ASA: Robert Durovka Named Crew Chief for Gold Star Racing

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

Veteran Russ Tuttle looks for career year onboard Conseco Pontiac

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind.--Two-year American Speed Association competitor Russ Tuttle has promoted Wisconsin-native Robert Durovka to position of crew chief for Gold Star Racing in the upcoming 2001 ASA Racing Series season. Durovka served the position of tire carrier for the entire 2000 season as a member of the crew and full-time race shop employee.

“I feel this is a great opportunity for myself and the Conseco Team,” said Durovka. “We have worked really hard this winter. Russ (Tuttle) has put together what I feel is a very competitive team. We are hoping for a top-10 finish in year-end points and to battle for a couple of race wins.”

Before joining Gold Star Racing, Durovka worked as a fabricator, building and repairing chassis for Bre Chassis in Milwaukee, Wisconsin until the opportunity came up to go to work with Tuttle in 2000.

Durovka got his first experience with ASA in 1992, serving as a crew member on the weekends. In 1997, he worked with the Leo Motorsports Team and driver Tim Sauter. Durovka has been a crew chief in street stocks and dirt sportsman cars, working on a seve ral championship teams along the way.

“I am excited to finally be able to promote someone within our own organization to the position of crew chief,” Gold Star Racing owner and driver Tuttle said. “Bob’s biggest attribute is that he is a quick learner and also a determined and dedicated indiv idual. After the tutorage under last year’s (former) crew chief Steve Strasburg, he is trained to take over the reins of the race team.”

Durovka will have the added advantage of some outside help in 2001, as he will receive constant guidance from Wayne Lensing, founder of Lefthander Chassis.

“Wayne Lensing is arguably one of the greatest minds in short-track racing, and he will be working directly with Durovka throughout the 2001 season and we see that as nothing but advantageous,” said Tuttle.

As will all successful crew chiefs, racing on many levels has been a big part of Durovka’s life for the last 20 years.

“I have always been interested in racing,” said Durovka. “My dad raced stock cars and dragsters in the 50s and early 60s. Growing up in West Allis, Wisconsin, and living just one block away from the Milwaukee Mile, we tried to go to every race, no matter w hat was running.”

Before making his selection, Tuttle interviewed other qualified candidates. But he admits that Durovka was always his first choice. “Sometimes you don’t have to look any further than your own backyard,” said Tuttle.

Text Provided By Jeremy Troiano

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