Champ Car Stars announce regional programs INDIANAPOLIS, IN - The Champ Car Stars of Tomorrow karting series released preliminary 2003 regional championship information today. The regional series serve to support the national series by providing driver training, track time, and support to the karting business infrastructure. "This announcement is the first step in a series of actions to put together a stable, effective regional series over the long term," said Stars' Operations Director Paul Zalud. "A great karting organization isn't made overnight, or with just a single national series. Stars is here for a long time, and our efforts in the regions will help support vibrant karting competition and business." Regional promoters and coordinators reflect a breadth of experience in karting, from Enzo Chiovitti, Tom Johnson, and Sally Mangham in the east to Mike Manning, Tim Holden, Kevin Williams, and George Durbin in the west. As a result of the merger with the WKA/SCCA Constructor's Championship, the WKA will be involved with regions east of the Mississippi, and Stars classes may be included in some of the established WKA series. "It is important that we proceed deliberately and with reasoned decisions," said Zalud. "Time is certainly a factor, but it takes far more time to reverse decisions and correct mistakes rather than making the right ones the first time. We welcome the experience of the WKA and the partnership with Randy Kugler in supporting the regional Stars programs." A regional map with information on the series and coordinators can be found in the Racing section at www.cartstars.com. More regional announcements will be forthcoming as details are finalized. The Champ Car 'Stars of Tomorrow' karting series is the official first level in CART's driver development system and an officially sanctioned series of WKA/SCCA Pro Racing. Founded by racing star Bryan Herta and now owned in conjunction with a group of racing veterans, including three-time CART champion and Indy 500 winner Bobby Rahal, the Stars of Tomorrow serves as the first step for the CART driver development ladder. Stars focuses on recognizing the skills of the drivers rather than the technology development within the machines, using FIA/CIK International standards. More information can be found at www.cartstars.com. Snap-On Incorporated is a leading global developer, manufacturer and marketer of tool and equipment solutions for professional tool users. Product lines include hand tools, power tools, automotive diagnostics and shop equipment, tool storage products, automotive diagnostics software and other solutions for the transportation service, industrial, government, education, agricultural, and other commercial applications, including construction and electrical. Products are sold through its franchise dealer van, company direct sales and distributor and Internet channels. Founded in 1920, Snap-On is a $2+ billion, S&P 500 company headquartered in Kenosha, Wisconsin and employs approximately 14,000 worldwide. More information can be found at www.snap-on.com.