The 2007 Champ Car Atlantic series gained another two confirmed entries at the weekend, with the US RaceTronics team confirming that David Garza and Carl Skerlong would drive in an expanded two-car operation.
Both drivers step up from lower categories, with Garza graduating from the Formula BMW USA series and Skerlong from the Formula TR Pro Series, via a brief outing in the Formula Renault UK Winter Series over the last couple of weeks.
"The 2007 season will open up a new chapter for the team in which we will expand to two cars," confirmed team owner Shane Seneviratne, "I am looking forward to the challenge. Carl and David are looking to further their careers and USRT is happy to be a part of that. They are very mature and focused and I know that they will succeed."
Skerlong will pilot the # 24 car in 2007, with Garza taking the #4 sister machine.
"I'm very excited to have finalised my plans with USRT so soon after winning the 2006 Formula TR 2000 Championship," Skerlong admitted, "It's great to join a team with the pedigree and track record of success that USRT has.
"The Atlantic series is undoubtedly one of the best proving grounds in open-wheel racing in North America and, running with a series as prestigious as Champ Car, I feel there is no better place to showcase my potential as a young American driver. I'm looking forward to furthering my relationship with Shane and the rest of the team as we begin our preparations for next season."
Garza, a friend of former USRT driver - and Forsythe Champ Car rookie - David Martinez, was equally excited to have the chance to step up to the Atlantic series.
"Joining USRT for 2007 is extremely exciting," he admitted, "I have been working with the team for the past few tests and am surprised and delighted to have the opportunity to become part of this team.
"I am looking forward to next year. I'm hoping to place in the top ten in points next year and fight for the Rookie of the Year championship. My goals are optimistic for my first year in the series, but I firmly believe in the team and trust that they will give me a competitive car next year."
Sponsorship for the two cars will be announced prior to the start of the season.
