Volume 13 Issue 1
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Price Per Copy $2.10
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CHRISTMAS IN DIXIE
see page 9
TAG USA™ News page 4
From the Seat page 6
Junior Sportsman 1 — #27 Austin Yarbrough
United States Grand Prix Notebook page 13
Former CES Champion Joins IRL page 15
Senior Champ Heavy — #88 Robert Shell and #99 Adam Schraadin
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..:: THELINEUP ::.. P.O. Box 759, Antioch, IL 60002 http://www.theinsidetrack.com
News TAG USA™ News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Christmas in Dixie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Andretti Enjoys F1 Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Buddy Rice and Matt Jaskol Take Victory at All-Stars Karting Classic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Sharp, Rice Team Up for Rolex 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 2007 Six Hours of Monte Carlo & St. Tropez . . . . . . . . .6 Snap-on Stars of Karting 2007 Technical and Homologation Regulations Online . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Karter Chris Festa Signs with Target Ganassi Racing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 The Unlimited All-Stars Announces National Ranking System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Graham Rahal Confirmed for Daytona 24 Hour Race Seat with Southard Motorsports . . . . .8
United States Grand Prix Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Karter Bobbie Wilson Signs with Brian Stewart Racing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Former CES Champion Joins IRL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Views From the Seat! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Chaplain’s Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
info@theInsideTrack.com Executive Publisher: Dave Larson Phone: 866-489-DAVE Fax: 847-395-2780 Business & Circulation Manager: Tamie Skowron Phone: 866-689-RACE Fax: 800-689-2FAX Production & Layout Manager: Jennifer Akers Editorial Consultant: Bob Cycon
News provided by the following contributing writers: Bill & Julie Alger, Kathy Barton, Joe Brittin, Rog & Judy Cummings, Scott G. Evans, Peter Frey, Jenny Gabel, Paul Gatewood, Don Janowski, KMI, Marc Miller, Maureen J. Miller, Mike Neal, Darrell Sitarz, B.K. Thee, Bruce Walls, Susan TaylorWalls, Greg Walters, Mark Watkins, Mark Weaverling. Contributing photographers include: Joe Brittin, Roy & Judy Cummings, Scott Edmunds, Ken Francke, Lance Goins, Ed Grabski, Bill Jurasz, Maureen J. Miller, John Nuttall, Joe Scarallo, Lawrence VanArkel, Bruce Walls, Susan Taylor-Walls, B.K. Thee. RETURN REQUESTED. Use P.O. Form 3579 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Inside Track PO Box 759, Antioch, IL 60002
Karting Konnections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
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ASA Racing Division Announces IRL Driver Search Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
New Indy 500 History Book a Must Have for Auto Enthusiasts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
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SunTrust Youth Racing Scholarship Goes to St. Louis’ Caleb Loniewski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
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TAGUSA™ by Dave Larson & Marty Casey President
Technical Director
New TAG™ Rules Available; First Qualifying Series of 2007 Set We at TAG™ Racing International are proud to announce that the 2007 TAG™ Rules are now up at www.tagracing.net. Please watch for updates and additions as we move forward into the season. TAG™ Racing International is also proud to announce the Formula Kart Racing Florida Winter Tour as the first TAG™ USA Qualifying Series of 2007. As the 2007 season begins this will be the first chance for TAG™ USA and TAG™ Racing International competitors to qualify for the 2007 TAG™ World Championships. TAG™’s Dave Larson stated, “Bill Wright produces one of the finest series in the United States and we are very excited that he has made the agreement to launch the first Qualifying Series of the New Year.” “I’ve been working with Dave and TAG™ USA for the last couple of years,” states FK’s Bill Wright. “I’m really happy to finally have room to include the TAG™ competitors, and want to personally thank Dave for allowing us to be a part of his TAG™ Worlds qualifying program.” Qualifying classes will include TAG™ Senior, TAG™ Heavy, Rotax Junior, Rotax MAX and Rotax Masters. For more information about the Formula Kart Racing Florida Winter Tour, presented by Tony Kart Florida, log on to www.floridawintertour.com. In other TAG related news the 2007 Kart Expo Seminar Schedule has been posted (see www.e-KMI.com, then go to “Kart Expo Update”). There will be a TAG™ Seminar on Saturday, February 24, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. featuring TAG™ Tech Q & A and it will be presented by Dave Larson, President of TAG™ Racing International, and Marty Casey, National Technical Director for TAG™ Racing International. We look forward to seeing all of you at KMI. Thanks for your support.
Dave Larson President, TAG™ USA TAG™ Racing International
Marty Casey Technical Director TAG™ USA / TAG™ Racing International
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Andretti Enjoys F1 Test Reigning Bombardier Rookie of the Year Marco Andretti turned his first laps behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car during a test for Honda on December 15.
to the Honda Racing F1 team on how professional and welcoming they have been this week, and I’m sure that they will have a good season next year.”
Andretti turned 68 laps with a best lap of 1 minute, 21.88 seconds, though an early session transponder error credited him with quicker times set by Honda Racing F1 test driver Christian Klein.
Andretti’s outing at the Jerez circuit in southern Spain was a reward for his stunning rookie season in the Honda-powered IndyCar Series car, in which he finished runner-up in the Indianapolis 500 in May and became the youngest winner of a major open-wheel event when he won at Infineon Raceway in August.
Andretti ended up 14th fastest among the drivers who tested, including two-time world champion Fernando Alonso and newcomer Lewis Hamilton for McLaren and Renault’s race drivers Giancarlo Fisichella and Heikki Kovalainen. “First of all, I couldn’t have had more fun today and it’s a shame that it was only a day,” the 19year-old son of IndyCar Series team co-owner Michael Andretti said. “It took me a little while to get used to the traction control and the brakes, but once I got to grips with them, the times were more and more consistent. I would like to say a big thank you
“It’s been great to have Marco with the team and in the car today,” Honda Racing F1 sporting director and 2003 Indianapolis 500 winner Gil de Ferran said. “He did a good job and acclimatized himself well to the unfamiliar surroundings in the very short time that a one-day test provides. Marco looked comfortable straightaway with the car and the track, and overall it was a good first experience in a Formula 1 car.”
SunTrust Youth Racing Scholarship Goes to St. Louis’ Caleb Loniewski Caleb Loniewski of St. Louis, Mo, is the inaugural recipient of the SunTrust Youth Racing Scholarship after his solid performance in the 2006 Snap-on Stars of Karting presented by IndyCar season. As part of its nationwide support of youth racing, as well as the series’ National Finals, SunTrust Bank, the Official Bank of the Snap-on Stars of Karting presented by the IRL, provided a $1,500 scholarship toward participation in the Skip Barber Karting Scholarship Shootout to the highest-finishing competitor in the ICA class at Toronto who signed up for the award. In addition, the scholarship recipient will be the guest of 2005 GrandAm Rolex Sports Car Series champion Wayne Taylor and SunTrust Racing at a 2007 Rolex Sports Car Series event. The 20-year-old Loniewski, a native of Michigan City, Ind., was actually the runner-up for the SunTrust Youth Scholarship. But original winner Eric Morrow,
who was the highest competitor to have registered for the award, also earned a scholarship to compete in the 2007 Formula BMW USA series, and that precludes his involvement in any other racing program. Thus, SunTrust officials awarded the prize to the runner-up which was Loniewski.
Loniewski, who has been racing karts for 10 years, stepped up to the Skip Barber regional ranks last year. He competed in the 2006 Skip Barber Karting Scholarship Shootout, finishing 26th out of 60 participants. The 2007 renewal of the Shootout is this weekend (Jan. 12-15) at Sebring, Fla.
“All of us in the SunTrust Racing family congratulate Caleb Loniewski as the inaugural recipient of the SunTrust Youth Racing Scholarship,” said Taylor, owner-driver of the newly formed Wayne Taylor Racing team that campaigns the No. 10 SunTrust Racing Pontiac Riley in the Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series, which kicks off its 2007 season Jan. 27-28 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway. “It is through the support of companies like SunTrust, which has come to be known as the Official Bank of Motorsports, that we can help ensure that the most promising young drivers get the best opportunities to develop into our racing stars of the future. We look forward to hosting Caleb at a Rolex Sports Car Series event in the coming year.”
Loniewski plans to increase his involvement in auto racing. Last weekend (Jan. 6-7), he scored two victories in the Sportsman class of the Skip Barber Southern Regional Series at Homestead ( Fla.) Miami Speedway. “I think this award really ties together a lot of objectives of both SunTrust and our series, and it’s a great way to cap off our first season together. The fact that SunTrust has reached out to younger drivers and tried to create connections for them with their Grand-Am team is impressive and we appreciate it,” said Series Marketing Director Jeff Swoboda. Drivers applied for the scholarship by signing up at registration for the Snap-on Stars of Karting presented by the IRL Finals in Toronto.
ASA Racing Division Announces IRL Driver Search Program by Larry Pond ASA’s ProAutoSports Division is teaming with Colorado Indy Racing LLC to run a 2007 SPEEDWAY DRIVER SEARCH Program at Firebird International Raceway in Chandler Arizona. This program will run February 1–20, 2007. Larry Pond, Managing Director of ASA–ProAutoSports, states, “This will be an excellent program for drivers seeking a chance to compete in the IRL Pro Infinity Series. If you think you have what it takes to drive an Indy Car, this is your chance.” Mike Lee, Director of Colorado Indy Racing LLC, states, “Our program is simple. Each selected participant will be scheduled for several test sessions on a chosen day between February 1 through February 20, 2007 at Firebird. All participants will drive one of our equally prepared IRL Indy Cars.” He continues, “Entrants will be judged on several different categories by experienced drivers, team owners and other motorsports personalties. Upon conclusion of the testing, the judges will select 8 semifinalists.” Larry Pond adds, “The 8 semifinalists will race in the ASA–
ProAutosports Pro-500 series for Indy Cars. There will be 6 races, three on ovals and three on roadcourses. These races will be held between March 1 and May 10, 2007.” He continues, “The driver with the most points will be selected as the Team Colorado Indy Racing’s driver in the Pro Infinity Series. And added to that, the entire competition will be filmed for a reality TV show to be aired on national television.” Mike Lee says “this opportunity is open to a limited number of selected entrants. The one time entry fee to participate is $3,995. This may be your chance, don’t hesitate, contact us now!” Contact for Driver Search Entry Package Mike Lee Phone: 719-380-7411 Email: tcindyracing@juno.com Website: www.coloradoindy.com Contact for ASA Pro-500 Indy Car Series and Other ASA-Road Course Racing in the Southwest Larry Pond Phone: 480-664-3872 Email: proautosports.com Website: www.proautosports.com
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FROMTHE SEAT by Greg Wright Rapid Racing Inc.
Genesis 2007, A new year, a Genesis, a new beginning. This writer for one is glad to put 2006 in the history books. This past year included some great events, some great racing, some great losses, and even some great controversies. However from my seat it was not a great year. Great events would have to include any of the Stars of Karting events, The TAG World Championships, the Vegas Supernationals, and of course NCMP’s Annual Race for Riley charity event, and the Robopong 200. Great racing occurred almost everywhere from the awesome KRA series at NCMP and obviously including all of the above races plus many, many more. Great controversies primarily revolved around the maturing TAG classes, mostly caused by various different people’s vision and/or misunderstanding of what TAG is all about, plus the staggering growth of Stock Moto/Spec Honda yet another misunderstood concept. But for this aging scribe the great losses overshadowed all of the above. Watching the modern transition of our sport, racing with our friends and rivals, listening to the incredibly stupid viewpoints on some of the larger controversies somehow just doesn’t seem as important right now. My wife and I endured the greatest possible loss when our 22 year old son was tragically killed in an accident on September 15. Total devastation is the only way to describe our loss. To those that have seen me since this date, I may not have been my usual jovial self but I hope you will understand. Only a few days later Hoosier Karting legend Harry Alkire suddenly passed away. It seems like I knew Harry my entire life and for those that did not know him, your life was a little bit poorer. For our personal losses there is a verse that I think fills the bill quite well. No farewell words were spoken, No time to say goodbye You were gone before we knew it And only God knows why But now it is a new year, and as mentioned above a new beginning. I for one can hardly wait for spring, and the beginning of racing season. The off season so far has been incredibly busy here at the palatial World Headquarters of Rapid Racing and I see some true growth at least in my local arenas for the coming season. NCMP seems to be growing from strength to strength with ordinary club races routinely pulling between two and three hundred entries, The Stars event, plus the CIK North American Cup, WKA Manufacturers Cup, plus the ever glitzier Race For Riley and the 200 miler (will Robopong sign on again?) all should be better than ever. Team Rapid Racing is expanding for 2007 with yours truly in the updated Top Kart Flash/Parilla, being joined by long time racer and friend Dave Cook, and the return of old buddy Pete Gross. This triumvirate is going to make a strong run for the KRA title in TAG USA Masters. Stay tuned for an updated website including a message forum at www.rapidracing.com. A new year, a new beginning, a genesis. It’s nearly time to go racing once again. ’Til next time… Race Hard, Race Safe, and God Bless America!
“When in doubt, Gas it. It won’t help but it ends the suspense!” 6
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Sharp, Rice Team Up for Rolex 24 IndyCar Series veterans Scott Sharp and Buddy Rice will join Brumos Racing teammates David Donohue and Darren Law for the Rolex 24 at Daytona. Sharp, the 1996 IndyCar Series co-champion and Rice, the 2004 Indianapolis 500 winner, will co-drive the No. 59 Red Bull Porsche Riley in the twice around-the-clock sports car event on January 28. “We are excited to have such eminent racers with such notable records join the Brumos Racing Team,” said team owner Bob Snodgrass.
2007 Six Hours of Monte Carlo It is probable we will have at least one seat available for the 2007 Six Hours of Monte Carlo endurance kart race, October 12–13–14. This is karting’s most spectacular event on the street course in Monaco. The cost is about $3,000 per driver (does not include personal equipment, travel and licensing).
contact me now. Reasonable experience required. We can assist with temporary license for this particular event (about $70 for a one-off international license). Our entry is confirmed for this race. There will be multiple opportunities to test prior to this race.
Our team, the official USA entry, will be full. If there is an interest,
2007 Six Hours of St. Tropez If there is an interest by a third or fourth driver, Paul and myself will file an entry for the Six Hours of St. Tropez, March 16–17–18. The race is seaside in St. Tropez. Promoters advise an improved course will be built for this event. Cost is about
$1600–2100 per driver (depending how many run). If there is any interest we need to know now to commit. Again, reasonable experience is required. Does not include personal equipment, travel and licensing.
Snap-on Stars of Karting 2007 Technical and Homologation Regulations Online
Karter Chris Festa Signs with Target Ganassi Racing
Snap-on Stars of Karting Presented by the IndyCar announced today the recent release of all pertinent technical documents for the 2007 season. Full access to these documents is available at the series website, www.starsofkarting.com in the Members Area at www.starsofkarting.info/members. html.
Another IndyCar Series team has seen the benefits of fielding an Indy Pro Series team.
Stars principal, Paul Zalud commented, “We are once again pleased to release the tech rules in a timely manner with more than four months to our first event. We have kept the number of changes to a minimum, focusing primarily on safety issues that we hope will benefit our customers.” Key in the group of documents is the 2007 Stars of Karting Technical Regulations. Technical rules structure is identical to past
years with Supplements 2007-1 and 2007-2 released in support of the parent document and specifying the protocols for engine, chassis and tire usage. Appendices One thru Five detail specific techniques and procedures, with numbers Six and Seven held back briefly, pending finalization of the Spec Racer class engine list. A summary document generalizing the significant changes in 2007 is also released for ease of reference. National Technical Director, Scott G Evans noted, “The release of a summary document in support of the Technical Regulations is something we do to help the competitor. Nevertheless, it is purposely kept general in nature to encourage reading of the actual passage.”
Along with the Technical Regulations, the current chassis homologation regulations and forms have been updated and released. There are no material changes to the program this year as Stars continues to accommodate the North American and fractional market. Interested manufacturers are urged to review the rules, make plans and contact Mr. Scott G. Evans at tech@starsofkarting.com to schedule an appointment for inspection.
Chip Ganassi Racing will expand its Indy Racing League program with the creation of a two-car Indy Pro Series effort to contest the 2007 season. Drivers Chris Festa and Pablo Perez will join the Indianapolis-based team’s stable of drivers that includes 2003 IndyCar Series champion Scott Dixon as well as 2005 Indianapolis 500 and IndyCar Series champion Dan Wheldon. “I am excited about this,” team owner Chip Ganassi said. “Despite the fact that we are involved in a number of racing leagues, I am a big proponent of open-wheel racing in the U.S. I feel it is a great form of racing, and anything that we can do as an organization to help cultivate young talent in the cars and also in the garage is a benefit to us as a team and the open wheel racing industry.” Target Chip Ganassi Racing, which will enter its sixth season of IndyCar Series competition in 2007, will utilize its team in the Indy Pro Series to gauge young drivers who compete in a diverse schedule that features seven races on ovals, seven on road courses and two on street courses. The benefits also include IndyCar Series bonus tests for the team and its drivers. Andretti Green Racing and Super Aguri Panther Racing also field cars in the Indy Pro Series. “We’re pleased to welcome Chip and the entire Ganassi Racing team to the Indy Pro Series,” said Roger Bailey, executive director of the Indy Pro Series. “The addition of Chip Ganassi Racing to our lineup of teams, which also includes IndyCar Series entrants Andretti Green Racing and Panther Racing, marks another step forward for the series.” Team managing director Hull sees the launch of the newest program not just extension of the Target IndyCar Series program, challenge in its own right.
Mike team’s as an team’s but a
“The Indy Pro Series allows us all to see the driver talent and future
stars of open-wheel racing,” said Hull. “It also enhances the talent this team has. This team has supported the development of young drivers for a long time, and we’re always looking for those that are starting to show promise. We believe that Chris Festa and Pablo Perez are those drivers for us. The Indy Pro Series program is just another way to do that.” “We’re doing this in support of the future of open-wheel racing and the Indy Racing League,” added Hull. “This program will be managed in house, as it should be done. The Indy Pro Series isn’t just an extension of our IndyCar Series program, it’s a good place to race and see upcoming talent.” Festa, a 21-year-old Atlanta native, will return for his third season of competition in the Indy Pro Series. He has 19 Top 10 finishes in 23 career starts. “This is a great opportunity for me as a driver to join a team of this caliber,” said Festa, who will drive the No. 9 Dallara. “Chip Ganassi has a great record of success in motorsports, and the team always does everything first class. There will be a lot of testing opportunities for a young driver like myself. I can’t wait to get out there and compete for race wins and the championship. I think I can be an asset and help my teammate and team to develop the program faster.” Perez, a veteran of South America Formula 3 competition, will drive the No. 10 car. “I am very happy to join Chip Ganassi Racing as they are a great team, very competitive and proven consistent winners,” the 24-year-old said. “I am also very excited about racing in the United States for the first time. Most drivers in Argentina always think about racing in Europe in Formula 1, but in my case, I always wanted to race in the Indianapolis 500. This is the first big step towards that ultimate goal. Racing in the U.S. will be a learning process and very different from anything I am used to, especially the ovals but I think it will be a lot of fun.”
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The Unlimited All-Stars Announces Graham Rahal Confirmed for Daytona National Ranking System 24 Hour Race Seat with Southard Motorsports The Unlimited All-Stars (UAS) continues to grow on the dirt tracks across the country. The Unlimited All-Stars was created to preserve and promote open class kart racing as well as a high level of ingenuity and sportsmanship. Presently there is official UAS action in Arizona, Southern California, Florida, Georgia, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina through out the mid-west, and Washington. It was only natural that these highly competitive people started requesting some sort of method of determining who the leading racers are. As a result, a system for ranking drivers nationally utilizing regional and national races was developed. Each UAS region has always held a series of races, usually between 6 and 12, to determine their regional champions. Defending regional champions are granted provisional starting positions at UAS national events. In 2006, three national UAS races were held, one in Florida, one in South Carolina and one in Ohio. The ranking system uses a combination of regional and national events. The system also allows drivers to compete in multiple regions to earn points for their national ranking. Keep in mind that this is primarily a ranking system to allow drivers to see how they measure up compared to other drivers across the country. In some ways it is similar to the system that ranks college sports teams even though they may never actually face each other. For 2007 three Unlimited AllStars official National Events are in the works. The first, the Second Annual UAS Winter Nationals will be December 31 when the Florida All-Stars in conjunction with the Florida Karting Association Dirt Series and AKRA meet up for Christmas in Dixie. The second will be the Summer Nationals at the Southern Kartway in Loris, SC, on August 10 & 11 and the third will be the UAS Fall Nationals at Good Hope Speedway in New Springfield, Ohio, on October 6 & 7.
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Naturally, the scoring system outlined in the official UAS National Rules will be the foundation of the system. That can be found at www.unlimitedallstars.org.
Graham Rahal will join Shane Lewis and Randy Ruhlman in the No.3 Southard Motorsports/ Preformed Line Products Lexus Riley for the 2007 Rolex 24 at Daytona later this month.
Regardless of where a driver competes his BEST 6 Race day totals from regular regional UAS races will be counted. In addition to that, the driver’s best two National Race daily totals will be added, however the National races will count double points.
The 18-year-old from New Albany, Ohio, was given his first taste of the team’s new car at a recent pre-season test and although his track time was limited, the youngster quickly settled in, turning competitive lap times as he acclimatized himself to the Lexus-powered sports racer.
Race 1 + Race 2 + Race 3 + Race 4 + Race 5 + Race 6 + (National x 2) + (National x 2) = total Everyone who runs in the UAS anywhere will have a National ranking. Using two nationals that are weighted heavier will break most ties. If there are any ties after that, so be it. For those who only run locally, at this time, only their best six races will count toward their 2007 national ranking. Their point totals will be lower than those who do run nationals but they will be consistent with others in other regions. Sure there will be ties but the system will give people and idea of where they stack up. Tim Taft, a regular competitor in the Great Lakes Unlimited AllStars has agreed to serve as the National Statistician. For more information about the Unlimited All-Stars and the UAS National Ranking System contact Mark Bergfelt (724) 847-3677, info@ bergfeltracing.com. In order to allow more racers the opportunity to compete in a UAS national in 2008, the UAS is looking for several additional high quality 1/5 mile or smaller dirt tracks in parts of the country that are presently un-served to host such an event. Interested parties should contact the National Office of the UAS. The national office of the Unlimited All-Stars is at 4412 W. 6th Ave., West Mayfield, PA 15010.
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Rahal competed in his first Daytona 24 hour race last year, driving a Porsche GT3 contender. This year he moves to the Daytona Prototype class with Southard Motorsports and is relishing the challenge that faces him in less than three weeks time. He says of the upcoming experience, “Kicking off my race season driving at Daytona will be a great start. I enjoyed my experience last year and having that under my belt gives me added confidence for my second attempt. Endurance competition
puts its own specific demands on the driver, distinct from single seater racing and requires a different approach and mindset. The physical and mental pressures of long-distance racing are very different and as well as adding to my race experience, also push my boundaries and give me new learning opportunities.”
the race, which opens on Thursday, January 25, with day and night practice and continues into Friday with further practice and qualifying sessions.
Rahal adds, “The goal, as always, is to win and that’s my over-riding focus for this race. It’s the most prestigious sportscar race in the USA, so I’m going all-out to capture victory. I can’t underestimate the field of drivers I’m driving with, which is a truly international field of top-flight racers from F1, NASCAR, Champ Cars, Sportscars and so on. That makes it all the more exciting for me!”
Son of Indycar legend, Bobby Rahal, the young racer was a stand-out in the Champ Car Atlantics Championship he contested in 2006 with Mi-Jack Conquest Racing. Finishing runner up with six podium finishes, he scored more wins than any other driver and with the first of his five victories he became the youngest ever Atlantics race winner. Notching up a string of accolades including 14 season records and receiving the BBS Rising Star award, Rahal is set to continue his motor racing career competing in the Champ Car World Series this season.
Rahal shares the Southard Motorsports/Preformed Line Products Lexus Riley with established sportscar racers, Lewis and Ruhlman for the 24 hour-long event held at the 3.56-mile road course at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. NASCAR great, Richard Petty, will be Grand Marshall for
The race starts at 1:30 p.m. local time, Saturday, January 27 through to the checkered flag on Sunday, 24 hours later.
For further information contact: Alison Hill, Alison@graham rahal.com Tel: +44 (0)7710 306588.
CHRISTMAS IN DIXIE Story by Bruce C. Walls Photos by Bruce C. Walls and Susan Taylor-Walls Weather forecasters predicted three days of rain December 28–30 for the Florida panhandle. Scheduled those days at Cross Roads Motorplex in Jasper, FL, the American Kart Racing Association (AKRA) Second Annual ‘Christmas in Dixie’ race sponsored by ARC Racing/Vega Tires. Despite dire forecasts, Florida’s East/Central Panhandle was perfect those three days. Highs in the mid 70’s provided great weather for the event.
Racers competed on the 1/4-mile top round 1/5-mile racing groove dirt oval and then on the final day, December 30, they headed across the facility to the 1/5-mile asphalt oval for a day of competition there sponsored by Jody Pierce Racing. The main attraction, Day Two’s twilight race Bordeaux Dyno Cams Stock Medium, with $1,500 waiting a winner at the strip. A second round of qualifying was
needed to fill the 40-racer field. Brandon McGee of Pohowotan, VA was the pole winner spinning a 14.203 seconds lap. Another Triple Crown winner, Brett Miller, shared front row. Waiting on the pole McGee said, “So far it’s lot of luck and some good tires. The kart did pretty good all day. We struggled yesterday. The track’s better today. Hopefully it won’t get too slick and we’ll be all right. I need to hit my line every lap consistently.” According to another contender, Jamie Knopf, of Lancaster, SC, “Hopefully the kart will stick. The track’s little slicker than I
Outlaw 100cc 2-cycle — #2 Matt Swiater and #6 Joey Turreyson thought so I hope I’m not in trouble. Hopefully we’ve got the right tires on. I don’t know if my kart’s good enough or not.”
Drivers lined up on the front straight, introduced then given the command to start their engines. McGee paced them around in a couple of warm-up laps before they took the green flag. Two laps into it the first of two yellow flags waved. Davy Hicken took the lead two laps later. From there it was green flag racing. Stephan Adams, of Greenville, NC, grabbed the lead for the first time only to have Hicken hustle by him again. With the final laps unfolding a three wide three way fight for the front raged. Adams got the best of them took the lead beating Miller to the stripe by just 0.125 of a second. “It was awesome man. It was awesome,” Adams, said of the pass for the lead. “He drove me clean, I drove him clean. It was a good race. I thought he was going to get me on the last lap. I held on-thank goodness. P&P’s horsepower was awesome. The whole kart was really great. My dad did a great job on tires. Brandon, Reed, Trip and all the boys that help me out. I also want to thank JDI Foodcraft, Lee and Kim Jones and everybody up there. Booth and Jones Insurance. I also want to say a big thanks to AKRA for putting on a great show.” More than 200 racers competed at each day of dirt racing. Nearly 100 entered the asphalt competition, which was a first for Pavement racers between the holidays traditionally held for dirt and other types of kart racing. Adams was one of two event multi winners. Josh Haire, of Erwin, NC, swept the Aim Sports Senior Champ classes from their pole completing the hat trick with another win in Vickory’s Speed Shop Super Heavy. His pole times were 15.630 and 15.225 seconds. Day one he dominated the nine racerfield from start to finish where his wire-to-wire run ended 8.248 seconds ahead of Ricky Bohatika. “The kart was pretty good. It had good bite, a little more than we thought it would,” Haire explained. “I want to thank the Lord most of all, my parents, Dave and everybody who came here and helped. I also want to thank Eddie Mishue for the motor and Trick/Olimpic for the new Riddler chassis.” Day two several more registered for the class adding some Dixie con’t on page 10 ->>
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->> Dixie con’t from page 9 competition. Haire had the pole, but this time he let Wes Simmons slip past him. Mike Mitchell got a piece of the lead and led the race’s only restart. Haire fell to third then fought his was back in time to take it with a 1.361 seconds edge over Mitchell. “The race track was good today, a lot better than last night.” Haire said adding, “It got a little slicker in that time so we went with the setup we had for qualifying last night. We messed up a little bit, but came out at the top.” Lonnie Keisler led G-Man Kart Works Super Heavy’s 11 qualifiers with a track blistering 14.863 seconds. Haire started third and jumped quickly into the early lead. Flooring it he built a 4.928 seconds advantage over Kyle Chappell at the end.
dirt track, Jackie Torreyson, Joe Torreyson and Monty Mashburn who all were in the final top five. Schreifels shot off the pole never seriously challenged on his way to beating Howe by 1.767 seconds. “I’ve never raced asphalt before. I was kind of getting the hang of it getting into a rhythm trying to keep the kart underneath me,” said Howe a Lake City, FL native. “I guess I slowed down a little bite. Towards the end I tried to pick it back up because I could hear them coming, but I held off and prevailed. I went as fast as I needed to I guess. I was fast enough to win. It was fun. I’ve never run asphalt before.
Earlier in the day Adams topped Walt Barnes Vinyl Siding Limited Modified’s qualifying with a super fast 13.964 seconds lap. He flawlessly led the 11-racer field from there scoring the win 5.903 seconds ahead of Keisler.
#24 Mark Hall spills out of his kart in turn one “The kart was hooked up great and Dan made the right call on tires,” said the 18-year-old winner. “The Mishue motor was awesome. I want to thank AKRA for having a place to race at during the holidays. I also want to thank Trip and Reed for all of their help, JDI Food Craft I wouldn’t be here without them so I want to thank them and everybody else who helped me. “I’ll put half of the money back in the kart program. As you can see I need new body work so I’ll put 1/2 into the kart and the other half I’ll put in the bank.” he said of his winnings” Quite a few dirt racers entered AKRA’s first pavement race. Some for their first time competing on pavement. Ed Schreifels was a perfect example of the later. Schreifels competes in the growing new Bully Clutches100cc Outlaw 2-Cycle class where he won wire-to-wire in day two’s dirt competition admitting later that, “I started getting in over my head a little bit. I’ve never raced asphalt before.” For being an asphalt rookie he didn’t do bad outrunning seasoned veterans like Wayne Howe who won day one on the 10
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Compared to the dirt it’s unique.” Veteran Ryan Glenski grabbed Southern Karting Junior Champ’s pole and was also never seriously challenged crossing the finish line ending with a 3.546 seconds victory margin over John Blacker. Chase Vaughan crossed third followed in the top five by Brady Todd and Kyle Bryant Kolors by Keisler Stock Medium’s win went to Jody Pierce, of Prattville, TN, who finished 0.705 of a second ahead of Walt Barnes. 18-year-old Bradenton, FL racer Nathan Wendrick captured ghost Dixie con’t on page 11 ->>
Animal Heavy — #33 Nick Adams races through traffic
Buddy Rice and Matt Jaskol Take Victory at All-Stars Karting Classic
Champ kart driver waits for traffic to clear so he can re-enter the field
->> Dixie con’t from page 10 Racing Animal Heavy’s victory over WMS Products Senior Champ winner Drew Fegert.
onboard a cruise ship. Space on the ship is limited and you don’t have to be a member to enjoy this cruise.
Full results from ‘Christmas in Dixie’ are posted at www.akrainc. com. Following the Pavement race an awards banquet was held under a huge tent. Photos from these events can be found at www.printroom.com/pro/DSAM. The 2007 banquet will be held Tires are an important part of kart racing
After setting up their PRI Trade Show displays and showing their wares to the motorsports industry the teams from the Snap-on Stars of Karting presented by the IRL shifted their focus to the inaugural All-Stars Karting Classic event just outside of the Convention Center. With one of the most star-studded karting fields ever in North America, practice kicked off at 4:00 p.m. and drew sizable crowds from the PRI Show attendees who wanted to catch a glimpse of the action outside. In the Masters division Bobby Wilson (Tony Kart), Wayne Taylor (SunTrust–First Kart), Memo Gidley (Secrets of Speed Trackmagic), and Buddy Rice (Tony Kart) put themselves at the top of the practice sheets. In the Karter Division Joel Miller (Tony Kart), Kyle Wiegand (Topkart), Matt Jaskol (Topkart), and Ron White (SSC East– Zanardi Kart) led the time sheets. Then, at approximately 5:30 p.m. rain descended upon the circuit that would not cease for the remainder of the evening. Gidley,
Bryan Herta (Topkart), and Steve Johnson (First Kart) all bolted on sets of Bridgestone rain tires and took to the track to get some laps with wet weather setups. Then, at approximately 6:00 p.m. the rain turned into a downpour, making the track unfit for the scheduled qualifying sessions. This meant that the Snap-on Stars of Karting officials had to retreat to reports from Doppler Radar to look for a spot in the weather forecast when the rains would let up in which the race could be run. It was decided that starting positions would be decided on practice times and both the Masters and Karter Divisions would run their respective prefinals and Final events, but the scheduled blending of the top Karters into the back of the Masters field would not take place. At 7:30 p.m. when the rains let up the Karter Division took to the track for their first prefinal. Ron White made an impressive charge to take the lead on lap four from pole sitter Joel Miller. White would then spin in turn one, handing the lead to Wiegand who would secure the pole for the Final. Dion Von Moltke (SSC East–CRG), Matt Jaskol (Topkart), Joel Miller (Tony Kart), and Stuart Marsell (Arrow) would round out the top-five. In the Masters Division Prefinal Bobby Wilson would pull away to take an impressive victory with Tony Kart teammate Buddy Rice coming home second. Memo Gidley would come home third with Bryan Herta and Anthony Foyt IV (SSC East–CRG) making an impressive run to round out the top-five. Interestingly, NHRA star Ron Capps (BTK–Arrow) took sixth with fast laps within three tenths of a second off of the front-runners. In the Karting Division Final Topkart teammates Matt Jaskol and Kyle Wiegand would pull away from the field. Jaskol eventually was able to get by Wiegand and hold on to take the victory, with Joel Miller making an impressive charge up to third to round out the podium. Stuart Marsell and Ron White rounded out the top five. Matt Jaskol,
a graduate of and former winner in the Formula BMW series, would graciously gift the Jensen MotorSport provided Formula BMW test prize to his teammate, and race runner-up Kyle Wiegand. Then all attention would turn to the Masters Division Final, with favorites Bobby Wilson, Buddy Rice, and Memo Gidley leading the field to the green. At the first corner however the complexion of the race would be set as Wilson and Gidley tangled, causing both of them to drop to the back of the field and handing the lead to Buddy Rice. Bryan Herta would make his best efforts but didn’t have enough for Rice who would hold on to take the victory. The podium would be rounded out by Anthony Foyt IV, who quickly adapted to his CRG in his first return to competitive karting in six years. Bobby Wilson and Wayne Taylor would round out the top-five with Ron Capps proudly representing the drag racing contingent coming home in sixth. Although the downpour conditions would take the on-site crowds out of the equation of the All-Stars Karting Classic, the intense nighttime wet-weather action with some of racing’s top stars will make for two great television broadcasts, made possible by Snap-on Tools, on the Versus Network. The promotional avenues provided by the PRI Show organization including an appearance for 3,500 attendees of the PRI Show Grand Opening Breakfast appearance by Bryan Herta and Buddy Rice in their respective Topkart and Tony Kart machines, on-site fireworks, searchlights, and stage lighting all provided an element of pizzazz never before seen in North American karting. Most importantly, the karting exhibits on the PRI Show Floor have been packed with solid business taking place, solidifying the investment put forth by the elite operations in the Snap-on Stars of Karting presented by the IRL to participate in the event. Those with any interest or inquiries regarding the event should contact Jeff Swoboda at jeff@starsofkarting.com.
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New Indy 500 History Book a MUST HAVE for Auto Enthusiasts Motorsports fans and historians have a new book to put on their “must-have” list: the Autocourse Official History of the Indianapolis 500 by Indianapolis Motor Speedway Historian Donald Davidson and motorsports author and historian Rick Shaffer. The 368-page “coffee table” book offers a definitive history of the Indianapolis 500-Mile Race, telling the story of “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” from the track’s pre-Indy 500 years in 1909–1910, to the events that led to the inaugural Indianapolis 500 in 1911, to Sam Hornish Jr.’s stunning victory in the 90th Indy 500 in 2006. Davidson and Shaffer have been students of Indianapolis 500 history for decades. Thanks to their dedication, readers of the Autocourse Official History of the Indianapolis 500 will enjoy a thorough, lively account of each year of the Indianapolis 500 in an engaging narrative format. Their words are complemented by nearly 1,000 black-and-white and color photographs, plus reproductions of many Indianapolis 500 program covers. “The Autocourse Official History of the Indianapolis 500 is an excellent source for Indianapolis 500 historical reference,” said IMS CEO Tony George. “The pages of this book contain one fascinating story after another and draw the reader into the rich traditions and heritage of the world’s greatest race.”
contains the names of each of the 708 drivers that have competed in the “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” through 2006, plus the official box score of every race. The book is available at official Indianapolis Motor Speedway retail locations: Purchase securely online at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s Brickyard Authentics Online Store at www.indianapolismotor speedway.com; at the Official Trackside Gift Shops located in the IMS Hall of Fame Museum; at the Brickyard Authentics Retail Store at the Indianapolis International Airport; and via IMS Mail Order at (800) 955-INDY. ★
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2007 Indianapolis 500 tickets: Tickets are on sale for the 91st Indianapolis 500, scheduled for Sunday, May 27, 2007. Tickets can be purchased at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s Web site, www.indianapolismotor speedway.com, by phone or at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Ticket Office. The IMS Ticket Office can be contacted at (800) 822-INDY outside the Indianapolis area or (317) 4926700 locally. Ticket Office hours are 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Parking and camping permits for “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” also can be purchased online, by phone or at the Ticket Office.
Besides the facts readers expect from a highly detailed history, the book contains numerous “sidelight” stories about nine decades of Indianapolis 500 personalities and traditions. “The photo captions and sidestories contain colorful anecdotes in the hope that readers will be able to turn to any page, read an item and say, ‘I didn’t know that!’” Davidson said. “We have tried to not only provide factual information about each year, each triumph and each controversy but to also put a human face on the many significant figures in Indianapolis 500 lore.” For Indianapolis 500 statistics aficionados, the book also
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United States Grand Prix Notebook
drive the McLaren-Mercedes on Dec. 15 at Spain’s Jerez circuit.
Formula BMW USA returning to support USGP: Formula BMW USA will return as a support series for the 2007 United States Grand Prix, the fourth consecutive year the development series will race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
“We enjoy a very good relationship and considering his work and his fabulous achievements these past two years with the double world titles in 2005 and 2006, we decided to give him this opportunity,” said Renault team principal Flavio Briatore.
IMS is one of seven venues on the 2007 schedule released Dec. 13 by series organizers, with two rounds contested at each venue. The two races during the USGP, June 15–17, will be the fifth and sixth races of the season for Formula BMW. Each race lasts 30 minutes. Formula BMW USA will race at IMS one week after it supports the Canadian Grand Prix at Montreal. Formula BMW is a leading entrylevel championship in worldwide formula racing, with series in 2006 contested in Germany, the United Kingdom, Asia and the United States. More than 80
promising worldwide.
drivers
competed
The FB02 race car is propelled by a 140-horsepower BMW engine, reaching speeds up to 140 mph. Formula BMW USA joins the Indy Pro Series and the IMSA GT3 Cup Challenge presented by Michelin as support series for the 2007 United States Grand Prix. ★
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Alonso tests McLaren: Fernando Alonso had his first test with McLaren-Mercedes, the team he will drive for in next year’s 17-race FIA Formula One World Championship season that includes the United States Grand Prix at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on June 17. Alonso, World Champion in 2005 and 2006, is under contract with Renault until the end of December, but after last minute negotiations he was allowed to
Alonso wore a plain white driver suit and helmet, and there were no sponsorship decals on the car. He completed 95 laps and set the third-fastest time of the day. His best lap time was 0.25 of a second slower than the quickest driver that day, rookie Lewis Hamilton, who will be Alonso’s teammate in 2007. “I’m pleased that I was able to drive the McLaren Mercedes F1 car earlier than expected and would like to thank Renault and Flavio Briatore for agreeing to this,” Alonso said in a statement released by McLaren. “I’m really excited about the future and would like to wish everybody a
CHAPLAIN’SCORNER by Kenneth Dressler Racers For Christ & Chaplain of the Margay.com Championship Enduro Series
Looks Aren’t Everything When we look at a racing kart what do we see? A tubular frame bent and welded together in precise engineering technology. Four tires mounted on polished aluminum rims connected to the kart through bearings on an axle and steering spindles. We see a steering wheel, molded seat and best of all an engine of compact size and low weight, able to produce a good power to weight ratio. Yes, that’s what we see physically, but we see much more than that. To a kart racer any kart set up to run is the most beautiful thing on the earth, because it is not just what we see, but what we feel. We just don’t see the physical make up of a kart, metal and rubber, but we perceive and can almost feel its need for oneness with us, as needing a racer to get in it and run it through its paces. We perceive it’s steering wheel in our hands, right foot in the gas and left foot off the break running it on our favorite race track, desiring to run it to its limits to see what it can do. A racer looks beyond what you see. Have you seen a picture of Jesus lately? If you did, you knew immediately it was Him. But what did you see, perceive, or understand beyond His picture? Maybe you would perceive Jesus on a cross inside a church you have gone to. Maybe you would think of a religious symbol far removed from the problems and realities of today. Maybe you would remove Him quickly from your thoughts in fear of being confronted with some sin you’re living in. Or what would really be neat, if you thought, “If what I heard about Him is true, I wish He were alive today and I could meet him.” For most of us a picture of Jesus would bring about some internal reaction, some feeling. Our perception of a kart after looking at it is one thing, but let me help you see Jesus according to truth, for that is of much more importance. To know about Him, the Bible says all the books of the world could not contain the things He did. That is a way of saying, we are limited in our comprehension of Him, for He is God and we are not. When we see a picture of Jesus our perception of Him can go beyond what we know about Him, for we can know Him personally. The Bible tell us that for one thing, “Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever more,” Hebrews 13:8. Jesus is alive and is available for all of us. Proverbs 18:24 says, “There is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.” Hebrews 4:15–16 talks about His association with our needs, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with out weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are, yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” And best of all we can be so close to Jesus that we can possess Him, or He can possess us. 1 John 5:12, “He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.” Isn’t it great, that in knowing Jesus, we know that we have eternal life. I would pray that the next time you look at a picture of Jesus your heart would be stirred, because you love Him and know Him as your Savior and Lord. If we turn from sin and trust in His death and resurrection for our sin, we will see Him for all eternity. — Chaplain Ken
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.” ★
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Final tests: All the teams, except for Spyker, participated in two three-day test sessions at the Jerez circuit. The tests, which ran from Dec. 6-8 and Dec. 13-15, were the final time the F1 cars were on the racetrack in 2006. The fastest drivers, respectively, in each day of the tests were: Felipe Massa (Ferrari), Lewis Hamilton (McLaren-Mercedes), Rubens Barrichello (Honda), Heikki Kovalainen (Renault), Pedro de la Rosa (McLarenMercedes) and Hamilton. No testing will now be permitted until mid-January 2007. ★
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Speed’s test cut short: Scott Speed, America’s only F1 driver, spent four days in his Scuderia Toro Rosso during the two Jerez tests. He covered 152 laps in all, but his final two days were cut short because of wrist pain from an accident Dec. 14 caused by a mechanical failure. While not severe, the wrist injury also forced Speed to pull out of the Race of Champions, the allstar event Dec. 16 that pitted top drivers from many types of worldwide racing against each other on a special rallycross track in the massive Stade de France soccer stadium in Paris. ★
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Andretti samples F1: Reigning Indianapolis 500 Chase Rookie of the Year Marco Andretti test an F1 car for the first time, with the Honda Racing F1 Team, at Jerez on Dec. 15. “First of all I couldn’t have had more fun today, and it’s a shame that it was only a day!” Andretti said. “It took me a little while to get used to the traction control and the brakes, but once I got to grips with them, the times were more and more consistent. “I would like to say a big thank you to the Honda Racing F1 Team on how professional and welcoming they have been this week, and I’m sure that they will have a good season next year.” Honda gave Andretti the opportunity in recognition of his achievements in the Hondapowered IndyCar Series this year. IndyCar Series Rookie of the Year Andretti scored a win on the Infineon Raceway road course, and finished second in the Indianapolis 500 in his first attempt. While he enjoyed the test, Andretti remains committed to Andretti Green Racing and the IndyCar Series. He says his goal now is to win the Indianapolis 500.
2003 Indianapolis 500 winner Gil de Ferran, who is the sporting director of Honda’s F1 effort, praised Andretti, who completed 68 laps and set very respectable lap times. “It’s been great to have Marco with the team and in the car,” he said. “He did a good job and acclimatized himself well to the unfamiliar surroundings in the very short time that a one-day test provides,” de Ferran said. “Marco looked comfortable straightaway with the car and the track, and overall it was a good first experience in a F1 car.” ★
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F1 goes green: The FIA and the Grand Prix Manufacturers Association have agreed on a long-term plan to use F1 technology to improve engine and fuel efficiency, and to research other areas to help make the automotive industry more environmentally friendly. The FIA said in a statement that the objective of F1’s technical rules would be “to promote research relevant to the motor industry… to eliminate developments which do not meet these criteria, to reduce costs while improving cost effectiveness, and to keep and augment the image and excitement of F1 as the world’s leading motor sport category.” One of central parts of the plan will be developing systems that recover the “waste” heat generated from exhaust gases and braking and use it to propel the car. To save costs, the current basic engine specifications will be frozen for the next four years. ★
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F1 star Regazzoni dies: Clay Regazzoni, a winner of five Grands Prix in the 1970s, died in a traffic accident Dec. 15 in Italy. He was 67. Regazzoni, a native of Switzerland, finished second in the 1974 World Championship while driving for Ferrari. He finished in the top five in points in four other seasons during the 1970s before his career ended due to paralyzing back injuries suffered in an accident in the 1980 United States Grand Prix at Long Beach. He continued to compete in rallies and sports-car races in specially equipped cars after his accident. A passionate racer, Regazzoni placed 30th in his sole Indianapolis 500 start, in 1977. ★
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Schumacher honored: Seven-time World Champion and five-time United States Grand Prix winner Michael Schumacher has received a number of honors following his retirement. US Grand Prix con’t on page 14 ->>
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->> US Grand Prix con’t from page 13 The FIA awarded him the FIA’s Gold Medal, which is given to an individual that, either through exceptional success, or outstanding effort, has made a substantial contribution to motor racing. “I have received a huge amount of joy and pleasure from motorsport,” Schumacher said when presented with the medal at the FIA’s year-end banquet. “To all of you and all of the people everywhere I really want to express my thanks. I have had such a love for this sport—it doesn’t need motivation. You do it as good as you can, and luckily I have a lot of great people around me who have allowed me to achieve what we have achieved together.” Sir Stirling Moss, one of the sport’s greatest drivers during the 1950s and early 1960s, also was awarded the FIA’s Gold Medal. Ferrari presented Schumacher with a massive trophy that is 5 feet high and weighs 440 pounds. It is inscribed with each of the 72 Grand Prix victories he earned with Ferrari, including his five wins at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Maranello, the Italian town where Ferrari is based, made Schumacher an honorary citizen. ★
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Testing agenda: Like the rest of the teams, McLaren-Mercedes used the end-of-season test sessions to get information on the new Bridgestone tires and evaluate components of its 2007 car.
builds experience of running with other cars,” Whitmarsh said. ★
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Renault drivers satisfied: Giancarlo Fisichella and his new Renault teammate, rookie Heikki Kovalainen, were happy with the work they accomplished at the Jerez tests. “This was a good conclusion to a productive session,” Fisichella said. “The data we gathered will definitely help us for our work in 2007. I am now more comfortable with the new tires.” Kovalainen showed he is not daunted by taking the seat of McLaren-bound Fernando Alonso by consistently setting some of the quickest lap times. “Everybody worked hard once again,” Kovalainen said. “We need to analyze the data in order to be ready in January to start testing with the new car. These last sessions gave us a good view on different areas, such as the tires and the new gearbox.” ★
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Massa confident: Felipe Massa is confident Ferrari made progress in the December tests. “Our car is consistent,” he told the Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport. “From the start, I’ve adapted well to the new tires and the gearbox. The others have gone faster in this test session, but we constantly work on race setup with a lot of fuel on board.”
“The primary focus of the three pre-Christmas tests has been the learning process between ourselves and Bridgestone,” said McLaren CEO Martin Whitmarsh. “We have been able to gather valuable data on how to get the best out of the Bridgestone Potenzas, and we are currently feeding this back into the (2007) MP4-22 program. “The drivers have also been working through various development programs for the MP4-22, such as suspension, aero and setup work.” McLaren also continued its intense training program for rookie driver Lewis Hamilton. “With Lewis, we have also spent time on activities such as putting him out in traffic so that he
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Karter Bobbie Wilson Signs With Brian Stewart Racing Bobby Wilson has signed with two-time defending Indy Pro Series™ team champion Brian Stewart Racing as driver of the No. 1 Brian Stewart Racing entry in 2007. “I’m extremely happy that Bobby is joining the team,” said team owner Brian Stewart, who was inducted into the Canadian Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2005. “He was high on our list of drivers who we would like to have driving for us. He raced for us in 2005 and sat on the front row at Infineon. Last year, he won at Watkins Glen. He’s a shifter kart champion, a (Formula Ford) Zetec champion. He’s a proven winner.” Stewart thinks the addition of Wilson can lead to a third
consecutive entrant championship for his team. Wade Cunningham, the 2005 Indy Pro Series champion, helped the team win the last two team titles by recording four victories and 21 top-five finishes in 24 starts. “Bobby’s extremely capable of filling Wade’s shoes,” Stewart said. “Winston Churchill said, ‘Give us the tools, and we will finish the job.’ That’s what we plan to do with Bobby. We’ll give him the car, and he’ll do his job.” Another championship would also be Wilson’s third, albeit his first at this level of racing. The 25-yearold, who boasts sponsorship from Ocala (Fla.) Gran Prix where he is a karting instructor, captured the Stars of Karting championship in 2003 and the Cooper Tires Formula Ford Zetec championship in 2004.
He debuted in the Indy Pro Series with three races for Brian Stewart Racing in 2005. Last year, he split the season between Michael Crawford Motorsports and Kenn Hardley Racing, finishing fourth in points. “I’m excited about running for Brian Stewart Racing,” said Wilson, who tied for the Indy Pro Series lead with 11 Top 10 finishes in 2006. “Taking Wade’s seat is a tall order to fill, but I think I can pick up where he left off. “I’m definitely going to be in the lead pack. Last year, I was looked at as a rookie, which led to some conservative setups on the ovals. I showed I was fast at the last race in Chicago. That was a confidence builder.” The pursuit of championship No. 3 will begin March 24 at Homestead-Miami Speedway.
Former CES Champion Joins IRL Sam Schmidt Motorsports added Indiana native Logan Gomez to its 2007 Indy Pro Series driver lineup Jan. 4, signing the 18-yearold to a one-year contract with an option for 2008. Previously, the team signed two-time race winner Alex Lloyd for the season. Gomez was one of only two 17year-olds to have competed in the Indy Pro Series. The Crown Point, Ind., native finished 10th in the Liberty Challenge on the road course at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in June. “I couldn’t be more pleased with our program for this coming season,” Gomez said. “This will be the best environment for me to pursue my dream of competing at the Indianapolis 500. The team has won two of the past three driver championships in the Indy Pro Series and is the most successful team in the series’ history. Everyone within the team is very professional and easy to get on with so I am sure we are going to have a lot of fun and a lot of success.” “We are extremely pleased to announce that Logan will be competing with our team for the full season,” said Sam Schmidt, whose team has won 13 races the past three seasons. “Born and raised in Indiana, he is a perfect
example of the type of driver the Indy Racing League was established for. I also personally look forward to working with someone who is so young, talented, energetic and a quality individual. I’m sure the combination of his talent and our team’s experience will be very successful.” Gomez, known in Midwest racing circles as ‘The Indyana Kid,’ began his winning ways in go-karts at age 9, competing nationally in World Karting Association, SuperKarts USA, Enduro and Stars of Karting events. In 2005, he won the SKUSA Super Nationals ICC 125 shifter class. He also was a Skip Barber Scholarship Winner and Red Bull F1 Driver Search semifinalist. Last year, he finished seventh in the Star Mazda Championship and was voted the Most Improved Driver with eight top-10 finishes. “Our goals for this year are to compete at the front on a regular basis, finish races and gain valuable experience,” Gomez said. “Having Alex as a teammate will be a big benefit from a learning perspective. All the elements are in place for a very successful year, and I can’t wait to begin testing for the upcoming season.”
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CLASSIFIEDS Slingshot Enduro Chassis. 2-TT75 Engines. Brembo Brakes. Digatron, 2 sets wheels & tires. Full range of gears. Many extras. Electric winch lift. Pusher. $2,000 or best offer for all. Dick Kizer (309) 266-6280 or (309) 266-6280. 2001 Coyote Thrasher (2) One has been raced 3-1/2 years. History: Three championships in the Yamaha Sportsman class, 1/2 year Yamaha Sportsman class and then retired midseason on top of the class. Very straight never bent. Micron, tires, wheels, (5) clutches, assorted gears, bodywork, starter, assorted parts too much to list. $1800.00 o.b.o. The other Coyote had been driven one year in the Jr. Briggs Lite class. It also comes with full bodywork, Micron, tires, wheels, gears, (5) clutches and assorted parts. $1800.00 o.b.o. History: very straight never bent. 2004 Precision Racecraft with bodywork, tires, wheels, Micron, gears, clutches. History: finished first in the Briggs Medium class. Never bent. $1,600.00 Call Chuck Freiberg at (708) 906-6606
Three 100cc Yamaha Can Division Karts: One Indy & two Slingshot chassis. Three sets—racing gears, starters & stands. All new bodywork on all three karts, lots of extras. $2000.00 each. Call Herb Eckhart at 1-888-776-5455. SuperCharger: I have a complete SuperCharger with motor, gears and mounts that I will sell separately. Nick Lewis was the 1999 Briggs WKA Supercharger Champion. Call Ed Lewis at 636-745-3322. WANTED TO BUY—Obsolete engines & parts. B-Bomb, Komet, BM, Atlas McCulloch. Any condition Parilla. Call or Fax info to 1-217-442-8326. 1995 BANDIT B.O.S.S.—Oval Chassis (fully adjustable) w/ 5 H.P. Briggs Engine. 2 races on frame, 2 seasons on motor. Full body, side panels, and pusher nose. *All spares & tolls included $1,800.00–O.B.O. Call George at 630-897-3075 (Home) 630-677-1311 (Cell) 1999 U.S. Cargo trailer. 6X14, model #USC610SA, color white. One side door & one drop down rear door (ramp door), 12 volt dome lights with one wall switch, non powered roof vent, ATP stone guard and single axle. Nice, clean trailer. Waxed at least 3 times a year. Asking $2500.00, firm. Call Joe or Kelly Mandarino at 630-469-0360. Glen Ellyn, IL
Two Motorola Racing Radios: Two antennas, two push-to-talk buttons, one headset w/batteries, chargers & case. $1000.00 for all. Call Herb Eckhart at 1-888-776-5455.
Classified Order Form
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My driver is in college and is no longer racing. Double Kart Stand, Starter, Bead Breaker, Gears, CRG Cali Kart, Moore Engine, and much more. Call Bart Mooney (630) 820-0341 or email gokartmom13@aol.com. FOR SALE: Exceptional indoor go kart facility (31,000 sq. ft.) houses family entertainment center (video arcade and snack shop) with two professionally designed race tracks for state of the art one and two seat electric powered go karts. Great opportunity to expand current business with focused advertising campaign and sponsor advertising in the arena atmosphere. Annual revenue $216,000. Asking price $299,000. Contact Pete Rich (585) 247-4750 or prich@amdbizbrokers.com
DEADLINES FOR NEXT ISSUE Advertising and Classifieds due by Friday, 5:00 p.m. week before issue.
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RACE READY—JUST ADD DRIVER & GAS. 2006 Margay 1.6 Chassis, Adkins HPV, Micron, Douglas wheels, rain tires and extra parts. Excellent condition, only raced 3 WKA events, ready for Daytona. $3,000.00 Call Bart Mooney (630) 820-0341 or email gokartmom13@aol.com.
Stories, Photos, Results due by Friday, 5:00 p.m. week before issue.
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FOR SALE: Complete two enduro kart racing set-up with or without trailer. Karts equipped with 4 wheel brakes, clutches, gauges, plus kart stand and many extra parts, plus 3 Yamaha KT 100cc engines—$2,250 without trailer or $3,990 with a 2000 6 x 6 x 12 cargo trailer with camper feature. Ken Dressler (262) 392-8018 Dousman, WI.
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Deadline for material is February 9 Publishing next on February 15
# Exp. Date Call 866-689-RACE or mail this form to The Inside Track PO Box 759, Antioch, IL 60002
The Inside Track P.O. Box 759 • Antioch, IL 60002 Phone:866-689-RACE Fax: 800-689-2FAX
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