KENT, Wash. — (Feb. 28, 2011) PGP’s Rental Kart Race Series Winter-Spring Series reached the halfway point this past weekend, with dry but bitterly cold conditions welcoming the drivers. Running the fourth of the seven round series, the championship fight is starting to take shape in both the Novice and Expert categories.
The Expert Class has seen some of the best drivers to ever run in PGP’s rental karts, many who also run in the B-Spec rental kart class during Stars of PGP Karting Series events. This weekend was no exception, with the racing on track some of the best seen all season.
As he is nearly every time he’s on course, Maurice Shawver was again the dominant force in the Expert Class, winning both the pre-final and final races in commanding fashion. Shawver isn’t racing for points in the RKRS, however, so the attention of spectators was directed further back in the field to the two primary championship contenders in the class, Paul Robertson and Shawn Tracy.
Although they have battled back and forth throughout the series, Robertson held a slight advantage over Tracy going into Saturday’s event. But this round Tracy was able to find a bit more on the track, finishing a strong second in the final behind Shawver and two spots ahead of Robertson in fourth. Mario Ayers, a Stars of PGP Kart Series regular, finished third and on the podium after dueling with Tracy and Robertson throughout the morning.
Adding to what has already been an exciting show to watch, the entry list in the Novice Class swelled a bit this round as Daniel Robertson, brother of Paul Robertson, celebrated his birthday by taking to the track with a few friends. While the early sessions were dominated by RKRS regulars Bryan Raymond and Nick South, who are also embroiled in a tight championship fight, a pair of new faces grabbed the top two steps of the podium.
Visiting from San Jose, Calif., car racer Albert Correria ran in the top three all day and when the title contenders faltered he found himself fighting for the win with his brother, Jesse Correria. Although the siblings were very evenly matched — crossing the finish line side-by-side — Albert took the win by just .2 of a second. Recovering from issues early in the race, South salvaged some points for the championship fight by battling back to finish third.
The RKRS takes a break this Saturday, but many of the drivers will take part in the Rental Kart Class during Sunday’s Stars of PGP Karting Series Winter Season Finale. Round 5 of the RKRS will be held the morning of March 12, with practice starting at 9 a.m. Round 6 will be March 26 and the finale is slated for April 2.
On the Web
Visit www.pacificgp.com, become a fan of “Pacific Grand Prix” on Facebook or follow @pacificgp on Twitter.
About PGP Motorsports Park
PGP Motorsports Park is the Northwest’s premier multi-purpose racing facility and is located in close proximity to the greater Seattle metropolitan area. Named “Best Guys Weekend Destination” for 2010 in the KING 5 Evening Magazine Best of Western Washington contest, the track is easy to get to and inexpensive to utilize, making PGP a rare combination of top-level racing excitement and affordability. For more information on PGP events and services, visit www.pacificgp.com or call (253) 639-7223.
PGP Motorsports media contact
Paul Zalud, (206) 390-9858, paul@pacificgp.com
Monday, February 28, 2011
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Thompson Makes 100th Career NASCAR K&N Pro Series Start Memorable
Thompson qualified his Jerome Truck Center Chevrolet in the 17th position in the 36-car field. Thompson's game plan was to take it easy and just ride around until about 30-laps to go then get after it. But like most game plans; they often change once the action begins.
Thompson used the early laps to let the field spread out and he quickly found his rhythm. The action during the first 30 laps was slowed twice for two separate incidents allowing the field to bunch back up. During the second caution period on lap 28 while running in the 11th position, Thompson pitted for fuel but opted to not take on tires figuring he would have an opportunity later in the event.
Thompson restarted in the 18th position and quickly asserted his RTTI Chevrolet into the fray and moved to within sight of the top ten when the next caution flew on lap 38. While riding around under caution, Jim Inglebright moved alongside Thompson and signaled that he had a left front tire going down. Thompson quickly pitted and changed both left side tires and then returned the following lap to change right side tires.
The move set Thompson up with the freshest tires of any of the front runners, but he would have his work cut out for himself as he was mired back in the 20th position. Over the next ten laps, Thompson quickly dispatched several cars and moved into the ninth position on lap 58.
By lap 65, Thompson had managed to make one more pass but found the going a bit more challenging as the entire top ten were racing side-by side nearly every lap.
At lap 71, Thompson had moved into the fifth position, exactly where he wanted to be to close out the race. Over the closing laps he got as high as third but a final caution on lap 90 would set up a seven lap dash to the finish after the field took the green flag on lap 93.
Thompson. Jonathon Gomez, Ty Dillon, and Derek Thorn were all chasing race leader Greg Pursley and on the final restart, Thorn missed a shift allowing Gomez to sneak to the inside and stacking up Thompson and Dillon behind. They all sorted out their machines and over the final three laps the trio wrestled for positions with Thompson crossing the finish line in fifth.
"We are really happy with the finish," Thompson said. "We have always had good cars here at Phoenix but miserable luck during the race. We did not have the speed in qualifying but we knew we had a car that could race really well. Charlie Wilson (crew chief) and all the guys did an awesome job on the pit stops and with the setup. This finish pumped us all up!"
The turning point in the race for Thompson was getting a hand from Inglebright. "Jim is a great competitor and when he let us know the tire was going down we were able to duck down pit road without having to make another lap," Thompson explained. "That made the difference. Since we were already at the tail of the lead lap we opted to come back down and change right side tires giving us one the fastest cars late in the race."
"We rolled the car into the hauler just like we unloaded it; without a scratch. We are all thrilled with the finish and cannot wait until All American."
The next event for the Thompson Motorsports team is Saturday, April 16 at All American Speedway in Roseville, CA. Thompson did not compete in the two races at All American last season but had finishes of 15th and 6th in 2009.
Brett Thompson has started 100 races in NKNPS scoring one win, one pole award, 21 top five and 57 top ten performances. Thompson's best Phoenix finish in his 16 previous starts are a pair of fourth place finishes (04, 08). His fifth place finish Thursday positions him perfectly for a title run in 2011.
Thompson Motorsports is a premier motorsports organization based in Jerome, Idaho providing complete race car preparation and fabrication supporting the local grassroots racer and experienced professional drivers. TMS fields cars in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, NASCAR K&N Pro Series, CarbonX Rocky Mountain Challenge Series, Intermountain Pro Truck Series, and entries at local area short tracks. TMS has corporate partnerships with Rich Thompson Trucking Inc. (RTTI), Jerome Truck Center, Ron's Rear Ends, United Oil, VaCom Technologies, Windmill Inn and Suites, and Speedbear. For all the latest news and information about Brett Thompson and Thompson Motorsports, log onto www.brettthompsonracing.com.
Friday, February 25, 2011
PGP’S AFFORDABLE, FUN RENTAL KART SERIES BACK IN ACTION SATURDAY
KENT, Wash. — (Feb. 25, 2011) Tired of risking your life, your car and an insurance premium rate hike while trying to get from Point A to Point B this glorious Western Washington winter? Looking for something fun and exciting but with none of the risk to you or your wallet?
The solution is easy, and you can start this Saturday: PGP’s Rental Kart Racing Series!
We know you LOVE to race, but can’t always afford to fully indulge that desire by owning your own kart. So, you show up ready to experience the thrill of racing and PGP provides the rest — the kart, fuel, tires, helmet and a state-of-the-art venue. Never raced a kart before? Don’t worry about that, either, because the Novice class is specifically designed for first-time and beginning racers.
Whether you’re in the Novice or Expert Class, you’ll get plenty of track time as each Rental Kart Racing Series event follows PGP’s standard raceday format, with two Practice Sessions, a Heat Race, a Semi-Final and Final. That’s right: five on-track sessions in one day!
All racing at PGP is rain or shine — rental kart racing in the rain is insanely fun, by the way — and the warming hut will be open for all events. Cost per event is $85 for members, $95 for non-members. All competitors are invited to bring munchies and beverages for socializing and getting know your fellow racers after each event.
The remaining events scheduled for this round of the Rental Kart Racing Series are:
Round 4 — Saturday, Feb. 26
Round 5 — Saturday, March 12
Round 6 — Saturday, March 26
Round 7 — Saturday, April 2
Need more rental kart racing? How about competing in the Rental Kart class during upcoming Stars of PGP Kart Series and Stars of Motorsports events on Sunday, March 6 and Sunday, March 20?
The Stars of PGP Kart and Stars of Motorsports series require drivers have previous race experience in PGP’s Rental Kart Racing Series and pre-registration is also required for both. Stars events are also broadcast live with commentary on line so you can have all your friends and family follow along if they are not able to attend in person.
Taking part in the Rental Kart Racing Series is also a great way to prepare for the next round of the Stars of PGP Kart Series beginning in April. A rental kart class has been added to the series, but prior racing experience in a PGP rental-kart event is required.
On the Web
Visit www.pacificgp.com, become a fan of “Pacific Grand Prix” on Facebook or follow @pacificgp on Twitter.
About PGP Motorsports Park
PGP Motorsports Park is the Northwest’s premier multi-purpose racing facility and is located in close proximity to the greater Seattle metropolitan area. Named “Best Guys Weekend Destination” for 2010 in the KING 5 Evening Magazine Best of Western Washington contest, the track is easy to get to and inexpensive to utilize, making PGP a rare combination of top-level racing excitement and affordability. For more information on PGP events and services, visit www.pacificgp.com or call (253) 639-7223.
PGP Motorsports media contact
Paul Zalud, (206) 390-9858, paul@pacificgp.com
The solution is easy, and you can start this Saturday: PGP’s Rental Kart Racing Series!
We know you LOVE to race, but can’t always afford to fully indulge that desire by owning your own kart. So, you show up ready to experience the thrill of racing and PGP provides the rest — the kart, fuel, tires, helmet and a state-of-the-art venue. Never raced a kart before? Don’t worry about that, either, because the Novice class is specifically designed for first-time and beginning racers.
Whether you’re in the Novice or Expert Class, you’ll get plenty of track time as each Rental Kart Racing Series event follows PGP’s standard raceday format, with two Practice Sessions, a Heat Race, a Semi-Final and Final. That’s right: five on-track sessions in one day!
All racing at PGP is rain or shine — rental kart racing in the rain is insanely fun, by the way — and the warming hut will be open for all events. Cost per event is $85 for members, $95 for non-members. All competitors are invited to bring munchies and beverages for socializing and getting know your fellow racers after each event.
The remaining events scheduled for this round of the Rental Kart Racing Series are:
Round 4 — Saturday, Feb. 26
Round 5 — Saturday, March 12
Round 6 — Saturday, March 26
Round 7 — Saturday, April 2
Need more rental kart racing? How about competing in the Rental Kart class during upcoming Stars of PGP Kart Series and Stars of Motorsports events on Sunday, March 6 and Sunday, March 20?
The Stars of PGP Kart and Stars of Motorsports series require drivers have previous race experience in PGP’s Rental Kart Racing Series and pre-registration is also required for both. Stars events are also broadcast live with commentary on line so you can have all your friends and family follow along if they are not able to attend in person.
Taking part in the Rental Kart Racing Series is also a great way to prepare for the next round of the Stars of PGP Kart Series beginning in April. A rental kart class has been added to the series, but prior racing experience in a PGP rental-kart event is required.
On the Web
Visit www.pacificgp.com, become a fan of “Pacific Grand Prix” on Facebook or follow @pacificgp on Twitter.
About PGP Motorsports Park
PGP Motorsports Park is the Northwest’s premier multi-purpose racing facility and is located in close proximity to the greater Seattle metropolitan area. Named “Best Guys Weekend Destination” for 2010 in the KING 5 Evening Magazine Best of Western Washington contest, the track is easy to get to and inexpensive to utilize, making PGP a rare combination of top-level racing excitement and affordability. For more information on PGP events and services, visit www.pacificgp.com or call (253) 639-7223.
PGP Motorsports media contact
Paul Zalud, (206) 390-9858, paul@pacificgp.com
Idaho Driver Starts Season with Second Place Run in NASCAR K&N Pro Series
Photo Credit: Getty Images/NASCAR
TWIN FALLS, IDAHO (February 24, 2011) Jonathon Gomez of Twin Falls, Idaho equaled his career best NASCAR K&N Pro Series finish Thursday evening under the lights at Phoenix (AZ) International Raceway in the 3 Amigos Organic Blanco "100". Gomez used pit strategy and patience behind the wheel to finish in second place to begin his quest for the 2011 series title.
Gomez qualified his Heritage Cattle Co./Century Boatland Chevrolet in the eighth position, a disappointing effort considering the he was the fastest driver in two practice sessions earlier in the day.
At the drop of the green flag shortly after 4:30pm MT, Gomez quickly charged into the top five where he ran until pitting early in the race for right side tires and fuel. His strategy was to pit early and use patience as the rest of the 100-lap unfolded. During the second caution period Gomez took the lead briefly (lap 29) but was shuffled back to the 16th position after pit stop cycles.
Gomez methodically worked his way back into the top ten, using the outside groove through most of the race. As the laps began to wind down, he edged his way closer to the top five and by lap 80 he was up to the fourth position. Over the closing laps, Gomez waged a spirited battle with Derek Thorn and Ty Dillon, eventually getting the better of them and set his sights on race leader Greg Pursley.
Gomez closed to within one second of the race leader when the checkered flag dropped on round one of the 14-race championship series.
"I was disappointed with how qualifying worked out but we did not have long to focus on it," Gomez said. "We were really confident about the car but we went a little too loose with the setup in qualifying and it stayed that way the entire race."
Pitting early made the difference. "My crew chief Craig Raudman made the call to pit early and it was the right call," Gomez continued. "We had plenty of time to work back through the field. We really had a fourth place car but on that last restart we were able to get around the 44 and hold on to second for the final seven laps. We caught up to Greg but just did not have enough laps there at the end. I am proud of the whole team and I can't wait until the next race."
The next NASCAR K&N Pro Series race for Gomez and the Heritage Motor Sports team is nearly two months away, April 16 at All American Speedway in Roseville, CA.
The Heritage Motor Sports team is owned by John Gomez with Craig Raudman as crew chief and supported by Blaine Bergen, Jeff Woods, Dave Reed, Ron Copeland, Jeff Couch, Kyle Cattanaugh, Micah Paumer, and Rick Wilmerton.
Gomez, along with a crew led by Ron Copeland and driving for car owner Bob Standwold, will also defend his 2010 SPEARS SRL Southwest Tour championship title again this season in the popular California based Late Model tour. The SRL season gets underway April 2 at the Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Jonathon Gomez Post Race Interview Audio
Jonathon Gomez is supported by Heritage Cattle Company, Century Boatland, J&C Custom Harvesting, United Oil, Modern Machinery, DJ Safety, and Gomez Farms. Jonathon Gomez is the 2010 SPEARS SRL Southwest Tour Champion. Gomez is also a winner on the CarbonX Rocky Mountain Challenge Series and in the Mustang Challenge Series at Miller Motorsports Park. For more information on Jonathon Gomez, please log onto his website at http://jonathongomez.com or NASCAR Hometracks.
Marketing partnerships and sponsorship opportunities for the 2011 racing season are still available with Heritage Motor Sports and rising star Jonathon Gomez. For a custom proposal and additional information please contact John Gomez at 208/731-1288.
Race Results for the 3 Amigos Organic Blanco "100" at Phoenixt Phoenix 2/24/11
Fin Str Car Driver Team Laps Points B/Points Status
1 2 26 Greg Pursley Gene Price Motorsports Ford 100 190 10 Running
2 8 22 Jonathon Gomez Heritage Cattle/Century Boatland Chevrolet 100 175 5 Running
3 5 44 Derek Thorn * Four Star Fruit/Hronis Racing Chevrolet 100 165 Running
4 3 31 Ty Dillon BayBioDiesel/GGRT/RCR Chevrolet 100 165 5 Running
5 17 61 Brett Thompson Rich Thompson Trucking Chevrolet 100 155 Running
6 15 1 Jim Inglebright ESEF Apparel Chevrolet 100 150 Running
7 4 35 Andrew Ranger Waste Management Recycling Chevrolet 100 146 Running
8 16 16 Moses Smith HASA Pool Products/White Flyer Toyota 100 142 Running
9 6 17 David Mayhew MMI Services/Ron's Rear Ends/KHI Chevrolet 100 143 5 Running
10 23 12 DJ Kennington Northern Provincial Pipelines Toyota 100 134 Running
11 18 98 Chad Boat * Curb Records/KNIX Country 102.5 Chevrolet 100 130 Running
12 13 6 Luis Martinez, Jr. King Taco/Sunrise Ford/Lucas Oil Ford 100 127 Running
13 19 02 Daryl Harr WestWorld Computers Chevrolet 100 124 Running
14 25 20 Eric Holmes NAPA Toyota 100 121 Running
15 9 21 Michael Self Childress Ins't for Pediatric Trauma Chevrolet 100 118 Running
16 24 13 Todd Souza Central Coast Cabinets Toyota 100 115 Running
17 12 77 Andrew Myers Pro Cast/Eagle Transport Ford 100 112 Running
18 22 51 Carlos Vieira * Allied Packaging Toyota 100 109 Running
19 27 37 Robbie Brand Free Maysin Clothing/Lagunita's Ford 100 106 Running
20 26 5 Thomas Martin * Interstate Oil Company Chevrolet 100 103 Running
21 32 88 Troy Ermish Cooks Collision Chevrolet 100 100 Running
22 33 18 Billy Kann Interstate All Battery Center Toyota 100 97 Running
23 20 38 Ryan Philpott * Speed Zorb/Holleran's Performance Ford 100 94 Running
24 35 71 Carl Harr WestWorld Computers Chevrolet 100 91 Running
25 10 99 Travis Pastrana * Boost Mobile Toyota 97 88 Accident
26 36 55 Jack Sellers Interstate Oil Company Chevrolet 94 85 Running
27 29 23 Spencer Gallagher * Allegiant Air Chevrolet 89 82 Accident
28 34 01 Greg Rayl Race Talk Radio Ford 89 79 Running
29 31 15 Justin Funkhouser K&L Frame & Body Chevrolet 83 76 Running
30 14 65 Stan Silva, Jr. A&S Metals/Stan Silva Jr. Trucking Chevrolet 77 73 Running
31 7 86 Daniel Suarez * Telmex / TWR Dodge 65 70 Accident
32 28 07 Alex Kennedy Race Talk Radio Ford 64 67 Accident
33 1 39 Brennan Newberry * Drager/Metal Mulisha Chevrolet 64 69 5 Accident
34 30 3 Wes Banks Valvoline Ford 55 61 Accident
35 21 14 Travis Milburn Cooks Collision Toyota 33 58 Accident
36 11 42 Taylor Cuzick * Freightliner of Arizona Chevrolet 24 55 Accident
RACE STATISTICS
Race Comments: Prior to the green flag, the following drivers, under penalty, dropped from their original starting positions to the rear of the field for the reason indicated. #20 Eric Holmes (engine change), #98 Chad Boat (missed drivers meeting)
Failed to Qualify: (1) Johnny Borneman (#8)
Fastest Qualifier: Brennan Newberry *, Time: 27.962 Seconds, Speed: 128.746 mph
Time of Race: 1 hrs., 35 mins, 42 secs Average Speed: 62.696 mph Margin of Victory: 1.135 Seconds
Caution Flags: Laps 16-19 (Car #88 spin Backstretch); 25-29 (Cars #42 & #65 accident Turn 1); 34-42 (Car #14 accident Turn 3); 48-51 (Car #15 flat tire
Turn 4); 56-60 (Car #3 accident Turn 3); 65-68 (Cars #07, #39, #86 accident Turn 4
accident Turn 1). 8 for 41 laps.
Lap Leaders: Brennan Newberry * 1-20, Greg Pursley 21-26, Ty Dillon 27-28, Jonathon Gomez 29, Ty Dillon 30, David Mayhew 31, Ty Dillon 32-41,
David Mayhew 42, Ty Dillon 43-47, David Mayhew 48-69, Greg Pursley 70-100.
Total Laps Led: Greg Pursley 37, David Mayhew 24, Brennan Newberry * 20, Ty Dillon 18, Jonathon Gomez 1. 10 changes involving 5 drivers.
CONTINGENCY AWARDS
COCA-COLA MOVE OF THE RACE AWARD: DJ Kennington, 12 Northern Provincial Pipelines Toyota
COORS LIGHT POLE AWARD: Brennan Newberry *, 39 Drager/Metal Mulisha Chevrolet
FEATHERLITE MOST IMPROVED DRIVER AWARD: Brett Thompson, 61 Rich Thompson Trucking Chevrolet
Top 10 Driver Points: Greg Pursley 190, Jonathon Gomez 175, Derek Thorn * 165, Ty Dillon 165, Brett Thompson 155, Jim Inglebright 150, Andrew
Ranger 146, David Mayhew 143, Moses Smith 142, DJ Kennington 134
* Denotes Sunoco Rookie of the Year Contender
Evergreen Speedway: Call for Old Photos and Memories
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Tuesday, February 22, 2011
SUPERMOTO RIDERS PUGH, LEHMANN BATTLE DURING STARS OF MOTORSPORTS
KENT, Wash. — (Feb. 22, 2011) This past weekend PGP Motorsports Park played host to the penultimate round of the Stars of Motorsports Winter Series, a one-day event mixing five disciplines with karts, cars, scooters and bikes competing at the region’s premier racing facility.
PGP personnel were thrown a curveball before Sunday’s event even began as a downed power pole up the street left the track without power. No electricity meant no timing and scoring, but the event continued with open practice at 9 a.m. as track workers hoped the power would be restored in time for racing later on.
Even without power, spirits were still high at the track as Mother Nature blessed the event with beautiful blue skies, albeit cold temperatures.
Thanks to Lindsay High for use of the photos.
Lap Attack
Without timing and scoring, the Lap Attack category changed to open lapping for the cars in attendance, with the entry list doubled to give a few more drivers the opportunity to get on track.
An assortment of cars would take to the track, including the debut of Hiroshi Kanno’s Mustang GT — which was highly anticipated by PGP’s car-circle regulars. Kanno set a new record for straight-line speed, topping 75mph before jumping on the brakes heading into the first corner.
SuperMoto
Stars of Motorsports events have been the home for SuperMoto racing these past few months, with bikes dominating the entry list throughout the winter months. This round was no different, with 16 total bikes in the paddock — the biggest turn out so far this winter.
In a surprise turn, power came back on just after 11 a.m., and racing commenced shortly thereafter. In qualifying Ryan Pugh was the man to beat, setting the pace with a time of 1 minute 08.492 seconds, just in front of Jared Lehmann, Moaka Clay, and Cole Fredrickson to complete the front row.
In the first of six races, all in attendance were treated to a fantastic battle between Lehmann and Pugh, with the younger Lehmann holding the advantage over the more experienced Pugh for much of the race. Pugh made two passes during the short 5-lap moto, but Lehmann ducked right back underneath to steal the lead back. On the final lap, a little wheelspin out of turn 3 gave Pugh the margin he needed to stick the pass for good and take the win.
Having taken a five-month break from riding, Lehman said he was using Sunday’s event as a test for an upcoming Stateline competition in April.
“PGP is very tight and technical compared to the other tracks I have ridden on,” said Lehmann. “You really need to know the lines and the tires to get around fast here. The facility is nice and a good place to go and learn, and pick up new lines to improve your riding skills. The competition is good, and you can really tell the people who have improved just by riding here.”
Pugh, Lehmann and the rest of the front runners started from the back in Moto 2, with Lehmann making quick work of the competition and taking the lead before the halfway point. Right on his heels from the start was Clay, with both riders cutting almost identical lap times throughout the race. Lehmann finished first, Clay was second and Pugh rounded out the top-three while clocking the fastest lap on the day in the process.
Moto 3 was nearly a repeat of the previous race, with Lehmann and Clay running away from the start while Pugh worked his way through the pack after starting in the back. Lehmann took the convincing win, but Pugh made a late-race pass on Clay to grab second after once again clocking quick time on his well set-up KTM bike.
The fourth race was a replay of Moto 1, as Lehmann once again had to fend off the slightly quicker Pugh from the drop of the green flag. This time, however, there would be no mistakes from the younger rider as he held on to the lead all the way to the checkered flag.. Clay rounded out the top three, making it four podium finishes in four starts, an excellent shakedown for the new Husky bike he was riding.
Many riders called it a day early, including Lehmann and Clay, and Moto’s 5 and 6 had just half of the grid take to the track. Pugh would again run from back-to-front en route to winning both final races, but with the field thinned down some new drivers were able to climb the podium.
Dylan Ferreira capped an impressive day by finishing second in the final two motos. Earlier, Ferreira thought his day was over after he lost the motor on his 250 after just four laps of practice. The Pughs, Ryan and father Gary, loaned him a bike for the day, but it was a 450 —a big change for Ferreira. As the day went on Ferreira got more and more comfortable on the seat of the bigger bike, and during his two runner-up finishes he ran very competitive lap times.
Third place overall in the Moto 5 went to Gary Pugh, who had been consistently battling in the top-five all day long, and Ernie Delacruz rounded out the top three in Moto 6.
Scooter/Mini
Brian Noji had another impressive run in the Scooter/Mini category, capping off his class win by finishing third overall in the final moto of the day. Joining him on the podium in the class were Mike Redling, who was using the event as a shakedown for his new Honda 150 Mini and Debra Johnson, who represented the ladies and DRZ riders on her Yamaha.
On the Web
Visit www.pacificgp.com, become a fan of “Pacific Grand Prix” on Facebook or follow @pacificgp on Twitter.
About PGP Motorsports Park
PGP Motorsports Park is the Northwest’s premier multi-purpose racing facility and is located in close proximity to the greater Seattle metropolitan area. Named “Best Guys Weekend Destination” for 2010 in the KING 5 Evening Magazine Best of Western Washington contest, the track is easy to get to and inexpensive to utilize, making PGP a rare combination of top-level racing excitement and affordability. For more information on PGP events and services, visit www.pacificgp.com or call (253) 639-7223.
PGP Motorsports media contact
Paul Zalud, (206) 390-9858, paul@pacificgp.com
PGP personnel were thrown a curveball before Sunday’s event even began as a downed power pole up the street left the track without power. No electricity meant no timing and scoring, but the event continued with open practice at 9 a.m. as track workers hoped the power would be restored in time for racing later on.
Even without power, spirits were still high at the track as Mother Nature blessed the event with beautiful blue skies, albeit cold temperatures.
Thanks to Lindsay High for use of the photos.
Lap Attack
An assortment of cars would take to the track, including the debut of Hiroshi Kanno’s Mustang GT — which was highly anticipated by PGP’s car-circle regulars. Kanno set a new record for straight-line speed, topping 75mph before jumping on the brakes heading into the first corner.
SuperMoto
Stars of Motorsports events have been the home for SuperMoto racing these past few months, with bikes dominating the entry list throughout the winter months. This round was no different, with 16 total bikes in the paddock — the biggest turn out so far this winter.
In a surprise turn, power came back on just after 11 a.m., and racing commenced shortly thereafter. In qualifying Ryan Pugh was the man to beat, setting the pace with a time of 1 minute 08.492 seconds, just in front of Jared Lehmann, Moaka Clay, and Cole Fredrickson to complete the front row.
In the first of six races, all in attendance were treated to a fantastic battle between Lehmann and Pugh, with the younger Lehmann holding the advantage over the more experienced Pugh for much of the race. Pugh made two passes during the short 5-lap moto, but Lehmann ducked right back underneath to steal the lead back. On the final lap, a little wheelspin out of turn 3 gave Pugh the margin he needed to stick the pass for good and take the win.
Having taken a five-month break from riding, Lehman said he was using Sunday’s event as a test for an upcoming Stateline competition in April.
“PGP is very tight and technical compared to the other tracks I have ridden on,” said Lehmann. “You really need to know the lines and the tires to get around fast here. The facility is nice and a good place to go and learn, and pick up new lines to improve your riding skills. The competition is good, and you can really tell the people who have improved just by riding here.”
Pugh, Lehmann and the rest of the front runners started from the back in Moto 2, with Lehmann making quick work of the competition and taking the lead before the halfway point. Right on his heels from the start was Clay, with both riders cutting almost identical lap times throughout the race. Lehmann finished first, Clay was second and Pugh rounded out the top-three while clocking the fastest lap on the day in the process.
Moto 3 was nearly a repeat of the previous race, with Lehmann and Clay running away from the start while Pugh worked his way through the pack after starting in the back. Lehmann took the convincing win, but Pugh made a late-race pass on Clay to grab second after once again clocking quick time on his well set-up KTM bike.
The fourth race was a replay of Moto 1, as Lehmann once again had to fend off the slightly quicker Pugh from the drop of the green flag. This time, however, there would be no mistakes from the younger rider as he held on to the lead all the way to the checkered flag.. Clay rounded out the top three, making it four podium finishes in four starts, an excellent shakedown for the new Husky bike he was riding.
Many riders called it a day early, including Lehmann and Clay, and Moto’s 5 and 6 had just half of the grid take to the track. Pugh would again run from back-to-front en route to winning both final races, but with the field thinned down some new drivers were able to climb the podium.
Dylan Ferreira capped an impressive day by finishing second in the final two motos. Earlier, Ferreira thought his day was over after he lost the motor on his 250 after just four laps of practice. The Pughs, Ryan and father Gary, loaned him a bike for the day, but it was a 450 —a big change for Ferreira. As the day went on Ferreira got more and more comfortable on the seat of the bigger bike, and during his two runner-up finishes he ran very competitive lap times.
Third place overall in the Moto 5 went to Gary Pugh, who had been consistently battling in the top-five all day long, and Ernie Delacruz rounded out the top three in Moto 6.
Scooter/Mini
Brian Noji had another impressive run in the Scooter/Mini category, capping off his class win by finishing third overall in the final moto of the day. Joining him on the podium in the class were Mike Redling, who was using the event as a shakedown for his new Honda 150 Mini and Debra Johnson, who represented the ladies and DRZ riders on her Yamaha.
On the Web
Visit www.pacificgp.com, become a fan of “Pacific Grand Prix” on Facebook or follow @pacificgp on Twitter.
About PGP Motorsports Park
PGP Motorsports Park is the Northwest’s premier multi-purpose racing facility and is located in close proximity to the greater Seattle metropolitan area. Named “Best Guys Weekend Destination” for 2010 in the KING 5 Evening Magazine Best of Western Washington contest, the track is easy to get to and inexpensive to utilize, making PGP a rare combination of top-level racing excitement and affordability. For more information on PGP events and services, visit www.pacificgp.com or call (253) 639-7223.
PGP Motorsports media contact
Paul Zalud, (206) 390-9858, paul@pacificgp.com
Thompson to Make Career Start 100 at Phoenix
Brett Thompson Excited to Return To Phoenix; Focused on Victory Lane
JEROME, IDAHO (February 21, 2011) Brett Thompson, driver of the RTTI/Jerome Truck Center Chevrolet, returns to full-time action in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series this season with the first race this Thursday evening at Phoenix (AZ) International Raceway in the 3 Amigos Organic Blanco "100". The start will also mark a career milestone for the Jerome, Idaho competitor as Thompson will make his 100th career start in the West's oldest stock car series.
Thompson has competed in the K&N Pro Series for much of the last ten years, making his first career start back in 2000 at Rocky Mountain Raceway (SLC, UT) where he came home with a top ten finish. And while a lot has changed over the past decade, the goal of winning at Phoenix stays the same. "This is a race everyone wants to win," Thompson said. "We have been close a few times and this season we have a renewed energy and sense of purpose. We know we can win."
That renewed sense of purpose was cultivated last season when Thompson took some time away from the K&N Pro Series making only five starts. Instead he concentrated on Late Model racing in the Rocky Mountain Challenge Series where he credits the series format in making him a better driver.
"I really learned a lot racing in the RMCS last season," Thompson offered. "In the RMCS, fast guys start in the back, so you have to know when to race and when to push it moving up through the field. With the limited tire rule, you also had to save tires, so I believe as a driver I will be a lot better later in the races this season."
"We were disappointed with our two races last year at Phoenix." Thompson said. "We had cars capable of winning but destroyed them both late in the race. We have three brand new cars ready to go and our Phoenix car is perfect. Hopefully this time around we can come out on top."
To come out on top in this 100-lap sprint race, you first have to qualify well then have track position on your side late in the race. "We plan to start up front and pit early," Thompson offered. "We don't plan on changing tires so saving your tires during the first 75 laps is going to be critical. We just want to be running in the top five with ten to go. If we are there then we have a shot."
"I love racing at Phoenix," Thompson said. "It is a special racetrack and a victory would mean everything to our team."
Thompson has started 99 races in NKNPS and has scored one win, one pole award, 20 top five and 56 top ten performances. Thompson's best Phoenix finish in 15 previous starts is a pair of fourth place finishes (04, 08). "Racing as part of the Sprint Cup weekend is great for the series," Thompson stated. "Phoenix is a very popular track for fans and to be part of a big racing weekend is great. The K&N Pro Series continues to get better and I know the fans will see a great show."
Thompson Motorsports is a premier motorsports organization based in Jerome, Idaho providing complete race car preparation and fabrication supporting the local grassroots racer and experienced professional driver. TMS fields cars in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, NASCAR K&N Pro Series, CarbonX Rocky Mountain Challenge Series, Intermountain Pro Truck Series, and entries at local area short tracks. TMS has corporate partnerships with Rich Thompson Trucking Inc. (RTTI), Jerome Truck Center, Ron's Rear Ends, United Oil, VaCom Technologies, Windmill Inn and Suites, and Speedbear. For all the latest news and information about Brett Thompson and Thompson Motorsports, log onto www.brettthompsonracing.com.
JEROME, IDAHO (February 21, 2011) Brett Thompson, driver of the RTTI/Jerome Truck Center Chevrolet, returns to full-time action in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series this season with the first race this Thursday evening at Phoenix (AZ) International Raceway in the 3 Amigos Organic Blanco "100". The start will also mark a career milestone for the Jerome, Idaho competitor as Thompson will make his 100th career start in the West's oldest stock car series.
Thompson has competed in the K&N Pro Series for much of the last ten years, making his first career start back in 2000 at Rocky Mountain Raceway (SLC, UT) where he came home with a top ten finish. And while a lot has changed over the past decade, the goal of winning at Phoenix stays the same. "This is a race everyone wants to win," Thompson said. "We have been close a few times and this season we have a renewed energy and sense of purpose. We know we can win."
That renewed sense of purpose was cultivated last season when Thompson took some time away from the K&N Pro Series making only five starts. Instead he concentrated on Late Model racing in the Rocky Mountain Challenge Series where he credits the series format in making him a better driver.
"I really learned a lot racing in the RMCS last season," Thompson offered. "In the RMCS, fast guys start in the back, so you have to know when to race and when to push it moving up through the field. With the limited tire rule, you also had to save tires, so I believe as a driver I will be a lot better later in the races this season."
"We were disappointed with our two races last year at Phoenix." Thompson said. "We had cars capable of winning but destroyed them both late in the race. We have three brand new cars ready to go and our Phoenix car is perfect. Hopefully this time around we can come out on top."
To come out on top in this 100-lap sprint race, you first have to qualify well then have track position on your side late in the race. "We plan to start up front and pit early," Thompson offered. "We don't plan on changing tires so saving your tires during the first 75 laps is going to be critical. We just want to be running in the top five with ten to go. If we are there then we have a shot."
"I love racing at Phoenix," Thompson said. "It is a special racetrack and a victory would mean everything to our team."
Thompson has started 99 races in NKNPS and has scored one win, one pole award, 20 top five and 56 top ten performances. Thompson's best Phoenix finish in 15 previous starts is a pair of fourth place finishes (04, 08). "Racing as part of the Sprint Cup weekend is great for the series," Thompson stated. "Phoenix is a very popular track for fans and to be part of a big racing weekend is great. The K&N Pro Series continues to get better and I know the fans will see a great show."
Thompson Motorsports is a premier motorsports organization based in Jerome, Idaho providing complete race car preparation and fabrication supporting the local grassroots racer and experienced professional driver. TMS fields cars in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, NASCAR K&N Pro Series, CarbonX Rocky Mountain Challenge Series, Intermountain Pro Truck Series, and entries at local area short tracks. TMS has corporate partnerships with Rich Thompson Trucking Inc. (RTTI), Jerome Truck Center, Ron's Rear Ends, United Oil, VaCom Technologies, Windmill Inn and Suites, and Speedbear. For all the latest news and information about Brett Thompson and Thompson Motorsports, log onto www.brettthompsonracing.com.
Jonathon Gomez Set for Breakout Season
Phoenix On Tap to Start 58th NASCAR K&N Pro Series Season
TWIN FALLS, IDAHO (February 21, 2011) With the Daytona 500 now in the books, the short track warriors of NASCAR's K&N Pro Series are set to begin their season this Thursday evening under the lights at Phoenix (AZ) International Raceway in the 3 Amigos Organic Blanco "100". The K&N Pro Series will share the stage with the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at the "Desert Mile", but this is no ordinary under card as the series embarks on its 58th season.
For Jonathon Gomez, who hails from Twin Falls, Idaho, the race at Phoenix signals the beginning of a new race season but more importantly, the opportunity for the 28-year old to shine in his quest for the 2011 title. Gomez has made three previous starts at Phoenix with his best finish of fourth coming in this event last season.
"We are so much better prepared than we were last season," Gomez stated. "I have been amped up about this race since last year. We learned so much last season and we feel we know what it is going to take to be in contention late in the race."
In no less than six races last season, Gomez was running among the leaders only to have on-track incidents, flat tires, fuel issues, and just plain bad luck derail top five finishes. "We certainly did not finish a few of the races like we had wanted to but we are a much better team today because it."
The new season always brings a lot of new faces to the West's oldest stock car series but this season you can count Gomez as one of the favorites to contend for the series title. "We feel we have a team that can compete for the title," Gomez said. "It will not be easy but with Craig (Raudman, crew chief) leading the team we know our first win is coming."
That win could come this Thursday. Gomez finished fourth and eleventh in two Phoenix races last season completing all the laps contested. In fact, Gomez led all competitors last season in laps completed (1700 out of 1705) throughout the 12-race schedule and was the recipient of the Driver Achievement Award and a sixth place final points finish for the 2010 campaign in his first full season in the series.
With this race being only 100-laps, track position will be key, especially late in the race. Most teams will likely not stop for tires, electing only to take a splash of gas and that stop may come early in the race.
Qualifying will also be a key factor in the race and Gomez has qualified no better than 17th in three previous starts. "We have a fast car and I would be surprised if we don't qualify among the top five or six," Gomez offered. "The K&N Pro Series is a tough series with a lot of great drivers. We feel we are one of the top teams and a win at Phoenix would be awesome."
The Heritage Motor Sports team is owned by John Gomez with Craig Raudman as crew chief and supported by Blaine Bergen, Jeff Woods, Dave Reed, Ron Copeland, Jeff Couch, Kyle Cattanaugh, Micah Paumer, and Rick Wilmerton.
Gomez, along with a crew led by Ron Copeland and driving for car owner Bob Standwold, will also defend his 2010 SPEARS SRL Southwest Tour championship title again this season in the popular California based Late Model tour. The SRL season gets underway April 2 at the Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Jonathon Gomez is supported by Heritage Cattle Company, Century Boatland, J&C Custom Harvesting, United Oil, Modern Machinery, DJ Safety, and Gomez Farms. Jonathon Gomez is the 2010 SPEARS SRL Southwest Tour Champion. Gomez is also a winner on the CarbonX Rocky Mountain Challenge Series and in the Mustang Challenge Series at Miller Motorsports Park. For more information on Jonathon Gomez, please log onto his website at http://jonathongomez.com or NASCAR Hometracks.
Marketing partnerships and sponsorship opportunities for the 2011 racing season are still available with Heritage Motor Sports and rising star Jonathon Gomez. For a custom proposal and additional information please contact John Gomez at 208/731-1288.
TWIN FALLS, IDAHO (February 21, 2011) With the Daytona 500 now in the books, the short track warriors of NASCAR's K&N Pro Series are set to begin their season this Thursday evening under the lights at Phoenix (AZ) International Raceway in the 3 Amigos Organic Blanco "100". The K&N Pro Series will share the stage with the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at the "Desert Mile", but this is no ordinary under card as the series embarks on its 58th season.
For Jonathon Gomez, who hails from Twin Falls, Idaho, the race at Phoenix signals the beginning of a new race season but more importantly, the opportunity for the 28-year old to shine in his quest for the 2011 title. Gomez has made three previous starts at Phoenix with his best finish of fourth coming in this event last season.
"We are so much better prepared than we were last season," Gomez stated. "I have been amped up about this race since last year. We learned so much last season and we feel we know what it is going to take to be in contention late in the race."
In no less than six races last season, Gomez was running among the leaders only to have on-track incidents, flat tires, fuel issues, and just plain bad luck derail top five finishes. "We certainly did not finish a few of the races like we had wanted to but we are a much better team today because it."
The new season always brings a lot of new faces to the West's oldest stock car series but this season you can count Gomez as one of the favorites to contend for the series title. "We feel we have a team that can compete for the title," Gomez said. "It will not be easy but with Craig (Raudman, crew chief) leading the team we know our first win is coming."
That win could come this Thursday. Gomez finished fourth and eleventh in two Phoenix races last season completing all the laps contested. In fact, Gomez led all competitors last season in laps completed (1700 out of 1705) throughout the 12-race schedule and was the recipient of the Driver Achievement Award and a sixth place final points finish for the 2010 campaign in his first full season in the series.
With this race being only 100-laps, track position will be key, especially late in the race. Most teams will likely not stop for tires, electing only to take a splash of gas and that stop may come early in the race.
Qualifying will also be a key factor in the race and Gomez has qualified no better than 17th in three previous starts. "We have a fast car and I would be surprised if we don't qualify among the top five or six," Gomez offered. "The K&N Pro Series is a tough series with a lot of great drivers. We feel we are one of the top teams and a win at Phoenix would be awesome."
The Heritage Motor Sports team is owned by John Gomez with Craig Raudman as crew chief and supported by Blaine Bergen, Jeff Woods, Dave Reed, Ron Copeland, Jeff Couch, Kyle Cattanaugh, Micah Paumer, and Rick Wilmerton.
Gomez, along with a crew led by Ron Copeland and driving for car owner Bob Standwold, will also defend his 2010 SPEARS SRL Southwest Tour championship title again this season in the popular California based Late Model tour. The SRL season gets underway April 2 at the Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Jonathon Gomez is supported by Heritage Cattle Company, Century Boatland, J&C Custom Harvesting, United Oil, Modern Machinery, DJ Safety, and Gomez Farms. Jonathon Gomez is the 2010 SPEARS SRL Southwest Tour Champion. Gomez is also a winner on the CarbonX Rocky Mountain Challenge Series and in the Mustang Challenge Series at Miller Motorsports Park. For more information on Jonathon Gomez, please log onto his website at http://jonathongomez.com or NASCAR Hometracks.
Marketing partnerships and sponsorship opportunities for the 2011 racing season are still available with Heritage Motor Sports and rising star Jonathon Gomez. For a custom proposal and additional information please contact John Gomez at 208/731-1288.
Friday, February 18, 2011
SUPERMOTO RIDER NICK FOSTER SET FOR SUNDAY’S STARS OF MOTORSPORTS EVENT
For immediate release, PGP Motorsports Park (16-11)
KENT, Wash. — (Feb. 18, 2011) Ever been someplace or done something for the first time, but knew instinctively that it just felt right?
For Nick Foster, that someplace would be PGP Motorsports Park and the something would be the SuperMoto class of the Stars of Motorsports Series. He’ll be back on his 2009 Yamaha YZ250F for a second go round for the second-to-last round of the Motorsports Series this Sunday.
“My first SuperMoto race ever was on Jan. 11, in the rain with the Stars of Motorsports. I really enjoy racing at PGP. The place has a great staff, they do their job and they have rules, but at the same time it has the feel of a family event that makes it easy to have fun,” said Foster, 41. “Racing is competition — I get that — but racing with people you enjoy and can be friends with and help out in times of need, that’s a true experience.”
Born and raised in California but now a resident of Gig Harbor, Wash., Foster said “the two most important people” in his life are 16-year-old son Julien Foster and girlfriend Jessica Rude. Foster is a service manager for The Brothers PowerSports of Bremerton, Wash., the continuation of a life spent around motorsports.
“My job at The Brothers started out as a stepping stone into the motorcycle industry but has turned into a career,” said Foster. “Everybody there loves bikes and we love riding and sharing our enthusiasm for our sport. It’s a great feeling to be part of something that only about 3 percent of the population does.”
His stepfather owned a small repair shop and was a very good engine builder, and Foster raced bikes on the sand dunes of California’s Pismo Beach as well as at motocross tracks in the central part of the state. After getting his California driver’s license, Foster got interested in air-cooled Volkswagens — “I figured out that you could make them faster than most muscle cars,” he said.
But then life got in the way a bit, and Foster ended up taking an extended break from both bikes and Volkswagens. He tried a couple different careers, did some traveling, taught scuba and managed dive shops while raising Julien as a single parent.
But then in 2000 Foster was feeling burned out on diving, so he got back on a motorcycle and instantly got that instinctive — just right — feeling like it was the first time all over again.
“I started riding again and realized where my heart was at,” he said with a smile. “It was like all of my fondest childhood memories revisited in the magical twist of a throttle. I could taste 2-stroke oil and race fuel again. Seriously, it was an awakening.”
Going with this renewed feeling, Foster changed careers to be around motorcycles, giving up scuba for The Brothers PowerSports. He gets as much satisfaction out of building bikes as he does riding, and over the past decade Foster has owned both street/track and dirt bikes, riding them at track days and racing in off-road events.
Foster learned about PGP from good friends Mike and Linda Redling. While getting a bike ready for the Stars of Motorsports event, he took part in some rental kart racing to learn the track — and had a lot of fun, saying it was a “very affordable way to experience racing as well as to challenge your skills.”
If anything, the favorable impression he got from the seat of a rental kart was increased after the Stars of Motorsports event in January.
“I have raced on different levels at many different venues and I love the fact that you can go to PGP to have a good time, throw your elbows up and race for the finish line with lots of very talented riders and just have fun,” said Foster. “Attitude is everything and to this day I have had nothing but good experiences with the riders, drivers, spectators and employees of PGP.”
The final Stars of Motorsports Fall-Winter Series event after this Sunday is March 20. Asked if he would take part in the upcoming Stars of PGP SuperMoto Series that begins on April 17, Foster’s answer was an emphatic “Yes!” With the help and encouragement of Jessica, Foster renewed his acquaintance with air-cooled Volkswagens, and he also is considering taking part in a Lapping Day or the Lap Attack Series.
“To anyone thinking of trying SuperMoto, karting or any other motorsport offered at PGP, I say do it,” said Foster. “You won’t regret it. You will have fun — I promise you that.”
On the Web
Visit www.pacificgp.com, become a fan of “Pacific Grand Prix” on Facebook or follow @pacificgp on Twitter.
About PGP Motorsports Park
PGP Motorsports Park is the Northwest’s premier multi-purpose racing facility and is located in close proximity to the greater Seattle metropolitan area. Named “Best Guys Weekend Destination” for 2010 in the KING 5 Evening Magazine Best of Western Washington contest, the track is easy to get to and inexpensive to utilize, making PGP a rare combination of top-level racing excitement and affordability. For more information on PGP events and services, visit www.pacificgp.com or call (253) 639-7223.
PGP Motorsports media contact
Paul Zalud, (206) 390-9858, paul@pacificgp.com
KENT, Wash. — (Feb. 18, 2011) Ever been someplace or done something for the first time, but knew instinctively that it just felt right?
For Nick Foster, that someplace would be PGP Motorsports Park and the something would be the SuperMoto class of the Stars of Motorsports Series. He’ll be back on his 2009 Yamaha YZ250F for a second go round for the second-to-last round of the Motorsports Series this Sunday.
“My first SuperMoto race ever was on Jan. 11, in the rain with the Stars of Motorsports. I really enjoy racing at PGP. The place has a great staff, they do their job and they have rules, but at the same time it has the feel of a family event that makes it easy to have fun,” said Foster, 41. “Racing is competition — I get that — but racing with people you enjoy and can be friends with and help out in times of need, that’s a true experience.”
Born and raised in California but now a resident of Gig Harbor, Wash., Foster said “the two most important people” in his life are 16-year-old son Julien Foster and girlfriend Jessica Rude. Foster is a service manager for The Brothers PowerSports of Bremerton, Wash., the continuation of a life spent around motorsports.
“My job at The Brothers started out as a stepping stone into the motorcycle industry but has turned into a career,” said Foster. “Everybody there loves bikes and we love riding and sharing our enthusiasm for our sport. It’s a great feeling to be part of something that only about 3 percent of the population does.”
His stepfather owned a small repair shop and was a very good engine builder, and Foster raced bikes on the sand dunes of California’s Pismo Beach as well as at motocross tracks in the central part of the state. After getting his California driver’s license, Foster got interested in air-cooled Volkswagens — “I figured out that you could make them faster than most muscle cars,” he said.
But then life got in the way a bit, and Foster ended up taking an extended break from both bikes and Volkswagens. He tried a couple different careers, did some traveling, taught scuba and managed dive shops while raising Julien as a single parent.
But then in 2000 Foster was feeling burned out on diving, so he got back on a motorcycle and instantly got that instinctive — just right — feeling like it was the first time all over again.
“I started riding again and realized where my heart was at,” he said with a smile. “It was like all of my fondest childhood memories revisited in the magical twist of a throttle. I could taste 2-stroke oil and race fuel again. Seriously, it was an awakening.”
Going with this renewed feeling, Foster changed careers to be around motorcycles, giving up scuba for The Brothers PowerSports. He gets as much satisfaction out of building bikes as he does riding, and over the past decade Foster has owned both street/track and dirt bikes, riding them at track days and racing in off-road events.
Foster learned about PGP from good friends Mike and Linda Redling. While getting a bike ready for the Stars of Motorsports event, he took part in some rental kart racing to learn the track — and had a lot of fun, saying it was a “very affordable way to experience racing as well as to challenge your skills.”
If anything, the favorable impression he got from the seat of a rental kart was increased after the Stars of Motorsports event in January.
“I have raced on different levels at many different venues and I love the fact that you can go to PGP to have a good time, throw your elbows up and race for the finish line with lots of very talented riders and just have fun,” said Foster. “Attitude is everything and to this day I have had nothing but good experiences with the riders, drivers, spectators and employees of PGP.”
The final Stars of Motorsports Fall-Winter Series event after this Sunday is March 20. Asked if he would take part in the upcoming Stars of PGP SuperMoto Series that begins on April 17, Foster’s answer was an emphatic “Yes!” With the help and encouragement of Jessica, Foster renewed his acquaintance with air-cooled Volkswagens, and he also is considering taking part in a Lapping Day or the Lap Attack Series.
“To anyone thinking of trying SuperMoto, karting or any other motorsport offered at PGP, I say do it,” said Foster. “You won’t regret it. You will have fun — I promise you that.”
On the Web
Visit www.pacificgp.com, become a fan of “Pacific Grand Prix” on Facebook or follow @pacificgp on Twitter.
About PGP Motorsports Park
PGP Motorsports Park is the Northwest’s premier multi-purpose racing facility and is located in close proximity to the greater Seattle metropolitan area. Named “Best Guys Weekend Destination” for 2010 in the KING 5 Evening Magazine Best of Western Washington contest, the track is easy to get to and inexpensive to utilize, making PGP a rare combination of top-level racing excitement and affordability. For more information on PGP events and services, visit www.pacificgp.com or call (253) 639-7223.
PGP Motorsports media contact
Paul Zalud, (206) 390-9858, paul@pacificgp.com
ROCKY MOUNTAIN RACEWAYS ENTERS THEIR 15TH SEASON WITH A NEW LEADER
Kevin Ramsell, American Speed Association PR
DAYTONA BEACH, FL (Friday, February 18, 2011) - The 2010 season was more of a dream season for Rocky Mountain Raceways, an ASA Member Track in West Valley City, Utah. The track is now the home of two national champions, one at their oval track and another on their drag strip. They will come into their 2011 season with high hopes and a new General Manager.
Mike Eames replaces Doug Binstock, who retired after the 2010 season. Binstock went out on a high note as Bryan Wordelman, the 2010 Maverik Modified track champion, won the Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil ASA Member Track National Championship on the oval track. If that was not all, on the drag strip side, Chris Hall won the 2010 IHRA Summit Super Series No Box World Championship.
Eames comes into his new role with confidence this season, " It would be hard to fathom topping last year with the success we had on the race track. I firmly believe that Utah has some of the best racers in the country," Eames said. "I would put our guys and gals against anyone. I would not be shocked if we had similar success in 2011."
With his new role, he has a basic goal for this season. "We have a fantastic venue. I would like to be just a little bit better in all areas. My goal is simple: +1. I want one more car racing, one more fan attending, one more dollar at the concession stand and one more sponsor."
Along with the success the track had, they are also reaching a milestone this season, "We will be celebrating our 15th anniversary this year and we have a lot of fun stuff planned," Eames announced. "We have several big events, starting with Military Appreciation Day on May 30. We have big firework shows planned for July 2 and July 23. July 23 will also feature the SRL Southwest Tour which will be stopping in Salt Lake City for the first time. Our very popular Maverik Clash of the Titans Monster Truck show is August 13 and 14, followed by the Doomsday of Destruction trailer race on Labor day."
When Eames was announced as the new General Manager, one of the first people he met was ASA President Dennis Huth. "ASA provides us with such outstanding support on all levels. Dennis and his entire team have helped me so much getting my feet on the ground," Eames said. "They really care about the racers and finding ways to help the communication between all the tracks. The Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil ASA Member Track National Championship gives all the grass roots racers a really big carrot to work for throughout the year."
Even though he has been running around since he started his new position, he realizes that he cannot make it alone. "I just want to thank all those people that have reached out with kind words through my transition to General Manager," Eames said. "I really do appreciate it. I wish all the tracks around the country big crowds, big profits, and big smiles!"
"It is a pleasure to see how Spencer Young's vision, that he had 15 years ago, be the success that it is today," Dennis Huth, ASA President said. "Doug Binstock did an incredible job helping Spencer with his vision. Mike Eames will do a great job in continuing what both Spencer and Doug started and continue the success at Rocky Mountain Raceways. We are proud to have a top notch facility as part of our championship team."
Located in West Valley City, Utah, RMR is a 3/8-mile asphalt oval with seating for 5200 spectators and VIP suites. Along with the oval track, the multipurpose facility includes an NHRA drag strip, motocross course, and the world's first manmade rock crawling facility. Track elevation: 4,200 ft.
To can learn more about RMR, check out their 2011 season schedule and latest news by visiting, www.rmrracing.com.
To learn more about the ASA Member Tracks and Sanctioned Series in your area, please visit www.asa-racing.com.
The American Speed Association started as a single racing series in 1968 and is a fast growing racing sanctioning body today. The ASA Member Track program sanctions dirt and asphalt short tracks along with road courses around the United States, as well as a variety of regional and national touring series. For more information call (386) 258-2221, or send an email to info@asa-racing.com. The latest news and information from all the racetracks and tours involved in the ASA can be found by visiting www.ASA-Racing.com.
ASA®, ASA Racing®, American Speed Association® are registered trademarks of Racing Speed Associates, LLC.
DAYTONA BEACH, FL (Friday, February 18, 2011) - The 2010 season was more of a dream season for Rocky Mountain Raceways, an ASA Member Track in West Valley City, Utah. The track is now the home of two national champions, one at their oval track and another on their drag strip. They will come into their 2011 season with high hopes and a new General Manager.
Mike Eames replaces Doug Binstock, who retired after the 2010 season. Binstock went out on a high note as Bryan Wordelman, the 2010 Maverik Modified track champion, won the Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil ASA Member Track National Championship on the oval track. If that was not all, on the drag strip side, Chris Hall won the 2010 IHRA Summit Super Series No Box World Championship.
Eames comes into his new role with confidence this season, " It would be hard to fathom topping last year with the success we had on the race track. I firmly believe that Utah has some of the best racers in the country," Eames said. "I would put our guys and gals against anyone. I would not be shocked if we had similar success in 2011."
With his new role, he has a basic goal for this season. "We have a fantastic venue. I would like to be just a little bit better in all areas. My goal is simple: +1. I want one more car racing, one more fan attending, one more dollar at the concession stand and one more sponsor."
Along with the success the track had, they are also reaching a milestone this season, "We will be celebrating our 15th anniversary this year and we have a lot of fun stuff planned," Eames announced. "We have several big events, starting with Military Appreciation Day on May 30. We have big firework shows planned for July 2 and July 23. July 23 will also feature the SRL Southwest Tour which will be stopping in Salt Lake City for the first time. Our very popular Maverik Clash of the Titans Monster Truck show is August 13 and 14, followed by the Doomsday of Destruction trailer race on Labor day."
When Eames was announced as the new General Manager, one of the first people he met was ASA President Dennis Huth. "ASA provides us with such outstanding support on all levels. Dennis and his entire team have helped me so much getting my feet on the ground," Eames said. "They really care about the racers and finding ways to help the communication between all the tracks. The Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil ASA Member Track National Championship gives all the grass roots racers a really big carrot to work for throughout the year."
Even though he has been running around since he started his new position, he realizes that he cannot make it alone. "I just want to thank all those people that have reached out with kind words through my transition to General Manager," Eames said. "I really do appreciate it. I wish all the tracks around the country big crowds, big profits, and big smiles!"
"It is a pleasure to see how Spencer Young's vision, that he had 15 years ago, be the success that it is today," Dennis Huth, ASA President said. "Doug Binstock did an incredible job helping Spencer with his vision. Mike Eames will do a great job in continuing what both Spencer and Doug started and continue the success at Rocky Mountain Raceways. We are proud to have a top notch facility as part of our championship team."
Located in West Valley City, Utah, RMR is a 3/8-mile asphalt oval with seating for 5200 spectators and VIP suites. Along with the oval track, the multipurpose facility includes an NHRA drag strip, motocross course, and the world's first manmade rock crawling facility. Track elevation: 4,200 ft.
To can learn more about RMR, check out their 2011 season schedule and latest news by visiting, www.rmrracing.com.
To learn more about the ASA Member Tracks and Sanctioned Series in your area, please visit www.asa-racing.com.
The American Speed Association started as a single racing series in 1968 and is a fast growing racing sanctioning body today. The ASA Member Track program sanctions dirt and asphalt short tracks along with road courses around the United States, as well as a variety of regional and national touring series. For more information call (386) 258-2221, or send an email to info@asa-racing.com. The latest news and information from all the racetracks and tours involved in the ASA can be found by visiting www.ASA-Racing.com.
ASA®, ASA Racing®, American Speed Association® are registered trademarks of Racing Speed Associates, LLC.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Northwest Pro4 Alliance welcomes new partner JZ Motorsports
BOISE, Idaho (Feb. 16, 2011) – The Northwest Pro4 Alliance would like to announce their newest marketing partnership by welcoming JZ Motorsports Parts & Fabrication to our “Winners Bonus Program.” John and Stephanie Zaretzke’s company will be the sponsor for the July 9th event at Evergreen Speedway.
The JZ Motorsport Parts & Fabrication 40 will bring top teams from across the Northwest and as far away as Southern California to take part in the K&N Filter Pro Series West weekend. The NASCAR star-studded event on the famed 5/8-mile track located in Monroe, WA, will mark the return of NASCAR to the Northwest.
Northwest Pro4 Alliance marketing director, Bob Coply states, “Having John and Stephanie’s support does not only help us meet our winners bonus program goal, but it also introduces our race teams to a company that can meet their race car needs.” Coply goes onto say, “JZ Motorsports Parts & Fabrication can build brand new Pro4 racecars, or bring new life and winning ways to old Pro4 cars.”
JZ Motorsports Parts & Fabrication has proven experience that is backed up with numerous championships to make sure you’re in the winners circle. The JZ Motorsport Parts & Fabrication 40 will be part of a weekend full of pageantry, color and excitement, as the cars and stars of the Northwest Pro4 Alliance make their first visit to Evergreen Speedway on this history-making NASCAR weekend.
NWP4A Media/Bob Coply
The JZ Motorsport Parts & Fabrication 40 will bring top teams from across the Northwest and as far away as Southern California to take part in the K&N Filter Pro Series West weekend. The NASCAR star-studded event on the famed 5/8-mile track located in Monroe, WA, will mark the return of NASCAR to the Northwest.
Northwest Pro4 Alliance marketing director, Bob Coply states, “Having John and Stephanie’s support does not only help us meet our winners bonus program goal, but it also introduces our race teams to a company that can meet their race car needs.” Coply goes onto say, “JZ Motorsports Parts & Fabrication can build brand new Pro4 racecars, or bring new life and winning ways to old Pro4 cars.”
JZ Motorsports Parts & Fabrication has proven experience that is backed up with numerous championships to make sure you’re in the winners circle. The JZ Motorsport Parts & Fabrication 40 will be part of a weekend full of pageantry, color and excitement, as the cars and stars of the Northwest Pro4 Alliance make their first visit to Evergreen Speedway on this history-making NASCAR weekend.
NWP4A Media/Bob Coply
Racing on TV, Feb. 16-20
Wednesday, February 16, all times Eastern
NASCAR Sprint Cup practice Daytona 10:30am-12:00pm
NASCAR Sprint Cup practice Daytona 1:30pm-3:00pm
Camping World Truck Series practice Daytona 4:30pm-7:00pm
Thursday, February 17, all times Eastern
Camping World Truck Series practice Daytona 12:00pm-1:00pm
NASCAR Sprint Cup races Daytona 2:00pm-5:30pm Gatorade Duels
Camping World Truck Series qualifying Daytona 6:30pm-8:00pm
Friday, February 18, all times Eastern
NASCAR Sprint Cup practice Daytona 11:00am-2:00pm
NASCAR Nationwide Series qualifying Daytona 1:00pm-3pm
NASCAR Camping World Truck race Daytona
7:00pm-7:30pm prerace
7:30pm-10:00pm race NextEra Energy Resources 250
Saturday, February 19, all times Eastern
NASCAR Nationwide Series race Daytona
12:00pm-1:15pm prerace
1:15pm-4:00pm race DRIVE4COPD 300
Sunday, February 20, all times Eastern
NASCAR Sprint Cup Daytona 500 Daytona
12:00pm-1:00pm prerace
1:00pm-5:00pm race Daytona 500
NASCAR Sprint Cup practice Daytona 10:30am-12:00pm
NASCAR Sprint Cup practice Daytona 1:30pm-3:00pm
Camping World Truck Series practice Daytona 4:30pm-7:00pm
Thursday, February 17, all times Eastern
Camping World Truck Series practice Daytona 12:00pm-1:00pm
NASCAR Sprint Cup races Daytona 2:00pm-5:30pm Gatorade Duels
Camping World Truck Series qualifying Daytona 6:30pm-8:00pm
Friday, February 18, all times Eastern
NASCAR Sprint Cup practice Daytona 11:00am-2:00pm
NASCAR Nationwide Series qualifying Daytona 1:00pm-3pm
NASCAR Camping World Truck race Daytona
7:00pm-7:30pm prerace
7:30pm-10:00pm race NextEra Energy Resources 250
Saturday, February 19, all times Eastern
NASCAR Nationwide Series race Daytona
12:00pm-1:15pm prerace
1:15pm-4:00pm race DRIVE4COPD 300
Sunday, February 20, all times Eastern
NASCAR Sprint Cup Daytona 500 Daytona
12:00pm-1:00pm prerace
1:00pm-5:00pm race Daytona 500
Thursday, February 10, 2011
CLOSE RACING HIGHLIGHTS ROUND 3 OF STARS OF PGP KART FALL-WINTER SERIES
KENT, Wash. — (Feb. 10, 2011) The Big Game was later in the day but rather than spend hours in front of the TV being bored with pre-game filler, a good crowd of racers headed out to PGP Motorsports Park last Sunday for Round 3 of the Stars of PGP Kart Fall-Winter Series.
The weather and PGP’s track crew had some extra challenges in store for the field. Competitors started on a wet track thanks to early-day rain, but with no additional precipitation the surface dried out during the course of the day and some teams gambled on using slicks instead of wet-weather tires.
PGP tried out a revised start procedure for clockwise races that was positively received by the racers in attendance. Under this revision, all competitors started on the front straight and took an immediate right onto the north part of the oval, bypassing the North end of the track on the first lap and keeping the racers in view of spectators in infield longer.
Round 3 of the Stars of PGP Kart Fall-Winter Series can be viewed on-demand from eventbuilder.com by following the link on www.PacificGP.com. The Stars of PGP Kart Fall & Winter Series returns to action with the series finale on March 6.
Rental class (B-Spec)
The largest field of the day included series regulars making their class debut, newcomers and drivers from other disciplines. Class veterans and series regulars Maurice Shawver and Jerry Peterson were once again the class of the field, with Shawver sweeping the day by qualifying on the pole and winning the pre-final and final races.
Shawver had to work to win the final, however, recovering from early-race contact and threading his way through the field before passing Peterson for the win. Mario Ayers finished third in the final, a nice rebound after an up-and-down pre-final.
Kory Estell got in some wet-weather racing while his Rotax Senior package was being prepared for the regular season, while PGP Lap Attack regular Hiroshi Kanno raced a kart for the first time. Paul Robertson and Nick South made the move from the Saturday-morning Rental Kart Racing Series while Bree Jacobs and Donald Baker made their Winter Series debuts as well.
World Formula
Nick Larson swept the class, winning the pole position as well as the pre-final and final, by putting together a solid day of racing. Kevin Larson recovered from contact at the start of the final to earn the runner-up position on the podium, with Jim Campbell coming back from a tough pre-final to earn third place in the final.
Stock Moto Light
The second largest class of the event put on a great show all day long, with Shifter Pro Matt Jaskol and teenager Brandon Scheiber battling from qualifying through to the final.
Jaskol won the duel in qualifying, taking the pole by just .04 seconds, but Scheiber prevailed in the pre-final, coming hard off the line to take the lead in turn 1 and then holding on for the victory. Jaskol returned the favor in the final, capitalizing on a hole-shot start to grab the lead en route to the checkered flag.
Brian Frank had been ahead of Parker McKean throughout the day, scoring a faster time in qualifying and holding off the young karter in the pre-final, but it was McKean who found a way by in the final to grabe the final podium spot.
Another great show to watch was the battle for fifth between Steve Perdue and Sean Naslund. Perdue gambled by using slicks while the rest of the field was on rain tires, and halfway through he began to march through the field toward the front. He got as far as Naslund with the laps winding down. The two traded positions a few times as Perdue went off the dry line to make passes and Naslund fought to hold his position on rain tires that were failing. Perdue eventually held on for fifth place.
Tag Senior
The TaG Senior class featured another great all-day duel, this time between Jessica Dana and Kyle Byers with Dana earning the sweep. Slower traffic had both searching for open track to put down a clean lap in qualifying, with Dana getting the opening she needed on the final lap to take the pole by .016 seconds.
Byers was the quickest in practice and appeared to have the kart to beat, but a failing battery steadily sapped power from his Rotax powerplant. He took the lead at the start of the pre-final, but Dana was able to get around him late in the going for the victory. In the final, it was Dana’s turn to take the lead at the start, with Byers unable to match her pace, eventually pulling off when his engine quit.
Paige Wallin and Nicole Bell would make the final an all-female podium by finishing second and third, respectively. It was the first outing in a competition kart for Bell, who is normally a drag racer. Wallin treated the crowd to two stellar runs to the front in the final and pre-final. She started both races in the rear of the field after weighing in 2 lbs light, but worked her way smartly through traffic to earn a podium in each.
Rotax Senior & Master
Jeremy Bolstad won the final in his first Rotax Senior start, making him 2-for-2 on the day after winning the F200 class earlier in the day. Gambling on slicks over rain tires didn’t work out as well for Thor Hatton, who finishing second after recovering from an early spin and running out of time to challenge for the lead. Travis Henson, who earned the pole in qualifying and won the pre-final, completed the podium in third. Henson had a comfortable lead in the final but his motor gave up.
In Rotax Master, Jerry Peterson made up for his narrow loss in the rental kart class with a decisive win, cutting lap times that were good enough to keep up with the Senior class. Jim Nelson returned to the track after a long hiatus, putting in a solid run en route to finishing second.
Single entry classes
In addition to Bolstad’s win in the F200 class, several other drivers took home trophies with single-entry victories while at the same time gaining valuable seat time in wet conditions. These included brother and sister tandem Tessa Daniells and Caleb Daniells in the Rotax Junior and Rotax Micro classes, respectively, Justin Taylor in TaG Junior and Bruce McKean in Stock Moto Heavy.
On the Web: Visit www.pacificgp.com, become a fan of “Pacific Grand Prix” on Facebook or follow @pacificgp on Twitter.
About PGP Motorsports Park: PGP Motorsports Park is the Northwest’s premier multi-purpose racing facility and is located in close proximity to the greater Seattle metropolitan area. Named “Best Guys Weekend Destination” for 2010 in the KING 5 Evening Magazine Best of Western Washington contest, the track is easy to get to and inexpensive to utilize, making PGP a rare combination of top-level racing excitement and affordability. For more information on PGP events and services, visit www.pacificgp.com or call (253) 639-7223.
PGP Motorsports media contact: Paul Zalud, (206) 390-9858, paul@pacificgp.com
The weather and PGP’s track crew had some extra challenges in store for the field. Competitors started on a wet track thanks to early-day rain, but with no additional precipitation the surface dried out during the course of the day and some teams gambled on using slicks instead of wet-weather tires.
PGP tried out a revised start procedure for clockwise races that was positively received by the racers in attendance. Under this revision, all competitors started on the front straight and took an immediate right onto the north part of the oval, bypassing the North end of the track on the first lap and keeping the racers in view of spectators in infield longer.
Round 3 of the Stars of PGP Kart Fall-Winter Series can be viewed on-demand from eventbuilder.com by following the link on www.PacificGP.com. The Stars of PGP Kart Fall & Winter Series returns to action with the series finale on March 6.
Rental class (B-Spec)
The largest field of the day included series regulars making their class debut, newcomers and drivers from other disciplines. Class veterans and series regulars Maurice Shawver and Jerry Peterson were once again the class of the field, with Shawver sweeping the day by qualifying on the pole and winning the pre-final and final races.
Shawver had to work to win the final, however, recovering from early-race contact and threading his way through the field before passing Peterson for the win. Mario Ayers finished third in the final, a nice rebound after an up-and-down pre-final.
Kory Estell got in some wet-weather racing while his Rotax Senior package was being prepared for the regular season, while PGP Lap Attack regular Hiroshi Kanno raced a kart for the first time. Paul Robertson and Nick South made the move from the Saturday-morning Rental Kart Racing Series while Bree Jacobs and Donald Baker made their Winter Series debuts as well.
World Formula
Nick Larson swept the class, winning the pole position as well as the pre-final and final, by putting together a solid day of racing. Kevin Larson recovered from contact at the start of the final to earn the runner-up position on the podium, with Jim Campbell coming back from a tough pre-final to earn third place in the final.
Stock Moto Light
The second largest class of the event put on a great show all day long, with Shifter Pro Matt Jaskol and teenager Brandon Scheiber battling from qualifying through to the final.
Jaskol won the duel in qualifying, taking the pole by just .04 seconds, but Scheiber prevailed in the pre-final, coming hard off the line to take the lead in turn 1 and then holding on for the victory. Jaskol returned the favor in the final, capitalizing on a hole-shot start to grab the lead en route to the checkered flag.
Brian Frank had been ahead of Parker McKean throughout the day, scoring a faster time in qualifying and holding off the young karter in the pre-final, but it was McKean who found a way by in the final to grabe the final podium spot.
Another great show to watch was the battle for fifth between Steve Perdue and Sean Naslund. Perdue gambled by using slicks while the rest of the field was on rain tires, and halfway through he began to march through the field toward the front. He got as far as Naslund with the laps winding down. The two traded positions a few times as Perdue went off the dry line to make passes and Naslund fought to hold his position on rain tires that were failing. Perdue eventually held on for fifth place.
Tag Senior
The TaG Senior class featured another great all-day duel, this time between Jessica Dana and Kyle Byers with Dana earning the sweep. Slower traffic had both searching for open track to put down a clean lap in qualifying, with Dana getting the opening she needed on the final lap to take the pole by .016 seconds.
Byers was the quickest in practice and appeared to have the kart to beat, but a failing battery steadily sapped power from his Rotax powerplant. He took the lead at the start of the pre-final, but Dana was able to get around him late in the going for the victory. In the final, it was Dana’s turn to take the lead at the start, with Byers unable to match her pace, eventually pulling off when his engine quit.
Paige Wallin and Nicole Bell would make the final an all-female podium by finishing second and third, respectively. It was the first outing in a competition kart for Bell, who is normally a drag racer. Wallin treated the crowd to two stellar runs to the front in the final and pre-final. She started both races in the rear of the field after weighing in 2 lbs light, but worked her way smartly through traffic to earn a podium in each.
Rotax Senior & Master
Jeremy Bolstad won the final in his first Rotax Senior start, making him 2-for-2 on the day after winning the F200 class earlier in the day. Gambling on slicks over rain tires didn’t work out as well for Thor Hatton, who finishing second after recovering from an early spin and running out of time to challenge for the lead. Travis Henson, who earned the pole in qualifying and won the pre-final, completed the podium in third. Henson had a comfortable lead in the final but his motor gave up.
In Rotax Master, Jerry Peterson made up for his narrow loss in the rental kart class with a decisive win, cutting lap times that were good enough to keep up with the Senior class. Jim Nelson returned to the track after a long hiatus, putting in a solid run en route to finishing second.
Single entry classes
In addition to Bolstad’s win in the F200 class, several other drivers took home trophies with single-entry victories while at the same time gaining valuable seat time in wet conditions. These included brother and sister tandem Tessa Daniells and Caleb Daniells in the Rotax Junior and Rotax Micro classes, respectively, Justin Taylor in TaG Junior and Bruce McKean in Stock Moto Heavy.
On the Web: Visit www.pacificgp.com, become a fan of “Pacific Grand Prix” on Facebook or follow @pacificgp on Twitter.
About PGP Motorsports Park: PGP Motorsports Park is the Northwest’s premier multi-purpose racing facility and is located in close proximity to the greater Seattle metropolitan area. Named “Best Guys Weekend Destination” for 2010 in the KING 5 Evening Magazine Best of Western Washington contest, the track is easy to get to and inexpensive to utilize, making PGP a rare combination of top-level racing excitement and affordability. For more information on PGP events and services, visit www.pacificgp.com or call (253) 639-7223.
PGP Motorsports media contact: Paul Zalud, (206) 390-9858, paul@pacificgp.com
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Racing on TV, Feb. 11-13
All times Eastern. Check local listings or cable/satellite guides for updated air times.
FRIDAY FEBRUARY 11
1:00-2:30pm SPEED: NASCAR Media Day, 2011 preview, Daytona, Fla. (L)
5:00-6:00pm SPEED: NASCAR Sprint Cup Budweiser Shootout practice, Daytona, Fla. (L)
6:30-7:30pm SPEED: NASCAR Sprint Cup Budweiser Shootout final practice, Daytona, Fla. (L)
8:00-10:30pm SPEED: NASCAR Sprint Cup Budweiser Shootout selection show, Daytona, Fla. (L)
SATURDAY FEBRUARY 12
4:30-6:30pm SPEED: ARCA stock car series race, Daytona, Fla. (L)
11:00am-1:00pm SPEED: NASCAR Sprint Cup Daytona 500 practice, Daytona, Fla. (L)
2:00-4:00pm SPEED: NASCAR Sprint Cup Daytona 500 practice, Daytona, Fla. (L)
8:00-10:00pm FOX: FOX Sprint Cup Budweiser Shootout race, Daytona, Fla. (L)
SUNDAY FEBRUARY 13
1:00-3:00pm FOX: NASCAR Sprint Cup Daytona 500 qualifying, Daytona, Fla. (L)
FRIDAY FEBRUARY 11
1:00-2:30pm SPEED: NASCAR Media Day, 2011 preview, Daytona, Fla. (L)
5:00-6:00pm SPEED: NASCAR Sprint Cup Budweiser Shootout practice, Daytona, Fla. (L)
6:30-7:30pm SPEED: NASCAR Sprint Cup Budweiser Shootout final practice, Daytona, Fla. (L)
8:00-10:30pm SPEED: NASCAR Sprint Cup Budweiser Shootout selection show, Daytona, Fla. (L)
SATURDAY FEBRUARY 12
4:30-6:30pm SPEED: ARCA stock car series race, Daytona, Fla. (L)
11:00am-1:00pm SPEED: NASCAR Sprint Cup Daytona 500 practice, Daytona, Fla. (L)
2:00-4:00pm SPEED: NASCAR Sprint Cup Daytona 500 practice, Daytona, Fla. (L)
8:00-10:00pm FOX: FOX Sprint Cup Budweiser Shootout race, Daytona, Fla. (L)
SUNDAY FEBRUARY 13
1:00-3:00pm FOX: NASCAR Sprint Cup Daytona 500 qualifying, Daytona, Fla. (L)
Friday, February 4, 2011
NEW I-5 SERIES INCENTIVE PROGRAMS REWARD TOP DRIVERS, SERIOUS RACERS
Pacific Northwest karters are excited and enthusiastic about the return of a racer’s racing series, where keeping costs low while maximizing fun and competition are priorities. But as they say on those late-night TV infomercials: WAIT, THERE’S MORE!
This year the eight-race I-5 series will be an official Rotax Max Challenge (RMC) Series, focused primarily on Rotax Max Classes and the SKUSA-based Stock Honda Shifter program. PARC and PGP are pleased to announce two great new incentive programs aimed at the region’s Rotax MiniMax and MicroMax drivers, thanks to some series sponsors who’ve asked to remain anonymous.
First, two I-5 Series drivers will receive free entry and transportation to the U.S. Rotax Max Challenge Grand Nationals to be held July 19-23 at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah.
The I-5 Series will have completed four rounds by July — May 2-3 at Pat’s Acres Racing Complex and June 2-3 at PGP Motorsports Park — and the top drivers in the MicroMax and MiniMax points standings will earn a prize package that includes equipment transportation to the U.S. Rotax Max Challenge Grand Nationals in Tooele along with paid entry fees to the race, race tires, fuel, and pit spaces for the U.S RMC Grand Nationals.
The second incentive will be the Multi-Race Discount Program — aimed exclusively at the region’s MiniMax and MicroMax drivers — where competitors who commit to the entire series can get up to 75% off entry fees.
All MiniMax and MicroMax drivers pay the regular entry fees for their first race weekend, but for their second race weekend entry fees will be reduced by 25%. Those drivers will get 50% off their third race weekend entry fees and any MiniMax or MicroMax drivers attending all four race weekends will get 75% off their final weekend’s entry fees.
“Growth for the series starts with the families and these incentive programs are a great way for us to support the foundation that will be key to seeing the sport of karting grow here in the Northwest,” said PGP owner and series co-founder Paul Zalud.
As it was last year, the I-5 Corridor Series will be contested over four weekends, using the double race weekend format for eight rounds (two throwaways) of action at two of the premier karting facilities in the Pacific Northwest. Series organizers have retained their dedication to keeping travel expenses down and maximizing track time for competitors.
The dates and locations are:
Races 1 and 2: Pats Acres Racing Complex (PARC), May 28-29
Races 3 and 4: PGP Motorsports Park (PGP), June 25-26
Races 5 and 6: PGP Motorsports Park (PGP), Aug. 27-28
Races 7 and 8: Pats Acres Racing Complex (PARC), Sept. 10-11
“These incentive programs just emphasize the fact that regional karters need to mark their race calendars now to make sure they don’t miss out on any of the action in the 2011 I-5 Corridor Series,” said Chris Eggers, PARC owner and series co-founder. “Stay tuned for more Series info and a brand new Series website coming soon.”
On the Web: To learn more about PGP, visit www.pacificgp.com, become a fan of “Pacific Grand Prix” on Facebook or follow @pacificgp on Twitter. To learn more about PARC, visit www.patsacres.com, become a fan of “Pat’s Acres Racing Complex” on Facebook or follow @patsacres on Twitter.
About PGP Motorsports Park: PGP Motorsports Park is the Northwest’s premier multi-purpose racing facility and is located in close proximity to the greater Seattle metropolitan area. Named “Best Guys Weekend Destination” for 2010 in the KING 5 Evening Magazine Best of Western Washington contest, the track is easy to get to and inexpensive to utilize, making PGP a rare combination of top-level racing excitement and affordability. For more information on PGP events and services, visit www.pacificgp.com or call (253) 639-7223.
PGP Motorsports media contact: Paul Zalud, (206) 390-9858, paul@pacificgp.com
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
XTREME DRIFT CIRCUIT SLATED TO COMPETE AT PGP IN AUGUST 2011
KENT, Wash. — (Feb. 2, 2011) This summer at PGP Motorsports Park just got a whole lot hotter. The premier motorsports venue in the Pacific Northwest is pleased to announce it will host the Xtreme Drift Circuit on Aug. 13-14 for one round of the 2011 XDC championship season.
"We are very excited to bring the Xtreme Drift Circuit to PGP Motorsports Park," said Mike Munar, president of XDC Events. "It is great to be able to work with a facility such as PGP which has really embraced its local drift scene. XDC is all about supporting the local drivers and we look forward to seeing what the drivers of the Pacific Northwest will be able to do."
Now in its sophomore season, the Xtreme Drift Circuit showcases the country’s rising drift stars while featuring an eight-round drifting championship set in a full-scale lifestyle festival.
What’s a lifestyle festival? Think of the music, food and fun PGP already offers during our drift events, MULTIPLY by five and add models as trophy girls.
As it says on the XDC website (www.xtremedriftcircuit.com): You’ll come for the cars but stay for the attractions.
XDC competitors come from Canada, Russia, Europe, Japan, and all across North America. Most XDC drivers are "privateers" who have the sole passion of getting on the track and drifting. As privateers, XDC drifters use their personal vehicles and are typically self-funded, with no major support other than their own determination and willingness to win.
The 2011 XDC National Championship will take points from four events – three divisional events (XDC East or XDC West) and the finale at Texas Motor Speedway. Drivers may compete in both divisions, but will only carry their highest divisional point total to the XDC Finale. The XDC National Championship will offer a $10,000 purse to the top three drivers.
PGP will be one of three new venues added to the XDR calendar, joining Central Florida Racing Complex in Orlando, Fla., and Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway.
The full 2011 XDC schedule:
• March 11-12 XDC West Irwindale Speedway, Irwindale, Calif.
• April 22-23 XDC West Firebird Raceway, Chandler, Ariz.
• May 14-15 XDC East Central Florida Racing Complex, Orlando, Fla.
• June 17-18 XDC East Summit Point Raceway, Summit Point, W.Va.
• July 2-3 XDC East Charlotte Motor Speedway, Charlotte, N.C.
• Aug. 13-14 XDC West PGP Motorsport Park, Kent, Wash.
• Sept. 4-5 XDC Internat’l Montreal, Quebec
• Sept. 23-24 XDC Finale Texas Motor Speedway, Fort Worth, Texas
Drivers qualify for the XDC Finale by entering at least one XDC East or XDC West event. Each divisional championship will feature a total purse of $3,000 divided amongst the top three in the championship. Each individual event will offer $9,000 paid out from first to eighth, as well as the top three in qualifying.
The XDC Montreal event will be XDC’s first International event and will not award points to the XDC East or West divisions, but will hand out $13,500 to the top-16.
Thanks to expanded support after a successful first season, XDC is able to invest in driver development with increased prizing in an effort to grow the sport. With a total payout of $92,400, XDC will be able to expand its support of the country’s grassroots and aspiring professional drifters with its Five Ways to Win – individual events, XDC Canada, XDC East, XDC West, and the XDC National Championship.
On the Web
For PGP Motorsports Park, visit www.pacificgp.com, become a fan of “Pacific Grand Prix” on Facebook or follow @pacificgp on Twitter.
For the Xtreme Drift Circuit, visit www.xtremedriftcircuit or become a fan of “Xtreme Drift Circuit” on Facebook.
About PGP Motorsports Park
PGP Motorsports Park is the Northwest’s premier multi-purpose racing facility and is located in close proximity to the greater Seattle metropolitan area. Named “Best Guys Weekend Destination” for 2010 in the KING 5 Evening Magazine Best of Western Washington contest, the track is easy to get to and inexpensive to utilize, making PGP a rare combination of top-level racing excitement and affordability. For more information on PGP events and services, visit www.pacificgp.com or call (253) 639-7223.
PGP Motorsports media contact
Paul Zalud, (206) 390-9858, paul@pacificgp.com
"We are very excited to bring the Xtreme Drift Circuit to PGP Motorsports Park," said Mike Munar, president of XDC Events. "It is great to be able to work with a facility such as PGP which has really embraced its local drift scene. XDC is all about supporting the local drivers and we look forward to seeing what the drivers of the Pacific Northwest will be able to do."
Now in its sophomore season, the Xtreme Drift Circuit showcases the country’s rising drift stars while featuring an eight-round drifting championship set in a full-scale lifestyle festival.
What’s a lifestyle festival? Think of the music, food and fun PGP already offers during our drift events, MULTIPLY by five and add models as trophy girls.
As it says on the XDC website (www.xtremedriftcircuit.com): You’ll come for the cars but stay for the attractions.
XDC competitors come from Canada, Russia, Europe, Japan, and all across North America. Most XDC drivers are "privateers" who have the sole passion of getting on the track and drifting. As privateers, XDC drifters use their personal vehicles and are typically self-funded, with no major support other than their own determination and willingness to win.
The 2011 XDC National Championship will take points from four events – three divisional events (XDC East or XDC West) and the finale at Texas Motor Speedway. Drivers may compete in both divisions, but will only carry their highest divisional point total to the XDC Finale. The XDC National Championship will offer a $10,000 purse to the top three drivers.
PGP will be one of three new venues added to the XDR calendar, joining Central Florida Racing Complex in Orlando, Fla., and Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway.
The full 2011 XDC schedule:
• March 11-12 XDC West Irwindale Speedway, Irwindale, Calif.
• April 22-23 XDC West Firebird Raceway, Chandler, Ariz.
• May 14-15 XDC East Central Florida Racing Complex, Orlando, Fla.
• June 17-18 XDC East Summit Point Raceway, Summit Point, W.Va.
• July 2-3 XDC East Charlotte Motor Speedway, Charlotte, N.C.
• Aug. 13-14 XDC West PGP Motorsport Park, Kent, Wash.
• Sept. 4-5 XDC Internat’l Montreal, Quebec
• Sept. 23-24 XDC Finale Texas Motor Speedway, Fort Worth, Texas
Drivers qualify for the XDC Finale by entering at least one XDC East or XDC West event. Each divisional championship will feature a total purse of $3,000 divided amongst the top three in the championship. Each individual event will offer $9,000 paid out from first to eighth, as well as the top three in qualifying.
The XDC Montreal event will be XDC’s first International event and will not award points to the XDC East or West divisions, but will hand out $13,500 to the top-16.
Thanks to expanded support after a successful first season, XDC is able to invest in driver development with increased prizing in an effort to grow the sport. With a total payout of $92,400, XDC will be able to expand its support of the country’s grassroots and aspiring professional drifters with its Five Ways to Win – individual events, XDC Canada, XDC East, XDC West, and the XDC National Championship.
On the Web
For PGP Motorsports Park, visit www.pacificgp.com, become a fan of “Pacific Grand Prix” on Facebook or follow @pacificgp on Twitter.
For the Xtreme Drift Circuit, visit www.xtremedriftcircuit or become a fan of “Xtreme Drift Circuit” on Facebook.
About PGP Motorsports Park
PGP Motorsports Park is the Northwest’s premier multi-purpose racing facility and is located in close proximity to the greater Seattle metropolitan area. Named “Best Guys Weekend Destination” for 2010 in the KING 5 Evening Magazine Best of Western Washington contest, the track is easy to get to and inexpensive to utilize, making PGP a rare combination of top-level racing excitement and affordability. For more information on PGP events and services, visit www.pacificgp.com or call (253) 639-7223.
PGP Motorsports media contact
Paul Zalud, (206) 390-9858, paul@pacificgp.com
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