Rick Galles

Pep Boys Indy Racing League team owner Rick Galles announced Monday that he has formed a new partnership with ECR, a company owned by Roger Elliot and Tommy Constantine.

ECR will own a minority interest in the Galles team, renamed Galles ECR Racing. ECR intends to form a Scottsdale, Ariz.-based sister team, in which Galles will own a minority interest.

"Roger and Tommy have a strong marketing and business background, and I think they will be a strong asset as our team goes forward in the IRL," Galles said. "Being involved with their racing program gives us an opportunity to have all of the advantages of a two-car team without so many of the headaches."

Elliot set up a partnership in Scottsdale with U.S. F2000 driver and entrepreneur Constantine. Elliott is no stranger to motorsports. He served as vice president of business operations for Forsythe Racing in CART from 1994-98 and then was director of business development for British American Racing in the United Kingdom.

"This is a great opportunity for all of us because we can share information and ideas across the board," Elliot said. "Tommy and I are absolutely committed to winning the IRL championship and the Indianapolis 500 with Rick Galles."

Constantine has several business holdings, including real estate and an aviation company. His motorsports background includes sponsorship acquisition through his company Motorsport Marketing, Ltd., which he founded in 1992. He also competes in the U.S. F2000 Championship with sponsorship from the Mexmil Company, which will continue through 2000.

"Combining Roger's and my business experience, with Rick's racing expertise, creates an environment where everyone benefits from each others strengths," Constantine said. "We will share resources and information on both the business and the racing side. This will ensure that the entire package is strong. As a driver, I know how important that is."

Galles ECR Racing introduced two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Al Unser Jr. as its driver for the 2000 series Tuesday. Unser will drive a G Force/Aurora/Firestone entry.

source: http://www.indyracingleague.com/press/1999/series/galles-112299.html