ZIP Racing drivers to wear RPM suits

CHICAGO, March 6 - ZIP Racing has gone down under for its drivers' suits this year - by way of Indianapolis.

The team, which fields two Hazardous Sports Porsches in the American Le Mans Series' GT division, announced today that RPM Racegear of Australia will provide suits for its drivers this year. The team's regular drivers are Steve Ivankovich, Andy Lally, Brent Sherman and Spencer Pumpelly. Emil Assentato and Nick Longhi are also on board for the upcoming season opener at Sebring, Fla., on Saturday, March 15.

RPM Racegear's products are available in America from RPM Racegear USA, which is located within North American Race Parts, 312 Gasoline Alley in Indianapolis. Its drivers' suits are FIA, CIK and SFI-approved and come in the latest European designs. RPM Racegear also carries underwear, balaclavas, socks, gloves, boots, five-point harnesses and chest protectors.

"RPM Racegear's quality and design are superior, and we're very pleased with the relationship," said Steve Ivankovich, ZIP Racing's chief executive officer.

"The RPM line will be included with the Hazard Sports line and displays for Dunlop tires and OZ wheels at the Hazard Sports trailer at the ALMS races this year," Ivankovich added.

"RPM Racegear is 11 years old, and RPM Racegear USA is about three years old," said Damon Hill, president of the latter company. "In addition to the ZIP Racing drivers, the Panoz drivers wear our suits in ALMS. We provide the same European-styled and designed suits as the other major manufacturers do, but our prices are 20 to 25 percent less expensive. Our biggest selling point is the value-for-the-money factor. You get the best-quality suits at the most attractive prices in America. With RPM, you don't have to sacrifice your safety because you can't afford it."

RPM Racegear's Web site, which includes product information and sizing charts, is located at www.rpmracegear.com.

ZIP Racing's Web site will debut soon at www.ZIPRacing.com, while Hazardous Sports' is under construction at www.hazardous-sports.com.

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