MT: Mark Kraus commits to new series

American Speed Association Gains Kraus for Midwest Tour

DAYTONA BEACH, FL (February 11, 2007) -- The American Speed Association Kwik Trip Midwest Tour presented by Echo Outdoor Power Equipment has signed 37-year-old Mark Kraus of Stratford, WI for the inaugural 2007 season.

"The Tour sounds like a competitive series under great operation. It will showcase the top Midwest racers at good tracks," explained Kraus.

Kraus most recently competed in the NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Midwest Series. He started racing on the old dirt track at the Marshfield Speedway (WI) and won three championships in the early 1990s. The track was paved for the 1996 season and Kraus won the late model championship in 1998. He continued to take to the clay, competing in the United Dirt Track Racing Association's Pro DirtCar series in 2002.

"Mark has alot of traveling experience running with the Elite Series and having Don as a car owner gives him every tool he needs to have a shot at the win," stated series President Tim Olson. "He has great looking cars, top notch equipment, and he is proven. That's just another reason why the fans will be happy seeing the best of the best racing in the Midwest Tour," Olson added.

"The ASA Midwest Tour is taking the place of the AutoZone series. It's not that far to travel and gives the opportunity to run against other drivers," Mark said, "The rules open the competition up to more people and allow more motor combinations."

In his free time Kraus enjoys four-wheeling, fishing, and spending time with his children.

Mark's number 5 car is sponsored by Fanetti, Inc. in Menomonie (WI) and K&K Material Handling in Green Bay (WI).

Kraus will make his ASA Midwest Tour debut April 28, 2007 at the Elko Speedway.

-credit: asa