TOYOTA TEAMS WITH TONY HUNT FOR 2008


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Oct 10, 2008

Source: Tony Hunt Media Relations
Date: 01/27/2008

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ROCKLIN, California -- Tony Hunt, five-time USAC driving champion, will be teamed with Toyota for the 2008 racing season. Driving the Alan Kaiser sprint car – Hunt has aligned himself with Toyota Racing Development (TRD) in competition for the USAC Western Sprint Car championship. The Toyota 360 Sprint Car engine is a derivative of the eight-cylinder Toyota engine previously used in NASCAR Busch and Craftsman Truck Series competition.

“The combination is a natural fit for Hunt who has long been supported by Thompson’s Toyota dealership in Placerville, Calif., Said Gary Reed, Vice President of Special Racing Projects for Toyota, “We are fortunate to have Tony as a part of our 2008 sprint car motor program. Tony's success in the USAC Western Sprint Car Series will give us added experience to create a winning formula. His support of one of our Toyota dealers allows us to connect with the consumer while we continue to grow in short track racing.”

Hunt’s first race in the Toyota powered sprint car will be at Roseville California’s All-American Speedway on April 12, 2008. The car will be campaigned in Nevada, Idaho, Utah, and Southern California as well. But the Roseville race will be special for Hunt who lives in nearby Lincoln, CA.

“To start our season in the Roseville-Sacramento area is very exciting. Many of our supporters reside in the area and Sacramento has a huge draw of sprint car fans. Having the All-American Speedway as one of our series venues will complement our local sponsors”, Said Hunt.

Among Hunt’s biggest fans is sponsor Ron Thompson, the Owner of Thompson’s Toyota of Placerville, Ca. Thompson has backed sprint car racers for many years. “We are proud to be a part of Tony’s racing program. His professionalism and on-track performance exemplifies what we represent within our dealership. Tony's relationship with TRD enhances our continued involvement in the local racing scene and we’re excited to be associated with Toyota's racing program.”

Sam Bailey of Bailey Brothers, a prominent Northern California engine builder will be maintaining the Toyota engines throughout the season.

May will bring Hunt back to Indiana for the annual Little 500 sprint car race at Anderson Speedway. A Toyota engine will accompany Hunt in the 60th running of the prestigious Memorial Day weekend event.

For more information on Tony Hunt – please visit www.TonyHunt.com ####