TOYOTA LAUNCHES LITERACY PROGRAM FOR HISPANIC AND OTHER IMMIGRANT FAMILIES IN OAKLAND

Contributes $3 million to Expand Program to Five Additional Cities Nationwide

April 25, 2008 - Oakland, CA - Toyota today announced that four Oakland elementary schools will be among the newest sites for its successful Toyota Family Literacy Program (TFLP). TFLP - the first nationwide program of its kind to focus on the needs of Hispanic and other immigrant families - is coordinated by the National Center for Family Literacy (NCFL), the country's leading advocate for family literacy.
Toyota has contributed $600,000 to fund the program at International Community School, Garfield Elementary, Manzanita SEED and Manzanita Community. All four schools are located in the Oakland Unified School District, and average between 46 percent and 78 percent Hispanic enrollment.
TFLP - which got its start in 2003 and is now functioning in 20 cities across the U.S. - aims to increase basic language and literacy skills among Hispanic and other immigrant families, and provide parents with the skills they need to help their children succeed in school. The program specifically serves children in kindergarten to third grade and their parents. TFLP is unique in that it incorporates NCFL's multicultural family literacy model, which combines key components including: ESL courses, children's education, parenting education, Parent and Child Together (PACT) activities, and computer-literacy instruction. Since its inception, Toyota's commitment to the program exceeds $35 million.
In addition to launching the program at these four schools, the funding will allow NCFL to provide comprehensive support for training, educational materials and assistance at each site. Oakland Unified School District is working hand-in-hand with NCFL to implement the family literacy program.
Along with Oakland, four other cities are part of the latest expansion of the Toyota Family Literacy Program: Salt Lake City, Utah; Burien/Seattle, Wash.; Mesa, Ariz.; and Miami, Fla. A total of 230 school districts submitted applications for the five spots.
"Early literacy is the cornerstone of our effort to ensure that all Oakland Unified students graduate prepared for success in college and the workplace," said Vincent Matthews, State Administrator for the Oakland Unified School District. "We are committed to ensuring that every student, regardless of socioeconomic circumstance, ethnic background or language barrier, receives the academic foundation they need to succeed. By bringing parents into the classroom to learn alongside their children, the Toyota Family Literacy Program moves us closer to the day when this goal becomes reality."

Results from the TFLP programs already implemented include:

• Significant literacy gains by adults, the majority of which improved their literacy scores by one or more levels
• Ratings for children in the program that exceeded peers in areas including academic performance, motivation to learn, attendance, classroom behavior, involvement in classroom activities, and other areas
• 92% of parents stating they're better able to help their child with homework
• 91% of parents stating their child's grades have improved
• Waiting lists at the majority of program sites due to high demand

"By partnering with Toyota, NCFL has nurtured a proven formula of research and delivery of family literacy services that not only works for the participants, but for the betterment of the communities," said Sharon Darling, president and founder of NCFL. "And, we're proud to say, our path to success here in Oakland has been set by the impressive gains made by thousands of TFLP participants in family literacy programs nationwide."
"Due to the incredible commitment of NCFL, the Toyota Family Literacy Program has helped improve the literacy skills of thousands of families in diverse communities across the U.S.," said Patricia Pineda, group vice president, philanthropy, at Toyota Motor North America. "We're excited to bring the program to Oakland, and look forward to making even more positive and lasting contributions to students and families."
 

JUICE ENERGY INC. ANNOUNCES SPONSORSHIP OF FOURTH ANNUAL GREEN GRAND PRIX

DANICA PATRICK WINS INDY JAPAN 300 AT TWIN RING MOTEGI

KEVIN HARVICK

NASCAR KEVIN HARVICK EXPLORING HIS OPTIONS IN NHRA DRAG RACING

REVISED SCHEDULE NASCAR SPRINT CUP SERIES TEST

RICK BAKER
MAYOR OF
ST. PETERSBURG

CITY OF ST. PETERSBURG AND ANDRETTI GREEN PROMOTIONS ANNOUNCE FOUR-YEAR EXTENSION

ST. PETERSBURG, FLA. April 07, 2008 - Representatives from Andretti Green Promotions (AGP), promoters of the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, and the City of St. Petersburg today announced a multi-year extension of the existing agreement between the two organizations to ensure the future of the race through 2013.
In addition, AGP also announced tentative agreements for multi-year extensions of partnerships with American Honda Motor Company, on behalf of its Honda and Acura brands, the IndyCar Series and the American Le Mans Series.
The current contract between the City and AGP runs through next year's Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg and the agreement announced today provides for a four-year extension of the existing contract. Dates for future events, including the 2009 date, have not been announced. It is anticipated the 2009 date will be announced later this year.
Now in its fourth year, the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg is the first street-circuit race on the 2008 IndyCar Series schedule and is run on a 1.8-mile, 14-turn course through the streets of St. Petersburg.

Quote from Kevin Savoree, Managing Director, Andretti Green Promotions
"Since the inception of this event, our success has been largely due to the cooperative partnership AGP enjoys with the City of St. Petersburg, American Honda, the IndyCar Series and the American Le Mans Series. We had a very big vision for this event when we first presented it to the City in 2004 and to be able to announce this agreement today is not only a milestone for our organization, but a great day for racing fans in the St. Petersburg area."

Quote from Mayor Rick Baker, City of St. Petersburg
"The Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg has emerged as the city's weekend signature event. As another great day of racing begins today, we are looking forward to many more years to come."

Quote from John Mendel, Executive Vice President, American Honda Motor Company
"As the inaugural title sponsor of this event American Honda is thrilled to continue to bring the excitement of the American Le Mans Series and IndyCar racing to the people of St. Petersburg and the Tampa Bay area."

Quote from Scott Atherton, President/CEO, American Le Mans Series
"We believe that the Acura Sports Car Challenge, as part of the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, has become one of the signature races on the American Le Mans Series schedule. In addition to the setting, community support and organization of the race being exceptional, we believe St. Petersburg fans have truly come to identify with the excitement and world-class cars, drivers and teams the American Le Mans Series brings to the event."

Quote from Tony George, Founder and CEO, Indy Racing League
"St. Petersburg has become a destination event on the IndyCar Series schedule," said Tony George, founder & CEO of the IRL. "Mayor Baker and all the people of St. Petersburg are wonderful hosts and have done an incredible job embracing this event. We are pleased that the city and AGP are continuing with this picturesque event."
 

INDYCAR SERIES TEAMS UP WITH COCA-COLA

Coca-Cola to Become Official Sponsor of IndyCar Series Through 2010

INDIANAPOLIS, April 06, 2008 – The IndyCar Series announced a major multi-year agreement with Coca-Cola North America that will make Coca-Cola, one of the world’s most recognized brands, an official sponsor of the IndyCar Series through 2010.
The agreement builds on Coca-Cola North America’s relationship with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indianapolis 500, which dates back decades. Through this expanded association, Coca-Cola will develop retail marketing programs to help enhance the IndyCar racing experience for fans throughout the season.
This new partnership follows the announcement last year of a 10-year sponsorship agreement between Coca-Cola North America and International Speedway Corporation (ISC), owner of five tracks on the IndyCar Series schedule. Coca-Cola also has relationships with several other tracks on the schedule, making it the leading soft drink at the majority of the tracks where the IndyCar Series will race in 2008.
“Coca-Cola is truly a global brand, and we’re thrilled to have them on board with the IndyCar Series,” said Terry Angstadt, president of the Indy Racing League’s Commercial Division. “Coca-Cola’s enormous brand recognition and marketing capabilities create some very exciting activation opportunities as we go forward. This announcement also adds to the sponsorship momentum that we’ve been building over the last several months. The growing number of partnerships we’re making with quality organizations like Coca-Cola and others is really helping to build an exciting future for the IndyCar Series.”
“This new association with the IndyCar Series allows Coca-Cola to build on our long and successful history with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indianapolis 500,” said Beatriz Perez, senior vice president, Integrated Marketing, Coca-Cola North America. “By joining forces with the entire IndyCar Series, Coca-Cola will be able to create customized programs designed to bring IndyCar fans closer to their favorite sport.”
 

CAP HENRY READIES FOR 2008 / SPRINT CARS

“Team Prepares For Challenging Year”

Bellevue, Ohio – March, 2008 - Cap Henry and The Henry MotorSports Team prepares for a tough and challenging season in 2008. Having spent the winter searching for and acquiring sponsors, the team is ready to start the ‘08 sprint car season.
Coming off the 2007 season with Rookie-of-the-Year honors and top ten finishes in the points at Attica Raceway Park and Fremont Speedway, has brought a lot of attention to 17-year-old. He and team members have been interviewed twice in the past couple weeks on Dwight Allen's Racing World Radio show as well being asked to come back on throughout the season. A local newspaper is also preparing to do an article on Henry and the Sprint Car world
Dwight Allen described Cap "as one of the top 5 young drivers" in the Northern Ohio area, which is quite a compliment being that some of the best dirt racers in racing have cut their teeth on the local tracks he is running. He further complimented him as being not only very mature on the track, though off the track as well, especially during interviews which is a plus in any sponsors book.
A new look in 2008 will see the car and race rig with the return of long time friend and sponsor, Tina Fleming of T-N-T graphics. The paint scheme has unique vibrant color combinations, which have been highly talked about already on radio, web, and these past weekends Northern Ohio Sprint Car Show.



As the team heads into 2008 they have two cars ready for the young man to acquire greater experience as well as having just purchased a Gaerte powered midget to go to the 2009 Chili Bowl. The team will focus locally on the 305 division with their all new Maxim compliments of Maxim racing as well as 410 and 360 shows with their Eagle chassis from last year with a special built Level Performance 360 Ford power plant partially provided by Ludwig Propane.
When not competing locally The Henry MotorSports Team intends to run some 360 winged shows at Limaland and non winged shows at both Waynesfield Motorsports Park and the famed 1-69 Gas City Speedway in Indiana . Keeping the schedule jam packed Henry and his team will look for venues to get the midget on the track in preparation for the 2008 Rumble in Ft. Wayne as well as the 2009 Chili Bowl.
With the goals set high in 2008, The Henry MotorSports team will look to break into victory lane this year in the sprint car ranks as well as further developing Cap's skills on and off the track.
Cap would like to thank all the sponsor that have come on board for 2008, Kear's Speed Shop, Ramshackle Supplies, T-N-T Graphics, G-Force Racing, Race Coveralls, J&H Concrete, Bell Racing, Maxim Racing, Butler Built, Green Filters, C&R Hobbies, Henry MotorSports Inc., Level Performance, Ludwig Propane, Missler Industries, Aim sports, Embroidery Unlimited, D& D Collision, GME steering, and Stewarts Custom Coating.
The Henry Motorsports Team continues to look for sponsors for the 2008 racing season. For more information and sponsorship opportunities on Cap Henry and the Henry Motorsports Team, please contact Team Manager Kit Henry at 419-217-0685, 419-217-2441 or via e-mail at kit@henrymotorsports.com. For up-to-date news releases, race schedules, results and photos, please visit www.CapHenryRacing.com.
 

TICKETS FOR NASCAR SPRINT PIT CREW CHALLENGE ON SALE NOW

SCION REVEALS HAKO COUPE CONCEPT AT THE 2008 NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

March 20, 2008 - New York - Scion unveiled its Hako Coupe Concept vehicle at a press conference at the New York International Auto Show.
Scion's Hako Coupe was developed by Tokyo Design Division, which studied global, youth-inspired trends. Japanese and American youth cultures often influence each other and are interpreted with a unique twist. The Hako Coupe Concept was inspired by the iconic xB and the emergence of American vintage style among young Tokyo trendsetters.
"Scion's Hako Coupe Concept embodies a distinct global


Scion Reveals Hako Coupe Concept In New York. Photo By: Joe Polimeni/Scion.

perspective on today's youth," said Jack Hollis, Scion vice president. "This type of forward thinking complements the Scion philosophy of intently listening to our customers and being willing to take risks to help us see where our brand should be. We took the xB's iconic boxy shape and explored something more vivacious, yet just as emotionally appealing. This concept is the sporty version of a box."
Tokyo Design developed the Hako Coupe with classic American coupes in mind. The car's geometric profile conveys a powerful stance in a compact and bold package. Its trapezoidal LED headlights lie parallel with a large and aggressive, rectangular upper grille. The lower rectangular grille anchors the front fascia and continues to communicate the Hako's aggressive attitude. Round fog lights, symmetrically placed high on the front bumper, have integrated turn signals.
The Hako's silhouette is accentuated by slim, race-car-inspired side mirrors that also feature integrated turn signals. Powerful, flared fenders add dimension and contrast to the concept's boxy shape and smooth surface planes. The Hako concept hugs the road with custom 18-inch deep dish five-spoke wheels and tires with a "Scion" custom tread.
The Hako Coupe features a vertical windshield as the concept sits upright and ready to attack the road. A high linear beltline along with a blackened and chopped greenhouse seamlessly wrap around the rear to provide a mysterious profile. As an example of potential personalization, the concept is equipped with a flat, panorama roof that features a random, barcode-like pattern that can be seen on the exterior and from the interior.
The rear features LED taillights that echo the shape of the headlights. To complete the package, the rear bumper has an integrated fog and back up light on the left and exhaust on the right.
Inside, the Hako is accented with orange and metallic detailing that exudes a modern environment with entertainment possibilities. The front and rear seats are covered with urethane and rubber-like upholstery for easy cleaning. The contemporary front bucket seats flow to the floor and incorporate a geometric design on the seatback. The seats are separated by a center console that features a large storage crevice for storing magazines, cell phones, and other small items. Two cockpit-like rear seats also share a storage crevice.


Media try to get a glimpse of the interior of the Hako Coupe concept vehicle after it was unveiled at the New York International Auto Show Wednesday, March 19, 2008. The Scion Hako Coupe was inspired by the emergence of American vintage style and developed by the Tokyo Design Division, which studied global, youth-inspired trends. Photo By: Joe Polimeni/Scion.

The orange driver's seat has a gaming theme. Instrumentation and warning lights cascade from the art inspired instrument panel to the steering wheel. The shifter, located on the center console, resembles a large joystick. On the steering wheel is a simple button to start the engine and a track-ball type control for the Hako's entertainment system located on the passenger dash. The entertainment system consists of two video monitor screens mounted on the dash for radio, video, and music capabilities. Users can upload their videos and music through a Bluetooth® connection. The front passenger controls the system using a large rollerball mounted on the center of the dash. A black seat differentiates the front passenger area.
Video monitors located on each door and on each side of the rear seating area project distorted fish-eye images from orange filtered cameras mounted beneath the A-pillars. While the vehicle is parked the driver and passenger can edit the scenes captured by the cameras to show their friends where they have been and perhaps even post the clip online for others to see.
"As you know, polarizing style fits in well with our lineup," said Hollis. "And of course we love a good box. We'll listen to the feedback from this concept to help us determine how our brand could evolve and grow over the next five years."

SCION HAKO COUPE CONCEPT VEHICLE
PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

DIMENSIONS (inches)
Overall Length: 145.7
Overall Width: 68.1 without side mirrors
74.0 including side mirrors
Overall Height: 57.5
Wheelbase: 94.5
Ground clearance: 4.0
Wheels: 18-inch alloy wheels
Tire Size: 225/45 R18
Seating Capacity: 4
 

"DALE" NOMINATED FOR TWO SPORTS EMMY® AWARDS

WELCOME, N.C. March 15, 2008 - DALE, the definitive documentary of the legendary Dale Earnhardt produced in 2007 by CMT Films and NASCAR Media Group, has been nominated for two Sports Emmy® Awards by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.
DALE was nominated in the categories of Outstanding Sports Documentary and Outstanding Music Composition/Direction/Lyrics.
“It’s an honor for DALE to be nominated for Sports Emmys in two different categories and everyone at NASCAR Media Group and CMT Films should be very proud,” said Richard Childress, president and CEO of Richard Childress Racing. “Dale Earnhardt’s life was, and still is, an inspiration to millions of fans all over the world and DALE did a great job of capturing who he was as a man, a father, and a champion.”
DALE, narrated by Paul Newman, made its theatrical debut in February 2007 in Daytona Beach , Fla. , and was shown in select markets corresponding with that season’s NASCAR Cup Series schedule. It made its television debut in September on CMT before being released as a DVD package in November and has since sold more than 800,000 copies. It is believed to be the highest-selling sports DVD ever.
The nominations for the 29th Annual Sports Emmy ® Awards were announced March 13 at the IMG World Congress of Sports at the St. Regis Hotel in Monarch Bay/Dana Point, California. The Awards will be presented April 28 in New York City at the Frederick P. Rose Hall, Home of Jazz at Lincoln Center located in the Time Warner Center.
 

CAMS GIVES GREEN LIGHT TO NEW PORSCHE GT3 CUP CHALLENGE

MARCH 13, 2008 - The Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (CAMS) has approved the transfer of the current Porsche Drivers Challenge Category Management Agreement (CMA) from the Australian GT Sport Car Group (AGTSCG) to Challenge Cup Promoters (CCP).
The transfer of the CMA will see the creation of a new low-cost Porsche series, the 'Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Australia' for 996-series GT3 Cup Cars, GT3 road cars and previous generation 911 race cars.
The national series will provide for owners committed to quality racing without the professional price tag and will, for 2008, track share with the already established Australian GT Championship.
CAMS CEO, Graham Fountain says that "CAMS is pleased to endorse the transfer of CMA from the AGTSCG to the CCP and believe the new category is a great initiative to secure involvement from some of the older Porsche race cars in Australia, and ultimately increase participation in the sport".
"The Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge category will track share with the GT Sport Car Category for three of their four events in 2008 with the intention to secure six stand alone rounds in 2009," said Fountain.
"This is a further and clear example of us building a sustainable pathway within the sport and proactively addressing increased participation at the grass-roots, club level of the sport" he added.
The Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Australia will be modelled off the international endorsed Porsche series of the same name and aims to provide a stepping stone for Porsche competitors between club level racing and national elite Championships such as the Carrera Cup.
Sven Burchartz, licensee of the Challenge Cup Promoters says, "The Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge is a great opportunity for drivers who are looking for a sustainable way to compete in a Porsche without the budget needed for elite level competition."
"I am really excited about the future of Porsche racing in Australia and looking forward to sharing the track with the Australian GT Championship -- while looking forward to competing in a stand- alone series in 2009," Burchartz added.

CREDIT: cams.com.au
 

CRANFIELD LAUNCHES NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH WILLIAMS F1

MARCH 13, 2008 - Oxford - A unique partnership has been announced between the Centre for Customised Executive Development at Cranfield School of Management and the Formula One team, Williams F1.
The partnership brings together Cranfield's expertise in management development with Williams F1's experience of delivering sustained performance in the most competitive of environments, Formula One motorsport. Organizations seeking innovative development for their executives can access a range of customised workshops that harness the combined expertise of both partners.
Mark Jenkins is Professor of Business Strategy at Cranfield School of Management, co-author of Performance at the Limit Business Lessons from Formula 1 Motor Racing and has been instrumental in developing the partnership with Williams. Mark, who has researched performance in Formula One for several years, said, "Formula One provides a powerful example where performance is achieved by unique combinations of people, finance and technologies. It encapsulates many of the challenges faced by today's organizations and their executives: challenges such as delivering high performance through team-work, accelerating speed to market, sustaining competitive advantage and enhancing innovation and creativity."
Bill Shedden, Director of Cranfield's Centre for Customised Executive Development, said, "This partnership between a School of Management and a business that operates under intense, and very public, competitive pressure generates new perspectives for developing executives in the key areas of leadership, innovation and high-performance. It is a collaboration that adds an exciting new dimension to the range of learning experiences we can offer our clients."
"We've long known that the ways in which we manufacture and market our primary product, Formula One racing cars, incorporates processes that have applicability to other businesses", says Frank Williams, Managing Director of Williams F1. "Through this partnership with Cranfield School of Management we hope to formalize and commercialize our knowledge and add genuine value to the companies and organizations that participate in the Cranfield program." Cranfield School of Management is a world-class university management school, renowned for its strong links with industry and business. It is committed to providing practical management solutions through a range of activities, including: postgraduate degree program, management development, research and consultancy. The Cranfield Centre for Customised Executive Development partners with over 60 corporate and public sector clients each year to improve individual and organizational performance. It is one of the largest providers of customised executive development in Europe. The School's website address is: www.cranfield.ac.uk/Com.

CREDIT: williams
 

CHANGE IN MANAGEMENT FOR SUZUKI WORLD RALLY TEAM

MARCH 12, 2008 - Akira Kawada (47) has regretfully resigned from his position in the Suzuki World Rally Team for personal reasons. Beginning with Rally Argentina and for the remainder of the 2008 season, his role as team manager will be taken over by Paul Wilding (39), long term associate of Suzuki Sport Japan.
Paul has a long history with Suzuki Sport having been involved in many of Suzuki's rally sport projects over many years, among them the chief coordination of Suzuki's debut year in the JWRC (2002), management of Suzuki's Asia-Pacific Rally Championship team (2002-2004) and the 2006 Suzuki JWRC team, team manager for multiple International Hill climb entries with the Suzuki WRC Team Principal, Nobuhiro 'Monster' Tajima, and numerous other rally specific advisory and assistance roles within the company over the past six years. His familiarity with the WRC, Suzuki Sport and its personnel, Japanese language skills and intimate understanding of Japanese culture and principals gained from experiences over the last 15 years will benefit the team greatly in their quest to complete their debut season in the WRC.
Akira Kawada joined the Suzuki World Rally Team at the end of 2007 and managed its entrance into the first full World Rally Championship season. "During our three debut events at Rallye Monte Carlo, Swedish Rally and Rally Mexico the team benefited greatly from Akira Kawada's wide WRC experience. We are very grateful for his contribution and his efforts", said team principal Nobuhiro Tajima. "It is unfortunate that for reasons personal to Kawada san and beyond our control we cannot continue our association with him for the remainder of the year. We wish him well in the future."



"It was quite a short association, but it was a great pleasure working with the team", stated Akira Kawada. For the remainder of the 2008 WRC season, he will return to his former occupation and work as a journalist again.
The entire Suzuki World Rally Team wishes him every success in his future endeavours.
 

ROAD AMERICA ADDS SPEED WORLD CHALLENGE TO AUGUST LINE-UP

Elkhart Lake, WI, March 12, 2008 - Road America has released a revised line-up for its Road Race Showcase, scheduled for August 7-10, 2008. Because of scheduling conflicts caused by the Indy Racing League and Champ Car World Series unification, it appears that Champ Car is unable to hold its Champ Car Grand Prix at Road America that weekend.
The showcase continues to highlight the American Le Mans Series in Saturday's Generac 500. This four-hour race will again culminate in a stunning sunset finale. Sunday's tentative line-up will feature the SPEED Pro Racing World Challenge GT & Touring Championships
According to George Bruggenthies, Road America president and general manager, "The SPEED World Challenge is always a big hit at Road America. We're pleased that we could pair them with the American Le Mans Series and further enhance the experience for our sports car fans."
In addition to the previously scheduled Star Mazda, Formula BMW and Skip Barber National Series, the Atlantic Series will double its show with two races on Saturday and Sunday. For open-wheel fans, these series have always provided fields of young, aggressive drivers whose ambitions fuel unpredictable finishes.
"Fans can count on a solid weekend of premiere, competitive racing," Bruggenthies stated, "It's going to be a full, four-day schedule with very few breaks in track action - one of the best values fans will find this season in road racing."
 

MARK MARTIN

MARK MARTIN, MCELREATH SELECTED AS INDUCTEES INTO TEXAS MOTOR SPORTS HALL OF FAME

Mark Martin And Jim McElreath, Along With Jimmie Johnson, Sam Hornish Jr. And Arie Luyendyk, To Be Honored April 2 During Annual Ceremony

FORT WORTH, Texas March 06, 2008 - NASCAR veteran driver Mark Martin and open-wheel star Jim McElreath have been selected as this year's inductees into the Texas Motor Sports Hall of Fame and will be honored April 2 at The Speedway Club at Texas Motor Speedway.
In addition, Texas Motor Speedway and Happy Hill Farm Academy announced today that Jimmie Johnson, the two-time defending NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion and defending Dickies 500 winner; Sam Hornish Jr., a three-time IndyCar Series champion and last season's Bombardier Learjet 550k winner; and Indy-car veteran Arie Luyendyk, who won the first nighttime Indy car race at Texas Motor Speedway in 1997, will also be honored with special awards during the ceremony.
McElreath and Martin will join previous inductees A.J. Foyt (2003), Johnny Rutherford (2003), Terry Labonte (2004), Lee Shepherd (2004), Kenny Bernstein (2005), Jim Hall (2005) and Eddie Hill (2006) into the Texas Motor Sports Hall of Fame.
McElreath, a native of Arlington, Texas, was inducted into the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame in 2002. McElreath began his rise in racing as a 17-year-old youngster running modified stock cars at the famed Devil's Bowl Speedway in Mesquite.
His open-wheel career began in 1961 in USAC, where he made 170 career starts. McElreath competed in his first Indianapolis 500 in 1962, finishing sixth. He would go on to record three top-five and six top-10 finishes in 15 starts in the Indianapolis 500. Through his illustrious career, McElreath competed in over 185 open-wheel events posting five victories, 48 top-five finishes and 22 podium finishes along with four poles. The 80-year-old also made four starts in what is now known as the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.
McElreath competed in the 1964 Daytona 500 alongside open-wheel stars Johnny Rutherford, A.J. Foyt and Parnelli Jones. Upon retiring from racing in 1983, McElreath and his wife, Shirley, reside in Arlington, where he works on restoring vintage open- wheel race cars and land development projects.
Martin, a native of Batesville, Ark., is in the midst of his 26th season in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and will once again compete on a part-time basis in 2008. Martin, who earlier this season made his 700th career start, has been a four-time series runner-up (1990, '94, '98, 2002) and has earned 35 victories and 41 poles. Martin's tie to Texas is the large amount of success he has enjoyed at Texas Motor Speedway, including becoming the first driver to win a Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series race at "The Great American Speedway!"
He won the inaugural Coca-Cola 300 Nationwide Series race in 1997 and followed that up with his first Sprint Cup win at TMS, capturing the Texas 500 in 1998.
In 14 Sprint Cup Series starts, Martin has posted one victory, five top-five and seven top- 10 finishes. In the Nationwide Series, he won three of the first four races held at Texas Motor Speedway (1997, '99, 2000) and has four top-five finishes in eight career starts.
The Bruton Smith Legends Award, a lifetime achievement award given to a legendary figure in motorsports, will be presented to Luyendyk. Luyendyk is a two-time Indianapolis 500 winner (1990, '97) and three-time Indy 500 pole winner that is equally well known in Texas for the circumstances surrounding his victory in the inaugural IndyCar Series race at Texas Motor Speedway in 1997.
Luyendyk's name will be forever etched in the TMS history books for his famous Victory Lane skirmish with A.J. Foyt in the inaugural nighttime IndyCar Series race at "The Great American Speedway!" Billy Boat, Foyt's driver, was celebrating the apparent win in Victory Lane when Luyendyk came in to protest the official results and claim he was the winner. Foyt took offense to the visit by Luyendyk and the two tangled in Victory Lane.
USAC officials investigated the protest and made the announcement the following day that Boat was being stripped of the win and declared Luyendyk the winner due to malfunctioning timing and scoring equipment.
In his career, Luyendyk made 170 starts in Indy car competition, posting seven victories, 35 top-five and 81 top-10 finishes.
Luyendyk, now retired from racing, spends his days working with son Arie Luyendyk Jr. on his open wheel career aspirations.
Johnson will be honored as the Texas Motor Speedway Racer of the Year. His victory in last fall's Dickies 500 played a pivotal role in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. Johnson left Texas Motor Speedway as the point leader and would go on to capture his second consecutive Sprint Cup Series championship.
Hornish Jr., now a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series rookie after an illustrious IndyCar Series career, will be recognized with the Texas Motor Speedway Sportsmanship Award. Hornish Jr.'s charitable contributions to Speedway Children's Charities Texas Chapter have not gone unnoticed. For the past three years, Hornish Jr. has hosted the Sam Hornish Jr. Celebrity Bowling Tournament prior to the Bombardier Learjet 550k race weekend.
Last year's event raised $125,000 to bring the three-year total to $308,500. Hornish Jr. became the first three-time IndyCar Series winner at Texas Motor Speedway with his dominating victory in last June's Bombardier Learjet 550k. Hornish Jr., the three-time IndyCar Series champion and 2006 Indianapolis 500 winner, is beginning a new chapter in his racing career this season as he made the transition over to stock cars. Hornish Jr., driving for Penske Racing, is competing for Rookie of the Year honors this year in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.
The Texas Motor Sports Hall of Fame ceremony benefits Happy Hill Farm Academy, located just south of Granbury, Texas. The 500-acre working farm provides specialized services for children who need another start in life. Happy Hill Farm Academy serves children with a broad range of behavioral and academic issues sometimes a result of abuse and neglect. The environment provided at Happy Hill Farm Academy allows residents to flourish in a non-traditional setting.
The VIP reception prior to the awards ceremony begins at 6 p.m. CT in The Speedway Club at Texas Motor Speedway. The Texas Motor Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony will follow at 7 p.m. CT in the Grand Ballroom at The Speedway Club at Texas Motor Speedway. Tickets are available by calling (866) 463-8392 or by visiting www.happyhillfarm.org.
 

NASCAR DRIVER DAVID REUTIMANN TEST AT INFINEON RACEWAY

THE MILWAUKEE MILE WELCOMES SEARS AUTO CENTER, USAR HOOTERS PRO CUP SERIES TO 2008 SCHEDULE

Historic Saturday, May 31 Event Coinciding with IndyCar Series Weekend

MILWAUKEE, Wis. March 06, 2008 - Today, The Milwaukee Mile announced a new marketing partnership with Sears Holdings and the addition of the "Sears Auto Center 150" United Speed Alliance Racing (USAR) Hooters Pro Cup Series event, to be run on Saturday, May 31.
This will also signify a renewal of Sears' participation at The Milwaukee Mile, as the nearby Hoffman Estates, Ill.-based company was heavily involved as the weekend entitlement sponsor of the historic speedway's NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series event for six years, from 1995 through 2000.
The Saturday, May 31 Sears Auto Center 150 will run on IndyCar Series Pole Day, one day prior to the ABC Supply / A.J. Foyt 225 IndyCar Series event at The Mile on Sunday, June 1.
There will be no increase in ticket prices for either day according to speedway officials, with Sears Auto Center 150 race day tickets family-friendly priced at $15 for adult general admission, with children ages 12 and under admitted free with an issued ticket.
To accommodate the increased on-track activity, practice and qualifying sessions for the Sears Auto Center 150 will take place on Friday May 30, which will be a free grandstand admission day to allow fans to reacquaint themselves with the traveling stock car series that made a one-off visit to The Mile in 1997.
"We are pleased to welcome Sears Auto Center back to The Milwaukee Mile," commented Milwaukee Mile Chairman Craig Stoehr. "We listened to our fans and worked with the Indy Racing League in moving both of their events to Sunday, to allow us to strike up a partnership with Sears and their existing involvement in the USAR Hooters Pro Cup Series. Adding more racing on this weekend is a winning move for our loyal fans across the board."
Sears participation in the nationally televised USAR Hooters Pro Cup Series, and the interest of USAR to compete at The Milwaukee Mile made for quick work in making this possible.
"Sears Auto Center is excited to be a sponsor of the USAR Racing Series once again for the 2008 season," said Rick Sawyer, Vice President and General Merchandise Manager of Sears Auto Center. "I know I speak for all Sears Automotive associates in saying how proud we are to be a part of this great racing experience."
The USAR Hooters Pro Cup Series offers two regional series - the Northern Division and Southern Division - that conclude each season in a four race schedule with both series to determine one national champion. The race cars are very similar to NASCAR Nationwide Series stock cars, racing on BFGoodrich Tires g-Force radials. Proven stock car veterans Bobby Gill, Gary St. Amant and Mike Garvey compete against rising talents and accomplished drivers on America's best short tracks.
The Milwaukee Mile will be one of only two mile-long tracks the USAR Hooters Pro Cup Series competes on during the 2008 season, which should equate to a high-caliber of drivers competing in the Sears Auto Center 150. By design, USAR does not schedule a Northern and Southern event on the same weekend, allowing for maximum participation. During the 2007 season, over 100 USAR competitors raced at 16 short tracks in 11 states.
Expected in the event activation are the six Hooters Restaurants in Wisconsin, located in the Milwaukee suburb of Greenfield, plus stores in Janesville, Madison, LaCrosse, Green Bay and Appleton. An additional nine locations in Chicago and northern Illinois will also be incorporated in the promotion of the Sears Auto Center 150.
"Returning to The Milwaukee Mile is one of the highlights of our schedule," said Gene Cox, USAR President. "The track is steeped in racing history and will provide a great setting for the Sears Auto Center 150. But the race itself will be historic, as well. For the first time in Hooters Pro Cup Series history, the race will be a combination event, where both divisions will be allowed to compete. With nearly 60 teams expected, this race will be a must-see event."
In 2007 under Stoehr's direction, The Milwaukee Mile renewed a long-standing tradition of hosting the IndyCar Series the Sunday following the Indianapolis 500. With the Sears Auto Centers 150 event on Saturday, and an increase to three championship events now being contested on this much-anticipated weekend, the 100-mile Indy Pro Series race will move to Sunday, June 1 as a prelude to the IndyCar Series race.
The May 30 -- June 1 weekend schedule is a work in progress and be made available on The Mile's website, www.milwaukeemile.com.
 

JIM AUST

JIM AUST ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT PLANS

VOLVO CARS INTRODUCES SPECIAL EDITION TO CELEBRATE THE VOLVO OCEAN RACE

MARCH 06, 2008 - Volvo Cars is starting the countdown to the Volvo Ocean Race by launching a series of specially designed cars. The new Volvo Ocean Race Edition encompasses three models: the Volvo V70, Volvo XC70 and Volvo XC90. New is that customers can choose between two exterior colours: Ocean Blue and Electric Silver.
"The Volvo Ocean Race reflects the values that our customers look for when they choose a car. It's all about an active lifestyle, adventure and passion. The cars in the Volvo Ocean Race Edition radiate all this. We are convinced that the marine design connection will make them very attractive," says Lennart Stegland, President of the Special Vehicles division at Volvo Cars.
When Volvo organised the Volvo Ocean Race the very first time in 2001-02, the company sold 4,500 special edition Volvo V70s and X70s. In conjunction with the 2005-06 race, the Ocean Blue family was extended with the Volvo XC90 and sales increased to 8,600 cars.
The most recent Volvo Ocean Race Edition will reach dealers in June 2008 and Volvo Cars expects to sell about 9,000 cars. The five largest markets are Germany, Sweden, Finland, Great Britain and Japan.

Exciting new interiors

"This time we've sharpened our offer with a stronger link to sailing. More interior details echoes the materials used in masts and rigs. The stitching on the upholstery traces its roots to sail making. The aluminium detailing on the mats resembles clews. What is more, the design of the unique wheels has been inspired by the movement of the ocean's waves," says Lennart Stegland.
The Volvo Ocean Race emblem has a new, more exclusive design and the cars' marine aura is enhanced by the Ocean Blue livery in combination with exterior details in chrome. The Volvo Ocean Race Edition cars are also available in Electric Silver.
All the cars feature full leather upholstery in exclusive soft leather and the interior is available in Soft Beige or Offblack, with the centre console and other details in a silk matt aluminium finish. The cars in the Volvo Ocean Race Edition series can be specified with the full range of engine alternatives available for each respective model and market.

Volvo Ocean Race

The Volvo Ocean Race is the world's most gruelling ocean adventure. An extreme race that consists of 10 legs. The vessels start off on 4 October from Alicante in Spain. The finishing line is in St Petersburg, Russia, on June 27, 2009 after stops in Cape Town (South Africa), Kochi (India), Singapore, Qingdao (China), Brazil (Rio de Janeiro), Boston (USA), Galway (Ireland), Göteborg (Sweden) and Stockholm (Sweden). The 2008-09 event also includes an inshore race in most of the ports.

For more detailed information about the Volvo Ocean Race, click on:
 
http://www.volvooceanrace.org
OR
http://www.volvooceanrace.tv
 

FEINBERG NAMED FACTORY IMSA LITES DRIVER BY HANKOOK TIRE USA

AUDI UNVEILS NEW A4 DTM