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2008 - MARCELLI YEAR IN REVIEW
BARRIE, ONT. (December 30, 2007) - 17
year-old race car driver Kyle Marcelli, of Barrie, Ont., continues to be on the
fast track to international stardom as he completed another successful season
behind the wheel. Wrapping up a strong first season of pro formula car racing,
after just coming out of the national karting ranks, Marcelli was a
front-runner and one to watch for at every event. The 2007 season witnessed
Marcelli win races, set lap records and win championships in everything he sat
in. |
 2008 - A CHAMPIONSHIP WINNING SEASONBARRIE, ONT. (November 14, 2007) - Brian Graham Racing recently put the finishing touches to its most successful season to date, capturing several awards at the year-end Canadian Automobile Sport Clubs Ontario Region Awards Gala in Toronto this past weekend. Brian Graham Racing rookie standout Kyle Marcelli visited the podium on several occasions. In addition to winning both the Ontario Formula Ford Champion title and OFFC Rookie of the Year, the teenager from Barrie, Ont. was presented with the CASC Competitor of the Year award, edging out competitors from all classes, as well as the British Auto Racing Club Rookie of Year trophy. The most successful team in the Ontario Formula Ford Challenge this past season, Brian Graham Racing scored podium finishes with four different drivers, capturing three wins, five second place finishes and 12 top-three results via Marcelli, Conor Daly, and Ryan White in the A class. In addition, BGR captured two wins and six podium finishes with Ivan Graham in the B class (Diamond), who ran a partial schedule. Among the quickest cars every time on-track, BGR prepared cars set the lap record at Mosport International Raceway, Shannonville Motorsport Park, and Calabogie Motorsport Park during the season. Additionally, Graham also set a new B class lap record at Mosport, which was subsequently broken by Jonathan Hirst at the final race of the year. "I have to thank all our drivers and their families for an outstanding season," stated Team owner Brian Graham. "Kyle, Conor, Greg Beresford, Ryan, my dad Ivan, and Caitlin Johnston who ran the final OFFC race with us, all did a fine job this past season and greatly enjoyed working with them. My crew members Adam Pitts, Ken Robins, Mark Collard, Paul Laurence, Tess Haanstra, Bill Sturman, Mike Taberner, David and Daniel Graham, along with Engineer Ian Macpherson all worked very hard to bring BGR a Championship. I am very proud of each and everyone of them. Of course I have to thank Sandy and Eric of Quicksilver RaceEngines for the flawless performance with reliable, awesome legal power. Mobil One for their product that kept us on track, and although they are our biggest competitors on track, I must also thank Oliver and David Clubine from Britain West Motorsports for continually having the parts at crunch time for us and all the racers at the track." Brian Graham Racing is busy putting the finishing touches on a brand new race shop in preparation for the upcoming 2008 season. With the goal of defending the OFFC title, as well as winning its third consecutive Rookie of the Year award, BGR is currently looking for drivers for winter testing and the 2008 season. |
 MARCELLI ON GETS FIRST TASTE OF
IPS CARBARRIE, ONT. (October 10, 2007) – Newly crowned Ontario Formula Ford Champion Kyle Marcelli, of Barrie, Ont., recently completed a two-day test in one of Brian Stewart’s Indy Pro Series cars at the Dunnville Autodrome. One day prior to the test Marcelli was fortunate enough to do some demonstration laps in front of hundreds of fans at the FormulaCar Magazine CanAm Cup event at Mosport International Raceway. “Firstly, I have to thank Brian Stewart for the opportunity to be invited to test for two days in his IPS cars," stated Marcelli. "Brian is a great guy and over the years has discovered some talented, championship winning drivers. He has a big heart and is always trying to help up-and-coming Canadian drivers and I am going to try and do him proud.” The weather started out looking a little suspect, but the skies cleared just as Marcelli strapped into the 450 horsepower, 1300 lb car at Dunnville. He spent a few laps getting used to the tremendous amount of power compared to his Formula Ford he has been racing this season, but didn’t take long to get up to speed. Working closely with a BSR race engineer, and with his current crew chief Brian Graham at his side, Marcelli studied data from his early run, before going out and setting a new track record for Indy Pro Series cars at Dunnville. “I am really pleased with the way everything went over the two days and left feeling very comfortable in the Indy Pro Series car," commented Marcelli at the completion of the test. "It's awesome. Brian [Stewart] has given me lot of confidence that I can be competitive in the cars right away, and we are all working hard at possibly putting something together for next year.” The off-season will be a busy one for the high school student, as he works on sponsorship packages for the 2008 season. The next step for Marcelli is participation in either the Star Mazda series or Indy Pro Series. Marcelli’s championship-winning season would not have been possible without the support of the following companies and individuals: Trudel & Sons Roofing Ltd, Greg Beresford, Lafarge, ReMax Keswick’s Norm and Shirley MacDonald, Axiom Powdercoating, MG Homes, NBX Action Sports, Alpinestars and Brian Stewart Racing. |
 MARCELLI ON POLE FOR 2007 CANAM
CUPBOWMANVILLE, ONT. (Sptember 29, 2007) – Newly crowned Ontario Formula Ford Challenge champion Kyle Marcelli and reigning CanAm Cup race winner Shane Jantzi will start from the front-row in the 2007 FormulaCar Magazine CanAm Cup, after posting the fastest times in Saturday qualifying at Mosport International Raceway. The Formula Ford competitors, having contested a practice session prior to the lunch break, returned to the fast and undulating Mosport road course at the end of the day for the first of two qualifying sessions. With the two fastest times during the 20-minute session determining the front-row for Sunday’s CanAm Cup race, the drivers wasted little time getting up to speed. Running in close formation, Matt White and Jantzi led the way early on, before current qualifying lap record holder Marcelli moved to the top of the speed charts. Continually getting quicker with each circulation of the 2.459-mile road course, the top-five rotated among White, Marcelli, Jantzi, Dean Baker and Remy Audette lap after lap. With many of the drivers having pitted to make minor changes to their cars, Marcelli became the first driver to post a 1:27 lap, midway through the session. With the pole position very much still up for grabs, the final stages of qualifying witnessed the top-four on the timesheets separated by less than a half of a second. When the checkered flag waved to end Saturday qualifying, Marcelli had captured the pole position with a fast lap of 1:27. 624. Jantzi secured a front-row position for the second-ever FCM CanAm Cup, with the second fastest lap time. Day two of the 2007 FormulaCar Magazine CanAm Cup event gets underway Sunday morning with a 10-minute warm-up session prior to the final qualifying taking place just before the lunch break, which will set the rest of the field for the prestigious trophy race. The green flag for the 2007 FormulaCar Magazine CanAm Cup is scheduled to wave at approximately 2:00 p.m. E.T. |
 BRIAN GRAHAM RACING CAPTURES 2007
TITLE WITH MARCELLIBARRIE, ONT. (Sptember 17, 2007) – Brian Graham Racing completed its 2007 Ontario Formula Ford Challenge season with a championship over the weekend (September 15-16) at Mosport International Raceway, as Kyle Marcelli captured the Formula Ford title with a runner-up finish in the final race of the season. Marcelli entered the doubleheader event at Mosport needing a strong outing, having just recently relinquished the championship lead, which he had held since the opening race at Shannonville, in the last event due to a driveshaft failure. Showcasing why he is is considered a rising talent in Canadian open-wheel racing, the recently crowned 2007 Ontario Formula Ford Challenge Rookie of the Year finished a very close second in both races of the season-finale doubleheader, earning the 2007 title. "We had a plan this weekend and stuck to it," commented Team Owner Brian Graham. "I have no doubt Kyle could have really gone for the wins, but we raced thinking of the big picture. He is a remarkable young talent and will go a long way with the right support." In addition to Marcelli capturing the title, Brian Graham Racing pilot Ryan White finished third in Round 12 on Sunday, earning his first series podium. "Ryan continues to get better with each race," added Graham. "We are excited about the future with him He will become a regular on the podium." Joining the team over the weekend was series rookie Caitlin Johnston. Following an engine failure in her regular car in Saturday's race, she rented a ride with BGR in Sunday's race. Impressing everyone on with how quickly she got up to speed, she set her personal best time after a limited number of laps in the Brian Graham Racing Van Diemen. Unfortunately, Johnston was caught up in a turn one incident with a spinning car, ending her race prematurely. "Caitlin did a very good job with little time in the car," stated Graham. "I think she will be someone to watch next season. "I am proud of our team and what we have done this season," added Graham. "I really have to thank Quicksilver Race Engines for the great power and awesome reliability all year, as ell as the support from Mobil 1. The Brian Graham Racing team returns to action in two weeks time, taking part in the second annual FormulaCar Magazine CanAm event, September 29-30, at Mosport International Raceway. |
 BRIAN GRAHAM RACING OFFERS
RACE SIMULATION TESTBARRIE, ONT. (Sptember 10, 2007) – Ontario Formula Ford Challenge race winners Brian Graham Racing have announced a season-ending test day for up-and-coming karters and potential 2008 drivers. Brian Graham Racing, as part of its ongoing campaign to develop and train drivers as they move up the motorsports ladder, has organized a private test day on Monday, October 8th. Utilizing the Mosport Driver Development facility, the all day test will consist of a driver fitting and a race weekend simulation, involving a practice, qualifying session and full-race race distance run in one of three BGR prepared Van Diemens. In addition to the in-car experience, those participating will debrief with the team driver coaches and lead engineer following each session. Brian Graham Racing pilot Kyle Marcelli, who currently lies second in the Ontario Formula Ford Challenge standings with three wins, eight pole positions and two new lap records, will also be on hand offering analysis and support. Based in Barrie, Ont., Brian Graham Racing has been in operation since in 1998. A leading open-wheel prep shop, the team has won several races throughout North America, including the CASC Championships in Canada and finishing on the podium at the prestigious SCCA National Championship Runoffs. In 2006, BGR contested races in the Cooper Tires Formula Ford 2000 Championship, CASC Ontario Region Championship and the Ontario Formula Ford Challenge, helping Andrew Hall capture the Rookie of the Year award. Currently Brian Graham Racing operates a multi-car team in the Ontario Formula Ford Challenge. Those interested in taking part in the upcoming test should contact Brian Graham at (705) 792-0096 or via email at brian.bgr@rogers.com The 2007 Ontario Formula Ford Challenge season concludes this coming weekend, September 15-16, with a pair of races at Mosport International Raceway. Entering the season-finale doubleheader Matt White leads Marcelli in both the Brian Stewart Award and A Class championships. |
 UP AND DOWN WEEKEND FOR MARCELLIBARRIE, ONT. (August 15, 2007) – 17 year-old race car driver Kyle Marcelli continued to impress race fans this past weekend with another pair of pole positions and finishing one race on the podium, in second. The team participated in the Friday test sessions and it was obvious very early on that team owner and engineer Brian Graham had the best possible setup under Marcelli as he sat atop the times sheets for most of the day. Saturday, Marcelli grabbed the pole position for race one by using some strategy. Encountering traffic early, and being unable to get a clear lap he came to pit road, saved his tires and waited for the right opportunity. He would head back on track late in the session and set the fastest time with only minutes remaining in the session. This would be Marcelli’s seventh pole position of the year. Race one was a real thriller. Marcelli held the lead early, but a few laps in had two of the cars draft by on the long Mosport back straightaway, relegating him to third. A full course caution came out shortly thereafter and when the race went back to green there were only two laps left. Marcelli, still in third, closed up under the gearbox of the No. 5 car, his closest rival for the championship. He would make a daring move into corner nine, much to the delight of the fans in attendance. He finished the race in second. That set the stage for Sunday’s events. Marcelli continued to showcase his ability to squeeze the maximum amount of speed out of his Brian Graham prepared Van Diemen and once again grabbed the pole position – his eighth of the season. Shortly before race time the skies opened up and it began to pour. Having never actually driven a formula car in the wet, Marcelli looked forward to the new challenge. He led into the first corner but relinquished it at corner two, in search of grip on the extremely wet surface. The caution flag flew once again for cars stuck in a dangerous position after spinning. Marcelli used the pace laps to search for grip on the track and was ready to go for the re-start. His car however was not. Shortly after the re-start the half-shaft gave out, making it impossible to continue as the car had no drive and forcing him to watch the race from pit row. “I was really disappointed,” said a dejected Marcelli. “Not just for myself but for the whole team. These guys work so hard on these cars and they deserved a good finish.” The DNF will hurt slightly in the points, but he is still one of the favourites to win the championship. The next race for Marcelli and his Brian Graham Racing Team is the BEMC Indian Summer Trophy weekend, September 15- 16, again at the famed Mosport road course. Kyle Marcelli wishes to acknowledge the support of the following companies. Trudel & Sons Roofing Ltd, Lafarge, ReMax Keswick’s Norm and Shirley MacDonald, Axiom Powdercoating, MG Homes, NBX Action Sports and Alpinestars. |
BRIAN GRAHAM RACING ROOKIE WINS FIRST
OFFC RACE AT CALABOGIE BARRIE, ONT. (August 5, 2007)
– Professional racecar driver Kyle
Marcelli is on the fast-track to superstardom as he continues to
impress in the Ontario Formula Ford Championship driving for Brian
Graham Racing. Marcelli recently competed in the inaugural Ted Powell Memorial Trophy races at the beautiful Calabogie circuit, located just outside of Ottawa. Arriving Thursday, Marcelli had the opportunity to tour the new facility and was impressed with the layout of the circuit. “It looks fast and has a lot of elevation changes which makes it interesting. It’s definitely a world class track,” said Marcelli. Friday testing went well as the Brian Graham Racing prepared Van Diemen proved to be quick and ran flawlessly, allowing the teenager to concentrate on learning the circuit and finding the speed necessary for a good qualifying session. He spent most of the day at the top of the time sheets. Saturday went equally as well. In qualifying, Team Owner Brian Graham held Marcelli in the pits for a minute or two to give him room to make some flyer laps. Marcelli went on track and did 5 laps, posting the fastest time and was brought to pit road to conserve the tires for race one later that afternoon. Marcelli’s confidence was up as he sat on the pole by over one-half of a second. At the drop of the green ha had a clean start and set about distancing himself from the rest of the field. He would win the race by eight seconds at the drop of the chequered flag. “I really have to thank my mechanic Adam Pitts and Team Owner/Engineer Brian Graham for giving me such an unbelievable car today," commented Marcelli. "It was so consistent and neutral throughout the entire race and I was able to make the most of it.” On Sunday Marcelli picked up where he left off and grabbed the pole position – his sixth of the season. The race itself was a much more hard fought affair. The overnight rain had changes the track slightly and it affected the car somewhat. He maintained the lead heading into corner one with Matt White right on his tail. Marcelli was struggling to come to put the car exactly where he wanted it but did manage to lead every lap until the second last. Exiting corner 11, White struck the right rear of Marcelli’s car and sent him around. He would return to the track in third position, but with enough damage to the suspension that he could not mount a charge to get back to the lead. “I am really frustrated at the way that race ended," a dejected Marcelli commented after the race. "It is unfortunate that the race had to be won by taking out the leader. Overall the Brian Graham Racing Team and I proved to be the quickest all weekend long and walk out of here with two pole positions, a win and a third, not too bad really.” Marcelli leaves Calabogie still leading the Rookie of the Year standings but more importantly is still in the lead for the Brian Stewart championship which will be rewarded with a test in an Indy Pro series car in Homestead, Florida. Next up for Marcelli is the famed Mosport circuit, August 11-13. |
| MARCELLI WOWS MOSPORT FANS WITH TWO
THRILLING FINISHESBARRIE, ONT. (June 17, 2007)
– 17 year-old racing star Kyle
Marcelli
continues to thrill racing fans and impress industry insiders as he
nabbed another pair of impressive finishes in the Ontario Formula Ford
Championship doubleheader at the famed Mosport International Raceway
this past weekend. He would finish fourth on Saturday and start from
the pole position on Sunday, to finish second. Marcelli quickly got up to speed on the Friday test day. There were only three sessions for the young driver to learn the twists, turns and hills of Mosport’s 10 turn course but he was at or near the time sheets the entire day. “I am really enjoying my first visit here,’ said the Barrie native. “It has so much history and the course is so challenging to drive, even by yourself with no other cars around that I am really having a lot of fun.” Saturday Marcelli qualified fourth, a good starting spot for the rookie. He made spots early and would spend the balance of the race swapping positions back and forth with his competitors. He was as high as 2nd at one point and learned how important the draft is at this high-speed course eventually finishing the race in fourth. That set the stage for Sunday’s events. With three additional sessions under his belt and a night to think about it, Marcelli continued to showcase his ability to get to grips quickly with new challenges and grabbed the pole position – his 3rd of this short season. A titanic battle with OFFC Champion Shane Jantzi ensued to the delight of the thousands of fans in attendance. They went side-by-side through many of the fastest corners of the circuit, touching wheels at one point and swapping the lead back and forth. Jantzi would eventually hold the lead for the last few laps, grabbing the checkered flag with the young rookie right behind. “That was one of the greatest races I have ever had,” said Marcelli. “Shane is an awesome driver, with so much experience and I learned a lot from him today. He is so smooth and I had so much confidence in him that I was not nervous about going wheel-to-wheel with him. I can’t wait until we race again.” Marcelli’s Brian Graham prepared, Trudel & Son’s Roofing sponsored Van Diemen performed flawlessly all weekend. “I can’t thank the guys at BGR enough for all the hard work they put in each weekend. My car is always fast and is the coolest looking car on the grid so it’ a thrill for me to drive for them.” Marcelli’s performance this weekend assures the youngster leaves Mosport firmly in front of the Championship points lead and the Rookie of the Year honour as well. His next event will be the BARC Canada Day weekend at Mosport – June 30 and July 1. Kyle Marcelli wishes to acknowledge the support of the following companies. Trudel & Sons Roofing Ltd, ReMax Keswick’s Norm and Shirley MacDonald, Axiom Powdercoating, MG Homes, NBX Action Sports and Alpinestars. |
MARCELLI IMPRESSES IN MONTREAL BARRIE, ONT. (June 12, 2007)
– Rising star Kyle Marcelli
endured a
tough, character building weekend to finish ninth in the Formula Ford
support race this past weekend in Montreal. Fresh off his two dominant wins in the Ontario Formula Ford Challenge and the announcement of new sponsor Trudel & Son’s Roofing, Marcelli was looking forward to racing in front of the tens of thousands of rabid race fans and Grand Prix teams. He rolled into town on Wednesday and was fortunate to have ex-Formula 1 and Champ Car driver Derek Daly help with his preparation for the weekend. Daly’s son Conor was Marcelli’s teammate for the second consecutive weekend and both benefited from Daly’s experience, knowledge and industry connections. Marcelli took to the track late Friday in his Brian Graham Racing/Trudel & Son’s Roofing Van Diemen and learned early on how delicate these cars can be. He made a slight mistake coming out of the chicane and touched the wall, damaging his suspension and ending his session early. “I was pushing really hard too early on in the practice session,” said the young rookie. “I was feeling a little pressure with the limited track time and made a mistake. I feel bad for the team but I know what I need to do tomorrow to get my car to the front,” he added. The Brian Graham Racing crew worked late into the night making sure the car was perfect for the early Saturday morning qualifying session. Marcelli impressed again as he put the thoughts of Friday in the back of his mind and went to work learning the track and posting fast times all at once. He ended up sixth at the end of the session and was the highest qualifying rookie. The race featured a standing start, much like the Formula On race, and would end up creating a huge challenge for the young driver to overcome. As Marcelli rolled up to the line and attempted to put the car into first gear the clutch pedal went to the floor. Stranded on the grid, Marcelli waved his arms to alert the other 34 drivers behind that he was unable to move off the line. Fortunately, all of the drivers did an excellent job missing him at the start. The corner workers eventually got him rolling and he set off to catch the field and salvage whatever he could from the weekend. What ensued for the balance of the race may have been even more impressive than a victory. Marcelli crossed the line at the end of the first lap almost ¾ of a lap down on the last place car. Unfazed, Marcelli put his head down and got to work posting incredibly quick lap times and passing an unbelievable 31 cars to bring it home 9th, with the lead group in sight. “I have mixed emotions about my first race at the Grand Prix,” said Marcelli at the conclusion of the race. “I am happy about how I drove today. It could have been a bad situation having to come from so far back but I drove as hard as I could and passed a lot of cars. I am really thankful for all of the hard work my crew put in on the car. We got behind early and they gave me an awesome racecar for Saturday and I look forward to winning some more races with them this season.” Marcelli has no time to reflect on his Grand Prix experience as he prepares for this Father’s Day weekend doubleheader at Mosport in the Ontario Formula Ford Challenge series where he leads the Championship and the Rookie of the Year standings. Kyle Marcelli wishes to acknowledge the support of the following companies. Trudel & Sons Roofing Ltd, ReMax Keswick’s Norm and Shirley MacDonald, Axiom Powdercoating, MG Homes, NBX Action Sports and Alpinestars. |
BRAIAN
GRAHAM RACING LEADS THE WAY IN OFFC OPENER BARRIE, ONT.
(June 5, 2007) - Brian Graham Racing commenced its Ontario
Formula Ford Challenge campaign in fine fashion this past weekend (June
2-3), scoring two wins and three podium finishes. Leading the charge
was series rookie Kyle Marcelli, who won both races at Shannonville
Motorsports Park. Getting an early start to season-opening doubleheader, three of the four Formula Fords competing under the Brian Graham Racing banner took part in Friday testing. Quickly indicating the team would be a force this coming season, Marcelli and Conor Daly, who is taking part select FF1600 races with the team, unofficially posted some of the quickest times of the day. Greg Beresford, making the switch to OFFC, after scoring a championship in the Formula Libre class, used the test day to become further acclimated to his new car. Saturday would the mark the beginning what would ultimately be a very successful weekend of racing. Following a morning practice session, the entire Ontario Formula Ford Challenge field took to the long pro configuration for qualifying. While timing and scoring was unable to provide an official time sheet due to staff problems that would last throughout the weekend, it was agreed Marcelli had posted the fastest time in the session, awarding the youngster his first career pole position. When the race action got underway later in the day he converted his starting position into a flag-to-flag victory, holding off repeated challenges from the 2006 series runner-up Matt White. Not far behind on track, Daly finished fourth in his first career FF1600 start, following a spirited battle with drivers much more experienced than the teenager. The third Brian Graham Racing driver in the A class, Beresford enjoyed a trouble-free first race of the season, finishing just outside the top-10. Racing in the Diamond class for older cars, Ivan Graham finished third in class, earning his first podium finish of the season. Day two of racing at Shannonville witnessed a virtual repeat of performances for the BGR drivers. Marcelli was once again the driver to beat. Starting from the pole position for the second race in a row, after setting the quickest time in qualifying, he lead every lap en route to a comfortable win. Gaining confidence and speed behind the wheel, Daly improved one spot in the race, crossing the stripe in third to join his teammate in the post race celebrations. Beresford's race unfortunately was short affair, as an electrical problem caused his car to come to halt on-course early on. Among the Diamond class competitors, Graham once again finished third, just missing a top-10 overall finish. Exiting the season opening doubleheader, Marcelli leads both the overall and rookie championship standings, while Graham lies third in the Diamond class title chase. Brian Graham Racing now heads to Montreal, where Marcelli and Daly will take part in the Formula Tour 1600 race run in support of the Canadian Formula One Grand Prix on the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal, Que. Rounds Three and Four of the Ontario Formula Ford Challenge will take place June 16-17, at Mosport International Raceway. |
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MARCELLI IMPRESSES IN FORMULA FORD DEBUT  BARRIE,
ONT. CAN. (April
3, 2007) - Brian Graham Racing recently completed
its extensive winter testing program with a very successful trip to
Road Atlanta. With Ontario formula Ford Challenge pilots Kyle Marcelli and Greg Beresford behind the wheels of two BGR prepared Van Diemen's, the team left the famed road course having finished in the points and learned a great deal. Marcelli once again impressed both the team and onlookers with his speed and maturity in the cockpit. Racing against 17 other competitors in the SCCA National event, the teenager earned his second straight SCCA podium finish with a third place result on the OFFC spec Dunlop tires, which are must slower than the racing slicks used by the rest of the field. "It was a very good weekend and once again Kyle never put a wheel wrong," commented team owner Brian graham. "He has great patience and learns with every lap. I am so proud of his performances and the team is gelling nicely." Beresford in his first full race in a Formula Ford, having race in the Formula Libre class the past several years, came home a solid ninth in the competitive field. "We lost the second qualifying session when the clutch failed on the pre-grid, but despite the lack of time in the car he is getting the hang of it," stated Graham. "It is so different to drive than the cars he has been running, but with more testing coming up prior to the start of the season, I am sure he will be right there." Taking a break from on-track activities, Brian Graham Racing is using the month of April to strip and completely rebuilt for the cars ahead of the Ontario formula Ford Challenge season. The newly rebuilt cars, featuring new paint schemes, will be unveiled in early May, with the drivers returning to the track for further testing ahead of the season-opening races, June 2-3, at Shannonville Motorsport Park. In addition to racing the Ontario Formula Ford Challenge, Brian Graham Racing has announced the team will take part in the Formula Tour F1600 race at the Canadian Grand Prix, following the recent confirmation of the event. |
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MARCELLI IMPRESSES IN FORMULA FORD DEBUT  BARRIE,
ONT. CAN. (February 26, 2007)
- Ontario Formula Ford Challenge
rookie Kyle Marcelli recently made his FF1600 debut, scoring a podium
finish. As part of an extensive pre-season testing program, Kyle Marcelli and Brian Graham Racing traveled to Carolina Motorsports Park in South Carolina to race in a SCCA Club Racing National event. Competing in his first-ever Formula Ford race, the talented teenager not only impressed many with his pace, but also finished on the podium with a second place result. This result is particularly noteworthy, given Marcelli's car was fitted with the treaded Dunlop racing tire utilized in Canada, while the rest of the field were on the faster racing slicks. "Although it was a small field we accomplished everything we set out," said Team Owner Brian Graham. "We came down to get some seat time and start a working relationship with Kyle. He exceeded our goals and worked well with his Crew Chief Adam Pitts. His feedback was very good and he quickly got up to speed and never put a wheel wrong the entire weekend. We are now even more excited about the upcoming season!" The 16 year-old Marcelli will return to the cockpit in March, when both he and longtime BGR driver Greg Beresford, who will be making his FF1600 debut after many seasons in a Zetec Fomula Continental and Star Mazda car, will take part in an SCCA Club Racing event at Road Atlanta. The 2007 Ontario Formula Ford Challenge season commences, June 2-3, at Shannonville Motorsports Park. International Raceway. |
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MARCELLI TO RACE IN ONTARIO FORMULA FORD CHALLENGE WITH BGR  BARRIE,
ONT. CAN. (January 23, 2007)
-
Top karter Kyle Marcelli has announced he will compete in the 2007
Ontario Formula Ford Championship with Brian Graham Racing. Marcelli, of Barrie, joins Brian Graham Racing having only begun his car racing career less than a month ago. Seeking to challenge not only for the Rookie of the Year award, but the overall title, the talented youngster will pilot a Brian Graham Racing Van Diemen RF01 in the competitive Ontario Formula Ford Challenge. Joining Marcelli at BGR and racing in the OFFC will be former Ontario Formula Libre Champion Greg Beresford and a third full-time driver to be announced shortly. The 17 year-old, having enjoyed a very successful career in karting, will not only race in the Ontario formula Ford Challenge in 2007, but get behind the wheel of various other open-wheel cars in order to gain valuable in-car experience. Currently Marcelli is schedule to pilot a Formula Ford Zetec car, Formula BMW car and Star Mazda Championship vehicle, in addition to focusing on the OFFC. Based in Barrie, Ont., Brian Graham Racing has been in operation since in 1998. A leading open-wheel prep shop, the team has won several races throughout North America, including the CASC Championships in Canada and finishing on the podium at the prestigious SCCA National Championship Runoffs. In 2006, BGR contested races in the Cooper Tires Formula Ford 2000 Championship, CASC Ontario Region Championship and the Ontario Formula Ford Challenge, helping Andrew Hall capture the Rookie of the Year award. Both Marcelli and the rest of the Brian Graham Racing squad will commence pre-season testing shortly, in preparation for the season-opener, June 2-3, at Mosport International Raceway. |
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BERESFORD ENDS FORMULA LIBRE CAREER AS CHAMPIONSHIP RUNNER-UP  BARRIE, ONT. CAN.
(October 20, 2006) - Greg
Beresford recently completed a successful
CASC-Ontario Region season, finishing second in the Formula Libre class
driving Brian Graham Racing.
Beresford entering his fourth season of Formula Libre competition was confident he could once again challenge for the title driving BGR prepared Star Mazda car. The reigning series champion, Beresford did just that, winning numerous times over the course of the 2006 season. Unfortunately due to work commitments, Beresford missed two races, which would prove costly in the final point standings. Upon completion of the nine-event season, Beresford finished second in the standings, approximately two race wins adrift of the champion. "As expected Greg was quick all season long and likely would have won the championship had he not missed the one event," stated Team owner Brian Graham. "Greg has progressed a great deal as a driver over the past few years and I think he will perform very well next year racing in the OFFC."With the 2006 season now complete, preparations have already begun for the upcoming 2007 season. Beresford has elected to switch racing classes for the upcoming season, leaving Formula Libre and joining the competitive Ontario Formula Ford Challenge. Continuing to race for Brian Graham Racing, the Waterloo, Ont., native will pilot a Van Diemen chassis and be part of a multi-car BGR effort in the championship. |
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HALL WINS ONTARIO FORMULA FORD CHALLENGE ROOKIE OF THE YEAR  BARRIE, ONT. CAN. (October
4, 2006) - Brian Graham Racing driver Andrew Hall captured the Ontario
Formula Ford Challenge Rookie of the Year championship this past
weekend at Mosport International raceway.
Entering the season-final doubleheader, which was run in conjunction with the first-ever FormulaCar Magazine CanAm Cup, Hall was leading the Rookie standings by a narrow margin. After an eighth place finish in the opening race of the doubleheader, the Rookie Championship came down to Round 14, the FCM CanAm Cup. Qualifying a season-best fourth, the young driver from Ottawa drove a splendid final race of the season. Hall in his Van Diemen RF00 challenged for the race lead early on, running with the lead pack of five cars throughout the opening half of the 15-lap race. Coming under intense pressure in the closing stages of the race, the up-and-coming driver lost the draft from the lead pack of cars. Continuing to attack the fast road course until the checkered flag, Hall crossed the stripe in fifth place. In doing so, Hall captured the Rookie of the Year championship in the Ontario Formula Ford Challenge. "It was a great event and we are pleased to have helped Andrew clinch the Rookie title," commented Team owner Brian Graham. "We have been struggling to convert our qualifying pace into the races, but on Sunday Andrew stepped up to the challenge. Now we will work on our winter testing program with the expectation of returning next season and challenging for the overall championship." Brian Graham Racing will enter two-cars in 2007, with regular team driver Greg Beresford joining Hall in the Ontario Formula Ford Challenge. Driving a Van Diemen chassis, Beresford will join the OFFC after contesting the Canadian Automobile Sport Clubs - Ontario Region Formula Libre class the past five years, winning the championship in 2005. Brian Graham Racing will begin its winter testing program shortly, running both in Canada and in the Southern U.S. |
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BRIAN GRAHAM WORKS WITH WORLD CHALLENGE TEAM  BARRIE, ONT. CAN. (September 10, 2006) - Brian
Graham Racing team owner Brian Graham recently worked with Autosport
Designs Racing at the Labour Day Weekend Grand Prix of Mosport.
Competing in the very competitive SCCA Pro Racing World Challenge GT
Championship, Autosport Designs Racing asked Graham to join the team as
mechanic for Round Eight of the 2006 season. Working alongside regular
Brian Graham Racing crewmember Adam Pitts, Graham assisted the team in
preparing and running the Aston Martin DB9 cars of Tom Papadopoulos and
Johnny Mowlem.
Overcoming an incident prior to the race and extremely tricky wet conditions at the high-speed road course, Papadopoulos finished a season best seventh in Round Eight, while Mowlem finished 11th. "It was a great weekend," commented Graham. "The cars are stunning and once you get under the fenders they are very much like open-wheel cars. The Autosport Designs team are a group of great guys and it was a pleasure to work with them." Impressed with both Graham and Pitts' efforts during the weekend, the team has asked the duo to join the team at season-finale, October 21-22, at the famed Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca track in Northern California. Brian Graham Racing returns to action, September 16-17, when it will contest the Ontario Formula Ford Challenge and the CASC Ontario Region Formula Libre at Mosport International Raceway. |
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BRIAN GRAHAM RACING TESTS VELLA AND MURDOCH  BARRIE, ONT. CAN. (March 3, 2006) - Using the
recent run of nice weather in Ontario to full advantage, Cooper Tires
Formula Ford 2000 Championship team Brian Graham Racing recently
conducted a full-day of testing at Shannonville Motorsport Park.
Canadians Ryan Vella and Duncan Murdoch took part in the test , driving a Formula Ford 2000 Zetec powered car for the first time. Returning to the cockpit after a brief hiatus, Vella wasted little time get comfortable in the car. Getting quicker as the day went on and changes were made to suit his driving style, Vella logged more 125 miles during the one-day test. "It was a very productive day," said Team Owner Brian Graham. "I was quite pleased with Ryan's pace during the test, he posted some quick laps. I have no doubt that Ryan has the ability to run up front and we are working hard to strike a deal too give him that opportunity." Out of racing for the past 10 years, Murdoch recently got the itch to go racing again. Originally looking at returning to the Formula Ford class, where he was front-runner in both Ontario and Quebec, Murdoch fell in love with the F2000 Zetec car during the test. Murdoch became more and more comfortable in the car as the test progressed, turning some quick laps at the end of the day. "Duncan is a good friend whom I enjoyed racing with in the past," commented Graham. "It took him a few sessions and a few spins, but he still knows how to get a car around the track. For a guy who has been out of it for a while, he did a great job. After the first few runs he did not stop smiling the entire day, he posted some good laps by day's end and who knows maybe we will see him in the Master's class at some point this season." In addition to running the two drivers, the test marked the first time Marshall Aiken worked with the team. The Founder and Owner of 2005 Cooper Tires Formula Ford 2000 Champions Aiken Racing, Aiken will work with Brian Graham Racing throughout the coming season. A talented Data Acquisition Specialist, Aiken will also provide insights and experience to the team as it enters second year of Cooper Series competition. "The test went well," said Aiken. "I was impressed by how consistent Ryan could run. He improved throughout the day and did everything we asked him to do. I think Ryan could definitely run in the top-10 right away and with some more time fight for race wins." Back at race headquarters in Barrie, Ont., Can, Brian Graham Racing is continuing preparations for the upcoming season, while continuing to look for funded drivers to contest the entire 2006 season. The Cooper Tires Formula Ford 2000 Championship gets underway May 12-13, at Road Atlanta. Racing alongside the Champ Car World Series at four events, Brian Graham Racing will race on home soil twice, when the Cooper Series travels to the Molson Grand Prix of Toronto, July 8-9, and The Labour Day Weekend Grand Prix of Mosport, September 2-3. |
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AIKEN JOINS BRIAN GRAHAM RACING  BARRIE,
ONT.
CAN. (March 3, 2006) - Further developing as a leading race prep shop
and team, Brian Graham Racing has announced the hiring of Marshall
Aiken.
Joining the Canadian based Cooper Tires Formula Ford 2000 Championship team at race events, Aiken will be the Data Acquisition Specialist for Brian Graham Racing. In addition to data acquisition, Aiken will provide BGR with race setups used by nine-time winner and 2006 champion Jay Howard. "I am very pleased to have Marshall [Aiken] joining the team," said Team Owner Brian Graham. "Marshall's knowledge of data acquisition is superb and compliments my areas of expertise. Working with the setups used on Jay's [Howard] car last year, I believe we will be quick right from the start." A leading team owner in his own right, Aiken owns and operates Aiken Racing. Making its professional debut in 2004, the team raced in the Cooper Tires Formula Ford 2000 Championship the past two years. Featuring a two-car effort, Aiken Racing captured both the driver and team championships last year, with Howard setting a single-season record for wins. Following the completion of the season, Aiken chose to refocus the team’s efforts on amateur club racing. Based in Barrie, Ont., Brian Graham Racing has been in operation since in 1998. Racing in both the Formula Ford and Formula Continental classes, the team has won several races throughout North America, including winning the CASC Championships in Canada and finishing on the podium at the prestigious SCCA National Championship Runoffs. Continuing to seek drivers for the upcoming season, Brian Graham Racing is currently preparing its two cars for the start of the 2006 Cooper Tires Formula Ford 2000 Championship season, May 12-13, at Road Atlanta. |
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BRIAN GRAHAM RACING ANNOUNCES TEST FOR OFFC CHAMPION
A leading open-wheel prep shop in Canada, BGR will offer up 1/2 day testing to Class A Champion (cars built prior 1984) and Class B (cars built 1984 and 1973). Tentatively scheduled for the late fall, the champions will drive one of BGR's two Zetec powered Cooper Tires Formula Ford 2000 Championship cars. In addition to testing the class winners, BGR will also test 2005 Class A Champion Shane Jantzi. Due to inclimate weather and schedule conflicts, Jantzi only completed three laps in a previously awarded test. "I'm happy to test the 2006 Ontario Champions," said Team Owner Brian Graham. "The series features some great drivers and has continued to grow and I believe it is worth supporting. "Things didn't work at Shane's test last year, so I wanted to give him a proper test," added Graham. "He is a very talented driver, so I look forward to seeing what he can do in the test." Based in Barrie, Ont., Brian Graham Racing has been in operation since in 1998. Racing in both the Formula Ford and Formula Continental classes, the won several races throughout North America, including winning the CASC Championships in Canada and finishing on the podium at the prestigious SCCA National Championship Runoffs. Returning to the Cooper Series for a second year of competition, BGR is currently seeking additional drivers to run the 2006 season. Commencing June 3-4, the Ontario Formula Ford Challenge will feature 14 races in 2006. Racing at Mosport International Raceway and Shannonville Motorsports Park, the season will conclude with the inaugural FormulaCar Magazine CanAm Cup. Featuring the top Formula Ford drivers from Ontario, Quebec and the Northeastern United States, the CanAm Cup is expected draw over 50 cars. |
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BRIAN GRAHAM RACING OFFERS FREE FORMULA FORD ZETEC TEST BARRIE, ONT.,
CAN. (January 5, 2005) - Brian Graham Racing has For the second consecutive year, Barrie based Brian Graham Racing is providing a free test to the Ontario F1600 Challenge champion. Driving a 160 horsepower Formula Ford Zetec Van Diemen RF01, Jantzi will receiving technical feedback and coaching throughout the test on the 2.459-mile road course. "I'm very pleased to provide Shane with the opportunity to test a Formula Ford Zetec car," said team owner Brian Graham. "Over the past few years Shane has developed into a championship winning driver. I'm looking forward to working with him and getting his impressions of the Zetec car. I'm sure he'll be quick." As a family run team, Jantzi contested 10 of the 11 rounds of the Ontario F1600 Challenge in 2004. Driving a 1998 Van Diemen, Jantzi won six races and finished on the podium in all 10 races. The championship is Jantzi's second in three years, after finishing as runner-up in 2003. A leading open-wheel race prep shop in Canada, Brian Graham Racing has been in operation since in 1998. Building on its success as a Formula Ford race winner and champion, the team has recently expanded to a four-car effort. Racing throughout North America, the team is scheduled to contest races in the Formula Ford Zetec Championship, Star Mazda Series, Ontario F1600 Challenge Series, as well Canadian Automobile Sport Clubs and Sports Car Club of America events in 2005. Busy preparing for the upcoming season, Brian Graham Racing is currently seeking additional drivers. |
| CANADIAN SCORES IMPRESSIVE TOP-10
FINISH AT PRESTIGIOUS SCCA VALVOLINE RUNOFFS
LEXINGTON,
OHIO (September 20, 2003) -Brian
Graham, of Barrie, Ont., Starting
10th, Graham, got a great start, using
the outside line to move up two positions. Battling the top amateur
Formula Ford drivers in North America, Graham set about continuing his
push towards the front in his No. 44 Brian Graham Racing Swift DB-6
Ford. With the tires up to optimal racing temperatures, Graham became
involved in an epic fight for position. Using a good handling car,
Graham was able to move up one position midway through the 20-lap race.
At the checkered flag, Graham had captured an impressive eighth place
finish, the best Canadian in the field. Winning his second SCCA Formula
Ford National Championship at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course was Know as the Olympics of Motorsports, the SCCA Valvoline Runoffs features the best amateur drivers in North America competing in 24 race classes. The race winners are awarded a gold medal and named the SCCA National Champion. Previous National Champions include Jimmy Vasser, Mark Donohue and Paul Newman. Racing out of the SCCA Southeast Division, Graham qualified for the Runoffs after running only five races. Finishing second in the division point standings, Graham won twice (Road Atlanta and Carolina Motorsport Park) and finished second three times. In addition, Graham set three fastest laps and captured two pole positions. Just prior to the Runoffs, Graham competed at Mid-Ohio in the SCCA East vs. West Regional, winning both rounds from the pole position. Graham is the owner and race engineer of Brian Graham Racing, a successful race prep shop in Canada. With over 20 years of race experience, the Barrie-based team has contested the Canadian Formula Ford Championship and captured a podium finish at the 2001 Valvoline Runoffs. |
| CANADIAN QUALIFIES 10th AT THE WORLD
RENOWED VALVOLINE RUNOFFS
LEXINGTON, OHIO (September 18, 2003) -Brian Graham, of Barrie, Ont., Can., today qualified 10th for the Formula Ford class in the SCCA Valvoline Runoffs at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. Know as the Olympics of Motorsports, the Valvoline Runoffs features the best amateur drivers in North America competing in 24 race classes. Following one 20-minute practice session on Monday, the Formula Ford class had three 20-minute qualifying sessions during the week. In the first qualifying session on Tuesday, Graham posted a fast time of 1:31.759, 14th quickest. Driving the No. 44 Brian Graham Racing Swift DB-6 Ford, Graham bettered his time by one hundredth of a second on Wednesday, to move into 13th position on the provisional grid. In final qualifying session on Thursday, the Canadian significantly improved his time, posting a fast lap of 1:31.081, to start 10th for Sunday's race. Racing out of the SCCA Southeast Division, Graham qualified for the Runoffs after running only five races. Finishing second in the division point standings, Graham won twice (Road Atlanta and Carolina Motorsport Park) and finished second three times. In addition, Graham set three fastest laps and captured two pole positions. Just prior to the Runoffs, Graham competed in the SCCA East vs. West Regional at Mid-Ohio, winning both rounds from the pole position. Graham is the owner and race engineer of Brian Graham Racing, a successful race prep shop in Canada. With over 20 years of race experience, the Barrie-based team has contested the Canadian Formula Ford Championship and captured a podium finish at the 2001 Valvoline Runoffs. The 20-lap Formula Ford class race at the 40th annual Valvoline Runoffs will start at 4:15 p.m., Saturday, September 20, 2003. |
BARRIE, ONT. CAN. (February
2, 2006) - Brian Graham Racing today announced it would provide a free
test to champions in the newly renamed Ontario Formula Ford Challenge.
