JR Motorsports becomes title sponsor of Hawkeye Dirt Tour

By Jeff Werderman

ANKENY, Iowa (Feb. 16) – JR Motorsports has signed on the dotted line to become title sponsor of the inaugural Hawkeye Dirt Tour for IMCA Modifieds.

The Ankeny engine and chassis manufacturer will provide a portion of the series point fund, as well as marketing assistance and hands-on support at all 10 tour events. The point champion will earn $1,000 and the runner-up $600. Point fund money will be paid through tenth place.

"What we like about this arrangement is that it's more than just a sponsorship," said Bucky Doren, the tour coordinator and spokesman. "This is a partnership. JR Motorsports is helping add money into the season-end point fund and has also agreed to help with marketing of the tour. That adds another marketing dimension for the series."

The tour opens May 11 at Independence Motor Speedway and travels to I-35 Speedway in Mason City on May 31, Fayette County Speedway in West Union on June 15, Cresco Speedway on June 24, Lee County Speedway in Donnellson on July 1, Upper Iowa Speedway in Decorah on July 28, Hancock County Speedway in Britt on Aug. 12 and Marshalltown Speedway on Sept. 17 and 18 before concluding at 34 Raceway in West Burlington on Sept. 25.

All events pay a minimum of $1,000 to win and are qualifying races for 2010 or 2011 Fast Shafts All-Star Invitational ballots.

"The concept of a traveling series in Iowa is something we've been eagerly anticipating for a few years," said JR Motorsports General Manager Scot Johnson. "The entire Team at JR's is behind this 100 percent and we view our involvement with the Hawkeye Dirt Tour as a way to thank all racers for their commitment and support."

"The idea of a touring series in Iowa has provided tremendous feedback," he continued. "Drivers seem to get a little more excited with the opportunity to chase a title, and the fans are guaranteed to see some of the best competition the ButlerBuilt North Central Region has to offer."

JR plans additional support for all race teams following the series.

"Our machinists have gone through the schedule and committed at least two team members at every show," explained Johnson. "We will be there to help racers tune their engines, answer questions or provide professional technical support."

"This is another example of what JR Motorsports is bringing to the table," Doren said. "Everyone at JR Motorsports is committed to make sure the drivers have every chance possible to compete, and the fans will get the best show possible."

“JR Motorsports has been focused on serving the racer and high performance enthusiast since its inception in 1999,” he added. “Their warehouse features a complete line of parts, their Victory Chassis is track tested and championship proven and their machine shop builds one of the most dependable power plants available.”

More information about the JR Motorsports Hawkeye Dirt Tour will be available at the www.dirttour.com and www.imca.com websites