TOPEKA, Kan. (July 25, 2011) Chip Van Vursts triumph over tragedy racing tale led to his being named the SCCA Star Performer during Sundays America Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patron broadcast from Mosport International Raceway on ESPN2 and ESPN3.com. The Pompano Beach, Florida resident earned this weeks honor during the WeatherTech Chicago Region June Sprints, June 16-19, at Road America. The weekend began badly for Van Vurst, who lost a motor in his Spec Miata-class Mazda Miata during the first qualifying session, then rolled his car through the Turn 12 gravel trap during qualifying two. After a scramble by Van Vurst and his crew and many people who became crew because they happened to be at the track that weekend the Spec Miata made it to the grid, where he would start last in the 45-car class. The Florida Region driver climbed 41 spots to an impressive fourth-place finish in the race, which was shortened to nine green-flag laps. The SCCA Star Performer is selected from a panel of judges, based on recent efforts in SCCAs national Club Racing, Solo and Rally programs. The recipient will be someone who shined above the rest, epitomizing the passion, effort and success within their performance. As part of its new partnership with the American Le Mans Series, one SCCA member will be honored in each American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón television broadcast. SCCA members are also encouraged to enter a sweepstakes for a trip for two to Round 8 of the American Le Mans Series at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. The trip includes luxury oceanfront hotel accommodations and VIP hospitality provided by Tequila Patrón. Autocon Racing will also host a special opportunity for the sweepstakes winner, but only if they are an SCCA member. Registration and more information is available at www.americanlemans.com/scca. More information on the Sports Car Club of America and its programs are available at www.scca.com. Follow SCCA on Twitter @SCCAOfficial or on Facebook at SCCAOfficial.
