LANCASTER, NY - The 2005 racing season has arrived in Western New York and Lancaster Raceway Park is ready to open for its 47th season of operation. Things get started on Saturday, April 30 with one final preseason practice session to give teams a chance to get ready for the season opener.
The regular season will start with a special Sunday afternoon show on May 1 at 1:30 PM. All divisions will be on hand including the Advance Auto Parts Modifieds, Signworks SST Sportsman, Probity Construction Super Stocks, Glen Campbell Chevrolet Street Stocks, and the TQ Midgets. The Bobcat of Buffalo Late Models will open their season taking in part in the opening round of the Lancaster Raceway Park/Holland Speedway Late Model Challenge Series.
Defending series champion and LRP 2004 track champ, John Julicher, will try to defend his title against some of the best Late Model teams in New York.Tremendous interest has been shown with new teams signing up to participate at LRP this season.
A few new faces are on the roster as well as some old faithfuls who will be returning. Special mention that Chuck Hossfeld will be returning to regular competition in the modified class for the month of May and continuing with a limited schedule at LRP whenever his NASCAR tour schedule allows.
Additionally, third generation driver Eric Rudolph, son of former Modified track champ and FOAR Score Hall of Fame driver, Charlie Rudolph, and grandson of the successful crew chief, Jim Rudolph, will be taking a turn behind the wheel of a TQ midget on a regular basis at LRP.
As an added bonus on opening day, Brock Yates Lap Around America will pay Lancaster a visit following the racing program. Cool cars and street rods will tour the LRP oval to complete the great day of racing. As part of a week long tour covering over 3500 miles across the country, LRP is honored to host one hundred highly modified cars including Vipers, Corvettes, Honda NSX’s.
Ford GTs, Porsche Turbos, BMWs and even some thinly disguised race cars like the Ultima GTR and the radical Daytona Coupe.The LRP stock car racing program will return to Saturday nights starting May 7.
Race time has been moved back to start at 6:30 pm to accommodate the later crowd that is typical of LRP, however, management will continue to strive to finish between 10 and 10:30 pm to remain attractive to families and give people a chance to visit their hometown heroes in the pits after the races.
Grandstands gates open will open at 5 PM. Season tickets are still available for the 2005 racing season. Don't miss a week of the exciting racing at Lancaster Raceway Park this season. For more information call (716) 759-6818 or log on to www.lancasterracing.com.
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Thursday, April 21, 2005
Painkillerz News: Johnny B returns to the air
For those who fondly remember John Bordignon (aka Johnny B) from Mojo radio, you can find him in action on the weekends on NewsTalk 610 CKTB in St. Catharines.
The channel easily reaches into Toronto. I know this because I'm a regular listener to the crazy Phil Hendrie Show, which airs on that station at 7 p.m. on weeknights.
For the whole story on the return of Johhny B and what he's up to now, have a look at PAINKILLERZ.CA, the brainchild of Russ Bond and Jim Leggett.
Painkillerz News: "'DRIVELINE RADIO' zooms into Saturday afternoons on NEWSTalk 610 CKTB!
NEWSTalk 610 CKTB AM St. Catharines has kicked it into high gear adding a brand new and exciting automotive radio program to Saturday afternoons.
'Driveline Radio' will air weekly from 3-4pm EST beginning April 23, 2005. Hosted and produced by two men who know all about bringing a comprehensive and entertaining radio experience to the ears of the masses.
John Bordignon 'Johnny B' and Robert Forte created and guided the Guys Garage automotive radio experience for almost 4 years on MOJO Radio.
They return with a vengeance to NEWSTalk 610 CKTB with a new vision but original quality. 'Driveline will be bigger, better and more comprehensive than any automotive radio show on this planet!' explains a confident Johnny B.
'We'll take the lessons learned and contacts made from our previous show and improve on them. Expect the same quality analysis, expert guests and amusement Rob and I can bring. Driveline will be your source for automotive industry news, racing coverage and help with the mechanical workings of everything automotive. From cars, trucks, boats, ATV's and lawnmowers, Driveline has it covered. We've proved it before and we'll do so again.'"
... more at the link above...
The channel easily reaches into Toronto. I know this because I'm a regular listener to the crazy Phil Hendrie Show, which airs on that station at 7 p.m. on weeknights.
For the whole story on the return of Johhny B and what he's up to now, have a look at PAINKILLERZ.CA, the brainchild of Russ Bond and Jim Leggett.
Painkillerz News: "'DRIVELINE RADIO' zooms into Saturday afternoons on NEWSTalk 610 CKTB!
NEWSTalk 610 CKTB AM St. Catharines has kicked it into high gear adding a brand new and exciting automotive radio program to Saturday afternoons.
'Driveline Radio' will air weekly from 3-4pm EST beginning April 23, 2005. Hosted and produced by two men who know all about bringing a comprehensive and entertaining radio experience to the ears of the masses.
John Bordignon 'Johnny B' and Robert Forte created and guided the Guys Garage automotive radio experience for almost 4 years on MOJO Radio.
They return with a vengeance to NEWSTalk 610 CKTB with a new vision but original quality. 'Driveline will be bigger, better and more comprehensive than any automotive radio show on this planet!' explains a confident Johnny B.
'We'll take the lessons learned and contacts made from our previous show and improve on them. Expect the same quality analysis, expert guests and amusement Rob and I can bring. Driveline will be your source for automotive industry news, racing coverage and help with the mechanical workings of everything automotive. From cars, trucks, boats, ATV's and lawnmowers, Driveline has it covered. We've proved it before and we'll do so again.'"
... more at the link above...
WWS: Elliott’s Combine to Run for Late Model Titles
MISSISSAUGA, ON – For much of the past decade, David and Gary Elliott were consistent front-runners in the Canadian Vintage Modified (CVM) class. With a combined six CVM championships, both drivers have proven they know how to win.
Now, both drivers are looking for championships outside the comfortable confines of the CVM Club.
In 2004, David moved up from the CVM ranks, where he had won four championships, to field a Late Model in the touring ALSTAR Super Series and at Flamboro Speedway.
“It was a big step for me and I knew it wouldn’t be easy when I moved up to the Late Model class last year,” said David. “I had a bit of a rough start to the year, but I learned a lot and the team really dialed the car in by the end of the season.”
By combining what he learned in his rookie year and focusing on racing at Flamboro in 2005, David is sure to be a contender for both the Grisdale Late Model and Lucas Oil Weekend Warrior Series Championships.
“With a great team and sponsors like Lucas Oil behind us, I’m really confident that we can make a run for the championship this year,” said David.
One major change for the 2005 season will be the addition of a new competitor – David’s father, Gary. A 30-year veteran of the CVM ranks, Gary will run for Rookie of the Year in the Late Model class. While the car may be different, the number and colours will be familiar to race fans. Gary will once again be running the #36 with primary sponsorship from Quaker State, extending an incredible driver-sponsor relationship that began in 1974 and is now entering its 32nd year.
Gary will also spend the 2005 season serving as coach and mentor to Jesse Pontello, as the 15 year old begins his stock car racing career in the very competitive and legendary CVM division. Jesse will be driving Gary’s #36 in 18 of the 20 scheduled races for 2005. Gary also take a turn behind the wheel, driving the black Coupe in the 31st Annual Twin 25’s on June 11th and again on August 27th for the open wheel show at Flamboro.
Although David and Gary will be running two separate teams, both will work out of the same shop in Waterdown and will be able to share their information. The combined resources will undoubtedly help both teams, but David feels racing against his father again will also provide some added motivation which will help push him to the front of the pack.
“The only thing worse than finishing second,” he said with a sly grin, “is finishing second to your dad.”
For more information, contact: Brett Paveling (416) 951-6990
Now, both drivers are looking for championships outside the comfortable confines of the CVM Club.
In 2004, David moved up from the CVM ranks, where he had won four championships, to field a Late Model in the touring ALSTAR Super Series and at Flamboro Speedway.
“It was a big step for me and I knew it wouldn’t be easy when I moved up to the Late Model class last year,” said David. “I had a bit of a rough start to the year, but I learned a lot and the team really dialed the car in by the end of the season.”
By combining what he learned in his rookie year and focusing on racing at Flamboro in 2005, David is sure to be a contender for both the Grisdale Late Model and Lucas Oil Weekend Warrior Series Championships.
“With a great team and sponsors like Lucas Oil behind us, I’m really confident that we can make a run for the championship this year,” said David.
One major change for the 2005 season will be the addition of a new competitor – David’s father, Gary. A 30-year veteran of the CVM ranks, Gary will run for Rookie of the Year in the Late Model class. While the car may be different, the number and colours will be familiar to race fans. Gary will once again be running the #36 with primary sponsorship from Quaker State, extending an incredible driver-sponsor relationship that began in 1974 and is now entering its 32nd year.
Gary will also spend the 2005 season serving as coach and mentor to Jesse Pontello, as the 15 year old begins his stock car racing career in the very competitive and legendary CVM division. Jesse will be driving Gary’s #36 in 18 of the 20 scheduled races for 2005. Gary also take a turn behind the wheel, driving the black Coupe in the 31st Annual Twin 25’s on June 11th and again on August 27th for the open wheel show at Flamboro.
Although David and Gary will be running two separate teams, both will work out of the same shop in Waterdown and will be able to share their information. The combined resources will undoubtedly help both teams, but David feels racing against his father again will also provide some added motivation which will help push him to the front of the pack.
“The only thing worse than finishing second,” he said with a sly grin, “is finishing second to your dad.”
For more information, contact: Brett Paveling (416) 951-6990
VICTORY LANE SPEEDWAY: NAPA Auto Parts is Title Sponsor of the Mid-Canada Sprint Car Challenge
WINNIPEG, MB – Victory Lane Speedway is pleased to announce Napa Auto Parts as the title sponsor of the Mid-Canada Sprint Car Challenge on July 14. Gord Oakley, District Manager, Corporate Stores of Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario for Napa Auto Parts and Guy Budel, Director of Race Operations for Victory Lane Speedway, are both thrilled about the partnership.
“We are so excited that Napa Auto Parts, a nationally recognized chain of stores, has come on board to support both Victory Lane Speedway and the Mid-Canada Sprint Car Challenge on July 14,” says Budel. “We’ve been looking forward to this sprint car race since we added it to the schedule in the off season, and with Napa coming on board as the title sponsor, and getting behind this event, it’ll really get the ball rolling for what will be the biggest sprint car show this city has ever seen.”
The Napa Auto Parts Mid-Canada Sprint Car Challenge is a race that puts 410 Sprint Cars up against 360 Sprint Cars. If a 410 sprint car wins, then the winner takes home a $1000 dollar check, but if a 360 sprint car wins, he will take home a $1500 dollar check. Also, if a 360 car finishes second or third, he will have $250 added to his check. This format is similar to an event held in Estevan, Saskatchewan, last summer, which was a huge success. Lou Kennedy Jr. of Winnipeg, Manitoba, won that race in his 360 sprint car and took home the bonus pay day.
Speedway International Inc/Pro Comp Methanol has also come on board to supply every sprint car team that comes through the gates with 10 gallons of racing fuel and The St. Norbert Hotel has also come on board to provide a special rate for racers and fans who want to spend the night in Winnipeg.
Victory Lane Speedway is Central Canada's largest high bank dirt oval facility, averaging between 80 and 100 competitors every race, with 70,000 people coming through the gates every season. VLS is fully licensed with full-service concessions. Racing every Thursday at 7:30, tickets are available at any Ticketmaster or get them at the gate; Adults $15, Students/Seniors $12, as always, KIDS 12 AND UNDER FREE.
(From Greg Cybulski / VLS)
MERRITTVILLE SPEEDWAY: Second Bicknell Racing Products Chassis Seminar and Pete Bicknell Driving School a Success
THOROLD, ON – While many of Merrittville Speedway’s 2005 Stock Car Rookies have considerable Tuesday Night histories on the kart track, Saturday Nights will definitely be a learning experience.
Merrittville Speedway was recently host to the 2nd Annual Bicknell Racing Products Chassis Seminar and Pete Bicknell Driving School for rookie and veteran drivers alike that enrolled.
“It just doesn’t compare to racing a kart,” relates an awestruck Nick Cupolo after his first few laps in his Cairn Croft Hotel 99c Sportsman. “It was amazing,” boasted Mat Williamson, adding, “I can’t wait until the season starts.” For the 2004 KC Auto Parts Original Pizza Logs Junior Restricted Light Kart Champion, this season will also include attempting to defend his kart title in addition to taking on a stock car schedule Saturday Nights.
Chris Steele also looks to do double duty again this season as he did last, continuing on in the Philbrick Farm & Garden Senior kart class while racing in his sophomore season in the Seneca Niagara Casino Dwarf Car division. Steele attended the conclusion of the RCM Racing Equipment/Philbrick Farm & Garden Kart School on track session helping out some of the novice karters and then put his Saturday Night Mod Lite through the Sunday Stock Car session.
“I’m looking forward to having a lot of fun,” relates Steele’s father Owen, adding, “I’m not sure what results I’ll have though.” The elder Steele is set to follow his son into Dwarf Car racing with Chris’ car of last year.
“It was a real successful morning,” informs instructor Paul Klager, of the track portion of the kart school that began last weekend with and in-class session, adding, “for the many rookies…seat time is important and I was quite surprised in how quickly they became comfortable on the track and the parents and crew members asked a lot of good questions.”
2004 Junior Restricted Light Rookie of the Year driver Andy Tallman is anxiously awaiting the start of the new kart season. Tallman is one of the first competitors to use the new optional Briggs & Stratton Animal Engine that is slates to replace the Raptor Engine in coming years.
“It has a lot more power,” relates Tallman, “the engine and kart combination really performed well…awesome bite out of the turns.”
“There was a good mix of rookies and veterans,” said BRP’s Randy Williamson of both stock car schools. “From Windsor to Quebec into Pennsylvania in addition to Southern Ontario and Western New York.”
Despite fighting the effects of sun and wind on Saturday, several of the drivers broke into the 17 second lap time mark. Sunday’s times were a little better, and for much of the day, participants enjoyed overcast skies.
“For the rookies and experienced drivers alike that had never seen Merrittville’s d-shaped oval, I was quite happy,” adds Williamson, “they all showed considerable improvement from start to finish.”
Saturday’s Stock Car session saw 12 drivers take to the track while Sunday’s session seen 14.
For further information on Bicknell Racing Products or to find a dealer near you, call 905-685-7223 or visit www.bicknellracingproducts.com .
Merrittville Speedway’s 54th consecutive season begins Saturday, April 24th with a practice session for all divisions, followed by Time Trials for the 358 Modifieds and Sportsman. Pit gates will open at noon with tech inspection slated to start at 1pm. The race track will open at 5pm for practice.
For more information contact the Speedway Office at 905-892-8266 or visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com
***
PEN CENTER NIGHT KICKS OFF LADIES RACE SERIES AT MERRITTVILLE
THOROLD, ON – Mother’s Day weekend at Merrittville traditionally kicks off the Ladies Race Series of events at the Thorold track. Representatives from the Pen Center – Niagara’s largest shopping destination are guests in the Trackside Hospitality Suite and throughout the grandstands.
May 7th’s race card will be the second point event of 2004 for all divisions featured in the DIRT Weekly Racing Series – the L. St. Amand Enterprises 358 Modifieds, Original Pizza Logs Sportsmen, Seneca Niagara Casino Dwarf Cars, Hoosier Stocks and 4 Cylinders.
Four Ladies Race Series events dot the 2004 schedule and with the traditional Mother’s Day weekend Series kickoff, all eyes will be on Christine Porter as she attempts to win her second straight Mini-Series title in 2005.
If Porter attempts to defend her first title, competition will surely come form former Champion Charlene Dooley, Karen Kocarik and others. All ladies wishing further information on the Ladies Race Series can contact the Speedway Office.
Prior to the start of the season, the Pen Centre played host to a Merrittville Speedway Race Car show and several teams have confirmed their attendance from March 29th to April 3rd.
Merrittville Speedway was well represented by rookies and veterans alike as Mike Bowman, Alan Sleight, Kevin Knapp, and Paul Klager unveiled their new cars – all set for their first years in the Sportsmen, Hoosier Stock and Dwarf Car Classes.
Veterans Scott Wood, Pete Bicknell, Bill Willard, Rob Knapp, Dan Miller, Doug Spiece, Travis Braun and Ken Cosgrove also had their cars on display.
Former Pro Stock Champion Darren Kish and Wayne Adamczak had their BRP Can Am Super Stock Late Models showcased in preparation for their August 20th Gabriel Maintenance special.
Merrittville Speedway’s Kart Club was also well represented by Brett Robbins, Rob Hutchison, Mat Williamson and Steve Sim.
For further information on the Pen Centre visit www.thepencentre.com. The Pen Centre is located at HWY 406 and Glendale Avenue in St. Catharines and Store Hours are Monday to Friday 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Saturday from 9:30 to 6:00 and on Sundays from Noon to 6 PM.
Merrittville Speedway is presenting its 54th consecutive season of dirt track excitement in 2005. For information on DIRT Weekly Racing Series events and upcoming specials call 905-892-8266 or visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com .
Merrittville Speedway is located in Thorold Ontario on Merrittville Highway.
It’s Saturday Night Live and it’s Merrittville Speedway – The Best Family Entertainment in Niagara!
(From Merrittville Speedway / From Jim Irvine)
Merrittville Speedway was recently host to the 2nd Annual Bicknell Racing Products Chassis Seminar and Pete Bicknell Driving School for rookie and veteran drivers alike that enrolled.
“It just doesn’t compare to racing a kart,” relates an awestruck Nick Cupolo after his first few laps in his Cairn Croft Hotel 99c Sportsman. “It was amazing,” boasted Mat Williamson, adding, “I can’t wait until the season starts.” For the 2004 KC Auto Parts Original Pizza Logs Junior Restricted Light Kart Champion, this season will also include attempting to defend his kart title in addition to taking on a stock car schedule Saturday Nights.
Chris Steele also looks to do double duty again this season as he did last, continuing on in the Philbrick Farm & Garden Senior kart class while racing in his sophomore season in the Seneca Niagara Casino Dwarf Car division. Steele attended the conclusion of the RCM Racing Equipment/Philbrick Farm & Garden Kart School on track session helping out some of the novice karters and then put his Saturday Night Mod Lite through the Sunday Stock Car session.
“I’m looking forward to having a lot of fun,” relates Steele’s father Owen, adding, “I’m not sure what results I’ll have though.” The elder Steele is set to follow his son into Dwarf Car racing with Chris’ car of last year.
“It was a real successful morning,” informs instructor Paul Klager, of the track portion of the kart school that began last weekend with and in-class session, adding, “for the many rookies…seat time is important and I was quite surprised in how quickly they became comfortable on the track and the parents and crew members asked a lot of good questions.”
2004 Junior Restricted Light Rookie of the Year driver Andy Tallman is anxiously awaiting the start of the new kart season. Tallman is one of the first competitors to use the new optional Briggs & Stratton Animal Engine that is slates to replace the Raptor Engine in coming years.
“It has a lot more power,” relates Tallman, “the engine and kart combination really performed well…awesome bite out of the turns.”
“There was a good mix of rookies and veterans,” said BRP’s Randy Williamson of both stock car schools. “From Windsor to Quebec into Pennsylvania in addition to Southern Ontario and Western New York.”
Despite fighting the effects of sun and wind on Saturday, several of the drivers broke into the 17 second lap time mark. Sunday’s times were a little better, and for much of the day, participants enjoyed overcast skies.
“For the rookies and experienced drivers alike that had never seen Merrittville’s d-shaped oval, I was quite happy,” adds Williamson, “they all showed considerable improvement from start to finish.”
Saturday’s Stock Car session saw 12 drivers take to the track while Sunday’s session seen 14.
For further information on Bicknell Racing Products or to find a dealer near you, call 905-685-7223 or visit www.bicknellracingproducts.com .
Merrittville Speedway’s 54th consecutive season begins Saturday, April 24th with a practice session for all divisions, followed by Time Trials for the 358 Modifieds and Sportsman. Pit gates will open at noon with tech inspection slated to start at 1pm. The race track will open at 5pm for practice.
For more information contact the Speedway Office at 905-892-8266 or visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com
***
PEN CENTER NIGHT KICKS OFF LADIES RACE SERIES AT MERRITTVILLE
THOROLD, ON – Mother’s Day weekend at Merrittville traditionally kicks off the Ladies Race Series of events at the Thorold track. Representatives from the Pen Center – Niagara’s largest shopping destination are guests in the Trackside Hospitality Suite and throughout the grandstands.
May 7th’s race card will be the second point event of 2004 for all divisions featured in the DIRT Weekly Racing Series – the L. St. Amand Enterprises 358 Modifieds, Original Pizza Logs Sportsmen, Seneca Niagara Casino Dwarf Cars, Hoosier Stocks and 4 Cylinders.
Four Ladies Race Series events dot the 2004 schedule and with the traditional Mother’s Day weekend Series kickoff, all eyes will be on Christine Porter as she attempts to win her second straight Mini-Series title in 2005.
If Porter attempts to defend her first title, competition will surely come form former Champion Charlene Dooley, Karen Kocarik and others. All ladies wishing further information on the Ladies Race Series can contact the Speedway Office.
Prior to the start of the season, the Pen Centre played host to a Merrittville Speedway Race Car show and several teams have confirmed their attendance from March 29th to April 3rd.
Merrittville Speedway was well represented by rookies and veterans alike as Mike Bowman, Alan Sleight, Kevin Knapp, and Paul Klager unveiled their new cars – all set for their first years in the Sportsmen, Hoosier Stock and Dwarf Car Classes.
Veterans Scott Wood, Pete Bicknell, Bill Willard, Rob Knapp, Dan Miller, Doug Spiece, Travis Braun and Ken Cosgrove also had their cars on display.
Former Pro Stock Champion Darren Kish and Wayne Adamczak had their BRP Can Am Super Stock Late Models showcased in preparation for their August 20th Gabriel Maintenance special.
Merrittville Speedway’s Kart Club was also well represented by Brett Robbins, Rob Hutchison, Mat Williamson and Steve Sim.
For further information on the Pen Centre visit www.thepencentre.com. The Pen Centre is located at HWY 406 and Glendale Avenue in St. Catharines and Store Hours are Monday to Friday 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Saturday from 9:30 to 6:00 and on Sundays from Noon to 6 PM.
Merrittville Speedway is presenting its 54th consecutive season of dirt track excitement in 2005. For information on DIRT Weekly Racing Series events and upcoming specials call 905-892-8266 or visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com .
Merrittville Speedway is located in Thorold Ontario on Merrittville Highway.
It’s Saturday Night Live and it’s Merrittville Speedway – The Best Family Entertainment in Niagara!
(From Merrittville Speedway / From Jim Irvine)
STOCKS: Junior Canadian Auto Racing (JCAR)
Junior Canadian Auto Racing
2005 'Super Series' Schedule
May 28 - Varney Motor Speedway
June 4 - Sauble Speedway
June 18 - Grand Bend Speedway
July 16 - Sauble Speedway
July 30 - Grand Bend Speedway
August 13 - Sauble Speedway
August 27 - Grand Bend Speedway
Sept. 10 - Sauble Speedway
Sept. 24 - Varney Speedway (50 Laps - Final Points)
The JCAR (JUNIOR CANADIAN AUTO RACING) series gives drivers of all ages the opportunity to feel the excitement of auto racing in a fun, safe, and inexpensive environment.
For more information about JCAR, please visit: www.jcarracing.ca
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
F1 / ADSCAM: T.O. Star story on Montreal GP ticket scam
TheStar.com - Grand Prix ticket costs `hidden' in paperwork: "Grand Prix ticket costs `hidden' in paperwork
MIRO CERNETIG
QUEBEC BUREAU CHIEF
Montreal - Most Canadians would be hard-pressed to pay $2,800 for a three-day ticket into the Montreal Grand Prix's 'Paddock Club,' where the champagne flows and jet-setters and celebrities watch Formula One racing in luxury.
Four tickets to the Formula One in Monza, Italy - price tag $12,000 - would probably be an even bigger stretch.
But it was no problem for Jean Brault, the racing buff and president of Groupaction, the ad firm at the centre of the federal sponsorship scandal. He simply arranged to have the cost buried inside two sponsorship contracts - and had taxpayers foot the bill.
'Is there no integrity in invoicing?' demanded Justice John Gomery, when presented with a series of invoices at the sponsorship inquiry yesterday.
The inquiry was also presented with evidence Chuck Guite the civil servant who once ran Ottawa's $250-million sponsorship program, was offered those tickets to Italy. It was unclear, however, if he used them.
Documents presented to the Gomery commission show about $264,000 worth of Montreal Formula One tickets - enough for about 600 Groupaction guests who have yet to be named - were hidden in a sponsorship contract arranged between the ad firm and Grand Prix F1 du Canada Inc., which runs the Montreal race.
The original sponsorship - costing Ottawa about $1 million to fly the flag at the 1998 Montreal Grand Prix race - was boosted by the amount of the tickets, documents show.
... more ...
MIRO CERNETIG
QUEBEC BUREAU CHIEF
Montreal - Most Canadians would be hard-pressed to pay $2,800 for a three-day ticket into the Montreal Grand Prix's 'Paddock Club,' where the champagne flows and jet-setters and celebrities watch Formula One racing in luxury.
Four tickets to the Formula One in Monza, Italy - price tag $12,000 - would probably be an even bigger stretch.
But it was no problem for Jean Brault, the racing buff and president of Groupaction, the ad firm at the centre of the federal sponsorship scandal. He simply arranged to have the cost buried inside two sponsorship contracts - and had taxpayers foot the bill.
'Is there no integrity in invoicing?' demanded Justice John Gomery, when presented with a series of invoices at the sponsorship inquiry yesterday.
The inquiry was also presented with evidence Chuck Guite the civil servant who once ran Ottawa's $250-million sponsorship program, was offered those tickets to Italy. It was unclear, however, if he used them.
Documents presented to the Gomery commission show about $264,000 worth of Montreal Formula One tickets - enough for about 600 Groupaction guests who have yet to be named - were hidden in a sponsorship contract arranged between the ad firm and Grand Prix F1 du Canada Inc., which runs the Montreal race.
The original sponsorship - costing Ottawa about $1 million to fly the flag at the 1998 Montreal Grand Prix race - was boosted by the amount of the tickets, documents show.
... more ...
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