From Jim Hanks
HOLLY, Mich. – As the BIOBASED.US/Must See Racing Xtreme Sprint Series prepares for a busy 2011 season, a legendary figure joins the series as they prepare for competition at a variety of Midwestern venues.
Hall of Fame team owner and mechanic Jack French has been named Technical Director for the series, bringing to the position over four decades of technical experience and success. French, a native and resident of Waynetown, Indiana, has sprint car credentials that date back to 1969 when he began his career as a driver and mechanic.
French has worked with a vast number of racers as a chief mechanic, and his technical knowledge ranks him among the most accomplished people in sprint car racing. His mechanical expertise is exceeded only by the respect and esteem in which he is held within the sprint car community, as he enjoys a stellar reputation as a professional who consistently respects both the sport and his fellow competitors.
“Every organization is known by the people with whom they associate” said MSR president Jim Hanks. “Obviously, being associated with Jack French is an honor and a privilege. He brings tremendous technical knowledge to the table, but even more important is the fact that he is known throughout the sport as a man of impeccable character. He is a straight shooter and he is perfect for that position.”
After years of competition, this will mark the first time French has donned an official’s uniform. “I’m excited about this opportunity,” French said. “It will be different to be on the other side of things, but I’m looking forward to it. I believe in what this series is doing, because they give teams an opportunity to race at some of the premier venues in the Midwest. Plus, I know most of the guys in the pit area, because I’ve worked with them at various times in the past. It’s a solid group of racers that I know from experience are good people.
“As a competitor I have always believed the best situation is when rules are enforced the same for everybody, and that’s how I will operate.”
2011 will mark MSR’s third year of competition, with 12 events on the schedule at some of the Midwest’s most exciting venues. The winged sprint car contingent is known as “the world’s fastest short-track cars,” and will feature a growing list of well-known competitors.
The 2011 season gets underway at Salem Speedway on April 10, and will once again reach nearly 100 million U.S. homes through a tape-delayed television package in partnership with Comcast Sports Networks, DirecTV , Dish NetWork as well as various Internet-based broadcasts. All the events can also be viewed worldwide on RaceFansTV.