STACY, MINNESOTA -- Mayhem Racing's driver, Mark Utecht will be using the HANS device in this coming weekend's Lake Superior ProRally (Oct. 19-20). HANS stands for “Head And Neck Support”. It is a device that restrains the head in a high load impact attempting to prevent spinal injuries. The device fits between the driver's shoulders and the safety harness shoulder belts and has tethers that attach to the driver's helmet.

The device is manufactured by Hubbard/Downing Inc. which was co-founded by race driver Jim Downing, a leader in the search to make all motorsports as safe as possible. This is believed to be the first time the HANS will be used in Performance Rallying. "We are excited to see that our device is being used in new forms of motorsport" said Vince Tidwell of Hubbard/Downing Inc.

"It is through the generosity of our sponsor, Firstcom, that we can afford to have this device to use" said driver Mark Utecht. "I have an arthritic condition of the spine which makes me more susceptible to the types of injuries that the HANS device is designed to reduce. I am hoping that others will see the benefits of using the HANS device and join me in using this new development in driver safety."

Production GT is considered a "stock" class, allowing few modifications other than for safety and for comfort. The Mayhem Racing Eclipse has Sparco racing seats for driver and co-driver, Willans safety harnesses, a Mayhem Racing custom built roll cage, Auto Meter Gauges, a Terratrip rally computer, and a Terraphone intercom. Out front are Hella HID (High Intensity Discharge) Rally Lights in a custom pod, and the car rides on specialized Michelin Rally tires. The only performance enhancement is the addition of a GReddy Profec Boost controller.

Utecht and Lewis recently captured the SCCA ProRally Production GT Championship for 2001. Last season they won the SCCA ProRally Group 5 driver and co-driver aboard a Dodge Omni GLH. In addition, they were awarded the Jon Woodner Cup, presented to the most successful two-wheel drive competitors in the ProRally series.

Sponsors of the 2001 Mayhem Racing ProRally effort include:
· Morrie’s Subaru - Minnetonka, Minnesota
· FirstCom - business telephone communications
· ProGraphics - custom vinyl lettering for business and racing
· SpecialStage.com - on-line newsletter covering the sport of Performance Rallying.
· Warranty Solutions - warranty claims processing and consulting for automobile dealerships.

Mayhem Racing is based in Stacy, Minnesota, just north of the Twin Cities. Team manager is Mark's wife, Mary Utecht.