Team Release
GRIMSBY, Ontario Canada – Jeff Lapcevich’s Tim Hortons-sponsored NASCAR Canadian Tire Series entry will look familiar this season, but plenty has changed with the Hamilton-based team. Lapcevich recently acquired the services of veteran crew chief Tim Ellas, and the team switched to Dodge Challengers for 2011.
“All of the changes we made this winter were done so we can contend for wins,” said Lapcevich. “Tim Ellas brings proven success to the team, and with him calling the shots in the pits I feel we are in a great position to challenge for our first NASCAR win.”
The cars were serviced in the Fastline Motorsports shop in Hamilton, but they will be race-prepared by Ellas in Dave Jacombs’ shop for the race season.
“We have great people in the shop,” said Lapcevich. “Don Barnhart will remain the car chief, but working with Tim and Dave Jacombs gives us the expertise to make the best decisions on race day.
“The decision to switch to Dodge was simple. Dodge gives the best support of any manufacturer, and we are excited to run the Dodge brand.”
The changes followed Tim Hortons recent announcement that it was renewing its agreement with Fastline Motorsports. The announcement extends one of Canada’s longest motorsports marketing partnerships.
“We’re as excited as we’ve been in a long time to get to the track,” said Lapcevich. “We feel we’re on the right track towards success.”
Lapcevich will run most of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series this season starting with its opening event on May 28th at Mosport Speedway near Bowmanville, Ontario. From there the team travels to Montreal for the inaugural Grand Prix ICAR Maribel.
“A new road course will be a fun challenge,” said the road racing ace. “In the past we’ve done very well when we tackle a circuit for the first time. The fans in Montreal love their racing, so it should be a great experience.”