Norris McDonald's 'Year-End Top 10' List

In his year-end column, Norris McDonald puts the sale of CASCAR to NASCAR at #7... and then calls the silence since the announcement "curious."

Click here for the link to the full column in Saturday's Wheels section of the Toronto Star.

Happy New Year to all!

It's official... Tony Novotny announces that the Western Series and Sportsman Series are done

This letter was circulated to the teams today.

***

December 22, 2006

Dear CASCAR Western Series and Sportsman Series competitors,

I want to take this opportunity to inform you that the CASCAR Western Series and CASCAR Sportsman Series will not continue to operate in the future. NASCAR has acquired certain assets of CASCAR, and with that will be focusing on running one premier, national division.

For some of you I hope that this represents an opportunity to expand your race operation and step up to run either a full, or partial, schedule with the new NASCAR Canadian Tire Series. NASCAR has recently sent out a series information kit that includes sponsorship support information, that I hope will be helpful in your efforts to join the series.

For those who are not in a position to compete in a national tour, I am pleased to inform you about the addition of a second NASCAR-sanctioned track in Western Canada: Sun Valley Speedway in Vernon, BC.

With the NASCAR Whelen All American Series being sanctioned at Sun Valley Speedway and Edmonton International Raceway, it provides you with an opportunity to be part of the NASCAR family, and to maintain your equipment to a rules specification that will allow you to register for NASCAR Canadian Tire Series events.

For Ontario-based teams, we are pleased to let you know that Barrie Speedway is now a NASCAR sanctioned track and part of the NASCAR Whelen All American Series, and will be happy to accommodate current Sportsman Series teams.

For more information on the NASCAR Whelen All American Series please contact Sun Valley Speedway, Edmonton International Raceway, or Barrie Speedway directly.

In closing I would like to say it has been a pleasure competing with each of you over the years, and I would like to thank you for your support of CASCAR Racing. I wish you all the best of luck in the future and look forward to seeing you at the races!

Best regards,

Tony Novotny
CASCAR Inc.

SPEED to Broadcast A1GP World Cup of Motorsport in Canada

Courtesy A1GP Team Canada

Montreal, 06 December, 2006 - The A1GP World Cup of Motorsport has significantly expanded its global television reach, signing an exclusive broadcast deal with North America's SPEED channel. Coverage begins with the broadcast of October's opening round of the 2006-07 A1GP season from Zandvoort, Holland, starting Wednesday 6th December at 4pm EST.

As a result of Wednesday's announcement, more than 68 million homes across the United States and another 5 million in Canada will now have access to A1GP through the nation's foremost cable network dedicated solely to motorsport. A1GP will join the ranks of Formula One, NASCAR, Champ Car World Series and Moto GP on SPEED, one of the fastest growing cable networks in the United States.

"SPEED is intrigued by the competitive patriotism in the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport," said Hunter Nickell, SPEED Executive VP and General Manager. "It adds a unique twist to high-level racing and we believe it is something SPEED viewers will support and enjoy."

"I think this is a huge step forward for A1GP and A1 Team Canada," remarked A1 Team Canada driver Sean McIntosh on hearing of the deal. "SPEED is obviously a well-known channel throughout North America and offers the series, and of course the Canadian team, a great platform for promotion. As a result, hopefully more people will be aware of what A1GP's all about and we can continue to expand our fan base."

A1 Team Canada's rookie racer, James Hinchcliffe, is similarly excited by the new broadcast package. "I think it's awesome news and makes perfect sense given SPEED's dedication to covering motorsport at the highest level. Fans in Canada will love seeing for themselves the action and excitement that A1GP offers; it's a great deal for promoting some of the best racing out there as Sean and I compete around the world for Canada!"

Commenting on the deal, A1GP's Executive Director and Head of Broadcast, Richard Dorfman said, "A1GP's unique nation versus nation race format has fast developed a strong fan base and this new deal, taking the sport into homes across North America, will give a wider variety of fans access to the series. Close racing, tight overtaking maneuvers and the competitiveness of the 23 national teams delivers an exciting broadcast package that lets the fans experience the thrill of A1GP from the comfort of their own homes."

PMRA acquires new sponsorship for 2007

Courtesy Bruce F. Mehlenbacher

ST. CATHARINES, ONTARIO (December 12, 2006) – The Pro Modified Racing Association is pleased to announce new sponsorship for its upcoming season.

Wix Filtration Products, Valvoline, a division of Ashland Inc., Uni-Select, and Moen Incorporated will sponsor the PMRA points series in 2007.

“The support from these four companies will allow the PMRA to reward its teams financially at the end of our next season,” explained PMRA Director of Operations Bruce F. Mehlenbacher. “The teams in the PMRA series have worked extremely hard over the last two seasons and it’s tremendously exciting to have this group of outstanding quality products support the series.”
“This group of companies is committed to maintaining its leading edge in the marketplace,” said PMRA 2007 Series Champion and KC Auto Parts owner Kasey Janzen. “This corporate support is just what the doctor ordered for the PMRA Series. Their mission is to create a solid North American network and that’s what our series is about.”

The Pro Modified Racing Association started late in 2004 and is entering its third year of operation. The PMRA ran five events in 2006 at five Ontario, Quebec, and New York locations. The PMRA provides drag race fans the opportunity to see, hear, and experience the popular Pro Modifieds, known as "the world's fastest door slammers".

The PMRA, http://www.promodifiedracing.com/ , and its member teams traveled to several new drag strips in 2006, including Sanair in Quebec, and the western Ontario tracks of St. Thomas Dragway and the Grand Bend Motorplex. The tour was a great success for the series, which enjoyed strong fan popularity.

Negotiations are underway to return to these tracks, along with Toronto Motorsports Park and Lancaster Raceway Park and several other venues to present some of the best in Pro Modified racing for 2007.

Edmonton driver advances on Discovery's Star Racer

By Loretta Thiering, Edmonton Int’l Raceway

Edmonton Int’l Raceway NASCAR Racer makes it to round 7 of Canada’s “Star Racer” Competition in Mount Tremblant, Quebec!

#77 Darrel Vallie, NASCAR Racer from Western Canada’s only NASCAR sanctioned race track, Edmonton Int’l Raceway (EIR) did an awesome job representing his track and his home town of Sherwood Park, Alberta in Discovery Channel’s “STAR RACER” Competition (www.discoverychannel.ca/starracer).

Darrel, an Edmonton City Firefighter and young father to be, resides in Sherwood Park with his wife Lauren.

Darrel was chosen out of hundreds of Canadian applicants to take part in the STAR RACER reality TV competition. Even though the competition featured “Open Wheeled” competition, Darrel brought his Late Model experience to the table and successfully qualified to 7th of the 8th episodes, a feat no other Western Canadian Racer has accomplished!

For interviews and further information, please contact Darrel Vallie directly at 922-0779 or 975-7274.

NASCAR: Rudd returns to Yates

From TSN (AP story)

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) - Robert Yates is bringing Ricky Rudd out of retirement to keep his sinking race team afloat, signing him Thursday to drive the full Nextel Cup schedule in 2007.
Masterfoods USA will sponsor the car, with its Snickers brand as the primary paint scheme. The car number was not immediately disclosed, but Yates needed a sponsor for his flagship No. 88 Ford.
Rudd spent three successful years with Yates driving the No. 28 Ford - a car not currently in use. The team combined for three victories and a fourth-place finish in the 2001 standings.
"We are excited to welcome Ricky back to the team," team owner Yates said. "We all realize Ricky's talent, and to have him return to the organization is a huge plus for us."

... more at the link above.

NASCAR Canadian Tire Series site replaces CASCAR.CA

One of the guys in the office clicked on his link to www.cascar.ca. I'm not sure when, but they've taken down the CASCAR site and replaced it with a contact page at www.nascar.ca. That page includes a link to www.nascarcanadiantireseries.com, which features a low-res collage of CASCARs (with the CASCAR logos photo-shopped from their windshields... hmm).
It also says the page is under construction and will be launched in March, 2007.

Last minute gift idea...

How about stockings as stocking stuffers for the racer on your list?

CSC Racing is offering "One Head Sock and two foot socks" for one incredible price. For a limited time, get one pair of Nomex® socks (shoe size 6-8; 9-11 or 10-13) and one single layer Nomex® balaclava for one low price of $50. Includes taxes and delivery.


For more info, call CSC at 1-888-489-3880 or visit them online at www.cscracing.com

Peter Mansbridge talks about Headz Gamez on CBC's 'The National'

I almost fell off my couch last night when this came on.

Go to this link and move ahead to the 17 minute and 40 second mark (17:40).

Ouch.

Sharpe Management chosen to lead Sales, Marketing & Promotional Initiatives for The Canadian Touring Car Championship

TORONTO, ON – December 18, 2006 – The newly formed Canadian Touring Car Championship announced on Monday an affiliation with Sharpe Management, Inc., a leader in motorsports sponsorship and strategic partnerships.

The agreement will see Sharpe Management play an integral role in the marketing of the Canadian Touring Car Championship to consumers and corporations nationwide.

The Canadian Touring Car Championship, led by John Bondar, was created to satisfy a pent-up demand for stable, professional sportscar racing in Canada. Sanctioned by CASC – Ontario Region, the Championship has grown from its grassroots success to become a viable, marketable sports property.

Founded in 1997 by Jason Sharpe - motorsports marketing veteran - Sharpe Management is recognized as Canada’s leader in the areas of motorsport sponsorship sales, management and promotion.

Since it’s inception Sharpe Management has helped some of Canada’s most prominent brands make a connection with the racing fan. Clients including Canadian Tire Corporation, Castrol, Schick, PartSource, Sony BMG Music Canada, Shell and SonyPlaystation have benefited from Sharpe’s experience in helping marketers achieve tremendous success enhancing brand awareness and driving sales through motorsports.

“I am thrilled to be working with John on the Canadian Touring Car Championship,” said Jason Sharpe, president and CEO, Sharpe Management, Inc. “The Championship offers to fans some of Canada’s best drivers battling it out in some of the hottest sportscars in the country, and with that, offers to marketers a fresh and relevant platform for some pretty dynamic promotional opportunities.”

John Bondar, President and CEO of the Canadian Touring Car Championship, has an impressive background in motorsports management including 25 years experience organizing and officiating all levels of auto racing.

He was the President of Canadian Automobile Sport Clubs Ontario Region from 2002 to 2006 and successfully doubled the size of the organization by developing and implementing aggressive marketing and promotion strategies. He has been a member of the ASN Canada FIA Inc. Advisory Board from 2002 to 2006 and is an advisor to the Ministry of Transportation Ontario regarding public education programs regarding street racing alternatives.

“The addition of Sharpe Management to our team proves our commitment to the creation of phenomenal entertainment value for Canadian race fans, while delivering tremendous marketing value to our sponsor partners,” said John Bondar. “Jason and I have a long-term vision for a stand-alone, distinctly Canadian championship that will tour markets all across the country and we have spent months developing a very strategic plan to realize that goal,” he added.

For 2007, the Canadian Touring Car Championship will consist of three classes of competition, over 8 weekends, with the marquee event being the recently announced addition of the Grand Prix of Toronto. Other races will be held at the famed Mosport International Raceway & Shannonville Motorsport Park.

Contacts: John Bondar / Canadian Touring Car Championship 416-707-0358
Jason Sharpe / Sharpe Management, Inc. 416-838-0039

2007 Advance Auto Parts Super DIRT Series Schedule Announced

WEEDSPORT, NY (DEC. 15) Currently highlighted by 29 race dates in six states and two Canadian provinces, the preliminary schedule for the Advance Auto Parts Super DIRT Series offers a diverse mix of championship events leading up to the crowning of the Mr. DIRT titlist in 2007. Further additions to the big-block Modified agenda are still pending at this time although the entire Advance Auto Parts SDS slate is expected to be firmly in place by January.

Advance Auto Parts SDS activity kicks off in February with open-wheel teams traveling south for the 36th DIRTcar Nationals presented by Mopar Speed Shop at Volusia Speedway Park. Four non-point events make up the annual Florida Tour that will crown a big-block champion following the 10th straight winter bash, Feb. 14-17, staged in the ‘Sunshine State.’

The ‘North-South Shootout’ at Hagerstown Speedway continues the short-track action up north in March while ‘Thursday Thunder’ caps off the series’ first-ever appearance at Virginia Motor Speedway in May. Can-Am Motorsports Park returns to the tour in August and new management at New Egypt Speedway has signed on to host a second event with the New Jersey State Championship arriving in mid-October. The popular Canadian swing through Ontario and Quebec is back on schedule with 100-lap mains at Cornwall, Drummond and Brockville making up the big tripleheader. A new wrinkle has been added to the September specials at Rolling Wheels Raceway Park as the 36th Robert N. Petrocci Memorial has been split into twin 50-lap features and the 21st World Series title event has been divided into three 50-lappers.

Traditional extra-distance events fill out the season-long schedule that includes the 16th Annual Bill McNabb Hall of Fame Classic at Weedsport Speedway on the Cayuga County Fairgrounds in May, 37th Firecracker 100 at Rolling Wheels in July, 20th Super Summer Sizzler at Canandaigua Speedway in August and 39th Coors National 200 at Lebanon Valley Speedway in September. In October the famed Syracuse Mile hosts the Super DIRT Week Championship for the 36th consecutive year while the curtain drops following the 46th Annual Eastern States 200 Championship at Orange County Fair Speedway.

Advance Auto Parts Super DIRT Series specials at Brewerton, Fulton, Merrittville, Ransomville, Grandview and Susquehanna are spaced out during the summer months bringing the 2007 total to 19 of the most revered facilities in the Northeast. More information will be released as the remaining track dates are finalized. Contact the DIRT MotorSports NorthEast Office (315/834-6606) during normal business hours for specific questions or log into the DIRT homepage at www.dirtmotorsports.com to find out more about the entire circuit.

The DIRT MotorSports™ Advance Auto Parts Modified Series is brought to fans across the Northeast by several sponsors and partners, including series sponsors Advance Auto Parts, Hoosier Racing Tire and Sunoco Race Fuels. Promotional partners include AMB i.t., F.X. Caprara Car Companies and the University of Northwestern Ohio and the contingency sponsors are Bert Transmission, Bicknell Racing Products, Bilstein Shocks, Brodix Cylinder Heads, DART Machinery, Holley HP Carburetors, MSD Ignitions, Miller Electric Manufacturing Company and Wrisco Industries.

2007 Advance Auto Parts Super DIRT Series Schedule
NP=Non-Point event.
DAY-DATE LAPS TRACK LOCATION
Wed-Feb 14 30-NP Volusia Speedway Park Barberville, FL
Thr-Feb 15 30-NP Volusia Speedway Park Barberville, FL
Fri-Feb 16 30-NP Volusia Speedway Park Barberville, FL
Sat-Feb 17 50-NP Volusia Speedway Park Barberville, FL
Sat-Mar 31 100 Hagerstown Speedway Hagerstown, MD
Thr-May 3 100 Virginia Motor Speedway Saluda, VA
Sun-May 27 100 Cayuga Co Fair Speedway Weedsport, NY
Sat-Jun 9 100 Fulton Speedway Fulton, NY
Tue-Jul 3 100 Rolling Wheels Raceway Elbridge, NY
Fri-Jul 6 100 Ransomville Speedway Ransomville, NY
Sun-Jul 8 100 Cornwall Motor Speedway Cornwall, ONT
Mon-Jul 9 100 Autodrome Drummond Drummondville, QUE
Tue-Jul 10 100 Brockville Ont Speedway Brockville, ONT
Wed-Jul 18 100 Grandview Speedway Bechtelsville, PA
Fri-Aug 3 100 Brewerton Speedway Brewerton, NY
Mon-Aug 6 100 Merrittville Speedway Thorold, ONT
Thr-Aug 9 100 Canandaigua Speedway Canandaigua, NY
Sat-Aug 11 100 Lebanon Valley Speedway West Lebanon, NY
Wed-Aug 15 100 New Egypt Speedway New Egypt, NJ
Sat-Aug 18 100 Can-Am Motorsports Park LaFargeville, NY
Sun-Sep 2 100 Cayuga Co Fair Speedway Weedsport,NY
Mon-Sep 3 2-50 Rolling Wheels Raceway Elbridge,NY
Sat-Sep 15 200 Lebanon Valley Speedway West Lebanon,NY
Sat-Sep 22 3-50 Rolling Wheels Raceway Elbridge,NY
Sun-Oct 7 200 New York State Fairgrnds Syracuse,NY
Sun-Oct 14 100 New Egypt Speedway New Egypt, NJ
Sun-Oct 21 200 Orange Co Fair Speedway Middletown,NY
TBA 100 Susquehanna Speedway Newberrytown, PA
TBA 100 Orange Co Fair Speedway Middletown, NY
*All events subject to change.

By Tom Skibinski, DIRT NorthEast PR Director

Clay Regazzoni killed in car crash

From the BBC

Former Grand Prix driver Gianclaudio "Clay" Regazzoni has been killed in a road accident.
The Italian Ansa news agency said the 67-year-old Swiss, a former Ferrari driver, was killed in a collision with a lorry on a motorway near Parma.

... more at the link above

In case you were wondering why Ford is in the state it's in....

CNN has a story saying that Ford is planning a Mustang STATION WAGON.

No word on whether or not GM is planning to counter with a four-door Corvette.

J.R. Fitzpatrick plans Busch Series outings for '07

There's a story in today's Toronto Sun that offers some info on J.R. Fitzpatrick's plans to compete in a handful of Busch Series races next season.

It quotes his "crew chief" Don Thomson.

And....

It was just pointed out to me that Dean McNulty has another story out today, this one quoting individuals associated with teams who are frustrated over the lack of information regarding the new NASCAR Canadian Tire Series.

And really, can you blame them? I wouldn't imagine that Rick Hendrick and Jack Roush would be as polite as Jamie Hakonson and Susan Micks if they didn't have a Cup sked to show their sponsors by this time of year...

CASCAR on SPEED: MOPAR 300 from Barrie Speedway

Watch the MOPAR 300 from BARRIE SPEEDWAY on SPEED this Saturday, December 16 at 3:00 p.m. EST and 3:00 a.m. EST

ITMN Short Track Contingency Program Details

This past summer, Inside Track worked with several Ontario short tracks on a unique contingency program that will award FREE AD SPACE to the top 10 points finishers in three to four regular divisions at each of the participating speedways.

In this space, they are welcome to thank their sponsors, crews and fans for their support. We have selected ITMN Volume 11, Issue 1 as the issue which will contain the 'Thank Your Sponsors' ads.

Eligible recipients will receive FREE 1 UNIT ADS (approx. 1.7 inches wide x 1.75 inches tall).

If an eligible ‘Thank Your Sponsor’ ad recipient is a subscriber in good standing (i.e. a 'paid' subscriber) to Inside Track by the time the issue with his/her ad in it goes to press, the SIZE OF THE ‘THANK YOUR SPONSOR’ AD IS DOUBLED TO 1/10 OF A PAGE (approx. 3.5 inches wide x 1.75 inches tall). These ads can accommodate photos. This is a $336 value.

As well, for any 'Subscriber Level' free ad recipient, we will send as many as 10 free copies (total) of the issue containing the racer's ad to his/her sponsors. Mailing details for those 10 copies must be supplied to Inside Track for distribution direct from our mailing house.

If you are not currently a subscriber but are eligible for FREE AD SPACE and would like to double the size of your ad, you need to subscribe prior to submitting your 'Thank your Sponsor' Ad information.

Please call (416) 962-7223 and ask for Constantine or James; they will be pleased to process your subscription. Or you can click on this link and subscribe online.

Click here or on the Contingency Program Logo at the top of this post to go directly to the page where you can download the form you need to fill out.

Here are the participating tracks and divisions:

Barrie Speedway (Ltd. Late Models, Thunder Cars, Pure Stocks)

Brighton Speedway (Modifieds, Comp 4, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks)

Delaware Speedway (Late Models, Street Stocks, Trucks, Modifieds)

Flamboro Speedway (Late Models, Thunder Cars, Mini Stocks)

Kawartha Speedway (Late Models, Ltd. Late Models, Thunder Cars, Mini Stocks)

Mosport Speedway (Late Model, Thunder Car, Open Wheel Modified, 6 or Less)

Ohsweken Speedway (Sportsman, Thunder Stocks, Mini Stocks)

Peterborough Speedway (Ltd. Late Models, Mini Stocks, Four Funs)

Sauble Speedway (Ltd. Late Models, Pro Stocks, Pure Stocks)

Sunset Speedway (Ltd. Late Models, Thunder Cars, Four Cylinders, Four Fun)

Varney Motor Speedway (All Pro Modified, Ltd. Late Models, Super Street Stock, Street Stock)

A similar contingency program is also in place for Merrittville Speedway.

STICKY POST: Please see below for current news.

Joe Chisholm announces that there will be no ALSTAR Series in 2007

From Joe Chisholm, Sauble Speedway // ALSTAR Series

To all ALSTAR Super Series Sponsors, Race Teams, Fans, Officials and Speedways:

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the ALSTAR Late Model Super Series Sponsors, for their outstanding support in the last 10 years. Since 1997 ALSTAR along with the sponsors and participating speedways have collectively contributed over $1.3 million dollars in prize money and point fund cash and awards to the best ALSTAR late model drivers and teams in Ontario, Canada.

Sponsors that have contributed to ALSTAR are: Shouldice Designer Stone of Shallow Lake, SKOAL Inc. Wix Filter, Exide Batteries, CRC Manufacturing, NGK Spark Plugs, Quaker State, Hoosier Tire, McColl Racing Enterprises, Wayfreight, Raybestos, Spira Fire Protection, Wiseco Piston, B&B Decals, Sauble Falls Tent & Trailer Park, Holley Carburetors, Bayshore Broadcasting, MacDonnell Fuels, TIM-BR Mart Wiarton, Steelback Brewery, Five Star Stock Car Bodies, 69 Hanley, Inside Track Communications, Performance Racing News, Photos by Dave Franks, Browns Towing, Turbo Blue, Elf Race Fuel, Sunoco Fuel, NTN Bearings, and Fast Track Bodies, and Goodyear Tires. These sponsors have all shared a common goal in stock car racing, each have been solidly behind the success of ALSTAR Series since 1997 and many other types of racing in Canada as well.

The ALSTAR officials have been truly unique and highly experienced in officiating and conducting a fair level field. Their dedication to ALSTAR racing has also contributed to the success that ALSTAR has enjoyed. I would like to thank each of the officials; Starter - Mike Charest, Scoring - Kelly Josiak, Assistant Starter - Vern Hepburn, and Corner Officials - Keith Hepburn and Nick Merpaw, Tech – Tony Cavallin, and announcer Dave Middleton, and Live Broadcast Announcer Fred Wallace. Bill Hoffele, Marty McDonnell, Joe Chisholm Jr., Ted Benton, Bruce Ryan and Bob Finnegan, are also Officials that had contributed along the way.

ALSTAR champions have been crowned for the past 10 years with the first championship winner coming from Sunset Speedway in 1997 #47 Stompin Tom Walters won the NTN ALSTAR Series Title. In 1998 the #10 Peterborough’s own Dave Morgan took his Chevy to an ALSTAR Championship. In 1999 #67 Steve Tiemersma claimed the first ever SKOAL INC. ALSTAR Series Championship. The new millennium came in and for the next two consecutive years 2000, and 2001 – the #47 Tom Walters was unbeatable claiming the SKOAL INC. Championships two consecutive years in a row.

2001 was the year ALSTAR took the race to the radio listener for the first time ever in Canada with live radio coverage, with interviews from victory lane and lap by lap coverage of every race. In 2002 Sauble Speedways own #27 Glenn Schnurr claimed his SKOAL INC. ALSTAR Series Championship. In 2003 the #82 Jason Shaw best known at Flamboro Speedway took his SKOAL INC. ALSTAR Championship. At the end of the 2003 race season tobacco laws were getting tighter and SKOAL Inc. was forced to leave stock car racing and ALSTAR.

With great demand for the series the search was on for a new title sponsor, with racing in their blood SHOULDICE Designer Stone from Shallow Lake took the series title, and took ALSTAR to new levels in Canada. With SHOULDICE firmly in place, the 2004 season championship was claimed by the Shear Metal Dodge driven by former CASCAR driver #9 Robbie Thompson. In 2005 the guy that mastered dirt racing a champion from Chatham Ontario got real good at asphalt stock car racing - claiming the 2005 SHOULDICE ALSTAR Series Championship #38 Kirk Hooker. In 2006 the SHOULDICE ALSTAR Series Championship was won by #9 Robbie Thompson, this being his second championship in the ALSTAR Series.

At the end of the 2006 SHOULDICE ALSTAR Series it was evident that for the series to succeed and continue it must travel, from track to track. It is a well known fact that the teams that participate in ALSTAR racing are not Saturday night racers. These ALSTAR teams are sponsored by companies and associates that require these respective teams to visit the different markets that make up the Ontario racing industry.

With the 2006 season firmly planted in the history books preparations for 2007 got under way in early September 2006. ALSTAR proposals that were exactly the same contract price as 2003/ 04 and 2005, were sent out to a number of speedways, and to date ALSTAR has not received any form of commitment or interest for an ALSTAR Late Model Super Series race in 2007.

In fairness to the ALSTAR race teams, sponsors, and the dedicated fans, I feel that I must announce that the ALSTAR Series will not be operating in 2007. The ALSTAR Series, their teams and the series sponsors need commitments from tracks to move into the future. It is in every ones best interest that a direction be taken.

In closing I again would like to thank everyone, together we have truly made history.

Sincerely,
Joe Chisholm

Canadian Touring Car Championship on the card at the '07 GP of Toronto

Toronto, Ontario – Tuesday, December 12, 2006: Furthering its commitment to provide event-goers with even more on-track excitement, the Grand Prix Association of Toronto today announced it will feature the Canadian Touring Car Championship at this year’s Grand Prix of Toronto, July 6, 7 and 8, 2007.

“The Grand Prix of Toronto is a well-recognized part of the city’s sports and cultural scene,” says Charlie Johnstone, president and CEO, Grand Prix Association of Toronto. “The week-long festival of speed is truly a celebration of Canadian pride. With its all-Canadian driver line up, the Canadian Touring Car Championship is a natural fit. The Champ Car World Series and the Champ Car Atlantic Series feature some incredible Canadian racing talent with Paul Tracy, Alex Tagliani, Andrew Ranger and James Hinchcliffe. We are excited to further showcase Canadian talent by adding the Canadian Touring Car Championship to our on-track line-up.”

The Canadian Touring Car Championship launched in 2003, and the 2007 season promises to be the best yet. In addition to the Grand Prix of Toronto, the Championship will travel to four different tracks including Mosport International Raceway, Shannonville Motorsport Park and Calabogie Motorsports Park. The Championship provides Canadian race fans with exciting head-to-head competition in three unique classes between some of Canada’s best drivers in today’s hottest sports cars. Touring Class is the entry level category where race cars have engines up to 2.0 litres and up to 200 horsepower. The Super Touring Class includes race cars with engines up to 2.8 litres and up to 300 horsepower. The GT Class is the fastest category where race cars will reach speeds of up to 230 km/h. The excitement lies in the fact that all three categories race at the same time for supremacy in their field.

There are three factory-backed teams including Honda, Mini and Saab, and fans will recognize some of their favorite models from other manufacturers such as Acura, GM, Lexus, Ford, Porsche, Dodge, BMW, Mazda, VW and Nissan. The Championship is sanctioned by Canadian Automobile Sport Clubs Ontario Region Inc. (CASC-OR).

"The Grand Prix of Toronto provides a world-class stage for us to showcase our series,” says John Bondar, president, Canadian Touring Car Championship. “Now in it's fifth year, the Canadian Touring Car Championship provides the opportunity for the fans of the Grand Prix of Toronto to experience our style of racing and meet our home-grown drivers, while giving a tremendous boost to auto racing in this country. As the Championship continues to grow, our participation in the Grand Prix of Toronto demonstrates our commitment to providing excellent value to our promoters, competitors and partners alike."

From Andrea Hynes (Manager, Communications) Grand Prix Association of Toronto

For that money, I hope the Truck is made out of solid gold...

This story says Jacques Villeneuve has signed a Truck/Busch deal with Roush Racing. All he needs to do, the story goes, is come up with $18 million.

Which makes you think... couldn't he buy himself an F1 ride if he showed up somewhere with $18 mill.?

Merrittville Speedway: Lucas Oil signs on as divisional sponsor of the NYDCA Open Wheel Lites

Thorold, Ontario … “What can I say,” relates New York Dwarf Car Association President Bruce Mason, “ it really says something about our club to announce that Lucas Oil is joining us as Divisional Sponsor … our weekly car counts … point fund and purses are the envy of other groups across North America.”

Merrittville Speedway recently announced that Lucas Oil will be the 2007 Divisional Sponsor of the NYDCA Open Wheel Lites, in addition to the 2nd Annual Lucas Oil Shootout Series for Sportsmen and 358 Modifieds.

“Each NYDCA member will share in it,” boasts Mason, adding, “each feature winner throughout the season will also receive a custom designed award as well.”

Lucas Oil Products is one of the fastest growing additive lines in the consumer automotive industry featuring a premium line of oils, greases and problem-solving additives.

Through innovative product research and development, along with aggressive marketing programs, Lucas Oil Products has established itself as the top selling additive in the industry.

Lucas Oil Products was established by Forrest Lucas in 1989 in the United States and wasn’t introduced in Canada until 1997.

Race fans can look for Lucas Oil Products in many locations in Canada, including all PartSource locations. In Western New York at Advance Auto Parts or online at either www.lucasoil.ca or www.lucasoil.com.

Overflow fields are quite common for the Division in what began as a test at Merrittville Speedway several years ago. Each week the field is split between the Classic Coupes and Coach body style of the pre-war years and the newer Mod Lite versions that resemble today’s Sportsmen and 358 Modified styles.

“We’re really excited about what Lucas Oil will bring in 2007,” adds (Merrittville GM) Erica Bicknell, “ the NYDCA should be proud of their efforts … the Dwarf Cars and Mod Lites have their own following and they continue to bring new bring new drivers to the sport of all ages.”

The New York Dwarf Car Association and the Lucas Oil Open Wheel Lites are one of 5 divisions that will make up Merrittville Speedway’s 2007 Dirt Weekly Racing Series schedule.

For further information on the Thorold track’s 56th consecutive season call the Winter Office at 905-685-7223 or the Speedway at 905-892-8266. Updates leading up to the new season can also be found on line at www.merrittvillespeedway.com.

From Merrittville Speedway

IHRA Salutes World Champions: 2006 Awards Banquet Held Saturday Night in Greensboro, N.C.

GREENSBORO, N.C. (December 10, 2006) – Concluding a very successful season, the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) honored its drivers Saturday night in Greensboro, N.C., during their annual awards banquet. IHRA crowned the fifteen professional eMax Nitro Jam™ Drag Racing Series world champions, Mr. Gasket Pro-Am Tour champions, and recognized several special award winners.

Dale Creasy Jr., who won the first IHRA Nitro Funny Car world championship since the sanctioning body stopped running the class in 1992, accepted his award with thanks to his crew, family and sponsors. Creasy, Beecher, Ill., finished the season No. 1 in the point standings, a mere five points over second-place-finisher Jack Wyatt.

“My crew was just great this season, as they’ve been every year,” Creasy said. “A few years ago we were out of money and about to quit racing, but everyone stuck with it, and through the support of Torco Racing Fuels, it became possible again and now a reality.”

Two world champions were sitting at the head table for the sixth time – Clay Millican (Top Fuel) and Mark Thomas (Alcohol Funny Car). Actually, Millican, Drummonds, Tenn., was accepting the IHRA’s Knoll Gas – Torco Racing Fuels Pro Nitro Top Fuel honors for the sixth consecutive year.

“A lot of people wondered what was wrong with us this year, because we didn’t win as many races as before,” Millican said. “But it really was a good season and I owe it to my entire crew and (crew chief Mike) Kloeber.”

Quain Stott, Columbus, N.C., accepted the Torco’s CompetitionPlus.com Pro Modified title. Pete Berner, Crete, Ill., was the Torco’s CompetitionPlus.com Pro Stock world champion.

The 2006 eMax World Champions:

• Knoll Gas – Torco Racing Fuels Pro Nitro Top Fuel: Clay Millican, Drummonds, Tenn.
  
  Knoll Gas – Torco Racing Fuels Pro Nitro Funny Car: Dale Creasy Jr., Beecher, Ill.
  
  Torco’s CompetitionPlus.com Pro Modified: Quain Stott, Columbus, N.C.
  
  Torco’s CompetitionPlus.com Pro Stock: Pete Berner, Crete, Ill.
  
  Alcohol Funny Car: Mark Thomas, Louisville, Ohio
  
  Erson Cams Top Sportsman: Marco Abruzzi, Warren, Ohio
  
  Mallory Top Dragster: Bryan Bennett, Shallowater, Texas
  
  ACCEL DFI Super Stock: Scott Stillings, Indianapolis, Ind.
  
  Hays Stock: Myron Piatek, Holly Hill, Fla.
  
  ACCEL Quick Rod: Forrest Lipke, Belleville, Wisc.
  
  Lakewood Super Rod: Steve Furr, Harrisburg, N.C.
  
  Hurst Hot Rod: Kenny Underwood, Tampa, Fla.
  
  JEG’S Top Stock: Bo Kenney, Manassas, Va.
  
  Summit SuperSeries Box: Joe Gary, Greenwood, S.C.
  
  Summit SuperSeries No Box: John Coyle, Tinley Park, Ill.

Special awards were given in categories such as “Most Improved,” “Rookie of the Year,” “Crew Chief of the Year” and IHRA’s most prestigious award “Sportsman of the Year,” which exemplifies the best qualities of teamwork, fellowship and compassion that personify the winning human spirit.

IHRA’s special award recipients included:

• Pro Driver of the Year: Tony Gillig
  
  Sportsman Driver of the Year: Steve Furr
  
  Pro Rookie of the Year: Tommy D’Aprile
  
  Sportsman Rookie of the Year: Bryan Bennett
  
  Most Improved Pro Driver: Tom Carter
  
  Most Improved Sportsman Driver: Kenny Underwood
  
  Crew Chief of the Year: Jay Lewis
  
  Sportsman of the Year: Bobby Lagana Jr.
  
  Track Operator of the Year: Joe Lombardo, New England Dragway
  
  Promoter of the Year: Joy and Mike Anderson, Sumerduck Dragway
  
  National Track of the Year: Rob Reeves, Castrol Raceway
  
  Sportsman Track of the Year: Steve Groseclose, Motor Mile Dragway
  
  Sponsor of the Year: Torco Racing Fuels

During Friday night’s Pro-Am Tour awards ceremony, IHRA announced that Summit Racing Equipment would take over sponsorship of their semi-professional series. The Summit Racing Equipment Pro-Am Tour presented by Mr. Gasket kicks off 2007 in Immokalee, Fla., on February 10.

The 2007 IHRA eMax Nitro Jam Drag Racing Series begins March 23 – 25 in San Antonio, Texas, at the Amalie Oil Texas Nationals. For more information, please log onto www.ihra.com.

About IHRA

Headquartered in Norwalk, Ohio, the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA), a division of Live Nation, promotes professional, semi-professional and local level racing opportunities for drivers at all levels. The eMax Drag Racing Series is an 11-event North American professional drag racing circuit. In 2006, the series will be comprised of eight events in major cities throughout the United States and three in Canada.

The Summit Racing Equipment Pro-Am Tour presented by Mr. Gasket consists of competition at national events and 35 events in six regional divisions, while IHRA’s Summit SuperSeries is conducted nearly every weekend at over 90 IHRA-sanctioned tracks. Providing a safe environment to develop future stars, IHRA offers the PM-1 Junior Dragster Racing Series for youths ages 8-17. Stand-alone events include Live Nation’s entertainment-filled “Thunder Jam” shows and the street legal racing and lifestyle event series Kumho Street Warriorz presented by Hooters. More information can be found at www.ihra.com.

Live Nation is one of the world's largest diversified promoters and producers of, venue operators and sponsorship/advertising for, live entertainment events including music concerts, theatrical performances, and specialized motor sports events. Live Nation owns, operates or has booking rights for 150 venues worldwide including 107 domestic and 43 international venue sites. In 2005, promoted and/or produced over 28,500 events with attendance at venues exceeding 61 million persons.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Media Contacts: Travis Reynolds travisreynolds@livenation.com // Mike Perry mikeperryihra@livenation.com

... Because it seemed like such a good idea when Paul Tracy did it....

"CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Nextel Cup champion Jimmie Johnson broke his left wrist when he fell out of a golf cart during a celebrity tournament, his team said Sunday.

The injury occurred Friday at a tournament in Lecanto, Fla., and will prevent him from driving for at least four weeks. The injury was to his non-shifting hand, and he should be able to participate in preseason testing at Daytona International Speedway next month."

From NASCAR.com ... continued at the link above.

CASCAR on SPEED this Saturday

Watch the 'CLARINGTON 200 presented by CANADIAN SHIELD' CASCAR Super Series race from MOSPORT INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY on SPEED at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 9. The race took place on the 2006 Father's Day race weekend and features a creative late-race lead change.

Canadian Robbie Wickens lands full-time Atlantic ride

From TSN

"Forsythe Championship Racing has secured title sponsorship from energy drink maker Red Bull for its Atlantic racing team in 2007.
Promising Canadian driver Robert Wickens, a product of the Red Bull Junior Team, will be joined on the Forsythe squad by 15 year-old John Edwards as they chase the $2-million grand prize for winning the Atlantic Championship. ..."

Continued at the link above...

Flamboro: Late Model drivers' meeting this Saturday

From the Flamboro Speedway website:

Late Model Meeting: Saturday, December 9, 2006. 10:00 a.m. at the track's Tech Garage.
All teams should attempt to have representation at this meeting.

SPEED to Broadcast A1GP World Cup of Motorsport in Canada

Montreal, Canada 06 December, 2006 - The A1GP World Cup of Motorsport has significantly expanded its global television reach, signing an exclusive broadcast deal with North America's SPEED channel. Coverage begins with the broadcast of October's opening round of the 2006-07 A1GP season from Zandvoort, Holland, starting Wednesday 6th December at 4pm EST.

As a result of Wednesday's announcement, more than 68 million homes across the United States and another 5 million in Canada will now have access to A1GP through the nation's foremost cable network dedicated solely to motorsport. A1GP will join the ranks of Formula One, NASCAR, Champ Car World Series and Moto GP on SPEED, one of the fastest growing cable networks in the United States.

"SPEED is intrigued by the competitive patriotism in the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport," said Hunter Nickell, SPEED Executive VP and General Manager. "It adds a unique twist to high-level racing and we believe it is something SPEED viewers will support and enjoy."

"I think this is a huge step forward for A1GP and A1 Team Canada," remarked A1 Team Canada driver Sean McIntosh on hearing of the deal. "SPEED is obviously a well-known channel throughout North America and offers the series, and of course the Canadian team, a great platform for promotion. As a result, hopefully more people will be aware of what A1GP's all about and we can continue to expand our fan base."

A1 Team Canada's rookie racer, James Hinchcliffe, is similarly excited by the new broadcast package. "I think it's awesome news and makes perfect sense given SPEED's dedication to covering motorsport at the highest level. Fans in Canada will love seeing for themselves the action and excitement that A1GP offers; it's a great deal for promoting some of the best racing out there as Sean and I compete around the world for Canada!"

Commenting on the deal, A1GP's Executive Director and Head of Broadcast, Richard Dorfman said, "A1GP's unique nation versus nation race format has fast developed a strong fan base and this new deal, taking the sport into homes across North America, will give a wider variety of fans access to the series. Close racing, tight overtaking maneuvers and the competitiveness of the 23 national teams delivers an exciting broadcast package that lets the fans experience the thrill of A1GP from the comfort of their own homes."

Upcoming 2006-07 A1GP Broadcasts on SPEED

Wednesday 6th December, 4pm EST: Round 1, Holland - Zandvoort
Wednesday 13th December, 4pm EST: Round 2, Czech Republic - Brno
Wednesday 20th December, 4pm EST: Round 3, China - Beijing

For further details please log on to - www.speedtv.com / www.a1gp.com

From A1 Team Canada Media Relations: Stuart Morrison - PR & Media Mgr.

GET WELL JEN! ... drop her a note.

Inside Track would like to pass along its best wishes to Jennifer Ward, who is recovering from the effects of a stroke she experienced almost a month ago.

Jen has been a contributor to the magazine since its inception, most recently in the form of coverage from the big Labour Day races at Delaware Speedway. She has also worked extensively with drivers and teams to improve their performances through various development and team-building practices.

But most importantly, she is a friendly and genuine person who is facing a tough challenge.

Jen has a great attitude and spirit, as do her family and friends who are alongside her during her rehabilitation process.

Her spouse, Mike McColl, said that she is making progress every day, but is expected to be in a London-area rehab hospital for at least the next month.

We checked with Mike and Jen and they would be happy to hear from their friends who want to offer their support or just to say 'hi'.

So if you have a minute, send an e-mail to them at mike@mccollracing.com ... they would love to hear from you.

Grand Prix Kartways: Grand Opening held today

Words and photos by Rob Morton / Inside Track

TORONTO, ON – Today saw the grand opening of Toronto's latest and most innovative indoor karting facility. Based at Downsview Park (Keele & Shepherd Ave.) Grand Prix Kartways offers something totally new & exciting....."green" karting, using the latest technology in electric karts on a state-of-the-art, 1/4-mile track.

The FAST Italian-made OTL electric karts are the feature attraction in a beautiful facility that sets a brand new standard in indoor karting. The facility also offers a glass enclosed VIP lounge, track-side cafe, billiards and an arcade room.

While corporate business will be a large part of the facility, you can also "arrive & drive" for one of the best racing experiences around. Plans are also in the works to operate various levels of karting leagues.

Performing the opening ceremonies today were (l to r in the photo) Tony Di Cristofaro, Grand Prix Kartways, Tony Genco (Pres. & CEO, Downsview Park) & Domenic Gironemo, President, Grand Prix Kartways.

For more information call: 416-638-5278 or visit http://www.grandprixkartways.com/

Advance Auto Parts DIRT Big-Blocks Return To Florida In February

By Tom Skibinski, DIRT NorthEast PR Director

WEEDSPORT, NY - With days growing shorter and temperatures continuing to plummet throughout the Northeast, race enthusiasts are already looking forward to the annual pilgrimage to Florida and the start of DIRT MotorSports’ 31st consecutive season of operation. The 36th Annual DIRTcar Nationals presented by Mopar Speed Shop at Volusia Speedway Park in February is highlighted by the 10th straight trip to the Sunshine State for the big-block Modified contingent.

The Florida Tour at Volusia will feature the mighty Advance Auto Parts Big-Blocks from the Northeast during the week leading up to the Daytona 500 (Feb. 18). The schedule once again includes three 30-lap main events with a 50-lap finale closing out the trip. DIRT Tour '07 marks the 22nd trek to Florida for Northeastern Modified teams since 1978 and it will be DIRT's 15th visit to Volusia since staging its inaugural event in 1982.

"We’re excited to be heading south to begin another season, and after a month away from the track so are a lot of racers and their fans,” said Cory Reed, DIRT MotorSports Director of Series & Track Sanctioning. “Volusia is recognized as one of the premier dirt track facilities in the southeast and it’s always a great place to showcase our Modified teams to the rest of the country. Last year the points title was decided on the final night of racing, and with many of the top teams already making travel plans the competition should be just as fierce when the first green flag falls.”

On June 30, 2005 DIRT officially completed the purchase of Volusia Speedway Park, an acquisition that included the current 1/2-mile semi-banked clay oval, the former 3/8-mile semi-banked asphalt oval and a 1/8-mile banked clay go-kart track which will be the site of the upcoming DIRTkart World Championships, Dec. 27-Jan. 1.

Located a half-hour from Daytona Beach, this famed facility has seating for nearly 10,000 fans. The track is a popular venue for the World of Outlaws and UMP series as well as a variety of other classes. Coming up in February, the World of Outlaws (Feb. 9-11) and World of Outlaws Late Models (Feb. 15 & 17) will join the Advance Auto Parts Big-Blocks (Feb. 14-17) in kicking off their own race seasons. DIRT-sanctioned UMP Late Models (Feb. 12-14) and UMP Open-Wheel Modifieds (Feb. 6-13) add to the 12-day DIRT MotorSports marathon down south with three straight nights of All-Star Sprint Circuit of Champions (Feb. 5-8) specials opening up the month.

Super reserved ticket packages for the DIRTcar Nationals remain available for Sprints, Late Models and Big-Blocks, with each including a free gift when ordering. A six-race Sprint Week (Feb. 6-11) ticket and each six-race Late Model (Feb. 12-17) ticket costs $160 while a four-race Big-Block (Feb. 14-17) ticket goes for $120.

Among the tour record 57 DIRT Modified drivers who competed at Volusia last February, all-time Florida Tour champion Brett Hearn overcame a seemingly insurmountable 30-point deficit on the last night to capture an unprecedented sixth Winter Nationals title after opening night winner Jimmy Horton blew a motor with 17 circuits left in the 50-lap finale. Points runner-up Tim Fuller won the second 30-lapper before Hearn claimed the last two main events to close out the Advance Auto Parts mini-series.

Fans and race teams already planning to attend Volusia Speedway Park (386/985-4402) are encouraged to contact the track public relations offices for area hotel/motel accommodations. Reserved motorhome camping (up to 40 feet) is available at Volusia for only $20 per night. Volusia Speedway Park www.volusiaspeedwaypark.com is located 15 miles west of Daytona Beach on State Road 40 in Barberville, Fla. Mail is received at: 1500 E. Highway 40, DeLeon Springs, FL 32130.

For additional information, contact the DIRT MotorSports NorthEast Office (315/834-6606) during normal business hours or log into the DIRT homepage at www.dirtmotorsports.com to find out more about the entire circuit.

Fellows set for shoulder surgery

Best wishes for a full and speedy recovery!

Canadianracers.com has a story about Ron Fellows' upcoming shoulder surgery.

"MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO – Three time ALMS (American Le Mans Series) GT1 champion, Ron Fellows will head to Indianapolis form his home in Mississauga, Ontario this week to have surgery on his right shoulder. This is not the first time that Fellows has gone under the knife for shoulder sugery. Back in 2003, Fellows had surgery on his left shoulder after an accident while training. This time it will be his right shoulder that gets some attention from the doctors...."

Cont'd at the link above.

Carl Spiering pleased with 2006 IHRA season

JORDAN STATION, ONTARIO (December 4, 2006) – Although he did not win the championship, Carl Spiering believes his 2006 campaign in the competitive IHRA Torco’s CompetitionPlus.com Pro Modified division was successful. Consistency in qualifying, plus a stout and dependable engine program were key factors to his performance again this year.

“Consistency was key to our success this year and the G-Force Race Cars Eaton Road Warrior,” said Spiering. “We were one of only two teams (the other being Quain Stott – 2006 IHRA World Champion) that qualified for every one of the 11 IHRA national events this season. For 2006, we averaged sixth spot in qualifying for all the events, with an average low ET of 6.14 seconds, making us the highest average qualifier over all of our competitors.”

This highest average qualifier status gave Spiering and his team the best “batting average” for the season. While other teams may have qualified higher or lower at certain events, the Eaton Road Warrior always qualified well at each event with a steadiness and reliability that no other Pro Modified team matched.

Most IHRA National events featured fields of over 30 Pro Modifieds, with a couple of events topping 40 cars and two boasting the quickest qualified fields in IHRA history, all vying for the top 16 spots for elimination rounds.

Spiering, the 42-year old driver from Jordan Station, Ontario, finished the season in seventh position in the IHRA eMax Nitro Jam™ Drag Racing Series in his Eaton Electrical 1967 Camaro and continues to lead the chase for the 2007 Torco Race Fuels Pro Modified Shootout.

Spiering added he was particularly pleased with his engine program, which has remained rock-solid over the past several seasons.

"We have gone three consecutive years with no powerplant failures with our ERD engine program,” he said. “Our ERD (Engine Research and Development) facility features a new state of the art Dynamic Test Systems (DTS) dynamometer system that allows our engines to be tested, developed and race ready when we get to the track. Although our race luck was not there this year we want to emphasize our success at being one of the very few teams to qualify at each event.”

The Torco Race Fuels Pro Modified class features a special program based on each team’s final qualifying spot at each national event. The top eight in points will have the opportunity to participate in the 2007 Torco Race Fuels Pro Modified Shootout, which will be held at the IHRA Northern Nationals in Martin, Michigan. Spiering remains in the number one position in this category and has kept this since winning the 2005 Shootout again reinforcing his consistently strong performance throughout the 2006 season.

Carl Spiering Motorsports, www.CarlSpiering.com, thanks all of its sponsors and supporters including Eaton Electrical, (ATC) Aluminum Trailer Co., Competition Tire Canada - Goodyear Racing Tires, ERD (Engine Research and Development), Excel Tool & Die, G-Force Race Cars Inc., NGK Spark Plugs, Pennzoil®, RBS Superchargers, PSI Superchargers, Bicknell Racing Products (BRP), The Trailer Shop, VP Racing Fuels, Aeroquip Performance Products, Cynergy Composites, AFT Clutches and Scott Jahren Paint.

For more information, please contact Bruce F. Mehlenbacher at bruce@jajentertainment.com

Holland Speedway: Banquet Report

Holland, NY - Holland Speedway honored the top drivers of the 2006 racing season at the Western New York oval at its annual awards banquet on Friday evening, December 1st. The event was held at the Millennium Hotel and Conference Center in Cheektowaga, NY. Approximately 275 braved a serious windstorm to be in attendance - the storm triggered a power outage in the area late in the proceedings, but the ceremonies continues courtesy of emergency generators, candles, and reasonably quiet co-operation from those in attendance.


NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series 2006 Division III Champion Mark "Bushy" Bliss of Arcade, NY received top honors for the second straight season as Holland's 2006 Sunoco Late Model Pro Stock Champion. Bliss captured four feature victories en route to the track title, which was up for grabs on the final race night of the season - Mark's fourth place finish on that final night vaulted him to the top points slot. Bliss also received the Driver of the Year award from Boundy's Racing Museum of Holland.


Bill Matuszak (with one feature win), who was in the chase for the title through that final night, and Mike Fiebelkorn, Jr. received their Late Model Pro Stock second and third place seasonal awards. The Fielbelkorn Ford #50 also earned the McCool's Paint Workz Best Appearing Late Model award.


On the strength of four feature wins, Neil Hopkins of West Falls, NY earned his fifth career Carquest Pro Modified title. Among his wins was a third career victory in the prestigious George Decker Memorial Challenge - Phyllis and Barry Decker of Bar-Chel of Springville, NY presented Neil with this special race win trophy. Neal Dietz, Jr. (with 2 wins) finished second in the points chase, while Chuck Anderson (with one win) placed third. Anderson also received the Bank of Holland Pro Modified Most Popular Driver award.


Tim Welshans of West Falls, NY, had a busy season in 2006, competing in both the Native Pride Charger division and the Carquest Pro Modified class. Welshans parlayed two victories and numerous top five finishes to a first career Charger title, and with a 10th place finish in Pro Modified points, earned that division's Clark Rice Memorial Rookie of the Year award. The Welshans family was well represented in the Charger ranks, as brother Matt Welshans scored two victories, placed second in points, and earned the Charger division Clark Rice Memorial Rookie of the Year award. 2005 divisional champ Jerry Kosmowski earned two wins and placed third in 2006 points. The Kosmowski crew received the PGT Services Best Appearing Pit Crew award.


The winningest driver at Holland in 2006 was Brian Porebski of Hamburg, NY. Porebski raced to six wins in capturing his first career Pro Four title. Shawn Lafferty, with a single win, placed second in points, and also received the division's Let's Celebrate Candy & Gifts Most Improved Driver award, the PGT Services Best Appearing Pit Crew Award, and the Bank of Holland Most Popular Driver award. Placing third in Pro Four points with three feature wins was Sean Kirsch.


Eric Hammill of Erie, PA became Holland's first INEX Legends track champ in the initial year of regularly scheduled racing of that division at the Speedway. Hammill picked up a feature win to edge Larry Occhibone and Chris Bailey, Jr. for the crown. The Hammill crew also earned the PGT Services Best Appearing Pit Crew award. Occhibone, who placed second in points, also received the McCool's Paint Workz Best Appearing Car Award for his #9. Bailey's third place points finish came on the strength of three feature victories.


Rob "Chopper" Willard of Buffalo, NY picked up a first career championship in the South Buffalo Auto Parts Figure 8 Car division. Willard drove to four feature wins throughout the year, while also competing in the Pro Four class (finishing 10th in points). Willard also received the McCool's Paint Workz Best Appearing Car award for his #1. With two feature wins, Jason Adams placed second in points, and received the Bank of Holland Most Popular Driver award. "Big Dave" Zimmer scored three wins en route to a third place points finish.


Pat Spruce of Gowanda, NY roared to three wins to clinch his first title in the 8-cylinder Challenger division. Gary Denea place second in points, with Scott Pastorius earning two wins to grab third in the final standings.


Though he went winless on the season, top fives each time out spelled success for Bill Lutz of Lancaster, NY, as he earned his first 4-cylinder Hornet title. Lutz also competed in the Figure 8 Car division (placing 6th in points). In addition, Lutz earned the Let's Celebrate Candy & Gifts Most Improved Hornet Driver award. Jesse Baker rolled to one feature victory while placing second in points, and Ricky Roth earned two wins to grab a third place points finish. Roth, who was leading in points going into the final night when an on-track incident knocked him out of contention, received the Wardynski & Sons Hard Luck Award, and was also the recipient of the McCool's Paint Workz Holland Speedway Most Sportsmanlike Driver award. The crew for the Roth team (Ricky and brother Tyler) earned the PGT Services Best Appearing Pit Crew award.


Her third win of the season on the final points night propelled Mae Urban of Cheektowaga, NY to her first ever Queen Bees title, in what was the closest points battle across the board. Mae was also honored by NASCAR as the Craftsman Tools Mechanic of the Year at Holland for her work on the Charger division racer of husband George. Kim Marzec fell just short of that elusive crown, with two victories over the year to place second in points. Nicole Twoguns placed third in the final points tally.


Craig Dumbleton of Try-It Distributing presented the Budweiser Late Model 100 trophy to the crew of Will Thomas. The was Thomas' first win of the Holland hallmark Late Model late season classic.


The prestigious Ray Greenan Award, for contributions and dedication to auto racing, was presented to long time racer, car owner, and mechanic Mike Fiebelkorn, Sr. and the Fiebelkorn Racing Team. The Holland Unsung Hero Award was presented to popular Assistant Pit Steward and Speedway Safety Crew member Jerry Ward. The Holland Woman in Racing Award went to Lisa Grimmer, chief mechanic on husband Al's Charger division entry. Larry Ott, motorsports writer for the Buffalo News, received the Media Appreciation Award.


Other awards presented included --
Clark Rice Memorial Rookies of the Year: Nik Welshans (Pro Four), Frank Nellist (Hornet), Cassy Newell (Queen Bee).

Bank of Holland Most Popular Drivers: Jeff Brown (Sunoco Late Model), Al Grimmer (Native Pride Charger), Jake Vernon (INEX Legends), Jack Warrior (Challengers), Jason Nellist (Hornets), Ashley Kirschberger (Queen Bees).

PGT Services Best Appearing Pit Crew: Nick Crassi Crew (Sunoco Late Model).

McCool's Paint Workz Best Appearing Cars: Al Grimmer #34 (Native Pride Charger), D.J. Hutchinson #7 (Pro Four), Frank Nellist #77 (Hornet), Marcia Sullivan #92 (Queen Bee).

Let's Celebrate Candy & Gifts Most Improved Drivers: Mike Ames (Sunoco Late Model), Jeff Ruddy (Carquest Pro Modified), Joe Eck (Native Pride Charger).

Wardynski & Sons Hard Luck Awards: Rick Roth (Native Pride Charger), Rich Carnes (Pro Four), Ashley Kirschberger (Queen Bee).

Feature Win Awards: Sunoco Late Models - Will Thomas (2); Carquest Pro Modifieds - Steve Kreitzbender (3); Native Pride Chargers - Marty Hughes, Mike Flaig, Dave Krawczyk; Pro Fours - Cam Barber; South Buffalo Auto Parts Figure 8 Cars - Sharon Hughes; Hornets - Frank Nellist (3), Tyler Roth; Queen Bees - Ashley Kirschberger, Sally Latina.


- From Holland Speedway

INSIDE TRACK: Motorsports Mixed Bag

Cristiano Da Matta says he's almost completely recovered from his injuries...

BMW-Motorsport boss Mario Theissen says he doesn't regret dropping former world champion Jacques Villeneuve midway through last season in favour of untested rookie Robert Kubica....

Sunset Speedway's website has a new look. On it, the track thanks their former webmaster, Mark Blocksdorf, for his past efforts. He was also a great help offering stories and photos for publication in Inside Track. Thanks Mark, and good luck in your future ventures...

The ALSTAR Series' website has a button on it, named "2007 Schedule".... interesting tease. It would be great to see the ALSTAR tour hit the road again....

Barrie Speedway has news about its sponsors returning for 2007...

ADVERTISER SPOTLIGHT: Cycle World

Cycle World

STICKY POST: This will be the top post until Friday, December 1. Check below for current news.

ARCA Lincoln Welders Truck Series at Sauble Speedway in 2007

Sauble Speedway and title sponsor EPH TOOLS are pleased to announce for the 2nd year in a row “The EPH TOOLS 100 - ARCA Lincoln Welders Truck Series. This American truck series will make its first Canadian Stop of 2007 on June 23rd /07 at Sauble Speedway.

EPH Tools President and CEO Ted Hayes, wife Phyllis, plus the entire EPH staff are extremely excited to add this event to their Canadian motorsports program. EPH Tools are also proud sponsors the Quaker State Ltd. Late Model Driver Vern Monk No. 7, a long time runner at Sauble Speedway, along with NASCAR Nextel Cup Series No. 52 Ware Racing Team of the United Sates.

EPH Tools is located just north of Lion’s Head, Ontario. The company produces custom bending and assembly equipment for the worldwide automotive industry.

Sauble Speedway is located on the edge of Lake Huron in one of Canada’s premiere vacation destination Sauble Beach. The quarter-mile track is only a few minutes away from seven miles of white sand beach and several of Canada’s top-rated campground facilities.

The track, which features 13 degree banking and a fully paved pit area, has been in operation since 1969. The 2007 ARCA Lincoln Welders Truck Series race date marks the second time that the touring truck series has visited the .25-mile track.

For more information: www.saublespeedway.com // www.arcaracing.com

Dirt From The Stands, by Greg Cybulski

A Prairie Dirt Family Christmas (2006)

Well race fans, here we are are once again, relaxing in the warmth of a quiet evening's glow with the anticipation of another Christmas season upon us. I sit before this keyboard with my favorite glass of yuletide cheer and Christmas carols playing in the background. As I look back to the year that was, I realize that one common theme keeps rising and that is family.

There are different families in our lives. My immediate family consists of spouse Heather, son Aaron and daughter Brandi, mom Joyce, dad Edward and brother Gord. There are others in my life as well, however, the newest is my racing family. If I made a list of everyone who has touched my life in racing in the past 5 years, I think I would have to fit them all in the grandstands of Knoxville Raceway.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has been a part of and supported Prairie Dirt over the past five years. It has been an incredible ride for my family and I as we have had the pleasure of meeting many wonderful people in the racing community.

Some we have personally met and have grown strong friendships with, some we have corresponded with while others, sadly, we have lost far too soon.

Some of my personal highlights of the 2006 racing season included taking a ride in a stock car at Richard Petty's Driving Experience at Walt Disney World, Florida in March. Even doing 3 laps gives one an appreciation of the speed and power these cars possess on a race track.

Regretfully, my next experience was preparing a tribute for fallen friend, Fred Brownfield which was read at Estevan Motor Speedway on July 1 by track announcer Pat Boyle prior to the NOSA Sprint feature. Pat delivered the tribute page with a reverence and feeling that the fans in attendance could appreciate. As I stood in turn 4, listening and reflecting, I looked up at the clear Saskatchewan sky, and somehow I knew that Fred was there with us and giving his approval.Once again, the good folks at Estevan Motor Speedway showed why EMS is one of my favorite stops to see dirt track racing with their awesome hospitality and family-oriented atmosphere.

Congratulations to Guy Budel and the crew at Red River Co-op Speedway for putting on a first class race night for the fans at the 2nd annual NAPA Auto Parts Mid-Canada Sprint Car Challenge here in Winnipeg. They were really looking after the fans who had to park out on Highway 75 with a shuttle service to and from the speedway. Now that's service! Thanks again to the good folks at NAPA Auto Parts for their continued support of this special race event.

Race fans, mark your calendars! The 3rd annual NAPA Auto Parts Mid-Canada Sprint Car Challenge is set for Thursday, July 12 and promises to be bigger and better than ever. Sprint Car fans can look forward to the debut of the father and son team of Lou Kennedy Jr and son Thomas. Thomas will make his Sprint Car debut in Winnipeg and run a limited schedule before taking over the famous 21k Sprinter full time in 2008. Also confirmed is Fargo, North Dakota's first lady, Natalie Sather, who with legendary veteran crew chief Kenny Woodruff should provide for more excitement at Winnipeg's premier race event.

Congratulations to the new kids on the block in 360 sprint car racing on a successful inaugural season. The ASCS Northern Plains Region headed by Chuck Zitterich made some waves in 2006 with shows in the southern part of the Upper Midwest. Brainerd, MN appears to be a good stop for the N.P. as they have 4 races slated for 2007, including the much publicized ASCS National Tour.

The Northern Outlaw Sprint Association membership celebrated a series of firsts in 2006. Scott Butz captured the NOSA points title for the first time in 2006 with strong consistent performances. Dave Sobczak, Casey Mack, John Lambertz picked up their first NOSA-sanctioned feature wins on the NOSA Sprint Tour. Lambertz's win came at a new stop for NOSA at Dakota State Fair Speedway in Huron, SD.

What a year for Mark Dobmeier. His stock as a driver just keeps going up. Not only did he dominate at his home track of River Cities Speedway in Grand Forks, ND, but he consistently showed strong performances all season long at other tracks including Huset's Speedway and Knoxville Raceway. He capped off the season with his first World of Outlaws feature win, subbing for the first time in Brooke Tatnell's seat at Wilmot Speedway, WI. This was Mark's first time to Wilmot. This reporter can't wait to see what he does for an encore in 2007.

Congratulations to Schatz Motorsports on not only winning the World of Outlaws points title in 2006, but for winning the highest honor in 410 Sprint Car racing, the Knoxville Nationals.
Looks like Ken Pelkie and Ohsweken Speedway have a winning formula going in Ontario with another successful 360 Sprint venture following the 2nd Annual Canadian Sprint Car Nationals in mid-September. It's good to see Sprint Car racing growing north of the border as it is.
Another highlight of 2006 was being interviewed by Darren Pallen for the sprint car special edition of Prairie Dirt Digest podcast.

In that interview I had stated the priorities in my life, that being family and the family business and the importance of them to me. Right now, it is my intention to devote more time to the family business.

Having said that, I am announcing that I will not be actively involved in the promotion of sprint car racing for the 2007 racing season. Does this mean the end of what I have started? Hardly. I will continue to keep my finger on the pulse of the racing scene and return with a refreshed outlook following my leave of absence.

I will continue to run Prairie Dirt (2005) in it's current form, showcasing open wheel racing in Canada ,in our region, and in Australia during our off-season, however, I will not pursue any other additional duties at this time.

There is a place in Manitoba where a majesty of diverse wild ground, all creatures great and small and a man's soul come together as one. This is my refuge from the daily battle in the concrete jungle called the city. If I am nowhere to be found, that is where I will be. My little peace on earth, God's Country.

On behalf of the Cybulski family, I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and many Blessings in the New Year.

God willing, I will see all my racing friends at a dirt track again in 2007.

Take care and good racing,Greg Cybulski

CANADIAN MOTORSPORT HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCES 2006 INDUCTEES

NOVEMBER 2006 (Toronto) The Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame (CMHF) announced the nine finalists to be inducted into the Hall at an award ceremony at the 14th annual black tie Gala on Saturday, February 10, 2007 in Toronto.

This year s inductees come from a variety of racing disciplines and are being recognized for their outstanding accomplishments and contributions to Canadian racing. Nominations for induction are accepted by the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame s Nomination Committee, which carefully scrutinizes all submissions for accuracy. Complete nominations are then forwarded to the Selection Committee which is comprised of a national panel of automotive and racing journalists and historians who make a selection based on overall accomplishments and contributions to Canadian motorsport.

The 2006 inductees are:

Bob Atchison // Builder // Drag Racing
Alec Bennett // Competitor // Motorcycle Racing
John Bird and Bruce Simpson // Competitors // Rally Racing
John Duff // Competitor // Oval and Road Racing
Lorne Leibel // Competitor // Boat Racing
Dan Marisi and Jacques Dallaire // Builders // All
Ted Powell // Competitor/Builder // Road Racing
Lloyd Shaw // Competitor/Builder // Oval Track Racing
Robert Theoret // Competitor // Boat Racing

Thom Dickinson, President and Chairman of the Board of CMHF says, The reason the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame exists is to honour the special men and women who have contributed to making Canada one of the world s great racing nations. We are very excited to announce the newest list of outstanding Canadians, who, through their notable achievements, have contributed to Canada s racing heritage and have left their stamp on Canadian motorsport.

The gala ceremony and dinner, including a Silent Auction, will be held at the Sheraton Centre Toronto located at 123 Queen Street. Individual tickets are $220 each, and a table of 10 can be purchased for $2,200. Tickets purchased prior to December 31, 2006 are $195 each and a table of 10 is $1,950. Tickets may be purchased by calling 905-876-2454, or by visiting the CMHF website at www.cmhf.ca.

The Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame makes up one of the largest motorsport collections in Canada, housing more than 20 racing cars, boats and motorcycles. It also holds an extensive archival collection, some of which will be on display at the annual induction dinner.

The Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame was established in 1993 to honour and recognize the achievements of those who have made significant contributions to Canada s rich and colourful motorsport history. Since its inception, more than 125 people have been inducted into the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame including Greg Moore, Scott Goodyear and the legendary Gilles Villeneuve. In 1999, the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame combined with the Canadian Automotive Collection and operates as a charitable organization that is funded by in-house events, individual donations and corporate sponsorships.

- 30 -

Individual biographies available upon request.
For further information contact:
Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame
Tim Miller 905-876-2454

ITMN Subscription... a great gift idea!

Not sure what you should get for the Canadian racing fan on your Christmas list?

Are you dreading heading out to the malls to do battle in lines like these?

We can help. Avoid the headaches and hassles by giving them a gift subscription to Inside Track Motorsport News.

Click here to find out more. Or call our office at (416) 962-7223.

STICKY POST: This will be headlined until end of day on Nov. 29. Please see below for news.

CASCAR on TV: Barrie opener on SPEED

WATCH THE GO-RACING.CA 300 from BARRIE SPEEDWAY on SATURDAY DECEMBER 2ND at 3:00PM on SPEED!

And if you're interested in purchasing a DVD Box Set of the entire 2006 CASCAR Super Series season, send a note to Joel Robinson.

CBC: Changes at Headz Gamez

The CBC has a story on its website about Headz Gamez Int'l.

The company was involved in sponsoring CASCAR Super Series teams and events in 2006.

From the CBC story:

"A megaproject promising to bring 1,500 factory jobs to Parrsboro appears to be in jeopardy.
Residents had been told their small town on the Minas Basin would be headquarters for a board game empire, but they learned Tuesday the project's champion has resigned.
(CBC)Headz Gamez International, which produces sports-themed board games, now says it's reviewing its Nova Scotia operations following the resignation of its president and majority owner, Kerry Martens."

... story continued at the link above.

ACT RETURNS TO CANADA

This is very interesting. Talk about "Back to the Future".
I'm hearing that people are being told that the former CASCAR Sportsman Series won't happen in 2007. One team owner said he's converting his operation to ACT. And now I can see why.

****************************
Waterbury, VT – After a ten year absence, the American-Canadian Tour (ACT) will be returning to Canadian racing on a regular basis in 2007. With the recent announcement of an ACTion Super Series race at Ontario’s Kawartha Speedway, and the finalization of negotiations with Quebec race teams and promoters north of the border, the Vermont-based group has announced it will manage and administer the very popular and successful Quebec Late Model Série in 2007.
Quebec racing is deeply rooted in northern New England stock car history. “La Belle Province” has produced many notable competitors, including the great Jean-Paul Cabana, André Many, Marcel Goddard, and Claude Aubin, among others, who were mainstays at the former Catamount Stadium (Milton, VT) and Thunder Road (Barre, VT) in the 1960s. Quebec racing at Vermont tracks and at Maine’s Oxford Plains Speedway continued with Quebec City’s Langis Caron, while Claude Leclerc and Roger Laperle from the Montreal area, and a host of drivers, were among the foundation of the ACT Pro Stock Tour years later.
Nearly 30 “new breed” Quebec racers and teams attending a recent organizational meeting in Drummondville, Qc learned that ACT will promote and manage the Quebec Late Model Série next year. ACT president Tom Curley said, “We feel very lucky to be able to work with many old friends and some new young talent. Donald Forte, in cooperation with the Quebec promoters did a very good job establishing this touring series. Our job is to help make it grow and have a lot of fun along the way. The Quebec Late Model Series fits our regional business plan perfectly. Universal rules, inexpensive race costs and affordable ticket prices will be our goal in Quebec, just like in New England.”
ACT has formed a 12-race schedule for the coming season that will compete at five venues. Included on the card will be two very popular ACTion Super Series events. The Series will open at Ralph Nason’s Autodrome Montmagny Speedway, a 3/8ths mile high-banked oval in May and close with the Cari-all 300 at the historic Autodrome St-Eustache near Montreal, a 4/10ths mile oval owned by former champion, Claude Aubin. Also on the docket will be stops at Autodrome Circuit Chaudiere, a track that ACT’s Curley consulted on, which is a favorite of fans and race teams. The 5/8ths mile Autodrome Ste-Croix, located near Quebec City, will host a pair of Quebec Late Model Série events as well as an ACTion Super Series race. Ontario’s Capital City Speedway, which has also introduced the ACT Late Model rules package, will hold the lone event outside the province. The second ACTion Super Series race will be at Aubin’s Autodrome St-Eustache.
Claude Leclerc, a 30+ year racing veteran was pleased with the information he heard at the meeting, “Saturday was a great day for Quebec racing. Tom Curley presented a good schedule and very good purses. It will be good for every driver. Having ACT will bring stability, a good foundation – Tom has been in the business for over 30 years and his plans aren’t just for the short term,” the Montreal-based driver finished.
“We are very proud that ACT is coming to Quebec,” affirmed Donald Theetge of Boischatel, near Quebec City. “The rules will put everyone on the same playing field, which will allow us to race across the Northeast without changing the car. Now I can go to Oxford for the `250’ and the ACT Tour race at Kawartha. I’ve raced at Kawartha and it’s a great track,” said the 2006 Quebec Series Champion.
Daniel Bergeron of St. Benoit, Quebec was planning to run a couple of ACT Tour events next year, but with the organization’s recent announcement that it will return to Quebec in 2007, he’s changing his plans, “I think I’m going to stay closer to home,” the 40 year-old driver stated. “The meeting was very informative, and the schedule’s good, as are the rules which will allow me the chance to run against other drivers in some of the big races in the US.”
Louis Larue, president of RPQ, the Quebec Late Model driver’s organization echoed the competitor’s thoughts, “We are very proud to have ACT here in the province of Quebec. Tom Curley has over 35 years of knowledge in the sport and having him bring this to our racing is a positive move.”

Schedule - Quebec Late Model Série
# Date Day Track Event
1 May 19 Sat Autodrome Montmagny Montmagny 100
2 May 26 Sat Autodrome St-Eustache Ste Eustache 100
3 June 9 Sat Capital City Speedway Ottawa 100
4 June 16 Sat Autodrome Montmagny Montmagny 100
5 June 23/24 Sa/Su Circuit Ste-Croix Ste Croix 200 (ACT/Que Combo Super Series)
6 June 29 Fri Autodrome Chaudiere Chaudiere 100
7 July 24 Tue Circuit Ste-Croix Ste-Croix 100 (4 x 25)
8 July 28 Sat Autodrome St-Eustache Ste Eustache 200 (ACT/Que Combo Super Series)
9 Aug 11 Sat Circuit Ste-Croix Ste-Croix 100
10 Aug 17 Fri Autodrome Chaudiere Chaudiere 100
11 Aug 25/26 Sa/Su Autodrome Montmagny Montmagny 250
12 Sep 22/23 Sa/Su Autodrome St-Eustache Ste Eustache Cari-all 300
Subject to change

Bobby Allison making an appearance in Ancaster, Ontario on Dec. 1

The Ancaster News has a story containing the news that legendary NASCAR driver Bobby Allison will make a promotional appearance at a store in Ancaster, Ontario on Friday, Dec. 1.

McIntosh's open-wheel talents continue to shine in Europe

Courtesy Stuart Morrison Public Relations

Tuesday 21 November, 2006 - Vancouver's Sean McIntosh relished another successful season abroad as he raced his way to a sixth place finish in the 2006 World Series by Renault. Once again, he was Canada's sole open-wheel racing representative competing in Europe, Formula One's proving ground, were he tackled legendary circuits such as Monaco, Le Mans and Spa-Francorchamps, not to mention 29 equally ambitious international rivals, along the way.

McIntosh's debut in the World Series by Renault followed two decorated seasons in the United Kingdom where he showcased his talents outside North America for the first time by winning the 2004 'Graduate Cup' for top rookie driver in the Formula Renault UK Championship before multiple wins and a championship challenge followed in 2005.

It was a natural progression for the 21-year-old to remain in Renault's open-wheel development ladder in 2006. Following his 2005 Formula Renault UK season, McIntosh proved his talents with more powerful equipment over the 2005-2006 A1GP World Cup of Motorsport winter season, notably with a victory for A1 Team Canada. A move into the World Series by Renault with the Belgian-based KTR squad duly followed. The Canadian would this time be testing his skills with a 425bhp Formula Renault 3.5 single-seater car.

"We set out at the beginning of the year to try and finish in the top-ten at the very minimum and hopefully get a few podiums and possibly a win," McIntosh reflected. "I was disadvantaged by not having had any winter testing with my new team. So, heading into the first pre-season tests in March and April, I was on the back foot a little and it's a big step going from the Formula Renault 2.0-litre car to the 3.5-litre World Series car. That said, looking back at the end of the season, to come away as the highest ranked Formula Renault 2.0-litre graduate is pretty pleasing as the competition level was exceptionally high."

"I'd definitely class 2006 as a successful season for me," he continued. "I scored a couple of podiums and took my first pole at the final round in Barcelona. It would be easy to say that I should have scored a couple of wins at Donington, and if it hadn't been for one or two other issues we could have ended up fighting for a championship as I was a regular top-five runner. But, at the end of the day others could argue the exact same thing. More important to me is the fact that I showed I was quick throughout the season and was capable of competing successfully at this level."

Acknowledging his time served racing in the United Kingdom proved useful as a foundation for stepping up into the World Series by Renault, one of Sean's biggest challenges was learning eight new European circuits with England's Donington Park the only track he'd experienced prior to the start of the season.

Recalling this Sean remarked, "My two seasons competing in the UK were undoubtedly a great learning experience but the venues we raced at weren't necessarily on the same level as the ones I had to face up to this season. You definitely step up when you start racing at places like Monaco, Nurburgring, Spa and Barcelona. I grew up watching races at these circuits on television so to get the chance to actually race on them was fantastic but each time out I was faced with the challenge of having to learn the track. I've done it so many times now that it's not something I let bother me but you could see how comfortable I was when we raced at Donington in England, I was on the pace immediately as I knew the track well from my time in the UK."

Sean's rookie season in the World Series by Renault netted two podium finishes, the first being a second place finish in Round 5 at Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium back in July, followed later by a third place finish in Round 9's season-finale in Barcelona, Spain at the end of October.

In addition the young Canadian scored a total of ten top-ten finishes and one pole position on his way to sixth overall in the Driver Standings, the World Series title going to Comtec Racing's sophomore driver, Alx Danielsson from Sweden.

On the highs and lows of his season Sean mused, "The highlight for me was definitely my pole position in Barcelona. We should have had pole at Donington Park but that didn't work out but Spain was sweeter as it came on the last lap of the last qualifying session of the season. It was a great feeling mirrored by my drive through to second place and my first podium finish at Spa. The final race in Barcelona was similarly pleasing as I had secured sixth in the standings and rounded out the season with another podium."

He continued, "The lowest part of the season was definitely Donington Park as I should have been on the front row of the grid but a fuel calculation error in qualifying cost me the position and I was forced to race my way from the back of the field. I still proved something with the pace of the car during the race but we know that was a weekend where I could have won. Other low points include being taken out by other drivers but there's nothing you can do about that unfortunately."

"I think I learned how to work with the team a little bit more," McIntosh commented on what he's taken from the 2006 season. "I was obviously comfortable with Team Firstair who I ran with for two seasons in the UK before joining KTR this year. With a new team you've got to start again and perhaps learn to deal with people differently. When racing in Europe, you're also faced with the challenge of people speaking different languages and so on."

"It was a great experience for me and on top of that I think I learned how to develop the car even more, a fact definitely reflected in my performances over the second half of the season. I had a car that really suited my style of driving and I think that came from the relationship I developed with the team and in particular with my engineer Paul Heath. Europe's a very competitive proving ground and you've got to learn to take care of yourself!"

Proud to be flying the maple leaf flag in European open-wheel racing, McIntosh's talents have been noted on both sides of the Atlantic, something he takes pride from but won't allow him to sit back and take it easy as he continues his rise through the ranks.

"I think when I first raced in England people there didn't have any expectations but I proved over in Formula Renault that I could compete and belonged to be there. I had earned respect and so when it came to moving up into the World Series this year people were already aware of what I could do based on my accomplishments in the UK as well as A1GP. I was more of a known quantity when I graduated to European competition this season!"

"The main thing is that if you're quick, it doesn't really matter where you're from. But from a pride perspective it's satisfying to be doing a good job as a Canadian and importantly to have people back in Canada recognise what I'm trying to accomplish over in Europe. Moving up to the highest level of motor racing could be political but the important thing for me is to keep pushing and to win races wherever I compete next season!"

Chinese Double Score for A1 Team Canada's Hinchcliffe

Courtesy Stuart Morrison Public Relations

Sunday November 12, 2006 - A1 Team Canada's James Hinchcliffe endured a fast but frustrating third round of the 2006-07 A1GP World Cup of Motorsport in Beijing, China Sunday as the 19-year-old from Toronto added to the team's points tally with fourth and tenth place finishes in the Sprint and Feature races with the fastest race lap, and bonus point, also going to the Canadian charger.

With the grid for Sunday morning's 20-minute Sprint race based on Saturday's limited practice session, following vital track modifications to the Beijing street circuit, Hinchcliffe found himself taking the start in fourth. The tight nature of the Jingkai track in the Olympic city was never going to lend itself to spectacular overtaking and as expected the Sprint race proved to be a static affair as the 22 Nation field finally unleashed their identical 550bhp V8-powered A1GP racing machines. Hinchcliffe held fourth to score three more points for Canada, his third straight points-scoring performance, with pole-sitter Jeroen Bleekemolen winning for A1 Team Netherlands ahead of Mexico's Salvador Duran and Italy's Enrico Toccacelo.

The Feature race saw Hinchcliffe climb into podium contention early in proceedings, taking the third spot as the Mexican entry floundered. As soon as the pit window opened on lap 20 the front-runners pitted with the exception of Canada who opted to stay out and build up an advantage over the rest of the field. Unfortunately for Hinchcliffe, almost as soon as he assumed the lead two safety car periods in quick succession denied him the opportunity to streak too far away or similarly pit for a fresh set of tires. When the track finally returned to green James put pedal to the metal but the advantage lay with Holland in fourth having already stopped followed by a string of similarly placed cars. This failed to halt Hinchcliffe's stunning pace demonstration and he duly set the fastest lap of the race on lap 39.

Finally relinquishing the lead on lap 50, the end of the pit window, James pitted and rejoined 11th. He quickly climbed to eighth and with some final drama he was looking good to rebound and score a potential top-five finish following the retirements of Holland, Germany and Malaysia until he in turn found himself hitting the wall following a close last-lap dice with France's Nicolas Lapierre. Classified tenth at the checkered flag, with a point for position and another for fastest lap, there was some consolation for the young Canadian after another eventful A1GP race. Enrico Toccacelo scored the Feature win for Italy, in doing so becoming the fifth nation this season to triumph, with Great Britain's Oliver Jarvis in second and Australia's Karl Reindler wrapping the podium celebrations in third.

"I'm super disappointed," stated Hinchcliffe at the end of the Feature. "It was a good race and we're unfortunate to be in the position, like Brno last time out, where we led lots of laps but haven't finished on the podium. I really had the hammer down to try and build an advantage but we were caught out by the safety periods. I thought France had a problem at the end and was letting me go as I ran wide but he started to race me again and I found myself out on the marbles and into the wall. It's frustrating but overall we showed great pace today and that's encouraging for the future!"

Round 4 of the 2006-07 A1GP World Cup of Motorsport takes place in two weeks time, Friday 24th - Sunday 26th November, at the Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia - www.a1gp.com.

A1GP Nations Standings after Round 3/12: 1st Mexico (24), 2nd Germany (22), 3rd Great Britain (20), 4th Italy (19), 5th Malaysia (17), 6th Canada (16)