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UMSS Proudly Names Joe Kouba as Technical Director for Sprint Car Series

Stillwater, MN (12-7-10)

The Upper Midwest SprintCar Series (UMSS) is very pleased to announce that series co-founder Joe Kouba will serve in the capacity as Technical Director for both the winged 360 sprint car and the new non-winged sprint car divisions. “Joe Kouba was instrumental in helping form the UMSS, and without his assistance, knowledge and support from the beginning, the UMSS would not exist today,” stated series co-founder Ron Bernhagen. Joe brings a lifetime of experience and a wealth of knowledge gained as a driver, car owner and mechanic in the world of sprint car racing. “I have relied heavily on Joe’s knowledge of sprint cars and engines in helping shape and mold the UMSS in its first two years,” continued Bernhagen. Joe has been doing this for the UMSS since the series first started, so serving in this capacity only reinforces his dedication and commitment to helping the UMSS and sprint car racing gain in popularity in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

The Kouba family has a proud tradition in our great sport, and Joe is more than willing to help fellow competitors by giving advice and assistance regarding the technical aspects of the cars themselves and the engines. Joe is often seen spending time helping fellow competitors in the pit area during a racing program to solve issues, make repairs or just give some helpful tips. Series competitors, new drivers, and prospective race teams in both sprint car divisions should contact Joe Kouba with questions about mechanical or technical issues involving the cars or the engines. Joe will continue to help assist in the technical process for the UMSS. Joe Kouba can be contacted by phone at 612-751-4646, via email at JRKracer@aol.com or in person in the pit area during an evening of exciting UMSS sprint car racing action. Joe plans to continue to field cars for his son Joseph and his daughter Anna, as the Kouba family continues its long-standing tradition of supporting sprint car racing.

Stay tuned for additional updates from the UMSS regarding the winged 360 sprint cars, the new non-winged sprint car series, and the micro sprints. The UMSS is continuing to work on their 2011 schedule for all divisions. Final preparations for the upcoming UMSS banquet and free sprint car seminar on January 22, 2011 are well underway. Plans call for an informational meeting for the new non-winged series on January 8, 2011. The exact time and location of the meeting will be announced soon. For additional information, rules, past race results, standings, and driver profiles, please visit our website at www.umsprints.com or check out the UMSS on Facebook where there is a nice photo summary of the 2009 and 2010 feature winners along with other information.

Photo attachment of Joe Kouba early in his career driving a non-winged sprint car at North Starr Speedway (from GRP

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