F2000: Asaro signs with Key Motorsport

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

FAIRFIELD, N.J. --Billy Asaro of Unionville, Ontario, has announced he will compete in this year's US Formula 2000 National Championship Presented by Speedvision with Key Motorsport.

Billy is delighted that he'll be driving one of Key Motorsport's cars and is looking forward to a good season with one of the top U.S. F2000 teams.

"It feels great," said the nineteen-year-old University of Toronto student. "I'm really happy. The Key cars are up front at almost every race and I'm looking forward to racing one of them."

A former karting champion, Billy spent the summer of 1998 at a racing school in France. The following year he returned to Canada to make a huge impression in the Canadian Formula Ford Championship. Last year, the talented young driver suffered through some unfortunate circumstances, posting a few good results and finishing 10th in the U.S. F2000 championship. His racing career could have easily stalled, but many racing insiders were able to see past the misfortune and spot the diamond in the rough.

Key Motorsport owner, Steve Djelebian, saw the talent and wanted Billy on his team.

"We are very enthusiastic regarding the signing of Billy," said Djelebian. "I have followed Billy since he came upon the scene in FF1600 (Formula Ford), where he drove in a spectacular fashion. He enjoyed some real convincing wins, some by large margins. At that time he showed that he has abundant talent."

While very excited about the announcement, Billy also exudes an air of tranquility. Knowing that he'll be under the guidance of Djelebian is a great source of comfort.

"Every time I'd see Steve [Djelebian] at the track, we'd talk for a little bit," said Billy. "Last year, I had a tough year, but Steve always showed his support. I feel like I'm in good hands."

With the first U.S. F2000 race scheduled for March 3rd at Homestead-Miami Speedway, just south of Miami, Florida, there isn't much time for testing, but spirits are high.

"Billy is certainly a championship contender this year,” said Djelebian. “We will be focusing on doing well one race at the time. Finishing in the top-three positions in F2000 has always been very difficult, but we feel that Billy has the ability and attitude to accomplish this in 2001."

The team will be working hard to sign a second driver to partner Asaro for the upcoming U.S. F2000 season

Text Provided By Allan Craighead

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