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By Rob King
On the heels of its successful PRO Superstar Shootout event in Bradenton , Florida , the Professional Racers Owners Organization , Inc . ( PRO ), a not-for-profit 501 ( c )( 6 ) business organization whose membership consists of the most popular and prestigious drag racing teams and drivers in the world , announced March 9 |
the decision to form PRO Promotions , LLC , a for-profit business entity .
“ The purpose of PRO Promotions , LLC is to create a new platform for the members of PRO to collectively promote the sport of professional drag racing and preserve the long-term sustainability of the sport and its competitors ,” said Doug Kalitta , Kalitta Motorsports .
While PRO has been in existence since 1991 as a not-for-profit business organization that provides services and other benefits to its membership
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, this new formation of PRO Promotions , LLC creates an even more powerful medium to showcase PRO ’ s combined strength by leveraging the members ’ collective intellectual properties and paving the way for larger partnerships with potential marketing and broadcast partners .
“ The success of The PRO Superstar Shootout cannot be overstated ,” said Richard Freeman , Elite Motorsports . “ The greatest success of all , however , was likely that which happened behind the scenes . Teams united like never before , solidifying the formation of a for-profit , collective entity as our natural next step .”
“ As motorsports continue to evolve , so must we ,” said Tony Stewart , Tony Stewart Racing Nitro . “ We believe there are opportunities on the horizon for the sport as a collective whole and we want to be uniquely positioned when those moments arise .”
“ PRO Promotions , LLC aims to advance the long-term interests of its members by engaging in promotional relationships and activities with various business entities ,” explained Paul Lee , Paul Lee Racing . “ Through the licensing of the members ’ collective intellectual properties and other assets , businesses can establish exciting promotional relationships and opportunities with the preeminent drag racing organizations of the world .”
Funny Car driver and Tasca Racing team owner Bob Tasca III , who has been selected as PRO Promotions , LLC spokesperson , said , “ One of the main goals of each opportunity we are looking into is to create more excitement for our sport , the fans , the teams , the drivers , and our partners – we will be sure to let everyone know as they happen .” DI
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PHOTOGRAPH BY LUKE NIEUWHOF |