State Capitol Raceway - Baton Rouge, LA

May 2-4, 2008 - New Breed Racing attended the third stop of the IHRA Pro-Am Tour when it made its way to Cajun Country. A full weekend of racing was enjoyed as well as a "Racer Appreciation Dinner" provided by the track which included the cooking of 2,500 lbs of crawfish along with potatoes and corn on the cob. Several of our racing friends brought home Ironmans including Philip Pennington and Dylan Lee.

2008 RHS Prom

The RHS Prom was held on Saturday, April 26, 2008 at the Patterson Center in Rockdale, TX. Alesi was escorted by her brother Ayrton and the two began their evening with other RHS students for dinner at The Piano Bar & Steakhouse before arriving at the prom. "With graduation just a month away, I am proud to announce that Alesi was chosen by her classmates as ‘Most Likely to Succeed’, said Lisa Gerthe. She was also nominated for Class Favorite and Miss RHS.”

Tulsa Divisional

New Breed Racing, Alesi & Ayrton Gerthe, recently attended the IHRA Division 4 Pro-Am at Tulsa Raceway Park .

After the event, Alesi is currently sitting in the number 17 position in division and 16 in national points, while Ayrton is 19 in division and 28 in national points.

The team will attend the third stop of the tour this weekend at State Capitol Raceway near Baton Rouge, LA.

"Ayrton gained his first round win at Tulsa and the adjustments on his car seemed to improve its consistency," said Duane. "Alesi continues to deliver a consistent package in her lights and at running the Index."

Post Race Update – Amalie Oil Texas Nationals, April 3-6, 2008

April 8, 2008 - Rockdale, TX – New Breed Racing’s Alesi & Ayrton Gerthe competed in the IHRA Knoll-Gas Motorsports Nitro Jam this past weekend when it made its first stop of the season at San Antonio Raceway for the Amalie Oil Texas Nationals.

Alesi and Ayrton both competed in Quick Rod, the 8.90 Index class, and qualified in the number 10 and 11 position. In the Sportsman National event held Friday and Saturday, Alesi made it to the third round and down to nine cars, while younger brother Ayrton went out early. In the main event on Sunday, Alesi lined up against last year’s event winner in round one and advanced to the next round with the win, but bowed out on a double break out pass in round two. Ayrton went out in round one on a break out pass as well.

“We had a great time, starting out our week at the Napa display and right into a weekend full of racing. We had a rain delay Friday morning, which pushed the sportsman national into Saturday’s race day,” commented Alesi. “It was great to spend time with several of our partners; Amalie, Vickery’s, Mickey Thompson, Torco, and especially getting to meet all the new team members of Hoosier Thunder Motorsports, and we always enjoy visiting with Terry and Rhonda. I was a little disappointed that I didn’t go more rounds, but my weekend was capped off in a memorable way when Terry let me drive the Top Fuel dragster back to the pits from the top end after his final round appearance; down parade road in front of all the fans in the stands…that really made my weekend,” concluded Alesi.

“We had an outstanding weekend,” said Duane. “We are trying to get a handle on setting up Ayrton’s throttle stop and ignition, and I’m really excited about the gains we have already made in such a short amount of time this year.”

The next scheduled stop for the team will be the IHRA Division 4 Pro-Am race at Tulsa Raceway Park, April 18-20, 2008.

San Antonio Pro-Am Tour

The 2008 IHRA Division 4 Pro-Am Tour made its first stop at San Antonio Raceway on March 14-16, 2008, and Alesi & Ayrton Gerthe of New Breed Racing were excited to officially get this season started. Alesi and Ayrton competed in Quick Rod, an 8.90 Index class. Ayrton made his debut and is doing really well adjusting to the many different things about his move to a full size dragster. Although he ended each day after first round, the knowledge he gained will prepare him for upcoming races.
Alesi is much more comfortable this year in her dragster and on Saturday she went out first round, but on Saturday went out second round. Next stop for the team is the upcoming Amalie Oil Texas Nationals at San Antonio Raceway, April 3-6, 2008.

SAR Big Money Kick-Off Classic

New Breed Racing’s Alesi and Ayrton Gerthe kicked off the 2008 season at San Antonio Raceway’s Big Money Kick-Off Classic held February 22-24, 2008. Ayrton began his licensing upgrade on Friday evening and completed the required runs on Sunday to become an IHRA Quick Rod driver. “I was excited about getting my quick rod license last weekend, but the race was cancelled, so I had to do it this weekend. It was an exhilarating experience and I hope that many wins will follow later on in the year,” said Ayrton. Alesi went out second round on Saturday going .498 red and went out third round on Sunday when her car unexpectedly picked up several numbers. “I’m thrilled that Ayrton got his quick rod license because he has been looking forward to it for quite some time. He improved with every pass he made and I was very impressed with how well he did. It was great to get back into my car after what seemed like a long winter. My main focus coming into the weekend was to cut consistent lights and get ready for the upcoming divisionals. We had a minor car problem second round on Sunday, but luckily I had some great people help me out and we think we know what the problem is,” commented Alesi. The team will compete next at the IHRA Division 4 Summit Pro-Am Tour at San Antonio Raceway on March 14-16, 2008.

NGK renews New Breed Racing

Lisa Gerthe, owner of New Breed Racing is pleased to announce the return of NGK Spark Plugs to their partnership family. “NGK Spark Plugs has a long history in racing ‘sparking winners’, and we are grateful they selected us for another season of racing. We joined them in 2005 when Terry & Rhonda McMillen took us under their wing to mentor Alesi & Ayrton, and we have been working together ever since. You can find NGK on the web at www.ngksparkplugs.com ,” added Gerthe.

About NGK Spark Plugs:
“Since 1936, NGK Spark Plugs has been the world leader in technology, innovation, and world-class quality in the design of spark plugs and oxygen sensors. Today, NGK manufactures NGK Spark Plugs and NTK Oxygen Sensors for virtually every automotive manufacturer in the world. NGK has built a reputation for quality and reliability, and a commitment to excellence continues to be the driving force behind the company’s advanced research and development programs. With state-of-the-art manufacturing, inventory, and distribution facilities, NGK is dedicated to providing customers with world-class products and services. In addition to serving OE automotive and aftermarket customers, NGK also produces spark plugs for motorcycle, power sports, marine and small engine manufacturers. NGK also offers complimentary product lines including resistor caps, spark plug wires, and high performance cables. In North America, NGK is headquartered in Wixom, MI and maintains manufacturing, inventory, and distribution facilities in Irvine, CA, Sissonville, WV, and Chicago, IL.”

NGK Mission:
"We improve life through the environmentally responsible manufacture and precise application of advanced ceramic technologies for all of North America. Focused on innovation and teamwork, we contribute to local and global economic growth by matching our products to our customers' visions each day, exceeding their expectations in quality, value, service and performance." NGK Website

Alesi's 18th Birthday Dinner, Gruene, Texas

January 6, 2008 - Several friends and family members joined us for dinner to celebrate Alesi's 18th birthday in Gruene, Texas over the weekend. We arrived mid-afternoon and checked in at Gruene Mansion Inn Bed & Breakfast's Jackie's Hideway. Alesi was not aware our friends were joining us and we were able to keep the surprise until moments before everyone arrived. One of Alesi's favorite restuarants is the Gristmill and many months ago she asked to dine there on her birthday. We enjoyed spending the evening visiting with a few of our racing friends and we can't wait to get the 2008 race season started! Thanks everyone for a memborable birthday!!!

"The Gristmill River Restaurant: Situated on a bluff overlooking the Guadalupe River, this spectacular restaurant nestled under the shade of towering oak trees has been the perfect getaway for a unique casual dining experience for thirty years. Located in the historic district of Gruene just beneath the famous Gruene water tower, the restaurant opened in 1977 near New Braunfels on the banks of the Guadalupe River in the original Gruene Cotton Gin. The wooden structure burned to the ground in 1922, and all that remains of the water-powered mill today is the three story brick boiler room – now home to the Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar." www.gristmillrestaurant.com

"Gruene, Texas...Gently resisting change since 1872 and located between Austin and San Antonio, and a little behind the times." www.gruenetexas.com

Happy 18th Birthday Alesi!!!!!

It's hard to believe that eighteen years have passed since Alesi was "Rockdale's New Year's Baby of 1990". From barbie's and bows to driving dragsters, the time has flown and we've enjoyed every minute of it. Happy Birthday!!!!

PRI - Orlando, FL December 2007

New Breed Racing recently traveled to Orlando, FL to attend the 20th Annual PRI Trade Show at the Orange County Convention Center, December 6-8, 2007. They met up with teammates from Hoosier Thunder Motorsports and took in the show, along with other attractions in the area. The team traveled to nearby Kissimmee to renew the now annual grudge match at the go-kart track, along with the dragster experience. We were able to visit with old friends and make new ones, and the first annual Torco Racing Fuels Meet and Greet was a huge success...and according to Alesi, it was much better than last year's event at Howl at the Moon! We closed out our trip with a relaxing day in Orlando taking in the shops, playing a round of putt putt golf and dining at Bonefish Grill before we caught our flight back to Texas.

Rockdale's Cowboy Christmas Ball

December 1, 2007 - Alesi and Ayrton Gerthe attended the Rockdale Cowboy Christmas Ball held Saturday, December 1 at the Knights of Columbus Hall near Rockdale, TX. Alesi and Ayrton were asked by the Rockdale Chamber of Commerce to serve as a hostess and escort for the annual event, along with a few other students from area schools, in their ongoing effort to participate in community service. The crowd enjoyed Country & Western Swing Music and the event was another success.

2007 New Breed Racing Photo Story

Click on the link below to view our latest photo story...

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=7442906434092273714

Tigers Take Bell From Yoemen

For the first time since 2003, the Rockdale Tigers knocked off the Cameron Yoemen Friday, 43-21 at Tiger Field. For three consecutive years, the Cameron Yoe held the prized hardware that goes to the winner of the annual "Battle of the Bell." Both teams had already clinched playoff spots the week before, so the rivalry carried playoff position and not entry to the post-season. The Rockdale Tigers came out swinging early, taking command of the game on their first possession of the night and dominated the game. Rockdale put the nail in the coffin that would extend the lead to 43-21, with about six minutes left in the game. Rockdale racked up over 500 yards of offense, with 397 of the total coming on the ground. Meanwhile, the Yoemen were limited to just 77 yards on the ground, and 164 through the air. RHS players and students rang the brass railroad bell the schools have played for since 1954 through town well after midnight.

Ayrton received his Driver's License 10-16-2007

Hey friends, just wanted to give you a heads up if you are traveling the highways of Central Texas…Ayrton received his driver’s license yesterday afternoon and made his first solo trip this morning. Alesi called to let me know he made it school safely. He is very excited and is now anxious to get his Quick Rod licensing behind him as well.

Ayrton's '91 Chevy wins at Super Chevy Show - San Antonio Raceway

Ayrton Gerthe, a fifteen year old sophomore at Rockdale High School, received two awards at the Super Chevy Show held at San Antonio Raceway, October 5-7, 2007. Ayrton entered and won with his ’91 Chevy S-10 in the Mini Truck 2 WD Modified Category, and also won the Jegs “Young Star” Award.

Super Chevy Show – San Antonio, Texas

Rockdale, TX – New Breed Racing’s Alesi and Ayrton Gerthe competed at the Super Chevy Show as it made a stop at San Antonio Raceway, October 5-7, 2007. Team New Breed Racing’s Alesi Gerthe competed in the electronics bracket class, while Ayrton competed in the jr. dragster bracket class. “It really felt great to be back at San Antonio Raceway since I consider it my home track, and to see and compete with many of our racing friends,” said Alesi. “I adjusted to the regular bracket tree and went seven rounds over the two day period, and Saturday made it down to the final thirteen cars. It was different to not compete side by side like in quick rod. A few of the cars I raced were more than four seconds slower than me; I felt like I was back in the jr. 7.90 class chasing down a 12.90 car, and I was able to work on judging the top end at 160 mph,” commented Alesi. Ayrton Gerthe went several rounds in the jr. dragster class during the two day race, but he was really interested in the car show being held on the grounds that weekend. “This was probably one of my last races in a jr. since I’ll be sixteen tomorrow, and I’d been working real hard on getting my truck ready for the car show, so I had a busy weekend,” said Ayrton.
New Breed Racing plans to attend select bracket races this winter at San Antonio Raceway to prepare for next season. Alesi plans to compete in more national events, along with the Division 4 Pro-Am Series in Quick Rod, while Ayrton will make his debut in Quick Rod competing in the Division 4 Pro-Am Series and select national events.

Homecoming '07

Racing in Michigan

Torco Racing Fuels Northern Nationals August 3-5, 2007 at Knoll Gas Motorsports Park in Martin, Michigan.

2007 NHRA Western Conference Finals - Morrison, CO

New Breed Racing’s Alesi and Ayrton Gerthe checked one thing off of their “to do list” recently…race on the mountain at the NHRA Jr. Drag Racing Western Conference Finals at Bandimere Speedway near Denver, CO.

The team arrived at the track on Monday for the testing session, and competed or made time trials every day before departing Saturday night for the return trip to Texas.

“Racing at 9,000’ of adjusted altitude was an experience as well as traversing the multi-tiered facility, but we had a great time and Ayrton came home with some nice hardware, just not the one trophy he went for, the Wally,” said Lisa Gerthe.

Alesi competed in the Wicked West Coast 330’ Shootout, just barely missed making the 32 car field and competed in the 16-17 year old age group and went out in round two. Ayrton competed in the Mile High Shootout bracket race on Wednesday and went down to the final 15 cars and received a plaque, and on Saturday evening went to the quarter finals in the 15 year old age group and received a trophy and a $500 savings bond.

Pine Valley Divisional - July 13-15, 2007

Lufkin, TX - New Breed Racing attended the third stop of the Division 4 Summit Pro-Am Tour at Pine Valley Raceway. We made a few test passes Friday night, and on Saturday Alesi made a couple passes and Ayrton was only able to make one before the rains came and the event was postponed until the next day. Sunday morning brought clear skies and high humidity but we were able to get the races underway. Alesi and Ayrton both went out in round two and we loaded up and headed home late Sunday evening. Next stop for the tour is San Antonio Raceway in mid-August.