AUTO  & AUTO RACING NEWS

                                                                                                                                                   William Oldecam Hoehne      Joyce Notaspringchick Chow                               

                                                                          

 

 

Racing goes green part 4 with oldecam and Notaspringchick   Racing goes green Oldecam and Notaspringchick part 3  Racing goes green part 2 with Oldecam Notaspringchick Racing Green part 1 with Oldecam and Notaspringchick 

 Green Pioneer Kris Moller on Driving Green with Joyce Chow on Conserv Fuel   The Connection- Green Racing and The Influence on Mainstream Auto Cap and Trade, Motorsports at the Race Goes Green Q & A

Ed Begley Jr and Larry Hagman and the Solar XOF1 Car  Solar XOF1 Car and Notaspringchick    Race Ramps, The Car Ramp You Dream Of  Racing goes green part 5 with Oldecam Notaspringchick

Scott Sharp Patron Highcroft Racing with Joyce Chow   Pierre Kaffer Ferrari risi Competizione with Joyce Chow  Solar XOF1 Car and Notaspringchick  Ed Begley Jr and Peter Fonda in Solar XOF1 Car

Big 3 UAW workers give us a video response  Its politically correct to own a hybrid  Car maintenance part 1 Maintaining your car part 2  Jeep Compass review with Oldecam and Notaspringchick

Saturn Vue  2009 Chevy Aveo  Smart Cars Coming to America! Smart Car part 2  The Chevy Cobalt  Can America's Big Three Automakers Survive  Its politically correct to own a hybrid

Notaspringchick with news from Goodwood festival of speed   Ford Flex   Green cars from the big 4 auto makers   Smart Car with Notaspringchick  2009 Chevy Aveo   Future in Motorsports with Toyota Racing Development

Ford Flex at West Coast Customs - 1  Ford Flex at West Coast Customs -2   Ceo Brian of West Coast Customs Ford Flex preview  Courtney Hansen, Cars and the Women in Racing

Cirbin 3 Wheel Roadster    Alternative Fuel Cell Vehicles and Q&A  Notaspringchick 5-15 stretching your dollar   Scott Pruett in the Lexus IS F Test Drive at SEMA

Jamie Little and Mike Skinner in the Winners Circle  Danica Patrick at the Toyota Grand Prix Long Beach - Part 2   Danica Patrick at the Toyota Grand Prix Long Beach - Part 1

Oldecam And Notaspringchick at the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach  Oldecam And Notaspringchick at the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach 

 The Future of Auto Racing and ALMS at Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach   Smart Car Test Drive   NASCAR Racer Erin Crocker at Chasing Baja Premiere    Mini Cooper Clubman Debut

BMW1 Series Debut   Cadillac Provoq World Premiere at CES 2008   John Schneider's General Lee   GM's Update on Chevy Volt Concept Car

CES 2008 - GM's Wagoner on Technologies   2009 Ford Flex2 by Funkmaster Flex Unveiled at SEMA and the Expedition Funkmaster Flex   Chip Foose 2009 Ford Flex Unveiled at SEMA

Women Trade in Your Motorcycles    Ford's CEO Mulally on UAW Agreement   Ford Motor Company's CEO at the LA Auto Show    2009 Corolla and Matrix Unveiled at SEMA

  Yada Yada Yada at SEMA   Mercedes Benz E320 Bluetec Runway Debut at MB Fashion Week  DUB Show Alpine's IMPRINT Car   Orange County Choppers Peavey Guitar Unveiling

Orange County Choppers Peavey Bike Unveiling   Toyota Celebrity-Pro Practice- Canon Pit Suite View   Smart Cars Coming to America!

 Nick Hogan and Dan Pina Drifting   Nopi Drift Drivers Meeting with Dan Pina  Drifting - What It's Like From the Inside   1925 Rolls Royce Phantom at the LA Concours d'Elegance 

 

Formula DRIFT Announces Schedule Change for the Pro Am National Championship;
Event will now be held on November 21 at the Toyota Speedway at Irwindale



Long Beach, Calif. – October 1, 2009 – Formula DRIFT has announced a schedule and venue change for the 2009 Pro Am National Championship. The event will now take place on November 21 at the Toyota Speedway at Irwindale.

The top amateur drivers from the United States and Canada will meet at the infamous “House of Drift,” at the Toyota Speedway at Irwindale. This will be the first time that a Pro Am competition of this level will take place at this location. The rising stars of drifting will be discovered and compete for their chance to earn a Formula DRIFT Pro Championship license. Current professional drivers that made their way up through the Pro Am circuit include Justin Pawlak, Ryan Tuerck, Joon Maeng, and Matt Powers.

“Bringing the FD Pro Am National Championship to Irwindale is not only very cool, but very symbolic as well,” said Jim Liaw, president and co-founder of Formula DRIFT. “Never has a Pro Am competition of this magnitude and importance been held at Irwindale before. And to top it off Irwindale is the birthplace of American professional drifting, back in 2003 when Ryan and I brought D1 outside of Japan for the first time.”

Tickets for the Pro Am National Championship will go on sale on October 17, the same day as Round 7: Judgment Day the final event of the 6th season of the Formula DRIFT Pro Championship. Online tickets can be purchased on the Formula DRIFT website. For more information, visit: www.formuladrift.com.

 

Formula DRIFT Pro AM National Championship Invited Drivers List
Driver Name / Series Qualified From
 
Brian Peter Formula DRIFT Atlanta  
Dan Willie Formula DRIFT Atlanta  
Jason Jiovani Formula DRIFT Atlanta  
Tom Barnhart Formula DRIFT Atlanta  
Forrest Wang Formula DRIFT Las Vegas  
Johnny Kanavas Formula DRIFT Las Vegas  
Roland Gallagher Formula DRIFT Las Vegas  
Andrew Coomes Formula DRIFT Las Vegas  
Cyrus Martinez Formula DRIFT Seattle  
Victor Moore Formula DRIFT Seattle  
Ian Fournier Formula DRIFT Seattle  
Trent Stromkins Formula DRIFT Seattle  
Kohei Nakamura DMCC West  
Chris Scremin DMCC West  
Robert Parsons DMCC West  
David Briggs DMCC East  
Ryan Lanteigne DMCC East  
Claude Poirier DMCC East  
Russell Walker HIN Texas  
Ameen Rizvi HIN Texas  
Gary James HIN Florida  
Charlie Thompson HIN Florida  
Derek King HIN Chicago  
Mike Pollard HIN Chicago  
John Johnson HIN Chicago  

 
Note: In addition to the listed drivers, all current Formula DRIFT Pro License holders that do not meet the minimum points for automatic renewal will be invited to this competition. Alternates and additional drivers will be added to the list pending the results of upcoming Pro Am events.

 

 

 

Veteran Crew Chief Paul Smith will tune Bob Gilbertson at Carolina Nationals
 
CHARLOTTE, N.C. --  Bob Gilbertson has picked Paul Smith as the crew chief of his Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters nitro Funny Car for his return to NHRA competition at the up-coming Carolinas Nationals Sept. 17-20 at zMAX Dragway @ Concord.
 
Smith has been involved in nitro drag racing for over 40 years and is regarded as one of the most savvy crew chiefs on the tour and he's known for being able to get his drivers into the show on many occasions when the larger funded teams struggled and didn't qualify.
 
Smith has tuned many drivers to NHRA national event wins including Jeff Arend, Chuck Etchells and even Bob Gilbertson to his only NHRA victory at Houston in 2000.  Smith also drove quite a few nitro Funny Cars early in his career and although he never won an NHRA national Event as a driver he was runner-up  three times.
 
Gilbertson, who hasn't been behind the wheel since last years Carolinas Nationals, is pumped up about getting back on track and re-uniting with his former crew chief.
 
"Hopefully we can re-create the magic that we had in Houston in 2000," Gilbertson said.  "I've known Paul for many years and he's really like a member of our family and he's the best choice to get this team qualified and hopefully go some rounds on Sunday and become a spoiler in the points race."
 
"I'm very happy that Bob called me," Smith added.  "I've known Bob for a long time and he's a real racer at heart.  He's a really good driver, he's won races in the past, he knows what it takes to win and I hope that I can help him and his team achieve their goal of doing well at his home-town race in Charlotte."

 

 

 

First-Ever SEMA Show ‘N Shine 2nd Annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races


Date:
Saturday, August 1, 2009
9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Location:
Pasadena Convention Center
300 E. Green Street
Pasadena, CA  91101

Show ‘N Shine:
* Indoor car show featuring hundreds of customized cars, including several celebrity-owned vehicles
* Legendary designer Chip Foose as grand marshal, bringing with him several of his personal vehicles
* 20 super cars from Giovanna Wheels
* Awards, raffles, drawings, music

Pinewood Drag Races:
* Derby-style race with hundreds of handmade pinewood cars, including many made by kids from the charities that money will be donated to
* Six-lane aluminum track complete with laser timers and laptop reading
* Trophy presentation for winning vehicles 

Other Activities:
* Exhibitors with products for sale
* Celebrity-signed pinewood cars for sale; includes autographs from popular NASCAR, NHRA and Indy Car drivers, as well as other celebrities

Ticket information: 
* Free for 12 years and under; $5 for all others
* Tickets available at the door
* Proceeds benefit children’s charities

About the Charities:
* Childhelp is an organization that aids victims of child abuse. Childhelp originally began receiving support from wheel manufacturers in 1994 and now garners significant contributions from a wide range of industry businesses under the auspices of Friends of Childhelp.

* Victory Junction Gang Camp was founded in 2004 by Kyle and Pattie Petty in honor of their son Adam and has received support from the Light-Truck Accessory Alliance and others in the industry. The organization uses camping experiences in its racing-themed facilities to enrich the lives of children who suffer from chronic medical conditions or illnesses.

About SEMA:
* SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association, is a trade association representing the automotive specialty-equipment industry. The industry includes manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and other companies involved with enhancing the styling and functionality of cars, trucks and SUVs. The association represents 7,094 member companies, most of who are small to midsize business, with an owner entering the industry as an enthusiast whose passion led to a career. SEMA membership complements their existing staff by providing free education, training, research, legislative advocacy, international outreach, as well as group discounts on insurance, shipping and more.

 

 

 

 

June 25, 2009

Formula DRIFT Announces Schedule Change for 2009 Season;
Round 6: Locked and Loaded to be Added to the Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma on August 21-22, 2009



Long Beach, Calif. – June 25, 2009 – Formula DRIFT has announced a schedule change for the 2009 season. Round 6: Locked and Loaded at Infineon Raceway will be re-scheduled from September 12 to August 21-22. Formula DRIFT has been added to the Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma race weekend.

“Formula DRIFT continues to bring drifting to the big leagues with the addition of our event to the Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma,” said Jim Liaw, president and co-founder of Formula DRIFT. “Motorsports fans will be able to experience the 110+ mph average speeds of open wheel racing and all the sideways action of Formula DRIFT in one weekend.”

Formula DRIFT drivers will be amongst the biggest stars in IndyCar racing, including Helio Castroneves, Danica Patrick, Dario Franchitti, Marco Andretti, Graham Rahal, and more. Fans will be treated to both drifting and IndyCar Series racing during the Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma weekend. Tickets may be purchased on the Formula DRIFT website, 2-day Friday/Saturday pass will run $35. Special ticket discounts will be available through various Formula DRIFT media and promotional partners.

The Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma will be held on the weekend of Aug. 21-22 at Infineon Raceway. The Formula DRIFT Pro Championship Round 6: Locked and Loaded is scheduled for August 21 and 22. The change in the schedule will open up a longer break heading into the Finals in Irwindale on October 16-17 leaving time for teams to prepare and for Formula DRIFT to organize promotional activities leading into the Finals.

The remaining 2009 Formula DRIFT Pro Championship Schedule (as of June 25, 2009)

Round 4: All In – Las Vegas Motor Speedway – July 10-11
Round 5: Breaking Point – Evergreen Speedway – August 7-8
Round 6: Locked and Loaded – Infineon Raceway – August 21-22
Round 7: Judgment Day – Toyota Speedway at Irwindale – October 16-17

 

 

 

May 11, 2009

Formula DRIFT Round 2: Proving Ground Results;
Chris Forsberg Takes the Victory and the Lead in the Tires.com Triple Crown



Long Beach, Calif. – May 11, 2009 – Formula DRIFT Round 2: Proving Ground at Road Atlanta had Chris Forsberg in the NOS Energy Drink / Maxxis Nissan 350Z claiming the victory. The win moves him into 2nd place overall in the Formula DRIFT Championship point standings and gives him the lead in the chase for the Tires.com Triple Crown bonus.

Road Atlanta, home of the inaugural Formula DRIFT event back in 2004, hosted the 2-day event weekend that was highlighted with the Formula DRIFT Pro-Am competition in association with US Drift and Round 2 of the Professional Championship series. Attendance numbers were the highest of all time for the venue and despite the chance of rain, fans from all across the South East gathered for the drifting filled weekend.

“The fans that come to Road Atlanta are some of the most dedicated and enthusiastic that we have,” said Ryan Sage, vice president of marketing and co-founder of Formula DRIFT. “The energy of this crowd could be felt and added an additional element of excitement to the event. For the last 6 years we have seen this event grow more and more and we look forward to next season.”

For the second time in his career, Chris Forsberg and the NOS Energy Drink / Maxxis Nissan 350Z took the victory at Road Atlanta. Forsberg was consistent throughout the event and fought his way through very tough competition on his way to both the event victory the point lead for the Tires.com Triple Crown bonus. Darren McNamara piloting the Falken / Sears Auto Center Saturn Sky was a close runner-up and gave a very exciting show with his aggressive and skilled driving. In third place, Ryan Tuerck in the Gardella Racing / Mobil 1 Pontiac Solstice added to his Formula DRIFT championship point lead and secured his second consecutive podium finish.

“Road Atlanta has always been an awesome track and the team has had great finishes in the past,” said Chris Forsberg, winner of Round 2: Proving Ground and Tires.com Triple Crown points leader. “I really want to thank NOS Energy Drink and Maxxis tires for continuing their support into 2009, and helping us get back to the top of the podium!”

Formula DRIFT makes a return to Wall Speedway on June 5-6 in Wall, NJ for Round 3: The Gauntlet. Tickets are on-sale now.


 
Formula DRIFT Professional Championship 2009 Point Standings
 
1. Tuerck, Ryan Gardella Racing / Mobil 1Pontiac Solstice 182 Points
2. Forsberg, Chris NOS Energy Drink / Maxxis Nissan 350Z 164 Points
3. McNamara, Darren Falken / Sears Auto Center Saturn Sky 155 Points
4. Hubinette, Samuel NuFormz / Mopar Dodge Viper 148 Points
5. Foust, Tanner Rockstar / Scion Racing Scion TC 146 Points
6. Nishida, Robbie Hankook Tires / Dynamic Autosports Nissan 350Z 135 Points
7. Pawlak, Justin Mazda USA / Cooper 121 Points
8. Gittin, Vaughn Falken Tire Ford Racing Mustang GT 119 Points
9. Maeng, Joon Maxxis / LS Auto Nissan S13.5 118.50 Points
10. Brakohiapa, Tony Cooper Tire Ford Mustang 116.25 Points
11. Aono, Taka Technosquare Toyota AE86 Corolla 113.25 Points
12. Verdier, Stephan Cooper Tire / Crawford Performance Subaru STI 113 Points
13. MCQuarrie, Tyler Falken Nissan 350Z 110.50 Points
14. Millen, Rhys Red Bull / RMR / Toyo Hyundai Genesis Coupe 106.50 Points
15. Yoshihara, Daijiro Falken / Discount Tire Lexus IS350 105 Points
16. Petty, Ross Garage Boso / Falken Nissan S15 103.50 Points

 
Round 2: Proving Ground Event Results
1. Forsberg, Chris NOS Energy Drink / Maxxis Nissan 350Z  
2. McNamara, Darren Falken / Sears Auto Center Saturn Sky  
3. Tuerck, Ryan Gardella Racing / Mobil 1 Pontiac Solstice

 
Tires.com Triple Crown Point Standings after 1 of 3 events
1. Forsberg, Chris NOS Energy Drink / Maxxis Nissan 350Z 102 Points
2. McNamara, Darren Falken / Sears Auto Center Saturn Sky 94 Points
3. Tuerck, Ryan Gardella Racing / Mobil 1 Pontiac Solstice 80 Points


Full official standings available on: www.formuladrift.com

 

 

"MINDS IN THE WATER" MAKES NETWORK PREMIER ON FUEL TV APRIL 26, 2009 AT 9:30 ET/PT

 
The Saltwater Collective and FUEL TV Present Documentary Benefiting Dolphins, Whales and the World’s Oceans 

 

** MAKE SURE TO CHECK YOUR LOCAL LISTING**


 

On April 26, FUEL TV will feature the U.S. network premiere of Minds In The Water. Two years in the making, Minds In The Water is the story of one surfer's international journey to help protect dolphins, whales and their ocean environment. Shot on location in Australia, the Galapagos, Chile and Japan, the film captures a key moment in one person’s life when apathy is no longer an option. 

Pro surfer Dave Rastovich went from observer to activist when he embarked on a personal mission to help stop the worldwide commercial slaughter of dolphins and whales. While unsure at first, Rasta quickly found his activist sea legs and helped build a core team of filmmakers, journalists, musicians, eco-pirates, celebrity surfers and even a professional mermaid to help spread the message. All this has been documented in the film, Minds In The Water. 

“This whole journey started as no more than a conversation between two friends a few years ago,” says Rastovich. “Since then, it has evolved into an international movement with thousands of followers who are actively making a difference.” 

FUEL TV has partnered with The Saltwater Collective to produce a focused half-hour version of the documentary to screen directly to its TV audience. It’s another example of a commitment to “conscious content” that FUEL TV views as import programming to present to its market. 

“Minds In The Water is an amazing story about how a group of people can get behind a cause that they’re passionate about.” Says Shon Tomlin, FUEL TV’s VP of Programming and Development. “Dave Rastovich and Justin Krumb do an excellent job of telling an engaging story that connects the dots between passionate surfers and the mammals they share the ocean with. We’re honored to be a part of such a great project.” 

The Minds In The Water documentary will benefit Surfers For Cetaceans <www.s4cglobal.org>, a public charity dedicated to raising awareness of the threatened species and state of the world’s oceans, through art, music and highly visible media events. 

About Minds In The Water

 
Minds in the Water and the MITW Visual Petition are teamed in a global awareness campaign dedicated to the conservation of marine mammals and the world’s oceans.  It’s through insightful multimedia content such as cinematic and pictorial elements from which the voices of ocean minded people everywhere are heard.  For more information on the visual petition and the Minds in the Water campaign, please visit:  <http://www.mindsinthewater.com>.

 
About 540 Productions

 
540 Productions is your conduit to lifestyle markets. A marketing consultancy that fuses action sports, entertainment, and youth culture via unique concepts, promotions, and events offering an array of marketing services including public relations, creative services, affinity marketing, event marketing, mobile marketing, licensing and trend research. Based in Carlsbad, CA, 540 partners with brands, as well as agencies, to create, develop, and execute turnkey marketing efforts that increase brand loyalty, create visibility, and reinforce image: <http://www.fiveforty.com>.

 

 

 

April 14, 2009

Formula DRIFT Round 1: Streets of Long Beach Results;
Tuerck Takes the Season Opening Victory



Long Beach, Calif. – April 14, 2009 – Formula DRIFT Round 1: Streets of Long Beach kicks off their 6th championship season to a sell-out crowd. Ryan Tuerck and the Gardella Racing / Mobil 1 Pontiac Solstice took home the victory and leads the 2009 Professional Championship Point Standings.

The Long Beach Grand Prix Street Course hosted the season opening event to a standing room only crowd. The infamous track is the only course that is held on actual city streets making it one of the more unique drifting courses in the world. The 2009 season included the addition of the veteran driver, Tony Angelo, as a new judge to the series. It also marked the first 2-day event structure of the season and the change of competition formats. This season will be the first time a 32 car head-to-head format will be utilized in the Pro Championship series creating more head-to-head competition rounds and more action for the fans.

“I think this weekend in Long Beach proved that regardless of the current economic state Formula DRIFT is something that is truly embraced by fans and it showed with a huge attendance on Friday and standing room only on Saturday,” said Ryan Sage, vice president of marketing and co-founder of Formula DRIFT. “Without the support of the fans, teams, and sponsors Formula DRIFT would not have been able to pull off this amazing event and I personally cannot wait to get on a plane to Atlanta and get back to where Formula DRIFT held its first event.”

The event showcased some of the most exciting drifting to date and the introduction of the Top 32 competition format brought a new element to the event and more action. The season opening event unveiled a few highly anticipated vehicles including Rhys Millen and the Red Bull / RMR Hyundai Genesis Coupe, Vaughn Gittin Jr. and the 2010 Falken Tire Ford Mustang GT, and returning champion Tanner Foust in the Rockstar Scion Racing tC, who finished in third place after a very intense and close battle with Robbie Nishida in the Hankook Tire / Dynamic Autosport Nissan 350Z in the consolation round. The finals pitted 2-time Formula DRIFT champion, Samuel Hubinette in the NuFormz Racing / Mopar Dodge Viper against Ryan Tuerck and the Gardella Racing / Mobil 1 Pontiac Solstice. Tuerck edged out Hubinette with very consistent driving throughout the event taking the first victory of the season.

“It's an amazing feeling starting the season off on top,” stated Ryan Tuerck, Round 1: Streets of Long Beach winner and driver of the Gardella Racing / Mobil 1 Pontiac Solstice. “This isn't a one man show and I wouldn't have been able to do it without the support of the Gardella Racing / Mobil 1 Pontiac Solstice team. It's very satisfying to stand at the top of such a talented field of competitors.”

The 2009 Formula DRIFT season continues on May 8-9 in Braselton, GA at Road Atlanta for Round 2: Proving Ground. Tickets are on-sale now.


 
Formula DRIFT Professional Championship 2009 Point Standings
 
1. Tuerck, Ryan Gardella Racing / Mobil 1 102 Points
2. Hubinete, Samuel NuFormz Racing / Mopar Dodge Viper 90 Points
3. Foust, Tanner Rockstar / Scion Racing tC 84 Points
4. Nishida, Robbie Hankook Tires / Dynamic Autosports Nissan 350Z 72 Points
5. Aono, Taka Technosquare Toyota AE86 Corolla 65 Points
6. Brakohiapa, Tony Cooper Tire Ford Mustang 62 Points
6. Forsberg, Chris NOS Energy Drink / Maxxis Tire Nissan 350Z 62 Points
6. Gittin, Vaughn Falken Tire Ford Racing Mustang GT 62 Points
6. Verdier, Stephan Cooper Tire / Crawford Performance Subaru STI 62 Points
10. McNamara, Darren Falken Tire / Sears Saturn Sky 61 Points
11. Pawlak, Justin Mazda USA / Cooper 58 Points
12. Grunewald, Conrad Tanaka Racing Chevy Corvette 57 Points
13. Ly, Quoc Driftspeed Nissan S14 56 Points
14. Ueo, Katsuhiro Driftspeed Nissan S15 55 Points
15. Jeff Jones Comp. Turbo / K&N Filters Nissan S13 54.50 Points
16. Kondo, Yasu KAAZ USA Toyota AE86 Corolla 54.25 Points
     
Formula DRIFT Round 1: Streets of Long Beach Event Results
1. Tuerck, Ryan Gardella Racing / Mobil 1 102 Points
2. Hubinete, Samuel NuFormz Racing / Mopar Dodge Viper 90 Points
3. Foust, Tanner Rockstar / Scion Racing tC 84 Points


Full official standings available on: www.formuladrift.com

 

 

Race Central TV to Air on All-New Global Network - MavTV

Starting Saturday April 11th in "Prime Time"

 

(DENVER, April 10, 2009) - Race Central TV, the premier home for all forms of Motorsports in North America, is proud to announce a partnership with MavTV for the 2009 season and will launch its new programming for 2009 on Saturday, April 11, at 7:30 p.m., EDT, before moving to its regular slot Fridays from 8:00 - 9:00 p.m., EDT. 

 

MavTV is an exciting and cutting-edge, 24-hour HD television network targeting men. MavTV will not only expand Race Central TV's reach in the United States, but will also distribute the show globally to Europe, South & Central America, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Bermuda, and parts of Asia.  The partnership brings many assets to the show such as IPTV and mobile downloads to its many fans. 

 

"This relationship validates the booming growth of Race Central over the past five years as a destination for motorsports fans around the world to enjoy not only NHRA, NASCAR, Open-Wheel, Sports Car, Rally, and the Aussie V-8 Supercars, but extreme and cutting-edge motorsports, along with all forms of motorsport whether it be at the track, on the water, in the air, or anywhere else top-flight motorsports take place" says Kurt Hansen, COO of Motorsports Media Inc.

 

"The partnership with MavTV is a fantastic opportunity to extend the Race Central brand and reach a large, untapped, affluent audience for our sponsors.  The show will air in HD around the world and is a perfect fit for the type of high-impact and exciting content we offer our viewers.  Our sponsors could not be happier with the increased exposure they gain and the value a partnership offers new sponsors moving forward is second-to-none," said Rich Branch, Executive Vice President of Race Central.  "The inclusion of Race Central in the MavTV motorsports block of programming is a testament to the growth and awareness of Race Central TV as one of the most popular television destinations for unique and diverse motorsports content for fans across the country and now the world.  I cannot think of a better distribution partner than MavTV for our show at this time in our history, I'm very excited to be partnered with such a forward thinking and fast growing network as MavTV."

About Race Central

Race Central TV, Race Central Radio and Race Central Webcasts are the productions of Motorsports Media Group, Inc.  Founded by former driver and current motorsports insider Kurt Hansen, Race Central brings the greatest names in motorsports to race fans throughout America and the world via multiple platforms: TV, radio and webcasts.  Race Central TV reaches tens of millions of American homes, and enables its many sponsors and partners to reach their target audiences with marketing horsepower.  Race Central is presented weekly by STP Concrete, Colorado National Speedway, Daveco Liquors, Bear Frame and Axle, Miller Motorsports Park, racecopromotions, Akamai Systems Consulting, Motor Sports Country Club-Ring of The Rockies, Lemay-Americas Car Museum, Little Fish PR, Bimmerhaus and Stuggart MBZ.  Race Central Radio can be heard every Friday from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. MST on Colorado's Sporting News Radio affiliate, Mile High Sport Radio AM 1510, part of the Altitude Sports Radio Network and can be heard around the world via the World Wide Web by going to www.racecentralmedia.com and clicking the "listen live" link. For more information visit www.racecentralmedia.com. All Race Central TV Broadcasts can be seen at www.racecentral.tv, our streaming television site. For sponsorship, partnership and editorial opportunities, please contact Rich Branch, E.V.P. of Race Central TV and Radio Network Partners at 949.200.7369 or rich@racecentralmedia.com. 

About MavTV

MavTV is a 24-hour cable and satellite television network targeting the male demographic. It was launched on October 1, 2004 and is available in over 70 markets across the U.S., Canada, the UK and Australia among others internationally. With a variety of original programming that includes series like "AMA Motorcycle Racing," "American Tailgater," "Bikini All-Stars," "Ultimate Combat Experience," and "Lucas Oil Motorsports Events."  MavTV continues to grow and added an HD feed in August 2008. In March 2008, the independently owned and operated MavTV partnered with Lucas Oil Products (www.lucasoil.com) in a comprehensive, strategic agreement that includes a significant investment by Lucas Oil in MavTV over the next four years.

 

On the Web:

http://www.mavtv.com/ (MavTV)

 

 

 

Formula DRIFT Prepares to Kick-off the 2009 Championship Season;
Round 1: Streets of Long Beach Activities and Drivers Entry List Announced



Long Beach, Calif. – March 31, 2009 – Formula DRIFT prepares to kick-off the 2009 professional championship season with a host of events leading up to the main competition weekend on April 10-11. Round 1: Streets of Long Beach also marks the debut of new cars and drivers and the return of top drifters from around the world.

“The 2009 Formula DRIFT season will be as entertaining and exciting as ever,” says Ryan Sage, vice-president of marketing and co-founder of Formula DRIFT. “In addition to the main event on the 10-11th we have also lined up some great local, fan-friendly events in Long Beach to add to the overall weekend.”

To kick-off the season on Thursday April 9, Formula DRIFT will converge on Downtown Long Beach at 5 PM. The entire roster of drivers and cars will parade from the track into the heart of downtown. The competition vehicles will be on display on Pine and Broadway and fans will have a chance to meet and greet with the drivers. As an added bonus, 2-time Formula DRIFT champion Samuel Hubinette, will be premiering his new DVD “Drift Ya Later,” at Smooth's Sports Grille. The festivities are free and will go from continue from 5 PM to 9 PM.

After the first day of Formula DRIFT action on Friday, April 10, Hooters on Pine Ave. in Downtown Long Beach will be hosting a reception for the Formula DRIFT teams. Fans are welcome to join in on the festivities with the drivers. The action takes place from 7 PM to 9 PM.

Round 1: Streets of Long Beach tickets are available via the Formula DRIFT website at www.formuladrift.com. Ticket prices start at $28 online for a Saturday reserved seat. Friday, April 10th has been opened to the public as a “Preview Day,” and will feature practice and qualifying. Fans can buy access to Friday's event for just $5 more. Grandstands 16 and 18 have been expanded this season to give more fans the best view of the action. Taking place during the opening ceremonies on Saturday, April 11, West Coast Customs will be presenting reigning Formula DRIFT champion Tanner Foust with a custom-built GTO. The presentation will be aired on an upcoming episode of “Street Customs” on the TLC channel. West Coast Customs owner Ryan Friedlinghaus will be handing the keys to Foust exclusively at this event.

New cars and drivers will make their debut at the season opener. The addition of the Top 32 competition format at this event will give the fans the most excitement and action. The drivers will test their limits on the only actual course that takes place on real city streets.

Round 1: Streets of Long Beach Entry List
Friday, April 10 and Saturday, April 11


 
Calvin Wan
Carl Rydquist
Casper Canul
Chris Forsberg
Chris Kregorian
Cody Parkhouse
Colin Frost
Conrad Grunewald
Daijiro Yoshihara
Dan Pina
Darren McNamara
Doug VanDenBrink
Eric O'Sullivan
Gary Lang
Hiro Sumida
Ivan Lim
Jeff Jones
Jodin LeJeune
John Russakoff
Joon Maeng
Justin Pawlak
Katsuhiro Ueo
Kazu Hayashida
Ken Gushi
Kenji Yamanaka
Kyle Mohan
Matt Waldin
Matt Powers
Michael Essa
Michihiro Takatori
Patrick Mordaunt
Quoc Ly
Rhys Millen
Robbie Nishida
Ron Ewerth
Ross Petty
Ryan Tuerck
Ryuji Miki
Samuel Hubinette
Stephan Verdier
Taka Aono
Tanner Foust
Tommy Suell
Tony Brakohiapa
Tyler McQuarrie
Vaughn Gittin Jr.
Yasu Kondo

 
Falken Tire Nissan S15 Silvia
City Tire / Kallusive Clothing Nissan 350Z
ARK Performance / Frontmann Competitive Corp. Nissan S14.5
NOS Energy Drink / Maxxis Tire Nissan 350Z Roadster
Milano Motorsports / AIT Racing Nissan 350Z LS 1
DMAX / Cooper Tires Nissan S13
Cooper Tires / Sun Auto Nissan 240SX
Chevy Corvette
Falken Tire / Discount Tire Lexus IS350
Griggs Racing / Paxton Super Chargers Ford Mustang 5.0
Falken Tire / Sears Saturn Sky
Privateer Ford Mustang
Rockstar Energy Drink / Hankook Tire Subaru STI
Spec Clutch / Hinson Super Cars Nissan S13.4
Greddy / OS Giken USA Toyota Cressida
Goodyear Racing / Binter Nissan S13
Comp. Turbo / K&N Filters Nissan S13
BF Goodrich / Eneos Oil TBA
JSP Fab / Falken Tires Toyota 84 Corolla
Maxxis Tire / LS Auto Nissan S13.5
Mazda USA / Cooper Tire / Bergenholtz Racing Mazda RX8
Driftspeed / Behrman Nissan S15
Maziora / Signal Auto Nissan Silvia S15
RS*R / Toyo Tires Scion tC
Maziora / Signal Auto Nissan Silvia S15
Mazda USA / Cooper Tire Mazda RX-8
Tuner Icons / Import Intelligence Nissan 350Z
Privateer Nissan S14
Tech Trix Motorsports / DTC Performance Mazda RX-7
Bridges Racing / Toyo Tires Nissan S13
PM Racing / Brian Crower Nissan 240SX
Driftspeed / Behrman Nissan S14
Red Bull / RMR Hyundai Genesis Coupe
Hankook Tire / Dynamic Autosports Nissan 350Z
BF Goodrich Tire / Eneos Oil TBA
Garage Boso / Falken Tire Nissan S15
Gardella Racing / Mobil 1/ Tomei Pontiac Solstice GXP
APEXi / Hankook Tire Mazda RX-7
Mopar / NuFormz Racing TBA
Cooper Tire / Crawford Performance Subaru STI
Technosquare / OS Giken Toyota AE86 Corolla
Rockstar Energy Drink / Hankook Tire Scion tC
Toyo Tires / Allegiant Air Toyota AE86 Corolla
Cooper Tire / Sam's Autobody Ford Mustang
Falken Tire / GoPro Nissan 350Z
Falken Tire / Ford Racing 2010 Mustang GT
KAAZ USA Toyota AE86 Corolla

 


For more information visit www.formuladrift.com.

 

 

 

ATI's Chris Rini is Ready for the 2009 Season



CARMEL, NY-- After a busy and wet start to the 2009 season Chris Rini is prepared to do battle against the heavy hitters in the NMCA ProStreet class. After a successful first year racing in the NMCA and a # 4 finish in the books, Rini is coming back for more with his ATI Performance Products sponsored Dodge Stratus.

Rini and the Stratus Team have made some changes this year forming a new alliance with Buck Racing Engines. Charlie from Buck Racing Engines has been a great friend of Rini & Scott Cozzali for years and they have decided to put the Buck engine to the ultimate test. The motors have been updated to 747” & 784” with both motors getting brand new manifolds from Speedtech along with 4 stages of Speedtech Nitrous.

A 3-day test session at Valdosta, GA along with early dyno numbers show promise for 2009. All is well with the combination and string of E.T.'s at 6.43, 6.41, 6.41, 6.41 & 6.40, all over 218 mph, things are looking good for the start of the season.

Back for 2009 is ATI Performance Products, with its dedication and thoroughness to the demands of today's high horsepower drag cars. With the development of the Superglide 3 and its proven consistency and some new design converters Rini and the Stratus Team are stocked and ready for battle. Rini and ATI have pulled all the stops with extensive testing and development to stay on top of the industry with the quickest Powerglide on the planet.

On the schedule for the 2009 season, Rini and the Stratus Team have committed to run the entire Piedmont Big Dawg series, along with the Mooresville's Mad Dawg series, select IHRA Top Sportsman National Events & the NHRA Southern Nationals in Atlanta as a part of the Invitational Top Sportsman race.

After officially splash-landing into the 2009 season*, Rini and his team are hoping to keep the adrenaline pumping with an exciting and successful season. Don't worry; they will keep all flights to a minimum.

*Chris Rini was a passenger on US Airways flight 1549 which made an emergency landing in the Hudson River following a double bird strike on January 15, 2009.

# # #

 

 

Formula DRIFT Announces 2009 FD Pro Am Schedule


Long Beach, Calif. – March 24, 2009 – Formula DRIFT has announced the 2009 Pro Am Schedule. Formula DRIFT will partner with the nation's most experienced regional, grassroots, and amateur organizations to take this three year old program to new heights in search of the future stars of drifting.

The Pro Am program is multi-faceted with events taking place directly during Formula DRIFT weekends, events held within Hot Import Nights, and events that are in affiliation with Formula DRIFT such as Drift Mania Canadian Championship East and West and Just Drift. These affiliate events will be awarding their champions and top finishers will be granted automatic Formula DRIFT licenses. Additionally, affiliates also have the right to qualify their drivers for the Pro AM Nationals held later in the year.

Pro Am events held directly in alliance with Formula DRIFT will be qualifying events for the Pro AM nationals. Pro AM events held at Formula DRIFT events also come with a unique experience for amateur drifters as they will be pitted directly with the Formula DRIFT drivers and will experience a professional drifting atmosphere from beginning to end. The events held at Hot Import Nights will also be qualifying events for the Pro Am Nationals.

“Formula DRIFT has had the Pro Am system in place for the last 3 years and it has produced FD Pros like Justin Pawlak, Bill Sherman, John Russakoff, Joon Maeng and others. This new program will only push the search for the next Formula DRIFT stars forward,” said Jim Liaw, co-founder and president of Formula DRIFT. “We are proud to have partnered with the most experienced and respected organizations in the country and are excited to put together the largest Pro Am Nationals event later this year.”

Affiliate Programs Qualifying Competitions:

Hot Import Nights in association with US Drift
  April 11 – Austin, TX
  April 25 – Tampa, FL
  May 15 – New York, NY
  July 11 – Chicago, IL
  Top 4 drivers from each competition will receive invitations to FD Pro Am Nationals

Formula DRIFT Round 2 in association with US Drift
  May 8-9 – Braselton, GA
  Top 4 drivers will receive invitations to FD Pro Am Nationals

Formula DRIFT Round 4 in association with Vegas Drift
  July 10-11 – Las Vegas, NV
  Top 4 drivers will receive invitations to FD Pro Am Nationals

Formula DRIFT Round 5
  August 7-8 – Monroe, WA
  Top 4 drivers will receive invitations to FD Pro Am Nationals

Formula DRIFT Round 7 in association with Drift Association
  October 16 – Irwindale, CA
  Top 4 drivers will receive invitations to FD Pro Am Nationals

Affiliate Series:

Just Drift's Top Drift Series
  Round 1 - March 1 – Willow Springs Raceway
  Round 2 - April 26 – Las Vegas Motor Speedway
  Round 3 - Sept 5 and 6 – Willow Springs Raceway, Streets of Willow
  Round 4 - Oct 24 and 25 – Willow Springs Raceway, Horse Thief Mile Canyon Course
  Series Champion, #2 and #3 will automatically receives FD Pro License
  Series #4-8 receives invitations to FD Pro Am Nationals

DMCC East
  Round 1 - June 13 and 14 - Autodrome Montmagny, Quebec
  Round 2 - June 27 and 28 - Autodrome St-Eustache, Montreal
  Round 3 - July 25 and 26 - St Croix, Quebec
  Round 4 - August 15 and 16 - Downsview Park, Toronto
  Round 5 - Sept 6 and 7 - Autodrome St-Eustache, Montreal
  Series Champion automatically receives FD Pro License
  #2,3,4 in Series receives invitations to FD Pro Am Nationals

DMCC West
  Round 1- May 31 - Castrol Raceway, Edmonton
  Round 2 - TBD
  Round 3 - August 22 - Western Speedway, Vancouver Island
  Round 4 - September 6 - Castrol Raceway, Edmonton
  Series Champion automatically receives FD Pro License
  #2,3,4 in Series receives invitations to FD Pro Am Nationals

Formula DRIFT Pro Am Nationals in association with Hot Import Nights:

Hot Import Nights in association with US Drift
  December 5 - Firebird International Raceway – Phoenix, AZ
  Drivers from Affiliate Qualifying Competitions and Qualifying Series as well as Formula DRIFT Pro   drivers needing license renewals will be converging in Phoenix for the largest Pro Am competition   ever held

*Terms and Schedules Subject to Change*

For more information visit www.formuladrift.com.
 



ABOUT FORMULA DRIFT

Entering its sixth season, Formula DRIFT is recognized as the North American professional drifting championship. Established on the streets of Japan, drifting has evolved into a worldwide competitive sport that challenges each driver's driving ability and vehicle control. Formula DRIFT provides a forum for professional drifters to compete in 7 events nationwide for the coveted Formula DRIFT Championship crown. As the first official series in North America, Formula DRIFT has taken competitive motorsports to the extreme attracting fans and car enthusiasts from all walks of life and establishes itself as the global focal point for the Sport. For a race schedule and ticket information, visit: www.formuladrift.com.

ABOUT IMG SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment's diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year. More information is available at: www.imgworld.com.

 

 

 

 

 

It's with a heavy heart that I have to inform you that Bob Gilbertson's wife Sally passed away yesterday after a brief illness.

 

February 24, 2009

Formula DRIFT Prepares for Sixth Professional Championship Season;
Round 1: Streets of Long Beach Tickets On-Sale Thursday, February 26



Long Beach, Calif. – February 24, 2009 – Formula DRIFT prepares to begin the sixth professional championship season. Reserved tickets will be available online starting Thursday, February 26 for Round 1: Streets of Long Beach on April 10 and 11. The season opener will feature the world debut of new drift cars, new and returning drivers, and lots more.

“Formula DRIFT is excited to enter its sixth season of competition and we have a lot of new things in store for the fans,” said Jim Liaw, co-founder and president of Formula DRIFT. “We are proud to present the world debut of new competition vehicles at Long Beach including the 2010 Ford Mustang driven by Vaughn Gittin, Jr., the 2010 Dodge Challenger driven by 2-time Formula DRIFT champion, Samuel Hubinette, and the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe driven by World Champion and Formula DRIFT champion, Rhys Millen. In these tough economic times it is great to see that auto manufacturers have chosen Formula DRIFT as one of their main motorsports platforms.”

Round 1: Streets of Long Beach tickets will be available beginning February 26 via the Formula DRIFT website at www.formuladrift.com. Ticket prices start at $28 online with reserved tickets available for Saturday's competition day. Friday, April 10th has been opened to the public as a “Preview Day,” and will feature practice and qualifying at a minimal cost with purchase of a Saturday “Main Event” ticket. Grandstands 16 and 18 have been expanded this season to give more fans the best view of the action.

Round 1: Streets of Long Beach April 10-11 Ticket Pricing

 


Saturday, April 11- Reserved Seating
Saturday, April 11 - Reserved Seating + Friday, April 10 - GA


 
Online / Pre-Sale
$28.00
$32.00

 

 

“Even in this tough economy we have managed to keep ticket prices low, while still expanding to a two day format,” said Ryan Sage, co-founder and vice president of marketing for Formula DRIFT. “Reserved tickets allow our fans to never lose their seat so they can walk around at leisure and enjoy what has become one of the most anticipated events of the year in and around Southern California.”

The action begins on April 10th in Long Beach, California and will be held on a section of the famous Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach street course. New cars and drivers will be entering the Series and will make for another exciting season. The addition of Top 32 tandem battle will be sure to challenge the drivers and add to the action. Current back-to-back Formula DRIFT Champion, Tanner Foust and World Champion Rhys Millen make their return on different vehicle platforms and will battle against the best drifters for the Formula DRIFT championship.

For more information visit www.formuladrift.com.
 

 



ABOUT FORMULA DRIFT

Entering its sixth season, Formula DRIFT is recognized as the North American professional drifting championship. Established on the streets of Japan, drifting has evolved into a worldwide competitive sport that challenges each driver's driving ability and vehicle control. Formula DRIFT provides a forum for professional drifters to compete in 7 events nationwide for the coveted Formula DRIFT Championship crown. As the first official series in North America, Formula DRIFT has taken competitive motorsports to the extreme attracting fans and car enthusiasts from all walks of life and establishes itself as the global focal point for the Sport. For a race schedule and ticket information, visit: www.formuladrift.com.

ABOUT IMG SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment's diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year. More information is available at: www.imgworld.com.

 

 

 

Red Bull Drifting World Championship Tickets On-Sale;
Featuring an All Reserved Seating Layout



Long Beach, Calif. – October 8, 2008 – Tickets for the Red Bull Drifting World Championship are now available online for the November 15-16, 2008 event at the Port of Long Beach in Long Beach, CA and will feature an all reserved seating layout.

Red Bull Drifting World Championship tickets are available online at www.formuladrift.com and start at $35 for a 2-day pass. VIP tickets are also available online and will include: 2-Day reserved seating in a covered sky box, food & beverage, on-site parking, and a discount coupon for the Formula DRIFT merchandise tent. Formula DRIFT has taken care of the service charges for all online ticket purchases and there will be absolutely no service charge for online transactions.

“Online ticket purchases are very much encouraged as they provide the lowest possible price and guaranteed admission into the event,” says Ryan Sage, V.P of marketing of Formula DRIFT. “Formula DRIFT and Red Bull want to provide the fans with the best consumer experience and make purchasing tickets as easy as possible.”

Tickets will also be available on event days, November 15 & 16, at the Long Beach Convention Center, which will serve as the official event hub for the Red Bull Drifting World Championship. Fans will be able to park, purchase tickets, and take a courtesy shuttle to the secret event venue from this location.

 

 

Formula DRIFT Round 5: Breaking Point;
Rhys Millen Takes the Victory in the First Rain Event in Series History



Long Beach, Calif. – August 11, 2008 – Formula DRIFT entered Evergreen Speedway in Monroe, Washington for Round 5: Breaking Point and former Formula DRIFT Champion Rhys Millen takes home his 2nd victory this season. Samuel Hubinette takes over the lead in the chase for the Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup with a second place finish at the first rain event in Formula DRIFT history.

Entering the Pacific Northwest at Evergreen Speedway rain was not a big surprise as showers in the morning and during the Top 16 competition created the first ever rain event in Formula DRIFT history. The track became wet and the drivers had to adjust to the new conditions. The competition was exciting as the drivers proved complete car control on the banked oval and tight technical turns.

“The rain made for one of the most exciting events in the history of Formula DRIFT,” said Jim Liaw, President and Co-founder of Formula DRIFT. “The fans from Pacific Northwest are some of the most dedicated fans and despite the wet weather they stayed glued to their seats for the entire event. These conditions definitely showcased the skillfulness of Formula DRIFT’s pro drivers.”

All 3 previous Formula DRIFT champions remained in the Final Four. Third place finisher Robbie Nishida and the Hankook / Peak Performance Nissan 350Z found the podium for his first time since his debut in 2005 by defeating current champion Tanner Foust in a very close consolation round. The final battle pitted 2-time Formula DRIFT Champion Samuel Hubinette in his Nuformz / Mopar Dodge Viper against former Formula DRIFT Champion Rhys Millen in the Red Bull Pontiac Solstice. The two faced off and Millen took home the victory for his second win this season and moved him up to the fourth place overall in the Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup point standings. Hubinette with this second place finish takes the top spot over Tanner Foust by 12 points. The competition is as fierce as ever with less than 45 points separating the top 3 drivers. The action continues on at Round 6: Locked and Loaded on September 13 at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, California.


Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup 2008 Point Standings

 
1. Hubinette
2. Foust
3. Yoshihara
4. Millen
5. Forsberg
6. Takatori
7. Tuerck
8. McNamara
9. Grunewald
10. Nishida
11. Miki
12. Gittin, Jr.
13. Verdier
14. Gushi
15. Mohan
16. Hayashida

 
Nuformz Racing / Mopar Dodge Viper SRT10
Rockstar / AEM Nissan 350Z
Bridgestone / RMR Pontiac GTO
Red Bull Pontiac Solstice
NOS Energy Drink Nissan 350Z
Super Autobacs Nissan Skyline R34
Gardella Racing / Mobil1 Pontiac Solstice
Falken / Sears Auto Center Saturn Sky
Nitto / Tanaka Racing Chevrolet Corvette
Hankook / Dynamic Autosport Nissan 350Z
APEXi / Nitto Mazda RX7
Falken / Ford Racing Mustang
Cooper / Crawford Performance Subaru STI
RS*R Scion tC
Kyle Mohan Racing / Cooper / Mazdatrix RX-7
Signal / Maziora Nissan Skyline GT-R34

 
409 Points
397 Points
366 Points
355 Points
338 Points
326 Points
317 Points
237Points
229.25 Points
200.25 Points
183.50 Points
182.50 Points
169.50 Points
166.50 Points
125.50 Points
123 Points

 

Tires.com Triple Crown 2008 Point Standings

 

1. Millen
2. Yoshihara
3. Takatori

 
Red Bull Pontiac Solstice GXP
Bridgestone / RMR Pontiac GTO
Super Autobacs Nissan Skyline R34

 
170 Points
166 Points
157 Points

 

Formula DRIFT Round 5: Breaking Point Event Results

 

1. Millen
2. Hubinette
3. Nishida

 
Red Bull Pontiac Solstice
Nuformz Racing / Mopar Dodge Viper SRT10
Hankook / Dynamic Autosport Nissan 350Z

 
101 Points
96 Points
83 Points

 


Full official standings available on: www.formuladrift.com

 



ABOUT FORMULA DRIFT

Entering its fifth season, Formula DRIFT is recognized as the North American professional drifting championship series. Established on the streets of Japan, drifting has involved into a worldwide competitive sport that challenges each racer's driving ability and vehicle control. Formula DRIFT provides a forum for North American professionals to demonstrate their skills against the world's top drifters. As the first official series in North America, Formula DRIFT has taken competitive motorsports to the extreme attracting fans and car enthusiasts from all walks of life. For a race schedule and ticket information, visit: www.formuladrift.com.

About IMG

IMG is the world's premier Sports, Entertainment and Media Company. IMG is a diversified global business with two major business segments: IMG Sports & Entertainment, and IMG Media. IMG employs over 2,500 people in 30 countries. Forstmann Little & Co. purchased IMG in 2004.

IMG Sports & Entertainment includes: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, European football, rugby, cricket, motorsports, coaching, Olympic sports and action sports. In addition, IMG Academies are the world's largest and most advanced, state-of-the-art, multi-sport training and educational facility, delivering world-class sports training experiences to over 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult and professional athletes each year.

IMG Media, which includes our content production subsidiaries TWI, Darlow Smithson Productions (DSP) and Tiger Aspect Productions (TAP), is recognized as a global leader in the delivery of traditional and new media content and services, with Internet, broadband and mobile expertise, transforming how audiences access and interact with content.

IMG Media produces and distributes over 10,000 hours of sports, documentary, drama, comedy, entertainment, popular factual and children's content annually, over multiple platforms across 200 countries, including award-winning television and radio programming. It also represents the broadcast rights to many of the world's premier sporting events and has the world's biggest sports archive with more than 200,000 hours of footage.

More information about IMG is available at www.imgworld.com.


Formula DRIFT Holdings, LLC | 200 Pine Avenue, Suite 615 | Long Beach, CA 90802

 

 

 

Formula DRIFT Round 4: High Stakes;
Toshiki Yoshioka Takes Win at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway



Long Beach, Calif. – July 15, 2008 – Formula DRIFT entered Las Vegas Motor Speedway for the first time for Round 4: High Stakes and rookie Toshiki Yoshioka took home the victory. This event also marked the 2nd event of the Tires.com Triple Crown bonus prize with Rhys Millen holding the lead over teammate Daijiro Yoshihara.

Entering Las Vegas Motor Speedway for the first time the Formula DRIFT Championship presented by Circuit City came back to the West Coast. The course became the fastest on the circuit with multiple drivers topping the high 90 mph range with their initial drift through the challenging track. The competition was as tough as ever with many new faces and vehicles entering the competition.

The event showcased one of the most diverse fields in Formula DRIFT history with the world’s best drivers from around the world participating at the event. Drivers such as Toshiki Yoshioka from Japan, Christian Pickering from Australia, JT Wharerau from New Zealand, and world renowned Japanese racing star Manabu “Max” Orido made his Formula DRIFT debut. Japan came out on top with both Daijiro Yoshihara in his Bridgestone / RMR Pontiac Solstice GXP and Toshiki Yoshioka in his ASpec / Works Bell Toyota Sprinter Trueno making it to the finals. After a hard fought battle, Formula DRIFT rookie, Toshiki Yoshioka took home top honors in only his 2nd Formula DRIFT appearance.

“The diversity of the series was proven with drivers coming from around the world to compete in Formula DRIFT competition,” said Jim Liaw, President and Co-founder of Formula DRIFT. “You never know who will come out on top as we had a different winner each round so far. It was also proof of our diversity with three pre-1986 Toyota Corollas making it to the head-to-head round and upsetting some of the higher horsepower vehicles.”

At the halfway point of the season the competition for the Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup is as tight as ever with 2007 Formula DRIFT Champion Tanner Foust and his Rockstar / AEM Nissan 350Z leading the way and with less than 15 points separating Foust from 2-time Formula DRIFT champion Samuel Hubinette in his Nuformz Racing / Mopar Dodge Viper SRT10 is 2nd in points and top contender Daijiro Yoshihara in his Bridgestone / RMR Pontiac GTO following in 3rd, it will be a hard fought battle to the end. This event also marked the 2nd event for the Tires.com Triple Crown bonus prize and Rhys Millen leads the way by 4 points over teammate Daijiro Yoshihara. Formula DRIFT action continues on August 9 at the Evergreen Speedway in Monroe, WA.


Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup 2008 Point Standings

 
1. Foust
2. Hubinette
3. Yoshihara
4. Forsberg
5. Takatori
6. Tuerck
6.. Millen
8. Gittin, Jr.
9. Grunewald
10. McNamara
11. Verdier
12. Miki
13. Nishida
14. Gushi
15. Yamanaka
16. Yoshioka

 
Rockstar / AEM Nissan 350Z
Nuformz Racing Mopar Dodge Viper SRT10
Bridgestone / RMR Pontiac GTO
NOS Energy Drink Nissan 350Z
Super Autobacs Nissan Skyline R34
Gardella Racing / Mobil1 Pontiac Solstice
Red Bull Pontiac Solstice GXP
Falken / Ford Racing Mustang
Nitto / Tanaka Racing Chevrolet Corvette
Falken / Sears Auto Center Saturn Sky
Cooper / Crawford Performance Subaru STI
APEXi / Nitto Mazda RX7
Hankook / Peak Performance Nissan 350Z
RS*R Scion tC
Signal / Maziora Nissan S14
Aspec / Works Bell Toyota Sprinter Trueno

 
321 Points
313 Points
308 Points
282 Points
265 Points
254 Points
254 Points
182.25 Points
173.25 Points
172 Points
169.25 Points
119.50 Points
117.25 Points
111.50 Points
110.25 Points
104.25 Points

 

Tires.com Triple Crown 2008 Point Standings

 

1. Millen
2. Yoshihara
3. Takatori

 
Red Bull Pontiac Solstice GXP
Bridgestone / RMR Pontiac GTO
Super Autobacs Nissan Skyline R34

 
170 Points
166 Points
157 Points

 

Formula DRIFT Round 4: High Stakes Event Results

 

1. Yoshioka
2. Yoshihara
3. Hubinette

 
Aspec / Works Bell Toyota Sprinter Trueno
Bridgestone / RMR Pontiac GTO
Nuformz Racing / Mopar Dodge Viper SRT10

 
104.25 Points
308 Points
313 Points

 


Full official standings available on: www.formuladrift.com

 

For more information contact:
John Pangilinan
The ID Agency
562.491.7503
john@theidagency.com



ABOUT FORMULA DRIFT

Entering its fifth season, Formula DRIFT is recognized as the North American professional drifting championship series. Established on the streets of Japan, drifting has involved into a worldwide competitive sport that challenges each racer's driving ability and vehicle control. Formula DRIFT provides a forum for North American professionals to demonstrate their skills against the world's top drifters. As the first official series in North America, Formula DRIFT has taken competitive motorsports to the extreme attracting fans and car enthusiasts from all walks of life. For a race schedule and ticket information, visit: www.formuladrift.com.

About IMG

IMG is the world's premier Sports, Entertainment and Media Company. IMG is a diversified global business with two major business segments: IMG Sports & Entertainment, and IMG Media. IMG employs over 2,500 people in 30 countries. Forstmann Little & Co. purchased IMG in 2004.

IMG Sports & Entertainment includes: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, European football, rugby, cricket, motorsports, coaching, Olympic sports and action sports. In addition, IMG Academies are the world's largest and most advanced, state-of-the-art, multi-sport training and educational facility, delivering world-class sports training experiences to over 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult and professional athletes each year.

IMG Media, which includes our content production subsidiaries TWI, Darlow Smithson Productions (DSP) and Tiger Aspect Productions (TAP), is recognized as a global leader in the delivery of traditional and new media content and services, with Internet, broadband and mobile expertise, transforming how audiences access and interact with content.

IMG Media produces and distributes over 10,000 hours of sports, documentary, drama, comedy, entertainment, popular factual and children's content annually, over multiple platforms across 200 countries, including award-winning television and radio programming. It also represents the broadcast rights to many of the world's premier sporting events and has the world's biggest sports archive with more than 200,000 hours of footage.

More information about IMG is available at www.imgworld.com.
 

 

 

Formula DRIFT Announces Red Bull Drifting World Championship;
World’s Best Drifters to Compete for Largest Drifting Prize Purse



LONG BEACH, Calif. – July 14, 2008 – Formula DRIFT, North America’s premier drifting Sanctioning Body, has partnered with Red Bull Energy Drink, the world’s leading energy drink, to create one of the world’s most anticipated drifting events ever – the Red Bull Drifting World Championship. The event, which will feature 32 of the world’s best drifters, will be held on the docks at the Port of Long Beach, Calif., on Saturday, November 15, 2008.

The Red Bull Drifting World Championship will bring the best drifting drivers in the world together to compete in a single historic event. Drivers from the United States, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Europe and Canada will participate, but only one will claim the title of Red Bull Drifting World Champion. Current and past champions from the world’s top professional drifting series will receive an exclusive invitation to showcase their skills and compete for the largest drifting prize purse ever offered.

“Formula DRIFT has worked over the last five years to bring the drifting world closer together via our partnered events in Singapore and Mexico as well as our open door/open dialogue with the top professional drifting leagues from each corner of the world. We are excited to be able to team up with Red Bull to bring the world together and stage the toughest competition with the best drivers,” stated Jim Liaw, President/Co-Founder of Formula DRIFT.

The purpose-built course will include unprecedented features that will test the limits of the drivers and their cars such as a long straight to ensure triple-digit entry speeds, a big, sweeping first turn for high-speed drifting and multiple, technically challenging turns. Trackside viewing areas will allow spectators to get up close and personal with the competition.

“It is an exciting time for the sport of drifting. Red Bull is the leader for innovative sporting events worldwide and now drivers will be challenged like never before in a completely different environment than we’re used to,” said Rhys Millen, 2005 Formula DRIFT champion. “I'm proud to be flying the Red Bull colors heading into the Red Bull Drifting World Championship.”

Formula DRIFT, North America’s professional drifting championship series, will play the role of organizer, co-promoter, and sanctioning body for the World Championship event. Judging will be based on current Formula DRIFT rules and regulations with the possible addition of two international judges.

More information will be disclosed at a later date including brand and media partners and participating drivers.



ABOUT FORMULA DRIFT

Entering its fifth season, Formula DRIFT is recognized as the North American professional drifting championship series. Established on the streets of Japan, drifting has involved into a worldwide competitive sport that challenges each racer's driving ability and vehicle control. Formula DRIFT provides a forum for North American professionals to demonstrate their skills against the world's top drifters. As the first official series in North America, Formula DRIFT has taken competitive motorsports to the extreme attracting fans and car enthusiasts from all walks of life. For a race schedule and ticket information, visit: www.formuladrift.com.

ABOUT IMG SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment’s diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year. More information is available at: www.imgworld.com.
 

 

LifeLock.com 400 - Chicagoland Speedway
Jul 12 - LifeLock.com 400 - Chicagoland Speedway
Final Pts/Bonus
1.  Kyle Busch (18) 195/10
2.  Jimmie Johnson (48) 175/5
3.  Kevin Harvick (29) 165/0
4.  Greg Biffle (16) 165/5
5.  Tony Stewart (20) 160/5
6.  Brian Vickers (83) 155/5
7.  Matt Kenseth (17) 151/5
8.  David Ragan (6) 142/0
9.  Martin Truex Jr. (1) 143/5
10.  Ryan Newman (12) 134/0

 

 

Gilbertson to temporarily suspend racing operations
 
Plans to return to action at the Charlotte race in September
 
CHARLOTTE, N.C. --  Bob Gilbertson, owner/driver of the Tradicion Azul Tequila nitro Funny Car, announced that he will temporarily suspend his racing activities for a few months so he can devote all of his attention to his business, Truck Equipment Manufacturing Company (TEMCO).
 
"This is one of the toughest decisions I've ever had to make," said Gilbertson from his Charlotte office.  "This is strictly a business decision. TEMCO is at a critical turning point and I've got to be at the tank plant everyday to oversee all the new contracts with TACOM/ARMY that we're bidding on so we can take TEMCO to the next level and make sure that the company continues to grow.  With the downturn in the economy we've been struggling lately and I need to be on top of everything and regretfully the race team has to be parked for a while so I can concentrate on business."
 
"My goal is to hit 20 million in sales by the end of the this year and be able to go racing once again.  It used to be that you could run one of these nitro cars with a million dollar budget but that's not the case anymore.  Even though we have a great sponsor with Tradicion Azul Tequila the funding isn't enough to do it competitively and right now, with money being tight, I just can't jeopardize TEMCO to fuel my passion, driving a nitro Funny car. With the new busness that we have secured with the Army and when the economy turns around to the plus we'll be able to get back on race track.
 
"We're in the process of renewing our contract with Tradicion Azul Tequila for the next three years and with their increased support as the product becomes available across the country we will be able to come out in the 4th quarter of 2008 just in time to mess with some of the big players in the points chase.  It's no secret that these cars run on money and without marketing partners like Tradicion Azul who realize that their return on their investment in drag racing is a good deal, an independent team like ours is dead in the water. Everything will work out in the end and we'll see you out there in the fall."

 

 

July 2, 2008

Formula DRIFT Announcement;
Judge Alex Pfeiffer to Step Down as Drifting Judge to Pursue Driving


LONG BEACH, Calif. – July 2, 2008 – Formula DRIFT Judge Alex Pfeiffer will officially be stepping down as judge and make his return to driving. Pfeiffer’s return to competition will begin at Formula DRIFT Round 4: High Stakes on July 11-12 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

After 2 years of contributing to develop the current standard in judging, Alex Pfeiffer will be returning to his roots behind the wheel of a drift car. His official return to Formula DRIFT competition will begin in Round 4: High Stakes on July 11-12 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Pfeiffer will be working on developing a full time team for the 2009 Formula DRIFT Championship Series.

“Formula DRIFT would like to thank Alex for his sacrifices and contribution to the Series and the sport of drifting,” said Jim Liaw, president and co-founder of Formula DRIFT. “We are excited to see him come back as a competitor in the Series.”
 

 

Lenox Industrial Tools 301 - New Hampshire Motor Speedway
Jun 29 - Lenox Industrial Tools 301 - New Hampshire Motor Speedway
Final Pts/Bonus
1.  Kurt Busch (2) 190/5
2.  Michael Waltrip (55) 170/0
3.  J.J. Yeley (96) 165/0
4.  Martin Truex Jr. (1) 160/0
5.  Elliott Sadler (19) 155/0
6.  Reed Sorenson (41) 150/0
7.  Casey Mears (5) 151/5
8.  Denny Hamlin (11) 142/0
9.  Jimmie Johnson (48) 138/0
10.  Bobby Labonte (43) 134/0

 

Toyota/Save Mart 350 - Infineon Raceway
Jun 22 - Toyota/Save Mart 350 - Infineon Raceway
Final Pts/Bonus
1.  Kyle Busch (18) 195/10
2.  David Gilliland (38) 170/0
3.  Jeff Gordon (24) 165/0
4.  Clint Bowyer (07) 160/0
5.  Casey Mears (5) 155/0
6.  Juan Pablo Montoya (42) 150/0
7.  Ryan Newman (12) 146/0
8.  Matt Kenseth (17) 142/0
9.  Carl Edwards (99) 143/5
10.  Tony Stewart (20) 134/0

 

 

 

Notice of Cancellation of NOPI Colorado and NOPI Utah Events

 

ATLANTA, Georgia – June 12, 2008 – Effective immediately, NOPI Motorsports is forced to cancel two upcoming NOPI Events located in Colorado (Drag Race and Car Show) previously set for June 21st and 22nd as well as the Utah event (Drag Race, Drift and Car Show) previously set for July 18th and 19th of 2008. NOPI Motorsports has faced extreme weather at their past 8 events, which has affected NOPI events in a great way. Each event the NOPI staff has pushed through these adversities to accommodate all of its sponsors, racers and fans in the best way possible given the circumstances. Many times events have been postponed and made up at a future event due to weather shutting down tracks and making it unsafe to run on.

This unfortunate turn of events has placed a major financial burden on NOPI Motorsports, which already faces an extremely challenging economy. With fuel costs at a record high, people are watching all of their extracurricular activities, and taking a chance at attending an event that would possibly be affected by weather plays a negative roll. “We have been running top notch events for years now,” said Michael Meyers, President of NOPI Motorsports. “I have never been faced with anything like this. We are having incredible support from racers and fans this year, in fact some of the best action we’ve ever seen has taken place here in 2008. There was no way to forecast any of this. We are working through all of it to see how we can make these events up. I apologize for the inconvenience this has caused to everyone. This is a major setback for NOPI Motorsports and new territory for all of us.”

Makeup events have not been announced for the two cancelled events located in Colorado and Utah. The NOPI Motorsports staff is working on the possibility of makeup rounds, as well as determining points towards the 2008 championships. Each of these issues will be addressed here shortly.

The next NOPI event will take place at the New England Dragway on August 2nd and 3rd

 

Best Buy 400

 

1st Place 2nd Place 3rd Place
 
K. Busch (18)
 
 
C. Edwards (99)
 
 
G. Biffle (16)
 
 Pos  Driver (No.)
 4  Matt Kenseth (17)
 5  Jeff Gordon (24)
 6  Martin Truex Jr. (1)
 7  Jimmie Johnson (48)
 8  Jeff Burton (31)
 9  Dave Blaney (22)
 10  Jamie McMurray (26)

 

 

 

Order Driver (No.) Car Pts/Bonus Laps Laps Led Winnings Lap Progress
 1 Kasey Kahne (9) Dodge 190/5 400 66 $422,766  
 2 Greg Biffle (16) Ford 175/5 400 2 $248,600  
 3 Kyle Busch (18) Toyota 170/5 400 61 $240,700  
 4 Jeff Gordon (24) Chevrolet 160/0 400 0 $197,011  
 5 Dale Earnhardt Jr. (88) Chevrolet 165/10 400 76 $152,925  
 6 Jeff Burton (31) Chevrolet 155/5 400 1 $167,433  
 7 Matt Kenseth (17) Ford 151/5 400 1 $163,341  
 8 Elliott Sadler (19) Dodge 147/5 400 3 $147,695  
 9 Carl Edwards (99) Ford 138/0 400 0 $160,425  
 10 David Reutimann (44) Toyota 134/0 400 0 $116,375  

 

 

 

Gilbertson looking to turn his season around at IHRA Suzuki Motor City Nationals

Bob Gilbertson, owner/driver of the Tradicion Azul Tequila nitro Funny Car, is on a mission and is looking to rebound at this weekend's IHRA Suzuki Motor City Nationals at Milan Dragway.

Gilbertson, who hasn't had a great start so far this year, is optimistically confident about his chances in Michigan as he made his best run so far this year last weekend at Bristol Dragway, a 4.847 at 318.77 MPH backed up by a 4.96 and it gives him and his team momentum going into the third stop on the IHRA circuit.

"It's no secret that we've been struggling this year but I think we've turned the corner and the whole team is looking for big numbers this weekend at Milan Dragway," Gilbertson said. "My crew chief Nicky (Boninfante) and the guys have been working really hard to give me a car I can win with and I believe that we're now ready to rumble."

Boninfante is as equally as excited about the team's chances at Milan.

"We've had a tough time so far this year with little gremlins haunting us but now that we've hopefully ironed all of them out I think we'll be a threat at Milan," Boninfante added. "Bob's been doing a great job driving the car and he's been cutting great lights, all we have to do is make sure everything is right and the car goes to the end of the track under power and we'll be in good shape. We've got a lot of catching up to do in the points chase and our goal is to go there and get every point we can."

 

 

NOPI Englishtown
May 3-4th 2008


 

Englishtown, NJ May 7, 2008 - This weekend for the first time NOPI came to Old Bridge Township Raceway Park in English Town, NJ. For the first time out NOPI definitely pulled of an outstanding event. This season hasn't been the best for NOPI when it comes to weather and this weekend was no different. Saturday the weather was cold and misty for most of the day which means the event and action wasn't as packed full as it could have been. The forecast looked much better for Sunday though and by 11AM the skies had cleared up and the event was filling with spectators. There were over 21,000 people in attendance to check out all the things NOPI has to offer. English Town is known for great racing action and this weekend didn't disappoint. Racers from all over the country and Puerto Rico came out in full force to see who would take home top honors this weekend. NOPI had 201 drag racers show up to compete this weekend and had 25 drifter show up to compete. Car competitors came from all over to see who had the hottest cars. There was every type of car for any individuals taste, from old school Honda’s to supercharged Hummer’s. In total there were 550 entrants that showed up to register for the car show. This just shows how great an event NOPI puts on seeing most of these numbers were just from Sunday.

There were some incredible drag racing going on all weekend long. Here are the drag race results from this weekend.

All Motor

Name Car ET
1st Jeremy Lookofsky 2006 Honda Civic 9.253
2nd Norris Praayoonto 2004 Honda Insight 9.455

Extreme Dragster

1st Dean Karns 1998 C&F Dragster 6.626
2nd Brian Fitzpatrick 2000 Spitzer Dragster 6.788

Hot Rod

1st Kenny Tran 2006 Scion Tc 8.012
2nd Bryan Jimenez 2008 Chevy Cobalt 8.302

Modified

1st Brent Rau 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse 7.086
2nd Boris Rojas 1988 Mazda RX-7 22.060

Power Street

1st Ben Frieman 1994 Honda Civic 10.440
2nd Stephen Lockett 1996 Dodge Neon 10.671

Pro FWD

1st Marty Ladwig 2007 Chevy Cobalt 7.167
2nd Gary Gardella 2007 Chevy Cobalt 7.397

Pro RWD

1st Carlos Montano 2007 Nissan 350Z 6.953
2nd Jorge Lazcano 1996 Mazda MX6 7.061

Quick 16

1st Hector Suarez 1982 Toyota Corolla 8.501
2nd Brenda Paddock 1983 Camaro 8.722

SCTuned Pure Street

1st Loan Nguyen 1995 Honda Civic 10.961
2nd Time Grey 1994 Honda Civic 11.165

Turbo Street

1st Brian Ballard 2006 Chevy Cobalt 9.527
2nd Kevin Van Natten 2004 Dodge Neon 9.882

Unlimited Street

1st William Thomas 1986 Ford Mustang 8.786
2nd Dan Dixon 1993 Toyota Supra Broke

This was the first time NOPI Drift came to the famed road course as Englishtown. The drifters showed up and really put on a great show this weekend letting it all hang out.
Here is a breakdown of how the drivers fared in this weekend’s great competition.

Top 3

1st Ryan Tuerck
2nd Nathan Brasz
3rd Forest Wang

Round 3

Top 4

Nathan Brasz 1990 Nissan 240SX Winner
Stewart Leask 1998 Nissan 240SX

Ryan Tuerck 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP Winner
Forrest Wang 1995 Nissan 240 SX

Round 2

Top 8

Stewart Leask 1998 Nissan 240SX Winner
Matthew Waldin 1992 Nissan 240SX

Nathan Brasz 1990 Nissan 240SX Winner
Kenji Yamanaka 1993 Nissan 240 SX

Ryan Tuerck 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP Winner
Ali Aljibouri 2007 Pontiac Solstice

Forrest Wang 1995 Nissan 240SX Winner
Aaron Loset N/A

Round 1

Top 16

Sammy “ Tiger” Sritongkham 1992 Nissan Skyline
Matthew Waldin 1992 Nissan 240SX Winner

Stewart Leask 1998 Nissan Skyline Winner
Tyler Cox N/A

Nathan Brasz 1990 Nissan 240 SX Winner
Shawn Milone 1991 Nissan 240SX

Doug Sobolewski 1993 Nissan 240SX
Kenji Yamanaka 1993 Nissan 240SX Winner

Ryan Tuerck 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP Winner
Evan Tuerck 1990 Nissan 240SX

Ali Aljibouri 2007 Pontiac Solstice Winner
Ron Ewerth 1990 Nissan 240SX

Forrest Wang 1995 Nissan 240 SX Winner
Dennis Mertzanis 1995 Nissan 240 SX

Aaron Losey N/A Winner
John Wagner N/A

 

Next Stop - May 17th and 18th Maryland International Raceway


 

 

 

 

Gilbertson's NHRA debut at Houston a huge success
 
HOUSTON --  Bob Gilbertson had one of the biggest weekends of his drag racing career at the NHRA Spring Nationals in Houston this past weekend.
 
Not only did Gilbertson debut a new marketing partner, Tradicion Azul Tequila, but at his first race of the season, Gilbertson managed to qualify when other top cars like Robert Hight, Scott Kalitta and Melanie Troxel failed to make the field.
 
Gilbertson was one of the most consistent cars all weekend and he ran three consecutive 4.9 second runs and qualified in the 11th spot where he was paired up with Ashley Force in the first round of eliminations.
 
Although Gilbertson had a .023 advantage off of the starting due to a better reaction time, his 4.97 second elapsed time at 311.27 mph was  barely eclipsed by Force's 4.92 at 316.30, a margin of victory of just a few feet.
 
All in all Gilbertson was very pleased with the results of his first outing in 2008.
 
"I had a big smile on my face on the plane ride back from Houston," Gilbertson said.  ""There's something about Houston, I don't know what it is, but we always do well there.  I won this race in 2000 and to show up at our first race of the year without having tested much and to achieve our goal of qualifying was a great start to our season. I've got to give all the credit to Nicky (Boninfante, crew chief) and all the guys on the team.  They worked together flawlessly, didn't make any mistakes and their long hours of work payed off."
 
"Plus the response to our new sponsor and our new graphics was phenomenal," Gilbertson added.  "Jay Pennington of Tradicion Azul Tequila attended the first drag race he's ever been to and he was blown away by the whole experience.  The fans all loved the car to put the icing on the cake we won the prestigious Best Appearing Crew award so the whole weekend was a great kick-off to the season."
 
Gilbertson and the Tradicion Azul Tequila nitro Funny Car team's next race will be this weekend's IHRA Texas Nationals in San Antonio April 4-6.
 
 
Sunday, Mar 30
Goody's Cool Orange 500 - Martinsville Speedway
Mar 30 - Goody's Cool Orange 500 - Martinsville Speedway
Final Pts/Bonus
1.  Denny Hamlin (11) 190/5
2.  Jeff Gordon (24) 175/5
3.  Jeff Burton (31) 170/5
4.  Jimmie Johnson (48) 165/5
5.  Tony Stewart (20) 155/0
6.  Dale Earnhardt Jr. (88) 160/10
7.  Casey Mears (5) 146/0
8.  Jamie McMurray (26) 142/0
9.  Carl Edwards (99) 138/0
10.  Clint Bowyer (07) 134/0

 

 

 

Scion Joins Forces with NOPI Motorsports




ATLANTA, GA, March 28, 2008- NOPI continues to add to its partnership portfolio by teaming up with Scion Corp for the Xplod NOPI Drag Racing Series Sanctioned by the NHRA. Racing is something that Scion does not take lightly and it shows. During the 2007 season Scion not only took home the Pro RWD championship but also set two world records while doing it. Being the first car in NHRA Sport Compact history to blast through the quarter mile in less than seven seconds while clocking in at over 200 mph is something that will definitely put you on the racing world’s radar. In the 2008 season, Scion Racing has entries in four out of five classes running in the Xplod NOPI Drag Racing Series Sanctioned by the NHRA

"The momentum for Scion drag racing has been building over the last few years and we expect it to increase as we continue our participation in NOPI Motorsports," said Steve Hatanaka, Scion auto shows and special events manager.  "Drag racing is an exciting motorsport.  It was thrilling to see our tC sports coupe speed down the track and take the championship last season.  It's also a great opportunity for Scion owners and enthusiasts to engage with our brand, experience the cars, get close to the track and meet the drivers."    

“It’s exciting to see Scion step up and become a great partner with NOPI Motorsports this year. It just makes sense. They have great products and an amazing backing from their owners who attend NOPI events. We are excited to see the competition through racing that Scion is going to bring. This is not only good for them and for NOPI, but great for all fans attending NOPI events.” said Michael Meyers, President of NOPI Motorsports.

Racing is not the only thing Scion and NOPI are about though. Style is a big part of the Scion lifestyle so for the Scion guys form matters just as much as function. Scion is helping their owners show off their form this season by holding Scion events at NOPI events across the country for owners to meet each other and share in the Scion experience. Scion was a big part of the NOPI scene last year, bringing fully built Scions to all the shows that showcased just how a Scion could be decked out. Scion brings an enthusiasm and excitement to every NOPI event and NOPI looks forward to making the 2008 season one the best one ye

 

 

 

Tradicion Azul Tequila to back Gilbertson
 
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (March 26, 2008) -- Jay Pennington, Managing Director of Extraodinario Brands, brand owner and importers of Tradicion Azul Tequila, announced that Tradicion Azul will join forces with Nitro Funny Car racer Bob Gilbertson starting at this weekend's O'Reilly Auto Parts NHRA Spring Nationals in Houston, Tex.
 
This is an exciting venture for us into the sport of professional drag racing," Pennington said.  "We formed Extraodinairo Brands with the vision to provide the finest quality Tequila products to the Tequila aficionado and what better way to get the word out there about our new product than to be involved with a Nitro Funny Car.  These cars run on high-octane nitromethane and Tradicion Azul, being 109 proof, is the high-octane Tequila that's perfect for fans of the fastest racing in the world."
 
Gilbertson is equally excited about this partnership.
 
"To have a company like Tradicion Azul Tequila come on board is a perfect match for this team," Gilbertson added.  "Tradicion Azul is looking to get their brand known by the hip 20s something generation and what better way to get to them than drag racing.  With Tradicion Azul's support we now have the resources to compete at the level it takes to be successful and the whole team is looking forward to getting back on track.  Our team, with the help of our Manager of Business Development, Susan Teddy, will make sure that they enjoy their first time at a NHRA national event."  
 
Tradicion Azul Tequila is made from 100% pure, estate grown blue Agave from the highlands of Los Altos in Jalisco, Mexico and at 109 proof is one of the highest quality extra premium Tequilas on the market. It's made for mixing into popular Tequila drinks like Margaritas and Tequila Sunrises and a little goes a long way.  Their slogan is: "Tradicion Azul Tequila makes the hottest frozen drinks on the planet."
 
For more information on Tradicion Azul Tequila go to:  www.tradicionazul.com

 

 

 

Gilbertson to join NHRA tour at Houston

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Funny Car racer Bob Gilbertson announced that he's filed an entry for the O'Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals in Houston March 28-30 and will drive his new Trick Tank Monte Carlo to do battle with the best drivers out there for his first NHRA start of the year.

Gilbertson, who has been testing recently to prepare for his 2008 debut, is anxiously waiting to get back on track.

"Testing is one thing but racing against somebody else is why I do this," Gilbertson said. "It's no secret that we don't yet have a marketing partner to help us pay the bills and we're actively looking for support, but if you're not out there to show what you can do it's tough to get anybody to notice you."

"I love racing at Houston Raceway Park as I won my first NHRA national event there in 2000 driving a Trick Tank car. To do well there this year would be a great start to our season. I would have loved to have kicked off the season at Gainesville this weekend but we're not quite ready just yet. We're going to test one more time and with the parts arsenal we've accumulated over the winter we should be in good shape to race competitively in Houston."

Gilbertson is also welcoming back his former crew chief Nicky Boninfante Jr. Boninfante spent the 2007 season tuning Bruce Litton's Top Fuel dragster to the IHRA Championship and he's returning to Trick Tank Racing to help get Gilbertson another NHRA victory.

"Having Nicky back is just what this team needed," Gilbertson added. "Most of the crew from last year is still here and with the addition of another returning crew member we've got a real experienced team ready to go at our first race of the year and with what we've learned during testing, and the confidence I have in Nicky, I'm optimistically confident that we'll be able to make some noise in Houston."

 

 

 

SPEC MUSTANGS COME HOME TO JIM CLICK RACING

Jim Click racing takes delivery of two FR500S Mustangs for new race series in ‘08

March 6, 2008 (Chandler, AZ) – Mike McGovern, Chief Instructor at the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving will race in one of the two new Ford Mustangs delivered to Jim Click Racing. The spec cars are slated for a new race series; the 2008 Ford Racing Mustang Challenge for the Miller Cup. Jim Click (Bondurant graduate and McGovern’s teammate) and Mike McGovern will race in the stock Mustangs on tracks across the country beginning May 1, 2008 in Atlanta.

Jim Click, owner of Jim Click Racing and Jim Click Automotive Team, purchased the vehicles for the series in red and blue paint schemes. Click and McGovern will race in the first event of the eight-race series May 1, 2008, at Road Atlanta. “Jim and I will race against one another in this series” said McGovern. Click has been a student at the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving where McGovern is the chief instructor.

Click and McGovern currently race in the Koni Challenge Grand Am series in a multi-matic Mustang. The multi-matic is a race specific car and different from the new FR500S. The multi-matic boasts output of 425hp.

 

 

NOPI Motorsports Contingency

Up To 250K A Year And Growing!!!



Vacation time is over, and the weather is starting to break in a lot of areas around the country. You know what that means don’t you. That’s right race fans; it’s time to hit the track for a new season of racing. Race teams all over the U.S. are preparing for an amazing year and, from the sounds of it, you will be excited to see some of these new racecars at NOPI Events across the nation.

So how does it feel to pay out $250,000 dollars to racers? Michael Meyers, President of NOPI Motorsports said, “Nothing feels better than giving back. I have been so excited about the new season. NOPI has gone through some great transformations that are going to be exciting for the racers and fans. It makes me happy when I think about the fantastic sponsors that have come on board to support NOPI Motorsports and their racers. These young teams deserve this attention. They deserve payouts like this and, from the sounds of it, $250,000 is just the start. We are having more sponsors call everyday.”

 

Special thanks goes out to our NOPI Motorsports Contingency Partners.


 

Rope Pumps - RoperPumps.com

ACT - Advancedclutch.com

Spec Clutch & Flywheels - Specclutch.com

Autometer - Autometer.com

Clutchmasters - Clutchmasters.com

Exedy - ExedyUSA.com

SC Tuned - SCtuned.com

US Marines - Marines.com

Powertrain Control Solutions - powertraincontrolsolutions.com

 

 

Boyd Coddington Hot Rod Icon, Automotive Innovator and Star of TV's American Hot Rod Dies at 63
Boyd Coddington was the man who made hot rodding and custom cars a household hobby
Anaheim, CA- February 27, 2008- Boyd Coddington, the creative visionary who took hot rodding to an art form and custom wheels to a new level dies at 63.  Coddington who was a long-time diabetic died from complications that were brought on from a recent surgery. It was Coddingtons' ever forward-looking view at the design and art of the hot rod and his unconditional desire to create the finest quality cars that became the "Boyd Look".

"It is a major loss for the automotive enthusiasts and hot rod aficionados around the world.  Boyd Coddington did so much more than create automotive trends, he also built the finest hot rods.  He was entertaining on his TV Show (TLC's- American Hot Rod) and an ambassador who educated.", said Harry Hibler, former publisher of Hot Rod Magazine.

Coddington who grew up in Idaho was a car enthusiast from a young age.  At age 12, young Boyd traded his prized shotgun for a Model A Ford, this began the legacy of the "Boyd Look".  Moving to Southern California to chase his dreams of chrome and customizing, he first worked as a shop machinist at Western Gear.  Then in the 1970's, Coddington found work as a maintenance repairman and machinist at Disneyland.  Coddington would recount fondly his experience at Disneyland and the companys desire for perfection, a trait that he instilled in everyone who worked at his hot rod shops.

Coddington's first major opportunity at developing the "Boyd Look" was when Vern Luce bankrolled a dream.  The "Vern Luce Coupe" was Boyd's vision of what could be done to create the ultimate 1933 Ford hot rod.  Boyd would refer to his look as getting rid of the bumps and allowing the lines of the car to show. Coddington removed door handles, hinges and massaged the body
dynamics in a way that no one every had ever realized.  To make the Vern Luce coupe even more dynamic was his trademark use of billet aluminum to create parts that were unique to ever hot rod.  The result of his first creation was the prestigious "Sloanaker Award", the first of many.

Over his thirty-year reign as the "King of Hot Rods", Coddington created dozens of hand-built hot rods and custom cars.  Coddington has amassed numerous awards and was the first builder to ever win the America's Most Beautiful Roadster (A.M.B.R.) award six times.  Collectively, Boyd created more respect for hot rods than ever thought possible, his hot rods have been in Museum exhibits and even the cover of Smithsonian Magazine.

Coddington's innovations have become not just hot rodding touchstones, but influences that have helped the entire aftermarket industry flourish.  Building cars that stand the test of time and have creative names such as CadZZilla, CheZoom, Aluma-Coupe, Smoothster, Boydster I and Boydster II set him apart from others.  His client list also included ZZ Top, The Beach Boys, Van Halen's- Michael Anthony, Brad Penny of the LA Dodgers, Budweiser, White Cap, Sobe, Old Milwaukee Beer, O'Reilly Auto Parts and Hershey.

Boyd Coddington was also an entrepreneur with a driven desire to build his company and see his goal become reality.  In the 1980's, Boyd literally re invented the wheel by creating the billet wheel for hot rods.  Coddington and long-time friend Lil' John Buttera found they could machine practically anything they needed from solid aluminum.  It was Coddington who took the idea and made it commercially viable.  In the 1990's, his hot rod shop and wheel company had grown and was so successful that he took the company public in an I.P.O. on NASDAQ.

Boyd Coddington was less known as a father of five boys and a man who had an infectious laugh.  To many he was the under-the-gun, deadline-stomping star of "American Hot Rod" a persona that led some to believe he was cantankerous.  Actually, Coddington was a humble and somewhat shy individual who loved kids and was a true philanthropist.  Coddington has continually employed those were mentally challenged and gave them a welcome environment to learn and work.  Through his "Coddington Foundation", Boyd and his wife Jo gave to the community and an array of charities.

Boyd Coddington was honored during his life as Hot Rod Magazine's "Man of the Year", he was inducted into numerous Hall's of Fame.  His hit TV show "American Hot Rod" brought world wide notoriety and corporations sought his talents.  The "Boyd Look" will live on and his spirit will forever remain the hot rodders inspiration.

Survived by his wife Jo Coddington and his five sons Boyd Coddington Jr, Christopher Coddington, Thomas McGee, Gregory Coddington and Robert McGee. The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Coddington Foundation to benefit a variety of Boyd's favorite charities.  Please address your donations to: Coddington Foundation, 811 E. Lambert Rd., La Habra, California, 90631

Services will be held on Wednesday March 5, 2008, 9 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 900 West La Habra blvd., La Habra, California, 90631, (562) 691-0533.  A reception will be held immediately following the service (Approximately 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.) at the Boyd Coddington Hot Rod's and Collectibles, 811 E. Lambert Rd., La Habra, California, 90631
 

 

 

 

Formula DRIFT Expands International


Long Beach, Calif. – February 26, 2008 – Formula DRIFT will expand international for the first time with (2) exhibition events to take place this year. The first event will be held in Singapore on April 27, 2008 at the Singapore Air Show Grounds and the second event will be held in Mexico at the Autodromo Monterrey, on August 23, 2008.

For the first time in the 5 year history of Formula DRIFT, the series will be holding an international exhibition and drift competition. The Singapore Air Show Grounds plays host to the milestone event and is presented by Binter & Co, as an exclusive alliance with Formula DRIFT Holdings, LLC to expand and build the sport of drifting out of North America. Formula DRIFT Singapore will see 37 Singaporean, Malaysian, Thai, Chinese, Indonesian drifters compete with 3 Formula DRIFT Pros for the Trophy and a drift exhibition with some of Formula DRIFT’s top talent. The ambassadors of Formula DRIFT will be drivers: Ryuji Miki, Daijiro Yoshihara, and Casper Canul. More information can be found at:
www.formuladrift.com.sg.

“Taking the Formula DRIFT brand internationally is a huge milestone. Our priority is to continue to build the Series here while growing the sport of drifting as a whole,” said Jim Liaw, president and co-founder of Formula DRIFT. “We are very careful in choosing our event partners and take careful consideration of the boundaries of our international affiliates such as Drift Australia, MSC, and Pro Drift.”

The second international event will be in conjunction with GDC/Drifting Mexico and will be held at Autodromo Monterrey on August 23, 2008. The original date of this event has been moved and this is the new confirmed date. More information on this event will be available soon.


ABOUT FORMULA DRIFT

Entering its fifth season, Formula DRIFT is recognized as the North American professional drifting championship series. Established on the streets of Japan, drifting has involved into a worldwide competitive sport that challenges each racer's driving ability and vehicle control. Formula DRIFT provides a forum for North American professionals to demonstrate their skills against the world's top drifters. As the first official series in North America, Formula DRIFT has taken competitive motorsports to the extreme attracting fans and car enthusiasts from all walks of life. For a race schedule and ticket information, visit:
www.formuladrift.com
.

About IMG

IMG is the world's premier Sports, Entertainment and Media Company. IMG is a diversified global business with two major business segments: IMG Sports & Entertainment, and IMG Media. IMG employs over 2,500 people in 30 countries. Forstmann Little & Co. purchased IMG in 2004.

IMG Sports & Entertainment includes: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, European football, rugby, cricket, motorsports, coaching, Olympic sports and action sports. In addition, IMG Academies are the world's largest and most advanced, state-of-the-art, multi-sport training and educational facility, delivering world-class sports training experiences to over 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult and professional athletes each year.

IMG Media, which includes our content production subsidiaries TWI, Darlow Smithson Productions (DSP) and Tiger Aspect Productions (TAP), is recognized as a global leader in the delivery of traditional and new media content and services, with Internet, broadband and mobile expertise, transforming how audiences access and interact with content.

IMG Media produces and distributes over 10,000 hours of sports, documentary, drama, comedy, entertainment, popular factual and children's content annually, over multiple platforms across 200 countries, including award-winning television and radio programming. It also represents the broadcast rights to many of the world's premier sporting events and has the world's biggest sports archive with more than 200,000 hours of footage.

More information about IMG is available at
www.imgworld.com.


Formula DRIFT Holdings, LLC | 200 Pine Avenue, Suite 615 | Long Beach, CA 90802

 

Team Trick Tank scores big in Greensboro

All Four riders lock up spots for US Open in Las Vegas in October

To quote Team Trick Tank owner Bob Gilbertson, Sunday's Live Nation Toyota Arenacross Eastern regional final at the Greensboro (N.C.) Coliseum Sunday was "Big." It was the last chance for the four "Js" - Jake Gilbertson, Justin Hopson, Josh Harris and Jim Chester - to lock up starting spots in their respective classes for the Live Nation Arenacross US Open in Las Vegas this October and the riders did what they had to do and will all compete at the most prestigious Arenacross race in the country.

Jake Gilbertson scored a pair of second place finishes in both 85cc and Super Mini that resulted in him qualifying in both classes for the US Open. Gilbertson finished second in the 85cc Eastern region points just one point out of first and he tied for fourth in Super Mini points.

Josh Harris rode to a first place finishes in both 125cc Intermediate and AX Lites and to a second in Collegeboy that guarantees him a starting spot in all three classes in Las Vegas. Harris also won the Eastern region points battle in all three classes.

The team's coach/mentor Jim Chester once again swept all three classes he entered and he hasn't been beat in the Over 25, over 30 and Over 35 and will race for an unprecedented three titles in Vegas. Chester also topped the points standings in all three senior classes.

Justin Hopson qualified for his second main event since turning Pro this year and finished a respectable 14th. Hopson also competed in the Expert class where he came away with a fourth that gave him enough points to be able to race in Las Vegas.

"To have everyone on the team qualiry for Vegas is an incredible feat and I'm really proud of each and every one of them," said the senior Gilbertson. "They've all worked hard and those long hours of practice and training really made the difference and we're going to continue training and practicing to be prepared for Vegas where they'll be going up against against the best riders in the country."

For more information on Team Trick Tank go to: www.jakegilbertson.com

 

Team Trick Tank Scores In Kentucky

Team Trick Tank riders Jake Gilbertson, Justin Hopson and Josh Harris competed in Pikeville, Kentucky this past weekend for round No. 5 of the Live Nation Toyota Arenacross series and came away with wins and solid podium finishes.

Missing from action was the team's coach/mentor Jim Chester who was working a motorcycle trade show but even though he didn't compete he still held on to his points lead in the three senior classes.

Jake Gilbertson finished third in both 85cc and Super Mini and is currently 3rd in the 85cc points and 4th in the Super Mini points battle.

Josh Harris had a great weekend with a 1st in College Boy, a 1st in AX Intermediate and a 2nd in AX Lites. Harris currently leads the points in both College Boy and AX Intermediate and is 2nd in AX Lites.

Hopson, who turned Pro this year, had a respectable showing in AX Lites with an 11th place Friday night after mechanical problems held him back and a 16th place finish after crashing during Saturday night's main event.

The team now heads to Greensboro, N.C. this weekend for the 6th and final round of the Eastern Region series to cap off the 2007-2008 indoor season and it looks like all Team Trick Tank riders will qualify for the US Open in Las Vegas in October.

For more information on Team Trick Tank go to: www.jakegilbertson.com

 

 

Team Trick Tank scores big in Virginia

The Trick Tank Motocross team headed into round No. four of the six-race Live Nation Toyota Arenacross series this past weekend in Hampton, Virginia with big expectations and when the dust cleared it was mission accomplished for the "4 Js" Jake Gilbertson, Justin Hopson, Josh Harris and Jim Chester.

The team's coach/mentor Jim Chester was the star of the show as once again he swept all three of the senior classes he entered winning Over 25; Over 30 and Over 35. Chester hasn't been beaten in these classes so far this year, winning 12 out of 12 main events in the series and leads the points standings by a wide margin. Chester's stellar performance so far this year has guaranteed his starting spots for the prestigious U.S. Open in October in Las Vegas, the first rider to clinch this year in the Eastern region.

Chester also entered the Lites class on both Friday and Saturday night, and racing against riders half his age, claimed finishes of 5th and 7th to cap off his weekend.

Justin Hopson qualified for his first main event since turning Pro this year and came away with a 12th in the big show Saturday night. He also competed in the Expert class on Sunday and came away with a 3rd and was 2nd in the very popular Extreme Jump Off to the delight of the capacity crowd.

Josh Harris continued his winning ways by winning both the 250cc and 450cc Lites classes where he leads the points in both divisions and also scored a second in the highly competitive College Boy class for a great weekend of racing.

Jake Gilbertson got a 7th in 85cc and 8th in Super Mini, not his best outing of the year, but the good news is that he moved up to 5th in the Super Mini points and into a solid 3rd in the 85cc standings.

The team has this weekend off before back-to-back events in Pikeville, Kentucky February 15-17 then in Greensboro, N.C. the following weekend, February 23-24 to finish off the Eastern region winter Arenacross series that will determine who gets invited to the U.S. Open.

For more information on Team Trick Tank go to: www.jakegilbertson.com

 

Formula DRIFT Tickets for the 2008 Championship Available Online


Long Beach, Calif. – February 4, 2008 – Formula DRIFT kicks off their 5th Championship season on April 12, 2008 for Round 1: Streets of Long Beach. Tickets for this event and the other rounds are available for purchase online.

The Formula DRIFT Championship presented by Circuit City begins with Round 1: Streets of Long Beach on April 12. Online ticket purchases for this event will guarantee you a reserved seat in the grandstands. Discounted pre-sale tickets are available through Ticketmaster and on the Formula DRIFT website at:
www.formuladrift.com.

“With pre-sale reserved tickets for Round 1: Streets of Long Beach, you will never lose your seat and can comfortably browse the paddock and vendor village and not miss out on any of the action,” said Jim Liaw, president and co-founder of Formula DRIFT. “Drifting season is upon us and we look forward to another exciting year of Formula DRIFT.”

Tickets for the rest of the Formula DRIFT Championship season are available for purchase online. For more information visit:
www.formuladrift.com
.

 

motorguru.com’s Justin Bell and Father Derek Bell to Race in the 2008 Rolex 24 Hours Of Daytona

 

2008 will be an extraordinary year for racecar champion Justin Bell as he competes in the Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series and embarks on the launch of the new automotive video website motorguru.com.

 

 

DELRAY BEACH, Florida (PRWEB) January 26, 2008 – motorguru.com’s Justin Bell, world champion driver and winner of the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, will team up this weekend with his father and 5-time Le Mans champion Derek Bell to race in the 46th Rolex 24 Hours Of Daytona – a race Derek has won three times previously.  The pair will pilot the No. 12 RVO Motorsports Pontiac Riley Daytona Prototype alongside team owner Roger Schramm and co-drivers Paul Dallenbach and Tonis Kasemets.  Justin and Derek have a history of competing together in endurance sports car racing in Europe and the U.S., including the 2003 Daytona 24 Hour in a GTS Corvette and driving a McLaren F1 in the 1995 24 Hours of Le Mans.

 

Justin’s childhood and professional career has always evolved around cars.  He has previously owned and operated racing, defensive driving and young driver training schools – including a stint training defensive driving techniques to the U.S. Secret Service.  But his skills extend far beyond the driver’s seat, having nurtured a career as an automotive television host for a variety of media outlets including BBC, MTV and Speed Channel.

 

Justin’s most ambitious project is about to take-off with the launch of motorguru.com, a video-centric automotive review website dedicated to bringing the latest vehicles, news and information to consumers exclusively in video format.  Justin has partnered with automotive industry veteran Mark Ramsey, formerly responsible for Mercedes-Benz’s exclusive AMG, SLR McLaren and Maybach products in the U.S., to develop motorguru to become the leading on-line portal for entertaining, informative, credible and engaging automotive videos and information.  motorguru users will expect regular and entertaining stories and reviews of all types of vehicles such as the MINI Cooper S whirling around a go-kart track (e.g. a ‘mini’ racetrack) to road and track driving in the best performance vehicles U.S., European and Asian brands have to offer.  Each story will be hosted by credible on-screen personalities such as motorguru’s lead host Justin Bell. 

 

motorguru will launch to the public in early 2008 and change the way consumers stay informed about automobiles. To see previews and register for updates about the upcoming launch, visit motorguru.com.

 

 

About motorguru.com:

 

Launching in early 2008, motorguru.com is an automotive video web platform that produces and distributes entertaining, informative and credible original automotive programming exclusively in video format.  Automotive enthusiasts will visit motorguru regularly to stay up to date and comment on the latest vehicles, automotive news and information, while everyday car buyers will depend on motorguru’s content and intuitive search and navigation tools to research, compare and discuss with other users the various choices of vehicles in the marketplace.

 

 

Hot Rod Legend Boyd Coddington Hospitalized
Coddington Recovering from Emergency Surgery
Anaheim, CA- January 25, 2008- Boyd Coddington was unable to attend the North American International Auto Show in Detroit to enjoy the sneak peak of his latest creation or any of the collector car auctions in Scottsdale, Arizona.  The legendary hot rod designer and fabricator who just completed a million-dollar, hand-built Delehaye inspired hot rod fell ill shortly after the holidays.

According to his wife Jo Coddington, Boyd was rushed to the hospital after a fall at his home.  Boyd Coddington, the multi-award winning designer, fabricator and alumni of the Hot Rod Hall of Fame, was admitted for observation and then released.  Several days later, Boyd complained of continued complications and was re-admitted to a hospital near his Southern California home.  There doctors made a diagnosis and he was rushed to surgrey.

"We are happy to report that Boyd is recovering and doing very well, he is expected to go home next week.  Boyd and I would like to thank all of the people who have sent their well wishes and support!", stated Jo Coddington.

Boyd Coddington is a Southern California automotive icon and star of TV's "American Hot Rod".  Coddington has designed and fabricated numerous show winning hot rods for rock stars, corporations and individuals.  Coddington vehicles have appeared in museums, hit TV shows and even the cover of The Smithsonian Magazine.

It is quite certain that with all of the idle time he is spending in the hospital, Boyd Coddington is dreaming up a way to hot rod his hospital bed.  Coddington customized medical equipment could be the next product from this innovative genius!

About Boyd Coddington and The Boyd Coddington Company
Boyd Coddington is an internationally recognized automotive designer, builder, fabricator and television star.  He is recognized as one of the winningest hot rod builders of all-time and has been included in many automotive Hall of Fames.  The Boyd Coddington Company is well-known for designing and constructing numerous show-quality, custom automobiles for celebrities such as Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top and Michael Anthony of Van Halen, Brad Penny of the LA Dodgers and Johnny Halladay "The Elvis of France".  The corporations that have sought Boyd Coddington include Budweiser, White Cap, Amsoil, Sobe, Old Milwaukee Beer, O'Reilly Auto Parts and Hershey.  With his name representing companies and products world wide, it is not uncommon for the Boyd Coddington name to be found in most automotive stores.  His trademark billet aluminum wheels, the product that launched an industry, are today manufactured in his Southern California factory.  Find more about Boyd Coddington by visiting www.boydcoddington.com


 

 

 

Team Trick Tank Scores Big In Baltimore
 
BALTIMORE, Md. -- Bob Gilbertson's Team Trick Tank Motocross team made a lot of noise this past weekend at the Live Nation Toyota Arenacross at the 1st. Mariner Arena in Baltimore, Md. 
 
This event was round No. three of six to determine the riders who will qualify for the prestigious U.S. Open of Arenacross in October in Las Vegas and Team Trick Tank scored some valuable points towards their goal of all four riders qualifying for the finals.
 
Leading the charge was the team's coach/mentor Jim "The Wrecker" Chester who won all three of the events he entered, Over 25, over 30 and over 35 for a clean sweep of the senior classes.  Chester is undefeated so far this year and leads the points chase by a wide margin and is almost guaranteed a spot in all three classes at the U.S. Open.
 
Chester also competed in the AX Lites class where his finished a respectable 10th against a field of riders half his age.
 
Team rider Jake Gilbertson entered two classes, Super Mini where a crash in the early stages put him out of contention but finished third in the 85cc class after starting on the back row but he manage to claw his way to the front in a spectacular riding job in front of a capacity crowd. 
 
Josh Harris rode to a second in the 250cc Intermediate class for his best finish of the weekend while Justin Hopson, who just turned Pro this year, had a lot of problems and failed to qualify for any main events.
 
Team owner Bob Gilbertson was happy with the teams performance. 
 
"Racing in the Live Nation series against the best riders in the sport is tough and I'm very proud of the effort the guys are putting out," Gilbertson said.  "We've got a few weekends off before the next event in Pikeville, Ken. on Feb. 1-3 and they'll all be practicing every free moment between now and then to prepare for the final three races on the schedule, I'm confident that we'll continue to improve every day and all four riders will qualify for the Vegas finals."
 
For more information on Team Trick Tank go to:  www.jakegilbertson.com

 

 

Gilbertson names Boninfante as crew chief for 2008
 
CHARLOTTE, N.C. --  Bob Gilbertson, owner/driver of the Autolite/Prestone nitro Funny Car, has announced that Nicky Boninfante Jr. will re-join the Terminator Motorsports team as crew chief for the 2008 season.
 
Boninfante was Gilbertson's crew chief from 2003 to 2006 before stepping aside in 2007 to concentrate on his family-owned business and cut back to a limited race schedule.  Boninfante spent last year working with Top Fuel driver Bruce Litton who he tuned to the 2007 IHRA championship.
 
Boninfante replaces Tommy Delago, who he shared crew chief duties with in 2006 then Delago took over the job solo for the 2007 season.
 
"This was a really tough decision for me to make," Gilbertson said.  "Tommy is a great guy, a talented crew chief and he tuned me to 4.70s at 325 and we posted some of the fastest early numbers at the NHRA races and I give him all the credit for that.  Tommy is full of ideas and some of the things we tried didn't work and in the process we went through a lot of parts.  Tommy needs to work with a team that's a lot better funded than we are, with Nicky returning we're going to go back to what worked for us two years ago and go from there."
 
For Boninfante the decision was also a hard one to make.
 
"Telling Bruce Litton that I was leaving was tough," Boninfante said.  "I love the guy like a brother and I'm proud to have been a part of him winning the championship last year but to tell the truth I like Funny Cars better than Dragsters.  With Gilby cutting back to a limited schedule this year the circumstances worked out for me and I look forward to once again teaming up with Bob and his guys, most of whom I've worked with in the past, it will be like old home week."   
 
Delago understands that this is a competitive business and he's Okay with the change.
 
"Nicky is the guy who brought me to Bob's team and I have to thank both him and Gilby for the opportunity," said Delago.  "I learned a lot the two years I was there and I know that Bob wants to go in a different direction and I wish both him and Nicky the best.  There's a few opportunities out there for me and I'm sure that I'll land on my feet."

 

 

Gilbertson dominates IHRA World Finals at Rockingham

One thing that has eluded Bob Gilbertson in his 30 plus years of racing Funny Cars has been a victory at his home track, Rockingham Dragway, which is just 80 miles from his Charlotte, N.C. home base.

That all changed this past weekend at the season-ending IHRA World Finals as Gilbertson and his Trick Tank team, lead by crew chief Tommy Delago, won the Funny Car title in dominating fashion literally overpowering the field to give him his third career IHRA win.

Gilbertson has had a tough IHRA season so far in 2007 but finished the year on a high note by qualifying No. 1, setting Low ET and Top Speed and posted the quickest elapsed time in every round of racing. Gilbertson took out two-time series champion Dale Creasy Jr. in the first round and Mitch King in the semi-finals then recorded the quickest elapsed time for the class (4.877 seconds at 314.53 mph) to beat journeyman driver Cory Lee in the finals.

"Winning at Rockingham is something I've always wanted to do," Gilbertson said. "I had my family, friends and a lot of my employees there to cheer me on and to win in front of all of them was really cool. I've set track records and qualified No. 1 but this is the first time we ever won at The Rock and it means a lot to me and my team. I just wish that this was the first race of the season instead of the last."

"I've got to give a lot of credit to my crew chief Tommy Delago, he made the right decisions today," Gilbertson added. "He and the guys were perfect today, everything went as it should have, nothing fell off, we didn't catch on fire, it was big. If I was my own crew chief I'd be in the burn center right now because I'd go crazy with the tune-up but they gave me a car that I could win with and the driver did a pretty good job so I've got another Iron Man trophy to take home."

Gilbertson will spend a few days at home savoring his win before he leaves Thursday for an 11-day road trip for the last two races on the NHRA schedule at Las Vegas and Pomona, Calif. with a stop in-between at the SEMA/AAPEX Shows in Las Vegas where he'll be appearing at the Honeywell Consumer Products booth # 5700 on Wednesday, Oct. 31st from 10 AM - 12 PM.

Television coverage of the World Finals will be on SPEED TV on a date to be announced.

 

 

Subway 500 - Martinsville Speedway
Oct 21 - Subway 500 - Martinsville Speedway
Final Pts/Bonus
1. 
Subway 500 - Martinsville Speedway
Oct 21 - Subway 500 - Martinsville Speedway
Final Pts/Bonus
1.  Jimmie Johnson (48) 190/5
2.  Ryan Newman (12) 170/0
3.  Jeff Gordon (24) 175/10
4.  Kyle Busch (5) 165/5
5.  Matt Kenseth (17) 155/0
6.  Denny Hamlin (11) 150/0
7.  Greg Biffle (16) 146/0
8.  Juan Pablo Montoya (42) 147/5
9.  Clint Bowyer (07) 138/0
10.  Kevin Harvick (29) 134/0

 

 
 
 
UAW-Ford 500 - Talladega Superspeedway
Oct 7 - UAW-Ford 500 - Talladega Superspeedway
Final Pts/Bonus
1.  Jeff Gordon (24) 190/5
2.  Jimmie Johnson (48) 175/5
3.  Dave Blaney (22) 170/5
4.  Denny Hamlin (11) 170/10
5.  Ryan Newman (12) 160/5
6.  Casey Mears (25) 150/0
7.  Kurt Busch (2) 146/0
8.  Tony Stewart (20) 147/5
9.  Tony Raines (96) 143/5
10.  Reed Sorenson (41) 134/0

 

 

 

 

Gilbertson to re-join NHRA tour at Richmond

Richmond, prerace: After skipping a few races on the NHRA circuit due to financial concerns, nitro Funny Car racer Bob Gilbertson will compete at the last three races on the schedule starting at this weekend's Torco Racing Fuels NHRA Nationals at Virginia Motorsports Park.

Buoyed by the way his car has been running the past two weeks at events in Michigan and Maryland, Gilbertson is looking for good results from his Autolite/Prestone Dodge Stratus.

"We ran our best ever 60 foot and 330' numbers last weekend and if the track will hold it I'm sure we'll be able to make some noise at VMP," Gilbertson said. "It's been a long time since I've been to the track as I had to put a substitute driver (Frank Pedregon) in the car last year due to the race being rained out on the original date. I was scheduled to be at my son Jake's motocross race in Las Vegas on the rain out date that I couldn't miss so I'm looking forward to going to Richmond this year and maybe even becoming a spoiler in the Countdown points battle."

"Hopefully it won't rain again this weekend as I'm facing the same situtation as last year," Gilbertson added. "Jake and the rest of the Trick Tank motocross team will be racing in Vegas the following weekend and with the recent drought we're having in the southeast I don't think it will rain and even though we desperately need the rain I hope it holds off so we can get this race in as scheduled."

 

 
LifeLock 400 - Kansas Speedway
Sep 30 - LifeLock 400 - Kansas Speedway
Final Pts/Bonus
1.  Greg Biffle (16) 190/10
2.  Clint Bowyer (07) 170/0
3.  Jimmie Johnson (48) 170/5
4.  Casey Mears (25) 160/0
5.  Jeff Gordon (24) 160/5
6.  Kevin Harvick (29) 155/5
7.  Reed Sorenson (41) 146/0
8.  Elliott Sadler (19) 142/0
9.  Kasey Kahne (9) 138/0
10.  Dale Earnhardt Jr. (8) 134/0

 

Dodge Dealers 400 - Dover International Speedway
Sep 23 - Dodge Dealers 400 - Dover International Speedway
Final Pts/Bonus
1.  Carl Edwards (99) 190/5
2.  Greg Biffle (16) 175/5
3.  Dale Earnhardt Jr. (8) 165/0
4.  Mark Martin (01) 165/5
5.  Kyle Busch (5) 155/0
6.  Casey Mears (25) 150/0
7.  Jeff Burton (31) 146/0
8.  Jamie McMurray (26) 142/0
9.  Tony Stewart (20) 138/0
10.  Juan Pablo Montoya (42) 134/0

 

Gilbertson runner-up at Milan, hopes momentum continues at Maryland Int'l Raceway

Bob Gilbertson came out of the IHRA Motor City Nationals Sunday with a runner-up finish, top speed of the meet and a track record but he's not happy with himself as he lost in the final round due to a holeshot.

Gilbertson raced reigning champ Dale Creasy Jr. in the final round and even though he ran a quicker 4.962 elapsed time to Creasy's 4.977, with the holeshot advantage Creasy got the victory by only .049 of a second, a margin of only a few feet.

"I'm kicking myself in the butt right now, I know what happened. I had just heard about John Force's accident in Dallas and I just couldn't put that out of my head. I was cutting good lights all weekend and when it counted I just didn't react the way I should have, I didn't have a bad light, Creasy was just better off the line." Gilbertson said. "We had the quicker and faster car but the driver didn't do his job on the starting line and I've got nobody to blame but myself. I really feel bad for Tommy (Delago, crew chief) and the team, I feel like I let them down as they gave me a car that I could win with and I just plain screwed up, I'm not going to dwell on it, just go to the next race and we'll do the best we can."

"All I can say is that we'll go to the IHRA President's Cup Nationals this weekend in Maryland and race to win," Gilbertson added. "I really like the track as I ran my career best elapsed time there last year so I'm looking for good results this weekend and hopefully if all goes right a win."

 

Sylvania 300 - New Hampshire International Speedway
Sep 16 - Sylvania 300 - New Hampshire International Speedway
Unofficial Pts/Bonus
1.  Clint Bowyer (07) 0/0
2.  Jeff Gordon (24) 0/0
3.  Tony Stewart (20) 0/0
4.  Kyle Busch (5) 0/0
5.  Martin Truex Jr. (1) 0/0
6.  Jimmie Johnson (48) 0/0
7.  Matt Kenseth (17) 0/0
8.  Casey Mears (25) 0/0
9.  Ryan Newman (12) 0/0
10.  J.J. Yeley (18) 0/0

 

 

 

 

GILBERTSON WINS MATCH RACE AT CAROLINA DRAGWAY

Sets both ends of track record in the process

JACKSON, S.C. -- Bob Gilbertson had one of the best weekends of racing he's had this year Saturday night in a match race against Andy Kelly at Carolina Dragway.

Billed as a race to determine who had the quickest and fastest nitro Funny Car in the Carolina's, Gilbertson and his Trick Tank team prevailed over Kelly in the two run match race that was part of the IHRA's Thunder Jam series.

It was the first time in many years that nitro Funny Cars raced at the almost 50 year-old track and Gilbertson set the overall track record and became the quickest and fastest man to ever transverse the historic 1/8th mile track.

Gilbertson cranked out a 3.50 second elapsed time at 240.25 mph in the first round and bettered that in the final round with a 3.44 at 248.69 to the delight of the capacity crowd.

"This was probably the most fun I've had racing in a long time," Gilbertson said late Saturday night. "Match races are cool for not only me but the rest of the team as there's not a lot of pressure to qualify and we can just go out and burn some rubber. Another plus is that Tommy (Delago, crew chief) can do a little experimenting and try some ideas he has, luckily we didn't hurt anything, no parts fell off and other than a little body damage on the Trick Tank Monte Carlo when I hit a timing block in the final round we came out of there unscathed."

"I really have to give a lot of credit to Jeff Miles (track operator) his staff, the IHRA and especially the fans for a great night of racing," Gilbertson added. The place was a mob scene, the track was in perfect racing condition, we were treated like royalty and we all had a good time, if they ever want us to go back there we'll go in a New York minute. I've got to say I don't think that I've ever signed more autograph cards than I did Saturday night, I know I wore out a few Sharpies doing it."

Gilbertson and his team now head out to Milan, Mich. for the rescheduled IHRA Motor City Nationals this weekend.

 

 

Formula DRIFT - Round 6 “All or Nothing” Wall Speedway Results


Long Beach, Calif. – September 13, 2007 – Long Beach, Calif. – September 12, 2007 – The Formula DRIFT Championship presented by Circuit City entered Wall Speedway, New Jersey for Round 6 and the action continued as Daijiro Yoshihara in his Rockstar / Nitto Tires Nissan Silvia S15 slid past the other competitors for his 2nd win of the season.

Wall Speedway with it’s banked oval entry into a figure-8 course, is one of the most technical courses on the circuit and the event lived up to its moniker, “All or Nothing,” as the drivers pushed the limits and went all out for the win right before the season finale. The Semi-Finals matched up Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup Point Leader Tanner Foust with his AEM / Memphis Car Audio Nissan 350Z with his good friend and 4th Place contender, Rhys Millen and the Red Bull Pontiac Solstice, with Millen edging out Foust in a very exciting battle that was close enough for a, “One More Time” round from the judges. Top qualifier Tyler McQuarrie in his Hankook Tires / JIC Porsche GT2 went up against Daijiro Yoshihara and the Rockstar / Nitto Tires Silvia S15 with Yoshihara taking the win. The Finals became a battle of the energy drinks with Yoshihara taking his second victory of the season by defeating Millen and jumping up to the 2nd place overall in the Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup Point Standings.

The competition has never been closer with Foust leading the way with 500 points, Yoshihara in 2nd place with 477 points, and Chris Forsberg in his Maxxis Tires Nissan 350Z right behind with 476 points. Due to a random post race impound and inspection conducted by Formula DRIFT officials the RMR team and driver Rhys Millen was issued a 17 point deduction to their overall point total and remains in the 4th place position.

“With only 24 points separating the Top 3 drivers in the Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup Points standings the Formula DRIFT Championship presented by Circuit City will be decided at the Finals in Irwindale, CA on October 13.” said Jim Liaw, president and co-founder of Formula DRIFT.


Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup Current Point Standings after Round 6 – Wall Speedway

 
1. Foust
2. Yoshihara
3. Forsberg
4. Millen
5. Hubinette
6. McNamara
7. Gittin
8. Yamanaka
9. Sherman
10. McQuarrie
11. Canul
12. Haruguchi
13. Gushi
14. Hayashida
15. Miki
16. Petty
17. Tuerck
18. Nishida
18. Angelo
20. Cook

 
500 Points
477 Points
476 Points
418 Points
358.25 Points
329.25 Points
311.50 Points
310.25 Points
301.25 Points
278.50 Points
225.25 Points
216.50 Points
203.75 Points
185.50 Points
177.75 Points
173.25 Points
171.50 Points
165.25 Points
121.00 Points
118.75 Points

 

Full official standings available on: www.formuladrift.com
 

For more information contact:
John Pangilinan
The ID Agency
310.545.2309
john@theidagency.com



ABOUT FORMULA DRIFT

Entering its fourth season, Formula DRIFT is recognized as the North American professional drifting championship series. Established on the streets of Japan, drifting has involved into a worldwide competitive sport that challenges each racer's driving ability and vehicle control. Formula DRIFT provides a forum for North American professionals to demonstrate their skills against the world's top drifters. As the first official series in North America, Formula DRIFT has taken competitive motorsports to the extreme attracting fans and car enthusiasts from all walks of life. For a race schedule and ticket information, visit: www.formuladrift.com.

About IMG

IMG is the world's premier Sports, Entertainment and Media Company. IMG is a diversified global business with two major business segments: IMG Sports & Entertainment, and IMG Media. IMG employs over 2,500 people in 30 countries. Forstmann Little & Co. purchased IMG in 2004.

IMG Sports & Entertainment includes: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, European football, rugby, cricket, motorsports, coaching, Olympic sports and action sports. In addition, IMG Academies are the world's largest and most advanced, state-of-the-art, multi-sport training and educational facility, delivering world-class sports training experiences to over 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult and professional athletes each year.

IMG Media, which includes our content production subsidiaries TWI, Darlow Smithson Productions (DSP) and Tiger Aspect Productions (TAP), is recognized as a global leader in the delivery of traditional and new media content and services, with Internet, broadband and mobile expertise, transforming how audiences access and interact with content.

IMG Media produces and distributes over 10,000 hours of sports, documentary, drama, comedy, entertainment, popular factual and children's content annually, over multiple platforms across 200 countries, including award-winning television and radio programming. It also represents the broadcast rights to many of the world's premier sporting events and has the world's biggest sports archive with more than 200,000 hours of footage.

 

 
 
Chevy Rock & Roll 400 - Richmond International Raceway
Sep 8 - Chevy Rock & Roll 400 - Richmond International Raceway
Final Pts/Bonus
1.  Jimmie Johnson (48) 190/5
2.  Tony Stewart (20) 175/5
3.  David Ragan (6) 165/0
4.  Jeff Gordon (24) 170/10
5.  Johnny Sauter (70) 155/0
6.  Denny Hamlin (11) 155/5
7.  Kevin Harvick (29) 146/0
8.  Kasey Kahne (9) 142/0
9.  Kurt Busch (2) 138/0
10.  J.J. Yeley (18) 134/0
 
 
 
Jimmie Johnson  wins Sharp AQUOS 500 - California Speedway
Sep 2 - Sharp AQUOS 500 - California Speedway
  Pts/Bonus
1.  Jimmie Johnson (48) 0/0
2.  Carl Edwards (99) 0/0
3.  Kyle Busch (5) 0/0
4.  Jeff Burton (31) 0/0
5.  Dale Earnhardt Jr. (8) 0/0
6.  Martin Truex Jr. (1) 0/0
7.  Matt Kenseth (17) 0/0
8.  Brian Vickers (83) 0/0
9.  Kurt Busch (2) 0/0
10.  Kasey Kahne (9) 0/0

 

 

 

 

NITRO FUNNY CAR RACER BOB GILBERTSON RETURNS TO HIS MATCH-RACING ROOTS AT CAROLINA DRAGWAY SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 15TH

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- It's been quite a few years since Nitro Funny Car racer Bob Gilbertson has run a match-race but Gilbertson will face off against South Carolina's Andy Kelly in a two-round battle on Saturday night, September 15th at Carolina Dragway in Jackson, S.C. at the O'Reilly Auto Parts Thunder Jam.

Gilbertson, who cut his teeth in in the sport match racing all over the west coast where he started his career, is looking forward to making some laps at the track nicknamed "The House of Hook."

"Being that Carolina Dragway is just a few hours from our raceshop this is a home town race for us and the team and I are ready to show the fans what we've got in a no-holds barred match race," Gilbertson said. This will be fun and we're looking to setting the track record deep into the three second range at over 250 mph and give the fans their money's worth. Plus we'll be able to determine who's got the quickest and fastest Nitro Funny Car in the Carolinas."

Gilbertson will be racing his very popular "Jungle Jim" tribute car body that won the prestigious "Best Appearing" awards last year at both the IHRA Nationals in Epping, N.H. and the NHRA Nationals in Indy last year.

"Everywhere we run this Jungle body the fans go nuts and I'm happy to be able to bring back some memories for the older fans who remember him from the 70s."

Gilbertson might possibly also have a special guest in his pit for this race. Gilbertson's long-time friend Bret Michaels, who's currently starring in the Rock of Love show on MTV and lives in Charlotte, is going to try to show up if he can clear his schedule. Michaels will be looking for some cool drag race chicks for the next season of his hit show and hopefully he'll kick off the search at the Thunder Jam.

The Thunder Jam will also feature jet powered Dragsters and Funny cars and one of Gilbertson's favorite acts, Benny "Boom-Boom" Koske, the "Human Bomb." Koske, who places himself in a coffin loaded with dynamite and blows himself up, is a cult hero in the drag racing world and Gilbertson, who likes to blow up stuff himself, is a big fan of Koske.

"Our shop is right across the street from a giant fireworks store and we blow up stuff all the time but Benny's explosion beats out anything we've ever done," Gilbertson added. All of us are really looking forward to this race, having a good time and sending Andy Kelly home with his tail between his legs."

For more information go to: http://www.carolinadragway.com/

 

1 Carl Edwards (99) Ford 190/5 500 182 $297,050
 2 Kasey Kahne (9) Dodge 180/10 500 305 $265,541
 3 Clint Bowyer (07) Chevrolet 165/0 500 0 $180,125
 4 Tony Stewart (20) Chevrolet 160/0 500 0 $178,386
 5 Dale Earnhardt Jr. (8) Chevrolet 160/5 500 1 $164,008
 6 Kurt Busch (2) Dodge 155/5 500 2 $145,608
 7 Ryan Newman (12) Dodge 151/5 500 2 $139,775
 8 Bobby Labonte (43) Dodge 142/0 500 0 $144,238
 9 Kyle Busch (5) Chevrolet 143/5 500 3 $116,875
 10 Greg Biffle (16) Ford 134/0 500 0 $120,300  

 

 

 

 

Gilbertson looking to make some noise at Indy

 
Indianapolis, prerace:  Nitro Funny Car racer Bob Gilbertson is the first to admit that he's had a rough season so far this year in the NHRA POWERade series.  After a top five start heading into race three at Gainesville, then still in the Top 10 heading into race five in Las Vegas, Gilbertson elected to sit out several races due to the new truck market crashing (which Gilbertson's business is a major supplier) and other funding issues mid-season that hurt his chances of making the Championship race but he's hoping that he and his Autolite/Prestone Funny Car team can turn their season around this weekend at the biggest race of the year, the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals at O'Reilly Raceway Park.
 
Gilbertson knows that it's going to be tough to even qualify as there are 23 cars entered for the 16 qualifying spots but he's planning on racing on Monday.
 
"Everyone knows that if you want to make the show you have to run good during the Friday and Saturday night sessions and that's what we're going to concentrate on," Gilbertson said.  "Tommy (Delago, crew chief) has got this car running pretty good right now and even though we were rained-out last weekend and didn't get a chance to test we're pretty confident that we can claw our way into the field."
 
Gilbertson is also looking forward to becoming a spoiler in the Championship points battle.
 
"My buddy Ron Capps is out there battling for the Championship and if I could help him out by knocking out one of his competitors that would be cool," Gilbertson added.  "Being that we're an independent team if we could beat one of the "mega" teams and help Capps out in the process that would be big."
 
TELEVISION SCHEDULE:
 
Saturday, September 2, 2007  Qualifying  12:30 AM - 1:30 AM ET (ESPN2)
Saturday, September 2, 2007  Qualifying  2:00 PM - 5:30 PM ET (ESPN2)
Saturday, September 2, 2007  Qualifying  12:00 AM - 1:00 AM ET (ESPN2)
Sunday, September 3, 2007  Eliminations  12:00 PM - 3:00 PM ET (ESPN2)
Sunday, September 3, 2007  Eliminations  7:00 PM - 10:00 PM ET (ESPN2)

 

1.  Kurt Busch (2) 195/10
2.  Martin Truex Jr. (1) 170/0
3.  Jimmie Johnson (48) 170/5
4.  Matt Kenseth (17) 165/5
5.  Denny Hamlin (11) 155/0
6.  Dave Blaney (22) 150/0
7.  Carl Edwards (99) 146/0
8.  Brian Vickers (83) 147/5
9.  Bobby Labonte (43) 138/0
10.  Tony Stewart (20) 134/0

 

GILBERTSON HEADS TO MILAN DRAGWAY ON A MISSION

MILAN, Mich. -- When Nitro Funny Car racer Bob Gilbertson pulls into the gate at Milan Dragway next weekend for the Suzuki Motor City Nationals the rest of the Funny Car competitors better watch out as Gilbertson is obsessed with winning.

After a disappointing finish at last weekend's race in Epping, New Hampshire, Gilbertson and his Autolite Spark Plug/Prestone Antifreeze Dodge Stratus Funny Car crew will be swinging for the fences in Michigan. Gilbertson, who lost in the semi-final round at Epping, knows what he has to do in order to claw his way back up the IHRA points standings.

"I said last week that it's do or die for this team and I'll say it again, we've really got to qualify well and win the race to have any chance to finish up top in the points standings and the whole team knows what we have to do," Gilbertson said. "Smoking the tires in the semi's last weekend really hurt our chances in our quest for the championship but after all the bad luck deposits we've put in the bank lately I'm bringing a withdrawal slip with me to Milan. We still hold the track record at Milan, I've got a lot of great fans there and we're going to do whatever it takes to succeed.

Gilbertson also knows that reigning champion Dale Creasy has to be stopped in the first round this weekend for him or any of the other Funny Car competitors to be able to overtake him.

"We've got four more races to catch Creasy and if he has problems it's possible that it could come down to the wire and me and my team aren't giving up," Gilbertson added. "We've got a weekend off from racing and the team is going to go over every nut, bolt and square inch of the race car and we'll be ready to rumble in Michigan.

TELEVISION SCHEDULE:

Tape delayed coverage of the Suzuki Motor City Nationals will be televised on Saturday, December 8, 2007 on Speed TV from 5 to 6 PM ET.

 

 

Centurion Boats at The Glen

 1 Tony Stewart (20) Chevrolet 190/5 90 20 $239,286  
 2 Denny Hamlin (11) Chevrolet 170/0 90 0 $167,225  
 3 Jimmie Johnson (48) Chevrolet 165/0 90 0 $169,711  
 4 Ron Fellows (96) Chevrolet 160/0 90 0 $124,675  
 5 Robby Gordon (7) Ford 155/0 90 0 $96,025  
 6 Martin Truex Jr. (1) Chevrolet 150/0 90 0 $124,995  
 7 Kyle Busch (5) Chevrolet 146/0 90 0 $94,825  
 8 Carl Edwards (99) Ford 142/0 90 0 $86,000  
 9 Jeff Gordon (24) Chevrolet 148/10 90 51 $129,461  
 10 Greg Biffle (16) Ford 134/0 90 0 $92,950  

 

 

GILBERTSON HEADS TO EPPING TO DEFEND NITRO FUNNY CAR TITLE

Charlotte, N.C. -- It was one year ago at the 2006 Amalie Motor Oil North American Nationals at New England Dragway in Epping, New Hampshire that nitro Funny Car pilot Bob Gilbertson got one of the biggest wins of his 30 year career. Gilbertson was not only the number one qualifier but he also won the race and in the process set both ends of the IHRA World Record for the class at 4.786 seconds at 318.09 mph, a record that still stands today.

Gilbertson and his Terminator Motorsports team return to NED for this weekend's event and will be running the same "Jungle Jim" tribute car body that they blew the side off during the final round last year when the engine exploded at the finish line.

"I had Jungle riding with me last year in the final and he bought me some luck," Gilbertson said. "Since then we've had the body repaired and it's always been the most popular Funny Car body at any race we go to. Jungle has a lot of history at New England Dragway and the rabid New England fans remember him and his antics here in the 70s. I'm proud that I can keep his memory alive and hopefully he'll help me out again this year."

Gilbertson is also hungry as he needs a win this weekend to keep his points hope alive, with a good showing he has a chance at the 2007 title.

"It's make it or break it time for me and this team," Gilbertson added. "A win here will give us the points we need to stay in contention for the championship so we're going to pull out all the stops, if we can duplicate last year's performance and get the qualifying points, the record points and win the race we'll be in good shape to fight down to the wire for the title. We've got four more races after Epping and if we get on a roll we'll be there at the end."

TELEVISION SCHEDULE:

Tape delayed coverage of the North American Nationals will be televised on Saturday, November 3, 2007 on Speed TV from 5 to 6 PM.

 

 
 
Pennsylvania 500 - Pocono Raceway
Aug 5 - Pennsylvania 500 - Pocono Raceway
Final Pts/Bonus
1.  Kurt Busch (2) 195/10
2.  Dale Earnhardt Jr. (8) 175/5
3.  Denny Hamlin (11) 165/0
4.  Jeff Gordon (24) 160/0
5.  Jimmie Johnson (48) 155/0
6.  Tony Stewart (20) 150/0
7.  Ryan Newman (12) 151/5
8.  Clint Bowyer (07) 147/5
9.  Mark Martin (01) 138/0
10.  Casey Mears (25) 134/0

 

 

 

 

Formula DRIFT Mid-Season Report and Launch of New Online Shop


– Formula DRIFT launches new e-commerce website with official Formula DRIFT licensed apparel. The season is halfway complete and with only a few points separating the leaders of the Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup which is still up for grabs.

Formula DRIFT has launched their official e-commerce website. The site will allow consumers to purchase official Formula DRIFT licensed merchandise including t-shirts, hats, and other apparel. Products that were only available at track events are now available online. The online store will be updated frequently with all the latest Formula DRIFT gear and is located on the Home Page of the Formula DRIFT website at www.formuladrift.com.

“The season has been better than expected with an increase in attendance at every venue and extremely fierce competition. We are excited to see who comes out on top for the most competitive season yet,” said Jim Liaw, president and co-founder of Formula DRIFT.

With the Formula DRIFT Championship presented by Circuit City halfway complete, the battle for the Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup has intensified with less than 100 points separating the top 6 drivers. Every win counts for the remaining 3 events. Tanner Foust leads the way with 346 points followed by Dai Yoshihara and Chris Forsberg.

The Tires.com Triple Crown continues with the second of 3 events at Round 5 of the Formula DRIFT season at Infineon Raceway on August 11. Chris Forsberg leads the chase for the $10,000 bonus prize money with Dai Yoshihara and Tanner Foust right behind him. Last year’s winner Rhys Millen is currently in 6th Place.

The new Team Drift competition has been a success with the fans. Team Retaks and Super Ramen Allstars are currently tied for the lead with 24 points. Team Mazda, Drift Alliance, Drift Pro and Team Fast and Furious are right behind them in the points standings. The next and final event on November 30 at the Arizona Grand Prix will determine the Team Drift winner.

The Formula DRIFT season continues with the next event on August 11 at Infineon Raceway for Round 5 “Fastest in the Circuit”.

Full official standings available on: www.formuladrift.com.

 



ABOUT FORMULA DRIFT

Entering its fourth season, Formula DRIFT is recognized as the North American professional drifting championship series. Established on the streets of Japan, drifting has involved into a worldwide competitive sport that challenges each racer's driving ability and vehicle control. Formula DRIFT provides a forum for North American professionals to demonstrate their skills against the world's top drifters. As the first official series in North America, Formula DRIFT has taken competitive motorsports to the extreme attracting fans and car enthusiasts from all walks of life. For a race schedule and ticket information, visit: www.formuladrift.com.

About IMG

IMG is the world's premier Sports, Entertainment and Media Company. IMG is a diversified global business with two major business segments: IMG Sports & Entertainment, and IMG Media. IMG employs over 2,500 people in 30 countries. Forstmann Little & Co. purchased IMG in 2004.

IMG Sports & Entertainment includes: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, European football, rugby, cricket, motorsports, coaching, Olympic sports and action sports. In addition, IMG Academies are the world's largest and most advanced, state-of-the-art, multi-sport training and educational facility, delivering world-class sports training experiences to over 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult and professional athletes each year.

IMG Media, which includes our content production subsidiaries TWI, Darlow Smithson Productions (DSP) and Tiger Aspect Productions (TAP), is recognized as a global leader in the delivery of traditional and new media content and services, with Internet, broadband and mobile expertise, transforming how audiences access and interact with content.

IMG Media produces and distributes over 10,000 hours of sports, documentary, drama, comedy, entertainment, popular factual and children's content annually, over multiple platforms across 200 countries, including award-winning television and radio programming. It also represents the broadcast rights to many of the world's premier sporting events and has the world's biggest sports archive with more than 200,000 hours of footage.

More information about IMG is available at www.imgworld.com.


Formula DRIFT Holdings, LLC | 200 Pine Avenue, Suite 615 | Long Beach, CA 90802


 

 

 

GILBERTSON MISSES FRAM/AUTOLITE NATIONALS DUE TO PARTS BREAKAGE AND MECHANICAL GREMLINS

Sonoma, postrace: Bob Gilbertson and his Terminator Motorsports team experienced problems on every qualifying run they made with the Autolite/Prestone Funny Car at the Fram/Autolite NHRA Nationals in Sonoma and missed qualifying for Sunday's final eliminations.

"Parts breakage and stupid little mechanical problems cost us at Sonoma." Gilbertson said. "I've never experienced anything like this in my 20 plus years of racing one of these cars. To have something break on four consecutive runs is unheard of, I really wanted to do good at my sponsor's race but it just didn't happen."

Gilbertson's mechanical woes started with a clutch lever breaking on the first run, the fuel shut-off vibrated close on the second pass, the clutch cannon malfunctioned on the third run on Saturday morning and the blower drive broke when they tried to start the car for the fourth and last shot at qualifying.

"When stuff like this happens it's really frustrating and disappointing," added Gilbertson's crew chief Tom Delago. "We're going to go over this car with a fine tooth comb and be better prepared for the up-coming races."

 

 

Allstate 400 at the Brickyard

 

1 Tony Stewart (20) Chevrolet 195/10 160 65 $488,111  
 2 Juan Pablo Montoya (42) Dodge 170/0 160 0 $360,850  
 3 Jeff Gordon (24) Chevrolet 165/0 160 0 $324,411  
 4 Kyle Busch (5) Chevrolet 165/5 160 17 $271,075  
 5 Reed Sorenson (41) Dodge 160/5 160 16 $282,408  
 6 Mark Martin (01) Chevrolet 150/0 160 0 $223,075  
 7 Kevin Harvick (29) Chevrolet 151/5 160 18 $244,411  
 8 Jeff Burton (31) Chevrolet 142/0 160 0 $221,391  
 9 Dave Blaney (22) Toyota 138/0 160 0 $204,958  
 10 Matt Kenseth (17) Ford 134/0 160 0 $226,241  

 

 

Formula DRIFT - Round 4 “Drift, Slide, Collide” Evergreen Speedway Results


Long Beach, Calif. – July 17, 2007 – The Formula DRIFT Championship presented by Circuit City continued the season with a stop at Evergreen Speedway for Round 4. The Pacific Northwest event proved to be both action packed and entertaining with Daijiro Yoshihara gaining his 2nd career win.

“This is our second year here at Evergreen Speedway and it was another successful event with an increase in attendance and packed grandstands. We are excited to see the growth of Formula DRIFT in the Northwest.” said Jim Liaw, president and co-founder of Formula DRIFT.

Toyo Tires brought out UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, Quentin “Rampage” Jackson, to the event and he experienced his first drift ride along with the Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup Points Leader, Tanner Foust. A massive line formed for “Rampage” autographs and during opening ceremonies fans were treated to an up-close and personal interview with the Champ conducted by Formula DRIFT announcer J-Rod in the grandstands.

“Drift Slide Collide” was the headline of this event and it lived up to its name as many of the competitors pushed themselves to the limit which resulted in contact with barriers and other competitors in a very dramatic fashion.. Daijiro Yoshihara in his Rockstar/Nitto Tires Nissan S15 stayed clean and aggressive and took home the victory and jumped up to the 2nd spot overall in the Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup Standings. Coming in a close second was the Falken Tires Ford Mustang with a newly built Hasselgren motor driven by Vaughn Gittin, Jr. and in third place was the Hankook Tires/JIC Nissan S15 driven by Kenji Yamanaka. The battle for the Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup continues as only a few points separate the leaders from winning the Championship.

 

 

GILBERTSON NO. 1 QUALIFIER FOR THE SECOND RACE IN A ROW

Broken part ends his chances in semi-final round

Nitro Funny Car racer Bob Gilbertson went into eliminations Sunday at the IHRA MOPAR Canadian Nationals with high hopes and expectations but a two dollar part failed during the semi-final round ending his racing for the day.

After qualifying at the top of the field for the second consecutive race Gilbertson was excited about his chances on Sunday.

"Everyone in Canada is pretty cool," Gilbertson said after his pole winning run on Saturday night. "Live Nation and the IHRA do a great job putting these races on. I hope everyone who came out today comes back tomorrow. We're planning on putting on a great show. We're either going to blow it up, put it into the wall or put it in the winner's circle."

Gilbertson met and defeated Andy Kelly in the opening round but he was shut off on the starting line in the semi-final when a camshaft plug broke allowing oil to leak from the car. This allowed Gilbertson's opponent Mitch King to take the win with an off-pace 23.98 second elapsed time.

"Once again another parts failure cost us," Gilbertson added. "At the last race the wheelie bar broke and now the cam plug breaks, we had the car to beat at both of these Canadian races and we couldn't capitalize on it. All we can do is go on to the next race and try our best and hopefully win a few to climb our way back up in the points."

Gilbertson's team was also short two crew members as they were stopped at the border by Canadian officials who wouldn't allow them to enter the country because their rabies shots weren't up-to-date.

"Not having two key guys there put a big load on the rest of the team who worked their butts off and I'm proud of them," Gilbertson continued. "They all did their regular jobs then jumped in and did the rest of the work that had to be done. It was a team effort and I'm disappointed for them more than me."

 




Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup Current Point Standings after Round 4 – Evergreen Speedway

1. Foust
2. Yoshihara
3. Forsberg
4. Millen
5. Yamanaka
6. Hubinette
7. Gittin
8. McNamara
9. McQuarrie
10. Sherman
11. Hayashida
12. Tuerck
13. Canul
14. Haruguchi
15. Gushi
16. Petty
17. Aono
18. Nishida
18. Sumida
20. Miki

346 Points
316 Points
305 Points
277 Points
254 Points
235.25 Points
221.25 Points
209.25 Points
201.25 Points
188.25 Points
185 Points
171 Points
167 Points
160.25 Points
119.50 Points
118 Points
112.50 Points
110.25 Points
110.25 Points
58.75 Points

 



ABOUT FORMULA DRIFT

Entering its fourth season, Formula DRIFT is recognized as the North American professional drifting championship series. Established on the streets of Japan, drifting has involved into a worldwide competitive sport that challenges each racer's driving ability and vehicle control. Formula DRIFT provides a forum for North American professionals to demonstrate their skills against the world's top drifters. As the first official series in North America, Formula DRIFT has taken competitive motorsports to the extreme attracting fans and car enthusiasts from all walks of life. For a race schedule and ticket information, visit: www.formuladrift.com.

About IMG

IMG is the world's premier Sports, Entertainment and Media Company. IMG is a diversified global business with two major business segments: IMG Sports & Entertainment, and IMG Media. IMG employs over 2,500 people in 30 countries. Forstmann Little & Co. purchased IMG in 2004.

IMG Sports & Entertainment includes: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, European football, rugby, cricket, motorsports, coaching, Olympic sports and action sports. In addition, IMG Academies are the world's largest and most advanced, state-of-the-art, multi-sport training and educational facility, delivering world-class sports training experiences to over 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult and professional athletes each year.

IMG Media, which includes our content production subsidiaries TWI, Darlow Smithson Productions (DSP) and Tiger Aspect Productions (TAP), is recognized as a global leader in the delivery of traditional and new media content and services, with Internet, broadband and mobile expertise, transforming how audiences access and interact with content.

IMG Media produces and distributes over 10,000 hours of sports, documentary, drama, comedy, entertainment, popular factual and children's content annually, over multiple platforms across 200 countries, including award-winning television and radio programming. It also represents the broadcast rights to many of the world's premier sporting events and has the world's biggest sports archive with more than 200,000 hours of footage.

More information about IMG is available at www.imgworld.com.

 

GILBERTSON RETURNS TO NHRA TOUR AT SONOMA

Sonoma, prerace: After skipping the past four races on the NHRA tour due to funding issues, Funny Car racer Bob Gilbertson will return to competition this weekend at the FRAM/Autolite Nationals at Infinion Raceway.

Gilbertson, who's nitro Funny Car is sponsored by Autolite Spark Plugs and Prestone Antifreeze, is looking for good results at his sponsor's race.

"Like most of the other racers out there I really enjoy going to Infinion," Gilbertson said. "It's one of the nicest tracks on the circuit, it's nestled in the heart of wine country and the racing surface is second to none. We've had some luck there in the past and hopefully we'll be able to make the folks from Honeywell happy with our performance. Our car has been running good lately and with a little luck we should be able to go some rounds become a spoiler in the points chase."

Gilbertson's crew chief, Tommy Delago, is from northern California and wants to do well at his home track.

"I'd like nothing better than to run good at Infinion," Delago added. "My goal is to qualify well, go rounds and give Gilby a car he can win with. Infinion is a really good track and if you have your set-up right you can run big numbers there, I'm looking forward to the Friday night session."

TELEVISION SCHEDULE:

Saturday, July 28th Qualifying 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM ET (ESPN2)

Sunday, July 29th Eliminations 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM ET (ESPN2)

 

 

Tony Stewart wins USG Sheetrock 400

1 Tony Stewart (20) Chevrolet 195/10 267 108 $0  
 2 Matt Kenseth (17) Ford 175/5 267 1 $0  
 3 Carl Edwards (99) Ford 165/0 267 0 $0  
 4 Kevin Harvick (29) Chevrolet 165/5 267 54 $0  
 5 Casey Mears (25) Chevrolet 160/5 267 5 $0  
 6 Kurt Busch (2) Dodge 155/5 267 2 $0  
 7 Jeff Burton (31) Chevrolet 146/0 267 0 $0  
 8 Ryan Newman (12) Dodge 142/0 267 0 $0  
 9 Jeff Gordon (24) Chevrolet 138/0 267 0 $0  
 10 Clint Bowyer (07) Chevrolet 139/5 267 1 $0  

 

 

 

GILBERTSON NEEDS WIN AT GRAND BEND TO KEEP POINTS HOPES ALIVE
 
When Bob Gilbertson pulls up to the starting line at this weekend's MOPAR Canadian Nationals at the Grand Bend Motorplex in Ontario in his Autolite/Prestone Dodge Stratus Nitro Funny Car he'll be thinking about just one thing, winning the race and climbing his way back up the IHRA Torco Race Fuels points standings.  
 
Gilbertson is coming off the recent Rocky Mountain Nationals where he was the low qualifier and re-set both ends of the track record but a broken wheelie bar ended his chances in the first round of competition.  His performance there gives him hope that he can still contend for the championship.  He's currently in fifth, a little less than 200 points out of first, a lot of ground to make up but not out of the realm of possibility with seven races remaining on the schedule.
 
"It's crunch time for me and this team," Gilbertson said.  "We all know what we've got to do, that's qualify well, grab all the bonus points we can, go rounds and hopefully win a few races.  We've got our work cut out for us and with guys like (Dale) Creasy, (Terry) Haddock, (Jack) Wyatt and a surprising Andy Kelly all in front of me in the standings we've got some tough competition and we have to perform and not make any mistakes."
 
Gilbertson's crew chief, Tommy Delago, knows what he has to do.
 
"I've got to make sure that Bob has a car he can qualify well and win races with," Delago added.  "After Edmonton I'm confident that we've got a handle on the tune-up and if we don't have any more stupid things happen like the wheelie bar breaking I'm sure that we can give the rest of the field a run for their money."
 
Qualifying for the Canadian Nationals is on Friday and Saturday, July 20-21 and final eliminations are on Sunday, July 22nd.
 
Television coverage will be on SPEED TV at a date and time to be announced.
 

 

 
 
Pepsi 400 - Daytona International Speedway
Jul 7 - Pepsi 400 - Daytona International Speedway
Final Pts/Bonus
1.  Jamie McMurray (26) 190/5
2.  Kyle Busch (5) 175/5
3.  Kurt Busch (2) 170/5
4.  Carl Edwards (99) 160/0
5.  Jeff Gordon (24) 160/5
6.  Greg Biffle (16) 150/0
7.  Clint Bowyer (07) 156/10
8.  Matt Kenseth (17) 142/0
9.  Kasey Kahne (9) 138/0
10.  Jimmie Johnson (48) 134/0

 

Lenox Industrial Tools 300 - New Hampshire International Speedway
Jul 1 - Lenox Industrial Tools 300 - New Hampshire International Speedway
Final Pts/Bonus
1.  Denny Hamlin (11) 190/5
2.  Jeff Gordon (24) 175/5
3.  Martin Truex Jr. (1) 170/5
4.  Dale Earnhardt Jr. (8) 170/10
5.  Jimmie Johnson (48) 160/5
6.  Jeff Green (66) 150/0
7.  Jeff Burton (31) 146/0
8.  Kevin Harvick (29) 142/0
9.  Matt Kenseth (17) 143/

Thirty years later Gilbertson returns to Edmonton's Castrol Raceway for the IHRA Rocky Mountain Nationals

Nitro Funny Car racer Bob Gilbertson is returning to a track that he last raced on 30 years ago, Castrol Raceway in Edmonton, Alberta Canada for this weekend's IHRA Rocky Mountain Nationals.

Gilbertson, who last raced his Alcohol Funny Car there in 1977, is really looking forward to going back to Northwest Canada where he competed many times during his career.

"It's going to be way cool to go back to Edmonton and see how the place has changed," Gilbertson said. "I ran there a lot during what I call the "golden years" of drag racing, the 70s and I've got many good memories from that track. Hopefully I can add another good memory this weekend by claiming the Funny Car victory."

Gilbertson, who's currently 6th in the Torco Race Fuels Funny Car points standings is cautiously optimistic going into the event based on his most recent performances and is looking to claw his way back up the points standings.

"Our car will run 4.80s on a hot track and depending on the weather conditions we should be able to hopefully capture the last man standing points and qualify well enough to gain points on the leaders," Gilbertson added. "Another cool thing about going to Canada is the fans up there are rabid about drag racing. They only get to see the nitro cars once a year and they're very enthusiastic which gets me and the team pumped up. To give them something to cheer for we'll be running our popular orange "Jungle Jim" tribute car body that won the best appearing car award last year and "Jungle" will return to Edmonton , a track he ran at many times in the 70s."

 

 

 

Toyota/Save Mart 350

1 Juan Pablo Montoya (42) Dodge 190/5 110 7 $310,600  
 2 Kevin Harvick (29) Chevrolet 170/0 110 0 $241,561  
 3 Jeff Burton (31) Chevrolet 165/0 110 0 $189,616  
 4 Clint Bowyer (07) Chevrolet 160/0 110 0 $129,725  
 5 Greg Biffle (16) Ford 155/0 110 0 $123,875  
 6 Tony Stewart (20) Chevrolet 155/5 110 6 $147,961  
 7 Jeff Gordon (24) Chevrolet 146/0 110 0 $136,986  
 8 Kyle Busch (5) Chevrolet 142/0 110 0 $105,350  
 9 Boris Said (160) Ford 138/0 110 0 $91,900  
 10 Denny Hamlin (11) Chevrolet 139/5 110 3 $105,875  

 

 

GILBERTSON LOOKING FOR BIG THINGS AT ENGLISHTOWN

Englishtown, prerace: Funny Car racer Bob Gilbertson is optimistically confident heading into this weekend's Pro Care Rx NHRA SuperNationals at New Jersey's famed Raceway Park and for good reasons.

Gilbertson qualified for the last race on the circuit (Chicago) where many drivers of the more highly funded teams didn't make the cut. Even though Gilbertson lost in the first round due to parts breakage he believes that he's got a car that's fast, can qualify well and hopefully go some rounds.

"Our performance in Chicago proved that we're going in the right direction," Gilbertson said. "We're making a lot of horsepower and since Englishtown is always known for great traction and good conditions, especially during the Friday night qualifying session, so we're looking for some big numbers."

Another reason Gilbertson loves going to Raceway Park is that it's one of the original "Super Tracks" that is steeped in tradition.

"Racing at the same track that most of my drag racing heroes like "Jungle Jim" Liberman, Don Garlits, the Blue Max and many, many more raced on is special to me. Plus the rabid Englishtown fans pack the place and it's really cool to be racing in front of huge crowds."

TELEVISION SCHEDULE:

Saturday, June 23, 2007 Qualifying 11:00 PM - 01:00 AM ET (ESPN2)

Sunday, June 24, 2007 Eliminations 10:00 PM - 01:00 AM ET (ESPN2)

 

 1 Carl Edwards (99) Ford 195/10 200 63 $177,850  
 2 Martin Truex Jr. (1) Chevrolet 175/5 200 54 $154,445  
 3 Tony Stewart (20) Chevrolet 170/5 200 2 $157,586  
 4 Casey Mears (25) Chevrolet 165/5 200 1 $113,325  
 5 Dale Earnhardt Jr. (8) Chevrolet 160/5 200 1 $128,558  
 6 Kyle Busch (5) Chevrolet 150/0 200 0 $111,650  
 7 Kevin Harvick (29) Chevrolet 146/0 200 0 $129,761  
 8 Jamie McMurray (26) Ford 142/0 200 0 $92,400  
 9 Jeff Gordon (24) Chevrolet 143/5 200 18 $124,986  
 10 Michael Waltrip (55) Toyota 139/5 199 1 $99,208  

 

 

 

 

BOB GILBERTSON'S "JUNGLE JIM" TRIBUTE CAR RETURNS TO NEW JERSEY FOR THE NHRA SUPER NATIONALS

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Bob Gilbertson, owner/driver of Terminator Motorsport's Autolite Spark Plugs/Prestone Antifreeze nitro Funny Car, announced that the very popular blue "Jungle Jim" tribute car that he debuted at the Englishtown race in 2003, will be on display at two different venues during the NHRA Super Nationals at Raceway Park June 21-24.

"This was the coolest car I've ever driven," Gilbertson said. "Since then we've run three other "JJ" bodies but this one is my favorite. With 2007 being the 30 anniversary of Jungle's death it was important to me that we honor a guy who I consider the greatest Funny Car owner/driver/personality the sport has ever seen. Englishtown was considered Jungle's home track and the rabid New Jersey fans remember his wild wheelstand in the final of the 1974 Summernationals and his only NHRA National event win there in 1975. We first ran this car at Englishtown four years ago to rave reviews and I was compelled to drag it out of mothballs so everyone could have another look at it."

The first appearance will be at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Monroe, N.J. on Thursday and Friday, June 21-22. The hotel is located right off of exit 8A of the N.J. Turnpike. A pair of tickets for both Friday and Saturday's qualifying sessions will be up for grabs both nights in the sports bar.

Then on Saturday and Sunday, June 23-24 you'll find the car at Yogi's All-American Grill & Sport Bar located inside the Radisson Hotel at Exit 12 of the New Jersey Turnpike in Carteret, N.J. The car will be the focus point of the "Racers Appreciation Party" that the hotel will be hosting Saturday night for racers and fans alike. Open to anyone and everyone you'll have the chance to meet many racing personalities and a chance win tickets to the finals on Sunday.

For more information go to: http://www.yogisallamerican.com/

 

Pocono 500

1 Jeff Gordon (24) Chevrolet 190/5 106 26 $238,286  
 2 Ryan Newman (12) Dodge 175/5 106 20 $190,375  
 3 Martin Truex Jr. (1) Chevrolet 170/5 106 1 $156,545  
 4 Casey Mears (25) Chevrolet 165/5 106 2 $131,800  
 5 Tony Stewart (20) Chevrolet 160/5 106 3 $146,736  
 6 Denny Hamlin (11) Chevrolet 160/10 106 49 $123,625  
 7 Mark Martin (01) Chevrolet 151/5 106 1 $112,483  
 8 Kyle Busch (5) Chevrolet 142/0 106 0 $93,225  
 9 Matt Kenseth (17) Ford 138/0 106 0 $123,916  
 10 Clint Bowyer (07) Chevrolet 134/0 106 0 $89,375

 

 

The Best Nostalgia Racing to Hit the Midwest!
 

Don’t Miss the 5th Annual Holley National Hot Rod Reunion presented by SoffSeal
Father’s Day Weekend, June 15-17 at National Trail Raceway, Columbus, Ohio

 
 
 

 
  tn_poster_jpg[1]
   
      More than 400 vintage-style race cars, everything from Top Fuel and Funny Car to Nostalgia Comp and Nostalgia Gas will light up the sky when the Holley NHRA National Hot Rod Reunion comes to National Trail Raceway for Father’s Day weekend—June 15-17. With more than 400 race cars registered, the Reunion, presented by SoffSeal, is expected to be the biggest event in the National Reunion’s history.
HRR Columbus1  
    tn_ChiTown_jpg  
 
 

   Besides the race cars, Race Director Steve Gibbs has gathered an impressive line up of Cacklefest cars. In 2006, there were more than 30 and the sight and sound of all those nitro-burning front-engined dragsters was incredible.
   As an added bonus for this year’s event, the first 1,000 spectators through the gate on Sunday will receive a free Hot Wheels by Mattel. Tickets available at the Gate. Friday and Saturday $20 each and Sunday, just $15.
Take Dad to the Drags!  Kids 15 and under are FREE with paid adult!

 
  HRR Columbus 2
 

For full event information go to
museum.nhra.com

 or call 909.622.2133

 
  HRR Columbus 4

 

 

GILBERTSON RE-JOINS NHRA TOUR IN JOLIET

Chicago, prerace: After skipping a few races on the NHRA tour due to financial concerns, Funny Car racer Bob Gilbertson will return to competition at this weekend's Torco Racing Fuels Route 66 NHRA Nationals.

Gilbertson is really looking forward to getting back to racing at the track where he's recorded career best elapsed times and speeds.

"Route 66 has always been good to me," Gilbertson said. "Traditionally Route 66 has been the quickest and fastest track that we run on all year and every Funny Car team out there will be swinging for the fences so we've got our work cut out for us. Just to qualify will be a major accomplishment and hopefully we'll be able to get in the show and race on Sunday."

Gilbertson's crew chief, Tommy Delago, is optimistically confident about the team's chances this weekend.

"We're making a lot of power but we've had some problems applying it to the track but I really think we've got a handle on the combination and there's no better track than Chicago to prove it," Delago added. "With any luck we'll be able to get down the track and make some noise at Route 66."

TELEVISION SCHEDULE:

Qualifying Saturday, June 9, 2007 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM ET (ESPN2)

Eliminations Sunday, June 10, 2007 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM ET (ESPN2)

 

Formula DRIFT - Round 3 “Takeover” Summit Point Raceway Results


Long Beach, Calif. – June 5, 2007 – Formula DRIFT took over Summit Point Raceway for Round 3 of the Formula DRIFT Championship presented by Circuit City with the 2004 & 2006 champion Samuel Hubinette taking top honors with his first victory of the season.

“Summit Point Raceway was a great venue with an amazing course that challenged the drivers. With entry speeds in the upper 80 mph range into a blind turn and tight fast turns, the drivers had to be aggressive and technical at the same time,” said Jim Liaw, president and co-founder of Formula DRIFT.

The crowds lined up despite the extremely hot weather to watch the first professional drifting competition to come to the area. This event saw the debut of Daijiro Yoshihara’s Rockstar/Nitto Tires Nissan Silvia S15 built by HKS and an exciting drift exhibition by Nobuteru “NOB” Taniguchi in his HKS Altezza.

The competition heated up for the “Takeover” as Samuel Hubinette and his NuFormz / Mopar Dodge Charger SRT8 took home the victory, with his high horsepower car helping him edge out the competition on the fast and technical track. The other “Fast and Furious: Tokyo Drift” stunt drivers came out on top with Tanner Foust and his AEM / Memphis Car Audio Nissan 350Z taking his third podium stand in a row and remains the Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup leader with his second place finish. After only having 1 qualifying run due to mechanical problems, Rhys Millen and his Redbull / RMR Pontiac Solstice GXP held on to third place for his first podium of the season.


Castrol SYNTEC Power Cup Current Point Standings after Round 3 "Takeover" - Summit Point Raceway

 
1. Foust
2. Forsberg
3. Millen
4. Yoshihara
5. Hayashida
6. Tuerck
6. Yamanaka
8. Hubinette
9. Haruguchi
10. McNamara
11. McQuarrie
12. Gittin
13. Sherman
14. Petty
15. Canul
16. Gushi
17. Miki
18. Angelo
18. Aono
20. Rutherford

 
277 Points
232 Points
219 Points
213 Points
185 Points
171 Points
171 Points
167.25 Points
160.25 Points
153.25 Points
138.25 Points
131.25 Points
121.25 Points
118 Points
110 Points
63.50 Points
58.50 Points
57.50 Points
57.50 Points
57.00 Points

 


 



ABOUT FORMULA DRIFT

Entering its fourth season, Formula DRIFT is recognized as the North American professional drifting championship series. Established on the streets of Japan, drifting has involved into a worldwide competitive sport that challenges each racer's driving ability and vehicle control. Formula DRIFT provides a forum for North American professionals to demonstrate their skills against the world's top drifters. As the first official series in North America, Formula DRIFT has taken competitive motorsports to the extreme attracting fans and car enthusiasts from all walks of life. For a race schedule and ticket information, visit: www.formuladrift.com.

About IMG

IMG is the world's premier Sports, Entertainment and Media Company. IMG is a diversified global business with two major business segments: IMG Sports & Entertainment, and IMG Media. IMG employs over 2,500 people in 30 countries. Forstmann Little & Co. purchased IMG in 2004.

IMG Sports & Entertainment includes: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, European football, rugby, cricket, motorsports, coaching, Olympic sports and action sports. In addition, IMG Academies are the world's largest and most advanced, state-of-the-art, multi-sport training and educational facility, delivering world-class sports training experiences to over 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult and professional athletes each year.

IMG Media, which includes our content production subsidiaries TWI, Darlow Smithson Productions (DSP) and Tiger Aspect Productions (TAP), is recognized as a global leader in the delivery of traditional and new media content and services, with Internet, broadband and mobile expertise, transforming how audiences access and interact with content.

IMG Media produces and distributes over 10,000 hours of sports, documentary, drama, comedy, entertainment, popular factual and children's content annually, over multiple platforms across 200 countries, including award-winning television and radio programming. It also represents the broadcast rights to many of the world's premier sporting events and has the world's biggest sports archive with more than 200,000 hours of footage.

More information about IMG is available at www.imgworld.com.


Formula DRIFT Holdings, LLC | 200 Pine Avenue, Suite 615 | Long Beach, CA 90802

 

 

1 Martin Truex Jr. (1) Chevrolet 195/10 400 216 $295,045  
 2 Ryan Newman (12) Dodge 175/5 400 135 $231,650  
 3 Carl Edwards (99) Ford 170/5 400 18 $190,100  
 4 Denny Hamlin (11) Chevrolet 160/0 400 0 $149,400  
 5 Matt Kenseth (17) Ford 155/0 400 0 $161,341  
 6 Greg Biffle (16) Ford 150/0 400 0 $119,850  
 7 Mark Martin (01) Chevrolet 146/0 400 0 $128,308  
 8 Clint Bowyer (07) Chevrolet 147/5 400 2 $106,275  
 9 Jeff Gordon (24) Chevrolet 138/0 400 0 $138,261  
 10 Robby Gordon (7) Ford 134/0 400 0 $97,675

 

 

Indy 500 Finish Grid

1   Dario Franchitti (27) Dallara Automobili/Honda 166   Running -
 2   Scott Dixon (9) Dallara Automobili/Honda 166   Running -
 3   Helio Castroneves (3) Dallara Automobili/Honda 166   Running -
 4   Sam Hornish Jr (6) Dallara Automobili/Honda 166   Running -
 5   Ryan Briscoe (12) Dallara Automobili/Honda 166   Running -
 6