NAPA Retains Title Sponsorship for Montreal Nationwide Race, Adds Carpentier to the Mix

NAPA Auto Parts has renewed its title sponsorship of NASCAR Nationawide Series race in Montreal, Que., through to 2011, and has struck an agreement to have Canadian Patrick Carpentier run at this year’s event.

The event, scheduled this year for the end of August at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, is promoted by Stock Car Montreal.

The 200-mile race funs on an off weekend for NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers, increasing the chances that high-profile names may participate in NASCAR’s second-tier event at the track.

“We are thrilled that NAPA has decided to extend its partnership with us, as the company was a true believer from the outset,” said François Dumontier, promoter and spokesperson for Stock-Car Montréal.

“Their early involvement enabled us to lay a strong foundation in the promotion of the NAPA Auto Parts 200, presented by Dodge event, which is quickly becoming in the minds of many race fans, the motorsport event to attend in Montréal. Over the past two years, we have been able to establish a very strong relationship with NAPA, and we are happy to continue this close association for years to come. As a partner, NAPA is committed to making this event a tremendous success.”

Carpentier, who was long a favourite of Canadian race fans during his tenure with the defunct ChampCar series, moved to NASCAR two years ago and has finished second twice at the Montreal circuit, and was on pole in 2007.

He will be competing in a Toyota fielded by Michael Waltrip Racing.

“By being the official race sponsor, it is clear to me that NAPA wishes more than anything the success of this important event for the City of Montreal,” says Carpentier. “It is an honour to partner with such a talented team like NAPA. My greatest desire is to give the spectators and viewers a great performance that meets their expectations.”

While announcing the NASCAR event back in October 2006 — nearly a year prior the inaugural race — NAPA had shown its eagerness to become involved as the major sponsor for the event. The official agreement was announced April 16, 2007 where NAPA also introduced David Reutimann who drove the NAPA Auto Parts Toyota Camry entry in the first two editions of the Montréal race.

 “As Canadian leader of the automotive aftermarket industry, NAPA is delighted to pursue its long-term association with the NASCAR Nationwide Series and Stock-Car Montréal. The NAPA Auto Parts 200 Montréal race has arguably become one of the most popular sports affairs in Canada in relation to the number of fans attending the event, as well as the size of the television audience. Our association with Stock-Car Montréal and the NASCAR Nationwide Series race is a natural fit,” said Robert Hattem, president, and chief operating officer, UAP Inc.