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Sherwin-Williams and Discovery Channel head for the winner’s circle.
When Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes expressed an interest in pairing up with Roy Krost, producer of the new show Star Racer, it was a perfect match.
Star Racer, which Roy says is a mix between a reality and documentary show, has 16 fearless racers competing for the title of Star Racer, which means a full season ride on a racing team in the Star Mazda series.
Eight competitors from the karting circuit will continue onto the main competition at Le Circuit in Mt. Tremblant, Quebec. The racers will be evaluated by a panel of judges that includes Paul Tracy.
While filming at Mt. Tremblant, the competitors will attend the world famous Jim Russell Driving School, on the Le Circuit racecourse.
Star Racer also heavily explores the science of engineering and auto racing. Airing on Discovery Channel, it looks at the physics behind the speed of a car, tire pressure and driving technique. As part of the Jim Russell course, the racers are tested on both knowledge and ability. Roy calls it “…exciting, entertaining and scientifically educational.”
Already actively involved in painting cars for the Champ Car World Series and NASCAR, it was only natural for Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes to get involved in the project.
“They do a wonderful job on the Champ cars. They expressed interest and we were delighted to work with them,” says Roy.
The opportunity arrived when Sherwin-Williams Canada’s Marketing Manager Mark Sceeles, met Roy at a Champ Car race in Edmonton, and suggested Sherwin-Williams paint the prize cars for the show.
“Racing has become a passion for us at Sherwin-Williams. In meeting Roy Krost at the Champ Car World Series weekend in Edmonton, we were only too happy to help out,” says Mark. “The fact that so many young drivers will be given an opportunity to show their talents makes it a worthwhile endeavor. Besides, the survivor of this competition deserves to look like a champion.”
Ian Willis, Co-Owner of AIM Autosport, is one of the partners who owns the car painted by Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes. AIM Autosport brought in the cars to be painted, and Sherwin-Williams got the job done in a very limited amount of time.
“They did an amazing job, considering they only had three days to prepare. Normally it would take quite a bit longer than that,” says Ian.
Racing is definitely a sport that has grown in popularity in recent years and shows such as Star Racer help to build an even bigger audience.
Both Roy and Ian agree that the show is a great idea as a boost for young Canadians in motor sports, and provides an opportunity for young drivers who might not be able to arrange backing and sponsorship on their own. Racing is a very expensive sport to get involved with, and this gives them an experience of a lifetime.
“This is a stepping stone into the major world of car racing,” says Roy.
Star Racer premieres October 24th on the Discovery Channel. More information on the show is available online at discovery.ca.
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