Latest Sponsor Change-ups: Schreffler to Serpent, Hofer Joins Reedy, More

We are almost 6 months into 2013 and driver deals are still being announced.  Check out the latest sponsorship news below:

Matt Schreffler Joins Team Serpent

Serpent America has joined forces with off-road driver Matt Schreffler.  Matt will be running the Cobra GP buggy and truggy, as well as the Spyder 1/10 2wd buggy that will be introduced in july.

Patrick Hofer Signs With Reedy

Reedy is proud to announce that multi-time Swiss national champion Patrick Hofer has joined the Reedy factory racing team. Hofer will be using Reedy LiPo batteries, Sonic motors, and Reedy nitro engines in his Team Associated vehicles.

Thanks to his extensive racing and testing experience, Patrick will be instrumental in new product development as well as increasing the visibility of the Reedy brand in Europe.

Welcome to the team, Patrick!

Christopher Krapp Extends Contract With Orion

Team Orion is very happy to announce that World Championship finalist, ETS winner and national champion Christopher Krapp extended his contract with Team Orion!

The German talent will continue using VST2 Pro brushless motors, R10 Pro speed controllers and Carbon Pro LiPo batteries in all his cars.

Read what Chrissi has to say about his contract extension:

“I am super happy to have the opportunity to extend my contract for another year with Team Orion! I am using Orion electronics since I started my racing career and they always gave me the best products. I am happy to work with all the guys from Team Orion and to help making the products even better. Thanks for thrusting in me!”

German 1/8 On-Road Top-driver Christian Wurst Back With Serpent

German driver Christian Wurst has decided to return to Serpent. After seeing and then also trying the Serpent Viper 977, the choice was easy !

Christian has raceds Serpent for many years, and its good to see him back with us.

World Champion Extends Contract With Orion

Reigning IFMAR Touring Car World Champion Jilles Groskamp renewed his contract with Team Orion for 2013/2014! The Dutch super star will continue using Team Orion VST2 Pro brushless motors, R10 Pro speed controllers, Carbon Pro LiPo batteries and Advantage Touch chargers.

Groskamp is not “only” winning races with Team Orion products but he is also involved in the product development: his extensive testing and precise feedback is a great help to bringing our products to perfection. Jilles is furthermore an excellent ambassador for our brand and the R/C hobby.

We are looking forward to the continuation of our successful collaboration with the current World Champion and friend Jilles Groskamp!

A Main Hobbies Inks Deal With Multiple Australian Champ Kyle McBride

17-year old, 3-time Australian National Champ Kyle McBride has signed with A Main Hobbies. The young, super-talented McBride will represent ProTek RC and A Main Hobbies along with his current sponsors all over the world. McBride had this to say, “I’m excited to be on a growing team and to represent an international power such as A Main Hobbies and ProTek RC. I will be pushing the brand over here in Australia and look forward to bringing the team many results in the near future and the rest of the 2013 season! I want to thank Marty Korn and the entire A Main Hobbies team for welcoming me!”

“We’re growing as an international brand, and the recent additions of Atsushi Hara, Lee Martin and now Kyle McBride are helping those efforts. Kyle has become so fast, so young it’s exciting to have him aboard our international team. We support a number of great customers in Australia, where I am from, and I’m proud of that.” – A Main Hobbies’ CEO, Kendall Bennett

Bio

• Age – 17 years old
• Hometown – Brisbane, Queensland
• Big Race Wins – 3 x Australian National Champ (Current), 2 x FEMCA Champ (Current), 4th at 2010 IFMAR Worlds, 2011 C-netic Champion. Mutli State Champion here in Australia.
• Current Sponsors – Kyosho, Proline, OS Engines, Amain Hobbies, Protek, Ko Propo, Bitty Design, Upgrade RC
• Favorite RC Class – 1/8th Off-road Buggy
• Next few races he’ll attend –  Bitty-Design race in Pattaya, FEMCA in China, C-netic in Indonesia, 1/10th Off-Road World Championships, Thunder Alley Gas Champs

Lee Martin Joins Team Viper

We are proud to announce that multiple time European and British National Champion Lee Martin will be joining Viper R/C Solutions.  Starting this weekend at the Kidderminster National Lee’s cars will feature Viper products.
Lee is one of the best known racers in world being an A Main Finalist in BRCA, EFRA, and IFMAR events.  After successfully testing our products Lee decided to join the Viper team.  Both parties are excited to develop our relationship and products moving forward.  Look for Lee and Viper products at major events including the IFMAR World Championships later this year.

Anton Gustavsson Joins Serpent

Top-driver Anton Gustavsson joins Team Serpent Cobra  for Cobra gas-powered buggy and  maybe later on also for the Serpent Spyder 2wd 1/10 buggy.

Anton with his 16 year is a great talent and has shown some really good results in the past years.

Together with other young Swedish talent David Hassel we can be sure to see some excellent results in the races, both in Sweden, the Nordics and international.

A Main Hobbies Signs 4-Time European Champion Lee Martin

A Main Hobbies is excited to announce that multi-National and European Champion Lee Martin has joined the A Main Hobbies and ProTek RC racing team. Martin is not only one of Europe’s top racers, but he is also one of the most-respected. Martin’s decorated resume includes 6 national championships, 4 European Championships and 4 IFMAR World Championship finals. You’ll be able to catch Martin racing with his new ProTek RC gear and A Main Hobbies threads at the BRCA National series as well as the EFRA warm-up race.

“We have a lot of great customers in Europe and want to continue growing our presence there. Lee Martin will be an excellent representative for A Main Hobbies and ProTek RC, helping our brand awareness. We will provide him with whatever he needs to succeed at the highest levels of RC racing. The relationship will be beneficial to both of us, and we look forward to having him aboard for the 2013-racing season.” A Main Hobbies’ CEO Kendall Bennett.

“The addition of Lee to our 2013 A Main Hobbies/ProTek R/C team strengthens our presence in the very important European market and will help us to better serve our customers abroad. I trust that Lee will represent our company and products with the utmost professionalism and class. Needless to say we are extremely happy to add Lee to our program.” A Main Hobbies’ Team Manager Marty Korn

“I’m excited at the prospect of joining the most powerful and largest RC shop in the world! The guys at A Main and ProTek RC are always aiming to be the best at what they do and their enthusiasm definitely rubs off onto their drivers. I’m looking forward to taking full advantage of their great products and support for the big up and coming races in 2013!”
Lee Martin

Bio

Age – 28
Hometown – Newbury, England
Big Race Wins – 4-time European Champion, 6-time National Champion, 4-time IFMAR worlds finalist, Italian Job Champion, Pre Worlds 4wd Winner
Current Sponsors – Mugen, Tamiya, Pro-Line, ProTek RC, A Main Hobbies, LMR, BEAT Novarossi, Ultimate Racing, Nitrolux, Muchmore, Live RC.com
Favorite RC Class – 1/8th & 1/10th off road!
Next few races he’ll attend – BRCA National series, EFRA warm up races and WC warm up race at A Main Hobbies’ Silver Dollar RC Raceway.

Photo courtesy of NeoBuggy.net

Ari Bakla continues with XRAY for 2013

XRAY is happy to announce that multiple Australian National Champion Ari Bakla will continue to race with XRAY in 2013 season. Ari has been the main leader of the Australian XRAY team racing in all the classes with great success and countless victories. Ari will continue in 2013 to race with T4, XB9, XT8 & XB4.

Ari’s achievements:

• 11x Australian National Champion
• 30x State Champion
• 2012 4wd EP Offroad National Champion
• 2012 EP Onroad National Champion
• 2012 3rd Place GP Truggy Nationals
• 2012 A-Main Finish GP Buggy Nationals

Keven Hébert Signs Contract Extension With Team Associated And Reedy

Team Associated and Reedy are very happy to announce that Keven Hébert has signed a multi-year contract extension and will continue to race Team Associated’s TC6.1 Worlds, 12R5.2, and 10R5.1. Keven will now be using Reedy Sonic Mach 2 motors in all his vehicles and will continue using Reedy LiPo batteries and LRP Flow Works Team ESCs.

Reedy department manager Rick Hohwart was happy to hear the news of the extension, saying, “Keven is one of the fastest drivers in the world and his input is highly valuable when it comes to developing new products. Not only is a he a great racer, but he is always willing to help fellow racers with questions and feedback regarding setups, gearing, etc.”

Keven was excited about the signing, saying, “I am looking forward to continuing my racing career with AE/Reedy and working closely with the R&D department in the development of new and exciting products. I appreciate the opportunity and look forward to the remainder of 2013 and beyond.”

All of us here at Team Associated and Reedy are excited to continue working with Keven and look forward to many more years of success together.

Josh Wheeler re-signs with XRAY for 2013

XRAY is happy to announce that the US top off-road & truggy driver Josh Wheeler will continue to race with XRAY team in 2013. Josh will race the XB9, XT8 and also in the 1/10 class with the new XB4.

Josh’s achievements:

• Multiple World Championship finalist
• Mutliple USA National Championship finalist
• Futana Nitro Chalenge TQ & winner buggy & truggy
• Neobuggy finalist

Josh says:

“It has been great working with a top notch company like XRAY for many years. I look forward to many more years of great racing and good times with XRAY and the Hudy family. XRAYs commitment to perfection and making the best parts possible has allowed me to chase my dreams and compete with the top drivers in the world. XRAY and the Hudy family works nonstop to provide the best parts and constantly push the RC industry. It is through this dedication that we will hopefully soon get the World Championship we are looking for. I want to say Thank You for all the support and the friendships that have been made. 2013 is going to be the best year yet!”

Josh will in 2013 race at all the major races including:

• 1/10 JConcepts Race Feb 9-10
• 1/8 Dirt Nitro Challenge Feb. 20-24
• 1/8 Psycho Nitro Blast March 21-24
• 1/8 Roar Fuel Offroad Nationals June 12-16
• 1/8 Alabama Manufacturer Shootout June 27-29
• 1/8 Futaba Nitro Challenge, July
• 1/10 Roar 1/10th Offroad Nationals Aug. 8-11
• 1/8 Neobuggy Race Aug 21-25
• 1/10 IFMAR EL Offroad Championships, Chico California Sept. 23-29

Robert Batlle Signs With LRP For 2013

After Carlos Pineda, now also his fellow countryman Robert Batlle chose LRP for his electronics and power. The current 1/8 Offroad World Champion will attend his 2WD and 4WD electric races in 2013 with batteries, motors and speed controls from blue is better.

Spanish reinforcements at LRP! With Robert Batlle, the current 1/8 Offroad World Champion, two times European Champion and 7-times Spanish Champion, joins the LRP team. He relies on LRP power for his 2013 competitions in 2WD and 4WD. His also new Yokomo B-Max2 and B-Max4 receive only the best electronic components: LRP Flow WorksTeam BL speed control, LRP Vector X20 BL motor und LRP LiPo Competition Hardcase battery – an extremely powerful combination that already occupies the worldwide top positions in the Onroad competition.

The cooperation with LRP isn’t new for Robert. He was already able to experience this support especially in Nitro: “I know the company LRP for quite some time as a reliable and innovative partner that supports me anytime – for example during the victory at the World Championships 2012 in Argentina.”

Robert exclusively relies on electronic components from LRP for the coming electric races. He himself comments on this: “To be also successful besides the Nitro world, LRP was the only choice that came in question. They are on top positions worldwide with their motors and speed controls for many years now – what is also my goal for 2013.”

Concluding, Robert would like announce: „I am looking forward to a successful cooperation with new and long-known LRP staffers – especially Andy Krämer, who isn’t totally blameless in my decision due to his totally devoted support in the last years.

We would also like to give a warm welcome you, Robert Batlle!  All the best with LRP for 2013!

Ryan Cavalieri Switches To Team Orion’s Vortex R10 and R8 Pro ESCs

Current IFMAR 2wd & 4wd 1/10 Electric Off-Road World Champion Ryan Cavalieri has made the move to use Team Orion’s Vortex R10 and R8 Pro ESCs beginning March 1st!

Cavalieri has been a valuable asset to Team Orion over the past 7 consecutive years using their Vortex BL Motors, Nitro Engines, Li-Po Batteries, and Chargers. Now with the addition of the Vortex R10 and R8 Pro ESC’s, Ryan has completed the entire product line with Team Orion.

Ryan added, ” I would first like to thank Jurgen and Reto from LRP. They have provided me with great support over the years and have helped me win 3 IFMAR World Championships along with many other races. I would also like to thank Philippe Neidhart, Oscar Jansen, and Joe Pillars for the great continued support of Team Orion Products. Team Orion has been behind me basically from the start of my professional career and it feels great to now run the complete power package.”

Look for Cavalieri to debut his NEW Team Orion Vortex R10 Pro ESC’s (ORI65102) in his Team Associated rides at the Cactus Classic in a few weeks!

Jérôme Treignier re-sings with XRAY for 2013

XRAY is happy to announce that the Canadian vice-champion Jérôme Treignier will continue to race with XRAY team in 2013. Jérôme will race all the off-road categories and all major races in Canada and USA with the XB9, XT8 & XB4 including the 1/10 off-road world championship.

Jérôme says:

“I have been very happy with the work of the team and since I race both in America and Europe it is a real advantage for me to work with both the US and European team. The XRAY’s reactivity, professionalism and dedication are second to none and it is a true pleasure to be part of the team working on the car development. I am confident that with all the talent that we have the customers can expect and enjoy only the best.”

Rico Krober re-signs with XRAY for 2013

XRAY is happy to announce that Rico Krober will continue to race XRAY in 2013. Rico is German champion and multiple European nitro touring championship finalists and will race in 2013 with the NT1 and X12 at all the regional and national nitro touring and pan car series as well at the European Championships.

Rico’s achievements:

• European vice Champion EC B
• 3x European Championship finalists
• 4x German Nationals finalists
• 1x German National Champion

Rico says:

“At first I want to thank Team Xray and SMI for the last 3 very successful years! I must say that I´m proud to be a part of the team and I really enjoy the professional and close collaboration between all the members within the team. For 2013 I´m sure that we can achieve together even more success.”

Futaba Drivers Re-up for 2013 Season

Futaba, one of the world’s most respected manufacturers of R/C radio systems, recently took the first step toward repeating its successful 2012 racing season by re-signing all Team Futaba drivers for the 2013 season. “We were convinced that these drivers represented huge winning potential long before the 2012 season began,” said Team Manager Scott Cramer. “and they proved us right, race after race, event after event. I’m pleased to be working with the guys again, and looking forward to a lot more wins in the future. “To help ensure that, we’re switching all drivers to the 4PKS-R, the most advanced Futaba racing system to date.” Cramer continued. “One reason is that the 4PKS-R is 5% faster than the previous 4PKS system…and that’s a huge advantage at that level of competition. Running Futaba receivers and high-voltage servos only add to it. “I’d like to thank the guys for their contributions in 2012, and wish them the best for this year.” Cramer added.

Team Futaba On-Road Drivers:

• Paul Ciccarello
• Keven Hebert
• Brad Johnson
• Paul Lemieux

Team Futaba Off-Road Drivers:

• Steven Harson
• Ryan Lutz
• Ryan Maifield
• Mark Pavidis
• Chad Phillips
• Dylan Rodroguez
• Richard Saxton
• Carson Wernimont
• Josh Wheeler

Surikarn Chaidajsuriya re-signs with XRAY for 2013

XRAY is proud to announce that the former World Champion Surikarn Chaidajsuriya will continue to race with XRAY in 2013. Surikarn is multiple national champion and multiple winner in different categories in Asia. Surikarn will in 2013 race both 1/10 electric & nitro touring classes as well the 1/8 off-road class and the first race on schedule is TITC.

Surikarn says:

“It is a pleasure to be a part of this Team Xray. The team made a great job with good result on pass year. XRAY works very hard to have the best performing car in each category. That’s what made me decide to stay with the Team Xray. I am really looking forward to focus on Major race in Thailand, and some oversea events for 1/10 Touring Car T4 , NT1 and the 1/8 Buggy XB9. Thank you so much for Team Xray and Asia Model to give me the opportunity to be part of the team in the past several years.”

Alessio Menicucci re-signs with XRAY for 2013

XRAY is happy to announce that Alessio Menicucci has re-signed to race for XRAY in 2013 racing season in the electric touring category. Alessio is a multliple Italian champion in mutliple classes and has been the main force together with Franceso Martini in Italy.

Alessio’s main achievements:

• 2009 UISP Italian Champion
• 2010 UISP Italian Champion,
• 2011 AMSCI Italian Champion
• 2012 UISP Italian Champion
• 2012 AMSCI outdoor Italian Champion
• 2012 AMSCI indoor Italian Champion
• ETS Pro Stock A-Finalist

Alessio says:

” This first year with Team XRAY has been awesome. We are working hard to be faster race after race but we had a lot of fun together at the same time. This feeling is basic to get more and more successes. XRAY products’s quality allowed me to be faster than last year and I’m honorated to have the opportunity to re-sign for the next season. My main goal is to increase my performances for the international races and I’m sure that with Team XRAY I can do it.”

Alessio will race the XRAY T4 in the 2013 at all the major regional, national and internation races including:

• AMSCI and UISP Italian nationals
• ETS race series
• LRP Masters
• European Championship Portugal
• Italian trophies and Club races

Greg Degani Joins Hobby Pro USA / Agama Racing

We would extend a warm welcome to our newest Pro Driver Greg Degani. Greg Degani brings a wealth of knowledge and years of effective racing experience. We are very happy to include Greg Degani and his skills to our growing team and organization. Degani will race our Agama products throughout the United States and beyond in efforts to continue our positive growth in our very competitive industry.

Markku “*HOKE*, THEDoctor” Honkanen Signs With JQ Products

JQ Products are proud to announce the signing of Markku “*HOKE*, THEDoctor” Honkanen to the Finnish JQ Team. Hoke is one of the more legendary RC racers in Finland, earning the nickname, THEDoctor due to his extraordinary car set up talents. He is able to figure out what set up changes to make by merely looking at a car and studying it’s features, resulting in dialed domination on the track, be it dirt, carpet or stone floor. This makes him a perfect candidate to join in the final development phase of THE4WD, JQProducts’ entry into the Electric 10th scale market. He is also a great driver, winning more and more lately, currently leading the Finnish Offroad Winter Series, “Winter Jumps”.

Taylor Petersen Joins XRAY USA Team

XRAY is happy to announce that a top US off-road racer and world championship A main finalist Taylor Petersen joins XRAY USA team. Taylor will race in all the off-road categories and will race the XB9, XT8, 808E and the new XB4.

Taylor’s achievements:

• Multiple US National championship finalist buggy & truggy
• Multiple World Championship finalist
• Motorama TQ + winner
• Silverstate podium finisher

Taylor said, “I would like to thank XRAY & RC America for the opportunity to better my racing career. I look forward to getting to the track and start racing with the team. It is the start of what i hope will be a great relationship together. I’m super excited about the new opportunities they have asked me to pursue with 1/10. The quality of the product was apparent on my first kit build. Can’t wait to hit the track.”

Taylor will in 2013 attend all the main races including:

• Cabin fever- Lewiston Idaho
• Nitro challenge- Arizona
• Silver state- Vegas
• US Nationals- Texas
• Gas champs- Beaumont
• Sidewinder challenge
• Northwest championship tour (4 races)

Mike Truhe Signs With Schepis Racing

Novarossi World Srl has signed a worldwide distribution agreement with Schepis Racing to provide global sales of top car engines range.  Mike Truhe, one of the most popular off road drivers, will use Schepis for nitro racing worldwide.

Max Mört Re-signs With JQ Products

Last year we signed Max to the team after JQ opened his big mouth, read about it HERE. One year later, and we just couldn’t face telling Max it’s over, so we re-signed him. Just kidding. JQ Products looks to the future, and we are looking to help as many juniors as we can, specially ones dedicated to racing and doing the best they can in racing. We hope to start Junior teams in as many countries as we can. Kids are THEFuture!

J.R. Mitch Signs With Trinity

Team Trinity is very proud to announce the signing of JR Mitch of TLR and JConcepts to lead Trinity’s off-road team!

Paul Lemieux re-signs with XRAY for 2013

XRAY is proud to announce that one of the world’s best on-road drivers and the XRAY long time team driver, multi-time US champion in various classes, Paul Lemieux has re-signed to stay in the team for 2013. Exciting news is that Paul will in 2013 get into the off-road racing to race with the new XB4.

Paul’s achievements in the past:

• Multiple World championship finalist
• Multiple ROAR national champion.
• Multiple IIC champion
• Multiple Snowbirds champion,
• Multiple US indoor champion
• Reedy race winner.
• Worlds warm up winner

Paul says:

“I am excited about the continued partnership between myself and the Team XRAY. I am especially excited to continue on with all of individuals that make up the XRAY family as i know it. To me the “work hard but have fun” atmosphere which we have achieved at events around the globe has been the driving force in what keeps me racing. 2012 was possibly the best year of racing that I have had to date, the achievements of winning Snowbirds, 3 national titles in 3 classes and winning the Worlds warm-up definately have given me confidence that all my sponsors commitment to racing and quality is second to none.”

Paul will in 2013 race all the regional, national and international races with XRAY T4, NT1, X12, RX8 and XB4. The busy calendar will include all the US electric and nitro on-road nationals, Snowbirds and the major off-road races.

Donny Lia Signs With Trinity

Big signing for Trinity this weekend at the Snowbirds! Very Proud to announce Donny Lia will now use Trinity motors and Revtech batteries! Welcome Donny!

Martin Bayer re-signs with XRAY for 2013

XRAY is happy to announce that multiple-Czech champion and European championship finalist Martin Bayer will continue to race with XRAY in 2013. Martin has been important member of the R&D team participating at the development and testing of XB9 & XB4.

Martin’s achievements:

• Multiple Czech Champion 1/8 off-road nitro, electro
• Czech Champion 1/10 electro
• Multiple European Championship finalists
• Dirt USA finalists
• Dirt Italy Truggy winner
• Multiple Astra Nitro Cross winner

Cody King Signs With Reds Racing

REDS Racing is pleased to welcome 2010 IFMAR World Champion, Cody King, to the team. Cody had a great showing at the recent 2012 World’s in Argentina, and with his experience, we expect to see the engine line evolve and grow to a whole new level during the next two years. Cody and his dad, Paul, will have a full race schedule and will work closely with Mario Rossi on R&D.

Reno Savoya Re-signs with XRAY For 2013

XRAY is happy to announce that multiple European Champion Reno Savoya has extended the contract with XRAY team for 2013. Reno has been very valuable member of R&D team and works closely with Juraj Hudy on the further development of the XB9.

Reno’s achievements:

• Multiple European Champion
• Multiple French National Champion
• Multiple World Championship finalist

Recent 2012 achievements:

• 2nd at Montpellier GP, France
• 3rd at French National championship 1/8 buggy
• A-main Finalist at Dirt Nitro challenge, USA
• A-main Finalist at Neo buggy challenge, UK
• 4th at European Championship in Fehring, Austria
• C-netic challenge winner in Surabaya, Indonesia
• Sweep challenge winner, Korea
• 4th at WC warm-up, Argentina
• Pierrefeu Grand Prix Winner, France
• Semi finalist at WC, Argentina

Reno says:

“I started to work with the XRAY team back in September ’11. I can’t be more happy and proud of all the hard work we’ve put together in order to develop and increase the performances of the XRAY line. For a long time I was looking for a serious R&D implication and improvement of the products I was working on. It’s unbelievable the capability, both human and technologic, this company enjoy everyday in order to produce the best quality and performance products. At every level, professional driver or basher, we can feel the spirit of racing is in the DNA of the house! I had a wonderful year, with many big achievements, and I’m really looking forward to 2013 to carry on our trustful relationship and push my results up to another level! Like usual, never hesitate to walk around my pit area for a chat, it’s always a pleasure to share set-ups, knowledge and experiences! I would like to take the most of this words to thank everyone at XRAY factory and team for their support!”

In 2013 Reno will race XB9, XT8, 808E and XB4 at regional, national & international races around the world:

11. – 13.1. – Italian Job Padova, 1/8
20. – 24.2. – Dirt Nitro, USA, 1/8
08. – 10.3. – EOS 3, 1/10
23. – 24.3. – French Nats RD1, 1/8
30. – 31.3. – Modelcar challenge, Portugal, 1/8
12. – 14.4. – EOS 4, DE, 1/10
19. – 21.4. – Euros warm-up, 1/10
27. – 28.4. – French Nats RD2, 1/8
11. – 12.5. – French Nats RD3, 1/10
17. – 19.5. – Euros Warmup, 1/8
25. – 26.5. – French Nats RD3, 1/8
08. – 09.6. – French Nats Rd 4, 1/10
15. – 16.6. – BRCA National (R2) Coventry, 1/8
22. – 23.6. – French Nats RD 4, 1/8
29. – 30.6. – BRCA National (R3) Wakefield, 1/8
08. – 13.7. – 1/8 Euros
18. – 20.7. – EC, PT, 1/10
03. – 04.7. – BRCA National (R4) Bromsgrove, 1/8
24. – 25.8. – Neo, UK, 1/8
07. – 08.9. – BRCA 1:8 National (R5) Slough, 1/8
21. – 22.9. – French Nats RD5, 1/8

Pro-Line announces Elliott Boots 2013 Factory Team Driver

“Hey everyone, just wanted to say how good it feels to be back with Pro-Line for the 2013/2014 seasons. I’m really looking forward to getting to know everyone at the factory and working with my teammates. I believe together, as a team, we can accomplish great things. Thanks to everyone at Pro-Line for the support. IT’S GOOD TO BE BACK! ”

– Elliott Boots

Elliott Boots is no stranger to racing and winning with Team Pro-Line having become recognized as super-fast at an early age while under our support. Flash forward to 2013 and it only makes sense he will be on Pro-Line rubber thru the 2014 World Championships. Elliott’s addition to our already robust line-up of drivers is sure to continue to bring World Class results at the track equaling bad news for the competition.

– Tim Clark

Matt Castellano and Mike Truhe re-sign with Team Losi Racing

2008 IFMAR World’s TQ Mike Truhe along with fellow teammate Matt Castellano have re-signed with Team Losi Racing. Truhe will focus on the nitro side of the team piloting the 8IGHT platform to victory while Castellano will focus his racing efforts to the electric side taking the Twenty-Two and TEN-platforms to the podium. “We are excited to have these two great drivers re-sign with the Team,” said Team Losi Racing Team Manager Kevin Gahan. “They exemplify what it means to be a Team Losi Racing driver.”

Rich Lowe Joins X Factory For 2013

X Factory is proud to announce that Long-time U.K. star Rich Lowe has joined the Team for 2013. Active in U.K. racing since the age of 8, Lowe regularly competes in the A main at U.K. Nationals and drove for X Factory in 2011. Rich will be using the X – 6 Squared this year in buggy and will be part of the development team for X Factory’s X – 7 4WD car.

“I look forward to working with the X Factory team once more, everyone’s great and I really like the whole ‘think outside the box’ approach to car design,” said Lowe. “I’m very excited about future developments and can’t wait to get going with my new rides!”

X Factory U.K.’s Darren Boyle added, “We are glad to have Rich back with the Team. He brings a wealth of experience and set-up knowledge, having raced competitively for 20 years. He’s a good Team player and we are privileged to have him once again.”

Atsushi Hara Re-Signs with Team HB x HPI RACING for 2013

Team HB x HPI RACING is pleased to announce that 2012 Triple World Championship Podium Finisher and former World Champion Atsushi Hara will continue with Team HB x HPI RACING through the 2016 RC racing season. After an amazing 2012 season with strong podium finishes at all 3 World Championship Events, Atsushi is looking forward to an even better 2013 season. Atsushi Hara will be campaigning the HB TCXX, R10 and D812 platforms for the upcoming season.

Here are a few words from Atsushi Hara:

I am very happy to re-sign for Team HB x HPI RACING through the 2016 racing season. I have spent the majority of my Professional RC Driver career at HPI RACING x HB, signing my first HPI RACING x HB contract in 2001, over 11 years ago. I am looking forward to adding more title wins in the coming years and to also contribute to the growth of HPI RACING x HB.

Atsushi Hara’s major R/C Achievements:

• IFMAR 1/8th Nitro Offroad World Championships. Winner in 2008, 2nd in 2010, 3rd in 2012
• 2012 IFMAR 1/10th IC World Championships, 2nd Place
• 2012 IFMAR 1/10th Electric TC World Championships, 2nd Place. Winner in 2000
• Reedy Race of Champions
• ROAR Nitro On Road and Electric On Road Championship
• TITC (Thailand International R/C Touring Car Championship)
• JMRCA (Japan National Championships)
• IIC (International Indoor Championships)
• LRP Touring Car Masters
• KMRCA (Korean Electric Touring Car Nationals)
• R1GP Indoor International Championship

Lee Martin Signs With Pro-Line For 2013

Team Pro-Line could not be happier than to have Lee Martin seek out our support for his LMR efforts in 2013. Lee is a World Class racer and has already shown that his newly acquired Pro-Line rubber is capable of World Class results by dominating the Italian Job in his opening event. Congratulations Lee and welcome to the Team!

“I’m proud and excited to be joining one of the major brands in not just tyres, but in RC racing in general! Pro-Line has been a leading brand since as long as I can remember and I will push to succeed and increase their ever growing list of race wins and titles!”

– Lee Martin

Pro-Line Signs Mike Truhe to the 2013 PL Factory Team

All of us here at Pro-Line are really excited to have Mike on board for 2013. Mike has many years of experience and race wins under his belt. All of this adds to our already strong team and we look forward to a great season. – Team Pro-Line

“I’m really excited to join team Pro-Line and work together with an awesome group of people.” – Mike Truhe

Agama Racing signs Jeremy Kortz through 2014

We look forward to our continuous growth within the competitive racing market. We take pride in our high quality products as they are a direct reflection of our passion for R/C Racing. We are excited to have Jeremy Kortz showcase our fine products on the track throughout the world.

Jeremy Kortz: “It’s been great to be a part of a successful growing organization, Im happy to be a part of their future success as well. The Agama product has been amazing to work with and very competitive right from the start. We’re ready to hit the track, Agama Style!”

Schumacher Signs Drivers For 2013 Season

Schumacher Racing would like to welcome Danny McGee back to their off road team. Danny has been racing at the highest level for several years and has won several British national races. Last year he finished 3rd in 4WD and 10th in 2WD in the highly competitive British championship. Danny will be a top contender in 2013 with the Cougar SV2 and the new CAT K1 buggies.

In other driver news Schumacher are pleased to announce two of our top On Road drivers have also signed new deals. 2012 Worlds ‘A’ finalist, multi British Champion Chris Grainger and ETS front runner Martin Hofer have re-signed and are greatly looking forward to racing at the highest level and assisting us with development of new products.

Jared Tebo Re-Signs With Team Orion

Team Orion is very happy to announce that Jared Tebo has re-signed with Team Orion through 2014. This will be Tebo’s 5th and 6th consecutive year with Team Orion. Over the past 4 years with Team Orion, Tebo has recorded 7 ROAR National Championships along with many major wins! Team Orion USA Team Manager Joe Pillars says, “Jared has been a great addition to our Team. Four years ago we were looking to expand our Team with another big name driver, at got it. Tebo has brought a great respect for our products and cant for the next 2 years”.

2010 ROAR Nitro Off-Road Nationals – Denver, CO

• Jared Tebo – 1/8 Nitro Pro Buggy ROAR National Champion
• Jared Tebo – 1/8 Nitro Pro Truggy ROAR National Champion

2010 ROAR Electric Off-Road Modified Nationals – Joliet, IL

• Jared Tebo – Modified Truck ROAR National Champion

2011 IFMAR 1/10 Off-Road World Championships – Vaasa, Finland

• Jared Tebo – 2wd Modified Buggy 3rd Overall
• Jared Tebo – 4wd Modified Buggy 3rd Overall

2011 ROAR Electric Off-Road Modified Nationals – Union City, CA

• Jared Tebo – Modified Truck ROAR National Champion
• Jared Tebo – 4wd Modified Buggy ROAR National Champion

2011 ROAR 1/8 Electric Off-Road Modified Nationals – Omaha, NE

• Jared Tebo – 1/8E Buggy ROAR National Champion
• Jared Tebo – 1/8E Truggy ROAR National Champion

Dustin Evans Re-Signs With Team Orion

Team Orion is proud to announce that Dustin Evans has re-signed with Team Orion through 2013. This will be Evans’s 3rd consecutive year with Team Orion. Over the past 2 years, Evans was able to capture his 1st ROAR National Championship at NorCal Hobbies in Union City, CA in 2011. Evans was the man to beat all weekend by TQ’ing the highly contested 2wd Modified Buggy class. He then going on to wrap up the Championship in the first two A-Main events. Evans has also won countless other races with Team Orion including the presitgous Invitational Class Overall at the Reedy International Off-Road Race of Champions in 2011! Team Orion USA Team Manager Joe Pillars says, “Dustin has been a big piece of the puzzle for Team Orion’s electric off-road program. Dustin has been great to work with and testing new products that we use today”.

2011 Reedy International Off-Road Race of Champions – La Mirada, CA

• Dustin Evans – 2wd & 4wd Modified Buggy Invitational Champion

2011 ROAR Electric Off-Road Modified Nationals – Union City, CA

• Dustin Evans – 2wd Modified Buggy ROAR National Champion

2011 IFMAR 1/10 Off-Road World Championships – Vaasa, Finland

• Dustin Evans – 2wd Modified Buggy A-Main Finalist

Andy Moore Re-Signs with Team HB for 2013

Team HB is pleased to announce that 2006 ISTC World Champion Andy Moore has re-signed with Team HB for the 2013 season. Coming off a strong 2012 season, including a 4th place finish at the IFMAR 1/10th IC World Championships, Andy will be looking for more success in 2013. Andy will be campaigning the HB TCXX and R10 platforms for the upcoming season.

Here are a few words from Andy Moore:

I’m excited to get racing in 2013 after a successful 2012 with both the TCXX and the new R10. This will be my 9th year running for team HB/HPI and I’d like to thank Tatsuro Watanabe and Hiro Kasuya for their continued support. As always I will be at most of the big on road races this year and look forward to seeing everyone at the track.

Andy Moore’s R/C Achievements:

• 2006 ISTC World Champion
• European Champion TC Electric
• Hobbywing Cup
• BRCA Winter National
• Beijing International RC Invitational
• BTCC Summer Championships
• BRCA Touring Car Series
• TITC (Thailand International R/C Touring Car Championship)

Cavalieri Re-Signs With Team Orion

Team Orion is very excited to announce that current IFMAR 2wd & 4wd Buggy World Champion Ryan Cavalieri has re-signed with Team Orion through 2014. This will be Cavalieri’s 8th and 9th consecutive year with Team Orion and both parties couldnt be more excited! Over the past 7 years with Team Orion, Cavalieri has recorded an impressive 15 ROAR National Championships and 2 IFMAR World Championships along with countless other wins! Team Orion USA Team Manager Joe Pillars says, “Its great to have Ryan on our Team for another 2 years. Ryan and I go way back, we have built a solid and trusting relationship that has worked very well. I cant wait to see what the next 2 years brings”.

2006 ROAR Electric Off-Road Modified Nationals – Indianapolis, IN

• Ryan Cavalieri – 2wd Modified Buggy ROAR National Champion
• Ryan Cavalieri – Modified Truck ROAR National Champion

2007 ROAR Electric Off-Road Modified Nationals – Albuquerque, NM

• Ryan Cavalieri – 2wd Modified Buggy ROAR National Champion
• Ryan Cavalieri – 4wd Modified Buggy ROAR National Champion
• Ryan Cavalieri – Modified Truck ROAR National Champion

2008 ROAR Electric Off-Road Modified Nationals – Saugus, CA

• Ryan Cavalieri – 2wd Modified Buggy ROAR National Champion
• Ryan Cavalieri – Modified Truck ROAR National Champion

2009 ROAR Electric Off-Road Modified Nationals – Nebraska

• Ryan Cavalieri – 2wd Modified Buggy ROAR National Champion
• Ryan Cavalieri – 4wd Modified Buggy ROAR National Champion

2010 ROAR Electric Off-Road Modified Nationals – Joliet, IL

• Ryan Cavalieri – 4wd Modified Buggy ROAR National Champion

2011 ROAR Nitro Off-Road Nationals – Beaumont, CA

• Ryan Cavalieri – 1/8 Nitro Buggy ROAR National Champion

2011 IFMAR 1/10 Off-Road World Championships – Vaasa, Finland

• Ryan Cavalieri – 2wd Modified Buggy World Champion
• Ryan Cavalieri – 4wd Modified Buggy World Champion

ROAR Electric Off-Road Modified Nationals – La Mirada, CA

• Ryan Cavalieri – 2wd Modified Buggy ROAR National Champion
• Ryan Cavalieri – 4wd Modified Buggy ROAR National Champion
• Ryan Cavalieri – Modified Truck ROAR National Champion
• Ryan Cavalieri – 2wd Modified Short Course ROAR National Champion

European Champion Joins Team Orion

With great pleasure we announce that three time European Champion Reno Savoya joined Team Orion. He will use the whole range of Team Orion’s latest nitro and electric products to power his cars!

Read what Reno has to say:

“It’s a real pleasure for me to join Team Orion! I followed for many years their dedication and great results in both electro and nitro classes, and I’m proud to be part of it now! We can’t be anything other than impressed with the professionalism they are bringing to our passion! Just take a look at this video!

Working with Adrien is a great opportunity for me, as we live close to each other, and we will have a real connection for developing and working on the nitro engine department. I will of course push as much as I can all the products made by Team Orion in all the classes I’m running! Can’t wait to start racing with my new updated package this week end in Padova for Italian Job! Don’t mess with the Shark!”

And our CRF Project Manager Adrien Bertin says:

“I am very happy to welcome Reno in our great family! Not only he is one of the best buggy drivers in the world but he is also living very close from my testing base. His addition to the team will be another boost for our engine product range as we will be in condition to test and develop even better and harder our crf power planrs. It’s great for our European support, too and I appreciate Reno’s involment in the racing scene. He will be the perfect partner for David Ronnefalk to achieve our goal to win in the European field.”

Welcome in the team, Reno!

Teemu Leino Re Signs with Team HB for 2013

Team HB is pleased to announce that 2012 1/10 Nitro Worlds TQ Teemu Leino has re signed with Team HB for the 2013 season. Coming off a promising 2012 season Teemu is looking forward to an even better 2013. Teemu will be campaigning the HB TCXX, R10 and D812 platfroms for the upcoming season.

Here are a few words from Teemu Leino:

I’m really looking forward to 2013 with HB x HPI RACING as they have made great job to have top performance cars in each category that I race. 1/10 Electric TCXX, 1/10 Nitro R10 and 1/8 Off-Road D812, all these cars started the WC finals with number one last year so that shows that these cars has top performance. Also atmosphere in the team is really great so its always lot’s of fun to go racing with the team.

Teemu Leino’s R/C Achievements:

• European Champion TC Electric
• Multiple podium finishes at European Championships
• 3rd place at World Championships
• TITC winner
• IIC winner
• LRP race winner

Dakotah Phend Re-Signs With Team Orion

Team Orion is happy to announce that Dakotah Phend has re-signed with Team Orion through 2014. This will be Phend’s 3rd and 4th consecutive year with Team Orion. Over the past 4 years with Team Orion, Phend has won 1 ROAR National Championship as well as many podium finishes at the major events. Last year Dakotah attended his first IFMAR World Championship in Vaasa, Finland where he made both A-Main Events with his Team Orion powered TLR rides. This past year has been very impressive as well with Phend finishing 2nd in both classes at the ROAR 1/8 Gas Nationals and making the A-Main Event at the IFMAR 1/8 Buggy World Championships in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Team Orion USA Team Manager Joe Pillars says, “Dakotah is a great young talent and we are happy to have him continue with Team Orion. Over the past 2 years, Dakotah has really impressed me as a driver and his results are always consistantly good”.

2011 ROAR Electric Off-Road Modified Nationals – Union City, CA

• Dakotah Phend – 4×4 Modified Short Course ROAR National Champion

2011 IFMAR 1/10 Off-Road World Championships – Vaasa, Finland

• Dakotah Phend – 2wd Modified Buggy A-Main Finalist
• Dakotah Phend – 4wd Modified Buggy A-Main Finalist

2012 IFMAR 1/8 Off-Road World Championships – Buenos Aires, Argentina

Dakotah Phend – 1/8 Nitro Buggy A-Main Finalist

Ty Tessmann Re Signs with Team HB for 2013

Team HB is pleased to announce that 2012 ROAR Double National Champion and Worlds Podium finisher Ty Tessmann has re signed with Team HB for the 2013 season. Coming off a fantastic 2012 season Ty is looking forward to an even better 2013. Ty will be campaigning the New HB D812 platfrom for the upcoming season.

Here are a few words from Ty Tessmann:

I would like to start off by thanking HB for all the support they have given me and the success we have had together. I want to thank Tatsuro Watanabe, Hiro Kasuya and Torrance Deguzman for helping to make my 2012 season so successful. I am excited to be signing with HB for the 2013 season, I look forward to racing with the best.

About Ty:

Ty Tessmann is a young man with a great deal of determination and a very strong work ethic. He consistently gives 110% in his racing and the maintenance of his cars. His love for the sport and his willingness to give up much of the average activities of a teenager, to do his sport brought him to the forefront of the RC industry in the summer of 2008.

Ty started driving RC cars at a fairly young age. His first car was a Tamiya Wild Dagger, which was a toy for him more than anything until several people in his community, including his mom and dad decided to start an RC club. The first big race Ty ever went to was at Monster Hobbies in Idaho, when he was eleven years old. There he met some of his heros, Adam Drake, Travis Amezcua, Ryan Cavalieri, Jimmy Babcock and Doug Scripture. After their warm reception towards Ty it seemed he knew what he wanted to do, and very quickly after racing in his hometown and traveling to races throughout Alberta, Ty’s determination and natural talent was noticed by more than just a few people. Ty was on his way. (Source: http://www.tytessmann.com)

Ty Tessmann’s 2012 Results:

• The Dirt Nitro Challenge. 1st in Pro Buggy and Pro Truggy
• Arcor Race #1. 1st in 1/8th Truck Pro and 4WD SC
• 1/8 ROAR Fuel Nationals. 1st in 1/8 Truck
• Arcor Race #2. 1st in 1/8th Buggy, Truck and 4WD SC
• Arcor Race #3. 1st in 1/8th Buggy, Truck and 4WD SC
• ROAR Offroad Electric Nationals. 1st in 1/8th Electric Buggy
• Thunder Alley Championships. 1st in Expert 1/8th Buggy and Truggy
• IFMAR 1/8th Nitro Offroad World Championships. Qualified 3rd, #1 Starter and 2nd place finish

AKA Pairs Up Two World Champions for the 2013-2014 race seasons

AKA is very proud to announce the signing of current 1:10 Double World Champion, Team Associated’s Ryan Cavalieri and the re-signing of past World Champion, Team Kyosho’s Jared Tebo for the 2013 and 2014 seasons. Drivers of this caliber have their choice of tires to run and we could not be happier that they both chose to race with AKA tires for the coming two seasons. Both will play a vital role in advancing AKA’s 1:10 tire program in 2013 as well as improving AKA’s already dominant 1:8 tire program. We at AKA look forward to working with both Jared and Ryan to further advance our tire and accessory programs over the next two years.

Welcome aboard Ryan and welcome back Jared!

Pro-Line 2013 Factory Team Driver Announcement

After a dominating 2012 race season, capturing 7 ROAR National Titles, Pro-Line is proud to present our Factory Team driver line up for the 2013 Racing Season. This world class field of drivers are sure to reward Pro-Line’s customers with continued industry leading product innovations.

Two-Time World Champ Atsushi Hara Joins A Main Hobbies and ProTek RC

A Main Hobbies is proud to announce that two-time World Champion, Atsushi Hara, will be racing for A Main Hobbies and ProTek RC. Hara, who is regarded as one of the most-talented RC racers of all time, has won a world title in 1/10-scale electric touring car and 1/8-scale nitro off-road, two very different disciplines— cementing his place in RC history. For the 2013 season, Hara will be racing with ProTek’s Supreme Power Lipo batteries, Prodigy chargers and ProTek’s complete line of RC accessories. “Hara’s presence will elevate our race team. He is one of the most complete RC racers and an all-around good guy. We are excited to have him race for us. His decision to compete with ProTek RC products is a testament to the brand’s quality and heritage,” said A Main Hobbies CEO Kendall Bennett.

Hara’s first race with A Main Hobbies and ProTek RC will be the Reedy Race of Champions held at West Coast RC Raceway in La Mirada, California. The race, which takes place January 24-27, features the top off-road racers from around the world competing in a heads-up invitational class. Hara will be using the latest ProTek Lipo batteries and chargers for both his 2WD and 4WD buggies. “I’m excited to be on the A Main Hobbies race team and to be competing with ProTek RC equipment. A Main Hobbies and ProTek RC have been leading the industry, which was important in my decision,” said, Atsushi Hara.

Neil Cragg Re-signs With Team Associated For A Multi-Year Deal

Team Associated is proud to announce that their 2005 2WD IFMAR World Champion Neil Cragg has re-signed to a multi-year deal. A driver with Team Associated since 1997, Cragg has won six EFRA Championships between 1:10 2WD and 4WD Buggy and 11 BRCA National Championships among 1:10 2WD and 4WD Buggy and 1:8 gas buggy with Team Associated vehicles.

For 2013, Cragg returns to his heritage and will use Reedy Sonic brushless motors and batteries to power his Factory Team B4.1, C4.1 and B44.2. Cragg will also continue his relationship with LRP using their gas engines, speed controls and chargers.

All of us here at Team Associated and Reedy are excited to continue working with the Cragg family and look forward to many more years of success together

If you like this article, check out this additional article on Racing News.

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