Castroneves shines

UPDATE #2 With all the positive attention Helio Castroneves is bringing to the Indy Racing League through his appearance on "Dancing With the Stars," IRL president Brian Barnhart is doing his part to ensure the Brazilian driver's longevity on the show. Asked if he is voting for Castroneves, Barnhart said: "Absolutely. Computer. Cell phone. Home phone. I've got 'em all." Castroneves received the top score from the judges this week and has emerged as a contender to win the 12-celebrity competition. Barnhart said the exposure is priceless. "A staggering number of people watch that show," he said, "and as we know, it's hard not to like Helio." Indy Star

10/03/07 Helio Castroneves learned Tuesday what the "Dancing With the Stars" judges suggested the night before: That he deserved to continue with the popular television show. Castroneves, who received the highest judge total in Monday night's second round, was one of 10 celebrities advancing to next week's program. Indiana University graduate Mark Cuban, who owns the Dallas Mavericks, also advanced along with actress Jane Seymour, who did not attend Tuesday's show because her mother died. Model Albert Reed was eliminated from the competition based on the judges' scores and fan voting. Indy Star

10/02/07 Did you tune in to "Dancing with the Stars" last night on ABC? Helio Castroneves was absolutely amazing doing the mambo! He and Julianne Hough (last year's winner) received the top votes from the judges, and now the viewers will call in their votes. The second round results, after the viewers vote, will be announced tonight on ABC, 9:00 pm – 10:00 pm ET. Please check your local listing for your location and time zone. After seeing these first two dances (Fox Trot and the Mambo), we would not be surprised if Helio and Julianne win the championship this season. There will be four more weeks of competition after this week. Regardless if Helio wins the title, the publicity the IRL is getting from this is a real coup and a feather in their PR cap because they are exposing their series to millions of potential new racing fans for many nights in prime time.