.

“You can run flat out right up to the hump, which is about where the new track rejoins the old track. That’s pretty deep. You brake, turn in and get back on the gas and the car just slides in a four-wheel drift.”

In 2006, the course featured primarily slow to medium-speed corner sections, something Simms, and many drivers were not accustomed to.

“Last year, when I came here, it was real humbling, because I’d never run anything this tight,” he said. “If you don’t figure out how to get your speed through these tight corners, you’re slow.

“I think there are a lot of drivers that are going to like the changes, because it’s got something that’s gonna scare them a little bit.”

From what the team has seen in the private testing, the course may be as much as five or six seconds faster, depending on the car type and class.

When asked simply if he felt the changes were fun, Simms was quick with a smile and response.

“Oh yea.”

This weekend’s KVRG SCCA National event, the final race of the year in Kansas before more than 600 drivers converge on Heartland Park Topeka for October’s SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T, will have qualifying sessions on Saturday, with racing all day Sunday. Tickets are available at the gate, and are $10 for adults with discounts for military and seniors. Admission for children under 12 is free.

Attached image: 2006 SCCA GT-1 National Champion Phillip Simms at Heartland Park Topeka.
Credit: ©SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 8/14/07

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24 Hours of LeMons: August News

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 10:26:31 PST

24 Hours of LeMons: August News
By Jay Lamm, Chief Perpetrator

Next LeMons Entry Deadline: 15 August

You're probably thinking "Dammit: If the October race is full, I'll have to drink a quart of Pennzoil and drive my car into a bridge abutment right here at home." Well, fear not: There's one week left to submit your Team Entry form for the 24 Hours of LeMons Arse-Freeze-Apalooza (a.k.a., the 20-21 October race at Altamont Motorsports Park). We don't pick the grid until after the final deadline--so, get your application in by the 15th, and you've still got the same shot as everyone else. The form can be downloaded here.

Detroit Race to Run 24 Hours Straight

The 24 Hours of LeMons isn't usually 24 hours: It's usually 14 or 15, with a late-night break between sessions. Why? Because whenever some self-satisfied pinhead builds his McMansion right next to a racetrack, he's shocked--shocked!--to find people actually racing there; next thing you know, he's waddled down to the County Commissioner to zone the place out of business. So think about it: Interrupt this clown's 12:30 a.m. rerun of M*A*S*H, and he calls out the National Guard.

Flat Rock Speedway, home to the 24 Hours of LeMons: Detroit (on 29-30 September), is different. The Township of Flat Rock subscribes to the radical notion that racetracks should be raced on. Thus, we can run 2:00 pm Saturday straight through to 2:00 pm Sunday. It'll be the ultimate test of not-so-bright man and totally-crappy machine: Check it out.

In fact, check it out and take notes. Because from about 2:00 a.m. until breakfast, I plan to be sawing logs back at the Flat Rock Days Inn. Stay up for 24 hours? Forget that.

Jay Lamm, Chief Perpetrator

24 HOURS OF LeMONS

Posted On 8/8/07

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Appeals Count Upholds Watkins Glen SPEED Touring Car Incident Ruling

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 10:46:00 PST

Appeals Count Upholds Watkins Glen SPEED Touring Car Incident Ruling
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (Aug. 8, 2007) – An SCCA Pro Racing Court of Appeals convened and has upheld the initial protest court’s decision regarding the incident between drivers Jeff Altenburg and Pierre Kleinubing during Round Five of the 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship held at Watkins Glen International.

Altenburg was fined 10 drivers’ points and Mazda one manufacturers’ point for contact with Kleinubing. Altenburg appealed the decision, which was heard per the SCCA Pro Racing Regulations. The decision was rendered Monday, Aug. 6.

For current point standings, please visit www.world-challenge.com.

Attached image: No. 72 Tri-Point Motorsports Mazda 6 of Jeff Altenburg
Credit: ©SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 8/8/07

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SCCA: Who Will Win the 2007 Runoffs Road Trip Challenge?

Mon, 06 Aug 2007 01:53:08 PST

SCCA: Who Will Win the 2007 Runoffs Road Trip Challenge?
By Erin Cechal, SCCA

TOPEKA, Kan. (August 6, 2007) This year, the Sports Car Club of America Region that produces the most first-time visitors to the SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka will win the 2007 Runoffs Road Trip Challenge. With little more than two months before all transporters point to Topeka, four Regions from opposite points of the country are in a tight battle at the top of the scoreboard.

The San Francisco Region currently leads the field with 12 new attendees, which accounts for more than half of its total Runoffs entries. The Colorado, Florida and Washington D.C. Regions are close behind with nine new attendees each. It's fair to say the contest is up in the air however, since it won't take much for any Region to surge ahead and take hold of the lead.

The Region that wins the Runoffs Road Trip Challenge will receive a trophy and all drivers and volunteers from that Region will receive a patch and have their 2008 National SCCA Dues waived.

Last year's Runoffs Road Trip Challenge was won by the region that sent the most drivers and volunteers total, with the Washington D.C. region taking the inaugural honors.

If you're on the fence about making the trip to Topeka for the first time this year, make the jump and win one for your Region! Register for the 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T at www.scca.com. Visit the Runoffs event page for more information about the Road Trip Challenge.

Posted On 8/6/07

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Win a 2008 Audi TT Coupe

Sat, 04 Aug 2007 02:15:55 PST

Win a 2008 Audi TT Coupe
By Janet Strube, ACNA

Win a 2008 Audi TT Coupe in the Audi Club North America Raffle 2007. The deadline is September 7, 2007 and you need not be present to win!

The winner will be announced on September 14, 2007.

First ticket selected wins a 2008 Audi TT Coupe or $12,000* cash. $12,000* will be awarded if less than 2000 tickets are sold.

Click Here to Download the Entry Form (PDF format)

1. No person under the age of 18 may purchase a raffle ticket or receive any prize.

2. The price of a raffle ticket is $25. There is no limit to the number of raffle tickets a person may purchase.

3. A person does not need to be present at the raffle drawing to be eligible for the prize drawing.

4. All checks/money orders/credit cards must be payable in U.S. funds only.

5. The winner of a vehicle must accept delivery of vehicle within 90 days of written notification or prize is forfeited. The winner will be notified by telephone (order invalid without telephone number included).

6. All applicable taxes, including any luxury taxes, are the responsibility of the winner based on the retail or cash value of the prize. License and all fees are the responsibility of the winner. $12,000 will be awarded if less than 2000 tickets are sold. $12,000 is maximum cash prize allowable per Minnesota laws governing non-profit raffles. If a cash prize is awarded, winner of the cash prize will receive the prize amount less required Federal tax withholding of approximately 28%.

7. Ticket sales will be limited to 5000. Odds of winning a vehicle or cash will be based on the actual number of tickets sold.

8. Winning ticket cannot be assigned, transferred or sold. Vehicles will be titled in winner's name only and cannot be changed.

9. Board Members and paid staff of Audi Club North America, and their household members may not participate in the raffle.

10. Results of the drawing will be certified at Shavlik Financial Certified, Public Accountants, 1865 West Wayzata Boulevard, Suite 206, Long Lake, MN 55356. Drawing will be held on September 14, 2007 at 12:00 pm at that location.

11. The winner will be selected from the container in which the purchased ticket stubs for the prize shall be mixed and drawn. Each ticket will have an equal chance of being drawn.

12. This offer is void where prohibited by law.

13. Tickets will remain on sale until September 7, 2007 or when 5,000 tickets are sold whichever happens first.

14. Results will be posted on ACNA website, www.audiclubna.org and printed in the quattro quarterly.

15. The Minnesota raffle license number is X-35052-07-001

16. Raffle vehicles are built to USDOT specifications and must be delivered through a U.S. dealership.

17. The entire net proceeds of this raffle shall be devoted exclusively to the lawful purposes of Audi Club North America.

Posted On 8/4/07

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Nominations Sought for SCCA Solo's Highest Honors

Fri, 03 Aug 2007 02:42:28 PST

Nominations Sought for SCCA Solo's Highest Honors
By Erin Cechal, SCCA

TOPEKA, Kan. (August 3, 2007) This year, the presentation of Solo's three highest awards returns to their traditional venue, The Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Championships. Nominations are currently being accepted for the Solo Cup, Driver of Eminence and The Johnson Spirit of the Sport Awards.

The Solo Cup is for the SCCA member who has made an outstanding contribution to the Solo Events Program and is selected by the Solo Events Board. Past recipients include Kathy Barnes, T.C. Kline and Rocky Entriken.

Each year the Solo Events Board also chooses a Solo Driver of Eminence for the driver who has consistently demonstrated excellence behind the wheel and an exemplary degree of sportsmanship, dedication and unselfishness. Previous winners include the likes of Bob and Patty Tunnell, Tom Bootz, Bill Goodale and John Ames.

The Solo Events Board is taking nominations for both the Solo Cup and Driver of Eminence through August 20. Nominations can be emailed to seb@scca.com or sent to the SCCA National office at P.O. Box 19400, Topeka, KS 66619. Presentation for the two awards will take place at Wednesday's Tire Rack Solo National Championship Awards Banquet.

Celebrating the lighter side of Solo, The Johnson Spirit of the Sport Award is for the Solo community member who brings the spirit of fun and camaraderie to their fellow members. It is named after its inaugural recipient Roger E. Johnson. The winner is selected and presented by the previous three recipients, a.k.a, the Royal Order of Sheep. This year's trio includes Team Underdog, Howard Duncan and Scotty B. White. In keeping with the theme of the award, it is presented during Monday night's Kumho Kapers Kickoff Party.

More information on these awards and a list of previous winners can be found in the Solo Rulebook, which is posted at www.scca.com.

All awards will be ceremoniously re-presented again at the 2008 SCCA National Convention, February 7 9, in San Antonio, Texas.

Attached image: Heyward Wagner accepts the Johnson Spirit of the Sport Award for Team Underdog at the 2007 SCCA Convention.

Posted On 8/3/07

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BimmerWorld: Joey Hand Mid-Ohio In-Car Race Win Highlights

Fri, 03 Aug 2007 02:38:33 PST

BimmerWorld: Joey Hand Mid-Ohio In-Car Race Win Highlights
By Bimmerworld Media Services

Bimmerworld Media Services -- On the heels of BimmerWorld's historic first win in SPEED Touring Car series, the first professional win for the new BMW 3-series (E90) chassis in North America, and Joey Hand's win in his first attempt in the series, we wanted to share with you a compilation of Joey's best in-car footage from the thrilling Mid-Ohio event.

With 50 minutes of footage to choose from, it was hard to choose what to cut! We've pared the footage down to 15 minutes, and as you'll see, the BimmerWorld BMW, Joey, and his competitors fight for every inch and every pass.

Rather than tell you about all of the teeth-clenching highlights, watch the video below to witness one of the great drives in recent years of World Challenge racing.

Courtesy Bimmerworld Media Services

Posted On 8/3/07

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ACNA Frank Beddor Nationals - Oct 4th thru 7th at Infineon Raceway

Fri, 03 Aug 2007 02:21:12 PST

ACNA Frank Beddor Nationals - Oct 4th thru 7th at Infineon Raceway
By VIkki Leary, ACNA

DON'T FORGET TO JOIN US AT THE AUDI CLUB NORTH AMERICA 23RD ANNUAL FRANK BEDDOR NATIONALS IN SONOMA, CA!

Audi Club North America presents the 23rd Annual Frank Beddor Nationals, hosted by the Golden Gate Chapter at the world renowned Infineon Raceway in Sonoma California, October 4th thru October 7th.

Come join us for what is shaping up to be the "Ultimate October" for Audi Club members across the country! The Golden Gate Chapter has secured an unprecedented Early Fall Weekend Date at one of the most challenging road courses in the country! Infineon Raceway is located 30 minutes north of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and serves as the gateway to the beautiful Sonoma Wine Country.

We have put together an exciting array of events to participate in during Nationals week and we encourage everyone and their Audi to come and experience one of the most exciting and picturesque seasons anywhere in California.

For schedules, detailed information, and registration visit our detailed information and schedule page.

Posted On 8/3/07

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Audi Club Golden Gate Hosts Frank Beddor Nationals And Sonoma Wine Tour

Thu, 02 Aug 2007 02:26:41 PST

Audi Club Golden Gate Hosts Frank Beddor Nationals And Sonoma Wine Tour
By Kenny Gorman, ACNA Golden Gate

AUDI CLUB NORTH AMERICA 23RD ANNUAL FRANK BEDDOR NATIONALS
Sonoma CA
OCTOBER 04, 2007 - OCTOBER 07, 2007

Nationals are coming! Register early as slots are going to fill up.

Audi Club North America presents the 23rd Annual Frank Beddor Nationals, hosted by the Golden Gate Chapter at the world renowned Infineon Raceway in Sonoma California, October 4th thru October 7th.

Come join us for what is shaping up to be the "Ultimate October" for Audi Club members across the country! The Golden Gate Chapter has secured an unprecedented Early Fall Weekend Date at one of the most challenging road courses in the country! Infineon Raceway is located 30 minutes north of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and serves as the gateway to the beautiful Sonoma Wine Country.

We have put together an exciting array of events to participate in during Nationals week and we encourage everyone and their Audi to come and experience one of the most exciting and picturesque seasons anywhere in California.

http://www.audiclubgoldengate.org/index.php?page=events&event=220

SECOND ANNUAL "MOTHER OF ALL WINE TOURS"
Sierra Foothills, CA
AUGUST 25, 2007

Join other fellow Audi Club members for the "Mother of all Wine tours". You have been to Napa and you have been to Sonoma, now venture out for something different. On Saturday August 25th the Golden Gate Audi Club has put together a tour of several Sierra Foothills wineries. The roads leading to the wineries look as if they were designed by Audi engineers as roads for pure driving enjoyment. The wineries in the Shenandoah Valley, Fair Play, and El Dorado County are known for their craftsmanship and passion for making some of the finest "Old Vine" Zinfandels in the world. When you couple great driving roads, great wineries, Audis, and a group of people who know how to enjoy the mixyou can imagine what a great day it is going to be.

http://www.audiclubgoldengate.org/index.php?page=events&event=218

Posted On 8/2/07

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McClintock Gets First Super Challenge Win, Completes Honda Sweep

Wed, 01 Aug 2007 10:04:33 PST

McClintock Gets First Super Challenge Win, Completes Honda Sweep
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

Toledo, Ohio (August 1, 2007) Honda drivers continued to shine in the latest round of The Tire Rack SCCA ProSolo in Toledo, Ohio, sweeping all of the Challenge rounds and giving Jeremiah McClintock his first Hawk Super Challenge win.

McClintock, of Commerce Township, Mich., earned his spot in the Hawk Super Challenge after finishing runner-up in the largest F125 ProSolo field in recent memory, with 17 entrants, second only to A Stock with 18. As fate would have it, it was AS winner Matthew Braun, of Northville, Mich., driving a PowerPlug Honda S2000 who McClintock outpaced in a Honda-powered Renspeed to win his first Hawk Super Challenge. Their battle dispelled the popular myth that being in a smaller class with a padded dial-in is the only way to win the Hawk Super Challenge.

After beating Andy Hollis, of Austin, Texas, to make his way to the final eliminator round of the Hawk Super Challenge, Braun had to face Hollis again in the final face-off of the Honda Tuner Challenge. This time Hollis and his Soulspeed/PowerCurveDyno Honda Civic Si got the better of Braun and took home the Honda Hot Shoe Award.

Kristin Tipple, of Galloway, Ohio, was impressive in her ProSolo debut. Piloting a Honda Civic, Tipple placed third in Ladies 2 and beat out Solo ace Cara Ness, of Medfield, Mass., in a Fun Hondas Racing Honda Civic Si, to win the Ladies Challenge.

Nathan Whipple, of Marlborough, Mass., completed the Honda Challenge sweep by winning the Bonus Challenge in an Street Touring S Rallydecals.com/Fun Hondas Racing Honda Civic Si. Whipple beat out the Street Modified Mini Cooper S of Jason Alexander, from Grafton, Ohio, for the win.

Winner of the SM class, Andrew Lieber, of Bay City, Mich., had more to celebrate than his victory at Toledo, as it was his birthday as well. The perfect present for the Showcase Cars Inc. Mitsubishi Evo driver was his teammate, Jarrod Hoops, of Midland Mich., finishing second.

Ian Baker, of Herndon, Va., celebrated his second Street Touring S2 win in-a-row. Driving a Honda CRX, Baker topped the Honda CRX of Jason Ruggles, from Margate, Fla., by 0.359-second for the win.

F Stock had a spirited battle between the Ford Shelby Mustangs of Marcus Merideth, Sam Strano, Kevin Youngers and Michael Snyder. The Margrave Motorsports Mustang of Merideth, from Westland, Mich., finished 0.132-second ahead of Strano and his Strano Performance Parts Mustang. Showing the true sprit of Solo, Strano, from Knoxdale, Pa., would miss the Hawk Super Challenge however, giving up his spot to help a fellow competitor with a damaged vehicle get home.

For full results from the Toledo ProSolo, visit the event page at www.scca.com

The penultimate round of the 2007 Tire Rack SCCA ProSolo season is just around the corner. For the first time ever, the series heads to Miller Motorsports Park for the Salt Lake City ProSolo, August 25, where the new single-course format will be used that was so well received by newcomers at the Finger Lakes ProSolo.

Attached image: Hawk Super Challenge Winner Jeremiah McClintock
Credit: Jennifer Merideth

Posted On 8/1/07

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Round Two of the AGT Southern Tour Promises Hot Racing Action

Tue, 31 Jul 2007 10:13:31 PST

Round Two of the AGT Southern Tour Promises Hot Racing Action
By Tony Febles

July 27, 2007 -- The ground pounding V8 powered, tube chassis, composite bodied American sports cars of the American GT Professional Road Racing Association take to the world famous 3.7 mile, 17 turn concrete and asphalt "long course" permanent road circuit of Sebring International Raceway in "The Shoot-Out At Sebring" on August 11 12, 2007 in Sebring Florida as Round Two of the Southern Tour and Round Five of the Inter-America's Grand Championship Points Series. These fire-breathing normally aspirated engines put out upwards of 800 horsepower and the cars are capable of reaching speeds in excess of 200 mph as top AGT series drivers from across the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic battle it out wheel to wheel door to door in quest of taking the checkered flag.

Well known race car driver Tony Ave of North Carolina throws his hat into the ring as he is signed up to make his debut in the AGT in Sebring driving the Tony Ave / Bebee Racing C6 Corvette that Tony built for Bebee in his N.C. race shop. Ave has been tearing up the SCCA National GT1 circuit with this car over the past few months and has clearly stated his intentions in entering the Shoot-Out At Sebring "I am coming to win" he said. Current AGT series leader is Edison Lluch Jr of Puerto Rico driving the Coors Light Corvette for the El Tuque racing Team a family effort of father Edison Sr in the Don Q Rum Corvette and son Edison Jr. The elder Lluch, Edison Sr is a two time series champion and is this year's defending champion while his son, following in his father's footsteps is currently leading this year's championship points hunt. Over the past few seasons the Lluch's have shown dominance in winning, now with the series running the Southern Tour and the entry of new teams and drivers is this soon to change? There is only one way to find out and that is to wait for the green flag to drop on the Shoot-Out At Sebring and see who can capture the win will it be a continued show of strength from the El Tuque team under the Puerto Rican flag, or will it be on of the new series teams entering under the flag of the Dominican, or will it be one of the racers competing under the colors of the red, white and blue as top teams from the United States all compete in this International racing competition for a series win.

Teams expected to compete include the father and son team of Ken and Jordan Bupp from the United States, Terry Giles and his Powerhouse Racing Team also from the United States, Edison Sr. and Edison Jr of Puerto Rico and Mark Shaffer of the United States. Also expected to take the green are Tony Ave of the U.S. and Jon Levy also running for the United States. Come out and cheer for your favorite team and stay tuned to www.AmericanGT.com for the latest news on the race.

Posted On 7/31/07

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SCCA Puts Out the Call for Yokohama Volunteer of the Year Nominations

Fri, 27 Jul 2007 01:45:44 PST

SCCA Puts Out the Call for Yokohama Volunteer of the Year Nominations
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (July 27, 2007) Twenty-five champions will be crowed at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T, but without volunteers, not a single Club Racing event would even be possible. Each year the SCCA honors those volunteers who go above and beyond the call of duty and is currently seeking nominations for those individuals deserving recognition at this year's National Championship Runoffs.

Since 1985, the SCCA has carefully selected a group of volunteers to present with Yokohama Advan Volunteer of the Year awards during the National Championship Runoffs at the conclusion of the Club Racing season. These individuals' roles range from registration to starter, but they all display dedication, enthusiasm and leadership throughout the year.

Nominations for the Yokohama Advan Volunteer of the Year can be submitted electronically on the Runoffs volunteer information page, via email to voy@scca.com or by post to: SCCA Attn: Volunteer of the Year, P.O. Box 19400 Topeka, KS 66619.

Attached image: Last year's Steward Volunteer of the Year, Tom Hoffman, won a trip to the 2007 24 Hours of Le Mans courtesy of Yokohama.
Credit: Yokohama

Posted On 7/27/07

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BimmerWorld SPEED Broadcast Reminder: TC Race is Shown Saturday; New Videos for You

Thu, 26 Jul 2007 01:39:07 PST

BimmerWorld SPEED Broadcast Reminder: TC Race is Shown Saturday; New Videos for You
By Bimmerworld Media Services

BimmerWorld Media Services - July 26, 2007 -- A reminder to watch BimmerWorld's glorious day in the hard-fought SPEED World Challenge Touring Car race from Mid-Ohio, in Lexington, Ohio. The race is broadcast Saturday, July 28, at 3:00 p.m. (EDT). Replays will air Tuesday, July 31, at 3:00 a.m. and Wednesday, August 1, at 2:00 p.m.

While new driver Joey Hand manages to recover from a slow start to eventually take the win in a thrilling last lap pass, picking off 4 cars throughout the 50 minute race, it's firmly believed that had his team mate Seth Thomas not encountered transmission difficulty at the start of the race from his 3rd place qualifying position, a BimmerWorld 1-2 was very realistic. Which one of the two drivers would have been first is up for debate!

Mid-Ohio marked BimmerWorld's first win in SPEED Touring Car competition, as well as making history by delivering the first professional racing win for the BMW 325i (E90) chassis. BimmerWorld's commitment to promoting the BMW brand in the top American touring car series is undeniable, and proudly undertaken by the entire team.

With a day until the race is aired, we've made two short videos for you to enjoy. The first is Seth Thomas' amazing qualifying lap, done at 7:20am on a Saturday morning. Just as most people were waking up, Seth was flying around the Mid-Ohio course at 140mph fighting for pole position!

Seth shared his experiences with us:

What was it like qualifying at 7:20 in the morning?

Early - very early Quite a bit ahead of my normal start of the day and you don't really have much time to "get up and moving". But honestly, with the weekend we were having, there was a lot of excitement so the 5:30 wakeup was really just pulling the trigger to launch another great day of racing.

Was the low sun an issue at all for sight lines or glare?

The sun wasn't an issue, but the track was very cool and it took some time for it to get up to normal operating temperature. Usually we would turn our fast lap 1-2 laps in, but this definitely made for a more exciting qualifying with the leaders constantly shuffling.

Tell us about the lap--how hard did you push?

I was pushing extremely hard! The track came on as the session went along and I was working hard to use the extra grip. Running with Joey at the end felt like guitarists trading licks - we were leapfrogging each other toward the front and almost had a BimmerWorld BMW front row until the last lap!

What parts of the track really suited the E90?

Mid Ohio has been an on and off for the BMWs. We have been working hard all season to really dial in the E90 BMW cars. At this point, we have really got it moving in the corners which are so important on a technical track like this one. And as always, Performance Friction gives us the strongest brakes in the field, which has been the cornerstone of our package since we built the cars.

Seth's video is here: BimmerWorld: Seth Thomas Mid-Ohio Qualifying Lap

BimmerWorld team driver Joey Hand spent a session with a camera over his right shoulder for us to see how he goes about driving a BMW. We can't show all of his secrets, but this final lap of practice does show how focused and committed he is to his driving. On previous laps, he's seen working a variety of data inputs, talking on the radio to the crew, changing his Motec dash page to get specific info he desires, and all while giving 100% behind the wheel. It's like watching someone juggle four chainsaws at the same time, and keeping them all in perfect balance and position. VERY impressive.

Joey's video is here: BimmerWorld: Joey Hand Overhead Camera: Mid-Ohio Practice

After the race has aired, we'll bring you some long and short versions of Joey Hand's thrilling in-car camera footage from the race.

BimmerWorld Media Services
mediaservices@bimmerworld.com

www.bimmerworld.com
www.bimmerworldracing.com
www.powerflexusa.com
Race Proven BMW Performance
877.639.9648

Check out our new BimmerWorld Video Channel on Brightcove.com

Posted On 7/26/07

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Chip Herr finishes 2nd at Mid-Ohio in SPEED World Challenge Touring

Thu, 26 Jul 2007 01:28:31 PST

Chip Herr finishes 2nd at Mid-Ohio in SPEED World Challenge Touring
By Chip Herr

Lexington, OH (July 22, 2007): Chip Herr nearly drove the tires off his #17 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Fred Baker Audi A4 at the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car race at Mid Ohio Sports Car Course, holding off all competitors until the last lap of the 27 lap race. Launching from second on the grid, Herr got a good start and had the lead going into Turn One. That is where he stayed until Turn Two of the final lap, when his overheating tires forced him wide allowing the trailing car just enough room to slip through. Herr pushed hard to regain the position throughout the last lap, but it was clear his tires were cooked and he smartly kept the car under control and finished in 2nd just 1.064 seconds behind the leader.

Commenting on the race Herr said, "I ran the car hard all race and tried to post consistent lap times. But toward the end, it was starting to slide around a little bit. When you've got competitive guys behind you, you can't just back off for three laps and then get back up to speed.

"On the last lap, I made a mistake in the Keyhole. I just got a little deep. I was modulating the brake pedal and just trying to keep from spinning the car and didn't get it turned in. He got a great run going out of the Keyhole and took advantage of what happened to me."

Herr's teammates saw lots of action as well. Ian Baas was forced to start from the back of the grid in 23rd position in his #18 STaSIS/Team Janica/Slivertrak Audi A4 after qualifying 7th when a technical infraction was found in post-qualifying inspection. Baas took it in stride, perhaps remembering his Toronto run from 2nd to 15th to 2nd. He showed once again, that he knows how to slice through a field. Baas improved his position throughout the race, finishing in 7th position, making up an incredible 16 positions.

After starting 7th on the grid, Adam Pecorari worked his #19 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Sewickley Audi A4 up to 6th early in the race. He got caught in some racing incidents falling back to 11th with 9 laps to go, then fought his way back to finish in 9th, his third top ten finish in five races.

STaSIS president Paul Lambert was pleased with his team's results, commenting, "I could not be prouder of crew. Getting cars on the track in every session this weekend and finishing with all three in the top ten is a fantastic accomplishment. I've particularly got to hand it to our crew chief Andrew Brennan- he is always a professional and it really showed this weekend."

Sunday's SPEED World Challenge round 7 at the Mid Ohio Sports Car Course will be aired on SPEED Saturday, July 28th at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time. STaSIS Motorsports will be in action again at Mosport on August 24th to 26th.

> More News at www.chipherr.com

Posted On 7/26/07

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SPEED World Challenge Mid-Ohio Races Air This Weekend

Thu, 26 Jul 2007 01:20:52 PST

SPEED World Challenge Mid-Ohio Races Air This Weekend
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (July 26, 2007) The Keyhole, Esses, Thunder Valley and Carousel of Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, produced some amazing road racing for Round Seven of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Championships. Both the SCCA SPEED GT and Touring Car races will air this Saturday on SPEED.

Joey Hand makes a breathtaking SCCA SPEED Touring Car debut in the No. 37 BimmerWorld BMW 325i. He may not get the rocket start that Chip Herr uses to grab the lead from polesitter Jeff Altenburg, but Hand catches and dices with the leaders like it was his plan the whole time. When the podium finishers can't stop talking about how much fun they had in the post-race interviews, you know it's going to be a good TV show. Catch it on SPEED Saturday, July 28, at 3:00 p.m. (EDT). Replays will air Tuesday, July 31, at 3:00 a.m. and Wednesday, August 1, at 2:00 p.m.

In SCCA SPEED GT, Eric Curran holds his breath for 29 laps, hoping his No. 30 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette will take him to his third win of the season without incident. He'll need to hold off a hard-charging Tommy Archer as the pair weave through traffic throughout much of the race, which airs at 4:00 p.m. (EDT) following the SCCA SPEED Touring Car race on SPEED, Saturday, July 28. The race will replay Tuesday, July 31, at 4:00 a.m. and Wednesday, August 1, at 3:00 p.m.

For more information visit www.world-challenge.com

Attached image: No. 37 BimmerWorld BMW 325i of Joey Hand leads the No. 72 Mazdaspeed Mazda 6 of Jeff Altenburg at Mid-Ohio.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 7/26/07

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Winner of Charity Motorsports Group BBK Give Away Announced!

Thu, 26 Jul 2007 12:15:19 PST

Winner of Charity Motorsports Group BBK Give Away Announced!
By Aaron Nichols, Charity Motorsports Group

Charity Motorsports Group would like to announce the winner of our Rotora BBK Give Away! Congratulations to fellow Fanatic, Thomas Frosell!. Thomas was chosen at random to receive a free Rotora front Big Brake Kit for his e36 BMW M3!!

Thomas, enjoy the brakes and thank you for your support!!

Stay tuned here for more details about Thomas and his plans for the BBK - www.charitymotorsports.org/RaffleBrakes.htm

Posted On 7/26/07

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SCCA Joins Forces with Tire Rack Street Survival to Save Young Lives

Thu, 26 Jul 2007 09:28:34 PST

SCCA Joins Forces with Tire Rack Street Survival to Save Young Lives
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (July 26, 2007) - Along with the freedom and excitement of receiving a driver's license, comes the serious responsibility of being a safe and educated driver. The sobering statistics on the number of teen drivers involved in traffic incidents has prompted the Sports Car Club of America to become a partner with The Tire Rack Street Survival program, giving young drivers, and their parents, access to the wealth of expertise SCCA members have to offer.

Developed by the BMW Car Club of America and the BMW CCA Foundation in 2002, The Tire Rack Street Survival teen driving schools are expanding across the country and have enlisted the support of the Sports Car Club of America for its growing network of classes.

On August 11 at the World Arena in Colorado Springs, Colo., the first SCCA-operated Tire Rack Street Survival teen drivers' school will be conducted by a group of highly skilled volunteer instructors from the SCCA's Continental Divide Region.

The registration fee of $60.00 provides students with experienced instructors who safely guide them through a day of behind-the-wheel instruction and short classroom sessions. Driving skill courses are specifically designed to mimic everyday driving hazards, obstacles and challenges. Students will use the vehicles they are most familiar with, which is usually their family or personal car, truck or SUV.

Parents are urged to talk to their teen drivers about the advantages of attending this one day program. Eligible students are 16 to 21 years old and hold a valid, unrestricted driver's license or a valid permit. Students should have some driving experience and parents should make plans to attend the programs along with their teens. Parents can find the nearest school and register their teen drivers on-line at www.streetsurvival.org. For more information on the Colorado Springs class, contact Arnie Coleman at (710) 310-8281 or arniecoleman@comcast.net.

Further information about this and other Street Survival schools in areas across the country can be obtained by contacting Mike Dickerson at the Sports Car Club of America (800) 770-2055 or mdickerson@scca.com.

Posted On 7/26/07

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Audi Club Northwest High Performance Driving School at Pacific Raceways in Kent Washington

Wed, 25 Jul 2007 11:48:25 PST

Audi Club Northwest High Performance Driving School at Pacific Raceways in Kent Washington
By Vikki Leary, ACNA

July 25, 2007 -- Audi Club Northwest High Performance Driving School at Pacific Raceways in Kent Washington.

On August 16th Matrix Integrated, Audi Club Northwest, and Northwest Alfa Romeo Club present a high performance driving school at Pacific Raceways (formerly SIR). If you have never driven this track it is an exciting and challenging track to drive featuring many elevation changes and every type of corner. It will be the ACNW's 3rd event at this track and we hope to do them more regularly but we need participation to assure that future.

This event is not for first time participants but for those who have attended at least one drivers training school put on by Audi Club Northwest or other comparable club or school. You can ask Pat Martin if you have questions on this issue.

This event is being run under the Alfa club rules which are somewhat different than ACNW's rules so convertibles WILL be allowed if they meet the Alfa club's criteria. Other details on event rules can be found on the www.motorsportreg.com website where you can register for the event.

www.audiclubnw.org

www.nwalfaclub.com

www.matrixintegrated.cc

Posted On 7/25/07

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SPEED World Challenge: Mid-Ohio Pecorari Incidents Draw Point Penalties

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 11:06:11 PST

SPEED World Challenge: Mid-Ohio Pecorari Incidents Draw Point Penalties
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (Jul. 24, 2007) - SCCA Pro Racing announced today a point penalty following the July 22 Mid-Ohio SCCA SPEED Touring Car race.

After separate incidents with the cars of Jason Martinelli and Randy Pobst, Adam Pecorari (#19 Audi A4) received a 20-point Drivers' Championship fine (10 points per incident) and Audi lost one Manufacturers' point for the incident with Pobst, as his Mazda was in a Manufacturers' point position (top six). Pecorari has until Friday, July 27 to appeal the decision.

Posted On 7/24/07

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Hard to Beat Honda at Finger Lakes ProSol

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 11:03:44 PST

Hard to Beat Honda at Finger Lakes ProSol
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

ROMULUS, N.Y. (July 24, 2007) It's safe to say the first SCCA ProSolo event in upstate New York was a success, especially if you were at the wheel of a Honda. Honda drivers won three of the four challenges at Seneca Army Depot for the TireRack SCCA ProSolo hosted by the Finger Lakes Region.

Soloists were treated to a challenging Jim Garry-designed course at the retired Army airfield. The Finger Lakes ProSolo was the second appearance of the new single-course format on the 2007 schedule, but it was the first time competitors had a fully-functioning start tree and reaction times. With each driver receiving nine runs on the course over two days, the pace of the event was brisk to say the least.

After missing the Atlanta ProSolo, Andy Hollis, of Austin, Texas, returned to SCCA ProSolo competition in upstate New York, but not in his usual ride. Hollis beat out 18 other cars for the Street Touring S win in a Soulspeed/PowerCurve Dyno Honda Civic Si and proceeded to advance to the final round of the Hawk Super Challenge where he would top the Street Touring S2 Honda CRX of Ian Baker, from Herndon, Va.

Baker's revenge came shortly thereafter as the two had a rematch to determine the Honda Hot Shoe in the Honda Tuner Challenge, with Baker emerging the victor.

Cara Ness, of Medfield, Mass., gave Honda a third challenge win by taking the Ladies Challenge in her Fun Hondas Racing Honda Civic Si, after claiming the Ladies Class 1 victory by 0.917-second over the Towne MINI/Stranoautoparts.com Mini Cooper S of Heather Everett, from Ochard Park, N.Y.

Tim Whalen, of Williamsville, N.Y., interrupted a full Honda sweep by taking the Bonus Challenge win in a SoraNezumi Racing Mazda 3. Whalen went to the Bonus Challenge after just missing out on the H Stock win to Chang Ho Kim, of Maynard, Mass. Kim set his fastest time on his final run, proving the best drivers will find ways to improve with each run.

In addition to several last-run victories, the single-course format produced a crop of tight finishes on Sunday.

Matthew Colburn, of East Falmouth, Mass., won A Stock in a Subaru Impreza STi, by just 0.031-second over the STi of Christopher Carris, of Hopewell Junction, N.Y. Closer still, rookie Scott Thursby, of Portsmouth, R.I., claimed the D Stock victory in a Mazda 3 by 0.019-second over Bryan Hertweck, of Summerfield, N.C., in a Chrysler Crossfire. But the tightest match of the weekend was between the Towne Mini/Stranoparts.com Mini Cooper S of Michael Potocki and the Helix MiniSports/MINIUSA.com Mini Cooper of Jeff Jacobs. Overcoming two red-light starts, Potocki, of Kenmore, N.Y., would take the win by a slim 0.015-second over Jacobs, from Philadelphia, Pa.

With such close finishes across the board, the single-course format appears to have a bright future in the SCCA ProSolo program.

"We consider the Finger Lakes ProSolo a huge success and a significant step forward in developing this event concept and format," SCCA Vice President of Solo and Rally Howard Duncan said. "The Finger Lakes Region was a great partner in this effort, and from what we learned here, we can make the next single-course format event in Utah even better and more entertaining."

For full results from The Finger Lakes ProSolo visit the even page at www.scca.com.

The next SCCA ProSolo event is right around the corner at Toledo Airport in Ohio, July 28 29.

Attached image: Honda drivers were big winners at the Finger Lakes ProSolo.
Credit: Alan Sheidler photo

Posted On 7/24/07

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BimmerWorld Wins At Mid-Ohio As Joey Hand Puts On A BMW Driving Clinic

Mon, 23 Jul 2007 10:47:08 PST

BimmerWorld Wins At Mid-Ohio As Joey Hand Puts On A BMW Driving Clinic
By Bimmerworld Media Services

Delivers 1st win for team in his debut race, first professional win for the BMW E90 in North America; team mate Seth Thomas suffers heartbreak on starting line while 3rd on the grid.

Dublin, VA - 7/23/07 -- After years of learning the series and developing their own cars, the BimmerWorld SPEED World Challenge Touring Car team broke through at Mid-Ohio on Sunday to score their first win as an entrant, the first win for new driver Joey Hand, and the first professional win for the new BMW 3-series E90 chassis in North America.

After a weekend of so many firsts, team owner James Clay was beaming with pride after sharing sips of Hand's champagne with his BimmerWorld crew in victory circle. "It's awesome-it's taken us a lot of time and a lot of hard work to get here. We knew it would be tough to develop these new cars and it's nice that it's finally paying off. It's a start, but it's just one win. (I hope) it's the start of a trend."

Joey Hand, new to the BimmerWorld team but by no means new to driving BMW's or working with James Clay, was thankful for the opportunity to end a dry spell for race wins, and to exorcize the memories of a famous crash that saw him somersaulting last year at Mid-Ohio. The first thing he did after the race was to call his wife and tell her the good news, "Honey, I survived Mid-Ohio this year and actually won!"

For Hand, victory is the only thing he races for. "It's an awesome feeling. This is what I remember from winning. I've won all my life from Karting to race cars, and I've just had this dry streak with some situations that didn't go well, or some close calls. Last year I seemingly had this one won, and ended up in the biggest wreck I've ever been in, and the biggest wreck most people have ever seen. Somebody told me that Mid-Ohio owed me one, and maybe that's true; today it was more about the BimmerWorld crew guys working hard all week, working through small challenges we had, powering through that, and I wanted to make sure I came in here and gave these guys a hundred percent."

With Hand coming to BimmerWorld from a number of high profile racing series and teams, it's what he discovered within the BimmerWorld program that was most refreshing. "(I found a) well built race car, a safely built race car-that's important to me, and a car that had all the potential I needed-it went fast as soon as I got into it."

Rather than Hand coming to the team and bringing the missing tools necessary for the program to win, he found the car, crew, and expertise already there for him to take the checkered flag. "When I walked into this deal, this was a top-notch professional team with great crew guys-some of the best I've seen, especially at this level of racing. These guys are all Rolex or ALMS-quality mechanics. The data guys, the engine builders, all that stuff is top-notch.

"It's not just me coming in here as a professional that really makes all the difference; sure, my knowledge helps, but if you don't have a good crew and a good race car, I'm still going to finish 8th or 9th. I can't just come in and 'wheel' anything. The car has to be something, and this car is something. This team has got everything they need to be successful through the end of the year, and next year to go for a championship."

Seth Thomas, the top qualifying BimmerWorld driver in 3rd place, would experience the highs and lows of motor sports when a driveline failure kept his car stationary as the green lights came on. "It was a short and sweet race for me, (but) it was fun watching Joey from the side lines. It's great being able to see his driving style and my driving style in these kinds of cars with the Toyo Tires and the PFC Brakes; we can blend those styles together and I think it will be a killer package."

In the cut-throat SPEED Touring Car series, the BimmerWorld team takes on the full might of manufacturer supported efforts from Mazda and Acura with the BMW 325i chassis' that are built and developed in-house. Unlike Mazda and Acura, the BimmerWorld team has only their experience and relationships with key suppliers to battle the factories. Clay is the first to share the credit for the win with their partners that have helped to provide the advantage needed for their customer cars and their race cars.

"Seth and Joey have demonstrated all weekend how fast and competitive our race cars are. Seth had a let down in the race, but he was our fastest driver all weekend and has been ready to win all season. When his team mate won instead, it affirmed what we've been doing for years on track and at our shop: we race what we sell, and what we sell is the best on the market.

"The Performance Friction brake kits on our race cars are very similar to the same kit we sell to customers and install for street or lapping day use. The same goes for our Moton shocks-the Moton Club Sports we sell to our clients have the same engineering quality, design, and racing lineage as the full-race versions on our World Challenge cars. We're proud to represent all our partners and to prove their quality with a win. We're working hard to win more and more for them."

With Clay's bold choice to abandon the popular but old BMW E46 chassis, to buy three new E90's, and to fashion them into race winning form, a hard year and a half of developing the E90 is starting to bear fruit.

"I don't think you can expect to be strong out of the box, and through all the troubles we've had, this has definitely not been an easy road. But it's what you have to do; you can't sit and race your old stuff and continue to do well. BimmerWorld pioneers things-that's what we do as a company, that's what we do with the parts that we sell, and it's what we do on the race team."

Looking to the next round in Canada at Mosport, August 24-26:

Seth Thomas, by far the SPEED Touring Car driver that's most overdue for a win, is forced to look to Mosport for his next opportunity to stand atop the podium. "Road Atlanta's my home track and Mosport is my second favorite track, so there's a positive result coming soon," he said smiling.

Thomas and Hand get their team owner back as a team mate for Mosport. Seth thinks Clay's skills behind the wheel will only improve the team's chances at success. "With three cars in the mix, and considering how well we ran here, having (James back) will definitely be beneficial. Every time we come out here and run these cars we see different things that each of us can do to make the lap times faster and faster."

Joey Hand also looks forward to the 3-car BimmerWorld team at Mosport. "I'm just thinking about beating the team owner (laughs)." I think the rest of the season will be good for our BMW's-I've always been strong at Mosport, and I think I've come in at the right time of the year."

While the road ahead for BimmerWorld and their BMW E90's won't be easy, at least they've proven that the car and team had the potential to earn a breakthrough win. In the month leading up Mosport, the drivers, crew, and team partners will be challenged to keep pace with the factory teams in the race to develop the best SPEED Touring Cars possible.

Courtesy: BimmerWorld Media Services
mediaservices@bimmerworld.com

More information about the team, cars, and drivers can be found at www.bimmerworldracing.com
Information on BimmerWorld's Customer Car Services can be found at www.bimmerworld.com
Details on PowerFlex Suspension Bushings can be found at www.powerflexusa.com

The BimmerWorld team is proudly supported by: Silkolene, Ground Control, BBS, Moton, Bimmerforums.com, Performance Friction, Diffsonline, JB Racing, and Rogue Engineering

Posted On 7/23/07

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Curran Takes Third SPEED GT Win of Season at Mid-Ohio

Sun, 22 Jul 2007 08:52:19 PST

Curran Takes Third SPEED GT Win of Season at Mid-Ohio
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

LEXINGTON, Ohio (July 22, 2007) Eric Curran, of East Hampton, Mass., led Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Race Presented by Trenton Forging flag-to-flag to capture his third series win of the season in front of a record crowd at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., and Lawson Aschenbach, completed the top three.

Curran started from the pole in his No. 30 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette and sped away from the standing start to an early lead over the No. 5 Mopar/Autohaus Motorsport Dodge Viper of Tommy Archer. The top three qualified and remained the same throughout the 29-lap, 65.481-mile contest that ran caution-free.

While the gap between first and second was under a half second with just a few laps remaining, Curran was able to pull out to a final margin of 2.002 seconds at the finish over Archer. In post-race technical inspection, the gearbox in Archer's Viper was found to be out of compliance, and the car disqualified.

For Curran, it has been feast or famine in SCCA SPEED GT competition this year. After starting the season off with back-to-back wins at Sebring and Long Beach, he had three-straight DNFs followed by a run two weeks ago in Toronto that included two stop and go penalties and a pit stop.

"It's been an unbelievable season," Curran said. "The first couple of races were amazing. Two wins with a new team, and then things fell apart in a hurry. I couldn't believe how quickly things went down hill, but these guys at Marsh Racing have been working their hearts out weekend after weekend trying to give me the best possible car. Toronto was a disastrous weekend, but we ended up finishing seventh and got to take some weight out of the car and I think that helped a bit today.

"The Whelen Engineering Corvette was just fabulous today. For the fans, it would have been a lot more exciting to see us closer together, but it was a lot of work. I wanted this win so badly and I felt like I was running qualifying laps. With some help from Randy [Pobst] pushing Tommy [Archer], I got a little bit of a gap, but I pushed a little bit too hard. The tires started to go off a bit and the brake pedal started to sink and Tommy was coming strong. I did everything I could to keep that Whelen Corvette at the front and it just feels great to be back on the podium. To win three races in one season is just unbelievable, especially racing with these guys who are the top drivers in the country."

It was Curran's second win of the weekend, also taking a Grand-American win at Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama from the pole on Saturday.

"I landed at two in the morning here to do qualifying on Saturday after qualifying in Alabama on Friday," he said of his travels. "Once I got in the car, I forgot about the lack of sleep and just focused and got the pole. Then flew right back to Barber and ran two races there. It was a long day yesterday, but I got some good sleep and felt great this morning. Two poles and two wins this weekend, it's wonderful, it couldn't be better."

Point leader Pobst had a solid run in his No. 22 K-PAX Racing/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3. Coming off of back-to-back wins at Watkins Glen and Toronto, Pobst extended his lead in the Championship to 18 points over Andy Pilgrim with his fourth-straight podium.

"From where I sat, it was flat out," Pobst said. "My K-PAX Porsche was tuned just right for this track. There were times when I thought I had a little something for Tommy [Archer]. Toward the end of the race, he was a little quicker and pulled out a gap, but I just kept pushing as hard as I could.

"I love running here at Mid-Ohio, it's a fun track. I'm kind of disappointed though that we all spread out so much and didn't make a better show.

"For the Championship this is another good race for the K-PAX/3R team. One of my personal sponsors, Team Janica, was here today, so it's great to be on the podium."

Pobst entered Mid-Ohio leading both the SCCA SPEED GT and Touring Car Championships, but leaves only with the GT lead after an early incident eliminated him from the Touring Car race this morning.

"This reminds me a little bit of Laguna Seca last year where the Touring Car race was first and there was a bit of a disaster that I created, but then the GT race went much better. It's all part of racing; you get the good breaks, you get the bad breaks. Now we get five weeks off and on a high note, because my mood is usually determined by how the last race went."

Defending series Champion Aschenbach had a quiet run to wind up third in his No. 1 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V, his fourth top-three finish of the season.

"I got a good start, and my Cadillac really took off," Aschenbach said. "At the end of the race, I was slipping and sliding. I didn't have anything for the Corvette, Viper and Porsche, so we were just trying to bring the car home in the points."

Aschenbach's teammate Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., was fourth in his No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V. Michael Galati, of Olmsted, Ohio, recovered from a start-line stall to finish fifth in his No. 23 K-PAX Racing/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3.

Michael McCann (Dodge Viper), Brian Kubinski (Chevrolet Corvette), James Sofronas (Porsche 911 GT3), Tim McKenzie (Porsche 911 GT3) and Doug Peterson (Chevrolet Corvette) completed the top 10.

Kubinski took home two awards for his effort in the No. 12 Diamond Construction/Blackdog Racing Chevrolet Corvette-the B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race for his pass on James Sofronas and the Piloti Rookie of the Race.

Sofronas earned the Toyo Tires Cup in his No. 14 Global Motorsports Group Porsche 911 GT3 and Jeffrey Robbins, of Southfield, Mich., was the Sunoco Hard Charger in his No. 6 RSIG Security Dodge Viper for advancing four positions in the race.

Pobst's 215 points top Pilgrim's 197 in the Drivers' Championship. Aschenbach is third, with 185, followed by Galati (174) and Curran (153).

Cadillac continues to lead the Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER Magazine, with 45 points. Chevrolet moved into a two-way tie with Porsche for second with the win (41 points), followed by Dodge (19).

Today's race will be broadcast Saturday, July 28 at 4 p.m. (EDT) on SPEED.

The series next travels to Canada for the Mobil 1 Presents the Grand Prix of Mosport Aug. 25.

For additional series information, please visit www.world-challenge.com.

Results from Sunday's 29-lap, 65.481-mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Round Seven race, Presented by Trenton Forging at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps, distance behind winner and reason out (if any).

1. (1), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 29.
2. (3), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 29, -6.106.
3. (5), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 29, -11.341.
4. (6), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 29, -16.352.
5. (4), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 29, -16.923.
6. (8), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 29, -20.865.
7. (7), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 29, -26.223.
8. (9), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 29, -30.653.
9. (10), Tim McKenzie(R), Madison, Wis., Porsche 911 GT-3, 29, -32.845.
10. (26), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 29, -50.375.
11. (24), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 29, -52.027.
12. (13), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 29, -52.404.
13. (12), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 29, -54.139.
14. (15), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 29, -54.809.
15. (14), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Chevrolet Corvette, 28, -1 lap.
16. (21), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 28, -1 lap.
17. (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 28, -1 lap.
18. (19), Joel Feinberg(R), Ft Lauderdale, Fla., Dodge Viper, 28, -1 lap.
19. (23), Thomas Glenn(R), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 28, -1 lap.
20. (22), Chapman Ducote(R), Miami, Fla., Dodge Viper, 28, -1 lap.
21. (16), Ritch Marziale, Tempe, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 28, -1 lap.
22. (25), John Bourassa(T), Jupiter Island, Fla., Porsche 911 Turbo, 27, -2 laps.
23. (17), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 26, -3 laps.
24. (11), Stu Hayner, Yorba Linda, Calif., Pontiac GTO, 20, Mech.
25. (18), Lenny Diller(T), Garden City, N.Y., Dodge Viper, 9, Trans.
DQ. (2), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 29.

Time of race: 42 minutes, 32.520 seconds.
Average speed: 92.354 mph, Record
Margin of victory: 2.002 seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-29, #30 Eric Curran
Fastest race lap: #5 Tommy Archer, 1:27.276 (93.139 mph), Record
Fastest qualifier: #30 Eric Curran, 1:25.624 (94.936 mph), Record
Sunoco Hard Charger: #6 Jeffrey Robbins
B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race: #12 Brian Kubinski
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #12 Brian Kubinski
Toyo Tires Cup: #14 James Sofronas
Note: #5 Tommy Archer disqualified following post-race technical inspection

SCCA SPEED GT Drivers' Championship After Seven of 10 Rounds

Ps., Driver, Car, Points (Wins)
1, Randy Pobst, Porsche 911 GT3, 215 (2)
2, Andy Pilgrim, Cadillac CTS-V, 197 (1)
3, Lawson Aschenbach, Cadillac CTS-V, 185
4, Michael Galati, Porsche 911 GT3, 174
5, Eric Curran, Chevrolet Corvette, 153 (3)
6, Tommy Archer, Dodge Viper, 143 (1)
7, Lou Gigliotti, Chevrolet Corvette, 142
8, Doug Peterson, Chevrolet Corvette, 118
9, Rob Foster (T), Chevrolet Corvette, 115
10, Jeff Courtney, Dodge Viper, 106

SCCA SPEED GT Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER After Seven of 10 Rounds

Ps., Manufacturer, Points (Wins)
1, Cadillac, 45 (1)
2, Chevrolet, 41 (3)
2, Porsche, 41 (2)
4, Dodge, 19 (1)

Attached: Image of race winner Eric Curran at Mid-0hio Sports Car Course. Mark Weber/SCCA Image.

Posted On 7/22/07

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BimmerWorld, Joey Hand Take First SPEED Touring Car Victory at Mid-Ohio

Sun, 22 Jul 2007 08:47:28 PST

BimmerWorld, Joey Hand Take First SPEED Touring Car Victory at Mid-Ohio
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

LEXINGTON, Ohio (July 22, 2007) The addition of Joey Hand, from Sacramento, Calif., to the BimmerWorld driver line-up paid huge dividends as both Hand and BimmerWorld captured their first series victories in SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car competition at the Round Seven race from Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course presented by Trenton Forging. Chip Herr, of Lititz, Pa., and Jeff Altenburg of Ellicott City, Md., completed the podium.

As the lights went out, signaling the start of the Round Seven SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship race, second-starting Herr rocketed off the line in his No. 17 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Sewickley Audi A4, pulling a gap immediately on polesitter Altenburg who was busy defending his spot from James Sofronas and Jason Martinelli. Meanwhile, Hand fell a spot to fifth, while his teammate Seth Thomas, of Cumming, Ga., sat motionless on the fourth grid position in his No. 38 BimmerWorld BMW 325i with a driveline issue.

Eager to bounce back from his poor start, Hand picked off the No. 8 Tecmark Autosport Ltd. BMW 325Ci of Martinelli on lap six and took the third spot from Sofronas on lap 16. The No. 37 BimmerWorld BMW 325i driver then set his sights on Altenburg and Herr.

"It took me a little while to get used to the car with these tires," Hand said. "At the end of the race, I was dead, dead loose, especially in the high-speed stuff. So there was a little bit of tire management at the end. I was adjusting the lines at the end of the race to compensate for that.

"Being the leaders, both of these guys, did as I would do, defendeding the straightaway, which is your best place to pass. We had some [great] outside-inside racing. Altenburg and I were dead sideways for four corners. I don't know how we didn't wreck. If that's not a show for TV and these fans here, then I don't know what is."

Hand made the pass stick following his side-by-side show with Altenburg in the Esses and had five laps to reel in Herr. Hand gave it everything he had, locking up the brakes and dropping wheels, but on the last lap, it was Herr who gave Hand a golden opportunity, locking up and running wide in the Keyhole, allowing the BMW to sneak through. Hand crossed the finish line 1.064 seconds ahead of Herr for the win in his first SPEED Touring Car start, averaging 87.457 MPH in the 27-lap, 60.966 mile-race.

"It's great to be in SPEED World Challenge Touring Car and in the Bimmerworld BMW 325i. BMWs are where I've been for the last four years and it is the Ultimate Driving Machine. I love this kind of racing-these short races. A knock down, drag out fight is what it's all about.

Hand also reset the race lap record, turning a 1:32.946 (87.457 mph) around the 13-turn, 2.258-mile road course. The race was a far cry from Hand's Grand-Am race last year at Mid-Ohio, when his BMW somersaulted across the back straight after hitting an access road during an off-course excursion.

"Someone said to me 'I think Mid-Ohio owed you one.' And I was like, 'you're right, Mid-Ohio did owe me one.' I was driving down the inside, trying to get the line on these guys and I kept thinking about what happened last year down the back straightaway.

"It was a great race. It's a great feeling. I have to thank James Clay and Bimmerword for putting me in this thing. I have a great teammate in Seth Thomas, who is really fun to drive with and I've got a new friend. It's not always going to be like this, so you take it when you can get it."

Herr led every lap except the last to take his second podium of the season.

"I had a feeling that both Jeff [Altenburg] and Joey [Hand] were both going to come by me on the back straight the way they were running together," Herr said. "I got a decent start-enough to get in front of Jeff and my whole hope was that the BMWs would just work on Jeff and force him to run a defensive line, which turned out to be a gift for me for a while.

"I tried to run the car hard all race and run consistent lap times. But toward the end, it was starting to slide around a little bit. When you've got competitive guys behind you like this, you can't just back off for three laps and then get back up to speed.

"On the last lap, I did make a mistake in the Keyhole. I just got a little deep. I was modulating the brake pedal and just trying to keep from spinning the car and didn't get it turned in. He got a great run going out of the Keyhole and took advantage of what happened to me.

"We were both sliding around and giving each other enough room. On the last lap through the Carousel, I had the car in a drift the entire time. We did put a show on."

A third-place finish wasn't the win Altenburg was looking for, but it was the most fun he's had in the No. 72 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6 in a while.

"That was one of the most fun races of my career," Altenburg said. "A couple of times early, I had a chance to get close to Chip [Herr] but never in a potential passing situation. I don't think Joey and I touched at all. That was some of the most fun, close, awesome racing-respecting each other's space the whole way. There aren't too many people I feel comfortable with doing that with, but he's definitely one of them.

"Once Randy [Pobst] went off and I was dicing really hard with Joey, I was like 'you idiot, you're in the points lead now.' But I knew I could trust Joey, and Chip, to be clean. After that race, we're real happy with third."

With his teammate Pobst exiting the race on lap 12 in his No. 73 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6 with damaged suspension following contact with the No. 18 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Sewickley Audi A4 of Adam Pecorari, Altenburg leads the SPEED Touring Car Drivers' Championship by 17 points ahead of Pobst (215 to 198).

After finishing fourth at Mid-Ohio in his No. 29 Tecmark Autosport/GMG BMW 325Ci and winning the Toyo Tires Cup Award, Sofronas, of Newport Beach, Calif., moves into third in the Drivers' Championship with 171 points.

Pierre Kleinubing, of Coconut Creek, Fla., picked up five positions in the race, finishing fifth in his No. 1 Certified Pre-Owned Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura TSX.

Toronto winner Peter Cunningham (Acura TSX) finished sixth, followed by Ian Baas (Audi A4) and Charles Espenlaub (Mazda 6). Adam Pecorari (Audi A4) and Kuno Wittmer (Acura RSX) completed the top ten.

Charlie Putnam, driver of the No. 96 Tindol Motorsports/Pesco Inc. Mazda 6 won the Sunoco Hard Charger of the Race award for advancing six positions. Putnam picked up three of those positions on the start, which also gave him the B&M Shifters Holeshot Award.

Roberto Santos was the Piltoi Rookie of the Race, finishing 13th in his No. 74 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development/TPM Mazda 6.

Mazda now leads Acura by 19 points (53 to 34) in the SCCA SPEED Touring Car Manufacturers' Championship Presented by Racer Magazine. BMW and Audi are tied for third with 26 points each.

The race will be broadcast on SPEED, Saturday, July 28, at 3:00 p.m. (EDT).

Round Eight of the SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship heads back over the border for Mobil 1 Presents The Grand Prix of Mosport, Sunday, August 26.

For all the latest news and results, including live timing and lap notes, visit www.world-challenge.com

Results from Sunday's 27-lap 60.966-mile SPEED World Challenge Touring Car at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course Presented by Trenton Forging race, with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps and reason out (if any).

1. (4), Joey Hand, Sacramento, Calif., BMW 325i, 27.
2. (2), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 27, -1.064.
3. (1), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 27, -2.827.
4. (5), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 27, -6.549.
5. (10), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 27, -7.501.
6. (8), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 27, -8.291.
7. (23), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 27, -15.799.
8. (11), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 27, -22.546.
9. (7), Adam Pecorari, Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, 27, -23.540.
10. (12), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 27, -24.195.
11. (15), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 27, -32.033.
12. (18), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 27, -44.966.
13. (13), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey Mexico, , Mazda 6, 27, -47.704.
14. (6), Jason Martinelli(R), Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 27, -1:06.984.
15. (17), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 27, -1:08.384.
16. (19), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Lexus IS 300, 27, -1:09.485.
17. (16), Nick Esayian(T), Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 27, -1:30.226.
18. (21), Jim Osborn(T), Ooltewah, Tenn., Volkswagen Jetta TDI, 26, -1 lap.
19. (22), Branden Peterson(T), Breckenridge, Colo., Acura TSX, 25, -2 laps.
20. (14), Andrew Wojteczko(R), Caledon, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, 24, -3 laps.
21. (9), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 12, Mech.
22. (20), Justin Pritchard(R), Grandville, Ohio, Toyota Celica GTS, 4, Mech.
23. (3), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 0, Mech.

Time of race: 42 minutes, 25.487 seconds.
Average speed: 86.222 mph
Margin of victory: 1.064 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-26, #17 Chip Herr; laps 27-27, #37 Joey Hand
Fastest race lap: #37 Joey Hand, 1:32.946 (87.457 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #72 Jeff Altenburg, 1:32.846 (87.551 mph)
B&M Holeshot Award: #96 Putman
Sunoco Hard Charger Award: #96 Putman
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #74 Santos
Toyo Tires Cup: #29 Sofronas

SCCA SPEED Touring Car Drivers' Championship After Seven of 10 Rounds

Ps., Driver, Car, Points (Wins)
1, Jeff Altenburg, Mazda 6, 215 (2)
2, Randy Pobst, Mazda 6, 198 (2)
3, James Sofronas(T), BMW 325Ci, 173
4, Pierre Kleinubing, Acura TSX, 169
5, Chip Herr, Audi A4, 159 (1)
6, Peter Cunningham, Acura TSX, 152 (1)
7, Kuno Wittmer, Acura RSX, 146
8, Charles Espenlaub, Mazda 6, 137
9, Michael Galati, Mazda 6, 106
10, Brandon Davis, Acura TSX, 95

SCCA SPEED Touring Car Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER After Seven of 10 Rounds

Ps., Manufacturer, Points (Wins)
1, Mazda, 53 (4)
2, Acura, 34 (1)
3T, Audi, 26 (1)
3T, BMW, 26 (1)

Posted On 7/22/07

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Curran Takes SPEED GT Mid-Ohio Pole

Sat, 21 Jul 2007 08:42:07 PST

Curran Takes SPEED GT Mid-Ohio Pole
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

LEXINGTON, Ohio (July 21, 2007) Eric Curran, of East Hampton, Mass., captured his first pole of the season for tomorrow's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course Presented By Trenton Forging race. Tommy Archer, of Duluth, Minn., will start second.

Although he has two race wins and three front-row starts already this season, Curran picked up his very first SCCA SPEED GT pole of 2007 for Round Seven of the Championship at Mid-Ohio. Curran lapped the 13-turn, 2.258-mile track in 1:25.624 (94.936 mph) behind the wheel of his No. 30 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette. The time established a new SCCA SPEED GT qualifying lap record.

"These guys are working real hard to get the No. 30 Whelen car up to speed," Curran said. "It's been a tough season and we're trying to get the car back on the podium and get some good finishes and try to gain some more points.

"I knew we had a good car on the Thursday test day. I didn't have a choice to be here yesterday for practice, but we made a bunch of changes to the car and got it up to speed Thursday.

"It took a little bit to get some heat in the tires. It's definitely a cool morning and there was a little dampness on the track as well."

This is Curran's second pole in less than 24 hours. The busy driver set pole for a Koni Challenge race at Barber Motorsports Park yesterday and was already on a plane bound for Alabama shortly after qualifying at Mid-Ohio.

Tommy Archer, of Duluth, Minn., will start Sunday's race second. Archer led the qualifying session early and continued to improve to a time of 1:25.718 (94.831 mph) in his No. 5 Mopar/Autohaus Motosport Dodge Viper. While he's had much success in other forms of racing at Mid-Ohio, it is Archer's first front-row start at the circuit in SPEED World Challenge competition.

Row two is filled with the K-PAX Porsches. Current point leader Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., will start his No. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 third on the grid after turning a 1:25.792 (94.750 mph). Michael Galati, of Olmsted, Ohio, put in a 1:26.031 (94.486 mph) in his No. 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3, good enough for fourth.

Fastest in the morning practice on Friday, Doug Peterson, of Bonita Springs, Fla., will start his No. 87 3-Dimensional Services Chevrolet Corvette fifth with a 1:26.147 (94.359 mph). Peterson noted that a problem with the Corvette did not allow him to turn a quick lap until late in the session.

Last year's winner Lou Gigliotti (Chevrolet Corvette) starts sixth, followed by the Cadillac CTS-V teammates of Lawson Aschenbach and Andy Pilgrim. Brian Kubinski (Chevrolet Corvette) and Michael McCann (Dodge Viper) complete the top ten.

The SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT at Mid-Ohio Presented by Trenton Forging race will go green Sunday at 4:15 p.m. (EDT). Visit www.world-challenge.com for live timing and results.

The race will air Saturday, July 28 at 4:00 p.m. (EDT) on SPEED.

Starting lineup for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course Presented by Trenton Forging race, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:25.624, 94.936.
2, (5), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 1:25.718, 94.831.
3, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:25.792, 94.750.
4, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:26.031, 94.486.
5, (87), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:26.147, 94.359.
6, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 1:26.281, 94.213.
7, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:26.408, 94.074.
8, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:26.489, 93.986.
9, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:26.580, 93.887.
10, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 1:26.641, 93.821.
11, (14), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:26.961, 93.476.
12, (66), Tim McKenzie(R), Madison, Wis., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:27.044, 93.387.
13, (21), Stu Hayner, Yorba Linda, Calif., Pontiac GTO, 1:27.234, 93.183.
14, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 1:27.369, 93.039.
15, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 1:27.701, 92.687.
16, (17), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:27.986, 92.387.
17, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:28.086, 92.282.
18, (56), Ritch Marziale, Tempe, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:28.185, 92.179.
19, (31), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:28.501, 91.849.
20, (51), Lenny Diller(T), Garden City, N.Y., Dodge Viper, 1:28.530, 91.819.
21, (79), Joel Feinberg(R), Ft Lauderdale, Fla., Dodge Viper, 1:28.916, 91.421.
22, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 1:29.020, 91.314.
23, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 1:29.105, 91.227.
24, (02), Chapman Ducote(R), Miami, Fla., Dodge Viper, 1:29.645, 90.677.
25, (55), Thomas Glenn(R), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:31.819, 88.530.
26, (76), John Bourassa(T), Jupiter Island, Fla., Porsche 911 Turbo, no time

Attached image: Eric Curran in the No. 30 Whelen Engineering Corvette will start on pole at Mid-Ohio.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 7/21/07

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Altenburg Grabs Third SPEED Touring Car Pole of the Season at Mid-Ohio

Sat, 21 Jul 2007 08:37:13 PST

Altenburg Grabs Third SPEED Touring Car Pole of the Season at Mid-Ohio
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

LEXINGTON, Ohio (July 21, 2007) Jeff Altenburg, of Ellicott City, Md., will start Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course Presented by Trenton Forging race from the pole position after a record-setting run in Saturday's qualifying. Chip Herr, of Lititz, Pa., will start second.

Currently running second in the SCCA SPEED Touring Car Drivers' Championship, Altenburg collected his third pole of 2007. Driving the No. 72 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6, Altenburg clocked a 1:32.846 (87.551 mph) around the 13-turn, 2.258-mile Mid-Ohio road course, a new SCCA SPEED Touring Car qualifying lap record.

Unlike most SCCA SPEED Touring Car qualifying sessions, where the fastest laps come early in the session, times tumbled late in the 20-minute session that started at 7:25 a.m. After one flying lap, the session was stopped to retrieve a car from the Turn One gravel, leaving just over 10 minutes in the session.

"It was kind of like F1 qualifying, with a lot of drama at the end," Altenburg said. "It was pretty cool.

"For me, the problem was Turn One. Before our session, they were sweeping it and there was oil dry. We almost went off on the first lap because we were the first two cars through there. To me, the times dropped because Turn One got better and better.

"I was seventh at the red. Usually, you can let the tires cool down and go out for one more run and get a time reasonably close to the first lap. So, I went out and I did a 33.1 and I was on the pole. I was ready to get out of the car, because that's usually about it. I'm sitting there and sitting there, and the team said 'Cunningham just did a 33.0.' So, with the Acura-Mazda battle, I went back out. They didn't tell me that while I was out there, I fell back to fifth or maybe even worse.

"On my lap, I got through one better than before. I took a little tighter line than usual. The rest of the lap was really no better than the 33.1, it was all about getting through Turn One better."

Altenburg was quick to thank his team for working to overcome a recent adjustment by the series on the Mazda 6.

"We've done a lot to overcome the adjustment, but the weight bias change is going to hurt toward the end of the race. If I can finish on the podium here this weekend, I'll be real happy.

"I have to thank Mazdaspeed, TriPoint and our new sponsor ChaseCam. It's another point for Mazda in the Championship and gets me five points closer to Randy [Pobst] in the Drivers' Championship."

Winner at Mid-Ohio in 2006, Herr will start his No. 17 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Fred Baker Audi A4 second on the grid after turning a 1:32.911 (87.490 mph).

The second row is all BimmerWorld with Seth Thomas, of Cumming, Ga., starting third and Joey Hand, of Sacramento, Calif., starting fourth. Thomas turned a 1:33.032 (87.376 mph) in his No. 38 BimmerWorld BMW 325i with Hand in the No. 37 Bimmerworld BMW just 0.006-second slower, with a 1:33.038 (87.370 mph).

James Sofronas, of Newport Beach, Calif., puts a third BMW in the top five with a lap of 1:33.270 (87.153 mph) in his No. 29 Global Motorsports Group BMW 325Ci.

Jason Martinelli (BMW 325i), Ian Baas (Audi A4), Adam Pecorari (Audi A4), Peter Cunningham (Acura TSX) and Randy Pobst (Mazda 6) completed the top ten.

The SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car at Mid-Ohio Presented by Trenton Forging race will launch from a standing start at 8:45 a.m. (EDT) on Sunday. Visit www.world-challenge.com for live timing and lap notes.

The race will be broadcast Saturday, July 28 at 3 p.m. (EDT) on SPEED.

Starting lineup for Sunday's 27-lap, 60.966-mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED Touring Championship Round Seven race at Mid-Ohio Presented by Trenton Forging at Mid Ohio Sports Car Course, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 1:32.846, 87.551.
2, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 1:32.911, 87.490.
3, (38), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 1:33.032, 87.376.
4, (37), Joey Hand, Sacramento, Calif., BMW 325i, 1:33.038, 87.370.
5, (29), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 1:33.270, 87.153.
6, (8), Jason Martinelli(R), Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 1:33.370, 87.060.
7, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 1:33.373, 87.057.
8, (19), Adam Pecorari, Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, 1:33.485, 86.953.
9, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 1:33.540, 86.901.
10, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 1:33.600, 86.846.
11, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 1:33.695, 86.758.
12, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 1:33.772, 86.686.
13, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 1:33.825, 86.637.
14, (74), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey Mexico, Mazda 6, 1:34.102, 86.382.
15, (64), Andrew Wojteczko(R), Caledon, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, 1:34.121, 86.365.
16, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 1:34.178, 86.313.
17, (34), Nick Esayian(T), Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 1:34.351, 86.154.
18, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 1:34.354, 86.152.
19, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 1:35.134, 85.445.
20, (65), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Lexus IS 300, 1:35.875, 84.785.
21, (61), Justin Pritchard(R), Grandville, Ohio, Toyota Celica GTS, 1:38.412, 82.599.
22, (24), Jim Osborn(T), Ooltewah, Tenn., Volkswagen Jetta TDI, 1:38.692, 82.365.
23, (49), Branden Peterson(T), Breckenridge, Colo., Acura TSX, 1:40.504, 80.880.

Attached: Jeff Altenburg crests the hill in the Mid-Ohio Esses during qualifying for Sunday's race. Mark Weber/SCCA Image

Posted On 7/21/07

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Peterson Tops SPEED GT Morning Practice at Mid-Ohio

Fri, 20 Jul 2007 06:50:28 PST

Peterson Tops SPEED GT Morning Practice at Mid-Ohio
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

LEXINGTON, Ohio (July 20, 2007) With a time better than the existing SCCA SPEED GT lap record, Doug Peterson, of Bonita Springs, Fla., topped morning practice for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge at Mid-Ohio Presented by Trenton Forging race. Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., and Lou Gigliotti, of Dallas, Texas, were second and third fastest, respectively.

A former SCCA National Champion at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Peterson is no stranger to the ebbs and flows of the 2.258-mile road course. The No. 87 3-Dimensional Services Chevrolet Corvette driver's experience shown through in morning practice as he clocked a time of 1:26.759 (93.694 mph), 0.061-second faster than the current SCCA SPEED GT qualifying record at Mid-Ohio.

"It's my home track," Peterson said. "I used to live in Michigan and we would come down and race here all the time. It's a pretty technical track, you really have to let off the brake and let the car flow. It's got slow speeds, uphills, downhills, off camber turns, it's got everything."

As the session concluded, Peterson couldn't believe what he was hearing on his radio.

"I came in and I asked where I was and they said 'P1' and I said 'yeah right, where am I?' I was hoping to be fifth of sixth and when they said P1, I was surprised."

Current SCCA SPEED GT Drivers' Championship leader Pobst made one last push at the end of the session to sneak into the second spot on the time sheets. Driving the No. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughy Porsche 911 GT3, Pobst put in a time of 1:27.237 (93.180 mph).

Teammate to Peterson as well as last year's polesitter and winner in SPEED GT at Mid-Ohio, Gigliotti stopped the clocks at 1:27.358 (93.051 mph) in his No. 28 LG Pro Long Tube Headers Chevrolet Corvette.

Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., put his No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V fourth on the time sheets with a 1:27.400 (93.006 mph). Brian Kubinski, of Plainfield, Ill., finished the session fifth fastest with a time of 1:27.478 (92.924 mph) in his No. 12 Diamond Construction/Blackdog Racing Chevrolet Corvette.

Michael McCann (Dodge Viper), Michael Galati (Porsche 911 GT3), Lawson Aschenbach (Cadillac CTS-V), Stu Hayner (Pontiac GTO) and James Sofronas (Porsche 911 GT3) completed the top ten.

The second practice session of the day is scheduled for 7:45 p.m. (EDT). Qualifying for Round Seven of the SCCA SPEED GT Championship will take place on Saturday at 7:50 a.m. For the latest news as well as live timing and lap notes visit www.world-challenge.com.

Results from the first practice session for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge race Presented by Trenton Forging at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (87), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:26.759, 93.694.
2, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:27.237, 93.180.
3, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 1:27.358, 93.051.
4, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:27.400, 93.006.
5, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:27.478, 92.924.
6, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 1:27.565, 92.831.
7, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:27.765, 92.620.
8, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:27.953, 92.422.
9, (21), Stu Hayner, Yorba Linda, Calif., Pontiac GTO, 1:28.015, 92.357.
10, (14), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:28.041, 92.329.
11, (66), Tim McKenzie(R), Madison, Wis., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:28.236, 92.125.
12, (5), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 1:28.365, 91.991.
13, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 1:29.041, 91.292.
14, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 1:29.517, 90.807.
15, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 1:29.635, 90.687.
16, (56), Ritch Marziale, Tempe, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:29.636, 90.686.
17, (51), Lenny Diller(T), Garden City, N.Y., Dodge Viper, 1:29.669, 90.653.
18, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:29.808, 90.513.
19, (79), Joel Feinberg(R), Ft Lauderdale, Fla., Dodge Viper, 1:30.365, 89.955.
20, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 1:30.956, 89.370.
21, (17), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:31.006, 89.321.
22, (76), John Bourassa(T), Jupiter Island, Fla., Porsche 911 Turbo, 1:31.481, 88.857.
23, (55), Thomas Glenn(R), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:31.497, 88.842.
24, (02), Chapman Ducote, Miami, Fla., Dodge Viper, 1:32.235, 88.131.
25, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, no time.
26, (31), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, no time.
27, (53), Michael Hartley, West Deptford, N.J., Dodge Viper, no time.

Attached image: The No. 87 3-Dimensional Services Chevrolet Corvette of Doug Peterson.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 7/20/07

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Pecorari Paces Opening SPEED Touring Car Practice at Mid-Ohio

Fri, 20 Jul 2007 06:45:42 PST

Pecorari Paces Opening SPEED Touring Car Practice at Mid-Ohio
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

LEXINGTON, Ohio (July 20, 2007) Adam Pecorari, of Aspon, Pa., was fastest in Friday's opening SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship practice for this weekend's SPEED Touring Car at Mid-Ohio Presented by Trenton Forging race. Jeff Altenburg, of Ellicott City, Md., was second fastest.

Driving the No. 19 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Sewickley Audi A4, Pecorari turned a fastest time of 1:33.533 (86.908 mph) around the 13-turn, 2.258-mile circuit.

"I've been here quite a bit and won several races in Formula Fords and IMSA Lites, and we came into this weekend with a lot of confidence," Pecorari said. "At the beginning of the season, I didn't know too many of the tracks and didn't get a lot of track time-I was the 'new guy.' From here on, I know all of the tracks well and I'm confident going into the last four races."

Pecorari is pulling double-duty this weekend, racing in the American Le Mans Series P2 class as well.

"The last four World Challenge races, I'm with the Le Mans team too, so I'll be running back and forth a lot. I think it really helps me in the Audi, because when you go from a high-speed, high-downforce car like the ALMS car to the sports car like the Audi, everything happens so much slower. It helps you get to the right line and get on the power.

"It's going well so far, but there's a long way to go. We know how fast the Mazdas and Acuras are, as well as my other teammates. It's a good start, though."

Altenburg ran the second-fastest time of the session in his No. 72 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6 with a 1:33.864 (86.601 mph), followed closely by both Pierre Kleinubing's No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura TSX and defending race winner Chip Herr's No. 17 STaSIS/Clear Capital/Fred Baker Audi A4, who turned identical times of 1:33.897 (86.571 mph).

Michael Galati, of Olmsted, Ohio, was fifth fastest in his No. 95 Mazda North America/Tindol Mazda 6 with a fast time of 1:33.943 (86.529 mph).

Ian Baas (Audi A4), point leader Randy Pobst (Mazda 6), Peter Cunningham (Acura TSX), Kuno Wittmer (Acura RSX) and Charles Espenlaub (Mazda 6) completed the top 10, all of which were within 0.785-second of Pecorari's fast lap.

The final practice before Saturday morning's qualifying session is scheduled for this evening at 7:20 p.m. (EDT). Live timing and session notes can be accessed via the SCCA Pit Board at www.world-challenge.com.

Attached: Image of Adam Pecorari practicing at Mid-Ohio in his Audi A4. Image by Mark Weber/SCCA.

Results from the first practice session for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round Seven race Presented by Trenton Forging at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (19), Adam Pecorari, Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, 1:33.533, 86.908.
2, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 1:33.864, 86.601.
3, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 1:33.897, 86.571.
4, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 1:33.897, 86.571.
5, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 1:33.943, 86.529.
6, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 1:34.088, 86.395.
7, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 1:34.098, 86.386.
8, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 1:34.136, 86.351.
9, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 1:34.278, 86.221.
10, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 1:34.318, 86.185.
11, (29), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 1:34.529, 85.992.
12, (64), Andrew Wojteczko(R), Caledon, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, 1:34.542, 85.980.
13, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 1:34.558, 85.966.
14, (8), Jason Martinelli(R), Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 1:34.706, 85.832.
15, (37), Joey Hand, Sacramento, Calif., BMW 325i, 1:34.898, 85.658.
16, (34), Nick Esayian(T), Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 1:34.936, 85.624.
17, (74), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey Mexico, Mazda 6, 1:35.127, 85.452.
18, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 1:37.287, 83.554.
19, (24), Jim Osborn(T), Ooltewah, Tenn., Volkswagen Jetta TDI, 1:37.371, 83.482.
20, (65), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Lexus IS 300, 1:37.751, 83.158.
21, (61), Justin Pritchard(R), Grandville, Ohio, Toyota Celica GTS, 1:39.450, 81.737.
22, (49), Branden Peterson(T), Breckenridge, Colo., Acura TSX, 2:42.493, 50.025.
23, (38), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 4:17.382, 31.582.
24, (16), Phil Parlato(T), Commack, N.Y., BMW 325i, no time.
25, (31), Jameson Riley, Wilton, Conn., Volvo S40, no time.
26, (60), Fred Pignataro(T), East Northport, N.Y., BMW 325i, no time.

Posted On 7/20/07

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SCCA Now Accepting Nominations for 2008 Hall of Fame Class

Thu, 19 Jul 2007 07:00:26 PST

SCCA Now Accepting Nominations for 2008 Hall of Fame Class
By Erin Cechal, SCCA

TOPEKA, Kan. (July 19, 2007) - Do you know someone who has made an enduring impact on the Sports Car Club of America? If so, consider nominating that member to the SCCA Hall of Fame.

The purpose of the SCCA Hall of Fame is to preserve, protect and record the SCCA's accomplishments and history for current and future members, through recognizing those who have made a significant impact on the development of the Club. When it comes to Hall of Fame nominations, the candidate's impact on the Club is paramount. Whether it be contributions through a lifetime or one decision that altered the course of SCCA history, the Nominating Committee is in search of those members who have forever changed the face of SCCA.

Every year the Nomination Committee receives more than 100 nominations, from which 15 candidates are chosen. Nominees from the previous year carry over, but resubmitting can only improve one's chances. From the pool of 15, the Selection Committee chooses five distinguished individuals to induct into the Hall of Fame. In 2008, the five inductees will be recognized at the SCCA National Convention, held in San Antonio in February.

Nominations can be sent to Howard Duncan at hduncan@scca.com or Aimee Thoennes at athoennes@scca.com. The deadline for nominations is September 10th.

If you personally have an interest in preserving and honoring the SCCA heritage, why not become a member of either Committee? Up to six Club members sit on each Committee as well as a member of the SCCA National Office staff and the Club Archivist. There are no requirements to apply and members are rotated every three years. Interested parties can submit a letter and SCCA resume to Howard Duncan at the above email or by mail to P.O. Box 19400, Topeka, KS 66619.

Should you find yourself in the Topeka area, stop by the SCCA National Office to see plaques representing all of the Hall of Fame members through 2007.

Posted On 7/19/07

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Beebe Racing And Tony Ave Head To Sebring For American GT Debut

Wed, 18 Jul 2007 09:54:41 PST

Beebe Racing And Tony Ave Head To Sebring For American GT Debut
By Tony Febles

Tony Ave looks to add to his team's tally of track records and race victories for GT-1/ AGT based machines at the next round of AGT competition in Sebring FL during the second week in August. Driving the Tony Ave Racing built and prepared C6 Corvette bodied TAR-RJ/001 chassis owned by Larry and Debbie Beebe, Ave has been unbeaten since partnering with Pro-Motor Engines of Mooresville, NC. "Pro-Motor supplied my Nextel Cup and ARCA engines in the past, so I knew what they are capable of," says the former World Pro-Sprint Snowmobile champion. "We are committed to being involved as a chassis manufacturer and race team utilizing these types of race cars, so I wanted to make sure we gave ourselves the best opportunity to win." So far in 2007 Ave holds new track records at the Sebring short course, Savannah's Roebling Road, Road Atlanta, Daytona, and most recently Road America, where the team dominated the prestigious June Sprints. Of returning to his SCCA racing roots, Ave says "I really miss the Trans-Am series, but GT-1 has gotten pretty intense now, with Rocketsports, Derhaag, and Simms Motorsports putting out serious efforts. Hopefully AGT can capitalize on the situation and grow into something we can pursue on a full time basis in 2008. We are committed to doing the SCCA Run-Offs this season, and are using Sebring to test a slightly detuned engine package that may work better at Topeka, but make no mistake; we are going there to win."

Round 5 of the AGT Inter-Americas Challenge is set for August 11-12 at Sebring International Raceway. For more info visit: www.americangt.com , www.tonyave.com or contact Jill Peeters at Tony Ave Racing.

Posted On 7/18/07

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Changes Underway Heartland Park Begins Course Re-Configuration

Wed, 18 Jul 2007 01:08:07 PST

Changes Underway Heartland Park Begins Course Re-Configuration
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (July 18, 2007) Following the April 23 announcement that it would make two significant changes to the 2.5-mile course used for the SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T, Heartland Park Topeka broke ground Monday, with a targeted debut of the new course configuration set for mid-August.

The project focuses on the actual course configuration in the Turn One-Two complex as well as the Turn Eight-Nine section. Additionally, changes are well underway to the curbs, barriers and runoff areas around the remainder of the course.

"Following last weekend's SCCA Regional races, we began to move walls and dirt in preparation for the planned changes," Heartland Park Topeka Owner Raymond Irwin said. "Barring something unforeseen, this gives us a month to accomplish the changes before the final SCCA National of the season August 18-19."

In addition to the course changes documented in the previous announcement, several other items will be addressed, including:

Extension of the asphalt from the exit of turn 14 up the front straight.
Opening an escape road on driver's right just past the start/finish line.
Extension of apex and track-out curbing around the course.
Addition of several tire walls and additional rows to existing tire walls.
Removal of the wall at the exit of Turn Five.
Moving the wall at the exit of turn 10 (drivers left) back several feet.

The 2007 SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by at&t will be held at Heartland Park Topeka Oct. 8-14. For additional event information, click here. For more information about Heartland Park Topeka, please visit www.hpt.com.

Attached image: Work begins at Heartland Park Topeka
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 7/18/07

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Formula TR PRO Series - Rounds 11 & 12 Recap

Tue, 17 Jul 2007 06:55:52 PST

Formula TR PRO Series - Rounds 11 & 12 Recap
By Mike Mills, ADZEN

The Formula TR PRO Series visited Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah for Rounds 11 and 12 of its 20 round 2007 1600 and 2000 Championships on July 13 and 14 supporting the NASCAR Grand National West Series.

The championships in both the FR1600's and FR2000's were close with the potential for changes in the standings very real coming into these two rounds for the series. Every driver and team are focused on the series championships and positioning now before the first of three double points events of the series coming up next at Willow Springs in August.

Thursday July 12 was a promoter's test day and all 15 Formula TR PRO Series entrants took advantage of the opportunity to test and tune on the 3.06 mile outside loop course being used for the event. Many discovered how fickle the weather around the Great Salt Lake can be when they headed onto the track for a test session and the sky simply opened up and a deluge fell upon the track, everyone quickly returned to the pits for rain tires, if they had them. All the teams were now forewarned to be ready for anything.

The #50 FR2000, Knudsen Racing entry of Jeremy Braun arrived with a fresh paint scheme of yellow and black that is very distinguishable on the track. The #7 FR2000, Knudsen Racing entry of John Knudsen showed up with the Formula Renault 2007 update kit and a fresh paint job too. The 2007 update kit for the FR2000's features a completely new set of body panels and underbody tray along with a new nose and rear wing end plates that are based upon the aerodynamic shapes incorporated in the Renault F1 cars. The Formula TR PRO Series allows the update but has imposed a weight penalty to equalize the FR2000 entries.

This was the first weekend for the new, cost reducing, change for the FR1600's limitation of one set of new tires for all qualifying sessions and races rather than allowing a new set for each qualifying and associated race. Everyone was keen to see how this would effect lap times and overall competitiveness in the FR1600 Championship.

Chris Keller joined the FR1600 championship in the #85 JP Motorsports entry after successfully completing his licensing evaluation at Buttonwillow Raceway during the previous event.

The bad luck story of the weekend belonged to the #3 FR2000, Position One Motorsports entry of Luis Martinez Jr. In an early testing session on Thursday the car suffered a catastrophic engine failure, something quite unusual in these normally very reliable race cars. The Position One Motorsports team had a complete spare car and proceeded to transplant the engine from the spare into the #3 car, a task that was completed by the end of Thursday. Friday morning, on the first lap of the practice session the car got away from Martinez Jr., and just clipped a tire barrier; again another rare incident since the track has abundant runoff areas providing great safety margins for both driver and car. The damage was repaired for the qualifying session and Martinez Jr. was prepared, however, this time the car suffered a tire failure. The series has specific rules regarding replacing tires and when replacing the failed tire the rules were not followed resulting in a loss of the Martinez Jr.'s #3 qualifying times relegating him to starting Round 11 from the back of the field. For Round 12 another tire failure struck as Martinez Jr. entered the front straight heading for the white flag indicating the beginning of the last lap, ending his race one lap early.

Tires were the Achilles heel of the weekend with 5 cars suffering tire failures throughout the competition. Once again, a very unusual circumstance for the Formula TR PRO Series where reliability is simply expected based upon superior prior performance.

Round 11 Recap

Qualifying revealed how competitive and consistent the cars were with less than 5/100's separating the top two FR1600's, Joshua Goshen, #83 Goshen Motorsports, 2:01.256; Sergio Pena, #58 JP Motorsports, 2:01.264. And close behind Kristin Braun, #70 Kimball Williams Racing, 2:02.301; Ryan Booth, #4 Knudsen Racing, 2:02.133 and newcomer Chris Keller, #85 JP Motorsports with a respectable 2:03.801.

Thirteen year old Joshua Goshen took his first pole in his open wheel racing career by 8/1000's of a second and collected a point for securing the pole for the FR1600's.

The FR2000's were equally competitive with the first three qualifiers within 6/10's, Bill Goshen, #82 Goshen Racing, 1:51.404; John Knudsen, #7 Knudsen Racing, 1:51.578; Liam Kenney, #95 Liam Kenney Racing, 1:52.170. The other FR2000 competitors were tight as well with Luis Martinez Jr., #3 Position One Motorsports, 1:55.150;

Christian Franck, #16 Knudsen Racing, 1:55.205; Paul Mashoff, #00 Paladin Motorsports, 1:56.282; Dino Bruno, #33 Team Bruno, 1:56.524; Kerry Lynch, #6 Knudsen Racing, 1:56691; Jim Booth, #5 Knudesn Racing, 1:56.806; and Jeremy Braun, #50 Goshen Racing posting no time due to a failed fuel pump on the out lap of qualifying.

Grid changes due to tire rules moved FR1600 competitor Kristin Braun and FR2000 driver Luis Martinez Jr. to the rear of their respective grids for the Round 11 race.

The beginning of the Round 11 race was remarkable, as the cars were leaving the pit lane for the formation lap a FR2000 slowed and the cars immediately following slowed in response causing the classic 'accordion' effect that resulted in Paul Mashoff, #00 Paladin Racing, contacting Christian Franck, #16 Knudsen Racing, hard on the gearbox. Christian's car suffered no damage but the front wings and nose of Mashoff's car were severely damaged and he was unable to complete the formation lap. The start was delayed for two laps while Mashoff's car was removed from the course by the safety crew.

The start was clean with the cars going three wide into the first turn at the end of the 3500 foot front straight. In the FR2000's John Knudsen who had started from the second position suffered a tire failure on the first lap forcing a pit stop. Bill Goshen maintained his position at the front of the field at the end of the first lap with Jeremy Braun advancing five places, Bruno advancing three positions, Martinez Jr. advancing two positions and Kenney moving up one spot. At the end of the third lap the positions were pretty much sorted out for the race with Bill Goshen solidly in first, Kenney in second and Jeremy Braun advancing one more position to third, Franck in fourth, Martinez Jr. moving up to fifth, Bruno in sixth, charging from his unscheduled pit stop Knudsen made it to seventh position to collect valuable points to retain his lead in the championship, Jim Booth and Kerry Lynch finished eighth and ninth respectively. Knudsen did set fast race lap, collecting another championship point.

In the 1600 battle, Ryan Booth jumped to the head of the FR1600's from his fourth place grid position with an outstanding start and Kristin Braun moved to past Keller to fourth. Lap two saw Joshua Goshen passed Pena to take second position and in lap three Kristin Braun moved past Pena for third. Pena recaptured third in the fifth lap. The next three laps were the classic "wait for someone to make a mistake' scenario and it happened on lap 10 with Ryan Booth spinning and dropping to fourth place and then Keller headed for the pits when his shift cable broke. When the checkered came out, Joshua Goshen had a sweep with the pole and his premier first place and set fast race lap. Pena finished second, Kristin Braun third and Ryan Booth fourth and Keller fifth.

At the end of Round 11 the brothers Goshen stood on the top step of their respective podiums making this the high point of the weekend for many.

Round 12 Recap

Competitive and consistency amplified in Round 12.

The FR1600's were again close with Sergio Pena, #58 JP Motorsports, on the pole with a time of 2:00.922 followed by Joshua Goshen, #83 Goshen Racing, 2:01.597; Chris Keller, JP Motorsports, 2:02.143; Ryan Booth, #4 Knudsen Racing, 2:02.209; and Kristin Braun, #70 Kimball Williams Racing, 2:02.543. Post qualifying technical inspection found Chris Keller's FR1600 1 pound under the minimum weight allowed by the Formula TR PRO series and he was moved to the back of the grid as a result.

FR2000 qualifying saw laps being turned within tenths showing that consistency was building as the drivers increased their familiarity with the track. John Knudsen, #7 Knudsen Racing, captured the poll and the precious point with a lap at 1:51.632; Liam Kenney, #95 Liam Kenney Motorsports, was second quickest with a lap at 1:51.821; Bill Goshen, #82 Goshen Racing, captured third grid position with a quick lap of 1:51.831. The top three separated by less than 2/10's of a second. Next was Jeremy Braun, #50 Goshen Racing, fourth with a 1:52.313; Luis Martinez Jr., #3 Position One Motorsports, fifth, 1:52.978; Christian Franck, #16 Knudesn Racing, sixth, 1:53.067; Dino Bruno, #33 Team Bruno, seventh, 1:54.469; Kerry Lynch, #6 Knudsen Racing, eighth, 1:55.892; Jim Booth, #5 Knudsen Racing, ninth, 1:56.261; Paul Mashoff, #00 Paladin Motorsports, tenth, 1:56.917.

The start had none of the drama of the previous round with the green flag waving on the first pass past the starter stand. Again the field moved though the fast first turn three, perhaps four wide but without contact. The only spin was Paul Mashoff, FR2000 #00, who rejoined the race after all cars had passed.

The FR2000's made the first pass by the finish line with Jeremy Braun, Martinez Jr., Lynch and Jim Booth each moving up on position and Mashoff in the pits with a tire failure. In the second lap Jeremy Braun moved up another position as did Bruno. In the third lap Jeremy Braun spun and fell to the back of the FR2000 field and began his assault on the field to regain positions and points. The first three cars proceeded to run the next several laps only a few car lengths apart, at times inches apart. Using the draft Bill Goshen passed Knudsen at the end of the 3500 foot long front straight to take first place and hold on to it for the checkered as well as setting fast race lap. Kenney was also able to pass Knudsen on the next lap to secure second place while Knudsen was able to hang on to third place. Christian Franck crossed the finish line in fourth followed by Jeremy Braun who climbed back from his spin to last to finish fifth; Bruno crossed the line in sixth; Lynch was next in seventh; Jim Booth came in eighth; Paul Mashoff recovered from his tire failure to finish ninth; and Martinez Jr. suffered a tire failure on the next to last lap retiring him from the race, finishing tenth.

The FR1600 race opened with Pena taking the lead and Kristin Braun slipping past pole sitter Joshua Goshen on the start. Kristin Braun seized the lead from Pena in turn one the following lap and held on for the next three laps when she bobbled and slipped to second and then again, slipping to fifth. Chris Keller drove a steady race moving from last to third. The final order was Pena, first; Joshua Goshen, second; Chris Keller, third with the fastest race lap; Ryan Booth, fourth; and Kristin Braun, fifth.

Both the Goshen brothers visited the podium again for Round 12.

There was no definitive answer to the new tire rule for the FR1600's. The cars qualified with quicker lap times for Round 12 than they recorded for Round 11 when the tires were fresh but the drivers less familiar with the track. A few more weekends will be needed before the question can be answered completely.

The championship point standings after these two rounds of the 2007 Formula TR PRO Series finds a change with Liam Kenney moving into third place in the FR2000 championship.

Formula TR 2000 - R12/20: 1st Knudsen (328), 2nd Goshen (324), 3rd Kenney (278), 4th Martinez Jr. (272), 5th Franck (266), 6th Booth (222), 7th Lynch (206), 8th Bruno (201), 9th Braun (179), 10th Siska (153)

Formula TR 1600 - R12/20: 1st Pena (361), 2nd Booth (330), 3rd Goshen (286), 4th Braun (204), 5th Snider (186), 6th Smutny (120), 7th Munoz (72), 8th Keller (50)

The next two rounds (13-14) of the Formula TR PRO Series 2007 Championship takes place August 11-12 at Willow Springs Raceway, Rosamond, California. These two races are double points races providing the opportunity for the competitors to make significant improvement in their standing for the championship in their class.

About Formula TR
Formula TR (Tatuus Renault) provides a development series for young drivers progressing from karting into professional formula car racing as early as age 14. The series was established in 2002 and features both 1600cc and 2000cc carbon fiber open wheel chassis built by Tatuus and powered by Renault. The series consists of 20 races conducted over 10 weekends at tracks throughout the western US. Visit www.FormulaTR.com for more information.

About Adzen
Adzen is a motor sport marketing and management company which provides marketing support for drivers, series, and events as well as website design and update services. Learn more about Adzen at www.adzen.biz

Posted On 7/17/07

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SCCA ProSolo Finale Registration Dates and Times Announced

Tue, 17 Jul 2007 06:47:58 PST

SCCA ProSolo Finale Registration Dates and Times Announced
By Erin Cechal, SCCA

TOPEKA, Kan. (July 17, 2007) The Sports Car Club of America has announced registration details for the 2007 Tire Rack SCCA ProSolo Finale.

Registration for the 2007 ProSolo Finale will open at 10 a.m. (CDT) on Wednesday, August 1, for any of the 115 pre-qualified competitors listed on the ProSolo Finale event page at www.scca.com. The list is based on finishing position in the 2006 ProSolo Finale and point standings. Registration will then close at noon on Monday, August 6.

The next wave of registration reopens on Tuesday, August 28, for any of the pre-qualified competitors that did not take advantage of the first opportunity and those competitors who have participated in at least two 2007 ProSolo events and have thus qualified for the ProSolo Finale. The second round of registration will close Wednesday, September 5.

On the final day of registration, the SCCA Solo Department will determine whether single-event participants will be allowed to enter the ProSolo Finale. In previous years, these competitors were allowed to enter in a special index class.

Entry for this year's ProSolo Finale is $115. In addition to online registration at www.scca.com, Soloists can register by printing out the entry form and faxing it to the SCCA national office at (785) 232-7215. Registration may also be done over the phone, for an additional $50, by calling 1-800-770-2055. The entry cap for the event is set at 250.

The 2007 ProSolo Finale will take place September 21-22 at Heartland Park Topeka in Kansas. Without a point system this season, the event will be winner takes all. Champions will be crowned at a banquet on Sunday, September 23.

For more information about the 2007 ProSolo Finale, visit www.scca.com.

Attached image: Registration for the 2007 ProSolo Finale is just around the corner.
Credit: John Steflik

Posted On 7/17/07

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Joey Hand Joins BimmerWorld For Remainder Of 2007 Season

Mon, 16 Jul 2007 06:43:05 PST

Joey Hand Joins BimmerWorld For Remainder Of 2007 Season
By Bimmerworld Media Services

American Le Mans Star Returns To His BMW Roots; Joins SPEED Touring Car Series Starting at Mid-Ohio this weekend.

In a bid to demonstrate the strength and development of the BimmerWorld-built BMW E90's racing in the SPEED World Challenge series, BimmerWorld owner and driver James Clay announced the addition of former BMW North America factory racer Joey Hand to his team for the final four races of the 2007 SPEED Touring Car season, starting with the next round held at the Mid-Ohio track, July 20-22.

Clay, opting to put Hand in the #37 BimmerWorld car while he sits out the round to concentrate on the completion of his new #36 BMW E90, is excited to show the drivers and teams in the series how competitive BimmerWorld's Seth Thomas in the #38 and Hand in the #37 can be. "2007 has been a season of bad luck so far for us. If we are going to play the odds, then I have decided to run an additional car to increase our chances at finishing the season strongly. Joey is one of the best BMW drivers in the world; we worked well together when I was in charge of a BMW North America Diesel race car Joey drove, so he was a logical choice for the #37 car."

With Joey Hand's deal already in place, and only eight days to prep all three BimmerWorld cars for Mid-Ohio, including the lengthy upgrade to the teams new dry sump oiling systems, James Clay will be forced to leave his helmet behind, and just wear his owner's hat this weekend. "We have been fighting an engine oiling issue this year and have had a couple of mechanical issues in the last two events that hurt our results. After Toronto, we made the decision to go to a dry sump system to solve the problem for good and it is a bit of a rush to change over all the cars before Ohio and we will not have the third converted; our crew is already working flat out as it is. Having already made the commitment with Joey, he will be in the car and I will be in the new third car for Mosport when our dry sump oiling systems are finished for all three BimmerWorld E90's. Mosport can't come soon enough for me"

With the team expanding to three cars for the final three races, Clay's even more excited to show what the Thomas/Hand/Clay driving trio can deliver as the season comes to a close. "I expect big things. The cars have been fast and our only mechanical issue is now addressed, so it is just a matter of having a few things go our way. It will be nice to have a very solid three car team again. With Joey's technical and setup expertise, we should finish out the season very strong and make a few visits to the winner's circle!"

With Hand's excitement of returning to a fast BMW race car, surprisingly, the open-wheel, GT, and prototype veteran will be making his first foray into the World Challenge series. It's something Joey's been waiting for the right competitive opportunity to come together--with BimmerWorld, a perfect situation arose that he had to accept. "James and I have been talking about working together for a while, but our schedules never allow it. With these last four ALMS races partnered with the SPEED World Challenge series, the scheduling part took care of itself. As James mentioned, we clicked working together before, and I think that when all's said and done, we both just want to win."

Hand's unique positioning in the BMW racing community as a factory driver, and as someone that's demonstrated an ability to climb into any new car and be on the pace immediately are two areas he knows he's expected to bring to his new BimmerWorld E90 race car. "I've turned a lot of BMW wheels, both as a factory driver and for privateers; while I have limited experience in the new E90 chassis James is developing, I've found that most BMW's have similar handling, setup, and driving traits. Being able to climb into the BimmerWorld car and step on it right away is part of what James expects. I'd like to think I'm also known for making the cars I drive better through testing and improving the setup. I'm excited to work with Seth and James on this as a team."

New to the World Challenge series, Hand relishes the opportunity to stay in the driver's seat for the entire race-something he can't do in the other series he competes in. "I love the sprint race format in World Challenge; In the American Le Mans series we have to do driver changes and share the driving duties. Here, I can give it my all for fifty minutes straight. I'm used to the sprint race format and standing starts from my years in Karting and in Formula Atlantic, so it will be a welcomed return to what I love."

Hand will also have the challenge of pulling double duty in the final four races as he will compete in both the SPEED TC with BimmerWorld and in the GT2 category of the American Le Mans series. Having made a career driving many different types of cars, Hand doesn't see an issue adapting from his ALMS car to his BimmerWorld Touring Car, and vice versa. "I'm not concerned about hopping back and forth between cars, but it will be a little bit dicey with limited time between ALMS and World Challenge sessions. My co-driver in the ALMS series won't be at Mid-Ohio until Saturday, which means I'll be doing all the test driving there myself, and then doing the World Challenge test sessions. I'll certainly be earning my keep this weekend..."

BimmerWorld driver Seth Thomas has delivered the team's best qualifying and race performance so far this year, and sees the addition of Joey Hand to BimmerWorld as nothing but a boost to his and the team's chances for success. "Having a great driver like Joey joining forces with us will be nothing but a win for BimmerWorld and BMW. Joey will definitely feel at home with the BimmerWorld team and the BMW E90-it's a great car and I can't wait for us to start working together. I think Joey joining the team starting at Mid Ohio will bring us the one extra step we need in the program to bring us to the top."

BimmerWorld Media Services
mediaservices@bimmerworld.com

Posted On 7/16/07

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In The Race For Off-Track Vehicle Development, BimmerWorld Shifts Into High Gear

Fri, 13 Jul 2007 10:49:00 PST

In The Race For Off-Track Vehicle Development, BimmerWorld Shifts Into High Gear
By Bimmerworld Media Services

SPEED Touring Car team takes the engineering lead; gets closer to bringing the new BMW 325i to victory circle.

Building, preparing, and running a racing car in a professional series is a never ending process of clawing and scratching for ways to improve that car. The rapid pace of development and improvement for teams within the SCCA SPEED World Challenge series is no different.

BimmerWorld Racing of Dublin, Virginia faces the unique challenge of not only having to keep pace with their factory-backed rivals in the SPEED Touring Car series, but are also challenged to lead the charge to extract and engineer the maximum performance from their unique new generation BMW 325i racers.

While the older BMW 3-series E46 chassis is still a popular car to race, BimmerWorld chose a familiar path for the company, opting to build, develop, and race the new BMW E90 chassis in-house.

The BimmerWorld E90's racers debuted in 2006, and despite them showing a lot of potential in the hands of driver Seth Thomas and BimmerWorld owner/driver James Clay, the entire team understood it would take some time for all of E90's potential to be realized. With a number of starts from the top-5 in 2007, and a best finish of 5th, it's clear that the development path to deliver the E90 to victory circle is getting clearer race by race.

To catch us up on where BimmerWorld has led the E90 racing development path from the end of the 2006 season through the last race at Toronto, James Clay opened the doors to discuss some of the unique mechanical attributes and innovations his BimmerWorld crew and partners have employed to date.

James--can you walk us through the major mechanical, drivetrain, and engineering updates to the BimmerWorld E90's going into the first race of the 2007 season at Sebring?

"Weight was one big focus. We did a lot of work in that area over the winter. It's amazing -- we put more than 400 hours of labor into each E90 shell when we first built the cars, focusing intensely on weight reduction. This past winter, we still somehow managed to pull out another 50 pounds. All of our E90's now easily meet the mandated minimum weight.

"The next concentration was on the suspension geometry. With a little help from BMW Motorsport, we corrected some issues induced by lowering the stock E90 suspension more than four inches. From this, and most importantly, the rear of the car now handles and works the way we want it to, and uses reasonable spring rates so we have some compliance to get us out of the turns quickly.

"Another focus was the driveline and gearing. We switched transmissions to a BMW Motorsport H-pattern 'dogbox.' This box gives us better gear selection and quicker shifts - an upshift now takes a little over a tenth of a second. We had a bit of a learning curve with the new transmission; compared to the stellar race starts we've had in previous years with the old 'box, it's taken a bit of experience to get the same great launches with the new unit. Diffsonline also came through with a new limited-slip differential carrier assembly that is very smooth and easy to modulate. It's really helped us to improve and focus on our rolling speed through the corners."

What was developed after Sebring in the two month gap between races?

"We really didn't have a lot of development work to do in this stretch. We were super busy over the winter and it was nice to just relax a little and catch our breath! We were still doing some fine-tuning on the driveline, but really, the cars were fast and ready to race. Our BimmerWorld crew members work incredibly hard-it's important to keep pushing to improve the cars, but it's also important to pause every now and then, review what can be done better, and charge your batteries to make the next steps in development.

"Racecar development runs in a cycle-first you conceive an idea or ideas in our case, fabricate and implement those changes on the cars, test those ideas on the track, and based upon the results of those tests, be it in a race or on a private test day, you develop a list of new developments to pursue, and a list of improvements or tweaks to the development items you just tested. It's a never ending process, but one we welcome and love.

With a lot of new parts and pieces on the cars, we decided that more track testing was the best development focus for us after Sebring--we were able to get some additional testing in at Road Atlanta, as well as Watkins Glen and a day in Reno to refine the setups, learn more about the chassis, and prepare us for the rest of the races in the season."

BimmerWorld then hit upon a busy patch of races at Miller Motorsports Park in Utah, Lime Rock in Connecticut, a double event at Watkins Glen in New York, and then in Toronto last weekend. How have the E90's developed over this five week span?

"Well...to put it gently, we were able to find the weak links in the cars. Since our first Watkins Glen outing in testing, we've had an engine oiling issue arise. We saw the problem very lightly last year and thought some changes to the bottom end had resolved the issue, at Watkins Glen last month we were right back where we started. The up-and-down nature of the track is unique, and exposed the oil feed issue like we hadn't seen at the other tracks this year.

"In this short time period, we've gone through several iterations of oil pumps and pans. BMW has a very crafty variable pressure pump that is great for the complex N54 engine in normal use, but it means a long recovery delay to the oil pressure if or when pressure drops.

"After re-engineering this, we were left trying to keep oil in the pickup. We added Accusumps, which also added weight to the car. We then added more and more baffles, and trap doors were then added to the stock steel pans. Then we finally went to a larger sump aluminum pan for Toronto with extensions, about 6 baffles, and several more trapdoors. The result still left us low on oil pressure."

Toronto last weekend was obviously a frustrating one for you--you've mentioned some big improvements for the upcoming Mid-Ohio round that should hopefully stem the oiling issues that knocked you out of Toronto. What are those changes, and I also hear a rumor that those developments will be carried out in a new E90 chassis?

"It's amazing. A wet sump system may not be the best oiling system, but it can usually be made to be functional. In the SPEED Touring Car E90's, and after multiple engine issues and an aggressive development program (which unfortunately, must be conducted on-track with realistic G loads) we are choosing to abandon the wet sump oiling configuration. The wet sump is simply not supplying the oil the E90's engine needs at all times and under any running condition. It's time for something different.

"We are going to implement a dry-sump system which will provide a constant supply of oil to the engine. I feel that at this point without a dry sump, we are really gambling on whether or not our engines will last; with the dry sump, we hope to have bulletproof engine reliability. We've taken the wet sump development as far as it can go in our E90's, so it's on to something new and improved for Mid-Ohio and beyond.

"With only 8 shop days between races this time, we are very rushed to make this unplanned change. I had hoped to be in a new E90 chassis we've been building to debut at Mid Ohio, but there simply is not time to make the modifications required on all three cars."

What can we expect from James Clay and BimmerWorld as the season moves toward the finish line?

"We have a new driver that has signed onto the team for the remainder of the season. Since I am not in the points battle this year, I will have to watch from the sidelines until after Mid-Ohio when the new dry sump will be installed in my new chassis. It's a one-race hiatus for me, but in my role as team owner and team manager, I have to put my energies into getting our new dry sump configuration implemented and sorted out immediately. With that done, and my new car done, we're looking to aggressively attacking the last three races with a VERY formidable three car BMW E90 team."

With the announcement of BimmerWorld's new driver early next week, the team's plans for the rest of 2007 will be even more clear: to unleash the winning potential of the BimmerWorld E90's with the best crew and drivers possible.

PHOTO CREDIT: BimmerWorld

BimmerWorld Media Services
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Posted On 7/13/07

Comments

mdadgar says:
7/14/07 14:22

Cool insight into how Bimmerworld approaches car development. Neat!

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Edison Lluch Jr. Continues His "Choke Hold" On The Points Lead Wins Both Races at Nashville

Fri, 13 Jul 2007 04:42:07 PST

Edison Lluch Jr. Continues His "Choke Hold" On The Points Lead Wins Both Races at Nashville
By Tony Febles, American GT

Lebanon, TN (July 8, 2007) Edison Lluch Jr in the Coors Light Corvette won both races of Round Four of the American GT Inter-Americas Challenge at Nashville Superspeedway in the AGT's first ever night race "Nashville Under The Lights". Edison Jr was followed in the first race by his father Edison Lluch Sr. who had won the pole and held the fastest lap time for the whole weekend with his spectacular qualifying effort. However, the Sr. Lluch in the Don Q Rums Corvette finished 4 seconds behind Jr. in the Coors Light Corvette in the first heat race with Mark Shaffer finishing third on the podium in his return to the AGTRRA series with his new car the yellow # 21 Foddrill Fabrication/Great Cars and Trucks Mustang.

The second heat race saw Edisto repeat a win followed by Mark in his Mustang taking second and Frank Ciopettinni grabbing third place in his # 6 Clover Enterprises Chevrolet Camaro. With his two wins of the weekend, Edisto continues his AGT Inter-America's Challenge Grand Championship points lead and takes the opening round of the Southern Tour to be the earlier points leader for the Southeast Division Championship title as well. He has already secured the Northeast Division Championship title with his outstanding performances in Mosport and Watkins Glen scoring the highest amount of points in those NE Division races. Will this dominance continue? Is this a case of "a chip off the old block" with Edison Jr following in his father's footsteps after all Edison Sr. is the series two time defending champion and his past 2 season performances were equally as dominating in effect. They say the apple doesn't fall far from the tree and the father son team of the Lluchs may well be living proof.

The AGTRRA continues the AGT Southern Tour with "The Shoot-Out AT Sebring" on the schedule for August 10-11, 2007 in Sebring, Florida. Will the south rise again and see a local "southerner" come out on top and challenge Edisto for the coveted SE Division title or will he continue to roll over his competition as the AGT heats up and heads farther south into Florida for Round Five of the AGT Inter-America's Challenge.

For more information visit us at: www.americangt.com.

Posted On 7/13/07

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Thrilling SPEED World Challenge Toronto Races Air on Saturday

Thu, 12 Jul 2007 05:20:38 PST

Thrilling SPEED World Challenge Toronto Races Air on Saturday
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (July 12, 2007) As if visiting the streets of Exhibition Place for the first time wasn't exciting enough, mother nature decided to chime in at Toronto and throw some rain into the mix. This weekend on SPEED, watch all the slipping, sliding and hard-fought racing, as SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge arrives at the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto.

The SCCA SPEED Touring Car field rolls onto the Toronto grid with rain tires, but will be searching for puddles by the race's end. Canadian Kuno Wittmer leads the field away from the grid in his Acura RSX, but even his extensive circuit knowledge can't save him from a slick Turn Three. Ian Baas also gets into trouble early in the race, but charges from the back of the pack in his Audi A4 to challenge Pierre Kleinubing and Peter Cunningham for the win in an intense late-race battle. The SCCA Touring Car race airs on SPEED, Saturday, July 14, at 11 a.m. (EDT), with replays on Monday, July 16, at 3 a.m., and Wednesday, July 18, at 2 p.m.

As the SCCA SPEED GT cars arrive on the gird so does the rain, and teams must make the agonizing decision about tire changes. Randy Pobst makes a clean getaway, but plenty of drama is unfolding behind him, as drivers struggle to find grip in the continuously changing conditions. The SCCA SPEED GT race airs on SPEED, Saturday, July 14, at 12 p.m. (EDT), with replays at 4 a.m., Monday, July 16, and 3 p.m. on Wednesday, July 18.

For more information visit www.world-challenge.com

Attached image: Michael Galati and Ron Fellows go side-by-side at the start of the SCCA SPEED GT race in Toronto.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 7/12/07

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Exclusive SCCA SPEED World Challenge Piloti Shoes Are Back

Thu, 12 Jul 2007 05:16:48 PST

Exclusive SCCA SPEED World Challenge Piloti Shoes Are Back
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (July 12, 2007) It's Christmas in July for SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge fans, as the second run of the exclusive SPEED World Challenge Piloti Spyder SV is now available for purchase.

The sleek and comfortable Spyder SV pays homage to the most electrifying production car racing in the world by using the series' signature red, black and silver colors. The famous SPEED World Challenge logo can also be found on the shoe's sock liner.

"The SPEED World Challenge Spyder SV is the perfect shoe for any motorsports fan," SCCA Vice President of Marketing and Communications Eric Prill said. "They look sharp and are incredibly comfortable, the kind of performance our SCCA Pro Racing Staff need on a busy race weekend. It also makes them the perfect footware for a SPEED World Challenge fan."

For the second year in-a-row, Piloti is the exclusive footware supplier to SCCA Pro Racing. Piloti is also recognized as the preferred provider to all SPEED World Challenge race teams.

"A series as competitive and exciting as SCCA Pro Racing's SPEED World Challenge needs a shoe to match," Piloti CEO and Founder Kevin Beard said. "The exclusive Spyder SV we've created does just that, combining SPEED World Challenge's vibrant color scheme with our patented Roll Control heel and enhanced cushioning mid-sole for all-day comfort. We're proud to produce a product that caters to the SPEED World Challenge enthusiast as well as the entire SCCA Pro Racing paddock."

Fans can get their exclusive SCCA SPEED World Challenge Piloti Spyder SVs for $75 through SCCA's official merchandise partner, Imperial Marketing, at www.sccacollection.com or by calling 1-888-267-2187.

Attached image: The exclusive SCCA SPEED World Challenge Piloti Spyder SVs.

Posted On 7/12/07

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Watkins Glen Propels both BSI Cars into the Top-10

Thu, 12 Jul 2007 12:06:38 PST

Watkins Glen Propels both BSI Cars into the Top-10
By Lauren Liebowitz

Ormond Beach, FL - July 12 -- After completing the three hour endurance KONI Challenge race at the 3.4 mile Watkins Glen International race track, BSI Racing took home another top-10 race finish. Todd Buras and Christian Miller finished 8th in the No. 56 Mazda MX-5, Joe Gibbs/MOMO race car in the KONI Challenge Super Cuts 200 Saturday afternoon. Teammates Justin Hall and Magnus Karlsson finished 17th in the No. 58 JustRacing.com/Joe Gibbs/ MOMO Mazda MX-5. BSI Racing now holds both cars in the top-10 with points. The No. 58 is in 8th place and the No. 56 is in 9th place.

Buras and Miller ran a smooth race without encountering any problems. Miller took the first stint and was impressed with the roadster’s handling. Miller has been competing in the KONI Challenge all season but this race marks his first experience teaming up with BSI Racing. “The team is great, the whole experience is great and very professional and the car is predictable over the long run,” said Miller. “They are great cars to run in for endurance racing and very light.” Miller turned the car over to Buras during a yellow caution lap. Buras raced the No. 56 without a mistake and finished under the checkered flag in 8th place. Miller will be returning to BSI Racing for the next KONI Challenge event at the Barber Motorsports Park.

The No. 58 car’s race results were a little off from their typical top-10 finishing. The car took home a DNF after on track damage and battery issues retired the car early. At the start of the race Karlsson was turning his fastest laps during his entire stint at the Glen. Then on lap 32 Karlsson hit the tire wall at turn six. The race car was towed off track and the team tried to salvage some of the damage so co-driver Hall could turn some laps. Hall was able to lay down a few laps but ultimately drove the car into the team’s canopy before race finish.

BSI Racing appreciates support from MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development, KONI, Joe Gibbs Racing Oil, MOMO, SPEEDCOM Communications, BBS, Creative Motorsports Solutions, JustRacing.com and Sun Belt Performance Engines.

BSI Racing offers race car preparation, trackside support, fabrication, and parts for the Mazda MX-5. The race team will be campaigning Mazda MX-5 cars in the KONI Challenge Series and participating in the 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup.

For information on MX-5 rental and ownership programs, visit www.bsiracing.com
For information on Team Garcia visit: www.teamgarciaracing.com

Posted On 7/12/07

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Milwaukee National Tour Produces Repeat Winners, Family Victories

Tue, 10 Jul 2007 11:57:01 PST

Milwaukee National Tour Produces Repeat Winners, Family Victories
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Racing

MILWAUKEE, Wis. (July 10, 2007) More than 250 Soloists arrived at Miller Field, home of Major League Baseball's Milwaukee Brewers, for the penultimate stop on the 2007 Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Tour. As the season winds down, Soloists from across the central states and beyond were aiming to hit one out of the park before the rapidly approaching Solo Nationals.

With the hot and humid Wisconsin July making conditions a bit brutal, participants were able to grin and bare it thanks to some first-class Midwest hospitality by the Milwaukee Region. More challenging than the weather were the Steve Wyveen-designed courses that threw plenty of intense technical maneuvers at the competitors.

Wynveen himself came in second in the A Stock, the largest class of the event with 19 cars. That's what he gets for sharing his MercuryRacing.com Honda S2000 with Jason Collett, of Knoxville, Tenn. Collett was slightly more nimble on the course, stopping the clocks 0.850-second ahead of Wynveen, from nearby Germantown.

Second in size to the A Stock brigade was D Stock, with 15 cars. Reigning D Stock SCCA Solo National Champion Bartek Borowski, of Elmwood Park, Ill., was fresh off a win at the Peru Tour and made it two D Stock wins in-a-row at Milwaukee behind the wheel of his Acura Integra. Borowski beat out JT Letkeman, from Steinbach, Manitoba, in the JMS Design Fusion/Pevac America Audi TT by 0.645-second.

Borowski wasn't the only repeat winner in Milwaukee. Sam Strano, of Knowxdale, Pa., also took his second F Stock National Tour win in-a-row. Driving the Strano Performance/Capital Quest Mortgage Ford Shelby Mustang, Strano also earned an F Stock victory at the D.C. ProSolo in June.

It was three G Stock wins on the year for Craig Wilcox, of Blue Springs, Mo., behind the wheel of his QuickSilver/18Racing.com/Oasis Tan Mini Cooper S. While Andy Hollis, from Austin, Texas, remains undefeated in Street Touring S2 competition with his Soulspeed/ART/GRM Mazda Miata.

Danielle Engstrom, of Franfort, Ill., took her first Super Stock Ladies victory of the year. Engstrom piloted her Lotus Exige to the win by 9.563 seconds over the MonteloRacing.com Chevrolet Corvette of Laurie Montelo, from Schaumberg, Ill. Motelo's sons cleaned up the two Formula Junior classes. Anthony and Joey Montelo went one-two in Formula Junior A, while Michael Montelo took Formula Junior B honors.

It was another family affair for Darrel Padberg and Desiree Padberg, of Muskego, Wis. The husband and wife team swept C Prepared and C Prepared Ladies in their Ford Mustang.

C Stock put on a good show between Timothy McIntosh Jr., of Berkley, Mich., and Dan Stone, of Sheridan, Ind. Both at the wheel of a Pontiac Solstice, McIntosh was the only driver in C Stock to break the 60-second mark, which helped propel him to a 0.093-second victory over Stone.

Closer still was Street Modified. Allen Kugler, of Springtown, Pa., wheeled his Fast Brakes/Redshift Motorsports Honda Civic to victory by only 0.052-second over the Showcase Mitsubishi Evo of Andy Lieber, from Bay City, Mich.

Taking home the Pace Hot Pursuit Awards were Mark Hirt, of Prospect Heights, Ill., and G.H. Sharp, of Kernersville, N.C. Driving a C Stock Mazda MX-5 in the local Index Class, Hirt had the most consistent run times on Saturday, while Sharp pulled the same feat on Sunday in his G Stock Mini Cooper S. Both drivers are now entered to win a Pace Hot Pursuit trailer at the end of the season.

For full results, visit the Milwaukee National Tour event page at www.scca.com.

The 2007 Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Tour heads to Washington for the final stop before Solo Nationals. Hampton Mills will host the Packwood National Tour August 18 19.

Attached image: Bartek Borowski took his second D Stock win in-a-row at Milwaukee.
Credit: Craig Wilcox

Posted On 7/10/07

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Formula TR 2007 Championship Series Supports NASCAR Grand National

Tue, 10 Jul 2007 10:27:40 PST

Formula TR 2007 Championship Series Supports NASCAR Grand National
By Mike Mills, ADZEN

The 2007 Formula TR Championship Series resumes this weekend after a four week break with Rounds 11 and 12 on July 13 and 14 at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah. This will be the first of two visits the Formula TR PRO Series will make to the outstanding Miller Motorsports Park facility.These two rounds are in support of the NASCAR Grand National West series in their first visit to Miller Motorsports Park and will be using the 3.06 mile outside loop configuration of the circuit.

Sergio Pena continues to lead the 1600 Series and John Knudsen remains on top in the 2000 Series at the half way point of the series; there are still 10 rounds of competition remaining which means everyone in the series still has a chance at the titles.

The championship standings at the half way point:

1600 Series
Sergio Pena (301), Ryan Booth (281), Joshua Goshen (225), Felice Snider (186), Kristin Braun (156), Kerstin Smutny (120), Carlos Munoz (72)

2000 Series
John Knudsen (281), Bill Goshen (261), Luis Martinez Jr. (237), Liam Kenney (221), Christian Franck (217), Jim Booth (189), Kerry Lynch (173), Dino Bruno(161), Bob Siska (153), Jeremy Braun (131), Paul Mashouf (88)

The schedule has round 11 starting at 5:00 PM on Friday July 13 and Round 12 beginning at 5:15 PM on July 14. Tickets are available through www.millermotorsportspark.com.

Formula TR has been the development series for the current young stars of motor racing worldwide with alumni such as Marco Andretti in the IRL Series; Darryl O'Young currently in the Porsche Super Cup Series; Brad Coleman in the Busch Series; Colin Braun in the Grand American Rolex Series; and Carl Skerlong, Adrian Carrio, and Adrian Herberts in the Champ Car Atlantic Series.

About Formula TR
Formula TR (Tatuus Renault) provides a development series for young drivers progressing from karting into professional formula car racing as early as age 14. The series was established in 2002 and features both 1600cc and 2000cc carbon fiber open wheel chassis built by Tatuus and powered by Renault. The series consists of 20 races conducted over 10 weekends at tracks throughout the western US. Visit www.FormulaTR.com for more information.

About Adzen
Adzen is a motor sport marketing and management company which provides marketing support for drivers, series, and events as well as website design and update services. Learn more about Adzen at www.Adzen.biz.

Posted On 7/10/07

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Pobst Takes Second-Straight SPEED GT Win in Damp Toronto Race

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 11:57:05 PST

Pobst Takes Second-Straight SPEED GT Win in Damp Toronto Race
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

CANADA (July 8, 2007) Starting from pole, Randy Pobst, of Gainsville, Ga., led from start to finish on the wet streets of Exhibition Place to take his second-consecutive series win in Round Six of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship, part of the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto. Local hero Ron Fellows, of Mississauga, Ont., and Michael Galati, of Olmstead, Ohio, completed the podium.

As the SCCA SPEED GT cars arrived on the grid with dry tires, the skies opened up and began to rain on the 1.755-mile, 11-turn temporary street course. Starting from the pole position, Pobst rocketed away from the grid in his No. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT-3 and maintained the lead through a slick Turn One. From there, Pobst worked with his K-PAX teammate Galati to open up a gap on Fellows in the opening laps of the race.

The gap proved useful for Galati, who spun in the slippery conditions on lap six in Turn Six, but managed to stay ahead of Fellows. The No. 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/3-R Porsche 911 GT3 pilot wasn't so lucky when he made contact with the No. 17 LTI Contracting/Foster Motorsports Dodge Viper of Rob Foster and spun, which allowed Fellows to get by and take the second spot.

The only full-course yellow of the race came on Lap 26 when the No. 3 NayKid Racing Dodge Viper of Scotty B. White made contact with the wall exiting Turn 11, and came to a stop on the front straight.

When the green and white flags came out on the lap-30 restart, a lapped car between Pobst and Fellows allowed the Porsche driver to make his final tour of the circuit unchallenged and cruise to his second SCCA SPEED GT victory in-a-row by 3.495 seconds, averaging 68.785 mph in the 31-lap, 54.405-mile race.

"That race was nowhere near easy, because the conditions were constantly changing," Pobst said. "It might have looked easy, because there's a trick I learned a long time ago in autocrossing, and that's the fastest way through a slow corner is to go slow. Boy did you have to go through some of these corners slow here in Toronto. I had an advantage, because I had run the Touring Car race just before this and it was wet, so I had a good feel for where there was traction and where there wasn't, but I did get in trouble a couple of times by myself.

"I was pushing that car as hard as I could the whole time and I knew Ron was back there and catching me for awhile. As the track was starting to dry, our Porsches had a totally dry set up, and they just came in. I think the traction was the best it had been all weekend once the track dried. This track is well-suited to the Porsche, which is light and agile, and with these conditions I was just very careful."

With the win, Pobst took over the SCCA SPEED GT Championship lead, 180 to 171, over Andy Pilgrim. Lawson Aschenbach sits third with 155 points. Pobst is also the current leader in the SCCA SPEED Touring Car Championship.

"It's a long season and we just take it one corner at a time," Pobst said. "I'm very pleased to be with teams that are so good that I could get to this point at all. We've seen it happen earlier this season, when Eric Curran won two glorious races and then lady luck turned on him. We know that can happen to at any moment, so we're just going to take things one step at a time."

It was the first podium of the season for Fellows, driver of the No. 16 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V, who was feeling under the weather the whole weekend.

"It was a good result for Team Cadillac," Fellows said. "We just didn't have anything for Randy. At the start of the race, a dry line started to form, but then the rain came again and the track got pretty slippery, particularly in Turns One and Three. Then when a dry line started to redevelop we just weren't fast enough, but we'll take second and help Cadillac in the Manufacturers' Championship. We'll do a little more homework work with the boys and be ready for when I get back in again at Mosport."

Cadillac currently leads the SCCA SPEED GT Manufacturers' Championshipp Presented by RACER, with 40 points. Porsche sits second, with 34 points, followed by Chevrolet, with 31, and Dodge with 18.

After his contact with Foster's Viper, Galati had another close call and brushed the wall exiting Turn 11. The hit caused further damage to his already ailing Porsche, but Galati was able to bring the car home in third.

"The race was really unbelievable," Galati said. "Early on the car was slipping and sliding. I could see Randy ahead of me and he would pull a gap, but then I would catch up. But then I got into Turn Six and the car went sideways. I thought it was going to go into the wall and I stalled it and everyone went by me, but I restarted and started chasing back through the field again.

"Then, I was going through one of the lefts next to a Viper. He didn't see me I guess and took my nose off, so I spun again and it took me awhile to restart it. I got back going and the next lap I get to the back straight and I had no downforce because the splitter came apart and I brushed the wall. I couldn't believe I finished third!"

Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., finished the weekend even, starting and finishing the race in fourth, at the wheel of his No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V. Tommy Archer, of Duluth, Minn., moved to fifth after a last lap battle with the No. 1 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V of Lawson Aschenbach, from West Palm Beach, Fla. The defending SCCA SPEED GT Champion started the race from pitlane after making the decision to switch to wet tires and would go on to finish sixth.

Through a pit stop and two stop-and-go penalties, the No. 30 Whelen Engineering Corvette of Eric Curran, from East Hampton, Mass., was able to finish the race in seventh. Curran was first called into pit lane for contact with Aschenbach on lap 20, but crossed the blend line on his return to the track and was subsequently called back into the pits. At the conclusion of the race Curran was awarded the B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race a pass made on Pilgrim while charging through the field from an opening-lap spin.

Teammates Doug Peterson (Chevrolet Corvette) and Lou Gigliotti finished eighth and ninth respectively, with Gigliotti taking the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing 11 positions during the race in his No. 28 LG Pro Long Tube Headers Chevrolet Corvette.

James Sofronas overcame and early-race spin to finish tenth and also collect the Toyo Tires Cup award in his No. 14 Global Motorsports Group Porsche 911 GT3.

Round Six of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship at the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto will air Saturday, July 14, at 12 p.m. (EDT) on SPEED.

The SCCA SPEED GT cars next head to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio for the Acura Sports Car Challenge, July 21-22.

For all the latest SCCA SPEED World Challenge results and news, visit www.world-challenge.com

Results from Sunday's 31-lap, 54.405-mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Six race, part of the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto at Exhibition Place with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps, distance behind winner and reason out (if any).

1. (1), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 31.
2. (3), Ron Fellows, Mississauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 31, -3.495.
3. (2), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 31, -8.332.
4. (4), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 31, -11.795.
5. (5), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 31, -13.110.
6. (8), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 31, -13.754.
7. (7), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 31, -29.022.
8. (9), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 30, -1 lap.
9. (20), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 30, -1 lap.
10. (10), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 30, -1 lap.
11. (14), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 30, -1 lap.
12. (12), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 30, -1 lap.
13. (17), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 30, -1 lap.
14. (19), Nick Majors(R), Oakville, Ontario, Dodge Viper, 29, -2 laps.
15. (15), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 29, -50.965.
16. (13), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 28, -2 laps.
17. (6), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 23, Crash.
18. (16), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 22, Crash.
19. (18), John Bourassa(T), Jupiter Island, Fla., Porsche 911 Turbo, 19, Crash.
20. (11), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 10, Crash.
21. (21), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 0, Withdrawn.

Time of race: 47 minutes, 27.365 seconds.
Average speed: 68.785 mph
Margin of victory: 3.495 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-31, #22 Randy Pobst
Fastest race lap: Not available due to equipment failure
Fastest qualifier: #22 Randy Pobst, 1:15.261 (83.947 mph)
B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race: #30 Eric Curran pass on #8
Sunoco Hard Charger: #28 Lou Gigliotti
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #6 Jeffrey Robbins
Toyo Tires Cup: #14 James Sofronas

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Drivers' Championship After Six of 10 Rounds

Pos., Driver, Car, Points (wins)
1, Randy Pobst, Porsche 911 GT3, 180 (2)
2, Andy Pilgrim, Cadillac CTS-V, 171 (1)
3, Lawson Aschebach, Cadillac CTS-V, 155
4, Michael Galati, Porsche 911 GT3, 149
5, Tommy Archer, Dodge Viper, 139 (1)
6, Lou Gigliotti, Chevrolet Corvette, 127
7, Eric Curran, Chevrolet Corvette, 111 (2)
8, Rob Foster (T), Dodge Viper, 104
9, Doug Peterson, Chevrolet Corvette, 102
10, Jeff Courtney, Dodge Viper, 93

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER After Six of 10 Rounds
Pos., Manufacturer, Points (Wins)
1, Cadillac, 40 (1)
2, Porsche, 34 (2)
3, Chevrolet, 31 (2)
4, Dodge, 18 (1)

Attached image: The no. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/3-R Porsche 911 GT3 of Toronto race winner Randy Pobst
Credit: (C)SCCA/ Mark Weber

Posted On 7/8/07

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Cunningham Ends Drought With SPEED Touring Car Win In Toronto

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 11:50:36 PST

Cunningham Ends Drought With SPEED Touring Car Win In Toronto
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

CANADA (July 8, 2007) SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge's winningest driver Peter Cunningham ended a 25-race drought Sunday, holding off Ian Baas in the final corners to win Round Six of the SCCA SPEED Touring Car Championship at the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto. Pierre Kleinubing finished third.

Driving the No. 42 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura TSX, Cunningham, of Grafton, Wis., captured his 30th career win and ended a streak dating back to March 2005 at Sebring.

The race started under damp conditions with all cars on wet Toyo Proxes tires. Polesitter Kuno Wittmer, of Montreal, Quebec, got away cleanly in his No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura RSX and led the all-wheel drive Audi A4s of Baas and Chip Herr from the standing start.

Baas was the first driver to fall victim to the conditions, going into the Turn Three runoff area before a lap was complete, falling back to 15th. Wittmer was the next victim of Turn Three on lap five, promoting Herr to the lead. Just five laps later, Herr, who started third on the grid in his No. 17 PFAFF/STaSIS/Clear Capital entry, began to experience throttle issues, allowing Cunningham by, into the lead.

Meanwhile, Kleinubing, who started 18th after the splitter on his No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura TSX was found to be too low after Saturday's qualifying session, was charging through the field. As Cunningham moved into the lead, defending series champ Kleinubing had sliced through the field on the damp track to take second.

As the circuit began to dry, the two Acuras paced the field, but Baas was on a charge. The No. 18 PFAFF/STaSIS/Clear Capital Audi was into fifth by lap 10 and around the Mazda 6s of Charles Espenlaub and point leader Randy Pobst into third by lap 14.

On lap 24 of the 28-lap event, Cunningham caught Kleinubing off guard as they entered Turn Six and Kleinubing tapped his team owner, sending him into a slide. Cunningham gathered his car up, and Baas was able to capitalize, moving around Kleinubing as they exited the corner.

In the closing laps, the Audi shadowed the Acura. On the final lap, Baas made his move and the two ran side-by-side through the final corners, banging off each other as they came on the front straight. Cunningham beat Baas to the stripe by 0.538-second, averaging 76.642 mph in the 49.14-mile event.

"It feels amazing," Cunningham said of being back on the top step of the podium. "I wasn't sure what it was gonna' take to get another one. It's been a year and a half. Nathan Bonneau, my team manager, said that if I didn't win a race this year, I was done, so I've been under a lot of pressure! I figured I'd better get it over with now before we get to these tracks that Pierre is so good at.

"I was in the right place with the right car at the end of the race. I think Pierre had the car at the beginning of the race, but as it dried out, my setup was just slightly different than his. I seemed to have a little bit better traction, particularly coming through those last three corners onto the pit straightaway.

"At one point, I thought maybe I'd have to let Pierre go because of how quickly he caught me. But I put my head down and was able to pull away from him in some parts of the track, but he'd catch up to me in others. But I just hung in there and maintained the position."

For Baas, it was a career-best finish on a day that started off a little too eventful for his liking.

"Big mistake on my part at the start," Baas said. "What can I say? I just went too deep in the corner. I saw the race flash before my eyes. But I was able to get it turned around. I went two turns later and there were two cars that got together and I got into them and then I got plowed from behind! I came to another stand still.

"The early caution and restart helped and the all-wheel drive is definitely an advantage. Obviously, in the wet it's good. But when it dries and you're on wet tires, things are slick. So it's an advantage then as well.

As they entered the final lap, Baas felt he may have missed his opportunity at the win.

"On the second to last lap, I made a move and I couldn't do it, so he gapped me and I knew that it was a mistake. I should have just taken my time and waited for the right opportunity.

"On the last lap, I knew I had the run on him in the last three turns and tried to do it. He did what any driver would do and held his line. When you try to fit two cars on one line, you're going to get some rubbing. It happened. Nobody got hurt from it other than some sheet metal."

Kleinubing captured his fourth podium of the year, and the weather was a welcome sight for a driver who was unhappy after qualifying.

"I was most discouraged after yesterday," he said. "I wanted to pack my things up and go home. When I saw the rain this morning, I was actually pretty happy, because I knew it was going to give me a chance to pass a lot of people that, maybe, I wouldn't have been able to pass today. I'm pretty happy. I'll take third place starting from 18th any day."

Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., maintained his series point lead with a fourth-place finish in his No. 73 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6, and Wittmer recovered to finish fifth.

Jeff Altenburg (Mazda 6), Michael Galati (Mazda 6), James Sofronas (BMW 325Ci), Nick Esayian (Acura TSX) and Jason Martinelli (BMW 325Ci) completed the top 10.

Sofronas, of Newport Beach, Calif., picked up a trio of awards with his No. 29 Global Motorsports Group BMW 325Ci for his run from 19th on the grid after losing an engine on the first lap of practice to finish eighth. Sofronas captured the B&M Shifters Holeshot Award for passing the most cars on the opening lap, the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for passing the most cars in the entire race as well as the Toyo Tires Cup.

Martinelli, of Roxbury, Conn., was the Piloti Rookie of the Race, finishing 10th in his No. 8 Techmark Autosport BMW 325Ci.

Pobst extended his Drivers' Championship point lead to 17 over teammate Altenburg, 198 to 181. Kleinubing and Sofronas are tied for third, with 146, and Cunningham has moved into fifth, with 137.

Mazda maintains its solid point lead in the Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER Magazine, with 47, followed by Acura (32), Audi (19) and BMW (17).

Today's race will be broadcast on SPEED Saturday, July 14 at 11 a.m. (EDT). Check local listings for replays.

The series next travels to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course for Round Seven on July 22.

Attached: Peter Cunningham leading third finishing Pierre Kleinubing and second place finisher Ian Baas at Toronto. Mark Weber Image.

Results from Sunday's 28-lap, 49.14-mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round Six race, part of the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto weekend with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps, distance behind winner and reason out (if any).

1. (4), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 28.
2. (2), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 28, -0.538.
3. (18), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 28, -2.632.
4. (6), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 28, -3.609.
5. (1), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 28, -4.129.
6. (7), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 28, -4.726.
7. (8), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 28, -5.314.
8. (19), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 28, -6.005.
9. (13), Nick Esayian(T), Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 28, -6.068.
10. (10), Jason Martinelli(R), Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 28, -16.352.
11. (14), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 28, -33.671.
12. (17), Tor Krueger, Hamilton, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, 28, -37.483.
13. (9), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 27, -1 lap.
14. (12), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 27, -1 lap.
15. (11), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey, Mexico, Mazda 6, 25, Damage.
16. (16), Andrew Wojteczko(R), Caledon, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, 25, -3 laps.
17. (3), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 25, -3 laps.
18. (5), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 21, -7 laps.
19. (15), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 0, Crash.
20. (20), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 0, DNS.

Time of race: 45 minutes, 13.615 seconds.
Average speed: 65.191 mph
Margin of victory: 0.538-second
Lap leaders: Laps 1-4, #44 Kuno Wittmer; laps 5-9, #17 Chip Herr; laps 10-28, #42 Peter Cunningham Fastest race lap: #38 Seth Thomas(T), 1:22.435 (76.642 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #44 Kuno Wittmer, 1:20.601 (78.386 mph)
B&M Shifters Holeshot Award: #29 James Sofronas
Sunoco Hard Charger: #29 James Sofronas
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #8 Jason Martinelli
Toyo Tires Cup: #29 James Sofronas

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Drivers' Championship After Six of 10 Rounds

Pos., Driver, Car, Points (wins)
1, Randy Pobst, Mazda 6, 198 (2)
2, Jeff Altenburg, Mazda 6, 181 (2)
3, Pierre Kleinubing, Acura TSX, 146
4, James Sofronas(T), BMW 325Ci, 146
5, Peter Cunningham, Acura TSX, 137 (1)
6, Kuno Wittmer, Acura RSX, 130
7, Chip Herr, Audi A4, 121 (1)
8, Charles Espenlaub, Mazda 6, 119
9, Michael Galati, Mazda 6, 95
10, Brandon Davis, Acura TSX, 80

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER After Six of 10 Rounds

Pos., Manufacturer, Points (Wins)
1, Mazda, 47 (4)
2, Acura, 32 (1)
3, Audi, 19 (1)
4, BMW, 17

Posted On 7/8/07

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Pobst Edges Galati For Toronto SPEED GT Pole

Sat, 07 Jul 2007 10:45:56 PST

Pobst Edges Galati For Toronto SPEED GT Pole
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

CANADA (July 7, 2007) Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., captured his first SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship pole of the season today for Sunday's Round Six race at the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto. Pobst's K-PAX Racing Porsche teammate Michael Galati, of Olmsted, Ohio, will start second.

Driving the No. 22 K-PAX Racing/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3, Pobst turned a fast time of 1:15.261 (83.947 mph) around the 11-turn 1.755-mile street circuit at Toronto's Exhibition Place. The lap was just 0.130-second faster than that of teammate Galati, who earned the pole at Charlotte.

"I think the Porsches are well suited to this Toronto course," Pobst said. "We're one of the lightest cars in the class and we have the smallest engine. In this series, those two go hand-in-hand. This is a Porsche type of track. It's going to be really hard on brakes. I'm hoping that there will be a lot of green flag racing, but I also think that a lot of green flag racing is not likely. The Toronto Grand Prix circuit is very challenging and in many corners, the slightest mistake is met with a concrete wall."

With only one practice session on Friday prior to qualifying, Pobst was glad he had additional seat time on the weekend by driving in SCCA SPEED Touring Car as well.

"Driving both series for me is an advantage because I get more track time," he said. "Teams have to react quickly here in terms of setup. My practice times weren't good because I kept coming into the pits to make adjustments. I could see that this track requires something really different from what we ran at Watkins Glen and earlier in the season."

Galati, who led practice Friday in his No. 23 K-PAX Racing/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3, came up just short of his second pole of the season, but made it an all-Porsche front row with a time of 1:15.391 (83.803 mph).

Local favorite Ron Fellows, of nearby Mississauga, Ontario, led an all-Team Cadillac second row with a fastest time of 1:15.403 (83.789 mph) in his No. 16 XM/Mobil 1 Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V. Point leader Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., will start fourth in his No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V with a time of 1:16.096 (83.026 mph).

Utah winner Tommy Archer, of Duluth, Minn., will start fifth in his No. 5 Mopar/Autohaus Motorsport Dodge Viper after setting a fast time of 1:16.184 (82.930 mph).

The session was stopped before all drivers were able to get in their first flying lap when Lou Gigliotti brushed the wall and his Chevrolet Corvette became disabled in Turn Three. The top four drivers all turned their fastest times before the red flag period, while Archer's time came later in the session.

Rookie Brian Kubinski (Chevrolet Corvette), Eric Curran (Chevrolet Corvette), Lawson Aschenbach (Cadillac CTS-V), Doug Peterson (Chevrolet Corvette) and James Sofronas (Porsche 911 GT3) completed the top 10.

Pobst, as well as Galati and Sofronas, will all be coming off a SCCA SPEED Touring Car race prior to the SCCA SPEED GT race. Temperatures are expected to be in the mid-90s (35C), with humidity pushing the heat index over 100F (40C).

Sunday's race is scheduled to begin at 5:25 p.m. (EDT). Live timing and lap notes are available via the SCCA Pit Board at www.world-challenge.com. The race will be broadcast Sat., July 14 at 12 p.m. (EDT) on SPEED.

Attached: Image of Randy Pobst en route to his 19th-career World Challenge pole. Image by Mark Weber/SCCA.

Starting lineup for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Six race, part of the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto, at Exhibition Place, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:15.261, 83.947.
2, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:15.391, 83.803.
3, (16), Ron Fellows, Mississauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 1:15.403, 83.789.
4, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:16.096, 83.026.
5, (5), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 1:16.184, 82.930.
6, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:16.399, 82.697.
7, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:16.447, 82.645.
8, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:16.655, 82.421.
9, (87), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:17.049, 81.999.
10, (14), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:17.122, 81.922.
11, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 1:17.767, 81.242.
12, (17), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:17.849, 81.157.
13, (2), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 1:17.953, 81.048.
14, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 1:18.073, 80.924.
15, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 1:18.524, 80.459.
16, (3), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 1:18.558, 80.424.
17, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 1:20.962, 78.036.
18, (76), John Bourassa(T), Jupiter Island, Fla., Porsche 911 Turbo, 1:22.350, 76.721.
19, (13), Nick Majors(R), Oakville, Ontario, Dodge Viper, 1:23.425, 75.732.
20, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 1:43.553, 61.012.
21, (31), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, no time.

Posted On 7/7/07

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Wittmer Nabs First SPEED Touring Car Pole at Toronto

Sat, 07 Jul 2007 10:45:30 PST

Wittmer Nabs First SPEED Touring Car Pole at Toronto
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

CANADA (July 7, 2007) Kuno Wittmer, of Montreal, Quebec, captured his first-career pole position for Round Six of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship. Ian Baas, of Noblesville, Ind., also earned his series-best qualifying position and completes the front row for Sunday's race on the streets of Exhibition Place, part of the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto.

Wittmer needed only a single lap in his No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura RSX to grab his first SCCA SPEED Touring Car pole. The Canadian stopped the clocks with a 1:20.601 (78.386 mph) around the 1.755-mile, 11-turn temporary street course."

"It feels pretty good," Wittmer said. "Home track advantage does help and the fans here are crazy. Definitely the RealTime boys put in a tremendous effort getting the car ready, so a big thanks to Acura, they did an excellent job putting the whole package together for the RSX today."

When comparing his Acura RSX to the TSX of his fellow RealTime teammates, Wittmer felt there were some distinct advantages to the RSX around the tight street-course.

"Well it's a two-door car compared to a four-door car, so the wheelbase is a bit shorter. I don't run the sequential gearbox, but I'm 100 lbs. lighter and I don't have the restrictor. The TSX has shown to be a bit better on exit, but the RSX is better on entrance, so it's a give and take. Both cars have their strengths and advantages, but right now the RSX is the way to go on this track."

Wittmer's season so far has been a dramatic departure from his 2006 SPEED GT season, in which he struggle with mechanical gremlins throughout the year driving a Mercedes Benz C230.

"This year, I have huge sponsor that came on board with me and that's Asset Engineering. They really came on board with me at the beginning of the year and they're based out of Toronto so they're really happy to see me perform. Last year was a tough year, but I had a good time and I learned a lot."

Wittmer was due to have his teammate Pierre Kleinubing in the No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura TSX starting alongside of him, but the defending SCCA SPEED Touring Car Champion's qualifying time were disallowed following post-qualifying technical inspection for a front splitter that was too low.

This moved Baas into the second spot on the grid with a qualifying time of 1:20.842 (78.152 mph). It is a career-best grid position for the driver of the No. 18 PFAFF/STaSIS/Clear Capital Audi A4, who is looking forward to a front-row standing start in his all-wheel drive car.

Baas' teammate Chip Herr, of Lititz, Pa., fills in the third spot on the grid. Winner at Lime Rock Park earlier this year, Herr entered a time of 1:20.846 (78.148 mph) in his No. 17 PFAFF/STaSIS/Clear Capital Audi A4.

Peter Cunningham, of Grafton, Wis., put his No. 42 Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura TSX in the fourth spot on the grid with a time of 1:21.134 (77.871 mph). Charles Espenlaub, of Lutz, Fla., completed the top five after turning a 1:21.166 (77.840 mph).

Teammates Randy Pobst (Mazda 6) and Jeff Altenburg (Mazda 6) will start sixth and seventh, respectively. Michael Galati (Mazda 6), Brandon Davis (Acura TSX) and Jason Martinelli (BMW 325Ci) completed the top ten.

Sunday's SCCA SPEED Touring Car race is scheduled to begin at 3:30 p.m. (EDT). The race will air on SPEED, Saturday, July 14, at 11:00 a.m. (EDT).

For the latest news from the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto, including live timing and lap notes via the SCCA Pit Board, visit www.world-challenge.com

Starting lineup for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round Six race, part of the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto at Exhibition Place with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles-per-hour.

1, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 1:20.601, 78.386.
2, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 1:20.842, 78.152.
3, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 1:20.846, 78.148.
4, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 1:21.134, 77.871.
5, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 1:21.166, 77.840.
6, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 1:21.211, 77.797.
7, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 1:21.591, 77.435.
8, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 1:21.714, 77.318.
9, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 1:21.810, 77.227.
10, (8), Jason Martinelli(R), Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 1:22.039, 77.012.
11, (74), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey, Mexico, Mazda 6, 1:22.073, 76.980.
12, (38), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 1:22.196, 76.865.
13, (34), Nick Esayian(T), Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 1:22.272, 76.794.
14, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 1:22.414, 76.661.
15, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 1:23.690, 75.492.
16, (64), Andrew Wojteczko(R), Caledon, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, 1:23.799, 75.394.
17, (65), Tor Krueger, Hamilton, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, 1:24.766, 74.534.
18, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, no time.
19, (29), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, no time.
20, (36), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, no time.

Attached image: The No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura RSX of Montreal driver Kuno Wittmer.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 7/7/07

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Canadian Wittmer Leads SPEED Touring Car Practice in Toronto

Fri, 06 Jul 2007 09:00:37 PST

Canadian Wittmer Leads SPEED Touring Car Practice in Toronto
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

CANADA (July 6, 2007) In the series' first visit to the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto, Kuno Wittmer, of Montreal, Quebec, made the most of his previous track experience at Exhibition Place to lead practice for Round Six of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship. Ian Baas, of Noblesville, Ind., and Roberto Santos, of Monterrey, Mexico, were second and third fastest, respectively.

Racing on the streets of Toronto for the sixth time in his career, Wittmer climbed to the top of scoring monitors shortly after the first of two red flags in the 30-minute session. The flag was brought out for the No. 29 Global Motorsports Group BMW 325Ci of James Sofronas, from Newport Beach, Calif., who's engine expired on the first lap and stopped on course in Turn Six.

Wittmer continued to lead the session while steadily improving his time. The No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned pilot ended the session with a fast lap of 1:21.603 (77.423 mph) on his final tour around the 1.755-mile, 11-turn temporary street course.

"I definitely have the most experience here," Wittmer said. "But at this level of racing, it's so competitive and it's only a matter of time before the other guys come up to speed. I think in qualifying I'll be getting a lot more pressure, especially from my teammates, because they'll be right there with me in speed.

Wittmer has tasted success at Exhibition Place before, winning the Honda Challenge race here in 2005 en route taking the series Championship. But the Canadian has no illusions of a clean sweep at Toronto this weekend.

"I've always liked street courses. I think my car is suited pretty good to this track and I've had a pretty good history on street courses as far as driving goes. I like this track, it has a good flow to it. The last three corners, the way you build up momentum is fun, so I've got nothing negative to say about this track."

"Starting qualifying in seventh, because I'm seventh in the points, might be a little bit of a problem, especially since the front guys aren't up to speed yet. It's not their fault, it's just a matter of learning the track and we didn't get much time in today's practice. I think I'm going to just keep a gap and then go on my own, maybe get two or three laps."

In his best showing of the season so far, Baas put his No. 18 PFAFF/STaSIS/Clear Capital Audi A4 second on the time sheets. Fresh from a Rolex GT race at Daytona Thursday night, Baas recorded a time of 1:21.868 (77.173 mph).

Driving the No. 74 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6, Santos outpaced both of his Championship-leading teammates Randy Pobst and Jeff Altenburg to finish the session in third. The young rookie finished the session with a 1:22.242 (76.822 mph).

Four-time World Challenge Champion Peter Cunningham of Grafton, Wis., was fourth fastest with a lap of 1:22.434 (76.643 mph) in his No. 42 Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura TSX. Lime Rock race winner Chip Herr, of Lititz, Pa., completed the top five in his No. 17 PFAFF/STaSIS/Clear Capital Audi A4 with a time of 1:22.443 (76.634 mph).

Charles Espenlaub (Mazda 6), Pierre Kleinubing (Acura TSX), Michael Galati (Mazda 6), Jeff Altenburg (Mazda 6) and Stan Wilson (Dodge SRT-4) completed the top ten.

Qualifying for Round Six of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship is set for Saturday, July 7, at 4:30 p.m. (EDT).

For all the latest from the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto, including live timing and lap notes, log onto www.world-challenge.com.

Results from practice for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round Six race part of the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto at Exhibition Place, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (44), Kuno Wittmer(T), Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 1:21.603, 77.423.
2, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 1:21.868, 77.173.
3, (74), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey Mexico, , Mazda 6, 1:22.242, 76.822.
4, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 1:22.434, 76.643.
5, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 1:22.443, 76.634.
6, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 1:22.501, 76.580.
7, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 1:22.565, 76.521.
8, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 1:22.859, 76.250.
9, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 1:23.138, 75.994.
10, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 1:23.141, 75.991.
11, (38), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 1:23.288, 75.857.
12, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 1:23.371, 75.781.
13, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 1:23.411, 75.745.
14, (34), Nick Esayian(T), Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 1:23.963, 75.247.
15, (36), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 1:23.973, 75.238.
16, (8), Jason Martinelli(R), Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 1:24.630, 74.654.
17, (65), Tor Krueger, Hamilton, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, 1:24.790, 74.513.
18, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 1:26.066, 73.408.
19, (16), Phil Parlato(T), Commack, N.Y., BMW 325i, no time.
20, (29), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, no time.
21, (64), Andrew Wojteczko(R), Caledon, Ontario, Lexus IS 300, no time.

Attached image: No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura RSX of Kuno Wittmer.
Credit: Mark Weber

Posted On 7/6/07

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Galati Fastest in SPEED GT Toronto Practice

Fri, 06 Jul 2007 08:56:25 PST

Galati Fastest in SPEED GT Toronto Practice
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

CANADA (July 6, 2007) Michael Galati, of Olmsted, Ohio, needed only one lap in his Porsche to set the pace in Friday's 30-minute practice session for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Six race at the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto. Point leader Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., and Eric Curran, of East Hampton, Mass., completed the top three.

After being brought in on the first lap due to an oil leak, Galati was able to only turn one lap at speed in his No. 23 K-PAX Racing/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 before an incident ended the session early, but his time of 1:15.613 (83.557 mph) around the 1.755-mile circuit was 1.235 seconds better than anyone else.

"They just overfilled the oil tank a little bit and I was smoking off the exhaust, so they called me in," Galati said. "I came in right away. The team made sure there was no problem and there wasn't so I went back out. Then the red flag came out and I had to come back in, so I only got one flying lap, but the car felt really good.

"I raced here back in 1999 in a different series, so I know this track a little bit, but I forgot about a lot of places. It's a little too slow, but that's a street race. It's not bad though, it's short so it keeps you on your toes all the time.

"I was out in the Touring Car just before the GT session, so I think that refreshed my memory a little bit. Track time is always an advantage and it worked out well for me."

Pilgrim led most of the session in his No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V with a time of 1:16.848 (82.214 mph), just a tick faster than Curran's lap of 1:16.986 (82.066 mph) in his No. 30 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette.

Curran's teammate and car owner, Sonny Whelen, ended the session early after making heavy contact with the Turn 11 wall in his Chevrolet Corvette. Whelen was uninjured, but his car was damaged and is unlikely to return this weekend.

Local hero Ron Fellows, of Mississauga, Ontario, was fourth in his No. 16 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V with a best lap of 1:17.180 (81.860 mph). Rookie Brian Kubinski, of Plainfield, Ill., was fifth in his No. 12 Diamond Construction/Blackdog Racing Chevrolet Corvette with a fastest time of 1:17.221 (81.817 mph).

Lawson Aschenbach (Cadillac CTS-V), Randy Pobst (Porsche 911 GT3), Tommy Archer (Dodge Viper), Lou Gigliotti (Chevrolet Corvette) and Doug Peterson (Chevrolet Corvette) completed the top 10.

Qualifying for Sunday afternoon's race is scheduled for Saturday at 5:05 (EDT) and can be viewed via live timing and lap notes on the SCCA Pit Board at www.world-challenge.com.

Attached: Image of Michael Galati at the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto. Image by Mark Weber/SCCA

Results from practice for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Five race, part of the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto at Exhibition Place, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:15.613, 83.557.
2, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:16.848, 82.214.
3, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:16.986, 82.066.
4, (16), Ron Fellows, Mississauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 1:17.180, 81.860.
5, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:17.221, 81.817.
6, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:17.236, 81.801.
7, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:17.387, 81.641.
8, (5), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 1:17.489, 81.534.
9, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 1:17.877, 81.128.
10, (87), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:18.113, 80.882.
11, (14), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:18.754, 80.224.
12, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 1:18.966, 80.009.
13, (31), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:19.050, 79.924.
14, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 1:19.078, 79.895.
15, (2), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 1:19.238, 79.734.
16, (17), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:19.631, 79.341.
17, (3), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 1:19.699, 79.273.
18, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 1:20.339, 78.641.
19, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 1:21.690, 77.341.
20, (76), John Bourassa(T), Jupiter Island, Fla., Porsche 911 Turbo, 1:21.818, 77.220.
21, (13), Nick Majors (R), Oakville, Ontario, Dodge Viper, 1:23.646, 75.532.

Posted On 7/6/07

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Bimmerworld: BimmerWorld Heads To Toronto Ready For a Street Fight

Fri, 06 Jul 2007 10:26:46 PST

Bimmerworld: BimmerWorld Heads To Toronto Ready For a Street Fight
By Bimmerworld Media Services

James Clay and Seth Thomas bring their BMW E90's to the Canadian street race armed for a sharp turnaround in what's been a challenging season to date.

Dublin, Virginia - July 5, 2007 -- BimmerWorld Racing heads north to Toronto, Canada for the 6th round of the SPEED World Challenge Touring Car championship this weekend-it's the team's first time racing on the stories and popular temporary ChampCar circuit.

"We're excited to race for the first time in Toronto. The crowds and fans from what I'm told are just amazing-it's like a massive 3-day long party there, said James Clay, owner and drive of the #36 BimmerWorld BMW E90. "We have a lot of fans and customers in Canada, especially in eastern Canada, so I know we'll have a lot of local support in the grandstands.

Clay's team mate Seth Thomas is also excited to get to Toronto in order to put a challenging first half of the season behind him. "We've been really fast at every track, and had a few solid results towards the front of the pack, but bad luck, on track contact, and a few other gremlins have really tried our patience. I know our BMW's can fight for pole positions and wins-we just need a few smiles to rain down on us and we'll start delivering those results."

The 1.75 mile long temporary circuit erected in downtown Toronto is likely to favor the inline 6-cylinder power and multi-link suspension found within the blue BimmerWorld E90's. With a number of slow to medium speed corners, the torque available from the BMW power plant will be of great use to help Clay and Thomas shoot from corner to corner. The traction and cornering power of the BimmerWorld-tuned suspension will also be at a premium on the notoriously slippery street circuit.

"I really hope to have a boring and uncomplicated weekend for Seth and me," Clay noted with a smile. "We've had too much drama and have been hit too many times in the recent races. Our E90's should be nicely suited to Toronto's street circuit, so if all goes according to plan, we'll start and finish the weekend going quickly and then put the cars back into the trailer without a collection of dents and traded paint from our competitors. This should be a great shootout for BimmerWorld and the rest of the series."

Courtesy: BimmerWorld Media Services
mediaservices@bimmerworld.com

More information about the team, cars, and drivers can be found at www.bimmerworldracing.com Information on BimmerWorld's Customer Car Services can be found at www.bimmerworld.com
Details on PowerFlex Suspension Bushings can be found at www.powerflexusa.com
The BimmerWorld team is proudly supported by: Silkolene, Ground Control, BBS, Moton, Bimmerforums.com, Performance Friction, Diffsonline, JB Racing, and Rogue Engineering

Posted On 7/6/07

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Moment of Truth: SCCA ProSolo Meets the DoubleCross Challenge

Thu, 05 Jul 2007 11:23:25 PST

Moment of Truth: SCCA ProSolo Meets the DoubleCross Challenge
By Erin Cechal, SCCA

Atlanta, Ga. (July 5, 2007) Adventurous SCCA Solo competitors headed to the Tire Rack SCCA Atlanta ProSolo, June 30 July 1, where the Atlanta Region hosted a innovative event on the Solo calendar dubbed the DoubleCross Challenge.

At the heart of the DoubleCross challenge is a course designed in the Mirrorkhana-style of autocross, where two competitors enter and finish a single course at different points. Using the traditional ProSolo Christmas tree start, competitors essentially followed the same route half a lap behind each other.

Saturday was composed entirely of class competition. Each driver received three runs from each entry point on the course. To ensure legitimate dial-ins for Sunday's elimination rounds, times were not posted for any of the Saturday runs. The main purpose of Saturday's class heats was to build a master index and divide the 155 entrants into five equally distributed brackets for Sunday's elimination rounds.

A Stock and Street Touring Sport 2 were the largest fully subscribed classes at 12 each. While AS had a lot of car diversity, STS-2 was populated by the usual Miatas and CRX's. STS-2 competitors continue to make a strong case for advancement to full National status in 2008 with another strong showing in Atlanta.

The novelties continued on Sunday as drivers had to lose twice to be eliminated from one of the brackets. Additionally, two line judges were used at the finish line to determine the winner of each heat. The top six finishers in each bracket plus the two highest overall seeds to be eliminated were sent on to the Hawk Super Challenge, run in traditional single-elimination format. It all made for a long day indeed, but Soloists benefited in the end with more runs than a traditional ProSolo event.

The five bracket winners were Michael Johnson in an A Stock Prepared Chevrolet Corvette, Steve Waters driving a Super Stock Chevrolet Corvette, Mike King driving a Street Touring S2 Mazda Miata and both Robert Carpenter and Mark Mccrary in a shared E Stock Toyota MR2.

The final match up of the Hawk Super Challenge was quite suspenseful. The skies began to darken considerably and rain seemed imminent as Johnathan Roberts' A Stock Subaru STi and Robert Carpenter's Miata approached the start lines. The finish proved too close to call when the two finish-line judges disagreed on a winner, thus the cars were sent back to the starting boxes for another run. The second time around, Carpenter came out the clear winner, taking his first-ever Hawk Super Challenge win.

Of the 32 drivers in the Hawk Super Challenge, 12 were in Hondas for the largest contingent of entries into the concurrently run Honda Tuner Challenge during the 2007 season. The battle to determine the Honda Tuner Challenge Hot Shoe of the event pitted Solo veteran Mike King in a Honda CRX Si against high school senior Danny Carroll in an Acura Integra R. Call it wisdom, experience, or just plain skill, King took the win and the extra $250 prize.

Like Sunday's prequalification brackets, the Ladies Challenge was run in a double elimination format and saw Ladies 1 class victor Karen Kraus in a Subaru Impreza versus Ladies 2 runner-up Tara Knoll in a Honda CRX Si. Kraus' Subie hit the finished line with half a car length on Knoll, who had ironically been strictly a Subaru competitor until this season. It was the second ProSolo win in a row for Kraus who also claimed victory a week earlier in Washington D.C.

While the overall length of the event provided some challenges and the format left several Soloists scratching their heads, the Atlanta Region's DoubleCross Challenge was a compelling event for all involved and appears to have a future in SCCA ProSolo.

"The Atlanta Region Solo Committee is to be commended for taking the original Rocky Entriken and Salina Region Mirrorkhana to the next level and creating an entertaining experience for the competitors," SCCA Vice President of Solo and Rally Howard Duncan said. "We were pleased to make it part of the 2007 Tire Rack ProSolo season in this year of experimentation and program development as it gave us a lot to think about for 2008. The format presents difficulties for handling large turnouts, but there is no doubt that it is intriguing and that at least elements of what we saw will make it into our future plans."

For full results from Atlanta, visit the Atlanta ProSolo event page at www.scca.com.

The Tire Rack SCCA ProSolo returns to action July 21st at Seneca Army Depot for the Finger Lakes ProSolo in Romulus, N.Y.

Attached image: The Subaru STi of Jonathan Roberts lines up next to the Toyota MR2 of Robert Carpenter for the Hawk Super Challenge.
Credit: Kerrie Turner

Posted On 7/5/07

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Charity Motorsports Group Donation Event - 3 Hour Endurance Race - Willow Springs, 7/7/07

Tue, 03 Jul 2007 12:42:37 PST

Charity Motorsports Group Donation Event - 3 Hour Endurance Race - Willow Springs, 7/7/07
By Aaron Nichols, Charity Motorsports Group

Charity Motorsport Group will be compete in in our first endurance race this Saturday, July 7th, 2007. The race is a 3 Hour event and we are hoping to not only do well but raise a little money for The Lance Armstrong Foundation in the process. Please take the time to read below and participate and/or pass this information onto your friends!! Help this be a successful event for CMG and The Lance Armstrong Foundation!

Endurance racing takes a special kind of skill and determination. It is not just about who has the fastest car or who has the guts to keep the pedal to the floor longer..it is about patience, luck, determination. Sort of akin to the cancer survivor it is about mental toughness, and teamwork. Throw in at least an hour of night racing during this event and we are in for a big challenge!

While we prepare to challenge ourselves for 3 hours, CMG is also challenging you! For every lap that CMG completes during this event we are asking that you donate $.25 to Charity Motorsports Group and our ongoing commitment to The Lance Armstrong Foundation. The average lap time we figure on doing is ~1:30 a lap. So if you do the math, this really adds up to a small contribution on your part. To add to your generosity, CMG is committed to donate $.50 to The Lance Armstrong Foundation for each lap we complete. In addition, should we be fortunate enough to come in first place in our class we will double our donation!

Please root us on to victory by agreeing to reward us and The Lance Armstrong Foundation for a job well done this July 7th. Fill out the linked form and mail or email it back to us!

Thanks in advance for your support!

-Aaron Nichols
Charity Motorsports Group

Posted On 7/3/07

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SCCA: A Weekend of Solo Proportions

Fri, 29 Jun 2007 04:18:07 PST

SCCA: A Weekend of Solo Proportions
By Erin Cechal, SCCA

TOPEKA, Kan. (June 29, 2007) It's a weekend for the Sports Car Club of America record books. For the first time in Solo history, a TireRack SCCA National Tour event and an SCCA ProSolo event are scheduled for the same weekend in two separate locations. More than 350 Soloists will hit the pavement over the next two days at the Atlanta ProSolo and the Peru National Tour.

Stop eight of 10 on the 2007 schedule, the Peru National Tour returns to its traditional Independence Day weekend date at the Grissom Aeroplex. In a welcome change of pace, Peru, Ind., looks set for a weekend of perfect weather, a comfort to those who have experienced the severe storms that have pummeled the event in season's past.

Four reigning SCCA Solo National Champions will be on hand in Peru including Bartek Barowski in D Stock, Crissy Weaver in F Stock Ladies, Matt Mccabe in C Street Prepared and Gary Godula in C Modified.

Further south, the Atlanta ProSolo is making waves with its DoubleCross Challenge at the Gwinett County Fairgrounds. The unique course design allows two competitors to race to the finish line without crossing each others' paths. Still incorporating the Christmas tree start, the contest sounds like it will be just as much fun for the spectators as it is for the drivers.

Speaking of drivers, all 18 in the Street Touring S2 class are likely breathing a sigh of relief to see that Andy Hollis, who is undefeated in STS2 so far in 2007, has chosen Peru over Atlanta. Expect a hard fought competition from this group of Mazda Miatas and Honda CRXs this weekend.

For more information on the Peru National Tour and Atlanta ProSolo, visit the Solo pages at www.scca.com

Attached Image: Steve Wynveen in an A Stock Honda S2000 at last year's Peru event.
Credit: Craig Wilcox

Posted On 6/29/07

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Rookies Win Battles, But Veterans Win the War in D.C. ProSolo

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 02:25:37 PST

Rookies Win Battles, But Veterans Win the War in D.C. ProSolo
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 26, 2007) After a break of nearly two months, TireRack SCCA ProSolo competition was back under way this past weekend at the country's largest National Football League stadium, FedEx Field, in Washington, D.C.

Competitors and officials alike were delighted that the weather was much more cooperative this year than last, when a Sunday morning rain shower of biblical proportions flooded the stadium parking lots. Thankfully, it was nothing but sunny skies shining down on the beautiful Lee Piccone-designed courses set up in the West parking lots of FedEx Field.

Several competitors from the recent TireRack SCCA Solo National Tour in Devens, Mass., were on hand, hoping for another successful Solo weekend in D.C. That includes Paul Kozlak and Lynne M Rothney-Kozlak, of Litchfield, Maine, who once again piloted the Red Haus Racing Chevrolet IROC in the F-Stock Category. In Devens, it was Lynne who took the win, but in D.C. both Kozlaks would be out-maneuvered by Sam Strano, of Knoxville, Pa. Strano was driving a brand new Strano Performance Parts Ford Mustang Shelby GT owned by Michael Snyder. Paul Kozlak would finish 0.667-second behind in second, followed by Lynne in third.

Boosted by her Devens win in Street Touring Extreme Ladies, Cara Ness, of Medfield, Mass., entered her first SCCA ProSolo event at D.C., and proved she was no one hit wonder by taking Ladies Class 1. Driving an H Stock Fun Hondas Racing Honda Civic Si, Ness beat out Karen Kraus, of Frederick Md., who is no stranger to the DC ProSolo after finishing runner-up in the Ladies Challenge last year at this event. Kraus was obviously on a mission this year in her Subaru Impreza WRX and turned the tables on Ness by taking the Ladies Challenge victory.

The tightest win of the event came in D Stock where the Chrysler Crossfires of Bryan Hertweck and rookie Keith Vail had quite the battle. It was Vail, of Pittsboro, N.C., who was able to pull out the win by 0.015-second over Hertweck, of Summerfield, N.C.

David Newman, of Allentown, Pa., backed up his first X Prepared SCCA Solo National Championship by taking his first Hawk Super Challenge win at the wheel of a 1970 Porsche 911. The final round was decided when veteran SCCA ProSolo competitor G.H. Sharp, of Kernersville, N.C., shocked the rest of the field and himself, by red-lighting the start of the second run in his Mini Cooper S.

Other challenge winners included Evanthe Salisbury, of Baldwin, Md., who captured Bonus Challenge honors in a Subaru WRX STi, and Chang Ho Kim, of Maynard, Mass., who drove a Honda Civic Si to the Honda Tuner Challenge victory.

There'll be no time off for SCCA ProSolo as the next round is set for this weekend, June 30 July 1, at Gwinnett County Fairgrounds, in Lawrenceville, Ga. The Atlanta Region will host the Doublecross Challenge. The unique event uses a course layout which allows competitors to go head-to-head in a race to the finish line without ever crossing each others' paths.

For full results from the Washington D.C. ProSolo and more information about upcoming events, visit the TireRack SCCA ProSolo page at www.scca.com.

Attached image: F Stock winner Sam Strano
Credit: Craig Beyers

Posted On 6/26/07

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Second half of the season starts off strong for BSI Racing with another Top-10 finish

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 02:17:30 PST

Second half of the season starts off strong for BSI Racing with another Top-10 finish
By Lauren Liebowitz, BSI Racing

Ormond Beach, FL - Tuesday, June 26 -- Another top-10 finish was in store for the BSI Racing/Team Garcia, Mazda MX-5 team in the KONI Challenge at Mid-Ohio this past weekend. The No. 56 Mazda MX-5, Joe Gibbs/MOMO driven by Todd Buras and Charles Putman finished in 10th place and the No. 58 MX-5, Joe Gibbs/MOMO/JustRacing.com Mazda finished in 18th with Justin Hall and Magnus Karlsson behind the wheel. With combined race results the team has earned seven top-10 finishes this KONI Challenge ST season.

Before the race, the driver lineup changed for the No. 56 MX-5. Carlos Garcia, who has started six races for BSI was unable to attend the race. Garcia's wife is expecting twins and Carlos did not want to risk missing their birth. Garcia will also be missing the Watkins Glen race this July and the team is currently looking for a driver to fill in. Fortunately, World Challenge driver Charles Putman was able to fill in for Garcia at this past week's race. Even with the last minute driver change, Putman worked well with teammate Todd Buras.

This was Putman's first time racing in the MX-5 but he did not have any trouble getting a handle on the car's setup. Putman was also racing in a GS car at Mid-Ohio and by race time he had learned all the tricks the track was willing to hand out. "The car was wonderful to drive and I could catch everybody at the key hole on track," said Putman. "At times going down the front stretch I felt like I was competing in a drag race. But I was not going to do anything crazy out there. I was able to catch many cars in the corners." Putman handed the car off to Buras during a yellow flag. Buras worked his way up from mid-pack and was running as high as 2nd place during the race.

Where the MX-5 lacked in speed the car made up for in agility and its hardiness. Other ST competitors were crashing on track and tearing apart their cars, but both MX-5's sat back and stayed clear from trouble.

The No. 58 MX-5 finished in one piece even though it was taken out early on in the race. The 58 car spun out and got trapped in the gravel pits. Karlsson then pit in and handed the car off to Hall. The amount of down time the car spent in the gravel pit was too long for Hall to get the car back on the lead lap. Although the team benefited by getting the lucky dog wave by, the No. 58 finished one lap behind the leaders.

BSI Racing appreciates support from MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development, KONI, Joe Gibbs Racing Oil, MOMO, SPEEDCOM Communications, BBS, Creative Motorsports Solutions, JustRacing.com and Sun Belt Performance Engines.

BSI Racing offers race car preparation, trackside support, fabrication, and parts for the Mazda MX-5. The race team will be campaigning Mazda MX-5 cars in the KONI Challenge Series and participating in the 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup.

For information on MX-5 rental and ownership programs, visit www.bsiracing.com
For information on Team Garcia visit: www.teamgarciaracing.com

Posted On 6/26/07

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SCCA June Sprints Wraps Up Action at Road America

Sun, 24 Jun 2007 02:31:28 PST

SCCA June Sprints Wraps Up Action at Road America
By Eric Prill, SCCA

ELKHART LAKE, Wis., (June 24, 2007) The 52nd running of the Piggly Wiggly Chicago Region SCCA June Sprints is in the record books. More than 400 drivers participated in the three-day event run in beautiful weather at scenic Road America. Sunday featured the final six of the nine races making up the action this year.

Highlighting the day was a thrilling 58-car Spec Racer Ford race, and a drive from the back of the pack in the final race that was, indeed, too good to be true.

Race Four:
Tony Swan, of Ypsilanti, Mich., went flag-to-flag for the overall and Touring 3 win in dominating fashion. The Car and Driver Executive Editor drove a Honda S2000 to his first June Sprints victory.

Lee Niffenegger, of Delaware, Ohio, captured Showroom Stock B, passing early leader Ross Andrews' Camaro and beating polesitter Jack Tippens, of Woodstock, Ill., to the checkered flag by 2.716 seconds in his Honda Civic Si.

Jim Drago, of Memphis, Tenn., was finally able to shake off Mark Bennett after being dogged for several laps to win Spec Miata by nearly five seconds. In Showroom Stock C, Joseph McClughan, of New Braunfels, Texas, picked up his ninth win of the season in dominating fashion, topping Gino Carini by more than 30 seconds in his Mazda 3.

Race Five:
Brian Schofield, of Lakeland, Fla., was one of five drivers to lead the 13-lap Spec Racer Ford race, and it took a last lap pass of both Mark Eaton and Lee Fleming to score the win. Fleming, of Lake Forest, Calif., finished second, 0.403-second behind.

Schofield started fourth, but was quickly into second behind polesitter Jeff Beck, of Ingleside, Ill., on the first lap. He made a successful bid for the lead on lap four, only to see sixth-starting and defending SCCA National Champion Mike Miserendino go by before completing the lap. Schofield was by Miserendino the next lap, leading laps five through seven.

Eaton, who started seventh, made a successful move for the lead on lap eight before Schofield re-gained it on lap nine. The lap-11 shakeup that put Fleming into the lead also dropped Schofield to fourth. As is often the case in Spec Racer Ford on the final lap, the draft and race strategy was critical, and Schofield shot through for the win. It was Schofield's second-straight Spec Racer Ford win at the June Sprints.

Race Six:
Defending National Champion Lance Knupp, of Fenton, Mich., went flag-to-flag in Race Six to take the overall and Touring 1 race win in his Chevrolet Corvette. Knupp was hounded early by the Dodge Viper of Jim Lynch, but held him at bay in a race that saw two full-course cautions and was forced to end one lap early, under caution.

Andy McDermid, of Grand Ledge, Mich., won the America Sedan portion of the event in his Ford Mustang, taking the lead when polesitter Tom Sloe, of Chagrin Falls, Ohio, had an apparent suspension failure in Turn 11.

Attrition also factored into the Touring 2 race, in which early leader George Biskup lost a wheel on his Dodge SRT-4 in turn 14, allowing William Ziegler, of Stamford, Conn., to take over the lead and win in his Mitsubishi Evolution.

In D Prepared, Robert Huffmaster, of Rochester Hills, Mich., topped the two-car field in his Mazda RX-8.

Race Seven:
Defending Triple Crown winner Hans Peter, of Overland Park, Kan., took a dominating win in C Sports Racing and overall after early leader J.R. Osborne, of Centennial, Colo., was sidelined with mechanical problems. Peter is well on his way to a second-straight Triple Crown, currently holding a substantial lead in his Divisional point race in addition to the Sprints win.

When Osborn retired, it gave the D Sports Racing class lead to Jean-Luc Liverato, of Alpharetta, Ga. Liverato held off Dorian Foyil to take the DSR win, second overall, in his Stohr WF1.

Local driver Bart Wolf, of Elkhart Lake, Wis., dogged defending Triple Crown winner Mark Mercer for much of the race before Mercer pulled off with a mechanical problem with two laps remaining, giving the Sports 2000 class win to Wolf.

Rusty Mitchell, of Wacorie View, Texas, came out on top of a great battle in Formula E for Formula SCCA cars. Mitchell held off Scott McQueen by less than a second at the checkered flag.

Race Eight:
Tony Ave, formerly of Hurley, Wis., scored a dominating and popular win in GT-1, driving his Chevrolet Corvette to a 9.190-second win over defending National Champion Philip Simms, in a Jaguar XKR. Before a late-race caution bunched the field, Ave had held a 20-plus second advantage.

Tom Patton, of Hamilton, Ohio, scored the GT-2 win in his venerable Sunbeam Tiger over Scott Sanda's Porsche. Rob Warkocki, of Frankfort, Ill., won GT-3 in his Mazda RX-7.

Race Nine:
In the final race of the weekend, Tonis Kasemets, of Mundelein, Ill., got the jump on polesitter David Grant, of Germantown, Tenn., and led all 13 laps in Formula Atlantic and overall.

In Formula Continental, Niki Coello, of East Troy, Wis., was beginning a bid to become the first driver to win three-consecutive Triple Crown honors. In a split start for Formula Continental, he got the jump on the field-a jump deemed as too good by race officials, which brought out a black flag for Coello to serve a stop and go penalty. Several laps went by before Coello made a move from the lead to the pit lane as the course went to caution, a decision that would later prove costly.

With Coello back in 20th place on the restart, Brian Tomasi inherited the lead, but it would be short-lived as his race ended in a turn five incident on lap seven, bringing out a second caution period. On the ensuing restart, Coello continued to slice through the field, taking the lead in the final laps and an apparent 2.346-second win. However, following the race, it was ruled that Coello's tardiness in reporting to the pits would drop him to last place in class.

The decision moved Bobby Caldwell, of Terre Haute, Ind., into first, with Chas Shaffer, of Catlett, Va., second.

Full, final results will be available on the June Sprints official Web site, www.junesprints.com.

Attached: Image of Brian Schofield leading the Spec Racer Ford pack at the June Sprints. Image by Dennis Wood.

Top five race results from Sunday's final six races at the Piggly Wiggly 52nd Annual Chicago Region SCCA June Sprints at Road America with finishing position, starting position in parenthesis, driver, hometown, car and laps complete. Race course is 4.0 miles in length.

Race Four
Touring 3
1, (1), Tony Swan, Ypsilanti, Mich., Honda S2000, 13.
2, (2), Patrick Jeffords, Elm Grove, Wis., BMW Z4, 13.
Time of Race: 35 minutes, 54.738 seconds
Margin of Victory: 1:11.825
Fastest Race Lap: Tony Swan, 2:44.275 (87.658 mph)

Showroom Stock B
1, (4), Lee Niffenegger, Delaware, Ohio, Honda Civic Si, 13.
2, (1), Jack Tippens, Woodstock, Ill., BMW Z4, 13.
3, (2), Harry Manning, Racine, Wis., Mazda Miata, 13.
4, (6), Jonathan Start, Caledonia, Mich., Mini Cooper S, 13.
5, (5), Ralph Porter, Kokomo, Ind., Mini Cooper S, 11.
Time of Race: 36 minutes, 39.341 seconds
Margin of Victory: 2.716 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: Lee Niffenegger, 2:47.433 (86.004 mph)

Showroom Stock C
1, (1), Joseph McClughan, New Braunfels, Texas, Mazda 3, 13.
2, (2), Gino Carini, Fox Point, Wis., Mazda 3, 13.
3, (4), Richard Clarke, Austin, Texas, Mazda 3, 12.
4, (3), Michael Jones, South Bend, Ind., Honda Civic, 10
Time of Race: 38 minutes, 3.721 seconds
Margin of Victory: 32.438 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: Joseph McClughan, 2:53.091 (83.193 mph)

Spec Miata
1, (1), Jim Drago, Memphis, Tenn., Mazda Miata, 13.
2, (3), Mark Bennett, Lagrange, Ohio, Mazda Miata, 13.
3, (2), Steve Welk, Plymouth, Wis., Mazda Miata, 13.
4, (7), Chris Prey, Oshkosh, Wis., Mazda Miata, 13.
5, (9), Justin Elder, Lakeville, Minn., Mazda Miata, 13.
Time of Race: 36 minutes, 51.885 seconds
Margin of Victory: 4.675 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: Jim Drago, 2:46.124 (86.682 mph)

Race Five
Spec Racer Ford
1, (4), Brian Schofield, Lakeland, Fla., Spec Racer Ford, 13.
2, (3), Lee Fleming, Lake Forest, Calif., Spec Racer Ford, 13.
3, (6), Mike Miserendino, Los Angeles, Calif., Spec Racer Ford, 13
. 4, (1), Jeff Beck, Ingleside, Ill., Spec Racer Ford, 13.
5, (8), Cliff White, Vail, Colo., Spec Racer Ford, 13.
Time of Race: 35 minutes, 6.543 seconds
Margin of Victory: 0.403-second
Fastest Race Lap: Jay Green, 2:39.773 (90.128 mph)

Race Six
Touring 1
1, (1), Lance Knupp, Fenton, Mich., Chevrolet Corvette, 12.
2, (2), Jim Lynch, Chesterfield, Mo., Dodge Viper, 12.
3, (3), John Buttermore, Bloomfield Hills, Mich., Chevrolet Corvette, 12.
4, (4), Al Longtin, New Lenox, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 12.
5, (7), Michael Tracy, Morton Grove, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 12.
Time of Race: 36 minutes, 20.321 seconds
Margin of Victory: 0.277-second, under caution
Fastest race lap: Lance Knupp, 2:26.129 (98.543 mph)

Touring 2
1, (3), William Ziegler, Stamford, Conn., Mitsubishi Evo, 12.
2, (2), John Buttermore, Bloomfield Hills, Mich., Cadillac CTS-V, 12.
3, (5), Bill Baten, Indianapolis, Ind., Chevrolet Camaro, 12.
4, (4), Steve Jenkins, Glenview, Ill., BMW M3, 12.
5, (7), Mark Boden, Winnetka, Ill., BMW M3, 12.
Time of Race: 36 minutes, 20.321 seconds
Margin of Victory: 0.552-second, under caution
Fastest Race Lap: William Ziegler, 2:35.481 (92.616 mph)

American Sedan
1, (3), Andy McDermid, Grand Ledge, Mich., Ford Mustang, 12.
2, (2), Philip Smith, New Albany, Ohio, Chevrolet Camaro, 12.
3, (5), Rich Jones, Scio, Ohio, Ford Mustang, 12.
4, (11), David Venhaus, West Allis, Wis., 12.
5, (8), Fred Hetherwick, Jackson, Mich., 12.
Time of Race: 36 minutes, 31.023 seconds
Margin of Victory: 6.602 seconds, under caution
Fastest Race Lap: Tom Sloe, 2:31.675 (94.971 mph)

D Prepared
1, (1), Robert Huffmaster, Rochester Hills, Mich., Mazda RX-8, 12.
2, (2), Ronald Pawley, Ft. Smith, Ark., Lexus IS 300, 12.
Time of Race: 36 minutes, 56.536 seconds
Margin of Victory: 1.061 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: Robert Huffmaster, 2:37.789 (91.261 mph), Record

Race Seven:
C Sports Racing
1, (1), Hans Peter, Overland Park, Kan., Swift Viking, 13.
2, (3), Matt Downs, North Mankato, Minn., Elan L1, 13.
3, (4), Jeff Miller, Elkhart Lake, Wis., WynnFurst, 13.
4, (8), Ken Davis, Escondido, Calif., Ralt RT-40 Viking, 1
3. 5, (6), William Goldkind, Holbrook, N.Y., Viking Toyota, 13.
Time of Race: 28 minutes, 3.426 seconds.
Margin of Victory: 54.816 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: Hans Peter, 2:06.177 (114.125 mph)

D Sports Racing
1, (2), Jean-Luc Liverato, Alpharetta, Ga., Stohr WF1, 13.
2, (4), Dorian Foyil, Nassau, Bahamas, Stohr WF1, 13.
3, (3), Chris Farrell, Salt Lake City, Utah, Stohr WF1, 13.
4, (5), Michael Reupert, Hubertus, Wis., Lola AMW, 13.
5, (7), Tim Micklos, Salt Lake City, Utah, Stohr WF1, 13.
Time of Race: 28 minutes, 25.992 seconds
Margin of Victory: 1.487 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: J.R. Osborn, 2:08.524 (112.041 mph), Record

Sports 2000
1, (2), Bart Wolf, Elkhart Lake, Wis., Carbir, 12.
2, (5), Michael Bautz, Mach. Park, Ill., Lola, 12.
3, (4), David Ferguson, Sunnyvale, Calif., Van Diemen, 12.
4, (6), Tony Sleath, Dearborn, Mich., Carbir, 12.
5, (10), Nick Mancuso, Lake Bluff, Ill., Lola, 12.
Time of Race: 28 minutes, 25.418 seconds
Margin of Victory: 11.183 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: Mark Mercer, 2:19.110 (103.515 mph)

Formula E
1, (3), Rusty Mitchell, Wacorie View, Texas, Formula SCCA, 12.
2, (2), Scott McQueen, Huffman, Texas, Formula SCCA, 12.
3, (1), Ian Harms, Biscayne, Fla., Formula SCCA, 12.
4, (5), Dennis Marklein, Dodgeville, Wis., Formula SCCA, 12.
5, (7), Jared Beyer, New Braunfels, Texas, Formula SCCA, 12.
Time of Race: 29 minutes, 13.530 seconds
Margin of Victory: 0.671-second
Fastest Race Lap: Scott McQueen, 2:18.437 (104.018 mph), Record

Race Eight
GT-1
1, (1), Tony Ave, Madsen, N.C., Chevrolet Corvette, 15.
2, (2), Philip Simms, Orlando, Fla., Jaguar XKR, 15.
3, (5), Simon Gregg, Shakopee, Minn., Chevrolet Corvette, 15.
4, (7), Rick Dittman, Prairie View, Ill., Chevrolet Camaro, 15.
5, (9), Mike Canney, Placida, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 15.
Time of Race: 37 minutes, 17.316 seconds
Margin of Victory: 9.190 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: Tony Ave, 2:08.396 (112.153 mph), Record

GT-2
1, (2), Tom Patton, Hamilton, Ohio, Sunbeam Tiger, 14.
2, (4), Scott Sanda, Western Springs, Ill., Porsche 911 GT3, 14.
3, (3), Gary Stewart, York, Pa., Porsche 911 GT3, 14.
4, (5), Timothy Gray, Eden Prairie, Minn., Porsche 911 GT3, 14
5, (6), Bryan Hunter, Chicago, Ill., Acura NSX, 13.
Time of Race: 37 minutes, 54.232 seconds
Margin of Victory: 5.561 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: Tom Patton, 2:22.733 (100.888 mph)

GT-3
1, (1), Rob Warkocki, Frankfort, Ill., Mazda RX-7, 14.
2, (2), George Cichon Jr., Rockton, Ill., Mazda RX-7, 14.
3, (3), Kenford Nelson, Novi, Mich., Dodge Daytona, 13.
Time of Race: 38 minutes, 10.267 seconds
Margin of Victory: 30.434 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: Rob Warkocki, 2:26.915 (98.016 mph)

Race Nine
Formula Atlantic
1, (2), Tonis Kasemets, Mundelein, Ill., Swift 014, 13.
2, (1), David Grant, Germantown, Tenn., Swift 014, 13.
3, (5), Brian French, Sheboygan, Wis., Ralt RT-41, 13.
4, (6), Fabio Castellani, Streamwood, Ill., Swift 014, 13.
5, (8), Paul Marciano Jr., Surprise, Ariz., Swift 008, 13.
Time of Race: 37 minutes, 9.196 seconds
Margin of Victory: 1.397 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: Tonis Kasemets, 2:04.018 (116.112 mph)

Formula Continental
1, (5), Bobby Caldwell, Terre Haute, Ind., Van Diemen, 13.
2, (3), Chas Shaffer, Catlett, Va., Van Diemen, 13.
3, (9), Brian Davis, Mequon, Wis., Tatuus, 13.
4, (6), John LaRue, Muncie, Ind., Citation, 13.
5, (12), Jim Victor, Davenport, Iowa, Van Diemen, 13.
Time of Race: 37 minutes, 57.931 seconds
Margin of Victory: 0.818-second
Fastest Race Lap: Niki Coello, 2:14.725 (106.884 mph)

Posted On 6/24/07

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Formula Vee Photo Finish Highlights First Day of SCCA June Sprints Racing

Sat, 23 Jun 2007 02:32:26 PST

Formula Vee Photo Finish Highlights First Day of SCCA June Sprints Racing
By Eric Prill, SCCA

ELKHART LAKE, Wis., (June 23, 2007) Brad Stout's photo finish win in Formula Vee highlighted the first day of race action at the Piggly Wiggly 52nd Annual Chicago Region June Sprints at Road America.

Race One:
Brad Stout, of St. Louis, Mo., traded the lead often with polesitter Michael Varacins, of Burlington, Wis., for the first 11 laps of their 12-lap race around the four mile circuit. Their battle allowed the cars of Bruce Livermore and Chris Jennerjahn to join the fight for the lead, and on the last lap, Livermore made a run at Stout coming to the finish. Stout was able to keep his Vortech inches in front.

Stout, already the only three-time winner of the Chicago Region SCCA Triple Crown, is now one-third of the way to his fourth. He now needs to win his Divisional Points Championship and the SCCA National Championship Runoffs in Formula Vee.

Brian Novak, of Dearborn, Mich., who started race group one first overall and in Formula 500, breezed away from the field in his Novakar, beating Steve Jondal, of Somerset, Wis., to the checkered flag by 26.228 seconds. Novak also set a new Formula 500 track record with a best lap of 2:24.850.

Race Two:
Defending National Champion Jim Goughary Jr., of Jupiter, Fla., survived a pair of restarts to win race two overall and the Formula Mazda class by 0.483-second over Robert Kaminsky, of Homer Glen, Ill. Cliff Johnson, of Leawood, Kan., won the Formula Ford portion of the race after early leader Tony Coello retired after 10 laps. Gerald Barrett, of Edmond, Okla., finished second.

The race was slowed by a pair of cautions, the final one to retrieve the car of Mishael Abbot, of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. Abbot was running fourth in Formula Mazda when her car touched wheels with another and rolled through the turn three gravel trap. Abbot, who is also scheduled to race in C Sports Racing on Sunday, was uninjured.

Race Three:
Defending E Production National Champion Lawrence Loshak, of Glendale, Wis., led flag-to-flag to win the day's closer in his Honda Prelude by 7.441 seconds over Tom Thrash, of Houston, Texas. Both drivers overcame engine concerns after qualifying, changing motors before the race began.

Steve Sargis, of Frankfurt, Ill., scored a runaway victory in F Production over the similar Triumph Spitfire of Dieter Griesinger, of Maple Park, Ill. In G Production, defending National Champion Chuck Mathis, of St. Jacob, Ill., recorded his second-straight win at the June Sprints in his Volkswagen Rabbit, topping polesitter Bill Wessel by nearly 12 seconds.

Chris Bovis, of Lawrence, Kan., inherited the GT-Lite lead on the final lap when race-long leader Jim Dentici's Honda CRX fell by the wayside. Bovis' Honda Civic was the only of the five GT-Lite starters to complete all 13 laps. Dentici was classified second, and set a new class track record with a 2:35.920 during the race.

Richard Root, of Kenosha, Wis., won the H Production portion of the race in his Volkswagen Rabbit over John Salisbury Jr., but it was third finishing Dan Meller, of West Allis., Wis., who broke the 22-year old track record, with a fast time of 2:47.469.

The final six races of the Piggly Wiggly 52nd Annual Chicago Region SCCA June Sprints begin at 10:50 a.m. (CDT).

Attached: Image of Brad Stout (35), Bruce Livermore (black car) and Michael Varacins moments before crossing the finish line in the Formula Vee race. Image by Eric Prill/SCCA.

Top five race results from Saturday's three races at the Piggly Wiggly 52nd Annual Chicago Region SCCA June Sprints at Road America with finishing position, starting position in parenthesis, driver, hometown, car and laps complete. Race course is 4.0 miles in length.

Formula 500
1, (1), Brian Novak, Dearborn, Mich., Novakar, 13.
2, (4), Steve Jondal, Somerset, Wis., Red Devil, 13.
3, (5), Kenny Price, Dewey, Ill., Scorpion, 13.
4, (9), Aaron Ellis, Farmington, Minn., Red Devil, 13.
5, (10), Tom Shaughnessy, Waterton, N.Y., Invader, 13.
Time of Race: 36 minutes, 29.329 seconds
Margin of Victory: 26.228 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: Brian Novak, 2:24.850 (99.413 mph), Record

Formula Vee
1, (2), Brad Stout, St. Louis, Mo., Vortech, 12.
2, (9), Bruce Livermore, Stilwater, Minn., Mysterian, 12.
3, (1), Michael Varacins, Burlington, Wis., SpeedSport, 12.
4, (5), Chris Jennerjahn, Hartford City, Ind., 12.
5, (6), Ron Whitston, Neenah, Wis., Protoform, 12.
Time of Race: 38 minutes, 22.318 seconds
Margin of Victory: About six inches
Fastest Race lap: Michael Varacins, 2:44.259 (87.666 mph)

Formula Mazda
1, (1), James Goughary Jr., Jupiter, Fla., Formula Mazda, 13.
2, (4), Robert Kaminsky, Homer Glen, Ill., Formula Mazda, 13.
3, (2), Jason Vinkemulder, Spring Lake, Mich., Formula Mazda, 13.
4, (7), J.R. Marchand, South Haven, Mich., Formula Mazda, 13.
5, (5), Lucas Downs, Largo, Fla., Formula Mazda, 13.
Time of Race: 39 minutes, 21.961 seconds
Margin of Victory: 0.483-second
Fastest Race Lap: James Goughary Jr., 2:18.247 (104.161 mph)

Formula Ford
1, (2), Cliff Johnson, Leawood, Kan., Piper, 13.
2, (3), Gerald Barrett, Edmond, Okla., Swift DB-6, 13.
3, (8), Arthur Foster, Salem, Conn., Van Diemen, 13.
4, (12), C. William Kephart, Colorado Springs, Colo., Vestal, 13.
5, (7), Jim Roberts, Rolling Meadows, Ill., 13.
Time of Race: 39 minutes, 53.456 seconds
Margin of Victory: 1.347 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: Anthony Coello, 2:23.812 (100.130 mph)

E Production
1, (1), Lawrence Loshak, Glendale, Wis., Honda Prelude, 13.
2, (6), Thomas Thrash, Houston, Texas, Mazda RX-7, 13.
3, (2), John Brakke, Fargo, N.D., Mazda Miata, 13.
4, (4), Michael Sturm, Grafton, Wis., Honda Prelude, 13.
5, (5), Terry Jesk, Mokena, Ill., Mazda Miata, 13.
Time of Race: 32 minutes, 57.120 seconds
Margin of Victory: 7.441 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: Lawrence Loshak, 2:30.485 (95.690 mph)

F Production
1, (1), Steve Sargis, Frankfurt, Ill., Triumph Spitfire, 13.
2, (2), Dieter Griesinger, Maple Park, Ill., Triumph Spitfire, 13.
3, (7), Roy Carrera, Milwaukee, Wis., Honda CRX, 13.
4, (4), Mike Gnadt, Kiel, Wis., MG Midget, 12.
5, (5), Rob Keller, Algonquin, Ill., Volvo P1800, 12.
Time of Race: 34 minutes, 14.630 seconds
Margin of Victory: 31.719 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: Steve Sargis, 2:36.437 (92.049 mph)

G Production
1, (2), Chuck Mathis, St. Jacob, Ill., Volkswagen Rabbit, 13
2, (1), Bill Wessel, Madison, Wis., Datsun SPL 311, 13.
3, (5), Bob Kelly, Crystal Lake, Ill., Volkswagen Scirocco, 12.
4, (4), Greg Gauper, Hubertus, Wis., Honda Civic, 12.
5, (6), Steve Nagle, Westmont, Ill., Volkswagen Scirocco, 12.
Time of Race: 35 minutes, 17.908 seconds
Margin of Victory: 11.460 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: Chuck Mathis, 2:39.605 (90.223 mph)

H Production
1, (3), Richard Root, Kenosha, Wis., Volkswagen Rabbit, 12.
2, (2), John Salisbury, Gurnee, Ill., A-H Sprite, 12.
3, (1), Dan Meller, West Allis, Wis., A-H Sprite, 12.
4, (4), Kris Larsen, Kewaunee, Wis., A-H Sprite, 11.
5, (5), Don Cross, Whitefish Bay, Wis., A-H Sprite, 11.
Time of Race: 34 minutes, 41.532 seconds
Margin of Victory: 16.528 seconds
Fastest Race Lap: Dan Meller, 2:47.469 (85.986 mph), Record

GT-Lite
1, (2), Chris Bovis, Lawrence, Kan., Honda CRX, 13.
2, (1), James Dentici, Oconomowoc, Wis., Honda CRX, 12.
3, (3), Robert Clark, Glendale, Wis., Honda CRX, 12.
4, (5), Darryl Wessel, Waukesha, Wis., Fiat 131, 12.
5, (4), Mike Alexander, Winthrop Harbor, Ill., Nissan Sentra, 7.
Time of Race: 34 minutes, 49.043 seconds
Margin of Victory: greater than one lap
Fastest Race Lap: James Dentici, 2:35.920 (92.355 mph), Record

Posted On 6/23/07

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Saini Sweeps MX-5 Cup Doubleheader at Cleveland

Sat, 23 Jun 2007 02:18:26 PST

Saini Sweeps MX-5 Cup Doubleheader at Cleveland
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

CLEVELAND, Ohio (June 23, 2007) Cleveland native Jason Saini couldn't have asked for a better homecoming this weekend, taking win number two of an SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup doubleheader at Burke Lakefront Airport Saturday evening. The Round Six race was part of the Grand Prix of Cleveland, presented by LaSalle Bank. Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., and Matt Cross, of Folsom, Calif., completed the podium.

Starting from his first-career pole in the No. 30 AutobarnMazda/SafeRacer.com MX-5, Saini's start to the second MX-5 Cup race of the weekend went much smoother than the first.

"Going into Turn One, I was in a little better position this time," Saini said. "I was in first place and I had the inside. I tried to go as deep as I could, hoping that if there was a melee behind me it wouldn't involve me and it kind of worked out. It was a much better Turn One than yesterday."

Saini exited the first corner with the lead, but had the No. 80 Hooverspeed/MobiTV MX-5 of Cross filling his mirrors. When Cross took over the point on lap three, the No. 70 Velocity-Club.com/SCDA1.com MX-5 of Elivan Goulart followed, and Saini found himself in third, being reeled in by his teammate Caddell.

"There were a couple of times during the race when I dropped back to fourth, but they were telling me on the radio that Ara [Malkhassian], my main rival in the championship, was way back and struggling. I knew that even finishing third or fourth, I'd still gain some points, but I never gave up. I knew that if I just stayed there someone would make a mistake eventually, so I just waited and watched the battle."

The current point leader's plan was right on target, as both Cross and Goulart made mistakes, enabling Saini and Caddell to work their way into the lead spots.

"We were on the radio to each other," Saini continued. "Our strategy was to work together for most of the race and then when we could try and get away, which we could luckily do in this race, we were able to get a pretty decent draft and just raced for it in the last couple of laps."

While it appeared that Saini had the best of Caddell in the closing moments of the 30-lap, 63.18-mile race, miscues by both drivers on the white flag lap made the MER teammates' final trip around the 2.106-mile temporary airport runway circuit the most dramatic of all.

"I went into Turn One and just missed my mark," Saini recalled. "I was trying to protect the inside and go in deep to get him [Caddell] to go in deep and go a little wide. In doing so, I looked up and saw the '2' marker, which was about 150 feet later than I had braked all race long, so it was a miracle that I made it anywhere near the apex. It was too much and Andrew was through. I knew that I had an advantage on Andrew on the back straight, so I was going to try a move in the chicane, but he made a mistake earlier, through five, and got sideways. I had a good run and just went down the inside. I just came out the lucky one on that last lap."

"What a great weekend to come back here and win both races," Saini beamed. "I never would have expected this. This is such a tight series, the cars are so close and there are so many talented drivers that to be able to win twice is just awesome."

The win is Saini's fourth of the season and his fifth-career victory.

Celebrating his 19th birthday on Saturday, Caddell fought back from a rough start in his No. 30 Team MER/AimSport/PinnacleMazda MX-5 to battle with his teammate for third by lap eight.

"I got the jump on Jason at the start," Caddell said. "We went down into Turn One and I got a little too deep and a little too wide and got out in the dust. I got way too loose and I think I fell back to fifth or sixth. From there, my dad was just telling me to put my head down and catch back up. All of the leaders started to fight, so that helped me get up there and I just kept trying to set consistent times and try to catch back up."

When Goulart and Cross made errors, the path was cleared for a Team MER one-two finish, but even Caddell himself was pleasantly surprised with the spirited battle that developed between the teammates.

"I was content to stay behind Jason for the rest of the race, but he got a little loose coming off of Four, so I got by him and I led for a couple laps. Then they threw the white flag, and he thought I was going to trick him on the outside and went way too wide into Turn One. I got past him there, but we both made mistakes on the last lap so I think we made for some pretty exciting TV."

The finish on the track reflected the current Mazda MX-5 Cup Championship standings, as Caddell now moves into second, 42 points behind Saini (184 to 142). Ara Malkhassian is now in third with 138 points.

Starting seventh, Goulart of Shelton, Conn., began the race with an excellent start that got him up into third on the opening lap. Although he did lead several laps of the race while battling with Cross, Goulart's race began a steady decline from that point forward.

"I learned my lesson from yesterday's start to keep it to the inside and avoid trouble," Goulart said. "I got through clean, which is good. Then I had a little battle with Saini and also with Cross. Unfortunately, Cross spun and went off course. Then those two guys [Saini and Caddell] took off and I couldn't keep up with them. I got a little understeer and with about 15 or 20 minutes to go with lost fourth gear."

Although he crossed the finish line in third, the No. 70 car was found to be underweight in post-race technical inspection and officials had no choice but to disqualify Goulart from the race.

As a result, Cross moved into third, his second podium finish of the season. It was somewhat of a consolation for Cross, who had lead the most laps of the race before getting his car sideways in Turn Three while attempting to regain the lead from Saini on lap 20.

The No. 7 Coolgas Ltd./Alara Racing MX-5 of Jesse Combs, from Woodlands, Texas just missed the podium, but did move himself to fourth in the Championship, just six points behind his teammate Malkhassian. Bob Michaelian completed the top five in his No. 19 Hooverspeed MX-5. It was a career-best finish for the Seal Beach, Calif., driver.

Both Brad McAllister and Pratt Cole moved up several positions in the race to finish sixth and seventh, respectively.

After a runner-up finish in Friday's MX-5 Cup Round Five race, Malkhassian had a much tougher go of it on Saturday, going completely sideways in Turn One on the start, but battling back to finish sixth in his No. 11 Alara Racing MX-5. In his march through the field, the Sonoma, Calif., driver clocked the fastest lap of the race, a 1:28.231 (85.929 mph), to earn the Hawk Hot Lap award.

Barry A. Fromberg and John C. Kuitwaard completed the top ten.

The series next heads to Trois-Rivieres in Quebec, Canada, August 17-19, for Round Seven of the Mazda MX-5 Cup.

For all the latest MX-5 Cup news and results, visit www.mx-5cup.com

Results from Saturday's 30-lap, 63.18-mile SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Six race, part of the Grand Prix of Cleveland Presented by LaSalle Bank at Burke Lakefront Airport Course with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps and reason out (if any).

1. (1), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 30.
2. (2), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 30, -.225.
3. (3), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 30, -13.796.
4. (5), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 30, -19.940.
5. (11), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 30, -20.376.
6. (8), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 30, -23.423.
7. (9), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 30, -23.630.
8. (4), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 30, -39.264.
9. (14), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 30, -52.692.
10. (10), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 30, -54.105.
11. (15), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 30, -54.892.
12. (19), Chip Van_Vurst, Pompano Beach, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 30, -57.717.
13. (13), Mark Jenkins, McKinney, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 30, -59.834.
14. (20), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 30, -1:10.193.
15. (23), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 30, -1:20.457.
16. (17), Mike Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 30, -1:20.506.
17. (6), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 30, -1:22.450.
18. (18), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 30, -1:23.069.
19. (22), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 30, -1:42.750.
20. (12), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 29, -1 lap.
21. (24), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 29, -1:09.756.
22. (25), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 27, -3 laps.
23. (26), Ed Brown, Henderson, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 26, -4 laps.
24. (16), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 23, Crash.
25. (21), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 18, Mech.
26. (7), Elivan Goulart, Shelton, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 30, -10.103, DQ

Time of race: 44 minutes, 41.107 seconds.
Average speed: 84.833 mph
Margin of victory: 0.225 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-2, #28 Jason Saini; laps 3-13, #80 Matt Cross; laps 14-15, #70 Elivan Goulart; laps 16-17, #28 Jason Saini; laps 18-19, #80 Matt Cross; laps 20-20, #28 Jason Saini; laps 21-27, #30 Andrew Caddell; laps 28-30, #28 Jason Saini
Fastest race lap: #11 Ara Malkhassian, 1:28.231 (85.929 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #28 Jason Saini, 1:28.174 (85.984 mph)

Attached image: In total, Cleveland native Jason Saini collected his first-career pole position and two wins at the Grand Prix of Cleveland.
Credit: Jimmy Sykes

Posted On 6/23/07

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Saini Captures MX-5 Cup Pole for Race Two at Cleveland

Sat, 23 Jun 2007 01:55:28 PST

Saini Captures MX-5 Cup Pole for Race Two at Cleveland
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

CLEVELAND, Ohio (June 23, 2007) Less than 24 hours after winning the first race of an SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup doubleheader, Cleveland native Jason Saini took his first career-pole for race two. Saini's MER teammate Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., completed the front row for the Round Six race, part of the Grand Prix of Cleveland Present by LaSalle Bank.

Further enhancing his return home to Cleveland, Saini earned his first-career pole and has put himself in a prime position for taking his second MX-5 Cup win of the weekend. Driving the No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/SafeRacer.com MX-5, Saini turned a 1:28.174 (85.984 mph) around the 2.106-mile temporary circuit at Burke Lakefront Airport, the fastest lap of the weekend for an MX-5 so far.

"I've been very aware that I haven't had a pole yet," Saini said. "It feels great. It was one of those classic things that going to this race as a kid, I've seen the qualifying battles where they'd trade fast laps at the end of the session and I did that. I was sitting in second and I came back in, but then I started dropping down the charts, so I decided to go back out. I had Randy Pobst in the back of my head, talking about how he'd take an extra risk or two on a qualifying session to get pole. I went into that final chicane and I did something I hadn't done all weekend long and it worked, so that's where I think the pole came from.

"I've got to thank the crew though, they've been putting in hundreds of hours, staying all hours of the night setting these cars up. We tried something new in practice and it didn't work too well, but we learned from that and put a setup on the car for qualifying that was fantastic."

Caddell, who started Friday's race from pole in his No. 30 Team MER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5, led much of the qualifying session with a 1:28.285 (85.876 mph), before getting dropped to the second spot by his teammate. Caddell is celebrating his 19th birthday today at the Grand Prix of Cleveland.

Matt Cross, of Folsom, Calif., in the No. 80 Hooverspeed/MobiTV MX-5 will start the race in third after putting in a lap of 1:28.597 (85.874 mph).

Runner-up in Friday night's race, Ara Malkhassian, of Sonoma, Calif., turned a lap of 1:28.665 (85.508 mph), putting his No. 11 Alara Racing MX-5 fourth on the grid. His teammate, Jesse Combs, of Woodlands, Texas, completed the top five with a lap of 1:28.782 (85.395 mph) in his No. 7 Coolgas Ltd./Alara Racing MX-5.

Andrew Carbonell, Elivan Goulart, Brad McAlister, Pratt Cole and John C. Kuitwaard completed the top ten.

Tonight's MX-5 Cup Round Six race is set to go green at 7:20 p.m. (EDT).

Full MX-5 Cup coverage from the Grand Prix of Cleveland is available at www.mx-5cup.com, including live timing with lap notes.

Starting lineup for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Six race, part of the Grand Prix of Cleveland Presented by LaSalle Bank at Burke Lakefront Airport Course, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:28.174, 85.984.
2, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.285, 85.876.
3, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.597, 85.574.
4, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.665, 85.508.
5, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:28.782, 85.395.
6, (58), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.072, 85.117.
7, (70), Elivan Goulart, Shelton, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.233, 84.964.
8, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.298, 84.902.
9, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 1:29.361, 84.842.
10, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.386, 84.818.
11, (19), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.400, 84.805.
12, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.641, 84.577.
13, (22), Mark Jenkins, McKinney, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:29.860, 84.371.
14, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:29.926, 84.309.
15, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:29.927, 84.308.
16, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.959, 84.278.
17, (47), Mike Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:30.342, 83.921.
18, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 1:30.510, 83.765.
19, (57), Chip Van_Vurst, Pompano Beach, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.673, 83.614.
20, (83), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.705, 83.585.
21, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:30.850, 83.451.
22, (21), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.884, 83.420.
23, (01), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.916, 83.391.
24, (5), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.334, 83.009.
25, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.775, 82.610.
26, (08), Ed Brown, Henderson, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 1:40.484, 75.450.

Attached image: No. 28 Jason Saini
Credit: Jimmy Sykes

Posted On 6/23/07

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McAlister Leads MX-5 Round Six Practice at Cleveland

Sat, 23 Jun 2007 11:25:38 PST

McAlister Leads MX-5 Round Six Practice at Cleveland
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

CLEVELAND, Ohio (June 23, 2007) Brad McAllister, of Portland, Ore., led practice Saturday morning for the second half of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup doubleheader, part of the Grand Prix of Cleveland Presented by LaSalle Bank. Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, and Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., were second and third fastest, respectively.

After finishing seventh in Friday night's Round Five race at Burke Lakefront Airport, McAllister topped the morning time charts in his No. 39 ACE Surgical Supply/H&M Motorsport MX-5 with a lap of 1:28.628 (85.544 mph).

"I was pretty fortunate during last night's race," McAllister said. "The cars held up nice and drove perfectly, so this morning we already had a good setup from the guys at RPM Motorsports and we're going to put our heads down and try to get on the podium this evening."

McAllister was followed on the timing screens by Saini, a native of the Shaker Heights area, who took the race win Friday night in front of a hometown crowd. Driving the No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/SafeRacer.com MX-5, Saini put in a lap of 1:28.737 (85.544 mph), nearly half a second faster than his fast race lap on Friday.

Driving the No. 30 Team MER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5 and polesitter for Friday evening's race, Caddell ended the session in third with a lap of 1:28.843 (85.337 mph).

Jesse Combs, of Woodlands, Texas, was fourth fastest in his No. 7 Coolgas Ltd./Alara Racing MX-5 with a lap of 1:28.883 (85.298 mph). Matt Cross, of Folsom, Calif., completed the top five, putting in a lap of 1:28.996 (85.190 mph) in his No. 80 Hooverspeed/MobiTV MX-5.

Andrew Carbonell, Ara Malkhassian, Pratt Cole, Tim Probert and Todd Buras completed the top ten.

Qualifying for today's Round Six MX-5 Cup race begins at 4:15 p.m. (EDT). The race is scheduled to go green at 7:20 p.m.

For full MX-5 results from the Grand Prix of Cleveland, plus live timing and lap notes, visit www.mx-5cup.com

Results from practice for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Six race, part of the Grand Prix of Cleveland Presented by LaSalle Bank at Burke Lakefront Airport, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.628, 85.544.
2, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:28.737, 85.439.
3, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.843, 85.337.
4, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:28.883, 85.298.
5, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.996, 85.190.
6, (58), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.459, 84.749.
7, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.669, 84.551.
8, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 1:29.708, 84.514.
9, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:29.763, 84.462.
10, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.856, 84.375.
11, (19), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.936, 84.300.
12, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:29.961, 84.276.
13, (22), Mark Jenkins, McKinney, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:30.402, 83.865.
14, (21), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.514, 83.761.
15, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 1:30.549, 83.729.
16, (83), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.641, 83.644.
17, (47), Mike Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:31.024, 83.292.
18, (5), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.103, 83.220.
19, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.110, 83.213.
20, (01), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.387, 82.961.
21, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 1:32.146, 82.278.
22, (08), Ed Brown, Henderson, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 1:40.451, 75.475.
23, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, no time.
24, (14), Brad Rampelberg, San Jose, Calif., Mazda MX-5, no time.
25, (57), Chip Van_Vurst, Pompano Beach, Fla., Mazda MX-5, no time.
26, (70), Elivan Goulart, Shelton, Conn., Mazda MX-5, no time.
27, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, no time.

Attached image: No. 39 Brad McAllister
Credit: Jimmy Sykes

Posted On 6/23/07

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Saini Gets Hometown Win in MX-5 Cup Race at Cleveland

Fri, 22 Jun 2007 06:10:47 PST

Saini Gets Hometown Win in MX-5 Cup Race at Cleveland
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

CLEVELAND, Ohio (June 22, 2007) Growing up in Shaker Heights, Ohio, Jason Saini always dreamed of racing at the Grand Prix of Cleveland. His dreams came true and them some today when he took the checkered flag at Burke Lakefront Airport for Round Five of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup. Ara Malkhassian, of Sonoma, Calif., and Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., completed the podium.

Starting second on the grid in the No. 30 Autobarn Mazda/SafeRacer.com MX-5, Saini's day was nearly ruined on the first lap with a wild ride through the infamous Turn One at the 2.106-mile temporary airport runway circuit.

"After the start I thought I was done for," Saini said. "Growing up here I've seen every wreck that's happened at Turn One. I just went in there hoping that it wouldn't happen in our race. I really have no clue what happened. I was running on the outside, because I started second, so I just wanted to hold the outside and not do anything crazy. But all of a sudden, cars just started hitting me from all sides. There were so many cars trying to pile in there it just turned into a parking lot.

"Then, the next thing I know three or four cars spun on the inside of me and I was hung out to dry on the outside, so I drove it in the grass. I've seen it before here growing up that if you get in that position and you're hung out on the outside, if you turn in, you're going to get hit real hard. I knew I was in a bad position so I just waited, jumped back on the track and I had a lot more work ahead of me from there."

That work included making up the ten spots he lost at the start while also erasing the five second gap the leaders had built up to the rest of the field in a matter of ten laps. In his charge to the front Saini, who currently resides in Fort Worth, Texas, earned the Hawk Hot Lap for the fastest lap of the race, a 1:29.151 (85.042 mph).

When Saini caught the lead pack of Malkhassian and Caddell on lap 10, a three-way battle began for the win. Although a podium was more than enough to keep his lead in the Championship points and finishing was crucial, Saini was motivated by the thought of a hometown win to fight until the end with both Caddell and Malkhassian.

"I definitely wanted the hometown win," Saini continued. "I've dreamed of racing here. This is a pretty special win for me. I wouldn't be racing if it wasn't for this place and to come here, go all the way back to 15th and come all the way back for the win, it's a dream night. Yeah, the Championship was always in the back of my mind and I knew I needed to finish and if I finished behind Ara I could still maintain my lead in the points, but I wanted to win. My family is here, my friends are here, even my old neighbors are here. This is just fantastic."

Starting fifth on the grid, Malkhassian's race began much like Saini's, but with a more successful outcome at Turn One as he slid his No. 11 Alara Racing MX-5 in behind polesitter Caddell.

"Matt [Cross] had a bad start," Saini said. "I cleared him and went back to the right, so at this point I was directly behind Andrew. I just decided to hug the right side and play it conservative. Then out of nowhere, a car comes flying across. It knocked into me. After the impact I kind of looked around and realized I was pointing in the right direction and just put my foot down. Andrew was coming up the outside and we had a drag race. He led the first couple laps, but then I was able to gather my composure and challenge him.

"I knew Jason was coming, I could see him in my mirrors. I knew it was going to be a three-way fight at that point. We [Malkhassian and Caddell] had a nice breakaway going and it was pretty much the two of us, but Jason was really cooking and was able to catch up to us. We went back and forth a few times and it was really good racing. Nobody had a distinct advantage around the whole track. We each had parts of the track that we were better. We really challenged each other and showed our strengths and weaknesses. It was a constant challenge; any little mistake or any missed shift and there's someone breathing down your neck."

Although it was his first podium since winning at Road Atlanta in April, it was a bittersweet runner-up finish for Malkhassian who led the most laps during the 63.18-mile, 30-lap race, but was unable to retake the lead from Saini on the final two.

"It's a really great track and we get to let the cars run wide and fast," Malkhassian said. "These two guys gave me a heck of a battle, but I was hoping that the race would end about two laps before it did.

Fresh off of his first professional motorsports victory at the Grand Prix of Portland, Caddell looked to be the man to beat starting on pole, but even he was not immune to the scuffle in Turn One on the start.

"I got into the side of Matt Cross when he was inside me and ever since then the tow was knocked out," Caddell said. "The car handled good for the first half of the race, but it eventually went off and that's when Jason got by me."

Caddell began to fall back after being passed by his teammate for second, but resumed the charge late in the race as the battle between Saini and Malkhassian heated up. Caddell did his best to make it a one-two finish for Team MER, but Malkhassian held strong and Caddell's No. 30 TeamMER/AimSport/PinnacleMazda MX-5 would cross the finish line in third, for his second podium of the season.

"I caught back up to them [Saini and Malkhassian] when they were fighting, but I just couldn't get by Ara on that last lap. There weren't any team orders or anything, we were out there just racing and wanted to finish up there and make it a great show. Plus, we had [team manager] Juliann on the radio screaming at us that we needed both cars to finish and that's all I wanted really. I was happy with a podium."

Starting 12th in the No. 09 O Water/Alex's Lemonade MX-5, John C. Kuitwaard, of Wantagh, N.Y., made an impressive run through the field to finish a career-best fourth. Andrew Carbonell, of Miami, Fla., equaled his best finish of fifth in the No. 58 BSI/Team Garcia/MOMO/Joe Gibbs MX-5.

Jesse Combs, Brad McAllister, Todd Buras, Rick Bellew and Elivan Goulart completed the top ten.

Saini increased his lead in the Championship to 32 points ahead of Malkhassian. With his second-consecutive podium, Caddell now trails Malkhassian by only six points.

The Mazda MX-5 Cup teams will put on another great show Saturday, when the series doubleheader at the Grand Prix of Cleveland continues with practice for Round Six of the Championship starting at 7:30 a.m. (EDT), followed by qualifying at 4:15 p.m. and racing at 7:20 p.m.

For results and series information as well as live timing with lap notes, visit www.mx-5cup.com

Results from Friday's 30-lap, 63.18-mile SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Five race, part of the Grand Prix of Cleveland Presented by LaSalle Bank at Burke Lakefront Airport with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps and reason out (if any).

1. (2), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 30.
2. (5), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 30, -.815.
3. (1), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 30, -1.154.
4. (12), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 30, -14.824.
5. (8), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 30, -21.303.
6. (6), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 30, -27.056.
7. (11), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 30, -27.583.
8. (16), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 30, -38.348.
9. (14), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 30, -48.805.
10. (4), Elivan Goulart, Shelton, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 30, -49.384.
11. (25), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 30, -55.158.
12. (22), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 30, -1:01.372.
13. (15), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 30, -1:04.695.
14. (13), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 30, -1:06.274.
15. (24), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 30, -1:06.443.
16. (20), Chip Van Vurst, Pompano Beach, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 30, -1:09.105.
17. (17), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 30, -1:16.044.
18. (21), Mark Jenkins, McKinney, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 30, -1:16.558.
19. (19), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 30, -1:16.752.
20. (10), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 30, -1:19.831.
21. (26), Randy Hale III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 29, -1 lap.
22. (7), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 29, -1 lap.
23. (18), Mike Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 28, -2 laps.
24. (27), Ed Brown, Henderson, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 27, -3 laps.
25. (23), Brad Rampelberg, San Jose, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 26, -4 laps.
26. (9), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 17, Mech.
27. (3), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 0, Crash.

Time of race: 45 minutes, 19.254 seconds.
Average speed: 83.643 mph
Margin of victory: 0.815-second
Lap leaders: Laps 1-2, #30 Andrew Caddell; laps 3-9, #11 Ara Malkhassian; laps 10-10, #30 Andrew Caddell; laps 11-19, #11 Ara Malkhassian; laps 20-23, #28 Jason Saini; laps 24-24, #11 Ara Malkhassian; laps 25-25, #28 Jason Saini; laps 26-28, #11 Ara Malkhassian; laps 29-30, #28 Jason Saini
Hawk Hot Lap: #28 Jason Saini, 1:29.151 (85.042 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #30 Andrew Caddell, 1:29.000 (85.186 mph)

Attached Image: No. 28 Jason Saini and No. 11 Ara Malkhassian race each other into the sunset at Burke Lakefront Airport in Cleveland, Ohio.
Credit: Jimmy Sykes

Posted On 6/22/07

This story has been read 48282 time(s).

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Fourteen Drivers Hold Provisional Poles at SCCA June Sprints

Fri, 22 Jun 2007 05:45:10 PST

Fourteen Drivers Hold Provisional Poles at SCCA June Sprints
By Eric Prill, SCCA

ELKHART LAKE, Wis. (June 22, 2007) Perfect weather and some record-setting runs were the story in the first day of action at the Piggly Wiggly 52nd Annual SCCA Chicago Region June Sprints.

Running in the heat of the day generally translates into somewhat slower lap times, but three of the classes ran faster than the existing track records, thanks to sunny skies and temperatures in the lower 70s.

Brian Novak, of Dearborn, Mich., captured the provisional pole in race one and for Formula 500 in his Novakar J360. His time of 2:25.732 (98.812 mph) around the 14-turn, 4.0-mile circuit fell just short of the track record, but Saturday morning could prove record-setting as Novak missed the last half of the session with a mechanical issue. Michael Varacins, of Burlington, Wis., earned the provisional pole in Formula Vee, with a fastest time of 2:43.432 (88.110 mph).

Defending Formula Mazda National Champion Jim Goughary Jr. earned the provisional pole for Race Two with a best time of 2:17.267 (104.905 mph). Tony Coello, of Palmyra, Wis., ran faster than the current Formula Ford track record to take the provisional pole in that class with a 2:22.577 (100.998 mph).

Defending E Production National Champion and June Sprints winner Lawrence Loshak, of Glendale, Wis., entered his qualifying session late, but still had time to uncork a 2:30.360 (95.770 mph) in his Honda Prelude and take the overall provisional pole for Race Three.

Defending F Production June Sprints winner Steve Sargis, of Frankfort, Ill., went nearly two seconds faster than his current track record in F Production with a fastest time of 2:34.106 (93.442 mph) to hold provisional pole by more than six seconds in his Triumph Spitfire.

Defending National Champions Chuck Mathis (St. Jacob, Ill.) and Jim Dentici (Oconomowoc, Wis.) took the provisional G Production and GT-Lite poles, respectively. John Salisbury, of Bristol, Wis., was fastest in H Production.

In Group Four qualifying, which will race first on Sunday, Robert Huffmaster, of Rochester Hills, Mich., bettered the Touring 3 track record by nearly three seconds with a 2:39.876 (90.070 mph) in his Mazda RX-8. Jim Drago, of Memphis, Tenn., was fastest in Spec Miata, turning a 2:46.416 (86.530 mph) in the closing moments of the session. Jack Tippens (Woodstock, Ill.) and Joseph McClughan (New Braunfels, Texas) earned provisional poles in Showroom Stock B and C, respectively.

In the final qualifying session of the day, Jeff Beck, of Ingleside, Ill., edged John Annis for the Spec Racer Ford provisional pole with a time of 2:38.661 (90.760 mph), 0.047-second faster than the current track record.

Saturday morning kicks off with final qualifying for the three afternoon races, with the other six groups having one session each for their Sunday contests.

Provisional pole winners for the first 14 class races at the 52nd Annual Chicago Region June Sprints at Road America with class, driver, hometown, car, fastest time and speed in miles per hour.

Formula 500, Brian Novak, Dearborn, Mich., Novakar J360, 2:25.732, 98.812.
Formula Vee, Michael Varacins, Burlington, Wis., SpeedSport AM 5, 2:43.432, 88.110.
Formula Mazda: Jim Goughary Jr., Jupiter, Fla., Formula Mazda, 2:17.267, 104.905.
Formula Ford: Anthony Coello, Palmyra, Wis., Van Diemen, 2:22.577, 100.998.
E Production: Lawrence Loshak, Glendale, Wis., Honda Prelude, 2:30.360, 95.770.
F Production: Steve Sargis, Frankfort, Ill., Triumph Spitfire, 2:34.106, 93.442.
G Production: Chuck Mathis, St. Jacob, Ill., Volkswagen Rabbit, 2:40.574, 89.678.
H Production: John Salisbury, Gurnee, Ill., A-H Sprite, 2:49.923, 84.744.
GT-Lite: James Dentici, Oconomowoc, Wis., Honda CRX, 2:39.519, 90.271.
Touring 3: Robert Huffmaster, Rochester Hills, Mich., Mazda RX-8, 2:39.876, 90.070.
Spec Miata: Jim Drago, Memphis, Tenn., Mazda Miata, 2:46.228, 86.628.
Showroom Stock B: Jack Tippens, Woodstock, Ill., BMW Z4, 2:46.416, 86.530.
Showroom Stock C: Joseph McClughan, New Braunfels, Texas, Mazda 6, 2:53.500, 82.997.
Spec Racer Ford: Jeff Beck, Ingleside, Ill., Spec Racer, 2:38.661, 90.760.

Attached: Image of Steve Sargis in his F Production Triumph Spitfire at the June Sprints. Image by Dennis Wood.

Posted On 6/22/07

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Caddell on MX-5 Pole, Saini Completes Team MER Front Row in Cleveland

Fri, 22 Jun 2007 05:40:10 PST

Caddell on MX-5 Pole, Saini Completes Team MER Front Row in Cleveland
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

CLEVELAND, Ohio (June 22, 2007) Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., captured his first MX-5 Cup pole at Burke Lakefront Airport for Friday's Round Five of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup, part of the Grand Prix of Cleveland Presented by LaSalle Bank. Caddell's teammate, Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, will start alongside him, making it an all Team MER front row.

At the wheel of the No. 30 Team MER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5, Caddell set a fast time of 1:29.000 (85.186 mph) around the 2.106-mile temporary circuit to take his first-career professional pole position.

"The course is challenging," Caddell said. "It's very fast with a lot of gutsy corners, but it's not a very hard track to learn. I finally figured it out in the morning practice and we got everything handling good and put it on the pole. When I went out and I got behind Jason and had a little pull with having someone to follow so that was good too."

When asked about strategies and concerns for the infamous first corner at Burke Lakefront Airport, Caddell's response was simple.

"I'm glad I'm on the pole."

Completing the front row is Cleveland native Saini, who turned a lap of 1:29.263 (84.935 mph) in his No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/SafeRacer.com MX-5.

Starting third is the No. 80 Hooverspeed/MobiTV MX-5 of Matt Cross, from Folsom, Calif. Cross recorded a time of 1:29.416 (84.790 mph).

Elivan Goulart, of Shelton, Conn., will start fourth in his first MX-5 Cup race. Driving the No. 70 Velocity-Club.com/SCDA1.com MX-5, Goulart clocked in at 1:29.609 (84.607 mph). Practice leader Ara Malkhassian, of Sonoma, Calif., completed the top five in his No. 11 Alara Racing MX-5 with a time of 1:29.665 (84.554 mph).

Jesse Combs, Bob Michaelian, Andrew Carbonell, Pratt Cole and Barry A. Fromberg completed the top ten.

Tonight's race, the first of two on the weekend, will go green at 8:25 p.m. (EDT). Saturday's MX-5 Cup Round Six program begins at 7:30 a.m., followed by qualifying at 4:15 p.m. and racing at 7:20 p.m.

Visit www.mx-5cup.com for full MX-5 Cup coverage from Cleveland including live timing and scoring with lap notes.

Starting lineup for Friday's SCCA Pro Racing Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Five part of the Grand Prix of Cleveland Presented by LaSalle Bank at Burke Lakefront Airport, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.000, 85.186.
2, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:29.263, 84.935.
3, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.416, 84.790.
4, (70), Elivan Goulart, Shelton, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.609, 84.607.
5, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.665, 84.554.
6, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:29.687, 84.534.
7, (19), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.718, 84.504.
8, (58), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.181, 84.071.
9, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 1:30.253, 84.003.
10, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:30.343, 83.920.
11, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.365, 83.899.
12, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.385, 83.881.
13, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:30.924, 83.384.
14, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.225, 83.108.
15, (01), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.334, 83.009.
16, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.381, 82.967.
17, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:31.402, 82.947.
18, (47), Mike Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:31.438, 82.915.
19, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 1:31.479, 82.878.
20, (57), Chip Van_Vurst, Pompano Beach, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.598, 82.770.
21, (22), Mark Jenkins, McKinney, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:31.626, 82.745.
22, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.906, 82.493.
23, (14), Brad Rampelberg, San Jose, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:32.225, 82.207.
24, (5), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:32.386, 82.064.
25, (83), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:32.438, 82.018.
26, (21), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:32.538, 81.929.
27, (08), Ed Brown, Henderson, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 1:39.442, 76.241.

Attached image: No. 30 Team MER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5 of Andrew Caddell
Credit: Jimmy Sykes

Posted On 6/22/07

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Malkhassian Fastest in First MX-5 Cleveland Practice

Fri, 22 Jun 2007 11:42:30 PST

Malkhassian Fastest in First MX-5 Cleveland Practice
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

CLEVELAND, Ohio (June 22, 2007) Kicking off a double-race weekend, Ara Malkhassian, of Sonoma, Calif., was fastest in practice for Round Five of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup portion of the Grand Prix of Cleveland Presented by LaSalle Bank. Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, and Matt Cross, of Folsom, Calif., were second and third fastest, respectively.

Hitting the runways of Burke Lakefront Airport for the first time in series history, several MX-5 cup drivers exchanged fast time before it became clear that whoever could break the 1:30 barrier would finish the session at the top of the charts. Cleveland native Saini did it first, but it was Malkhassian in the No. 11 Alara Racing MX-5 who put in a 1:29.792 (84.435 mph) as the checkered flag flew, to finish the session with fast time.

Driving the No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/SafeRacer.com, Saini's time of 1:29.950 (84.286 mph) was good enough for second fastest. Cross, in the No. 80 Jason Hoover Motorsports/Hooverspeed MX-5, ended the session third with a 1:30.517 (83.758 mph), despite an early spin and brush with the wall.

Bob Michaelian, of Seal Beach, Calif., turned a 1:30.645 (83.640 mph) in his Hooverspeed MX-5 to finish the session in fourth. Portland winner Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., was fifth on the time sheets in his No. 30 Team MER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5 with a 1:30.850 (83.451 mph).

Pratt Cole, Barry Fromberg, Andrew Carbonell, Jesse Combs and Elivan Goulart completed the top ten.

Qualifying for tonight's Round Five race, part of a doubleheader, is scheduled to begin at 5:15 p.m. (EDT). The race will go green at 8:25 p.m. Race Two is scheduled for Saturday night at 7:20 p.m. and will be preceded by new practice and qualifying sessions.

For all the event info from the MX-5 Cup doubleheader at the Grand Prix of Cleveland, including live timing and lap notes, visit www.mx-5cup.com.

Results from practice for Friday's SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Five part of the Grand Prix of Cleveland Presented by LaSalle Bank at Burke Lakefront Airport Course, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.792, 84.435.
2, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:29.950, 84.286.
3, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.517, 83.758.
4, (19), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.645, 83.640.
5, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.850, 83.451.
6, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 1:30.889, 83.416.
7, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:31.243, 83.092.
8, (58), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.250, 83.086.
9, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:31.325, 83.017.
10, (70), Elivan Goulart, Shelton, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.527, 82.834.
11, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.531, 82.831.
12, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.698, 82.680.
13, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:31.986, 82.421.
14, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 1:32.462, 81.997.
15, (01), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:32.738, 81.752.
16, (83), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:32.938, 81.577.
17, (47), Mike Jenkins, Fairview, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:33.074, 81.457.
18, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 1:33.292, 81.267.
19, (22), Mark Jenkins, McKinney, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:33.350, 81.217.
20, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 1:33.524, 81.065.
21, (21), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:34.342, 80.363.
22, (5), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:34.669, 80.085.
23, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:34.948, 79.850.
24, (08), Ed Brown, Henderson, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 1:42.857, 73.710.
25, (14), Brad Rampelberg, San Jose, Calif., Mazda MX-5, no time.
26, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, no time.
27, (57), Mike Gatto, Atlanta, Ga., Mazda MX-5, no time.

Posted On 6/22/07

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June Sprints Highlights SCCA Club Racing's Sizzling Summer

Fri, 22 Jun 2007 10:20:36 PST

June Sprints Highlights SCCA Club Racing's Sizzling Summer
By Eric Prill, SCCA

ELKHART LAKE, Wis. (June 22, 2007) -- Summer traditionally means barbeques, family reunions and spending time outdoors. This weekend, SCCA racers, families and fans will do that and more at the largest Club Racing National event of the season-the Piggly Wiggly June Sprints.

Chicago Region's gem again kicks off the summer season this weekend, with over 400 cars and an even dozen defending SCCA National Champions heading to the famed four-mile Road America circuit nestled in the Kettle Moraine, near Elkhart Lake, Wis.

For the 52nd-straight year, some of SCCA's best Club Racers become the focus of Road America's devout fanbase. Here are just a few of the stories on tap for the weekend:

Chicago Region SCCA Triple Crown

The June Sprints are the first leg of the Chicago Region SCCA Triple Crown, awarded to any driver that wins their class race at the Sprints, their SCCA Divisional Points Championship and the National Championship at the SCCA Runoffs. Since being formally recognized in 2001, the Triple Crown has been awarded 12 times. In 2006, Hans Peter (C Sports Racing), Niki Coello (Formula Continental) and Mark Mercer (Sports 2000) won the Triple Crown. All three are entered in this weekend's event, and Coello is shooting for his third-straight honor in 2007. Brad Stout (Formula Vee) is the only three-time winner and is also entered in this year's event.

Defending National Champions

It is unlikely that any other race preceding the Runoffs will have as many former SCCA National Champions competing (29) and defending National Champions (12) as the June Sprints. Defending Champs entered to compete this weekend include: the aforementioned Coello (Formula Continental), Mercer (Sports 2000) and Peter (C Sports Racing), as well as Jim Dentici (GT-Lite), Jim Goughary Jr. (Formula Mazda), Wayland Joe (GT-2), Lance Knupp (Touring One), Lawrence Loshak (E Production), Chuck Mathis (G Production), Mike Miserendino (Spec Racer), Philip Simms (GT-1) and Mirl Swan (Formula Atlantic).

Huge Entries

Spec Racer is no surprise as the class with the largest field, with 58 cars, but the next several classes may be a surprise for those who frequent SCCA Club Races across the country. Formula Atlantic has the second largest entry, with 28 cars, followed by Formula Continental and GT-1, each with 27. Formula 500 will get a big boost in its participation numbers (which are set to determine Runoffs eligibility in 2008), with 20 cars entered in the race.

The Schedule

Many cars mean many race groups. The 2007 June Sprints will feature practice, qualifying and nine races over the three days. Friday's activity includes practice for all nine races as well as opening round qualifying for the first five groups. Saturday includes more qualifying, with the first three races held in the afternoon. Sunday's activity will conclude with the final six races.

SCCA will cover the event through SCCA.com, and additional information can be acquired through the event's Web site, www.junesprints.com.

Attached: Spec Racers from the 2006 June Sprints (Image credit: Dennis Wood)

Posted On 6/22/07

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Toyo Announces the Proxes R888 R-Compound D.O.T. Approved Competition Tire

Thu, 21 Jun 2007 03:02:02 PST

Toyo Announces the Proxes R888 R-Compound D.O.T. Approved Competition Tire
By Toyo Tires

CYPRESS, CALIFORNIA June 21, 2007 -- Toyo Tire (U.S.A.) Corporation announces the official release of the Proxes R888 R-compound D.O.T. approved competition tire. The Proxes R888 (pronounced "R-triple eight"), has been designed to exceed the high standard set by Toyo's legendary Proxes RA1 for both amateur and professional racers. The Proxes R888 delivers outstanding grip and consistency for quick lap times, making it ideal for use while road racing, at track days and at high-performance driving schools.

The Proxes R888's tread design delivers a continuous center contact for excellent traction and directional control during dry braking. Semi-slick shoulder areas maintain large surface contact during cornering for an immediate steering response and ultimate dry traction. The combination of the two provides a large overall surface area for optimized contact pressure distribution during cornering, braking and acceleration.

Another feature, which benefits competition coupes and sedans, is a rounded shoulder which maintains greater contact with the track surface during suspension geometry changes in hard turns. The Proxes R888 is molded to a 6/32nd inch tread depth with a unidirectional V-shaped tread to enhance wet traction and control. Like the Proxes RA1, the Proxes R888 can be shaved to maximize dry traction for competitive events.

Proxes R888 design features include improved cornering stiffness and steering response by incorporating a high modulus filler located in the tire bead structure. This "reinforcing material", combined with a race-proven tread compound, results in quicker maneuvering compared to the Proxes RA1.

Overall tire construction is critical for performance and reliability. A jointless cap and edge ply ensures high-speed dimensional stability. This construction further improves upon the legendary "Toyo Tires consistency" recognized by competitors around the country.

"Toyo has enjoyed a long, winning history in racing. " said Steve Weinger, senior vice president of sales and marketing, Toyo Tire (U.S.A.) Corporation. "We anticipate great success with the new Proxes R888 as it takes Toyo racing technology to a higher level."

Currently, the Proxes RA1 is the 'official tire' in several classes of both SCCA and NASA competition. Toyo is working with both organizations to incorporate the Proxes R888 in upcoming racing seasons.

The Proxes R888 will be available in mainstream 17- to 19-inch sizes beginning this summer. Several additional sizes will be released through Spring of 2008. To learn more about the new Proxes R888 from Toyo, log on to toyo.com.

Toyo manufactures and distributes a complete line of high performance and original equipment replacement tires for passenger car, light truck, commercial truck, bus, off-road and construction applications.

Media Contact: Jay Jones, TMC
Tel. 949-851-6313, Fax. 949-833-0253
jay.jones@tmcauto.com

Posted On 6/21/07

Comments

mdadgar says:
6/21/07 14:50

Can't wait to try some of these. I love the RA-1s and anything that makes them faster is a good thing. It'll be interesting to see how these compare to the Nitto NT-01s, too.

Spin2Win says:
6/21/07 19:38

Interesting to see if they have an 18" that fits an E36.

NeilM says:
6/25/07 06:33

But the new R888 doesn't look as if it'll make a nice rain tire the way the RA-1 did. Too bad.

MungoZ06 says:
9/24/07 10:00

Anyon read any projections on when they'll have a 275/40/17 available?

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Hot Track, Hot Racing at Heartland Park Topeka

Mon, 18 Jun 2007 03:40:28 PST

Hot Track, Hot Racing at Heartland Park Topeka
By Erin Cechal, SCCA

TOPEKA, Kan. (June 18, 2007) There's no better place to spend Father's Day than at the track, which is where many Midwest Division Club Racers spent their weekend for the KVRG Salute To Workers National at Heartland Park Topeka. In stark contrast to last year's SCCA National Championship Runoffs, competitors were faced with blistering 90-degree temperatures and struggled to find grip on the greasy course.

Starting on pole in Spec Miata, Charlie James was looking for his second win of the season. James and Houston Region's Tony Rivera broke away from the pack early, but a nasty slide by James in Turn Four was all Rivera needed to pull alongside and takeover the lead. James was able to stick with Rivera through the remainder of the race, but never mounted a serious challenge. It would be the first of two wins on the day for Rivera who also took home the top E Production prize in Group 3, driving a Mazda RX7.

Colorado Region's J.R. Osborne reminded everyone who the reigning D Sports Racing Runoffs polesitter was by taking the class handily in Group Two.

Cliff Johnson was the early leader in Formula Ford, but his Piper fell out of the race just past the halfway mark. Eric Langbein, of the D.C. Region, was the benefactor in his Van Diemen, and was able to pull a gap quickly on the dueling Swifts of William Kephart and Bill Johnson. They would finish in that order.

Midwest Division Formula Vee point leader Lisa Noble was clearly on a mission as she weaved her Vortech from third to first in the opening corners of the race. After such a great start, Noble's day ended in disappointment just three laps later as her car slowed to a stop in the runoff area at Turn One with apparent mechanical problems. Polesitter Stephen Oseth inherited the lead and commenced a race-long battle with Stephen Dreizler. The two Vortechs shared a couple of side-by-side moments, some of which resulted in short lead changes. But Oseth, the reigning FV National Champion, was able to hold off Dreizler for the win.

The key to success in Group Three was staying out of trouble in the opening laps. Spinning cars shook things up in the GT-1 class, but not enough to stop current Midwest Division point leader Shawn Gray from running away with the win in his Chevrolet Corvette. Behind him, an excellent battle developed for the remaining podium spots. As Gray motored into the distance, the Corvette of Simon Gregg and Camaro of Douglass Johnson ran nose to tail before swapping positions on lap eight. Gregg attempted to use a thick batch of late-race traffic to reclaim his runner-up spot, but it was seventh-place starter Tom Smith in a Camaro, who stunned both Gregg and Johnson to take second place. Gregg finished third.

Texas Region's Paul Baynard Jr. took GT2 class honors, followed by GT3 winner Pete Peterson, of the Central Carolinas Region, both in Toyota Celicas.

Starting on the F Production pole, it appeared current FP National Champion Jesse Prather was on his way to another Heartland Park victory when second and third-place starters Eric Prill and Bob Bramlage immediately began to jockey for the runner-up spot. But Prill's Lotus Super 7 made quick work of Bramlage's Mazda Miata and spent the rest of the race reeling in Prather. It wasn't until Lap 16 that Prill would finally make his move stick on Prather, pulling alongside the Miata in Turns 6 and 7 and winning the drag race out of the chicane. It was Prill's second win of the season as he continues to lead the Midwest Division points.

Colorado Region's Cliff White had a flawless drive in Spec Racer Ford, while the battle raged on behind him. After breaking free of Michael Wold Steele, John Stickler was able to put a firm hold on the second spot, leaving Steele and Kenneth Sellenriek to continue the fight for third. Sellenriek would take the position.

Chris Bovis took a commanding GT-Lite win in his Honda CRX, his second of the season, as did H Production victor John Salisbury, of the Blackhawk Valley Region, in an Austin Healey Sprite.

Large victory margins abounded in Group Five, where David Wilcox took home his third Formula Atlantic win of the season in a Swift DB4. Atlanta Region's Jim Downing put several cars between his Ralt and the next C Sports Racing car of local driver Mike McGinley to take home the CSR win, while Cal Club's Joe Moran took the Sports 2000 win by a comfortable margin.

Also in Group Five, Sam Stuard, of the Susquehanna Region, made an impressive run from third to first on the opening lap in Formula Mazda. Ken DeNault was able to hang with Stuard for awhile, but soon had to worry about fellow Des Moines Valley member Mark Greb, who would go on to finish second behind Stuard.

Group Six closed out the day and there were no surprises in Touring 1, where polesitter Andrew Aquilante of the Philadelphia Region breezed to the win in his Chevrolet Corvette, followed by the Corvettes of Mike McGinley and Jerry Onks, finishing in their qualifying order.

In America Sedan, after a quick back-and-forth between Jim Wheeler's Pontiac Firebird and Kyle Watkins' Ford Mustang, Watkins, of the Colorado Region, took over the lead and motored into the distance for the win. Another Colorado Region member, Ross Andrews, led the Showroom Stock B group to the checkered flag.

For full results, visit the Midwest Division website at www.middiv.org.

The next Midwest Division Club National at Heartland Park is scheduled for August 18-19 and SCCA Club Racers across the country are eager to hear if the planned course changes will be completed in time for some early National Championship Runoffs tuning.

Attached image: Tony Rivera won both Spec Miata and E Production at Heartland Park Topeka.
Credit: SCCA/John Steflik

Posted On 6/18/07

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BimmerWorld Video: James Clay Utah In-Car Footcam Race Start

Mon, 18 Jun 2007 03:16:46 PST

BimmerWorld Video: James Clay Utah In-Car Footcam Race Start
By Bimmerworld Media Services

Blacksburg, VA - June 18, 2007 -- We thought you'd like to check out the video "BimmerWorld: James Clay Utah Race Foot Cam," now playing on Brightcove.com.

Utah was an event with promise, but made difficult by a team-wide flu that dampened the spirits and energy of the drivers and crew. Team owner James Clay wasn't spared. With an assortment of cold medicines and the warm sun steadying him for the race, Clay turned his 10th starting spot into a 9th place finish. But for some late race contact, he would have come home closer to the front. We shot the opening lap of the race-from the moment the light go out-to capture the fancy footwork needed to navigate the dozens of cars on a frantic opening lap. Please enjoy!

Video courtesy of Bimmerworld Media Services.

Posted On 6/18/07

Comments

brian says:
6/21/07 16:54

This is cool! Looks like kind of a bogged down start though with the extra clutch slipping eh? I wish we could see a tiny PinP of the window to see how it corresponds.

So much for teaching HPDE students "smooth on and off the throttle". :)

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BimmerWorld Video: James Clay Utah In-Car Footcam Race Start

Mon, 18 Jun 2007 03:12:34 PST

BimmerWorld Video: James Clay Utah In-Car Footcam Race Start
By Bimmerworld Media Services

Posted On 6/18/07

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P1-MotorSports Announces O Water Sponsorship Of Its SCCA Pro, Mazda MX-5 Cup Team

Sat, 16 Jun 2007 11:22:44 PST

P1-MotorSports Announces O Water Sponsorship Of Its SCCA Pro, Mazda MX-5 Cup Team
By eProdius Race Media

Wantagh, NY (June 15, 2007)- P1-MotorSports.com is proud to announce the O Water Healthy Hydration beverages sponsorship of the P1-MotorSports #09 Mazda MX-5 Cup Car. P1-MotorSports debuted the O Water Healthy Hydration MX-5 Cup Car this weekend at the Champ Car World Series Portland 200 in Portland, Oregon.

"I am excited about bringing O Water on board as our premier sponsor for the 2007 MX-5 cup season", said driver and team principal John C. Kuitwaard. "It's great to work with a company whose product you know is an industry leader", he continued.

Ed Slade Co-founder and Co-President of O Beverages says, "We are very excited about the exposure that P1-MotorSports and the SCCA Mazda MX-5 Cup series will be able to provide O Water Healthy Hydration beverages".

O Beverages makes two kinds of waters: 0 Water, an unsweetened (no-calorie) ultra-purified water with a twist of natural fruit flavor, and 0 Infused Water, a slightly sweet enhanced water to energize, provide vitamins and antioxidants or replenish electrolytes. Both waters use only natural fruit and herbal extracts and no artificial sweeteners to create bright delicious flavors. And both waters are naturally clear unlike typical sports drinks and vitamin drinks which use color additives. The brand seems to have found the "sweet spot" in the market which is increasingly looking for more flavorful alternatives to plain water, but without all the hidden calories and chemicals of sports and energy drinks.

For more information please visit: www.OBeverages.com

More News at www.P1-Motorsports.com

Posted On 6/16/07

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BimmerWorld: Frustration Follows Team From Lime Rock to Watkins Glen

Fri, 15 Jun 2007 11:11:19 PST

BimmerWorld: Frustration Follows Team From Lime Rock to Watkins Glen
By Bimmerworld Media Services

Dublin, VA - 6/12/07 -- Watkins Glen confirmed two things about the BimmerWorld BMW E90's: the cars are ready to challenge for wins with less than a year of development under them, and that if not for the black cloud that's been following the team for the past few weeks, the team's fortunes and finishing positions would be more to their liking.

Team owner James Clay has been trying to keep a positive outlook after another rough weekend behind the wheel. "The cars were fast and I felt great about the racing. I was 5th fast in Friday practice, so I was hoping to qualify in the area, if not better. In race 1 qualifying, I made 3 mistakes on my fast lap with the good tires under me, and it cost us on the stopwatch. The following morning, the track was much faster, but due to some miscommunications on the radio, I thought I had cruised to 3rd on the grid. When I realized that I was not even in the top 10, I went back out on track and got to work but the tires didn't have the same grip in them as when I first went out; the best I could manage was 15th for the second race."

Things didn't get easier in the races. "The first race was not at all what I expected from the first race of a two race weekend. I had a rough launch and that moved me back in the order--I had a great car though, and worked my way up nicely. I was in a great battle with Chip Herr for a bit, but after getting around him, I was stuck for a few laps between a very wide BMW until the double yellow. At the drop of the green, I had an excellent restart from my 10th position to move into about 6th place, but was shuffled back slightly in the heavy traffic. The same BMW came from behind to execute a pass on the inside coming on to the front straight. After being pushed off track toward the wall as we entered the straight, I pushed back to avoid contact with the immovable barrier, which got both cars out of shape, but my car was mostly undamaged. On the last lap of the race, another car locked up the brakes and slid into me, spinning both cars and sending me to the back of the pack. I'm tired of being on the receiving end of such over aggression."

If Clay's first race was a mix of frustration and disappointment, his hopes to right to wrongs of that event in the second SPEED TC race on Sunday. He'd never get the chance. "I didn't race the second race due to a lethal noise that popped up last minute from my engine. It was obvious that it would not last the race. If I could rewind the tape on the weekend and start over again, I would. All I can do is put Watkins behind me and start fresh at (the next race at) Toronto."

The greatest disappointment from the poor luck over the last few races has been more about lost opportunities to deliver the top results the BimmerWorld BMW E90's are capable of. "That's the problem; we've shown have fast our cars are and how much they've moved forward in the field. If it wasn't for a lot of silly driving we've been on the receiving end of, and some electrical and mechanical issues, we'd be right there in the championship. We're overcoming the car development issues-that's the best we can do to turn the tides in our favor," said Clay.

BimmerWorld BMW E90 #38 driver Seth Thomas must have felt he and James had targets on their backs at The Glen.

"I don't know what the deal is but I can't buy a break this year. Qualifying for the first race went really well; I qualified 7th, right behind Charles Espenlaub. The lap was a pretty good one and well representative of the speed of the E90. I knew where some of the time difference was for qualifying the next morning. The next morning came and I found the speed I was missing for the first qualifying. I went 2.3 seconds faster than the previous day! When I saw a 2:04.448 pop up on the Motec dash I thought that was the time needed for pole or close to it. Right after that I found out on the radio it was only good for 10th on the grid. This series is really strong in 2007.

"The race came and I was ready to move on up as I knew I had a better car than the guys in front of me. I got a good start and made up a couple of positions there. I was battling with James Sofronas for position and had him setup coming onto the front straight when all of a sudden I had no power. The car was running but the throttle was not responding. I cycled the electrical system to get it working again only to find myself losing a couple of spots. I caught up to PD (Peter Cunningham) entering the toe of the boot section of the track when I made a mistake coming in contact with one of the walls. With very little body damage I was able to continue but part of the suspension had broken. I found myself limping back to the pits with my day finished.

"Race two wasn't much better. I had a great start picking up two positions before turn 1 only to be hit while going in a straight line by the car I had just passed. His right front tire came in contact with my left rear causing my tire to go flat. I was the forced to drive the first lap of the race with a massively oversteering car. Once again the BimmerWorld crew did amazing work in getting me a new wheel and tire on the car, and back out on track in record time. I was then able to continue on hoping for a double yellow to help me catch the field, but it never came. The car was amazing though as I was able to turn lap times with the leaders to show the potential of the BimmerWorld E90. With a few laps to go I was able to catch the back of the field to make up a couple of spots.

"Basically this was not a great weekend for our team. Both cars had problems with contact with other cars in both races. We came there well prepared only to come away wanting a lot more out it. We were high in the points standing only come away with nothing to show and further back. This is not what the cars are capable of; this is not what the crew deserves for all the hard work they have put in. We're all tired of having bad luck and dumb luck bite us when we are performing well. The BimmerWorld E90 is a great car that will win this year; we will get out of this slump and get back to the good start we had this year."

The clouds have darkened a bit, but wishes for better fortunes still motivate the team to fight through the frustration. The streets of Toronto await BimmerWorld's assault.

Courtesy: BimmerWorld Media Services
mediaservices@bimmerworld.com

More information about the team, cars, and drivers can be found at www.bimmerworldracing.com
Information on BimmerWorld's Customer Car Services can be found at www.bimmerworld.com
Details on PowerFlex Suspension Bushings can be found at www.powerflexusa.com

The BimmerWorld team is proudly supported by: Silkolene, Ground Control, BBS, Moton, Bimmerforums.com, Performance Friction, Diffsonline, JB Racing, and Rogue Engineering

Posted On 6/15/07

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SCCA Launches MySCCA.com

Wed, 13 Jun 2007 04:42:33 PST

SCCA Launches MySCCA.com
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

IRVINE, Calif. (June 13, 2007) -- Sports Car Club of America, Inc. (SCCA) and Haymarket Worldwide announced today the launch of MySCCA.com, a community Web site for SCCA members and enthusiasts. MySCCA.com allows members of the site to post photos and videos, create blogs and form groups of members with similar interests.

Developed for SCCA members to meet up online and post user-generated content about their SCCA activities as well as images and in-car video of their racing ventures, MySCCA.com also allows users to create groups so members with similar interests, motorsports-related or otherwise, have a central gathering point. Other features include the ability to create debates, discussions, promote events and share information about individual racecars with the rest of the community.

"It is no secret that online communities are a part of our current culture, and since SCCA is very much a culture, lifestyle and family to its members, the creation of MySCCA was a logical evolution of our communications," said Eric Prill, SCCA Vice President of Marketing and Communications. "We feel that MySCCA will become a part of many members' everyday life, and enhance their overall SCCA experience."

Haymarket Worldwide, in conjunction with Xystar Technologies of Toronto, Canada, developed the site. The venture furthers the relationship between SCCA and Haymarket Worldwide, which publishes the Club's official publication, SportsCar magazine.

"The SCCA is a very social organization, all about participation and interaction between members," says Ian Havard, Publisher at Haymarket Worldwide. "MySCCA.com is a way of continuing that interaction online. It's a place where the community can come together to share their experiences through videos, photos, blogs and more.

"The creation of MySCCA.com is an extension of SportsCar magazine; it provides a means of communication from the Club to its members and back. The site is a place online where people who already share a love of automobiles and motorsports competition can enjoy their passion in new ways."

MySCCA is live now, and can be found at www.myscca.com and through a link at www.scca.com.

ABOUT SCCA: Founded in 1944, Sports Car Club of America, Inc. is a 55,000-plus-member motorsports organization that incorporates all facets of autocross, rally and road racing at both club and professional levels. It annually sanctions over 2,000 events through its 112 regions and professional subsidiary. Landmark events and series for the Club include the SCCA SPEED World Challenge Championships; the Club Racing National Championship Runoffs presented by AT&T at Heartland Park Topeka; and The Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Championships and ProSolo Finale at Topeka, Kan. For more information, please visit www.scca.com.

ABOUT HAYMARKET WORLDWIDE: Based in Irvine, Calif., Haymarket Worldwide produces America's premier general-interest motorsports monthly magazine, RACER, along with specialty publications such as SportsCar for the SCCA, IndyCar Series, and FJ Cruiser magazine for Toyota, along with the MyRACER.com Web site and content for SPEEDtv.com. It is a subsidiary of London-based Haymarket, the United Kingdom's largest privately held publisher that produces titles such as Autosport, F1 Racing and Stuff.

Posted On 6/13/07

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Chip Herr's Insight: The Highs And Lows Of Touring Car Racing

Wed, 13 Jun 2007 04:29:14 PST

Chip Herr's Insight: The Highs And Lows Of Touring Car Racing
By Chip Herr, STaSIS Engineering World Challenge Team

JustRacing.com is proud to present a combined Parts 2 & 3 of an exclusive 10-part column by World Challenge veteran and STaSIS Audi driver Chip Herr over the course of the 2007 SPEED World Challenge Touring Car season.

Heading to Salt lake City a few days early to be at Cutrubus Audi for an autograph signing with my racecar on Saturday before the event. I flew in Friday and met the truck driver at midnight Friday night. After a few hours of sleep I get the car to Cutrubus just before they open for business. Spending the day with their employees and a bunch of loyal customers we left the car there until monday which was the day we were headed to the track to get all the rigs parked.

Before the first practice session on the promoter test day my teammate Dino found out his father wasn't doing well and had to leave the event. This left me to test his car and my car to prepare for the weekend. During this time Adam Pecorari had called and showed a lot of interest to drive with us again. We made a phone call and within a day he was there. Testing went well but times were a little off from the previous year. I ended up after each session I was working with Adam to get him up to speed. He had never been to the track and it is very long being that it is 24 turns and 4.5 miles long. After qualifying I was 7th and kinda in a good spot, the other two were 13th and 14th. Adam had spun out and flat spotted his tires and decided to start from the rear with 4 brand new Toyo's.

On the start of the race I got a really bad start since our rev limit in first gear is 4500 now. With the AWD either you bog or you spin the tires to get the car going. I fell back to about 11th and knew I had a long race ahead of me. During the second lap I heard the power steering start to get a little noisy and knew with the heat if there was a problem that it wasn't going to last(power steering that is). I was running 7th and the car was really smoking and the steering was getting worse each and every lap. At this point I was glad all my hard work in the gym payed off because of all the extra strength I had to use to get the car around the track.

Unfortunately with 4 laps to go SCCA black flagged me and brought me in for a pit stop to fix the problem. I came in the pits and the boys did some work to get the fluid to stop leaking and sent me back out to at least get some points.I ended up 18th but we finished and got some points. Historically Miller has been ruff on our cars and again it did its job on my car again. I kept my head up and look forward to Lime Rock were I have done very well in the past.

During the time between events I found out I have a new teammate for the remainder of the season, Adam Pecorari. Adam is going to be a great asset to the team, he is quick and seems to be a team player. Once we all got to Limerock the promotor test day went really well. I made some changes on front spring rate and worked on getting the brake bias perfect. The changes I made were going into the last practice. During the two test days I was about 4-6 quickest. I wasn''t sure if other teams were showing everything they had but I knew we were running really hard. Once qualifying came I went out in 8th place (my position in the standings) and tried to lay a flyer right away and not use up the tires so I can save them for the race.

On the first lap Pierre and I had the same exact time to be on the pole at a 58.392! Wow has that ever happened before? On the second lap I came in to see how everyone would go after laying that time. Since it is a small track within a minute Pierre had laid a second fast lap that was .2 faster and secured the pole for himself. I ended up waiting in the car during the session to make sure I stayed in the top 5. At the end I was second and starting from the outside of the front row. I told the team not to make any changes that the car was perfect. I have to say since we qualified saturday and raced monday evening...it was long and I couldn't wait to get in the car and get it over with.

Once the race came I knew I was ready but was okay with a podium finish, even though I always want to win! When the red lights came on I got a decent start and my plan was to drive right over to Pierre's door that way he was the only one I had to race into turn one. Luckily I did that because James in the BMW got a great start and wanted to go between us. I barely got the lead by turn one and was able to hold Pierre off for at least 5 laps. There was a crash in West Bend and when I came up on the incident I saw the debris flag and went through at 90% just to be cautious and still got into some grass patches which made the car slide. Pierre got a better run and got right up beside me going down the hill onto the front straight. There was a double yellow for a few laps while they clean that up, but once we went green again I was holding second but trying to catch Pierre. I was loosing ground to him slowly but knew it was a long race.

A little more than half way through the race I started to catch Pierre rather quickly. I ended up passing him on the front straight and hearing the motor making a missing noise as if there was a spark plug problem. I had a decent lead at that point over James. I was holding a 2-3 second gap but then he started to put pressure on me. I was trying to save the tires to make sure if I needed to race someone I had the best car possible. I was able to hold of James and take my fourth touring car victory at Lime Rock park!

I very exciting weekend all the STaSIS cars finished in the top 8 and I had the fastest race lap. I want to thank MAHLE, SAFERACER.COM, STASIS, STONER CAR CARE PRODUCTS, RED BULL, and my friends and family for all their continued support! See you next race when I am racing Watkins Glen for a double touring car race in the Audi and I am also Driving for Tom Oates in the Corvette Z06 for World Challenge GT!! Should be exciting.

- Chip

Posted On 6/13/07

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Formula TR PRO 2007 Championship At The Half Way Point

Wed, 13 Jun 2007 02:01:03 PST

Formula TR PRO 2007 Championship At The Half Way Point
By Mike Mills, ADZEN

Rounds 9 and 10 of the 2007 Formula TR PRO Championship in the 1600 Series and the 2000 Series were conducted at Buttonwillow Raceway Park over the June 9-10 weekend. The weather was outstanding albeit warm, perhaps preparing the drivers and crew for the challenges of hot weather that is in store for the last half of the championship season.

Round 9 qualifying saw Sergio Pena, #58 JP Motorsports, on the pole of the 1600 class which had fewer entries this weekend due to the school year ending. Luis Martinez, Jr., #3 Position One Motorsports, bested the 2000 class by half a second on the three mile circuit.

The race was well run with the competitors in both classes well aware of the passing constraints enforced by the technical nature of the track. Liam Kenney, #95 Liam Kenney Motorsports, overtook, after eight laps of the 16 laps race, Luis Martinez after leaping from fourth to second on the first lap. John Knudsen, #7 Knudsen, Knudsen Racing, ran a steady pace starting and finishing in third in the 2000 class. In the 1600 class Kristen Braun, #70 Kimball Williams Racing, jumped to the front on the first lap with the pole sitter Sergio Pena slipping to third behind Ryan Booth, #4 Knudsen Racing. Pena regained the lead by the end of the second lap and the three finished in that order.

Round 10 qualifying for the 1600 class found Ryan Booth, #4 Knudsen Racing, on the pole with almost a one and a half second improvement over his Round 9 qualifying times. Luis Martinez Jr. again topped the 2000 class to secure the poll for the start of Round 10.

The 1600 class in Round 10 saw Joshua Goshen, #83 Goshen Racing, slip from second to fourth and Sergio Pena, #58 JP Motorsports, jump from fourth to second with Kristen Braun, #70 Kimball Williams Racing, running a consistent third and Ryan Booth, #4 Knudsen Racing, start and finish at the head of the class.

The 2000 class was lead from poll to poll by Luis Martinez Jr. in his #3 Position One Motorsports entry. Behind him John Knudsen, #7 Knudsen Racing, was running a strong second with Bill Goshen, #82 Goshen Racing, in third and Liam Kenney, #95 Liam Kenney Motorsports. All were trying hard to make passing opportunities for themselves when Knudsen made an error and left the track briefly allowing Goshen into second. Kenney was capitalizing on Knudsen's error as Knudsen returned to the racing surface and a contact occurred with Kenney suffering damage and Knudsen slipping into third position. The race finished Martinez Jr., first, Goshen, second, and Knudsen third.

With the first half of the 2007 Championship season complete the top five in each class are:

1600 - Pena (301); Booth (281); J. Goshen (225); Snider (186) and K. Braun (156)
2000 - Knudsen (281); B. Goshen (261); Martinez Jr. (237); Kenney (221) and Franck (217)

The second half of the season kicks off at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah on July 13-14 with Rounds 11 and 12. This event will be in conjunction with the NASCAR Grand National West race being conducted on the outside loop configuration of the 4.5 mile road course.

About Formula
TR Formula TR (Tatuus Renault) provides a development series for young drivers progressing from karting into professional formula car racing as early as age 14. The series was established in 2002 and features both 1600cc and 2000cc carbon fiber open wheel chassis built by Tatuus and powered by Renault. The series consists of 20 races conducted over 10 weekends at tracks throughout the western US. Visit www.FormulaTR.com for more information.

About Adzen
Adzen is a motor sport marketing and management company which provides marketing support for drivers, series, and events as well as website design and update services. Learn more about Adzen at www.Adzen.biz.

Posted On 6/13/07

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Watkins Glen Touring Car Incident Draws Penalty

Wed, 13 Jun 2007 01:50:35 PST

Watkins Glen Touring Car Incident Draws Penalty
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (June 13, 2007) SCCA Pro Racing announced today a revision in the SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car point standings following Sunday's Round Five race at Watkins Glen International.

Following the decision of a protest filed by RealTime Racing, Jeff Altenburg, driver of the No. 72 Mazda 6, was fined 10 Drivers' Championship points and one Manufacturers' Championship point for the lap-12 incident with Pierre Kleinubing's No. 1 Acura TSX.

Altenburg has expressed intent to appeal the decision. Results will remain provisional until the appeal has been heard.

For updated point standings, please visit www.world-challenge.com.

Attached: Image of Jeff Altenburg at Watkins Glen (Mark Weber/SCCA Image)

Posted On 6/13/07

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SCCA Soloists Battle Rain and Cones in Devens

Tue, 12 Jun 2007 01:46:03 PST

SCCA Soloists Battle Rain and Cones in Devens
By Erin Cechal, SCCA

DEVENS, Mass. (June 12, 2007) Heavy rain and lightning on Saturday couldn't dampen the spirits of SCCA Soloists in Devens. Competitors were rewarded with much more pleasant weather on Sunday for the seventh stop on the 2007 Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Tour.

Christopher I. Carris, of Fishkill, N.Y., was the victor in a large A Stock field. Carris powered his Subaru WRX STi to a 1.404-second win over 13 other competitors thanks to a blistering Sunday run of 55.291 seconds, which was untouchable by the other A Stockers.

Another large crowd could be found in F Stock, where Lynne M Rothney-Kozlak, of Litchfield, Maine, took home the first place trophy in a Red Haus Racing Chevrolet IROC 350, which she shared with her husband Paul who finished fourth.

Cara Ness, of Medfield, Mass., was the class of the field in the Street Touring Xtreme Ladies category, beating out the competition by 7.611 seconds in the Fun Hondas Racing Honda Civic Si. The same car would also take STX honors at the hands of Robert Lapierre, from Sturbridge, Mass.

The cross country trip from Vancouver, Wash., was well worth it for Jerry Jenkins who took the E Stock victory in the Americas Tire/Maynard Racing Mazda Miata.

Cones became a deciding factor in E Prepared where Andrew S. Furlong, of Johnstown, N.Y., beat out Paul Krysiak, of Tolland, Conn., by just 0.017-second. At the wheel of a Volkswagen Rabbit GTI, Furlong had one less cone than Krysiak in the AT&T/Hoosier Tire East Honda Civic.

A similar tale played out in Street Touring S, where Chris Shenfeild, of Dallas, Pa., won the class in a Bridgestone/RedShift Motorsports Honda Civic Si by 0.180-second over Keith P Casey, of Somerset, Mass., who had multiple cone penalties in his RallyDecals.com/Fun Hondas Racing Honda Civic Si.

Saturday's Pace Hot Pursuit Award for the most consistent lap times of the day went to William Goodale, of Milford, Mass., who also won the A Modified class in his Dragon F1. Brian Reeves, of Rochester, N.Y., in D Prepared was the Sunday Pace Hot Pursuit winner. Both Goodale and Reeves are now entered to win a Pace Pursuit trailer at the end of the season.

For full results from the Devens National Tour and more information about SCCA Solo, visit www.scca.com

The next stop on the 2007 Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Tour is the Grissom Aeroplex in Peru, Ind., June 30 July 1.

Attached image: Street Touring Xtreme Ladies winner Cara Ness.
Credit: Robert Barone

Posted On 6/12/07

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SCCA Promotes Ozment to VP of Club Racing

Tue, 12 Jun 2007 01:39:31 PST

SCCA Promotes Ozment to VP of Club Racing
By Eric Prill, SCCA

TOPEKA, Kan. (June 12, 2007) Sports Car Club of America, Inc. announced today that Terry Ozment has been promoted to Vice President, Club Racing.

Ozment joined the SCCA staff in September 2004 as its Director of Club Racing. She came to the company after 30 years in sales and marketing for AT&T.

"Since coming on board, Terry has done an outstanding job with the Club Racing program," SCCA President and CEO Jim Julow said. "She has been integral in growing new programs, including Time Trials and PDXs, and did a great job leading her staff through the transition of venues for the Club's most visible event-the Runoffs. Terry is a true asset for the entire organization."

Ozment has been an active SCCA member since 1981, holding licenses in Flagging & Communications, Race Control, Registration and Timing & Scoring. A member of the Race Stewards program for 10 years, she previously served as the Chief Steward for the June Sprints, traditionally the largest SCCA Club Racing National event. A former member of the Chicago Region and Land O' Lakes Region Boards, Ozment has also served as the Regional Executive of the Chicago Region, as well as providing key support in that region's sponsorship and marketing efforts.

A graduate of Saint Cloud State University, Saint Cloud, Minn., Ozment was a career AT&T employee from her high school days until moving to Topeka, Kan. for the Club Racing Director position.

Attached: Image of SCCA Vice President, Club Racing Terry Ozment

Posted On 6/12/07

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Caddell Gets Maiden MX-5 Cup Victory at Portland

Sun, 10 Jun 2007 01:24:43 PST

Caddell Gets Maiden MX-5 Cup Victory at Portland
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

PORTLAND, Ore. (June 10, 2007) Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., took his first career-win at Portland International Raceway for Round Four of the SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup, part of the Mazda Grand Prix of Portland Presented by Joe's. Pratt Cole, of Salt Lake City, Utah, and Jesse Combs, of Woodlands, Texas, completed the podium.

Starting second on the grid in his No. 30 TeamMER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5, Caddell dropped to third on the opening lap when his MER teammate Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, got the better start in his No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/Saferacer.com MX-5. The pair followed the No. 39 ACE Surgical Supply/H&M Motorsport MX-5 of polesitter Brad McAllister, of Portland Ore., into Turn One and commenced a heated battle for the lead.

Saini took over the lead from McAllister into the Festival Curves on lap two and it only took one more for Caddell to make his move around McAllister as well. On lap four, Caddell lost a spot to Combs who then moved into the lead on the following lap, but Combs' defensive line into Turn One on lap six backfired, as Saini and Caddell both made their way around Combs and into the top two spots.

Caddell didn't cut his teammate any slack, and on lap seven put his car into the lead entering Turn 10. After Combs made his way around Saini, he set his sights on Caddell and the two exchanged the lead over several laps, before Caddell took over the lead for good on lap 12. As Combs was forced to defend his position from Cole, Caddell powered away to a 2.096-second lead in one lap and would continue to open up the gap, crossing the line 6.327 seconds ahead of eventual second-place finisher Cole.

"The front three of us, me, Brad McAllister and Jason, we talked about going out there and being a train for the first couple of laps, but that obviously didn't happen," Caddell said. "Then Jesse came up there and started racing us really clean. He got pretty wide in the Festival Curves at one time and all of a sudden him and Jason starting fighting and I think there was some contact between them. But that was actually a good thing, it's what allowed me to get away from them.

"This feels great. It felt like the Runoffs out there again," the reigning SCCA Spec Miata Champion beamed. "After I broke out I just got to sit back and watch those guys fight it out back there."

After Cole slid his No. 88 DEX/Western Companies/RPM MX-5 into the second spot on lap 13 courtesy of a quick off-course by Combs, he spent the remainder of the race defending his spot from not only Combs, but Saini and Ara Malkhassian as well.

"Jesse ran me very clean and very hard," Cole said. "He did a great job and had pressure on me all the time. Ara was up there putting pressure on me, Patrick Barrett was up there. I don't know what was wrong with me, about three times I broke out and had some breathing room and about half a lap later I would have the whole field back on me. Other than I could see Andrew up there slipping away, I felt like I was leading the race. Well, I'm not sure if I was leading it or holding it up. I was getting awfully wide at the end."

Cole was relieved to see the checkered flag come out on the 31-lap, 60.977-mile race.

"The race will be more fun to remember than it was to do."

After starting eighth on the grid in his No. 7 Coolgas Ltd./Alara Racing MX-5, Combs had an bumpy, but spirited run to third.

"This was our fourth race this year and it's the only one where I've really had any contact," Combs said. "My car is pretty beat up.

"This is a tough track to pass on and with qualifying in the rain yesterday it kind of messed some of us up who aren't locals. That's why we started eighth, but I was confident that we'd move up in the dry.

In the final lap of the race, it looked like Combs might miss the podium.

"Going into the Festival Curves I tried going to the outside of Pratt and there's really only room for one car to go through there, but I think we were going to make it and then Jason I think was trying the same thing and just got in there a little late and a little hot, and next thing I know I'm turning to go left and I see Jason coming over the curb and he hit the side of me, but luckily he didn't hit me hard enough. It was close, but that's racing."

Driving the No. 80 Jason Hoover Motorsports/Hooverspeed MX-5, Matt Cross, of Folsom, Calif., worked his way up from 13th on the grid to finish fourth after a late-race battle with Saini and the No. 11 Alara Racing MX-5 of Malkhassian, of Sonoma, Calif.

In what had already been a hard-fought race for the Championship leader, Saini made one last try for a podium finish, going alongside Combs through the Festival Curves on the final lap, but the pair made contact and allowed Cross to slip by, putting Saini in fifth.

Saini continues to lead the Championship by 30 points over Malkhassian and Cross who are tied with 89 points. Malkhassian, who finished sixth, took home the Hawk Hot Lap award for setting the fastest lap of the race. His time of 1:28.213 (80.273 mph) around the 1.967-mile track reset the series race lap record at Portland International Raceway.

Bob Michaelian, Todd Buras, Patrick Barrett and Andrew Carbonell completed the top ten.

Round Five and Six of the Mazda MX-5 Cup will take place June 25-27 at Burke Lakefront Airport as part of the Grand Prix of Cleveland.

For full event coverage and results, visit www.mx-5cup.com.

Results from Sunday's 31-lap, 60.977-mile SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Four race, part of the Mazda Grand Prix of Portland Presented by Joe's at Portland International Raceway with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps and reason out (if any).

1. (2), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 31.
2. (7), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 31, -6.327.
3. (8), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 31, -7.481.
4. (13), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 31, -8.189.
5. (3), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 31, -8.576.
6. (9), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 31, -9.226.
7. (18), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 31, -15.147.
8. (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 31, -15.505.
9. (5), Patrick Barrett, Los Osos, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 31, -18.718.
10. (58), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 31, -20.780.
11. (17), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 31, -31.521.
12. (17), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 31, -37.964.
13. (15), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 31, -54.085.
14. (5), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 31, -1:02.269.
15. (21), Steve Bottom, Newport Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 31, -1:04.737.
16. (11), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 31, -1:05.236.
17. (14), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 31, -1:05.620.
18. (10), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 31, -1:07.766.
19. (23), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 31, -1:10.397.
20. (19), Donnie Barnes, Chapel Hill, N.C., Mazda MX-5, 31, -1:11.202.
21. (22), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 31, -1:11.328.
22. (16), Mike Gatto, Atlanta, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 31, -1:18.988.
23. (24), Laura Olson, Costa Mesa, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 31, -1:20.554.
24. (27), Donna Gilio, Carson City, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 30, -1 lap.
25. (1), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 30, -1 lap.
26. (26), Randy Hale III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 28, Mech.
27. (20), Forest Barber, Forth Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 11, -20 laps.

Time of race: 46 minutes, 16.455 seconds.
Average speed: 79.063 mph
Margin of victory: 6.327 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-1, #39 Brad McAllister; laps 2-2, #28 Jason Saini; laps 3-3, #30 Andrew Caddell; laps 5-5, #7 Jesse Combs; laps 6-6, #28;
laps 7-7, #30; laps 8-8, #28; laps 9-11, #7; laps 12-31, #30
Hawk Hot Lap: #11 Ara Malkhassian, 1:28.213 (80.273 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #39 Brad McAllister, 1:44.796 (67.571 mph)

SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup After Four of Eight Rounds

Ps., Driver, Car, Points (Wins)
1, Jason Saini, 119 (2)
2, Ara Malkhassian, 89 (1)
2T, Matt Cross, 89
4, Andrew Caddell, 85 (1)
5, Jesse Combs, 79
6, Pratt Cole, 75
7, Bob Michaelian, 64
7T, Barry A. Fromberg, 64
9, Andrew Carbonell, 54
10, John C. Kuitwaard, 48

Attached image: No. 30 TeamMER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5 of Andrew Caddell
Credit: Jeff Zurschmeide

Posted On 6/10/07

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Pobst Completes Historic Sweep of Three SPEED World Challenge Races at Watkins Glen

Sun, 10 Jun 2007 01:16:51 PST

Pobst Completes Historic Sweep of Three SPEED World Challenge Races at Watkins Glen
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (June 10, 2006) Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., made SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge history by winning his third race of the weekend Sunday, taking Round Five of the SCCA SPEED Touring Car Championship after winning the first half of the series' doubleheader on Saturday and Sunday morning's SCCA SPEED GT race at Watkins Glen International, part of the Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen Weekend.

Pobst's feat also set a Watkins Glen International record with three professional race wins on the same weekend.

From the pole position in his No. 73 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6, Pobst dropped to third after getting a slow launch on the standing start. James Sofronas, of Newport Beach, Calif., got the jump from his third starting spot to lead, with Jeff Altenburg, Pobst's teammate in second.

For the first 10 laps, Sofronas (No. 29 Global Motorsports Group BMW 325Ci) led a four-car train that included Altenburg, Pobst and Pierre Kleinubing's No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura TSX. Pobst pressured Altenburg, with the point leader running wide at turn 10 on the 12th lap, allowing Pobst by.

In what could prove to be a pivotal moment in the Championship, Altenburg re-entered the track with Kleinubing on the outside going into turn 11. With Altenburg on the apex curb, the two cars touched, with the then third-in-points Kleinubing spinning into the tire wall and out of contention.

Once Pobst was in second, it took only two more laps before Pobst pressured Sofronas into a bobble at turn seven, where the Mazda shot into the lead to take his second-straight SCCA SPEED Touring Car win and third series win of the weekend. Pobst won the 20-lap, 68-mile event by 1.009 seconds, averaging 96.406 mph.

"I was biding my time, waiting for an opportunity, and working with Jeff to see if we could get by James [Sofronas] and stay ahead of [Pierre] Kleinubing, who was right on us," Pobst said of the early stages of today's race. "Sofronas started to fade a bit and I started to get some heavy pressure from Pierre behind me. Then, Jeff hit a curb in turn nine and bounced it wide. I went right up under him because I wanted to get out of there. I hooked onto Sofronas and ran with him for a while and saw I had him. I just waited for my opportunity and pressured him. He went into the toe of the boot and he got loose. Then, I drove my Mazda 6 right by him and it was bye-bye after that."

Sofronas earned a bonus point for leading the most laps of the race and captured his fourth-straight Toyo Tires Cup for drivers not making their living behind the wheel of a race car, but again fell just short, earning his second runner-up finish in the last three races.

"We had a little bit of a push," Sofronas said of his car in the late stages of the race. "I was just trying to keep my tires under me. I knew where I was strong coming out of the fast sweepers. I was really strong there. So, I thought I could maintain my gap. Then, once I got the push, it induced some understeer and when I got on the throttle it snapped on me and Randy capitalized. He is obviously a good driver and I did all I could to hold him off. Then, I put my head down and tried to hold second place. It was a good finish for Tecmark and GMG. We're pretty happy for a second place finish today."

Altenburg recovered from his off course excursion and contact with Kleinubing to finish third in his No. 72 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6.

"Randy got inside me and I ran a little wide," Altenburg said of his lap 12 incident. "I felt bad for Pierre because I went off into the grass, because there is only room for one Mazda through that turn. Then, Pierre got a run on me. He hadn't completed the pass yet. So, we went into the next turn and he just came down a little too low and we made contact. I think if he had stayed out wide, he would've completed the pass and we would've made it through there. My car could grip in there pretty good, but I guess maybe he [Kleinubing] thought I was going to back out of it [the throttle] or maybe he thought he had the pass done.

"I feel terrible for him. He is a great driver and this is just a bad deal. I feel bad that I was involved in it. But, I don't feel like I was anything more than a participant."

Canadian Kuno Wittmer, who ran strong in Saturday's race before breaking an axle, earned his career-best finish in the No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura RSX of fourth. Charles Espenlaub, of Lutz, Fla., completed the top five in his No. 97 Mazdaspeed/Tindol/Oakley/Sparco Mazda 6.

Roberto Santos, of Monterrey, Mexico, made it three Tri-Point Motorsports Mazdas in the top six with his career best finish, earning the honor of Piloti Rookie of the Race in the process.

Payton Wilson, of Chantilly, Va., earned his second-consecutive B&M Shifters Holeshot Award in the No. 6 King RAT Motorsports Dodge SRT-4, advancing eight positions on the opening lap.

Charlie Putman, of Denver, Colo., was presented the Sunoco Hard Charger award for advancing 11 positions in the race.

Pobst was one point shy of a perfect weekend-with Sofronas earning the point for most laps led-but it was enough to eclipse his teammate in the point standings, 172 to 171. Sofronas is now third, with 128 points, followed by Kleinubing (117) and Espenlaub (110).

Mazda strengthened its stranglehold on the SCCA SPEED Touring Car Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER Magazine, with 45 to Acura's 22, BMW's 17 and Audi's 12.

Today's race will be broadcast June 30 on SPEED. The series next travels to the Grand Prix of Toronto, July 8.

Results from Sunday's 20-lap, 68-mile SCCA SPEED Touring Car Championship Round Five race, part of the Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen Weekend at Watkins Glen with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps, distance behind winner and reason out (if any).

1. (1), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 20.
2. (3), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 20, -1.009.
3. (2), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 20, -3.359.
4. (9), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 20, -4.368.
5. (6), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 20, -5.058.
6. (8), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey Mexico, , Mazda 6, 20, -8.951.
7. (14), Adam Pecorari(R), Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, 20, -13.830.
8. (11), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 20, -16.767.
9. (7), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 20, -25.008.
10. (17), Payton Wilson(R), Chantilly, Va., Dodge SRT-4, 20, -28.914.
11. (12), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 20, -32.062.
12. (19), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Dodge SRT-4, 20, -40.825.
13. (22), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 20, -49.135.
14. (18), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 20, -53.304.
15. (5), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 20, -1:06.841.
16. (15), Andrew Wojteczko(T), Caledon, Ontario, Lexis IS 300, 20, -1:09.164.
17. (21), Fred Pignataro(T), East Northport, N.Y., BMW 325i, 20, -1:10.162.
18. (10), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 20, -1:11.750.
19. (16), Nick Esayian, Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 20, -2:02.541.
20. (20), Phil Parlato(T), Commack, N.Y., BMW 325i, 19, -1 lap.
21. (4), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 19, -1 lap.
22. (25), Jameson Riley, Wilton, Conn., Volvo S40, 10, -10 laps.
23. (13), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 8, -12 laps.
24. (23), Jason Martinelli(R), Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 6, -14 laps.
25. (24), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 0, -20 laps.

Time of race: 42 minutes, 19.259 seconds.
Average speed: 96.406 mph
Margin of victory: 1.009 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-13, #29 James Sofronas(T); laps 14-20, #73 Randy Pobst
Fastest race lap: #95 Michael Galati, 2:05.268 (97.710 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #73 Randy Pobst, 2:02.730 (99.731 mph)
B&M Holeshot Award: #6 Payton Wilson
Sunoco Hard Charger Award: #96 Charlie Putman
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #74 Roberto Santos
Toyo Tires Cup: #29 James Sofronas

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Drivers' Championship After Five of 10 Events

Ps., Driver, Manufacturers, Points (Wins)
1, Randy Pobst, Mazda 6, 172 (2)
2, Jeff Altenburg, Mazda 6, 171 (2)
3, James Sofronas(T), BMW 325Ci, 128
4, Pierre Kleinubing, Acura TSX, 117
5, Charles Espenlaub, Mazda 6, 110
6, Chip Herr, Audi A4, 108 (1)
7, Kuno Wittmer, Acura RSX, 101
8, Peter Cunningham, Acura TSX, 98
9, Michael Galati, Mazda 6, 76
10, Brandon Davis, Acura TSX, 67

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER Magazine After Five of 10 Events

Ps., Manufacturer, Points (wins)
1, Mazda, 45 (4)
2, Acura, 22
3, BMW, 17
4, Audi, 12

Image: Randy Pobst leads the field at Watkins Glen International
Credit: Mark Weber/SCCA

Posted On 6/10/07

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Pobst Gives Porsche First SPEED GT Win of Season In Watkins Glen

Sun, 10 Jun 2007 01:08:40 PST

Pobst Gives Porsche First SPEED GT Win of Season In Watkins Glen
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (June 10, 2007) Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., benefited from his competition falling by the wayside and scored his and Porsche's first SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship race win of 2007 at Watkins Glen International, part of the Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen weekend. Lawson Aschenbach, of West Palm Beach, Fla., and Lou Gigliotti, of Dallas, completed the top three.

On the standing start, polesitter Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., moved prior to the start in his No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V, and had to report to pit lane for a stop and go, which dropped him outside of the top 20.

Second-starting Eric Curran moved to the lead in his No. 30 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette, and looked to be primed to end the bad luck streak from the last two races, in which he had two DNFs after starting the season with two wins.

A three-lap caution period to remove the disabled car of Dane Moxlow ended with a lap-six restart, which saw Pobst make a bold move in his No. 22 K-PAX Racing/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 to the inside of Aschenbach's No. 1 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V going into turn one. Aschenbach slid wide on the exit and re-entered the track into the side of Pobst's car. The two continued and Aschenbach made a stunning recovery as he ran through oil dry in his first time through the Esses.

From there, Pobst gave chase to Curran, and began to dog him within a lap, setting up what could have developed into a battle for the lead. However, Curran could not shake his bad luck and the Corvette began to misfire, allowing Pobst by on lap 11.

Pobst set the race's fast lap of 1:55.167 (106.280 mph) en route to a 1.397-second win, averaging 90.631 mph.

It was Pobst's second win on the weekend after Saturday's win in the SPEED Touring Car series. He became the fourth driver to win a race in both series on the same weekend, with it last occurring in 2003 at Infineon Raceway by Bill Auberlen. An hour later, Pobst went on to win his third race on the weekend, taking the second SPEED Touring Car race and becoming the first driver to win three series races on the same weekend.

"The start went well and I got some help from Eric Curran breaking down," Pobst said. "On the restart, I was on the inside in turn one and I knew that outside guy [Aschenbach] was going to have to deal with the oil dry that was on the track from the car that blew up. And, he whacked me a good one. But, it was a real pleasure to pull off two wins this weekend."

Defending series Champion Aschenbach recorded his third second-place finish of the season.

"He [Pobst] was just playing with me all day," Aschenbach said of trying to chase down Pobst. "I knew that once he got by me, he would be tough to catch. I tried to put some pressure on him for a little while, but then he started to pull away. We just didn't have anything for him today. But, the Cadillac was great today. I've had three seconds this year. I need a win bad."

Gigliotti, the only other driver in the field to have previous SCCA SPEED World Challenge wins at Watkins Glen, ran a steady race in his No. 28 LG Pro Long Tube Headers Chevrolet Corvette to capture his third podium finish on the season, holding off a charging Pilgrim in the closing laps.

"I don't know where he [Andy Pilgrim] came from," Gigliotti said about having to protect his podium finish. "When I saw him, I could not believe it because I knew he went in for a black flag. I could not believe that he made it all the way back. But we still had a great race. I am glad we finished third."

Pilgrim, who fell to 22nd after serving his stop-and-go penalty, benefited from the caution period, but put on a great show to battle back to finish fourth. Michael Galati moved from his ninth starting position to finish fifth in his No. 23 K-PAX/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3.

Tommy Archer (Dodge Viper), Sonny Whelen, Brian Kubinski, Tony Gaples (Chevrolet Corvette) and Tim McKenzie (Porsche 911 GT3) completed the top 10.

Aschenbach earned the B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race for his save in the oil dry on lap six.

Whelen (No. 31 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette) was presented the Toyo Tires Cup.

Kubinski (No. 12 Diamond Construction/Blackdog Racing Chevrolet Corvette) earned the Piloti Rookie of the Race.

Pilgrim maintained his lead in the SCCA SPEED GT Drivers' Championship standings, with 143 points to Pobst's 138. Aschenbach is third, with 135, followed by Galati, with 116 and Archer, with 115.

Cadillac took the point lead from Chevrolet with its second place and pole position in the SCCA SPEED GT Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER Magazine, 33 to 31. Porsche is now third, with 24, followed by Dodge, with 16.

Today's race will be broadcast June 30 at 4 p.m. on SPEED Channel.

The series next travels to the Grand Prix of Toronto, July 8. For additional series information, please visit www.world-challenge.com.

Results from Sunday's 22 lap, 74.8 mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Five race, part of the Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen Weekend at Watkins Glen International with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps, distance behind winner and reason out (if any).

1. (4), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 22.
2. (3), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 22, -1.397.
3. (6), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 22, -8.971.
4. (1), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 22, -9.557.
5. (9), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 22, -18.007.
6. (5), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 22, -26.349.
7. (10), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 22, -37.341.
8. (11), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 22, -46.000.
9. (16), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 22, -48.601.
10. (13), Tim McKenzie(R), Madison, Wis., Porsche 911 GT-3, 22, -48.925.
11. (7), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 22, -59.320.
12. (8), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 22, -1:00.006.
13. (12), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 22, -1:16.727.
14. (19), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 22, -1:22.659.
15. (17), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 22, -1:22.735.
16. (20), Lenny Diller, Garden City, N.Y., Dodge Viper, 22, -1:34.471.
17. (22), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 22, -1:43.033.
18. (18), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 22, -1:43.240.
19. (24), Michael Hartley, West Deptford, N.J., Dodge Viper, 22, -1:57.269.
20. (25), John Bourassa, Jupiter Island, Fla., Porsche 911 Turbo, 21, -1 lap.
21. (26), Adel Elsayed, Boonton Twp, N.J., Dodge Viper, 21, -1 lap.
22. (15), Jeff Altenbujrg, Ellicott City, Md., Dodge Viper, 18, Elect.
23. (2), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 17, Mech.
24. (14), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Chevrolet Corvette, 12, Mech.
25. (23), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Porsche 911, 8, Off Course.
26. (21), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 1, Fire.

Time of race: 49 minutes, 31.152 seconds.
Average speed: 90.631 mph
Margin of victory: 1.397 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-10, #30 Eric Curran; laps 11-22, #22 Randy Pobst
Fastest race lap: #22 Randy Pobst, 1:55.167 (106.280 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #8 Andy Pilgrim, 1:53.998 (107.370 mph)
Sunoco Hard Charger: #34 Tony Gaples
B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race: #1 Lawson Aschenbach
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #12 Brian Kubinski
Toyo Tires Cup: #31 Sonny Whelen

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Drivers' Championship After Five of 10 Round

Ps., Driver, Car, Points (Wins)
1, Andy Pilgrim, Cadillac CTS-V, 143
2, Randy Pobst, Porsche 911 GT-3, 138
3, Lawson Aschenbach, Cadillac CTS-V, 135
4, Michael Galati, Porsche 911 GT-3, 116
5, Tommy Archer, Dodge Viper, 115
6, Lou Gigliotti, Chevrolet Corvette, 110
7, Eric Curran, Chevrolet Corvette, 92
8, Rob Foster(T), Dodge Viper, 90
9, Doug Peterson, Chevrolet Corvette, 84
10, Jeff Courtney, Dodge Viper, 78

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER Magazine After Five of 10 Rounds

Ps., Manufacturer, Points (Wins)
1, Cadillac, 33 (1)
2, Chevrolet, 31 (2)
3, Porsche, 24 (1)
4, Dodge, 16 (1)

Attached: Image of Randy Pobst en route to his first SPEED GT win of the season Sunday at Watkins Glen International.
Copyright: Mark Weber/SCCA

Posted On 6/10/07

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Local Driver McAllister Wins Pole in the Wet at Portland

Sat, 09 Jun 2007 12:54:24 PST

Local Driver McAllister Wins Pole in the Wet at Portland
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

PORTLAND, Ore. (June 9, 2007) No stranger to a wet track at Portland International Raceway, Portland driver Brad McAllister won his first-career MX-5 Cup pole for Round Four of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup race, part of the Mazda Grand Prix of Portland Presented by Joe's. Eighteen year-old Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., completed the front row.

On a day plagued with rain, the MX-5 Cup cars faced a track littered with standing water for their 30-minute qualifying session.

McAllister jumped to the top of the times early in the session behind the wheel of his No. 39 ACE Surgical Supply/H&M Motorsports MX-5, then traded fast laps with Caddell numerous times throughout the session before setting a lap of 1:44.796 (67.571 mph) just past the halfway mark. The red flag would come out shortly after, as officials retrieved the No. 21 Hale Motorsports/Hole In the Wall Camps MX-5 of Randy Hale, from Haddam, Conn., from Turn Eight.

When the track went green again, the field had less than four minutes to improve their times around the 1.967-mile track, but no one could defeat McAllister on his home turf.

"With all the local races here in the rain I think it really helped to know the line," McAllister said. "These Kumho tires were beautiful. They felt really nice in the rain."

McAllister was confident of a strong race performance on Sunday regardless of the weather conditions.

"We were fourth fastest [in practice] and ran good in every session, so the car feels good in the dry as well as in the rain. I'm looking forward to a podium tomorrow and let's see if we can't hold out for the win. I think I'd prefer the rain, but either one is okay.

"All the family is here and we've got more crew than we know what to do with. I've got to thank Mark Jano who is a real estate agent that's been helping us out a lot. I'd also like to thank H&M Motorsports, they're part of the Herzog-Meier Mazda group, because they've been real instrumental in helping us get the car prepared."

Caddell in the No. 30 TeamMER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5 led the session several times, but with a lap of 1:45.158 (67.338 mph) he would have to settle for second. It may not have been a pole, but it was the young driver's career-best qualifying effort.

Current Championship leader Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, will start Sunday's race from third on the grid after turning a 1:45.886 (66.875 mph) in qualifying.

Driving the No. 58 BSI/Team Garcia/MOMO/Joe Gibbs MX-5, Andrew Carbonell, of Miami, Fla., earned his career-best grid position of fourth with a lap of 1:46.634 (66.406 mph). Patrick Barrett, of Los Osos, Calif., also put in his best qualifying of the year and will start his No. 29 AutismSpeaks.org/SafeRacer.com MX-5 fifth on the grid after turning a 1:47.221 (66.043 mph).

Todd Buras, Pratt Cole, Jesse Combs, Ara Malkhassian and Rick Bellew complete the top ten.

Sunday's Round Four MX-5 Cup race is scheduled to go green at 4:00 p.m. (PDT). Scattered showers are in the forecast.

For full event news from Portland including live timing and lap notes visit www.mx-5cup.com

Starting lineup for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Four race, part of the Mazda Grand Prix of Portland Presented by Joe's at Portland International Raceway, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:44.796, 67.571.
2, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 1:45.158, 67.338.
3, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:45.886, 66.875.
4, (58), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:46.634, 66.406.
5, (29), Patrick Barrett, Los Osos, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:47.221, 66.043.
6, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:47.601, 65.809.
7, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 1:48.089, 65.512.
8, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:48.089, 65.512.
9, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:49.164, 64.867.
10, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 1:49.390, 64.733.
11, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:49.413, 64.720.
12, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 1:49.761, 64.514.
13, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:49.824, 64.477.
14, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 1:51.021, 63.782.
15, (01), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:51.098, 63.738.
16, (57), Mike Gatto, Atlanta, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 1:51.113, 63.729.
17, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:51.400, 63.565.
18, (19), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:51.591, 63.456.
19, (25), Donnie Barnes, Chapel Hill, N.C., Mazda MX-5, 1:52.791, 62.781.
20, (24), Forest Barber, Forth Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:52.807, 62.772.
21, (44), Steve Bottom, Newport Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:52.918, 62.711.
22, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 1:53.264, 62.519.
23, (83), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:56.990, 60.528.
24, (08), Laura Olson, Costa Mesa, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:57.048, 60.498.
25, (5), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:57.586, 60.221.
26, (21), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:57.991, 60.014.
27, (52), Donna Gilio, Carson City, Nev., Mazda MX-5, no time.

Attached image: Local driver Brad McAllister will start the Portland MX-5 race from pole in his No. 39 ACE Surgical/H&M Motorsport Mazda MX-5.
Credit: Travis Geny

Posted On 6/9/07

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Pobst Goes Flag-To-Flag in First Half of Glen Touring Car Doubleheader

Sat, 09 Jun 2007 12:07:49 PST

Pobst Goes Flag-To-Flag in First Half of Glen Touring Car Doubleheader
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (June 9, 2007) Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., captured his first SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car win of the season Saturday as part of the Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen weekend at Watkins Glen International. Pierre Kleinubing, of Coconut Creek, Fla., and Charles Espenlaub, of Lutz, Fla., completed the top three.

Pobst led every tour in the 20-lap, 68-mile event in his No. 73 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6 from the pole, but it looked like he would have multiple challenges early.

On the standing start, front row mate James Sofronas got his No. 29 Global Motorsports Group/Tecmark BMW 325Ci alongside with Pobst through turn one and the flat-out Esses. As the pack made its way to the inner loop chicane, Sofronas had company, with Kleinubing and Kuno Wittmer's Acuras tucked in behind. However, Pobst had the inside line going into the right hand entry of the chicane and took the point.

From there, Pobst never lost the lead, holding serve on the lap 16 restart and taking the 1.149-second win, averaging 89.913 mph.

"This weekend is a helluva comeback for me personally because I made some mistakes in my choices of setup at Lime Rock," Pobst said of his 11th place finish two weeks ago. "Craig Nagler took us back to the fundamentals. We straightened the car out and boy, it worked out great here at Watkins Glen."

After Pobst established the lead in the Inner Loop on the first lap, Sofronas slipped off course before getting through the bus stop complex and allowed Kleinubing (No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura TSX), Espenlaub (No. 97 Mazdaspeed/Tindol/Oakley/Sparco Mazda 6) and Wittmer (No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura RSX) past.

Kleinubing watched Pobst slowly pull away to a nearly 3.5-second advantage before knocking it down to just under two before a caution period to move the disabled cars of Wittmer and Payton Wilson. On the restart, Kleinubing stayed in contact as the two re-set their personal fast laps, but he was unable to make a bid for the lead.

"That's how it was all day, I just played follow the leader," Kleinubing said. "I was never able to get close enough to even get a draft from him. I would get closer in the chicane, but that was it. I didn't have anything for him [Pobst] today."

Espenlaub returned to the podium for the first time since September 2006 at Mosport.

"Actually, our race went really well," Espenlaub said. "At Tindol Motorsports, we've been chasing the right setup trying to keep up with the blue boys [Tri-Point Motorsport]. We made the car better for qualifying this morning. Then, we made another big change and obviously the car got much better in the race. I had a great start following these guys [Pobst and Kleinubing] through the Esses. It was fun watching these guys battle."

While the top three remained unchanged in the final five laps after the restart, fourth through 15th became a dogfight. Jason Martinelli went from ninth to fourth on the restart, a move that would later draw a stop-and-go penalty for advancing prior to the green flag. Michael Galati, who started eighth in his No. 95 Mazda North America/Tindol Mazda 6, moved clear of Martinelli on lap 16 to hold fourth
Jeff Altenburg, who started ninth in his No. 72 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6, moved to fifth on lap 17. Sofronas, Peter Cunningham (Acura TSX), James Clay (BMW 325i), Chip Herr (Audi A4), Stan Wilson (Dodge SRT-4), Rob Holland (Dodge SRT-4) and Roberto Santos (Mazda 6) battled behind.

After Santos spun and collected Clay in the outer loop, the order settled, with Sofronas, Cunningham, Wilson, Holland and Herr completing the top 10.

Sofronas captured his third-straight Toyo Tires Cup with his sixth place finish.

Wilson captured two honors in his No. 92 Sorted Performance Dodge SRT-4-the Piloti Rookie of the Race award and the Sunoco Hard Charger award for advancing 11 positions, from 19th to eighth.

Wilson earned the B&M Holeshot Award in his No. 6 King Rat Motorsports Dodge SRT-4, advancing four positions on the opening lap.

Altenburg maintained his drivers' championship point lead, but Pobst reduced it to seven, 138 to 132. Kleinubing is third, with 110, followed by Herr and Sofronas, tied at 91.

Mazda increased its point lead in the Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER Magazine. It now has 35 points to Acura's 19, Audi's 12 and BMW's 10.

Today's race will air on SPEED Saturday, June 30 at 2 p.m. (EDT).

The SCCA Pro Racing SPEED Touring Car Championship will complete its Watkins Glen doubleheader Sunday at 11:45 a.m. (EDT).

Results from Saturday's 20-lap, 68-mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round Four race, part of the Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen at Watkins Glen International with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps, distance behind winner and reason out (if any).

1. (1), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 20.
2. (3), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 20, -1.149.
3. (6), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 20, -4.029.
4. (8), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 20, -4.710.
5. (9), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 20, -8.593.
6. (2), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 20, -10.010.
7. (4), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 20, -10.887.
8. (19), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 20, -21.891
. 9. (18), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Dodge SRT-4, 20, -23.200.
10. (16), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 20, -23.556.
11. (12), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 20, -23.819.
12. (14), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 20, -23.905.
13. (20), Nick Esayian, Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 20, -24.972.
14. (21), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 20, -25.303.
15. (23), Fred Pignataro(T), East Northport, N.Y., BMW 325i, 20, -26.784.
16. (11), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey Mexico, , Mazda 6, 20, -30.143.
17. (24), Phil Parlato(T), Commack, N.Y., BMW 325i, 20, -31.404.
18. (10), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 20, -40.192.
19. (17), Jason Martinelli(R), Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 20, -50.267.
20. (5), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 11, Mech.
21. (15), Payton Wilson(R), Chantilly, Va., Dodge SRT-4, 11, Mech.
22. (7), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 9, Susp.
23. (13), Adam Pecorari(R), Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, 7, Mech.
24. (22), Andrew Wojteczko(T), Caledon, Ontario, Lexis IS 300, 1, Mech.
25. (25), Jameson Riley, Wilton, Conn., Volvo S40, 0, DNS.

Time of race: 45 minutes, 22.606 seconds.
Average speed: 89.913 mph
Margin of victory: 1.149 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-20, #73 Randy Pobst
Fastest race lap: #73 Randy Pobst, 2:05.026 (97.899 mph), Record
Fastest qualifier: #73 Randy Pobst, 2:05.459 (97.561 mph), Record
Sunoco Hard Charger: #92 Stan Wilson advanced 11 positions
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #92 Stan Wilson
B&M Holeshot Award: #6 Payton Wilson
Toyo Tires Cup: #29 James Sofronas

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED Touring Car Drivers Championship After Four of 10 Rounds
Ps., Driver, Car, Points (Wins)

1, Jeff Altenburg, Mazda 6, 138 (2)
2, Randy Pobst, Mazda 6, 131 (1)
3, Pierre Kleinubing, Acura TSX, 110
4, James Sofronas(T), BMW 325Ci, 91
5, Chip Herr, Audi A4, 91 (1)
6, Charles Espenlaub, Mazda 6, 87
7, Peter Cunningham, Acura TSX, 86
8, Kuno Wittmer, Acura RSX, 75
9, Michael Galati, Mazda 6, 58
10, Seth Thomas(T), BMW 325i, 54

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED Touring Car Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER After Four of 10 Rounds
Ps., Manufacturer, Points (wins)
1, Mazda, 35 (3)
2, Acura, 19
3, Audi, 12 (1)
4, BMW, 10

Attached: Image of the start of the SCCA SPEED Touring Car race Saturday at Watkins Glen International. Randy Pobst (72) holds the inside line going into turn one. (Weber/SCCA Image)

Posted On 6/9/07

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Pobst Goes Two-For-Two in SPEED Touring Car Poles at the Glen

Sat, 09 Jun 2007 12:01:56 PST

Pobst Goes Two-For-Two in SPEED Touring Car Poles at the Glen
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (June 9, 2007) Less than15 hours after taking his first SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car pole position of the season at Watkins Glen International, Randy Pobst earned another one-taking the pole for the back half of a doubleheader, part of the Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen weekend. Teammate Jeff Altenburg, of Ellicott City, Md., will start Sunday's race in second.

Driving the No. 73 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6, Pobst turned a blistering lap of 2:02.730 (99.731 mph) around the 3.4-mile circuit-nearly three seconds faster than his pole time for Saturday afternoon's race set Friday evening. While other drivers also went faster than his pole time from Friday, Pobst was a full 1.392 seconds clear of the field.

"This reminds me of when we were in Washington, D.C. with 3R Racing in the SPEED GT car when we had one of those magical laps there and we were a second clear of the field," Pobst said. "I had a really good gap then and that's what we had today.

"The Mazda 6 has just been really good since we got here and I'm loving Watkins Glen. I got too aggressive with changes at Lime Rock and I lost my fundamental basis. We went back to the Utah setup and it has just been working since day one.

"When the air temperatures drop, the engines make a lot more power. It's 30 degrees cooler than it was yesterday and that makes a big, big difference."

The current point leader, Altenburg rebounded from a ninth-place qualifying effort for Saturday's Round Four race with a second-place effort for Sunday's Round Five race with a fastest time of 2:04.122 (98.612 mph) in his No. 72 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6.

James Sofronas will start third in his No. 29 Global Motorsports Group/Tecmark BMW 325Ci with a time of 2:04.256 (98.506 mph). RealTime Racing teammates Pierre Kleinubing (2:04.366) and Peter Cunningham (2:04.371) completed the top five in their Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura TSXs.

Sunday's Round Five race makes its standing start at 11:45 a.m. The race will be broadcast on SPEED June 30 at 3 p.m. (EDT).

To follow the race via live timing and scoring and lap notes, please visit www.world-challenge.com.

Starting lineup for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship, part of the Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen Weekend at Watkins Glen International with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 2:02.730, 99.731.
2, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 2:04.122, 98.612.
3, (29), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 2:04.256, 98.506.
4, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 2:04.366, 98.419.
5, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 2:04.371, 98.415.
6, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 2:04.373, 98.413.
7, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 2:04.454, 98.349.
8, (74), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey Mexico, , Mazda 6, 2:04.456, 98.348.
9, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 2:04.472, 98.335.
10, (38), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 2:04.478, 98.330.
11, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 2:04.716, 98.143.
12, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 2:05.077, 97.859.
13, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 2:05.101, 97.841.
14, (19), Adam Pecorari(R), Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, 2:05.278, 97.702.
15, (36), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 2:05.526, 97.509.
16, (64), Andrew Wojteczko(T), Caledon, Ontario, Lexis IS 300, 2:06.046, 97.107.
17, (34), Nick Esayian, Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 2:06.157, 97.022.
18, (6), Payton Wilson(R), Chantilly, Va., Dodge SRT-4, 2:06.548, 96.722.
19, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 2:06.565, 96.709.
20, (11), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Dodge SRT-4, 2:07.433, 96.050.
21, (8), Jason Martinelli(R), Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 2:07.438, 96.046.
22, (16), Phil Parlato(T), Commack, N.Y., BMW 325i, 2:08.683, 95.117.
23, (60), Fred Pignataro(T), East Northport, N.Y., BMW 325i, 2:09.145, 94.777.
24, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 2:15.794, 90.136.
25, (31), Jameson Riley, Wilton, Conn., Volvo S40, no time.

Attached: Image of Randy Pobst during qualifying for Sunday's SPEED Touring Car race at Watkins Glen International. Mark Weber/SCCA Image.

Posted On 6/9/07

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Pilgrim Grabs SPEED GT Pole In Watkins Glen

Sat, 09 Jun 2007 11:54:01 PST

Pilgrim Grabs SPEED GT Pole In Watkins Glen
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (June 9, 2007) Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., won the pole in the final moments of today's qualifying session for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Five race, part of the Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen Weekend at Watkins Glen International. Eric Curran, of East Hampton, Mass., will start on the outside of the front row.

Driving the No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V, Pilgrim dropped nearly a second off his previous fastest time in the session with just moments remaining to trump his teammate, Lawson Aschenbach, for the pole. The lap of 1:53.998 (107.370 mph) eclipsed the former track record of 2:05.026 set by Terry Borcheller in the last series appearance here in 1998, by just over 11 seconds.

"Everyone was going very quickly, the tires were superb and the track temperature was perfect-there was no sun," Pilgrim said. "We had to compromise on the setup. The car was pushing. We've had a push since we got here, but this was the best the car's been and I just had to go out and do zero mistakes on the lap."

Pilgrim's lapped jumped over Aschenbach's 1:54.649 (106.761 mph), but he also inadvertently helped Curran split the two Cadillacs, as Curran put his No. 30 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette on Pilgrim's back bumper for the lap.

"Eric [Curran] got out of the car and he said 'I saw a 54.0 on the dash and I thought I had it until my crew said Andy went 53.9,'" Pilgrim said. "Eric said he learned something by following me so I expect him to be quick in the race."

Curran's fast lap of 1:54.095 (107.279 mph) was just 0.097-second short of the pole.

The pole is just the third for Pilgrim in SCCA SPEED World Challenge competition, but Pilgrim is beginning to find a groove, coming off a win at the series' most recent round at Lowe's Motor Speedway.

Randy Pobst will start fourth, alongside Aschenbach, after turning a fast time of 1:54.939 (106.491 mph). Pobst topped the charts in his No. 22 K-PAX Racing Porsche 911 GT3 at the session's mid-point when a red flag came out to move the disabled car of James Sofronas. Following the stoppage, Pobst did not improve on his time.

Tommy Archer completed the top five in his No. 5 MOPAR/Autohaus Motorsports Dodge Viper with a time of 1:55.650 (105.846 mph).

Lou Gigliotti (Chevrolet Corvette), Sofronas (Porsche 911 GT3), Doug Peterson (Chevrolet Corvette), Michael Galati (Porsche 911 GT3) and Sonny Whelen (Chevrolet Corvette) completed the top 10.

Sunday's race will make its standing start at 9:30 a.m. (EDT) and will be broadcast June 30 on SPEED Channel.

To follow the race live online via timing and scoring and live lap notes, please visit www.world-challenge.com.

Starting lineup for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Five race, part of the Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen Weekend at Watkins Glen International, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:53.998, 107.370.
2, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:54.095, 107.279.
3, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:54.649, 106.760.
4, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:54.939, 106.491.
5, (5), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 1:55.640, 105.845.
6, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 1:55.718, 105.774.
7, (14), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:55.783, 105.715.
8, (87), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:56.229, 105.309.
9, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:56.326, 105.221.
10, (31), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:56.328, 105.219.
11, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:56.719, 104.867.
12, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 1:56.885, 104.718.
13, (66), Tim McKenzie(R), Madison, Wis., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:57.171, 104.462.
14, (90), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:57.368, 104.287.
15, (13), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Dodge Viper, 1:57.409, 104.251.
16, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:58.173, 103.577.
17, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 1:59.126, 102.748.
18, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 1:59.507, 102.420.
19, (17), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:59.626, 102.318.
20, (51), Lenny Diller, Garden City, N.Y., Dodge Viper, 2:00.292, 101.752.
21, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 2:00.442, 101.625.
22, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 2:00.724, 101.388.
23, (24), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Porsche 911, 2:01.843, 100.457.
24, (53), Michael Hartley, West Deptford, N.J., Dodge Viper, 2:02.239, 100.131.
25, (76), John Bourassa, Jupiter Island, Fla., Porsche 911 Turbo, 2:03.421, 99.172.
26, (02), Adel Elsayed, Boonton Twp, N.J., Dodge Viper, 2:05.601, 97.451.

Attached: Andy Pilgrim at Watkins Glen during Saturday's qualifying session. Mark Weber/SCCA Image

Posted On 6/9/07

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Combs Tops Morning MX-5 Practice in Portland

Fri, 08 Jun 2007 11:46:29 PST

Combs Tops Morning MX-5 Practice in Portland
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

PORTLAND, Ore. (June 8, 2007) - Jesse Combs, of Houston, Texas, paced morning practice at a cold Portland International Raceway for Round Four of the SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup, part of the Mazda Grand Prix of Portland Present by Joe's. Ara Malkhassina, of Sonoma, Calif., and Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, were second and third quick, respectively.

Under an overcast sky with temperatures in the low 50's, Combs had no problem finding the grip and speed in his No. 7 Coolgas Ltd./Alara Racing Mazda MX-5 to clock a time of 1:27.626 (80.811 mph) around the 1.9670-mile permanent road course. Combs' time was 0.264-second quicker than the current series qualifying lap record at Portland International Raceway.

"The car was great," Combs said. "We came out here and tested last week and then we put the Kumhos on this weekend and immediately you can tell there's a lot more grip. The MX-5 is a great car and if anything, what helped me the most was enlarging the Coolgas Ltd. penguin on the hood of my car. I think that's where the time was at."

Driving the No. 11 Alara Racing MX-5, Malkhassian also entered a fast time under the current series qualifying record. A lap of 1:27.805 (80.646 mph) put Malkhassian second in the morning session.

Current point leader Saini finished the session third on the time sheets with a fast lap of 1:27.872 (80.585 mph) in his No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/SafeRacer.com MX-5.

Barry Fromberg turned a time 1:28.103 (80.374 mph) in his No. 43 Alara Racing/FBG Racing Mazda MX-5 to end the session fourth quick. Brad McAllister completed the top five in his No. 39 ACE Surgical Supply/H&M Motorsports MX-5 with a time of 1:28.108 (80.369 mph).

Matt Cross, Pratt Cole, Andrew Caddell, Bob Michaelian, and Patrick Barrett completed the top ten.

There are two more MX-5 Cup practice sessions on Friday afternoon at 3:20 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. (PDT). Qualifying for Round Four of the MX-5 Cup is scheduled for Saturday, June 9 at 3:15 p.m. (PDT).

For more information including live timing and lap notes visit www.mx-5cup.com.

Results from the first practice session for Sunday's Round Four SCCA Pro Racing Mazda MX-5 Cup race part of the Mazda Grand Prix of Portland Presented by Joe's at Portland International Raceway, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:27.626, 80.811.
2, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:27.805, 80.646.
3, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:27.872, 80.585.
4, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:28.103, 80.374.
5, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.108, 80.369.
6, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.258, 80.233.
7, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 1:28.356, 80.144.
8, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.509, 80.005.
9, (19), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.995, 79.568.
10, (29), Patrick Barrett, Los Osos, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.218, 79.369.
11, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.447, 79.166.
12, (52), Donna Gilio, Carson City, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.691, 78.951.
13, (24), Forest Barber, Forth Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:29.815, 78.842. 14, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 1:29.834, 78.825.
15, (25), Donnie Barnes, Chapel Hill, N.C., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.899, 78.768.
16, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.116, 78.578.
17, (83), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.207, 78.499.
18, (44), Steve Bottom, Newport Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.930, 77.875.
19, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:31.219, 77.628.
20, (01), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.456, 77.427.
21, (5), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:32.036, 76.939.
22, (21), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:32.193, 76.808.
23, (08), Laura Olson, Costa Mesa, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:32.743, 76.353.
24, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 1:34.807, 74.690.
25, (32), Jeff Moore, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, no time.
26, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, no time.
27, (57), Mike Gatto, Atlanta, Ga., Mazda MX-5, no time.
28, (58), Steven Bernheim, Encino, Calif., Mazda MX-5, no time.
29, (59), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, no time.

Attached image: No. 7 Coolgas Ltd./Alara Racing Mazda MX-5 of Jesse Combs.
Credit: Jeff Zurschmeide

Posted On 6/8/07

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Pobst Rebounds at Watkins Glen To Take First SPEED Touring Pole of 2007

Fri, 08 Jun 2007 11:44:20 PST

Pobst Rebounds at Watkins Glen To Take First SPEED Touring Pole of 2007
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (June 8, 2007) Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., rebounded from a disappointing Lime Rock weekend over Memorial Day Weekend to take the pole position for Saturday's SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Round Four race, part of the Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen Weekend at Watkins Glen International. James Sofronas, of Newport Beach, Calif., will start second in the first race of a doubleheader weekend.

Driving the No. 73 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6, Pobst ran a fastest time of 2:05.459 (97.561 mph) around the 3.4-mile, 11-turn road course-breaking the old track record, set in the series' last appearance in 1998, by nearly seven seconds.

"It's good to be back [on the pole] for Tri-Point Motorsports and my car chief," Pobst said. "It's really satisfying to get my Mazda 6 up to speed. I love Watkins Glen and we flew. In fact, I am staying with my old friend Peter Schwartzott. Peter and I won four 24-hour races in a row here at Watkins Glen. And, every time I come out of the toe of the boot, memories just fill my head. I put together a good lap with a lot of help from [teammate] Jeff Altenburg. He towed me two-thirds the way down the track. I passed him coming out of the toe of the boot and just rammed it home. I really got to thank my personal sponsors Team Janika Racing, Weathertech, and APR Tuning for supporting me."

Pobst finished second to Altenburg in the opening two rounds before a frustrating weekend at Lime Rock, where he qualified 12th and finished 11th.

A driver on a roll is Sofronas. After finishing a career-best second at Lime Rock, Sofronas qualified his No. 29 Global Motorsports Group/Techmark BMW 325Ci second-equaling his best effort-with a fast time of 2:05.970 (97.166 mph).

Pierre Kleinubing qualified his No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura TSX third, with a best time of 2:06.130 (97.042 mph), followed by teammates Peter Cunningham (No. 42 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura TSX) and Kuno Wittmer (No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura RSX.

Charles Espenlaub (Mazda 6), Seth Thomas (BMW 325i), Michael Galati (Mazda 6), Altenburg (Mazda 6) and James Clay (BMW 325i) completed the top 10. Altenburg reportedly brushed the wall exiting turn 11 during the session.

Saturday's race is scheduled to make its standing start at 6:30 p.m. (EDT) on Saturday. Sunday will feature Round Five of the series.

Both weekend races will be broadcast Saturday, June 30 on SPEED.

Starting lineup for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round Four race, part of the Sahlen's Six Hours of the Glen Weekend at Watkins Glen International, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 2:05.459, 97.561.
2, (29), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 2:05.970, 97.166.
3, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 2:06.130, 97.042.
4, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 2:06.344, 96.878.
5, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 2:06.645, 96.648.
6, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 2:06.712, 96.597.
7, (38), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 2:06.728, 96.584.
8, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 2:06.928, 96.432.
9, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 2:06.984, 96.390.
10, (36), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 2:07.060, 96.332.
11, (74), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey, Mexico, , Mazda 6, 2:07.316, 96.138.
12, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 2:07.371, 96.097.
13, (19), Adam Pecorari(R), Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, 2:07.535, 95.973.
14, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 2:07.632, 95.900.
15, (6), Payton Wilson(R), Chantilly, Va., Dodge SRT-4, 2:07.729, 95.827.
16, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 2:07.867, 95.724.
17, (8), Jason Martinelli(R), Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 2:07.922, 95.683.
18, (11), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Dodge SRT-4, 2:08.212, 95.466.
19, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 2:08.434, 95.301.
20, (34), Nick Esayian, Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 2:08.998, 94.885.
21, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 2:09.032, 94.860.
22, (64), Andrew Wojteczko (T), Caledon, Ontario, Lexus IS300, 2:09.317, 94.651.
23, (60), Fred Pignataro(T), East Northport, N.Y., BMW 325i, 2:09.734, 94.346.
24, (16), Phil Parlato(T), Commack, N.Y., BMW 325i, 2:09.954, 94.187.
25, (31), Jameson Riley, Wilton, Conn., Volvo S40, no time.

Attached: Randy Pobst leads James Clay Friday at Watkins Glen International (Mark Weber Image)

Posted On 6/8/07

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Combs Fastest MX5 in Portland Practice

Fri, 08 Jun 2007 11:40:11 PST

Combs Fastest MX5 in Portland Practice
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

PORTLAND, Ore. (June 8, 2007) - Jesse Combs, of Houston, Texas, set the fastest practice time of the day at Portland International Raceway for Round Four of the SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup, part of the Mazda Grand Prix of Portland Present by Joe's. Ara Malkhassina, of Sonoma, Calif., and Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, were second and third quick, respectively.

Under overcast skies in the unseasonably cold morning session, Combs had no problem finding grip on the 1.967-mile permanent road course. Driving the No. 7 Coolgas Ltd./Alara Racing Mazda MX-5, Combs' time of 1:27.626 (80.811 mph) could not be topped in the remaining two practice sessions despite a dramatic improvement in the weather throughout the day.

"The car was great," Combs said. "We came out here and tested last week and then we put the Kumhos on this weekend and immediately you can tell there's a lot more grip. The MX-5 is a great car."

Malkhassian also set his quickest time in the morning session, turning a 1:27.805 (80.646 mph) in his No. 11 Alara Racing MX-5, and ended the day second on the time sheets.

Current point leader Saini finished the day third fastest. Behind the wheel of the No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/SafeRacer.com MX-5, Saini's fast time of 1:27.872 (80.585 mph) came in the morning session as well.

All of the top three drivers' fast laps were under the current series qualifying record.

Barry Fromberg turned a time 1:28.103 (80.374 mph) in his No. 43 Alara Racing/FBG Racing Mazda MX-5 to end the day fourth quick. Local driver Brad McAllister completed the top five in his No. 39 ACE Surgical Supply/H&M Motorsports MX-5 with a time of 1:28.108 (80.369 mph).

Matt Cross, Pratt Cole, Andrew Caddell, Todd Buras and Bob Michaelian completed the top ten. Buras and Michaelian were the only two drivers in the top ten who set their fastest practice times later in the day.

Qualifying for Round Four of the MX-5 Cup is scheduled for Saturday, June 9 at 3:15 p.m. (PDT).

For more information including live timing and lap notes visit www.mx-5cup.com.

Combined practice results for Sunday's Round Four SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup race, part of the Mazda Grand Prix of Portland Presented by Joe's at Portland International Raceway, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:27.626, 80.811.
2, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:27.805, 80.646.
3, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:27.872, 80.585.
4, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:28.103, 80.374.
5, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.108, 80.369.
6, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.258, 80.233.
7, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 1:28.356, 80.144.
8, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.443, 80.065.
9, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.816, 79.728.
10, (19), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.995, 79.568.
11, (29), Patrick Barrett, Los Osos, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.028, 79.539.
12, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.447, 79.166.
13, (58), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.646, 78.990.
14, (52), Donna Gilio, Carson City, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.691, 78.951.
15, (83), Kim Ouye, Monterey, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.783, 78.870.
16, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobile, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.806, 78.850.
17, (24), Forest Barber, Forth Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:29.815, 78.842.
18, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 1:29.834, 78.825.
19, (25), Donnie Barnes, Chapel Hill, N.C., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.899, 78.768.
20, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:30.028, 78.655.
21, (5), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.175, 78.527.
22, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.341, 78.383.
23, (21), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.367, 78.360.
24, (01), Bill Sweedler, Westport, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.481, 78.261.
25, (44), Steve Bottom, Newport Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.930, 77.875.
26, (08), Laura Olson, Costa Mesa, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.188, 77.655.
27, (57), Mike Gatto, Atlanta, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.485, 77.402.

Attached image: The No. 7 Coolgas Ltd./Alara Racing MX-5 of Jesse Combs was the car to beat in practice at Portland.
Credit: Jeff Zurschmeide

Posted On 6/8/07

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Huntsville Solo National Tour Debut a Success

Fri, 08 Jun 2007 11:31:56 PST

Huntsville Solo National Tour Debut a Success
By Erin Cechal, SCCA

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (June 8, 2007) - Mother Nature smiled on the entrants for the inaugural Huntsville National Tour as rain clouds threatened the Milton Frank Stadium parking lot both days of competition, but never delivered as the weather stayed dry throughout the event.

First time Nationals course designer Charles Wright put together two very technical courses which looked wide open yet demanded precise vehicle positioning in order to maintain speed on course. Competitors who strayed off line by even a few inches found themselves hopelessly out of position down course.

Andy Hollis, of Austin, Texas, clinched the win in his 1992 Mazda Miata over 14 other competitors in a large STS2 class. Second-place competitor Rick Cone, of Lawrenceville, Ga., who finished day one 0.310-second behind Hollis, coned his final run on day two, to finish 1.160 seconds back. Darrin DiSimo, of Coral Springs, Fla., who recently came to the class after years of successful competition in C Stock, finished in third place, 0.546-second back, driving a 1989 Honda Civic CRX Si.

Mike King, of Jacksonville, Fla., in a Bridgestone-equipped 1989 Honda Civic Si smoked a 3.540 second win in the Street Touring X class with a time that would have produced a trophy in any of the Street Prepared classes. Bryce and Gary Merideth, of Ocoee, Fla., finished second and third in a co-driven 1997 BMW 328is. Gary Merideth ended up 0.507-second out of second.

X Prepared has come alive this year with an injection of new talent and equipment. Long time E Stock competitor and 2006 National trophy winner Jesse Naughton, of Atlanta, Ga., in a 2001 Toyota MR2 Spyder held off a final run challenge by second-place competitor David Newman, of Allentown, Pa., in his 1970 Porsche 911, to win by 0.148 seconds.

Competition was intense in Super Stock as Brian Connors, of Philadelphia, Pa., driving a 2005 Lotus Elise extended a 0.131-second day one lead in the 13-car class to win by 0.549-second over Albert Chan, of Howell, Mich., in a 2003 Corvette Z06. Dennis Bay, of Livonia, Mich., also in a 2003 Corvette, was close on his heals in third, just 0.127-second behind. Steve Waters, of Smyrna, Ga., in yet another Corvette finished out the fourth and final trophy position only 0.123-second back.

Carter Thompson, of Murfreesboro, Tenn., took his second National Tour win of the season in B Stock driving a 2004 Mazda RX-8. Thompson defeated the Walnut Ridge Tour winner Asher Wunderl, of North Little Rock, Ark., in another RX-8 by 0.568-second. Falkville, Ala. native, and local favorite, Michael Cavanaugh took the third trophy in a 2007 Nissan 350Z, 0.947-second behind Wunderl.

On Saturday the Pace Hot Pursuit Award for the most consistant run times of the day went to Scott Bourne, of Georgetown, Ky., in H Stock. Darrin DiSimo, of Coral Springs, Fla., in STS2 was the Sunday recipient. Both Bourne and DiSimo are now entered to win a Pace Hot Pursuit trailer.

The next stop on the Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Tour is Moore Airfield in Massachutes for the Devens National Tour, June 9-10.

For full results from The Huntsville National Tour visit www.scca.com

Attached image: Course designer Charles Wright took second in CSP.
Credit: Dennis Sparks

Posted On 6/8/07

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Formula TR: Two Races, Two classes, Four Different Winners

Wed, 06 Jun 2007 05:01:59 PST

Formula TR: Two Races, Two classes, Four Different Winners
By Mike Mills, ADZEN

Fontana, CA - California Speedways infield road course was the site for rounds 7 and 8 of the 20 rounds of the 2007 Formula TR PRO Championship Series where there was a different winner in each class in each race, four different winners.

Round 7 found John Knudsen, #7 Knudsen Racing, on the poll for the two liter cars and Ryan Booth, #4 Knudsen Racing, on the 1600 poll. With a picture perfect split start the 2000's only position change in the top four was when Luis Martinez Jr., #3 Position One Motorsports, retired early with a mechanical failure.

The 1600's continuing battle between Ryan Booth and Sergio Pena, #58 JP Motorsports, waged on in this round of the series with Sergio prevailing at the checkered flag. Kristen Braun, #70 Kimball Williams Racing, and Kerstin Smutny, #35 Paladin Motorsports, raced each other hard again with Braun finishing in third. Josh Goshen, #83 Goshen Racing, finished in fifth and Felice Snider, #85 JP Motorsports, suffering an early mechanical failure.

In Round 8 qualifying was a repeat of the previous day with John Knudsen taking the 2 liter poll and Ryan Booth again on the 1600 poll. The race became very interesting when Knudsen spun on the third lap and fell to the back of the entire field. Knudsen began his charge back to the front immediately. His progress was hindered when Pena and Booth who were dicing for the lead of the 1600's had contact that resulted in both cars unable to move and bringing out the pace car for several laps. When the green flag came out again Pena had retired while Booth was able to continue.

By now Knudsen had made his way through the 1600 field and was half way through the 2 liter cars and Booth was mounting his charge to regain position too. Booth attempted a pass on Kerstin Smutny at the exit of turn 11 when his left rear tire contacted the right front of Kerstin causing her to veer off the racing surface where the left front tire dug into dirt and sent the car into a triple roll. Kerstin was uninjured; the Formula Renault 2000 and 1600 provide an incredible survival cell to protect the driver in such incidents and the series requires all drivers use a head and neck restraint system to provide the driver with maximum protection. The race finished under yellow behind the pace car.

After the stewards review of the race events the 2 liter race results stood with Bill Goshen, #82 Goshen Racing, in first place, Liam Kenny, #95 Liam Kenny Racing, in second and Christian Franck, #16 Knudsen Racing, in third. Felice Snider, #85 JP Motorsports, was first in the 1600's, Joshua Goshen, #83 Goshen Racing, scored second and Kerstin Smutny finished third after Ryan Booth was penalized by the stewards for avoidable contact.

Two races, two classes, four different winners, John Knudsen, Sergio Pena, Bill Goshen and Felice Snider in a weekend that started slowly and ended in a crescendo of action.

The first half of the series will be completed next weekend, June 9-10, at Buttonwillow Raceway with rounds 9 and 10. The season championships are close and with double points races at the end of the season anyone could prevail.

About Formula TR
Formula TR (Tatuus Renault) provides a development series for young drivers progressing from karting into professional formula car racing as early as age 14. The series was established in 2002 and features both 1600cc and 2000cc carbon fiber open wheel chassis built by Tatuus and powered by Renault. The series consists of 20 races conducted over 10 weekends at tracks throughout the western US. Visit www.FormulaTR.com for more information.

About Adzen
Adzen is a motor sport marketing and management company which provides marketing support for drivers, series, and events as well as website design and update services. Learn more about Adzen at www.Adzen.biz.

Posted On 6/6/07

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Date Set for Solo Nationals Test and Tune

Mon, 04 Jun 2007 04:56:42 PST

Date Set for Solo Nationals Test and Tune
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (June 4, 2007) The National Test N Tune for the 2007 Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Championships has been set for Sunday, September 23, with registration opening on July 2.

The event registration fee is $25 for five runs. Soloists can register online at www.scca.com or download the form and send it to the SCCA national office via fax or mail. Those who do not have internet access may contact the SCCA Solo department at 1-800-770-2055 to have a registration form sent to them. Registering over the phone is an additional option, but incurs an additional $50 processing fee. Once a competitor is registered there are no cancellations or refunds. Registration is capped at 600 participants.

Check-in will be open on site from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with runs taking place from 8:00 am to 4:00 p.m. At check-in, competitors will receive five tickets to be used at anytime throughout the day on either the east or west course. The courses used for the National Test N Tune will be those used for the Tire Rack SCCA ProSolo Finale with slight modifications. Run times will not be posted, but competitors will receive a time slip at the end of each run.

National Test N Tune participants are required to work one hour of the event. Work assignments will be made at check-in when tickets are collected.

Tech will have limited morning hours at the National Test N Tune. There is a single tech for the ProSolo Finale, National Test N Tune and Solo National Championships.

The Tire Rack Solo National Championships will take place September 25-28th. For more information visit the Solo National Championships event page.

Attached image SCCA

Posted On 6/4/07

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My Experience Driving A 1968 McLaren M6B

Sat, 02 Jun 2007 11:01:59 PST

My Experience Driving A 1968 McLaren M6B
By Gary Sheehan

Professional racer Gary Sheehan gets a once-in-a-lifetime chance to pilot a vintage Can Am McLaren M6B around world-famous Infineon Raceway. Written in his own words and accompanied by some incredible photos and video courtesy of Marshall Pruett, this is a story not to be missed by gearheads everywhere. JustRacing.com thanks Gary and Marshall for this fantastic contribution.

My friend Bob Lee invited me up to Infineon Raceway on Wednesday, May 30th, to do some testing/setup work on his 1968 McLaren M6B. This was the car driven by ex-Formula 1 driver (and race winner) Jo Bonnier. The car has in the neighborhood of 600hp and weighs in around 1,700lbs. It's an aluminum monocoque, which is very different from modern racecars. Think of it as sheet aluminum origami secured with rivets. The only "safety cage" to speak of is a not very confidence inspiring main hoop, braced only with a stringer from the center top of the hoop back to the head on the engine, which is secured with removable pins.

Let me honest by saying that I currently feel like someone has beaten the crap out of me with a baseball bat. My lats, shoulders, pecs and upper arms are sore from wrestling with the car. I have a bruise/abrasion the size of a Coke can on my right buttock from sitting directly on the aluminum floor. Don't ask me how, I still don't know. Oh, and despite the earplugs, my ears are still ringing. All in all, I couldn't be happier and I wouldn't change a thing. Every muscle ache brings a happy memory back from yesterday.

The day started off pretty chilly when the guys (Tony, Tim and John) rolled car out of the garage. They told me to climb in, fire it up and drive it into the hot pits, since we'd set the cockpit up for me the previous evening. The guys had already set up our pit earlier that morning, so things progressed very quickly once I arrived and after a very brief coaching session on the gearbox, I was out of the pits and on track in a blur.

My first session out on Infineon's windy and hilly track was absolute rubbish. It's like I had never shifted a manual transmission before! I was grinding every gear, fighting with it the entire time. I was so focused on shifting the beast that barely any of my attention was focused outside the car. When I would get it in gear I'd put the throttle down and be pinned back against my makeshift seat (seatback insert, foam rubber pad and a rolled up towel!). The sound was awesome and the acceleration was so quick that I barely had any time to enjoy it before I had to dick with that damned shifter again.

I think they left me out there for 8-10 laps getting familiar with things. When they called me in I felt like absolute crap. How could I not shift a race car?! Tony explained that everyone has trouble adjusting to the shifter with the gearbox's huge gears and dogs, and it's tough to program the brain to slow down the movements while still being firm with the lever, ensuring that the shifter moves ALL the way across the gate. Then people started asking me about the balance of the car and what to change and the only thing I could tell everyone was that I hadn't pushed the car at ALL, that I had to get myself comfortable with the shifter and after that, get comfortable with how the car reacts to my inputs. I knew I was no where near any limit of the car and still had to acclimate to such a foreign machine. Apparently my fastest laptime that first session was in the 1:43's.

The next session out, Tony suggested I try clutchless upshifting. Well, I've got lots of experience with that from the formula cars I'd driven. I rolled out with a tiny bit of confidence that quickly grew once I started the clutchless upshifts. Now I could accelerate through the gears with very little effort and really feel how the car pulled. MAN! What a feeling. The car just pulled and pulled! The sound was just beautiful. Through this next session I was still having trouble downshifting until I just gave up on rowing down through the gears and went right for the gear I wanted. So for turns 7 and 11, this meant downshifting from 5th right to 2nd. It got so that by the time I came in from my second stint I was pretty comfortable with the gearbox and just starting to get some feedback on the balance.

When I came in from the 2nd session I was able to tell Tony that I was starting to detect mid-corner understeer. Not enough to piss me off yet, as I still wasn't really pushing the car yet, but it was definitely there. I also noticed a huge amount of inside wheelspin over turn 2 and 3b, despite the limited slip diff. I had to be so delicate with the throttle over these crests and just wait, wait, wait until I started to unwind before giving it any throttle. Tony looked around the rear of the car and noticed there was way too much rebound damping in the car, so he softened the rear dampers. He also removed the stiffer rear bar and put the softer bar on, in an effort to get the inside tire down. I'd dropped my laptimes to the high 1:39's and the guys from the shop seemed pleased with that.

I went out for my third session with a lot more confidence in my ability to shift the car and was ready to start exploring the limits of the car. I started pushing the car through 3a and 3b and it didn't really do anything scary. I started picking up understeer through 5, 6, 8a and 8b and turn 10. One thing that was really noticeable is that the wheelspin over the crests of 2 and 3b were much reduced. It was still there a little, but mostly gone. Finally, I started to feel some type of rhythm with this car and I felt like I could drive it.

It's probably worth saying that this is a rare, historic and very expensive race car. One that's probably not very suitable for crashing. Financially or physically. Considering that Bob was going to be racing it at the Wine Country Historic races over the weekend, I tried to take good care of the car. So I took it relatively easy in the high risk corners, like 1, 9 and 10. Still, the car loaded up the right side tires pretty hard through turn 1 and man, did that steering get heavy! It took real effort to get the car to the left to set up for turn 2. Coming through Turn 5 was a real workout as well, and there was more than one time I came out of 5 breathing hard and catching my breath. Same thing through the esses and through 10.

I was definitely feeling lots of understeer by this time and I felt it was slowing me down. Now that I had some confidence in myself and the car I felt I could quickly get a sense of what it was doing and give some feedback. I came in and explained what I was feeling. Tony suggested some additional rear ride height and three turns later I was back out. It felt a little better over the next couple of laps, so I came in and we tried a little more of that. And out I went again.

I was noticing that I'd have lots of understeer with even throttle steady state, but when I began to feed in the throttle, I could dial out some steering. So if I got to throttle earlier and harder, I could unwind due to the additional slip on the rear tires. I told this to Tony when I came back in. He didn't like that I couldn't put the power down very well coming out of the tight corners, so he'd decided to go in a different direction while we ate lunch.

The guys from the shop seemed pretty excited about the car's pace, since the car was fairly new to them (this particular car, not McLaren M6's by any means) and I was an unknown quantity to them when the day started. By this time I was in the mid 1:38's and Tony mentioned that that was the fastest he's seen one of these cars go around Infineon with the skinnier treaded tires that were on the car. The fact that the tires were two years old also helped to make me look good.

So, while we ate lunch, Tony, Tim and John lowered the rear ride height again and cranked in quite a bit of front rebound in an effort to keep the nose pinned a bit more in the corners and prevent the front float he was observing on the straights and the nose high attitude coming out of the corners. We planned only two more quick sessions so that Bob could get some time in the car as well as some coaching with me.

The car felt much better with the changes Tony made. Much more driveable and even a bit tossable. Now I was able to roll onto the throttle coming out of the carousel and carry a little bit of oversteer out to the exit curbing. The car was much more confidence inspiring after that change. I came in after only 5 laps and told Tony how it felt. He wanted to try one more change, stiffening the rear bar to counteract some of the mid-corner understeer I was still feeling. Zip, out of the pits again for another 4 laps. That change also improved the car and I really started to feel like the car was flowing with me. I was able to carry nice drifts out of the corners under hard acceleration and the understeer was definitely manageable. In fact, I think the car could go back to the bigger rear bar and be better still, but we ran out of time for me and it was time to set up the cockpit for Bob to get it.

Tony was kicking himself because he made a timing mistake just before what was my fastest lap. He got a happy finger and clicked the stopwatch a bit early, just before he could see the car, about 3 car lengths. My next lap was a 1: 38.18, including the additional time for the jumpy trigger finger. He was bummed because he was sure that lap would have been a high 1:37. He really wanted to see it happen.

By the end of the day I was over the moon. Tony and I had improved the car set up quite a bit over where it had started and saw even more room for improvement. I was confident that the car would do mid 1:37s just the way it was if I really attacked turn 1 and 9. With new slicks instead of the old treaded tires, Tony is confident we would have been turning 1:34's. And dammit, I JUST SPENT THE DAY DRIVING A FRIGGING CAN-AM CAR!!!!! The very same Can-Am car that ex-Formula 1 winning driver Jo Bonnier had driven. Just awesome!

Some things that stick out in my mind from the day...

Having to lift my elbow up and over the shifter linkage to get my hand on the shifter to shift, then lifting my elbow back up and over the linkage to get my hand back to the wheel and my elbow tucked back in to steer. Every shift.
Seeing the rear arm of the lower control arm where it comes into the cockpit, passes below my right leg and bolts to the chassis between my knees, about an inch off the floor.
Forgetting how fast the car actually was going and being reminded as I just blew past some fairly impressive race cars like they were standing still.
Looking UP into those rearview mirrors on those crazy long legs to see what's behind me.
Leaning my head to the left as I entered turn 5 because the right fender completely blocked my view of the apex curbing. It didn't help.
Drifting the car out of turn 11 towards the wall with people standing right there at the wall watching.
Feeling the car literally LEAP out of turn 7 and bang through 2nd, 3rd and into 4th into the esses, with the car giving a little twitch over those first two apex curbings that you straighten out before the esses really begin.
The sound of the engine coming out of 11 as I upshifted through the gears without the clutch. Just awesome.

It was one of the most fun days on the track in my entire racing career. It is something I will definitely have to do again. So my aching shoulders keep telling me this afternoon...

(edit - upon further investigation of my ass and my racing suit, it turns out that I have a nice fuel chemical burn on my right butt cheek. I must've sat down in a puddle of race gas. Now I know what an intense fuel burn feels like. And I had thought my ass was just falling asleep. Also, Marshall went back through the last laps of my fastest session and put timestamps on the laps during video editing. According to the timestamps, my fastest lap was a 1: 37.2. Tony will be thrilled!)

Gary
Sheehan Motor Racing
www.garysheehan.com

Watch some of Gary's fantastic driving here:

Small video (50 MB)

Large video (165MB 640x480)

Engine Cover Cam video (146 MB 640x480)

Photo and videos courtesy of Marshall Pruett.

Posted On 6/2/07

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Charlotte and Lime Rock SPEED World Challenge Races Air This Weekend

Fri, 01 Jun 2007 04:37:14 PST

Charlotte and Lime Rock SPEED World Challenge Races Air This Weekend
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (June 1, 2007) Two rounds of SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge competition from two completely different tracks are set to air on SPEED this weekend.

It all starts Saturday, June 2 at 3:00 p.m. (EDT) with SCCA SPEED Touring Car at Lime Rock Park. Mazda seeks to make it three race wins in-a-row, but with the Acura of Pierre Kleinubing on pole and the all-wheel drive Audi of Chip Herr sitting in front of Jeff Altenburg on the grid, it's going to be an uphill battle. If you miss the initial broadcast, Round Three of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship will re-air Sunday, June 3 at 3:00 a.m. (EDT).

Beginning at 4:00 p.m. (EDT) on Saturday, June 2, is the much anticipated SCCA SPEED GT race from Lowe's Motor Speedway. A standing start under the lights, Kasey Kahne in a Dodge Viper and the "wheel of inversion," are just three reasons to watch the first broadcast and the two rebroadcasts on Sunday, June 3 at 4:00 a.m. (EDT) and Wednesday, June 6 at 2:00 p.m. (EDT).

Both the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT and Touring Cars will be back in action again June 8-10 at Watkins Glen International in New York.

For all the latest news and information on SCCA SPEED World Challenge visit www.world-challenge.com.

Posted On 6/1/07

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BimmerWorld: Lime Rock Leaves Clay and Thomas Aiming for Better Fortunes

Thu, 31 May 2007 04:33:04 PST

BimmerWorld: Lime Rock Leaves Clay and Thomas Aiming for Better Fortunes
By BimmerWorld Media Services

Dublin, VA (5/30/07) -- High hopes were dashed for the BimmerWorld SPEED World Challenge Touring Car team as over aggressive driving by others and transmission maladies put and end to a promising Memorial Day race in Connecticut.

Seth Thomas carried the team's good fortunes up to the race, placing the BimmerWorld BMW E90 in 6th place. "Overall the weekend really was a success as the E90 was once again fast at a track that requires a good handling car. Unfortunately we didn't have the results we were looking for and deserved for the weekend. All weekend long we were in the top-10 fastest cars for the sessions. During qualifying I gave myself a big gap to the car in front of me only to catch him in my qualifying run halfway through the lap. I still was able to qualify the car 6th. This wasn't exactly where I want to qualify but it was up towards the front and I knew I had a lot better car than most of the guys in front of me. "

Sadly, his continuing strong efforts in the SPEED TC series were undone by a rival on lap one. Uninvited contact in the race would ruin his start from the third row of the grid. "Once the race started I did improve a spot or two before the caution came out for the first time; at the restart I had a great jump on the blue car in front of me and was racing door to door with him into turns one and two. Only when we were coming out of turn two, he decided the best way he could keep me from passing was to run me off the track. I saw it coming and tried to back off to avoid the contact but he still hit me while I was in the dirt which resulted in a flat right front tire. The crew did an awesome job of getting me back into the action but I was a lap down at that point. The rest of the race was running laps and seeing how many of the leaders I could catch up to. "

Quick repairs by the BimmerWorld crew and an indomitable spirit as shown by Thomas netted a 'best we could hope for' 16th place. Seth has been bumped down to 9th place in the driver's championship, but expects the superior handling of his BMW E90 to help him to claw back more points and a better finish.

"Our testing at Watkins Glen testing earlier in the year delivered some really good results. I'm excited about the race there as I think this is where we can really let the E90 show its speed."

BimmerWorld owner and driver James Clay had a weekend to forget. "As much as luck wasn't there for us, I still really like this track. I missed the first of two sessions due to an electrical issue and I was behind the eight-ball all weekend. When I did get out for qualifying, I tried to find a spot at the back of the field to qualify and was also held up in the critical first laps. Both Seth and I let our tires cool and tried to go out to put down something faster. I was able to, but it was nowhere near enough and Seth stuck with one of his earlier laps. If not for electrical gremlins, I'm sure Seth and I would have worked in tandem towards the front."

Missed sessions and an unrepresentative 17th starting spot didn't diminish Clay's resolve come race time. "The race was going great-I'd moved up from 17th to 12th in the first bunch of laps before a double yellow. Seth had his flat tire issue, but got a new tire and came back out only losing one lap. For a track like Lime Rock where we lap complete a lap in less than 60 seconds, I thought it was awesome work by our crew to get Seth back out so quickly. Our guys are the best."

With the electrical issues sorted out, a mechanical issue would bring a premature end to Clay's day. "Together Seth and I we were picking up positions until my car locked into 4th gear. After falling back due to my car's limited speed on the front straight while stuck in 4th, I was out of the points and not able to really race. My only option was to retire the car."

With the maladies and misfortunes of Lime Rock behind the BimmerWorld team, the collective focus of the drivers and crew move to the next rounds, a SPEED TC double-header at Watkins Glen, June 8th-10th.

"We are constantly working to drive the effort forward this season. We'll have more development work implemented before The 'Glen. We still have our 3rd car, a new and un-raced BMW E90 identical to the cars Seth and I drive, and that will likely be with us at Watkins. It is a little late to start a points race for someone in that car, so at this point in the season, we're going to use the 3rd seat to find a teammate for 2008. I have a couple of guys we are talking to, one of which BMW fans would look forward to having back in the saddle."

After ten days of solid racing-two weekends ago at Miller Motorsports Park in Utah, and event that saw most of the team and both drivers afflicted with a nasty flu, and the tough times at Lime Rock, the BimmerWorld team is ready for some clear skies and clear track at Watkins Glen. "I'm looking forward to a great weekend, including some podium finishes and a Friday at the local dirt track!" said Clay.

Better fortunes are indeed on the horizon.

Courtesy: BimmerWorld Media Services
mediaservices@bimmerworld.com

More information about the team, cars, and drivers can be found at www.bimmerworldracing.com
Information on BimmerWorld's Customer Car Services can be found at www.bimmerworld.com
Details on PowerFlex Suspension Bushings can be found at www.powerflexusa.com

The BimmerWorld team is proudly supported by: Silkolene, Ground Control, BBS, Moton, Bimmerforums.com, Performance Friction, Diffsonline, JB Racing, and Rogue Engineering

Posted On 5/31/07

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Atlanta ProSolo To Use Doublecross Format

Wed, 30 May 2007 10:25:47 PST

Atlanta ProSolo To Use Doublecross Format
By Erin Cechal, SCCA

ATLANTA, Ga. (May 30, 2007) The 2007 TireRack SCCA ProSolo season continues to explore new ground with the adoption of the Doublecross Challenge format at the Atlanta ProSolo.

A hybrid between the traditional side-by-side ProSolo format and the recently introduced single-course format, the Atlanta Region's Doublecross Challenge will pit soloists head-to-head on a single course. Competitors do not cross paths on the course since they start from opposite points and use separate, adjacent straights. Beginning with a Christmas tree start, whichever car returns to their finish line first, wins. The Doublecross course design enables drivers and spectators to immediately know who won the contest.

Competitors will make qualifying runs on Saturday, receiving three runs on the right side and three runs on the left side. The best time from each side will be averaged to determine a class rank. The top time in each class will be used for dial-ins in the elimination rounds, which will take place on Sunday.

Last year's inaugural Atlanta Doublecross event received rave reviews from SCCA Soloists and competitors are already responding positively to the use of the new format on the ProSolo calendar.

The Atlanta Region has launched a website dedicated to the event (http://www.soloatlanta.com/DoubleX/index.htm) complete with video, discussion board and online registration that will open for the first 100 entries on June 4th, followed by an additional 100 entries on June 5th.

The Atlanta Round of The Tire Rack SCCA ProSolo National Series is scheduled for June 30th.

Attached image: 2006 DoubleCross winner Stephen Rankins.
Credit: jtimageworks.com

Posted On 5/30/07

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Formula TR - Rounds 7 & 8 - June 2-3

Mon, 28 May 2007 09:29:26 PST

Formula TR - Rounds 7 & 8 - June 2-3
By Mike Mills, ADZEN

After a long four week break the action resumes this coming weekend for the Formula TR Pro Series on the infield course at California Speedway. The series joins the ASA Speed Trucks and the Touring Car Racing Association for the weekend.

The Formula TR PRO series consists of twenty races conducted over 10 race weekends for two classes of Formula Renaults, the 1600cc and the 2000cc.

With less than half of the races complete the two Series Championships are very tight and virtually every participant still has chance to do very well by the end of the season. In the 1600 Series Championship Sergio Pena holds an eighteen point lead over Ryan Booth who is charging hard and won round 6. The 2000 Series Championship has series regular John Knudsen with a 19 point lead over Luis Martinez Jr.

Saturdays Round 7 is scheduled to start at 2:35 PM and Sundays Round 8 is scheduled for 2:20 PM. The gates at California Speedway open at 8:00 AM each day. There is a $10 gate fee each day.

About Formula TR
Formula TR (Tatuus Renault) provides a development series for young drivers progressing from karting into professional formula car racing as early as age 14. The series was established in 2002 and features both 1600cc and 2000cc carbon fiber open wheel chassis built by Tatuus and powered by Renault. The series consists of 20 races conducted over 10 weekends at tracks throughout the western US. Visit www.FormulaTR.com for more information.

About Adzen
Adzen is a motor sport marketing and management company which provides marketing support for drivers, series, and events as well as website design and update services. Learn more about Adzen at www.Adzen.biz.

Posted On 5/28/07

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Herr Victorious in SPEED Touring Car at Lime Rock Park

Mon, 28 May 2007 09:22:19 PST

Herr Victorious in SPEED Touring Car at Lime Rock Park
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

LAKEVILLE, Conn. (May 28, 2007) Chip Herr, of Lititz, Pa., collected his first win of the 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship season in Round Three at Lime Rock Park, part of the SPEED Touring Car Classic. James Sofronas, of Newport Beach, Calif., and Jeff Altenburg, of Ellicott City, Md. completed the podium.

As the start lights went out, Herr got a great launch in his No. 17 STaSIS/Clear Capital Audi A4 and beat polesitter Pierre Kleinubing into Turn One to take the lead. Kleinubing slotted his No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura TSX in behind Herr, filling his mirrors for four laps, before a mistake by Herr on lap five allowed Kleinubing by and back into the lead.

"I came into Turn Six and there was a car in the wall," Herr said. "I saw the marks and thought the accident happened at the turn-in. I turned in a little bit early and hit grass and dirt and got into a four-wheel slide and had to jump on the brakes. He just went right inside of me on the downhill. I almost put it in the wall. I had to back out of it and he didn't. He knows what to do, that's why he's good."

Shortly after Kleinubing regained the lead, a full course yellow came out when the No. 11 3R-Racing Dodge SRT-4 of Robb Holland and the No. 96 Tindol Motorsports/Pesco Inc. Mazda 6 of Charlie Putman came together in West Bend. Both drivers walked away uninjured.

On the lap 10 restart, it was Kleinubing with the great launch, going unchallenged in Turn One and slowly pulling out a lead over Herr, which reached 2.514 seconds by lap 16. Herr would not let Kleinubing get much farther however and trumped Kleinubing's fast race lap with one of his own as he closed the gap to the leader. On lap 26 however, Herr shot by a slowing Kleinubing on the front stretch. As Herr inherited a 3.207-second lead over Sofronas, Kleinubing headed to the pits.

"I said 'thank you' on the front straight," Herr commented

After a look under the hood, Kleinubing rejoined the field and finished 19th, the crew having cured the defending SCCA SPEED Touring Ca Champion's running problem.

From there it was smooth sailing for Herr, who took his fourth career-win by 3.211 seconds over Sofronas in the 44-lap, 67.32-mile race. Herr also set the fastest lap of the race, a 58.646 (93.919 mph) on the 1.53-mile road course.

"It feels great," Herr said. "I love Lime Rock. Every time I've come here, I've done well. This is a momentum course that takes a lot of guts and you have to know your car. STaSIS has really worked with me to get the car right and with a new teammate, we've been able to share data between the three of us.

"Pierre had a strong car and he actually started pulling away from me. I didn't know if I should try to burn the car up and track him down or risk having [Sofronas] catch me. I was going to be happy with a podium, but then Pierre had his problem and came back to me."

After picking off current point leader Altenburg immediately on the start, Sofronas played a calm and consistent race in his No. 29 Global Motorsports Group BMW 325Ci to equal his career-best finish of second, which last occurred at Road America in 2005. The finish also earned Sofronas his second straight Toyo Cup award.

"I really wanted to try to get a win for [Tecmark team owner] Walter [Swick], but second is obviously the next best thing," Sofronas said. "On the start, I got a heck of a launch and Chip closed the door and I had to lift or else I would have plowed him. He made a nice move.

"My car was loose in the beginning and it was a little hairy the first five laps, but Walter set the car up to be good over a long run. I was able to cut a couple of quick laps to try to chase Chip down, but it wasn't enough to get up to him. All the while, I had Jeff behind me, so I tried to click off my laps, hoping Chip would make a mistake, but he didn't."

It was an even finish for Altenburg, starting third and finishing third, but the current point leader had a close call with the No. 38 BimmerWorld BMW 325i of Seth Thomas on the restart. Thomas had the jump on Altenburg going into Turn One and tried the outside line on the No. 72 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6. The pair made slight contact before Thomas went off course in the Esses with a flat tire.

"On the restart, Seth Thomas got a great run on me and we went side-by-side through Turn One," Altenburg said. "The second part of Big Bend tightens up. He was on the outside, maybe half a car back and we made a little contact. I was worried my day was over, but it turned out it might have been the end of his."

The remainder of Altenburg's race was much calmer and the podium finish helped extend his lead in the Championship to 26 over teammate Randy Pobst, who finished 11th. With the win, Herr lies in third, 14 points behind Pobst.

"When Pierre fell back, that took a little bit of my aggression away. I don't know that I had anything for James-probably not."

Adam Pecorari, of Aspon, Pa., put two Audi's in the top five by wheeling his No. 19 STaSIS/Centrec Parts Audi A4 to a fourth place finish, a career-best for the SCCA SPEED Touring Car newcomer who also collected the Piloti Rookie of the Race Award.

After a long battle with the No. 97 Mazdaspeed/Tindol/Oakley/Sparco Mazda 6 of Charles Espenlaub, Peter Cunningham, of Grafton, Wis., captured fifth in his No. 42 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura TSX on the final lap when the Espenlaub ran wide exiting the Esses.

Espenlaub returned to the track in time to finish sixth, ahead of Kuno Wittmer (Acura RSX), Ian Baas (Audi A4), Michael Galati (Mazda 6), and Jason Martinelli (BMW 325Ci) who completed the top ten.

Stan Wilson, of Mount Joliet, Tenn., finished 13th in the No. 92 Sorted Performance Dodge SRT-4, collecting both the Sunoco Hard Charger and B&M Shifters Holeshot Award for advancing 10 positions in the race, five of which came on the start.

Mazda continues to lead the Manufacturer's Championship by 23 points over Acura and Audi, who are now tied for second. BMW is fourth, with nine points.

The SCCA SPEED Touring Car race at Lime Rock Park will air on SPEED Saturday, June 2nd at 3:00 p.m. (EDT).

Round Four and Five of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship will take place at Watkins Glen International, June 9-10.

For all SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge news and results visit www.world-challenge.com

Results from Monday's 44-lap 67.32-mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round Three race at Lime Rock Park with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps, distance behind winner and reason out (if any).

1. (2), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 44.
2. (4), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 44, -3.211.
3. (3), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 44, -4.483.
4. (9), Adam Pecorari(R), Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, 44, -5.478.
5. (8), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 44, -6.136.
6. (7), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 44, -6.727.
7. (13), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 44, -8.654.
8. (11), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 44, -13.971.
9. (14), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 44, -16.629.
10. (10), Jason Martinelli, Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 44, -23.985.
11. (12), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 44, -34.431.
12. (16), Nick Esayian, Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 44, -35.105.
13. (22), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 44, -56.451.
14. (5), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 43, Crash.
15. (25), Jameson Riley, Wilton, Conn., Volvo S40, 43, -1 lap.
16. (6), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 43, -1 lap.
17. (21), Fred Pignataro(T), East Northport, N.Y., BMW 325i, 43, -1 lap.
18. (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 42, -2 laps.
19. (24), Hal Brown(R), Blacksburg, Va., Dodge SRT-4, 42, -2 laps.
20. (15), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey Mexico, , Mazda 6, 39, Crash.
21. (23), Jim Osborn(T), Ooltewah, N.J., Volkswagen Jetta TDI, 39, -5 laps.
22. (17), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 25, Mech.
23. (20), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 2, Crash.
24. (19), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Dodge SRT-4, 2, Mech.
DQ. (18), Phil Parlato(T), Commack, N.Y., BMW 325i, 44, DSQ-Tech.

Time of race: 48 minutes, 44.684 seconds.
Average speed: 82.864 mph
Margin of victory: 3.211 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-3, #17 Chip Herr; laps 4-24, #1 Pierre Kleinubing; laps 25-44, #17 Chip Herr
Fastest race lap: #17 Chip Herr, 58.646 (93.919 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #1 Pierre Kleinubing, 58.153 (94.715 mph)
Sunoco Hard Charger: #92 Stan Wilson
B&M Shifters Holeshot Award: #92 Stan Wilson
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #18 Adam Pecorari
Toyo Tires Cup Award: #29 James Sofronas

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Standings
Pos., Driver, Car, Points (Wins)
1, Jeff Altenburg, Mazda 6, 115 (2)
2, Randy Pobst, Mazda 6, 89
3, Chip Herr, Audi A4, 75 (1)
4, Pierre Kleinubing, Acura TSX, 74
5, Kuno Wittmer, Acura RSX, 68
6, James Sofronas (T), BMW 325Ci, 67
7, Peter Cunningham, Acura TSX, 65
8, Charles Espenlaub, Mazda 6, 58
9, Seth Thomas (T), BMW 325i, 53
10, Nick Esayian, Acura TSX, 39

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED Touring Car Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER
Pos., Manufacturer, Points (Wins)
1, Mazda, 25 (2)
2, Audi, 12 (1)
2, Acura, 12
3, BMW, 9

Attached image: No. 17 STaSIS/Clear Capital Audi A4 of Chip Herr.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 5/28/07

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BSI Racing: Continues their Top-Ten Finishing Streak at Lime Rock Park

Sun, 27 May 2007 02:26:40 PST

BSI Racing: Continues their Top-Ten Finishing Streak at Lime Rock Park
By Lauren Liebowitz, BSI Racing

Lakeville, Connecticut (May 27, 2007) -- BSI Racing and Team Garcia continued their top-ten finishing streak at Lime Rock Park this Saturday in the KONI Challenge ST race. Teammates Todd Buras and Carlos Garcia finished 9th in the Joe Gibbs/MOMO Mazda MX-5 race car. Justin Hall and Magnus Karlsson finished just outside of a top-ten with a 14th place finish in the No. 58 Joe Gibbs/MOMO/JustRacing.com Mazda MX-5. Last weekend the team pulled in two top-ten finishes at the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Hall and Karlsson finished 5th in the No.58 MX-5 and teammates Buras and Garcia finished 7th in the No. 56 Mazda.

The fifth race of the season started off wonderfully for the No. 56 MX-5. Garcia was passing his competitors by catching them at turn one. He started the race in 13th place and got as high as 4th place during his stint. "It was so much fun out there. I was catching all the cars on turn one. The brakes on these cars are amazing," said Garcia. Both of the Mazda MX-5's had excellent handling for the short track's turns. Karlsson used his brakes to avoid a major crash coming down from the last hill before the straight away. A competitor's car crashed spilling oil on the track. The team radioed a warning to Karlsson but it was too late, and the No. 58 car was spinning. Karlsson kept his cool and saved the car from crashing into anything. However it did go off track and collected enough dirt to through off the car's balance.

Karlsson came into the pits for a tire change on the track's first yellow and was racing without losing anytime after his spin out. "I saw a car ahead of me turn sideways and I knew there was no way of avoiding the oil," said Karlsson, "this was my first spin out at Lime Rock." Spirits were still high after the incident and co-driver, Hall jumped into the No. 58. Garcia was still on track when Hall started racing. The team's pit strategy for the No. 56 car was to pit in during a yellow caution flag, but no caution came out during the pit window. Garcia had to pit in under a green flag and Buras raced the No. 56 for the one hour remaining in the race.

After the driver and tire change in the No. 56, Buras was not able beat the pace car out of the pits and had to wait as the pit lane exit closed. Not feeling one bit discouraged, Buras started his stint off in 15th place and continuously passed his competitors. During a majority of Buras' stint, Buras and Hall were racing together. However Hall had to make one last pit in for a splash of fuel but was able to finish in 14th. Buras had two laps left in the race, and it looked as if he would finish 10th, but at the last minute Buras clicked in a 9th place finish.

"There is no doubt that these cars could have finished on the pole," said BSI owner, Stu Brumer. "We have a great set of drivers and the cars keep on improving with our adjustments. It won't be long till we start seeing the orange Mazda's leading these KONI races," said Brumer. Brumer's confidence is helping to fuel to team's momentum as they prepare for the sixth race of the KONI Challenge circuit at Mosport. After the back to back race weekends, the team will appreciate their next few weekends free until they hit the track once again on June 17.

BSI Racing appreciates support from MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development, KONI, Joe Gibbs Racing Oil, MOMO, SPEEDCOM Communications, BBS, Creative Motorsports Solutions, JustRacing.com and Sun Belt Performance Engines.

BSI Racing offers race car preparation, trackside support, fabrication, and parts for the Mazda MX-5. The race team will be campaigning Mazda MX-5 cars in the KONI Challenge Series and participating in the 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup.

For information on MX-5 rental and ownership programs, visit www.bsiracing.com
For information on Team Garcia visit: www.teamgarciaracing.com

Posted On 5/27/07

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Kleinubing Puts Acura on SPEED Touring Car Pole at Lime Rock Park

Sat, 26 May 2007 07:00:27 PST

Kleinubing Puts Acura on SPEED Touring Car Pole at Lime Rock Park
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

LAKEVILLE, Conn. (May 26, 2007) Pierre Kleinubing, of Coconut Creek, Fla., collected his first SCCA Pro Racing SPEED Touring Car pole of the season for Monday's Round Three race at Lime Rock Park. Chip Herr, of Lititz, Pa., will start outside the front row.

Driving the No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura TSX, the defending series Champion broke the Mazda qualifying streak with a time of 58.153 (94.715 mph) around the 1.53-mile track. The pole is the second for Kleinubing at Lime Rock Park and his record 31st career pole.

"I felt like [the TriPoint Mazdas] were my teammates today," Kleinubing said of his lap. "You can try to plan something for qualifying, but it never works. But that's what they did for me. Jeff [Altenburg] moved over after the uphill and then it was Randy [Pobst] right ahead of me. I caught him up a little bit in West Bend, the Downhill and the front straightaway. I was just watching my dash, with my splits getting better and better as I'm drafting them. That was my lap right there."

Kleinubing brushed off any worries about starting alongside the all-wheel drive Audi A4 of Herr.

"I'll be on the inside so he needs to be pretty far clear of me to get the advantage. I think we'll be all right. We race really well and I think my car will be really good on a long run."

Herr put in his best qualifying effort of the season. The No. 17 STaSIS/Clear Capital Audi A4 will start Monday's race on the outside the first row after putting in a time of 58.392 (94.328 mph).

After pacing both practice session at Lime Rock Park, Jeff Altenburg, of Ellicott City, Md., lost over 0.1-second in qualifying to put his No. 72 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6 third on the grid with a time of 58.427 (94.271 mph). Altenburg had won both previous poles and races in 2007.

The No. 29 Global Motorsports Group BMW 325Ci of James Sofronas, from Newport Beach, Calif., clocked a fast time of 58.488 (94.173 mph), which was good enough for fourth on the grid and made him the highest qualifying BMW in the field.

Brandon Davis, of Denver, Colo., completed the top five with a time of 58.575 (94.033 mph) in his No. 43 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura TSX.

Seth Thomas (BMW 325) will start sixth, followed by Charles Espenalub (Mazda 6), Peter Cunningham (Acura TSX) and Adam Pecorari (Audi A4). Jason Martinelli (BMW 325Ci) equaled his career-best qualifying effort, which also occurred at Lime Rock Park in 2005, and will start 10th.

Monday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED Touring Car Championship Round Three race will go green at 4:55 p.m. (EDT).

For event news, living timing and lap notes, log onto www.world-challenge.com.

Starting lineup for Monday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round Three race at Lime Rock Park, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time and speed in miles per hour.

1, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, :58.153, 94.715.
2, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, :58.392, 94.328.
3, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, :58.427, 94.271.
4, (29), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, :58.488, 94.173.
5, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, :58.575, 94.033.
6, (38), Seth Thomas(T), Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, :58.639, 93.930.
7, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, :58.639, 93.930.
8, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, :58.668, 93.884.
9, (19), Adam Pecorari(R), Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, :58.772, 93.718.
10, (8), Jason Martinelli, Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, :58.891, 93.528.
11, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, :58.897, 93.519.
12, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, :58.904, 93.508.
13, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, :58.908, 93.501.
14, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, :58.912, 93.495.
15, (74), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey Mexico, , Mazda 6, :58.992, 93.368.
16, (34), Nick Esayian, Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, :59.126, 93.157.
17, (36), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, :59.216, 93.015.
18, (16), Phil Parlato(T), Commack, N.Y., BMW 325i, :59.352, 92.802.
19, (11), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Dodge SRT-4, :59.629, 92.371.
20, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, :59.873, 91.994.
21, (31), Jameson Riley, Wilton, Conn., Volvo S40, 1:00.084, 91.671.
22, (60), Fred Pignataro(T), East Northport, N.Y., BMW 325i, 1:00.424, 91.155.
23, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 1:00.552, 90.963.
24, (24), Jim Osborn(T), Ooltewah, N.J., Volkswagen Jetta TDI, 1:02.580, 88.015.
25, (4), Hal Brown(R), Blacksburg, Va., Dodge SRT-4, 1:03.205, 87.145.

Attached image: The No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura TSX of Pierre Kleinubing.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 5/26/07

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SPEED Touring Car: BimmerWorld Lime Rock Preview

Sat, 26 May 2007 02:55:28 PST

SPEED Touring Car: BimmerWorld Lime Rock Preview
By BimmerWorld Media Services

Blacksburg, VA (May 26, 2007) -- Coming off a strong team effort at Miller Motorsports Park in Utah last weekend, the BimmerWorld team of James Clay and Seth Thomas has more top 10 and top 5 aspirations firmly in sight. Both Clay and Thomas fought though a virus at Miller on their way to 9th and 5th place; the incredible BimmerWorld crew also suffered from the same virus, made worse by the high desert heat. With the major performance leap in the team's BMW E90's having sown itself in top qualifying pace and strong race performances, expectations for Clay and Thomas to carry their Utah success in the next round this weekend at Lime Rock Park in Connecticut are high.

Lime Rock, while not always the site of positive results for the BimmerWorld team in the past, is a track well suited for the hard work and chassis developments the drivers and crew have poured into the E90's.

Team owner Clay looks forward to the event. "I like the track...when it doesn't rain. That place is always wet and we're always trying to stay dry! Since it's typically a little bit cold for this race, that also means visibility is minimal; Lime Rock was where I learned to use the "wipin' stick" for the fog on the inside of the windshield. Assuming it stays dry, I like our chances there. I think the E90s should do well; a lot of the work we did over the winter was to get more compliance out of the suspension and certainly Lime Rock is a test of that. Now if we can keep everyone healthy, it will be a great weekend!"

Seth Thomas, currently 5th in points, is aiming for his 3rd consecutive start inside the top four at a track that's bitten him more than once in the past. "I haven't had the best of luck at Lime Rock. My rookie year (2004) I got bumped off the track by Memo Gidley trying to be a hero, and in 2005 I was bumped off the track into the woods by another driver trying to be a hero out of the Uphill. It's been a tough track for me. On a good note I have always been pretty fast there and I look forward to having the E90 there for the first time. I think the E90s will do really well at Lime Rock as the turns are mid-to-high-speed turns which the car excels at. The car really likes to carry speed into a turn and then drive it out which from what I remember about LRP all the turns are that way. Plus this weekend I will be pulling double duty driving in both the World Challenge race on Monday and in a BMW in another series on Saturday. With all the track time and driving BMWs all weekend I think this is going to be a great race for us!"

Courtesy:
BimmerWorld Media Services
mediaservices@bimmerworld.com

More information about the team, cars, and drivers can be found at
www.bimmerworldracing.com

Information on BimmerWorld's Customer Car Services can be found at
www.bimmerworld.com

Details on PowerFlex Suspension Bushings can be found at
www.powerflexusa.com

Posted On 5/26/07

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Altenburg Continues to Lead SPEED Touring Car Practice at Lime Rock

Sat, 26 May 2007 10:19:45 PST

Altenburg Continues to Lead SPEED Touring Car Practice at Lime Rock
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

LAKEVILLE, Conn. (May 26, 2007) - Hot off his second-straight win to open the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship season, Jeff Altenburg, of Ellicott, Md., continued to lead practice after the second session for the Round Three race at Lime Rock Park. Defending SCCA SPEED Touring Car Champion Pierre Kleinubing, of Coconut Creek, Fla., was second, followed by Seth Thomas, of Cumming, Ga.

Driving the No. 72 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6, Altenburg improved upon his fast time from yesterday's practice session to turn a 58.305 (93.851 mph) around the 1.53-mile circuit and keep his spot atop the time sheets.

"This is a handling track more than anything and we've gotten this Mazda 6 to the next level as far as the handling goes," Altenburg said. "Utah was a handling track as well so the car was good out of the box. We basically ran the exact setup from Utah, we didn't change anything. We played around with some Lime Rock stuff and I didn't like it, so we're back to exactly what we ran for the race at Utah except with sticker tires on and that's where we are.

"I'm comfortable that I have a fast car. I'm comfortable that I have pretty good knowledge of the track and we should be shooting for a top-five."

A four-time winner at Lime Rock Park, Kleinubing improved his time throughout the session, but was unable to catch Altenburg. The No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura TSX put in a fast time of 58.383 (94.342 mph).

"I feel like I catch them under braking and through the corners, but I don't have the torque," Kleinubing said. "They seem to be able to make a mistake and still fix it with the gas pedal, where my car seems flat on the gas. Our gear ratios are the same now so we can tell exactly where we're different."

As the BimmerWorld team continues to develop the cars, its pace continues to quicken. Thomas, who qualified third at Miller Motorsports Park, was third fastest in practice at Lime Rock Park. The driver of the No. 38 BimmerWorld BMW 325i turned a 58.441 (94.249 mph).

RealTime team owner Peter Cunningham put in a 58.545 (94.081 mph) in his No. 42 Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura TSX to finish practice in fourth. The No. 97 Mazdaspeed/Tindol/Oakley/Sparco Mazda 6 of Charles and Espenlaub completed the top five with a time of 58.557 (94.062 mph).

With the top 16 cars separated by less than 0.9-second, Saturday afternoon's qualifying session will be a hard fought contest and drivers will find it difficult to use their teammates as drafting partners on the short and quick Lime Rock course. The 30-minute qualifying session is scheduled to begin at 5:10 p.m. (EDT).

To follow all the weekend action via live web notes and timing and scoring, check out the SCCA Pit Board at www.world-challenge.com.

Combined practice results for Monday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED Touring Championship Round Three race, part of the SPEED Touring Car Classic, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, :58.305, 94.468.
2, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, :58.383, 94.342.
3, (38), Seth Thomas, Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, :58.441, 94.249.
4, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, :58.545, 94.081.
5, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, :58.557, 94.062.
6, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, :58.610, 93.977.
7, (29), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, :58.685, 93.857.
8, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, :58.701, 93.831.
9, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, :58.706, 93.823.
10, (74), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey Mexico, , Mazda 6, :58.743, 93.764.
11, (16), Phil Parlato(T), Commack, N.Y., BMW 325i, :58.934, 93.460.
12, (8), Jason Martinelli, Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, :58.944, 93.444.
13, (19), Adam Pecorari(R), Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, :58.985, 93.379.
14, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, :59.011, 93.338.
15, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, :59.072, 93.242.
16, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, :59.165, 93.095.
17, (34), Nick Esayian, Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, :59.346, 92.811.
18, (36), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, :59.433, 92.675.
19, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, :59.491, 92.585.
20, (11), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Dodge SRT-4, :59.604, 92.410.
21, (31), Jameson Riley, Wilton, Conn., Volvo S40, 1:00.478, 91.074.
22, (60), Fred Pignataro(T), East Northport, N.Y., BMW 325i, 1:00.528, 90.999.
23, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 1:01.058, 90.209.
24, (24), Jim Osborn(T), Ooltewah, N.J., Volkswagen Jetta TDI, 1:03.370, 86.918.
25, (4), Hal Brown(R), Blacksburg, Va., Dodge SRT-4, 1:03.372, 86.915.

Attached image: No. 72 Mazda 6 of Jeff Altenburg at Lime Rock Park
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 5/26/07

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Altenburg Paces Opening SPEED Touring Car Practice At Lime Rock

Fri, 25 May 2007 03:14:59 PST

Altenburg Paces Opening SPEED Touring Car Practice At Lime Rock
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

LAKEVILLE, Conn. (May 25, 2007) Hot off his second-straight win to open the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship season, Jeff Altenburg, of Ellicott City, Md., paced the opening practice session for Monday's Round Three race at Lime Rock Park. Teammate Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., and Peter Cunningham, of Grafton, Wis., completed the top three.

Driving the No. 72 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6, Altenburg turned a quick time of 58.689 (93.851 mph) midway through his session around the 1.53-mile circuit.

"This is a handling track more than anything and we've gotten this Mazda 6 to the next level as far as the handling goes," Altenburg said. "Utah was a handling track as well so the car was good out of the box. We basically ran the exact setup from Utah, we didn't change anything. We played around with some Lime Rock stuff and I didn't like it, so we're back to exactly what we ran for the race at Utah except with sticker tires on and that's where we are.

"I'm comfortable that I have a fast car. I'm comfortable that I have pretty good knowledge of the track and we should be shooting for a top-five."

Pobst turned his fast time of 58.791 (93.688 mph) late in the session in the No. 73 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6. Pobst finished third in last night's SPEED GT race at Lowe's Motor Speedway.

Driving the No. 42 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura TSX, Cunningham turned a fastest time of 58.884 (93.540 mph). James Sofronas was fourth in his No. 29 Global Motorsports Group BMW 325Ci with a 58.970 (93.403 mph).

Four-time Lime Rock winner Pierre Kleinubing was fifth in his No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura TSX with a fast time of 58.978 (93.391 mph).

The series' second practice session is scheduled for Saturday at 10:30 a.m. (EDT). Qualifying is set for 5:10 p.m.

To follow all the weekend action via live web notes and timing and scoring, check out the SCCA Pit Board at www.world-challenge.com.

Results from the first practice session for Monday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Championship Round Three Race, part of the SPEED Touring Car Classic at Lime Rock Park, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, :58.689, 93.850.
2, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, :58.791, 93.687.
3, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, :58.884, 93.539.
4, (29), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, :58.970, 93.403.
5, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, :58.978, 93.390.
6, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, :59.118, 93.169.
7, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, :59.220, 93.009.
8, (38), Seth Thomas, Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, :59.230, 92.993.
9, (19), Adam Pecorari(R), Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, :59.402, 92.724.
10, (8), Jason Martinelli, Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, :59.423, 92.691.
11, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, :59.619, 92.386.
12, (16), Phil Parlato(T), Commack, N.Y., BMW 325i, :59.647, 92.343.
13, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 1:00.015, 91.777.
14, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 1:00.081, 91.676.
15, (74), Roberto Santos(R), Monterrey Mexico, , Mazda 6, 1:00.097, 91.651.
16, (34), Nick Esayian, Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 1:00.196, 91.501.
17, (96), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 1:00.279, 91.375.
18, (60), Fred Pignataro, East Northport, N.Y., BMW 325i, 1:00.541, 90.979.
19, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 1:02.002, 88.835.
20, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 1:02.583, 88.011.
21, (31), Jameson Riley, Wilton, Conn., Volvo S40, 1:02.656, 87.908.
22, (24), Jim Osborn(T), Ooltewah, N.J., Volkswagen Jetta TDI, 1:04.516, 85.374.
23, (4), Hal Brown(R), Blacksburg, Va., Dodge SRT-4, no time.
24, (11), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Dodge SRT-4, no time.
25, (36), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, no time.

Attached: Image of Jeff Altenburg in today's SCCA SPEED Touring Car practice session at Lime Rock Park.
Credit: Image Copyright Mark Weber/SCCA

Posted On 5/25/07

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Justin Hall Wraps Up The 2007 Koni Challenge Weekend At Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca

Fri, 25 May 2007 09:11:10 PST

Justin Hall Wraps Up The 2007 Koni Challenge Weekend At Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
By Mark Dadgar, JustRacing.com Staff

JustRacing.com is proud to present BSI/JustRacing.com #58 driver Justin Hall in an excluse post-race series in which he gives his unique insights into the competitive Grand Am Koni Challenge 2007 season.

Let me start by saying "sorry" for the delay in publishing this report, but as you read on I am sure you will forgive me, as this has been one of the most exciting weeks in my life for reasons that go far beyond racing. On Monday May 14, my wife and I went to Sutter Hospital in Sacramento for a scheduled inducement of labor given she was 2 weeks overdue to give birth at this time. At 9:35pm Rhett James Hall entered the world at a very large 9lb 11oz and 21". Because Rhett was born so late into the evening, the medical staff held my wife and boy at the hospital 'til Wednesday and, of course, testing at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca began on Thursday. Chaos would be an accurate description ... Fortunately we only live about 3 hours from the track, so I could leave on Thursday morning and make the test day had this been a travel race I would have probably been forced to skip it. My parents came down from Oregon to help out, making it easier to leave my wife at home with a newborn and our 5 year old daughter Reagan; my mom staying behind and my dad as excited as he could be to join me at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

We were excited to receive competition allowances in the form of more aggressive cams and better rear end gearing from the Grand Am Koni Challenge officials between Iowa and Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Even though the team had recorded a couple of Top 10 finishes thus far, anyone who had been watching saw we were far from competitive on track based on speed and our finishes had been a result of sound endurance racing strategy. Unfortunately, the window for doing the prep to implement these allowances was rather short - both cars would end up with the improved differential but our motor builder (Sunbelt) would only have time to finish a motor for one of the cars and even that had to be overnighted to Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. The motor sat in the paddock throughout Thursday as the proverbial elephant in the room drivers of both cars curious regarding which car would end up with the extra pop for the weekend.

Because there were very valid arguments for either car to end up with the motor, the decision was ultimately settled in the most diplomatic way possible - a coin flip. One shot at it, heads the motor goes in the 56 and tails the 58 gets it. Strangely enough, odds went against me and I lost the coin flip - which is unusual because those of you who know me understand that I am generally a lucky guy and am going to win a coin flip about 60% of the time - so needless to say I was pretty disappointed. Such is life.

We experienced more mechanical gremlins during the test and practice sessions than we are used to - the folks at BSI have traditionally brought the cars to the track ready to roll flawlessly, and while that was certainly the intention this weekend, but not for lack of effort, that didn't prove out this time. During one of the test sessions the differential seals let go and during one of the practice sessions electrical gremlins chewed up a wire after just 3 laps. Fortunately Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca is very familiar to both me and Magnus so while we didn't really need to learn the track we were still missing setup opportunity on the car but again, that's just racing.

We decided to employ the same race strategy we have been using throughout the season, which is to have Magnus qualify the car (and thus per the rules start the race), and I take one of the earlier opportunities within the first couple of yellows to get into the car thus not sacrifice track position by being forced to do a green flag stop. Magnus did a stellar job in qualifying, putting the car 18th on the grid directly behind the team car.

At the start of the race the grid got a bit scrambled when the row opposite Magnus shifted ahead as the pack negotiated the corkscrew and T9. This is a tricky situation for a driver and in a quick-thinking effort to hold position and not be penalized, etc. Magnus actually started a bit behind the cars in front of him. As we are used to seeing given the HP differences, the cars ahead of Magnus motored away on the front straight as soon as the green flag dropped. However, Magnus was able to keep up quite nicely and was able to overtake a couple of cars before we received a caution around the 40 minute mark in the race. I was disheartened to hear Magnus radio in concern of a tight transmission and difficulty getting the car into second gear and at this point he decided it would be a good idea to do the driver change.

I immediately found Magnus' concerns to be spot-on, I frankly didn't think the tranny had a prayers chance in hell of making it the next two hours, but there was nothing we could do but go into conservation mode and be as smooth as possible - absolute focus on each shift, optimal rev matching, etc. Only a couple of other teams decided to pit when we did, and at this point I believe our on track position was 14th or so. The race went on for the next 20 minutes or so during which time I was able to pick up another 4-5 positions and another yellow emerged. This time a number of teams decided to pit which after all the cycling left us in 4th position at the time the green flag dropped again!

I was very excited to be running this high, as this was as high as either car had run during the season thus far. We are still down on power and overall performance to many of the other cars (particularly the top ones) in the series but closer via the gearing change, and because I have so much time at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca I was hoping to employ some home cooking! I knew it would be tough to get around the RX8 and Acura in front of me, but I felt that I had a reasonable chance to overtake the Cobalt and if I could do it quickly I would not be subject to pressure from behind. Well, sometimes you just have to love it when a good plan comes together - because of the HP difference I couldn't overtake into T2 on the start as I would have liked, however I was able to stuff it down going into the Corkscrew using a nice outside in fake. WOOHOO we are now running in P3!!!!

We would end up running in P3 for quite some time. I was a bit quicker through a few of the turns than the cars in front of me but we simply didn't have the HP to effect further upward advancement. Quite frankly I was driving the wheels off the car just to stay in 3rd, and even then only able to do so by virtue of staying in the draft of the cars ahead of me. Even so, I was comfortable and the guys in front of me weren't doing anything stupid and because I had to nurse the tranny anyway, where we were seemed like the right place to be for now.

But, the inevitable was starting to occur, and the car was becoming extremely hard to shift. Entering T11 I was unable to find 2nd gear and the ensuing 4 wheel drift and horrible exit speed would be enough for me to loose the draft from the cars ahead of me. Lap times immediately dropped by 1-1.5 seconds. At this point I was alone and at the mercy of the cars now catching me from behind. Knowing they would be faster I decided to let them by easy and try to draft so I could pick up the draft and improve my lap times and not fall further back, but the first chance to do this was with the Subaru Legacy and this car absolutely walked me on the straight and I had no chance at all to hang ... oh well. The next opportunity ended up working out pretty well with the Turner BMW and I just stayed on his bumper 'til the next caution.

We didn't have the fuel mileage to go the distance from our first stop so we decided to come in for a splash of fuel and right side tires. Oops!!! A lug nut jammed in the socket on our tire change (right side) which cost a couple positions under yellow and as the green flag dropped this time I found myself two spots behind the team car mired back in about 10th place which two races ago I would have been stoked about but after running P3 for so long I was exceedingly disappointed. Oh well, time to harness that energy and do something about it - get to work!

It didn't take long to pass the car right in front of me and I found myself on the rear bumper of Todd Buras driving the team car. There are no team orders at BSI, but we are both mature enough not to crash each other out either. At this point I was capable of going faster but in fairness so was Todd, he was really being held up by those in front of him, so the clear choice was to work together and get through this chaff. Even though Todd isn't a local to Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, he has enough experience to be quite good through the high pucker factor T6. Todd and I both got good runs out of T6 and I was able to bump him past a BMW, but there wasn't time for me to get through by T8, but being unwilling to let Todd go I aggressively dove down in T9 to overtake and get back on Todd's bumper. We kept working together for the next couple laps advancing our positions, ultimately I was able to overtake Todd into T2 and nearing the end of the race Magnus and I were running back in P4!!!!

As exciting as this has all been, of course we can not forget the ailing gearbox, at this point missed shifts were more and more frequent and it was all I could do to mitigate the costs of each. I stopped using 2nd gear entirely which hurt in turns 11, 2, and 8 but I would rather finish high, maybe sacrificing 1-2 positions, than have a DNF. The last 6 or 7 laps, 15 minutes or so, were very exciting - two cars closing in on me fast, no second gear, tires gone (but heck they were gone for everyone else too) - my work was cut out for me. There just wasn't anything I could do to keep the Subaru behind me, he passed with 4 to go. The Turner BMW was about 10 seconds back, at this point each gear was grinding and the lateral loading was binding the drive train. Each lap I didn't think the car had another lap in it but we had to press on. The third to the last lap I drove the entire lap in 4th gear, but the Turner BMW was catching me so on the final lap I had to use 3rd and 4th. Miraculously the car held together and we finished a couple seconds up on the Turner BMW in 5th place - the highest finishing position for the MX-5 in this series and the top finishing Mazda for this race!!!!

Needless to say Magnus and I and the whole team were ecstatic with the result!!! As excited as I was, I equally couldn't wait to get home and see my newly expanded family! But, there's no time to rest on our laurels as we are at Lime Rock in 6 short days.

Wish us luck.

Find out more about Justin Hall and his racing career by visiting his new web site at www.justinracing.org.

Posted On 5/25/07

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Pilgrim Leads Cadillac One-Two In SPEED GT At Charlotte

Thu, 24 May 2007 09:20:35 PST

Pilgrim Leads Cadillac One-Two In SPEED GT At Charlotte
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

CONCORD, N.C. (May 24, 2007) Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., led a Team Cadillac one-two finish Thursday at Lowe's Motor Speedway during Round Four of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship. Lawson Aschenbach, of W. Palm Beach, Fla., and Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., completed the top three.

Driving the No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V, Pilgrim qualified fourth but started third on the grid after second-starting Michael McCann withdrew his Dodge Viper due to a blown engine in qualifying. The 2005 series Champion moved to second when early leader and polesitter Michael Galati, of Olmsted, Ohio, spun in the back-straight chicane.

At the race's intermission, scheduled after the first 20-minute half, the Lowe's Motor Speedway "Wheel of Inversion" was spun, with number two coming up, meaning second place Pilgrim would start the final 20-minute half first, with first half leader Pobst lining his No. 22 K-PAX Racing/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 second.

At the restart, Pilgrim got the jump, earning the B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race as the field went two-by-two into the turn one chicane, and slowly pulled away from the field. Pobst ran hard for the first three-quarters of the final segment, but his handling went off in the end, allowing Aschenbach's No. 1 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V by into second.

Pilgrim captured his sixth-career win by 11.558 seconds, averaging 99.004 mph in the 66.6-mile race around Lowe's Motor Speedway's modified super speedway.

"The car was phenomenal, Pilgrim said. "We knew we had a good car. We have a heavier car, so we knew brake fade would probably be our only issue if we could hold the setup. In the first session, with Michael [Galati] spinning in that small chicane it's a miracle that he [Pobst] or I got through there. There was only inches between me, the wall and Michael. Three times cars spun in the small chicane and I managed to squeak through.

"I thought he [Pobst] might try to get me on the restart. I had a bit of a plan there and luckily it worked out and I managed to get out of there clean and push as hard as I could. My right foot is burned. I think it has blisters on it, because I was pushing so hard on the brake and the pedal was getting so low and the car was getting so hot, that my foot was just burning up. I pushed as hard as I could and the car ran flawlessly.

"Today was definitely my day and Cadillac's day and I'm thrilled for the Cadillac team. This one was a tough one. We came in here thinking a top five was more than we could hope for, but it turns out we get a one-two, so what can I say?"

After starting 13th, Aschenbach finally caught a break at the start. Two races ago, it was the defending series Champion who lost out in the standing start and opening lap chaos. Today, the 23-year old capitalized on others' misfortunes, moving up eight spots on the opening lap and into third place by lap three.

"We were pretty upset about qualifying," Aschenbach said. "I ended up switching cars right before qualifying and got into a car I didn't know and didn't quite fit in. But I got it in the field, found out what was going on with it and I knew it was going to be a good car. I trusted my guys for sure.

"The biggest thing was just keeping my nose clean. I believe I had a really good start. I think I passed five or six people just into Turn One. I just kept it clean and I think I was sixth after the first lap. I just kept my head down and kept picking people off one by one. I knew we didn't have a good shot to get up to the front so I was just biding my time and kept the car on the track.

"The main thing is just how amazing Team Cadillac is. They did such a great job getting the car up there and they gave me a great car to drive through the field. We were pretty comfortable with third and when I saw Randy slowing down I didn't know what was going on, but I knew I had to get after him and see if I could get second and get us a Cadillac one-two and thankfully we did."

Pobst took over the lead from teammate Galati on lap six and held a commanding lead when the first session ended. But a win was not in the cards for the 2004 series Champion.

"We had quite a challenge running at Charlotte on the oval," Pobst said. "It was pretty exciting the first couple of laps, my teammate had a little problem going into the chicane. He spun while I was running second. I tracked out and just made it through. Then Andy [Pilgrim] and I ran hard for a long time, but he faded, he might have had a little bit of a brake problem.

"I was feeling great until we got to the pit stop in the middle of the race when we did the tire change. My right-rear was toast, so the team advised me to be much more conservative in the second half of the race. Then about two-thirds of the way through I began feeling a vibration and smelling something, so that's why I started to conserve it.

"There was a lot of attrition in this race. A lot of the guys I'm trying to catch in the championship fell out of the race and a couple of them didn't, but the K-PAX Racing/3R team did a great job with my Porsche. It was a bloody fast car and we brought it home third."

Rob Foster, of Phoenix, Ariz., finished a career-best fourth in his No. 17 LTI Contracting/Foster Motorsports Dodge Viper, also capturing the Toyo Tires Cup in the process.

Jeff Courtney, of Slinger, Wis., completed the top five with his career-best finish in the No. 99 Kenda/MPI/Badger/Karavan Dodge Viper.

NASCAR Nextel Cup star Kasey Kahne finished sixth in a guest-star run in the No. 9 Kicker/Woodhouse Auto Family Dodge Viper. Kahne started ninth and ran in the top four for much of the race before being forced to go straight through the back-straight chicane by a hard-charging Galati on lap 24.

Galati moved to the inside to out-brake Kahne as they entered the corner, with Kahne not being able to get the Viper maneuvered through the tight chicane.

Galati's charge from 15th after his spin ended while battling Aschenbach for third on lap 32, when he clipped the end of the second chicane, breaking his left-front suspension.

Tony Gaples finished seventh in his No. 34 Blackdog Racing/Kleinschmidt Chevrolet Corvette after starting 20th, thus earning the Sunoco Hard Charger award for advancing the most positions in the race.

Sonny Whelen (Chevrolet Corvette), Jefferey Robbins (Dodge Viper) and Robb Holland (Porsche 911 GT3) completed the top 10. Robbins was the Piloti Rookie of the Race in his No. 6 RSIG Security Dodge Viper for being the highest-finishing rookie driver.

Pilgrim's win moved him into first place in the Drivers' Championship, with 112 points to Aschenbach's 100. Pobst is third, with 99, followed by Tommy Archer (94) and Galati (93). Eric Curran, who won the first two races of the season, had his second-straight DNF of the season after making contact with the Porsche of James Sofronas, who was rebounding from contact with the back straight chicane on the opening lap. Curran is now sixth, with 84 points.

The one-two finish also put Cadillac into the lead of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED GT Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER Magazine, 25 to 24 over Chevrolet. Dodge and Porsche are tied for third, with 15.

Today's race will be broadcast Saturday, June 2 at 4 p.m. (EDT) on SPEED.

The series has a week off before traveling to Watkins Glen International for a race on June 10.

Results from Thursday's 45-lap, 66.6-mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Four race, part of CTC Pole Night for the Coca-Cola 600 at Lowe's Motor Speedway with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps and reason out (if any).

1. (3), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 45.
2. (13), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 45, -11.558.
3. (2), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 45, -18.105.
4. (8), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 45, -30.003.
5. (11), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 45, -30.806.
6. (9), Kasey Kahne, Enumclaw, Wash., Dodge Viper, 45, -32.866.
7. (20), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 44, -1 lap.
8. (12), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 44, -1 lap.
9. (17), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 44, -1 lap.
10. (16), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Porsche 911, 43, -2 laps.
11. (19), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 42, -3 laps.
12. (18), Ed Braswell(R), Key West, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 42, -3 laps.
13. (15), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 39, -6 laps.
14. (1), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 31, -14 laps.
15. (14), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 20, -25 laps.
16. (4), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 20, -25 laps.
17. (7), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 6, -39 laps.
18. (5), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1, -44 laps.
19. (6), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 0, -45 laps.
20. (21), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 0, -45 laps.
21. (10), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 0, -45 laps.

Time of race: 40 minutes, 21.716 seconds.
Average speed: 99.004 mph
Margin of victory: 11.558 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-1, #23 Michael Galati; laps 2-2, #22 Randy Pobst; laps 3-5, #23 Michael Galati; laps 6-20, #22 Randy Pobst; laps 21-45, #8 Andy Pilgrim
Fastest race lap: #8 Andy Pilgrim, 49.309 (108.053 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #23 Michael Galati, 49.293 (108.088 mph)
Sunoco Hard Charger: #34 Tony Gaples advanced 13 positions
B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race: #8 Andy Pilgrim for his restart
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #6 Jeffrey Robbins
Toyo Tires Cup: #17 Rob Foster

SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT Drivers' Championship After Four of 10 Races
Pos., Driver, Car, Points (Wins)
1, Andy Pilgrim, Cadillac CTS-V, 112 (1)
2, Lawson Aschenbach, Cadillac CTS-V, 100
3, Randy Pobst, Porsche 911 GT-3, 99
4, Tommy Archer, Dodge Viper, 94 (1)
5, Michael Galati, Porsche 911 GT-3, 93
6, Eric Curran, Chevrolet Corvette, 84 (2)
7, Rob Foster, Dodge Viper, 78
8, Lou Gigliotti, Chevrolet Corvette, 70
9, Doug Peterson, Chevrolet Corvette, 70
10, Jeff Courtney, Dodge Viper, 67

SCCA SPEED World Challenge Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER
Pos., Manufacturer, Points (Wins)
1, Cadillac, 25 (1)
2, Chevrolet, 24 (2)
3, Dodge, 15 (1)
Porsche, 15

Attached image: The No. 8 Cadillac CTS-V of Andy Pilgrim under the lights of Lowe's Motor Speedway
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 5/24/07

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Galati Takes SPEED GT Pole at Lowe's Motor Speedway

Thu, 24 May 2007 02:23:29 PST

Galati Takes SPEED GT Pole at Lowe's Motor Speedway
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

CONCORD, N.C. (May 24, 2007) Michael Galati, of Olmsted, Ohio, will start Thursday night's Round Four SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship race on pole at Lowe's Motor Speedway. Taking place on CTC Pole Night, the race will follow NASCAR Nextel Cup Qualifying. Michael McCann, of North Canton, Ohio, will start second.

Collecting his first pole since Mid-Ohio in 2004, Galati needed only one lap to put in his pole time of 49.293 (108.088 mph) at the 1.5-mile modified oval. After pacing morning practice, the No. 23 K-PAX Racing LCC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 driver shaved nearly half a second off of his time to capture his 22nd career-pole.

"It's really nice to be here," Galati said. "It's a little bit different with just a couple chicanes on the oval, we're pretty much flat-out the whole way around. Going into the chicanes we're braking really hard, but then we're back on the gas full song. We were here back in 2000, but we were using the road course, it's completely different this time."

"I think our car is good because it's lighter. We don't have the torque at the bottom end, but we can brake really deep and do the transition very quick, so in the middle of the corner, the braking is really good. We don't have the same top speed on the straightaway, but here it's the exit of the corners that's really important. If you can get out of there a couple miles an hour quicker than the other guy, you're gonna be up front."

With the pole, Galati earned enough points to pass Tommy Archer in the standings and enters the race this evening second in the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED GT Championship. Archer's car was damaged in practice and could not be repaired in time for qualifying.

Putting in his best qualifying effort of the season, McCann placed his No. 82 McCann Plastics/K&N Filters Dodge Viper second on the grid with a time of 49.351 (107.961 mph). Shortly after setting his fast time, McCann had a bearing failure in a wheel hub that sidelined his car off course at the first chicane. He stayed parked there for the rest of the session.

Galati's teammate, Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., will start just behind his teammate in third. Driving the No 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3, Pobst entered a time of 49.354 (107.954 mph).

Starting fourth is the No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V of Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., who turned in a time of 49.478 (107.684 mph). Lou Gigliotti, of Dallas, Texas, will start fifth in his No. 28 LG Pro Long Tube Headers Chevrolet Corvette with a time of 49.506 (107.623 mph).

James Sofronas (Porsche 911 GT3), current point leader Eric Curran (Chevrolet Corvette), Brian Kubinski (Chevrolet Corvette), Rob Foster (Dodge Viper) and NASCAR Nextel Cup star Kasey Kahne (Dodge Viper) will complete the top ten on the grid.

Tonight's SCCA SPEED GT Race will launch from a standing start at approximately 8:45 p.m. (EDT) following Nextel Cup qualifying.

For full event coverage including live timing and lap notes visit www.world-challenge.com

Starting lineup for Thursday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Round Four race, part of the Coca Cola 600 (CTC Pole Night) at Lowe's Motor Speedway, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, :49.293, 108.088.
2, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, :49.351, 107.961.
3, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, :49.354, 107.954.
4, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, :49.478, 107.684.
5, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, :49.506, 107.623.
6, (14), James Sofronas, Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, :49.510, 107.614.
7, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, :49.552, 107.523.
8, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, :49.572, 107.480.
9, (17), Rob Foster, Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, :49.832, 106.919.
10, (9), Kasey Kahne, Enumclaw, Wash., Dodge Viper, :49.835, 106.912.
11, (05), Jason Daskalos, Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, :50.029, 106.498.
12, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, :50.204, 106.127.
13, (31), Sonny Whelen, Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, :50.368, 105.781.
14, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, :50.467, 105.574.
15, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, :51.044, 104.380.
16, (87), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, :51.310, 103.839.
17, (24), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Porsche 911, :51.717, 103.022.
18, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, :51.905, 102.649.
19, (32), Ed Braswell(R), Key West, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, :52.936, 100.649.
20, (5), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, no time.
21, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, no time.

Attached image: No. 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 of Michael Galati
Credit: SCCA/Weber image

Posted On 5/24/07

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Galati Leads SPEED GT Practice at Lowe's Motor Speedway

Thu, 24 May 2007 12:21:59 PST

Galati Leads SPEED GT Practice at Lowe's Motor Speedway
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

CONCORD, N.C. (May 24, 2007) Five-time World Challenge Champion Michael Galati, of Olmstead, Ohio, led practice at Lowe's Motor Speedway for Round Four of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship, part of NASCAR Nextel Cup's CTC Pole Night. Teammate Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., was second fastest, followed by current point leader Eric Curran, of East Hampton, Mass.

Driving the No. 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3, Galati was third in the first practice session at the 1.5-mile modified oval, but found nearly 0.4-second in the second session, to top the practice times with a 49.666 (107.276 mph).

"We improved the brakes and worked on the handling since we were here for the [March] test," Galati said. "I think we're still lacking a little straight-line speed. The guys have done a great job though. The braking areas are where you make up all your time."

Teammate to Galati, Pobst jumped to second fastest on the day with one last hot lap as the checkered flag fell on the second practice session. The No. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 pilot put in a time of 49.753 (107.089 mph).

Current point leader and driver of the No. 30 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette, Curran gained one spot between the morning and afternoon sessions, finishing the morning third fastest with a time of 49.783 (107.024 mph).

Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., was the fastest of the Cadillacs in his No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V. A first session time of 49.823 (106.938 mph) was good enough for fourth on the time sheets.

Winner last weekend at Miller Motorsports Park, Tommy Archer, of Duluth, Minn., completed the top five. The No. 5 MOPAR/Autohaus Motorsport Dodge Viper clocked in a 49.954 (106.658 mph).

Driving the No. 9 Kicker/Woodhouse Dodge Viper in his SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge debut, NASCAR Nextel Cup Star Kasey Kahne, of Enumclaw, Wash., showed improvement in the morning practice, picking up two spots and more than 0.7-second in the second session to end practice in 13th.

Qualifying for Round Four of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Championship at Lowe's Motor Speedway is scheduled for 12:15 p.m. today, May 24. (EDT). Log onto www.world-challenge.com for live timing and lap notes.

Combined practice results for Thursday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship race part of the Coca Cola 600 CTC Pole Night at Lowe's Motor Speedway, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, :49.666, 107.276.
2, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, :49.753, 107.089.
3, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, :49.783, 107.024.
4, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, :49.823, 106.938.
5, (5), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, :49.954, 106.658.
6, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, :50.011, 106.536.
7, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, :50.086, 106.377.
8, (14), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, :50.180, 106.177.
9, (31), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, :50.190, 106.156.
10, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, :50.216, 106.101.
11, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, :50.219, 106.095.
12, (17), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, :50.281, 105.964.
13, (9), Kasey Kahne, Enumcaw, Calif., Dodge Viper, :50.417, 105.678.
14, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, :50.604, 105.288.
15, (87), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, :50.697, 105.095.
16, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, :50.877, 104.723.
17, (32), Ed Braswell(R), Key West, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, :50.895, 104.686.
18, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, :51.381, 103.696.
19, (24), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Porsche 911, :51.964, 102.532.
20, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, :52.225, 102.020.
21, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, :52.633, 101.229.
22, (48), Jimmie Johnson, El_Casjon, Calif., Cadillac CTS-V, no time.

Attached: No. 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 of Michael Galati.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 5/24/07

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USERA Spec Racer Challenge Season Opener at Mosport

Wed, 23 May 2007 12:55:42 PST

USERA Spec Racer Challenge Season Opener at Mosport
By Ken Grammer, USERA

DANVILLE, VA. (May 23, 2007) The United States Endurance Racing Association hosted the opening round of the Spec Racer Challenge last weekend at Mosport International Raceway. The series, which features SCCA Enterprises Spec Racer Fords, is an exciting spec series with close racing in purpose build sports racing machines.

The Mosport race weekend featured double rounds of the Spec Racer Challenge, as well as a round of the USERA Endurance Championship.

Race 1 of the Spec Racer Challenge Saturday morning was won in an impressive flag to flag drive by Herb Sweeney IV (Somerville, MA), with Duncan Potter (Cape Elizabeth, ME) finishing second and Don Kahn (Colrain, MA) finishing third.

Race 2 on Sunday featured a great father-son battle with Herb Sweeney IV fending off his hard charging father, Herb Sweeney III (Spring City, PA). The battle went down to the last lap with Sweeney the Elder closing on his son, only to slide wide at Turn 9 and end his weekend with a damaged left rear and a quick visit to the infield care center. Sweeney IV sailed through the last turns to an impressive sweep of the double header, followed by Carl Warren (Berlin, MA) in second and Kahn repeating his Saturday results with an impressive second third place finish.

But the most impressive bit of racing of the weekend is undoubtedly the USERA Endurance Championship run of driver duo Warren and newcomer Jennifer Carlson (Winnipeg, Manitoba, CA) in Warren's #13 KML Racing Spec Racer. While other teams ran flat out and raced a three stop program, Warren and Carlson ran conservative lap times for a two stop strategy that nearly netted them the USERA victory. Most teams were only able to race for about 40 to 45 minutes before being forced to stop for fuel. Warren ran an amazing hour and ten minutes before pitting to hand the car over to Carlson. Carlson, new to the excitement of endurance racing, was a bit aggressive on her pit exit and was hit with a stop and go penalty for speeding. That forced an additional stop and would bite the driving duo in the closing stages of the race. Carlson collected herself and ran another 70+ minute stint before pitting for fuel and to hand the car over to Warren for the closing laps. The conservative strategy allowed Carlson to lead the USERA group, and run as high as second place overall!

When race leader Duncan Potter pitted for his last stop with about 30 minutes remaining, Warren was less then 31 seconds back. The gap between them closed some, but Potter and Warren were running virtually identical lap times, and Potter was flawless in the closing stages of the race, making it impossible for Warren to catch Potter. Still, it was an impressive run and demonstrated that in endurance racing, strategy is often more important then being the fastest car.

Goodyear Tire provides tire contingencies for the Spec Racer Challenge podium finishers. First place won four free tires per race, while second and third place earned two tires each per race.

Shoes for Crews provided certificates for a free slip resistant shoes for each podium finisher in both sprint races as well as the podium finishers in the Endurance Championship. Shoes for Crews also provided three certificates for the volunteer race marshals at this event.

Leaving Mosport, Sweeney IV has a 16 point lead over Kahn in the driver point standings. Warren is in third place with Carlson and Potter (who was unable to attend the Sunday race) rounding out the top five.

The next event on the 2007 USERA Spec Racer Challenge calendar is June 8-10 at Watkins Glen International. The Challenge will share the weekend with the Grand-Am Rolex Series and SCCA World Challenge. Full details on the 2007 schedule, as well as additional information on the USERA Spec Racer Challenge, can be found at the series web site at www.usenduro.com.

About USERA
USERA operates and sanctions the Spec Racer Challenge for SCCA Enterprises Spec Racer Fords, and the USERA Endurance Championship for Spec Miata, Spec Racer Fords and IT cars. For more information on USERA, visit www.usenduro.com.

Contact: Ken Grammer, President 434-797-1866; ken@usenduro.com

Attached Image: Spec Racer Challenge Race 2 Podium of Sweeney IV, Warren and Kahn
Credit: USERA, Inc.

Posted On 5/23/07

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CMG And SFF1.com Announce Monaco Charity Raffle Benefiting The Lance Armstrong Foundation

Mon, 21 May 2007 11:06:15 PST

CMG And SFF1.com Announce Monaco Charity Raffle Benefiting The Lance Armstrong Foundation
By Aaron Nichols, Charity Motorsports Group

CMG and SFF1.com will be holding a special raffle after the Monaco Grand Prix to raise funds and awareness for the Lance Armstrong Foundation. Fellow F1 fan Lance Armstrong has been spotted in the principality in the past at the races, and this weekend's raffle will feature two pairs of tickets to the United States Grand Prix this June.

CMG Founder Aaron Nichols will be answering questions about CMG's goals and the Evosport BMW e46 M3 he's currently campaigning around the country at various road course events.

Of course there will be plenty of racing actions as we watch the GP of Monaco followed by the Indy 500 LIVE!! Come out and join the fun and support a great cause!!

For more information visit www.charitymotorsports.org and http://www.charitymotorsports.org/USGPtix.htm. This event is hosted by SFF1.com at Overtime Sports Bar and Grill, 398 7th Street @ Harrison, San Fransico, CA (415) 863-1688. Overtime is putting together a brunch menu we ask you RSVP to help us best prepare for the morning's special event. Thank you!

LIVESTRONG!

Charity Motorsports Group, Inc.
3555 S. El Camino Real, #402
San Mateo, CA 94403-3415
510-300-5255 - phone
510-578-7652 - fax
anichols@charitymotorsports.com
www.charitymotorsports.org

Posted On 5/21/07

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Andy Chittum Wins G-Tech Pro Move Of The Race At Infineon Raceway

Mon, 21 May 2007 11:00:00 PST

Andy Chittum Wins G-Tech Pro Move Of The Race At Infineon Raceway
By Ali Arsham, USTCC

Andy Chittum, driving the LeMans Karting BMW 328ti, was awarded the G-Tech Pro Move of the Race award at the Infineon Raceway round of the Hankook United States Touring Car Championship on May 6, 2007. Chittum won the award with a bold start, gaining about 6 positions by the first turn. Chittum ended up in seventh place at the end of the race but was fighting for second position at one point in the race. The G-Tech Pro RR is a revolutionary performance meter that measures horsepower, 0-60 time, mile time, braking distance, handling g's, RPM recording, 2 hours of data recording, shiftlights, and much more.

To find out more about the G-Tech Pro visit their website at www.gtechpro.com.

Posted On 5/21/07

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BSI Racing: Wish Comes True, both MX-5's Finish in Top-Ten

Sun, 20 May 2007 11:14:34 PST

BSI Racing: Wish Comes True, both MX-5's Finish in Top-Ten
By Lauren Liebowitz, BSI Racing

Monterey, CA, Sat. May 19, 2007 -- After four races in the KONI Challenge season, BSI Racing and Team Garcia earned two top-ten finishes with the Mazda MX-5 race cars at the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca on Saturday, May 19th. Justin Hall and Magnus Karlsson finished 5th in the No. 58 Joe Gibbs/MOMO/ JustRacing.com Mazda. Teammates Todd Buras and Carlos Garcia finished 7th in the No. 58 Joe Gibbs/MOMO MX-5 race car.

The BSI team has been consistently improving with each race finish through out the season but never before have both MX-5 race cars finished in the top-ten together. "This is a dream come true," said team owner Stu Brumer. Brumer and the rest of BSI Racing were counting on the Mazda Raceway to let the team shine on track. At the start of the race Karlsson was running smooth in the No. 58 car then second gear started slipping. Karlsson was able to race through the annoyance and kept a consistent pace. He turned the car over to Hall after a forty minute stint. "It was a great race, very fun," said Karlsson. "It's fun to be at a home track and do so well. I am just stoked. These little cars did great today."

Karlsson was racing on track with Garcia in the No. 56 Mazda. Garcia was having fun passing his competitors, and catching them on the front stretch. After thirty laps, Garcia turned the car over to Buras. Buras joined teammate Justin Hall on the twisty track. After both drivers got comfortable with the pace of the race, they started moving up in position and worked together to help over come competitors. "These cars were capable of running in the lead," said Hall. During the race, Hall was running as high as third place. "When I was up front I was using the cars ahead of me to draft. I was turning some of my fastest lap times when I was right up front. Then an incident occurred with the transmission and I lost my draft and moved back a few positions. That's when having Buras on track really helped," said Hall. Buras and Hall were racing nose to tail and kept the competitors at bay. "I think what also helped with the race result is that BSI is really clicking together. Also Magnus did a good job under the yellow cautions and timed it great for the pit stop and driver change. It has been a great weekend overall," said Hall.

Buras also joined Hall in the race finish. After getting out of the car, Buras was extremely tired but satisfied knowing he had giving it his all. "I had a lot of fun. The cars were great, the crew was great, and the track was all around great. It was tremendous work catching all of the cars on track. But I had a great teammate on track and we were working together getting the faster cars. Now I am totally wiped out," said Buras.

Buras and the rest of BSI Racing will be heading back to the East Coast for the historic Memorial Day weekend race at Lime Rock.

BSI Racing appreciates support from MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development, KONI, Joe Gibbs Racing Oil, MOMO, SPEEDCOM Communications, BBS, Creative Motorsports Solutions, JustRacing.com and Sun Belt Performance Engines.

BSI Racing offers race car preparation, trackside support, fabrication, and parts for the Mazda MX-5. The race team will be campaigning Mazda MX-5 cars in the KONI Challenge Series and participating in the 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup.

For information on MX-5 rental and ownership programs, visit www.bsiracing.com
For information on Team Garcia visit: www.teamgarciaracing.com

Posted On 5/20/07

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Last-Lap Pass In Utah Gives Altenburg Second-Straight SPEED Touring Car Win

Sat, 19 May 2007 10:55:15 PST

Last-Lap Pass In Utah Gives Altenburg Second-Straight SPEED Touring Car Win
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOOELE, Utah (May 19, 2007) Jeff Altenburg, of Ellicott City, Md., collected his second-straight win of the year at Miller Motorsports Park Saturday in dramatic fashion, passing teammate Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., on the final lap of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round Two race, part of the Larry H. Miller Dealerships Utah Grand Prix. Last year's race winner, Pierre Kleinubing, of Coconut Creek, Fla., finished third.

Starting on pole in the No. 72 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6, Altenburg got away from the grid cleanly and led the field into Turn One, followed by his Tri-Point Motorsports teammate Pobst in the No. 73 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6 and the No. 38 BimmerWorld BMW 325i of Seth Thomas.

Montreal's Kuno Wittmer first moved his No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura RSX past Thomas, and after several laps of side-by side racing, Kleinubing was by as well in his No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned Acura TSX. The two Acuras then closed on the Mazdas, and, on lap six, Altenburg's car suddenly shut off, allowing Pobst by, balking Wittmer and allowing Kleinubing into third.

Altenburg's Mazda came back to life, and he and Kleinubing closed gradually on the leader. With three laps to go, Altenburg looked to the inside of Pobst in Turn One, but fell back into line. Just after taking the white flag, Altenburg capitalized on the draft going up the long front-straightaway and out-braked Pobst into Turn One. The pair ran side-by-side for three corners, allowing Kleinubing to close, before settling into line with Altenburg back in the lead.

Altenburg captured his fourth-career win by 0.295-second, averaging 83.160 mph in the 13-lap, 58.318-mile race.

"To get two poles and two wins, that is not something I take for granted in this crowd," Altenburg said. "But if you're going to do that, Tri-Point Motorsports will certainly give you the tools. The Mazda 6 was fantastic. We've made some great gains the past couple of races and I think the car is so predictable and easy to drive. I saw Pierre back there and Kuno [Wittmer], but we just had that little bit more of the package. Times change, but right now we're going to enjoy it.

"Prior to the race we talked about trying to work together and get away from everyone else as much as we could and then near the end, the last three or four laps, just go out there and race as long as we don't compromise Mazda's position or our position. I think that's what we managed to do. I think [Pobst] was fighting hard, I was fighting hard, but we kept it clean. Had I been on the other end of the stick I would have expected the same and given the same. I think it makes for a great show and some of the fiercest racing out there and I was pretty proud of it."

Pobst earned his second-consecutive runner-up finish, and credited the team's work and testing at Miller Motorsports Park for his, and Altenburg's, success.

"It looked like Jeff [Altenburg] had some sort of tire problem right in the middle of the race. I was riding along behind him, trying my best to stay ahead of Kuno and Pierre. All of a sudden, Jeff just dies for a moment and I went into the lead and was just running harder and harder from that moment on.

"It was a great race, a heck of a battle. Pierre almost got me. It was a great show and that's what the series is all about."

Kleinubing earned his second third-place finish in as many 2007 races, just 0.974-second behind the winner, and despite setting the race's fastest lap with a 3:12.168 (84.039 mph), feels that the Acuras just didn't have enough to unseat the Mazdas this weekend.

"I had nothing for them all day long," Kleinubing said. "Once they started fighting between themselves, I was able to catch them a little bit. I would rather have been up ahead of them, but that wasn't the case unfortunately. We've got to work harder and find something. What we have right now is not enough.

"It seemed like they were racing hard and clean in Turn One. I was surprised to see them battle side-by-side and I thought 'oh maybe they'll let me by here at some point or maybe I'll at least get along one of them here for a little while,' but Randy closed the door pretty good and I had to get off the gas."

Wittmer earned his career-best finish with a fourth, just a second and a half away from his first podium. Thomas held on to finish fifth-the best finish for the E90-bodied BMW in SCCA SPEED Touring Car competition.

James Sofronas, of Newport Beach, Calif., finished sixth in his No. 29 Global Motorsports Group BMW 325Ci and was the top Toyo Cup driver, recognizing drivers who do not make their living driving racecars.

Peter Cunningham (Acura TSX), Charles Espenlaub (Mazda 6), James Clay (BMW 325i) and Brandon Davis (Acura TSX) completed the top 10.

Espenlaub earned the Sunoco Hard Charger award for moving from 15th on the grid to finish eighth in his No. 97 Mazdaspeed/Tindol/Oakley/Sparco Mazda 6.

Roberto Santos, of Clearwater, Fla., was the Piloti Rookie of the Race with his 12th place finish in the No. 74 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6.

Brad Sofronas, of Newport Beach, Calif., earned the B&M Holeshot Award after advancing seven positions on the first lap in his No. 30 GMG/Greek Brothers Racing BMW 325Ci.

Altenburg now leads Pobst in the SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Drivers' Championship standings by nine, 83 to 74. Kleinubing is third, with 61, followed by Wittmer (49) and Thomas (44).

Mazda's 20 points leads the SCCA SPEED Touring Car Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER, 11 better than Acura (nine), followed by Audi (three) and BMW (two).

Saturday's race will be broadcast Saturday, May 26 at 1 p.m. (EDT) on SPEED.

The series travels to Lime Rock Park next weekend for Round Three of the Championship.

For more information, please visit www.world-challenge.com.

Results from Saturday's 13-lap, 58.318-mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Round Two race, part of the 2007 Larry H. Miller Dealers Utah Grand Prix at Miller Motorsports Park with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps, distance behind winner and reason out (if any).

1. (1), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 13.
2. (2), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 13, -.295.
3. (4), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 13, -.974.
4. (5), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 13, -2.455.
5. (3), Seth Thomas, Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 13, -9.115.
6. (11), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 13, -11.052.
7. (6), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 13, -11.553.
8. (14), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 13, -13.171.
9. (10), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 13, -29.817.
10. (9), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 13, -42.079.
11. (12), Nick Esayian, Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 13, -43.160.
12. (16), Roberto Santos(R), Clearwater, Fla., Mazda 6, 13, -49.828.
13. (15), Jason Martinelli, Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 13, -51.550.
14. (18), Hal Brown(R), Blacksburg, Va., Dodge SRT-4, 13, -53.248.
15. (24), Adam Pecorari(R), Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, 13, -53.547.
16. (22), Brad Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 13, -2:40.705.
17. (23), Branden Peterson(T), Breckenridge, Colo., Acura TSX, 12, -1 lap.
18. (7), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 12, -1 lap.
19. (19), Charlie Putman(T), Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 12, -1 lap.
20. (17), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 11, -2 laps.
21. (13), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 11, -2 laps.
22. (8), Byron Smith(R), Salt Lake City, Utah, Dodge SRT-4, 4, Mech.
23. (20), Andrie Hartanto, San Francisco, Calif., Honda Civic, 1, Mech.
24. (21), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 0, Damage

Time of race: 42 minutes, 04.566 seconds.
Average speed: 83.160 mph
Margin of victory: 0.295 Second, Record
Lap leaders: Laps 1-5, #72 Jeff Altenburg; laps 6-12, #73 Randy Pobst; laps 13-13, #72 Jeff Altenburg
Fastest race lap: #1 Pierre Kleinubing, 3:12.168 (84.039 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #72 Jeff Altenburg, 3:10.166 (84.923 mph)
Sunoco Hard Charger: #97 Charles Espenlaub
B&M Holeshot Award: #30 Brad Sofronas
Toyo Cup Award: #29 James Sofronas
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #74 Roberto Santos

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship Standings
Pos., Driver, Car, Points (Wins)
1, Jeff Altenburg, Mazda 6, 83 (2)
2, Randy Pobst, Mazda 6, 74
3, Pierre Kleinubing, Acura TSX, 61
4, Kuno Wittmer, Acura RSX, 49
5, Seth Thomas, BMW 325i, 44
6, Peter Cunningham, Acura TSX, 42
7, Charles Espenlaub, Mazda 6, 38
8, Brandon Davis, Acura TSX, 34
9, Chip Herr, Audi A4, 34
10, James Sofronas(T), BMW 325Ci, 33

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED Touring Car Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER
Pos., Manufacturer, Points (Wins)
1, Mazda, 20 (2)
2, Acura, 9
3, Audi, 3
4, BMW, 2

Photo: No. 72 Jeff Altenburg leads teammate No. 73 Pobst at Miller Motorsports Park.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 5/19/07

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Archer Goes Flag-to-Flag in SPEED GT at Utah

Sat, 19 May 2007 10:48:06 PST

Archer Goes Flag-to-Flag in SPEED GT at Utah
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOOELE, Utah (May 19, 2007) Tommy Archer, of Duluth, Minn., captured his first win of the season at Miller Motorsports Park for Round Three of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship, part of the Larry H. Miller Dealerships Utah Grand Prix. Defending race winner Lou Gigliotti, of Dallas, Texas, and Doug Peterson, of Bonita Springs, Fla., completed the podium.

Starting on pole in the No. 5 MOPAR/Autohaus Motorsport Dodge Viper, Archer was immediately challenged by Gigliotti into Turn One at the 4.486-mile, 24-turn road course. Gigliotti's line to the inside cost him dearly however, and allowed Archer to pull more than a second gap ahead of Gigliotti in the first lap, while the Corvette driver fell into the clutches of fifth starting Randy Pobst.

As Gigliotti regained his composure, the gap to Archer closed, but Pobst was not content in third. On lap three, Pobst made the B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race around Gigliotti in Turn One and pressed ahead to make his challenge for the lead. Only two laps later, Pobst tried the same move again on Archer into Turn One, but couldn't keep his No. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 on the road and spun into the runoff area, watching Gigliotti, Doug Peterson and K-PAX teammate Michael Galati drive by.

Back into second, Gigliotti resumed his chase on Archer. The No. 28 LG Pro Long Tube Headers Chevrolet Corvette pilot stayed within a second of Archer for the remainder of the 14-lap, 62.804-mile race, but was unable to mount a serious challenge, crossing the line behind Archer by 0.577-second.

The win is the seventh of Archer's career and his first since last season at Road America.

"It feels really good," Archer said of the weekend. "It's good for a new sponsor. Mopar really hasn't done much with road racing up until now so we feel that they will be good for the series. We had a good setup. It was a little loose in and good off the corner. Lou [Gigliotti] ran us clean and I think we were all thinking a little bit about the fact that we're racing again in another five days [at Lowe's Motor Speedway on Thursday].

"Randy had a good car. I'm not sure why he was trying to make that move so early in the race. I left him a good lane and a half wide and he said he just plain couldn't stop."

The podium finish is the second in-a-row for Gigliotti, who won this race last year.

"Thank goodness the Porsche spun," Gigliotti said. "If he hadn't hit Tommy and slowed him down a little bit then I think it would have been a Porsche and Viper parade. [Pobst] slowed Tommy up a little bit which allowed me to catch up.

"Tommy and I have had some problems lately and the last thing I needed to do was run into him and I think the same for him. The last thing he needed to do was run into me. I tried to race him as clean as I could. If I had touched him, he might have slid out and I might have gotten by him. But even when he was off line, he could get on the throttle and pull away.

"I did think about nudging him a little bit. But I only thought about it."

After earning his first career-pole at Sebring this year in the No. 87 3-Dimensional Services/LG Motorsports Chevrolet Corvette, Peterson captured his career-best finish this weekend, crossing the line in third. Each of the three LG Motorsports Corvettes have now visited the podium this season.

"It really feels good to be on the podium," Peterson said. "I feel like the new kid on the block. I've raced in a number of different series and this is the first year I've focused on just racing in the SPEED World Challenge. I can't believe I'm here. I really can't."

Following his spin on lap five while challenging Archer for the win, Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., was able to work his way back up to fourth, setting the fastest lap of the race and new track record in the process, a 2:57.759 (90.851 mph). The top four cars were separated by just 1.596 seconds.

"On that one lap, for some reason, I really started to catch [Archer] and I couldn't resist," Pobst said. "I pulled out and went for it and he went a lot deeper in the braking zone than we could and I didn't make it. I'm really glad I didn't turn him aroundand I'm sorry I turned me around."

Pobst's teammate, Michael Galati, of Olmstead, Ohio, completed the top five in his No. 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3.

Reigning SCCA SPEED GT Champion Lawson Aschenbach brought his Cadillac CTS-V home in sixth, followed by Toyo Cup winner Rob Foster (Dodge Viper). In his return to SCCA SPEED GT, Bob Woodhouse (Dodge Viper) made up seven spots from his starting position to finish eighth. Michael McCann (Dodge Viper) and Jeff Courtney (Dodge Viper) completed the top ten.

NayKid Racing teammates Cindi Lux and Scotty B. White were both present in the Miller Motorsports Park podium ceremonies. Lux took home the Piloti Rookie of the Race Award for being the highest finishing rookie in the field in 13th and White was awarded the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing 12 positions in the race, from 27th to 15th.

Eric Curran continues to lead the SCCA SPEED GT Championship despite exiting the race early due to overheating issues, which was the result of some early race contact and damage to the nose of his Chevrolet Corvette. Curran now holds a five-point lead over Archer (84 to 79), Galati lies third with 75 points.

Chevrolet leads Cadillac in the SCCA SPEED GT Manufacturers' Championship, 24 to 16. Dodge follows with 12 points, then Porsche with 9.

The SCCA SPEED GT race at Miller Motorsports Park will be broadcast on SPEED Saturday, May 26 at 1:00 p.m. (EDT).

Round Four of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED GT Championship heads to Lowe's Motor Speedway on Thursday, May 24. The race will take place following NASCAR Nextel Cup Qualifying on CTC-Pole Night.

For all the latest news visit www.world-challenge.com.

Results from Saturday's 14-lap, 62.804-mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Three race, part of the 2007 Larry H. Miller Dealers Utah Grand at Miller Motorsports Park, with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps, distance behind winner and reason out (if any).

1. (1), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 14.
2. (3), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 14, -.577.
3. (4), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 14, -1.456.
4. (5), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 14, -1.596.
5. (6), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 14, -14.341.
6. (7), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 14, -15.974.
7. (12), Rob Foster(T), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 14, -19.452.
8. (15), Bob Woodhouse, Blair, Neb., Dodge Viper, 14, -21.816.
9. (10), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 14, -28.246.
10. (16), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 14, -28.663.
11. (14), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 14, -45.336.
12. (13), Ritch Marziale, Tempe, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 14, -52.796.
13. (17), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 14, -53.548.
14. (19), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 14, -55.086.
15. (27), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 14, -57.996.
16. (11), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 14, -1:11.024.
17. (18), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 14, -1:21.592.
18. (8), James Sofronas(T), Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 14, -1:22.214.
19. (21), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 14, -1:34.063.
20. (26), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 14, -1:52.052.
21. (9), Sonny Whelen(T), Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 14, -1:53.067.
22. (23), Thomas Glenn(R), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 14, -2:06.317.
23. (24), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Porsche 911, 14, -2:06.962.
24. (25), Eric Olberz(R), La Canada Flintridge, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 13, -1 lap.
25. (20), Tomy Drissi, Hollywood, Calif., Chevrolet Corvette, 12, Mech.
26. (2), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 3, Crash.
27. (22), Stu Frederick, Del mar, Calif., Dodge Viper, 3, Trans.

Time of race: 41 minutes, 58.722 seconds.
Average speed: 89.765 mph, Record
Margin of victory: 0.577-Second
Lap leaders: Laps 1-14, #5 Tommy Archer
Fastest race lap: #22 Randy Pobst, 2:57.759 (90.851 mph), Record
Fastest qualifier: #5 Tommy Archer, 2:54.986 (92.290 mph), Record
Sunoco Hard Charger: #3 Scotty B. White advanced 12 positions
B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race: #22 Randy Pobst pass for Second
Toyo Cup Winner: #17 Rob Foster
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #2 Cindi Lux

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Point Standings
Pos., Driver, Car, Points (Wins)
1, Eric Curran, Chevrolet Corvette, 84 (2)
2, Tommy Archer, Dodge Viper, 79 (1)
3, Michael Galati, Porsche 911 GT-3, 75
4, Andy Pilgrim, Cadillac CTS-V, 73
5, Lou Gigliotti, Chevrolet Corvette, 69
6, Lawson Aschenbach, Cadillac CTS-V, 68
7, Randy Pobst, Porsche 911 GT-3, 66
8, Doug Peterson, Chevrolet Corvette, 57
9, Rob Foster(T), Dodge Viper, 52
10, James Sofronas(T), Porsche 911 GT-3, 48

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER
Pos., Manufacturer, Points (Wins)
1, Chevrolet, 26 (2)
2, Cadillac, 16
3, Dodge, 12 (1)
4, Porsche, 9

Attached image: Driving the No. 5 MOPAR/Autohaus Motorsport Dodge Viper, Tommy Archer leads Lou Gigliotti, Doug Peterson and Randy Pobst at Miller Motorsports Park.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 5/19/07

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Altenburg Takes Second SPEED Touring Car Pole of Season in Uta

Fri, 18 May 2007 05:33:31 PST

Altenburg Takes Second SPEED Touring Car Pole of Season in Uta
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOOELE, Utah (May 18, 2007) Jeff Altenburg, of Ellicott City, Md., captured his second pole in-a-row at Miller Motorsports Park for Round Two of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED Touring Car Championship, part of the Larry H. Miller Dealerships Utah Grand Prix. Teammate Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., will start second, making it an all-Mazda front row.

The Tri-Point Mazda teammates who finished one-two at the season opener in Sebring wasted no time hooking up into a tight draft as the qualifying session commenced. When the pair came through on their first flyer it was Altenburg at the top of the timing screens with a 3:10.166 (84.923 mph), just 0.004-second ahead of Pobst. The time proved unbeatable and gave the No. 72 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6 pilot his third career-pole, although Altenburg admitted in the post-qualifying conference it wasn't what the team had planned.

"Randy [Pobst] and I have a deal where I pull him in one qualifying and he pulls me in the next," Altenburg said. "This was my turn to pull him so I had no delusions of getting the pole today. He seemed to be making ground on me, but in the last three or four turns is where I got it back. I just hung on by four thousandths."

Altenburg speculated why the SCCA SPEED Touring Car qualifying pace did not match that of last year's.

"All of our driving that we've done so far, the American LeMans Series cars have not been on the track, but last night and this morning they've been out, so this is the first time we've seen the track with all this American LeMans rubber on it. It seemed to have an effect on the car, but apparently not a positive one, because I went this fast yesterday afternoon. I've also found at this track that stickered tires aren't the godsend they are at other tracks."

Driving the No. 73 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6, Pobst will start alongside Altenburg on the grid Saturday, replicating the front row from Round One at Sebring. Pobst's fast time of 3:10.170 (84.922 mph) came on the same lap as Altenburg's pole winner.

BimmerWorld continues to have a banner weekend as Seth Thomas, of Cumming, Ga., earned his career-best starting position, putting his No. 38 BimmerWorld BMW 325i in the third spot with a time of 3:10.399 (84.819 mph).

A pair of RealTime Acuras complete the top five. Defending race winner at Miller Motorsports Park and reigning SCCA SPEED Touring Car Champion Pierre Kleinubing will start his No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura TSX fourth with a time of 3:10.889 (84.602 mph). Kuno Wittmer put his No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura RSX fifth on the grid with a 3:10.991 (84.556 mph).

RealTime team owner, Peter Cunningham sits just behind Kleinubing and Wittmer in sixth with his Acura TSX.

Chip Herr (Audi A4), Byron Smith (Dodge SRT-4), Brandon Davis (Acura TSX) and James Clay (BMW 325i) completed the top ten.

Saturday's Round Two SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car race is scheduled for 2:10 p.m. (MDT). The race will be broadcast on SPEED Saturday, May 26 at 1:00 p.m. (EDT).

For all the event news from Miller Motorsports Park as well as live timing and lap notes, visit www.world-challenge.com.

Starting lineup for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge race part of the 2007 Larry H. Miller Dealers Utah Grand at Miller Motorsports Park, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 3:10.166, 84.923.
2, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 3:10.170, 84.922.
3, (38), Seth Thomas, Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 3:10.399, 84.819.
4, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 3:10.889, 84.602.
5, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 3:10.991, 84.556.
6, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 3:11.025, 84.541.
7, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 3:11.244, 84.445.
8, (52), Byron Smith(R), Salt Lake City, Utah, Dodge SRT-4, 3:11.381, 84.384.
9, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 3:11.442, 84.357.
10, (36), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 3:11.611, 84.283.
11, (29), James Sofronas, Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 3:11.708, 84.240.
12, (34), Nick Esayian, Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 3:12.396, 83.939.
13, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 3:12.461, 83.911.
14, (19), Adam Pecorari, Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, 3:12.701, 83.806.
15, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 3:12.727, 83.795.
16, (8), Jason Martinelli, Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 3:12.861, 83.737.
17, (74), Roberto Santos, Clearwater, Fla., Mazda 6, 3:13.040, 83.659.
18, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 3:13.452, 83.481.
19, (4), Hal Brown(R), Blacksburg, Va., Dodge SRT-4, 3:14.472, 83.043.
20, (96), Charlie Putman, Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 3:14.990, 82.822.
21, (88), Andrie Hartanto, San Francisco, Calif., Honda Civic, 3:15.080, 82.784.
22, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 3:15.385, 82.655.
23, (30), Brad Sofronas, Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 3:17.092, 81.939.
24, (49), Branden Peterson, Breckenridge, Colo., Acura TSX, 3:25.460, 78.602.
25, (24), Jim Osborn, Ooltewah, N.J., Volkswagen Jetta TDI, no time.

Attached image: Polesitter and driver of the No. 72 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6, Jeff Altenburg.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 5/18/07

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Archer Nabs Pole, SPEED GT Track Record at Miller Motorsports Park

Fri, 18 May 2007 05:28:53 PST

Archer Nabs Pole, SPEED GT Track Record at Miller Motorsports Park
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOOELE, Utah (May 18, 2007) Tommy Archer, of Duluth, Minn., set a new series lap record at Miller Motorsports Park on his way to pole position for Round Three of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship, part of the Larry H. Miller Dealerships Utah Grand Prix. Eric Curran, of East Hampton, Mass., will start second.

It only took Archer one lap around the 4.486-mile, 24-turn road course to set his pole-winning time of 2:54.986, a new SCCA SPEED GT record at Miller Motorsports Park. Driving the No. 5 MOPAR/Autohaus Motorsport Dodge Viper, the pole is Archer's first of the season and sixth of his career.

"The run went fantastic," Archer said. "I worked the car real hard, really hard through the high speed right-hander, which looks like where I was making up most of my ground. We know what we want to do to our car. We tested it all day yesterday and we took a chance to go a little bit quicker today by changing something on the setup, because we knew qualifying was only going to be a one or two lap deal. We put it on the car and it worked.

"Tomorrow, I don't have launch control, so the start is going to be the hardest part for me. Then, on this track I don't know what the percentage is, but you've got to be 70 percent of the time in turns here, so it's really hard on tires even though the track is smooth. Consistency and being smooth will be important, but that's usually my driving style anyway, so I think I'll be okay."

Current point leader Curran will line-up next to Archer on the grid. Driving the No. 30 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette, Curran's time of 2:55.464 (92.039 mph) was also under the previous lap record, but was not enough to catch the Viper. Although Curran has won both races this season, he has yet to start on pole.

Defending race winner and holder of the previous track lap record, Lou Gigliotti, of Dallas, Texas, will start third for Saturday's race. The No. 28 LG Pro Long Tube Headers Chevrolet Corvette was quickest in yesterday's practice and found some more time in qualifying to turn in a lap of 2:55.844 (91.840 mph).

Sebring polesitter and Gigliotti teammate Doug Peterson, of Bonita Springs, Fla., will start fourth on the grid in his No. 87 3-Dimensional Services/LG Motorsports Chevrolet Corvette after clocking a 2:56.001 (91.758 mph). Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., completed the top five in his No. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 with a time of 2:56.673 (91.409 mph).

Michael Galati (Porsche 911 GT3), Lawson Aschenbach (Cadillac CTS-V), James Sofronas (Porsche 911 GT3), Sonny Whelen (Chevrolet Corvette) and Michael McCann (Dodge Viper) completed the top ten.

Saturday's 14-lap race is scheduled to commence at 9:45 a.m. (MDT). The race will be broadcast on SPEED, Sunday, May 27 at 5:00 p.m. (EDT).

For all the latest news, live timing and lap notes from Miller Motorsports Park, visit www.world-challenge.com

Starting lineup for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT race, part of the 2007 Larry H. Miller Dealers Utah Grand Prix at Miller Motorsports Park, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (5), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 2:54.986, 92.290.
2, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 2:55.464, 92.039.
3, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 2:55.844, 91.840.
4, (87), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 2:56.001, 91.758.
5, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 2:56.673, 91.409.
6, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 2:57.461, 91.003.
7, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 2:57.498, 90.984.
8, (14), James Sofronas, Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 2:57.679, 90.892.
9, (31), Sonny Whelen, Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 2:57.811, 90.824.
10, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 2:58.142, 90.655.
11, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 2:58.173, 90.640.
12, (17), Rob Foster, Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 2:58.233, 90.609.
13, (56), Ritch Marziale, Tempe, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 2:58.245, 90.603.
14, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 2:58.311, 90.569.
15, (13), Bob Woodhouse, Blair, Neb., Dodge Viper, 2:58.600, 90.423.
16, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 2:58.742, 90.351.
17, (2), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 2:58.888, 90.277.
18, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 2:59.281, 90.079.
19, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 3:01.320, 89.066.
20, (15), Tomy Drissi, Hollywood, Calif., Chevrolet Corvette, 3:01.615, 88.922.
21, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 3:01.639, 88.910.
22, (57), Stu Frederick, Del mar, Calif., Dodge Viper, 3:01.857, 88.803.
23, (55), Thomas Glenn(R), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 3:02.350, 88.563.
24, (24), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Porsche 911, 3:02.822, 88.335.
25, (29), Eric Olberz(R), La Canada Flintridge, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 3:03.772, 87.878.
26, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 3:04.373, 87.592.
27, (3), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 3:13.135, 83.618.

Attached image: Polesitter for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT race at Miller Motorsports Park, the No. 5 MOPAR/Autohaus Motorsport Dodge Viper of Tommy Archer.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 5/18/07

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BSI Racing: Readies for the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca

Fri, 18 May 2007 11:26:51 PST

BSI Racing: Readies for the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
By Lauren Liebowitz, BSI Racing

Monterey, CA - Wed, May 18 -- BSI and Team Garcia Racing are excited to be competing on the West Coast this Saturday, May 19 at the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. The majority of the BSI KONI Challenge Mazda MX-5 drivers are extremely familiar and comfortable with the twists and turns of the 2.2 mile track. In the No. 58 JustRacing.com MX-5 car, Northern California teammates Justin Hall and Magnus Karlsson have spent countless laps and hours on the hill top track. As for the drivers of the No. 56 Mazda/Joe Gibbs/ MOMO race car, Todd Buras has had a successful history at the race track finishing on the pole last year in an MX-5 Cup car, however; this will be teammate Carlos Garcia's first stint on the track.

The west coast track is a welcome change for drivers Hall and Karlsson. The drivers have history at Laguna Seca, unlike the previous three tracks the drivers have competed on this season. Both Hall and Karlsson have raced at Laguna Seca in the SCCA Regional SFR series. Hall has won both the SCCA San Francisco Region Pro Spec Miata Challenge Series and SCCA SFR Spec Miata Regional championships with many of the races taking place at Laguna Seca. Karlsson pretty much cut his racing teeth on the twisty turns of the Monterey race track, having competed in the 4 Hour RDC Illgen Enduro race at Laguna Seca last year. In an SCCA Regional race two weekends ago, Karlsson raced at Laguna Seca and had a top-10 finish out of a 50 plus field. Already after two practice sessions during the Promoter's Test Day this week, both drivers are feeling confident about their race day results.

Coming out of the two practice sessions on Thursday, the No. 56 ST car holds one of the fastest lap times of the day by Todd Buras. Buras didn't fight a learning curve while on the California track, he picked up right where he left off from last May's race. After the practice sessions Garcia was a fast learner on the Laguna track. Garcia and Buras will both have ample time at the track this weekend because they will also be racing in the MX-5 Cup Series. With twice the amount of time on track both drivers will have time to find the perfect line for the race.

BSI Racing appreciates support from MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development, KONI, Joe Gibbs Racing Oil, MOMO, SPEEDCOM Communications, BBS, Creative Motorsports Solutions, JustRacing.com and Sun Belt Performance Engines.

BSI Racing offers race car preparation, trackside support, fabrication, and parts for the Mazda MX-5. The race team will be campaigning Mazda MX-5 cars in the KONI Challenge Series and participating in the 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup.

For information on MX-5 rental and ownership programs, visit www.bsiracing.com

For information on Team Garcia visit: www.teamgarciaracing.com

Posted On 5/18/07

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Archer Fastest in SPEED GT Morning Practice at Miller Motorsports Park

Thu, 17 May 2007 02:47:05 PST

Archer Fastest in SPEED GT Morning Practice at Miller Motorsports Park
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOOELE, Utah (May 17, 2007) Tommy Archer, of Duluth, Minn., led the field in morning practice for Round Three of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship, part of the Larry H. Miller Dealerships Utah Grand Prix at Miller Motorsports Park. Doug Peterson, of Bonita Springs, Fla., and Eric Curran, of East Hampton, Mass., completed the top three.

Driving the No. 5 MOPAR/Autohaus Motorsport Dodge Viper, Archer's fast lap of 2:56.616 (91.439 mph), was more than 1.5 seconds quicker around the 4.486-mile, 24-turn road course than Peterson, but Archer was quick to play down the large deficit.

"Looking at last year's times, the pole is probably going to be in the 2:55's," Archer said. "But nobody wants to come out in the first practice session and go that fast. We went fast compared to what everybody else did, but I'm pretty sure if everyone else was going fast we probably wouldn't be the quickest car out there."

"This track is 4.4-miles and 24-turns, and there are lots of different types of turns. There's so much give and take that you have to decide which turns you want to give up to take the good ones. We're working on that right now. Last year we didn't have the greatest race here because of other issues and I'd like to come out of here with a good finish."

Peterson led a pack of six cars in the 2:58 range with a 2:58.130 (90.661 mph) behind the wheel of his No. 87 3-Dimensional Services/LG Motorsports Chevrolet Corvette.

Current point leader Curran finished the session third-quick in his No. 30 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette with a time of 2:58.194 (90.629 mph).

After pacing the SCCA SPEED Touring Car practice, Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., found himself fourth fastest in the SCCA SPEED GT morning practice. The No. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3 pilot turned a fast time of 2:58.212 (90.620 mph).

Lou Gigliotti, of Dallas, Texas, completed the top five in his No. 28 LG Pro Long Tube Headers Chevrolet Corvette with a time of 2:58.416 (90.516 mph).

The second SCCA SPEED GT practice session will take place this afternoon at 4:55 p.m. (MDT). Qualifying will commence at 11:30 a.m. (MDT) on Friday. Saturday's Round Three race is scheduled to go green at 9:45 a.m. (MDT).

For all the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge event coverage from Miller Motorsports Park, including live timing and lap notes, visit www.world-challenge.com.

Results from the first practice for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Round Three race, part of the 2007 Larry H. Miller Dealers Utah Grand Prix at Miller Motorsports Park, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (5), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 2:56.616, 91.439.
2, (87), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 2:58.130, 90.661.
3, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 2:58.194, 90.629.
4, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 2:58.212, 90.620.
5, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 2:58.416, 90.516.
6, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 2:58.560, 90.443.
7, (31), Sonny Whelen, Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 2:58.830, 90.307.
8, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 2:59.207, 90.117.
9, (14), James Sofronas, Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 2:59.542, 89.948.
10, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 2:59.699, 89.870.
11, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 2:59.752, 89.843.
12, (2), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 2:59.878, 89.780.
13, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 2:59.926, 89.757.
14, (56), Ritch Marziale, Tempe, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 2:59.935, 89.752.
15, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 3:00.028, 89.706.
16, (17), Rob Foster, Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 3:00.100, 89.670.
17, (13), Bob Woodhouse, Blair, Neb., Dodge Viper, 3:00.193, 89.624.
18, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 3:00.380, 89.531.
19, (55), Thomas Glenn(R), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 3:04.259, 87.646.
20, (29), Eric Olberz(R), La Canada Flintridge, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 3:04.622, 87.473.
21, (15), Tomy Drissi, Hollywood, Calif., Chevrolet Corvette, 3:05.606, 87.010.
22, (57), Stu Frederick, Del mar, Calif., Dodge Viper, 3:06.194, 86.735.
23, (24), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Porsche 911, 3:06.881, 86.416.
24, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 3:07.445, 86.156.
25, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 3:15.455, 82.625.
26, (3), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, no time.
27, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, no time.
28, (79), Joel Feinberg(R), Ft Lauderdale, Fla., Dodge Viper, no time.

Attached image: No. 5 MOPAR/Autohaus Motorsports Dodge Viper of Tommy Archer.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 5/17/07

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Tri-Point Leads the Way in Utah Morning Practice

Thu, 17 May 2007 02:41:33 PST

Tri-Point Leads the Way in Utah Morning Practice
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOOELE, Utah (May 17, 2007) Picking up where they left off at Sebring, Tri-Point teammates Randy Pobst of Gainesville, Ga., and Jeff Altenburg, of Ellicott City, Md., topped the time sheets in morning practice at Miller Motorsports Park for Round Two of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Championship, part of the Utah Grand Prix. Seth Thomas, of Cumming, Ga., was third fastest in the session.

Driving the No. 73 and No. 72 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6s, Altenburg and Pobst continued the momentum from their Sebring one-two finish at Miller Motorsports Park in morning practice. Pobst's time of 3:10.930 (84.583 mph) around the 4.486-mile, 24-turn road course was the fastest in the first of two practice sessions. Sebring winner Altenburg was not far behind, with a 3:11.079 (84.583 mph).

"Craig Nagler is a genius," Pobst said. "We made some discoveries at Sebring and you can see it in the results. The car has never handled better. It's fantastic and I love driving it."

Thomas got the BimmerWorld team's weekend off to a promising start, turning a 3:11.501 (84.331 mph) on his first hot lap. The time stuck for the remainder of the session and put the No. 37 BimmerWorld BMW 325i third-fastest on the time sheets.

Celebrating his 25th birthday today, Chip Herr, of Lititz, Penn., was fourth-quick in his No. 17 Cuturbus Audi/STaSIS/Clear Capital Audi A4, with a time of 3:12.327 (83.969 mph).

Reining SCCA SPEED Touring Car Champion Pierre Klienubing completed the top five. Turning a lap of 3:12.388 (83.942 mph) in his No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura TSX.

The second SCCA SPEED Touring Car practice session will take place this afternoon at 4:30 p.m. (MDT). Qualifying is schedule to take place Friday, May 18, at 11:30 a.m. (MDT).

For all the SCCA SPEED World Challenge news from Miller Motorsports Park, including live timing and lap notes, visit www.world-challenge.com.

Results from the first practice session for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED WORLD CHALLENGE Touring Car Round Two race, part of the 2007 Larry H. Miller Dealers Utah Grand Prix at Miller Motorsports Park, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 3:10.930, 84.583.
2, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 3:11.079, 84.518.
3, (38), Seth Thomas, Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 3:11.501, 84.331.
4, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 3:12.327, 83.969.
5, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 3:12.388, 83.942.
6, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 3:12.402, 83.936.
7, (36), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 3:12.446, 83.917.
8, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 3:12.491, 83.898.
9, (29), James Sofronas, Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 3:12.637, 83.834.
10, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 3:12.720, 83.798.
11, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 3:13.108, 83.629.
12, (74), Roberto Santos, Clearwater, Fla., Mazda 6, 3:13.200, 83.590.
13, (34), Nick Esayian, Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 3:13.987, 83.251.
14, (8), Jason Martinelli, Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 3:14.920, 82.852.
15, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 3:15.001, 82.818.
16, (88), Andrie Hartanto, San Francisco, Calif., Honda Civic, 3:16.146, 82.334.
17, (96), Charlie Putman, Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 3:16.877, 82.028.
18, (19), Adam Pecorari, Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, 3:17.095, 81.938.
19, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 3:17.728, 81.675.
20, (4), Hal Brown(R), Blacksburg, Va., Dodge SRT-4, 3:18.561, 81.333.
21, (30), Brad Sofronas, Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 3:21.383, 80.193.
22, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 3:21.498, 80.147.
23, (49), Branden Peterson, Breckenridge, Colo., Acura TSX, 3:27.603, 77.790.
24, (24), Jim Osborn, Ooltewah, N.J., Volkswagen Jetta TDI, no time.
25, (52), Byron Smith(R), Salt Lake City, Utah, Dodge SRT-4, no time.

Attached image: The No. 73 Mazda 6 of Randy Pobst.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 5/17/07

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Gigliotti Paces SPEED GT Practice at Miller Motorsports Par

Thu, 17 May 2007 11:21:55 PST

Gigliotti Paces SPEED GT Practice at Miller Motorsports Par
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOOELE, Utah (May 17, 2007) Defending race winner Lou Gigliotti, of Dallas, Texas, turned a lap quicker than his pole-winning time last year to top practice at Miller Motorsports for Round Three of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship, part of the Larry H. Miller Dealerships Utah Grand Prix. Tommy Archer, of Duluth, Minn., and Eric Curran, of East Hampton, Mass., were second and third quick respectively.

Putting on a fresh set of tires and laying all his cards on the table, Gigliotti set a time of 2:55.968 (91.775 mph) around the 24-turn, 4.486-mile track in his No. 28 LG Pro Long Tube Headers Chevrolet Corvette. The time is 0.264-second faster than his pole-winning time here last year and according to Gigliotti, is fastest he expects to be all weekend.

"That's all I got," Gigliotti said. "We stickered up, we went out, we did a qualifying lap and threw down the gauntlet. Everyone knows what my time is. I had the pole last year, so now they can have at it. If I qualify in the top five with that time tomorrow I'll be amazed. That's my time, that's all I can do. I hope I can beat it by one or two tenths tomorrow. I hope it's cooler in the morning and we get a better time, but that's as fast as I can go today.

Fastest in the morning session, Tommy Archer was unable to improve his time of 2:56.616 (91.439 mph) in the afternoon and fell to second fastest in his No. 5 MOPAR/Autohaus Motorsport Dodge Viper.

After leading much of the afternoon session, Curran was unable to match of the pace Gigliotti and Archer , ending his day third on the time sheets with a fast lap of 2:57.787 (90.836 mph) in his No. 30 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette.

Driving the No. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT3, Pobst was the fourth fastest car in SCCA SPEED GT practice with a time of 2:57.974 (90.741 mph). Following Pobst on the time sheets is Doug Peterson, of Bonita Springs, Fla., in the No. 87 3-Dimensional Services/LG Motorsports Chevrolet Corvette, who's lap of 2:58.130 (90.661 mph) from the morning session was good enough for fifth on the day.

Qualifying for Round Three of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship will take place tomorrow, May 18, at 11:30 a.m. (MDT). The 14-lap race is scheduled for Saturday, May 17, at 9:45 a.m. (MDT).

For all the event news from Miller Motorsports Park, including live timing and lap notes, visit www.world-challenge.com.

Combined practice results for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge race, part of the 2007 Larry H. Miller Dealers Utah Grand Prix at Miller Motorsports Park, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 2:55.968, 91.775.
2, (5), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 2:56.616, 91.439.
3, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 2:57.787, 90.836.
4, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 2:57.974, 90.741.
5, (87), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 2:58.130, 90.661.
6, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 2:58.240, 90.606.
7, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 2:58.560, 90.443.
8, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 2:58.700, 90.372.
9, (14), James Sofronas, Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 2:58.811, 90.316.
10, (31), Sonny Whelen, Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 2:58.830, 90.307.
11, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 2:58.930, 90.256.
12, (3), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 2:58.946, 90.248.
13, (13), Bob Woodhouse, Blair, Neb., Dodge Viper, 2:59.166, 90.137.
14, (17), Rob Foster, Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 2:59.283, 90.078.
15, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 2:59.651, 89.894.
16, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 2:59.715, 89.862.
17, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 2:59.752, 89.843.
18, (2), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 2:59.878, 89.780.
19, (56), Ritch Marziale, Tempe, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 2:59.935, 89.752.
20, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 3:01.801, 88.831.
21, (15), Tomy Drissi, Hollywood, Calif., Chevrolet Corvette, 3:02.636, 88.425.
22, (55), Thomas Glenn(R), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 3:03.681, 87.922.
23, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 3:04.245, 87.652.
24, (29), Eric Olberz(R), La Canada Flintridge, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 3:04.622, 87.473.
25, (57), Stu Frederick, Del mar, Calif., Dodge Viper, 3:04.684, 87.444.
26, (24), Robb Holland, Denver, Colo., Porsche 911, 3:04.839, 87.371.
27, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 3:05.568, 87.028.

Attached image: No. 28 Chevrolet Corvette of Lou Gigliotti
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 5/17/07

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Altenburg Keeps Mazda on Top in SPEED Touring Car Practice at Utah

Thu, 17 May 2007 11:13:50 PST

Altenburg Keeps Mazda on Top in SPEED Touring Car Practice at Utah
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOOELE, Utah (May 17, 2007) Jeff Altenburg, of Ellicott City, Md., led teammate Randy Pobst, of Gainesville, Ga., in practice at Miller Motorsports Park to keep Mazda on top for Round Two of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship, part of the Larry H. Miller Dealerships Utah Grand Prix. Pierre Kleinubing, of Coconut Creek, Fla., was third fastest on the day.

Altenburg led the late stages of the afternoon practice session in his No. 72 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6, but set his quickest lap, a 3:10.088 (84.958 mph), just before the checkered flag came out to end SCCA SPEED Touring Car practice for the day at the 4.486-mile, 24-turn road course.

"We were here a month ago testing, so we had plenty of time to figure out what we wanted to do," Altenburg said. "When you do that, you start out fast and every one else is catching up. The work this team has done analyzing the data and shock graphs, the drivability of the engine and the brakes; this car is on rails. This is the best handling car that we've ever had. It's going to take awhile for everyone to catch up, but for now we're the lucky ones."

Altenburg's Tri-Point Motorsports teammate Pobst was quickest in the morning session, but ended the day second fastest in his No. 73 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6 with a time of 3:10.240 (84.890 mph).

Reigning SCCA SPEED Touring Car Champion Pierre Kleinubing drove his No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Acura TSX to third on the practice sheets. Kleinubing found nearly two seconds in the afternoon session to post a 3:10.577 (84.740 mph).

Driving the No. 38 BimmerWorld BMW 325i, Seth Thomas, of Cumming, Ga., dropped a spot in the afternoon session to finish fourth-quick with a time of 3:10.587 (84.736 mph).

The third Tri-Point Motorsports entry of Roberto Santos completed the top five. Competing in his first SCCA SPEED World Challenge event, Santos entered a time of 3:11.064 (84.524 mph) in his No. 74 Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development Mazda 6.

Qualifying for Round Two of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship will take place tomorrow, May 18, at 11:55 a.m. (MDT). The 13-lap race is scheduled for Saturday, May 19, at 2:10 p.m. (MDT).

For all the latest news from Miller Motorsports Park, including live timing and lap notes, visit www.world-challenge.com

Combined practice results for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED WORLD CHALLENGE Touring Car race, part of the 2007 Larry H. Miller Dealers Utah Grand Prix at Miller Motorsports Park, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (72), Jeff Altenburg, Ellicott City, Md., Mazda 6, 3:10.088, 84.958.
2, (73), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Mazda 6, 3:10.240, 84.890.
3, (1), Pierre Kleinubing, Coconut Creek, Fla., Acura TSX, 3:10.577, 84.740.
4, (38), Seth Thomas, Cumming, Ga., BMW 325i, 3:10.587, 84.736.
5, (74), Roberto Santos, Clearwater, Fla., Mazda 6, 3:11.064, 84.524.
6, (42), Peter Cunningham, Grafton, Wis., Acura TSX, 3:11.072, 84.521.
7, (29), James Sofronas, Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 3:11.224, 84.453.
8, (43), Brandon Davis, Denver, Colo., Acura TSX, 3:11.349, 84.398.
9, (17), Chip Herr, Lititz, Pa., Audi A4, 3:11.356, 84.395.
10, (44), Kuno Wittmer, Montreal, Quebec, Acura RSX, 3:11.487, 84.337.
11, (52), Byron Smith(R), Salt Lake City, Utah, Dodge SRT-4, 3:11.502, 84.331.
12, (18), Ian Baas, Noblesville, Ind., Audi A4, 3:11.714, 84.238.
13, (36), James Clay, Blacksburg, Va., BMW 325i, 3:11.775, 84.211.
14, (97), Charles Espenlaub, Lutz, Fla., Mazda 6, 3:12.285, 83.987.
15, (34), Nick Esayian, Encinitas, Calif., Acura TSX, 3:12.599, 83.851.
16, (95), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Mazda 6, 3:12.718, 83.799.
17, (8), Jason Martinelli, Roxbury, Conn., BMW 325Ci, 3:13.477, 83.470.
18, (19), Adam Pecorari, Aspon, Pa., Audi A4, 3:14.444, 83.055.
19, (96), Charlie Putman, Denver, Colo., Mazda 6, 3:14.581, 82.996.
20, (88), Andrie Hartanto, San Francisco, Calif., Honda Civic, 3:14.582, 82.996.
21, (4), Hal Brown(R), Blacksburg, Va., Dodge SRT-4, 3:15.134, 82.761.
22, (92), Stan Wilson(R), Mount Juliet, Tenn., Dodge SRT-4, 3:17.728, 81.675.
23, (30), Brad Sofronas, Newport Beach, Calif., BMW 325Ci, 3:18.086, 81.528.
24, (49), Branden Peterson, Breckenridge, Colo., Acura TSX, 3:24.929, 78.805.

Attached image: The No. 72 Mazda 6 of Jeff Altenburg
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 5/17/07

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Robb Holland Makes Jump to SPEED GT in a Porsche

Thu, 17 May 2007 10:10:15 PST

Robb Holland Makes Jump to SPEED GT in a Porsche
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOOELE, Utah (May 17, 2007) - Robb Holland, of Denver, Colo., announced that he will contest the remainder of the 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship in a K-PAX Porsche 911 GT3. Holland will drive the third Porsche of the K-PAX/3R Racing effort, joining veteran drivers Michael Galati and Randy Pobst.

"I went to Long Beach and talked to some people about getting into a GT car and when Bob [Raub of 3R Racing] and Jim [Haughey of K-PAX Racing] heard about it we sat down and talked," said Holland of the move into SPEED GT. "They told me that they had a third Porsche and that they would love to have me run it with them!"

The move keeps Holland with both his existing sponsor Motorsports Gallery of Denver and the 3R Racing Team that fielded the Dodge SRT-4 Robb raced in the World Challenge Touring Car Series.

Holland's major sponsor is the Motorsports Gallery (www.MotorsportsGalleryUSA.com) a high-end performance car dealer in Denver, Colo., that sells everything from exotic street cars to shifter karts and driver apparel.

"If it has four wheels and a steering wheel, Motorsports Gallery does it and does it better than anyone," said Holland.

"This is definitely a step up in terms of the car and my team mates [Galati and Pobst], but I think that the level of competition was just as high in Touring Car as I expect it to be in GT," Holland said of the transition from Touring Car to GT.

After one test session and some test time today at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah, Holland indicated that it wasn't that big a deal going from the front-wheel drive Dodge to the rear-engined rear-drive Porsche, but admitted, "the hardest part is adjusting to a completely different driving style. I need to get away from the Touring Car mentality where it is all about momentum."

Robb Holland will join the K-PAX duo of Michael Galati and Randy Pobst as SCCA Pro Racing's SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Series begins Round Three at Miller Motorsports Park with practice on Thursday, May 17th.

The GT cars qualify on Friday, May 18 at 11:55 A.M. Mountain Time for Saturday's 50-minute sprint race, which is set to begin on Saturday, May 19 at 9:45 AM Mountain Time. The race will be broadcast on SPEED, Sunday, May 27th at 5:00 PM Eastern Time.

Attached image: Robb Holland and his new ride, the No. 24 Motorsports Gallery/K-PAX Racing/3R Porsche 911 GT3
Credit: Jim Bourn

Posted On 5/17/07

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Tire Changes, Inverted Restart Planned for SPEED GT Race at Charlotte

Wed, 16 May 2007 03:23:41 PST

Tire Changes, Inverted Restart Planned for SPEED GT Race at Charlotte
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (May 16, 2007) Race fans have an exceptional show in store for them at the upcoming Lowe's Motor Speedway race in Charlotte, N.C., May 24. The traditional standing start, tire changes, and an inverted rolling restart are all on the program and under the lights for Round Four of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship.

Although this is not the series' first visit to the legendary 1.5-mile oval, it will be a unique event in SCCA SPEED World Challenge history. Unlike the 2000 race at Lowe's Motor Speedway, the course used by the SCCA SPEED GT cars will not use the infield road course. Instead, the entire oval will be used with two chicanes, one on the front straight that incorporates the pit exit, and a chicane located on the back straight as well.

Beginning with the SCCA SPEED World Challenge trademark standing start, the race will be divided into two sessions, each lasting no longer than 20 minutes. Once the first session has been completed, the pace car will pick up the field and escort them into pitlane. There, teams will change all four tires and make adjustments. All the work must be completed in five minutes and refueling will not be permitted.

During this intermission period, a ceremony will be held involving the "wheel of inversion" to determine the restart order. Numbered with positions one through five, the number that is landed on will indicate the position of the car that will make the restart in first place. If the wheel lands on one, there will be no inversion.

For the second session, cars will be lined-up in their order before the intermission, plus any inversion, and lapped cars will be placed at the back. The second session will commence with a double-file rolling restart.

"This is going to be the most thrilling race we've ever had on CTC Pole Night at Lowe's Motor Speedway," track President and General Manager H.A. "Humpy" Wheeler said. "Seeing these Vipers, Corvettes, BMWs and Porsches under the lights at a superspeedway will be spectacular. Just the thought of these automobiles makes people passionate---imagine what seeing them race after Cup qualifying will do. It's going to be a rush for every fan that comes through the gates."

Further fueling the anticipation leading up to the event, SCCA SPEED GT regulars will be joined by two NASCAR Nextel Cup stars; defending Nextel Cup Champion Jimmie Johnson and 2004 Rookie of the Year Kasey Kahne.

The race will air on SPEED, Saturday, June 2 at 4:00 p.m. (EDT). Fans can also log onto www.world-challenge.com for live timing and lap notes.

The series races this Saturday, May 19, at Miller Motorsports Park in Utah.

Attached image: The SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT teams tested at Lowe's Motor Speedway this past March. Kasey Kahne will drive the No. 13 Dodge Viper pictured.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 5/16/07

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NASCAR Star Kasey Kahne Added to SPEED GT Entry List at Charlotte

Mon, 14 May 2007 09:49:22 PST

NASCAR Star Kasey Kahne Added to SPEED GT Entry List at Charlotte
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (May 14, 2007) Not one, but two NASCAR Nextel Cup stars will drive in the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT race at Lowe's Motor Speedway this month. Woodhouse Performance have announced that Evernham Motorsports driver Kasey Kahne will drive the No. 13 Dodge Viper in Charlotte. This follows the announcement in March that defending NEXTEL Cup Champion Jimmie Johnson will drive a Cadillac CTS-V at the same event.

Kahne, driver of the No. 9 Dodge Dealers/UAW Dodge for Evernham Motorsports, has competed in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series for the last three years. He has accumulated seven-career NEXTEL Cup Series wins, 30 top-five and 42 top-10 finishes and earned Rookie of the Year honors in 2004. Last season, he won six races and secured a spot in NASCAR's Chase for the NEXTEL Cup. He finished eighth in the driver point standings, completing his most successful year to date. Kahne is one of NASCAR's most well-known drivers and is considered a superstar in the series.

"This is a neat opportunity to better myself as a road course racer," Kahne said. "With the upcoming races at Sonoma and Watkins Glen, it gives me a chance to learn more about this style of driving. I appreciate Ray Evernham giving me the opportunity to participate and have some fun at the same time."

Currently competing in its fifth season of SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT, Woodhouse Performance runs the No. 99 Kenda Tire/Pro MPI Dodge Viper of Jeff Courtney and the No. 13 Kicker/Woodhouse Performance Dodge Viper of Brian Smith, who will step aside at Charlotte to let Kahne take the wheel. For Team Owner Bob Woodhouse, the benefits of having Kahne in the car stretch beyond the Woodhouse Performance team.

"A lot of NASCAR fans have no clue what the SCCA SPEED World Challenge series is," Woodhouse said. "Having Kasey in the series gives them a chance to learn. On the flip side, World Challenge competitors get to learn from the masters, how they make a really great show."

"To have Jimmie Johnson and now Kasey Kahne racing with us at Charlotte is fantastic," SCCA Pro Racing President Bob Wildberger said. "When two NASCAR Nextel Cup stars want to go SCCA SPEED World Challenge racing, it speaks volumes about the excitement and competitiveness of our series. I think the fans at Lowe's Motor Speedway are going to get a real thrill watching Jimmie and Kasey go head-to-head with our series regulars."

The SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT Championship will take to the banks of Lowe's Motor Speedway for CTC Pole Night, Thursday, May 24, part of the Coca-Cola 600 weekend. Teams will have two morning practice sessions on the oval modified with chicanes on the front and back straight, before qualifying at 12:15 p.m. (EDT). The 50-minute race, Round Four on the ten-race schedule, will go green at 8:45 p.m. following NASCAR Nextel Cup Qualifying.

The race will air on SPEED, Saturday, June 2 at 4:00 p.m. (EDT), with rebroadcasts on Sunday, June 3 at 4:00 a.m. and Wednesday June 6 at 2:00 p.m.

For full event coverage from Charlotte including live timing and lap notes, log onto www.world-challenge.com.

Attached image: Kasey Kahne
Credit: CIA Stock Photo

Posted On 5/14/07

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Toyo Cup Added to SPEED World Challenge Prizes

Thu, 10 May 2007 04:18:00 PST

Toyo Cup Added to SPEED World Challenge Prizes
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (May 10, 2007) For SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge competitors, a new prize, the Toyo Cup, has been introduced to recognize those drivers who make tremendous contributions to the series while sharing their time with another profession.

The Toyo Cup awards a $250 Toyo Tires credit at each race to the highest finishing driver enrolled in the program, who will also be acknowledged in the winner's circle ceremonies and in the post-race media coverage. In addition, the Toyo Cup drivers in SCCA SPEED GT and SPEED Touring Car who accumulate the most points over the course of the season will be recognized with an award at the SCCA SPEED World Challenge year-end award ceremony.

The Toyo Cup program is designed for those drivers who do not rely on racing as a sole occupation. To enroll in the Toyo Cup program, drivers must submit an application to SCCA Pro Racing for approval by series officials.

"As a long-time partner of SCCA SPEED World Challenge, Toyo Tires understands the sacrifices many racers make just to get to the track," Toyo Tires Senior Director of Marketing Steve Hutchinson said. "With the Toyo Cup, we show our appreciation for those drivers who may not make the headlines, but are crucial to a successful race weekend with their heartfelt performance on the track."

"The Toyo Cup is in place to recognize a group of drivers dedicated to the enrichment of our series," SCCA Pro Racing President Bob Wildberger said. "We've created a competition inside a competition for those drivers who remain dedicated to SCCA Pro Racing, while also pursuing other occupations, and who unselfishly contribute their time and resources every weekend, in the name of racing. These are the unsung heroes of our series."

Toyo Tires has been the official tire of SCCA SPEED World Challenge since 2001. This season, the SPEED GT and SPEED Touring Cars will attack each track on Toyo Proxes RA1 tires.

The first Toyo Cup awards will be handed out next weekend, May 17-19, at Miller Motorsports Park for the Larry H. Miller Dealerships Utah Grand Prix Presented by The Grand and Little America Hotels. The SCCA SPEED Touring Car race will be broadcast Saturday, May 26 at 1:00 p.m. (EDT) on SPEED. The SCCA SPEED GT race is scheduled to air Sunday, May 27 at 5:00 p.m. (EDT), also on SPEED.

To learn more about SPEED World Challenge visit www.world-challenge.com.

Attached image: All SCCA SPEED World Challenge Teams use Toyo Tires.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 5/10/07

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Swift Springs to Support Hankook US Touring Car Championship Teams

Thu, 10 May 2007 04:09:56 PST

Swift Springs to Support Hankook US Touring Car Championship Teams
By Ali Arsham, USTCC

Ontario, CA (April 18, 2007) -- Swift Springs USA, located in Ontario, California, has joined the Hankook US Touring Car Championship (USTCC) for the remainder of the 2007 race season as a contingency sponsor. Swift Springs USA will be awarding the eligible winner of every race with a pair of coilover springs. Swift Springs will also offer a racer discount on coilover springs to all USTCC teams. To be eligible to win, the team must be running Swift Springs decals on their car during the race.

"Swift has covered touring car racing all over the world and the US is one of our biggest markets. The USTCC is a great venue for Swift and fits our marketing plans perfectly," said Yas Uchida, President of Swift USA.

Swift Springs was founded in 1997, a division of the Tokyo Hatsujo Spring Corporation which was founded in 1924. Their first-hand involvement within the race industry has propelled Swift quickly through the ranks of some of the world's most reputable races. Swift Springs has quickly become one of the most recognized and respected names in performance coil springs in many genre of motor sports throughout the world. In 2004, Team Goh Audi R8 won 1st place at the world renowned Le Mans 24hrs race on swift springs.

For more information visit www.swiftsprings.com or www.ustcc.com.

About USTCC: The USTCC is a professional road racing series comprising of late model sport compact sedans such as BMW 3 series, Acura RSX, Ford Focus, Honda Civic and Subaru WRX. The series is sanctioned by the National Auto Sport Association (a href="http://www.nasaproracing.com" target=blank>www.nasaproracing.com). The cars use slightly modified engines and highly modified suspensions with aerodynamic ground effects and sticky Hankook race tires. The series visits some of the finest racing facilities in the United States such as Infineon Raceway, Mid Ohio, Road America and others. More information on USTCC can be obtained at www.ustcc.com.

Posted On 5/10/07

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Simmons/Bovenberg Score Win at the Hankook United States Touring Car Championship at Infineon Raceway

Wed, 09 May 2007 04:04:06 PST

Simmons/Bovenberg Score Win at the Hankook United States Touring Car Championship at Infineon Raceway
By Rick Nannini, USTCC

Richmond, CA The Simmons/Bovenbeerg team scored their latest win at the latest stop in the 2007 Hankook United States Touring Car Championship (USTCC) which took place at the world famous Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, California on May 6, 2007. After a convincing victory at the first round of the 2007 USTCC at Thunderhill Raceway, Curt Simmons was looking for a repeat this weekend in his Sunnyvale Dodge SRT-4 and after some problems managed to do just that.

Qualifying on Saturday placed Simmons' Dodge on pole position, but due to a family event on Sunday Simmons would not be able to drive. So team boss, Pete Bovenberg got behind the wheel for the race on Sunday, after his Auto Source Motoring/PPG Honda Civic suffered mechanical problems during practice. Qualifying second was Andrew Gillis in his STWA Performance/ McLeod Ind/ B&M/ Supertech performance Ford Focus. Gillis looked very fast all weekend and looked primed to get his first podium finish in the Hankook United States Touring Car Championship.

Third on the grid was the Gogogear.com/Hasport Acura Integra of Rich Woo. Woo was also strong during practice and qualifying and looked for a good result.

The race stated with the traditional USTCC standing start. Bovenberg got a great jump off the line in his Dodge and was followed closely up the hill by the Gogogear.com/Konig Wheels Honda Civic Si of Ali Arsham and then by Andrew Gillis in his Focus.

Gillis spun the tires off the start, but was on the move in the opening lap. By the time the group hit turn 10 Gillis made a pass on Arsham's Civic and had his sights on Bovenberg SRT-4. The battle in the back of the pack was heating up as well. The big battle behind was between Woo's Integra, Niki Tam (Acutech Honda Integra-R), and Andy Chittum in the LeMans Karting BMW 328ti.

As the group caught up to traffic the battle for first started to heat up. Gillis' Focus was able to catch Bovenberg in turn 7 and they went side by side through turn 8 until Andrew had to give way being on the outside in turn nine. Arsham was running in third place behind the pair and but with three laps to go had to pit for a bad spark plug wire.

One lap later Gillis would receive a mechanical black flag for excessive noise on the Focus. Gillis quickly came into the pits and the crew fixed the car and he went back out. While all this was happening Bovenberg built a large lead in his Dodge that he never relinquished, which made it back to back wins for MBO Racing Team. Woo managed to score his first podium finish after many years of trying. Gillis managed to finish in third place due to the fast work of his crew.

This was the first time that Woo and Gillis have ever finished on the podium. Woo started from third place but dropped back to fifth place early on. But he never gave up and made crucial passes and took advantage of others' problems. Woo was extremely happy to be on the podium and hopes that this will be a more frequent event.

Gillis was also pleased with his result. The team fought hard through problems all weekend and was happy to be on the podium for the first time. It was also a good points day for Gillis who moved into third place in the championship points.

Niki Tam in the Acutech Honda Integra R took the A'Pex Integration Top Rookie award with his eighth place finish. Tam also won the LeMans Karting Fremont Driver Improvement award.

Andy Chittum in the LeMans Karting Fremont BMW 328ti won the G-Tech Pro G-Move of the Race award with his

The next round of the 2007 Hankook United States Touring Car Championship will take place back at Thunderhill Raceway where the racers will have to run an endurance style race of 60 minutes with a mandatory pit stop and refueling will be part of the test. These new elements will put not only the driver, but the crews to the test.

Posted On 5/9/07

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MX-5 Cup Driver Smrz Loses Portion of Leg in Off-Track Incident

Tue, 08 May 2007 01:01:25 PST

MX-5 Cup Driver Smrz Loses Portion of Leg in Off-Track Incident
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

TOPEKA, Kan. (May 7, 2007) SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup driver, Brett Smrz, of Coeur d'Alene, Id., underwent surgery to amputate the lower portion of his left leg Saturday, following an injury sustained while jumping on a trampoline.

The break was severe enough to sever the main artery and nerve to the 16-year-old's left foot and after 20 hours in surgery, the doctors determined the leg required amputation in order to save the young racer's life. On Saturday, May 5, doctors successfully removed a section of Smrz' left leg, up to his knee. He will require several more surgeries this week, but is reported to be stable and in good spirits.

"We have been in close contact with Brett and his family and Brett's commitment to getting back behind the wheel of a racecar is unwavering," MER team representative Marc Miller said. "We are committed to help make that a reality and our entire team is behind Brett and his family 100 percent. We hope to have him testing as soon as his physical therapist clears him and ready for at least the last race at Miller Motorsports Park (in September). Knowing him, he will bounce back stronger than ever and we will be there to facilitate that."

"Everyone at SCCA Pro Racing is pulling for Brett," SCCA Pro Racing President Bob Wildberger said. "He's a great talent with a bright future ahead of him. As strong-willed as he's proven to be on the track, it appears he's even more determined to make it through this."

Smrz burst onto the MX-5 Cup scene in April at the series season-opener in Houston, Texas, where he captured the pole in his first car race. Smrz, who only turned 16 in February, went on to finish third in his debut.

Posted On 5/8/07

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Formula TR Willow Springs - Rounds 5 & 6 - Complete

Mon, 07 May 2007 03:51:59 PST

Formula TR Willow Springs - Rounds 5 & 6 - Complete
By Mike Mills, ADZEN

Those who took part in the Formula TR test day on Wednesday were very thankful they did as Friday's weather which was forecasted to have winds arrived with gale force winds of 40-60 mph. Saturday was better with the winds subsiding to 15-25 mph and finally Sunday with normal gusts of 5-15 mph.

Saturdays round 5 of the 2007 Formula TR Championship found the first three 1600 qualifiers within four tenths of a second. For the first time the series had two female drivers participating, Kristen Braun and Kerstin Smutny. Smutny returned after missing Rounds 4 & 5 due to mechanical woes. On the poll for the 1600's, as he has been all season, was Sergio Pena in his JP Motorsports #58 machine with a very quick time of 1:24.385. Pena was followed by Joshua Goshen in his Goshen Racing #83 by less than 1/10 of a second at 1:24.466 and Kristin Braun in her Kimball Williams Racing #70 just over 3/10's back at 1:24.771. The race was sure to be close.

The 11 two liter cars saw Bill Goshen take the poll in his Goshen Racing #82 set the quickest time of the weekend in the very windy conditions at 1:16.8, the only sub 1:17 lap recorded in competition all weekend. Liam Kenney in his Liam Kenney Motorsports #95 was less than 2/10's behind at 1:17.000. Rounding out the top three qualifiers was Luis Martinez Jr. in his Position One Motorsports #3 with a quick time of 1:18.136.

The 1600 race saw a tight race between Pena, Booth and Joshua Goshen with Pena staying firmly in the lead. The race between the ladies, Braun and Smutny, was exciting as they diced throughout the race, Smutny having taken the advantage on the start and maintaining it until late in the race when they were being lapped by the second place 2 liter car of Luis Martinez Jr. when all three left the racing surface.

Bill Goshen held his poll position for the first six laps unfortunately he suffered a mechanical failure and surrendered the lead to Liam Kenney. Jeremy Braun in his #50 Goshen Racing entry moved to third at the start and held off Luis Martinez Jr. until lap 8.

The 12 racing lap proved to be the last lap of the race when three cars departed the racing surface at turn 4. Luis Martinez Jr. in his 2 liter car was approaching Smutny and Kirstin Braun in their 1600's to lap them when all three cars slid off the track without contact. The cars were high centered, unable to continue, and in a unsafe location. The pace car was dispatched and a tow truck. Before the pace car finished the lap it was recognized that the track would be blocked by the tow truck so the field was led into the pits. The time for the race expired before the track was cleared bringing Round 5 of the Formula TR Championship of an end with Sergio Pena and John Knudsen still on top of the series points standings in their respective classes but with Liam Kenney and Ryan Booth charging forward.

Everyone was looking forward to Round 6 on Sunday, the winds had returned to normal and everyone was comfortable with the track. Qualifying for the 1600's found Sergio Pena in his JP Motorsports #58 on the poll at 1:24.295, a few 100ths faster than the previous day with Ryan Booth in his Knudsen Racing #4 less than 3/10ths behind and Joshua Goshen in the Goshen Racing #83 third on the grid.

The 2 liter drivers threw down the gauntlet with Liam Kenney, Liam Kenney Racing #95, taking the poll with the time of 1:17.574 and Bill Goshen, Goshen Racing #82, on the outside of row one with a time of 1:17.656. Luis Martinez Jr., Position One Motorsports #3, was third quickest with a 1:18.234.

On the second lap Braun and Smutny touched in turn 3 with Braun spinning off followed by Joshua Goshen who had no where to go. Both 1600's were not able to continue and the pace car and tow truck were dispatched. There were four pace car laps with the green flying at the beginning of lap 6. Ryan Booth, Knudsen Racing #4, waited patiently until the white flag lap where he executed the textbook drafting pass of Segio Pena, JP Motorsports #58, at the entrance of turn 1 to take the lead which he held on to for the win. Sergio Pena finished in second and Felice Snider, JP Motorsports #85, took third.

Liam Kenney dominated the 2000's in the Round 6 race. From the intial green flag he was able to open up a several car length lead over Jeremy Braun. The restart saw Liam do it again, opening up several lengths over second place. The start found Bill Goshen out positioned, falling to fourth but the on the restart he and Luis Martinez Jr. moving ahead of Jeremy Braun and then he moved ahead of Martinez just a lap later to second where he finished. The dicing was not over and Martinez position over Braun was short lived and after three laps Braun regained third which as also his finishing position.

The series points battle tightens after these six rounds. In the 1600's Sergio Pena is ahead by Ryan Booth is coming on strong and Felice Snider is demonstrating that consistency has its rewards. In the 2000 Series championship John Knudsen still leads with Bill Goshen and Luis Martinez Jr. just behind and Liam Kenney is making a strong move. With 14 rounds to go each series championship is far from being decided.

The next event for the 2007 Formula TR Pro Championship is June 2-3, 2007 with rounds 7 & 8 on the infield course at California Speedway. Just a week later, June 9-10, rounds 9 & 10 will be contested at Buttonwillow Raceway.

About Formula TR
Formula TR (Tatuus Renault) provides a development series for young drivers progressing from karting into professional formula car racing as early as age 14. The series was established in 2002 and features both 1600cc and 2000cc carbon fiber open wheel chassis built by Tatuus and powered by Renault. The series consists of 20 races conducted over 10 weekends at tracks throughout the western US. Visit www.FormulaTR.com for more information.

About Adzen
Adzen is a motor sport marketing and management company which provides marketing support for drivers, series, and events as well as website design and update services. Learn more about Adzen at www.Adzen.biz.

Posted On 5/7/07

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Formula TR 2007 Championship Resumes - Rounds 5 and 6

Mon, 30 Apr 2007 03:52:33 PST

Formula TR 2007 Championship Resumes - Rounds 5 and 6
By Mike Mills, ADZEN

The 2007 Formula TR Championship Series resumes this weekend after a six week hiatus with Rounds 5 and 6 on May 5 and 6 at Willow Springs International Raceway in Rosamond, CA. While Sergio Pena iscurrently leading the 1600 Series and John Knudsen is on top in the 2000 Series there are still 16 rounds of competition remaining which means everyone in the series still has a chance at the titles. It promises to be an excellent week in the high desert of Southern California.

Series competitors have two testing opportunities at the Willow Springs circuit this week in preparation to resume the series this weekend. Formula TR has an exclusive test day for series participants on Wednesday and the track has open testing scheduled for Friday. Steve Henry, series owner and chief steward explains, "We have two test days scheduled this week principally because the open testing on Friday does not allow drivers under the age of 15 and a half due to insurance restrictions. We will have scheduled the Wednesday test day and will use our insurance to ensure that the younger drivers in the series have the opportunity to test on this very quick circuit."

While Formula TR has not seen action for several weeks several of its alumni have been very busy and doing well. Darryl O'Young was tenth in the opening round of the Porsche Super Cup Series in Bahrain; Brad Coleman took the poll and finished 9th in the Busch Series race at Talladega; Colin Braun secured the poll with a new lap record and finished second in the Grand American Rolex Series at VIR; and Carl Skerlong convincingly took 2nd in his third Champ Car Atlantic start on the streets of Houston.

About Formula TR
Formula TR (Tatuus Renault) provides a development series for young drivers progressing from karting into professional formula car racing as early as age 14. The series was established in 2002 and features both 1600cc and 2000cc carbon fiber open wheel chassis built by Tatuus and powered by Renault. The series consists of 20 races conducted over 10 weekends at tracks throughout the western US. Visit www.FormulaTR.com for more information.

About Adzen
Adzen is a motor sport marketing and management company which provides marketing support for drivers, series, and events as well as website design and update services. Learn more about Adzen at www.Adzen.biz.

Posted On 4/30/07

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Malkhassian Earns First Win in MX-5 Cup Thriller at Road Atlanta

Sat, 28 Apr 2007 03:41:15 PST

Malkhassian Earns First Win in MX-5 Cup Thriller at Road Atlanta
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

BRASELTON, Ga. (April 28, 2007) Ara Malkhassian, of Sonoma, Calif., played the waiting game perfectly and captured his first career-win in the final corner at Road Atlanta for Round Two of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup, part of the 30th Anniversary Walter Mitty Challenge. Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, and Eric Foss, of Braselton, Ga. completed the podium.

Starting fourth on the grid for Saturday's 26-lap, 66.04-mile race, Malkhassian immediately improved to third on the opening lap and quickly chased down the Team MER cars of Saini and Foss. Malkhassian held down the third-place position in his No. 11 Alara Racing Mazda MX-5 for 18 laps, before making his move around Foss for second. Malkhassian then set to work on then-leader Saini, but an attempt for the lead in Turn One cost Malkhassian enough speed to send him back to third.

After that, Malkhassian opted for a more conservative approach, which paid off big on the final lap. As Saini and Foss got a little carried away going into Turn Ten, Malkhassian was able to maintain his racing line and carry more speed up the hill. The trio crested Turn 11 three-wide, but Malkhassian clearly had momentum on his side and swept through the final corner ahead of Foss and Saini to take the checkered flag.

"We were pretty even the whole race," Malkhassian said. "I was a little bit better on some parts of the track and they were a little bit better in others. When it came down to them battling, going into the last corner, I just dropped back and took the opportunity to drive past them. Patience paid off today.

"It was definitely difficult [racing against teammates]. I got past both of them at one point, but the power of the draft here at Road Atlanta made it so they were able to draft right past me going into Turn Ten. I could have probably battled for second at the time, but the wise move was to wait, and wait, and wait the whole race, and then it came. I can't thank DriverSource.com and Redline Racing enough for their support and helping us get the win today."

In addition to the win, Malkhassian earned the Hawk Hot Lap award for setting the fastest lap of the race, a 1:41.648 (89.957 mph), around the 12-turn, 2.54 mile road course.

Round One winner Saini tried to work with MER teammate and fellow front-row starter Eric Foss to open a gap on Malkhassian, but found it difficult to shake the Alara car.

"We tried to get away from Ara, but that just wasn't happening," Saini said. "Everytime we'd make a little mistake he'd be right back with us. Then he'd make a little mistake and we'd get a gap, but then he'd catch right back up. For a while there we were running every lap just about the same lap time, but Ara drove awesome. He made no mistakes and we couldn't get away, so we tried to hold him off as best we could."

Saini did earn a point for most laps led in his No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/Saferacer.com Mazda MX-5 and held the largest lead of the day while Foss and Malkhassian fought for second, but missed out by 0.292-second on leading the most important lap of all.

"[Foss and Malkhassian] started battling and I thought I'd be in the clear for a little while. I got a second and a half ahead of them, but then they got back in line and caught right back up to me.

"Hats off to the whole MER team and Mazda, SIRIUS and Kumho for putting this series together. It's the most fun you can have in a race car. There isn't any racing closer than this, everybody is equal and it shows."

Polesitter Foss led early at Road Atlanta in his No. 25 TeamMER/saferacer.com Mazda MX-5, but had his hands full when he fell back to second, trying to keep pace with teammate Saini, while defending his position from Malkhassian.

"Early on, the three of us were able to break away," Foss said. "Once we broke away Jason and I tried to work together a little bit, but we quickly realized that we weren't going to shake Ara, so we just tried to establish a good pace.

"On that last lap it was gloves off. Coming down into Ten, Jason and I went for it and we both got in a little too deep. I wouldn't say we handed it to Ara, but we made it a little easier for him. He definitely deserves it though, he did an awesome job.

"Team MER did a great job this weekend. MX-5 Cup is a riot. Everything about the car was awesome. I had some private sponsorship and I really appreciate those people helping me out. My family was here and it was great to race at Road Atlanta and finish on the podium."

Driving the No. 30 TeamMER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5, Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., crossed the start-finish line at the head of a five-car pack battling for fourth. He just edged the No. 58 BSI/Team Garcia/MOMO/Joe Gibbs Mazda MX-5 of Andrew Carbonell, of Miami, Fla., who finished fifth in his MX-5 Cup debut.

Pratt Cole, Mark Pombo, Todd Buras, Donna Gilio, and Barry Fromberg completed the top ten.

Saini maintained his lead in the Championship and now sits 13 points ahead of Malkhassian (63-50). They are followed by Cole with 41 points, Matt Cross with 37 and Brett Smrz with 35.

Round Three of the MX-5 Cup will take place at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, May 18-20, as part of the U.S. Sports Car Invitational.

For more information about the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup, visit www.mx-5cup.com.

Attached image: MX-5 Cup Round Two podium from Road Atlanta
Credit: SCCA/Jimmy Sykes

Results from Saturday's 26-lap, 66.04-mile SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Two race, part of the 30th Anniversary Walter Mitty Challenge at Road Atlanta with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps and reason out (if any).

1. (4), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 26.
2. (2), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 26, -.292.
3. (1), Eric Foss, Braselton, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 26, -.481.
4. (3), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 26, -20.666.
5. (7), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 26, -20.961.
6. (8), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 26, -21.259.
7. (5), Mark Pombo, Duluth, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 26, -23.735.
8. (18), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 26, -34.038.
9. (17), Donna Gilio, Carson City, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 26, -41.296.
10. (12), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 26, -41.562.
11. (11), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 26, -51.459.
12. (15), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 26, -53.528.
13. (13), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 26, -1:02.197.
14. (22), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 26, -1:11.751.
15. (19), Forest Barber, Forth Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 26, -1:27.572.
16. (23), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 26, -1:33.242.
17. (24), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 26, -1:35.639.
18. (20), Brett Smrz, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Mazda MX-5, 26, -1:40.103.
19. (21), Rick Bellew, Mobline, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 25, -1 lap.
20. (26), Steve Bottom, Newport Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 25, -1 lap.
21. (6), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 20, Mechanical.
22. (16), Patrick Sandlin, Memphis, Tenn., Mazda MX-5, 16, Mechanical.
23. (25), Laura Olson, Costa Mesa, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 12, Gravel Trap.
24. (9), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 8, Mechanical.
25. (10), Randy Hale III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 8, Accident.
26. (14), Mike Gatto, Atlanta, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 6, Mechanical.
27. (27), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 0, DNS.

Time of race: 44 minutes, 34.667 seconds.
Average speed: 88.887 mph
Margin of victory: .292 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-1, #25 Eric Foss; laps 2-2, #28 Jason Saini; laps 3-13, #25 Eric Foss; laps 14-25, #28 Jason Saini; laps 26-26, #11 Ara Malkhassian
Fastest race lap: #11 Ara Malkhassian, 1:41.648 (89.957 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #25 Eric Foss, 1:41.461 (90.123 mph)

Posted On 4/28/07

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Foss On MX-5 Cup Pole at Road Atlanta

Fri, 27 Apr 2007 03:35:09 PST

Foss On MX-5 Cup Pole at Road Atlanta
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

BRASELTON, Ga. (April 27, 2007) Setting the pole time on his first lap, Eric Foss, of Braselton, Ga., captured pole for tomorrow's SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup race at Road Atlanta, part of the 30th Anniversary Walter Mitty Challenge. Round One winner Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, will start second.

Road Atlanta driving instructor Foss wasted no time in MX-5 Cup qualifying, setting a lap of 1:41.461 (90.123 mph) in his first hot lap around the 2.54-mile scenic road course. It was a time Foss himself spent the rest of the session chasing in his No. 25 Team MER/Saferacer.com Mazda MX-5.

"I have a lot of laps here," Foss said. "I work at the [Panoz Driving] school. Problem is, I sometimes do a good lap and then I try too hard to beat it and it's always slower. The car felt really good. Team MER has done a good job and I'm really happy with where we're going. Top five would have made me happy, but pole makes me ecstatic.

"The cars are a blast to drive. It's a little different than Spec Miatas. I'm having a little trouble on the brakes and I did have a spin in the session, which I'm not too proud of. But we're gonna get it right, make some more changes for the race and see how it goes."

Winner a week ago at Houston, Saini put his No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/Saferacer.com Mazda MX-5 outside the front row with a time of 1:41.892 (89.742 mph). Saini spent most of the session in the 1:42 range, but was able to find enough speed in the closing laps to move ahead of teammate Andrew Caddell on the grid.

Driving the No. 30 Team MER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5, Caddell, of Graham, Wash., will start third for tomorrow's 45-minute race. Caddell sat in second for the majority of the qualifying session with a time of 1:42.049 (89.604 mph), but for the second race in-a-row will start third on the grid.

Ara Malkhassian, of Sonoma, Calif., will start fourth in his No. 11 Alara Racing Mazda MX-5, after turning in a lap of 1:42.142 (89.522 mph) on his final flyer. Second fastest in yesterday's practice, Mark Pombo, of Duluth, Ga., will take the fifth-place spot on the grid in the No. 19 Fresh From Florida/Traqmate Mazda MX-5 with a time of 1:42.263 (89.417 mph).

Runner-up at Houston, Jesse Combs, slots into sixth on the grid. He is followed by 17-year-old MX-5 Cup newcomer Andrew Carbonell. Pratt Cole, John C. Kuitwaard and Randy Hale III complete the top ten.

Tomorrow's race at Road Atlanta for Round Two of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup is scheduled to go green at 12:00 p.m. (EDT). For event news and results, including live timing and lap notes, visit www.mx-5cup.com.

Attached image: Braselton local Eric Foss will start on pole for tomorrow's MX-5 Cup race. Credit: SCCA/Jimmy Sykes

Starting lineup for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Two part of the the 30th Anniversary Walter Mitty Challenge at Road Atlanta, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (25), Eric Foss, Braselton, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 1:41.461, 90.123.
2, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:41.892, 89.742.
3, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 1:42.049, 89.604.
4, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:42.142, 89.522.
5, (19), Mark Pombo, Duluth, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 1:42.263, 89.416.
6, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:42.466, 89.239.
7, (58), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:42.722, 89.017.
8, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 1:42.940, 88.828.
9, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 1:42.969, 88.803.
10, (21), Randy Hale III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:43.089, 88.700.
11, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:43.097, 88.693.
12, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:43.167, 88.633.
13, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:43.227, 88.581.
14, (57), Mike Gatto, Atlanta, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 1:43.233, 88.576.
15, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:43.355, 88.471.
16, (60), Patrick Sandlin, Memphis, Tenn., Mazda MX-5, 1:43.461, 88.381.
17, (52), Donna Gilio, Carson City, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 1:43.465, 88.377.
18, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:43.646, 88.223.
19, (24), Forest Barber, Forth Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:44.964, 87.115.
20, (29), Brett Smrz, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Mazda MX-5, 1:45.221, 86.902.
21, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobline, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 1:45.252, 86.877.
22, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 1:45.531, 86.647.
23, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:45.629, 86.567.
24, (5), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:46.005, 86.260.
25, (08), Laura Olson, Costa Mesa, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:46.694, 85.703.
26, (44), Steve Bottom, Newport Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:47.642, 84.948.
27, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, no time.

Posted On 4/27/07

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Buras Tops MX-5 Cup Practice at Road Atlant

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 05:16:24 PST

Buras Tops MX-5 Cup Practice at Road Atlant
By Erin Cecha, SCCA Pro Racing

BRASELTON, Ga. (April 26, 2007) Todd Buras, of Melbourne, Fla., took advantage of the only dry session of the day at Road Atlanta to top the practice sheets for Round Two of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup, part of the 30th Anniversary Walter Mitty Challenge. Mark Pombo, of Duluth, Ga., and Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, were second and third quick for the day.

With the first two sessions plagued with rain, the final 25-minute practice of the day was the only dry track time the MX-5 cars received at Road Atlanta. Although he was absent at the season opener in Houston, Buras didn't miss a beat in his return to MX-5 Cup at what he considers to be his home track. Driving the No. 56 BSI/TeamGarcia/MOMO/Joe Gibbs Mazda MX-5, Buras laid down lap of 1:42.325 (89.362 mph) early around the 2.54-mile track, and left the rest of the field to play catch-up for the remainder of the session.

"This is a fantastic series," Buras said. "We're having a lot of fun here. BSI put together a great car. We got out early and got some good laps put down with the new tire. We've never been on it, so we guessed at the shock adjustment and tire pressures. Obviously we hit pretty close to home on the new pavement at Road Atlanta.

"There's a ton of grip, so [this weekend] is gonna be a fight the whole time. The new pavement is so bouncy that you're catching the car every time you go through a corner. I think it's going to be about car control, because the track has changed so much, so it's really a driver's track.

"We left a lot out on the table today. We were having some brake issues and some little things here and there, but we're gonna work on set-up tonight, change some things around, and hopefully we can run even better tomorrow."

Driving the No. 19 FreshFromFlorida/Traqmate/Hooverspeed Mazda MX-5, Pombo put in a fast time of 1:42.414 (89.284 mph) on his final hot lap. It was just enough to edge Houston-winner Saini, who ended the day third-fastest with a 1:42.480 (89.227 mph) behind the wheel of his No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/SafeRacer.com Mazda MX-5.

Local driver Eric Foss clocked a time of 1:42.616 (89.109 mph) in the No. 25 Team MER Mazda MX-5, which was good enough for fourth. Foss was followed on the time sheets by the No. 11 Alara Racing Mazda MX-5 of Ara Malkhassian, from Sonoma, Calif., who turned a 1:42.717 (89.021 mph).

Andrew Caddell and Matt Cross, who were both quick in the damp morning session, finished the day sixth and seventh quick respectively. Jesse Combs, Andrew Carbonell and John C. Kuitwaard completed the top ten.

Qualifying for Round Two of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup is scheduled to go green tomorrow at 12:00 p.m. (EDT).

Visit www.mx-5cup.com for all the event news, as well as live timing and lap notes.

Attached image: No. 56 Todd Buras was the fastest MX-5 in Thursday practice at Road Atlanta. Credit: SCCA/Jimmy Sykes

Combined practice results for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Two part of the 30th Anniversary Walter Mitty Challenge at Road Atlanta, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:42.325, 89.362.
2, (19), Mark Pombo, Duluth, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 1:42.414, 89.284.
3, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:42.480, 89.227.
4, (25), Eric Foss, Braselton, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 1:42.616, 89.109.
5, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:42.717, 89.021.
6, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 1:42.896, 88.866.
7, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:43.181, 88.621.
8, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:43.262, 88.551.
9, (58), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:43.761, 88.125.
10, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 1:43.907, 88.001.
11, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 1:44.047, 87.883.
12, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:44.242, 87.719.
13, (60), Patrick Sandlin, Memphis, Tenn., Mazda MX-5, 1:44.311, 87.661.
14, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:44.332, 87.643.
15, (52), Donna Gilio, Carson City, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 1:44.534, 87.474.
16, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:44.631, 87.392.
17, (21), Randy Hale III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:44.665, 87.364.
18, (57), Mike Gatto, Atlanta, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 1:44.693, 87.341.
19, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 1:45.143, 86.967.
20, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobline, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 1:45.417, 86.741.
21, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:46.064, 86.212.
22, (08), Laura Olson, Costa Mesa, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:48.272, 84.454.
23, (24), Forest Barber, Forth Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:48.365, 84.381.
24, (5), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:49.709, 83.347.
25, (29), Brett Smrz, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Mazda MX-5, 1:55.179, 79.389.
26, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, no time.
27, (44), Steve Bottom, Newport Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, no time.

Posted On 4/26/07

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Cross Fastest in Wet Morning MX-5 Cup Practice at Road Atlanta

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 12:10:57 PST

Cross Fastest in Wet Morning MX-5 Cup Practice at Road Atlanta
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

BRASELTON, Ga. (April 26, 2007) Matt Cross, of Folsom, Calif., paced a damp morning practice for Round Two of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup, part of the 30th Anniversary Walter Mitty Challenge at Road Atlanta. Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., and Andrew Carbonell, of Miami, Fla., were second and third fastest respectively.

Following an early morning rain shower, MX-5 teams brought out the rain tires for the first of three 25-minute practice sessions at Road Atlanta. Driving the No. 80 Jason Hoover Motorsports/Hooverspeed Mazda MX-5, Cross topped the times early in the session and continued to improve his speed with each lap as the rain ceased and a dry line began to form. His fast time of 1:50.424 (82.808 mph) came on the final lap of the session.

"The car felt pretty good," Cross said. "We went pretty easy in the first laps and in the middle we were just hanging out. Then I decided to go ahead and put a little more into the last few laps just to see what the car felt like and it felt good, so I was real happy with the session and real happy with the car."

Cross managed to set fast time in the rain despite never being to Road Atlanta before and used the wet session to get acclimated with the 12-turn, 2.54-mile circuit.

"We've never been here before, so for me this was really about getting a feel for the track. Now we at least got a good look at track, but once we get some dry sessions, I'm sure a couple of these guys are going to be faster just because they know where to put the car. If it rains again, certainly we'll go out again this afternoon just to get more comfortable with the track and where everything is."

Driving the No. 30 TeamMER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5, Caddell led a large portion of the practice session before dropping a spot to Cross on the final lap. Showing the same prowess in the rain that helped him win the SCCA Spec Miata National Championship, Caddell was able to turn a fast lap of 1:50.951 (82.414 mph).

In his MX-5 Cup debut, 17-year-old Carbonell set the third-quickest time of the session in his No. 58 BSI/TeamGarcia/MOMO/JoeGibbs Mazda MX-5 with a 1:51826 (81.769 mph).

Ara Malkhassian, of Houston, Texas, drove his No. 11 ALARA Racing Mazda MX-5 to fourth fastest in the session with a 1:51.833 (81.764 mph). Runner-up a week ago at Houston, Jesse Combs, of Woodlands, Texas, completed the top-five with a time of 1:52.150 (81.533 mph) in his No. 7 Coolgas Ltd. Mazda MX-5.

Mark Pombo, Pratt Cole, Mike Gatto, Brett Smrz and Harrison Williams completed the top-ten.

There's more rain in the forecast for the two remaining practice sessions this afternoon, which are scheduled for 3:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. (EDT).
For full results from Road Atlanta as well as live timing and lap notes visit www.mx-5cup.com.

Photo: No. 80 Matt Cross led morning MX-5 Cup practice at a soggy Road Atlanta.
Credit: SCCA/Jimmy Sykes

Results from the first practice session for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing Mazda MX-5 Cup Round Two, part of the 2007 30th Anniversary Walter Mitty Challenge at Road Atlanta, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:50.424, 82.808.
2, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 1:50.951, 82.414.
3, (58), Andrew Carbonell, Miami, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:51.826, 81.769.
4, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:51.833, 81.764.
5, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:52.150, 81.533.
6, (19), Mark Pombo, Duluth, Ga., Mazda MX-5, 1:52.593, 81.212.
7, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 1:52.790, 81.071.
8, (57), Mike Gatto, , , Mazda MX-5, 1:54.019, 80.197.
9, (29), Brett Smrz, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Mazda MX-5, 1:55.179, 79.389.
10, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:55.314, 79.296.
11, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 1:57.824, 77.607.
12, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 1:58.811, 76.962.
13, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:59.080, 76.788.
14, (52), Donna Gilio, Carson City, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 1:59.582, 76.466.
15, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:59.946, 76.234.
16, (5), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 2:02.808, 74.457.
17, (08), Laura Olson, Costa Mesa, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 2:03.362, 74.123.
18, (24), Forest Barber, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 2:03.763, 73.883.
19, (21), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 2:04.215, 73.614.
20, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, no time.
21, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobline, Ala., Mazda MX-5, no time.
22, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, no time.
23, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, no time.
24, (44), Steve Bottom, Newport Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, no time.
25, (56), Todd Buras, Melbourne, Fla., Mazda MX-5, no time.
26, (60), Patrick Sandlin, Memphis, Tenn., Mazda MX-5, no time.

Posted On 4/26/07

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BSI Racing: Top-10 finish at the Iowa Speedway

Wed, 25 Apr 2007 12:13:22 PST

BSI Racing: Top-10 finish at the Iowa Speedway
By Lauren Liebowitz, BSI Racing

Ormond Beach, Florida - Tuesday, April 24 - BSI Racing and Team Garcia continue their top-10 finishing streak after an 8th place finish by Todd Buras and Carlos Garcia in the No. 56 Joe Gibbs Racing Oil/ MOMO Mazda MX-5 at the Iowa Speedway this past weekend. The No. 58 JustRacing.com Mazda MX-5 driven by Justin Hall and Magnus Karlsson also had great race results with a 14th place finish. Both race finishes help boost BSI team in point standings. The race finish has placed BSI Racing 9th in ST team points.

For the first road course race ever held at the Iowa Speedway, the KONI Challenge Series put on an exciting show. The two and a half hour race consisted mostly of clean and competitive driving. Only a handful of yellow caution flags fell throughout the race. Both Karlsson and Garcia, in the No. 56 and No. 58 MX-5 race cars stayed out for ninety laps (half the race). They had to pit for a driver change under green flag racing due to the lack of caution laps. "The car started out with a push but after 10 minutes the car was great," said Garcia after he climbed out of the No. 56 car. Karlsson was also smiling after his stint at Iowa. "I really needed a break but I pushed myself in the car. My whole left side is sore from having to constantly be turning. Even so, I still turned my fastest lap all week in the car during the race."

After the driver change, Hall and Buras both took to the Iowa track and got into a steady pace. The track stayed green and it seemed that the race would end without any major accidents. Then with the last ten minutes left in the race, Buras in the No. 56 passed ST competitor No. 68 for position. As Buras moved up in position an accident occurred ahead and behind him but the MX-5 was able to slip out from the cars and hold onto 8th place. "I pulled off a clean pass during the last few minutes of the race," said Buras. "Then I was pancaked between two wrecks. There was a crash ahead of me and right behind me. But I managed to pop out in front of everyone. What a race!"

After the Iowa race results BSI Racing is 9th and 23rd in team points in the ST division. The team and drivers were extremely satisfied with their first race experience at Iowa and look forward to another opportunity to race at the Speedway. The next KONI Challenge race will be at the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca on May 19th.

BSI Racing appreciates support from MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development, KONI, Joe Gibbs Racing Oil, MOMO, SPEEDCOM Communications, BBS, STACK, JustRacing.com and Sun Belt Performance Engines.

BSI Racing offers race car preparation, trackside support, fabrication, and parts for the Mazda MX-5. The race team will be campaigning Mazda MX-5 cars in the KONI Challenge Series and participating in the 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup.

For information on MX-5 rental and ownership programs, visit www.bsiracing.com

For more information on Team Garcia visit: www.teamgarciaracing.com

Contact:
Lauren Liebowitz
BSI Racing
Office: 386-677-5778
Cell: 386-237-3987

www.bsiracing.com/miata

Posted On 4/25/07

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Charity Motorsports Group Debuts Their New Race Car At Laguna Seca BMW CCA Event

Wed, 25 Apr 2007 12:11:37 PST

Charity Motorsports Group Debuts Their New Race Car At Laguna Seca BMW CCA Event
By Aaron Nichols

SAN MATEO, Calif. 25-APRIL-2007 -- Charity Motorsports Group, Inc. (CMG) enjoyed a successful debut of its Evosport tuned BMW e46 M3 race car. Laguna Seca Raceway in Monterey, CA marked the beginning of the 2007 BMW CCA road race season for the west coast arm of the organization. Although threatened by rain all weekend, it proved to be a dry event for the two feature races which showcased some of the most exciting and clean racing in recent years.

CMG unveiled their M3 race car which captured the attention of many and performed well in its first on-track excursion. "The guys at Evosport are amazing. They literally finished putting this car together just hours before rolling it into the trailer and off to Laguna. I saw it for the first time when I arrived at the track on Friday and I was blown away. It turned out beautifulbeyond my expectations. I was really moved to see the culmination of everyone's hard work and all our sponsor's contributions. I cannot thank everyone involved enough. Now we just need to do everyone proud and perform well in races and spread the message of The Lance Armstrong Foundation.", said Aaron Nichols, Founder of CMG, Inc.

The car performed well as Aaron was able to bring the #888 CMG/Evosport M3 to first and second place finishes in Saturday and Sunday's H-prepared class races respectively. A small hiccup due to the car being slightly under weight meant Aaron had to start Sunday's feature race dead last in the field of 31 entries. Aaron was able to battle back, making several early stage passes, to finish a respectable 19th overall and 2nd in class.

"We were happy with the performance for our first time out. Of course we always wish we could do better but this is a new car.lots to sort out. But we are moving in the right directions and made good progress from where we began on Friday. We have a long road ahead of us but I am happy with how things are looking. I owe a lot of thanks to our sponsors. Without their help we would not have such an amazing car. The Toyo RA-1s performed flawlessly, our Rotora brakes provided solid stopping power, and the Powerchip ECU we run really has the Evosport tuned S54 engine taking advantage of every bit of power the car is making. The Vorsteiner bumper and Sparco safety gear really complete one of the most well-balanced race cars I have ever driven. Now if I could just hurry up and improve my driving skills so I take advantage of its full potential."

CMG also enjoyed a lot of attention in the pits for their car and was given ample opportunity spread the message of their premiere partner, The Lance Armstrong Foundation. "We received a lot of well wishes and thumbs up for what we are trying to do. Donations also came in throughout the weekend. I am really looking forward to Bimmerfest in two weeks where thousands of people will see the car and we will have a captive audience to tell The LAF's story. Then it is off to Willow Springs for more racing!"

Cancer Facts*

More than 10 million Americans are currently living with, through or beyond cancer.
More than 1.3 million people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer this year.
Of adults diagnosed with cancer today, 64% will be alive five years from now.
One in three people will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime.
With every second of 2006 two Americans were diagnosed with cancer and one died. That is like re-living the horror of 9/11 every two days for the entire year!

Posted On 4/25/07

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Heartland Park Announces Road Course Configuration Changes

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 03:02:22 PST

Heartland Park Announces Road Course Configuration Changes
By Eric Prill, SCCA

TOPEKA, Kan. (April 23, 2007) Heartland Park Topeka announced today several changes to the course layout of the 2.5-mile configuration utilized for the SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T.

Two sections of the race track, including turns one, two and eight, will be modified prior to the 2007 Runoffs, held Oct. 8-14.

The turn one-two complex will become faster, with wider radius turns to encourage side-by-side racing while making it less probable for cars to run off course. The higher speeds into turn three will also open up the corner entry for out-braking maneuvers.

Turn Eight will no longer be a hard braking zone, with a gradual bend to the left before feeding into the right-hand Turn Nine. This section of the course is expected to be much faster. Turn 10 will become a heavier braking zone due to increased speeds out of Turn Nine.

"The new course changes will accomplish several goals. It will create faster average lap speeds, faster overall speeds, at least one very fast, 'signature' corner and address two problem areas where cars would frequently leave the course and bring debris back on the track surface," Heartland Park Topeka Owner Raymond Irwin said. "Both sections will be at least one gear higher, and the Turn Eight-Nine section will be very fast, requiring both skill and courage, not unlike The Kink at Road America."

"Raymond Irwin and Heartland Park Topeka have listened to its customers and taken a course of action that they feel best addresses the feedback from the 2006 event," SCCA President and CEO Jim Julow said. "While the changes are minor in comparison to the complete renovation of the facility completed in 2006, we expect them to have a major positive impact on the racing."

Construction will begin this summer and, while Irwin does not rule out the possibility of completion before late-summer events, it is expected that the new changes will be run for the first time during the Oct. 1-7 test week leading up to the Runoffs.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs Presented by AT&T, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America's Club Racing National Champions for the 44th-consecutive year in 2007. More than 700 of the best amateur drivers from across North America convene on Heartland Park Topeka's 2.5-mile road course each fall in what is considered the "Olympics" of motorsports.

Heartland Park Topeka, a multi-purpose racing facility located in Topeka, Kan., annually hosts NHRA POWERade drag racing, Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) and many other pro and amateur drag racing, road racing and dirt racing events throughout the race season.

Posted On 4/23/07

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Saini Take Mazda MX-5 Cup Season Opener At Houston

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 02:52:22 PST

Saini Take Mazda MX-5 Cup Season Opener At Houston
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

HOUSTON, Texas (April 21, 2007) Texan Jason Saini grabbed the lead in the opening lap and sped away from the rest of the field to take the win in the opening round of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup, part of the Grand Prix of Houston. Jesse Combs, of Houston, Texas, and polesitter Brett Smrz, of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, completed the podium.

Starting his No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/SafeRacer.com Mazda MX-5 on the outside of the front row, Saini snatched the lead from teammate Smrz shortly after the green flag waved. Saini was briefly pressured by the No. 80 Jason Hoover Motorsports/Hooverspeed Mazda MX-5 of Matt Cross before Saini's fellow MER teammate Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., took over the second spot to join a two-car breakaway.

After making contact with the wall in Turn Ten, Caddell lost ground on Saini and was eventually brought into the pits by series officials when his passenger door began to open on course. With Caddell in the pits, Saini inherited a lead of more than four seconds over then second place Smrz. Caddell would retire due to the damage.

The lead narrowed as Saini worked his way through the back of the field in the closing laps, and, by the time the white flag flew, the gap had been cut to less than two seconds over Combs. Despite a three-wide moment with some lapped traffic in Turn Two, Saini could not be caught, and took the victory at JAGFlo Speedway at Reliant Park by 1.776 seconds, averaging 70.681 mph over the 32 lap, 53.856-mile race.

"This feels great," Saini said. "All the work that the Team MER crew put in was outstanding. It's an outstanding race-the Houston Grand Prix. To see all the effort in the off-season be rewarded with a win is just fantastic. It was a great team effort.

"Driving around in the concrete walls, there is no airflow and you can just see all the gauges going up. The crew would tell me what the gap to second was and I would try to back off a bit to conserve the car. But every time I would back off, they'd close the gap. It may have looked like a walk in the park, but it definitely was not."

"I was pretty concerned," Saini said of his close-call with lapped traffic. "Last year was a little tough with a couple of DNFs in the first two races. I knew I wanted to get through the traffic clean but I also knew that any time that I wasted in the traffic, my lead would erode. I came up on the pack of cars, I saw a gap, flashed my lights and I went for it. I thank those guys for giving me room because they were having a hard battle themselves."

Starting sixth, Combs drove a hard race in his No. 7 Coolgas Ltd. Mazda MX-5. The local driver spent much of the race in a four-car battle for the runner-up and third place spots, which turned into a three-car shootout in second half of the race after Cadell headed to the pits.

"The first 10 laps I focused on staying in fifth, with the cars in front of me and putting distance on the cars behind me," said Combs. "About 20 minutes in, Andrew had a problem and then Brett [Smrz] and I traded places a few times.

"Toward the end of the race, my car seemed to get better and better. I caught back up to Jason a little bit with a couple of laps to go but I knew I could only get him if he made a mistake at that point."

In his first-ever car race, 16-year-old Smrz fell back to fourth on the opening lap, but worked his way back to second by lap 14. Smrz then diced with Combs and the Cross, dropping back to fourth briefly, before capturing the final podium spot from Cross on lap 30.

"I was going into the first turn and I missed the two-three shift a little bit at the start and lost some speed," Smrz said. "Jason [Saini] started to go by me and Andrew [Caddell] was following. Going into Turn One, Andrew clipped me a little bit, not on purpose, obviously. Matt [Cross] followed him and I was fourth exiting turn two.

"This was my first pro race, and racing under the lights was just a blast."

Cross, of Folsom, Calif., who put pressure on Saini early in the race, just missed the podium to finish fourth. Pratt Cole, of Salt Lake City, Utah, completed the top five in his No. 88 DEX Mazda MX-5 after starting eighth on the grid.

John Kuitwaard, Bob Michaelian, Rick Bellew, Ara Malkhassian, and Chris Sarian completed the top ten.

Although he did retire from the race following his brush with the wall, Caddell took home the Hawk Hot Lap for setting the fastest lap of the race in his No. 30 Team MER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5, a 1:24.537 (71.670 mph).

Round Two of the MX-5 Cup heads east next weekend to Road Atlanta, April 27-29.

For full results and Houston event coverage visit www.mx-5cup.com

Attached image: Jason Saini takes the win under the lights at the Grand Prix of Houston.
Credit: SCCA/Jimmy Sykes

Results from Saturday's 32-lap, 53.856-mile SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round One SCCA MX-5 Cup Round One race, part of the 2007 Grand Prix of Houston at JAGFlo Speedway at Reliant Park with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps, distance behind winner and reason out (if any).

1. (2), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 32.
2. (6), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 32, -1.776.
3. (1), Brett Smrz, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Mazda MX-5, 32, -7.682.
4. (3), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 32, -14.353.
5. (8), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 32, -28.301.
6. (7), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 32, -44.192.
7. (12), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 32, -44.318.
8. (14), Rick Bellew, Mobline, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 32, -1:27.133.
9. (5), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 32, -1:27.501.
10. (18), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 31, -1 lap.
11. (13), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 31, -1 lap.
12. (19), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 31, -1 lap.
13. (10), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 31, -1 lap.
14. (24), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 31, -1 lap.
15. (25), Forest Barber, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 31, -1 lap.
16. (20), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 31, -1 lap.
17. (17), Donna Gilio, Carson City, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 31, -1 lap.
18. (22), Laura Olson, Costa Mesa, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 30, -2 laps.
19. (21), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 30, -2 laps.
20. (9), Ben McCrackin, Corpus Christi, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 29, Mech.
21. (16), Jeff Moore, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 25, Crash.
22. (4), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 16, Mech.
23. (15), Steve Bottom, Newport Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 12, Mech.
24. (11), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 7, Mech.
25. (23), Shannon McMasters, Granbury, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 7, Mech.

Time of race: 45 minutes, 43.017 seconds.
Average speed: 70.681 mph
Margin of victory: 1.776 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-32, #28 Jason Saini
Hawk Performance Hot Lap: #30 Andrew Caddell, 1:24.537 (71.670 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #29 Brett Smrz, 1:24.177 (71.977 mph)

Posted On 4/23/07

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Charity Motorsports Group Announces Vorsteiner As Its Official Aerodynamics Technology Partner

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 02:37:13 PST

Charity Motorsports Group Announces Vorsteiner As Its Official Aerodynamics Technology Partner
By Aaron Nichols, Charity Motorsports Group

SAN MATEO, Calif. 12-APRIL-2007 -- Charity Motorsports Group, Inc. (CMG) has finalized another key partnership. The industry's premiere aerodynamics developer and manufacturer, Vorsteiner Group has agreed to develop key aerodynamic components exclusively for CMG and Evosport's e46 BMW M3 race car.

"This is a super partnership and I am really excited to be working with Vorsteiner. As the industry leader in BMW aerodynamic components, this brings a whole new level of excitement and anticipation to the unveiling and performance of our M3 race car. Once again, another cutting edge organization sees the value in our program! I am confident this is going to be a fruitful partnership for both parties." Aaron Nichols, Founder of CMG, Inc.

Cancer Facts*

More than 10 million Americans are currently living with, through or beyond cancer.
More than 1.3 million people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer this year.
Of adults diagnosed with cancer today, 64% will be alive five years from now.
One in three people will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime.
With every second of 2006 two Americans were diagnosed with cancer and one died. That is like re-living the horror of 9/11 every two days for the entire year!

Charity Motorsports Group (CMG) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization headquartered in San Mateo, California. Founded by long time motor sport competitor, Aaron Nichols, CMG participates in various motor sport competitions and events to spread the message of and raise funds for its premiere partner, The Lance Armstrong Foundation.

About Vorsteiner: Designed at a level which shows no compromises, Vorsteiner has revolutionized the aftermarket aerodynamics performance market with uncompromising attention to detail & forward thinking styling concepts. Vorsteiner carbon products offers the industry leading dry carbon vacuum technology that is also commonly used for building lightweight & strong body panels within the Formula 1 and aerospace industry. Uncompromising Quality, Performance and Innovative Design. Perfection Redefined...

The Lance Armstrong Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Austin, Texas. Founded in 1997 by cancer survivor and champion cyclist, Lance Armstrong, the LAF inspires and empowers people with cancer. The LAF believes that in the battle with cancer, unity is strength, knowledge is power and attitude is everything.

*Copyright the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

Contact:

Aaron Nichols
CMG, Inc.
510-300-5255
anichols@charitymotorsports.com
www.charitymotorsports.org

Peter Lee
Vorsteiner Group
800-601-7615
peter@vorsteiner.com
www.vorsteiner.com

Posted On 4/23/07

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Sixteen-Year-Old Smrz Grabs Mazda MX-5 Cup Pole at Houston

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 12:59:51 PST

Sixteen-Year-Old Smrz Grabs Mazda MX-5 Cup Pole at Houston
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

HOUSTON, Texas (April 21, 2007) Sixteen-year-old Brett Smrz, of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, captured pole for tonight's opening round of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup at the Grand Prix of Houston. Teammate Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, will complete the front row.

In his first-ever Mazda MX-5 Cup appearance, Smrz, who just turned 16 in February, climbed to the top of the timing sheets early in the 25-minute qualifying session. The former karting champion wheeled his No. 29 AutismSpeaks.org/SafeRacer.com Mazda MX-5 to a time of 1:24.177 (71.977 mph) at the 10-turn, 1.683-mile JAGFlo Speedway at Reliant Park.

"It feels awesome," Smrz said of his first pole. "We tested with Team MER a lot at MSR and testing went great. We struggled a little bit in the beginning [here], but ended up pulling it out.

"I've been doing three years of go-karting. I was the Stars of Karting East and West JICA Champion last year. Definitely the suspension [is the biggest difference from karting]. It's a whole different story. You have to take a whole different line, the throttle input everything is different."

Starting alongside Smrz tonight will be fellow MER teammate Saini, who paced yesterday's night practice. Saini shed more than a second off of his practice times to qualify his No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/Saferacer.com Mazda MX-5 second on the grid with a time of 1:24.233 (71.977 mph).

Starting third is the No. 80 Jason Hoover Motorsports/Hooverspeed Mazda MX-5 of Matt Cross, of Folsom, Calif., who clocked a fast time of 1:24.312 (71.861 mph).

Driving the No. 30 Team MER/AimSport/Pinnacle Mazda MX-5, Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., turned a fast lap of 1:24.629 (71.592 mph), good enough for fourth on the grid. He is followed by Ara Malkhassian, of Sonoma, Calif., who slotted his No. 11 Alara Racing Mazda MX-5 into fifth on the grid with a time of 1:24.937 (71.332 mph).

Jesse Combs, John C. Kuitwaard, Pratt Cole, Ben McCrackin and Tim Probert completed the top ten.

The first race of the 2007 MX-5 Cup season goes green at 8:45 p.m. (CDT) today under the lights of JAGFlo Speedway at Reliant Park.

Log on to www.mx-5cup.com for full event coverage, including live timing and lap notes.

Attached image: No. 29 AutismSpeaks.org/SafeRacer.com Mazda MX-5 of Brett Smrz. SCCA

Starting lineup for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round One, part of the 2007 Grand Prix of Houston, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (29), Brett Smrz, Coeur d'Alene ID, , Mazda MX-5, 1:24.177, 71.977.
2, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:24.223, 71.937.
3, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:24.312, 71.861.
4, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 1:24.629, 71.592.
5, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Sonoma, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:24.937, 71.332.
6, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:25.235, 71.083.
7, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 1:25.306, 71.024.
8, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 1:25.328, 71.006.
9, (81), Ben McCrackin, Corpus Christi, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:25.335, 71.000.
10, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:25.477, 70.882.
11, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:25.598, 70.782.
12, (19), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:26.248, 70.248.
13, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:26.419, 70.109.
14, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobline, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 1:26.434, 70.097.
15, (44), Steve Bottom, Newport Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:26.937, 69.691.
16, (22), Jeff Moore, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:27.022, 69.623.
17, (52), Donna Gilio, Carson City, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 1:27.066, 69.588.
18, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 1:27.136, 69.532.
19, (5), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:27.495, 69.247.
20, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:27.893, 68.933.
21, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 1:27.914, 68.917.
22, (08), Laura Olson, Costa Mesa, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.018, 68.836.
23, (25), Shannon McMasters, Granbury, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:28.311, 68.607.
24, (21), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.479, 68.477.
25, (24), Forest Barber, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:28.685, 68.318.

Posted On 4/23/07

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Saini Leads MX-5 Cup Practice at Houston

Fri, 20 Apr 2007 09:17:06 PST

Saini Leads MX-5 Cup Practice at Houston
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

HOUSTON, Texas (April 20, 2007) Under the lights of JAGFlo Speedway at Reliant Park, Jason Saini, of Fort Worth, Texas, led practice Friday for Round One of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup, part of the Grand Prix of Houston. Matt Cross, of Folsom, Calif., and 16-year-old Brett Smrz, of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, were second and third fastest, respectively.

Seven months after winning the 2006 MX-5 Cup finale, Saini was able to top the field once again in the hour-long night practice through the parking lots of Reliant Park. Saini put his No. 28 Autobarn Mazda/Saferacer.com Mazda MX-5 to the top of the time sheets shortly after the session's only red flag period, which was brought out for the No. 52 Hooverspeed Mazda MX-5 of Donna Gilio, of Carson City, Nev., who was stopped in Turn Two after contact with the wall.

Saini continued to improve his time around the 10-turn, 1.7-mile temporary street course through the closing minutes of the session, when he turned his fast time of a 1:25.271 (71.771 mph).

"I love the track," Saini said. "I've always loved street courses. I started racing because I went to a street course as a spectator and fell in love with it. It's a lot like autocross, which is where I came from. Heck, we're running it in the parking lot out here, so I'm used to that.

"A lot of hard work went into getting here by the Team MER crew. Late nights, so much blood, sweat and tears to get here. It was nice to get in the first session and do well with so many Team MER cars in the top five."

Cross ended the evening second fastest with a time of 1:25.361 (71.695 mph) in his No. 80 JasonHooverMtrsprts/Hooverspeed Mazda MX-5. Cross was followed by the No. 29 Team MER Mazda MX-5 of Smrz, who posted fast time of 1:25.753 (71.367 mph).

2006 SCCA Spec Miata National Champion Andrew Caddell, of Graham, Wash., led practice briefly in his Mazda MX-5 Cup debut, but finished the session in fourth, driving his No. 30 Team MER/AimSport/PinnacleMazda Mazda MX-5 to a time of 1:25.881 (71.261 mph). Bob Michaelian, of Seal Beach, Calif., completed the top-five with a 1:26.262 (70.946 mph).

Jesse Combs, Pratt Cole, Rick Bellew, Barry A. Fromberg and Ben McCrackin completed the top-ten.

Qualifying for Round One of the MX-5 Cup is schedule to go green Saturday at 4:20 p.m. (CDT). The 45-minute race will take place the same evening, at 8:45 p.m., following the American LeMans Series race.

For full results, live timing and lap notes visit www.mx-5cup.com.

Attached image: Jason Saini at the Grand Prix of Houston.
Credit: SCCA/Jimmy Sykes

Results from Friday night's practice session for Saturday's SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Round One race, part of the 2007 Grand Prix of Houston with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time and speed in miles per hour.

1, (28), Jason Saini, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:25.271, 71.771.
2, (80), Matt Cross, Folsom, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:25.361, 71.695.
3, (29), Brett Smrz, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Mazda MX-5, 1:25.753, 71.367.
4, (30), Andrew Caddell, Graham, Wash., Mazda MX-5, 1:25.881, 71.261.
5, (19), Bob Michaelian, Seal Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:26.262, 70.946.
6, (7), Jesse Combs, Woodlands, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:26.268, 70.941.
7, (88), Pratt Cole, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mazda MX-5, 1:26.649, 70.629.
8, (10), Rick Bellew, Mobline, Ala., Mazda MX-5, 1:27.024, 70.325.
9, (43), Barry A. Fromberg, Plano, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:27.250, 70.143.
10, (81), Ben McCrackin, Corpus Christi, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:27.256, 70.138.
11, (39), Brad McAllister, Portland, Ore., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.119, 69.451.
12, (11), Ara Malkhassian, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:28.481, 69.167.
13, (65), Chris Sarian, Littleton, Colo., Mazda MX-5, 1:28.507, 69.147.
14, (8), Dr. Carlos Tesler-Mabe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Mazda MX-5, 1:29.482, 68.393.
15, (22), Jeff Moore, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:29.796, 68.154.
16, (44), Steve Bottom, Newport Beach, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.823, 68.134.
17, (09), John C. Kuitwaard, Wantagh, N.Y., Mazda MX-5, 1:29.939, 68.046.
18, (25), Shannon McMasters, Granbury, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:30.091, 67.931.
19, (00), Harrison Williams, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:30.280, 67.789.
20, (5), Dale Alexander, Tampa, Fla., Mazda MX-5, 1:30.801, 67.400.
21, (24), Forest Barber, Fort Worth, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:30.879, 67.342.
22, (52), Donna Gilio, Carson City, Nev., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.344, 66.999.
23, (21), Randy Hale_III, Haddam, Conn., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.483, 66.897.
24, (08), Laura Olson, Costa Mesa, Calif., Mazda MX-5, 1:31.855, 66.626.
25, (26), Tim Probert, Houston, Texas, Mazda MX-5, 1:43.352, 59.215.

Posted On 4/20/07

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SPEED GT Race From Long Beach Airs Saturday

Fri, 20 Apr 2007 09:09:15 PST

SPEED GT Race From Long Beach Airs Saturday
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (April 20, 2007) Round Two of the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship from Long Beach will air this Saturday on SPEED.

Hitting the airwaves at 3:00 p.m. (EDT) on SPEED, the SCCA SPEED GT race on the streets of Long Beach is loaded with plenty of door-to-door racing and several exciting lead changes, all between some intimidating cement walls. Tune in to see how long the all-Cadillac front row of Ron Fellows and Andy Pilgrim can hold-off the Corvette of Championship leader Eric Curran.

If you miss the broadcast on Saturday, you can catch it again Monday, April 23, at 12:00 p.m. (EDT).

For full results and news from the SCCA SPEED GT Long Beach event log on to www.world-challenge.com.

Attached image: Start of the SCCA SPEED GT race from Long Beach.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 4/20/07

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Long Beach SPEED GT Results Revised, McCann Disqualified

Fri, 20 Apr 2007 09:06:32 PST

Long Beach SPEED GT Results Revised, McCann Disqualified
By Eric Prill, SCCA Pro Racing

TOPEKA, Kan. (April 20, 2007) SCCA Pro Racing announced today a revision to the provisional results from Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Race, with fifth place finisher Michael McCann disqualified after unapproved components were found in the transmission of his Dodge Viper.

An investigation this week verified that the components found in the transmission during post-race technical inspection were not eligible for competition. McCann lost all event points and purse after the disqualification, and all cars moved up in the finishing order.

McCann Racing has until Friday, April 27 to file an appeal.

Attached: Image of Michael McCann at Long Beach. (Weber/SCCA Image)

Revised provisional results from Sunday's 28-lap, 55.104-mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Two race, part of the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps, distance behind winner and reason out (if any). Results will remain provisional through the appeal period which ends April 27.

1. (3), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 28.
2. (2), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 28, -1.171.
3. (4), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 28, -1.697.
4. (7), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 28, -2.136.
5. (12), Rob Foster, Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 28, -5.104.
6. (6), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 28, -6.022.
7. (9), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 28, -6.131.
8. (16), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 28, -7.850.
9. (13), James Sofronas, Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 28, -11.038.
10. (18), Sonny Whelen, Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 28, -13.883.
11. (8), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 28, -14.667.
12. (21), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 28, -16.784.
13. (29), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 28, -17.684.
14. (17), Mike Davis, Huntington Beach, Calif., Ford Mustang Cobra, 28, -18.122.
15. (15), Eric Olberz(R), La Canada Flintridge, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 28, -19.082.
16. (22), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 28, -22.782.
17. (23), Brett Pearson, Orlando, Fla., Dodge Viper, 28, -23.655.
18. (26), Stu Frederick, Del mar, Calif., Dodge Viper, 28, -24.732.
19. (24), Ritch Marziale, Tempe, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 28, -50.306.
20. (10), Stu Hayner, Yorba Linda, Calif., Pontiac GTO, 27, Mech.
21. (25), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 27, -1 lap.
22. (28), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 27, -1 lap.
23. (14), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 27, -1 lap.
24. (30), Thomas Glenn(R), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 26, -2 laps.
25. (11), Brian Smith, Simpsonville, S.C., Dodge Viper, 25, -3 laps.
26. (1), Ron Fellows, Mississauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 22, Mech.
27. (20), Joel Feinberg(R), Ft Lauderdale, Fla., Dodge Viper, 21, Crash.
28. (27), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 21, Crash.
29. (19), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 15, Mech.
30. (31), Tomy Drissi, Hollywood, Calif., Chevrolet Corvette, 0, Trans.
31. (5), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 28, Disq.
32. (32), Gary Sheehan, Milford, Mass., Subaru WRX STi, 0, DNQ.

Time of race: 50 minutes, 35.432 seconds.
Average speed: 65.353 mph
Margin of victory: 1.171 Seconds
Lap leaders: Laps 1-6, #82 Michael McCann; laps 7-20, #16 Ron Fellows; laps 21-28, #30 Eric Curran
Fastest race lap: #30 Eric Curran, 1:26.348 (82.049 mph)
Fastest qualifier: #16 Ron Fellows, 1:25.086 (83.266 mph)
Sunoco Hard Charger: #99 Jeff Courtney advanced 16 positions
B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race: #30 Eric Curran
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #20 Dane Moxlow

Posted On 4/20/07

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Kumho Tires Named Official Tire of Mazda MX-5 Cup Through 2008

Tue, 17 Apr 2007 01:08:42 PST

Kumho Tires Named Official Tire of Mazda MX-5 Cup Through 2008
By Eric Prill

TOPEKA, Kan. (April 17, 2007) SCCA Pro Racing Ltd. and Kumho Tires announced today a multi-year agreement that makes Kumho the Official Tire of the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup through the 2008 season.

Beginning with the Grand Prix of Houston, April 20-22, each MX-5 Cup car will be outfitted with Kumho's Victoracer V700 DOT-approved racing tire.

"We're excited to begin this new relationship with Kumho Tires," SCCA Pro Racing President Robert Wildberger said. "Kumho has a rich history in SCCA Club Racing competition and an excellent relationship with Mazda. We look forward to having them on board as a long-term partner in this exciting, growing series."

"Grassroots motorsports are important to us because they provide an opportunity to prove our products on the track," Kumho Tire U.S.A. Motorsports Manager Rudy Consolacion said. "But motorsports are also about enthusiasm and emotion, and all of us at Kumho are passionate about motorsports. We've got great relationships with Mazda and SCCA because they share that same passion. We welcome this opportunity to get involved with the MX-5 Cup series because it provides an opportunity for grassroots racers to pursue their passion and prove themselves on the track."

With the announcement, SCCA Pro Racing unveiled the new series logo.

The 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup features eight rounds at some of North America's top road racing venues, including the Grand Prix of Houston, Road Atlanta, Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, Portland International Raceway, the Grand Prix of Cleveland, Le Grand Prix de Trois-Rivieres and Miller Motorsports Park.

Profiles:

Kumho Tires
Established in 1960, Kumho Tire Co., Inc., of Seoul, South Korea, had 2006 sales of $2 billion. Kumho manufactures and distributes a complete line of tires for passenger cars, light trucks and heavy-duty trucks. Kumho has manufacturing facilities in Korea and China and operates technical centers in Birmingham, England, and Akron, Ohio. Founded in 1975 and headquartered in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., Kumho Tire U.S.A. is the U.S. distribution arm of Kumho Tire Co. In addition to its 830,000 square foot headquarters and central distribution facility in Rancho Cucamonga, the company operates four additional distribution facilities in Atlanta, Chicago, Columbus and Dallas. For more information, visit the Kumho Web site at www.kumhotire.com.

SCCA Pro Racing
A wholly owned subsidiary of Sports Car Club of America, Inc., SCCA Pro Racing is a leading sanctioning body for motorsports events in the United States. A member of the Automobile Competition Committee of the United States (ACCUS), SCCA Pro Racing owns, operates and sanctions the SCCA SPEED World Challenge Championships and the SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup, as well as provides sanctioning and various operational services for other series, including the Formula Russell Championship Presented by Yokohama and F2000 Championship Series. For more information, please visit www.sccapro.com.

Contact Kumho Tire U.S.A.: Dan Davis, ddavis@kumhotireusa.com
Contact SCCA Pro Racing: Eric Prill, eprill@scca.com

Posted On 4/17/07

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BSI Racing: Top-10 finish at Homestead

Tue, 17 Apr 2007 12:56:57 PST

BSI Racing: Top-10 finish at Homestead
By Lauren Liebowitz

Ormond Beach, Florida, Tuesday, April 17 - After racing in the second KONI Challenge Series event, BSI Racing earned their first top-10 finish of the season at the Homestead-Miami Speedway. Justin Hall and Magnus Karlsson in the No. 58 Mazda MX-5 finished in 10th place. The team's second MX-5 race car, the No. 56 driven by Todd Buras and Carlos Garcia finished 29th.

The entire two and a half hour race threw endless obstacles at the BSI team. The MX-5's were quick and agile enough to navigate around the race carnage but they did encounter a few minor on-track collisions. "The whole race was a battle with the track conditions and the heat. But the BSI team gave me a great car," said Hall, who finished off the race in the No. 58 MX-5. "The car ran better during the race than it had all week in practice. When Magnus handed the car off to me it was still in great shape. During one of the pit stops for fuel the team was able to make an adjustment on the brakes which really helped me hit the apex. It was great running out there and it would have been even better if the No. 56 car was with me at the finish of the race," said Hall.

The No. 56 car started off the race on a competitive note. Then after the 5th lap while Garcia was in the car the team lost third gear. Garcia was able to maintain speed and stay competitive while out on track. Garcia turned the car over to Buras on lap 31. Buras did what he could with the car but after turning another 20 laps the entire gear box gave out. The team had to bring the No. 56 into the garage after turning 48 laps.

Overall the team was happy with their race results. Team owner, Stu Brumer was content with the 10th place finish. "What was great about the weekend was that each time the cars went out on track they consistently got better. We were able to make adjustments to the cars that worked. I am very pleased with the progress we have been making. We still have a learning curve to deal with but it is not as steep as originally expected," said Brumer.

The team is back on the road with their next race at the Iowa Speedway on April 21.

BSI Racing appreciates support from MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development, KONI, Joe Gibbs Racing Oil, MOMO, SPEEDCOM Communications, BBS, STACK, JustRacing.com and Sun Belt Performance Engines.

BSI Racing offers race car preparation, trackside support, fabrication, and parts for the Mazda MX-5. The race team will be campaigning Mazda MX-5 cars in the KONI Challenge Series and participating in the 2007 SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by Hankook.

For information on MX-5 rental and ownership programs, visit www.bsiracing.com

For more information on Team Garcia visit: www.teamgarciaracing.com

Contact:

Lauren Liebowitz
BSI Racing
Office: 386-677-5778
Cell: 386-237-3987

www.bsiracing.com/miata

Posted On 4/17/07

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SCCA Pro Racing SPEED GT Long Beach Results

Sun, 15 Apr 2007 10:08:33 PST

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED GT Long Beach Results
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

LONG BEACH, Calif. - Results from Sunday's 28-lap, 55.104-mile SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Two race, part of the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, laps, distance behind winner and reason out (if any).

1. (3), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 28.
2. (2), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 28, -1.171.
3. (4), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 28, -1.697.
4. (7), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 28, -2.136.
5. (5), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 28, -4.684.
6. (12), Rob Foster, Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 28, -5.104.
7. (6), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 28, -6.022.
8. (9), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 28, -6.131.
9. (16), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 28, -7.850.
10. (13), James Sofronas, Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 28, -11.038.
11. (18), Sonny Whelen, Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 28, -13.883.
12. (8), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 28, -14.667.
13. (21), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 28, -16.784.
14. (29), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 28, -17.684.
15. (17), Mike Davis, Huntington Beach, Calif., Ford Mustang Cobra, 28, -18.122.
16. (15), Eric Olberz(R), La Canada Flintridge, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 28, -19.082.
17. (22), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 28, -22.782.
18. (23), Brett Pearson, Orlando, Fla., Dodge Viper, 28, -23.655.
19. (26), Stu Frederick, Del mar, Calif., Dodge Viper, 28, -24.732.
20. (24), Ritch Marziale, Tempe, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 28, -50.306.
21. (10), Stu Hayner, Yorba Linda, Calif., Pontiac GTO, 27, -1 lap.
22. (25), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 27, -1 lap.
23. (28), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 27, -1 lap.
24. (14), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 27, -1 lap.
25. (30), Thomas Glenn(R), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 26, -2 laps.
26. (11), Brian Smith, Simpsonville, S.C., Dodge Viper, 25, -3 laps.
27. (1), Ron Fellows, Mississauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 22, -6 laps, Electrical.
28. (20), Joel Feinberg(R), Ft Lauderdale, Fla., Dodge Viper, 21, -7 laps, Accident.
29. (27), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 21, -7 laps, Accident.
30. (19), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 15, -13 laps, Brakes.
31. (31), Tomy Drissi, Hollywood, Calif., Chevrolet Corvette, 0, -28 laps, Mechanical.

Time of race: 50 minutes, 35.432 seconds.
Average speed: 65.353 mph
Margin of victory: 1.171 Seconds

Lap leaders: Laps 1-6, #82 Michael McCann; laps 7-20, #16 Ron Fellows; laps 21-28, #30 Eric Curran
Fastest race lap: #30 Eric Curran, 1:26.348 (82.049 mph), Record
Fastest qualifier: #16 Ron Fellows, 1:25.086 (83.266 mph), Record
Sunoco Hard Charger: #99 Jeff Courtney advanced 15 positions in the race
B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race: #30 Eric Curran
Piloti Rookie of the Race: #20 Dane Moxlow

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED GT Championship Standings After Two of 10 Races

Ps., Driver, Car, Points (wins)
1, Eric Curran, Chevrolet Corvette, 80 (2)
2, Andy Pilgrim, Cadillac CTS-V, 58
3, Michael Galati, Porsche 911 GT-3, 52
4, Lawson Aschenbach, Cadillac CTS-V, 47
5, James Sofronas, Porsche 911 GT-3, 39
6, Randy Pobst, Porsche 911 GT-3, 38
7, Tommy Archer, Dodge Viper, 36
8, Lou Gigliotti, Chevrolet Corvette, 34
9, Rob Foster, Dodge Viper, 30
10, Tomy Drissi, Chevrolet Corvette, 29

SCCA Pro Racing SPEED GT Manufacturers' Championship Presented by RACER After Two of 10 Races

Ps., Manufacturer, Points (wins)
1, Chevrolet, 19 (2)
2, Cadillac, 15
3, Porsche, 6
4, Dodge, 2

Posted On 4/15/07

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Curran Makes It Two In A Row at Long Beach

Sun, 15 Apr 2007 10:02:07 PST

Curran Makes It Two In A Row at Long Beach
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

LONG BEACH, Calif. (April 15, 2007) Eric Curran, of East Hampton, Mass., earned his second-straight SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT win of 2007 on the streets of Long Beach, throttling past polesitter Ron Fellows out of the final corner with eight laps to go, to take the lead and the win at the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach. Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., and Lou Gigliotti, of Dallas, Texas, completed the podium.

The 11-turn, 1.968-mile street course provided plenty of action from start lights to checkered flag and through two full-course cautions. The fireworks began on the start when the No. 82 McCann Plastics/K&N Filters Dodge Viper of Michael McCann had a gem of a start that rocketed him from fifth on the grid to the lead by Turn One. Shortly thereafter, defending SPEED GT Champion Lawson Aschenbach, of West Palm Beach, Fla., got his No. 1 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V backwards in Turn One, causing a major traffic jam. While the entire field would continue, Tomy Drissi pulled his No. 15 Next-The Movie Chevrolet Corvette to a stop just off the race line a handful of corners later, bringing out the first caution.

McCann, of North Canton, Ohio, maintained the lead on the lap six restart, but only for a lap, as polesitter and defending race winner Fellows slid his No. 16 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V past McCann in Turn Six to take the lead. As Fellows pulled away, McCann fell into the clutches of Curran who had made his way around Pilgrim shortly after the restart. Curran's No. 30 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette filled McCann's mirrors for more than five laps before Curran put the hammer down on lap 13, swapping positions with McCann through Turns Five and Six then taking full control of the runner-up spot on the back straight. Watching and waiting, the No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V of Pilgrim followed Curran past McCann and into third.

From there, Curran set his sights on Fellows and the top three began to distance themselves from the rest of the field. Curran appeared to have the advantage on Fellows exiting the hairpin and twice pulled alongside the Cadillac on the front straight, but lost the drag race to Turn One. The third time was the charm however, when Curran finally muscled his way out of Turn 11 ahead of Fellows and sailed into the lead on Shoreline Drive. The pass earned Curran the B&M Oil Coolers Coolest Move of the Race award and the point leader followed it up with the fastest lap of the race, a record 1:26.348 (82.049 mph).

Moments after the lead change, the Vipers of Jeffrey Robbins and Joel Feinberg collided entering Turn One. Both cars slammed into the tire barriers at a high rate of speed and the second full course caution of the day was issued. As the lead cars entered the area of the incident, Fellows' Cadillac came silently to a halt on the front straight, succumbing to what had been a race-long electrical problem.

When green flag racing resumed on lap 28, Curran only needed to defend his lead for one lap, which he did with ease, and cruised to his second SPEED GT victory in a row, on his first visit to Long Beach.

"It's phenomenal," Curran said. "I can't believe that I won again and to do it at Long Beach is just great. Early in the weekend I was having some problems with the brakes and I thought we'd work at keeping the car in the top five to keep the championship lead alive. These Whelen Engineering guys kept working at it and gave me a great car to drive.

"Mike McCann got a great jump at the start and went straight to the lead. It was amazing actually. We went single-file for a while. This place is tough to pass on. You had to wait for an opportunity to make a pass on someone. That's what the whole race was about, waiting for someone to make a mistake.

"Everybody was pushing really hard and I don't know that I had any better of a car than any of the other guys. I was trying to conserve the brakes and the tires and trying not to slide the thing too much. In the end, I got some great passes on some people and got up to Ron to put some pressure on. Man, he doesn't miss a beat. I just looked for a place where I could get by him. I made a couple of attempts in the hairpin and finally got it done."

After starting alongside his teammate and falling back to fourth early in the race, Pilgrim slowly worked his way back to the runner-up spot and successfully defended his position from a hard charging Gigliotti to finish even on the day.

"I had the best seat in the house," Pilgrim said. "I had to make a pretty serious pass on Mike McCann to stay with Eric and Ron. After seven or eight laps, we reached a point where everyone was really sliding around on the track. We were all just trying to do our best to hit our apexes. You couldn't back off even slightly.

"I got on the radio three times and said 'what's the split [to Gigliotti]?' and my crew said 'it's about three seconds.' I said 'no it's not, I can see Lou coming! Tell me what the split is because we're working as hard as we can here and he's still coming.'

"The Cadillac worked very well here today. We've got the heaviest car out there and it's tough to keep sliding it around, but that's what they pay us to do. I knew Long Beach would be very tough and I'm very happy with second place today. There are plenty more races to go and we'll get it."

Gigliotti fought a hard race to claim the final podium spot. A poor start and restart after the first caution dropped Gigliotti all the way to eighth. But the Texan shook it off and began a charge on lap eight that saw him pick up five positions in his No. 28 LG Pro Long Tube Headers Chevrolet Corvette in the closing laps, very nearly stealing second from Pilgrim on the final tour.

"It was tough coming back through to the front," Gigliotti said. "After each pass, I got onto the radio and asked my son 'did you see that one?'"

Michael Galati, of Olmstead, Ohio, had a similar ride in his No. 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey/Porsche 911 GT3, climbing from seventh to a fourth-place finish, making him the fastest of the Porsches at Long Beach. McCann, who was unable to maintain his early race pace, wound up fifth.

Rob Foster (Dodge Viper) had a strong run at Long Beach for the second year in-a-row to finish sixth. He was followed by the Porsche GT3 of Randy Pobst, the Dodge Viper of Tommy Archer and the Chevrolet Corvette of Sebring polesitter Doug Peterson. Hometown favorite James Sofronas (Porsche 911 GT3) completed the top ten.

Young Dane Moxlow (Pontiac GTO) was the highest placing rookie in the field, taking home the Piloti Rookie of the Race award, while Jeff Courtney (Dodge Viper) ended a rough weekend on a positive note by earning the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for advancing 15 positions in the race.

Curran now leads the SCCA SPEED GT points 80 to 58 over Pilgrim. Galati sits in third, with 52 points. Despite a tough weekend at Long Beach, Aschenbach walks away fourth in the Championship, with 47 points, followed by Sofronas, with 39.

With Curran's success, Chevrolet currently leads the SCCA SPEED GT Manufacturers' Championship Presented by Racer, with 19 points. Cadillac is second, with 15, followed by Porsche, with six and Dodge, with two.

The SCCA SPEED GT race from the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach will be broadcast on SPEED, Saturday, April 21, at 3 p.m. (EST).

The SCCA SPEED GT cars return to action in Tooele, Utah, and will meet up with the SPEED Touring Cars at Miller Motorsports Park, May 17-19.

Attached image: Eric Curran leads Andy Pilgrim and Lou Gigliotti at Long Beach.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 4/15/07

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Fellows, Pilgrim Lead SPEED GT Into Long Beach Qualifying

Sat, 14 Apr 2007 12:24:27 PST

Fellows, Pilgrim Lead SPEED GT Into Long Beach Qualifying
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

LONG BEACH, Calif. (April 14, 2007) Andy Pilgrim became the first SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship driver to break the 1 minute 26 second barrier at Long Beach, but it was Team Cadillac teammate Ron Fellows who stole the glory in the final minute of Saturday morning's final practice session.

Driving the No. 16 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V, defending race winner Fellows, of Mississauga, Ontario, turned a fastest lap of 1:25.552 (82.812 mph) with 45 seconds remaining in the brief, 20-minute session. The lap was 0.794-second faster than the existing course record of 1:26.346 set by Tommy Archer in 2006.

"The track was slicker than yesterday even though the lap times were faster," Fellows said. "It was quite a bit warmer yesterday than it was this morning and it took the car longer to come around. The car kept getting faster and faster and I turned off three fast times there at the end.

"It was good, but we've still got some things to work on. I think we're probably going to need another second [in qualifying] to be honest. The Cadillac is stopping and going around corners really well, but we're off the mark going in a straight line."

Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., came in second in the session with a fast time of 1:25.685 (82.684 mph) in his No. 8 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V. Lou Gigliotti, of Dallas, Texas, was third in his No. 28 LG Pro Long Tube Headers Chevrolet Corvette with a lap of 1:25.853 (82.522 mph), the only other car under the 1:26 barrier.

K-PAX Racing teammates Michael Galati and Randy Pobst were fourth and fifth in their Porsche 911 GT3s, turning fast laps of 1:26.029 and 1:26.069, respectively.

Point leader Eric Curran (Chevrolet Corvette), Hollywood's Tomy Drissi (Chevrolet Corvette), Sonny Whelen (Chevrolet Corvette), Archer (Dodge Viper) and Lawson Aschenbach (Cadillac CTS-V) completed the top 10.

Qualifying for Sunday's race will take place at 8:30 a.m. (Pacific) Sunday morning, with the race making its standing start at 4 p.m. following the Champ Car race. To catch all the action via live timing and scoring and live lap notes, please visit the SCCA Pit Board at www.world-challenge.com.

Combined practice results for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Two race, part of the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (16), Ron Fellows, Mississauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 1:25.552, 82.812.
2, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:25.685, 82.684.
3, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 1:25.853, 82.522.
4, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:26.029, 82.353.
5, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:26.069, 82.315.
6, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:26.304, 82.091.
7, (15), Tomy Drissi, Hollywood, Calif., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:26.501, 81.904.
8, (31), Sonny Whelen, Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:27.122, 81.320.
9, (5), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 1:27.154, 81.290.
10, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:27.205, 81.243.
11, (21), Stu Hayner, Yorba Linda, Calif., Pontiac GTO, 1:27.302, 81.152.
12, (14), James Sofronas, Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:27.330, 81.126.
13, (11), Mike Davis, Huntington Beach, Calif., Ford Mustang Cobra, 1:27.402, 81.060.
14, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Grosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 1:27.431, 81.033.
15, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 1:27.445, 81.020.
16, (13), Brian Smith, Simpsonville, S.C., Dodge Viper, 1:27.588, 80.887.
17, (17), Rob Foster, Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:27.590, 80.886.
18, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:27.932, 80.571.
19, (7), Brett Pearson, Orlando, Fla., Dodge Viper, 1:28.692, 79.881.
20, (29), Eric Olberz(R), La Canada Flintridge, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:28.883, 79.709.
21, (87), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:28.908, 79.686.
22, (3), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 1:28.923, 79.673.
23, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 1:28.959, 79.641.
24, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:29.574, 79.094.
25, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 1:29.854, 78.848.
26, (56), Ritch Marziale, Tempe, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:29.866, 78.837.
27, (2), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 1:29.997, 78.722.
28, (79), Joel Feinberg(R), Ft Lauderdale, Fla., Dodge Viper, 1:30.134, 78.603.
29, (57), Stu Frederick, Del mar, Calif., Dodge Viper, 1:30.630, 78.172.
30, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 1:31.365, 77.544.
31, (55), Thomas Glenn(R), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:32.191, 76.849.
32, (27), Gary Sheehan, Milford, Mass., Subaru WRX STi, 1:40.422, 70.550.

Attached image: The No. 16 Cadillac CTS-V of Ron Fellows.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 4/14/07

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Fellows Fast in Friday Long Beach SPEED GT Practice

Fri, 13 Apr 2007 07:11:39 PST

Fellows Fast in Friday Long Beach SPEED GT Practice
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Pro Racing

LONG BEACH, Calif. (April 13, 2007) Defending race winner Ron Fellows, of Mississauga, Ontario, paced the opening practice for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Championship Round Two race, part of the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach. Michael Galati, of Olmsted, Ohio, and Lou Gigliotti, of Dallas, Texas, completed the top three.

Driving the No. 16 XM/Mobil 1/Motorola/Bose Cadillac CTS-V, Fellows turned a fastest lap of 1:26.670 (81.745 mph) on his fifth lap around the 11-turn, 1.968-mile street circuit. The lap was 0.324-second shy of Tommy Archer's 2006 qualifying mark of 1:26.346.

"I enjoy the street circuits," said Fellows. "Especially from the Trans-Am stuff I've done in the past. It's fun be aggressive on the streets with lined concrete walls, but staying out of trouble is key. On a street circuit, even making a small mistake, you could hit a concrete wall and that makes it tough. You need to be aggressive and very precise at the same time.

"The nice thing is the Cadillac is similar to the Trans-Am cars and similar to the Showroom Stock Camaro I raced in Canada. It feels pretty comfortable out here."

Making his second appearance in the No. 23 K-PAX Racing Porsche 911 GT3 and his first laps around the Long Beach circuit, five-time series Champion Galati turned a fastest lap of 1:27.035 (81.402 mph) midway through the 25-minute session.

Gigliotti, who led the first seven laps of the 2006 race, was third in his No. 28 LG Pro Long Tube Headers Chevrolet Corvette with a fast time of 1:27.187 (81.260 mph).

Fellows' teammate Andy Pilgrim, of Boca Raton, Fla., was fourth quick in the No. 8 Cadillac with a fast time of 1:27.302. Sonny Whelen, of Old Saybrook, Conn., completed the top five in his No. 31 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet Corvette with a time of 1:27.664.

In all, 32 cars turned a time in the session. The series hits the track for the only time Saturday at 9:35 a.m. (Pacific). To follow the session via live timing and scoring as well as live notes, please visit the SCCA Pit Board through www.world-challenge.com.

Results from the first practice session for Sunday's SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge GT Round Two race, part of the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach on the Long Beach Street Circuit, with position, car number in parentheses, driver, hometown, car, fastest lap time, and speed in miles per hour.

1, (16), Ron Fellows, Missiauga, Ontario, Cadillac CTS-V, 1:26.670, 81.744.
2, (23), Michael Galati, Olmsted, Ohio, Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:27.035, 81.401.
3, (28), Lou Gigliotti, Dallas, Texas, Chevrolet Corvette, 1:27.187, 81.259.
4, (8), Andy Pilgrim, Boca Raton, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:27.302, 81.152.
5, (31), Sonny Whelen, Old Saybrook, Conn., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:27.664, 80.817.
6, (22), Randy Pobst, Gainesville, Ga., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:27.751, 80.737.
7, (30), Eric Curran, East Hampton, Mass., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:27.798, 80.694.
8, (15), Tomy Drissi, Hollywood, Calif., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:27.815, 80.678.
9, (1), Lawson Aschenbach, W. Palm Beach, Fla., Cadillac CTS-V, 1:27.839, 80.656.
10, (5), Tommy Archer, Duluth, Minn., Dodge Viper, 1:28.371, 80.171.
11, (21), Stu Hayner, Yorba Linda, Calif., Pontiac GTO, 1:28.620, 79.945.
12, (11), Mike Davis, Huntington Beach, Calif., Ford Mustang Cobra, 1:29.081, 79.532.
13, (14), James Sofronas, Newport Beach, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:29.095, 79.519.
14, (17), Rob Foster, Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:29.326, 79.314.
15, (82), Michael McCann, North Canton, Ohio, Dodge Viper, 1:29.721, 78.964.
16, (87), Doug Peterson, Bonita Springs, Fla., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:29.846, 78.855.
17, (20), Dane Moxlow(R), Gosse Ile, Mich., Pontiac GTO, 1:29.905, 78.803.
18, (12), Brian Kubinski(R), Plainfield, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:30.127, 78.609.
19, (7), Brett Pearson, Orlando, Fla., Dodge Viper, 1:30.311, 78.449.
20, (56), Ritch Marziale, Tempe, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:30.331, 78.431.
21, (13), Brian Smith, Simpsonville, S.C., Dodge Viper, 1:30.514, 78.273.
22, (3), Scotty B. White, Puyallup, Wash., Dodge Viper, 1:30.574, 78.221.
23, (34), Tony Gaples, Libertyville, Ill., Chevrolet Corvette, 1:30.671, 78.137.
24, (29), Eric Olberz(R), La Canada Flintridge, Calif., Porsche 911 GT-3, 1:31.220, 77.667.
25, (57), Stu Frederick, Del mar, Calif., Dodge Viper, 1:31.623, 77.325.
26, (79), Joel Feinberg(R), Ft Lauderdale, Fla., Dodge Viper, 1:32.184, 76.855.
27, (2), Cindi Lux(R), Aloha, Ore., Dodge Viper, 1:32.555, 76.547.
28, (6), Jeffrey Robbins(R), Southfield, Mich., Dodge Viper, 1:32.570, 76.534.
29, (05), Jason Daskalos(R), Albuquerque, N.M., Dodge Viper, 1:32.626, 76.488.
30, (55), Thomas Glenn(R), Phoenix, Ariz., Dodge Viper, 1:33.165, 76.045.
31, (99), Jeff Courtney, Slinger, Wis., Dodge Viper, 1:36.401, 73.493.
32, (27), Gary Sheehan, Milford, Mass., Subaru WRX STi, 1:40.422, 70.550.

Attached image: The No. 16 Cadillac CTS-V of Ron Fellows.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 4/13/07

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BSI Racing: Ready for the Homestead-Miami Speedway

Fri, 13 Apr 2007 11:10:23 PST

BSI Racing: Ready for the Homestead-Miami Speedway
By Lauren Liebowitz, BSI Racing

After waiting for the winter winds to die down the Florida based race team, BSI Racing and Team Garcia, are ready for their first Spring race at the Homestead-Miami Speedway this Sunday in the KONI Challenge. The team will be racing the No. 56 and No. 58 Mazda MX-5 Joe Gibbs/MOMO sponsored race cars.

With more than two months in between races, the orange and black Mazda roadsters have seen plenty of track time thanks to three private test sessions hosted by BSI Racing. Countless hours and laps have been logged in the brand new MX-5 race car throughout the three track test sessions. Along with knowledge gained from the track, the team is bringing with them years of race experience at the Homestead-Miami Speedway. BSI Racing has been participating in races at Homestead with the Spec Miata for over 10 years. Stu Brumer, team owner, has a considerable amount of knowledge and data from the track. Brumer and Florida drivers, Carlos Garcia and Todd Buras in the No. 56 MX-5 have had numerous club events and race wins at the Homestead track.

The No. 58 MX-5 will be driven by Northern California teammates Magnus Karlsson and Justin Hall. This will be their first experience on the South Florida race track. Hall is a road racer in the purest sense of the term having only raced on more traditional road circuits. This 2007 season is his first time driving the "rovals", which is so prevalent in KONI Challenge Series. Hall and Karlsson hope to apply the knowledge gained via the Daytona tests and races in January to a successful weekend here at Homestead. Both drivers are confident in their skill and have full confidence in their Sunday race track debut.

Garcia is a local Miami resident and will be racing in front of friends and family. The hometown track advantage and his test sessions with BSI will help his race day experience. "We are heading into Homestead with high expectations and a positive outlook. With each of our tests we accomplished so much. The MX-5 has proven itself to be a highly adjustable car," said Garcia.

BSI Racing appreciates support from MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development, KONI, Joe Gibbs Racing Oil, MOMO, SPEEDCOM Communications, BBS, STACK, JustRacing.com and Sun Belt Performance Engines.

BSI Racing offers race car preparation, trackside support, fabrication, and parts for the Mazda MX-5. The race team will be campaigning Mazda MX-5 cars in the KONI Challenge Series and participating in the 2007 SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by Hankook.

For information on MX-5 rental and ownership programs, visit www.bsiracing.com

For more information on Team Garcia visit: www.teamgarciaracing.com

Contact:

Lauren Liebowitz
BSI Racing
Office: 386-677-5778
Cell: 386-237-3987
www.bsiracing.com/miata

Posted On 4/13/07

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Charity Motorsports Group Announces Powerchip As Its Official Engine Management Technology Partner

Fri, 06 Apr 2007 03:06:10 PST

Charity Motorsports Group Announces Powerchip As Its Official Engine Management Technology Partner
By Aaron Nichols, Charity Motorsports Group

SAN MATEO, Calif. 6-APRIL-2007 -- Charity Motorsports Group, Inc. (CMG) has partnered with Powerchip Inc. for the 2007 BMW CCA road racing season. Powerchip has agreed to provide their ECU engine management components for CMG's e46 BMW M3 race car.

"Powerchip comes highly recommended from our engine builder so naturally I am really happy that they decided to partner with us for 2007. As a recognized leader in ECU technology, I am confident their involvement will make a big difference in the performance on our BMW M3 race car. We truly appreciate their help." Aaron Nichols, Founder of CMG, Inc.

"For us, to be involved in motor sports of any kind gives us feelings of satisfaction. But knowing that we are helping CMG increase the awareness of the seriousness and associated dangers of Cancer, with the help of their premier partners at The Lance Armstrong Foundation, our satisfaction is transferred into passion. And with such an inspirational and far-reaching message, CMG will undoubtedly stay atop of the winner's podium" Travis Cattach, Powerchip.

Cancer Facts*

More than 10 million Americans are currently living with, through or beyond cancer
More than 1.3 million people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer this year
Of adults diagnosed with cancer today, 64% will be alive five years from now
One in three people will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime
With every second of 2006 two Americans were diagnosed with cancer and one died. That is like re-living the horror of 9/11 every two days for the entire year!

Charity Motorsports Group (CMG) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization headquartered in San Mateo, California. Founded by long time motor sport competitor, Aaron Nichols, CMG participates in various motor sport competitions and events to spread the message of and raise funds for its premiere partner, The Lance Armstrong Foundation.

Powerchip is a world leading developer and provider of electronic performance and related enhancements for engines, transmissions and other systems for automotive, marine and other markets. Beginning in Australia in 1991 and now with offices established around the World, Powerchip has expanded to over 47 countries around the world, including one of it's most significant operations here in North America - at their facility in Los Angeles, California.

The Lance Armstrong Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Austin, Texas. Founded in 1997 by cancer survivor and champion cyclist, Lance Armstrong, the LAF inspires and empowers people with cancer. The LAF believes that in the battle with cancer, unity is strength, knowledge is power and attitude is everything.

*Copyright the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

Contacts:

Aaron Nichols
CMG, Inc.
510-300-5255
anichols@charitymotorsports.com
www.charitymotorsports.org

Travis Cattach
Powerchip
310-235-1122
t@powerchipgroup.com
www.powerchipgroup.com

Posted On 4/6/07

This story has been read 51549 time(s).

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CMG/Toyo Tires Partnership Featured In April 2007 Smithers Report

Fri, 06 Apr 2007 03:05:56 PST

CMG/Toyo Tires Partnership Featured In April 2007 Smithers Report
By Aaron Nichols, Charity Motorsports Group

SAN MATEO, CA/Akron, OH 6-APRIL-2007 -- The newly formed partnership between Charity Motorsports Group, Inc. and Toyo Tires has been featured in the April 02 edition of The Smithers Report, the official "News Digest of Activities in the Tire Industry". The report is published weekly by Smithers Scientific Services, Inc., an independent testing, research, and consulting firm. The Smithers Report is a digest of activities in the tire/tyre industry which is either faxed on a weekly basis or e-mailed daily to busy senior executives at tire/tyre manufacturers and raw material suppliers worldwide. Smithers serves their clients through a variety of independent testing and consulting services in the areas of materials, rubber, tire, vehicle, wheel, and winter. You can find more info at their website - www.smithersscientific.com. You may also get information on viewing the report at www.smithersreports.com.

"Obviously this is an unexpected and exciting surprise resulting from our partnership with Toyo Tires. It is great to know that many of the top executives in the tires industry around the world will read about what we are accomplishing at Charity Motorsports Groups as well as the assistance that Toyo is giving us" Aaron Nichols, Founder of CMG, Inc.

"We are happy to support Charity Motorsports Group and their goal of raising funds and awareness for a cause as worthy as The Lance Armstrong Foundation," - Steve Hutchinson, Senior director of Sales and Marketing for Toyo.

Cancer Facts*

More than 10 million Americans are currently living with, through or beyond cancer
More than 1.3 million people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer this year
Of adults diagnosed with cancer today, 64% will be alive five years from now
One in three people will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime
With every second of 2006 two Americans were diagnosed with cancer and one died. That is like re-living the horror of 9/11 every two days for the entire year!

Charity Motorsports Group (CMG) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization headquartered in San Mateo, California. Founded by long time motor sport competitor, Aaron Nichols, CMG participates in various motor sport competitions and events to spread the message of and raise funds for its premiere partner, The Lance Armstrong Foundation.

Toyo Tire (USA) Corporation manufactures and distributes a complete line of high performance and original equipment replacement tires for passenger car, light truck, commercial truck, bus, off-road and construction applications. To learn more about Toyo, log on to toyo.com.

The Lance Armstrong Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Austin, Texas. Founded in 1997 by cancer survivor and champion cyclist, Lance Armstrong, the LAF inspires and empowers people with cancer. The LAF believes that in the battle with cancer, unity is strength, knowledge is power and attitude is everything.

*Copyright the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

Contacts:

Aaron Nichols
CMG, Inc.
510-300-5255
anichols@charitymotorsports.com
www.charitymotorsports.org

Travis Cattach
Powerchip
310-235-1122
t@powerchipgroup.com
www.powerchipgroup.com

Posted On 4/6/07

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Arizona Region SCCA Spring Invitational Official Race Results

Mon, 02 Apr 2007 03:50:52 PST

Arizona Region SCCA Spring Invitational Official Race Results
By Arizona Region Timing & Scoring, SCCA

The final race resuls from the Arizona Region SCCA Spring Invitational 2007 are available here:

Race 1 - March 31, 2007

Race 1 - April 1, 2007

Adobe Reader software or other PDF reader is required to view these results. Download Adobe Reader here.

Visit the AZ Region SCCA web site here.

Posted On 4/2/07

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USERA Spec 9 Championship Will Race on Hoosier Tires

Fri, 30 Mar 2007 12:10:58 PST

USERA Spec 9 Championship Will Race on Hoosier Tires
By Ken Grammer, USERA

DANVILLE, VA. (February 27, 2007) The United States Endurance Racing Association announced today that Hoosier Tires will serve as the Official Tire Supplier of the USERA Spec 9 Championship. Hoosier will become the spec tire for the Championship and will provide at-event support to USERA teams.

Hoosier has been involved at all levels of sports car racing, from support programs for club racing through their premier program, the Grand-Am Rolex and Koni Challenge endurance series.

"Our Spec 9 Championship is positioned as a feeder series for drivers moving from club racing on their way to endurance racing in Porsche sports cars," said Ken Grammer, President of USERA. "Hoosier is already the spec tire for the Grand-Am Rolex and Koni Challenge series, and the Spec 9 Championship is serving as a support series for three Grand-Am events in 2007. Having Hoosier as our series tire supplier is a great fit for drivers planning to progress from USERA to Grand-Am's Koni Challenge Series."

The next event on the 2007 USERA Spec 9 Championship calendar in April 22 at Iowa Speedway on the Grand-Am Koni Challenge event weekend. The Championship includes races at exciting sports car venues including Mosport International Raceway, Watkins Glen, Mid-Ohio and Virginia International Raceway. Full details on the 2007 schedule, as well as additional information on the USERA Spec 9 Championship, can be found at the series web site at www.usenduro.com.

About USERA
USERA operates and sanctions the Spec 9 Championship for Porsche 911 sports cars, and the USERA Endurance Championship for Spec Miata, Spec Racer Fords and IT cars. For more information on USERA, visit www.usenduro.com.

Contact: Ken Grammer, President 434-203-3103;ken@usenduro.com

Posted On 3/30/07

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Charity Motorsports Group Supports The Lance Amstrong Foundation in 2007

Thu, 29 Mar 2007 05:49:16 PST

Charity Motorsports Group Supports The Lance Amstrong Foundation in 2007
By Aaron Nichols, Charity Motorsports Group

JustRacing.com is proud to assist the efforts of Charity Motorsports Group in their quest to support The Lance Armstrong Foundation by raising funds to empower people fighting cancer.

Charity Motorsports Group, Inc. (CMG) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization headquartered in San Mateo, California. Founded by long time motor sport competitor, Aaron Nichols, CMG participates in various motor sport competitions and events to spread the message of its premiere partner, The Lance Armstrong Foundation (The LAF). Through their partnership with The LAF, CMG raises funds to assist in the efforts that inspire and empower people with cancer and those that have chosen to take up the fight against it. For its first year of partnership with The LAF, CMG has set an aggressive goal of raising $100,000 dollars for the foundation to assist in research and medical care for those affected by cancer.

So how was the idea for Charity Motorsports Group born? We'll let CMG Founder and Driver, Aaron Nichols, explain how the concept came about. Aaron grew up on the beaches of Santa Cruz, California. After discovering a passion for motor sports he began amateur motorcycle road racing in the early 1990s. Aaron soon rose in the local rankings and transitioned to a successful professional racing career in the American Motorcycle Association's 250 Grand Prix class.

In 1999 Aaron hung up the helmet to pursue his entrepreneurial goals and strengthen his business skills. After six years of successfully navigating the dot-com world, Aaron came full circle and established Charity Motorsports Group, Inc. Fueled by his new found love for automobile racing and the desire to use motor sports as a vehicle to make a difference for a cause, Aaron partnered with the Lance Armstrong Foundation's Grassroots Program.

"Throughout my racing career I have always been amazed at the amount of money that companies and fans will pour into supporting a particular driver/team/commercial product. At the same time I have always wondered why none of these entities use this same vehicle to help those in need. Many charitable organizations enjoy national exposure through their relationship with the NFL, Major League Baseball and other professional sports organizations but this aspect of philanthropy seems to be absent from the motor sports world. This is why I created CMG.

Specifically I wanted to lend help to the fight against cancer. Partnering with The Lance Armstrong Foundation for this seemed only natural. I, like many, was inspired by the amazing story of Lance Armstrong. People have been touched and inspired by Lance's story and automatically think of him when the word cancer survivor is mentioned and we all know how successful The LAF has been in helping other cancer patients.

Having been indirectly affected by cancer and knowing full well of the worldwide threat this disease poses to humanity, I wanted to somehow contribute to the fight against this epidemic. Of course, I was drawn to the huge machine against cancer that had become Lance Armstrong and LAF. If this guy, who can pretty much do whatever he wants with his life, can use this celebrity to do good.....to help others beat this disease as he did.....to give back, what can I do? How can I help?? Well, I may not be a celebrity or a wealthy individual but I can help spread the word. I may not be able to perform research or create new medicines but I can help build awareness and raise funds for those that can do this research. I may not have all the resources of the LAF but I can help them continue on. Although BMW CCA may not be the equivalent of the NFL in the motor sports world, it is a start. Hopefully, and it seems to be the case so far, this venture I have created will catch on and we can grow the exposure into other racing series."

For the 2007 BMW CCA season, CMG will campaign a BMW e46 M3. The car is being engineered and maintained exclusively by Evosport, Inc of Huntington Beach, California. Having participated in Evosport's "arrive-and-drive" program in 2006 in an e36 M3, Aaron felt Evosport's knowledge and success in BMW tuning/racing made them the perfect partner for 2007.

"Brad and the guys at Evosport have been great. They really produce top quality work. A lot of the teams I raced with/against professionally in the AMA were not as well prepared as Brad's crew. The decision to have them build my e46 M3 was a no-brainer. Not only that, these guys know how to have fun too, which is just as important as winning. We are like a little family out there at the track and it is a great feeling."

Many of auto racing's top companies have also signed on to help CMG. Just this month alone has seen Rotora, Powerchip, and Toyo Tires step up and more are expected. Auto Kennel and Just Racing.com are also doing their part.

"It's a great feeling to have these organizations help. We all know racing is not cheap and anything they can do to help us focus on our job or winning races and raising donations is SO appreciated!"

In today's world it seems that nearly everyone we know has been affected by cancer in some way, either directly or indirectly. Whether we are battling this disease ourselves or have needed to be there for a loved one who is in the fight of their own life, cancer, it seems, is everywhere. CMG is hoping to help educate the motor sport community on the advances being made against this disease and to convince that community to open their hearts and pocket books and assist The LAF in its continued success in fighting this disease.

Cancer Facts*

More than 10 million Americans are currently living with, through or beyond cancer
More than 1.3 million people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer this year
Of adults diagnosed with cancer today, 64% will be alive five years from now
One in three people will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime
With every second of 2006 two Americans were diagnosed with cancer and one died. That is like re-living the horror of 9/11 every two days for the entire year!

*Copyright the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

For more information on CMG visit their website www.charitymotorsports.org or contact them directly at the following:

Charity Motorsports Group, Inc.
3555 S. El Camino Real, #402
San Mateo, CA 94403-3415
510-300-5255 - phone
510-578-7652 - fax
contactus@charitymotorsports.org

Charity Motorsports Group, Inc. is a recognized partner of the Lance Armstrong Foundation through its Grassroots Fundraising program. They enjoy the support of the following organizations Evosport Inc., Rotora, Toyo Tires, Powerchip, Inc.

Posted On 3/29/07

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Pacific Region VP Election Reporting Correction

Thu, 29 Mar 2007 11:19:31 PST

Pacific Region VP Election Reporting Correction
By Wynne Smith, BMW CCA

Greenville, SC March 29, 2007 -- On February 16, 2007 following the 2007 BMW CCA national election, it was reported by the BMW CCA National Office that the winner in the election for Pacific Regional Vice President was Michael W. Mills. It was discovered on March 27, 2007 that the results of the Pacific Regional Vice President election had not been reported correctly due to transposition of numbers, and that the actual winner of the election was Steven Johnson.

According to BMW CCA President Scott Blazey, "As soon as we were made aware that the election results may have been incorrectly reported, we verified the results with the independent accounting firm that handles the collection and tabulation of our election ballots. Upon confirming that the accounting firm had provided the correct numbers and that a mistake had been made when the National Office reported the results, we immediately informed the two candidates and then prepared this news release to let the members know what happened. We heartily welcome Steve Johnson to the Board of Directors and look forward to his contributions to the Club. At the same time, we're sorry to not have Mike Mills on the Board because we know the quality of work he has put forth for the Club and his chapter over many years. It was a close election between two very qualified candidates but in the end, we can only seat the individual elected by the members of the region. We regret the reporting error and apologize to the two candidates and all the members of the Pacific Region."

Blazey noted that the election reporting procedures required by the Club's Operations Manual were followed. He added, "Our current procedures didn't include having multiple checks of the election results news release because we never experienced this kind of error before. For future elections, we will initiate a system of double checks that should preclude any erroneous announcements." He reiterated that the election process in which the results were tabulated by an independent accounting firm worked just as it should, and that the number transposition error took place after the results were delivered to the Club. "The members should have confidence that the votes they cast are handled and counted properly and the results reported swiftly and correctly. This Board will do whatever it takes to make sure the members can trust that their Club election is conducted and reported properly."

About BMW CCA
The BMW Car Club of America has over 76,000 members and 65 chapters within the United States. Headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina, BMW CCA's mission is to enhance the BMW experience for its members by providing services, support, information, and activities that promote camaraderie and encourage social awareness and responsibility. BMW CCA publishes Roundel magazine monthly. The BMW CCA National Office may be reached at (864) 250-0022.

Posted On 3/29/07

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Charity Motorsports Group Announces Toyo Tires As Its Official Tire Technology Partner

Wed, 28 Mar 2007 10:22:50 PST

Charity Motorsports Group Announces Toyo Tires As Its Official Tire Technology Partner
By Aaron Nichols, Charity Motorsports

SAN MATEO, Calif. 28-MARCH-2007 07:05 AM -- Charity Motorsports Group, Inc. (CMG) has partnered with Toyo Tires for the 2007 BMW CCA road racing season. Toyo has agreed to provide their Proxes RA-1 for CMG's e46 BMW M3 race car.

"We are excited to have Toyo as a premier partner for 2007! Toyo is a recognized leader in tire technology and we used their RA-1 on our e36 M3 last year with great success. Obviously we cannot be more pleased to have Toyo on board for 2007. Organizations like Toyo recognize what we are trying to accomplish at CMG and have stepped up to do their part. We truly appreciate their help." Aaron Nichols, Founder of CMG, Inc.

Cancer Facts*

More than 10 million Americans are currently living with, through or beyond cancer
More than 1.3 million people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer this year
Of adults diagnosed with cancer today, 64% will be alive five years from now
One in three people will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime
With every second of 2006 two Americans were diagnosed with cancer and one died. That is like re-living the horror of 9/11 every two days for the entire year!

Charity Motorsports Group (CMG) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization headquartered in San Mateo, California. Founded by long time motor sport competitor, Aaron Nichols, CMG participates in various motor sport competitions and events to spread the message of and raise funds for its premiere partner, The Lance Armstrong Foundation.

Toyo Tire (USA) Corporation manufactures and distributes a complete line of high performance and original equipment replacement tires for passenger car, light truck, commercial truck, bus, off-road and construction applications. To learn more about Toyo, log on to toyo.com.

The Lance Armstrong Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Austin, Texas. Founded in 1997 by cancer survivor and champion cyclist, Lance Armstrong, the LAF inspires and empowers people with cancer. The LAF believes that in the battle with cancer, unity is strength, knowledge is power and attitude is everything.

*Copyright the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

Aaron Nichols
CMG, Inc.
510-300-5255
anichols@charitymotorsports.com
www.charitymotorsports.org

Julie Sediq
Toyo Tire (USA) Corp
800-678-3250 x2238
SediqJ@toyotires.com
www.toyo.com

Posted On 3/28/07

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Charity Motorsports Group Announces Rotora Inc. As Its Official Braking Technology Partner

Wed, 28 Mar 2007 10:21:53 PST

Charity Motorsports Group Announces Rotora Inc. As Its Official Braking Technology Partner
By Aaron Nichols, Charity Motorsports

SAN MATEO, Calif. 28-MARCH-2007 07:05 AM -- Charity Motorsports Group, Inc. (CMG) has partnered with Rotora, Inc., the leader in high performance braking systems, for the 2007 BMW CCA road racing season. Rotora has agreed to provide complete braking systems and components for CMG's e46 BMW M3 race car.

"We are excited to have Rotora as a premier partner for 2007! Rotora is a recognized leader in braking technology and we really cannot accept anything less for our M3. It's organizations like Rotora that recognize what we are trying to accomplish at CMG and have stepped up to do their part. We truly appreciate their help." Aaron Nichols, Founder of CMG, Inc.

Cancer Facts*

More than 10 million Americans are currently living with, through or beyond cancer
More than 1.3 million people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer this year
Of adults diagnosed with cancer today, 64% will be alive five years from now
One in three people will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime
With every second of 2006 two Americans were diagnosed with cancer and one died. That is like re-living the horror of 9/11 every two days for the entire year!

Charity Motorsports Group (CMG) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization headquartered in San Mateo, California. Founded by long time motor sport competitor, Aaron Nichols, CMG participates in various motor sport competitions and events to spread the message of and raise funds for its premiere partner, The Lance Armstrong Foundation.

Chino, California-based Rotora, Inc. is a major aftermarket manufacturer of high performance brake systems and components including racing calipers, discs, and pads ranging from original equipment aftermarket replacement parts to racing and high performance upgrades. With 3 company-owned production foundries across the globe, Rotora's high quality and specifications are maintained through strict quality control inspection, which assures that every component meet worldwide ISO 9000 quality standards. With the engineering research and development operating in-house, Rotora oversees all phases of development from conceptual design to final production. Rotora proves it s braking systems technology with multiple motorsports venues including D1 Gran Prix and SCCA.

The Lance Armstrong Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Austin, Texas. Founded in 1997 by cancer survivor and champion cyclist, Lance Armstrong, the LAF inspires and empowers people with cancer. The LAF believes that in the battle with cancer, unity is strength, knowledge is power and attitude is everything.

*Copyright the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

Contacts:

Aaron Nichols
CMG, Inc.
510-300-5255
anichols@charitymotorsports.com
www.charitymotorsports.org

Loren Ho
Rotora, Inc.
909-590-1712x102
loren@rotora.com
www.rotora.com

Posted On 3/28/07

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Chip Herr's Insight: SPEED World Challenge at Sebring 2007

Wed, 28 Mar 2007 09:36:33 PST

Chip Herr's Insight: SPEED World Challenge at Sebring 2007
By Chip Herr, STaSIS Engineering World Challenge Team

JustRacing.com is proud to present Part 1 of an exclusive 10-part column by World Challenge veteran and STaSIS Audi driver Chip Herr over the course of the 2007 SPEED World Challenge Touring Car season.

After a long winter, anyone that loves racing is waiting for Sebring. It isn't any different for drivers as it is for the fans. Every winter while putting together sponsors for the upcoming year and testing with the team in the off season, we are always excited about the 12 Hours of Sebring. For the STaSIS touring car team it is no different. Each year we add some new crew members to the team and, as this is very much a team sport, getting to know each and every new face is a very important part of bringing a team together. This year I have two new teammates in Ian Baas and Dino Crescentini. Both drivers are nationally known. Ian has driven many different cars but mostly Porsche's here in the states and over in Europe. Dino we all know from his successful seasons with the Tri-Point Mazda where he had many great finishes in SPEED World Challenge Touring Car. It turns out that Sebring was the first time that all of us ran together and it served to underscore that we have a very strong driver line up this year to contend for the manufactures/drivers championship. We have all tested but never all together. SCCA has a lot of items that need checked or inspected before the car even hits the track, so the goal on the first day when the team and the drivers show up is to help unload the cars and go through all the paces before the first race of the season.

The first session on track was the traditional Sebring test day and I was so excited just to see my name on the side of the STaSIS Audi again for 2007. I understand how hard it is to be a professional in this career, so I always take the time to thank the people that help me along the way. The first day I ended up making many changes to help the car work for my driving style and also to deal with Sebring's famously rough track surface. A big part of my job is working with our engineers to get the car to have fast corner speed, solid braking, and smooth acceleration. The hard part about Sebring for me is I like a low car that has little shock travel, but Sebring is so bumpy that you have to raise the car and that changes many characteristics of the car's handling. It takes a lot of effort on my part and the engineers to help figure out what we need to get the car to be as fast as possible. At the end of the day I wasn't completely confident and was placed somewhere just outside of the Top Ten.

My teammate Dino was dialed in and was quickest out of all the touring cars. He said he felt very good and the car was really working for him. After each session we spent a lot of time comparing data and learned where we can find speed. Once qualifying came I was lined up in the third spot because that is where I finished last year in the championship. I found some space to lay my hot lap with fresh tires and during the lap the car seemed to have moderate oversteer, more than normal, but I knew that the car would be great at the end of the race. The car changes from the start of the race to the end. One thing a driver must do is decide what is more important: a fast car on the start of the race or a fast car at the end of the end. I ended up in the 10th place spot. I wasn't very excited about the way I qualified but I was only .2 seconds from the fourth place spot. Our team was worried about SCCA changing our rev limit in first gear which will affect our launch. When the race started and the lights went out I was very lucky to have three cars sleeping on the line and moved into the 7th spot.

Running very close to Sofronas and Thomas in the BMWs, I could tell that the Bimmers were very strong as they have been historically in World Challenge. Coming out of turn 7 (the slow safety pin), Thomas was on the inside of Wittmer in the Acura and there was contact between the two, putting Thomas into a tank slapper which really checked up Sofronas. I had to make an evasive move through the grass to avoid contact and ended up getting by both BMWs which put me into the 5th spot. During the race I was having to make adjustments on the fly on the brake bias to help maximize my braking. I was losing the front 2 Acuras and 2 Mazdas a little bit at a time. The 4 cars were tucked in a draft and I was all by myself trying to run consistently and yet hoping for rain at the same time. Every lap on the back straight away I was praying to the rain to come. That would have been the only way to have any hope of getting on the podium. I did see that I was catching Wittmer and once I made a pass on that Acura and that moved me into the 4th spot. The rest of the race I spent trying to catch the front three - Altenburg, Pobst, and Kleinubing - but my car wasn't quite quick enough on the straights to catch them. I ended up finishing in the 4th spot which is a good start to the 2007 season. Unfortunately, 1 minute after the checkered came out it started to rain. I guess the stars weren't aligned for me that day.

Coming into the pits I found out that I had won the Sunoco Hard Charger Award for passing the most cars during the race and ended up on the podium with Ms. Sebring! In the end, STaSIS and I got off to a great start and we are all looking forward to the 2007 SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship.

I want to thank Eprodius.com, SafeRacer.com , STaSIS Engineering, Traqmate, Stoner Car Care Products, and Clear Capital in helping to make this a successful Touring Car season.

- Chip

For more information about Chip Herr and his racing career, please visit ww.ChipHerr.com.

Posted On 3/28/07

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KUMHO Tires Renews USERA Contingency Program

Fri, 23 Mar 2007 09:07:00 PST

KUMHO Tires Renews USERA Contingency Program
By Ken Grammer, USERA

DANVILLE, VA. (March 23, 2007) KUMHO Tires has renewed their contingency program for the 2007 USERA Endurance Championship Spec Miata class. KUMHO is offering $1,800 per race for the top five finishers if running KUMHO tires.

The contingency program requires six cars in the SM class, and will pay cash directly to the teams as follows:

1st - $700
2nd - $500
3rd - $300
4th - $2300
5th - $100

In addition to the race weekend awards, KUMHO is also posting a year-end prize fund which will be awarded to the highest finishing KUMHO Team cars as follows:

1st - $1500
2nd - $1000
3rd - $800
4th - $700
5th - $600
6th - $500
7th - $400
8th - $300
9th - $200
10th - $100

Additional conditions apply, and the full program overview can be found at http://www.usenduro.com/forms/2007%20Kumho%20Program.pdf.

The USERA Endurance Championship event will be held April 22, 2007 at Iowa Speedway. The current 2007 season schedule can be found at www.usenduro.com.

About USERA
USERA operates and sanctions the Spec 9 Championship for Porsche 911 sports cars, and the USERA Endurance Championship for Spec Miata, Spec Racer Fords and IT cars. For more information on USERA, visit www.usenduro.com

Contact: Ken Grammer, President 434-797-1866; ken@usenduro.com

Attached Image: None
Credit: USERA, Inc.

Posted On 3/23/07

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Formula TR PRO Series Rounds 3 & 4

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 09:33:32 PST

Formula TR PRO Series Rounds 3 & 4
By Mike Mills, ADZEN

The second of ten weekends of the 2007 Formula TR PRO Series is complete with four of the twenty rounds of competition in the record books. Only a week after the series last visit to California Speedway the drivers were still fresh and anxious to improve there times on the road course which includes a large section of the oval.

Friday March 16 was a test day with the cars taking to the track for a total of 5 sessions. Almost all the cars took to the track for each session. Unfortunately, Kerstin Smutny in her #2, Position One Motorsports Formula Renault 1600 suffered a devastating gearbox failure that forced her to withdraw from the weekends competition.

Round 3 Update

The Formula Renault 1600s fielded 6 cars and despite the withdrawal of Kerstin Smutny there was one young lady driver, Christine Braun who joined the series in her Kimball Williams Racing #55.

Ryan Booth #4 Knudsen Racing, served notice taking the Formula Renault 1600 poll three tenths faster than his previous best just a week earlier. John Knudsen took the Formula Renault 2000 poll in his #7 Knudsen Racing entry a full second faster than his best time of the previous weekend.

The Formula 2000 race saw the front of the field, John Knudsens #7, Bill Goshen's, Goshen Racing #82 and Luis Martinez Jr's, Position One Motorsports #3 maintain there respective starting positions for the entire 13 lap race. Liam Kenny #95 Liam Kenny Racing entry was in fourth for 11 laps but suffered a suspension failure and was not running at the finish. The action took place between Christian Franck, #16 Knudsen Racing, Dino Bruno, #33 Team Bruno, Bob Siska, #15 RJS Racing and Jim Booth, #5 Knudsen Racing with them all shuffling positions for the first two laps and then doing it again in lap 10. At the end John Knudsen crossed the finish line first followed by Bill Goshen with Luis Martinez Jr. in third.

The Formula Renault 1600 race saw position changes throughout the field in almost every lap with Ryan Booth, #4 Knudsen Racing, Sergio Pena, #58 JP Motorsports and Christine Braun, #55 Kimball Williams Racing swapping the top three positions six times. While the top three were trading places Josh Goshen, #83 Goshen Racing, Felice Snider, #85 JP Motorsports and Carlos Munoz, #73 JP Motorsports were also swapping positions frequently. All together it was a very exciting race with Sergio Pena finishing first, followed by Ryan Booth and Christine Braun in third.

Round 4 Update

Qualifying conditions were optimal with John Knudsen capturing the Formula Renault 2000 poll again for Round 4 and Ryan Booth repeating as well taking the Formula Renault 1600 poll both were over a second quicker than the previous day.

After losing the lead on the start of the Formula Renault 2000 race John Knudsen charged back to the lead on the third lap and took complete control of the race. Luis Martinez Jr. and Bill Goshen maintained station for the last 11 laps also. Christian Franck charged forward at the start but fell back to 4 th by lap 3 and retiring after lap 9 with a gearbox issue. On the third lap Liam Kenny had contact with the tire wall on turn 18 coming on to the front straight, his race ended and the field circulated behind the safety car for three laps. At the checkered flag it was John Knudsen in this first back to back first place finishes, Luis Martinez Jr., with fast lap of the race, in second and Bill Goshen in third.

The Formula Renault 1600 race again provided excitement. Due to technical infractions both Sergio Pena's and Felice Snider's qualifying times were disallowed putting them at the back of the grid for the start. Christine Braun took the lead at the start with Ryan Booth getting shuffled back to fourth. By the end of lap 2 Sergio Pena had moved to the front of the field with Ryan Booth close behind. The very next lap Ryan Booth took the lead until the final lap. On the last turn before the checkered flag Ryan and Sergio had contact that resulted in Ryan impacting the tire wall. Sergio went on to the win with Felice Snider in second and Josh Goshen in third. Series officials reviewed the incident and let the results stand. At the awards ceremony when Sergio was presented with the first place trophy he apologized to Ryan for the incident and said Ryan, here you deserve this as he handed the trophy to Ryan in a true demonstration of the sportsmanship that the Formula TR PRO Series strives to impart.

The Championship Series point's contests are tight with only 24 points separating the top four in the Formula Renault 1600 series and 19 points separate the top three in the Formula Renault 2000 series. There are 108 points available over the top four places with points paid to twentieth position for each race making the championship attainable for any of the competitors.

The series has a long six week break but will meet again May 5 & 6 for Rounds 5 & 6 at Willow Springs Raceway in Rosamond, CA.

About Formula TR
Formula TR (Tatuus Renault) provides a development series for young drivers progressing from karting into professional formula car racing as early as age 14. The series was established in 2002 and features both 1600cc and 2000cc carbon fiber open wheel chassis built by Tatuus and powered by Renault. The series consists of 20 races conducted over 10 weekends at tracks throughout the western US. Visit www.FormulaTR.com for more information.

About Adzen
Adzen is a motor sport marketing and management company which provides marketing support for drivers, series, and events as well as website design and update services. Learn more about Adzen at www.Adzen.biz.

Posted On 3/19/07

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Mazda Announces Next Component of Motorsports Ladder

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 01:40:29 PST

Mazda Announces Next Component of Motorsports Ladder
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

SEBRING, Fla. (March 19, 2007) Following its 2006 season reward for an SCCA Club Racing Champion to move up to the SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Presented by Hankook, Mazda announced at Sebring further enhancements to its ladder program, including the awarding of an SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car ride to the 2007 MX-5 Cup Champion.

"We are committed to developing the next generation of racers with a ladder system that provides drivers with Mazda and Mazda-powered open and closed-wheel cars throughout their careers," said Robert Davis, Senior Vice President, Product Development and Quality, and the man responsible for Mazda's North American motorsports operations under the MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development banner. "Similar to our contingency program, these are performance-based rewards. Too often the cost of racing has meant that a promising career has stagnated due to a lack of budget. With this initiative, Mazda will change that."

There will be two paths for Mazda's program, an SCCA-based program for drivers of sports cars as well as a multi-partnered open wheel program.

Closed-wheel sports car racers are competing for these new awards:

After an end-of-season shoot-out; one winner of a 2007 SCCA Club Racing National Championship will be given a new MX-5 Miata and the parts to build a 2008 SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio MX-5 Cup car.
The 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio MX-5 Cup Champion will be awarded a drive in the 2008 SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship.

Open-wheel racers are competing for these new awards:

One successful kart racer will participate in a full season of the BFGoodrich Skip Barber National Presented by Mazda in 2008.
The 2007 Skip Barber National Champion will be racing in the 2008 Star Mazda Championship Presented by Goodyear.
The 2007 Star Mazda Champion will be racing in the 2008 Cooper Tires Presents the Champ Car Atlantic Series Powered by Mazda.

In addition to its SCCA involvement, Mazda has also signed partnership agreements with multiple sanctioning bodies and events, and will be highly involved with the following:

World Karting Association (WKA)
Champ Car Rotax Kart Challenge
Snap-on Stars of Karting presented by IndyCar
Superkarts! USA (SKUSA)
Newcastle Motorsport Park (Indiana)
Rock Island Grand Prix (the largest professional kart street race in the world)

Mazda's support will consist of both traditional sponsorship funding towards prize money and operating costs, as well as unique benefits such as business-partner pricing on new Mazda vehicles for kart racers who belong to those organizations.

Andrew Caddell, who won the 2006 SCCA Club Racing National Championship in the Spec Miata class, was selected earlier this year as the winner of the first facet of the ladder-a free MX-5 Cup car and kit. SCCA Pro Racing also participated in the program, and will supply the entry fees for the winner.

The 2007 SCCA Pro Racing SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Presented by Hankook will begin April 21 at the Grand Prix of Houston. The 2007 SCCA SPEED Touring Car Championship began Friday, March 16 at Sebring International Raceway, a race won by Mazda driver Jeff Altenburg.

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario, Canada, and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

Attached image: SPEED World Challenge Mazda driver Jeff Altenburg
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Contact:
Dean Case, MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development Communications
(310) 318-4582, dean@rwb-llc.com

Heather Croke, Mazda North American Operations
(949) 727-6752, hcroke@mazdausa.com

Posted On 3/19/07

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2007 Formula TR PRO Series Underway

Tue, 13 Mar 2007 03:04:41 PST

2007 Formula TR PRO Series Underway
By Mike Mills, ADZEN

March 11, 2007 - California Speedway -- The 2007 Formula TR PRO Series is underway having completed its first two rounds of the 20 rounds in the Formula Renault 1600 and Formula Renault 2000 Championships for 2007. With three different winners in the championships this is shaping up to be a very competitive season.

Round 1 Recap

The fifteen cars (9 Formula Renault 2000's and 6 Formula Renault 1600's) took the green flag with the Formula Renault 2000's at the front and the Formula Renault 1600's behind to open the 2007 Formula TR PRO Series 20 race competition for the championships in the two respective classes. One Formula Renault 2000 missed the grid due to a last moment safety equipment problem.

The Formula Renault 2000's quickly fanned out going into the highly banked turn one with John Knudsen in his Knudsen Racing #7 capitalizing on his poll position and taking the lead for the Formula Renault 2000's. The Formula Renault 1600 field displayed no advantage for any car as they heading into the banking of turn one in perfect grid order, side by side and evenly spaced with Ryan Booth in his Knudsen Racing #4 at the head of the field from his poll position.

The battle for the lead in the Formula Renault 2000's was close with John Knudsen's #7 keeping a slight advantage over Bill Goshen in his Goshen Racing #82. On lap 7 Goshen was able to take the lead. Just three laps later Liam Kenny in his Liam Kenny Motorsports #95 who had been running a strong third attempted to pass both Knudsen who was in second and Goshen who was in third with unfortunate results for both Kenny and Goshen, sidelining them for the remainder of the race. Knudsen was back in the lead and broke his long string of second place finishes to take the stop step of the podium. Second was claimed by Luis Martinez Jr in his Position One Motorsports #3 while third belonged to Dino Bruno in his Team Bruno #33.

The Formula Renault 1600 drivers had their own battle with Ryan Booth holding the lead for the first lap with second fastest qualifier Sergio Pena in his JP Motorsports #58 taking the lead on lap two. These two watched each other closely and then on lap 6 Pena took the lead. Ryan retook the lead the following lap but lost control during spinning and handing the lead back to Pena. Felice Snider in his JP Racing #85 who had been watching from his third place position leapt into second and Carlos Munoz in his JP Motorsports #73 moved to third. Carlos moved ahead of his teammate Felice on the next lap but slipped back on the following lap. The three JP Motorsports entries swept the podium Pena first, Snider second and Munoz in third.

Round 2 Recap

The Formula Renault 2000's again led the formation for Round 2. Bill Goshen in his Goshen Racing #82 captured the poll for this race with John Knudsen's Knudsen Racing #7 second and Luis Martinez's Position One Motorsports #3 in third. The Formula Renault 1600 field was paced by Sergio Pena in his JP Motorsports #58 with Round 1 pole sitter Ryan Booth in second and the youngest driver in the field, 13 year old Josh Goshen, in third.

Bill Goshen was focused and kept the #82 in the lead for the entire 14 laps of green flag racing. John Knudsen slipped two positions on the first lap with Luis Martinez Jr in his Position One Motorsports #3 moving to second and Christian Franck's Knudsen Racing #16 moving to third. Knudsen did not stay back for long, taking third on the next lap and second on the one following. The positions did not change for the remaining laps of the race with Bill Goshen's Goshen Racing #82 finishing first, John Knudsen's Knudsen Racing #7 in its customer second place and Luis Martinez Jr's Position One Motorsports #3 in third.

The Formula Renault 1600 Round 2 race found Sergio Pena's #58 JP Motorsports entry on the pole with Ryan Booth's Knudsen Racing #4 in second and Felice Snider in his JP Motorsports #85 third on the starting grid.

Pena was in command for the entire race. He simply ran away from the field with Booth maintaining his second place position well clear of the field as well. Carlos Munoz's JP Motorsports #73 got the jump on his teammate Felice Snider at the start claiming third, however on lap 9 he suffered a mechanical failure. A very tight battle was waged between Josh Goshen's #83 Goshen Racing entry and Felice Snider's #85 with Goshen taking fourth on lap 7 and moving to third with Munoz retirement in lap 9. At the checkered flag Snider attempted to pass Goshen at the start finish line by going below the white line signaling the edge of the track. The pass was disallowed by the officials and the final results had Sergio Pena at the top of the podium for a sweep of the weekend; Ryan Booth in second and 13 year old Josh Goshen in third.

Up next for the Formula TR PRO Series are Rounds 3 & 4 just a week later, March 17 and 18, back at California Speedway. The teams and drivers are now very familiar with the track and it should be even more exciting for everyone.

About Formula TR
Formula TR (Tatuus Renault) provides a development series for young drivers progressing from karting into professional formula car racing as early as age 14. The series was established in 2002 and features both 1600cc and 2000cc carbon fibre open wheel chassis built by Tatuus and powered by Renault. The series consists of 20 races conducted over 10 weekends at tracks throughout the western US. Visit www.FormulaTR.com for more information.

About Adzen
Adzen is a motor sport marketing and management company which provides marketing support for drivers, series, and events as well as website design

Posted On 3/13/07

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Formula TR PRO Series Opens Season

Thu, 08 Mar 2007 03:47:29 PST

Formula TR PRO Series Opens Season
By Mike Mills, ADZEN

The 2007 Formula TR PRO Series with its Formula Renault 1600 and Formula Renault 2000 Championships is set to begin the season this weekend at California Speedway with rounds 1 & 2 of the 10 weekend, 20 race series.

The host for the weekend, the Vintage Auto Racing Association (VARA), has made it quite special. Formula TR will be part of the Route 66 Classic Formula Festival with vintage CHAMP/Indy cars, over 100 Model A's and T's at the event along with VARA's special guest for the weekend Al Unser Sr.

Formula TR is a driver development series that uses the world's largest and longest lived development platform, the Formula Renault. The formula is stable and the safety is unprecedented.

Alumni of the Formula TR series include the rising stars of motor sport, Marco Andretti, Michael McDowell, Brad Coleman, Colin Braun, Darryl O'Young, Adrien Herberts and Adrian (Ace) Carrio. This is a clear demonstration that the concept of early driver development in a competitive environment not only works but it works very well. The series enjoys the sponsorship of Gatorz, precision tuned eyewear, and Yokohama Tires. The series is sanctioned by the National Auto Sport Association, the fastest growing racing organization in the US.

About Formula TR
Formula TR (Tatuus Renault) provides a development series for young drivers progressing from karting into professional formula car racing as early as age 14. The series was established in 2002 and features both 1600cc and 2000cc carbon fiber open wheel chassis built by Tatuus and powered by Renault. The series consists of 20 races conducted over 10 weekends at tracks throughout the western US. Visit www.FormulaTR.com for more information.

About Adzen
Adzen is a motor sport marketing and management company which provides marketing support for drivers, series, and events as well as website design and update services. Learn more about Adzen at www.Adzen.biz.

Posted On 3/8/07

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Andrew Caddell Signs with Team MER for 2007 Mazda MX-5 Cup Season

Wed, 07 Mar 2007 03:28:18 PST

Andrew Caddell Signs with Team MER for 2007 Mazda MX-5 Cup Season
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

Courtesy Motorsports Enterprises Racing

FORT WORTH, Texas (March 6, 2007) - Team MER (Motorsport Enterprises Racing) is happy to announce the signing of Andrew Caddell to the team for the 2007 season. Caddell, from Graham, Wash., was victorious in the 2006 SCCA National Championship Runoffs in the Spec Miata class and recently was the recipient of a new 2007 Mazda MX-5 to campaign in the SIRIUS Satellite Radio Mazda MX-5 Cup Presented by Hankook for 2007.

"It has been like a dream for the past six months," Caddell said. "First winning the SCCA Spec Miata Championship and then being selected by Mazdaspeed to be awarded the 2007 Mazda MX-5 Cup race car was great. Partnering with the reigning championship winning team will help me work towards the goal of winning races and the Mazda MX-5 Cup Championship."

Caddell got his shot at competing in the 2007 MX-5 Cup thanks to a special "shootout" that was open to anyone who won a National Championship at the 2006 SCCA Runoffs in a Mazda-powered car. Four drivers were invited to submit proposals to Mazda and compete in several days of on and off-track competitions. The winner would be given the keys to a new Mazda MX-5 to compete in the 2007 MX-5 Cup series. In addition to the car, Mazda is providing several accessories such as complete racing suspension, cold air intake, exhaust header and system, and a very large box of MAZDASPEED parts to turn the street car into a racecar. SCCA Pro Racing offered to comp the entry fees for the entire 2007 season and Hankook offered a set of tires for each of the eight races, bringing the total value of the prize to well over $50,000.

Caddell was awarded the top prize but the missing ingredient was a team that could assist him in making the transition from amateur road racing to professional motorsports. The 2007 SCCA Mazda MX-5 Cup Champion was on top of the list. Team MER scored several victories in 2006 as well as taking home the Drivers' Championship with Jim Daniels. Team MER also scored the runner-up position with Jason Saini and tied for 4th in the championship hunt with Deborah Loth.

"We are excited to have Andrew on board this year," said Shannon McMasters, majority owner of MER. "He has proven to be not only a fast driver, but also possesses many of the other attributes we look for to be a part of our team. Andrew will be in good company as our team is made up of other exceptional drivers like Saini, Loth, Anders Hainer and Forest Barber. We will also have a few other drivers running out of our stable on a limited basis that will certainly bring in solid results."

Team MER is hard at work preparing race-winning MX-5 Cup cars for the 2007 season, with race seats still open for drivers interested in select events or the entire season. The team boasts an experienced staff, public relations & marketing services, design department, driver coaching and testing facility as well as a new transporter for the 2007 season.

For more information regarding testing programs and race seats for the 2007 season, contact Jason Saini or Marc Miller at Motorsport Enterprises Racing at 817.396.4831 or email at info@motorsportenterprisesracing.com.

Attached image: 2006 SCCA Spec Miata National Champion Andrew Caddell will drive for Team MER.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 3/7/07

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BimmerWorld Announces 2007 SPEED World Challenge Lineup

Wed, 07 Mar 2007 03:21:22 PST

BimmerWorld Announces 2007 SPEED World Challenge Lineup
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

Courtesy BimmerWorld Media Services

DUBLIN, Va. (March 7, 2007) - Leading independent BMW team BimmerWorld returns to the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car series in 2007 with two veterans, a rapid rookie, and three BMW E90's built from the team's new Dublin, Va. shop.

Drawing on a solid year of developing and racing the only modern BMW chassis in SPEED Touring Car, BimmerWorld owner and driver of the No. 36 BMW, James Clay, has spent a busy off-season preparing faster cars to challenge for wins in 2007.

"I made a choice last season to build and enter the BMW E90 chassis in addition to the older E46's we'd raced for a few seasons," Clay said. "Developing any new car to be a front-runner takes time, so now in year two of running the E90, I fully expect the Acuras and Mazdas to have our blue BMWs to consistently deal with."

At present, BimmerWorld is registered as the only prominent team fielding BMWs in SPEED Touring Car, a fact not lost on Clay.

"As the E46 started to age, and with BMW on hiatus from their factory road racing this year, we knew the only way forward was to build our own new cars, and to develop the E90 internally. BMWs are our life and what we work with for a living, so I hope BMW fans will support our team as we continue to represent them."

Driving for BimmerWorld again in 2007 is Seth Thomas in his No. 38 BMW. Thomas was found in the thick of most of the battles in the top ten in 2006, and with a renewed focus for 2007, is primed for a major breakthrough.

"I'm locked in on achieving my best performances ever this year," Thomas said. "I've been working hard in the off-season to make sure I am fully prepared to charge to the front and stay there. I think I've shown a lot of potential and had some good results, but I'm ready to take things to the next level in 2007."

SPEED Touring Car rookie Roberto Santos of Monterrey, Mexico, will be running his first season of professional racing from behind the wheel of the No. 37 BimmerWorld BMW.

"I've done a lot of miles in the car the past few months, and I'm really impressed with how fast we are and how professional the team has been," Santos said. "I can't wait to get my campaign underway."

Team owner Clay has been impressed with the pace and maturity Santos has shown so far.

"I have strong expectations for Roberto," Clay said. "We're fortunate to have such a talented young driver to add to our team. He has his eyes focused on winning Rookie of the Year, and we're going to provide him with the best BimmerWorld car to achieve this."

It's a new season with new opportunities for success, and the BimmerWorld team has every intention of making 2007 their best year ever.

More information about the team, cars, and drivers can be found at www.bimmerworldracing.com

Attached image: BimmerWorld is aiming high for 2007.
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 3/7/07

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Tindol Motorsports Announces 2007 Driver Lineup; Galati Joins Espenlaub, Katharine and Putman

Mon, 05 Mar 2007 12:17:19 PST

Tindol Motorsports Announces 2007 Driver Lineup; Galati Joins Espenlaub, Katharine and Putman
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

Courtesy Tindol Motorsports

Charlotte, NC (March 5, 2007) - Tindol Motorsports has announced their driver lineup for the 2007 SPEED World Challenge Series. Returning to the series for his fourth year with Tindol Motorsports is Charles Espenlaub, of Lutz Fla., along with returning teammates Charlie Putman, of Mills, Wash., and Mary Katharine, of Gulf Stream, Fla. The team is also excited and pleased to announce the addition of five-time World Challenge Champion, Michael Galati, of Olmsted, Ohio.

SPEED World Challenge fans will be familiar with the Galati name. He has taken three SPEED Touring and two SPEED GT Championships, and helped Audi win a Manufacturers' Championship in 2003. Adding Galati is pivotal to Mazda's assault on winning the SPEED Touring Car Championship for 2007.

Tindol Motorsports also announces the addition of Aeromotive Serious Fuel Systems, as a sponsor for the 2007 season.

The Charlotte, N.C. based Tindol Motorsports team will campaign four Mazda 6 SPEED Touring Cars in the green and white livery that SPEED World Challenge fans are familiar with.

"We are very pleased with our 2007 driver lineup and are looking be a top contender for the Touring Car title," Team Owner Chris Tindol said. "Galati will be a strong asset to the team and we are excited for the season."

For more info about Tindol Motorsports visit www.TindolMotorsports.com

Attached image: Charles Espenlaub returns for a fourth year with Tindol Motorsports
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 3/5/07

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Holland Returns in 2007 With Dodge and 3R Racing

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 05:24:37 PST

Holland Returns in 2007 With Dodge and 3R Racing
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (March 1, 2007) - Following a highly successful rookie season, 2006 SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Rookie of the Year runner-up Robb Holland has announced that he will be returning with Dodge and 3R Racing to contest the 2007 World Challenge season.

The former professional cyclist had a breakout rookie season in 2006 with three top-ten finishes, including a stunning third place at Road America. Holland will be returning in the Dodge SRT-4 that went from development car to podium contender by the end of the 2006.

"I'm very excited that we were able to put a deal together that would allow me to be back with 3R," Holland said. "Bob Raub runs one of the most professional teams on this or any other circuit and I wouldn't have come back unless it was with them. I've got some great new sponsors coming on board this season like the Motorsports Gallery (www.thegallerydenver.com) and I'm really looking forward to bringing home a win for them."

"Robb has been very strong from the get go and he showed excellent race craft and good decision making last season," 3R Team Owner Bob Raub said. "The Touring field will be one of the best we've seen in many years and I'm confident that Robb will be right in the thick of things."

Dodge Motorsports Road Racing Manager Gary Johnson was also happy to see Holland back in a Dodge.

"Robb did such a great job for us last year," Johnson said. "With his finishes at Miller and Road America he got Dodge its first manufacturers' points and first podium finish. We will be expecting him to improve on those results this year and Dodge is doing everything it can to support him and also our other SRT4 drivers."

Attached image: Robb Holland returns to SPEED Touring Car in the 3R Racing Dodge SRT-4
Credit: SCCA/Mark Weber

Posted On 3/1/07

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Going Green; Chili Pepper Racing Brings Diesel Power to SPEED World Challenge

Wed, 28 Feb 2007 11:42:24 PST

Going Green; Chili Pepper Racing Brings Diesel Power to SPEED World Challenge
By Erin Cechal, SCCA Staff

Ooltewah, Tenn. (Feb. 28, 2007) As the motorsports industry becomes increasingly concerned with cleaner fuel sources, one SPEED World Challenge team has put its money where its mouth is to lead the charge for a production-based diesel race car.

Jim Osborn of Ooltewah, Tenn., and Chili Pepper racing will campaign a Volkswagen Jetta TDI in the 2007 SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship, marking what is believed to be the first production-based diesel car to race in a professional U.S.-based road racing series.

"Chili Pepper Racing has had a strong presence in the SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Series since 2002," SCCA Pro Racing President Bob Wildberger said. "This year we have an opportunity to research and utilize diesel as a Performance Alternative Fuel with Chili Pepper Racing.

"In the past, diesel has been considered a heavy duty fuel used in industrial applications and over the road in heavy trucks, but diesel fuel is finding its way into motorsports. We feel it is important to support the development of racing with diesel and other alternative fuels. The technology that is being developed with Chili Pepper Racing's production-based turbo diesel touring cars will give our series valuable information. This will mark the first professional road racing series to approve and race production-based diesel race cars in the USA."

Osborn's diesel entry in the 2007 SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship is poised to set the auto industry abuzz, showing consumers the advancements in diesel technology and the real-life benefits of motorsports research and development. The remainder of the SCCA SPEED Touring Car Championship vehicles run on Sunoco unleaded fuel.

"Words can't describe how excited we are about this project," Osborn said. "Alternative fuels have been getting a lot of media attention lately and to bring a diesel car to SPEED World Challenge is a great stage to showcase how far diesel has come and encourage its use."

The No. 24 Chili Pepper Racing Volkswagen Jetta TDI hits the track at the SPEED World Challenge season opener at Sebring, March 14-16. Follow the team's progress at www.chilipepperracing.org or www.world-challenge.com.

Attached Image: No. 24 Chili Pepper Racing Volkswagen Jetta TDI
Credit: Amy Jo Osborn

Posted On 2/28/07

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