Sports & Autos News

 

 

Automakers Unveil Significant World and North American Debuts at the Los Angeles Auto Show


 

LOS ANGELES - Sept. 29, 2009 - A cautiously optimistic automotive industry will kick off the North American auto show season by launching all-new vehicles and featuring ground-breaking technology at the Los Angeles Auto Show's press days Dec. 2-3. The show will open to the public Dec. 4-13.

Approximately 30 vehicles will make their World and North American debuts in Los Angeles. World debuts will be unveiled from manufacturers including Audi, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Mazda, Porsche, Toyota and others yet to be announced. As the first major North American auto show of the season, it will deliver a preview of how the recent changes in the industry, the environment and the economy will ultimately affect what consumers drive.

"This is a critical time for the auto industry and we are already seeing the manufacturers respond to the new challenges with some truly innovative products," said Andy Fuzesi, general manager, LA Auto Show. "It's exciting that the LA Auto Show will play host to manufacturers showcasing the future of the automobile."

This year's show will feature advances in green technology in nearly every car category from compact to luxury vehicles. Electric vehicles are a significant trend at this year's show with several manufacturers featuring dramatic, all-electric or plug-in concepts. Virtually every manufacturer will showcase its upcoming, fuel-efficient vehicle lineup including the latest advances in clean diesel, hybrid and other alternative-fueled vehicles. There will also be new small-car offerings with more fuel-efficient yet powerful traditional gas engines.

As a traditional feature of the show, sports cars and luxury vehicles will continue to have a strong presence in Los Angeles with debuts from Audi, Jaguar, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Rolls Royce and others.

It is expected that nearly all major manufacturers will be communicating positive company momentum and unveiling their road maps for growth in North America. Many automakers, including Ford, Chrysler and General Motors, will have a stronger presence in Los Angeles than the previous year. Both Ford and General Motors will be unveiling world debuts and GM President and CEO Fritz Henderson will be delivering a special keynote presentation on opening press day. Ford is increasing its exhibit presence and says auto shows are gaining in importance due to the increase in new product introductions.

The LA Auto Show has continued to grow in stature as an international auto show since it changed its dates to the fall three years ago. Since then, media attendance has more than tripled and the show has seen an increase in the significance of vehicle debuts unveiled. Also, with Los Angeles as the nation's largest car market, the show continues to be a leading harbinger of the nation's consumer trends.


 

About the Los Angeles Auto Show

Dec. 4-13 for the public.  This year, the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles (OICA), the world automobile trade association, has officially named the Los Angeles Auto Show as one of its sanctioned international exhibitions. For more information, please visit LAautoshow.com.

 

 

Race Ramps Portable Pit Stop Ramp and Rack Ramps Awarded 2008 SEMA Global Media Award.

 

Gladstone, Michigan - December 1, 2008 - Brute Industries, Inc., the manufacturers of Race Ramps, has announced that it was awarded SEMA Global Media Awards at the 2008 SEMA Show. The awards honored Race Ramps new Portable Pit Stop Ramp, and new Rack Ramps for their innovative design, ease of use, and solutions based functionality.

 

The SEMA Global Media Award is judged by international journalists from 25 countries. The voting panel reviewed over 2,000 new style and performance products that were introduced at this year’s show. From these, the journalists selected 10 products that would be of most interest to their publications’ readers and most likely succeed commercially in their respective countries.

 

“We are very honored that our latest product innovations have been so well received by journalists from around the world”, said Richard Heinz, President of Brute Industries. “We continually strive to develop new products that provide solutions to problems experienced by automotive enthusiasts, racers, and service providers. The Portable Pit Stop Ramp is an example of how our unique technology is used to provide an easy, safe and practical solution for accessing the underside of a vehicle. As well, Rack Ramps use our construction technique to form a product used to safely get low ground clearance vehicles onto a service platform or lift without damaging the front end. We are pleased that our solutions have impressed the international automotive journalist community, and we were chosen from 2,000 competitors to receive this award”.

 

 

ABOUT THE SEMA SHOW

 

Produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), the SEMA Show is the premier automotive accessories trade event in the world. The event serves the $36.7 billion automotive specialty-equipment industry, which allows drivers to personalize and enhance their vehicle’s appearance, performance, comfort, convenience, safety and fun. The SEMA Show is held annually at the Las Vegas Convention Center during the first week of November. Each year, more than 125,000 industry professionals from over 100 countries attend the SEMA Show.

 

ABOUT BRUTE INDUSTRIES, INC.

 

Brute Industries, Inc. is a manufacturer of patented products that provide solutions for the automotive, medical and aerospace industries. Products include service ramps, clearance facilitation ramps, display ramps, as well as automotive storage and transport devices. All products are manufactured with the companies’ patented super lightweight 100% solid block construction technology.  

 

 

 

11.28.2008 --(AWcom)-- If Alan Greenspan was shocked by the greed on an unregulated Wall Street, the nation will be quaked if Congress fails to aid the domestic auto industry. But, in case you have readers or listeners who do not think so, here are links to hard facts and opportunities to get involved:

Auto Jobs Matter

http://www.autojobsmatter.org.

Steve Still of Jackson-Dawson Communications asks that you visit the website where more information and other steps you can take to promote a positive outcome are proposed.

11.29.2008 --(AWcom)--  Industry-Government Update Corrections and Additions:

The Engine of Democracy

The correct web address is http://www.theengineofdemocracy.com/

Consumer Guide

Tom Appel sends this link to his revealing Consumer Guide comparison of fuel economy figures for 2009 models: http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/the-american-gas-guzzler-myth.htm/printable

 

 

2007 Big 5 Auto Sales

http://online.wsj.com/mdc/public/page/2_3022-autosales.html

How domestic new car sales rank in the U.S.


Why Auto Jobs Matter

http://www.cargroup.org/documents/FINALDetroitThreeContractionImpact_3__000.pdf

Center for Automotive Research Memorandum

The November 2008 Center for Automotive Research Memorandum: The Impact on the U.S. Economy of a Major Contraction of the Detroit Three Automakers. Key points of the study include:

bulletThe auto industry has one of the largest economic multipliers of any sector of the U.S. economy.
bulletThe auto industry is so large that its growth or contraction can be seen in changes in the U.S. Gross Domestic Product.
bulletIn many states, employment in automotive and automotive parts manufacturing ranks among the top three manufacturing industries.

The rapid termination of Detroit Three U.S. would result in the following consequences:

bulletLost jobs:
Nearly 3.0 million jobs lost in the U.S. economy for 2009
239,341 jobs lost at the Detroit Three
973,969 indirect/supplier jobs lost
1.7 million spin-off (expenditure-induced) jobs lost
 
bulletLost income:
U.S. personal income would be reduced by over $150.7 billion
A total of $398.2 billion in personal income would be lost over the course of three years
 
bulletLost taxes (local, state and federal)
A loss to the government of $60.1 billion in 2009
$54.3 billion in 2010
$42.0 billion in 2011
A total government tax loss of over $156.4 billion over three years.
 
bulletThe decline in Social Security Receipts, (what gets paid into Social Security as result of the auto industry), would drop by $21.1 billion in 2009, $19.3 billion in 2010 and $15.0 billion in 2011.

Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers

http://www.autoalliance.org/index.cfm?objectid=2EA700BD-1D09-317F-BBDB8EEE4177071A

Another industry overview comes courtesy of the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers. This association of 11 vehicle manufacturers includes BMW Group, Chrysler LLC, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Jaguar Land Rover, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz USA, Mitsubishi Motors, Porsche, Toyota and Volkswagen.

bulletAmerica's automobile industry is the engine that drives the economy.
bulletNo other single industry supports so much U.S. manufacturing or generates so much retail business and employment.
bulletOne out of every 10 U.S. jobs, or about 13 million, is auto-related.
America can't have a healthy economy without a healthy auto industry, because autos represent the country's largest manufacturing base.
bulletAlmost 4% of U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is auto-related.
Every auto plant job generates about 5 jobs among suppliers and the surrounding community (CAR); by comparison, a Wall Street job generates 2 additional jobs (Bloomberg).

International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers

http://www.oica.net/

And while some skeptics might say that the auto industry is really just a concern for the U.S. or other technologically advanced nations, consider the following:

bulletThe auto industry is the single greatest engine of economic growth in the world.
bulletThe global auto industry is a key sector of the economy for every major country in the world. The industry continues to grow, registering a 30 percent increase over the past decade (1995-2005).
bulletAutos create jobs, jobs, jobs.

# # #

Issuers of news releases and not Autowriters.com are solely responsible for the accuracy of the content.

 

Behind the Big Air Benefit Kicks Off X Games 14

Athlete and Artist Painted Skate Decks to be Unveiled at Benefit

Hosted by ESPN’s anchorwoman Dana Jacobson, the X Games benefit will
 provide music by the world famous KROQ, celebrities, and X Games 14
 competitors in BMX, Moto X, Skateboard and Rally Car Racing – most  notably
 the featured athletes will include V Foundation X Games spokesman Kenny
 Bartram (Moto  X). In addition, two-time Skateboard Vert and Vert Best
 Trick gold medalist Sandro Dias and two-time Winter X Games Skiing
 SuperPipe silver medalist Simon Dumont will also be in attendance. 

”The V Foundation supports a cause that is important to the ESPN
 family, and we are proud to partner with the STAPLES Center Foundation for a
 second year,” said Amy Lupo, senior director, Global X Event Marketing
 and Content. “There is no better way to kick off X Games 14 than with
 this great cause, and we truly appreciate the participation and support
 from the action sports community.”

The exclusive  second annual opening night bash will take place
 Wednesday, July 30 at 6 p.m atop the STAPLES Center celebrated City View
 Terrace, providing panoramic views of the ever-changing skyline of downtown
 Los Angeles. The benefit will feature the award-winning cuisine of Levy
 Restaurants. A silent auction filled with sports memorabilia and
 painted skateboard decks designed by a select number of renowned artists,
 celebrities and athletes will highlight the benefit event. There will be
 an exclusive VIP meet and greet with X Games 14 featured athletes and
 celebrity guests. Net profits will benefit two important charities, the
 STAPLES Center Foundation and The V Foundation for Cancer Research. To
 purchase tickets, visit www.staplescenterfoundation.com.

Happening in conjunction with the Behind the Big Air Benefit is the
 third annual “Don’t Ever Give Up!” Skatedeck Auction that will also raise
 funds for The V Foundation for Cancer Research. Athletes, artists and
 celebrities have painted their own designs on skate decks donated by
 Powell Skate One. These decks will be on display for bidding at the Behind
 the Big Air benefit, inside the VIP tent at X Games 14, and also on
 eBay at http://stores.ebay.com/ESPN-Auctions. The auction will feature
 boards painted by X Games athletes Ricky Carmichael, Sandro Dias, Ryan
 Sheckler, Ryan Nyquist, Ashley Fiolek, Chad Kagy and ESPN’s commentator
 and benefit host Dana Jacobson. Other artists include Glen Keane, Mark
 Richmond, Marco, Chris Pastras, Bo Bridges, Joe Barillaro, Drake
 McElroy, Nate Wesel, Bill Morrison, “The Bachelor” host Chris Harrison and
 Hart & Huntington’s Tattoo Orlando Shop. Bidding on eBay will begin at 6
 p.m. PT on Wednesday, July 30 and conclude on Saturday, August 9 at!
  6 p.m. PT.

 
Three boards in the “Don’t Ever Give Up!” Skatedeck auction. (l to r):
 Pro Skateboarder Ryan Sheckler, Walt Disney Lead Animator Glen Keane
 and ESPN Anchor Dana Jacobson


Presenting sponsor for the Behind the Big Air Benefit is American
 Express.

STAPLES Center Foundation
The Foundation has established a number of partnerships in the Los
 Angeles community to assist charities in raising funds and awareness for
 their organizations with a special emphasis on the low-income
 neighborhoods surrounding the arena. The Foundation has donated an excess of $7
 million in financial and in-kind support to many community-based
 organizations, helping to reach those in need.

About The V Foundation for Cancer Research
The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and
 the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State basketball coach and
 ESPN commentator. Since 1993, The Foundation has raised more than $70
 million to fund cancer research grants nationwide. It awards 100
 percent of all new direct cash donations and net proceeds of events directly
 to cancer research and related programs. The Foundation, which has
 received five consecutive top 4-star ratings from Charity Navigator, awards
 grants through a competitive awards process strictly supervised by a
 Scientific Review Committee. For more information on The V Foundation or
 to make a donation, please visit www.jimmyv.org.

About Team ESPN
Team ESPN encompasses ESPN’s multi-faceted corporate outreach programs
 including volunteerism, corporate giving and cause marketing, while
 utilizing its diverse media assets.  Through Team ESPN, ESPN, its
 employees, and its fans work together to make a difference in our world and the
 communities in which we live.  Team ESPN. . .Fans Helping Fans.

 

 

ESPN X Games 14 Skateboard Ticket Package
                              Now Available


Who: X Games fans can now purchase the Sunday Skate Ticket Package for
 this summer’s X Games 14 through STAPLES Center and The Home Depot
 Center box offices, all Ticketmaster outlets and Ticketmaster.com.

The package includes:
-Admission to X Fest, the ultimate action sports festival featuring
 sponsor & Industry booths, bmx and skate vert competitions, interactive
 parks, athlete appearances, demos and new-to-the-X Games bmx and
 skateboard SuperPark competitions. Bleacher seating at the Vert and SuperPark
 are limited and available on a first-come, first-serve basis for the
 three finals on this day: Skateboard Vert Ams at 11a.m., first-time event
 Skateboard SuperPark at 12:30 p.m. and Legends of Vert at 2:30 p.m.,
 which last year featured old school talent including Chris Miller,
 Christian Hosoi and Steve Caballero.
-"Best of X" dvd
-Limited-edition X Games 14 skatedeck

This package is a $79.99 retail value available to the public for $50
 while supplies last.

What: The X Games is the definitive annual action sports competition
 featuring more than 150 of the world’s best athletes competing in: BMX
 Freestyle, Moto X, Skateboard and Rally Car Racing. X Games Los
 Angeles-based venues include STAPLES Center, the new Event Deck at LA Live
 (downtown across from STAPLES Center) and The Home Depot Center in Carson,
 Calif.

Additional X Games tickets range in price from $10-$20 based on
 location and venue. For more detailed information on ticket prices, the times
 of venue operations and more, please log on to www.ticketmaster.com.
 For information on transportation, parking, athletes invited to
 participate and more please log on to www.expn.com.

When: ESPN X Games 14 will be held July 31 – August 3. 

Where: The Home Depot Center will host an increased number of X Games
 competitions, while other events will return to STAPLES Center as well
 as the new Event Deck at LA Live downtown across from STAPLES Center.

Twenty hours of live X Games programming on ESPN, ESPN2 and ABC – all
 showcased in high definition – will be aired July 31 – August 3, as well
 as on ESPN International, EXPN.com, ESPN Classic, ESPN360.com,
 SportsCenter and ESPN2’s X Center.

Visit www.espnmediazone.com for ESPN's latest releases, schedules and
 other news, plus photos, video and audio clips and more.
 

 

 

SKIING SUPERPIPE WOMEN’S FINAL
Results from Aspen/Snowmass on Friday, January 25, 2008

Name / Bib # / Hometown / Score

1. Sarah Burke / 542 / Whistler, BC, Canada / 92.00
2. Mirjam Jaeger / 549 / Zurich, Switzerland / 81.33
3. Jen Hudak / 548 / Park City, Utah / 78.33
4. Jess Cumming / 543 / Wilton, Ct. / 78.00
5. Virginie Faivre / 545 / Montreux, Switzerland / 77.66
6. Grete Eliassen / 544 / Salt Lake City, Utah / 74.00
7. Gina Gmeiner / 546 / Park City, Utah / 69.33
8. Stephanie Sirianni / 550 / Melbourne, Australia / 62.00
9. Em Lonsdale / 523 / Settle, Great Britain / 58.66
10. Roz Groenewoud / 547 / Calgary, AB, Canada / 54.66
11. Angeli VanLaanen / 551 / Bellingham, Wash. / 36.66
12. Kristi Leskinen / 553 / Uniontown, Pa. / 20.00


For Winter X Games media information, including press releases, logos
 and additional images from past events, log on to
 www.espneventmedia.com.

Winter X Games 12 will air live January 24 – 27 on ESPN and ABC.

ABOUT THE ESPN X GAMES FRANCHISE
ESPN, The Worldwide Leader in Action Sports, first developed its X
 Games franchise in 1995.  Part of ESPN Content Development, X Games, Winter
 X Games and All Access are just some of the original action sports
 programming currently shown on ESPN and ESPN2. The brand has also grown to
 include international X Games events, EXPN.com, X Games skateparks and
 various X Games-branded retail products.

Team ESPN will be hosting the second annual “Don’t Give Up” snowboard
 auction that will raise funds and awareness for The V Foundation for
 Cancer Research. Visit www.expn.com to place your bid.

 

 

 

Boyd Coddington Speeds Into The Performance Racing Industry Show
Hot Rodding Legend Will Host an Informative Bonneville Racing Seminar for Amsoil
Anaheim, CA- December 3 2007- The Performance Racing Industry (PRI)  tradeshow is where racing legends and the product manufacturers that make the go-fast products converge each year.  The largest racing products only trade event is held December 6-8, 2007 in Orlando, Florida. The stars of NASCAR, drag racing, Indy and, this year, the hot rodding legend Boyd Coddington and his wife Jo all attend.

The Coddington's will appear at the PRI show with their Amsoil sponsored Bonneville race car.  The Coddington built 1927 Ford Roadster is the first race car constructed by the Coddington shop.  Being the first race car ever built by Boyd didn't prevent Jo from getting behind the wheel.  Jo took the 1927 Ford directly to the salt flats where she piloted the car to 230 m.ph. at the 50th anniversary event.

Coddington, the multi-award winning designer, fabricator and alumni of the Hot Rod Hall of Fame will attend PRI and hold a technical seminar for AMSOIL. The seminar entitled; "Boyd Coddington Builds A Bonneville Hot Rod" will provide an in-depth look at the construction of this exciting race car build.  The seminar is open to all attendees and will feature plenty of photos with Boyd and Jo's personal narrative.  The seminar is Thursday, December 6, 2007 3:00-4:30 p.m. in meeting room S320 E&F of the Orlando Convention Center.

In addition to hosting the informative seminar, the Coddington's busy schedule at PRI will also include hosting the Amsoil dealer meeting on Thursday evening.  The AMSOIL/Coddington Bonneville racer will be on display throughout the show. Located in the main lobby of the convention center near registration it appears courtesy of AMSOIL products.

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 under a license to American Racing.  Find more about Boyd Coddington by visiting www.boydcoddington.com

For additional information, photos or to schedule an interview contact:
bonspeedMedia at 714.666.1999.
.
 
###
 
 
Coddington/Amsoil Race Car Tech Sheet

Builder & Designer: Boyd Coddington Garage/Boyd Coddington
Major Sponsor: AMSOIL
Co-Sponsors: SOBE, O'Reilly's, MagnaFlow, Simpson, & DuPont
Body: 1927 Ford Model T - Original Modified Steel Body
Build Date: August 2007
Engine: 2.1 Liter GM Ecotec / D-Stroked 22
Oil: AMSOIL 10W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil
Oil Filter: WIX Racing Filter
Engine Tuner: HMS Performance
Engine Management: Fast Electronics
Horsepower: 1100 +
Torque: 750 +
Top Speed: 230 + MPH
Spark Plugs: NGK Racing Plugs
Suspension: Custom Rocker Style Horizontal Inboard Shocks
Frame: Custom full tube frame
Tires Front: 600 x 16 - Blockley Racing
Tires Rear: 250 x 15 - Goodyear Front Runner "Land Speed" Tires
Wheels: Custom Steel Wheels w/Moon Disks
Weight: 3410 lbs
Air Filter: AMSOIL Custom EaAU Filter w/Nano Technology
Exhaust: MagnaFlow
Intercoolers: Custom Design - Boyd Coddington Garage
Turbo: Precision Turbo - GT 105 mm
Coolant: AMSOIL Antifreeze and Engine Coolant
Transmission: Liberty Gears w/5 Speed Air Shifter
Transmission Fluid: AMSOIL Synthetic Transmission Fluid
Rear End: Winters Quick Change Rear End
Gear Lube: AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® Lubricant 75W-90
Rear Brakes: Wilwood Racing
Safety Gear: Simpson Racing Products
Fuel: ERC Bonneville Spec Racing Fuel
Special Note: First Race Car Built by Boyd Coddington Garage

 

 

Jeremy Wins Bay State, Tim Third

Seeking to shake off the effects of too much turkey and gravy, Team 
Cyclocrossworld.com hit the races November 24, with Tim Johnson and 
Jeremy Powers racing the Bay State Cyclocross in Sterling, Mass and 
Lyne Bessette opening her World Cup campaign in Koksijde, Belgium. 
Jeremy notched his fifth UCI win of the year in Sterling with Tim 
taking third.

Jeremy and Tim were joined by Jesse Anthony (Jamis) in the early 
move, with the trio immediately opening an impressive gap. Each rider 
excelled at a different part of the fast, dry, and swoopy course but 
none could break free until the final lap. As he had on several 
occasions previously, Jeremy managed to ride the course¹s main run-up 
the last lap while Anthony was forced to dismount and run. The gap 
created was all Jeremy needed to cement another win.

“Everything was good. Tim, Jesse, and I made it off the front and 
each of us was taking our turn going off the course,“ said Jeremy of 
the way the race unfolded. “Jess tried to jump back on his bike and 
missed his seat one time. Tim fell on the run up and I went right 
into the bushes on some hairpin turn. Towards the end, Jesse put in a 
hard dig and going into the last lap and once he was done pulling I 
unleashed a good move and then rode the run up. It was a gamble but 
it paid off.“

“It was fun, just attacking each other through the first 45 minutes, 
really enjoying the racing,“ said Tim, who finished third. “We got 
serious in the last couple laps and Jeremy was riding awesome so it 
was good he won.“

Elsewhere, Lyne raced against the world¹s best elite women in 
Belgium. She managed to finish 12th, accruing four times as many UCI 
points than she would have racing in the U.S.

The entire team will head out to the final USGP races in Portland, 
Oregon, December 1-2. Tim currently sits second in the Elite Men¹s 
series overall, with Jeremy in third. Lyne rests in third in the 
Elite Women¹s standings.

Enjoy the weekend,

Team LEER


http://teamleer.com/news.html
 
MARTINI-CALLAWAY RACING WINS
FIA GT3 CHAMPIONSHIP

 

 

OLD LYME, CONN. (Nov. 2007) – After an incredible season that started with a podium finish at Silverstone, followed by three first and three second place finishes across Europe and ending with a hard-fought fourth place at Dubai, the three-car Martini-Callaway Z06.R Corvette race team has captured the 2007 FIA GT3 Team Championship. Drivers Luca Pirri and Jurgen von Gartzen were also named runners-up in the GT3 Driver’s Championship.

Built and campaigned by Callaway Competition GmbH in Leingarten, Germany, the Z06.R is a homologation special that proved to be a world-beater in FIA competition against exotics including Ascari (BMW V-8-power), Aston-Martin, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and Porsche. The three-car Martini-Callaway Corvette team achieved the victory with six fantastic drivers behind the wheel, including Pirri and von Gartzen, Uli Berberich-Martini, Klaus Ludwig, Jiri Skula and Martin Matzke.

“The Corvette is a very exciting platform, a true world-class sports car,” says Callaway Competition Director and Team Manager Ernst Woehr. “This was a hard-earned victory for the Callaway team, from the drivers and crew members to our engineering partners at the Callaway Connecticut facility. We took an impressive street car and transformed it into a world champion.”

The winning cars started life as stock Z06 Corvettes, and Callaway Competition, which has experience in FIA road racing at LeMans and other top European tracks, converted the 500hp sports cars into competition- legal racers. Woehr and his Callaway Competition partner Giovanni Ciccone were well-versed in the latest Corvette technology long before the Z06 Corvettes cars rolled into the Leingarten facility. Their partner company, Callaway Cars in Old Lyme Connecticut, performed engine, exhaust and air intake tests on a Z06 stateside. This provided the Callaway Competition baseline performance information that was applied to the racecars.

The first three Corvettes were stripped down and rebuilt as GT3 racing machines, followed shortly by several more for privateer efforts. There are currently 10 Callaway-built Z06.R racecars competing in the FIA GT3 Championship, the ADAC Masters and the Belcar series. Many of the technologies and performance modifications utilized in race program are also employed on Callaway’s line of Corvette-based street cars.

"The FIA Series Championship is particularly good for us as a road car manufacturer because we get to compete nose to nose with the brands that Callaway Cars sells against: Ferrari, Aston Martin, Lamborghini and Jaguar,” says company founder Reeves Callaway. “To beat them on the track, in such a competitive arena speaks volumes about us being the genuine article. Note that this series is ultra competitive all through the field -the first ten cars usually finish under a blanket. I wish the format were brought to the USA."

Callaway Cars has a long history of utilizing competition vehicles to develop new high-performance technology for the street. From the 254mph Sledgehammer to the LeMans-proven Callaway C7 and C12R , Callaway Cars and Callaway Competition have refined the art of high performance engineering. Currently celebrating its 30th year in business and 20th year of working with Corvette, the company currently offers four street cars in the U.S. and Europe, including the supercharged Callaway Corvette, and three models in the distinctive C16 line: Coupe, Cabrio, and Speedster.

Callaway Cars are built at Callaway facilities in California, Connecticut, and Germany and are available to purchase exclusively through Callaway Cars’ authorized dealer network. For additional information on Callaway Cars, its automobiles an

 

 

Research and Markets: Motor Vehicle Electrical and Electronic Equipment Manufacturing Industry in the U.S. and its Foreign Trade (1997-2009)

 
DUBLIN, Ireland---Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c75283) has announced the addition of Motor Vehicle Electrical and Electronic Equipment Manufacturing Industry in the U.S. and its Foreign Trade (1997-2009) to their offering

This industry report includes 154 pages of the latest market research information. In addition to the detailed explanations of the provided statistical data, there are 112 charts, 18 tables, and 2 maps to effectively illustrate the content. Use this report as an in-depth analysis of the industry, an industry reference guide, an aid for benchmarking and forecasting, and as a tool for uncovering new business opportunities. The report is considered the most comprehensive research in the market.

Our clients include Fortune 500 companies, domestic and global manufacturers, major retailers and wholesalers, professional trade associations, financial corporations, universities, governmental entities, start-ups and individuals.

This industry report packs 10 years of data from hundreds of reliable government and private statistical resources. The data have been compared and verified to assure the highest research quality. We frequently contacted these agencies and private companies to acquire the latest information, most of which is unavailable to the general public. It is estimated that to gather and organize the same information into an easy-to-read format in each report, an individual researcher would spend at least a years worth of effort. The challenge is, by the time this is accomplished, some data most likely becomes obsolete. Our business is dedicated to the research of U.S. industries and their associated foreign trades. We can meet that challenge easily as our databases are directly linked to these resources.

Want to find out the industrys supply, demand, capacity, market size, and import and export? What about the industrys products and materials? Need benchmark information on the industrys cost structure and profitability? Need data to analyze labor force and its productivity? Who are the major players in the industry? What are the latest trends? What about green manufacturing, sustainability and compliance?

To see additional categories of information, please refer to the Table of Content.

Content Outline:

Introduction

Industrys Income Statement

Industrys Balance Sheet

Capital Expenditure

Labor And Compensation

Establishments

Import

Export

Industry Players

Links

Appendix A - Sales & Marketing

Appendix B - Industry Structure

Appendix C - Foreign Trade And Us States Statistics

Appendix D - Industrys 4-Year Financial Statement

Appendix E - Report Methodology

MOTOR VEHICLE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

The industrys revenue for the year 2006 was approximately $22,310,000,000. The total import export value for the year 2006 was $15,203,311,000. There were 169 countries that conducted foreign trade with the U.S. in 2006, 1 more than year 2005. The top trading countries were: Mexico, $6,651,529,000 (43.75%); Canada, $2,368,975,000 (15.58%); Japan, $1,546,639,000 (10.17%); China, $746,668,000 (4.91%); and Honduras, $521,733,000 (3.43%). Their combined total represents approximately 78% of all imports and exports.

The total import value for the year 2006 was $11,007,852,000. This represents a 5.4% increase from year 2005. The U.S. had imported industry related merchandises from 105 countries in 2006. The top importing countries were: Mexico, $5,813,938,000 (52.82%); Japan, $1,432,535,000 (13.01%); China, $646,939,000 (5.88%); Taiwan, $421,355,000 (3.83%); and Philippines, $393,088,000 (3.57%). Their combined total represents approximately 79% of import from all countries.

The total export value for the year 2006 was $4,000,143,000. This represents a 4.4% increase from year 2005. The U.S. had exported industry related merchandises to 165 countries in 2006. The top exporting countries were: Canada, $2,088,885,000 (52.22%); Mexico, $816,643,000 (20.42%); Honduras, $135,256,000 (3.38%); Philippines, $85,147,000 (2.13%); and Germany, $78,196,000 (1.95%). Their combined total represents approximately 80% of export to all countries.

Adding the import and subtracting the export, the total U.S. consumption value of this industry for the year was $29,318,000,000.

SCOPE

336321 - Vehicular Lighting Equipment Manufacturing

336322 - Other Motor Vehicle Electrical and Electronic Equipment Manufacturing

SUMMARY

This industry report packs 10 years of data from hundreds of reliable government and private statistical resources. The data have been compared and verified to assure the highest research quality. The author frequently contacted these agencies and private companies to acquire the latest information, most of which is unavailable to the general public. It is estimated that to gather and organize the same information into an easy-to-read format in each report, an individual researcher would spend at least a years worth of effort. The challenge is, by the time this is accomplished, some data is most likely obsolete. Our business is dedicated to the research of U.S. industries and their associated foreign trades. We can meet that challenge easily as our databases are directly linked to these resources. For more information, please also refer to the Table of Contents.

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c75283

 

Golfsmith Opens Playground for Raleigh Golfers and Tennis Players

Nations Largest Specialty Golf Retailer Celebrates Opening of its Largest Store and its First Location in North Carolina with $25,000 in Giveaways and a Longest Drive Contest to Benefit The V Foundation

 
Click here to see downloadable versions The new 60,000 sq-ft Golfsmith Golf & Tennis store in Raleigh, NC features an interactive, indoor driving range complete with nine hitting bays that let golfers test the latest clubs and drivers. (Photo: Business Wire)

RALEIGH, N.C.---Fore! Golfsmith International Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: GOLF) is unveiling the largest addition to its 74-store chain: a 60,000-square foot playground for Raleigh-area golfers and tennis enthusiasts. The store features an interactive 9-bay, indoor driving range complete with state-of-the-art launch monitors as well as an indoor tennis court and dedicated racquet demo areas.

The new store, located in the previous Best Buy location at 6254 Glenwood Avenue in Raleigh, also includes a large putting green and Golfsmiths first-ever dedicated chipping and pitching area with a real sand bunker. The Golfsmith experience also features a huge selection of name-brand equipment including Adidas®, Callaway®, Cleveland®, Cobra®, Head/Penn®, Nike®, PING®, TaylorMade®, Wilson®, and many more. Additionally, golf lessons are offered in the store by Golfsmiths exclusive lesson partner, GolfTEC, the nations #1 golf instruction provider.

Our new store raises the bar on activity-based retail and gives our guests an entertaining and educational experience, said Jim Thompson, president and chief executive officer of Golfsmith. We are confident that golfers and tennis players will continue to appreciate the difference in Golfsmith's guest services, specialty retail offerings and activity-based stores that allow our guests the ability to try out the latest golf and tennis gear in a comfortable and fun environment.

Grand Opening Festivities

Golfsmith is celebrating the grand opening of the store by offering guests $25,000 worth of prizes including $25 cash cards, free rounds of golf, drivers, bags, balls, racquets and much more offered on Friday and Saturday of the official opening. Guests will also have a chance to register for a 30-minute private lesson with world-renowned golf teacher Hank Haney during a free clinic to be held at the Golfsmith store on December 1.

As part of the grand opening, Golfsmith also is hosting a longest drive competition in its indoor driving range on Friday, November 23rd from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Golfers of all ages and skill levels are eligible to participate. The contest is part of an effort that allows guests to donate to The V Foundation, a Triangle area-based organization dedicated to saving lives by helping find a cure for cancer.

The Raleigh store will feature the full complement of Golfsmiths interactive retail experience:

bulletNew Indoor Driving Range The indoor driving range provides extended ball flight that lets golfers test the latest golf club models. It includes nine hitting bays that incorporate the latest launch monitor technology and let golfers evaluate their swings on large monitors, two dedicated custom-fitting simulators and a chipping and pitching area that includes a real sand bunker.
bulletNew Indoor Tennis Court The indoor tennis court provides an opportunity for tennis enthusiasts to test the latest tennis equipment in a comfortable indoor setting. The store also includes two tennis demo areas, including a half-court and demo hitting wall.
bulletCertified PGA Instruction Golfsmiths partnership with GolfTEC lets customers take advantage of in-store PGA teaching professionals who provide coaching and advanced instruction using the same kind of biofeedback devices, video and swing analysis technology used by touring pros.
bulletCustom Fitting Technology Golfsmiths professional in-store staff helps golfers get the most enjoyment out of the game by providing complimentary precision club-fitting that matches golfers to the golf clubs that best fit their individual golf swings.
bulletGolf and Tennis Apparel Golfsmith features the most up-to-date styles in mens and womens golf and tennis apparel, and on and off the field. Catering to young and seasoned players alike, Golfsmith offers the latest in hi-tech fabrics and designs, as well as hard-to-find items.
bulletCustom Clubmaking The store will showcase Golfsmiths 40-year heritage in custom clubmaking, which allows golfers to completely customize their own set of clubs. The store features a custom-fit workshop with the latest golf club components from Snake Eyes®, Golfsmith®, Killer Bee®, Spalding®, Adams Golf® and Zebra®. Guests have access to in-store clubmaking classes that cover custom clubmaking, club re-gripping, and clubhead and shaft technology.

Now Serving Tennis

The Raleigh store will be under the Golfsmith Golf & Tennis brand, and will feature a full-service tennis department with a wide assortment of equipment, footwear and apparel. Since fall 2004, Golfsmith has increased the number of golf and tennis stores it operates, with the Raleigh store being the 57th. The tennis stores are complemented by Golfsmiths Center Court tennis catalog and Web site (tennis.golfsmith.com).

Golfsmith is aiming to be the first national tennis specialty retailer, said Thompson. We will offer the best brands at the best prices, all backed by the same expert service we are known for in golf.

Golfsmith gives guests three ways to shop for their golf and tennis equipment, accessories and apparel: more than 70 existing retail stores; its Internet store at www.golfsmith.com; and its assortment of catalogs. Through each channel, the company delivers an extensive product selection that features premier branded golf and tennis merchandise, as well as proprietary golf products, custom clubmaking and pre-owned clubs.

About Golfsmith

Golfsmith International Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: GOLF) is a 40-year-old specialty retailer of golf and tennis equipment, apparel and accessories. The company operates as an integrated multi-channel retailer, offering its guests the convenience of shopping in more than 70 stores across the United States, through its Internet site and from its assortment of catalogs. Golfsmith offers an extensive product selection that features premier branded merchandise, as well as its proprietary products, clubmaking components and pre-owned clubs.

Cautionary Language

Certain statements made in this news release are forward looking in nature and, accordingly, are subject to risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are only predictions based on our current expectations and projections about future events. Important factors could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, those discussed in our Form 10-Q, filed August 15, 2006 and November 7, 2006 and our Registration Statement on Form S-1, filed on June 15, 2006 under the caption "Risk Factors."

 

New Report Contains the Most Recent Data on the Motor Vehicle Gasoline Engine and Engine Parts Manufacturing Industry in the U.S

 
DUBLIN, Ireland--Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c75269) has announced the addition of Motor Vehicle Gasoline Engine and Engine Parts Manufacturing Industry in the U.S. and its Foreign Trade (1997-2009) to their offering.

This industry report includes 154 pages of the latest market research information. In addition to the detailed explanations of the provided statistical data, there are 112 charts, 18 tables, and 2 maps to effectively illustrate the content. Use this report as an in-depth analysis of the industry, an industry reference guide, an aid for benchmarking and forecasting, and as a tool for uncovering new business opportunities. The report is considered the most comprehensive research in the market.

Our clients include Fortune 500 companies, domestic and global manufacturers, major retailers and wholesalers, professional trade associations, financial corporations, universities, governmental entities, start-ups and individuals.

This industry report packs 10 years of data from hundreds of reliable government and private statistical resources. The data have been compared and verified to assure the highest research quality. We frequently contacted these agencies and private companies to acquire the latest information, most of which is unavailable to the general public. It is estimated that to gather and organize the same information into an easy-to-read format in each report, an individual researcher would spend at least a years worth of effort. The challenge is, by the time this is accomplished, some data most likely becomes obsolete. Our business is dedicated to the research of U.S. industries and their associated foreign trades. We can meet that challenge easily as our databases are directly linked to these resources.

Want to find out the industry's supply, demand, capacity, market size, and import and export? What about the industry's products and materials? Need benchmark information on the industry's cost structure and profitability? Need data to analyze labor force and its productivity? Who are the major players in the industry? What are the latest trends? What about green manufacturing, sustainability and compliance?

To see additional categories of information, please refer to the Table of Content.

Content Outline:

INTRODUCTION

INDUSTRY'S INCOME STATEMENT

INDUSTRY'S BALANCE SHEET

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE

LABOR AND COMPENSATION

ESTABLISHMENTS

IMPORT

EXPORT

INDUSTRY PLAYERS

LINKS

APPENDIX A - SALES & MARKETING

APPENDIX B - INDUSTRY STRUCTURE

APPENDIX C - FOREIGN TRADE AND US STATES STATISTICS

APPENDIX D - INDUSTRYS 4-YEAR FINANCIAL STATEMENT

APPENDIX E - REPORT METHODOLOGY

MOTOR VEHICLE GASOLINE ENGINE AND ENGINE PARTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

The industrys revenue for the year 2006 was approximately $35,170,000,000. The total import export value for the year 2006 was $17,597,854,000. There were 160 countries that conducted foreign trade with the U.S. in 2006, 7 more than year 2005. The top trading countries were: Canada, $8,079,464,000 (45.91%); Mexico, $4,392,333,000 (24.96%); Japan, $2,266,166,000 (12.88%); Germany, $959,752,000 (5.45%); and China, $269,679,000 (1.53%). Their combined total represents approximately 91% of all imports and exports.

The total import value for the year 2006 was $11,195,262,000. This represents a 10.1% decrease from year 2005. The U.S. had imported industry related merchandises from 86 countries in 2006. The top importing countries were: Canada, $3,667,388,000 (32.76%); Mexico, $3,515,097,000 (31.40%); Japan, $2,047,968,000 (18.29%); Germany, $897,270,000 (8.01%); and China, $219,757,000 (1.96%). Their combined total represents approximately 92% of import from all countries.

The total export value for the year 2006 was $6,251,432,000. This represents a 8.1% increase from year 2005. The U.S. had exported industry related merchandises to 155 countries in 2006. The top exporting countries were: Canada, $4,399,438,000 (70.37%); Mexico, $864,877,000 (13.83%); Japan, $154,758,000 (2.48%); Australia, $136,370,000 (2.18%); and Venezuela, $65,951,000 (1.05%). Their combined total represents approximately 90% of export to all countries.

Adding the import and subtracting the export, the total U.S. consumption value of this industry for the year was $40,114,000,000.

SCOPE

336311 - Carburetor, Piston, Piston Ring, and Valve Manufacturing

336312 - Gasoline Engine and Engine Parts Manufacturing

SUMMARY

This industry report packs 10 years of data from hundreds of reliable government and private statistical resources. The data have been compared and verified to assure the highest research quality. Supplier Relations US, LLC. frequently contacted these agencies and private companies to acquire the latest information, most of which is unavailable to the general public. It is estimated that to gather and organize the same information into an easy-to-read format in each report, an individual researcher would spend at least a years worth of effort. The challenge is, by the time this is accomplished, some data is most likely obsolete. Our business is dedicated to the research of U.S. industries and their associated foreign trades. We can meet that challenge easily as our databases are directly linked to these resources. For more information, please also refer to the Table of Contents.

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c75269

 

 

Orange County Auto Show Attendees Challenged to 'Survive' Earth-Shaking Sound in the Al & Ed's Autosound 15,000-Watt Xtreme Vehicle

With an Amplifier the Size of a Great Dane and 32 Speakers, Al & Ed's Autosound 'Breaks The Sound Barrier' At The Orange County Auto Show

ANAHEIM, Calif., -- With a reputation for demonstrating the "Xtreme" possibilities of automobile customization, Al & Ed's Autosound is "breaking the sound barrier" at the 2007 Orange County Auto Show with the one-of-a-kind, windshield-shaking, bone-rattling, teeth-chattering "15,000 Watt Audio Experience." The best "seats" in the house at the OC Auto Show will be in the Al & Ed's Autosound Auto Show Underground as attendees are invited to follow their ears and ride the 15,000-Watt Experience.

With an unprecedented 15,000-Watt Rockford Fosgate T15kW amplifier, one of only six in the world, twenty-four Rockford 6-1/2-inch component speakers and eight 15-inch subwoofers packed in to this 2006 Cadillac Escalade ESV, audiophile auto-show-goers will finally be able to "feel" the music. And for those brave enough to ride the Experience, Al & Ed's Autosound will be providing free "I Survived the 15,000 Watt Experience" t-shirts in commemoration of the event.

In addition to the 15,000-Watt Experience, Al & Ed's Autosound will showcase today's hottest cars, outfitted with must-see accessories and mobile electronics, demonstrating to show-goers the "Xtreme" possibilities of automobile personalization. The Al & Ed's Autosound booth in the Auto Show Underground will also feature, a rare pearl 2006 Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 Roadster, a completely restored 1957 BMW Isetta, the 2006 Mercedes SLR McLaren "supercar," the Chevy SSR Xtreme Tailgater, and more.

The show will be open to the public from October 4-7 at the Anaheim Convention Center and the Al & Ed's Autosound Auto Show Underground is located in the South Hall. For more information, visit http://www.al-eds.com/.

About Al & Ed's Autosound

Founded in 1954, Al & Ed's Autosound has grown to become the largest mobile electronics and communications specialist with more than 24 Southern California stores. As a recognized leader in the mobile electronics industry, Al & Ed's Autosound has been an instrumental partner in the pioneering of innovations such as FM radio for cars, cassette players for cars and the first car alarms, and is viewed within the mobile electronics industry as a barometer for the industry in Southern California. For more information, visit http://www.al-eds.com/.

Source: Al & Ed's Autosound

 

 

Imagine Sports Predicts 2007 NLDS Winners

 

First Round Winners Picked Using Leading Baseball Simulation Software

 

SAN FRANCISCO, CA--- October 03, 2007) -

Imagine Sports®, Inc., a leading sports simulation game developer, today announced first round predictions for Major League Baseball's National League Divisional Series. Employing their state-of-the-art Diamond Mind simulation engine, Imagine Sports ran each game of the NLDS 1,000 times to ensure the most accurate results possible.

In their predictions, The Cubs prevail in 621 games of the 1000 game series against the Diamondbacks. The Cub's offensive trio of Alfonso Soriano, Derrek Lee and Aramis Ramirez proved to be the difference maker by racking up an average run differential of 2.71 each game.

 

Likelihood of The Cubs Winning:
-- In 3 Games: 19.3%
-- In 4 Games: 24.9%
-- In 5 Games: 17.9%

OVERALL: 62.1%

Likelihood of The Diamondbacks Winning:
-- In 3 Games: 6.5%
-- In 4 Games: 14.1%
-- In 5 Games: 17.3%

OVERALL: 37.9%

In the closest of the four divisional series, the Rockies just squeeze by the Diamondbacks winning 528 of the 1000 in the series.

 

Likelihood of The Rockies Winning:
-- In 3 Games: 15.3%
-- In 4 Games: 20.0%
-- In 5 Games: 17.5%

OVERALL: 52.8%

Likelihood of The Phillies Winning:
-- In 3 Games: 8.1%
-- In 4 Games: 16.9%
-- In 5 Games: 22.2%

OVERALL: 47.2%

While Colorado registered nearly twice as many 3-0 sweeps as Philadelphia (153-81), the Phillies show a significant advantage if Cole Hamels is able to secure a win in game one and contain the hot bat of Matt Holiday who is expected to have a 14 hit series.

Stay tuned for daily AL and NL Division Series updates. For more detailed data on these predictions or to request day by day updates on the statistics, please contact Michael Parlapiano at Kohnke Communications.

About Diamond Mind

Diamond Mind utilizes an advanced, highly-accurate simulation engine that has been developed and refined over the course of 20 years by renowned baseball statistician, Tom Tippett. The engine is so advanced that it has been used by ESPN to conduct simulations throughout the MLB season.

Editor's Note: Projections and ratings for each player were updated based on their regular season performances, and while playoff rosters have not yet been finalized, Imagine Sports used their best judgment in selecting each team's starting rotations, batting orders, bullpen and bench roles. All lineup selections take into account players carrying an injury into the postseason, however Imagine Sports did not attempt to simulate the degree to which such an injury might hamper the player, except to the extent that it already was reflected in his regular season performance.

 

 

 

Shimano Introduces 2008 Coasting Bikes

Shimano Partners With Ten Manufacturers To Expand Casual Cycling Efforts

Click here to see downloadable versions Seven additional OEMs joined Trek Bikes in Shimano's 2008 Coasting line. (Photo: Business Wire)
Click here to see downloadable versions Seven additional OEMs joined Raleigh Bicycles USA in Shimano's 2008 Coasting line. (Photo: Business Wire)

IRVINE, Calif.--In efforts to expand the market for casual cycling, Shimano, the worlds leading manufacturer of bicycle components, today announced that seven additional bicycle manufacturers will produce bikes equipped with its Coasting components in 2008.

The 2008 Coasting line includes the following manufacturers:

Electra Bicycle Co.
Fuji Bikes
Giant Bicycle
Jamis Bicycles
K2 Bike

 

Phat Cycles
Raleigh Bicycles USA
Schwinn Bicycles
Sun Cycles
Trek Bikes

In 2003, Shimano teamed up with innovation and design firm IDEO to develop the ideal casual biking experience. In 2007, this new biking experience made its debut with Coasting bikes from three top bike manufacturers, Giant, Raleigh, and Trek.

Coastings initial success among new and returning riders attracted an additional seven manufacturers for 2008.

In the development of Coasting, Shimano and IDEO conducted research about consumers bike riding experiences. The goal was to understand what would motivate a non-cyclist to ride a bike. After interviewing and observing U.S. non-cyclists, Shimano and IDEO found that most consumers had fond memories of riding a bike as a child, and were interested in riding a bike in the same way today just for fun.

This has been a groundbreaking year for Shimano and the cycling industry were excited that were working together to motivate the world of non-cyclists to join the Coasting experience, said Dave Lawrence, Shimanos senior manager of product development and marketing. With the combined efforts and successes of the Coasting initiative so far, we anticipate that this expanded partnership will continue our goal of growing the industry.

Based on the extensive research, Shimanos designers created a bicycle component group that is simple, comfortable, affordable and easy to use. The Coasting group is geared specifically for the rider who wants to coast rather than climb. It features an automatically shifting 3-speed system designed for casual riding, and includes a computer that shifts gears as the rider increases or decreases the bikes speed. The component group also includes a coaster brake, which allows the rider to brake by pedaling backward rather than with a hand brake lever. The automatic shifting technology is hidden, and the experience is designed around the users needs.

For more information about Shimano Coasting, please visit www.coasting.com.

About Coasting

Coasting is a casual bike experience for the millions of Americans who remember riding a bike as a kid and want to relive that experience effortlessly. By using a human-centered approach to the design and determining the consumers needs, Shimano in partnership with 10 bicycle manufacturers developed the ideal bike that combines automatic shifting with a stylish, simple design and function for riders of any ability. Each bike features Shimanos Coasting components. The bikes are easy to ride, the technology is hidden, and the experience is designed around the casual users needs. Shimano is the leading manufacturer of bicycle components and fishing tackle equipment. Founded in 1921, Shimano is headquartered in Japan with 30 offices across 22 nations. www.coasting.com

 

Britain’s Paul Bonhomme wins Red Bull Air Race in San Diego

  

Paul Bonhomme (GBR/Team Matador) jumped back into the lead of the Red Bull Air Race World Series championship on Saturday with a scintillating victory in the penultimate race of the season in front of an enthusiastic crowd of 50,000 in San Diego , USA . Bonhomme pushed American Mike Mangold (Team Cobra) back to second in the standings after the local hero struggled and got knocked out in the quarter finals.

 

Bonhomme, who had led the championship for most of the season before Mangold leaped ahead of him last month in Budapest , celebrated his 43rd birthday in America ’s “finest city” with a thrilling victory in the final against Kirby Chambliss to collect six points and move to the top of the standings with 45 points.

 

Bonhomme clocked a time of 1:23.80. Kirby Chambliss (USA/Team Red Bull) finished 1.11 seconds behind in second place while Nigel Lamb (GBR/Team Breitling) was third. Mangold, who had also struggled in Friday’s qualifying and hit a pylon, got two points and now has 43 points with one race left in Perth , Australia on 4th November.

 

“I felt relaxed. It was the last race of the day and I went for it”, said Bonhomme.  “I was concentrating hard and looking at all the tactics that the other pilots have been using and it paid off”.

 

Even though it supposedly “never rains in Southern California”, a series of heavy showers in the hours before the race and powerful winds off the Pacific Ocean all day made the difficult course over the bay even more treacherous.

 

The southwestern port of San Diego, population 1.3 million, has, however, more than lived up to its reputation as America’s “finest city” (it is also the country’s eighth largest). Its breathtaking backdrop in front of the waterfront skyline and alongside U.S. Navy battleships in the bay has been one of the most spectacular this season.

 

The Red Bull Air Race pilots fly through a slalom course of inflated Air Gates just metres above the surface at speeds reaching 400 km/h (250 mph) and endure forces of up to 10G. Last year more than six million spectators attended the eight races of the championship.

 

 

Hi again everyone (please do not scroll down to look at the photos just yet),
 
Sorry for the two week gap since the last new column but I've been extremely busy. It's amazing how well I can function on virtually no sleep. However, I wanted to finish everything before I went out of state for a Ford Motor Company press event tomorrow. I accomplished my goal and am now ready to share what's been going on with you.
 
Tonight I made some MAJOR additions and changes to the content of the AutoMatters Web site (www.AutoMatters.net). For starters, you'll see that I've added something important to the subtitle, under AutoMatters at the top of each page. I've explained the significance of that addition in the third item of the Home Page (it's entitled "*NEW - Please READ THIS: Motorsports, Travel and more!!!").
 
Then, be sure to read about the exciting news in the fourth item of the Home Page (it's entitled "*NEW - Please read this, too: AutoMatters LIVE!"). Rather than spill all of the beans and tell you everything here in this email, I'd like you to quickly go to the Home Page and read it there, before you read this week's new column (see below for details about that). I'll give you a couple of hints, though: First, I'm now on the radio with a simulcast on the Internet. That means you can hear it from just about anywhere on earth! How's that for global reach? Second, I just covered boat races and I'm about to cover air races. You're going to love the photos, one of which is near the end of this email.
 
And now, as they used to say, back to our regularly scheduled programming:
 
---------------------------------
 
AutoMatters #248 is now online in the www.AutoMatters.net Column Archives.
 
Title: "Sharp Aquos 500: The 'Race to the Chase' Heats Up at California Speedway"
 
Direct Link: http://www.automatters.net/2007%20Columns/0248.htm
 
 
Preview With daytime temperatures approaching 120 degrees, the drivers and crews were not the only ones who would be facing a challenge or two at this NASCAR NEXTEL Cup race at California Speedway. I don't know if it was because of the heat or something else, but this was the most exciting NASCAR race I can remember seeing at this track. Wait until you see the pictures and you'll understand.
 
This column includes a lot of photos (what else is new?), so you'll need to give it some extra time to load.
 
Have I got your attention? To read more about this and to see more photos, go to the AutoMatters Web site link which you will find directly above this preview.
 
To see more AutoMatters columns, click on the "COLUMN ARCHIVES" button at www.AutoMatters.net, select a year and then click on the photo icons or titles.
 
Jan
 
--
 
Jan Wagner
AutoMatters automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer
bullet
Memberships: Motor Press Guild, American Auto Racing Writers' & Broadcasters' Association (AARWBA), Nikon Professional Services
bullet
In newspapers and online at www.AutoMatters.net
bullet
AARWBA first place awards for color photography in 50th. Anniversary journalism competition
San Diego, CA
 
-     -     -     -     -     -     -

Web site Technical Notes:

As mentioned above, you can go directly to this column by clicking on the above link (or, depending upon how your email is set up, you may have to cut and paste it into the address line of your browser). You may also access this and other AutoMatters columns by navigating to them in this year's Column Archives via the Home Page at www.AutoMatters.net.  A clickable, descriptive thumbnail photo is included with each title. They are grouped by year, and are complete except for 2002 and 2003.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Readers have asked me how to see other AutoMatters columns in the Column Archives if they followed a link directly to a particular column, thus bypassing the website's home page. It's easy. Just scroll back up to the top of the page and then click the "COLUMN ARCHIVES" button. Another way would be to click on www.AutoMatters.net which is in the last paragraph of every column.

If there are a lot of photos in a column, it may take a bit longer than usual to display on your computer. If one or two photos will not fully display, try clearing your Internet temp file and then do a View --> Refresh.

 

 

I am very pleased to announce coverage in AutoMatters of the upcoming San Diego stop of the RED BULL AIR RACE World Series event, which will take place Sept. 21 - 22 over the water, adjacent to downtown San Diego. This should be a fantastic event, never before held in San Diego. I am thrilled to be covering it for you.

Those of you who currently publish AutoMatters will receive a very special column after the event, complete with my award-winning photography. All others are invited to contact me as soon as possible to make arrangements to be sent yours.

I also expect to phone in a live report from the event site to my co-host Dave Stall on the "You-Auto-Know" radio show. That airs between 1 and 3 PM on KCEO San Diego radio AM 1000. Out-of-town listeners will be able to hear the program online simulcast between 1 and 3 PM at www.YOU-AUTO-KNOW.com and www.KCEOradio.com. With a bit of luck listeners will be able to hear the sounds of screaming airplane engines in the background.

Jan

--

Jan Wagner

AutoMatters automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer

Co-host with Dave Stall on "You-Auto-Know" on KCEO San Diego radio AM 1000 (Saturdays: 1-3 PM)

In newspapers and online at www.AutoMatters.net

Memberships: Motor Press Guild, American Auto Racing Writers' & Broadcasters' Association (AARWBA), Nikon Professional Services

AARWBA first place awards for color photography

 

 

Fans Fill the Palacio de los Deportes in Final Day of
X Games Mexico Presented by Rockstar Energy Drink
Event Concludes on a High Note with a Total of 27,508 in Attendance
 over the Weekend

Mexico City, Mexico – The inaugural X Games Mexico Presented by
 Rockstar Energy Drink concluded today in Mexico City as 14,038 screaming fans
 welcomed a world-class, international field of gravity defying
 athletes. The three-day event showcased some of the world’s best action sport
 athletes from 12 countries and three continents, competing in BMX
 Freestyle Street, Skateboard Street and Moto X Best Trick at the Palacio de
 los Deportes.

"The excitement at X Games Mexico Presented by Rockstar Energy Drink
 this weekend proved a continuing demand for action sports around the
 globe," said Rick Alessandri, senior vice president, general manager, ESPN
 Consumer Products and X Games Franchise Managing Director. "We look
 forward to bringing X to the fans around the world and are ecstatic to
 host the return of X Games Dubai this December."

BMX Freestyle Street
While Hector Garcia of Mexico received the loudest ovation from his
 hometown, it was USA riders Garrett Reynolds, Aaron Ross and Van Homan
 that swept the podium with several difficult combinations including
 Reynolds’ gold medal run which consisted of a wall ride to truck driver to
 fakie, and then landing a 360 bar spin backwards.

“It was exciting out there and it was fun entertaining the crowd,” said
 gold medalist Garrett Reynolds. “I couldn’t be more ecstatic with the
 way this competition turned out.”

Skateboard Vert
Competitors dazzled the fans with a variety of spins, McTwists and
 kickflips as they soared in the air. Canadian Pierre-Luc Gagnon edged out
 his competitors with his last run comprising of a kickflip mute to
 fakie, then to back-to-back 720s. Brazilian competitor Digo Menezes launched
 high out of the vert ramp attempting difficult maneuvers such as the
 Stalefish 720, earning him silver, while crowds also cheered on fellow
 Brazilian Sandro Dias who executed high flying Christ-Airs and made
 numerous attempts at the 900 spin. Although he was unable to successfully
 land the 900, the crowd still showed their support, applauding in
 appreciation for his effort. Dias took home the bronze.

“It wasn’t easy going up against Digo’s Stalefish 720 and Sandro’s 900
 attempts,” said Gagnon. “I knew I had to go out and kill it and I did.”

Skateboard Street
The fast pace of the Skateboard Street competition maintained the day’s
 momentum following the Skateboard Vert Final. As the sea of spectators
 shifted from one side of the stadium for a better view of the street
 course, well-known Mexican skater Max Barrera kicked off the competition
 while the crowd chanted and cheered for their country’s
 representatives. However, it was Greg Lutzka of the USA who flexed his skate street
 dominance most impressively. Having recently won a silver medal at X
 Games 13, Lutzka was able to one-up his his own performance with a gold
 medal finish here in Mexico. Argentinean Milton Martinez took home the
 silver and Brazil’s Rodil De Araujo rounded out the top three with
 bronze.

“I’ve had a good time here and winning gold just makes everything that
 much better,” said Lutzka. “I hope that we keep coming back and all I
 have to say is ‘gracias’.”

Moto X Step Up
Past two-time X Games Step Up gold medalist Matt Buyten claimed his
 first gold south of the border in the Moto X Step Up competition,
 finishing with a height of 23.5 feet, while last night’s Moto X Best Trick gold
 medalist Todd Potter finished in second at 23 feet. Eight-time X Games
 medalist Brian Deegan finished in third at  21 feet.

“It was amazing to compete in Mexico. The crowd was so enthusiastic and
 I’m extremely happy to walk away with the gold,” said Buyten.

ABOUT THE ESPN X GAMES FRANCHISE
ESPN, The Worldwide Leader in Action Sports, first developed its X
 Games franchise in 1995. Part of ESPN Content Development, X Games, Winter
 X Games and All Access are just some of the original action sports
 programming currently shown on ESPN and ESPN2. In addition to the two
 U.S.-based events, ESPN has held X Games competitions and demonstration
 events around the world including Dubai, Thailand, Brazil, Mexico, Korea,
 Malaysia and Spain. The global franchise has also expanded its reach to
 EXPN.com, the definitive site for action sports fans, and to consumer
 products such as X Games bikes, protective gear, skateboards and DVDs.

Programming for the inaugural 2007 X Games Mexico Presented by Rockstar
 will be offered on ESPN Dos and ESPN360 from Sept. 8-10. ESPN360 will
 also feature bonus coverage of practices and non-televised events
 immediately following the telecast. Additional exclusive coverage including
 simulcast with ESPN Dos in Spanish, delayed simulcast in English and
 VOD highlight clips will stream daily on EXPN.com. From Sept. 21-23, ESPN
 International will also air coverage from the event pan-regionally in
 Latin America. Visit the official websites www.xgames.com/mexico  for
 the most current X Games Mexico information and www.ticketmaster.com for
 ticketing information.

Sponsors and Partners
X Games Mexico Presented by Rockstar is sponsored by presenting sponsor
 Rockstar Energy Drink and Gold sponsor Ford Motor Company.

X Games Mexico Presented by Rockstar is co-organized by OCESA, the
 largest entertainment company in Latin America, while the Palacio de los
 Deportes is the official venue.
 

 

Simon Tabron Takes Home Gold in BMX Vert; USA Sweeps Moto X Best Trick
Second Day of Event Draws a Crowd of 13,470 at the Palacio de los
 Deportes

Mexico City, Mexico – The energy of the spectators shook the venue in
 Day Two of X Games Mexico Presented by Rockstar Energy Drink. Fans
 gathered to watch athletes exert amplitude and difficult maneuvers in the
 BMX Freestyle Vert and Moto X Best Trick finals. Skateboard Vert and BMX
 Freestyle Street Elimination Rounds also selected finalists for events
 to be held tomorrow.

BMX Freestyle Vert Final
Simon Tabron of Great Britain, and USA riders Jay Eggleston and Zack
 Warden contended for the gold with high energy routines in the BMX
 Freestyle Vert Final. The three were the remaining finalists out of 10
 competitors in the head-to-head jam format. The crowd erupted into cheers as
 the riders attempted to one-up each other with combinations of hand
 plants, allie-oops and tail whips. In the last moment of his run, a hiccup
 caused Eggleston to fall behind Tabron in second position. Tabron then
 entertained the crowd with a series of back to back 540 maneuvers and
 a 900 spin, earning him the gold.

“The enthusiasm at the X Games seen today is truly amazing,” said an
 enthusiastic Tabron. “You can feel the excitement everywhere. I had so
 much fun out there and I’m proud to take home gold.”
 
Moto X Best Trick Final
The crowd kept up its momentum with the wave as the final competition
 concluded the evening. Although all of the Moto X Best Trick competitors
 received roars of approval from the fans, the USA swept the podium.
 American rider Todd Potter took the gold medal with his best trick, the
 “Kamikaze,” where he extended his body straight while being upside down
 in the air. Kyle Loza finished in second position with his
 self-invented trick, “The Volt” and Jeremy “Twitch” Stenberg rounded out the top
 three after taking third with a “Double Can Indie Flip” to “Heel Clicker”
 combination.

“Mexico City is great and I hope the X Games happen here every year,”
 said Potter. “I didn’t know that I would be walking home with gold and
 it wasn’t easy.”

X Games Mexico Presented by Rockstar Energy Drink concludes tomorrow
 with the finals in BMX Freestyle Street, Skateboard Vert, Skateboard
 Street and Moto X Step Up.

ABOUT THE ESPN X GAMES FRANCHISE
ESPN, The Worldwide Leader in Action Sports, first developed its X
 Games franchise in 1995. Part of ESPN Content Development, X Games, Winter
 X Games and All Access are just some of the original action sports
 programming currently shown on ESPN and ESPN2. In addition to the two
 U.S.-based events, ESPN has held X Games competitions and demonstration
 events around the world including Dubai, Thailand, Brazil, Mexico, Korea,
 Malaysia and Spain. The global franchise has also expanded its reach to
 EXPN.com, the definitive site for action sports fans, and to consumer
 products such as X Games bikes, protective gear, skateboards and DVDs.

Programming for the inaugural 2007 X Games Mexico Presented by Rockstar
 will be offered on ESPN Dos and ESPN360 from Sept. 8-10. ESPN360 will
 also feature bonus coverage of practices and non-televised events
 immediately following the telecast. Additional exclusive coverage including
 simulcast with ESPN Dos in Spanish, delayed simulcast in English and
 VOD highlight clips will stream daily on EXPN.com. From Sept. 21-23, ESPN
 International will also air coverage from the event pan-regionally in
 Latin America. Visit the official websites www.xgames.com/mexico  for
 the most current X Games Mexico information and www.ticketmaster.com for
 ticketing information.

Sponsors and Partners
X Games Mexico Presented by Rockstar is sponsored by presenting sponsor
 Rockstar Energy Drink and Gold sponsor Ford Motor Company.

X Games Mexico Presented by Rockstar is co-organized by OCESA, the
 largest entertainment company in Latin America, while the Palacio de los
 Deportes is the official venue.
 

 

Simon Tabron Dominates BMX Freestyle Vert; Rodil de Araujo Leads in Skateboard Street

Day One of Premier Action Sports Event Kicks-off in Mexico City


Mexico City, Mexico – The first day of X Games Mexico Presented by
 Rockstar Energy Drink kicked off last night at the Palacio de los Deportes.
 With a strong international representation of competitors from around
 the Globe participating in BMX Freestyle Vert and Skateboard Street
 Elimination Rounds, today’s festivities marked the first time an
 international X Games event has been held in Mexico City. 

In response to the opening day, Gerardo Casanova, general manager, ESPN
 Mexico said, “We are very excited to have X Games Mexico Presented by
 Rockstar Energy Drink in our city. Day One was more successful than I
 could have imagined and I am looking forward to an action-filled
 weekend,” said Casanova. “

BMX Freestyle Vert Elimination
BMX athletes from Latin America, Spain and the USA performed a showdown
 of routines including big airs, tail whips, flips and flares. In a
 close battle between American riders Jay Eggleston, and the youngest
 competitor, Zack Warden, the USA was a contender for a first qualifying
 finish. However, a flawless and stylistic finish by Simon Tabron allowed
 him to emerge victorious over his opponents with a score of 93.00.

Skateboard Street Elimination
Talents from local competitors in Mexico stirred high energy in their
 hometown as they executed each difficult maneuver. Rodil de Araujo of
 Brazil commanded the lead with a score of 87.89, with American street
 skater Greg Lutzka following behind with an 84.44 and Milton Martinez from
 Argentina ending in third position with an 83.22.

Tomorrow fans can look forward to watching final competitions in BMX
 Freestyle Vert and Moto X Best Trick. Elimination Rounds will also take
 place for BMX Freestyle Street and Skateboard Vert. For an updated
 schedule, go to www.xgames.com/mexico.

ABOUT THE ESPN X GAMES FRANCHISE
ESPN, The Worldwide Leader in Action Sports, first developed its X
 Games franchise in 1995. Part of ESPN Content Development, X Games, Winter
 X Games and All Access are just some of the original action sports
 programming currently shown on ESPN and ESPN2. In addition to the two
 U.S.-based events, ESPN has held X Games competitions and demonstration
 events around the world including Dubai, Thailand, Brazil, Mexico, Korea,
 Malaysia and Spain. The global franchise has also expanded its reach to
 EXPN.com, the definitive site for action sports fans, and to consumer
 products such as X Games bikes, protective gear, skateboards and DVDs.

Programming for the inaugural 2007 X Games Mexico Presented by Rockstar
 Energy Drink will be offered on ESPN Dos and ESPN360 from Sept. 8-10.
 ESPN360 will also feature bonus coverage of practices and non-televised
 events immediately following the telecast. Additional exclusive
 coverage including simulcast with ESPN Dos in Spanish, delayed simulcast in
 English and VOD highlight clips will stream daily on EXPN.com. From
 Sept. 21-23, ESPN International will also air coverage from the event
 pan-regionally in Latin America. Visit the official websites
 www.xgames.com/mexico  for the most current X Games Mexico information and
 www.ticketmaster.com for ticketing information.

Sponsors and Partners
X Games Mexico Presented by Rockstar is sponsored by presenting sponsor
 Rockstar Energy Drink and Gold sponsor Ford Motor Company.

X Games Mexico Presented by Rockstar is co-organized by OCESA, the
 largest entertainment company in Latin America, while the Palacio de los
 Deportes is the official venue.
 

BMX FREESTYLE STREET ELIMINATION

Elimination Results from the Palacio de los Deportes

September 8, 2007

Rank

Bib#

Name

Country

Score

 

1.

202

Van Homan

USA

87.22

 

2.

204

Garrett Reynolds

USA

86.67

 

3.

206

Aaron Ross

USA

86.67

 

4.

215

Alistair Whitton

USA

85.78

 

5.

219

Rob Wise

USA

85.56

 

6.

214

Josh Harrington

USA

85.00

 

7.

203

Will Love

USA

83.89

 

8.

200

Christian Balcameda

ARG

82.22

 

9.

208

Hector Garcia

MEX

81.22

 

10.

209

Corey Martinez

USA

80.56

 

BMX VERT FINALS

Final Results from the Palacio de los Deportes

September 8, 2007

Rank

Name

Country

Score

1. Simon Tabron GBR 93.00

2. Jay Eggleston USA 92.33

3. Zack Warden USA 90.33

4. Eduardo Terreros ESP 89.67

5. Koji Kraft USA 88.00

6. Dave Brumlow USA 83.00

7. Erik Soto MEX 82.33

8. Reginaldo Silva BRZ 81.33

9. Oliver Cantillo VEN 81.00

10. Tom Haugen USA 79.33

11. Ruben Luna VEN 78.00

12. Cruz Munoz MEX 77.00

 

AVP Announces Debut of Indoor Winter Tour

AVP Hot Winter Nights Tour Launches with 19 Events to Take Place January through February 2008

-- AVP, Inc. , a lifestyle sports entertainment company focused on professional beach volleyball today announced the first-ever indoor beach volleyball national tour with the 2008 AVP Hot Winter Nights Tour.

Driven by the nationwide popularity of the AVP Crocs Tour, the 2008 AVP Hot Winter Nights Tour, in partnership with AEG, will kick off January 10, 2008 and run through February 23rd, and will bring the excitement and experience of an AVP beach volleyball tournament indoors for the very first time with each stop consisting of a three hour competition and 'beach festival.'

Taking place during the dead of winter, the all-new 'winter beach party' will bring the beach (including over 200 tons of sand) and the most popular and talented players on the AVP Crocs tour. Current athletes on the AVP Crocs Tour include Kerri Walsh, Misty May-Treanor, Elaine Youngs, Jake Gibb, Sean Rosenthal, Phil Dalhauser, Todd Rogers and Stein Metzger among others, to arenas in many likely snowbound cities in the Midwest and Northeast United States. With the two-player teams competing in a round robin play format, fans will experience the best of the best competing against each other at every event.

Instead of packing up your bathing suits for the winter months the AVP Hot Winter Nights Tour will keep the summer spirit and heat alive with events in 19 cities across the US. While everyone else will be sipping cocoa and trying to keep warm the AVP will heat things up with the hottest beach parties all winter long.

Join the fun as the best of the beach compete on the first indoor tour of its kind from January 10 to February 23. Tickets will go on sale August 10 on the AVP website at http://www.avp.com/ and at http://www.ticketmaster.com/.

Jan. 10 - Oklahoma City, OK - Ford Center

Jan. 11 - St. Louis, MO - Scottrade Center

Jan. 12 - Kansas City, MO - Sprint Center

Jan. 17 - Milwaukee, WI - Bradley Center

Jan. 18 - Madison, WI - Alliant Energy Center

Jan. 19 - LaCrosse, WI - LaCrosse Center

Jan. 24 - Minneapolis, MN - Target Center

Jan. 26 - Columbus, OH - Nationwide Arena

Jan. 30 - Albany, NY - Times Union Center

Jan. 31 - Trenton, NJ - Sovereign Bank Arena

Feb. 1 - Norfolk, VA - Constant Convocation Center

Feb. 2 - Charlottesville, VA - John Paul Jones Arena

Feb. 7 - Omaha, NE - Qwest Center

Feb. 8 - Rosemont, IL - Allstate Arena

Feb. 9 - Bloomington, IL - US Cellular Coliseum

Feb. 13 - Spokane, WA - Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena

Feb. 14 - Everett, WA - Everett Event Center

Feb. 16 - Portland, OR - Rose Quarter Arena

Feb. 23 - Las Vegas NV - Orleans Arena

"We are excited to be extending the AVP season to include the Hot Winter Nights indoor tour, bringing beach volleyball to more markets in 2008 than ever before," said AVP CEO Leonard Armato. "We are committed to the continued growth of the AVP as one of the most successful sports and lifestyle brands on a year round basis," Armato concluded.

About the AVP, Inc

AVP Pro Beach Volleyball Tour, Inc. is a leading lifestyle sports entertainment company focused on the production, marketing and distribution of professional beach volleyball events worldwide. AVP operates the industry's most prominent national touring series, the AVP Pro Beach Volleyball Tour, which was organized in 1983. Featuring more than 150 of the top American men and women competitors in the sport, AVP is set to stage 18 events throughout the United States in 2007. In 2004, AVP athletes successfully represented the United States during the Olympics in Athens, Greece, winning gold and bronze medals, the first medals won by U.S. women in professional beach volleyball. For more information, please visit http://www.avp.com/.

ABOUT AEG

AEG is one of the leading sports and entertainment presenters in the world. AEG, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Anschutz Company, owns or controls a collection of companies including facilities such as STAPLES Center, Toyota Sports Center, Toyota Park, Anaheim Arena (as preferred booking agent), NOKIA Theatre Times Square, NOKIA Theatre at Grand Prairie, Hollywood's El Rey Theatre, Seattle's WaMu Theatre, Minneapolis' Target Center and the just opened The O2, a 28-acre development located in the eastern part of London which includes a 20,000 seat arena and over 650,000sf of leisure and entertainment use; sports franchises throughout the world including the Los Angeles Kings (NHL), Los Angeles Riptide (MLL) and three MLS franchises. In addition, AEG developed and operates The Home Depot Center, a $150 million national training facility on the Campus of California State University Dominguez Hills in Carson, California designated as an "Official U.S. Olympic Training Site" by the United States Olympic Committee that includes major facilities for soccer, tennis, track & field, cycling, lacrosse, rugby, action sports, beach volleyball, basketball and other sports.

The company's live entertainment division, AEG LIVE is one of the world's leading concert promotion and touring organizations that has recently promoted national tours on behalf of artists such as Prince, Bon Jovi, Kenney Chesney and Cheetah Girls as well as producing "A New Day ... " starring Celine Dion appearing exclusively at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace and the international museum tour of King Tut's artifacts.

Source: AVP, Inc.

Web site: http://www.avp.com/

 

 

Hi everyone,
 
AutoMatters #247 is now online in the www.AutoMatters.net Column Archives.
 
Title: "New Baja Exhibit & Racing Legends at the San Diego Automotive Museum"
 
 
 
Preview November 10 – 16, 2007 will be the 40th anniversary of the Tecate Score 1000, a famous off-road race through Tijuana, Ensenada and Los Cabos which was first held in 1967. Participants compete in buggies, trucks, motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles.
 
Recently, to commemorate this special event, a new Baja Exhibit was opened at the San Diego Automotive Museum. Several racing legends were present for this opening and signed autographs.
 
To read more about this and to see more photos, go to the AutoMatters Web site link which you will find directly above this preview.
 
To see more AutoMatters columns, click on the "COLUMN ARCHIVES" button at www.AutoMatters.net, select a year and then click on the photo icons or titles.
 
Jan
 
--
 
Jan Wagner
AutoMatters automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer
bullet
Memberships: Motor Press Guild, American Auto Racing Writers' & Broadcasters' Association (AARWBA), Nikon Professional Services
bullet
In newspapers and online at www.AutoMatters.net
bullet
AARWBA first place awards for color photography in 50th. Anniversary journalism competition
San Diego, CA
 
-     -     -     -     -     -     -

Web site Technical Notes:

As mentioned above, you can go directly to this column by clicking on the above link (or, depending upon how your email is set up, you may have to cut and paste it into the address line of your browser). You may also access this and other AutoMatters columns by navigating to them in this year's Column Archives via the Home Page at www.AutoMatters.net.  A clickable, descriptive thumbnail photo is included with each title. They are grouped by year, and are complete except for 2002 and 2003.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Readers have asked me how to see other AutoMatters columns in the Column Archives if they followed a link directly to a particular column, thus bypassing the website's home page. It's easy. Just scroll back up to the top of the page and then click the "COLUMN ARCHIVES" button. Another way would be to click on www.AutoMatters.net which is in the last paragraph of every column.

If there are a lot of photos in a column, it may take a bit longer than usual to display on your computer. If one or two photos will not fully display, try clearing your Internet temp file and then do a View --> Refresh.

 

 

Tony Hawk to Kick Off Dynacraft's HuckJam Bike Debut at Interbike 2007

-- Dynacraft BSC, Inc. announced today that action sports pioneer Tony Hawk will make a guest appearance at Interbike 2007 in Las Vegas. Mr. Hawk will help Dynacraft introduce its new Tony Hawk HuckJam Series and Tony Hawk HuckJam Signature Series bike lines at an event to be held at the Dynacraft booth at Interbike 2007.

Mr. Hawk is planning to meet with the press on Thursday, September 27th from 3:00 to 3:30 PM. Immediately following the press conference, he will greet the public and sign autographs. Dynacraft, in conjunction with Mr. Hawk and his team, is developing two different bike lines under the "Tony Hawk HuckJam" brand. Tony Hawk HuckJam Series and Tony Hawk HuckJam Signature Series bikes will be available in retail stores beginning Spring 2008.

In announcing Tony Hawk's appearance at Interbike 2007, Dynacraft Managing Director John Bisges said "We're very pleased to have Tony Hawk with us at Interbike as we debut these two innovative lines of bicycles. Tony and his team have been true partners in every step of the development process. Therefore, it's highly appropriate that Tony is with us in person as we present Tony Hawk HuckJam bikes to the biking community".

Tony Hawk HuckJam Series bikes are being created for Dynacraft's mass merchandise customers. Offering an outstanding value to the consumer, they will be designed primarily for kids and entry-level recreational riders. Tony Hawk Signature Series bikes are being created for serious bike enthusiasts and will be distributed through sporting goods chains and other specialty retail customers. Developed by Dynacraft's new Specialty Retail Group, this line will include super premium carbon fiber bikes and highest end 20" rotor bikes, some to be distributed online and through select customers. All Tony Hawk HuckJam bikes will feature higher end components, innovative paint finishes, new types of frames, and cutting edge decal and graphics packages.

About Dynacraft BSC, Inc.

Dynacraft BSC, Inc. is a leading U.S. bicycle distributor. With eleven different brands and over 150 models, the company distributes bikes each year to customers that include Academy Sports, Amazon.com, Costco.com, KB Toys, Target, Toys R Us and Wal-Mart, to name a few. Through its newly launched Specialty Retail Group, Dynacraft also provides specialty and sporting retailers, as well as consumers, with technologically advanced product lines that deliver superior value versus competition. Dynacraft employs a vertically integrated business approach designed to ensure quality control at every step of the process. The company maintains corporate headquarters and warehouse operations in American Canyon, California. For additional information, please go to www.dynacraftbike.com.

About Tony Hawk Inc.

Tony Hawk Inc. is a world leader in its field with the unprecedented ability to bring alternative sports and their unique lifestyle to the masses while maintaining an indispensable edge of authenticity with the market's hard-core, trendsetting audience. Founded by Tony Hawk in 1998 and based in Vista, CA, the company is organized into five segments: Merchandising, Events, Endorsements, Film and Digital Media. These lifestyle sports include skateboarding, BMX, Motocross, surfing and snowboarding. Consumer goods bearing the Tony Hawk brand have dominated several markets, including interactive games, skateboards and sporting goods, lifestyle apparel, toys, interactive content, food, publications and more.

Web site: http://www.dynacraftbike.com/

 

 

AutoMatters #246 is now online in the www.AutoMatters.net Column Archives. Title: "2007 Los Angeles Concours d'Elegance" Direct Link: http://www.automatters.net/2007%20Columns/0246.htm

Preview: Especially since there will be a lot of coverage now of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, this AutoMatters will bring you the Las Angeles Concours d'Elegance. I really got carried away with the number of my photos of this event. There were so many incredible vehicles there -- both on display and also driving around the golf course in Pasadena, that I just couldn't help myself. I hope you enjoy them. By the way, you'll probably need to allow for a little extra time for your computer to load all of them.

To learn more, go to http://www.automatters.net/2007%20Columns/0246.htm.


1946 Ford Station Wagon

To see this column, go to the direct link at the top of this page. To see even more columns, click on the "COLUMN ARCHIVES" button at www.AutoMatters.net, select a year and then click on the photo icons or titles.

 

Web site Technical Notes:

As mentioned earlier, you can go directly to this column by clicking on the above link (or, depending upon how your email is set up, you may have to cut and paste it into the address line of your browser). You may also access this and other AutoMatters columns by navigating to them in this year's Column Archives via the Home Page at www.AutoMatters.net. A clickable, descriptive thumbnail photo is included with each title. They are grouped by year, and are complete except for 2002 and 2003.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Readers have asked me how to see other AutoMatters columns in the Column Archives if they followed a link directly to a particular column, thus bypassing the website's home page. It's easy. Just scroll back up to the top of the page and then click the "COLUMN ARCHIVES" button. Another way would be to click on www.AutoMatters.net which is in the last paragraph of every column.

If there are a lot of photos in a column, it may take a bit longer than usual to display on your computer. If one or two photos will not fully display, try clearing your Internet temp file and then do a View --> Refresh.

As always, I hope you enjoy reading AutoMatters as much as I enjoy creating it.

Jan

--

Jan Wagner

AutoMatters automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer

Memberships: Motor Press Guild, American Auto Racing Writers' & Broadcasters' Association (AARWBA), Nikon Professional Services

In newspapers and online at www.AutoMatters.net

AARWBA first place awards for color photography in 50th. Anniversary journalism competition

San Diego, CA

jwagner2@san.rr.com

 

 

DRIVE THE FUTURE WITH FISKER AUTOMOTIVE,
A NEW GREEN AMERICAN PREMIUM CAR COMPANY



IRVINE, Calif. Sept.5, 2007: Quantum Technologies and Fisker Coachbuild, LLC
announce the launch of a joint venture in Fisker Automotive, Inc. - a green American
premium car company. Fisker Automotive will offer a range of environmentally
friendly premium cars – with the first production car to make its Worldwide North
American debut at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show in January. Initial production is
anticipated to be 15,000 vehicles annually with pricing to start under $100,000.



Design and technology development are already underway for the first production car.
All models will feature cutting-edge plug-in hybrid technology penned as Quantum
Drive, developed by Quantum Technologies exclusively for Fisker Automotive. This
all-new plug–in Quantum Drive chassis layout will allow Fisker to design innovative
luxury cars with uncompromised proportions.



The Fisker name has attracted and attained worldwide brand recognition, thanks to
years of first-class automotive designs. Over his 18 years in the car design business,
Henrik Fisker has left his thumbprint on some of the most highly regarded automobiles.
His creations range from the BMW Z8, Aston Martin DB9 & V8 Vantage to his most
recent creations – the Tramonto and Latigo CS, designed under the Fisker Coachbuild
nameplate. Fisker Automotive will retain the orange and blue logo originated at Fisker
Coachbuild.



“The troubled environment is captivating the attention of the world. Developing a
premium luxury green car which also delivers attractive design can make a difference.
We are extremely excited to join our automotive design expertise with the plug-in
hybrid technology of Quantum in Quantum Drive. This breakthrough chassis
development will allow us to deliver a design with dramatic proportions – one which
will carry the Fisker badge,” expressed Henrik Fisker, CEO of Fisker Automotive, Inc.
“We want people to drive beautiful fast cars that make environmental sense – cars that
are eco-chic.”








Quantum Technologies has a long history of advancing technology. Benefits in
developing an entirely new, from-the-ground-up design for a plug-in hybrid vehicle
include optimized fuel efficiency and performance, unchanged gas station
infrastructure, home based battery recharging with any 110-volt outlet at a fraction of
the cost. A cleaner and a quieter car for local travel…all with the most advanced
comforts that are anticipated with a luxury car.


“Our goal here is to deliver the advancement that Quantum Technologies has made in
the area of plug-in hybrid technology. By combining our efforts with the renowned
design talent of Henrik Fisker, we can produce a car that makes a difference to the
environment – without sacrificing the luxury that accompanies the finest automobiles,”
stated Alan Niedzwiecki, CEO Quantum Technologies.



Fisker Automotive is a privately owned car company, operated by executive
management teams of Fisker Coachbuild, LLC and Quantum Technologies with
Henrik Fisker as the CEO of Fisker Automotive. Fisker Coachbuild, LLC will be the
exclusive design house for Fisker Automotive through the entire range of product
development.



About Quantum Technologies:

Quantum is a publicly traded, world leader and OEM supplier of state-of-the-art clean
propulsion technologies, fuel and energy storage technologies and services including
propulsion systems for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, hydrogen internal combustion engine
vehicles, compressed natural gas vehicles, liquid petroleum vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles
and plug-in hybrids based on advanced electronic control systems and Lithium Ion batteries
developed by Quantum's strategic alliance partner Advanced Lithium Power Ltd. Quantum
also provides engineering services including vehicle development and homologation and
second stage vehicle manufacturing through its subsidiary Tecstar.



About Fisker Coachbuild, LLC:

Fisker Coachbuild, LLC is a privately owned company that has brought a new vision to the
world of exotic, high-end performance sports cars. Their distinctively designed and expertly
engineered automobiles are hand crafted using only the best quality materials and infused
with cutting-edge safety technology. Fisker Coachbuild offers elegant and timeless sports
cars of limited production providing the ultimate in exclusivity. The Fisker line is currently
comprised of the Tramonto and Latigo CS. Creative design services are also carried out for
further brand recognition within Fisker Coachbuild through merchandising. Designed by
Fisker Coachbuild has also made its mark with the Artega GT design recently launched at the
Geneva Auto Show in 2007. Now the future strategy will be to focus solely on the design of
the environmental friendly premium cars for Fisker Automotive, Inc.



# # #
 

 

L.A. Team Wins Gold Medal at 2007 Maccabi Games®

Soccer Players Ally Maize and Alexa Block of Beverly Hills Score Big in Olympic-style Competition

Click here to see downloadable versions Beverly Hills soccer players Ally Maize (left) and Alexa Block celebrate their gold medal wins at the recent Maccabi Games, which brings together more than 6,000 Jewish youth annually in Olympic style athletic competition.

--Beverly Hills residents Ally Maize and teammate, Alexa Block, were two of just ten lucky teens selected to represent the city of Los Angeles in the 2007 Maccabi Games®, part of the worlds largest annual summer sporting competition for Jewish youth. The L.A. Team celebrated a gold medal win at the 25th annual Maccabi Games held in Orange County. Maize and Block competed in the week-long sporting event on the soccer field against teen athletes from around the world in a fun and culturally supportive environment.

We are very proud of Ally and Alexas dedication and enthusiasm as they trained, got selected and then competed alongside their teammates in these Olympic-style games, explained Rochelle and Richard Maize, Allys parents who have cheered her on for the second year in a row. The Maccabi Games are one of a few opportunities that instill an appreciation of Jewish values in a meaningful and influential peer-to-peer environment, added Richard Maize.

Past Maccabi Games competitions have featured many world class Jewish athletes, including Mitch Gaylord (gymnastics), Mark Spitz and Lenny Krayzelburg (swimming), Ernie Grunfeld and Danny Schayes (basketball), and Brad Gilbert and Dick Savitt (tennis).

The Maccabi movement originally began in Israel in 1895 and was introduced to the U.S. in 1982 with 300 participating athletes. Today, the Maccabi Games involve more than 6,000 Jewish teenagers between the ages of 13 and 16 competing in summer games held in multiple sites in North America and carries on a proud tradition of athletic competition. Participants have an opportunity to compete in one of 14 sports and no matter which team wins, all participants in the games are winners just for playing in such an important global event.

 

Best of the Best Award for Viper 10x42 from Vortex

Americas leading outdoor magazine, Field & Stream, Awards the Viper 10x42 binocular as the Best of the Best in the optics category.
Click here to see downloadable versions Based in Middleton Wisconsin, Vortex Optics has been designing and manufacturing its own line of optics since the late 1990's. The award winning Vortex Viper 10x42 exemplifies the company's commitment to excellence and innovation. From left to right: Joe Hamilton, Dan Hamilton and Sam Hamilton. (Photo: Business Wire)

-Each year for the past decade, Field & Stream magazine distinguishes the best outdoor equipment in their annual Gear of the Year Issue. This year, a test crew comprised of expert hunters, ranchers and outdoor outfitters recognized the Vortex Viper 10x42 as the Best of the Best - the number one binocular over all others. The Field & Stream test crew critically evaluated every aspect of optical quality, ergonomics and durability. They carefully examined engineering and workmanship, subjecting binoculars to strenuous and demanding trials including an overnight stay in a minus-10-degree freezer and submersing them for one minute underwater to test for internal fogging and waterproofing. As a result of its superior quality, design and optical performance the Vortex Viper 10x42 beat out the rest of the competition.

Based in Middleton Wisconsin, Vortex Optics has been designing and manufacturing its own line of optics since the late 1990s. The award winning Vortex Viper 10x42 exemplifies the companys commitment to excellence and innovation. Commenting on this tradition and recognition, Dan Hamilton, Vortex President/CEO said, It was an exciting day to announce to our staff the winning of this prestigious award. Our goal has always been to listen to our customers and professionals in the field to design and refine our products based on real life experiences. We would like to thank Field & Stream for their efforts in rigorous testing, objectivity and recognition of the Viper's excellence.

The Vortex Viper 10x42 features an advanced roof prism design that incorporates phase-corrected, high-density BaK-4 roof prisms and Xtra-low dispersion (XD) glass. Additionally, the Viper employs proprietary XR multi-layer anti-reflective coatings to deliver superior resolution and light transmittance. The result is remarkable image definition and impressive low-light performance. The Viper is built with a tough rugged chassis, incorporating durable alloy housings which are covered in shock-absorbing rubber armor. The Viper, like all Vortex binoculars and scopes, is protected by the best warranty in the industry, unconditional and unlimited.

Watch for more exciting and innovative products from Vortex, the Force of Optics. www.vortexoptics.com

 

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