NASCAR Truck Series racer 'Mad' Max Papis to appear Saturday at the Cdn. Motorsports Expo

(TORONTO, ON // January 19, 2011) The Canadian Motorsports Expo is proud to announce that international racing star ‘Mad’ Max Papis will be at Canada’s Ultimate Racing Show on Saturday, Jan. 22. In addition to participating in an on-stage Fan Q&A and Autograph Session – at 6 p.m. on the Keystone Light Stage – Papis will spend some time on Saturday in the Race Time Radio booth.

In 2011, Papis will be racing full-time in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. The week after the CME, he’ll be competing in a Daytona Prototype car in the Rolex 24 at Daytona International Speedway.

The versatile Italian-born racer, who now resides in North Carolina, thrilled Canadian fans last summer at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve when he narrowly lost the NASCAR Nationwide Series race to his good friend, Boris Said, after a back-and-forth battle. Earlier in the season, he raced in his first Daytona 500, just weeks after being part of the overall runner-up team in the Rolex 24. His impressive racing resume also includes stints in Formula 1, NASCAR, Grand-Am, CART / IndyCar, IMSA, IROC and other series.

“I’m looking forward to coming to Toronto to participate in the Canadian Motorsports Expo on Saturday,” said the charismatic Papis. “We’ll be there promoting our MOMO Stockcar Steering Wheels, as well as speaking with the fans on Saturday afternoon and signing autographs. Look for us at the Race Time Radio booth (#1259). I’m racing at the Rolex 24 the following weekend and looking forward to a full season in the NASCAR Truck Series, so there will be lots to talk about.”

Discussing Papis’ appearance at the CME, show founder Glenn Butt said, “Max Papis is a classic racer, who excels in every racing machine he climbs into. His magnetic smile and accessible personality have made him a favourite with true racing fans. He’s won or competed in the biggest series and events in the world – including Le Mans, the Rolex 24, the Indy 500, the Daytona 500, the Sebring 12 Hour, F1, IndyCar, NASCAR and more. We’re extremely happy that he’s coming to the CME.”

ABOUT MAX PAPIS: Max Papis’ personal website is: www.maxpapis.com. His Tweets can be followed at @maxpapis.

ABOUT MAX PAPIS INC USA: MPI USA is a North Carolina Corporation. It was founded by Max Papis and his wife Tatiana Fittipaldi Papis in February 2009, with the intention of selling the MOMO Stockcar Steering Wheels and other products.

Max and his wife, Tatiana, have a long background in racing. Max has been a professional race car driver since he was 12 years old. Since then he has raced in Formula 1, Champ Cars, Indy Cars, IMSA, Grand-Am, IROC, (among others). For 2011, he will drive the GEICO-sponsored truck in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series.

Tatiana was born into racing with parents Emerson and Maria Helena Fittipaldi. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Advertising and Psychology and a minor in Marketing, from the University of Miami. They recently moved to Mooresville, NC (from Miami, FL) to pursue Max's career in NASCAR. They have two sons, Marco and Matteo.

In 2008, Marc Phaneuf, president of MOMO Italy USA asked Max and Tatiana to be the exclusive worldwide distributors of MOMO Stockcar Steering Wheels. Both jumped at the opportunity, and thus began their adventure with MOMO. Due to Max's busy schedule with NASCAR, Tatiana runs the company most of the time. For more info on this young company, visit www.maxpapisinc.com.

ABOUT THE CME: The Canadian Motorsports Expo is a three-day celebration of Canadian racing that runs January 21, 22 and 23, 2011 at the International Centre (6900 Airport Road in Mississauga). The show is powered by Inside Track Motorsport News. In addition to booths and racing vehicles representing the entire spectrum of Canadian motorsports, the show is loaded with seminars and forums to entertain and inform racers and fans alike. Star drivers – including reigning IndyCar Series Champion and Indy 500 winner Dario Franchitti, and rising NASCAR Sprint Cup star Brad Keselowski – will be at the CME to sign autographs and meet the fans. One of the special themes of this year’s CME is the Karting Reunion. Please check the show’s website for updates and changes.

For more information about the Canadian Motorsports Expo, visit www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com. You can reach co-promoters Inside Track at (416) 962-7223 or email info@canadianmotorsportsexpo.com.

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NASCAR Canadian Tire Series coming to the Canadian Motorsports Expo

(TORONTO, ON // January 19, 2011) This weekend in Toronto, the biggest name in the world of motorsports will have a presence at Canada’s top racing show. The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series will be on-site for all three days of the 5th Annual Canadian Motorsports Expo. The show runs Friday, Jan. 21 through Sunday, Jan. 23 at the International Centre, adjacent to Toronto’s Pearson Airport.

The main NASCAR display will feature the same massive hauler that is the hive of activity at every NASCAR Canadian Tire Series race. Series Director Brad Moran and more than two dozen race and technical officials will be on hand at the CME to give showgoers a behind-the-scenes look at what goes on in a real NASCAR ‘tech lane’ and working garage. A total of three Canadian Tire Series stock cars will also be part of the display.

“We’re very excited about participating in the Canadian Motorsports Expo, one of the top, if not the top, racing shows in Canada,” said Moran. “The show is a great showcase for Canadian racing and we’re looking forward to giving the fans a close look at what takes place, each race weekend, in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series’ ‘tech lane’ and garage. We’re going to be offering some limited tours through the series hauler on Saturday and Sunday, so the fans can experience something that can’t happen on raceday when everybody is busy getting ready for the event.”

The show will also prominently feature a strong contingent of NASCAR Canadian Tire Series racers, many of whom will be participating in the Canadian Tire Series Driver Autograph Session, live on the Keystone Light Stage, starting Saturday at 4:45 p.m. While signing autographs for the fans, the drivers will also be participating in a casual, Q&A session, talking about their individual racing programs. So far, reigning NASCAR Canadian Tire Series champ DJ Kennington, Don Thomson Jr., Mark Dilley, Jason Hathaway, Jason White, Robin Buck, Dexter Stacey and Caitlin Johnston are confirmed.

Later that evening, two of these NCATS drivers will also be receiving Inside Track Readers’ Choice Awards, live on the Keystone Light Stage. Be sure to be there Saturday at 7:15 p.m. to find out which two will receive these coveted awards, as voted by the readers of Inside Track Motorsport News.

Also on hand at the NASCAR display, throughout the weekend, will be Chris Davy, co-owner of Robert Yates Racing Engines. The company was recently announced as the new exclusive SPEC engine supplier to all of NASCAR’s touring series. Davy will there to talk with current and prospective NASCAR racers about the new SPEC engine program. Similarly, Moran and his team of race officials will be available to discuss general issues, rules and procedures pertaining to the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series. They will also be prepared to provide paperwork for racers and teams to start the registration process for the upcoming season.

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series fans attending the CME will also be in for a special treat as Canadian Motor Speedway is presenting Jeff Gordon’s newly-unveiled #24 Drive To End Hunger Chevrolet Impala showcar. NASCAR Canada, another longtime supporter of the CME, is presenting Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s #88 AMP Energy Chevrolet Sprint Cup showcar.

Current NASCAR Nationwide Series champion Brad Keselowski will be on hand Sunday at the CME to participate in an on-stage Fan Q&A / Autograph Session. For 2011, he will be driving Roger Penske’s legendary #2 Miller Lite Dodge in Sprint Cup.

As well, popular racer ‘Mad’ Max Papis – who will be competing full-time in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series in 2011 – will be at the CME on Saturday to meet the fans and sign autographs. Papis finished second to Boris Said in the thrilling NASCAR Nationwide Series race at Montreal’s Circuit Gilles Villeneuve last August, and will be competing in the Rolex 24 at Daytona, one week after the CME.

“We really have to offer a huge thanks to Brad Moran and the people at NASCAR and NASCAR Canada for their support of the Canadian Motorsports Expo,” said the CME’s Greg MacPherson. “NASCAR is the pinnacle of the sport and to have them coming to the show to connect with the fans and racers – in such a big way – means a lot. We encourage everyone to take advantage of this unique opportunity.”

ABOUT THE CME: The Canadian Motorsports Expo is a three-day celebration of Canadian racing that runs January 21, 22 and 23, 2011 at the International Centre (6900 Airport Road in Mississauga). The show is powered by Inside Track Motorsport News. In addition to booths and racing vehicles representing the entire spectrum of Canadian motorsports, the show is loaded with seminars and forums to entertain and inform racers and fans alike. Star drivers, including reigning IndyCar Series Champion and Indy 500 winner Dario Franchitti, rising NASCAR Sprint Cup star Brad Keselowski, Canadian racing champions Ron Fellows, Junior Hanley, DJ Kennington and many others, will be at the CME to sign autographs and meet the fans. Please check the show’s website regularly for updates and changes.

For more information about the Canadian Motorsports Expo, visit www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com. You can reach co-promoters Glenn Butt at (905) 721-1762 or Inside Track at (416) 962-7223 or email info@canadianmotorsportsexpo.com.

TORONTO STAR / WHEELS: Norris McDonald on the CME

Norris McDonald did a nice piece on the Canadian Motorsports Expo on the Toronto Star / Wheels.ca blog this morning. Thank you Norris!


"If having IZOD IndyCar Champion — and two-time winner of the Molson/Honda Indy Toronto — Dario Franchitti at next month’s Canadian Motorsports Expo wasn’t enough, the news today is that NASCAR Nationwide Series champ Brad Keselowski is coming too.

Fans will be able to meet, greet and get an autograph from Keselowski — who’s a pretty good NASCAR Sprint Cup Series star as well — on Sun, Jan. 23, at the International Centre out by Toronto Pearson.

Franchitti will be the headliner at the Expo the day before. The show opens on the Friday evening with a special Ontario stock car racing show built around a late model car belonging to the late — and legendary — “Daytona” Don Biederman and a panel featuring Junior Hanley.

From humble beginnings five years ago, the Canadian Motorsports Expo has become a must-attend event. Held in the dead of winter, the Expo features special guests like Franchitti and Keselowski, manufacturer and speedway displays, panel discussions (translation: arguments) and other attractions that always help to get the juices flowing...."

Click here for the full piece...

Inside Track and Canadian Motorsports Expo mentioned in NASCAR.com feature

In advance of this weekend's NASCAR Nationwide / Canadian Tire Series races at Montreal's Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, David Caraviello wrote a piece for NASCAR.com discussing the future of NASCAR in Canada.

Inside Track editor / Canadian Motorsports Expo co-promoter Greg MacPherson was interviewed for the story, along with NASCAR star Carl Edwards and Canadian Motor Speedway architect Paxton Waters.

Thanks to David and NASCAR.com for including us in the feature!

Canadian Motorsports Expo: 2010 Show Video

The 4th Annual Canadian Motorsports Expo, held Jan. 22-24, 2010 at the International Centre, was a great success. Stars like Matt Kenseth, Paul Tracy, Ron Fellows, Derek Daly, the Duhamels, Jessica Zemken, NASCAR Canadian Tire Series champ Andrew Ranger and several NCATS racers were on hand to make the show the biggest yet.

The 5th CME is slated for Jan. 21-23, 2011 at the International Centre. Show sponsor packages are available and prime booth space is already being scooped up by exhibitors who did fantastic business at the 2010 show. Visit www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com for more info or email expo@insidetracknews.com (or call 416 962-7223) to inquire about being part of next year's CME.

Thanks to Joel Robinson of JRA for putting the video together.

YOUTUBE: Kerry Micks unveils Dickies as new co-primary sponsor of his Dickies / BDI Ford at the CME

On Saturday at the Canadian Motorsports Expo, veteran NASCAR Canadian Tire Series racer Kerry Micks unveiled his new car. For 2010, Micks will ad Dickies as co-primary sponsor of his Dickies / Beyond Digital Imaging Ford. Wide Open Motorsports Solutions hosted the announcement, which included comments by Mark Dilley (Wide Open), Kerry Micks, NASCAR Canada's Richard Coughlin and Bill McFarlane of Williamson-Dickie Canada Co.

Canadian Motorsports Expo Photo Gallery - January 23, 2010

This photo gallery is from Friday and Saturday at the Canadian Motorsports Expo, at the International Centre (Toronto). NASCAR Sprint Cup star Matt Kenseth packed the house for a fan Q&A and autograph session. Canadian racing star Ron Fellows was another star of the show.

Canada's top racers were honoured on stage with the Inside Track Readers' Choice Awards, including Overall Canadian Racer of the Year Andrew Ranger, who also scooped the Stock Car Racer of the Year award.

The show continues Sunday when Paul Tracy participates in a fan Q&A and autograph session, prior to participating in celebrations launching Mosport's 50th Anniversary Season.

Saturday at the Canadian Motorsports Expo

Today at the Canadian Motorsports Expo...

SATURDAY, JANUARY 23

Live on the Canadian Tire Stage:

10:45 - 11:45 a.m. Ron Fellows hosts 'Ron & Friends' Bench Racing Forum
Canadian racing legend Ron Fellows hosts ‘Ron & Friends,’ a bench-racing forum featuring Bill Brack, Robin Buck, Daniel Morad, Bryan Muir, Robert Wickens and Ken Wilden. Join Ron and his panel of speedy friends in a wide-ranging motorsports discussion.

Noon - 1 p.m. Future Fuels Forum
Green initiatives are happening now. All racing and racers will sooner or later have to make changes. Hear from industry experts and motorsport leaders what is being done now and what will happen in the future. Panel participants include ALMS CEO Scott Atherton, Canadian Member of Parliament and consumer gas price watchdog Dan McTeague and emissions expert Dave Kalen of Sensors, Inc.

1:15 - 2:00 p.m. 'Meet the Media' Fan Forum
Our annual gathering of motorsport media experts make up the panel for a what is always a very informative and entertaining open discussion on the latest news and happenings around the racing world. This interactive fan forum is a great opportunity to get a ‘behind the scenes’ perspective from experts like Norris McDonald (Toronto Star / Wheels), Dean McNulty (Sun Media), Erik Tomas (Raceline Radio), Jeff Pappone (Globe & Mail), Tim Miller (Hamilton Spectator), Hugh Burrill (City TV) and Russ Bond (Inside Track / CanadianRacers.com)

2:30 - 4:00 p.m. Matt Kenseth
Reigning Daytona 500 winner and former NASCAR Sprint Cup champion Matt Kenseth will take to The Canadian Tire Stage to participate in a Q&A session with the fans, before signing as many autographs as possible. This is your chance to get up close and personal with one of NASCAR's most popular and successful racers.

4:45 - 5:30 p.m. NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Driver Autograph Session
Your chance to chat with and get autographs from some of Canada's top NASCAR racers. Drivers like Ron Beauchamp Jr., Robin Buck, JR Fitzpatrick, Mark Dilley, Derek Lynch, Steve Matthews, Anthony Simone and others are expected to attend.

5:45 - 6:30 p.m. Yvon, Miguel and Mario Duhamel
This is your first of two opportunities during the CME to participate in a Q&A / Autograph session with Yvon, Miguel and Mario Duhamel; Canada’s First Family of Motorcycle Racing.

7:00 - 8:00 p.m. Inside Track Readers’ Choice Award Presentations
Voting for the Inside Track Readers' Choice Awards wrapped on December 31. On Saturday, January 23, be sure you're at The Canadian Tire Stage to find out who 'you' selected as Canada's top and future racing stars. Many of the winners have been confirmed their attendance.

AND SEMINARS YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS:

11:45 a.m. (Seminar Room #1) Derek Daly Advanced Driver Development Seminar (Derek Daly, Former F1 & IndyCar Driver and Current Broadcaster & Author)

12:00 p.m. (Seminar Room #2) Becoming A Motorsport Marshall (Motorsport Marshalling Services)

1:45 p.m. (Seminar Room #1) Getting Involved in Rallying (Paul Henshall & Christina Chinn, Rally Sport Ontario (RSO))

2:15 p.m. (Seminar Room #2) Keeping Your Cool - Affects of Heat on Racers (Ken Wilden, Driver Coach & '09 Koni Challenge Champion)

3:30 p.m. (Seminar Room #1) Advanced Brake Technology, Covering All Racing Brake Systems (By Darrick Dong, Director of Motorsports - Performance Friction Brakes)

5:15 p.m. (Seminar Room #2) Shock Absorber Tuning (Ryan Brand, Penske Racing Shocks)

5:45 p.m., (Seminar Room #1) Sponsorship Proposals and Ideas That Work (Mark Dilley, NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Driver and Partner in Wide Open Motorsport Solutions)

Canadian Motorsports Expo: Official Show Program

The free, online version of the Official Program of the 2010 Canadian Motorsports Expo is located here. The show takes place this coming weekend (Jan. 22-24, 2010) at The International Centre, adjacent to Toronto's Pearson Airport.

The piece includes schedules for the Canadian Tire Stage, the many racing seminars, bios for star attractions like Daytona 500 winner / NASCAR champ Matt Kenseth, IndyCar star Paul Tracy, Canadian racing legend Ron Fellows, former F1 / Indy Car racer Derek Daly, and the Duhamels; Canada's first family of motorcycle racing.

The Official CME Program also has a feature on Mosport International Raceway - which is set to kick off its 50th Anniversary Season of racing - with a celebration on Sunday at the CME.

Also included is a profile on the what you can see at the Canadian Motor Speedway booth - including a chance to meet with its project managers. You'll also find an exhibitor list and show map inside the program.

Check out the program and we'll see you at the show!

Canadian Motor Speedway project team coming to the CME

Thanks to the Canadian Motor Speedway team for the press release they circulated to their email list last night, letting people know about their participation at this weekend's Canadian Motorsports Expo.

You can see an online version of their e-blast here. While on their message, you can sign up for future mailings about this exciting project planned for Canadian soil. The CMS's website is: www.cdnmotorspeedway.com

For more information on the Cdn. Motorsports Expo and to sign up for the show's e-newsletter, visit: www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com.

Kawartha Speedway racer Mike Wallace to display at the CME

PHOTO: Kawartha Speedway Racer Mike Wallace - shown here in the Mini Stock he drove to the championship in 2009 - will be at the Canadian Motorsports Expo this weekend to unveil his new Late Model (photo by Jim Clarke / Clarke Motorsports Communications).

There’s no question the 4th Annual Canadian Motorsports Expo will be catering to some fairly excited fans and drivers, anxious for the 2010 season to commence. Though perhaps none are more excited than 2009 Kawartha Speedway Mini Stock champion Mike 'The Blueprint' Wallace. That’s because the third-generation wheelman will be publicly unveiling his brand new Late Model for the first time, at the CME.

“I couldn’t tell you how excited I am to be heading to the Expo. My team and I sat down and tried to think of the best way possible to debut this car, when we heard about the Racer’s Corral, we knew that’s exactly what we were looking for,” Beamed Wallace.

Wallace will join several other drivers who will also be displaying their months of hard work in the form of their rides for 2010. The fans couldn’t be happier, as internet forums and race shops alike are buzzing with those excited to catch a glimpse of the cars that will be tearing up dirt and asphalt across the province in just a few short months.

“I’m looking forward to meeting the fans at the Expo," continued Wallace. "The support that people have shown me for the past 2 seasons has been mind blowing, now I’m excited to give back, meet the fans, sign some autographs and let them take some pictures of the car. It’s going to be a great weekend.”

'The Blueprint' will be returning to Kawartha Speedway, the site of his 2008 Mini Stock Rookie of the Year title and 2009 Mini Stock Championship, to compete against some of the province’s brightest Late Model stars, like Brandon Watson, “Old School” Dan McHattie, Dave Morgan and others. And while rubbing fenders with the province’s elite seems intimidating, Wallace is ready to meet the challenge head-on.

For Wallace, “Summer can’t come quick enough.”

Words by Spencer Lewis. Mike Wallace 2009 photo by Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications

For information on last-minute space in the Racer's Corral, email Glenn Butt at glenn@canadianmotorsportsexpo.com.

Canadian Tire Stage to be the focus of the Canadian Motorsports Expo

The Canadian Tire Stage will be the Centre of Attention at the Canadian Motorsports Expo

Forums featuring star racers, the motorsports media, the kick-off of celebrations heralding the start of Mosport’s 50th anniversary season, an alternative fuels forum and much more at the CME

Click Here to see the full Canadian Tire Stage and CME Racing Seminars schedule

(TORONTO, ON // JANUARY 19, 2010) While there will be many tracks, series, racing vehicles, suppliers and vendor displays all throughout Toronto’s International Centre this coming weekend at the Canadian Motorsports Expo, it will be tempting for showgoers to stick close to The Canadian Tire Stage. From Friday through Sunday (Jan. 22-24), it will be the CME’s focal point, offering race fans non-stop opportunities to interact with Canadian and international racing stars and motorsports personalities, like Matt Kenseth, Paul Tracy, Ron Fellows and the Duhamels.

“Canadian Tire is proud to present The Canadian Tire Stage at the Canadian Motorsports Expo,” said Susan Lute, Strategic Marketing Manager | Automotive, Canadian Tire Corporation. “The Canadian Tire Stage will be the centre of activity at the CME, playing host to the many forums, presentations and driver autograph sessions that will take place during the three-day show. Canadian race fans are Canadian Tire customers and we look forward to connecting with them at this year’s CME.”

“We’re honoured to welcome Canadian Tire as the presenting sponsor of The Canadian Tire Stage at the CME,” said David Weber, of the CME and Inside Track Communications. “From their support of grassroots racers across Canada to their title sponsorship of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, Canadian Tire has a great history of supporting Canadian motorsports. Their sponsorship of The Canadian Tire Stage is contributing to an incredible show for the fans.”

FRIDAY

Starting Friday evening (at 7 p.m.), The Canadian Tire Stage will – for the second year in a row – play host to Spencer Lewis’ Ontario Asphalt Short Track Power Rankings presentations. Lewis, an Inside Track Motorsport News contributor, will present awards to the province’s top asphalt oval racing stars. Last year, drivers like Steve Robblee, Jeff Hanley, Ron Sheridan, Stompin’ Tom Walters and others were honoured. Show up Friday to see who makes the list this year!

SATURDAY

Action on The Canadian Tire Stage heats up Saturday with several major events. The schedule kicks off at 10:45 a.m. when Canadian racing legend Ron Fellows hosts ‘Ron & Friends,’ a bench-racing forum featuring Bill Brack, Robin Buck, Daniel Morad, Bryan Muir, Robert Wickens and Ken Wilden. Join Ron and his panel of speedy friends in a wide-ranging motorsports discussion.

At noon, several industry experts will take part in the Alternative Fuels Forum. American Le Mans Series CEO Scott Atherton and Canadian MP Dan McTeague will be joined by others in a discussion about the current and future trends in racing fuels as they relate to ‘green’ initiatives.

The fourth-annual ‘Meet the Media’ forum kicks off at 1:15 p.m. on The Canadian Tire Stage. Featuring many of Canada’s top motorsports journalists, this interactive fan forum is a great opportunity to get a ‘behind the scenes’ perspective from experts like Norris McDonald (Toronto Star / Wheels), Dean McNulty (Sun Media), Erik Tomas (Raceline Radio), Jeff Pappone (Globe & Mail), Tim Miller (Hamilton Spectator), Hugh Burrill (City TV) and Russ Bond (Inside Track / CanadianRacers.com).

Once the ‘press’ forum wraps up, reigning Daytona 500 winner and former NASCAR Sprint Cup champion Matt Kenseth will take to The Canadian Tire Stage to participate in a Q&A session with the fans, before signing as many autographs as possible. The NASCAR veteran is scheduled to be on stage from 2:30 to 4 p.m.

A NASCAR Canadian Tire Series driver autograph session, featuring many of the top stars from Canada’s national stock car championship, takes place from 4:45 to 5:30 p.m. That will be followed by a Q&A / Autograph session starring Yvon, Miguel and Mario Duhamel; Canada’s First Family of Motorcycle Racing. Saturday’s action on The Canadian Tire Stage wraps up with the Inside Track Readers’ Choice Awards presentations. Many of Canada’s top and future racers – as voted by the readers of Inside Track Motorsport News – will be on hand (starting at 7 p.m.) to receive their awards, for excelling in stock cars, road racing, motorcycles, rallying, karting and drag racing.

SUNDAY

Sunday’s Canadian Tire Stage program opens, at 11 a.m., with another on-stage Q&A / Autograph session with the Duhamels. Next up, Canadian road racing star Paul Tracy will participate in a Fan Q&A and autograph session with CME showgoers. The former IndyCar champ, who is popular for his wide-open driving style and candid comments, will be on The Canadian Tire Stage from 1:30 to 2:45.

And then at 3 p.m., Tracy, Ron Fellows and several others, including Horst Kroll, Norris McDonald and Doctor Hugh Scully will take part in ceremonies and celebrations kicking off the upcoming 50th anniversary season of racing at the legendary Mosport International Raceway. Almost every famous Canadian racer and industry member has a personal story about how Mosport helped shape their careers. Be sure not to miss the many interesting tributes and tales about Canada’s Home of Motorsports.

ABOUT THE CME: The Canadian Motorsports Expo is a three-day celebration of Canadian racing that runs January 22 to 24 at the International Centre (6900 Airport Road in Mississauga). The show is powered by Inside Track Motorsport News and supported by companies like Lucas Oil Canada, NASCAR Canada, Mosport International Raceway and Canadian Tire. In addition to booths and racing vehicles representing the entire spectrum of Canadian motorsports, the show is loaded with seminars and forums to entertain and inform racers and fans alike. Star drivers Matt Kenseth, Paul Tracy, Ron Fellows, Derek Daly and Jessica Zemken will be at the CME to sign autographs and meet the fans. Please check the show’s website for updates and changes.

For more information about the Canadian Motorsports Expo, visit www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com, call Glenn Butt at (905) 721-1762 or email him at glenn@canadianmotorsportsexpo.com. You can reach co-promoters Inside Track at (416) 962-7223 or email expo@insidetracknews.com.

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Canadian Motorsports Expo profiled in today's Toronto Star / Wheels section

In his motorsports column in today's Toronto Star / Wheels Section, Norris McDonald wrote about next weekend's Canadian Motorsports Expo. Thanks to Norris for all his support of the show and Canadian racing. Click here to see the story.

Canadian Motor Speedway to have a presence at the Cdn. Motorsports Expo

(Top: John Bickford.... Above: Paxton Waters)

REPRESENTATIVES OF THE CANADIAN MOTOR SPEEDWAY PROJECT TO APPEAR AT THE CME
John Bickford of Jeff Gordon Inc. and motorsports facility architect Paxton Waters will be at the Canadian Motorsports Expo to meet fans and discuss the proposed Ft. Erie, Ont. facility

(TORONTO, ON // JANUARY 11, 2010) Many Canadian racing fans are aware that Ft. Erie, Ontario has been designated as the host site for a multi-purpose, carbon-neutral motorsports facility called the Canadian Motor Speedway (CMS).

Valued at $150 million, CMS will incorporate a 1-mile ‘Jeff Gordon Design Signature Speedway’ oval, a 2.6-mile FIA grade road course, 65,000 seats (expandable to 100,000), a Motorsports and Automotive R&D Park in collaboration with McMaster University, and much more into an 820 acre parcel of land along the QEW highway, just kilometres from the Canada/US border.

Late in 2009, CMS received overwhelming support from Ft. Erie and Niagara Region councils, paving the way for construction to commence in the Spring of 2010. As part of its campaign to inform and educate the racing public about plans to create a world-class facility in Southern Ontario, the Canadian Motor Speedway will have a booth at the Canadian Motorsports Expo (CME). The CME takes place January 22-24 at the International Centre, adjacent to Toronto’s Pearson Airport.

Internationally respected motorsports facility designer Paxton Waters – the lead architect on the CMS project – will be on hand at the CMS booth at the CME, as will John Bickford, the Vice President and General Manager of Jeff Gordon, Inc. Bickford is also the stepfather of Jeff Gordon; the four-time NASCAR Sprint Cup champ who is heavily involved in the design of CMS.

Fans who visit the Canadian Motor Speedway booth will be able to meet the CMS development team, ask the architect about the design, and get the inside scoop on CMS and the development process planned for between now and the track’s inaugural race day, scheduled for 2011. The booth will feature ‘never before seen’ renderings and souvenir giveaways. As well, the CMS team will be available for B2B discussions to explore partnerships and potential business opportunities with the facility.

“We are extremely excited that the Canadian Motor Speedway group is going to be at the Canadian Motorsports Expo,” said Greg MacPherson, of the CME. “In my role as Editor of Inside Track Motorsport News, I’m very familiar with this exciting project that appears poised to make a major impact on the Canadian racing scene. Having the facility architect Paxton Waters and John Bickford, of Jeff Gordon Inc., at their booth to educate the fans, racers and media about what is about to unfold in our own backyard is a real coup for the CME.”

The Canadian Motor Speedway booth is #1225, located in Hall 1 of the International Centre. Paxton Waters will be at the CMS booth throughout the entire show. John Bickford will be at the booth throughout Friday (1 to 9 p.m.) and from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday of the CME.

ABOUT THE CANADIAN MOTOR SPEEDWAY: Canadian Motor Speedway is a $150 million racetrack development situated on 820 acres of land in Fort Erie directly adjacent to the QEW within 5 miles of the Canadian/U.S. border and 11.2 miles from Niagara Falls. It will include ancillary construction for; infrastructure, recreational, commercial, industrial and educational uses that will expand the build-out to $400 million.
The core of the project consists of a standalone 1-mile oval which combines to form a 2.6 mile FIA grade road course through an innovative system of tunnels. Every one of the 60,000 stadium seats provides expansive views of both; the speedway and road course, as well as, vistas for maximum enjoyment of a comprehensive list of motorsports events. 5,000 enclosed club seats and 80 suites will favour the customer with first class catering and access. The development will provide world class racing events for up to 100,000 spectators in a variety of motorsports including automobiles, motorcycles, karting and various motorized and non-motorized public events. CMS is committed to improving on industry best practices by providing handicapped and limited maneuverability patrons with a best case scenario in terms of access, support and enjoyment. For more info, visit: www.cdnmotorspeedway.com

ABOUT PAXTON WATERS: Paxton Waters, AIA, OAA, is president of Paxton Waters Architecture, an Indiana design firm whose main focus is on Motorsport Facility design. A native of Omaha, Nebraska, Paxton has 34 years of experience as an architect and is registered in 22 states. Paxton’s first involvement with motorsports was in 1990 with the design of various buildings at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, including their 60,000-sft headquarters. In 1994, Paxton was the lead designer for the California Speedway, shortly followed by the Las Vegas Motor Speedway and Pikes Peak International Raceway near Colorado Springs.
Other facilities designed by Paxton are US 131 Speedway, Monroe Speedway, Mansfield Motor Speedway, and Iowa Speedway. Paxton has consulted on more than 50 feasibility studies from New York to California. Paxton is currently co-designing the Canadian Motor Speedway, in Ontario, Canada, with NASCAR legend Jeff Gordon.

ABOUT JOHN BICKFORD: John Bickford is Vice President and General Manager of Jeff Gordon, Inc. He is also step-father to NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon. Bickford started Gordon’s racing career on a makeshift racetrack in Vallejo, California in 1976 at the age of 5. At the same time, he started MPD which is a company that produces products for physically challenged people to enable them to drive cars without the use of their feet. The company also produces race car products.
In 1985, he moved east to further Jeff Gordon’s racing establishing a base in Pittsboro, Indiana. In 1996, following a move from Pittsboro to Concord, North Carolina he became the Executive Vice President of Action Performance. While with Action, he spent 18 months in Europe working on Formula One and SBK World Super Bike. In 2004, he returned to Jeff Gordon, Inc. where he remains Vice President and General Manager.

ABOUT THE CME: The Canadian Motorsports Expo is a three-day celebration of Canadian racing that runs January 22 to 24 at the International Centre (6900 Airport Road in Mississauga). The show is powered by Inside Track Motorsport News and supported by companies like Lucas Oil Canada, NASCAR Canada, Mosport International Raceway and Canadian Tire. In addition to booths and racing vehicles representing the entire spectrum of Canadian motorsports, the show is loaded with seminars and forums to entertain and inform racers and fans alike. Star drivers Matt Kenseth, Paul Tracy, Ron Fellows, Derek Daly and Jessica Zemken will be at the CME to sign autographs and meet the fans. Please check the show’s website for updates and changes.
For more information about the Canadian Motorsports Expo, visit www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com, call Glenn Butt at (905) 721-1762 or email him at glenn@canadianmotorsportsexpo.com. You can reach co-promoters Inside Track at (416) 962-7223 or email expo@insidetracknews.com.

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Canadian Motorsports Expo: Race Time Radio to broadcast live from the CME

RACE TIME RADIO TO BROADCAST LIVE FROM THE CANADIAN MOTORSPORTS EXPO

(TORONTO, ON // JANUARY 12, 2010) An exciting new addition to the 4th Annual Canadian Motorsports Expo will be a pair of live broadcasts by Race Time Radio, direct from the floor of the International Centre. Running from noon to 1 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday of the CME (January 23 & 24), hosts Joe Chisholm and Bob Sanders will conduct interviews with top drivers, racing personalities and show exhibitors.

The Race Time Radio (RTR) duo will talk about what’s going on at the Canadian Motorsports Expo and get a feel for what racing fans can look forward to in 2010. Both broadcasts from the CME will be carried live on AM560; the home of Race Time Radio (www.racetimeradio.com). AM560 has a daytime ‘reach’ of over 200 km from Owen Sound, Ontario. And for those outside the listening area, the shows will be streamed live, around the world on the internet, at www.560cfos.ca.

“It’s going to be really cool to broadcast live from the Canadian Motorsports Expo,” said Race Time Radio co-host Joe Chisholm. “The CME is jammed with content that appeals to the racers and fans who listen to Race Time Radio. The bottom line is that it makes for great radio content. We’re hoping to encourage people to listen and then come down to the see show for themselves.”

Speaking on behalf of the CME, show founder Glenn Butt said, “We’re very pleased to welcome the Race Time Radio guys to the show for 2010. To have them giving a blow-by-blow of everything that’s going on will really add to the atmosphere. Everyone who hears them is going to wish they were live on the floor at the International Centre.”

ABOUT THE CME: The Canadian Motorsports Expo is a three-day celebration of Canadian racing that runs January 22 to 24 at the International Centre (6900 Airport Road in Mississauga). The show is powered by Inside Track Motorsport News and supported by companies like Lucas Oil Canada, NASCAR Canada, Mosport International Raceway and Canadian Tire. In addition to booths and racing vehicles representing the entire spectrum of Canadian motorsports, the show is loaded with seminars and forums to entertain and inform racers and fans alike. Star drivers Matt Kenseth, Paul Tracy, Ron Fellows, Derek Daly and Jessica Zemken will be at the CME to sign autographs and meet the fans. Please check the show’s website for updates and changes.

For more information about the Canadian Motorsports Expo, visit www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com, call Glenn Butt at (905) 721-1762 or email him at glenn@canadianmotorsportsexpo.com. You can reach co-promoters Inside Track at (416) 962-7223 or email expo@insidetracknews.com.

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Derek Daly to present his Advanced Driver Development Seminar at the Canadian Motorsports Expo

Former F1 and CART Series driver to share his expertise with aspiring young racers at the CME

(TORONTO, ON // JANUARY 11, 2010) Respected motorsports personality Derek Daly will make a special appearance at the Canadian Motorsports Expo on Saturday, January 23. Daly, who competed in Formula 1, CART (now IndyCar) and other series during his 17-year career as a professional racer, will present his Advanced Driver Development Seminar and sign autographs for CME showgoers.

Since retiring as a racer, Daly has gone on to become a successful motorsports broadcaster, author, motivational speaker, racetrack designer and business consultant.

“I have always had a soft spot for Canadian motorsports fans,” said Daly. “I scored my first Formula One world championship point in Montreal in 1978 when Gilles Villeneuve won. Canadian racing fans are among the most knowledgeable anywhere.”

Daly’s book, Race to Win, is the basis of his Advanced Driver Development presentation to aspiring racers and motorsports fans. Discussing his upcoming appearance at the CME, Daly continued, “I look forward to sharing the principles of driver development with existing and future Canadian drivers. I highly encourage any parents whose children are interested in racing to attend. The seminar has been well-received from Indianapolis to Silverstone and it will be a delight to deliver the message in Toronto. I have a passion for the young driver and it will be a pleasure to attend the Canadian Motorsports Expo.”

Daly’s seminar is scheduled to start at 11:45 a.m. on Saturday morning (Jan. 23) in the CME’s Seminar Room. Following his presentation, Daly – who took part in six Indy 500s and twice won the Sebring 12 Hour – will be available for a fan Q&A and autographs. Copies of his book, Race to Win, will also be available at the show.

Commenting on Daly’s appearance at the CME, show founder Glenn Butt said, “We are extremely honoured that Derek Daly is coming to the Canadian Motorsports Expo. He competed at the highest levels of the sport, and since retiring as a racer, he’s successfully continued in motorsports in several prominent and exciting roles. He has a unique perspective and we’re excited that he’ll be at the CME. For anyone who wants to learn what it takes to progress as a racecar driver – from someone with a proven track record and a lifetime of experiences – this is an invaluable opportunity.”

ABOUT THE CME: The Canadian Motorsports Expo is a three-day celebration of Canadian racing that runs January 22 to 24 at the International Centre (6900 Airport Road in Mississauga). The show is powered by Inside Track Motorsport News and supported by companies like Lucas Oil Canada, NASCAR Canada, Mosport International Raceway and Canadian Tire. In addition to booths and racing vehicles representing the entire spectrum of Canadian motorsports, the show is loaded with seminars and forums to entertain and inform racers and fans alike. Star drivers Matt Kenseth, Paul Tracy, Ron Fellows, Derek Daly and Jessica Zemken will be at the CME to sign autographs and meet the fans. Please check the show’s website for updates and changes.

For more information about the Canadian Motorsports Expo, visit www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com, call Glenn Butt at (905) 721-1762 or email him at glenn@canadianmotorsportsexpo.com. You can reach co-promoters Inside Track at (416) 962-7223 or email expo@insidetracknews.com.

Sunset Speedway releases its 2010 schedule

Click here to view a PDF of Sunset Speedway's 2010 schedule.
The facility is currently undergoing a full renovation. Be sure to stop by Sunset's booth at the Canadian Motorsports Expo, Jan. 22-24 at the International Centre.

Visit Sunset Speedway on the web at: www.sunsetspeedway.ca

Belleville-area resident looking for a ride to the Canadian Motorsports Expo

This showed up in my Google Alerts...

Anyone from the Belleville, ON area looking to share gas expenses on the way to the Canadian Motorsports Expo on January 23 or 24?

If so, click on this link to see the Kijiji ad.

Inside Track Readers' Choice Awards... just 10 days left to vote

Voting for the Eighth Annual Inside Track Readers' Choice Awards is well underway. In fact, there are just 10 days left to have your say as the polls will remain open until late on New Year's Eve. We're planning to announce the winners, on stage, at the Canadian Motorsports Expo on Friday, January 22, 2010.

The survey consists of 13 questions. Most of the categories include six nominees and space for write-in votes. The Inside Track Readers' Choice Awards celebrate Canada's top current and future racing stars, across the spectrum of motorsports, including stock cars, road racing, motorcycle racing, rallying, karting and drag racing.

Click here to be taken to the survey site.

Come see us at the PRI show in Orlando!

Inside Track Motorsport News and the Canadian Motorsports Expo have booths at the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) tradeshow at the Orange County Convention Centre (Dec. 10-12). If you're at the show, please stop by and visit us at booths 957 & 959!