HVM Racing welcomes new team manager

[HVM Racing press release]

Indianapolis, Ind. (February 7, 2012) – Lotus HVM Racing welcomes Shane Seneviratne as the team’s new manager effective immediately. Seneviratne, former principal of US RaceTronics, has an 18 year history in Indy Lights and Atlantics, amassing multiple championships.

As part of Dorricott Racing from 1993-2004, Seneviratne was an integral part of winning championships in 1999, 2001 and 2002 with drivers Oriol Servia, Townsend Bell and Jon Fogarty respectively. The 1999 championship was highlighted by Dorricott Racing becoming the first team to achieve the top 3 positions in the Indy Lights Championship.

In late 2004 Seneviratne formed US RaceTronics to compete in the 2005 Atlantic Championship and immediately achieved success with multiple top 5 finishes. Between 2006 and 2008 success continued with 3 poles, 12 podiums and 1 win while the team consistently challenged for the championship.

In 2009 US RaceTronics teamed with Co-Team Principal Imran Safiulla to form Team Stargate Worlds. The newly formed partnership generated instant success in grooming pilot Simona De Silvestro to achieve a female record of 4 poles and 4 wins in the 2009 Atlantic Championship. In the team’s 6 year history it has garnered 5 wins, 7 poles, and 21 podiums finishes as part of the Cooper Tire Atlantic Championship Series.

Lotus HVM Racing’s team owner Keith Wiggins is confident that the transition of team managers is a win-win for everyone involved. “First of all, we would like to thank Vince for over 11 years of dedication to our organization. We also welcome the appointment of Shane as our new Team Manager. Like many of us when we progressed through our careers, he brings qualities demonstrated in the lower categories to the next level of Series with fresh determination and proven organizational and people skills, vital to our progress”.

Seneviratne is thrilled to be joining HVM Racing and eager to face the challenges of his new position. “I’m excited to be part of HVM Racing and happy to help Simona once more continue her remarkable racing career.  The new IndyCar brings new challenges to teams that have not had to be dealt with for many years. I’m looking forward to contributing to this team in overcoming these challenges, and in strengthening the great chemistry that exists within HVM Racing.”

Seneviratne fills the position vacated by outgoing team manager Vince Kremer who has accepted a new position with Firestone Indy Lights. Kremer said his decision was not an easy one. “It is with bittersweet regret that I move on from HVM Racing to pursue an opportunity with the Firestone Indy Lights series.  Having been a part of this operation since 1998 I have amassed many good memories and lifelong friendships.  I wish nothing but continued success for HVM, Simona DeSilvestro, Entergy and all of our commercial partners.  I would also like to personally express my thanks and gratitude to Keith Wiggins for giving me the opportunity to grow professionally within the industry.”

Of the HVM team having worked with Seneviratne in the past, none is more excited to be working with him again than HVM pilot Simona De Silvestro. “Shane is awesome. I’m really excited to have the chance to work with him again. We had great success together in 2009 and hopefully it will be the same here in IndyCar.”