The Inside Track

    Stars of Tomorrow amends age provisions for competitors

    HILLIARD, OH - The Champ Car Stars of Tomorrow karting series has, with the authorization of the Commission Internationale de Karting (CIK), amended the provisions concerning age of competitors in various classes. This step was taken to address the emergent issues of new opportunities to move into cars at an earlier age and the size of some junior competitors affecting performance.

    "As a professional racing series, we need to stay competitive and provide full opportunity for our racers," said Stars Director of Operations Paul Zalud. "Other series, both at the karting and car levels are providing options to racers at earlier ages. Since we run in accordance with CIK regulations, we are somewhat constrained by their directives. The CIK agrees with us that certain provisions need to be made for issues such as these."

    The following wording will be included in the competition regulations for Stars of Tomorrow:

    "Competition age" for all classes is defined by the actual age attained by July 1 of the competition year in question. If the competitor meets or will meet minimum age requirements for the class by this date, he may choose to compete in this class from the beginning of the season. Once a driver competes in a more senior class, he may not again compete in any more junior class.

    Supplement to and excepting this rule is the condition of a driver who will attain minimum age by December 31 of the competition year in question AND who has finished in the top three of a national level event in Stars of Tomorrow, the World Karting Association, Superkarts! USA, and the International Karting Federation. Competitors meeting this criteria may also compete in a more senior class for the entire year. Competitors wishing this exception must apply to and submit evidence of accomplishments to the Stars of Tomorrow national licensing board for consideration. Similarly to above, once this driver competes in a more senior class, he may not again compete in any more junior class.

    Under no circumstances may any competitor who has not actually attained the age of five-years-old compete in any Stars of Tomorrow regional or national event.

    Drivers who wish to apply for this exception should contact Paul Zalud at (425) 672-8806 or include a letter stating their request for exception with suitable evidence with their membership or race entry forms.

    The Snapon.com 'Stars of Tomorrow' karting series is the official first level in Champ Car's driver development system and an officially sanctioned series of WKA/SCCA Pro Racing. Founded by Herta and now owned in conjunction with a group of racing veterans, including Rahal, the Stars of Tomorrow serves as the first step for the Champ Car 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.

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June 5, 2003