Oval Racing Stock car style in Québec, Ontario and New England States

2015-05-04

Steve Bernard et Mathieu Desjardins a la défense de leur titre.

Steve Bernard et Mathieu Desjardins a la défense de leur titre.

Lundi 4 mai 2015-Steve Bertrand-Directeur des communications.

Nous sommes à quelques jours du début de saison à l'Autodrome Drummond puisque les premiers tours de piste auront lieu le 9 mai prochain en soirée. Ce sera le temps pour certains d'apprivoiser leur nouvelle monture.

Débutons par la catégorie reine c'est-à-dire en modifié, le champion de l'Autodrome Drummond en 2015, Steve Bernard a bien l'intention de défendre son titre avec succès. Ce dernier est revenu satisfait de son expérience en Floride en février dernier. En plus du champion de l'an dernier, on se doit de surveiller le champion 2013 David Hébert qui sera avec une nouvelle équipe du côté de Drummond en 2015. Mario Clair et Gino Clair qui ont connu une excellente saison l'an dernier sur le tracé de l'Autodrome Drummond sont également de sérieux candidats. Les pilotes originaires de Drummondville Sébastien Gougeon et Yan Bussière seront également à prendre au sérieux. On doit y ajouter, Claude Brouillard Dominic Dufault, Alan et Clément Therrien, Dany Bilodeau qui peut également se sauver avec les honneurs. Avec un calendrier condensé de 12 programmes comptant pour les points, on se doit d'être constant en évitant les embuches afin de récolter un maximum de points à chacun des programmes.

Du côté de la classe sportsman, le champion 2014, Mathieu Desjardins sera de retour pour défendre son titre. En ce début de saison, il demeure le favori, mais tout comme en modifié plusieurs peuvent le surprendre et lui ravir son titre. On peut penser à Guy Ouellette, Martin Pelletier ainsi que la recrue2014, Etienne Cournoyer pour ne nommer que ceux-ci!

Comme on peut voir, il y a plusieurs aspirants pour le titre de champion 2015 autant en modifié que du côté de la catégorie sportsman. Bien qu'il y ait des pratiques le 9 mai, on passera aux choses sérieuses le samedi 23 mai prochain pour la soirée découverte alors que chacun va vouloir connaitre un excellent début de saison 2015 à l'Autodrome Drummond.

L'Autodrome Drummond la F1 de la terre battue.

Steve Bertrand

Directeur des communications

Autodrome Drummond

www.autodromedrummond.com

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2015-05-02

Helliwell, ACT Tour Take on Local Stars in Merchants Bank 150

Helliwell, ACT Tour Take on Local Stars in Merchants Bank 150

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ACT043015-38

<<ATTACHED PHOTO (tr04271452.jpg): American-Canadian Tour regulars such as point leader Wayne Helliwell Jr. (#27VT) will take on Thunder Road Late Model stars such as Barre, VT's Nick Sweet (#88VT) in the Merchants Bank 150 on Sunday, May 3. (Alan Ward photo)

Barre, VT—The American-Canadian Tour (ACT) will help Barre, VT's Thunder Road open its 56^thseason of competition on Sunday, May 3 with the 17^th Annual Merchants Bank 150. Wayne Helliwell Jr. will be going for his second straight win in the event, but a host of ACT Tour and local Thunder Road Late Model drivers are looking to take the trophy home.

Dover, NH's Helliwell picked up his first Thunder Road win in last year's Merchants Bank 150, taking the lead using a crossover move on Jimmy Hebert with 16 laps remaining. The two-time ACT Tour Champion became the 11^thdifferent winner in 16 editions of the event. Helliwell and his Bruce Bernhardt–owned team come into this year's event with the ACT Tour point lead after their victory in last Sunday's New Hampshire Governor's Cup 150 at Lee USA Speedway in Lee, NH.

"I think it was more luck than anything last year, but we're definitely proud of that win," Helliwell said. "That race is always tough...restarts are really critical. If we can get the car working on the bottom like it was last time, I think we'll have something."

Helliwell will have to contend with New Hamphire rival and defending ACT Tour Champion Joey Polewarczyk Jr. "Joey Pole" sits second in the standings, nine points behind Helliwell, after rallying from a late-race spin at Lee USA. Top Tour runners Jimmy Hebert, Jeff White, Emily Packard, and Brad Babb will also be on hand. Nick Sweet, who ran the first two Tour events for Eric Chase's #40VT team, will be back behind the wheel of his weekly #88VT mount.

Many of the weekly Thunder Road Late Model competitors will be racing as well. Multi-time Champions Derrick O'Donnell, David Pembroke, and Phil Scott all attended an open practice session on Tuesday, April 28 to get their cars dialed in. Local Barre driver Jason Corliss was the first Thunder Road competitor to enter the event, while Brooks Clark, Josh Demers, and Chip Grenier have also filed entries.

The Merchants Bank 150 offers a chance for local racers to take on the stars of the ACT Tour while getting an early start to their season. 2014 Rookie of the Year Eric Badore hopes to use the event as a springboard for a top-five finish in the 2015 point standings.

"I think it's pretty cool to run against Joey Pole, Wayne Helliwell, and all those top runners that are winning on a weekly basis," Badore said. "It's fun to race against them. You can learn a little something different from those guys, because we don't run 150 laps every week."

"It just makes it that much tougher, because the locals run there weekly or have run there for years," Helliwell added. "We come in maybe once or twice a year, so it's definitely tough."

Thunder Road's 56^th season-opening weekend begins on Saturday, May 2 with the annual Thunder Road Car Show on Main Street in Barre from 9:00am to 12:00pm, followed by the race car parade up Quarry Hill to the track featuring the Catamount Pipe Band, the "Warpipes of Thunder Road." An open practice session for all divisions will follow and is open to the public. Post time for the Merchants Bank 150 on Sunday, May 3 is 1:00pm. Admission is $25 for adults with kids 12 and under admitted free.

For more information contact the ACT and Thunder Road offices at 802.244.6963, media@acttour.com, or visit www.acttour.com or www.thunderroadspeedbowl.com.

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2015-05-01

Graham Racing Puts the Final Touches on a Busy 2015 Agenda

By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

The calendar shows the opening dates are coming up fast, so the father and son race team of Craig and Brandt Graham is quickly working their way through their pre-season checklists.

On one side of the Orono, Ontario shop sits the bright orange Dodge Charger that 16 year old Brandt Graham will campaign on the Lucas Oil Sportsman Cup Series. The Clarke High School student will contend for Rookie of the Year Honours on a 7 event schedule that begins Saturday, May 9^th at Full Throttle Motor Speedway. Its stable-mate is the red Chevrolet Impala SS Late Model machine that 2013 Peterborough Speedway track champion will campaign in selected starts on the APC Pro Late Model Tour, getting underway Saturday, May 23^rd at Sunset Speedway. Craig Graham says it's an exciting time for the team, as each driver begins the 2015 season with a new racing agenda.

"It's almost like counting down the days to Christmas morning," explained Graham. "Each of us raced at one track or another throughout our career, but if everything goes according to plan, we'll spend much of the summer months touring throughout the province. As a father and coach, I want to support Brandt as much as possible. There are a couple of conflicting dates on the schedules, so we'll have to see how things play out."

Graham says his father in-law Marten Rottine and the crew have been working hard to get both cars ready to make their 2015 debut. Each machine had the bodywork removed so the frame, chassis and suspension components could be checked over. Engines have been freshened and now, everything is being put back together. It's almost like building model cars; just on a much larger scale.

"There's a lot going on pretty much any time of the day or night," admitted Graham, who works as Fixed Vehicle Operations Manager at Clarington Hyundai in Bowmanville. "Everything is on pace and we're working smart, not hard. You can't rush through any aspect of a project this detailed. Marten has always been a stickler for making sure things are done a certain way. Our names are over the doors, but he's the one running the show. Neither team would be in a position to even attempt a program like this without an experienced hand taking charge, so we're letting him call the shots."

Marketing plans for the new campaign are coming into place, with Oshawa, Ontario's Arcade Pools on board and complimenting returning sponsors Full Circle Automation Inc., J&M Restoration and Collision, Autocare, Hot Rod Swag and Squirrel Head Music. Paint scheme and design work for Craig and Brandt Graham's 2015 efforts are by Mayhew Graphics, with team media and public relations being handled by Clarke Motorsports Communications.

Fans can follow Craig and Brandt Graham on the track and behind the scenes throughout the 2015 season by liking the 'Graham Racing' page at www.facebook.com.

Photo attachment: Graham Racing collection

After a long winter of hard work, the Graham Racing equipment for the father and son team of Craig and Brandt Graham is ready for the first green flag of the 2015 season.

Prepared by: Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

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Spencer Davis Eyes PASS South And KOMA Modified Double At Kingsport

Spencer Davis Eyes PASS South And KOMA Modified Double At Kingsport

- For Immediate Release

CHARLOTTE, NC (April 30) – Tennessee's Kingsport Speedway will see its share of firsts next Friday night as the Pro All Stars Series (PASS) South Super Late Models and Pro Late Models make their return to the Volunteer State for the first time since 2012. The Daniel Boone Classic will be the first time PASS has ever raced at the 3/8 mile Kingsport Speedway. It will also be the first time the PASS South Super Late Models have ever been paired with the KOMA Unwind Modified Madness Series. PASS South and the KOMA Modifieds will compete in Twin 125's in an event no short track fan will want to miss.

One driver especially looking forward to next Friday night at Kingsport Speedway will be Dawsonville, GA's, Spencer Davis. Davis is a former PASS Pro Late Model winner and had a stellar rookie season in the PASS South Super Late Model division in 2013, finishing second to Jay Fogleman in the final standings. At Kingsport, Davis will attempt the double, driving his family-owned #129 in the PASS South Super Late Model 125 lapper and piloting the #79 Hillbilly Racing entry in the KOMA Unwind Modified Madness portion of the Daniel Boone Classic.

"I'm very excited to pull the double at Kingsport Speedway with PASS and the KOMA Modified Series," says Davis. "I've never been to Kingsport, but I have received a lot of information for the upcoming race. I'm excited to be racing on the concrete surface too."

Kingsport Speedway has a reputation for being equally as tough on drivers as it is on equipment. For Davis, 250 green flag laps in two of short track racing's most competitive divisions could prove to be a daunting task. But, it's a challenge the 16-year-old driver welcomes as he looks forward to next Friday night.

"I honestly have no concerns for competing for 250 green flag laps, I'm actually excited too," said a confident Davis. "I love the longer races and how much strategy goes into them. And going from one race to another, it will give me enough time to adapt back to the car I am racing."

The PASS South Super Late Models and KOMA Unwind Modifieds provide some of the fastest, most action-packed competition in all of short track racing. Each car is relatively light weight, with a lot of power and maneuverability for the drivers. And, while they do share some similarities, Davis says they also have a lot of differences he will have to decipher through at Kingsport.

"From a driver's standpoint, the biggest similarity between the two cars is how they steer, but other than that, they are totally different," say Davis. "You run different lines with the cars considering the dramatic change in tire size and the power between the Modified and the PASS Super. The actual interiors of the cars are really different too and also how much lower to the ground you sit with the Modified."

Davis will have his fair share of competition from the PASS South regulars when he races the Super Late Model, including current points leader, Zane Smith, and fellow championship contenders Tate Fogleman, Jody Measamer, and Jimmy Doyle. Kingsport Speedway veterans Lee Tissot and Wade Day will also present another variable to the PASS regulars as they try to protect their home turf.

Action begins on Friday, May 8 with pit gates opening at Kingsport Speedway at Noon, rotating practice for the PASS South Super Late Models, KOMA Unwind Modifieds, PASS Pro Late Models, Legends, and Flathead Fords starting at 2 PM, followed by qualifying at 5 PM, and feature racing at 7:45 PM. PASS South Super Late Model and PASS Pro Late Model entry forms for the Daniel Boone Classic can be found at ProAllStarsSeries.com.

The Pro All Stars Series is recognized as North America's premier sanctioning body for asphalt Super Late Models and boasts such marquee events as the legendary AIM Recycling Oxford 250 Presented By Kenny U-Pull at Oxford Plains Speedway and PASS South's Easter Bunny 150 at the historic Hickory Motor Speedway. For technical information concerning all PASS divisions please send questions to passracing@roadrunner.com. For media or marketing questions, please contact Alan Dietz at 704-231-2039 or alandietzpass@live.com. And, don't forget to "Like" the Pro All Stars Series on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @PASSSLM14 to keep up with breaking news as it happens.

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Teams Preparing for Pit Strategy in Modified Opener at Airborne Park Speedway

ATTACHED PHOTO: Jason Durgan (#17) is among the drivers preparing for a twist in pit stop strategy at Airborne Park Speedway's FedEx Ground 100 on Saturday night. (Airborne Park Speedway photo)

Teams Preparing for Pit Strategy in Modified Opener at Airborne Park Speedway

Fuel stop may be required in FedEx Ground 100 on Saturday

For Immediate Release APS-043015-1

PLATTSBURGH, NY – Modified stock car racing teams at Airborne Park Speedway are crunching the numbers as the season opener looms on Saturday night,May 2, at 6:00 p.m. For the first time in recent memory, fuel strategy and a mid-race pit stop may come into play for racers in the J&S Steel Modified division during the FedEx Ground 100.

Saturday's feature event for NASCAR Whelen All-American Series presented by Yandow Sales & Service and John Deere will run 100 green-flag laps without a scheduled break. Many past 100-lap races have counted laps run during caution periods as part of the total race distance, thereby extending fuel mileage. Races have also included a "competition caution" break near the halfway mark that would allow teams to refuel and make setup adjustments without losing position; neither will happen on Saturday night.

Race control will allow teams that make pit stops during caution periods ample time to safely refuel, but all cars that stop will be forced to give up their position and rejoin the field at the rear of the running order.

"I know I'm going to have to stop, it's just a matter of when," hometown driver Bucko Branham said. "We'll can adjust the setup, and that can work to your advantage, but it's risky coming back through traffic and passing a lot of cars. It's going to make the race more exciting, that's for sure."

Jason Durgan of Morrisonville, NY said that he knows some teams will try to go the distance without stopping, but that they may be in trouble at the end of the race.

"Caution laps don't count and that burns more fuel," Durgan said. "That alone is enough to make you worry, but you also don't have the luxury of being able to make any changes on the car if you stay out on the track. I'm sure someone is going to roll the dice and go for it."

Saturday is race day all day in Plattsburgh, with a free car show at Lenny's Shoe & Apparel on Tom Miller Road in Plattsburgh from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, followed by the opening FedEx Ground Night event at the Speedway starting at 6:00 p.m. In addition to the J&S Steel Modifieds, championship openers will be held for the Ground Round Late Model, Key R-D Trailer Sales Renegade, and Busch Beer Mini Modified divisions.

Buy-one-get-one-free general admission tickets are available at the gate for just $15 for adults, while all kids age 12 and under will be admitted free.

Airborne Park Speedway is located on Broderick Road in Plattsburgh, NY, one mile south of Exit 36 on the Interstate 87 Northway. Visitwww.airborneparkspeedway.com for more information, or call (518) 647-4444. Airborne Park Speedway is on Facebook at Facebook.com/AirborneParkSpeedway and on Twitter at @AirborneSpeed.

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2015-04-30

LES VINTAGE EN PISTE CE WEEK-END

L'arrivée des premières belle journées de la saison estivale 2015, ont incité les adeptes de sports motorisés qui ont passé l'hiver à préparer leurs montures en vue de la saison de course qui arrive à grands pas à effectuer leurs premiers tours de piste dans les prochains jours.

PRATIQUES PRÉ-SAISON

Pour ce qui est des engagés de l'Association de stock-car Vintage Québec, un événement préparatif aura lieu dès ce samedi 2 mai à l'Autodrome Chaudière de Vallée Jonction, en Beauce. Il s'agira de sessions de pratiques pour la majorité des catégories de stock car du Québec qui sont invités à participer toute la journée à compter de l'ouverture du site qui aura lieu dès 08h00. Un horaire a été établie pour chacune des organisation. Le tout sera précédé en avant-midi par une période d'inspections au cours de laquelle les officiels de la série pourront vérifier les bolides avant les sessions de pratiques. Pour l'ASCVQ les pilotes seront en piste à 6 reprises pour des sessions de 10 minutes chacune. (Voir horaire inclus)

Le public est invité à assister à cet événement au cours duquel participeront également les voitures ACT, PASS, Sportsman Lucas Oil, Limités, Sport Compactes amateurs et Élites. Le prix d'admission sera de 10$ pour tous (0-5 ans gratuits) et on pourra profiter d'un service de restauration et de Bar sur place.

PREMIÈRE COURSE DE LA SAISON À SANAIR !

Pour les pilotes de l'ASCVQ, la première course de cette 8e saison aura lieu le samedi 16 mai sur l'ovale du complexe motorisé de SANAIR de St-Pie-de Bagot. D'autres courses auront également lieu au cours de la saison. Parmi les pistes qui ont corfirmé, mentionnons l'Autodrome Chaudière (2), Riverside Speedway et une 2e à SANAIR en fin de saison. Le directeur de la série, Patrick Verner, série attend également des réponses, espérons le. Positives, des pistes de St-Eustache, St-Félicien et Montmagny. Un calendrier détaillé sera publié sous peu.

Les amateurs sont anxieux de revoir les réguliers de cette série, les Rocheleau, Verner, Caron, Gamache, Beaubien, Grenier et autres, en plus de trois ou quatre nouvelles figures dont les bolides devraient être prêts pour les premiers événements de la saison 2015.

Pour ce qui est de ce samedi, toute l'équipe de direction de l'ASCVQ sera sur place pour renouer avec leurs équipes de courses qui sont invitées à se joindre en plus grand nombre possible.

Pour toutes informations relatives¸à l'ASCVQ on peut consulter le site web au www.ascvq.org

Source: Yves Ladouceur

Photo: S.Lauwers

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2015-04-29

REVSTAR fêtera ses 7 ans en 2015 !!

Et oui, REVSTAR en sera déjà à sa 7e saison en 2015 et tous les efforts ont été mis encore une fois pour offrir le meilleur spectacle possible aux amateurs tout en s'assurant d'avoir une série accessible et conviviale pour les pilotes.

REVSTAR c'est quoi ? C'est une série de développement qui forme la relève du monde des courses en leur offrant le tremplin parfait pour amener leur passion à un niveau professionnel. C'est d'ailleurs la seule association qui permet de passer de la terre-battue, à l'asphalte et à la glace, tout ce en utilisant la même voiture.

REVSTAR, c'est également une série qui permet à ses pilotes de courir aux endroits les plus prestigieux du Québec. On peut penser aux différentes Autodromes sur Terre-Battue, au Stade Olympique, au Grand-Prix de Valcourt et à l'Hippodrome de Trois-Rivières.

Bref, REVSTAR c'est une série abordable qui permet à monsieur et madame tout le monde de pouvoir vivre sa passion au maximum, et ce en sachant que les autres pilotes possèdent exactement la même voiture, donc le niveau de compétition est très élevé et ça rend l'expérience des plus excitantes.

Pour ceux qui voudraient tenter l'expérience, sachez que la série possède des voitures qui sont prêtes à louer et ce, clés en main. Venez-vous mesurer aux différents pilotes réguliers de notre série; plaisir garanti !!

Voici ci-dessous quelques pilotes qui ont passé par la série REVSTAR au cours des années et qui sont aujourd'hui des pilotes bien établis dans le monde des courses. Plusieurs pilotes reviennent d'ailleurs courir à l'occasion avec REVSTAR grâce à la belle opportunité que cette série offre de pouvoir se battre avec les meilleurs à arme égale et tout ça, à faible coût.

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Lee USA NH Governor’s Cup Three Stars Awarded

Lee USA NH Governor's Cup Three Stars Awarded

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ACT042915-37

<ATTACHED PHOTO (IMG_5084.jpg): Franklin, NH's Matt Anderson received a Three Stars Award after a career-best day at Lee USA Speedway. (Alan Ward photo)>>

Waterbury, VT – The American Racer Three Star program is designed to recognize three teams in no particular order of performance that had outstanding races at ACT U.S. Tour events. There are no specific criteria for deciding who might receive the award of a free American Racer Tire (value $125.00), but a special effort by a team, exceptional race, just plain old hard luck, or any other accepted reason to give the award is used to decide the award recipients.

The three stars are chosen by ACT officials and will receive certificates for use of a free American Racer tire at a race of their choosing during 2015.

Lee USA Speedway - NH GOVERNOR'S CUP 150

The annual running of the New Hampshire Governor's Cup 150 was described by veteran ACT fans as an old time "barn-burner" of a race – an old-fashioned tug of war with hard racing throughout the field. Leaders battled from start to finish; veterans beat each other up; and while some new teams were smooth as silk, other new teams also beat each other up! Finding three stars was not hard as the following all delivered outstanding performances. Because the criteria for the Three Star program does not allow the top three finishers to be chosen for the awards, it should be mentioned that all three were stars in their own right. ACT Champion Wayne Helliwell Jr. scored the victory, Brad Babb had the drive of the day in second, and Eddie MacDonald was brilliant as usual. However, their top-three finishes disqualified them from the Star Awards.

*Matt Anderson, Franklin, NH - 49NH—Matt Anderson and his team are a small independent group in just their second year of touring. The team finished 17^th after staring 26^th. At first glance, perhaps those criteria might not seem to qualify for a Star of the Race Award. But after a year of following the tour, the 49NH team finished the full 150-lap battle at Lee. This was a genuine step in the right direction for their program. The positive attitude and desire to continue improving his program gives Matt and his team all the ingredients for a Star Award. Lee was a tough race, and the 49NH's finish was a testament to a short track racer who understands where his team currently is and to a team who works on their program with dedication and a great attitude. Congratulations on the Three Star Award to the Watt-sponsored team; it will be interesting to see what their next step forward will be.

*Joey Polewarczyk, Jr., Hudson, NH - 97NH—Defending ACT Champion "Joey Pole" knew exactly what he had to do to challenge for the win on Sunday. Pole saved his car when other contenders decided that weather might play into the finish and started their charge, and the team positioned themselves for a final sprint to the front. After a steady drive – and a little help from numerous cautions after halfway – the Hudson, NH team started their second half run. Joey pushed the button and was underneath the third-place car when contact took him to the infield grass. His tenacious charge from the rear of the field with 33 laps remaining to finish ninth was a masterful drive, and certainly defines what a team has to do to win titles. It might have been a disastrous day for defending his 2014 championship; instead he managed to salvage positions and points. Lee was not a throwaway event in the long grind that makes up the 2015 ACT title run for the Polewarczyk crowd; they gave up the point lead by just nine markers to race winner Wayne Helliwell Jr. Tenacity was on Joey Pole's side, and for his recovery after a terrific strategy and run, a Three Star Award is awarded to the 97NH team.

*Larry Gelinas, Buxton, ME - 91CT—Larry Gelinas drives for the Jeff Hartwell team based in Connecticut and is a seasoned veteran of New England racing. A former winner of the Oxford 250, Gelinas drives just about any and all rides that are offered to him along with his own Super Late Model. In his second year of touring with ACT, both Gelinas and the Hartwell team appear to be rising to the top. After a year of getting used to the ACT rules package, visiting a variety of tracks for the first time, and becoming comfortable with many teams they had no knowledge about, 2015 has them looking like a veteran team that may make a run. Starting 20^th on the NH Governor's Cup grid, the 91CT raced to a solid sixth-place finish. The steady drive to the front was the best of the day and showcased the experience that Gelinas has from his many turns around the Lee oval. The Connecticut team with the Maine driver is awarded a Three Star Award for their impressive ride.

Polewarczyk, Anderson, Helliwell, Babb, and the rest of the ACT Tour will be back in action this Sunday, May 3 at 1:00pm for the Merchants Bank 150 at Barre, VT's Thunder Road. Admission is $25 for adults and free for kids 12 and under. The annual Thunder Road Car Show will be held on Saturday, May 2 from 9:00am-12:00pm on Barre's Main Street, followed by the stock car parade to the track featuring the Catamount Pipe Band and an open practice for all division. This practice is free and open to the public.

For additional information contact the ACT office at 802.244.6963, media@acttour.com, or visit acttour.com or thunderroadspeedbowl.com.

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Benedict Racing Crosses the Final Items off the Pre-Season Checklist

By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

There are some things you never need to tell a racecar driver.

Whether they're taking a green flag at Daytona, Indianapolis or the local weekly short track, they'll always know the date and location of their next race. With his 2015 season underway, Danny Benedict is showing his stuff on a brand new track in a rebuilt car.

After earning his reputation and feature event wins at Kawartha and Peterborough Speedways since making the transition from go karts to stock cars, the youngster from Orono, Ontario is a regular at Sunset Speedway. The driver known as 'The Showstopper' says he's looking forward to the next challenges in his racing career.

"Dad and I made some great friends while running at Peterborough and I'm sure we'll get back there a time or 2 throughout the year," said Danny Benedict, who recently finished his first year of studies in the Powerline Technician course at Algonquin College in Ottawa. "We ran at Sunset a couple of times last season and had some decent shows. It was time to do something different, so we decided to make the change."

After running Honda Civic and Prelude Mini Stock rides in the past, the team introduced a rear-wheel drive Ford Mustang at the start of last year and while they experienced some issues early in the going, the #54 machine was turning heads at a number of different tracks before the end of the schedule. As they head into the next campaign, team owner Doug Benedict says some substantial changes were made to their equipment.

"First off, we updated the front end of the car with a new nose piece and grill work," said the driver's father. "From there, we followed some advice we got from Dan McHattie when he saw the car at Kawartha. We won some races, but the car was heavier than it needed to be. Dan showed us some areas where we could make some changes and lighten things up. When someone who has as much experience as Dan McHattie points out things to change, you pay attention. Next, it was time to get some help under the hood and former OSCAAR Super Late Model driver John Owen stepped-up to put together some reliable horsepower that'll keep us in action throughout the season."

The final touches came in the form of a bright new design for the revamped Benedict Racing piece. Sponsorship for 2015 will come from Dent Dynamics, Wallace Auto Supply - Carquest, Mayhew Graphics, Mark Rainford Auto Sales, Camsport Truck Caps & Accessories, B & W Enterprises, Kim Irwin of Irwin Tax, Baudo Auto Services, Hoy's Garage, Mayhew Auto and Clarke Motorsports Communications.

"We've been working hard; but smart since last year's final checkered flag," said Danny Benedict. "There will always be something that needs to be done, but we'll be ready to run with the leaders as soon as the car rolls out of the hauler every single week."

Photo attachment: Team supplied

With his revamped ride ready to roll, Danny Benedict is looking forward to his first season as a weekly runner in the Mini Stock division at Sunset Speedway.

Prepared by: Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

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2015-04-28

Buy-one-get-one-free

ATTACHED PHOTO: Plattsburgh's Codie Aubin is among the drivers who will look to open the Airborne Park Speedway season with a victory in the FedEx Ground 100 on Saturday night. Tickets for the event are buy-one-get-one-free for just $15.00. (Dave Brown photo)

Buy-One-Get-One-Free Tickets at Airborne Park Speedway Opener Saturday

Lenny's car show set for Saturday morning; nearly 50 teams at pre-season practice

For Immediate Release APS-042715-1

PLATTSBURGH, NY – Airborne Park Speedway is just days away from its first green flag on FedEx Ground Night, Saturday, May 2at 6:00 p.m., and the fans will be the biggest winners. The track has created a buy-one-get-one-free ticket promotion for opening night for just $15, with kids age 12 under admitted free.

In addition, Lenny's Shoe & Apparel on Tom Miller Road in Plattsburgh will host a free car show on Saturday morning from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon for fans to meet drivers and see the cars up close before the engines rev up for racing. Votes will be tallied for Best Appearing Car awards across all four classes of the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series (NWAAS) presented by Yandow Sales & Service and John Deere, with award winners to be announced at the Speedway that evening.

The opening event on Saturday nightwill be highlighted by a special 100-lap feature for the J&S Steel Modifieds, with green flag qualifying action beginning at 6:00 p.m. Many of the top Modified drivers were among nearly 50 total race teams at a pre-season practice session on April 25, including multi-time champions Nick Heywood, Leon Gonyo, and Bucko Branham, 2014 Rookie of the Year Jayson Criss, Canadian racers Eric Lauziere and David Bourgeois, and impressive rookies Danny Sullivan and Jamy Begor.

The Key R-D Trailer Sales Renegade division is poised for one of its strongest seasons in recent memory, giving champion Robert Gordon plenty of competition. Rookie of the Year Zack Daniels was strong at the test session, as were Shawn Duquette, brothers Jon and Ryan Boutin, Jim McKiernan, cousins Dylan and Zach Rabtoy, and returning former champion Richie Turner.

The Busch Beer Mini-Modifieds will crown a new champion in 2015 and saw solid practice runs from Pete Blaney, Tim LaFountain, Dale O'Neil, sophomore Tyler Irwin, and the returning Kris Clark among others.

The Ground Round Late Models drew top runners Bobby Therrien, Josh Masterson, former Devil's Bowl Speedway and Thunder Road champion Jamie Fisher, and Rookie of the Year Kevin Boutin among the practice participants, indicating solid talent as the division begins its second year of reintroduction at Airborne.

Airborne Park Speedway's 62^nd season of stock car racing kicks off with a free car show at Lenny's Shoe & Apparel on Tom Miller Road in Plattsburgh, NY from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon on Saturday, May 2, followed by the opening race event at the Speedway at 6:00 p.m. Buy-one-get-one-free general admission tickets are just $15 for adults, while all kids age 12 and under will be admitted free.

Airborne is located on Broderick Road in Plattsburgh, NY, one mile south of Exit 36 on the Interstate 87 Northway. Visit www.airborneparkspeedway.com for more information, or call (518) 647-4444. Airborne Park Speedway is on Facebook at Facebook.com/AirborneParkSpeedway and on Twitter at @AirborneSpeed.

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Contact: Justin St. Louis, Media Director Email: info@airborneparkspeedway.com

Cell Phone: (802) 355-3282 Track Information Line: (518) 647-4444

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Enduro 200, ce dimanche 3 mai à l’Autodrome St-Eustache

Enduro 200, ce dimanche 3 mai à l'Autodrome St-Eustache

Alors que l'action a débuté depuis bientôt 2 semaines sur la piste d'accélération du complexe sport motorisé des Basses Laurentides, c'est du côté de la piste ovale que les compétitions débuteront dimanche prochain, le 3 mai avec la présentation de la traditionnelle course printanière d'endurance de 200 tours de voitures 4-6-8 cylindres de 101 pouces d'empattement et plus.

Plusieurs pilotes des quatre coins du Québec sont attendus pour se livrer une lutte des plus endiablées, notamment le champion NASCAR du Québec, Jean-François Bouvrette, spécialiste de ce genre d'épreuve. Les dépassements, les carambolages, les manœuvres spectaculaires et sensations fortes, sauront tenir les amateurs en haleine pendant les 200 tours de cette épreuve devenue épique au fil des ans.

Les puits ouvriront dès 9h00, les essais solos 10h00 et le signal de départ est prévu pour 14h00.
L'admission est de 20$ pour les adultes en «admission générale», tandis que les 13 à 17 ans y seront admis pour 10$ et gratuit pour les enfants de 12 ans et moins si accompagnés d'un adulte.

L'accès dans les puits est de 25$ pour tous les groupes d'âge.

Pour les participants, l'inscription pour la voiture et quatre (4) personnes est de 120$, incluant l'accès dans les puits.

À moins de quelques semaines du début des activités officielles le 23 mai prochain, regroupant les divisions NASCAR Sportsman Lucas Oil, NASCAR Sport Compacte MRQ, NASCAR Légende Modifiée, Challenge 4 Meilleur Ramoneur, la série ACT-LMS Québec ainsi que la nouvelle division 358 Modifié, il s'agit d'une belle occasion de se plonger dans l'atmosphère des courses sur ovale en assistant à cette épreuve d'endurance pré saison.

Pour connaître tous les détails et obtenir plus d'informations sur les activités de la saison 2015 de l'Autodrome St-Eustache, consultez le Autodrome.ca ou la page Facebook Stock Car Montréal.

Source : Justin Beaudin pour Autodrome St-Eustache

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2015-04-27

Dan McHattie Signs on for the Inaugural APC Pro Late Model Series Season

By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

In the dictionary, success is defined as 'obtain a favourable or desired outcome'. When it comes to asphalt Late Model stock car racing in Central Ontario, Dan McHattie is as effective as they come. You might even go as far as saying he wrote the book on short track motorsports excellence.

With 8 track championships over 12 seasons and nearly every record in the history of Kawartha Speedway, multiple main event wins and Autumn Colours Classic victories at Peterborough Speedway, the 38 year old father of 2 from Cavan, Ontario is getting ready to make his debut with the new APC Pro Late Model Series. After running a limited schedule over the past 2 seasons, McHattie says he's looking forward to put his equipment through its paces for a complete calendar of events.

"I love the sport, but have to admit that unless I'm sitting at the controls and battling through the pack for the win, I'm not much of a race fan," said the mechanic at Kerr Industries in Oshawa. "I get a lot out designing and building the cars that I race and help drivers in other divisions, but it isn't often that you'll find me sitting the grandstand watching the show."

The #71 Dodge that McHattie will campaign on the provinces most talked about racing series is the product of hours of hard work, research and development. With an RPM Engines powerplant strapped between the frame rails, the driver and his crew of Colin Winslow, Gerry McHattie, Jim Enborg, Kevin Caldwell and Jake Jackson are looking forward to running the 8 event schedule that gets underway Saturday, May 23^rd at Sunset Speedway.

"I think there'll be a strong field at every show, so we'll need to make sure our equipment is set to go as soon as we roll off the trailer," said McHattie. "Our team's success over the years has always come from preparation. There's very little down-time where this team is concerned. A strong effort behind the scenes and at the track always has its own reward."

Dan McHattie says he's happy to have had a strong group of area businesses support his program over the years and his debut on the APC Pro Late Model Series will be backed by J.J. Stewart Motors, Uniglass Plus Ziebart, Sidey/NAPA Auto Supply, Douglas Automotive, Barry McClennan Masonry, Foxon Alternator & Starter, Webb Transmission and Praxair Peterborough.

"The names that people see on our car are more than sponsors," said McHattie. "They're friends who've been part of the team for a number of seasons and that makes them family. We're proud to have everyone be part of what we do."

Photo attachment: Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

Multi-time Kawartha Speedway track champion and former Peterborough Speedway Autumn Colours Classic winner Dan McHattie is ready for the APC Pro Late Model Series. The tour begins Saturday, May 23^rdat Sunset Speedway.

Prepared by: Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

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2015-04-26

Helliwell Shows The Way at Lee USA Governor’s Cup

Helliwell Shows The Way at Lee USA Governor's Cup

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ACT042615-35

<<ATTACHED PHOTO (VLF_8678.jpg): Dover, NH's Wayne Helliwell Jr. celebrates his eighth career American-Canadian Tour victory in the New Hampshire Governor's Cup 150 at Lee USA Speedway. (Eric LaFleche/VLFPhotos.com photo)

Lee, NH — Wayne Helliwell Jr. came out on top of a battle with fellow home track driver Eddie MacDonald to win the American-Canadian Tour (ACT) New Hampshire Governor's Cup 150 at Lee USA Speedway in Lee, NH.

Helliwell took the lead from MacDonald for the final time on a lap 117 restart following a caution for defending champion Joey Polewarczyk Jr.'s spin entering turn 3. The Dover, NH driver then held off McDonald and Maine youngster Brad Babb on two ensuing restarts to win his first Tour race at the 3/8-mile oval and eighth overall.

"We were able to cool our tires down and just crowd (MacDonald) down on that restart," said Helliwell, who unofficially assumed the point lead following the event. "That helped us get the momentum and the drive up off the turn. Once we got to the lead, we were able to just keep the car on the bottom and roll around.

"This win definitely means a lot," the two-time ACT Tour Champion added. "This was a great day. From where we started off in practice yesterday with a motor skip and all sorts of issues, to end up in victory lane is great."

Helliwell started on the pole and led the first 77 circuits, holding off a pack that included Jeff White, MacDonald, Rowland Robinson Jr., Nick Sweet, and Rich Dubeau. Winthrop, ME's White edged ahead of Helliwell on a lap 78 restart, but Helliwell dove back underneath him four laps later.

With rain threatening in the area, Rowley, MA's MacDonald made his move, driving around the outside of Helliwell to take the lead on lap 93. Unwilling to surrender, Helliwell got to MacDonald's outside and the two swapped the lead multiple times over the ensuing circuits. Polewarczyk's misfortune, the seventh of nine cautions that slowed the event, setting up Helliwell's winning pass.

Babb got underneath MacDonald on the final restart, but was unable to chase down Helliwell and settled for second. MacDonald came in third, followed by defending Série ACT Champion Alex Labbe and Travis Fadden. Larry Gelinas, White, Kyle Welch, Polewarczyk, and Sweet completed the top-10.

Heat race wins went to Fadden, Babb, and MacDonald. Travis Stearns won the consolation race.

The ACT Tour heads to Barre, VT's Thunder Road for the 17^th annual Merchants Bank 150 on Sunday, May 3. Post time is 1:00pm. The annual Thunder Road Car Show will be held on Saturday, May 2 from 9:00am-12:00pm followed by the stock car parade to the track.

For more information contact the ACT office at 802.244.6963, media@acttour.com, or visit www.acttour.com.

ACT NEW HAMPSHIRE GOVERNOR'S CUP 150

UNOFFICIAL RESULTS

Pos Start Pos Driver Hometown Laps

( 1 ) Wayne Helliwell Jr. , Dover, NH , 150 Laps
( 7 ) Brad Babb , Windham, ME , 150 Laps
( 3 ) Eddie MacDonald , Rowley, MA , 150 Laps
( 10 ) Alex Labbe , St-Albert, QC , 150 Laps
( 6 ) Travis Fadden , No. Haverhill, NH , 150 Laps
( 20 ) Larry Gelinas , Buxton, ME , 150 Laps
( 2 ) Jeff White , Winthrop, ME , 150 Laps
( 14 ) Kyle Welch , Newport, NH , 150 Laps
( 12 ) Joey Polewarczyk Jr. , Hudson, NH , 150 Laps
( 5 ) Nick Sweet , Barre, VT , 150 Laps
( 4 ) #Rich Dubeau , Plainfield, NH , 150 Laps
( 16 ) Corey Mason , Groveton, NH , 150 Laps
( 8 ) Rowland Robinson, Jr. , Steuben, ME , 150 Laps
( 17 ) Travis Stearns , Auburn, ME , 150 Laps
( 9 ) Emily Packard , E. Montpelier, VT , 150 Laps
( 18 ) Todd Davis , Claremont, NH , 150 Laps
( 26 ) Matt Anderson , Franklin, NH , 150 Laps
( 11 ) Brandon Atkins , AuSable Forks, NY , 149 Laps
( 21 ) Aaron Fellows , Croyden, NH , 141 Laps
( 19 ) James Linardy , Somerville, MA , 121 Laps
( 27 ) Mike Ziter , Barre Town, VT , 93 Laps
( 23 ) Tom Carey Jr. , New Salem, MA , 93 Laps
( 24 ) Mike Bailey , S. Barre, VT , 81 Laps
( 22 ) A.J. Panessiti , Barnstead, NH , 71 Laps
( 25 ) Miles Chipman , Nottingham, NH , 53 Laps
( 15 ) Jimmy Hebert , Williamstown, VT , 42 Laps
( 13 ) Dave Farrington, Jr. , Jay, ME , 28 Laps

Lap Leaders: Wayne Helliwell Jr., 1-77; Jeff White, 78-81; Wayne Helliwell Jr., 82-92; Eddie MacDonald, 93-106; Wayne Helliwell Jr., 107-109; Eddie MacDonald, 110-117; Wayne Helliwell Jr., 118-150 (6 lead changes among 3 drivers)

Time of Race: 1:17:02 Margin of Victory: 0.426 seconds

Cautions: 9 (laps 28, 42, 53, 77, 93, 93, 117, 120, 121)

Heat Winners: Travis Fadden, Brad Babb, Eddie MacDonald

Consi Winners: Travis Stearns

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2015-05-04

Steve Bernard et Mathieu Desjardins a la défense de leur titre.

2015-05-02

Helliwell, ACT Tour Take on Local Stars in Merchants Bank 150

2015-05-01

Graham Racing Puts the Final Touches on a Busy 2015 Agenda

Spencer Davis Eyes PASS South And KOMA Modified Double At Kingsport

Teams Preparing for Pit Strategy in Modified Opener at Airborne Park Speedway

2015-04-30

LES VINTAGE EN PISTE CE WEEK-END

2015-04-29

REVSTAR fêtera ses 7 ans en 2015 !!

Lee USA NH Governor’s Cup Three Stars Awarded

Benedict Racing Crosses the Final Items off the Pre-Season Checklist

2015-04-28

Buy-one-get-one-free

Enduro 200, ce dimanche 3 mai à l’Autodrome St-Eustache

2015-04-27

Dan McHattie Signs on for the Inaugural APC Pro Late Model Series Season

2015-04-26

Helliwell Shows The Way at Lee USA Governor’s Cup

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