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Friday, February 26, 2010
Ragan, UPS win 2010 Daytona 500 Ad Showcase
Ragan, UPS win 2010 Daytona 500 Ad Showcase: "Jamie McMurray may have been the surprise champion of the 52nd running of the Daytona 500. Off the track and on the tube, it was David Ragan and UPS, a NASCAR partner known for its consistently entertaining commercials. UPS dominated the fifth annual Daytona 500 Ad Showcase, taking two of the top three spots in a fan vote on NASCAR.COM."
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
At Fontana, fifth place feels like a victory for Logano
At Fontana, fifth place feels like a victory for Logano: "Joey Logano did not relish the idea of coming back to Auto Club Speedway."
Monday, February 22, 2010
Notes: Junior's momentum slowed by mechanical snag
Notes: Junior's momentum slowed by mechanical snag: "Mechanical problems relegated Dale Earnhardt Jr. to a 32nd-place finish in Sunday's Auto Club 500, breaking the momentum of his second-place run in the season-opening Daytona 500."
ACS takes toll on engines during course of 500 miles
ACS takes toll on engines during course of 500 miles: "Shortly after climbing out of his No. 24 Chevrolet and discussing his strange Sunday briefly with crew chief Steve Letarte and a gaggle of other Hendrick Motorsports officials who were huddled in a small, serious group, driver Jeff Gordon was handed a very special package."
Sunday, February 21, 2010
2/21 :: Marco Andretti to compete at Le Mans
2/21 :: Marco Andretti to compete at Le Mans: "
Mario Andretti competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in four decades -- the last time in 2000.
Ten years later, an Andretti again will compete in the endurance sports car race in France. Marco Andretti, 22, will co-drive a Rebellion Racing LMP1 entry. Neel Jani and Nicolas Prost will be his teammates in the June 12-13 race (an off weekend for the IZOD IndyCar Series).
Mario Andretti and his son, Michael (owner of Andretti Autosport), teamed up for the frist time at Le Mans in 1983. Mario's nephew, John, joined th, finishing third. They were joined in the 1998 race by Mario's newphew, John Andretti.
Marco Andretti co-drove the Andretti Green Racing LMP2 car in three American Le Mans Series races in 2008. He will be behind the wheel of the No. 26 Venom Energy car Feb. 24-25 in the IZOD IndyCar Series Open Test at Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama.
"Johnson uses pit break to win again at Fontana
Johnson uses pit break to win again at Fontana: "Jimmie Johnson got a huge break on his last stop, getting on pit road only seconds before the caution flag came out, and held off a charging Kevin Harvick in the closing laps to win at California on Sunday."
Jerez day four - Button ends test on top
Jerez day four - Button ends test on top: "McLaren's Jenson Button leapt to the top of the timesheets, as this week's four-day test in Jerez drew to a close on Saturday. Button lapped the Spanish circuit in 1m 18.871s to finish over two-tenths of a second ahead of Robert Kubica in the Renault.
The British driver spent the day evaluating set-ups and assessing tyre durability in the MP4-25, and covered 108 laps. Kubica, meanwhile, completed 117 laps, as he carried out long runs in the R30..."
The British driver spent the day evaluating set-ups and assessing tyre durability in the MP4-25, and covered 108 laps. Kubica, meanwhile, completed 117 laps, as he carried out long runs in the R30..."
Q&A with Red Bull's Mark Webber
Q&A with Red Bull's Mark Webber: "Whilst his Red Bull team mate, Sebastian Vettel, spent Wednesday and Thursday dodging rain showers at Jerez, Mark Webber enjoyed a much drier day of work in the RB6 at the Spanish track on Friday. After setting the session's best time, Webber answered questions from the assembled media…"
Kolles in charge as Campos takeover confirmed
Kolles in charge as Campos takeover confirmed: "Doubts over the participation of Campos in the 2010 FIA Formula One World Championship faded on Friday with confirmation that existing shareholder Jose Ramon Carabante has taken a controlling stake in the new team, originally founded by ex-F1 driver Adrian Campos.
Spanish businessman Carabante has appointed former Force India boss Colin Kolles as team principal and says they fully expect to make their race debut in Bahrain next month..."
Spanish businessman Carabante has appointed former Force India boss Colin Kolles as team principal and says they fully expect to make their race debut in Bahrain next month..."
Jerez day three - advantage Webber and Red Bull in Spain
Jerez day three - advantage Webber and Red Bull in Spain: "The sun finally shone at Jerez on Friday, and the 11 teams in action at this week's test took full advantage of the calmer conditions at the Spanish circuit to rack up mileage in their 2010 cars. Mark Webber ended the day as the fastest runner for Red Bull, clocking a best time of 1m 19.299s in the RB6.
Second quickest was Fernando Alonso, who covered 132 laps in Ferrari's F10. Alonso carried out set-up work with a variety of fuel loads and tyres and will continue to test for the Italian team on Saturday. McLaren's Jenson Button finished in third after a fruitful day in the MP4-25, during which he completed 101 laps."
Second quickest was Fernando Alonso, who covered 132 laps in Ferrari's F10. Alonso carried out set-up work with a variety of fuel loads and tyres and will continue to test for the Italian team on Saturday. McLaren's Jenson Button finished in third after a fruitful day in the MP4-25, during which he completed 101 laps."
Q&A with Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel
Q&A with Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel: "With rain, thunderstorms and strong winds, the weather at Jerez this week has been dire, and the dry and consistent conditions that are so important to teams testing have been in very short supply at the Spanish track. But even though his running over the last few days has been limited, Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel is still feeling upbeat, and is pinning his hopes on a last push at next week's final pre-season test at Barcelona…"
Heikki Kovalainen Q&A: New Lotus has promise aplenty
Heikki Kovalainen Q&A: New Lotus has promise aplenty: "So far the Lotus T127's first test has been going pretty well. The reliability seems to be there and it was only the enthusiasm of driver Heikki Kovalainen that cut short their Thursday session at Jerez, after he spun the car into the barriers at the Spanish circuit.
With no spare nose available, Kovalainen was forced to wait until Friday to return to the track, but that didn't dampen the Finn's mood when it came to the T127's prospects…"
With no spare nose available, Kovalainen was forced to wait until Friday to return to the track, but that didn't dampen the Finn's mood when it came to the T127's prospects…"
2/21 :: Fantasy Racing prep
2/21 :: Fantasy Racing prep: "
Let the strategizing begin.
The PEAK Performance Fantasy Racing contest through IndyCar Nation brings together the excitement of weekly driver selections for the IZOD IndyCar Series' diverse schedule of race venues and the competition for great prizes. Maybe there's a smidge of pride in there, too.
Through the free season-long program that begins March 1, participants accumulate points based on their drivers' on-track performance. Contestants select five drivers for each of the 17 races in 2010, but they're allowed to select each driver a maximum of six times throughout the season. So go ahead and choose Scott Dixon or reigning series champion Dario Franchitti for the first six races of the season (four road/street course and two ovals). They'll be parked for the duration.
Once registered, participants may enter the contest by submitting a race-specific driver lineup. There also are public and private leagues participants can join - just for bragging rights, of course. So chat up your friends to start a league of your own or join a public league.
Register for IndyCar Nation HERE so you'll be all set when the PEAK Performance Fantasy Racing contest goes live March 1 for driver submissions for the inaugural Sao Paulo Indy 300 on March 14.
Click it: Printable 2010 IZOD IndyCar Series schedule
Oh, about the prizes for which participants will be aiming. The multi-faceted grand prize consists of a trip for the winner and guest to the IZOD IndyCar Series championship race Oct. 2 at Homestead-Miami Speedway, including:
• Round-trip airfare for two to Miami from the airport nearest the grand prize winner's residence.
• Hotel accommodations for two nights.
• Round-trip ground transportation while in Miami.
• Two grandstand tickets, two pit/garage passes, pace car ride, Indy Racing Experience two-seater ride on the 1.5-mile oval, two hospitality passes.
• Opportunity to present the PEAK Performance Pole Award.
• Replica of Peak Performance Pole Award signed by all pole winners from the 2010 season.
• Invitation to the season-end celebration banquet.
Wait! There's more.
Each weekly participant will be entered to win a Kymco scooter ($1,999 MSRP) at the end of the season, while an IZOD Vintage Indianapolis Motor Speedway Centennial T-shirt will be a weekly prize to one contestant.
So click HERE, register through IndyCar Nation and start planning your lineups.
"2/20 :: Sambodrome surprise
2/20 :: Sambodrome surprise: "
Caio de Carvalho, the president of São Paulo Tourism, knew the special guest's appearance would be dazzling. Still, the high-speed dash by Ana Beatriz in the Indy Racing Experience two-seater took him by surprise.
The Firestone Indy Lights driver and Brazil native made two runs on the Anhembi Sambodrome's concrete stage before the Champions' Parade of Carnival on Feb. 19 (the parade lasting until almost 6:30 a.m.), delighting spectators and even briefly overpowering revelers with the piercing sound of the 3.5-liter engine at full throttle.
The grandstands will be shaking when more than 20 IZOD IndyCar Series cars pass through the Sambodrome, which will be incorporated into the 2.6-mile, 11-turn circuit, in the season-opening São Paulo Indy 300 on March 14.
A smiling Carvalho greeted Beatriz, the only woman to win a Firestone Indy Lights race, after the promotion as the crowd of 30,000-plus was still abuzz.
A passenger during one of Beatriz's passes was TV Bandeirantes sportscaster and 1999 Miss Brazil Renata Fan, who reported live from the event. The parade, including the promotional two-seater runs, was broadcast live nationally as it culminated the weeklong celebration. The Champions' Parade features, of course, winners of various categories from the multiple samba school parades over the past week during Carnival.
Equipement for the trip to São Paulo will be loaded March 3-4 on two 747s in Indianapolis. IZOD IndyCar Series drivers and teams will prepare for the season, which features four consecutive street/road course events to kick off the 17-race campaign, during an Open Test on Feb. 24-25 at Barber Motorsports Park.
"Busch bests Biffle at ASC; Logano comes up empty
Busch bests Biffle at ASC; Logano comes up empty: "With a last-lap pass of Greg Biffle, Kyle Busch stole a win in the Stater Bros. 300 at Auto Club Speedway -- a victory that came at the expense of the race's dominant driver, Busch's teammate, Joey Logano."
Blaney and team score 'moral victory' at Fontana
Blaney and team score 'moral victory' at Fontana: "As Saturday's final practice for this Sunday's Auto Club 500 stretched toward its conclusion, Dave Blaney stretched out on the couch in his team's hauler."
Johnson and team back to business as usual at ACS
Johnson and team back to business as usual at ACS: "There isn't much that can cheer up a disappointed Jimmie Johnson as quickly as a trip to Auto Club Speedway."
Saturday, February 20, 2010
SS Green Light to give Eggleston three-race stint
SS Green Light to give Eggleston three-race stint: "SS Green Light Racing has announced that Chris Eggleston will drive the team's No. 21 truck in a minimum of three races in the Camping World Truck Series beginning at Martinsville Speedway on March 27."
Danica learning process continues out west in Fontana
Danica learning process continues out west in Fontana: "This weekend may mark the West Coast premiere of the 2010 NASCAR season, but it's also West Coast NASCAR premiere of Danica Patrick."
Bires ready to make first start in JR Motorsports' 88 car
Bires ready to make first start in JR Motorsports' 88 car: "A young driver is about to drive a JR Motorsports Chevrolet for the first time this year in the Nationwide Series."
McMurray's victory tour continues at Fontana
McMurray's victory tour continues at Fontana: "Jamie McMurray's extensive post-Daytona 500 victory tour finally came to an end Friday, and the driver was feeling the effects. Run down and with a sore throat, he went to the infield care center at Auto Club Speedway and was treated with an antibiotic. It's easy to understand why -- over the last four days he's been whisked from New York to San Francisco to Los Angeles, chatted with Dave and Regis, and shaken more hands than he can count."
Daytona champ McMurray earns pole in California
Daytona champ McMurray earns pole in California: "The wave of success Jamie McMurray rode from coast to coast hasn't broken yet."
Father-to-be Edwards still waiting on call, baby news
Father-to-be Edwards still waiting on call, baby news: "Carl Edwards' cell phone chimed, and all heads turned."
Need for 'spark' prompts Kenseth crew chief change
Need for 'spark' prompts Kenseth crew chief change: "Last November, after Matt Kenseth had missed the Chase for the first time in his career on NASCAR's premier series, car owner Jack Roush asked his driver if he was comfortable with the direction of his No. 17 team. Kenseth said yes, adding that he felt like crew chief Drew Blickensderfer needed a full season and a full offseason to turn the program around."
Daytona pothole still topic of discussion at Fontana
Daytona pothole still topic of discussion at Fontana: "It's nearly a week later and the Sprint Cup Series is roughly 2,469 miles removed from the pothole that threatened to swallow the season-opening Daytona 500."
Fontana an important race for Earnhardt Jr.'s season
Fontana an important race for Earnhardt Jr.'s season: "Dale Earnhardt Jr. had just finished second in the biggest stock car race in the world, but he sounded as if he had just gotten bad news from his veterinarian. Few smiles emerged from his car with him after the Daytona 500, and his appearance at the post-race news conference was about as joyful as a Swedish movie."
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Jerez day two - Barrichello puts Williams on top
Jerez day two - Barrichello puts Williams on top: "The 11 teams in action at this week's Jerez test endured another frustrating day on Thursday, as rain showers continued to blight their running at the Spanish circuit. Williams' Rubens Barrichello ended the session as the fastest driver after clocking a best time of 1m 27.145s in the FW32.
Although Barrichello's best lap was almost seven-tenths of a second quicker then the Renault of Vitaly Petrov in second, it was a over four seconds adrift of Sebastian Vettel's quickest time in the Red Bull on Wednesday. With the track wet for the most of the day, nobody covered 100 laps."
Although Barrichello's best lap was almost seven-tenths of a second quicker then the Renault of Vitaly Petrov in second, it was a over four seconds adrift of Sebastian Vettel's quickest time in the Red Bull on Wednesday. With the track wet for the most of the day, nobody covered 100 laps."
Exclusive Adrian Sutil Q&A - Force India could fight for podiums
Exclusive Adrian Sutil Q&A - Force India could fight for podiums: "Force India are definitely one of the dark horses for 2010. Given their impressive progress last year, and the fact that the top ten finishers will take points this season, Vijay Mallya's men could feasibly score at every race.
Adrian Sutil has seen the team go through many changes and believes now could indeed be the time for them to show their true colours. The aim is fifth in the constructors' championship and Sutil feels his first podium is on the cards…"
Adrian Sutil has seen the team go through many changes and believes now could indeed be the time for them to show their true colours. The aim is fifth in the constructors' championship and Sutil feels his first podium is on the cards…"
Jerez day one - Vettel sets test benchmark
Jerez day one - Vettel sets test benchmark: "Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel topped the timesheets as this week's four-day Jerez test began at the Spanish circuit on Wednesday. Vettel's best time, a 1m 22.593s, was just over four-tenths of a second faster than the quickest lap from second-placed runner Lewis Hamilton for McLaren.
The 11 teams in action spent the day dodging showers, as the poor weather that afflicted last week's running continued. Even so Vettel managed to complete 104 laps in the RB6..."
The 11 teams in action spent the day dodging showers, as the poor weather that afflicted last week's running continued. Even so Vettel managed to complete 104 laps in the RB6..."
Testing underway once more at Jerez
Testing underway once more at Jerez: "The third of four pre-season tests began on Wednesday morning at the Spanish circuit of Jerez. After wet weather limited running at the same track last week, the teams are no doubt hoping for a little sunny respite, but the forecast looks just as bleak and rainy for this week's four-day session.
One bright spot will be provided by Lotus, who will test for the first time amongst their rivals following the T127's launch in London last week..."
One bright spot will be provided by Lotus, who will test for the first time amongst their rivals following the T127's launch in London last week..."
'11 Shelby GT350 to pace Cup race at Las Vegas
'11 Shelby GT350 to pace Cup race at Las Vegas: "The 2011 Shelby GT350 will serve as the pace car for the Feb. 28 Shelby American Cup Series race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The race will be the public's first opportunity to see the vehicle and the first time for a Shelby GT350 to pace a NASCAR event. The 2011 Shelby GT350 is constructed by Shelby American."
Seeking new direction, Gordon changes agency
Seeking new direction, Gordon changes agency: "With an eye toward his future, Jeff Gordon is leaving IMG to chart a new course with Just Marketing International, a motorsports marketing agency in Indianapolis that has not been in the driver representation business."
Notes: Leffler hopes for better things in native California
Notes: Leffler hopes for better things in native California: "The 2010 NASCAR Nationwide Series season began last Saturday at Daytona International Speedway."
Daytona opener brings record number of viewership
Daytona opener brings record number of viewership: "With an average of more than 4.2 million people watching, ESPN2's live telecast of the Nationwide Series season-opening race from Daytona International Speedway on Feb. 13 set a record as the most-viewed Nationwide Series race ever on cable."
Reunited with Ganassi, McMurray eyes turnaround
Reunited with Ganassi, McMurray eyes turnaround: "A look at the top five drivers and five to watch in the Auto Club 500 (3 p.m. ET Sunday, FOX). All statistical references are for Cup Series races at Fontana unless otherwise indicated. Driver Rating is based on the past 10 races at the track."
Blickensderfer replaced as crew chief of No. 17 Ford
Blickensderfer replaced as crew chief of No. 17 Ford: "Todd Parrott has been named crew chief of Roush Fenway Racing's No. 17 Ford, effective immediately."
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Streaks tell the story for fantasy picks in Fontana
Streaks tell the story for fantasy picks in Fontana: "This week, we move from one of the most difficult races to handicap, to one of the easiest."
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
JR Motorsports' No. 88 lands two-race sponsor for Bires
JR Motorsports' No. 88 lands two-race sponsor for Bires: "JR Motorsports has added Suave Men to its sponsor lineup for 2010, further extending its partnership with Unilever, the brand's parent company."
Daytona Notebook: No baby news yet for Edwards
Daytona Notebook: No baby news yet for Edwards: "Carl Edwards always has his cell phone handy, given that wife Kate's due date for the couple's first child is Wednesday."
Lotus appoint deputy team principals
Lotus appoint deputy team principals: "Following the unveiling of their new car on Friday night, Lotus Racing have announced they have strengthened their senior management team, with two shareholders, S M Nasarudin and Dato' Kamarudin Meranun, joining team principal Tony Fernandes as his deputies.
“Our goals and objectives are clear but, as mentioned earlier, there is still a huge task at hand,” explained Fernandes. “We have 19 races to go through and, with the three of us assisting each other in our roles, we believe that the management has all the necessary resources to bring the team to the forefront.”"
“Our goals and objectives are clear but, as mentioned earlier, there is still a huge task at hand,” explained Fernandes. “We have 19 races to go through and, with the three of us assisting each other in our roles, we believe that the management has all the necessary resources to bring the team to the forefront.”"
Kubica: Renault already feels like home
Kubica: Renault already feels like home: "Robert Kubica may have spent the last four seasons at BMW Sauber, but he's already feeling settled in to his new team, Renault. Kubica, who joined the French team following BMW's withdrawal at the end of 2009, believes they all share the same aim of returning the outfit to the front of the field after three difficult seasons.
“It already feels like home and it's a nice group of people to work with,” the Polish driver told Renault's official site. “I had an idea of what Renault would be like before I joined and it has been just as I expected. The team is very motivated and looking forward to the big challenge we have ahead of us to bring Renault back to the front of the grid. Everybody is working hard.”"
“It already feels like home and it's a nice group of people to work with,” the Polish driver told Renault's official site. “I had an idea of what Renault would be like before I joined and it has been just as I expected. The team is very motivated and looking forward to the big challenge we have ahead of us to bring Renault back to the front of the grid. Everybody is working hard.”"
Exclusive Sebastian Vettel Q&A: The teams are very close out there
Exclusive Sebastian Vettel Q&A: The teams are very close out there: "He may have been hindered by the rainy conditions that dominated last week's four-day test at Jerez, and a few technical glitches, but Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel was well satisfied with his first outing in the RB6.
While Vettel admits that a lot could change in the run up to the season opener in Bahrain next month, and there's still a lot to discover about his competition, the young German feels that with enough hard work he could well have a car to put him in contention for the title…"
While Vettel admits that a lot could change in the run up to the season opener in Bahrain next month, and there's still a lot to discover about his competition, the young German feels that with enough hard work he could well have a car to put him in contention for the title…"
Team insight - Tony Fernandes and Mike Gascoyne on Lotus
Team insight - Tony Fernandes and Mike Gascoyne on Lotus: "Although many said it would be a near impossible feat in their projected timeframe, team principal Tony Fernandes and chief technical officer Mike Gascoyne have successfully brought the Lotus name back to Formula One racing and launched their new team. Of course there's a lot of work still to do, and ultimately the proof of their success will be judged by how they perform come March's season opener in Bahrain. But few would argue against Fernandes and Gascoyne being allowed to revel in their achievement for one evening. At the unveiling of the team's new T127 car the duo answered questions from the assembled media about how their plans came together and their hopes for this season and beyond..."
Monday, February 15, 2010
Exclusive Schumacher Q&A: This was a chance I couldn't resist
Exclusive Schumacher Q&A: This was a chance I couldn't resist: "Never say never again! The phrase may have been coined for James Bond, but the same also goes for a Formula One driver, especially when that driver is seven-time Formula One world champion Michael Schumacher.
Not just the most controversial man in F1 history, Schumacher, at 41 years-old, is also the oldest driver on the 2010 grid, with a full three years' absence from the sport to make up for. However, if his recent test times in the Mercedes count for anything, he's still the same as he always was..."
Not just the most controversial man in F1 history, Schumacher, at 41 years-old, is also the oldest driver on the 2010 grid, with a full three years' absence from the sport to make up for. However, if his recent test times in the Mercedes count for anything, he's still the same as he always was..."
Sadler, wife announce birth of their son on Monday
Sadler, wife announce birth of their son on Monday: "Elliott Sadler won the race with Carl Edwards to the birthing suite ... with Sadler announcing the birth of his son on Twitter."
MWR beaming with pride after top-10s at Daytona
MWR beaming with pride after top-10s at Daytona: "On Sunday night, in the aftermath of one of the most bizarre, and at the same time most thrilling Daytona 500s in years, Michael Waltrip's self-owned race car had barely stopped rolling and he was out of the car -- and the Sprint Cup garage area."
Harvick falls just short in bid to cap solid weekend
Harvick falls just short in bid to cap solid weekend: "Kevin Harvick sat up on the No. 29 pit box, next to his crew chief's wife and son, wearing a heavy coat to ward off the cold. His yellow race car sat on pit road, in first place during the second of two red flags called due to a hole that emerged in the Daytona International Speedway surface."
Johnson's start slowed by tire, axle damage in 500
Johnson's start slowed by tire, axle damage in 500: "For as many fast finishes as Jimmie Johnson has had in the past four years, he rarely seems to get off to a fast start. With a 35th-place finish Sunday, Johnson now has finished no better than 27th in Daytona 500s since winning it in 2006."
Drivers sound off on multiple G-W-C attempts
Drivers sound off on multiple G-W-C attempts: "Sunday's 52nd Daytona 500 was a bizarre race with a weird conclusion but for the most part, multiple attempts at a green-white-checkered finish met with competitors' approval -- regardless of the way their races ended."
Elledge gamble doesn't net win or top-10, but worth it
Elledge gamble doesn't net win or top-10, but worth it: "Your car is running 20th in the 2010 Daytona 500 with 35 laps to go. There's no way you can make it to the finish on the fuel left in the tank. But it's possible that because of track issues, the race may not go the entire 500-mile distance."
Petty steps back from racing to be with ill wife
Petty steps back from racing to be with ill wife: "Seven-time NASCAR champion Richard Petty has essentially taken a leave of absence from his race team since his wife was diagnosed with cancer."
McMurray holds off Junior to win the Daytona 500
McMurray holds off Junior to win the Daytona 500: "On Sunday afternoon -- and evening -- Jamie McMurray won the 52nd running of the Daytona 500: The Stock-Car Racing Miniseries in three parts."
Daytona 500 halted twice because of pothole in track
Daytona 500 halted twice because of pothole in track: "The comments made by Jimmie Johnson over the radio sounded ridiculous at first."
Notes: Wreck makes for a tough start for Penske cars
Notes: Wreck makes for a tough start for Penske cars: "Two of the three cars owned by Roger Penske wrecked in NASCAR's season-opening Daytona 500, although they both returned several laps down."
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Jerez day four - Hamilton and McLaren end on a high
Jerez day four - Hamilton and McLaren end on a high: "Lewis Hamilton clocked the fastest time of the week around Jerez on Saturday as the four-day test drew to a close in Spain. With the track dry for the majority of the day, the McLaren star set a best lap of 1m 19.533s late in the final hour, putting him over half a second clear of closest rival, Force India's Adrian Sutil."
Team insight - Tony Fernandes and Mike Gascoyne on Lotus
Team insight - Tony Fernandes and Mike Gascoyne on Lotus: "Although many said it would be a near impossible feat in their projected timeframe, team principal Tony Fernandes and chief technical officer Mike Gascoyne have successfully brought the Lotus name back to Formula One racing and launched their new team. Of course there's a lot of work still to do, and ultimately the proof of their success will be judged by how they perform come March's season opener in Bahrain. But few would argue against Fernandes and Gascoyne being allowed to revel in their achievement for one evening. At the unveiling of the team's new T127 car the duo answered questions from the assembled media about how their plans came together and their hopes for this season and beyond..."
Q&A with Lotus's Heikki Kovalainen and Jarno Trulli
Q&A with Lotus's Heikki Kovalainen and Jarno Trulli: "Following its shakedown at Silverstone earlier this week in the hands of test driver Fairuz Fauzy, the Lotus T127 was officially unveiled in London on Friday evening. Race drivers Heikki Kovalainen and Jarno Trulli give their thoughts on the new car and the season ahead…"
Lotus take the wraps off the T127
Lotus take the wraps off the T127: "The new Lotus team officially launched their 2010 car on Friday, as the Cosworth-powered T127 was unveiled in the UK. The Malaysian-backed squad, one of four new entrants this season, will put the legendary Lotus name back on the grid for the first time since 1994.
At the wheel of the green and yellow-liveried machine will be former Toyota star Jarno Trulli and ex-McLaren driver Heikki Kovalainen. Both were in attendance as the wraps came off their new charge in front of around 500 guests..."
At the wheel of the green and yellow-liveried machine will be former Toyota star Jarno Trulli and ex-McLaren driver Heikki Kovalainen. Both were in attendance as the wraps came off their new charge in front of around 500 guests..."
Peters holds off Bodine for Daytona Truck victory
Peters holds off Bodine for Daytona Truck victory: "With a last-lap pass of superspeedway ace Todd Bodine, Timothy Peters won Saturday night's NextEra Energy 250 Truck Series race at 2.5-mile Daytona International Speedway."
Busch finding his way in new ownership role
Busch finding his way in new ownership role: "Rick Ren wanted to see it in Kyle Busch's eyes."
Stewart wins Nationwide opener at Daytona ... again
Stewart wins Nationwide opener at Daytona ... again: "It was Tony Stewart's good fortune to lead much of Saturday's Drive4COPD 300 Nationwide Series race at Daytona International Speedway -- because all hell kept breaking loose behind him."
Penske's Keselowski, Hornish return after wreck
Penske's Keselowski, Hornish return after wreck: "Two of the three cars owned by Roger Penske wrecked in NASCAR's season-opening Daytona 500, although they both returned several laps down."
Window strip simple solution to airborne chassis
Window strip simple solution to airborne chassis: "The new 'shark fins' on the back of the Sprint Cup cars at Daytona International Speedway this season have nothing to do with the nearby Atlantic Ocean, or as a tribute to the cars that ran here in NASCAR's early years."
Will patience of the Duel extend to Daytona 500?
Will patience of the Duel extend to Daytona 500?: "They were furious finishes, each of them decided by a fraction of a second, with cars stacked high and deep charging to the line. And yet, there was something else evident in Thursday's qualifying races at Daytona International Speedway."
Labonte avoids disaster in uneventful final practice
Labonte avoids disaster in uneventful final practice: "Drivers had three rules in mind while heading for the track for Saturday morning's final Daytona 500 practice session: make sure the equipment is ready to go the distance, get the car to handle comfortably and don't hit anything."
Ambrose has eyes on the Chase as season begins
Ambrose has eyes on the Chase as season begins: "When he was racing V-8 Supercars in his native Australia and winning a couple championships, Marcos Ambrose was a bona fide, take-no-prisoners tough guy on the race track."
Back home, JPM's move struggling for acceptance
Back home, JPM's move struggling for acceptance: "A victory by Juan Montoya on Sunday afternoon would have implications far beyond the boundaries of Daytona International Speedway. Not only would the Colombian complete an unprecedented hat trick of the three biggest events in world auto racing, but he'd also become only the second foreign-born driver -- joining 1967 champion Mario Andretti -- to win the Great American Race."
Stewart irked Daytona 500 victory has eluded him
Stewart irked Daytona 500 victory has eluded him: "As it continued to pour buckets Friday afternoon outside the media center at Daytona International Speedway, Tony Stewart commented on his own 'bucket list.'"
2/14 :: What off-season?
2/14 :: What off-season?: "
At each IZOD IndyCar Series race, Honda Performance Development and technical partner Ilmor Engineering provide trackside support (an engineer for two cars), additional technical specialists, logistics support and management personnel.
Away from pit lane, Honda is involved in multiple IZOD IndyCar Series race sponsorships, while American Honda provides major advertising support. Honda also supplies the safety cars and trucks used in the series. Above, Helio Castroneves signs autographs and Dan Wheldon poses for a photo during an open house for HPD associates.
Click it: Check out the HPD Web site | Printable IZOD IndyCar Series schedule
As Honda Performance Development ramps up for the 17-race season, Development Division Manager Roger Griffiths fields a few questions about life in the off-season at the Santa Clarita, Calif., base.
Q: Relay what associates in the various Honda Performance Development departments and the engineering groups do during the mid-October to mid-February off-season?
A: We're actually quite busy this time of the year, but in ways you might not expect. One of the biggest projects we have right now is called 'program maintenance,' where we address issues that came up during 2009. Logistical problems, unanticipated expenses, areas where we can improve our efficiency and updating our data base are all included as we plan for 2010.
We're also working on some engineering programs, such as the installation of reverse gears for the season, and our ongoing work to develop a gear lockout so drivers can't pull out of their pit boxes with the fuel hose still attached. Finally, as you would expect, engines are being rebuilt and budgets prepared. And there's been a fair bit of testing going on this winter.'
Q: Is the full complement of 80-plus Indy V-8 engines overhauled so everyone starts fresh in 2010 or does the rebuild cycle carry over from year to year?
A: We're rebuilding engines as needed. Our peak 'demand' for engine rebuilds revolves around the Indianapolis 500. We ended the 2009 season with a bunch of fresh engines already race-ready and 'sitting on the shelf.' We aim to get a good head start on the engine builds prior to the start of the racing season, so we will have freshly rebuilt engines lined up and ready to go out the door.
Q: Could you take us through what a rebuild cycle entails?
A: Once the engine come back to us, the first step is to completely disassemble it, then thoroughly clean and inspect all parts. All components, right down to the fasteners, have an individual 'service life' that is continuously documented and updated. Many parts - piston rings, seals, valves, bearings, et cetera - are replaced with each rebuild. Other components are replaced as dictated by the amount of time they have been used. When their 'life' is up, they are replaced with new parts.
Once a rebuild is complete, the engines are run in and power-tested on one of our dynos to ensure that their performance is within our very narrow (plus or minus 1 percent) parameters prior to being assigned to a team and car.
Q: Are new materials ever tested in components to potentially make the engine unit lighter or even more wear-resistant?
A: Any new components or materials would first have to be thoroughly tested, which would necessarily raise costs in a time when we're in a pretty severe cost-cutting mode. So, at this point in time, with most likely just two more seasons of use, we consider the current 3.5-liter, normally aspirated engine to be just about fully developed.
Q: Has the target mileage between rebuilds been altered from 2009 to 2010?
A: We're going to continue to rebuild the engines after 1,400 to 1,600 miles of use in 2010. We've investigated extending the time between rebuilds to 2,000 miles, but that also would require significant R&D, including a lot of testing. Just as with trying new materials or components, the cost/benefit ratio doesn't add up with just the 2010 and 2011 seasons left for this engine.
What we have accomplished is a continuing reduction of costs to the teams through increased efficiencies. In 2006, our first year of supplying engines to the entire IndyCar Series field, the lease price per full-season entry was $1.3 million. Despite rising material costs and general inflation, we've been able to reduce that figure every year since, and for 2010, the full-season lease price will be $935,000.
"2/13 :: Viso to test with KV Racing Technology
2/13 :: Viso to test with KV Racing Technology: "
E.J. Viso will test with KV Racing Technology on Feb. 15 at Sebring International Raceway.
'E. J. is an outstanding driver,' KVRT general manager Mark Johnson said. 'We have been in discussions with him for several weeks about possibly joining KV Racing Technology for the 2010 IZOD IndyCar Series season. Testing him at Sebring seemed like the next logical step in that process.'
Viso, 24, spent the past two seasons competing for HVM Racing. Last year was a tough season for the native of Caracas, Venezuela. He competed in all 17 IndyCar Series events, earning a season-high seventh at Watkins Glen International. In 2008, his first season in the IndyCar Series, Viso had a solid season, contesting 15 races and earning five top-10 finishes including one top-five showing (improving 11 positions to finish fourth at St. Petersburg in his second race). He also led his first career IndyCar Series laps at St. Petersburg (12). Additionally, Viso competed in the Champ Car World Series finale in Long Beach placing ninth and finished sixth in the Nikon Indy 300 exhibition race in Australia both with HVM Racing.
'I want to thank Kevin Kalkhoven, Jimmy Vasser and Mark Johnson for the opportunity to test with KV Racing Technology. I would also like to thank my sponsors PDVSA, Herbalife, SBA Airlines and CANTV for their support,' Viso said. 'KVRT is an outstanding team and one that is very competitive. I look forward to showing them what I can do during the test and hopefully everything will go well so we can all move forward toward racing together in 2010.'
2/13 :: Fantasy Racing prep
2/13 :: Fantasy Racing prep: "
Let the strategizing begin.
The PEAK Performance Fantasy Racing contest through IndyCar Nation brings together the excitement of weekly driver selections for the IZOD IndyCar Series' diverse schedule of race venues and the competition for great prizes. Maybe there's a smidge of pride in there, too.
Through the free season-long program that begins March 1, participants accumulate points based on their drivers' on-track performance. Contestants select five drivers for each of the 17 races in 2010, but they're allowed to select each driver a maximum of six times throughout the season. So go ahead and choose Scott Dixon or reigning series champion Dario Franchitti for the first six races of the season (four road/street course and two ovals). They'll be parked for the duration.
Once registered, participants may enter the contest by submitting a race-specific driver lineup. There also are public and private leagues participants can join - just for bragging rights, of course. So chat up your friends to start a league of your own or join a public league.
Register for IndyCar Nation HERE so you'll be all set when the PEAK Performance Fantasy Racing contest goes live March 1 for driver submissions for the inaugural Sao Paulo Indy 300 on March 14.
Click it: Printable 2010 IZOD IndyCar Series schedule
Oh, about the prizes for which participants will be aiming. The multi-faceted grand prize consists of a trip for the winner and guest to the IZOD IndyCar Series championship race Oct. 2 at Homestead-Miami Speedway, including:
• Round-trip airfare for two to Miami from the airport nearest the grand prize winner's residence.
• Hotel accommodations for two nights.
• Round-trip ground transportation while in Miami.
• Two grandstand tickets, two pit/garage passes, pace car ride, Indy Racing Experience two-seater ride on the 1.5-mile oval, two hospitality passes.
• Opportunity to present the PEAK Performance Pole Award.
• Replica of Peak Performance Pole Award signed by all pole winners from the 2010 season.
• Invitation to the season-end celebration banquet.
Wait! There's more.
Each weekly participant will be entered to win a Kymco scooter ($1,999 MSRP) at the end of the season, while an IZOD Vintage Indianapolis Motor Speedway Centennial T-shirt will be a weekly prize to one contestant.
So click HERE, register through IndyCar Nation and start planning your lineups.
"Friday, February 12, 2010
Kansas Speedway moves ahead with gaming facility
Kansas Speedway moves ahead with gaming facility: "Kansas Entertainment and Kansas Speedway Development Corporation announced Friday they have received final approval under the Kansas Expanded Lottery Act to proceed with the development of a Hollywood-themed destination casino overlooking Turn 2 at Kansas Speedway."
Jerez day three - Alguersuari puts Toro Rosso top
Jerez day three - Alguersuari puts Toro Rosso top: "Toro Rosso's Jaime Alguersuari led the times in a rain-hit session at Jerez on Friday, as this week's four-day test continued in Spain. Algueruari's best lap of 1m 19.919s, set early on before the weather worsened, put him eight-tenths clear of BMW Sauber's Pedro de la Rosa..."
Mark Webber Q&A: Red Bull a good bet for Bahrain podium
Mark Webber Q&A: Red Bull a good bet for Bahrain podium: "There are many who believe Red Bull's Mark Webber could have been 2009 world champion had he not broken his leg during the winter break. This season looks like it may be shaping up to be an even tougher challenge for Webber, with Ferrari and McLaren determined to bounce back and Michael Schumacher returning with Mercedes.
According to the Australian, however, his RB6 is very much a frontrunner, as he explained exclusively to Formula1.com…"
According to the Australian, however, his RB6 is very much a frontrunner, as he explained exclusively to Formula1.com…"
Hornaday's 'vacation' means racing, winning
Hornaday's 'vacation' means racing, winning: "Since he claims his eyesight isn't good enough to get a real job, Ron Hornaday figures he might as well continue driving."
New runway commissioned
New runway commissioned: "(By Jim Morrill, jmorrill@charlotteobserver.com) "
NASCAR photographer has a decked-out restaurant
NASCAR photographer has a decked-out restaurant: "There's a T-shirt at DJ's Deck in Port Orange, Fla. that you really don't want."
Jenson Button Q&A: Tyres will need more TLC
Jenson Button Q&A: Tyres will need more TLC: "'Watch your rear' is the demand of the season - your rear tyres, that is. With the ban on refuelling meaning heavy fuel loads of up to 170 kilos at the start of a race in 2010, looking after your rubber could well make the difference between winning and losing. World champion Jenson Button is renowned for his ability to manage tyre wear, making him a hot contender for another title - especially as he has now remoulded the McLaren cockpit to his liking…"
Q&A with Ferrari's Fernando Alonso
Q&A with Ferrari's Fernando Alonso: "The Spanish fans have flocked to the Jerez track this week in their thousands to see their national hero, Fernando Alonso, test his new Ferrari. On Thursday Alonso was just a few laps shy of completing a race distance on one of his runs, and after pushing the F10 - and its tyres - to their absolute limits, he's feeling pretty confident…"
Exclusive Rubens Barrichello Q&A: Change is a good thing
Exclusive Rubens Barrichello Q&A: Change is a good thing: "Nico Robserg and Rubens Barrichello have swapped seats this season, with Rosberg moving to Mercedes (formerly Brawn) and Barrichello taking the German's seat at Williams. For both, the move means not just a new team but also a new engine, although it's Barrichello, in his Cosworth-powered FW32, who may have tougher task. However, the Brazilian is hopeful the engine supplier's three-year absence from Formula One racing has not dented his chances…"
2/12 :: Let the Games begin
2/12 :: Let the Games begin: "
IZOD IndyCar Series and Firestone Indy Lights drivers will spend the next 16 days preparing for the Open Test at Barber Motorsports Park (Feb. 24-26) and the upcoming racing season. At the same time, many will have their eyes on the competition of the XXI Olympic Winter Games that open Feb. 12 in Vancouver, British Columbia.
'I'm Canadian, so obviously, I have to watch hockey and cheer for Canada. It's almost a national duty,' said Firestone Indy Lights driver James Hinchcliffe, whose home country hosts the Games. 'I think every Canadian can remember where they were when the Canadians win the gold in hockey in 2002.'
Martin Plowman wasn't even born when England's Winter Olympic heroes Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean won the gold in Ice Dancing in 1984, but he did meet skijumper Eddie 'The Eagle' Edwards, who became a national hero in 1988 despite finishing last in both skijumping events.
'He lived near the area in England from where I'm from,' Plowman said. 'He gave me a skiing lesson, once.'
Ed Carpenter's Winter Olympic memories date to 1994 when his family sponsored bobsledder Bruce Rosselli, a native of Terre Haute, Ind., who was attempting to make the Lillehammer Games as driver of USA-2.
'Bruce didn't make it, but my parents went to Lillehammer and brought back a lot of cool stuff from the Olympics,' Carpenter said.' I still watch bobsledding and I like watching downhill skiing and it seems like I'm always forced to watch figure skating (with wife Heather), but bobsledding is still my favorite.'
Sarah Fisher prefers the Summer Olympics to the Winter Olympics, but it was the Salt Lake City Winter Olympics that also provided one of her favorite Olympic memories.
'In 2002, I was nominated to carry the torch through Indianapolis,' Fisher said. 'It was a really unique opportunity and very neat because of all the snow on the ground. The torch is on display in the lobby of our shop.'
"Young Guns look to shave record 500 miles of skin
Young Guns look to shave record 500 miles of skin: "Gillette has unveiled a unique race for its lineup of NASCAR stars -- the Gillette 500. The promotion, also known as the 'Great American Shave,' will pair the Gillette Young Guns in 'shave teams' of two in a challenge to see which team can encourage the most guys to join their team by shaving and then logging shaves on Gillette500.com."
Bodine brings stellar record to Daytona
Bodine brings stellar record to Daytona: "If history means anything, Todd Bodine is the favorite to win Friday's Truck Series season opener at Daytona International Speedway."
White gets first pole in Truck opener at Daytona
White gets first pole in Truck opener at Daytona: "Jason White took the pole position for Friday night's Camping World Truck series race at Daytona International Speedway."
Patrick good for NASCAR; now the 'job' really begins
Patrick good for NASCAR; now the 'job' really begins: "Nationwide Series driver Trevor Bayne sat behind a small table at Media Day last week at Daytona International Speedway, fielding questions from two or three reporters. Nearby, Danica Patrick was answering questions, too."
Thursday, February 11, 2010
No. 57 team member hit with indefinite suspension
No. 57 team member hit with indefinite suspension: "William Wheeler, a crew member for the No. 57 team in the Camping World Truck Series, has been indefinitely suspended from NASCAR for violating the sanctioning body's substance-abuse policy."
Ups and downs of the ins and outs of Duel qualifying
Ups and downs of the ins and outs of Duel qualifying: "Both of Thursday's Gatorade Duel 150 qualifying races for Sunday's Daytona 500 lived up to the old-school hype as the fortunes of the 18-car go-or-go-home group shifted in the final laps, in a pair of races that totaled the closest margin of victory in their 52-year history."
Which drivers to watch? Stars step up at Daytona
Which drivers to watch? Stars step up at Daytona: "A look at 10 drivers to watch in the Daytona 500 (1 p.m. ET Sunday, FOX), the first race of the 2010 Sprint Cup Series season. All statistical references are for Cup Series races at Daytona unless otherwise indicated. Driver Rating is based on the past 10 races at the track."
Jerez day two - Kobayashi fastest for BMW Sauber
Jerez day two - Kobayashi fastest for BMW Sauber: "BMW Sauber's Kamui Kobayashi stormed to the top of the Jerez timesheets in the dying moments of Thursday's session to push Toro Rosso's Sebastien Buemi into second place. Kobayashi's fastest lap of 1m 19.950s was just over seven-hundredths of a second quicker than Buemi's best effort, as this week's four-day test continued at the Spanish track.
With the weather much improved after a drizzly Wednesday, Kobayashi was able to cover 103 laps during the course of the day in the C29."
With the weather much improved after a drizzly Wednesday, Kobayashi was able to cover 103 laps during the course of the day in the C29."
Exclusive Sebastian Vettel Q&A: I can't wait for my turn
Exclusive Sebastian Vettel Q&A: I can't wait for my turn: "Sitting on the sidelines and watching his Red Bull team mate Mark Webber take the new RB6 out for its maiden run was no easy feat for Sebastian Vettel. While he patiently undertook hours of media work in the Jerez paddock, the glint in Vettel's eyes gave away just how eager he is to step into the cockpit and sample his new challenger for 2010. He'll finally have his chance on Friday, but until then all he can do is wait and wonder…"
New look Silverstone to host British Grand Prix
New look Silverstone to host British Grand Prix: "Silverstone have announced that this year's British Grand Prix will take place on the track's new 'arena' layout. The modified circuit has been approved by Formula One Management, and with building work set to finish in March, everything should be ready in time for race weekend on July 9-11.
Although the majority of Silverstone's iconic straights and high-speed corners have been retained, the revisions will see drivers turn right at Abbey, and instead of heading into Farm Straight, Bridge and Priory, will race back up towards Becketts before tackling the new 'Arena Complex'. Designed to create three new overtaking opportunities, the new section then rejoins the existing track at Brooklands."
Although the majority of Silverstone's iconic straights and high-speed corners have been retained, the revisions will see drivers turn right at Abbey, and instead of heading into Farm Straight, Bridge and Priory, will race back up towards Becketts before tackling the new 'Arena Complex'. Designed to create three new overtaking opportunities, the new section then rejoins the existing track at Brooklands."
Parts shortage brings Virgin test to a standstill
Parts shortage brings Virgin test to a standstill: "Virgin, one of four new teams joining the 2010 grid, will miss the rest of Thursday's test at Jerez because of a shortage of spare parts for their new car. The front wing of the VR-01 came off whilst Timo Glock was in action at the Spanish circuit this morning, and without suitable replacement parts, the squad will have to sit out the rest of the day's running.
“This morning we experienced a front wing mounting problem which caused the wing to come off the car at the beginning of a run,” explained Virgin's technical director, Nick Wirth. “The cause has already been identified. Unfortunately, we're missing one or two spare parts which will hopefully arrive this evening, so we won't be able to run for the rest of the day.”"
“This morning we experienced a front wing mounting problem which caused the wing to come off the car at the beginning of a run,” explained Virgin's technical director, Nick Wirth. “The cause has already been identified. Unfortunately, we're missing one or two spare parts which will hopefully arrive this evening, so we won't be able to run for the rest of the day.”"
Coming soon - the definitive Formula One documentary
Coming soon - the definitive Formula One documentary: "Production is underway of the definitive feature documentary on Formula One racing. Scheduled for cinema release in spring 2011, the new film will tell the story of the golden Grand Prix age and will include interviews with the sport's leading personalities, drivers, designers and engineers.
Featuring the most iconic F1 locations, from historic Monaco to the futuristic Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, the film is being produced by Exclusive Media Group's (EMG) documentary unit, Spitfire Documentary Films, along with Flat-Out Films and Diamond Docs..."
Featuring the most iconic F1 locations, from historic Monaco to the futuristic Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, the film is being produced by Exclusive Media Group's (EMG) documentary unit, Spitfire Documentary Films, along with Flat-Out Films and Diamond Docs..."
2/11 :: More items up for bid to help Haiti
2/11 :: More items up for bid to help Haiti: "
Race fans, teams and drivers from around the world continue to help the people of Haiti, as Indianapolis Motor Speedway online auctions have raised nearly $15,000 for American Red Cross relief efforts in the earthquake-ravaged nation.
Visit the auction site HERE.
All proceeds from the eBay auctions of racing memorabilia, which began Jan. 15, are being donated to Red Cross relief efforts for the devastating earthquake Jan. 12. Items are designated as part of the Haiti relief program.
Fans visiting Brickyard Authentics retail locations at the IMS Hall of Fame Museum and Indianapolis International Airport will receive a 20 percent savings on any purchase with a donation of $5 or more to the American Red Cross canisters located near the register. This program is valid at the retail stores only.
"2/11 :: Construction begins
2/11 :: Construction begins: "
Ah, the initial phase of construction of the 1.8-mile, 14-turn temporary street circuit is a tangible sign that the sixth Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg is only weeks away. Six weeks to be exact.
The installation of concrete block and fencing on Bayshore Drive at Demens Landing began Feb. 11 and workers will move south along Bayshore. Temporary street closure barricades and/or signage will be placed at the intersections of 1st Avenue South and Bayshore Drive and at 5th Avenue South and Bayshore Drive.
When construction is complete, the track will incorporate 20 million pounds of concrete and 44,000 feet of fencing - along with a section of airport runway.
Thinking about visiting sunny and warm St. Petersburg, Fla., the last week of March? Check out the ticket options and events for the race weekend featuring the IZOD IndyCar Series HERE.
"Drafting leads to trouble for Truck champions
Drafting leads to trouble for Truck champions: "Even the most experienced drivers know that Daytona International Speedway can jump up and bite you at a moment's notice. That was the case for two Truck Series champions during Thursday morning's practice."
Patrick fast in final practice for Nationwide Series debut
Patrick fast in final practice for Nationwide Series debut: "Danica Patrick has a very simple goal for her first NASCAR race."
Earnhardt, Martin have 500 front row locked down
Earnhardt, Martin have 500 front row locked down: "Mark Martin and Dale Earnhardt Jr. were the two fastest drivers this past Saturday on qualifying day for the Daytona 500, earning them guaranteed front-row status for the start of Sunday's event."
Bridgestone announce initial 2010 tyre allocations
Bridgestone announce initial 2010 tyre allocations: "Bridgestone, official tyre suppliers to the FIA Formula One World Championship, have announced the compound allocations of their dry-weather Potenza tyres for the first three rounds of the 2010 season.
This season will be the second with slick tyres, which made a return to Formula One racing last year after 11 years' absence from the sport. Changes for 2010 include a narrower front tyre and new constructions front and rear. All four dry compounds are modified from last year's and the ban on refuelling will heavily influence how they are used..."
This season will be the second with slick tyres, which made a return to Formula One racing last year after 11 years' absence from the sport. Changes for 2010 include a narrower front tyre and new constructions front and rear. All four dry compounds are modified from last year's and the ban on refuelling will heavily influence how they are used..."
Exclusive Interview with Red Bull's Christian Horner
Exclusive Interview with Red Bull's Christian Horner: "The drizzle in evidence for most of Wednesday at Jerez wasn't the ideal weather in which to debut their new car, but Red Bull are feeling pretty pleased with their RB6.
Team principal Christian Horner can certainly see a lot of potential in the Adrian Newey-penned challenger, especially as most of the field are running 2010 cars that have been heavily influenced by its predecessor, the RB5…"
Team principal Christian Horner can certainly see a lot of potential in the Adrian Newey-penned challenger, especially as most of the field are running 2010 cars that have been heavily influenced by its predecessor, the RB5…"
Jerez day one - Rosberg sets the pace at rainy test
Jerez day one - Rosberg sets the pace at rainy test: "It may have been forecast, but not one of the ten teams in action welcomed the wet weather that blighted the opening day of the second official pre-season test at Jerez on Wednesday. Mercedes GP's Nico Rosberg ended the day at the top of the timesheets with a best time of 1m 20.927s around the Spanish circuit.
Just over a tenth down on Rosberg was Sebastien Buemi who took the second slot for Toro Rosso. Third went to Williams' Nico Hulkenberg, who was also the most productive driver of the day after completing 118 laps in the FW32, whilst Ferrari's Fernando Alonso finished in fourth in the Italian team's F10."
Just over a tenth down on Rosberg was Sebastien Buemi who took the second slot for Toro Rosso. Third went to Williams' Nico Hulkenberg, who was also the most productive driver of the day after completing 118 laps in the FW32, whilst Ferrari's Fernando Alonso finished in fourth in the Italian team's F10."
Technical insight - Red Bull's Adrian Newey on the RB6
Technical insight - Red Bull's Adrian Newey on the RB6: "He may be famed for still designing his cars on a drawing board, but Red Bull's chief technical officer is also one of Formula One racing's most forward thinking designers. His RB5 was a sensation in 2009, clinching six victories over the course of the season, and Newey's now hoping his RB6 proves just as successful…"
2/10 :: DeltaWing unveiled
2/10 :: DeltaWing unveiled: "
CHICAGO - What's next? That's the phrase driving the masses, whether it's the iPad or clean technology. New is stale and even advertising new and improved has become passé.
The DeltaWing Racing Cars concept for the 2012 IZOD IndyCar Series chassis, introduced to the media at the Chicago Auto Show, is definitely next. In fact, its name was generated from the Greek for change.
Incorporated into a sleek silver package are front wheels much closer together (24 inches) than the present car, a wider rear track (70 inches) and single fin that replaces the inverted aerofoil. Juxtaposed to concepts released in the past week by Dallara Automobil and Swift Engineering, and Lola's written plan, there's no mistaking that DeltaWing is the more radical of the two design paths identified last summer by Indy Racing League president of competition and racing operations Brian Barnhart.
Click it: Additional photos | Simulation video
'Today marks a fundamental shift in how race fans and the general public will view all racing cars in the future; this is a game changer' DeltaWing CEO Dan Partel said. 'This radical prototype takes open-wheel racing to a new level from both an engineering standpoint and the overall spectator experience.'
DeltaWing chief technology officer Ben Bowlby, chief engineer for Chip Ganassi Racing and a former Lola chief designer, said by targeting reduced aerodynamic drag and lighter weight, the DeltaWing design would offer high performance on the racetrack with only half the engine power of its recent predecessors (increasing the fuel efficiency).
Bowlby said he expects to 'sell a complete car, including engine, for approximately $600,000.' It would be built in Indianapolis, though Bowlby said DeltaWing Racing Cars would not be a chassis manufacturer. It would create a platform that would encourage multiple manufacturers and suppliers to contribute.
'We are confident that this car will outperform the current generation IndyCar and do it in a more environmentally friendly way,' Partel said. 'Auto racing has always been a powerful marketing tool for propelling new technology into the hearts and minds of consumers. It is our goal to make participation in the series highly attractive to the automobile manufacturers as well as the fuel, technology, information and entertainment corporate sectors.'
Partel said he expects a prototype to be available for on-track testing in August.
'Today's unveiling gives us four exciting and competing concepts for the IZOD IndyCar Series,' said Barnhart, who was joined at the unveiling by Indy Racing League CEO Randy Bernard, league commercial division president Terry Angstadt, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corporation CEO Jeffrey Belskus and league vice president of marketing John Lewis. 'Each raises different challenges and each offers new direction.'
Since 2007, Indy Racing League officials have entertained presentations - including fully funded projects by students at the Art Center of Design in Pasadena, Calif., and the College for Creative Studies in Detroit - geared toward the next generation of chassis for the IZOD IndyCar Series. For months, the sanctioning body has been in discussions with DeltaWing, Dallara, Lola and Swift Engineering about designing, manufacturing and supplying the new chassis to replace the Dallara introduced in 2003.
'Each raises different challenges, and each offers new direction,' Barnhart said. 'As always, the safety of our drivers, crews and spectators is the No. 1 priority. Other factors the league has laid out are cost and economic viability, raceable, American made, less mass/more efficient, relevant technology, modern look and green. Each of the four will be evaluated using these criteria.
'We are excited by the challenge before us and now begins the process to work through each of the four contenders to decide on the program that best serves the long-term interest of the sport.'
Graham Rahal, among several IZOD IndyCar Series drives and team owners attending the launch, looked at the DeltaWing from multiple angles and attempted to mentally picture himself behind the wheel at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
'The design is revolutionary,' said Rahal, 21. 'We have never seen an open-wheel racing car that looks like this. Is it going to be newsworthy? Yes. Is it going to catch eyeballs? Yes. Plus, there's good space for sponsors on it.
'From a driver's point of view, from all the simulations I've heard about, the performance of the car is not going to be a concern at all.'
Said Dreyer & Reinbold Racing co-owner and former IZOD IndyCar Series driver Robbie Buhl: "From the team owner side of things, as we look to the future we have to get things in line with what the cost is to compete here. And if we can do that, it's going to open us up to a lot more people being a part of this business, and that opens up to a greater fan base, too."
Going to the show? Stop by the Chicagoland Speedway booth at the Chicago Auto Show to see the GoDaddy.com IZOD IndyCar Series show car amd get tickets for the PEAK Antifreeze Indy 300 at the track.
"2/10 :: DeltaWing unveiled
2/10 :: DeltaWing unveiled: "
CHICAGO - What's next? That's the phrase driving the masses, whether it's the iTablet or clean technology. New is stale and even advertising new and improved has become passé.
The DeltaWing concept for the 2012 IZOD IndyCar Series chassis, introduced to the media at the Chicago Auto Show, is definitely next. In fact, its name was generated from the Greek for change.
Incorporated into a sleek silver package are front wheels much closer together than the present car and a wider rear and a single fin. Juxtaposed to concepts released in the past week by Dallara Automobil and Swift Engineering, and Lola's written plan, there's no mistaking that DeltaWing is the more radical of the two design paths identified last summer by Indy Racing League president of competition and racing operations Brian Barnhart.
'Today marks a fundamental shift in how race fans and the general public will view all racing cars in the future; this is a game changer' DeltaWing CEO Dan Partel said. 'This radical prototype takes open-wheel racing to a new level from both an engineering standpoint and the overall spectator experience.'
DeltaWing chief technology officer Ben Bowlby, chief engineer for Chip Ganassi Racing and a former Lola chief designer, said by targeting reduced aerodynamic drag and lighter weight, the DeltaWing design would offer high performance on the racetrack with only half the engine power of its recent predecessors (increasing the fuel efficiency).
'We are confident that this car will outperform the current generation IndyCar and
do it in a more environmentally friendly way,' Partel said. 'Auto racing has always
been a powerful marketing tool for propelling new technology into the hearts and
minds of consumers. It is our goal to make participation in the series highly attractive to the automobile manufacturers as well as the fuel, technology, information and entertainment corporate sectors.'
Partel said he expects a prototype to be available for on-track testing in August.
'Today's unveiling gives us four exciting and competing concepts for the IZOD IndyCar Series,' said Barnhart, who was joined at the unveiling by Indy Racing League CEO Randy Bernard, league commercial division president Terry Angstadt, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corporation CEO Jeffrey Belskus and league vice president of marketing John Lewis. 'Each raises different challenges and each offers new direction.'
Since 2007, Indy Racing League officials have entertained presentations - including fully funded projects by students at the Art Center of Design in Pasadena, Calif., and the College for Creative Studies in Detroit - geared toward the next generation of chassis for the IZOD IndyCar Series. For months, the sanctioning body has been in discussions with DeltaWing, Dallara, Lola and Swift Engineering about designing, manufacturing and supplying the new chassis to replace the Dallara chassis introduced in 2003.
'Each raises different challenges, and each offers new direction,' Barnhart said. 'As always, the safety of our drivers, crews and spectators is the No. 1 priority. Other factors the league has laid out are cost and economic viability, raceable, American made, less mass/more efficient, relevant technology, modern look and green. Each of the four will be evaluated using these criteria.
'We are excited by the challenge before us and now begins the process to work through each of the four contenders to decide on the program that best serves the long-term interest of the sport.'
"Notes: Nationwide gearing up for an exciting season
Notes: Nationwide gearing up for an exciting season: "Has there been a more anticipated Nationwide Series season than this one?"
Stenhouse, Braun look to continue Roush rookie trend
Stenhouse, Braun look to continue Roush rookie trend: "Roush Fenway dueling rookies Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Colin Braun will each spend the 2010 Nationwide season battling for the Raybestos Rookie of the Year Award. Both will vie to become the 12th Roush Fenway driver to bring home the coveted award in one of NASCAR's three major series and the fifth Roush Fenway driver to win the award in the Nationwide Series."
Plenty of places to tee it up before the Daytona 500
Plenty of places to tee it up before the Daytona 500: "Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines!"
Miss Sprint Cup adds two newcomers to the fold
Miss Sprint Cup adds two newcomers to the fold: "Sprint on Wednesday introduced the 2010 Miss Sprint Cup lineup to the media, as well as fans who follow the program via social media, during Speedweeks in Daytona Beach, Fla."
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
TRG, RCR form alliance for cars, chassis, testing in '10
TRG, RCR form alliance for cars, chassis, testing in '10: "TRG Motorsports now has a strategic alliance with Richard Childress Racing for its 2010 Sprint Cup Series program."
Teams regroup for Jerez test
Teams regroup for Jerez test: "With March's Bahrain Grand Prix just 30 days away, on-track preparations for the 2010 season step up this week, as the second official Formula One test of the year gets underway at Jerez on Wednesday. Ten teams are expected in action for the four-day session at the Spanish circuit.
Following its online launch on Tuesday, Force India's new VJM03 will enjoy its maiden public run on Wednesday, with driver Vitantonio Liuzzi behind the wheel. Liuzzi will drive for two days before handing over the car to team mate Adrian Sutil, who'll be in action on Friday and Saturday."
Following its online launch on Tuesday, Force India's new VJM03 will enjoy its maiden public run on Wednesday, with driver Vitantonio Liuzzi behind the wheel. Liuzzi will drive for two days before handing over the car to team mate Adrian Sutil, who'll be in action on Friday and Saturday."
Red Bull roll out the RB6 at Jerez
Red Bull roll out the RB6 at Jerez: "One of the most eagerly-awaited of the 2010 cars was unveiled on Wednesday, as Red Bull revealed their RB6 at Spain's Jerez circuit, where the year's second pre-season test is getting underway.
Following their six Grand Prix wins of 2009, which powered the team to second place in the constructors' championship, Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber will again be at the wheel of the Adrian Newey-designed challenger..."
Following their six Grand Prix wins of 2009, which powered the team to second place in the constructors' championship, Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber will again be at the wheel of the Adrian Newey-designed challenger..."
2/10 :: Spoiler alert
2/10 :: Spoiler alert: "
Andretti Autosport's Danica Patrick appear in the Feb. 10 (10 p.m. ET) episode of 'CSI: NY' on CBS as an open-wheel racing driver who is the top competitor of a racing star who dies under suspicious circumstances. Here's hoping she's not typecast ala Bob Denver (Gilligan).
Click it: Watch the episode trailer
Antonio Sabato Jr. plays the driver who dies in a car explosion on the streets of Manhattan two days before a race as the result of car tampering. The CSI team investigates.
The series is a crime drama inspired by 'CSI: Crime Scene Investigation' and is about forensic investigators who use high-tech science to follow the evidence and solve crimes in the Big Apple. 'CSI: Miami, 'NCIS' and 'NCIS: LA' also are CBS shows of a similar vein.
A few days earlier, Patrick was featured in GoDaddy.com commercials aired during Super Bowl XLIV on CBS (the most-watched TV program in history).
Patrick will participate in the IZOD IndyCar Series Open Test on Feb. 24-26 at Barber Motorsports Park. The season opens March 14 with the São Paulo Indy 300 on the streets of the Brazilian city.
"Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Best Daytona 500 finish: No. 4 - Harvick, Martin '07
Best Daytona 500 finish: No. 4 - Harvick, Martin '07: "This is the second installment in a five-part series on some of the best Daytona 500 finishes in the history of the Great American Race. Finishes were chosen based on the drama they created -- and the historical value that resulted."
Technical insight - Force India's Mark Smith on the VJM03
Technical insight - Force India's Mark Smith on the VJM03: "Force India's design director Mark Smith discusses the team's 2010 car, reflects on how this year's rule changes have influenced the VJM03's design, and contemplates the challenges ahead…
Q: Last winter Force India had to deal with a relatively late change of engine supplier and the switch to a McLaren gearbox. How much smoother have things been this time around?
Mark Smith: It's been a lot smoother. From the very beginning we designed the VJM03 in full knowledge of the engine and gearbox that we would be using for 2010, which gave us a significant advantage by comparison with respect to the same point in design time for VJM02. Fundamentally,"
Q: Last winter Force India had to deal with a relatively late change of engine supplier and the switch to a McLaren gearbox. How much smoother have things been this time around?
Mark Smith: It's been a lot smoother. From the very beginning we designed the VJM03 in full knowledge of the engine and gearbox that we would be using for 2010, which gave us a significant advantage by comparison with respect to the same point in design time for VJM02. Fundamentally,"
Nemechek lands sponsor for season-opening race
Nemechek lands sponsor for season-opening race: "NEMCO Motorsports has sighed D.A.B. Constructors Inc. as primary sponsor of driver Joe Nemechek's No. 87 Chevrolet for the Nationwide Series season opener Saturday at Daytona International Speedway."
Stewart to host radio show from Daytona on Thursday
Stewart to host radio show from Daytona on Thursday: "Two-time Cup Series champion Tony Stewart will host a special edition of Tony Stewart Live from the IMAX Theater inside the Daytona 500 Experience at Daytona International Speedway at 6:30 p.m. ET Thursday."
Cassill back in Truck Series with ThorSport Racing
Cassill back in Truck Series with ThorSport Racing: "Hendrick Motorsports development driver Landon Cassill will drive a Chevrolet Silverado with Hendrick power for ThorSport Racing in the Camping World Truck Series opener Friday night at Daytona International Speedway."
Heluva Good! to sponsor Busch's truck at Daytona
Heluva Good! to sponsor Busch's truck at Daytona: "Kyle Busch, who has more than 60 wins throughout NASCAR's top three divisions, will be sponsored by Heluva Good! brand real sour cream dips, cheeses and condiments in the Feb. 12 NextEra Energy Resources 250 Truck Series race at Daytona."
Hamlin won't let torn ACL faze him inside the car
Hamlin won't let torn ACL faze him inside the car: "If Denny Hamlin's learned anything in four years in the Cup Series, it might be the predatory nature -- the law of the jungle -- that rules: Don't show weakness or you'll get eaten alive."
Q&A with Force India's Sutil and Liuzzi
Q&A with Force India's Sutil and Liuzzi: "Force India racers Adrian Sutil and Vitantonio Liuzzi discuss the team's new car and their prospects for the coming season…
Q: Adrian, 2009 was a transitional year for the team, and you scored your best result in F1 to date. How would you sum up the year?
Adrian Sutil: 2009 was a really important year. I was very close to scoring points in a lot of races and, frustratingly, something always happened. So when we got to Monza, it was a pretty perfect weekend. I scored my first front row, my first points since 2007 and it gave me a lot of extra confidence. I was very happy when the success came"
Q: Adrian, 2009 was a transitional year for the team, and you scored your best result in F1 to date. How would you sum up the year?
Adrian Sutil: 2009 was a really important year. I was very close to scoring points in a lot of races and, frustratingly, something always happened. So when we got to Monza, it was a pretty perfect weekend. I scored my first front row, my first points since 2007 and it gave me a lot of extra confidence. I was very happy when the success came"
Force India reveal VJM03 in online launch
Force India reveal VJM03 in online launch: "Force India have become the latest team to present the car with which they will compete in the 2010 FIA Formula One World Championship. The VJM03, which will be raced by the unchanged driver line-up of Adrian Sutil and Vitantonio Liuzzi this season, was unveiled online on Tuesday morning.
The team may have made a name for themselves last season, scoring their first pole position, points and podium, but they are hoping their new Mercedes-engined car will power them to even greater things in 2010..."
The team may have made a name for themselves last season, scoring their first pole position, points and podium, but they are hoping their new Mercedes-engined car will power them to even greater things in 2010..."
Monday, February 8, 2010
Simple Minds and Powderfinger to rock Australian Grand Prix
Simple Minds and Powderfinger to rock Australian Grand Prix: "Legendary Scottish group Simple Minds and one of Australia's greatest rock bands, Powderfinger, are to perform special concerts in Melbourne's Albert Park during March's Australian Grand Prix weekend. The shows, which will be free to all ticket holders, follow in the footsteps of previous post-race concerts by Kiss and The Who in 2007 and 2009 respectively.
Powderfinger, whose latest multi-platinum album, Golden Rule, took the trophy for 'best album' at the inaugural Rolling Stone awards in January, will take to the stage on Saturday night, whilst Simple Minds, who have sold more than 40 million albums worldwide since 1979, will play a one-off concert on Sunday night after the race."
Powderfinger, whose latest multi-platinum album, Golden Rule, took the trophy for 'best album' at the inaugural Rolling Stone awards in January, will take to the stage on Saturday night, whilst Simple Minds, who have sold more than 40 million albums worldwide since 1979, will play a one-off concert on Sunday night after the race."
Exclusive Sebastien Buemi Q&A: I'm better prepared for 2010
Exclusive Sebastien Buemi Q&A: I'm better prepared for 2010: "The fact that Toro Rosso beat their senior team Red Bull to the test track at the opening Valencia session raised more than a few eyebrows up and down the pit lane last week. Whilst Red Bull focused on last-minute wind tunnel work with their RB6, the Faenza-based squad decided to test the new STR5 on the circuit.
Driver Sebastien Buemi couldn't have agreed more with his team's hands-on approach and here he gives his verdict on his new car…"
Driver Sebastien Buemi couldn't have agreed more with his team's hands-on approach and here he gives his verdict on his new car…"
Eight new employees join the Hall of Fame roster
Eight new employees join the Hall of Fame roster: "The NASCAR Hall of Fame recently added eight employees for the 150,000-square-foot interactive, entertainment attraction set to open May 11, 2010 in Charlotte, N.C."
Best Daytona 500 finish: No. 5 - Dale vs. Dale in '93
Best Daytona 500 finish: No. 5 - Dale vs. Dale in '93: "This is the first installment in a five-part series on some of the best Daytona 500 finishes in the history of the Great American Race. Finishes were chosen based on the drama they created -- and the historical value that resulted."
MIS to donate more than $6,600 for Haiti relief
MIS to donate more than $6,600 for Haiti relief: "With the help of generous race fans, Michigan International Speedway's charitable arm -- MIS Cares -- will donate $6,651 for the Haiti relief effort."
Wise joins Specialty Racing for '10 Nationwide season
Wise joins Specialty Racing for '10 Nationwide season: "Josh Wise, a former champion in the USAC National Sprint Car Series and the USAC National Midget Series, has signed with Nationwide Series team Specialty Racing. He will compete in all 35 races in the No. 61 Ford."
Despite a successful 2009, Ask.com leaves NASCAR
Despite a successful 2009, Ask.com leaves NASCAR: "This time a year ago, Ask.com was preparing to make the splash of the season at Daytona. It had a custom-made motor coach, pretty girls dressed in red and white to act as Ask Ambassadors throughout the speedway, and up to 30 new 15-second ad spots."
2/08 :: Swift's proposals
2/08 :: Swift's proposals: "
Officials of the Indy Racing League have been in ongoing discussions with Dallara Automobili, DeltaWing, Lola and Swift Engineering about designing, manufacturing and supplying the IZOD IndyCar Series chassis scheduled to hit the racetrack for the 2012 season.
Swift Engineering, Lola, Dallara and DeltaWing have provided design concepts based on the league's objectives. Dallara released images of its concepts Feb. 5 and Swift Engineering's are above. The DeltaWing project will be unveiled to the media Feb. 10 at the Chicago Auto Show.
Click it: Indy Racing League's objectives for the next chassis
San Clemente, Calif.-based Swift Engineering provided this news release:
American race car company Swift Engineering, Inc. is proud to announce key motorsport partnerships with industry-leading companies to further its bid to design and build the next generation race car chassis for the 2012 IZOD IndyCar Series.
"Given Swift is the leading U.S. race car design and manufacturing company and our 27‐year history was founded in motorsport, it is only natural that we aspire to partner with the nations' premier open‐wheel formula, the IZOD IndyCar Series," Jan Wesley Refsdal, Swift's president, said.
Key business alliances have been cemented between Swift and Cray Inc. (The Supercomputer Company), Indianapolis‐based Mark One Composites, Inc. and Cruden America, world leaders in motion racing simulators.
'Individually, each one of these partnerships is critical to Swift's continuing commitment to motorsport; however, collectively and in conjunction with one another they will help us set new industry standards in innovative design, manufacturing and support,' Refsdal stated.
Swift's strategic industry partnerships were carefully selected and cultivated through a focused effort to realize the challenge the IZOD IndyCar Series has set for its next generation car.
Cray supercomputers will be used at Swift's facility to further enhance its capabilities in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), an important tool in the design and development of aerodynamic concepts. In conjunction with Swift's existing on‐site wind tunnel designs will be tested in accurate virtual models allowing for valuable driver feedback and performance data collection on Cruden's state‐of‐the‐art 3Ctr 6‐DOF motion racing simulator which is soon to be operational at Swift.
"Speed‐to‐market is critical in any business, but probably more so in racing as the green flag doesn't wait for anyone," Refsdal said. "Rapid development is just as much about the speed and quality of the design process as it is manufacturing. We are evolving our four‐year exclusive certified composite repair relationship with Mark One Composites, Inc. to provide further manufacturing and inventory support directly to teams from its Indianapolis‐based facility."
Swift is currently developing a detailed value proposition with finalized performance data and conceptual designs for IndyCar's consideration.
"Red Horse tabs Piquet Jr. for Daytona Truck race
Red Horse tabs Piquet Jr. for Daytona Truck race: "Red Horse Racing announced Monday that Nelson Piquet Jr. will drive the No. 1 Toyota in the 2010 Camping World Truck Series season opener at Daytona."
GameStop renews its sponsorship with JGR
GameStop renews its sponsorship with JGR: "GameStop Corporation announced Monday it has extended its sponsorship with Joe Gibbs Racing through the 2010 Nationwide season. Joey Logano will drive the No. 20 GameStop Toyota in 21 Nationwide events, beginning with the season-opening race at Daytona on Feb. 13."
Danica to race Daytona after successful ARCA race
Danica to race Daytona after successful ARCA race: "Danica Patrick will make her Nationwide Series debut in the No. 7 Chevrolet Saturday at Daytona, JR Motorsports general manager Kelley Earnhardt announced Monday."
2/08 :: 'I liked what I saw'
2/08 :: 'I liked what I saw': "
In the past three weeks, Justin Wilson:
• Hastily returned to his Colorado home from the Indy Racing League preseason meetings in Indianapolis to be present for the birth of his second daughter.
• Co-drove a Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates Daytona Prototype to a runner-up finish in the Rolex 24 At Daytona.
• Kicked some tires at the Dreyer & Reinbold Racing shop and decided that's the team he'd wanted to join forces with for the 2010 IZOD IndyCar Series season.
'I'm ready to catch up on some sleep,' the affable Brit said.
Click it: Dreyer & Reinbold Racing news conference video
Wilson, who presented Dale Coyne with his first open-wheel racing victory last July at Watkins Glen International and finished ninth in the championship standings, has moved to the No. 22 Dreyer & Reinbold Racing entry with primary backing from Z-Line Designs.
"I looked around and met the people. I was really impressed," Wilson said. "Speaking with (general manager and competition director) Larry Curry and (co-owners) Dennis (Reinbold) and Robbie (Buhl), I liked what I saw and the progress they'd made over the off‑season. That's when it really started to come together.
'We just worked it out from there. It came together over the last two weeks.'
Wilson recorded seven top-10 finishes and led three races - including 49 laps in the Watkins Glen victory -- in '09 with Dale Coyne Racing. Other highlights included third place in the opener at St. Petersburg and carrying momentum from The Glen with a fifth place a week later at Toronto. In 2008, Wilson entered the IZOD IndyCar Series with Newman/Haas/Lanigan Racing (won at Belle Isle among seven top-10 finishes).
'It was a pretty tough call to leave Dale and move on with my career,' said Wilson, 31. 'That's not an easy decision. I just got to thank Dale and Gail (Coyne) for everything they've done. It was a great year. I have really fond memories. I've spoken to Dale a few times and we still get along really well, which is nice. I've got a lot of admiration for him.
"It was just a great opportunity (to go to D&RR) and I feel like this is the direction to go. Obviously, Z‑Line had presented that. They've got an agency that was looking for them to see what was available and it just progressed. I was pretty shocked that I'd get this opportunity. But I'm very pleased to be driving the Z‑Line Designs car again, and driving for this team, and the IZOD IndyCar Series."
Wilson will partner with Mike Conway, who enters his second IZOD IndyCar Series season in the No. 24 car (high finish of third at Infineon Raceway in August) for Dreyer & Reinbold Racing's first full-season two-car team.
'I did have some good teammates last year,' Conway said. 'It was just the case of they weren't always there the same weekend, we'd been changing so often. But it's great to have Justin on board. I know he's a great talent. And I think we can both bring a lot to the table and really move the team forward and get some good results.'
Buhl, who posted a victory for Dreyer & Reinbold Racing in its initial race in 2000 at Walt Disney World Speedway, expects both to progress while working with the team that has invested in personnel and testing.
'In this business, as you grow as a race entity, you can have your flashes of brilliance and you have big highs and lows,' he said. 'But how you really grow and strive is you want to be consistently in the game week in and week out. That is the challenge.
"With having the capabilities of Mike and Justin, that puts us in that position to go in every weekend with that mind-set. I think this is really going to transition Dreyer & Reinbold Racing to a place that we've been striving to be."
"Q&A with BMW Sauber's Willy Rampf
Q&A with BMW Sauber's Willy Rampf: "BMW Sauber drivers Pedro de la Rosa and Kamui Kobayashi racked up exactly 1,001 kilometres in the first test of the 2010 season in Valencia, Spain, last week, with the team's new car showing some encouraging pace. Technical director Willy Rampf gives his initial verdict…"
Virgin declare VR-01 shakedown a success
Virgin declare VR-01 shakedown a success: "In a few days' time Virgin Racing will pit their 2010 car against those of their rivals at this week's Jerez test, becoming the first of this year's four new teams to debut their car alongside the more experienced squads. But thanks to a productive shakedown at Silverstone last week, the team are feeling confident that their VR-01 can more than hold its own.
“Our shakedown provided our very first opportunity to work together as a trackside operation..."
“Our shakedown provided our very first opportunity to work together as a trackside operation..."
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Busch loses Miccosukee as sponsor but presses on
Busch loses Miccosukee as sponsor but presses on: "New Camping World Truck Series owner Kyle Busch plans to race two trucks for the full 2010 season, which begins Friday at Daytona International Speedway, despite losing his truck's primary sponsor on Thursday."
Saturday, February 6, 2010
2/06 :: Penske donation to help Haitians
2/06 :: Penske donation to help Haitians: "
Penske Corporation and its family of companies announced that it has donated more than $1 million worth of diesel-powered flatbed trucks to the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund.
'I'm pleased the Penske Corporation has stepped up to donate more than $1 million worth of trucks, which will be instrumental in mobilizing food and lifesaving supplies in Haiti,' former President Bill Clinton said. 'Their generous contribution is an example of what the private sector can do to help Haiti rebuild and recover from the massive earthquake, and I'm grateful for their leadership.'
Said Roger Penske, chairman of Penske Corporation and an IZOD IndyCar Series team owner: 'These trucks will assist in the humanitarian relief efforts in Haiti by facilitating the distribution of critical supplies that will help ease the suffering of the Haitian people.'
Harvick shines in second consecutive Shootout win
Harvick shines in second consecutive Shootout win: "Kevin Harvick has won the Budweiser Shootout for the second consecutive season, blowing past Greg Biffle in the exhibition race."
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