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SCCA: Leitzinger to make Trans-Am series debut in Sebring finale

7 October 1999

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

ENGLEWOOD, Colo.--Butch Leitzinger, three-time Rolex 24 at Daytona winner and four-time sports car racing drivers champion, will make his BFGoodrich Tires Trans-Am Series debut at the October SpeedFest at Sebring International Raceway 1999 season finale, October 17.

"We are delighted to have an opportunity to showcase the talents of one of Americas premier young road racers at such a historic venue as Sebring International Raceway," said June Cioppettini, Victoria Motorsports team owner. "Butch comes to the Trans-Am Series with proven successes, great driving credentials and a winning attitude. Its wonderful to have our team bring another fresh face to the Trans-Am Series and we look forward to a highly competitive, exciting race."

Leitzinger, 30, of State College, Pa., will drive the No. 6 Clover Enterprises Chevrolet Camaro, while Victoria Motorsports regular driver Frank Cioppettini will pilot the No. 16 Clover Enterprises Camaro.

"My dad competed in the Trans-Am Series in the 1980s and its always something I wanted to do," said Leitzinger, whos father Bob Leitzinger made eight Trans-Am Series starts in 1980-81, driving a Nissan 280ZX. "So when Frank (Cioppettini) offered me the ride I was delighted."

Sebring International Raceway hosted the inaugural Trans-Am Series race in 1966. The 1999 season finale will be the first time the series has competed at Sebring since 1968.

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