Richert Prepares for Portland
Manitoban race car driver David Richert is set to head for Portland, Oregon, in advance of the upcoming Portland Grand Prix July 25-27. The race will mark Round 3 of the Volkswagen Clean Diesel Jetta TDI Cup as the series will hit the track for the first time since the last race at Mosport International Raceway just east of Toronto, Ontario. Richert has spent the last few weeks preparing both physically and mentally for the upcoming race. "I have spent a lot of time running, biking, and working in the gym so I should be prepared physically, especially if Portland ends up being as hot as it can be." states Richert. Preparing mentally is equally as important he notes, "I have spent a lot of time watching videos of the track and driving simulations of the Portland International Raceway on my computer so I should be ready to dive right in once I get there". All of the latest details will be posted at the official website of David Richert Racing www.richertracing.com. Unique Helmet for Portland
David Richert will be sporting a fresh new helmet design for the Portland Grand Prix and it is one which speaks volumes about the amount of support a driver must receive to reach a high level of auto racing. Richert's previously white helmet has been autographed by everyone who has been a part of his career and who have been a support since the beginning. Some have helped Richert financially while others have aided with networking and providing special opportunities in other areas. "The helmet is looking great and it will be very special to have everyone riding along with me in Portland" said Richert. He goes on, "It is a testament to the number of people who are all working together with me to show that dreams can become reality". Over 50 signed names are already on the helmet but Richert intends to approach many more before he heads for Portland in a few days. Photos of the newly autographed covered race helmet will be available soon. The names appearing on the helmet come from all walks of life and range from people such as City of Winnipeg Councilor Gord Steeves, to the local convenience store owner Rose Friesen, to current website sponsor Randy Wolgemuth at Sunrize Group. Break means Business
One of the most important aspects of racing, the business side, has also been an area of intense focus for Richert over the last few weeks. " We have a great package put together and because Volkswagen is investing upwards of $20 million into the Jetta TDI Cup, I can offer sponsors some serious value for their investment in us. With the race being broadcast internationally on television and enormous local media support, it is allowing me to offer professional level race sponsorships to local Manitoba companies who could otherwise only dream of partnering with a professional race car program." Even so, Richert admits it is still tough to break through negative stereotypes of racing sponsorships. "It is difficult to understand at times as some people would rather buy a newspaper ad when for the same price they could have significant exposure in that same paper in a section which people are more likely to read.....plus they would have a marketing tool that could give them television exposure in their local market and an additional month's worth of advertising through other media." Richert is optimistic though and hopes that he will be able to announce some new partners in the near future.
|
