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ARCA Nation News

February 14, 2011

Chad McCumbee Kicks Off 2011 Season with Top-10 at Daytona

February 14, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 14, 2011) - Chad McCumbee and his No. 1 Ford team got the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards season off on the right foot with an eighth-place finish in the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona International Speedway Saturday evening.

Race strategy seemed to be the name of the game for McCumbee and his Andy Belmont Racing team and it was something they started even before the drop of the green flag. McCumbee relinquished the 28th starting position to bring his Ford down pit road, which resulted in him, along with a few other teams using the same strategy, to start from the back of the 43 car field.

"You have to be patient," explained McCumbee. "With so many rookies and the inexperience in the field you are watching some scary stuff sometimes. You just never know what is going to happen, so we decided to play it safe for the beginning of the race and let some of the action play out."

It didn't take long for the action to get started as the first caution of the night came out on lap seven. The team took the early yellow as an opportunity to short pit for fuel only. It was a strategy call that would prove to be beneficial for McCumbee as it was his only stop of the night.

The green flag brought the field back to racing on lap nine and McCumbee took the restart from the 22nd position. It didn't take long for the pit strategy to pay off as a lap 19 caution brought several cars to pit road for service. McCumbee kept his Ford on the track and moved into the seventh position.

On the lap 22 restart, McCumbee looked to make a move on the outside but got shuffled back to 16th in only one lap. For the next 43 laps, McCumbee patiently bided his time strategically moving up to the 12th position by the halfway point on lap 40.

The red flag came out on lap 46 after Chad Hackenbracht's No. 58 crashed in turn 4, flipping against the wall. The delay gave McCumbee and his ABR team an opportunity to discuss their strategy for the final shoot-out to the finish.

Several cars decided to come down pit road after the yellow came out to get the field back rolling. McCumbee kept his No. 1 Ford on the track, moving into the ninth position for the lap 51 restart. For the next 10 laps McCumbee reported to his Andy Belmont Racing crew that he was "just riding" to get himself in position to compete for the win.

The final caution of the day came out on lap 64 for a nine car wreck, setting up a shoot-out to the checkered flag. As had been the case for most of the race, passing proved to be difficult. McCumbee held his line on the bottom of the track for the final laps of the race and crossed the finish line in eighth place.

"I am really happy with our run today," said McCumbee. "That finish puts us on the podium among the guys that are going to run for the championship all year. You want to go out there and try to win, but in a race like this you just have to be conservative all race long. Having team owners like Andy and Jennifer Belmont that want to come hire a driver, that's pretty special. It was a good start to the year and we will go do it again in Talladega in a couple of months."

Team Owner Andy Belmont was also very happy with their top-10 finish in the premier event of the ARCA Racing Series season.

"Today was a great start for the No. 1 team and our championship run. To come out of here with a whole race car, there isn't a mark on it, means a lot. We will go home and buff on it and get ready for Talladega. I am excited for the 2011 season."

McCumbee and his team will have some time off before continuing their championship run at Talladega Superspeedway on Friday, April 15th for 250 miles of racing action.

Sean Corr, Empire Racing Overcome Adversity At Daytona For Solid Finish

February 14, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 14, 2011) - There’s an old saying that hard work equals reward. While that phrase may be a little bit of an understatement for Empire Racing and driver Sean Corr this past Saturday at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway (DIS), the team was still able to produce a solid finish in the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200.

Frustrated with the performance of their No. 82 Ford Fusion following the three-day open ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards test in January, the Mooresville, North Carolina-based team put a countless number of hours into the 2011 ARCA Racing Series season-opener.

When the first practice concluded last Thursday afternoon, Corr climbed from his machine satisfied with the vast improvement of his race car from just a month prior. Despite being nestled mid-pack overall during the four-hour practice session on Thursday, the team was quick to point out that they chose not to draft, while others did.

“The car is better, a lot better,” said Corr, a native of Goshen, New York. “John (Bellesfield, team manager), Richard (Johns, crew chief) and the team put a lot of sweat into the car over the past couple of weeks and it showed after the first lap of practice.”

In qualifying on Friday, Corr maneuvered the 27^th fastest time placing his Empire Racing into the starting grid for the second consecutive year at the “World Center of Racing.” The team was relieved on the run as the field was one of the tightest in ARCA history at the 2.5-mile superspeedway.

“I’m okay with where we’re starting,” added Corr. “Of course, we would have liked to have been closer to the front, but we made the show and that’s important! Now in Happy Hour, we’ll focus on drafting, so I know how the car will perform during the race.”

On Saturday morning, Corr thundered his John Corr-owned automobile into the seventh fastest lap overall with a time of 48.398 seconds or 185.958 miles per hour. Corr was one of five Ford Fusions to place into the top-10 during the forty-five minute practice session at DIS.

When the green flag dropped on Saturday afternoon for the race, Corr wasted no time moving the field and when the caution waived on lap four, Corr moved into the 21^st position.

On the restart, Corr drafted his way into the 17^th position where he hovered until he made a pit stop during the event’s second caution on lap 19. The quick pit stop put their driver back into competition solidly in the top-20 and ready to maneuver back to the front.

Unfortunately for the Corr, his Ford Fusion struggled in the single-car draft, unable to gain the speed needed to move through the field.

Resting in the top-25 with 16 laps remaining, Corr brilliantly negotiated through the “Big One” in turn three. Escaping the carnage allowed the No. 82 Nesco / North East Fabricators / Trans Tech / Roush Yates Performance Parts Ford Fusion to move back into the top-20.

During the final green flag run of the race, the dirt late model ace was able to use the side-draft to his advantage allowing him to creep in the rundown and take the checkered flag in the 15^th position edging outside pole sitter Kyle Fowler.

Upon inspection of the team’s entry following the event, the team diagnosed a failure in a shock, which ultimately hampered Corr’s ability to have a better run.

“It was a quiet race, but we did okay,” said Corr. “The guys worked hard and we came away with a race car intact. We can go back to the shop, work on her some more and get ready for Talladega. We’ll mean business there, I promise you that.”

Corr continued, “We’ve shown that we can make this car better and we did throughout the whole week and still were able to walk-away from Daytona with a solid finish. Sure, I would have liked more, but I’m thankful for what we did accomplish. I also want to thank everyone who came on-board as marketing partners for the race. I know I’m speaking on behalf of the team that we appreciate it greatly!”

The ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards will take nearly an eight week pause before actions resumes at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway on Friday, April 15^th, 2011 live on SPEED. There, Corr will also look to make his second consecutive superspeedway debut at the breathtaking 2.66-mile oval.

For more on Sean Corr, Empire Racing and marketing opportunities for the 2011 racing season, please visit empireracingllc.com.

About Empire Racing:

Established in 2009, Empire Racing LLC. (empireracingllc.com) is a two-tier professional Motorsports organization consisting of dirt and asphalt competition. Sean Corr, a 26-year old hailing from Goshen, New York pilots the team’s automobiles in the DIRTcar Series and Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA). In 2011, the team will attempt to run for a championship in the ARCA Racing Series with aspirations of moving into the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR). The team is headquartered in Goshen, New York with an additional operation in Mooresville, North Carolina.

Dakoda Armstrong's Season Opener Brings Disappointment

February 14, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 14, 2011) - Dakoda Armstrong, driving the Ferrellgas/Syngenta Seeds Dodge, in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards, was looking forward to redemption at Daytona International Speedway. Daytona was the only track in the 2010 season where Armstrong finished lower than 14th, finishing 33rd after wrecking early in last year’s race. After testing with his Cunningham Motorsports team at the superspeedway in January, Armstrong arrived in Daytona with great optimism for a good finish in the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200.

The #22 team made a few adjustments to the Dodge after the open test that didn’t prove beneficial. After running 14 laps of practice and posting the 28^th speed on the speed charts, crew chief Paul Andrews and the team returned to their test set-up. After qualifying 14^th, Armstrong felt more comfortable with the car, saying, “Our time was pretty close to our test times. We went back to the set-up we had in January and the car felt much better than in practice yesterday. We should race well.”

On race day, Dakoda and the team drafted during the early morning practice session and posted the 2^nd fastest speed of the 21 cars that took to the race track. An optimistic Armstrong was ready for the racing to begin. When the green flag flew, Armstrong picked off three positions to 11^th by the completion of lap 1. He was in 10^th when the first caution flag flew on lap 4. When the green came back out on lap, with Armstrong still in 10^th in the 12 car lead draft, Dakoda began experiencing communication problems. As the problems continued, Armstrong jumped out of the draft and fell back to the back of the line to 16^th. As radio communication was restored, the second caution came out, on lap 19. Andrews called Armstrong in for 4 tires and fuel, with Armstrong telling Andrews, “The car feels good.” With most of the field coming in during this yellow, Armstrong re-started in 33^rd. Dakoda picked off positions one-by-one, settling into the 21^st spot by lap 46 when the caution came out again for another crash. With the race red-flagged, Armstrong and Andrews had plenty of time to discuss the need to pit to pull a tear-off from the windshield because of fluid leaking from the Kyle Fowler machine. After coming in to clear his windshield, Dakoda restarted on lap 51 in 19^th. The race was slowed by one final caution on lap 64, involving several cars. Armstrong made it as far forward as 14^th by lap 71, before finishing 20^th.

After the race a disappointed Armstrong commented, “We couldn’t get anyone to go with us. All of the cars I was hoping could help us were involved in the ‘big one’ on lap 64. I think this restrictor plate killed our ability to race.”

The next race for Armstrong and the #22 team will be the Talladega ARCA 250 at the historic 2.66 mile Talladega Superspeedway, where Armstrong claimed his first ARCA Series victory last April, after winning the pole. In addition to Talladega, Armstrong is working on a potential partial Camping World Truck Series season.

Rookie Joey Licata Jr. Masters Draft at Daytona

February 14, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 14, 2011) - Joey Licata, a 19 year old rookie, in his first ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards race, showed what a quick learner he is, with a sixth-place finish in the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200. After testing a couple of times last year in the stock cars and attending the ARCA test in Daytona in January, Licata had garnered all of the education he needed to contend for a win at the famed Daytona International Speedway. Practice and qualifying, where he ended up 19th quickest in the first practice, 11th in the final drafting practice and 25th in qualifying, didn’t show what Joey was capable of doing in the race.

With 24 laps of practice on Thursday, Joey and the Cunningham Motorsports #77 team put up a 49.10 on the speed chart, which was almost a second behind the quick time of Hal Martin. After qualifying 25^th on Friday, the team found a problem with the oil heating system that wasn’t allowing the oil to heat to optimum temperature. Saturday morning, race day brought 45 minutes for drafting practice. Joey took his WrongInc.com Dodge out for 10 laps of practice, posting the 11^th quickest speed and allowing him to get comfortable in the draft. After drafting practice, Licata commented, “I am thrilled to be with this championship team-a team of this caliber. It has been a great experience.”

Like most first timers at Daytona, Joey couldn’t believe how long the day was between drafting practice and driver introductions. As soon as he strapped his helmet on after driver intros, he was in his comfort zone. And he showed everyone what this young guy from California was all about. With all of the youthful enthusiasm of a rookie at Daytona, Licata took the green flag from the 25^th position. When the first caution flag flew on lap 4, Joey had moved to 19^th. Crew chief Jonathan Davis brought the #77 Dodge into the pits for a fuel only pit stop—the only stop of the day for the team. Coming back to the track in 36^th, Licata picked off one position after another as soon as the green flag flew. He picked up a number of spots when most of the leaders pitted under the next caution on lap 19. After the green came out on lap 22, Licata restarted in 4^th. Two laps later he made the pass for 3^rd and held on to that position, with the guidance of NASCAR veteran spotter, Tim Andrews, until the final lap. Through the next 56 laps, Joey drafted, was bump drafted (even in the corners), participated in several three and six car breakaways, sat through a red flag and contemplated the last lap of the 80 lap event. On the final lap, still in the 3^rd spot, Licata stepped out of line, expecting someone to hook up with him, to try for the race win. All alone, Licata made it even with the 2^nd place car of Chris Beuscher, but began falling back. He took his first ARCA Series checkered flag in 6^th.

After the race, an elated Licata said, “Wow, that was fun! The WrongInc.com/Cunningham Motorsports Dodge drove really, really well. If I had someone go with me, we could have won the race. I couldn’t have slept tonight if I hadn’t tried it.” Tonight Licata showed what ‘true racers’ are made of—that ever-present desire to win.

The top five finishers were Bobby Gerhart, Chris Beuscher, Matt Merrell, Ricky Carmichael and Jason Bowles. The next race for the Rookie of the Year contender is April 15 at the 2.66 mile Talladega Superspeedway for the Talladega ARCA 250. In the two months between Daytona and Talladega, Cunningham Motorsports plans to do a lot of testing in preparation for the rest of the season.

Unfortunate Tire Rub Ends Hal Martin's Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 Early

February 14, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 13, 2011) - Hal Martin, otherwise known from his New Orleans roots as the "Ragin' Cajun," came to Daytona with strong hopes for a clean run at the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards inauguaral 2011 race. After an impressive outing at both the December Hoosier Tire test session, as well as the January three-day ARCA Series full test session, Martin was confident in his understanding of the new track pavement.

"I knew after working with (crew chief) John Quinn, a veteran at Daytona, that we had the right setups on the No. 55 NOLA Motorsports Toyota Camry," said Martin. " We knew that tire wear would be low, and coming into the race week, it would be all about mastering the draft and fuel management. The car was perfect, and going into both practice sessions, we knew we were a super competitive team."

Martin went on to post top 3 times in the first practice session, as well as dominating the second practice session at the top of the boards. He posted a sixth fastest qualifying time on Friday afternoon, just as the Daytona sun was going behind the stands - just behind his Venturini teammates, Kyle Fowler and Steve Arpin.

The first five laps of the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 were a jockey for the 26-year-old in his second start for Venturini Motorsports, as in the fifth lap, the 94 car of Brett Hudson slammed into the wall - causing the race's first of four cautions. Restarting 5^th at lap 10, Martin settled in behind the No. 4 car of Ricky Carmichael - where he would stay in single file racing until the second caution flag at lap 18, when the No. 52 of Tom Hessert hit the wall. The team chose to pit for fuel topoff and windshield tear off.

Restarting p13 at lap 22 on the green, Martin quickly navigated the pack to hit p5 by lap 33 - remaining there until the day's third caution flag came out at lap 46. Quinn chose to bring Martin in for a right side tire change, as well as ¼ tank of fuel. Martin would restart p18 on lap 49 and progress to p15 by lap 55, where he began a successful draft behind Venturini teammate in the No. 66, Mark Thompson.

Another caution came out at lap 56 when the No. 10 wheeled by Ed Pompa hit the wall by the start/finish line. On the restart at lap 62, Martin was p14 and ready to take on the last 40 laps by drafting with teammates up to the top.

A chain reaction on Lap 64, however, sent nine cars reeling. Hal Martin, suffering a tire rub in the No. 55, began to slow on the backstretch, hailing the attention of teammate Steve Arpin in the No. 25 Mike's Hard Lemonade/Trent's Tire Toyota. When Martin's tire blew in the outside lane, Arpin tried to move inside to avoid a collision but instead caught Milka Duno and the No. 63 Citgo Lubricants Dodge.

"It was a disappointing end to such a good run this week," Martin continued. "All I can say is that we're taking what we've learned about Superspeedways to Talladega in April. It was a great overall experience, and I wish I could have wheeled the No. 55 to Victory Lane - but it happens. We have to keep going and keep racing, and I have to thank everyone at the Venturini Motorsports shop for working so hard to give us a great race car all week."

Race Breakdown: Kevin Swindell

February 14, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

Race Break Down: Kevin Swindell | No. 98 Curb Records Eddie Sharp Racing Toyota
Start: 12^th Finish: 12^th

Swindell, also coming off a big win at the 2011 Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Nationals, competed at DIS for the first time in the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200.

The 21-year-old driver started the weekend off with practice, where he was able to gain valuable experience on the recently re-paved surface. Friday afternoon, Swindell laid down a lap of 49.291 seconds (182.589 mph) in qualifying, good enough to land the No. 98 in the 12^th spot for the start of the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200. Crew chief Jefferson Hodges and Swindell decided not to go out for the happy hour practice on Saturday morning and focused on race strategy taken from the information they received during the test and practice sessions.

The green flag waved on the 80-lap event on Saturday afternoon, and Swindell quickly moved into eighth position by lap 11. The yellow flag came out on lap 18 and provided a perfect opportunity for Swindell to come down pit road for his only stop of the day. The crew gave the No. 98 right-side tires and fuel, which would last the remainder of the race.

The race resumed and Swindell continued to remain calm, yet aggressive in his driving. By lap 36, Swindell held steady in the 13^th position, where he would remain when the red flag waved due to Hackenbracht’s turn four incident on lap 46. Crew chief Hodges strategized with the driver and team during the brief break in racing and decided not to come in for a pit stop.

Racing resumed, and Swindell moved up to the ninth position by lap 60. With only 20 laps to go, Hodges encouraged the young driver to remain patient.

A chain-reaction accident on lap 64 sent nine cars sprawling across the backstretch, but Swindell was clear from the incident in the ninth position.

The final restart of the night would leave a 10-lap shootout. The green flag waved on lap 70, and the top-five cars pulled away, leaving the No. 09 of Benny Gordon, No. 1 of Chad McCumbee and Swindell to play catch-up. Unfortunately, Swindell made a last-lap push to the front but did not find any help from the cars behind him. He crossed the finish line 12^th.

“It wasn’t too bad of a race,” said Swindell. “We just weren’t at the right place at the right time. We made an attempt to pick up a few spots right there on one of the restarts and got shuffled and never could recover. At the end, I tried to get a few cars behind me to go with me and pick up a few spots, but I got left hanging. We ended up in one piece, and I learned a little bit. Just not too happy.”

Race Breakdown: Jason Bowles

February 14, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

Race Break Down: Jason Bowles | No. 6 Rusty Wallace Racing Experience Eddie Sharp Racing Toyota
Start: 16^th Finish: 5^th

Bowles, coming off his 2011 NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown win, looked to compete in his first ARCA Racing Series event. He tested with ESR in January at the newly-paved track and hoped to take his knowledge from the test into the event Saturday.

In qualifying, Bowles laid down a lap of 49.368 seconds (182.304 mph), which would land him in the 16^th position for the main event on Saturday. Crew Chief David Leiner Jr. and Bowles decided to go out for happy hour practice on Saturday morning for drafting practice, which helped prepare the No. 6 for the 200-mile event later in the day.

The green flag waved on the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200, and Bowles remained confident and calm among the 42 other entries. By lap 11, Bowles climbed up to the ninth. With a caution on lap 18, the No. 6 came down pit road for the lone stop of the day, taking on right-side tires and fuel.

By lap 35, Bowles moved up into the eighth position and would remain there when the red flag came out on lap 46 due to an accident involving Chad Hackenbracht’s No. 58. The team strategized and decided to stay out on the track when pit road opened based on advantageous gas mileage.

The green flag waved again, and Bowles followed the leaders, cautious of the threat of getting out of line and losing the all-important draft. By lap 66, Bowles moved his way into the sixth position as he hugged the yellow line and stayed in the draft.

On the final restart, Bowles kept his line behind fourth-place Ricky Carmichael and sailed across the finish line in fifth place.

“It was a good race,” said Bowles. “We ended up fifth, and the guys did a great job on the No. 6 Rusty Wallace Racing Experience Toyota. Unfortunately, we did not have any help there at the end. We did what we said we were going to do and road around on the yellow line toward the end. On that last restart, the guys behind us ran two-by-two for quite some time and lost the draft. The guys at Eddie Sharp Racing gave us a great car. I think that we could have gone up there and competed for the win if we had some help, but fifth place isn’t too bad. Rusty Wallace Racing Experience coming on board was a great thing, and I thank them for their help over the past two races. I hope we can put together something else and come back to race later this year.”

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February 13, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

Milka Duno's Strong Run Ends Early at Daytona

February 13, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 13, 2011) - Milka Duno had her sights set on a top-ten finish in the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona International Speedway when, with only 16 laps remaining, a nine-car accident brought her night to an early end.

"Milka ran a great race today," said Crew Chief Jon Wolfe. "She did exactly what we asked her to do. We were close to our goal of a top-10 finish, we just got taken out."

Duno took the green flag from the 23^rd position and wasted no time moving forward. By lap two she had already moved her No. 63 machine up to the 16^th position, but it didn't take long for things to get interesting for Duno. On lap four the first caution of the night came out when No. 94 of Brett Hudson lost a tire right in front of Duno. With some great driving, the Venezuelan-native was able to avoid Hudson's spinning car.

The field went back to green on lap seven, and Duno continued her climb to the front of the field, moving to the 14^th position by lap 18, when the second caution of the night again slowed the 43-car field. A multi-car accident occurred right in front of Duno's No. 63 Dodge. For the second time of the race, with head's-up driving and quick reflexes, Duno was able to avoid the wreck.

Crew Chief Jon Wolfe used the caution as an opportunity to bring his driver down pit road for her first and only time of the night. The Sheltra Motorsports team serviced their No. 63 Dodge with a lightning-quick fuel only stop and sent Duno on the way. As she went to pull out of her pit box, Duno got blocked in by another car and was forced to backup before she could make her exit, relegating her to the 25th position for the restart.

The green flag waved again on lap 20 for a long green-flag run. During the run Duno clicked off some of the fastest lap times of the race. On lap 23 Duno circled the 2.5-mile track at a speed of 190.998 mph, 9.561 mph faster than her qualifying speed, setting the fastest lap run during the first half of the race.

By the halfway point, on lap 40, Duno had climbed her way back to 16^th and was biding her time for a strong finish when the action picked up again. On lap 46, a multi-car wreck brought out the red flag, allowing Duno and Wolfe set their strategy for the remainder of the event.

The field went back underway on lap 51 and Duno wasted no time moving her No. 63 Dodge into the 12^th position. Duno held her position for the next 13 laps setting her strategy for the shoot-out to the checkered flag.

Unfortunately for Duno, the chance for a race to the finish would not be possible. Hal Martin, in the No. 55, suffered a blown tire. As the tire blew, Steve Arpin's No. 25 moved to the inside to avoid Martin, but instead caught Duno in the right front, leaving her nowhere to go. The collision ultimately collected nine cars, and brought Duno's night to an early end. Duno went on to finish 31^st, 16 laps shy of the finish.

"We had a really good race going," said Duno. "I really appreciate the car that the team gave me. It was a really good car. It was a great team effort. We ran close to the top-10 for much of the night. We were running some of the fastest laps of the race. I am just really sorry for what happened and very disappointed for my guys. They gave me such a great car and Jon (Wolfe) had a great strategy. The No. 25 just made a bad move, and we got caught in a wreck."

Following the finish of the race, Duno's team owner Patrick Sheltra had nothing but positive remarks for how his rookie driver ran the race.

"Milka did a real good job," said team owner and 2010 ARCA Champion Sheltra. "She stayed out of trouble and drove a clean race. It's unfortunate that (Steve) Arpin got in to her. I was very impressed with her. She learned a lot during the race and showed a lot of potential for the future."

Frank Kimmel Finishes 10th at Daytona in No. 44 Ansell/Menards Ford

February 13, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 12, 2011) - Frank Kimmel, driver of the No. 44 Ansell-Menards Ford in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards, finished 10th this afternoon in the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 from Daytona International Speedway. It was a tale of two gambles with opposite results this afternoon, both taken by Frank in pursuit of his first victory at Daytona International Speedway in an impressive 20th start.

The action started early for Frank, as a few teams, including the Ansell-Menards Ford, elected to bring their cars down pit road before the green flag dropped, which resulted in them having to start in the back. The plan was to be patient in the early portion of the race and let the action play itself out in the front of the field.

“We decided to move to the rear early. I’ve been around long enough to see that it can get chaotic at Daytona instantly, especially with so many rookies in the race,” said nine time ARCA Racing Series Champ, Frank Kimmel.

The initial gamble paid off, as Frank was able to stay out under an early caution, when a majority of the other teams had to pit for fuel. The result was a restarting position of 3^rd by lap 23. Unfortunately, Frank’s second risk was not as successful. Frank quickly moved the Ansell-Menards Ford out of line on the restart in hopes of taking second place. However, the top lane wasn’t the preferred groove throughout the race and the other drivers elected to stay on the bottom, which left Frank without a drafting partner. The outcome temporarily dropped the No. 44 Ansell-Menards Ford back to 16^th.

“I wanted to get behind Bobby (Gerhart). I thought with it being early that someone would go with me but I was wrong. I only lacked a few feet to make the pass but I needed that help,” said Frank.

From that point on the Ansell-Menards team fought a battle to get back to the front - one position at a time. In the end, the No. 44 Ansell-Menards Ford took the checkered flag in the 10^th position. “It was difficult…the only way you could pick up a spot was when a driver decided to try and pass up top. We were able to race our No. 44 Ansell-Menards Ford back to 10^th there at the end. Overall, it’s a top ten finish and that’s encouraging heading into Talladega,” concluded Frank Kimmel.

Watch for Frank Kimmel in the No. 44 Ansell-Menards Ford at Talladega Superspeedway for the Talladega ARCA 250 in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards. The race can be seen live on SPEED Channel on April 25, 2011 at 5:00 pm EST. More information can be found at www.frankkimmel.com and www.arcaracing.com.

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February 12, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

Maryeve Dufault, Tony Marks Rev Up with VR-12 for 2011 ARCA Season

February 12, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 12, 2011) - Officials from Tony Marks Racing (TMR) and Freezetone® Products, the manufacturer of VR-12 announced this morning from Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway that VR-12 has aligned itself with the newest team in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards driven by Maryeve Dufault for the full 2011 season as the title sponsor of the team’s No. 12 entry beginning with this afternoon’s Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200.

VR-12 is manufactured by Freezetone® Products, USA, leader in International car maintenance products and environmentally safe solutions. Luis M. Latour, President, has 30 years of experience in manufacturing ecological products for the automotive industry. With his team of experts, he was able to develop a solution that saves consumers money while at the same time lessening the environmental damage caused by most automotive chemical solutions.

VR-12 is a revolutionary green product that is used to guard against coolant problems. This new invention is the ultimate cooling system protection. It is like a vitamin for cooling systems, composed of organic components and mixed through a synergetic process. VR-12 offers an alternative to topping off radiators and cooling systems versus conventional methods. A special formula containing Organic Acid Technology (OAT) will keep vehicles running at pick performance for longer periods of time while eliminating flushing and waste. It should be used as part of monthly radiator and cooling system maintenance. VR-12 is a green product that protects radiators and cooling components from rust and corrosion, preventing expensive coolant replacement.

“We’re very excited about today’s announcement with VR-12,” said Tony Marks, owner of TMR. “This partnership with VR-12 fits the platform that we believe in at TMR and it is a product that I personally endorse. It is our goal to make others in racing and those consumers on the road know the importance of what VR-12 can do and I believe we’ll start showing that this afternoon! To have Maryeve (Dufault) represent VR-12 is a win-win situation. She fits their marketing model perfectly and I know that she can and will get the job done behind the wheel of the VR-12 Dodge Charger.”

For Dufault, a native of Sorel, Quebec Canada the opportunity to work with a growing company like VR-12 fits right into her spectrum. “What an honor it will be to drive the No. 12 VR-12 Dodge Charger this season,” explained Dufault, who will roll from the 24^th position later today in her ARCA Racing Series debut. “Mr. Latour believes in our race team and we believe that we can help him accelerate the growth and distribution of his product through Tony Marks Racing. It’s a real honor to be the one to boast their product week in and week out!”

Vehicle maintenance is important, especially as consumers are postponing buying new cars in a recovering economy. VR-12 is appealing as a maintenance solution for radiators and car coolant systems because it can be used with all makes and models and mix with any antifreeze/coolant type, color or brand. Any vehicle owner, motorcycle, heavy truck, light duty truck, RV’ or boat, experiencing poor vehicle performance due to a week and neglected coolant can use VR-12. Also, other coolants are compatible with VR-12 so consumers can use this product when changing engine coolant in conjunction with what they are already using.

“VR-12 is proud to be affiliated with Tony Marks Racing and Maryeve Dufault for the 2011 ARCA Racing Series season,” says Luis M. Latour, President of Freezetone®. “VR-12 is designed to take care of your vehicle and save money while saving the environment. It helps conserve resources because it can re-energize your antifreeze and boosts your cooling system. We feel that no one can better help us spread that message than the TMR team. We’re extremely proud of the accomplishments that the team has achieved here at Daytona and we’re looking forward not only to today’s race but for the rest of the season.”

The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona (80 laps / 200 miles) is the first of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 48^th ARCA race held at Daytona is a three-day show. The event will take the green flag later today shortly after 4:30 p.m. The race will be televised live on SPEED with additional race coverage including live timing and scoring and radio broadcast through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com. All times are local.

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

For more on Maryeve Dufault, please log onto Maryeveracing.com.

To learn more about Tony Marks Racing, please click over to Tmr-racing.com.

See the buzz that VR-12 is creating by clicking over to their website at VR-12.com.

Sean Corr Thunders Empire Racing Into Top-10 In ARCA Happy Hour

February 12, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Florida - February 12, 2011) - Sean Corr, who will make his second consecutive start at the “World Center of Racing”, Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway roared his No. 82 Empire Racing LLC. Ford Fusion into the top-10 during ARCA’s final practice Saturday morning.

Corr, who will roll off from the 27^th position later today produced the seventh fastest lap overall with a time of 48.398 seconds or 185.958 miles per hour. The Mooresville, North Carolina-based team was one of five Ford Fusions to place into the top-10 during the forty-five minute practice session at the 2.5-mile superspeedway.

“We didn’t do any drafting on Thursday, so we knew that we needed to go out there this morning to see what we had,” said Corr, a native of Goshen, New York. “Overall, I’m pretty pleased with the car. The Empire Racing team has thrashed a lot over the past couple of weeks in order to give me the opportunity to race today. Hopefully, we can have a good day, stay out of trouble and be a contender near the end.”

Corr will be guided Saturday afternoon by 2010 Daytona 500 champion spotter Keith Barnwell who assisted Jamie McMurray in capturing the biggest NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) win of his career. Corr is hoping for good things with Barnwell today.

“Keith has a lot of experience and he is well respected in the NASCAR community, so I’m looking forward to working with him during the race,” said Corr, who will make his 11^th career start in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards today. “I think with his expertise and my ability behind the wheel, I think we have an excellent shot at finding ourselves in victory lane!

Former NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS) driver Richard Johns will serve as Corr’s crew chief, while John Bellesfield will hold the reins as team manager to kick off ARCA’s 59^th year of competition.

The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona (80 laps / 200 miles) is the first of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 48^th ARCA race held at Daytona is a three-day show. The event will take the green flag later today shortly after 4:30 p.m. The race will be televised live on SPEED with additional race coverage including live timing and scoring and radio broadcast through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com. All times are local.

For more on Sean Corr, Empire Racing and marketing opportunities for the 2011 racing season, please visit empireracingllc.com.

Kimmel Qualifies 26th for Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200

February 12, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 12, 2011) - Frank Kimmel, driver of the No. 44 Ansell-Menards Ford Fusion, qualified 26th yesterday for today’s Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona International Speedway.

The No. 44 Kimmel Racing team worked extremely hard this morning to get the car ready before today’s Menards Pole Qualifying presented by Ansell. The team’s difficult task did not hinder their persistence in getting the No. 44 Ansell-Menards Ford prepared, through the ARCA Racing Series inspection line and pushed out to their qualifying spot right on time. Unfortunately, Frank’s qualifying lap was not at the top of the charts, but Frank Kimmel and the Kimmel Racing crew are confident that they’ll be able to quickly work their way to the front in tomorrow’s race.

“I wasn’t too thrilled with that lap. I could see that the guys worked really hard to get the car ready, and I know that the qualifying lap doesn’t represent how well the car will race tomorrow. We just lack the single lap speed to put down that fast lap on our own but I believe we’ll be able to work the draft pretty well and move our way to the front,” said Frank Kimmel, driver of the No. 44 Ansell-Menards Ford.

Continue to watch for Frank Kimmel, as he makes his 20^th start at Daytona International Speedway in the No. 44 Ansell-Menards Ford tomorrow for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards. The event can be seen live on SPEED Channel starting at 4:30 pm EST. More information can be found at www.frankkimmel.com and www.arcaracing.com.

Brian Rose Qualifies 15th for ARCA Debut

February 12, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 12, 2011) - In his return to Daytona International Speedway for the first time since 2002, ARCA Racing Series Rookie of the Year candidate Brian Rose will start his No. 19 Team ASE / Harris Trucking Toyota Camry 15th on Saturday afternoon at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway.

Rose, the Bowling Green Kentucky native was the second of 47 cars to make a qualifying attempt around the newly re-paved 2.5-mile superspeedway. His early lap of 49.358 seconds at 182.341 miles per hour was good enough to stay in the top-10 for a majority of Menards pole qualifying presented by Ansell but when qualifications were complete, Rose landed with the seventh fastest time overall for the Toyota brigade. Saturday’s 80 lap / 200 mile shootout will be the debut of Brian Rose Motorsports (BRM) which was formed by the NASCAR driver in late 2010.

“We were expecting to be somewhere between eighth and 12^th, but we’ll take this and look towards tomorrow,” said Rose. “The main thing is that we are in the show. Danny (Rollins, crew chief) and all the guys on this Brian Rose Motorsports team really did an outstanding job the past couple of days. We’ve had to overcome some hurdles, but we did and I’m anxious to get back to plate racing tomorrow afternoon!”

When asked about his goal(s) for tomorrow, Rose, who will make his ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards inaugural debut, was firm but realistic.

“I really think we have a chance at winning this race,” he said. “Our car is really good in the draft. We haven’t decided if we are going to partake in drafting practice tomorrow but if we do, we’re just going to make sure the car responds well and we still have the speed we’re looking for. When the green flag drops, it’s my mission to get to the front as quickly and safely as I can and stay there. Hopefully if we can avoid any incidents ahead of us, we’ll be sitting pretty when the white flag flies and we’ll be in contention to head to victory lane!”

Rose has one prior start at the “World Center of Racing” in 2002 in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series driving for Bobby Hamilton Racing (BHR). With Rollins calling the shots back then too, the duo was able to qualify fourth, lead three laps with Rose able to cross the finish line third, a career-best in NASCAR.

Lawton Insurance, Battomi and West Coast Autosource join Team ASE and Harris Trucking as associate marketing partners on the No. 19 Brian Rose Motorsports Toyota Camry.

The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona (80 laps / 200 miles) is the first of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 48^th ARCA race held at Daytona is a three-day show. A forty-five minute final practice session is etched in on Saturday, February 12^th from 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. The event will take the green flag later that day shortly after 4:30 p.m. The race will be televised live on SPEED with additional race coverage including live timing and scoring and radio broadcast through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com. All times are local.

More information on Brian Rose, Brian Rose Motorsports and marketing partnership inquiries, please visit the all-new BrianRoseMotorsports.com.

Maryeve Dufault to Make ARCA Racing Series Debut Today at Daytona

February 12, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 12, 2011) - Maryeve Dufault, a Sorel, Quebec Canada native will make her ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards debut Saturday afternoon after she qualified a solid 24th on Friday afternoon at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway.

Dufault, driver of the No. 12 Tony Marks Racing Dodge Charger maneuvered her automobile around the newly re-paved 2.5-mile superspeedway in a time of 49.726 seconds at 180.992 miles per hour.

The ARCA Racing Series Rookie of the Year candidate out-qualified some of ARCA’s finest including nine time ARCA champion Frank Kimmel, Cunningham Motorsports’ Joey Licata Jr., NASCAR star Chad McCumbee and Grant Enfinger who is driving for 2008 ARCA Racing Series championship team Allgaier Motorsports.

Saturday’s Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 will also mark the inaugural ARCA debut of Tony Marks Racing (TMR), one of the newest multi-car teams within the ARCA Racing Series.

“I am very happy to be in the show and race tomorrow,” said Dufault, a resident of Redondo Beach, California. “After practice I was thinking about all of what could go wrong or whether or not we would have the speed to make it in. It's an amazing accomplishment being a new team, having no points and overcoming those pressures and fears to get in the race. I am just so happy to be a part of the Tony Marks Racing (TMR) program. Thankfully, we found the speed we were looking for from practice yesterday. The TMR team did an amazing job with our Dodge and I’m very proud of each and everyone one of them!”

She added, “I also have to thank all of our sponsors including Dodge and Victory Water H20. It's just very special to be in this race tomorrow. Our goal is to finish the race as high as we can and give our team some momentum heading into the next race at Talladega in April.”

Now that she is solidly in the show, Dufault and her Larry Moore-led crew will turn their attention to tomorrow morning’s “Happy Hour” drafting session, which will allow the avid open-wheeler to get a jump-start on drafting in preparation for her inaugural superspeedway debut. Immediately after “Happy Hour” but before Dufault straps in her No. 12 Tony Marks Racing Dodge Charger Saturday afternoon for the first of 19 events of the year, she will be joined by car owner Tony Marks and a special guest in the Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway Press Conference room on Saturday morning at 10:45 a.m. for an announcement concerning full primary sponsorship of her No. 12 Dodge for the remainder of the 2011 ARCA Racing Series season.

To coincide with their announcement and to help develop a new fan-base and center some attentiveness on their new marketing partner, Tony Marks Racing will carry an on-board camera for Saturday’s anticipated thriller.

The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona (80 laps / 200 miles) is the first of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 48^th ARCA race held at Daytona is a three-day show. A forty-five minute final practice session is etched in on Saturday, February 12^th from 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. The event will take the green flag later that day shortly after 4:30 p.m. The race will be televised live on SPEED with additional race coverage including live timing and scoring and radio broadcast through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com. All times are local.

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.

For more on Maryeve Dufault, please log onto Maryeveracing.com

To learn more about Tony Marks Racing, please click over to Tmr-racing.com

Kyle Fowler Leads Venturini Motorsports Quintet of Drivers in Qualifying at Daytona

February 12, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 12, 2011) - Venturini Motorsports dominated Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 qualifying at Daytona International Speedway yesterday with all five cars finishing in the top 11, including outside pole winner Kyle Fowler.

Venturini Motorsports teammates Fowler and Steve Arpin rounded out the top three spots in qualifying, with Hal Martin qualifying sixth, Mark Thompson eighth and Miguel Paludo 11th at the Daytona International Speedway.

Fowler turned a lap of 184.995 mph in the No. 15 Enterprise Software Deployment (ESD) Chevrolet to claim his series-highest qualifying effort. Arpin in the No.25 Mike’s Hard Lemonade/Trent’s Tire Toyota was edged out with a lap of 184.570 mph starting third.

“Well we are disappointed; we thought we had a shot at the pole and we qualified second and third,” Billy Venturini, team co-owner and competition director, said. “Our plan is still to win on Saturday. We have five cars in the top 11, four in the top eight. Our program seems to be strong; I think we will have a good Saturday. It is all about the trophy, if we don’t bring home the hardware on Saturday it is a disappointment.”

Martin, who was fastest during yesterday’s ARCA practice session, sped around 2.5-mile superspeedway in 48.977 seconds (183.760 mph).

Saturday’s 80-lap Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 will be televised live at 4:30 p.m. ET on SPEED with additional race coverage including live timing and scoring and radio broadcast through the ARCA Racing Network at arcaracing.com.

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February 11, 2011, 2:38:38 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Notes and Quotes: Frank Kimmel

February 11, 2011, 2:38:38 PM | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 11, 2011) - Frank Kimmel and the No. 44 Ansell/Menards Ford finished 21st of 47 cars in practice yesterday afternoon with a speed of 183.284 mph. Kimmel briefly reflected on the session after its conclusion.

How did your practice session go? "We didn’t practice as well as I had hoped…..we just didn’t find all the speed we need. In the draft we’re fine but on one lap runs were not as good.”

Is there anything you can pinpoint that could provide that needed speed? "It’s a bunch of small things. There’s nothing wrong with our Ford, however we do need to make a few adjustments before qualifying tomorrow. The Ansell-Menards crew is working hard and I’m confident that we’ll have a great car for the race.”

How was the repaved Daytona International Speedway? "Unbelievably smooth and it makes the car feel really good. You can move around and run any groove with little resistance. Should provide a great race on Saturday.”

John Ferrier Off to A Fast Start at Daytona

February 11, 2011, 2:38:38 PM | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 10, 2011) - John Ferrier hit the track for the first official ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards action of the 2011 season this afternoon. While morning rains threatened the lone four-hour practice session, officials were able to get the track dried off in time for the 1:00 p.m. start.

At the conclusion of the session, Ferrier's No. 14 CGS Imaging Ford sat 13^th among the 47 cars that took laps around Daytona International Speedway's high-banks. Ferrier rounded the 2.5-mile superspeedway with a time of 49.002 seconds (183.666 mph).

"I am really happy with the way the car ran today," said Ferrier. "We are right there in the draft, I mean we are in the top-15. We were in the top-15 in single car runs too, so I am pretty optimistic."

Ferrier and his Andy Belmont Racing Crew focused on the handling of his No. 14 Ford for much of the practice session.

"Overall the car is handling really well. I noticed that it was a little bit tight coming off turn 2, but that's not really uncommon in the draft. We are making some slight changes, and I think we are going to have a good run tomorrow for sure."

ARCA Racing Series action is set to begin again on Friday at 2:00 p.m. EST when the field will be set in Menards Pole Qualifying presented by Ansell for the running of Saturday afternoon's Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200.

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February 10, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

Ed Pompa Ready for Daytona

February 10, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

Ed Pompa

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 10, 2011) - ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards driver Ed Pompa is at Daytona for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200.

"I spoke to Andy Hillenburg back in November, saying that I would love to attempt to run Daytona at some point, and a few days later he called me saying he had a car that I could try to do it this year," Pompa said.

Ed will be running the Rifenburg Const./Double H Ranch Chevrolet this weekend. “I am doing the same sponsorship deal as last year, with the Double H Ranch getting all the money from the names on the car. I have basically the same group back this year. Rifenburg Const., Milwaukee Crusher Co, and Biondi Rigging have all stepped up their participation this year, with their donations totaling over $10,000.

“I do this for fun” Ed said, “if I can use this to help raise money for Double H, that’s even better.”

Depending upon Saturday’s race results, Ed may run some more this year.

“I’ll see how Daytona goes, and I’ll make a decision after that. I would love to go back to Pocono for one or maybe both races.”

In the News: Peterson's Canadian Heroes "Thrilled to Soldier On at Daytona"

February 10, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

Can Heroes

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 10, 2011) - Last week, the Hamilton Spectator in Ontario featured the exploits of several Canadian military members who will participate with Peterson Motorsports in this weekend's Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona International Speedway.

The group will work for Peterson's No. 06 CanadianHeroes.com Chevrolet, scheduled to be driven by Barry Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald is one of six drivers entered to have led a lap at Daytona in ARCA competition.

An excerpt from the article follows:

Headed by Hamilton’s Chris Ecklund and his Canadian Heroes, an organization devoted to the recognition of Canada’s military men and women, Ecklund has arranged for the military men to be a part of the Peterson Motorsports Racing team in the ARCA race, as part of his effort to build a race car team headed by Canadians, with a strong emphasis in acknowledging the military men and women of Canada.

“I’m pretty excited about all this,” said Ecklund earlier this week. “We are trying to build a foundation, which will be more than just racing,” adding that there is lots of behind the scenes work with promotion and education.

The full feature is linked here: http://www.thespec.com/sports/article/481909--thrilled-to-soldier-on-at-daytona

Dufault Looking to Earn Respect, Trust in Daytona Debut

February 10, 2011 | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 9, 2011) - It was evident when the three-day open test for the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards concluded at Daytona International Speedway last month that the series’ newest team and driver were bound and determined to be contenders.

Tony Marks Racing (TMR) and Rookie of the Year candidate Maryeve (pronounced Mary-EV) Dufault (pronounced DU-FAU) will look to keep their momentum train rolling and put their No. 12 Tony Marks Racing Dodge Charger on the map when the ARCA Racing Series kicks off their season on Saturday afternoon with the running of the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200.

Armed with the ageless Larry Moore as their crew chief, Dufault and the TMR team head to the newly re-paved superspeedway looking to kick off their inaugural season on the right foot but also gain the Canadian some attention and experience at one of the series’ most prestigious race tracks.

“This is an incredible opportunity and I surely want to make the best of it,” said Dufault, who joins the ARCA Racing Series tour after a stint in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Mobil 1 and a successful and impressive career in Formula cars. “We had a very productive test and I’m extremely optimistic about the race.”

Even though Dufault, a native of Sorel, Quebec, and TMR realize that they have a fast Dodge nameplate with horsepower from Illmor Engineering, the yellow stripe indicating rookie status on the back bumper of Dufault’s Charger could be her biggest downfall. Still, the team is hoping to show in practice on Thursday afternoon and Saturday morning that even though she may be a rookie, she has a feel and a sense for what is going on around her.

“Daytona will be my first restrictor plate race,” offered Dufault, who currently resides in Redondo Beach, California. “That’s pretty intense for any rookie, but I have a strong team centered on giving me the best they can and in return I’m going to give them 150 percent behind the wheel.”

For car owner and Ohio entrepreneur Tony Marks, the realization of having his own team competing on the high banks of Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway is a dream come true.

“I tested a few years ago in the ARCA Racing Series at Daytona and was anticipating racing myself,” recalled Marks. “However, I decided to take a step back from my own racing career and help launch the racing careers of my son and daughter. I don’t take any of that back for a second. The timing was right for us to be here now, so here we are. This weekend is going to be a proud moment for me, my family, our marketing partners and everyone else who makes Tony Marks Racing possible.”

He added, “Maryeve is the real deal. We’ve tested the heck out of her the last month or so and she’s done a tremendous job. Her throttle response is impressive and her feedback is that of a veteran. She is so determined. You can see in her the desire and passion for racing in all that she does and you know that she is building every day in her quest to reach her ultimate goal of racing in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS). I’m very delighted to have her behind the wheel of the No. 12 Tony Marks Racing Dodge Charger.”

To help develop a new fan-base and center some attentiveness on their new marketing partners, Tony Marks Racing will carry an on-board camera for Saturday’s anticipated thriller. The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 will mark the second consecutive year that a female has hosted an on-board camera.

“I’m very appreciative to carry an on-board camera not only to represent our marketing partners and team but the ARCA Racing Series as well,” Dufault sounded. “Hopefully we’ll be able to provide some excellent video for the race fans and supporters who are watching at the track and at home.”

Veteran NASCAR spotter Mike Calinoff will help guide the avid open-wheeler in her ARCA Racing Series debut. And despite being one of six females to test in January at the “World Center of Racing”, Dufault will be joined by one other female for the first of two restrictor plate events this season.

The first official week of February will be a busy one for TMR. In addition to competition at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway, Jared Marks, the son of car owner Tony Marks, will be competing at New Smyrna (Fla.) International Speedway in his No. 5 Dodge-backed Super Late Model (SLM) and Crate Late Model (CLM) divisions beginning on Friday, February 11, 2011.

The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona (80 laps / 200 miles) is the first of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 48^th ARCA race held at Daytona is a three-day show. Practice begins Thursday, February 10 with a four hour practice session planned from 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Menards pole qualifying presented by Ansell is set for Friday, February 11 slated to begin at 2:00 p.m. A forty-five minute final practice session is etched in on Saturday, February 12^th from 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. The event will take the green flag later that day shortly after 4:30 p.m. The race will be televised live on SPEED with additional race coverage including live timing and scoring and radio broadcast through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com. All times are local.

About Tony Marks Racing (TMR):

Table of Contents

February 09, 2011, 7:20:29 PM | ARCA Racing

Daytona Preview: Kevin Swindell

February 09, 2011, 7:20:29 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Kevin Swindell | ARCA Racing Series Advance

Daytona International Speedway

Daytona Beach, Fla.

February 12, 2011

Kevin Swindell will return to the ARCA Racing Series at Daytona International Speedway on Feb. 12, 2011 for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200. Driving the No. 98 Curb Records Eddie Sharp Racing Toyota Camry, Swindell looks to make his first start at the 2.5-mile track.

Chili Bowl Victor: In January, Swindell competed in the Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Nationals in Tulsa, Okla. The event came down to the last lap, where the 21-year-old driver held off his father, Sammy Swindell, for the championship. The younger Swindell became the first driver in 25 years to win back-to-back championships. In 2010, the then-20-year-old driver became the youngest winner in Chili Bowl history. The Swindell duo has contributed to the last three Chili Bowl titles, with Sammy collecting his fifth title in 2009. He also won in 1989, 1992, 1996 and 1998.
Last Season: Swindell made waves in 2010 in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East, competing in all 10 events. He collected two pole awards, one top-five and four top-10 finishes. At the end of the season, Swindell finished seventh in the points standings. He also made his NASCAR Nationwide Series debut and competed in three events in the series. Swindell competed in one ARCA Racing Series event last season and looks to continue his success in 2011.
ARCA History: Swindell has competed in five events in the ARCA Racing Series in his career. He made his debut in the series in 2006 and competed in four races that season. In 2010, Swindell competed with ESR at Rockingham Speedway, where he took the pole award and finished second in the event.
Racing Experience: Swindell began racing karts at the age of five, before he could even ride a bicycle. Success came early, and Swindell moved to Quarter Midgets. He won World Karting Association Divisional races his first year. By the time he was twelve, he won multiple dirt and pavement kart races and moved up to WKA National competitions. He picked up two National Championships, a Grand National win and seven National race wins in two years. In 2006, Swindell became the youngest driver to win a World of Outlaws main event at 17 years old at the Charlotte Dirt Track and won the 2006 National Sprint Car Rookie of the Year. He teamed up with Kasey Kahne Racing in 2007 to run the USAC Sprint and Midget National Series and finished sixth in the points. In 2010, Swindell won his first Chili Bowl Nationals championship, followed with his back-to-back victory in 2011.
Follow the Action: Get live updates from the track throughout the weekend at www.facebook.com/teamesrand www.twitter.com/TeamESR. Follow Kevin at www.facebook.com/KevinSwindellRacing.com and www.twitter.com/KevinSwindell.
Tune-In: The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 will be broadcast live on SPEED at 4:30 p.m. EST on Feb. 12, 2011. Fans can also catch the audio broadcast locally on WNDB 1150 AM in Daytona Beach, Fla. Live scoring, timing and audio will also be available on ARCARacing.com throughout the week.

Swindell on momentum going into Daytona: “I’m just coming off the Chili Bowl win a couple of weeks ago, which is a pretty big deal as it is one of the biggest short track races these days. To win it two years in a row means a lot to me, especially since no one has ever won it back-to-back. Only a few people have won in more than once, so I think it is good momentum going into Daytona."
On the challenges of Daytona: "I feel like going to the ARCA test is definitely going to help with the race at Daytona. You get to run through a lot of changes, and you get used to the system this is different racing than anyone is used to. The biggest challenge seems to just be survival. It tends to be just getting to the end and being in the right place at the right time."
Darrell Basham Has A Little Help and High Hopes at Daytona

February 09, 2011, 7:20:29 PM | ARCA Racing Series

(MOORESVILLE, N.C. - February 9, 2011) - Darrell Basham has been a fixture in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards garage since 1972, but after he lost almost everything in a mid-November race shop fire, Basham thought his racing career had come to a heartbreaking halt. When Basham rolls into Daytona's famed 2.5-mile superspeedway for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 on Saturday, Feb. 12, it will be thanks to the help and hearts of the ARCA community.

While Basham was away, his race shop erupted in flames, burning to the ground. Losing almost everything, he was faced with the harsh reality that his 30-year racing career, could be coming to an end. Doubtful for the future, Basham's faith was restored when he received an unexpected phone call from a fellow member of the ARCA family.

"My building burnt down over the weekend," explained Basham. "That Monday, Monday morning, Andy (Belmont) called me and said, 'We're going to get you to Daytona, trust me. We're going to get you to Daytona. I've already talked to Nick Ramey (Roush/Yates Engines) about you.'"

Belmont, who knows all about keeping racing in the family, has two of his sons getting in on the act this weekend at DIS. Andrew and Kyle Belmont will be teaming up together to tackle crew chief and car chief responsibilities for the No. 34 Industrial Depot Ford.

"Whatever he (Belmont) can help me with I'll take his advice, he's a good racer," said Basham. "I really like Andy as a person, and I love his kids. He's got the best kids that ever lived. They're great."

Running a superspeedway car given to him by Andy Belmont Racing equipped with an engine Roush/Yates Engines donated, Basham comes to Daytona with renewed spirit and high hopes for a good finish.

"I'm excited about this- this is better equipment than I have ever owned. We have a Roush/ Yates engine, which are some of the best out there. I have some pretty high expectations with this car, and I think I am going to be able to pass some cars this year."

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Darrell Basham and the No. 34 Industrial Tools Ford Fast Facts:

Basham at Daytona: Darrell Basham has made 10 starts at Daytona International Speedway throughout his ARCA Racing Series career. To date, The Henryville, Ind. native has two ninth-place finishes at DIS (1976, 2009).

A Family Affair: Continuing the tradition of Belmont's family-run team, Andrew and Kyle Belmont will be splitting crew chief and car chief duties on the No. 34 Industrial Deport Ford for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200. At only 18 and 16 years old, Andrew and Kyle are sure to be the youngest crew chief/car chief combo in the garage but certainly not the most inexperienced.

This Week's Ford: Darrell Basham will be piloting the car named "Christi". It was formerly a Yates car that was purchased from Christi Passmore. This car has been driven in the ARCA series by Brett Butler and Andy Belmont. The body was a lift- off body from Wood Brothers/JTG Daugherty racing.

Industrial Depot On Board: Basham will sport Industrial Depot on his Ford at Daytona International Speedway. Industrial Depot and Andy Belmont Racing have had a long-standing relationship, but this will be the first time they are on the hood of an ABR car as primary sponsor.

Autographs: Fans will have the chance to meet Darrell Basham and all of their favorite ARCA Racing Series drivers on Saturday, February 12 from 12:30 - 2:00 p.m. EST during an all-access open garage.

Follow Andy Belmont Racing: Follow Andy Belmont Racing at the track or in the race shop by logging on to facebook.com/Andy-Belmont-Racing/250609156945. Follow every race weekend for live updates and photos from the track and throughout the race.

Tune In: The green flag will drop for the start of the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at 4:30 p.m. EST. ARCARacing.com will have live audio and timing and scoring coverage with SPEED carrying the live race broadcast beginning at 4:30 p.m. EST.

Basham Explains: It was a group effort to get to Daytona:

"My building burnt down over the weekend. That Monday, Monday morning Andy called me and said 'We're going to get you to Daytona, trust me. We're going to get you to Daytona. I've already talked to Nick Ramey about you.' I was really, really down. And I just said Andy, let's just see what happens and he said look, let me make this offer to you. I've got a car and I've already talked to Nick, he's going to work on a motor and maybe we can get it and maybe we can't. So, that made me feel some better but he can't do that. How are you going to get all this together? I needed transmissions and gears and he did it. It's beyond me that anyone would have enough goodness in their heart to do this. Andy and Nick together made this happen. I sure hope I don't tear his whole car up."

Kyle Belmont, Crew Chief/ Car Chief, on goals for the No. 34 for Daytona:

"We hope to keep him out of trouble. We already have a game plan set up for how the race is going to go and what we are doing for practice and because it is Daytona you kind of just run what you got."

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About Andy Belmont Racing:

Andy Belmont Racing (andybelmont.com) currently fields race cars in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards. ABR race cars have been winning races and championships for nearly 35 years. Currently, the team fields a full-time ARCA Racing series for two-time ARCA winner and NASCAR standout Chad McCumbee in the No. 1 ModSpace Ford Fusion, John Ferrier in the CGS Imaging Ford and Darrell Basham in the Industrial Depot 34 Ford Fusion.

About Industrial Depot:

Open since 1973, The Industrial Depot is dedicated to providing all fastener, hardware and shop supply needs. For more information on the Industrial Depot and Andy Belmont's race team, please visit: http://theindustrialdepot.com.

Daytona Preview: Jason Bowles

February 09, 2011, 7:20:29 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Jason Bowles | ARCA Racing Series Advance

Daytona International Speedway

Daytona Beach, Fla.

February 12, 2011

Jason Bowles will take to the track for his ARCA Racing Series debut this week at Daytona International Speedway. The Ontario, Calif., native will pilot the No. 6 Rusty Wallace Racing Experience Toyota Camry for Eddie Sharp Racing.

Toyota All-Star Showdown Champion: Bowles started the 2011 racing season with a win in the Toyota All-Star Showdown at Irwindale Speedway. The race for the victory came down to the last restart, where Bowles lined up second with seven laps remaining in the 225-lap race. Holding off NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Champion DJ Kennington, Bowles had a great jump on the restart and took the checkered flag for the championship victory.
ARCA Racing Series Debut: Bowles will make his entrance into the ARCA Racing Series at DIS. The event, which will also be Bowles’ first event at DIS, will not be his first time on the newly-paved track. Bowles and the ESR team tested at the 2.5-mile speedway in January to prepare for the event.
Team ESR: Bowles will reunite with Eddie Sharp Racing for the ARCA Racing Series event. Last season, Bowles piloted the No. 46 ESR Toyota Tundra at Texas Motor Speedway in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series event.
Experience: Bowles is coming off a busy 2010 season. He competed in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and NASCAR K&N West Series. The driver competed in the K&N West Series full-time from 2007-2009 with nine wins, 10 poles, 26 top-fives, 32 top-10s, 2007 NASCAR K&N Pro Series West Sunoco Rookie of the Year and the 2009 Championship. Bowles also made history in 2009 with an average finish of 4.2, the best in series history since 1995 for drivers with 13 or more starts. Bowles began racing go-karts in 1994 and gained experience driving in the Cooper Tires Zetec Championship and Grand-Am Cup ST class. Bowles soon transitioned from open-wheel racing to stock cars and competed in late models and the NASCAR K&N West Series.
Rusty Wallace Racing Experience: The Rusty Wallace Racing Experience operates a one-of-a-kind racing school at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, Calif. The school utilizes NASCAR COT Sprint Cup cars and Triad Racing Technologies Sprint Cup engines incorporates a spotter-driver system instead of the traditional lead-follow format of other schools. The authentic racing experience takes the driver to his or her limits at speeds over 175 mph. For more information, check out www.racewithrusty.com
Follow the Action: Get live updates from the track throughout the weekend at www.facebook.com/teamesrand www.twitter.com/TeamESR. Follow Jason at www.twitter.com/bowlesjason.
Tune-In: The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 will be broadcast live on SPEED at 4:30 p.m. EST on Feb. 12, 2011. Fans can also catch the audio broadcast locally on WNDB 1150 AM in Daytona Beach, Fla. Live scoring, timing and audio will also be available on ARCARacing.com throughout the week.

Bowles on Racing at Daytona:
“I’m really looking forward to carrying momentum from the Toyota All-Star Showdown victory to Daytona with Eddie Sharp Racing and the No. 6 team. The test went really well in Daytona and gave me the chance to test out the draft, which I hadn’t experienced at a superspeedway.”
On the Biggest Challenge of Racing at Daytona;
“The biggest challenge is going to be the draft – getting someone you work really well with out there and making sure that you are in the right place at the right time, especially at the end of the race. Superspeedway racing is like a chess match, and I’m really looking forward to it.”

ARCA Racer Benny Chastain Will "Drive to End Hunger" in 2011

February 09, 2011, 7:20:29 PM | ARCA Racing Series

(WASHINGTON, D.C. - February 9, 2011) - Benny Chastain, driver of the No. 75 Bob Schacht Motorsports ARCA car, will again team with AARP in 2011 to chase his stock car racing dreams—this year while helping a cause. AARP, BSM and Chastain announced a renewal of their sponsorship deal that will put Chastain in a Drive to End Hunger (DTEH) race car for eight races during the 2011 ARCA Racing Series season. DTEH is an initiative of AARP and AARP Foundation to increase awareness of hunger among older Americans, raise funds and find solutions to combat hunger.

“I’m thrilled to take my racing to the next level while serving a cause that can help millions of American seniors,” Chastain said. “This is a chance to rally the ARCA racing community around a terrible problem and help find solutions.”

AARP began its sponsorship of Chastain during the 2010 ARCA season to help the 68-year-old AARP member reach his dream of racing stock cars at the national level. In pursuit of his goal, Chastain will drive the DTEH car in eight ARCA races in 2011, beginning with the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona International Speedway on February 12.

“Benny represents generations of older Americans who are asking themselves, ‘What’s next?’” said AARP Chief Brand Officer Emilio Pardo. “We’re excited to have him back for 2011 to continue chasing his racing dream while giving back to a cause that will help seniors who are struggling.”

DTEH is helping millions of older Americans who are facing hunger across the United States. The effort will engage race fans, corporations and charitable organizations via a text-to-donate program; www.DriveToEndHunger.org; activation at racetracks across the country; further research on the causes and consequences of hunger in older Americans; and an innovative national grant program that will provide resources to address the problem at a local level.

Chastain’s car has been redesigned for 2011 to prominently feature DTEH logos. Images of the car will be available from AARP Media Relations.

Race fans can follow Chastain on Twitter (www.twitter.com/BennyChastain), Facebook (www.facebook.com/BennyChastain) and the web (www.BennyChastain.com). To donate to Drive to End Hunger, visit www.DriveToEndHunger.org or text “hunger” to 50555 (standard text messages rates may apply).

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization with a membership that helps people 50+ have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to either political campaigns or candidates. We produce AARP The Magazine, the definitive voice for 50+ Americans and the world's largest-circulation magazine with nearly 35 million readers; AARP Bulletin, the go-to news source for AARP's millions of members and Americans 50+; AARP VIVA, the only bilingual U.S. publication dedicated exclusively to the 50+ Hispanic community; and our website, AARP.org. AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. We have staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

National Speed Sport News Pairs Up with Bryan Silas, Fast Track Racing for Daytona

February 09, 2011, 7:20:29 PM | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 9, 2011) - The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 is the Automobile Racing Club of America’s (ARCA) version of the Daytona 500, the Super Bowl of Stock Car Racing and with Stuart, Florida native nestled just two and a half hours away from the 2.5-mile superspeedway, it’s no wonder he has already been tapped as a pre-race favorite for the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards season opener at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway.

And, if he isn’t a pre-race favorite because of his notoriety of being a native of the Sunshine State, his team’s announcement of hoisting the historic National Speed Sport News (NSSN), America’s Motorsports Authority as the primary sponsor on the team’s No. 11 Ford Fusion in Saturday afternoon’s race is bound to draw some attention which equals waives of new fan support.

Silas, always known for being one of the series’ most popular drivers will help spread the word of Andy Hillenburg’s Fast Track Blue Collar Hero Driver Challenge presented by Speed Sport News.

Andy Hillenburg’s Fast Track Blue Collar Hero Driver Challenge presented by Speed Sport News is the newest creation in an effort to find racing’s next future star. Set to begin in March and conclude in June at the track known as “The Little Rock” in Rockingham, North Carolina, the challenge is out to breed the next up-and-comers, who will have one shot during the three month contest (25 days of competition will be held during the three month run) and advance from a Fast Track High Performance Driving School car to a full-executed ARCA Racing Series stock car against one of racing’s finest stars all in one day. The overall winner will be approved to compete in ARCA’s return to Lucas Oil Raceway at Indianapolis for the running of the Ansell Protective Gloves 200 on Thursday, July 28, 2011 live on SPEED. The best part is, it’s affordable!

“What an honor it is to be associated with a respectable and award-winning organization like National Speed Sport News,” said Silas, who will make his fifth career start at the 2.5-mile superspeedway Saturday. “Also, what a neat idea Andy (Hillenburg) has created with the Fast Track Blue Collar Hero Driver Challenge. It’s an affordable contest with unimaginable results. Andy has always been on the racer’s side and this challenge fits right into his platform. I’m just thrilled to be associated with it.”

The ARCA pro knows that in order to put his owner’s newest conception into the spotlight, he must have an equal performance from last February. After qualifying a stout and superspeedway career-best of fifth, the Fast Track Racing pilot survived the chaos of the 80-lap event to notch a ninth place finish, his best ever on the 2.5-mile oval.

Silas speaks out freely about last year and how important it would be to kick off his fifth season of ARCA competition again in the right direction. “Last year was a lot of fun,” added Silas, who will make his 92^nd ARCA start this weekend. “We had a good car and were able to capitalize on a strong weekend with a top-10 finish. This year, I’m looking for a little bit more as far as our finishing position is concerned. I’m hoping we can sneak in a top-five or maybe even earn that first win!”

Should Silas be able to pull off the biggest win in his racing career by capturing the checkered flag in the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200, the splashing of Gatorade and cheers and celebration from victory lane would be nothing new to the Fast Track Racing team as two-time DIS winner and former ARCA champion Andy Hillenburg will return to his duties as the primary spotter for the 23-year old sensation.

“It’s always refreshing to have Andy spot,” Silas mentioned. “He brings a sense of calmness over the radio, especially in a very intense and demanding type of race like Daytona. Dave (McClure) will crew chief the car this weekend, so it’s going to feel like old times again. I’m looking forward to having some fun and hopefully kick off the 2011 race season in S-T-Y-L-E!”

Rockingham (N.C) Speedway join National Speed Sport News as an additional sponsor of Silas’s Ford Fusion.

The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona (80 laps / 200 miles) is the first of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 48^th ARCA race held at Daytona is a three-day show. Practice begins Thursday, February 10 with a four hour practice session planned from 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Menards pole qualifying presented by Ansell is set for Friday, February 11 slated to begin at 2:00 p.m. A forty-five minute final practice session is etched in on Saturday, February 12^th from 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. The event will take the green flag later that day shortly after 4:30 p.m. The race will be televised live on SPEED with additional race coverage including live timing and scoring and radio broadcast through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com. All times are local.

For more on Bryan Silas please visit, BryanSilasRacing.com.

For additional information on Andy Hillenburg’s Fast Track Blue Collar Hero Driver Challenge presented by Speed Sport News, please visit FastTrackRacing.com or call 704.455.1700. Hurry fast, because space is limited for this opportunity of a lifetime!

Be sure to get in the groove with NSSN and click online at NationalSpeedSportNews.com.

Licata Signs "Wrong" Sponsor for Daytona

February 09, 2011, 7:20:29 PM | ARCA Racing Series

(LAKE BALBOA, Calif. - February 9, 2011) - Joey Licata, Jr. has announced that WRONG Clothing will sponsor his No. 77 Cunningham Motorsports Dodge in his ARCA Racing Series debut at Daytona International Speedway on February 12.

W.R.O.N.G. (World Riders on New Ground) is a company embedded in the surf, skate, and MX markets for those who “go big and invent new challenges.” Licata’s debut at Daytona will be his chance to go big as he looks to challenge for the win as a rookie.

The ARCA Racing Series cars travel at speeds nearing 200 miles per hour at the newly repaved Daytona International Speedway. Licata ran the sixth fastest lap in the Daytona testing sessions, with an average speed of 185.670 around the 2.5 mile “world center of speed.”

“I am excited to begin this new relationship with W.R.O.N.G. Clothing,” Licata said. “This is a great fit for me and I am proud to represent them in the world of stock car racing.”

Race fans can tune in to SPEED live on Saturday at 1 p.m. Pacific time for the “Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200” to see Licata driving the W.R.O.N.G. Dodge.

“I am hoping that the ARCA and NASCAR fans will get behind W.R.O.N.G. as they help support our awesome sport!” Licata said.

Licata, 19, is a member of the Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle driver development program based in Sacramento, CA. Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle is a NASCAR-oriented program that works with an international roster of talented drivers who have the commitment and potential to succeed in NASCAR racing.

Licata is a six-time IKF Grand National champion and two-time ASA TRUCK SERIES champion. Throughout his career he has accumulated 90+ wins.

Joey Licata, Jr. Racing and Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle thank partners: W.R.O.N.G. Clothing, K&N Filters, Scribner Plastics, Allstar Performance, Sunoco Race Fuels, and Star Racing Supply. Licata would also like to thank supporters Jordan Kidushim and Luke Forstmann.

Joey Licata, Jr. Racing is online at www.joeylicata.com

For more information on Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle, log on to www.winners-circle-racing.com

Milka Duno Aiming for Strong Finish at Daytona International Speedway

February 09, 2011, 7:20:29 PM | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 9, 2011) - Milka Duno may be an ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards rookie, but she is certainly no ordinary rookie driver. As a record-setting, winning driver in the American Le Mans Series and Rolex Sports Car Series, as well as an IndyCar Series competitor, the Venezuelan-native has proven she has what it takes to get to the front of the field. Duno comes to Daytona with a championship team, championship crew chief and the 2010 ARCA Racing Series champion, Patrick Sheltra, as team owner. Combined, Duno and the Sheltra Motorsports team will be ones to watch when the green flag drops on the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 Saturday, February 12 at Daytona International Speedway.

In 2007, with a 2^nd-place overall result, Duno earned the highest finish ever by a female driver in the history of the legendary 24 Hours of Daytona.

Duno took to Daytona International Speedway’s high-banks during the ARCA Racing Series test in January making a strong showing with the Sheltra Motorsports team. While much of the three-day test session was devoted to single car runs and getting Duno reacquainted to a stockcar, she ended the test session 13^th on the speed charts in a field of 58 drivers.

"I'm very excited to get to Daytona,” said Duno. “The team has worked very hard since the test in preparation for the race. We are looking forward to a good result this weekend at the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200."

With only one previous start in the ARCA Racing Series (Daytona, 2010), Duno will be sure to rely on advice from team owner, 2010 champion Patrick Sheltra, to help get her No. 63 Dodge to the front of the pack.

"Daytona is tricky," said the current champion, Sheltra. "I enjoy the superspeedways and will be there to give Milka all the help I can give to get her to the finish line first. Jon Wolfe (crew chief) is one of the best at what he does, and we have the same crew we won the championship with last year. Milka will have a great opportunity to bring home a good finish."

Milka Duno and the No. 63 Dodge Fast Facts:

Duno at Daytona: Duno made her ARCA Racing Series debut at Daytona’s 2.5-mile Superspeedway in 2010. Luck was not on Duno’s side as she was one of many victims of a lap six wreck that relegated her to a 43^rd-place finish.

This Week’s Dodge: Milka Duno will be piloting chassis No. SM. 001 at Daytona International Speedway. This chassis came from Richard Childress Racing and was converted to a Dodge. Patrick Sheltra last used this car to score a fifth-place finish at Daytona and a second-place finish at Talladega Superspeedway in 2010.

Autographs: Fans will have the chance to meet Milka Duno and all of their favorite ARCA Racing Series drivers on Saturday, February 12 from 12:30 – 2:00 p.m. EST during an all-access open garage.

Keep Up With Milka: Want to learn more about Milka Duno? Logon to her official website at www.milkaduno.com.

Crew Chief Jon Wolfe on Daytona Expectations:

“I am looking forward to helping Milka gain valuable rookie experience in the ARCA season opener at Daytona. A top-10 finish would be a really good, realistic goal for us. With the new track surface and the different strategies that will play out now, really anything is possible. I was encouraged with Milka’s progress during the test, and I’m looking forward to a great weekend.”

About Sheltra Motorsports:

Sheltra Motorsports, established in 2007, is in the midst of its fifth season of ARCA Racing Series competition. Owned by Florida-native, Patrick Sheltra, the owner-driver team captured the 2010 ARCA Racing Series driver and owner’s championship titles on the strength of two wins, 12 top-fives and 17 top-10 finishes in 20 events. Sheltra Motorsports is headquartered in Mooresville, N.C., with additional operations in Indiana and Florida. For more information, visit www.sheltramotorsports.com.

About Milka Duno:

Duno has eight major race wins in the highest classes (Prototype) in the American Le Mans Series and Rolex Series and the highest finish ever by a female driver (2^nd Place) in the Rolex 24 at Daytona in the 48-year history of the race. Duno has been competing in the IndyCar Series since 2007. Off the track, Duno is a certified Naval Engineer who holds four master’s degrees, earning the last three simultaneously. Duno is also working through her “Milka Way” program to inspire youth to “Aim for the Stars” and achieve academic excellence. For more information, visit www.milkaduno.com.

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Tuesday, February 08, 2011, 6:34:49 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Industrial Depot to Sponsor Andy Belmont Racing

Tuesday, February 08, 2011, 6:34:49 PM | ARCA Racing Series

(GAINESVILLE, Ga. - February 8, 2011) - Industrial Depot announces primary sponsorship of Darrell Basham's No. 34 and co-sponsorship of Chad McCumbee's No. 1 car for Andy Belmont's 2011 Racing Team in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards.

After working together Andy Belmont Racing (ABR) for five years, this will be the first time the Industrial Depot has been the primary sponsor on an ABR car. Darrell Basham's No. 34 car will have an achromatic color scheme with green lettering displaying Industrial Depot's new logo. The Industrial Depot will provide all of the official hardware and supplies needed for the race cars.

The ARCA Racing Series will kick-off on Saturday, February 12 at the infamous Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. The running of the Lucas Oil Slick mist 200 will be televised live on SPEED at 4:30 p.m. EST with additional race coverage including live timing and scoring and radio broadcast through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com.

About Andy Belmont Racing:

About Industrial Depot:

Kimmel On "WOOP ON WHEELS" Tonight

Tuesday, February 08, 2011, 6:34:49 PM | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 8, 2011) - Frank Kimmel, driver of the No. 44 Ansell/Menards Ford for Kimmel Racing in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards, will be on the radio show "WOOP ON WHEELS," broadcasting on radio and online, tonight at 7:30 p.m. Eastern. Race fans can listen to Kimmel's interview at www.woopfm.com.

Chris Lawson to Make ARCA Racing Series Debut

Tuesday, February 08, 2011, 5:29:12 PM | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 8, 2011) - Chris Lawson will make his ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards debut at Daytona International Speedway for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200.

Although Lawson has three NASCAR Nationwide Series starts, and one NASCAR Camping World Truck start under his belt, this will be his first attempt at an ARCA race. He participated in the test sessions held at Daytona last year in hopes of competing in the 2010 season opener. However, he was unable to pull together enough resources in time for the race.

This year Chris Lawson will be in the No. 18 Ideal Steel Custom Flame Cutting Dodge owned by Dave McClure. However, the decision to run the ARCA season opener wasn’t official until two weeks ago. With not having very much time to prepare the car, it has been some very long nights for Lawson at the race shop, even sleeping there on occasion to make the most out of his time.

Having been involved in racing since age 5 and working within the NASCAR circuit since 18, Chris knows quite a bit about the fabrication and set-up of racecars. However, ARCA is a little bit of fresh territory for him. “Every series is a little different, and has its different rules,” Lawson explains. “I have been very fortunate to get some great advice from some of the best in the series the last few weeks.”

Lawson will have his work cut out for him on and off the track this week at Daytona. He will have some tough competition as there are 51 cars on the preliminary entry list for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200. But off the track he will have the task of playing the crew chief role as well.

“My crew members are pretty limited. It will call for a lot more work on my part, but I can’t complain. It gives me a lot of valuable experience, allows me to identify with the car a lot better, and anticipate the changes that need to be made,” Lawson explained.

Chris Lawson is excited to get on the new pavement at Daytona and excited to have Ideal Steel come on board for the race. Ideal Steel is a family owned business started in Eugene, Oregon that specializes in custom flame cutting and now operates four locations nationwide.

For more on Chris Lawson, visit www.Chrislawson51.com

For more on Ideal Steel, visit www.IdealSteelInc.com

Benny Gordon to Wheel Grant Enfinger Racing Ford Fusion Powered by ROUSHYATES Engines at Daytona

Tuesday, February 08, 2011, 5:29:12 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Benny Gordon345 (DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 8, 2011) - For Benny Gordon, it’s an opportunity of a life time. For Grant Enfinger Racing (GER), it’s a chance to step up to the plate. This Saturday when the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards takes the green flag at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway, Gordon will pilot the No. 09 VSI Ford Fusion with all intentions of putting the Grant Enfinger-owned automobile in victory lane.

Set to make his ARCA debut at “The World Center of Racing”, Gordon, a famed competitor in the USARacing Pro Cup Series returns to the 2.5-mile superspeedway on the heels of setting the fastest time at the official ARCA DIS test just three weeks ago. Not to mention, Gordon will have his biggest cheerleader actually competing in the race as car owner Grant Enfinger will drive a car fielded by 2008 ARCA championship team, Allgaier Motorsports.

Howard Bixman, the team’s crew chief also hopes to guide Gordon to victory circle in his ARCA debut, the first time that would happen since Matt Hawkins succeeded in 2008 at Iowa Speedway.

“We’re hoping for a real strong weekend for the Grant Enfinger Racing Ford Fusion,” said Bixman. “Benny (Gordon) did a tremendous job last month along with this entire GER team. We have since put a lot of time into this car along with the ROUSHYATES Engine program to find a little more speed that will give us that little extra push for the race.”

He continued, “While our focus and attention will be on Benny and the No. 09 VSI Ford Fusion, we’re also going to be keeping our eyes on that No. 36 with Grant (Enfinger) and hoping that the two cars can work together and maybe pull off one of the best finishes in ARCA history.”

Bixman concluded by saying, “without a second thought, this will probably be one of the most competitive and most nerve racking ARCA races ever held at Daytona. The track is incredibly smooth since it’s been re-paved which pretty much throws handling and tires out the window. The race will be determined by smart driving and being at the right place at the right time.”

“It’s going to be fun racing against my own car,” said Enfinger, who nearly soared to victory lane in Gordon’s machine at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway last April. “I know Benny is going to do a great job for my team and our sponsors. Hopefully all the cards will pan out and we can hook-up at the end and be the duo that everyone is chasing.”

Enfinger concluded "I'm very thankful for all our marketing partners that support us, Beasley Allen Law Firm, ROUSHYATES Engines, ROUUSHYATES Performance Parts, FORD Racing and Stanley Industries."

The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona (80 laps / 200 miles) is the first of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 48^th ARCA race held at Daytona is a three-day show. Practice begins Thursday, February 10 with a four hour practice session planned from 1:00-5:00 p.m. Menards pole qualifying presented by Ansell is set for Friday, February 11 slated to begin at 2:00 p.m. A forty-five minute final practice session is etched in on Saturday, February 12^th from 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. The event will take the green flag later that day shortly after 4:30 p.m. The race will be televised live on SPEED with additional race coverage including live timing and scoring and radio broadcast through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com. All times are local.

Matt Merrell, Win-Tron Racing Reunite for Daytona ARCA Season Opener

Tuesday, February 08, 2011, 5:29:12 PM | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 8, 2011) - The last time that Portland, Texas native Matt Merrell sat behind the wheel of a Win-Tron Racing race car he finished 13th at Salem (Ind.) Speedway in the fall of 2009. The race ended a stretch of four races which included two career-best runner-up finishes at Berlin (Mich.) Raceway and Pocono (Pa.) Raceway which was followed by a 10th place outing on the dirt at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds.

It’s been a little more than a year since the former USARacing Pro Cup Series driver has been with the Lakeville, Minnesota-based team but the two are reuniting in hopes of rekindling the magic and success they achieved in 2009 at the “World Center of Racing” for Saturday’s Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona.

Win-Tron Racing, arguably noted as one of the most competitive teams in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards will have to try and shield the rookie stripe of Merrell who despite his 13 career starts has yet to neither conquer nor tackle a restrictor plate track.

Leaning on their No. 32 Red Line Oil Toyota Camry and the experience of Win-Tron wizard crew chief Mike Chaffee, the group is hoping to find themselves in the lead draft when the season-opener draws to a close at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway.

“I cannot begin to describe how excited I am about returning to Win-Tron Racing,” said Merrell, who in 13 contests has accumulated five top-fives and six top-10 finishes. “To get the call from Nate (Thiesse, Win-Tron Racing co car-owner) and Kevin (Cywinski, Win-Tron Racing co car-owner) to drive their piece in what undoubtedly will be the biggest race of my career is not only humbling but an honor.”

Despite a multi-million dollar re-pavement to the 2.5-mile superspeedway, the Win-Tron Racing team declined to participate in an open three-day open test session last month.

“It really doesn’t bother me that we didn’t test,” offered Merrell. “I guess the biggest thing I will be lacking is drafting, but I’m assuming I’ll be able to do that in the two practice sessions leading up to the race. I know to some I’ll be fresh meat in the draft but I’m hoping that the respect that the Win-Tron Racing team has earned will off-set some of that lack of experience.”

For Thiesse, the decision to put Merrell back in the driver’s seat wasn’t hard.

“Matt showed in 2009 that he could get the job done,” sounded Thiesse. “He is an incredible kid with a lot of talent. When the seat became available, it wasn’t difficult to pin-point who we really wanted to put in the Red Line Oil Toyota. We feel that Matt will pick up right where he left off.”

The piece that Win-Tron Racing will sport in Saturday’s season-opener will have all the intentions of giving Merrell the prime opportunity to push his career to the next level. The team has elected to bring back the same Toyota Camry that their 2010 driver Justin Marks sat on the inside of row number two (third), hovered in the top-10 for the entire race before settling for ninth at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway last April.

“As always, the Win-Tron Racing team is giving me a car capable of winning,” offered Merrell. “As it stands right now, we’re only partnered for Daytona, so I would most definitely like to deliver them a good finish that will allow us or someone else to pick up the momentum in Talladega a short time later.”

Thiesse concluded by saying, “We’ve shown that we’re competitive and we can win with one driver or a multitude of drivers. We’re a development team for a reason and hopefully we’ll get the chance to continue that presence in 2011. While, we’re trying to nail down a more productive schedule with Matt, the seat is open following Daytona to breed the newest talent in one of the most diverse racing series available.”

Further information including driver opportunities with Win-Tron Racing is available by visiting win-tronracing.com or contacting Nate Thiesse at 952.469.1839.

The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona (80 laps / 200 miles) is the first of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 48^th ARCA race held at Daytona is a three-day show. Practice begins Thursday, February 10 with a four hour practice session planned from 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Menards pole qualifying presented by Ansell is set for Friday, February 11 slated to begin at 2:00 p.m. A forty-five minute final practice session is etched in on Saturday, February 12^th from 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. The event will take the green flag later that day shortly after 4:30 p.m. The race will be televised live on SPEED with additional race coverage including live timing and scoring and radio broadcast through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com. All times are local.

Daytona Preview: Tim George Jr.

Tuesday, February 08, 2011, 5:29:12 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Tim George Jr., No. 31 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet Impala

Event Preview Fact Sheet

Event/Date: ARCA 200 – February 12, 2011

Venue: Daytona International Speedway

Richard Childress Racing

ARCA Racing Series Race Notes:

· RCR in the ARCA Racing Series … The 2011 season marks the second consecutive year that RCR has fielded a fulltime team in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards. This season, RCR will field two fulltime entries, with Tim George Jr. returning to the seat of the No. 31 RCR Chevrolet and Ty Dillon driving fulltime for RCR in the No. 41 UNOH Chevrolet. The 42-year-old racing organization has fielded drivers in the ARCA Racing Series on a partial schedule in the past, including Kevin Harvick in 1999 and Austin Dillon in 2008 and 2009.

· Restrictor-Plate Racing, ARCA Style… RCR is no stranger to restrictor plate racing in the ARCA Racing Series. Early in his career, Harvick brought the organization to a third-place finish in the October 1999 ARCA race at Talladega.

· Twitter … Follow RCR’s Nos. 31 and 41 ARCA Racing Series teams on the organization’s official ARCA Twitter page - @RCR_ARCA, and on the official RCR twitter page -@RCRRacing. Also follow Tim George Jr. on his official Twitter page - @TimGeorgeJr and Ty Dillon on his official Twitter page - @TyDillon.

· Catch the Action … Flag-to-flag coverage of the ARCA 200 will be televised live on Saturday, February 12 beginning at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on SPEED. Tune into the ARCA Racing Network at http://www.arcaracing.com for live timing and scoring of all on-track activity.

Tim George Jr., No. 31 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet Impala

Race Notes and Quotes:

· This Week’s RCR Chevrolet at Daytona … Tim George Jr. will pilot chassis No. 161 from the Richard Childress Racing ARCA Racing Series stable in this weekend’s ARCA 200. George led laps in this chassis last year at Talladega Superspeedway en route to a third-place finish.

· George’s Daytona History … Tim George Jr. has made two previous appearances at Daytona International Speedway in ARCA Racing Series competition, with a career-best finish of eighth in the 2009 edition of the race after starting 34^th. Last year, he finished 19^th, also after starting 34^th. He has completed all 160 laps he has attempted at the track.

· Getting Used to This Place … George has spent a lot of time at DIS in 2011. In addition to a three day ARCA Open Test and this weekend’s ARCA race, George revisited his road course racing roots, finishing 14th in the Rolex 24 at Daytona on January 29.

· Building Off a Solid Year … Tim George Jr. returns to the seat of the No. 31 RCR Chevrolet following a successful 2010 season that included two top-five and five top-10 finishes over the course of the 20-race ARCA Racing Series. Season highlights included leading laps and battling for the win during the late stages of the series’ race at New Jersey Motorsports Park and leading laps at Talladega Superspeedway en route to a third-place finish.

· Up Close and Personal … Tim George Jr will join teammate Ty Dillon on the Chevrolet Stage for a question-and-answer session with race fans on Saturday, February 12 at Noon. Following the Chevrolet appearance, RCR’s ARCA drivers will meet with race fans at the back of their respective team haulers in the ARCA Garage Area as part of ARCA All Access from 12:30 p.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday. The entire garage area will be open to race fans that have purchased a FanZone Ticket at Daytona.

Tim George Jr. Quotes:

What do you think about the new racing surface at Daytona, based on ARCA testing and competing in the Rolex 24?

“The new racing surface at Daytona has a lot of grip and is great to drive on. I just finished the Rolex 24 weekend there, and the banking feels like it's a lot smoother. I think this will yield closer and more exciting racing. I know my confidence is up after a great test with RCR in the ARCA Racing Series a few weeks ago. There's a bump low between (Turns) 3 and 4, but, other than that, the surface is much smoother than the old track. I think the set ups will be a lot more like Talladega – which I love. We’ll just set the car to go fast since handling is less important now. Of course, everything will change in a big draft.”

Is testing particularly helpful to a driver and team heading into a big race like Daytona?
“Testing helps at a superspeedway like Daytona, but we did not draft at all at the ARCA Open Test. We are scrambling to get my backup car together and didn't want to risk hurting the primary, especially since it's so good! ECR does a great job with their plate motor package and my guys have worked hard to get this car right. We are going back to Daytona to compete for the win.”

Daytona Preview: Ty Dillon

Tuesday, February 08, 2011, 5:29:12 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Ty Dillon, No. 41 University of Northwestern Ohio Chevrolet Impala

Event Preview Fact Sheet

Event/Date: ARCA 200 – February 12, 2011

Venue: Daytona International Speedway

Richard Childress Racing

ARCA Racing Series Race Notes:

· RCR in the ARCA Racing Series … The 2011 season marks the second consecutive year that RCR has fielded a fulltime team in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards. This season, RCR will field two fulltime entries, with Tim George Jr. returning to the seat of the No. 31 RCR Chevrolet and Ty Dillon driving fulltime for RCR in the No. 41 Chevrolet. The 42 year old racing organization has fielded drivers in the ARCA Racing Series on a partial schedule in the past, including Kevin Harvick in 1999 and Austin Dillon in 2008 and 2009.

· Restrictor-plate Racing, ARCA Style… RCR is no stranger to restrictor plate racing in the ARCA Racing Series. Early in his career, Harvick brought the organization to a third-place finish in the October 1999 ARCA race at Talladega.

· Twitter … Follow RCR’s No. 31 and No. 41 ARCA Racing Series teams on the organization’s official ARCA Twitter page - @RCR_ARCA, and on the official RCR twitter page -@RCRRacing. Also follow Tim George Jr. on his official Twitter page - @TimGeorgeJr and Ty Dillon on his official Twitter page - @TyDillon.

Ty Dillon, No. 41 University of Northwestern Ohio Chevrolet Impala

Race Notes and Quotes:

· This Week’s RCR Chevrolet at Daytona … Ty Dillon will pilot chassis No. 89 from the Richard Childress Racing ARCA Racing Series stable in this weekend’s ARCA 200. This No. 41 Chevrolet was built in house by RCR employees over the winter months. Although the car has not yet been tested under race conditions, Dillon did have the opportunity to drive this Chevrolet at Daytona during the ARCA Open Test in January, posting some of the most competitive times of the three day test.

· Dillon’s Daytona History … The ARCA 200 at Daytona marks Dillon’s first attempt at Daytona International Speedway, and his first attempt at restrictor-plate racing. However, the “World Center of Racing” is not completely unfamiliar to the 18-year-old high school senior, as he has been attending Speedweeks with his grandfather, legendary NASCAR car owner Richard Childress, and father, RCR Vice President of Competition Mike Dillon, his entire life. In fact, Dillon and his older brother, Austin, have been a part of several RCR Victory Lane celebrations at DIS, including the 1998 Daytona 500 with Dale Earnhardt, Sr.

· Welcome, UNOH … The University of Northwestern Ohio joins Dillon and RCR as primary sponsor of the No. 41 Chevrolet for Saturday’s ARCA 200. UNOH also serves as the Official High Performance Education University of ARCA.

· Meet Scott Naset … This season, Scott Naset will make the calls on top of the pit box as crew chief of the No. 41 Chevrolet. Naset is a long-time member of the RCR team, serving as truck chief for Austin Dillon’s No. 3 Bass Pro Shops Chevrolet in 2010, and as an experienced car chief in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series for Kevin Harvick.

· Off to Volusia … Austin and Ty Dillon will be racing dirt Modifieds at Volusia Speedway Park as part of the 40^th annual DIRTCar Nationals February 8-15. For more information, visit www.TeamDillonRacing.com.

· Last Season … In three ARCA Racing Series starts in 2010, Dillon earned two wins (Kansas and Rockingham), one pole award (Iowa), and led 59 of 500 laps.

· Up Close and Personal … Dillon will join teammate George Jr. on the Chevrolet Stage for a question-and-answer session with race fans on Saturday, February 12 at Noon. Following the Chevrolet appearance, RCR’s ARCA drivers will meet with race fans at the back of their respective team haulers in the ARCA Garage Area as part of ARCA All Access from 12:30 p.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday. The entire garage area will be open to race fans that have purchased a FanZone Ticket at Daytona.

Ty Dillon Quotes:

Do you feel pressure to perform well based on your success in 2010?
"The Daytona ARCA test went really well for our team, so I think we will be prepared and ready for Daytona when it's time to go there and race. Our No. 41 UNOH Chevrolet is really fast, and the guys are working hard to make it even better. I feel a little bit of pressure to perform well at Daytona based on my successes last season, but I'm confident in my team and in my car. I think my guys are good enough to handle anything that the 2011 ARCA season may hand us.”

What did you find most interesting about Daytona?
"I was impressed with the overall speed of Daytona. The track is really wild, especially being in the draft. I can't wait to get out there with 42 other cars."

Brian Rose Makes Emotional Daytona Return; Set for ARCA Debut

Tuesday, February 08, 2011, 5:29:12 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Rose345 (DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 8, 2011) - Louisville, Ky. native Brian Rose will make an emotional return to Daytona International Speedway for the first time since 2002 Saturday afternoon when the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards waves the green flag on their 2011 season-opener for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200.

Nearly 10 years ago, Rose made his impression in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS) driving the No. 4 SunClear Energy Dodge Ram for Bobby Hamilton Racing (BHR). After qualifying a stout third, Rose led several laps and found himself in contention for his first career NASCAR victory. However, with less than 10 laps remaining, Rose found himself shuffled out of contention and had to settle for fourth.

Switching from trucks to cars and reuniting with his former crew chief Danny Rollins, the duo will look to pull off an upset Saturday afternoon when Brian Rose Motorsports makes its inaugural ARCA Racing Series debut in the No. 19 Team ASE / Harris Trucking Toyota Camry.

The team participated in the open ARCA test at the “World Center of Racing” last month and it was apparent that the sidekicks had not lost any of their momentum. After playing conservatively early, the team turned up the wick and immediately bolted one of the fastest laps of the week.

Deciding to play it safe, the team elected to load up their hauler and trek back home and make the final touches on their Japanese nameplate while also scooping out the perfect race strategy.

“I’m excited about this weekend,” said Rose, who holds 41 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series starts to his credit. “This is my first go-around in ARCA, but I really feel like we’re going to have a shot at winning the race on Saturday. Danny (Rollins) and the boys have done an incredible job with this Toyota and I’m looking forward to see how she performs under race conditions.”

What some might not know is that Rose was curious about what to expect when he climbed in his Team ASE / Harris Trucking Toyota Camry during the test. The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series did not require restrictor plates while the stock-cars of the ARCA Racing Series do which immediately demands a different driving style. It took Rose about two laps to be accustomed to the new challenge, but quickly that became something of the past.

“It was a little different at first,” said Rose referring to the restrictor plate, which is designed to decrease the speed of the cars. “Danny (Rollins, crew chief) was quick to get on the radio and let me know what I was doing wrong. Quickly, I figured it out.”

When asked about his fondest memory of Daytona, Rose quietly replied, “You can never forget the voice of Bobby Hamilton Sr.,” he said. “You knew he meant business and he was a racer. He told me what to do and I knew I had to do it. He was right because doing exactly what he told me to do delivered a strong finish at Daytona.”

Rose drove for Hamilton Sr. in 2002 before the NASCAR icon passed away in 2005 after a stint with neck cancer. The Brian Rose Motorsports team will race in his honor Saturday.

The ARCA season kicks off a busy season for the newly formed Brian Rose Motorsports. In conjunction with the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards, BRM will participate in select NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS), NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS) and Late Model events all in hopes of a full-time touring schedule in 2012.

“In my books, the ARCA Racing Series opens the door to the new racing season. I’ve watched the series grow tremendously over the last couple of years and I expect nothing but a very intense and competitive race. The fans will be standing till the end, guaranteed.”

Lawton Insurance, Battomi and West Coast Autosource join Team ASE and Harris Trucking as associate marketing partners on the No. 19 Brian Rose Motorsports Toyota Camry.

The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona (80 laps / 200 miles) is the first of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 48^th ARCA race held at Daytona is a three-day show. Practice begins Thursday, February 10 with a four hour practice session planned from 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Menards pole qualifying presented by Ansell is set for Friday, February 11 slated to begin at 2:00 p.m. A forty-five minute final practice session is etched in on Saturday, February 12^th from 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. The event will take the green flag later that day shortly after 4:30 p.m. The race will be televised live on SPEED with additional race coverage including live timing and scoring and radio broadcast through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com. All times are local.

More information on Brian Rose, Brian Rose Motorsports and marketing partnership inquiries, please visit the all-new BrianRoseMotorsports.com.

Daytona Agenda Shifts to the Core for Sean Corr, Empire Racing

Tuesday, February 08, 2011, 5:29:12 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Corr

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 8, 2011) - A lot is riding on the performance of Goshen New York’s Sean Corr and his Empire Racing team as the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards kicks off their 2011 schedule this Saturday afternoon at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona.

However, the pressure of figuring out the core; or the foundation of the newly re-paved 2.5-mile speedway is far from the mind of expected ARCA full-time driver Corr when he climbs behind the wheel of his No. 82 Empire Racing Ford Fusion this week.

Displeased with their performance at the open ARCA Racing Series test last month at the famed Daytona Beach, Florida racetrack, the Empire Racing team led by team manager John Bellesfield and crew chief Richard Johns literally went back to the drawing board; to square one with a new game plan.

Following a private test at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway, which yielded better results, the team is optimistic about returning to the “World Center of Racing” for the first of 19 events this season.

“This plate racing is nerve racking,” offered Corr, who will attempt to run for the ARCA championship title in 2011. “The adrenaline starts running before you even leave the shop and continues until you cross underneath that tunnel for the ride home. Despite the tension though, I’m ready to go!”

To help ease his thoughts about the “what if’s”; Corr will strap himself into the driver’s seat of the 18-wheeler Empire Racing hauler and make the eight or so hour trip to the Sunshine State.

“Several of the “bosses” of the team are trying to get me away from driving the truck and concentrate on other things, but it’s my sanctuary,” joked Corr. “I dial in some good tunes, listen to what others are talking about on the C.B. radio and just head South. It relaxes me to drive the hauler and I know personally that the race cars and equipment are getting to the track. I’m sure I’ll get demoted to just the race car driver at some point this year, but I’m going to enjoy it (driving the hauler) as long as I can.”

When Corr’s real job begins on Thursday, with a four-hour practice session, the avid dirt pro stock competitor admits the fun goes away for a little at least, while the seriousness of what has to be done intensifies. Though, Corr confesses, he wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I’m a race car driver; that is what I do,” Corr sounded. “Obviously, we’ve done a lot of work since the Daytona test, but I think we’ll be just fine. We have to use the time allotted to us to our advantage. After qualifying is over on Friday afternoon, I’ll relax a little before buckling in on Saturday afternoon and hope to give the Empire Racing team a finish to shout about.”

The thoughts of capturing a top-five finish or even winning his first ARCA Racing Series race at Daytona is humbling, especially since the Empire Racing team elected to bring a different Ford Fusion back for the kickoff of Speedweeks 2011.

“We took two cars to Talladega and after lengthy discussions, we decided to go with the back-up car as our primary,” stated former Empire Racing crew chief now manager Bellesfield. “We know we have to go to Daytona with our ducks-in-a-row and most importantly get in the show. Once the green flag flies on Saturday, we have the up most faith that Sean and our spotter Keith Barnwell will put us in contention.”

The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona (80 laps / 200 miles) is the first of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 48^th ARCA race held at Daytona is a three-day show. Practice begins Thursday, February 10 with a four hour practice session planned from 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Menards pole qualifying presented by Ansell is set for Friday, February 11 slated to begin at 2:00 p.m. A forty-five minute final practice session is etched in on Saturday, February 12^th from 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. The event will take the green flag later that day shortly after 4:30 p.m. The race will be televised live on SPEED with additional race coverage including live timing and scoring and radio broadcast through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com. All times are local.

For more on Sean Corr, Empire Racing and marketing opportunities for the 2011 racing season, please visit empireracingllc.com.

About Empire Racing:

Kyle Fowler Gears Up for Daytona

Tuesday, February 08, 2011, 5:29:12 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Fowler Venturini11 (CONCORD, N.C. - February 8, 2011) - Venturini Motorsports' history of developing championship drivers is second to none. Now it's Kyle Fowler's turn.

Since 2007, the Driver Development Program has claimed eight drivers who’ve gone on compete in NASCAR’s premier series. Venturini Motorsports new crop of up-and-coming drivers look to add to this storied history includes Fowler as he makes his Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway debut, driving the No. 15 Venturini Motorsports Chevrolet.

Fowler has been to the famed Daytona track several times, but Saturday will be the first time he will be behind the steering wheel as he starts the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 for the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards.

“Daytona is racing’s biggest stage and it’s every drivers dream to race there. Simply arriving on the property gave me goose bumps,” Fowler said. “Restrictor-plate racing is definitely going to be a learning experience for me. I’ve never done it before, but I can’t wait to get in the draft and experience that feeling.”

The Georgia native was raised at the local short-track and grew up racing at the quarter–mile track at Atlanta Motor Speedway, competing in Bandoleros and Legends cars. While racing throughout the Southeast, the 18-year old has made more than 700 career starts.

The Venturini Motorsports rookie is excited with the opportunity to get in the seat of the No. 15 Chevrolet and compete in ARCA’s prize season-opening event.

“I feel like we have an awesome car and with a little luck we will be up front in the end,” Fowler said. “My game plan for the race is to be patient and to make every lap count. My Dad has always said, ‘You can’t win if you don’t finish the race’.”

A rising star in ARCA Racing Series, Fowler gained valuable seat time in the series last season while driving part-time with five starts.

Perhaps having the familiarity from the recent open test session for the ARCA Racing Series at Daytona will pay off for Fowler this weekend. Of the 58 cars on hand for the test, Fowler clocked in at ninth overall, turning a lap of 48.652 seconds at 184.987 mph.

Fowler will battle it out for 2011 Rookie of the Year honors in ARCA as he learns the ropes from owner Billy Venturini and his veteran team at Venturini Motorsports.

Hackenbracht Has A Lot to Prove at Daytona; Readies Second Chance

Tuesday, February 08, 2011, 5:29:12 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Hackenbracht Posed11

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 8, 2011) - Set to make his second career ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards start at Daytona International Speedway this Saturday afternoon for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200, ARCA newcomer Chad Hackenbracht is undoubtedly looking for some redemption.

The 19-year old rising star qualified for his first ever ARCA race last February after a previous year of grueling testing in preparation for his limited outings in 2010. Hackenbracht qualified his No. 58 Tastee Apple Chevrolet Impala SS on-time in the 31st position. In the first two laps of the event, Hackenbracht had drafted into the top-25 but when an accident occurred on lap six, the fast speeds and close competition engulfed the CGH Motorsports team into the incident and relegated them to a disappointing 40th place finish.

A year later, armed with a new Chevrolet Impala SS and rejuvenated confidence, the former Legends Car Series (LCS) driver returns to the “World Center of Racing” looking to prove that he can master the high banks of Daytona.

“I’m looking forward to Daytona this week,” said Hackenbracht, who aims to make his 10^th career ARCA start this weekend. “We came to the test and even though we produced a top-10 time in the overall session, it wasn’t enough. We’ve made some significant changes to our CGH Motorsports race car and I’m anticipating a solid start to the season for us.”

While it can be somewhat painful to rehash on the past, Hackenbracht admits he learned something last February and doesn’t plan to find himself in the same situation again. “That was my first ever restrictor plate race,” the New Philadelphia Ohio native recalled. “We had a good car and were steadily making our way through the field and all heck broke loose ahead of us. I tried to avoid it but we were swept into it along with some other cars. It stunk. It was hard to swallow. You cannot predict what is going to happen at a place like Daytona or Talladega, but being involved in the wreck did make me more aware of what is going on ahead of me.”

Hackenbracht continued, “With our team set to make a run at this championship, we know that we really can’t afford any errors. Our goals are much like the other teams. We want to qualify as near to the front as possible; then find our comfort zone in the race and be able to find ourselves at the right spot at the right time when the checkered flag is near. Hopefully, we used our mulligan at Daytona last year.”

In addition to Tastee Apple, Performance Vehicle Works (PVW) will join the Concord-North Carolina based team as an associate marketing partner for the ARCA season-opener at Daytona. PVW, also located in Concord, North Carolina is a full-service body and repair company owned by former Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates repair master head Timmy McKichan.

“I’m extremely appreciative of Timmy and his team for stepping up and helping out not only with the car but as an associate marketing partner this weekend at Daytona. I didn’t know Timmy before December, but once we were introduced, we really clicked and he really has been helpful in making sure that our team is heading in the right direction. We’re glad to have him on our side.”

Veteran spotter Tobi Whealdon will guide Hackenbracht as the frontstretch spotter for Hackenbracht’s third ever restrictor plate race Saturday afternoon. Current NASCAR driver and mentor J.C. Stout will serve as the team’s backstretch spotter on race day.

In addition to Tastee Apple, Axel Fuel, the Official Energy Drink of CGH Motorsports, Metal Parts Manufacturing, Portable Shades, R2C Performance and Xflex Racers Tape join the family-owned team as associate marketing partners in Saturday’s season-opener.

CGH Motorsports is actively seeking additional marketing partners for the full 2011 ARCA Racing Series schedule. Single, multi and full-season placements are available on the team’s No. 58 entries. Interested parties are urged to contact Jordan Dahl at 570.234.5449 or jordandahl@cghmotorsports.com.

The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona (80 laps / 200 miles) is the first of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 48^th ARCA race held at Daytona is a three-day show. Practice begins Thursday, February 10 with a four hour practice session planned from 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Menards pole qualifying presented by Ansell is set for Friday, February 11 slated to begin at 2:00 p.m. A forty-five minute final practice session is etched in on Saturday, February 12^th from 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. The event will take the green flag later that day shortly after 4:30 p.m. The race will be televised live on SPEED with additional race coverage including live timing and scoring and radio broadcast through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com. All times are local.

For more information on Chad Hackenbracht and CGH Motorsports, please visit ChadHackenbracht.com and CGHMotorsports.com.

About CGH Motorsports:

CGH Motorsports (CGHMotorsports.com), established in 2007 by Ohio entrepreneur Greg Hackenbracht is located in a 10,000 sq. foot facility located in Concord, North Carolina. CGH Motorsports is home of rising sensation Chad Hackenbracht, who competed in nine ARCA Racing Series races in 2010 after an aggressive ARCA testing schedule in 2009. Chad Hackenbracht is the 2008 National Asphalt Legends champion, winning 33 percent of his races and finishing in the top-10, 85 percent of the events he competed in. The team will step up their commitment from a partial schedule and prepare for a hopeful full-season ARCA championship assault beginning in February 2011.

Photo by Deborah Young Studio

Hudson Looking to Make Most of Daytona Opportunity

Tuesday, February 08, 2011, 5:29:12 PM | ARCA Racing Series

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - February 8, 2011) - In 2002, Kelly Clarkson became the very first American Idol by stretching her vocal cords with her smashing debut hit, “A Moment Like This.” While Owensboro, Kentucky native Brett Hudson may not fit into her particular music genre; Hudson though admits that his “Moment Like This” will come this Saturday afternoon when the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards takes the green flag in the 2011 season-opener at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway.

Hudson, 23 will attempt to make his 22nd career ARCA start at “The World Center of Racing” but his first ever at a superspeedway. In fact, the famed street-stock driver hasn’t participated in an ARCA race over a mile-long since 2008. So, when the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona revs up this Saturday on SPEED, Hudson will be looking to make up for lost time.

With the help of veteran ARCA crew chief John Hayden, car chief Jared Bartlett, Joey Arrington and Tony Cola from Arrington Engines, Gene Patient of Gene Patient Fabrication and a host of volunteers, Hudson’s dream of competing on a restrictor plate track will come to life. The Brett Hudson Motorsports (BHM) team returns to the 2.5-mile monster on a wave of momentum after solid testing results last month proved that the team’s No. 94 Hudson Performance Drivelines Dodge Charger will be competitive.

While Hudson would like to think he has a shot at winning the biggest race of the season, the Bluegrass native is staying realistic and is just hoping to leave the track with a strong finish and security that he still can pedal to the front.

“This is a dream come true,” said Hudson, who carries a career-best finish of fourth at Salem (Ind.) Speedway in 2007. “We’ve been trying hard for so many years to make this dream a reality and with the help of so many people; we’re finally going to be able to make it happen.”

With the recent re-pavement of the Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway, Hudson won’t know what to expect compared to the old bumpy and decisive DIS, but he admits he has more than just the anticipation of new asphalt to worry about.

“I really don’t have a whole lot of drafting experience, so I’m optimistic to see how much everyone is going to work with me during the race,” Hudson explained. “The good thing is that our team has a lot of experience and I’ll have a great set of eyes from above in the spotter’s stand, so hopefully when it’s time to go, I’ll be ready and have a buddy or two.”

He continued, “Our biggest goal right now is to qualify strong, keep our No. 94 Hudson Performance Drivelines Dodge Charger on the yellow line and have a shot when that white flag is drawn.”

When asked what his 2011 racing season will consist of, Hudson replied with, “hopefully more than the past couple of years. It’s hard not to be able to race on a more consistent basis, but this is a family-owned team, so with sponsorship still being tough these days, we’re watching and saving our pennies. Hopefully if we leave Daytona clean, we’ll go to Talladega in April. If not, we’ll just see where we land.”

In addition to Hudson Performance Drivelines, Arrington Engines, G&A Trucking, Gene Patient Fabrication (GPF) and Warricktubing.com join the team as associate marketing partners in Saturday’s season-opener.

Additional sponsorship opportunities are still available for this weekend’s activities. Interested parties are encouraged to contact Lisa Hudson of Brett Hudson Motorsports at 270.929.2160 or hudson00@adelphia.net.

The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona (80 laps / 200 miles) is the first of 19 events on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The 48^th ARCA race held at Daytona is a three-day show. Practice begins Thursday, February 10 with a four hour practice session planned from 1:00-5:00 p.m. Menards pole qualifying presented by Ansell is set for Friday, February 11 slated to begin at 2:00 p.m. A forty-five minute final practice session is etched in on Saturday, February 12^th from 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. The event will take the green flag later that day shortly after 4:30 p.m. The race will be televised live on SPEED with additional race coverage including live timing and scoring and radio broadcast through the ARCA Racing Network (ARN) online at arcaracing.com. All times are local.

Ron Sutton Winner's Circle Driver to Join ARCA in 2011

Tuesday, February 08, 2011, 4:23:03 PM | ARCA Racing Series

(LAKE BALBOA, Calif. - February 8, 2011) - The 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards will be joined by talented 19-year-old rookie Joey Licata Jr. driving for Cunningham Motorsports.

Licata, a member of the Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle driver development program, won back-to-back championship in the ASA TRUCK SERIES and also won his first career NASCAR Modified race in 2010. Licata also made several starts for Tim Huddleston’s High Point Racing at TOYOTA Speedway in a NASCAR Late Model.

With crew chief Jonathan Davis at the helm, the Kerry Sherer-owned Cunningham Motorsports should be a threat right out of the box at Daytona. Cunningham Motorsports is most notably known for its success in 2009 with Penske Development Driver Parker Kligerman, who finished second in the standings with nine victories as a rookie.

A litany of talented drivers has competed for the team over the years, including Josh Wise, Kevin Swindell, Scott Lagasse, Jr., and more.

Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle is a NASCAR-oriented driver development program that works with an international roster of talented drivers who have the commitment and potential to succeed in NASCAR racing.

The success Licata enjoyed throughout 2010 on the West Coast earned him the opportunity to test with Cunningham Motorsports last fall. Licata impressed team representatives in the testing session and was offered the chance to drive for Cunningham in 2011.

Licata made his official ARCA Racing Series debut at Rockingham Speedway, where he practiced in the top-three all day for Marks Racing before a practice crash ended his weekend early.

Poised to make a big impact this season, Licata came out of the gate with a huge performance in the Daytona testing in January. Although it was his first experience on the freshly repaved Daytona International Speedway, Licata ran sixth overall for the week out of nearly 60 competitors that participated. His best speed was 185.670 miles per hour.

Licata is looking forward to competing in the “Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200” at Daytona, which will be live on SPEED on February 12.

“Winning the race isn’t that farfetched on this one with all the updates we have made since the test,” Licata said. “It’s a privilege to be racing for Cunningham Motorsports and a big step in my career.”

Licata will be the first driver from Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle to compete in the ARCA Racing Series

“I truly feel that Joey has earned this opportunity and has the skills to make the most of it,” Driver Coach Ron Sutton said. “Joey has the talent to race with the best of them and is very prepared to succeed in ARCA and beyond!”

Joey Licata, Jr. Racing and Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle thank partners: K&N Filters, Scribner Plastics, Allstar Performance, Sunoco Race Fuels, and Star Racing Supply. Licata would also like to thank supporters Jordan Kidushim and Luke Forstmann.

Joey Licata, Jr. Racing is online at www.joeylicata.com

For more information on Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle, log on to www.winners-circle-racing.com

John Ferrier Looking to Leave a Mark at Daytona with Andy Belmont Racing

Monday, February 07, 2011, 8:18:08 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Ferrier345 (MOORESVILLE, N.C. - February 7, 2011) - While John Ferrier may not be a familiar name among ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards regulars, it is sure to be one to watch when the ARCA Racing Series pulls into Daytona International Speedway for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 on Saturday, February 12. Paired with a veteran driver and team owner in Andy Belmont along with well-accomplished teammate Chad McCumbee, Ferrier has high expectations for a strong run on Daytona's infamous high-banks.

"My expectations are very high," said Ferrier. "I have a very competitive race car with Roush/Yates power. It has had a lot of really good aero work done to it by AJ Johnson. He built a brand new body for us, specifically for Daytona, so my expectations are high. My goal is to come out of Daytona with a top-10 finish."

Ferrier, a Middletown, N.Y. native, may only have three previous ARCA Racing Series starts (Daytona, Talladega, Pocono), but he has over 25 years of experience behind the wheel of a racecar. The dirt-track driver got his start as a motocross racer in 1985 and hasn't looked back since. Racing Modifieds in the northeast, his connection with team owner Andy Belmont runs much deeper than a driver/owner connection.

"Both Andy and I are from up around this area (N.Y.)," explained Ferrier. "He has a lot of dirt modified experience as well as I do, and we know a lot of the same people from racing up here in the Northeast. Andy did race modifieds up here as well. We never competed against each other, when he was racing up here I was still racing motocross, but that is how I ended up getting his name and getting tied in with him. I know Andy has a top-notch team and organization so I'm really looking forward to getting down to Daytona."

One would think Daytona's 2.5-mile oval would be a huge challenge for a driver used to slinging dirt on the short tracks, but Ferrier proved otherwise in his first and only Daytona start in 2009. Ferrier competed in the top-10 for much of the race, and was looking to stage a late climb to the top-five when an oil pump failed with only nine laps to go. Ferrier ultimately finished 17^th, but that run only fueled his fire for a top finish this year at one of the most prolific tracks in all of motorsports.

"Daytona is the Superbowl of stock car racing, it always is," said the N.Y. native. "If you ask any driver if they can start anywhere it would definitely be Daytona, there is no question about it. Speedweeks at Daytona is a huge event worldwide, so for me to take part in that, it really means something."

When the checkered flag falls on Saturday's ARCA Racing Series season-opener, Ferrier's biggest goal is to see an ABR car cross the finish line first.

"My commitment to Andy Belmont Racing is to have an ABR car finish first. If I can help Chad (McCumbee) get there I absolutely will, and I'm sure he feels the same way. Ultimately the goal is to put ABR in the winner's circle."

John Ferrier and the No. 14 CGS Imaging Ford Fast Facts:

Ferrier at Daytona: Ferrier made one previous start at Daytona International Speedway in 2009 driving for Randy Baker. After a late change was made to his car after qualifying, Ferrier was forced to start from the 39^th position. Ferrier raced his way into the top-10, where he remained until an oil line broke forcing him to retire from the race 11 laps shy of the finish. Ferrier came home with a 17^th-place finish in his first ARCA Racing Series start.

Did You Know?: Ferrier will have a strong Stewart/Haas racing connection in Daytona. Crew Chief Mark Gibson is the brother of Tony Gibson who is Ryan Newman's Crew Chief. Ferrier will also have Tony Stewart's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series spotter Bob Jeffery calling the shots from high above Daytona International Speedway.

This Week's Ford: John Ferrier will be piloting chassis No. RK271/704 at Daytona International Speedway. This is a former Roush Racing car that was originally driven by Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and was used as a backup car for ABR in 2010.

Autographs: Fans will have the chance to meet John Ferrier and all of their favorite ARCA Racing Series drivers on Saturday, February 12 from 12:30 - 2:00 p.m. EST during an all-access open garage.

Ferrier on racing with teammate Chad McCumbee:

"Having Chad McCumbee as a teammate at Daytona is really exciting and will definitely be an advantage. I mean Chad is a NASCAR Driver, he had Sprint Cup starts, and that is a positive thing that is going to help me a ton. I have a good idea that when we get down to Daytona Andy (Belmont) will really set us down as a team and have us come up with a strategy, because the way the pavement is down there it's not going to be a surprise if you get shuffled all the way around the track. There is nobody I would rather work with in the draft than a guy like Chad who has a lot of experience."

Ferrier on racing on Daytona's new pavement:

"I tested on the new pavement during the ARCA test in January, and I loved it. It is very similar to Talladega. There's just a bump between turns three and four, and I honestly wouldn't even call it a bump. I would call it more of an imperfection in the pavement. I love it. I think it's great. The old pavement could definitely be a handful when you were running in a pack of cars. This should definitely tighten things up, it will be pretty exciting."

###

About Andy Belmont Racing:

Ricky Byers Back on Track at Daytona

Monday, February 07, 2011, 7:12:56 PM | ARCA Racing Series

By Charles Robinson

For those of you that have been following my blogs since I was writing under The Fifth Turn will remember ARCA driver Ricky Byers. I first interviewed Ricky back in December 2009 when he was looking for a sponsor for his “Racing for a Cure.” To date, Byers still continues his vision of locking in a sponsor(s) for the upcoming 2011 ARCA racing season to help him with the funding for finding the cure for Cancer.

I recently received a text message from Ricky with good news. Byers will soon have a chance to put his “Racing for a Cure” Chevy back on the track. Thanks in part to some sponsorship opportunities, Byers will be racing in the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona International Speedway on February 12, 2011. Byers will have the opportunity to hopefully get air time for his “Racing for a Cure” Chevy and pick up a sponsor or sponsors in the near future.

Byers, as some of you may already know, has previously triumphed two bouts with squamous cell carcinoma (the same cancer that claimed Bobby Hamilton’s life back in January 2007) and as a result, lost a vocal cord. Byers wants to “Race for a Cure” and will donate all his winnings, merchandise and promotional earnings from racing to cancer research.

Byers was previously at Daytona International Speedway for an ARCA test session in January. I asked him what he thought about the new racing surface – “Loved the new surface. It is going to make for some exciting and competitive racing,” Byers said.

MEET RICKY

Ricky will be with the rest of the ARCA drivers for an open garage/autograph session on February 12th at 12:30pm – 2:00pm.

Ricky Byers Racing has a fan page on Facebook and he can also be followed on Twitter at www.twitter.com/RickyB1363. Donations are being accepted through his website at www.rickybyersracing.com. If you would like to donate by mail to Ricky Byers “Race for a Cure,” please send donations to:

P.O. Box 100033

Irondale, AL 35210

Canadian Maryeve Dufault Ready to Tackle Daytona in ARCA Season Opener

Monday, February 07, 2011, 7:12:56 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Dufault320 (DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - 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 28^th 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 30^th 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 Keselowski 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.

About Tony Marks Racing (TMR):

Photo by Michael Voorhees

"Ragin' Cajun" Hal Martin Brings Louisiana Flavor to ARCA; Announces NOLA Motorsports Park as Primary Sponsor

Monday, February 07, 2011, 11:18:33 AM | ARCA Racing Series

Martin Nola345 (MOORESVILLE, N.C. - February 7, 2011) - Aptly nicknamed Venturini Motorsports driver Hal Martin, or the "Ragin' Cajun" - announces NOLA Motorsports Park as the Primary Sponsor at the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 on February 12th at Daytona International Speedway. The Gulf Coast native will wheel the legendary No. 55 for Venturini Motorsports and its championship team in select races in 2011.

NOLA Motorsports Park, featuring the longest road course in North America, brings a new concept to traditional racing-only venues - a family-oriented track facility strategically placed just 20 minutes from the famed New Orleans French Quarter. Martin, racing the No. 55 NOLA Motorsports Park Toyota Camry after a successful Hoosier tire test in December, as well as a chart-dominating official ARCA test session in January, is confident he'll make the grade at his third appearance in less than 3 months at Daytona.

"I've done a lot of preparation coming into this race - it's the most important race of the year," Martin said. "I couldn't ask for a better fit for sponsorship, because NOLA Motorsports Park is an up and coming race track in my local area. I'm an up and coming driver in the ARCA Series, and I look to prove that even more on the track. We had a very successful team outing at the test in January, and I'm confident that we made the right setup changes with the small details to make us strong. Competition is going to be heavy - so I'm ready to roll with NOLA Motorsports Park and the signature 'Speed De Lis' on the hood!"

Mitch Wright, General Manager of NOLA Motorsports Park, is optimistic about Martin's potential in 2011. "What a talent Hal Martin is...we're so excited to be able to support a local Louisiana racer with his caliber of talent. It's a rare thing - you can count the number of successful drivers on one hand from our area. That's what makes it special, and it also lends a great spotlight to what we're trying to do, which is also rare. Bringing the longest road course in North America, as well as elite-style racing to families in greater New Orleans and Louisiana as a whole, is also something that is special."

Despite the fact that Martin did not get behind the wheel of his first car until he was 15 years old, his success came at early with the Louisiana State Shifter Kart Championship in 2004. After completing several successful prestigious driving programs, Martin also went on to become the Mobile International Speedway Track Champion in the Pro Late Model Division in 2007. He was also crowned Louisiana State Champion in 2007 by Late Model Digest and took two more wins at gulf coast tracks in 2008.

DAYTONA: PREPARATION IS KEY

Martin, one of only a handful of college graduates in stock car racing - as a mechanical engineering graduate from the University of New Orleans - was also a top-10 finisher at the 2010 ARCA race in Talladega for Venturini Motorsports. Martin began his 2011 season piloting a Venturini Motorsports Toyota at the newly-repaved 2.5-mile Daytona International Speedway for two days of Hoosier Tire testing in December. He then dominated the speed charts at the ARCA Series three-day open testing in January, opening eyes in both the press box and the team stables as to his 2011 potential.

"I've been doing a lot of prep work in general, getting ready for Daytona," Martin continued. "My workout routine has included a lot of endurance training to simulate the grueling weight this type of race can have on my body. I've also done a lot of weight training. Studying old ARCA races for the draft has helped too - as an engineer, I'm hyper specific on my lines and my efficiency. The computer simulator has also become my best friend - running Daytona and Talladega to get used to running in the big packs again. I just can't wait to get on track and hammer down."

Martin plans to make five official starts with Venturini Motorsports in 2011 - to include Daytona, Talladega, Chicagoland, Pocono and Michigan. This will be the second official start for Martin on the team & his seventh career ARCA start - he stepped in the no. 35 Venturini Motorsports car at Talladega Superspeedway in 2010, where he finished 10th.

DAYTONA PREVIEW

Chassis Info:
No. 55 NOLA Motorsports Park Toyota Camry: Chassis No. 0083 built by Venturini Motorsports and PME Engines. First track appearance by this chassis with Hal Martin behind the wheel; multiple appearances previously in the No. 55.

This is the same chassis that Steve Arpin ran in 2010 where he qualified and finished 10th. Ryan Fischer and Venturini Motorsports previously raced the chassis in the 2009 Daytona ARCA race.

Venturini Motorsports Team:

Owner: Billy Venturini/Venturini Motorsports

Chassis: 0083

Crew Chief: John Quinn
Race: Saturday, February 12th, 2011

Length: 200 miles

Track Layout: 2.5 mile superspeedway

SCHEDULE:

TV: SPEED TV Prerace 4pm, Race 4:30pm EST

ABOUT NOLA MOTORSPORTS PARK

NOLA Motorsports Park brings a new concept to traditional racing-only venues - a family-oriented track facility strategically positioned just 20 minutes from the historic New Orleans French Quarter. NOLA Motorsports Park features the longest road course in North America and offers public programs, karting, track days, driving schools, concierge services and memberships for year round driving. The facility is nearing completion with a scheduled opening in the Summer of 2011. For more information on the facility and to keep track of Hal Martin's progress, visit www.NOLAmotor.com. Find the facility on Facebook at NOLA Motorsports Park.

ABOUT HAL MARTIN:

Martin, in only four years of stock car racing and limited starts, has 36 top 5 finishes and 37 top 10 finishes under his belt in ARCA Series presented by Menards, Pro Late Models, ASA Late Models. Martin also holds the title of 2007 Mobile International Speedway Track Champion; 2007 Louisiana State Champion; and track record holder at Mobile International Speedway. Off the track, Martin is a certified Mechanical Engineer with a degree from the University of New Orleans. His 2011 plans include driving in the esteemed Venturini Motorsports stable under the ARCA Series presented by Menards. For more information, visit www.HalMartinRacing.com. Facebook: Hal Martin (Athlete). Twitter: @HalMartinRacing.

Three-Time ARCA Winner Steve Arpin Locked in for Daytona

Monday, February 07, 2011, 11:18:33 AM | ARCA Racing Series

(CONCORD, N.C. - February 3, 2011) - Two time ARCA Racing Series Most Popular Driver Steve Arpin will return to the driver's seat of the No. 25 Mike's Hard Lemonade Toyota for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway on Saturday, Feb. 12 for Venturini Motorsports. The young Canadian heads to the hallowed grounds for the first race of the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards season with some familiarity and only one mission - to bring home the win.

Arpin was impressive during his first full season with Venturini Motorsports, winning the most races of any driver competing in the ARCA Series with three wins in the No.55 Mike's Hard Lemonade Toyota.

While only competing in 18 of the 20 ARCA Racing Series events, as he drove in seven races for JR Motorsports in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, Arpin went on to finish 12th in the final ARCA Series standings. The three victories came at three very diverse tracks, the high banked short track of Salem (Ind.) Speedway and then onto the 1 ½ mile intermediate track at Texas Motor Speedway in April and finally to the 1 mile dirt oval at DuQuoin (Ill.) State Fairgrounds in September. Arpin also had seven top-five and 10 top-10 finishes throughout the 2010 ARCA Series racing season.

While those were impressive stats for Arpin, one of his biggest accomplishments in the 2010 season was earning the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards Most Popular Driver Award for the second consecutive year.

This week, Arpin and Venturini Motorsports will embark on another race together, with the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200.

The up and coming star recently took his turn on the high banks of the newly re-paved Daytona for his first laps on the new racing surface in the ARCA-sanctioned open test session on January 11-13. Shaking down the new racing surface, he drove the Mike's Hard Lemonade Toyota to a fast lap of 48.660 seconds (184.957 mph), 10th overall, during the test.

"I think it (the re-pavement) is going to make for some real exciting racing, we are going to see a whole new Daytona," Arpin said. "This year I think you are going to see a lot tighter packs, a lot more three-wide racing with the amount of grip the track has."

The No.25 Toyota will host the black and yellow Mike's Hard Lemonade paint scheme once again at Daytona International Speedway.

"It's great having Mike's Hard Lemonade back with us this year, stated Arpin. "Last year was a great success for everyone involved and we are excited about our continued partnership."

Veteran crew chief and 2010 Crew Chief of the Year, Kevin Reed will be sitting atop the pit box with hopes of leading Venturini Motorsports to its first victory at Daytona.

"Venturini's has always put a great effort into Daytona," said Arpin, the 2010 Inside Track Reader's Choice Awards Canadian Racer of the Year. "The problem with restrictor plate racing is that anything can happen and you have to play everyone 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."

This time around, Arpin and Venturini Motorsports have higher expectations for the race ahead.

For more on Steve Arpin visit www.stevearpin.net

Twitter.com/stevearpin

Follow Steve on Facebook @

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Steve-Arpin/122100851133518

Empire Racing Delivers Top-Five Outing at Daytona, Vows for Improvement

Wednesday, January 19, 2011, 1:34:11 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Corr Empire (DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - January 19, 2011) - Without question, anytime you can post a top-five speed at the “World Center of Racing” otherwise known as Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway, you should be tickled. However for Sean Corr and his Empire Racing team, the lap time was no reason to celebrate. Instead it put a simple period to a big question.

While the No. 82 Empire Racing Ford Fusion showed how strong it was in the drafting session on Wednesday afternoon, the team was baffled with the performance of their Ford Fusion during single-car runs which left the team literally scratching their heads.

Rest assured though when the Empire Racing team returns to the Sunshine State in less than a month, crew chief Richard Johns and team manager John Bellesfield will have a new game plan in effect and will execute their method in order to give their driver Sean Corr a chance to taste victory in the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona.

“We can’t say we’re completely satisfied with the Daytona test,” said Corr who intends to run the full 2011 ARCA Racing Series schedule. “It just seems like no matter what we did, we could not get the car to respond in single-car runs. The frustration was obvious in the garage area, but that is just because these guys want to win. We know we have a team capable of doing so, we just need to go back and regroup.”

Bellesfield, who turned the crew chief wrenches to Johns in January, is extremely optimistic about the first of 19 races on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series calendar.

“The good thing is that we have a list a mile-long that we think that will help us a ton for the race,” he explained. “Sean did a good job communicating with the team and we appreciate his patience and support as we worked through what could only be described as a couple of discouraging days. We’re not going to let this test get us down though. We’re tough as nails and we will come back and be stronger than ever in a couple of weeks. Even though we had some bumps along the way, the track time was precious and we still learned a lot.”

Grant Enfinger, whose posted the second-fastest time overall during the three-day open ARCA Racing Series test at the 2.5-mile superspeedway opted to hop in the No. 82 automobile during the week to give his own opinion on the overall performance of the team’s blue oval. After a few laps, Enfinger noted the exact feelings that Corr was experiencing.

“I appreciate Grant (Enfinger) stepping away from his roles here at Daytona to help us out,” added Corr, who intends to make his second career start at the “World Center of Racing” next month. “His feedback was nearly identical to mine, so that made me feel good. It’s a test session and we were there to learn, so we’ll just go back to the shop and continue to work hard and I’m sure we’ll be fine.”

When asked about the new pavement surface at the Daytona Beach, Florida-historic race track, Corr wasn’t shy to explain his feelings. “You can literally eat a sandwich on the backstretch if you wanted too. It’s that smooth. In my eyes, it’s going to be a very intense race, but I am looking forward to every second of it.”

The team still enters the 58^th year of ARCA competition without the foundation of a primary marketing partner. However, the team feels they are close to making some announcements in-time for the first of 19 ARCA races this season.

For more on Sean Corr, Empire Racing and marketing opportunities for the 2011 racing season, please visit empireracingllc.com.

CGH Motorsports, Chad Hackenbracht Thankful For Daytona Test

Wednesday, January 19, 2011, 1:34:11 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Hackenbracht Car Daytona Test1 (DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - January 19, 2011) - CGH Motorsports heads into the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards season locked and loaded hoping to make an impression that will allow the family-owned team to compete in the full schedule. And thanks to an overall top-10 outing in the official Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway open test last week, the team is confident they are heading in the right direction.

Driven by 19-year old Chad Hackenbracht, Hackenbracht unofficially posted the seventh fastest time of the three-day test on Wednesday afternoon after whipping his No. 58 Tastee Apple Chevrolet Impala SS around the 2.5-mile superspeedway in 48.522 seconds at 185.483 miles per hour, after being swept into a heavy draft while attempting to make a single-car run at DIS.

Still with the favorable result, the CGH Motorsports team will make a decision this week and decide which of the two Impala SS superspeedway bowtie's available will put their Concord, North Carolina-based team in the limelight for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona, set for Saturday, January 12^th, 2011 live on SPEED.

“We made some serious changes to our No. 58 Tastee Apple Chevrolet Impala SS to put up that lap,” said Hackenbracht, who intends to make his second appearance at the “World Center of Racing” next month. “While the car was strong, it’s not a set-up that we would feel comfortable with for the race, so we’re going to go back to the drawing board and put a setup together that should work to our advantage for both qualifying and the race.”

The former Legend Car Series (LCS) pilot added, “restrictor plate racing is a lot of fun but it can drive you nuts. You want to go out there and be strong by yourself and in the draft. I have a feeling that we’re going to be strong in qualifying; we just need to make sure our Tastee Apple Chevrolet will be able to maneuver from the back to the front and vice-versa. The team has already put a “to-do” list together to better prepare ourselves for what we like to think as the “Super Bowl” of our racing season. It’s going to be a busy couple of weeks but hopefully all the work will pay off with a good finish in the race.”

Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway recently went through a major renovation which included a complete re-pavement of the 2.5-mile monster facility. Hackenbracht described the new track’s asphalt as soothing. “They did a great job re-paving the track,” sounded Hackenbracht, who intends to juggle a full-time college schedule while also hoping to become the next ARCA Racing Series champion. “It’s a lot like Talladega but still has that Daytona vibe. The race will not only be electrifying on the track but in the stands too.”

About CGH Motorsports:

TEAM COMMUNICATIONS CONTACT:

NAME: Chris Knight, Knight Motorsports Management

PHONE: 239.834.9797

EMAIL: chris@chrisknightpr.com

Brian Rose Motorsports Blossoms in Daytona Open Test

Wednesday, January 19, 2011, 1:34:11 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Brian Rose Motorsports (DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - January 19, 2011) - They may be one of the newest teams in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards garage, but Brian Rose Motorsports (BRM) left Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway looking like pros as the newly organized team left the grounds with solid results leaving the group itching to return to the “World Center of Racing.”

Stalled by a monstrous winter storm that nearly crippled much of the mid-west and eastern states, Brian Rose Motorsports’ tango with Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway would be stalled until Wednesday, allowing just two days for the Danny Rollins-led team to strut their stuff.

By the conclusion of day number two and using the words of some of their competition, “they are on their game.”

Unloading the No. 4 Harris Trucking / Team ASE Toyota Camry, Brian Rose, a Louisville, Kentucky native tackled the newly re-paved Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway for the first time on Wednesday afternoon. The team maneuvered the 17^th fastest lap during the four-hour session by bolting his Japanese nameplate around the 2.5-mile superspeedway in 48.965 seconds or 183.805 miles per hour in a single-car run.

For Rose, the opportunity to return to Daytona is like a second chance. In 2002, the avid racecar driver piloted a Bobby Hamilton Racing (BHR) Dodge Ram to an impressive third place finish after qualifying fourth. In less than a month, Rose and his posse will return to the Daytona Beach racetrack eyeing the biggest win of his racing career thus far.

“We’re pretty happy,” said Rose on Wednesday afternoon. “We’re not finished yet though. We were just shaking our No. 4 Harris Trucking / Team ASE Toyota Camry down, making sure we didn’t have any major issues. Danny (Rollins) and I will talk and I think we can deliver bigger and better things on Thursday.”

Delivering is exactly what the BRM team did the following day.

In the morning non-drafting session, Rose and his team made a mock-qualification run and blistered the track in 49.290 seconds transferring to a speed of 182.593 miles per hour, raising the team to fifth on the overall morning rundown.

Looking for a little more feedback on their Toyota, the team collectively agreed to participate in the final drafting session of the three-day test on Thursday afternoon. The primary objective for the No. 4 team was to clarify whether their automobile would draft competitively. And clearly based on the results of the drafting session, mission accomplished.

Rose’s Toyota posted the second-fastest time during the final drafting session on Thursday afternoon by whipping his No. 4 Harris Trucking / Team ASE Toyota Camry around the historic track in 48.664 seconds or 184.942 miles per hour.

The lap was strong enough to send the team packing and head back home with just a little over an hour and a half remaining in the ARCA open-test.

“I don’t think we could of asked for anything more during the test,” sounded Rose. “I was hoping that missing a day would not hurt our Brian Rose Motorsports team. We knew that we had to bust our tails to make sure we accomplished what we wanted to do and I believe we did that and more.”

He continued, “I cannot thank Danny (Rollins) and the entire team for their efforts this week. It’s without a doubt had it’s trying moments with the weather and whatnot but we stuck it out and we’re happy with what we produced.”

Rose also mentioned what it meant to him to be rekindled with Rollins, who called the shots in his rookie year for BHR. “Man, I can’t say enough about Danny,” Rose admitted. “It’s like our chemistry never disappeared. He taught me a few things about these ARCA cars and once I was able to find our comfort zone, our speed increased and the rest was literally history. Hopefully we can come back here in a couple weeks and pick up right where we left off from here.”

Rollins, well respected in the NASCAR community will return as the crew chief for Brian Rose Motorsports. Rollins was the man responsible for guiding the young-gun to his first career NASCAR top-five finish at Daytona (Fla.) Speedway nearly nine years ago.

Harris Trucking and Team ASE have leaped aboard as marketing partners in the No. 4 Toyota Camry for the first of 19 events on the 2011 ARS calendar, but the freshman team is planning to announce more supporters in the next couple of weeks leading up to ARCA’s biggest race of the season.

About Brian Rose Motorsports (BRM):

From 2001-2010, Brian Rose competed in 41 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS) events. Driving for successful car owners such as the late Bobby Hamilton Sr., Billy Ballew and Rick Ware, he has scored five top-10 finishes including a third place effort in his restrictor plate debut at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway after qualifying fourth in 2002. Rose has controlled the NCWTS field for 35 laps in four events.

A new decade means a new beginning. In 2011, Rose, a native of Louisville, Kentucky will re-brand himself in the racing world by launching his own team, Brian Rose Motorsports (BRM) near Louisville, Kentucky. With the intent to run a full platter of events in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards, NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS), NASCAR Nationwide Series and Late Model events across the country, Rose is expected to blossom back to the top on and off the race track.

Stay tuned for a new Brian Rose Motorsports website parked at BrianRoseMotorsports.com.

Enfinger Flexes Muscle At Daytona; Fastest On New Pavement

Wednesday, January 19, 2011, 1:34:11 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Enfinger Daytona Test11 (DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - January 19, 2011) - Alabama’s Grant Enfinger had every reason to be smiling as his hauler left the grounds of Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway late last week. The part-time ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards team wowed the ARCA crowd by thrusting its No. 09 Ford Fusion to the top of the overall leader board in a three-day open test session on the newly re-paved 2.5-mile superspeedway.

Enfinger wasn’t the man behind the wheel. For the test, Enfinger, considered one of ARCA’s finest drivers handed the wheel off to USARacing Pro Cup Series and NASCAR Nationwide Series driver Benny Gordon who maneuvered the No. 09 Grant Enfinger Racing (GER) Ford Fusion for the three day test.

While it was tough for Enfinger to sit back and watch someone steer his familiar bold and brilliant No. 09 entry, Enfinger had other responsibilities after and being called just days before the test to drive the No. 36 Justin Allgaier Motorsports Dodge Charger for the 2008 ARCA championship team.

Under the guidance of crew chief Howard Bixman, the No. 09 posted its fastest lap during drafting practice on Wednesday afternoon. Gordon, who plans to make his first ARCA start of the 2011 season at Daytona in less than a month drafted his blue oval around the historic track in 48.414 seconds or 185.897 miles per hour. The fastest time could not be beaten during a full-day of testing on Thursday.

“I’m real proud of the GER team,” said Enfinger, who intends to compete in the 2011 ARCA season-opener next month. “We showed last year that we have a solid restrictor plate program and from what I can tell, we haven’t lost any steam since then. I want to thank Benny (Gordon), Howard (Bixman) and the entire Grant Enfinger Racing team for their hard work during the test. Our goal is to come back and be as competitive when that green flag drops.”

For Bixman, a well-known fixture in the ARCA community, he echoed similar sentiments of his car owner.

“Benny (Gordon) did a superb job for his first go-around in an ARCA super speedway car,” Bixman said. “We came here with a plan and to get Benny some laps. But to leave here atop the board it just shows how dedicated and focused this team and talented Benny really is. I want to thank ROUSHYATES Engines and Ford Racing. Hopefully we’ll be able to secure some sponsorship so Grant and this team can be a permanent fixture in the ARCA Racing Series and not just on a part-time basis ”

For Enfinger, who nearly pulled off his first ARCA victory last April at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway, he maneuvered the second-fastest time overall in the No. 36 Dodge Charger. His fastest lap of 48.418 seconds or 185.881 miles per hour was just four-one thousands of a second slower than Gordon’s.

GER will join the remainder of the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards teams for the first of 19 races on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series schedule, the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona set for Saturday, February 12, 2011. The event will be televised live on SPEED and is the preamble for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) Budweiser Shootout which will commence shortly after the conclusion of the 80-lap / 200-mile contest.

TEAM COMMUNICATIONS CONTACT:

NAME: Chris Knight, Knight Motorsports Management

PHONE: 239.834.9797

EMAIL: chris@chrisknightpr.com

Tony Marks Racing Shows Strength at Daytona Test

Wednesday, January 19, 2011, 1:34:11 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Tmr Daytona Test11 (DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - January 19, 2011) - Tony Marks Racing (TMR), the newest multi-car operation in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards wasn’t shy about holding back in the recent three-day test session at the newly re-paved Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway. In fact, the Ohio-based ARCA team quickly raised the eyebrows of their fellow competitors after TMR immediately showed strength and stabilization in their first tango with the 2.5-mile superspeedway.

Armed with the legendary Larry Moore as crew chief, TMR brought three drivers to the “World Center of Racing” as an opportunity to prepare the newest female sensation Maryeve Dufault to become acquainted with the breathtaking racetrack while also utilizing the experience of NASCAR driver Chase Austin to critique the team’s performance.

For 16-year old rising star Jared Marks, the dream of competing at Daytona inched one step closer as the Champion Racing Association (CRA) competitor also climbed into the cockpit for several laps around DIS to give him a taste of what is yet to come.

Even though three drivers were on-hand with for the first official open-test of the new season, much concentration was surrounded on the team’s full-time pilot of Maryeve Dufault, who will make her first ARCA Racing Series start next month.

After spending 2010 competing in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Mobil 1, Dufault, a native of Los Angeles will leap into the most diverse racing series in the United States hoping to gain experience, respect and support as she vows to become the first female driver to win an ARCA Racing Series event in the history of the 58-year old sanctioning body.

To say that the Tony Marks Racing team wasn’t busy during the three days is a huge understatement. From single-car runs to drafting and everything else in between, Dufault, Marks and Austin all delivered solid results which sensors off good vibes for the freshman team heading into the season-opener in less than a month.

Overall, Dufault led the TMR charge by placing her No. 12b Tony Marks Racing Dodge Charger into 28th out of 58 competitors after posting her fastest lap at 49.203 seconds at 182.916 miles per hour. Dufault edged out several familiar ARCA competitors including nine-time ARCA champion Frank Kimmel and the 2010 ARCA Racing Series champion Patrick Sheltra. She was also the second fastest of the six other females on-track during the open-test only trailing Milka Duno.

Marks and Austin, both in single-car rounds posted times that were 41^st and 42^nd respectively overall. The team leaned on comfort not speed for Jared Marks, son of car owner Tony Marks hopped in the seat of the No. 12a Charger and wheeled his automobile around the track in 49.830 seconds or a tick over 180.550 miles per hour. It was a solid lap time for the teenage racer, who under ARCA Racing Series sanctioning age restrictions is allowed to test but not race at the historic facility.

“Overall, we’re completely satisfied with the way the test came out,” said Tony Marks, owner of Tony Marks Racing. “Chase, Jared and Maryeve all did an exceptional job shaking the car down and producing great feedback. I appreciate Chase being here with the team as a driver coach to the future of our great program. Maryeve did exactly what she needed to do and we believe she gained a lot of respect from her competitors.”

He went onto say, “Jared will run some ARCA races later this year and we wanted to make sure he was comfortable in the car not to mention gather priceless seat time. We’ll be back next month and hope we can continue to gain the trust and respect of our competitors while also deliver solid results for our team partners.”

Dufault expressed her overview of the test by stating, “I’m really happy with the progression we had at the test. I felt really comfortable in the car and I achieved what I wanted to do,” she said. “I cannot say enough about the Tony Marks Racing team. They did an amazing job. They’ve worked really hard despite having very little time to put the car together. We showed we had a very competitive piece. I really have a positive feeling for us for the race.”

Tony Marks Racing plans to sport two cars in the 2011 season-opener with Dufault and possibly Austin as a teammate. The schedule will turn later in the year and allow Marks behind the second-car for up to 11 races, including much of the series’ short track contests.

Before tackling the breathtaking Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway this week, the freshman organization spent Monday testing at New Smyrna (Fla.) Speedway allowing the team to shake down their short-track program with all three TMR protégés being allowed priceless seat time behind the wheel. Dufault will make her ARCA Racing Series short track debut at Salem (Ind.) Speedway on May 1, 2011.

Nestled back at their shop in Napoleon, Ohio, the TMR team is preparing for the first of 19 ARCA Racing Series events on the 2011 schedule which launches with the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona on Saturday, February 12, 2011 live on SPEED.

Dreams Do Come True for Brett Hudson

Wednesday, January 19, 2011, 1:34:11 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Hudson Car Shot Daytona Test11 (DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - January 19, 2011) - Chuck Norris once said, “Dreams do come true, if you want them bad enough. For Owensboro, Kentucky native Brett Hudson that statement could not have been more farther than the truth.

Last week, Brett Hudson and his Brett Hudson Motorsports (BHM) team participated in a three-day open test at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway. After two and a half-days of testing, the team loaded up their hauler to make the trek back to Bluegrass State satisfied after Hudson impressed in his first superspeedway test session.

Under the leadership of former ARCA driver turned crew chief John Hayden, BHM unloaded Tuesday morning looking to get a good feeling on their No. 36b Dodge Charger. Utilizing some assistance from the 2008 ARCA Racing Series champion team of Allgaier Motorsports, it wasn’t hard to figure out that Hudson will be a sleeper heading into the season opener next month at Daytona.

Tuesday morning, the avid racecar driver posted the 12^th fastest time. In the afternoon session, the team landed 21^st out of 40 competitors who took to the daring restrictor plate track. Solid results in day one had the family-owned operation looking forward to day two.

Wednesday morning continued of single-car runs with Hudson in his Chrysler nameplate 19^th on the sheets after 42 cars took their tango with the legendary race track. In the afternoon, ARCA Racing Series official opted to open the track to drafting with BHM taking a soft approach and keeping their focus on single-car runs but not ruling out dabbling a little in the drafting department.

Racing inches apart is nothing new to Hudson, but racing inches apart, three, four and sometimes five-wide at nearly 200 miles per hour is a whole new ball game for the 23-year old. Wrestling very little in the draft, Hudson was able to thrust his Dodge Charger into the 13^th position after nailing a time of 48.834 seconds amounting to a speed of 184.298 miles per hour.

“Drafting was pretty cool,” explained Hudson, who plans to make his ARCA Racing Series debut from Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway next month. “We have to concentrate on qualifying runs, because more than likely we’ll have to qualify on time. However, we knew we could not leave the track without doing some type of drafting. We wanted to make sure the car would “suck up” to the other cars. It’s a good piece, that’s for sure.”

Before loading up and heading home, the team elected to spend Thursday morning doing a couple more single-car runs. During the three-hour session, Hudson maneuvered his No. 36 Brett Hudson Motorsports Dodge Charger around the track in 49.804 seconds at 180.708 miles per hour, landing just outside the top-10 in 11^th, his highest position on the sheets.

Pleased with their results, the team opted out of the Thursday afternoon session and began their 13 hour ride home to Kentucky planning to piece together a game plan that would ensure Hudson the opportunity to cross off an item on his bucket list, racing at the “World Center of Racing.”

“Overall, we’re very satisfied with the way the test went,” said Hudson, who has 21 ARCA Racing Series starts to his credits. “We came to Daytona with really no big expectations in mind except to get a good feeling for the car and keep making improvements. We did that and more.”

He added, “I have to thank John (Hayden, crew chief), Jared (Bartlett, car chief) and the entire BHM team for helping out at the test. John (Hayden) loves this restrictor plate racing and always has a great setup. I’m looking forward to coming back in less than a month and giving everyone else something to talk about.”

The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona is the first of 19 races on the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards schedule. The first of two restrictor plate races this season is set for Saturday, February 12, 2011 slated for 4:00 p.m. live on SPEED.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available for the 2011 racing season. Interested parties are encouraged to contact Lisa Hudson of Brett Hudson Motorsports at 270.929.2160 or hudson00@adelphia.net.

TEAM COMMUNICATIONS CONTACT:

NAME: Chris Knight, Knight Motorsports Management

PHONE: 239.834.9797

EMAIL: chris@chrisknightpr.com

Crum, Youster Pair with Hixson; Happy with Daytona Test

Wednesday, January 19, 2011, 1:34:11 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Crum Candid345 (DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – January 19, 2011) - Wayne Hixson returned to his race shop in Soddy Daisy, Tennessee following two days of testing last week at Daytona International Speedway with a grin on his face that was hard to conceal. The numbers may not look very impressive to the casual observer, but Hixson is not the casual observer. Looking down the speed chart, you do not come across Hixson’s familiar #23 until the 48th position out of 58 cars that took laps. Next to that, the speed of 179.594 mph may be equally unimpressive, but to Hixson, it speaks volumes.

“This car will be ready to run with ‘em next month,” Hixson said as his crew went over the car back at the shop. “We have a few little things to do, gotta get the race engine in it, get it painted, and stuff, but overall I am happy with it.”

No car gets itself around the track, though, and the young man that posted that lap was a fellow Tennessean. Nineteen year old Jake Crum, from Newport, made his first laps around Daytona Int’l Speedway and impressed the car owner and crew. Crum participated in the test so that he would be eligible to race next month, and came away feeling very comfortable in the car.

“I can’t wait to get back in February,” Crum said. “The car was comfortable, and I really enjoyed working with Wayne (Hixson) and his guys. That lap was during single car runs on the first day, and we didn’t participate in drafting, so we thought it was a pretty good lap. I’m ready to go.”

Crum is hoping to build on a racing resume that dates back some 14 years to when he was 5 years old. Crum started out in Go-Karts, and advanced to Bandaleros, Legends, and Allison Legacy cars. From there, it was on to late models, where Crum won the 2008 UARA Championship, the youngest driver to accomplish that feat. He is also a winner of the Bailey’s 300 late model race held at Martinsville Speedway. Last year, Crum competed part time in the K&N Pro Series East, and also made one start in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series at Bristol, starting 12^th and running as high as 8^th before mechanical problems sidelined him. Crum has one previous start in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards, at Mansfield Motorsports Park in 2009, where he started 4^th and finished 6^th.

“Right now we are planning to run Daytona and a few other races,” Crum added. “We are looking for some help to hopefully put together a full season, so hopefully a good run at Daytona will get us off on the right foot.”

After Crum tested on Day 1, Day 2 saw another young man climb through the window of the #23. Eighteen year old Levi Youster, from Toledo, Ohio, also took his first laps around the World’s Center of Racing. Youster, who competed in a limited short track schedule in ARCA the past two seasons, was looking to earn approval to compete on the superspeedways. Youster’s lap of 176.982 mph accomplished that.

“That was different,” Youster commented about Daytona’s high banks. “The car felt good, but they told me I was binding it up to much in the turns. It was definitely a lot different from the tracks I am used to, but I learned a lot. Right now we don’t have the funding in place for me to run Daytona, but getting to test and getting eligible to run was a big step.”

Now, Hixson and crew, including Youster who works full time at the race shop, will make the final preparations for next month’s race. The 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards season will be Hixson’s 23^rd year on the tour, which ironically matches the number 23 that his cars carry. It will also be Hixson’s 13^th consecutive year of fielding a full time entry in the series. And when the teams roll into Daytona next month, look for that #23 to be right in the middle of the pack.

CONTACT:

Roy Shipley

royshipley@comcast.net

Scott Stenzel's New Year "Redemption" at Daytona

Wednesday, January 19, 2011, 1:34:11 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Stenzel (DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - January 19, 2011) - Redemption was the name of the game for Scott Stenzel driver of the No. 42 Yellow Stripes Making the Driver Ford Fusion. After the last single car session, on Tuesday, Stenzel posted a sixth place time of 49.457 and was the highest placing Ford. One year ago Stenzel was setup to attempt his first ARCA Racing Series start powered by Roush Yates Engines and fielded by Spraker Racing Enterprises. During qualifying for the 2010 Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200, Stenzel made light contact with the turn three wall which ruined his chances of making his first start.

Following the disappointing Daytona heartbreak, the team gathered themselves back together and was able to successfully capitalize on a seventh place finish at Talladega (Ala) Superspeedway after participating in the open test and qualifying in the 28th position for the race.

The Yellow Stripes team was optimistic coming back to Daytona International Speedway after the teams’ success at Talladega. “With this new track surface we figured we’d be at least as fast as we were at Talladega,” said Scott Stenzel. “But had no idea after that first session on Tuesday that we’d be posting a time of eighth quick.”

During the afternoon session Spraker Racing continued to shine as the team fielded the No. 42 car for two rookie drivers to gain some valuable seat time. Joey Gase (42b) posted 23rd with a lap time of 50.048 and Ryan Lynch (42c) posted 27th with a lap time of 50.080. “It was great to give these guys some experience at high speeds. For never turning a lap at Daytona they both showed they can be competitive,” added Stenzel.

Wrapping up day one with only a few qualifying runs didn’t give the team all the data they needed to be confident for their return in February. Jeff Spraker made the call to stay for Wednesday morning practice and it sure paid off. Spraker Racing made some significant adjustments to help get the car through the air better at these speeds, sent Stenzel back out on the track, and posted a top-three position immediately. After making further adjustments the No. 42 Ford Fusion settled in at a comfortable sixth place position at a time of 49.457 with a speed of 181.976 miles per hour.

“We fulfilled our test agenda and we are pleased with the results. In addition to helping Joey Gase and Ryan Lynch a chance to gain some valuable track time, we discovered some more speed in the car and really helped enhance Scott’s confidence and prove that we have a very competitive effort here,” said crew chief and team owner Jeff Spraker. “Between the great support from Roush Yates and Spraker Racing we are into Daytona with a great package.”

“Now that we were able to prove we have a good piece it’s time to get out there and keep this momentum going by seeking sponsor partnerships. We have a lot of irons in the fire but any bit can help as we don’t have enough sponsorship to keep going,” Stenzel reluctantly added. “Clearly we can’t stop now as we’ve left a big mark at the test.”

Stenzel co-owns Digi Craft Agency www.digicraftagency.com and has been using every tool and resource to help bring a more realistic return on investment for sponsorship partners. “Sponsors today are most concerned about receiving a return on investment and that’s what the Digi Craft Agency specializes in,” said John Baxter, Director of Marketing and Advertising at Digi Craft. “We build performance based campaigns that work for our clients, they can track and see their return and in-turn they earn trust and faith in what we do.” The team hopes to extend these services to sponsorship partners throughout the 2011 season.

Licata Shows Well in Testing at Daytona

Tuesday, January 18, 2011, 1:46:10 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Licata345 (LAKE BALBOA, Calif. - January 17, 2011) - Back-to-back ASA Truck Series champion Joey Licata Jr. finished sixth overall out of 58 competitors that participated in the ARCA Racing Series testing last week at Daytona International Speedway.

Licata, 19, is a member of the Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle driver development program based in Sacramento, CA. Penske development team, Cunningham Motorsports, ran Licata in their famed #77 Dodge at the three day Daytona test, in preparation for the 2011 ARCA season.

Despite this being Licata’s third ever time in an ARCA car and his first time on the newly repaved Daytona, Licata was up to speed quickly.

“I was very impressed with how fast Joey adapted to the speed of the famed 2.5 mile Daytona International Speedway,” Crew Chief Paul Andrews said. “With the new pavement and no more large bumps we are seeing faster speeds than last year. It’s very challenging for a veteran let alone a rookie who has never been on a track larger than a 1 mile.”

Licata’s banner day came on Wednesday afternoon during the drafting sessions, when he was fifth fastest at 185.670 miles per hour. His lap time of 48.473 was just .059 seconds off of the leader.

“We made single car runs for the first day and a half, and then it was time to draft with several other cars,” Andrews said. “(It was) another impressive outing, learning how the draft works figuring out where to be or not to be in the draft is very important. He listened to our input…we had a great test and are look forward to going back with Joey.”

Licata’s laps on Wednesday placed him sixth overall during the three day testing session.

With the successful test, Licata backed up his strong speeds in practice at Rockingham last fall and in testing at Caraway Speedway. Licata looks to be well-prepared to tackle the “Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200” which will be live on SPEED on February 12.

“To actually do laps at Daytona was one of the greatest experiences of my life,” Licata said. “Running with a team of the caliber of Cunningham Motorsports was like nothing I have experienced before. My goals for this first race are to stay out of trouble, be smooth in the pits, and get a good solid finish.”

Licata’s opportunity to race for Cunningham Motorsports in the ARCA Racing Series is a big moment for the Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle program. It encompasses 27 drivers from all over the world with a NASCAR-oriented development platform.

Licata has rapidly ascended through the program, showing exceptional race craft and talent along the way. His 2010 season was highlighted by five poles and four wins including a victory in his first career NASCAR Modified start.

“Joey’s performance at Daytona has made us all very proud. He has a ton of talent and heart,” Driver Coach Ron Sutton said. “This is sure to be just the first of many big accomplishments for this young man as he makes his way in big league motorsports!”

Joey Licata, Jr. Racing is online at www.joeylicata.com

For more information on Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle, log on to www.winners-circle-racing.com

Brevak Tests at Daytona

Monday, January 17, 2011, 4:27:40 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Brevak Daytona Test11 (DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – January 15, 2011) - Second generation driver Brent Brevak and the No. 3 Ford returned to the track this week testing at Daytona International Speedway for the upcoming Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200. Brevak will attempt to start his first superspeedway event when the ARCA Racing Series returns to Daytona in February. The team participated in the recent three day test at the 2.5-mile tri-oval making improvements each run. Brevak finished the second day of testing in the 16th position with a best time of 183.816.

“I’m very excited to be here,” commented Brevak. “To grow up watching my dad run laps around this place and now be here to run myself is pretty cool. I’ve been at Salem, Michigan, Rockingham and Kentucky with ARCA and tested at Talladega, but nothing compares to Daytona. Although we’ll need to find a little more speed running alone, the car feels great and is very stable in the draft.”

Ashland Wisconsin's Brent Brevak ended the 3 day ARCA test session on a positive note putting his #3 Ford in the top ten with a time of 48.960 seconds/speed183.824 mph. "I feel fortunate to have been a part of the first group that got to test on the new surface here at Daytona," commented Brevak. "Although I have nothing to compare to as far as not having raced here before, it was by far the smoothest surface I have ever been on. I'm definitely looking forward to coming back in February. Hopefully we’ll get the support we need to be here. With the improvements we made over the course of the three days, I am confident we have a car that can be competitive."

Brent Brevak, 22, from Ashland, WI, is currently a senior at the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire with a major in broadcast journalism. Brevak is the son of 1990 ARCA champion Bob Brevak.

Milka Duno Excels in Test at Newly-Paved Daytona

Friday, January 14, 2011, 1:44:52 PM | ARCA Racing Series

Duno Candid Daytona11 (DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - January 14, 2011) – Milka Duno and her Sheltra Motorsports team created a big splash during the 2011 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards three-day test session at Daytona International Speedway (DIS) this week. The 2010 championship-winning team returned to the track looking to get ARCA Racing Series rookie Milka Duno ready for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 on February 12th and delivered the same top results they grew accustomed to last season.

Duno hit the newly-paved Daytona International Speedway for the first of three days of testing on Tuesday. Making her return to a stock car for the first time since last year’s ARCA season opener, Duno turned in a fast time of 49.37 seconds (182.293 mph). The time put her No. 63 Dodge Charger fifth on the speed charts.

The Jon Wolfe led team returned for round two of testing Wednesday morning looking to try a few different setups in the morning session. Running 26 laps in the three-hour session, Duno posted a best time of 49.70 seconds (181.057 mph). ARCA Racing Series officials opened the track for the first drafting session Wednesday afternoon. Duno led a pack of five cars around the 2.5-mile oval for a few laps before dropping to the back of the pack to see how her No. 63 Dodge would react in the draft. During the draft Duno posted a fast time of 48.67 seconds (184.907 mph) putting her second on the speed charts for much of the session.

“We made many changes today to improve the car and make it faster,” stated Duno. “We had the second-fastest time until the track cooled and the next drafting pack was able to turn a slightly faster time. We will try a few more changes and keep working on the draft tomorrow.”

The final day of testing led to more single car runs in the morning session. Crew Chief Jon Wolfe tried several different setups running a total of 10 laps. The focus returned to drafting again in the afternoon’s final test session. Running a total of 32 laps, Duno drafted in two different five to eight car packs. She took turns taking her No. 63 machine to the front of the pack and dropping to the back working to get the feel of drafting up to another car and passing. Duno finished the day with the sixth-fastest time, rounding the legendary track with a time of 48.727 seconds (184.703 mph).

“We focused today on drafting and we ended up with pretty good results,” said Duno. “This was just the third day working with the team we’re working together very well. They are a great group of people and they know what they’re doing – it is a fantastic opportunity for me.”

After the three-day test session, Duno and her Sheltra Motorsports team are ready to hit the track for the first of 19 events on the 2011 schedule and are looking for strong results when the ARCA Racing Series takes the green flag on Daytona’s high banks Saturday, February 12^th.

“Milka did extremely well this week,” said Wolfe. “I think we got what we wanted out of the test. We look forward to getting back to DIS in February where we can spend more time drafting and practicing in larger packs. She will give a good performance when the green flag drops on race day.”

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