Motorsport News Issue 184 - July 21-August 3, 2000 by V8 Sleuth

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mtltrspMi Issue 184 21 July - 3 August 2000

INSIDE

News and Opinion 6 7 10 24 26 84

Ford ready to win Revised front underwing Webber at Benetton? Our man linked with Flav again HRT drivers latest Plato, Muller, Noske ... Pretty? Motor Mouth The Rat gets into reverse The Box Seat Saward talks unicycles Talk Converter Readers' opinion

Features 28 52 64 72

Tender speaks his mind Why isn't Ford winning? Michelin's GP comeback France's tyre guru gets ready The Funny side of Life NHRA's Boom category On the Road Again Brooke Tatnell hits the highway

Race Coverage 18 34 42 44 WEBBER: Bye bye Arrows, hello Benetton?

imotiftr* 1 n!

new

Andretti goes Canadian Michael hits 40 in Toronto Bargwanna's Winton double Carnage everywhere in Victoria Formula Holden Leahey doubles over - at last Mika makes it, maybe He wins, but may lose it... Oran Park Super Tourers Morris works for two more wins

Regular Departments

ferd’S OUNT

gets the tvMouig feeJkig

get 4 better fewit niag

Photos: Cover: Noel Papelera, Dirk Klynsmllh and Sutlon-lmages. Contents: Bob Potts, Slipstream, Klynsmith, NHRA and Sutton-lmages.

22 58 62 64 68 70 74 79

Motorcycles Rallying Histories Drag Racing NASCAR Speedway National Scene Marketplace 5

Ford ready to win

GLENN Seton is heading to Oran Park next week convinced Ford’s first Shell Series round win is close despite the fact that he is unlikely to have the first of TEGA’s newly legislated ‘common’front undertrays in place in time. Seton looked a likely winner at Winton on merit last Sunday, until the lead bunch hit an oil slick early in the final race, and is confident his team has turned the corner. “Earlier in the year we were happy to get podiums,” he told Motorsport News this week,“and the fact that we were able to do that consistently has kept us in the championship. However, as the weekend showed, we can realistically go to the track now looking to win. “We have to win some races if we’re going to challenge for the title. We’ve done well at Oran Park before and we have to go there looking to win.” Despite the best efforts of the combined Ford teeun resources, Glenn has dismissed the possibility of his car being fitted with the first of the revised Falcon front air dams(see separate stoi-y), which will now incorporate a Holden-style fi'ont undertray, for Oran Park: . “There was a suggestion from ^the other Ford teams that if we all pulled out all the stops and had a couple ready for Oran Park, then I would use them. “It was a good thought, but realistically it’s all but impossible to do a good job of making the first ‘buck’for what we are going to have and have any ready for Oran at all. I’ll hold off and hopefully all the main Ford teams will have them for Calder.” Glenn was remarkably philosophical about his departure from the lead of race three at Winton, despite concerns from other drivers that there were no warning flags: “If I’d seen it a tenth of a second earlier. I’d have been able to flick the car in over the kerb and maybe gotten away with it,” he mused. “But once it had gone, my first thought was where we were going to end up so that the whole field didn’t drive into me! “As it went around, I gave it a big burst of throttle, so that it would spin off the road, which it did. Thank goodness...” 6

WCi*e getting stonger, says Seton J

Split decision: Seton won a race at Winton and is now looking for a strong finish to 2000. (Photo by Marshall Cass)

FORD TO GET'HOLDEN' UNDERTRAY FOLLOWING testing at Queensland Raceway last Monday, V8 Supercar teams’ group TEGA has moved swiftly to implement what will be termed a ‘common’front undertray. Back-to-back testing of a current Ford front air dam against a test unit - with what amounts to a Holden underwing - showed sufficient disparity to back Ford teams’ pleas for equalisation. The testing on the ‘TEGAsponsored’ day was carried out using Mark Larkham’s Mitre 10 Falcon. The TEGA Board met last Friday and agreed to make the change forthwith, as part of its technical equalisation policy. The change has to go to CAMS for ratification, but- despite the current legal standoff between the two groups - there is not expected to be any resistance to the change. Interestingly, little difference was found when a Holden rear wing was substituted for its Ford counterpart and thus no change is proposed in that area. As part of the deal, both Ford and Holden will submit to aerodynamic testing as soon as Ford’s revised

front air dam is complete, to physically measure front and rear downforce and overall vehicle drag. It is in Ford’s interest to complete the process sooner rather than later as part of the decision handed down by TEGA insists that failure to do so will result in the cars returning to ‘currently homologated’trim for Bathurst. Changes may also be made if the aerodynamic testing brings forth a disparity. Response to the change appears to be supportive from both sides of the Ford/Holden fence, with Ford teams pleased that what they have seen as a major inequality has been righted. The test results also cast doubts over the way in which the current AU Falcon underwing was originally designed and tested - but that is another story... The gain, according to Ross Stone, isn’t likely to be in outright pace, but consistency; ‘This undertray is less sensitive to pitch changes,” he said. “It gives more consistency into a corner- it won’t affect qualifying much, but it should make the car more consistent and easier to drive over a race distance.”

Brooke Tatnell hurt in US crash AUSTRALIAN Sprintcar star Brooke Tatnell has been injured in a scary crash in the Preliminary Feature at the super fast half-mile Eldora Raceway, Ohio on July 14. Having won the B-Main, the two-time MotorSport Speedway Racer of the Year advanced to the Feature and started at the rear of the pack, but spun in turn two and was hit at full pelt by Craig Dollansky, who badly bruised his leg in the wreck. Tatnell received a compressed back and neck injury in the crash where both cars flipped and were totalled. At last report Tatnell was in hospital and is expected to make a complete recovery from his injuries. American driver Brian Paulus subbed for Tatnell in the following evening’s King’s Royal event. See page 72 for Wade Aunger’s insight into Tatneli’s World of Outlaws campaign. - MARTIN D CLARK motorsport nows

NEWS *■

MARK Webber’s name continues to be linked with the Benetton FI team. A hectic fortnight for Webber has concluded with his name again being mentioned as a possible replacement for Alexander Wurz, who has come in for a major verbal slagging from team boss Fla\do Briatore after another lacklustre perfoiTuance at last Sunday’s Austrian GP. FI reporter Joe Saward reports that pit lane rumour at the weekend was again suggesting that Wurz could go as early as this week, now that his ‘home’ GP is over. The rumours were so strong that it forced the team to put out a press statement on Monday to confii-m that Wurz would in fact remain for next week’s German GP! Current test driver Antonio Pizzonia is being touted as the most likely replacement if Wurz’s departure is relatively imminent, but we hear the team hasn’t been totally impressed with his testing efforts and, according to Saward, Webber’s name keeps coming up... "I haven’t heard the rumours myself," Mark told us on 'Tuesday, "although I did hear Mr Briatore’s comments on Austrian 'TV. "But for me the situation is really no different £o how it was earlier in the year. 'They (Benetton) appear to be

interested in me and keep in regular contact. For sure it would be gi-eat to be a part of the team with the return of Renault to FI, but there’s nothing much concrete in it at the moment." It prortdes an up-beat conclusion to a roller-coaster fortnight during which the Queanbeyan export firstly had his scheduled Arrows FI test cancelled but then returned to the sharp end of the F3000 field with fouilh place at the A1 Ring. The Arrows test fell over following disagreement between Webber and Tom Walkinshaw’s team over Mark’s contractual situation. As the test neared, Webber was presented with a contract from TWR which, as he put it, "tied me up with no real guarantees of anything other than testing for this year and next year. At this stage of my career, I couldn’t agree to that. "Believe me, it wasn’t ftm to have to walk away from an FI car sitting there with your seat in it, but it was the right thing to do..." Discussions went on imtil literally half an hour before the start of the test when, after a final conference wdth his management, Webber informed the team that he couldn’t sign. At that point the test was cancelled, regular driver Pedro de la Rosa being recalled for duty.

ecfitik Rumours have quickly followed that Webber will be offered a test at Benetton. Former TWR man Gordon Message (Benetton’s motorsport manager) is a Webber fan and is miderstood to have put the Australian’s name forward to Briatore. At the same time, there are suggestions that a second, un named, team has also been in touch with Webber. WHILE a return to pointsscoring, with fourth in Sunday’s F3000 round, is a step in the right direction, Wehher’s Austrian resxdt coidd easily have been substantially better. Having qualified third, Webber led into the first comer, but straggled for traction for the first few laps and was passed by several cars. "We lowered the pressures on the grid because the tyres were getting quite hot on the I'ollthrough laps, and for the first five laps 1 had no grip at all," Mark explained. "I’m not sure whether that was the whole reason, but it’s the only thing 1 can think of at the moment. After that the car was fine..." Webber re-passed team-mate Christian Albers cmd Sebastian Bourdais and with the original fi'ont row given a Stop-Go for a jmnped start, ended the race challenging Brit Darren Manning for third.

21 July 2000

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Put it in reverse: The three remaining sprint rounds in the Sheii Series (Oran Park, Calder and Sandov/n) wiii feature a reversed top six in the second race, as is the case in the Konica Lites series. After initiaiiy backing a\way from the idea for Winton, TEGA wiii implement the format from Oran Park onwards. There is talk of possibly increased the number of inverted cars to 12 or more. That's on the grid, not upside down on the track ... ■ Larry Perkins' Winton shunt has delayed the departure of the car to New Zealand. The Team Kiwi-bound VT was due to leave our shores today (Thursday) but will not hit the high seas on the Tasman until Monday. Perkins' new car is almost completed but he will drive his 'fourth' Commodore, earmarked for . him and Russell Ingall to drive in the ; Queensland 500, at Oran Park. ■ Speaking of Perkins, the list of young drivers in contention to drive the second Castrol Commodore in the enduros is firming up. While the team itself is not talking about just who is and who isn't on that bit of paper, we hear that the name near the top of it starts with Marcos ... ■ Jason Bargwanna has become the second of the Holden Team of Champions to carry the Olympic torch. The Winton round winner joined the national relay in Narracoorte in SA, taking the flame at 9:56am on Tuesday. Todd Kelly had his carry last week in WA. ● ■ One man who will not be driving an HRT car for a while is Paul Morris. The Queensland driver will be relying on either of his two Big Kev's VSs for a little longer than planned after Holden Racing Team Manager Jeff Grech decided to hang on to the team's fourth VT until the end of the season. Given the carnage at Winton, it seems like a fair idea ... ■ Mark Larkham has confirmed that Geoff Brabham will join him in the Mitre 10 Falcon for the Queensland 500. Brabham will drive in place of Bathurst co-driver Alain Menu who has a clashing BTCC race on the September 10 race weekend.

Arrivaderci Orange? Webber's name continues to be linked to Benetton.

Reverse gear

(Photo by SuttOD'lmages)

■ The motorsport industry was shocked to hear of the untimely death of popular Garry Rogers Motorsport team member Ricky Rush late last week. The 33 year-old had been around engines and motor sport for many, many years, particularly in association with Les Small and, most recently, Garry Rogers, with whom he was a firm friend, A graveside service was scheduled for noon today (Thursday) at the Lilydale Memorial Park. 7

Leahey in frame for GRM THE pieces of the V8 endurance driver puzzle are all beginning to fall into place. We expect the Valvoline Cummins team to announce Winton Formula Holden round winner Tim Leahey as the team’s fourth driver in the second of the Garry Rogersowned Commodores for the Queensland 500 and Bathurst 1000. Leahey would therefore fill the fourth seat in the team and partner Greg Ritter in the #35 car, while Garth Tander and Jason Bargwanna team up in the lead #34 car. Former Valvoline Formula Ford drivers Steve Owen and Marcos Ambrose were also names mentioned in regards to the seat but M News expects Leahey to get the drive. The 24-year old tested with Tander, Bargwanna and Ritter at Winton prior to the Shell Series round, and on top of that, Leahey was also spotted in the V8 pits on Sunday at . Winton in a Valvoline team shirt, reportedly for a quick photo shoot ... Leahey was unable to confirm anything to Motorsport News when contacted this week, still on a high after his weekend success. Team owner Garry Rogers was unavailable for comment. What Leahey could confirm though was that the NRC Racing engine he used at Winton would again be in his car for the next round of the Formula Holden series at Oran Park on July 30. The Orange-based driver began his VSSupercar career as a test driver for the first incarnation of CAT Racing in Western Australia at the beginning of last season, before joining John Briggs in the Super Cheap Falcon for the endurance races. Prior to that he had been a leading campaigner in the national Formula Ford series, finishing third in the 1998 championship. He has been campaigning a Kevin Murphy-run Reynard 92D in the Holden Australian Drivers’ Championship this season and despite bad luck and mechanical failures, is fourth in the championship. -AARON NOONAN 8

No decision on ingaii charge RUSSELL Ingall may face a charge over comments that were made following his penalty at the Queensland round of the Shell Championship Series earlier this month. Last Sunday evening at Winton Ingall and team owner Lany Perkins were called to appear before a CAMS steward enquiry, called to establish whether Ingall would be charged with bringing the sport into disrepute. A decision from the enquiry is not expected to brought down before the next round of the championship at Oran Park on July 30. Ingall clashed with Mike Imrie’s Commodore at Queensland Raceway and said afterwards that would "do it again, if necessary" and questioned whether some drivers possessed the necessary qualifications to race a V8 Supercar. Motorsport News Editor Phil Branagan was called as a witness by Ingall, primarily to explain whether the reaction from MN readers fell under the definition

of‘bringing the sport into disrepute’. MN received about 10 letters and e-mails regarding the issue, readers for and against Ingall’s view split about evenly. At the same time, the current issue of CAMS’s magazine includes an article by Chris Edwards (Assistant Manager, Motorsport) which brings up the matter of driver conduct and bringing the sport into disrepute.

Dario/Jag deal "d

IT now appears almost certain that Dario Franchitti will quit Champ Cars to join Jaguar’s Formula One team in 2001. Franchitti, who was due to test for Jaguar at Silverstone on Tuesday and Wednesday this week, has apparently agreed terms to join the British outfit. Jaguar Racing is continuing to downplay the test’s significance, stating that Franchitti was to "fulfill a long-held ambition when he tests a Formula 1 car". But British magazine Autosport reports that team insiders have called the test is little more than a formality, and that the deal is "95 percent finalised". The 27-year-old Scot’s appearance in FI would be a boon for the championship, especially in the USA. Franchitti has a high profile in the States, particularly because of his upcoming marriage to actress Ashley Judd. He flew to the UK directly after

Still in green: According to sources Fra last Sunday’s Toronto CART roimd, during which he collided with rival Juan Pablo Montoya on the opening lap. He is likely to return to Michigan next week for the next molorsport news

NEWS A DECISION whether Mika Hakkinen will keep his Austrian GP win is expected to be made in London today (Thursday). The Finn’s 16th career victory is at risk because McLaren-Mercedes MP4/15 was found to be missing one of the ofBcial FIA seals on its electronic control box, which controls most of the car’s engine functions. The car technically failed post race scrutineering but it is now up to the FIA to decide whether Hakkinen should keep the win. McLaren chief Ron Dennis has said he was satisfied that the software was legal on the car. "We are satisfied that it complies with the regulations," he said. However,FIA president Max Mosley would not be drawn into the issue. "I cannot make any comment at this stage," he said. While Hakkinen could be excluded from the race, giving David Coulthard the win, it seems unlikely. But rival teams point out that Michael Schumacher's Benetton and David Coulthard's Wilhams were disqualified from first and second places in the 1995 Brazilian GP when the Elffuel samples taken from both cars, though conforming with the rules, were found not to match the sample lodged with the governing body prior to the race. Then, Schumacher and Coulthard were allowed on appeal to keep their points in the Drivers' World Championship while

■ James Courtney finished second in the 10th round of the British Formula Ford Championship at Snetterton in Norfolk last weekend. Flis Van Diemen factory teammate, Swede Robert Dahlgren, won the round with the Sydney driver's main rival, Briton Mark Taylor, third in a French-built Mygale car. Dahlgren took the chequered flag 2.28s ahead of Courtney, with Taylor another 7.5s back. Courtney still retains the championship lead.

Hard at it: Team engineers check Mika Hakkinen’s McLaren-Mercedes.

Mika

(Photo by Sutton-lmages)

Benetton and Williams were stripped of their Constructors' points. The rules were subsequently amended, and this rule can only now be applied in "exceptional circumstances." Should Coulthard inherit the win he would move within two points of series leader Michael Schumacher and Ferrari would ‘regain’ the Contructors’ points lead which McLaren took in Austria.

Wodonga TAPE course continues

chitti has already done an FI deal. (Pholo by Sutton-lmages)

round of the series. Franchitti has strong links with Jaguar director Jackie Stewart, having driven for Paul Stewart Racing in both Formula Vauxhall and British Formula Three. 21 July 2000

WODONGA TAPE is to continue with its Diploma of Engineering (Motorsports) after a successful start to the program this year. The course, which had its first intake of 21 budding race engineers in January this year, has been overseen by the college’s Doug Partington, formerly the man responsible for Shell Racing’s merchandising program. The two year course provides 1670 hours of tuition, covering 44 competencies. As well as circuit racing, subjects cover specialised areas like motorcycling, marine, off-road, rall3dng and speedway racing. It also takes the students away from the nuts and bolts of the sport and into the realms of report writing, public speaking and travelling and living skills. Support from the industry has

been very strong, with Honda Australia and Pennzoil supplying product for the course, which has also attracted input from Brad Jones Racing, which is situated in nearby Albury. One young engineer was selected to spend a month on-site training with Cameron McLean’s V8 Supercar team in Brisbane and attended races in Adelaide, Eastern Creek and Canberra. CAMS Technical Director Peter Lawrence, Bridgestone’s Racing Manager Graeme Brown and race brake expert Barry Smith have all lectured to the students. Selection for the second intake of students begins in July and details are available on 02 6055 6657 or on the web at www.wodonga.tafe.edu.au or email Doug Partington at dpartington@wodonga.tafe.edu.au for more details.

■.Whispers have CAMS this week notifying its Victorian regional track safety inspectors receiving notification of their dismissal. It is believed regional director, Phil Buggee, and his two 'deputies' were expecting written notification of their demise as MN went to press. a Following on from the success of last week's meeting regarding veteran drag racer Jim Read's proposal to build a stand-alone drag strip in Sydney-over 1500 people . attending that meeting-another » gathering will take place this Sunday (July 23) to finalise details for a motorcade protest into Parliament House in Sydney. Those intending to take part in the motorcade need to attend the meeting, which will take place at Unit 1/87 Kurrajong Ave, Mt Druitt. It begins at 10am.

I I

■ Penalty kicks; The hearing into the contact between Mark Skaife and Neil Crompton at Winton resulted in no action by officials. So too did the Morris/Fauikner incident (both drivers contributed to the incident), the same finding for the Ingall and McConville contact in race two. Stewards fined the Ultra Tune team $250 for breachinglesting regulations for failing to advise AVESCO of change of circumstances and for testing without an AVESCO Test log book. The stewards found that the team had shown intent to inform of their request to test at Eastern Creek on July 14, even though it fell within the two days prior to the required regulations. Steve Reed was found to have re entered the circuit in a dangerous manner in the second practice session at Winton and was fined $500, Rick Bates was fined $400 was exceeding the pit speed limit while Steve Ellery was fined $1000 for contact with Rodney Forbes at QR.

■ Jason Bargwanna's overall win last Sunday helped Holden break a 10-year-old record for most wins in succession for a manufacturer in the Shell Series. Bargs' win was the 16th straight Shell Series round win for Holden. Ford's Sierra RS500 Cosworth previously held the record at 15 in 1988-89. Ironically, that run was broken at Winton in 1989 by George Fury (Nissan Skyline).

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i n [motorsport] Shell Championship Series V8 Supercars* Jul 30 Oran Park . .Rd9 .RdIO

Aug 20 ...Calder Park Sep 10 ...OLD 500 .. Oct8 .Sandown

.Rd 11 .Rd 12

HRT drops Noske

Will Nathan Pretty be in the picture? HOLDEN Racing Team has made a shock driver switch, dropping Mark Noske from the team’s line up for the Queensland 500 and the FAI1000 at Bathurst.

World Superbike Championship* ■Rd 10 Aug 6 ....UK .Rd 11 Aug 27 ...TBA ●Rd 12

Sept 3 ... .Nettieriands

Noske, who was expected to share a car with Todd Kelly in both events, was told on Monday that his services were no longer required. "I was completely stunned," said Noske on Tuesday. I had been offered a retainer and prize money package and given continual promises over a 10 week period that my contract would be ‘ready to sign in a few days’." The team then told Noske that he would be released to pursue the Nations Cup crown in the Prancing Horse Ferrari.

FIA Formula One World Jui 30

Championship Germany

.Rd 11

Aug 13 . . .Hungary

.Rd 12

Aug 27 . . .Belgium

.Rd 13 Rd 14

Sep 10 . . .Italy

FIA Formula 3000 International Championship Jul 29 . . . .Hockenhelm

.RdS .Rd9

Aug 12 . . .Hungaroring

While Noske is now seeking another drive for the V8 endures, the seat in the second HRT car at the Q500 and the Bathurst Young Lions drive is up for grabs. While the team is not expected to announce a driver for at least a week, Motorsport News believes that the leading contender is Nathan Pretty. The Wodonga driver tested for the team late last month, running a series a mid lm24s laps and impressing the team with his feedback. Both Pretty and Gavin Monaghan were thought to be in contention for race drives with the team until Vauxhall’s Yvan Muller and Jason Plato were ‘placed’ with the team via GM’s “ motor racing network (see below) While the team has publicly supported the arrival of the Bnton and the Frenchman,it has long voiced a policy of supporting young drivers and it is likely that HRT management has made the decision to make the cap.b.e.f

.RdIO

Aug 26 . . .Spa

FIA World Rally Championship* .Rd9 Aug 20 . . .Finland .Rd 10 Sep 10 . . .China . Oct 1

.Rd 11

. . . .France

NHRA Winston Drag Racing Series Jul 30 . . . .Seattle . .

.Rd 15

Aug 6 . . . .California

.Rd16 .Rd 17

Aug 20 . . .Minnesota

FedEx CARTfChampionship Series* .Rdll

Jul 23 . . . .Michigan .

.Rd 12

Jul 30 . . . .Chicago .

.Rd 13

Aug 13 . . .Ohio . . . .

.Rd 14

Aug 30 . . .Wisconsin

.Rd 15

Sep 3 . . . .Vancouver

Australian Rally Championship* .Rd5 Aug 27 . . .Melbourne . . .Rd6 Oct 8 . . . .Tasmania . . .

Pretty was present at Winton last weekend and stayed Gun for hire: Mark Noske.

.Rd7

Nov 12 . . .Rally Australia

SOOcc World Grand Prix

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and confirms Plato

Motorcycle Championship* .RdIO Jul 23 . . . .Germany .

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Aug 20 . . .Czech Rep.

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Sep 3 . . . .Portugal . .

.Rd 12

Sep 17 . . .Valencia . .

.Rd13

Oct7

.Rd14

JASON Plato will drive for Holden Racing Team at Bathurst. 'The team has confirmed that the Vauxhall BTCC driver will line up in the second Commodore VT in November. As exclusively rt ported last issue, he wiU be

. . . .Rio

Holden Australian Drivers' Championship* Jul 30 . . . .Oran Park

Rd 7

Aug27 . . .Mallala . .

,Rd 8

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local race and while saying nothing about his future, (Photo by Dirk Klynsmilh)

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partnered by Frenchman Yvan MuUer. The two V8 rookies are expected to have at least one day’s testing with the team prior to the race. Neither will be available for the Queensland 500 because of the race. clashing Oulton Park BTCC , , Plato, 30, wUl be one of the better credentialled rookies’to appear in the event. At his only previous Bathurst start, he started second in Williams’ Renault Laguna and overtook Paul Morris’ BMW half-way around the first lap, setting a lap record on his way to buUding a 20s-plus lead. The car retired in the second half of the race when co driver Alain Menu ran over a kerb and damaged the car’s differential. Menu, who drives for Ford in the BTCC will race against Plato and Muller in Mark Larkham’s Mitre 10 Falcon. Muller, who has a gi-eat deal of ice-racing experience, is likely to qualify the car, according to BTCC piuidits. -PHBLBRANAGAN

, .to W

Coming soon: Jason Plato. (Phoiobysutton-imagos)

motorsport news

-rf

News Plato speaks

n The carsales.com.au V8 Lites team will run a second car beginning at the Lakeside round at the start of August. Craig Bastian, who drove Richard Mork's Commodore at the Phillip Island round of the series, will drive the recently acquired ex-CAT Falcon EL in the final two rounds of the series. Bastian will bring One.Tel backing to the car.

Motorsport News: You've been to Bathurst, in 1997 in a Super Tourer, but this is a different kettle of fish. Jason Plato; Yes it is, and I'm looking forward to it. It's great to get the opportunity to get back and race around that great track. It's one of the best tracks I've ever been to^in my life. '■ Couple that to the fact that I'm getting to drive a V8 and it's going to be brilliant. MN: Especially with that team. JP: It couldn't be,any better. Works team, best car, and the nice thing is they want to do it properly. They want me to come over and do a test session and it's brilliant. It's like having your birthday and Christmas all in one go. MN: You've driven for some good outfits, with the Williams-Renault BTCC team. Triple 8 and now HRT. What are you expecting? JP: More of the same, to be honest. I don’t know a great deal about Aussie touring cars, apart from what we get to know in the industry and what we watch on TV. I expect them to be right on the pace and do the job properly. MN: Any concerns about the fact that you and Yvan will be sharing a/ car and there isn't an experienced local to 'show' you the way? JP: No. I know the circuit, even if it's not as well as the locals, but well enough to be quickest around there in 1997. If we weren't having a full test program before the race, we'd be biting off a fairly major chunk of the Mars bar, The difficult thing will be getting to know the car and being happy with it but, with enough miles, it will be 'Crack on!' MN: There's obviously going to be at least one test day. Do you know the plan yet? JP: To be completely frank, we haven't had the full schedule from the team yet, but I believe there is going to be a ‘ few test days. ■ But one day is prpbably going to be enough to get the feel for what the thing is about. If we can do more than that - and I think there is more that that scheduled - the more the better.

■ Glenn Seton broke a long drought of wins with his race two win. The Victorian's last race win came at Symmons Plains in round two of the 1998 series.

TOYOTA management is continuing to iook at a V8 Supercar assauit. Last weekend reports appeared in the Fairfax press, including the Melbourne Age, which said that Toyota chiefs were "pushing for approval for a full V8 (sic) racing campaign for its new Avalon”. While the reports appear a little preifiature, Toyota’s Peter Evans said that there has been some progress but that the company still has V8 Supercar racing in its sights: "It hasn’t really changed since you (MN) and others made reports some time ago," he said. "(Toyota Australia Chief Executive) John Obnomos is on the record as saying that Toyota was looking at the opportunity to get involved and we are more predisposed to look at it as time goes by." If Toyota does green light the program, Avalon V8s would not be seen on the track before the first race of the 2002 season, about the same time as the

company launches its Formula One racing program. Company representatives have met with AVESCO’s Tony Cochrane to discuss the possibility of racing in the 2001 endurance events, but it has already been stipulated that Toyota would have to commit to a full season. "We don’t have a problem with that," said Evans. "Tony has been quite up-front about it and, I must say, we have been impressed with AVESCO in all our dealings with him." It would be likely that Toyota’s effort would be run by individual teams, following the example of Ford and Flolden’s involvement in the class. While there is likely to be a requirement of how many cars Toyota would race, Evans did say that the company would meet whatever commitment AVESCO required. It also seems likely that longtime Toyota rally man Neal Bates could run two cars from his Canberra base. - PHIL BRANAGAN

Hang an ta yanr

21 July 2000

■ A small correction to our 'Who's who in motorsport' table from last issue on page nine. Jeff Grech represents HRT on the TEG A board and not John Crennan as we reported. Crennan is an AVESCO board member. ■ Ted Musgrave has been named as the replacement driver for Chip Ganassi’s SABCO team following the tragic death of Kenny Irwin at New Hampshire a fortnight ago. Musgrave has been without a full-time ride since leaving Galaxy Motorsports last year. Earlier this season he filled in for the injured Geoff Bodine, the veteran escaping from an accident at Daytona considered far worse than Irwin's fatal one. ■ Greg Ray became the seventh different winner in seven races in the Indy Racing Northern Light Series at Atlanta over the weekend. The Menard driver led almost every lap to dominate the race. Buddy Lazier’s second place was good enough for him to regain the championship lead, while Al Unser Jr finished third. ■ The 2000 CART 'Super Sub' Memo Gidley will take the wheel of Della Penna Motorsport's ReynardToyota at Michigan this weekend. Regular driver Norberto Fontana is still recovering from injuries received in a crash in Japan and is still unfamiliar with super speedways so John Della Penna chose Gidley to drive.

MN: Your 2-litre Bathurst lap record still stands. That must give you some confidence. JP: I'm pleased that I've still got it. As : much as racing cars progress, and it ' moved on and the cars were quite a bit better in '98, it's good to have the record still. MN: Any reservations? H-pattern gearbox, big heavy car, rear-wheel drive; it's a lot to learn? JP: Those things . . . MEGA! Great fun! I can't wait!

■ Speaking of stats, Mark Skaife's fifth place in qualifying was his first non top three grid spot of the season. He last qualified outside the top trio at Winton last season. In other statistical news, John Faulkner is yet to qualify the Asia Online Commodore in the top 10 this season, while Tony Longhurst's 20th spot was his worst for the season in the Caltex car. Paul Radisich's 12th was his first time out of the top 10 all season as well.

One lucky (if that’s the right word) spectator will get the ride of a lifetime on Yamaha's YZR500 two seater at Phillip Island this October 27-29. Randy Mamola will chauffer the winner around the track at the Qantas Australian Grand Pri.x in the hike if first appearance outside Europe. Tickets are avail able from $60 from Ticketmaster 7 on 13 1641.

■ Staff room: While Alan Heaphy made his first appearance with the CAT team at Winton, Paul Romano had Tommy Smith working on his car, while Gerard Murphy, formerly of the Autopro team, has joined Toll Racing. 11

Nations Cup tech questions answered THE bunfight over eligibility in Nations Cup,as we reported last issue, has been resolved. Uncertainty over the legality of cars in a number of areas, mainly the manual gear shift used by Wayne Park’s Ross Palmer Motorsport-run Ferrari 360 Modena Challenge, led to Prancing Horse Racing protesting both the cars ofPark and Darren Palmer. The 360s come standard with an Fl-style semi-automatic gearbox with no clutch pedal and handoperated paddles behind the steering wheel. Prancing Horse protested the manual conversion in Park’s car, being of the opinion that nongenuine parts were used in the conversion. A CAMS hearing held late last week dismissed the protest against Park’s car, but excluded Palmer from the Queensland Raceway meeting ^d imposed a $500 fine for the use of a non-original radiator. "Floor-moimted manual gear selection systems on these cars are not being used anywhere in the world and it was our reading of the rules and understanding of the intent of the ‘spirit’ of the rules, that the standard semi-automatic system had to be retained," said Prancing Horse Racing MD Mark Coffey. Mark Noske’s car was booted from the race two results and also fined $500 for the same technical breach after Noske was involved in an incident with Peter Fitzgerald in the first race at QR. A protest by Prancing Horse against Jim Richards’Porsche GT3 was dismissed. The hearings have now clarified some grey areas of the new series which has flourished with additional cars and manufacturers since it began in Adelaide earlier in the year. In a statement to Motorsport News, RPM team manager Aaron Kelly said that,"Nations Cup is basically a parity-controlled formula to promote close and exciting racing. To keep such a wide array of vehicles as close as possible, recognition documents were drafted to alter the performance of each particular vehicle." -AARON NOONAN 12

Compound interest: Formula Holden is joining the trend to Yokohama control tyres.

(Photo by Dirk Ktynsmilh)

Yokos for FHolden YOKOHAMA'S push to extend its control tyre market share has continued, with the news that it has won the contract to suppiy Formula Holden for the next three years, commencing in 2001. Formula Holden Association president Malcolm Ramsay said that Yokohama offered the best commercial and logistic possibilities after a number of different brands were evaluated, subject to the tyres undergoing track testing in the upcoming months. "In the past we have dealt with motorsport tyre distributors and forging a relationship directly with a manufacturer offers a number of commercial and marketing advantages as we continue to grow the category," said Ramsay. "We believe a tyre corporation with the strength of Yokohama will deliver a greater level of promotion and awareness than the Formula has achieved in previous relationships with distributors." The category will use Yokohama's A005 racing slick

after using a control Dunlop tyre since 1998. Various team members have suggested that the introduction of the Yokohama will fast-forward tyre technology in the class. Testing will begin as soon as the championship finishes in late-August, with Arthur Abrahams' NRC team carrying out testing in Melbourne and Graham Watson's Ralt team carrying it out in Sydney. This gives the tyre a chance to be tested on a variety of circuits with different surfaces and corner profiles. The teams will run both new and old tyres and test for speed as well as durability before they are used in a racing situation. Yokohama adds Formula Holden to its control tyre portfolio, one which also includes Australian Super Touring, the Mitsubishi Mirage series, the Proton Rally Trophy as well as the recently-added Australian Formula 3. - AARON NOONAN

For Greenfield, read P

JOHN McLean has sold his interests in the Greenfileld Mowers Racing team to a group of people who will link with son and driver Cameron in an attempt to take the team to the next level. Jamey Blaikie is the new team manager of what is now known as Paragon Motorsport, which will retain Greenfield sponsorship and is in the process of moving to a new base in Strathpine on the north side of Brisbane. Other partners in the team are business manager Michael McMahon and Ross Dillon, who campaigns a HSV GTS in the GT-P series, which has been prepared by the Greenfield team during the season. “Cam has joined forces with some other guys and they ran the team at Winton. Theyil

look after the current Greenfield car and I’ve begun to build up a team with Rod Sahnon,” said McLean Senior. “We’re currently building an AU which will he ready for paint in the next week or two and we’ll put a couple of drivers in it for the endures.” The Salmon team is moving into the former Greenfield team premises in Banyo and will continue to run an EL Falcon for Salmon in V8 Lites. McLean said that Damien White will test in the upcoming weeks for the OneWorld team. McLean said also that his departure from the team was amicable and that Salmon was talking to potential sponsors for the new venture in addition to OneWorld, a hotel and sports bar chain which the latter owns. -AARON NOONAN

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Changing stripes: McLean will now be driving for pi' nioiorsaori news

@gars backs AVESCO

V8 SUPERCAR team owner and former TEGA and AVESCO board member Gany Rogers has raised his concerns over the recent legal action taken by CAMS against AVESCO in relation to the intellectual property rights to the V8 category. In a letter to CAMS CEO Peter Hansen, Rogers said that he was disappointed by CAMS actions and that the “debacle threatens to reduce the success of V8 Supercar racing and Australian motor sport in general.”" He also said that “CAMS,having tried numerous times to lift the profile ofthe sport... and failed ... has made a blatant grab for control ofthe category now that it is the established bread winner in Australian motorsport.” “It would be a huge disappointment, commercially insane, and a backward step for Australian motor sport in general if they(AVESCO)were not given the opportunity to continue to develop the category and advance the sport to its full extent. “It seems hypocritical that having been involved in the process that decided a separate ent% was needed to promote V8 Supercar ^ racing that CAMS is now ready to step in and take over once the initial hard work and investment

aragon

has been shouldered by a different group.” Rogers went on to say that “It is my view that SEL is only after a decent commerical retmri for their efforts and energies and in doing so have directly influenced the promotional success of V8 Supercars. “It is an enormous concern that CAMS should commit to wasting the member’s funds on very expensive litigation for the purpose of political pointscoring. “I urge you to put . the point scoring aside and realize the outstanding record of AVESCO and do what CAMS should do, create an environment where people with the credentials, the enthusiasm and the capacity for risk taking can apply their skills to promote motorsport as a vital component of the whole of the sports and entertainment market in Australia.”

n Diane Holl, former engineer at Tasman Motorsports, as left Della Penna Motorsport and joined Target Ganassi in research and development. n Mexmil has signed an additional three year sponsorship deal with Dick Simon's IRNLS team. The team has also re-signed driver Frenchman Stephan Gregoire for the same period of time as well.

Making his point; Rogers (right, with AVESCO’s Wayne Cattach) says CAMS is not doing the right thing with its law suit against AVESCO. (Photo by Slipstream Photographic)

(Photo John Morris/Mpix)

21 July 2000

n Reports in the German press suggest that EM.TV, Bernie Ecclestone's partner in Formula One Holdings, is to market team merchandise for six FI teams next year, including Ferrari, McLarenMercedes, Jordan, BMW-Williams, Benetton and Jaguar. Next year EM.TV will run a series of merchandising stands at individual races selling official merchandise. n On Saturday night in Austria as the locals were rehearsing for the pre-race festivities on Sunday, a rather unusual conga line formed up and danced around the paddock and through the Ferrari garage while a local brass band was playing a catchy tune. The dancers included Ron Dennis, Bernie Ecclestone, Flavio Briatore and llmor's Mario lllien...

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MOTOROLA

ragon Motorsport.

n One more time: OK, so which Formula Holden driver was spotted with a Brittney Spears CD in the passenger's seat of his car just before the Winton round? Let's just say he could have bought it from his sponsor's store... n Missing from the regular Formula Holden line-up at Winton on the weekend were Chris Staff and Andy Booth. Funds for both had dried up and placed them on the sidelines, leaving the Bait and Hocking teams to run one car each. Booth instead played track commentator for the weekend on the PA.

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J ASON RichaFds and Angus Fogg have been nanied as the two drivers who will carry the recently-announced Teanii Kiwi's silver and bladk colours onto Mount Panorama in November. Richards and Fogg’s spots in the team were confirmed by owner David John at a launch for the team in Auckland on July 10 - the team making its Shell Series debut at Bathurst before launching a full-on, two car assault on the series next year. “Originally we gave four drivers the opportunity to test for places

NEWS

with the team, but only two were ; able to give the commitment required,” John said. i “We’ve gone with those two | committed drivers in the interests of settling the team early so that we can get on with the job of preparing for Bathurst and the 200t Shell Series." | The first of the two ex-Castrol | Perkins VT Commodores that the i team has purchased, Larry Perkins' current car, leaves for Auckland next Monday. The team will use the first car i for promotional purposes in New ; Zealand prior to Bathurst.

n The Eif oil company has a long history of involvement in motor racing, dating back to the 1960s. It is worth noting, therefore, that an investigation in France has revealed that the company spent US$60m a year on bribes in the early 1990s. The allegations could lead to France's biggest ever scandal as former Elf employee Andre Tarallo is threatening to reveal who received the money. The list is believed to include a number of people with close connections with former French president Francois Mitterand. n We hear that Williams FI has sold one of its latest Williams-BMW FW22 chassis to Michelin to be used in the company's tyre development programme,- which is expected to accelerate.

Will Jacques stay, or go? Will Panis replace Jacques at BAR?

by JOE SAWARD

THERE was considerable speculation at the Austrian Grand Prix which suggested that Jacques Villeneuve may decide to say at British American Racing next year rather than take up an offer to join Benetton in 2001 and then lead the new Renault Formula 1 team in 2002. There is no doubt that the Benetton offer is a lot more attractive financially to Villeneuve in the short term, with the French company rumoured to be offering US$16m while BAR does not want to pay more than US$8m. There is no doubt, however, that Villeneuve owns some of the shares in BAR and stands to gain more money if the team becomes successful and is then sold. The problem is that Honda has decided to supply its factory engines to Jordan in addition to BAR because of the team’s poor performance to date and although tlungs are improving, there is still a long way to go.If Villeneuve leaves the team,the value ofthe operation will plunge as there are no obvious top drivers available. Rumours in Austria suggested that Giancarlo Fisichella could join BAR if Villeneuve goes. Fisichella is also understood to have an offer from Jaguar. Villeneuve is expected to make a decision within the next few days and once his future is known the market is expected to move very quickly.

OLIVIER Panis had talks with Arrows during the Austrian GP weekend. Panis is currently McLaren's third driver but Olivier has made it clear that he hopes to return to racing next year. While Olivier has a chance with British American Racing, his other opportunities are limited until the future of Do I stay or do I go? Speculation is rife about Villeneuve’s future. (Photo courtesy of Honda)

teams at the tail of the grid are sorted out. -JOE SAWARD

The end of the IVIarlboro man... TOBACCO has been the biggest supporter of motor racing since the late 1960s but the pressure on cigarette companies continues with another huge award of damages last week in a Miami court.

Come to where the flavour is: How long will tobacco sponsorship continue? (Photo by Sutton-lmages)

Ajury decided that the tobacco companies should pay US$145 billion in punitive damages in what is known as ‘a class action’ brought by thousands ofindividuals suffering from smoking-related illnesses. This comes on top of settlements with each individual state government in the United States which amounts to US$246 billion over 25 years. In addition there have been other individual cases including a 1999 case which resulted in Philip Morris (parent company of Marlboro) paying US$57m in damages to an individual. Several other governments have also filed suits in the US seeking the recovery of healthcare costs. These include Bolivia, Guatemala, Nicaragua and Venezuala. Companies are making big profits but these will be eaten up by the damages payments and investors are becoming increasingly disenchanted with tobacco stocks - this naturally means less and less money will be available for sponsorships in future. The FIAhas agreed to ban all tobacco sponsorship in motor racing by October 2006 but it may not be necessary as tobacco companies may have disappeared from FI by then. - JOE SAWARD

MANNIE FOLD: THE ULTIMATE TRACKSIDE FAN-BOY

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News

Jordan

Frentzen stays GERMAN Heinz-Harald Frentzen is expected to re-sign for Jordan for 2001 and 2002. The team already has a contract for 2001 with Jarno Trulli, Frentzen joined the team on a twoyear deal at the start of 1999 and has done well, winning last year’s French'Grand Prix and finishing third in the World Championship. This year has been more of a struggle but the promise of factory Honda engines next year and Benson & Hedges’s desire to have a German driver means that Heinz-Harald is expected to stay with a salary of around US$4m a year. Frentzen has received offers to race elsewhere

but the current state of competitiveness in FI means that Jordan is the best choice available, as McLaren and Ferrari are already full for next season. Teams which are likely to be challenging Jordan next year are Williams-BMW and, possibly, Jaguar Racing. Williams already has too many drivers and Heinz-Harald had a bad experience with the team in 1997 and 1998. The choice of Jaguar was a risky one as the team needs another couple of / 'seasons of rebuilding and restructuring before it *' will begin to become competitive. - JOE SAWARD

> ,. Just sign on the dotted line: A Jordan engineer discusses setup with Heinz-Harald Frentzen in Austria last weekend.

...while Holloway takes key role from Gascoyne INDY FIA PACKAGE

(Photo by Sutlon-lmages)

JORDAN technical director Mike Gascoyne is expected to sit out the rest of this season on ‘gardening leave’ before he takes up his next appointment as the new technical director of Benetton. Gascoyne was due to stay on at Jordan until the end of his contract in July 2001 but it was always thought unlikely that this arrangement would work and the team has now decided to hand control of the design of the EJll to chief engineer Tim Holloway. A former rocket scientist with the Ministry of Defence, Holloway joined March Engineering in 1975 starting as a toolmaker and working his way up through the design departments to become a track engineer in Formula 2 in the mid 1980s. By 1987 he had become director of engineering with the March FI team in 1987. The team was then taken over by the Leyton House company from Japan and Holloway eventually left and went on to become a partner in an independent design company called Fomet 1, designing a Formula 1 car for the Fondmetal FI team. That deal lasted only one year and then the company became Lan-ousse UK Ltd and designed the Lan'ousse LC92. The relationship with Lanwsse continued until the end of 1994 after which Holloway joined the Jordan team. Holloway will oversee the design of the new car, working with mechanical designers Mark Smith and John McQuilliam, aerodynamicist John Iley and the head of reseai’ch and development Bob Bell. -JOESAWARD

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Fastlane home to Perth: Simon Wheeler has withdrawn from the FF series, as too has Stuart Kostera. (Photo by Slipstream Photographies)

Troubles hit FF hopefuls Fastlane down to Just one car, while Kelly withdraws too,,, by AARON NOONAN

THE Fastlane Racing Fommla Ford team will run just the one car in the final two championship rounds. West Aussie Simon Wheeler has pulled out in addition to Stuart Kostera for financial reasons and to devote more time to the family business in Perth. “When you’re running 12th you may as well save your

Heaphy joins CAT

money and do something else,” said Wheeler,

Wheeler also said he was unlikely to return to Formula Ford next season. Kostera puEed the pin straight after the Queensland Raceway round due to budget constraints and a lack of results, and, with Wheeler withdrawing as weE,leaves Leanne Ferrier as the sole focus of the Fastlane team at Oran Park, Calder and Mallala in August. There was talk that Chris DeE would take over the Kostera chassis, but the New South Welshman has elected to stick with his own Stealth. Ferrier currently Ees second in the FF series, two points behind Luke Youlden. 16

THERE will be a one-make race at the Honda Indy 300 this year. Ten of the best young drivers in Australia and New Zealand will be invited to participate in the race in identical Honda Integras. The drivers, who will be selected by a panel made up of Honda Indy race officials and media experts, will practice and qualify prior to the Sunday race. Among the list of drivers from which the 10 will be chosen are current Formula Ford hot shots James Courtney and Leanne Ferrier, Formula Holden stars Simon Wills and Christian Murchison, current Indy Lights championship leader Scott Dixon and 250cc GP ace Ant West. An announcement of the final list of drivers is expected to be made next month. Also in the support bill for the race will be races for the new Saloon Car category. The Commodore VP/Falcon EA class appeared as a demonstation class last season and will have at least two races during the weekend.

Taken its Toll: Owen Kelly has also made a tough decision. (Photo by Marshall Cass)

FORMER HRT Young Lion, Owen Kelly has also withdrawn fi'om the remainder of the Formula Ford series, the Tasmanian citing budget shortfaE as the reason behind his departure. ‘T’m not complaining about not having sponsors - we set ourselves a target and we’ve come up short and that’s it,” Owen said last week. “Our aim has always been to run a responsible motor sport program and,if the funds weren’t there, then we wouldn’t extend ourselves beyond our means.” Owen said his round win at Phillip Island was an excellent pointer to how strong his team could run and he is a little disappointed he couldn’t continue. “We’ll still be looking for sponsors and, as Phillip Island proves vrith around five full minutes of national television coverage, we are a team that is capable of providing a company with an extremely effective program if that’s their desire,” Kelly cuiTently lies seventh in the series, the Tasmanian having been in fifth before a disasterous Queensland round three weeks ago. - GERALD McDORNAN

ALAN Heaphy is the new team manager at CAT Racing. The former Gibson, Wayne Gai-dner Racing, Wynns and Romano team chief appeared in yeUow and black at Winton last weekend. He takes over the role from Alan Draper, who will now concentrate his efforts on engine development. “I think that this team has enormous potential and I am thrilled with the opportunity John Briggs has given me,” said Heaphy. The team is expected to start work on a new car shortly but is expected to race the current #600 car until the end of the season. ALSO changing colours in Lee Geyer. The Queenslander is now engineering Steve Ellery’s Supercheap Falcon after having stints with Tony Longhurst and DJR. Geyer started with his new team at Queensland Raceway earlier this month. moiorsnort news

I iJ

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NEWS

CART invades Europe

Oval races at Lausitzring and Rockingham on FedEx 2001 schedule

cart’s long-nunoiired, and push-for expansion into Europe was confirmed this week with the announcement of two new rounds - one in Germany and one in England for 2001. Newly-appointed CART CEO Bobby Rahal announced the series would run backrto-back events at the Lausitzring in Germany on September 16 and Rockingham in England on September 22 next year. It was reported as little as one month ago that the series would, in fact, run just one round in Europe - many behind the scenes suggesting this may have been another reason for former CEO Andrew Craig’s departure from CART. With both venues, which are both in the final stages of construction, using oval tracks, the move into Emope by CART will satisfy the Formula 1 hierarchy, which didn’t want a ‘similar’ open wheel series cutting into its fan base - the German round still taking place on the same day as the Italian GR “We’ve always had an agreement with the FIA that we . would run on ovals overseas, although situations in Australia at ● Surfer’s Paradise kept that from happening,” Rahal said. “For us to be successful here we have to celebrate the differences of

oval track racing. We need to show our sport in a different light and if we do that I think the fans will enjoy it.” Eight of the proposed 22 events on the CART calendar in 2001 will take place outside the US, with two events in Canada, two in Europe and one each in Australia, Rio, Japan and Mexico. 900 horsepower brokers: Rahal announces the Rockingham, England round in London this week. (Photo by Sutton-lmages)

While FI might go to Balip too

THE next generation of Formula 1 racing circuits are already in the planning stages and we hear that there are three new projects under consideration at the moment. The one which is most likely to happen is on the island of Bali in '■ Indonesia. Our sources say that the local government has agreed to finance the circuit-and that a parcel of land has already been set aside for the facility. The exact location is unclear but it is believed to be not far from Denpasar airport. Tourism in Bali was allowed to run riot in the early days but in

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recent years the locals have begun to introduce careful zoning to avoid the destruction of the local culture by indiscriminate development. Indonesia previously built a Formula 1 standard circuit at SentuI, to the south of Jakarta. The track, which was closely associated with the Suharto family, was opened in 1993"and was included on provisional World Championship calendars in 1995/'96, although it never took place. At Monaco recently there were a number of high-ranking members of the Indonesian

government president, including the Minister of Sport. There are already welladvanced plans for F3000 driver Ananda Mikola to graduate into FI.

Details about the FI projects in Greece and Croatia are less clear, but we hear that a site near Athens is being considered. Bernie Ecclestone visited Croatia last week and there were a number.of Croatian businessmen present at the Austrian GP. There has been talk of a Croatian track since 1997. - JOE SAWARD

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Andretti owns Can

Mikey's 40th career win moves him to third on ali-time Champ Car winner's list

MICHAEL Andretti owns Toronto. Combining patience with grit and determination, 37-year-old Andretti took his sixth victory in Toronto at the Molson Indy around the streets of Exhibition Place. It was also the 40th Champ Car win for Andretti in 260 starts. Adrian Fernandez, Paul Tracy, Cristiano da Matta,Alex Tagaliani, and Gil de Ferran completed the top six, chasing Andretti to the finish. Andretti drove a near perfect race as he patiently stalked Helio Castroneves and da Matta as they diced for the lead. Castroneves eventually fell out of the running with an exhaust problem and that left da Matta between Andretti and victory. The veteran American dogged the Brazilian for some 73 laps, always pushing in the hope that the young driver would make a mistake. But da Matta held the line and kept the lead. Andretti finally caught him in the pits only to find himself resuming behind Fernandez follo.wing the Mexican’s second pit stop. “It was a little touchy going into turn three a couple times with Adrian," said Andretti. “I had a run on him and he was in front of me and I knew I had to take advantage of his cold tyres otherwise it was going to be really difficult. “We went in there side-by-side and I came out in front, and that was it. The rest of the race was just try and not make a mistake.” Fernandez held onto second, finishing 6.527s down at the finish. “I guess I got the patience as I got older.” said Andretti. “There were a few moves that I would have tried a few years ago. Now,I say ‘Ahhhh, I don’t think so’ and I wait. Today,that patience paid off. Although he would have preferred a victory to second, Fernandez was pleased. “It was a good race - we started ninth and gained two positions with Montoya and Franchitti getting together. After that, I made a great restart and the rest of the day went smoothly.” The victory closes Andretti to within two points of current points leader, Roberto Moreno, while in the history books Andretti moves 18

Mario’s son: Andretti won his sixth Toronto race, which was also the 40th of his career. He now ranks third behind AJ Foyt and his father, Mario, on the all-time winner’s list, into third place on the all-time Champ Car victory list behind AJ Foyt(67) and father Mario Andretti (52). Second-place Fernandez had his hands full during the race as he ran wheel-to-wheel for three corners with Oriol Servia, who challenged at the end of the long back straight. “We had a big moment down there but, luckily, he gave room,” said Fernandez of a close call with Servia. One corner later, Servia’s car was in the barriers, the Spaniard dropping four laps off the pace and finishing in 11th. Tracy, wearing the late Greg Moore’s helmet design as a tribute to his fnend, drove a solid racje, finishing third after starting bac in 12th position on the grid. “I think what makes me most^ happy is to be able to wear Gregs helmet in the race,” Tracy remarked. “It made a lot of drivers fee) good. I want to thank Greg's father Rick for allowing me to do that. It was a tremendous honour for me.” Although he remains in the

championship lead, Moreno failed to add to his points. He ran well, moving up from his 16th starting position into the top five before a gearbox problem ended his day. He was classified 13th and just out of the points. Pole-sitter Castroneves lost the lead to da Matta on the first lap, but he stayed up there until a problem with the header on his car put him out of the race and classified 16th. Castroneves was part of a first-

Results Lw: PHI IIIHCH

1 2 3 4 5 0 7 8 9 10

CRH

lap incident that took Dario Franchitti and Juan Montoya out of the race, da Matta, who led 73 of the 112 lap race, fell off the pace thanks to an oversteer and finished in fourth place. The next stop for the FedEx Championship Series is this weekend at Michigan (July 23), the first of two 500 mile races this season. Points: Moreno 90,Andretti 88, de Ferran 75, Tracy 73.

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Michael Androtti 112 Big Kmart-Texaco Lola/Ford Adrian Fornandoz 112 Tecate-Quaker St Reynard/Ford 112. Paul Tracy KOOl Reynard/Honda Cristiano Oa Matta 112 Pioneer-MCl WorldCom RoynardAoyoto 112 Alexandre Tagliani Player's-liidack Reynard/Ford Gil Do Ferran 112 Marlboro Reynard/Honda 112. Patrick Carpentier Player's-Indeck Reynard/Ford 112 Max Papis Miller Lite Reynard/Ford 112 Jimmy Vasser Target LolaToyota 112 Kenny Brack Shell Reynard/Ford Time Of Race- 2:00:02 313 Average Speed- 98.248 Mph Cautions: too for o total of fivo laps

FedEx Series Rd 10 Toronto, Canada moiorsaort news

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A classic gull-wing, er, Opel? Winkelhock’s Sport Bild Opel won the first race at Norisring - the third win of the season for the GM factory team. Wink, Wink, Lud, Lud, say no more: Schneider dominated the second race, bringing his Mercedes home 14.8s in front of Winkelhock’s Opel.

One Each

(Photos by Sutton-lmages)

Opel and Mercedes split Norisring DTM races MERCEDES and Opel made it one win apiece when the German D'TM series took to the Norisring on July 11, Opel’s Jo Winkelhock winning the first race and Mercedes-Benz stalwart Bemd Schneider the second. Winkelhock delivered Opel’s third win of the season when he overcame a strong challenge from Marcel Tiemann to take victory. The former BTCC champion, who started from pole position, led away at the start but was taken by Tiemann on the run into the first hairpin at the start of the third lap. But despite losing nearly a second to the leader, Winkelhock was soon back on the'pace and in a daring move on lap eight he dived inside Tiemann on the run out of the last corner. The move forced Tiemann onto a damp patch of the track and, after skidding sideways and nearly losing control, he had to concede the position. As Winkelhock began extending his advantage by around three tenths of a second per lap, Tiemann then found himself under 21 July 2000

pressure from Mercedes team mate Klaus Ludwig. Ludwig snuck through on the 15th lap at the first hairpin and Tiemann slipped back into the clutches of Manuel Reuter, who was putting on an impressive charge and had moved past Schneider for fourth on lap 16. Reuter made his decisive move for third at the first hairpin on lap 19 and he was soon right on the back of Ludwig, who was struggling vrith his brakes. On lap 25, Ludwig braked late at the chicane and lost momentum, which gave Reuter a run on him into the final hairpin. But as the pair braked late, it was Reuter who came off worse as he spun the car and dropped to fifth spot. That became fourth on lap 29 when Tiemann spun at the second hairpin under pressm’e from Opel’s Eric Helary, who was trying to unlap himself As Winkelhock motored on untroubled to victory, Reuter was pushing hard through the field. He closed the gap on third placed Schneider and when his

championship rival ran wide at the hairpin on lap 39, Reuter was through to third. Despite his best efforts, however, he could do nothing to get past Ludwig, who was putting in his best performance since coming out of retirement. Michael Bartels put in an impressive drive to claim fifth place, having started the race from 14th, while 'Tiemann eventually finished sixth. SCHNEIDER made the most of a wet and drying track in the second race to take Jiis third victory of the season. Having passed Ludwig, who ran wide at the first hairpin on lap two, it seemed there was little Schneider could do to close the gap to Winkelhock. However, a drying line appeared and the Benz driver dived into the pits on lap 11 for slick tyres. Despite resuming well down the order, it was a gamble that paid off with the veteran’s ‘silver arrow’ storming through the field.

After his rivals had pitted, Schneider had the advantage and led Ludwig. Ludwig couldn’t keep up the pace and quickly fell into the grasp of Winkelhock, who himself was being pushed by Reuter. Soon the trio were nose-to-tail and on lap 34 the order changed when Winkelhock ran wide and Reuter passed. On lap 39, having speared out wide two laps previously, Reuter finally got his move on Ludwig right and moved into second - that being where he stayed imtil the finish, some 14.8s behind Schneider. Ludwig finished in third, a further .9s adrift at the chequered. Winkelhock eventually settled for fourth position, with Michael Bai-tels fifth and Uwe Alzen sixth. Peter Dumbreck, who had started on slicks and looked poised for an excellent result, collided with Timo Scheider on lap nine before spinning on lap 16. He recovered to finish ninth. Darren Turner

finished 12th.

Ex;perien.Ged eampaigner: Having pitted early for slicks, Schneider made the most of the drying line, then dry track, pulling out a

Ijjmmanding lead.

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Dark Alley: Tarquini pushes Lemmer into Neal at the chicane by

THE battle between GeneralMotors and Ford isn’t just in Australia as Vauxhall and Ford slug it out in the British Touring Car Championship, the honours even in the latest rounds at Snetterton. The Bathurst-bound Jason Plato took round 15 at dusk for Vauxhall, while former Renault team-mate, and now Ford’s head man,Alain Menu, won round 16 under flood lights. “We’ve been knocking on the door for a little while but for one reason or another we haven’t quite got it right in the races, especially in the last couple of race weekends,” said Plato. “We’ve had a bit of bad luck and some shunts and this win will boost the morale of the team. Everyone has worked really hard in the last couple of weeks to get the cars right after the incidents at Croft and it is great to repay that hard work with a victory. “It also shows the guys in the team that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and the championship is not lost.” Plato burst away from pole position in the sprint race and controlled the race without losing the lead. His lead was pegged back

twice by the chasing pack when the Safety Car was delpoyed to clear the circuit of crashed cars, but‘JP’stormed into the darkening distance to win. James Thompson caused the first Safety Car period when his Honda clashed with Anthony Reid (Ford Mondeo)towards the end of the first lap. Thompson speared off the circuit, into a tyre wall, and out of the race, while Reid managed to continue in fifth place. The second SC appearance was for Plato’s team mates Yvan Muller and Vincent Radmermecker, who clashed with Menu. All three were put out of the race by the incident as the pack bunched up through Sear comer. That left Tom Kristensen (Honda)and Rickard Rydell(Ford) to chase but they slowed one another, allowing Plato to cruise away and take a 1.6s victory. Reid was fourth ahead of top Independent Matt Neal and Gabriele Tarquini. For the feature race the lights came on and the sun was gone. The rain came as well ... The rain began falling on the first of two warm-up laps, so everybody ducked into the pits to change to wets, which delayed the

start of the race. Then the start lights failed, causing another delay, the race cut to 20 laps to fit inside a 1pm curfew. Pole man Rydell wheelspun his way from the line, allowing Menu to seize control. Plato chased hard in second but couldn’t bridge the gap and when the compulsory pit stops came, elected to pit a lap before Menu and attempt to get the jump on the Ford when it eventually pitted. He didn’t. The Mondeo came out in front again and built a six second margin. But that wasn’t all. Plato dug deep, and, with a double victory within sight, halved the gap and then sliced it to just one second starting the last lap. He failed by just 0.4s, with Thompson behind in third ahead of Muller, who passed Reid and Rydell thanks to some quick pit work from the Vauxhall team and was using Radermecker’s car, his own too badly banged up to be fixed in time for the race. Rydell and Reid were fifth and sixth with Tarquini seventh and Neal eighth. “I had a good enough start but I think Rickard messed up his completely,” said Menu.

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The car was very good and I pulled away. With hindsight we should have waited a bit longer before we pitted, because after the pit-stop the balance of the car changed a bit and it was not quite as good. “But I knew how much Jason was catching me each lap and it was fairly easy to control the pace so I did just enough to win the race.” Plato said he “couldn’t live with Alain in the first part of the race so I found a pace where I wouldn’t make any mistakes and just waited to see if the speed in my car came back to me, which it did after the pit-stop.” Ford continues to hold a 1-2-3 stranglehold on the series, although Vauxhall with Muller and Plato are still poised to strike should anything go wrong. The BTCC is regularly attracting 15 cars, four or five usually Class B cars, but the racing for the championship, thanks partially from the success ballast i-ules imposed at the beginning of the year, means the championship at the front is still extemely tight. Points: Menu 144, Kydell 134, Reid 130, Muller 116, Plato 113, Kristensen 91, Tarqiuni 89, Thompson 72, Neal 70,

moiorsport news

F3000

Minassian doubles up

Webber back on track with strong fourth after leading early while Bruno Junqueira struggles. JOE SAWARD reports... NICHOLAS Minassian won his second consecutive victory for the Super Nova team and is now equal on points with Bruno Junqueira. The Formula 3000 Championship is going to be fought out by the two men and right now Minassian is the man on form. A wet and drying qualifying meant that the grid was rather odd with Jeffrey Van Hoeydonlds Witmeur Ifeam KTR entry on pole position. The Belgian was the last man to complete the last lap ofthe session and there was a strong feeling that in a dry session he would not be there. Alongside Van Hooydonk was rival Belgian driver David Saelens (SuperNova) with Mark Webber third quickest in his European Arrows entry. Minassian(SuperNova) was fourth ahead of Jaime Melo (Petrobras Junior Tteam)and Christjian Albers(European Arrows). Also looking good was seventh-placed Darren Manning (Arden Tham Russia). There had been a couple of changes in the entiy since MagnyCours with Tomas Scheckter being drafted into McLaren’s junior mysap.com team in place ofthe disappointing Stephane Sarrazin, and Marc Goossens being recalled by Team Astromega to replace the accident prone Fabrice Walfisch. Goossens qualified 14th, Scheckter 19th. Junqueira was the big disaster in qualifying, lining up 20th on the grid. There was a strong suspicion that the two Belgians on the front row would somehow manage to make a mess of it at the start but they surprised everyone by doing it even before the race began. Van Hooydonk jumped the start and Saelens went with him. Behind

these two Webber made a legal start to head Minassian into the first comer. For a moment Webber looked to be in a good position but by the end of the first lap it was clear that the European Arrows car was a real handful. “We lowered the tyre pressm-es' on the grid because ofthe heat and the car was lacking grip for the first few laps,” Webber explained. “There were people going past me left and The Cold War: Despite being right.” clearly quicker, Webber couldn’t The first to go was Minassian at pass Manning in the closing stages. the start ofthe secondlap, but he was quickly followed by Manning, To the victor, the spoils: Minassian Sebastian Bourdais(Gauloises celebrates his second victory. Formula),Albers and Justin Wilson (Photos by Sutton-lmages) (Nordic Racing). The early laps witnessed the and went wide at the second comer expected incidents with Franck and found himself behind Wilson. Montagny(DAMS)running into Wilson made a rather better job of Ibmas Enge(mysap.com)and passing Manning and set off after Enrique Bemoldi(Red Bull Jimior Minassian. Ibam). There was further troublefor Behind Bourdais,Albers allowed mysap.com when Scheckter was hit team mate Webber to go ahead on from behind and spun and had to pit lap 12 but further aroimd the lap for lengthy suspension repairs. the Dutchman was pimted from On the fourth lap there was behind by Andre Couto(Gauloises another incident when Soheil Ayari Formula)and the pair both spun (Coloni) and Melo tangled while off. This resulted in a Safety Car fighting for 10th, resulitng in Ayari being despatched. having a huge spin. After three laps the race was The expected penalties for restarted and immediately Wilson Saelens and Van Hooydonk had challenged Minassian for the lead. been dehvered and both pitted at The Frenchman held off the attack the end of the fifth lap, dropping while fourth-placed Bordais made a them back to 19th and 18th mistake and Webber was back to respectively. Saelens then began a fourth. series of adventures which ended Bourdais’s fyres were gone and with retirement in a gravel trap he dropped quickly back,leaving after 35 laps. Melo and Fernando Alonso (Tfeam With the two frontrunners out of Astromega)closing on the the way, Minassian took the lead Austrahan, while behind them Bas from Manning and Bourdais while Leinders(Kid Jenson Racing)tried Wilson moved ahead ofAlbers on to hold off Jimqeira. The Brazilian the eighth lap. Boiurdais now looked went ahead on lap 23. threatening and on the 12th lap he The pattern then settled down challenged Manning for second. until an accident in the closing Manning held his ground and the stages when Ayari collided vidth Frenchman ended up on the grass

Andrea Piccini(Kid Jenson Racing) while battling for 15th and the Safety Car was sent out again. The leaders were all together as the race was restarted with five laps to go. In the scramble which followed, Junqueira passed both Melo and Alonso, but he then made a mistake and Alonso moved back to sixth. The closing laps were marked by an exciting battle for third as Webber tried to pass Manning. Webber was clearly quicker but Manning did a good job to hold him off by two-tenths of a second. Minassian and Jimqueira now share the championship lead, each having scored 38 points, while Webber remains third, having increased his tally to 17.

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Party time for Valentino

THE colourful and excitable Valentino Rossi became the first ever rider to have won the British Grand Prix in the 125, 250 and 500cc categories when the 21-year-old won in the wet at Bonington Park on July 9. Rossi took victory aboard his Nastro Azzurro NRC Honda after a superb three-way battle with championship leader Kenny Roberts and 36-year-old Jeremy McWilliams-the Irishman dedicating his third place finish aboard the Apriha to fellow countiyman Joey Dunlop who was killed the previous week. Rossi led Roberts across the line by just 0.395s with Williams less than one second further behind, all three riders having difficulties with their choice of wet weather tyres on which they started the race after the track dried towards the end of the 30 laps. “It was difficult towards the end for all three of us because of the tyres, but once I got past Jeremy, which was very hard, I just tried to pull away and not fall off,” an elated Rossi said. “I made a bad start but soon closed but then got involved in the big battle. It’s a special moment to win my first’ 500cc race.” Roberts, who led the early stages of the race aboard his Telefonica Movistar Suzuki, regained second on the podium from McWilliams just two comers from home -the American extending his lead in the championship to 29 points with rival Carlos Checa finishing a disappointing 11th on his Marlboro Yamaha. It looked as though McWiUiams, riding with two broken bones in his left foot, might hold on for his first 500cc victory - and the first by a Brit at the British Grand Prix - having led for a long period on the twin-cylinder Aprilia. But Rossi and Roberts eventually tracked McWilliams down and he had to settle for his second podium of the season. Australian Anthony Gobert, making his return to the 500 class for the first time this season aboard Kenny Roberts Sr’s KR3 Modenas,finished in the points, coming home a creditable 15th. Points: Roberts 145, Checa 116, Capirossi 102,Abe 101,Eossi 92

Youichi Ui backed up his win in the rain-affected Dutch TT with another win aboard his Derbi in the 125ce British Grand Prix,leading home Emilio Alzamora.

Nailbiter 1: Rossi led home Roberts and a gallant McWilliams for his first SOOcc win. {Photo by RoOiArcGBM

(Wwto by RocgAccess^

Ralf’s thriller RALF Waldmann took an incredible victory in the 250cc race when the German passed long-time leader Olivier Jacque in the last comer of the 27-lap, rainaffected race. Most riders had gambled on intermediate-rear and wet-front t3rres for the race while Waldmann went for the fiiQ wet set and, while he may have struggled early, when the rains finally came Waldmann stormed through the field to take victory. Going into the last lap, Waldmaim’s Aprilia was still some seven seconds behind Jacque’s Chesterfield Tech 3 Yamaha but, coming into the last left-hand bend, he had Jacque in his sights, diving down the inside to secure a memorable victory. Naoki Matsudo also fitted full wets to his Petronas Sprinta Team TV Yamaha and finished third, while championship leader Shinya Nakano, who crashed in the warm-up,lost his championship lead to team-mate Jacque after finishing a disappointing seventh. Shell Advance Honda’s Tohru Ukawa finished fourth while Aussie teammate Ant West crashed out.

Ducati GP-bound? Italians eye 2002 for debut offour-cylinder, four-stroke GP bike by DARRYL FLACK DUCATI could be racing in Grand Prix by 2002, according to insiders. Sources close to the Ducati Superbike camp are reporting that the Italian manufacturer have already held talks with GP organizers DORNA and it is possible, when the Grand Prix rules are changed to allow four-

stroke machines up to lOCiOcc to race against the twostrokes, Ducati woOl make the move. While the sources were quick to point out that any Grand Prix involvement wouldn't necessarily mean the end of the factory's Superbike involvement,they did say that Ducati would want to be "in on the ground floor" of the two current separate series GPs and Superbikes- merged

together to create one true World Championship. While trying to move the attention back on to the factory's Superbike camp, Ducati's Pierro Guido recently said: "1 am not aware of any four-cylinder project. Ducati is very committed to the Vtwin engine. Of course, Ducati is very, very much interested with the fourtr stroke idea in Grand Prix. moiortport news

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BIKMS

Corser closes at Laguna

TROY Corser(Axo Aprilia Racing)edged closer to the Superbike World Championship after scoring a 3-1 finish at Laguna Seca on July 9. The 28-year-old Aussie, right, made up for a lack of grunt with a highly tactical display that saw him resort to some aggressive passing manoeuvres in the final stages of both races to move within 18 points of title favourite Colin Edwards (Castrol Honda). “The first race was the hardest I’ve ridden the bike all year,” said Corser. “It was really tough out there and we’re still just a httle short on acceleration out of the turns. “I thought about passing Ben [Bostrom] about four laps from the end, but I knew he’d only repass me,so I waited until the end. I made my going into the last turn and pushed him wide as he tried to get past me again. “We both went out to the paint, , but he couldn’t get the drive and I managed to out-drag him to the fine. “In race two, I conserved my tyres because I knew it was going to be tough at the end. I made my move into the lead on lap 17. Once I was in the lead I could nm my own lines and keep up good corner‘d speeds and that is what I need to do to be able to win races.”

Noriyuki Haga(Yamaha) claimed the first race after dealing first with Edwards and Bostrom (NCR Ducati), and later finished over seven seconds behind Corser in race two. Bostrom rose to the occasion on his home track, but fell victim to Corser’s aggression in race one to finish fourth before he outbraked himself to claim third in race two. Laguna was a bitter disappointment for pole-sitter Ti'oy Bayliss (Infostrada Ducati). The 31-year-old Aussie crashed out of the first race, then claimed a distant seventh in race two, his worst finish since taking over from the injured Carl Fogarty at Monza. “I had a few problems with the front of the bike and I had to deal with these problems'^all weekend,”

Bayliss explained. “I had to use a different set-up to the one I normally use, and maybe I was penalised by that. We have learnt a lot from this experience.” Championship leader Edwards has not won a race since Monza, and kept the record intact at his bogey track with a 2-4 finish. “Second place is not what I wanted but I’ll take it,” said Edwards. “I’ve lost a bit of ground in the championship but it’s not a worry.” The other Aussie, Peter Goddard (Fuchs Kawasaki), had a disappointing day after qualifying 11th. The 36-year-old Aussie struggled with suspension problems in race one, and was lapped on the way to a distant 16th before a 10th in race two. -DARRYE FLACK

Too Foggy to seo cloarly 1

NEVER one to underestimate himself, Carl Fogarty has handed his former team mate, Troy Corser, a nice little slap in the face, not even rating the Aussie as a good rider in a recent interview. While being questioned about the current state of the SBK Superbike series, Fogarty, who was injured at the Phillip Island round of the series in April, failed to even mention Corsgr - the 1996 world champion!- while also saying there is no depth amongst the cuiTent crop of riders. “The series now looks bad,I l don’t know if I it just looks that way to me because I am not in it but, when I sat there and watched Monza I just thought;‘Bloody hell! There’s no depth in it!’,” Fogarty said in the Speedvision inteiwiew. “Look at it now and you’ve got [Colin] Edwards,fast - consistent, and then, like - [PierFrancesco] Chili,[Nori] Haga and that’s it. Three riders. It’s a joke. “I think that the manufacturers are really going to have to get their 21 July 2000

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Mouthing off: Carl Fogarty fingers out of their arses and sign some good riders. And not just one but two.” While overlooking the fact Corser has won five races aboai-d the under-developed Aprilia this season, Fogarty also said he believed he’d handed this season’s championship over on a platter to Edwards and, with Haga’s drug problems hanging over his head, thought the series

should stop now... ‘You take the main man out and it tm-ns it wide open,” he said. “When I crashed I thought I handed the title to Edwards on a plate. Haga was looking fast and consistent, for a change, and when he was taken out of it - why don’t we just stop the whole season now and hand the trophy to Edwards?” Fogarty did criticise Haga’s loss of points and said it stirs thoughts of a conspiracy. “AH right, dock his points from the first round and give him a fine, but everyone deseiwes a second chance.[What theyve done]starts making me think that there is somebody giving someone money to do things which ain’t right.” The final slap in the face from Fogarty came for Edwards... “I feel Sony for Colin in some ways, I really do because ... he’s the guy who’ll have won in the year when Carl Fogarty got injured and that’s tough to live with. And I don’t think he’ll admit it but that will really niggle him,” -DARRYLFLACK

The Haga Saga THE 'Haga Saga’ continued on July 7 when Noriyuki Haga was granted a reprieve from his three-week suspension for a positive drugs test and allowed to participate at the Laguna Seca round of the World Superbike series. A fax from Paul DuParc of the FIM to Laguna Seca organisers said: "Please note that Mr. Noriyuki Haga can participate in the race at Laguna Seca as the Court of Arbitration for Sport(CAS) has decided to stay the execution of decision of the TIA. The CAS will judge the appeal of Mr. Haga and take a final decision at a later date." Haga was also docked 45 points for the return of a positive drugs test. If the points were to be counted, Haga would be leading the series by 12. n Six of the greatest motorcycle road racers ever have been inducted into the recently-formed MotoGP Hall of Fame. Giacomo Agostini, Angel Nieto, Mike Hailwood, Wayne Rainey, Kevin Schwantz and Kenny Roberts Sr joined the first inductee, Australia's five-time world champion Mick Doohan, in the Hall of Fame during a special ceremony at Donington Park last weekend. Each member of the Hall of Fame was given a MotoGP Legends silver medal - Mike Hailwood's widow, Pauline, accepting on her late husband's behalf - while they also donated some part of their racing history to be put on display alongside Doohan's replica helmet. n us Superbike rider Jamie Bowman was fatally injured in a single motorcycle accident while practising for the domestic AMA Superbike Series round at Laguna Seca on July 7. Bowman, who was riding for the factory-backed Hooters Suzuki team in the US series, passed away from severe head injuries after being airlifted to the nearby San Jose Medical Centre, Honda rider Nicky Hayden, who took out the win the following day and closed the gap to series points leader Mat Mladin, dedicated the victory to his friend. n Australian Mark Willis was part of the triumphant Yamaha French Team that took out the Spa 24-hour near Liege, Belgium on July 15-16. Teaming up with Jean-Marc Deletang and Fabien Foret, Willis and his squad beat home the M&P Phase One team of Stephane Mertens, Peter Linden and fellow Australian Warwick Nowland. It was Willis's first outing with Yamaha France after testing with the team a month ago. - DARRYL FUCK 23

OPINION

The Rat's pitch report Radisich looks forward to Ford's new front aero package

The topic grid of the moment is reverse racing. Personally, I think it's a short term solution as far as spicing the racing up, but I guess that while there's still a parity issue over the two cars, I can understand using the reverse grid scenario from AVESCO's point of view to try and introduce different winners. I don't really think it's necessary, but while there are still some outstanding issues, I guess it's the reason why they are looking at it. What outstanding issues? It just comes down to making the two cars as close as they possibly can fjom a technical point of view.’ I understand that from now on the Fords are going

to run pretty much the Holden undertray (except for the mounting positions, which are different of course) The shape and the area of the floor are going to be modelled on the Holden. Mark (Larkham) tested the other week with this in place. They threw all sorts of things at it but ultimately we won't know what the conclusion of it all is 24

until we test ourselves. differences between the cars Changes like these need to be different shapes, wings working tested and the testing does differently etc. So just because need to be shared around . you stick on a Holden aerodynamic package doesn't because some cars may be slightly different to others. n So to throw it all on and turn up on a Friday afternoon and expect to go out and have everything spot on for Saturday is very much wishful thinking. Our car is very pitch sensitive - not just the DJR cars but all Ford AU models in general - and . we hope that the change will help us in that area in which we're lacking. The second gain from the new front will cover those instances when we do run off the rdad hopefully the change will allow us to do so without tearing the

whole front end off the car as has been the case with the current front... Everybody's sick of listening to the parity issue. Let's just get on and get it fixed. It's a parity formula so let's sort it out. AVESCO is doing that and that's great - but it's going to take a little bit of time. You're always going to have

Motor Mouth with Paul Radlslch 0

n the weekend. Ford's first round win went out the window in race three. Oil and other substances on the road is always an issue, but the flag marshals will often pick it up and sometimes you don't. You have to keep your eyes glued to the road. The system as a whole though seems to be working pretty well - compared to last year anyway. When you go to different tracks you've generally got different flag marshals and so on. Radisich takes a speccyl Not everybody will The Rat goes a little bit too early over Junior Johnson. pick it up. Free kick we reckon ... I would support the introduction of a V8 Supercar 'Safety mean it's Team' like they have in CART effectively and the IRL. going to Anything you can do to make work straight it more consistent - and that can away on a only be by having people at Falcon. every round and each race There's still meeting doing the same thing testing to do, is going to make the whole but the point show a lot more professional. is that Whether we're big enough as something's a category to support this is being done something you'd have to talk to and action Tony Cochrane about. has been From the outside we're going taken. If by the end of this year it in the right direction and the can be fully sorted so that the more professional it gets, the two cars are fairly close in more correct it has to be, technical dimensions, then that's because there's more at stake. It great for leading into next year. will be a natural progression If we can go into next year anyway. knowing that the issue is taken care of, and that it comes down As long as you have 'weekend vyarriors' who come in and just to the driver, team, strategy and do it now and again, you're so on, then we're really going to see some exciting racing never quite going to have the consistency. motorsport news

^ptimisnty monocycles travelling fronn race to race Years ago, when going i was from around Europe, circuit to circuit on miserable old trains, I met a man on the night train from Nice to Milan. He taught cne about optimism, Without wishing to sound like a Barry Manilow song, his name was Lolo, he was a showman. He came from Spain and was going to Italy to take up a job in a circus. He was an acrobat. He was in a bit of a hurry to get to Italy because things had not gone well for him in the previous 24 hours. He had tried to cross the border the night before we met and had been stopped by the Italian customs men. They had asked him lots of questions, including: "Is this stuff in your pocket cannabis?" They had then decided that perhaps Italy was better off without Lolo the acrobat and had sent him back to France. Lolo had spent the day in Nice feeling sorry for himself. To cheer himself up he had bought some more cannabis and things seemed less desperate when he boarded the train again that night. "It is okay," henold me. "They won't recognise me. It will be all right. 1 will be with the circus in the morning." I thought to mention that mixing with the other backpackers would be a little easier if he did not have to travel with a monocycle but there seemed to be little point. He could not work in Italy without one. As we approached the border, . however, Lolo suddenly had a thought. "You take cannabis across the border for me?" he asked sheepishly. It seemed a funny thing to ask on The Midnight Express and I politely declined the opportunity. He shrugged. Oh well, they would not recognise him. A few minutes later I watched Lolo being led away with his monocycle glinting under the neon lights of the miserable station. He would be back soon he said. The train left without him. But the glow of optimism from the station could be seen on the horizon as we rattled off into Italy. I the wasother reminded of thisI found optimism day when myself pondering the issue of the moment 26

in Formula 1. Will Jacques Villeneuve go to Benetton or will he stay with British American Racing? It is important in that the FI Silly Season is being held up by the decision. Until Villeneuve moves all the other moves cannot be made.' Villeneuve has now wasted two seasons at BAR. The team is getting better but there is still a long way to go before It begins to challenge for race wins. World Championship points are difficult enough at the moment. And one has to wonder whether this season gives a true picture of the potential of some of the other top teams, BAR is not challenging Ferrari and McLaren, it is barely a threat to Jordan and one must point out that Jaguar, Williams and Benetton {read Renault) are all going through interim years as new'felationships begin. Problems will be ironed out. BAR will no doubt improve but will the others make a bigger jump forward? And then there is the question of tyres. What happens if one tyre company is better than the other and BAR is on the wrong tyres? Craig Pollock has told the international media that he is optimistic that Villeneuve will stay with BAR next year. It is not impossible that he will h succeed in keeping hold of ^ Jacques, but then again, ^ moving to Benetton does n make an awful lot of sense ™ for Villeneuve. The Honda Motor Company has already made it very clear that it is less than enthralled by BAR'S efforts this year. If all was rosy in the garden, the Japanese car company would not have done a deal for Jordan Grand Prix to use factory Honda engines next year. There would have been no need. BAR may be helping Honda out with chassis technology (or vice versa) but the need for results is such that Jordan was called in to do the job. And it has a five year contract to go on doing the job. i

Which brings us to the other major influence on Villeneuve's decision: British American Tobacco. There is no doubt that BAT bosses are rather confused about the fact that as much as $200m has been spent in FI in the last two years and the result has been only a handful of World Championship points. There is no doubt that if the team wants to continue next year on its path to the top, there will need to be more commercial sponsors.

"BAR is not challenging Ferrari and McLaren. It is barely a threat to Jordanrr

Honda does not need to pay as it had an insurance policy for success in the form of Jordan and BAT's board are showing no signs of driving down to Brackley with an extra truckload of dollar bills. Commercial sponsorship is going to be hard to find because results have been hard to find. Losing Villeneuve would be a severe blow to the value of the team.

Bat millions couldbut come tobacco up with more companies are not doing very well at the moment. American legal actions are hitting profit margins. Two years ago the tobacco companies agreed to pay the states governments of the USA a total of US$206bn ($342bn) in compensatory damages to cover healthcare costs for individual smokers who had fallen III. This was a tough blow and did not restrict private legal actions against the cigarette companies. Last week a Florida court added another US$145bn to the tobacco bill with the first major 'class action' involving individuals. Hundreds more similar decisions could be made. It is now wiser for big investors to sell tobacco stocks and to buy legal firms, which are making zillions from all these legal battles. Luxury adventures such as Formula 1 are becoming less attractive to BAT shareholders. The word in the Formula 1 paddock is that BAT is only willing to pay Villeneuve $8m for next year and that it wants to sign him up for a couple more years. This would get the company to the end of its current commitments and keeping Villeneuve would keep the value of the team higher than it would be

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nd dreams ofglory Jean is rich. He has all the toys that money can hoy and he is content. He probably tries not to think too much about what might have been"

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with Joe Seward with a Fisichella or a Panis driving. ^The word is that Renault is willing to pay almost double that to get hold of Villeneuve, Renault's last World Champion and the major French-speaking star in the FI world. The deal is easy to sell because Jacques knows the men at Renault Sport. He has been with them in 1996, 1997, 1998 and 1999. They have changed their shirts but they are the same people. Jacques has worked with Honda for just a few months and while

he knows that the Japanese engines are good, he knows that Renault's could be better. It was with all this is in his head that Jacques went off last week on a boat to discuss his future with his team boss, his closest personal advisor and his manager (or at least the man who employs someone to be his manager). And if you think that when the daily negotiations were done that they all sat down for some interesting games of partner bridge, you would be mistaken because the foursome was really only a twosonhe. Craig Pollock plays all three of the other roles in this drama and so holds all the cards. One cannot negotiate with a man on a trampoline, jumping from one camp to another. / My guess is that they did no real negotiation but rather they went through every possible scenario and worked out what would happen to each of them. Whatever Jacques does. Pollock gains financially. If Jacques leaves BAR it is hard to imagine that

PAOPOL

Pollock would stay. Their futures are interlinked. The fact that they are even talking of staying suggests that somehow or other Villeneuve must be a shareholder in the team and stands to gain far more than Renault is offering if the operation were to be sold. But it is not about money. If the pair leave BAR they will become employees again and they will have less say in how things happen. Perhaps it is better to stay on an try to continue to build up the team and eventually (in a glowing world of optimism) one day to win races. This is a lovely idea but the reality of FI must have taught them that this is not going to happen overnight. And Jacques is not getting any younger. His five minutes of fame will soon be over.

n the long drive from Vienna to Zeltweg, a colleague and I were discussing the worst decision by a Formula 1 driver in the last 10 years. It took a nano-second for the two of us to agree. It was back in 1990 when Jean Alesi decided to go to Ferrari rather than join Williams. If he had joined Williams he would have been driving Adrian Newey's Williams-Renault FW14 and then an FW14B and the FW15C in 1993. Between 1991 and 1997 Williams-Renault

XJ-J

What dreams may bring: Is Jean Alesi haunted by what he could have ahieved, or what Alain did achieve? And what will become ofBAR - and will Ricardo Zonta (below, left) even notice when it happens? (Photos by SuUon-Images)

won 58 Grand Prix races, four Drivers' titles and five Constructors' Championships. Jean might have been a triple World Champion. At the French GP Jean's many fans - and I am one of them watched in desperation as he battled for last place with a Minardi. It was terribly sad. Jean is rich. He has all the toys that money can buy and he is content. He probably tries not to think too much about what might have been. What is done is done and it cannot be changed. This is not Villeneuve's problem but perhaps he should consider it. I guess there is a moral somewhere in all this. You may be a great performer, but misplaced optimism will not get you to the circus if you have a mpnocycle holding you back... 2?

Garth Tander

Garth Tander has come of age in 2000, and is a front-running Sheii Series combatant and championship contender. PHIL BRANAGAN spoke to Valvoiine's Taii Guy about his season. Motorsport News: How would you summarise your 200 season so far? Garth Tander: I would say everything is going very well. Apart from Canberra, everything is going to plan. Our pace is probably what we expected it to be; we always thought we would have to pick it up for the second half of the season. We're working on that for the moment.

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MN: People outside the team had higher expectations of you for this season. Did you? GT: I did come into this year expecting to have a better season than last year. But I didn't expect to have the start to the season that we did. We thought that we would come on strong in the second half of the year. But to have the start we did was great. We did a lot of work over the break between '99 and 2000 and it showed, because our car was extremely fast out of the

box and I really concentrated on being consistent, because it's a long year this year. MN: You're in your second full year now. How have you changed in the last two years? GT: I've probably grown up a biti I'd only just turned 21 when I first drove the car and now I've spent a couple of years driving the car. I understand the cars a lot better now. I know how to set them up and how to get the most out of a green tyre in qualifying and how to relay information back to the engineers and the mechanics. Really, I've just matured a little bit. I didn't finish a lot of races in 1998 but this year I have finished most of them. MN: When you started there was a bit of that -'Garth says, I'm no crash magnet!'. Was that hard to put behind you? motorsport rows

INTERVIEW Burning ambition: Tander started the season with an overall win at Phillip Island. (Photos by Dirtt Klynsmith)

Cars and AUSCARs. They have a great amount of knowledge and they know what it takes to run a V8 Supercar and know what it takes to achieve success. When Garry is not around, they are the main two players who call the shots.

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GT: Not really. I always believed I was capable of doing the job. You don't take a lot of notice of what other people say when you are focused on what you want to achieve. What I wanted to achieve was to prove that I was quick enough and responsible enough to do the job. As to what other people might say or think, it's up to them. I was more interested in proving people wrong and proving that I could do the job. MN: At the same time you have gone through that process, the team has seemed to have matured as well. GRM started from small beginnings and now they are the ones which have been closest to HRT's Big Red Machine. GT: I joined Garry's team when it had only just expanded to a twocar operation. We were ecstatic every time we qualified or finished a race inside the top 10. As the years have progressed our expectations have risen; we went from being happy to be in the top 10 to being inside the top five, then to expecting to win races. I was fortunate enough to join at the time it really started to pick up its act and I have been able to move along at the same time as the team has. Now it's got to the point in 2000 where we are capable of 21 luly 2000 A

practices; we changed the car at the right time, we went on an engine l development MN: What are program at the the strengths right time, the of the team? same with a Other teams shock appear to have development something program. missing in Everything has - Tander on race wins come to the their mix;they culmination in are good in some areas 2000. I believe that's the main reason we are and, maybe, not so good in others. capable of running with HRT. GT: I really believe that it's this; we are really good mates. We MN: Your team is fairly all socialise together away from unique in that Garry Rogers is the head of the team but he is the track, we play indoor cricket not full-time. He's a together and things like that. businessman with a lot of That's one of the big reasons. commitments that take him We all get along really well. There is no inter-team bickering, away from having a handsno 'A' team and 'B' team. on, day-to-day involvement with the team. Everyone is focused on GT: The team does run itself. achieving the same goal. Everyone works extremely hard We have a couple of very smart to achieve those goals and guys who have been in that's why we have seen the motorsport for a very long time team rise to the top, because in Kevin Shawyer, who is the everyone has focused on workshop manager and he achieving that. We're focused looks after the boys when Garry on winning a championship and is not around. Everyone has winning Bathurst. Our guys will great respect for him and what do whatever it takes to make he says goes. Mike Excel builds the sure that that happens. All credit to Garry for that. He engines and he and Kevin have has chosen the right people, he been with Garry ever since has implemented the right Garry was racing Production beating HRT on any given day when we get our act together.

There is nothing quite as nice as winning races and winning the round and, really, where we are now in the championship,finishing fourth and behind Mark Skaife isn't good enough"

MN: There was an interesting moment in Perth this year when you and Jason Bargwanna ALMOST got together on the track and there was obvious tension after the race. Is it possible to get a positive from something like that? GT: Absolutely. Garry sat us both down and told us to sober up but I think he was quietly happy that there was so much competitive edge between us to get to the front, regardless of whether we were in the same team. It was another position that you have to make ... Sure, it could have ended in tears and we are lucky that it didn't. Jason and I had a talk about it and, at the end of the day, we didn't have a real big drama about it. I've hit him before, he's hit me before. We're very much competitors against each other as much as we are against anyone else. I think that the positive we took out of it is that we are both still driving each other to the front of the grid, regardless of whether it's qualifying, racing, practice or testing - or playing indoor cricket. We're both competitive at anything we do. MN: How close are you on set-up? I understand the cars are now, more or less, identical, a situation you didn't have with the VSs. GT: On base set-up extremely close. When we get to a circuit sometime I will go in a particular direction and Jason goes in a different direction and whatever works best, we will both head down that same road. That's the beauty of having both cars the same now. When we get to a circuit that we don't have a lot of data about, we start with a different direction and get together quite quickly. As fSr as base set-up we are basically identical and, at the track, we share information and continued on page so 28

Garth Tcritder continuQd from page 29 don't hide anything from each

other. There have been times when, half-way through the weekend, Jason's put my set up on his car and I've put his set-up on mine. We're quite fortunate that our driving style is very similar so that we can get away with running the same set-up. That bodes well for the end

developed, without giving

any socrots away, in layman's terms, what is a big change these days? GT; In springs, 100 or 150

pounds. Small adjustments in

roll centres ... When you are in the ball park you can make a small change and it will change the car a lot. When you are out of the car's range you can make a HUGE change and, unless you had watched the guys actually of the year enduros. change the springs, you would not know the difference. That's WIN; Is that what happened where we were in Queensland; at Queensland Raceway? the car was out of its range but You had a lousy qualifying all credit to the guys; they didn't and turned it around with give up and churned through the some good results on numbers and worked on the set Sunday. up. They came up with a car 5? GT: Yes. Jason and I started which was not blisteringly quick running very different set-ups for one lap but, over the race and basically ended up doing distance, it was probably the the same times. That was our best we have ever had our tyre biggest concern; we were life for the race distance. The X missing something positive that came out of the fundamental. I was at one weekend was that we should be -I end of the spectrum and in good shape for the Jason was at the other and " Queensland 500 ... n we couldn't find it. But we H qualified on the same tenth of WIN: The other positive that a second. came for you was that the In the warm-up I tried Sunday result came after a zero at Canberra. ^ something different which GT: There were a few people 2 worked. We put that in H| Jason's car for the second around saying, 'That's it for mQ race and managed to salvage Garth, he's lost his direction a some decent results from bit'. It was nice to get a good 4.1 what had looked like being a result for the Sunday and prove there is still some passing in V8 |l|| pretty average weekend. Supercars. WIN: The margins are We came off grid 12 and obviously becoming smaller bagged a sixth and a couple of now as the cars are Country and City; 2000 highs: Tander wins the opening SCS round at fourths, which proved that we Phillip Island. Lows: Canberra (below), where he ‘zeroed’. (Photobyoirk Kiynsmith) are still fast enough when the chips are down and proved that you don't NEED to qualify well to still get a good result; you can battle away all day and still come away with a reasonable result. We ended up within two points of the podium. We didn't expect that on Saturday night.

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WIN: From you point of view, is that ALMOST as satisfying as taking a couple of wins? Like you said, no-one expected anything from 12th and yet you and your guys managed to turn it around on Sunday. GT: It is satisfying. There have been a couple of races like that where you don't end up on the podium, but you are still just as satisfied at the end of the day from what you managed to achieve. Queensland was like that; 12th to fourth on the day. Last year at Sandown we started 13th and ended up just off the podium as well at a motorsDort news

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circuit which didn’t really suit our car._^ It is rewarding. But there is nothing quite as nice as winning races and winning the round and, really, where we are now in the championship, finishing fourth and behind Mark Skaife isn't good enough. We have to finish first and ahead of Skaife to get somewhere in the championship. While it is rewarding to get a result from a bad situation the Big Picture now means we have to win races. MN: Is that the biggest difference now between the 1998 version of Garth Tander and the 2000 version? / GT: At the beginning of 1998 I was only looking two feet in front of me;'How am I going to get past this guy at the next corner?', insteaid of looking at how to put a smooth lap l together and how to put a good race together. With the benefit of having Garry educate me on how to put a good weekend together. I've been able to learn that the Big Picture is what you need to be looking at. MN: Can you be 'coached' in motor racing? It happens in swimming, cricket or if you are working on a jump shot in basketball; you have a coach to help you with that. Same with a lot of other individual sports. GT: I don't know if you can be 'coached' on your driving style and your ultimate speed. I think that that's something you have to pick up yourself. There have been occasions when the data tells you when you are not braking late enough here of there, if you are game, but I believe you have to pick it up yourself. But, as far as planning your race weekend and keeping your emotions in check, I think there is a lot to be learned from people who have 21 loly 2000

Look closely: Tander made an impact - literally - when he joined the SCS series two years ago. I’m on your side: Jason Bargwanna has been one of the drivers to feel a little #34 on his car. (Photo by API and Marshall Cass)

"I've hit him hefore, he's hit me before. We're very much competitors against each other as much as we are against anyone else rr

- Tander m Jasm Barswanna

been there before. That's where Jason and 1 are very fortunate to have Garry, who has been there before and has done it all before, and very successfully. MN: You've also had to learn to deal with the responsibilities of being one of the top handful of drivers in the country and one of the more recognisable. How tough is that? GT: It's interesting. This year especially, you walk down the street and have people recognise you. Two years ago, you were still dreaming about it, think that it

was something reserved for Peter Brock or Dick Johnson, or even Craig Lowndes. Being recognised while you are walking down the street takes a bit of getting used to. But it's something that I am starting to get on top of. I enjoy the PR side and the media side of things immensely. It was quite daunting when I first started but now, I enjoy it and have a bit of fun. You basically just try and be yourself; I think people like that. But it does take a bit of getting used to, and I'm getting better at it - hopefully ...

MN: Do you also want to have some input into what's happening on the driver side of things? There's been talk of a Drivers' Association, looking at driver safety and behaviour and so on? GT: In reality the drivers do have a little bit of input but, I think, left to their own devices they can be pretty destructive. Racing drivers are very selfish people. They want the best for themselves and I'm no different. We have to make continued on page 32 31

Garth Tander On Ford’s Blues MN:Do you look at the Ford camp? From yoiur perspective you must be able to identify things that need changing on the Ford front. GT: Sometimes I look in amazement... » Look at Bathurst last year. Almost any Ford driver could put their foot down and motor past any Holden driver on Conrod. The Fords have 25-30 more horsepower than the Holdens and that is simply because of the cylinder head layout that they have been able to use. We - the Holden teams believe that they have a superior car with the double front wishbone suspension. They had all sorts offun in America at the beginning of 1999 playing with the aero package in wind tunnels so, really, I can’t see that they have an excuse not to win races. I believe that if Garry Rogers Motorsport took delivery of two Fords tomorrow - which they are not going to do because Holdens are a great product give us three months and we woulcFhave them winning. 1 believe that any other Holden team would say the same thing. But we DON’T have Fords so we CAN’T give you the reason why they are not winning. Only the Ford teams can do that and, it seems, they are struggling to do that to us. I don’t want to bag the Ford guys, because I am sure that they are working very hard, scratching their heads and trying to figure out what they are going to do to fix the difference in the win ratio. But technically, the cars that they have been allowed to homologate should be better. As far as I see, they should be winning races. It’s as simple as that. Maybe they have got to get their package together. Maybe their team structure isn’t right. Maybe they need someone like Garry Rogers for a couple of years to pull everything into line. Then they might get there. They have great teams. Guys like Ross and Jimmy Stone and Dick Johnson Racing -they’re no mugs. Really, I can’t give a real good reason why they are not winning but, technically^, they should be,.. 32

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In the office; Tender has settled into GRM’s VT. Nice legs, shame about the fez: Tander has nothing but praise for team boss Garry Rogers, despite his hat. continued from page 31' sure that we look at the Big Picture. As far as track safety and crowd facilities go, the drivers should, I think, have a big input. Obviously, It's.our livelihood that we are looking after and without fans, we don't have a job. Really, we want to make sure that we give those points a good looking at. As far as category management and so on, leave it to the people that have done it so far. They have done a good job. As far as parity goes, I have nothing to say about that. With respect to the technical people, they have got a better idea than the drivers; we know how to drive fast but we don't know what makes a car tick and they do. We have to be careful but yes, drivers should have input into some aspects. MN: You're 23 and you're going to be in this for a long time. You're in the first year of a three-year contract with GRM. You've got a big investment in this ... GT: And I've just bought a house in Melbourne so I'm having a big investment there too! Really, I'm in V8s for the long haul and, as far as I can see in the foreseeable future, I won't be leaving GRM either, Garry, Valvoline, Cummins, Holden . . . they gave me an incredible break when I was still very young and still wet behind the ears. They all took a punt on me and I would like to be able to repay that. As far as I can see, I will be staying with Garry and I want to learn more about the business side of racing teams. As far as driving goes I still

(Photos by Dirk Klynsmith)

have a lot to learn but I have a lot to learn about the business side of things, similar to what Mark Skaife did when he was at Gibson's with Freddy. That's something for the future, not something for now but we are always looking at progress and I want to be a part of it. MN: There's been a lot of talk about driving standards and what are appropriate penalties. Are you satisfied with the current system? GT: No, not really. Half way through last year the drivers sat down with the stewards and the race director and CAMS and said, 'What does everyone want to get out of this meeting?' The drivers wanted consistency from the officials; the officials wanted cleaner

1 can't give a real good reason why they are not winning hut, technically they should be 9t

- Tansler on Fmd’s win lecasri

driving from the drivers and we agreed on a set of guidelines. The officials, when they see something wrong, should slap the drivers across the wrist and give them a decent and appropriate penalty. As far as I have seen so far, that hasn't happened. The drivers have cleaned up their act a lot and there is probably a bit more that needs to be done. When you race inside the top 10 you know that you are going to have a nice, clean race.

because everyone respects everyone else's position as much as you'd expect. But, if someone does something wrong, there are still not appropriate penalties, I believe, I think that is why we are starting to see some ... interesting moves, because drivers are getting frustrated. We're getting to the stage where we will all have to sit down and have another meeting and actually get it right this time. MN: Do you feel now that you have the ... reputation, the clout, to stand up for that? Can you initiate something like that? GT: I don't know. I have often gone and spoken to other drivers and said, 'What do you think of this or that?' and sometimes they agree with me. As drivers, I think we can't be seen to have just one driver starting something all the time, motorsport news

INTEUVIEW That would just be looked at as whingeing. It's not that bad at the moment, there are only a few drivers you have to be wary of. Unless they are brought into line, I think someone will have to stand up and say,'Hang on a minute, let's sort this out'. MN; We're talking about a potentially dangerous business here. These cars do 300kmh and, with you and a half-tank of fuel aboard, they weight 1500 kilos. There is potential for a BIG downside. Is there any mindset among the drivers that, so far, everyone has been lucky? GT: Yes, there is that mindset. We have been lucky. We had Craig's accident last year and he was fortunate enough to walk away. That was the result of everyone trying to go through the same hole, not of any malice to anyone. It was one of those things. There have been other big accidents where people have walked away and yes, we have been lucky. The driving has cleaned up quite a bit. There are a few guys you have to be wary of and everyone, pretty much, knows who those drivers are.

We are aware of it and it will probably take someone getting seriously hurt before something is done about it. MN: The leader could be you. It's not like you haven't been on the receiving end of some of those penalties. GT: It could be me, but I don't was to be seen as a 23-year-old whinger from WA. I'm more interested in driving fast that worrying about the politics side of things. MN: When you were in Formula Ford you looked at V8 Supercar racing from the outside. Now at GRM, you're on the inside. People get things wrong when they look at things from the outside. What did YOU get wrong when you looked from the outside? GT: Now that's an interesting question ... (long pause). When.1-was in Formula Ford I was an open-wheeler purist. I had my ambitions set on Formula Holden, Europe and an open-wheeler career. I used to think that Supercars were, not dinosaurs, but not very technically advanced, and you

didn't have to be very precise to drive them. After driving them and learning about setting them up, they are probably MORE difficult to set up than an open wheeler due to the fact that they have such a large amount of weight rolling around on four shocks. You have to be able to control that and put the power that they have on the ground. I didn't understand how technically knowledgable you had to be able to sort out a V8 Supercar. I didn't give the category enough credit. I didn't place it on a par with something like a Formula Holden or an Indy

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Ligpts/Formula 3000-like situation. I vvas very, very wrong. They are technical bits of kit to get right. MN: Is't getting easier or harder? GT: Easier, because I'm learning more and more about them. MN: So is everyone else. GT: That's why it's getting more competitive. There's a lot of great operators out there, good teams, good drivers, good engineers, who work in the class and make it so competitive. n

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rvo SUPEROARS isno\

Round 4 4 ta G August SOOO Action See homegrown heroes, Wakefield and Harris take on the southern cars of Canto and McLeod

Action packed racing for V8 Supercars, Porsche Cup, Daewoo Lanos, Sports Sedans, Saloon Cars and Improved Production Cars

1 _^ RAC

21 luly 2000

● Free an-stte parhtng ● Free entry to pits ■ ChtIMren under IS free V * Penslaner/student discaunts/graup bankings discounts ● Ph 07 3SBS 3333 3S

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WINTON

Fightback Pack The season is a long way from JUST when it looked like Jason Bargwanna was going to have an unrewarded season, a little luck and a fair bit of car speed turned his season around in Round 8 of the Shell Championship Series.

Qualifying by AARON NOONAN Race by PHIL BRANAGAN Bargwanna claimed his second straight round win at Winton, riding his fortune while those around him

suffered theirs. Despite qualifying a lowly ninth the Valvoline Commodore driver took Holden’s record 16th straight round win. But for a long time Bargwanna looked like anything but a Contender.

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Front row qualifiers Glenn Seton and Garth Tander split the first two races but spun out on oil in the decider, leaving it to Craig Lowndes to chase Bargs. That he did, but a nerf while passing for the lead cost the defending Champion a stop/go penalty, sending him back to, ironically, the Seton/Tander battle for 16th. The other man to have a snakes and ladders day was Mark Skaife. The points leader looked to be in mortal danger when he got turned around on the first lap of race one but some stellar work by the HRT crew and determined driving salvaged a 14th and a third from what looked like being a disaster. Taking second on the day was the consistent Paul Radisich while Seton recovered to third overall, smiling though the knowledge of knowing this was the race in 2000 that got away from Ford Tickford Racing. Breakthroughs: Seton got his first win in two years in Race 2, fighting off Tander. He even got onto the podium with Bargwanna and Radisich, despite spinning in Race 3.

motorsDort news

^SHUl'cHAMPIOHSHIP SERIES A man and his fans: As always Bargwanna was a popular Winton winner.

age over

(Photos by Chris Carter)

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Shell Championship Series Round 8 15-16 July 2000

Qualifying They said that thebest Queensland Fords had their shot at Queensland. Did that mean then that Victorian Fords would do best in Victoria? Looking at practice you had to think that it would be Victorian Holdens who would be the ones to beat in qualifying. It was, wasn't, was, er .... sort of was. After a damp track with a f drying line in the first practice session and a dry track for the second, the clouds threatened qualifying. And surprises threatened too. The rain didn't come but the surprises did. While Skaife topped the second practice session, Bowe, Faulkner, Seton and Radisich were all behind. Tander 12th as well... Fresh tyres were the go for

...

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continued on page 36

WiNTQN

Pole vaulting

HIDDEN Valley 1999. That was the last time that Glenn Seton sat on pole for a round of the Shell Series. A long time? Probably not as long as some,” said Seton. “Naturally it’s important to be on pole here because it’s a circuit where there’s not a lot of opportunity to pass. “After Wanneroo, our team has been consistently going forward. Our race results show that. One of the team cars has been on the podium at every race except for Queensland.” And there wasn’t just one FTR car up at the front either with Neil Crompton planting car #6 on the second row. “Neil’s set-up spec is a copy of mine. So is that why Cromley was right behind the boss? “It’s hard to say,” said Seton. ‘The previous set-up hasn’t been in on this track to find the difference.” Fresh tyres were the order of the day just as they have been at every round this year. Crompton used a roaded set on his first run and set his time on ‘freshies’ on run two. Maybe if he’d gone for two lots of ‘freshies’ there would have been two servings of ‘Fordies’ on the front row... - AARON NOONAN li

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No pole-ish jokes; Glenn Seton.

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continued from page 35 qualifying, but remember how those Kmart cars don't qualifying very well? Not quite so. Richards belted a 23.319 on his first set of tyres to be two-tenths quicker than Skaife's practice time very early in the top 50 percent session.

Bolt on another set and go back out? Didn't happen. The VT broke a diff leaving Richo stranded in the pit entrance and on the sidelines. That didn't stop him staying on top. Until Seton went out. The FTR driver nailed a 22.8 and that was pole. Nobody got dangerously close, a sizeable (and

fQualifying^

POS DRIVER Glenn Seton 1 2 Garth Tender 3 Greg Murphy 4 Neil Crompton Mark Skaife 5 6 Craig Lowndes 7 Steven Richards 8 Todd Kelly 9 Jason Bargwanna John Bowe 10 11 Russell Ingall 12 Paul Radisich 13 Mark Larkham 14 Larry Perkins 15 John Faulkner 16 Steven Ellery 17 Cameron McLean 18 Rodney Forbes 19 Craig Baird 20 Tony Longhurst 21 Cameron McConville 22 Paul Weel 23 Brad Jones 24 Steven Johnson 25 Dugal McDougall 26 Paul Morris 27 Paul Romano 28 Rod Nash 29 Steve Reed 30 Trevor Ashby 31 Rick Bates 32 Anthony Tratt 33 Tyler Mecklem 34 Alan Fleath 35 Chris Smerdon 36 John Cotter 37 Tomas Mezera

CAR

FTR Falcon AU Valvoline Commodore VT Kmart Commodore VT FTR Falcon AU FIRT Commodore VT FIRT Commodore VT Kmart Commodore VT Mycar Commodore VT Valvoline Commodore VT CAT Falcon AU Castrol Commodore VT Shell Flelix Falcon AU Mitre 10 Falcon AU Castrol Commodore VT Asia Online Commodore VT Super Cheap Falcon AU Greenfield Falcon AU Wynn's Commodore VT Pirtek Falcon AU Caltex Havoline Falcon AU Autopro Commodore VT K&J Thermal Falcon AU OzEmail Falcon AU Shell Helix Falcon AU Pepsi Commodore VT Big Kev Commodore VS Romano Commodore VS Repco Commodore VT Optus/PPG Commodore VS Optus/PPG Commodore VS Colourscan Falcon AU Toll Falcon Ultra Tune TDK Commodore VS Coopers Falcon AU E Wine Commodore VT Gatorade Commodore VT Densitron Commodore VT

TIME

1:22.8529 1:23.1924 1:23.2054 1:23.2118 1:23.2668 1:23.2883 1:23.3187 1:23.4119 1:23.4509 1:23.5338 1:23.5527 1:23.5642 1:23,6762 1:23,7104 1:23.7244 1:23.7267 1:23.7676 1:23,7704 1:23.9766 1:24.0118 1:24.2234 1:24.2800 1:24.3425 1:24.3456 1:24.4465 1:24.6898 1:25.0703 1:25.2457 1:25.3054 1:25.6875 1:25.8180 1:25.9000 1:26.1182 1:26.1191 1:26.5723 1:27.6402 No Time

#scsBounii9 Winton Raceway molorsaort Rews

SHEIL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES still struggling: The Stone cars of Baird (left) and Longhurst showed pace in the race after struggling in qualifying.

(Pholo by Dirk Klynsmith)

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increasing) puddle which had formed on the inside of the old turn three caught both Seton and Skaife out though on hotties and they both speared off into the grass. “We're going forward,” said Seton. “To win tomorrow I'd be more happy ■with. Winning races ivins championships. We want some race wins and some round wins. It's the only way we can catch Skaifey unless he has a mechanical problem in the endures.” Glenn though wasn't the only one heading in the right direction. With Seton at the top and Richards sliding down the order, Neil Crompton planted the #6 car

"We want some race wins and some round wins. It's the only way we can catch Skailey n

- Poieman Blemt Seton

on the outside of the first row, until Tander chimed in late in the session to steal second, still threetenths slower than Sqton though. Once again the Valvoline driver had dug his way out of a hole. A stuck throttle in the first practice and a lowly 12th in the second didn't bode well but he showed his championship mettle to gi'ab second. It’s not how you perform at the top, it’s how you fight yomway back to it... “I buggered up my first run but I put in a big effort on the second. The mud, water and other junk on the track though was there so that was the best I could do,” he said. For Crompton it was his best qualifying performance since a fourth at Symmons last season while it was Seton’s first pole since 21 July 2000

Hidden Valley'99. Cromley had 'knocked the shine' off his first set in second practice but soon found that his second set of'freshies' were the way to go. The #6 car in recent races has been set-up along the lines of #5 and the overall consistency of the latter's seemed to be paying off in the former. So it was Seton, Tander, Crompton and Skaife on the first two rows. Go file the story and wait for the bottom 50 percent to finish before the press conference? Usually, but not this time. Greg Murphy was running in ' the second session after his car underwent an engine change and, after a few setup changes, put in a 23.2 to pole vault to third on the team’s home track. Who said Kmart cars don't qualify well? Okay, so it was only Murfs third top 10 qualifying performance of the year, but things are starting to get moving for the team with the series reaching full swing. November isn't that far way ... The red Holdens meanwhile were still looking strong in fifth and sixth (Lowndes later saying that that the pressures weren't quite right on run one and the increase in water had hampered run two when adjustments had been made for the better) while Richards was eventually bumped back to seventh but still happy with that. Todd Kelly again impressed with eighth in the Young Lions VT ahead of Bargwanna, Bowe (the first of the non-Winton testers) and Ingall. “With that patch of water you didn't know how hard you could push. It's a fine line but obviously I should have pushed a bit harder,” said Bargs. Radisich was 12th with Larkham 13th. The Mitre 10 machine blew a diff a la Richards and didn't get to use his second set ■of tyres. Larko thought a front two rows start was a goer but instead found himself with a little work to

do.

Perkins (who paid a visit to the marshall's post before the water logged sweeper to find out whose responsibility the water was) out pointed Faulkner, who can’t help but go fast in practice and fall in qualifying, while Steve Ellery, (Tameron McLean and Rodney Forbes all bumped their way

continued on page 38

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Old foes: Former Super Tourers Jones and Morris got to play in the bath, whiie feiiow ST graduates Baird and McConviiie ieave Bradley to look at his Faicon's busted spiitter.

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{Photosby John Moms/Mpix and Slipstream Photographic)

New foes? Not reaiiy, though Garth Tander and John Bowe hooked up pretty hard in Race 3. Tander got going quickly while Bowe had to wait,and wait, and ... (Photosby Slipstream Photographic and Phil Williams)

continued from page 37

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forward from the second session, relegating the two Stone Brothers cars of Craig Baird and Tony Longhurst to 19th and 20th respectively. Things go from bad to worse ... Of the rest Cameron McConviiie did well for 21st after an engine change forced him to miss the majority of practice, while Steven Johnson continued to struggle in #17, 24th and 1.5s off the pace. A run off the tarmac hadn't helped things, and, with Radisich also running off in practice, there were no DJR front spoilers left if the yellow and red cars visited the green. In the debutantes 'category', Rick Bates was 31st, Tyler Mecklem 33rd. It was a miracle that the Ultra Tune TDK car was even there. After their engine problems of recent times the car had had to be changed to accommodate its new engine and the transporter only rolled into Winton at lam on

Saturday morning. With Bob Tindal now looking after the car things were looking on course for a solid debut from the former Formula Pordster. Things weren't looking good in the Densitron pit. Tomas Mezera dropped a wheel off the track in practice and spun, backing the tangerine machine into the wall, causing hefty damage and putting him out for the weekend. So there were three Fords in the top 10 and two in the top four. Add to that another change over recent times to the start. With the cars now blasting off from opposite the new pits, the approach to the Motorsport News Esses on lap one would be fast, or, as Craig Lowndes said, interesting” ...

Race 1 (20 laps incl. Safety Car) Tt rained and rained and rained A all night - but raceday dawned fine again (thanks AVESCO) and the drivers knew that a wheel off line would equal a bogged Supercar, a tow and a few (maybe) lost laps, if not a DNF. The dash to the new first corner would be all-important and Tander beat Seton to the Motorsport News sign. Muiphy made a blinder to temporarily challenge, before chaos broke out when Morris, Jones and Ashby went off into the murk at the Esses. There was another kerfuffle at Turn 3, allowing Tander to pull a 2s gap before the sweeper. But it was not to last... The inevitable concertina effect was felt at Penrite. Murphy hit the rear of Crompton, whose Falcon banged into the rear of Skaife. “I’ve been hit,” Skaife radioed his crew. “It’s buggered.” The red VT huiied around, losing a left-front wheel and suspension as Perkins nosed into him, bending a front crossmember motorsport news

^SHUl CHAMPIONSHIP SEBUS left on the GRM car smoked for a while “but the crew said,‘keep going’” and it stopped. Radisich was right up his clacker from Ingall, Bowe, Kelly and Ellery. Faulkner and Weel went off together on lap 16, both baulked by Forbes and both surfing off at the MN Esses. Weel rejoined near Longhurst, both tangling at the final corner a lap later and earning a chat with the stewards at Oran Park.

Race 2(18 laps incl. Safety Car) The cars rolled onSeton their formation lap,out with determined to beat Tender away. Skaife was aboard and, as the front row came to a stop, nosed the red VT out to start from pit lane. The decision to drive the wounded car in was right. Another 30 seconds and he would have had fresh tyres - for race three. Seton did beat Tander away, Lowndes beating Murphy, Bargwanna, Radisich and Ingall away. Crompton was nowhere (eighth); “not great”, he Pivotal moment: Skaife faces the traffic at Penrite in the first race. He was coliected by Perkins (hidden behind Faulkner #46, top) but drove back to the pits where the HRT crew started a minor miracle ...

continued on page 40

(Photos by John Morris/Mpix and Dirk Klynsmith)

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and busting a radiator, before he was in turn collected by Nash’s Commodore. While the Safety Car headed out Skaife and Perkins struggled in where they met differing responses; the Castrol VT, due to journeyed to Team Kiwi on Thursday, was parked; the HRT army attacked Skaife’s car. Mark looked like thunder and placed his weekend, maybe season, in his crew’s hands. That wasn’t the end of it. While the Safety Car was out, Ashby inadvertently clouted Romano into a spin. Paul tried to throttle the car around, spun 360 degrees and grassed the car, losing half a lap.

They went green on lap 4. Tander zoomed away from the two blue Fords, only to be slowed again when the Tenneco car headed out because McDougall was stranded at Turn three. Again, Garth’s restart was perfect and this time, with no interference from the Safety Car, he pulled 1.3s over the last nine laps to win from Seton and Crompton. Lowndes threw everything at the ex-HRT driver but settled for fourth from Murphy and Bargwanna, who snuck past Richards at turn 3, the two rubbing wheels and the Kmart car taking to the dirt. The front-

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WIMTOH continued from page 39

SOS Round 8 Winvon Raceway

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fla Race 1 - 20 laps Pos Driver 1 Tander 2 Seton 3 Crompton 4 Lowndes 5 Murphy 6 Bargwanna 7 Radisich 8 Ingall 9 Bowe 10 Kelly 11 Eliery 12 Forbes 13 McLean 14 Johnson 15 Reed 16 Baird 17 Tratt 18 Morris 19 Larkham 20 Richards 21 Heath 22 Smerdon 23 McConville 24 Bates 25 Mecklem 26 Romano 27 Ashby 28 Faulkner DNF Longhurst DNF Weel DNF McDougall DNF Cotter DNF Nash DNF Perkins DNF Skaife DNF Jones Rice 2-12 lips 1 Seton 2 Tander 3 Bargwanna 4 Murphy 5 Lowndes 6 Radisich 7 Bowe Kelly 9 Ellery 10 Richards 11 Forbes 12 Johnson 13 Baird 14 Skaife 15 Morris 16 McLean 17 Larkham 18 Longhurst 19 Crompton 20 Romano 21 Heath 22 Bates 23 Ashby 24 Nash 25 Jones 26 Weel 27 Reed 28 Faulkner 29 Smerdon 30 McDougall 31 Cotter DNF McConville DNF Ingall ONF Mecklem DNF Tratt Race 3-19 laps 1 Bargwanna 2 Radisich 3 Skaife 4 Longhurst 5 Baird 6 Johnson 7 Ingall 8 Crompton 9 McLean 10 Mortis 11 Weel 12 Larkham 13 McConville 14 Murphy 15 Forbes 16 Seton 17 Lowndes 18 Tander 19 Tratt 20 Reed 21 Romano 22 Ashby 23 Smerdon 24 Bates 25 Heath 26 McDougall 27 Cotter ONF Kelly ONF Nash ONF Jones ONF Bowe DNF Richards ONF Perkins ONF Ellery ONF Faulkner ONF Mecklem

Race time 31:53.8216 31:55.0784 31:56.5630 31:56.8261 31:57.9990 31:58.6252 31:58.9825 32:00.3241 32:02.4855 32:04.1231 32:04.5405 32:10.6461 3ZT4.4141 32T7.9415 32:19.3861 32:19.5053 32:219741 32:23.6851 32:24.0002 32:24.1138 32:24.9620 32:25.5040 32:26.2315 32:27.6424 32:31.8278 19 laps 19 laps 18 laps 16 laps 15 laps 12 laps 11 laps 3 laps

Fastest lap 1:24.7007 1:25.0596 1:26.1228 1:25.0582 1:25.1333 1:25.0301 1:24.9145 1:24.9360 1:25.2446 1:25.3082 1:25.4123 1:25.5344 1:25.5165 1:25.7525 1:25.7796 1:25.7907 1:26.2334 1:26.3742 1:25.2025 1:25.2446 1:26.4194 1:26.5974 1:26.0237 1:27.0303 1:27.0677 1:26.4774 1:26.2244 1:25.4003 1:25.4950 1:25.8818 1:25.5581 1:27.9279 2:11.8504 5:33.5002 5:46.7764

Olaps 26:37.8284 26:38.5696 26:39.3645 26:41.5025 26:42.1735 26:45.6768 26:46.1573 26:48.4227 26:48.7485 26:49.5619 26:53.2236 26:53.7255 26:57.4255 26:57.9779 27:00.8236 27:01.2724 27:02.4160 27:02.7549 27:07.5378 27:12.9333 27:23.7128 27:25.0335 27:25.5570 27:26.2204 27:26.6441 27:28.0993 27:30.7115 27:30.8639 27:34.0869 27:42.5900 28:01.0565 14 laps 14 laps 9 laps 7 laps

1:24.9968 1:25.0804 1:25.0865 1:25.1632 1:25.0599 1:24.5721 1:25.1770 1:25.3097 1:25.2284 1:24.9125 1:25.4459 1:25.4763 1:25.4414 1:25.2510 1:25.5675 l 1:25.6054 1:25.3335 1:25.0536 1:25.1995 1:26.4368 1:27.3925 1:26.6625 1:26.2337 1:26.7351 1:25.6198 1:26.0900 1:25.9306 1:24.9971 1:26.5878 1:26.0034 1:28.5023 1:25.9737 1:25.1024 1:27.7266 1:26.6496

29:26.4102 29:26.5783 29:28.1232 29:31.3159 29:33.5100 29:36.9681 29:37.4316 29:38.2229 29:38.7689 29:42.7085 29:43.7041 29:44.0120 29:44.8249 29:46.9131 29:50.4459 29:51,8024 29:51.9654 29:52.6719 29:53.4765 29:55.3585 29:57.1553 29:57.4544 30:02.2267 30:03.2538 30:04.0410 30:17.4650 30-26.4184 5 laps Slaps

1:24.6299 1:24.5593 1:24.7048 1:24.7365 1:25.1305 1:25.4162 1:25.3264 1:25.4283 1:25.0682 1:25.4892 1:25.7175 1:25.4012 1:25.4145 1:25.1793 1:25.3385 1:24.7946 1:24.2917 1:24.8691 1:25.5024 1:25.4907 1:26.1723 1:25.8168 1:26.4186 1:26.6739 1:26.2998 1:25.7110 1:28.0698 1:26.8731 1:27.4270 1:28.7224 1:27.3319 1:33,9132

2 laps 2 laps Olaps Olaps Olaps

understated. Worse was to come; Neil half-slid off on some oil at turn 10 on lap nine and a graining rear tyre saw him falling back to 19th. But not until a Safety Car appeared again, this time for Mecklem, who had gone off at the sweeper. Seton won the restart, held Tander at arms’length and made it one set all, taking his first race win for two years by 0.74s. It was close-ish, but not that exciting (except for Seton and FTR, obviously). While it was stalemate up front, the battled behind was great. After pressing early, Lowndes ran out of speed by lap eight, Bargs blasting past both he and Murphy. Then Murf made some Motorsport News of his own, slicing up the OUTSIDE of his former co-driver at the Esses on lap 10 to take

fourth. Ingall had been pressing The Rat for sixth on lap seven when he ran off, rejoining 24th. He charged up to McConville but the two tangled at ‘Mo’s Nose’ and ran off and bogged together. The drivers had words and a chat with the stewards later; no action was taken. That left Radisich sixth (with fastest lap) from Bowe, Kelly, Ellery, Richards, Forbes, Johnson, Ba,ird and Skaife. It had been an impressive run from the back; three cars on the opening lap, three more a lap later and inside the top 20 by lap seven But it wasn’t without incident; Reed was cross with Skaife, feeling the red car had punted him off at Repco on lap nine, while Skaife had actually passed Baird, only for the Pirtek car to get back around on the next lap. Still, 14th pays 12 points, which is much better than zero ...

Jones’s dreadful weekend continued, he and Weel spinning at the last corner before resuming.

Race 3(19 laps incl. Safety Car) The Seton for decider. Race 2’sIf start hewas wasready busting to get going in Race 3, and he made it stick to lead Tander into the Esses. Just as well. Bargwanna was away quickly and Murphy, looking, almost ran up his rear at Honda. It was close ... But not as close as what happened next. A little pool of oil was waiting for the field at the last corner and Seton hit it. So did Murphy. In the ruck that followed Bowe leapt after Tander, only for both of them to tangle at the Esses. The world went crazy. Tander, half-bogged, got going while, on the other side of the corner Bowe

-u

edging the Bullet

THE top three runmiers in the Shell Series all had their weekends turned upside down at warying stages. Mark Skaife’s race one incident put him to the back before grabbing third in race three, while Garth Tander and Glenn Seton hit trouble in race three on consecutive corners. The fact that the three are at the top of the pointscore is hardly surprising given their comeback form at Winton, and, while many others made little or no inroads on carving back through the field, the three all salvaged something out of what appeared to be lost weekends. .“The boys worked really hard,” said Skaife. "They did an unbelievable job to get it back out when probably it

shouldn’t have. We've had our slice of luck. I said before the weekend that this wouid be the most dangerous round and the first race certainly proved that! "But I feel disappointed for Seto, Jre did a good job. They’re clearly more competitive than they’ve been." But was the car 100% percent? "Not really, but close," The measure of a champion-to-be is fighting back through adversity and Skaife certainly did that. Driving the car back to the pits on three wheels and a sidewall was a good idea as well. Had he abandoned the car on the track, there was no way it would have made race two. It made it by 30 seconds in the wash-up!. The race three oil slick, which caught out Seton, Murphy et al did.

Two,one, lift-off: Skaife and co had a weekend of ups and downs.

(Photo by Difk Klynsmith)

admittedly, aid Skaife, but the HRT driver put himself in the position to take advantage by virtue of passing half the field in race two. Tander was one who nearly came unstuck on the oil, but the bullet got him one corner later in the form of John Bowe. "He just ran straight into the side of me, ali locked up. Afterwards the car was bent. I just let Craig go and let him have a go at Glenn." "We’ve caught up 36 points on Skaife but it should have been more." Tander also wasn’t impressed with the officials, as were a number of other drivers. "The flag marshals were in fine form letting us know where the oil was ... they were hopeless. It happened three times! There were yellows three flag points before there was a car in danger but when there was oil there were none! "We've lifted our game in terms of our professionalism as competitors and our operations as well. It’s time for the bar to be raised on the other side of the fence." And for Seton it was a case of what may have been. Despite not winning the round, the FTR front man has proved that the team is back on track and that elusive win is close. And, while Skaife seems to have gained the title lead by either overcoming huge adversity (eg. Adelaide) or thumping the opposition (almost everywhere else!), Seton's consistency is what puts him in the ball park. If HRT drops the ball in the enduros, Glenn and FTR will be wiiiting to pick it up. - AARONI NOONA»S moiorspon news

SHELL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES waited, and waited, and waited. After about four minutes the CAT car was hauled out of harm’s way. That gave Bargs the lead from Radisich, Lowndes(who moved through on The Rat at Honda on lap four), Kelly (!), Forbes (!!) and Skaife (!!!). The following lap Bargs ‘Makinened’ over the flipflop at around 210kmh, unsettled the car and left the door open a little. Lowndes stuck his nose in, elbowed Bargwanna a little and grabbed the lead. “I was on the radio to the crew,” Bargs said later. “I said,‘Are they gonna black flag Lowndes? Are they doing it?’” They were thinking about it. The Safety Car gave them pause for thought while Kelly was salvaged from the outside of turn two, the car already stoved in on the left after Richards (caught up in the oil incident) rammed him. At the restart Lowndes jumped away, only to see a black flag with a ‘#1’ next to it. Next lap he served the penalty, rejoining with Seton and Tander (peering through a muddy screen after the Bowe incident), a world-class battle whicJi would surge through to 16th ... The battle for the lead was a beaut, Bargwanna flapping a rear bumper at Radisich, who was monstering the VT on the

And if you thought that Bargs cruised it: Check out how high he got over the kerb at the start of Race 2. (Photo by John Morris/Mpix)

straights. But just like 1999 the Pocket Rocket clung to the lead, holding out the Ford by 0.16s after a tough fight. Behind the pair came a presumably amazed Skaife in third from the Stones, Longhurst towing Baird past Johnson on lap 12. Ingall made it to seventh from stone motherless last, with Crompton welded to his bumper I

in eighth from McLean and Morris. So Bargwanna took the day from Radisich and Seton. The FTR driver closed the points gap to a neat 120, Skaife having scored 44 when a four looked a possibility after the first race. One race meeting can mean 120 points and Ford are getting stronger. Don’t carve any names on the trophies just yet.

Points: Skaife 918, Seton 798, Tander 756,Lowndes 714, Radisich 671, Murphy 563,Ingall 544,Longhurst 529, Johnson 527, Bargwanna, Crompton 487, Larkham 482,Richards 467, Bowe 413, Perkins 377,Baird 373, Kelly 299, Morris 287,Faulkner 279, Jones 229, Weel 212, McDougall 198,Ellery 159, McLean 111, Ashby 105,Poole 103,Forbes 98, McConville 82,Reed 74, Mezera 34, Tratt 22,Donaher 19,Peters 5, Smerdon, Doulman 4, Romano 2, Heath 1. g

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FORMULA HOLDEN

Better Leahey-ed than never lim takes two while Wills takes series lead by AARON NOONAN THE continual letdowns and mechanical failures which have afflicted Tim Leahey’s Formula Holden campaign were wiped away at Winton, the Boost-backed driver dominating the round with pole and two race wins. A new engine faded in practice on Friday and thanks to the sportsmanship ofArthur Abrahams’ NEC team,(who lent the Murphy team their spare engine), Leahey took pole in lml3.5308s. It was his third pole for the season and over four-tenths quicker than Simon Wills, who was looking his nearest threat, despite a broken valve spring mid-session. Christian Murchison was third ahead of Matthew Halliday and Steve Owen(who went for a wild ride straight through the Motorsport News Esses during practice with a holed rear brake line). LeRoy Stevenson, Paul DumbreU and Dale Brede completed the top eight. Race one was all simple sailing for Leahey and Wills but behind the drama was occuring and the championship changing. While Leahey and Wills filed through turn one, Owen nabbed Murchison around the outside and the two began a furious scrap for fourth, even ifit did only last for a handful of comers. Owen spun at Penrite while Murchison speared off into the grass to miss him. The former continued, the latter was bogged and fuming. “I knew we’d either crash or he’d let me by,” said a very disappointed Murchison. “He just carved me up (in the opening comers)and drove with no regard.” Owen said later that he’d been having trouble shifting out ofthird gear and when the gear actually changed, he buzzed the rears and spun. “I would have gone and apologised to him had he not come and given me some ‘advice’,” said Owen. Leahey controlled the race, and, with Murchison scoring no points. Wills settled for second and 15 points which would move him back to the front ofthe title chase. While the duo were in a class of their own,Halliday was proving a match. The Challenge Reynard «2

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. . ... Give me a Boost: Leahey finally nailed down not one win, but two in the Murphy Racing Reynard 92D which (Photo by Dirk Klynsmith) had been ‘boosted’ with the addition of a new sponsor. again was on the podium in third, picking up more points on a consistent basis. DumbreU was fourth and looking more of a threat, with Owen recovering for fifth and Brede a stmggling sixth with a handling imbalance. In race two Leahey again won the start from Wills with DumbreU heading around the outside of Owen. Squeezed across the kerb, DumbreU pulled it back onto the road only to make contact with Owen on the exit, launching Owen’s

Owen carved me up. He cut in front and we hit wheeis and away it went. It couldn't happen to a nicer Moke"

- Paul DumbreU

right rear wheel into orbit. It flew over the heads of trackside photographers and thudded into the bottom (unoccupied) level of the media centre before bouncing back and chasing the shutterbugs again. Thankfully nobody was injured and the field came under the Safety Car. “Owen carved me up. He cut in front and we hit wheels and away it went. It couldn’t happen to a nicer

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bloke,” surmised DumbreU. “He’d mn wide and I actually couldn’t see him,” said Owen. “From the point of impact there are no marks on my car. On that alone, if we went to a CAMS hearing it would have been my comer.” Dumbrell’s car had a bent wishbone and lost its clutch, the latter the reason for a late race spin at Penrite. The ‘Kmart Kid’ eventually finished fifth. Again Leahey and Wills drove nose-to-tail, separated by no more or less than half a second. Leahey was a happy winner and no-one could begmdge him the success. Those NRC engines ain’t half bad either ... Halliday was again third with Stevenson a lonely fourth. Murchison had started from the back and charged to fourth by lap nine until a spin at the old turn one. He spun two more times, dumping loads of time while trying to snake his way back on track. The former points leader was of

Where’s Webber?: Matthew Halliday found the Challenge 94D a real delight in practice ... until he hit the bumps on the infield.

(Photo by James Smith)

the belief that there was a problem with the rear of the car rather than a driver trying too hard. He eventually finished sixth but the margin to Wills is now 17 points - nearly a whole race win - with two rounds to go and 80 points up for grabs. The reversal of form from Leahey had stolen some points away from Wills but the Birrana driver has a healthy lead. “What can I say?” said Leahey. “Simon made me work very hard for the wins. I just didn’t make a mistake though. It’s very satisfying. We always knew we could win, it was just a matter of time.” Points: Wills 172, Murchison 165, Halliday 111, Leahey 94, DumbreU 78, Stevenson 72, Staff 63, Brede 50, Booth 43, Owen 36. moiorinort news

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Austrian trP

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Mwa makes a comeback

Mika Hakkinen, David Coulthard and the McLaren Mercedes team dominated in Austria. The modern era's own 'Silver Arrows'took all before them in a perfect weekend.

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Just like a real rock star: Winner Hakkinen was mobbed by his McLaren team, top, following his dominant A1 -Ring victory - the 16th of his Grand Prix career. While Austria was perfect in most respects, Hakkinen didn’t actually have a great start to the weekend, blowing an engine in practice. The two-time World Champion, left, contemplates what lies ahead. (Photos by Sutton-lmages)

moiorsport news

FORMULA I

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overshadowed in recent races by his team mate Coulthard. taking pole position by nearly four-tenths ot a second.

'Vit,by JOE SAWARD MDKA Hakkinen and David Coulthard gave McLaren a resounding 1-2 victory in Austria after the Ferrari team was taken care of by overeager youngsters behind them. The race was settled at the first comer. No, not by the accident. Hakkinen got there first and so became the McLaren flag-waver for the afternoon. Coulthard cruised home to second.

Qualifying

It may not feel much like summer, but in the airports of Europe it is very clear that the holidays are upon us once again. Terminals and flight paths are clogged but the weather is on holiday somewhere else because across Europe it has been miserable. For Formula 1, mid-July used to mean Silverstone but it is now part of what we call The Schnitzel Season, a string of races in countries where it is safe to be a sheep because they eat only schnitzels or schnitzels. The wine makes you wince, the salads are watery and the race fans all seem to think that wearing red hats and drinking a lot of beer is the cool thing to do (Ed; It’s not?). The FI circus will be schnitzelling for the next six weeks in Austria, Germany and Hungary. Then it will be off to Belgium, which has the red hats and the beer but where the food is a lot better. The European season is almost over for after Spa there will be a quick stop in Monza and then it is off to end the season in the United States, Japan and Malaysia. Austria used to be one of FI’s favourite race meetings but it is 21 July 2000

Unlucky strike: Michael had his points lead slashed to just six after he was put out at the first corner by Zonta. Ferrari’s great hope had time to think during his lonely walk back to the pits, above right. (Photos by Sutton-lmages)

not so nice these days. The track is not the majestic Osterreichring but rather the twiddly A1 Ring. Hotel rooms are fought over, every one but the chosen few have to travel long distances to fi nd rooms, which have bathrooms, and telephones, attached. The scenery is lovely but it is not so nice when everything is obscured in cloud. The weather was a major factor as the teams gathered. It was going to be unsettled all week, but what would it be doing on Saturday and Sunday? Temperatures were an issue because of the question of tyres. Tyres would be key to the result because Feirari and McLaren are so closely matched that the difference can be made by ensuring that the chassis is set up to work with the tyres. Having said that, at Magny-

Corn-s a fortnight ago McLaren and Ferrari went head to head on the same t3rres and it looked like the McLaren is a slightly better car in terms of traction and mechanical grip.

Hakkinen was keen to tell everyone that his problems of late have been technical and that the problem is now solved but somehow it did not ring true. The battle for pole position in Austria was between the two teams and it was something of a surprise to see Hakkinen, a man who has been completely

Hakkinen was keen to tell everyone that his problems of late have been technical and that the problem is now solved but somehow it did not ring true. Hakkinen did, however, admit that he had needed a little holiday to get my act together”. It sounded plausible but one had to take into account the fact that Coulthard’s qualifying session was not as successful as it might have been. “I didn’t get the first comer right,” he admitted. “I lost almost two-tenths by the time I got to turn two and then I had to gain that back, plus a little bit more ^and I didn’t manage to get it right on that crucial lap. I am not too disappointed.” There was a bit of a surprise at Ferrari as well with Schumacher being beaten by Rubens Barrichello. And it was not just in the qualifying session. Barrichello was faster throughout the weekend. Rubens didn’t know continued next page

■.'iV

Almost there: Zonta qualified well, earning a sixth spot on the starting grid for the BAR-Honda team. All the good work almost all came undone in the first corner when he punted Schuey, though... 45

Ausirian

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The pre-quel to this season’s #1 hit comedy, ‘Just Shoot Me’ If the Peugeot engines aren’t taking out the Frosts, it’s the drivers taking each other out. Here, Alesi and Heidfeid come together... No laughing matter: H-HF didn’t gamble in qualifying and lost. Then he lost in the race, a blown engine Frentzen’s downfall. (Photos by Su.tton-lmages)

continued from previous page why... “I like this track and I think I found a really good set-up for the car,” he explained. “I have been calm all weekend. Just like Mika, I also had some good time off last weekend and so I am relaxed and in a good mood. Everything is going right for me at the moment.” Barrichello reckoned that his car had the potential to be on pole position if all had gone well.

QUALIFYING

POS ORivin

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 IS 10

13 19 20 21 22

Milta Hakkinen David Coulthard Rubens Barrichollo Michael Schumacher Jarno Trulli Ricardo Zonta Jacques Villanouve Giancarlo FisichellB Mika Salo Jo.-. VcrUappon Podro Ijiniz Pndro do la Rosa Nick Hcidtelil Aloxondor Wiir? Hoinz-Hflrald Pranlznn Johnny Horbart .lerm Ale.vi Jfjjisni) Burton fl ail Stliiini.'iclinr Mnrc Gono I iinano Bum Gashin Mnzzar.ann

CAR

Austria/Ai|--liiliig

West Mcl.aren-Mercodos West McLaron-Mercedes Marlboro Ferrari Marlboro Forrari B&H Jordan-Mutjon/Hnnda Lucky Strike BAfl-Hondo Lucky .Strike BAR-Honda Mild Seven Bonahon-Supertec Rt;d Bull Saubnr-Potronas Orange Artov/s-Supanec Rod Bull SHubei-Petronas Orange Arrows-Supertec Guuloises Frost-Paiigent Mild Sovon Bnnetton-Suporloc BSH Jordan-Mugon'Honda Jayuar-Cus'.vorlh Gaiiloisub Prost-PoiigDOt Compaq BWM.Willianis FI Cnmpnq RWM.Williamc FI Telulonicn Minnrdi-Futd Jitguar-Cosworth Tnicfonica Minardi Pord

TIMi

1:10.410 1:10.795 1:10.344 1.11.046 1:11.640 1:11.647 1:11.649 1:11.653 1:11.761 1:11.905 1:11.931 1:11.978 1:12.037 1:12.038 1:12.043 1:12.238 1:12.304 1:12.337 1:12.347 1:12.722 1:12.822. 1:13.419

Schumacher spent a lot of time trying to decide whether to go with the harder or softer Bridgestones. In the end he went soft but he found the car handling badly in qualifying trim and had a spin and several big slides. “I am quite a way off pole position and that worries me a little,” he said. “I have not been able to find the right balance between the slow and quick corners and that is very important at this track.” Michael did not seem to think that he would be in a position to challenge on Sunday... “I hope to make up a few places at the start,” he said. Behind the two big teams, there was a lively battle for fifth place but it was six-tenths behind Schumacher. There were four cars covered by a couple of hundredths of a second and seven-tenths covered everyone from fifth to 19th. The men with the edge appeared to be those with Honda engines. Jordan did not have its new version of the car that had been planned but this did not stop Jarno Trulli beating the new development BAEs of Jacques Villeneuve and Ricardo Zonta. Heinz-Harald Frentzen would probably have been up there as well but he took the decision to run with the slightly harder tyres - thinking the car was easier to control - and so was four-tenths slower than Trulli. And that meant 15th... Trulli and Jordan played a

dangerous game at the start of the qualifying session when everyone else rushed out to get a time in the bank. Trulli held fast. It didn’t rain. They were correct and so at the end of the session Trulli had an extra run in hand, using the clear track to good effect. “It was a brave decision but it was the right one,” said Trulli. Ironically, Frentzen used up all his laps in the first half of the session because he thought it would rain and so he was unable top take advantage of the clear track when Trulli did. BAE had Zonta and Villeneuve sixth and seventh on the grid - a good effort. Beating Villeneuve was good for Zonta’s confidence but Jacques felt he should have been faster. Giancarlo Fisichella was eighth in his Benetton but he felt he could have been fifth. But the fact is that Fisichella made a mistake on his first run and then had to back offbecause of a yellow flag on his final try meant he remained in

eighth.

Local hero Alexander Wurz was down in 14th and struggling with the car as he has done all season. The midfield was so tight that a tenth of a second would have put him up three places. With a ninth and 11th for Mika Salo and Pedro Diniz respectively, Sauber finally began to look like a team using Ferrari engines. Both men had spins in the qualifying session but it was a lot better than usual. “This result is very important to

W ^' Don’t push the Button: With rumours about his future at Williams flying, Jensen showed what he is capable of, outqualifying, albeit 18th to 19th, then leading teammate Ralf. Button also brought his car home, taking yet another two points, while Ralf succumbed to brake problems, (Phojos by Sutton-lmages)

us,” said P_pter Sauber. “The C19 has taken a step forward and that is the result of a combination of small things.” The Arrows A21 seemed to suit the track and both drivers did quite well ivith Jos Verstappen 10th and Pedro de la Rosa 12th but de la Rosa in particular felt he could have done better. “I was expecting to improve on my last run and I didn’t,” he said. “The car is fine but the conditions were tricky.” Significantly both Arrows were on the harder tyre compound. Prost was surrounded by rumours about its future but this disguised the fact that the cars were looking a bit better. Nick Heidfeld was 13th despite gearbox troubles, while Jean Alesi, unhappy with his car, was in 17th. Jaguar was in trouble with Eddie Irvine disappearing off to

strong weekend in the Cl9 Sauber, finishing sixth and in the iphoios bySullOfhimngos), points.

Just like Mika, I also had some time off last weekend and so I am relaxed and in a good mood. Everything is going right for me at the momenr -maSalo

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London on Friday night with abdominal pains, which were so severe that he could not continue driving. Luciano Burti, his helmet and overalls being flown in overnight, took his place. Burti was always going to struggle and was not helped by gearbox troubles - 21st on the giid the result. Johnny Herbert was 16th and looking to improve until rear suspension troubles ruined his final run - the suspension problem one of the things that should not really be happening... The Williams team had a weekend from Hell. Ralf Schumacher complained about a lack of grip and never looked quick. Jenson Button overshadowed him throughout but the youngster had an engine problem with just a few minutes to go and had to go to the spare car for a last minute dash. It was no good. Button had looked to be close to a top 10 run before... “It was really annoying,” he commented. The fact that he had outshone Ralf was noted within the team. At the back, split by Burti’s Jaguar was the two Minardis. Marc Gene was ahead of Gaston Mazzacane.

Race(71 laps)

On Simday morning the weather was patchy. It might do anything. In the warm-up Barrichello was fastest'fi-om Coulthard and Hakkinen with Verstappen fourth. Michael Schumacher was fifth. There were signs of(much-needed) improvement fi’om Williams with Ralf Schumacher eighth and Button 11th. The pre-race recognition laps saw drama from FI debutant Burti as his Jaguar suffered a water leak, meaning the Brazilian would start from the pits in the spare. Michael Schumacher also decided that he preferred to race in the spai-e. It didn’t really matter because Michael’s race ended at the first comer... It was not so much one accident but a series of shunt-lets resulting in a fail- old mess - but it was not enough for a red flag. Coulthard made the better start but he was on the dusty inside line on the I'un down to the corner and, unsure how much giip he would have, he braked earlier than Hakkinen. The Finn took the lead. “Mika had the advantage

continued next page 47

Ausirian GP

I WHAT THEY SAID

Highlights of the post-race press conference

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Mika Hakkinen; I am very happy to claim my 16th victory here in Austria. More importantly it is a great result for the whole team with today's 1-2 victory giving us the lead in the Constructor's battle. We are definitely on track and I am back to where I want to be. At the start I had the advantage that 1 was on pole, which meant that I could take a nice and, more importantly, a clean line into the first corner. Now we have seven races to go and clearly everything is open. David Coulthard: Today's result is a great one for the team. I knew frorn the beginning that I vvas carrying more fuel than Mika and inevitably he would be quicker in the opening stages of the race. When I didn't manage to get past him at the start, I decided to look at the big picture, which is the championship, and settle for second place. Rubens Barrichello: I didn't see much of what happened at the start. I made a good one and braked quite late and I saw Michael on my inside. I did not want to make any problems for him as we are team mates both working for Ferrari. But then I was hit by somebody and went wide into the gravel, but I managed to power out of it. I was lucky to survive, I dropped some places but I pushed hard to make them up and passed a few cars. The car was almost undriveable, because the floor was damaged. Then at the pit stop the team made some adjustments to the front wing which gave me back some more downforce, but by then it was too late. Until then I was struggling with a very loose car and was just hoping things would change after the pit stop. Alt in all, I had a great 48

weekend up until the race and I was lucky to finish third. Jacques Villeneuve: I didn't really think I'd get in the points today, so it was a good result. We obviously had a terrible start to the race, but then our pit stop strategy was good we pitted late - and that's what allowed us to finish fourth. I did not have any problems in the race, other than with Heidfeld, who was driving like when he was in Formula 3000, just putting everyone in the grass. When you're running 14th and 15th, that sort of driving is very difficult to accept. All told, though, a good outcome. Jenson Button; If was a very hard race. The first corner was pretty tough to find a way through. I'm not quite sure how I came out of it at the end. It was good to follow Mika Salo and also Johnny Herbert to see what the differences [in the cars] were. The team did a good job with my pit stop. We pitted a bit later than others but, unfortunately, Jacques Villeneuve was able to just pop out of the pits in front of me. My second set of tyres seemed to be a bit more loose on the rear giving me some oversteer, which caused my little excursion, I am happy to get two more points for the team and roll on the next race. Mika Salo: I made a very good start and managed to avoid all the carnage in the first corner. I couldn't believe 1 was third on the first lap! Later on I saw Barrichello's nose and decided to let him go, but the car was fine at that stage. Later I began to get massive oversteer in the high speed corners, and the rear brakes were locking in the slow stuff, so I had to work very hard. But it's good to score my fourth point of the season.

continued from previous page because he was on the outside,” David explained. “Sometimes you have to accept it because you can’t brake as hard and as late on the inside as you can when you’re on the outside line. It’s as simple as that.”

Behind them things were rather more complicated. Where does one begin? Behind them things were rather more complicated. , Where does one begin?

As everyone was approaching the first comer, Diniz found Verstappen’s Arrows in front of him. Pedro must have been looking elsewhere because this seemed to catch him unawares and he braked hugely. The back of the car went away from him and slid across the road into Fisichella’s Benetton, which was minding its own business on the inside. More of these two later. Meanwhile, Tralli and Zonta were so busy trying to outbrake each other that they appeared to forget to brake for the cars in front of them. Jarno slid into the back of Barrichello and Zonta bumped into Schumacher. Rubens bounced onto a kerb, Michael spun. Jarno then ran into Schumacher’s right front wheel. The suspension was broken. Those now arriving had the choice to go right or left - straight

FORMULA f would result in disaster. The two Saubers tried to claim the same piece of road and touched, Salo getting away with it but Diniz spinning. Thus it was Salo who popped out of the carnage in third place. Having started ninth, he was somewhat surprised. “I couldn’t believe it,” he remarked. While the Saubers were tangling, the BAEs were trying to do the same as they both went armuid the outside of the Schumacher-'Trulli roadblock. Jacques got back on the road faster than Eicardo did. Verstappen tried to go-ipside but found that de la Eosa was already there and made contact with Trulli, breaking his front wing. Still, the Arrows emerged fourth and fifth - Verstappen stayed out

for an extra lap hoping the race would be red-flagged, before pitting for repairs. Frentzen and the two Frosts took to the gi-avel and pelted each other with stones, while Ealf Schumacher decided to stay on the road and bumped into some, knocking the front left of the Williams awi-y. Those who started on the right slalomed through the ‘road blocks’. "Wurz had got himself into a bit of a pic£le with slewing chassis everywhere and so the sixth man to exit the first corner was Herbert, who started in 16th! Button followed him through while Banichello and Frentzen were able to rejoin the tarmac before Gene overtook them both. Then came Wurz, Mazzacane, and the two Frosts with Heidfeld ahead ofAlesi, Villeneuve, Burti and Zonta. Trulli and Fisichella obviously thought there would be a red flag and ran off back to the pits but Schumacher did not huny He tried a three-point turn before it became clear to him that his suspension was broken. There was no need for a red flag - the marshals very quick and efficient. The Safety Car was sent out for a little while but as it wasn’t really needed, peeled off after two laps and tha'race was on again... McLaren’s understanding - he who emerges ahead from the fi:^st corner stays ahead unless mechanical trouble inteiwenes -

Irvine misses, Burti debuts EDDIE Irvine pulled out of the Austrian Grand Prix on Friday evening after suffering serious abdominal pains during the days leading up to the event. Although initial suggestions were that the Ulsterman might be suffering from appendicitis, extensive medical examinations at the London Independent Hospital did not confirm this and Irvine was released from hospital, pending further tests this week. Irvine was replaced in Austria by the team's test driver, Luciano Burti, who had very little chance to prepare himself for his FI debut, it was the first time he had run the Jaguar in qualifying trim and his preparations were upset by gearbox problems, which meant that he ended up 21st on the grid, between the two Minardis. Irvine hopes to be back in action at the German GP in fortnight but the fact that there has been no simple explanation of the pain is worrying. - JOE SAWARD

-Ml

continued next page

n n ’K,

Not A1-Ring-gears: de la Rosa stunned everyone by placing the Arrows A21 in third, on merit, but gearbox problems robbed both him and Verstappen of a finish. Tom Walkinshaw and the Arrows management were only left to ponder, below left.

The roar of the cat: Test driver Burti filled in for an ill Eddie Irvine. (Photo by Sutton-lmagoa)

(Photos by Sutlon-lmages)

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;

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Distributed tbroughout Australia by EARl'S PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS AUSTRAUA PTY ITO 68-72 Derby Street (enr Stanley Street), Silverwater, NSW 2128 Australia Phone:(02) 9748 6011 Fax:(02) 9748 6241 Email: earls@ozemail.com.au Call in on our website at www.earls.com.au Teflon U a trade mark of dufJVII 21 M 2000

Austrian continued from previous page

We’re outta here dot com: Half Schumacher retired his Williams shortly after this, while Fisichella’s Benetton was long gone - this, the only time it ‘flew’ during the entire

weekend!

(Photos by Suttori'lmages)

RESULTS AlilSTRIAN

O R JiiiLir -im 7hl laiBS/307.-|lun POS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10 11 12

ORIVIR Hakkinen Coulthard Barrichello Villeneuve Button Salo Herbort Gene DIniz Wurz Burti Mazzacane

RETIREMENTS: Zonta R Schumacher

Heidfeld

Ales! do la Ro.sa Vorstappon frentzen Wl Schumacher Trulli Ficicheila

RACE TIME 1:28:15.818 1:28:28.353 1:28:46.613 70 laps 70 laps 70 laps 70 laps 70 laps 70 laps 70 laps 69 laps 68 laps

reared its head. It happened last year at Spa when Coulthard won and it happened here in Austria. This time Mika won. Coulthard spent the rest of the afternoon pottering around behind the Finn. Towards the end of the race he got bored and set the fastest lap. Everyone knew he could have done more... Hakkinen set a bunch of fastest laps in the early stages and then received a signal from the pits, which said ‘Revs’, followed by another that said ‘Shift Rev’ It means that there is no point in revving the engine to maximum revs,” Hakkinen explained. “At that point I didn’t exactly know whether there was a problem, or whether they were just showing me there was no point in pushing.” Coulthard admitted that he was happy to settle for six points as he is now within six of Schumacher in the World Championship while ll also still two points ahead of Hakkinen. And so McLaren finished first and second. Michael Schumacher was not delighted about his fate but he has often been lucky and this time the

cards fell against him.

“It is a shame for me and the team,” he said. “Ricardo(Zonta) overestimated his own abilities (miaow!)and underestimated his speed but I am sure that there was nothing intentional about his actions. I have made mistakes in Driver 1-A P-3: Barrichel!o ran strong!y al! weekend, running faster than Schuey for most parts. but he still followed the McLarens home. (Photos by Sutton-lmages)

59 laps (ongine) 53 laps Ibrakosl 42 laps laccidemi 42 laps laccidontl 33 laps (gearbox) 15 laps (goarbnx) 5 laps (engine) 1 lap {Occident) 1 lap (accident) 1 lap (accident)

FASTEST UP Oavid Coulthard 1:11.783 on lap 07 DRISERS POINTS: M Schumacher 56, Coulthard 00, Hakkinen 48, Barrir.hollo 36, Fisichello 18, H. Schumacher 14, Villonouve 11. Trulli 6, Frcnteon and Button 5, Salo 4, In/ino 3, Vei'.i.-ippun 2, Zonta and do la Rosa I.

nONSrHUCTOnS points; Mcbircn Mercedes 'A Forrati V, BMW Williams, Benetton 18, BAR Hondo 12, Jordon Mugon-Honda 11, taulior RntirmoTi, Joniior 3, Arrows 3. 50

molorsport news

FORMULA I the past and I am sure he will admit it was his'fault.” With Schumacher gone, Barrichello ended up third - which was where he should have been given the circumstances - but it was not an easy afternoon for him. After the first corner incident he was eighth and his car was damaged. He was quickly able to deal with Button and then Herbert. It took only a few more laps before he was ahead of Salo but there was nothing he could do to make an impression on de la Rosa. “The car was undriveable until I came in for the pit stop,” he said. “Then we were able to make a bit of an adjustment.” In fact by the time of the pit stop Barrichello was third anyway as de la Rosa had disappeared with a gearbox failure. Verstappen’s race was compromised at the first corner. He rejoined and even set the fastest lap at one point, but he went out on lap 14 with what the team described as “a loss of power”. BAR’S hopes pf a big result were rather dented at the first corner. Zonta damaged his car on the back of Schumacher’s. He was then given a 10-second stop-go penalty for causing an avoidable accident and dropped way back. His pit stop was long because he had a new nose fitted and then his efforts came to nothing when his engine blew on lap 58 while running 11th. Villeneuve had a better race although he was a miserable 15th at the end of the first lap. His team decided the best course of action was a late pit stop and Jacques drove the car hard when the road was clear. Stopping while fourth on lap 49, Jacques was out fast enough to keep ahead of Button where he stayed. A good

effort.

Jenson really excelled himself today"

-Sir Frank Williams

Button’s fifth place was a remarkable achievement given the frightful weekend Williams had been having. He weaved through the chaos and found himself having moved from 18th to seventh at the end of the first lap! was When Verstappen pitted he sixth but he could offer no defence to Barrichello and Frentzen. H-HF’s demise came very quickly when oil started leaking at the back of the car and he spun on his own lubricant on lap five. It was an imperfect end to Jordan’s 21 iuly 2000

weekend as Trulli never got beyond the first corner shunt. Frentzen’s departure left Button back in seventh and he then battled hard with Herbert and later the pair caught Salo. Having

the harder tyres meant that

Always looking a winner; David Coulthard’s McLaren looked a winner even coming out of the pits in practice. Backs to the wall: The embattled BAR-Hondas battled hard, Villeneuve finishing in fourth, Zonta dnf-ing after running strong. (Photos by Sutton-lmages) I*

Jenson could go on longer than those could ahead of him and so when he pitte^ on lap 47 he was able to get out ahead of both Herbert and Salo. Button fought back against Villeneuve for the extra spot but concluded it was wiser to finish and pit up two points. “Jenson really excelled himself today,” said Sir Frank Williams. Gerhard Berger called it “an outstanding race”. The same could not be said for Ralf Schumacher. He pitted for repairs after the first lap shunt but then had trouble with his left front brake. Ralf spent eight laps in the pits while the car was fixed and then set off again in a race of his own. After a late spin he decided it was not worth going on... Salo’s sixth was a good effort for Sauber. After the excitement at the first corner Mika dropped to fifth as de la Rosa and Barrichello went by. But he then held off Herbert and Button until the mid race. He had to stop earlier than his rivals and so dropped behind Button and Villeneuve but managed to stay ahead of Herbert all the way to the flag. Diniz’s race was ruined by his first corner spin, followed by a 10second penalty for causing the accident. He fought back but it was a hopeless although he did manage to grab ninth from Wurz on the last lap. Benetton’s race was a misery. Fisichella was out at the start and

« -lit 10^ (

Wurz ended the first lap in 11th. In the middle of the race he had an off and dropped two places. The final laps saw a battle with Gene and Diniz - which is really not where one expects to see a Benetton. Jaguar’s weekend looked to be brightening up when Herbert emerged from the first corner fracas. Pit stop strategy lost him places and so he ended up seventh. It was better than nothing. Luciano Burti did a quite impressive job given the problems he had to overcome and he finished 11th. He will be worth

watching in the future. Minardi got both cars home with Gene eighth and Mazzacane 12th. It was good effort although Mazzacane would have helped his cause if he had paid attention to blue flags and so avoided a 10second stop-go penalty. The Frost story was again a sad one. Faced by a poor grid position Alesi went for a two-stop strategy. Jean did more than his fair share of overtaking but when he came up to pass Heidffeld shortly before his second stop the two collided in very silly fashion. Sad. 81

Michelm in

Tiie iVliGiieHn iian will oome bounding book into FI in 2001 often an absenee of 16 yeans. AMiVI OOOPEi asked vetenan ilichelln motonspont dineeton Plenne Dupasquien why. Motoi-sport IMews: Why did you leave F1 io the 80s? Pierre Dupasquier: Mainly because the company wanted to prove that after success it was able to make other decisions and concentrate on other things. We did it, we can stop doing it, but we may come back. MIM: Why hasn't HViichelin come back before now? PD: Because we didn't feel that it was the time to be in FI again, but lately we had some good opportunities and the right environment that told us it was the right time to come back. MW: How did the company ' come to this decision - was there a lot of discussion? PD: There was a lot of discussion. It has been a long process of evaluating 'does a company like Michelin have to be there or not?' That was the question. And the final decision was taken last year to come in for various reasons - marketing, the position of Michelin in the world, our relationship with car manufacturers who are our partners. MW: What do you gain from being in FI? PD: Another way to ask that is, 'what would you lose not being in FI ?'. That's probably the answer! We have to think that we lose something. 52

MIM: How much of a challenge is it? PD: It is a challenge. When you make a challenge like that, you may lose. So you have to think twice, making sure that in the case of not winning - and we are not alone. We have a car with us, we have a team we have drivers, we have a lot of things - but it's not certain that we will win. In the history of FI even with equal tyres there have been many changes in the last 10 years. And so when you enter you absolutely don't know what will happen and when. So you have been determined to put your name up front, to tell your potential customers that you had the guts to do it, to go for it, and the technology behind you to be successful. MW: Is the most importamt thing to have competition? PD: Doing a good job in mechanical sports is always challenging, even with no competition. When I watch tennis or rugby, I don't understand everything because I'm not a fan. Most of the public don't know if there is competition, they just know you are there. Which is important. MW:Some people might think you've been doing nothing, but obviously you've been busy in sportscar racing, rallies and touring cars ...

French Dane? Tom Kristensen shakes down Michelin’s Williams-BMW, while Pierre Dupasquier get their tyres (Photo by Sutton-lmagBs) ready.

MN: How difficult is it to catch up with grooved tyre technology? PD: The technology you use, the materials, the compounding everything concerning the tyres can be applied. We've made very significant improvements.

PD: Exactly. The point is we improved a lot because of the competition, because of the change of regulations, because of the changes in cars. We had for example to develop competitive and safe tyres for the touring cars - such a little piece of rubber, with SOObhp! It has been very difficult. And the proof is that only Michelin survived that war, almost. We worked a lot and discovered a lot of things. Le Mans is not an easy track either. It's difficult. Last year we won the GT championship in Japan the one team with Michelin. These are things which pushed us to keep thinking, keep asking ourselves some questions.

fVlN: You've got BMW,Jaguar and Toyota. How important was it to get big names like that? PD: It is important to co-operate with a manufacturer, and we've been with them for a long time. With Toyota we won the World Rally Championship, we won GT with them, and naturally they asked us, 'We've decided to go to FI, will you come in with us?' Same for BMW. There is no point for us to hope to be successful, or understand what is going on and develop, if we are not partnered with a competitive, established team at the top. Understanding what's going on, knowing all about aerodynamics, with a decent engine. Which means a top team only there do you get the right engineers, the right knowledge. molorspori news

a'.

FI INSIGHT MN: What would be the ideal number of teams?

(Photo bv

PD: No idea. We are supposed to be in a position to supply our tyres to 60 percent of the teams. We are talking to people who have been friends for a long time. A lot of people are interested. We don't want to have everybody. WIN: So six or seven teams? PD: Why not? WIN: At the moment Ferrari and WIcLaren are winning everything. Are you going to have a chance to win races unless you have one of the top teams? PD: One thing we are sure. History told us that a top team is not a top team forever. So things may change. Will change, I should say - but I don't know when. IVIN: Do you think Williams and Jaguar will now get less co-operation from Bridgestone? PD: I don't know. I guess Bridgestone is fair enough to do the appropriate service for a team like Williams. And they are obliged to anyway, because they must supply all the teams with the same tyres. MN: Do you think Bridgestone are happy to see you in FI? PD: They are quite careful. I read some comments that they have mixed feelings about Michelin, and I understand that. MN: The tyre rules are quite restricting - are you happy with them? PD: What makes us happy is to be free, and do the best we can to solve a problem. We like to do the best possible tyre according to our knowledge to solve the problem. But it's, 'No, no, you can't do that.' It's something which is somehow frustrating." MN: How is your testing going?

Knight Raider

PD: First we worked with a Toyota sportscar from last year, which was interesting. Now we've set up a test team with Williams and Tom Kristensen is driving. We need to understand what is going on, and to work under real conditions and not simulations. It's going well. So

particular car. We feel we are here to learn, we need to understand. We have a lot of things to explore, like constructions. When you try to apply your knowledge to a particular rule you have to take everything you know and put it on the track.

Motorsport News: Why did you decide to switch? Sir Frank Williams: We are aware of Michelin's approach to tyre technology with their sportscar project with BMW,and also touring cars while they did it with us. But also part of the decision was based on the fact that we'd rather not be number three or four in the pecking order at Bridgestone. Michelin will treat us as well as anybody else, and possibly better. You never know.

History toll! us that a top team is not a top team forever. So things may change. Wiii rr change.

MN: Personally, have you missed FI while you have been away? ' PD: No, we had enough things to keep ourselves busy, so it was no problem. It's the most visible thing. But I hate crowds to tell you the truth...

MN:Do you think Michelin can help you close the gap to Ferrari and McLaren? FW:You can never predict that, because we aU have our development programs and it's a question of who’s more efficient and more speedy than the others. Next year we hope to make a useful step forward.

f.s ,

still busy: Audi went 1 -2-3 at Le Mans - but Michelin went 1 -9! {Photo by Sutton-lmages)

Michelin’s Piene Bupasi^uier far we are using Miramas, the BMW test track. Testing has gone very well, and we have begun to understand a lot of things from the new rules in FI. It was very informative. It was very fast and consistent. VVe have a lot of things to discover. Testing teaches you what's evolving, how to adjust your compounding, and so on. MN: How much of challenge is making grooved tyres? PD: It's no challenge. We've made rain tyres for a long time, and intermediate tyres. It's just a question of adjusting to the particular performance of the

Waking up at 4am to reach Brands Hatch like in the past - I have no interest in thatl MN: Finally, what is your best memory of the old days in FI? PD: I would say it was the time we won out first GP in Rio in 1978. Mauro Forghieri and I were both on the wall, to try to slow down Carlos Reutemann. He was leading by a minute. When he finished the race we told him we were afraid that something might break in the car, and we just wanted him to slow down. He said 'I was already so slow 1 couldn't do any slower.' That was a good memory.'

MN:What sort of support can you give the test program this year? FW: We can't. We've just lent some equipment to Michelin, as <■ have BMW. We've given them a few pointers and they are on their way. MN: How strong do you think they will be from the start of next year? FW: I'll be astonished if they are not behind to begin with. It's meant to be difficult. Bridgestones keep getting better and better. This year's tyres are a lot better than last year's tyi’es, so it's going to be quite a challenge to beat them.

And, waiting in the Green Corner...

Motorsport News: Why did you and Jaguar make this decision? Gary Anderson: Michelin have always been strong when they've been doing anything. Basically the philosophy is that if we stay with the same tyre company as Ferrari and McLaren, and we build as good a car as Ferrari and McLaren, we'll still get beaten. So we've got to find an edge somewhere. Instead of following the leader we thought we'd go and do it." 21 laly 2000

MN: What do you think of what they are doing? GA: Very good. I'm very impressed. They have a very good understanding, and they are willing to work. We've got a manufacturers relationship with them, which is good. Going there for my first meeting and seeing where they thought they were, and how they understood where they were, I realised they haven't been asleep.

MN: Do you think people underestimate what Michelin has been doing in categories like sportscars? GA: Yes, they haven't been lying down and going to sleep by any means, A lot has been going on behind the scenes for quite a while. I think they are well advanced to be honest. The way we've put it together will build a good relationship, and that's important, - ADAM COOPER S3

Oran Park

-j.

>wWi^::r.-r -* t

N V.

Hinders ancfOvers: Henderson drove under Morris twice at Oran Park, but Morris’ Bimmer had the goods to re-pass when it counted. (Photo by Dirk Klynsmith)

Paul Morris was, again, simply unstoppable at Oran Park,the three time Australian Super Touring Champion adding to his perfect season. PHIL BRANAGAN was there ...

Calls for Parity; A Holden out-front has been the view we’ve become accustomed to in V8s but it was a novel, and welcome sight in the Super Tourers when Henderson led Morris.

(Photo by Bob Potts)

»4

THE Big White Machine that is Pavil Morris collected two more poles and wins at Oran Park to take his 2000 tally to seven of each from seven races. The Queenslander had to work a little harder than he had so far this year though, rear tyre wear on the BMW sentencing him to follow John Henderson around in both races. But the Holden Vectra was also searching for grip (at the front end)and Morris was able to make it to the front in both races. Third in each was the rapidlyimproving Allan Gurr, while David Auger had to share Independents’ honours for once, Luke Searle taking his first class win of the year after a strong performance from the rear of the grid. Tim Shaw put a delayed arrival behind him to take both Future Tourers classes.

It’s not that qualTl^ng for the BOG Gases Super Touring Championship is boring. Not exactly. It’s just that, Act of God apart, you know who’s going to be on pole position. Well, He didn’t interfere at Oran Park. Morris made sure the wheels were going around, skipped practice and still gi-abbed two pole positions. The Mount Cotton Estates Beemer managed eight laps COMBINED in the sessions, his best laps covered by 0.14s. He had four-tenths up his sleeve in either session and nothing to report, other than

feeling that the track was dirty, partially explaining the loss of 0.8s since 1999. Best of Breed in the non-Morris category was Henderson. With new uprights, brake calipers and pads after his Lakeside problems, the Vectra whirled around in a best of lml2.7112s in the first session and put in another 12.7 in the second. “The best it’s been,” the Sydneysider reported. “It’s a pleasure to drive.” There was one other driver in the 12s. Jamie Miller managed seventh in Q1 but the Pedders Toyota Camry was third fastest in the second stanza, the local picking up an impressive 1.65s over lunch. “Every time we get into the car it seems to go quicker,” he understated. Keep getting into the car, Jamie ... The two blue Ford Mondeos swapped positions in the sessions. Hills third in the first session and Gurr fourth in the second. Hills was happy with his rebuilt engine; the team had nothing to report and was looking forward to finishes on race day. Tony Newman’s Peugeot was on row three for the first race but not with Newman. The kiwi had been ill, losing more than lOkgs in weight while the medicos sought a reason. He tried to drive on Friday but a spin and severe tiredness convinced him to step aside, handing the keys to Dwayne Bewley. The man best known for moiorsRort news

SUPER TOURERS

pushing a Peugeot 405 across the line at Bathurst took things steadily, having had only 15 laps testing in the car at Eastern Creek two years ago and no miles in any race car since he raced a Subaru WRX at Adelaide three months ago. The aim is to finish both races, he reported. “It’s been a long time (since driving a Super Tourer). In the Subaru I’ve learned a few bad l habits.” He also added that stepping from the 405 into the 406 was like “getting off a tractor and into a car . The purple and silver (it’s looks better than it sounds) Honda Accord was eighth in the second session but was sent to the rear of the grid after the first when Jim Cornish left pit lane and returned to the paddock, against the rules. He lost all his times, otherwise he would have been seventh. Aaron McGill jyas next, despite losing laps in the second session when the adjustment shims dropped out of his rear suspension, leaving him with three wheel steering, while Anthony Robson was ninth and 10th, having his first race of the season in the experienced BMW 318i. The consistent Allan Letcher had few problems in the Trinovin Mondeo, while Paul Leabeater brought up the rear after a spin in the first session. Mike Downard had an engine let go in the morning session, the Playboy Bimmer being packed away for the 21 luiv 2000

-t .4

odd

Slip, slop, slap: Beaching the SAE Bimmer cost Luke Searle a finish in the first race, although he rebounded to take fifth in the second. (Photo by Noe! Papalera)

weekend, while Luke Searle was starting from the rear as usual in the Roadchill/SAE 318i after encouragingly topping a Friday practice session. In the Future Tourer class it was Domaschenz who headed both sessions. The immaculate Ray Sidebottom-owned Commodore VS had been re-built around a Bruce Williams Motorsport shell. The former karter was consistent, his best times separated by all of 0.05s. Tim Shaw was second in both sessions after assorted dramas, while Kerry Wade was next in the immaculate Falcon. James Brock was obviously short in time in the new Biante Commodore VT,the neat car weeping oil past a rocker cover in the first session before running a lm20 in the second. But it was there, the first Commodore of any description to appear with the double wishbone fi-ont end, which needs sorting.

Race 1(28 laps inch Safety Car) Raceday dawned a perfect, almost windless winter’s day. Morris skipped the warm-up; Henderson headed the times from Hills and Searle. Come race time, Morris got serious. He led away from the field, pulling a car’s length from Hills, Gurr, Henderson and co, but a chain reaction was starting. Bewley(who made a bad start) got hit by one of the Commodores and knocked Miller; both Super Tourers spun but got going again. Miller made it aroimd the lap but found Brock (with a clutch slipping) on the outside. He moved to the inside and made contact with Leabeater; the right rearsuspension was torn off and the Camry ended up on the track, sitting on its own wheel. Miller

Model car, model driver: James Brock debuted the first VT Future Tourer, complete with double-wishbone front suspension. (Photo by John Moms/Mpix)

was out for the day, while the officials scrambled the Safety Cai’. It was five laps before the mess was cleared and racing restarted. Morris led away but the Mondeos were proving tough for Henderson to crack as he picked off Gurr and threw the kitchen sink at Hills. But the second Ford soon lost fifth gear and Hills was losing ground. allowing Henderson into second at Momo-Recaro on lap 10. Morris was starting to conserve his tyres and the local was through at Konica on lap 12 before Morris hammered past at the last corner to lead two laps later, only for Henderson to get back in front for lap 15 until Morris took it back for good on lap 19. He didn’t get away by much, a half-second being good enough to keep the winning streak alive. As Hills fell back Gunconsolidated in third, while Auger got up to fom-th fi’om Hills and

McGill.

Searle made great progi-ess vmtil beaching the car on lap 18. Robson was slowed when his ignition stai-ted cutting out(the crew fitting a new ECU between races) while Bewley was the final finisher. The 406 lost eight laps in its early incident but went well after that, running mid-14s. In the Futur-e Tourers, Shaw capitalised on a good start to lead all the way, but Domaschenz was poised to challenge until he had a

cootinued next page

Oran Park continued from previous page moment off the Yokohama Bridge on lap 17 and was collected by D’Agostin. The APS car spun, losing about 9s but was quickly

Behind, Searle was on the

back up to speed, taking third on the road before a time penalty put D’Agostin behind him again.

second time around and there were also a few spots of rain just before the formation laps.

Race 2(23 laps)

eighth and kept going, taking the

Morris led away,this time

Indies lead from Auger on lap 17

There were a few cars missing the

Henderson getting a better start to stay with the 320i which wobbled onto the straight at the start of lap three, allowing the FWD car to out-drag it to Coke Corner. Morris held on but three laps later, Henderson had the better grip and took over for seven laps. It was an entertaining battle. While the tyres lasted the Vectra had the high-speed corners covered, but the BMW was gobbling it up in the slow stuff. Morris had a couple of sniffs before making it stick, by which time Gurr was enough of a concern to keep one of Henderson’s eyes on the mirror. And Gurr had a problem of his own - Bewley. After a better start

Talent: Rookie Alan Gurr ran strongly in the second of Hills' Mondeos, qualifying fourth for both races, then finishing on the podium in each.

march. On lap five he was up to

and taking off after Hills, taking fifth outright on the final lap. Afterwards he was a happy camper and deservedly so. Shaw led all the way to take the FTs again, with Domaschenz almost running him down ahead of D’Agostin and Wade, who put on a second-half battle that was very entertaining. McGill’s race ended in dramatic fashion when his seat broke, forcing his foot off the brake pedal and sending the car off the road. Morris has made it seven but' the signs are that the battle behind is getting better.

the 406 stayed on the island and

With Bewley thrown into the

the kiwi chased hard, getting onto

mix in the Pug the second half of

the tail of the Ford by the flag.

the season looks good.

/Qualifying/Results^

Just as talented: Another karting talent to show his wares’ was Jason Domaschenz in the APS Commodore Future Tourer. Domaschenz had a' coming-together with D’Agostin’s Future Tourer in the first race. (Photos by Lynley Reid/John Morris-Mpix)

. ....

Racing’s no Shaw thing

TIM Shaw made it onto the track on Friday but only after one of those against-all-odds stories...

Car owner Bruce Williams put in some long hours to get the car ready after being panel-beaten after its last race and set off for Oran Park. He takes up the story: I left Ballarat at around 10 and should have been at Oran Park in plenty of time for the nine o’clock start. It was all going well on the Hume Highway until a truck with around half a million litres of caustic soda went over near the border. a That cost around two hours but I rang the guys up and told them I was going to be a little late. I got all the way to Moss Vale, about 45 minutes from the track, when there was another truck accident. li So I got detoured around the scene,taking a scenic one-hour drive around Moss Vale and surrounding areas. I didn’t make it there for the morning session but the car was right for the ji afternoon session. Shaw split the sump on the car when he hit a kerb in the second session but was not in so much grief on Sunday though ... - PHIL BRANAGAN 58

Driver Paul Morris John Henderson Peter Hills Alan Gurr Dwayne Bewley David Auger Jamie Miller Aaron McGill Anthony Robson Jason Domaschenz Christian D'Agostin Fm Shaw Allan Letcher Kerry Wade Paul Loabeater James Brock Jim Cornish Luke Searle Garry Holt

Team/Car Mount Cotton Estate BMW 320 Sydney Crane & Transport Holden Vectra Team Mondeo Ford Mondeo Team Mondeo Ford Mondeo TC Motorsport Peugeot 406 Leatherman Alfa Romeo Pedders Suspension Toyota Camry Trinovin Nissan Primera Anthony Robson BMW 318 APD Commodore VS Ted's Cameras Commodore Auto Commodore VS Trinovin Ford Mondeo Kerry Wade Ford Falcon EL Redline Motorsport Hyundai Lantra Biante Models Commodore VT Visit Your Vet Honda Accord SAE/Roadchill BMW 3181 Eastern Creek Karting Commodore VS

Race 1(28 laps incl. Saleiy Car)

Qn Pos Driver Race time F/lap 39:47.3262 1:13.5858 11 1 Morris 39:47.8874 1:13.5616 12 2 Henderson 39:50.6576 1:14.2639 10 3 Gurr 39:53.4155 1:14.7565 14 4 Auger 40:02.7104 1:14.0151 10 5 Hilis 40:14.2556 1:15.3888 15 6 McGill 40:37.6999 1:16.5696 10 7 Shaw Domaschenz 40:41.4721 1:16.2764 24 40:42.2287 1:16.6551 13 9 D'agostin 40:57.0731 1:16.4500 12 10 Letcher 1:17.9229 10 11 Wade 27 laps 1:21.1165 12 12 Holt 25 laps 1:15.7172 14 13 Robson 25 laps 1:14,4238 11 23 laps 14 Bewley 1:15.3368 14 dnf Cornish 19 laps 1:14.3785 16 dnf Searle 17 laps 5:20.7615 1 dnf Brock 1 lap 7:34.5255 1 dnf Leabeater 1 lap dnf Miller 1 lap

Qualifying 1 1:12.3660(1) 1 tl 2.7797(2| 1:13.5040(3) 1:13.8905(4) 1:14.0687 (5) 1:14.4712(6) 1:14.5533(7) 1:14.8901(8) 1:15.0959(9) 1:15.2214(10) 1:15.3007(11) 1:15.3099(12) 1:15.6958(13) 1:17.3202(14) 1:20.3189(15) 1:30.4819(16) No time (18) No time (19) No time (20)

Qualifying 2 1:12.2212(1) 1:12.7112(2), 1:13.5565(5) 1:13.4579(4) 1:13.6840(6) 1:14.1485(7) 1:12.8941 (3) 1:14.8690(9) 1:14.9885(10) 1:15.1719(11) 1:15.6425(12) 1:15.3930(13) 1:15.9620(14) 1:17.2599(15) 1:18.2542(16) 1:20.3081 (17) 1:14.2429(8) No time (19) No time (20)

Race 2(23 laps)

Pos Driver On Race time F/lap 1 Morris 28:42.7058 1:13,1565 12 2 Henderson 28:43.0273 1:13.2507 8 3 Gurr 28:45.1175 1:13.9373 2 4 Bewley 28:45.6705 1:13.9676 5 5 Searle 29:00,2673 1:14.1622 5 6 Hills 29:01.8781 T.13.9332 4 7 Auger 29:01.9550 1:14.6010 10 8 Robson 29:19.8341 1:15.5610 10 9 Shaw 29:43.0730 1:16.5796 4 10 Domaschenz 29:43.8131 1:16.3526 11 11 Letcher 29:47.2064 1:16.0269 5 1:17.9222 7 12 D’agosb'n 22 laps 13 Wade 1:17.9982 6 22 laps 14 Holt 1:18.3898 11 22 laps dnf McGill 1:14.4412 2 12 laps 1:19.0556 2 dnf Leabeater 4 laps

Points: Morris 110, Gurr 60, Auger 58, Henderson 52, Hills 33, Letcher 31, Searle 24, McGill 18, Downard 14, Miller 11, Bewley and Cornish 10, Leabeater 8, Robson 6, Stratton 5, Rolfo 3, Fitzgerald 2, Future Tourers: Shaw 72, D'Agostin 49, Webb 30, Domaschenz 22, Hayward and Wade 18, Brock 18, Holt 12, Sidebottom 10.

Super Tourers Rd 7 praii Park Racewaii motorsport oews

a hip ioJi iuiOL to. tko hatuleM H(aCatf»Uuc FI G'uuut The first Malaysian Grand Prix was a huge success - you can be there for this year's race on October 22 - courtesy of Motorsport News and Premium Sports Tours. Just correctly answer the questions in this, the last, and next issue of Motorsport News and you will be in the final draw to win: Return economy airfares f(^two from your capital city to Kuala Lumpur Tic 4 nights accommodation in a superior hotel, including all breakfasts, transfers from airport & track General admission race tickets, FI welcome party Monogrammed polo shirt and cap HOW TO ENTER Just write the answers to the three questions (the answer to each one will be found in the issue in which the question is asked) on the back of an envelope and post it to us to arrive by 5 pm on Monday August 14. Good luck!

QUESTIOiy 2 Wkkk(kimfi in Bee Au^him Ff Gftmd Pfdx nm a ikkd uM kia tdkmml m iap 331 (Answer is in this issue.)

mmm niotonpaif news

For further information on Malaysian GP packages and other motor sport tours, contact; Premium Sport Tours, Suite 4, 75 Mitcham Road Donvale Vic 3111. Ph 03 9874 7999 Freecall *1800 335 971 Fax: 03 9874 7599 Email: premium@sporttours.com.au Website; wvwv.sporttours.com.au (Licence no 3i9i4 acn os9 i37 978) CONDITIONS OF ENTRY 1. Competition doses and entries must tje received by 5 pm Monday August 14 and will be drawn at 10am on Tuesday August 15, 2000. 2 The winner will be drawn from all correct entries received 3. Entrants must correctly answer three questions, each published in consecutive issues of Australasian Motorsport News,commondng issue 183. July 7. 4. Entries must be on the back of an envelope, with entrant's contact details (induding phone). 5. The pnze is: airline travel and accommodation for two (lour niglils BAB), general admis sion for two, transfers etc to the 2000 Malaysian FI Grand Prix, FI welcoming party, monogrammed polo shirt and cap. 6. A first prize winner under the age of 18 must bo accompanied by an adult on the prize trip. 7, The judges decision is final. 8. Winner will be notified by phone and/or mail, and the result will be published in the August 18 edition of Motorsport News. 9 Staff of Motorsport News. Premium Sports Tours, their commerdal partners and families are ineligible to enter. 10. The prc.-noter of the competition is Australasian Motorsport News Ply Ltd

Hally of New Zealand

Finn

testic Report by JON THOMSON in AUCKLAND MARCUS Gronholm has taken a stunning victory on the Rally of New Zealand, giving Peugeot its second win from its last two starts in this rally, its previous start giving Timo Salonen a win back in 1986. Gronholm took the win by just 11 seconds from Ford’s Colin McRae, who led a trifecta of Fords home in the wake of a flock of major retirements on the final leg. The three day rally was run in atrocious weather and saw some impressive performances,including Gronholm’s win. Ford’s strong result and Hyimdai’s first pointsscoring outing for its Agcent. The rally was a disaster for Subaru, Richard Bums and Juha Kankkunen retiring at virtually the same time on Day 3. Four-time ARC Champion Possum Bourne took local honours with a great sixth, but Subaru team-mate Cody Crocker was out ofluck. After taking second in Group N he was disqualified for running illegal brake parts. On Day 1 Francois Delecour grabbed the early advantage, taking fastest time on the opening stage south of Auckland, while Bums started to suffer the penalty of being first car on the road,the World Championship leader cleaning the road for the cars behind. The Peugeots of Delecour and Gronholm appeared to be wellsuited to the conditions as they raced to an early 1-2. Finn Toni Gardemeister was the first to go out of the rally after a massive crash at more than 180 kmh. The SEAT driver and his co driver were okay but the car was totally destroyed. Delecour and Gronholm continued to extend their advantage over Burns and McRae, The Finn was almost 44 seconds S8

Norse Lion: Gronholm was dazzling in Peugeot’s'206 WRC car. Which bank? Sainz was third for Ford. Watch that grassy bank, Carlos ... (Photo by Sutton-lmages)

ahead of McRae and 56 seconds ahead of Bums after four stages. Tommi Makinen had a less than happy mn, with continuing differential problems causing oversteer. He also picked the wrong Michelin tyre for the trio of stages two. three and four. It was the young Norwegian Better Solberg who had starred for Ford, doubtless benefiting from his lowly position on the road, but still posting some fantastic times to be up into third by midway through the opening leg. Crocker was amazing everyone with a tremendous performance in his Subaru Australia Group N Impreza,leading the production car class and holding down 13th outright ahead of several WRC level drivers,including Freddy Loix and Toshi Arai. Bourne was up to 11th outright and first Kiwi. The surprise packets were the Hyundais - both in the top 10, with Kenneth Eriksson ahead of Alister McRae.

»/

/ /C

Gronholm lost second place to Solberg late in the day, slotting into third place at the end of the day, with Sainz in fourth ahead of Kankkunen in fifth. McRae was back in sixth with Eriksson holding seventh ahead of Burns. Mitsubishi’s engineers battled all day to resolve the oversteer problems which had plagued Makinen and Loix, finally tracing it to the rear springs not allowing full travel. Day two started in the worst possible way for Peugeot, losing Delecour with a broken gearbox on the second stage of the day. Solberg took a 20 second road penalty after stage one, handing the lead to Gronholm. It was Bums who starred over

the first part of the day, winning all four stages and blasting through from eighth to second on damp roads. Crocker had struck problems with tyre choice, particularly on the 59 km Parahi -Ararua stage, where he gave away time to Group N series leader Manfred Stohl of Germany and Oman’s Hamed A1

Waihibi.

Just as McRae and Burns had Gronholm in their sights, the weather intervened, with a downpour sweeping their opportunity away. Burns’ attack faltered when he spun on stage 13, dropping him behind McRae into third place as the cars wrapped up the final two stages of the day and headed south

moiorsport news

WORLD RALLY Crocker DQ’d

THE surprise exclusion of Cody Crocker after a charging drive to second place in Group N in New Zealand was the talk of the

Together again: Craig Vincent rejoined Possum Bourne to finish sixth.

(Photo by Sutlon-lmages)

But fastest was the other McRae,Alister recording Hyundai’s first WRC stage win. But the team’s delight was short lived; no sooner had he won the stage than the transmission transfer box seized and McRae ' was out.

back to Auckland for the pare ferme. Sainz battled throughout the day with Kankkunen and came out ahead to grab fourth. Mitsubishi’s fortunes took another knock when the Ralliart Team decided to retire Loix’ car after stage 14, unable to discover the cause of the intermittent operation of the transmission software. Auriol’s run came to an end when he had a big accident in the SEAT near the end of stage 16. Gronholm started the final leg with a 23 second advantage over McRae. If the second day was full of changes, the final day would prove even more dramatic. Gronholm had the disadvantage of‘sweeping’ the stages for his pursuers and dropped seven seconds to McRae and three to Burns on the opening 31km test.

Makinen was another casualty, the Mitsubishi losing about 90 seconds with an off, after which he retired in service, most believing the "World Champion had refused to go on because the car was so unpredictable. Any thoughts that the final set of six short stages - two stages each run twice - would present no great challenge were rapidly dispelled. McRae was the first in trouble, spinning/the Focus and experiencing gear selection problems on stage 19. ^ Burns was still attacking taking fastest ahead of Gronholm on 19 while McRae answered back to take fastest on stage 20. However it all went horribly wrong for Subaru during the transport stage between stage 20 and 21. Burns’Impreza refused to start at the stage end and Kankkunen’s car also failed to start at exactly the same place, both cars retiring on the spot. Burns had seen his third place points wiped out, and Subaru had lost an important six manufacturers’ points. And it wasn’t easy going for

Results 1 2 3 4 G 6

Marcus Gronholm/Time Rautianon Colin McRao/Nicky Grist Carlos Sainz/Luis Moya Pelter Solborn,FPhillip Mills Konnoth Eriksson/Stcltan Parmandor Possum Sourne/Craig Vincent

Pougeot?,06WRC Ford Focus Ford Focus Ford Focus Hyundai Accent WRC Subaru WRC 99

3hr45minl3.4 3hr45min27,9 3hr46min46.3 3hr48minl4.7 3hr48min26.4 3hr52min08.0

Drivers Chanipionshiii points: Burns 38, Gronholm 34, McRao 30, Sain? 27, Makinen 23, Kankkunen 18, Solborg 6. Manulocturors Championship points: Subaru 58, Ford 57, Pougoot 41, Mitsubishi 29, Skoda 8, SEAT 7, Hyundai 4.

WRG Rouiifl 8 Rally of New Zealand 21 July 2000

rally on Sunday night. The 28-year-old Subaru driver was excluded for running knock off springs on the car’s brake calipers. The springs, which stop the brake pads from suffering knock-off from the discs, are not legal in Group N Subarus, and this resulted in Crocker’s tremendous efforts behind the wheel coming to naught. Some believe that a

Gronholm, who very nearly rolled the Peugeot within sight of the finish of stage 19. disgruntled Gustavo Trelles Despite McRae taking fastest on may have tipped the stage 22, he still trailed Gronholm scrutineers to check the by 16.7 seconds and, with the task Subaru for added tweaks. of chasing down a second per But such a small irregularity kilometre, the Scot decided to play does not take away from for safe points and settle for Crocker’s terrific drive which second. It was a brilliant win by the proved he has what it takes to Finn who now moves up into go all the way to the top. second in the World Championship,just four points off Burns heading to his home event next month in Finland. Gronholm was still counting his EXPECT an announcement blessings after his narrow escape in the next few weeks which on 19. should see the Rally of New “I thought we would roll for sure Zealand shuffled out of the but it seemed to fall the right way cold and damp mid-winter and we made it,” said Gronholm. “It was an amazing rally and one ' July date to a spring date in October. which could have gone any way. All of the WRC teams would We had a lot of luck I think,” he said. like to see the move which McRae was philosophical about would also enable the cars to his second placing. be shipped directly to Australia “The gearbox problem cost us a for the WA event in November, bit - I was careful because it would a considerable improvement on have been easy to break it the current schedule which altogether. But the spin was the sees many of the cars siting in problem, I knew we had lost the the Antipodes for three months. battle as soon as we started spinning,” he said. Sainz contributed valuable points with his third-placed Ford RALLY Australia management and is now a single point behind was thick on the ground in Subaru in the Manufacturers’ Auckland, with Clerk of Course senes. Garry Connelly, WA Tourism Solberg in the third Focus CEO Shane Crockett and gi’abbed fourth place ahead of Eventscorp staff legal officer Eriksson in fifth, the best result Claire Power all in NZ. yet for the Hyundai Accent WRC. The WA contingent were A tremendous sixth place went apparently engaged in intense to Bourne, who overcame contractual discussions with new suspension problems on day two to ISC owner Dave Richards to firm take top Asia Pacific honours. Stohi’s Mitsubishi crossed the up the WA Government’s hold on line seven seconds clear of Crocker Rally Australia. An announcement from after a titanic battle for the group N class win. However Crocker was Eventsorp and ISC about a long excluded in post race scrutiny term contract with WA for Rally when the car was found to have Australia is expected any day illegal springs in the brake calipers now, effectively locking out any to prevent brake knock-off. bid from Melbourne to take Rally The Championship is delicately Australia to the East Coast. poised heading to the demanding - JON THOMSON Rally Finland next month.

The Hunt for NZ October?

Westies in NZ

Carlos and Colin: | trouble brewing? I CARLOS Sainz and team mate Colin McRae are at war j within the Ford rally team, with the Spaniard tipped to leave the British-based MSport team in 2001. It was an uncomfortable preRally New Zealand press conference for the Ford team,. with Sainz denying any rift ' between him and McRae, despite i many obvious signs. Even M-Sport team director Malcolm Wilson looked uncomfortable when his two drivers came under intense ; questioning about the break down j of relations. Sainz and McRae have apparently not been on speaking terms since team orders were ' imposed at the Acropolis in Greece, allowing McRae to win the rally. The tv/o did not work together during recce in NZ, instead running separate pace noting operations and it was clear that Sainz is far happier chatting with members of rival WRC teams from Peugeot and SEAT than with his Ford team-mates. This, plus the fact that Ford has drafted reigning British Champ Taipo Laukkanen into the team for I the upcoming Rally of Finland, point to the fact that Sainz may be on the move in 2001. The ‘Super Team’ which Wilson put together at Ford is clearly not working and it is clear that there is ! a clash of egos, with both drivers believing that they are number one while McRae appears to be getting preferential treatment. Speculation is rife that Sainz , will join Marcus Gronholm at n Peugeot next year or be drafted alongside Didier Auriol into the SEAT operation where the Spaniard's legendary development and motivational skills are desperately needed. -JON THOMSON

r IF-L

I'm oft? Sainz and Wilson. 60

Two Corollas In '01 and out In '02? by JON THOMSON TOYOTA’S AustraHan RaUy Championship program is likely to continue in 2001 but may not survive until 2002,according to Toyota Motorsport Manager Peter Evans. The Toyota motorsport boss is hoping that ARCOM switches the ARC rules to outlaw active differentials and drive systems for the 2001 season to enable Neal Bates’team to continue to compete relatively economically and to help encourage other makers into the top class. Evans beUeves passive rules will be the only way the Australia championship wO be able to sustain WRCar class rules in the future as costs and pressures escalate., ‘Tt is the logical thing to do and I hope logic prevails,” said Evans. T beheve we(Ibyota) will be around in Australian rallying next year, but I have doubts about 2002,” he added. Speculation is that the Bates team is close to securing a big sponsor which may allow the team to run a second car in 2001, perhaps for Neal’s twin brother Rick. It is believed that there is a TTE Corolla sitting in storage in Perth and that Bates’ operation has been endeavoming to secure the funds to buy the car and inm it in the ARC. Despite the fact that Tbyota is no longer supporting a factory WRC campaign, vrith the Corolla Tbyota teams are continuing to campaign in European and Middle East Championship, mostly with passive differential cars.

Senior Hooligan?

4 Senior member: Despite an arrest Senior had a good week. (Photo by Sullon-lmages)

ALISTER McRae’s co driver Dave Senior was lucky to be in New Zealand for the Hyundai team after some recent strife during the European Soccer Championships in Belgium. Senior, a keen football enthusiast, travelled across the channel to watch ,the Euro 2000 tournament, only to strike problems at the Belgian border where police arrested him.

The always cool Senior was apprehended because one of Britain’s most wanted soccer hooligans is known as David Senior. The police who didn’t have a photo of the Dave ‘the soccer hooligan’ Senior simply decided to shackle up Dave ‘rally’ Senior. The mix up was eventually sorted out and he was able to go on and watch the English team beat Germany. -JON THOMSON motorsport news

RAUY NEWS

Changes for Rally Oz RALLY Australia has revised its pioneering Superspecial stage at Langley Park in an attempt to provide better entertainment and faster competition than in previous years. The stage will be all-gravel for the first time and the long start and finish straight will be on the city grandstand side of the park, much closer to the spectators and facilities. “We have always continued to make changes to maintain the rally’s as amongst the best in the world,” said Clerk of Course Garry Connelly. “We have developed a motorsport amphitheatre with two giant video screens to help biing the action closer when the cars are at the extremities of the track.” “There is a long-straight close to the bulk of the

crowd where the start and high-speed flying finish take place, which will increase the spectacle and the action,” he added. 'Two giant video screens will be used to illustrate the action from the track extremities. Slower parts of the track will be re-profiled to increase speeds, as the cars run side-by-side against the clock under improved floodhghting. The Superspecial stage will be used to start the rally on Thursday, November 9 and will host the last stage of the first leg on Friday November 10 and the second leg on Saturday November 11. The flood-lit evening sessions promises to attract more than 20,000 fans on each night. -JON THOMSON

Tapio for Ford TAPIO Laukkanen,the British Rally Champion, has turned down a Mitsubishi offer to drive a works-run Ford Focus on next month’s Rally Finland. It will be the first time that F2 expert Laukkanen has competed in a World Rally Car and a good result could set him on the path to stardom,just as good results on home soil have launched many of his fellow Finns, including Tommi Makinen, onto the international stage. “I have to do some serious work in a Focus before the rally, because it’s important that I understand how the car works before the event starts. I know the Finnish roads well, so it’s the best rally for me on which to drive a Focus for the first time,” Laukkanen said.

Gravel Playstation

In with the new: Look for plenty of changes on the banks of the Swan River this year.

MOTORSPORT IL^AH^tyrs^nces reducefti

AN interesting sight in New Zealand was that of some prominent rally photographers pointing digital cameras at the gravel on the kiwi rally roads. The photography was being undertaken for Sony and its new World Rally game, which is due to be released early next year for use with the new Playstation 2 console. It seems the game is going to be so realistic that even the texture and look of the gravel will be factored in along with landmarks and road cambers. Be prepared for a real rally experience. -JON THOMSON

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Earthquake coming: Nothing shakes Eastern Creek like a 5000- even if V8 Supercars are quicker around our modern racetracks ... (Photo by James Smith)

Let's get ready to rumble by BRIAN REED

INTEREST is running high in the next appearance for classic 1970s and ’80s Formula 5000s. The Sandown Historic meeting to be held on October 22-23 is to feature a‘Tasman Challenge’for cars that ran back in the later years of the fabulous Tasman Series. Already there is keen interest from several New Zealand competitors and, according to VHRR spokesman Noel Robson, an impressive grid of 15 Formula 5000s is anticipated. Cars such as Lola, Begg, McRae GMl and Elfin are expected to make up the field, with a number of‘name’ drivers from the era taking part. Unlike past Sandown Historic meetings there are no plans for demonstration runs the entire program will be devoted to racing, with the promise of practice and three races for all competitors. Some competitors will be able to double enter their cars in suitable events. Supplementry regulations are currently being formulated and will be posted out with entry forms as soon as they are available. And good news is that entry fees will not increase (except for GST,of course!) 62

VALE-Ian Jones(1955-2000) ONE of Victoria's keenest and most knowledgeable Group N competitors,Ian Jones has been tragically killed in a road smash in Melbourne. Ian had just delivered his son to a social gathering in Langwarrin on Saturday evening,July 8 and the accident occuired within earshot of his son and friends who i-ushed to the scene. Vice President ofthe VHRR,Ian Tate said “Ian Jones was passionate about Historic motor sport and in particular about (iroup N. He had been a committee member ofthe Group N Association

as well as newsletter editor, and only last week had been voted in as Vice President,” he said. For the past 25 years Tate had prepared engines for Ian Jones, who began his motor racing career driving a Tbrana XU-1 purchased fi'om Jason Bargwanna's father Alf in Sydney. After competing in the Road Registered category, Jones moved into Historic events and was one ofthe most forceful and capable XU-1 drivers in Group N. Ian bad inherited his love of motorsport from his father, who had competed in a number of Round Australia Trials behind the

wheel ofa Ford CustomJine. Sadly his dad passed away three years ago almost to the day ofIan's fateful a-ash. Jones had just sold his Tbrana XU-1 and had spent Saturday afternoon introducing the new owner from W.A. to several Group N competitors fi'om Melbounie hoping to convince them to go to W.A. for some forthcoming Historic events. His infectious nature and his passion for the sport will be sorely missed in Historic touiing car circles, and we extend our sincere sympathies to Ian's wife, family and fiiends.

VALE-Pat Hawthorn (1928- 2000) PAT Hawthorn had a passion for all things mechanical - especially if they moved fast. After growing up on Coolamon, NSW,Pat moved to Victoria in 1957 where he operated a service station in Clayton for more than 25 years. It was during the late fifties that he developed a love of competition diiving and competed in many hillclimbs around Victoria, holding the over 3-litre record at several venues. One of his ambitions which he fulfiled around 1960 was to become involved in T'ace track ownership, and Pat Hawthorn became one of the oiiginal owners of Calder Motor Raceway. He involved himself in most aspects of the fledgling circuit including design, pi-omotion and

management, yet still found time to compete. In the early sixties, Pat Hawthorn acquired the ex-Lex Davison front engined Aston Martin racing car, one of only four such cars in the world, before turning his attention to speed boat racing. In 1966 he won the coveted ‘Sporting Globe’ Award for the most competitive and fairest driver of the year. His last speed boat,‘Black Knight’ brought him fuiiher success when he drove it to victory in the Australian unlimited hydroplane titles in South Australia. In more recent times, Pat Hawthorn directed his attention to another form of speed when he became a pi-omoter of quarter horse racing in Victoi-ia. To his family and friends we extend sincere condolences. moloriport news

0 ■'

Sheene till shines

EVEN if he is, er, over 40, Barry Sheene showed he can still impress the punters on two wheels. The flying Queenslander missed Network Ten's MotoGP telecast of the British GP and threw his leg over his BOOcc Norton last weekend at Donington. Sheene qualified second and came away from the damp weekend with a DNF and a second place to add to his record. They were the top guys in the world," he said on his return. It went well. I was running second in the first race when the engine went and was in front in the other event when I braked for the final corner and Steve Tomes got past me. Still, I got the fastest lap and, against the guys I was racing, I was// pleased with the way I went. ' The two-time world champion returned to the mike last Sunday for Winton's SCS round. - PHIL BRANAGAN

■ '

SPhoto by Suttofi-lmages

Stirling’s streets

WHILE everyone was getting excited over David Coulthard’s Monaco Grand Prix win, some of the world’s tastiest historic cars also took to the famous streets of the municipality. Main attraction, as usual, was Stirling Moss, who hauled a 1953 Frazer Nash around the streets. 21 luly 2008

Briefly Historic THE Hillclimb Panel has granted Rob Roy round six of the 2000 Victorian Hillclimb Championship and that meeting is scheduled for August 20. As a consequence, round two of the Club Challenge Competition originally listed for September 10 has now been cancelled. This will be the first time in 42 years that Rob Roy has staged a championship round - as one ardent Rob Roy enthusiast said, "It's back to the home of hillclimbing!’ ■ The date for next year's Phillip Island Classic has been changed yet again! Over the past few years it has had to fit in around other more illustrious events such as the Australian FI Grand Prix, yet in spite of its unsettled status, the VHRR's Phillip Island Classic has become one of the most popular and successful of all Historic meetings. With the Qantas AGP now to be held on March 4-5, 2001 the Phillip Island meet is again on the move. Stay tuned!

Brits rock Rob Roy

HISTORICS

The famed British driver may never have won the World Championship for Drivers but he has got three wins (in six years) on the streets on Monte Carlo on his CV, taking the prized event in 1956 (in a Maserati), 1960 (Lotus Climax) and ’61 (Lotus Climax). - PHIL BRANAGAN

TEDS winter cold didn't deter 75 keen competitors who took part in the all-British day at,. Rob Roy hillclimb on June 18. Fastest time of day went to the ex-John Smallman MG B GTV8 well driven by Michael Wood. Another car to impress was the Penrite Oils air-cooled Cooper driven by Mark D5rmond. The exJohn Crouch car is fitted with an llOOcc V-twin and ran faultlessly throughout the day, making all the right noises.

Results Class 1 (up to 1300cc) Lindsay Siebler (Morris Cooper S) Class 2 (1301-leOOcc) Norman Gowers (Morris Mini) Class 3 (1601 -ZOOOcc) Peter Kyriakidis (Ford Escort RS1600) Class 4 (2001 -3000cc) Peter Riseborough (MGB) Class 5 (OveraOOOcc) Michael Wood (MG B GTV8) Class 6 (Clubman Sports) John Felder (Caterham Super?) Class 7 (Pre '60 Racing) Mark Dymond (Cooper Mk V) Fastest Lady Driver Marg Sherry (Morris Cooper)

26.28s 25.90s 24.42s 26.33s 23.90s 27.51s 26.23s 28.42s

■ The air-cooled fraternity is continuing to thrive, and looks like being invited back for "a mobile display" (otherwise known as "brisk laps") of Eastern Creek at the Classic Motorcycle meeting on August 20. Another meeting they have their eye on is the Historic hillclimb to be held at Rob Roy in November - a most appropriate venue for this type of car. Whilst it is a CAMS authorised event, the organisers will not insist on Historic logbooks, and only a Level 2 licence will be required. ■ Entry forms are already out for the RACV Great Australian Rally to be held on Sunday, January 21, 2001. The reason is that participants are asked to register ASAP as the field will be limited to 500 veteran, vintage, classic and commercial cars and motorcycles. Also, if you register prior to November 1 you will be in the draw for a dinner for two at the RACV Club in Melbourne. A number of Historic motor racing competitors trotted out their other cars for this year's rally, and it will be a great spectacle seeing 500 oldtimers leaving Melbourne Town Hall for the Mornington Peninsula, finishing at the Mornington Racecourse for public display and judging. There will also be the local market and live entertainment to attract visitors and occupy the participants as they apply yet another coat of polish to their vehicles. For enquiries and entry forms contact the rally organiser, Frank Douglas on (03) 9739 4829, fax 9739 6324. -BRIAN REED 63

The domination factor: John Force s

success is credited with being responsible for Funny Car’s revival.; {Photo by David Octas/«wtkI)

Funny Business rr would make an interesting study to try and determine why Top Fuel is ciurently suffering from a lack of entries on the

NHRA tour while Funny Car is thriving. Of course, it goes without saying that this is a cyclical scenario, with the situation hound to he reversed

at some time in the probably not-too-distant future. Maybe we can get a government grant

Virtually banished from Australia, drag racing’s most spectacular class - the firebelching nitro Funny Car-is in the midst of an incredible resurgence in the US. JON ASHER takes a look at the who, whys and wheres of the exciting fuel coupe category.

consistent 4.8s.

And then Scotty Caimon began to get his act together, Whit Bazemore started miming hard in Chuck Etchells’Kpndall Camaro, tuner Wayne D,upuy had the Nitro Fish entry hauling and even Bob

Car is thriving, and nothing more. We have no concrete, scientific

evidence but, by the same token, we doubt if anyone can mount a truly effective argument to dispute our point of view. Fimny Car is thriving because of one man. One team, really: John

Gilbertson was competitive, thanks to timer Paul Smith.

All of that and much more

suddenly made Furmy Car

somewhat reminiscent of “The

event winner has dominated the

class over the last few years, it’s actually understandable. Between Force and teammate

Tony Pedregon they’ve won 26 races and finished as the runners-up at

We will, we will Rock you: Jerry Toliver’s WWF-backed, two-car operation exemplifies what Funny Cars are all about - colourful, loud, fast, scary, intimidating and exciting.

another 19 over the last three

seasons, not including 2000. During

that span Force won three championships and Pedregon finished second twice. Now, that’s domination!

So, you’re sitting there and it suddenly occurs to you that you’ve

got a spare couple of million US dollars that you’d like to squander, er, SPEND on drag racing, but you can’t decide which professional class you’d like to compete in. Pro Stock is obviously out - not enough noise or excitement for you - so that leaves Top Fuel or Funny Car. 6(

Prudhomme’s US Ibbacco Camaro,

Ace’ McCuUoch and suddenly that Camaro was flying, running

down with ‘munbers’, bear in mind that what we’re going to suggest here is a theory about why Funny

points champ and 86-time national

services of John Stewart in the

process. Suddenly the WWF team wasn’t just a pair of also-rans; it was a dynamic duo capable of winning every time out. At mid-1999 you thought Ron Capps was a joke in Don but then “the Snake’ hired Ed ‘the

to make our study... Now, before you start pinning us

Force’s. And, the way the nine-time

He’d hired Dale Armstrong as his crew chief and had enough money to, not only fiilly fund Epler’s ride, but to secure him the tuning

If you’ve checked the stats like

we just did, it would appear - and appearances can obviously be deceiving - that Frmny Car might be the ‘easier’ class. Heck, there’s ONLY John Force to beat, so the odds are that if you can qualify and stay on the opposite side of the ladder from him, you might have a. chance of making the final round. Sure, anything can, and will happen in drag racing, but by your calculations. Funny Car is the place to be.

Ah, but you haven’t done enough

Hulk’. Passive and easily controlled one second, it became a nightmare of nitro-breathing, race-winning superdrivers the next. Maybe Top Fuel would have been easier...

Despite the recent efforts of

(Photo by David Ostaszewski)

Toliver’s team. Force remains the

research, and your decision might ultimately prove not only costly, but personally humiliating as one driver after another makes you wish you’d never heard the word

most popular competitor in drag

racing. To meet Force is to quickly understand his popularity. In 10 seconds he can make you feel like a

‘nitromethane’. What you forgot about are the intangibles, the

can make you feel like a member of the family!

teams that can step up tomorrow morning and clean your clock. Competitors like Jerry Toliver and teammate Jim Epler didn’t just suddenly appear. If you’d done your

With Force, what you see and hear is what you get. 'The guy is

homework you would have noticed that as 1999 was winding down,

ToUver’s fortunes were heading up.

Ufe-long friend. In 10 MINUTES he

exactly what he appears to be, a former tmck driver who’s made

good doing the only thing he’s ever loved doing, driving a racecar. Sure, over the years his dealings in the corporate world have changed iBotorsport news

DRAG RACING considerably, because he’s learmed how to handle the pressure the hard way by dealing with it one day at a time. But, he feels no pressure fr'om the fans, who adore him, win or lose.

A measure of Force’s popularity can be taken by carefully watching the gi-andstands during a race. If Force loses in the first round, count on a significant number of fans getting up fr-om their seats to head

■ home. Force is whom they paid to see, and when he’s gone, so are they. Oh, sm-e, some of those folks are merely exiting the seats to get close to the fr-ont of the inevitable

line of fans awaiting a Force autogi-aph, but the point is that without him in the show, many ●don’t consider the show worth

watching. With resei-ved seats going for US$65 at many venues,

that’s really saying something about the guy.

the latest Pontiac Firebird shells, at least fi-om an appearance

standpoint. But that’s apparently not good enough for the other racers. “Because of that [Mustang] we’ve

got the thu-d worst car out there,”

now _

drag racing foi-wai'd while keeping the costs of competing dowm.

the smaller tracks and some of the racers. Almost all match race

Daimler Chrysler, NHRA could have prevailed, just as NASCAR

appearances are two-run affairs, with larger tracks like Ohio’s Norwalk Raceway Park hiring in six cars for specid events like their annual Night Under Fire, which attracted a reported 30,000-plus

simply ignores the protests fr-om Detroit, and continues to do what’s

best for the sport — keeping the competition on an even keel.

Another ‘problem’ with the

said Camaro owner Etchells recentiy.

Mustang is that Ford has all of its

“Force’s car is clearly the most

di-ag racing dollai-s squarely in the

aerodynamic thing out here, with the Pontiacs second - the Camaros

hke ours are definitely behind them. “I don’t know where that leaves

Force "basket,’ while GM and DC continue to suppoi-t a number of teams, in a number of classes. No

one forces them to spread the

someone like Dean Skuza (Dodge

wealth around, but without OEM

Avenger), but I sure worddn’t want

dollars a lot of Funny Car teams

to be in his shoes. He’s got to make a helluva lot more power than

simply couldn’t make it.

anyone else just to keep up, much

racecar bodies and aluminum work, that’s a US$25,000-plus investment

less win.”

Even if GM ‘00!/ provides free PER CAR. It’s the same for the few

Dunn's statement of a

his bits reheai-sed it would be one

few years hack; "Real

on his own. 'That’s a huirdred grand

thing, but when he taUcs - and oh, how that man can talk - you find

men drive Funny Cars"

pei-mits, and he gives the greatest interview in aU of motorspoifs. Were

yomself hanging on his eveiy word.

Let’s, simpliiy Force’s popularity

this way: It isn’t about performance or even winning. It’s about the man himself. Like, when Force climbed out of his smouldering wi-eck at Memphis some years ago and shouted that he’d seen Elvis at 1000

feet, he wasn’t kidding. If Force said he saw Elvis, HE SAW ELVIS, and the fans believed him then, and now. But, all is not well with the Force

camp, and the problem isn’t with super-tuners Austin Coil or Bei-nie Fedderly or with teammate Tony

Pedregon and tuner John Medlen. The ‘problem’ is Force’s new Mustang body, a shell outrageous enough in appearance to have aroused the ire of -virtually every other Funny Car competitor.

“It’s legal,” Coil has said. “If it didn’t pass tech, we couldn’t run it.

No manor what anyone says, we'll go with Mike

investment in bodies and tinwork

he wouldn’t have to spend on other hai'dware or help.

'There was reportedly going to be a It was proposed last season that the NHRA follow NASCAR’s plan and impound each type of car following a race and then take them to a wind tunnel for side-by-side evaluation. The thinking was that the teams would individually tweak their cars dm-ing the testing so that each would ultimately produce close to the same coefficient of drag numbers. In theory, that might have resulted in an alteration of the rules, again like NASCAR does things, so

that there might have been running changes during the season. It was a

good plan, but NHRA shot it down... One official is reported to have said “You can’t learn anything fi-om (wind tunnel testing),” pro-ving that ha-ving a closed mind isn’t the best of modes to be in for an

organisation dedicated to moving

conference call to discuss the

Mustang ‘question’ between Fred Simmonds of GM, Lou Patane of DC

and "Ibrn Compton of NHRA, but we believe it hasn’t yet taken place. That multi-cars teams are

becoming mandatory is obvious, so we won’t beat that drum to death.

The evidence is there in plain sight, with Force and Pedregon being the perfect example.

Then consider how the WWF team

has performed this season since Jim Epler became a full time player. Now check out the two-car CSK team of Del Worsham and Frarrk

Pedregon - they’re also rrmning better than ever before.

It won’t be a surprise to us if a number of the single car operations decide to pool their information in an effort to compete. In the last

couple of years match racing has again become popular with both

Even if there’d been howls of protest from General Motors and

Dodge teams out there. Cei-tainly Skuza could keep racing without Mopar’s support, but let’s just say that he had to make a $100,000

What makes Force Svork’ is that he remains as accessible as time

so as long as (NHRA) says it’s okay Nvith them, we’re going for it,” Obwously the result of extensive wind tunnel development work, the car is actually not as radical as ai'e

spectators at $30 each. Match races generate cash flow and, with souvenir sales unrestricted, prices often fall to market value of between $14 and $18 - somewhat less than the same

gear goes for in the NHRA pricecontr-olled national events.

They also provide tuners an

opportunity to test, and while the fans are almost always content with low five second times, the occasional 4.90 or even 4.80 usually has the

teams rejoicing, as it means they’ve ‘found something’. Of course, this season 4.8s ets are

somewhat more difficult to come by because of the 90% nitro rule, but

we could be wi-ong about that. One thing for sure is that the 90% rule has become a double-edged sword. Former Etchells/Bazemore crew

chief'Tim Richards recently

explained his engines look a lot better internally because of the rule, and there’s definitely less

breakage. That’s the upside. The downside is that to remain

competitive teams need more

personnel and parts than ever before because, with the 75-minute "between rounds’ rule, it’s no longer feasible to make major changes to the drivetrain. The bigger teams

simply swap complete powerplants and go through their used engines during the following week. But why are we telling you aU of this? Sadly, Funny Car racing seems to be a thing of the past in Australia, and that’s truly unfortunate. No matter what

anyone says, we’ll go with Mike Drum’s statement of a few years back: “Real men drive Funny Cars!” Amen to that!

Second and third bests: Chuck Etchells says his 2000 Camaro, below, and Al Hofmann’s 2000 Pontiac, left, are

behind the Musfang when it comes to aerodynamics. (Photos by David Ostaszewski)

Rrst in, not really best dressed... RHONDA Hartman-Smith (Fram Autolite Top Fuel dragster) and Bruce Sarver (e-moola.com Funny Car) both made qualifying passes good enough to qualify in the Showdown fields on elapsed time, but could not bump seeded cars out of the show, and remained out of the show when eliminations began. Hartman-Smith's 4,812 had bettered eventual winner Cory McClenathan's 4.840 and Mike . Dunn's troubled 6.53 in Joe Amato's dragster, but with only three spots open to non-national event-winning drivers, her time fell short of the 4.809 of Paul Romine, the 4.740 of David Grubnic and the 4.722 of Bob Vandergriff Jr. Sarver had recorded the fourth best time of all of the Funny cars on the property but, with only two open spots, his 4.952 just missed making the cut, leaving him behind the number one 4.882 effort of Ron Capps and the third best 4.949 of Scotty Cannon. n Car Craft Magazine has announced the preliminary balloting results in what will comprise the 33rd Annual All-Star Team. John Force is again favoured to win the Funny Car category, but he has been joined as a finalist by Ron Capps,'Jerry Toliver and Tony Pedregon. As with Force, the flopper crew chiefs are expected to be Austin Coil and Bernie Federley, although the pair will face stiff opposition from Dale Armstrong, Ed McCulloch and John Medlen. Top Fuel Driver finalists are Kenny Bernstein, Larry Dixon, Gary Scelzi and Tony Schumacher while the crew chiefs include Lee Beard, Alan Johnson, Dick LaHaie and Dan Olsen. Jeg Coughlin and Warren Johnson are expected to be the two to watch in the Pro Stock category, although Mark Pawuk and Ron Krisher are also finalists. The Car Craft Magazine All-Star Team will be announced at the annual gala function held on the Saturday night of the US Nationals in Indianapolis. n Two-time Winston Top Fuel Champion Gary Scelzi has finished second in the ESPN.com second quarter 'Driver of the Year' ballot. Scelzi, who currently leads the NHRA points, trailed reigning Champ Car champion and Indy 500 winner Juan Montoya. Scelzi received two first place votes and was the only driver, other than Montoya, to receive more than one first place vote. - DAVID OSTASZEWSKI 66

No Bull Cory McClenathan takes annual Top Fuel v Funny Car Showdown

“WE didn’t have the fastest car Matt Hines earned his third to be marching away for a win, but on the block, but we were very began to spin the tires at half straight NHRA All-Star win, consistent,” Winston No Bull track and the ‘Mac Attack’ was overcoming a holeshot to score a able to take a win. Showdown winner Cory. final round victory over Antron McClenathan said after scoring Capps advanced into the final Brown, 7.33/184 to 7.36/178. his first victory since last round with wins over Mike Dunn, Hines’Eagle One Suzuki year’s US Nationals. driving for a recovering Joe Amato, dominated the event, posting McClenathan and the Joe Gibbsvictories over the Harley of Connie Frank Pedregon, Bob Vandergriff owned MBNA team have struggled Jr, and Tony Schumacher. Cohen, and the Suzukis of Ron all season long and it was In a Pro Stock final round battle Ayers and rival Angelle Seeling. consistency, which would be the The Pro Stock Truck final was a of mail-order parts companies, reason behind 90% of the victories Troy Coughlin and his deg’s repeat for the sixth time this year in most races, that allowed him to Oldsmobile defeated the Summit as Bob Panella Jr and Randy first reach, then down Ron Capps’ Racing Pontiac of Mark Pawuk, Daniels squared off to see who US Tobacco Camaro iritthe final of 7.08/194 to 7.10/194. would claim the $15,000 winners the no-points, special Top Fuel share in the final. Coughlin, who has had eight verses.Funny Car nitro spectacular. runner-up finishes in his career Having had to watch Daniels “Winning Indy last year was without a victory, pocketed a cool run away to the win five previous awesome, but this is the best race I $50,000 for his first major event times, Panella turned the tables, ever had. It’s been a long, tough win, albeit a non-points earning taking a start-line advantage and one. year for all of us. When you are extending it to a 7.69/175 to used to winning races and “It feels great to finally get a 7.70/175 victory. contending for championships, a Panella and Daniels have win,” Coughlin said. “The monkey season like we’ve had so far is hard accounted for eight wins in nine on my back was getting bigger to stomach. This race saved our events this season. than me. This feels as good as I season... it’s that big.” - DAVID OSTASZEWSKI thought it would.” Capps left first in the final- the floppers given a .280 advantage on the tree - but the menacing black Chev hazed the tyres- and McClenathan went past to take a 4.85sec/291mph to 5.16/275 win. For his win, McClenathan was on the end of a US$200,000 payday. Despite being even at six-all following the opening round, the dragsters enjoyed a 13-nine record against the Funny Cars and have re-claimed bragging rights in the event following John Force’s domination last year. “I really wanted to win this one for the Top Fuel guys... to get our title back,” said McClenathan.“We really had to knock off some heavy hitters today.” Taking Mo Bull from everyone: Cory McClenathan took the McClenathan defeated a tyre US$200,000 prizemoney at the Showdown, the win the first for the MBNA smoking Whit Bazemore in the team since last year’s US Nationals. opening round, then scored victories over Force and Bob Mail order bridesmaid no more: After nine final round appearances but Gilbertson before stopping the no wins to his credit. Troy Coughlin finally broke through for his tirst major Winston dragster of Gary Scelzi in victory - Jeggie Jr’s big brother downing Mark Pawuk in the fina. the semi final. Scelzi had appeared (Photos oy

Oslaszewski)

&RAG RACING

Sydney Protests

n Anna Michael, currently the sponsorship manager at Calder Park Raceway, has been appointed as venue manager at Adelaide International Raceway. Michael has been with the Jane organisation for the past two years and has been involved with event planning and management. n Dean Skuza topped a six car field of NHRA Funny Car regulars at the 'Night Under Fire' Funny Car Spectacular at the IHRA-sanctioned Norwalk Raceway Park a fortnight ago, downing the tyre-smoking Oakley Camaro of Scotty Cannon, 4.99/251 to a tyre-smoking 10.43. Skuza also top qualified with his Mateo Tools-sponsored Avenger and claimed a bonus US$50,000 from rival tool company Mac Tools for running the track's first four second Funny Car et - a 4.916/304. n Recently sacked e-moola.com Funny Car crew chief Rob Flynn has found a home in Del Worsham's pit area. Flynn has been hired to assist Chuck Worsham in tuning Dei's CSK Pontiac flopper.

Listen up and listen good, Bob: Sydney s drag racing community turned out in force for a public meeting last week. Alan Jones, right, received a standing ovation following his stirring speech.

n NHRA Pro Stock racer John Nobile has split from the Dodge Motorsports program following a reasonably unsuccessful first half of the 2000 NHRA season. Nobile announced with Dodge that his team has suspended its involvement in Mopar's on-going hemi engine development program for the time being as the new engine couldn't meet his needs to be more competitive. Darrell Alderman, Scott Geoffrion and Larry Morgan will continue to run the new-generation hemis in their Dodge Avengers.

(Photos by John Bosher]

by JOHN BOSHER SYDNEY’S frustrated drag racing community tinned out in force at a public meeting at the Blacktown Community Centre last week to express their anger at the state government’s poor handling of the proposal to approve the use ofland for the constinction of a stand-alone drag racing facility -the Western Sydney Motorplex - a^acent to Eastern Creek. In excess of 1500 people packed the hall to hear various speakers give their views on the proposal and the government’s handling of the issue. Sydney radio personality Alan Jones accused the government of lying and being dishonest in its dealings with WSM proponents Jim Read and David Cook and called for the government to immediately release the required land, at no expense to the taxpayer, as had been promised to Read and

Cook, and Jones by various government representatives. Jones informed those in attendance of his numerous dealings with the government over the matter and warned Premier Bob Carr “the ghost of Jeff Keimett is still heard following his refusal to listen to the communit/’. Following the conclusion to his speech, Jones received a twominute standing ovation. Federal Sport and Tourism Minister, Jackie Kelly, also told the meeting that, while she wasn’t in a position to interfere in the matter, she believed the WSM should proceed. “Fm a great behever in the ‘Field of Dreams’concept- build it and they will come,” Kelly said. Kelly also told the crowd that she was appaled that no representatives from the government, or their departments, were present at the meeting. Organiser Cook told Motorsport News that he was thrilled with the turnout and the proceedings ofthe

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public meeting. “It was all positive for drag racing and its supporting industi'y and we are very pleased with the meeting,” Cook said. “A resolution put forward by Alan Jones was passed demanding the government release the land, at no expense to the taxpayer, as promised, and that’s what we will be taking to Bob Carr and his ministers. “Our voice was heard and will be heard. We won’t be going away until we have a satisfactoiy outcome.”

n Top Sportsman racer Larry Bowen died of an apparent heart attack while competing at an IHRA Holley Sportsman Drag Racing Series round at Lone Star Raceway in Sealy, Texas last weekend. Bowen’s car made a safe run but then failed to slow at the finish, continuing off the end of the track before coming to a halt in the safety sand pit. Officials said there was no visual damage to the car, Bowen being pronounced dead of a heart attack by a local hospital. - STAFF/DAVE OSTASZEWSKI

2000 musmu drag racing series championship points at JULY 17 Wimistoini Top Fuel 1029 I Gary Sceizi 990 2Tony Schumacher 919 3 Larry Dixon 806 4 Joe Amato 805 5 Kenny Bernstein 614 6 Cory McClenathan 584 7 Doug Kalitta 504 8 Doug Herbert 483 9 Don Lampus 458 10 Bob Vandergriff

Winston Funny Car 1008 I Jerry Tolive 935 2 John Force 795 3 Tony Pedregon 787 4 Ron Capps 667 5 Jim Epier 583 6 Scotty Cannon 571 7 Dean Skuza 554 8 Whit Bazemore 539 9 Del Worsham 506 i 0 A! Hofmann

Wonston Pro Stock 1027 I Jeg Coughlin 2 Ron KHsher 838 783 3 Warren Johnson 70 1 4 Kurt Johnson 667 5 Troy Coughlin 6 Mark Pawuk 666 563 7 Jim Yatos 8 Richie Stevens 549 9Tom Martino 535 10 Bruce Alien 5 10 67

(

Bitter-sweet Stewart win by MARTIN D CLARK UNDER cloudy skies and heavy hearts at New Hampshire,it seemed ironic that one of Kenny Irwin’s most bitter rivals,,Tony Stewart, would come away a winner. Stewart claimed his third victory of the season when the race, affected by two rain delays, would finish 27 leaps shy of the scheduled 300 tours - the win an anticlimax for the 100,000-plus fans, most feeling robbed of seeing any form of real racing and without a proper ending. Stewart dedicated the win to Irwin in his as always frank manor. ‘We had our ups and downs, but it was two guys pushing each other hard,” Stewart said. That pushing came to head at Martinsville last year where the two ex-midget rivals bumped several times and turned each

other around, resulting in Stewart hitting the wall and then throwing his shoe heat shields at Irwin’s Yates Ford - the incident costing a US$5,000 fine from NASCAR. “We weren’t always on the best of terms but we always brought out the best in each othey It [Ii-win’s death in a practice accident] was a wake up call,” he said. “I was late getting started this morning because I didn’t want to miss aU the tributes to Kenny on TV. I still think I’m going to walk around the comer and find him there.” Stewart led 156 of the 273 laps run, but Rusty Wallace again looked to be the one to beat-the pole sitter for the seventh time this season losing his chance of victory when he, along with nine others, decided to pit out of sequence,finding himself in 15th at the finish. Wallace led the first tour, fellow front row man John Andretti the second and then local hero Ricky Craven led before Stewart took up

Ins and Outs: Stewart stayed out and stayed ahead of the pack while Rudd, above, was one of many who pitted and lost positions.

the running. The first rain delay and third caution came at lap 131 and from then on Stewart do^^inated. The fuel situation was not cut and dried, with Stewart needing to top up with just 20 laps to run. But, with the caution airing for a shower, some teams pitted a little too early while Stewart remained on track. Stewart got lucky... “I don’t feel guilty winning the race this way, we had the dominant car,” Stewart said. It seemed ironic that it was at the same race last year Stewart did the same, although then he ran out of fuel with just three tours remaining, den5dng the Joe Gibbs Racing rookie of his first career Winston Cup victory. Last fall’s New Hampshire winner, Joe Nemechek,came a worthy second after running in the top 10 most of the day, with Mark Martin good for third and Jerry Nadeau the best of the Hendrick trio in fourth. Points leader Bobby Labonte was the late race benefactor when others pitted, gaining a mass of positions to finish ninth. If Jarrett had pitted.

NASCAR in fine form Ganassi Dodges NASCAR

VETERAN crew chiefs Jimmy Fennig and Gary DeHart felt the full force of NASCAR's wrath when they were fined US$25,000 and $7,000 respectively following the running of the New Hampshire race. Fennig, crew chief for Mark Martin's Valvoline/Roush Racing Ford Taurus, copped his wrap over the knuckles when Martin's #6 was found to be under the specified height requirement. Labonte head wrench, DeHart, was fined for improperly attached weight, the ballast being discovered after Labonte's car struck the wall hard within the first handful of laps in the race. - MARTIN D CLARK 68

CHIP Ganassi’s first full season foray into Winston Cup in 2001 could come with DaimlerChrysler backing with the SABCO team, co-owned by Ganassi and Felix Sabates, one very distinct possibility of moving to Dodge. DC's vice president of motor sports, Lou Patane, said recently that up to three more teams could be added to the Dodge line-up, which currently features seven cars from three teams. Ganassi only recently purchased a stake in the Sabates team, with many predicting the Indy 500 and four-time CART series-winning teanh owner to take full control of SABCO sometime in the near future. - MARTIN D CLARK

(Photos by Sutton-lmages)

Dale Earnhardt, who finished sixth, would have been leading the Winston Cup points now -the Intimidator’ still looking good for his eighth title though. Results; Stewart (Pontiac) 103.145 mph, Nemechek (Chevy), Martin (Ford), Nadeau (Chevy), J Gordon (Chevy), Earnhardt (Chevy), Jarrett (Ford), Mayfield (Ford), B Labonte (Pontiac), Rudd (Ford). Points; B Labonte 2670, Earnhardt 2625, Jarrett 2602, W Burton 2456, J Stewart 2455, Martin 2453, J Burton 2449, Rudd 2406, R Wallace 2377,J Gordon 2348.

Spence

NASCAR Someone call a doctor, quick...

APPROPRiAtELY,a dpuble i rambQ'i!7 shone brightly over New Hampshire’s turn t^ee on Friiiayj July'7,just hours after the turn claimed the life ofEenuy IrwiUi It had been ' just eight weeks to the day since Adam Petty was also Idlled in the same spot. Irwin,30, was killed when his #42 SARCO Monte Carlo hit the wall hard,the car then flipping onto its side, riding the waU and then landing on its roof before coming to a stop -r early talk centring the cause On a stuck throttle, the same problem that was believed to had led to Petty’s accident. Rescue workers took 15 minutes to cut the injured Irwin from the car,the former USAC and current day Winston Cup star then being transported to a nearby hospital ^ the announcement of his death from “multiple injiiries” coming three hours later. U It’s just unbelievable,” was the reaction of stunned team co-owner Felix Sabates.“I

by MARTIN D CLARK

Hard and tough: Kenny Itwin (ciark) thought he had a tremendous future in front of him and I loved him. He wasjust fun to be around.” Tony Stewart, who IrWin had an intense lOve/hate relationship with Irwin, was saddened by his rival’s passing.

lashes out

Of all the people i ever raced With,Kenny was the hardest and tougkest racer,” he said,‘ôu knew you had to be on your game,because if you weren’t, he was going to 99 beat you. Irwin won the USAC Midget series ôkie ofthe Year’title in 1993,winning the series in ’96. He moved to the NASCAR Truck series full-time in’97also winnii^ the ôMe ofthe Year’title. Having made his Winston CUp debutin ’97 in four starts for the now-defunct David Blair Motorsports team,irwm won that series’‘Rookie of the Year’title in 1998 while

NEVER one to hold back his feelings, Jimmy Spencer has again spoken out publicly about his team’s plight and lack of success, but team owner Travis Carter isn’t too wori’ied. (i He’s going through what I call his annual venting season,” said Carter recently. “Things kind of build up inside of him and it’s like a little volcano where the top starts to’crack and things 99 pop off. Spencer was quite straightforward in his comments though,aiming them directly at his team owner.

> . r.

Check your own oil... Jimmy Spencer has upset some within his team after again recently speaking out about their performance. (Photo courtesy Ford Media)

“We’re not having the success we need,it’s not that we’re not trying,” he said. “I think we’ve got a good team,I just think we don’t have the leadership we need. Ijust don’t think Travis has grabbed the bull by the horns and decided to wrestle it to the gi'ound.” Spencer’s comments are nothing new to Carter, the Winston Cup racer having vented his feelings last season,later apologising. “He rattles the team people a lot more than he rattles me,” said Carter. a Some of the things Jimmy says publicly I don’t care to do that, those are team issues that need to be dealt with 99 internally. Surprising to many, though,is Carter’s commitment to Spencer,the two staying together to “fight the good fight”. Carter hasn’t ignored Spencer’s comments totally, having switched engine

driving the infamous #28 Ford for Robert Yates Racing ^ Irwin having replaced Emie Irvan. His best career finish came at RYR,finishing third in the Daytona 500 in ’99. This season Irwin moved to the SABCO outfit, partnering two-time Daytona 500 Sterling Marlin in the #42 Bell South Chevrolet.

Contrary to a Daytona hospital’s examination which found nothing wrong with Terry Labonte following an accident during the recent Pepsi 400, a hospital close to home discovered the two-time Winston Cup champion was suffering from a broken bone below his knee and severely bruised ribs. The ‘ice Man' fronted at New Hampshire on crutches but took his place on the grid. He was taken out in an incident with Chad Little on the seventh lap. n New Hampshire race winner Tony Stewart had a near miss when the plane on which he was travelling to a personal appearance in Evansville, Indiana on made an emergency landing in Asheville, North Carolina. Neither Stewart, nor the pilot, was injured when the twin-engined plane made its landing, Stewart describing the incident as "no big deal". n Kyle Petty sat out the New Hampshire event, the site where his son, Adam, was killed recently. Petty Enterprises truck driver Steve Grissom subbed for the grieving Petty, Grissom needing a provisional to make the field.

- MARTIN D CLARK

again

suppliers this season from ProMotor to Robert Yates. But, while other teams have seen marked improvements when they have shifted to the Winston Cup-winning team’s motors, Carter’s team hasn’t a fifth at Talladega the best result to date, with no other finish better than 15th. “I know the potential this team has,” a frustrated Spencer said. “The guys building the cars are doing a good job and our motors are awesome,it’s just this whole team needs to figure out what needs to be done to i-un better. “This really isn’t good enough for a team of this calibre.” Tough times aside, Carter continues to support his driver... “Spencer goes through this about once a year normally during the summer,I guess it’s the hot weather that brings it out of him,” quipped Carter.

H SABCO team driver Sterling Marlin also took a provisional slot in the New Hampshire field, Marlin and the #40 team electing to miss qualifying after the tragic death of teammate Kenny Irwin. n Chad Little won't be seen in the #97 John Deere Ford Taurus next season with Little and the Roush Racing camp not extending their contract. Roush will continue to run the #97, with John Deere support, although who will actually get to take the spot behind the wheel isn't quite clear yet. n Petty will have a new crew chief when the series heads to Pocono for the second time this season, with veteran Fred Graves signing on with the Hot Wheels team as head wrench. Graves was with Robbie Gordon's team prior, also having worked with son Andy on Terry Labonte's car in '98 and as crew chief for the championship-winning Ron Hornaday Earnhardt-owned truck team. n Hot shot USAC driver Ryan Newman looks set to drive for a new Busch Grand National team in 2001 being formed by Penske Racing South. Newman will run four ARCA Supercar events this year before moving to the NASCAR division two next year. - MARTIN D CLARK 89

c't.' l

Wanless the big winner Wings ^nd Wanless: Todd Wanless took home a lot of silver¬ ware from the MSAQ Presentation Dinner, the highlight being the QSSS. (Photo bv Tony Loxlev)

TODD Wanless was the big winner when the Modlified Sprintcar Association of Queensland held their annual TVophy Presentation Dinner at Brisbane’s Mercure Hotel on July 8. Wanless collected the spoils from his victory in the inaugural Performance Wholesale Queensland Sprintcm Summer Shootout and also clinched the Heat Pointscore and the Club Championship to complete a whitewash ofthe 19992000 racing season. The QSSS was an overwhelming

success in every way and those drivers who took part in the series were recognised and rewarded for their participation through the distribution of over $10,000 from the series prize fund. In fact, even 13th placed Adam McKenzie, a genuine low budget operator, took home more than $1000 in cash and products and services! Dean McComb overcame a series of setbacks throughout the season to finish second in the QSSS points chase, with Cameron Gessner third overall ahead of Drew Kruck

and Darrell Hodges. John Kelly, who was forced to miss the final round following his nasty Speedcar crash, finished in sixth spot ahead of Sherri Schaffer, Gary Brazier, Tony Bridge, Brock Dean and Ricky Mitchell, with Clem Hoffman and McKenzie completing the line-up. Series organiser Bill Mann, who was presented with an Appreciation Award for his commitment to Sprintcar racing, is close to finalising the 2000/2001 shootout series which will include more events, some minor changes

to the format and extensive television coverage via the C7 Sport network on Optus Vision. In the Club Championship chase, Wanless finished ahead of team mate Kelly, with Hodges, State Champ Tony Bridge, McComb and Mitchell rounding out the top six. The Heat Race pointscore saw Hodges clinch a runner-up finish behind Wanless, with Kelly third on this occasion. McKenzie was presented with an Encouragement Award and Hoffman was voted Moat Improved Driver. It was no surprise to see the Lawrence-Brazier Racing Team awarded the Best Presented Car and Crew trophy. The Rookie of the Year award went to Peter Thorley, while Steve Mortimer was judged a worthy recipient of the O’Brien Aluminium Wings Award following a couple of spectacular moments during the season. In recognition of their sponsorship support throughout the season Motorsport News,The House ofAuto Styling, Capalaba 4x4 Wreckers, Metrocom, O’Brien Aluminium, Kelly Winfield Racing, Metalcorp, Truckmasters,ABC Spare Parts, 131-SHOP and Premier Auto Parts were presented with Appreciation Awards, as well as outgoing Archei-field Speedway promoter Bill Goode. John Dean and Rick Hodges, both of whom have worked tirelessly for over 20 years as competitors, team owners and in a variety of administrative roles, were honoured with Life Membership to the MSAQ in acknowledgment of their commitment to Sprintcar racing in Queensland. - CHMIS METCALF

Mod Prod re-vote

FOLLOWING the last general meeting of the Victorian Modified Production Association (VMPA), whei-e it was voted not to change the racing format,it has since been realised that some votes had been east by people who were ineligible to vote. A special general meeting was called and a 70

re-vote was taken which saw the VMPA’s previous decision overturned. The ensuing change to the racing format is only a minor change and is aimed at increasing the entertainment value for the paying spectators. For all rounds of the highly successful VMPA Antenna Specialist series, drivers will still compete in

two heats apiece and in addition there will be a trophy dash for the top ten cars which will be inverted. There will also be a B-Main and a C-Main if required. Prize money will be the same as last season with the exception that it will be paid back to 18th place. Total prize money will be $26,400 over seven rounds. The series kicks off at

Wangaratta on December 2 followed by Swan Hill (December 30), Simpson (TBA), Rosedale(March 3), Redline(March 10), Hamilton(March 24)and Rushworth (April 28), which will be the fiercely contested Di Watson Memorial. Other major events include the Victorian Championship at Bendigo

on January 19/20, the NSW Title at Wagga on February 24 and the Australian Title cun-ently scheduled for Lismore at Easter (April 14-15). The Northern Territory Title is pencilled in for Arunga Park (Alice Springs)on November 3/4 (still to be confirmed) with a $10,000 prize pool. - BRETT SWANSON motorsport nows

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SPEEDWAY

ICiilser does It without Dad

NASCAR star for Late Models

WHILE Mark Kinser raced for several car owners during his first 11 years with the Pennzoil World of Outlaws Series, his father, Karl, was usually around to lend a helping hand. Kinser, who won series championships in 1996 and 1999 with Karl as his car owner and crew chief, proved he could win without his father in attendance last week at Cedar Lake Speedway. Kinser passed Dale Blaney late in lap 22 on his way to claiming the $US10,000($16,000)first prize. His serfes-leading eighth victory, coupled with Sammy Swindell’s fifth-lap crash, pushed Kinser back into second place in the point standings. “Our crew chief, Karl Kinser, is at home tonight and the guys (Dennis Kohler, Jim Case and Randy Ward)proved they could win one without him,” Mark said. “They’re pretty pumped right now. We have a lot of big races coming up and getting some momentum is pretty important. Maybe sometime we’ll have a bigmoney race here. This track lends itself to good racing.” Swindell, a five-time winner at Cedar Lake Speedway, was leading the main event when his # 1 Channellock Stealth lost its lefl-

Parents? Who needs ’em! Mark Kinser won without his father Karl at Cedar Lake in the WoO. (Photo by Martin D Clark) rear wheel and flipped late in the fifth lap. Swindell and his crew were unable to repair the car so he had to settle for 23rd place. Kinser, who started fourth in the 30-lap main, followed Swindell, Donny Schatz and

Danny Lasoski for the first few laps until Swindell’s crash. Lasoski held off Blaney and WoO points leader Steve Kinser for third place. Joey Saldana finished fifth, ahead of Paul McMahan.

Judd replaces Milburn IAN Judd,father of 1998/99 SRA series champion Jeff Judd,is the new President of the SRA after being elected unopposed to the position at the club’s Annual General Meeting. Mai Rankin is the new Vice President, with Natalie Morton as Treasurer, Kevin McCallum as Secretary and Jeff Drew, Ian Vale, Ian Thomsen and Mike Van Bremen ae the committee. All were elected unopposed.

Outgoing President Wayne Milburn, who has steered the club through difficult and trying times, chose not to run again. In his President’s report Milburn stated that it had been a very difficult and frustrating time and was somewhat baffled as to why, with the demand from promoters for Sprintcars, that prize money and driver benefits hadn’t increased with the demand for their services. “I believe a national body

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pi’operly set up and managed would benefit all competitors‘&nd promoters, however the current direction of the NASR board has not brought everybody together. Trust is needed and compromise is necessary,” stated Milburn. The new committee is continuing the work and negotiations initiated by the last committee and is well advanced with its plans for the up-coming season. - BRETT SWANSON

NASCAR Winston Cup driver Johnny Benson will race crew chief James Ince's Dirt Late Model at Sedalia, Missouri this weekend and also at the Ken Schrader-owned 1-55 Raceway in Peavley, Missouri as well. Benson drives a Pontiac Grand Prix in the Winston Cup series for Tyler Jet Motorsports and will return to the dirt, having started his career there before moving up into stock cars, firstly in Bahari Racing's Pennzoil Pontiacs. Depending on their success, the pair may team up for more dirt races during the weekend. “Dirt racing is what racing is all about,' said Benson. "When I first started racing it was on dirt, so this is kind of like returning to my roots. This is going to be fun just hanging with James and the guys on his dirt team. Plus, this gets Schrader off my back about me coming out to his track to race!" 'Tm sure all those guys at the dirt track are going to love to compare themselves to a Winston Cup driver, so I imagine it's going to be some pretty tough racing," the Michigan driver mused. "Someone asked if I was going to race hard out there and I said with James as the crew chief and car owner I'm not going to have a lot of choice. Plus if Schrader is payingthe purse then you know I'd love to take his money." For his part, Ince said he's not going to let Benson slide one bit in the cockpit of his Dirt Late Model. "I told Johnny that we might run Sunday night and Monday night, depending on how he performs in the car on Friday and Saturday," Ince said. "I'm a high-pressure car owner. We have an off-weekend and the thing we like to do on off-weekends is go race somewhere. Johnny hasn't been in a dirt car in 10 years. Ince began his career in Dirt Late Models in Springfield and is trying to get a team ready for his 21-year-old brother Will to race. "I haven't actually been home in two years, so this is also an opportunity for me to see friends and family," Ince said.

2000 WORLD OF OUTLAWS SERIES POINTS SCORE Point Standings to 17,July 2000 I. Steve Kinser 2. Sammy Swindell .. 3. Mark Kinser 4. Stevie Smith 5. Danny Lasoski ... 6. Dale Blaney 7.Andy Hlllenburg .. 8.Joey Saldana 9.Johnny Herrera .. 10. Jac Haudenschild

5650 5464 5451 5375 5343 5212 5103 5077 4967 4862

11. Donny Schatz. !2. Daryn Pittman 13. Tim Shaffer... 14. Danny Wood.. IS. Greg Hodnett. 16, BrookeTatnell 17. Lance Blevins . 18. Brian Paulus.. 19. Paul McMahan. 20. Dean Jacobs ...

Eldora Speedway 16,July 2000 4778 4760 4660 4655 4244 4184 3693 3321 3296 3277

I. Dale Blaney 2.Steve Kinser 3. Brad Furr

ll.Oaryn Pittman 12. Stevie Smith

6.Sammy Swindell 7. Danny Wood 8. Mark Kinser

13. Rocky Hodge» M.Donny Schatz 15. Kenny Jacobs 16. Greg Hodnett I7.jac HaudcntchKd 18. Dean Jacobs

9. Craig Ooltansky lO.Apdy Hlllenburg

19, Ed Lynch Jr. 20.Tim Shaffer

4.Joey Saldana 5. Danny Lasoski

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Brooke Tatnmil

Going the distances

Brooke Tatnell is on one of the hardest trails in world motorspoi't - the World of Outlaws. WADE AUMGER grabbed a lift with Tatnell on a recent trip to the 'States.

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“RIGHT turn Wal,” Brooke Tatnell calls out from the driver’s seat of his motorhome as the freeway off ramp looms ahead in the distance. “Wal’ is his pet name for long time girlfriend (and now fiancee) Laura Sevan, who is doing her best to keep the tomato sandwich and cup of tea she’s making from scattering across the room as the motorhome veers right.

It has not been a happy night. Brooke was sitting in the transfer spot at the Oklahoma City Pennzoil World of Outlaws race when the main wing collapsed at over 240kmh. The sudden change in direction caused by the wing slammed the Casey’s General Stores Ma;xim into the foot-high guardrail that ■ somehow constitutes a safety fence and he cart-wheeled violently.

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For a long time all was quiet around the crumpled mess. Then, after a couple of minutes with the paramedics, a stiff and sore Tatnell was able to get himself into the ambulance, albeit with a neck brace around ids shoulders. “Tell Laura I’m OK,” were his only words to me before I ran back to the PA position and relayed the message. It was the first time that he could remember where he was too sore to run the B-Main and try and malce the transfer to the A and, as a man who is typically very tough on himself, it obviously grated on him. There was no time to lick his wounds though. They had to race some eight hours down the road in Nebraska the next night for a double header, and that meant driving through the night in his motorhome while the car and hauler went on without him. Car owner Lonnie Parsons and Aussie crew member Dwayne Lawrence would meet him at the race track in the morning. It’s here the loneliness sets in. Ever the professional: Tatnell has won many fans In the U.S. with his professionalism but for the Sydneysider, winning is the burning ambition, rather than merely ‘running with the Outlaws’. (Photos by Martin D Clark)

"I used to think that motorhomes were tor posers, hut after spending a year steeping in the iiauier and trying to stay fresh for races i knew it was time to hite the huitet. Now i reaiise that they aren't a iuxury, »r they're a necessity.

- Tatnell on his motorhome

Driving through the night, Tatnell first passes Andy Hillenburg’s motorhome, then Steve Kinser’s hauler, followed by Stevie Smith’s motorhome. “Shame you didn’t get to pass them on the track tonight instead of the interstate,” I offer. A knowing wry grin is all I get. Tatnell’s motorhome is immaculate. He had to get a loan for an obscene amount of money to get it (and couldn’t have done that without the generosity of an Australian partner) but his adversaries own travelling Hiltons are worth three and four times more than his. “I used to think that motorhomes were for posers, but after spending a year- sleeping in moiorgport news

SPSMDWAY reasons we chose Brooke.” This ‘development year’ has been tough on all concerned. Simply, the motors aren’t up to snuff and there have been too many nights when a certain top five finish has been terminated by the powerplant crying enough. “It’s not like we don’t spend the money,” explains Brooke,“this car never hits the track without new rubber, but the engines have really let us down.” Laura is curled up on the couch as we approach the exit for 335. There’s obviously a growing feeling of dread that’s just visible on the surface; she’s going home in two weeks and her heart is heavy. Theirs is a unique relationship. /M I In the past five years they may have seen each other, at maximum, five months per year. Best friends before they were ever childhood sweethearts, the two will be getting married in February and will finally be insepai-able. “It wasn’t always like this,” he jibes her. “She flat knocked me back when I first asked her out on the Pirate Ship at Luna Park. I was devastated and I haven’t gotten on a Pirate Ship since. I can’t even look at an eye patch without j shivering.” ! The teasing is par for the course, but deep down they both know the the hauler and trying to stay fresh month they have shared together for races I knew it was time to bite is nearly at a close and it will be the bullet. Now I realise that they , some five months before they see aren’t a luxury, thejfre a each other again. necessity.” “I don’t know how she does it,” Like many drivers running for he whispers. “What she puts up car owners, Tatnell’s deal is purely with is unbelievable.” a percentage of the prize-money. I’m a little tired but Brooke has Given that heat races don’t pay to be more so and I don’t want to more than a cheeseburger in the' leave him at the wheel without Pennzoil World of Outlaws, he’d conversation to keep him awake. made a dismal $5 tonight. When Laura goes home, he’ll Surely the indignity of crashing, travel alone to these races and I hurting yourself and not making have to admit that scares me a bit. the show is intensified when you “I really miss just calling up realise you haven’t made enough fi'iends, or bumping into family, money to buy the missus a dinner that’s probably the hardest part. salad at a family restaurant. All these teams have their families “If you think about it too long, travelling with them and they you wouldn’t do it,” he quips, “so I have to focus on tomon'ow night and doing better there. I don’t look at this deal in terms of the immediate futoe, I have to view the whole deal'as a long term prospect.” Tatnell has been promised by owner Parsons that this is a development year. The likeable Des Moines,Iowa native sports a gravelly voice and a toothy grin and has considerable respect for his driver. “We had a lot ofAmerican drivers call us when this deal was being put together but Brooke’s personahty shone through. My sponsor wanted a driver with character and that’s one of the 21 July 2000

have friends in many different states through all the years of travelling there. “This whole Outlaw deal is very cliquey, everyone stays together in their own little gi'oups whereas we are pretty much loners. We do travel a bit with Daryn Pittman though.” Brooke’s second year with the

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"I see this as a long term deal and what I've put in has been an emotional and a financial investment in the future. I just hope it ail pays off one day fr

Outlaws has probably been tougher than his first in a lot of ways. There have been some shining moments when he’s blasted by 15-17 cars in the A-Main after engine *■ problems have hampered his quahlying. Anything but a win doesn’t pay a great deal of money. And money, after all, is what he needs to run that motorhome and put food on the table. When you hear ‘an Outlaw races

Double edged Helix: Staying m Australia and clocking up wins and ^ World Series titles is nice but W£OJ^ what Brooke's challenge

to put food on the table’that’s an accurate description. There’s no time and no other way to gain income when you’re racing 110 nights a year. Some have suggested he’d be better off racing AU Stars or in Pennsylvania, but that would be missing the point. He hasn’t dreamed about running with the AU Stars, he’s dreamed about running with the Outlaws. “I know exactly how he feels,” says former WoO racer and now TIW announcer Brad Doty. “You don’t want to run weekly shows, you want to run with the best. “There’s no doubt it makes you a better racer, though it does also make you doubt your own ability. The Outlaws wUl run right over you if you’re in the way of a pay cheque so you do get the feeling you’re being picked on.” “I’m not complaining,” says Brooke,“HeU,I’m the one tW took the mortgage on the motorhome and hocked eveiything Laura and I had to do this, no-one made me do it. “Lake I said before, I see this as a long term deal and what Fve put in has been an emotional and a financial investment in the future. I just hope it all pays off one day.” If there’s one department where TatneU leads the Outlaws by more than a lap, it’s professionahsm. In the pits he stands out hke a beacon, dressed in trousers and his crew shirt before and after the races. AU around him,the biggest names in the sport have retreated to denim shorts and racing T-shirts to meet the fans. Unless there’s TV coverage, most ofthe crews stay in dirty old shirts, shorts and sneakers. The sun comes up on another Nebraska summer morning as we drive past Eagle Raceway and some 20 miles further down the road into Lincoln to my hotel. He’U have to go back to the track after dropping me off, where he’U shower and get ready to work on the cal'for that night’s racing. He hasn’t been to sleep since the morning before. I offer to pay his gas, but he politely declines. “I was coming to Nebraska anyway,” he says,ignoring my point. There’s a toed look in his eyes as we unload my bags on the side of the road, but there’s stUl a glimmer of excitement there too. As Laura makes a fresh cup of tea and some Vegemite on toast for her man,they drive off into the distance headed for yet another race track. My head hits the piUow and not long after Tm almost out to it. Before I drift off I realise what it is I’ve been thinking since I saw him in Kansas to start off this trip; you have to admire a man who knows what he wants, and will do anything to get there...

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Aaron Noonan

Happy Day Sundays COMMODORE CUP

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WKKEffwWt Phonsy in a Commodore and not on a Harley! Phonsy Mullen grabbed two wins from two starts in the Commodore Cup at Oran Park. (Photo by Dirk Kiynsmilh)

DESPITE qualifying half a second ahead of his nearest competitor, Greg Waters had to he content with two second placings as Phonsy Mullen took the spoils in hoth races of the third round of the ROH Wheels Commodore Cup series on July 9 at Oran Park. The warm-up was a strong indication of how the race would go, with Mullen turning the tables and going half a second quicker than Waters, almost matching Waters’ qualifying time. So it turned,out to be once racing got underway, Mullen getting the jump at the start of race one over Waters, who slotted right in behind him but was unable to hold onto the flying red machine. On his third lap Mullen knocked 0.3s off Wayne Wakefield’s lap record, resetting the mark to a lml8.8456s. By the half way mark both Mullen and Waters were well clear of their opposition, with Geoff Emery, who qualified second and having dealt with Christian D’Agostin, looking set for third until an oil pump failed. This left third place to be fought out in an exciting battle between D’Agostin, team mate David Gittus, Brett Holdsworth, Geoff Parker and Tim Pearce. In a thrilling finish after a hard but clean duel, Gittus just pipped D’Agostin on the line with Holdsworth and Parker filling

out the top six. Race two was a similar story, but in this case D’Agostin got the start of a lifetime. From grid four Christian split the front row and they went three wide into the kink at the end of the front straight. He was held back to third by Mullen and Waters, and then engrossed himself in chasing Waters for the next few laps. Mullen did another disappearing trick, pulling away comfortably to another win while unfortunately for D’Agostin, his exuberance in the chase of Waters was his downfall. He was black-flagged on lap seven for jumping kerbs and completed his stop-go penalty the following lap, eventually recovering to finish eighth. Geoff Emery fought his way through the field from 13th on the grid to capitalise and take third while Gittus, Pearce and Holdsworth continued their hostilities. Holdsworth suffered the same fate as D’Agostin (for the same reason) and the final finishing order was Mullen from Waters, Emery, then Gittus and Pearce. - EDWARD KRAUSE Commodore Cup Points Waters 278, Emery 247, D'Agostin 245, Gittus 223, Pearce 207, Parker 203, Holdsworth 197, Walker 195, Papendell177,Mullan163.

Good Evans! Luff loses! IN an ironic twist, Warren Luff's perfect record in the 2000 Logical Mirage Cup series was ruined at Oran Park, his home circuit and the one place where he has a clear track time advantage over his rivals. Dean Evans, a perennial runner-up to Luff so far this year, took not only a race from Luff, but also the round overall. Luff started the weekend off as per usual, qualifying 0.7s clear of Evans and Gavin Harvey, with the race one finishing order as per qualifying. 74

But then in race two Evans got a great start and led into turn one. Luff put the pressure on but then got caught up battling with Barrie Nesbitt and Harvey. Some panel rubbing put him back to fourth, eventually getting back to third behind Harvey, with Evans a clear winner by over a second, and closing to within 20 points of Luff in the title. - EDWARD KRAUSE Mirage Cup Points Luff 112, Evans 92, Harvey 66, Nesbitt 45, Eddy 41, Young 37, Fulton 34, Brangwin 28.

Mean Dean: Dean Evans reversed the Luff winning trend at Oran Park. Luff wasn’t far behind though as this shot suggestsi (phoio by oirk Kiynsmiih) moiorspon news

NATIONAL AUSTRALIAN SUPER TRUCK CHAMPIONSHIP

Blotting the Inky : }

Continuing to lead: Inky Tulloch’s CAT big rig^ continues to lead the Comin.ertfaJIyi^Australian Super Truck Championship.

by PHIL WILLIAMS THE Continental Tyres Super Truck Series returned to Mallala for their third visit on

July 8/9. The weekend started badly for the Fate Racing Team. Frank Amoroso slammed his W900 Kenworth into the wall at Clubhouse Corner in Saturda/s first 20 minute practice session to bring out the red flag. The front left corner was too severely damaged and the truck was put away for the weekend. Inky Tulloch in the CAT-Aero took the early honours with a lap time of Imin 27.69s. Bill Sieders in the Herd Aluminium MAN claimed provisional pole with lm28.97s to be under the Co-Drivers record. However, when the stewards studied his tachograph he was found to have broken the 160kph limit and 14 of his 16 laps were disallowed. This elevated the L2000 MAN of Alfred Sieders to the first position with Ken Lusty the best of the Lights. Times didn’t improve when the heavens opened for the second qualifying session later in the afternoon. Bill Sieders was fastest but was more than 10 seconds slower on the sodden track. When the lead drivers hit the track for their split session (top 50 percent first), conditions were little better than in the morning. Again, Tulloch was the man to 20 July 2000

beat, going under the lap record by almost eight-tenths with a lm26.61s. Glenn Dobson(MAN L2000) made up the front row onetenth of a second further back. Local hero John Bomberle was fourth, with championship aspirant Rodney Crick off the pace and fifth m ljis Volvo N12 on a lm28.09s. John Falk in the Isuzu SBR was quickest of the Lights in the bottom 50 percent session with lm32.54s. Sunday dawned to further cold conditions and the threat of rain under dark grey skies. The ‘chook lotto’ six lapper saw Crick off the front, where he stayed for the duration to talce the flag ahead of Dobson, Bomberle, Tulloch, Luke Sieders and Daniel Bajema. Track conditions remained damp and cold as the Timcks came out for their first eight lap race. Tulloch made the most of his good qualifying effort for what would be a flag-to-flag drive. Dobson followed him home six seconds further back, with Bomberle on his home track a further three seconds in arrears. Falk was the first of the Lights to ahead of Passmore and Spencer. The Co-Drivers Cup eight lap race went to Alfred Sieders by seven seconds from Mike Russell (White GMC)and Colin Lovett (Volvo N12). Of the Lights, Lusty took the

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flag ahead of Steve Coulter(SBR) and Greg Andrews also in an Isuzu SBR. The reverse grid, eight lap race saw Crick start from pole with Bomberle alongside while Dobson and Sieders made up row two. Barry Butwell(SBR)and Morton headed the Lights. Both groups made a clean start as they headed to turn one with a little jostling for positions amongst the Lights. Crick continued to hold the lead, while on lap three, Luke Sieders and Tulloch had a close encounter that resulted in not much more than trading of paint. Dobson slipped by Bomberle on the next lap to take second while Sieders and Tulloch continued their squabble until the final lap when Bomberle spun at the Esses to drop a spot and split the duelling duo. Crick took the points ahead of Dobson and Luke Sieders. Bomberle was later elevated to third after Sieders was penalised 10 seconds and fined by the stewards for his aggi-essiveness. Tulloch remained fifth. The Co-Drivers reverse grid saw Lovett and Bill Seiders on the front row while Lusty headed up the Lights.

AustFalian Super Tk’uck Points Tulloch 212, Russell 144, Dobson 138, Crick 127, Sieders 112, Bomberle 87, Bajema 70, Amoroso 49, Mackin 38, Butwell 32, Haigh 29.

M VeeM studios THE Formula Vees put on two fascinating races in the first round of their Super Series at Oran Park. NSW champ Phil Moyes and Victorian Hart Mason shared the victories in the two races, both of which had a four-way battle for the lead, the lead changing several times. Steven Butcher took pole position in his Butcha 971, but it was Moyes who came out on top in his Jacer in the opening heat from Mason (SMS Consulting Group Jacer), Shane Hart (Jabiry) and Gary Ogden (Mako), less than a second separating them. In race two Mason triumphed over Moyes and Hart, with Benjamin Porter in a Kestrel chassis joining them in the four-way tussle for the majorit/ of the race. Formula Vee Results: Race 1: 1. Phil Moyes, 2. Hart Mason, 3. Shane Hart, 4. Gary Ogden, 5. Stephen Butcher. Race 2: 1. Mason, 2. Moyes, 3, Hart, 4. Benjamin Porter, 5. Philip Bateman. - EDWARD KRAUSE

Numero uno; Phil Moyes (above) shared the wins with Hart Mason. (Photo by John Morris/Mplx)

Ash’s Sunday School JUSTIN Ashcroft took two convincing victories in the 2000 Club Car Challenge. The Mitsubishi Lancer driver qualified second to the Mazda RX-7 of Jean-Paul Ballard with only 0.05s separating them, well clear of the rest of the field. A brief, but enthralling battle with Ballard in the opening few laps of race one ended when Ballard had a spin on lap four, dropping well down the field. He later spun out for good. Ashcroft then had an unchallenged run to the end, winning from the Commodore V8 of Scott Bucton and Peter Bellett in an Audi quattro. Bellett got the jump in race two, but Ashcroft was back in front by the second lap and had another convincing victory from Bellett, whose dice with Bucton was the only interesting part of the race. - EDWARD KRAUSE 75

SPORTS SEDANS by PHIL WILLIAMS A good field of 20 Sports Sedans were on hand at Mallala for the latest round of the Australian title to support the Super Trucks on July 7/8. As with the Super Trucks,the Sports Sedans’first serious look at the Mallala track on Saturday morning was in damp and cold conditions. Series leader Tony Ricciardello set about letting his intentions known early in the 30 minute session by going under the existing lap record after just three laps with a lm07.31s. Hometown hero Mick Monterosso was making his season debut and was third quickest after only a handful oflaps, behind Kerry Baily (Nissan). By the time they returned to the track a few hours later the temperature was still barely into double figures. Baily wound up the 300ZX to take pole for race one and steal Ricciardello’s record from the mommg session. Monterosso moved onto the front row with Ricciardello’s Alfa in third. Former Wynn’s V8 Supercar driver Darren Hossack (SAAB) made his presence felt completing row two while Barry Jameson (XR8) rounded out the top five. The Sunday morning warm up session saw more of the same in terms of weather conditions single digit temperatures and a greasy track following overnight rain. Quickest was Monterosso, albeit more than 12 secs slower than the pole time of Baily. Several drivers, including Baily and Ricciardello, decided not to tempt fate and opted to stay in their garages, feeling that discretion was the better part of valour. The first race over eight laps was set to be a cracker. The field made a reasonable start at the green light but a tangle at turn one saw Ricciardello pushed wide and spin, dropping a few spots before being able to rejoin. Jameson appeared to miss most of the drama to skip into the lead. Baily and Hossack followed but had been impeded by the skirmish allowing Jameson to make a slight 76

break. With a clear track in front he was able to extend his lead to take a 10 second win ahead of Baily and Hossack. Ricciardello recovered slightly to finish sixth. The second race saw Baily and Monterosso off the front row

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followed by Hossack and Ricciardello. Local knowledge counted for little as Baily finally got through on Monterosso on lap five. Monterosso made the most of his Escort’s sheer power and vainly threw everything at the Nissan over the final three laps. Baily was able to hang on for a well deserved win as the pair crossed the line just 0.74s apart. HosSack, Ricciardello and Des Wall(Toyota Supra)made up the top five. The final race was a iO lap affair with the top 10 reversed. Phil Crompton(EB Falcon) and local driver Lee Nicolle (Torana XU-1)headed the grid followed by Bob Jolly(Holden Commodore) and Tony Wilson (Holden Commodore). Crompton made a horror start and slipped back to second last as the field rounded turn one to start lap two. Ricciardello, starting from seventh, made up some good ground after a touch with Hossack to lead at the beginning of the third lap. Monterosso and Baily also moved up as the rest traded positions and sorted themselves while Hossack trailed smoke from a tyre rubbing on the front corner, a result of his earlier nudge with Ricciardello. The race settled for several laps until leader Ricciardello pulled out with less than three to go, handing the lead to Monterosso. But it wasn’t over yet. Hossack was throwing out a big challenge over the final stages. The SAAB made a late run down the inside on the final lap and leaned heavily on the Escort, pushing Monterosso wide at the start of the Esses. Wall made the most of the opportunity to sneak through into second. Monterosso went past the chequer in third with Baily fourth and Jameson fifth.

■:ic Ground pounders; Mick Monterosso (Escort) leads Darren Hossack (SAAB) (Supra) in the Australian Sports Sedan Championship at Mallala.

Share the F3 wealth: James Manderson (above) and Paul Stephenson (Pholo by Phil Williams) dominated F3 at Mallala, winning one race each. WITH 75 percent of chassis in the Mallala field from the one manufacturer, the Australian formula 3 series couid almost be re-named Formula Dailara. Track conditions remained damp and cold for qualifying for the F3 brigade in South Australia. In the Chas Jacobsen entry James Mandersonwas the early pacesetter in the first 30 minute session. He smashed Paul Stephenson’s (Dailara 396) old lap record of 1m09.06s by almost three seconds after just seven

laps of the 2.6km circuit to record a 1m06.16s. Three others, Darren Palmer, Stephenson and Jacobsen followed suit, although Manderson remained at the top. In the second session Palmer overhauled Manderton's earlier time to go quicker and break into the 1:05s for the first time. Again a handful of others managed to also go under the record. The race start was delayed motorspori news j

neps Neil’s Fad-ulous

NATIONAL

MAX Adventure ●m

KARTING

NSW’s Neil McFadyen has taken out round two of the Ford MAX Challenge series at Sydney’s Eastern Creek International Karting Raceway. Fresh from his second \vin in a

row in the APS Racing Series, McFadyen qualified fastest before

taking a back seat in the opening two heats. Starting off grid three for the

Jeff Barnes (Pontiac) and Des Wall (Photo by Phil Wiliams)

after a rag which had been left on top of the exhaust of Stephenson’s car caused a fire after the warm-up lap. The Women for Wheels team were quickly on the scene. With no ill effects to the #1 Dallara, he re-gridded for the start. A clean get away saw Stephenson make the jump on Manderson for the the first race of 15 laps. The rest settled into a race pattern by lap three with Stephenson stretching the gap to six seconds from Manderson at the finish. Mike Beeley (Reynard) and Palmer swapped positions to fill the minor places. Grid positions for race two were as they finished previously and finally, for the first time in two days, the sun shone briefly. Stephenson and Manderson both got away well and were to do battle once again as Palmer failed to complete a lap. Manderson, after a close tussle, finally got through at two-thirds distance of the 15 lapper and set about consolidating his lead. Within three laps of going to the front he mirrored his qualifying effort to again break the lap record with a 1 m06.43s before going on to finish 6.5s ahead of Stephenson to share the spoils for the weekend. - PHIL WILLIAMS 20 luly 2000

final, McFadyen quickly moved to the lead past William Yarwood and was never challenged beyond half race distance, taking out the win and moving to the front of the points tally. M'cFadyen grabbed pole (40.207s) from Yarwood (40.230s), Matthew Wall (40.311s) and Mark Winterbottom (40.326s). Yarwood took a narrow victory over Wall in heat one. Wall taking revenge and reversing the positions to win heat two. McFadyen then won heat three by 3.4s over Wall, Jamie Whincup, Michael Caruso and Yarwood, who experienced an engine problem. Wall sat on pole for the pre-final thanks to his consistent finishes and went on to record another second behind Yarwood and ahead of McFadyen and Whincup. Mark Winterbottom had fought his way back to fifth having suffered a DNF after a collision in the first heat. Up to the final, CIK drivers had dominated the event, Victoria’s DaiTen McDonald and NSW’s Jason Varley the only non-CIK drivers capable of running inside the top ten. Queenslander Yarwood led at the start of the final ahead of McFadyen as Wall was shuffled back a number of positions. Winterbottom had also moved forward, but as he and Yarwood battled mid-race, McFadyen was able to build up a handy lead which he held to the flag. Yarwood went on to claim a strong second keeping him well up in the points. Winterbottom was next, not able to keep the pressure on Yai-wood and falling back with a deteriorating

*11 p. WHINC^

fisiiwuesTUfiBi t, ■

●tv

Out of speed: Jamie Whincup couldn’t catch Neil McFadyen at Eastern Creek, finishing back in eighth. (Phoio byseanHensheiwood)

right rear tyre, most probably as a result of his charge back up the order during the heats and pre-final. “Even though it was a bit of a bad weekend, we got a better result (compared to round one),” Winterbottom said. By lap 16 the order had been pretty much established, although there was a fair amount of contact in the midfield with a lot of side pods marked up. Eastern Creek’s flowing nature made clean passing difficult, particularly when there was very little lap time difference between the drivers. Jason Hryniuk put in an excellent performance for fourth ahead of Camso who displaced McDonald on the final lap. It was a strong showing fi'om McDonald, a DNF in heat two (where the kart stalled and wouldn’t restart after a spin) compounded by grit in his eye in the opening laps of the final. “I drove three laps with one eye closed!” Darren explained. The hard luck story of the meeting was that of Wall. Finishing first or second in every race up to the final. Wall dropped a chain on lap 10 to record a DNF, a chain guard safety bracket working lose, flicking the chain off. 'Tyson Pearce took a well earned seventh (having set fastest lap in the pre-final) ahead of Whincup

and Varley, both of whom were suffering sore ribs requiring special strapping and seat padding. Round one winner Gavin Walker was not able to live up to his Todd Road pace, finishing 14 seconds behind McFadyen in 10th position. Taz Douglas (Azzurro) dominated the Junior Clubman support event vanning two of three heats, the pre-final and final. Tom Williamson trailed home second, Daniel Aplin third. Round three of the Ford series is at Newcastle on July 29-30. -MARK WICKS Ford MAX Challenge

Results

Pos Driver 1 Neil McFadyen 2 William Yarwood 3 Mark Winterbottom 4 Jason Hryniuk 5 Michael Caruso 6 Darren McDonald 7 Tyson Pearce 8 Jamie Whincup 9 Jason Varley 10 Gavin Walker

Gap -1.614s -3.597s -5.070s -5.601s -6.269s -8.759s -11.124s -13.436s -14.023s

Points after round two; McFadyen 161, Yarwood 152, Whincup 145, Walker 144, Caruso 137, Hryniuk 133, McDonald, Wall 132, Winterbottom 124, Varley 123.

NATIONAL Karting Briefs THE mbm.com (Mercedes Benz McLaren)team, which runs newly crowned European Champion Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg in Formula A this year, has been utilising an ex-Renauit F1 transporter to carry their gear around Europe, Complete with flooring, kitchen and satellite dish, it’s one high tech bit of gear. All the mechanics wear ear pieces so they are continually in contact with all the other team members as well! n August 5 and 6 sees the inaugural running of the Australasian C-Grade titles at Morwell, Victoria. Specifically for drivers holding AKA CGrade licences, the meeting allows less experienced drivers the chance to race for outright honours without having the likes of a Ben Savage or Mark Winterbottom carving them up. The karting administration will no doubt be interested in the level of support from competitors for what is effectively a 'graded' competition. n Sandro Guaitoii is back working for PCR in Europe. The former Australian international competitor is living in Italy and works for the factory team as Rickard Kaell's mechanic. Guaitoii joins an ever increasing list of Aussies working in European karting which now includes drivers (Briscoe, Hunt and Horstman), team personnel (Richard Trevan, Josh Floyde-Smith) and a journalist (Ian Salvestrin). n Conversely, one to leave Europe is Jon Targett. Targett, who won a round of the European Championship in '92, was spotted at the Ipswich APS round recently and is in the process of settling back into the Australian way of life, taking over a newsagency in Queensland. "I'm back for good," he said. "Ten years in Europe is enough..! find I'm speaking Italian all the time." n Plans to restrict the speeds of Juniors in Europe have been brought forward. After accidents during the first event of the Green Helmet Trophy for Cadets and the European Junior Championship, the CIK-FIA has decided on the grounds of safety to impose engine restrictions at the next round of the European Junior Championships at Sarno, Italy. All karts must be fitted with an 18mm diameter intake restrictor plate. The new rule will also apply at the Monaco Cup in October. n PCR Australia intend to promote a Re-Sa class for junior drivers. The proposed class will run the same technical regulations that exist for seniors except for class weight. A five round series in NSW is planned to gauge interest in the idea. - MARK WICKS 78

Silencer dramas Queensland Karting Ceuncil enforces moratorium

JULY 1 saw new noise and exhaust regulations come into effect for junior and senior Clubman and Formula Australia classes. AKA registered silencers are now mandatory with’three brands currently registered. However the issue has turned into somewhat of a mini-drama. The Queensland Karting Coimcil recently voted unanimously to enforce a moratorium on the new rulings in that state, meaning competitors do not have to nm the compulsory silencer. AKA QLD citpji a nxnnber of factors, including that the rule was unenforceable because none of the silencers had been properly homologated. The new ruling states an 88dba maximum, but noise readings taken at Newcastle’s recent Pro Series indicate nearly all competitors were over this level despite all running the hew silencer. Yet again the average karter is left confused... -MARK WICKS

Kai*t-Mini on the up in Oz 1

HJ 2a£3sSaw!Baiw S3

Don’t tell Austin Powers: Is the Kart-Mini the Mini-kart for Mini-Me? (Photo by Sean Hensh

Siegers Mega Drive in European tities by MARK WICKS

was concluded last month at the Busca circuit.

DUTCH driver Mario Siegers has taken out the European Championship in Formula Super A at the final round at Oschersleben, Germany. Siegers mustered enough points to claim the prize despite Tony Kart’s Davide Fore putting in a fantastic performance in winning the last two Formula Super A finals. This elevated Fore to second in the Championship. In Formula A,Lewis Hamilton, who had already clinched the championship prior to the final round,took victory yet again, this time ahead of mbm.com team mate Nico Rosberg. Meanwhile,the sixth and final round of the Italian Open Championship series

French driver Guignet won both finals to take out the Junior ICA class, Andrea Bonetti winning senior ICA. With Lewis Hamilton, Nico Rosberg and Championship leader Giuseppe Palmieri not racing Formula A, Stefano Fabi took the win. A collision during the last lap of Formula C between Francesco Laudato and Alessandro Piccini handed the FC title to Gianluca Beggio. The following weekend Laudato clenched the European Formula C Championship at France’s Carole circuit, Valerio Sapere(CRG) winning the Intercontinental C title.

ANOTHER brand of chassis is being imported into Australia, however unlike almost all the other imports which hail from Italy, Kart-Mini is a Brazilian and Brazil’s largest kart manufacturer. Having previously had drivers such as Ayrton Senna, Emerson Fittipaldi, Gil de Feiran and Rubens Barrichello steer the product in their home country, the chassis are now gaining results in Australia. Michael Davidson won Clubman Super Heavy at the South-East Queensland Titles while Brendan Stone took out the opening round of the Queensland Max Series. Currently two versions ofthe chassis are available in Australia, the Master 125(for Rotax Max) and the Master 100. Both ffeimes are made of chrome molly tube and come with various axle options. -MARK WICKS

Over to you WITHOUT the very . obvious, stating National Scene is a new addition to the newlook Motors'port News. In these pages you'll read about all of the action in categories like Commodore Cup, Porsche Cup, Formula 3, Karting and loads more state racing categories. State championship rallys and hillclimbs will also be covered in the weeks and months to come. Clubs, associations, organisers, drivers and teams are invited to submit reports, ' news and general interest material for inclusion. Exposure in National Scene can be of great value to categories as well as drivers looking to make an impression on the sport. Send your material to: National Scene Editor PO BOX 1010 Caulfield North 3161 Fax - 03 9527 7766 Email-msnews@ozemail.com.au moiorsport news

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« Excellent insurance for the protection of your expen^ve crank « Used In most forms of racing by the top engine builders » Suits Diesel and Petrol engines « Ught or Heavy case depths .● Daily service <> Processed at lower temperatures than other forms of nrtridlng, resulting In greater quality control fls well we offer THROUGH-HARDENING of Aluminium Heads. Phone for free brochure and information on how we can harden your crankshafts and reharden your heads

Ph Byran Miller «● Mobile 0417 274 507 » Ph 02 9524 3389 o 1 Tamba Place Lilli Pilli NSW 2229

;

f»0-,

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dealer ph 02 6562 7762

« Email easternraceparts@hotmail.com

?»

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Classifieds

2 issues

Sedans/Sporis Cars

WHITE FACED DIALS

● Local design, support, development, inslollulion and on-site training

EEJiHII

●Accurate, Repeatoble, Versatile ● Take manual tonlrol or hands free

GEARf^OBS GLOVES KART

LAWRIE

Eastern Raceparts GIRLiHCI

Sizes available for all motor sports. Same weight as Titanium without the price. For size and price list contact George Stacey-The Boltman Ph 0418 914 492 or 08 9247 2700 ah Fax 08 9247 2034

developed.

RAVEN

'S. ^MPl

Lightweight tubular chrome moly bolts made specifically for competition use by Racebolt USA.

I of the professional

pistmaimo

lA Race Boots

Lightweight boits

I /CORE is at the top

For one person oper^ion, the most efficient way to bleed hydraulic brake systems. Suitable for abs, braided and standard hose types.

SIFREE K*0^HS

Lotus Esprit S4, ex-Lotus Cars Australia, factory built race car, Motec engine management system, AP calipers, firebomb, dry break filler etc. CAMS log book, ideal Targa/race car, can be registered. $68,500. Ph 0418 545 185. IBS V8 Supercar Commodore, ready to race. Also Chev engine. Pantec transporter with annex, Win wheels, centrelocks. Ph Terry Finnigan 02 9681 1561 or 0412 704 075, 1B4 Torana S/S, mid-mounted 202, dry sump, Weber forged pistons, triple plate BB. Slicks S wets, greta hillciimb or circuit car ready to go. Sale due to new project. $8000 neg. Ph David 08 8565 6273 or 0428 831 912. m

Alfa Sprint Sports Sedan, spaceframe construc tion, 13B PP rotary engine. Mazda factory hous ings, fuel injected by MoTec, 5 spd Getrag with Holinger gears, AP t/plate clutch, alloy flywheel, independent rear end, alloy diff, AP 4 spot brakes front Srear on 14‘ rotors. Centrelock hubs, Simmons wheels 10.5x17", spares, models the lot. $28,000. Ph 07 5594 1706. i84

/ Mazda RX3, Sports Sedan, 13B race turbo 300-Fhp, Needham 5 spd, four wheel discs, 10x125 wheels, LSD, new slicks, very quick $9900. Ph 0413 383 102. iw Datsun 1600 rally car, 1800 engine dyno at 185hp, twin 45mm Delautos, 5 spd box, 5:1 locker diff, KYB rear shocks, CAMS log book, good club rally car. $7000 ono. Ph Steve 07 4979 0550. t84

Falcon XY Grp N, everything new, current State championship holder, car has been built using only the best parts, Big HP, gold Irak, pedal box etc. Proven winner. $55,000. Ph 0414 386 391 or 03 9701 5133 bh. 1B4

Marlieiplace

mraceShop Roee,

& Koiite

Air Boy Brake Bleeder

For your nearest

i racing scene with the lightest hose and fitting systems ever

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RACE WEAR CREWS CLOTHING STEERING WHEELS STRUT BRACES HARNESSES HELMETS ● SEATS BOOTS PEDALSETS

10 Eraeri Sired, Slapyllon Q 4207

Ph. (07) 3807 6870

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● Engine, chassis, go-kurt or molorbike

MSPyuoLog

Available for Commodore VN to VT, EF to AU Falcon, BMW, Lancer, Magna & Excel

[ompoHns

Dynamometer

NITRIDE

'A:

HEWLAND

EHC:H£EH;X3 LIMITED

Ph/Fax 02 9526 6666

HAWK BRAKE

Surface Hardenii^g &f Crankshafts

V6=RS310O, IV1}(11 atiKIH 1600 DATSUN 240, 260, 280ZX & 300ZX Tuning-repairs moijs-spare parts

([03) 9308 7494 j(03) 9308 7496 | p 78 HI;ME highway .SC3MERTON .3062 J -● ●

.$750

PP housings. 2 sets. EC

.$300 pr

Inlet manifold with throttle bodies & ports

$150

Starter motors. 2 topmounts

,..$40 eo

Oil radiators. 1 single, 1 double

...$20 ea

Series IV turbo motor. 40,000km (less turbo)

.$950

Exhaust system including muffler

.$150

Light weight flywheel c/w Holden clutch

.$130

for more details phone 03 9742 5277

Dry sump system - complete

All prices negotiable

PraftWn

Telephone (03) 9474 0900 Fax (03) 9474 0999

rum mwm gm Hating Products

13B Rotary Parts

HARROP ENGINEERING AUSTRALIA PTY LTD

THE HRST NAME IN BRAKES

burettor, stiff suspension. Less than 50,000 miles since new. More than $2000 just spent on mechanical overhaul (receipts). $8500.''Ph/fax 03 5439 5296. las

performance a reuabiuty

TfirkjHy

FERODO

Ph 03 9543 6222 Fax 03 9543 6244

$1094.50me/Gsr

Forward to Motorsport News Free Classifieds, PO BOX 1010 North Caulfield 3161. Fax: 03 9527 7766. Email: msnews@ozemail.com.au. Make sure to list your category.

brake pads

Motorsport Equipment & Racegeor 37A Fenton Street Ookieigh 3166

●NEW NODUIAR CASTING CISION CNC MACHINED, GROUND TO EXACTING TOLERANCES 'SUIT 308 RODS,

NELSON

1964 Austin Healey Sprite Mk2A, ex-Alby Middleton race car now converted to fun road car. 11 OOcc motor fitted with Wade cam. Weber car

r HI-PERFORMANCE ; 308-355 C.l. STROKER CRANKSHAFT

(min $10 per ad), photo $10. Further enquiries to our advertising department on 03 9527 7744. Classifieds can be mailed, faxed or emailed. Classifieds are not accepted over the telephone.

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MARK WEBBER SUPPORTER T-SHIRTS

VN Club Car, fresh 5 It, EFi, steel cage, T-5, 3.9 locked diff, VT brakes, log book, heaps of poten tial. $13,700 ono. Ph 0417 061 990 or 02 9624 8640. 185

,. Determined to Drive, b.

pruducskn tte procMds ot «(S woe MM tn na QUHS tfo M ou tor Auitrvo n Fomjfer Uno

motorsport news

21 luly 2000

IFT

Holden FJ Sports Sedan, blue Holden six, Toyota gearbox, LSD, plenty of engine and body spares. Has won many rounds of NSW Hillciimb Chps. $4500 ono. Ph 02 6644 9411 ah or 0428 661 284 bh w

HQ, race setup. 1st Queensland Raceway, 3rd Indy, 4th Bathurst. Complete with spare roiling shell, 2 new engines, heaps spares. $12,000 ono. Ph Andrew 0407 723 055 or 07 5572 3055. w

f \\

Must sell. Missus' car in rain, no room! 12A turbo 5 speed. Won class Bathurst 1975. Log book, $10,500. Will trade E30 BMW parts. Ph 03 6394 3541 or 0407 543 006. ibs

absolutelyfree*

*Motorsport News Classifieds are FREE for private sales. Classifieds from motor sport traders are

Metallic and

Hawk Brake 'Pads are pre bedded m at the factory

Heat Treatment NSW P/L 33 Gann St Guildford NSW 2161 Ph 02 9681 3050 Fax 02 9681 3297

Engineerinig

Ph 08 8371 1500 Mob 0418 600 751

AUTOMonve

Ph Byran Miller «● Mobile 0417 274 507 » Ph 02 9524 3389 o 1 Tamba Place Lilli Pilli NSW 2229

;

f»0-,

● Top nomes demand lop equipment (users inc NIZPRO, HSV, HRT &

dealer ph 02 6562 7762

« Email easternraceparts@hotmail.com

?»

. ^o

Classifieds

2 issues

Sedans/Sporis Cars

WHITE FACED DIALS

● Local design, support, development, inslollulion and on-site training

EEJiHII

●Accurate, Repeatoble, Versatile ● Take manual tonlrol or hands free

GEARf^OBS GLOVES KART

LAWRIE

Eastern Raceparts GIRLiHCI

Sizes available for all motor sports. Same weight as Titanium without the price. For size and price list contact George Stacey-The Boltman Ph 0418 914 492 or 08 9247 2700 ah Fax 08 9247 2034

developed.

RAVEN

'S. ^MPl

Lightweight tubular chrome moly bolts made specifically for competition use by Racebolt USA.

I of the professional

pistmaimo

lA Race Boots

Lightweight boits

I /CORE is at the top

For one person oper^ion, the most efficient way to bleed hydraulic brake systems. Suitable for abs, braided and standard hose types.

SIFREE K*0^HS

HQ race car, blue/purpie, new tyres, suspension. Roll cage, complete less seat and harness. $2500 ono. Ph 03 95T0 4159. .84 Jaguar Sports Sedan, VI2 E Type-based, uncom pleted projea near final ssembly. Huge number of spares, sensible offers. Ph 03 5251 3685 AH or 03 5222 1300 BH. .83

Arrow /VX5 Ultima, 3 meetings old. J&R Clubman & new spare engine, stand, trolley, Digitach etc. As new condition. $2950 the lot. Ph 02 6943 1468. .ss Go kart, Swiss Hutless, RTIOOJ motor, not raced for 3 years in good condition, suit beginner, urgent sale. $1200 ono. Ph 03 5429 6868. .as

Open Wheelers NG Elfin Formula Vee, competit'rve, top Hr-Elliot engine, just rebuilt Complete with box trailer and spares $10,000. Will separate car $8500. Trailer $1500. Ph 03 9804 7642 or 03 9884 5675. .85

Formula Ford Spectrum 06, complete with top HP Fastlane engine, just 1 race meet new. 3 sets wheels, huge list of spares, 28 sets gear ratios, Dorian, maintained by Jamie Gard. With MoTec dash &data $34,500, without MoTec $27,500 and very good Peter Lamer engine $2900. Also available, custom made front & rear jacks, car stands and engine fitting. Ph 08 9377 2999. .s4 Formula Ford '91, with enclosed trailer plus parts $16,500. Ph 07 3806 1465 ah. is4

Formula Libre, 12A rotary, twin distributor, engine needs seals. VW front and rear ends. Heas of engine spares. Easily returned to Formula Vee. Ideal hillclimb or dub car. $2500. Ph 03 9799 0053. .84 ASP 340B Clubman, chassis #1, genuine 340B racing clubman with original log book and history. Totally unique, only road registered racing ASP, therefore eligible numerous classes. $POA Ph 08 8264 2948 .as

1963 Elfin Catalina, Group M. Ex-David McKay Scuderia Veloce as driven by Greg Cusack. 1500cc pushrod Ford. 5-spd gearbox, front discs, eligible also for F.Junior. Excellent condition and in original Scuderia Veloce colours. Sparingly used. $40,000. Ph/fax Brian Reed 03 5439 5296 .as Go kart, Swiss Hutless Maximo, 5 meetings since new, McAuley KTS100 tacho, trolley, sprockets, driving suit plus enclosed trailer. $4000. Ph 03 9590 9196. 185

Merlin Formula Vee, chassis, professionally nar rowed, almost complete roller, most parts, log booked $1000. Ph 0401 187 850 or 03 9722 9315. .84 KCM, lOOcc NGB or sprint, wets on rims, com plete engine spares, too many spares to list, com pletely overhauled. $3500. Enclosed lock-up trail er with mags $2000. Ph 02 4365 2522 or 0427 411 232. 184 Go kart. Excell with MRC rotary engine, memo ry tacho and some spares. Ph 02 4933 4637. .s4 Formula Ford RF96/97, Van Diemen rolling chassis with '97 upgrade and body shell. Very low race miles, immaculate Condition. Some spares available. $PDA. Ph NZ 6357 3642 or 2196 2976. 184 Formula Ford, Van Diemen RF89. Winner QLD c'ship 98/99, top condition, never chassis dam aged, fresh Speedtech engine, 2 sets spare wheels, Dorian, $14,500. Enclosed trailer $2500 or $16,000 the lot. Ph 0418 184 456. 184 Go karts, AX5, 3 bearing, 30mm axle, little use, good condition, Dino 101. 3 bearing 30mm axle with Tillett s^at. Rebuilt and very fast J. Trolley & stand. $3000 ono the lot. Ph 0408 202 337. .S4

EL Falcort, racing body. Ideal for V8 Lites. $3000 ono. Ph 08 8250 1903 ah or 0427 501 903. .85 Weber twin carbys, 48mm IDF on four barrel manifold adaptor plate with linkages. Suit any V8 Group C type, brand new. $850. Ph 03 9874 0081 or 0409 952 732. .85 Mazda 5 speed Holinger, gearbox $2900. LSD 4.8 diff $1400, 12 inch 8x10 wets and slicks. Ph 03 9792 9526 bh or 03 9708 0992 ah. .bs Escort RS1600 parts. Atlas full floating axle assembly, alloy hubs, 2 piece large spline axles, 53" axles, 2F LSD centre set up for coil overs. Very rare. $3150. Ph 08 8278 5988. .85 Porsche 993, turbo/C4S wide body shell. Undamaged, complete turbo 4WD drivetrain, big red brakes. Ph Wayne 07 5449 0055. isb Fuel tank, 16 gallon foam filled. New. $200. Ph 03 9306 9839. .84 HQ chassis, with front end $100. Four platform scales on wheels for weighing cars $1200. 202+60 motor + block 202 + 60 & crank rods etc $100. Ph

Birrana 276 Formula 2, Eligible Historic, chassis #20, last built. Isuzu-Hewland Mk9, spare ratios, engine parts, nose wing, wets etc. Little use. Excellent condition. $17,750 ono. Ph 02 4930 1 6277. .84

FT200 gears, 20/28, 20/24, 30/16, 34/14, 46/14, 28/18, 17/30, 7 dog rings 2 1/2", clutch disc 10 spline 1 "x7 1/4" $750. .s4 Rotary PP, racing plugs. Champion N80 and N555Q, equivalent to NGK BIO EGV and B9 EGV. $7 each if you buy all. .84 Huge range of, Weber parts to suit 40-45mm DCOE, UA D/D GTC Inc chokes, ram tubes, jets, gas kets, banjos, floats, levers, links, n/valves etc. Will not separate. Ph 03 9802 7064 or 03 9887 8380..« Supertrapps, 2x stainless steel 2.5" inlet, 5" out let, 19" long Supertrapp muffler and two optional' Supertrapp mounting kits. All parts new, sell well below cost $850. Ph 03 5265 1240 AH or 0416 099 727. .84

Parts

Historic 1967, GWG Group 0 F3, CAMS certifi cate of description, motor fully rebuilt, 4 spd Hollinger g/box, full history. $33,000. Ph 03 5428 2583. 184 250cc International Super Kart, Yamaha engine. Zip chassis, Kelgate brakes, all complete ly rebuilt. $2750. Ph Barry 03 9796 4588 bh. .84

Hawk Carbon Metallic, brake pads, suit Wilwood Superlite a Dynalite calipers. Black a blue compound. $100/set. Ph 03 9435 5407 after 7pm or 0408 435 010. 185 Chev bowtie block, CNC, 4.125" bore. $3000. Ph 08 9452 2808. .85 Group A rims, one set in top condition five stud pattern $2000 Ph 02 4736 7826. .as Tyres and rims, Dunlop slicks to suit Sports Sedan 310/650R16 on 280 rims 325/700R16 on 300 rims 50% tread $1800. Ph 02 4736 7826 IBS Four platform scales, $1200. Affco rear leaf springs $150, coils from $50 to $85. 175, 250, 275, 450, rear ram for power steering $150. Ph 02 4572 5949. .as

Go kart, PCR, 6 months old, KT100S, just rebuilt, tyres only 1 meeting old. Suit junior or clubman. $3800 ono. KT100J also available for $800. Ph 07 5465 7729, .84

New 5.7 Eagle rods, to suit Chev $600. New 660 centre squiter Holley $560. MSD 7AL2 system box & dizzy to suit Ford, new $900 + other parts. Ph 0419 188 010. .85

02 4572 5949. is4. Formula Vee, gearbox, complete drum to drum with new brakes, bearings and seals. Tagged. $500. Ph 03 9722 9315 or 0401 187 850. .84

Royale FF 1973 RP16, eligible Historic. Recently restored, little use since. Comes with fresh Lamer Engine, Certificate of Description and some gears. Offers invited around $25,000. Contact Dave on 03 95580140 or 0428 682 628 .84

S' i 1951 Cooper JAP MkV, Group Lb. Ex-Tom Hawkes, Stan Jones, Bill Patterson. 1 of Australia's most highly credentialled Historic race cars. Australian Hillclimb Champ 1954, winner of 1 st F3 race in Oz. 500cc JAP Speedway engine, Norton gearbox, a rare piece of Australian motor racing heritage. Ph/fax 03 5439 5296. .as

Superkart, Peter Worrall's 250cc Kawasaki national full body. Carbon fibre wing, rack and pinion steering, programmable ignition plus computer, fueltronics dash, spare cylinders, pipes, engine parts $5500. Ph 02 9824 7350. .84

Cosworth 1300 conrods, 4.414" CRS. $800 for 4. Also Cosworth pistons BA0125. $800 for 4. Ph Ken 03 9796 4588 bh. .85

Chevron B29, Formula Atlantic 1975 Group Q Historic with COD Cosworth BDD fresh engine. New mounted wets. Ex-Albert Poon, race ready, spares. $50,000. Ph Geoff Wieland 0412 333 332 or 03 9816 4639. .84

Edelbrock Victor, water pump, dyno time $250. Yella Terra lightened flywheel, brand new $360, both suit Cleveland. Ph 0418 247 011 bh or 02 6291 5605 ah. .as

Chevrolet/Ford, 8 lug polished alloys. Dress up your tow vehicle. 17x8" concept neepers $1500 the set. 16x8" Ultra Claws $1300 the set. Ph 07 4779 5009. .84 Chev small block, Pete Jackson front drive distrib utor kit, allows distributor to be fitted to front of Chev engine. New. $675. Ph 03 5265 1240 AH or 0416 099 727 AH. .64 Chev small block, Dynagear dual idler gear drive (same as Pete Jackson). Brand new $310. Ph 03 5265 1240 AH or 0416 099 727 AH. .84 Avon ACB10, 6.0/21.0-13 $100. Collett Sydney. Ph 0409 544 100. .84 Harrop brake kit, complete to bolt on to Commodore VB to VN $2500. Fuel cell Auscar style SOL $400, Super T10 Z ratio complete to fit 308 $2500. Ph 03 9432 9482 or 0418 500 287. .84

G8t690nf: □ Sedans □ Open Wheelers □ Speedway DDrag □ Parts □ Engines □ Trailers □ Wanted □ Photographs □ Other.

Description:

news

Please keep ads to no more than 30words,plusa photo if required.

Name:

Address: Ph( 82

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NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS Please use the form provided and print clearly. Please note we are unable to return photographs used in classified ads. Ads will appear as soon as possible after receipt. 'FREE Classifieds are for the sale of private goods and vehicles only, not business advertising (Trade advertisers see Classifieds header for rates). Photos marked "proof" will not be used.

molorsDort news

-V

Marketplace Group C A9X Torana spares, 15x10 Rebel wheels with mounted Avon wets $1500. 15x10 Hotwires with 8-10 slicks $1500, Super TIO with Hurst shifter (not used since complete overhaul) $2000. Harrop full-floating diff. 10. bolt Salisbury housing including hats, rotors, axles (no diff cen tre or brake callipers) $2200. Twin split 2 1/2" side pipe exhaust system (complete except headers) $500. Ph 02 6557 2679 or 0412 670 422. 184

Sprintcar chassis, 91 JSR Hi bar, straight & square, complete with f/glass panels, tail tank, engine plates, brake lines, floorpan and radiator, $2000. 29" torsion bars, some near new in vari ous weights, 6 pin ITR $280. Ph 03 5335 5196 or 0418 851 080. 154

M21 gearbox, 4 spd, bell housing, flywheel, clutch, pressure plate, gear stick. Suit 253 or 308 Holden. $650 ono. Ph 02 4421 6779. 184

Drag

Super Sedan, fresh 350 Chev on methanol, quick change diff & spare gears, various other spares, com plete & ready to race. POA. Ph 0408 565 077. isi

Escort RSI600, works Atlas, full floating axle assembly, alloy hubs, 2 piece large spline axles, 53" tubes, 2F LSD centre, set up for coll overs. Very rare $3150. Ph 08 8278 5988. w Gearbox, straight cut, close ratio, 4 spd, Tranex small Ford to approx 300hp. Totally rebuit with new gears & not run. $2000. Ph 0419 335 670 or 03 9696 9147. 184 Suzuki GTi Swift, factory computer, '88 model $200. Ph Warren 0412 561 447. 184 Ex race, front spoiler. VL Group A, will fit road car. Finished undercoat $500. Ph 03 9735 3906. m

Suzuki GSX 1100EF, 1200cc, 360 cams, ported head, h/duto clutch, HPC coated exhausts, runs easy 10.8s @ 127mph. Registered, $3000. Ph 03 9741 9526. ib4

l Air jacks, new/used, large range, most applica tions, quick release handles available, top quality. C.C.I. Ph'0418 925 767. l Clutches, 7.25, 5.5, 5.0 single, twin, triple plate, sintered or carbon, AP-Tilton-QM, new/used. Spare covers, rings, plates also avail able. C.C.I. Ph 0418 925 767. l Brake calipers, discs, pads. Mega range, new/used, exc condition - AP, Alcon, Brembo, Outlaw, Willwood. Overnight delivery. C.C.I. Ph 0418 925 767.

1988 Camaro, complete less engine, has Lenco 4 spd, struts, US Pro diff, M.W Autometer, Koni, chute, cell, Lexan glass, BB Headers, tube chassis. 1080kg W/BB welds. $AUS20,000 obo. Ph 0064 04 938 5426. ib4

Transporters/Trailers

l Pedals, brake/clutch, floor mount/hanging, new/sued. Also available, bias valves, bias cables, master cylinders, reservoirs etc. C.C.I. Ph 0418 925 767. l Hewland, DGB, 5 speed transaxle, top condi tion, new 9:31 CWP, ratio choices and spares available, $14K ratios, over 300 in stock to suit DGB, GFGB, TPT, FT200. C.C.I. Ph 0418 925 767. l Oil coolers - heat exchangers, Earls, Setrab, Serck, 6-70 row, new/used, also used water to oil heat exchangers, over 100 in stock, C.C.I. Ph 0418 925 767. l Racecar parts, vbrake parts, chassis stands, diff oil pumps, exhaust collectors, fuel cell acces

t Jo.

Chevrolet Silverado 1994, 6.5ltr turbo diesel, extra cab, dually elertric brakes, Sucken goose neck hitch, P/S, /VC, cruise control, running boards, captins chairs, very tidy hauling unit. $67,500. Ph 02 6887 2730. les

sories, oil filters, quicklift jacks, ratio ^xes, radi ator caps, springs, spoilers, wings etc. C.C.I. Ph 0418 925 767. l Uprights, fabricated/cast, fronts/rears, various sizes, new/used, also CVs, driveshafts, wishbones, rockers, pushrods, all top quality, exc condition. C.C.I. Ph 0418 925 767. l Radiators, aluminium, new/used, single/dual pass, top quality, large range, various sizes, suit all applications, from $300. C.C.I. Ph 0418 925 767,

699. 184

Engines Mazda turbo diesel B2200, complete refresh or convert your own motor. Two units, one with turbo, one without. $500 both. Can deliver Sydney metro area. Test drive available, ideal for towing. Ph 0417 454 676. iss Cleveland 357, balanced, 4Vs, mech cam, Edelbrock manifold, roller rockers, super pan, set up to run unleaded. Dynoed 440hp, low kms. Ph 0418 247 01 bh or 02 6291 5605 ah. 185 Escort exhaust manifolds, genuine Lotus T/C $350, RS2000 Group 1 cast manifold/downpipes $450, Group 2 RS2000 3 piece, 1 7/8" primary $425, cus tom Pinto pipes FF2000. Ph 08 8278 5988. iss Escort RS2000, twin IDF downdraught manifold $275, Kent HTI x drilled camshaft (new) $395, crane H322 x drilled cam $425, Cosworth steel Sierra crank $525. Ph 08 8278 5988. las Porsche 993, twin turbo 3.6. Engine complete, intercooler turbos, loom, ECU, cats, mufflers, fly wheel. $43,500. Ph Wayne 07 5449 0055. 184 1300CC 3K Toyota Corolla, racing engine. 12:8 to 1 compression ratio, offset/oversize 42mm titanium inlet valves, dry sumped W/-2 rotor gear scavenge pump. Special Tighe Engineering camshaftm forged Wiseco pistons. Fully rebuilt, ready to run in. Ideal for Sports 1300 or Historic Formula 3. $5750. Ph 07 3205 3165 bh or 07 3351 3872 ah. m Suzuki single camshaft, racing cylinder head. Brand new head, fully ported & race prepared by Peter Liddle Engineering. No camshaft, suit any 1300/1600 Suzuki racing engine. $750. Ph 07 3205 3165 bh or 07 3351 3872 ah. t84 Brand new, Holley blue fuel pump with Holley fuel pressure regulator. Ph 07 3205 3165 bh or 07 3351 3872 ah. )8d Aluminium 18 deg, Chev heads, Jessei rockers, Bowtie manifold $7500. Aluminium track 1 heads, brand new $2600. MoTec fuel injection suit small block Chev. $2800. Ph 0418 514 444. 184 Holden 308 engine parts. Dash 3 alloy heads $1800 complete. Stripmaster manifold $450. 300A cam and lifters new $200. Alloy flywheel $150. Other parts also. Ph 02 6242 6675 ah for details. 184

Custom Ford F150 1989, dual fuel & auto gas, P/S, /VC, running boards, very tidy unit. $22,500. Ph 02 6887 2730. i8s

Videos, V8 Superstars telecast 4/6/00, V8 AMSCAR series 1997, any touring car races pre 1994. Ph Terry 03 9725 6344. iss Books, Autocourse, Automobile Year, Rallycourse, World Rallying. Any cond or quantity. Ph Mike 0412 904 638, email speedsigns@interact.com.au is4 Speedway, fan wants like-minded people to cor respond with. Write to Danielle Clements, PO BOX 205, Newstead Tas 7250. w Irving, or Duggan alloy head to suit 6 cyl Holden. Ph 0411 707 075. is4 1 set of, computerised wheel scales in good con dition with pads etc. Ph 0418 510 633. 154

Other Tool chest, limited edition Harley Davidson 95th Anniversary. Brand new, $5500. RRP $7200. Ph 03 5766 4218 or 0417 581 976. iss Melbourne Grand Prix, number plates. Collertors item, 301 GP $2000 or best offer. Must sell. Ph 03 5391 3016 or 0419 300 908. m Great Race Video, Vol 2(1967-1974). $25 ono. Ph 0417 163 193. iss The Great Race books. Nos 14-17.(1994-1997). In perfect condition, will be sought after books in years to come for complete set of TGR books. Offers. Ph 0417 163 193. las Double layer, Nomex driving suit, Eastman size 8 $150. Bell 7 1/2 M2 helmet, white, full face, extended coverage $250. RPM nomex underwear natural size M $150. All excellent condition. Ph 02 9969 6936. is4 Exhaust tube bender, 3 phase binnie, computer controlled, as new condition. $10,500. Can inspect in Castiemaine, Vic. Ph 03 5472 4116,fax 03 5470 6966, e-mail farrell@iaccess.com.au is4 Automobile Quarterly, over 100 copies, will sell separately. Ph John 08 8252 3414 or 0418 819 759. 184

Great Race books, no 5(85), no 6(86), no 7(87), no 8 (88) also original Great Race book (19601980). Excellent condition. Ph Anthony 08 8351 4801 ah. 184

Go-Power dyno, brand new, never been used, comes complete with all gauges, stand, coolant tank, adaptors etc. Rating 800hp x 10,000 rpm. $20,000 ono. Ph Andrew 0417 188 977 or 02 9975 3881. is4 Ferrari, 1/18 set of 4 models Alesi/Berger/Irvine/Schumacher. Last two with Marlboro decals. Very rare models with original boxes from Minichamps. $950 free postage. Ph 02 9804 7223 before 5pm. is4 Old genuine, workshop manuals. Eg. Chev, Bedford, Vauxhall, Chrysler etc. Also 1949 Auto Engineering, suit all makes, 3 volumes, best offers. Ph 03 6394 3541 or 0407 543 006.. iS4

Holden 308 V8, turbo stud pattern, Std bore, runs fine but needs a freshen up rings 81 bearings $1000 ono. Plus M20 V8 4 spd gearbox $500 ono. Ph 03 5686 2568. i84 Porsche 993, 3.6, complete engine, exhaust, cat, ECU, loom,flywheel. $17,950. Ph Wayne 07 5449

Super Sedan Camaro, built by Danny Smith. Aust #1 1998, two seasons old, proven car, too much to mention. Sell complete, ready to race. Ph 03 5176 1355 or 0418 514 444. iss Super Sedan, late model Camaro, new body, good 350 Brodix heads, roller cam', Vertix magne to & new trailer. No local racing. $15,000. Ph 07 4957 7698. iss Speedcar clearance sale. Stealth Midget com plete or separate, never bent, low mileage, quali ty equipment. Parts, complete front end, alum Carrera shocks, 2xfully adjustable ARS shocks, set sweaded radius rods. POA. Ph 02 9875 1041. les Super Sedan chassis, with 90 mod Pontiac body never damaged. No running gear. $2000. Ph 02 4572 5949. ib4 Holden Commodore, Standard Saloon, V8 auto, won many features throughout the season, rarely unplaced. Complete ready to race, 10 spare rims & tyres, diffs, panels, bumpers, new 5 point 3" harness. Neat car $3000. Ph 03 5686 2568. is4 Speedcars Q59/Q95, 1-OTR/Stealth updates, Duggan engine, Carrera/Pro, weld, Duralite, KSE $18,000. 2-Gardner/Fontana Carrera/Pro, weld, Lee, Sanders, alloy hiems etc. $25,000. Ph 0417 784 997 or 07 5498 9818, im

2imiy 2000

Ford F3S0, Banana back transporter. Low access, reco 351 C6, RWC, top condition, LPG, big winch, custom American look. $22,000 ono. Ph 0408 370

Chev bowtie block, dart 18 deg aluminium heads, T&D rockers, Crower crank, Oliver 6" rods, JE pistons, strong 650hp, recoed. $17,500. Ph 0418 514 444. is4

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Isuzu 82 model, good condition, 22ft pan, elec tric tailgate, 230hp turbo intercooled, long range fuel tank, too much to mention. $25,000. Ph 03 5275 2567. i84

Ford 1996 F350 crew cab, dually fully loaded xlt 7.3ltr power stroke turbo diesel. Automatic Alcoa wheels, side steps, factory black, low kms, $69,500. Ph 03 5176 1355 or 0418 514 444. les

0055. 184

93 Ford FI50 Flareside, 351 EFi overdrive automat

Ford Escort, F/F long motor 1600cc + spare comp head, all brand new from Ford, never used. $2500. Ph 02 9742 5652. 184

ic, every option, lowered,fibreglass lid, tow package, HD cooling package, ideal tow vehicle, full compli ance, faultless 60,000mls, only one in Australia. $45,000 ono. Delivery. Ph 07 4779 5009. isi Helmet, Navy Simpson open face LX8, size 71/4 (white) inci visor $350. Ph 08 8266 7066. is4 Formula 1 Diecast Collection, Stewart 1:43 '91 & '92 X 5 cars, Nigel Mansell 1:43 '89 to '95 X 11 cars, 1:20 '92 x 1. Ayrton Senna 1:18 '88 to '94 X 6 cars,1:24 '94 x 1, 1:43 '93 & '94 X 3 cars. Jordan Collection 1:43 '91 to '98 x 31

Sierra RS500 Cosworth, block. Small Welsh plug Group A type $2500. RS500 harmonic balancer with pulleys (3). Ex-Harrop Engineering, 5 groove belt $550. Ph 08 8278 5988. 184 372ci Sprintcar engine, steel block, Weldtech-12 heads, 2 1/2" Kinsler injector, Jessei, rockers. Vertex mag. Cola crank, LA billet rods, K5E water pump, just refreshened. $16,000. Ph Mike 03 9723 3906 ah. 184

Crew cab dually, 454 auto, power steering, LPG (100L) 150L fuel tank, truck and trailer $25,000. Will separate', can organise delivery anywhere in Australia. Ph 0403 274 551 or 08 9272 9201. iss Tandem trailer, suit small race car, Datsun 1600 etc. 4 almost new light truck tyres, mounted garage jack, easy to tow. $1500, Ph 03 9552 4268. 184

Enclosed race car trailer, 22 ftx8x6, new springs, fully decked out with aluminium floor,cupboards, work bench, electric winch, tyre racks, fold down ramp/door, new tyres. $7500, Ph 07 3368 2727 or 0418 753 256. 184 1980 Isuzu SBR 422,4 ton 18" pan, barn doors, 1500kg tail gate loader, Honda air compressor, tool box, 240v power, electric winch. Ph 07 5491 1260. 184

Escort exhaust manifolds, genuine Lotus T/C $350. ERS2000 Group 1 cast manifold/downpipes $450, Group 2 R52000 3 piece 1 7/8" primary $425, custom Pinto pipes FF2000. Ph 08 8278 5988. 184 Escort RS200, twin IDF downdraught manifold $275, Kent HTI x drilled camshaft (new) $395, Crane H322 x drilled cam $425, Cosworth steel Sierra crank $525. Ph 08 8278 5988. m Ford SOHC 2L, GPl, alloy sump German block & BV head, 520xX cam. Vernier wheel, electronic ignition, Mahie pistons etc. $2200, Ph 03 9546 8342 or 0417 239 641. ib4

Wanted shock absorbers, lightweight adjustable coil over shrxi absorbers to suit Clubman. Ph 029954 4277. in

cars. Also signed and framed pit crew shirts, '92 and '93 Nigel Mansell shirts in one framed box. Ph 02 9264 9866. 184 Bandsaw, horiztontal-vertical, industrial heavy duty, 3 ph, 2hp, Cap 200x350mm, 3 speeds, USA MDFG, ideal for fabricators, brand new in crate. Cost $6000, sacrifice $4000. Ph Dave 03 9598 3658 or 0417 164 809. im Mobile engine hoist, heavy duty up to 50001b lift, extendable arm & legs, hydraulic Jib, brand new, sacrifice $800. Ph Dave 03 9598 3658 or 0417 164 809. w Collector badges, mint cond, 'Searoads' Princess of Tasmania, 1956 Olympic Games, Herald Sun Touring, Goodwill 'Colac' etc. Ph 03 6394 3541 or 0407 543 006. ib4 Workshop manuals, and auto engineering books, all genuine factory Chev, Ford, Vauxhall Bedford etc. Ph 03 6394 3541. 194

OPINION

motorsport EDITORIAL STIFF Editor: Phil Branagan Assistant Editor: Gerald McDornan Staff Journalist: Aaron Noonan PRODUCTION Adv & Graphics Co-ordinator: Viv Brumby RDVERTISINB Advertising Manager: Brendon Sheridan ADMINISTRRTION'Managing Director: Chris Lambden CONTACTS 89 Orrong Crescent North Caulfield Vic 3161 (POBox 1010 North Caulfield Vic 3161) Ph: 03 9527 7744 Fax: 03 9527 7766 Ennail: msnews@ozemail.com.au CONTRIBUTORS General: Grant Nicholas, Darryl Flack, Tony Glynn, Mark Jones, Jon Thomson FI: Joe Saward,Adam Cooper Europe: Quentin Spurring, Gary Watkins US: Phil Morris Speedway: Brett Swanson, Julie Pearce, Geoff Rounds, Wade Aunger.Tony Millard (UK) Rally: Peter Whitten, Jon Thomson Histories: Brian Reed Drag Racing: Greg Ward, Jon Asher (USA), Dave Ostaszewski (USA), Nick Nicholas, Steven White, Ken Ferguson Super Speedway: Martin Clark (USA) Karts: Mark Wicks, Sean Henshelwood, Graeme Burns, John Morris Photographers: Sutton Motorsport Images, Dirk Klynsmith, Bothwell Photographic, Marshall Cass, Nigel Snowdon & Diana Burnett, Tony Glynn, AF1 Images, Neil Hammond, Slipstream Photographic,ThunderPics, Phil Williams, Allsport, John Morris/Mpix, Trank Midgley, John Bosher, Lynley Reid, Mike Patrick (UK), Daniel Wilkins, Wayne Nugent, Peter French, Chris Carter Artist: Bernie Walsh Cartoonist: Allan Schofield Motorsport News is published by Australasian Motorsport News - ABN 55 125 120 702 Publisher: C Lambden Printed by: Wilke Color 37-49 Browns Road Clayton 3168, Distributed by: NOD Ltd Material published by MOTORSPORT NEWS is copyright and may not be reproduced in full or in part without the written permission of the publisher. Freelance contributions are welcome, and while all care will be taken, Australasian Motorsport News does not accept responsibility for damage or loss of material submitted. Opinions expressed in Motorsport News are not necessarily those of Australasian Motorsport News or its staff. SUBSCRIPTIONS (1 year - 26 issues) Australia (price inci GST) Overseas [Air Mail)'. New Zealand, PNG, Malaysia, Indonesia, Phillippines, Hong Kong, Japan US, Canada, Europe

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Post your cheque/money order to the address above, fax your credit card details (Bankcard, VISA, Mastercard, or Amex) to 03 9527 7766 or email to msnevrs@ozemail.com.au

Rusty - pros and cons Until Sunday July 2,1 thought Russell Ingall was a genuine, straightforward racer.' Having seen that display of puure mindlessness on his part at the end of race one, my opinion of Rusty has now been drastically reversed. OK, Russell was baulked a few comers earher. It happens. Get over it! Not only were CAMS justified in dishing out the $10,000 fine and loss of points. Ingall was lucky not to have been disqualified from the entire race meeting.

Ta k coHvertor

Phillip Knowles Wingham, NSW Congratulations Motorsport News, the new look is terrific and much easier to read. WeU done! I was delighted to see my idol on the front and back iover of this issue -just a shame he didn’t have a reason to smile. I believe he was harshly dealt with by the CAMS stewards and it’s time they started being consistent at least! Hard to believe Russell’s peers thought he got off lightly. I wonder what they would have said had it been them - then it would be a different story. Thanks for the enjoyable reading each fortnight - it’s tops. Maxine Oliver. ajo@iinet.net.au With regards to Russell Ingall’s letter last issue, it’s good to know he has breezed past crayons and may soon be using a biro instead of “felt pen to be put to paper” (sic). Seriously though, the Imrie thing was a situation whereby they both took their lumps and, while not being a major fan of Ingall’s, it seems that the punishment was a tad haish. Imrie should have been well out the way, being a lap down so he may have deserved a bit of “rubbedy dub” on the way past. But here’s a thought - maybe all the money that Russell coughed up (in circumstances like this) should be paid directly to the recipient of the said indiscretion, thereby helping him get the damaged vehicle back on the blacktop. This would have a hidden psychological advantage in that said punter would possibly think that the puntee may ‘inherit a skipload of my dollars if I unload him’ so may think twice about his actions! Timothy Gore Oakdale NSW

They like it! Congratulations on your new format It makes reading the magazine a lot easier as well being in full colour. I must admit I was an avid reader of Auto Action but now with the easier to read and handle Motorsport News, I will make the switch. Dennis Watson denwat@alphalink.com.au Yes! Yes! YES! I’ve just bought a copy of MN in the new smaller format and I love it (very Autosport and much easier to read), i hope you get the same response from other readers. Now all I need is for my MN fix to come weekly (are we never satisfied?) to save me having to buy that 'other' magazine on in-between weeks. Keep up the great work. John Cook St Clair, NSW Sincere congratulations on what, in my opinion, is the best value motor sport publication in Australia. I might add it rivals and beats many from the US and UK, too. Alex Glass Albany, WA

In the news:But when is Russell not? (Photo by Marshall Cass)

No show... Your magazine recently advertised a Motorsport Expo at the Melbourne Showgroxmds between July 7-9. I was very disappointed to turn up at the Showgrounds to find that no one from the Melbourne Expo had shown up. I am a disabled person that finds it hard enough to get to these events, and for them not to show up ... what’s going on? Scott Hamilton Melton, Vic Assist Ed: Understand your disappointment, Scott. As we understand it, the Expo was unfortunately postponed after we closed for press, although the promoters did undertake some radio advertising to try and get the word out. Keep in touch with us we understand it is just a postponement and so we’ll make sure you get a couple offree tickets once it is rescheduled.

Big feet? It seems all the other teams can’t work out why those red cars are always out front. It’s simple ... they are on HRT Hormone Replacement Theraphy! Sorry guys! Tess Taylor tes8v8@hotmail.com

I could hardly wait for the 'new style' Motorsport News. I am very impressed with the format -1 can file the copies in a normal folder now! This is the way to go. Myles Lewis Chester Hill NSW I think the new format for Motorsport News is fantastic. I’ve bought (and still have) every issue since about #10. The mag is well worth the price (even with the GST added). Malcolm Hattingh m.hattingh@mbf.com.au

Communication Tremendous to hear directly from Mark Webber - does he have a web address? And James Courtney? My vote goes for the immediate retirement of‘Murray ... gets it wrong too often ... Walker’, and the immediate promotion of James Allen to the microphone with the excellent Martin Brundle. The exasperation in Martin’s voice when Murray errs must surely be embarrassing for both Murray and ITV. Why do we have to put up with an incompetent commentator just because he has been around for decades? Leigh Edwards Taroona, TAS Asst Ed: Try Mark on the web at www.webber-racing.co.uk. James isn’t in cyberpsace yet; he’s too busy winning! motorsport news

See fhe? STARS OF TOMORROW! Kart Racers in the Ford Max Challenge: Michael Caruso Craig Clements Timothy Court Hollie Donovan Aaron Fitzgerald Kate Friend Bryce Godfrey Mark Hester

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