Motorsport News Issue 215 - September 28-October 11, 2001

" HUGE V8 SUPERCAR PREVIEW ISSUE Australia $5.95 NZ $7.50 inci GST

September 28 - October 11

We name the contenders and the also-rans REVEALED - EXCLUSIVE INSIDE PICS

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2001

OWNDES’ NEW WEAPON

sa-jr *■

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PLUS Air crisis - NZ V8

race threatened?

Zanardi-tragedy for CART champion Glenn McGrath - cricket star on Bathurst shot for Webber as Hakkinen

quits?

THE LIGHTNING FAST FALCON XR8.

NOW CHARGED WITH 220kW. The massive power of the new 220kW Tickford enhanced V8 throws you back m the body eomto-uired seats. . The low slung body slices through the air. And standard 17” alloys, side skirts and body colouired mirrors on both the XR8 and XR6 VCT ensure breathtaking looks. So for striking looks and electrifying performance, see your authorised Ford Dealer now or call 1800 503 673.

XR8 shown with optional body kit. FCL3162/V3

www.ford.com.au

We have Ignition

>

nttoRMn Issue 215

28 September -11 October 2001

news and opinions

31 No more donuts Looking back at Alex Zanardi s brilliant career 37 Bathurst Preview Who's In, who's out, who’s hot, who's not.

44

The House of Kev Behind the scenes at Big Kev Racing

48

Still together after all these years Ashby and Reed on Bathurst #16

52

Strategic command The team managers and their winning calls

54

Remember when? Looking back at their first Bathurst races

56

Place your bets Brock, Moffat, McGrath, McRae, Burns and others’ tips

raco covorago 23 CART’S European vacation Brack and de Ferran triumph in Germany, UK 58 Juan to remember Montoya’s breakthrough GP win at Monza ki I

66 Forza Sandown! Bowe/Waring win the Clarion 500

BATHURST We

NEW WEAPOli

i‘i:

regulars

the contenders and the also-rans

Photos: Cover: Ford Racing. Contents: John Morris/Mpix, Sutton Images. Dirk Klynsmith. Marshall Cass

20 Motorcycles 72 Drag Racing

78 Railyong

S2 Speedway

3S Histories

79 NASCAR

S4 National Scene

91 tWarketplace 8

Shiny: Everywhere you look inside the first ‘GMS’ Faicon, it’s siiver and biack. Note attention to detaii in cage; open-topped steering-wheei; and the Mobii decai on the rear bumper. It looked much different when shaking down at Caider iast Wednesday, bottom ...

(Photo by Peter Bury)

Still under $3 a week!

From this issue, the cover price of MN rises by 45 cents to .$5.95.

We won’t bore you with all the stuff about the dollar, costs etc. Suffice it to say, we've always strived to keep our price as low as possible. GST aside, MN's cover price has risen by just 50 cents since November 1998 - during which time the publication has evolved from a newspaper to a full-colour news-magazine - gnd compares pretty well with alternatives here and overseas.

British Autosport sells in its homeland for around $8 (per 4

week): Auto Action here is $4.95 a week. At under $3 a week, we reckon MSN still represents the best value read for the real enthusiast...

Thanks to all those readers who continue to provide valued feedback on MN. It's that support and input which has driven the evolution of MN to date.

We look forward to providing you with the inside news and breaking the big stories, accurately and honestly, for many seasons to come.

Chris Lambden - Publisher

CRAIG Lowndes and Glenn Seton will both debut brand new Falcons in the V8 Supercar 1000 next week.

Lowndes’ all-new Gibson Motorsport car, nine months in the making, ran at Winton, on Monday of this week after a Caider shakedown the previous Wednesday.

“It’s really good -1 can’t see why we can’t go to Bathurst with a win in our sights,” Lowndes reported, moments after he and Neil Crompton had completed 100 laps at Winton.

“It’d be nice if we had a couple more days, but it’s responding to the changes we’re making - today’s been a series of five-lappers, make a change, then go out and see what it does.

“Today is really the finalisation of a lot of hard work by the team.

You always build a new car hoping it’s going to be better - Neil and I are very happy. We’re both getting the same feedback from it, which is gi-eat” The new car also features the first all-Gibson Ford V8 engine, of which there are but two -the one

1 can't see why we can't go to Bathurst with a win rr in our sights - Eraig Lowndes

already in the car and a race engine still on the dyno: “The engine has a different character to what we had - it’s totally different in tenns of the way the throttle moves and the relation of the throttle pedal to the engine.

It definitely feels strong.

“It’s just so good to finally get it out there.”

With Ford’s corporate Falcon now prominent on the bonnet ofthe cai', the new GMS Falcon retains its overall silver and black look, with the giant Ford on each flank less subliminal than before.

The presence of additional corporate support is restricted to Mobil signage on each lower rear flank, while additional sponsors GMC and Hewlett-Packard are off-car.

motorsport news

NEWS No Calder, no WA Seto rapt for 2002 V8s with new Falcon GLENN Seton and Steven Richards go into Bathurst with a smile on their faces following testing of a brand new FTR Falcon.

Breaking from the team’s previous ‘in-house’ philosophy, the new car utilises a Beehag-built shell and, according to Seton, it has overcome some of the problems the team has been battling this year.

‘Immediately, it responds to tweaks and changes,” Gleim told us.

“We were a bit frustrated with the existing car as it didn’t have the front end grip we wanted and it wouldn’t respond significantly to changes. Now we can make changes and feel and measure a difference.'

The team stayed on at Winton after the Shell series race and reported a half second improvement with the new car.

‘We’re pretty happy with the way it’s looking already,” Seton continued.

‘Unfortunately, we don’t have time to modify the second car in a hurry, so that’ll be done for next season...

AVESCO is set to publish the 2002 V8 Supercar calendar at Bathurst, With the number of rounds cut by one and, we hear, both Calder and WA out of the loop, where will the mystery race take place? Watch this space.

■ TEGA's decision to implement a control ECU for engine management systems in 2002 will be the subject of a formal tender process after an initial decision to award the contract to MoTeC - biggest current supplier in the V8 field - was overturned.

A list of criteria is to be circulated to interested parties shortly.

■ A wild rumour buzzing around this week was Mark Noske being on the outer at Bud Racing. "I'm definitely there - that's a weird one," he told us on Monday, The Bud Ford has done four days of testing in the lead-up to Bathurst, with two at Calder and two at Phillip Island.

■ The PROCAR championship round to be held at Oran Park won't be a night race as originally planned.

Instead it will revert to a three-day format on November 23-25 due to the 'Rumba' concert in Sydney at Stadium Australia on the Saturday night. So we reckon that leaves teenage popstar Mandy Moore free to come to Oran Park on Sunday ...

■ Team owners of the fledgling Future Tourer V8 category met recently and have formed a team owners group, to push the interests of the category. There are moves afoot, it seems, to distance the category from the TOCA camp in preference to a link with the promoter-controlled Power Tour categories.

■ At the same time, having fallen out with AVESCO over sanctioning fees and lost his 2002 V8 Supercar round, we hear that Bob Jane - along with other interested parties - may challenge CAMS' right to on-sell the 'Australian Touring Car Championship' name and rights to the V8 group...

■ No Southern Hemisphere sour grapes, but the F3000 websites have been abuzz with rumours about F3000 champ Justin Wilson's bizarre qualifying efforts - like his first flying lap pole at the Hungaroring, where everyone else's best came as usual on laps four or five. The scurrilous rumours are suggesting a volatile fuel additive which provides instant results and then evaporates before the car finishes its run. Certainly, the timing - and margin - of Wilson's efforts raised a lot of eyebrows at the time. No proof, of course, but tongues are, it seems, wagging.

28 sepiemiter 2001

5

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Queenslander get

I’ll take it from here: Raikkonen, reflected in Mika’s glasses, takes over from Hakkinen in 2002.

(Photos by Marsh/BothweUJ

by JOE SAWARD AS exclusively predicted by Motorsport News as far back as April this year, two-time world champion Mika Hakkinen is stepping down from the McLaren-Mercedes team to spend time with his family.

The impressive Kimi Raikkonen will move from Sauber-Petronas to join David Coulthard at McLaren for 2002.

“I’m tired, that’s the reason I need to take a break,” said the Finn. “You travel all around the world constantly and you are under pressure constantly.”

Nevertheless, Formula I’s allure may yet tempt him back, having professed earlier in the year that he would not know what to do with himself without racing, and McLaren is first in line if the Finn’s passion is relit.

In 2000, Hakkinen’s thirst for FI appeared sated however, and news that wife Erja,- to whom he is so publicly devoted, was expecting their first child added to the attractions of life outside the travelling circus.

He rallied enough to' cause - - n Michael Schumacher a few; sleepless nights but he has yet to fully regain his old form.

For all the talk of Mika stepping down, however, the indications are that McLaren,was not prepared to pick up an option on him, especially when Raikkonen’s availability was likely to evaporate very rapidly, and particularly given that Ferrari were very keen to gi'ab him as a replacement for when Schumacher decides to retire.

Two years of underperformance is believed to have left him facing a performance-related pay deal for 2002 with which neither Hakkinen 6

nor manager Keke Rosberg were comfortable and, so, this appears to be the most amicable parting of the ways.

For Raikkonen, it’s made for a meteoric rise to the top of Formula 1, having jumped from Formula Renault straight to the ‘big league’.

“I’m really pleased to have achieved several point scoring finishes with the Sauber team after they gave me the chance to show what I could do in Formula 1,” said Raikkonen.

“I really want to thank Peter (Sauber)for helping me to take the opportunity.”

McLaren principal Ron Dennis was cagey about the situation but, with Raikkonen and David Coulthard on the race team and

Alex Wurz retained as number three, he declared that all the drivers have contracts that can be measured in ‘years’.

This rales Hakkinen out of a McLaren drive in 2003 but, should the racing bug bite hard enough to coax the Finn out of retirement.

Jaguar has made its interest in hiring him no secret.

There is believed to be a one year’s ‘gardening leave’ clause, precluding Hakkinen from driving for another team immediately after leaving McLaren, but if Ford chooses to jettison Eddie Irvine at the end of 2002, there will be few other bankable stars available - so we may not have seen the last of The Flying Finn just yet...

She sure beats the Mazda wagon!

Wayne Wakefield gets his big chance at Bathurst on October 7.

Kimi arrives, DC is wary

McLAREN'S effective team leader in 2002, David Coulthard, is not anticipating an easy ride from his new team-mate Kimi Raikkonen as the open policy for the team’s drivers to go racing is going to keep him on his mettle.

The young Finn is clearly in a hurry to progress from points contender at Sauber to championship challenger at McLaren, as his current boss Peter Sauber explained: "Kimi said that with this car, he could be the youngest world champion in history and for him it was an absolute must to go in this direction," Coulthard has expressed very mild reservations about the new arrival; "I'm not looking forward to it, but that's not to say that I don't welcome Kimi to the

Sauber: youth or experience?

team," Coulthard said.

"I think you just drive the car, 1 really do. 1 won my 21st Grand Prix, and he (Raikkonen) can win the fourth GP of next year to equal what I did.

"What's the big deal if you are good enough to get the job done?"

PETER Sauber must now decide whether to go for a proven and experienced driver (such as Heinz-Harald Frentzen) or to take another gamble, as has proved so successful with Kimi Raikkonen, and pick a new rising star.

His test team went to Mugeilo last week and ran 20year-old Brazilian Felipe Massa, the European Formula 3000 Champion, who impressed the team's head of engineering Jacky Eeckelaert, There have been suggestions in recent days that Sauber is also looking at Fernando Alonso and at Jaguar's test driver Andre Lotterer.

- JOE SAWARD motorsport news

kefield in

; dream call-up to Pirtek Racing for V8 Supercar 1000

by PHIL BRANAGAN WAYNE Wakefield heads to Bathurst next week with the chance of, perhaps, winning the V8 Supercar 1000.

The Queenslander will partner Marcos Ambrose in the Stone Brothers Racing/Pirtek Falcon AU, replacing Greg Crick, who left the team following the Queensland 500.

“Ross Stone called me from Winton,” said Wakefield last week, “and told me that they wanted to put me in with Marcos.

“He said he would call back on the following Monday, and it was the longest couple of days of my

Wakefield, 31, has had two V8 starts at the Mountain, sharing with Dean Canto in 1999 and Ryan McLeod last year in the Chiko Commodore. He also shared Malcolm Rea’s Toyota Carina in the Super Touring race there in 1998.

Wakefield has done little racing this season, taking second in the Lakeside round of the Konica V8 Supercar Series, as well as some outings in his famed Mazda wagon Club Car. In the 2000 Konica Series, he put on a memorable battle with David Besnard at Lakeside, the two drivers having several clashes during the races.

They are now team-mates ...

WHILE Wakefield has secured his seat, we hear that there were a number of other drivers in the frame to drive the car including Craig Lowndes.

While everyone concerned has denied the rumour reported in the last issue of Motorsport News, we have been told that there was, in fact, some serious consideration given to having Lowndes join Ambrose in the SBR Falcon and having another driver share the Gibson entry with Neil Crompton.

There were a number of obstacles in the way to doing such a deal which, ultimately, saw the status quo preserved - but it would have been the story of the year if it had happened!

NEWS n The Konica V8 Supercar Challenge at Bathurst will mark the first time that the same class of car that will compete in the 1000 will run as a support race as well. Leading the list of drivers is Wayne Wakefield, who will drive his Uncle Ben's Commodore in addition to his Pirtek Falcon duties. Also doubling up is Michael Simpson who will drive his own EL Ford in the Saturday morning 30-lapper. Dean Crosswell will make his first V8 appearance since Bathurst 1999, driving the Delta Europcar VS of Imrie Motorsport, while Konica racers Luke Sieders, Mai Rose, Tim Rowse, Daniel Miller, Rod Salmon, Kevin Monday, Wesley May and Phonsy Mullan are all down to run the 30-lapper. n Following its split with Dale Brede, NRC Racing will have a presence at Bathurst. Ric Shaw has entered his VS Commodore in the '1000 under the Melbourne team's franchise. Bathurst veteran Mike Conway will be along to co-drive. n Ron Giliard will be back with Lansvale Racing at Bathurst. Giliard, who used to run the team’s cars from his Ballina, NSW workshop, will return to the team to oversee the Trevor Ashby/Steve Reed Commodore VX, while team manager Wally Storey looks after the Cameron McConvilleMick Bates car. n Don't forget your toothbrush, Bezzy. We hear that David Besnard and Matthew White will be the blokes to see at Bathurst and Indy for free chockie bars. The Caltex Havoline Falcon will bear allegiance to Flershey's chocolate bars and some lucky punter could win a trip to Surfers with Hershey's. See your local Caltex servo for details.

Seat switchers; As it showed at the Queensland 500, allfour HRT drivers - Skaife. Bright, l.otighiusi and Mezi-ra (Photo hy Dirk Khvsmilh) are capable ofrunning a HRT car at thefront oj the V8 Supercar WOO.

HRT does the splits THE Holden Racing Team will definitely split its two regular drivers Mark Skaife and Jason Bright for the V8 Supercar 1000, though the only question that remains to be answered with finality is regarding who drives with who.

HRT team manager Jeff Grech confirmed to Motorsport News that the duo, who finished fourth at the Queensland 500, would be split, having taken into account their championship positions.

Instead, Skaife will team up with Tony Longhurst in #1, while Tomas Mezera will join Jason Bright in

#2, though the team had a final test at Phillip Island on Tuesday to finalise the pairings.

With the championship in the balance, it’s not the first time that HRT has split its options with an overall Shell Championship Series result in mind.

In 1999 it split Craig Lowndes and Skaife, with Cameron McConviile and Paul Morris driving with the two regular drivers respectively. The Lowndes/ McConviiie combination finished second with Skaife/Morris third, clinching Lowndes’s third title.

-AARON NOONAN

n Works Volkswagen GTP pilots Tim Leehey and Matt Coleman are heading to Germany to compete in a round of the Beetle Cup championship that uses the 2.8-litre V6, 18-inch wheels and upgraded brakes. The race is the weekend after Bathurst at Oschesleben. The team has been busy testing in preparation for the Bathurst TwoHour race at Eastern Creek and was joined by enduro partners Will Davison and Stewart McColl. n GT-Performance championship leader Brett Peters has withdrawn from the upcoming Bathurst TwoHour race to concentrate on his championship campaign. "It is extremely disappointing to have to withdraw from the 2 hour Bathurst GTP race," said Peters. "But the team has to prioritise our campaign and the non-championship race is, at this stage, not in our best interests," Geoff Morgan was slated to handle the co-driving duties.

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28 SeDtemlier 2001

Zanardi

by PHIL MORRIS

Brickyard blues; The show will go on in Indianapolis this weekend. .Pbof itn SuM-ti-l'thJf'i-s/

US GP goes on THE horrific events in America in the week leading up to the Italian Grand Prix have left the running of this year's race at Indianapolis under severe scrutiny.

As the USA battens down the hatches against a repeat of the terrorist attacks that saw thousands of lives, the World Trade Centre and a section of the Pentagon destroyed, the sport may yet find the movement of all the teams by air a hurdle as security is immeasurably tightened.

European Aviation boss and Minardi principal Paul Stoddart is well-placed to understand the pressures the heightened security will mean to the tight schedule of Formula 1's transatlantic travel.

"We're all going to have to be a bit patient with delays around airports and security checks that may seem unnecessary and quite annoying at times but are actually necessary if we're ever going to prevent - or even attempt to prevent - what happened," said Stoddart.

However, all equipment, bar Ferrari's, has flown from Amsterdam to the United States and was due to have landed as we closed for press. Ferrari's equipment was flying direct from Italy after a thorough examination.

- NICK GARTON

Michael's time away FERRARI'S hard working test driver, Luca Badoer, has continued his punishing regime by completing three days of testing at the team’s Fiorano test track as Michael Schumacher, who was scheduled to join Badoer, has been rested prior to the US GP. Schumacher has been making the most of the time away, which was rumoured to have included an offer from the team for him to opt out of travelling to the USA if he so chose. The possibility of Schumacher choosing to sit out the event brought sharp words from FIA President Max Mosley, who intimated that such a move would see him sidelined for the rest of the season.

“The team is allowed to change the number 1 driver once in a season, so he could step down without any repercussions,” said Mosley. “But if by doing so he brought the sport into disrepute, that would be a different matter. What Michael must remember is that drivers come and go while Formula 1 stays.'

- JOE SAWARD 8

ALEX Zanardi is recovering from the accident that has cut short his cai’eer at the Lausitzring in Germany.

The two-time CART champion had both legs amputated after a tenifying 320kmh-plus collision with Alex Tagliani late in the maiden CART event in Europe last week. He was airlifted to the Intensive Care Unit of Klinikum Berlin-Marzahn hospital where he has since undergone foLlow-up sm'gerj'to assist healing his injuries.

Tagliani escaped with only minor bruising in the incident and raced at Rockingham on the weekend in the UK. Reports say that Zanardi, who was put into a medically-induced coma for several days, has taken the news of his condition well, saying that he will still be able to spend time with his wife Daniela and son Niccolo. He was apparently alert enough to ask about progress of the CART event in England,last weekend.

Zanardi pitted late in the race in Germany, and was heading back onto the track in fourth position when he lost control of his Mo Nunn Racing Reynard/Honda. The car skipped across the grass and drove up onto the track where Zanardi corrected, only to be hit just in front of the left-front sidepod from behind by Tagliani.

While the field trailed around behind the Pace Car - and eventually finished imder the yellow flag -Zanardi was attended to by track marshals. Arteries in both legs were damaged severely and medical updates indicated that he initially lost up to 70 percent of his blood supply.

Zanardi is one of the most popular drivers in the series’ history and many drivers, crews and officials wore a pineapple logo in England last weekend as a tribute to their comrade. Zanardi carried a pineapple emblem on the back of his helmet through his career.

Zanardi won 15 races in his CART career, the last coming at the Gold Coast in 1998.

“Alex is one of the most popular drivers ever to run in our event,” said Honda Indy 300 spokesman Brett Murray.“When he did the donuts at the Honda Hairpin after winning in 1998, the crowd showed how much they loved him.

The race of his life: Alex Zanardi leaves the pits at the Lausitzring in typical Zanardi-style. {Pholos by Boyd/Bolhwell and SuUon-lmages)

“He is, and will always be, one of the great friends of everyone associated with our event. He will always be welcome on the Gold Coast and we wish him and his family every possible good fortune for his recovery.”

Nunn withdrew Zanardi’s entry from Rocldngham but is expected to field the Pioneer-backed car at the next round of the series at Houston on October 7.

No driver has been named for the ride, though former AllAmerican Racers driver Alex Barron is thought to be favourite for the seat.

For more on Zanai-di,see page 31 For CART race reports from Gennany and the UK,see page 23 Boiorspuri news

NEWS

recovering

BATHURST BATHURST BATHURST n ALL THE STORiES BEHIND THE BIG RACE Our unique look at all the whys, hows, and wherefores that helped shape the 1000.

IMG holds NZ breath WHILE Bathurst air travellers are looking okay,IMG is holding its hreath in relation to the New Zealand V8 Supercar round.

With Qantas taking up interstate slack and regional airline Hazelton (formerly an Ansett subsidiary) due to resume its Sydney-Bathurst service, air travel to Bathurst looks - apart from some delays and inevitable queueing - to be back on track, despite the recent and wellpublicised demise of Ansett Airlines.

While several teams have been able to rebook air travel, some are taking no chances and driving to Mount Panorama, many teams to which MN spoke having made plans some time ago.

The fate of the November 10/11 race in Auckland now hangs with Air New Zealand, While (sea) freight for the competing cars is unaffected, promoter IMG has all its sponsored travel aiTangements for the team personnel with Air New Zealand, which was the subject ofimminent collapse rumours as we closed for press.

“If Air New Zealand does go down,IMG will have a job on to find an alternative,” AVESCO CEO Wayne Cattach reported on Monday.

- CHRIS LAMBDEN 28 September 2001

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PLUS

AUATRAUIA'S FAV(

On the lookout: Brad Jones and the OzEmail crew are on-hold waiting to see ff'htilo by Ditk Klynsmilh} whether John Clcland will he. stranded in Scotland or not.

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BRAD Jones will be partnered at Bathurst by John Cleland maybe ...

The OzEmail Racing Team is looking for a stand-by driver to fill should Cleland be stranded in Scotland by international airline restrictions due to the escalating dramas in the Middle East.

"It will probably be alright," said Brad Jones this week. "We have spoken with John and with Lauda Air, and neither have a problem at the stage, but we will keep an eye on things anyway."

Jones is yet to speak to any drivers, but the logical candidate is Neal Bates. Without a drive since the withdrawal of Paragon Racing's entn/ from the race, Bates has recent V8 Supercar experience, driving with Ford Tickford Racing at the mountain last year.

Cleland was expecting to arrive in Sydney next Monday.

- PHIL BRANAGAiM

n Indy-go-round Formula One descends upon Indianapolis. Can Williams come up with Juan more before Murray hangs up the microphone forever? n CART Next stop; Houston n Sanremo WRC Acknowiedged Bathurst experts McRae and Burns duke it out.

Photo by SuttOTF

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Contents correct at time of going to press 9

home of

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motorsport] Shell Championship Series V8 Supercars * .Bathurst Oct 7 .Rd ll Nov 11 . . .Auckland

.Rd 12

Dec 2 ....Sandown

n Rd 13

Konica V8 Supercar Series * Ocl 6

Bathurst

(non Championship)

looking one: n Briscoe and teamj mate Cesar ? Campanico both ' got silverware at Blnetto, but Briscoe got the series as well ...

U^

RYAN Briscoe celebrated his 20th birthday a day early when he wrapped up the Italian Fomuda Renault championship at Binetto last weekend.

Briscoe was in command of the championship’s penultimate round right from the start, topping the tables in qualifying to line the Prema Powerteam car up on pole.

The Australian, who was placed into the series as part of his long-

(Photo by Sutton-lmages) FIA Formula One World Oct14

Championship Suzuka

.Rd18

* - denotes F3000 round also V.

gjJ

SOOcc World Grand Prix Motorcycle Championship * .Rd 13 Oct 7 ... .Motegl Oct 14 .. . .Philip Island ..

.Rd 14

Oct 21 ...Sepang Nov 4 ... .Rio De Janiero

.Rd16

.Rd 15

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X*

1

sa -

IvFedEx CART Championship Series * Oct 7

Houston

.Rd18

Oct 14 ... .Laguna Seca ..

Oct 28 . .. .Surfers Paradise

.Rd19

Nov 4

.Rd 21

Fontana

.Rd 20

World Rally Championship* Oct 7 San Remo n Rd 11 Nov 1 ... .Australia ..

,Rd 12

Nov 25 . . .Great Britain

,Rd13

Nations Cup* Oct 25 ... .Surfers Paradise ..

.Rd7

Nov 24 ...Oran Park

.Rd8

Faulkner ponders

ALMS/EUVIS Sports Cars Petit Le Mans ●R d 13 Oct 21 ....Charlotte ...

■Rd 14

Nov 11 ...Sepang

●Rd 15

SBK World Super Bike Championship 2002* Mar 10 . . .Spain Mar 24 . . .Australia Apr 7

South Africa

Pressing on: Faulkner will share with Peter Doulman at Bathurst and still race in 2002. ,Rd1 .Rd2 .Rd3

April 21 . . .Japan

,Rd4

May 12 . . .Italy

.Rd5

May 26 . . .Great Britain

.Rd6

rt en1 home of

motorsport]

event-dates in this calendar were correct, at the I■ Alland/or time of printing. Please consult any individual tracks associations for date changes.

I _ Series or events telecast on Network Ten are — I

marked with an asterisk. Check your local

HAVING turned down an opportunity to join Pirtek Racing for Bathurst, John Faulkner will be joined by Bathurst veteran Peter Doulman in the JFR VX Commodore for the V8 Supercar 1000, and at the same time, hinted that he may not drive full-time in 2002.

“We’ve led the race twice, we’ve been in a position to stand on the podium and had it taken away,” said Faulkner.

“It’s one of the better prepared (assaults) as far as our normal routine. We’ve saved lots of good componentry all year, we’ve got a new spec engine combination that we’ll be trying, some new suspension stuff and a new co10

driver. I think we’ll have some genuine speed up there.

“We’ve been lacking engine all year and that’s directly attributed to budget so we’ve bitten the bullet and saved the best till last.”

Faulkner’s car will more than likely carry International Dynapak backing for the 1000, but will definitely carry it in New Zealand and more than likely Indy.

“This is the opportunity I have been waiting for,” said Doulman.

“The last couple of seasons I have been struggling with gross underfunding and this translated directly to our on-track performance.”

Doulman, a long-time runner with John Cotter, won his class on debut at Bathurst in 1989 in an ex-

(Pholo by Neil Hammond)

Brock BMW M3, with the M3 Motorsport team winding back its involvement at the beginning of the year when they sold their Level 2 franchise to Team Kiwi and Gatorade pulled back their support.

On the issue of driving next year, Faulkner said that he would definitely be running one car in 2002 with an eye on two.

“If I’m in the seat (full time), I don’t know - it depends on how I feel. It gets harder and harder every day to get the enthusiasm.”

Faulkner said that he had his eye on several young guns but said it was a matter of “finding the right one that’s got the enthusiasm.”

-AARON NOONAN motorsport news

NEWS teim deal with Toyota, was beaten away at the lights, but recovered quickly and went on to take a solid win ahead of team mate Cesar Campanico and Drumel Motorsport driver Mirko Venturi.

Briscoe’s main championship rival, Fabio Carbone, whom he needed to outscore by only a point to sew up the championship, crossed the line in fourth place.

‘The main thing was to finish in front of Carbone,” Briscoe said after his third-straight victory.

“Pole was on the dirty side of the track, but I pressured Venturi into the second corner, got underneath him, and we just managed the race from there.”

Briscoe has one round of the series remaining, at Estoril in October, and will make another appearance in Formula 3 in the meantime. This time, it will be the final round ofthe French series at Magny-Cours, at which the dominant British cars of Carliu Motorsport and drivers Takmna Sato and Anthony Davidson are due to appear.

Red hot Rod THIS is the new-look Falcon which Rodney Forbes will race at Bathurst next week.

Forbes has DataDot Technology to sponsor the Gibson Motorsport Falcon.

DataDot Technology has pioneered the spraying of "data dots" with vehicle

Ausmspm.cm

identification numbers onto vehicles as a deterrent to the most professional of car thieves.

Forbes will share the car with David 'Truckie' Parsons at Mount Panorama and run the car in DataDot colours for the rest of the season.

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^ *

n The Porsche GT3 has received a revised gearshift kit, as recommended

by PROCAR, to resolve shift quality and gear selection problems which have been the result of abnormal wear in the standard item in the Nations Cup series. The kit is available from Fitzgerald Racing. n Long-time expat Aussie Neil Cunningham will be at the Mountain, sharing Phil Polites's HSV GTS VX in the GT-P 2-Hour. Cunningham has been running in the British GT Championship in recent times. Another HSV pilot to confirm his co-driver is Peter Floyd. V8 star Cameron McConviiie will again join Floyd after the duo dominated their class in the recent Clarion Sandown 500 until diff failure put them out in the second stint. n Obviously, Alex Tagliani is still coming to terms with the incident with Alex Zanardi in Germany a fortnight ago. "There's not five minutes that go by that I don't start thinking about him," said the Canadian as he prepared for the Rockingham 500. "I brush my teeth, I think about him ... In the shower I think about him. I don't think about the crash; I think about the guy.

Nothing will take Alex out of my head, probably forever." Tagliani was consoled by Zanardi's wife, Daniela, who assured him that the accident wasn't his fault.

"She was really nice with me," he said, "She didn't want to see me with the feelings, the responsibility of guilt.

She sent my mum a letter to help.

When I was talking to my mum after the accident, I was crying and didn't feel right." n Expect CART to make an announcement on its future engine specs at the next round at Houston on the Bathurst weekend. We hear that it will be a normally aspirated formula in line with the IRL, though with less technical restraint to make Ford and Honda happy. n Among visitors to Rockingham's Champ Car race was Juan Montoya, who recently became engaged to girlfriend Connie. Also on hand was Luciano Burti, making his first public appearance since his Spa crash, Johnny Herbert, F3000 Champ Justin Wilson, David Coulthard, Mark Blundell (working for BBC TV with Leigh Diffey) and Jenson Button. n What, another Aussie World Champion. Maybe ... Andrew Pitt is gunning for the World Supersport title in Italy this weekend. The Kawasaki team is bringing newly-developed gearboxes to Imola to help the 25year-old close the 11 point gap to Yamaha's Paolo Casoli "It's crunch time in the championship, and Kawasaki are throwing their support behind me and doing everything they can to help me win," said Pitt.

28

2001

11

Jordan tests

¥ :

Wilson tries FI power FORMULA 3000 Champion Justin Wilson did a very commendable job in his first test for Jordan Grand Prix at Silverstone.

The 23-year-old Yorkshireman, who ended his F3000 season with the highest number of points ever scored in a single season of F3000, impressed the team during his two days of running. Wilson tested alongside Jean Alesi after India's Narain Karthikeyan had his chance on the first day of the testing.

Ian Phillips, Jordan's director of business affairs, said: "We were incredibly impressed with Justin and the way he handled the wet and dry conditions with equal confidence, particularly as it was such a compromise to get him in the car.

"He really was extremely

good and clearly has a lot of talent. Fie certainly is somebody we are considering for next year."

Wilson, below left, is believed to have the backing of Jordan's title sponsors Benson & Fledges, the British tobacco firm keen to have a driver of its own nationality in the team some two years after its fingers were burnt with Damon Flill's disastrous final season in the sport.

Wilson is in competition for the drive with veteran Alesi and British Formula 3 Champion Takuma Sato, who is looked favourably upon by Jordan's engine-supplier Flonda.

Wilson is scheduled to have a run with Williams after the United States GR although he is understood to be under option to Jordan.

- JOE SAWARD

Jaguar cans Formula 3team -but caher JAMIS Gociittiiiey% 2002IF3 plans l;ook to be secui;ed, despite the likely closure of the Jaguar F3 team^ The shut-down had been deeidedprior tothe departure of former team boss liobby Rahal:, who bad:agreed an alternate plan; with; Courtney's manager Alan Gqw. However, the subseq,u:ent departupe of Rahat himself again- cast a cloud over arrangements, although: Gow last week moved;to assure supporters that"something.;i:S in-place f0;r James for .2,002."

While those plans aren't to be reveaied; until later in the year, MiN-understands that Biritish F3 will-still!be Courtney's focus.

Rahahhad' we bear, agreed; to fund! James' F3 Season with .2001 champioRS Carlin IWlotorsport - although new Jag:Racing: boss Niki tauda is less inclined:to hand over what would:amount to virtually A$1i milion to fund,it. .'More-recen-tly,, we hear that former Stewart R3 and Jaguar -Ft engineer Andy-Miller is close to finalising negotiations

m

Photos by Sm

t-

... and Karthikeyan DESPITE another unspectacular FI test, India's Formula 1 hopeful Narain Karthikeyan, above right,tbe first driver from the subcontinent to take the wheel of a Formula 1 car, has mapped out a two-year plan to get to the top of the sport.

Karthikeyan currently lies 14th in Formula Nippon, which is better than now-Minardi driver Alex Yoong, but not spectacular.

The Indian ended up 2s off the pace of team leader Jean Alesi but remains upbeat.

"I was happy with the way I drove, although it would have been better if it was dry," he explained. "Everything in FI is so different from any other category and it impressed me in

12

every way. I found the brakes and aerodynamic package to be remarkable. It was strange to drive with all the stars of Formula One and, of course, Jean is the master in these conditions. I enjoyed every bit of it!"

Karthikeyan tested with Jaguar Racing earlier this year to fulfi l a long-standing commitment since the team's days as Stewart-Ford, for whose junior team Karthikeyan raced in British Formula 3.

As India bids for Grand Prix status, the ascent of Karthikeyan will, however, be a feature of the Formula 1 landscape for some time to come.

- JOE SAWARD

m

Grid Drama at

THE hours before the start of the Italian Grand Prix saw quite a furore in the paddock as the drivers, led by Michael Schumacher, attempted to gain an agreement for there to be no attempt at overtaking in either of the opening chicanes on the grounds of safety.

An impromptu meeting of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association led by Schumacher - its President - put forward the motion on Sunday morning requiring a 100 percent vote of approval from the drivers if it was to succeed.

This it did not get, as Jacques Villeneuve protested at the idea and was subsequently joined in his

cause by Jenson Button and Enrique Bernoldi.

The opposition resulted in a furious argument between the di’ivers on then- pai'ade in front of the fans. Schumacher told those watching on in bewilderment of his proposal and that an unnamed driver had dissented. When asked who it was he said,“It’s obvious. He is short.”

Villeneuve was unrepentant however,saying:“Fm a racing driver. I came here to race.”

Subsequently however the team managers got involved and ordered their men not to sign any kind of petition or face severe consequences.

Arrows principal Tom motorsport news

NEWS

Webber for '02 FI ride to buy- the.F3,team-from J.ag,uaF aFidi that Coartiaey's F3 season: :may be with that:fecoHstitutedi j team, as.part 4.if the^.overall purehase deal.

While things are up ie the air there is,-it seems, further interest in theyoungi Aussie^ Courtney was recently > approached’fay AMG —which runs Mercedes' CTM; programme...

Hakkinen move opens GP seats

WITH a disappointing F3000 season end behind him, Mark Webber’s attention has returned to FI, with a solid three-day Silverstone test last week and increased hope of a 2002 FI race drive following the Mika Hakkinen ‘retirement’confirmation.

“Sure, with Mika gone, it’s one more spot opened up further down the grid,” Webber told us this week.

“There are all sorts of combinations and deals being rumoured, so I just have to sit tight and see what Bruno (Michel) comes up with.”

In the meantime Webber got his first serious run in the currentspec Benetton-Renault during the

team’s testing at Silverstone, last week.

While bad weather limited track time early on, Mark was able to get some reasonable dry running on the final day.

Despite running a marginally older spec engine - some 40hp down - the Aussie matched team regular Jenson Button in the diy.

“It’s good to get a fair run in the current car,” Webber told us. “I’ve done a lot of electronic and longer distance work through the year, so 1 enjoyed the opportunity to run with virtually cuiTent spec.

“Jenson outqualified Fisi at Silverstone, so it’s one of his best tracks. I was pleased with the day’s efforts.”

- CHRIS LAMBDEN

Albert Park 2002? Webber is closing in on an FI drive. (Phoiobysutton-images)

Monza

Walkinshaw and Benetton boss Flavio Briatore were quite forceful in their attitude.

“It’s ridiculous to try to change with an hour before the race.As far as I can see, everything is 100 percent normal,” said Briatore. n Any driver who signs this should next year be racing if with another team.

Bernie Ecclestone was another one left deeply unimpressed by the GPDA’s ideas. Finally Schumacher capitulated, walking up and down on the grid to remind his supporters that when the lights went out the race was on, as originally planned.

-NICKGARTON 28 September 2001

70s Flashback YES,that name on the side of Alan Jones's 1979 Williams FW07 is 'bin Laden', as in that of the world's most wanted man, Osama bin Laden.

Mohammed bin Laden founded a Saudi Arabia-based business conglomerate, with interests in buiiding and shipping, and which has close ties to Saudi's ruling royal family. As such, his company was one of those involved with Williams in the late 1979s, including Dallah and Albilad.

Mohammed bin Laden had 12 children, most of whom continue to work in the family's business. But his son Osama bin Laden is suspected of being the instigator of the attacks on the World Trade Centres and the Pentagon on September 11.

And no, we are not suggesting AJ or Williams did anything wrong in accepting sponsorship from the bin Laden company. It's just a coincidence, that's all.

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n Suzuki may have been struggling in MotoGPs and World Superbikes, but they will have one trophy for the . cabinet in Hamamatsu. Castrol Suzuki's Christian Lavielle, Brian Morrison and Laurent Brian won the recent Bol d'Or 24 Hour race at Magny Cours on their lOOOcc bike, clinching the FIM's Superproduction World Cup in the process. n Sarah Fisher and team owner Derrick Walker will have to look for a new backer in the Indy Racing League for 2002. Grocery chain Kroger has pulled out its backing for next year after Fisher has struggled for results since a runner-up result at Miami in the second race of 2001. n Also looking for a new backer is the League itself. Its reputed US$50 million ($99m) deal over five years with dot com company Northern Light will be terminated at the end of the year. The downturn in the dot com industry is the main reason. n Both Reynard and Lola are eyeing up expansion into the Indy Racing League as early as 2003. Both companies, who supply the CART series, are thought to be developing chassis that suit the IRL's new chassis rules that will come in 18 months time. Lola has admitted that work is ongoing on an IRL car that is expected to be ready at the end of the year, while Reynard has retained the IRL chassis producing section of Riley & Scott despite selling the company, and is believed to have well advanced plans for an IRL car. n The British Touring Car Championship will go down to the season finale at Brands Hatch, with six points separating Vauxhall works drivers Yvan Muller and Jason Plato.

Muller and satellite Vauxhall driver Phil Bennett took the wins in the weekend's round at Donington, though it was the closest anything other than a Vauxhall has come to winning. Tom Ferrier (Alfa Romeo 147) inherited the lead in the feature race having made his compulsory stop and switched to wet tyres considering the changeable weather, though diving oil pressure put him out. n AMG Mercedes driver Uwe Alzen stole his second DTM win on the last lap last weekend at Zandvoort in Holland. Alzen passed long-time race leader Christian Abt's Audi after the two had rubbed fenders in the last tour, taking what he described as "one of the best races", he's ever driven. n The ORECA Chrysler LMP has been withdrawn from the Petit Le Mans. While the car, which has only been seen at the Le Mans 24 Hours and Donington ELMS races, was entered, it now won't been seen until 2002.

13

Back in action D . * i-

\-:i

ijLim THE re-birth of the Clarion Sandown 500 has

been met with positive reaction from all corners.

The event, won by John Bowe and Tom Waring in a Prancing Horse Racing Ferrari 360, drew a three-day crowd of 20,400, leaving both promoter Jon Davison and PROCAR Australia keen for 2002.

"All of our feedback from the event has been

expectations - it's been quite overwhelming."

Bettes said that Clarion were very keen to be involved with the event in 2002, which is yet to be decided if it will form a round of the championship or be run as a stand-alone event. What will happen is that there won't be championship sprint races for the Nations Cup, GT-Performance and GTProduction classes next year.

—a O

by AARON NOQN^I^^ BIRRANA Racing, the most successful team in the history of the Formula Holden

and we think, with now a 12 month lead-in until the

The event will be telecast this weekend from

categoi-y, won’t be back in 2002 - at this stage.

Team owner Malcolm Ramsay confirmed to Motorsport News on Monday that the South Australian-

next event, teams will be better prepared the event and will build on the success of the first year.

"I think it achieved a level we were happy with - it met our first year expectations. The positive nature of the event has exceeded our

3;30pm on Network Ten's Trackside, which will be solely devoted to the Clarion Sandown 500.

based team, which has won seven Gold Stars with Paul Stokell,

For our.full coverage of the Clarion Sandown

Jason Bright, Simon Wills and Rick Kelly, won’t be in the open wheeler class next year.

“At his stage, we’re not going to

fantastic," said PROCAR Nations Cup manager Steve Bettes. "It's been strong and positive - it virtually ensures its status for the next five years

"It was too hard for the competitors this year but we didn't have a great deal of time this year but we were locked into running the championship races."

500, turn to page 66.

- AARON NOONAN

TOMAS Enge will finish the season with Frost Grand Prix following a promising debut at Monza.

The Czech driver drove a sensible race to

finish 12th and Alain Frost reported that he was “very satisfied with the work he has done this weekend”. Although Luciano Burti is up and about again, he underwent a series of medical checks after which it was recommended that he

does not race again until the end of the year.

The crash could put Burti out of contention for next year as well, as Prost wants to make a decision about driver by the end of October and Burti will not be in a position to commit himself until January.

The Prost team has also announced a new

testing deal that will see another Czech driver, Jaroslav Janis, named as a test driver for the remainder of the year.

At Monza, Prost was keeping close company 'with Saudi Ai-abian Prince Khalid bin al Waleed, who is rumoured to be buying into the team.

The team would like to keep Heinz-Harald Frentzen but cannot make him an offer until it

Fire this baby up and lets get going to Indy and Suzuka: Czech Tomas Enge will

the Prost-Acer team for the rest of the season alongside Heinz-Harald Frentzen.

has sorted out its budget for next year.

-JOESAWARD

(Photo by Marsh/Bothwett)

14

motorsport news

NEWS n Up to three Panozs will run in the Le Mans Series Race of Champions in Malaysia. In addition to the two factory cars, the Lanesra Racing machine, which won the final round of the ELMS in the hands of Richard Dean and Garry Formato, will also make the trip. Tomas Enge drove the car in the ELMS race in the Czech Republic.

Team owner Dave Simms is a mad football fan. Spell the team name backwards and you'll see why ... n Prodrive won't be the only ones fielding a Ferrari 550 Maranello in the Petit Le Mans. MSB Motorsport will field an example for Ralf Kelleners, former Volvo BTCC driver Kelvin Burt and Marino Franchitti, younger brother of Dario. The latter two have teamed up in a Porsche this year in the British GT series to win the GTO title.

=>holo by Dirk Klynsmith;

be in Formula Holden (next year),” said Ramsay.

Nothing’s ever set in stone but that’s the current situation.’

Ramsay said that he made his decision at the start of the year and had lost his enthusiasm ‘some time ago”.

‘We’ve had a really good year with two national championships (Simon Wills’s Konica Serieswinning Holden was prepared by Birrana) with Simon and Rick (but), I’m not unhappy about the decision.

‘We’ve had a lot of firsts this year, not in the sense of wins, but in the sense of doing things that hadn’t been done before.’

That included winning all 16 championship races between Kelly, Stokell and Wills, and finishing with a Birrana 1-2-3 at Winton with Kelly, Stokell and Brenton Ramsay doing the driving.

Ramsay said that he intended on keeping the Wills/Kelly

championship-winning Reynard 94D chassis as a piece of memorabilia with another car for sale.

Whether Ramsay re-assesses his options and the right deal to run a driver comes along to drive the car that is retained is another question.

The loss of Bin’ana doesn’t create a massive hole in the series, as the team has run one car for the majority of the season.

There’s plenty of chassis in the marketplace as well as interested drivers from Australia and overseas, in addition to Holden’s support, so the category is far from its

n James Thompson will be drafted into Honda's European Touring Car Championship team for the last two rounds at Estoril and Jarama alongside former BTCC team-mate Gabriele Tarquini in a bid for the manufacturer's crown. Alfa team NordautO have done the same, recruiting newly-crowned European F3000 Champion Felipe Massa alongside Fabrizio Giovanardi and Nicola Larini.

death.

‘It’s still looking good,” said team owner Kevin Murphy.

‘If you look at the number of overseas drivers looking at running and the cars committed to running next year as well as the ones out there in the marketplace, it’s looking OK.”

The last Birrana Champ? Rick Kelly’s dominant 2001 season was quite a way for the team to go out.

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n Danes Jan Lammers and Val Hillebrand have taken the penultimate round of the FIA Sports Car Championship at the Nurburgring, in their Judd VI0powered Dome. With one round to run, 23-year-old Italian, Marco Zadra (Ferrari 333SP) has been crowned champion.

(Photo by Marshall Cass)

MAlUiyiE FOLD: THE ULTIMATE TRACKSIDE FAIM-BOY 5ATvriksT 2ool - Its 6PsAt To Be thb MouhtAN A<5A>v1 KeAvV TO ABsfPB'M?

n Lexus has decided not to enter the British Touring Car Championship as a factory entrant. The company, which has been represented by privateer team Total Motorsport Racing’s IS200s, was tipped to make the move after favourable feasibility studies regarding the re-growth of the BTCC, but has elected to focus on building its dealer network.

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FI costs to rise?

E^SURANCE companies, reeling after the attacks on the US, have hiked their prices dramatically and airlines are having to look to governments to help them meet the payments necessary.

While this may work in the short-term, in the longer-term, there are fears that the high cost of insurance premiums will be passed onto passengers via ticket prices.

Insurance estimates suggest that the terrorist attacks in the US could cost them as much as US$40 billion and in the circumstances insurers are,worried that there will be further outrages and so have fears that some airlines will go out of business. Major cutbacks are being made and this is having an effect on other businesses, notably publishing, as all airline advertising has,in effect, stopped.

Formula 1 is a major user of the world’s international airline systems, although many flights in Europe are done with charter aircraft. On the flyaway races, however, the circus tends to use scheduled commercial aircraft. If ticket prices go crazy, the sport is facing either bigger budgets or reduced numbers of staff at races.

- JOE SAWARD

This is the iatest Hoiden Motorsport PR idea. Lock aii of the Hoiden-backed drivers(and some very nice iookingpromotionai ‘assistants’) into a recording studio and iet them j‘am’away. We reaiiy hope we never hear the CD recording- we don’t think our ears couid take the beating, it iooks iike they enjoyed themseives too much - note Paui Morris up the back... [

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motorsport news

NEWS

Them’s the brakes?

SOME teams may contemplate two brake pad changes during next week's V8 Supercar 1000.

The option was raised this week by Stone Brothers Racing team manager Ross Stone, who said that incorporating a stop over and above the compulsory single stop "was now an option."

As teams bid to have their

n Despite the claims that the provisional 2002 calendar released earlier in the month was bogus, the FIA has said that the French GP is likely to be moved to an earlier date in order to avoid a clash with soccer's World Cup Final. n Bernie Ecclestone recently took exception to being asked for his thoughts about this year's World Champions, Michael Schumacher and Ferrari. "It's wrong to call them World Champions," said Ecclestone.

"They could lose all their points before the end of the season..."

cars in 100 percent fighting trim for the final flat-out stint in the 1000km race. Stone suggested that a second new set of front pads was one way of ensuring that a car's brakes were optimum late in the race.

"A good team can change pads now in less than the time it takes to do fuel," he told Motorsport News this week. // So, it's a serious option.

Everything has to be as perfect as possible late in the race to enable your driver to simply go flat-out.

"Brake knock-off is a consideration, so a second, fresh set of pads is an obvious thought."

Teams have to make a compulsory stop for front brake pads in the V8 Supercar 1000 between laps 48 and 120.

Something worth watching for the Bathurst technophiles...

- CHRIS LAMBDEN

n Williams has tested both its junior drivers this week from the Petrobras F3000 team. Ricardo Sperafico and Antonio Pizzonia were run at separate times and no public mention is being made of their times as the team feels this would be unfair.

n Ralf Schumacher finds mother nature a bit of a chore - especially as she doesn't seem to operate at his frantic pace. Waiting nine months for a baby in particular seems to grate with the German: "If I want something I'm like a child, I want to have it yesterday," he said.

"Unfortunately, you can't accelerate everything, so I regret having to wait for the baby to arrive!"

Two stops for stoppers? Ross Stone reckons two pad changes may be the way to have the strongest car at the end of the race.

H!

n BAR is expected to launch its 2002 car in December of this year in preparation for a full test program starting on January 1, 2002, immediately after the end of the winter testing ban. This year's car arrived late and was crashed by Jacques Villeneuve, forcing the expensive London launch to show off only the new livery on a 2000 chassis.

- JOE SAWARD

(Photo by Marshall Cass)

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Max set for China may look to AGPC for FI help re-election MAX Mosley's strong stance in defence of Formula 1 continuing against the threat of terrorist attacks is another strong reason to suggest that he will succeed in his bid for re-election to the post this October.

"Anyone who can help the victims of the American disaster should do so.

Likewise, anyone who can help apprehend the perpetrators," said Mosley.

"The duty of the rest of us is to carry on as normal and make no concessions to terrorism."

The 61-year-old was due to have been challenged by Belgium's John Goossens, father of Formula 3000 racer Marc Goossens, but the Royal Automobile Club of Belgium contender is understood to have opted out of the challenge.

The advances in safety in international motor sport over the 10 years in which Mosley has been at the helm are also in the President's favour, but he is not without his detractors within the FIA's ranks who suggest that too little money was charged for the 100-year commercial rights to Formula 1 and from the purist lobby who feel that Mosley's drive to make the FIA-and Formula 1 - a major research facility into road safety is to the detractipn of traditional sporting competition.

- JOE SAWARD

CHINA has wanted to host a Grand Prix since 1991 when the government made available a 1000-acre parcel of land in Zhuhai for the construction of "a sports complex".

A large delegation from Shanghai appeared recently at the German GP, their intention being to organise a race for 2003.

In order to achieve this aim, it is expected that the race would have to be held on a temporary street circuit and the most likely scenario is that the

by NICK CARTON IT has been reported that Jean-Luc Gripond,financial director of the Prost Grand Prix team, has parted from the outfit as Prost continues to seek new investment for the 2002 season.

The upheavals at Prost in the last year have seen the Diniz family buy into the team, the sports marketing experts UFA employed to raise sponsorship and subsequently taken to court for not doing so and rumors of a sell out to Renault, an Arab Prince and the Delaey family the subject of heated conjecture.

Gripond has been the ' anchorman for all the Prost team’s

Chinese would seek help organising the race from organisations or individuals with experience in such matters. The most likely target for the Chinese is the Australian Grand Prix Corporation.

The obvious place for there to be a race in Shanghai would be Huang-p'u Park, where the city's most famous street, known as The Bund, runs alongside the Huang-p'u river. This is dominated by the old pre-war buildings of the colonial era.

- JOE SAWARD

financial dealings throughout, opening negotiations in partnership with Prost’s star quality as a former quadruple world champion and major player in Formula 1 circles as his trump card, but is believed to be moving to take a senior role in a major European soccer club.

Rumors also abound that the Diniz family is seeking a withdrawal from Prost after it bought into the team 12 months ago having failed to convince Prost to increase the family’s 40 percent stake in the team - which subsequently turned out to be an investment in areas other than the race team.

If the worst rumors are true, former driver Pedro Diniz has resigned, and that his father

Albilio offered Prost US$1($2)to take on the company in full and what are believed to be tens of millions of dollars of debt.

Prost, meanwhile, has been attempting to sell the remainder of the team for somewhat more than a single dollar to the Delaey family, owners of the Interbrew alcohol giant and Prince A1 Waleed of Saudi Arabia, whose highprofile investments already include Disneyland Paris, the Planet Hollj'wood restaurant chain j-the Four Seasons Hotel chain and the Daewoo Corporation of Korea.

Clearly, there is much work to he done on Prost's commercial future, and whether or not Gripond’s departure will affect the outcome remains to be seen.

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Foggy hurt in crash

EVEN after his retirement from international competition, Carl Fogarty is in the wars.

The four-time World Superbike champion was injured in a supermoto testing accident in Britain last week.

The former Ducati racer suffered a fractured tibia and fibula of his right leg, the same as the one broken early in his career, in a slow corner crash with the factory CCM supermoto team at Anglesey in North Wales, According to reports, he lost the front end of his bike and his leg became caught up as it cart-wheeled down the track.

Foggy is being treated by Prof Andy Carr, who treated his career-ending injuries from Phillip Island last season, and is expected to be back to full fitness in 8-10 weeks.

"Obviously, we are very concerned at the injury," said Fogarty's wife, Michaela..

"We had just managed to get him right with his shoulder so the last thing we needed now was an injury to his right leg".

WORLD Superbike Championelect Troy Bayliss will be staying with Ducati next season.

Ducati Corse confirmed last week that Bayliss will continue to ride for the Ducati Infostrada team, and that Ruben Xaus . (Ducati Infostrada) and Ben Bostrom (Ducati L&M)will also suit up for the Italian manufacturer.

Ducati CEO Carlo Di Biagio announced that the exceptional results achieved by all three riders in this year’s World Superbike Championship had led to them being reconfirmed for 2002.

“Ducati can consider itself to be totally satisfied with the results achieved by all of our riders, who have already been confirmed for next year”, said Di Biagio.

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Avon calling for Premier FI THE proposed Formula 1style race series Premier 1 Grand Prix is understood to be chasing a supply of control tyres from Avon.

The deal makes sense for the one-make Formula 1 rival, whose field of 24 identical Judd-powered Daliara chassis will each receive backing from senior soccer clubs throughout the world.

Avon currently supplies control tyres to the FIA Formula 3000 championship and FIA Thoroughbred Grand Prix Championship as well as the British Formula 3 and Formula Ford championships, and is well equipped to be able to

supply a control tyre for a high speed, high downforce series.

Premier 1 Grand Prix cars have been shown in the liveries of AC Milan, Juventus, Diportivo and Barcelona soccer clubs, with Benfica, above, Anderlecht and Leeds United having signed up for three of the 24-car field.

No drivers have yet been named, but the organizers anticipate a mix of known names from within the sport and young up-and-coming talent, with Belgian Bas Leinders being rumoured to have a deal to drive the Anderlecht car.

- NICK GARTON moiorsRorl news

MOTOGP

SUZUKI finally won a 500cc ; race in 2001vg but it was not World Champion Kenny , Roberts vvho took the win in i Valencia, i Sete Gibernau sent the locals ^ into orbit with his first GP win, ; salvaged from a: lottery of a race that had inoidents from:go to whoa:.

Gibernau^gambled correctly, startingithe race on a wet track on; slick tyres, while his rivals ; chose a variety of combinations ●whieh,proved:tO;be their undoing. ' Eoris Capirossi and! Carlos ●- Gheca failed' even to complete the formation lap, both falling; and starting from; the grid on the race , bike and from pit lane pn the ' spare respectively. Loris got all the way to Turn T before : throwing it away again - this time for good.

Qn intermediates, Valentino Rossi: i^d: the tip-toeing pack for eight laps on the djYing track.

But then, it starteilto; dry...

Gibernau (with a 1*80‘ degree ● i‘'bcreamer'iengine)/ took over on fap eight,'battling with Alex Barros, who led most of the rest o'f the race while Roberts (also: on. slicks but with a 'big, bang' .^enqinekehasedriin'third’

you’re a MoviStar

On the penultimate lap, Barros slid wide, Gibernau grabbed the lead:and that settled the race.

"It's hard for me to say what the team went through this year and this win means SO much to us," grinned Gibernau after the race.

"The first few laps were very difficult because the carbon brakes wouldn't work in the cold conditions. Valentino ran away at the front but I knew he was on a cut tyre so I could see that he would come back to us. It was one of the most difficult races I have ever been in." ●ir, where were the stars? Max Biaggi, who started from pole, was left standing at the start and, on a intermediate front and cutone-one-side slick rear, stood no chance and was TOth at the finish.

He finished one spot up on Rossi, whose tyres were mincemeat at the end of the race, while Garry McCoy took i:2th, one spot ahead of Anthony West, who was on slicks and. with the Dee Cee Honda fouling because it was running so slowly, was lapped before

conditions turned,to his favour.

Brendan Clarke was forced to retire his Shell Advance Honda after 16 laps after having sustained damage in a lap two fall.

DAIJIRO Katoh made it a^ double for Telefonica MoviStar, taking the 250CC race to open his championship iead tO 49 points.

The Honda star permitted: Tetsuya Harada to lead the first three laps before shooting; past to lead until: the race was. stopped for rain on lap lOi At the restart, Harada led again but Kato, 3s up from the first 'leg', soon grabbed back the point to lead home his countryman's Aprilia, with Fonsi Nieto third' from Emilio Alzamora.

iViNi by the standOrdS of 200;1i, : the 125cc race was an absolute : cracker, with 0Js covering the | top seven ridOrs after what can i only be dOscribedi as two> wheeled war. !

Manuel Poggiali won for Gilera, but Toni. Elias, Daniel Pedrosa, | Youichi: Ui, Gino Borsoi, Simone I Sanna.and Steve Jenkner joined: j in the titanic battle, the tiddlers j racing unabated through a light I shower on the final lap. j Pbints: Elias (Honda) 1178, Poggiali 1r70; i Ui (perbi) 132, LuciO Gecchinello ('Aprilia) | 116; Sanna and: Borsoi: (Aprilias) 105, j IVlasaOi Azuma: (Honda): 101;. !

Points; KatOh 247, Harada 1S8, Marco Melandri (Aprilia) 169, Roberto Rolfo (Aprilia) 136, Alzamora (H0nda):97, Jeremy McWilliams (Aprilia): 9 0.

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de Ferrari, de man: A last turn lunge from Gll de Ferran got him the win at Rockingham over Kenny Brack, while the Swede won in Germany.

The two weekends were tinged with sadness and homesickness, but CART should be commended for carrying on and bringing its racing to (Photo by Sutton-lmages) Europe under the circumstances.

by PHIL MORRIS cart’s first journey to Europe has ended after a tough two weeks, with Kenny Brack and Gil de Ferran emerging the hest from races at the Lausitzring in Germany and England’s Rockingham oval.

While the Brazilian and the Swede fought out a thrilling finish in the UK,the mood of the teams and the media was that they could not return home fast enough after the events in the USA over the last two weeks and a sickening accident in Germany which has cut short the career of Alex Zanardi.

Both races had more than their share of inclement weather, neither having an actual qualifying session and both having limited practice in the European autumn.

Hence the grids were formed on championship positions, Brack and de Ferran starting from the front row twice. In England, the two fought a tense battle, which looked settled when de Ferran beat Brack out from the final round of pit stops.

But, with two laps to go in the rain-interrupted race, the Swedish oval master slipped inside de Ferran in traffic, only to find the Penske ReynardMonda sweeping around him at the last corner.

“Last turn, last lap, it’s now or never,” gi’inned de Ferran, the 11th different winner this season,“so you’ve got to bury the throttle really deep and stay on the line.”

“I’m disappointed to finish second, obviously,” said a disappointed Brack,“but Gil drove a good race, and second is better than third. I thought we had him but, obviously, we didn’t. I have no complaints. It was a tough race, it 28 September 2001

Remembering the ones back home: With all of the CART community a\way from home in a time of national disaster, it didn’t stop them from remembering the lives lost in the September 11 tragedies.

(Photo by Sutton-lmages)

was an exciting race, and that’s the way I think oval racing should be.”

Third place went initially to Helio Castroneves, but the Brazilian lost the place after the race when Race Director Chris Kneifel deemed that the Penske driver had passed Cristiano da Matta in pit lane - a move supposedy impossible with speed limiters - and the positions were reversed. Team Penske has appealed the decision.

Michael Andretti took fifth from Paul Tracy and Jimmy Vasser, while Tony Kanaan took eighth after looking the man to beat, topping the times on practice and the warm-up, which sent hopes that the Brazilian may have been able to win the race for his team-mate, Zanardi. Alas, it was not to be.

A WEEK earlier in Germany, Brack and Max Papis took a 1-2 for Team Rahal in a race which finished under yellow flags.

While they rode a fuel conservation strategy to the win, they were in the process of being hunted down by the duo of Zanardi and Kanaan, who had the fastest cars on the track from the moment practice started. Both pitted for a late-race splash offuel, but Zanardi appeared to lose control on the pit exit road, bouncing across the grass and sliding into the path of Alex Tagliani.

The Player’s car hit Zanardi’s with frightening force, tearing its front off at the dash-hoop. While the field trailed around behind the Pace Car, marshals attended to the stricken Italian, who was airlifted

to a nearby hospital where, later, he underwent sui'gery to amputate both legs.

In a subdued finish. Brack and Papis won from Patrick Carpentier and Andretti, while Oriol Servia rode impressive mileage to take fifth from Tora Takagi, Kanaan, de Ferran and Dixon, whose flu forced him to miss practice altogether.

The crowds were large and enthusiastic and future events promise much for Champ Car racing in Europe.

But we all pray that, next time, the circumstances are better for all concerned.

Points: Brack 147, de Ferran 141, Andretti 126, Castroneves 123, da Matta 92, Dario Franchitti 89, Dixon 86, Carpentier 83, Kanaan 77,Tracy 76.

23

Hackett for Macau, Sato-style

AUSTRALIAN Formula 3 championship leader Peter Hackett will drive a third Carlin Motorsports car alongside British F3 Champion Takuma Sato, below right, and teammate Anthony Davidson at the blue-riband Macau Grand Prix in November.

The deal represents a huge opportunity for the 26-year-old

Sydney driver, below, who is currently looking for a Japanese or European drive for 2002.

“It’s excellent, it’s going to be a chance of a lifetime,” said an ecstatic Hackett. “You can’t do any better than this.”

Hackett is cautiously optimistic about his chances.

“It’s going to be a steep learning curve. Driving a different-spec

chassis won’t be a real problem (Hackett will drive the Dallara F301 chassis at Macau, as opposed to the older F398 that is used in Australia), the real difference will be the nature of the circuit, and the more powerful Mugen-Honda engine.

“But I’d like to see myselffinish in the top-five newcomers.”

Carlin Motorsport boss 'Trevor Carlin said that he was looking forward to having the Australian on board.

“We are very pleased that Peter will be joining Carlin Motorsport for the Macau Grand Prix. He has shown that he is a very capable driver in the Australian F3 Championship, we hope to put on a very competitive showing.”

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Photo by Sutton-lmages

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The key players at Carlin last ran an Australian driver in 1989, when David Brabham rewarded them with a win.

Hackett will fly to the UK to test at Croft before heading to Macau for the prestigious race, which draws the cream of the various F3 championships around the world. , Along with Brabham, previous winners include Ayrton Senna.

David Coulthard, and Michael Schumacher.

The announcement caps off an eventful couple of weeks for Australian Formula 3, which began on race day at Sandown when suggestions that an eighth race may be tacked on to the existing calendar began to circulate around the paddock.

Originally earmarked as an eight-round series, the 2001 championship was reduced to seven following the axeing of the Le Mans race at Adelaide, which was earmarked as the final F3 round.

The category has now been invited to run at Sandown at the V8 Supercar finale on December 2, however this would come just a week after the scheduled seventh round at Oran Park as part of the year’s final PROCAR meeting.

Although keen to participate, it is believed that the strain of having to compete in Sydney and

Melbourne on consecutive weekends could prove too much for several competitors, few of whom run full-time racing outfits.

Formula 3 is required to ^arantee a minimum grid at all of its races, and it is Motorsport News’s understanding that the Formula 3 Association is not certain that the obligation can be met if the category goes ahead with the Sandown meeting.

The committee was scheduled to discuss the topic at a board meeting in Melbourne the day after Motorsport News went to press.

Also on the agenda for the meeting will be a potentially landmark measure of the CAMS regulations against those of the FLA, to which F3 is bound.

Following the second race at Sandown two weeks ago, drivers Mike Beeley and Da3mom Templeman were summoned by the stewards after holes were detected in their car’s airboxes.

Seeley’s was believed to have been brought about by the extremely bumpy nature of the Sandown circuit, which caused the airbox to flex so much that it cracked, white Templeman’s box was reportedly damaged by debris, most likely a stone.

Both drivers were excused on the grounds that the damage was beyond their control, and that they obtained no performance advantage. Consequently, the results were allowed to stand.

The FIA regulations, however, do not allow for any flexibility in the interpretation of the rules.

The F3 committee is unhappy with the stewards decision, citing the disqualification of two cars for similar infringements last year as an example of inconsistency on behalf of CAMS officials.

“It sets a precedent,” said F3 President Chas Jacobsen.

“We should have a clear rule, that if you fail a vacuum test then that’s it.”

“We will be seeking to address the matter with CAMS.” Both the extra race and the airbox issues stand to have a dramatic impact upon the championship.

Only Templeman has a mathematical chance of overhauling Hackett, and the ultimate disqualification of Templeman from Race 2 at Sandown, which he won, will hand the title to the Sydneysider.

- MARK GLENDENNING moiorsporl news

NEWS

>

Wacky racers

Pfroto Oy StJtton-lfr»g«a

MARK Webber was one of many drivers to fall victim to a bizarre set of circumstances in the final round of the F3000 championship at Monza two weeks ago.

At the conclusion of a manic 20 minute qualifying session held immediately before the race after thunderstorms had forced the cancellation of qualifying a day earlier, Webber's Supernova lay in fourth on the grid. l Webber’s teammate, Mario Haberfeld, stalled on the grid and was forced to fall to the back as the cars formed up for the restart.

When the lights went out for the second time, an incredible 12 cars stalled, including Webber. Starting from the rear of the grid, the

Australian’s race was over before the end of lap one when Noberto Fontana punted him into the wall.

“The stalling at the start caught me unawares,” Webber explained. “ We saw 12 people stalling, and I was one of them. I don’t know if it was because of eveiything getting too hot from the qualifying session, I think that the clutch got very hot, but it was a real shame.

“I still thought that we could get a reasonable result from the back and I got through the first chicane, but then I was hit in the back wheel, which pitched me straight into the fence.”

Italian Giorgio Pantano went on to take his first win in his Team Astromega Lola ahead of Justin Wilson and Ricardo Sperafico.

A pole, a punt, and a podium

JAMES Courtney had a busy weekend in British F3 at Brands Hatch two weeks ago, where he claimed pole position, was punted into the wall in Race 1 and then bounced back to finish

second in Race 2. ^ Courtney took his Jaguar Racing machine to the top of the tables in the second qualifying session after Anthony Davidson had trumped the first session.

As Davidson got the jump at the start of Race 1 and led away from Carlin teammate Takuma Sato, a slow -starting Derek Hayes squeezed Courtney into the pitwall.

Davidson went on to win from Sato with Hayes finishing a lonely third, while Courtney was able to drag his wounded Jaguar (which

had sustained a damaged front wing) across the line in 10th place to claim the final point on offer.

The Australian led at the start of Race 2, but he was caught out on the opening lap by a daring move from Sato. The Japanese Champion-elect motored on for an untroubled win, with Courtney following him home for second some 6.2s back. Davidson completed the podium.

"Courtney is a very good racer," Sato smiled later.

"Some guys are mad, but I can't complain because sometimes I get excited! He never backed off, but he always left me room, and that's why I really enjoyed it. We both had completely sliding cars at the hairpin - really enjoyable racing. " It was really exciting, honest."

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OPINION WHEN I was growing up, my father was a Ford man. The first car I ever bought was a 1984 Commodore,so we have been fighting ever since.

But I am trying to convert him! Peopie in motor racing usually go one way or the other and he loves his Longreach Ute. I am trying to convert him over to a nice HSV Maloo but he is still holding me out...

The approach for a race like Bathurst is similar to a big test match at Sydney, or the MCG, or Lords. I guess racing drivers try to do what we do; approach each match in exactly the same way. At the high level we play, motivation is never a problem the desire to go out and do your best is always there.

Whenever I go out onto the cricket field, I trust my ability, my instincts and my experience and just back myself. That's what you have to battle with in any situation.

Then, when you walk off the field at the end of the day, knowing that you have given it everything that you could have without holding back, you can live with that. You may have won or lost, but you have given it the best you have.

"if we go out play as well as we can, no team Is going to get close to usrr

28 September 2001

n cricket and in motor racing, preparation is just as important.

We do a lot of watching of videos before a match, watching the opposition batsmen and bowlers, even if we have played against them quite a bit in the past. You can use that to prepare game plans for each batsmen and, once that plan is worked out, we stick to it.

The mental side is very important. The Australian team is a pretty awesome team at the moment and the opposition first have to get over that aspect before they play us. We go out knowing that, in some cases, they may not be thinking that they can compete with us. When that happens, you have a big edge just going in.

During the recent Ashes Tour in England, we were forcing England to play us at our game.

If we go out there and play as well as we can, no team is going to get close to us. We don't worry about the opposition too much; if we do what we know we can do, and do it well, we know we are going to win.

If the other teams plays well, we still stick at it and have faith in our plans.

Both sports also need strong leadership. If you work out a way.

Motor Mouth wim Blmii MeGratli as a team, to win, and stick to it, you will win. There's two drivers plus a pit crew at Bathurst, whereas we have 11 players. But what is similar is that there is one player working at a time; if I have the ball, as soon as I let it go, it's the batsman's game, then the fielder's game.

Motor racing is the same; the drivers take turns and the crew has to perform as well.

It's a team sport of individuals.

Steve Waugh has been a great leader, as has John Bales with the Wallabies. Australia has had a 'golden era' in sport and whoever comes along next will have big shoes to fill. I am sure that both of them will have a leading role in Australia in the future.

W

e know at the end of the day we are not invincible.

Looking at our recent losses in India and England, it took special individual performances that beat us.

In India, first it was Harbhajan Singh and WS Laxman; in England, it was Mark Butcher in the fourth test. That's how is goes sometimes.

Like most of us, I think I will be watching Bathurst on TV. My wife is due to have our second child very soon, and after three weeks' break from cricket, NSW is about to get back into it, then Australia. It's a pretty busy time coming up.

But I will be trying hard to get there...

Glenn McGrath has played 75 test matches for Australia, taking 358 wickets at an average of 21.28. He has also played in 140 One-Day Internationals, with 212 scalps at 23.59.

During the recent Ashes Tour, McGrath took a series-high 32 wickets and was named Player of the Series.

And he drives a Holden ...

2J

The Box Seat With loe Saward

EIIMG in Monza for the Italian Grand Prix is usually one of the great pleasures one enjoys in a season of Fomndla 1.

"As far as I am concerned," said a colleague as we walked in one morning, listening to a Bell Huey coming in scaring Vietnamese visitors, "if there was only one round of the World Championship, I would not mind if it was at Monza."

But this year Monza was not much fun. The scale of the attacks in New York and Washington were overwhelming and everything seemed to be

fairly insignificant in comparison.

The decision to run the race was an important one. Terrorism must not be allowed to dictate what happens in the world. After a few days of shock and mourning, the world must go on as normal.

Deciding on whether or not to hold the Italian Grand Prix was a tough call for Max Mosley and Bernie Ecclestone on the day after the outrage but, by the weekend, it looked to be the correct choice.

This does not mean that people were not on edge at Monza.

Everyone was feeling unsettled.

It is only natural that we should feel that way. You can say that the foundations of society had been shaken but we won't really know if that is true for a little longer and everyone at Monza was feeling a little more insecure than is normally the case. t was this insecurity which was probably behind the attempt by some drivers to have no overtaking in the first two chicanes at Monza. That decision was not really thought out and was badly-timed.

While, in essence, it was an

Drivers are not saints. Nor are they ambassadors. They are racing drivers and the reason that they are in Formuia 1 is that they are tough and seifish"

-sil' '■%

● .X-

molorspon news

FORMULA ONE attempt to protect Formula 1 from the bad publicity that might occur if there was another bad accident, it was also a reaction to the insecurity that everyone was feeling.

Monza would have been an emotive race even without what happened in New York and Washington DC because a year ago a marshal was killed as a result of a first lap accident at the second chicane. The drivers did not want the same thing to happen again.

There was also an element of worry caused by Alex Zanardi's horrible accident at the Lausitzring. This sort of thing always upsets drivers because it shows them that there are times when their fate is in the lap of the gods. They ●e not

completely masters of their own destiny. It showed them, if you like, that we are all mortal.

The idea of having a no overtaking rule in the first two chicanes created too much potential for misinterpretation, particularly as Jacques Villeneuve said he was not interested, Villeneuve has always been brave in a car but he has also always been brave when it comes to the other drivers. He goes his own way and does what he thinks is right.

In many ways he is admirable.

Sometimes he is not.

But let us not mistake these men for saintly figures. A fortnight before Monza, Eddie Irvine was involved in an accident at Spa which involved

Luciano Burti. A year earlier, Michael Schumacher drove straight at Mika Hakkinen at Spa at around 320kmh in a manoeuvre which undercut any credibility he might have had as a spokesman for driver safety.

That may seem to be rather a harsh way of looking at it - but it was a very harsh manoeuvre.

D

rivers are not saints. Nor are they ambassadors. They are racing drivers and the reason that they are in Formula 1 is that they are tough and selfish.

Those who are not like that do not make it to the top. There rea IS no point in them trying to dress up to be something else.

They must learn to trust the decision-makers of the sport who usually have a rather better view of what is right and what is wrong. The FIA, to its credit, has developed a quite extraordinary program of research into safety in the course of the last few years.

Burti's accident at Spa showed just how successful that program has been. Burti's car never hit the barrier. The impact was fully absorbed by the tyres. It is remarkable, but true. The crash defences worked perfectly and Burti was not badly hurt.

If the drivers had felt that Monza was not safe, they should have made that point on

Friday when they first started running. They did not do that and so later protestations about supposed dangers were not very valid. Many of them understood that a no-overtaking ban in the first two chicanes would be very difficult to achieve and opened up the possibility that they might just end up causing another accident.

T

here was no reason why those who felt badly on Sunday had to race. Pulling out would have taken a lot of courage because of the implications but no-one condemns Niki Lauda for pulling of the Japanese GP in 1976, or Emerson Fittipaldi (and others) for refusing to race in the 1975 Spanish GP - which did end in tragedy.

The response of some of the team owners was as reptilian as one would expect from them.

The way to motivate drivers is not to threaten them as some team bosses did. The wiser ones offered their drivers the chance to puli out if they were really not happy.

No-one did pull out. Nor should they have done.

We were there to show the world something and it is better to do with a racing car than with a Bell Huey. Although it's such a great sound ...

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ALEX ZANARDI

I

T'S hard to believe that we will not see Alex Zanardi in a race car again.

The always-smiling Italian has had his share of success and knocks during the last 13 years but, just as it looked like he was about to reassert himself as a factor in Champ Car racing, the 34year Italian has had his career cut tragically short in a huge accident at the Lausitzring in Germany.

In just four seasons in the USA's premier open-wheel series, Zanardi set new standards for the next generation of drivers, and he did so in a manner that endeared him to his teams, his fans and the media.

Even at the hyper-sonic speeds that a Champ Car attains on superspeedways, you always knew that Alex was wearing that impish, almost cocky grin as he went about what he did better than almost anyone who ever sat in a 800 horsepower-plus racecar.

Even more tragically, Zanardi's accident came in a race that he looked likely to win. For the first time since rejoining his former Target Team Ganassi engineer Morris Nunn for the 2001 season, Zanardi was the man to beat in Germany, dominating the practice session and, despite starting 22nd when the grid was formed on n championship positions, the body language of his Reynard-Honda suggested he was going to win the race.

It wasn't a case of using the rubber while it lasted and then hanging on, as we saw in the early races this season when he was struggling with the car. This was the 'don't-messwith-me-today' Zanardi of 1996-9798; taking spots decisively one at a time and making inexorable progress Lt through the pack.

If Mo Nunn Racing team-mate Tony f Kanaan even reported after the race n that, when Alex zoomed past him late in the race to take the lead, the Italian looked him in the eye and gave him a friendly wave - at about 340kmh.

Zanardi hit Champ Car racing like a cyclone. In 1996, while teahnnhate Jimmy Vasser was winning the crown, Alex was making sure ft '' that everyone knew what to ^ ^ expect the following year. He won j three races and started from pole'a J season-high six times that season, C finishing third in the title, walking n away with the rookie title and j pocketing US$1.4 in prizemoney - * more than title runner-up Michael n Andretti. All this, barely a year after .y.team owner Chip Ganassi had to, so the tale is told, bang the table during a meeting with main sponsor Target over the idea of signing a driver practically unknown in the USA,

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28Segtenilnr200l

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The Donut n i*.

King

M/e won’t be seeing any more donuts from Alex Zanardi after his horrifying Lausitzring accident cut short his brilliant career By PHIL MORRIS in the USA and ADAM COOPER in Europe

How they learned ...

In 1997, Alex hit his stride. With five wins and four poles (both year-highs), he beat Gil de Ferran to the title by 33 points, spreading a record six straight poles and 11 front-row starting position over the 1996 and '97 seasons.

But it was how he did it that dazzled; at Cleveland, he started his post-race donut celebration after overcoming two penalties (which stranded him temporarily in 22nd)to win from behind; he scored his first oval win at Michigan, again overcoming a pit lane penalty; and then sealed the title with a race to spare.

The following year, it was more of the same. He had to wait until the third race of the season at Long Beach to take his first win, diving past Bryan Herta after earlier being lapped by the leaders.

After shading winners Vasser and Greg Moore for seconds at Nazareth and Rio, he took his 10th career win at Gateway and then went on a four-race tear, winning at Detroit, Portland, Cleveland and Toronto.

He sealed his title defence four races early With a cautious fourth at Vancouver and then followed Herta home at Laguna Seca, finishing the season with second at Houston and his final career win at Surfers, sending yet anotner set of Firestones to their smoky end with more donuts.

But It was his final victory of 1996 that was his 'signature' win.

Herta was the n'.an to beat at Laguna Seca and led for 40 laps while Zanardi darted around in his mirrors. On the final run through the infamous Corkscrew,.Alex continued on page 32 31

Retrospective continued from page 31 threw the car through a tiny hole, exited the corner way too fast, bumped over the kerb onto the dirt, sorted out the moment and led a stunned Flerta to the flag.

And it was not by accident. In testing earlier in the year, Zanardi had done the same thing by mistake and noticed, when he regained control, that the car was still fairly controllable, even at more than 200kmh. So, come raceday, he simply did it again, this time deliberately.

Two years later, Flerta and Zanardi lined up exactly the same way on the final lap, but this time Bryan held on to win.

When asked later if he ever woke up in the middle of the night wondering it Zanardi would divebomb him, Flerta answered, "No. Well, not any more."

But it was not always so.

Even after he displayed prodigious his talent in a career that started 21 years ago in gokarts, the under-funded young Zanardi struggled to find the rides that matched his ability. Fie finished second in the Italian Formula 3 championship in 1990 after two seasons of struggle, despite taking pole in the

European round at Monaco.

Things looked better a year later, taking second in the European Formula 3000 Championship, winning the first round of the series at Valielunga and also taking the 'home' win at Mugello. There was some major opposition that season, too; Christian Fittipaldi won the championship, Damon Flill finished seventh and Fleinz-Flarald Frentzen, Karl Wendlinger, Allan McNish, Alain Menu and Le Mans winner Eric Fielary also featured.

By the end of the season, he was in Formula 1. When Bertrand Gachot was jailed in the UK, the fledgling Jordan team lacked a driver and that led to Michael Schumacher's GP debut at Spa. But when the German was snatched away by Benetton, Roberto Moreno stepped into the breach, only for the team to make another switch and install Zanardi in the car for the final three races in Barcelona, Suzuka and Adelaide.

At Minardi the following year, he failed to qualify in two of his three outings, and had a first lap clutch failure when he did make the field at Flockenheim.

Fie was given a proper chance

by Lotus in 1993 when he replaced Mika Hakkinen as Johnny Flerbert's team-mate. By then the

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moiorspon news

ALEX ZANARDl team was on the slide, but Zanardi picked up a useful sixth place second time out in Brazil - but Herbert was ahead of him in fourth. Indeed, over the first 11 races of the season Johnny qualified ahead nine times, and clearly had the edge in the races.

Alex's season came to a premature end at Spa when he had a huge crash at the top of Eau Rouge. His bell was well and truly rung, and he was replaced

by Pedro Lamy. When the Portuguese driver was himself hurt early in 1994 Alex stepped back into the team, but once again he achieved very little and scored no points as Lotus spiralled into oblivion.

The consensus was that Zanardi had had enough chances.

No-one was interested in him for 1995, and he was reduced to driving a Lotus Esprit in GT races.

Alex Zanardi will never drive a racecar again. It is not even known, at this stage, whether he will ever come to a race again.

That is our loss.

I, n

But the memories he had given us will last for as long as men race. Zanardi was a great driver in the sport and, to boot, a fine and cheerful man.

In a sport which, often, takes the best from drivers and leaves we who watch with the little that remains, that is a considerable achievement.

Messages of support for Zanardi's recovery may be sent via e-mail to; zanardi@cart.com or mail them to; Alex Zanardi, Mo Nunn Racing, 2920 Fortune Circle West, Suite E, Indianapolis IN 46241 USA. His wife Daniela has asked for no flowers or presents but, instead, for donations to be made to the childrens' charity; Association Mondial pour I'Aid des Enfant, Star Team For Children 20 Avenue de Fontvieille, MC 98000 Monaco.

On Target: Zanardi was a favourite at many tracks, including Surfers.

(Rlwlii hyJohn Morris/Mpix)

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Zanardi in FI

The mystery explained Why did Alex Zanardi, CART star, become Alex Zanardi, FI ais&^ran?

LEX Zanardi's FI stop'J start career was spread

ir »over eight years, but for some reason he never really reached the heights that many expected him to. Many who worked with him liked him as a person and admired his ability to sort a car. But his failure at Williams in 1999 remains one of the great mysteries of recent times.

How could a guy who took the CART world by storm fail so miserably?

Despite a tough start in GP racing, his blazing speed in Champ Cars meant that by 1999 he was a hot property once again, and he replaced Jacques Villeneuve at Williams, alongside Ralf Schumacher.

Many expected it to be a closely fought contest, but from the start the Italian seemed to struggle, and he was completely outpaced by the young German. Fourth in qualifying at Monza was the only bright spot, and by the end of the year he'd scored not a single point.

3a

Meanwhile, Half scored 35.

Last year Williams Technical Director Patrick Head explained what he thought had gone wrong: "When Jacques came into FI I think he thought 'Oh, this is going to be tough.' To his credit, he went away and worked his arse off to get himself fitter and tougher and harder and everything else. To be honest, that is basically the thing that Alex didn't do. , "He thought, 'Shit, this is a bit different than what I was expecting.' He still went into the motorhome and had the espresso coffee and was full of jokes and laughs. A lovely character, and I'm sure that the talent was perfectly high enough, but what it required was total abstinence, total dedication, six hours a day in the gym, chop all the hair off, and I don't think in truth that he was quite prepared to do it.

"It was once he realised he was into a higher level arena, he wasn't prepared to make the transition, or didn't recognise

ttlTIIIV

that the transition was necessary.

"There was no lack of determination and courage on the track. He qualified fourth at Monza, and had he not gone straight over the top of the chicane on the first lap, when he ripped the underside out of the car and damaged the

diffuser, he would probably have finished second, ahead of Half."

Zanardi had a long-term contract with Williams, but both sides realised that there was no point in continuing into 2000.

"We obviously had a very disappointing year with Alex.

But I'd have to say until just before Christmas 1999, Frank and I were 100 percent of the view that we'd be carrying on into 2000 with Alex. But we had a meeting with him, and we didn't really get the impression that his mindset was the way we thought it needed to be to change the circumstances.

"Frank and I discussed it over Christmas, and said, 'well, if we can, we ought to see whether we can start afresh'. Frank rang Alex and said we would prefer to make a change, and we discussed the termination. Alex responded immediately. He didn't say no, 'I want to carry on', he immediately said 'yes'."

That was the end of Zanardi's FI dream.

- ADAM COOPER moiotssoii news

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The favourites, the Each year, Bathurst brings fame and, maybe, fortune to the winners, but an outright favourite this time is harder to pick than a broken nose. CHRIS LAMBDEN previews the race

O

N form, there are four red hot favourites for victory at Bathurst - and you don’t have to be a genius to pick them.

But after two near-misses in the past two years, the Shell team is absolutely determined to get it right, do it for Ford, and reduce Holden Racing Team’s championship lead. But they’ll all have to contend with an in-form Enforcer.

It could be quite a contest...

The become V8 Supercar a critical1000 race has for the drivers vying for the 200^,;|hell Series. With so'many poirifs at stake and a group of four drivers still realistically in the hunt although, mathematically, there are probably four more - failure could be costly.

And given that - probably not by coincidence - the four form horses for the race are also the same four at the head of the championship, the “cruise and collect” pointsscoring option is at best a big risk.

Under these circumstances, the other key person in each team is going to be the guy calling the tactics. Recent years have seen the race punctuated by a series of unscheduled Safety Cars as the weather and driver error have come to bear. Making the calls, quickly and correctly, can - and will - make all the difference to winning and losing the traditional Big Race.

There are a couple of significant differences in 2001, though.

The Top 10 Saturday Shoot-out is gone - it’s now a Top 15. In some ways it’s a bit of a shame - the Top 10 was a Bathurst first and a tradition - but five more cars get the opportunity to make up for falling a fraction short in qualifying.

The field is down to 41. Some of this is by design. The provision of a Saturday race for Konica Series teams pro'vides an alternative to those without the budget for lOOOkms and takes a handful of cars away from - to be realistic the rear of the main race field.

The risks inherent in lapping 38

slower cars is therefore reduced and this may - may - reduce the number of early to mid-race incidents which punctuated the past two 1000s.

For the first time, the race has no main sponsor. The insm'ance industry melee early in the year took out former sponsor FAI and the ‘ask’ for a replacement has clearly been too much for a country facing some economic uncertainty never mind the global madness of recent weeks.

Materially, it won’t affect the race - promoter IMG is still bound to pay the teams as contracted but it may lead to negative perceptions in the commercial world ...

That aside, Bathurst is Bathurst.

The last couple of races at the Mountain have been crackers and there’s plenty to play for on the first Sunday in October.

The Favourites .e four contenders for the 'El _ championship also go into this

race as the cun'ent form horses with barely a weak link to be identified among them.

HRT has - in championship terms - chosen to split its risk, putting Skaife and Bright in separate cars.

In doing so, the team has conferred significant confidence in its two other drivers, Tony Longhurst (-with Skaife) and Tomas Mezera (with Bright).

It’s not a huge risk. Both are former Bathurst winners, both have raced throughout the year albeit in comparatively uncompetitive cars - and both are enjoying the requirement of simply driving one of the best cars in the pit lane after the stress and dramas of team ownership. Their effort at the Q500 was impressive, first up.

There is little new to be said about HRT, its infrastructure, its experience and its professionalism.

On paper, one of the red cars is virtually bound to be there at the business end of the day.

But there is one stand-out statistic which offers hope to the

opposition - HRT has won Bathurst only twice, the last victory back in 1996 (Craig Lowndes/Greg Murphy).

Championships, it seems, are bread and butter - Bathurst is something else.

Skaife’s qualifying and single lap shootout laps at Bathurst have become legendary and thus it will be a surprise if Car 1 isn’t a front row starter. But from there, its’ a long, long day...

Russell Ingall - with Bathurst veteran Larry Perkins - has found car speed just when it matters.

Perkins has won a number of these races on sheer mechanical strength and reliability - perhaps the first to consistently produce a car regularly capable of running hard all day.

But over recent years, aided by evolution and rev limits, the opposition has caught up. Everyone is pretty strong now and out-andout pace is required to win.

That’s been there sometimes with the Castrol team, but occasionally not quite. That the latest evolution Holden ft'om the House of LP is indeed on the pace can be judged simply by the smile on the Enforcer’s face.

The presence of the experienced

motorsport news

Short odds: Holden Racing Team is putting the championship ahead of the race, with Longhurst joining Skaife and Mezera with Bright.

Much is-expected of the new Gibson Falcon, here shaking down at Calder, left.

But Russell Ingall, left below, outsped everyone at Winton and looks strong.

Radisich and Johnson, right, head to the Mountain fresh from a warmup win in the Queensland 500.

(Photos by API -Images. Peter Bury and Dirk Ktynsmith)

Perkins in the car continues a successful partnership. Perkins still lives for Bathurst. It’s his ultimate challenge, and while his individual Shell Series results are - and often have been - patchy, noone doubts LP’s pace at Mount Panorama: LP can put in the times when he wants to,” Ingall commented recently. At Bathui’st, he wants to.

If it’s possible for any one team to be keener and more focussed on winning this race than anyone else, then it would be the Shell team.

In both the past two Bathurst races, the team has had a sniff of victory and in both cases it’s come to naught. These guys are on the case this year. continued on page 40 28 Sepiember 2001

Balliursl prewieiH continued from page 39 Having split Radisich and Johnson (Jnr and Senior)in the past, this time there’s no doubting the team’s understanding of the need to have two full-time guns in the lead car.

Radisich and Johnson - the latter actually the team’s championship challenger - are both looking sharp, have both won races, and pilot a car which has - with few exceptions- been on or very near the pace all year.

Team manager Dean Orr is back after a brief departure earlier in the year and is taking full and final responsibility for the tactical calls during the race: “It’s an area where we’ve been a

((little untidy in the past,” he told us.

And it probably played its part in not winning those two recent Bathurst races.

“We’ve worked hard on our strategy for this year - we have to make the right calls...”

The Near Favourites There a further seven win cars the whichare could quite easily V8 Supercar 1000. It would - in most cases - take some small misfortune among the favourites, but among these middle-odds

entiles are some who could simply get it right in a big way on the day and blow everyone away on merit!

Top ofthe list - and perhaps unlucky not to join the outright favourites - is the Murphy/Todd Kelly Ejnart Racing Commodore.

A‘quasi-HRT’car and team, a former double-winner and a talented young and full-time racing co-driver are three important ingredients which mark car 15 as the most-likely to get in among the leaders late in the day. It could so easily be Murfs third win.

Like many of the almostfavourites, Murf and The Toddler have less championship pressure on them and can simply go to Bathm-st to win.

For both, the year has been a mix of big ups and big downs-if this turns out to be an ‘up’the duo will be right there.

What to make of the Gibson Motorsport Lowndes/Crompton Falcon entiy? Little things have recently derailed what looked hke such a promising start to the year but that start was better than most had expected or hoped for.

Winton, as a lead-in race, should also be discounted. Lowndes was on a top three qualifying lap when he uncharacteristically went olf and got stuck on the grass. From there, and grid 27, the weekend was most

You can’t win them all!

1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st

Queensland 2001 - SCS Sandown 2000 - SCS Bathurst 1999 - SCS Mallala 2001 - Konica Queensland 2000 - SCS Surfers 1999 - Special Ev Oran Pk 2001 - SCS Mallala 2000 - Konica Oran Pk 1999 - SCS Calder 2001 - SCS Calder 2000 - SCS Winton 1999 - SCS Lakeside 2001 ■ Konica Lakeside 2000 - Konica Symmons PI 1999 - SCS Barbagallo 2001 - SCS Oran Pk 2000 - SCS Calder 1999 - SCS Canberra 2001 - SCS Winton 2000 - SCS Queensland 1999 - SCS Phillip Is 2001 - Konica Queensland 2000 - SCS Sandown 1999 - SCS Hidden Valley 2001 - SCS Oran Pk 2000 - Konica

1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 2nd 2nd

Hidden Valley 1999 - SCS Winton 2001 - Konica Canberra 2000 - SCS Phillip Is 1999 - SCS Eastern Ck 2001 - SCS Hidden Valley 2000 - SCS Barbagallo 1999 - SCS Adelaide 2001 - SCS Phillip Is 2000 - Konica Adelaide 1999 - SCS Phillip Is 2001 - SCS Eastern Ck 2000 - SCS Eastern Ck 1999 - SCS Oran Pk 2001 - Konica Adelaide 2000 - SCS Albert Pk 1999 - Special Ev Albert Pk 2001 -Special Ev Eastern Ck 2000 - Konica Wakefield 2001 - Konica Barbagallo 2000 - SCS Bathurst 2000 - SCS Albert Pk 2000 -Special Ev Surfers 2000 - Special Ev Phillip Is 2000 - SCS Winton 2001 - SCS Queensland 1999 - SCS

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Hkely to be a dud.

So much will depend on the team’s all-new Falcon, which hit the track for the first time on Wednesday, September 19. With a debut that late, the team needed to be convinced of the car’s basic worth - with the back-up option of sta3dng with the proven, if tired, existing car.

Early reports(see news pages) suggested that the team was wellpleased with the evolutionaiy car and it will race at the Mountain.

Co-driver Neil Crompton has had few race miles but a fair bit of testing under his belt this year, so should be okay.

It’s the unknown element- a new car so different- which make this a true Dark Horse pick. But then again, so was the Gibson Motorsport Mm'phy/Richards Commodore in 1999 ... ●To find last year’s winners this far down the pecking order is a little strange, but it has been a fmstrating year for Garry Rogers’ equipe - primarily because two brand new VX Commodores took some time to match the team’s old VTs for pace. It was a case of re inventing the wheel. The team reverted to the ‘tried-and-proven’ and life got better.

Garth Tander’s provisional pole at Winton illustrated that the speed is back and that the team on this occasion was on the right tyres at the right time.

Statistically, they’re up against it.

The last repeat win was way back in the pre-V8 days, when Jim Richards and Mark Skaife managed consecutive wins in the technically

dominant 4WD Nissan GTR in 1991/92.

Both Stone Brothers Falcons clearly have the pace - witness Marcos Ambrose’s speed at a variety of circuits, including the most recent Winton round, where the Pirtek Falcon was a good thi-ee to four-tenths quicker than anything in mid-race trim.

But sheer pace isn’t everything.

The team has been prepared to make the occasional eyebrow raising strategy call in the past.

Sometimes it hasn’t worked - but last year it nearly provided a miraculous win - from nowhere for Longhurst’s Caltex Falcon.

Brilliant one day, average on others.

Co-drivers too are SBR’s unknown this time around. While Matthew White raced Konica in 2000 and did a handful of SCS rounds this year and acquitted himself well at the Q500 alongside Besnard, he’s still relatively inexperienced when stacked against most of the other co-drivers.

In the other car, the extraordinary Crick depai'tm’e saga sees a very new face in the shape of Wayne Wakefield partnering Ambrose. If the mailbag at MN is any guide, Wakefield has a great deal of support in Queensland and has waited for an opportunity. This is it - but with it comes a degi-ee of pressure he’s unlikely to have dealt with before. motorsport news

SHEll CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

j.

Dark times: Bargwanna and Tander have had an awful year and it has been a decade since back-toback winners, when Richards and Skaife did it for Nissan. Can 2000 poleman Gardner, left, and 1999 poleman Larkham win?

(Photos by Dirk Kiynsmith and Marshall Cass)

If Wa}me can keep the Pirtek car somewhere near the frame and let Ambrose do the heroics, who knows?

Glenn Seton has lived with the annual “Is this his year?” question for a long time now, but is possibly copping it less this year than ever before. Why? Well, his season has been,in footy parlance, a shocker.

The FTR team has struggled for outright pace more often than not and then, when Glenn has got near the sharp end something(Winton - someone else’s crash; Eastern Creek wrong pit call) has turned it all som'.

Steven Richards, with two Bathurst V8 wins in his CV, has toiled as well. These guys need a break. It may well come in the shape of FTR’s all-new Falcon the first outsourced (Beehag) shell utilised by the team. FTR has been chasing front-end grip with its existing cars all year and, according to Seton,it’s a case of“problem solved.”

MN’s final ‘possible’is a bit of a punt. John Bowe has had the CAT Falcon in the top five a few times lately and thus must be

considered. He reckons to be happy with Simon Wills’co driving effort to date and could be some sort of chance.

The CAT team’s limitation, as with any modestly-funded team, is its ability to cope and react if things go wrong. That’s one of HRT’s strengths.

Rostrum Chances Paul in 2001.

Morris That is ainrace itself winner is a tremendous achievement for the fonner Super Touring Champ who has adapted to the V8 category quicker than his former

continued on page 42

A*,'.

28 September 2001

Questions: How well will Ambrose and new lad Wakefield team up? And will Seton finally win one at Mount Panorama?

Or can Murphy, bottom, make it three?

(Photos by Dirk Kiynsmith and Marshall Cass)

Balliurst preutew continued from page 41

Thursday 4 October Start Time Event Formula 9.15am GTP 10.20pm 11.05am 1.25pm 3.10pm 3.45pm

V8 Brutes KonicaVS Supercars V8 Supercars V8 Brutes GTP

Session Practice [40 min] Practice [40 min] Practice [45 min] Practice [90 min] Qualifying [20 min] Practice [50 min]

Friday 5 October Start Time Event Formula 8.45am 9.30am

Konica V8 Supercars GTP

10.15am V8 Supercars 11.30m V8 Brutes 1.35pm 1.10pm 2.05pm 3.30pm 4.25pm

Session Practice [30 min] Qualifying [30 min] Practice [60 min] Race 1 [6 laps] TBA

Air Display Qualifying [Top 50%) V8 Supercars Qualifying [Bottom 50%] V8 Supercars Qualifying [40 min] Konica V8 Supercars Race 2[6 laps] V8 Brutes

Saturday 6 October Start Time Event Formula 7.45am GT Production 8.10am VB Challenge 8.40am Konica V8 Supercars 10.15am V8 Supercars 10.45pm V8 Supercars 1.35pm GTP 4.20pm V8 Supercars

Session Warm Up [20 min] Pit Straight Race [80 min] Warm up [Top 15] Top 15 Shoot Out Race [2 hours] Practice [60 min]

Sunday 7 October Session

Start Time Event Formula 7.15am 7.50am 8.20am

V8 Supercars V8 Brutes Pre-Race Activities

Warm Up [20 min] Race 3[6 laps]

Includes Stunt Shows, Hyundai Precision Driving Team, V8 VB Challenge, Parade of Lap Drivers, National Anthem, Airshow Race [161 laps] 10.00am V8 Supercars 1000 4.40pm

Podium Presentation

rival Brad Jones. The Big Kev squad is modest in size, making the logistics at Bathurst a bit more difficult.

Pom Matt Neal will share the T’m Excited!’ Commodore with Morris. He is well credentialled, but not in a V8.

Imports have rarely succeeded in the modern Bathurst era.

The second Shell car is half a chance.

The team was thrilled with Cameron McLean’s effort last year and snapped him up (at Paul Stokell’s expense) when circumstances made him available at the 11th hour. Former Foi-mula Ford champ Greg Ritter too has performed stoically.

The two make the Shell team one ofjust two two-car equipes (with HRT)with a second car likely to be a top 10 runner.

Steve Ellery’s Supercheap squad is a well-oiled single-car team and Ellery has

IVIN’S PICKS Favourites ± Skaife/Longhurst 2 Bright/lVIezera ±± Ingall/Perkins 17 Johnson/Radisflch Near Favourites 15 Murphy/Kelly 00 Lowndes/CromptoiTB 34 Tander/Bargwanna 4 Ambrose/Wakefield 9 Besnard/White 5 Seton/Richards 600 Bowe/WiDSs Rostrum Chances 18 McLean/Ritter 29 Morris/Neal 31 Ellery/Brabham

pushed into the top five at times this year.

In Geoff Brabham, he has a secure co driver. Like the CAT and Big Kev teams, the team will be most vulnerable when reacting to the unexpected.

The Rest

s

uch is the standard in the front half of the V8 field nowadays that there are some genuine surprise omissions in terms of individuals who,in other teams or on other days, would be right in the thick of it all.

None more so than legendai-y, multiple winner Jim Richards. JR finds himself at FTR with the team going through its performance dip and paired with a relatively inexperienced co-driver in Dean Canto. Who will forget Richo’s last Bathurst with Gibson Motorsport, when he started the race and handed the car to Mark Skaife in the lead.

This year will be a bit more of a struggle...

Mark Larkham. Having put Larko outside of the potential rostrum chances, he’ll probably go and whack it on pole again! Frankly, it would be fantastic for one of the great fighters if he did.

It’s been a tough year, with the loss of a sponsor, and it’s that alone - the need to run a tight ship - that may count against the team on race day. The mercurial Wayne Gardner will press on given the chance, but a ftiU-race charge from a team coping with the commercial pressm’es facing Lai-ko is a big ask.

Brad Jones, Cameron McConville, John Faulkner, Paul Weel, any one of the remaining second cars in the Pro teams are all capable of squeezing into the Top 10 depending on the fortunes of those further up the ladder.

Foimer FI world champion Alan Jones is back for another outing with Anthony Tratt and Toll Racing. AJ starred briefly in qualifying last year, but at best it’s a fun weekend out for AJ. And capping it aU off is a team with no form at all- well, in V8s at least. Yes, the Bud Racing(nee Prancing Horse)Falcon.

To date unraced and hardly tested. Mark Noske and Craig Baird are scheduled to drive.

The vitals: Pit strategy could decide the big race, w/hile the relationship between co-drivers, like David Besnard and Matthew White, below, is also important.

(Photos by Dirk Klynsmilh and John Morris/Mpix)

Network 10 broadcast times Saturday 6 October 12 noon - 5pm Sunday 7 October 7am - 5pm

\

Times correct at time of going to press.

Check your iocai TV guides for details 42

motorspon news

}

Allan Moffat’s factory-built 1969 Boss 302 Trans-Am Mustang is Australia’s most famous touring car, winning 101 times from 157 starts between 1969 and 1974, and now you can have your very own piece of motor sport history with a faibiuious 1/18-scale model of the great car.

Allan Moffat has personally supervised the production of this finely craftedi, sMciiy limited edition model of his favourite racing car to ensure it is accurate in every detai.

With opening doors and engine hood revealing fantastic details of interior and engine bay^ and correct sponsors decals, the Mustang will make a fine addition to your collbetion, or a great Christmas gift for the Mustang enthusiast in your family.

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Plenty of V8 Supercar teams have dynos, fabrication shops and even CNC milling machines. But few have a museum. Big Kev Racing has all that- it actually has two museums and a racetrack that it is not allowed to use. PHIL BRANAGAN took the tour and came away after seeing(almost) all there was to see Supercar teams with WHEN you think big set-ups, oneof V8 automatically puts Holden Racing Team and Shell Helix Racing at the front of the list.

The Melbourne-based Holden team and Dick Johnson’s Stapylton (Brisbane) bases have facilities that are the envy of most in pit lane and have set a trend for doing as much as possible in-house. Results show this; HRT and DJR head to Bathurst as many obseiwer’s favourites.

But there is another Queensland team which is well-equipped to take its ambitions into the new century.

Big Kev Racing operates as a kind of Holden outpost surrounded by Ford opposition on the Gold Coast, but the progress made by the team, both on and off the track, has marked it as one to watch at Mount Panorama.

Apart from Paul Morris, the always-smiling Big Kev has cemented his place in the Australian motor racing psyche.

The grinning man in the impressive shuds appears to sign as many- no, more - autographs in the paddock than any other person in V8 Supercar racing, a fact which sits l with the laid-back Momsjust fine.

Nothing that Morris and BKR have achieved this season has come around by accident. The team has made a substantial investment in the future at its Norwell base.

which is ideally located mid-way between Brisbane and Gold Coast (Coolangatta) airports, and which houses not only the race team, but the Holden Performance Driwng Centre.

The first thing that strikes you as you arrive at the HPDC is the sheer magnitude of the place. Over there, the administration block hums away, ensuring that the many facets ofthe facility ran smoothly.

Then, there are not one but two museums, adjoined by the race team HQ.The PDC track is always busy while, further over, fourwheel-drive enthusiasts gain the experience needed to go out into the wilderness and not get caught hke Russell Coight...

In the heart of all this, Morris and CO have quietly been assembling the pieces to build a successful V8 Supercar team. Given the team’s winning performance at Calder in July, and competitive outings elsewhere,the pieces are, obviously, starting to gel.

The PDC has actually been at the site for around a decade, but not so the race team. When BMW was involved with the Centre, the race team ran from the same facility, but when Mercedes-Benz was involved, it was politically difEcult to have contrasting German marques on site, so Monis’s race team moved to a nearby factoiy But this year, Holden took over the role of major supporter and the team retmmed to

Photo by Dirk Klynsmith

"We have almost every kimt of Holden here-from 48/215 to current model VXs. You name, we have r

-Paul Morris

Norwell after March’s Albert Park meeting.

Holden’s presence is everywhere, and varied. There are about 23 cars on hand for HPDC instructors and students, everything fi-om Barinas to Astras, Vectras, Commodores and 4WDs.

There are also guided tom-s of the facility, which is open to the public.

“There are three motorsport galleries,” explains Morris.“One of them is entirely dedicated to Holden. The second is a general gallery, and the third is om- race workshop, so people can come right through and see the cars being prepai’ed.”

Presumably, all the team’s ‘secret’ stuff is hidden from vie w ...

“We have almost every kind of Holden here - ft’oin 48/215 to

continued on page 46

motorspen news

r

SHEll CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

All’s well in Norwell: If you are a Holden man (or woman), the Holden Performance Driving Centre in Norwell is a Mecca tor the marque. Apart from Paul Morris and Big Kev Racing, the site’s two museums are a feast for the eye, with everything from Bathurst Brock Toranas and Commodore VS Supercars to 48/215s even to examples of the enemy’, like the Richards BMW 635CSI and the ex-Allan Moffat Peter Stuyvesant Mazda RX-7, (Photos by Marshall Cass)

V

V n

28 September 2001

Bathurst preview

2l.'"

continued from page 44 current model VXs.You name it, we have it; FEs, HDs,a couple of old Torana race cars. Private collectors have come forward from all around the country and loaned us their cars to put on display. That’s great for us, because there are plenty of cars for the public to see, and it’s good for the owners, because the cars are stored in an air-conditioned environment, with security and so on.

“There’s no shortage of people willing to have their cars on display here.”

There’s also a large amount of audio-visual display for visitors to see and hear, so even without getting into the race workshop, there’s a lot to see for the $5 admission charge for a tour - and Idds are free.

With the exception of off-the-shelf components for BKR’s Commodore VT and VX-like brakes, data

logging, seats etc - much of what you see on and in the yellow and orange cars is made right there in Norwell, from engine preparation to chassis fabrication,including complex items like suspension uprights.

The team has its own engine shop and dynos, a computer-

\\ The strictness of the rules is such that, it you start up your car and,for instance, drove it out the workshop door and to the truck, you have breached the testing regulations. Any piece of road or track is defined as a track. There's no loopholes"

-Paul Morns

controlled CNC milling machine and everything else needed to run two V8 Supercars- or two Super Tourers - at races. The raceshop is logically laid out and all the work is done in an unhurried, orderly fashion.

“Inside that(the raceshop), there is one area for race car preparation.

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46

and one for machining,” says Morris.

But there is no cast of thousands.

“Including me, there are 13 people working for the race team,” says Morris, who works at the shop in a ‘hands-on’role. “About the only thing that we can’t do here is the diff housing, which we som-ce from

Harrop Engineering in Melbomme.

“There’s a fair bit to do with the engines. We do rockers and valve springs every 1800-2000km, the rest of the engine about 4000km.

That’s not bad.

“There’s nothing to stop you building an engine which would not last that long. I think that that is

9, ii

an area where some ofthe regulations need to be tidied up a bit. In 1995, the engines in the BMWs ran for 5000km, but four years later, we had one that did

400km.

“Everything was so hght that it didn’t last. There was very little reciprocating weight.

“There is nothing to stop anyone who had the money getting custom components made that are very, very light. That’s not a good idea.”

And the development of Super Touring ‘hand-grenades’ happened within the framework of a rev-limit controlled category.

The team’s hardware travels around the country in one of two Pantechs, one for the BKR Commodore and one for the BMW Super Tourers, and Morris also has a converted coach motorhome to relax in during meetings.

One thing to which some people point is the fact that the HPDC track is right outside BKE’s workshop, a luxury not enjoyed by

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L. any other team. The team has nominated Queensland Raceway and Darlington Park as the team’s two test tracks and the tight AVESCO testing rules means that the racecar and the track are not acquainted; “We could nominate this track as one of our test tracks. But we haven’t. The rules are very clear; you have to notify AVESCO of your intent to test in writing three days before going testing and you have to allow other competitors to test with you.

“Your test log book has to be signed off by the proprietor of the circuit. It’s very strict.

“The strictness of the rules is

m A hands-on kinda guy: Morris himself spends a fair bit of time in the workshop, whether its on the BKR Commodore VT for Bathurst, far/eft, or repairing the VX (nicknamed Archie) that Matt Neal backed in at Oran Park. The dyno works long hours searching for horsepower, above, while even those funny-looking Holdens with the blue and white propeller badges have a spot in the race shop, below.

“Two cars is a huge commitment,” says Morris. “Our first job would be to find the money to run two cars - that’s the first hurdle. We have the facilities to do it, no question, and we are at the stage where we are running

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no loopholes.”

So Morris does not test around

So, what for the future? Will BKR run a two-car team in the future?

Matt Neal is flying in from England for the co-driver’s chair, and Big Kev is using his own cleaning products to get a whole load of loud shirts ready for the mountain - plus a handful of felt pens for autogi’aphs ...

If

such that, if you start up your car and, for instance, drove it out the workshop door and to the truck, you have breached the testing regulations. Any piece of road or track is defined as a track. There’s

the track, which is almost always busy, and which has proven to be popular with Gold Coast-based motoring writers shaking out the latest test cars ...

one car pretty competitively.

‘With the costs of running one car competitively at around $1.5 million, it already costs a fair bit.”

One day, it will happen, perhaps.

But for right now, Morris has a Bathurst on which to concentrate.

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Bathurst Preview Ashby Reed is not one person Trevor Ashby and Steve Reed are separate blokes who work and race together and are heading to Bathurst as co-drivers for the 16th straight year thing.You go into it Marriage is live a funny intending to Happily Ever After but sometimes,after a few years, things tm-n to heck and it’s over.

Trevor Ashby and Steve Reed’s ‘marriage’is now in its third decade. Many people don’t even realise that they are two people; you would be surprised how many people think that there is a V8 Supercar driver in Sydney named ‘Ashby Reed’...

The two Sydney drivers went to school together - then started a smash repairs business together then went racing together, first in a Sports Sedan and then in a Commodore.

And they are still together. Next month,they will share a car in their 16th Bathurst together.

“We first went to watch Bathurst with a bunch of guys in 1984 and we thought, We need to do this.

Let’s go’,” says Ashby.“Then we went in ’85 and we didn’t have a car. The following year, we bought a car and went, but we never thought about how long we would do it for.”

So, they went racing, sharing a car, Reed doing some circuits and Ashby doing the other before teaming up for the enduros.

‘The year 2000 was the first year we did the full circuit,” says Ashby.

“So last year, for the first time, we were both racing at tracks we’d never driven on before.”

But,like all marriages,things change. Ashby and Reed run Lansvale Smash Repairs and have 45 employees and felt that bringing in a paid driver with experience would help the six-strong team,led by former Holden Racing Team and Coke Racing boss Wally Storey. So the couple adopted a ‘son’Cameron McConvUle. ‘We decided after last season, with Steve and I both doing the whole series, that we were not really concentrating enough on it,” admits Ashby. “After one particular practice session, I remember getting Wally to ring the office and find out what was happening at work.

‘We wanted a full-time guy.”

So they drew up a list, and spoke to a number of drivers, and hired the first one to whom they spoke McConville.

“We raced against him, he didn’t 48

Ti SMASH REPAintsl

M^GRATfcLHOLD I

Changing Hues: Steve Reed guides the Lansvale Commodore VP he shared with Trevor Ashby, above, over the crest exiting The Cutting in 1994.

New ‘family’ member Cameron McConville, below, has slotted into the team well this season and is threatening to embarass some better-funded teams and drivers.

(Photos by Marshall Cass and AFI-lmages)

Made motorspon news

^SHEU CHAMPIOMSHIP SERIES

(fcfer.a

to Last

know where he was going for this season and we worked out a deal. It went from there.

“I have to say, when Steve and I leave the track, we are thinking about business. We willjump in the car and do 10 laps, and say it feels okay.

“But Cameron is different. He will drive it for two laps and come in and tell Wally,‘This is what it is doing and I want to change this’.

During the week, when we are working at Lansvale Smash Repairs, Cameron is with the race team, poring over data and trying to make the car go faster.”

McConvUIe has been a good fit with the team and is happy to be there.

“I did have an option to stay where I was(Rod Nash’s team)but it wasn’t concrete and it was getting into January,” he says.

“Steve rang me up and asked if I was committed, which I wasn’t at that time, and went and had a chat.

‘There were some good things there. I saw the new car and a second one parked next to it and the biggest thing that attracted me was a good engineer, in Wally Storey That’s so important in the category.

It had a steady budget and two guys very committed to it.

“There wasn’tjust talk about wanting things to happen, I could see things in the workshop and around me that meant that they were going to make it happen. I originally thought it was going to be a sideways step from where I’d been heading but it’s turned out to be a forward step.”

It certainly has. McConviUe has been a regular feature at the pointy end this season and has made the field for several Top-10 and Top-15 Shoot-outs.

“They’re certainly the best two guys I’ve driven for because they’re very easy-going,” he says.‘They control the team but they don’t dictate it- they’re very busy ruiming a successful business so they’re not around at the workshop every day. But you also know their priority’s still the race team as well as their business.”

For the first time, Lansvale will run two new Commodore VXs at the Mountain, the build ofthe latter delaying Ashby and Reed racing the team’s Commodore VS, which was set aside while they finished the new car.

“We thought it would be finished

by Eastern Creek,” says Ashby, “but it became obvious that it wouldn’t. Unless we stopped racing the second car, we would not have two for Bathm-st.”

So that’s what they did. And, with the level of competition getting tougher and tougher every race, Lansvale continues to make progress.

McConviUe and Rick Bates will suit up together for Bathurst, and McConviUe wUl stay with the team for next season. Ashby and Reed will go back to sharing a car in 2002 and, with Optus concluding its three-yeaisponsorship deal with the team,they ai'e searching for a replacement.

So, the ‘marriage’ goes into the new century. With a best finish of eighth (in 1987), the couple will be looking for better this season. And, just for good measure, while Storey runs the McConville/Bates entry, Ashby and Reed’s VX will be run by Ron Gillard, who used to look after the team’s preparation from his Ballina workshop, and returns to the team after a long break.

Don’t you just(owe family reunions?

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Bathurst preitlew

The Brains' Trust With car speed and reliability so close in the modern V8 era, team strata^ and tactical calls can make all the difference at Bathurst CHRIS LAMBDEN looks at how the teams implement their plans

T

HE Bathurst V8 Supercar race is becoming more like NASCAR every year.

Gone are the days of the breakaway winner, margins of a lap or more. With Safety Cars now in play whenever there’s a bingle of any note, and the sheer closeness of car performance, it has become a race of two parts.

If there’s an endurance element to the lOOOkms,it’s the first 127 laps of the 161. In simplistic form, the current cars are good for 34-36 laps on a full tank of gas,flat-out.

So anyone who thinks they are going to win Bathurst has to be fully fuelled, on fresh rubber, with all the other mechanical aspects particularly brakes - in top condition, with a top level driver at the wheel and be handily placed at lap 125 or so for the sprint to the finish.

Which is what the final stint, at least, has become.

Everything, strategically, works backwards from there. To be in the frame, you’ve got to be thereabouts and fighting fit.

Safety Car periods or weather changes are the things most likely to affect that basic approach. A late Safety Car, within that final stint, can bring teams back from nowhere.

However, the biggest change over the past two or three years has been the departure from the older philosophy of simply ‘looking after the car and staying on the lead lap for that final sprint.’

While that’s a minimum requirement, the intensity and

closeness of competition has many lead teams preparing for an ‘allthe-way’ sprint.

“In some ways, tactics are less difficult at Bathurst than the Queensland 500,” Dean ‘Curl’ Orr from the Shell team says.

“The length of the 500 is such that the fuel ‘windows’are quite flexible and there are a lot of options.

“At Bathurst- starting from the basis of a clear, uninterrupted race - four stops equals 33 laps per stint. Very few cars will get more than 35 laps to a tankful, so there’s only a lap or so leeway.

“But of course it rarely works out quite like that...”

The Shell team is one of several now pairing both its regular drivers in a lead car: “You have to,” Curl continues.

“You have to be prepared to go

You can't simulate every possible thing that could happen

II

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-JeffSrech

HRT’s Jeff Grech

r iF'irr Castrol’s Barry Abbetmeyer

GRM’s Garry Rogers

The Blues Brothers: Marcos Ambrose heads to Bathurst as a hot rookie and will rely heavily on the experienced Jimmy and Ross Stone.

(Pholo by Slipstream)

flat-out all the way...”

Garry Rogers, team-owner of the defending Bathurst winners agi'ees: ‘Tou simply must pair your two fastest from throughout the year.

You have to build a car that can be driven as fast at the end as the start. That means everything particularly things hke brake knock-off- have to be covered, so your drivers can push on with confidence.”

Stone Brothers Racing’s Ross Stone backs up the view that brake condition is just as critical by suggesting that “for the first time, you might see somebody make two brake pad changes. It can be done now in the same time it takes to refuel, so it’s an option, to keep everything in its best shape.”

Tactically the leading teams spend some time preparing a list of ‘options’ or ‘scenarios’in the leadup to the race, to pre-prepare their reaction to varying situations.

In some cases, these are simply in the back of the mind. Some teams prepare a formal list, others merge the options into their raceday computer data.

“We have 5-10 scenarios in our draft plan,” HRT’s Jeff Grech told us, “based on our evaluation of the past three or fom' races - it’s not worth going any further back than that.

“You can’t simulate every possible thing that could happen, but you can keep the people who are making the decisions up-todate with important information laps, fuel load, driver time,fuel and pad change windows and so on.”

The decision-making, particularly the instantaneous calls which have to be made when there’s an incident and possible Safety Car, are pretty much all made by one, or two, people in each pit. Gone are the days of‘in-car’ management.

“In the early days, we ran just one car and there were less Pace Car periods,” confii-ms LaiTy Perkins, “so you could call it from the cockpit.

“Nowadays,though you can have some input, the key people in the pits have to make the calls.”

Who will make the big calls come race day? moiorsDort news

1

^SHtU CHAMPIONSHIP SEBIiS Not a bad backstop: While Dean ‘Curl’ Orr will be calling the shots for the Shell Helix Falcons, it can't hurt to have a three-time Bathurst winner in Dick Johnson backing you up ...

(Photo by Dirk Kiynsmith)

In LP’s case, the experienced Barry Abbetmeyer and Sean Hockey confer and decide. At HRT, engineers Richard Holding and Robbie Starr(Car 1) and Pete Smith/Matthew Crawford (Car 2) make the calls.

At Shell, Dean Orr has substantial assistance -from fullon race strategists Bob Webb (#18) and Aaron Benny (#17)- but will take final responsibility for the decisions.

At SBR,Ian Chapman constantly up-dates the computer spread sheet and is in constant radio contact with engineers Campbell Little (#9) and Paul Forgie (#4), who make the calls.

All along pit lane it will be the same, to some degree. While the aces behind the wheel are the ones who get to stand on the rostrum, these are the guys faced with the pressure decisions which can quite simply make or break the race ...

V8 Supercar

msmsm

Car Drivers HRT Commodore VX Mark Skaife/Tony Longhurst HRT Commodore VX Jason Bright/Tomas Mezera Lansvala Commodore VX Steve Reed/Trevor Ashby Pirtek Falcon AU Marcos AmbroseA/Vayne Wakefield FTR Falcon AU Glenn Seton/Steven Richards FTR Falcon AU Jim Richards/Dean Canto Rodney Forbes Racing Falcon AU Rodney Forbes/David Parsons Castrol Commodore VX Luke Youlden/Adam Macrow Caltex Havoline Falcon AU 9 David Besnard/Matthew White 10 Mark Larkham/Wayne Gardner DecoRug Falcon AU 00 Craig Lowndes/Neil Crompton Gibson Motorsport Falcon AU Castrol Perkins Commodore VX 11 Larry Perkins/Russell Ingall Delta Smartcar/IMS Commodore VX 14 James Brock/Steve Owen Kmart Commodore VX 15 Greg Murphy/Todd Kelly 16 Dugal McDougall/Andrew Miedecke Pepsi Commodore VX Shell Helix Falcon AU 17 Steven Johnson/Paul Radisich Shell Helix Falcon AU 18 Cameron McLean/Greg Ritter Eastern Creek Karts Falcon EL 20 Garry Holt/Kevin Mundy Team Kiwi Commodore VX 021 Jason Richards/Angus Fogg OzEmail Falcon AU 21 Brad Jones/John Cleland 23 Cameron McConville/Rick Bates Optus Commodore VX HYL Commodore VX 24 Paul Romano/Owen Kelly Oneworld Falcon AU 25 Terry Wyhoon/Rod Salmon 29 Paul Morris/Matt Neal Big Kev Commodore VX 31 Steve Ellery/Geoft Brabham Super Cheap Falcon AU Valvoline Commodore VX 34 Garth Tander/Jason Bargwanna Valvoline Commodore VT 35 Leanne Ferrier/Paul Dumbrell 37 Bill Attard/Roger Hurd Xerox Shop Commodore VS K&J Thermal Falcon AU 43 Paul Weel/Tim Leahey RPM Int Falcon AU 45 Phil Scifleet/Christian D'Agostin JFR Commodore VX 46 John Faulkner/Peter Doulman Ultra Tune Commodore VX 50 Mick Donaher/Layton Crambrook Kmart Commodore VX 51 Nathan Pretty/Rick Kelly RNR Commodore VX 54 Rod Nash/Tony Ricciardello 3M Falcon AU 61 Ross Halliday/Greg Crick Toll Falcon AU 75 Anthony Tratt/Alan Jones Castrol/Harris Falcon AU Craig Harris/Michael Simpson NRC Racing Commodore VS 90 Ric Shaw/Mike Conway Coopers Falcon AU 500 Alan Heath/Dale Brede CAT Falcon AU 600 John Bowe/Simon Wills Bud Falcon AU 888 Mark Noske/Craig Baird

No 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

AVAILABLE FROM ON TRACK OUTLETS IN HARRIS PARK AND TME MILL AND VARIOUS RETAILERS. FOR INFORMATION CALL 1800 252 620 *ltem colours may vary slightly from this advertisement

AdiE — 53

28 September 2001

Balhursl prewiew

My first

Bathurst /4 racing driver's first Bathurst 1000 can be a lot of things. Nervewracking, scary, enjoyable, you name it AARON NOONAN asked a handful of drivers about their ‘virgin' experience at the Mountain, their thoughts and feelings, memories and the like as the 2001 version of the race roars into life.

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NLIKE many of his V8 rivals, Greg Murphy made his Mountain debut in a two-litre car -a Toyota Carina that he’d run in the inaugural two-litre series that year, 1994.

“I half crapped myself when I drove around the circuit for the first time In a road car - It looked a lot steeper than on TV. “I have fond memories of the race but the thing I remember most was that it started in heavy rain and the little Toyota was on Michelin wets, it was very good and I started 33rd and, at the end of lap one, I was 22nd. The thing was great in the wet, but

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The wet of1994; While Junior Johnson didn't take over the #18 car until a dry line appeared on the race track, Allan Grice and John Boweflew the Shell-FAIflag. Johnson/Bowe won the race, while Junior was eighth and .second rookie home.

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HILE Steven Johnson may have been overshadowed by all of the hype surrounding Craig Lowndes' Bathurst debut in 1994, 'Junior' certainly impressed a lot of people on that trying day when he teamed up with two-time winner Allan Grice in the #18 DJR Falcon.

"I still get nervous now going into a race but it was the same back then, except I was a tad bit younger. Sure, it was 54

(Photo hy Marshall Cass)

nervous but I was only a fourth driver. Racing in the Oran Park sprint round was probably more nerve-wracking than Bathurst.

"I remember getting into the car for the first time and all the practice sessions and qualifying and all that sort of stuff. I remember following my dad around after a red flag and we both were on new sets of tyres.

"He ended up quickest or second quickest in the session with a 2m12.8s or something, and I ended up 2m13.7s, two

seconds faster than Lowndes.

"In the race, Gricey stuck it in the sandpit and lost a few laps.

We were three down and we ended up two down and in eighth spot. We were one of the best cars on the track all day and I felt really good in the race.

"It feels the same every year.

You've got the same garages, the same workshops and the like, but obviously this year's going to be a lot different with the track re-surfaced all the way around,"

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motorspoit news

^SHiU CHAMPIOWSHIP SIBUS Whose that Kiwi kid driving with James Kaye?

Rookie Richo Photo !iv Bri'.litiitf Miiifrsport/Vixtiiiuar,

H the spray was unbelievable. I was young and stupid then and just drove through the spray.

“I remember coming up behind the number 11 Castrol car of Larry Perkins struggling along in wet and I caught him! It was pretty amazing and then I tried to get past and LP could see this little Toyota behind and he wasn’t too happy.

“All I could see was this fist waving at me out the window. I thought something was wrong, but there were no yellows. It’s just that he didn’t like It! The Pace Car came out soon after and that was the last I ever saw

I don’t need reminding!

Cameron McConville’s Bathurst debut in 1993 was one that took a whilefor many followers ofthe sport toforget.

(Photo hy Chin-nm Publishing)

of him for the race.

‘The hard parts across the top of the Mountain took the longest to get used to where it’s very fast and not very wide.

“Also, it was my first time there against the big V8s and getting out of the way -because they didn’t want you there in the first place - was Interesting.

“The car broke a fuel rail and lost a fair few laps In the pits but we got back out and ran 23rd.

“I just love going there - you can’t get enough of the place.

The week’s over too quickly you can just never get enough laps around the place."

AVING been a leading light in Super Touring in the privateer Valvoline Alfa Super Tourer,Steven Richards' Bathurst debut in 1995 netted him Rookie of the Year honours,finishing fourth with Anders Olof^n in the second Winfield Commodore.

"I was pretty excited and all 1 wanted to do was not go there and make a fool of myself. The priority was to learn as much as I could from someone like Anders. We were looking at a good top 10 finish and if we had a great day we'd be in the top five and the natural rate of attrition that was still around then put us fourth.

"In the last stint, we were fifth, 1 was in at the end and the highlight for me was that Brad Jones and Win Percy were fourth and basically we hunted them down. I got by and finished fourth.

"Driving the circuit wasn't a real problem, Anders did the qualifying so it was a case of getting used to the car in the race and as it turned out, I remember my best lap was half a second off Skaifey and, at that stage, they (Skaife and Jim Richards) were leading by a lap over Larry Perkins, who went on to win the race.

"On Saturday night (before the race) I like to get together with the team and not have a late night, have a bit of a laugh, watch.a bit of TV, have something to eat and get an early night."

It works, for Richo has been on the podium in his last five Bathurst 1000km starts ...

Ancient history things, Cameron McConville’s Bathurst IN the harsh reality of dehut put his racing career hack three or four years. Some people don’t let the Victorian forget the sight of the #18 Shell Ford slamming the concrete at the top of the Mountain in 1993.

“It’s ancient history,” he says.

“The year before I got a test with Dick through the Shell Young Guns Award and won the Formula Ford title and they asked me to go to Bathurst as a reseiwe driver for the second car of Greg Crick and Terry Shiel.

“I did about 40 laps practice and they told me they were going to stick me in at the end of the race, when of com'se the thunderstorm hit. So I didn’t get a run.

“In 1993 they signed me up to do Sandown and Bathurst, and we were running third (with Paul Radisich) at Bathurst and I certainly wasn’t in over my head.

“I clipped a kerb going down Skyline as I was looking in the mirror at Mezera coming up on me in the HRT car,just missed grabbing second gear for an instant and it locked the rears and smacked the wall.

“We dropped back to 26th or something and got to eighth but the damage was done for a while as far as my career was concerned.

I was one of the first young guys to get a go and they said ‘that’s what happens when you give young guys a go’.

“The biggest thing I remember was waldng up the next day with

tlie biggest whiplash from hell. I was an advocate for window nets after that.”

An interesting sidebar to McConville’s Bathurst career, is that, apart from two years with the Audi squad, he’s never raced with the same team in consecutive years, though that doesn’t stop some Bathurst traditions.

“It’s good to go back. There’s things about it every year.

“I still stop at Lithgow Maccas for a healthy orange juice on the way up - there’s all those sorts of superstitions.

“At Bathurst I don’t expect any glamour. I expect to be at the track at 7;30am every morning and leave at eight or nine o’clock every night.”

55 28 September 2001

Balhursi pre«lew

Getting tipsy

The only really predictable thing about Bathurst is that it’s a race track in New South Wales and there’s going to be a long car race there on October 7. We assembled a panel of experts -or people who think they’re experts -and got them to deliver their predictions...

Peter Brock 9-time Bathurst winner 1.

#17

Johnson/Radisich

2, 3,

#1 #15

Skaife/Longhurst Murphy/Kelly

Fact-Finding

PROVING its worth as a developer of young talent, 11 of the last 13 Formula Ford series champions are in the field.

Allan Moffat

Mark Larkham, Russell Ingall, Cameron McConviile, Craig Lowndes, Steven Richards, Jason Bright, David Besnard, Garth Tander, Adam Macrow, Greg Ritter and Luke Youlden are all in this year's Bathurst field. The two missing are Troy Dunstan and Will Davison.

4-time Bathurst winner 1.

2.

3.

#1 #11 #4

Skaife/Longhurst Perkins/Ingall Ambrose/Wakefield

Bill Woods

Host, Network lO's RPM

1.

2.

#11 #17

Perkins/Ingall Johnson/Radisich

3.

#1

Skaife/Longhurst

n After two years, Paul Dumbrell finally loses his title as the youngest driver in the race. It's been taken

3^

from him by team Kmart’s new boy, Rick Kelly, who on race day will be 18 years and 263 days old.

Barrv Oliuor Shell Series On-Track commentator 1. #17 2. #11 3. #600

Johnson/Radisich Perkins/Ingall Bowe/Wills <. roots

#1 #2 #11

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Cummins

Glenn McGrath Australian fast bowler 1.

2, 3.

0

Skaife/Longhurst Bright/Mezera Perkins/Ingall 1^

Mark Webber Benetton FI test driver and F3000 star 1.

#5

Seton/S. Richards

2.

3.

#11 #17

Perkins/Ingall Johnson/Radisich

Alan Gow

Former TOCA boss, manages James Courtney

1.

2.

3.

#17

Johnson/Radisich

#1 #11

Skaife/Longhurst Perkins/Ingall

Colin McBae

Ford rally star and current WRC co-leader

1.

2.

3.

#00 #17 #5

Lowndes/Crompton Johnson/Radisich Seton/S. Richards

Not thefavourites: After a real struggle in 2001, defending Champions Garth Tander and Jason Bargwanna haven’t even entered the minds ofour expert tippers. {Photo by Dirk KlynsmilhI Can they prove them wrong on October T!

Phil Branagan Editor, Austraiasian Motorsport News 1, 2.

3.

#11 #5 #4

Perkins/Ingall Seton/Richards Ambrose/Wakefield

Chris Lambden

Publisher, Australasian Motorsport News

1.

2.

3.

#17 #1 #15

Mark Glendenning

Staff Journalist, Australasian Motorsport News 1.

2.

#11 #17

Perkins/Ingall Johnson/Radisich

3.

#15

Murphy/Kelly

Wiii Bavison

2001 Australian Formula Ford Champion

Johnson/Radisich

1.

#17

Johnson/Radisich

Skaife/Longhurst Murphy/Kelly

2.

3.

#1 #00

Skaife/Longhurst Lowndes/Crompton

Bichard Burns

Aaron Noonan

Staff Journalist, Australasian Motorsport News

Sharon Phipps Sharon Phipps Promotions

1.

#5

Seton/S. Richards

#17

Johnson/Radisich

#00 #17

Lowndes/Crompton Johnson/Radisich

1.

2, 3.

1.

2.

3.

2.

3.

#11 #5

Perkins/Ingall Seton/S. Richards

Subaru rally star and winner of Rally NZ

56

#15 #17

Murphy/Kelly Johnson/Radisich

#1

Skaife/Longhurst

n Jim Richards will line up for his 30th Bathurst enduro, equalling the record held by Peter Brock and Bob Holden. At the opposite end, six drivers will compete for the now unofficial 'Rookie of the Year' with Marcos Ambrose the favourite to beat Dale Brede, Leanne Ferrier, Kevin Mundy, Rick Kelly and Michael Simpson. Of those rookies, both Ferrier and Simpson have had staits in the GT-P 3 Hour and Ferrier too was in the 1999 Super Touring 500 event but didn't get a drive. n This year there are 21 Fords and 20 Holdens in the entry. This is the first time since 1981 that Ford have out-numbered Holden, but that required the assistance of Capri and Escort class cars. The last time the Falcons outnumbered the outright Holdens was 1971, when 13 Falcon XY GTHOs faced lOToranaLXXUls. n In the V8 Supercar era, the current scoreboard reads six wins for Holden and just two for Ford. n The 2001 race will see a Top 15 Shootout for the first time after the 1978 introduction of the Top 10.

The last crew to win from pole position in a V8 Supercar 1000, (Richards/Rydell won from pole in the 1998 Super Tourer race) were Larry Perkins and the late Gregg Hansford in 1993.

- MARK JONES/AAROIMIMOONAN motorsport news

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Italian Grand Prix After the trauma ofSeptember 11, the motor racing world tried to return to normality at Monza.

NICK CARTON reports on the day that Juan Montoya, BMW and Williams made the 2001 Italian Grand Prix n n n

Bonze Juan Montoya Barrichello usurped rated team-mates a Colombian ove Brazilian in a private v\ first (Photo by Marsh/Bc

FORMULA ONE

I

N the face of what had been a di-eadful week, Juan Montoya took a memorable maiden Grand Prix win on the one of the gi-eat stages of world motor racing, the Autodromo Nazionale di Monza.

The Colombian finally fulfilled the promise he had shown on number of occasions through the 2001 season, taldng an effortless (and expected) pole position in qualifying and backing it up with a strong performance on raceday.

Rubens Banichello made it a South American 1-2, taking second in both qualifying and the race.

The Brazilian overshadowed a subdued Michael Schumacher both on Saturday and Sunday and may have won save for a rare sub-par performance in the pits, Feirari mechanics caught unaware when Rubens pitted the first time, the anomaly costing eight seconds.

The thrilling BMW.Williams versus Fen'ari battle was unintermpted all weekend, McLaren roimdly shooting itself in the foot with a lack of carspeed, mistakes by drivers and,finally, rampant unreliability on a weekend the House of Woking will want to forget.

There was also plenty of controversy. After considerable debate as to whether the race should have been staged at all, there was something of a driver ‘revolt’ before the start, Michael Schumacher and others seeking to have the drivers adopt a ‘no passing’ policy through the first chicane. In the end, the matter was put down, but only after leaving a nasty taste in many mouths nothing that the events of the preceding week had not done already.

AS if the enough, mood at raceday Monza was not gloomy dawned with the terrible news of Alex Zanardi’s life-threatening crash at the Lausitzring’s CART race, the popular former Wilhams, Lotus and Jordan driver having many friends on both sides of the pit wall.

After an impromptu gathering of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, the drivers reappeared en masse for their lap of honour on the back of a truck to greet thenfans, pausing for a minute’s silence in order to continue honouring the dead fi-om the terrorist attack in America.

As the truck circulated, however, a lively debate was waged amongst the drivers, with Heinz-Harald Frentzen surrounded by an animated Michael Schumacher, Jarno TruUi and Pedro de la Rosa amongst others, with a second continued on page 60 59

Italian Grand Prix continued from page 59 group including David Coulthard, Kimi Raikkonen, Jacques Villeneuve and Juan Pablo Montoya.

Michael Schumacher spoke out after the fracas, explaining the situation to the circuit commentators. “After the things that have happened this week, in the United States and with Zanardi in hospital badly hurt, you have to question if we should be racing,” he said.

“It’s been a weekend everything is obviously not right and we question whether we are right to race. After last year we had a meeting and we decided that after the start there should be no overtaking in the first two chicanes. One driver has not agreed. It’s pretty obvious. He’s small.”

The search for a small person who was likely to want to go flat out come hell or high water didn’t take very long.

“I am a racing driver -1 am going to race,” said Jacques Villeneuve, impish grin firmly in place and backed up by the Benetton, An-ows and Minardi drivers.

So, the race went on.

After the performances of the BMWs in qualifying, it looked like a case of Williams versus the Rest, and that is how it turned out.

Montoya leapt away at the start from Barrichello, while the family Schumacher dabbled with sibling rivalry at the Lesmos, Michael ensuring that Ralf got the message when he left him a choice of lifting or crashing on the way out- Ralf wisely settled for the latter.

But all was not well in Montoya’s car - or, rather, on it. After pulling a small lead, he started to blister his rear Michelins and Barrichello hauled him in, knifing by at the Lesmos on lap 8 and leaving Juan to fend off Michael.

The Ferraris were on a clear twostop pace, Schumacher peeling into the pits on lap 18 for a 10s stop, but Barrichello arrived a lap later to find the men in red anything but ready. After fumbling away with hoses, the Brazilian was 8s worse off and that decided the race.

Montoya looked safe and had a little front wing taken off on his sole pitstop, Ralffollowing his lead on lap 34. That left Rubinho in front, but the gap was never going to be enough and, when he made his second stop, he split the Williams pair and all Montoya had to do was keep going.

Which he did.

“Everyone that’s been supporting me I want to say thanks,” said Montoya. “It was a tough season so far, we had good and bad results, a lot of bad luck and now we turn 60

another page. Three poles and a win is not so bad.”

Indeed it is not. And the next race is at Indianapolis, where the Colombian’s record is one start, one win - the 2000 Indy 500.

Ralf looked solid, though Barrichello was handing him plenty of pressure and, with his set-up fading, he had to straightline a chicane, handing his spot to the Brazilian in a gentlemanly display. He was flat out-sped by his team-mate and Barrichello and the next races and the emerging battle for superiority with Montoya - will have much to say about how the Williams pecking order for 2002 is formed.

-y Mecca^

Ferrari filled and fourth, not what thesecond 'Tifosi came to see. but it was a rare off weekend for the team.

Barrichello looked to have the measure of both Williams drivers when he passed them in the race and, for that matter, the measure of his team-mate who, after his effort to organise the drivers on the grid, looked like his heart was simply not in it this time around.

“Luckily, everything went well and nothing happened,” said the Champion-elect after the race. “I am glad this weekend is over.”

!

pedro la Rosa wasThe fifth in a greatde performance.

Spaniard looked like scoring points all race, and the R2 was blessed with reliability, which allowed him to post his best finish since the Canadian GP in June. Both Jags started the race on a one-stop strategy.

“That’s the boost we’ve been waiting for,” he said later. “The past few races haven’t been veiy good and I am just delighted for everybody in the team. Everything went like clockwork today.”

Eddie Irvine’s race resembled anything like the workings of a clock. He emerged from the first chicane melee in seventh but soon his Cosworth started losing perfoimiance and he was called into the pits on lap 18 while the team pondered the problem.

After the race, team engineers diagnosed a broken sparkplug as the cause of the problem.

“What can I say!” mused Irvine after the race.

Not much, apparently.

The Villeneuve. final point Both went BAR-Hondas to were on a one-stop strategy and Villeneuve vaulted into the top six by mid-race, despite having a train of cars lined up behind him, headed

by McLaren-botmd Kimi Raikkonen.

I

QUAIIFYIN6 isailan Oi¥llll POSDRIVER 1 Juan Montoya 2 Rubens Barrichello 3 Michael Schumacher 4 Ralf Schumacher 5 Jarno Trulli 6 David Coulthard 7 Mika Hakkinen 8 Nick Heidfeld 9 Kimi Raikkonen 10 Pedro de la Rosa 11 Jenson Button 12 Heinz-Harald Frentzen 13 Eddie Irvine 14 Giancarlo Fisichella 15 Jacques Villeneuve 16 JeanAlesi 17 Olivier Fanis 18 Enrique Bernoldi 19 Jos Verstappen 20 Tomas Enge 21 Fernando Alonso 22 Alex Yoong

INNOVATIONS]

NAT Col Bra 0 0 Ita GB Fin 0 Fin Spa GB 0 GB Ita Can F F Bra N Cz Spa Mai

eiR BMW.Williams FW23 Scuderia Ferrari F2001 Scuderia Ferrari F2001 BMW.Williams FW23 Benson & Hedges Jordan Honda EJll West McLaren Mercedes MP4/16 West McLaren Mercedes MP4/16 Red Bull Sauber Petronas C20 Red Bull Sauber Petronas C20 Jaguar Cosworth R2 Mild Seven Benetton Renault B201 Prost Acer AP 04 Jaguar Cosworth R2 Mild Seven Benetton Renault 8201 Lucky Strike BAR Honda 003 Benson & Hedges Jordan Honda EJl 1 Lucky Strike BAR Honda 003 Orange Arrows Asiatech A22 Orange Arrows Asiatech A22 Prost Acer AP 04 Minardi European PSOl Minardi European PSOl

TYRE M B B M 8 B B B B M M M M M B B B B B M M M

TIME ] lm22.216 ] lm22.52S lm22.624 1m22.841 lm23.126 lm23.148 lm23.394 1 lm23.417 j lm23.595 ' Im23.693 ! lm23.892 lm23.943 lm24.031 lm24.090 lm24.164 lm24.198 lm24.677 1m25.444 lm25.511 Im26.039 lin26.218 lm27.483

Innovations

producers and suppliers of the Official Australian Grand Prix Port wurtw-ceramlclnnovations.com.au ph 03 9555 9DIB

Jacques also suffered from a slow moiorsRort news

FORMULA ONE

^OST

which lap was this. Any of Juan Monioyo s three qualifying laps w as good enough jor pole.

The Boys in Blue: Tomas Enge graduated from F3000 and showed some speed in the Prost-Acer, qualifying 20th.

Nick Heidfeld, left, out-qualified Kimi Raikkonen, but his race was ruined when his race car developed a fuel leak on the grid.

(Photos by Sutton-lmages and Marsh/Bothwell)

mid-race pitstop, but the performance of the car was such that he had not looked like threatening de la Rosa anyway.

The Lucky Strike cars did not have a sm-plus of straight-line speed, a fact demonstrated by Olivier Panis’inability to find a way past Enrique Bernoldi’s An'ows for much of the race, which meant that the Frenchman could do no better than ninth by the end of the race.

I

t was a mixed weekend for Sauber.

The Friday confirmation that Raikkonen will drive for McLaren next season will have repercussions in the future, perhaps with an engine supply deal for 2003, but the battle for fourth in the Constructors’ title looks like going to the wire, with BAR now within three points.

Raikkonen was given little choice but to trail home behind Villeneuve in the race, but he was without the company of team-mate Nick Heidfeld, whose race car was found to have an hydraulic problem on continued on page 62 28 September 2001

It's as easy as 1,2,3

THE longest journey can start with a single step and there were plenty of steps being used at the start and the finish of the quaiifying session.

First off the rank was Minardi, with both black cars heading out of pit lane and down to the first chicane - where they stopped in rapid succession.

The team was using a new gearbox for the first time and both broke, leaving Fernando Alonso, right, and Alex Yoong to jog back to the pits and share the spare, which had been fitted with the old gearbox. Under the circumstances, it was a good effort from the team to fit enough laps in for both drivers to qualify within the 107 percent rule, particularly rookie Yoong, who had limited practice after car problems.

It ended with Mika Hakkinen walling his McLaren after exiting the second Lesmo wide, hammering the barrier with sickening force.

"The car went sideways and I just couldn't recover," said the Finn. "I thought that if I lifted it would be worse so I just kept my foot down, but the car snapped before I managed to get it back on the circuit and I went in the barrier."

But the race at the sharp end was all about Juan Montoya. By the time he took to the track, Michael Schumacher had just snatched pole from brother Ralf by 0.03s, but the Colombian bested the Ferrari by 0.25s before Michael responded - but

not by enough to take back pole. ; Then, a Ferrari took second - ! but it was Barrichello, running hard and looking like the closest n challenger to Williams. Then ' Montoya responded, going three-tenths clear before the 13 n minute stoppage to clear Flakkinen's wreckage.

Predicably. there was a final , flurry. Ralf Schumacher ! bumped his brother to fourth, .

Barrichello took another shot i and missed and Montoya went out to, if necessary, i defend his honour. It wasn't needed, but Juan's final run split his first two - and all three times were good enough for pole in a crushing i display of superiority. , Jarno Trulli put in his usual late-session effort to bag fifth, ; Coulthard and Flakkinen were ' sixth and seventh ahead of the : Sauber twins, Nick Heidfeld besting Kimi Raikkonen, who had emerged unscathed from : an enormous practice shunt, s while Jenson Button took the I honours in the Benetton battie with a good 11th. 0.2s up on Giancarlo Fisicheiia.

Eddie Irvine? He was 13f^. . Not bad - but Pedro de ia i Rosa was 10th. three-tenths faster to beat the Irishman m qualifying agam. That's five times in a row. Eddie. I^ive.

Two races remain ...

61

Italian Grand Prix r-

FI remembers

Yep, an Arrows leads a McLaren: Enrique Bernoldi holds the recovering (Photo by MarsfVBothwell) Mika Flakkinen back before the MP4/16 lost its gears. continued from page 61 the line and he was forced to start from the pit lane in the spare car.

By the end of the race he was 11th.

T

he man ahead of Raikkonen for much ofthe race was Jean Alesi.

Jordan’s veteran looked like the Alesi of old for the first quarter of the race, the stars and stripes bedecked yellow car showing prodigious straight-line speed as he consistently clocked over 350kmh before he braked for the first chicane, having rung up 359.6kmh in qualifying.

But the performance flattered to deceive, Alesi stopping early on a two-stop strategy, then suffering a massive flat spot after locking up during his second stint. Thereafter, he was forced to play the conservative role and cruised home to eighth.

But he went much, much further than his team-mate. Jarno Ti’ulli qualified strongly, as usual, but as he turned into the first chicane he was set upon by the out-of-control Benetton of Jenson Button. The Englishman had made a gi-eat start, adding the opportmiity to slot across the grid spot vacated by

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62

Heidfeld to Benetton’s exemplary launch control, but he overdid it and clattered Jarno off the road and into retirement.

“I made a great start, but at the first corner I think I had strayed too far to the inside, where it was quite dirty and oily, perhaps fi-om the Porsche race earlier on today,” said the Brit later. “I braked at the same time as everyone else, but I couldn’t stop in time to avoid Ti-ulli.”

Thereafter, Button pitted for a new nose and returned, only for the engine to expire four laps later. Not a great way to enter a partnership with Ti'ulli at Renault next season - assuming that reports that Button will be handballed out of the team are incorrect.

Giancarlo Fisichella was forced to start from pit lane in his spare car after his intended race car displayed a fuel leak on the grid.

He made good early progress but the traction control was playing up and, without it, his tyres faded badly, leaving him in 10th.

IN a week when capitalism itself was attacked in New York and Washington DC,the Formula 1 community - that most capitalistic gathering of people - showed that the pursuit of the dollar is not the most poignant of matters.

From the moment they rolled out of the transporters from Maranello the Ferraris were adorned by red paint and black noses - nothing else. Even their garages were in simple red, the crews were in plain team outfits and Michael Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello wore simple red suits - though, on close inspection, the white stitching on the front bore resemblance to the familiar branding they

wear in tobacco-friendly races.

As the weekend wore on, so other teams adopted some identification with their American cousins. Jordan sponsor Deutsche Post gave up their right to adorn the airboxes on Eddie's EJ11-Flondas, replacing the logos with the stars and stripes, while Jaguar rolled out their R2s with blacked-out airboxes replacing the leaping cat.

In the spectator areas, American flags were as noticeable as Ferrari ones, a sign that, despite their passion for all things red and Italian, their hearts of the faithful were feeling as heavy as the rest of

Showing its colours; FI teams showed differing tributes to thefallen in.

(I'hntns by Suutm-hnu^es and MankiBniliwvlH the USA;Jordan, Ferrari and Jaguar.

w

ith the viewers of the old iron curtain and Asia watching their new GP drivers for the first continued on page 64

Contact your state's karting office for details The Australian Karting Association Inc For information about kartinj> & how to gel started call NSW

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Italian Grand Prix RESULTS Italian GP. 16 September 2001, 53 laps/306.749km j

COMPAQ 91 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

Montoya Barriohello R. Schumacher M. Schumacher de la Rosa Vilieneuve Raikkonen Alesi Panis Fisichella Heldfeld Enge Alonso

Retirements Bernoldl Yoong Frentzen Verstappen Hakkinen Irvine Coulthard Button Trulll

Ihl6m58.493 Ihl7m03.668 Ihl7m15.828 Ihl7m23.484 Ih18ml3.477 Ihl8m20.962 Ih18m21.600 52 laps 52 laps 52 laps 52 laps 52 laps snaps

nMDiurfe' lm25.657 lm25.221 lm25.073 lm25.525 lm26.3Sl lm26.657 lm26.656 lm26.365 lm26.386 1m27.283 lm26.825 lm27,643 lm27.709

The Panic Button: Jenson Button made a great start - and then caused this at the first chicane, 46 laps Engine 44 laps Spun off 28 laps Gearbox 25 laps Engine 19 laps Gearbox 14 laps Sparkplug 6 laps Engine 4 laps Engine 0 laps Collision

Fastest lap: R. Schumacher, on lap 39, lm25.073 Drivers' points: M.Schumacher 107, Coulthard 57, Barrichello 54.

Schumacher 48. Montoya 25, Hakkinen 24, Vilieneuve 12, Heidfetd 11, Raikkonen 9, Trulli 8, Fisichella 8, Frentzen 6, Panis 5, Alesi 5, Irvine 4, de ta Rosa 3, Button 2, Verstappen!.

Constructors' points: Ferrari 161, McLaren/MercedesSI, BMW.Wi!liams73, Sauber/Peironas 20, BAR/Honda 17, Jordan/Honda 16, Benetton/Renault 10, Jaguar/Cosworth 7, Prost/Acer4, Arrows/Asiatech 1.

INNOVATIONS

V^rvLT5^

continued from page 62 time, there was plenty of pressure on Tomas Enge,the Czech F3000 graduate making a good fist of his first FI staid to come home in 12th.

“I learned a lot,” he said. “All this is new to me but I managed to complete this Grand Prix without making a mistake. I am delighted.”

He actually looked alright in the race,staying largely out of trouble.

But Frentzen had a bad day, stopping after 28 laps with a broken gearbox. The German had taken the decision to sacrifice his grid spot by using Michelin’s harder tyre, and was aiming to gain spots with a one-stop strategy, but that was not to be.

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The final The finisher was Fernando Alonso. youngster had a quiet day after the team opted to start with the older gearbox in the

car and ran around and around to finish 13th and two laps down.

Alex Yoong had much more to tell his gi’andchildren about his first GP. After doing a pretty good job in a fraught qualifying session, the Malaysian started steadily before he threw it off at the Lesmos on lap 16,then he repeated the dose with eight laps of the race left, the Minardi getting stuck, and that was all.

McLaren wasstarted just awful.

Their race badly when Hakldnen, deciding that carnage at the first chicane was a good thing to avoid, took the escape route through the bollards instead, getting back onto the track in 13th.

Thereafter, the Finn chased somewhat mutedly up the field, until the gearbox lost all its gears on lap 20 and he parked it.

David Coulthard didn’t even get

that far, the Mercedes-Benz engine expiring in a cloud of expensive smoke on lap seven.

“Overall, not a good weekend for Formula One and certainly not for us,” understated Hon Dennis after the race. “Just when we thought we had come to grips with our reliability, we suffered an engine failure and a drivetrain problem the causes of which we are still investigating. We have to do better in the futoe.”

Likewise, to get a car to theArrows finish,failed both Jos Verstappen and Enrique Bemoldi having engine failui’es. Both had made great starts, Jos emerging eighth on the opening lap, but thereafter he started to suffer brake problems and, when the fuel pressm-e dropped on lap 26, he parked it.

Bemoldi also charged early, and was in a battle with Vilieneuve, Hakkinen and Panis when a crankshaft sensor cried enough. teams Twelve filed out months of Monza ago,in the the knowledge that a marshal had lost his life after being struck by debris early in the race. This time, no such disasters have befallen the FI community, but the sense of sorrow was just as profound.

‘This weekend has been very dark, not only for what happened in the US but what happened to Zanardi yesterday,” said Ban-ichello at day’s end.

The terrible week was over- but it was good to see that, even in the face of adversity, life was going on.

Schuey for a day: Rubens Barrichello passed both Montoya and Ralf Schumacher and may have won but for a slow pit stop.

(Photo by MoraWBoth.'rt)

motorsport news

FORMULA ONE Q: Congratulations, Juan Pablo. Was it getting a little frustrating not achieving this first win?

JPM: Not really, no.

Considering it’s my first year, I wasn’t really expecting to win when I came in. I had a couple of opportunities where I could have won it, and I just said, "When the time is meant to come, it will come." I think it’s a great day for me. My father is here, it’s his birthday today, so it’s pretty good.

Q: It's an early birthday present for you,too?

JPM: Yes, it’s good. Exactly a year ago was my last win in CART, so that’s pretty good.

Q: What happened when Rubens overtook you?

JPM: I got a blister on a rear tyre, and I started sliding under braking. I made a mistake, and he just passed me. Afterwards it took me a couple of laps to get back in the groove, and I learned to really drive the car with that amount of oversteer. and actually at the end of the run I was fairly quick.

Then I think they went a bit too extreme with the front wing when I came in. We decided to take two holes out and it was a bit-too much, so for half of the next run I had tons of understeer everywhere. Then it got better and better. The speed was there when I needed to turn it on.

I was turning low 1:26s all the time, which was good enough.

When they told me Half was catching me I went down to 1:25s and my car was still competitive, so it was still really good.

Q: Was the reason why you locked up a couple of times and you went across the first chicane to do with that lack of wing?

JPM: Initially, when I came into the first stop, I left the pits and I thought it should be pretty good with new tyres and everything.

It should be fairly good and when I left, I had massive understeer everywhere and I thought I was going to be really slow.

Q: Rubens, do you think the two-stop strategy was right?

RB: I think to beat the Williams today it was definitely the right strategy. I think Ross Brawn was magic in thinking of that and giving us an opportunity to fight Q: Tell us about overtaking both Juan Pablo and Ralf.

RB: Juan Pablo had a problem with the rear tyres. He locked up when he saw that was coming on the inside. We just had a fair fight. and I went

through. Ralf was struggling with the rear tyres, too. I saw he was struggling on brakes into Turn 1 as well, and so I thought I would brake a little earlier so we could both get through. He wanted to go on the outside and couldn’t go through the chicane, so we both lost time, but it was okay.

Q: Ralf, after Rubens overtook you, you went across the top of the chicane. Did you then ease up and let him take the position?

RS: The position belonged to him anyway, and I had big problems at that moment. My rear tyres wouldn’t behave any more, so 1 defended to a point where I thought it was reasonable and that was it.

Q: What about the battle with your brother? He overtook you.

RS: It happens. That’s what we are here for. Sometimes he gets overtaken, and sometimes get overtaken. It was a fair fight; obviously he had a lighter car. I was one of the heaviest anyway in the

front, and from the beginning I had a very big oversteer, which then turned into blisters. I got used to the blisters and was able to drive at a reasonable pace.

Q: Rubens, has there been anything di^erent with the team this weekend; your treatment by the team?

RB: When we would go to a normal weekend, before Michael won the championship, you would go thinking that he would get the first treatment because he had the chance to win the championship. That’s the only thing that differs. We have equal treatment, and we are allowed to race each other, basically.

I had a weekend when I performed really well, one of my best weekends. I could go for it in qualifying, I could go for it in the race and the team have helped quite a good amount.

Scud< yFICIAL

PtKkto by Didi Kiynsmith

I fQualifying^

FTER spending a couple of years in mothballs,it .was as if the Clarion Sandown 500 had never been

Run away, run away! Waring, in helmet, is unaware of the flash fuel fire suffered by the winning car.

(Photo by James Smith)

POS DRIVERS TIME CAR 1:16.4012 1 Paul Stokell/Steven Johnson Wilkinson Lamborghini Diablo 1:17.0580 Autoart Ferrari 360 2 John Bowe/Tom Waring 1:17.0897 3 D'arcy Russell/Darren Palmer Poolrite Chrysler Viper ACR 1:17.5140 Tekno Porsche GT3 4 Steve Webb/Neal Bates 1:17.8781 5 Steve Beards/Craig Baird Network Appliances Ferrari 360 The Crossroads Carseldine Ferrari 360 1:17.3693 6 John Teulan/Paul Morris VIP Petfoods Porsche GT3 1:18.1885 7 Tony Quinn/Jim Richards 1:20.9445 8 Mike Downard/MarkZonneveld Superrint Porsche GT3 Cockatoo Creek Honda NSX Brabh a m 1:21.1292 9 Ian Palmer/Brett Peters 1:21.2490 Carter Chevrolet Corvette C5 10 Murray Carter/Kosi Kalaitzidis 1:22.6511 Ferntree Gully Holden HSV VX GTS 11 Peter Floyd/Cameron McConville 1:23.3963 Hughes SV Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VI 12 Bob Hughes/Rick Bates Altiris Subaru WRX Sti 1:24.5709 13 Wayne Boatwrighl/Scott Anderson 1:24.6784 14 Mark King/Rod Wilson Delphi Mitsubishi Lancer Evo V 15 Dennis Gilben/Trevor McGuinness Castran Gilbert Mitsubishi Lancer Evo V 1:24.6895 1:24.9488 16 TrevorHaines/Scott Jacob/Grant Kenny Team Yamaha Subaru WRX Sti 1:24.9829 17 Graham Alexander/John Woodberry Parts Plus Mitsubishi Lancer Evo V 1:25.2950 Poolrite Honda S2000 18 Wayne Park/Anton Mechtler 1:26.6657 Brock Mitsubishi Lancer Evo V 19 Michael Brock/Gary Young 1:26.6337 20 Daynom Templeman/Peter Phelan Robert Lane Honda S2000 1:27.5477 21 Drew MargetA/in Macaro Marget Engineering Nissa n 200SX 1:27.6473 Southern Rural Ford Falcon AU XR8 22 John MclIroy/BrettYoulden 1:27.7387 Scotts Transport Subaru WRX Sti 23 Clyde Lawrence/Grant Munday 1:27.8123 Fluff Nissan 200SX Spec-R 24 Greg Haysom/Craig Dean 1:27.8587 Parts Plus Ford Falcon AU XR8 25 KentYoulden/BrettYoulden 1:28.0960 26 John Falk/Neil McFadyen/Ken Lusty JNB Subaru WRX Sti 1:28.2808 27 Ross Palmer/David Wood Bud Ford Mustang 1:28.5702 28 Len Cave/Bob Wright APS Honda Integra Type-R 1:28.6776 29 Colin Osborne/Ric Shaw Premier Panel Beating Toyota MR2 1:29.7323 30 Alan Holgersson/J.Mantello/LWalmsiey Sandhurst Go^^f Estate Toyota Camry 1:29.9858 Go Karts Go BMW 3231 31 Wayne Russell/Steve Cramp 1:30.0051 32 Christian D'Agostin/David Lawson Mecthler Toyota MR2 1:30.4802 33 Richard Winston/Robert Coutts Wincross Holden VT SS V8 1:33.9686 34 Phil & Megan Kirkham/Matt Lehmann MAZ Mazda MX5 No Time 35 Peter Boylan/Trevor Sheumack Quirk's BMW M3 No Time 36 Peter Fitzgerald/Geoff Morgan Falken Porsche GT3 Budwelser Top Gun Challenao 1:18.3006 6. Paul Stokell 1:16.9760 1. Jim Richards 1:20.9100 7. Mike Downard 1:17.3195 2. John Bowe 1:22.3584 8. Ian Palmer 1:17.9148 3. Paul Morris 1:23.2543 1:18.0764 4. Neal Bates 9. Murray Carter 1:25.7557 1:18.1601 10. D'arcy Russell 5. Craig Baird 66

away.

The cars - and a lot of the drivers - might have been a bit different, but the atmosphere was abuzz. The significance of the Sandown 500 in Australian motor racing history was pushed to the forefront throughout the weekend by the organisers, and just in case anyone forgot, the winning car from the inaugural event in 1964 was parked on the concourse.

And from the outset, it looked like we were in for a cracker. The 500 has had its fair share of dramatic moments over the years, and this year was no different.

With one highly-fancied entrant starting from the rear of the field, a number of others falling by the wayside during the race, and a Ferrari with one driver steering it for the first time and another

The Lamborghini Diablo of Paul Stokell and Steven Johnson certainly had the speed but its reliability would be tested, particularly after some brake problems in the sprint race on Saturday.

ATom packed grandstand watched Waring start his Prancing Horse Ferrari 360 from the front row alongside pole-sitter Jim Richards in the VIP Petfoods Porsche, and quickly fall into Richo’s mirrors as the GT3 scorched away.

Shortly after, the pm-suing Paul Stokell nosed past the Porsche at Shell Mastercard corner for the

MteuiMiH

making his Australian racing debut going on to take the win despite flaring up with a refuelling fire along the way for good measure - the 35th Sandown 500 produced a race that was hard fought to the 161st lap.

In fact, the Ferraris were by no means the favourites. While there were three of them in the field, overheating problems may have been an Achilles Heel, as well as the fact that Porsche, and in particular many of its drivers, were experienced with their machines, albeit older models, in proddie endurance races such as the Bathm-st 12-Hour.

motorsport news

PROCAR

3ria Bowe-wow The Sandown 500 returned after a two-year absence and it went into the books as the third win for John Bowe. The CAT VSgun paired with Hong Kong-based Pom Tom Waring to take the win for Ferrari and Prancing Horse Racing. MARK GLENDENNING and AARON NOONAN report

Pushing on: Neal Bates did the chasing late in the race, above, but had to settle for second place behind Waring/Bowe, below. (Photo by Dirk Klynsmith) lead in the Lamborghini with which he had set provisional pole on Saturday.

First indications about how different teams were approaching the compulsory four pitstops came early, when Steve Beards pitted his Prancing Horse Ferrari on lap five, followed by the similar car of John Teulan.

Mindful of the likelihood of a Safety Car period later in the

afternoon (which, unbelievably, never eventuated), Team Lamborghini showed their hand three laps when Stokell pitted. handing the lead back to Richards.

The Diablo slotted back into the field behind Steve Webb's fourthplaced Tekno Autosports Porsche GTS. Then the mice got at the machinery. D’Arcy Russell’s Viper, which had blasted from 10th on

Broken expensive bits: The Lambo had been in a dominating position (Photo by James Smith) when it failed. the grid (thanks to a spin in the Top Gun Shootout) to third, was severely delayed by a broken axle, while Teulan’s car shut down when the Faz’s computer said it was getting too hot. Once the gizmo let the 360 re-fire, Teulan and Paul Morris ploughed on to take fom'th overall.

Lap 32 saw the first of the driver changes from the sharp end of the field when race leader Richards drove the Porsche into the pits, 28 September 2001

and Tony Quinn drove it out. The Diablo was in for its second stop soon after, and after taking on fuel, tyres, and Steve Johnson. It rejoined in second behind Craig Baird, who had taken over fi-om Pom Beards and was pushing on.

And,but for a brief(and. thankfully, hamless)refuelling fire while the Wai'ing/Bowe Ferrari was pitting, that set the scene for a continued on page 68 SI

Clarion Sandov>m 500

rZENJO

. 1

Falken from the back: Fitzgerald and Morgan, above, fought their way to the podium after more gearbox prob lems than you could poke a stick at, while Paul Morris, left, impressed in the #54 Ferrari. The traffic, below, was very behaved, a statement backed up by the fact that there were no Safety Cars.

(Photos by Dirk Klynsmith and Peter Bury) “The car was very strong and they guys did a great job, but obviously we were not quite there,” said Bates.

“It’s absolutely gi’eat to win a race, I don’t win them that often anymore, and to win this one is special to me,” Bowe grinned.

“I just drove the car and it did not miss a beat. It was a pleasure to drive.”

Waring was equally pleased.

“It was a teriffic opportunity to come and race a Prancing Horse, and with a legend like John Bowe... I'm very delighted.”

A superb effort from Fitzy and Geoff Morgan in the neutered Porsche was rewarded with the final podium spot, having started from the back of the field after gearbox dramas in the Nations Cup race on the Saturday meant they missed qualifying.

Teulan/Morris ploughed on for fourth ahead of Mike Downard and Mark Zonneveld in the fonner’s GT3.

continued from page 67 quiet period among the frontrunners.

Baird held a large lead over Stokell, who held an even larger gap over Quinn, who had a similarly comfortable cushion between himself and fourth place, which was claimed by the Falken 'lyres Porsche of Peter Fitzgerald after a squabble with Webb.

As various cars intermittently darted in and out of the pits, Fitzgerald’s Porsche began to lose fifth and sixth gears. Handicapped, but by no means sidelined, the Porsche pressed on.

“I contemplated pulling out, then I thought‘maybe I'll sit on fourth on the rev limiter’,” he later explained.

“Anything can happen in a long distance race.”

As if to illustrate his point, the first real spanner was thro\vn into the works a short while later.

Johnson had been aware that the Diablo was not behaving as it should have been for a while, and suspected that a tyre may have been leaking.

But while braking for Easternats Corner, a ball joint in the front left suspension failed, leaving the Larabo to limp back to the pits and out of the race.

“That's only a $160 part - the Lamborghini equivalent of a 20 cent part in a Commodore,” Stokell mourned.

After the final round of stops, Bowe was visibly closing on the leading Porsche of Neal Bates(who had taken the wheel from Webb), and after struggling with some 68

lapped traffic, he finally took the lead with a move down the inside of the final corner, and immediately started to pull away.

Another curveball came a few laps down the road when Richards pulled the VIP Porsche off the road on the back straight after suffering a broken gear lever, while Baird was out earlier with a broken diff.

Up at the front, Bowe made his final stop on lap 139. He stayed on the same set of Pirellis, that enabled him to get out in front of Bates, having been up by 25s when he pitted. He rejoined with his lead intact and, as an added bonus.

three lapped cai's between himself and the pursuing Porsche.

Both cars had completed their programme of stops, and with 22 laps left to run, the race to the flag was on.

Bates never managed to get quite close enough to Bowe to have a serious stab at the lead, but it was not for - John Bowe lack of trying.

With errant bodywork flailing wildly behind, Bates threw the Porsche all over the track in his efforts to make up the final bit of gi-ound. It provided a p-eat spectacle for the fans lining the fences, but Bowe had the situation well under control and took the flag by 2.5 seconds.

'1 don't Win them that Often anymore,and to win this one is special to me"

Ihe race for Poolrite GT Performance honours was shaken up before the cars had even finished leaving the grid, when the Delphi/King Springs Evo V of Mark King failed to make it away from the startline.

The early part of the race was dominated by the HSV VX GTS pairing of Peter Floyd and Cameron McConville. Having pace is one thing, but being able to carry it for a race distance is another thing altogether. Only a lap after Floyd took over fi'om the Lansvale driver, the spookily quick Commodore was forced into retirement by a broken diff.

This handed the initiative to Bob Hughes and Rick Bates in the Lancer Turbo EVO VI, who drove brilliantly to take a class win and sixth overall. A gi'eat effort by Wayne Boatwright and Scott Anderson in the new Altiris Software Suburu WRX Sti was rewarded with second in Class A and seventh overall, ahead of Formula 3 frontrunner Daynom Templeman and Peter Phelan in a Honda S2000. moiorsport news

.SJi.

r?_:

PROCAR Clarion Sandown 500

Dread the red: Baird and Beards made for a nightmare for the commentators ...

The much-fancied Bud Mustang Cobra piloted by Ross Palmer and David Wood was flagged out of the race at the halfway mark with an oil leak, after a controversial leadup to the race had seen threats to withdraw the car in light of parity changes made by PROCAR. Len andSports Bob Wright ruled theCave Hippies Touring

roost in their APS Integra Type-R, finishing at the top of Class B and 13th overall.

Wayne Russell and Steven Cramp followed them home for second in their BMW 323, ahead of the Toyota MR2 of Colin Osborne and Rick Shaw.

The Poolrite V8 Touring men of the moment were GT Production series leader Scott Leadsman with

(Photo by Difit Klynsmilh)

Warren Luff, who steered Loadsman's SS Commodore to finish a fantastic ninth overall.

Winton winner John Mcllroy took second in the XR8 Falcon that he shared with Brett Youlden, and,just to make the podium shot a nice one for the family album, more Youldens Kent and Luke - took third in another XR8.

T61laps Pos Driver Race lime F/lap 1 Bowe/Waring 3:39:05.2739 1:18.24 2 Webb/N.Bates 3:39:08.3363 1:18.45 3 Rtzgerald/Morgan 159 laps 1:19.90 4 Teulan/Morris 156 laps 1:18.50 5 Downard/Zonneueld 156 laps 1:19.86 6 Hughes/R.Bates 150 laps 1:24.74 7 BoatwrighVAnderson 149 laps 1:24.75 8 Templeman/Phelan 146 laps 1:27.15 9 Loadsman/Luff 144 laps 1:28.25 10 BrockA'oung 143 laps 1:26.60 11 MclIroy/B.Youlden 143 laps 1:28.78 12 Haysom/Dean 142 laps 1:28.24 13 Cave/Wright 142 laps 1:30.05 14 Russell/Cramp 141 laps 1:31.07 15 K.Youlden/LYoulden 141 laps 1:28.94 16 Osborne/Shaw 141 laps 1:30.27 17 Gilbert/McGuinness 138 laps 1:25.24 18 Kirkhan/Lebmann 134 laps 1:34.64 19 Russell/Palmer 123 laps 1:17.70 NC Winstcn/Coutts 119 laps 1:29.92 NC D'Agostin/Lawson 118 laps 1:31.50 NC Alexander/Woodberry 100 laps 1:24.66 NC Falk/Lusty/McFadyen 87 laps 1:28.17 DNF Quinn/Richards 126 laps 1:18.04 DNF Beards/Baird 108 laps 1:18.23 DNF Stokell/Johnson 89 laps 1:18.19 DNF Palmer/Wood 66 laps 1:25.12 DNF Flaines/Jacob/Kenny 57 laps 1:25.35 DNF Marget/Macaro 44 laps 1:28.59 DNF Floyd/McConville 43 laps 1:23.48 DNF Carter/Kalaitzidis 38 laps 1:22.49 DNF Holgersson/Mantello 27 laps 1:31.68 DNF Lawrence/Munday 15 laps 1:28.83 DNF Shephard/Briffa 14 laps 1:32.42 DNF Park/Mecbtler 12 laps 1:27.79 DNF Palmer/Peters 7 laps 1:22.06 DNF King/Wilson Olaps No Time DNS Boylan/Sheumack 0 laps No Time

John BowOf Tom Waring and the PrancingJHprs^ Team vletoiyiit the 2001 Sandoww 500

PO Box 309 Sunshine VIC 3Q20 Ph 03 9311 0588 Fax 03 9311 3722 Web http://www.melfab.com.au Emailmelfab@emis.com.au 28 September 2001

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by AARON NOONAN WHEN the people at Chrysler decided to build the VIO Viper, they obviously had a decent sized circuit on which to test it.

But if they didn’t, then you’d gladly offer them Sandown, because it proved to be Viper territory in the double-points 20lap race in the megamantis.com Australian Nations Cup Championship.

Geoff Morgan’s monster.com.au machine was simply unstoppable, taking pole position and never being headed over the distance to take the win, clear of Mark Noske’s Ferrari 360 and defending champion Jim Richards’s Porsche GTS. “It’s been a real long haul,” said Morgan, a former multiple Porsche Cup champ.

“Sandown’s a great circuit for the Viper but two laps more and I think Mark would have got me. I had to start covering the corners.”

While Morgan’s Viper hasn’t been in title contention all year, the double-points allowed Richards to extend his lead in the title, particularly with the Lamborghini Diablo of Paul Stokell suffering a blown tyre due to severe brake lock-ups.

Richards’s lead is now 130 points over Stokell. “(The result) was better than what we probably expected,” said Richards, the poise of the Porsche still a match for the brute power of the Viper and Lamborghini, even at such a horsepower track as Sandown.

Wlonstering the opposition on the long straights of Sandown: Geoff Morgan, above, added a win to his Eastern Creek success. unstoppable in the 20-lapper. Jim Richards, left, gave us an up-close view of his office.

(Photos by Chris Carter and James Smith)

Fellow Porsche pilot Peter Fitzgerald was forced to hmp to the line after he lost the clutch and couldn’t get a gear’.

Having found a gear - albeit second -the Falken cai- managed to get home eighth with some points, leaving Fitz/s crew with a late night to get it ready for the next day’s Sandown 500.

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Points: Richards 704, Stokell 574, Fitzgerald 566, Morgan 537, Quinn 459, Russell 420.

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Special Holden heavyweight

Aitken takes GT Performance shootout

70

Neal Bates (in Steve Webb’s GT3), Tony Quinn, John Teulan and Sam Newman finished ahead of Fitzgerald.

With the Nations Cup race his only duties for the weekend, Noske fought his way clear of Richards at mid-race and moved up when Stokell suffered his problems.

While he closed on the Viper, his

Ferrari didn’t have enough to combat the massive VIO power of the ‘yank-tank’.

T got past Richo and Stokell ran out of brakes and I prayed like hell that the Viper would do the same,” said Noske, who spent the rest of the weekend in bed with the flu.

‘After five laps the car got better and better but the rears were going away in the last five laps so I had to keep pressing on.”

At least there was only one Viper to contend with, after D’Arcy Russell’s version, which was to start on the front row, was put out with a failed oil seal.

JUST as the long straights suited the big engined Chrysler Viper, the 5.7-litre HSV was in its element at Sandown in the Century Batteries Australian GT-Performance Championship.

Defending Bathurst GT-P champ Ed Aitken, above left, ended up the winner at the end of the 18-lapper, having swapped the lead all race distance with the similar car of Phil Polites and the Mitsubishi Lancer of Graham Alexander.

The Bud Ford Mustang of John Bowe was a non-starter, while title leader Brett Peters was a DNF after four laps, though managed to hold onto his title lead.

- AARON NOONAN motorsport news

Congratulations to Prancing Horse Racing, John Bowe and Tom Waring on their win in the 2001 Clarion Sandown 500

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Townsville Dragway splits from ANDRA THE controlling forces behind Townsville Dragway have elected to withdraw from all ANDRAsanctioned racing, effective immediateiy.

Reiations between the facility and the national sanctioning body have been rocky for some time and reached a head when ANDRA reacted to the non-payment of sanctioning fees, on top of other debts, by ailocating a 2000 ADRS round to Palmyra Dragway.

There has also been a long standing disagreement over the concrete safety barriers that have been instalied at Townsviiie. The construction method utilised by the facility has proved ineffective, with a number of accidents resuiting in large chunks of concrete being torn out of the barrier.

In addition to issues relating to the barriers, a letter from the facilty to local racers explained the decision thus: "With the continually rising costs of racing and the predicted increases in the ANDRA sanction and licensing fees tipped to come into effect in October, none of us can afford to continue under this system. We pay the same amount as the major tracks for the same permit level. We do not have the competitors or the population to draw on."

Townsviiie Dragway has declared its intention to continue with its own programme of racing in the coming season. n NHRA Top Fuel driver Bobby Baldwin, below, passed away last Sunday after suffering a suspected brain aneurism. He was aged 53.

'Big Go'shelved calendar shake

by MARK GLENDENNING

THE 2001/2002 ANDRA championship calendar has heen dramatically reduced following the shock suspension of all championship events at Calder Park and AIR. The announcement sees the first fom- of the scheduled championship meetings erased from the calendar, with the first Group One round now earmarked for Quit Motorplex (Top Doorslammer) on December 1.

A total of seven meetings are now redundant,including the Victorian Championships, the Springnationals, and the Nationals.

“We don’t want championship events with no depth,” explained ANDRA CEO Tony Thornton.

“The Nationals shouldn’t be run just for the sake of it. If we can’t have the event run to an appropriate standard, then perhaps it’s better to shelve it in the short-term.”

Coming only a couple of weeks after Calder was dropped from the 2002 V8 Supercar schedule, ANDRA’s decision to withdraw the championship events from the Victorian and South Australian circuits rides on the coat-tails of the recent announcement by the Bob Jane-owned facilities of the

intention to dramatically i-educe prizemoney payouts.

ANDRA explained their position in a recent press release, which read in part: “From a financial viewpoint no competitor relies totally on prizemoney to fund racing activities ... But the financial impact of the decision on racers may not be the major issue.

Prizemoney has been part of competition drag racing events for over two decades.

“On its own,that may not be justification for continuing the practice, but cash prizes are seen as a tangible reward for effort and achievement, and a direct demonstration that the promoter is directly re-investing in the product.”

The statement goes on to say that other major tracks in Australia have not signalled any intention to remove prizemoney from lower categories.

The decision, which will not effect open or off-street meetings, is the latest chapter in what has been an increasingly turbulent saga.

Word of Calder/AIR’s plans to restrict prizemoney payouts to first and second placegetters in Group One categories, and to eliminate it altogether for Groups Two and Three, first began to filter out

when the two tracks began reviewing their prizemoney structures in July.

When confirmed a few weeks later, the news was met with a hostile reception by much of the drag community. A mail-out to racers from Calder, however, insists that prize money is not the main issue, pointing instead to flaws in the current insm’ance arrangements that exposes both promoters and ANDRA to the risk of litigation in the event of an accident.

“I understand the predicament that the tracks are in, and it’s a challenge for all the tracks. But we had to consider the sport,” Thornton concluded.

Calder Park representatives could not be reached for comment.

The revised calendar now starts at Quit Motorplex on December 1(Top Doorslammer),before moving onto the Summer Championships at Willowbank on Jan 19 (Ibp Fuel,Ibp Doorslammer,Tbp Alcohol,Ibp Bike, Pro Stock,Pro Stock Bike),the Westemationals on Mar 2-3 at Quit Motorplex(Top Doorslammer,Ibp Bike),the Tin Top Titles at Willowbank on Mar 29-30 Cibp Doorslammer,Pro Stock),a Top Fuel round at Quit Motorplex on April 6, and the Wintemationals at Willowbank on June 7-9(Top Fuel, Top Doorslammer,Top Alcohol,Top Bike,Pro Stock,Pro Stock Bike).

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Earlier that weekend, NHRA Pro Stock star Jim Yates was rushed to hospital when he began experiencing chest pains shortly after completing his third pass. Yates is reported to be resting comfortably. n Former NHRA Top Fuel champ Darrell Gwynn has sold the rights to his life story.

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motorsport news

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Group Ones unite

DURING a recent meeting in Brisbane, ' representatives of Group One owners and drivers elected to establish a special body to help provide a united front with a view to securing the sport's future.

The Group One Owners and Drivers body will represent all Group One categories in dealings with track owners and commercial organisations.

A steering committee, comprising Steve Read (Top Fuel), Tony Wedlock (Pro Stock), Trevor Birrell(Pro Stock Bike), Victor Bray(Top Doorslammer), Gary

Phillips(Top Alcohol), Brett Stevens(Top Bike), Rod Bailey(Funny Car), and Steve Bettes(chairman), was elected to create a range of initiatives geared toward the management of Australian Group One racing, and a second meeting has been scheduled for 13 October. All Group One owners and drivers are invited to attend.

The effect of newly-established body upon the recent DRA Top Doorslammer proposal remains uncertain.

- MARK GLENDENNING

Keystones rescheduled

THE terrorist attacks on the Pentagon in Washington DC and IMew York's World Trade Centre on September 11 prompted the NHRA to reschedule the Keystone Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway, Reading, originally slated for September 13-16, to October 4-7.

Among the reasons for the postponement was the uncertainty of air travel. Many professional teams are located on the West Coast, and would have found it difficult to get across to Pennsylvania to compete. ●-"The decision was met with .whole-hearted support from the NHRA fraternity.

"It was the right thing to do", said 10-time NHRA Winston Funny Car Champion John Force.

Whatever problems it

causes for us is nothing compared to what those people in New York and Washington are going through who lost family and friends. I don't think anyone would have wanted to race this week."

Del Worsham, owner/driver of the Checker-Schuck's-Kragen Pontiac Funny Car, concurred; "We completely support the NHRA in its decision to put racing aside this weekend while we deal with the initial stages of this national emergency.

"All of us were shocked and stunned by what we watched on Tuesday. We'have,.team members and their families in the New York and Washington metro areas, some of whom spend time in lower Manhattan and in the District of Columbia on a regular basis.

"Though our extended family survived, our hearts go out to

EARL’S

the enormous amount of people who have lost so much and so many loved ones.

"I would also imagine that very soon it will become our responsibility to get back out there, to show that our way of life cannot be halted.

"Racing cars very fast in a straight line may seem irrelevant today, but the truth is Americans are passionate about sports and about the way we live, and as a nation we are indignant that anyone would think we they could take away our freedom and our passions."

It is only the second time that a NHRA event has been postponed for reasons other than the weather. The Phoenix event was rescheduled in 1991 due to problems with the track surface.

- MARK GLENDENNING

Drag briefs The ever-changing look of Jim Epier's NHRA Funny Car has taken on yet another new paint scheme, following a two race deal with fishing and outdoor equipment supplier Bass Pro Shops.

The arrangement saw the Etchells Racing Camaro Z28 painted up to resemble a large bass, complete with scales along the side, and it debuted at Memphis last weekend. n The IHRA will add a second Canadian race to the 2002 calendar.

Joining the Mopar Performance Parts Canadian Nationals at Grand Bend, Ontario, will be a race at Toronto Motorsports Park.

Track owner Uli Bieri has announced that the former Cayuga Dragway Park will undergo an extensive upgrades in anticipation of the event.

"With a second Canadian national event at Toronto Motorsports Park, IHRA continues our commitment to become Canada's premier drag racing sanctioning body and gives IHRA 12 national events," stated IHRA President Bill Bader.

■ The NHRA \«ill expand its Pro Mod exhibition schedule in 2002 from five to eight events.

The additional events will be run at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park in New Jersey, the National Trail Raceway in Ohio, and Memphis Motorsports Park.

■ Measures taken by the NHRA at Memphis to acknowledge the recent tragedies included red, white and blue bunting, American flag decals for the race oars, and the donation of 50 pecent of souvenier sales revenue to an appropriate charity.

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Hanging with Mr Kaiitta IT'S pretty easy, when and you're in the swing of things concentrating so hard on the racing program,to forget about Australia for a little while and not get homesick. I reckon that's easy to understand when you're living your dream...

But I can't tell you how honnesick we all felt over the last couple of weeks when the tragedies in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania were playing out.

In such a sad time, racing was the last thing any of us with the K&N Filters/Cowin Family Racing team wanted to think about our minds were 12,000km away, back with our families and friends in beautiful, sunny, friendly Australia. Flome ...

But, we came to America to race against the world's best and, if you want to be a professional, after some reflection on the tragedies, it's back to racing.

Out of respect, the NFIRA quickly cancelled the Keystone Nationals, which were to be run the week before last in

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Pennsylvania at Reading.

As soon as we heard the news that the meeting was rescheduled, we turned around the transporter and started headed back to Connie Kalitta's workshop in Ypsilanti, Michigan, where we'd been basing ourselves over the last month.

Connie Kaiitta is an absolute legend of drag racing and to be able to hang out at his shop with his team is just brilliant.

He is an incredible bloke, a

' 1

bloke who started out as a professional drag racer in the '60s and flew planes for a hobby.

Fie then turned flying into his business and has continued drag racing for a hobby to this day!

Connie won plenty of races himself, and he's also tuned Shirley Muldowney to a Winston title and fielded cars for both himself and his son, Scott, who won the NFIRA Top Fuel Championship in 1994 and '95.

Nowdays, he runs a pretty tough car for his nephew, Doug, and they're still winning races.

Of course, with the tragedies dominating the news, one of the many legendary stories about Connie was quick to surface amongst drag racers ...

Back in the early 90s (during the Gulf War, Connie's air freight company flew more missions to the Middle East than anyone bar the US Air Force, and he received a commendation from President Bush), some crazy guy thought he'd hijack one of Connie's 747s (he has got a few, along with tons of other jets) before it left the airport terminal ...

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Connie, having made his earlier living in the once-rough and tumble world of 'run what ya brung and hope ya brung enough' professional drag racing, heard what was happening, stormed down the landing and onto the plane and then proceeded to knock the guy clean out with one punch!

It might seem far-fetched, but it's a true story.

Thankfully, he's been good to us and made us feel at home, which is hard considering it is such a terribly sad time over here.

Anyway, it's back to headdown, throttle-down racing.

Cheers, Andrew.

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IN an American flag-draped, Memphis Motorsports Park Winners Circle, Top Fuel winner Kenny Bernstein and Pro Stock Truck victor Mike Coughlin were joined hy first time winners Gary Densham and George Marnell as the four claimed professional category wins at the 14th annual AutoZone Nationals.

The Funny Car win by Densham was a popular one, as the former schoolteacher finally emerged victorious in his 243rd event and 30 years of Funny Car racing, stopping his boss, John Force 5.07/290 to 5.11/283 in a thrilling, tyre-hazing side-by-side final round.

“If I would have known this was so much fun, I would have done it sooner,” said Densham, who donated his winner’s cheque to the American Red Cross.

“John told me before the final that we would go up there and race the best we could, no games, and may the best car ■win. Today, the best car was mine and I couldn't be happier. Maybe he’ll quit racing and I’ll -win 96 more and catch him.”

Densham’s Jimmy Prock-tuned Mac Tools Mustang rattled off a string of 4.9s passes in round wins over Chuck Etchells, Indy winner Whit Bazemore and Ron Capps to for a chance to face his boss in the final and take the event title.

Force, the low qualifier at 4.82/302, was also stringing together 4.9s passes in eliminations while reaching his 150th career final round, stopping Jim Epler, Tommy Johnson Jr, and

28 September 2001

07

Del Worsham along the way.

Bernstein was able to cut Larry Dixon’s point lead down to 27 in taking his sixth win of the year, stopping the point leader in the final round, 4.68/308 to 4.75/304.

“We’re trying to gain as much ground as we can and that was a huge 40-point swing in the finals,” said Bernstein.

‘You are looking at two gi'eat race teams with two gi'eat crew chiefs that aren’t making any mistakes. It’s like a heavyweight title fight. One team throws a punch and the other team has to take it and answer back. That’s what we did all day today.”

Bernstein qualified third at 4.60/318 and carded 4.62/315, 4.62/314 and 4.69/311 passes to stop Jim Cavalieri, Darrell Russell and Doug Kalitta.

Dixon, the low qualifier at 4.58/309 stopped Don Sosenka, Tony Schumacher and Mike Dunn to advance into his eighth final round of the season.

Marnell became the 12th different winner in Pro Stock this season with his final round conquest of Mark Pawuk and his Summit Pontiac. As was the case throughout the day, Marnell used a superior reaction time to take a holeshot, final round victoiy, 6.97/198 to 6.95/198, winning by a scant .008 seconds.

“I could not be happier,” said Marnell, who also donated his winnings to the Red Cross.

“This is as close to euphoria as is humanly possible.”

Marnell’s dri-ving was brilliant on Sunday, as the Las Vegas driver took a holeshot win over Robert

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Patrick in round one, left on Mark Osborne in the second and overcame a .409 to .422 starting line advantage by Bruce Allen in the semis, taking a 6.93 to 6.96 ■win to send him into his first-ever final round.

Pawuk advanced into his fourth final round of the year, taking round wins over Mike Edwards, Larry Morgan and Jeg Coughlin.

Jim Yates low qualified in his Split Fire/Peak Pontiac at 6.883, but was admitted to a Memphis hospital on Saturday following qualifying after suffering from chest pains. Yates was kept in the hospital and was undergoing tests at the time of writing.

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Rickie Smith was to be Yates’s first round opponent and took the round one single when Yates was withdrawn from competition.

Mike Coughlin sucessfully defended his 2000 Memphis Pro Stock Ti-uck title in taking his second straight victory on the tour with a 7.44/181 to 7.44/182 win over point leader, Bob Panella.

Coughlin’s fifth career win, has moved him all the way up to seventh in the standings.

Coughlin’s Jeg’s-backed Chevy S-10 low qualified at 7.42/181 and produced steady 7.4 second laps to defeat Jerry Haas, Randy Daniels and Todd Patterson.

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ICHARD Bm-ns has outlasted the field to take he Rally New Zealand after a tense battle with Colin McRae. The two Brits staged their own private war over the final two days of the event, Burns leading into the final stanza while McRae chased from behind in his Ford Focus. But the Scot spun on the penultimate stage of the event, a stalled engine costing him 35s and leaving the Subaru driver with an insurmountable lead over the final stage.

Once again, the bane of World Championship Rallying - car position - blighted the event, with i’ivers playing cat and mouse as they jockeyed.for favourable road position on the gravel surface.

Burns had a quiet first day before mounting a Day 2 attack, while McRae was counting on being able to stay close enough to win from behind.

Then McRae had a battle for second with Carlos Sainz, but the Spaniard spun on the final stage and lost two places before Marcus Gronholm was given a 10s time penalty for jumping the start of the 76

final section.

Bums’s first win of the year keeps him in contact for the title, while McRae heads to the next event in Sanremo tied for the championship lead with Tommi Makinen, who was steady but unspectacular in New Zealand.

Cody Crocker starred in Group N,taking the fight to Manfred Stohl before a spectacular rollover at the end of Day 2 destroyed his Subaru.

= ® 9.

Day 1

The biggest surprises in the early going was the speed of the Hyundais. With Makinen and McRae running 1-2 on the road, both Kenneth Eriksson and Alistair McRae took the fight to Gronholm, while Burns was hovering at the blunt end of the Top 10, with Possum Bourne close behind him.

Gronholm led for Peugeot and, by the time the cars were on the day-ending SS6, he looked in control. But then the Peugeot Sport team, who were monitoring the positions of Ford’s McRae and Sainz, got their sums wrong. They issued the wrong times to their

(hivers and, as a result, Gronholm found himself shuffled back to second, whereas they would have preferred to be fui’ther back to get clean roads for Day 2.

“Our people got the Ford times veiy late,” said Peugeot team director Jean-Pierre Nicolas. “It all happened too quickly. For Marcus it was a minute out. It was our fault.”

That allowed Eriksson to take the lead, a WRC first for the marque, pleasing the Swede no end;

“I feel very good; we’re making history here,” he griimed.‘T wUl try to keep a hold of the lead for the team.”

Sainz and McRae followed in their Focuses from Fetter Solberg, the impressive Freddy Loix, Francois Delecom'and Burns, while Bourne was 10th, under a minute from the leaders.

Crocker was in fine form in Group N,finishing the day 18s clear of Manfred Stohl’s Mitsubishi, underlining again his talent on the world stage. motorsport news

WORLD RALLY twice, Bums was gambling on keeping any early losses to a minimum before the cars faced the final three ‘swept’stages.

“There is a lot of gravel on the first two,” he said. “But then it’s not so bad later on.”

Rovanpera was in thii'd from Sainz, while Gronholm was fifth from Didier Auriol and Makinen.

Days

1

On top Down Under: Richard Burns waited untii the 10th round of the 2001 WRC to take his first win, and oniy seaied the victory in the finai two stages of the event when Coiin McRae, above, spun and iost 30s.

Petter Soiberg, below left, and Marcus Gronholm, below, split all Day 3 fastest times between them.

(Photo by Jon Thomson)

1 Burns/Reid 2 McRae/Grist 3 Rovanpera/Peitilainen 4 Sainz/Moya 5 Gronholm/Rautlainen 6 Auriol/Giraudet 7 Solberg/Mills 8 Makinen/Mannisenmaki

Subaru Impreza WRC Ford Focus WRC Paugeot206 WRC Ford Focus RS WRC Peugeot 206 WRC Ford Focus WRC Subaru Impreza WRC Mitsubishi Lancer Evo

3:47:28.0 3:48:12.0 3:48:18.1 3:48:20.2 3:48:23.8 3:48:39.3 3:49:43.8 3:49:49.9

Drivers' points: Makinen and McRae 40, Burns 31. Sainz 30. Rovanpera 27, Gronholm 16, Deiecour 14, Auriol 11. Loix and Solberg 9.

Manufacturers' points: Ford 76, Mitsubishi 65, Subaru 46, Peugeot 44, Skoda 15, Hyundai 10.

WRC Round 10 Rally New Zealaad

Day 2

Crocker’s lead lasted only a stage, Stohl taking over on SS7, but worse was to come at the end of the day for the Aussie.

Three kilometres from the end of the final stage ofthe day, his Subam plunged off the road, rolled six times and into retirement. Codiiver Greg Foletta suffered a broken finger, while Crocker was shaken but admitted to hospital overnight for obseiwation.

The opening stage was the longest of the event at 59km and, with it, Eriksson’s lead evaporated.

Ham Rovanpera and Burns, who had started ninth, were flying, hurtling through the field, which was amazing as Rovanpera had a puncture 600m into the stage and relied on the mousse tyres to get him home fastest. Meanwhile, Deiecour had a roll and Loix was struggling on too-soft rubber.

On the next stage. Burns took the lead, adding SS4 to his tally, while the other big mover was Colin McRae, who closed to within 20s of the Subaru in third before taking second before the end of the day.

With Day 3 using three stages 28 September 2001

a

Ideally placed, Gronholm surged through the field on SS19, while the other man making ground was Solberg, the two trading fastest times during all six final day stages as Bums and McRae settled down to fight out the event.

Colin gained 4s on SS19 then another 2s on SS20 but, with Bm-ns keeping the loss down to a single second on SS21, and with the ‘swept’stages waiting, it was looking like Burns’s gamble had paid off. He was still 15s clear and holding on.

McRae is a realist and settled for second -then came the spin.

“When we spun, I wasn’t pushing anymore,” claimed McRae.“We had already decided there was no way we could have done it.”

While Solberg and Gronholm went 1-2 on the stage Bums cruised in 7s back, now with a huge lead.

But McRae was under threat for second. Sainz was only 2.8s back, but he too spun in an effort to steal the spot, losing valuable time and, it seemed,two spots to Gronholm and Rovanpera. But the Peugeot was deemed to have left the start of the final stage early and a 10s penalty ensued, allowing Carlos to take fomdh behind Rovanpera, while Auriol was sixth from Solberg and Makinen.

So, Bums took his first win of 2001-by 44.6s.

‘Tt’s nice to beat Colin - verynice,” he said. “He’s been trying to wind me up aU morning. This shows that he should try to won-y about himself more often. It goes to show that we couldn’t have started this morning with any less of a gap.”

The chase for the WRC title now heads for the tarmac of Sanremo on October 5-7.

Will Burns join Peugeot?

RUMOURS continue to circulate that Richard Burns may join Peugeot for 2002.

Apparently, many millions of dollars have been offered to lure the ginger-headed flyer to the French operation, which needs an all-rounder to fill the gap which will come when Didier Auriol almost certainly leaves at the end of the year.

Auriol makes no secret of the fact that the chemistry has gone from the relationship with the Peugeot team and team director Corado Provera.

Burns, right, would add plenty of weight to the Peugeot 'Superteam' and give them the firepower needed to score strongly at every round.

-JON THOMSON

n

Rally News The member for Tuupovaara -

1 .a Hi

%

I

THERE was a time in the early 1970s when signs in the forests around the rally world proclaimed ‘Ari is God’but now the legendary Finnish world champion Ari Vatanen is on his way, having been elected as a member of the European Parliament.

Vatanen took up his new role as a politician on September 15 but despite being a politician now,is still keen on keeping his rally

skills up.

Vatanen drove a course car on the latest round of the Finnish Rally Championship just a few days before he headed to Brussels.

But to ensure the political flavour, his co-driver was Finland's Minister of Home Affairs, Mr Ville Itala.

-JON THOMSON

slammed 'Its ridiculous/ says Rally NZ winner

by JON THOMSON

IT was an awesome moment in the main Auckland City Square when about 15,000 spectators and the 74 crews bowed their heads and observed two minutes' silence as a mark of respect for the victims of the US terror attacks.

With the start ramp surrounded by flaming lamps and immediately following a stirring unaccompanied version of the Kiwi National Anthem, 'God Defend New Zealand', it 78

was a rare time of reflection in a sport which is usually known for its speed and press on regardless nature.

While the NZ public were keen to show their support, the Ford team's third works Focus driven by Frangois Delecour, above, had all sponsor stickers removed and simply displayed a US flag and a recognition of the disaster on the plain white car.

Ford is the only US maker represented in the WRC. -JON THOMSON

THE simmering arguments about starting order bubbled to the surface again in New Zealand, where the dry spring road conditions changed the natime of the rally, putting the pressm’e on the leading cars.

With a lot more dust and loose gravel on the road compared to when the rally was run in the wet winter months, running as car one in NZ this year became a major handicap.

The World Championship leaders were keen for Rally Australia’s radical seeding system to be applied to the Kiwi Rally, fearing that they stood little chance of winning otherwise.

According to Richard Burns,the situation is something that has to be addressed immediately if rallying is to remain a credible competition.

“It is ridiculous,” he said. “It is like making Michael Schumacher, the best FI driver in the world, go out on a wet track to qualify while

everyone else had a dry track, so that he would start off the back of the grid.

“It is the same in rallying at the moment;the fastest people are regarded with the biggest handicap.

It has to be fixed.”

Although he is pleased with his Mitsubishi’s performance, Tommi Makinen is concerned that the system rewards tactics and not speed.

“We have a system where we drivers are happy and we don’t have it in place. Why do we penalise the leader ofthe championship?” said Makinen.

“I think it is even worse than Australia,” he added.

The works team directors met at the Raglan service pai'k on Friday to discuss what could be done about the starting order chaos.

According to Mitsubishi Ralliaid’s Andrew Cowan,the favoured option at the moment is what has become known as the ‘Australian Solution’, so named because it was first tried in Perth two years ago and will again be used in November. motorsport news

Whazzup!

NASCAR Petree lands a backer = but needs another

after originally thinking he would be without backers for both of his teams, Andy Petree has announced that Square D and Schneider Electric will return in 2002 and 2003 to sponsor Bobby Hamilton.

Oakwood Homes, Joe Nemechek's sponsor, will not be back and Petree is looking in earnest for a replacement primary sponsor for that team.

aacK on track: NAbCAR racing returned at Dover after a weekend off. with ‘Little E’ takino the Bud ‘ran' to victory, above. The thoughts of all were still with September 11, Elliott Sadler below, and Ken Schrader, bottom, just two of the drivers racing in remembrance.

(Photos b y Martin D Clartt and Sullon-lmages)

by MARTIN D CURK DALE Earnhardt Jr dominated the early going of Sunday’s Dover race, fell hack mid-way, hut rehounded to conquer the concrete track they call the ‘Monster Mile’.

Along with ‘Little E’,(who led 193 of the 400 tours), Ricky Rudd dominated the event, taking the lead from Earnhardtjust prior to halfway but when lapping Rusty Wallace on lap 346 - in what looked like an intentional move Wallace appeared to speed up in the turn and spin Rudd around, luckily without contact to the retaining walls.

Rudd rallied to finish third, but was irate with Wallace, grabbing his driving suit in a garage area scuffle.

“I know he’s got the nickname ‘rubberhead’in the garage area and I never understood it,” said Rudd of Wallace,“but I understand it now. I used to have a lot of respect for that guy, but I wouldn’t give him two cents right now. The only thing that keeps me going is when I look at the world’s problems, this isn’t too bad.”

Wallace countered Rudd’s statement; “I think I’m going to name him cone head, because he’s got a hell of a problem out there. He was hot but was no match for the power of Earnhardt at the end. in the garage area, because he was Jarrett was the cause of the 11th leading the race and he got spun.

I’d be hot too, but he’s got to watch and final caution, leaving an eight the way he drives.” lap shootout to the chequers, when Junior passed Dale Jarrett for he was tagged by Tony Stewart in the lead with 38 laps to run and what can only be described as a never looked back. racing incident.

“The car was good when it “DJ’s one of my good friends and counted,” said Jr. I don’t want to get into him like “It was good to get around those that,” said Stewart. guys and get gone.”

“That’s what happens when Junior carried a large American Goodyear gives us a piece ofjunk flag around on his cool down lap ' tyre like that. It wasn’t and donated over $180,000 of his intentional.” winnings to the New York Jarrett was not too concerned charities. about the incident, realising that Runner-up Jerry Nadeau had a Stewart had the nose of his gi'eat run from 41st on the grid, Pontiac under him and his line

-

28 Sepietnuer 2001

n Former Winston Cup champs Bill Elliott and Terry Labonte completed milestones in their careers at Dover. Elliott started his 650th event, Labonte his 700th, and they finished 30th and 17th respectively. n Gary Nelson will step down as director of the Winston Cup Series to head up NASCAR's research and development centre in Conover, North Carolina. His place will be taken by current Busch Series director John Darby.

m

n NASCAR had its first test of the black box recorders they plan to use in all cars next year at Dover. Two recorders were placed in the Busch North and Busch Series races and the cars of Bobby Labonte and Jeff Gordon also ran the equipment In a test to see if they stand up to the heat inside the Cup cars. n Rick Mast, Jason Leffler and Dave Marcis were not fast enough to make the cut at Dover, while the three Roush cars of Mark Martin, Matt Kenseth and Kurt Busch took provisionals along with Jimmy Spencer, Jerry Nadeau and Dave Blaney.

was such that it chopped Stewart off exiting the turns.

Stewart moved to third in the standings ahead of Jarrett, while Rudd gained just 10 points on leader Jeff Gordon, who started 23rd but finished fourth. Had Rudd not been spun, he would have gained at least 15 more points.

Final result; Earnhardt Jr(Chevy), Nadeau (Chevy), Rudd (Ford), Gordon (Chevy), Stewart (Pontiac), Har’vick (Chevy), Nemechek (Chevy), Marlin (Chevy),Atwood (Dodge), Hamilton (Chevy).

Points standings; Gordon 3928, Rudd 3616, Stewart 3516,Jarrett 3507, Marlin 3444, 3429, Hai-vick 5483, R Wallace 3355, B Lahonte 3327, Benson

n Jeremy Mayfield took a hard hit at Dover when a right front tyre let go. He slammed the wall and was knocked unconscious momentarily, but CAT scans at a local hospital revealed no head injuries and Mayfield got by with a chipped tooth and some bruises. n Mike Skinner will leave Richard Childress Racing earlier than the end of this year as he prepares for more surgery on the left knee he injured earlier in the year. Skinner said the surgery will take eight weeks to recover fully from and he feels it's not fair on his 2002 team - possibly Morgan McClure or Japser Motorsports - to go into a new situation and not feel 100 per cent. It's expected Robby Gordon will replace Skinner and take the seat when he leaves within the next few weeks.

- MARTIN D CLARK 79

niASCAR cancels N Going to the end of the ealendar; New Hampshire has already hosted a Winston Cup race in July this year. hut Robert Pressley and'Terry Labonte and the gang, below, have to wait until November to have its second in light of the terrorist attacks on; New York and Washington (Photo by Sulton-tmages)

Gordon/Hen

Pholo bv Martin D Claii

by MARTIN D CLARK

%

IT looks very likely Ultra Motorsports will pull the plug on its Winston Cup team at the end of the year as current sponsor Nations Rent suffers financial woes and will not back their contract to sponsor the team in 2002.

Team owner Jim Smith is considering a lawsuit against Nations Rent and aithough he wouid like to keep the team intact, it remains uniikely.

80

I

The car, driven by Mike Wailace, above, has suffered with poor results this year with an average finish of 25th having aiso non-quaiified for seven events.

Uitra currentiy have two Dodge Truck Series teams, third and fifth in points, and are pianning on a Busch entry, one of the first for Dodge.

Shouid the Cup team keep its doors open they wili aiso switch to Dodge from Ford.

- MARTIN D CLARK

HENDRICK Motoi’sports made the announcement official on September 18 that Jimmie Johnson will pilot a fourth Chevi-olet for the organisation in 2002, plus enter three races this season kicking off at Charlotte on October 6.

As rumoured, Lowe’s Home Improvement warehouses will be the primary sponsor on the 26year-old’s cars and in addition, their logo will appear as an associate sponsor on Jeff Gordon’s car next year.

“When a deal like this comes together for a driver, the media and many of the fans ai'e going to expect us to win races right away,” said Johnson.

“But they can’t put any more pressure on me than I put on myself With a team-mate like Jeff and a sponsor like Lowe’s, I think I motorsport news

NASCAR

sw Hampshire

by MARTIN D CLARK/STAFF

DUE to the terrible acts of terrorism carried out in the north east of the United States, NASCAR postponed the September 16 running of the New Hampshire event.

Quite why they didn’t cancel the event totally is not known, as with the series having no off weekends between now and the November 18 season finale, the race has been moved back to Friday November 23, the day after Thanksgiving and a large family holiday in the States.

“This is a time for families to come together,” NASCAR President Mike Helton said in the official release.

“We felt that postponing this weekend’s race was simply the right thing to do.”

This means the over-worked teams will have to travel to the track on Thanksgiving Day, some 14 hours drive north and then battle the weather, which at the same time last year saw the high temps at around minus five degrees, which should be great for getting heat in tyres at a track that saw two deaths last year ...

Rusty Wallace summed up NASCAR’s decision in his usual frank way;

“They did the best thing, but I think ifthey totally deleted the race everybody would understand. I mean come on,they open the ski slopes in North Carolina that weekend.”

Tony Stewart, perhaps one of the most active drivers in American racing through his ownership of a World of Outlaws team. Indy 500 campaign and frequent dirt-track appearances in addition to his Winston Cup racing exploits, said that racing was the furthest thing from his mind.

“Normally, I’ll race anywhere, anyplace at anytime,” he said.

“But nothing’s been normal since Tuesday morning. NASCAE made the right decision to postpone the race at New Hampshire because there are a lot more important things going on in the world right now. I’m still in shock, to be honest, of what has happened,just like everyone else.

“I don’t believe that we should go hide in a corner or something, because that's exactly what these terrorists would want us to do.

But taking this weekend off was definitely the right thing to do.

It’ll give everyone some time to heal before we start returning to our way of life.”

Due to the ban on air travel, some teams had already headed to

New Hampshire by road, among them Jeff Gordon’s Hendrick team, who made it to Pennsylvania before being told the race was off The idea of the Friday race is so as Saturday and Sunday can be used as rain - or snow - dates, with just 30 minutes of practice apparently planned prior to the race, with the starting grid taken from the points order.

The race was only the second

I don't believe that we should go hide in a corner or something, because that's what these terrorists would want us to don - Tony Stewart non-weather postponement in 30 years, the other being the 1998 Daytona July race, which was re scheduled due to wildfires in the area.

Texas Motor Speedway boss Bruton Smith offered to buy the race from New Hampshire owner Bob Bahre, but Bahre has elected to press on as scheduled with his race.

drick/Lowe’s deal have a special opportunity to be successful in Winston Cup racing.”

Johnson will gun for Rookie of The Year honours in the number 48, run from the same stable as Gordon in an apparent‘two car, one team’ mentality.

Amazingly, Johnson got the deal when he first asked Gordon for advice last year. Gordon liked what he saw enough to talk about a fourth team within the Hendrick fold that the three-time champ has part ownership in.

Following the announcement, Johnson hopped in his new ride for testing at Charlotte and set the second fastest unofficial time in two days of testing.

Johnson currently drives in the Busch Series for Herzog Motorsports and sponsor Excedrin.

He won his first race at Chicago this year and has recorded eight top 10 results in 26 starts during 2001, lying eighth in series points.

28 September 2001

Kids shine in testing TWO days of testing took place at Charlotte in preparation for the October 6 event, with Stacy Compton leading the way on the speed chart among the 14 teams that participated. Following Compton's Dodge were rookie Jimmie Johnson and Ricky Rudd, Stuart Kirby, Dale Earnhardt Jr, Kurt Busch and John Andretti.

Kirby, a 20-year-old from Kentucky, has been competing in the ARCA Supercar Series this year and has posted some impressive results in his first year. In his maiden race he came home fifth at Daytona, recorded two poles at Pocono and finished runnerup at Charlotte in May. Kirby will attempt the Charlotte Cup event in an ex-PPI Ricky Craven Ford owned by veteran ARCA driver Bob Schacht, the youngster being very consistent in the runs he made at the track in the car. n Veteran crew chief Jim Long has resigned as crew chief for Mike Wallace at the struggling Ultra Motorsports, with Buddy 'Red Dog' Barnes and Scott Lepage taking Long's place in that role for the remainder of the year. n In a second incident of its t/pe this year, crew member Troy Cole, the truck driver for Ron Flornaday's A J Foytowned team,fell from the transporter's loading ramp during testing at Charlotte.

Cole broke his right leg when he fell the 10 feet-plus to the ground. n Two crew members were injured at Petty Enterprises on September 12, when a fire broke out as vapours from a spilled 400 litre drum of petrol entered a wash bay where a pressure washer was running. The flame in the pressure washer used to heat the water ignited the vapour and burned the two men, one receiving second and third degree burns to his legs and arms. n Derrike Cope will attempt the October Charlotte event, not in his self owned/Ron Johnson car, but one owned by ARCA team owner Ted Campbell. Cope tested recently at Kansas and Charlotte in the CLRsponsored Ford with Robert Yates power, Kenny Wallace was originally slated to drive the car, but he was called upon to sub for the injured Steve Park.

Skinner and Childress out, Johnson and Hendrick in: Could Jimmie Johnson, left, become Rick Hendrick’s next Jeff Gordon?

n Following their antics in the Richmond Busch Series event, Roush driver Greg Biffle was fined $30,000 for throwing a punch at Jay Sauter, with Sauter, who took out Biffle on-track for retaliation to an earlier incident, getting a $20,000 fine. Both drivers were also docked 100 points each and Sauter's crew chief Gene Nead was fined $10,000.

- MARTIN D CLARK

(Photos by Sutton-lmages and Martin D Clark)

81

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Big i

by AARON NOONAN

Crump continues

JASON Crump continued his superb run of form with victory in the Elite League Riders’ Championship at Sheffield to win a brand new Jawa machine worth $6000.

The King’s Lynn rider got the better of Ipswich star Scott Nicholls in a spectacular final,

with Lynn colleague Nicki Pedersen third.

Crump was a worthy winner after finishing as top scorer in the quaifying heats with 14 points, two ahead of Nicholls with Wolverhampton’s Mikael Karlsson on 11.

“It’s a hard meeting to win and

it’s always good to come away with a win,” said Crump.

“It’s been a good night. I’m disappointed I didn’t win all five of my heats, that’s the way it goes but there’s only one race you have to win in the end.”

- MIKE PATRICK

QLD V8 calendar Randy out for year announced Photo hv Moriiii D Clark

THE 2001/2002 racing calendar for the Queensland V8 Dirt Modified Association has been released, with a total of 10 meetings to be held.

Two of these events are set down for Charleton Speedway in Toowoomba, with the remainder held at the Brisbane International Speedway(BIS).

Highlighting the season will be the staging of three major events at BIS. The first of these major events will be held on November 24, and will pay a total of $6000 in prize and tow money. This is one of the first major events of the season along the East Coast and is sure to attract a quality field of V8 Dirt Modifieds.

The second major event for the Queensland V8 Dirt Modified Association will be a two-night event on January 4 and 5. Some $10,000 in prize and tow money will be paid out over the two nights. The event has been strategically placed to lure competitors who will be in the region following the Australian Title at Lismore in late December.

The third major event of the season will be Queensland V8 Dirt Modified Championship, to be held at BIS on May 4. This event, one of the most hotly contested meetings on the Queensland calendar, has been won for the last two years by NSW hotshot Mark Robinson.

82

UP-and-coming World of Outlaws racer Randy Hannagan is more than likely to miss the rest of the 2001 racing season, with his broken leg not healing as well as it was first thought.

“There’s a bone fragment that didn’t take when they put everything back together,” said Hannagan.

“The fragment moved a little bit and has caused what they call an open fracture. Where the two bones go together, there’s a piece of bone missing.

I might have to go in for a bone graft or just let it heal on its own. That can take anywhere from three to six months.”

THE big money up for grabs for this year’s World Series Sprintcar tour has increased again, with round six of the series at Avalon Raceway on December 8 to become a twonight affair featuring $10,000 to win the A-Main.

“This is the first time we have paid that kind of money out to win a World Series event at the Avalon Raceway and we’re all very excited about it,” said Jeff Drew.

Second place in the Avalon $10,000 spectacular wiU pay $5000, which is the normal purse to win a standard WSS main event, with the dates for the event now Friday, December 7 and 8.

The Friday night event will see a feature race paying $2500 to win and valuable points in the overall make-up of the Saturday night activities.

“That’s three roimds that pay $10,000 to win,” said an excited Andrew Scheuerle.

“Between Adelaide ($10,000), the Newcastle final ($10,000), the Australian Open at Brisbane ($8000 to win) and now Avalon (total of $12,500) that’s almost $40,000 to win four rounds.”

The overall championship winner will pick up $15,000, so on the very unlikely chance that one driver wins all feature races and therefore the championship, they stand to collect $116,000.

IN other World Series Sprintcainews, Motorsport News sources understand that a series sponsor has been signed for the upcoming 2001/2002 series.

World Series Sprintcar staff weren’t prepared to make comment when contacted by Motorsport News,though we understand a significant announcement will be made in the next week or so revealing the backer.

The organisation has amioimced that O’Brien Aluminium will back the‘Hard Charger’Award that wiU be on offer in 10 of the WSS rounds, with a new lightweight main molorsport news

SPEEDWAY

m for WSS The big bucks are up for grabs: World Series Sprintcar regulars such as Max Dumesny will have the chance (Photo by Warren Bridge) to pick up some decent-sized cheques this summer. wing up for grabs,some 14 pounds lighter than last year’s version.

“This contingency sponsorship will reward the driver who has put on the best show at the selected World Series Sprintcars round that evening,” said O’Brien Aluminium Operations Manager Mick Goode.

“This award is not about constantly rewarding the featime winner,it might be a guy who passes the most cars, or who repairs his/her car after a big wreck and finishes the night or whatever. That’s the beauty of this contingencj^’it could reward any driver in the field.”

NT withdrawls

A FREAK back injury has forced Alice Springs Sprintcar driver Mike Hanlon to withdraw from the 2001/2002 World Series

Sprintcars competition on the eve of his series debut with fellow Territorian Danny Riedy.

"I know that Mike is devastated that he won't be competing in World Series because he's been looking forvvard to it ever since the boys were confirmed starters back in July," said team manager Dave McFadden, "but he's got far more on his plate right now than worrying about Sprintcars."

Hanlon's condition not only takes him out of the series, but also Danny Riedy - Mike's teenage protege from the Sahara Tours team.

This does not, however, free up two positions on the series for additional contracted drivers.

"Mike and Danny were racing in the series without the assistance of tow money," said WSS Managing Director David Lander, "we are still full up with our 15 contracted teams for this year, the boys from Alice Springs were additional attractions."

Max Dumesny Motorsport Australian Distributors for

Xcositr

^^ RACING TIRE

For more information on Hoos/er Drag and SpeedwayTyres coil:

NSW:02 9679 1990 l Fax 02 9679 1187 VIC:03 9331 6477 l Fax 03 9331 7444 SA:08 8332 0800 l Fax 08 8364 0296 28 Seplember 2001

An anxious wait THE terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11 had an effect on World of Outlaws as well as the rest of the racing world, with the Sprintcar organisation cancelling the O’Reilly Texas Showdown at Texas Motor Speedway.

One driver who had reason to be more worried about the attacks was Donny Schatz, with family members in New York City.

"I have a sister who lives 20 blocks from there (the World Trade Centre)," related Schatz, who will be in Australia this summer racing in the World Series.

"My youngest sister (Krista) lives in New York City. She just moved there a couple of months ago. In fact, my mum took her there when we raced at Williams Grove in July. She hasn't been there very long and I think she wants out of there now.

"I rolled into Tulsa about 2:30 Tuesday morning and my phone rang three or four times before 1 answered it. It was some Australians who asked me, 'is your sister OK?'. I said,'What do you mean?' All the phones were down there for a while, so we weren't real sure. She's a little shook up, but she's fine." n Quick Fit Tyre Service in Townsville has announced that it will back round two of the Queensland TrI-City Sprintcar Series at Townsville Speedway on October 10. The threeround series will start in Cairns (October 6), and end in Mackay (October 13). Max Dumesny, Stephen Bell and Darren Jensen are among the driving line-up for the series, which is the perfect warm-up for this season's World Series Sprintcar title chase. n Who'd have thought that finishing seventh in any race was worth anything! Allan Nash's Western Australian-based Extreme Race Products has become the latest in a long line of contingency sponsors for this year's World Series Sprintcar title.

The 'Lucky Seven' competition is open to all drivers who finish seventh in WSS main events, with the driver picking up either a new front wing (first six rounds) and from there on a voucher.

2001 WORLD OF OUTLAWS SERIES SCORE Standings to September 22, 2001 II. Paul McMahan ...

8497

I. Mark Kinser ...

2. Danny Lasoski .

3.Steve Kinser ...

4. Donny Schatz..

S.Craig Doilansky 6.Stevie Smith...

7.Jeff Shepard ...

B.Joey Saldana ...

9.Andy Hilienburg I O.Tim Shaffer ..

8469 8252 8081 8072 7930 7918 7889 7880 7878

12. Brad Furr 13. Jason Meyers 14. Danny Wood 15. Dale Blaney 16. Randy Hannagan .

17.Johnny Herrera...

18. Jac Haudenschild .

19. Sammy Swindell..

20. Daryn Pittman ...

Nebraska Raceway,September 22

7820 7460 7345 7299 7219 6999 5396 3498 3460 3323

I. Mark Kinser

11. Donny Schatz

2. Danny Lasoski 3.Tim Shaffer

12.Jeff Shepard i 3. Steve Kinser

l.Andy Hilienburg

14. Danny Wood 15. Paul McMahan

5.Joey Saidana 6. Stevie Smith 7. Craig Doilansky 8.Jason Meyers 9.johnny Herrera iO, Mike Goodman

16.Sammy Swindell 17. Brad Fun18. Dale Blaney 19.Jason Sides 20. Daryn Pittman

83

BaMonal BRIVI blitz scene

B

AUSTRALIAN FORMULA 3 CHAMPIONSHIP

RONTE Rundle Motorsport came out on top after an eventful round of Formula 3 racing at Sandown,with Darren Palmer and Daynom Templeman each taking home a win and a second.

But while the boys in blue were in command, championship leader Peter Hackett had a weekend that he’ll probably be keen to forget, starting with a hangover from the engine problems that plagued the scarlet Piccola Scuderia Corse car at Eastern Creek a few weeks ago.

Then he compounded that with a shunt at Easternats Corner late in the second qualifying session that destroyed the right front wishbone.

The BRM pairing giidded up for Race 1 having outqualified the second row of Hackett and Damien Damian Digby by Is. Templeman led Palmer away at the start, but Hackett, Digby and Coombs flew toward the first corner oflap 2 three abreast in their battle for third. Only two of them made it through, Hackett the one having an early shower.

The shadowing MSpeed Racing machine of Mike Beeley, helped along by a trip across the grass from Chris Coombs, soon found its way into third.

At the front, Tfempleman’s mirrors were filled by his team-mate. When the Kiwi appeared to miss a gear at the end ofthe back straight. Palmer jumped into the lead that he would maintain to the end.

Templeman’s attempt to reclaim his position ended with a costly spin that saw him rejoin just ahead of fourth-placed Digby. He recovered to reclaim second from Beeley at XR Corner a few laps later, and pulled out a gap that saw him home 5s behind Palmer.

Templeman led away in Race 2, again with Palmer giving chase, while Hackett was able to beat Digby away for third. As the latter dropped away following a Turn 1 spin, Palmer began to pressure Templeman for the lead.

This time around, though, it was the Kiwi’s turn to hold command, and he maintained his lead to take the flag by 0.6s from his team-mate.

- MARK GLENDENNING 84

ron Noonan

Alright, who put the wings on my car around the wrong way?: Darren Palmer shared the Formula 3 wins with his Kiwi team-mate Daynom Templeman, even despite the bumpy nature of Sheli Mastercard corner.

(Pholo by Difk Klynsmi(h)

Tight at the top

THINGS have become very tight at the top of the Century Batteries GT Production points table following the latest round at Sandown.

Series leader Scott Leadsman (Commodore SS)ended the weekend holding top spot by a mere five points from closest rival Brian Carr (Falcon XR8) after a clutch problem parked the Holden V8 midway through Race 2, while Winton winner John Mcliroy(XR8) now sits a further three points adrift.

Leadsman had previously been in command tor much of the weekend, claiming pole a full 1.7s clear of Carr.

Leadsman led the field away at the lights in Race 1 with Carr and Mcliroy giving chase, and 10 laps later they greeted the flag in the same order as they had started.

Carr again took the fight to Leadsman in Race 2, even holding the lead for a couple of

- T' X

l

Davo should pay usfor running photos like this; Brian Carr lakes his XRB (Photo by Dirk Klynsmitk) onto Sandown’s back straight. iaps before the Commodore was able to reclaim the top spot. It retired shortly afterwards though, vaulting Carr back into the iead from which he went on to take the win ahead of Mcliroy and Daryl Coon (Falcon XR6).

Coon, for his part, had a big weekend, taking a pair of class wins and sealing his second-

straight 6-Cylinder title, while teenager David Russell maintained his lead in the 4Cylinder championship with a pair of wins aboard his Caltex Havoiine Proton Satria.

Chief rival Luke Youiden scored two second places in his Astra.

- MARK GLENDENNING motorspori news

NATIONAL

It’s just Brutiful MICK Donaher drove away from Sandown with three winner's trophies in the rear tray of his Ford Falcon XR8 after the latest Poolrite V8 BRute round.

After topping the tables in qualifying by more than Is from the Holden VU SS of Rod Wilson, Donaher bounced

back from early dramas to take the flag after whacking the leading Quirks Refrigeration AU of Damien White out of contention on the final lap.

Gary Young followed him home in the CSR Readymix Holden, with Wilson’s Pirelli Motorsport machine completing the podium.

Donaher again came up trumps in Race 2, leaving the VIP Petfoods AU of Grant Denyer attempting to protect his second place from the flying Holden of Gary MacDonald.

The Channel Ten man-about-pitlane managed to hold on until the penultimate lap, when MacDonald vaulted ●,

around the outside of the AU at Turn 1, but he still managed to squeeze Wilson for third.

Wilson led away in Race 3, however by half distance Donaher had again seized the top spot and motored away to complete the hat-trick, leaving Wilson to shadow him home for second.

White completed the podium with a third, 2.5s down the

weekend'away frdti; V& Supercar raeing; wasn’t sudh a

pad;tKrigif6t5Midl^|iional!ier -he sedoped all three

race wins!

(Photo by Dirk Klynsmilh)

Irage mayhem

road.

- MARK GLENDENMNG

Tomorrow's

THE Toyo Tyres Mirage Series has provided some exciting racing during the year, and the pair of races at Sandown

were no exception.

Eastern Creek winner Dean Evans

began the weekend in good fonn, planting his Momo machine on

pole. A race-long battle for the lead between

Evans and Mark Eddy saw the latter take the lead, only to hand it back with a spin at Tuim 1. Shane Brangwin (who had started fi'om fifth) snuck through to finish second, with Eddy relegated to third.

Things got a little more complicated in Race 2, however...

Evans jumped the start, and attempted to compensate with a poor start that dropped him to fourth behind Andrew Taplin,

Yanis Derums, and Eddy.

After belting the wall at Tuim 4, Mohan Perera's car was deemed to

be in an unsafe position. Instead of

the expected red flag, the Safety Car was released, a source of some confusion, given there is no 28 September 2001

provision for Safety Cars in the Mirage series.

After the race returned to gr-een, Evans was black flagged, which, annoyed that his earlier efforts to make amends for the jumped start had been overlooked, he elected to 'P-Davsi.

ignore until the final lap.

The final twist came when, caught out by the absence of a final

lap board, Evans passed Taplin on the inside of the final corner, only to see the chequer being mrfurled.

Overshooting the pit entrance and having been passed by both Taplin and Eddy, Evans continued to the finish. He was later disqualified forignoring the black flag, handing the final podium spot to Derums.

- MARK GLENDENNING

2001 Ford KartStars Series including NKN Junior Blitz Ford Racing Personalities» Free Spectator Entry ● Full Canteen Facilities

Round 5 - Melbourne VIC, October 13-14

rww.kartstarsxom.au 85

CIK final at Eastern Creek WITH Motorsport News's regular deadline being brought forward a day, we are unable to bring you a full report on the final round of the CIK Karting Championships at Eastern Creek.

However, the titles went to Mark Winterbottom in Formuia A, Josh Hunt in Intercontinentai A and Tim Slade in Junior intercontinental A. A full report will feature in National Scene next issue,

by SlipstrtfBm Photographic

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Look out, Luke’s coming through: After surprising ever)>body by qualifying his V8 Supercarfor the Oran Park Shell Series round, Luke Sieders again proved hisform on the Sydney layout with a win in roundfour ofthe Super Trucks..

(Photo hy John Morris/Mpb:)

n Multipie New Zealand junior karting champion Chris Vander Drift, who competes in the Junior Intercontinental A class of the Australian CIK series, has joined Team Kiwi Racing, the team that fields a V8 Supercar in the Sheli Championship Series for Jason Richards, above.

"He has shown a great deal of commitment and professionalism towards his karting this season and we have rewarded him with the unique opportunity to develop his motorsport career within our team," said David John, owner of Team Kiwi. n Troy Hunt has once again been called into service for the factory Top Kart team in Europe. After competing in two rounds of the Formuia Super A World Championship, Hunt received the call to be in Belgium for the fourth round to once again take the place of Bruno Vroomen. Having to be in Europe to conduct further testing. Hunt was not able to contest the final Australian CIK round at Eastern Creek where he was in contention for the series title. n With the final round of the FSA World Championship in Japan being cancelled, latest news is that there is a push for a fifth round to still go ahead. To minimise cost, this will possibly take place at the Braga circuit in Portugal, although at the time of writing no date had been confirmed. n A new line of Australian made karting products has recently been launched on the market. The 'Streaker' brand of components is the brainchild of long-time Sydney karting identity and Haase importer Alan Stevenson.

The product line currently consists of wheel hubs, axle components and various other accessories.

-MARK WICKS 86

Slidin’ Sieders

ORAN Park was hidden under a cloud of smoke as the Super Trucks contested round four of the Power Tour.

It was a day of mixed results, but Luke Sieders won the round overall, while standing beside him on the podium were John Bomberle and Inky Tulloch.

The Dash for Cash saw Sieders take away three extra championship points and a pocketful of cash.

Rodney Crick finished in second and collected his only points for the weekend, as he didn’t manage to finish a race.

Mark Morton won the Dash in the Light Trucks and placed first in his class for two races, winning the Light Truck category.

Race 1 was led from the start by Tulloch. Crick parked his truck early in the race due to a jammed throttle, while Daniel Bajema and Glen Dobson found the track wasn’t wide enough for both of them, though Bajema spun back onto the track and

finished in fifth. Tulloch won, with a huge gap back to Sieders and Joe Scarcella.

The second race promised excitement and didn’t fail to deliver. Starting from a reverse grid, it was red-flagged on the first lap after Barry Butwell spun at the dipper. The restart was clean, with Tulloch charging through the field. Dobson took the lead from Bomberle after dragging him down the straight.

The battle for minor placings ensued behind him, Tulloch dicing with Sieders and Bomberle. He roared past both of them on the main straight with two laps to go, securing his second place.

The third race - the Superprix - was also marred by a red-flag, but it didn’t stop Sieders jumping to the front after the restart. Tulloch was in third for most of the race, but developed engine problems and pitted, only managing to finish ninth.

Sieders won, with Bomberle and Dobson taking second and third respectively.

- ERIN McCOWATT

Reddy, steady, Andy

THE Stock Car drivers were seeing red as two of their three races were redflagged at Oran Park, though Andrew Miedecke took the hat trick, winning all three races.

Lady luck was on Miedecke’s side in the first race. After dicing with Richard Howe and Mark Harrison for the lead, Miedecke crashed exiting the final turn, with George Elliot stuck up in the dramas.

The race was red-flagged, though Miedecke won because he had led the last completed lap. Howe and Harrison finished second and third respectively.

The second race proved to be just as exciting, with Miedecke starting from the back after a minor technical infringement. He stormed ahead eight places in one lap, to battle at the front with Howe and Middleton.

On lap nine, it all came to an end for Howe, after he collided with Miedecke.

Middleton and Doug Moss filled out the podium.

Race three started with a reverse grid, with Howe getting an early lead. On lap three, he exited the final turn with a hard left straight into the infield, crushing both his car and hopes of a win.

The race was red-fiagged on lap seven after John Maultsaid had a major lose. The win went to Miedecke, with Tony Southwell and Harrison behind him.

- ERIN WicCOWATT motorsport nows

NATIONAL

Waking up the Park

by MICHAEL SHAW

IT was a full weekend of fast and furious racing at Wakefield Park’s latest round of the New South Wales state series on September 15-16.

The Sports Sedans kicked off the racing with three races and three red flags. Anton Abramovic took two wins and a second,firstly from Joseph Said and Paul Adams and the second ahead of Bill Martin and Andrew Leithead. Martin took out the third race.

Craig Smith dominated the combined AF2/Supersports races, taking three wins from three starts, while Street Sedans shuffled the minor placings in each race with Allan Marin cruising to victory every time.

Phil Ai'mour completed a hat trick of wins in the Improved Production Under 2L races; Paul Zyfert(Sunny)completed the

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BROTHERS Jace and Jordie Lindstrom both won their respective classes at the Australasian Kart Titles at Numurkah (Vic) recently.

Jace won on his senior debut when he took out Clubman Light, while Jordie won every event for Junior National Light despite Jack Perkins pressuring him every inch of the way.

Jace qualified fastest in a field of 16 Clubman Lights, but had to concede defeat to James Sera in the opening heats, then Adam Bullas in the pre-final. Come final time, Lindstrom made a committed start, running around the outside into the first turn, and took a lead he would hold all the way to the end of the 15 lap final.

Bullas trailed Lindstrom for the entire race but was never close enough to challenge. Sera had to start from the rear after a mechanical failure in the pre final, but retired mid-race after contact as he made his way through the field.

For Jordie, he too qualified fastest in the Junior National Light category and managed to win every race for the class.'

Perkins played cat-and-mouse by sitting in behind during the pre final, and despite getting to the 28 September 2001

m

%%

Benissimo! The Alfa field was, funnily enough, full of Alfas, above, while the (Pholos by Michael Shaw) Sports Sedans are always good for a flame show, below.

Lindstpom Double

by MARK WICKS

±

.'X

front several times during the final, it was Lindstrom who held the upper hand. Rick Pringle finished third, and his elder brother Jason took a comfortable win over Brooke Pearson in Junior National Heavy.

Despite being crashed out of the opening heat, Peter Boys bounced back with a vengeance to win Clubman Heavy. Michael McLaughlin and Graeme Monds finished first and second in Rotax Heavy but were fortunate to even take the start after both experienced mechanical problems in the roll-up laps.

Junior Blitz points leader Cameron Farr outclassed the Junior Clubman field taking a l dominant win in the final after nearest challenger Simon Leech, who won one of the heats, spent several laps bottled up behind a fast starting Jason Pringle.

The young kinds in Midgets and Rookies yet again put on a superb display of close racing without contact, Brenton Mountjoy and Andrew McFarland winning their respective classes. Other winners were Matthew Mills (Senior National), Chris Milthorpe (Formula Australia Heavy), Scott Towner (Clubman Super Heavy) and Glen Chadwick (Clubman Over 40s).

quinella each time with Ashley Birks(Gemini)finishing third for the first two races and Gavin Fazakerley (Corolla)the third.

David Capraro and Andrew Papadopoulos battled each other in all three Formula Alfa races.

Capraro held him out in all races, though no-one held out Scott Fleming(RX7), who blitzed the Improved Production field.

Three hard fought Clubman Sports Car races yielded Chris Barry one of each podium position.

Brian Anderson finished second in race 1 and went on to win the rest.

The Formula Vee races were all won by Benjamin Porter, while Matthew Howard and Justin Watt battled throughout the first Formula Ford race and halfway through the second, when Watt spun while in lapped traffic.

Watt managed to hold on to second, while Ben Eggleston and Grant Ashby took a third each.

stops classic BRAKES & sportscars

OGtobep Monat Raeiao

Circuit Event Mt Seaview, NSW NSW Rally Championship:?

Black Range/Blue Range, Vic Victorian Club Rally Series:5 Ashbourne, SA President's Trophy Rally Maldon, Vic Multi-Club Historic Hillclimb 6-7 Bathurst, NSW 7 V8 Supercar 1000 Mallala, SA Porsche Supersprint Mansfield/Murray, Vic 12-14 Classic Country Tour Collingrove, SA SA State Hilllclimb Championships My Lloyd, Tas 13 Multi-Club Rally Dayiesford, Vic Robson Cup Rally Series - Moonlight Meander Oran Park, NSW 13-14 The Power Tour Calder, Vic Victorian Motor Racing Championship Queensland Raceway, OLD State Racing Baskerville, Tas 14 Multi-Club Race Meeting Mundaring, WA Telstra Rally Australia Trial Event Adelaide Environs, SA 18-21 Classic Adelaide Rally Wakefield Park, NSW 20-21 State Races Springfield, OLD Australian Off-Road Championship:5 Wallangarra, OLD 20 Wallangarra Road Rally Mansfield/Murray, Vic Victorian Rally Championship:5 Winton, Vic The Power Tour 21 Calder, Vic Club Superkart Race Mallala, SA Superkart Race Barbagallo, WA HQ Holden and Group N enduro Georgetown, Tas Multi-Club Hillclimb 27 Symmons Plains, Tas Mult-Club Club Day Wirrabara Forest, SA SA Rally State Championship;6 Mallala, SA Twilight Race Meeting Mt Ooraminna, NT 27-28 NT Off-Road Titles

Date 6

To make sure your event is listed in future issues, write to PO BOX 1010, Caulfield North 3161 or email msnews@ozemail.com.au the National^..

Scene Editor with details of your event. ^r i Kevlar pads and rotors available. Suitable for most club day appiications./j Hh

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87

Gooc/woocf Revival Meeting

Goodwood, and gotting boner *

If you couldn't make it to the famous Goodwood Revival Meeting on September 1416, here's some of the sights (you'll have to imagine the sounds for yourself) that you missed out on.

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Like a red rag to a bull: The emphasis at the Goodwood Revival Meeting is supposed to be on participation, not competition. But as soon as the flag drops, all that goes out of the window, above ieft.

Time machine: In keeping with the festival’s aim to revive the circuit’s post-war glory days, access to many areas of the paddock requires everyone including all drivers, team members, officials, media, and spectators - to wear period 1940s clothing, above right

Photos by Sutton-images

motorsport news

HISTORICS Briefly Historic

Familiar face: Sir Jack Brabham makes frequent appearances at race meetings around the world and is a Goodwood regular, above. {Photo by Sutton-lmages)

From one thing... Goodwood Is renowned for the variety of machinery that takes to the track during the weekend. A Lotus Cortina, above, negotiates the esses. ...to another: Dickie Attwood’s GT40, left.

When eras collide: Afield of Jaguars, representing Britain’s recovery from the devastation of the war years, scorch away from the startline against a backdrop of American flags at half-mast - a symbol of respect for the victims of a far more recent disaster.

MANY motoring enthusiasts took up the invitation in the Melbourne press to ‘Spend Father's Day Surrounded by the Ones You Love’, and attended the display of Lindsay Fox's Classic Car Collection at the Docklands.

The open day on September 2 featured many of Fox's great Mercedes-Benz, Porsches and Jaguars, but for me the main highlight was an opportunity to wander through the workshop where the restorations take place. What a revelation I And for good measure, his VI2 Jaguar XJR 15 (one of only 52 built) and F50 Ferrari were on hand for all to enjoy close up.

Outside the old warehouse where the cars are housed was a fine collection of other vehicles and car club displays. It was a day well spent, and all proceeds went to the Father's Day Appeal for the Alfred Hospital. n Supp. Regs, and entry forms are now available for the VHRRs Multi-Club Hillclimb to be held at Gippsland Park, Morwell on Sunday, October 14.

Invited clubs include the Lotus Club, Victorian Morgan Owners Club, VSCC, Sprite Drivers Club, MG Club, Austin Healey Owners Club and the Historic Touring Car Association.

A maximum of 60 entries will be accepted in order of receipt. Contact Ray Da Costa (5940 1647) or JohnDavid d'Asques (9776 1013)for further details.

(Photos by Sulton-lmages)

n Joining Scuderia Veloce team owner David McKay and his protege Spencer Martin at the recent Eastern Creek meeting were some other Aussie motorsport greats.

Late '40s/early '50s stars Dick Cobden and John Crouch were earnestly discussing the good old days over a lunch hosted by the HSRCA. Cobden was honoured by having a trophy race named after him, while Crouch will be remembered for winning the 1949 Australian Grand Prix in his Deiahaye Type 135 at Leyburn, Queensland.

Also spotted was Leo Geoghegan, who also had a race named in his honour. n There's no doubting the popularity of the Formula 5000s, and as Mike Glynn's ex-John Leffler Lola was being warmed up in the pits, a spectator with a grin from ear to ear was heard to say, "It's like Heaven on a stick!"

There will be 15 'Heavens on sticks' at Sandown for the VHRR's big Tasman Challenge meeting on November 10-11.

- BRIAN REED

28 SepiBmber 2001

89

hUSTOmCS - Bathurst

Charging down memory lane TRARALGON’S Ray Ikin has had an on-going love affair with Chryslers, in particular Pacers and Chargers.

“As well as a couple of Pacers, I've had six E38s and five E39s over the years. Don’t ask me how many ordinary Chargers I've owned!” he said.

“I even ran my own Chrysler museum in Gippsland for a while.”

Amongst Ikin’s current fleet is body number 209, a Charger he bought from a fellow Chrysler buff who not only has lots of cars and parts but also restores trams. All of Ray’s Chryslers have been road cars, but he always wanted to own a race car.

The closest he came to this was to build a replica of his hero Norm Beechey’s Charger painted in the Shell Team lively The former owner of No. 209 mentioned to Ray that he thought the car may have had a racing history. When Ikin told a friend that he had Charger No. 209, his friend replied, “That’s the Charger on Chrysler’s Bathurst poster!”

Ray couldn’t get to his copy of the poster quickly enough, and the rear number plate KZA 208 confirmed his good fortune.

KZA 208, carrying number 38D, was driven at Mt.Panorama in the 1971 Hardie-Ferodo 500 by Graham Ritter and myself for team owner Lee Seaton and West Heidelberg Motors.

For homologation purposes, at least 200 cars had to be sold to the public. A total of 234 E38s were built by Chrysler, 10 of which were entered for the ’71 endurance classic.

I had driven two Torana XU-ls for Lee Seaton during 1970, including one in the 1970 race at Mt. Panorama, and knew he would love to have owned a GTHO Falcon. Financially it was out of reach, so he compromised and bought one of the recently-released Charger RT E38s instead.

On the night before the race in 1971, Chrysler officials gathered together all Charger drivers for a briefing and told us they didn’t care which car won, as long as it was a Charger.

As things turned out, the 90

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Before and after: Reed hauls Charger No. 209 around the mountain during 1971’s Hardie-Ferodo 500, above, and then, thirty years on, is reunited with his mount for a blast into the past at Morwell, Victoria, earlier this month, below.

f>hoiO by Rob PrezioM

factory-backed car of Leo Geoghegan and Peter Brown was the highest-placed Charger in seventh position outright, one lap down on Allan Moffat’s winning GTHO Falcon (the only car to complete the 130 laps), and only 46 seconds behind Colin Bond’s class winning Torana XU-1.

After Saturday’s practice, our car required some major mechanical repairs due to overheating - head gaskets were a problem with the E38 Charger and that resulted in a late night for our team on the eve of the race.

But my most'vivid recollection was the Charger’s ‘total loss’ brake system - the brakes I'an out completely as the race progi'essed.

In fact, there was so much ■vibration from the totally worn out brakes that it set off the fire extinguisher during Ritter’s stint behind the wheel.

The Chargers had lots of gi-unt up the hill and plenty of top speed, but all the good work was undone approaching the end of Conrod Straight.

These were pre-Caltex Chase days, and it was a full-on charge

into Murray’s Corner.

Om'braking point was a gum tree 800 metres from the corner and before the last rise, so we were on the pedal even before we could see the turn.

Sticking to the outside line to maximise our chances of making the left-hander meant that all the smaller, more nimble cars would fly past under brakes, and then we would begin the task of rounding them up again up Mountain Straight.

Frustrating stuff, made even more so by the steering column coming adrift- again, the vibration had caused the bolts holding the column to work loose and ‘Tubby’ Ritter virtually handed me the wheel on a tiller after one of om'pit stops!

By the chequered flag we had covered 118 laps to finish 16th in class and 23rd outright.

The Series Production race career of KZA 208 ended suddenly on December 12,1971 after I was involved in a big dice with Norm Beechey’s similar' car and then a head-on crash with Tony Roberts’s XU-1 along the back straight at Calder. The race was red-flagged and abandoned.

Several weeks ago, Ray phoned to say,‘T've found yom'old Bathurst Charger!”

Thirty years on and I have been reimited with KZA 208, now painstakingly rebuilt, -with a 'visit to the Morwell Hillclimb on September 18 for some nostalgic laps.

Based on photographs of the car in action at Bathurst in 1971, Ray plans to now reproduce the original signage and use the cai'for displays and various Chrysler gatherings - as well as an exciting road car that draws plenty of interest wherever it goes.

We can only sm-mise what might have been had Chrysler,like Ford and Holden, backed a full-on motor racing program and further developed the Chai'ger to include the 340cu.in. 5.2-litre V8 %vith 4speed gearbox, and, of course, some decent brakes. It certainly had the potential!

- BRIAN REED moiorsDort news

INDUSTRY NEWS

Frame Work!Surge Tanks

Following the success of the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix port decanter, The Tank, Ceramic Innovations has announced the release of The Frame - designed to house and display the Tank and The Engine plus each new piece released at The Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix over the next five years.

The Tank was the first piece to be released at the 2000 Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix and was an instant success. Fashioned in the shape of a motorcycle tank, this striking ceramic decanter was designed and manufactured in Australia. The Tank will be followed by a series of port decanters released each year until 2006 to complete the display. Each decanter will form part of the bike with The Engine released for the 2001 Moto GP. Not content to produce simply a stand, the team at Ceramic Innovations have designed and produced a quality work of art in its own right. The Frame is 100 percent Australian made and hand built using components sourced by Australian craftsmen, all leaders in their respective fields.

The Frame has been produced with only quality materials designed to add value to this unique collection. Solid Jarrah wood shelving lacquered and

EFI Hardware has

finished combines with a fabricated 6ml steel frame heat treated and forged in a style depicting a motorcycle. The steel has been plated and polished as with the nuts, bolts and fittings. To ensure collectability each Frame is completed with a pewter badge which is bronzed and hand stamped to number.

The Frame is limited to only 2000 units and along with the popularity of the Tank is sure to be in great demand.

To secure your Frame order direct with Ceramic Innovations on 03 9555 9011, fax 03 9563 9793 or visit the website www.ceramicinnovations.com.au

released a range of surge tanks designed to eliminate fast cornering and high performance driving starving your fuel supply.

With cornering, acceleration and braking, the fuel moves around in the tank. This allows the fuel pump to pick up air, thus aerating the fuel. Some of this aerated fuel is dehvered through the injectors to the engine, resulting in surging, hesitation and harmful detonation. Surge Tanks eliminate this problem by acting as a small reservoir that de-aerates the fuel, ensming constant fuel pressure and flow.

EFI Hardware Surge Tanks are available in steel with a baked enamel finish, polished aluminium and polished stainless steel for an impressive show car look.

Contact Steve Newing at

40,000 Bikers Promoters, Southern Cross Promotions have heen overwhelmed by the attendance to the inaugural Australian Motorcycle Expo held in Melbourne early September. The promoters have claimed 40,000 people attending the Expo over the three days.

Visitors were treated to displays of Extreme freestyle MotoX, Grand Prix Pocket

New for old

street legal, all weather, competition tyi-es for US muscle cars are now available in Australia. Since the styling of the Cobra replica’s.

Corvettes and older Mustangs do not suit the modern low profile performance tyres Stuckey Tyre Service is stocking the BF Goodrich Comp T/A Rl tyres which not only look the part on these cars but have performance characteristics.

28 September 2001

While the tyres may look like a blast from the past BF Goodrich have incorporated the latest t5rre construction technology and rubber compounds. Maximum grip and strength is achieved with the latest asymmetrical tread designs and inner-wall stiffeners. A choice of sizes is available including 225/60R15 and 255/60R15.

For more details or your latest stockist contact Stuckeys on 03 9386 5331.

EFI Hardware on 03 9873 5400.

Racers, Derbi scooter stunts and a Yamaha flame burning Quad display. A variety of new and custom bikes were on display as well as a huge range of accessories and motorbilie related products.

Plans are under way for the 2002 Expo. For more information on attending or exhibiting, contact Southern Cross Promotions by phoning 03 9974 6350 or visit ww.australianraotorcycleexpo.com

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Phone (02)9678 9977 www.rocket.au.com

Ph: 08 8363 5566

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PERFORMANCE & RACE DIFF GEARS & ACCESSORIES

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F*l-U-t*D

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Phone (07) 3808 1986

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Phone (07)3808 1986 Visit our website for your nearest distributor.

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Ph 03 9357 0469 or Fax 039357 0001 Visit our website: www.crowcams.com.au

The USA^s flirst shmm race valve springs new available in Australia ‘As used by top US teams including Hendricks Molorsport (NASCAR),John Force(Funny Car), Warren Johnson (Pro Stock) »Spedkc super duty spring design for endurance (circuit, speedway and marine)or Drag Race applications deliver consistent pressures and longer spring life.

Available from tho oxelusive Australian distributor

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^^The Tme Performance Alternative » Extremely durable bonded dampening material “ Easy to read computer etched timing MUnHKl marks J l Available in economical cast iron Street, ^^A jf! versatile iron/steel Street/Race and all ' steel SFi approved Race versions y Ph02 6921 5126 Fax 02 6921 7536 Visit out website www.precisionparts.com.au

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Manufacturers ft distributors of race r.

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Ph. 02 9758 1966

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Widow Maker Sp^ Shop 07 5491 M69

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Dynapack Ifynometer Service Centres

Phone (07) 3808 1986

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l Custom ground roller, solid and hydraulic profiles using unique computer controlled

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Where sealinq is a science

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BOND ROLL BARS FUEL SAFE AUSTRALIA . Roll Bars . Dry Brakes ° Fuel Cells FIA . V8 SuperCar Tanks ^ody Shells, for Rallying & Off-road 22 Carlington St Regents Park NSW 2143 Phone 02 9743 7005 Fax 02 9743 7610 Mobile 0410 637 005

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m race shop SuperFlow ekgine & chassis l

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57 TAUNTON DRIVE CHEUENHAH VIC 3192 TEL (03) 95S4 4499 FAX: (03) 9584 4008

Contact your state distributor...

Hardiman Auto SuppUe.s (02) 9771 5877 Motor.spart Connection.'t (02) 9838 7272 Victorian Speed Pro (03) 9794 5177 Performance \Vhote.sale (07) 3808 1986 Crane Technologies (08) 8363 5566 Cogear Racing Services (08) 9443 4400

We have dealers ir

m all states ● Kits and overhauls available ● High How intercoolers and kits ● Link engine management systems ● Oil coolers and oil coolers kits ● Silicon hoses and bends ● Tein suspension kits Ph 03 9584 4499 or (ax 03 9584 4008 Email avo@bigpond.com or check out our website www.avoturbo.com

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RCS - The new racing clutch system from Sachs ● 5,760 combinations possible ● torque range 300 ■ 1800 nm ● individual tuning to any vehicle Sachs Boge Australia Rty L.td Ph 02 9875 5388 Fax 02 9875 32M

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Ph 03 5339 SIS9 Fax 03 5339 2144

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Ph 03 9876 8S86 Fax 03 9879 7535 Mob 0407 365 414 Factory 3, 44 Charter Street, Ringwood 3 i 34 Email svomotorsport@bigpond.com.au Website www.svomotorsport.com

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Lazer car racing helmets FIA Approved suitable for all motorsport applications includin open wheel competition, fire proof lining, all new superseded^ stock, while stocks lasL n

if j monthly $605 in your car. Includes CAMS Mjf lecture and observed test.

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Dealer enquiries we/corn^ 4ny colour os long as it's white!

Bruce Collins Enterprises Rty Ltd 2/W Pilgrim Court Ringwood Vic 3134 V Ph 03 98Z3 2091 Fox 03 9873 2015

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W^OKOHAMA RACING AV#N TYRES

Distributors for Victoria and Tasmania Your high performance tyre and suspension specialists

This space could be yours motoisoed o«ws

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MARKET PLACE

SilFREE

Classifieds 2 issues

absolutelyfree*

*Motorsport News Classifieds are FREE for private sales. Classifieds from motor sport traders are accepted (marked with a ●) and must be prepaid at the following per issue rates: $5 per 10 words (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.

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.

Sedans/Sports Cars

some spare parts with car, log book. Red in colour. $7000 ono. Ph 0425 798 020.215

14, ■

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VX GTS Holden, GTP Class A, competitive car, ready to race 2002 GT Performance series. POA. Ph 0412 267 245. 216

Gemini Series Sedan, excellent steel cage, good tyres, good paint, little to finish. $2500 ono. Ph 07 3888 3203.216

Championship on September 28-30. Ph Peter 02 9642 2979 or 0410 734 191.216

App J Cortina Mk 1, two door, immaculate, totally adj front end, coil over, semi-adj rear end.

Fuel cell, complete spare race engine. Xtrac g/box, 3 spare g/boxes, diffs 3.9, 4.1, 4.4, 4.7 and 5.1.

New race seat and harness. 2 complete spare cars. Spare panels, 2 sets of rims and tyres. Too many spares to list. Car brand new. Can supply trailer. $15,000. Ph 02 4877 1507. 216

Mustang Appendix J Nc. bare shell rebuild. Best of everything. Proven race winner. POA. Ph Ross Donnelley 0409 666 302 or 02 9979 3122.216

Torana Sports Sedan, 202,5 speed, fast & reliable.

Eastern Ck 1.46.4, Oran Pk Sth 48.2s. Numerous spares include: 12 wheels, 2 spoilers, 1 diff, moulds, springs. Car is complete & ready to race. $10,000. Ph Michael 02 4732 5011 bh or 02 4731 1574 ah. 216

FX Holden Sports Sedan, CAMS log book from 1977. 350 Chev, drysumped, Webers, Carillos etc 530 bhp. All fibreglass panels with moulds. Close ratio top loader, triple plate 31 spline locker. 15 by 10 rims with 4 spots. Not raced since 1993.

Suit collector or Holden freak. $30,000. Ph 08 8250 1903 after hrs. 216

Super Tourer, TOM'S factory car. In the right hands, this car would be very competitive. Get set for the new summer season. All spares included, 2 motors etc. Will consider trade or payment program. Ph 0418 644 217. All genuine offers considered. 216 Commodore VL, rebuilt high performance 308, Aussie 4 speed, 9" locker diff. Simmons wheels, professionally prepared shell and cage. Excellent condition, suit Sports Sedan or Club Car. $9500 ono. Ph 02 4946 9554 or 0407 905 039. 216

Yep, another HQ race car! winner of 5 Australian Hillclimb class wins. Never beaten five years of competition. No expense spared, comes with fresh top HP engine, nothing to spend. Delivery assis tance. View at Mount Cotton Australian Hillclimb

BFMR 12/88 Mazda Familia 4WD turbo, Autronic SMC, anti-lag capable, log book, 1800GTX gearbox with viscous c/diff, height adjustable Pedders susp, VDO gauges. Many spares inc engine and wheels. 12 mths rego 9/2002. $8000. Ready to race. Ph Eric 0418 411 038. 21G Speedway car, brand new, never driven VK Commodore. Professionally built as modified or production sedan. Complete roller ready for final outside paint job. Bilstein shocks, revalued to suit.

King springs, adjustable suspension, front and rear.

Dueist harness and alloy seat and all other safety gear. Also, engine. Bored, balanced, decked etc, Tilton clutch and custom flywheel. Brand new cylin der head done by Rams Head Service in Sydney, (never used). Engine never assembled. Have new extractors etc. Only minor parts required to finish engine and car. Ph Craig 0412 694 408 or e-mail nroberts@austarnet.com.au. Sell complete or sepa rate. $7500 complete. Price negotiable. 216

V8 TOCA Touring Car, VS Commodore Championship winning car 2000/01. 5 out of 7 poles, no DNFs. No expense spared, built from new motor sport shell whith ail best new com ponents for 2000. All mechanicals freshened for 2001/02 c/ship, cambered rear end, pumps and coolers fitted. $64,900. Spares available.

Consider trade. Ph Tim Shaw 0408 755 855.215

AXJTORTTE *

Saloon Car, motor rebuilt July 2001, 2 meetings raced since, fastest qualifying Commodore at Caulder V8 round. Only Saloon car to appear in Australian Penthouse, August edition (true storyl) Very sexy carl. Nothing to spend for next season, must sell. $18 500 ono. Ph Nick 0418 833 628.2<t

Mazda RX7 Turbo, GTP Class A, competitive car, ready to race Bathurst or 2002 series. Large spares package available. $55,000. Ph 0412 267 245. 216

Saloon Car VN Commodore, fresh Swift Race engine, very competitive car. Spares include sealed gearbox and diff, wheels etc. $22,000. Ph 07 3893 2094 bh, 0419 739 068 or 07 3209 9006 ah. 215

XW Falcon, restored from ground up, 302 Windsor, C4 auto, two pak cardinal red paint, grey velour interior, 15" Cragar Supalite II, Kenwood stereo, car is in show condition. $15,500. Ph 07 3281 9346.215

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V8 Supercar, collector’s car. Perkins Engineering chassis 030. Last VS 1997 Bathurst winner and current lap record holder, finished 2nd 2000 Konica Championship, 11th Qld 500. Great Konica car, will run top 5 at less than half cost of VT. Easy maintenance and low cost repairs.

Available race ready, as raced, entered Konica Bathurst. Setup assistance available for new team. $115,000. Ph Matthew White 0417 558 452.215 1808 Sports Sedan, fuel injected L28, Autronic management system, wets and slicks, 260bhp,

6 litre Chev Capri, space frame, cambered rear, counter lever front, Harrop brakes, Libertybox, Cola crank, JE, H beam Eagles, alloy heads. Pro Series carb, 7th last round Aust championship, 2nd 2000 QLD c/ship, ultra reliable with heaps potential. 30ft enclosed trailer, sleeper and lounge included. $40,000. Ph Brett 07 4634 8562 ah or 07 4633 1807 bh. 215

Send us your classified ads and we’ll run them for FREE* Catesory: □ sedans □ open Wheelers □ Speedway DDrag □ Parts □ Engines □ Trailers □ Wanted □ Photographs □ Other.

Description:

Please keepads tonomorethan 30words,plusa photo if required.

-

Name: Address:, 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

Ph(

)

28 September 2001

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.

96

Saloon Car EA Falcon, quality build, no expense spared, Sparco wing seat and belts. Ready to race, nothing to spend. Trailer also available, if required.

Very fast, thousands under cost, with log book. $17,500. Ph 07 5546 6184 or 0418 700 483.215

brand new, must see to appreciate. Can supply trailer. $15,000. Ph 02 4877 1507. ns Street Sedan, VL Turbo Commodore, 5-speed manual. Bond Roll Cage, mags, new Yokohama tyres, new paintwork, Sparco race seat, Willans 6point harness, excellent condition. $12,000 ono.

Urgent sale. Ph 0421 997 688. 215

spare set of mounted wets, spare painted nose and moulds. More details available upon request.

Enclosed trailer also avail. Ph 02 9909 1144 or 0412 403 582.216

Porsche 944 Cabriolet, 3 It 968 Club Sport engine, 6 spd, Motec, carbon fibre panels, bladder tank, Brembo brakes, Azev wheels, slicks, mount ed wets, Sparco seats, Fitzgerald suspension and more. $65,000 ono. Ph 0411 052 944. 215

Bathurst 2001 opportunity, Commodore VS, ex Perkins 95 Bathurst winner, fully rebuilt including new Perkins Holden engine, complete ready for the Konica 30 lap race. PI Dash, lap top etc, usual spares list and pit gear. Turn up drive package available for purchaser for Bathurst 30 lap race.

Must be sold to make way for new project. $75,000. Ph 0413 139 811.215

Arrow K-2000 kart, with Rotax 125 MAX. Four meetings old with trailer. Forced sale. $5500 ono.

Ph 0402 212 562. 2i6

GT Performance Class A, HSV GTS 300kw Fully rebuilt, Motec M48 with Motec Dash. Two engines, two diffs, numerous wheels, big spares package. Ready to race and entered for Sandown 500, Bathurst and rest of championship. Best Presented, very competitive. P.O.A. Call Craig on 0407 724 862. 215

"i HjyET” ^1*

Ml

M Superkart, 250 National, Suzuki 5 spd, full Kelgate brake system, new Kevlar floorpan, many spares, log book. Ready to race. $3000. Ph Rob 03 9563 0977.216

Torana Sports Sedan, six cylinder Holden motor, Duggan head, Webers, 330+ HP, fresh rebuild. No expense spared, well maintained. Winner of Australian, NSW, Qld and SA Hillclimb Sports Sedan championships. $15,000. Ph 02 6331 9911. 215

Historic Milano GT 179, 1965 No.3 built, Group 0 Sports with COD. Very rare, trophy winning cir cuit and hillclimb car. Holden running gear, ready to race, stunning black and silver. Genuine enquiries. $65,000. Ph 02 4773 8817. 215

Commodore, $400. Ph Graeme 0407 367 480, Anne 0408 320 199 or 03 9746 1452 ah. 216

The Jack Wright Ford V8 Special, well known fast reliable historic racer, CAMS log book. Lb with certifi cate of description. Totally rebuilt and meticulously mainatained. This car will get you an invite to every thing. Will be competing at Eastern Creek Histories 8 and 9 September. $30,000. Ph 0418 751 585.21s 1986 86/50 Lola Formula 3000, stunning ex works car fitted with Mazda 12A rotary turbo. Full ground up rebuild. Ready to race. Many spares. £17,000 ono or px welcome. Donnie Mackillop {Scotland, UK) 0011 44 1360 440902 or email juliasquire@hotmail.com 215

AME (Japan) wheels, two 18" x 10JJ and two IS" X 9JJ suit 200SX or RX7 etc. Incl. Pirelli race tyres $2200. Tyres two 225 x 40 - 18" and 255 x 35 - 18', near new $1100. Ph 07 3325 0489.2te

Simmons custom rims (two), for Torana A9X, suit big calipers. 15" x 8JJ $550 each Ph 07 3325 0489.216 Gearbox, Holden 4 speed V8 close ratio. Very good condition. $350 ono. Ph 02 4877 1507.216 Rattle guns, 3 x Chicago pneumatic and hoses to suit lance and hose. $1650. Ph 08 8243 0259. 216 Calipers, Harrop 6 spot front, 4 spot rear, 6 races old. $7500. Ph 08 8243 0259.216 Getrag gearbox, Holinger gears, ex-DJR. $6000.

Ph 0417 979 226.215 RX7 Series 6, SP brakes, 4.3 diff centre, 4.1 diff rear end, high flow exhaust pipe and air box. Upgraded ECM, panels plus more. Ph 0407 648 072. 216

HZ Statesman, 383 Chev, turbo 400, disc brake 9", two pak grey metallic paint, velour interior, car restored from ground up. $20,000 or sell less engine and gearbox $13,000. Urgent sale, race car coming. Ph 07 3282 4334.215

Nissan Bluebird Sports Sedan, alloy space frame, mid-mount 2.2ltr 450hp, Motec M8, Sierra turbo, fibreglass shell + moulds, FI carbon or steel crossdrilled brakes, titanium bolts, works gearbox -t trail er + extras. Lightweight, fast, race winning. $25,000. Ph 0417 577 063.215

Morris Cooper S Mk 2, 1275cc, this 1970 model Cooper "S" was made toward the end of the pro duction in Australia. Resprayed but is still in the original jet red paint with black interior. Very orig inal and only needs new carpets and a bit of body touch up to bring it back to great condition.

Engine completely refurbished 5000km ago, full set of New Cooper gears were fitted along with many other new parts. Fitted with original drilled steel wheels. Reg. Vic OKO 550 12 months paid. $15,000 ono. Ph 03 5261 9715. 215

Historic Group Q Formula 2 1970, Ford engine, all mechanicals fresh, new tyres, car is ready to race. COD. $16,500. Ph 03 9870 5703 or 0403 131 304. 215 Superkart 250 Int, 96 T2 Yamaha 80hp engine and spare 80 hp engine prepared by Tony Sims, both engines have own pipes by Peter Warroll.

Stockman chassis, brakes & body work. Spares include barrels, heads, crank, pistons, gears and good assortment of all jets. 3 sets of wheels, 2 dry 1 wet, leathers color matched to kart, suit 5'10" and 85kg. Two kart trailer. Will separate & negoti ate. PDA. Ph 02 6766 4522. 21s Formula 3, professional team, UK experience, available to prepare, set-up and run your car or lease drives available. Ph 0411 052 944.215 Formula Ford, Kookaburra 91, complete with enclosed trailer and annex. Excellent condition with ratios and fresh engine. Must make way for new project. $16,500. Ph 07 3806 1463 ah. 215 Ralt RT4 81, complete minus engine. FT 200m stored for last 15 years. A$24,000. Ph 0011 64 9 274 8646 or fax 0011 64 9 274 8642.215 Formula Holden 90-91 wanted, would deal Brabham BTl 6.65.12. Lucas downdraft, MAE engine,

Datsun 1000 Coupe under 2-lltre Sports Sedan, purpose built - ex Alan Pitt, driven to vic tory by John Boston, fresh JTS A15, brand new close ratio gearbox, 5 Link rear end, x2 LSD'S (4.1:1 )&{4.6:1) New Autometer Gauges, new 3" 5 point Saebelt, Recaro Seat, brand new wets, mounted on brand new wheels. Best presented car in its class, lightest car in class, around 600kg's Ready for more victories in the right hands $11500. Also, reg dual axle car trailer $1200. Ph Marty on 0408 255 005.215 App J Cortina Mkl two door, immaculate, totally adj front end, coil over, semi adj rear end, fuel cell, complete spare race engine, Extrac gearbox, 3 spares g/boxes. Diffs 3.9, 4.1, 4.4, 4.7 and 5.1. New race seat and harness. 2 complete spare cars, spare panels, 2 sets rims and tyres. Too many spares to list. Car

96

Mini Group Nb, fresh top HP engine, SC/CR gear box, 5/C drop gears, ZF diff, all the best bits. Very tidy car and ready to race. $11,000. Ph 02 9905 5770.215

Open Wheelers

very orig car. Ex-Aust, race ready for Historic. Bargain value. A$45,000. Has chassis plate. Ph 0011 64 9 274 8646 or fax 0011 64 9 274 8642. ris

Paris Magneto schintilla set up, for 4 cy. Reco last 6 months. Surplus to requirements. $750 ono. Ph 0418 394 213.216

Chevron B29 1975, Historic Group Q with log book and C of D. Recently subject to a complete restoration to original specification and is in immaculate condition. Used once since. Top HP Cosworth BDD big valve engine, Hewland FT200,

Cylinder heads. Pro Action cast iron 23 degree raised runner, fully ported and complete inc rockers, pushrods studs. Flowed 660hp. Incl Super Victor man ifold, parts are new condition. Ph 0419 176 255. rie 4 X ROH Reflex rims, 15x7 Mazda stud pattern, includes slicks. $500 lot. 4 x ROH Reflex rims 15x7, $320, 4 X alum 14x7 Dunlop wets $500 lot, new cable operated blade swaybar to suit series 3 Mazda RX7 $400, 4 x AUSCAR rims, almost new

Simmons wheels,suit Ford. 16x8 Falcon or Fairlane, set of 4. As new, $850. Ph 02 9569 3843.215 Mk 9 gear ratios, 18:32. $95. Ph 07 3806 1465.21s Fuel injection, Hilborn, suit Windsor. $1500. Ph 0418 423 007.215 Radio two-way in car, complete with helmet gear and push to talk. EC, $1200. Seat Veld GP90. EC, $350. Ph 03 5227 5598.215 Drop Tank, for Ford Escort, 50 litre, aluminium foam filled, very good condition $350. Wheels, four 14‘ X 6" Performance (Minilite copies), 4 1/4" PCD, excellent condition, with part worn 195/60R14 Bridgestone Potenza RE520S tyres. $600. Historic Formula Ford Exhaust System, side exit with megaphone, very good condition 5150.

Ph: 08 9306 1851 or 0418 317 992.215 Mazda race spares, 13B J port race engine, fresh rebuild heaps of extras $3500, new extractors to suit 13B in RX2 $600, Needham 5 speed C/R 4 races old, exec cond $2000, 5.1 CW&P Exc Cond $900, new 4.85 CW&P $650, Mazda race LSD with spare new plate and disc $950. 51 IDA Weber $750, Racing Beat llOpsi Oil Regulator NEW $100. Ph Michael 0421 119 249. rts Avon Formula Ford tyres, best offers. Ph 07 3806 1465 or 0418 209 271. 215 e 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. CCI Ph 0418 925 767. l Pedals, brake/clutch, floor mount/hanging, new/sued. Also available, bias valves, bias cables, mas ter cylinders, reservoirs etc. CCI Ph 0418 925 767.

motorsport news

MARKETPLACE l Brake calipers, discs, pads, Mega range, new/used, exc condition - AP, Aicon, Brembo, Outiaw, Willwood. Overnight delivery. CCI Ph 0418 925 767. l Hewland, DGB, 5 speed transaxle, top condi tion, new 9:31 CWP, ratio choices and spares

Super Sedan EL XR8, fresh 4 bolt 350, steel crank, bowtie heads. Truscott carb, 3 link torque link rear, fresh q/c diff, coil overs. Good entry level car with potential. Good rubber, very reliable, spares. $8500.

Ph 0407 161 734 or 07 4045 0328.215

DGB, GFGB, TPT, FT200. CCI Ph 0418 925 767.

Series Prod Sedan Torana hatch, board rego, reco Yella Terra head. Watts link rear, spare diffs x 3, axles, g/box, wheels, panels, complete car. Good reliable car. $1800 ono. Ph Steve 02 4471 8148 ah. 215

l Oil coolers- heat exchangers, Earls, Setrab, Serck, 6-70 row, new/used, also used water to oil heat

Transporters/Trailers

available, $14K ratios, over 300 in stock to suit

Purpose-built enclosed trailer, suits open wheeler, single axle, four mag wheels with tyres, winch, fold down rear door with built-in ramps, also front and rear windows for see through tow ing. $3000 ono. Ph 02 4576 1222. 216 Scania 111 K transporter, 1981 bogie drive ridgid-built newn for Porsche Cars Aust, ex-Brad Jones and 3M, low kms, fast and economical. Ph JohnPengelly0418 820 338. r.t wiMk«

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l Racecar parts, brake parts, chassis stands, diff

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l Uprights, fabricated/cast, fronts/rears, various sizes, new/used, also CVs, driveshafts, wishbones,

Trailer, enclosed, fits 2 open wheelers plus storage.

5.5 metres x 2 metres high. Elect brakes, tyre racks, ramps, winch etc. $7500. Ph 03 9790 6204. 216

1992 Isuzu 3.9 turbo diesel, 10 speed, p-steer, air con, alloy body, concealed ramps, 185 litre tank, car rego/licence, fast, cheap way to transport your vehicle. $24,000. Ph 02 6662 2996 ah. 2i6

CAE Cageless Sprintcar, Chev with Hilborn injec tion. CAE dog box, Halibrand quickchange, knock off hubs $25,000. Also, Gardner Speedcar chassis 1976, low bar, cross torsion front and rear. $ 1500.

Ph Paul 07 5443 2348. 216 standard car tow bar enclosed tri-axle trailer, approx 2.5m width, 8.5m length, six wheel electric brakes, full length annex, benches, storage and tyre racks. Currently carries GTPcar. $16,500. Ph Kosi 0419 524 752. 2.6

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Hino 83 transporter, 5 metres x 2,2 metres wide. Pwr winch, ramps, side boxes, tyre racks, fully enclosed awning, bull bow, 170hp diesel, very quick. Only selling because I need a bigger one! $15,990. Ph 03 9790 6204. 216

COADs

Mitsubishi Dual Cab, with 27ft pan, tailgate lifter, Annex 240v 24v lighting etc. Air con, CD player, new turbo + clutch. 168,000 kms from new. $50,000. Ph 0417 390 371.215 Coach transporter, 37ft midmount, 250hp turbo Volvo, 4 speed, pre-selected gearbox, air brakes, tubeless tyres, excellent condition. $16,000. Ph 02 4730 3440 or 0419 989 010.215

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28 September 2001

Engines

Toyota 4AGZE (supercharged), 5 speed gearbox (RWD), computer intercoder, very good condition, 30,000kms. Must sell, going overseas. $1200 ono. Ph 02 4877 1507.216 13B PP rotary, 300hp, complete, 51mm down draught Weber carby, button clutch and lightened flywheel, electronic dist. $2990. Ph 03 9792 9526 bh or 03 9708 0992. 2i6 Cosworth alloy block, BDE, engine dismantled for inspection. Lucas fuel injection. Engine in excel lent condition. $25,000 ono. Ph 0427 082 256.216 Toyota 18RGU twin cam, no carbs, dissy $300.

Holden grey, ex-EK runner, complete $100, Escort Mkl 1300 Kent complete with gearbox $100. Ph 02 9793 2178.215 350 4 bolt 010, fresh engine complete with 12 to 1 forged pistons, new solid cam, lifters and springs, bowtie heads with stainless valves, roller rockers, steel crank, Vic Jnr with Truscett 850 Meth D/P, Gilmer belts, mech fuel pump, 1/4 Master 3 plate clutch, suit Super Sedan, 360 Sprintcar. $6500. Ph 07 4045 0328 or 0407 161 734.215

Tyre warmers, to suit minimum 17"x9" wheels.

240 volt or battery/power pack. Ph 0407 612 406.216 2 It Celica 1600cc motor, to suit Cheetah Ivik 6,

Mitsubishi FK415K 1985 van, race car transporter.

Enclosed car trailer, tri axle with electric brakes,

Hyd tailgate loader, 202,000kms, bull bar, long range tanks, roller doors each side and rear. 5.2m long, e/cond, reg Jan 2002 with RWC. $22,500. Ph Owen 03 5979 2833 bh, 03 5977 6455 ah or 0417 581 443. 216

internal lighting, generator, electric tail gate, tyre racks. Suitable for large sedan with plenty of space for equipment. 12mths rego in top cond. $12,000 ono Ph 0414 510 868.215

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Olher

originally developed by Motor Improvements, plus inlet, exhaust, bellhousing adaptor (Holinger), dry sump, nosecone, rear wing etc. Ph 02 9872 5134 (leave message), fax 02 9872 3031.216 Alloy wheels, to suit HQ/HZ/Chev stud pattern, 16x8. Ph Jim 0416 281 054.2.6 Enclosed go kart trailer, in reasonable condi tion, for under or around $1000. Ph 08 8725 8343, email: mud-rat@rat-n-roll.com 216

Australian Motor Racing Yearbooks, complete set including original 7 soft cover copies (25 books), excellent condition. $1800 ono. Also, The Great Race Books, complete set (21 books) excel lent condition. $1800 ono. Ph 02 9987 0330.216 ● Trailers, suit go karts, motorcycles or open wheelers. Any size, any colour. Aluminium body. Low floor, lift up or ramp rear door. Access doors both sides, delivery Australian wide. Model shown $3950, Ph 03 9359 9769. 216

Super Sedan, J.Pyne chassis and AU body kit inte rior, excellent condition. $2000 ono. Ph 02 4730 3440 or 0419 989 010.215

Mallala Konica round, photographs for sale of most V8s and Saloon Cars. Also a selection of photos from other categories. Ph 08 8634 5310. 215

Reasonable prices paid (ring after 6pm). Ph 07 4696 5191.2.6

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Speedcar, Jackson 1999 chassis, top hp Scat V4 all good gear, most near new. Comes with enclosed trailer ready to race, a bargain at only $25,000 negotiable. Ph Paul 02 4630 9481. 21s

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Bathurst Yearbooks, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94.

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Speedcar, Fontana Harris, ex-Brett Morris. New cylinder head, complete engine overhaul by Smith.

No expense spared, heaps of spares, wheels.

Includes open wheel trailer with tyre rack. $34,000. Ph 0411 218 603.2.5

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Wanted

Super Sedan Grand Prix, twin sealer, 383 Chev 600hp, a great business opportnuity, ready to go, few spares, price on application. Ph Peter 03 5176 1352 or 0418 134 174. 216

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Piioiographs

IP*

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rockers, pushrods, all top quality, exc condition.

CCI Ph 0418 925 767.

Speedway

MIG welder, Transmig 240 3 phase, good cond $750. Lathe, Nuttal Herbert belt drive, 4ft bed, 7-inch swing, 3 phase, rebuilt. $750. Ph 02 9793 2178.215 SusProgBD Suspension by Design, a proven 3 dimensional automotive suspension design pro gram used by major V8 Supercar teams. $275 inc GST. Demo available http://byoung.mtx.net or posted out on request. Ph 08 8298 5548.215

Race Transporter, 28ft Gooseneck fully lined & fitout for racecar. V8 Twincab Toyota Dyna, Gas, Reg, RW, will separate $25,000 ono. Ph 03 5940 2034 or 0418 109 976.216

oil pumps, exhaust collectors, fuel cell acces sories, oil filters, quickiift jacks, ratio boxes, radi ator caps, springs, spoilers, wings etc. CCI Ph 0418 925 767.

l Radiators, aluminium, new/used, single/dual pass, top quality, large range, various sizes, suit all applications, fr $300. CCI Ph 0418 925 767.

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exchangers, over 100 in stock. CCI Ph 0418 925 767.

Phillip Island accomodation, two storey townhouse available for Grand Prix rental. Walking dis tance to shops and eateries. Magnificent bay views.

Three bedrooms, sleeps eight. Enquiries ph 03 9523 9896 or 0419 441 188. 215

o Transporter, 28' x 8'x10' PAN, retractable ramps and winch. 240 & 12 volt, plenty of belly locker stor age, side door access, drives very well, reliable and economical, (wheel racks) and Hino's biggest 170 diesel. Ph: 0418 644 217. Best genuine offer. 21G

Bedford TK, 8 tonne banana back, restored vehi cle, new 300 motor and 5 speed, ideal trans porter, ex cond, ready to work. RWC. $6500 ono.

Ph 03 9762 9033.216 Live Telemetry, car to Pit/Transporter. Only for those who wish to move forward in the pack and can han dle the sophistication. $2000. Ph: 0414 274 369. ric Dorian timing transmitter, with charger and car rier. $400. Uniden handheld head set $400. Ph 03 5241 5562 or 0402 762 348.215 Anything HDT, shirts .hats, flags, etc. Please rail Wade 02 9826 7680 or e-mail: kiggins@bigpond.com.au 215 Australian Motor Racing Magazine collection, full set 1981-1985 (50 magazines). Good condi tion. $100. Ph 02 9987 0330.21s Automobile Yearbooks 14-34 (1966-1986), good condition. 1958, 1959, 1960,1963 no covers on these four books. $1800 the lot ono, Ph 02 9987 0330.215

Wanted, any information about history - previous ownere, log book -for this 1974 white and blue Mazda RX-3 Club Car recently bought in Exeter Tasmania (reg no RX 3774). Has 1994 CAMS sticker slating log book no T1073 and Symmons Plains scrutineer label. Please ph Zyg Ryter 02 9369 4828 or 0414 455 467. Fax 02 9386 9383 or email: zygi@hotmail.com. 215 Weber 45 wanted, single, twin or triple. Ph 0419 388 075 bh 03 9889 1149 ah or email: businessmedia@netlink.com.au 215 Drive wanted, Sydney-based youngster needing a drive in the 2002 NSW HQ series. Only get limited funds plus sponsorship. Ph 0414 401 500.

215

High-speed low cost Tfie book by Staniforth. Ph Alan 02 9674 1018.215

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OPINION

ntURDort EDITORIAL STAFF Editor: Phil Branagan Staff Journalist: Aaron Noonan Staff Journalist: Mark Glendenning

PRODUCTION Adv & Graphics Co-ordinator: Viv Brumby

ADVERTISIN6 Advertising Manager: Brendon Sheridan

ADMINISTRATION Managing Director: Chris Lambden

CONTACTS 89 Orrong Crescent North Caulfield Vic 3161 (PO Box 1010 North Caulfield Vic 3161) Ph: 03 9527 7744 Fax: 03 9527 7766 Email: msnews@02email.com.au

CONTRIBUTORS General: Grant Nicholas, Darryl Flack, Mark Jones, Jon Thomson FI; Joe Saward, Adam Cooper, Nick Garton 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 D Clark (USA) National: Mark Wicks, Sean Henshelwood, Michael Shaw Photographers: Sutton Motorsport Images, Dirk Klynsmith, Bothwell Photographic, Marshall Cass, Nigel Snowdon & Diana Burnett, AF1 Images, Neil Hammond, Slipstream Photographic, Phil Williams, Allsport, John Morris/Mpix, Frank Midgley, John Bosher, Lynley Reid, Mike Patrick (UK), Daniel Wilkins, Peter French, Chris Carter, James Smith, Paris Charles Artist: Bernie Walsh Cartoonist: Allan Schofield Motorsport News is published by Australasian Motorsport News - ABN 55 125 120 702 Publisher: C Lambden Printed by: PMP Print 37-49 Browns Road Clayton 3168.

Distributed by: NDD 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.

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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 msnews@02email.com.au

98

CAT’s man recovering I am writing to express my sincere thanks to everybody in the V8 Supercar community for their well wishes and gifts during my recent recovery from the pitlane accident at Oran Park.

Your thoughts certainly meant a great to deal to myself and Kevin May, and personally gave me a real boost during my recovery.

Unfortunately for myself, it will still be some time before 1 am back in active duty in pit lane but, at this stage, I do intend to at least be back in uniform at Bathurst.

While the level of support from the V8 Supercar paddock has been heartening, it has been very disappointing to read some of the comments in your publication regarding the pit-lane incident.

I know our team were certainly not at fault, but it appears, following the latest appeal, that the incident must have been down to a ‘racing incident’.

How a ‘racing incident’ can happen in the pits during a morning warm-up is quite astounding.

One thing I will agree on - a lot more needs to be done about pitlane safety. Any team which is not wearing helmets in pit lane is more than welcome to take a look at the x-rays of my head.

I look forward to seeing everybody at Bathurst - thanks again for all your support.

Neil Barton CAT Racing

Answer to air lines As a suggestion for a way to remove the air line booms from the pit area before a really bad accident occurs, has anyone given thought to the outer-wheel changers using a backpack arrangement to carry small air bottles to operate their rattle guns?

With modern technology and very strong lightweight materials available, it should not be too difficult for someone to design a unit capable of holding sufficient air pressure to change three or four wheels before requiring a re charge.

The balance of the wheel changer should not be a problem as the majority of these people kneel on at least one knee when doing their work.

What do others think ?

Brian Pendlebury brianandbev@optusnet.com.au

Funding, schmunding

I read with interest the letters of G. Bastin and Ross Cadell(MN #214) regarding AVESCO and the

converter handouts that the V8 Supercar mob are seeking from the various governments around the country.

I am a motorsport fan - have been for almost four decades - but I fail to see why, as taxpayers, we have to help prop up the likes of Cochrane and his overpaid, prima donna race drivers.

I can understand the WA Government subsidising the Rally.

It brings money to Australia fi'om overseas, huge amounts of money spent by the teams,journalists and, to a lesser extent, spectators, but it is still enormous amounts of foreign exchange which does Australia, and WA in particular, a lot of good.

Perth at Rally time means hotels are booked out, airhnes carry more people in from overseas and interstate, and restam'ants are bulging.

For the relatively small amount the government spends on the rally, it is a good return.

Subsidising a V8 Supercar race does very little for tourism, brings in next to nothing in foreign exchange, and would probably cost as much as the rally when the circuit costs etc are factored in.

My kid’s school has trouble getting budget from the government to keep the place in running order, but Mr. Cochrane wants wants vast Government

funding so he can attract more people to V8 Supercar races, and in so doing, put more money in his pocket and those of the well-heeled top teams.

Mt. Panorama flourished and improved gradually over the years because the AEDC ploughed money back into the place year after year. It has been five years since AVESCO split the AKDC and virtually sent them broke.

I haven’t seen AVESCO spend too much of the enormous revenue it must have generated with those alleged record crowds.

The Queensland 500 is a case in point- massive government subsidies to lure it from Victoria, but very few people travel fi-om interstate to watch it.

All but a few spectators are fi’om Queensland. Lets face it Willowbank is not exactly Tourist Central.

No, I reckon domestic motorsport should pay its own way.

I don’t mind paying for my tickets, and if you can’t make it work with good crowd numbers, strong TV rights fees and an increase in sponsorship then, Mr Cochrane, you should go back to organising rock concerts.

Bill Stokes rallyit@ihug.com.au

Thinking of Alex I am still in shock after hearing that Alex Zanardi has had to have both legs amputated.

After seeing the accident on TV, it made me feel sick. He is very lucky to be alive.

I was wondering if there is somewhere I can send my best wishes to Alex?

Danielle Clements Newstead, TAS MG:You’ll find the details you need in our special Zanardi feature on page 31 of this issue.

4 ‘ On the recovery trail: The two members of John Bowe's crew who were injured in the pitiane accident at the Oran Park SCS round are on the mend, but think that safety issues stili need to be addressed. Judging from Brian Pendiebury’s letter, several readers feel the same way.

(Photo by Bob Potts)

motorsport news

Telephone; 02 9609 7722 Facsimile: 02 9609 4466 Email; info@speedpKheers.eonfi.ati

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At this year’s Honda Indy 300,i*ds not just the Champ Cars that will give you butterflies.TFiere's the power of the VS Super Cars.Theair show and VS ute muster.The thunderous drag racing. The thrills and spills as the

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GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA 25-28 OCTOBER 2001