National Auto Sport News
Toyo Tires Returns as Official Tire of NASA through 2020
Published on October 12, 2015 20:46
Toyo Tires, the Official Tire of NASA, returns with its support of the 25-Hours of Thunderhill
Published on September 30, 2015 15:36
September 30, 2015
Toyo Tires® Supports NASA Road Racers during the 25-Hours of Thunderhill™
With Industry-Leading On-Site Hospitality
CYPRESS, CA – Toyo Tires®, the Official Tire of NASA, returns with its support of the 25-Hours of Thunderhill™ December 5-6 at Thunderhill Raceway Park in Northern California. Celebrating its 13th year at the Official Tire of NASA, Toyo Tires will once again provide an industry-leading on-site hospitality program for qualified competitors using Toyo® Proxes® tires.
The 25-Hours of Thunderhill is held annually by the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) and is considered the longest endurance road race in North America. Racers travel from around the continent to compete in this prestigious event.
This will be the fourth consecutive year that Toyo Tires will have its VIP rig on-site to provide free meals at the track on Friday through Sunday. Registered participants will also receive free mounting and balancing services from Thunderhill AIM Tire on all preorders and via trackside service at Thunderhill Raceway Park from December 4-6.
"The support Toyo Tires
gives competitors at the NASA 25 hours of Thunderhill presented by Hawk
Performance is unmatched," said Jeremy Croiset, NASA's Director of
Business Development. "The race has quickly grown to become the preeminent
pro-am endurance race in North America.
It is fantastic to have Toyo on board again this year to support
competitors who choose the Toyo Tires brand, as they seem to really appreciate
it."
“We are proud to offer a VIP support program for competitors using Toyo tires,” said Marc Sanzenbacher, senior manager, motorsports, Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. “We recognize the extraordinary effort that goes into “Surviving the 25” and Toyo Tires is committed to helping make the 25-Hours of Thunderhill one of the most memorable and enjoyable road racing events each year.”
The program applies to racers using the Toyo Proxes® RS1™ full-slick, the Proxes® RR DOT competition, and the Proxes® R888™ tire in dry conditions; while the Proxes® R1R™ and Proxes® RA1™ are approved for wet use.
Space for this special program is limited. Racers must register for the VIP hospitality at toyotires.com/races-and-places/racer-direct-program and tire purchases must be made through one of the following dealers by November 27.
AIM Tire
Ron Cortez
(707) 938-9193
aimtires@aol.com
Thunderhill AIM Tire
Jim Thompson
(530) 519-2201
jim@thunderhill.com
To learn more about the 25-Hours of Thunderhill, check out http://nasa25hour.com/. For more information about the Toyo Tires contingency offered for NASA competitors, go to https://www.nasaproracing.com/contingencies.
About Toyo Tires®
Established in 1966, Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. represents the innovation, quality, performance, and excellent service that Toyo Tires has delivered worldwide for nearly 70 years.
The company offers a complete selection of premium replacement tires for nearly every make and model including light trucks, SUVs, high performance cars and luxury vehicles as well as the M-Line for commercial trucks. Consumer product lines include the popular Open Country® tires for light trucks and SUVs; Proxes® ultra-high performance tires; Versado® tires for luxury passenger cars; Celsius® variable conditions tires; and the value line of Extensa® passenger car tires. Many of the tires are built in the United States at their state-of-the-art factory in Bartow County, Georgia.
For more information log onto www.toyotires.com and connect with the community at Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Google+.
Media Contact: Jay Jones, TMC
949-851-6313, jay.jones@tmcauto.com
Toyo Media Site: http://media.toyotires.com/
NASA Announces Details for 2016 Western States Championships Presented by Toyo Tires
Published on September 24, 2015 18:03
Napa Valley, CA (September 24, 2015) - The National Auto Sport Association
(NASA) is pleased to announce that the 2016 Western States Championships
presented by Toyo Tires will take place at the challenging Buttonwillow Raceway
Park on October 13-16, 2016. NASA competitors from all over the western region
of the country will converge on this Southern California circuit situated just
22 miles outside of Bakersfield, CA to challenge for top step on the podium to
claim a NASA Championship.
“Buttonwillow Raceway Park requires precision to put
together a perfect lap, but also offers ample room for 3 wide racing making it
a great choice for our Championship event,” said Ryan Flaherty, NASA National
Chairman. “New drivers to this track always leave with a great experience and
can’t wait to return. Best of all, it is located almost half way between SoCal
and NorCal, so we look forward to a record number of entries. NASA racers
always enjoy this track and I am confident that it will 
be a great venue for
our Championship event. This event will provide competitors from all over the
western states the opportunity to see if they really have what it takes to be a
NASA Champion while still providing a exciting and enjoyable weekend experience
which is what the Championships is all about.”
“We look forward to welcoming all NASA competitors to Southern California for what should be an amazing event in 2016!" Buttonwillow Raceway President, Les Phillips said. “NASA has been hosting top notch regional racing at our track for more than 18 years. It will be a privilege to host their Championships and everyone here will work hard to ensure NASA drivers, crew, and family have a memorable event experience.”
2016 will mark the 25th anniversary for NASA and the 11th anniversary for our NASA Championship events. We expect to welcome over 600 competitors to our Championship events in 2016 providing competitors with the same fantastic benefits they have come to expect from the event. From the famous trackside gatherings and wonderfully lucrative contingency programs to the extremely competitive racing, the NASA Championships has truly become “the” place to race.
Look for additional announcements regarding the 2016 NASA Championship events in the future.
2015 NASA Eastern States Championships presented by Toyo Tires Videos
Published on September 22, 2015 05:21
Click here to watch the video from the 2015 NASA Eastern States Championships Presented by Toyo TiresSee what you missed from the 2015 NASA Eastern States Championships Presented by Toyo Tires.
Racers share their stories of what it means to race at the biggest NASA event on the East Coast, and why they want to become a NASA Champion. With amazing footage captured from the event, watch as you see just what makes the NASA Championships "the" place to race for real Champions.
Click here to watch 2015 Eastern States Championships HPD Honda Challenge Series Video
A very special thanks to HPD (Honda Performance Development) for bringing us this coverage and being the presenting sponsor of the Honda Challenge Series from the 2015 NASA Eastern States Championship Presented by Toyo Tires.
With epic on-board, aerial and track-side footage, you'll not want to miss the action as some of the best in the nation battle to become the first ever NASA Eastern States HPD Honda Challenge Champion. You will also gain insights as to why they love racing Hondas, with these people, in this Championship. Honda Challenge is a series only available to members of the National Auto Sport Association.
Click here to watch 2015 Eastern States Championships Spec Miata Series Video
A very special thanks to Mazda for bringing us this coverage and being the presenting sponsor of the Spec Miata class from the 2015 NASA Eastern States Championship Presented by Toyo Tires.
Arguably the toughest class in all of motor racing, NASA Spec Miata will treat you to the kind of action for which you love watching motorsports. Watch as forty two Spec Miatas take the green at the Inaugural NASA Eastern States Championship. Learn what makes this particular race special to the drivers of Mazda's finest roadster.
NASA Announces Details for 2016 Eastern States Championships Presented by Toyo Tires
Published on September 17, 2015 16:09
Napa Valley, CA (September 17, 2015) - The National Auto Sport Association
(NASA) is pleased to announce that the 2016 Eastern States Championships
presented by Toyo Tires will take place at the historic Watkins Glen International
Circuit. The circuit, which is located in beautiful Watkins Glen, NY has played
host to many of the world’s greatest motor races and on September 22 through
25, NASA competitors will battle it out to see who earns their place in NASA
history.
"The historic nature of the Glen carries with it
a special allure for so many competitors and we couldn’t be more excited to bring
one of NASA’s biggest events of the year to this world-renowned facility",
said Ryan Flaherty, NASA National Chairman. "The NASA Championships has
proven to be one of the most competitive places in the country to test your
skills while still also remaining an absolutely stellar experience for all
involved. We look forward to welcoming all NASA competitors at what should
prove to be an amazing event in 2016!"
2016 will mark the 25th anniversary for NASA and the 11th anniversary for our NASA Championship events. We expect to welcome over 600 competitors to our Championship events in 2016 providing competitors with the same fantastic benefits they have come to expect from the event. From the famous trackside gatherings and wonderfully lucrative contingency programs to the extremely competitive racing, the NASA Championships has truly become “the” place to race.
Look for additional announcements regarding the 2016 Western States Championships event in the coming weeks.
2015 NASA Eastern States Championships presented by Toyo Tires Crowns Champions
Published on September 08, 2015 20:02
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2015 NASA Eastern States Championships presented by Toyo Tires Sets Grids for Finals
Published on September 06, 2015 02:31
NASA Eastern States Championships presented by Toyo Tires Sets Grids for Finals
Qualifying races in the books
ALTON, Va. (Sept. 5, 2015) – The second annual NASA Eastern States Championships presented by Toyo Tires has set the grids for its championship races tomorrow at VIRginia International Raceway.
Under mixed weather conditions alternating between light rain and sun shine, the over 300 competitors have made it through two days of practice and qualifying races leading up to tomorrow’s championship races at the 3.27 mile, 17-turn VIR circuit.
The GTS class opened Saturday’s round of qualifying races. At the ten minute mark a full course caution flew erasing Randy Mueller’s, Friday’s winner, eighth second lead. He would go on to post his second qualifying race win in his GTS4 BMW M3. In GTS3 Edgar Cabrera was able to hold off Eric Wong’s BMW to win in his No. 184 BMW.
“It was crazy,” Cabrera said. “We had some rain sprinkles toward the end during the yellow. When the race went green I got attacked on both sides. It was crazy and tight all the way around. I was able to hold them off for the last three laps of green. It is time to go over the car for the big one tomorrow.”
In Spec Miata it was, once again, Blake Clements taking the win in his No. 6 Miata. Clements had help from second place runner Chris Haldeman, bump drafting and creating some separation to third place finisher Hernan Palermo. Once again the 35 Spec Miata competitors ran a clean caution qualifying race.
“We had a pretty good race,” Clements said. “The OPM Autosports guys worked really hard last night and put a good car under me. We had a good morning warm-up running in the top three. I started third and I was able to take advantage of the start and get into second in the first corner. I was able to take the lead on the backstretch. I had Chris with me the whole time which really helped. Then it got tricky later in the race, we were coming down the hill and it started to rain. All-in-all it was a good run for our OPM Autosports, SPN, CarboTech, Traqmate Spec Miata.”
In the Spec E30 race, yesterday’s qualifying race winner Sandro Espinosa hooked up with No. 125 Alex Barroso in his BMW 325 and the pair were able to open up a couple second gap to third. On lap five a full course caution flew, bunching the all BMW field. The race went green and then another full caution flew. On the restart, with one lap remaining, Larry Fraser took the lead into Turn 1 and the race win.
“It was a pretty good race,” Fraser said. “I started eighth and just went about picking cars off one at a time. I got lucky with two yellows. They helped bring the front two cars back to me. On the last restart I passed Sandro going into Turn 1. I then went all four wheels off up in South Bend, collected it up and still won.”
Spec 3 also had a new qualifying race winner. Jon McAvoy took the win in his No. 07 BMW.
“The best way to describe the race is mayhem,” McAvoy said. “We had a good race going with all seven BMW drivers, eat what you kill type environment. On the second restart I was halfway up the E30 pack. I had several of those guys spin in front us in turns 5, 7 and 10. Managing traffic is what helped me get up front today.”
The 944 Spec race was a great three way battle between Friday’s race winner Neal Agran, Dan Pina and Jason Walsh. The mid-race full course caution brought the trio back to the rest of the field. Two laps after the restart a final caution flew with the officials restarting the race with a green and white flag. Agran was able to hold off the charging field on the one lap dash for his second win in two days.
The Super Unlimited cars were able to hit the track in dry conditions this afternoon. Jeff Hinkle in his No. 5 Dodge Challenger was the early leader until Ray Cocoziello drove his No. 17 Crawford Daytona Prototype the front and the overall group win.
“It was a very competitive race,” Cocoziello said. “We passed each other twice in the 20-minute race. It was a great adrenalin rush. We had some suspension and tire issues this morning and we did a good job to get the car set-up for the race. I anticipate a tough race tomorrow in the final with Jeff.”
Also in the group Joe Moholland won ST1 in his Corvette, Kevin Harvey took the ST2 win his No. 01 Corvette, in In AI it was the No. 77 Mustang of Bruce Byerly and in SI it was Robert Miller in the No. 20 Mustang.
In HPD Honda Challenge 1 David Isbell, No. 7 Acura Integra, started from the back of the grid as a result of being disqualified from his race win yesterday. Isbell was racing Kevin Helms Civic all race until Helms experienced some overheating and had to back off. In HPD Honda Challenge 2 Jeremy Lucas took the win in his Honda S2000, again starting from the back of the grid.
“I had a good race,” Isbell said. “I had to start from the back. I made good progress up through the field and got up to David Helms and had a good race. Toward the end my car starting to mess up. I think I got some water in the fuel from all the rain yesterday. My Toyo tires held up the whole time. A pretty good day.”
“It was quite a run from last to first,” Lucas said. “I got a good start, I was able to pass a couple of cars before Turn 1. The fastest car out there today had a mechanical problem. I didn’t give up, I just kept driving. I didn’t think a win was possible today. I start last again tomorrow, so let’s see if I can do it two days in a row.”
In PTD-F Eric Powell took the early lead until he pulled his Mazda Miata into pit lane. Jason Fitzpatrick inherited the lead in his No. 74 VW Passat. Jason Kohler, No. 848 Mazda Miata, was the winner in PTE and the Team Edge Motorworks No. 1 Mini won in PTF.
“My race went pretty well,” Fitzpatrick said. “It is a shame that Eric pulled in. I was looking forward to catching him and battling it out. There is a few more things to pull out of the bag to see if we can give him run in the final. I am going to start second. Strategy for tomorrow is to go like hell. My advantage is the horsepower. I keep joking that I have the weight of a Miata on my front two wheels. If I get it off the corner the VW will really go.”
Follow the NASA Championship action:
Live stream: https://livestream.com/nasa/
Timing and scoring: http://bit.ly/1JFszqG
Schedule: http://bit.ly/1Jh0RAC
Entry: http://bit.ly/1K2bBbL
VIRginia International Raceway’s 3.27 miles encompasses nearly every kind of turn. The fast uphill esses that lead into the signature Oak Tree Turn are known throughout the racing community. The long laps will reward a good race car set-up and require the competitors to display their driving skills as well as race craft.
2015 NASA Eastern States Championships presented by Toyo Tires Takes the Green Flag at VIR
Published on September 05, 2015 17:44
NASA Eastern States Championships presented by Toyo Tires Takes the Green Flag at VIR
Qualifying races underway
ALTON, Va. (Sept. 4, 2015) – The second annual NASA Eastern States Championships presented by Toyo Tires is underway at VIRginia International Raceway (VIR).
Over 300 competitors have filled the paddock and are busy setting up their cars and running qualifying races around the 3.27 mile, 17-turn VIR circuit.
In the first qualifying race of the day, Randy Mueller drove his No. 0 Epic BMW M3 to the GTS class overall win. Mueller a four-time NASA Champion is poised for a fifth.
“It was a good run for us,” Mueller said. “I started from the pole. I was able to get a nice clean start. Then I just put my head down and focused on running some clean laps. Once I opened up the gap I focused on keeping the BMW off of the curbs. It’s all about having a car ready for Sunday.”
HPD Honda Challenge witnessed some tight racing. David Isbell drove his No. 7 Acura Integra from the back of the field to post an impressive qualifying race win.
“I had a pretty good race,” Isbell said. “I had to start at the back of the grid because we had a problem with the car this morning. I got a good start. I came up to the Oak Tree Turn and a couple of cars went off so that helped. From there I went from seventh to third. I was driving a clean race then a couple more cars slid off and I assumed the lead. My Toyo tires helped me get to the checker. A good start.”
As the high-horsepower car hit the track the clouds opened up and rain came, catching the competitors on dry tires in a downpour of rain. After lap one a full course caution flew and then the NASA officials black flagged the race. Soon after the officials put out the checker with No. 9 Dodge Challenger driven by Jeff Hinkle listed as the top finisher based upon his fast qualifying time from the morning.
As the rain continued, 39 Spec Miata race cars took to the track. From the drop of the green flag the No. 39 of Danny Steyn was the early class leader. On lap a sudden downpour in Turn 1 sent the top two cars off the track resulting in a black flag. The No. 6 Blake Clements declared the winner of qualifying race one.
“It was pretty wild,” Clements said. “I originally started in seventh. I didn’t have a great qualifying effort. We put the Toyo rain tires on and went out for the qualifying race. I was able to get a couple of positions in the first lap. I was in third on the second lap and was biding my time, I knew I was in a good spot. On the fifth lap when we crossed the start finish line it really began to pour. I could barely see going into Turn 1. I let out of it and rolled into one. The two cars in front of me were off in the grass. I then went off a little into Turn 3, brought it back on and then the race went yellow and ended. I want to be consistent the rest of the weekend and see what happens on Sunday.”
The 30 car Spec E30 class took to the track with the rain still coming down. As a testament to the driving ability of the one the largest fields of the weekend, the race went caution free with Sandro Espinosa driving his No. 32 BMW to the win.
“It was a lot of fun out there in the rain,” Espinosa said. “I started from sixth place, which is tough in the rain. Everyone behaved at the start. We are all friends, so we know and take care of each other. I was passing one car, by one car very safely. Sean Curran and I were able to pull away a little. I figured out that at the Oak Tree Turn I could get a pull from him and was able to overtake for the lead. There was surprising grip out there in the rain. Thanks to Toyo Tires and Bimmerworld for the help this weekend.”
In 944 Spec Neal Agran drove his No. 84 Porsche 944 to the win over Dan Pina. The two exchanged the lead in the rain early until Agran took the lead for good and the win.
“Fantastic,” Agran said. “Dan Pina and I race all of the time together in the mid-west and he is a great competitor. I’ve never raced with Dan Williams in the wet. Being from Colorado where it doesn’t rain much, I didn’t think he would have anything for me. He was all over me like a cheap suit. I really won through consistency. I was just clicking laps off at the same pace, one after the other. That is what it took today.”
In Spec 3 Justin Taylor took the qualifying race win in his No. 36 BMW. Taylor took the lead from the second position on the grid and never looked back.
“I qualified second,” Taylor said. “Starting in the front row helped, I was able to jump out the lead and get a good pace going in the rain. I was able to build up a little gap and just focused on being consistent, not slide around too much and finish the race.”
In PTD-F it was Brett Westcott in his No. 58 Nissan that was the class of the field. He was able to overtake the No. 47 Mazda Miata of Kopitski for the class win.
“It was really wet out there,” Westcottl said. “This is my first time at VIR. I am surprised I did as well. My BFGoodrich tires were hooked-up, the KDWR shocks were working great. My car was handling good in the rain. The only problem was a fogged up windshield. Everything else was great.”
Follow the NASA Championship action:
Live stream: https://livestream.com/nasa/
Timing and scoring: http://bit.ly/1JFszqG
Schedule: http://bit.ly/1Jh0RAC
Entry: http://bit.ly/1K2bBbL
VIRginia International Raceway’s 3.27 miles encompasses nearly every kind of turn. The fast uphill esses that lead into the signature Oak Tree Turn are known throughout the racing community. The long laps will reward a good race car set-up and require the competitors to display their driving skills as well as race craft.
About Toyo Tires
Founded in 1945, Toyo Tires has stood for innovation, quality, performance, and excellent service around the world for over 65 years. The company offers a complete line of premium replacement tires for nearly all makes and models, including high-performance cars, luxury vehicles, light trucks and SUVs as well as commercial trucks.
About NASA
The National Auto Sport Association (NASA) was formed in 1991 with the premise of delivering high-quality motorsports events to enthusiasts at major racing venues throughout the nation. NASA has created programs that allow owners of both racecars and high-performance street-driven vehicles to enjoy the full performance capabilities of their cars in a controlled professionally managed environment. NASA offers many different programs that will allow you to enjoy motorsports on a number of different levels, including our High Performance Driving Events (HPDE), Rally Sport, Time Trial, NASA-X and Competition Racing programs.
NASA Membership
NASA members are entitled to enter and participate in any NASA event across the country, and membership includes an array of benefits, including vendor discounts and a subscription to the organizations online newsletter the NASA Speed News. Members will also receive a colorful membership hard card that will identify them as part of the organization and a welcome packet that includes more information on the many benefits and programs available to NASA members. While participating at events, all NASA members are covered by an extensive insurance policy, which includes General Liability, Accidental Death and Dismemberment, and Excess Medical coverage. Best of all, membership is only $45. Refer to www.nasaproracing.com for member information.
NASA Thanks Our Partners
NASA would like to thank its National sponsors for their continued support: Toyo Tires, Mazda, Hawk Performance, Winding Road Racing, and GoPro. We also want to thank MAZDASPEED, Honda Performance Development (HPD), Nissan, and Ford Motor Company for supporting our members. We greatly appreciate those companies that offer our racers contingency support, including Toyo Tires, AIM Sports, AST Suspension, BFGoodrich, Ford Racing, Maxxis Tires, Traqmate, Hawk Performance, Honda Performance Development (HPD), Hoosier Racing Tire, MAZDASPEED, Nissan, Jongbloed Racing Wheels, Bimmerworld, Frozen Rotors, Optic Armor, Neo Motorsports, Spec Clutches, Driven Racing Oil, Altronics Inc., ANZE Suspension, GT Radial Tire, Tilton, Racefab Inc., Sampson Racing Communications and Yokohama. NASA competitors can also get discounts from Mazda, Maxxis Tires, Racing Fire Systems, Ford Performance Racing School,Fuel Safe, Vehiport, APR Performance, Avis, Cruise America, Eibach Springs, Exedy, Fastbrakes, Konig, The Mid-Ohio School, Konig, Molecule, Red Line Oil, Winding Road Racing, Torco, TPIS, Porterfield and Monster Clutch.
NASA at a Glance
NASA was founded in 1991 on the premise of providing motorsport competition programs that allow owners of both racecars and high-performance street-driven vehicles to enjoy the full-performance capabilities of their cars in a safe and controlled environment.
NASA has over 14,000 members in 16 regions.
Key events include the NASA Western Championships at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, July 31 - Aug. 2; the Eastern Championships at Virginia International Raceway Sept. 4-6 and the season culminating NASA 25 Hours of Thunderhill, Dec. 5-6.
The NASA National Championships will run 36 race classes and nine Time-Trial classes during the event.
NASA runs over 150 events each year encompassing over 250 races, including the association's Rally Sport and Time-Trial program.
Manufacturer partners include MAZDASPEED, Honda Performance Development (HPD), Nissan and Ford Racing.
NASA Management: Jerry Kunzman, Executive Director; Ryan Flaherty, National Chairman; Jeremy Croiset, Director of Business Development; Dave Ho, Business Operations Manager, Will Faules, National Event Manager.
Follow NASA
Internet: nasaproracing.com
Facebook: National Auto Sport Association
Twitter: nasaproracing
Instagram: nasaproracing
2015 NASA Eastern States Championships presented by Toyo Tires Ready for the Green Flag
Published on September 03, 2015 19:22
NASA Eastern States Championships presented by Toyo Tires Ready for Green Flag
300+ NASA competitors ready to race
NAPA VALLEY, Calif. (Sept. 2, 2015) - The second annual NASA Eastern States Championships presented by Toyo Tires to run at VIRginia International Raceway (VIR) is ready to take the green flag this weekend, Sept. 3-6.
The 3.27 mile, 17-turn VIR circuit will be home to the 300+ drivers who will compete for the title of NASA Eastern Champion.
Two-time NASA Champion Eric Kuhns will be debuting his new "Franken44" Porsche at the championships. Coming from the 944 Spec Class, Kuhns is ready to make his mark on the Super Touring 2 Class this weekend.
"The Franken44 has a 5.7-liter
LS1 Corvette motor," Kuhns said. "I have just three race weekends on
the car. It's been great. The Franken44 is powerful, reliable, and oh man does
it sound great! I ran my qualifying races at Mid-Ohio, Road America, and
Gingerman. I see David Farmer and Greg Vannucci as the main competition in ST2.
I am sure there will be some fast guys I don't know about. My goals are to
first, race clean, second, have a good time - that's why we do this - and third
develop the new car at a high level of competition and lastly push hard to get
on the podium." 
Zephyr Belski is a two time Honda
Challenge 5 NASA National Champion from 2006 and 2007.
"I have a new car this season so my goals at VIR this weekend are modest. I hope to finish in a position higher than I start," Belski said. "I ran at VIR this year, so I have a pretty good idea of how to set-up my Acura for this weekend. I hope that will give me a slight advantage. I have been attending races at VIR since 2003 starting in HPDE, it is an amazing track."
NASA event director, Jon Felton, is ready to welcome a great grid of competitors.
"Everyone I talk to is excited about the NASA Eastern States Championship event this weekend," Felton said. "The plans are made, the competitors are putting the final touches on their cars and we will be ready to welcome them to VIR. By the looks of the 300+ entries we are going to have a great weekend of racing and camaraderie."
VIRginia
International Raceway's 3.27 miles encompasses nearly every kind of turn. The
fast uphill esses that lead into the signature Oak Tree Turn are known
throughout the racing community. The long laps will reward a good race car
set-up and require the competitors to display their driving skills as well as
race craft. 
For additional information, please contact NASA Championships Media Director, Kyle Chura at kyle@kcapr.com or (248) 821-0468. More detail can be found at nasaproracing.com or nasachampionships.com.
To qualify for the NASA National
Championships presented by Toyo Tires, NASA competitors must compete in and
score points in five races for entry into the NASA Eastern States
Championships.
About Toyo Tires
Founded in 1945, Toyo Tires has stood for innovation, quality, performance, and excellent service around the world for over 65 years. The company offers a complete line of premium replacement tires for nearly all makes and models, including high-performance cars, luxury vehicles, light trucks and SUVs as well as commercial trucks.
About NASA
The National Auto Sport Association (NASA) was formed in 1991 with the premise of delivering high-quality motorsports events to enthusiasts at major racing venues throughout the nation. NASA has created programs that allow owners of both racecars and high-performance street-driven vehicles to enjoy the full performance capabilities of their cars in a controlled professionally managed environment. NASA offers many different programs that will allow you to enjoy motorsports on a number of different levels, including our High Performance Driving Events (HPDE), Rally Sport, Time Trial, NASA-X and Competition Racing programs.
NASA Membership
NASA members are entitled to enter and participate in any NASA event across the country, and membership includes an array of benefits, including vendor discounts and a subscription to the organizations online newsletter the NASA Speed News. Members will also receive a colorful membership hard card that will identify them as part of the organization and a welcome packet that includes more information on the many benefits and programs available to NASA members. While participating at events, all NASA members are covered by an extensive insurance policy, which includes General Liability, Accidental Death and Dismemberment, and Excess Medical coverage. Best of all, membership is only $45. Refer to www.nasaproracing.com for member information.
NASA Thanks Our Partners
NASA would like to thank its National sponsors for their continued support: Toyo Tires, Mazda, Hawk Performance, Winding Road Racing, and GoPro. We also want to thank MAZDASPEED, Honda Performance Development (HPD), Nissan, and Ford Motor Company for supporting our members. We greatly appreciate those companies that offer our racers contingency support, including Toyo Tires, AIM Sports, AST Suspension, BFGoodrich, Ford Racing, Maxxis Tires, Traqmate, Hawk Performance, Honda Performance Development (HPD), Hoosier Racing Tire, MAZDASPEED, Nissan, Jongbloed Racing Wheels, Bimmerworld, Frozen Rotors, Optic Armor, Neo Motorsports, Spec Clutches, Driven Racing Oil, Altronics Inc., ANZE Suspension, GT Radial Tire, Tilton, Racefab Inc., Sampson Racing Communications and Yokohama. NASA competitors can also get discounts from Mazda, Maxxis Tires, Racing Fire Systems, Ford Performance Racing School,Fuel Safe, Vehiport, APR Performance, Avis, Cruise America, Eibach Springs, Exedy, Fastbrakes, Konig, The Mid-Ohio School, Konig, Molecule, Red Line Oil, Winding Road Racing, Torco, TPIS, Porterfield and Monster Clutch.
NASA at a Glance
NASA was founded in 1991 on the premise of providing motorsport competition programs that allow owners of both racecars and high-performance street-driven vehicles to enjoy the full-performance capabilities of their cars in a safe and controlled environment.
NASA has over 14,000 members in 16 regions.
Key events include the NASA Western Championships at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, July 31 - Aug. 2; the Eastern Championships at Virginia International Raceway Sept. 4-6 and the season culminating NASA 25 Hours of Thunderhill, Dec. 5-6.
The NASA National Championships will run 36 race classes and nine Time-Trial classes during the event.
NASA runs over 150 events each year encompassing over 250 races, including the association's Rally Sport and Time-Trial program.
* Manufacturer partners include MAZDASPEED, Honda Performance Development (HPD), Nissan and Ford Racing.
* NASA Management: Jerry Kunzman, Executive Director; Ryan Flaherty, National Chairman; Jeremy Croiset, Director of Business Development; Dave Ho, Business Operations Manager, Will Faules, National Event Manager.
Follow NASA
Internet: nasaproracing.com
Facebook: National Auto Sport Association
Twitter: nasaproracing
Instagram: nasaproracing
2014 Survive the 25 from NASA 25 Hours of Thunderhill Presented by Hawk Performance
Published on August 25, 2015 00:23
'Survive the 25,' originally aired on the MavTV network, highlights the triumphs and struggles of four teams vying for victory at the 2014 NASA 25 hours of Thunderhill presented by Hawk Performance. This episode is presented by Mazda.Watch Video
2015 NASA Eastern States Championships presented by Toyo Tires Warming up with Fast Entries
Published on August 19, 2015 20:33
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"I originally signed up for Spec E46 race, renting a good car from one
of the class founders Jason Tower," Drennan said. "I wanted to meet the
other E46 drivers and, if I was fortunate enough to win the West, I want
to see if I can consolidate the National Championship. After winning
the Western States Champs in Spec Miata and Spec E46, I got a call about
an open transport spot for a car and decided to bring one of my Spec
Miata cars. The Spec Miata field in the East is deep with talent and I'm
always looking to challenge myself. I've been to VIR twice, once in
2013 in a Spec Miata and a few weeks ago for a NASA regional in the
rented Spec E46. I posted two wins that weekend. I expect James Clay and
Cameron Evans to be formidable in the BMW race. In Spec Miata, there's a
handful of super-fast drivers, but the top two are Danny Steyn and last
year's Eastern States Champ Alex Bolanos."
Brian Faessler and his team have built an all-new Mustang for 2015. The
No. 018 Ford Mustang running in the Super Unlimited Class will be one
to be reckoned with at the beginning of September at VIR.
win at Road Atlanta in 2014 in Spec Miata.
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2015 NASA Western States Championships Presented by Toyo Tires Highlights Videos
Published on August 13, 2015 21:26
The biggest race of the year for the West Coast Regions is in the books, and here are the highlights from the event. You will hear from racers on their quest to become a 2015 NASA Western States Champion, and why it is critical to get the most out of yourself, and your car, for the one race that matters the most - Sunday's final. We also have thrilling class recaps for Spec Miata and Honda Challenge aficionados, where door handles were becoming thoroughly acquainted. Share these videos with your friends and get in the mood for the NASA Eastern States Championships coming up Sept 3-6!2015 NASA Western States Championships Highlights
2015 NASA Western Championships Spec Miata Highlights
2015 NASA Western Championships HPD Honda Challenge Highlights
Winding Road Racing new Official Motorsports Equipment Supplier of NASA
Published on June 23, 2015 20:08
Napa Valley, CA – NASA is
thrilled to announce Winding Road Racing as the new Official Motorsports
Equipment Supplier of NASA. Winding Road Racing is one of the leaders in
motorsports equipment retail offering a wide range of driver safety gear,
performance components, set up tools, and racing lifestyle products online at www.windingroadracing.com and
trackside at many NASA events.
“We are proud to welcome Winding Road Racing into the NASA Family,” said Jeremy Croiset, NASA Director of Business Development. “Winding Road Racing has worked hard over the years to establish themselves as a dominant force in the area of Motorsports Equipment and it will be great to have them on board to offer meaningful new programs to the NASA membership that each can truly benefit from! WRR has a fantastic reputation for excellent customer service in our industry, which should serve our members well. Much of their insight into motorsports is due to the fact that they themselves are racers in our Texas, California and Great Lakes Regions. ”
"All of us at Winding Road Racing are proud to partner with NASA, which will allow us the opportunity to further connect with the racing community," said Thomas B. Martin II, owner and President of Winding Road Racing. "Through member benefits programs, including the Winding Road Racing contingency sponsorships, we can continue honoring the achievements of amateur racers, while supplying the gear racers need to go faster. We are excited to do so both online, in our retail store, and trackside at local and national NASA events."
“Our partnership with NASA reinforces our commitment to the amateur motorsports community”, said Maelstrom Kiewiet, Winding Road Racing’s Merchandising Director. “We couldn’t be happier to become the Official Motorsports Equipment Supplier to NASA and look forward to a long lasting relationship.”
Not only does Winding Road Racing offer all of the above, they also build race cars at their headquarters location in Austin, TX. Many of Winding Road Racing’s employees compete in both sprint and endurance races each year. Both car building and racing provide their staff with valuable first-hand expertise to assist customers. For more information on Winding Road Racing or to order Motorsports Equipment, please visit their website at: www.WindingRoadRacing.com or call (512) 994-0656.
About NASA
The National Auto Sport Association (NASA) was formed in 1991 with the premise of delivering high-quality motorsports events to enthusiasts at major racing venues throughout the nation. NASA has created programs that allow owners of both racecars and high-performance street-driven vehicles to enjoy the full performance capabilities of their cars in a controlled professionally managed environment. NASA offers many different programs that will allow you to enjoy motorsports on a number of different levels, including our High Performance Driving Events (HPDE), Rally Sport, Time Trial, NASA-X and Competition Racing programs.
About Winding Road Racing
Founded in 2013, Winding Road Racing's mission is to offer everything you need to go road racing. Through our trackside operations in the southwest, west and at national events, and our store and race car shop in Austin, TX, Winding Road Racing offers auto racing safety gear and tools, race car builds and services, and racing information and tips (at www.windingroad.com). For more information on Winding Road Racing and Winding Road Media, visit www.windingroadracing.com and www.windingroad.com.
2015 Ford Performance Contingency Program Announced with Big Cash Rewards
Published on June 17, 2015 21:13
NAPA VALLEY, CA – The National Auto Sport Association (NASA) is pleased to announce the Ford Performance Contingency Program for NASA competitors in 2015. The newly announced program will provide fantastic cash awards to NASA competitors competing both regionaly or at either NASA Championships event. The program provides awards to competitors in the American Iron Series, Spec Iron, Super Touring, Performance Touring, and Super Unlimited classes.
Spec Iron competitors are eligible for up to $1,000 in cash awards for regional top 3 finishes! Additionally, Spec Iron along with the other classes in the American Iron Series, Performance Touring, Super Touring, and Super Unlimited classes are eligible for $2,250 in cash awards for finishing in the top 3 of their respective Regional Championship. To sweeten the pot even further, Ford Performance will offer NASA competitors at either Championship event in these same classes the chance to collect $4,250 in additional cash awards!
“This new contingency program being offered by Ford Performance is extremely lucrative” said Jeremy Croiset, NASA's Director of Business Development. “This program shows that Ford means business and is really putting their best foot forward to support the NASA membership. I’m sure our Ford competitors will be most appreciative of the support from Ford Performance.”
The contingency program is available beginning immediately to all NASA competitors in these respective classes at each NASA regional and Championship event. For complete information on the contingency program, please visit http://www.nasaproracing.com/contingencies.
Survive the 25, the 2014 edition to air every Tues. in June on MavTV
Published on May 29, 2015 17:20
NASA’s 25 Hours of Thunderhill presented by Hawk Performance has become a staple of endurance racing, drawing top competitors and teams from all around the world. The changing weather, deep field of competitors and taxing track layout make the event especially exciting for teams, drivers and fans. Powers Wins Mazda Race of NASA Champions Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
Published on May 03, 2015 19:48
| Matt Powers, center, winner; right Corey Rueth second; left, Jeremy Croiset third. |
Rueth and Croiset round out the Grand Champion podium
MONTEREY, Calif. (May 3, 2015) - Matt Powers (San Rafael, Calif.) won today's running of the inaugural Mazda Race of NASA Champions at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Powers was crowned NASA Grand Champion. He was followed to the checkered flag by Corey Rueth (Manchaca, Texas) and Jeremy Croiset (Tehachapi, Calif.).
The 20 NASA Champions were a part of a three class grid consisting of 48 Mazda MX-5 race cars representing the Mazda MX-5 Cup, Skip Barber Mazda MX-5 Series and the NASA Champions. Pole sitter Corey Rueth brought the 20 NASA Champions to the start flag for the 45-minute timed race.
Rueth was the early leader as Matthew Powers, Jeremy Croiset, David Ziegler (Baltimore, Ohio) and Ben Anderson (Minneapolis, Minn.) followed in a five car Mazda MX-5 train. On lap five Powers passed Rueth for the overall NASA Champions lead. Powers continued to lead through the one-third distance of the race. The top three NASA drivers were running near identical 1:45 lap times. On lap 11 Chi Ho (Orlando, Fla.) spun in Turn 10 and hit the wall bringing out the races first and only caution period. On the restart on lap 16, Croiset was able to take over second position from Rueth. On lap 19, Croiset, running in a 10 car pack, was able to take the overall NASA Champions lead going into Turn One at the 37-minute mark. Croiset, Powers and Rueth were running nose-to-tail for the final 10-minutes of the event. On lap 22 Croiset got caught in traffic coming down from the Corkscrews and got relegated to third place as Rueth and Powers took advantage of Croiset's delay. On the final lap Powers managed to get by Rueth to take the NASA Grand Champion crown.
The win gives Powers an invite to the Mazda Club Racer Shootout in November. In addition to being the 2014 NASA NorCal, Western States Champion in his GTS4
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| Matt Powers |
Class BMW M3 he can also boast about being the first ever NASA Grand Champion.
"Great race," Powers exclaimed. "It was really simple for the first 30-minutes and then that yellow came out. It became a whole different race on the restart. I am just happy to have the car in one piece and at the front. It was a fantastic race. I really appreciate everyone from Mazda and NASA who put this great event together. There are some great drivers here. It was an awesome battle. I knew there was something going on with Jeremy and Corey. They were really battling. Jeremy tried to make a hero move and I was able to capitalize and take the win."
Rueth is the Eastern States Champion in his Spec Iron Mustang and finished second in the No. 27 Mazda MX-5.
"That was absolutely the best race of my life," Rueth said. "I've never had more fun in a car. I was having so much fun at the end of that race that I didn't care if I won. OK that is a lie. I had the best time. I want to thank Mazda, NASA, SCCA and Skip Barber Racing for a great event. The hospitality has been wonderful and it really showed me how a professional event is run. I am absolutely inspired. I am going to buy a Mazda when I get home. I was leading the race and Matt made a fantastic pass. He was racing like a true gentleman. So I fell in behind him and drafted a while. He got caught up in traffic in Turn 10, he went inside, I went outside trying to pull the hero move and I went into the dirt. I put the accelerator on the floor and prayed and drove it back on the track after Turn 10. I have to pass about 100 cars to get to back to Matt. I am happy to be on the podium today. Proud to be racing with these drivers and the NASA organization."
Third place finisher Jeremy Croiset is the 2014 NASA Western States Honda Challenge 2 Champion and is also the NASA Director of Sponsorship.
"It was really clean racing," Croiset said. "Some of the best and hardest racing I have done. I got a decent start and I let things play out running in the top three. After the full course caution it was mayhem, every man for himself. I had my radio slip out of the dash and it was at my feet. I ended up throwing it in the back and focusing on the race. The end of the race was fantastic. I tried to stay as clean as possible, there was great action between the top five cars. My hats off to the NASA racers, everyone did a great job all weekend."
Putting his sponsor hat on Croiset was happy with the cooperation of everyone and as well as the driving prowess on the track. "The action was more intense than anything I have ever done in my life. The racing was closer than I could have imagined. I can't say enough about Mazda, NASA, SCCA and BFGoodrich for putting this event together. This really showed that the cream of the crop in NASA rose to the top. I think we had one of the best races of the weekend, which is a testament to the NASA ladder program. I want to thank John Doonan from Mazda for his vision and support."
For more information contact Kyle Chura, NASA Media, kyle@kcapr.com, (248) 821-0468.
Mazda Race of NASA Champions Results:
- Matt Powers, San Rafael, Calif., 1:45.149 - Fast race lap time.
- Corey Rueth, Manchaca, Texas, 1:45.587
- Jeremy Croiset, Tehachapi, Calif., 1:45.782
- David Ziegler, Baltimore, Ohio, 1:45.814
- Tristan Littlehale, Saratoga, Calif., 1:1:47.465
- Michael McAleenan, Tacoma, Wash., 1:47.172
- Dan Williams, Scottsbluff, Neb., 1:47.768
- Edgar Cabrera, Queens, Ny., 1:47.022
- Dave Schotz, Chandler, Ariz., 1:47.104
- Paul Arnold, Franklin, Tenn., 1:46.784
- Tommy Lo, Sunnydale, Calif., 1:47.009
- Sandro Espinosa, Atlanta, Ga., 1:46.722
- Eric Powell, Orlando, Fla., 1:48.363
- Ricky Johnson, Queen Creek, Ariz., 1:48.096
- Jay Pellegrini, Covington, La., 1:48.915
- Ronald Nielsen, Gainesville, Ga., 1:51.429
- Chi Ho, Orlando, Fla., NASA Florida, 1:46.093
- Ben Anderson, Minneapolis, Minn., 1:45.545
- Larry Fraser, Novato,Calif., 1:47.131
- Craig Ames, Laguna Nigel, Calif., DNS
About NASA
The National Auto Sport Association (NASA) was formed in 1991 with the premise of delivering high-quality motorsports events to enthusiasts at major racing venues throughout the nation. NASA has created programs that allow owners of both racecars and high-performance street-driven vehicles to enjoy the full performance capabilities of their cars in a controlled professionally managed environment. NASA offers many different programs that will allow you to enjoy motorsports on a number of different levels, including our High Performance Driving Events (HPDE), Rally Sport, Time Trial, NASA-X and Competition Racing programs.
NASA Membership
NASA members are entitled to enter and participate in any NASA event across the country, and membership includes an array of benefits, including vendor discounts and a subscription to the organizations online newsletter the NASA Speed News. Members will also receive a colorful membership hard card that will identify them as part of the organization and a welcome packet that includes more information on the many benefits and programs available to NASA members. While participating at events, all NASA members are covered by an extensive insurance policy, which includes General Liability, Accidental Death and Dismemberment, and Excess Medical coverage. Best of all, membership is only $45. Refer to www.nasaproracing.com for member information.
NASA Thanks Our Partners
NASA would like to thank its National sponsors for their continued support: Toyo Tires, Mazda, Hawk Performance, OG Racing, Ford Performance Racing School, and GoPro. We also want to thank MAZDASPEED, Honda Performance Development (HPD), Nissan, and Ford Motor Company for supporting our members. We greatly appreciate those companies that offer our racers contingency support, including Toyo Tires, AIM Sports, AST Suspension, BFGoodrich, Ford Racing, Maxxis Tires, Traqmate, Hawk Performance, Honda Performance Development (HPD), Hoosier Racing Tire, MAZDASPEED, Nissan, Jongbloed Racing Wheels, Bimmerworld, Frozen Rotors, Optic Armor, Neo Motorsports, Spec Clutches, Driven Racing Oil, Altronics Inc., ANZE Suspension, GT Radial Tire, Tilton, Racefab Inc., Sampson Racing Communications and Yokohama. NASA competitors can also get discounts from Mazda, Maxxis Tires, Racing Fire Systems, Ford Performance Racing School, Fuel Safe, Vehiport, APR Performance, Avis, Cruise America, Eibach Springs, Exedy, Fastbrakes, Konig, The Mid-Ohio School, Konig, Molecule, OG Racing, Torco, TPIS, Porterfield and Monster Clutch.
NASA at a Glance
* NASA was founded in 1991 on the premise of providing motorsport competition programs that allow owners of both racecars and high-performance street-driven vehicles to enjoy the full-performance capabilities of their cars in a safe and controlled environment.
* NASA has over 14,000 members in 16 regions.
* Key events include the Mazda Race of NASA Champions May 3 at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca; NASA Western Championships at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, July 31 - Aug. 2; the Eastern Championships at Virginia International Raceway Sept. 4-6 and the season culminating NASA 25 Hours of Thunderhill, Dec. 5-6.
* The NASA National Championships will run 36 race classes and nine Time-Trial classes during the event.
* NASA runs over 150 events each year encompassing over 250 races, including the association's Rally Sport and Time-Trial program.
* Manufacturer partners include MAZDASPEED, Honda Performance Development (HPD), Nissan and Ford Racing.
* NASA Management: Jerry Kunzman, Executive Director; Ryan Flaherty, National Chairman; Jeremy Croiset, Director of Sponsorship; Dave Ho, Business Operations Manager, Will Faules, National Event Manager.
Follow NASA
Internet: nasaproracing.com
Facebook: National Auto Sport Association
Twitter: nasaproracing
Instagram: nasaproracing
Corey Rueth on Pole for Mazda Race of NASA Champions Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
Published on May 02, 2015 23:38
Corey Rueth on Pole for Mazda Race of NASA Champions Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
Ziegler and Powers round out top three qualifiers
MONTEREY, Calif. (May 1, 2015) - Corey Rueth (Manchaca, Texas) will start the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) first ever Mazda Race of NASA Champions at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca from the pole position for Sunday morning's 45-minute race.
The 20 NASA Champions took to the track in their equally prepared Mazda MX-5 Cup race cars for the 15-minute qualifying session this afternoon under sunny skies. The field of champions began to swap the pole position early. Larry Fraser (Novato, Calif.), Matthew Powers (San Rafael, Calif.) and Eric Powell (Orlando, Fla.) all throwing down early fast laps. As the session progressed Rueth put in a time of 1:45.619 on his third flying lap that, at the time, bested the field by over one second. The fans had to wait until late in the session when David Ziegler (Baltimore, Ohio) put in a time of 1:45.665 on his eighth lap to start next to Rueth on the all champions grid. Third place was a battle between Jeremy Croiset (Tehachapi, Calif.), Fraser and Powers. The coveted third place starting position was eventually won by Powers with a lap of 1:45.820.
Corey Rueth is the NASA Texas, Eastern States Champion in his Spec Iron Mustang. He will startSunday's race as the pole sitter in the No. 27 Mazda MX-5.
"So far it has been an amazing weekend," Rueth said. "NASA put it all together with the help of SCCA, Mazda, BFGoodrich and Battery Tender. The whole event has been run very smoothly. We have reviewed each other's video and data. We are working together as NASA brethren to get faster. I am proud to be a part of it. I typically drive a Spec Iron Mustang. The Mazda goes so nice I feel like I am in a warm bath. I managed to run a 1:45.619 and I just kept the car under me. The MX-5 seems to reward with you a 95% effort as opposed to trying to force it into the corners. For the race I plan to manage my tires and I am not going to make a move until I know I have an opportunity to go for the win."
Starting alongside Rueth will be David Ziegler. Ziegler will take the start in the No. 30 Mazda MX-5 and is the NASA Great Lakes, Eastern States Champion, driving a ST3 spec Chevrolet Corvette Z06.
"This whole experience has been pretty amazing," Ziegler said. "NASA, SCCA and Mazda have put together a great weekend. I usually drive a Corvette C5 so the Mazda MX-5 is a little different to drive. There is a little bit of a learning curve, but the car is balanced well and it is a real joy to race. I went out with the intention of going as fast I could. I kept the car on the track and put in a pretty good time. In the race I plan to be smooth and consistent and stay out of trouble."
Matt Powers is the NASA NorCal, Western States Champion in his GTS4 Class BMW M3. He will take the green in the No. 40 Mazda MX-5.
"My usual ride is a BMW M3," Powers said. "The Mazda MX-5 is quite a bit different. The power to weight ratio is almost double between the M3 and the MX-5. It is a great experience to drive the Mazda. So far the weekend is great. NASA and Mazda have put together a very cool weekend and I am glad to be a part of it. For the race, I think there are going to be some cautions. I want to move up a little bit and be close to the lead at the 35 to 40 minute mark. I am not sure it is going to be about tire management, but I know it is going to be a battle the whole race."
The 45-minute Mazda Race of NASA Champions will take the green flag Sunday, May 3 at 10 a.m. PT.
For more information contact Kyle Chura, NASA Media, kyle@kcapr.com, (248) 821-0468.
Mazda Race of NASA Champions Grid:
- Corey Rueth, Manchaca, Texas 1:45.619
- David Ziegler, Baltimore, Ohio, 1:45.665
- Matt Powers, San Rafael, Calif., 1:45.820
- Larry Fraser, Novato,Calif., 1:45.910
- Jeremy Croiset, Tehachapi, Calif., 1:45.981
- Ben Anderson, Minneapolis, Minn., 1:46.001
- Eric Powell, Orlando, Fla., 1:46.372
- Sandro Espinosa, Atlanta, Ga., 1:46.472
- Michael McAleenan, Tacoma, Wash., 1:46.526
- Chi Ho, Orlando, Fla., NASA Florida, 1:46.836
- Dave Schotz, Chandler, Ariz., 1:46.836
- Tommy Lo, Sunnydale, Calif., 1:46.849
- Dan Williams, Scottsbluff, Neb., 1:46.874
- Tristan Littlehale, Saratoga, Calif., 1:1:47.094
- Edgar Cabrera, Queens, Ny., 1:47.778
- Ricky Johnson, Queen Creek, Ariz., 1:48.629
- Paul Arnold, Franklin, Tenn., 1:48.634
- Craig Ames, Laguna Nigel, Calif., 1:49.061
- Jay Pellegrini, Covington, La., 1:51.429
- Ronald Nielsen, Gainesville, Ga., 1:52.339
About NASA
The National Auto Sport Association (NASA) was formed in 1991 with the premise of delivering high-quality motorsports events to enthusiasts at major racing venues throughout the nation. NASA has created programs that allow owners of both racecars and high-performance street-driven vehicles to enjoy the full performance capabilities of their cars in a controlled professionally managed environment. NASA offers many different programs that will allow you to enjoy motorsports on a number of different levels, including our High Performance Driving Events (HPDE), Rally Sport, Time Trial, NASA-X and Competition Racing programs.
NASA Membership
NASA members are entitled to enter and participate in any NASA event across the country, and membership includes an array of benefits, including vendor discounts and a subscription to the organizations online newsletter the NASA Speed News. Members will also receive a colorful membership hard card that will identify them as part of the organization and a welcome packet that includes more information on the many benefits and programs available to NASA members. While participating at events, all NASA members are covered by an extensive insurance policy, which includes General Liability, Accidental Death and Dismemberment, and Excess Medical coverage. Best of all, membership is only $45. Refer to www.nasaproracing.com for member information.
NASA Thanks Our Partners
NASA would like to thank its National sponsors for their continued support: Toyo Tires, Mazda, Hawk Performance, OG Racing, Ford Performance Racing School, and GoPro. We also want to thank MAZDASPEED, Honda Performance Development (HPD), Nissan, and Ford Motor Company for supporting our members. We greatly appreciate those companies that offer our racers contingency support, including Toyo Tires, AIM Sports, AST Suspension, BFGoodrich, Ford Racing, Maxxis Tires, Traqmate, Hawk Performance, Honda Performance Development (HPD), Hoosier Racing Tire, MAZDASPEED, Nissan, Jongbloed Racing Wheels, Bimmerworld, Frozen Rotors, Optic Armor, Neo Motorsports, Spec Clutches, Driven Racing Oil, Altronics Inc., ANZE Suspension, GT Radial Tire, Tilton, Racefab Inc., Sampson Racing Communications and Yokohama. NASA competitors can also get discounts from Mazda, Maxxis Tires, Racing Fire Systems, Ford Performance Racing School, Fuel Safe, Vehiport, APR Performance, Avis, Cruise America, Eibach Springs, Exedy, Fastbrakes, Konig, The Mid-Ohio School, Konig, Molecule, OG Racing, Torco, TPIS, Porterfield and Monster Clutch.
NASA at a Glance
* NASA was founded in 1991 on the premise of providing motorsport competition programs that allow owners of both racecars and high-performance street-driven vehicles to enjoy the full-performance capabilities of their cars in a safe and controlled environment.
* NASA has over 14,000 members in 16 regions.
* Key events include the Mazda Race of NASA Champions May 3 at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca; NASA Western Championships at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, July 31 - Aug. 2; the Eastern Championships at Virginia International Raceway Sept. 4-6 and the season culminating NASA 25 Hours of Thunderhill, Dec. 5-6.
* The NASA National Championships will run 36 race classes and nine Time-Trial classes during the event.
* NASA runs over 150 events each year encompassing over 250 races, including the association's Rally Sport and Time-Trial program.
* Manufacturer partners include MAZDASPEED, Honda Performance Development (HPD), Nissan and Ford Racing.
* NASA Management: Jerry Kunzman, Executive Director; Ryan Flaherty, National Chairman; Jeremy Croiset, Director of Sponsorship; Dave Ho, Business Operations Manager, Will Faules, National Event Manager.
Follow NASA
Internet: nasaproracing.com
Facebook: National Auto Sport Association
Twitter: nasaproracing
Instagram: nasaproracing
Michael Gershanok Announced as the New GTS National Series Leader
Published on April 28, 2015 17:41
NAPA VALLEY, CA – The National Auto Sport Association (NASA) is pleased to announce Michael Gershanok as the new GTS National Series Leader. Michael has been with NASA since the inception of the North East Region in 2000 as its German Touring Series Leader.
Michael’s philosophy from the beginning for the GTS series has been to preserve its core principles of being open, simple and fair. Over that last several years, he has successfully steered the GTS Series in the North East Region Growing the fields to a consistent 25 – 30 cars at each event. Michael has also been a NASA instructor since 2002, and a five-time North East Regional Champion in GTS.
Away from NASA events, Michael is a double-degreed dentist (MD/DDS) and runs two full time practices, one in New York City and the other in a northern suburb, just to keep life interesting and busy. In his private life he is blessed sharing his life with his wife Lila and 9 year old daughter Marta.
NASA’s new Technical Director of Competition, Bryan Cohn stated, ‘Michael has proven to be a very qualified and experienced candidate, who possess a passion for the series. We are very much looking forward to having Michael contribute to the GTS Series on a national scale, and have no doubt the series is in good hands.’
Mazda Race of NASA Champions has Full Grid
Published on April 27, 2015 16:52
Mazda Race of NASA Champions has Full Grid
Grand Champion to be crowned May 3 at Mazda Raceway
Napa Valley, CA — The National Auto
Sport Association (NASA) together with Mazda will line-up 20 championship-winning
drivers from the 2014 season to race in the inaugural Mazda Race of NASA
Champions. This historic event will take place during the TUDOR United
SportsCar Championship Continental Tire Monterey Grand Prix powered by Mazda at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca weekend, May 1-3.
The 20 NASA Champion drivers represent 13 states, from nearly all NASA regions across the country. Each racer will compete in identically prepared Skip Barber MAZDASPEED Pro Challenge Mazda MX-5s to vie for the title of NASA Grand Champion.
The Grand Champion will be eligible to compete in the Mazda Club Racer Shootout for a $100,000 scholarship to be used to fund a full season of racing in the SCCA Pro Racing Battery Tender Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by BFGoodrich Tires racing series.
“This program speaks volumes to the importance Mazda places on grassroots motorsports as they are truly devoted to finding the best driver in NASA to represent the association in the annual Mazda Club Racer Shootout later this year,” said Ryan Flaherty, NASA National Chairman. “Both of our companies share a common vision for offering new opportunities to grass roots racers and this program could help identify the next great driver in our sport. We can’t wait to see the action in two weeks at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca."
“Over the past few years NASA competitors have been extremely impressive at our annual Club Racing Shootout,” said John Doonan, director of motorsports, Mazda North American Operations. “We expect the NASA champions to have a great battle in the identical MX-5 cars.”
Mazda Race of NASA Champions entry:
— Craig Ames, NASA SoCal, Western States Champion, ST1
— Ben Anderson, NASA Central, Eastern States Champion, PTE
— Paul Arnold, NASA Southeast, Eastern States Champion, FFR Challenge
— Edgar Cabrera, NASA Northeast, Regional Champion, Eastern States Champion, GTS3
— Jeremy Croiset, NASA SoCal, Western States Champion, Honda Challenge 2
— Sandro Espinosa, NASA Southeast, Regional Champion, Eastern States Champion, Spec E30
— Larry Fraser, NASA NorCal, Western States Champion, Spec E30
— Chi Ho, NASA Florida, Regional Champion, TTB, Eastern States Champion, TTC
— Tristan Littlehale, NASA NorCal, Western States Champion, GTS2
— Michael McAleenan, NASA NorCal, Western States Champion, ST3
— Ricky Johnson, NASA Arizona, Regional Champion, Western States Champion, PTB
— Tommy Lo, NASA NorCal, Western States Champion, TTE
— Ronald Nielsen, NASA Southeast, Regional Champion, Eastern States Champion, PTF
— Jay Pellegrini, NASA NOLA, Regional Champion, Eastern States Champion, Spec Z
— Eric Powell, NASA Florida, Regional Champion, Western States Champion, PTD, TTD
— Matt Powers, NASA NorCal, Western States Champion, GTS4
— Cory Rueth, NASA Texas, Regional Champion, Eastern States Champion, Spec Iron
— Dave Schotz, NASA Arizona, Regional Champion, Eastern States Champion, PTB, Western States Champion, TTC
— Dan Williams, NASA Rocky Mountain, Eastern States Champion, 944 Spec
— David Ziegler, NASA Great Lakes, Eastern States Champion, ST3
NASA Championships Awarded Grassroots Motorsports Editors' Choice Award for 2015
Published on April 03, 2015 19:10
Napa Valley, CA – The National Auto Sport Association (NASA)
has been awarded a Grassroots Motosports Magazine Editors’ Choice Award for
2015. NASA’s decision to offer two Championships events in 2014 instead of one
was deemed one of the top 20 things which made the motorsports scene a better
place in 2014.
Grassroots Motorsport Magazine agreed that splitting the NASA Championships Presented by Toyo Tires into the Western and Eastern States Championships significantly lessened the tow, time, energy, and ultimately the expense needed to compete at the highest level of amateur road racing in the US. This has provided many more competitors the opportunity to taste national-level competition for the first time, while matching the grid sizes of NASA Championship events of the past.
“It was very rewarding to see Grassroots Motorsports Magazine select our NASA Championships events as an Editors’ Choice for 2015 after successfully deliver on our promise last year,” reflects Jeremy Croiset, NASA’s Director of Business Development. “That promise; to make national-caliber competition available to a wider array of NASA members, all whilst reducing the cost of the overall experience. We’re looking forward to seeing the Championships grow this year at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca and Virginia International Raceway now that people have seen that this recipe works. This also provided us the perfect opportunity to match up the best of the best from our Champions in our Mazda Race of NASA Champions which is scheduled for later this month during the Continental Tires Monterey Grand Prix Powered by Mazda at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.”
MAXXIS to Offer New HPDE Discount
Published on March 25, 2015 14:19
Napa Valley, CA - NASA is pleased to announce a generous new HPDE entry discount program available to all participants. Beginning immediately, anyone that purchases a set of MAXXIS RC-1 tires will be eligible to receive a $50 discount coupon. This coupon will be good toward any HPDE entry in any NASA region. Thanks to Maxxis and their generous support of the community, any HPDE participant can now save $50 on their event weekend along with their purchase of a new set of RC-1 tires. For complete details regarding the offer, please visit http://www.maxxisrc1.com/content/track-day-rebate.
Scott Good to Step Down as GTS National Series Leader
Published on March 20, 2015 19:51
Napa Valley, CA. – The National Auto Sport Association (NASA) is announcing that Scott Good will be stepping down as GTS National Series Leader. Good, the 2008 and 2010 GTS2 National Champion, took over the role of GTS National Series Leader in 2012 and has served the series well, seeing it through tremendous growth and most recently, new rules that will level the playing field within each class of the series.
Scott will now focus his efforts on building what he explains as a tracked-based executive leadership development program that builds on the concepts developed in his latest book, ‘DRIVING LEADERS: Lessons in high-performance leadership drawn from endurance racing.’
With Scott’s retirement comes an opportunity for NASA to implement a new process created for recruiting National Series Leaders. Interested persons can now submit their resume for the position after review of the National Series Leader Outline. In the past, drivers have been hand picked for these roles. While that has worked well, NASA’s steady growth and current size requires that we explore a new process that will open this opportunity up to more people than ever before.
If you are interested in applying for the GTS National Series Leader position or being considered for any other series in the future, you can learn more about the requirements of this position and how to apply by following this link: https://www.nasaproracing.com/rules/NSLR.pdf
Contact:
Bryan Cohn
Technical Director of Competition
NASA Pro Racing
(417) 540 - 2595
Mazda Race of NASA Champions to be Held at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
Published on March 17, 2015 20:52
Napa Valley, CA – The National Auto Sport Association (NASA) and Mazda Motorsport are pleased to announce that the 2015 Mazda Race of NASA Champions is scheduled to take place the weekend of May 1st at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca during the IMSA TUDOR United SportsCar Championship weekend. Registration is now open for any competition license holding 2014 NASA Champion. This event will provide each 2014 NASA Champion the opportunity to pit themselves against each other in identically prepared Mazda MX-5s in a winner take all format that will decide the inaugural NASA Grand Champion.
“We’re thrilled we’ve been successful in working with our great partner Mazda to bring this brand new event and opportunity to the NASA community,” said Ryan Flaherty, NASA National Chairman. “It took a tremendous amount of work involving a number of other partners to put this amazing opportunity together for our Champions to compete against one another in a single event competition weekend to find out who really is the best of the best! This program speaks volumes to the importance Mazda places in motorsports as they are truly devoted to finding the best driver in NASA to include in their annual Mazda Club Racer Shootout later this year. Both of our companies share a common vision for offering new opportunities in motorsports and this program could help identify the next great driver in our sport. We can’t wait to see the action in May at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca."
“This is an unprecedented opportunity for all of us involved. I expect we will see one of the great races unfold before our eyes at one of the most prolific race tracks in the world. The opportunity to grow the talent in the Mazda Club Racer Shootout, building on the Mazda Sports Car Racing Academy, is of great interest. To have this event during the weekend when our prototype team, the Mazda Continental Tire Street Tuner teams, and the Battery Tender Mazda MX-5 Cup Presented by BFGoodrich Tires competes, along with showcasing the 2016 MX-5 Cup development car, will make for one exciting weekend. The opportunity to make a name for oneself has never been better,” said John Doonan, director of Mazda Motorsports.
To register for the Mazda Race of NASA Champions or to see full details regarding the event including entry fees, event format, and event rules, please visit https://www.nasaproracing.com/events/2053.
Bryan Cohn Announced as the New Technical Director of Competition
Published on March 11, 2015 15:59
Napa Valley, CA – The National Auto Sport Association is pleased to announce Bryan Cohn as its new Technical Director of Competition. Bryan has been involved in virtually every position required within motorsports since 1983 and the wealth of knowledge and experience he brings to the table will be crucial as he takes on his new role within NASA. Mr. Cohn will help guide the development of class rules, manage series leaders, and ensure the rule revision process happens as quickly as possible.
“We are thrilled to have Bryan return to such a pivotal position within NASA after helping to spearhead the challenge of implementing the first NASA Championship event back in early 2006”, said Jeremy Croiset, NASA’s Director of Business Development. “Bryan should prove a valuable addition to the NASA team as our program continues to grow and expand.”
"I am really excited to rejoin the NASA team,” said Cohn. “When I made the move back in 2006, little did I know it was going to be a life changing opportunity. I look forward to serving NASA drivers again and enjoying motorsports with all the membership."
NASA Announces Spec E46 as a New National Class
Published on March 07, 2015 00:26
Napa Valley, CA – NASA is excited to announce the arrival of Spec E46 as a NASA sanctioned class for 2015. Competitors will now be eligible to compete in the Spec E46 class in all regions.
We’re pleased to announce Jason Tower as the National Series Director and Evan Levine as the Assistant National Series Director.
Spec E46 is designed with BMW enthusiasts in mind, looking for a newer platform with which to start, focusing on affordability and still maximizing the fun per dollar spent factor. With over 50 SE46 cars already built or underway, NASA expects a great turnout in SE46 fields in 2015 and beyond.
SE46 National Director Jason Tower states, “We are thrilled to see Spec E46 taking off as quickly as it is and are looking forward to many years of competitive spec racing. We've worked with racers, shops, and vendors to develop a ruleset utilizing components that yield a fun, fast, durable, and economical racing platform. Tightly regulated engines and a sealed spec ECU tune keep horsepower variance to a minimum, while high quality suspension parts and driveline components ensure that all of that power is put to good use. With donor cars available starting under $2500 it opens the door to close, exciting racing for beginning and experienced drivers alike" continues Tower.
Jason Tower began racing with NASA Spec E30 in 2010 in the highly competitive Mid Atlantic and Southeast regions. He is an accomplished and seasoned racer with a passion for the Spec E46 class. He lives with his wonderfully supportive wife and two dogs in Raleigh, NC where he works as a Linux systems administrator.
With the Assistant National Series Director Evan Levine also having contributed to the conception of the series, SE46 should have all the ingredients needed to flourish. With the passionate and motivated leaders we have in Jason and Evan, the series is perfectly positioned to realize its full potential.
NASA Divisional Director Will Faules believes there is a lot to be gained from introducing this new series to all NASA regions, and will in short time become a solid addition to our NASA competition program. “As a former SpecE30 racer myself, I’m glad to see the next step in spec racing with the E30 chassis becoming harder and harder to find as cheap as they once were,” Faules said. “Having an affordable, fast, fun, reliable car is what this series is all about and I’m confident it will prove to be a great class for years to come.”
