2012-05-09

AUTODROME GRANBY - FEU VERT SAISON 2012

Un nombre record de 117 voitures étaient en piste pour la journée des pratiques de samedi dernier. Une belle journée pour les nombreux amateurs heureux de revoir leurs idoles.

Le plus important évènement jamais présenté au Québec prendra place vendredi et samedi les 11 et 12 mai. Pour une première fois à l'Autodrome Granby, 5 associations de Sprint Car seront en piste et lutteront pour remporter l'épreuve et la bourse de $ 5000.00. C’est un montant total de $ 85 000.00 en bourse qui sera remis aux pilotes qui participent aux différentes épreuves. Les meilleurs pilotes de la série Empire Super Sprint, Sprint Car of New England, Southern Ontario Sprint,Corr Pak Sprint et Patriot Sprint Tour s'affronteront sur le circuit de 1/2 mile. 40 pilotes ont déjà confirmé leur présence. L'homme à battre est Shane Stewart (21), il a remporté à 3 reprises le Knoxville 360. Il a terminé 2^e en 410 la plus prestigieuse course de Sprint. Stewart a même remporté une victoire en Australie. A 34 ans, il a mérité plus de 90 victoires en 13 ans de carrière. Glenn Styres (0) sera en piste, il a mérité une victoire en Floride en février dernier. Il a remporté 4 championnats avec les Southern Ontario Sprint. M. Styres est le propriétaire de la piste d’Ohsweken en Ontario. Dain Naida (07x) sera aussi en piste. Jessica Zemken qui est toujours très bien accueillie à Granby nous a confirmé sa présence. Bryan Holland et Jared Zimbardi ont aussi confirmé leur présence. Nos talentueux pilotes locaux vont tout tenter pour vous en mettre plein la vue. Steve Poirier ( 28 FM), Alain Bergeron ( 8 B), Michael Parent ( 25), Lee Ladouceur et plusieurs autres seront de la compétition. Une finale de 20 tours sera présentée vendredi tandis que samedi les Sprint s'élanceront pour 30 tours.

Les Modifié seront en piste, le talentueux pilote Nascar, Andrew Ranger aura l'honneur de piloter un bolide préparé par l'équipe de l'équipe de Mario Clair. 26 voitures étaient présentes lors des pratiques de samedi dernier 3 nouveaux pilotes sont admissibles au titre de recrue 2012. Le champion défendant François Bernier ( 49) fera tout en son possible pour conserver son titre. Plusieurs pilotes comme les Clair, les Therrien, Robidoux, Brouillard, Boisvert, Bernard, Bussière, Gougeon, Boissonneault, Ledoux, Whitteker et plusieurs autres tenteront de remporter le championnat 2012. À vous de faire vos prédictions, plusieurs pilotes pourraient nous surprendre.

Les nombreux pilotes Sportsman seront aussi en piste vendredi pour une finale de 25 tours, ils étaient 30 voitures lors des pratiques dont 7 pilotes recrues. Les 4 et 6 cylindres s'affronteront aussi vendredi lors d'une finale de 15 tours.

De nouveaux visages se sont ajoutés à la catégorie Prostock, ils seront en piste samedi pour une épreuve de 25 tours. Les nombreux pilotes Lightning Sprint partageront aussi la vedette samedi avec une finale de 20 tours.

Une fin de semaine inoubliable vous attend en ce début de saison. Le prix d'entrée est fixé à 25.00 $ pour vendredi et 30.00 $ pour samedi. Les étudiants de moins de 18 ans avec carte d'identité seront admis gratuitement à chaque programme de la saison 2012.

Venez célébrer avec nous, le début d'une saison très chargée à l'Autodrome Granby, c'est un rendez-vous à ne pas manquer. Le plus gros spectacle de Sprint Car au Québec se déroulera à Granby en fin de semaine.

Josée Lyse Poisson

Relationniste Autodrome Granby

( www.autodrome-granby.com)

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Two NASCAR Nationwide Series Crew Chiefs Fined; Crew Chiefs, Car Chiefs Placed On Probation For Infractions At Talladega Superspeedway

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (May 8, 2012) – NASCAR announced today that two NASCAR Nationwide Series crew chiefs had been fined and placed on probation for violations during this past weekend’s event at Talladega Superspeedway. In addition, the teams’ respective car chiefs have also been placed on probation for the remainder of the year.

Crew chiefs Jeremy Bullins (No. 22 team) and Chad Walter (No. 12 team) have each been fined $10,000 and placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31. Additionally, the teams’ respective car chiefs – Thomas Clavette (No. 22) and Raymond Fox (No. 12) – have been placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31.

The rules violations referred to Sections 12-1 (actions detrimental to stock car racing); 12-4J (any determination by NASCAR officials that the race equipment used in the event does not conform to NASCAR rules detailed in Section 20-A of the rule book); 20A-2.1E (streamlining of the contours of the car, beyond what is approved by the series director will not be permitted. Installation of air directional devices, underpans, baffles, shields or the like beneath the car or the car’s hood and fender area, front firewall, floor, rear firewall area, rear deck and quarter panel will not be permitted. If, in the judgment of NASCAR officials, any part or component of the car not previously approved by NASCAR has been installed or modified to enhance aerodynamic performance, will not be permitted. All cars must remain standard in appearance); 20A-3.10A (front upper bumper cover must be from the respective OEM manufacturer and must be approved by NASCAR. The front lower bumper cover and rear bumper cover must be from an approved manufacturer and must be approved by NASCAR. Once approved, the front lower bumper covers may be used on all approved models. NASCAR officials may use bumper covers provided by the respective manufacturer as a guide in determining whether a competitor’s bumper cover conforms to the specifications of the NASCAR rule book. Unless otherwise authorized by the series director, cutting and reshaping of bumper covers will not be permitted.)

The infractions were discovered during opening day inspection on May 3.

Contact:

Kerry Tharp

NASCAR Integrated Marketing Communications

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Airborne Late Models face Canadian invasion

For immediate release – Airborne Speedway – May 8, 2012

South Plattsburgh, NY – It’s more laps, more money and more competition for Airborne’s J&S Steel Limited Late Models this Saturday night, May 12 when TD Bank presents the opening round of the six-race USA/Canada Master Series.

Defending track champion Robin Wood, last week’s feature winner Jamy Begor, Shawn Duquette and Bucko Branham are among the Airborne frontrunners who will test the best from Autodrome St-Eustache in a 50-lap, $1,000-to-win event.

Branham, the winningest Airborne driver of the last decade, came out on top when the Canadian teams made their first-ever appearance on the Plattsburgh half-mile last fall.

This year, the USA/Canada competition has been expanded into a six-race series – three races at each track – that carries a combined purse and point fund of over $40,000.

The first two Airborne Limited Late Model Masters Series events are 50 laps. The third Airborne event, Saturday, August 4, will utilize the “4-20’s” format, which combines the finishes of four 20-lap sprints. The first two Canadian events, slated for Saturday, May 19 and Saturday July 21, are 75 laps. The “Shootout” finale is 125 laps with competition yellows on lap 50 and lap 100.

“Speaking with our 2011 track champion Maxim Pelletier and many of our other drivers, I know that our guys enjoyed racing at Airborne very much last September,” Autodrome St-Eustache promoter Alan Labrosse said. “The Airborne events are point races towards our track championship, so you can be sure there will be plenty of our teams at Plattsburgh.”

Gates open Saturday at 3 p.m. Qualifying action begins at 5 p.m. Admission is $15/adults, kids 12 and under free.

Contact: Tom Herzig

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Polewarczyk Picked Top 25 in Speed 51 Short Track Draft

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ACT-050812-28

Attached Photo: JoeyPolewarczykJr.jpg – Joey Polewarczyk, Jr. fights for the lead with Wayne Helliwell, Jr. during the late stages of the ACT Spring Green 112 at Devil’s Bowl Speedway on Sunday, May 6. (Photo by Leif Tillotson)

Waterbury, VT – Speed51.com, a national racing news site, has named American Canadian Tour star Joey Polewarczyk, Jr. of Hudson, NH one of the top 25 short track drivers in the country according to their 2012 Short Track Draft. This marks the third year in a row that Polewarczyk has made the prestigious list.

The racing news website touted Pole’s resume on the ACT tour stating ”Pole has won countless races in the American Canadian Tour Late Models that dominate parts of the Northeast. The series is very challenging and offers a strong front to build off of as 30-plus cars show up to run each week, with the bigger shows drawing 40 or more with international flavor.”

Polewarczyk, who is coming off of a strong second place finish at Devil’s Bowl Speedway last weekend, was ecstatic to hear the news.

“That list is everybody in the country really, so it means a lot. To be on the same list of drivers with guys like Bubba Pollard and all those guys, 25^th is really an honor. It really speaks for our team. It’s not just good for me, it’s good for everybody,” said Polewarczyk.

When asked about how it changes his confidence level for the rest of 2012, he stood by his team. “Honestly it doesn’t change anything. This whole year we’ve been looking at races differently. I feel like every race this year we’ve had a shot at winning. At Lee I made a mistake, at Thunder Road we pitted at the wrong time, and we were so close at Devil’s Bowl. Our team looks good, everyone is happy. We just go out there every week to try to win those races.“

Polewarczyk will continue his journey to becoming the next American Canadian Tour Champion at Oxford Plains Speedway in Oxford, ME for the Oxford 150 on Sunday, May 20. Post time 1:00.

For additional information, head to www.acttour.com or contact us at media@acttour.com or call the office at (802) 244-6963.

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Signature d'un partenariat majeur avec WeatherTech Canada pour la saison 2012

LOUIS-PHILIPPE DUMOULIN

Signature d’un partenariat majeur avec WeatherTech Canada pour la saison 2012

Trois-Rivières, le 9 mai 2012 – L’Équipe de course Dumoulin Compétition annonce un partenariat majeur entre le pilote Louis-Philippe Dumoulin et WeatherTech Canada pour la saison 2012 en série NASCAR Canadian Tire. Détenteur du titre de recrue de l’année 2011 de cette série, la performance, la passion et la persévérance permettent à Louis-Philippe Dumoulin de concrétiser ce nouveau partenariat et de participer à l’ensemble du championnat de la saison 2012.

LOUIS-PHILIPPE DUMOULIN

Signing of a Major Partnership with WeatherTech Canada 2012 Season

Trois-Rivieres, May 9^th, 2012 – The Dumoulin Competition Racing team announces its major partnership between racer Louis-Philippe Dumoulin and WeatherTech Canada for the 2012 NASCAR Canadian Tire season. Titled 2011 Rookie of the Year for the series, performance, passion and perseverance lead Louis-Philippe Dumoulin to continue his progression within the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series through the development of this new partnership, allowing him to compete in the full calendar of the NCTS.

« Quel plaisir de se retrouver dans un contexte professionnel où les visions, valeurs de WeatherTech Canada rejoignent les miennes et celles de Dumoulin Compétition. Ce partenariat permet de poursuivre l’atteinte de notre objectif. » mentionne Louis-Philippe Dumoulin.

WeatherTech Canada conçoit, développe des accessoires automobiles haut de gamme et sur mesure pour les consommateurs et les manufacturiers. Ils fabriquent et manufacturent digitalement des tapis de voiture toutes saisons, tapis de protection arrière ainsi que des garde-boues (sans vis), aux États-Unis, pour tous types de véhicules en Amérique du Nord. Les ingénieurs utilisent les outils les plus sophistiqués disponibles pour la saisie des données et la géométrie complexe des véhicules, telles que les surfaces au sol, les zones de rangement, les ouvertures de fenêtre ou les ailes (standards de qualité optimale).

« Nous, WeatherTech Canada, sommes emballés du partenariat avec Dumoulin Compétition, ce sera une excellente saison de course. L’expérience et l’enthousiasme de Louis-Philippe sont une plus value pour l’équipe WeatherTech », partage Tony Page, président de WeatherTech Canada.

Dumoulin Compétition passe à une autre étape qui nécessite un support spécialisé pour la préparation des voitures. « Après trois ans de participation en série NASCAR Canadian Tire, nous sommes prêts à faire le championnat et nous sommes conscients qu'on ne peut pas le faire tout seul. La voiture n°47 WeatherTech Canada / Bellemare sera préparée par l’équipe de Scott Steckly », mentionne l’instructeur de pilotage. Les premiers essais sur circuits routiers ont eu lieu le 1^er mai dernier au Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (Mosport), ils poursuivront les essais au même endroit le 10 mai prochain.

Louis-Philippe Dumoulin, spécialiste des circuits routiers, a participé aux trois dernières courses de la saison sur circuit ovale l’an dernier (Barrie, Ont – Antigonish, N.-S. – Kawartha, Ont.) au volant d’une voiture modifiée et très peu adaptée pour ce genre d’épreuve. Le Québécois souligne que « la préparation spécifique de la voiture d’ovale n°47 WeatherTech Canada / Bellemare sera l’opportunité d’optimiser la technique propre à ce type de piste ».

Jean-François Dumoulin est fier supporteur de son frère et de sa ténacité, propre à la famille Dumoulin. « Nous avons tous travaillé fort depuis 2009 pour trouver du financement et faire une saison complète en série. C'est le résultat d'un travail d'équipe sans relâche », partage l’aîné des frères Dumoulin. Sa participation aux côtés de son frère est confirmée pour les épreuves du Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières (3, 4 et 5 août 2012) ainsi qu’au Napa Pièces d’auto 200 de Montréal (16, 17 et 18 août 2012).

Louis-Philippe Dumoulin participera à la première épreuve de la saison lors du Victoria Day SpeedFest du 18 au 20 mai prochain sur le circuit de Mosport (Canadian Tire Motorsport Park).

« J’ai vraiment hâte de commencer la saison à Mosport avec la voiture de haut calibre n°47 WeatherTech Canada / Bellemare, je suis certain qu’on pourra offrir de bonnes performances», mentionne Louis-Philippe Dumoulin.

La famille Dumoulin ainsi que toute l’équipe Dumoulin Compétition souhaitent renouveler son appréciation du soutien inconditionnel de tous – partenaires, famille, amis, fans et médias – indispensable à la poursuite du leitmotiv :

« Passion – Performance – Partenariats»

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« What a pleasure to be in a professional context where WeatherTech’s visions and values join mine and those of Dumoulin Competition. This partnership comes at a perfect time, for Dumoulin Competition to pursue its ascension to the top - following last year’s Rookie of the Year Title - of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series. » says Louis-Philippe Dumoulin.

WeatherTech Canada designs, develops and produces high quality digitally custom fitted FloorLiners, All Weather Floor Mats, Cargo Liners and No-Drill Mudflaps in the USA on North American machinery for customers and manufacturers. Engineers use the newest technology available for the data entry and the geometric complexity required by the vehicles for floor surface coverings, storage areas, aisles and window openings (superior quality standards).

« We at WeatherTech Canada are very excited to be partnering with Dumoulin Competition and look forward to a great race season! LP's racing experience and enthusiasm makes him the perfect addition to the WeatherTech team.», shared Tony Page, President of WeatherTech Canada.

Dumoulin Competition moves to another stage which necessitates a specialized support team for the car preparation. « After three years of participating in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, we are ready to take on the championship, we are also aware of the fact that we cannot achieve this alone. The n°47 WeatherTech Canada / Bellemare car will be prepared by Scott Steckly’s team», mentioned the racing instructor. The first road course trial runs took place on May 1^st at the Canadian Tire Mosport Park (Mosport) and will continue at the same track on May 10^th.

Louis-Philippe Dumoulin, a road circuit specialist, participated in the last three oval races of the season (Barrie, Ont – Antigonish, N.-S. – Kawartha, Ont.) at the wheel of a car minimally adapted for this type of circuit. The Quebecer underlines that « the specific preparation required for the n°47 WeatherTech Canada / Bellemare oval car will allow us to develop the proper techniques for this type of circuit ».

Jean-Francois Dumoulin is a proud supporter of his brother, for his tenacity a quality specific to the Dumoulin family. « Since 2009, we have worked very hard to find funds that would allow us to do a complete season in this series. This is the result of endless dedicated work », shares the eldest of the brothers. Participations at his brothers’ side have been confirmed for the Grand Prix of Trois-Rivieres (August 3^rd, 4^th and 5^th 2012) as well as the Napa Auto Parts 200 of Montreal (August 16^th, 17^th and 18^th 2012).

Louis-Philippe Dumoulin will be participating in the first event of the season during the Victoria Day SpeedFest, May 18^th to 20^th at the Mosport Circuit (Canadian Tire Mosport Park).

« I am very eager to begin the season at Mosport with the high-end n°47 WeatherTech Canada / Bellemare car, I am sure that we will offer great performances », mentions Louis-Philippe Dumoulin.

The Dumoulin Family as well as the entire Dumoulin Competition team wish to renew their appreciation for the unconditional support offered by all – partners, families, friends, fans and medias – essential for our leitmotiv:

« Passion – Performance – Partnerships»

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Luke Hinkley Solidly Among ACT Leaders

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – 5.8.12
For more information, visit http://www.crazyhorseracingparts.com or E-Mail GWCNewEngland@gmail.com

Back-To-Back Top-10 Finishes Have Second-Year Driver Rolling

CLAREMONT, N.H. – At the end of a long day of practice at Thunder Road International Speedbowl two weeks ago, Luke Hinkley was noticeably frustrated.

The Claremont, N.H., driver had thrown everything he could think of at his No. 31 R.E. Hinkley Oil Dodge Charger to no avail. Nothing was making the car circle the peculiar quarter-mile any more efficiently. If Hinkley had a kitchen sink at his disposal, he probably would have thrown that at the ill-tempered car, too.

So, Hinkley made a phone call across the Green Mountains to Mitch Green, and in the middle of the night, Green offered up some advice. That advice turned Hinkley's team around 180 degrees – turning the No. 31 from a car that simply wouldn't go to one that most of the other ACT Late Model Tour teams couldn't keep up with when practice resumed the next morning.

“The knowledge level up there (at Crazy Horse Racing) is huge for us, especially now with this ACT Tour deal,” said Hinkley, 29, in his first full ACT season. “Look at that race at Thunder Road. We were 35th or 37th in practice all day on Saturday, and I called Mitch that night him and told him I'd done everything I could think of to do to it.

“Then he told me to make some changes that went against the way I would have ever thought – and we were so fast on Sunday. It was unbelievable.”

Hinkley went out and finished second in his qualifying heat and ended up posting a season-best finish of seventh in the Merchants Bank 150. He followed that by finishing 10th in last weekend's Spring Green 112 at Devil's Bowl Speedway, part of a banner day that saw three Crazy Horse Racing chassis finish inside the Top-10.

With his first career back-to-back Top-10 finishes in ACT competition, Hinkley sits sixth in the Tour standings heading into this weekend's off-weekend. He's qualified for all three ACT events in 2012 and hasn't finished outside the Top-15.

“That's one of the biggest things about the Tour is that we haven't been to a lot of the tracks that we're racing at this year,” said Hinkley, who got his start racing Mini Sprint cars on dirt as a teenager. “We had never been to Lee (USA Speedway, site of the season opener last month) before, and at Thunder Road I only had limited experience. We go to Oxford next, and I've never been there, either, or to any of the tracks in Canada.

“It's especially tough when you look at the amount of competition on that Tour. I honestly believe there are 10-15 teams each week that can win a race and have a shot each and every time. There's a lot of young kids and older veterans. It takes every little thing to win at that level.”

Hinkley dabbled in the ACT Tour in 2011, running a half-dozen events and posting a career-best finish of fourth on his home track of Twin State Speedway. He's running a Crazy Horse Racing chassis originally built for Brian Hoar – the same car Hoar drove to the 2009 ACT championship.

Having the support of the chassis builder has helped Hinkley and his relatively new team – they've only been together for three years – get up to speed sooner rather than later. In 2010, Hinkley won two Late Model features at Twin State.

“I've worked with a few different chassis builders over the years, and (Crazy Horse) is the best. They're just all great people,” Hinkley said. “You can call any of them, it doesn't matter what time, and they'll walk you through things. They'll always help you. That's been big for me.”

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2012-05-08

COMME GILLES VILLENEUVE EN 1976, CAMIRAND ÉLECTRISERA PAU GRÂCE AU GP3R

[Trois-Rivières, le 8 mai 2012] ― Sept juin 1976. Un pilote Québécois prometteur dispute une première course en Europe en s'alignant sur la grille de départ au Grand Prix de Pau, en France, grâce à l'appui du Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières, près de chez lui, un événement où il ne cesse de s'illustrer. Onze mai 2012.

Un autre pilote Québécois prometteur, lui aussi dominant dans les rues de la cité de Laviolette, prendra le départ de sa première course en Europe, également à Pau, toujours grâce à l'appui du Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières. Ces deux histoires sont similaires mais une différence majeure les démarque. Si Gilles Villeneuve avait pris le volant d'une March-Ford 752 qui l'a laissé tomber quand son moteur à essence s'est mis à surchauffer au 13e tour de l'épreuve qui en comptait 73, Marc-Antoine Camirand, lui, comptera sur une mécanique d'avant-garde qui avance grâce à une énergie propre, l'Andros Car Evo 2 entièrement électrique.

C'est dans le but de souligner le 30e anniversaire du départ de Gilles Villeneuve que le Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières renoue avec sa mission de permettre aux pilotes de talent d'ici de se faire remarquer ailleurs en envoyant Marc-Antoine Camirand disputer le deuxième Grand Prix entièrement électrique de l'histoire, dans les rues de Pau, en France. «Avec les liens historiques qui lient Gilles Villeneuve, le Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières et le Grand Prix de Pau, il était tout naturel de souligner le départ de Gilles grâce à une telle initiative, explique Dominic Fugère, directeur général du GP3R.

Avec un CV vierge de toute course européenne malgré un CV garni de succès dont son record de neuf victoires chez nous, Marc-Antoine s'est imposé comme le meilleur candidat pour nous représenter.» Bien entendu, le GP3R y trouve aussi son compte. Pour la deuxième année consécutive, le Grand Prix de Pau est l'hôte du seul Grand Prix entièrement électrique au monde. La venue de Camirand à Pau s'inscrit comme une importante étape pour amener le Trophée Andros Électrique

«Avec la réputation mondiale du Québec en matière de développement durable et, surtout, d'hydroélectricité, c'est tout naturel que le premier Grand Prix électrique en Amérique se tienne chez nous, ajoute Fugère. Sans compter que ça nous permettrait de renouer avec l'enviable slogan que nous avons longtemps porté : Unique en Amérique.»

La députée de Trois-Rivières à l'Assemblée nationale Danielle Saint-Amand a chaleureusement salué la démarche. «Nous nous devons d'appuyer de telles initiatives qui permettent à nos talents comme Marc-Antoine et aux évènements de chez-nous comme le GP3R de se faire remarquer sur la scène internationale, explique madame Saint-Amand. Si, en plus, nous pouvons faire progresser le dossier pour que le Québec et la Mauricie puissent consolider leur position de leader en matière d'innovation électrique avec le premier Grand Prix électrique en Amérique, ça devient un incontournable. » Le maire de Trois-Rivières Yves Lévesque s'est dit extrêmement fier. «Ce pas en avant accompagné d'un clin d'oeil au passé souligne très bien l'importance de Gilles Villeneuve dans l'histoire du Grand Prix et même celle de Trois-Rivières, a dit monsieur Lévesque.

Je suis certain que Marc-Antoine saura connaître autant de succès à Pau qu'il en a eu chez nous. C'est toute la ville qui bénéficiera du prestige de sa présence en France. » En plus de payer un volant à Camirand à Pau, le GP3R a dévoilé un autre modeste salut à Gilles Villeneuve qui a couru sous la Porte Duplessis pour la dernière fois en 1977, il y a 35 ans. En collaboration avec le Musée Gilles-Villeneuve, le GP3R offrira aux restaurateurs de la région la chance d'ajouter à leur carte des vins le Ventisette, un vin de Toscane de la maison Renzo Masi importé spécialement pour le 30e anniversaire de départ de Villeneuve.

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2012-05-07

Grogan's Towne Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Sponsoring and Offering Promotion for ARCA Truck Series Race May 19

For Immediate Release:

Monday, May 7, 2012

(TOLEDO, Ohio) - After launching a new promotional partnership last spring, the Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA), Toledo Speedway, and Grogan's Towne Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram of Toledo have enhanced that relationship for 2012 - ARCA's 60th Anniversary Season.

The connection between the three key Toledo groups will be evident on Saturday, May 19, as Grogan's Towne will sponsor that afternoon's ARCA Truck Series race at Toledo Speedway, the Grogan's Towne 50. The race will lead one of the year's top race weekends at the half-mile oval, as the stars of the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards will shine in the next day's Menards 200 presented by Federated Car Care.

The Grogan's Towne 50 will open the ARCA Truck Series' 14th season, also marking the beginning of ARCA Fan Fest 2012, the interactive fan event surrounding the ARCA Racing Series event weekend at Toledo Speedway.

"ARCA is well known throughout the country but lucky for us, it's based right in our neighborhood," said Denny Amrhein, general manager and partner at Grogan's Towne. "We are proud to support our local community and especially our partnership with the leading racing organization."

The race sponsorship is beneficial not only for the track, but for area fans as well. Starting Thursday, May 10, race fans and customers who visit Grogan's Towne for oil change service any day through May 19 will receive two tickets to the Grogan's Towne 50 after the completion of their service.

Additionally, Grogan's Towne has renewed its position as an Official Sponsor of the ARCA Safety Initiative, and has supplied a Dodge Ram truck to be used as the chase vehicle for the 2012 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards season. The vehicle is used as the first-response vehicle for all ARCA Racing Series events, carrying ARCA Safety Initiative officials to the scene of on-track incidents to provide observations and evaluation of the track conditions and driver status.

"We're very appreciative of the support offered by Grogan's Towne to assist our safety efforts," said Joe Wells, vice president of competition for ARCA.

For over 50 years, Grogan's Towne Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram has offered exceptional service, unbeatable specials and the latest selections of new and pre-owned vehicles. Located at 6100 North Telegraph Road in Toledo, Grogan's Towne has your favorite Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram models at competitive prices. Grogan's Towne is dedicated to assisting you with all of your automotive needs and providing the best service possible.

The ARCA Safety Initiative is the culmination of forward thinking, combined efforts, and the desire to achieve a higher level of responsibility within the safety sector of the ARCA sanctioning body. In all, the Safety Initiative is designed to steer the safety efforts of the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards, as well as all action at Toledo Speedway and Flat Rock Speedway, ARCA's signature track properties.

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.

CONTACT:

Griffin Hickman, ARCA

Don Radebaugh, ARCA

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Burning Passion Fuels Larry Jackson's Championship Chase

By Jim Clarke, Kawartha Speedway PR/Clarke Motorsports Communications

Racecar drivers earn a living in a variety of different professions. At the short track level, few weekly runners – even the most successful in any division – can’t look at paying the bills with the money they earn at the track. Larry Jackson – who captured the NAPA Auto Parts ACT Late Model title at Kawartha Speedway in 2007 – is a full time professional firefighter. An acting captain with the City of Mississauga fire department, Jackson says he loves the competition at the Fraserville 3/8^th mile oval.

“Derek Lynch and his people at KD are a great bunch,” said Jackson, who’ll celebrate his 38^th birthday on May 12^th. “The decisions they have to make aren’t always easy, but it’s a wonderful place to race and I can’t think of anywhere I’d rather spend my Friday nights. For the most part, everyone gets along no matter how hard we might battle each other on the track.”

Jackson, who lives in Oakville, Ontario with partner Wendy Montgomery and their 8 year-old daughter has been racing in one division or another for more than 20 years. His career started in street stocks at nearby Flamboro Speedway, before turning laps in a challenger and open wheeled modified at Mosport and other tracks throughout the province. For the last 10 years, selected NASCAR modified shows south of the border have also been part of his agenda.

“Racing is an easy way to spend a lot of money you might not really have,” said Jackson with a smile. “I’ve been very fortunate to run competitively almost everywhere I’ve raced. My late model program at Kawartha has easily been the most satisfying and successful over the years. We’ve regularly been a top 10 car in points – finishing 2^nd in 2008 and 2011 – in addition to 3^rd in 2010, so that’s always a plus.”

Early in his career, Larry Jackson’s racecars carried the number 29 into battle, but an alliance with Barton Motorsports saw that change to 84. For Kawartha Speedway’s 2011 season, the driver of the Montgomery Marketing/Gary Jackson Trucking/B & B Decals/Speedy Muffler machine took the green flag in a piece that had been designed and built in the team’s shop. While they may have struggled to find the perfect set-up during the first few events, hard work by crew members Dean and David Ramsbottom, Chuck Barton, Dan Boutcher and Roger Youens turned the chassis into a winner.

“There were some things we’d always wanted to try and we managed to incorporate them into the new car,” said Jackson. “Anytime you start with something brand new – especially something you’ve built and designed on your own – you need to build some notes on how it handles and responds to the changes you make. I’m not saying we’re going to mass produce this car, but picking-up that first main event win was especially rewarding.”

While he’s nowhere near ready to walk away from the sport, Jackson admits that he’s thought about looking for a younger driver to take over his car, but before that happens; there is some unfinished business on his racing bucket list that needs to be taken care of.

“It would be nice to run a couple of road course races in a NASCAR Canadian Tire Series car or take the modified to New Smyrna,” said Jackson. “Just recently, I got to watch my beautiful little girl race her go kart of the first time. It was both scary and thrilling. Probably the same way my parents felt seeing my first race.”

Fans can follow Larry Jackson throughout Kawartha Speedway’s 2012 season at the track or by visiting www.bartonmotorsports.com.

Kawartha klips: Kawartha Speedway will hold its annual open practice session Friday, May 25^th. The 2012 season opener – with the track’s 3 regular divisions, as well as the OSCAAR Super Late Models and the new OSCAAR Modifieds – is Friday, June 1^st. There will also be a pre-season test for NASCAR Canadian Tire Series teams Wednesday, June 6^th. See www.kawarthaspeedway.com for all the details.

Photo attachment: Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications

Larry Jackson earned a second place NAPA Auto Parts ACT Late Model point finish during Kawartha Speedway’s 2011 season. The Oakville, Ontario racer is excited to start the 2012 campaign.

Prepared by: Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications

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Helliwell, Quenneville Take Rousing Spring Green Wins at Devil's Bowl Speedway

ATTACHED PHOTOS (all credit MemorEvents):

bombers.jpg: Bomber top three finishers (L-R): Harold LaVair (2nd), Josh Masterson (1st), Ray Germain, Jr. (3rd) in victory lane.

gordon2.jpg: Renegade winner Robert Gordon.

helliwell.jpg: 101.5 The Fox Spring Green winner Wayne Helliwell, Jr. (bottom left) and team celebrate their first career American-Canadian Tour victory.

quenneville.jpg: Bond Auto Parts Modified winner Vince Quenneville, Jr. (left) in victory lane with Kevin Nevalained, NASCAR Senior Manager, Weekly Racing Operations, of Daytona Beach, Florida.

First ACT win for Helliwell; Gordon and Masterson also winners

For Immediate Release DBS-050612-1

WEST HAVEN, VT – Devil’s Bowl Speedway fans rocked the grandstands with exciting season-opening stock car racing at the 101.5 “The Fox” Spring Green on Sunday afternoon. Wayne Helliwell, Jr., and Vince Quenneville, Jr., brought the house to its feet with close finishes and emotional landmark wins. Robert Gordon and Josh Masterson each started the 2012 campaign off in victory lane as well.

Helliwell, of Dover, NH, copped his first career victory on the American-Canadian Tour in a razor-close finish with Joey Polewarczyk, Jr. Helliwell started the 112-lap main event in third place but was held up in early traffic and fell back almost outside the top then. He clawed his way back to the front on the outside lane, taking the lead from Polewarczyk just after the halfway point in the race. Hudson, NH racer Polewarczyk held nothing back during the final laps as he tried to steal the win, but Helliwell persevered for his inaugural ACT Late Model Tour score. Austin Theriault of Fort Kent, ME drove from 20^th starting position to finish third ahead of Ray Parent and Randy Potter.

Vince Quenneville, Jr., made his return to Devil’s Bowl Speedway a popular one with his home track fans, taking the first Bond Auto Parts Modified victory of the year in the 35-lap NASCAR Whelen All-American Series feature. Quenneville, of Brandon, VT, drove into the lead on the outside of defending champion Ron Proctor after a restart with seven laps remaining and never looked back. Proctor, of Charlton, NY, held off a furious mid-race charge from Leon Gonyo for the runner-up spot. Jessey Mueller drove from 18^th starting position to finish third, with Gonyo fourth and rookie Joey Roberts completing the unofficial top five.

Rob Gordon of Milton, VT opened the season with a 25-lap score in the Renegade feature. Gordon beat Lance Rabtoy of Fairfax, VT in a comfortable margin at the finish, but not before two- and three-wide racing in the first half of the race. Ryan Keith finished third ahead of Frank Monroe and Jeremy Jones.

Rookie Josh Masterson of Bristol, VT started his Bomber division career on the right foot by winning that class’ 20-lap feature in his first career start. Harold LaVair of Gabriels, NY held on for second place. Ray Germain, Jr., was third, followed by John McCarron and Dan Collins.

Devil’s Bowl Speedway is back in action on Sunday, May 13 for a Mother’s Day Special event at 1:30pm. General admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors (62+), and free for children 12 and under. Devil’s Bowl Speedway is located on Route 22A in West Haven, VT, six miles north of Exit 2 on US Route 4. For more information, call (802) 265-3112 or click www.devilsbowlspeedwayvt.com.

UNOFFICIAL RESULTS – 101.5 “The Fox” Spring Green

Devil’s Bowl Speedway, West Haven, VT

Sunday, May 6, 2012

(# - denotes rookie)

American-Canadian Tour Late Models (112 laps)

1. Wayne Helliwell, Jr., Dover, NH

2. Joey Polewarczyk, Jr., Hudson, NH

3. Austin Theriault, Fort Kent, ME

4. Ray Parent, Tiverton, RI

5. Randy Potter, Groveton, NH

6. Eric Williams, Hyde Park, VT

7. Ricky Rolfe, Albany Township, ME

8. Quinny Welch, Lancaster, VT

9. Brent Dragon, Milton, VT

10. Luke Hinkley, Claremont, NH

11. Brian Hoar, Williston, VT

12. Nick Sweet, Barre, VT

13. Jamie Fisher, Shelburne, VT

14. Jean-Paul Cyr, Milton, VT

15. Todd Davis, Claremont, NH

16. Mark Lamberton, Mooers Forks, NY

17. Eddie MacDonald, Rowley, MA

18. Joey Becker, Jeffersonville, VT

19. Glen Luce, Turner, ME

20. Craig Bushey, Fairfax, VT

21. Travis Fadden, North Haverhill, NH

22. # Jimmy Hebert, Williamstown, VT

23. Todd Patnode, Richmond, NH

24. Jim Linardy, Somerville, MA

25. Bruce Jaycox, Hartland, VT

26. Derek Lynch, Warkworth, ON

27. Hunter Bates, Middlebury, VT

28. Jeff Labrecque, Jr., Rochester, NH

29. Spencer McPherson, Carleton Place, ON

30. Ben Ashline, Pittston, ME

31. Claude Leclerc, Lanoraie, QC

32. Rowland Robinson, Jr., Birch Harbor, ME

33. Eric Chase, Milton, VT

34. # Dan Petronis, II, Mechanicville, NY

Heat Winners: Eric Chase, Joey Polewarczyk, Jr., Brent Dragon

Consi Winners: Craig Bushey, Glen Luce

B-Feature Winner: Jimmy Hebert

Bond Auto Parts Modified (35 laps)

1. Vince Quenneville, Jr., Brandon, VT

2. Ron Proctor, Charlton, NY

3. Jessey Mueller, Olmstedville, NY

4. Leon Gonyo, Chazy, NY

5. # Joey Roberts, Georgia, VT

6. Alex Bell, Cambridge, NY

7. Don Scarborough, Brandon, VT

8. Hunter Bates, Middlebury, VT

9. Jamie Proctor, Schuylerville, NY

10. # Andy Smith, South Glens Falls, NY

11. Mike Bush, Hudson Falls, NY

12. Jason Bruno, Plattsburgh, NY

13. Cody Sargen, Greenfield Center, NY

14. # Jeff Haskins, Wells, VT

15. Jim Introne, Jr., Hartford, NY

16. Paul Braymer, Granville, NY

17. Matt Atwood, Whitehall, NY

18. James Introne, Sr., Hartford, NY

Did Not Start: Dave Snow, Brandon, VT

Heat Winners: Vince Quenneville, Jr., Joey Roberts, Ron Proctor

Renegade (25 laps)

1. Robert Gordon, Milton, VT

2. Lance Rabtoy, Fairfax, VT

3. Ryan Keith, Pittsford, VT

4. Frank Monroe, Granville, NY

5. Jeremy Jones, Leicester, VT

6. # Robin Cummings, Milton, VT

7. Bill Duprey, Hydeville, VT

8. # Bob Monroe, Granville, NY

9. Matt Livingston, Ballston Spa, NY

Heat Winner: Robert Gordon

Bomber (20 laps)

1. # Josh Masterson, Bristol, VT

2. Harold LaVair, Gabriels, NY

3. Ray Germain, Jr., Bristol, VT

4. John McCarron, Rennselaer, NY

5. Dan Collins, Rennselaer, NY

6. Garry Bashaw, Lincoln, VT

7. Jake Noble, Benson, VT

8. Matt Monaghan, Colchester, VT

9. Eddie Bruno, Fair Haven, VT

10. # Gerald LaFlam, Hinesburg, VT

11. Justin Lilly, Castleton, VT

12. Alan Drescher, Argyle, NY

13. John Fountain, Plattsburgh, NY

Did Not Start: Bobby LaVair, Gabriels, NY; # Shane Doran, Benson, VT

Heat Winners: Dan Collins, Josh Masterson

-30-

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2012-05-06

Une lithographie commémorative de Gilles Villeneuve, 30 ans après sa disparition

Communiqué de presse Pour diffusion immédiate

Montréal (Québec), le 5 mai 2012.- Trente années après sa disparition, l’image de Gilles Villeneuve reste encore présente dans tous les esprits. Le petit gars de Berthierville qui n’avait peur de rien, qui avait déjà planifié en détail sa montée vers la F1 lors de sa première présence en piste, à St-Eustache en avril 1973, et qui a marqué les esprits des centaines de millions de personnes qui l’ont vu se battre en piste.

Le Musée Gilles-Villeneuve a voulu commémorer l’évènement en produisant une lithographie qui représente quelques grands moments de la carrière de notre Gilles : au volant de sa Ferrari F1, en compagnie d’Enzo Ferrari, qui le considérait comme son fils, et lors de sa première victoire en Grand Prix, à Montréal en 1978. On y voit aussi le nom Labatt, un commanditaire si important lors de ses débuts, et le « Salut Gilles » repris encore aujourd’hui dans toutes les langues lors de Grand Prix à travers le monde.

Seulement 1 227 lithographies (une combinaison de ses deux numéros en F1, le 12 et le 27) seront vendues, au coût de 350 $. Pour plus d’information, communiquez avec le Musée Gilles-Villeneuve, au 1-800-639-0103 ou museegillesvilleneuve@bellnet.ca.

- 30 -

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2012-05-09

AUTODROME GRANBY - FEU VERT SAISON 2012

Two NASCAR Nationwide Series Crew Chiefs Fined; Crew Chiefs, Car Chiefs Placed On Probation For Infractions At Talladega Superspeedway

Contact:

Kerry Tharp

NASCAR Integrated Marketing Communications

Airborne Late Models face Canadian invasion

Polewarczyk Picked Top 25 in Speed 51 Short Track Draft

Signature d'un partenariat majeur avec WeatherTech Canada pour la saison 2012

Luke Hinkley Solidly Among ACT Leaders

2012-05-08

COMME GILLES VILLENEUVE EN 1976, CAMIRAND ÉLECTRISERA PAU GRÂCE AU GP3R

2012-05-07

Grogan's Towne Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Sponsoring and Offering Promotion for ARCA Truck Series Race May 19

Burning Passion Fuels Larry Jackson's Championship Chase

Helliwell, Quenneville Take Rousing Spring Green Wins at Devil's Bowl Speedway

2012-05-06

Une lithographie commémorative de Gilles Villeneuve, 30 ans après sa disparition

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