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Venturini Motorsports’ Steve Arpin Set for ARCA Slick Mist 200 at Daytona

By
SM Staff
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[media-credit id=4 align=”alignleft” width=”124″][/media-credit]With only five days till the ARCA Re/Max Series Slick Most 200 at Daytona International Speedway, many teams are set to go and releasing their final details. Venturini Motorsports is no exception as they have plans set in stone for veteran driver Steve Arpin.

When it came to the test at Daytona last month, Arpin went down there to help out Venturini Motorsports’ young drivers Hal Martin, Kyle Fowler and Mark Thompson.
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“The new surface is awesome,” he told me of the test. “It’s going to make for awesome racing. I tested twice there since the new surface has been down – the tire test for Hoosier and the ARCA test for Venturini Motorsports. Venturini had a whole fleet of fast racecars there; it’d be cool to go back there and drive one, but the new race track is going to make for awesome racing. I think you’re going to see the whole bunched up, nose-to-tail, a lot tighter, more so like you do at Talladega. But then in token with the transitions so much more aggressive at Daytona, it’s going to make for a lot of interesting scenarios throughout the race.”

Though after talking with sponsor Mike’s Hard Lemonade and starting to work out details, the 2010 ARCA Racing Series Most Popular Driver is set to run the season opener, driving the No. 25 for Venturini Motorsports.

“Venturini has always put a great effort into Daytona,” Arpin said in a press release. “The problem with restrictor plate racing is that anything can happen and you have to play every one of your cards right and hope that luck is on your side.

“But on the same token, all we have control over is the effort that we put in. Being at the shop, I see firsthand the time and effort the entire team is putting into it, not just me as a driver. I think in all of the years that we have gone to Daytona, they have come a long way with their restrictor plate program each and every year. I think it is going to be a cut above the rest this year more so than any other year.”

The Fort Frances, Ontario native brings experience to the table as last year he won three races in 18 starts and despite missing two races, he finished 12th in the standings. He almost won the restrictor plate at Talladega Superspeedway after making a move in the late going.

Arpin also brings the Nationwide Series experience he gained in 2010 after running seven races for JR Motorsports, including a top 10 at Daytona in July. His experience on the restrictor plate tracks has taught him lessons he hopes to put in use come this Saturday afternoon.

“It takes such incredible focus and concentration to be going 200 miles an hour and your spotter is on the radio telling you that you’re six or seven deep, three-wide, in the middle. You’re an inch off the guy’s bumper in front of you, you’ve got two or three inches on either side of you and there’s another guy on your rear bumper and it’s just a mental thrill maintaining your line and using the air (drafting) to gain an advantage and get past the guy in front of you or to use the air (pull out of the draft) to slow another guy down.”

His success in 2010 earned him the Inside Track Reader’s Choice Awards Canadian Racer of the Year Award.

“To be recognized for any award is fabulous,” Arpin said. “But it is such a special honour to have the fans vote for you. This kind of award is something that means far more to me than the trophies for points. Everything I’ve accomplished so far was made possible by the support I’ve received, not just from Mike’s, but from the fans all across the country. I’m living my dream right now, and these people are along on the ride with me.”

Lastly, Arpin brings back Mike’s Hard Lemonade, which sponsored him throughout his 2010 ARCA campaign and looks to move forward with him.

“It’s great having Mike’s Hard Lemonade back with us this year,” Arpin said in the release. “Last year was a great success for everyone involved and we are excited about our continued partnership.”

Arpin’s relationship with Mike’s Hard Lemonade began back when he was running at Deer Creek Speedway on dirt.

“This is something we’ve been working on since our dirt-tracking days back at Deer Creek Speedway (near Rochester, Minn.),” Arpin told the Toronto Star. “We developed a great relationship with them there. They were a sponsor at that race track and when we raced there we did everything we could to help them out. As I’ve moved up to the higher levels of motorsports, we’ve kept that relationship going.”

Arpin plans to take the Mike’s Hard Lemonade sponsorship with him to the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and beyond.

“In a perfect world, I’d like to race a full season this year in the Camping World Truck Series and a full Nationwide season — and let’s throw in a couple of Cup races for good measure. But right now I’m focusing on trucks and I’d like to take Mike’s with us. As drivers, we have to market ourselves, we have to brand ourselves so that a corporation thinking about coming into the sport sees value in us, sees value in building a brand around us.

“Mike’s has never been involved in a full-blown NASCAR program and we want them to be just as comfortable moving forward as we are. At the end of the day, this isn’t about me, it’s not about my wife, it’s about us doing a good job for them. We have to build their brand into the sport — and secure my future as a race car driver, as well.”

Daytona unveils new Infield Tailgate Zones for the 53rd annual Daytona 500

By
Official Release
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DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – No major sporting event is complete without the opportunity to tailgate with friends and family prior to the start of the game, or in this case, NASCAR’s biggest and most prestigious race – the Daytona 500.  

Today, Daytona International Speedway announced new opportunities for fans to enjoy one of sports’ greatest traditions – tailgating – in the infield of the “World Center of Racing” for the 53rd running of the Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb. 20.  

For $50, Daytona 500 grandstand ticket holders can purchase an infield parking space for their car/light truck in one of two Infield Tailgate Zones located inside the legendary infield of Daytona International Speedway.

The Infield Tailgate Zone package provides six tailgate zone admissions and a parking spot for tailgating before and after the Daytona 500. In between tailgating, race fans can enjoy the first “Great American Race” on the newly paved racing surface from their frontstretch grandstand seat. 

To purchase an Infield Tailgate Zone package, call 1-800-PITSHOP or visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com

Fans can stay connected with Daytona International Speedway on Twitter (www.twitter.com/disupdates) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/DaytonaInternationalSpeedway).

Frank Kimmel Primed for 20th ARCA Racing Series Start at Daytona International Speedway

By
Official Release
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Cornelius, NC –Frank Kimmel is preparing to make 2011 a memorable year in countless ways. The nine time champion of the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards will be recording his 20th Daytona International Speedway start when he takes the green flag for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 on February 12, 2011.

The fact is this will be another illustrious milestone that Frank Kimmel has dispatched in a career that has seen him post over 400 career starts, collect 74 wins and claim 9 titles. However, these accomplishments lack two significant targets that Frank would like to see checked off this season, starting with this Saturday’s race at Daytona International Speedway.

“Daytona International Speedway is a special place for the ARCA Racing Series. In spite of everything I’ve accomplished at other tracks we compete on, Daytona has been the one that has eluded me. To be honest, restrictor plate racing has never been my strong suit and maybe we haven’t focused on it as much as we should have. With that said, this year we’re bringing a great Ansell-Menards Ford Fusion and if we can run a smart race then we should have a chance at victory lane,” said Frank Kimmel, driver of the No. 44 Ansell/Menards Ford.

After the dust clears from Daytona, Frank’s focus will subsequently shift towards winning his 10th ARCA Racing Series Championship. By Frank Kimmel standards, the past two years have been mediocre, so coming into 2011 the Kimmel Racing team feel like they have plenty to prove.

“We’ve ran well several times last year and put ourselves in position to win but sometimes factors out of our control would take those wins away or we wouldn’t close the deal. We’ve improved our program and I think it’ll be seen in how competitive we’ll be in 2011. Winning another championship would be awesome but it would mean more to see the folks from Ansell and Menards celebrating in victory lane,” said Frank Kimmel.

Watch for Frank Kimmel, as he makes his 20th start at Daytona International Speedway in the No. 44 Ansell-Menards Ford this Saturday during the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards. The event can be seen live on SPEED Channel at 4:30 pm EST.

NASCAR SPRINT CUP QUALIFYING MOVES TO SATURDAY FOR JUNE EVENTS

By
Official Release
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BROOKLYN, Mich. (Feb. 7, 2011) – The most recent of Michigan International Speedway’s changes has to be one of the best values in professional sports and entertainment today.  

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series pole qualifying for Michigan International Speedway’s Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips 400 has been moved to Saturday, June 18 from its traditional Friday spot, track officials announced.  

And at just $20 per ticket, at the current Value Pricing Period which ends February 28, the move gives fans a chance to see a full day of competitive Saturday racing action from the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and Nationwide Series. Drivers from both series practice that day, followed by pole qualifying sessions from both series and then the 250-mile Nationwide Series race.

  “It’s a packed day of fun, an affordable day of NASCAR and an amazing way to spend a Saturday in June,” speedway President Roger Curtis said. “This should allow fans to see all the excitement from setup and practice of the car to qualifying to a race.”  

Kids 12 and under are free that day. So a family of four can see two NASCAR race series on track all day, a race and a free concert after track activity for a reasonable price.  

June Schedule is as follows:  

Friday, June 17, 2011 10 a.m.                                       

Gates Open to the Public 10 a.m.                                       

ARCA Racing Series Qualifying 11:30 – 12:20 p.m.                      

NASCAR Nationwide Series Practice 12:30 – 1:50 p.m.                        

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Practice  2 – 3:20 p.m.                               

NASCAR Nationwide Series Final Practice 3:30 – 4:50 p.m.                          

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Final Practice 5 p.m.                                         

Pre-Race Activities & Driver Introductions 5:15 p.m.                                    

Start of RainEater Wiper Blades 200

Saturday, June 18, 2011           10 a.m.                                       

Gates Open to the Public 11:10 a.m.                                  

NASCAR Nationwide Series Qualifying (Two Laps, All Positions) 1:10 p.m.                                    

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Qualifying (Two laps, All Positions) 3 p.m.                                         

Pre-Race Activities & Driver Introductions 3:30 p.m.                                   

Start ofNASCAR Nationwide Series Race

Sunday, June 19, 2011           8 a.m.                                         

Gates Open to the Public 12:30 p.m.                                  

Pre-Race Activities & Driver Introductions 1 p.m.                                         

Start ofHeluva Good! Sour Cream Dips 400

Qualifying for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event in August will remain on Meijer Pole Day on Friday, Aug. 19. Those tickets are $7.50.   Nestled in the lush Irish Hills of Southeastern Michigan, Michigan International Speedway is the Great Escape, a venerable NASCAR national park where fans can get away and enjoy the very best in racing and camaraderie. It’s the love of racing and the thrill of a great time for race fans and drivers alike.   MIS’ Value Pricing ends on February 28. NASCAR Sprint Cup Series tickets for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips 400 on June 19 and NSCS 400 on August 21 are as low as $25. Visit MISpeedway.com or call the MIS ticket hotline at 800-354-1010 today to take advantage of great pricing for 2011 events at MIS.   Michigan International Speedway – 2011 Schedule Saturday, May 21       Great Lakes Wine Fest   Friday, June 17          

ARCA Racing Series RainEater Wiper Blades 200 Saturday, June 18     

NASCAR Nationwide Series Sunday, June 19        

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips 400   Friday, Aug. 19          

Meijer Pole Day Saturday, Aug. 20      

NASCAR Camping World Truck Series VFW 200 Sunday, Aug. 21         NASCAR Sprint Cup Series

NO. 16 3M TEAM LOOKING FOR HARD WORK TO PAY OFF IN 2011

By
Official Release
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CONCORD, N.C. (Feb. 7, 2011) – On the wall in the Roush Fenway training room there is a quote that says “The only substitution for hard work is a miracle.” The 3M team, led by crew chief Greg Erwin, believes in that quote wholeheartedly and are expecting their hard work to pay of this season.

“We are starting this year in a better position that we have since I joined the team,” said Erwin. “We have essentially the same group with a few key additions and our expectations are high. We have every resource at our disposal including the addition of a third-party engineering company to support the simulation program. There is no excuse to not reach our goals and that is how we are approaching this season.”

Driver Greg Biffle echoes Erwin’s enthusiasm and high expectations for the new season.

“About halfway through last season I could tell that our cars were getting better,” said Biffle. “The competition level is about as high as I’ve ever seen it, but this year I can honestly say that we are right there with the best of them. I’m completely confident with this team and the effort everyone is giving to make this year our most successful ever.”

A few new faces will be wearing the 3M logo when they arrive in Daytona next week. Todd Zeigler, who has been a tire changer with Roush Fenway since 1998, opted to take on a non-travel role with the team. Mike Lingerfelt, who had been with the No. 48 team at Hendrick Motorsports, will fill that position.

“We are fortunate to acquire such a talented and experienced replacement at the front tire changer position,” commented Erwin. “Todd will fortunately remain a part of the team and Mike is quickly integrating himself as a valuable asset to the crew.”

Mike Tam will provide additional engineering support both at the shop and at the track throughout the season. Justin Hines, who has worked with Biffle throughout his career at Roush Fenway, will take over engine tuning duties on the No. 16 Ford.

“Our immediate goal is to win a race early in the season to set the tone and provide momentum,” said Erwin. “Wins will be crucial and we are fully aware of that. We feel fully equipped to compete with the best teams week in and week out for those wins.”

About Roush Fenway Racing

Roush Fenway Racing is NASCAR’s largest team operating seven motorsports teams. Four in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series with drivers Matt Kenseth, Greg Biffle, Carl Edwards and David Ragan; and three in the Nationwide Series with Edwards, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., and Trevor Bayne. For more information on any of the Roush Fenway Racing teams, log onto http://www.roushfenway.com/ www.RoushFenway.com. Become a fan of Roush Fenway Racing on Facebook by going to http://www.facebook.com/roushfenway and follow us on Twitter @roushfenway. For sponsorship inquiries please contact Robin Johnson at 704.720.4645.

RyanWilsonMotorsports.com Re-Launched

By
Official Release
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RyanWilsonMotorsports.com Re-Launched

RANDLEMAN, North Carolina (February 7, 2011) – – In time for the 2011 NASCAR Whelen All-American Series (NWAAS), RyanWilsonMotorsports.com , the home of Randleman, North Carolina native Ryan Wilson has been re-launched featuring an updated look and a new personal blog straight from the winner of the Richard Petty’s Driver Search II.

The website will chronicle his 2011 racing season behind the wheel of the No. 12 Randolph Bank Toyota Camry and feature updates, results, a dedicated Fan Zone, a Twitter feed and more. The website was designed and built by Speed Media in collaboration between them and Knight Motorsports Management (KMM), Wilson’s management team.

“The new website looks great,” said Wilson, who will kick-off his 2011 racing season at Caraway (N.C.) Speedway on Sunday, March 13th. “Kurt from Speed Media and Chris (Knight of Knight Motorsports Management) put a lot of time and dedication into the new site thriving to bring me closer to the Motorsports community and more importantly my fans.”

He added, “We’re not done with the website yet, we’re going to use the new site to our advantage. We have some exciting announcements coming soon, so I’m hoping everyone will keep clicking over to RyanWilsonMotorsports.com to find out what’s happening.”

In addition to running a full NASCAR Whelen All-American Series schedule at Caraway, Wilson is expected to expand his resume into the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards. Through the trial and tribulations of the Richard Petty’s Driver Search, Wilson outdueled his other competitors awarding him a shot to qualify in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards at the historic Rockingham (N.C.) Speedway last October.

After starting 19th, Wilson in the No. 15 Richard Petty’s Driver Search Dodge Charger kept his nose clean, earned the respect of his competitors and took the checkered flag in a respectable and noteworthy 14th position.

In addition to racing at Caraway (N.C.) Speedway and a limited ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule, Wilson will also compete in Late Model stock car events at Ace (N.C.) Speedway and other selected Late Model contests.

Affordable marketing partnership(s) are still available with Ryan Wilson Motorsports for the entire 2011 NASCAR Whelen All-American Series season and a partial ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. For direct inquiries, please contact Chris Knight of Knight Motorsports Management at 239.834.9797 or chris@chrisknightpr.com.

For the latest on Ryan Wilson, Ryan Wilson Motorsports and the No. 12 Randolph Bank Toyota Camry, please visit RyanWilsonMotorsports.com .

Visit Randolph Bank, the home of extra-mile banking online at Randolphbank.com. http://www.randolphbank.com/

HUNT BROTHERS PIZZA TEAMS WITH KEVIN HARVICK INC. TO SPONSOR 2011 NASCAR NATIONWIDE SERIES & TRUCK SERIES TEAMS

By
Official Release
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Drivers Kevin Harvick and Elliott Sadler to Carry the Hunt Brothers Pizza Colors on the Track

KERNERSVILLE N.C. (February 7, 2011) – The 2011 NASCAR season is quickly approaching, and Hunt Brothers® Pizza already has reason to celebrate. In a partnership with Kevin Harvick Inc. (KHI), Hunt Brothers Pizza will be the primary sponsor for two of NASCAR’s most successful and influential drivers, Kevin Harvick and Elliott Sadler.

KHI was founded in 2001 by Kevin Harvick and his wife, DeLana. The couple originally created the team as an outlet for Harvick to win his first Truck Series race, but it soon became much more. After 10 years of racing, the organization has grown into one of the premier racing teams in NASCAR. This season will mark the fourth year for Hunt Brothers Pizza serving as a primary sponsor in NASCAR. The company could not be more thrilled about joining one of the sport’s strongest teams.

“Expanding our strategic partnership with NASCAR through KHI provides an incredible platform for Hunt Brothers Pizza to increase our brand exposure and our consumer reach through the racing team’s significant fan base,” says Scott Hunt, CEO for Hunt Brothers Pizza. “We’re excited to be a part of KHI, and we are looking forward to a winning NASCAR season led by the all-star driving team of Kevin Harvick and Elliott Sadler.”

Hunt Brothers Pizza will serve as a primary sponsor for the KHI No. 2 and No. 4 Nationwide Series entries, with Kevin Harvick and Elliott Sadler behind the wheel. Hunt Brothers Pizza will also be represented as primary sponsor of the KHI No. 2 Chevrolet in the Truck Series, with drivers Harvick and Sadler. Additionally, Hunt Brothers Pizza will join Harvick as an associate sponsor for the full 2011 season on Harvick’s No. 29 Richard Childress Racing (RCR) Sprint Cup Series car. Hunt Brothers Pizza will be represented on Harvick’s uniform and have logo placement on the car.

“Kevin Harvick Inc. is excited to partner with Hunt Brothers Pizza to create a unique sponsorship experience for both parties,” said KHI co-owner Kevin Harvick. “Our two organizations share similar cultural values and a winning spirit-which is sure to translate into some big wins on and off the track for both companies.”

Harvick began his racing career at the tender age of seven, racing go-carts to satisfy his need for speed, which eventually led to racing cars and his incredible career in NASCAR. In no time, Harvick was on an outstanding winning streak where he still remains today, finishing the 2010 season with 10 wins in all three of NASCAR’s three elite series.

When Harvick thought about making additions to his racing team in 2010, Elliott Sadler was an obvious choice. After climbing behind the wheel of KHI cars and trucks in 2010, Sadler’s five top-10 finishes, two pole awards and win at Pocono (Pa.) Raceway in June solidified his spot for 2011 at KHI.

Hunt Brothers Pizza and KHI kick off the NASCAR season April 23, 2011, at the Nashville Superspeedway with Sadler driving the KHI No. 2 Nationwide Series Car. The Hunt Brothers Pizza sponsorship with KHI also includes special NASCAR-related promotions, on-track giveaways and other special events.

For more information about the Hunt Brothers Pizza NASCAR sponsorships, visit www.hbpRacing.com.

 

About Hunt Brothers Pizza:

With more than 6,000 locations in 28 states, Hunt Brothers® Pizza is the nation’s largest brand of made-to-order pizza in the convenience store industry. Perfect for today’s on-the-go lifestyle, Hunt Brothers Pizza offers regular, thin crust, and breakfast pizzas with All Toppings No Extra Charge®, plus the Hunt Brothers® Wings in Southern Style and Hot ‘n Spicy flavors. Family owned and operated for over 40 years and headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., the company provides all of the food products, marketing programs, equipment and training for convenience stores to operate their own turnkey pizza program.

For additional information, please visit www.huntbrotherspizza.com or call (800) 453-3675.

About Kevin Harvick Inc.:

Kevin Harvick Inc. (KHI) enters 2011 celebrating 10 years of NASCAR racing. From the start, co-owners Kevin and DeLana Harvick set a goal to become leaders within the industry. With two Truck Series championships to their credit, the organization has built a reputation of integrity and competitiveness within the NASCAR community. KHI is housed in an over 80,000 sq. ft. facility located in Kernersville, N.C. This season, the organization will field three full-time NASCAR Camping World Truck Series teams and two full-time NASCAR Nationwide Series teams, competing for the drivers and owners championships in each series. With a roster comprised of both up-and-coming and veteran championship-caliber drivers, KHI continues to establish itself as one of the top teams in NASCAR competition. For more information about KHI and its teams, please visit www.KevinHarvickInc.com.

LABONTE AND JTG DAUGHERTY RACING SPREAD WORD ABOUT SIX-YEAR-OLD’S RACE OF HER LIFE AS SHE BATTLES LEUKEMIA

By
Official Release
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CORNELIUS, N.C. (February 7, 2011) – This week NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams are hurrying to get equipment and cars loaded to leave for Daytona Beach, Fla. spending countless hours in preparation of the Mecca race of NASCAR.

As the Daytona 500 excitement builds on who will win arguably the race of the year, six-year-old Jordan Jemsek is looking for someone who will help her win the race of her life. Little Jordan is in the fight for her life against Acute Myeloblastic Leukemia (AML). A bone marrow transplant is Jordan’s only chance to win this fight.

In the midst of JTG Daugherty Racing’s Daytona team meeting led by Tad Geschickter, Bobby Labonte and crew chief Frank Kerr, team member Joey McCarthy told everyone in the room Jordan’s story he read in the Charlotte Observer. It touched him because he has a child Jordan’s age.

“We want to do anything we can to spread the word about Jordan and encourage people to get tested to see if they could be a possible match,” McCarthy said.

As McCarthy passionately told Jordan’s story, everyone immediately wanted to help somehow. Labonte and the JTG Daugherty Racing team have coordinated a special visit to see Jordan at Presbyterian Hemby Children’s Hospital today in hopes of lifting her spirits as well as her mom Kay.

“We’re going to see Jordan and find out how we can help her and others,” Labonte said. “They are looking for a match for her and it is getting close. We’re hoping to raise awareness for her and encourage people to visit www.GetSwabbed.org to find out more about bone marrow donation and how to get tested. We’ve all been touched by this. We’re going to the hospital to lift her spirits.”

For the 33rd annual Shootout on Saturday, February 12th, Reese Towpower® has donated the TV panel to place a photo of Jordan’s smiling face on the No. 47 Toyota and the website www.GetSwabbed.org to raise awareness on how to get tested in hopes of finding a bone marrow match for Jordan and others.

“We’re thankful for Reese Towpower’s support in our efforts to help Jordan,” Labonte said.

In a phone conversation with Jordan’s mom Kay on Thursday, she said they were looking forward to the team’s visit with Jordan.

“You are angels that were sent to us,” Kay said.

“People have been so kind to us,” Kay said in a recent interview with the Charlotte Observer. “There are not enough samples in the bank right now. If a match is not found for Jordan, my understanding is it could be used for somebody else and save somebody else’s life. It will be in Jordan’s honor. It’s all for good.”

On Saturday, March 5th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET, a bone marrow drive will be held in honor of Jordan at St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church (3016 Providence Rd., Charlotte, NC 28211 in the Church Ministry Center Building, rooms D & E on the first floor). For more information, visit http://www.dkmsamericas.org/drives/help-save-jordan-and-others.
To order a quick and easy cheek-swab home test kit, visit www.marrow.org.

With Jordan’s drive and the home test kit, even if you’re not a perfect match for Jordan, your name gets added to the list and you may just be the perfect match for someone else out there.

Canadian Maryeve Dufault Ready to Tackle Daytona in ARCA Season Opener

By
Official Release
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DAYTONA BEACH, Florida (February 7, 2011) – – Testing is now complete and ARCA Rookie Maryeve Dufault is ready to put the knowledge gained to use in the ARCA season opener at Daytona International Speedway on February 12.  Dufault, who previously competed in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, will attempt to qualify the No. 12 Dodge Charger entry for Tony Marks Racing (TMR), the newest multi-car operation in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards.  

 “I am really looking forward to the race weekend at Daytona,” said Dufault.  “We have done quite a bit of testing over the last few months and after our test at Daytona in January I feel quite prepared for this weekend.”  The team ran the three-day open test at Daytona in January and Dufault delivered solid results putting the No. 12 Dodge Charger 28th out of 58 competitors with a fast lap of 49.203 seconds/ 182.916 miles per hour. 

“I was pretty happy with our test and how the car felt in the draft,” explained Dufault when asked about Daytona. “I had so much information from the team and other drivers about the draft, and how the car would handle differently so I felt prepared when I actually got in the draft for the first time. The car was very well balanced and stable and I thought it was really exciting.  It was actually fun and I really enjoyed the drafting.  I know that it will be a little different in the race, but I think with the testing and preparation that we have done that I will be ready.” 

Dufault has reams of experience behind her effort with veteran crew chief Larry Moore at the helm of the No. 12 TMR Dodge Charger. Moore was the crew chief for 2008 ARCA Champion Justin Allgaier who qualified 30th at the 2008 Daytona event and finished in second place. 

“It will certainly be a challenge since we will be attempting to make the race on qualified time,” explained Moore.  “It looks like there will be quite a few cars so we need to be prepared and have the No. 12 ready to go when we arrive.  Maryeve has shown real promise in her testing sessions at New Smyrna and Daytona so I feel confident that she’ll get qualified and make the race.  Right now our main objective is to get this car qualified on Friday (Feb. 11) and make the race and then finish well on Saturday.”

Dufault, who caught the eye of the Dodge Motorsport representative while racing for the Dodge Quebec Dealers during the 2010 season, will be serving as the Dodge Motorsport development driver for the 2011 ARCA season.  “I am very thankful to Dodge and Tony Marks for their support and for giving me this opportunity,” said Dufault.  “Dodge has a great history supporting drivers such as Brad Keslowski and Kurt Busch and Tony is putting 110% effort behind this team, so I feel flattered to be in this position.  I am really excited to get the season underway and bring home a good result for Dodge and Tony Marks Racing this weekend.”

Dufault and the TMR team will attempt to qualify the No. 12 Dodge Charger on Friday, February 11 at 2 p.m. and then race in the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona on Saturday, February 12, 2011.  The race will be televised live on SPEED at 4:30 p.m. ET.

PHOTO CAPTIONS:  1) Maryeve Dufault in 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards drivers uniform. (Photo Credit: Michael Voorhees; High resolution images available upon request).

About Tony Marks Racing (TMR):

Tony Marks Racing was founded in 2009 through the passion for racing of team owner and former driver Tony Marks.  Marks is the successful owner of TMT, Inc., a logistics, warehousing and packaging company with over 400 employees whose
customers are mainly comprised of Fortune 100 companies. 

Marks began his racing career in 1985 getting behind the wheel of everything from
drag racers, Dirt Late Models, SCCA Formula Fords, USAC F2000 Open Wheel and ARCA cars.  Tony personally raced until 2005 amassing numerous wins, championships and track records along the way until he  then changed his focus from driver to owner and began building racing programs for his children Jared (16 years old) and Rachel (13 years old).  Under the auspices of TMR, Jared began his racing career in 2002 in quarter midgets and now competes in late model, CRA, ASA and ARCA Series events while Rachel continues her development program racing quarter midgets and Bandoleros.

TMR has been at the forefront of charitable giving through its’  “Driving Against Hunger” and “Million Meal Challenge” race programs which have raised over $200,000 for Forgotten Harvest in 2010 at the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and NASCAR Nationwide Series events at Michigan International Speedway. 

For the NASCAR events TMR along with TMT, Inc. partnered with Forgotten Harvest for the “Million Meal Challenge For Our Kids” which helps to bridge the hunger gap while schools are out of session and feeds 20,000 children per day in the Detroit metro area. Forgotten Harvest was significantly displayed on the entry of Chase Austin during both the Truck and Nationwide events at Michigan International Speedway along with logos of “Million Meal Challenge” sponsors Walgreen’s, United Race Group, Holyfield’s Choice Alka-Power Water and Vitamin Spice.  Evander
Holyfield was also instrumental in the challenge, acting as Grand Marshall for the August race and announcing his “Fight Against Hunger” on behalf of Forgotten Harvest. 

As the first race team to “Drive Against Hunger” through their partnership with Forgotten Harvest, TMR plans to continue their alliance with Forgotten Harvest and once again “Drive Against Hunger” during the 2011 season.

For additional information on TMT, Inc. please visit; tmtcompanies.net.

Kenny Wallace Proves A Man of Many Talents

By
SM Staff
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Kenny Wallace, known as the ‘Hermanator’ and for his unusual laugh that he sports so often on his SPEED TV gig, is indeed a man of many talents. His newest talent is as stand in for Roush Fenway Racing driver Matt Kenseth, who is expecting a new baby with wife Katie to be delivered right around the Daytona 500.

Wallace has announced that he is ready to step into Kenseth’s No. 17 Cup car for practice and qualifying during Speedweeks at Daytona International Speedway if needed.  Wallace’s first chance at stepping into the car will be for practice on February 11th in preparation for the Bud Shootout.

“I got a call last night from (Roush Fenway Racing GM) Robbie Reiser, and he said Katie Kenseth is due to give birth to their second baby in a couple of weeks,” Wallace said on the radio show Sirius Speedway. “They want me to be on standby in case she goes into labor before the Bud Shootout or Gatorade Duel.”

“Matt will run the Daytona 500 no matter what, but they want me there in case they need me earlier in the week,” Wallace continued. “Even though it’s probably because I’m the same size as Matt and will fit into the seat easily, it took me about a quarter of a second to agree.”

In addition to being on baby watch, Wallace is also preparing for his talents to start his own upcoming race season.  He will be driving full-time for RAB Racing in the Nationwide Series, marking his 22nd year in that Series in 2011.

“I’ve been nervous since the final 2010 Nationwide Series race at Homestead trying to find the right fit for next year and now I can finally sleep at night,” Wallace said of his new ride. “My goal was to find a team with whom I could be competitive and I believe I have found that with RAB Racing.”

“I’m ready to go for 2011,” Wallace continued.  “I have known Robby (Benton) and watched him grow his team for the past few years. The relationship with Toyota Racing Development (TRD) is huge and will allow me to be able to work with at least three other Toyota teams, including my brother Rusty (Wallace) and gain valuable information that will help us with the Nationwide program at RAB Racing next year.”

Robby Benton, RAB Racing Co-Owner could not agree with Wallace more.  “Having our plans in place before the Christmas holiday was great for team morale and will provide us with ample time to prepare for what we need to do for the upcoming season.”

“We’ve made significant changes at RAB Racing over the last few months in an effort to elevate our program,” Benton continued.  “Our alliance with Toyota, the relationship we have with TRD and now adding Kenny to the mix, will bring some depth to our program.”

Benton also acknowledged that Wallace, with his many talents, will bring his own sense of style and personality to the team.

“It also helps tremendously having a driver with Kenny’s notoriety,” Benton said.  “People love him and hopefully we’ll be able to reinvigorate his fan base.”

Wallace will be piloting the No. 09 Toyota Camry for RAB Racing in the Nationwide Series.  To date, he and the team have secured several sponsors, including the University of Northwestern Ohio,  Federated Auto Parts, and Family Farmers, the latter being a coalition of soybean and corn farmers.

These sponsors are on board for at least 16 races as primary sponsors.  As with most race teams, however, Wallace and Benton are still looking to fill their sponsorship dance card for the remaining 18 races of the Nationwide season.

“We have a lot going on within our marketing department right now,” Benton said.  “I feel pretty confident about having all 34 races sold before the Daytona event in February.”

Lest anyone think that Wallace has just been waiting around for the NASCAR season to start, he has already been busy at the track in Daytona.  He participated in the Rolex 24, racing under the banner of TRG and the Children’s Tumor Foundation.

Wallace teamed up for the 24 hour race with fellow drivers Ron Yarab, Pierre Bourque, and Daniel Graeff.  While the team sought success on the track, they were also seeking to raise more than $1 million for the Foundation.

“I am really honored to help represent the Children’s Tumor Foundation, it’s very near and dear to my heart,” Wallace said prior to the event. “Along the way I’m a competitor, a winning race driver, and it’s fun to team up with a winning organization like TRG.”

Wallace and company finished 20th overall in the Rolex 24, after starting in the 24th position.

In addition to the Rolex 24, Wallace has been showing off his dirt track racing talent, kicking off his season for 2011.  He has seen action at East Bay Raceway Park in Tampa, Florida and will next travel the circuit from Volusia to Eldora Speedways throughout the year.

Wallace’s final talent will emerge later in 2011 after the finale of his NASCAR Nationwide season, when he once again assumes the duties of cruise director.  Wallace will sponsor yet again his ‘Kenny Cruise 2011″ on the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line.

Wallace will socialize on the Allure of the Seas ship, which will cruise the western Caribbean for a week.  Kenny’s 2011 cruise will leave Ft. Lauderdale on December 4th, 2011 traveling to Haiti, Jamaica and Mexico, before returning back to Florida on December 11th.

From Rolex and NASCAR Nationwide racing to filling in for an expectant Cup driver and father, as well as social directing on his own cruise, the ‘Hermanator’ is indeed a man of many talents.  And just in case that is not enough Wallace for the year, fans can also check out his famous laugh on Race Day by the Home Depot and Victory Lane on SPEED TV for yet another season.

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