Barnhart Hopes To Stabilize IRL’s Event Schedule In Near Future

IRL President & CEO Brian Barnhart is interviewed by Curt Cavin of the INDIANAPOLIS STAR, and says of the state of the racing series, “Look at the stability we’ve provided: long-term contracts through our television and engine partners through 2009, long-term commitments with our tire manufacturer and gear box people. Our (contracts) are in place for a longer period of time than any other form of motor sports. We’re providing a stable platform for our team owners. Now we need to give them long-term stability with the (event) schedule.” Barnhart said there would be 18-20 cars racing this season. He said of the current marketing strategy, “If we keep doing what we’re doing, I’m not sure we can make enough inroads. We must raise the value of participation in this series. We need aggressive thinking.” The IRL recently signed a deal with KISS’ Gene Simmons, who recorded the song “I Am Indy” for the series to use this year. Barnhart said of the song, “It’s not meant to be a top-40 single, but it will serve its purpose for us and improve the fan experience. It’s foot stomping, and when you connect it with our marketing materials and put videos with it, it’s cool” (INDIANAPOLIS STAR, 1/26).

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Tennis Exec Says Colorful Fans Integral Part Of Australian Open

In Sydney, Margie McDonald reports there are concerns at the Australian Open that tennis is “being turned into a football-match style atmosphere.” Tennis Australia spokesperson John Lindsay said, “Colourful fans and great atmosphere are a core part of the Australian Open. We did receive complaints from some patrons last night who were seated around groups of fans singing and dancing. And we did have to re-locate a number of those. ... Not all patrons are a fan of large groups” (THE AUSTRALIAN, 1/26).

AVP TOUR: The Atlanta Sports Council announced a three-year deal with the AVP Pro Beach Volleyball Tour to host an AVP Tour event, beating out Austin, Indianapolis, Philadelphia and San Diego. The Sports Council will create eight beach volleyball courts in a 4,000-seat temporary stadium for this year’s event, to be held July 6-9 at Atlantic Station (ATLANTA CONSTITUTION, 1/26).

ECHL: The Pro Hockey Players’ Association (PHPA) and the ECHL BOG have ratified the major points of a three-year extension of their CBA. Those points include: year-over-year cost of living increases; an “enhanced procedure to deliver timely, professional care of injured players”; and a commitment to provide assistance for the PHPA Career Enhancement Program, which will “assist players with their transition to life after hockey.” The extension will take effect June 1 (ECHL).

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