Panther Racing announced a primary sponsorship agreement with Lincoln Tech for the remainder of the 2006 season.

The Lincoln Tech automotive training school was the primary sponsor on Vitor Meira’s No. 4 Honda-powered Dallara at Kentucky Speedway on Aug. 13, and following a successful weekend, the partnership was renewed for the final two events of the year.

“We knew if Lincoln Tech and Panther Racing worked together for one weekend we could both see the positive benefits of this partnership,” Panther co-owner John Barnes said. “What’s exciting for us is Lincoln Tech activated with our marketing partner, ignition, during the weekend and experienced the marketing power of a sponsorship with Panther. We had a great time together in Kentucky and I anticipate two more great race weekends in Infineon and Chicago.”

Meira, one of six drivers eligible for the IndyCar Series championship, finished sixth at Kentucky, his 10th top-10 finish of the seasion. Meira is fifth in the IndyCar Series point standings with two races remaining on the schedule.

“We’re excited to be supporting Panther Racing’s winning team for the remainder of the season, said David Carney, chairman and C.E.O. of Lincoln Educational Services Corporation, the parent company of Lincoln Tech. “This sponsorship highlights Lincoln Tech’s commitment to preparing students for the exciting and fast-growing automotive and motor-sports career fields. We’re proud to see our graduates achieve their dreams through their Lincoln Tech education.”

Barnes and one of Meira’s race mechanics, Mike Armstrong, are graduates of Lincoln Tech. Panther’s CEO and team owner graduated from the school in the early 1970s and Armstrong completed his studies in 2003 with a degree in Automotive Service Management from Lincoln Tech’s Indianapolis location.

[IRL]