Dempsey Captures Fifth Win of 2009

BRASELTON, September 26, 2009: Juncos Racing’s Peter Dempsey started today’s race from the pole position, led every lap, and finished it with a win, showcasing yet another dominating performance from the young Irishman. Today’s win marks Dempsey’s fifth win of the 2009 Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear season, with his other wins being at Virginia International Raceway, Iowa Speedway, and both races at the doubleheader event in Autobahn. Dempsey is now leading the overall Championship by 15 points (444-429) over Adam Christodoulou of JDC Motorsports.

Dempsey had an excellent start, and when the race resumed after a first-lap caution, Dempsey had a perfect restart, immediately pulling away from second place competitor, Conor Daly. By lap five, Dempsey had a 3-second lead over Daly, and by the time he crossed the finish line, he had created an incredible 7.769-second gap between himself and the 17-year old. Dempsey also clocked in the fastest lap of the race with a time of 1:20.540, as well as winning a $500 check from “Racing for Kids” for being the top finisher out of the drivers participating in the program this season.

“I’ve always wanted to win a race at Road Atlanta, and I’m glad I could make amends for last year’s disappointment”, says Dempsey. “I’m happy to have my family over from Ireland as well; I’m extremely thankful for their support over years. The car was unbelievable today, and Juncos Racing once again proved that they are the best team in the paddock. I’m glad I could gain a few Championship points on Adam (Christodoulou) because it slightly takes the pressure off me going into the race at Laguna Seca, but it’s important for me to stay focused on job at hand and do the best we can do going into the last race.”

Teammate Toshihiro Deki drove consistently well in the race today, gaining four positions and ultimately finishing in 15th position overall. In the Expert Series, Deki ended up with a second place finish behind fellow competitor and winner of today’s Expert Series race, Chris Cumming. Although he finished second today, Deki leaves Georgia maintaining his Championship lead over Cumming. Deki now goes into the last race at Laguna Seca, California, with a 4-point lead over Cumming in his class (172-168).

“The race today was good”, says Deki. “Even though I didn’t end up winning the Expert Series race, I came in second, and I’m still leading the Championship in my class, so I’m very happy. I’m also extremely happy for Peter (Dempsey) and his win today. I want to thank the Juncos Racing family because they really are the best team, in my opinion. I’m looking forward to the last race in Laguna Seca and pursuing a win.”

“I’m so proud of the whole team and my drivers this weekend”, says Team Owner, Ricardo Juncos. “With Peter, this has been our most important victory so far, so it was a special win that we really needed. Toshi was consistent in the race today and picked up several positions. We are going to keep working hard like always to finish the season strongly. I just want to thank the whole team, my wife, and my family for all of their continued dedication and hard work.”

Juncos Racing entered this weekend’s penultimate race at Road Atlanta with two Championship leads and will still leave with two Championship leads going into the final race. The final race of the 2009 Star Mazda Championship season will take place in just two short weeks at the Mazda Raceway in Laguna Seca, California.