NASA RALLY SPORT ANNOUNCE SPEC RALLY FOCUS PROGRAM

Courtesy Wilson von Kessler

KNOXVILLE, TN (July 10, 2006) - NASA Rally Sport, the stage rally sanctioning arm of the National Auto Sport Association (NASA), is pleased to announce the introduction of a new spec racing class featuring the Ford Focus. The class is called Spec Rally Focus and allows 2000-2006 model Ford Focus cars prepared for competition with parts and contingency payouts from Ford Racing Performance Parts, and other suppliers. Other announced suppliers include DMS North America for suspension, Racetech for seats and harnesses, Hankook for the spec tire, and Team Dynamics for the spec wheels.

"We're thrilled to introduce the only spec class in U.S. Rallying. The class will allow rally competitors to build competitive, fun, and affordable cars to race," said John K. Shirley with NASA Rally Sport. "The Focus is the best starting point for a spec competition car and with the rules we have in place."

"We are excited to support the Spec Rally Focus Series as an extension of our support to the NASA road racing Spec Focus series," added Andy Slankard with Ford. "The Ford Focus has a great history in Rally highlighting the outstanding dynamics and overall 'fun to drive' aspect of the car. Outfitted with Ford Racing Performance Parts the car becomes an excellent platform for entry level Rally racing."

Rules for the class are available online at http://rallyspecfocus.com.