Claude Plante to run Late Model Series in 2004

PENDLETON, Ind. (February 10, 2004) -- Michigan Late Model racer Claude Plante has announced his plans to compete in the 2004 ASA Late Model Series beginning with the season-opening event at Madison International Speedway in Wisconsin on Saturday, May 8.

"I'm looking forward to racing on a regular basis with a traveling series again in 2004," said Claude Plante. "I raced the Iceman Series in the past and really enjoyed the traveling aspect of the series and getting to know the racers and tracks on the schedule. The ASA Late Model Series has a great structure and it should be a competitive first season under the ASA banner."

The ASA Late Model Series offers many advantages to Late Model competitors in 2004 with the BFGoodrich Traction T/A Tires making it initial entry to Late Model racing, a regionalized 14-race schedule and an affordable engine program that places the series on a level playing field.

"The biggest adjustment period for myself and the competitors in the series will be the introduction of the BFGoodrich Radials. I don't have any knowledge of racing on radials, but my crew has experience, so hopefully that will make the transition much smoother in the early events of 2004. Car preparation will be a huge factor with everybody having equal horsepower," added Plante.

In 2004, Plante has teamed up with his uncle Larry Varney in their venture to the 2004 ASA Late Model Series. They will have associate sponsorship from Wynn's, Tireman Auto Center, Drive Train Specialists, US Brake and 2-Qwik Performance Shocks. The team will run the Ford body style and engine package and will have chassis support from Howe Racing Enterprises.

Plante began his racing career in the World Karting Association, recording several victories. He advanced to stock car racing and earned the 1994 Owosso Speedway Street Stock rookie of the year honors and the 1995 Limited Late Model rookie of the year title.

In 1996, Plante made 36 starts at the tracks of Owosso, Tri-City Motor Speedway and Auto City Speedway. He produced four wins, 29 top fives and finished top 10 in points at all three tracks.

The Michigan racer captured the 1998 Iceman Series Rookie of the Year title and finished 10th in the point standings. He also set a record with scoring three consecutive pole positions. He added two poles the following season and finished in the top five on five occasions.

From 2002-2003, Plante competed in wedged Late Models, scoring top-five finishes at several tracks in Michigan and Ohio. One of his highlights was a third-place finish in the Mudslinger event at Auto City.

The American Speed Association is based in Pendleton, Ind., and has offered stock car racing programs since 1968, including the ASA National Tour, ASA Late Model Series and ASA Member Track programs. For additional information, visit asaracing.com.