Fargo, ND (December 17, 2010) – With a new focus and expanded team, Bunke racing is ready for the USCC cross-country snowmobile racing opener scheduled for this January 1, 2011 in Grafton, N.D. For 2011, Bunke Racing will feature a new team member, new sponsors and a new focus on building a cross-country team that will compete for years to come.

Based in the Fargo-Moorhead area and founded by Gabe Bunke, son of legendary Polaris racer Jerry Bunke, Bunke Racing already has a history of success with Gabe’s two Soo I-500 victories, a USCC Pro points sweep in 2007 and numerous USCC Pro class wins. Bunke will be looking to continue his success during the 2010-2011 season while building for the future with the newest Bunke Racing member, Semi-Pro rider Bobby Menne IV.

“I am looking forward to this season,” said Bunke. “I’ve wanted to start my own team for a while now and thanks to the support of my sponsors including Polaris and Premier Plastics Inc. it’s finally coming to life. I’m excited to be working with Bobby and for the future of Bunke Racing.”

Bobby Menne IV is the son of Bob Menne, former Polaris cross-country racer, Bunke Racing Team Manager and owner of Premier Plastics, Inc., one of Bunke Racing’s sponsors. Bobby is an up-and-comer and is already one of the top Semi-Pros on the USCC cross-country racing circuit.

“Racing with Gabe is a great experience,” said Menne. “I’ve learned so much and the season hasn’t even started yet. I can’t wait to go racing.”

With a focus on growing the team for the future, Bunke Racing has expanded its sponsorship hunt outside the industry. They’ve already found success there as well and for the 2010-2011 season the team has cut a sponsorship deal with Subway.

“One of our goals is to bring in the type of sponsors that will allow us to grow the team to fit our vision,” said Team Coordinator Bob Menne. “The Subway sponsorship is a big step in that direction and we’re proud to have them on board.”

“I see our team growing into something big in the near future,” said Bunke. “But first we have to concentrate on getting good results this season and with the early snow we’ve been able to prepare really well. We’ll be ready for Grafton and Grand Forks and with luck our fans will see us on the podium.”

Bunke Racing’s first event of 2011 will be the USCC Grafton 100, January 1, 2011, in Grafton, ND. Then it’s off to Grand Forks, ND, for the Grand Cities 100 January 2. For more info on Bunke Racing visit www.bunkeracing.com and www.onethirtyoneracing.com.