South Carolina Motor Sports Racing News
Monday, August 23, 2010
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ARCA Nation News
Legendary Dirt Race at Springfield Has George Looking Forward to Sunday
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 9:14:28 AM | Don Radebaugh
(MOORESVILLE,
N.C.) - The versatile Tim George Jr. will transition to dirt track racing with
his No. 31 Richard Childress Racing (RCR) team on Sunday, August 22 for the
Allen Crowe 100 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield. Springfield
is infamous for its similarities to asphalt. Don't blink, because anything can
happen at any time. It is all part of the inherent challenges of short-track
dirt racing at Illinois State Fairgrounds. George is ready for the dirt and
dust to fly as he prepares for the one-mile clay oval for the 100-mile
event.
The 29-year old will return to the dirt track this week in his second full-time season in a stock car, running the clay surfaced track which requires a lot of brake and a little sliding. The race marks the 14th of 20 events on the 2010 schedule and the first of two annual dirt racing exhibitions for the ARCA Racing Series.
Apparently George does not mind racing on the original racing surface. Since joining forces in 2010 with Richard Childress Racing, George, and his association with the Team Dillon Racing team have provided the added benefit and experience on dirt. George has performed on dirt tracks running a limited schedule with Late Models throughout the Southeast this season.
"Getting some experience with Team Dillon Racing in dirt Late Model stock cars has been helpful to my car control on asphalt," said George. "I believe it will help me with the two ARCA Racing Series dirt races as well. The ARCA car does not get as sideways as a "pure" dirt car, but after running with a bunch of full- time dirt racers, I should be more comfortable."
In one career starts at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, George has one top-fifteen finish. Finishing in 14th-place at Springfield this past August, George took the checkered flag in his debut on a dirt track being consistent throughout the race. The New York, N.Y., qualified 19th clocking a lap at 105.067 mph (34.264 seconds) in 2009.
Heading into the historical dirt track, George sits 9th in the championship standings, 330 points away from first place for the ARCA Racing Series Championship with seven races to go until everything is said and done.
Before hitting the one-mile dirt track however, George spent Thursday participating in an open practice session at Chicagoland Speedway in preparation for the upcoming race on August 27th for the Ansell Protective Gloves 150.
Sunday's one-day event on the clay-surfaced track includes practice from 9:00 until10:00 a.m., Menards Pole Qualifying presented by Ansell (All positions / 1 lap) starting at 11:00 a.m. The engines fire up for the Allen Crowe 100 (100 laps / 100 miles) at 1:00 p.m. The ARCA Racing Network will cover all the on-track activity for the ARCA Racing Series with live streaming audio and scoring of practice, qualifying at ARCAracing.com inside the ARCA Nation and live audio coverage. LIVE updates on Tim George Jr. all weekend by following @TimGeorgeJr on Twitter and TimGeorgeJrRacing on Facebook.
activ8 communications Courtney C. McGarry
Public Relations Account Manager
704.728.3757
courtney@goactiv8.com
Darrell Basham Prepares to get Dirty
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 9:14:28 AM | Don Radebaugh
(SPRINGFIELD, Ill.) - After racing at a
tricky road course last weekend, Darrell Basham is ready to hit the dirt in
Illinois. As the ARCA Racing Series presented by RE/MAX and Menards rolls into
Macon, Darrell Basham Racing will be prepared to race with support from
Anti-Monkey Butt Powder.
"We are finally headed to a real race track," stated Basham. "Kris and Tom, along with myself and Sandy have been working all week to get the car ready for a great race this weekend."
After having transmission problems at New Jersey, Basham brought his team together to build a fast car that can handle all the exciting dirt track action. With many dirt track races under his belt, Basham hopes to put on a fun and entertaining race for all the fans coming out to support the ARCA Racing Series.
Dirt tracks like this keep things interesting through out the season and give drivers like Basham the chance to shine in such a familiar setting. Dirt tracks have long been known for breeding super stars that have gone on to win championships as well as countless races through out the NASCAR Series. Competition grows at dirt tracks since many racers have gotten their start at similar tracks in their home towns across the country.
"I'm ready to get dirty and sling some mud this weekend," informs Basham.
With a positive attitude and a hard working team behind him, Darrell Basham is determined to have a good weekend racing in the dirt. Basham has high hopes of finishing in the top 10 and the team will do everything they can this week to prepare for the exciting dirt track race this up coming weekend.
Lyndsay Pollock
PR/Communications
Darrell Basham Racing
(717)250-3120
Frank Kimmel Ready for Dirt Track Racing at Springfield
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 9:14:28 AM | Don Radebaugh
(MOORESVILLE,
N.C.) – Last weekend at New Jersey
Motorsports Park’s road course Frank Kimmel drove to the ARCA Racing Series
presented by RE/MAX and Menards points lead. There is no better place for
the Ansell/Menards team to take their points lead than the dirt track at
Springfield. While Kimmel looks to continue his bid for a 10th ARCA
Racing Series championship at the one-mile dirt oval, what he is really looking
for is his first win of the 2010 season.
To say there is no better driver on Springfield’s dirt track than Frank Kimmel is an understatement. He holds an impressive record, boasting five poles, seven wins, 13 top-five and 15 top-10 finishes in his 18 starts at the historic track.
While Kimmel is headed to one of his favorite tracks on the schedule, he knows there is still a lot of work to do if he wants to end Sunday afternoon’s Allen Crowe 100 in victory lane.
“We have to continue to do what we have been doing and get our cars more competitive,” said Kimmel. “As a team we need to improve on every weakness that we have now. Our pit stops hurt us a little bit the last couple of races, so the guys are working on that and concentrating on that even more. We have to improve at and get better at every single thing we do. Just because this (Springfield) is one of my favorite places to go race, it doesn’t mean we will have success. We have to make sure that we take care of our Ansell/Menards Ford and be as prepared as we possibly can. All the guys, Craig (Goess), Joey (Coulter), Patrick Sheltra’s really good on dirt, are going to be coming to win. We have to go out and do everything that we can, and try to go out there and beat them.”
The lone practice is scheduled for the Allen Crowe 100 is set to begin on Sunday August 22nd at 9:00 a.m. Central, with Menards Pole Qualifying presented by Ansell taking place at 11:00 a.m. CDT. The green flag will drop on the Allen Crow 100 at 1:00 p.m. CDT with live timing and scoring and live audio coverage presented by ARCA Nation at ARCARacing.com.
“Kimmel’s Top-10”
In anticipation of his 10th Championship, Frank Kimmel gives a look at his “Top 10” before each ARCA Racing Series event. Kimmel is the king of dirt racing in the ARCA Racing Series and always looks forward to racing at the dirt track races on the ARCA schedule. This week Kimmel takes a look at his top-10 favorite things about dirt track racing.
10. The rich history that goes with racing at Springfield and DuQuoin
9. The dirt races are happening at the same time as the state fairs. As a family, we usually walk through the fair the night before the race.
8. It’s not about aerodynamics and horsepower, it brings you back to the way racing started in the dirt days.
7. The food at the fair is always great, great ice cream.
6. The people that come out for the fair races are great. They are really big fans and there is usually a great crowd.
5. There are great support races the night before our ARCA Race. USAC Silver Crown cars race the night before our race, I love to go watch that.
4. There is a sportsman race right before our race at Springfield; it is always a great race. I like to watch that.
3. The race day is great, we get up extremely early, but we practice qualify and race all in the same day.
2. Dirt races are the most different races that we do. They are only 100 miles long.
1. Strategy in dirt racing is really neat to watch. It’s cool to see the different strategies each team has. Sometimes the dirt races can be won strictly with strategy, but it can also be lost in the same way.
Frank Kimmel and the No. 44 Ansell/Menards Fast Facts
No. 1 in Points: A fourth-place finish at New Jersey Motorsports Park moved Kimmel up another position in the ARCA Racing Series championship standings. Kimmel now sits first in the standings, leading Craig Goess by 10 points.
On a Roll: Not only has Frank Kimmel climbed to the lead in the championship standings, but he has done it in a consistent fashion. His fourth-place finish at NJMP marked the eighth-straight top-10 finish for the Ansell/Menards team. It was also Kimmel’s sixth top-five in the last eight races.
Springfield History: Kimmel has an impressive record at Springfield’s one-mile dirt oval. In his last 13 starts at the track, Kimmel's average finish is 2.1. He also claimed five pole positions. In the starts that he did not win, he claimed four second-place finishes, fourth and ninth.
This Week’s Ford: Crew Chief, Bill Kimmel Jr., has chosen to bring “The Don” to Springfield. This chassis is a short track car that the crew converts for the dirt tracks. Matt Crafton drove this car twice this year, at Toledo and Iowa, earning two top-five finishes.
See You at Menards: Frank Kimmel will be signing autographs with his Ansell/Menards Ford Fusion on Saturday, August 21 in Springfield, ILL from 12:00-1:30 p.m. CDT.
Featured Blogger: Want to hear what Kimmel has to say about each race weekend? Logon to http://www.motorracingnetwork.com/ every week to read Frank’s latest driver diary. He talks about what happened in the race, what he does when he is not at the track and his expectations for the next race weekend.
Follow Frank Kimmel: Want to know what happens when Kimmel is not behind the wheel of his Ansell/Menards Ford Fusion? Fans can logon to www.facebook.com/frankkimmelracing to follow him on Facebook and www.twitter.com/frankkimmel to follow him on Twitter.
2010 STATS
Starts Wins Poles Top 5s Top 10s Ave Start Ave Finish Pts. Pos./Prev
Frank Kimmel 13 0 1 6 10 7.2 7.4 1/2
TEAM ROSTER
No. 44 Team Hometown
Crew Chief: Bill Kimmel Sellersburg, IN
Car Chief: Larry Meadors Jeffersonville, IN
Front Tire Changer: Frank Kimmel II Borden, IN
Front Tire Carrier: Eric Beyl Memphis, IN
Jack Man: Will Kimmel Sellersburg, IN
Rear Tire Changer: Shawn Rodgers Mt. Washington, KY
Rear Tire Carrier: Lee Riddle Corydon, IN
Gas Man: Larry Meadors Louisville, KY
Catch Can: Mark Pennington Calhoun, AL
Spotter: Daryl Hadley Louisville, KY
Ansell/Menards Media Contact:
Tracy Olszewski – activ8 Communications – 704.785.6196 - tracy@goactiv8.com
Patrick Sheltra Super Serious About Springfield
Friday, August 20, 2010, 7:42:46 AM | Don Radebaugh
(SPRINGFIELD,
Ill.) - - The first of two dirt races are upon the
ARCA Racing Series presented by RE/MAX and Menards tour this weekend starting
with the Illinois State Fairgrounds and without hesitation, it would be more
than fair to put Patrick Sheltra and his Mooresville, North Carolina based
Sheltra Motorsports team on the radar screen as a threat to win Sunday’s Allen
Crowe 100.
The anticipation for Sunday’s race for the Indiantown, Florida native could be compared to a six year old waking up on Christmas morning, running down a flight of stairs and seeing a bundle of presents left by Santa Claus. Though the Holidays are still months away, Sheltra joyfully would accept his second-career ARCA win in the 14th race of the season as an extremely early “Christmas” present.
“I love racing on the dirt, especially in ARCA,” said Sheltra, a four-year ARCA pro. “We’ve never really have had any terrible finishes at Springfield despite some bad luck but we haven’t been able to seal the deal with a win. Our consistency this year obviously makes us a favorite, but I’m ready to be more than a favorite. I’m ready to be a winner!”
The Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA) is often referred to as one of the most diverse Motorsports sanctioning bodies on the planet and Sheltra admits it would be hard to argue that statement. “How cool is it when you can swing a 3400-pound stock car around on the dirt? A little slipping and sliding and a lot of car control all in 100 laps. Racing in a stock car doesn’t get much better than that.”
Sheltra, a successful dirt late model ace before moving up the ladder to stock cars added, “I think these dirt races are exactly what the racing doctor ordered for us. Overall, our team is very excited about Springfield and the upcoming race at DuQuoin because we know our chances of winning there increase tremendously. While I’m confident we have a shot at being victorious this weekend, the field is going to be strong which should put on a great show for the fans.”
After finishing 13th in the most recent ARCA race at New Jersey Motorsports Park (NJMP) last Sunday afternoon, Sheltra sits fifth in the championship standings just 95 markers behind current points’ leader and nine-time ARCA champion Frank Kimmel. Just 20 markers separate the 24-year old from moving into fourth and a mere 50 credits keeps Sheltra from re-auditioning on the championship podium.
“Truly, this (Springfield) is one of our best chances to make-up some ground in the standings. Frank (Kimmel) is always tough on the dirt but I feel like that when we unload on Sunday morning, we should have a good enough No. 60 Sheltra Motorsports / PatrickSheltra.com Dodge Charger that we can acquire some qualifying bonus points and with a positive finish, we can erase some of our deficit to the others.”
This weekend, the Sheltra Motorsports team will revert to a blast from the past when the team led by veteran crew chief Jon Wolfe will unload the No. 60 Recycling Services / Ferguson Pipe Dodge tricked out in an all camouflage paint scheme swooshed in with streaks of neon orange. The paint scheme was a normal fixture for the Sheltra Motorsports team in 2008 before scaling back and running the popular wrap only on the dirt races last year.
“The camouflage car has always been one of my favorite paint schemes,” sounded the avid hunter. “It’s a layout that instantly grabs your attention and has been very popular not only in the garage area but with the fans too. It makes sense to run it here and at DuQuoin. Just maybe, we’ll be camouflage enough where no one will be able to see us on Sunday!”
Sheltra, who will compete in the 1,307 race since the ARCA Racing Series formed in 1953, will make his fourth career start at the one-mile clay oval on Sunday. The NASCAR-bound driver made his debut at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in 2007 where he started ninth and rose to third. In 2008, Sheltra rebounded from a tire failure to finish 12th after starting 11th. Last year, Sheltra qualified a track-best of fourth, remained a factor the entire race but had to settle for another third place finish driving the No. 60 Buffalo Wings & Rings Dodge Charger.
Multiple cost-effective marketing partnership packages are still available for the 2010 ARCA Racing Series and NASCAR seasons for Patrick Sheltra. Let Sheltra Motorsports show you how to find victory lane in more ways than one! For additional information on how to be apart of our winning organization, please contact Brandon Hinson (brandon@patricksheltra.com) or email marketing@patricksheltra.com.
Entering Springfield, Sheltra has 80 ARCA Racing Series presented by RE/MAX and Menards starts to his credit with one career victory at Salem (Ind.) Speedway (April 2009). During his ARCA tenure, Sheltra has accumulated 16 top-fives and posted 32 top-10 finishes. A third place qualifying effort at Rockingham (N.C.) Speedway (April 2009) and Michigan International Speedway (June 2010) is Sheltra’s best time trials effort to date. He has controlled the ARCA field seven times for 173 laps.
The Allen Crowe 100 (100 laps / 100 miles) is the 14th of 20 events on the 2010 ARCA Racing Series presented by RE/MAX and Menards schedule. The 28th ARCA event held at the Illinois State Fairgrounds is a one-day show. Practice begins Sunday, August 22 with a one hour practice session planned from 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Menards Pole by Ansell qualifying is slated to begin at 11:00 a.m. The field will take the green flag Sunday afternoon shortly after 1:00 p.m. The race will not be televised but race coverage including live timing and scoring throughout the day will be available through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com presented by ARCANation.com. All times are local.
For the latest on Patrick Sheltra, Sheltra Motorsports and marketing partnership opportunities please visit PatrickSheltra.com.
Join the official Patrick Sheltra fan page on Facebook (Official Patrick Sheltra Fan Page) by clicking here.
Tweet with Patrick Sheltra on Twitter (@patricksheltra) at twitter.com/patricksheltra.com.
About Sheltra Motorsports:
Sheltra Motorsports (sheltramotorsports.com) is a three-tier professional Motorsports organization consisting of dirt and asphalt competition. Patrick Sheltra, a 24-year old native of Indiantown, Florida competes in the UMP and WoO (Dirt) Series; while also running a full schedule in the Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA) Racing Series presented by RE/MAX and Menards (No. 60) and a limited schedule in the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR). The team is headquartered in Indiantown, Florida with additional operations in Richmond, Indiana and Mooresville, North Carolina.
TEAM COMMUNICATIONS CONTACT:
NAME: Chris Knight, Sheltra Motorsports
PHONE: 239.834.9797 or 239.214.1083
Dirt, Ice or Pavement, Steve Arpin Has Beat Them All
Friday, August 20, 2010, 7:42:46 AM | Don Radebaugh
(CORNELIUS, N.C.) -- It doesn’t matter
what the racing surface is…mike’s hard lemonade Toyota driver Steve Arpin just
wants to conquer it. He’s won this year on a half-mile oval and a 1.5-mile
speedway. When the ARCA Racing Series presented by RE/MAX and Menards rolls
into the Illinois State Fairgrounds for this weekend’s Allen Crowe 100, he’ll
get the chance to split the size difference and race on a mile oval…but this
time, it’ll be on dirt.
"I can't wait to get back on the dirt this weekend at Springfield,” Arpin said. “Dirt is what I grew up racing on, but driving a 3400 lb. stock car on the dirt is a whole new experience. We know we have a fairly safe setup to fall back on from our run last year, but with Kevin (Caldwell) being a former dirt racer, teaming up with Josh Richards earlier this year, and my experience, we’ll show up with a whole new package!”
Arpin has had plenty of success racing on Illinois dirt tracks with victories at Macon Speedway, Tri-City Speedway, I-55 Speedway, and Quad City Speedway, to name a few.
In fact, he has records on dirt that no other driver has ever come close to duplicating...winning every heat and every feature event held at Emo Speedway (Ontario, Canada) for more than three consecutive years! He was picked up by Polaris Industries at the age of 17 to race on ice ovals becoming the youngest driver in history to race for the company. And he did much of it before his 18th birthday, including winning seven World Championships.
That expertise landed him a part-time ride this year driving for Jr. Motorsports in seven NASCAR Nationwide Series events. He scored a career-best finish of 10th at Daytona International Speedway and posted one top-five and one top-10 qualifying effort. Even having missed two ARCA races to compete for Jr. Motorsports, Arpin still maintains the 13th spot in the ARCA driver’s standings.
“The best part about being out of the points battle is that we can try new things at places like this…it should make for an interesting race!”
Arpin is the only ARCA driver to have won multiple times (Salem, Ind., Speedway and Texas Motor Speedway) this season. He’s posted three top-five and seven top-10 starts, as well as four top-five and six top-10 finishes.
The ARCA series remains the highest major level of stock car racing series to compete on dirt, and this weekend's event will be the series' first of two dirt races this season. The 100-lap, 100-mile Allen Crowe 100 is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. CT (2 p.m. ET) on Sunday, August 22, with live timing and scoring and live audio coverage presented by ARCA Nation at ARCARacing.com.
Katrina Arpin
18705 Coachmans Trce
Cornelius, NC 28031
C.507-696-7850
trina@stevearpinracing.com
Allgaier Motorsports, Robb Brent No. 36: Illinois State Fair Preview
Friday, August 20, 2010, 7:42:46 AM | Don Radebaugh
Team News, Notes and Quotes
This
Week’s Car … Robb Brent will pilot car No. 112 this weekend at
the Allen Crowe 100 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds. This weekend Brent will
pilot a white car instead of the typical black & blue car. Car No. 112
comes to Allgaier Motorsports from Ganassi Racing and the 1 mile dirt at
Springfield will be its first race as part of the Allgaier Motorsports fleet.
Brent at Springfield … In his 1 previous ARCA Racing Series start at the 1 mile dirt track Brent has a 20th place start and a 13th place finish. Brent had never raced on a dirt track until Springfield 1 year ago.
Allgaier Motorsports at Springfield … The team has a combined average starting spot of 7.71 and an average finish of 10.14. Allgaier Motorsports has led a combined total of 9 laps, 4 top 10’s, 2 top 5’s, & 1 win in only 7 starts dating back to 2003. In 2008 under the Allgaier Motorsports banner, Justin Allgaier won the 2008 ARCA series championship.
Car Chief turns driver… Kelly Kovski is the Car Chief on the Allgaier Motorsports No. 36 Orchard Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram- Charger but for 2 races a year he puts on a helmet and gets behind the wheel. This year he will be piloting Car No. 17 and driving against Brent. He has competed against former Allgaier Motorsports driver Justin Allgaier in previous years as well. Kelly and his wife Mandy recently welcomed baby Kody to the family. Mom, Baby & Big sister Kaylee are all doing well!
Most Popular Driver … Be sure to cast your vote for Robb Brent as the 2010 National Speed Sport News Most Popular Driver. Visit ARCANation.com and vote for Robb Brent today!
Twitter … Follow Allgaier Motorsports official twitter page @allgaiermtrspts for live updates from the track. Allgaier Motorsports will be giving away autographed items & race tickets to some of its twitter followers, so be sure to follow! Follow driver Robb Brent, @robbbrent for updates and insight into his everyday life.
The Action … The 100-lap, 100-mile Allen Crowe 100 is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. Central (2 Eastern) on Sunday, August 22, with live timing and scoring and live audio coverage presented by ARCA Nation at ARCARacing.com. The lone practice is scheduled for 9 a.m. Central, with Menards Pole Qualifying presented by Ansell - which has produced 11 different pole winners in 12 qualifying sessions this season - taking place at 11 a.m. Live audio coverage and live timing and scoring of all events will be available on ARCARacing.com.
Quotes …
o Crew Chief Dave Leiner, II on Springfield, “This is our home race so to speak for the team, our shop is located here in Springfield, Ill and we are pretty excited with this new car we have prepared for Robb. He ran two great races on the dirt last year and gained a lot of experience that should make him even better this year. I know we are capable of getting to Victory Lane. Last week was a heartbreaker, as we were a favorite to win and broke the transmission, but I wouldn’t count us out this week just yet!”
o Robb Brent on Springfield, “This track is fun, I was nervous coming to race on dirt the first time, but it’s a neat experience and I enjoy it. It is very different then what we normally run and it’s a change of pace. I learned a lot last year and it’s all about keeping your nose clean and not being afraid to throw it into the corners. This Orchard Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram team is based here in Springfield so it’s important that we run well for the hometown fans. I’d love to put it in Victory Lane for them, this team deserves to win as do my sponsors, I have no doubts we could get win number two this Sunday at Springfield.”
For more on Allgaier Motorsports, please log onto www.allgaiermotorsports.com
For more on Robb Brent, please log onto www.robbbrentracing.com
Deana Cumbow,
www.allgaiermotorsports.com
Coulter Ready for Dirt Track Showdown at Illinois State Fair
Friday, August 20, 2010, 7:42:46 AM | arcaracing
(HUNTERSVILLE,
N.C.) – When most people think of their state fairs, they recall the unique
sights and sounds, including rides, animals and attractions. For those who
visit the Illinois State Fairground, the roar of the 800 plus horsepower ARCA
cars hitting the dirt track is always a welcome addition. Even though young
ARCA standout Joey Coulter has only raced on the dirt twice, he feels more than
confident heading into this weekends Allen Crowe 100 (8/22/10).
“I don’t have very much experience on the dirt, but every time I have raced on it, it has been a total blast,” commented Coulter. “To go from superspeedways, to short tracks, to road courses and then to dirt, really speaks to the diversity level of ARCA and shows their dedication to the sport. I am excited to get to Springfield and get back racing, especially on the dirt.”
Though Coulter doesn’t’ have much dirt track experience in his No. 16 Darrell Gwynn Foundation, Rip It Energy Fuel Chevrolet, his crew chief Harold Holly, who is the owner of Wolf-Pack Racing, does. Holly and Coulter have spent the last week studying notes and reviewing setups while preparing for the Springfield Mile. This extensive preparation has allowed Coulter to gain a better understanding of racing on dirt, and what to expect when the 3,400-pound ARCA car hits the dirt’s ever-varying conditions.
Coulter will be piloting car No. 013, affectionately named “JJ”, for this week’s first dirt excursion of the season. He ran “JJ” last year at both dirt events at DuQuoin (9/7/09) and Springfield (8/23/10) impressing everyone along the way with his newfound knack at “sideways” racing. Coulter ran in the top five the entire race at Springfield before a competitor ended his day with an intentional wreck. He redeemed his dirt skills a few weeks later at DuQuoin where he qualified an impressive second and finished third.
As Coulter heads to Springfield, the race marks the third of four in pursuit of the Bill France Four Crown award, the season-within-a-season contest which rewards ARCA Racing Series drivers for success on a diverse slate of tracks. The Four Crown schedule is comprised of the ARCA Series races scheduled for August, with the final race to be held at the 1.5-mile Chicagoland Speedway on August 27. Coulter is the current Four Crown point’s leader with a 30-point advantage over second.
“Going into the Springfield race as the Four Crown points leader is really a motivation booster,” said Coulter. “My guys have really stepped up to the plate this year and we have got our program back on track after a rocky patch. They give me the best cars week in and week out without a doubt and I am ready to hit the dirt this weekend and have another solid finish.”
The ARCA Racing Series presented by RE/MAX and Menards visits the one-mile dirt track at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, Ill. on Sunday, August 22. Practice begins at 10 a.m. Eastern, with Menards Pole Qualifying presented by Ansell following at noon. Make sure to tune in, to catch Joey Coulter in his No. 16 Darrell Gwynn Foundation, Rip It Energy Fuel Chevrolet in the 100-lap, 100-mile Allen Crowe 100 at 2 p.m. Eastern, with live timing and scoring at ARCARacing.com.
You can also get LIVE updates wherever Joey goes by following Joey on Twitter at http://twitter.com/joeycoulter
Please log onto www.LiftUpEllie.com to help support the Potvin family.
You can also vote for Joey Coulter as the most popular ARCA driver for 2010 at www.arcanation.com/joeycoulter
Please be sure to check out Joey’s official website at www.joeycoulter.com
Catch Joey’s LIVE radio show, 5 @ 5 with Joey Coulter, every Wednesday at 5:00 PM EST exclusively on www.RaceFanRadio.com
Also please be sure to support Joey’s sponsors at:
Rip It Energy Fuel: www.ripitenergy.com
Tempest Cycles: www.tempestcycles.com
MAD Industry: www.areumad.com
About Darrell Gwynn Foundation (DGF)
www.darrellgwynnfoundation.org
The Darrell Gwynn Foundation (DGF) is a certified non-profit 501(c) 3 agency. DGF exists to prevent, provide for and ultimately cure spinal cord injuries and other debilitating illnesses. To expedite specific cures, the Foundation assists in the funding of targeted research. DGF is also dedicated to injury prevention, with special emphasis on programs targeting children. The Foundation helps improve the quality of life for those already afflicted with injury or illness, by providing necessary equipment or special services. DGF is an official charity of the Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction, National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) and has a close affiliation with NASCAR and the NASCAR Foundation.
MEDIA CONTACT
Nic Moncher
Coulter Motorsports
Director of Public Relations
Craig Goess ARCA Racing Series Advance:
Friday, August 20, 2010, 7:42:46 AM | arcaracing
Race: Allen Crowe 100
ARCA Racing Series presented by RE/MAX and Menards: 14
of 20
Track: Illinois State Fairgrounds
Date: August 22, 2010
Goess and the No. 81 Greenville Toyota of N.C. Eddie Sharp Racing Toyota head to first dirt track race of the season at the Illinois State Fairgrounds on Sunday, August 22. Goess, coming off an eighth-place finish at the road course of New Jersey Motorsports Park, looks to continue his streak of seven consecutive top-10 finishes, marking his 10th top-10 of the 13 races so far this season.
Craig Goess Fast Facts:
Last Race: New Jersey Motorsports Park: Goess took on his second road course of the year at the 2.25-mile Thunderbolt Raceway course at the New Jersey Motorsports Park. The weekend got off to a rough start when Goess wrecked his car during the first practice, then the engine blew in the back-up car during the final practice. Despite the bumpy start, Goess was able to bring home an eighth-place finish.
Goess on the Dirt: The August 2009 race at the Illinois State Fairgrounds marked Goess' first-ever race on a dirt track. The driver, who grew up racing on asphalt in Legends cars, got caught up in an accident halfway through the race, and he settled for a 26th-place finish. The series also traveled to the DuQuoin State Fairgrounds in September 2009, a one-mile clay oval track, where Goess competed in his second dirt track race. After only five laps in the 100-lap race, the No. 81 got caught up in a five-car accident. He finished the race 34th. The series will head back to the DuQuoin, Illinois dirt track this season on September 6.
In the Points: Goess moved down one position in the ARCA Racing Series point standings to second-place behind Frank Kimmel, who finished fourth at NJMP. Goess is only 10 points out of the first-place position with seven races remaining in the 2010 ARCA Racing Series schedule.
Listen live: Live scoring, timing and audio will be available during practice, qualifying and the Allen Crowe 100 on www.ARCARacing.com.
QUOTES
Goess on running the dirt track at Illinois State Fairgrounds: "Last season, we didn't have the best of luck at the dirt tracks. The race at the Illinois State Fairgrounds was my first race ever on a dirt track. I'm going back to the dirt tracks with more experience in the series, and I'm really looking forward to it. Coming off the road course race in New Jersey, it really shows how diverse the tracks are that we compete at throughout one season. That is what makes the ARCA Racing Series unique."
Goess' ARCA Racing Series Dirt Track History
No. Year Track Start Finish Laps Notes
81 2009-Aug Springfield 18 26 63/103 Crash
81 2009-Sept DuQuoin 12 34 5/100 Crash
Goess' ARCA Racing Series 2010 Season
Date Track Start Finish Laps Notes
2/6 Daytona 33 34 16/80 Crash
2/27 Palm Beach 10 13 69/70 Running
4/11 Salem 19 2 200/200 Running
4/16 Texas 6 2 105/105 Running
4/23 Talladega 22 4 94/94 Running
5/23 Toledo 6 14 198/200 Running
6/5 Pocono 3 1 80/80 Running
6/10 Michigan 1 6 100/100 Running
7/10 Iowa 6 8 200/200 Running
7/17 Mansfield 3 2 200/200 Running
7/31 Pocono 4 3 50/50 Running
8/5 Berlin 9 9 200/200 Running
8/15 New Jersey 17 8 67/76 Running
Race length: 100 laps/ 100 miles
Track layout: 1 mile
Shape: Clay oval
SCHEDULE
(All times in CDT)
Sunday, August 22
9 - 10 a.m. Practice
11 a.m. Qualifying
1 p.m. Allen Crowe 100
activ8 communications
Erin Sagester
Senior Manager
Social Media and Public Relations
704.664.5900
erin@goactiv8.com
Dustin Long
Kyle Busch responds to Keselowski's verbal dig with his actions on and off the track
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 12:42:54 AM
Fans don't want their drivers to be vanilla, so one of the things Bristol Motor Speedway did a couple years ago or so was to allow drivers to pick their own music to walk out on during intros and say whatever they pleased into a mic for the crowd to hear. The hope was to try to spice things up.
Brian Vickers has surgery to close hole in heart; vows he'll race again next year
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 3:09:20 PM
Brian Vickers met with the media on Saturday at Bristol and gave an update on his medical condition. As you recall, he's been out since May because of blood clots.
Would you be fine if a driver won the title without winning a race? Some drivers are OK with it
Friday, August 20, 2010, 2:57:36 PM
While there's still a lot of time left in the season, it is worth noting that half of the drivers in the top 12 heading into Saturday night's race at Bristol have not won yet this season.
Contenders shoving aside favorite role; Kelley Earnhardt on Nationwide issues
Friday, August 20, 2010, 1:29:51 PM
Kevin Harvick is the only driver who has clinched a spot so far in the Chase and is the points leader, but he has only 30 bonus points and would enter the Chase behind Denny Hamlin and Jimmie Johnson. Here's what the standings would look like if the Chase started today: 1. Jimmie Johnson ... 5,050 points Denny Hamlin .............5,050 points
Sneak peak: A look at the songs drivers picked for pre-race intros at Bristol
Thursday, August 19, 2010, 11:39:21 AM
One of the better new traditions in the sport is the driver introductions at Bristol for the Cup races there. What makes it fun for the fans is that drivers pick the song that they want to be played when they are introduced. It creates a lot of discussion from those saying they can't believe a driver picked a certain song to rejoicing in a driver picked the same song that is a fan's favorite.
NASCAR releases 2011 schedules for Cup, Nationwide and Trucks
Wednesday, August 18, 2010, 4:48:58 PM
NASCAR released its 2011 schedules for Cup, Nationwide and Trucks on Wednesday. They are all listed below. The changes to the Cup schedule have already been detailed, so here's a few things on the other schedules. The Nationwide Series drops from 35 races this year to 34 races next season. Both Iowa and Chicagoland Speedway got second dates as Gateway dropped its two dates.
Life on the Chase bubble: Clint Bowyer admits he's feeling the stress
Wednesday, August 18, 2010, 9:45:47 AM
Clint Bowyer has been here before but it still doesn't make it easy on the bubble to make the Chase with three races to go. Bowyer enters Saturday night's race at Bristol 12th in the standings. Greg Biffle, who is in 11th, appreas to have a big enough cushion that he should make the Chase, thus the battle is for the last spot.
Harvick, once miffed at comparisons to Dale Earnhardt, embraces such talk now
Tuesday, August 17, 2010, 7:17:06 PM
Kevin Harvick admits it took him years to get over all the comparisons with Dale Earnhardt whenever Harvick accomplished something.
Budweiser sponsoring Harvick next year but reducing number of races as primary sponsor
Tuesday, August 17, 2010, 12:58:53 PM
Richard Childress Racing announced Tuesday that Budweiser
will be the primary sponsor for Kevin Harvick's team, beginning next year. A
Bud executive said the deal is for 3 years.
FOXSports.com News for NASCAR
Red Bull still unsure of NASCAR plans for 2011
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 11:38:20 PM
Red Bull still has not figured out its plans for 2011
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Kyle Busch completes historic NASCAR trifecta at Bristol
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 10:39:30 PM
Kyle Busch completes historic NASCAR trifecta with Bristol win.
0821-Kyle-Busch-2-Primary_20100821230151_335_220.JPG
NASCAR reducing Nationwide purses
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 9:15:05 PM
NASCAR will cut the purses for the Nationwide Series by 20 percent next season, a move designed to make hosting the second-tier series a more profitable proposition for race tracks.
082110-NASCAR-Bristol-Gallery-JW-PI_20100821212147_335_220.JPG
NASCAR Sprint Cup Irwin Tools Night Race at Bristol
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 7:34:05 PM
Kyle Busch completes Bristol historic trifecta with win.
0821-Kyle-Busch-Primary_20100821222425_335_220.JPG
Presented By:
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 7:34:05 PM
Vickers had surgery to close hole in heart
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 2:45:29 PM
NASCAR driver Brian Vickers says he had heart surgery last month as part of his treatment for blood clots.
Indy Racing League
California dreaming: Power sweeps weekend
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 8:00:00 PM
Will Power increases his championship points lead with his fifth victory of season in Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma.
Andretti pleased to present road trophy
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 8:00:00 PM
Will Power receives the inaugural Mario Andretti Road Championship Trophy following the Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma.
High-speed laps are 'the thrill of a lifetime'
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 8:00:00 PM
Sweepstakes at www.shophonda.com open for rides at Chicagoland Speedway and Homestead-Miami Speedway.
Vernay increases title margin with victory
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 8:00:00 PM
Carneros 100 win gives J.K. Vernay 71-point lead over James Hinchcliffe heading into final three oval races.
Five things to watch in Infineon race
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 8:00:00 PM
It's difficult to pass on the circuit, but drivers will create opportunities in Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma.
Vineyard design flows at Infineon
Friday, August 20, 2010, 8:00:00 PM
E.J. Viso's cousin, Juan Carlos, creates and produces a different helmet design for each IZOD IndyCar Series race.
Dixon tops pre-qualifying practice session
Friday, August 20, 2010, 8:00:00 PM
Top 16 cars separated by less than one second heading into three rounds of qualifications.
Vernay earns pole; Kimball starts second
Friday, August 20, 2010, 8:00:00 PM
J.K. Vernay had a quick lap of 1 minute, 23.5582 seconds to win the Sunoco Pole Award.
One instance in which drinking, driving mix
Friday, August 20, 2010, 8:00:00 PM
The Foyt family's roots in motorsports run deep, and they're sprouting in the wine business, too.
Power-ing through for series-record 8th pole
Friday, August 20, 2010, 8:00:00 PM
Will Power bumps his way into the Firestone Fast Six and then grabs eighth PEAK Performance Pole Award.
Paul J Miller V’s First Kart Race
Little Paul is just two years old and
attended his first kart race on August 21, 2010 at the Florence Motor Speedway
Kart Track. He thought the races were
exciting! He is a big “Cars” fan and is
anticipating the day when his feet can reach the pedals so he can get behind
the wheel of a kart and begin a racing career.
For now he’ll be practicing his driving techniques in his HD Ford F-150 PowerWheel.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zfdMY8lolSA
Motorcycle USA Article Headlines
2010 Maine National Enduro Results
Today, August 23, 2010, 2 hours ago | Shan Moore
Russell Bobbitt claims his first win of the year at the Noble Woods National Enduro
Promotions in AMA Communications Department
Friday, August 20, 2010, 7:59:00 PM | Press Release
Grant Parsons and James Holter were recently promoted to Director of Communications and Managing Editor of American Motorcyclist magazine respectively within the AMA communications department.
Dunlop Download Features Multi-Series Action
Friday, August 20, 2010, 7:29:00 PM | Steve Atlas
The August issue of Dunlop Download magazine is available online now, featuring 35 pages of racing action from all ends of the motorcycle world.
Tim Ferry to be Honored at FMF Steel City MX
Friday, August 20, 2010, 5:00:00 PM | Press Release
MX Sports Pro Racing has invited former factory Kawasaki rider Tim Ferry to serve as the honorary Grand Marshall for Round 11 of the 2010 AMA Pro Motocross Championship at Steel City.
2010 Fleet of New Harley-Davidsons
Friday, August 20, 2010, 3:26:00 PM | Press Release
Harley-Davidson had its 2010 Road Glide Ultra and XL883L SuperLow models out for show in Las Vegas while unveiling their 2011 lineup to dealers around the world.
Sparta Launches Cyclechex
Friday, August 20, 2010, 2:56:00 PM | Press Release
Sparta has launched a new service called Cyclechex, which offers the public a way to obtain motorcycle history reports that include crash data, last recorded mileage and the number of previous owners.
Jason Anderson Wins MX Horizon Award
Friday, August 20, 2010, 2:11:00 PM | Press Release
Jason Anderson had been crowned as the 2010 AMA Racing's Horizon Award Winner after winning four of his six motos in the 450 A and 250 A/Pro Sport classes.
Helmut Fath's Title Winning Sidecar at Bonhams
Friday, August 20, 2010, 1:30:00 PM | Press Release
This year at Bonhams annual sale of Collectors' Motorcycles and Related Memorabilia, Helmut Faith's championship-winning sidecar will be for sale alongside many other eclectic machines.
Maria Costello is Fastest Woman in Ulster GP
Friday, August 20, 2010, 11:45:00 AM | Press Release
Maria Costello put in a superb run at the Ulster Grand Prix and became the fastest woman after beating the previous lap record held by Anita Buxton by nearly two seconds.
GNCC's Chris Bach to Race EnduroCross in Indy
Friday, August 20, 2010, 11:27:00 AM | Press Release
Currently ranked fifth in GNCC's premier XC1 class, Chirs Bach has decided to race in his first ever EnduroCross event in Indianapolis on August 27th.
Riding Japan: Stranger in a Strange Land
Friday, August 20, 2010, 11:00:00 AM | Bart Madson
One of our editors visits Japan for a motorcycle tour with Bridgestone, returning with visions of Rockabilly motorcycles gangs dancing in his head.
NASCAR.COM - Sprint Cup Series Headlines
Reutimann guts it out for second-place finish
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 1:16:10 AM
When this race weekend began, David Reutimann was flat on his back in bed, fighting some sort of horrible stomach issue.
Busch grabs spot in record books with sweep
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 12:25:06 AM
Check off a major accomplishment from Kyle Busch's bucket list.
Notes: Red Bull undecided on team size for 2011 season
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 8:48:23 PM
On the assumption Brian Vickers will return to the No. 83 Toyota next season, Red Bull faces a choice between adding a third team to accommodate the signing of Kasey Kahne for one year or replacing Scott Speed with Kahne and continuing to operate as a two-car team.
Vickers has heart surgery, vows to return in '11
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 4:06:57 PM
After having surgery to close a hole in his heart this summer, Brian Vickers fully expects to be back in a Sprint Cup car by the start of the 2011 season.
NASCAR.COM - Nationwide Series Headlines
Nationwide purses to take 20 percent hit in 2011
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 8:56:25 PM
NASCAR will cut the purses of its second-tier Nationwide Series by 20 percent next season.
NASCAR.COM - Camping World Series Headlines
Lia, SS Green Light Racing decide to part ways
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 12:32:11 PM
With nine races left in the Truck Series schedule, SS Green Light Racing and Donny Lia have mutually agreed to seek other opportunities for the remainder of the 2010 season.
Busch rallies to win caution-marred Bristol race
Thursday, August 19, 2010, 11:41:43 AM
In a race where the typical Bristol gremlins came out early and often, Kyle Busch managed to get his out of the way before the green flag waved.
Busch on pole at Bristol; Buescher to start second
Wednesday, August 18, 2010, 6:47:37 PM
Kyle Busch turned a lap of 15.604 seconds (122.968 mph) in qualifying Wednesday to earn the pole for the O'Reilly 200 at Bristol Motor Speedway, his first in six races at the half-mile bullring.
Truck Series Blog
Wednesday, August 18, 2010, 11:12:37 AM
Aug. 18, 2010
Truck Preview: Peters carries newfound momentum into Bristol
Wednesday, August 18, 2010, 9:47:52 AM
Timothy Peters doesn't mind the quick turnaround from Saturday night's Truck Series race at Darlington to Wednesday's O'Reilly 200 at Bristol Motor Speedway (7:30 p.m. ET, SPEED).
Notes: Truck Series tackles three races in 12 long days
Tuesday, August 17, 2010, 2:42:33 PM
If you are traveling down Interstate 81 this week, chances are you will hear Willie Nelson's On the Road Again blaring from a race hauler's radio.
NASCAR.COM RaceView to sponsor No. 18 Toyota at Bristol
Tuesday, August 17, 2010, 1:31:10 PM
Perhaps one of the most unique stops on the Camping World Truck Series schedule is the traditional Wednesday-night event in late August at legendary Bristol Motor Speedway.
Germain Racing adds Paludo to lineup for 2010
Monday, August 16, 2010, 3:30:46 PM
Germain Racing is adding Miguel Paludo to its Truck Series lineup beginning at Bristol Motor Speedway on Wednesday.
Bodine cruises to win at Darlington, his third of '10
Monday, August 16, 2010, 11:22:23 AM
In a season where seemingly nothing can go wrong, good fortune smiled on Todd Bodine once again in Saturday night's Truck Series Too Tough To Tame 200 at Darlington Raceway.
Peters on pole at Darlington, sets track record
Saturday, August 14, 2010, 6:38:45 PM
Timothy Peters won his second pole of the season, setting a track record with a lap of 28.784 seconds (170.845 mph) in qualifying for Saturday's Too Tough to Tame 200 Truck Series race at Darlington.
Truck Preview: Return to Darlington brings excitement, uneasiness
Friday, August 13, 2010, 10:38:17 AM
The Camping World Truck Series returns to Darlington Raceway this weekend after a nearly six-year absence with a race that is appropriately named the Too Tough to Tame 200 (7 p.m. ET Saturday on SPEED).
Darlington's rebirth continues with Truck race
Wednesday, August 11, 2010, 3:49:11 PM
This is one NASCAR schedule shake-up Darlington Raceway president Chris Browning is not sweating out.
Notes: Return to Darlington figures to be wide-open affair
Tuesday, August 10, 2010, 4:42:33 PM
Saturday's Too Tough To Tame 200 is proof positive that you can go home again.
Road Racer X
Honda Road Racerhead #34
Friday, August 20, 2010, 5:31:32 PM | CJ
It's official—Rossi will be
wearing (and riding) red next year. • Photo by Andrew Northcott
Road Racerhead comes to you today from the majestic mountains of Whistler, Canada, where I’m squeezing in a quick family trip before MotoGP returns to the U.S. next weekend for the second time in one month. In the interim, the series spent last weekend in the Czech Republic, and as usual, the Brno Grand Prix offered more than its share of interesting developments.
Though it was far from a surprise, the big one was the official confirmation that Valentino Rossi will ride with Ducati for the next two years. I don’t often say “I told you so” (more because I’m rarely right than out of tact), but I’ll go ahead and take this opportunity to remind everyone of my February 19 column, in which I imagined the start of the 2011 season and painted a tongue-in-cheek picture of a reality in which Rossi was riding red, Ben Spies had taken his place on the factory Yamaha team, Casey Stoner had moved to Repsol Honda, and Nicky Hayden had re-signed with Ducati.
Will Ben Spies make like
Rossi in obeying CJ's February predictions? • Photo by Andrew Northcott
Well, it looks like I nailed those developments (the Hayden one still hasn’t been finalized but appears very likely), and if you don’t mind, we’ll just overlook my prognostications that Stoner would win this year’s title, Dani Pedrosa would move to Ducati Marlboro, Rossi’s Ducati would be fielded by Jorge “Aspar” Martinez, and Colin Edwards would be The Doctor’s business manager. (The latest word from GP One is that that role will now be officially handled by Davide Brivio, while Spies could be looked after by Massimo Meregalli.) On the other hand, I’m still holding out hope that Marco Simoncelli will make me look like a genius by shaving his mane into a faux-hawk.
In this week’s TGI Monday trivia contest, we asked readers to name the various displacements with which Rossi has won world titles, and the answer is 125, 250, and 500 (on two-strokes), plus 990 and 800 (with four-strokes). It’ll be interesting to see if he can add 1000cc to the list. As we expected, we got a ton of correct answers, but it was Loveland, Ohio, reader Bill Bowlin who will be receiving the Wrooom beanie from Ducati’s annual MotoGP press launch, plus a bottle of Valentino Rossi San Giovese wine from Tavullia’s Bar dello Sport. (Just to be thorough, I tested a bottle myself, and it’s worthy of the Rossi label.)
Roger Hayden (pictured) and
Kenny Noyes won't be the only Americans on the Moto2 grid at Indy.... • Photo
by Wheeler/Brown
Anyway, although it can be easy to overlook at times, we still have a good chunk of this season left to run, starting with the aforementioned Red Bull Indianapolis GP. If you read our Tuesday Conversation with Kenny Noyes, then you know that he and the other two Americans who will be racing the Moto2 class—wildcard riders Roger Hayden and Jason DiSalvo—were set to test this week at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. That outing went down yesterday and today, with full-timer Noyes restricted to a production-based Kawasaki ZX-6R that he borrowed from American racer Gene Burcham and the other two allowed to ride their race machines.
There will also be other activities in the lead-up to the event. Noyes will be swimming with dolphins, and ex-Indiana Pacers player (and big-time motorcycle enthusiast) Rik Smits will be meeting some of the riders. And of course it was also announced this week that ultimate motorcycling ambassador Jay Leno will be the grand marshal for the whole weekend, so the race and series should get some good publicity out of that.
Jason DiSalvo's Indy Moto2
effort will be crew chiefed by AMA Pro's Al Ludington. • Photo by Wheeler/Brown
DiSalvo’s participation in the Indy race was a relatively recent development, and just this week came word that AMA Pro technical director (and former Honda crew chief) Al Ludington will be serving as the crew chief on JD’s GP Tech-prepped FTR machine next weekend. I’ve seen quite a few critical comments about the arrangement, but I just see it as Al taking advantage of an opportunity to stay on top of new technology and get some firsthand experience with the Grand Prix series, as you’d expect from a dedicated AMA Pro employee. As for performance, I don’t think either Al or JD have lost any edge in their respective fields.
When the Moto2 format was set to debut this year, many people wondered if it would work out better for American racers than the 250cc platform did. I know it’s still early, but I think we can already say that appears to be the case. Yes, there was the odd experimentation with the quarter-liter machines by gringos in the past (with Freddie Spencer’s and John Kocinski’s respective 1985 and ’90 titles being the most notable examples), but it’s been a long time since we’ve had anything like the current situation, with one Yank racing the class full-time and two top U.S. racers putting in serious wildcard appearances at their home race. Hopefully the trend continues.
AMA Pro American Superbike
frontrunners Josh Hayes (pictured) and Tommy Hayden each took at win at VIR,
keeping the points chase tight. • Photo by Nelson/Riles
How will our guys do? I don’t know, but I’m figuring it’s a good sign that this is Road Racerhead #34 for the year….
Last weekend was also the VIR round of AMA Pro Road Racing, and American Superbike title rivals Josh Hayes and Tommy Hayden traded wins over the two days of racing, meaning the former still has the same lead on the latter but is one lap closer to the finish line. On the other hand, Danny Eslick pulled out a hard-earned but still-slight edge over Josh Herrin in Daytona SportBike, a class that saw Bobby Fong score his first win on Sunday. With four races left, Danny leads by twelve, 306-295.
Congrats to JD Beach, who clinched the SuperSport East crown at VIR. That title goes well with JD’s 2008 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup championship, and bodes well for his future. It’s racers like JD who represent the future for American racing, and I’m looking forward to seeing these guys move up the ranks. Also, with hot shoes like him and Steve Bonsey, even dirt track can hold out hope for a healthy tomorrow.
We posted a unique gallery of Evan Williams images from at and around the race, and Shift has a nice selection of shots of their riders too.
Road Racer X reached an important benchmark when our Facebook page reached 20,151 fans. If you’re not onboard yet, check it out right here, and while you’re at it, make sure you’re following our Twitter page.
Danny Eslick maintains a
slight advantage over Josh Herrin in AMA Pro Daytona SportBike. • Photo by
Nelson/Riles
Mark “Backmarker” Gardiner sent me a note that a world record was set this week for the highest price of a Porsche sold at an auction, at $3,965,000. What does that have to do with motorcycles? The 1972-’73 917 Interserie Spyder was raced by none other than Mike Hailwood.
Meanwhile, here in Whistler, we’ve got running trails to explore and friends to have fun with, so I’m going to call Road Racerhead good here and get back to you next week from Indy. Thanks for reading.
JD Beach to Contend Three AMA Pro Flat Track Rounds
Friday, August 20, 2010, 11:17:07 AM | admin
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (August 19, 2010) – One of the most successful and popular 18 year old motorcycle racers in the world, J. D. Beach rides on a variety of different types of disciplines and J.D. will be displaying his considerable talents on three of the most revered and classic events on the AMA Pro Flat Track racing calendar.
J.D. has already competed in four AMA Pro K&N Filters Grand National Championship Presented by Motorcycle-Superstore.com events this year with wins at the celebrated new Flat Track in Daytona and also the Springfield TT. In addition to his successful Flat Track activities, J.D. recently clinched the AMA Pro SuperSport Young Gun East Divisional Championship by winning for the seventh time in 2010 on his Rockwall Engineering Yamaha.
J.D. will compete in the Pro Singles class on Sunday, August 22nd at the Peoria TT and then the Lucas Oil Indy Mile on Saturday, August 28th. It is worth mentioning that J.D. won both of these races in 2009 so he is looking forward to his return.
The next big step for this extremely talented young man will be the move up from Pro Singles to Expert rider at the K&N Filters Grand National Championship event at the Springfield Short Track and Mile on Labor Day Weekend, September 4-5, 2010.
J.D. commented on his upcoming races, “I would like to win Peoria and especially Indy in the Pro Singles. My goal at the Mile in Springfield is to make the main event and try to finish in the top ten, although a podium would be great!”
J.D. will be riding the Rogers-Lake prepared XR750 Harley-Davidson at Springfield along with 2009 AMA Pro Twins National Champion Jared Mees.
Please visit www.amaproracing for more event information and all the latest news on AMA Pro Racing.
Alpinestars Surfboards at Fashion Boutique
Friday, August 20, 2010, 10:19:45 AM | admin
Alpinestars has produced 5
unique surfboard covers which meld a passion for surf culture with a rich
history in motorcycle racing technology and protection. Currently on display at
Costa Mesa lifestyle fashion boutique The Closet, the 5 surfboards are an
interpretation of Alpinestars’ racing technology, in a context outside of
racing.
All of the pieces and
materials used to create these board covers are borrowed from Alpinestars’
leather racing suits and other protective pieces. The 5 covers were
hand-stitched and assembled in Alpinestars’ dedicated racing development
factory in Asolo Italy, where a team of engineers, designers and seamstresses
are devoted specifically to the Alpinestars racing program and athletes. These
surfboards draw inspiration from the Alpinestars’ leather racing suits that
protect World Champion athletes.
The board covers are constructed using:
* Full grain leather
* Perforated leather
* Stretch Kevlar
* Accordion-stretch leather panels
* Bionic Back protector (rear stomp pad)
* Bionic Chest Protector (front stomp pad)
* Racing Replica suit elbow protectors (side rails)
* Super Tech R boot mesh insert (nose)
* Bionic short backbone protectors (fins)
5 of these unique boards were constructed and one will be given away. All Alpinestars purchases between now and September 6th, at any of THE CLOSET’S four Southern California locations will automatically enter customers in a drawing to win one of the boards.
Monster MotoGP Theater: BRNO
Thursday, August 19, 2010, 2:53:43 PM | admin
Commissioned by
Monster, Monster MotoGP Theater delivers two super-slick, high-definition
2-minutes videos from each and every MotoGP round, featuring Monster athletes
Valentino Rossi, Ben Spies, Colin Edwards, and Toni Elias. Road
Racer X is the exclusive media carrier of Monster MotoGP Theater,
so check back in the days following each of the eight remaining MotoGP rounds
for more.
Monster MotoGP Theater: Brno – Race
Monster MotoGP Theater: Brno – Interviews
For more Monster MotoGP news and video, visit Monster Energy at www.monsterenergy.com or MotoGP at www.motogp.com.
End
SLIDESHOW: Umbrella Girls of the Week, Brno MotoGP
Thursday, August 19, 2010, 2:01:05 PM | admin
BRNO MOTOGP • PHOTO BY ANDREW NORTHCOTT
Suzuki Signs as Manx Grand Prix Festival Sponsor (Pic)
Thursday, August 19, 2010, 12:56:06 PM | admin
Leading Japanese motorcycle
manufacturer, Suzuki, has been confirmed as the official motorcycle partner for
this year’s Manx Grand Prix Festival, taking place on the Isle of Man from 21st
August – 5th September, as the brand celebrates its 50th year of international
racing.
Fresh from backing the legendary TT event in June, Suzuki
will support the Manx Grand 
Prix Festival by providing
the travelling marshals with the very latest GSX-R1000 superbikes, enabling
officials to react rapidly to any incidents and general management of the 37.73
mile course.
Suzuki GB marketing manager, George Cheeseman, commented, “Naturally we are delighted to be able to support the Manx Grand Prix Festival this year. In June we celebrated our 50th anniversary of International racing on the Island, so it’s great to return and support an event that has such a rich history and renowned atmosphere. While it’s important to support the factory teams at events like the TT, we know that it’s the racers in events like the Manx Grand Prix that have made Suzuki what it is today.”
While Suzuki celebrate their big racing milestone, the GSX-R range also celebrates its own anniversary in 2010, with 25 years of production. Starting with the first GSX-R750 in 1985, the very latest machines, as used by the Manx travelling marshals, boast 185BHP and offer changeable engine modes with a chassis boasting class leading agility, thanks to developments like the very latest Showa Big Piston Forks.
Loris Capirossi Blog Installment
Thursday, August 19, 2010, 12:51:34 PM | admin
We have had quite a tough
season so far and we are not where we want to be in the championship. The whole
team is working so hard and we just don’t seem to be getting any luck coming
our way; and if we do it is bad luck.
The Suzuki GSV-R has improved quite a bit this season from the bike it was last year, but we need more time to test things and find the right solution. Once we do that I know we can be competitive and battling at the right end of the race.
We had a test just after the Brno race in the Czech Republic. It was a very positive test and although it started to rain in the afternoon and we had to finish early, we did manage to get almost all of the work done we needed to. Most things we tested were a step in the right direction so now hopefully the guys back at Suzuki will be able to work on our test data and see what improvements they can make for the rest of the year.
We’ve got a really tough run-in until the end of the season, with eight races in 11 weekends, so we’ve still got a lot of opportunities in front of us to get back up amongst the pack where we should be. I will certainly be giving it everything to get the results that the team deserves and pushing as hard as I can to end the season on a high and put the first part of the year right behind us.
Backmarker: Spend green, be green—a day in the life of Brammo’s Enertia “Powercycle”
Thursday, August 19, 2010, 9:00:23 AM | Mark Gardiner
More than a year ago, I rode and wrote about the Brammo Enertia prototype. Last week, I finally got my hands on the production version. The bike I tested was the property of my friend Harry Mallin, who lives in Kansas City, went to school with Brammo founder Craig Bramscher, and blogs under the alias Brammofan, so you know where his allegiance lies.
At a claimed 324 pounds,
the Enertia Powercycle is light. Despite that dual-sport look, it has a street
bike's five-inches-or-so of suspension travel and relatively low ground
clearance, so it's not overly tall. It seems like you'd drag those low pegs,
but you don't; maybe because the whole bike's so narrow. • Mark Gardiner photo
Harry dropped off his shiny new Enertia—the only one in KC—on his way to work, after agreeing to finish his commute on my Bonneville. Before leaving, he brought me up to speed on the Brammo’s start-up ritual. I’ve read other testers complaining that it’s over-elaborate, and I guess that it might get to be a pain. But the first few times, it’s kind of fun and underlines the fact that this isn’t your dad’s motorcycle.
Prior to embarking on my one-day test, I brought it down into the bat-cave and plugged it in, so I’d be starting with a full charge. While topping it up, I took in the build quality and componentry. Unlike some electric bikes that in many ways still betray their downhill mountain bike roots, the Brammo’s built from motorcycle parts—albeit light-duty ones. The Marzocchi fork is only minimally adjustable, but it’s full-size. The Elka shock is tiny but tidy. Brembo brakes are confidence inspiring. The plastics—and there’s an acre of plastic—look good, at least on this low-mileage specimen. Nothing about the bike, on first impression, belies its $7,995 MSRP. (After all applicable tax credits, most buyers will have a net cost that’s at least 10% lower, and in some states the final cost could be much less.)
According to the dash display, it was going to take an hour to top up the battery after Harry’s twelve-mile ride, so I went upstairs to finish breakfast. When I went back down to check on it, the charger cooling fan had kicked in and was making quite a loud hum. I guess that would only be bothersome if you were the kind of hipster who took it right into your loft or office to charge it.
Once it was ready to go, I went through the key-turning, button-pushing, switch-flicking sequence that yields sexy flashing green LEDs and a message that the drive is engaged. There are no excuses for accidentally blipping the throttle on this thing and having it lurch away from you.
That bar-end mirror is the
only mod the owner has made. The stock mirrors were well-positioned for me, and
in the absence of vibration, the image was crystal-clear. Getting the electrons
flowing involves turning the key, pushing/holding that button on the top of the
tank, cycling the kill switch, and—last but not least—ensuring that the
headlight is on. • Mark Gardiner photo
Like other electrics I’ve tested, there’s no clutch or gearbox, so your left hand and foot have nothing much to do. (The machine would probably be better served by a rear brake lever on the front handlebar like a bicycle, but that wouldn’t meet licensing requirements.) The “throttle” (for want of a better word) takeup was the best I’ve felt on an e-bike. Smooth starts from a dead stop are as easy as they are on a twist-and-go like my Yamaha Vino. This is a key issue in EVs, because electric motors make full torque at any throttle setting. A year or two back when I was riding Brammo’s prototypes (as well as those of other manufacturers) they were pretty jumpy; smooth takeoffs required coordinating both throttle and brake, and in cornering, it was hard to get back on the “gas” without upsetting the bikes.
The seat height was not a problem for me at 5′7”, but it’s tall enough that some neophyte riders will find it intimidating. By contrast, the pegs feel almost alarmingly low; as if they’d drag in even moderate cornering (but they don’t). The initial impression of the seat and ride generally is firm-to-hard; I found myself transferring weight to the pegs when I saw even small potholes or bumps coming up. That said, Brammo’s chassis designer Aaron Bland nailed this bike’s steering geometry and weight distribution. Handling at all speeds was stable, confidence-inspiring, and instinctive.
Others have noted the steering lock at slow speeds, and that was an issue. Considering the intended duty of this bike—urban commuting—and frequent need to slalom between cars at walking speed when filtering in stop-and-go city traffic, a tighter turning radius is mandatory for the next generation.
Underway, the circa-14 hp motor is powerful enough to keep you safely ahead of surface traffic. To put it in perspective, I dropped by the house of a friend—Jim van Eman, an avid, lifelong motorcyclist who’s also an architect specializing in sustainability—to show it off. His car is a Honda Insight, and his daily rider is a well-used Kawasaki KLR650. We swapped bikes and ran an errand, to visit one of his building sites. At under 50 mph, I had to ride the KLR pretty aggressively to keep up with him, using lots of throttle and shifting to keep it in the powerband. Once I’d let Jim try the Brammo, I thought I was going to have to pry his dead fingers off the handlebar to get it back.
I didn't have time to try
adjusting the Canadian-made Elka shock, which was still on stock settings. As
delivered, it's set or sprung too stiff for 98-pound weaklings like me. • Mark
Gardiner photo
I didn’t want to die holding the bar, either, so I was very aware that I was zipping up behind and beside cars in almost complete silence. (It’s not really silent; there’s a loud cooling fan, chain noise, and bit of tire hum, but still….) I haven’t felt so invisible since that embarrassing night out at the singles bar. But seriously, folks, it caused me to reconsider the many times I’ve railed against those idiotic “Loud pipes save lives” patches.
The flip side of the Enertia’s silent approach is that you can hear traffic behind you, and the dual-sport-ish seat height, upright riding position, and better-than-average mirrors give good visibility for defensive purposes; the brakes and tires are adequate at in-town speeds, and the bike’s geometry and good handlebar leverage make evasive action a possibility. The bike will not run when the headlight’s off, another defensive adaptation.
One unexpected aspect of the bike’s low noise signature is that it’s easy to find yourself riding faster than 25 or 30 mph speed limits. I almost wish it would give off a little sound as you pass through 30 mph. Accidentally going too fast is not a problem over 50 mph, because although the bike will go 60-something (indicated), performance trails off in a way that’s hard to describe; it’s altogether different than an ICE bike on the back side of its horsepower curve. The Enertia pulls relatively hard at lower speeds, and I found myself thinking I could squirt through a yellow light, then was surprised that twisting the throttle at higher engine revs failed to yield the expected torque.
In commuting/errand-running mode, I felt the Enertia’s single biggest flaw was the lack of luggage, storage space, or any obvious bungee points. (Soft luggage is mentioned on Brammo’s website, and there are four small allen bolts behind the seat that are probably attachment points for their proprietary bags.) As it is, there are no passenger footpegs, so the space behind the rider is wasted. The next gen should make side cases and/or a top box available. Harry, who’s a lawyer, was wearing a backpack when he arrived to drop his bike off. Lots of professionals couldn’t be bothered. Some kind of “tank” bag would be nice, too (though I admit it would almost inevitably cover the start button).
After using up half the charge riding like a nerd, I sought out some empty roads in an abandoned warehouse district and started riding like a jerk. Just kidding; since it was a friend’s personal bike, I didn’t ride the crap out of it, but I pushed it hard enough to determine that you can ride it for fun, not just function (with one caveat that I’ll get to in a moment). My only handling note is that when you enter a corner with the throttle off, the bike’s essentially freewheeling—there’s no regenerative/engine braking. I think that if you got used to trailing the rear brake slightly in mid-corner, it would stabilize the bike, but it would be better to have a regen setup that would both improve handling and pump a little power back into the battery. I won’t have any more chassis notes until I get one that belongs to the OEM and take it out on a go-kart track or some real technical, slow/twisty road.
At that point, I thought I’d learned about all I could in a day. I decided to take it out on the freeway and see how fast it would go, and how quickly the battery runs down at top speed.
You’ve already guessed where this is heading, haven’t you?
I got it to about 62 mph (on the speedo, not in my Speedo) and held that velocity for a few miles on a very hot day. Then I got an engine-temp warning that caused the computer to reduce power. Then I made the wrong freeway exit while circling back to my neighborhood. I found myself having to stay somewhat in the flow of traffic while watching the battery gauge count down. To. Zero. On an elevated section of Interstate 70.
With the gauge showing 0% charge and keeping an eye in my mirrors for fast-closing traffic, I looked for and did not find four-way flashers. I slowed down some more, and imagined stalling out completely 100 feet up on a two-mile-long bridge. I pictured some fellow biker stopping to say “I’ll come back with a jerry-can,” and me responding, “Make it a 700-foot extension cord.”
Desperate for an exit, I reached an off-ramp just as the motor cut out. I pushed to the top of the ramp, which was hard enough work to soak me in sweat. (Did I mention that at this point, I was in full protective gear, and it was over 100 degrees in 90+ percent humidity?)
I remembered Harry telling me that, while he’d never had to use it, the bike would apparently restart after a few minutes’ rest. Sure enough, it did and I was able to slowly ride the last mile home with the battery-charge gauge reading zero. (Luckily, it was downhill part of the way. There’s some unintentional regeneration inherent in the system. When an electric motor runs “backwards,” it’s a generator by definition.)
All in all, I drained the battery from an indicated 99% charge to failure in less than 30 miles—though in fairness, about half that distance was spent riding the bike quite hard, and for some of it, I was pinning the throttle on the interstate. While the bike’s freeway legal in Missouri, no one claims that’s an intended use.
Cost aside—for this paragraph, anyway—range remains the crux for this entire class of bikes. EV entrepreneurs can cite all the stats they want about average commute distances. Having to park up for several hours near an electrical outlet every thirty miles is a deal breaker for a lot of otherwise would-be green bikers. I admit I was asking for trouble pulling onto the freeway with 25% power remaining, but that could just as easily have been an honest mistake. I noted above that the bike’s handling and reasonable power make riding it for fun an attractive proposition, but on most of the scenic, twisty roads that make you think, Thank God I’m a motorcyclist, the outlets are further than thirty miles apart.
When Harry came by to pick up his bike, he made the case that using an EV requires a certain mindset; you don’t just aimlessly wander. The analogy he used was, “When I towed our vacation trailer with my Honda Pilot, I got about eight miles to the gallon. If we were traveling on some little two-lane road, I made sure I knew exactly where the gas stations were.” He rides his Enertia from his house to his office and back, which he can do on a single charge with a comfortable reserve left over.
This single front disc is
more than adequate in normal use, but when I was riding like a commuter on
crack, I noticed a trace of softness at the lever. • Mark Gardiner photo
The Enertia has a built-in charger and can only be charged at a Level 1 (regular household) power outlet. That’s convenient and makes sense now, because high-voltage recharging stations are few and far between. If you’re plugging your bike in at home, it doesn’t matter that it takes a few hours to recharge it. That charge time definitely does matter if you find yourself needing an unplanned top-up.
As an inner-city runabout in my neighborhood, where speeds occasionally reach 50 mph but average about 20, I compare the bike to my Vino, though I admit that it beats the Vino in top speed, “high”-speed handling, and energy cost.
The Vino beats the Enertia in range, cargo capacity, and slow-speed maneuverability. As for price, it’s no contest—the Vino’s about $2,200. Long-term reliability for the Eertia is to be determined. The Enertia’s batteries and motor are nearly maintenance-free, but its cycle parts aren’t. The total-life-cycle cost curves of the Vino and Enertia might not cross until you’d ridden one or the other for 50,000 miles—i.e., never.
In a suburban context, where it would be convenient to hop on the freeway for short hauls, Kawasaki’s $4,500 Ninja 250 has a better performance envelope and kills it on range, although the Enertia’s ease-of-use would score points for new riders.
On the other hand, the Enertia tops those plebian chariots when it comes to “cool factor,” and in this post-BP-blowout moment, its small carbon footprint allows you to feel smug about it, too.
Just how righteous should you feel? It’s not that easy to come up with a pat answer—unless you’re recharging your Enertia from your own private windmill or rooftop solar array, Jay Leno-style. As for the rest of us, a good working figure would be to assume that depending on when and where on the grid you charge up, you’ll “fill” the Enertia’s 3.1 KwH battery with electricity generated by burning coal and natural gas, hydroelectric and nuclear power, and a breath of wind and a glimmer of solar power. Your share of that coal- and gas-fired electricity will pump out three to four pounds of carbon dioxide. You can then use that power to travel twenty-five to forty miles.
By comparison, burning a gallon of gasoline pumps out about twenty pounds of CO2. I’ll spare you some arithmetic; for the purposes of this example if you got ten miles per KwH from your Enertia, your greenhouse-gas emissions per mile would be about half of those that come from my Yamaha Vino scooter or that baby Ninja, which both get about 70 mpg in easy riding.
Although the Enertia has no
tailpipe emissions (or tailpipe, for that matter), the electricity it uses is
largely generated by burning coal and natural gas. So is it really that much
cleaner? In a word, yes. Is it worth paying two or three times as much as you'd
pay for a gas-burning scoot that will do all the same chores? I'll leave the
last word to Kermit the Frog, who said, “It's not easy being green.” • Mark
Gardiner photo
What about daily operating costs? EV makers talk about “filling up” your battery at home for “pennies.” I think the average cost of a KwH of electricity is about 12 cents, so topping up the Enertia’s battery is actually more like pennies, a dime, and a quarter. This is back-of-the-envelope stuff—your own emissions may vary, depending on your diet—but these things are clear: 1) the current state-of-the-EV-art is, at least from a CO2 point of view, a big improvement over ICE vehicles, even high-mileage ones, though none of them are anything like no-carbon; 2) the per-mile operating costs are a lot lower, but; 3) you’re still going to pay a substantial (albeit voluntary) “green tax” in much higher initial costs—though real after-tax costs vary a lot by state.
This leaves me a little conflicted. I guess I might almost feel differently if I hadn’t actually run out of juice and been left pushing. Despite that misadventure, I enjoyed my day on the Enertia, and I can appreciate why these bikes have rabid fans, regardless of their flaws (the bikes’ flaws, not the fans’).
If someone asked, “What about those electric bikes? I want to show my support for the idea and to encourage more R&D, and I think the early examples are going to be collectible, so I want one in my garage. Which one should I get?” my answer would be, “This one.” For starters, unlike a lot of EV vaporware, it’s listed as “in stock” on the Brammo website, and it more or less does what they claim it will. If you asked about an investment opportunity, Brammo would be a slam dunk (although I think at the moment, all the EV motorcycle companies are privately held). Over the last couple of years, I’ve met and interviewed several e-CEOs, and Craig Bramscher left the impression that he had an actual business plan.
For me, the performance/price/environmental impact equation doesn’t allow an unequivocal conclusion that now’s the time, and this is the bike.
Yet, there’s always the Empulse.
Moto Moments Wallpaper: Rossi at Speed, Brno
Wednesday, August 18, 2010, 5:44:16 PM | admin
Celebrate an otherwise
unremarkable Wednesday with this stunning Andrew Northcott shot of Valentino
Rossi at Brno. Need we say more?
IMPORTANT: Click the thumbnail below (whichever is the appropriate size for your monitor) and use the expanded photo, not the thumbnail, as your wallpaper. Widescreen, full screen, and horizontal/vertical iPhone wallpapers—now higher resolution to accommodate iPhone 4s—available.
Click for Widescreen Wallpaper (16:10)
Click for Fullscreen Wallpaper (4:3)
Click for Fullscreen Wallpaper (5:4)
Click for Horizontal iPhone/Mobile Wallpaper
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Between the Races: Guy Coulon
Wednesday, August 18, 2010, 5:18:36 PM | Jesse Cecil
Guy Coulon is one of the most enduring members of the Grand Prix paddock. He’s been intimately involved with many past and current GP innovations (including the ELF single-sided swingarm of the late-‘80s), currently serves as Colin Edwards’ crew chief and lead technician for the Monster Yamaha Tech3 MotoGP and Moto2 teams, and is the driving force behind the Mistral 610 Moto2 bike.
Guy Coulon • Courtesy Tech
3
Please tell us a little about your
background before you came to work for Tech 3.
Before Tech 3 I was working for Honda Racing in 250 GP, Endurance World
Championship, and Paris-Dakar Rally for about six to eight years.
This season, it seems that Colin’s had
some difficulties.
Colin has some difficulties this season, or somewhat worse result than last
year, because last year he did a very good season, with very good results, so
of course is really difficult to do the same thing two years in a row. Also,
this year we are mainly using last year’s bike, and this year the lap time is
similar or better than last year, but a lot of other bikes have improved and we
have some more bikes and riders in front of us.
What are your feelings on the current
MotoGP regulations, in regards to engine capacity, number of engines for the
season, electronic aids, etc.
MotoGP regulations are not my business. Mainly I have to use the regulations to
try and get the best bike within those regulations. Regulations are made by
Japanese manufacturers and Ducati—all the biggest manufacturers—and even if I
have some idea about the regulations, this is not important. The most important
thing is to try and get the best bike with the regulations that we have.
As an engineer, how do you feel about
MotoGP’s return to a 1000cc format?
This is similar to the last question. The next regulations is a bit
complicated, because still we can use 800cc engines, plus two different kinds
of 1000cc engines, so I believe the 1000cc engines are more interesting because
it is a more powerful bike, and maybe the best rider can have some advantage.
From what I understand, you’ve been
spearheading the development of Tech 3’s Moto2 effort.
In our team we decided to get entry into the new Moto2 class, and to make our
own bike by ourselves. So this is a lot different than trying to use a bike from
a different maker, because at the same time as we are using the bike in the
races, we need to improve the bike through development, and we also need to
produce parts and everything, so of course it is a big effort, and a lot of
work for the whole Moto2 team.
Colin Edwards • Photo by
Andrew Northcott
So, of course all Moto2 bikes use the same engine, but I believe this year we have about fifteen different chassis makers with many different kind of chassis: aluminum, steel, machined aluminum, pressed aluminum—many different kinds. So after one or two seasons, I believe that we will have less makers and we can understand which way was the best. But now it is very interesting because we can see many different directions, and all these kinds of directions are interesting on some points.
How do you feel about the death of the
two-stroke grand prix motorcycle?
Well you know, when I started working in GP in the beginning of the ‘70s it was
like the death of the four-stroke at that time, then two-stroke came back again
during the last thirty years. Now the four-stroke comes back for a different
reason. This is also similar to the question about regulations. This is a new regulation,
and on our side we have to try and do our best with this regulation, and for
our job, two-stroke or four-stroke is very similar.
There’s been talk of a Moto3 class, one
that might utilize 250cc single-cylinder engines in GP chassis, and Poncharal
has expressed interest in it. Do you think 250cc singles are an appropriate
replacement for 125cc two-strokes?
I don’t have much information about the Moto3 class because it is very, very
new and still they are talking about the engine, and until now we don’t know
exactly what is going to happen with this Moto3 class. But I think that if the
manufacturers are able to make these 250cc single-cylinder, four-stroke engines
with a competitive price and good durability, then this is the right solution.
Rockwall Yamaha Rider JD Beach Clinches AMA Pro SuperSport East Title
Wednesday, August 18, 2010, 4:07:42 PM | admin
Alton, VA (Aug 17, 2010) — Rockwall Performance Yamaha’s J.D. Beach put an exclamation point on what’s been a truly spectacular season for the emerging star at Virginia International Raceway, registering another perfect weekend to lock up the AMA Pro SuperSport East Region crown a weekend early.
Beach has proven to be nearly unstoppable this season and the VIR weekend wasn’t any different. The teenager again put his Yamaha R6 sponsored by Top 1 Oil and Red Bull on the pole with a blistering lap of 1:29.143 and went on to score two more dominating triumphs as he left the rest of the field in his wake.
With teammate Cameron Beaubier out this weekend after suffering an injury in a motocross-related training accident, Beach was in position to lock up the title prior to the East finale at New Jersey Motorsports Park. Focused and fast, J.D. did just that with yet another weekend sweep.
Saturday’s contest saw him run away with a lopsided 13.810-second margin of victory. Sunday’s affair was a bit closer, as Beach scrapped with his rivals for a handful of laps before surging into the lead and building up a healthy advantage, ultimately cruising home with 5.131 seconds to spare.
Beach’s stunning form has seen him collect seven East Region SuperSport victories in his last eight attempts.
“On Saturday, my plan was the same as Mid-Ohio — just get a good start, put my head down and put in some good laps,” the newly-crowned champ explained. “I did some good lap times and saw on my pit board that the gap just kept going up. I just kept on trying to put in some good laps. Once I knew I had a pretty good lead, I just did what I do and ripped some big skids and just had fun. This is what I love to do so it wasn’t hard to focus at all.
“It was a little bit tougher on Sunday. Everyone was riding a little harder and everyone was going for it more. I just tried to stay consistent because I knew what I had to do to wrap up the championship. I stayed safe, picked off some people, got in front, and then put in some good laps to get a cushion.”
Reflecting on his successful championship campaign, J.D. admitted, “I really didn’t think I was going to win the championship when the season started. I was riding well at the end of the season last year but I knew the rest of the guys would be stepping it up this season. And I was excited for Cameron because I helped get him his ride with the team. But after I got him the ride I realized that he was probably going to be fast, so I kind of made a mistake there,” laughed Beach. “But I did what I knew how to do and rode consistent and rode to the best of my ability. Not too crazy, but crazy enough to win, and it just ended up this way. I can’t say enough about the team, our sponsors and partners, and everyone that’s helped this year. It’s been fantastic.”
Manx Grand Prix Festival Launches New Website
Wednesday, August 18, 2010, 11:10:11 AM | admin
The Department of Economic
Development has been working with Isle of Man based Duke Marketing to develop
an official website for the newly branded ‘Manx Grand Prix Festival’, which
runs from 21st August to 5th September 2010.
The 2010 MGP Festival brings together four of the biggest two-wheel events in the Isle of Man’s sporting calendar: the Manx Grand Prix Races, which sees classic and modern racing machines competing around the 37.73-mile TT Mountain Course; the Two Day Trial; the Manx Classic Trial and the Vintage Motor Cycle Club’s Festival of Jurby, Vintage Parade and Rally. The site – with the url mgpfestival.com – will go live on Friday 13th August.
The site will carry latest news from each of the events as well as multimedia content, spectator guides, entertainment listings, photo galleries, competitor database and results archive. It will also feature comprehensive information on how to book travel and accommodation packages through official travel partner Regency Travel. Each of the ‘Manx Grand Prix Festival’ event organisers will also have their own dedicated areas to promote their events and carry competitor information.
For the first time, fans around the world will be able to follow the Manx Grand Prix via the MGP Live! Service, which will deliver live commentary from local radio station Manx Radio and live timing on the internet throughout the fortnight-long event. The service is free and does not require registration.
MGP Live! uses the same tried and tested technology as TT Live!, which has been running annually since 2007. MGP Live! will allow fans to see sector times and speeds from data collection points around the course as soon as the timing beams are broken, so they can follow the practice and race action as it happens. There will also be regular Facebook and Twitter updates from events around the Island.
The site is part of the Department of Economic Development’s strategy to generate additional visitors to the Island during the Manx Grand Prix Festival Fortnight. It is also a key element of the commercial programme to attract sponsorship to offset the cost of running the event.
The Department has negotiated a number of commercial partners for this year’s event including Motorsport Merchandise, Suzuki GB and Mylchreest Motors. Media Group Morton’s, publishers of Classic Racer, Classic Dirt Bike, The Classic Motorcycle and Classic Bike Guide, are the official media partner and will support the festival editorially and the event also receives a financial contribution from the Manx Grand Prix Supporters Club.
Geoff Corkish MBE, MHK, the Political Member for Isle of Man Tourism, commented:
“Bringing together four enjoyable, strong events into one Festival of motorcycle sport will give visitors even more to experience. Having a fully functional website will really help us to promote the event and to build the worldwide audience for the Manx Grand Prix Festival. It will also hopefully be a great resource for encouraging potential visitors to come to the Island and help us to drive incremental revenue from corporate partners.”
The website has been designed and built by Manx firm Duke, the company behind the Official Website of the Isle of Man TT Races, which attracted almost 1 million visits during the 2010 TT.
Duke Managing Director Peter Duke said:
“We are delighted to have extended our remit with the Department to put together mgpfestival.com, the official online presence of what I believe is one of the most exciting developments in the Manx motorsport scene for several years.”
“Where else in the world can you see national-standard trials competition, some of the fastest and most spectacular road racing and a complete historical cross-section of motorcycling road and competition machinery, all for free, over a 14-day period?”
“I believe www.mgpfestival.com captures not only the excitement but also celebrates the unique heritage of each of these events, as well providing a one-stop information shop for everything you need to know about the festival.”
M1GP, Motoyard Join Forces
Wednesday, August 18, 2010, 10:41:13 AM | admin
Being the “new kid on the
block” sometimes means a fresh approach, new energy and ideas. This has proven
to be the case with both M1GP Mini Road Racing Association and MOTOYARD, a
premier track-day provider. Each caters to their riders and each are quickly
building reputations as industry leaders by providing “out-of-the-box”
thinking, great customer service and are both run by people with great passion
for motorcycling.
M1GP (M1-Grand Prix) – Mini Road Racing Association Est. in 2009; the mini road racing association following CMRRA left off after 16 years (with the blessing of CMRRA and its riders); mini-class (motorcycles ranging from 50cc 2 stroke to 150cc 4 stroke in sportbike trim and up to 549cc Supermoto. It’s racing for KIDS, WOMEN & MEN with practice days and racing. Great for building skill for all levels or riders/racers with minimal costs and risk. A proven path to world class-top level racing for those pursuing racing as a career or for street riders who wish to become more proficient, confident and better riders overall.
Young Lee, Race Director/Promoter of M1GP:
“M1GP is about mini road racing for adults and kids. Motoyard provides our riders big-track experience for their street & race bikes for even more safe riding and experience on the track. We’re very happy to be working with MOTOYARD since we’ve been hearing a lot of positive feedback some of our racers as well as other folks we’ve run into from Laguna Seca all the way to San Diego. People who have experienced Motoyard’s track-days talk about how great of an experience they had and how well the track-day was run.
In turn, MOTOYARD customers can benefit from riding or racing smaller bikes, especially for those who take their experience with Motoyard’s New Racer’s school and apply it directly and immediately with M1GP’s racing program with very little risk and expense (compared to big bikes). Experience on the small bikes will make big-bike track-day riders much more proficient and comfortable on the big tracks, almost guaranteed. We look forward having both Motoyard and M1GP riders getting the best of both worlds and becoming safe, proficient and well rounded riders and racers.”
_______________
MOTOYARD – Online motorcycle shop and track-day provider
(Since 2009).
Motoyard was built by motorcycle riders and licensed racers to offer guidance,
coaching and supervision for riders of all skill levels.
Motoyard track-days have raised the bar in track-day companies and has set
itself apart from the others with customer service, perks such as fresh fruits,
snacks and drinks as a standard part of the Motoyard experience. Motoyard is an
excellent value and has a very high customer return rate.
Motoyard was the first ever to do the Double Track Day (allowing their riders do both the Big track and Streets on the same day). Also the first to do the Track-Night (Track-Day with lights). Sold out in 2 days with over 75 people on the waiting list. Their next Track Night is Aug. 21st at Streets of Willow.
Greg Nulman, Owner of Motoyard.com:
“Motoyard is made up of people who just love to ride motorcycles, whether it’s racing or not. Big bikes or small. We’re excited about working with M1GP because young riders, especially, need a place to start. They can’t start with us, but we can provide them the safest and best place to grow into when they’re ready. We’ve also run into many of our customers who are racing M1GP and are having a blast!” said Greg Nulman, Owner of Motoyard.com
“The whole Motoyard crew has been to M1GP races and we’re impressed with the level of riding and how well their association is run and I want to support this valuable program. One of my guys has his son racing in this series and he loves it and another one of my guys used to race minis and says he had the most fun on the smaller bikes. In fact, we’re putting together a Motoryard race team for the M1GP24 hour endurance race. It’ll be a good team-building experience for Motoyard. I know it’ll be a fun and unforgettable experience.”
“People who come to Motoyard Track-days and nights and race with M1GP will have the best experiences they can have on two wheels.”
Here’s how Motoyard & M1GP’s relationship will benefit riders:
Motoyard customers at M1GP:
Besides Willow Springs Motorcycle Club, graduates from Motoyard’s New Racer’s
school will be certified to race at M1GP, and get $20 off of 1st race
registration (one time only). $20 off of an M1GP rental bike (one time only)
Additionally recent (2010) Motoyard track-day customers will get $10 discount
M1GP practice days at Willow Springs.
M1GP Annual Members at Motoyard:
$40 off of any Motoyard Track-day or night.
$20 off of Motoyard’s New Racer’s School
Strong Lineup for Manx Grand Prix
Wednesday, August 18, 2010, 10:38:14 AM | admin
Entries have closed for the
2010 Manx Grand Prix and the mountwatering line-up has confirmed the event as
the world’s premier Classic Road Race. Practices are scheduled from Saturday
21st August with race week from Monday 30th August to Friday 3rd September.
A strong entry has been assembled across all classes, notably for the Senior, Junior and Lightweight Classic races with a host of former winners returning. The decision in 2009 to include races for Post Classic machines has been vindicated with a significant rise in both quality and quantity in 2010.
The Senior Post Classic class has, arguably, the strongest entry of any race at this year’s MGP with five Suzuki XR69 997cc machines, three of which will be in the hands of TT winners Ryan Farquhar and Michael Dunlop and fans favourite Guy Martin. Farquhar took the inaugural race last year in difficult conditions and will line-up as one of the pre-race favourites whilst Martin is expected to challenge if he has recovered from his TT injuries.
Meanwhile, Dunlop’s participation is perhaps the most eagerly anticipated and, given his performances at TT2010 he could well come out on top in a race that should see the first 110mph+ laps achieved. Mark Buckley and Maria Costello line up on the other XR69s whilst other notable riders include Olie Linsdell on an FZ750 Yamaha, TT Rider Liaison Officer John Barton (749cc GSXR Suzuki), Davy Morgan (1045cc Kawasaki), Glyn Jones (1000cc VF Honda) and Mick Godfrey (1000cc GSXR Suzuki).
Meanwhile, in the Junior Post Classic class, last year’s victor Brian Mateer returns on his 249cc TZ Yamaha to try and make it a double although it won’t be easy for the Northern Irishman with Roy Richardson likely to challenge closely on a similar machine. Others mounted on 250cc Yamahas are Manx GP regular Phil McGurk, Barry Davidson, Stuart Garton, Ewan Hamilton and Roger Hurst. Peter Symes lines up on the solitary RS250cc Honda in the race. Popular Manx resident Chris Palmer will also be expected to feature at the front of the field.
There’s similar strength in depth in the Senior Classic where Farquhar will again line up as favourite on the 500cc Paton that he took to lap and race records in 2009. The two men likely to push him hardest will be similarly mounted Linsdell and Alan Oversby who goes on the exotic 500cc MV Agusta. These three have the ability to make it a thrilling race at the head of the field.
The fourth man likely to be pushing for the win will be Roy Richardson on the Martin Bullock Racing Aermacchi Ala D’Oro. Wattie Brown (498cc Manx Norton), Steve Linsdell (499cc Seeley Enfield), Paul Coward (492cc Nourish Weslake) and Mark Parrett (500cc G50 Matchless) will lead the British machine charge.
Tony Russell, former 125cc British Championship regular Fernando Mendes, Mark Herbertson, Ken Davis, Keith Dixon and Bob Owen also go in this one with overseas entries coming from Jan Koning (Holland), Osmo Partti (Finland) and David Webber (Germany). Meanwhile, seven riders will line up in the 750cc class with the race win likely to be between David Madsen-Mygdal, Chris McGahan and Davy Morgan.
Farquhar (Drixton Honda) and Oversby (MV Agusta) should also be pushing each other hard in Wednesday’s Junior Classic but they’ll also have to contend with, amongst others, Chris Palmer (AJS), Richardson (Aermacchi), Morgan (Honda) and Madsen-Mygdal (Honda). Other riders to watch include Mendes, Garton, Davis, Dixon, Nigel Moore and Doug Snow. In the concurrently run Lightweight class, Ewan Hamilton, Barry Davidson, David Smith, Peter Symes, Roger Hurst, Tom Jackson and Peter Wakefield should be the main contenders.
As well as the prestigious Classic races, the Manx Grand Prix also features modern machines and strong fields have been assembled, particularly for the Senior and Junior races where 81 and 94 entries respectively have been received. It’s a similar line up in each but a significant number of 750s will also feature in the Senior.
With last year’s victors Michael Russell and Stephen McIlvenna having moved on the TT, this year’s races are wide open but there’s a host of leading names likely to be fighting it out at the head of the field in both races. Outright lap record holder Alan Jackson jnr is back for another attempt on the WA Corless Honda whilst another riding tackling the Mountain Course after returning from injury is Ryan McCay, the PRF Racing rider having crashed out of last year’s Senior while leading.
Southern Ireland riders David Lumsden and Michael Sweeney are getting quicker and quicker around the 37.73-mile course so can be expected to be at the forefront of the action once more whilst the consistent Phil McGurk, Jules Croft, Wayne Kirwan, Andrew Brady and Ivan Lintin should not be ruled out. With Ryan Kneen and Sean Murphy having opted out of the event, local hopes rest with Simon Fulton and Andy Cowin, the duo both 600cc Yamaha mounted. Stephen McKnight, Glyn Jones, Peter Symes and Mike Minns are also expected to be challenging hard come race day. Double TT2010 Sidecar passenger Dan Sayle is a notable entry in the Junior and Lightweight Races and will be going for his third consecutive win while Chris McGahan is also a local contender for honours in the Senior, Junior and Post Classic Races.
The MGP still plays host to two-strokes and although there are only 15 machines entered for the Lightweight 250cc, the quality is good with the highest profile entry Ballymoney rider William Dunlop. He is the clear favourite for the race but fellow countrymen Davy Morgan and Nigel Moore will also be in contention as will last year’s runner-up Neil Kent and 250cc regulars Roy Richardson, Phil Harvey, Tom Snow and Stuart Garton.
Run in conjunction with the 250s, the Ultra Lightweight race should see a fascinating contest between the 400cc and 650cc machines although the smaller capacity machines have held sway in recent years. However, many of the main contenders have gone for either a Suzuki SV650 or Kawasaki ER6 this year including Jackson, Sweeney, Kirwan, Lintin, McGurk, Cowin, Minns, Rab Davie and former TT star David Bell. The best of the 400cc runners should be Johnson and Joe Phillips whilst a handful of 125cc machines are also entered.
Last, but by no means least, the Newcomers races will again take place with a number of riders tackling the most famous road race circuit in the world for the first time. Picking the favourites is no easy task as Mountain Course form is an unknown quantity but 22-year old Douglas rider Tim Venables is expected to be a front runner in the ‘A’ class having previously impressed at the Southern 100. Another local, Andy Fenton, also rode well at Billown so is worth watching whilst the event has also attracted international entries from Tommaso Totti, the 2009 Runner up in the Italian under 21 600 Championship and Kamil Holan who won the Czech Republic Superbike Cup. Other International newcomers from France, Austria, Norway, Germany and Denmark are also confirmed to take part.
Leno Grand Marshall for Red Bull Indy GP
Wednesday, August 18, 2010, 10:19:21 AM | admin
INDIANAPOLIS, Wednesday,
Aug. 18, 2010 – Yamaha and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway are pleased to bring
legendary comedian and late-night television host Jay Leno to serve as grand
marshal of the Red Bull Indianapolis GP motorcycle race.
Leno, an avid motorsports enthusiast and collector of motorcycles and cars, will meet with MotoGP teams and riders on Race Day, Sunday, Aug. 29 at IMS and also present a trophy to a podium finisher.
“The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is one of the greatest spectator tracks in the world,” Leno said. “Thankfully my R1 will stay in the Big Dog Garage as I plan to watch and cheer on our three Americans right from the pits.”
Leno’s role as grand marshal extends his involvement with both the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and MotoGP.
In 1999, Leno drove the Chevrolet Monte Carlo Pace Car that led the field of 33 drivers to the start of the Indianapolis 500. In July, Leno opened his incredible collection of cars and motorcycles at Jay Leno’s Garage in Southern California to current MotoGP riders and legends in a special event presented by Yamaha before the Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, Calif.
***
IMS tickets: Tickets for the 2010 Red Bull Indianapolis GP are on sale now. A new structure offers additional value and flexibility to fans attending the annual MotoGP event.
Among the highlights of the new ticket structure are lower prices and single-day reserved and general admission tickets for Race Day, Sunday, Aug. 29. Children 12 and under will be admitted free any day of the event if accompanied by an adult holding a general admission ticket.
Fans can order tickets online at www.imstix.com, call the IMS ticket office at (317) 492-6700, or (800) 822-INDY outside the Indianapolis area or visit the ticket office at the IMS Administration Building at the corner of Georgetown Road and 16th Street. Online orders can be made at any time. Hours for phone orders and the ticket office are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (ET) Monday-Friday.
General admission tickets provide access to the grounds, viewing mounds along the infield section of the circuit and selected grandstands, which provide excellent angles to see the greatest riders in the world.
Fans can now print their tickets – three-day reserved seat and Race Day-only general admission and reserved seat tickets – with their printer after ordering tickets online at www.imstix.com. Tickets for groups of 20 or more also are on sale. Contact the IMS Group Sales Department at (866) 221-8775 for more information.
ThatsRacin.com: Top Stories
Will Power wins, stretches lead in IndyCar standings
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 8:12:00 PM
SONOMA, Calif. – Will Power has won at the track he had to be airlifted from a year ago, padding his IndyCar Series lead with a dominating run Sunday at Infineon Raceway.
NASCAR Rewind: Still the one – by a landslide
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 8:09:00 PM
Jim Utter: Bristol's night race once again had the most electric atmosphere of the season, the best driver introductions and some of the best racing.
Busch caps a winning week
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 5:56:00 PM
With his dominating win in the Irwin Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway, Busch ensured his mark in NASCAR history.
Power makes it 8 poles
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 12:53:00 PM
Thinking he was a lock to move on in qualifying, Will Power drove into the pits, ready to park his car for the next session.
Vickers discloses surgery, disorder
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 12:52:00 PM
BRISTOL, Tenn. – Brian Vickers has made tough decisions and taken some difficult steps in hopes of returning to racing in 2011.
Bowyer, team battle back, build some momentum
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 12:16:00 AM
With two races left before the field is set, Cllint Bowyer has a 100-point lead over 13th-place Jamie McMurray.
NASCAR puts track profits ahead of teams with cuts
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 12:07:00 AM
BRISTOL, Tenn. – NASCAR will cut the purses for the Nationwide Series by 20 percent next season.
Kyle Busch takes a broom to Bristol
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 12:05:00 AM
BRISTOL, Tenn. – Kyle Busch made NASCAR history. Not popular history, but history nonetheless.
Updated and unofficial driver standings
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 11:33:00 PM
Updated and unofficial NASCAR Sprint Cup driver standings after the Bristol Motor Speedway event on Aug. 21, 2010:
Busch makes it 2 for 2
Friday, August 20, 2010, 10:28:00 PM
BRISTOL, Tenn. – Kyle Busch wasn’t making friends either way Friday night.
Hotel costs, hard times keep NASCAR fans away
Friday, August 20, 2010, 9:05:00 PM
Once the toughest ticket in NASCAR, Bristol is now just like every other track: struggling to attract fans in a tough economy.
NASCAR Raceday: Pair scrapping for the 12th spot
Friday, August 20, 2010, 8:58:00 PM
Jim Utter: Clint Bowyer and Mark Martin have been trading places for the 12th and final spot in the Chase.
Franchitti's focus on IndyCar leader
Friday, August 20, 2010, 7:52:00 PM
SONOMA, Calif. – Being called a sport's elder statesman is a sign of respect for your accomplishments, yet with the undertone that you're no longer relevant on the playing field.
NASCAR@Bristol: Still waiting for a favorite?
Friday, August 20, 2010, 7:18:00 PM
BRISTOL, Tenn. – Jimmie Johnson is the favorite to win a fifth consecutive Sprint Cup Series championship.
Kids do the darndest things
Friday, August 20, 2010, 6:37:00 PM
Jeff Gordon’s three-year-old daughter, Ella, helped design the paint scheme her dad will run on his No. 24 Chevrolet in the Sept. 5 Sprint Cup Series race at Atlanta.
Reutimann ill, has Almirola standing by at Bristol
Friday, August 20, 2010, 6:16:00 PM
BRISTOL, Tenn. – David Reutimann was expected to miss Friday's Sprint Cup practice sessions at Bristol Motor Speedway, suffering "flulike symptoms.
Edwards sets two-series schedule in 2011
Friday, August 20, 2010, 5:31:00 PM
BRISTOL, Tenn. – Carl Edwards says he has committed to racing the full Nationwide Series schedule next season.
Patrick expected back in NASCAR
Friday, August 20, 2010, 4:34:00 PM
BRISTOL, Tenn. – JR Motorsports says it expects to field a Nationwide Series car again next season for Danica Patrick.
Power pads series lead with win at Sonoma (PA SportsTicker)
Today, August 23, 2010, 1 hour ago
By JOHN MARSHALL AP Sports Writer
Wheldon's day ends before it begins (PA SportsTicker)
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 9:55:59 PM
By JOHN MARSHALL AP Sports Writer
Busch completes record sweep at Bristol (AP)
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 6:09:24 PM
Kyle Busch was booed unmercifully by the crowd at every turn, and called a name over the public address system by Brad Keselowski.
Loeb wins Rally Germany (AP)
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 8:24:28 AM
Sebastien Loeb of France won his record eighth straight Rally Germany on Sunday to lead a sweep of the top three places for Citroen cars. Loeb led the rally from the start to finish and completed the 19 stages 51.3 seconds ahead of Spanish driver Dani Sordo. Citroen junior team driver Sebastien Ogier of France was third, 1 minute, 22 seconds behind, to complete Citroen's first sweep at the...
Jeers, insults can't slow down Busch (Yahoo! Sports)
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 2:04:00 AM
If you thought Kyle Busch would be fazed by the boos or Brad Keselowski's fightin' words, guess again.
Retro Racing: Busch gets the last laugh with sweep at Bristol (NASCAR.com)
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 1:13:51 AM
Retro Racing: Busch gets the last laugh with sweep at Bristol
Busch sweeps all 3 Bristol races (AP)
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 12:14:33 AM
As Kyle Busch crossed the finish line for a three-race sweep, his crew quickly credited the driver for his role in the record-setting moment.
Lap-by-Lap: Bristol (NASCAR.com)
Yesterday, August 22, 2010, 12:06:26 AM
Lap-by-Lap: Bristol
NASCAR reducing Nationwide purses 20 percent (AP)
Saturday, August 21, 2010, 9:39:31 PM
NASCAR will cut the purses for the Nationwide Series by 20 percent next season, a move designed to make hosting the second-tier series a more profitable proposition for race tracks.
Busch makes it 2 for 2 at Bristol (PA SportsTicker)
Friday, August 20, 2010, 10:48:56 PM
By JENNA FRYER AP Auto Racing Writer
Jimmie Johnson wins pole for Bristol night race (AP)
Friday, August 20, 2010, 8:07:36 PM
Four-time defending NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson secured pole position Friday at Bristol Motor Speedway, where he will attempt Saturday to recap his win there in March.
Officials vow tighter scrutiny of off-road racing (AP)
Friday, August 20, 2010, 7:54:22 PM
Federal officials promised tighter scrutiny of off-road racing Friday, expanding a review of the sport run on public lands nationwide even as tricked-out trucks raced through the Nevada desert less than a week after a deadly accident in California. More than 200 teams of off-road enthusiasts also riding motorcycles, dune buggies and four-wheel all-terrain vehicles sped across 530 miles of Nevada...
Franchitti set to defend title at Sonoma (PA SportsTicker)
Friday, August 20, 2010, 7:21:24 PM
By JOHN MARSHALL AP Sports Writer
Reutimann returns from food poisoning at Bristol (AP)
Friday, August 20, 2010, 7:15:30 PM
David Reutimann missed Friday's first practice at Bristol Motor Speedway because of illness, but recovered in time to qualify his Toyota.
Dillon Motor Speedway
Dillon Motor Speedway UARA-Stars Late Model Stock Cars will be on tour this weekend at DMS. Legend Cars, 4 Cylinder and a $500 to Win Street Stock race will also be racing. Come on out to the race track this weekend. Race you There!!!
Website Link: Dillon Motor Speedway
Ó SCMSRN.com/Paul J Miller 3rd, 2000-2010