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:: INSIDE: NASCAR MAKES BIG NOISE IN MONTREAL :: MOTORCYCLE

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4-wheel news

volume 19 issue 5

F1 Bound Sebastien Bourdais came to North America five years ago in the hopes of advancing his career. Now, after three straight Champ Car titles and possibly a fourth in 2007, his dream has finally been realized. In 2008, the Frenchman will head home to Europe as races in Formula One full-time with Toro Rosso

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Goodbye to F1

Photo by LAT Photogrpahic

Scott Speed has spent the last two years trying to prove an American can succeed in Formula One. His dreams came to an abrupt end as he was dismissed by Toro Rosso before the end of the season. Now the young American is returning home looking for a new path in his driving career.

22 Busch-whacking in Montreal The NASCAR Busch Series made its long-awaited debut in Canada and the event could not have gone any better.

Drivers came out in full force and the fan reaction was spectacular. Coupled with a dramatic finish, there is little doubt that the inaugural event was a rousing success.

40

Speeding Through Canada The IHRA rampaged through Edmonton and Grand Bend in July as the series continues to strengthen its presence in the Canadian market. Drag Racing Editor Bruce Biegler captures the excitement of the Rocky Mountain Nationals and Mopar Canadian Nationals.

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4-wheel news

volume 19 issue 5

columns 10

12 32

From the Editor’s Desk

Racing only a part-time schedule in 2007, Canadian Ron Fellows still has the burning desire of competition.

Neal Jones sits down with the Canadian racing legend to discuss his season and what the future holds.

Inside Racing

Todd Lewis recounts his experience at the inaugural NASCAR Busch race in Montreal.

Getting Off the Marks

While McLaren rules Formula One in 2007, there has been constant stress between Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton.

36

Caution Period

44

On the Chrome Horn

50 58

David Hatter looks at safety in the IRL after scary crashes

by Dario Franchitti.

While the Busch Series took all the headlines in Montreal, the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series race produced the most exciting action at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve.

As the final races loom before the start of the Chase, many drivers are just playing out the string as the contenders will all be on equal footing.

On the Road

Patrick Carpentier had a difficult 2007, but all that changed with an impressive run in the Busch race in Montreal.

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Grand Prix of Toronto

52

World Rally Championship

nhra powerade series

44

Steelback’s first-year as the title sponsor in Toronto was a big success, but a rain-plagued race produced some bizarre moments for the Champ Car World Series.

Marcus Gronholm extended his championship lead and it will take a lot of help for Sebastien Loeb to secure another WRC World Championship.

NHRA POWERade Series

There was a flurry of activity for NHRA drivers in midsummer as records fell at some of the best races the series has ever produced.

extras 86

80

NHRA Hot Rod Reunion

nascar montreal

micks shines in montreal

28

The storied history of the National Hot Rod Association was highlighted during the 5th Annual Holley Hot Rod Reunion in Kentucky.

100

Brake & Suspension Guide

Highlighting the best products to keep your car glued to the street and to ensure you can stop on dime.

112

2007 Points Standings

Points for the top 10 drivers from series around the world.

08

32

Trading Paint

events

80

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Performance Racing News

grand prix of toronto

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from theEditor’s

by Neal Jones I Executive Editor

Desk

Canadian Icon unveiled a brand new Corvette C6-R production car in an Arctic White colour scheme. The special edition Corvette came bearing the name of Ron Fellows, the man who led Corvette Racing to its big success in sportscar racing over the past decade. The honour was a fitting reward for one of the most popular gentleman to ever don a racing suit.

“It’s an awesome honour,” the resident of Mississauga, ON said. “It’s more a mark of success for the team itself, but I guess I’ve been around the longest.”

Since he began his professional career over 20 years ago, Fellows has become one of Canada’s greatest known racers and his respect can be felt in any paddock he enters. There is little doubt that a spot is on reserve for him in the Canadian Motorsports Hall of Fame and his name within the motorsports community resonates just as strongly as the name Villeneuve.

Entering the 2007 season, Fellows took a step back from his driving duties as he decided to race on a part-time basis and take on a role within the GM Racing family behind the scenes.

Still, he has competed at the Sebring 12 Hours and 24 Hours of Le Mans with Corvette Racing along with running select races with the Cadillac World Challenge team. While his full-time duties behind the wheel may be a thing of the past, that doesn’t mean the likable Canadian hasn’t had a busy year.

“I’ve been a little busy with other things this year,” he said. “I’ve run the Cadillac a few times and there are a few more races ahead. I certainly miss it (driving full-time). Running Le Man is always fun and then there were the three NASCAR races, which were a lot of fun too.”

Of course, the NASCAR races. It was in stock cars that Fellows truly became a household name as he produces impressive runs every time NASCAR comes calling. He has won five times in NASCAR (2 Busch races and 3 Craftsman Truck races), but it is the elusive victory in Cup racing that still drives him. He continues to battle for the first victory by a Canadian in NASCAR Cup competition since the great Earl Ross did the trick way back in the ‘70s. His road racing expertise means that his phone starts ringing off the hook every time NASCAR approaches a race where turning right is also part of the program. This year was extra special 10

Photo by LAT Photographic

E

arlier this year, General Motors

for Fellows as he got to race in front of his home country fans in the first Busch race on Canadian soil, and then did double duty the following weekend by racing in the Busch and Cup races at Watkins Glen.

“I had three solid NASCAR races, but it was disappointing to be so close and not get the win,” he said. “I really enjoyed Montreal, I was glad I was able to stick around long enough to see it happen. Montreal is a great venue.”

Fellows spent much of the Montreal race saving his brakes, but was always in the top three or four stalking the leaders. He was poised to strike after a late yellow, but contact from behind spun him out and he had to settle for fourth when the dust settled in the chaotic finish.

His success in Montreal once again got the phone ringing and the next weekend at The Glen brought another first for Fellows. In the Cup he got his first chance with the new Car of

Tomorrow, and despite what some have said he enjoyed the car. “I like the Car of Tomorrow.

Now, I don’t race the other cars every weekend so it’s not as big a switch for me, but I enjoyed it. The difference for me is to go at it full-time, but there aren’t many teams looking for rookies in their 40s,” he joked. “Next year is still up in the air, but I plan on doing more NASCAR races; it’s all about driving talent.”

Fellows, unfortunately, faces the same dilemma many Canadians face when they venture beyond our borders – he’s just too nice.

Fellows is the kind of man who lets his results do the talking for him and he’s not one to cause headlines with some outlandish comments.

Of course, we wouldn’t want it any other way.

There’s a reason he’s among the few drivers that virtually everyone in the sport has a kind word for.

That alone has helped him stand out among his peers and has made him a true Canadian icon.

The special edition Ron Fellows Corvette C6-R

Performance Racing News

Editorial 19.05.indd 1

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“To cloc

(ISSN # 0834 - 809X) is published 9 times a year by 1009678 Ontario Inc., 44 Prince Andrew Place, Toronto, ON, M3C 2H4.

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Caught on Camera 1, 2, 3 – Heave! Marco Andretti is flipped over by the safety crew after a scary incident during the IRL IndyCar race at Mid-Ohio in mid-July. The third generation driver walked away unscathed from the incident.

Performance Racing News

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9/7/07 2:31:32 PM

Photo by Ramesh Bayney

Stellar opening for

NASCAR Inside Racing with Todd Lewis

in Montreal

H

ow good was the first-ever run

by NASCAR in Montreal at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve? Quite spectacular actually.

Whatever the actual final attendance number was, it was very satisfying to the big company from Daytona. They had a remarkable race finish, tons of souvenir sales, and plenty of people arrived already decked out in Home Depot or other NASCAR gear. This caught some by surprise. There was apprehension that Montreal and Quebec race fans were extremely open wheel oriented. Well, let me tell you, there’s plenty of stock car racing fans in la Belle Province.

As for the finish of the Busch Series race: I commend NASCAR for throwing the book at Robby Gordon. He behaved like a donkey and was given a timeout and sent to his room for the rest of the weekend. The thing that’s lost in all the hoopla is the free pass given to Kevin Harvick who gets away with punting two fast cars out of the way and then takes the checkered flag and winner’s cheque. Harvick afterwards blamed Scott Pruett for not giving him room to race. Well, I can understand his frustration in running out of race track, but after he stopped and avoided contact, he then returned to the asphalt before punting Pruett and who then collected Ron Fellows. Jerk.

Other great things about the Busch series weekend in Montreal: The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series race was awesome… What a tremendous pass by Kerry Micks who was airborne and took the win away from Andrew Ranger… Hanging out in the garages and listening to Ron Fellows and Boris Said, who were joined by other drivers drifting in and out of the racing conversation. It’s not just hearing what they’re saying but also watch-

12

ing the facial expressions of the drivers as they tell stories of other events and series and great moments they’ve enjoyed. That’s my Mastercard priceless moment... Finally, to the Montreal fans, well done. See you for the second annual next summer. Sebastian Bourdais’ wish came true as he was granted a full time ride in Formula One. It’s an opportunity that is long overdue. I know the Champ Car World Series level of competition isn’t what it used to be, but this guy is incredible.

He wins 40% of the time. Think about that for a minute. Over what will be five-year career in the series, he won four of every 10 races. Go ahead, try and find another winning percentage even close. Then of course there are the championships. Juan Montoya, Alex Zanardi and Cristiano da Matta were given a shot in F1 without nearly the accomplishments of “Seabass.”

I hope he does well with Toro Rosso. Bourdais is an interesting guy when you talk with him. He’s misunderstood by many. He has a sense of humour, although few believe it. He is as passionate as any winning driver. The hardest adjustment will be finishing best in class instead of winning the race.

Still with Champ Car, it was nice to see a bigger crowd at the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto than last year, but there’s something wrong. Having passed the 20-year mark, the race through Exhibition Place in Toronto has fallen into a funk and must change to go forward and succeed. There is a great line by Jack Nicholson as the Joker in the original Batman movie” “This town needs an enema” and that’s what the Toronto race requires.

Hello Downsview Park, we’re knocking on your door to relocate and revitalize this event. Are you listening Bob Singleton?

Performance Racing News

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Performance Racing News

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Sebastien Bourdais came to Champ Car after his F1 dream stalled in 2002. Now, after three straight championships and possibly a fourth this year, the Frenchman has signed with Scuderia Toro Rosso for 2008, realizing the ultimate goal of his driving career. David Hatter reflects on the path Bourdais took to reach the pinnacle of motorsports.

Performance Racing News

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9/7/07 3:36:33 PM

Courtesy Toro Rosso

Worth the Wait

A

fter almost five seasons as the dominant driver in the Champ Car World Series, Sébastien Bourdais is finally getting a long-overdue opportunity to prove himself in Formula 1.

The 28-year-old Frenchman has been confirmed as one of Scuderia Toro Rosso’s drivers for the 2008 season following three successful test sessions with the team, dating back to last December. He will paired with his German namesake Sebastian Vettel — the ‘two Sebs,’ as they are already being called.

Vettel debuted with the team at the Hungarian Grand Prix, replacing the fired Scott Speed (who has since been picked up by Red Bull’s NASCAR / ARCA stock car squad). Bourdais will replace Vitantonio Liuzzi. With just one scheduling clash with Champ Car, there is even some speculation that he may make his F1 debut before the end of this season.

“It’s been a long time coming, but here we are,” said a relieved Bourdais after his place on the team was confirmed on Aug. 10, adding that it has always been his “dream” to race Formula 1.

Toro Rosso is the former Minardi team, acquired and renamed by Red Bull at the end of 2005. It is one of only two teams (along with Spyker) that have yet to score a championship point through the first 12 F1 races of this year, although it has shown some signs of competitiveness.

16

Liuzzi has twice qualified as high as 12th, at Monaco and Montreal.

Still, Bourdais seems to have lowered his expectations somewhat since a 2003 interview with PRN when he said: “I would prefer to be in CART (Champ Car), winning races, than be a backmarker in F1.”

That was then, this is now. In 2003, he was still a Champ Car rookie, on his way to fourth place in the championship (plus top rookie honours, naturally). Since then, he has won an unprecedented three consecutive titles and he is on target for a fourth. After 11 of 15 races, he has a commanding 53-point lead, 283-230, over Robert Doornbos (who ironically raced for Minardi in 2005 and Red Bull in 2006). So he really has nothing left to prove in North America.

It was in the spring of 2006 that Bourdais decided he needed to make his move if he were ever to break into F1. At the time, the native of Le Mans seemed to be settling down in the United States. He had bought a home in St. Petersburg, FL, had just married his long-time girlfriend Claire and they were expecting their first baby (Emma, who arrived early this year). But Bourdais’ F1 ambitions had not completely faded.

“I don’t regret what I’m doing in the United States,” he said at the time. “But on the other hand, I’d like to think there are some openings in F1 that I can pursue. These possibilities exist,

It’s been a long time coming, but here we are.”

Performance Racing News

Bourdais 19.05 V2.indd 4

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Worth the Wait

Since 2004 he has won an unprecedented three consecutive titles and he is on target for a fourth. So he really has nothing left to prove in North America.

but the window is getting narrower and narrower with the passage of time. I’ve been saying that for two or three years, so it must be really small now.

But you never know.”

His first step was to hire fellow Frenchman Nicolas Todt as his agent. He is the son of Ferrari team director Jean Todt and is making a name for himself as an influential figure behind the scenes in F1. Unfortunately for Todt Jr., Bourdais’ signing with Toro Rosso is bittersweet, as he also represents Liuzzi, for whom he must now try to find another ride.

Bourdais also arranged a meeting with his F1 nemesis, Flavio Briatore, to try to make peace with him. The Renault boss had openly detested Bourdais since early in his career when the young driver turned to him for help in securing an F3000 ride and then changed his mind and went elsewhere. Ever since, Briatore had rarely missed any chance to trash him, especially in the French media. After their meeting, he was prepared to concede that Bourdais had “matured.”

With Briatore’s bad-mouthing behind them, Bourdais and Todt secured a meeting with Gerhard Berger, who co-owns the Toro Rosso team with Red Bull boss (and fellow Austrian) Dietrich Mateschitz. The ex-McLaren/Ferrari/Benetton driver was willing to give him a test at the end of the season. That took place over three days in December at Jerez in the south of Spain. The Frenchman was almost immediately on pace with Liuzzi and quite a bit faster than Speed.

This was not Bourdais’ first taste of F1. He tested for Arrows at Valencia, Spain, in the summer of 2002, the year that he won the International F3000 championship. He even signed with Arrows for 2003 — only for the team to collapse. At the end of 2002, as Renault was looking for a French test driver, he was invited to drive one of its cars at Jerez, along with Franck Montagny. Bourdais was quicker, but Montagny got the job, following Briatore’s intervention.

That is when Bourdais and his then manager, David Sears, turned their attention to Champ Car, securing a ride with Newman-Haas after a stunning test at Sebring. Since then, Bourdais has won more than 40 per cent of his Champ Car races (29 in 70 18

starts). Overlook his rookie season and the figure rises to 50 per cent (26 of 52) since 2004.

Following the promising December test with Toro Rosso, Berger promised Bourdais that he would have another chance in the car. “I believe Gerhard was rather satisfied with my work at Jerez,” said the driver. The second test was held at Le Castellet circuit in the south of France this spring.

By now, it was clear that the team was seriously interested in his services and a third and decisive test was scheduled for Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium, on July 11-12.

“For Toro Rosso, I think it was important to know what I was capable of on a circuit like Spa, which is demanding on the driver,” said Bourdais, who was quite familiar with the track, having won the 24-hour race there in 2002 at the wheel of a Dodge Viper. This summer, between Champ Car races and F1 tests, he also found time to take part in another 24-hour race, this one in his hometown of Le Mans, finishing second for Peugeot.

By the time the Spa test rolled around, it was clear that Speed had no long-term future with

With the birth of his first child, Emma, earlier this year, the 2007 season has brought Sebastien Bourdais everything he could ask for — on and off the track

Performance Racing News

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Worth the Wait

Bourdais is the fifth Champ Car titlist in the past dozen years to make the move to F1, following Jacques Villeneuve, Alex Zanardi, Juan Montoya and Cristiano da Matta.

20

Toro Rosso, but Liuzzi’s ouster was not yet anticipated, so there appeared to be only one vacant seat to fill. And Bourdais was no longer the only contender. Indeed, team management seemed split into two camps.

Mateschitz made no secret of his desire to snatch up Vettel, the 20-year-old German who had scored a championship point in his F1 debut for BMW at Indianapolis (subbing for the injured Robert Kubica). He had long been a member of Red Bull’s driver development program.

Berger, however, was seen as a backer of Bourdais when he was widely quoted as saying that youth is all well and good, but nothing beats experience. At 28, Bourdais is already older than 13 of the 22 current F1 drivers.

At Spa, Bourdais completed 144 laps over two days and got down to a time of 1:48.585. That compared with 1:49.179 for Liuzzi, although he did only 63 laps during one day. Speed was conspicuously absent. After the test, the team took a short-term option, through July 31, on Bourdais’ services for 2008.

Issues to be resolved included salary. Bourdais reportedly makes about $2 million a year in Champ Car, while Toro Rosso was paying its F1 drivers only a quarter of that amount. Presumably, a compromise has been reached. Also, the

Red Bull energy drink is not authorized for sale in France — but there’s nothing Bourdais can do about that.

Prospects briefly appeared bleak for Bourdais when the team announced on July 31 that it was firing Speed effective immediately and would be running Vettel, not only in the upcoming race at Budapest, but through 2008.

After the Spa test, Bourdais had said: “If the team takes Sebastian Vettel, for example, I am not sure that Toro Rosso will be interested in dropping both its current drivers.” But happily for him, he was wrong. A few days later, Liuzzi was out — at least by season’s end — and Bourdais was in.

“I would like to thank everyone at Red Bull for believing in me and giving me this long-awaited opportunity to race in F1,” said Bourdais. “I must also thank Newman-Haas-Lanigan Racing for letting me pursue my dream and allowing me to test for Scuderia Toro Rosso a few times this year.”

Bourdais is the fifth Champ Car titlist in the past dozen years to make the move to F1, following Jacques Villeneuve, Alex Zanardi, Juan Montoya and Cristiano da Matta. There is no word yet as to who Newman-Haas-Lanigan might seek to fill Bourdais’ seat, but whoever it is will have some enormous tire tracks to follow.

Performance Racing News

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Performance Racing News

Scott Speed 19.05.indd 2

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Photos by LAT Photographic

American Scott Speed spent the past few years hoping to accomplish his goal of racing in Formula One. And for a year-and-a-half he realized that dream, but an acrimonious end came after the European Grand Prix as he was replaced at Toro Rosso. Neal Jones reflects on the end of Speed’s F1 career.

A

fter winning the 2002 Red Bull Driver Search, Scott Speed was on pace to realize his childhood dream of racing in Formula One. He knew making the top rung of the motorsports ladder was going to be a long climb, but he ventured across the Atlantic Ocean to ensure he gave himself every opportunity to succeed.

After two seasons cutting his teeth in the top development series Europe has to offer — GP2 — Speed was rewarded with a full-time ride with the Toro Rosso team in 2005. Speed believes that the main reason he was able to make that jump was because of the experience he gained racing in Europe, not to mention the financial backing of Red Bull.

“At the end of the day if you want to go to F1 you have to go to Europe,” Speed said earlier this year in Montreal. “That was clear even at a young age, even for go-karting. If you want to be at the top of motorsports you have to go to Europe and train because the best drivers in the world are there and you rise to the level of competition. It has been very clear for the last 15 years that that has been the case.”

As for the backing of Red Bull, Speed said, “Certainly it has been the reason why I made it to F1. I certainly could not afford it myself to go to Europe and race. With Red Bull’s help they have made all this possible.”

Performance Racing News

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9/7/07 4:03:52 PM

It was a lesson he may not have ever learned though, based on what the future held for him in 2007.

At the start of the 2007 season, team co-owner Gerhard Berger had some critical comments about both his drivers and a battle emerged in the press between the parties. While much of that went quiet when the season began, the lingering tension was something that could not be ignored.

“I think that he (Berger) was very un-supporting at the beginning of the year,” Speed said. “I read

Coming Home

Photos by LAT Photographic

Toro Rosso’s first year saw the team struggle at times, but the young Speed was not discouraged.

He believed progress was being made every week and that eventually the results would follow. Still, he opened the 2006 season with a points-paying result at Australia. Or so he thought. After the race a meeting between Speed, David Coulthard and Race Stewards saw the American penalized and thus, he lost the point for an eighth-place result.

“That was my introduction to the politics of F1,” he recalled. “It is not like it has gone away either. It is always going to be that way. If I am trying to talk to some people against David Coulthard, who is going to believe a 21 or 22 year old kid? It certainly is harder for us younger drivers in that aspect of racing because F1 is quite political, and there are a lot of people who control it. And to know who those people are and to influence them positively, and to work that part of motor racing is something that David for one is really good at. And something that is one of the biggest things that I will learn in the next years and have learned.”

The relationship between Scott Speed and Gerhard Berger was never a happy marriage as the two traded barbs in the press all season long

SEARCHING FOR A HOME

Once Scott Speed left Europe, he quickly started making his presence felt in North America as the search began for a new path to his driving career. Tops on the list for the American is a chance to showcase his talents in the world of NASCAR. At the recent Michigan race, Speed was seen making the rounds in the pits as he hopes to make the transition to stock cars in 2008. “Scott is looking at driving opportunities in North America,” his agent Glen Hinshaw said. “We want to get him into a healthy race situation. We’re not in a rush. Scott sees his long-term future in North America is NASCAR or Champ Car or IRL. He’s excited. There are

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a lot of teams interested in Scott.”

Speed does not expect jump right into the Nextel Cup field and is willing to discuss a development contract to ease his transition. While Juan Montoya made a quick jump, he also had some oval experience, something Speed does not have on his resumé.

An obvious in with NASCAR is through the new Red Bull team, but that relationship is not as harmonious as it once was since his departure. But, Speed has met with Red Bull owner Dietrich Mateschitz and they are talking about possibilities in North America. “He would be an asset for us in NASCAR,” Mateschitz said.

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Coming Home

Bitter Ending Heading into the Nurburgring, no one was clear on what the Toro Rosso line-up would be in 2008. While virtually every expert expected Sebastien Bourdais to make his move to F1, nothing had been written in stone. But, even before the fateful race on Sunday, Speed felt like an outsider in his own team.

Photo by Ramesh Bayney

Scott Speed made many sacrifices in his pursuit of his F1 dream, but now he is back in North America and will look to take his career in a new direction

a lot of bullshit in the press. But at this point I think he is happy with me and Tonio (teammate Antonio Liuzzi), so that is good. That makes me happy.”

While Speed’s comments sounded like the trouble between the feisty American and the team were over, it didn’t take long for things to resurface shortly after speaking with him in Montreal. In fact, it was only four Grands Prix later when his F1 career came to an abrupt halt.

Photos by LAT Photographic

...At the end of the day if you want to go to F1 you have to go to Europe...”

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“It’s clear that from my bosses, me and Tonio both have very little support,” Speed said. “It’s been that way for the last two years, and it’s a lot more now.

At some point I said I don’t care, if I’m not in F1 next year, if I’m with a different team, it’s OK for me...”

At the time, however, Speed was quick to recognize the difference between Red Bull and team management.

“Red Bull on one side, who’ve been a huge support for me, and the whole reason I’ve made it as far as I did, and Gerhard and Franz (Tost, Team Manager) who are running the F1 team. And those two, I think, sometimes don’t get along.

“It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to read the press and know that Franz and Gerhard are pushing like hell to get rid of me and Tonio. So they have their own agendas, and their own motivations, and good for them. Personally, as unhappy as they are with me, I’m easily as unhappy with them.”

On race day, things went from bad to worse and at the end of the day everyone expected that Speed had raced for the last time with Toro Rosso. Speed’s day ended in the gravel trap, which saw more than one driver finish the race there, but it was upon returning to the pits that things got ugly. Depending on who you believe, Tost either grabbed Speed by the neck (Speed’s account) or he simply grabbed the American’s shoulder when Speed tried to walk away from him (Tost’s version). Either way, the ensuing media frenzy caused a stir in the paddock and nobody expected to see Speed at that week’s test, let alone at another Grand Prix.

Thus, when the announcement came that Speed was being replaced with Test Driver Sebastien Vettel prior to the Hungarian Grand Prix, very few eyebrows were raised.

So ends the journey of the only American driver to compete in F1 since the days of Michael Andretti in 1993. No doubt Speed’s feisty attitude played a role in his departure, but it is also one of the reasons he made it to the top of the motorsports world. Now, he returns to North America in search of a new destiny that will no doubt keep his name in the headlines, and a chance to show the F1 community what they are missing.

It had been a troubling two years between Toro Rosso and Scott Speed before the American was dismissed from his ride prior to the Hungarian Grand Prix

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A DELICATE SOUND OF SPEED

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By Neal Jones | Editor in Chief

Team Australia’s Will Power survived the wet conditions to win the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto

TORONTO

POWER SURGE 28

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Robert Doornbos had high hopes for another win on Canadian soil, but contact with Bourdais put him back in the pack; he rebounded to finish sixth and take a small points lead in the championship

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verything was going great for the Champ Car World Series in Toronto. In its first-year with new title sponsor Steelback, the Grand Prix of Toronto got off to a great start as perfect weather, incredible on track action and a big crowd highlighted the opening two days. Then things got crazy on Sunday.

When the rain starting falling just before the Champ Car Atlantic race, the Champ Car teams were scrambling to change their set-ups for what was going to be a wet race. By the time the green flag waved for the main event, heavy rain had turned the track into an ice-like surface and fans knew that carnage would be the order of the day.

Photo by Ramesh Bayney

The excitement never abated as the lead changed several times and every time fans thought they had the race figured out, something adverse happened to change the running order It didn’t take long for that to come true. Oriol Servia rocketed off the start to steal the lead from the front row starters Sebastien Bourdais and Justin Wilson. Behind them, the first lap had incidents all over the track. Of course, Turn 1 got things started as several cars came together, and that was followed by even more disasters in Turn 3. The worst of it, at least for Toronto

The multi-year sponsorship deal signed by Steelbrack Breweries started very well for both promoters and Steelback President Frank D’Angelo. Champ Car was very pleased with its first venture with D’Angelo, who was equally impressed by the response the title sponsorship gained for his brewery.

“We are thrilled with the promotion and advertising for this event and what it has done for our company,” said D’Angelo.

“The support from Champ Car World Series and the Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto has been second to none, and we are looking forward to this relationship going forward. Not only have we seen unbelievable results leading up to the race, but in our first day on site, we had to bring in two extra trucks to handle the volume. With the fantastic weather and great racing ahead, we expect an incredible weekend of sales.”

“Frank and his Steelback team truly understand what we are trying to do with the Champ Car World Series, which is to create a festive atmosphere built around the great racing,” said Champ Car President & CEO Steve Johnson. “They’re excellent partners, and the fun, lively event that they’ve created here is impressive.”

Photo by Ramesh Bayney

Photo by Ramesh Bayney

Steelback on the right track

Neel Jani drove a patient race in Toronto and was rewarded with his best Champ Car finish – second Performance Racing News

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9/7/2007 11:16:48 AM

Toronto Power Surge

Team Australia wins Canadian Triple Crown It was a novel idea that brought a lot of excitement to the three Canadian races in 2007. Just prior to the Champ Car race at Mont-Tremblant, it was announced that a Canadian Triple Crown competition had been set-up for the three events on Canadian soil. The team competition combined the results of team drivers to declare one winner.

Team Australia took the honour, fitting since it was Will Power and Simon Pagenaud who announced the contest. Power made the biggest contribution with a win in Toronto, but the responsibility of bringing home the trophy went to Pagenaud in Edmonton as Power encountered mechanical trouble. A fourth-place result gave Team Australia the victory ahead of the NewmanHaas-Laningan duo of Sebastien Bourdais and Graham Rahal.

Photo by John Larsen

race fans, came when hometown hero Paul Tracy got a wing from another caught under his front wheels, which forced the Thrill From West Hill into the wall at Turn 7.

While the racing was sloppy at times, the excitement never abated as the lead changed several times and every time fans thought they had the race figured out, something adverse happened to change the running order. Add in somewhat dry conditions early, followed by even more rain and this was definitely not a race for the faint of heart.

Survival became the word of the day and no one handled the conditions better than Australia’s Will Power, who scored his second victory of the season. Power was one of the few drivers to keep his nose clean throughout the race and took full advantage of his opportunity to win and make up ground in the championship.

It was a very eventful day for the championship leaders. Sebastien Bourdais had several run-ins at the front, including contact with Wilson that spun his title rival into the tires. Wilson, however, rebounded and made a big run through the field to eventually finish third. Bourdais was not done there, though, as he and Robert Doornbos fought for position, the two collided. The result was the three-time champ was out of the race while Doornbos lost just one lap and soldiered on to finish sixth and moved to the championship lead.

Toronto marked the half-way point of the Champ Car season, and while the action on the track had equal amounts of brilliant moves and questionable decision, the title chase left Toronto with the top three separated by a scant three points. The Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto definitely lived up to its reputation of a must-see event and set the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the 2007 season.

Sebastien Bourdais had several run-ins during the Toronto race and the final encounter resulted in a DNF for the polesitter

Photo by Ramesh Bayney

Photo by Lesley Ann Miller/LAT

It was a quick end to the day for hometown favourite Paul Tracy as a wing got caught under his car and sent him into the wall on lap one

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Photo by John Larsen

Photo by Ramesh Bayney

Despite this spin after contact with Sebastien Bourdais, Justin Wilson rebounded to grab the final podium spot in Toronto

Performance Racing News

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GETTING OF THE MARKS WITH DAN KNUSTON

Strained relations The Hungarian Grand Prix could be the beginning of the end for McLaren’s all-star driver line-up

“L

ouis, I think this is the start of a beautiful friendship,” Humphrey Bogart says to Claude Rains as Rick Blaine and Captain Louis Renault walk off into the fog in the final scene of the 1942 film Casablanca.

In the final scene of the 2007 Hungarian Grand Prix the script would be something like: “Lewis/ Fernando/Ron, I think this is the start of the end of a beautiful friendship.”

Tempers have cooled and some rational thought has returned within the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team, but the relationship between Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso and Ron Dennis will never be the same again.

It all started in the final qualifying session where McLaren’s strategy — planned down to the second — called for Alonso to go out ahead of Hamilton and thus get in one more lap of “fuel burn” so that he’d have a lighter fuel load for his final qualifying lap.

Hamilton was at the head of the line at pit exit with Alonso and Kimi Raikkonen behind him.

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When the green light came on, Hamilton, worried that if he let Alonso go by that Raikkonen’s Ferrari would slip through as well, zoomed away. Hamilton thought he would let Alonso pass later in the lap, but Alonso lagged behind.

“I was told to let Fernando past later on,” Hamilton said, “but he was miles behind so I just kept going.”

Alonso and the team were not pleased.

“What happened… was something new for the team,” Alonso said. “Hamilton not listening, disobeying them, was something they hadn’t experienced.”

Something new indeed. Lewis has been part of the McLaren family for a decade. He was Ron’s golden boy — someone who always did what the team and Ron told him to do.

In the final three minutes of qualifying, Alonso pitted first. The team changed his tires in six seconds and then held him for an additional 20 seconds to give him a gap in traffic on his final fast lap. Off came the tire blankets and up

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Strained Relations

Exiting and entering the pits during qualifying proved to be a dilemma for the McLaren team in Hungary and the aftermath has left questions about the future of the AlonsoHamilton partnership in 2008

went the lollipop signaling board, but Alonso sat there for an additional 10 seconds. At first, he said he was waiting while his engineer gave him a release countdown over the radio, but later he changed his story to say that he had been asking the team if the correct set of tires had been fitted to his car.

Meanwhile, a fuming Hamilton was waiting to get into the pit stall. Alonso took off, did a quick warmup lap, and crossed the start/finish line with less than a second remaining in the session. Hamilton crossed the line four seconds later. Too late.

Hamilton and Dennis had a very frank exchange of views about the situation over the radio.

“I thought that because of the argument I had with Ron over the radio, he was obviously angry, I thought that perhaps he was just teaching me a lesson,” Hamilton said later. “So I just took it on the chin. That is why when I went to the (qualifying) press conference I said I wouldn’t have thought Fernando would do something like that, but I have reasons to believe otherwise.”

Hamilton obviously now believes that Alonso was paying him back for messing him around at the start of the session.

After hours of deliberation, the stewards ruled that Alonso had prevented Hamilton from making a qualifying run, which is against the rules, and dropped him from pole to sixth place on the grid.

The pole at the Hungaroring almost guarantees a victory, and Hamilton, promoted to pole, did indeed win. Alonso, who said he’d have won from pole, finished fourth.

The officials also punished McLaren by saying that the team could not score any points in the Constructors Championship in the race. The stewards said that there was only one car on the track when McLaren held Alonso in the pits for those 20 34

seconds to give him his clear lap. McLaren, which has filed an appeal, says it was calculating ahead when there would be 10 cars on the track.

On the morning of the race, Hamilton went around to every member of the team, apologizing for his actions and saying they should put it all behind and get on with the job. The only person he did not speak to was Alonso who refused to talk to him on Saturday and Sunday.

Several days later McLaren put out a statement in which Hamilton said he and Alonso had spoken to each other after leaving Budapest and planned to meet to iron things out.

Just after the race a disillusioned Alonso told the Spanish media that he wasn’t sure if he could stick out his three-year contract with McLaren.

There has been plenty of speculation in the media that either Alonso or Hamilton will leave the team.

Dennis and sidekick Martin Whitmarsh both looked haggard in Budapest as all this came on top of all the drama of the “spy scandal” with McLaren’s Mike Coughlan receiving secret data from Ferrari’s Nigel Stepney.

There was a sense that Dennis had lost control of his drivers with Hamilton directly disobeying a team order and Alonso taking revenge into his own hands.

Dennis issued a frank warning.

“We will continue to function as a Grand Prix team with specific values,” he said. “And if anybody does not want to be part of those values, irrespective of where they sit in the organization, then ultimately they will have a choice. But we will not deviate away from our values.”

I hear that the association between Dennis and Alonso was already strained before Hungary. And the bond between Dennis and Hamilton definitely took a knock in Hungary. Both drivers watch Dennis’ every move to make sure he doesn’t favour one over the other, and Dennis is going to great lengths to prove both get absolutely equal treatment.

Things are being patched up within the team, but the rapport and the relationship between Ron, Lewis and Fernando has changed forever.

“We will continue to function as a Grand Prix team with specific values. And if anybody does not want to be part of those values, irrespective of where they sit in the organization, then ultimately they will have a choice. But we will not deviate away from our values.”

-Ron Dennis

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Photo by Jamie Maudsley

A True

“Flying Scotsman” Trackside Access with David Hatter

Scary crash at Michigan highlights the safety of IndyCar design

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Dan Wheldon and Dario Franchitti discuss the scary accident at Michigan with Danica Patrick

chassis he used to win the Indy 500. “Everyone is running so closely out there and moving around.

I’m thankful everyone is okay. I’ve also got to thank Scott Dixon because I told him it was a pretty soft landing and he said, ‘That’s because you landed on top of me.’”

Dixon, however, thought the situation could have been avoided if the entire field — then consisting of 14 cars — was not running together in one huge pack, separated by less than four seconds.

“The series really needs to bring in new cars

Photo by LAT Photographic

D

ario Franchitti has given new meaning to term “Flying Scotsman.” The 34year-old IndyCar driver from Edinburgh managed to get airborne and upside-down not once, but twice, on consecutive race weekends in August at Michigan and Kentucky Speedways.

Remarkably, but happily, he emerged virtually unscathed both times, suffering nothing worse than a bruised nose from the first crash at Michigan.

While both accidents were horrific, the first was the more terrifying as half-a-dozen cars got caught up in the carnage which began when Dan Wheldon banged wheels with race leader Franchitti at an estimated speed of more than 215 mph. The latter’s car was launched into the air, bounced back down onto the track upside-down and then rolled over the front of Scott Dixon’s car. Other drivers scattered, spun and/or collided in avoidance.

But the safety features on all the cars worked just as they were supposed to, as did the helmets, seatbelts and HANS devices. Everyone walked away, including Franchitti once the safety crew (aided by a helpful Sam Hornish Jr.) turned his car right side up. His head was protected through most of the ordeal by the roll hoop — a one-inch triangular metal bar tied to the carbon fibre tub behind the driver — although it did eventually shear off, while the cockpit retained its integrity.

“I’ve got to thank the people who make these cars safe,” said Franchitti, who was in the same

so that the better teams separate from the lesser teams and you get proper racing,” said the 2003 champion. “At the moment, it’s pack racing. It’s like NASCAR and these cars are not made to touch each other. People are going to get hurt.”

Franchitti had been the dominant driver at Michigan, hosting its last open wheel race before closure. He led most of the way from pole position.

Even when he stalled on his first pit stop, it was only a temporary setback. He charged back from last to first in just six green-flag laps. But as

Performance Racing News

9/7/07 4:50:34 PM

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A True “Flying Scotsman”

the race entered its second half, Wheldon mounted a serious challenge. And his front right wheel touched Franchitti’s left rear as they went down the back straight on lap 144 (of 200).

“Dario was trying to get down (the track) a little bit and I was trying to give myself a little bit of room and unfortunately we touched,” said Wheldon.

At the time, Franchitti was prepared to dismiss their collision as “just one of those things,” but after studying video and other data, he concluded that Wheldon was to blame. A week later, in Kentucky, he described himself as “angry at how it happened.” By then, IRL president Brian Barnhart had placed the entire field on probation, livid that only seven drivers finished Michigan. Besides those caught up in the Franchitti flip, six others crashed out in five separate accidents.

The Kentucky race was relatively clean — only two accidents and three caution periods — until after the finish. That is when Franchitti performed his encore and, this time, he had no one to blame but himself. He did not realize that the checkered flag had waved and he slammed into the back of the slowing, lapped car of Kosuke Matsuura.

Franchitti’s car did a back-flip, pirouetted on its nose and then went backwards into the wall.

“That one was completely my fault and there’s no excuse for it. I screwed up,” said Franchitti, who promptly apologized to Matsuura. “After the checkered, Kosuke lifted. I did’t realize it was the checkered. I got the, ‘Hey, it’s the checkered’ (from the spotter) just as I was hitting him. That could have been a big one. I’m really disgusted at myself for my mistake.”

Photo by Paul Webb/LAT

“Dario was trying to get down (the track) a little bit and I was trying to give myself a little bit of room and unfortunately we touched.” -Dan Wheldon

Is this Sam Hornish Jr.’s final year in IndyCar?

Double Departure?

If Franchitti can hold on to win the championship, there is speculation that he may leave the IRL, most likely for the relatively safe haven of sportscar competition (although some NASCAR partisans insist he is heading their way, citing his friendship with team owner Richard Childress).

Even if he might appear to be unfazed by his recent aerobatics, his movie star wife Ashley Judd was clearly not amused by what she saw from pit lane at Kentucky (she had not been at Michigan and did not see it live on TV).

She may want him to pursue a form of racing that does not involve interlocking wheels at 200-plus mph. And Andretti-Green Racing

(AGR) already runs an Acura in the American Le Mans Series (with Dario’s brother, Marino, among its drivers).

If Franchitti were to leave, he would likely be one of two big names to depart the IRL at the end of this season. It is widely believed that three-time champion Sam Hornish Jr., who has been running select NASCAR Busch events this year, will be racing stock cars full-time in 2008.

“We really haven’t decided what we are going to do yet,” said Hornish recently. But he added that NASCAR “is something I’m thinking about all the time. I know I would miss the Indy 500, but having won it last year, that would make it easier to live without.”

Silly Season Underway Speculation is already rife about his possible replacement at Team Penske if Sam Hornish decides to leave. Tony Kanaan, said to be Roger Penske’s first choice, is reportedly not interested in joining Brazilian buddy Castroneves in the red-and-white cars. Why should he? With AGR, he already has a season-high four wins so far this year.

Penske may have to turn to his current ALMS sportscar driver, Ryan Briscoe, although he is by no means a bad choice. The 2003 European F3 champion took fifth place at Indy this May, driving a third Penske entry, finished on the podium for Dreyer & Reinbold at Watkins Glen last year and previously drove for Chip Ganassi in 2005.

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Roger Penske may switch Ryan Briscoe from his ALMS team to replace Sam Hornish Jr.

Performance Racing News

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Spectacular Debut NASCAR’s first foray to Montreal is a major success from start to finish

By George Webster

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Things got off to a great start for local fans as hometown favourite Patrick Carpentier took the pole in his first-ever Busch start and finished fourth in the race

After the wildness of the closing laps, it was Cup regular Kevin Harvick that emerged with the win in NASCAR’s first race in Montreal

Veni, vidi, vici, (I came, I saw, I conquered).

B

rian France might be excused for applying Julius Caesar’s famous quote to NASCAR’s recent foray into Canada for its Busch race in Montreal. Everything went well – up to or beyond expectations. From NASCAR’s standpoint, the only blemish on the weekend was Robby Gordon’s blatant defiance of NASCAR’s iron rule in protest of their strange handling of the Ambrose-Gordon confrontation after the final caution flew. No doubt for many of the spectators, Gordon’s guns-blazing rebellion only added to the rough-and-ready action they expected to see in a NASCAR race.

The NASCAR Busch Series NAPA Auto Parts 200 in Montreal was a certifiable success. The grandstand seats were sold only as two-day tickets and all the seats were filled on Saturday, signifying that the event was a sellout. Indeed, most of the seats were filled on Friday as well.

In advance of the weekend, I had been reminding myself that this was “just a Busch race” with all the baggage that carries with it. Recently the Busch Series has been ambushed by many of the Nextel Cup teams who are using it as a opportunity to get extra practice laps on the Cup weekends. Last year, Cup driver Kevin Harvick ran away with the championship and eight of the top 10 in the championship race were Cup regulars — leaving slim pickings for any genuine Busch Series team trying to

use this series as an audition for the big time show.

This year Cup driver Carl Edwards had been even more dominant in the title race, only Cup drivers David Reutimann and Harvick are even close.

Given the general lack of significance of a ‘Busch’ championship race per se, the race at Montreal could better be described as a NASCAR exhibition race — and, as such, it had a great field of drivers. We may not be able to get a proper Cup race in Canada, but this one had eight Cup regulars in the lineup. In addition, there were seven Canadians in the race including Patrick Carpentier — a more-than-credible hero for the local francophones — and Ron Fellows, an established NASCAR road racing specialist for the anglophones.

Add to that an international field of road racers including Americans Scott Pruett, Boris Said, and Andy Lally, Mexicans Michael Jourdain and Jorge Goeters, Australian Marcos Ambrose, Italian Max Papis, Englishman Andy Pilgrim, Swede Nic Jonsson, and Venezuelan Andy Garcia and you’ve got a pretty interesting field that outshines the legendary Monza ‘Race of Two Worlds’ from the 1950s or anything from the IROC series after its first year.

Most of the race was actually fairly straightforward, punctuated by a few cautions for ‘oil’ and some staggered green-flag pits stops that saw local hero Carpentier, who had started from the pole (How good was that?), actually lead the race on three different occasions.

A host of big name road racers dropped in for the inaugural race in Canada and Max Papis stood tall with a thirdplace run

Performance Racing News

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Spectacular Debut

Canada’s favourite road racer Ron Fellows was poised to strike late in the race, but was spun out by contact from behind and had to settle for a fourth-place run

The preliminary races were also artistic successes. The Grand-Am race provided entertainment for Friday’s crowd, and which saw some close racing in the final laps, was won by the Taylor/Angelelli/Magnussen SunTrust Pontiac.

The NASCAR Canadian Tire race, run on Saturday morning, also saw some hard racing for position in the closing laps, the win going to Kerry Micks over Andrew Ranger (another local hero).

As would be expected, there was a strong NASCAR-International Speedway Corp. presence in Montreal headed up by NASCAR CEO Brian France and NASCAR President Mike Helton. You can assume that the deal between the Montreal organizers, co-promoter ISC and NASCAR is for several years. All three parties had to be pleased with the result of this weekend and we can expect this race to be a fixture on the Busch Series calendar for years to come.

As for the prospects of a NASCAR Sprint Cup race coming to Canada, don’t hold your breath.

If the success of Montreal were to be the springboard for any other NASCAR events in Canada, look for Craftsman Truck or Busch Series events, not Sprint Cup. In the wake of the removal of the USGP from the F1 calendar, the future of the Canadian Grand Prix may also be in jeopardy. The 2008 F1 calendar has an asterisk beside the Canada date marking it as “provisional.” Presumably this means that the Montreal organizer has to come up with more money for Bernie Ecclestone’s F1 organization.

The last time around this problem was solved by an injection pf cash from the then Liberal federal government. Given that this would have been seen as part of the “sponsorship scandal” that was a big part of the Conservatives’ election platform, it seems hard to believe that, now they are in power, the Conservative government will be inclined to “sponsor” the Grand Prix. If there are no more F1 races in Montreal, this NASCAR race could become the headliner race event in that city.

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Scott Pruett had another strong road race going in the late stages until he was spun by Kevin Harvick and ended up destroying Ron Fellows’ hopes for a win in the aftermath

Wild Finish When the cars came up to take the green with four laps to go, it looked like it was going to be a shootout between leader Ambrose and Gordon but as the cars barged into the first hairpin, Harvick put his nose inside Pruett’s car and spun him, this took Pruett and Fellows out of contention. The yellow flag was thrown immediately. Just ahead of the melee, Gordon made a move on Ambrose only to be spun by him. NASCAR freezes the field when the yellow comes out and the television replays clearly showed that the yellow was displayed before Gordon was spun off.

After that, it seemed like there was a period of confusion in NASCAR control — but well before the signal to line up for the final (greenwhite-checker) restart Gordon was told to drop back to start in 13th place. Gordon reasoned that he should be starting in the position he was in when the yellow flew (first or second place) and, when he was given the black flag on the restart, that he had three laps before he had to pit. And he knew that if he dropped back he would never be given back those lost places if he won the argument after the race ended. It turned out that he was wrong on both assumptions — if you

don’t maintain the pace behind the leader under caution, you lose those places even if the leader spun you out under caution — and he did not have any grace period before he had to obey the black flag.

So we were treated to the spectacle of a disqualified Gordon spinning Ambrose and taking the lead — and continuing to sprint off ahead of Harvick for the remaining two laps until the checker flew. Then, if that was not enough, he came around onto the front straight and did the traditional burnouts as if he had won the race.

Meanwhile both Harvick and second-placefinisher Carpentier also did a few burnouts.

The NASCAR officials, who are used to ruling like Mafia dons, must have been apoplectic at Gordon’s show of defiance.

Carpentier had been so far back on the secondlast restart that he was off my lap chart. How he managed to emerge from all this mess in second place, I will never understand. Papis came home third making the ‘podium’ group a nice mix of Cup driver Harvick, Canadian favourite Carpentier, and international road racer Papis. Fellows, who had looked set for a third- or fourth-place finish before the melee, wound up fourth.

Robby Gordon took out his frustrations with NASCAR officials by spinning Marcos Ambrose late, ending the Australian’s chance at what looked like a sure victory

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Kerry Micks won a classic battle with Andrew Ranger to take the “biggest win of my career”

hile the finish of the inaugural NASCAR Busch Series event in Montreal will be talked about for years following Kevin Harvick and Robby Gordon’s dueling doughnuts, the finish of the inaugural NASCAR Canadian Tire Series event at Circuit Gilles-Villenevue was every bit as exciting. And a lot closer.

The top two cars came down the front stretch to the checkers separated by mere 0.103 seconds.

Previously this season, when the tours’ drivers have been asked to turn both left and right, Andrew Ranger and J.R. Fitzpatrick have been the two most impressive drivers, developing a little competition between themselves.

The rivalry started at Mosport as the duo was fastest all weekend, including having to share the front row. The event ended with Ranger making a slam-and-run pass coming off Turn 5 with eight laps left.

The announced attendance for Saturday was 69,000, or which there were at least 50,000 on hand for the Canadian Tire event.

Jeff Lapcevich ran up front all day, but contact with fellow road racing ace Robin Buck left him with a ninth-place finish

Fantastic

finish

By Jamie Maudsley | Photos by Ramesh Bayney

Fans in Montreal received two great races for the price of one during the NASCAR weekend, but the best was a classic finish to the Canadian Tire Series race between Kerry Micks and Andrew Ranger.

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At the Grand Prix of Edmonton, the rivalry intensified as Ranger captured the pole, with Fitzpatrick second, but it was Fitzpatrick with the last lap pass to capture the win.

At both those events, a wily veteran was in the wings, sizing up both youngsters for the most prestigious race of the season.

Fitzpatrick won this battle, nipping Ranger for the pole, while the same veteran circled in third.

Kerry Micks, who qualified fourth and third at the previous two races, joked about the youngsters, “Someone has to hang out with the kids.

They are both fast racers, but this place is a challenge, and I think I’m going to try and let them wear their stuff out early in the race, and save what I have for the end.”

Micks, a hard charger since he first held a steering wheel, saw his game plan fly out the window as soon as the green dropped. Ranger missed a shift, sending him back into the field, while Micks took off after Fitzpatrick. He got by the defending series champ once on the first lap, but overshot the next corner and gave the top spot back. Micks claimed the lead again on lap two and this time held on.

For Fitzpatrick, it would be a tough weekend on powerplants. He blew one up in a Thursday practice session for the Busch race (and would blow another in the Busch feature), while the

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Fantastic finish

Veteran Robin Buck returned to the cockpit in Montreal and took the final step on the podium

engine on his Canadian Tire Series car erupted on lap 13 of the NAPA Autopro 100, leaving Ranger who had climbed up to the front to battle Micks for the win.

Robin Buck and Jeff Lapcevich were also fast throughout the weekend. Both are former road course winners in CASCAR, and started fifth and ninth, respectively. Buck battled inside the topfive all race, while Lapcevich took some time to work his way into contention. With just five laps to go, and Lapcevich in third ahead of Buck, the pair made contact heading into Turn 1. Lapcevich spun and scrambled to a ninth-place finish.

The battle up front was epic, as by the time the third and final yellow flew, Ranger was on Micks’ rear bumper for the restart. Ranger made a move to the front on lap 20 and would hold serve for a couple of circuits. As the leaders were coming to the white flag, Micks closed on Ranger and the pair made contact through the Dodge hairpin.

Micks stayed close until the final chicane, when he slowed off the curbing. “The car popped out of gear,” he explained. “I slammed it back into gear, and I never gave up, but that could have done us in.”

Trouble for Micks was Ranger’s gain, as the Quebec native pulled out to a 12-car lead heading into Turn 1 for the final time, with the near capacity Montreal crowd cheering wildly. But Micks didn’t give up, and on the backside of the track he drove his car in deeper and deeper, catching Ranger again at Dodge corner. Following some more contact, the pair headed out of the hairpin on the final run to the checkers.

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As the pair appeared in the final chicane, Micks darted out of line and pulled alongside Ranger. “All weekend long, I had been braking at the ‘5’ going into that corner. When I finally got on the brakes, I knew I was well past the 5.”

Micks’ Ford bounced off the concrete curbing and into the air, while making contact with the Wal Mart machine of Ranger, and as they both – kind of – made legitimate attempts at the corners, Kerry held an advantage on to the front stretch. Ranger moved to the left to make a final run, but Micks blocked the move. Ranger saw it coming and with a full head of steam darted right and pulled alongside. They were side-by-side in a drag race, with the checkered flag in sight. Micks moved to the right, making enough contact to slow up Ranger and allowing him to capture the victory by the width of a bumper.

Micks, who has won big races before, including last year in Montreal as part of the Champ Car weekend, and at the Grand Prix of Toronto spoke about how much it meant to him to win in

Hometown favourite Andrew Ranger came up just short of the top step in a great last lap duel with Kerry Micks

Montreal. “This is the biggest win of my career!

We won the undercard of a Busch Series race in Canada, in front of grandstands that were pretty much full at 10:30 in the morning.”

Ranger was puzzled with the lack of a call for Micks jumping the cushion in the final chicane on the last lap, was gracious in defeat. “This will help us in the championship, and with all the ovals at the end of the season, I’m going to need as much of a cushion as I can get. We got behind early when I missed a shift on the start, but we were able to fight back and have a wild race with Kerry at the end.”

He then summed up the effect of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series event at Montreal, saying, “For a morning start, I’m so proud of all the people that were in the stands.”

The announced attendance for Saturday was 69,000, or which there were at least 50,000 on hand for the Canadian Tire event. That’s 50,000 sets of eyes that will never forget the show Micks and Ranger put on, trying to be the first winner of a NASCAR race on Canadian motorsports’ most famous island.

JR Fitzpatrick had nothing but car trouble in Montreal, in both the Busch and Canadian Tire race, as the polesitter suffered engine failure juts 13 laps into the race

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SPECIAL FEATURE

NEVER

GIVE UP

Story BY Jamie Maudsley // PHOTOS BY Ramesh Bayney

DJ Kennington was born to be a racer and as he turns 30, the veteran driver is chasing a Canadian Tire Series championship as well as his dream of racing in NASCAR south of the border.

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he first time DJ Kennington sat in the wheel of a go-kart, he didn’t look like the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series title contender he is today. As his father tells it, he ended up running into a tractor in his dad’s yard of semis.

Despite that early wreck, he got the kart out from under the truck and was determined to continue. “I guess I had the itch to race even when I was that young,” explained Kennington, who just turned 30 years old in the middle of August. “It’s an itch I haven’t managed to scratch out yet.”

The 2007 season has been a busy one for Kennington. In addition to a full slate of races on the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Sirius Satellite Radio, Kennington made one start at his home track of Delaware Speedway in a Late Model Sportsman, and has competed in six NASCAR Busch Series races.

After a couple of part-time campaigns in the Hooters ProCup series, Kennington landed himself a Busch car

last year, with the MacDonald Motorsports Team. The team is owned by a former Nextel Cup driver and fellow Canadian Randy MacDonald, a native of Oshawa, ON. It was a challenging season, as the team struggled to find speed, and failed to qualifying for a number of events until late October when DJ made his first career start at Memphis Motorsports Park.

Kennington would record a 23rd-place showing. “It was awesome to make my first Busch start. We only missed qualifying by a bit at Bristol and Dover, and once we finally got in the field we ran well.”

On to 2007 and the regulars in the Busch garage are starting to recognize the kid from St. Thomas, ON. Kennington finished 27th at Phoenix, before a crash took him out of the Richmond event. Because of his limited Superspeedway experience, Kennington got a few races off before returning to the seat in Dover, where he put down a solid 23rd-place result. He followed that up with top-30 runs in Milwaukee and at O’Reilly Speed-

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way Park in Indianapolis in late July before heading to Montreal for the historic first Busch race at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.

Kennington showed that he can turn left and right as he started 27th and climbed into the top-20 with just 10 laps on the board. He was looking at a top-15 finish, and possibly better before the transmission let go on the car ending his day. Never one to give up, Kennington will again try to qualify at Bristol as well as a number of other events before the end of the season.

“It is what it is,” Kennington explained, speaking his opportunity. “It’s not the same equipment that Kevin Harvick or Carl Edwards gets, but it’s a shot and for the past 10 years that’s all I’ve been asking for.”

Kennington’s stock car career kicked off in June of 1994, the day after he got his driver’s license. Kennington tasted success in his first night out, winning a heat race and spent the remainder of 1994 and a number of seasons after that competing at Delaware on Friday nights as well as on the CASCAR Super Series trail.

The 2005 season was Kennington’s most successful tour of duty on the CASCAR Super Series. That was

In addition to a full slate of races on the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Sirius Satellite Radio, Kennington made one start at his home track of Delaware Speedway in a Late Model Sportsman, and has competed in six NASCAR Busch Series races. the season he won both races out west, at Vernon and Calgary, and backed it up with a win at Mosport. But Kennington wasn’t through for the season, as he led 195 of 250 laps in the season finale at Kawartha to lock up second place in the championship.

This season has been hit or miss for the Castrol sponsored pilot. He opened the season winning the pole at Cayuga, but the day ended a few laps in when a bracket broke. “That was a real letdown. To win the pole for the first race was really cool, but I would have rather won the race itself.”

Kennington bounced back with a top-five at Mosport International Raceway, and then had his highlight run of the season so far, winning at Barrie Speedway on Canada Day weekend. “That was an awesome win, and really helped us get back in the thick of the title race.”

Kennington would use a couple more fourth-place finishes in Edmonton and Montreal to help his cause, but with just four races left he sat fifth, and while not out of the championship, it’s still a long shot from here.

“We’ll do our best and see where we’re at when all the dust settles. Regardless, it’s been a good season. I’ve got to race in Busch races, and we won at Barrie. We’ll just have to see where we are at the end of 2007 and get geared up for next season, but we’re not giving up on the Canadian Tire Series championship yet.”

Spoken like someone who would never give up, in either a stock car or a go-kart.

“Regardless, it’s been a good season. I’ve got to race in Busch races, and we won at Barrie. We’ll just have to see where we are at the end of 2007 and get geared up for next season, but we’re not giving up on the Canadian Tire Series championship yet.”

Performance Racing News

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Photo by Ramesh Bayney

Let the Madness Commence Trading Paint with Monte Dutton

E

veryone knew this was the year NASCAR would drastically change its cars, welcome a new manufacturer and enlist a foreign driver. Somewhat overlooked was the onset of “the new math.”

For the top drivers, the old point standings don’t matter. As those with a reasonably secure spot in the Chase entered the final regular-season races, there was absolutely no reason for them to care about points. The only thing that mattered was getting in the Chase. Once in, everything would be graded on a curve.

For instance, Jeff Gordon left Watkins Glen, NY, on Aug. 12 with a 344-point lead over Denny Hamlin. Those were 344 irrelevant points. Under the new format implemented for this season, the top 12 would, at regular season’s end, be aligned on the basis of victories, not points.

By the stretch drive for the postseason, Gordon, Hamlin, Matt Kenseth, Tony Stewart, Carl Edwards, Jeff Burton, Jimmie Johnson and Kyle Busch were all but in. How those drivers performed in relation to one another made absolutely no difference.

On the other hand, in the nether regions of the top 12, points were virtually all that mattered.

Entering the final four “regular season” races, Clint Bowyer needed to remain in the top 12 and his margin over 13th place (Ryan Newman at the time) was 234 points. Kevin Harvick was up by 222. Martin Truex Jr.’s edge was 154, and Kurt Busch’s was 96. Newman was, likewise, down 96 to 12th-place Kurt Busch, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. trailed by 100.

In other words, the point racers were Bowyer, Harvick, Truex, Kurt Busch, Newman and Earnhardt. Footloose and fancy free were Gordon, Hamlin, Kenseth, Stewart, Edwards, Burton, Johnson and Kyle Busch.

“No, the points don’t matter,” said Hamlin. “If you don’t win, it doesn’t matter too much now where you finish. All that matters, when people 50

look at the standings, your name is a little bit further away from the lead.”

They’ll all get together again — at least in terms of all being apples — on Sept. 16, when the Chase commences in New Hampshire. For the final 10 races, there will be 12 apples racing for the championship and 31 oranges trying with varying degrees of diligence to get out of the way.

The cars are just alike, but the drivers aren’t.

Gordon has put together one of the truly great seasons in NASCAR history in terms of consistency. In the first 21 races, he finished outside the top 10 twice.

But when Stewart filled Gordon’s rear-view mirror in the waning laps at Watkins Glen, and Gordon inexplicably lost control of his Chevy on the next-to-last lap, it was obvious the strain was showing.

Stewart’s victory at the Glen was his third in a span of four races. His meaningless deficit to Gordon was 445 points. The actual deficit, thanks to a Chase format based on victories, was 10, the margin being based on the difference between Gordon’s four victories at the time and Stewart’s three. When Stewart won the Allstate 400 at Indianapolis on July 29 — and Gordon finished third — he gained 30 points on Gordon in that race alone.

Never, at least not in NASCAR, has the head wearing the crown felt so uneasy. The impending craziness was carefully planned by NASCAR officials to promote excitement at the expense of fairness.

The favourites are clearly the drivers with the most wins, and Gordon, Johnson and Stewart were the only drivers with more than one victory after the first 22 races. Gordon has been the most consistent, Stewart the most spectacular and Johnson the reigning champion from 2006.

There are going to be 12 with an almost even shot, though, when the Chase begins, at which time we can join NASCAR chairman Brian France in yelling, “Let the madness commence!”

“No, the points don’t matter.

If you don’t win, it doesn’t matter too much now where you finish. All that matters, when people look at the standings, your name is a little bit further away from the lead.”

-Denny Hamlin

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Gronholm has the

Photos by McKlein/LAT

2007 WORLD RALLY EVENTS

Edge

With just six rounds remaining the Finnish driver holds an eight-point lead over Sebastien Loeb

By David Hatter

M

arcus Gronholm and Sebastien Loeb, the two protagonists for the 2007 World Rally Championship, have each set new records in winning their respective “home” events — most wins and most consecutive wins for single rallies. In the overall title chase, Gronholm continues to lead Loeb, but by just eight points, with six rounds remaining.

After a two-month summer hiatus, the WRC resumed in Finland where Gronholm took his seventh win in eight years on the Rally of the 1,000 Lakes.

In doing so, he became the first driver ever to win a single WRC event seven times. Since 2000, his only loss was in 2003 due to mechanical failure.

He was fastest on 17 of 23 stages. Teammate and fellow Finn, Mikko Hirvonen, made it a 1-2 finish for the factory BP Ford team, debuting the latest evolution of its Focus WRC. Loeb had to settle for third in his works Citroen C4, more than a minute behind the winner and 45 seconds adrift of Hirvonen. Chris Atkinson was fourth for Subaru, but team leader Petter Solberg retired with a hydraulics failure causing steering and transmission problems. His brother, Henning Solberg, was fifth in a private M-Sport Ford.

With his win, Gronholm stretched his advantage over Loeb to 13 points, the greatest gap between them all season. But it was cut considerably when the Frenchman rebounded by winning the Rallye Deutschland, which he describes as his “home” event, even though it is not in his own country. It takes place in the extreme Western part of 52

Germany, just a few kilometres across the border from his native French province of Alsace.

It was in Germany that Loeb took his first WRC win in 2002, the event’s inaugural appearance on the calendar, and he has never been beaten since.

His sixth straight victory established a new record for most consecutive wins on any event — although his one-time teammate, Francois Duval, driving a private Citroen Xsara, made him work for it.

Duval led after day one. A couple of minor offcourse excursions on day two dropped him to third, behind Loeb and Gronholm. But the Belgian set fastest time on every stage on the third and final leg and Gronholm seemingly succumbed to the pressure. Going into the final stage with just a five-second edge, he went off the road and damaged his Ford’s rear suspension. He fell to fourth behind Loeb, Duval and Hirvonen.

This was Gronholm’s worst finish all season. Officially, he was also fourth in Portugal, but only after stewards penalized him two places on a minor technicality. Otherwise, the consistent Finn has never been off the podium. He blamed his mishap on being momentarily distracted by a cow at the side of the road, rather than pressure from Duval.

Whatever the reason, his lead over Loeb shrank to eight points, 80-72. Hirvonen, with 63, also remains in contention.

As for Duval, the 26-year-old Belgian may have reignited his stalled career. After taking his lone WRC win in Australia at the end of 2005, he immediately lost his ride with the factory

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Marcus Gronholm set a WRC record by becoming the first driver to win one rally seven times in a career when he triumphed at Finland

Francois Duval gave former teammate Sebastien Loeb a great run in Germany but in the end had to settle for second on the podium Performance Racing News

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Gronholm has the Edge

Jan Kopecky was the revelation of the Rally Germany as the Czech driver completed the top-five Sebastien Loeb etched his name in the record book again when he captured the Rally Germany for the sixth straight year

Citroen Sport team, as it was going on a one-year hiatus for 2006. It arranged a temporary ride for Loeb with its designated privateer representative, Kronos Racing — but not for the sometimes crash-prone Duval, even though Kronos is a Belgian-based operation.

Through 2006 and early 2007, Duval competed only occasionally in the WRC, usually in an uncompetitive Skoda Fabia, with a best result of sixth in Spain. But he was not forgotten by his Belgian supporters or Kronos boss Marc Van Dalen, recently reduced to running a single Xsara for Manfred Stohl, after carrying the Citroen torch so capably in 2006.

Van Dalen found funding for a second car in Germany — an event popular with nearby

Belgian fans — and for him, Duval was the clear driver choice. “I have confidence in him and simply told him to have fun. That seems to have worked.”

Duval was fastest on seven of 19 stages — more than anyone else, even Loeb, who was quickest five times. Had it not been for his problems on day two — those two minor “offs” and stalling at the start of another stage — he could well have challenged Loeb for the win. As it was, he finished just 20 seconds behind.

The other revelation in Germany was 25-year-old Czech driver Jan Kopecky, who finished an impressive fifth in an aging Skoda Fabia, successfully fending off a challenge from 2003 WRC champion Petter Solberg by seven seconds.

Radical Calendar Changes The World Rally Championship calendar is poised to undergo radical restructuring as soon as 2009. It will likely mean that most, if not all, countries will have the chance to host a full WRC event only once every two years.

The plan has been advanced by FIA president Max Mosley as a means to resolve a long-festering conundrum. More and more nations want WRC rallies — there are at least six candidates vying for a spot on the schedule.

But the manufacturers complain the calendar is already too crowded. They would prefer to have fewer rounds, meaning reduced costs. It is expensive to send their teams, with hundreds of personnel, to the existing 16 rallies on four different continents.

54

Mosley has political reasons to satisfy as many countries as possible. In most cases, the rallies involve the national sporting authorities whose delegates will be voting in the 2008 FIA presidential election. But after he pushed through an expansion from 14 to 16 rounds in 2004, increased costs were cited as one reason why three manufacturers (Peugeot, Mitsubishi, Skoda) withdrew their factory teams by the end of 2005.

Mosley’s proposed solution — accepted in principle by the FIA World Council in June — is to expand the total number of WRC rallies to 24, but alternate them. In other words, 12 rallies would be full WRC rounds one year; the other 12 the next season. In their “off ” years, these rallies would host other FIA

championships, such as the World Production Cup or the Junior World Championship, both now held in conjunction with the WRC. During the debate in June, some members of the World Council proposed that certain older, traditional events — such as the Rallies of Monte Carlo and Great Britain — be “grandfathered” and retain full WRC status every year. The council will vote on the precise details of the plan in October, with a target implementation date of 2009.

In general, the plan seems a reasonable compromise, but the grandfathering option should be seriously considered. It would be strange to have the Monte Carlo, a landmark event since the 1920s, reduced to a Production Cup round.

Performance Racing News

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tight battle at mid season

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Just two points separate L’Estage and Comrie-Picard after the Baie-des-Chaleurs

Photos by ESPN Images/Shazamm

A

s the 2007 Canadian Rally Championship reaches its mid-point, defending titlist Antoine L’Estage has taken over the lead from Andrew Comrie-Picard, but it remains a close battle with just two points between them.

L’Estage took his second victory of the season in round three, the Rallye Baie-des-Chaleurs on the Gaspé peninsula of Québec. It was a comfortable win as the Hyundai Tiburon driver and his partner Nathalie Richard finished a little over two minutes ahead of Comrie-Picard’s Mitsubishi Lancer.

The result mirrored that of the preceding Rocky Mountain Rally. But ACP’s win on the Perce-Neige opener — where L’Estage went off the road and ended up third — means the Toronto-based driver is still very much in contention. He has 56 points to L’Estage’s 58. They are well clear of third-placed Martin Gauvin (24 points).

“We’ve led every event and if you look at the time sheets, it’s never been really tight,” said L’Estage.

“Andrew has done a great job and been consistent, but without our mistake at Perce-Niege, it would be a different story. I beat myself at Perce-Neige.”

L’Estage says that a DNF at any of the three remaining events — the Défi Ste-Agathe/Duhamel in Québec, the Pacific Forest in BC and the Tall Pines in Ontario — would be difficult to overcome, but he does not plan to change his approach.

“I’m confident we can win these t hree rallies. I am not there to finish second,” said the 34-year-old driver from St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC, who recently secured backing from Hyundai Canada. “They’re now one of our major sponsors. It’s great to see a manufacturer getting involved. We are happy to have their financial support and hopefully it’s the beginning of a long-term relationship.”

L’Estage largely dominated at Baie-des-Chaleurs, held on mostly muddy roads due to recent rain. He won four of six stages on Friday night to open up a lead of two minutes, 44 seconds over local favourite Gauvin, in a production Subaru Impreza. ComriePicard, who had some turbo gremlins, was a further 11 seconds back, while Sylvain Erickson retired after hitting a bridge and damaging the engine of his Impreza.

L’Estage then drove conservatively on the Saturday, while ACP — his turbo now working properly — overhauled Gauvin for second place and closed on the leader slightly for a final margin of

By David Hatter

Antoine L’Estage took the lead in the Canadian Rally Championship at the Baie-des-Chaleurs and then made his first appearance at the X Games but was eliminated when his car was damaged after a jump in final practice

Andrew Comrie-Picard is only two points back in the Canadian title hunt, but had a good run to the quarter-finals at the X Games before losing to Silver Medalist Ken Block

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The second visit for rally cars to the X Games was another big success as Tanner Foust surprised everyone in taking the Gold

two minutes, three seconds.

“We attacked very hard from the beginning on Friday and our main rivals encountered some problems,” said L’Estage. “On Saturday, it was simply a question of managing the situation.”

Gauvin took top production class honours. Two more members of the L’Estage family finished in the top five as Laurence-Fanny L’Estage, the winner’s sister, co-drove with Joel Levac to fourth place and brother Mathieu took fifth. Both were in open-class Imprezas. Sixth place went to Réjean Losier, who had finally rebuilt the Mitsubishi Lancer that he virtually

destroyed on the 2004 Tall Pines. This was his first rally back since then.

Around North America A few weeks later, Réjean’s 24-year-old son, Simon Losier, captured the 2007 Coupe du Québec provincial championship with a fourth-place finish at the Rallye des Draveurs. The leader going into this fourth and final round was Simon Dubé, but he lost a wheel on his VW Golf GTI and ended up one point behind Losier. The winner of the event was Maxime Labrie in a Honda Civic.

Following Baie-des-Chaleurs, L’Estage headed to Maine for the New England Forest Rally, where he was the runner-up, just seven seconds behind reigning U.S. champion Travis Pastrana. The result qualified him for the 13th annual X-Games in Los Angeles in early August. Comrie-Picard had already qualified.

As it turned out, the extreme sport festival — featuring rally cars for a second year — was not a particularly rewarding experience for either Canadian. It was not really a full rally, but rather just a single stage within the stadium of the Home Depot Center — featuring some massive jumps — and the parking lot outside.

The jumps claimed both Canadians. L’Estage’s car landed on its nose during final practice and damage was too extensive for him to take part in the main event, which was a head-to-head knockout competition. ACP was eliminated in the quarter finals, losing to factory Subaru driver Ken Block, after failing to complete a jump.

Block went on to the final, but lost the gold medal to Tanner Foust. The two pre-event favourites, Pastrana and former world rally champion Colin McRae (first and second last year), were eliminated in the semis.

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3/8/07 11:34:53 AM 3:47:42 PM 9/7/07

On the Road with David Hatter

By David Hatter | Photos by Ramesh Bayney

Patrick Carpentier’s debut in NASCAR resulted in a second-place run at Montreal and he followed that by leading his very first foray into Cup competition at Watkins Glen.

58

making an IMPRESSION P

atrick Carpentier is off to a great start in what he hopes will be a long and successful NASCAR career. He earned pole position and finished second in his Busch debut in front of his home fans at Montreal’s Circuit GillesVilleneuve. And the following week, at Watkins Glen, he led for seven laps in his very first Nextel Cup race.

“Three of the finest hours of my life,” he said of the Cup event, which took place on the eve of his 36th birthday. “Damn, I enjoyed that. I just wanted to finish the race. I never thought I would find myself in the lead and I led seven laps. It was really fun. Once in front, I was so excited I could barely even hear the radio. They told me it was Tony Stewart and Jeff Gordon behind, but I never saw them because my seat was too low in relation to my mirror.”

Perhaps most importantly, his performances impressed both his team owners — Ray Evernham in Cup and Armando Fitz in Busch — and while nothing is finalized yet, both have indicated they would like to run him again. “This is the biggest thing that has happened in my career,” said Carpentier. “Even though my victories in CART

(Champ Car) were big, especially in Canada, I have never been recognized as much as I am now.”

“We gotta talk,” Evernham told him before leaving the Glen on his private jet to take a short holiday. Montreal Canadiens owner George Gillett recently bought a majority share of Evernham Motorsports, which is seeking at least one, possibly two Cup drivers for next season. It is replacing Scott Riggs and may also be adding a fourth car.

“I really think the best place for me is with Evernham,” said Carpentier, citing Gillett’s Montreal ties. He hails from Joliette, about 50 km northeast of the city (although he has lived for several years in Las Vegas).

Meanwhile, Fitz wants to see how Carpentier handles an oval and has said he may run him in the Busch races at Kansas City (Sept. 29) and/or Phoenix (Nov. 10). Both are tracks he knows from his 2005 IRL IndyCar season. Since leaving the IRL, he has mostly been racing sportscars, but has always maintained that NASCAR is his ultimate goal.

“It’s been two years that I have been working for this,” said Carpentier, who has now abandoned his Daytona Prototype ride with Samax Motors-

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CanadianS

ABOUND in Montreal

It was “like winning the lottery” for Michael Valiante as he raced in Montreal for Ganassi Racing

While Carpentier dominated the headlines during NASCAR’s Montreal visit, seven other Canadians were among the 43 starters in this country’s first Busch race. Ron Fellows ended up fourth despite late-race contact with Scott Pruett. John Graham finished 23rd, three laps down. Mike Mackenzie, Michael Valiante, Trevor Boys and D.J. Kennington all retired before the 25-lap mark with transmission woes. John Fitzpatrick Jr. went out on the opening lap with an electrical failure.

Valiante, like Carpentier, comes from Grand-Am Daytona Prototypes and was also making his NASCAR debut in a Chip Ganassi-entered Dodge, usually driven by Montoya. Second fastest to Carpentier in final practice, he was disappointed to qualify just 21st.

When asked if he too might contemplate a permanent switch to NASCAR, the 26-year-old from Vancouver said: “Every time you drive NASCAR, it’s like winning the lottery because you earn so much money. From a financial standpoint, NASCAR is the place to be. But I didn’t start racing for money, but because I love to drive.”

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“Three of the finest hours of my life. Damn, I enjoyed that. I just wanted to finish the race.

I never thought I would find myself in the lead and I led seven laps...” port in the Grand-Am Sports Car Series in order to concentrate fully on his stock car pursuits. His last Grand-Am race was in Montreal on the eve of his NASCAR Busch debut (although he did only a dozen laps at the start before handing over to co-driver Kris Szekeres, who finished 10th).

Carpentier — whose previous stock car experience was limited to a single 2006 CASCAR event — was fastest in the very first Busch practice session at Montreal in his Zellers-sponsored Dodge Charger. He was also quickest in the final session, so it was not a total surprise when he claimed pole position.

Everyone was concerned about how the brakes would last on these 3,400-lb. cars around such a twisty circuit. So even before the start, Carpentier said he would probably fall in behind some more experienced drivers and try to follow their pace. He duly surrendered the lead to Boris Said on lap 7 and, after the first round of pit stops, settled into fifth.

Carpentier retook the lead on lap 40 as most frontrunners pitted under caution, gambling that with enough yellow flag laps, they could reach the finish without another stop. As it turned out, they were right. But Fitz did not think his car was getting good enough mileage and kept his driver out until lap 46.

That green flag stop, combined with a brief spin after being hit by Brad Coleman, dropped Carpentier to 17th. But he passed a few cars and successfully avoided a huge multi-car pile-up on a late restart to climb to fifth. More carnage on the final restart, as Robby Gordon ran Marcus Ambrose off the road, elevated him to second behind Kevin Harvick.

“Honestly, with all that happened between Gordon and Ambrose, I didn’t even know I was second. I thought I was third. All I wanted was to pass the car in front of me. Perhaps it was best I didn’t know I was fighting for the lead, because I would perhaps have pushed too hard,” said Carpentier. “Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought of finishing second. It’s the biggest result of my career.”

Fitz promptly asked him to drive again in the following week’s race at the Glen and then came Evernham’s invitation to make his Cup debut.

Carpentier’s first trip to Evernham’s headquarters in North Carolina was an eye-opener. He saw

Performance Racing News

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Making an Impression

“…I didn’t even know I was second. I thought I was third… Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought of finishing second.

It’s the biggest result of my career.” three separate factories — each one of them significantly bigger than the whole Forsythe Racing Champ Car operation in Indianapolis — plus a hanger and private landing strip. “I knew NASCAR was big, but never big like this,” he said.

Carpentier, driving a Dodge Avenger, was among the 10 fastest in practice for the Nextel Cup race, but had to start 37th after qualifying was rained out. By pitting later than most others, he inherited the lead from lap 31 to 37. Late in the race, he was running 18th when he was pushed off the road by Jeremy Mayfield. He fell to 29th, but recovered to finish 22nd.

As for the Busch race at the Glen, he ran as high as second — again through pitting late — but ended up 19th after being spun out by Ambrose with six laps to go.

Villeneuve Eyes NASCAR Debut While Carpentier plans for his NASCAR future, he knows he is not the only Quebec driver doing so. Jacques Villeneuve tested a Toyota Tundra truck for Bill Davis Racing at Chicagoland Speedway on Aug. 27. He is expected to make his debut in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at Las Vegas on Sept. 22, with a view to running Nextel Cup next season.

Carpentier has mixed feelings about Villeneuve’s arrival. “I’d like to say I’m super happy that Jacques has found a ride, but the truth is I am torn,” he said. “Team owners follow trends when it comes to hiring drivers. With ( Juan) Montoya doing well, it’s raised the profile of open wheel guys. Jacques has to do well too or it could make my task more difficult. I also know there’s an unofficial limit on foreign drivers and Jacques has just taken one of those places.”

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9/7/2007 10:40:17 AM

NSX Sweeps

Podi u m Round 5 Autobacs Super GT

Photos Courtesy SuperGT.net

By PRNMAG.com

T

he Sugo GT 300 km, Round 5 of the 2007 Autobacs Super GT, took place on July 29 and in the GT500 class, victory went to the second-place qualifier, ARTA NSX (Daisuke Ito and Ralph Firman), while GT300 honours went to the WedsSport Celica (Akira Iida and Yuhi Sekiguchi).

GT500 Early morning rain meant most of the competition had to change tires, and that led to trouble for some. The cars on the grid started behind the safety car (SC) and the first six laps of the race were run that way. During this time, the No. 24 Woodone Advan Clarion Z (Joao Paulo Lima De Oliveira) took the gamble of returning to the pit to switch to heavy rain tires.

On the seventh lap the SC turned into the pit lane and the pole sitting No. 18 Takata Dome NSX (Takashi Kogure) pulled away. The second-place running No. 8 ARTA NSX (Ralph Firman) and the rest of the top five starters remained in their starting order. However, a drive-through penalty for the 62

No. 24 changed things as the gamble of returning to the pit to change tires led to a reverse of fortunes as the car failed to stop for the red light at the end of the pit lane.

After lap 10, the pace of No. 18 began to slow as it encountered back-markers. Trouble with its windshield wipers and poor visibility made it impossible to pick up the pace, allowing the No. 8 to slip past for the lead. Then No. 32 also closed in on No. 18, but by this time the rain had stopped and No. 32 could not keep pace on the drying track.

Moving up was the No. 1 Houzan Tom’s SC430 (Andre Lotterer). On lap 26, No. 32 almost ran off the track coming out of the number three corner and No. 1 was able to slip past into third. The No. 1 was then on a charge closing in on the tail of the No. 18. The pair battled for several laps while the leading No. 8 made its pit stop. Drivers were changed from Firman to Daisuke Ito, the tires changed to slicks as the rest of the competition would at their stops.

After all the stops were completed, the No. 1 had the lead followed closely by the No. 18. Both

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NSX Sweep Podium

Daisuke Ito and Ralph Firman took their second GT500 win of 2007 at Round 5

It was a great battle throughout the race, but in the end Takashi Kogure and Ryo Michigami had to settle for second

Akira Iida and Yuhi Sekiguchi made great progress throughout the GT300 race and were rewarded with the win

Shogo Mitsuyama and Shigekazu Wakisaka held the GT300 lead late in the race, but were bumped to second thanks to a brilliant pass in the late stages by the No. 19

cars had to run slow laps until their tires warmed up allowing the No. 8 to close in on them from behind. An intense battle developed in the following laps. For the next 10 laps the three machines put on a clinic until the No. 1 was penalized for running over the white line on its pit stop. Thus, the No. 1 fell back to fifth, putting the No. 8 in the lead followed by No. 18. The No. 32 (Fabio Carbone) inherited third, giving the NSX a 1-2-3 sweep.

GT300 In GT300, third-place qualifier, the No. 13 Endless Advan Senzaikakumei Z (Masami Kageyama), took the big gamble of starting the race with slick tires. This turned out to be a mistake that caused Kageyama to lose a lot of ground in the early stages. Starting second, the No. 43 ARTA Garaiya (Morio Nitta) also had trouble warming its tires and fell to fourth. This allowed the No. 46 Houzan Dunlop Z (Kota Sasaki) and the No. 62 Willcom Advan VEMAC408R (Hiroki Kurosawa) to move up and give chase the pole sitting No. 2 Privée Kenzo Asset Shiden (Hiroki Kato).

64

Meanwhile, the No. 77 Cusco Dunlop Subaru Impreza (Tetsuya Yamano) was moving up at a blazing pace from its 15th-position start.

While the competition struggled with the wet track surface, Yamano was able to take full advantage of his machine’s 4-wheel drive and by lap 11 he was fourth. By lap 14 he passed No. 62 and set himself up for a podium finish. On lap 20, the second-place No. 46 damaged its right rear fender in a brush with another car, which brought out an orange flag.

This put the Impreza in second, but just as it looked like overtaking the leader was an impossible mission, Yamano made his move and took the lead.

After the full round of pit stops, the No. 77 had a 10-second lead and appeared bound for victory. However, several laps later Yamano was forced to make another pit stop to change tires, but there was trouble in the hubs. Rather than risking a serious development, the car retired, thus ending what had been a brilliant charge and near victory.

Taking over the lead was the No. 47 Houzan Dunlop Z (Shigekazu Wakisaka). Although its charge had not been as impressive as that of No.77, No. 47 had also worked its way up steadily, and aided to some degree by the troubles and accidents of other teams was in position to vie for the lead.

Behind No. 47 running second was No.62 (Shinsuke Shibahara). But running at an even faster pace was the No. 19 WedsSport Celica (Yuhi Sekiguchi). Driving in the first half of the race, Iida had improved the team’s position, and after Sekiguchi took the wheel h had maintained a fast pace. On lap 62 Sekiguchi passed No. 62. After that he continued to pick up the pace and on the last curve of lap 72 he pulled up the inside of No. 47 in a skillful move that gave him the lead. From there, Sekiguchi drove on unchallenged to the checkered.

The victory went to the No. 19 WedsSport Celica (Akira Iida, Yuhi Sekiguchi), with the No.47 (Shogo Mitsuyama, Shigekazu Wakisaka) second, and the No.33 Hankook NSC Porsche (Mitsuhiro Kinoshita, Yuya Sakamoto) third.

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Challenge IN

Toronto Cunningham and Pobst take class wins in the wet at Grand Prix of Toronto

S

oggy conditions greeted SCCA SPEED World Challenge drivers at this year’s Steelback Grand Prix of Toronto.

While the wet track caused some strategy adjustments for the teams, the action on the track showed how competitive each class is, as both races came down to the final moments before the winner emerged.

Touring Peter Cunningham ended a 25-race winless streak, holding off Ian Baas in the final corners to win Touring Car. Pierre Kleinubing finished third.

Driving the No. 42 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura TSX, Cunningham, captured his 30th career win and ended a streak dating back to March 2005 at Sebring.

The race started under damp conditions with all cars on wet tires. Polesitter Kuno Wittmer, of Montreal, QC, got away cleanly in his No. 44 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/RealTime Racing Acura RSX and led Baas and Chip Herr from the standing start.

Baas was the first driver to fall victim to the conditions, going into the Turn 3 runoff area before a lap was complete, falling back to 15th. Wittmer was the next victim on lap five, promoting Herr to the lead. Just five laps later, Herr, who started third, began to experience throttle issues, allowing Cunningham to take the lead.

Meanwhile, Kleinubing, who started 18th after the splitter on his No. 1 Acura Certified Pre-Owned/ RealTime Racing Acura TSX was found to be too 66

Peter Cunningham won for the first time in 25 races as he held off a determined bid by Ian Baas (trailing) in Touring car

low after qualifying, was charging through the field.

As Cunningham led, defending champ Kleinubing sliced through the field to take second.

It was them time for Baas to make a charge as he moved into fifth by lap 10 and around the Mazda 6s of Charles Espenlaub and points leader Randy Pobst into third by lap 14.

On lap 24 of the 28-lap event, Cunningham caught Kleinubing off guard as they entered Turn 6 and Kleinubing tapped his team owner, sending him into a slide. Cunningham gathered his car up, and Baas was able to capitalize, moving around Kleinubing as they exited the corner. On the final lap, Baas made his move and the two ran side-byside through the final corners, banging off each other as they came to the finish line. Cunningham beat Baas to the stripe by 0.538-second.

I figured I’d better get it over with now before we get to these tracks that Pierre is so good at.”

GT Randy Pobst led from start to finish on the wet streets of Exhibition Place to take his second-consecutive series win in the GT Championship. Local hero Ron Fellows and Michael Galati completed the podium.

As the SCCA SPEED GT cars arrived on the grid with dry tires, the skies opened up and began to rain. Starting from pole, Pobst rocketed away from the grid in his No. 22 K-PAX Racing LLC/Jim Haughey Porsche 911 GT-3 and maintained the lead through a slick Turn 1. From there, Pobst

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Canadian Ron Fellows (r.) moved past Michael Galati (l.) for second in GT action, but a lapped car on the final restart prevented him from challenging Pobst for the win

Randy Pobst led from green-to-checkered flag in the GT race at Toronto

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worked with his K-PAX teammate Galati to open up a gap on Fellows in the opening stages.

The gap proved useful for Galati, who spun in the slippery conditions, but managed to stay ahead of Fellows. The No. 23 K-PAX Racing LLC/3-R Porsche 911 GT3 pilot wasn’t so lucky when he made contact with the No. 17 LTI Contracting/Foster Motorsports Dodge Viper of Rob Foster and spun, which allowed Fellows to take second.

When the green and white flags came out on a lap-30 restart, a lapped car between Pobst and Fellows allowed the Porsche driver to make his final tour of the circuit unchallenged and cruise to his second victory in a row.

“That race was nowhere near easy, because the conditions were constantly changing,” Pobst said.

“It might have looked easy, because there’s a trick I learned a long time ago in autocrossing, and that’s the fastest way through a slow corner is to go slow.

Boy did you have to go through some of these corners slow here in Toronto. I had an advantage, because I had run the Touring Car race just before this and it was wet, so I had a good feel for where there was traction and where there wasn’t, but I did get in trouble a couple of times by myself.

“I was pushing that car as hard as I could the whole time and I knew Ron was back there and catching me for awhile. As the track was starting to dry, our Porsches had a totally dry set up, and they just came in. I think the traction was the best it had been all weekend once the track dried. This track is well-suited to the Porsche, which is light and agile, and with these conditions I was just very careful.”

“It was a good result for Team Cadillac,” Fellows said. “We just didn’t have anything for Randy. At the start of the race, a dry line started to form, but then the rain came again and the track got pretty slippery, particularly in Turns 1 and 3. Then when a dry line started to redevelop we just weren’t fast enough, but we’ll take second and help Cadillac in the Manufacturer’s Championship. We’ll do a little more homework with the boys and be ready for when I get back in again at Mosport.”

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Terry McMillen won his first career IHRA “Ironman” during Edmonton’s Rocky Mountain Nationals Ed Hoover drove Paul Trussell’s awesome Corvette to the Rocky Mountain Nationals Pro Mod title

Story by Bruce Biegler | Photos by Bruce Biegler & Kevin Sproule

2007 CARS RV Rocky Mountain Nationals

Rocky Mountain

Rock n’ Roll!

T

he 2007 version of IHRA’s furthest venture West, the CARS RV & Marine & Motorsports Rocky Mountain Nationals, was record shattering on pretty well every front.

At Edmonton’s Castrol Raceway, invading drag racers shattered records (both track and Canadian) and area fans responded with the biggest crowd in Canadian and IHRA drag racing history!

The event was memorable for two dedicated IHRA circuit drivers with the Knoll Gas/Torco Race Fuels Nitro portion of the program producing first time wins for Terry McMillen and Terry Haddock, who emerged on top in Top Fuel and Funny Car, respectively.

At Edmonton’s Castrol Raceway, invading drag racers shattered records and area fans responded with the biggest crowd in Canadian and IHRA drag racing history!

For McMillen, a long-time and popular veteran within the IHRA’s Alcohol Funny Car class, his enormous Top Fuel win came in his first season in the category and only his fourth start. McMillen denied a rather unreal bid from class newcomer Jeff O’Neill who had a shocking runner-up finish in his first start in the class driving Bruce Litton’s #2 Lu72

cas Oil car. McMillen charged to a final round 4.729 secs at 291.45 mph driving the Torco Mach Series Accelerator dragster while O’Neill fell of his earlier pace to a losing 6.043 secs. McMillen’s first Ironman included round wins over Mike Strasburg as well as his teammate Doug Foley. O’Neill upset TJ Zizzo and Scotty Cannon to advance to the final.

TF racing at Edmonton featured the second quickest time ever on Canadian soil at a superb 4.581 secs courtesy of Foley. Zizzo complimented that with the fastest speed ever recorded in Canada at 326.16 mph.

Haddock’s win in Nitro Funny Car was a truly rewarding one for the long-time independent circuit racer. After getting a easy single in round one, Haddock got progressively quicker and topped things off with a final round 5.104/291.45 to beat a tiresmoking effort by Dale Creasy Jr. Nitro Funny Car also produced Canadian record performances when Bob Gilbertson rattled both ends of the record with an impressive 4.831/312.13 driving his Dodge Stratus. Gilbertson however lost out in round one to Creasy when his car did a big wheelstand at half track.

Pro Modified was a truly ferocious affair featuring a marquee Can-Am final round battle between Carl Spiering and Ed Hoover. Spiering moved first driving his Ontario-based Eaton-sponsored Chevy Camaro (.029 to .065) however this time Hoover’s Al Billes engine program prevailed at mid track

Virginia’s Robert Patrick set low ET while winning the Pro Stock final Canada’s top rated Nitro Harley rider, Ron Houniet, dominated at Edmonton

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as Hoover won a close 6.151 to 6.198 secs decision. Spiering’s strong finish included top speed of the meet at 235.27 mph. That strong performance came during his first national event appearance of the season.

Winnipeg’s Kenny Lang also had a superb event, qualifying on the pole with a low ET shot of 6.102 secs before losing out in round two.

PM produced the event’s most harrowing moment when Canadian racer Ross Hogenson clipped the guardwall hard during Saturday’s qualifying.

The apparent cause was a blown rear slick. Hogenson (who is from Lethbridge) was thankfully not injured as he quickly got the parachutes out. His nitrous-injected Corvette received severe damage.

TF racing featured the second quickest time ever on Canadian soil at a superb 4.581 secs courtesy of Foley. Zizzo complimented that with the fastest speed ever recorded in Canada at 326.16 mph

Manitoba’s Kenny Lang qualified on top in Pro Modified

The Nitro Funny Car final saw Terry Haddock (near lane) upset Dale Creasy to earn his first career victory

Patrick’s final round ET was low ET of the event.

Class runner-up Berner had qualified his GTO on the pole (at 6.424 secs) and set a new track speed record at 217.32 mph.

Professional racing at the Rocky Mountain Nationals included added attractions for local talents in Nitro Bike and Pro Nostalgia eliminators.

Canada’s premier Nitro Bike rider, Ron Houniet (from Maple Ridge, BC) ran roughshod over the 12bike field as he won in dominant style. Houniet ran a final round 6.522/211.73 to turn back Rob Smith (Langley, BC), who went 6.683/195.48. Houniet rattled off low ET at a thrilling 6.485 secs and was credited with top speed at 214.66 mph.

Eddy Plaizier prevailed in the 7.50 indexed Pro Nostalgia Funny Car class. Plaizier drove his ultracool ACE-sponsored ’37 Chevy-bodied car past Jason Bussey’s Dodge Daytona during the Saturday night feature final.

The Edmonton event included for the first time in IHRA history some Top Alcohol Dragster class cars with local racers Ed Douglas and Greg Sereda making demonstration runs. That event was organized

by DragRaceCanada’s NitroMoose brand and supported by team sponsors Vision Projects and World Financial Group. It is hoped that the Edmonton effort may serve as a marker for possible future TAD competition within IHRA Canadian events.

Alcohol Funny Car saw Mark Thomas extend his overall points lead with his third win of the season. Thomas topped legendary Albertabased driver Roger Bateman in the final. Thomas skipped to a winning 5.950/241.84 while Bateman went .065 red driving Brian Friesen’s BioCare Motorsports Camaro.

Rob Atchison qualified on the pole when he went 5.887/241.97 driving the Erickson Manufacturingsponsored Chevy Monte Carlo. Atchison, however, was gunned down by a quicker leaving Roger Bateman in round two.

Pro Stock at Edmonton was a short field with only 14 cars entered. That did not however take away from the performance highlights and ultimate victory by Ford Corba pilot Robert Patrick. He prevailed in a simply sensation final, winning over defending World Champion Pete Berner in a razor thin decision — 6.418/214.79 to 6.419/216.10.

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Performance Racing News

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2007 Mopar Canadian Nationals

Local Heroes

Shine Scotty Cannon earned his first career Top Fuel title during the Mopar Canadian Nationals

P

The Creasy Family campaigned two Nitro Funny Cars at Grand Bend with Dale Creasy (near lane) winning

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ro drivers Raymond Commisso and Paul Noakes made Canada proud when they delivered highly popular victories in front of a home crowd during the 8th running of the IHRA’s Mopar Canadian Nationals at Grand Bend Motorplex.

For Commisso, the win was somewhat unexpected as he and his R2B2 Motorsports team won despite debuting a brand new (and never run) Tim McAmis built car. After some early shakedown runs and qualifying 13th, Commisso combined good driving with some Al Billes tuning magic to earn the victory. In the final, he skipped to his quickest run of the weekend at 6.117 secs at 233.92 mph to turn back the powerful Eatonsponsored Chevy Cavalier of Mike Janis, which went into tire shake.

Commisso beat cross town Toronto rival Tony Pontieri during an exciting round one match that saw both talented drivers peddle their cars to the stripe. Commisso prevailed by a narrow 7.492 secs to 7.529 secs margin. Commisso then handled Jason Hamstra and defending World Champion Quain Stott to advance to the final.

“To be honest we just came out here to test — we didn’t have that high of expectations,” said Commisso. “But on the last qualifying run we had some super short times and I knew then we had something special. I’m very happy to win for my new sponsor (Roger Burgess) and to do it

at home in Canada where I grew up racing. The main reason for this win is Al Billes and my great supporting staff.”

PM qualifying included some history when Scott Cannon recorded the first ever “five” in the category on Canadian soil. Driving his fantastic ’68 Firebird, which includes the expertise of a Canadian company (Cynergy Composites), Cannon hit a history making 5.997 secs to pace the field. Cannon,

For Commisso, the win was somewhat unexpected as he and his R2B2 Motorsports team won despite debuting a brand new Tim McAmis built car. however, was then ousted during an upset riddled round one — losing a 6.080 secs to 6.096 secs decision to fast rising driver Jason Hamstra.

Noakes won a super exciting all London, ON Alcohol Funny Car final when he beat fellow resident Rob Atchison 5.947 to 6.024 secs. Driving his Harman-sponsored Ford Mustang, Noakes was by far the most consistent car on the premises. Utilizing the skills of his new crew chief Les Mellows, the team qualified fourth (5.882 secs) before gunning down Terry McMillen (5.826 secs) and Larry Dobbs (5.860 secs) to advance to the final.

Performance Racing News

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Brian Gahm rocked the Pro Stock contingent recording the first ever 6.2 secs in the class

London’s Paul Noakes enjoyed his finest hour in drag racing and his two-year-old daughter Brooklyn helped him celebrate

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Despite campaigning a brand new race car, Toronto’s Raymond Commisso prevailed in Pro Modified

“To win in front of my family, all my friends and at what I consider my home track makes it extra special,” said Noakes. “Our objective here was to just repeat every time but we had some good numbers pop up which surprised us. That is a testament to all of my great crew.”

AFC included a number of other solid Canadian highlights including top speed by Atchison (244.12 mph) and a low ET by Welland’s Larry Dobbs (5.826 secs). Stratford’s Scott Wildgust also impressed during his scheduled one race stint behind the wheel of Spiro Kontos’ new Monte Carlo Funny Car. Wildgust, whose normal assignment is behind the wheel of the Ajax Engines/NitroMoose ’57 Chevy Pro Mod car, qualified sixth with a 5.915 secs.

Torco Race Fuels nitro action included a history making first win for former IHRA Pro Mod star Scott Cannon, who scored in the Top Fuel class for the first time. Cannon, whose last IHRA event win dates back to Bristol in 1998, won an exciting come-from-behind victory over Jim Cavalieri.

Cavalier jumped to an early lead and appeared to have the final won before his car started to spin its tires on the back half of the track. That allowed Cannon to sneak by for a very close 4.967 secs to 5.071 secs win light.

Cannon was joined in victory lane by Dale Creasy Jr., who scored his second straight Mopar Canadian Nationals title win in Nitro Funny Car. Creasy and Mitch King both struggled with tire spin in the final, but “Peanut” prevailed to win a dramatic 5.233/263.51 to 5.382/272.01 decision.

Creasy’s victory came over a rather weak program that drew only eight cars and featured a dismal bump spot of 11.31 secs and a low ET at only 5.011 secs. King’s runner-up effort was a shocker given his best time of the event going into the final was only a 6.087 secs. But his skilled and hired

tuner Paul Smith gave him a good chance but just missed giving him his first title.

Brian Gahm made big waves in Pro Stock’s very first session on Friday as he recorded a barrier breaking first-ever sub 6.3 secs run. Gahm’s Ford Mustang flew to an historic 6.299 secs, a number he later backed up for a new IHRA national ET record. Unfortunately for Gahm, that fiery effort was self extinguished in round two when he went .025 red while racing Bert Bertsch.

The Pro Stock title was ultimately claimed

by Steve Spiess, who roared to victory in his

The Pro Stock title was ultimately claimed by Steve Spiess, who roared to victory in his Chevy Colbalt...with a string of mid 6.3 secs elapsed times to win Chevy Colbalt. Spiess ran super consistent on Sunday with a string of mid 6.3 secs elapsed times to win – including a final round 6.389 secs to defeat a tire-shaking Frank Gugliotta.

Spiess also went for the fastest ride of his career and his first 220 mph (220.08 mph) during Sunday’s eliminations.

The event featured a solid Pro Stock program and good qualifying efforts from three Canadian-based cars, Larry O’Brien (6.393 secs), Anthony Paone (6.447 secs) and Ron Miller (6.452 secs). O’Brien’s run was his first 6.3 and is the quickest ever by a Canadianbased Pro Stock car, eclipsing the 6.398 secs effort by Anthony Paone at Rockingham last April. O’Brien’s run, which came driving his Dodge Stratus was also the fastest ever by a Mopar brand Pro Stock car.

Performance Racing News

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coverage BROUGHT to you by Larry Dixon’s amazing winning propensity at NHRA Englishtown produced his 4th career Top Fuel win at the facility

Mid-Season

Flurry

Highlighting a ferocious mid-season for NHRA POWERade contenders Story by Bruce Biegler Photos by Bruce Biegler & Dave DeAngelis

Angelle Sampey rocked the Pro Stock Motorcycle community at Englishtown, recording the quickest time ever in the class at 6.871 secs

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T

he busiest summer schedule in NHRA history included consecutive touchdowns at one of history’s most fabled facilities, for the first time ever at a former IHRA property and up to the highest drag strip in the world.

38th Pro-Care RX Super Nationals Legendary team owner Don “Snake” Prudhomme stole the New York area spotlight at Englishtown NJ, when his team drivers, Larry Dixon (Top Fuel) and Tommy Johnson Jr. (Funny Car) came away victorious.

Johnson’s win was a remarkable and gutsy one.

After dominating qualifying (including low ET at 4.729 secs), “TJ” had a major fire while winning his round one match over Gary Densham on Sunday. Johnson got the Skoal-sponsored Chevy Impala stopped safely, but fire damage was severe and his team scrambled to make repairs and install a new body for round two. Johnson came back swinging hard as he advanced all the way to the final to face the Q-Racing Chevy Impala of Tony Pedregon. “TJ” earned a most deserving and popular victory when his 4.994 secs to 5.022 secs prevailed to give him his first circuit title since August 2006.

Dixon’s win in Top Fuel was a far smoother sailing affair. After beating Whit Bazemore in round one, his SkyTel-sponsored dragster team ran progressively quicker in the final three frames on Sunday while beating Doug Kalitta, Hillary Will and ultimately the Snap-On Tools dragster driven by Doug Herbert.

Angelle Sampey made headlines during Pro Stock Motorcycle qualifying when she reset the NHRA national ET record at 6.871 secs – the quickest run in class history. But Angelle could not turn that amazing performance into a victory when she went .006 red during round two riding the US Army Suzuki to lose out to Craig Treble. Treble promptly took full advantage of that development as he then rode the Team Lartigue Suzuki to the overall event victory. Treble combined a quicker starting line reaction time with a run of 6.990 secs at 191.70 mph to edge defending World Champion Andrew Hines in the final

Performance Racing News

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Tommy Johnson Jr. shrugged off this serious fire in round one to end up in victory lane during the NHRA Pro-Care RX SuperNationals Pro Stock featured yet another back breaking victory by Summit Racing GTO driver Greg Anderson.

Anderson won for the sixth time this season when he beat a red-lighting Jeg Coughlin in the final. Anderson’s victory came from the pole (6.592 secs – track record) and he also set top speed at 210.57 mph, also a track record.

AMS Pro Mod returned to action at Englishtown and featured a first time winner, Tim Tindle. Tindle drove his supercharged ’67 Ford Mustang past a redlighting Jay Payne in the final. He beat Joe Mulligan, Tony Pontieri and overall points leader Josh Hernandez in earlier competition.

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Performance Racing News

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Mike Ashley proved again he is for real in Funny Car, winning the NHRA’s first event held at former Norwalk Raceway Park

Inaugural Summit Racing Nationals The new NHRA era for former IHRA track Norwalk Raceway Park (now known as Summit Motorsports Park) began under ideal chamber of commerce weather. NHRA’s first ever stop at the Bader familyowned facility featured spectacular racing, spectacular amenities and jam-packed grandstands.

New York’s Mike Ashley rebounded from two consecutive event non-qualifying efforts to earn his major league victory in Funny Car eliminator. Driving the Evan Knoll-edition Skull Gear/Torco Race Fuels Dodge Charger, Ashley won for the second time in his career (and this season) in a very im-

pressive and consistent fashion. Ashley scored in a marquee all-Mopar final when his quickest run during eliminations (4.823/321.88) defeated the tire-smoking Monster Energy Drink Dodge Charger driven by Kenny Bernstein. The runner-up finish for Bernstein was his best showing since his return to the category this season.

Ashley qualified eighth (4.778 secs) and then his crew chief Brian Corradi served up three consecutive mid 4.8 secs runs during Sunday’s first three rounds to beat Jim Head, Robert Hight and Cruz Pedregon. Ashley was also credited with top speed at 329.58 mph.

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Bill Bader realized his dream of hosting a NHRA national event and the spectator response was absolutely massive

Defending NHRA POWERade Champion Andrew Hines turned back all challengers in Pro Stock Motorcycle at Norwalk

FC racing on Saturday included a spectacular incident when Del Worsham’s C.S.K. Chevy Impala shredded itself at the finish line after an apparent blower explosion. Worsham got the chassis stopped safely with very little of the expensive carbon fiber body remaining on the car.

Tony Schumacher scored in Top Fuel driving the US Army sponsored dragster to its second win of the 2007 season. Schumacher stopped points leader Rod Fuller in the final as his 4.537/322.04 easily handled Fuller’s car, which smoked the tires. Schumacher’s victory came from the 14th qualified position and included telling round wins over Brandon Bernstein, JR Todd and Whit Bazemore.

Pro Stock featured a popular victory for a home state driver, David Connolly, who scored his second win of the season driving the Torco Race Fuels Chevy Colbalt. Connolly, who is from nearby Elyria, OH, ended the strong event bid by another Ohio driver, Larry Morgan in the final. Connolly won when his 6.660/207.11 ran down Morgan’s Lucas Oil-sponsored Dodge Stratus which lost at 6.718/205.54.

Connolly beat Warren Johnson, Greg Stanfield and his teammate Jeg Coughlin in earlier rounds. He set low ET while winning in round one at 6.628 secs.

Pro Stock Motorcycle had an impressive win by defending World Champion Andrew Hines. Hines rode his feared Vance & Hines Screamin’ Eagle V-Rod

past points leader Matt Smith in the final– hitting a winning 6.988 secs at 190.46 mph. Hines ran four straight “sixes” to win the eliminator after qualifying third at 6.995 secs.

28th Mopar Mile-High Nationals The many visiting Mopar dignitaries for the company’s premier annual drag racing event at Denver’s high altitude Bandimere Speedway, were left grinning ear-to-ear following a spectacular event version that included dramatic wins by brand drivers.

The Tennessee-based father-and-son equation of Roy and Allen Johnson enjoyed their finest hour

“FC featured a special

one-time appearance for a spectacular looking gold and black painted Dodge Charger in tribute to Gary Scelzi, who announced he will be leaving the class at season’s end.”

-Mark Martin

yet in NHRA when they scored in Pro Stock eliminator with their factory backed and Mopar-sponsored Dodge Stratus. “AJ” turned back a sensational event bid from Valvoline-sponsored Chevy Colbalt driver Ron Krisher in the final. Johnson left first with a .018 RT and when Krisher’s Chevy went into tireshake, the

celebration was on.

Johnson skipped to a winning time of 7.132/192.47 to earn his fifth career NHRA national event title. Johnson’s win came from the pole after he and his Mopar-racing teammate Richie Stevens qualified 1-2 with runs of 7.032 (low ET) and 7.035 secs, respectively.

Dodge Charger Funny Car driver Jack Beckman added to the Mopar brand post-race parade when he rolled to a convincing win driving his Don Schumacher-owned and Mail Terminal Services machine. Beckman defeated points leader Ron Capps in another all-Mopar final. Both drivers left as one, however, Beckman’s Todd Okuhara-tuned car took over at half track to win the 4.932/312.86 to 5.001/307.86 affair.

For Beckman, the victory was the second of his career. After qualifying second at 4.862 secs, he beat Tommy Johnson Jr. and Jeff Arend in rounds one and two before benefiting from a surprising red-light foul start by John Force in the semi final.

FC featured a special one-time appearance for a spectacular looking gold and black painted Dodge Charger in tribute to Gary Scelzi, who announced he will be leaving the class at season’s end. Scelzi qualified the great-looking machine 11th, but lost out to a resurgent John Force in round one.

Top Fuel racing was truly exciting as points leader

Canada’s Rob Flynn (right) tuned his talented driver Rod Fuller to a convincing victory during Denver’s Mopar Mile-High Nationals 84

Prn motorcycle edition

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Home state driver Dave Connolly earned a popular victory in Pro Stock at Ohio

Rod Fuller won for the second time this season driving the David Powers-owned and Wagner CAT-sponsored dragster. Fuller defeated his teammate Whit Bazemore in the final, winning a come-from-behind 4.683/312.93 to 4.770/308.35.

The win was just the latest installment for Fuller’s crew chief, Canadian Rob Flynn who choreographed the victory. Using “Canadian Power,” Flynn/Fuller charged by Morgan Lucas, Hillary Will and Larry Dixon with progressively quicker runs on the difficult and heated Bandimere Speedway racing surface.

Given the heat and thin air, TF featured a pretty quick field with a bump spot of 4.886 secs. Local native Melanie Troxel paced the field with a near track record run of 4.610 secs (low ET) but that stout effort was snuffed out during round one by #16 qualifier Mike Strasburg, who won in a major upset.

Matt Smith increased his Pro Stock Motorcycle points leadwhen he won for the second time this season aboard the Torco/Skull Gear S&S Buell. Smith turned back the US Army-sponsored Suzuki driven by Angelle Sampey in the final when Angelle went -.047 red. Smith rolled to a winning 7.400/177.81. His victory came from the pole after he paced the PSM program with a run of 7.347 secs.

The Mopar Mile-High Nationals event was kicked off again by another great social affair downtown nearby Golden, CO on the Thursday. That Moparsponsored Block Party, which has evolved into the most anticipated pre-event social affairs in the season, included a “worst swimsuit” contest and the “Mopar Rumble on the Rapids” race down a nearby stream for marquee team drivers Gary Scelzi, Jack Beckman, Richie Stevens and Allen Johnson.

Roy and Allen Johnson enjoyed their finest moment yet in Pro Stock — they were joined in victory lane by proud sponsors John Clark and John Donato from Mopar Prn motorcycle edition

NHRA-Report 19.05.indd 7

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9/7/07 5:30:48 PM

Drag

a new

Story and photos by Bruce Biegler

racing Priority!

5th NHRA Holley Hot Rod Reunion

T

he National Hot Rod Association is taking steps to better exploit its storied heritage. In June, the World’s largest single auto racing sanctioning body moved it’s annual Holley-sponsored National Hot Rod Reunion (the 5th annual) from Bowling Green, KY to the more expansive and modern confines of National Trail Raceway just east of Columbus, OH. The intention was to provide more room and a better facility to allow the event to grow. The target is for the Eastern event to eventually mirror the highly successful Hot Rod Reunion event held each October at Bakersfield, CA. The 2007 Columbus event was by all accounts a massively successful one. Not only were racers and fans greeted by great weather conditions, the turnout of classic machinery as well as paying customers were both record setting. In fact, including the massive car show, there were over 1,000 participants.

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The event is limited to a variety of pre-1972 models and replicas, featuring drag racing for front-motor Top Fuel dragsters, Junior Fuel, Supercharged Gassers, nitro-burning classic Funny Cars, nostalgia Super Stockers and a variety of restored exhibition vehicles.

Performance Racing News

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9/7/07 2:59:22 PM

A New Drag Racing Priority!

Attaboy Diamond Dave Performance Racing News would be remiss if we did not acknowledge a spectacular effort by our very own Dave DeAngelis on the drag racing circuit recently.

DeAngelis, a long time drag racing photo contributor to Performance Publications and is now an aspiring dragster driver came within just inches of winning his first NHRA national event recently. During his debut event for new sponsor NitroMoose.ca, “Diamond Dave” placed runner-up in the Top Alcohol Dragster category during NHRA’s Pro-Care RX SuperNationals at Englishtown, NJ. Dave led the championship round most of the way before a blown headgasket allowed his opponent ( Jim Whiteley) to sneak by right at the finish line stripe. Congratulations to Dave and his talented crew!

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Not only were racers and fans greeted by great weather conditions, the turnout of classic machinery as well as paying customers were both record setting. In fact, including the massive car show, there were over 1,000 participants.”

It is a much different pace then your normal high-energy NHRA national event experience as it is more like attending a festival. The on-track action is coordinated rather nicely with scheduled breaks that allow fans the opportunity to visit the midway, car show and racer pit areas at a leisurely pace. It truly is a rather refreshing and fan friendly drag racing experience.

While the competition on the track is important and competitive, the real take-a-way from these reunions is the memories. The Reunion events are resulting in a flood of restoration projects for classic drag racing machines from

days gone by. A key aspect to that is that they can be viewed the way they were intended to be seen – at the drag strip instead of tucked away in some remote museum. The events also offer very real opportunities for fans to meet and interact with some of the sports true founding heroes. The 2007 Columbus Reunion included famous names like Ivo, Garlits, Cain and Hurst (just to name a few).

For any true connoisseur of the sport of drag racing a visit to a National Hot Rod Reunion event should be an important priority on your season menu.

Performance Racing News

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Seattle Drifts Away Yoshihara and Gitten put on a clinic in Formula D at Evergreen Speedway Text by PRNMAG.com

D

rift, slide and sure to collide. There is nothing better than watching sickening entry speeds into a steeply banked oval and Evergreen Speedway delivered the thrills. At Irwindale, SoCal crowds are treated to lofty entry speeds but in Seattle, WA, the approach is that much longer and these cars are headed into 4thgear, clutch-kickin’ mayhem. What the capacity crowd was wondering though, was would the track layout favour the big displacement bullies or the lighter, more agile imports?

The packed house drew in crowds form all over the Pacific Northwest and a large drifting

contingent from Vancouver, BC. Fans in BC have been having a tough time getting their fix with the DMCC canceling their date last year, and just a one-time stop from Team Falken for a demo to satiate them. Vancouver people are more than willing to run for the border to see the stars of Formula D. Picking the outcome would have been a challenge as many favourites were left on the sidelines for all kinds of reasons and excuses.

Seigo Yamamoto was again denied entry into the Top 32 while Rhys Millen was stonewalled in the first round. Tanner Foust, driving the AEM

Photos by Joey Redmond

Dai Yoshihara won a tight battle against Vaughn Gittin Jr. to win at Seattle

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Performance Racing News

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Hankook had this Porsche looking good in Seattle 350Z, was stopped cold before the Top 8 and last year’s event winner, Samuel Hubinette in the Team Mopar Charger, was putting on a show until he shunted Vaughn Gittin Jr.’s Team Falken Mustang unintentionally.

There was no shortage of collisions. Great for the crowds, bad for team budgets, but then again, the drivers are well aware that this is much of the appeal. Fresh off a second-place podium in West Virginia, Foust was pushing the issue far too hard versus Dai Yoshihara in the Rockstar S15, virtually paving the way for Dai to advance. Chris Forsberg crunched the wall

Kenji Yamanaka grabbed third at Evergreen Speedway while battling his Drift Alliance partner Gittin and although the team attempted to repair the Maxxis Z, Forsberg was no longer a threat. As mentioned, Hubinette gift-wrapped the win for Gittin when he crunched the big Dodge into the other Detroit bully.

In the semi-finals, Gittin advanced in the Team Falken ’Stang while on the other branch Kenji Yamanaka in the JIC S15 took on Yoshihara in the other S15. With evenly matched skills and the same platform, it was really a dice roll but international playboy and star of the F ‘n’ F Tokyo Drift video game, Yoshihara got a chance to take

It was close, but Vaughn Gittin Jr. had to settle for second

on the East Coast madman Gittin to prove he is still a contender.

In a near perfect match-up, both drivers held tandem drifts with unreal precision. Neither could edge out their rival and the crowds were clamouring for one more time to find a definitive winner. According to the judging panel, a winner had already been crowned despite the grumblings in the jammed stands. Yoshihara had the edge with his remarkable showmanship and style, giving the Japanese-American his second FD win ever!

The S15 platform is fast becoming a crowd favourite in Formula D

This sweet R34 didn’t qualify but the crowd still loved it

Performance Racing News

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9/7/07 3:06:01 PM

Outlaw Thunder returns to canada Story and Photo By Jamie Maudsley

The World of Outlaws cross the border and put on a show at Oshweken Speedway

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n July 25, for the first time in 25 years, the World of Outlaws crossed the border and took to the Canadian dirt for a show in the Great White North. Oshweken Speedway was the site of the historic event as Glenn Styres packed in excess of 9,000 spectators in the stands of the 3/8-mile track, located just South of Brantford, ON. All the cars and stars of the US based Sprint Car series made the trek, and brought the most colourful nicknames in racing with them. “The Wild Child” Jac Hausenchild, “T-Mac” Terry McCarl, Danny “The Dude” Lasoski and, of course, “The King” of the Outlaws, 20-time champion Steve Kinser.

At 6:45 the first Outlaws hit the track after a few hot laps by the water truck, and for a number of folks in Southern Ontario this was their first ever glance live at the fastest show on dirt. After the clay surface was packed at slow speeds, the starter twirled the green and the nine cars on the track barked to life.

Thirty-seven drivers took turns battling the clock in qualifying, with Lasoski turning a new track record in a lap of 12.944 seconds (104.295 mph).

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Through the heats the cars vied for a spot in the A-main, but the Dude missed the mark after contact in his qualifier knocked him back to the B-Main. When the green dropped for the 12-lap affair, Lasoski took off, slicing to the front of the final qualifier, leading three others into the feature event.

Canadians Keith Dempster and Kyle Patrick both made attempts, with Patrick turning in the best effort, finishing ninth in the B-Main, but heading home with a smile on his face. “We knew the A-main wasn’t going to happen because we have smaller motor (360 c.i.), and we’re giving up so much horsepower. There were a bunch of guys that we normally race with, and none of us with the small motors made it.”

Patrick, known as the “Tilbury Tornado,” tried to keep his emotions in check as he raced against his sprint car idols. “Once we started it was just another race. The guys that do this 100 times a year are a cut above. Their moves are

Jason Side had his 7s running hard at Oshweken and was rewarded with a big win on Canadian soil

Performance Racing News

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Jesse Kennedy grabbed the win in the PsrtSource 140 at Delaware, which is already among the most prestigious Sportsman races in Ontario

Kennedy is

Cadillac Man at Delaware

flawless and everything is for blood. I was trying to get as much experience in as I could and learn from those guys.”

Following fireworks, and a laser show, defending WoO champ Donnie Schatz and Sam Hafertepe Jr. brought the 24 starters down for the 30-lap main.

Hafertepe immediately took command while Schatz bobbled and faded to fourth.

Haferterpe led until Jason Sides brought his 7s to the front. He made short work of Haferterpe and took command before the halfway point. Sides then worked through lapped traffic, while keeping a safe distance between himself and Hausenchild, who had moved from sixth at the start to second, but Jac had a battle from behind.

Schatz, the polesitter lost a number of positions early, explaining, “I thought I saw a yellow light right when we started, and I lifted for just a second. That was all it took to shuffle us back.”

Hausenchild tried to hold Schotz back, but the defending Outlaw champ took the runner-up spot and started to mount a late charge on Sides. The pair duelled through the closing stages. “I usually don’t want to be leading, because when you’re up front, you don’t know how hard you have to run,” Schotz said. “Then again, I didn’t want to get back

Oshweken Speedway’s Glen Styres put on a fabulous show by bringing the World of Outlaws back to Canada in July

as far as we did either. I finally got to Jason with a couple laps left, but he had a good car tonight.”

Sides knew Donnie was coming, but hung on to capture his first WoO win since 2004. “I heard someone coming, but as the race went on, the top was the place to be and our car was so good in three and four that I just had to keep it under control at the other end.”

The first Canadian winner in 25 years, Sides spoke very highly of the track, “Obviously, you like anyplace that you can win at, but the track here is nice. It’s wide and you can really move around a lot and run a bunch of different lines.”

Canadian race fans have again proven the worth of top series’ making the trek north, and Styres who proved that he not only has a top notch facility, but he can also fill it with top notch entertainment.

Styres then walked the pits and handed every driver an extra $200 that a sponsor had helped him with.

A new Delaware tradition started three years ago is slowly becoming one of the most prestigious Sportsman specials of the season.

The event, in honour of Canada’s 140th birthday, was run on Canada Day weekend and the PartsSource 140 was tremendous victory for a hometown driver.

Jesse Kennedy of Southwold qualified third in his Mr. C’s Discount Smokes Chevy, and following the inversion rolled off fifth. Kennedy ran third through the first third of the event before finding his way to second, and then passing Doug Stewart for the lead.

“This is one of the most awesome race cars I’ve ever driven,” explained the 20-year plus Delaware veteran. “I settled in third for the early part of the race and had to remind myself that I had to show patience and that it was a long race compared to our normal 35 lappers. I got Stewart once and he slammed the door on me, but a lap later I had an even better run on him and he to give the spot up. After that I just put it on cruise control. The only thing I had to worry about was restarts, because once I got rolling this thing was just like a Cadillac.”

The event featured 22 starters, including a number of ‘out of towners’. Scott Lindsay finished second, with Dan Delisle third, while the top invader, Jason Shaw, finishing eighth.

The finish also allowed Kennedy to take the points lead as the season reached halfway.

Taking place on Canada Day weekend meant there was something special to the event, as Kirk Hooker showed with his Canadian flag paint scheme

Performance Racing News

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9/7/07 2:29:32 PM

NASA 101: LEARNING THE LINE

STORY BY DEV CLOUGH

RACE WINNERS AREN’T THE FASTEST AROUND THE CORNERS, THEY ARE THE ONES WHO GET BETWEEN THE CORNERS FASTEST

T

he line is the path around the track that, when driven at the limit, will yield the fastest lap time. The line through any particular corner is accomplished using a “connect the dots” approach. There is a specific “turn in,” or “corner entry” point, which is the point where you begin turning the steering wheel. At the approximate middle of the corner is the “apex,” which is the point in the turn where the inside wheels are closest to the inside edge of the pavement. At the end of the turn is the “corner exit,” which is the point where the car is no longer turning, and the wheel is straight.

Going quickly requires that you learn the line and drive it consistently and precisely. One of the biggest stumbling blocks to learning the line is overdriving the car while trying to learn the line.

If you are going slower than the traction limits will allow, you can place the car exactly where you want to. If you are going too fast, the car will be controlling you, and you will be forced to follow the line established by the speed of the car.

Racing drivers are all aware of the adage: “slow in, fast out.” The most important goal of most corners is to carry as much speed as possible onto the straight following the corner. It has been said that the race winner is not the guy who goes fastest around the corners, but the guy who gets between the corners fastest.

The proper line can often be felt. Some things to look for: 94

At the “turn-in” point, the car should be as close to the outside edge of the track as possible. This will allow the car to travel the arc of the greatest radius through the corner. At the “apex,” the car should be as close as possible to the inside edge of the track, and at “corner exit” the car should be all of the way to the outside edge of the track again. Many turns have “berms” (usually a concrete curbing) at the apex and corner exit. Racing drivers commonly drive on the berms to increase the radius of the turn by another few inches. I don’t advocate that in a street car, but I ask my students to try to just “feel” the edge of the berm, to know they have used the whole width of the track. Note: It can be helpful in learning the line to look at where the rubber has been left on the berm by the race cars.

Hot tip: You will know when you are on the correct line when you turn in at corner entry and do not have to change the wheel position again until you begin to “unwind” (straighten) the wheel about 50-75% of the way through the corner. You must hit your apex, and wind up at the outside edge of the track for this to be meaningful. This is what you will want to feel: at corner entry the car should turn in easily. The car will lean on its suspension, and “take a set.” When it does, you should gently begin to apply a small amount of throttle (the car is more stable under throttle than if just rolling free). Gently increase the throttle, feeling how much the car can take, if the car

begins to go wide (remember, you must hit your apex!) either stop increasing throttle application, or lift very gently. Lifting quickly will probably spin the car if you are anywhere near the limit, but lifting gently will just point the car into the apex. As you pass your apex point, you should be able to gradually apply more throttle, and as you do, you will feel the car tell you it wants to go straighter (because you are going faster) and you will have to unwind the wheel. This unwinding should carry you all of the way out against the edge of the track at your corner exit point. If the entire corner felt smooth, and felt like the car was developing a consistent G-force from the beginning to the end of the corner, you probably nailed it. Remember, none of this means anything if you do not “connect the dots!”

Most drivers use visual reference points to establish where they apply their brakes, the turn-in point, the apex and corner exit points. It is the easiest way to be consistent, particularly when learning a new track. Look for objects that will always be there, and that won’t move. Cones are a bad idea, while a missing chunk of pavement is a good idea. When establishing a braking point, be conservative. First, because of “slow in, fast out” and secondly because as the day progresses you will probably be exiting the previous corner faster, and therefore carrying more speed into the braking zone.

PERFORMANCE RACING NEWS

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Touring Car Championship makes a statement at Toronto debut and launches Calabogie Motorsport Park with spectacular race

Photos by Ramesh Bayney

Big Debuts Roberto Sabato dominated the GT races at Toronto and Calabogie, but he missed the first round and is well behind the points leader

T

he Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship presented by Toyo Tires put on a trio of exciting races in July. First, the series had a doubleheader weekend during the Grand Prix of Toronto that produced two of the best races on the weekend. A few weeks later the series opened the new Calabogie Motorsports Park facility near Ottawa, ON with a spectacular race that saw battles throughout the 40-car field.

Toronto Scott Nicol ruled the streets of Toronto by taking victory in both Super Touring races

A victory at Toronto for Robert Calisi put him in the thick of the Touring title fight with points leader Alain Lauziere

96

Fifty-seven drivers and 50 cars took to the track for initial practice and quickly adapted to the changing track surfaces and daunting concrete walls. Quickest in GT Class was Sasha Anis in his Nissan, Charles-Andre Bilodeau in his BMW was fastest in Super Touring and Alain Lauziere in his Mini showed the way in Touring Class.

Some teams worked into the night to overcome some mechanical problems in preparation for the morning qualifying session. Roberto Sabato in his Corvette set the fastest time in GT, Scott Nicol in his Honda set the fastest time in Super Touring while Ken McCarten put his CRX on pole in Touring.

There were intense battles throughout the field between the 43 cars that took the green flag in the first race on Saturday. The huge crowd was entertained by constant passing and in the end, Sabato brought his Corvette home to win GT, Nicol won Super Touring and Lauziere won Touring.

Sunday’s race was in front of an even larger crowd and was fortunately run on a dry track despite threatening skies. The large field spent the first of two pace laps waving and acknowledging the huge fan support they experienced over the weekend. Sabato and Nicol repeated

their victories from the day before in GT and Super Touring, respectively, while Robert Calisi triumphed in Touring.

Calabogie The Castrol Canadian Touring Car Championship presented by Toyo Tires was the premiere event at the inaugural race weekend of the brand new Calabogie Motorsport Park near Ottawa on July 28, 2007.

As the showcase series at the inaugural track event, the Touring Car race was a huge success from all angles.

The drivers quickly got up to speed on the new track, finding the fast lines on the challenging East Course. A sudden downpour meant qualifying began on a wet track but the times fell as the dry line reappeared. At the end of qualifying Sasha Anis lead GT in his Nissan, Scott Nicol was fastest in Super Touring and James Foote put his Honda on pole in Touring.

The run down to the first corner in the first race was extreme as almost all made it through on the first lap. Tough battles continued throughout the race and Anis led GT at the checkered flag while Nicol won Super Touring and Andre Rapone claimed Touring.

The run down to the first corner for the feature race on Sunday was eventful again with many taking to the grass to complete the corner. Tony McGrath started from the back of the field and worked his was up to third in GT Class by the end of the race but Sabato won with co-driver Marco Cirone.

Charles-Andre Bilodeau captured a hard-earned win in Super Touring but was closely followed by Nicol. James Foote brought his Honda home in first in Touring with Anthony Rapone just behind.

Performance Racing News

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proudly sponsors

canadian drag racing update

By Bruce Biegler I Drag Racing Editor

Milestone Looming?

T Tim Martin’s unreal new 23T is on the verge of making some IHRA Top Dragster class history

im Martin, from Barrie, ON, is making a serious bid for a little bit of drag racing history. The veteran of some 10 years of Southern Ontario Top Dragster evolved during the recent off-season to an unreal new Mike Bos-built supercharged 23T altered. That car has performed outstanding out of the gate, including being credited with runs of as quick as 6.07 secs and 232+ mph. No IHRA legal Top Dragster driver has ever dipped into the 5-secs zone yet, but Tim and his talented crew are seemingly on track to do exactly just that.

“After we got this car (from Joe Mulligan) we put a lot of focus on our engine program over the

winter in conjunction with Al Billes,” said Martin.

“With his help and on his Dyno we made some huge horsepower gains. Now being the first TD racer to run in the ‘fives’ has certainly become a target. This car is built exactly for that and we think it is really just function of having the right conditions before it happens.”

Southern Ontario fans may very well be witness to that milestone TD class mark. Martin’s team will frequent some Grand Bend Motorplex Quick 8 events prior to running the IHRA Canadian Nationals at TMP in September. With the onset of cooler weather both of those facilities are capable of producing the history making run.

National Event Sportsman Stars

C

anadian Sportsman drivers have been collecting some serious trophy hardware this summer. Action has been highlighted by Calgary’s Ken Mostowich, who earned his second career NHRA national event win during the Schuck’s Auto Parts Nationals in Seattle.

Driving his Moss Fabrication-sponsored Chevy Cavalier, a rather rare “doorslammer” within the rear-engine dragster dominated Super Comp class, he cut down a tough field of cars, winning no less than seven grueling rounds of competition. In the final round a near perfect run of 8.906 secs at 176.84 mph toppled opponent Dale Green.

Mostowich’s victory at Seattle was preceded by an outstanding Canadian showing during IHRA’s Cars RV & Marine Rocky Mountain Nationals at Edmonton’s Castrol Raceway. Canadians won a staggering 10 different eliminators including IHRA class titles to Rick Paton (Super Stock), Norm LaPointe (Stock), Earl Mardy (Quick Rod), John Schmidt (Super Rod) and Scott Hydaman (Hot Rod).

We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the close calls too. During IHRA’s Mopar Canadian Nationals at Grand Bend Motorplex, Canada had three runner-ups; Tom Bene (Top Sportsman), David Klomps (Quick Rod) and Gianni Cantusci (Super Stock).

Edmonton’s Rick Paton was just one of a number of Canadian national event winners this summer!

DragRaceCanada.COM Awards

Photo by Dave DeAngelis

D “Canadian Drag Racers of the Year” award winners: Al Billes, Kenny Lang & Victoria Smith 98

uring IHRA’s 8th Annual Mopar Canadian Nationals at Grand Bend Motorplex, there was formal recognition for the winners of the 2006 DragRaceCanada.com Canadian Drag Racers of the Year online poll held last winter.

During a pre-race ceremony three IHRA circuit racers were honoured for their accomplishments: Victoria Smith, Sportsman Driver-of-theYear; Al Billes, Crew Chief/Tuner-of-the-Year; and Kenny Lang, Most Improved/Up-and-Comerof-the-Year. Each recipient received a handsome “NitroMoose” sculpturs graciously provided by Eaton Cutler-Hammer, one of DragRaceCanada’s primary presenting sponsors.

“The race fans have spoken and DragRaceCanada along with it’s primary sponsors, Eaton, Mopar and Castrol Canada we are pleased to help give these great racers the recognition they deserve,” said Bruce Biegler, Editor & Owner.

“Thanks to all the fans out there the DragRaceCanada Canadian Drag Racers of the Year program has evolved into the #1 recognized awards for drag racing in Canada.”

The 4th winner for 2006 was Quebec’s Daniel Mercier; an NHRA circuit Top Alcohol Dragster driver. Daniel collected his “NitroMoose” award during last spring’s event near Atlanta, GA. Mercier was voted by fans as the top Professional Driver-of-the-Year.

Performance Racing News

CDU 19.05 V2.indd 1

9/7/07 3:10:43 PM

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Brakes & suspension

AEM High Performance Brake Pads

AEM High Performance Brake Pads are specifically engineered for high performance braking.

These pads are manufactured in conjunction with OE Japanese brake manufacturer Nissin and utilize a unique ceramic-Kevlar fibre compound to provide a higher coefficient of friction that resists fading and reduces stopping distances. The pads are guaranteed to outperform OE pads and fit perfectly every time. The non-ferrous metal compound is non-corrosive so it won’t deteriorate brake components and the light coloured dust does not show on wheels. Finally, they are quiet.

For more call (310) 484-2322, ext. 229 or visit www.aempower.com.

Brembo GT Big Brake Kits

Brembo’s GT kits come with a choice of 4-, 6-, or 8-piston calipers with sequentially-sized pistons and include colour choices of red, black or silver calipers and yellow on selected applications. The kits include Brembo drilled or slotted two-piece rotors up to 15 inches (380mm) in diameter or one-piece rotors up to 14 inches (355mm). DOT and TUV certified Goodridge stainless steel braided brake lines are included, as are Brembo high performance brake pads, floating anti-rattle rotor hardware and billet aluminum brackets with aircraft-quality hardware.

For more visit www.brembo.com/us or call (714) 460-7400.

KVR’s J-Hook Slotted Rotors

KVR claims their new J-Hook slotted rotors performs better than the traditional straight slot. The company says the J-Hook offers improved initial bite, improved pad cleaning, improved release and less chance of excessive pad build-up. Available for most applications.

For more visit www.kvrperformance.com or call (800) 636-0854.

Hawk Performance Brake Pads

The Performance Ceramic, luxury and touring compound is a special composite developed to meet and exceed the ultra low-dust, low-noise performance of OE ceramic pads. The Performance Ceramic pad also features a fade-resistant, linear friction profile that produced improved braking over OEM parts with smooth engagement characteristics. Recommended for import and domestic automobiles, luxury SUVs, sport trucks and vans. Performance Ceramic is quiet, clean and stops fast.

For more visit www.hawkperformance.com or call (800) 542-0972.

RENNtech 15-inch brake kit

Renntech’s 381mm (15-inch) slotted rotors are made from the latest high-tech ferrite alloys that are both lighter in weight and offer high resistance to heat-induced failures. The rotors float on CNC aluminum hats to reduce unsprung weight and allow for proper thermal rotor expansion. RENNtech’s 15-inch rotors are clamped by one-piece, lightweight aluminum eight-piston calipers capable of extreme clamping force using the included upgraded pads. The kit includes rotors, hats, calipers, caliper mounting brackets, stainless steel braided brake lines, pads and all mounting hardware.

For more visit www.renntechmercedes.com.

Neuspeed Brembo Gran Turismo Big Brake UpgradE

Neuspeed and Brembo have the ultimate brake upgrade kit for late-model Audi and Volkswagen vehicles. Every kit is engineered for maximum braking performance with a straightforward bolt-on installation that includes rotors, brake pads, CNC machined brackets and brake lines. The kits are available with your choice of drilled or slotted rotors.

For more call (800) 423-3623 or visit www.neuspeed.com.

100 Performance Racing News

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Brakes & suspension

Apex XForce Kits

Made in Holland with the highest precision and finest materials, the Apex XForce Kit consists of four lowering springs with matching shock absorbers that, depending on model and type of car, offer the possibility of lowering the car anywhere up to a maximum of 3 inches (75mm). Apex XForce Kits offer full adjustability of both damping and ride height. They’re fully adjustable to the degree of sportiness you want!

For more visit www.apexsuspension.ca.

ATE Premium One Rotors

ATE’s Premium One brake rotors feature a differentiated and patented RotorLife wear indicator that provides a visual indicator of when the rotor should be replaced. The rotor’s groove design also disperses dirt and water, and enhances the dissipation of heat and gases to reduce brake fade and extend brake life. In addition, ATE treats each PremiumOne rotor with Metacote, an attractive finish that provides a protective coating that helps prevent rust and corrosion.

For more visit www.ate-na.com or contact your local Canadian Tire dealer www.canadiantire.com.

SSBC Performance Brakes for Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky

MOMO Airblack Strut Tower Brace

Close up and tighten the open ended box that is your engine bay in style with MOMO’s Airblack strut tower brace. Applications include MkIV VW Golf and Jetta and Ford Focus.

For more visit www.momocanada.com.

The front kit features Force 10 Tri-Power three-piston aluminum caliper. The caliper is loaded with three 38mm stainless steel pistons as well as high-performance brake pads. The Tri-Power caliper is mated to a 13- by 1.125-inch directionally vented rotor. The rear kit also features Force 10 aluminum calipers, the Sport R1. This features a single 54mm stainless steel piston, as well as a built-in parking brake. It’s also mated to the same 13- by 1.125-inch directionally-vented rotor.

For more visit www.ssbrakes.com or call (800) 448-7722.

Wilwood Big Brake Kits for 350Z / G35

Wilwood Disc Brakes’ new front and rear brake kits are designed for easy bolt-on installation and are compatible with the OE master cylinder and ABS system. Front kits feature billet CNC machined Superlite six-piston calipers in red or black, clamping a choice of 13- or 14-inch curved vane rotors. These rotors come in a drilled and slotted (SRP) pattern or slotted only (GT) for high-heat applications, mated to black “signature” anodized aluminum hats.

Rear kits include Forged Billet DynaPro four-piston calipers.

For more visit www.wilwood.com or call (805) 388-1188.

Tein Euro Damper

Tein has developed products specifically for European cars which incorporate their latest technology. The Euro Damper was designed for greater performance compared with standard dampers while maintaining ride comfort. Tein has integrated its latest Micro Speed Valve (MSV) technology to precisely control low-speed compression and rebound. This system allows the car to have improved handling and gives the driver quicker steering response without losing ride comfort. Euro dampers are ideal for daily driving and high speed cruising.

Available for various Audi, BMW, Mercedes, and Volkswagen models.

For more visit www.tein.com.

102 Performance Racing News

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Brakes & suspension

ARK Performance Coil-Overs

The ARK coil-over system uses a mono-tube design which separates the oil and gas within the cylinder. The mono-tube dissipates heat better than conventional twin-tube designs and allows for finer dampening adjustments and requires a more expensive design process. ARK DT-P and ST-P coil-overs feature separate 16-way adjustment for the front and rear. Due to the durability and extended lifespan of the suspension, ARK offers a 15-month factory limited warranty.

For more visit www.arkperformanceusa.com.

Cusco Zero-2E Coilover Kit

The Cusco Zero-2E coil-over kit adds the option to electronically control the shock adjustment from inside the car.

Utilizing the E-Con controller (sold separately) you can select one of five stages you want the shock set at. This coil-over kit features precise pillow-ball upper mounts as well.

For more call (800) 470-6388 or visit www.autocarparts.com.

DC Sports Billet Lower Tie Bars

A lower tie bar increases a vehicle’s torsional rigidity by bracing the rear lower control arm mounting points. DC Sports’ lightweight billet lower tie bars achieve this while maintaining precise suspension alignment required for performance driving. DC tie bars are easy to install using factory mounting locations and all necessary hardware is included. Precision CNC-machining from lightweight 6061 T-6 billet aluminum with a machined DC Sports logo and TIG-welded fittings and mounting pads ensure a long life. Available with a mirror-polished finish for Honda/Acura applications.

For more visit www.dcsports.com.

Spax SSX Uprated Lowering Springs for BMW Z4

The Spax SSX spring kit will lower the car by 30mm, thus lowering the centre of gravity and improving the handling.

The spring kit is progressively wound for ultimate performance and low-speed comfort. The chrome silicon material is used for ultimate quality and is TUV-tested for safety and quality. The Spax SSX is compatible with all Spax dampers.

For more visit www.spaxperformance.com.

Koni Suspension Kit

The Koni threaded suspension kit is the company’s comprehensive street package that offers ride-height adjustability on all four corners combined with rebound damping (external in most cases) and a show-quality chrome finish. This kit allows for maximum adjustability and a great look.

For more visit www.koni.com.

Eibach Springs Pro Kit for 2007 Civic Si Sedan

The all-new 4-door 2007 Civic Si Sedan fitted with Eibach Springs has it all – all the performance of the Si Coupe combined with all the room and practicality of a sedan. The Eibach Pro-Kit is the perfect answer for most frequently-driven street cars. Eibach’s spring system dramatically improves both a vehicle’s performance and appearance. The Pro-Kit provides the ultimate balance to take your passion for driving to a whole new level. Approximate lowering is 1.2 inches in the front and 1.0 inch in the rear.

For more call (951) 256-8300 or visit www.eibach.com.

104 Performance Racing News

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IN THE

GARAGE

PENNZOIL ALL-IN-ONE Every time you step on the gas, you may be subjecting your engine to power-robbing friction and carbon deposits. Most fuel additives provide some fuel system cleaning benefits, but Pennzoil All-In-One can provide both fuel system cleaning and lubrication protection. Pennzoil All-In-One not only works to keep your vehicle in top running order, but also improves gas mileage, restores lost horsepower, removes excess moisture, and lubricates engine parts. One bottle of this product can restore and improve engine performance, as it reduces harmful engine deposits. All you have to do is add Pennzoil All-In-One to your gasoline tank at time of fill up.

FOR MORE VISIT WWW.PENNZOIL.COM

FIX-A-FLAT Fix-A-Flat is one of the easiest, most convenient solutions to a flat tire.

People who carry Fix-A-Flat know that they are carrying a product that can get them back on the road quickly and safely. There are no tools or jacks required, making fixing a flat tire in any situation a simple and no-fuss task. Fix-A-Flat temporarily fixes a flat tire by inflating the tire and sealing the hole. It is small and portable, as well as comes with a hose for easy application. Fix-A-Flat, when used as directed, is safe for use on tires with Tire Pressure Sensor technology.

FOR MORE VISIT WWW.FIXAFLAT.COM

VENT FRESH AIR FRESHENERS Sometimes a typical air freshener can carry a scent that is too strong, or not strong enough. Vent Fresh air fresheners allow you to control the scent of your vehicle. These scented oil air fresheners are easy to use and long lasting. Simply clip the air freshener onto the vehicle’s vent blades then turn on the air-conditioning or heat, and the flow of air will release the fragrance. There are two ways to adjust - either by twisting the Vent Fresh dial, or by adjusting the force of your car AC/vent fan.

Vent Fresh air fresheners are available in 6 different scents to match your mood or personal taste.

FOR MORE VISIT WWW.AUTO-EXPRESSIONS.NET

TITE-GRIP FLOOR MATS Floor mats can slip around and get caught up in the pedal, creating a very dangerous situation, so a solution to this is the Tite-Grip floor mat. The unique Tite-Grip technology locks the mat to the carpet, keeping it firmly in place. They have a one-of-a-kind anchoring system, which will secure the mat without causing damage to your vehicle’s interior. Tite-Grip floor mats are also removable, making cleaning very simple. They are available in black and grey.

FOR MORE VISIT WWW.AUTO-EXPRESSIONS.NET

LATITUDE WIPER BLADES Rain-X Latitude wiper blades offer ultimate visibility in rain, sleet and snow. Each blade contours to the unique curvature of your windshield, providing an even wiping pressure along the full length of the blade. Rain-X Latitude wiper blades are easy to install, and they can be used on almost any automobile. The long lasting squeegee resists cracking, splitting and tearing, as well as eliminates chatter at high-speeds. Rain-X Latitude blades also contain an ice resistant frame to assist in preventing snow and ice build up.

FOR MORE VISIT WWW.RAINX.COM 106 PERFORMANCE RACING NEWS

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9/7/2007 10:35:12 AM

Canada’s First Mobil 1 Lube Express Opens in Sarnia

National expansion planned for successful United States program Imperial Oil Limited has opened its first Mobil 1 Lube Express in Canada. The Sarnia site is the first of multiple Mobil 1 Lube Express locations that will be opened across Canada over the next several years.

“We are very excited about the opportunity to provide Canadian customers with convenient service, expert advice and quality oil changes and preventative services with a high-performance product they know and trust,” said Jeff Died-

erichs, marketing manager, lubes and specialties at Imperial Oil. “Mobil 1 Lube Express is the fastest growing quick-lube operation in the United States and is consistent with Imperial Oil’s synthetic lubricants growth strategy in Canada.”

Imperial Oil and Frank Montanino, owner and operator, are pleased to open the first Mobil 1 Lube Express in Sarnia. A second facility will open in Toronto in Fall 2007.

Imperial Oil’s Mobil 1 lubricants are the official

motor oil of NASCAR. An industry leader in the development of innovative, problem-solving lubricants, the Mobil 1 line of automotive lubricants includes motor oil, transmission fluid, gear lubricants and greases, and is one of a list of Imperial Oil performance products endorsed by North America’s number one motorsport.

For further information contact Laura Bishop, NATIONAL Public Relations at (403) 531-0331 or email lbishop@national.ca.

Motorcycle headsets Rider to Passenger Intercoms Stereo Helmet Speakers

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Brantford, ON 519.756.7610 - 519.753.7553 fax

HaveBus 19.04.indd 1

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Performance Racing 7/17/07News 2:01:27107 PM

9/7/07 4:12:28 PM

Gearing UP Fast Wheels Laguna F901

The sleek and contemporary design of the Laguna F901 makes it an instant classic. This two-piece forged wheel is engineered to deliver high performance and style and features a rare hyper silver finish with a chrome deep-dish lip. The Laguna is available in custom-built special order sizing ranging from 19- up to a stunning 22-inch size.

For more visit www.fastwheels.ca.

COMP Cams Embroidered Dri Mesh Polo Shirts

Keep cool with these red-hot Dri Mesh Polo Shirts from COMP Cams. The same shirts worn by their own personnel in the field, COMP Cams Dri Mesh Polo Shirts provide the driest moisture wicking protection available to keep you cool, regardless of the weather. Best of all, these shirts feature a full colour, high-quality embroidered COMP Cams logo stitched on the left chest for years of quality appearance. Made from 100% double poly mesh that stands up to repeated washings without fading. These shirts require no ironing and look great straight out of the suitcase – an important feature for traveling racers and performance enthusiasts.

For more call 1-800-999-0853 or visit www.compcams.com.

Mac Tools 5” Wet Sanding Block

Mac Tools’ new 5” Wet Sanding Block is a “Wet Wedge” water fed sanding block for professional use on all painted or primed surfaces. This product is designed to save time, sandpaper and ensure a perfectly straight finish. The 5” Wet Sanding Block is an absolute necessity in the auto body collision or restoration business.

Use the “Wet Wedge” prior to priming the vehicle, especially on all primer surfaces and color sanding.

For more contact your local Mac Tools distributor or call 1-800-MACTOOLS.

Mac Tools Universal Adapters

Mac Tools 1/2-inch to 3/8-inch and 3/8 inch to 1/2-inch Locking Universal Adapters are the solution to difficult angles and hard-to-reach fasteners. These adapters boast a locking collar that holds sockets firmly in place, and also allows for quick release when finished with the job at hand. The universal design allows entrance into tight areas with 360 degrees of swivel action for optimal access.

For more contact your local Mac Tools Distributor or call 1-800-MACTOOLS.

Mac Tools 5 Star Mercedes Mirror Tool

Mac Tools introduces the new 5 Star Mercedes Mirror tool. This 10-5/8” sized tool is designed specifically for use on Mercedes mirrors. Created with a long and short end for comfortable access to open and confined areas, the Mac Tools 5 Star Mercedes Mirror tool features: 5 Star Tamperproof design for use on T20 tamperproof torx plus fasteners, Short end features T20 size for use on torx plus fasteners and Comfortable, bi-material handle provides a non-slip grip.

For more contact your local Mac Tools Distributor or call 1-800-MACTOOLS.

108 Performance Racing News

Gearing Up v2 19.05.indd 2

9/7/07 4:28:31 PM

Red Line18.02.indd 1

5/4/06 2:46:23 PM

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Garys Speed Shop.indd 1

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WHERE ACTION IS THE ATTRACTION!

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NEW VANTASTIC RACES!!!

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110 Performance Racing News

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www.vpracingfuels.com 9/7/07 5:36:29 PM

Performance Racing News

Marketplace19.05.indd 3

111

9/12/07 4:52:42 PM

2007 MOTORSPORTS POINTS STANDINGS THE OFFICIAL AUTOMOTIVE RETAILER OF NASCAR IN CANADA. The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series marks are used under license by Destination Motorsports LP and Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited. NASCAR® is a registered trademark of the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, Inc.

FIA FORMULA ONE After 12 of 17 races

1 Lewis Hamilton............................................. 84 2 Fernando Alonso........................................... 79 3 Felipe Massa................................................. 69 4 Kimi Raikkonen............................................. 68 5 Nick Heidfeld................................................ 47 6 Robert Kubica............................................... 29 7 Heikki Kovalanien......................................... 19 8 Giancarlo Fisichella....................................... 17 9 Alexander Wurz............................................. 13 10 Nico Rosberg.................................................. 9

CHAMP CAR WORLD SERIES After 11 of 14 races

1 Sebastien Bourdais..................................... 301 2 Justin Wilson............................................... 243 3 Robert Doornbos......................................... 238 4 Will Power................................................... 228 5 Graham Rahal............................................. 209 6 Oriol Servia................................................. 204 7 Neel Jani..................................................... 203 8 Simon Pagenaud......................................... 192 9 Bruno Junqueira......................................... 191 10 Alex Tagliani................................................ 180

IRL INDY CAR SERIES After 16 of 17 races

1 Dario Franchitti........................................... 587 2 Scott Dixon.................................................. 584 3 Tony Kanaan............................................... 548 4 Dan Wheldon............................................... 449 5 Sam Hornish Jr........................................... 427 6 Helio Castroneves....................................... 414 7 Danica Patrick............................................. 405 8 Scott Sharp................................................. 382 9 Tomas Scheckter........................................ 345 10 Marco Andretti............................................ 338

CHAMP CAR ATLANTIC CHAMPIONSHIP 2007 Final

1 Raphael Matos............................................ 341 2 Franck Perera............................................. 310 3 Robert Wickens........................................... 255 4 James Hinchcliffe....................................... 224 5 Jonathan Bomarito..................................... 207 6 Giacomo Ricci............................................. 188 7 JR Hildebrand............................................. 140 8 Alan Sciuto.................................................. 140 9 John Edwards............................................. 125 10 Carl Skerlong.............................................. 114

IRL INDY PRO SERIES After 15 of 16 races

1 Alex Lloyd.................................................... 609 2 Hidekih........................................................ 481 3 Wade Cunningham...................................... 410 4 Jaime Camara............................................. 363 5 Bobby Wilson.............................................. 361 6 Mike Potekhen............................................ 349 7 Stephen Simpson........................................ 322 8 Logan Gomez.............................................. 318 9 Robbie Pecorari.......................................... 309 10 Chris Festa.................................................. 302

STAR MAZDA CHAMPIONSHIP After 10 of 12 races

1 Dane Cameron............................................ 381 2 James Davison............................................ 319 3 Ron White.................................................... 313 4 Nick Haye.................................................... 285 5 Jonathan Goring.......................................... 282 6 Devin Cunningham...................................... 277 7 Lorenzo Mandarino..................................... 267 8 Marco Di Leo............................................... 264 Alex Ardoin.................................................. 264 10 Russell Walker............................................ 245

AMERICAN LE MANS SERIES After 10 of 12 races

1 2 3 4 5

1 2

LMP1 R. Capello/A. McNish.................................. 197 M. Werner/E. Pirro....................................... 175 Clint Field...................................................... 95 Jon Field....................................................... 82 Chris McMurry.............................................. 75 LMP2 R. Dumas/T. Bernhard................................. 190 S. Maassen/R. Briscoe................................ 153

3

5

1 2 3 4 5

1 2 3 4 5

D. Brabham/S. Johansson........................... 103 A. Wallace/B. Leitzinger.............................. 103 G. Smith/C. Dyson......................................... 91 GT1 O. Gavin/O. Beretta...................................... 197 J. Magnussen/J. O’Connell......................... 165 Ron Fellows.................................................. 35 Max Papis..................................................... 26 A. Garcia/L. Halliday/D. Turner...................... 19 GT2 M. Salo/J. Melo........................................... 167 J. Bergmeister/J. van Overbeek.................. 131 W. Henzler/R. Lidell....................................... 85 T. Milner/R. Kelleners.................................... 72 Eric Helary.................................................... 71

GRAND-AM SERIES After 14 of 15 events

1 2 3 4 5

1 2 3 4 5

DP A. Gurney/J. Fogarty................................... 385 Sott Pruett................................................... 384 Max Angelelli.............................................. 382 Memo Rojas................................................ 359 D. Law/D. Donohue..................................... 327 GT Dirk Werner................................................. 345 RJ Valentine/A. Lally................................... 340 Bryce Miller................................................. 333 P. Edwards/K. Collins.................................. 330 Sylvain Tremblay......................................... 314

NASCAR NEXTEL CUP SERIES After 25 of 36 events

1 Jeff Gordon............................................... 3679 2 Tony Stewart............................................. 3362 3 Denny Hamlin............................................ 3335 4 Carl Edwards............................................. 3330 5 Matt Kenseth............................................. 3309 6 Jimmie Johnson....................................... 3249 7 Jeff Burton................................................ 3219 8 Kyle Busch................................................ 3199 9 Clint Bowyer.............................................. 3047 10 Martin Truex Jr.......................................... 3042

NASCAR BUSCH SERIES After 27 of 35 events

1 Carl Edwards............................................. 3828 2 Kevin Harvick............................................ 3174 3 David Reutimann....................................... 3171 4 Jason Leffler............................................. 3042 5 David Ragan.............................................. 2975 6 Bobby Hamilton Jr.................................... 2804 7 Stephen Leicht.......................................... 2691 8 Marcos Ambrose....................................... 2677 9 Greg Biffle................................................. 2652 10 Mike Wallace............................................. 2597

NASCAR CANADIAN TIRE SERIES after 9 of 12 races

1 Andrew Ranger......................................... 1472 2 Kerry Micks............................................... 1350 DJ Kennington.......................................... 1350 4 Peter Gibbons........................................... 1308 5 Don Thomson Jr........................................ 1303 6 JR Fitzpatrick............................................ 1298 7 Mark Dilley................................................ 1247 8 Derek Lynch.............................................. 1242 9 Jason Hathaway....................................... 1213 10 Scott Steckly............................................. 1161

FIA WORLD RALLY After 12 of 17 events

1 Marcus Gronholm......................................... 90 2 Sebastien Loeb............................................. 80 3 Mikko Hirvonen............................................. 69 4 Daniel Sordo................................................. 31 5 Petter Solberg............................................... 31 6 Henning Solberg........................................... 28 7 Chris Atkinson............................................... 25 8 Jari-Matti Latvala.......................................... 17 9 Toni Gardemeister......................................... 10 10 M. Stohl/D. Carlsson....................................... 9

NHRA DRAG RACING SERIES After 18 of 23 events

1 2 3

TOP FUEL Tony Schumacher..................................... 2178 Larry Dixon................................................ 2147 Rod Fuller.................................................. 2144

4 Brandon Bernstein.................................... 2092 5 Bob Vandergriff......................................... 2076 6 JR Todd..................................................... 2040 7 Doug Herbert............................................. 2032 8 Whit Bazemore............................................ 202 9 Melanie Troxel............................................. 841 10 David Grubnic............................................. 823 FUNNY CAR 1 Robert Hight.............................................. 2155 2 Mike Ashley............................................... 2134 3 Tony Pedregon.......................................... 2113 4 Ron Capps................................................. 2104 5 Jack Beckman.......................................... 2086 6 John Force................................................ 2060 7 Gary Scelzi................................................ 2042 8 Jim head................................................... 2031 9 Del Worsham............................................... 838 10 Kenny Bernstein.......................................... 739 PRO STOCK 1 Dave Connolly........................................... 2176 2 Greg Anderson.......................................... 2162 3 Allen Johnson........................................... 2095 4 Kurt Johnson............................................. 2094 5 Jeg Coughlin............................................. 2083 6 Jason Line................................................. 2061 7 Larry Morgan............................................ 2033 8 Warren Johnson........................................ 2020 9 V. Gaines..................................................... 765 10 Richie Stevens Jr........................................ 762

IHRA DRAG RACING SERIES After 7 of 11 events

TOP FUEL 1 TJ Zizzo....................................................... 566 2 Bruce Litton................................................ 538 3 Scotty Cannon............................................. 476 4 Bobby Lagana Jr......................................... 467 5 Terry McMillen............................................ 325 6 Doug Foley.................................................. 299 7 Jack King.................................................... 193 8 Jim Cavalieri............................................... 172 9 Jeffrey O’Neill............................................. 141 10 Mike Strasburg........................................... 129 PRO MODIFIED 1 Scotty Cannon Jr......................................... 450 2 Ed Hoover.................................................... 419 3 Quain Stott.................................................. 382 4 Pat Stoken.................................................. 369 5 Mike Janis.................................................. 337 6 Matt Hagan................................................. 335 7 Danny Rowe................................................ 320 8 Kenny Lang................................................. 303 9 Jim Halsey.................................................. 280 10 Jason Hamstra............................................ 256 ALCOHOL FUNNY CAR 1 Mark Thomas.............................................. 662 2 Rob Atchison............................................... 581 3 Terry Munroe............................................... 577 4 Larry Dobbs................................................ 424 5 Paul Noakes................................................ 306 NITRO FUNNY CAR 1 Dale Creasey Jr........................................... 697 2 Terry Haddock............................................. 464 3 Jack Wyatt.................................................. 463 4 Andy Kelley................................................. 423 5 Bob Gilbertson............................................ 361 PRO STOCK 1 Robert Patrick............................................. 585 2 Frank Gugliotta........................................... 538 3 Pete Berner................................................. 479 4 Steve Spiess............................................... 409 5 John Montecalvo......................................... 408 6 Brian Gahm................................................. 389 7 Robert Mansfield......................................... 351 8 Rickie Smith................................................ 254 9 Cary Goforth................................................ 224 10 Bob Bertsch................................................ 208

FIM MOTOGP CHAMPIONSHIP After 13 of 18 races

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Casey Stoner............................................... 271 Valentino Rossi........................................... 186 Dani Pedrosa............................................... 168 Chris Vermeulen.......................................... 144 John Hopkins...............................................140 Marco Melandri........................................... 126 Carl Edwards............................................... 100 Loris Capirossi.............................................. 98 Nicky Hayden................................................ 92

10 Alex Barros................................................... 83

AMA SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP After 9 of 11 events

1 Mat Mladin.................................................. 618 2 Ben Spies.................................................... 615 3 Jake Zemke................................................ 441 4 Aaron Yates................................................. 436 5 Tommy Hayden........................................... 429 6 Jamie Hacking............................................ 403 7 Miguel Duhamel.......................................... 360 8 Roger Lee Hayden....................................... 344 9 Eric Bostrom............................................... 336 10 Jason DiSalvo............................................. 335

CANADIAN SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP 2007 Final

1 Jordan szoke.............................................. 298 2 Steve Crevier.............................................. 290 3 Clint McBain................................................ 254 4 Kevin Lacombe........................................... 247 5 Brett McCormick......................................... 224 6 Francis Martin............................................. 164 7 Andrew Nelson............................................ 161 8 Pascal Picotte............................................. 148 9 Jean-Paul Tache......................................... 133 10 Frank Trombino........................................... 125

AMA SUPERSPORT SERIES After 10 of 11 events

1 2 3 4 5

Roger Lee Hayden....................................... 271 Jamie Hacking............................................ 262 Josh Hayes................................................. 260 Steve Rapp.................................................. 226 Tommy Hayden........................................... 193

AMA SUPERtock SERIES

1 2 3 4 5

Ben Spies.................................................... 292 Ben Bostrom............................................... 235 Aaron Yates................................................. 219 Geoff May.................................................... 203 Scott Jensen............................................... 189

AMA FORMULA XTREME SERIES After 10 of 11 events

1 2 3 4 5

Josh Hayes................................................. 324 Steve Rapp.................................................. 250 Larry Pegram.............................................. 212 Ben Attard................................................... 210 Anthony Gobert........................................... 209

CANADIAN PRO 600 SPORT BIKE SERIES 2007 final

1 2 3 4

Jordan Szoke.............................................. 311 Steve Crevier.............................................. 287 Andrew Nelson............................................ 224 Francis Martin............................................. 203 Brett McCormick....................................... 203å

CMRC MOTOCROSS SERIES 2007 final

MX1 1 Paul Carpenter............................................ 368 2 Colton Facciotti........................................... 272 3 Jeff Gibson.................................................. 271 4 Marco Dube................................................ 238 5 Jean-Sebastien Roy.................................... 233 6 Simon Homans............................................ 223 7 Mason Phillips............................................. 188 8 Kyle Keast................................................... 179 9 Ryan Lockhart............................................. 168 10 Jeff Northrop............................................... 154

1 2 3 4 5

MX2 WEST Jimmy Nelson............................................. 148 Ben Evans................................................... 140 Kyle Beaton................................................. 132 Gray Davenport........................................... 125 Eric Nye....................................................... 123

1 2 3 4 5

MX2 EAST Michael Willard........................................... 179 Tim Tremblay.............................................. 128 Tyler Medaglia............................................. 124 Freddy Karrle.............................................. 116 Jacob Saylor............................................... 109

standings as of sept. 4, 2007

112 PERFORMANCE RACING NEWS

Points 19.05a.indd 2

9/7/07 5:41:43 PM

marketplace Fuel Systems

Standalone ECUs

Pistons

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Camshafts

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Blocks

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Lightweight Forged Racing Wheels

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VISIT

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Performance Racing News

Marketplace-JRP 19.02 V2.indd 1

113

9/10/07 9:59:41 AM

4-wheel news

Acura . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 www.acura.ca

Nitro Moose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 www.nitromoose.ca

Angel Wings Trading Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 www.angel-wings.ca

Performance Cellar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 www.performancecellar.com

Anglo American Road Racing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 www.aaroadracing.com

Performance Improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 www.performanceimprovements.com

Bell Mobility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 www.bell.ca

Performance Racing Industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 www.performanceracing.com

Bell Racing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 www.bellracing.com

Quick Shift Racing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 www.quickshiftracing.com

Beyond Digital Imaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 www.bdimaging.com

Red Line Synthetic Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 www.redlineoil.com

Bully Clutch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 www.bullyclutch.com

Rocket Rally Racing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 www.rocketrally.com

Canada Wide Distributors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 www.canada-wide-parts.com

SCCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 www.scca.com

Canadian Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 www.canadiantire.ca

SH Karting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 www.shkarting.com

Castrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 www.castrol.ca

Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 www.shell.ca

Chag Autosport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 www.chagautosport.com

Toyo Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 www.toyotires.ca

Circuit Mont – Tremblant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 www.lecircuit.com

Valvoline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2. 37 www.valvoline.com

CRC Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 www.crc-canada.ca

Yokohama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 www.yokohama.ca

DMS North America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 www.dmsnorthamerica.com EMCEA Transport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 www.emcea.ca

Kymco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 www.kymco.ca Kawasaki Dealer Tag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 www.kawasaki.ca

JRP (Sparco) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 www.jrponline.com

Nexo Sport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 www.nexosports.com

JRP (Market Place) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 www.jrponline.com

Suzuki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 www.suzuki.ca

IHRA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 www.ihra.com

Suzuki Dealer Tag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 www.suzuki.ca

IAC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 www.iactech.com

JVC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 www.jvc.ca

Kawasaki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 www.kawasaki.ca

Karbelt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 www.karbelt.com

GP Bikes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 www.gpbikes.com

Lincoln Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 www.lincolnelectric.com

Edge Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 www.edgeperformancecentre.ca

Lucas Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 www.lucasoil.ca

Photo courtesy of yamahamotogp.com

Hyundai . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 www.hyundaicanada.com

Suzuki of New Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 www.suzukiofnewmarket.com

Hans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 www.hansdevice.com

Tissot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 www.tissot.ch

Grand Prix Imports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 www.grandpriximport.com

Toronto International Snowmobile, ATV & Powersports Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 www.torontosnowmobileatvshow.com

G-Force Racing Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 www.gforce.com

Yamaha . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 www.yamaha-motor.ca

Gatorz Glasses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 www.gatorz.com

Yamaha Dealer Tag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 www.yamaha-motor.ca

Fast Eddie Racewear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 www.fasteddieracewear.com

BMW Motorad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 www.bmw-motorrad.com

Meadowvale Ford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 www.meadowvaleford.com Mechanix Wear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 51 www.mechanixwear.com

2-wheel news

Mobil 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 www.mobil1.com NGK Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 www.ngksparkplugs.ca

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