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2005 NEWS: US MOTORSPORTS

PRESS RELEASE

NASCAR: KURT BUSCH TO JOIN PENSKE IN 2007 (AUG 12, 2005)

The reigning Nascar champion Kurt Busch has decided to leave Roush Racing in favour of Penske. He is hoping to be released from his 2006 contract with Roush but will drive Penske Racing South #2 car from 2007.

KURT BUSCH, JACK ROUSH AND MARK MARTIN COMMENT ON BUSCH'S DECISION TO LEAVE ROUSH RACING

• KURT BUSCH – No. 97 Sharpie Taurus – “I’m still contractually obligated to drive this car in 2005 and in 2006. I told Jack that. I signed with a different team for 2007 because of opportunities and timing. I believe it was good for Kurt Busch, but I’m still obligated to drive this car, which I told Jack I’d do, and he jumped the gun on things, so we’ll see where it shakes up from here.”
  JACK SAID THAT YOU TOLD HIM THAT IT WAS AN OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFETIME. WHAT MAKES IT THAT? “It’s really a matter of surrounding yourself with the right equipment in a timing manner. I believe with the way that I’m set up right now we still have a shot at winning the championship this year, as well as 2006. When 2007 arrives, it will be a whole new opportunity to see what I can do to win races.”
• HOW MUCH OF THAT TRANSFERS TO CREW CHIEF JIMMY FENNIG? “Jimmy Fennig is the key ingredient that makes this 97 car run. It’s why I want to stick around for another year. It’s why I want to give 2006 to Roush Racing. And if we can’t work it out, then we can’t work it out. But, Jimmy Fennig is a true champion in everybody’s mind. I was able to bring him that. He’s got stats that rival the best, and right now he is the veteran crew chief of the garage area.”
• WHAT DO YOU MEAN THAT JACK JUMPED THE GUN? “I let him know that I’m contractually obligated, I’m happy to fulfill those obligations to drive for Roush racing for ’05 and ’06, and it’s Jack’s decision. We’ll see what happens.”
• CAN YOU TALK ABOUT TUESDAY’S MEETING? “I think it went smooth. I can’t speak on Jack’s behalf, I’d just be speculating. It was something to where I told Jack he’s given me everything that he’s given me in Cup racing, and he has. It’s been a great start. I’m looking forward to a new opportunity.”
• WOULDN’T IT BE BETTER IF YOU ACTUALLY WERE ABLE TO GO OVER THERE AND START NEXT YEAR? WOULDN’T IT BE BETTER FOR EVERYBODY? “You could speculate that. For me, I’m happy wherever I go. Two thousand six is a question mark, but I know that I’ve got a great opportunity to win races with both programs.”
• WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT YOUR NEW OPPORTUNITY? “It’s too early to talk about ’07 stuff. Right now, I’ve got 2005 to drive for this championship. We’re in good position. We’re fifth in points, we’ve got five races to go and then we jump into the Chase. So, that’s where we sit. It’s hard to go into the future.”
• DID YOU TALK TO ROUSH AT ALL TO SEE WHETHER YOU COULD WORK OUT AN EXTENSION TO STAY THERE, STARTING IN 2007? “Those were things that were discussed. Contracts seem to start earlier and earlier. Geoff Smith came to me with that question, and I’ve been waiting to hear back, and so we talked about things, but everybody’s got to look out for themselves. I know that Geoff Smith was, I know that Jack is, I know that Roger did, and I know that I did.”
• HOW DO YOU KEEP THE CHEMISTRY TOGETHER FOR THE REST OF THE SEASON? “The chemistry is great with our program. We’re a strong team, on what we did last year, at this point. And just the speech and the motivation that I gave them today, they know that it wasn’t them, they know that it wasn’t me, they know that it’s not Roush Racing, they know that it’s this business. And, they’re here to give 100 percent, just like I’m going to give 150 percent to try to win this championship this year, and for ’06.”
• WHAT WAS THE SPEECH YOU GAVE THE TEAM TODAY? “The crew understand that they have a job to do, and I’ve got a job to do – let’s go focus on that.”
• FANS ARE TALKING ABOUT THE MONEY AND WANT TO KNOW DID YOU LEAVE FOR THE MONEY? “Obviously, that’s a speculation. I can’t comment on what the terms are and contractual obligations, but what I can tell you is that I am contractually obligated to drive 2005 as well as 2006 for Roush Racing. It’s up to Jack for 2006, and I’ll move over to Penske Racing South in 2007.”
• DID YOU TALK TO MATT KENSETH AND GREG BIFFLE? “I did. I talked with Kenseth, a champion in 2003, a guy that I’ve looked up to since I’ve been to Roush Racing. I looked up to Greg Biffle when I came here in the Truck program. I’ve looked up to Mark Martin since I was a kid racing cars. I had a great talk with all of them. They’re all in their opinions, and we had a great discussion with all of them and I’m just happy tat they were cordial with it, and now we move on to our next portion of this season, which is this championship run.”
• WHEN WERE YOU FIRST CONTACTED BY PENSKE? “I can’t disclose that right now.”
• WAS IT A HARD DECISION FOR YOU TO MAKE? “Very difficult. It was more of the crew, and, of course, Jimmy Fennig was the toughest person, and he was the first person I told about this whole situation. And bringing it about in this time of year gives everybody ample opportunity to work in the direction they need to go. But right now the 97 team is focused on winning this year’s championship.”
• WOULD YOU LIKE TO TAKE JIMMY WITH YOU? “That’s up to Jimmy Fennig. I can’t speculate on what he’d like to do.”
• JACK ROUSH – owner, Roush Racing – DID TUESDAY’S ANNOUNCEMENT CATCH YOU BY SURPRISE? “Yes.” CAN YOU DESCRIBE WHAT HAPPENED ON TUESDAY? “On Monday I had an indication through my secretary who schedules my day, Tuesday is a business day in North Carolina. A message came back that Kurt wanted to see me early on Tuesday, that he had a commitment, he had to leave and he wanted to see first thing Tuesday. So, I arrived at the shop expecting to see him. At 8:05 we were together in a conference room, and he told me that he recognized that he would not be in this business if I hadn’t have found him and/or had competition where he was able to show what he could do. That we discovered him, basically, and that we’d surrounded him with people that had supported his talent and created the opportunities for him, and even though sometimes he hadn’t recognized that he needed those people for what they could do for him, so we agreed on that. And the third thing he said, and it came right of the blue, he said, ‘But I am faced with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,’ I don’t know what he had been faced with before with the things that just preceded that, but he said, I’m faced now with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to do something that I think I must do, and I think it’s time for me to go. He said, I don’t want to negotiate with you for 2007. I said, Okay. And he said, I want to be released for 2006. I said, Not okay. I said, You’ve got commitments to me and I’ve got commitments to sponsors, and I said, We’ll have to work our way through this, but the thing I’ll give you today is that, speaking for Jack, personally, you shouldn’t expect a release for 2006.”
• HAVE PLANS FOR THE FUTURE BEGUN? “Sure. We’re having discussions with our sponsors which are center to it, Newell Rubbermaid and Diagio, to discuss what they would like to have and what they would see going forward. And, right now, there has not been a decision made about 2006, but I stand ready to say 2006 is important, 2006 is important to me and my sponsors, and I’m anxious to keep my commitment to Kurt and have him keep his commitment to me, unless something changes and is brought to my attention.”
• MARK MARTIN – No. 6 Viagra Taurus – “As long as people do – this is me, of course – as long as people do as they said they would do, then anyone who makes a choice to do something different, as long as they fulfill obligations, then it’s a free world and they should do that. No one should necessarily feel like they need to stay with one team for 18 years like I have. If they feel like their career would be better served do something else, then they should – as long as they fulfill what they signed. And, in Jamie McMurray’s case, I don’t think he even asked for a release. I think he hoped for one, but I don’t think that Jamie even asked for one. In Kurt’s case, he asked for one, but, at this point, hadn’t demanded it, so, I think, maybe, possibly, slighter bigger deal made of all that than needs to be because these guys decided that they would like to do something different from what they’re doing, and actually haven’t said anything about not fulfilling their obligations.”
• WHAT IS IT LIKE TO DRIVE FOR JACK ROUSH? THERE ARE A LOT OF TOP-NOTCH DRIVERS RACING THERE. IT IS SURPRISING WHEN A CHAMPION LEAVES FOR A SMALLER TEAM. “You’re going to have to ask Kurt about his motivations for wanting to do something different. Obviously, I don’t think has anything to do with the performance. He’s got top-notch car and team, and I’m sure that Kurt will tell you that he feels comfortable with that. It’s a great place to work if you’re very involved. From a driver’s standpoint, if you’re involved with the race car, it’s a great place to work. If you show up at the race track with a helmet-and-bag-kind-of-guy, it’s probably not better than most, because the opportunities here are that you can make a difference in the outcome of your career by having a say and being able to have impact on what happens with your team, with your hardware, with your equipment, and everything. That’s the strong point, that’s what makes this place great for Matt Kenseth. It made it great for Jeff Burton. It made it, obviously, great for me, although in the earlier years I had less influence on things than I have had in the later years, but that was all part of the growth process. That was before we had multi-car teams or when we had one additional car and Roush Racing was trying to get their legs under ’em.”
• ARE THERE TOO MANY BIG DRIVERS THERE? IS THERE A POINT OF NO RETURN WHEN THERE CAN BE TOO MANY BIG NAMES? “I think you’re over-analyzing here. I think that Kurt Busch has looked at this thing and decided that he might like to do something different with his career. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that?”
• WHAT ABOUT JIMMY FENNIG, THE CREW CHIEF OF THE NO. 97? YOU WORKED WITH HIM BEFORE. HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO KEEP CHEMISTRY WITH THE TEAM IN A SITUATION LIKE THIS? “That would be the only challenge, I think, right now, is to keep the team charged up behind Kurt. Beyond that, it’ll be a non-issue for the team’s performance. Everyone seems to not understand that it doesn’t matter what you climb in, you want to win the same. No matter what you’re going to do tomorrow, and no matter what you did yesterday. From a driver’s standpoint, it doesn’t matter. It doesn’t matter. That does not matter. It doesn’t have any impact on what kind of effort that the guy gives. They all have huge egos. They all want to win every time they climb into anything, and, if anything else, they’d rather win in a situation that looked less promising. So, I would imagine that Kurt Busch would want to win every race the rest of the year and say, ‘See, I can get this done even though…’”
• WHY HAVE YOU BEEN SO LOYAL TO JACK OVER THE YEARS? “There’s a lot of small reasons, but I think if you go all the way to root, I think that it is the way I was raised. There was one thing that my dad told me when I was a little-bitty guy, and I said, ‘Why are you doing this?’ And what it was, it was hurting my dad, it was not the right thing for my dad, and he said, ‘Because I gave my word.’ And, to be real honest with you, I’ve never been anywhere near the end of a contract. I’ve never been closer than two and a half years from the end of a contract. That’s good strategy by Roush Racing and Geoff Smith. That’s only a symptom, but the real root is that you do what you agree to do, and that’s it. And, for me, I’ve never wanted to do something else bad enough to not re-do my deal for a longer term for a better deal – which they always do. See, most contracts, whatever term they are, go full term. Mine has never gone more than two-thirds of a term, and then I’ve gotten a new contract for a better deal.”
• BUT IT’S NOT THE CONTRACT THAT’S KEPT YOU WITH JACK. “No.”
• YOU HAVE A RELATIONSHIP WITH JACK THAT’S BIGGER THAN THE CONRACT. “Yeah. Yeah, because I don’t have a contract for ’06 and don’t care if I ever have one. That’s correct. But in ’92 that might’ve been a different story, four years in with Jack Roush. You see what I mean? Before, four years into the thing, that might have made a difference. As far as I’m concerned, we don’t need any more contracts, and I’m hoping that Jack would feel the same way. I’m not saying we won’t have, because our company is run by an attorney, so I’m sure we will have, but it wouldn’t matter if we did or not. Because that takes time to build.”
• DID YOU KNOW THAT KURT WAS UNHAPPY? DID YOU SENSE THAT THIS WAS GOING TO HAPPEN? “I know Kurt has been a little bit frustrated, because what has happened with Kurt Busch is his career has progressed faster than the business side can keep up with. He’s operating under a sponsorship that was laid out before he was champion, not after he was champion. So, it takes time. There’s a lag, especially when you come up the ladder as fast as Kurt did, there’s a certain lag. These are long-term contracts with sponsors, and there’s a lag. You don’t get the payoff for performance until later. That’s a fact. I’ve experienced that. But mine wasn’t as fast as his, and so I understand that. That is something that will drive you crazy.”
• DID IT SHOCK YOU WHEN YOU HEARD THE NEWS? “Well, I didn’t see it coming. I thought because Kurt was really the model teammate, better than you could dream of having, that I guess I mistook that for also being a life-timer company guy, because he’s been so good about things, and such a good teammate on and off the race track. I’m a big Kurt Busch fan. There’s nothing that Kurt Busch could ever do that could change my feelings toward him. I’m his number one fan and always will be. So, I may not even be objective in answering these questions, because I’m a Kurt Busch fan. He may make a mistake here or there, but he doesn’t do a lot of wrong in my eyes, because I’m a big fan of his.”
• HAVE YOU TALKED TO JACK AT ALL? “I talked to him Tuesday afternoon and he was putting on a strong front. And that’s the only time I talked to him. I called him, concerned about how he was doing, and he seemed to be putting on a strong front about it. This is a big, strong organization, and it can survive a lot of different blows. You know, he went down in a lake and temporarily drowned not too long ago, and we survived that – just to put it in perspective.” (FORD MEDIA)

AIGP: United States Joins A1 Grand Prix International Race Series (AUG 4, 2005)

• U.S. to Compete in Open Wheel Series on Five Continents - Technology Entrepreneur/Former IRL Owner to Spearhead Team USA. WASHINGTON, D.C. – The United States has entered the inaugural World Cup of Motorsport.
  A1 Team USA, representing the United States, will enter and compete against teams from up to 24 other countries in a calendar of 12 racing events on five continents. A1 Grand Prix is an internationally recognized, FIA sanctioned open wheel racing series. Today’s announcement comes in anticipation of A1 Team USA’s participation in the test event scheduled to begin on Wednesday, August 3, at Silverstone Circuit in Northamptonshire, Great Britain.
• An historic first in the annals of international motorsport, A1 Grand Prix will pit nation against nation. Each country will be represented by only one competitive team, featuring the best drivers, crews, mechanics and team owners. The series begins on September 25 at Brands Hatch, Great Britain and ends in Shanghai, China on March 26, 2006. Two events are scheduled for the United States in San Antonio, TX and Monterrey, CA in March of next year. The international tour will also include racing events in Germany, Portugal, Australia, Malaysia, United Arab Emirates, Indonesia or Singapore, South Africa and Mexico.
• Spearheading the USA entry into the competition is Washington D.C.-based telecommunications entrepreneur Rick Weidinger. Previously a co-owner of one of the premier teams on the Indy Racing League (IRL) circuit, Weidinger assembled the foundation of his team in preparation for this week’s test session. Weidinger indicated that there would be more announcements in the days and weeks ahead concerning A1 Team USA, and issued the following statement as part of today’s announcement: “It is an honor to join A1 Grand Prix and to represent the United States in this international competition. Each team will carry its country’s flag and compete with the same passion and spirit of the Olympic Games, World Cup Soccer, America’s Cup and the Ryder and President’s Cups. We intend to field a team of the finest drivers and racing crews as we compete on behalf of the United States. But at the same time, we fully recognize the important role of international sportsmanship, cooperation and goodwill among nations that are the fundamental essence of A1 Grand Prix.”
• Prior to his ownership of a professional sports team, Weidinger had worked at the forefront of technology. As a CEO and telecommunications entrepreneur, he played central roles in the founding and growth of multiple emerging technology companies. In addition to the sale of his privately held telecommunications company, Weidinger was actively involved in a number of multi-billion dollar mergers and acquisitions. He currently serves as a director on the boards of several corporations.
• A1 Grand Prix was founded by Sheikh Maktoum Hasher Maktoum Al Maktoum, a member of the ruling family of Dubai, UAE. Sheikh Maktoum, a majority owner of the World Cup of Motorsport, issued the following statement: “Our objective is to spread the excitement of world class auto racing and international competition beyond its traditional European and American roots to people in other parts of the world. I sincerely hope that with the excitement of this international series, we might engender a bit more goodwill among nations. I am particularly gratified by the willing involvement of world leaders such as Nelson Mandela of South Africa and Pakistani President General Perviz Musharaf, as well as international soccer superstars Luis Figo of Portugal and Ronaldo of Brazil and other high profile personalities, who have played a role in making this effort come together. I proudly welcome A1 Team USA to the A1 Grand Prix Family.”
• For additional information, including a schedule of international racing events and a countdown to the inaugural race in Brands Hatch, Great Britain on September 25, 2005, visit www.a1gp.com.

INDYCAR: Manning loses Ganassi drive (JULY 27, 2005)

29 year old British driver Darren Manning has lost his drive with Chip Gannassi Racing. He joined IndyCar in 2004 after spending a year in Champcars. Prior to that he had been a Formula 1 test driver with BAR Honda team. Manning's best result in IndyCar has been 4th.
GANASSI (Chip Ganassi): "Darren did a great job for us and we were very happy to have had him as part of our team. The team does regret that we weren't able to bring him to Victory Circle in our time together, but we certainly wish him the best of luck in his racing career."
MANNING: "It was a real shock when I discovered that I was surplus to requirements at TCGR. It was a dream come true to be chosen as a driver for one of the top teams in American motor racing, and I have enjoyed my time here, and scored some good results in the past eighteen months. It's really disappointing, but I've been in a lot worse situations than this. Chip hasn't cut my legs off; he hasn't shot me. I'm still breathing, so everything will be all right. This isn't but a dent in my ambition at all. It might even make things better. I learned of the decision Tuesday morning during what I expected to be a routine meeting with team director Mike Hull. Ganassi had told Mike moments before by phone that I would not be with the team this weekend at Michigan and that the team would not pick up the option on my contract for 2006. The weekend at Milwaukee started well, and I was a comfortable 4th quickest on Friday. However, after Ryan crashed heavily on Saturday, both Scott Dixon and myself were under pressure to preserve the team equipment! It was difficult in these conditions to push to the limit in qualifying and similarly in the race, with the tricky hot conditions meaning my car was very loose, I just didn't want to risk another shunt for the team. I've got to move on in my career now and get back to something good. I'll only take a top-level drive. I don't need to take a low-level drive that I'm unable to win in. Maybe this is good for me. It might be the best thing that's ever happened to me. I don't wish anybody any harm or malice over it. I have received fantastic support from the fans and I can guarantee that I'll be back soon, racing to win as always!"

AMA SUPERBIKE: Vincent Haskovec Benefit Auction (JUNE 22, 2005)

Team M4 EMGO Suzuki’s Formula Extreme rider Vincent Haskovec, currently recovering from the severe injuries he suffered in his devastating crash at Infineon Raceway, is the focus of AMA road racing’s largest charity online auction. Top riders in the AMA, MotoGP, and World Superbike paddock are donating their leathers and helmets - to be auctioned through Race Promotion Management (RPM) and The Wegman Benefit Fund - to help offset the huge medical costs already besetting this beloved rider.

The Vincent Haskovec Benefit Auction will begin at midnight June 13 and run through midnight August 28. You can view pictures of all items to be auctioned and make your bids at www.rpmcolorado.com. At the auction’s conclusion (and after proceeds are collected), there will be a check presentation in the winners’ circle at Road Atlanta. This will occur on September 4 – immediately following the final Superbike race during Road Atlanta’s AMA season finale.

With many fantastic items up for bid, there is sure to be a substantial amount of money raised for Vincent and his long-term medical care. Donations have already been received from Eric Bostrom, who was the first to offer his racing leathers. Eric also donated his purse from Pikes Peak, and went out of his way to encourage others to follow suit. Items up for bid have been received from Ben Attard, Ben Bostrom, Damon Buckmaster, Chris Carr, Mike Ciccotto, Troy Corser, Jason DiSalvo, Miguel Duhamel, Colin Edwards, Aaron Gobert, Jamie Hacking, John Haner, Tommy, Nicky and Roger Lee Hayden, Josh Hayes, Neil Hodgson, John Hopkins, Mat Mladin, Johnny Murphree, Jason Pridmore, Steve Rapp, Chad Reed, Kurtis Roberts, Scott Russell, Kevin Schwantz, Ben Spies, Sebastian Tortelli, Aaron Yates and Jake Zemke. These items include helmets, leathers, boots, gloves, autographed prints and photos, gear bags, team shirts, etc. There will also be two 2006 Kevin Schwantz Suzuki Schools and a Danny Walker Super Camp up for auction.

The Wegman Benefit Fund will collect, manage and distribute these funds to allow Vincent time to concentrate on getting well without worrying about the financial consequences of his accident. The non-profit, 501(c)(3), tax-deductible organization was established in 1987 for the purpose of assisting motorcycle road racers seriously injured in racing accidents. To date, The Wegman Fund has paid out over $170,000 for racers of all levels of competition and racing organizations across the country.

It has taken a tremendous amount of effort to put this together. Many thanks goes to all of those who worked so hard to organize the auction and collect gear, namely Morgan Broadhead – American Suzuki, Leah Sherritt - AMA, Cameron Gray - RPM, Sheri Russell – Cycle News, Jodi May, Marnie Lincoln – Road Atlanta, Bart Moore, and Gordon & Laura Lunde – The Wegman Benefit Fund. Also, we’d like to thank all the riders for their incredible generosity. Their heartfelt gifts are most appreciated.

For all questions regarding the auction, or items you would like to donate, please contact Leah Sherritt at leah@idbcorp.com, or Cameron Gray at ctg70@aol.com – RPM, 7951 East Maplewood Avenue, Suite 328, Englewood, CO 80111. (303) 377-3226.

LB COUNCIL APPROVES CHAMP CAR PURCHASE OF LONG BEACH (JUNE 8, 2005)

"The Champ Car World Series could not be happier about today's positive vote from the Long Beach City Council, which clears the way for us to continue one of the finest motorsports events anywhere in the United States. We have never wavered in our commitment to the city of Long Beach and the Champ Car fans in Southern California and today's vote will help Champ Car usher in a new era in the history of the Grand Prix of Long Beach. We have all seen what having a world-class racing event of the caliber of the Grand Prix of Long Beach can mean for a city, and we will do everything possible to continue the pattern of growth that the race has brought to the people of Long Beach."

Medical update on Bruno Junqueira (MAY 30, 2005)

(Newman-Haas driver and Champcar series leader Bruno Junqueira was injured during the 89th Indy 500 on Sunday. He crashed heavily and suffered spinal injury)
Bruno Junqueira is in fair condition following successful surgery on his fractured T-12 and L-1 vertabras on Monday. Dr. Terry Trammell, who completed the four-hour surgery on Junqueira at approximately 11:30 a.m. CST today, said the 28-year-old Brazilian suffered no additional spinal injuries and will remain hospitalized until the end of the week. Junqueira was visited by many of his fellow drivers following the surgery. He is expected to sit up tonight and stand tomorrow. (N-H RACING)

Kenny Brack Replaces Injured Buddy Rice at Indy (MAY 18, 2005)

Buddy Rice, who recorded Honda's first Indianapolis 500 victory in 2004, will be unable to defend his title this year as the result of back injuries sustained in a practice session crash on May 11 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Substituting for Rice at Indianapolis will be Kenny Brack, as the 1999 "500" race winner returns to his former Rahal Letterman Racing team. Rice sustained a concussion and a severe back contusion when his car spun and crashed into the Turn Two wall on the second day of practice for the 89th Indianapolis 500. Rice sat out the remainder of practice and the first weekend of qualifying in the hope of returning to competition this week. But additional examinations by the Speedway medical staff on Monday revealed a partially torn spinal ligament, which will require approximately three weeks of additional rest and rehabilitation before Rice can return to competition.

"Needless to say, I am extremely disappointed that I won't be able to defend my Indy 500 championship," Rice said. "Physically, I feel fine, but I have to trust the Speedway and IRL medical team because they are looking out for my safety. I am optimistic that I will be cleared for Texas [Motor Speedway, June 11]. I think this team can win the Borg- Warner Trophy again, and I hope I can assist them in accomplishing that goal." As a result, the veteran Brack will return to the Rahal Letterman team for whom he drove in 2003, Honda's first year of IRL competition, until he was injured in a crash at the season-ending Texas Motor Speedway event. Brack was IndyCar Series champion in 1998 and "500" winner the following season, both while driving for A.J. Foyt. He has four career IndyCar victories.

"You couldn't have a Hollywood script like this one - to have Buddy replace me after I was injured, and now I replace him - is almost surreal," Brack said. "I'm very sorry for Buddy, and hope he gets well soon. But I'm grateful to Bobby [Rahal] and the team for the opportunity, and Honda, who has been very supportive of this decision. "Of course, we're tremendously disappointed that Buddy will be unable to defend his '500' crown," said Robert Clarke, president of Honda Performance Development. "His victory here last year was Honda's first Indy win and one of the highlights of our 2004 season. At the same time, it's great to welcome Kenny back to the Honda family. His skill and experience as a IndyCar driver are unmatched, and no one can argue that he is the best possible replacement driver to take over Buddy's car." (HONDA)

2004-2005 Champions Crowned at THQ World Supercross GP/THQ AMA Supercross Series Banquet (MAY 13, 2005)

Clear Channel Entertainment's Motor Sports division announced today the award winners from the 2004- 2005 THQ World Supercross GP/THQ AMA Supercross Series banquet held inside the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Sunday, May 8.

• THQ World Supercross GP Champion: Ricky Carmichael
• THQ AMA Supercross Series Champion: Ricky Carmichael
• 125cc Western Regional THQ AMA Supercross Series Champion: Ivan Tedesco
• 125cc Eastern Regional THQ AMA Supercross Series Champion: Grant Langston
• Dave Coombs Sr. 125cc East/West Shootout Champion: Davi Millsaps
• 100% Award: Heath Voss
• U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Pro Privateer Challenge and CE Altman Top Privateer: Tyler Evans
• Team of the Year: American Suzuki
• Mechanic of the Year: Mike Gosselaar
• Transport Driver of the Year: Brian Barnhart
• AMA Special Recognition: Steve Whitelock
• FIM Special Recognition: John Gallagher
• Walker Garrison Lifetime Achievement Award: Chuck Miller
• Road to Recovery Humanitarian of the Year: Steve Augustine
• Team Manager of the Year: Mitch Payton
• KTM Jr. Supercross Challenge Special Recognition: Selvaraj Narayana

KATHERINE LEGGE WINS TOYOTA ATLANTIC LONG BEACH GP (APR 11, 2005)

24 year old rookie Katherine Legge from England won the season opener at Long Beach. She thus became the first woman to win a major American open wheeler race. She drives the Polestar car for Kevin Kalkhoven's PKV Racing.

KALKHOVEN: "You (Katherine Legge) have done the best so far of all the PKV drivers"

LEGGE: "I arrived at Long Beach in the early hours of Wednesday morning, it is a fantastic venue and I was blown away by the scale of the event. The Champ Car events are definitely the place to be and I have a lot of respect for the organizers who are doing a great job of building a really strong and rapidly expanding series. Toyota Atlantic is the best platform to showcase your talents as a driver and then to move on up to the top rung of the ladder into Champ Car. I am so grateful to Kevin Kalkhoven and the PKV team for giving me this opportunity here in the USA.

My weekend started very well on Wednesday with myself and a two other drivers being taken to three schools in the area to visit the kids. It was an absolute pleasure and I thoroughly enjoyed meeting them all as we wanted to give something back to the community and to get more young people interested in motorsports. To see hundreds of kids with smiles on their faces was great. I was then whisked off to the media luncheon, which was fantastic. It then sunk in that I was actually there doing what I had dreamed of. Everybody was very nice and accommodating and I got to meet a lot of the world’s top drivers. On Thursday we did some more PR related interviews and photographs and then the big one…we got to walk the track! It was awesome; it’ just like on TV! The team and I made a lot of notes and I concentrated on taking it all in, preparing for Fridays practice session. We were given half an hour to learn the track and set the car up for qualifying 1, it all went relatively smoothly and later that day I achieved P3, having been stuck in a great deal of traffic. The speed differential between the fastest and slowest drivers was vast and it was a big learning curve trying to maximize the car whilst getting around the traffic.

Then came Saturday, as you get points for achieving pole I had just put on new tires and I was going for it. I was coming up to a slower car who thought he was doing me a favor by moving out of my way, but he actually ended up causing me to glance the wall and ultimately the end of my second qualifying. I watched my position drop as I lost my fastest lap for causing a red flag to stop the session. I ended up P7 and knew I had a lot of work to do on Sunday. The Polestar team had done a fantastic job since I started testing with them the previous week, I really couldn’t have asked for any more, they have accelerated my learning curve greatly. The whole team then stayed up until 4 am repairing my car to make it perfect for warm up on Sunday. I am extremely grateful to them and the result was due as much to their preparation skills as it was to my efforts on track. In warm up on Sunday we bedded in new brake discs and made sure the car was back to normal after the knock. It was all fine and we then put a strategy together for the race. It went like clockwork!

The rolling start went well and I moved up to 4th, it was a long race and I bided my time, a couple of full course yellow flags helped me to catch the leaders and pick them off. I was unfortunate to be involved in an incident with another car as I passed him. I suffered slight damage to my front left corner but not enough to make a significant difference. I then passed my teammate while we were amongst back markers. With two laps to go I passed the leader in turn 10, Rocky Moran Jr. was very unfortunate to break down, but it eased the pressure on me from behind. My team mate, Antoine Bessette, who had achieved pole in both qualifying sessions was right behind me, he drove a clean race and we finished the day with a 1 -2 for the Polestar team, a result they richly deserved.

I then got the opportunity to appreciate the crowd, which was enormous! I am very grateful to them for their support. The atmosphere at Long Beach was like nothing I had ever experienced before and one that I will always remember." (CHAMPCAR, POLESTAR)

JAGUAR PRODUCTION-BASED AJ-V8 ENGINE TO RACE FULL 2005 TRANS-AM SEASON (APR 8, 2005)

The 2005 Trans-Am season marks the increase of Jaguar power in the Trans-Am Road Racing Series, with production-based Jaguar AJ-V8 engine in Rocketsports Racing's R Performance XKR Trans-Am race cars. The thundering Jaguar AJ-V8 race engine, developed in conjunction with Michigan-based Rocketsports Racing, will power the Jaguar XKR of returning Trans-Am champion, Paul Gentilozzi, and rookie Trans-Am driver, Klaus Graf, throughout the 2005 season.

Jaguar announced its intention to develop a 4.5-liter version of its lightweight dual overhead-cam V8 road car engine at the 2003 season-opener in St.Petersburg, Fla. The engine successfully powered the No. 11 Jaguar R Performance XKR during the 2004 Trans-Am season, in which Jaguar took its fourth Trans-Am Manufacturers' Championship title. For 2005, the Jaguar AJ-V8 race engine will power the No. 7 car driven by Klaus Graf as well as the No. 3 car driven by Paul Gentilozzi. "Jaguar and Rocketsports were both extremely pleased with the performance of the production-based AJ-V8 engine and are expecting the 2005 season to prove equally successful," commented Tom Scarpello, Jaguar North America's vice president of Marketing. "The Rocketsports team, and all the Jaguar drivers did a fabulous job of bringing us the 2004 Manufacturers' title, and we expect to continue our success this year with two XKR race cars using Jaguar power." "The last time a Jaguar engine competed in the Trans-Am Series was back in 1981. The return of Jaguar power was long overdue and welcomed by the Series," added Rocketsports Racing team owner, Paul Gentilozzi. "Building on the success we experienced last year, we're looking forward to a great 2005 season."

Gentilozzi re-introduced Jaguar to Trans-Am competition during the 2000 season by selecting the aerodynamic XKR body as his car of choice. The following year he drove the Rocketsports Racing XKR to his third Trans-Am driver's title and delivered the coveted Manufacturers’ Championship to Jaguar. In early 2003, Gentilozzi approached Jaguar North America with a proposal to switch from Ford pushrod power to the Jaguar AJ-V8. He was given an enthusiastic reception – together with a new engine to begin work on.

"The Trans-Am Series is a perfect fit for Jaguar in the North American market," continued Scarpello. "It is the longest continuously-running North American road racing series – a series that continues to see a growing number of Jaguar XKR-bodied cars competing. The marque is once again delighted to be involved in road racing, where it has enjoyed great success in the past."

Engine work was carried out at Rocketsports’ race shop in Lansing, Michigan. The engine itself is based on the same all-aluminum 4.2-liter AJ-V8 that powers Jaguar's XK sports cars, the S-TYPE sedan and the aluminum XJ sedan line-up. Rocketsports’ engineers increased the V8’s capacity from 4.2 to 4.5 liters and more than doubled the horsepower from the standard 294bhp (SAE) to more than 650bhp. While the production AJ-V8’s alloy cylinder block and heads are retained, a new heavy-duty crankshaft is fitted along with lightweight racing pistons and connecting rods. Modifications also include custom-made headers and a race fuel-injection system. With its race-tuned AJ-V8 revving to 9000 rpm, the carbon fiber and Kevlar-bodied racing XKR is a very fast, beautiful car. The car will sprint from standstill to 60mph in a staggering 3.2 seconds, with quarter-mile acceleration in 10.8 seconds at 135mph, and a top speed of 180mph.

The Jaguar-powered XKR also sports Jaguar's stunning silver, green and red North American racing livery. The last Trans-Am Series involvement for Jaguar was with Bob Tullius’ legendary Group 44 team in 1981 with its V12-engined XJS racecars. Jaguar's previous high point within Trans-Am competition was when Tullius took the Manufacturers’ Championship in 1978. (JAGUAR/FORD)

WIRDHEIM & BREMER JOIN HVM RACING (APR 4, 2005)

Two scandinavian drivers will make their Champcar debut with HVM Racing team. 25 year old Bjorn Wirdheim from Sweden won the International F3000 championship in 2003. He has tested with several Champcar teams as well as Formula 1 Jaguar team. His team-mate will be 26 year old Ronnie Bremer from Denmark. He competed in Toyota Atlantic Championship in 2003.
WIRDHEIM: "I've been looking to Champ Car for a long time. This series has been at the top of my list and I look forward to the interesting races on the Champ Car calendar"
BREMER: "This is a dream come true for me. Champ Car has been a goal of mine since I started racing and I can't wait to get started in Long Beach. I had a very good test with HVM in Sebring and was impressed with their teamwork and communication. The engineering staff is top-notch; I knew this was the team I wanted to drive for."

AUSTRALIAN F3 RACE WINNER MARSHALL MOVES TO CHAMP CAR (MAR 26, 2005)

Adelaide based Australian Formula 3 operation, Team BRM has produced two championship winners and a whole heap of success for its drivers since it began competing in Australian Formula 3 in 1998 and now it has had a guiding hand in the career of Australia's latest successful international export: Marcus Marshall. Marshall who last weekend confirmed that he has signed to compete with successful Champ Car operation Walker Racing for the 2005 Bridgestone Presents the Champ Car World Series powered by Ford - competed with team BRM in two out of the eight rounds that made up the 2004 Australian Formula 3 championship finishing sixth on the seasons' points tally. It was his drive at the Lexmark Indy 300, though, that pushed him into the spotlight in front of the American teams, the 26-year-old Queenslander crushing a competitive field by taking pole and winning all three races in front of the watching Champ Car teams and management.

Team BRM owner, and chairman of Formula 3 Australia Bronte Rundle said that Marshall's leap to one of the world's premier open wheel series' was a great advertisement for Formula 3 Australia. "Australian Formula 3 and team BRM are delighted to have had a hand in developing Australia's latest International export," said Rundle. "Marcus is a true talent, and will go very well in the Champ Car World Series this season. "We had the pleasure of working with Marcus last year for two rounds, and to witness the change between the start of the season (In Adelaide) and when he came back to BRM at the Gold Coast was fantastic. He had really developed as a driver and really showed how good he could be in what was a very competitive field. "He ran with us at the Gold Coast with the sole intention of showing what he was capable of in front of the visiting American teams and there is no doubt he was able to achieve that. It's a credit to him that he has been able to follow it up and gain a seat in a very competitive top level championship series like Champ Car."

Rundle said that Marshall's graduation to the ranks of the Champ Car World Series was proof positive that Formula 3 in Australia remains the best place for young drivers to develop their talent before heading overseas. "People like Will Power, James Manderson and Karl Reindler and now Marcus have all used this category in Australia as a stepping stone to bigger and better things either here or in Europe and America," he said. "The drivers we have in this series this year will also be looking to do the same thing, because they know that if you are successful in Formula 3 racing there is a very high chance that you will be successful elsewhere." Marshall will make his Champ Car World Series debut at the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach in California on April 10th, whilst the next round of the 2005 Kumho Tyres Australian Formula 3 championship will be held at South Australia's Malalla Raceway a week after on April 16th and 17th. (BRM)

Andrew Ranger Makes The Leap To The Champ Car Series With The Mi- Jack Conquest Racing Team (MAR 21, 2005)

Quebec race-car driver Andrew Ranger, who just barely turned 18, will be making his debut alongside some of the best in the business in Long Beach next month after it was announced today he has signed with the Mi-Jack Conquest Racing team for the 2005 Champ Car season. Ranger was courted by a number of teams following his resounding success in the Atlantic series last year -- winning rookie-of-the-year honours on the strength of six podiums in 12 races -- and his performance in off-season testing. The Roxton Pond, Quebec native said he regards his new challenge with much enthusiasm and relishes the opportunity to compete against such driving stalwarts as Sebastien Bourdais, Paul Tracy and Cristiano da Matta. "I've worked hard to get where I am and I'm really pleased to see that my efforts and those of my sponsors that have supported me from the very beginning of my racing career have been rewarded," added Ranger, who will be teamed with French driver Nelson Philippe. "I'm extremely grateful to Mr. Bachelart for the confidence he has expressed in me and I intend to prove that he made the right choice in giving me a ride with Mi-Jack Conquest Racing."

Ranger will be getting to work immediately, as he is scheduled to take part in two days of testing on the road course at Sebring, Florida starting on Wednesday to fine-tune the set-ups on the Lola-Ford #27 car in preparation for the opening race of the season. Ranger's new boss, Belgian-born Bachelart, who won the Indy Lights championship in 1991 before founding his own racing team in 1997, said that he was extremely impressed by Ranger's poise and maturity during the testing sessions in Fontana, California, in early March. "I had heard a lot about Andrew and I had been watching him for some time, but I was really struck by his composure and dexterity in handling the car," stated Bachelart. "This is a very exciting time for MJCR. We have worked extremely hard during the off-season to improve the technical and engineering program, and we feel that we have two very capable drivers in Nelson and Andrew to take full advantage of our technical package. "

Ranger's climb up the motor-racing ladder has been extraordinary, not only because of his tender age but also because of his phenomenal progress in a short span. In 2001, he became the first Canadian driver to compete in the Paris-Bercy, a world-class karting competition. Two years later, he won the Fran-Am series -- the North American Formula Renault championship -- with five race wins in 13 events. "Having Andrew join the team is something we are very excited about," said team co-owner Mike Lanigan. "Eric has created a very good environment for both our drivers to do very well this season and be competitive on a regular basis, so we are really looking forward to going racing this season."

Procter & Gamble Canada, a partner in Ranger's career from day one, is proud to be able to maintain its association with the young driver and provide continued support in his quest to achieve new goals. Ranger is also supported in this respect by the Kodak company. "Our involvement with Andrew Ranger is based on our desire to help an immensely talented athlete attain his goals and dreams," declared Mark Pawliw, Senior Account Executive at Procter & Gamble Canada. "Andrew is an outstanding ambassador for motor-racing and has done some outstanding charity work for us. We have no doubt that he will be the new fan favourite in the Champ Car World Series." Procter & Gamble Canada will be deriving increased exposure, through its Tide brand, on Andrew Ranger's car at the Canadian events in the Champ Car series. These races are in Toronto (July 10), Edmonton (July 17) and Montreal (August 28). The first of the 14 races on the 2005 Champ Car schedule will be run on April 10 on the street course in Long Beach, California, a venue where Ranger finished second in an Atlantic series race last year. (MI JACK RACING)

AMA PRESENTS 'DUD PERKINS AWARD' TO DAVE DESPAIN (MAR 16, 2005)

PICKERINGTON, OHIO - The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has announced that Dave Despain, well-known motorsports television personality and member of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame, is the latest recipient of the AMA Dud Perkins Award for Outstanding Contribution to Motorcycling. The formal presentation took place at Daytona Bike Week 2005, and Despain publicly accepted the award on Sunday, March 13, during his popular "Wind Tunnel" program on Speed Channel.

The AMA Dud Perkins Award for Outstanding Contribution to Motorcycling, established in 1971, was first presented to its namesake. Dud Perkins was a San Francisco motorcycle dealer who embodied tireless and generous dedication to every aspect of motorcycling, serving on many AMA committees and advancing the careers of many noteworthy professional motorcycle racers. The award is the Association's highest honor for outstanding contributions to motorcycling.

Dave Despain is arguably the best-known television personality in the history of motorcycling. He started calling local races in and around his home state of Iowa and progressed through the ranks as race announcer, radio disc jockey, television color commentator and, ultimately, host of a nationally broadcast weekly motorcycling program. Besides being the voice of motorcycle racing, Despain also has done just about everything else in motorcycling, from being AMA Public Relations Director, racer, motorcycle shop worker, journalist, promoter, AMA Pro Racing board member and founder of the Dirt Track Hall of Fame. From the
mid-1970s through the 2000s, there's been no more recognized face and voice in the sport of motorcycling.

"There's perhaps no more deserving recipient of the Dud Perkins Award than Dave Despain," said Robert Rasor, President of the AMA. "His immeasurable contributions to motorcycling, both behind the microphone and beyond, showcase the very best of our sport, and we're delighted to take this opportunity to honor him." The AMA Dud Perkins Award for Outstanding Contribution to Motorcycling is bestowed from time to time at the pleasure of the AMA Board of Directors. A complete list of the award's past recipients can be found at http://www.ama-cycle.org/whatis/dudperkins.asp. (AMA)

ACEMCO Motorsports Ready to Race at Sebring (MAR 11, 2005)

Spring Lake, Michigan -- ACEMCO Motorsports has completed a thorough testing schedule in preparation for the American Le Mans Series season opener at the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring to be run March 19th. Driver's Terry Borcheller, Johnny Mowlem and Ralf Kelleners are anxious to go head to head with the record 10 competitors that will compete in the GT1 class at historic Sebring.

"We have completed a good schedule of testing during the winter," said Jeff Giangrande, ACEMCO Motorsports team owner. "We will see the largest entry of GT1 cars the series has ever seen at Sebring. This will be a good view of what we will see come June at Le Mans. The crew has rebuilt both of our S7-Rs, one for the ALMS schedule and the other for Le Mans. The drivers have been running test miles, so the whole team is ready to see what we have against the rest of the GT1 competition at speed at Sebring next week."

After finishing third at Sebring in 2004, driver Johnny Mowlem is ready for the 12-Hour challenge next week. "I know that the Sebring 12-hours is going to be a very tough battle. Our GT1 class includes the factory Corvettes and Aston Martins; you can't discount the privateer Corvette and the Ferrari teams. Add to that mix the factory Maserati and you have arguably the most competitive GT1 field anywhere ever, including this year's Le Mans 24. The support from Michelin and all the hard work that the ACEMCO team has put in over the last few months will keep us in the hunt for a podium finish. Obviously after all that effort, we're going to be aiming for the top step of that podium!"

"The test at Sebring went really well, the tires, reliability and getting to know some of the new faces on the team," said Borcheller. "We came away from the test with a list of issues and Jeff is addressing those. The setup of the car has changed substantially with the new Michelin tires. The car is much better than this time last year in the key areas of speed, handling and reliability. This is the most anticipated field in this class in years. I am totally optimistic about our chances of doing really well. I am completely jazzed for the race in eight days."

"The testing we were able to do last month really helped me get acclimated to the car and team," said Ralf Kelleners. "The car improved with nearly every adjustment that we made during the test. The Michelins proved to be very consistent and durable. The adjustments to the car to maximize the tires was our primary focus, I am confident we have a good baseline set-up going into the 12-hour."

ACEMCO Automotive is based in Spring Lake, Michigan and is an industry leader in the engineering, manufacture and assembly of metal stampings for light trucks, SUVs and passenger cars. (ACEMCO)

Alex Job Racing Going for Fifth Consecutive Sebring Victory (MAR 11, 2005)

Tavares, Florida - Alex Job Racing is preparing to make a record setting run at their fifth Mobil 1 Sebring Twelve Hour GT2 class victory in a row. With six wins at this historic event, the Florida based team is ready to set a new mark at their home track.

The team will return with their new look number 23/mail2web.com/Hyatt/Alex Job Racing/Porsche 911 GT3 RSR and number 24/Bell Microproducts/ProVest/Alex Job Racing/Porsche 911 GT3 RSR. The new look will be debuted at Sebring with reigning 2004 American Le Mans Series GT driver's champion Timo Bernhard and new for '05 teammate Romain Dumas. Joining Bernhard and Dumas in the 23 car will be the driver holding the current record for wins in the ALMS Sascha Maassen.

Maassen is also going for his fifth consecutive Sebring victory. "It is easy for a driver to say to get the fifth win we just have to finish first. The team has been preparing all winter for this race and Alex and the guys are always on top of every detail for Sebring. With Timo, Romain and myself we have a lot of long distance driving experience. We will need to take care in traffic and be very mindful of the lead car not to go down a lap."

Defending ALMS GT driver's champion Timo Bernhard realizes the challenges of Sebring. "Sebring is always the race with the largest entry. That means more LMP cars that are fast and can really mess up the running order once a yellow comes out. You have to run your own race against the GT2 competitors, but you have to always have an eye on the overall leader not to go down a lap. Of course the car has to be reliable and the drivers have to stay away from contact on the track."

"It has been a long winter," said Romain Dumas. "I had the opportunity to test the car last month and we were really fast. I am not sure if it was the perfect weather, but I am hopeful that the speed will carry over to the race weekend. The team is always well prepared for Sebring and they really know the strategy for the race. I am looking to log my first Sebring 12-hour victory next weekend."

In the 24 car road racing veteran Randy Pobst returns to AJR and is teamed with rookie Ian Baas (pronounced Boss). Joining the duo for Sebring and Petit Le Mans will be Brian Cunningham. "Sebring is one of my favorite tracks, I used to live real close in Melbourne and have a lot of track time there," said Pobst. "I am looking forward to driving the RSR; I have a lot of miles in the 911, but have yet to turn laps in the new model. We have our own melting pot of drivers in the 24 car with Ian, Brian and I, but I am confident we can run at the front. It will be good to renew my relationship with Alex and work with Kerry Foote again."

"I am eager to get back behind the wheel and work with the team," said Ian Baas. "This will be my second race at Sebring; I did a double race weekend in Formula Ford last year. This will also be my first endurance event and I am anxious to learn the pit stop etiquette, driver changes and all that goes with a long race. Driving in the dark is going to be great! The Porsche will be a different driving experience through the fast turns like one and 17."

"I have run the 12-hour five times before, my best finish was in 1996 with Oldsmobile when we were second in class," said Brian Cunningham. "I am cautiously optimistic. It is easy to go in thinking you have the best car, best team and great drivers only to be let down by a ten-cent part. Twelve hours is a long time and so much can happen. It is hard not to be excited when you are driving a proven car and the confidence I have in Alex Job Racing to prepare the best possible entry. Our biggest competition will be our other team car and the rest of the Sebring variables."

"We are looking forward to running at Sebring and getting back to victory lane," said Alex Job, owner Alex Job Racing. "It has been a long winter of preparation and everyone is anxious to get back to the track and race. We showed some good speed in practice here in February and look to build on that for the race weekend. We have always run well Sebring and we are hoping to make it five consecutive victories at Sebring."

#23 Alex Job Racing/ mail2web.com/Hyatt/Porsche 911 GT3 RSR:
Timo Bernhard, Romain Dumas, Sascha Maassen - Sebring and Petit

#24 Alex Job Racing/Bell Microproducts/ProVest/Porsche 911 GT3 RSR:
Randy Pobst, Ian Baas, Brian Cunningham - Sebring and Petit

Alex Job Racing will take to the 3.7-mile 17-turn Sebring International Raceway for the 12-hour event starting at 10:45 a.m. EST on Saturday, March 19th. The race will be broadcast on Speed Channel.

AJR thanks team sponsors mail2web.com, Hyatt, Bell Microproducts, ProVest and partners Mobil 1, Michelin, Puma and ZF Sachs. (Alex Job)

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