Category: Other Series Racing

Other series racing

Chad Hackenbracht is Making a Name for Himself On and Off the Track

[media-credit name=”Photo Credit CGH Motorsports” align=”alignright” width=”246″][/media-credit]In spite of his difficult to pronounce moniker, up and coming 20 year old racer Chad Hackenbracht has been making a name for himself on and off the track.

Hackenbracht definitely made a name for himself on the track at Talladega by leading laps at the end of the race and pushing Brandon McReynolds, son of former crew chief and FOX broadcaster Larry McReynolds, to his first ARCA win.

The driver of the No. 58 Kindify Chevrolet Impala led 38 laps and was leading when the white flag flew. Unfortunately, Hackenbracht was a sitting duck at the front of the field and had to settle for a third place finish in the International Motorsports Hall of Fame 250 when all was said and done.

This was Hackenbracht’s fifth career top five finish and his best finish ever at a superspeedway.

“I knew we had a good chance at winning for sure,” Hackenbracht said. “But you don’t want to be in the lead at a superspeedway.”

“You’re a sitting duck with no friends at all,” Hackenbracht continued. “So, they got me on that last restart. I tried to back up to them but they wound up getting around me.”

While rivals on the track, Hackenbracht and McReynolds have been good friends off the track. And they planned on working together in the draft during their superspeedway competitions.

“Brandon and I talked about pushing each other since the tandem racing began at Daytona,” Hackenbracht said. “Ever since then, we tried to work together but never got the opportunity until the Talladega race.”

So, how has McReynolds paid Hackenbracht back for that winning push, which has brought great attention to both racers’ names, at Talladega?

“He hasn’t given me anything,” Hackenbracht said with a laugh. “He called me after the race and thanked me.”

“He said we could go get some lunch or dinner or hang out,” Hackenbracht continued. “He has thanked me a lot and really that’s all you can ask for.”

“Obviously with Brandon being Larry Mac’s son and me pushing him to the lead, we’ve both gotten a lot of exposure,” Hackenbracht said. “So, when they talk him, they’re also talking about me.”

“We’re getting some good press out of it for sure and hopefully making a name in the garage area.”

Hackenbracht certainly had mixed emotions after the ARCA race, even with his third place finish. Among those emotions were elation for his friend, sadness that he was not in Victory Lane, and a little bit of anger all at the same time.

“Right after the race, I was actually kind of upset because the 16 came up and damaged our car,” Hackenbracht said. “He decided to come up and block us after we were right next to him.”

“Third is good because it helps us go after the championship,” Hackenbracht, who is third in the ARCA point standings, continued. “You always want to be in Victory Lane but it will happen when it’s supposed to happen.”

Hackenbracht has also been making a name for himself off the track as well. The young driver was chosen to do the Hoosier tire test at several newly paved tracks, as well as fulfilling a great deal of sponsor and charitable appearances.

“We did the Hoosier tire test,” Hackenbracht said. “We were the only team that went up and tested the tires on the new surface.”

“We also did that a few weeks ago in Michigan, as well as at Pocono,” Hackenbracht continued. “Michigan was very similar to the old track as far as conditions.”

“It had a lot of grip and is a lot faster,” Hackenbracht said. “We were actually only two tenths off of the Cup speeds in the ARCA cars.”

“Pocono also looks great,” Hackenbracht continued. “I can’t complain about that at all. It’s smooth and fast too.”

Hackenbracht has become a bit of a rock star off the track as well, between all of his sponsor visits and charities.

“Before Talladega, we went to Fort Bragg and did a show car appearance,” Hackenbracht said. “I had never once been on a base before and I didn’t realize it was like a whole other town.”

“It was great to meet the troops and spend time with them.”

“That Thursday of Talladega, we went to Fort Rucker and it was so nice to meet people and get my name out there,” Hackenbracht continued. “Another thing that I’ve started to do is with the RAD (Race Against Drugs) program. They’re going to have a go kart thing where kids get to race against us ARCA racers.”

“At ‘Dega, as soon as I got out of the car after finishing the race, I rushed everybody out and went to the hauler, changed my clothes and went outside the track to the International Motorsports Hall of Fame to sign autographs for different kids with the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind,” Hackenbracht said. “That was fun to speak with a bunch of different kids.”

“It was hectic getting right out of the car but it was really fun.”

While Hackenbracht likes to go fast and finish well on the track, making a name for himself and causes he cares about off the track is something that is vitally important to the young driver.

“That’s one thing I really like to do is the off-track stuff, whether it’s autographs or just meeting people,” Hackenbracht said. “I love meeting new people and you never know where there connections will lead.”

Although it is early in the season, Hackenbracht has been enjoying making a name for himself on and off the track. And he just knows that his team will be the next ones in Victory Lane.

“We’re getting closer to finally closing the deal on the win,” Hackenbracht said. “It’s been a long time coming.”

“We’ve had dominant performances but bad luck or other problems have gotten in the way of the win,” Hackenbracht continued. “It’s definitely been a good season so far.”

“Hopefully we will continue to go in the right direction.”

May 14, 2012
Action Sports Star Pastrana Confirmed for Pioneer Hi-Bred 250

[media-credit name=”Iowa Speedway” align=”alignright” width=”222″][/media-credit]11 Time X Games Gold Medalist Will Do Double-Duty

NEWTON, IA – May 14, 2012 – Travis Pastrana, the action sports star turned NASCAR driver, is now confirmed for both the Graham Tire 150 NASCAR K&N Pro Series race and the Pioneer Hi-Bred 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race.

Pastrana, who made his Nationwide Series debut at Richmond International Raceway, will be making his third career NASCAR Nationwide Series Sunday, May 20 at 1:00 p.m.

“I am thrilled to add Iowa to my NASCAR Nationwide Series schedule. I have been pretty pleased with my performance in my first two Nationwide races and I just hope to continue to improve with each start. Our goal this year was to add as many Nationwide races to my schedule as possible and with the help of Robby Benton and my sponsors we were able to add Iowa this weekend,” said Pastrana.

Iowa Speedway CEO, Doug Fritz, expressed how excited Iowa Speedway is to have someone like Pastrana running in both races.

“Travis has a very dedicated following and we are very ecstatic to have him running both race this upcoming weekend,” said Fritz. “We have had several inquires about him running in the Pioneer Hi-Bred 250, and not just the Graham Tire 150; today, we are excited to confirm that he will be racing in both events.”

Pastrana joins an already star-studded entry list for the Pioneer Hi-Bred 250, including drivers Ricky Stenhouse Jr, Danica Patrick, 2004 NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion Kurt Busch, Sam Hornish Jr., Elliott Sadler, and Michael Annett. The 2012 Iowa Speedway season gets under way Saturday night at 7:00 p.m. with the Graham Tire 150 NASCAR K&N Pro Series race.

Season, event weekend, and single race ticket packages are on sale; reserve your tickets today by calling 1-866-RUSTY-GO or visit www.iowaspeedway.com.

About Iowa Speedway

Iowa Speedway is a state-of-the-art 7/8 mile asphalt paved tri-oval race track and motorsports facility located just 30 miles east of Des Moines at I-80 Exit 168 in Newton, Iowa. The track is owned and operated by U.S. Motorsport Corporation and designed by former NASCAR Champion Rusty Wallace, now an anchor and analyst for ABC-TV/ESPN. Iowa Speedway is designed for year-round use and includes 30,000 permanent grandstand seats. Call 1-866-RUSTY-GO, visit www.iowaspeedway.com, “like” us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter at @IowaSpeedway to learn more.

May 14, 2012
Rising NASCAR Star Coulter Performing Double Duty, Entering ARCA Race at Toledo

[media-credit name=”ARCA Racing Network” align=”alignright” width=”300″][/media-credit](TOLEDO, Ohio) – Sunday’s Menards 200 presented by Federated Car Care at Toledo Speedway will feature one of NASCAR’s top rising young drivers in a special ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards appearance.

Joey Coulter, last year’s NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Rookie of the Year, will enter Sunday’s race in the No. 61 Chevrolet for Coulter Motorsports. The car will feature sponsorship from Rip It Energy Fuel and Ohio-based Paramount Health Care and Cedar Point.

Coulter’s ARCA entry is planned as part of a double duty weekend, as he will compete in the Truck Series at Charlotte Motor Speedway on Friday night before traveling to Toledo for practice and Menards Pole Qualifying presented by Ansell on Saturday, and of course, the race on Sunday.

After Friday’s race, Coulter and crew chief Harold Holly will travel nearly 600 miles to Toledo, where Coulter has three top-fives – including two runner-up finishes – among four top-10s in four ARCA starts. Coulter earned the Menards Pole Award at Toledo in his second race in 2009.

“Toledo Speedway, in my eyes, is a short track racer’s paradise,” Coulter said. “Ever since my first race there in 2009, I have been totally hooked and wish I had a chance to go back more often. My Coulter Motorsports guys have prepared me another awesome No. 61 Rip It Energy Fuel/Paramount hot rod and I can’t wait for Sunday’s race. I want to thank Paramount and Cedar Point for coming on board for this event. I look forward to giving them a great show on Sunday and hanging out at the park on Monday.”

The ARCA Racing Series will hold two practices Saturday, from 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1-1:45 p.m. Menards Pole Qualifying will begin at 3:30 p.m.

Sunday’s 200-lap, 100-mile race will start at 2 p.m. Tickets remain available at Toledo Speedway and Toledo-area Menards stores. To contact Toledo Speedway, call (419) 727-1100.

2012 is the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards’ 60th Anniversary Season, featuring 20 races at 18 tracks. The complete 2012 event schedule is available at ARCARacing.com.

The ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards has crowned an ARCA national champion each year since its inaugural season in 1953, and has toured over 200 race tracks in 28 states since its inception. The series has tested the abilities of drivers and race teams over the most diverse schedule of stock car racing events in the world, visiting tracks ranging from 0.4 mile to 2.66 miles in length, on both paved and dirt surfaces as well as a left- and right-turn road course in its most recent season. This year, the series visited Alabama’s Mobile International Speedway for the first time. In June, the first event at Minnesota’s Elko Speedway will give ARCA a race in a 29th state.

Founded by John and Mildred Marcum in 1953 in Toledo, Ohio, the Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA) is recognized among the leading sanctioning bodies in the country. Closing in on completing its sixth decade after hundreds of thousands of miles of racing, ARCA administers over 100 race events each season in three professional touring series and local weekly events.

May 14, 2012
Honda Indy Toronto renews important contracts, secures core features of the event through to 2014

[media-credit name=”Honda Indy Toronto” align=”alignright” width=”225″][/media-credit]May 14, 2012 (Toronto, ON) – Kim Green and Kevin Savoree, owners of Green Savoree Toronto LLC, announce today the renewal of contracts that reside at the heart of the Honda Indy Toronto, an annual event that has entertained Toronto residents and visitors since 1986. Contract renewals have been signed with the City of Toronto, Honda Canada, Exhibition Place, Tourism Toronto and INDYCAR through to 2014.

“The Honda Indy is a great example of the diverse sports scene in Toronto,” said Mark Grimes, Chair of Exhibition Place and City Councillor for Ward 6, Etobicoke-Lakeshore. “This race, and all the great events that come with it, is a Toronto tradition that offers great entertainment for local families, fans and visitors while contributing to the economic prosperity of our city.”

“Honda Canada is very proud to continue to be a key member of the team bringing the Honda Indy Toronto to our great city,” said Dave Gardner, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Honda Canada Inc. “This partnership continues to build on the successes of recent years and brings the highest level of racing excitement to Torontonians and Canadians.”

“The Honda Indy Toronto is more than just a race,” said David Whitaker, President and CEO of Tourism Toronto. “It’s an open and accessible festival for thousands of residents, a driver of tourism and a platform through which we promote our skyline, people and landmarks to the world. We all benefit from that.”

“With a strong heritage in open-wheel racing, Toronto continues to be a great fit for INDYCAR,” said Randy Bernard, CEO of INDYCAR. “It’s important from a business standpoint to be in one of the largest DMAs in North America. The circuit continues to produce some of our most competitive and memorable races and the Canadian race fans are some of the most enthusiastic in all of sports. Green Savoree has produced a first-class event in Toronto and we look forward to continuing our relationship well into the future.”

“This event is a part of our heritage, our fabric and our future,” said Charlie Johnstone, Vice President and General Manager of the Honda Indy Toronto. “We take the responsibility of putting on a good show very seriously and it is clear that a growing community of partners and fans believe in our vision and are ready to take a stake in the event.”

Green Savoree Racing Promotions, organizers of the Honda Indy Toronto, was created in 2009 to manage the Toronto event with a focus on partnerships, people and fiscal responsibility.

“Auto racing is exciting and accessible for fans, but it is also very attractive to corporate and public partners,” said Kim Green, Co-Owner of Green Savoree Racing promotions. “We wish to thank Honda Canada and all of our partners for helping us bring the Honda Indy Toronto to life.”

About Honda Indy Toronto

The Honda Indy Toronto takes place July 6-8, 2012 on the streets surrounding Exhibition Place near Lake Ontario and downtown Toronto. With 26 years of IndyCar racing history in Toronto, the Honda Indy Toronto is among the most respected motorsports events in North America and includes the fastest racing series on the planet, celebrity athletes, and a festival of live entertainment and interactive activities.

For more information, visit hondaindytoronto.com. Follow the Honda Indy Toronto on Twitter @HondaIndy and ‘Like’ us on Facebook at facebook.com/HondaIndyToronto

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May 14, 2012
NCATS: Dilley and Micks powered by Gaunt Collision Centres in 2012

[media-credit name=”Wide Open Solutions” align=”alignright” width=”300″][/media-credit]NASCAR Veterans, Kerry Micks and Mark Dilley, announced today that they will make a joint effort at the 2012 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Owners Championship, in their #02 Ford Fusions owned by Micks Motorsports. Kerry Micks will compete in the five road course events and Mark Dilley will drive at the seven ovals that make up the 2012 schedule.

Micks Motorsports is very excited to have long-time friends, Marty and John Gaunt supporting its efforts in 2012. Marty will supply engines out of his NASCAR winning motor facility, Triad Racing Technologies in North Carolina and John will show support from his Gaunt Collision Centers in Barrie.

The team will enjoy support from Leland Industries, Beyond Digital Imaging, PartSource, Triad Racing Technologies, Gaunt Collision Centers, Johnsonville Sausages, Armor All, STP, Cathcart Trucking, Seguin Marine, Castrol, Thor Motors, Sam Ester and Prostate Cancer Canada.

“I am looking forward to another new adventure,” laughs Dilley. “Kerry and I have been friends and raced against each other for over 25 years. To be teaming up with Kerry is very cool. Racing against him has provided me with some of my best memories, especially at Barrie. We have had some serious mishaps, but we have also had a lot of laughs over the years. I respect that he has always had top notch equipment and I am looking forward to being involved with Micks Motorsports and running for the owners’ championship. Sponsorship has been real tough this year, but one of the things that amazes me the most is how long time friends and business associates can come together at times like this. I need to thank Byron at Leland Industries, PartSource and all of the sponsors for coming on board this season with their support. Having the Gaunt brothers on board this season is very special to me, as they helped me get a started in racing 29 years ago. All I can say is that, 29 years ago, Micks, Dilley and the Gaunt brothers won a lot of races and here we go again, so tighten your chin straps, it should be exciting”.

“2012 is going to be very different year for sure,” remarked Kerry. “It will be the first time for Mark and I not to run a full season in our own rides. It will definitely be a change of scene to sit on the box and cheer for the other at the different events. I have not stood on the box and watched someone else race my car. We have partnered our sponsors and our crew together and I am really looking forward to the season”, exclaimed Micks. “Things have certainly come full circle in my 29 year career. I met Mark 29 years ago, when we were both rookies at Sunset Speedway. I believe that John (Gaunt) was considered a veteran then. I met Marty a few years later at Sauble Speedway, when he would borrow everything from me but the car to go racing. Now Marty is hugely successful south of the border with his Triad Racing Technologies engine shop and the same for John with the Gaunt Collision Centre in Barrie. Some of the best racing I ever experienced was going door handle to door handle with John in our late model days. I am not nervous nor do I have any reservations about Mark piloting the oval car, as I have watched him over the years, and I know that he takes care of his equipment. I know he can get the job done on the ovals and I will do my best on the road courses.”

The first event of 2012 will take place Saturday & Sunday May 19/20 at newly named Canadian Tire Motorsport Park in Bowmanville. For more information on this event please visit www.mosport.com

About Gaunt Collision Centres: Gaunt Collision Centers opens its doors with over 30 years of collision centre experience. We understand that navigating through the process of having your car repaired is not something people look forward to – much like going to the dentist. Our specialty is making sure your experience is as simple and pain-free as possible. Our team has the knowledge and understanding to help with insurance claims, provide towing where needed and return your vehicle in a timely manner with guaranteed repairs. For more information please visit www.gauntcollisioncentres.ca

About Triad Racing Technologies: Triad Racing Technologies is considered to be at the top of the industry for engine development and manufacturing. Since 2009, Triad engines have captured over 50 wins and 40 poles in the top four levels of stock car competition in the United States.

Triad was instrumental in Toyota winning the 2006 through 2010 Manufacturers Championships in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. www.triadrt.com

From Linda Jones / Wide Open Motorsport Solutions Inc.

May 14, 2012
McColm Promoting Canadian Olympic Effort

[media-credit name=”hometracks.nascar.com” align=”alignright” width=”220″][/media-credit]Launches Campaign To Cover Car With Twitter Handles

TORONTO – Inspired by their recent announcement, NASCAR Canadian Tire Series competitor Joey McColm decided to launch a Twitter drive in support of the Canadian Olympic Team’s branding campaign, “Give Your Everything.”

“I couldn’t agree more with the Canadian Olympic Team’s message to embrace the call to action of Giving Your Everything, in sport, school and day-to-day life,” said McColm. “I have the opportunity and the platform to help spread this inspiring message and hope to raise awareness of not only the sacrifices that our national team makes, but that great things can happen when all Canadians commit to “Give Your Everything.”

McColm, who will be competing in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series event at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park just north of Bowmanville, Ont., on May 19 – 20, will show his support of the Canadian Olympic Team with two powerful elements. First of all, McColm’s race car will carry the campaign Twitter hashtag – #GiveYourEverything – on the quarter panels, hood and on the back. Secondly, anyone who tweets a link to the Canadian Olympic Team’s new YouTube video – “Relentless” – and includes the hashtag #GiveYourEverything will have their Twitter handle added to the car, as well.

“This is a great opportunity to create some well-deserved buzz for the Canadian athletes who will represent us in London this summer,” explains McColm. “What we accomplished in Vancouver in 2010 showed the world what Canadians could do and I hope to contribute in my own small way to keeping that momentum going for our athletes in London this summer. I hope that we completely cover my car with Twitter handles!!”

Friends, fans, family and supporters of the Canadian Olympic Team are urged to tweet the link and the hashtag and McColm will apply each and every Twitter handle to his race car. As Twitter handles get applied to the race car, McColm will be tweeting photos between now and race day.

For more information, please contact Joey McColm via email at team50@cm2c.ca, or on Twitter at @JoeyMcColm

Link to “Relentless” YouTube video: (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YanUMireS9s&feature=player_embedded)

May 14, 2012

Venturini Motorsports and Family to be Inducted into the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame

[media-credit name=”venturinimotorsports.com” align=”alignright” width=”300″][/media-credit]Chicago, IL (May 14, 2012) — Already celebrating their 30th Anniversary of competition in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards, Venturini Motorsports along with Tony Venturini and Wendy Venturini have been recognized and voted into the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame and will be enshrined into the Hall later on this year as part of the Class of 2012.

This prestigious recognition is reserved for Italian American sports figures that have excelled while positively impacting and contributing to their respected sport at the highest level of competition.

This year’s distinguished class of inductees will include the Venturini family as they were unanimously voted into the Hall of Fame by the NIASHF’s Nominating Committee. The NIASHF’s Nominating Committee is made up of former inductees, sports writers and members of the NIASHF’s Board of Directors.

“The National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame is delighted to have such an illustrious group of inductees this year and the Venturini family is truly deserving of this honor for their many years of positive contributions to the motorsports world,” says George Randazzo, founder of the NIASHF.

The Venturini family members included on the list of sport figures being honored at this year’s NIASHF’s induction ceremony include, the lateTony Venturini, Bill Venturini, Cathy Venturini, Billy Venturini andWendy Venturini for their collective contributions to the motorsports industry.

Joining the Venturinis in the class of 2012 is:
John Smoltz, 8 time National League All-Star
Mark Recchi, 7 time NHL All-Star and 1997 All-Star Game MVP
Vito Antuofermo, former World Middleweight Champion
Ned Colletti, General Manager Los Angeles Dodgers
Jim Corno, President Comcast SportsNet Chicago
Lou Lamoriello, CEO, President & General Manger of the New Jersey Devils of the NHL
Larry Lucchino, President & CEO of the Boston Red Sox
Stefano Pelinga, multiyear international artistic pool champion

In addition to Bill Venturini Sr.’s forthcoming 2012 NIASHF’s induction, Venturini also secures a position within the walls of the International Motorsports Hall of Fame located outside Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama.

For the first time in the history of the NIASHF, a collective family will be inducted into the Hall of Fame as one entity versus the “individual” induction which is typically associated with such an honor.

The NIAHF’s induction ceremony will be hosted by Mike Piazza on November 17th in Rosemont, Illinois. This annual event will be attended by former inductees, as well as many of today’s top-sports figures.

Founded in 1977 and located in the “Little Italy” neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois, the NIASHF has inducted over 200 national sports figures and legends.

Notable sports figures already enshrined in the NIASHF include, “The Yankee Clipper,” Joe DiMaggio, legendary Boxing Heavy Weight Champion, Rocky Marciano, Green Bay Packer’s icon, Vince Lombardi, Football greats, Joe Montana and Dan Marino, Olympian Swimmer, Matt Biondi, Hockey great, Dino Ciccarelli, Indy car legend Mario Andretti, former Phoenix Suns and Arizona Diamondback’s Chairman/CEO, Jerry Colangelo, famed baseball manager, Tommy Lasorda and future baseball hall of famer, Mike Piazza, who also serves as the NIASHF’s National Spokesman among others

The Venturini name has become synonymous with modern-day stock car racing in America. The legacy was born over six decades ago when Tony Venturini began racing stock cars in the 1950’s at historic Soldiers Field in Chicago, Illinois. Tony, considered one of the early pioneers of the sport, competed with legendary NASCAR drivers, such as ‘Tiger’ Tom Pistone and Freddy Lorenzen.

More than any other sport, automobile racing tends to breed generations of racers. Case in point, Bill Venturini, Sr., following in his father’s footsteps, dedicated his life to racing and took the family pastime to new levels.

Bill’s competitiveness and passion for racing started in the 1970’s. With a dream and tireless dedication to succeed, Bill catapulted his career (driving / ownership) to the highest levels of stock-car racing.

As a former NASCAR driver and 2-time ARCA Racing Series Champion (1987 & 1991) as well as the 1983 ARCA Racing Series Rookie of the Year, Bill has cemented his place in motorsports history on and off the track.

With numerous racing accomplishments, including the all-time qualifying records at Daytona International Speedway and Talladega Speedway, he is also credited with forming the first ALL-female pit crew in professional motorsports.

Far from a publicity stunt, the all-female pit crew, led by his wife Cathy, played a major role in Bill’s first ARCA Championship in 1987.

Taking the reins from his father Bill, is his son Billy. Third-generation driver, Billy Venturini, jumped behind the wheel in 1994 competing in NASCAR and the ARCA Racing Series for over 10 years. With 162 career ARCA starts, Billy earned 28 Top-5 and 75 Top-10 finishes including a victory at historic Salem Speedway.

Representing the NOW generation for Venturini Motorsports, Billy’s greatest accomplishment came in 2007 when he transformed the team’s image by shifting focus and developing one of the premier NASCAR Driver Development Programs in the country.

Venturini Motorsports provides the top NASCAR driver prospects from around the world with the platform and experience to hone their driving skills as they pursue their dreams of reaching the highest levels of automobile racing in America, NASCAR.

Venturini Motorsports competes in the national touring ARCA Racing Series, which is considered the “NASCAR” driver feeder series. Many of today’s current NASCAR drivers and team members have competed in the ARCA Racing Series prior to moving onto their NASCAR careers

Proving you don’t have to be one of the boys, Bill’s daughter, and award winning broadcaster for the FOX network’s SPEED TV, Wendy Venturini, will share in the honor for her accomplishments as an on-air personality for SPEED TV #1 rated NASCAR pre-race television show, NASCAR RaceDay.

Wendy, whose celebrity is known by millions of NASCAR fans coast-to-coast, was the first female reporter in history to provide live television play-by-play for a NASCAR race in 2007. Admired and respected by the entire NASCAR community, Wendy’s upbringing and vast knowledge and history of NASCAR makes her the premier female broadcast personality in all of professional racing.

Notable current NASCAR drivers who have raced under the Venturini banner include, Joey Logano, Justin Allgaier, Brian Scott, Miguel Paludo, Steve Arpin, Josh Richards, Ryan Blaney, Kevin Swindell, Sean Caisse, Marc Davis and Max Gresham.

Joey Logano, who drives for Joe Gibbs Racing, was honored by the NIAHF in 2009, as the “Yogi Berra Athlete of the Year” recipient, which subsequently was the same year he raced for Venturini Motorsports, winning in the ARCA Racing Series event at Pocono Raceway in Long Pond, Pennsylvania.

Official: www.VenturiniMotorsports.com | Twitter @VenturiniMotor | Facebook: Venturini Motorsports

May 14, 2012

ARCA — LOVING-PELLETIER-SCHUSTER GRAB FLAT ROCK CHECKERED FLAGS

[media-credit name=”arcaracing.com” align=”alignright” width=”300″][/media-credit]Flat Rock, MI-May 12, 2012: Flat Rock Speedway and sponsor Parts Galore welcomed back dozens of former drivers for the Racer’s Reunion and to celebrate 50 years of Figure 8 racing at the track. The rain stayed to the north of the speedway, allowing for the Autograph Night, reunion and the race card to be completed with no weather issues.

Among the Figure 8 drivers on hand were Flat Rock’s 3 all-time Figure 8 feature win leaders-Bob Studt, Dick “Little Richard” Simmons and Chuck Hall. Studt and Hall, who both still live in the area, are at the track each week, while Simmons, who made the trip from Florida, was the very first Figure 8 king at Flat Rock in 1962 and was the star of the early days of Figure 8 racing.

The crowd was treated to another great night of action at “The Rock”, with Robbie Loving taking the victory in the exciting 50 lap ARCA Parts Galore Figure 8 headliner. Paul Pelletier made it 2 in a row in the Moran Chevrolet Late Models, while Landon Schuster, teamed with veteran car owner Bill Meade this season, grabbed the ARCA DTS Drive Train Specialists Street Stock feature.

With former Figure 8 drivers on hand from as far away as Arizona and Florida, the current crop of Figure 8 pilots put a smile on the faces of the men that blazed the path for this type of racing at Flat Rock Speedway for 50 years. A sensational Parts Galore 50 lap feature saw 3 different leaders as the strong 18 car field provided pure entertainment and excitement-dodging cars at the intersection, racing side by side, bumping and running door to door and all the little things that go with it to make Figure 8 racing one of the best races in the nation in terms of entertainment. Early leader Jeremy Vanderhoof took charge at the start and was strong out front but Dennis Whisman reeled in the defending track champ to grab the lead around the half-way mark. Whisman, who is currently fifth in the all-time win category for the class, had company in the final 5 laps. Robbie Loving, fresh off his win at Toledo Friday night, zipped by Dennis to take the top spot and stay there to grab his second win in a row at Flat Rock, giving him 3 total wins for the Figure 8 division in the first 2 weeks of the season. The top 6 ran nose to tail for much of the 50 lap race. Whisman held on to second, Greg Studt took third, Jeremy Miller fourth and Vanderhoof was fifth, followed by Gary Cronenwett, Jerry Lee, Danny Gaddis, Steve Chartrand and Sam Hall. Studt set fast time at 20:672, with heat wins to Gaddis,Miller and Billy Earley.

It’s been a great start to 2012 for Paul Pelletier at Flat Rock. Defending champ Eric Lee led from the start of the 50 lap ARCA Moran Chevrolet Late Model feature and, much like last week, looked like the win was in sight. But lapped traffic gave Pelletier a shot at the lead. As the duo approached the lapped cars, Lee got trapped, Pelletier dipped low and gained control of the lead. Paul sped to the win, making it 2 for 2. Lee, who had a tire go flat last week to take away a potential win, had to settle for second. Ricky Kargel was third, Dennis Strickland fourth and Steve Cronenwett Jr. was fifth. Derek Wiley, Joe Hawes, Stan Yee Jr., Terry Bogusz and Jim Alvis rounded out the top ten. Wiley set fast time for the second week in a row at 11:656. Hawes and rookie Brad Turner captured the heat race wins. 18 cars were on hand for the night.

Landon Schuster notched the win in the 25 lap DTS Drive Train Specialists Street Stock main event of the night. Landon, in his first year with car owner Bill Meade, led every lap to grab the victory, coming back from a tough opening night last week. Tadek Stadniczuk was second, Scott Selmi was third, (who had engine trouble last week), Grant Hedges fourth and last week’s winner Clyde McKee was fifth. Frank Jiovani, Arnold Kirsch, Rob Moore, Nick Shanks and Terry Lilley were next in line at the finish. Kirsch, Billy Cronce and Rich Frantz were the heat winners. Tim Moore set the Fastime Racing Engines and Parts quick time at 13:490 for the 24 car field.

Open-wheel racing returns to Flat Rock Speedway next Saturday, May 19 as part of UAW Local 3000 Scout Night. All scouts in uniform will be admitted FREE and leaders in uniform or with an ID card will also be guests of the speedway. The Buckeye 305 Winged Sprint Cars will make the trip to Flat Rock. The series put on a great show in 2011 with a turn 4 pass for the win. The track’s ARCA Parts Galore Figure 8’s and DTS Drive Train Specialists Street Stocks will also be in action.

The gates open at 3:30, time trials are at 5 and racing begins at 7 p.m. The track is located on Telegraph Road, just 5 minutes from I-75 or I-275. The track phone number is 734-782-2480.

Log onto www.flatrockspeedway.com for more information. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/toledoflatrock or follow us on Twitter @flatrockspeed.

May 13, 2012
JR Fitzpatrick to Focus on Racing in Canada; Seat Open at Turn One

[media-credit id=4 align=”alignright” width=”200″][/media-credit]China Grove, NC (May 11, 2012) – Turn One Racing announced today that driver JR Fitzpatrick may not return to the seat of the No. 60 Chevrolet after efforts to find a full-season sponsor have been slow to materialize. Instead, Fitzpatrick will focus on another championship run in the Canadian Tire Series, and may return to the NASCAR Camping World Truck Seriesin a limited number of events later this year.

“We are definitely disappointed that JR will not be finishing out the year in the 60 truck,” said Team Owner, Stacy Compton. “He is a great young man with a lot of talent who has never really got the chance to race in the States all year long. We knew going in that we had an uphill battle ahead of us in trying to secure a full-season sponsor, but we were willing to take the gamble and put him in the truck at Daytona and Martinsville. Unfortunately, we just haven’t been able to secure a sponsor for JR and he has decided to focus on his racing efforts in Canada.”

When asked what that means for his team, Compton said, “We are actively looking for drivers who have sponsorship backing, while also pounding the pavement to try and find sponsors of our own. We went to the last two races with minimal sponsorship to try to keep the truck up in points so we have something more marketable to potential sponsors. Having a guaranteed starting spot is definitely more enticing to sponsors anddrivers alike.”

Compton’s team was one of the top contenders in 2011. Rookie Cole Whitt sat on the pole at Darlington, led six events, ran door-to-door with Kyle Busch before falling to second at Dover, and claimed 11 top-10 finishes in 25 starts. The team went on to finish ninth in the series standings.

May 11, 2012

Posse 1, Outlaws 0: Dietrich Claims The Gettysburg Clash

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The Pennsylvanian collects his first career World of Outlaws victory at Lincoln

ABBOTTSTOWN, Pa. — May 10, 2012 — The flash bulbs kept popping, the confetti kept falling and the celebration kept intensifying.

It wasn’t a normal Victory Lane. Then again, Danny Dietrich isn’t a normal winner and the World of Outlaws vs. Pennsylvania Posse rivalry isn’t a normal matchup.

Dietrich, a native Pennsylvanian whose 24^th birthday is a week and a half away, picked up his first career World of Outlaws victory on Thursday in The Gettysburg Clash at Lincoln Speedway.

“Words can’t express,” a beaming Dietrich said. “I’m ready to go drink a few beers.”

Dietrich was dominant in the first World of Outlaws event at the semi-banked, 3/8-mile oval since 1998. After starting seventh, he was up to fourth place within the first three laps. Following a caution on lap four for Alan Krimes, who spun in turn one, Dietrich took little time finding the lead.

He passed Danny Lasoski for third on the backstretch of lap four and then blew by polesitter Lance Dewease for the runner-up position on the ensuing lap. Dietrich edged Sam Hafetertepe Jr. for the lead as the duo cross the finish line on lap six and quickly checked out.

“When he drove around us on the outside I knew that there was nobody going to beat him tonight,” Hafertepe Jr. said. “That’s the most dominant car that’s been out here in a long time.”

Dietrich had to survive four cautions, including the final three for drivers who had trouble while running in the top 10. Lasoski slowed dramatically on the backstretch on lap 18 and Adam Wilt hit the wall in turn two on lap 24. The final caution came on the restart for fifth-running Doug Esh, who came to a stop in turn two after colliding with another driver.

Despite double-file restarts, Dietrich rocketed to the lead every time and never faced a stiff challenge once he found the top spot.

“All about knowing the track and getting the setup right,” he said. “I felt like we hit it perfect from the drop of the green and hopefully we can do that the rest of the weekend.

“This is pretty much a normal Saturday night for us. We’ve been fast. We just had to clear up a few issues. Luckily we put it all together tonight.”

It was the third win of the season for Dietrich, which comes as no surprise to Dewease.

“Danny deserves to win,” he said after finishing second. “He’s been the best race car in Central PA all year and definitely the best race car here all year.

“He started seventh so he must have been pretty good to get up through there that quick. I’m sure he got to the top before a lot of people did, but he can run anywhere at this race track.”

Hafertepe Jr. was third with Cory Haas charging from 17^th to finish fourth. Lucas Wolfe, who hails from nearby Mechanicsburg, was the top World of Outlaws driver as he placed fifth.

Kevin Nouse earned the KSE Hard Charger Award after maneuvering from 23^rd to sixth. Donny Schatz finished seventh and is the new World of Outlaws points leader. It marks the sixth consecutive race the top spot has changed.

Fred Rahmer drove from 22^nd to eighth, Daryn Pittman finished ninth and Gerard McIntyre rounded out the top 10.

Sammy Swindell, who entered the event with the World of Outlaws points lead, set quick time with a lap of 14.501 seconds. Wolfe, Chad Kemenah, McIntyre and Esh each claimed a heat race, with Bill Stine winning the C Main and Brad McClelland the Last Chance Showdown.

The World of Outlaws face the Posse at Williams Grove Speedway in Mechanicsburg on Friday and Saturday.

“We’re strong,” Dietrich said of the Posse. “I think we’re always fast when the Outlaws come to town. Hopefully we can keep it up.”

The Gettysburg Clash Notebook

CONTINGENCY WINNERS – Penske Shocks ($100 certificate): Brian Montieth; MSD Ignitions ($50 cash): Lucas Wolfe; Comp Cams ($50 certificate): Cory Haas; Armor All (case of product): Cory Haas; STP ($50 cash): Lucas Wolfe; UNOH ($50 cash): Lucas Wolfe; Gravely Tractors ($50 cash): Donny Schatz; VP Racing Fuel ($50 cash): Alan Krimes; Comp Cams ($50 cash): Gerard McIntyre; JE Pistons (set of rings): Alan Krimes; Cometic Gasket ($50 cash): Cody Darrah; Wix Filters ($50 cash): Stevie Smith; Superflow ($50 cash): Chad Kemenah; JE Pistons ($50 cash): Brad McClelland; JE Pistons (set of rings): Craig Dollansky; MSD Ignitions ($25 cash): Kraig Kinser; Klotz Synthetic Lubricants ($50 cash): Brad McClelland.

WINNERS – Sammy Swindell – 4 (Eldora Speedway on May 5, Knoxville Raceway on April 28, Missouri State Fair Speedway on April 20 and Merced Speedway on March 30); Donny Schatz – 3 (Farmer City Raceway on April 25, Silver Dollar Speedway on March 23 and Volusia Speedway Park on Feb. 19); Craig Dollansky – 2 (Tri-State Speedway on April 21 and Volusia Speedway Park on Feb. 19); Tim Kaeding – 2 (Thunderbowl Raceway on March 16 and The Dirt Track at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on March 8); Joey Saldana – 2 (Paducah International Raceway on April 13 and Perris Auto Speedway on March 10); Danny Dietrich – 1 (Lincoln Speedway on May 10); Chad Kemenah – 1 (Eldora Speedway on May 4); Danny Lasoski – 1 (Volusia Speedway Park on Feb. 18).

TIME TRIALS – Sammy Swindell was the fastest qualifier around the 3/8-mile oval with a time of 14.501 seconds to earn five championship points. Also earning points were Donny Schatz (4 points), Adam Wilt (3), Daryn Pittman (2) and Jac Haudenschild (1).

The Gettysburg Clash Statistical Report; Lincoln Speedway; Abbottstown, Pa.; May 10, 2012

A-Main – (30 Laps) – 1. 48-Danny Dietrich [7] [$6,000]; 2. 30C-Lance Dewease [1] [$3,500]; 3. 1Z-Sam Hafertepe Jr [2] [$2,000]; 4. 11C-Cory Haas [17] [$1,800]; 5. 5W-Lucas Wolfe [5] [$1,500]; 6. 14-Kevin Nouse [23] [$1,400]; 7. 15-Donny Schatz [6] [$1,350]; 8. 51-Fred Rahmer [22] [$1,300]; 9. 27-Daryn Pittman [12] [$1,250]; 10. 85-Gerard McIntyre [10] [$1,200]; 11. 87-Alan Krimes [26] [$400]; 12. 4-Cody Darrah [27] [$300]; 13. 19-Stevie Smith [19] [$700]; 14. 11-Steve Kinser [20] [$650]; 15. 63-Chad Kemenah [9] [$600]; 16. 21-Brian Montieth [24] [$550]; 17. 6B-Brad McClelland [16] [$500]; 18. 1-Sammy Swindell [11] [$500]; 19. 9-Joey Saldana [21] [$500]; 20. 5-Jac Haudenschild [13] [$500]; 21. 69-Tim Glatfelter [18] [$500]; 22. 7-Craig Dollansky [15] [$500]; 23. 30-Doug Esh [8] [$500]; 24. 11K-Kraig Kinser [25] [$]; 25. 15A-Adam Wilt [4] [$500]; 26. 98-Danny Lasoski [3] [$500]; 27. 19M-Brent Marks [14] [$500]; 28. 38N-Nick Schlauch Jr. [28] [$]. Lap Leaders: Sam Hafertepe Jr. 1-5, Danny Dietrich 6-30. KSE Hard Charger Award: 14-Kevin Nouse [+17].

Qualifying – 1. 1-Sammy Swindell, 14.501; 2. 15-Donny Schatz, 14.765; 3. 15A-Adam Wilt, 14.828; 4. 27-Daryn Pittman, 14.856; 5. 5-Jac Haudenschild, 14.908; 6. 98-Danny Lasoski, 14.911; 7. 19M-Brent Marks, 14.913; 8. 7-Craig Dollansky, 14.930; 9. 5W-Lucas Wolfe, 14.954; 10. 6B-Brad McClelland, 14.959; 11. 1Z-Sam Hafertepe Jr, 15.061; 12. 30C-Lance Dewease, 15.069; 13. 48-Danny Dietrich, 15.078; 14. 63-Chad Kemenah, 15.080; 15. 85-Gerard McIntyre, 15.092; 16. 30-Doug Esh, 15.109; 17. 1S-Logan Schuchart, 15.115; 18. 11C-Cory Haas, 15.138; 19. 69-Tim Glatfelter, 15.150; 20. 29-Kerry Madsen, 15.152; 21. 19-Stevie Smith, 15.160; 22. 11-Steve Kinser, 15.163; 23. 9-Joey Saldana, 15.173; 24. 51-Fred Rahmer, 15.186; 25. 92-Niki Young, 15.206; 26. 13-Paul McMahan, 15.217; 27. 11K-Kraig Kinser, 15.254; 28. 4-Cody Darrah, 15.316; 29. 38N-Nick Schlauch Jr., 15.348; 30. 77-Aaron Ott, 15.350; 31. 14-Kevin Nouse, 15.377; 32. 87-Alan Krimes, 15.386; 33. 21-Brian Montieth, 15.450; 34. 2-Ryan Bohlke, 15.485; 35. 71X-Bill Stine, 15.486; 36. 3B-Randy Baughman, 15.501; 37. 59-Jim Siegel, 15.535; 38. 54-Cap Henry, 15.565; 39. 65-Johnny Mackison, 15.640; 40. 5T-Glenndon Forsythe, 15.666; 41. 95-Hunter Mackison, 15.673; 42. 70-Sam Schlosberg, 15.750; 43. 20S-Derek Sell, 15.796; 44. 6-Bill Rose, 15.838; 45. 23-Todd Zinn, 16.282.

Heat 1 – (8 Laps – Top 5 finishers transfer to the A-feature) – 1. 5W-Lucas Wolfe [2]; 2. 48-Danny Dietrich [1]; 3. 5-Jac Haudenschild [3]; 4. 19-Stevie Smith [6]; 5. 21-Brian Montieth [9]; 6. 1-Sammy Swindell [4]; 7. 92-Niki Young [7]; 8. 1S-Logan Schuchart [5]; 9. 59-Jim Siegel [10]; 10. 38N-Nick Schlauch Jr. [8]; 11. 95-Hunter Mackison [11]; 12. 23-Todd Zinn [12].

Heat 2 – (8 Laps – Top 5 finishers transfer to the A-feature) – 1. 63-Chad Kemenah [1]; 2. 98-Danny Lasoski [3]; 3. 11C-Cory Haas [5]; 4. 15-Donny Schatz [4]; 5. 11-Steve Kinser [6]; 6. 77-Aaron Ott [8]; 7. 2-Ryan Bohlke [9]; 8. 54-Cap Henry [10]; 9. 6B-Brad McClelland [2]; 10. 70-Sam Schlosberg [11]; 11. 13-Paul McMahan [7].

Heat 3 – (8 Laps – Top 5 finishers transfer to the A-feature) – 1. 85-Gerard McIntyre [1]; 2. 1Z-Sam Hafertepe Jr [2]; 3. 19M-Brent Marks [3]; 4. 15A-Adam Wilt [4]; 5. 9-Joey Saldana [6]; 6. 69-Tim Glatfelter [5]; 7. 14-Kevin Nouse [8]; 8. 11K-Kraig Kinser [7]; 9. 71X-Bill Stine [9]; 10. 65-Johnny Mackison [10]; 11. 20S-Derek Sell [11].

Heat 4 – (8 Laps – Top 5 finishers transfer to the A-feature) – 1. 30-Doug Esh [1]; 2. 30C-Lance Dewease [2]; 3. 7-Craig Dollansky [3]; 4. 27-Daryn Pittman [4]; 5. 51-Fred Rahmer [6]; 6. 4-Cody Darrah [7]; 7. 87-Alan Krimes [8]; 8. 29-Kerry Madsen [5]; 9. 3B-Randy Baughman [9]; 10. 6-Bill Rose [11]; 11. 5T-Glenndon Forsythe [10].

Dash – (6 Laps, finishing order determined first 10 starting positions of A-feature) – 1. 30C-Lance Dewease [1]; 2. 1Z-Sam Hafertepe Jr [2]; 3. 98-Danny Lasoski [4]; 4. 15A-Adam Wilt [5]; 5. 5W-Lucas Wolfe [3]; 6. 15-Donny Schatz [6]; 7. 48-Danny Dietrich [7]; 8. 30-Doug Esh [10]; 9. 63-Chad Kemenah [8]; 10. 85-Gerard McIntyre [9].

C-Main – (10 Laps – Top 2 finishers transfer to the B-feature) – 1. 71X-Bill Stine [1] [-]; 2. 65-Johnny Mackison [4] [-]; 3. 59-Jim Siegel [3] [$150]; 4. 70-Sam Schlosberg [7] [$125]; 5. 5T-Glenndon Forsythe [5] [$125]; 6. 3B-Randy Baughman [2] [$100]; 7. 95-Hunter Mackison [6] [$100]; 8. 23-Todd Zinn [9] [$100]; 9. 6-Bill Rose [8] [$100]; 10. 54-Cap Henry [10] [$100]; 11. 20S-Derek Sell [11] [$100].

B-Main – (12 Laps – Top 4 finishers transfer to the A-feature) – 1. 6B-Brad McClelland [2] [-]; 2. 69-Tim Glatfelter [4] [-]; 3. 1-Sammy Swindell [1] [-]; 4. 14-Kevin Nouse [12] [-]; 5. 4-Cody Darrah [9] [$200]; 6. 87-Alan Krimes [13] [$180]; 7. 38N-Nick Schlauch Jr. [10] [$175]; 8. 71X-Bill Stine [15] [$160]; 9. 65-Johnny Mackison [16] [$150]; 10. 29-Kerry Madsen [5] [$150]; 11. 13-Paul McMahan [7] [$150]; 12. 2-Ryan Bohlke [14] [$150]; 13. 11K-Kraig Kinser [8] [$150]; 14. 92-Niki Young [6] [$150]; 15. 1S-Logan Schuchart [3] [$150]; 16. 77-Aaron Ott [11] [$150].

World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series Top 20 Championship Standings

Pos.	Driver	Total	Diff	Wins	T5s	T10s	QT
1	Donny Schatz	2223	0	3	7	14	0
2	Sammy Swindell	2213	-10	4	9	12	3
3	Joey Saldana	2166	-57	2	7	12	2
4	Steve Kinser	2152	-71	0	6	11	0
5	Kraig Kinser	2100	-123	0	4	11	2
6	Craig Dollansky	2069	-154	2	6	8	1
7	Cody Darrah	1986	-237	0	3	5	0
8	Chad Kemenah	1976	-247	1	2	6	2
9	Jason Sides	1974	-249	0	5	9	0
10	Lucas Wolfe	1914	-309	0	1	4	0

May 11, 2012