Monday, April 11, 2011

Motorsport “Greats” To Compete In 2011 “Legends of Motorsports” Events in Mouth-Watering United Autosports Machinery

·       Blundell, Cheever, Johansson & Luyendyk to race in Bobby Rahal signature events  


INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Some of the most prominent names in motorsport, from the world of open-wheel and sports car racing, will compete in Legends of Motorsports events this year. Ex-Formula One Grand Prix drivers Mark Blundell (GB), Eddie Cheever (USA) and Stefan Johansson (SE) plus two-time Indianapolis 500 race winner Arie Luyendyk (NED) will contest selected Bobby Rahal signature events during the year.

United Autosports will provide a stunning “stable” of machinery for former 24 Hours of Le Mans race winners Blundell and Johansson plus Indy 500 race victors Cheever and Luyendyk. Blundell, Cheever and Johansson raced for the Anglo-American team in Europe last year, an association they and Luyendyk continue in the 24 Hours of Spa (BEL) alongside United Autosports Chairman & Co-Owner Zak Brown.

They will showcase their incredible talent and vast experience behind the wheel of such legendary racecars as the 1969 Lola T163 (Can Am), 1979 McLaren M28 (F1), 1992 Benetton B191 (F1), 1991 Penske PC20 (IndyCar) and the Porsche 962 among others in the three-event series staged at the Barber Motorsports Park (USA) on May 20-22, Mont-Tremblant (Can) on July 8-10 and the Sebring Raceway (USA) on December 2-4.

United Autosports’ recently refurbished ex-Michael Schumacher 1992 Benetton B191

The ultra-experienced quartet having made their names in the uppermost echelons of racing boasting over 300 Formula One starts, six Indy 500 wins, five IndyCar Championships and numerous open-wheel and sports car victories, join three-time IndyCar Champion and Indianapolis 500 race winner Rahal and other “historic” racing participants at these venues along with Just Marketing Inc.’s Founder & CEO, Zak Brown, who is co-owner of the Legends of Motorsports program with Rahal.

“The drivers joining us at the Legends of Motorsports events are some of the best drivers to have competed in open-wheel racing,” confirmed 1986 Indy 500 race winner Rahal. “The Legends of Motorsports events are the only place you will see drivers of this caliber go wheel-to-wheel racing in cars such as the Penske PC 20 IndyCar and the Benetton B191B Formula 1 car.  It is going to be fantastic.”

A full calendar of events will await historic racing fans during the participating weekends including Legends Autograph Sessions, Fan Forums, free paddock access where fans can see these historic cars and racing legends up close and non-stop racing activity.  Tickets and event information are available at www.legendsofmotorsports.com

Porsche 962 (IMSA)

About Legends of Motorsports
Legends of Motorsports is a premium race series owned by Historic Motorsports Productions LLC (‘HMP’). Specifically, Legends of Motorsports is an annual series of premium historic racing events and related lifestyle experiences staged at historic North American venues. Based in Zionsville, Indiana, HMP’s principal owners are racers and businessmen Bobby Rahal, Peter Stoneberg and Zak Brown. Additional equity investors in HMP include Spire Capital Partners and Just Marketing International, which provides comprehensive strategy, marketing, public relations, and event logistics services to the venue. 

United Autosports
Created in 2009, United Autosports is co-owned by American Zak Brown and Briton Richard Dean, both successful entrepreneurs and international race car drivers. The unique Anglo-American racing team fields GT3 class Audi R8 LMS sports cars from its United Kingdom headquarters in Leeds. It also races a fleet of “Legends of Motorsports” historic racing cars from its US facility in Indianapolis, Indiana. In 2011, the team competes in full-seasons of FIA GT3 European Championship, Avon Tyres British GT Championship and the “Legends of Motorsports” series. It will additionally contest selected GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series events, the 24 Hours of Spa (Belgium) and Macau GT Cup race (China).

Legends of Motorsports Co-Owner Zak Brown (seated in ex-John Watson Formula One 1979 McLaren M28) with Stefan Johansson

For further information concerning Legends of Motorsports, please contact:
Jana Watt
Legends of Motorsports, Public Relations
T +1 317 344 1998

Follow Legends of Motorsports

For further information concerning United Autosports, please contact:
Martyn Pass
Audi UK Sport Press
T +44 1564 824600
M +44 7801 859502
Skype martyn.pass

www.unitedautosports.com

“Flying Dutchman” Luyendyk Completes United Autosports’ “Stellar” 24 Hours of Spa Line-Up

·       Former two-time Indy 500 race winner will achieve Spa race début in July
·       Driver “combos” set for Anglo-American team’s three-car Audi R8 LMS entry


Double Indianapolis 500 race winner Arie Luyendyk contests his first serious race in almost 10 years when the “Flying Dutchman” drives for United Autosports in the Total 24 Hours of Spa (July 30-31).

Somewhat surprisingly considering that Arie was born 150-miles from the majestic Spa-Francorchamps circuit, Luyendyk will be racing at the Belgian venue for the first time. He visited the 4.35-mile track last month (March 29) when he tested the GT3 class Audi for the Anglo-American team currently at Paul Ricard (France) for 2011 FIA GT3 European Championship Media Days.

1990 & ’97 Indy 500 race winner Luyendyk, who raced for 10 years in Europe before moving permanently to America where he remains today, tested at Spa along with Matt Bell (GB), Richard Meins (GB) and Henri Richard (F) while Johnny Herbert (GB) also joined the action having flown in from the Australian Grand Prix where the Briton was present in the role of an FIA Steward at the season-opening Formula One race.   

Luyendyk enjoyed a distinguished racing career. His last “proper” race was the Indy 500 in 2002 and last raced in Europe in the 1989 Le Mans 24 Hours. Arie has “competed” at the Goodwood Festival of Speed (GB) in 2005 & ‘08 and contested the Mille Miglia last year. He competed in 17 "500's", leading eight of them, and set the single- and four-lap average (236.986mph) qualifying records in 1996.

United Autosports’ first-ever three-car race line-up will be:

Audi R8 LMS – Entry 1:
Alain Li (F); Arie Luyendyk (NL); Richard Meins (GB); Henri Richard (F)

Audi R8 LMS – Entry 2:
Zak Brown (USA); Richard Dean (GB); Johnny Herbert (GB); Stefan Johansson (SE)

Audi R8 LMS – Entry 3:
Matt Bell (GB); Mark Blundell (GB); Eddie Cheever (USA); Mark Patterson (USA)

Arie Luyendyk (pictured) was at the magnificent Spa-Francorchamps circuit for the first time in career last week driving the United Autosports Audi R8 LMS

Arie Luyendyk (NL). Age: 57. Born: Sommelsdijk, The Netherlands. Lives: Fountain Hills, AZ, USA:
Spa 24Hr: Début. Spa History: Début. Other 24Hr races: Daytona (1986/2nd, 1988/89/91/97 (all DNFs), 1998/1st, 1999/8th; Le Mans (1989/DNF).

"I’m excited about driving in the same team with the likes of Eddie [Cheever], Johnny [Herbert], Mark [Blundell] and Stefan [Johansson] – they’re a great bunch of guys and we all go back a long way – it’ll be so much fun. The Audi is a very sexy looking car and the guys had told me it was a blast to drive which I found out for myself last month.

“I like 24 Hour races and have always enjoyed doing them. It’s about getting into a rhythm, a flow, so I’m looking forward to that again and the fact that I get to drive at Spa which was a very important factor in my decision. I have never raced at Spa – in fact I’d never been to the track before last month’s test – and I always thought that something was missing in my racing career.

“From what I’d seen many times on television and of course what I’d been told, actually getting out on the circuit just confirmed that the place is simply awesome. One session of eight laps would have been worth it to me in flying from the USA! The track has everything, it’s just tremendous, probably one of the greatest if not the greatest track I have driven. The team is very professional and a top notch operation. I love the Audi R8 LMS but still have to get used to the electronic gizmos such as ABS braking and traction control.

“My father, Jaap, raced an Alfa Romeo 1300 at Spa in 1965 but I didn’t go with him, I was too young and in school. He suffered a huge accident, crashing off the road and hit a tree head on – which ended up next to him in the car! He was lucky to survive but broke both knees.”

Zak Brown (USA). Chairman & Co-Owner of United Autosports:
“I’ve of course known of Arie for a long time . . . I watched him race many, many times in Champ Car and the Indy Racing League . . . and was at both of his Indy 500 wins. The guy was truly incredible around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. It will therefore be a privilege to welcome Arie in to the United Autosports team which allows him to fulfill his dream of racing at Spa.”

Richard Dean (GB), Managing Director & Co-Owner of United Autosports:
“Arie is a legend! A couple of years ago, I watched him on stage being honored for his two Indy 500 wins and it was only then I realized the depth of what he has achieved in also winning the Daytona 24 and Sebring 12 Hour sports car races. It will be great to have his experience within our ranks and also adds another interesting element for the race fans and a rare opportunity to see the Dutchman race in Europe. I am sure we will see plenty of Orange shirts at Spa in support of him!”

United Autosports
Created in 2009, United Autosports is co-owned by American Zak Brown and Briton Richard Dean, both successful entrepreneurs and international race car drivers. The unique Anglo-American racing team fields GT3 class Audi R8 LMS sports cars from its United Kingdom headquarters in Leeds. It also races a fleet of “Legends of Motorsports” historic racing cars from its US facility in Indianapolis, Indiana. In 2011, the team competes in full-seasons of FIA GT3 European Championship, Avon Tyres British GT Championship and the “Legends of Motorsports” series. It will additionally contest selected GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series events, the 24 Hours of Spa (Belgium) and Macau GT Cup race (China).

Audi R8 LMS
V10 5.2-liter engine, 4 valves per cylinder, petrol direct injection, 523 PS, emission control by two racing catalytic converters, rear-wheel-drive, traction control (ASR), sequential pneumatic activated 6-speed sport gearbox with shift-paddles, Audi Space Frame (ASF) made of aluminum with bolted steel roll-cage, carbon-fiber composite/aluminum bodywork, Dunlop (for FIA & Spa 24Hr) and Avon (for BGT) radial tires. Start weight TBA. Limitation at 8500rpm for every gear. Developed by Audi Sport with cooperation from quattro GmbH. Won seven championships across Europe in 2009-2010 plus Spa 24 Hours class victory in début 2009 season and Nürburgring 24 Hours class victories in 2009-2010 and scoring a total 64 victories.

* Comprehensive Luyendyk biography plus team & car profiles are available on the United Autosports website http://www.unitedautosports.com/

* Arie Luyendyk photographs from Spa test can be downloaded at www.flickr.com/unitedautosports/sets

For further information, please contact:

Martyn Pass
Audi UK Sport Press
T +44 1564 824600
M +44 7801 859502
Skype martyn.pass

www.audi-press.co.uk

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Formula One & Le Mans Winner Johnny Herbert To Race For United Autosports At 24 Hours Of Spa

  • Ex-British Grand Prix winner Herbert, Matt Bell, Richard Meins & Henri Richard to make Spa 24 Hour race débuts
  • 1991 Le Mans race winner Herbert reacquainted with Audi marque

Johnny Herbert (GB) makes his début in the Total 24 Hours of Spa this summer (July 30-31) when the three-time Formula One Grand Prix winner races a United Autosports Audi R8 LMS sports car for the first time.

The immensely popular Englishman joins previously announced fellow former Le Mans 24 Hour race winners and GP drivers Mark Blundell (GB) and Stefan Johansson (Sweden) plus Indy 500 race victor Eddie Cheever (USA) in the Anglo-American team’s bid for glory in the Belgian “classic”.

Having had his last 24 hour race was in Dubai two years ago, Herbert already sampled the GT3 class Audi at Snetterton (England) earlier this month. Johnny raced an Audi R8 sports-prototype for the “factory” Audi Sport and “customer” Champion Racing (USA) and Audi Sport UK Team Veloqx (GB) teams between 2001-04.

Herbert, who won the 1991 24 Hours of Le Mans plus three Grands Prix during an 11-year F1 career with spells at Benetton, Jaguar, Ligier, Lotus, Sauber and Stewart, is joined by Matt Bell (GB), Richard Meins (GB) and Henri Richard (France) in United Autosports’ 12-driver, three-car Spa squad. They are all scheduled to test at the famous Belgian venue later this month (March 29).

Johnny Herbert tested the United Autosports Audi R8 LMS at Snetterton (England) earlier this month
Bell raced for United Autosports in the FIA GT3 European Championship last year and continues in the FIA series as well as the British GT Championship this year. Meanwhile Richard and Meins competed for United Autosports in the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup (Zhuhai, China) last November, California-based Henri Richard recording third place in the GTC category while Hong Kong-based Richard Meins ended up unclassified after his Audi had led much of the 1,000km race. Meins also drove in the GT Cup race at Macau.

The identity of the 12th and final driver which Zak Brown, Chairman & Co-Owner of United Autosports, promises will be another “legend” plus car combinations will be finalized early next month (April) for Britain’s only “official” Audi Sport customer team racing at Spa which is the third round of the Blancpain Endurance Series.

Brown was at the 12 Hours of Sebring (Florida, USA) last Saturday (March 19) to monitor the progress of BGT driver Michael Guasch (1st LMPC) and Spa race recruits Alain Li (2nd GTC) and Henri Richard (7th LMPC). Johansson was also an interested spectator. Zak, Founder & CEO of JMI (Just Marketing International), the global leader in motorsports marketing, received the distinguished honor of induction into Street and Smith’s SportsBusiness Journal Forty Under 40 Hall of Fame earlier this week, having been named for the third time as a recipient of the prestigious award.

Last year’s corresponding Spa race was United Autosports’ maiden twice-around-the-clock event in which they achieved praiseworthy third and fourth places in the GT3 classification to record the highest-placed finishing positions for Audi with its two-car entry.

This year’s Spa event will mark the team’s third 24 hour race. Blundell, Brown, Martin Brundle (GB) and Mark Patterson (USA) achieved a magnificent fourth place finish in the 49th Rolex 24 At Daytona (January 30).


Matthew Bell (GB). Age: 21. Lives: Barningham nr Richmond, North Yorkshire, England:
Spa 24Hr: Début. Spa History: Spa début October 2009 (Ginetta G20). Last race at Spa: October 2009, Ginetta races (5th, 7th, 3rd) . Other 24Hr races: None.

“I am really looking forward to my first 24 hour race. It’s going to be a challenge; modern 24 hour races are effectively long sprint races due to the reliability of the cars nowadays, so you have to push yourself as a driver and make sure you're on the limit every lap, day and night, for up to 2 and a half, sometimes 3 hours at a time for each stint. I'm very excited about racing at Spa. It’s my favorite circuit and the 24hrs is a fantastic event. I was involved behind the scenes with United Autosports’ first attempt at the Spa 24hrs last year.”


Johnny Herbert (GB). Age: 46. Born: Brentwood, Essex, England. Lives: Dorsington nr Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, England:
Spa 24Hr: Début. Spa History: Début September 13 1986 (F3/8th). F1 (1989, 1991/7th, 1992/13th ret, 1993/5th, 1994/12th, 1995/7th, 1996, 1997/4th, 1998/10th, 1999/11th, 2000/8th), F3 (1986/87). Last race at Spa: September 12 2004 (LMS/1st). Other 24Hr races: Le Mans (1990, 1991/1st, 1992/4th, 2001, 2002/2nd, 2003/2nd, 2004/2nd, 2007/9th). Dubai 24 Hours 2009 (45th/ 8th).

“To get the opportunity to do a 24 hour race again is wonderful and especially as it’s at Spa which has always been one of my favorite race tracks. I’ve never competed in the Spa 24 Hours so I’m really looking forward to that aspect as well as competing for United Autosports for the first time and reacquainting myself with Audi. I raced an Audi sports-prototype for a number of years. I attended last year’s race for TV and it was good to see my old F1 buddies Mark, Stefan and Eddie all driving again. They did brilliantly well and it’s an absolute privilege for me now to be involved and joining up with these guys. On my first test for United Autosports at Snetterton, I sampled the team’s Audi R8 LMS for the very first time and it was just like driving and sitting in my favorite armchair – so smooth and easy to drive and with such nice power delivery. I’m very much looking forward to Spa.”


Richard Meins (GB). Age: 56. Born: Beckenham, Kent, England. Lives: Stanley, Hong Kong:
Spa 24Hr: Début. Spa History: Début 1999 (National Saloons). 2006 1st & 3rd Grand Prix Masters (Surtees TS19), 2006 2nd World Sportscar Masters (Lola T70), 2nd (Ford GT40), 2007 4th Grand Prix Masters (McLaren M23), 2008 2nd Masters Sportscars (Lola T70), 5th Historic Motor Racing News U2TC (Mini Cooper). Last race at Spa: September 24-26 2010, 3rd Spa 6Hrs Endurance (Ford GT40). Other 24Hr races: Nürburgring (2004/5/6). BritCar (Silverstone, GB).

“I am delighted to be racing for United Autosports again and aiming for a good result at Spa after my Zhuhai and Macau disappointments. I know the Audi R8 LMS is up to the job and the team now have an established track record, especially after their strong performance at Spa last year. All the elements are there for success. The Spa 24 Hours is one of Europe's great races and one I have very much wanted to add to my racing C.V. and to have the opportunity to drive for United Autosports again partnered with drivers of such a high caliber in a seriously competitive car as the Audi R8 LMS means it will be a very special experience.”


Henri Richard (F). Age: 52. Born: Paris, France. Lives: Los Altos Hills, California, USA:
Spa 24Hr: Début. Spa History: None. Spa début 2011 Spa 24 Hours. Last race at Spa: None. Other 24Hr races: Daytona 24 Hours (2010, 2011).

"After a successful maiden race at Zhuhai last November, I cannot wait to get back in to the Audi R8 LMS with United Autosports. To do it on the unique Spa Francorchamps race track is a dream. The Audi and the team have proven already that they are solid contenders to win this race and I am looking forward to helping United Autosports take the top spot on the podium this year. I have never raced at Spa and approach this track with much respect and anticipation.”


Zak Brown (USA). Chairman & Co-Owner of United Autosports:

“Johnny [Herbert] needs absolutely no introduction to race fans, especially those in Europe where he remains unbelievably popular. He joins fellow Grand Prix greats Mark Blundell, Eddie Cheever and Stefan Johansson in our Spa team bristling with experience. Henri [Richard] and Richard [Meins] return to our team after outings with us in the Far East last November and like Johnny, are excited about making their Spa 24 race débuts in potentially a race-winning car. Meanwhile Matt [Bell] will make his 24 hour race début with us. Richard [Dean] and I are very excited about Matt’s potential and we’re certain that he’ll rise to the challenge the Spa race offers.”


Richard Dean (GB), Managing Director & Co-Owner of United Autosports:

“I have known Johnny [Herbert] since we were 13 and racing karts together – I didn’t get the chance to beat him too often – just the once I recall over a 6 year period! So the opportunity to have him on our side rather than racing against us is a massive relief. If you talk to anybody who has worked with Johnny, or raced in the same team as him, they will tell you he is probably the most naturally talented driver they have ever seen. Adding a British former GP winner to the United Autosports Spa driver line-up underlines our serious desire to improve on our 2010 performance at Spa.

“I am delighted to welcome back Richard [Meins] and Henri [Richard] in to our team. They drove together for United Autosports in the Zhuhai Intercontinental Le Mans Cup last November and were immediately on the pace and worked well with the team. They both have 24 hour race experience and so add strength to our line-up.

“Matt [Bell] is a very exciting prospect. This marks his first 24 hour race but he is intelligent, fit and very fast. I am not concerned whatsoever about his lack of Spa experience as Matt – he will race there in the British GT Championship three weeks before the 24 hour race. He is part of the long term future of this team and I am sure it will become evident why Zak and I rate him so highly.”


United Autosports continues hectic testing schedule in England then Belgium
Since the Avon Tyres British GT Championship Media Days at Silverstone earlier this month, the Anglo-American team has continued its hectic testing program.

Its three-car Audi R8 LMS sports car team has clocked up mileage at Snetterton (March 10) and Rockingham (March 14-15) with BGT “regulars” Matt Bell, John Bintcliffe, Michael Guasch and Jay Palmer – plus latest Spa signing Herbert – all involved. Later this week the Leeds-based team heads to Oulton Park before making the trip to Spa-Francorchamps.



Richard Dean (GB), Managing Director & Co-Owner of United Autosports:
“Lots of laps in every condition possible including fog so basically everything we expect the British series to throw at us during the course of the season! We’ve got two days booked at Oulton Park later this week for the BGT team to continue our pre-season work at the venue which hosts the opening two rounds of the BGT at Easter. Then we go to Spa to combine both the BGT team and some members of our Spa 24 Hour line-up. And like Zak says, watch this space for exciting driver news next month!”

United Autosports
Created in 2009, United Autosports is co-owned by American Zak Brown and Briton Richard Dean, both successful entrepreneurs and international race car drivers. The unique Anglo-American racing team fields GT3 class Audi R8 LMS sports cars from its United Kingdom headquarters in Leeds. It also races a fleet of “Legends of Motorsports” historic racing cars from its US facility in Indianapolis, Indiana. In 2011, the team competes in full-seasons of FIA GT3 European Championship, Avon Tyres British GT Championship and the “Legends of Motorsports” series. It will additionally contest selected GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series events, the 24 Hours of Spa (Belgium) and Macau GT Cup race (China).

Audi R8 LMS
V10 5.2-liter engine, 4 valves per cylinder, petrol direct injection, 523 PS, emission control by two racing catalytic converters, rear-wheel-drive, traction control (ASR), sequential pneumatic activated 6-speed sport gearbox with shift-paddles, Audi Space Frame (ASF) made of aluminum with bolted steel roll-cage, carbon-fiber composite/aluminum bodywork, Dunlop (for FIA & Spa 24Hr) and Avon (for BGT) radial tires. Start weight TBA. Limitation at 8500rpm for every gear. Developed by Audi Sport with cooperation from quattro GmbH. Won seven championships across Europe in 2009-2010 plus Spa 24 Hours class victory in début 2009 season and Nürburgring 24 Hours class victories in 2009-2010 and scoring a total 64 victories.

* Comprehensive Bell, Herbert, Meins & Richard biographies plus team & car profiles are available on the United Autosports website http://www.unitedautosports.com/

* Johnny Herbert photographs can be downloaded at www.flickr.com/unitedautosports/sets


For further information, please contact:

Martyn Pass
Audi UK Sport Press
T +44 1564 824600
M +44 7801 859502
Skype martyn.pass

www.audi-press.co.uk

Friday, February 18, 2011

United Autosports To Enter Three Audi R8 LMS For 24 Hours Of Spa After Achieving Fantastic Podium Finish In Belgian Race Début

  • Mark Blundell, Eddie Cheever & Stefan Johansson return to legendary Belgian “enduro” with British-based Audi team
  • Team Co-Owners Zak Brown and Richard Dean, FIA GT3 team regular Mark Patterson plus Alain Li also in Spa driver line-up
  • Successful three-car test completed at Navarra – Joe Osborne has maiden run in Audi R8 LMS

United Autosports returns to the prestigious 24 Hours of Spa (Belgium) this summer (July 30-31) with an expanded three-car Audi R8 LMS entry bidding for GT3 class honors – which could ultimately include outright victory.

Former Grand Prix drivers Mark Blundell (GB), Eddie Cheever (USA) and Stefan Johansson (Sweden) return to the United Autosports fold for a second consecutive year in the Belgian “marathon”.

Mark Patterson (USA), Alain Li (France) plus United Autosports’ co-owners Zak Brown (USA) and Richard Dean (GB) also feature in the driver squad as in 2010. The remaining five drivers that will include more “star” names and the final combinations will be finalized in the coming weeks.  

Class victory cruelly eluded the British-based team during the closing stages of its maiden twice-around-the-clock event after leading last year’s race but nevertheless claimed excellent third and fourth places in the GT3 classification to record the highest-placed finishing positions for Audi.

With the faster GT2 category cars not permitted to compete in this year’s race, the Audi R8 LMS GT3 sports cars have a shot of recording an overall victory on this occasion. United Autosports, Britain’s only “official” Audi customer team, will also contest the FIA GT3 European and British GT Championships this year.


Mark Blundell (GB). Age: 44. Born: Barnet, England. Lives: Royston, England:
Spa 24Hr: 2010 9th/3rd (United Autosports Audi R8 LMS). Spa History: Début May 16 1987 (F3000/2nd). F3000 (1987-89 – 1987/2nd), F1 (1991-95 – 91 scored first-ever F1 point, 94/5th, 95/5th), sportscars (1989/3rd). Last race at Spa: July 31-August 1 2010, Spa 24 Hours (9th/3rd). Other 24Hr races: Le Mans (1989, 1990, 1992/1st, 1995/4th, 2001, 2002, 2003/2nd). Daytona (2011/4th [United Autosports Riley-Ford]).

“Racing at Spa last year proved to be a huge amount of fun while I was very impressed with United Autosports. The team turned out superbly prepared racecars and it was fantastic to finish on the GT3 podium. But I believe there is some more to come and that is why I’m returning. I’ve already finished fourth with the team at Daytona last month and I’m very excited about going back to Spa to compete again in the Audi R8 LMS.”

Zak Brown (USA). Age: 39. Born: Los Angeles, California, USA. Lives: Carmel, Indiana, USA:
Spa 24Hr: 2010 9th/3rd (United Autosports Audi R8 LMS). Spa History: Opel Lotus Formula (1993/3rd). Last race at Spa: July 31-August 1 2010, Spa 24 Hours (9th/3rd). Other 24Hr races: BritCar (Silverstone, GB), Daytona (1997/8th, 1999, 2000, 2010/33rd  o/a/20th, 2011/4th [United Autosports Riley-Ford]).

“I’m looking forward to running three Audi sports cars in this great race. We achieved a tremendous result last year, almost winning our class, but came away with third and fourth positions – the best placed R8 LMS cars in the race. Mark [Blundell] and Stefan [Johansson] are re-joining us along with Alain who ran with us at Spa and then in Zhuhai while Richard is dusting off his crash helmet again as opposed to overseeing the team from the pit wall. It is a great endorsement for our still young team that these former F1 and IndyCar drivers are coming back to us for a second season.”
Eddie Cheever (USA). Age: 53. Born: Phoenix, Arizona, USA. Lives: Indianapolis, USA:
Spa 24Hr: 2010 9th/3rd (United Autosports Audi R8 LMS). Spa History: Spa début May 22 1983 F1/3rd, F1 (1983, 85-89 – 1983/3rd, 1987/4th, 1988/6th), GpC (1986/5th, 1987/4th. Last race at Spa: July 31-August 1 2010, Spa 24 Hours (9th/3rd). Other 24Hr races: Le Mans (1980/19th, 1981/8th, 1986/24th, 1987/5th). Daytona (2006/17th, 2007/32nd).

“I’m very pleased to be returning to drive at Spa again in Zak and Richard’s team. Having led with only a few hours remaining, last year’s race didn't end up quite the way we’d hoped. We were all a little disappointed on the rostrum to have not won but in reality third place, and a fourth for the ‘sister’ United Autosports Audi, was a great achievement. We go back hoping to close out some unfinished business and for sure the team will return stronger. Personally I hope it rains the entire race . . . there’s nothing quite like driving an Audi in the wet at Spa at 3am!"
Richard Dean (GB). Age: 46. Born & Lives: Leeds, West Yorkshire, England:
Spa 24Hr: 2010 9th/3rd (United Autosports Audi R8 LMS). Spa History: Début August 29 1992/Ret (F3000). F3000 (1992), FIA GT (1997/24th/12th), British GT (1998/6th/2nd 1999/2nd). Last race at Spa: July 31-August 1 2010, Spa 24 Hours (9th/3rd). Other 24Hr races: WillHire (GB), BritCar (Silverstone, GB), Nürburgring, Le Mans (2006/15th/1st, 2007/23rd/5th, 2009), Mondello Park (IRL), Daytona (2010/33rd/20th), Dubai.

“I am really looking forward to Spa because we scored a superb result last summer and can go back with confidence. With no GT2 cars in the race, it means that we could be vying for an outright win this time around – especially with the exciting driver line-up Zak has pulled together. Last year’s race hurt and was unbelievably hard with two cars but the outcome was fantastic. We’ll be better prepared this time; our team members are going into it for a second year while Audi Sport and quattro GmbH, which is now in charge of sales and technical support for Audi’s customer and importer teams worldwide, understands our determination and professionalism after our efforts in 2010.”
Stefan Johansson (SE).
Age: 54. Born: Växjö, Sweden. Lives: Los Angeles, California, USA:
Spa 24Hr: 2010 10th/4th (United Autosports Audi R8 LMS). Spa History: Début August 9 1981 (F2/14th). F1 (1983, 85-91 – 1986/3rd, 1987/2nd), F2 (1981-2 – pole-position 1982/F2), GpC (1982-4), 1,000km sports cars (1988/1st). Last race at Spa: July 31-August 1 2010, Spa 24 Hours (10th/4th). Other 24Hr races: Le Mans (1983/6th, 1984, 1990, 1991/6th, 1992/5th, 1997/1st, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003/3rd, 2006, 2007, 2008). Daytona (2000 23rd, 2002 36th/13th, 2005/4th, 2006/22nd).

“I am excited to join United Autosports and the Audi family again for the Spa 24 Hours. The experience last year was beyond my expectations. I firmly believe with what we learned the first time around, should put us in a very good position to not only equal but also improve on our 2010 performance. United Autosports has done a remarkable job in such a short period of time to establish themselves as a top level team and I am honored to be part of the team’s Spa program again.”
Alain Li (F).
Age: 50. Born: Caen, France. Lives: Hong Kong:
Spa 24Hr: 2010 10th/4th (United Autosports Audi R8 LMS). Spa History: Début 2004, Ferrari Challenge Series (2004-8). Last race at Spa: July 31-August 1 2010, Spa 24 Hours (10th/4th). Other 24Hr races: None.

“I am thrilled to be racing in the Spa 24 Hours again with United Autosports. The team made everyone sit up and take notice in 2010 with its Spa and Zhuhai 1,000km podiums. In both races, the team could have achieved the very top step with a little luck. I believe the team will be even better this year after gelling so well last year. For my part I will also be better prepared having completed two more long distances races last year while I will also be taking part in the 12 Hours of Sebring next month. I can't wait for July and get back into the fabulous Audi R8 LMS.”
Mark Patterson (USA). Age:59. Born: Port Elizabeth, S Africa. Lives: Bronxville, N.Y., USA: 
Spa 24Hr: 2009 17th o/a (Ferrari 430 GT3); 2010 10th/4th (United Autosports Audi R8 LMS). Spa History: Début 2001. Lamborghini Super Trophy (2001). Last race at Spa: July 31-August 1 2010, Spa 24 Hours (10th/4th). Other 24Hr races: Daytona (2004 38th/13th, 2005 23rd/14th, 2006/2nd, 2007/9th, 2008/6th, 2009/41st, 2010/7th, 2011/4th [United Autosports Riley-Ford]).

“The Spa 24 Hours is one of the great races in the world. It is still the greatest race track ever and by far the most demanding especially if you sprinkle in the weather factor which always comes in to challenge you during the course of the race. We [United Autosports] had a wonderful time looking back a year ago with all of us drivers having a fabulous time and ultimately posting exceptional results considering it was the team’s first 24 hour race. I am looking forward to it again big time.”

* Comprehensive Blundell, Brown, Cheever, Dean, Johansson, Li & Patterson biographies plus team & car profiles are available on the United Autosports website http://www.unitedautosports.com/.

Monday, January 31, 2011

Rolex 24: Ganassi wins but Brundle was Brilliant! - posted by Formula1Blog

Posted by Negative Camber on Jan 30, 2011 in F1B Op-Ed

Original story: http://www.formula1blog.com/2011/01/30/rolex-24-ganassi-wins-but-brundle-was-brilliant/


I don’t expect Chip Ganassi’s cars to win the Rolex 24 race in Daytona, I respect them when they do win. There is no question that the Ganassi team has the race dialed in and clearly sorted out. The race was marred by a late caution flag for the #90 car suffered a delaminated right rear that exploded shedding car parts all over the track. Scott Pruett was leading at the time with his teammate, Scott Dixon, in the second Ganassi car in second and Joao Barbosa in third.

With four minutes remaining in a fast and furious race, the nerves were high and the green flag waved for a one lap sprint to the checkered flag. Second, third and fourth positions were nose to tail for the restart. In the end, Scott Pruett took the win with Scott Dixon holding off a charging Barbosa for second. The GT class winner was Andy Lally for TRG Porsche.

The victory was a terrific story to be sure but for me, THE story of the 2011 Rolex 24 hour race at Daytona was the return of Martin Brundle with the United Autosports / Michael Shank team. The team brought together owner/driver Zak Brown, Mark Patterson and the two veteran Brit’s, Martin Brundle and Mark Blundell. The team was always in contention and while some teams suffer under the participation of a ProAm driver/owner, Zak Brown was running within touch of the leaders for most of his stints. A testament to his dedication to the United Autosports team and the skill this “owner” has.

While Brown and Patterson held the team in contention, the heavy lifting came from the Brits with Blundell doing a fabulous job of keeping the team at the front and clawing back time with each stint. While Blundell has done a few races over the past several years, he recently did drive for United Autsosports and is used to working with team owners Brown and Dean.

The amazing performance of the race has to go to Martin Brundle who has been driving a microphone for the BBC for the past several years and had not worked with United Autosports before. He pace, aggression and sheer brilliance was a real delight to watch. this retired open-wheel Brit came to the states and humbled many of the NASCAR professional drivers as well as road course legends.



His focus was never in question but some wondered if the F1 commentator was up to the challenge. We interviewed Brundle prior to the race and he seemed as excited as every to come back to Daytona. Brundle pressed hard to make a move on Barbosa on the final lap restart and shot wide into the first corner which ended his chance to make the pass for the podium but no one can take anything away from his brilliant performance.

An endurance race is always a team sport and relying on your mates to not destroy the car, carry out the tactics the team planned and making the best of their stints is a trust that doesn’t come easy. Sometimes owners don’t always make the best drivers but for this team, Brown and his Brits were amazing. It is no different in their FIA GT3 efforts and you can follow them here.

In the old days, a few enthusiasts would form a team and go racing in the Rolex 24 but those days are gone and the professionals have shown up to make the race a different beast. Refreshing then that United Autosports felt that a team owner and three veterans could join Shank racing and nearly reach the podium in an incredibly demanding race. A real feat by anyone’s measure. Congratulations to Zak Brown, Mark Patterson, Mark Blundell and one of the hardest working men in Daytona this weekend, Martin Brundle.


United Autosports Achieves Stunning Fourth Place Finish On Rolex 24 Début As A Mere 3.752 secs Covers Top-Four

·       Mark Patterson takes #23 Riley-Ford in to the lead at one-quarter distance
·       American team fights back into podium contention after mid-race dramas
·       “Stellar” driver line-up cruelly just miss out on top-three finish on “home” soil


Mark Blundell (GB), Zak Brown (USA), Martin Brundle (GB) and Mark Patterson (USA) achieved a magnificent fourth  place finish in the 49th Rolex 24 At Daytona twice-around-the-clock endurance race In Florida (USA) today (Sunday January 30).

The United Autosports with Michael Shank Racing entry began the prestigious annual race yesterday afternoon from ninth place (1min 40.784secs, 127.163mph) in the 48-car field courtesy of Brundle’s excellent qualifying performance on Thursday afternoon.

The #23 Riley was up to third place three hours in to the race and despite Brundle suffering a slow right rear punctured tire near the end of his second stint, necessitating a slightly earlier than scheduled pit-stop, Patterson led at one-quarter distance (six hours) – Mark heading a race in a DP for the very first time in his seven year GRAND-AM career.

Third-placed Brundle was tagged from behind at the re-start following a caution period in the ninth hour costing around 30secs and slipping to eighth. The 1988 Daytona race winner went on to complete almost a full second “stint” – the team generally opting for single driver “stints” – but was forced to pit prematurely once again after running over a large piece of debris which damaged the nose section necessitating new front bodywork.

Patterson resumed third but approaching mid-distance was punted in to a spin – the culprit receiving a drive-thru penalty – and later pitted for another new front nose section due to splitter damage, a broken “stay” and damaged front brake cooling duct repairs – a legacy from the Brundle incident.
Zak Brown was presented with the Jim Trueman Award after the race
Blundell resumed 10th but three laps down after a near six minute pit-stop with the Daytona “rookie” subsequently surviving two separate “hits”, Mark placing eighth at the halfway mark before pitting for a third front nose change due to these latest contacts.

The front brake pads were changed at the end of Brown’s stint with the rear pads changed shortly after Patterson had taken over from Brundle – the team taking advantage of the race running under yellow caution flags – ultimately for almost three hours starting shortly before 6am – due to fog which had reduced visibility.

Clever team strategy during “yellows” plus Patterson and Brown – the latter getting the #23 Riley back on the lead lap in his final stint and later awarded the Jim Trueman Award for the top-placed Pro-Am driver – setting consistent and competitive lap times along with their “illustrious” team-mates, allowed Brundle back into fifth place with a little over five hours remaining less than 10secs behind the leader. 

With four hours to run Brundle, double “stinting” once more, was third – 47secs down on the leader – Blundell taking over from his fellow former Le Mans 24 Hour race winner and was less than one second behind the leader (#02) when #01 was given a time penalty for a pit infringement.
  
Brundle took over from Blundell and rejoined still third and with 0.75secs covering the top-three with 80mins to run but Martin slipped to fourth place with 65mins remaining, Brundle ultimately taking the checker fourth, a mere 3.752secs behind the winner after 721-laps, 2,563.2-miles – and just 0.75secs behind the third-placed finisher after a final full course caution in the final seven minutes.

Martin also set the #23 Riley’s fastest lap around the 3.56-mile, 12-turn course that utilizes sections of re-surfaced Daytona International Speedway “oval” plus infield section – a 1min 41.549secs (126.205mph) on lap 413 of the race at 5am this morning.

The race, run throughout in dry weather conditions and warm daytime temperatures, featured 23 full course cautions accounting for 125 laps behind the pace car.



#23 Johnnie Walker / UBS / Legends of Motorsports / Just Marketing International / GAC Logistics / Thunderhead / FXI / Luke’s Joint – Riley-Ford

DRIVER ROTATIONS: MBR/MP/MBL/ZB/MBR/MP/MBL/ZB/MBR/MP/MBL/ZB/MBR/MP/MBL/ZB/MBR/MBL
#23 HOURLY POSITIONS: Start Pos 9th; 1hr 4th (-18.734s P1 #01); 2hr 6th (-5.066 P1 #90); 3hr 9th (-7.933s P1 #55); 4hr 9th (-98.941s P1 #10); 5hr 7th (-14.005s P1 #5); 6hr 1st (+0.592s); 7hr 4th (-18.851s P1 #01); 8hr 9th (-76.737s P1 #01); 9hr 7th (-17.826s P1 #01); 10hr 5th (-83.062s P1 #01); 11hr 6th (-67.360s P1 #6); 12hr 8th (-3 laps, P1 #9); 13hr 8th (-3 laps P1 #01); 14hr 8th (-2 laps P1 #01); 15hr 7th (-2 laps P1 #5); 16hr 7th (-1 lap P1 #5); 17hr 7th (1 lap P1 #02); 18hr 7th (-1 lap P1 #02); 19hr 5th (-16.370s P1 #02); 20hr 3rd (-46.180s P1 #02); 21hr 3rd (-16.739s P1 #01); 22hr 3rd (-1.620 P1 #02); 23hr 4th (-6.895s P1 #02); FINISH P4 (3.752s P1 #01).



Mark Blundell (GB). Age: 44. Born: Barnet, England. Lives: Royston, England.
Daytona History: One 24Hr race. Daytona 24Hr: Début 2011. 2011 4th (Riley-Ford). Other 24Hr races: Le Mans, France (1989, 1990, 1992/1st, 1995/4th, 2001, 2002, 2003/2nd); Spa, Belgium (2010 9th/3rd in class).

“We got so close to being on the podium and after the excitement of a top-three result being on the cards, finishing fourth, so close to a podium, is a little deflating. But I think we did a tremendous job and it was a great effort by the team. All four drivers contributed in every way. We turned up here saying that if we could get in to the top-six, that would be a good performance – and we managed fourth, so I guess we should be very happy with ourselves.”

Zak Brown (USA). Age: 39. Born: Los Angeles, California, USA. Lives: Carmel, Indiana, USA.
Daytona History: Four 24Hr races. Daytona 24Hr: Début 1997. Number of Daytona 24Hr race appearances: 5. 1997/8th o/a, 2nd GTS, 1999, 2000 (GT), 2010 33rd/20th (GT), 2011 4th (Riley-Ford). Other 24Hr races: BritCar, Silverstone, GB (2nd o/a, 1st in class); Spa, Belgium (2010 9th/3rd in class).

“Fourth place and to be on the lead lap, fighting for a podium with a chance for us winning on our Daytona début and our first race in the US, is fantastic. The two Marks and Martin did a great job – I couldn’t be happier. Of course it is a little disappointing not to get on the podium when we were a couple of feet away but hey, we’ll take a fourth in this field.”

Martin Brundle (GB). Age: 51. Born: King’s Lynn, Norfolk, England. Lives: Gayton, Norfolk, England.
Daytona History: Three 24Hr races. Daytona 24Hr: Début 1988. Number of Daytona 24Hr race appearances: 3. 1988: 1st (Jaguar XJR-9); 1990: 2nd (Jaguar XJR-12); 2011 4th (Riley-Ford). Other 24Hr races: Le Mans, France (1987, 1988, 1990/1st, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2001; Spa, Belgium (1983, 1984); Willhire, Snetterton, GB (1980/1st in class).    

“We all put in some pretty amazing stints. We clawed our way into a podium slot but we didn’t quite have enough when it was needed. I made a banzai move at the end but that was more in hope than anything else. I think between us we have done a great job. We have 2 ‘retired pros’ in Mark and I plus 2 Pro-Am drivers up against car line-ups featuring four ‘current’ hot shoes. I’m kind of disappointed but that is typical me of me – I wanted that podium. My goal was a top-10 on the grid and top-five in the race and we achieved both so I think we covered ourselves with a bit of glory and maybe surprised more than a few people.”

Mark Patterson (USA). Age: 59. Born: Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Lives: Bronxville, N.Y., USA. 
Daytona History: Eight 24Hr races. Daytona 24Hr: Début 2004. Number of Daytona 24Hr race appearances: 8. (2004 38th/13th SGS, 2005 23rd/14th (DP), 2006/2nd (DP), 2007/9th (DP), 2008/6th (DP), 2009 41st/16th (DP), 2010/7th (DP), 2011 4th (Riley-Ford). Other 24Hr races: Spa, Belgium (2009 17th o/a, 2010 10th/4th in class).   

“I had some great stints, particularly the one in the fog, sticking at 60mph for what seemed like an eternity was fantastic fun! The team brought us back in to the race with great strategy. These two Formula 1 drivers in our team really demonstrated their competitiveness and helped Zak and I play our part.”

Mike Shank (USA), Team Owner of Michael Shank Racing:

“We had a great time. Martin almost grabbed P2 on that last move. Both he and Mark still have plenty of gas in their tanks while Zak and Mark drove stellar races. If you consider we were down multiple laps and came back in to contention that has to be a pretty cool achievement for the #23 car.”

Richard Dean (GB), Managing Director & Co-Owner of United Autosports:

“It was United Autosports’ second 24 hour race and I’ve a similar feeling immediately after this race to how I felt [in our first one] at Spa. I can’t help feeling disappointed again. Before the start here we would have taken fourth place for sure but having led and been in contention for a podium for much of the race, it hurts a little. I’m a little fed up of being so close but taking the positives, it’s another result for the team to build on. If we keep focused that elusive first race win is bound to happen – soon!”


United Autosports Switches Focus To Double European Campaign With Audi R8 LMS Sports Cars

United Autosports’ 2011 FIA GT3 European Championship line-up at Daytona (l-r): Matt Bell, Zak Brown, Joe Osborne and Mark Patterson


While further GRAND-AM race outings are a possibility, United Autosports now switches its attention to preparing for a hectic, closely fought season of GT racing in Europe. A brace of Audi R8 LMS GT3 class sports cars will bid for honors in both the FIA GT3 European and British GT Championships this year.

In addition to the 12 (FIA) and 14 (BGT) races, the England-based team plans to compete in the 24 Hours of Spa (Belgium) and the Macau GT races again – a program supported by Draper Tools. A concerted test program is scheduled to begin in two weeks time. 

British duo Joe Osborne and Matt Bell, both interested spectators at Daytona this weekend, together with Brown and Patterson, will be at Navarra (Spain) over February 15-16 with all three of its Audi R8 LMS cars marking Osborne’s first run in an Audi. Meanwhile United Autosports’ British GT duo of John Bintcliffe and Jay Palmer will have their first runs in an R8 LMS at Silverstone (England) on March 4.

Joe Osborne (GB). Age: 21. Lives: Olney nr Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, England:
“It’s been three months since I signed to drive for United Autosports and to have the first test just two weeks or so away is a fantastic feeling. It’s my first time driving an Audi and first time at Navaara – I can’t wait to get out there – I’m so, so excited about the season ahead.”

Matt Bell (GB). Age: 21. Lives: Barningham nr Richmond, North Yorkshire, England:
“I’m very much looking forward to the test especially considering I last drove the Audi in October – I’ve never wanted Christmas to come and go so fast in my life! I’ve a very busy year ahead contesting two championships so it’s vital I prepare properly for what is only my second full season of motor racing. My first race is on Easter Monday so we’ll be packing in plenty of testing in the next couple of months.”


Riley DP
Roush-Yates prepared V8 Ford 5 liter modular engine, 4 cam, 4 valve, producing over 500hp. Rear-wheel-drive. Continental Tires. Weight: 2275lbs; 5 gears, paddle-shift gearbox. The Riley Technologies MK XXII is the most successful Daytona Prototype of all time.

Audi R8 LMS
V10 5.2-liter engine, 4 valves per cylinder, petrol direct injection, emission control by two racing catalytic converters, rear-wheel-drive, traction control (ASR), sequential pneumatic activated 6-speed sport gearbox with shift-paddles, Audi Space Frame (ASF) made of aluminum with bolted steel roll-cage, carbon-fiber composite/aluminum bodywork. Limitation at 8500rpm for every gear. Developed by Audi Sport with cooperation from quattro GmbH.  

United Autosports
Co-owned by Zak Brown and Richard Dean, the US-owned, UK-based team was formed in 2010 and contested the FIA GT3 European Championship with a brace of Audi R8 LMS sports cars. Also competed in 24 Hours of Spa (finishing third & fourth in GT3 class on team’s 24 race début), Intercontinental Le Mans Cup at Zhuhai, China (third in GTC) and Macau (third GT Cup). Competes in the 2011 FIA GT3 European and Avon Tyres British GT Championships plus 24 Hours of Spa and Macau.

Michael Shank Racing
Since moving full-time to the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series, Pataskala, Ohio-based Michael Shank Racing has taken three overall wins and 19 podium results, including second overall in the 2006 Rolex 24 At Daytona as well as monopolizing the front row for the 2008 Rolex 24.

* Comprehensive Blundell, Brown, Brundle and Patterson biographies plus team profiles on United Autosports and Michael Shank Racing are available to download from the United Autosports website www.unitedautosports.com/pdf/daytona_presskit.pdf.

* Editorial Copyright free photographs from Daytona are available on www.flickr.com/unitedautosports.

* Driver interviews (.MP3 format) can be downloaded from www.unitedautosports.com/press.cfm