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| Mazda Announces 2009 MX-5 Cup Series Enhancements |
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IRVINE, Calif. (Feb. 26, 2009) - While the economy is making life challenging for racers at all levels, Mazda is showcasing its dedication to the MAZDASPEED Motorsports Driver Development ladder with continued support of key series, including the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup.
Mazda announced several key enhancements to the MX-5 Cup series at its annual pre-season media gathering in Irvine.
Mazda is increasing the contingency payout for the 2009 MX-5 Cup series. The top three positions will receive an additional $500 per event in 2009. First place in each race will now pay $5,000, second place is good for $3,500, and third place is now $2,500. Prize money is paid to the top 20 finishers in each race.
To encourage teams and drivers to enter and compete in all 10 race events in 2009, Mazda is happy to announce an entry fee incentive. Mazda will cover the entry fee for the final two events (Rounds Nine and 10) at Virginia International Raceway (VIR), if that car is entered, and competes, in each of the first eight events.
A new Playboy MX-5 Cup Team Championship Trophy will be awarded at the end of the 2009 season. Single and multi-car teams will have an equal shot at the championship. The championship trophy will be awarded to the team with the highest number of points at the end of the year. Total year-end points for single car teams will be calculated using total points and averaging by number of events in which the car participated.
For multi-car teams, the total year-end points will be calculated as above. Total average points for each team car will be divided by number of team cars.
In addition, a series Rookie of the Year will be recognized in 2009.
The latest enhancements have MX-5 Cup teams enthusiastic and eager for the 2009 season to commence.
"Our outlook is great for the upcoming year, as it is for the Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup, Team MER Owner Shannon McMasters said. When other race series are shrinking and struggling, I feel 2009 could be the strongest yet for this series. With the economy as it is, people still want to race and the affordable MX-5 Cup is flourishing. Competition will be tight, the racing will be exciting and Team MER means to be a factor every time. With nearly a full driver lineup, Team MER is still looking for a few drivers to join the team with the best track record!"
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