Notes: Fuel injection, Gateway and more
Thursday, Jul. 29, 2010
Some short takes from the motorsports notebook as we head to Pocono:
Yates ready to tackle fuel-injection
One of NASCAR's top engine builders is ready to tackle the next technology jump: fuel injection.
"It's something we need to do," said Doug Yates, co-owner of Roush Yates Engines. "I think NASCAR needs to move beyond the carburetor and get into a little bit more advanced engine technology.
"For me as an engine guy, it's exciting. It's something new and I think for a person that has young sons that may get into the business, it would be a shame if they're working on carburetors 20 years from now."
In the past, NASCAR has shied away from fuel injection, fearful the technology would be harder to police.
However, with a push from the manufacturers, NASCAR officials have said they are considering a move to fuel injection, perhaps as soon as 2011.
Gateway gives up NASCAR races
Dover Motorsports Inc. announced earlier this week it would not seek to renew its sanctioning agreements and host NASCAR Nationwide and Truck series races at its Gateway International Raceway near St. Louis.
"This was a difficult decision in light of the many years of earnest and continued efforts on everyone's part to develop a viable market for these events in one of our nation's great cities," said Terry Harmeson, vice president and general manager of Gateway.
Denis McGlynn, president and CEO of Dover Motorsports, said the company will evaluate all options for the facility, including its possible sale.
NASCAR announces other penalties
A little luster was lost on driver Aric Almirola's strong finish in last weekend's Nationwide race at O'Reilly Raceway Park when his No. 88 JR Motorsports team was assessed penalties for an unapproved left-front shock absorber.
The violation was discovered in post-race inspection. Crew chief Tony Eury Sr. was fined $10,000, owner Dale Earnhardt Jr. was docked 25 owner points and Almirola lost 25 driver points.
Jimmy Elledge, crew chief for the Red Bull Racing's No. 83 Toyota in the Cup series was fined $25,000 for having improperly attached weight on the car during a practice session.
Next race
Pennsylvania 500
What: 200 laps or 500 miles
Where: Pocono Raceway, Long Pond, Pa.
When: 1 p.m. Sunday.
TV: ESPN
Radio: Motor Racing Network
Last year’s winner: Denny Hamlin
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