US F2000 announces television package for 2001

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

March 23, 2001

FAIRFIELD, N.J.--The U.S. F2000 National Championship has continued its relationship with the Speedvision Network for 2001, with exclusive television rights and series presenting sponsorship for the 14-race Championship going to the Stamford, Conn.-based television network.

In 2001, 10 of the 14-race schedule will be televised, beginning with the March 3 season-opener at the Homestead-Miami Speedway on the 2.21-mile road course, which has an initial air date of Monday, May 21 at 10:00 p.m. For each U.S. F2000 broadcast, the Speedvision Network will produce and air one-hour programs to be broadcast in prime-time slots on a tape-delayed basis. Derek Daly and Rick Benjamin have been slated as the commentators, with Sandy Heng and Guy Hobbs as the pit reporters for all broadcasts.

“To maintain the growth and exposure of the U.S. F2000, a top-notch and dedicated television package is necessary, and we’re happy to continue our relationship with the Speedvision Network,” said Dan Andersen, series co-owner. “While we are disappointed that the entire 14-race schedule will not be televised, due to various circumstances, anyone who has ever seen a Speedvision race broadcast knows that there is no better coverage for motorsports in North America.”

After the season-opener, each broadcast is scheduled for initial airing two to three weeks following the race, in prime-time slots between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. (ET). Most broadcasts will be produced live-to-tape with onboard cameras to put the viewer in the driver’s seat with the best young talent in open-wheel racing today.

The Speedvision Network is America’s first and only cable network dedicated to automobile, aviation and marine information and entertainment. The 24-hour channel offers a wide-range of programming—from news and lifestyle products to historical documentaries, racing events and instructional shows—and has grown to a reach in excess of 40 million households.

TELEVISION BROADCAST SCHEDULE

All Times Eastern

Round 1
Homestead-Miami Speedway
Monday, May 21, 10:00 p.m.

Round 4
Watkins Glen International
Monday, June 18, 10:00 p.m.

Round 7
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
Saturday, June 30, 9:00 p.m.

Round 8
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
Saturday, June 30, 10:00 p.m.

Round 9
Road America
Saturday, July 28, 9:00 p.m.

Round 10
Road America
Saturday, July 28, 10:00 p.m.

Round 11
Chicago Motor Speedway
Saturday, August 11, 10:00 p.m.

Round 12
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
Saturday, August 25, 10:00 p.m.

Round 13
Daytona International Speedway
Friday, October 5, 8:00 p.m.

Round 14
Daytona International Speedway
Friday, October 5, 9:00 p.m.

Text provided by Allan Craighead

Editors Note: To view hundreds of hot racing photos and art, visit The Racing Photo Museum and the Visions of Speed Art Gallery.