2005 Copper World Classic announced

Copper World Classic Back at PIR
Classic Event Pairs Cars and Stars from NASCAR and USAC

PHOENIX, AZ (October 1, 2004) - The famed "Copper World Classic," one of America's most revered grass-roots racing events, is returning to its original format and calendar listing in 2005. The announcement of the change was made today by Phoenix International Raceway, the United States Auto Club and NASCAR. The event will mark the opening of the 2005 race season at PIR.

"For many years the Copper World Classic was a signature event for PIR, both in its uniqueness to Phoenix and its popularity among drivers and fans," said PIR President Bryan R. Sperber. "We are delighted that, working with NASCAR and USAC, we have been able to revive this truly special event."

Featuring the USAC Weld Racing Silver Crown Series cars, USAC National & Western Midgets and NASCAR's AutoZone Elite and Grand National, West Series divisions, the event is slated for January 29-30 at the Desert Mile. Tickets are now available and priced at only $29.

"The United States Auto Club, along with our fine Weld Racing Silver Crown Series teams and Midget teams are looking forward to the NEW 2005 Copper World Classic at Phoenix International Raceway," said USAC President/CEO Rollie Helmling. "The Copper World is returning to its roots by moving to its original format. Many participants and race fans appreciate that they will again have an opportunity to visit Phoenix this time of year. The racing is always great at PIR and USAC welcomes this opportunity to join with our friends from NASCAR."

Often recognized in racing circles as one of the sport's most prestigious "grass roots" weekends, the Cooper World Classic began in 1977 with four divisions running - stocks, sprints, formula fords and sports cars. Current NASCAR NEXTEL Cup drivers Tony Stewart, Ryan Newman, Jason Leffler, J.J. Yeley and Jeff Gordon all used this event to launch their careers.

"It's long overdue," offers NASCAR and USAC Champion Tony Stewart, himself a three-time winner in Copper World action. "Bringing back the true tradition of the Copper Classic is something that I'm really excited about. PIR is one of the nicest facilities that USAC goes to all year. It's king of like going to the Daytona 500. Once the season is over everybody is getting ready for the Copper Classic. It's a very prestigious race to win. That's just what makes it special. It's extremely fast, one of the fastest places you can go to with USAC. It's pretty impressive to run there."

For the past few years, the Copper World Classic has featured the Indy Racing League (IRL) and USAC Series racing, however, due to schedule change by the IRL to accommodate national television, the Copper World Classic will once again begin the PIR schedule.

Tickets for the 2005 Copper World Classic can be purchased by visiting www.phoenixraceway.com, or by calling (602) 252-2227 or 1-866-408-7223.

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