IRL: Blueprint Racing flying high with Kite
19 February 2000
BEDFORD PARK, Ill., February 19, 2000- Blueprint Racing Enterprises, LLC announced today that veteran Indy Racing driver Jimmy Kite has joined the race team. Kite, of Stockbridge, Georgia, is considered one of the strongest drivers in the Northern Light Indy Racing Series. The addition of Kite, 24, to the Blueprint Racing entry is a building block in the efforts of Ed Rachanski and Keith Sanders to develop a team capable of winning the Indianapolis 500 and the Northern Light Indy Racing Series’ championship. “We are thrilled to have Jimmy on board,” said Blueprint co-owner, Sanders. “We hope to continue this for several seasons. Jimmy is a part of what we are trying to grow here. He snaps right into place with this team.” The combination of Jimmy Kite and Brad McCanless- Blueprint Racing team manager- is a proven factor. The duo has teamed three times before. “He has been there from the start and we have created a really good relationship,” said Kite, ”He knows what needs to be done to the car just by the sound of my voice.” McCanless also looks forward to the reunion. "I am ecstatic we were able to sign Jimmy. I feel this is the future of Blueprint Racing and he is the future of IRL drivers. I think with the addition of Jimmy to our team, and Sonny Meyer developing our motors, we will be a force to be reckoned with in the near future." The opportunity to team with McCanless, Sanders and Rachanski was a large part of why Kite signed with Blueprint. Another draw were the engines that would power him. Declared Kite; “I’m glad to be running with these guys! I was sick of running against Sonny and Ed’s engines. It’ll be nice to finally have that power under my right foot instead of under my competition's!” Kite will wheel the Blueprint Racing #27 for the first time at the Northern Light Indy Racing Series’ “Test in the West” at Phoenix International Raceway, February 25 and 26. The signing date of Kite’s contract with Blueprint coincides with his 24th birthday. “This is the best birthday present I could ask for”, remarked the two-time Indianapolis 500 starter and fastest rookie in 1998. “It will be great to be in a car being prepared by such a strong team. All of these guys are just so good. I’m really looking forward to Phoenix. That is a great track for Blueprint and a great track for me!” Blueprint Racing won the 1997 Phoenix 200 with driver Jim Guthrie and Kite won the 1997 Copper World Classic Silver Bullet race at Phoenix International Raceway.