Spectra Premium Engineers to Partner with Dumoulin Competition to Develop Radiators

Laval, Quebec – Dumoulin Competition is pleased to announce a major sponsorship agreement between renowned racecar driver Jean-François Dumoulin and Spectra Premium Industries, a Canadian manufacturer and distributor of auto parts, for the 2016 NASCAR Pinty’s season. Jean-François’ raw talent, passion and perseverance were key to making this partnership a reality, allowing his participation in at least six events on the championship circuit in 2016 at the wheel of the Dodge # 04 Spectra Premium / Bernier Crépeau / Bellemare / MIA (refer to page 5 for race calendar details). Additionally, Spectra Premium engineers will closely with Dumoulin Competition crew members to develop a radiator for Jean-Francois Dumoulin’s car.

"In 2014, I had the chance to meet Jean-François for the first time at a social event where I discovered a gentleman who is a consummate professional and kind and compassionate human being. The entire Spectra Premium team is excited about being able to bring our passion and expertise to the table in the development of a new high performance product in collaboration with Dumoulin Competition. Jean-François was born behind the wheel of a racecar and his passion and enthusiasm makes him an ideal Spectra Premium brand representative," said Jason Best, Senior Vice-President, Aftermarket, Spectra Premium.

"This is a turning point for me and Dumoulin Competition. Several companies have been with us for many years now and I greatly appreciate their continued support. This is the first time in the NASCAR Pinty's series, however, that I have the privilege of welcoming a partner of this magnitude. This year I will proudly don my Spectra Premium racing attire, symbolizing their trusted, quality products, many of which are manufactured in Quebec," enthused Jean-François Dumoulin.

The Origins of the Partnership

Jean-Paul Blais has a long history in the world of motorsports, having served President, Player's Ltd., President, Player's Driver Development Program (1995 to 2000) and President, Grand Prix F1 of Canada (2002 to 2004). It was Jean-Paul Blais that instigated a first meeting between Jean-François Dumoulin and leaders of Spectra Premium in 2014.

Late in 1995, Jean-François Dumoulin caught the attention of the Player's Driver Development Program scouts (Ford and Formula Atlantic). He became one of the youngest drivers ever to be recruited by the legendary Player’s Driver Development Program and was touted as a strong contender for the championship title in Formula Ford (1996 and 1997 seasons). Demonstrating maturity both on and off the track, and combined with his raw talent, Jean-François Dumoulin, affectionately known as “The Kid” earned his place as a fierce competitor, even amid many seasoned veterans.

The synergy of goals and values led to the realization of a business partnership in 2015, during the most coveted event of the season, the Grand Prix Trois-Rivières. Everything was in place to create the momentum for a successful partnership. Discussions continued thereafter and culminated in a common long-term vision, a trusted, reliable partnership between Spectra Premium and the driver of car # 04 Spectra Premium / Bernier Crépeau / Bellemare / MIA.

"Thanks to Spectra Premium support we are working on building our own team, and the technical expertise and inspiration of this family business, that has made its mark around the globe, has given us the momentum we needed to shift to another gear," said Jean-François Dumoulin, two-time winner of the 24 Hours of Daytona.

Getting Race Ready

Dumoulin Competition is shifting gears in more ways than one. In 2015, the purchase of two cars by Eric Cherub (Motorsports In Action) afforded Jean-François Dumoulin the opportunity to race and build confidence on ovals tracks in the NASCAR Pinty’s series. This year the #04 Spectra Premium / Bernier Crépeau / Bellemare / MIA car is welcoming the highly specialized talent of new Crew Chief Robin McCluskey. The 2016 objective is to maximize the performance of the car # 04 Spectra Premium / Bernier Crépeau / Bellemare / MIA, and to ensure the best possible set-up and preparation of the cars.

Robin McCluskey began his career in Western Canada as a racecar driver in a regional series. Born into a motor racing family, he followed in the footsteps of his father and uncle by developing expertise in manufacturing high-performance chassis in McColl, Levitt and, in recent years, with White Motorsports.

"Robin is a true asset to the team, both in terms of his engineering expertise. We strive to develop high performance vehicles," said international driving instructor, Jean-François Dumoulin.

2016 NASCAR's Pinty Series – Season Opener

The first start of the 2016 season will take place on May 22 at the Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (Victoria Day Speedfest). "I can not wait to start the season at CTMP with a car developed by the trusted # 04 Spectra Premium / Bernier Crépeau / Bellemare / MIA team. I am confident that we can deliver a performance to meet and hopefully exceed expectations," declared Jean-François Dumoulin.

"Passion – Performance – Partnerships"

ABOUT PARTNERS

Spectra Premium Industries is a privately held company headquartered in Boucherville, Quebec, Canada. Spectra Premium is a team of more than 1,300 dedicated employees that specializes in auto parts manufacturing and distribution. The Company owns and operates four manufacturing plants and 17 warehouses. With its international distribution networks and unparalleled customer and after sales service, Spectra Premium is the automobile manufacturers’, auto technicians’ and handymen’s choice for reliable, quality parts and automotive systems. Trust your vehicle to Spectra Premium. www.spectrapremium.com

Bernier Crepeau Chrysler Fiat: With 25 years of experience, the family business has built an enviable reputation in the field of vehicle acquisition. If the future of this company is linked to the loyalty of its customers, it is also held by the reliability and strong communication of its team. This team is at your disposal, ready to listen to you, to hear you. Passion, care, and determination. A team willing to go the extra mile, with its ears wide open. http://www.berniercrepeau.com/.

Group Bellemare: Competitive and dynamic, Thomas Bellemare's innovative and growing family team is ready to take on any challenge. With support from senior members and a qualified team of managers, the third-generation Bellemares are reaching new heights. Built upon a solid past, the company moves forward with an exceptional team of experts and seeks a select group of clients. Our clients continue to benefit from our wide variety of services that target a large number of sectors. As a result, our visibility is constantly on the rise. Working with the Bellemare team has become a measure of success. Start off right by choosing a winning team! www.groupebellemare.com

MIA – Motorsports In Action: With over 50 years of combined Motorsport experience, MIA is making a name for itself in the industry in “La Belle Province”. Being trackside, situated at Autodrome St-Eustache, gives our clients “real time” results, testing their vehicles. One stop shopping is our strength, from high-end mechanics, exotic automotive maintenance, complete race car building and design to prestige paint and meticulous detailing. “Leave it, then enjoy it!” http://motorsportsinaction.com.

Trois-Rivières Mitsubishi is proud to be one of the first Mitsubishi dealers in Canada (opening in 2002). The commitment from Mitsubishi is defined by the quality, reliability and durability of its vehicles, notably with their 10-year warranty, the best in the industry! Pride, integrity and respect are the values of the Trois-Rivières Mitsubishi team. www.troisrivieresmitsubishi.com

FEATS AND HIGHLIGHTS JEAN-FRANÇOIS DUMOULIN

First podium in the NASCAR Canadian Tire series on May 17, 2015 (3rd place – Canadian Tire Motorsport Park)

The first Quebec-born driver to win twice the Rolex 24 in Daytona; 2004 (SGS and 2007 (GT).

Caught the attention of the renowned Player's Driver Development Program scout (Formula Ford and Formula Atlantic), became one of the youngest drivers ever to be recruited, and was touted as a strong contender for the championship title in Formula Ford (1996 and 1997 seasons).

Champion of the Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge GS, USA in 2003 (9 podiums).

Champion of the Grand-Am Continental Tire Sport Car Challenge ST, USA in 2002 (5 podiums).

In Montreal's 2009 edition of Nascar Nationwide, he finished his first race in 7th position aboard a badly damaged car and won the hearts of numerous fans and reporters.

In 2000, he was the Motorola Cup Series Vice-Champion, during a season that included a 1st place podium finish after having begun the race in 52nd position at theMolson Indy event in Ontario, Canada.

WEBSITES :

Spectra Premium : www.spectrapremium.com
Bernier Crépeau Chrysler Fiat : www.berniercrepeau.com
Groupe Bellemare : www.groupebellemare.com/
MIA - Motorsports In Action : http://motorsportsinaction.com/
Trois-Rivières Mitsubishi : www.troisrivieresmitsubishi.com
Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières : http://www.gp3r.com/
Dumoulin Compétition : www.dumoulincompetition.com
NASCAR Pinty's Series: http://hometracks.nascar.com/series/pintys-series
Facebook : http://www.facebook.com/dumoulincompetition
Twitter: @DumoulinDC / @jf_dumoulin / @DumoulinLP
Youtube : http://www.youtube.com/user/dumoulincompetition