What’s up with Ranger?

A reader asks, Dear AutoRacing1.com, I'm a bit confused with the Andrew Ranger situation at Mi-Jack/Conquest Racing. We keep hearing that he needs to bring more sponsorship money. Yet, it does not appear that Charles Zwolsman or Ryan Briscoe have brought any money and they are getting seat time. Why the double standard? It seems odd considering that Ranger finished 10th in points last year, is sitting 6th in points right now and has brought a sponsor we've actually heard of (Tide) to Champ Car. Any thoughts? Chris Silhavey, Stratford, CT

Dear Chris, We believe Zwolsman did bring some money to the table, but we can't speak for Briscoe as we hear he has none. What must be a real kick in the teeth for Ryan Hunter-Reay is the fact that Briscoe turned down the Team Australia ride and then criticized PKV Racing in the press saying they left him hanging until the 13th hour before turning him down. Meanwhile Hunter-Reay, who is American and who has actually won Champ Car races, has been completely overlooked and sits without a ride. The 0.6 overnight TV rating in the USA for Long Beach underscores the fact that Xenophobic American fans really want to see Americans competing for the wins. With Jimmy Vasser on part-time status, Champ Car only has one, AJ, and he is not a hero yet. Mark C.