Gleeman Truck Parts was named as the naming rights sponsor of the annual 50-lap Speedcar race at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway on Saturday.

Finalising details with TPCR’s Managing Director Steven Green, Gleeman Parts Manager Glen Giffin said he was delighted to have his company again sponsor the 50-lapper for the second consecutive season.

“It is good to sponsor this race, it is good for our business and it helps raise the awareness of Speedcar racing,” Giffin said.

“This 50 lapper is gaining in status, largely because it is a 50-lapper. I would like to think that it will become the number two race in the country – second only to the national title,” he added.

Meanwhile Steven Green welcomed Gleeman Truck Parts and said the company’s involvement was also very beneficial to Speedcar racing.

“To have Gleeman Truck Parts onboard as naming rights sponsor is not only great for Speedcars, but also gives our 50-lapper more credibility.”

Gleeman Truck Parts also sponsor second generation driver Nathan Smee who is the defending winner of the 50-lap event following his victory in 2006. That was the last time the race was run after rain washed out the 2007 edition of the 50-lap marathon.

Steve Green topped up the prizemoney pool for the race to provide a further lucrative incentive for the Speedcar division. “I have always loved Speedcar racing and the very high calibre of competition the division puts on here at TPCR is very exciting. They certainly deserve to get a prizemoney bonus.”

With prizemoney from TPCR, plus the Gleeman Truck Parts sponsorship and a lap-by-lap money endorsement raised by the Speedcar Association of NSW, there is upward of $9,500 on offer for the 50-lapper making this race one of the most lucrative midget events of the season.

Queenslander Barry Velentino already has confirmed he will be a starter at TPCR, while New Zealander Stevie Walsh has also been named as a starter.