hearing the new International Stockcar Alliance [ISA] ( isaracing.com – the site is now down) which was supposed to start up and run in 2003, will either not exist or not run until 2004. The series, based and run in Canada was to feature a chance for a driver and a fan to team up and win a million dollars each at six of the ISA’s races. A few Winston Cup drivers were to run in some or all of the races: Johnny Benson, Dave Blaney, Matt Kenseth, Kurt Busch, Elliott Sadler, Jeff Green, Kenny Schrader, Kevin Harvick and Tony Stewart.(1-31-2003) UPDATE: During a conference call this afternoon, several drivers that have been supporting the recently announced ISA collectively withdrew their support of the series. In reflecting on the past several months the drivers agreed that their initial decisions were founded on the information presented to each of them during random meetings last summer and fall. Since that time, each has expended significant time and money in the pursuit of what was believed to be their future of choice. The drivers believe that their involvement at the ground level could lend an important part to making Canadian racing better for the teams and fans. The drivers involved have become stronger and more respectful of each other, not only as drivers and owners of teams, but for their ability to put competition on the track aside and work towards a mutual business strategy for all teams to benefit. With the current factual information at hand, the decision was unanimous and the teams all plan to immediately re-focus their efforts on the CASCAR Super Series , and the first event scheduled for Delaware Speedway in London, Ontario May 16 to 18, 2003.( CanadianRacing.com ) and been told that as of yesterday morning [Jan 30th], the ISA is insolvent.(1-31-2003) UPDATE 2: Just over three months after announcing grandiose plans to start up a new Canadian stock car series, the ISA, has decided against such a move. On Thursday, the ISA ceased operations. Sportsnet sources claim that the decision was made by ISA investors who had reportedly already spent $4 million (Cdn.) on the series. Attempts by Sportsnet to reach ISA President Mitch Mortimer, or anyone at the ISA offices, were unsuccessful.( sportsnet.ca ) AND Kawartha Superspeedway will commence legal proceedings against the International Stockcar Alliance for breach of the Licensing Agreement and failure to meet important legal obligations and responsibilities. The International Stockcar Alliance had entered in to a ‘licensing agreement’ with Kawartha Superspeedway to use the facility for a series of stockcar races. Kawartha Superspeedway is not aware of the status of money paid to the International Stockcar Alliance by ticket purchasers. Individuals wishing to determine the status of their ticket money should contact the International Stockcar Alliance directly.( Kawartha Superspeedway site )(1-31-2003)
