Riley & Scott Reveals Mark XI for Rolex Series Daytona Prototypes Class
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (February 18, 2002) -- World renowned sports car manufacturer Riley & Scott Racing LLC revealed its new Mk XI, designed to compete in the Rolex Sports Car Series Daytona Prototypes class in 2003. Riley & Scott Vice President Bill Riley made the announcement at the company's factory in Indianapolis, unveiling the manufacturer's latest drawings of their new car. "The level of interest in the new class expressed to us immediately after the Rolex 24 was surprising," Riley commented. "(Riley & Scott President) Bob (Riley) has already been working on the design. We've been able to develop the new car with many elements from the Mk III." The new Mk XI will build on the company's engineering expertise in constructing steel tube/aluminum reinforced chassis with excellent mechanical grip and an outstanding aerodynamic package. The will be suitable for installation of any class-eligible motor. First delivery of the car will be Fall 2002, in time for testing for the 2003 Rolex 24 At Daytona. "The response we have received since the announcement of the Daytona Prototypes only three weeks ago has been remarkable. There has been overwhelming interest in the new Daytona Prototypes," Grand American Road Racing Association President Roger Edmondson said. "We consulted with Riley & Scott during the early planning stages of the Daytona Prototypes because of their impressive history of sports car manufacturing. Just as the Riley & Scott Mk III has been a leader in the SportsRacing Prototype class, I am confident the Mk XI will be a venerable competitor in the new Daytona Prototypes class." The Riley & Scott Mk III has been a tremendously successful chassis in North American sports car racing, with more than 60 race wins, seven driver championships and three Rolex 24 At Daytona victories. Earlier this month, Riley & Scott backed Jim Matthews Racing's Mk III-C in the 40th anniversary of the Rolex 24 At Daytona. Drivers Guy Smith, Scott Sharp, Robby Gordon and Jim Matthews finished second overall in the team's debut event. Additional information about the Rolex Sports Car Series and Daytona Prototypes is available online at www.grand-am.com. -30- EDITORS NOTE: Renderings are available on the Grand American media-specific website at www.grand-am.com/media. Additional information may be requested from: Grand American Road Racing Association Communications Christie Hyde (386) 681-4182 email: CHyde@grand-am.com