tag:www.norcalrotax.com,2008://1 2008-07-03T01:28:26Z News of the Northern California Rotax Challenge Movable Type 3.35 tag:www.norcalrotax.com,2008://1.82 2008-07-03T01:27:08Z 2008-07-03T01:28:26Z

The fourth round of the Jim Russell Norcal Rotax Challenge dawned with great mild weather in the Jim Russell Karting Center at Infineon Raceway. The anticipation of the first time running of the Reverse National track filled the air. Also a visit from Rotax National Distributor SSC Racing also gave...

Carlos The fourth round of the Jim Russell Norcal Rotax Challenge dawned with great mild weather in the Jim Russell Karting Center at Infineon Raceway. The anticipation of the first time running of the Reverse National track filled the air. Also a visit from Rotax National Distributor SSC Racing also gave the day a ‘special occasion’ atmosphere. Add another record turn out (52 entries) for the Norcal Rotax Challenge and the scene was set for a good day of racing. In addition to the great racing, a couple of Junior 1 drivers, Michael Avansino and Nitro Nick Sommers, drove the Rotax MicroMax karts during the day. Ric Shaw.]]> tag:www.norcalrotax.com,2008://1.81 2008-07-03T01:21:54Z 2008-07-03T01:22:32Z

The results page has been updated with the current points standings....

Carlos results page has been updated with the current points standings.]]> tag:www.norcalrotax.com,2008://1.80 2008-06-30T23:13:08Z 2008-06-30T23:15:43Z

The results page has been updated with the MyLaps times from race #4....

Carlos results page has been updated with the MyLaps times from race #4.]]> tag:www.norcalrotax.com,2008://1.79 2008-06-23T18:14:29Z 2008-06-23T18:16:22Z

Sponsors page....

Carlos Sponsors page.]]> tag:www.norcalrotax.com,2008://1.78 2008-06-23T14:31:24Z 2008-06-23T14:34:39Z

The Jim Russell Northern California Rotax Challenge is pleased to announce Snap-on Tools as the official tools supplier of the series. As part of the sponsorship, Snap-on Tools has provided 5 Blue Point 100 piece general service sets valued at $334.95 each, to be given away at the end of...

Adrian Prize details: Snap-on Blue Point BLPGSSC100 General Service Set Description: 100 piece tool set including metric and standard shallow sockets, spark plug sockets, Metric and standard wrenches, extensions and ratchets. Set Components (1/4" Drive): • 10 Fractional (3/16" to 9/16") and 13 Metric (4mm to 14mm) Standard Sockets • 5 Ratchet/Socket Accessories • 1 Ratchet Set Components (3/8" Drive): • 13 Fractional (1/4" to 1") and 19 Metric (6mm to 24mm) Standard Sockets • 11 External Torx® Sockets (E4 to E20) • 2 Spark Plug Sockets (5/8", 13/16") • 5 Ratchet/Socket Accessories • 1 Ratchet • 1 Spinner Handle Set Components (Combination Wrenches) • 9 Fractional Combination Wrenches (1/4" to 3/4") • 10 Metric Combination Wrenches (10mm to 19mm) ““We are extremely grateful for the generous support of a great company, Snap-on Tools. We use Snap-on Tools at the track and in the shop everyday and as everyone knows, they are of the highest quality. The support and knowledge we receive from our local supplier, Shane Baker has greatly assisted us in our service business.” said Adrian Szwarcburg, Owner of Marin Karting and Norcal Series organizer. “Their support adds even more to the fantastic prize package for drivers of the Jim Russell Northern California Rotax Challenge.” With local, national and world championships offered through the Rotax program it is no wonder it continues to grow. The Rotax program is easy to understand; the engine is easy to maintain and affordable. The sealed engines create an equal playing field which helps attract new karters to the sport. Please order your Snap-on Tools from our local dealer who made this sponsorship possible. Email Shane Baker at Shanebakersnapon@aol.com or call 415-328-1219. About Snap-on Snap-on Incorporated is a leading global innovator, manufacturer and marketer of tools, diagnostics and equipment solutions for professional users. Product lines include hand and power tools, tool storage, diagnostics software, information and management systems, shop equipment and other solutions for vehicle manufacturers, dealerships and repair centers, as well as customers in industry, government, agriculture and construction. Founded in 1920, Snap-on is a $2.5 billion, S&P 500 company headquartered in Kenosha, Wisconsin. For additional information on Snap-on, visit www.snapon.com. ]]> tag:www.norcalrotax.com,2008://1.77 2008-06-18T20:52:32Z 2008-06-18T20:56:26Z

The United States Rotax Kart Challenge program is proud to announce the return of a national points ranking system for all of it’s drivers competing in more than 25 local and regional RMax Challenge series around the country....

Carlos The United States Rotax Kart Challenge program is proud to announce the return of a national points ranking system for all of it’s drivers competing in more than 25 local and regional RMax Challenge series around the country. www.usrmaxnrd.com. The next update is scheduled for the first week of July.]]> tag:www.norcalrotax.com,2008://1.76 2008-06-18T03:55:19Z 2008-06-18T04:00:39Z

Marin Karting, the bay area's exclusive CRG and Rotax dealer/service center is pleased to announce that SSC Racing will attend the next Rotax race to be held at Jim Russell karting center on Saturday, June 28th. Director of Race Operations and experienced technician James Perez and Rotax Program Director Jermie...

Adrian jmeyer@sscracing.com]]> tag:www.norcalrotax.com,2008://1.75 2008-06-11T00:55:18Z 2008-06-11T03:28:10Z

LeMans Karting Signs as Major Sponsor of Premier Northern California Rotax Challenge Series Bay Area indoor kart racing center supports series racers with valuable ‘seat time’; bridges new drivers to the sport of outdoor karting. LeMans Karting, located in Fremont California, is the official indoor kart racing facility of the...

Adrian About LeMans Karting LeMans Karting is “YOUR Neighborhood Racetrack”. Located in Fremont, California, LeMans Karting’s mission is to provide the BEST VALUE in motorsports, and a place where a community of friends, from all walks of life, can enjoy a safe, yet truly challenging wheel-to-wheel race experience. For corporate teambuilding, private parties and walk-in racers, the indoor raceway offers every driver - the novice, the expert racer, and all levels in between - a similar adrenaline rush. Everything is provided for a great racing experience: tuned, European-build karts, a proper race course, clean facilities, all safety equipment and training, and a service-oriented staff - and does it at a price everyone can afford. www.RaceLMKLeMans.com. ]]> tag:www.norcalrotax.com,2008://1.74 2008-06-09T19:22:49Z 2008-06-09T19:37:48Z

Ed Broberg has made available the photographs taken during Round 3 of the Norcal Rotax Challenge. To view or purchase the photos, please go to photos.norcalrotax.com....

Carlos photos.norcalrotax.com.]]> tag:www.norcalrotax.com,2008://1.73 2008-06-04T21:56:34Z 2008-06-04T21:58:54Z

The standings have been updated with the results of race 3. The MyLaps link has also been posted on the results page....

Carlos results page.]]> tag:www.norcalrotax.com,2008://1.72 2008-06-04T03:14:02Z 2008-06-04T03:14:48Z

Round three of the Jim Russell Northern California Rotax Challenge was run at the Jim Russell kart track on the challenging Sprint track layout under mild overcast skies. 51 drivers came out for Race #3 equally the largest entry turnout that was set in April. 11 Junior Rotax drivers were...

Carlos Round three of the Jim Russell Northern California Rotax Challenge was run at the Jim Russell kart track on the challenging Sprint track layout under mild overcast skies. 51 drivers came out for Race #3 equally the largest entry turnout that was set in April. 11 Junior Rotax drivers were entered, the largest Junior Rotax field in Norcal history. Ric Shaw.]]> tag:www.norcalrotax.com,2008://1.71 2008-05-27T23:17:39Z 2008-05-27T23:22:07Z

We received an email from SSC West a few months back inviting Marin Karting to join SSC East, and top CRG/Rotax dealers to visit two of the largest karting companies in the world as their guest. Naturally we jumped at the opportunity to learn what goes into the products we...

Carlos We received an email from SSC West a few months back inviting Marin Karting to join SSC East, and top CRG/Rotax dealers to visit two of the largest karting companies in the world as their guest. Naturally we jumped at the opportunity to learn what goes into the products we sell and be able to share more information with our customers. Timing was also on our side as a WSK International kart race was scheduled to take place at the track located very close to CRG so we could see how the Europeans put on a race event and top drivers compete at the highest level. CRG visit After a 5 hour drive South from Wels, we arrived in Desenzano del Garda, Italy. This is the home on CRG, the largest kart manufacturer in the world. CRG also own Maxter kart engines and this facility is here as well. We were greeted by Francesca who manages all sales outside of Europe. Francesca gave us a factory tour to see how the chassis where put together. CRG is the last hand welded chassis. CRG had implemented robots to weld the chassis but they could not produce the quality and finish that CRG demand. Look at the welds on a CRG chassis and you can see the difference. CRG is expanding and constructing two brand new buildings next door to their current location. One building is already open and houses Maxter engine manufacturing and development. The new buildings are impressive and demonstrate the commitment of CRG to produce the highest quality and performing products in the karting world. Their dedication is evident. We had a chance to see some of the new developments. An Electronic paddle shifting ICC system, fuel injection, new rear hubs (we hand-carried a few sets back), front hand break controls and aerodynamic battery cover for TaG. Giancarlo Tinini, owner of CRG, is investing time and money in Maxter engine development and the results are starting to show. Giancarlo, Francesca and everyone at CRG were gracious hosts and really looked after us. A weekend of racing, European style Our trip coincided with a WSK International kart race being held at the South Garda Karting track close to CRG so we decided to stay the weekend and get a firsthand look at top level karting in Europe. This series comprises of 4 or 5 classes, only 3 are raced at the event. Even with just 3 classes, over 240 karts competed, about 80 per class. Drivers come from all over Europe and other parts of the world to compete in this series. This is top level karting and it shows. Everyone participating is either a factory driver or an arrive and drive driver with a factory team. The arrive and drive drivers pay upward of $25,000 for the 4 day race with a team. For this, they get use of a new chassis, new engine, team mechanic, fuel, tires and parts. Basically, show up with suit and helmet (neck collars are not required in Italy). The scale of the factory pit setups is impressive. CRG had 3 big rig trailers where a pit tent setup is attached to the trailer. There are viewing platforms on top of the trailers which provide a great view of the track. This event consisted entirely of 125cc electric start engines which conform to the CIK KF1, KF2 and KF3 class specifications. They run soft tires. KF3 (juniors) use what is equivalent to a YHB. KF2 and KF3 use even sticker tires. This makes for very fast racing. With only 3 classes running, racers get plenty of track time at these events. I can only imagine what the tire bill must be. Classes are split in half for practice, qualifying and heat races with only the top 36 or so qualifying for the final, so some racers go home early. In the KF1 and KF2 classes, all karts used an independent hand operated front brake and foot operated rear brake. This enables drivers to only apply front brakes or rear brakes at any time. This proves to be very effective and is now the standard setup. At lunch time there was a driver presentation of all finalists. The racing was fast, very competitive and with a style you don't see here very much. Much more contact between karts and lots of clean quick passing maneuvers. Rear bumpers are mandatory and it's a really good safety addition. I am sure the US will follow shortly. As it turned out, CRG/Maxter won the premier KF1 class and also picked up 3rd place. A great result for the CRG team. The trophy presentation was F1 like with flags being raised and the national anthem of the winner being played. The trip was very enjoyable and well worthwhile. Our special thanks to SSC West, SSC East, BRP Rotax and CRG for making the trip possible. If you would like to see more photos from our trip, follow the following links: http://picasaweb.google.com/marinkarting/RotaxFactoryVisitMay2008 http://picasaweb.google.com/marinkarting/CRGVisitMay2008 Adrian and Kit]]> tag:www.norcalrotax.com,2008://1.70 2008-05-22T17:31:53Z 2008-05-23T20:17:57Z

May 20, 2008, (Palm Springs, Calif.) -- SSC Racing is proud to announce that Mazda USA has assumed the position of presenting sponsor for the Rotax Max Challenge....

Carlos May 20, 2008, (Palm Springs, Calif.) -- SSC Racing is proud to announce that Mazda USA has assumed the position of presenting sponsor for the Rotax Max Challenge. Mazda's reputation in the motorsports community is well-known, with involvement in auto racing stretching from grassroots amateur racing in the SCCA and NASA, to series such as Formula Drift, Grand-Am, the American LeMans Series, and the Atlantic Championship powered by Mazda. Mazda's involvement in the Rotax Max Challenge sponsorship is an extension of its 2007 karting initiative. In 2007, Mazda sponsored the America's Team at the Rotax Grand Finals in Dubai, and in addition to its new sponsorship with Rotax, will once again sponsor the America's Team. Additionally, the Rotax Max Challenge will have a presence at select events at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca throughout 2008. "Needless to say, we couldn't be more thrilled about our expanded association with Mazda," said Joe Ramos, President of SSC Racing. "Mazda is a partner who is going to take an active roll in the promotion of the Rotax Max Challenge. Along with the announcement, SSC Racing has unveiled the new Rotax Max Challenge logo, reflecting the series' expanded relationship with Mazda. "Mazda's Motorsports strategy is built on grassroots racing and giving drivers of all ages the opportunity to grow their careers in the business of motorsports," said John Doonan, Manager, Motorsports Team Development, Mazda North American Operations. "With the transitions that started taking place with regard to open wheel reunification over the last several months, we did our utmost to make sure than any and all Mazda series that were impacted (whether it was losing entire race events, adjusting television packages, and compiling prizes and awards, etc.) would remain strong for participants. "The Rotax Max Challenge was certainly one of those elements that was impacted by losing the Champ Car title sponsorship. Our experience with the Rotax community during our 2007 karting initiative was very positive. So, when we learned of the changes, we called Joe Ramos and his team and let them know we were behind them and wanted to increase our involvement. It was pretty simple to increase our involvement with Rotax for 2008, but over the long term, Mazda wants to provide ladder opportunities for those who wish to grow their careers in motorsports and continue to support those who wish to stay at the grassroots levels." About the Rotax Max Challenge Whether your goal is to compete at the highest level or enjoy a weekend of racing with friends, the Rotax Max Challenge powered by Mazda is for you. It all starts at the local level and through a feeder system of local, regional, national, and world championships participants get the opportunity to test their skills against the best pilots in the world. The series is based around the ROTAX kart engine. There are 5 classes, satisfying ages 8 to 80 and 4 of the 5 classes utilize the same FR-125cc engine. The newest class uses the revolutionary 2-Speed DD2 engine and races in a class by itself. All engines racing in the series are sealed, allowing for no modifications. This keeps costs down and ensures a level playing field -- letting driver skill pave the way towards victory. With demographics ranging three generations the series targets a wide array of people: young, old, families and individuals. The largest class in the series is the Master Class catering to those 32 years and older. The average Master class driver is in his 30's to 40's, middle to upper management, well educated, looking to suffice his need for speed but not wanting to invest a lot of time or money. Its ability to attract individuals from this wide base is the reason Champ Car Rotax has catapulted itself to one of the fastest growing and exciting events in motorsports. For more information, visit www.rmaxchallenge.com. About Mazda Mazda is the brand of choice for road-racers across North America . More than 9,000 grassroots racers compete in various classes with the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) and the National Auto Sport Association (NASA). Racers who are years away from earning a driver's license can now begin their professional motorsports careers in the Mazda family. A driver can begin in karts and progress through the Skip Barber series, Club Racing Formula Mazda, professional Star Mazda and finally to Formula Atlantic, ALL with Mazda. No other car company has ever connected the dots this way. On any given weekend, there are more Mazdas on the road-race tracks of America than any other brand of vehicle. At the track, you'll see MX-5 Miata, RX-8, MAZDA 3 , MAZDA 6 , RX-7 and other vintage Mazda models competing, because every Mazda has the Soul of a Sports Car. In fact, the largest road-racing class in the world is Spec Miata, with more than 1,500 first- and second-generation Miatas tearing up America 's racetracks, making it the most-raced production car in the world. Mazda's involvement in motorsports extends to its relationship with Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, one of the world's premier road-racing circuits, and the Skip Barber Schools for driving and racing. Headquartered in Irvine , Calif. , Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States , Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located i! n Ontario , Canada , and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City. tag:www.norcalrotax.com,2008://1.69 2008-05-21T01:02:34Z 2008-05-21T01:04:47Z

With the growth and popularity of MOLECULE's line driver suit care products, the next step in the promotion of the brand has emerged with a partnership with the 2008 Jim Russell Northern California Rotax Challenge. MOLECULE will provide sample products to Rotax members entered in the series, and will be...

Adrian About MOLECULE: MOLECULE Labs, Inc. provides solutions for the safety, care, and maintenance of numerous technical fabric applications. Specially formulated for Nomex®, tested by the SFI Foundation and proven in diverse racing conditions for over two years, MOLECULE is designed for racers by racers. Formulated to be used on any brand of Nomex® fire suit, the lineup of MOLECULE WASH, MOLECULE REFRESHER , MOLECULE PROTECTOR, and MOLECULE SPOT CLEANER can be found in use on driver and crew suits around the world. For more information and complete info on the products, with videos, technical info, testimonials and more visit www.moleculelabs.com. Marin Karting is an authorized Molecule dealer. Please stop by the shop or trackside trailer to learn more. www.marinkarting.com, ph: 415-898-0999, sales@marinkarting.com.]]> tag:www.norcalrotax.com,2008://1.68 2008-05-19T16:34:26Z 2008-05-19T16:35:12Z

After numerous, frustrating delays we finally received the rulebooks and members t-shirts last weekend. Shipping began on Monday and going as fast as humanly possible....

Carlos After numerous, frustrating delays we finally received the rulebooks and members t-shirts last weekend. Shipping began on Monday and going as fast as humanly possible. The members t-shirts and rulebooks, plus the new official USRMC logo, (presented by Mazda), and a new logo placement sheet are also included with the package. Everyone who submitted applications prior to April 15 was shipped their membership card and official decals. For those who have hats, polo shirts and the second members t-shirt ordered these will come in an additional shipment as soon as these are done. Just so everyone understands the delays this year were due to resolution of the cylinder inspection procedure and the change from Champ Car to Mazda as our presenting sponsor. We apologize for the delay but these issues had to be dealt with. All shipments are being sent to the address on your application via US Priority Mail. We are running into a few address confirmation problems and will be contacting members as these arise. There are a few members who have not submitted requested birth certificates or have not resolved credit card issues. We will ship these once any problems are resolved. If you have questions do not hesitate to e-mail me. If you need to contact me direct my office # is 574-289-3040. I request you send an e-mail unless you need to talk to me directly. We anticipate that by May 30 all memberships in house without issues will be in the mail. We are shipping in the order they are received. Marshall Martin National Race Director United States Rotax Kart Challenge