HOWARD, SNYDER AND DISSINGER LEAD CLOSE POINT BATTLES AT GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY, FOUR FEATURES SET FOR SATURDAY 
 
BECHTELSVILLE, PA May 17, 2012 . . . The chase for the championships could get even tighter than they are after the four feature program is completed at Grandview Speedway on Saturday night, May 19th.

There will be two 25-lap features for the Sportsman stock cars, a 20 lapper for the Late Models and a 30-lap main event for the NASCAR 358 Modifieds. Going into the night’s racing, starting at 7:30 p.m., Duane Howard has just a 154 point edge over Jeff Strunk who is going for a 10th track title. Doug Manmiller sits with 1530 points just 224 points behind. Keep in mind a feature race victory rewards the winner with 300 points.

And in the Late Models Danny Snyder has a one point edge over Chuck Schutz while Dave Dissinger leads the new Sportsman division standings by just 37 points over Brad Brightbill.

All the standings could be shuffled on Saturday night in the BPG Racing sponsored night of racing that also includes a full series of qualifying events leading up to feature races in all three divisions.

Adult admission for the four feature event show is just $15.00 while youngsters 12 and under are admitted free. Spectator gates open at 5:30 p.m.

The first 150 adult admissions will receive a free ticket to NASCAR Sprint Cup qualifying sessions and ARCA 200 racing at Pocono Raceway on June 9th.

Then on Sunday (May 20) the first of several Sunday Small Car Series events will be presented with the green flag falling at 2 p.m. Included in the racing action will be Legends cars, Slingshots, 600 Modifieds and 270 and 600cc Micro Sprints. Adult admission is $5. Those showing rain checks from the Saturday night racing action will be admitted for just $4.

Grandview Speedway is located on Passmore Road, just off Route 100, in Bechtelsville, PA, 10 miles north of Pottstown. For information check in at www.grandviewspeedway.com telephone 610.754.7688.

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HOLIDAY DOUBLEHEADER KICKS OFF WITH SEAWAY MALL RANKIN CANCER RUN NIGHT AT MERRITTVILLE

For Immediate Release from Jim Irvine Merrittville Speedway Public Relations

Thorold, Ontario (May 17,2012) – The first holiday doubleheader of 2012 kicks off Saturday May 19th when the Seaway Mall presents a 5 Division Lucas Oil Weekly Racing Series action-packed program that will feature the J&S Heating and Air Conditioning Modified Lites in a Stars North Tour Event.

“Race fans will sure get their racing fixes over the Holiday Weekend,” relates (Merrittville GM) Erica Bicknell-Jones, “for anyone 18 and under ... it’s another $5 Grandstand Admission Deal so it’s a great value too!”

With two events in the books to date at Merrittville Speedway in 2012 for the J&S Heating and Air Conditioning Modified Lites – two former champions – Shawn Sliter and his nephew and defending champion Josh Sliter have both visited Victory Lane.

The Seaway Mall - located at 800 Niagara Street features over 120 friendly stores and services and offers free wireless internet throughout the mall.

The Seaway Mall is open Monday to Friday from 10 AM to 9 PM, Saturday from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM and Sundays from 12 to 5 PM.

Shoppers can also visit the Seaway Mall on line at www.seawaymall.com on your I Phone by downloading the free Seaway Mall App from the iTunes store.

The Seaway Mall goes WAY beyond your expectations!  Seaway Mall offers a variety of unique shopping and dining experiences and is home to over 120 stores and services including Le Chateau, the Shoe Warehouse, Bonnie Togs, and a brand new Pennington’s. Seaway Mall is simply the best place to shop for everything you need for your family, home and for yourself.

Representatives from the Rankin Cancer Run will be set up with information on the 5th Annual Event set for May 29th. For further information or to make an online donation visit  www.rankincancerrun.com. Many of Merrittville Speedway’s Officials and fans will participate in the event as well as drivers.

When the gates open at 5:30 May 19th, Students 18 years of age and younger are reminded that like all Saturday Nights in May – Grandstand Admission is ONLY $5!

Race fans of all ages are invited to come early as well for another edition of the Clint and Dana pre-race show that features driver interviews, recaps of the previous week and a preview of upcoming events and more.

Showtime for the 5 Division Lucas Oil Weekly Racing Series Event is 7 PM.

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DIRTcar 358-Modified Series Kicks Off Season with Ontario Swing

Cornwall Motor Speedway to host Series Opener

Merrittville Hosts Traditional DIRTcar 358 Modified Series Victoria Day Special

WEEDSPORT, N.Y. — May 16, 2012 — The 2012 DIRTcar 358 Modified Series gets the green light this weekend with two events at two long-time DIRTcar-sanctioned facilities as part of the Victoria Day celebration in Canada.

Cornwall (Ontario) Motor Speedway will host the Series opener on Sunday, May 20th. Merrittville Speedway in Thorold, Ontario, will host their traditional Victoria Day event on Monday, May 21st.

Last season Dale Planck of Cortland, N.Y., Stephan LaFrance of Brockville, Ontario-Canada captured the two series events at Cornwall, while Brett Hearn of Sussex, N.J., drove to victory lane at Merrittville Speedway.

“Each track offers a unique challenge, but they are both premier facilities that afford us an opportunity to race in front of big crowds and enthusiastic fans,” said Planck, pilot of the Rez-X Racing machines. “You have to bring your best game to compete in the DIRTcar 358 Modified Series these days. Danny (Johnson) has won the championship back-to-back now, so we’re all going to be aiming to knock him off his perch.”

Johnson, driving for Mike Payne Motorsports, is the defending champion of the series and is expected to be in competition for a third consecutive crown in 2012.

Each event is 100-laps in distance and Planck says that provides a challenge all in itself.

“Our typical weekly races aren’t very long so setup is critical because those tracks change a great deal from the start to the finish of those 100-lap races. It isn’t very often that you see someone dominate from start to finish at these extra distance races with the changes that take place during them. It will be exciting I know that.”

Gates open at Cornwall on Sunday, May 20 for the Minute Auto Wash presents the Gaetan’s Chip Stand Canadian Nationals 100 at 3:30 p.m. with Group Time Trials on deck for 6:15 p.m. and the first qualifying race at 7:00 p.m.

At Merrittville Speedway on Monday, May 21, it is the Zavitz Financial Strategies & Employee Benefits 100 with gates open at 3:00 p.m. with Group Time Trials slated for 6:30 p.m. and the first qualifying race at 7:05 p.m.

For more information visit www.dirtcar.com or specific event information www.cornwallspeedway.com or www.merrittvillespeedway.com

DIRTcar 358 Modified Series Schedule

Sunday, May 20th Cornwall Speedway Cornwall, Ontario 100 100

Monday, May 21st Merrittville Speedway Merrittville, Ontario 100 100

Thursday, June 21st Mohawk International Speedway Akwesasne, New York 75 100

Tuesday, July 3rd Ransomville Speedway Ransomville, New York 75 100

Sunday, September 2nd Cornwall Speedway Cornwall, Ontario 100 150

Friday, September 7th Autodrome Granby Granby, Quebec 75 150

Friday, September 14th Mohawk International Raceway Akwesasne, NY 75 150

Friday, September 21st Canandaigua Motorsports Park Canandaigua, NY 75 150

Saturday, September 22nd Brighton Speedway Brighton, Ontario 100 100

Wednesday, October 3th Cayuga County Fair Speedway Weedsport, NY 75 150

Thursday, October 4th Rolling Wheels Raceway Elbridge, NY 75 150

Saturday, October 6th New York State Fairgrounds Syracuse, NY 150 150

Saturday, October 13th Brockville Speedway Brockville, Ontario 100 150

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Sprints without Wings at Mercer Raceway Park this Saturday
 
Mercer, PA (May 16, 2012):  Fans will get a special treat this Saturday at Mercer Raceway Park. The Sprints are going topless! The Buckeye Outlaw Sprint Series will make their first visit to the Park.
 
Don't let the "Outlaw" name fool you. Founded just one year ago by Aaron Fry, a 14-year veteran of the sport, the B.O.S.S. tour offers old-style racing action. There are very few rules to this game, and no memberships to buy. The racers can use any tires that they want and just about any powerplant. But, they cannot use any wings."If it looks like a Sprint car, it can run. Let the best man win!" Fry exclaimed.
 
The B.O.S.S. racing format is pretty simple, too. There will be no time trials to delay the program and ruin the racing surface. The heat race line-ups will be based on the pill draw system, and the top racers will re-draw for for their starting positions in the feature event. "This leads to some pretty exciting racing for the fans," Fry explained.
 
The B.O.S.S. series had its opening race of the season at Fremont Speedway last week, and Jamie Miller pulled off the biggest upset of his career. Miller pilots a winged 305 Sprint at the track, but he had just the right combination to take the win. Miller is expected to be just one of the drivers coming into town to try his luck.
 
A B.O.S.S. name familiar to local fans is the West Virginia Wild Thing, Mark Cassella. He's back in the saddle again and he's ready to make up for lost time!
 
The biggest question on everybody's mind is who, amongst the Luxaire Heating & Cooling Sprint Car regulars, will dare to go without the big wing? Well, we know that veterans like Rod George,  Bob Felmlee, and Scott Priester have done so in the past. But the word is circulating that a pair of drivers named Brandon are ready to do so as well. That's right, Brandon Matus and Brandon Spithaler will take the challenge. Spithaler already has a win at the Park this year, buit it came with that wing. Can he do it without one?
 
Joining the B.O.S.S. Sprints will be the Ti22 Performance Outlaw Sprint Warriors, so even the die-hard winged Sprint fans will get their fix.
 
The Approved Toilet Rentals 358 Modifieds will return to action. Can Frank Guidace continue his winning ways? Or, will his nemesis, Jimmy Holden, overcome his early season mechanical woes to get his first win of the year?
 
The Precise Racing Products Stcok Cars, the Big Daddy's Speed Center/Rock Concrete Modified Lites, and the Mini Stocks will complete the racing card.
 
All of this racing action will be yours for just $15 for adults, $13 for seniors, and $7 for students. As always, children 8 and under are free. The Family Pass will be just $32 for this special event. Pit passes will be $30.
 
As usual, the gates will open at 4 p.m., and racing will begin at 7 p.m. Remember that there are no time trials Saturday, so be early. You won't want to miss a single lap of the exciting back 'em in style of the non-wing Sprints.
 
Looking ahead to the holiday weekend, Saturday Night Live racing will return to Mercer Raceway Park. Then, on Sunday, the speedway will host its first truck and tractor pulling event of the year. The All American Spring Nationals World Championship Pulling Event will be presented by R n F Sales.

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Herbison shows flair for the dramatic again on Brockville Opening Night
 
BROCKVILLE-Chris Herbison knows how to write a script for dramatic last laps.  Last year, on the final lap of the final race, a pass netted him a track championship.  Saturday night, the Love Bug was at it again, with a final turn, final lap pass for the opening night victory in the Sportsman division at Brockville Ontario Speedway.
 
The Brockville driver carefully and steadily made his way to second place in the 22 car field as newcomer Corey Wheeler turned heads leading the first 24 circuits.  Herbison started to apply the heat in the final five circuits and made his move on the final lap pulling alongside down the back straightaway.  The two were still dead even coming off the final turn, but it was Herbison four thousandths of a second in front at the finish line.  Wheeler settled for second in front of Ryan Poole, Ghislain Lacombe and Steve Barber.
 
In the 30 lap Modified main event, Danny O Brien waged a race long battle with Dale Planck.  The multi time track champion pulled away in the closing laps for a comfortable win.  Bobby Herrington stuck with the lead duo for the final half a race for a solid third followed by Matt Billings and Pat O Brien.
 
Brockville Ontario Speedway returns to action next Saturday night, May 19th with a full race program plus a special 40 lap event for the Sportsman division.  The engines will be turned loose at 7 pm.
 
Modifieds: Danny O Brien, Dale Planck, Bobby Herrington, Matt Billings, Pat O Brien, Kyle Dingwall, Lee Gill, Bryan Rogers, Tim O Brien, Luke Whitteker, Stephane LaFrance, Gage Morin, Jason Riddell, John Mulder, Luke Stewart, Steve Bilow, Andy Lloyd, Roger Levesque, Marc Therrien, Joe Banks, Adam Turner, Brian McDonald
 
Sportsman:Chris Herbison, Corey Wheeler, Ryan Poole, Ghislain Lacombe, Steve Barber, Ryan Arbuthnot, Jessica Power, Dana Aikins, Bruce Makinson, Dylan Evoy, Steve Billings, Dylan Breen, John Mills, Tabatha Murphy, Gilles Godard, Doug O Blenis, Jason Shipclark, Kenny Polite, Ryan Robertson, John Ferguson, Sheldon Hoogwerf, Jason Cummings

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HOWARD GOES TO VICTORY LANE WITH BIG DIAMOND MODIFIED WIN
 
Duane Howard picked up the win in the Station House 358 Modified feature at the Big Diamond Speedway.  Tim Fitzpatrick and Corey Renninger earned their first wins of the 2012 season in the USS Achey Sportsman division.  Marc Berzowski and Mario Donatti were the winners in the Wooden Keg Tavern Roadrunner Twin 15 Feature events, sponsored by Savage 61 Dodge of Reading, PA.  Five new winners in one night of racing on the 3/8 track at the Big Diamond Speedway!
 
Howard wasted no time in getting to the front in the 25 lap Station House 358 Modified feature event.  After lining up 13th on the starting grid, Howard moved into third on the second lap, behind the race leader, Danny Hieber and second place, Jeff Strunk.
 
Hieber, who travels nearly three hours from his Newtown, PA home to compete at Big Diamond on Friday nights, took the lead away from polesitter, Ron Haring, Jr. at the start of the race.
 
A multi car incident occurred as the field raced through turn four, bringing out an immediate caution.  Craig VonDohren was able to rejoin the rear of the field while Dale Hartz and Jim Bobbitt, Jr. exited to the pits for some quick repairs.  The cars of Ricky Yetter and Gary Wagner were towed from the track, their night was over almost before it began.
 
Hieber maintained the lead on the restart as Strunk used some three wide racing to move into second by lap two as Howard followed.  Strunk and Howard battled for second until the racing was interrupted by several caution flags before lap five could be scored.  As Howard looked to the inside, Strunk moved to the outside of Hieber as a three way battle for the lead continued down the backstretch.  Strunk held a slight advantage entering turn three before the caution waved a second time.  This time, Howard went to the inside to take second as Hieber maintained control.  A third caution became necessary before lap five could be scored as Meme DeSantis used the extreme high line to move into top five contention, running three abreast with fourth place Mike Mammana and Rick Laubach.
 
Hieber was the leader through lap six but Howard had the advantage when lap seven was scored.  With Howard on the inside and Hieber sticking to the outside, the pair raced down the straighaway.  Regrettably, contact was made as the leaders headed to turn one.  "I thought I had him cleared," Howard would state later.  "But I didn't.  I hate for that to happen."  Hieber would spin in turn one, bringing out the caution once again.
 
Howard took the outside on the restart with Strunk in second.  DeSantis was now up to third followed by Mammana and Laubach.  Laubach made his move into fourth one lap later.
 
By the half way mark, Howard had caught the back of the field but he had built up a substantial lead and could pick and choose his moves around the lapped traffic.
 
The top four spots remained unchanged as Howard led Strunk who had a several car advantage over DeSantis who in turn had put some daylight between his Harvey Bittler #88d and Laubach.  The battle was for fifth as Mammana tried to hold on to his first top five of the season as he was challenged by VonDohren who had raced his way from the rear of the field after the lap one incident.  With two laps to go, VonDohren would claim the fifth spot.
 
Howard took his first Big Diamond win since the 2010 season as Strunk, DeSantis, Laubach and VonDohren completed the top five at the finish line.
 
Tim Fitzpatrick picked up his first win of the season in the Schaeffer Harley Davidson T102 when he won the Opening Day hold-over feature event for the USS Achey Sportsman.  Billy Moyer was the early race leader but a broken drive line ended his bid for a win on lap three.  From that point on, it was all Fitzpatrick as Mike Lisowski earned his best run of the season in second.  Doug Hendricks followed in third with New Egypt invaders, Mike Lyons and Jim Houseworth completing the top five.
 
It was an emotional win for Corey Renninger of Pottsville, PA who debuted a retro style body on his Sportsman car - a body done completely in paint with many ties and dedications to people who have been important to Renninger's racing career and to the members of his crew.
 
Flat tires sent the leader and second place runner, Wayne Witmer and Mike Lisowski to the pits during a lap seven caution but Renninger had it all his way from that point on.  Charles Webber, 2011 Sportsman Rookie of the Year, closed in on Renninger in the final laps but it was Renninger at the checkered flag followed by Webber, Daryl Dissinger, Ray Woodall and Doug Hendricks.
 
Marc Berzowski picked up his first win in the first of the Twin 15 Feature events sponsored by Savage 61 Dodge for the Wooden Keg Roadrunners.  Berzowski led all fifteen laps on the way to the checkered as two time winner, Joey Brennan took second away from Shon Elk in the final laps.  Christian Donatti and Chip Kennedy completed the top five.
 
In the second 15 lap feature, Donatti took over the lead in a heated three way battle with Berzowski and Terry Kramer.  Contact was made between the leader Berzowski and Kramer.  It was all Donatti from that point on as he earned his first win over Elk, Brennan, Jim Kost and Kennedy.
 
Modifieds (25 laps)  1. Duane Howard 2. Jeff Strunk 3. Meme DeSantis 4. Rick Laubach 5. Craig VonDohren 6. Mike Mammana 7. Keith Hoffman 8. Glenn Strunk 9. Kevin Albert, Jr. 10. Gary Hager 11. Nathan Klinger 12. Andy Burkhart  13. Dale Hartz  14. Doug Manmiller 15. Danny Hieber 16. Jim Bobbitt, Jr.  17. Bill Gensler 18. Ronnie Tobias, Jr. 19. Ron Haring, Jr. 20. John Willman 21. Colt Harris 22. Brad Arnold 23. Brian Houseknecht 24. Ray Swinehart 25. Ricky Yetter 26. Gary Wagner 27. Sammy Piazza

Sportsman (20 lap feature-heldover from 4/1/2012  1. Tim Fitzpatrick 2. Mike Lisowski 3. Doug Hendricks 4. Mike Lyons 5. Jim Houseworth 6. Ray Woodall, Jr. 7. Charles Weber  8. Kevin Beach, Jr. 9. Daryl Dissinger 10. Kaitie McCardle 11. Harry Landis 12. Andy Cozze 13. Heath Metzger 14. Mike Glass 15. Corey Renninger 16. Josh Hertzog 17. Andy Fayash 18. Shawn Fitzpatrick 19. Wayne Witmer 20. Bud Vidal 21. Billy Moyer, Jr.
 
Sportsman (20 lap feature)  1. Corey Renninger 2. Charles Webber 3. Daryl Dissinger 4. Ray Woodall, Jr. 5. Doug Hendricks 6. Jim Houseworth  7. Mike Glass  8. Wayne Witmer 9. Mike Lisowski 10. Shawn Fitzpatrick 11. Kaitie McCardle 12. Andy Cozze 13. Danny Lorenzi 14. Mike Diehl 15. Harry Landis 16. Mike Lyons 17. Tim Fitzpatrick 18. Heath Metzger 19. Kevin Beach, Jr. 20. Bud Vidal 21. Josh Hertzog
 
Roadrunner Feature #1 (15 lap feature)  1. Marc Berzowski  2. Joey Brennan  3. Shon Elk  4. Christian Donatti  5. Chip Kennedy  6. Terry Kramer, Jr.  7. TJ Fitzpatrick  8. Jared Siegfried  9. Dave Long, Jr. 10. Glen Rowan  11. Jim Kost  12. Jon Schlauch  13. Jesse Krasnitsky  14. Connor Horam  15. Brian Buchinski
 
Roadrunner Feature #2 (15 lap feature)  1. Christian Donatti 2. Shon Elk  3. Joey Brennan  4. Jim Kost  5.  Chip Kennedy  6. TJ Fitzpatrick  7. Glen Rowan  8. Terry Kramer, Jr.  9. Jared Siegfried  10. Brian Buchinski  11. Dave Long, Jr. 12. Marc Berzowski  13. Jesse Krasnitsky  14. Connor Horam
 
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MANMILLER AND DESANTIS WIN NASCAR MOD FEATURES, EGRIE SR. TOPS IN LATE MODELS AND WHITMOYER WINS IN SPORTSMAN AT GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY
 
BECHTELSVILLE, PA May 13, 2012 . . . Four feature races produced four first time winners in the Whelen Engineering NASCAR sanctioned stock car racing events at Grandview Speedway on Saturday night.

Doug Manmiller and Meme DeSantis won the 30-lap NASCAR 358 Modified features while Lou Egrie Sr. took top honors in the 20-lap Late Model feature and Craig Whitmoyer was tops in the 25-lapper for Sportsman.

Brad Missimer went to the front in the first 30-lap Modified feature of the evening and held the top spot until two thirds of the feature had been completed. The 21st lap had several cautions that eliminated a few cars from competition and at the 22nd lap marker Doug Manmiller, coming from 13th starting spot, put the GMI First Solutions No. 46 in front of the pack.

Manmiller, who calls Shoemakersville home, held off the late race challenge of three feature winner Duane Howard (Oley) to grab the victory by a narrow margin in the Mobil 1 sponsored feature that had been rained out on May 5. Second spot went to Howard followed by Jeff Strunk (Pottstown), Craig VonDohren (Boyertown) and Brad Missimer (Bechtelsville).

In the 20-lap Late Model veteran Bill Henning led more than half of the event before Mark Minotto spun in the first turn, with 12 laps completed, and Henning was unable to avoid him just nipping the Minotto racer. The contact sent a disappointed Henning to the pits and gave the lead to Lou Egrie Sr.  The balance of the feature race had Egrie (Huntington Valley) holding off the strong challenges of Danny Snyder to gain his first feature win since 2004. Snyder (Green Lane) took second followed by point leader Chuck Schutz (Pottstown), Dallas Redenbacher (Spring City) and Jason Miller (New Tripoli).
 The second 30-lapper for the night for the NASCAR 358 Modifieds had Jarrad Miller going to the front at the start. After just two laps Craig VonDohren and Doug Manmiller tangled in Turn 2 with VonDohren eliminated from competition. Addison Meitzler took the lead on the restart and looked like he was on his way to victory with his self owned No. 21.

With just one lap remaining a tire problem forced Meitzler to come to a stop bringing out a caution giving the lead to Meme DeSantis. The final lap had DeSantis (Temple), at the wheel of the NOSTEROIDS.ORG/Kutztown Auto Co. No. 88D, leading the way to the checkered flag and picking up his first win at the Berks County oval this season. Jarrad Miller (Barto) came home second. Kevin Hirthler (Boyertown), followed by Mike Gular (Green Lane) and Cliff Quinn (Coopersburg).
 Tricky track conditions produced a 25-lap Sportsman feature that had numerous cautions. John Kovatch IV set the pace in the early laps with Joe Funk charging to the front on the 7th circuit of the one-third-mile, banked clay oval. A multi-car accident at the 14 lap marker closed the field up behind Funk with Brad Brightbill putting heavy pressure on.

In the closing laps Funk and challenger Brightbill made contact in turn two and costing both drivers the opportunity for a victory as Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg) took over the lead on the final lap and went on to win his first feature of the season. Second spot went to Mike Lisowski (Minersville) followed by Dave Dissinger (Hamburg), John Kovatch IV and Kevin Beach (Minersville).
 
Victories in the two eight lap qualifying events for the Late Models went to Danny Snyder and Bill Henning. Sportsman eight lap qualifiers were won by Erik Renninger, John Kovatch IV and Corey Sechrist. And in the NASCAR 358 Modified 12 lap qualifying events wins were earned by Jeff Strunk, Duane Howard, Addison Meitzler and Brad Missimer. The Modified consolations, each 10 laps, were won by Shawn Reimert and Jordan Umbenhauer.

Racing action returns to the one-third-mile, banked clay oval at Grandview Speedway on Saturday, May 19th, 7:30 p.m. with the tripleheader show of NASCAR 358 Modifieds, Late Models and Sportsman sponsored by BPG Racing. A 25-lap Sportsman feature rained out on May 5th will kick off the night making for a four feature show.  Modifieds run in a 30 lap feature while Late Models and Sportsman top their night with 20 lap features. Adult admission is just $15 while youngsters 12 and under are admitted FREE.

 MAY 5TH RAINED OUT NASCAR 358 MODIFIED FEATURE - 30 LAPS: 1. Doug Manmiller 2. Duane Howard 3. Jeff Strunk 4. Craig VonDohren 5. Brad Missimer 6. Terry Meitzler 7. Jordan Umbenhauer 8. Brad Grim 9. Meme DeSantis 10. Chad Brachman 11.Ryan Grim 12. Shawn Reimert 13. Chris Esposito 14. Michael Weinert 15. Eric Biehn 16. Jon Kellner Jr. 17. Nate Christman 18. Wade Hendrickson 19. Tommy Scheetz Jr. 20. Dan Waisempacher 21. Bobby Gunther Walsh 22. Kyle Weiss 23. Kevin Hirthler 24. Mike Gular 25. Don Norris Jr. 26. Ray Swinehart 27. Jeremy Banos 28. Jon Kellner Sr.
 
NASCAR LATE MODELS, 20 LAPS: 1. Lou Egrie Sr. 2. Danny Snyder 3. Chuck Schutz 4. Dallas Breidenbach 5. Jason Miller 6. Wayne Pfeil 7. Steve Nederostek 8. Rick Todorow 9. Drew Weisser 10. John Giesler 11. Ron Chrisman 12. Dirk Rimrott 13. David Ogin 14. Ron Kline 15. Kory Fleming 16. Sam Schlosberg 17. Andy Ressler 18. Mark Minotto 19. Bill Henning 20. Steve Butler 21. Mike Kellner
 
NASCAR 358 MODIFIED FEATURE, 30 LAPS: 1. Meme DeSantis 2. Jarrad Miller 3. Kevin Hirthler 4. Mike Gular 5. Cliff Quinn 6. Ron Seltman 7. Duane Howard 8. Doug Manmiller 9. Jeff Strunk 10. Chad Brachman 11. Tommy Scheetz Jr. 12. Brad Grim 13. Kyle Weiss 14. Ryan Grim 15. Jordan Umbenhauer 16. Michael Weinert 17. Jon Kellner Jr. 18. John Willman 19. Addison Meitzler 20. Terry Meitzler 21. Shawn Reimert 22. Brad Missimer 23. Wade Hendrickson 24. Glenn Owens 25. Chris Esposito 26. Dan Waisempacher 27. Jon Kellner Sr. 28. Craig VonDohren
 
NASCAR SPORTSMAN, 25 LAPS: 1. Craig Whitmoyer 2. Mike Lisowski 3. Dave Dissinger 4. John Kovatch IV 5. Kevin Beach 6. Kyle Borrow 7. Steve Lozorak 8. Corey Sechrist 9. Brian Hirthler 10. Matt Hafer 11. Mike Stringer 12. Jared Umbenhauer 13. Brad Brightbill 14. Joe Funk 15. Chris Jenkins 16. Paul Kline 17. Mike Loney 18. Andy Fayash Jr. 19. Justin Andrews 20. Erik Renninger 21. Guy Germano 22. Bob Lilick Jr. 23. Ryan Beltz 24. Kenny Gilmore
 
UNOFFICIAL  POINT STANDINGS FOR NASCAR MODIFIEDS
AS OF MAY 12 , 2012
 
1. Duane Howard, Oley, PA #4 1754***
2. Jeff Strunk, Bechtelsville, PA #357 1600
3. Doug Manmiller, Shoemakersville, PA #46 1530*
4. Craig VonDohren, Boyertown, PA #1C 1365
5. Mike Gular, Green Lane, PA  #3G 1310
6. Kyle Weiss, Hamburg, PA  #21K 1189
7. Meme DeSantis, Temple, PA  #88D 1122*
8. Ryan Grim, Laury’s Station, PA  #17 1054
9. Terry Meitzler, Kutztown, PA   #81 1042
10. Shawn Reimert, Oley, PA #58S 968
 
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DANNY O’BRIEN CLAIMS THRILLING MOHAWK OPENER

AKWESASNE, NY – Opening night for the 2012 racing season at the Mohawk International Raceway was set to roll with a great track surface and a great field of cars in the pits on Akwesasne Mohawk Casino night. A great crowd turned out on this evening and they witnessed one of if not the most exciting finish in MIR history.

In the 358 Modifieds defending track champion Chris Raabe and Danny O’Brien started on the front row in the 40 lap affair with Raabe getting the early lead going into turn number 1. It didn’t take long for the first caution to come out as Carey Terrance broke a front end on the front stretch. On the restart Raabe was able to grab the lead but Danny O’Brien had a game plan and worked the outside part of the speedway to grab the lead away on lap 5 with Raabe, Dale Planck, Roy Tarbell and Gage Morin. O’Brien would lead the next 3 laps until Planck started to show his muscle in his stout ride as he stole the lead away from O’Brien with Raabe back to 3rd Gage Morin and Billy Dunn completed the top 5. With battle for the lead going back and forth 2 of the fastest cars on the track were Billy Dunn and Gage Morin. Starting 16th and 17th on the grid they wasted no time going forward as the 2 drivers worked their way into positions 3 and 4 just past the halfway point. By Lap 22 O’Brien entered into lap traffic and thus allowed Dunn to narrow the gap and on lap 27 Dunn drove the car hard into turn 3 and grabbed the top spot and started to run away. Caution came out for Dale Planck while running third his car slowed in turn one. One lap later a crash involving Perry Francis, David Papineau and Tommy Jock Jr. would set up a 4 lap dash to the finish. On the restart Dunn held the lead but sneaking up to challenge was the 74 of Matt Billings who played patience all night and would challenge Danny O’Brien for the 2nd spot.  As they raced side by side this allowed Dunn to open up a commanding lead. On the final lap Dunn who won at Canandaigua in his big block 2 weeks ago appeared to have a 358 win in his sights when suddenly his car slowed midway through turn 4 Billings had no where to go and slammed into the back of Billy Dunn’s car. As they exited turn 4 Danny O’Brien charged from 3rd to the lead to grab a nail bitting win at MIR.  Dunn was credited with 2nd Gage Morin 3rd, Luke Whitteker 4th and Matt Billings rounded out the top 5.

In Sportsman action defending track champion Dylan Evoy and Brandon Hagan lead the field of 26 cars to the green flag with Evoy jumping out in front. Hagan and Evoy have had many battles over the years in kart racing and were having a war for the top spot with Hagan getting sole possession of the top spot on lap 3 with Evoy, Josh VanBrocklin, Dan Jalbert and Nolan Swamp rounding out the top 5. With the 2 young hot shoes out front Josh VanBrocklin began chipping away at the top 2 and by lap 10 had made it a 3 way dance for the lead with Kyle Wilson and Wyatt Mullin giving chase. The yellow flag would fly for a car stopped on the backstretch when suddenly Steve Billings spun in turn 2 and flipped over. Billings was able to climb from his wounded machine unhurt his car was done for the night. Despite a late race restart on lap 15 and Josh VanBrocklin getting by Dylan Evoy for 2nd nobody was going to catch “The Hammer” Brandon Hagan as he scored his first career opening day win over VanBrocklin, Evoy, Dan Jalbert and Kyle Wilson.

Next Friday night Truck Stop #9 will be on hand for a full card of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro-Stock, Mod Lite and Bandits. Also it will be driver autograph night at the speedway. The first green flag drops at 7:45pm

358 Modifieds(40 laps) DANNY O’BRIEN, Billy Dunn, Gage Morin, Luke Whitteker, Matt Billings, Chris Raabe, Roy Tarbell, Laurent Ladouceur, Casey Swamp, Stephane Lafrance, Shane Pecore, Brandon Sweet, Delbert Legrow, Tim O’Brien, Dale Planck, Brian McDonald, Tom Conklin, Kevin Fetterly, Kyle Jacobs, Perry Francis, David Papineau, Harvey Arquette Jr., Zach Aubertine. DNS Todd Stone, Ryan Helm

Sportsman(20 laps) BRANDON HAGAN, Josh VanBrocklin, Dylan Evoy, Dan Jalbert, Kyle Wilson, Nolan Swamp, Wyatt Mullin, Corey Wheeler, Mike Arquiett, Brent Kelsey, Jenna David, Dana Aikens, Billy Cook, Adam Rozon, Thunder Anderson Jr., Jessica Power, Mike Stacey, Thomas Cook, Tammy Jalbert, Dillon Sallows, Thomas Jock III, Steve Billings, Louie Jackson Jr., Thunder Anderson, Neal Provost.

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FULL NIGHT OF RACING AT BIG DIAMOND THIS FRIDAY

Extra events for Sportsman and Roadrunner Divisions
 
With a little help from Mother Nature, action will return to the Big Diamond 3/8 mile speedway this Friday evening with several extra feature events on the schedule.
 
Savage 61 Dodge of Hamburg, PA will present twin fifteen lap feature events for the Wooden Keg Tavern Roadrunners this Friday.  So far this season,  Jim Kost and Joey Brennan have captured Roadrunner feature events but Shon Elk, Marc Berzowski and Jon Schlauch have exhibited the potential to challenge for a win.
 
The USS Achey Sportsman will compete in a full show of qualifying events plus a twenty lap feature in addition to the make-up feature event, held-over from opening day.  Doug Hendricks currently sits on top of the Sportsman point standings.  With two features in one night, a lot can change as drivers Mike Lisowski, Craig Whitmoyer, Kevin Beach, Jr. and Kaitie McCardle are looking to make that happen!  The Sportsman Division is still looking for its first repeat winner of 2012!
 
The Station House 358 Modifieds will compete in a full show of qualifying events and twenty-five lap feature. Meme DeSantis swept the field during the last Friday night race, taking the held-over event from Opening Day as well as the night cap in the Modified double feature.  DeSantis' two victories find him on top of the points early in the season.  Rick Laubach and Craig VonDohren are looking for win number two while 2011 Track Champion, Jeff Strunk, Doug Manmiller, Glenn Strunk, Ray Swinehart and John Willman were feature winners last season and looking for that first win in 2012.  
 
That's five feature events and three divisions of racing!!  Rainchecks from the 2012 Opening Day show are still be honored.  These rainchecks will expire after the Friday night, May 18th race card.
 
Gates open at 5pm.  Race time on Friday night is 8:15.

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MIKE KELLNER WINS LATE MODEL FEATURE AT GRANDVIEW, RAIN WINS THE 358 MODIFIED AND SPORTSMAN FEATURES
 
BECHTELSVILLE, PA May 6, 2012 . . . Young Mike Kellner was able to beat the stellar field of Late Model racers in the 20-lap Mobil 1 feature race at Grandview Speedway on Saturday night but rain beat the rest of  the feature racing events

 An unexpected rain shower started to fall as the NASCAR 358 Modifieds were lining up for the start of their 30 lap feature. Promoter Bruce Rogers kept the cars running on the track hoping to keep the clay track intact but finally the rain proved to win out and the scheduled Modified and Sportsman features had to be postponed.
 
The rained out 30-lap 358 Modified feature will now kick off the Saturday, May 12th Whelen Engineering sponsored night of racing which will also include a full show of Modifieds, Late Models and Sportsman stock car racing. The Sportsman feature that was rained out will open the BPG Racing Night on Saturday, May 19th before a full show of Modifieds, Late Models and Sportsman racing is presented.
 
Doug Walton was quick to put his racer in front of the starting field in the 20-lap Late Model feature race with Dave Ogin right on his rear. After six laps Mike Kellner, coming from fifth starting spot, took the top spot from Walton with Andy Ressler and two feature winner Ron Kline chasing.
 
Current Late Model point leader Chuck Schutz spun going into the first turn catching an infield tire marker bringing out the caution. Despite the “wrestling match” with the tire Schutz was able to continue restarting at the rear of the field and coming on to finish eighth.
 
At the midway point of the feature Kellner had Ron Kline right on the rear of his PowerWasher/Mary Kay No. 57.
 
For a few laps Kellner and Kline entertained the fans swapping positions back and forth on a track that proved to be super smooth and lightning fast.
 
At the 14 lap marker Lansdale based Kellner took complete control and set the pace for the balance of the 20-lap feature holding a comfortable lead at the finish. Ron Kline (Salford) came home second after having to hold off several challenges from third place finisher Sean Merkel (Gilbertsville). Andy Ressler (Macungie) had a strong effort, challenging for the lead early, and finishing fourth while Danny Snyder (Green Lane) came from 16th to finish fifth.

Qualifying heat races for the Late Models, each eight laps, were won by Wayne Pfeil Jr. and Andy Ressler.
 
Sportsman qualifiers, each eight laps, went to Bobby Lilick, John Horvath IV and Corey Sechrist.
 
Twelve lap heats for the NASCAR 358 Modifieds were won by Duane Howard (coming from last), Doug Man miller (coming from last), Tommy Scheetz Jr. and Jon Kellner Jr. Two consolation races for the Modifieds, each 10 laps, were won by Chris Esposito and Meme DeSantis.

NASCAR LATE MODELS, 20 LAPS: 1. Mike Kellner 2. Ron Kline 3. Sean Merkel 4. Andy Ressler 5. Danny Snyder 6. Rick Todorow 7. Kory Fleming 8. Chuck Schutz 9. Steve Nederostek 10. Doug Walton 11. Bill Henning 12. Drew Weisser 13. Dallas Breidenbach 14. John Giesler 15. Ron Chrisman 16. Steve Butler 17. Dirk Rimrott 18. Jason Miller 19. Wayne Pfeil Jr. 20. Dave Ogin 21. Buddy Mertz

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VanPelt, Potrzebowski score modified wins at Woodhull

(Woodhull, NY) Woodhull Raceway’s Big Ink and Insinger Performance sponsored night was a success as all six regular classes put on a great show. The S&W Awards & Photos Crate Sportsman started the night with another full field. Starting 12th, last week’s feature winner, Ajay Potrzebowski once again found his way to the front of the pack. Potrzebowski keenly took advantage of the multiple yellows during the course of the feature event to chase down the leaders. Once he made it to the top position, he pulled away from the rest of the field and picked up his second consecutive set of checkered flags. Rounding out the top five it was, Russell Morseman Jr., Ray Smith, Josh Nobriga, and Grant Hilfiger. Potrzebowski also collected a heat win along with AJ Costly and Art Goodier. 

Lee Bills, starting on the pole held the lead for the first half of the race before Alan Rudalavage made a pass for the lead. From there, Rudalavage had both Mike Bills and Billy VanPelt quickly closing in on the lead. Finally, VanPelt found his way around Rudalavage to pick up his first win this season. Rudalavage picked up the runner up spot followed by Mike Bills, Lee Bills and Ray Bliss. Both VanPelt and Mike Bills won their heat events, along with Dale Welty.

The NAPA 360 Late Models were next in line. Once again, John Waters raced his way through the field from 12th to second where he had to contend with Jeremy Wonderling. Wonderling and Waters both fought hard for the runner up position, with Waters finally passing Wonderling on lap 18. From there he had his sights set on picking up his 3rd consecutive win this season at the Woodhull Raceway as he chased down Glenn Whritenour. On lap 21, after passing from the inside most of the race, Waters made a huge power move to the outside where he passed Whritenour taking over the lead with only four laps remaining. A caution flag on the final lap made it a one lap dash for the win as Whritenour found his way around Waters to pick up the win. Waters was able to hang in there for second followed by Jeremy Wondering, Brian Knowles, and Sean Lias. Wonderling, Waters, and Lias also picked up the heat wins. 

On May 12th, the Woodhull Raceway will present a regular Big 6 Show.  Gates open at 4:30pm, with racing at 6:30pm.

370 Modifieds  25 lap feature: Billy VanPelt, Alan Rudalavage, Mike Bills, Lee Bills, Ray Bliss, Joe Dgien, Kevin Chilson, Dave Dubois, Steve Hartman Jr., Casey Pavlick, Ken Peoples Jr., Brian Doolittle, Ray Dann, Ron White, Don Silvernail, Frank Dunning, Donnie Lawson, Dale Welty, Wesley Campbell, Dylan Dewert, Bobby Davis, Don Lawson

Crate Sportsman  25 lap feature:  Ajay Potrzebowski (2), Russell Morseman Jr., Ray Smith, Josh Nobriga, Grant Hilfiger, Rod Mullen, John Hargrave, Mike Jackson, Roger Williams, Don Knowles, A.J. Costley, Brett Buono, Brandon Martin, Ryan Tracy, Conner Brown, Mark Kline, Dakota Hargrave, Paul Jenkins, James Howard, Collin Brown, Chris Brockway, Josh Keesey, Art Goodier, DNS Bill Walters

360 Late Models  25 lap feature:  Glenn Whritenour, John Waters, Jeremy Wonderling, Brian Knowles, Sean Lias, Jason Knowles, Dustin Waters, Buck Payne, Steve LeBarron, Carl Hughes, Jerry Wilson, Frank LeBarron, Josh Smith, Jay McConnell II, Shane Smith, Mick Seeley, Jared Hill, Cecil LaBarron, Steve Williams, Clint Button, Wally Wade, Jay McConnell, Tony Harris, Mike Wonderling

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SUSICE, COTRISS, MORRIS, STONE AND PAHL NOTCH WINS AT THE 55TH RANSOMVILLE SPEEDWAY SEASON OPENER

Ransomville, NY – Friday, May 04, 2012 –  A total of 120 cars packed the pit area destined to enter the grandstands FULL of fans.  It was a home run as Ransomville Speedway kicked off the 55th season of competition at the Braley Rd location.  It was the 40th season for the Friesen family at the Big R.

If the Modified feature is any indication of the season ahead – the fans are in for a treat!  Youngsters Mike Bowman and Ryan Susice put on a show to end all shows as they battled side by side through the final ten laps.  At the checkered it was Susice taking the win aboard the thirty lap main event.  Bowman, Erick Rudolph, Danny Johnson, and Scott Kerwin rounded out the top five. Rudolph started on the pole position by virtue of setting fast time the week prior and led the first three circuits. Johnson was the hard charger as he advanced ten positions from fourteenth to fourth. Only one caution slowed the pace.  A total of 31 Mighty Taco Modifieds signed in for competition .

Jesse Cotriss of Medina, NY took top honors aboard the twenty-five lap Sportsman main. Cotriss inherited the lead on lap three when the top two of Greg Martin and Don Spatorico came together coming off turn four. Cotriss would hold off Spatorico at the checkered for the win. Spatorico, Jipp Ortiz, Justin Sharp, and James Henry rounded out the top five.

MODIFIED FEATURE FINISH–RYAN SUSICE, Mike Bowman, Erick Rudolph, Danny Johnson, Scott Kerwin, Mat Williamson, Rich Vinson, Todd Burley, Anthony Rizzardo, Tommy Flannigan, Robbie Krull, Pete Bicknell, Chuck Hossfeld, Justin Wright, Dave Just, Jeff McGinnis, Pat Vigneri, Phil Vigneri, Chad Brachmann, Ricky Richner, Brian Sage, Steve Schumacher, Randy Chrysler, John Venuto, and Sam Crogan.  Heat Winners – Mat Williamson, Mike Bowman, and Rich Vinson. B-Main – Dave Just.

SPORTSMAN– JESSE COTRISS, Don Spatorico, Jipp Ortiz, Justin Sharp, James Henry, Mike Williams, Greg Martin, Derek Smith, Billy Coleman, Allan Wills, Brett Martin, Don Barnes, Scott Krull, Andy Smith, Nate Reynolds, Steve Miller, Chris Burek, Andy Jankowiak, Kevin Wills, and Matt Farnham. Heat Winners – Don Spatorico and Kevin Wills.

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Holden Ready to Race at Mercer Raceway Park
 
Mercer, PA (May 2, 2012): Jimmy "the Jet" Holden is ready for take-off Saturday, May 5, when racing resumes at Mercer Raceway Park. He was grounded early in the opening race for the Approved Toilet Rentals 358 Modifieds due to a broken rocker arm. That mill was replaced with another and he's excited to get back on the track, along with the rest of the competitors in a Saturday Night Live! program.
 
"It is similar to another off-season," Holden said of the three-week break. "The anticipation builds, and it gets frustrating becasue the car's loaded and you're ready to go."
 
Holden will get the chance this weekend to start the defense of his divisional championship, as the points will begin to accrue. He knows how tough it will be, though, because he defeated Frank Guidace by the narrowest of margins each of the last two seasons. "Frank's really good and he's always there (at the finish)." Indeed, Guidace has already claimed one win with his brand new Troyer chassis powered by a Hine Racing Engine.
 
But the talent runs deep in the 358 Modified class. Lonny Riggs, another track favorite, was also sidelined with mechanical woes. Rob Curtis, who plans to be a regular in 2012, is always a threat to win. Add in jovial Ron Eperthener, Eric Gabany, Rick Hall, Matt Reeher, Kyle Fink, and Shawn Fleeger, just to name a few, and you've got a really stout field. And, don't forget, Jeff and Jerry Shaffer have yet to hit the track with their immaculate machines!
 
There will be two classes of Sprint Cars taking to the track Saturday. The Luxaire Heating & Cooling Sprints, powered by 410 cubic inch engines, will thill the crowd. They are tuning up for the invasion of the All Star Circuit of Champions on May 12. But, the winged excitement doesn't end there. The Outlaw Sprint Warriors, sponsored by Ti22 Performance, use smaller powewr plants, but the racing action is just as great!
 
The Precise Racing Products Stock Cars always present one of the top races of the night. Just a short while ago, Joe Kelly slid sideways across the finish line to capture his first checkerd flag of the season.
 
The Modified Lites, presented by Big Daddy's Speed Center and Rock Concrete, pack a lot of punch in those diminutive racers. They will be joined by the Mini Stocks to round out the six division card.
 
Racing starts at 7 p.m., and front gates will open at 4. The weather forecast looks more promising than it has in recent weeks, so come out early to get your favorite seats.
 
Ticket prices will be $13 for adults, $11 for seniors, and $5 for students. Children 8 and under are always admitted free. The economical Family Pass will cost $28, and that will be good for two adults and up to four children of any age. Pit passes will be just $25.

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Third straight rainout at Mercer

Mercer, PA (April 29, 2012):  With the Stanley Cup playoffs in full swing, Mother Nature scored a hat trick Saturday at Mercer Raceway Park. Rain and unseasonable temperatures forced the third straight cancellation of Saturday Night Live! racing. A full six-division card will be presented on May 5, which will also be club night. The Park will play host to the Pittsburgh Circle Track Club and the Twin State Auto Racing Club.
 
Coming up soon will be two exciting Sprint Car specials. On May 12, the All Star Circuit of Champion Sprint Cars will make their first of two appearances. Then, on May 19, the wings come off. The B.O.S.S. Sprints will be backin' into the corners!
 
Gates will open on May 5 at 4 p.m. and racing will begin at 7. The usual ticket pricing will apply for the May 5 program. Adults will be $13, Seniors will be $11, Students $5 and children 8 and under will be free. Family passes will be $28 and pit passes will be $25.

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BICKNELL, MCPHERSON & KNAPP WIN FIRST FEATURES OF 2012 IN MERRITTVILLE SPRING SIZZLER

For Immediate Release from Jim Irvine Merrittville Speedway Public Relations

Thorold, Ontario (April 29) Merrittville Speedway opened it’s 61st Season April 28th with Pete Bicknell, Cody McPherson & Kevin Knapp taking home wins in the three division Spring Sizzler in the Bobcat of Hamilton 358 Modified, Original Pizza Logs Sportsman and Hoosier Stock Divisions respectively.

The last time Bicknell was at the controls of his Lucas Oil #42, it was in the John Spencer Memorial 50 lap event that closed the 61st Season where he soldiered to a third place finish but good enough for his 21st Career Title at the Thorold DIRTcar sanctioned facility and would have back surgery later than week.

Despite issues with the PA System after the start of 50 lap event for the 358 Modifieds that left co-announcers Clint Geoffrey and Dana Huffman literally speechless, the excellent opening night crowd saw that Bicknell will once again be one tough animal in 2012 in his quest for a 22nd Championship.

One driver looking to earn his first career title after finishing second to Bicknell the last two seasons is Mat Williamson and as the defending winner of the annual Spring Sizzler was out front early after lead swaps between front row starters Larry Lampman Jr. and Bicknell.

Williamson was in top spot by lap 8 with Bicknell challenging for the lead by lap 15. With the leaders quickly coming up on lap traffic, Chris Steele in third was overtaken by both Chad Brachmann and Scott Wood. With Williamson still out front to the halfway point at lap 25, Brachmann was able to get by Bicknell for the runner-up spot.

By lap 30 Brachmann and Bicknell began to close in on Williamson and on lap 35 the leader almost met with disaster coming up on slower cars. Luckily Williamson was able to weave his way through but unluckily – the top three were all now about a car length apart from each other.

The top three weren’t holding anything back with incidental contact between Bicknell and Brachmann finding the former champion having a left front tire going soft. Later Williamson would fall victim to a broken front shock on lap 45.

With Bicknell taking control of top spot on lap 45, Scott Wood was now in the runner up spot but couldn’t reel in the leader.

Bicknell and Wood were followed at the finish by Williamson and Brachmann who were both able to hold on to top 5 finishes with Lampman fifth.

Another driver looking to be one tough animal in 2012 is Cody McPherson – behind the wheel of the Advantage Trailer-owned Bobcat of Hamilton sponsored #7 Sportsman in 2012. Behind the wheel of a non-family owned race car for the first time since his Mike Granton-wrenched Hoosier Stock held off his brother-in-law and team mate Brandon Easey by a mere 3/100ths of a second after 40 laps of hard racing.

“It’s awesom to get Gord and Gord Sr. their first win,” exclaimed McPherson in Victory Lane, “I’m glad we were able to pull it off … at the end I didn’t think I could get by the lap cars but to win and beat Easey … it’s even better!”

Easey who is making a return to the division after a season in the 358 Modifieds was the initial leader facing a challenge from defending Champion Brad Rouse before a lap 7 caution slowed the field. By lap 15 Rouse was out in front with McPherson joining in in third. By halfway it was McPherson ahead of Easey with Rouse dropping to third.

McPherson ran away to about a ¼ lap lead but as the event neared lap 30, Easey was closing in. Through heavy lap traffic Easey continued to close and by lap 35 was right on the leader. With one lap to go, Rouse had even got back to have a shot but at the checkered flag … McPherson was able to hold off the two.

“I used to think racing was the best thing,” revealed the new father post race, “but now with my daughter Aliyah and Amber at home … thanks to them for letting me keep do this – our programs on top right now … hopefully we’ll keep it up front all season.”

McPherson Easey and Rouse were followed by Gary Lindberg and BJ Willard.

“Just out to beat the pink cars …that’s our goal,” admitted Kevin Knapp at the conclusion of the 30 lap Hoosier Stock Spring Sizzler, “They were so fast … for me it was all about patience and running the bottom.”

DIRTcar 358 MODIFIED FEATURE (50 laps) Pete Bicknell, Scott Wood, Chad Brachmann, Mat Williamson, Larry Lampman, Eric Rudolph, Chris Steele, Mike Bowman, Tim Jones, Mark D’Ilario, Danny O’Brien, Todd Gordon, Travis Braun, Bill Bleich, Fred Carleton, Scott Kerwin, Ken Cosgrove, Chad Chevalier, Matt Billings, Rob Pietz, Shayne Pierce, Ken Winfield, Rick Hoctor, Tom Flannigan, Rick Richner.

DIRTcar SPORTSMAN FEATURE – (40 laps) Cody McPherson, Brandon Easey, Brad Rouse, Gary Lindberg, BJ Willard, Greg Panunte, Justin Sharp, Jim Johnstone, Brent Begolo, Mark Chiddy, Jason Farraway, Austin Wood, Dave Flannigan Jr., Larry Czinege, Jesse Penner, Rob Knapp, Paul Jorgenson, Pat Sonnenberg, Robert Baker, Jason Moore, Travis Miller, Joey Mastroianni, Jessica Power, Martin Landry, Ron MacAulay, Paul Williamson, Adam Leslie, Kaven Poliquin.

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JON KELLNER SR., LILICK JR, HOWARD, SNYDER AND BEACH WIN NASCAR FEATURES AT GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY SATURDAY NIGHT
 
BECHTELSVILLE, PA April 29, 2012 . . . Five feature races produced five different winners at Grandview Speedway on Saturday night.
 
The Sportsman and 358 Modified feature races left over from the previous Saturday’s rainout had Bobby Lilick Jr. getting the win in the 25-lap feature for the Sportsman and veteran racer Jon Kellner Sr. won the 30-lapper for NASCAR 358 Modifieds, his first win since 2006.
 
In the regularly scheduled feature races Danny Snyder was tops in the 20-lap Late Model main event, Duane Howard won his third of the season in the 30-lap 358 Modified feature and Kevin Beach was the winner in the 25-lap feature for Sportsman racers.
 
Despite doom and gloom weather forecasts, rain throughout the area, the racers, track crew and officials were able to produce the five feature show in about 4 hours sending fans home at about 11 p.m.
 
Kicking off the night in front of a strong contingent of diehard fans was Bobby Lilick Jr’s first career victory at the Bechtelsville clay oval. The King of Prussia, PA youngster started on the pole in the 25-lap Sportsman feature that had been rained out the previous Saturday night and never gave up that number one spot holding off the late race challenge of  Mike Lisowski with his unsponsored No. 53 racer. Finishing third behind Lisowski was Dave Dissinger (Hamburg), Mike Springer and Kyle Borror (Peach Bottom).
 
Proving to be a very popular victory with the fans was Jon Kellner Sr ‘s winning effort in the 30-lap NASCAR 358 Modified feature that was left from the previous week’s rainout.
 
Eric Biehn took the early lead with Kellner going to the front with just one third of the laps completed. Once in front the Lansdale, PA racer was able to hold off strong challenges from Meme DeSantis to grab the win in the Vince’s Towing & Recovery No. 66. DeSantis (Temple), who actually edged in front of the leader in Turn 4 on the 15th lap, held on for a second place finish followed by Jeff Strunk (Pottstown) coming from 15th starting position. Point leader Duane Howard (Oley) grabbed fourth and Glenn Strunk (Bechtelsville), a teammate to Kellner, finished fifth.
 
Danny Snyder heard the wrath of unhappy fans when he tried to explain how he had won the 20-lap Late Model feature event. With two laps to go Kory Fleming, who had led for most of the feature laps, left just enough room open under him in the fourth turn to allow young Snyder to charge past him and grab the victory with his Ford’s Property Maintenance No. 4s. The Green Lane racer was just a narrow margin in front of second place finisher Fleming (Milford, NJ) at the finish. Jason Miller (New Tripoli) took third followed by Wayne Pfeil Jr. (Mohnton) and defending champion and current point leader Chuck Schutz (Pottstown).
 
In the second 30-lap feature of the night for the NASCAR 358 Modifieds it looked like the “cousins Grim” might be able to finish one-two. Brad Grim set the pace for the first half of the feature with Gary Hager and Cousin Ryan Grim applying the pressure. With 16 laps in the record book Ryan charged to the front. A number of cautions caused by a variety of on track incidents brought Duane Howard into the picture as he charged through the pack from 16th starting spot. Howard took the Blue Bell Air No. 4 to the front with six laps to go and the Oley racer was able to hold on to earn his third win of the season.
 
Second spot in the 358 Modified feature was earned by Ryan Grim (Coplay) with an impressive effort. Gary Hager (Stewartsville, NJ) had a strong third place finish followed by Mike Gular (Green Lane) coming from 20th starting spot and Jeff Strunk (Pottstown) having started 22nd.
 
The final event of the night, a 25-lap feature for the Sportsman, their second feature of the five feature program, saw Matt Hafer take the top spot at the drop of the green but Kevin Beach went to the front on the 6th circuit after a caution for a multi-car accident in Turn 4.
 
Once in front Beach (Minersville) held the top spot for the balance of the event withstanding a strong challenge from Brad Brightbill (Sinking Spring) in the closing laps. Brightbill settled for second followed by Dave Dissinger (Hamburg), Bob Lilick Jr. (King of Prussia) and Paul Kline (Muhlenberg Park).
 
Qualifying heat races for the regular three feature part of the show had Wayne Pfeil Jr. and Mike Kellner winning in the Late Models, Brad Brightbill and Bobby Lilick Jr. won the in the Sportsman while the four 12-lap qualifiers for the 358 Modifieds were won by Mike Laise (holding off Duane Howard), Jarred Miller, Craig VonDohren and Gary Hager.

 Consolation events for the Modifieds went to the Strunk brothers Glenn and Jeff.

Coming up on Saturday, May 5th  is a tripleheader of NASCAR 358 Modifieds, Late Models and Sportsman stock cars sponsored by Mobil 1. A new starting time of 7:30 p.m. will be in place until the BPG Racing Freedom 76 on September 15.  Modifieds run in a 30 lap feature while Late Models and Sportsman top their night with 20 lap features. Adult admission is just $15 while youngsters 12 and under are admitted FREE
 
RAINED OUT 358 MODIFIED FEATURE FROM APRIL 21 - 30 LAPS - 1.Jon Kellner Sr. 2. Meme DeSantis 3. Jeff Strunk 4. Duane Howard 5. Glenn Strunk 6. Doug Manmiller 7. Mike Gular 8. Kyle Weiss 9. Craig VonDohren 10. Nate Christman 11. Ray Swinehart 12. Don Norris Jr. 13. Ron Seltman 14. Wade Hendrickson 15. Terry Meitzler 16. Shawn Reimert 17. Jon Kellner Jr. 18. Todd Smith 19. Carol Hine III 20. Mike Laise 21. Addison Meitzler 22. Ryan Grim 23. Kevin Albert Jr. 24. Jordan Umbenhauer 25. Kyle Follweiler 26. Tommy Scheetz Jr. 27. Eric Biehn 28. John Willman 29. Kevin Hirthler 30. Brad Missimer
 
RAINED OUT SPORTSMAN FEATURE FROM APRIL 21 - 20 LAPS - 1.Bobby Lilick Jr. 2. Mike Lisowski 3. Dave Dissinger 4. Mike Stringer 5. Kyle Borror 6. Craig Whitmoyer 7. Paul Kline 8. Brad Brightbill 9. Joe Funk 10. Ryan Beltz 11. Steve Searock 12. Nick DeSantis 13. Mike Loney 14. Matt Hafer 15. Steve Lozorak 16. Kevin Beach 17. Jared Umbenhauer 18. Blaine Emery 19. Brian Hirthler 20. Jason Neidlinger 21. Corey Sechrist

358 MODIFIED FEATURE - 30 LAPS: 1. Duane Howard 2. Ryan Grim 3. Gary Hager 4. Mike Gular 5. Jeff Strunk 6. Brad Grim 7. Craig VonDohren 8 Jarred Miller 9. Doug Manmiller 10. Shawn Reimert 11. Michael Weinert 12. Mike Laise 13. John Willman 14. Don Norris Jr. 15. Kevin Hirthler 16. Meme DeSantis 17. Kyle Weiss 18. Kyle Follweiler 19. Dan Waisempacher 20. Ron Seltman 21. Nate Christman 22. Todd Smith 23. Jon Kellner Sr. 24. Chris Esposito 25. Terry Meitzler 26. Glenn Strunk 27. Ray Swinehart 28. Wade Hendrickson 29. Jason Clauss 30. Chris Gambler.
 
LATE MODELS, 20 LAPS: 1. Danny Snyder 2. Kory Fleming 3. Jason Miller 4. Wayne Pfeil 5. Chuck Schutz 6. Andy Ressler 7. Rick Todorow 8. Bill Henning 9. David Ogin 10. Lee Miller 11. John Giesler 12. Steve Nederostek 13. Dirk Rimrott 14. Mike Kellner 15. Drew Weisser 16. Buddy Mertz 17. Lou Egrie Sr. 18. Ron Kline 19. Johnny Favinger
 
SPORTSMAN, 20 LAPS: 1.Kevin Beach 2. Brad Brightbill 3. Dave Dissinger 4. Bob Lilick Jr. 5. Paul Kline 6. Jared Umbenhauer 7. Nick DeSantis 8. Mike Loney 9. Matt Hafer 10. Steve Lozorak 11. Brian Hirthler 12. Jason Neidlinger 13. Mike Lisowski 14. Steve Searock 15. Mike Stringer 16. Kyle Borrow, 17. Ryan Beltz

UNOFFICIAL  POINT STANDINGS FOR NASCAR MODIFIEDS
AS OF APRIL 28, 2012
1. Duane Howard, Oley, PA #4 1204***
2. Jeff Strunk, Bechtelsville, PA #357 1082
3. Craig VonDohren, Boyertown, PA #1C 1048
4. Doug Manmiller, Shoemakersville, PA #46 984
5. Mike Gular, Green Lane, PA  #3G 955
6. Kyle Weiss, Hamburg, PA  #21K 906
7. Don Norris, Douglassville, PA  #976 801
8. Ryan Grim, Laury’s Station, PA  #17 673
9. Shawn Reimert, Oley, PA #58S 671
10. Terry Meitzler, Kutztown, PA   #81 669

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WOODHULL RACEWAY   4/28/2012
370 Modifieds 25 lap feature:  Mike Bills, Al Rudalavage, Billy VanPelt, Donnie Lawson, Joe Dgien, Frank Dunning, Ray Bliss Jr., Dale Welty, Bob Davis, Dave Dubois, Ron White, Brian Doolittle, Lee Bills, Casey Pavlick, Kevin Chilson, Kenny Peoples Jr. DNS:  Steve Hartman Jr.

Crate Sportsman  25 lap feature:  Ajay Potrzebowski, Josh Nobriga, Art Goodier, Ray Smith, Brady Fultz, Roger Williams, Brett Buono, John Hargrave, Rod Mullen, Frank Kline, Connor Brown, Donnie Knowles, Scott Waters, Mike Jackson, Grant Hilfiger, Josh Keesey, Chris Brockway, Russ Morseman, Brandon Martin, Jim Jones, Don Lawson, Ron Hargrave, Doug Kline, A.J. Costley.

Late Models BRP Can Am Series 30 lap feature:  John Waters (2), Bruce Miller, Glenn Whritenour, Jeremy Wonderling, Clint Button, Quinn Sutherland, Mike Wonderling Jr., Josh Smith, Brian Knowles, Barry Payne, Cecil LeBarron, Mick Seeley, Bob Stilson, Mike Wonderling Sr., Wally Wade, Sean Lias, Jaye McConnell Sr., Jason Knowles, Steve LeBarron, Larry Knowles, Dustin Waters, Jerred Hill, Dave Dubois, Jimmy Johnson.

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ERICK RUDOLPH  SETS FAST TIME AT RANSOMVILLE SPEEDWAY

Ransomville, NY – Friday, April 27, 2012 - -The Mighty Taco Modified roster is one to be proud of.  As the 2012 season gets underway – a total of thirty drivers have elected to call the Big R home on Friday nights.  Twenty-eight of the thirty were on hand this past Friday for the test, tune, and time session.  Sitting at the top of the heap when the final checkered flew was Ransomville native Erick Rudolph.  Piloting his Snyder Industries/Original Pizza Logs #25 Troyer, Rudolph was the only Modified to post a time in the sixteen second bracket at 16.95. In addition to the pole position – Rudolph also picked up a full drum of VP 112 racing fuel compliments of VP Racing Fuels.

Ryan Susice of Ransomville claimed the outside front row start with a time of 17.11. Susice was piloting his familiar #38 Subway/Tim Phillips Garage sponsored entry. Scott Kerwin wheeled his BlueCross/BlueShield of WNY /NMCC machine to a third place finish with a time of 17.16 followed by defending champion Chad Brachmann who had a time of 17.30.  Anthony Rizzardo rounded out the top five in time trials with a time of 17.44.

Another division that has seen a climb in numbers is the Sportsman.  When the green flies on May 4th for the 55th season at Ransomville Speedway – a total of 24 drivers will have registered for competition in the open wheeled class.  Finding himself with the pole position for opening nights feature main was Jesse Cotriss of Medina, NY in his #55c.  Greg Martin of Youngstown, NY claimed the outside pole with a time of 18.31. Defending champion Don Spatorico of Ransomville claimed the third quickest time at 18.35 followed by Derek Smith and Justin Sharp. In addition to the pole, Cotriss also picked up a full drum of VP 98 compliments of VP Racing Fuels.

The Ki-Po Chevrolet Streetstock class is always a division that boasts high numbers in registered drivers.  The 2012 season will not disappoint as some thirty drivers have registered for competition.  Mike Short was all smiles after topping the field with a time of 20.86.  Sporting his #19 entry – Short bested a total of nineteen.  Alex Morris -a name familiar with Streetstocks at Ransomville - came home in the second position and will line up side by side with Short on opening night.  Kyle Wendt, Brandon Sherwood, and Jason Meyer rounded out the top five.  In addition to the pole, Short also earned a $100 bonus from Ransomville Speedway.  This will be presented in a ceremony on the front stretch opening night.

Jim Harbison of Ransomville, NY set the fast time in the Bobcat of Buffalo Fireballs with a time of 23.08. Harbison will hold the pole position for the opening night feature with Pat O’Keefe alongside.  O’Keefe’s time was 23.18.  Chris Leone, Gary Watier, and Steve Matson rounded out the top five.  In addition to the pole, Harbison also picked up a $50 bonus from Ransomville Speedway – this will be awarded in a ceremony on the front stretch opening night.

Mike Pahl of Lockport, NY set fast time in the Gippsters Collision 4 Bangers with a time of 23.76.  Pahl will sit on the pole position for the start of opening nights feature.  Setting second fast time was Ryan Plante whose time was 23.92.  Tom Ruble, Mike Hossfeld, and Ed Martin rounded out the top five. In addition to the pole, Pahl also picked up a $50 bonus from Ransomville Speedway – this will be awarded in a ceremony on the front stretch opening night.

Next week’s opening night qualifying heats will be lined up by the time trials set on Friday.  Those who were unable to make time trials will fill in at the back of the heats.

Join us this coming Friday, May 4th as Martin’s Fantasy Island presents the 55th season.   Slated includes a full card of Mighty Taco Modifieds, Original Pizza Logs Sportsman, Ki-Po Chevrolet Streetstocks, Bobcat of Buffalo Fireballs, and Gippsters Collision 4 Bangers.  Gates open at 5 pm in the pit area and 6 pm in the grandstands.  Race time is set for 7:15 pm.  Call 716-791-3602 or log onto www.ransomvillespeedway.com for additional information. *-+

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Chapman’s Can Am Motorsports Park Will Make Second Attempt at 2012 Season Open This Saturday Night Featuring the Empire Super Sprints

By Craig Revelle – Finish Line Web Design

April 23, 2012

After the scheduled opening night was washed, Chapman’s Can Am Motorsports Park will make another attempt to get the 2012 season started this coming Saturday night, April 28th, as the Empire Super Sprints get their season underway.  The ESS will highlight an exciting event, and will be joined by Sportsman, Late Models, Street Stock/Pro Stock Challenge as well as a Modified Dash for Cash that was just recently added to the schedule.  Junction Boyz Inc will present the action packed opening night schedule.

Saturday’s racing at Can Am will mark the beginning of the 30th season of racing for the Empire Super Sprints.  They will have a strong contingent of Sprint Car contenders, including 2011 Empire Super Sprints champion Chuck Hebing, past ESS Champions Steve Poirier, Lance Yonge and Alain Bergeron, who took the checkered flag at Can Am just one year ago.

The SUNY Canton, Dig Safely NY, Clarence Henry Coach Sportsman division will also be on the card with a $700 to win main event.  The SUNY Canton, Dig Safely NY, Junction Boyz Inc. Fastrak Late Models, SUNY Canton, Dig Safely NY Street Stock/Pro Stock Challenge 25 lap $500 to win event and 30 lap Cheney Tire Enduro will also be on the schedule. 

With the rain out from last week, the track has also added an open practice for all other divisions, and a SUNY Canton Modified Dash for Cash paying $500 to win, $300 for second, $100 for third and fourth, and $50 to all other competitors.  In addition, Finish Line Web Design has added a $100 bonus for the first 358 Modified to cross the finish line, potentially making this race a $600 to win event if a Small Block were to win it.  The lineup for the dash for cash will be determined by a draw upon entrance through the pit gate.  The winner of the Dash for Cash will also earn a guaranteed starting spot in the May 23rd SUNY Canton Shootout $3000 to win event.  Standard 358 Modified rules will apply, with a minimum weight of 2300 pounds.

“We have a lot of fans that love to see Modified racing as well, and this gives them a chance to do that under racing conditions instead of just practice”, says Can Am General Manager Chip Burdick.  “Mike Perry from SUNY Canton and Craig Revelle from Finish Line Web Design agreed to help sponsor this event.

Pit Gates will swing open at 3pm on Saturday afternoon, and the Grandstand area will open at 4pm.  Hot laps will commence at 5pm, followed by a drivers meeting.  Racing action will begin at 6pm.  General Admission is $18 for Adults, Students 10 thru 14 just $5, nine and under free. Military members with valid ID admitted free.

More information regarding the 2012 season at Chapman's Can-Am Motorsports Park, including sponsorship and ticket information can be found at www.canammotorsports.com or by contacting Chip Burdick at (315) 778- 3407.

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WOODHULL RACEWAY LOOSES APRIL 21 EVENT TO RAIN.

(Woodhull, NY)  Like most every other race venue in the northeast, the Woodhull Raceway fell prey to rain on Saturday, April 21, 2012.

“Last week we had had showers, but they didn’t arrive until 5:30 in the afternoon.  That was after we had cars in the pits and fans in the stands and even though we got started a couple hours late we made a decision to wait it out and get the show in which we did.  This week was a totally different story as it rained throughout most of the day and the forecast looked even worse for later on in the day and evening.  With that we pulled the plug early enough to save everyone an unnecessary trip.”  That according to Woodhull owner, Ted White.

That set’s up a huge night of race action on April 28 as the Insinger Performance 370 Modifieds will make their first appearance of 2012 along with a regular card of Crate Sportsman, Street, Mini and Front Wheel Drive Divisions.  In addition the BRP Can Am Series for the 360 Late Models will make their first of three stops at the popular Steuben County oval in 2K12.

Gates for the April 28, 2012 show open at 4:30 with the first green flag of the night waving at 6:30 pm.

The night of action is presented by Pepsi and it is a $12.00 Adult General Admission ticket price.

For more information including details on how you can register at rainedout.com simple click on at http://www.woodhullraceway.com

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DESANTIS DOUBLES IN BIG DIAMOND FRIDAY NIGHT ACTION

Whitmoyer Picks Up First Sportsman Win of the Season
 
The Temple Tornado, Meme DeSantis, blew into the Forestville, PA Big Diamond Speedway on Friday night and into the Victory Lane not once but twice before the night of racing was complete.  DeSantis gave car owner, Harvey Bittler two feature wins while the car owner vacationed with family out West. 
 
The first Station House 358 Modified Feature was the rained out event from the April 1st opener.  At the drop of the green flag, Kevin Albert, Jr., the lead as DeSantis immediately followed in second.  Two caution flags for minor incidents interrupted the racing action as Albert held the lead through lap five.
 
Albert held off DeSantis for a top five finish just one week earlier but the veteran racer was not to be denied this time as he sailed into the lead, using the outside line by Albert on lap 6.  Rick Laubach had the Beer City #7 up to third.  Doug Manmiller and Ray Swinehart rounded out the top five by the half way point.
 
DeSantis complete the race unchallenged.  Laubach showed his nose to Albert on several occasions but the young driver held onto second at the checkered flag.  Manmiller settled in fourth after showing some muscle.  Most of the action came from fifth through tenth in the remaining laps as Craig VonDohren took fifth away from Swinehart on the final circuit. 
 
DeSantis remarked in Victory Lane that his wins have been "few and far between" but he wouldn't have to wait long for the next one.
 
In the second 25 lap Station House 358 Modified Feature, "The Law", Easton, PA driver, Ricky Yetter, took the lead on lap one from rookie, Brad Arnold.  Yetter handily led the field through six caution flags in the first ten laps, moving back out in front each time the green flag waved. 
 
The most serious incident occurred on lap three when Arnold lost the handle on his #27 between turns three and four.  In addition to Arnold, the cars of Duane Howard and Jeff Strunk received race ending damage. 
 
DeSantis had already moved into the top five from his 14th place start as he and Laubach battled for position on the restart.  Yetter led Colt Harris and Mike Mammana at this point in the race as Laubach took over fourth from DeSantis. 
 
With Yetter out in front, Laubach took second away from Harris on lap eight as DeSantis was hot on his heels. 
 
DeSantis took over second on lap fourteen and immediately set his sights on Yetter.  Yetter consistently hit his marks.  DeSantis would pull even with Yetter's Stellar Construction #5 through the corners but Yetter had the speed coming off the corner to pull ahead.  Yetter battled with a loose race car and just couldn't hold off DeSantis as he took over the lead on lap twenty-three.  Laubach was also able to move by Yetter to take second one lap later but the top three were not more than a car length or two apart at the checkered flag.
 
Harris finished a strong effort in fourth as Manmiller picked up his second top five run of the night in fifth.
 
After weeks of struggling, Craig Whitmoyer picked up his first win of the season in the USS Achey Sportsman feature, his thirtieth Sportsman win on the 3/8 mile speedway.
 
Shawn Fitzpatrick was the early race leader in his T102FM.  Whitmoyer used a move to the outside to take the lead from Fitzpatrick on lap four as the pair raced out of turn two. 
 
Whitmoyer held a comfortable lead over Fitzpatrick who had Kevin Beach, Jr. knocking on the door through the last half of the race.  Doug Hendricks raced from the rear of the field after an early race incident to take fourth away from Sportsman rookie, Mike Glass on the final lap. 
 
Joey Brennan picked up his second win of the season in the Wooden Keg Tavern Roadrunner feature.  Jon Schlauch was the early race leader until Brennan took over on lap six.  Shon Elk finished second after restarting from the rear.  Elk looked to make a move to the inside of Brennan in the closing laps but had to settle for the runner-up finish.  Chip Kennedy, Mario Donatti and Schlauch completed the top five at the finish line. 
 
Race Notes: DeSantis' two feature wins moved him up to sixth on the all time feature win list at the Big Diamond Speedway.  DeSantis now has 23 wins at Big Diamond.  Keith and Doug Hoffman are ahead of DeSantis, each with 35 feature wins. Strong performances by rookie drivers as Modified rookie, Brad Arnold was the winner of the first heat and Sportsman rookie, Mike Glass picked up a top five finish in the feature.
 
358 Modified Feature (rained out feature from April 1, 2012) 25 laps 1. Meme DeSantis 2. Kevin Albert, Jr. 3. Rick Laubach 4. Doug Manmiller 5. Craig VonDohren 6. Ray Swinehart 7. Mike Gular 8. Duane Howard 9. Gary Hager 10. Glenn Strunk 11. Keith Hoffman 12. Andy Burkhart 13. Dale Hartz 14. John Willman 15. Colt Harris 16. Tommy Sheetz, Jr. 17. Mike Mammana 18. Nathan Klinger 19. Brian Houseknecht 20. Gary Wagner 21. Dan Hineline 22. Jim Bobbitt, Jr. 23. Jeff Strunk 24. Ricky Yetter 25. Danny Hieber 26. Ryan Godown

358 Regular Modfiied Feature - 25 laps 1. Meme DeSantis 2. Rick Laubach 3. Ricky Yetter 4. Colt Harris 5. Doug Manmille 6. Craig Whitmoyer 7. Keith Hoffman 8. Tommy Sheetz, Jr. 9. Dale Hartz 10. Craig VonDohren 11. Dan Hineline 12. Gary Hager 13. Glenn Strunk 14. John Willman 15. Chris Esposito 16. Jim Bobbitt, Jr. 17. Gary Wagner 18. Andy Burkhart 19. Danny Hieber 20. Mike Mammana 21. Brian Houseknecht 22. Brad Arnold 23. Jeff Strunk 24. Duane Howard 25. Ryan Godown 26. Ray Swinehart

Sportsman Feature - 20 laps 1. Criag Whitmoyer 2. Shawn Fitzpatrick 3. Kevin Beach, Jr. 4. Doug Hendricks 5. Mike Glass 6. Kaitie McCardle 7. Harry Landis 8. Heath Metzger 9. Daryl Dissinger 10. Charles Webber 11. Mike Lisowski 12. Ray Woodall, Jr. 13. Wayne Witmer 14. Steve Searock IV 15. Tim Fitzpatrick 16. Josh Hertzog

Roadrunner Feature - 20 laps 1. Joey Brennan 2. Shon Elk 3. Chip Kennedy 4. Mario Donatti 5. Jon Schlauch 6. Jim Kost 7. Brian Buchinski 8. Glen Rowan 9. Kyle Killian 10. Terry Kramer, Jr. 11. Jesse Krasnitsky 12. TJ Fitzpatrick

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Mother Nature Wins Again at Mercer  Raceway Park
 
Mercer, PA (April 21, 2012):  For the second consecutive week, Mother Nature swept the racing card at Mercer Raceway Park. Racing will return to the tricky oval on April 28, with a Saturday Night Live! program. There will be no make-up date for the e-mods.
 
Saturday's action will presentthe first opportunity for divisional champions to defend their titles. Bob Felmlee will pilot Jim Chappel's new GF-1 chassis in the Luxaire Heating & Cooling Sprint Cars. Jimmy Holden will take on the Approved Toilet Rentals 358 Modifieds. Guy Griffin will lead the way in the ti22 Performance Outla Sprint Warriors. Rusty Moore will try to regain his winning form in the Precise Racing Products Stock Cars, while Darrin Gallagher will try top repeat in the Modified Lites presented by Big Daddy's Speed Center and Rock Concrete. Last, but not least, Pete Blaczak will race his Mini Stock.
 
The gates will open at 4 p.m. and racing will begin at 7. Although there is plenty of seating at he Park, do come out early to get your favorite vantage spot.
 
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Racing Resumes Saturday at Mercer  Raceway Park; Hall is Ready
 
Mercer, PA (April 19, 2012): After a week off due to inclement weather, racing will resume this Saturday at Mercer Raceway Park. There will be a slight change to the Saturday Night Live! racing program, as the e-mods will tap in for the Precise Racing Products Stock Cars. The other customary classes will be in action. So fans will see two classes of Sprint Cars, two other divisions of Modifieds and the popular Mini Stocks.
 
The week off could not have come at a better time for veteran driver Rick Hall, of Stoneboro. He finished third in the season's first race for the Approved Toilet Rentals 358 Modifieds despite having a miss in his engine. While performing maintenance on his mount, Hall discovered that an internal part had broken and that the large fragment dropped somewhere into the innards of his MOPAR engine. That necessitated the removal of the damaged powerplant and its replacement with a spare. "We never would have been ready last week," Hall said. But, with the extra time, he's ready to take on Frank Guidace, Jimmy Holden, Lonnie Riggs, Bob Curtis, and all of the other stars in this highly competitive class.
 
Hall, who is the owner of Big Daddy's Speed Center, also reported that business has been brisk lately, so he expects to see more cars arriving at the Park in the coming weeks. "Racers are stopping in, buying more parts, so I think we will have some new cars hitting the track." Big Daddy's is a co-sponsor of the Modified Lites, along with Rock Concrete. Darrin Gallagher, defending champion in the Modified Lites, is looking to improve on his disappointing opening night performance.
One driver who is hoping that lightening will strike again is young Brandon Spithaler. He took the opener for the Luxaire Heating & Cooling Sprint Cars. He will face stiff competition from former champions like Bob Felmlee and Rod George, along with Jack Sodeman, Jr., who was the runner-up to Spithaler two weeks ago.
 
The ti22 Performance Outlaw Sprint Warriors will provide the other winged excitement. Will Guy Griffin continue his domination of the class, or will some of the younger talents step up to dethrone the king? Justin Whitesell, Jacob Lagastee and Dennis Wagner are just some of them who have the skill and equipment to pull it off.
 
The e-mods will be back for their second and final appearance of the year at Mercer Raceway Park. Rob Johnson scored in the Chiller Thriller and he is expected back this week. A repeat would give him the bragging rights for sure!
 
Completing the card will be the Mini Stocks. Defending champion Pete Blaczak was on the charge when he suffered a blown engine a few weeks ago. He'll be back, along with Ed Haylett, Mike McConnell (the most recent winner), Tim Callahan, and many more. Plus, if you are interested in a sponsorship opportunity for the Mini Stocks, please contact track manager Frank Benic for further details.
 
The gates will open at 4 p.m. and racing will begin at 7. Although there is plenty of seating at he Park, do come out early to get your favorite vantage spot.
 
All of this racing action will be yours for the low price of $13 for adults, $11 for seniors (age 60+), and $5 for students (ages 9-15). Children ages 8 and under are always admitted free. The Family Pass will admit two adults and up to four children of any age for just $28. Pit passes will be $25.

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NASCAR 358 MODS, LATE MODELS AND SPORTSMAN ON SATURDAY AT GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY
Small Car Series Kicks Off On Sunday Afternoon
 
BECHTELSVILLE, PA April 18, 2012 . . . Can someone beat Duane Howard and Ron Kline at Grandview Speedway? The answer will come on Saturday (April 21) when the NASCAR 358 Modifieds, Late Models and Sportsman stock cars race at the one-third-mile, banked clay oval.

Howard, at the wheel of the Blue Bell Air No. 4, will be seeking his third Saturday night win in a row in the NASCAR 358 Modifieds. And Ron Kline, driving the V&M Towing No. 3, will be trying to do the same thing when the Late Models take to the track.

Attention will be centered on these two veteran drivers to see if they can win again.

In the third division, Sportsman stock cars, there have been two different winners (Jared Umbenhauer and Brad Brightbill) since the season started. Fans will be anxious to see if there is a third winner.

A full series of qualifying events will be presented for each division with the Modifieds running a 30 -lap feature to close out their portion of the show. The Late Models and Sportsman will run in 20-lap features.

Spectator gates open at 5 p.m. with racing getting the green flag at 7 p.m. Pit gates are open at 3 p.m. Adult admission to the grandstands is $15 and youngsters 12 and under are admitted for free. There is always FREE parking on the speedway grounds. Pit admission with a NASCAR license is $30.

The first Sunday Small Car Series events of the season are set for Sunday, April 22nd with a 2 p.m. starting time. Included in the exciting afternoon of racing action will be the 270 cc and 600 cc Micro Sprints, Slingshots and 600 Modifieds. Adult admission is jut $5 and those showing their ticket stub from the Saturday night stock car racing events will be admitted for just $4. Pit admission is $30

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RANSOMVILLE SPEEDWAY AND CANANDAIGUA MOTORSPORTS PARK OFFERING FRIENDSHIP PASS TO ITS COMPETITORS
 
In an effort to provide unity between the two tracks, both Ransomville (NY) Speedway and Canandaigua (NY) Motorsports Park will be offering a "Friendship Pass" to each of it's competitors for the 2012 season.
 
The program will be allowed for Ransomville Speedway's Sportsman and Street Stock Division along with the Canandaigua Motorsports Park Sportsman and Pure Stock classes only. Each driver who chooses to use the friendship pass will be allowed to get a "buy one get one free" pit pass. Each race team will be able to use the program for up to three of it's members, which will allow six persons from each team to benefit.
 
Under the DIRTcar Northeast banner, the Sportsman Division run under the same rules. Ransomville Speedway's Street Stock class and Canandaigua's Pure Stock Division each run under similar rules and are unsanctioned.
 
The Friendship Pass can only be used for a regular night of racing. No special events. Drivers can take advantage of the Buy One Get One promotion a total of three times a season. You must also be a regular weekly competitor at Ransomville Speedway or Canandaigua Motorsports Park to qualify for the promotion. 
 
"Since we're both a part of DIRTcar Northeast, we consider Canandaigua Motorsports Park one of our sister tracks," says Ransomville Speedway public relations and marketing director Tana Robinson. "We'd love to see Canandaigua's regular drivers compete with us as well as some of our drivers going down the Thruway to Canandiagua on Saturday."
 
"The program will allow those drivers to save a few dollars. We know that the expenses for gasoline are going up. The buy one get one format will allow those to save some money on the traveling costs."
 
Canandaigua Motorsports Park General Manager Jeremie Corcoran is currently in his second season at the helm of the Ontario County Fairgrounds half-mile oval.
 
"We're proud to be working with Jeremie and his staff at Canandaigua," adds Robinson. "We also work with Brewerton Speedway with our Alex Friesen Summer Nationals. We at Ransomville Speedway feel it's essential to work together with other racing facilities to help each other out."
 
The Friendship Pass program will begin immediately. Canandaigua Motorsports Park has successfully run a pair of racing programs to open it's 2012 season. Ransomville Speedway will open it's 55th year of racing on Friday, May 4th. The test tune and time program is scheduled for Friday, April 27th. Ransomville Speedway has also scheduled an additional practice session for this Saturday, April 21st. Canandaigua Motorsports Park will run a five division program this Saturday night.

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CAREER WIN #74 FOR VONDOHREN AT BIG DIAMOND

Hendricks Wins Race #1 of AMSOIL Series for Sportsman

Craig VonDohren drove his Pioneer Pole Building sponsored #1c into Victory Lane for the first time in 2012, winning the first point race of the season at the Big Diamond Speedway.  It was win number 74 for the winningest driver in Big Diamond history as he over powered Doug Manmiller on a lap ten restart to take the lead.
 
Manmiller outgunned VonDohren at the start, putting the Scheaffer Harley Davidson T102 into the lead at the green flag.  Last week's race winner, Rick Laubach moved into third at the start while Jeff Strunk threaded the needle between Glenn Strunk and Gary Wagner to take over fourth as the field headed down the backstretch.
 
The top seemed to be the preferred line around the track as Manmiller and later, VonDohren would elect to start from the outside on restarts. 
 
Manmiller maintained his lead following a lap five caution for Ron Haring, Jr.  When Ricky Yetter had motor problems and was unable to exit the track on his own, the caution flew again on lap ten.
 
On the lap ten restart, VonDohren held his position to run side by side with Manmiller as the pair took the green.  Going into turn one, VonDohren moved ahead of Manmiller to take the lead. 
 
Laubach and Strunk swapped the third position several times before the Benton Electric #7 began to fade.  At the half way point, VonDohren and Manmiller were followed by Strunk, Duane Howard and Meme DeSantis. 
 
Laubach would head for the pits on lap nineteen with mechanical issues. 
 
With VonDohren out in front, the contest remained for second through fifth.  Strunk would use the inside to take over second from Manmiller in the final laps.  Howard tried to follow Strunk into third but Manmiller prevailed. 
 
After a strong run to win the first Modified heat, Kevin Albert, Jr., moved ahead of DeSantis and into the top five with just five laps to go.  DeSantis pulled along side of Albert as the pair crossed the finish line but Albert held a slight advantage to take the spot. 
 
Doug Hendricks powered into the lead on a lap thirteen restart and went on to take the win in the first of five AMSOIL series races for the Big Diamond Sportsman division.  For Hendricks, it was a $1000 pay day and the lion's share of the special points in the first of the AMSOIL special events. 
 
Like VonDohren, Hendricks is also a top winning driver at the Big Diamond Speedway.  Before moving into the Sportsman ranks, Hendricks accumulated the most wins to date in the Roadrunner division.
 
Kaitie McCardle took the lead from polesitter, Hendricks at the green and led the first twelve laps.  The Lebanon Valley College freshman would finish second ahead of Kyle Borror and Kevin Beach, Jr., battled for the third position.  Andy Fayash would round out the top five.

Joey Brennan held off the advances of Jim Kost to claim victory in the Wooden Keg Roadrunner feature event.  Chip Kennedy took third ahead of Shon Elk as TJ Fitzpatrick finished fifth.
 
Race notes - The fastest lap of the day was turned by Meme DeSantis while winning the third Modified heat race.  DeSantis' lap of 16.828 was just a hair faster than Kevin Albert's best time when he won the first heat or VonDohren's best lap which came during the running of the 25 lap feature event.  Neil Williams made his first Big Diamond appearance and qualified the #323ov in his heat race.  Williams is a regular at the New Egypt Speedway and finished just outside of the top ten in his first Big Diamond attempt.  Keith Hoffman made his first start of the season in his own #6. 
   
358 Modifieds (25 laps)  1. Craig VonDohren 2. Jeff Strunk 3. Doug Manmiller 4. Duane Howard 5. Kevin Albert, Jr. 6. Meme DeSantis 7. Dan Hineline 8. Glenn Strunk 9. Ray Swinehart 10. Andy Burkhart 11. Gary Wagner 12. Keith Hoffman 13. Neil Williams 14. Nathan Klinger 15. Jim Bobbit Jr. 16. Dale Hartz 17. Gary Hager 18. Mike Mammana 19. Danny Hieber 20. Colt Harris 21. Sammy Piazza 22. Rick Laubach 23. John Willman 24. Brad Arnold 25. Ron Haring Jr. 26. Ricky Yetter
 
Sportsman (20 laps) - Race #1 in AMSOIL Sportsman Series
1. Doug Hendricks 2. Kaitie McCardle 3. Kyle Borror 4. Kevin Beach Jr. 5. Andy Fayash 6. Mike Lyons 7. Ray Woodhall Jr. 8. Brad Brightbill 9. Tim Fitzpatrick 10. Steve Searock IV 11. Wayne Whitmer 12. Mike Glass 13. Charles Webber 14. Billy Moyer Jr. 15. Daryl Dissinger 16. Heath Metzger 17. Harry Landis 18. Craig Whitmoyer 19. Corey Renninger 20. Josh Hertzog 21. Mike Lisowski 22. Shawn Fitzpatrick
 
Roadrunners (15 laps) 1. Joey Brennan 2. Jim Kost 3. Chip Kennedy 4. Shon Elk 5. TJ Fitzpatrick 6. Brian Buchinski 7. Jon Schlauch 8. Glen Rowan 9. Jared Siegfried 10. Jesse Krasnitsky 11. Bob Vesay 12. Terry Kramer Jr. 13. Marc Berzowski 14. Kyle Killian 15. Dave Long Jr.

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HOWARD AND KLINE WIN FOR SECOND WEEK IN A ROW WHILE BRAD BRIGHTBILL GETS FIRST WIN AT GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY
 
Bechtelsville, PA April 15, 2012 . . . Duane Howard was able to win the 50-lap NASCAR Whelen All American Series 358 Modified feature at Grandview Speedway comfortably on Saturday night. The win, worth $4250, was the second in a row for the Oley, PA racer at the wheel of the Blue Bell Air No. 4 Modified owned by Blue Bell’s Chad Sinon.
 
Also winning for the second week in a row was Ron Kline as the veteran racer came from 18th starting spot to get the lead in the final turn of the final lap of the 50 lap Late Model feature. The Salford, PA racer was at the wheel of the V&M Towing No. 3 as he picked up $1600 for his winning efforts.
 
And in the Sportsman 50 lapper that closed out the triple 50 feature show Brad Brightbill of Sinking Spring, PA was able to bring his Roadrunner Racing Fuels No. 19 home for his first win at the Berks County clay oval. Brightbill, son of dirt track racing legend Kenny Brightbill, earned $1,600 for his win.
 
All three feature winners were able to add to the announced win money by earning bonus bucks from T.P. Trailers of Limerick, PA as all three carried the T.P. decals clearly visible on each side of their race cars.
 
Even before the first lap was completed in the 50-lap main event for the 358 Modifieds Meme DeSantis brought out the caution coming to a stop in turn two. And both Ryan Grim and Jon Kellner Sr. were headed for the pits.
 
Young Michael Weinert set the pace for the first dozen laps of the Modified feature race with Glenn Strunk charging to the front on the 13th circuit of the one-third-mile, banked clay track. Duane Howard, coming from 16th starting position, took the lead after a few laps of side-by-side action with Strunk.
 
In the first half of the race no less than five different drivers brought out cautions as they stopped on the track for a variety of problems.
 
Once in front Howard was able to hold off challenges from Glenn Strunk, Craig VonDohren, Ray Swinehart and Shawn Reimert.
 
Swinehart went to the pits on the 30th lap while running in the top five.
 
Six time track champion Craig VonDohren was able to slide up in front of Glenn Strunk in the second turn to take over second on the 33rd lap and set his sights on the leader.

Howard was able to hold on to the top spot with a comfortable margin of victory when the checkered flag fell while VonDohren (Boyertown) had to settle for second. Shawn Reimert (Oley) came home third followed by Bechtelsville’s Glenn Strunk and Michael Weinert (Tamaqua).
 
Howard had high praise for his crew as he celebrated his second win of the season and is the current point leader in the NASCAR 358 Modified division.
 
The most exciting event of the night had to be the 50-lap Late Model feature race that saw Andy Ressler lead for half the race before Mike Kellner was able to put his Mary Kay/Power Washer No. 57 in front of the field. The second half of the 50 lapper was a battle between Kellner and challenger Danny Snyder.
 
With the checkered flag in the hand of starter of Ray Kemp Kellner and Snyder battled for the top spot with Ron Kline sticking his nose in. With the finish line in sight Kellner and Snyder made contact while Kellner hitting the wall hard.
 
With the caution out the field was set for the final lap with Ron Kline in front and able to hold off the challenge of second place finisher Sean Merkel (Gilbertsville). Defending champion Chuck Schutz (Pottstown) came home third followed by early leader Andy Ressler (Emmaus) and Lou Egrie Sr. (Willow Grove).
 
Kline told the crowd from victory lane “that he did not like winning that way (with the wreck that took out the leaders so close to the finish).”
 
A multi car tangle on the first lap had Mike Stringer in front on the restart. At ten laps Kyle Borror went to the front and held the top spot until the 25th lap when
Brad Brightbill, coming from 14th starting spot took the lead. In the closing laps Paul Kline (Muhlenberg) was able to challenge Brightbill for the win but had to settle for the number two spot. Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg) came on strong to finish third. Borror (Peach Bottom) managed to hold on for fourth while Ryan Beltz (Harleysville) came home fifth.
 
“I drove the car as hard as a car would go,” said winner Brightbill. “The car was on a rail (handling well).” Brightbill made sure to give all his sponsors proper credit for their involvement with the winning team.

Qualifying heats for the NASCAR 358 Modifieds, each 12 laps, were won by Ron Seltman, Shawn Reimert, Michael Weinert and Addison Meitzler. Consolation races for the Modifieds, each 10 laps, had Mike Gular and John Willman winning.
 
The three eight lap qualifying heats for the Late Models were won by Andy Ressler, Danny Snyder and Mike Kellner. And qualifiers for the Sportsman racers, also eight laps, had Steve Searock and Kevin Beach winning.

358 MODIFIED FEATURE - 50 LAPS: 1. Duane Howard 2. Craig VonDohren 3. Shawn Reimert 4. Glenn Strunk 5. Michael Weinert 6. Kyle Weiss 7. Mike Gular 8. Jeff Strunk (started last with a provisional) 9. Kyle Follweiler 10. Doug Manmiller 11. Don Norris Jr. 12. Addison Meitzler 13. Kevin Hirthler 14. Terry Meitzler 15. Kevin Albert Jr. 16. Ron Seltman 17. Danny Erb 18. John Willman 19. Jarrod Miller 20. Chris Esposito  21.Jordan Umbenhauer 22. Tommy Sheetz Jr. 23. Jon Kellner Jr.24. Ray Swinehart 25. Brad Missimer 26. Mike Laise 27. Jon Kellner Sr. 28. Ryan Grim 29. Meme DeSantis
 
LATE MODELS, 50 LAPS: 1. Ron Kline 2. Sean Merkel 3. Chuck Schutz 4. Andy Ressler 5. Lou Egrie Sr. 6. Doug Walton 7. Rick Todorow 8. Jason Miller 9. Dallas Breidenbach 10. John Giesler 11. Lee Miller 12. Mike Kellner 13. Danny Snyder 14. Bill Henning 15. Dirk Rimrott 16. Steve Butler 17. Kory Fleming 18. Steve Nederostek 19. David Ogin 20. Drew Weisser 21. Mark Minotto 22. Buddy Mertz 23. P.J. Oliver 24. Wayne Pfeil Jr.
 
SPORTSMAN, 50 LAPS: 1. Brad Brightbill 2. Paul Kline 3.Craig Whitmoyer 4. Kyle Borror 5. Ryan Beltz 6. Jared Umbenhauer 7. Ray Woodhall 8. Joe Funk 9. Mike Lisowski 10. Dave Dissinger 11. Erik Renninger 12. Steve Searock 13. Brian Hirthler 14. Mike Stringer 15. Nick DeSantis 16. Steve Lozorak 17. Dan Lorenzi 18. Kevin Beach 19. Blaine Hemery 20. Kevin Brady 21. Mike Loney 22. Bobby Lilick 23. Corey Seachrist
 
UNOFFICIAL  POINT STANDINGS FOR NASCAR MODIFIEDS
AS OF APRIL 14, 2012
1. Duane Howard, Oley, PA #4 619**
2. Craig VonDohren, Boyertown, PA #1C 573
3. Jeff Strunk, Pottstown, PA #357 530
4. Kyle Weiss, Hamburg, PA  #21K 527
5. Doug Manmiller, Shoemakersville, PA #46 506
6. Kyle Follweiler, Slatington, PA  #42 445
7. Terry Meitzler, Kutztown, PA   #81 438
8. Don Norris, Douglassville, PA  #976 434
9. Mike Gular, Green Lane, PA  #3G 432
10. John Willman, Birdsboro, PA  #74W 384

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Mercer Raceway Park Rained Out, Point Battles to Begin April 21!

Mercer, PA (April 20, 2012):  With rain starting to fall and forecasts calling for thunderstorms and rain throughout the evening, officials at Mercer Raceway Park cancelled the racing program scheduled for April 14. Thus, the battle for the prestigious points championships will begin next Saturday, April 20.

There will be a slight change in the Saturday Night Live! program next week. The Precise Racing Products Stock Car class will be given the night off, but the e-mods will be back for a return engagement. As usual, there will be double the fun with two classes of Sprint Cars, the Luxaire Heating & Cooling Sprints and the ti22 Perfiormance Outlaw Sprint Warriors. The Approved Toilet Rentals 358 Modifieds will see action for the second time this season, as will the Modified Lites presented by Big Daddy's Speed Center and Rock Concrete. The popular Mini Stocks will round out the card.

The gates will swing open at 4 p.m. and racing will begin at 7. Come out early to get your favorite seats.

Ticket prices will be $13 for adults, $11 for seniors, and $5 for students. Children 8 and under are always admitted free. The ecomonical Family Pass will cost $28, and that will be good for two adults and up to four children of any age. Pit passes will be just $25.

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CENTRAL NEW YORK RACING STAR TIM CURRIER TO CALL RANSOMVILLE SPEEDWAY HIS FRIDAY NIGHT HOME
 
Tim Currier is one of the northeast's rising young modified stars.
 
For the 2012 season, the Auburn, NY resident will make Ransomville Speedway a weekly Friday night stop.
 
Currier joins a star studded lineup for the track's headlining Mighty Taco 358 Modified Division. Currier will be looking for valuable DIRTcar 358 Modified points.
Tim has driven Ransomville Speedway only twice and that was behind the wheel of a DIRTcar Sportsman.
 
"This will be my first time at Ransomville Speedway in a 358 Modified," said Currier in a recent telephone interview. "I look forward to the challenge of the class."
 
"I'm going to be out here to have some fun," adds Currier. They've got a competitive field here and with the track talking about B-Main's, I'm going to have to work hard to qualify every night."
 
Currier has sparked interest in his racing program when he won a big block modified feature a few years back at Canandaigua Motorsports Park.
"That night, we went to the speedway and made a change in our shock programs. They had double features that night. I started up front. I can still remember holding off Steve Paine. He was all over me. They also had five cautions in the last three laps. This was very memorable in my career."
Currier still remembers the feeling after that victory."We were very excited. Canandaigua has always had a tough modified field. To get a win like that and beating a driver like Steve Paine was incredible."
 
Tim was into local stock car racing in his single digit age years. His dad, John Currier, was a sponsor of DIRTcar Modified ace Chuck Bower. Currier Plastics, the family owned business supported Bower for several years. Tim spent his early years in the pits and in the garage helping out with the Bower driven chassis. When Tim was ten years old, he started racing Quarter Midgets with the Syracuse Quarter Midget Club and the Oswego Quarter Midgets. When he was 16 years old, he jumped into a DIRTcar Sportsman. "We looked into Mini Sprints and Slingshots," said Currier. "However, we were familiar with those cars. Stu Sheppard offered to become our crew chief and with his years of experience...we accepted." Stu Sheppard is the father of current two time DIRTcar Modified champion Matt Sheppard.
 
Currier has had enough experience where he should fit in well with the Ransomville Speedway Mighty Taco 358 Modified field. He's another addition to a division that's proving to be incredibly talented.

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INSINGER PERFORMANCE 370 MODIFIEDS MAKE FIRST APPEARANCE OF 2K12 AT THE WOODHULL RACEWAY.

BRP Can Am Series to make first of three appearances at Woodhull as part of April 28 show.

(Woodhull, NY)  The wait will soon be over!  The region’s top division, the Insinger Performance 370 Modifieds will make their season debut on Saturday, April 28, 2012 at the Woodhull Raceway. 

For decades, the Small Block Modifieds have been the biggest drawing card at the popular Steuben County oval and 2012 promises to be one of the best in recent memory with a who’s who list of the area’s top drivers to see weekly competition. 

Billy VanPelt and his Two Rivers Timber/Instant Heat Wood Pellets/Spiegel Recycling supported team will be back to try and defend his 2011 track title, however as VanPelt enters his 25th season of action at Woodhull he will have his hands full as a slew of top names will be trying to dethrone “The Kid”!  VanPelt’s car owner, Kevin Chilson will lead the charge along with familiar names like Al Rudalavage, Mike Bills, Donnie Lawson, Frank Dunning, Dave Dubois, Kenny Peoples Jr., and Dale Welty just to name a few

In addition to the Insinger 370 Modifieds also in action will be the NAPA 360 Late Models, the S&W Awards and Photos Crate Sportsman, the Morgan’s Auto Street Stocks, as well as Signs Plus Mini Stocks.  The LaBarron Brothers Repair and Parts Front Wheel Drive Division rounds out the Big 6 Show at Woodhull.

For the NAPA 360 LM set it will be a tour event as the BRP Can Am Series will invade the high banked one third of a mile clay oval making the April 28 event their first of three trips to Woodhull in 2012.

Jeremy Wonderling is all set to defend his 2011 BRP Can AM Series title and he has a terrific winning per start ratio at Woodhull.

Gates for the April 28 event open at 4:30 with racing at 6:30 pm

The night of action will be sponsored by a long time marketing partner of the Woodhull Raceway as representatives of Pepsi will be on hand.  PEPSI and PEPSI products is the Official Drink Beverages of the Woodhull Raceway.

For more information including information on how you can register at rainedout.com simply log on at www.woodhullraceway.com.

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GUIDACE READY TO RUMBLE AT MERCER RACEWAY PARK
 
Mercer, PA (April 11, 2012): Throughout the 2011 season, Frank "on the gas" Guidace and Jimmy "the Jet" Holden battled for supremacy in the Approved Toilet Rentals 358 Modified Division at Mercer Raceway Park. They swapped the top spot in the points several times and it was not until the final night of points that Holden was able to salt the title away. Well, this Saturday, the battle will resume, and Guidace is already in mid-season form.
 
Last weekend, Guidace romped to victory in an immaculate new car. The Troyer chassis and Hine Racing engine were working to perfection. His arch rival, Holden, never got the chance to show his hand, though, as a mechanical problem prevented him from starting the race. Fortunately for Holden, last Saturday did not count towards the chapionship. So the duo will start dead even.
 
The Modified talent runs deeper than Guidace and Holden. Matt Reeher led the start of last week's event, and he's hungry for a win. Steady veteran Rick Hall logged a top five and Rapid Rob Curtis, a winner in 2011, looks to make his mark.
 
And, what about those rookies? Mikayla Guidace and Max Smoker registered top ten finishes in their very first races in the class. Guidace is driving the very same car that her father, Frank, ran so successfully in the past. Smoker is the son of former winner Gary Smoker, and his car has been to victory lane at the Park, too. So, with proven equipment, it won't be long until these youngsters are challenging the vets.
 
Brandon Spithaler won the opening event for the Luxaire Heating & Cooling Sprint Cars, just as he did in 2011. Spithaler is hoping that he can show more consistency and he would like nothing more than to be the first to double up in the potent winged machines.
 
Runner-up Jack Sodeman, Jr. showed no signs of rust. He had not turned a lap at the Park since suffering season-ending injuries in a racing accident in Canada. Former champ Rod George, the Kittanning Comet, charged into the top five in a car that brought a tear to the eye of his primnary sponsor, Dr. John Crawford. George's car carried the colors and number of Crawford's famed CIII, which was a dominant car when driven by popular Jimmy Hawley. Don't count out the reigning champion, Bob Felmlee. He's now driving for Jim Chappetl, and we all know how good Cahppel's cars can be.
 
Joe Kelly and Andy Buckley thrilled the fans in the Precise Racing Products Stock Cars. They slid across the finish line sideways, with Kelly barely edging out Buckley for the win. Close behind were Trusty Rusty Moore and Dan Lewis. This quartet, and many more will be in action on Saturday night.
 
Guy Griffin will lead the ti22 Performance Outlaw Sprint Warriors into battle once again. Griffin announced in his post-race interview that the 2012 season will be his swan song. Who will be his heir apparent?
 
Josh Sliter led a Canadian invasion in the Modified Lites presented by Big Daddy's Speed Center and Rock Concrete. But there will be no shortage of local talent to defend the home turf. Mark Marcucci had a strong second place finish. Regional champion Jeff Teeters and track champion, Darrin Gallagher, will also be in the hunt.
 
Last, but not least, the popular Mini Stocks will also be on hand. Mike McConnell took the win last week. Trooper Tim Callahan, defending champ Pete Blaczak and Steady Ed Haylett will do their best to unseat him.
 
The gates will swing open at 4 p.m. and racing will begin at 7. Come out early to get your favorite seats.
 
Ticket prices will be $13 for adults, $11 for senior, and $5 for students. Children 8 and under are always admitted free. The ecomonical Family Pass will cost $28, and that will be good for two adults and up to four children of any age. Pit passes will be just $25.
 
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LAUBACH PICKS UP BACK TO BACK SEASON OPENERS AT BIG DIAMOND SPEEDWAY

Win Earns Laubach Guaranteed Spot in SuperNationals

Rick Laubach has started a tradition. 

For the second year in a row, Laubach has walked away with the winner’s share of the purse on opening day at the Big Diamond Speedway.  After the season opener was a wash out the week before, beautiful sunny but breezy conditions prevailed for the special Easter Day show, celebrating Big Diamond’s 40th season of competition.

Laubach’s win netted the driver and owners of the Benton Electric #7 a $4,000 payday.  In addition to his winnings, Laubach’s win also earned him a guaranteed starting berth in the Short Track SuperNationals in October. 

The special Easter Extravaganza was a non-point event at the Big Diamond Speedway, run under RoC type rules.  Starting positions for the forty lap feature event were determined by luck of the draw with Gary Hager and Laubach leading the field to the green.  Laubach wasted no time in taking control of the lead and was never seriously challenged throughout the event as he led flag to flag for his first victory of the 2012 season. 

Gary Hager ran a strong second, holding off several advances by Ryan Godown in the Clay Realty #88c.  Godown crossed the line in third, just ahead of Jeff Strunk in the Norm Hansell #357 as Strunk made a late race charge for position.  Billy Pauch Sr. finished fifth after going wide while attempting to make a pass by Godown for third.

A multi-car pile-up on lap eight of the race brought out the red flag as all but the front runners were involved in the homestretch incident.  Most competitors were able to pit for repairs and return to the rear of the field.  The cars of Danny Hieber, Duane Howard and Billy Pauch Jr. were the most severely damaged and were done for the day. 

Brad Brightbill picked up the win in the twenty lap Sportsman feature event after starting from the pole position.  Kaitie McCardle challenged Brightbill for the lead at the start of the race but settled into second where she held off former track champion, Craig Whitmoyer who finished third.  Tim Fitzpatrick finished fourth ahead of Ryan Watt to complete the top five.
 
Jim Kost and his Brick House #126 was the winner of the Roadrunner feature event after fighting off the repeated challenges of Elvin Brennan III.  Shoe Elk finished third followed by rookies Jesse Krasnitsky and Dave Long Jr. 

Notes - Craig VonDohren was able to rebound from two incidents in the first ten laps of the race to finish sixth.   Kevin Albert Jr had a top ten finish evaporate when he ran out of fuel with three laps to go.  Kyle Weiss ran Craig Whitmoyer’s #99 in the Modified competition while Ryan Watt returned to compete in a second Kevin Beach #17x.  Gary Wagner did double duty, competing in both the Modified and Sportsman events, finishing in the top ten in both. 

40 lap Modified Feature Finish - 1. Rick Laubach 2. Gary Hager 3. Ryan Godown 4. Jeff Strunk 5. Billy Pauch 6. Craig VonDohren 7. Colt Harris 8. Sammy Piazza 9. Doug Manmiller 10. Gary Wagner 11. Kyle Weiss 12. Dale Hartz 13. Kevin Albert Jr. 14. Jim Bobbitt Jr 15. Vince Gagliardo 16. Meme DeSantis 17. Mike Mamanna 18.  Dominic Buffalino 19. Nathan Klinger 20. Dave Witte 21. Neil Huber 22. Billy Pauch Jr. 23. Duane Howard 24. Danny Hieber 25. Michael Weinert 26. Brad Arnold 27. Ricky Yetter 28. Shawn Fitzpatrick

20 lap Sportsman Feature Finish -  1. Brad Brightbill 2. Kaitie McCardle 3. Craig Whitmoyer 4. Tim Fitzpatrick 5. Ryan Watt 6. Doug Hendricks 7. Tim Apgar 8. Gary Wagner Jr. 9. Wayne Witmer 10. Harry Landis 11. Shawn Fitzpatrick 12. Corey Renninger 13. Mike Glass 14. Mike Lisowski 15. Kevin Beach Jr.

Roadrunner Feature Finish -  1. Jim Kost 2. Elvin Brennan III 3. Shon Elk 4. Jesse Krasnitsky 5. Dave Long Jr. 6. Terry Kramer Jr. 7. Bob Vesay 8. TJ Fitzpatrick 9. Brian Buchinski 10. Alan Renninger 11. Joey Brennan 12. jason Brown 13. Chip Kennedy

DNS - Glen Rowan 

DQ - Jared Seigfried - failed post-race inspection

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TRIPLE 50 FEATURES AT GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY SATURDAY NASCAR 358 MODS RACE FOR $4,000 PLUS
 
BECHTELSVILLE, PA April 8, 2012 . . . With the first racing events in the books all attention turns to the 50th Anniversary Special at Grandview Speedway.
Triple features will be the attraction for fans as racers in all three divisions (NASCAR 358 Modifieds, Late Models and Sportsman) each battle in 50-lap feature races on Saturday, April 14 at 7 p.m.

The NASCAR 358 Modifieds will have $4,000 going to the winner while the Sportsman and Late Models will each race for $1,500 to win.

In addition there is extra cash for winners that carry the T.P. Trailers decals on each side of their car in a clearly visible location. The Modified winner gets a $250 bonus while the Sportsman and Late Model winner receive an extra $100 as long as they follow the rules for the cash.

Each division will race in a series of qualifying events with the top performers making the cut and qualifying for the 50-lap feature races. No driver can compete in more than one division.

Adult admission for the event is $25 while youngsters 12 and under pay just $5. And there is always FREE parking on the speedway grounds.

Coming up for the next two Saturdays will be tripleheader shows that offer NASCAR 358 Modifieds, Late Models and Sportsman. The April 21st and April 28th shows will have a 7 p.m. starting time with adults paying just $15 with youngsters 12 and under admitted FREE.

New this year is the Sunday Small Car Series which kicks off on Sunday, April 22nd at 2 p.m. The show will feature racing for 270 and 600 Micros, Slingshots and 600 Modifieds. Admission for adults is just $5.

And the NEETS Enduro racers return to action on Sunday, April 29th after having their March 31st show rained out. The Enduro events feature racing for the big cars and small cars plus the ladies. An added attraction is the appearance of the Blast from the Past Vintage Cars.

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DON BARNES TO MAKE RANSOMVILLE SPEEDWAY HIS FRIDAY NIGHT HOME IN 2012

It's has been five seasons since Don Barnes has run Ransomville Speedway on a regular basis.

The 2012 season will mark his return to regular weekly racing at the Niagara County based half-mile oval.

Barnes was the Ransomville Speedway 2002 Street Stock champion. It was also the same year that Barnes won the Street Stock portion of the King of the Hill. At that time, the Pro Stocks were still the headlining division for the two day program.

Just what does Barnes expect to do when he comes back to Ransomville Speedway for the track's 55th season opener on Friday, May 4th?

"Everyone wants to win. I expect to win. That's the reason I'm in the car. I'd like to be consistent too."

Barnes only had a handful of events in the New Legends Sportsman Division at Canandaigua Motorsports Park in 2011. This will be his first full season in the Sportsman class. Living in Alabama, NY, Barnes had been in the Pro Stock Division since the 2004 season. Ransomville Speedway officials took the class off it's 2007 schedule after lower car counts forced some changes. Barnes has been a competitor on the DIRTcar Pro Stock Series for several years before moving into the Sportsman ranks last year.

Don will be driving for noted car owner Ken Banker in 2012.

He was a seventh place finisher in Pro Stock points at Ransomville in 2006, the division's final season. He was the only driver in the pit area with a crate motor. It was also a time where weight restrictions were yet to be met against the open motors.

"Year after year when we drove that class, I got better," said Barnes of the Pro Stock class. "It was better consistency. I then got my first win and I got very confident."

Don got his first taste of a Ransomville Speedway Street Stock when visited a friend, Dave Kramp, in 1997. He got behind the wheel just to get the feeling of a stock car. Kramp then told him to drive the car around his yard.

"That was it. I knew that racing was what I wanted to do.

Don also credits Al and Char Kramp for his start in racing.

With Ransomville Speedway on his 2012 schedule, Barnes would also like to run the DIRTcar Sportsman tour.

"We've thought about it but we're going to need a sponsor to do that."

Barnes doesn't rule out selected events on the series, which also includes Rolling Wheels Raceway.

Sponsoring Don Barnes with the 2012 Ken Banker effort is Hydro Fabrication Inc of Middleport, Niagara Metals of Royalton, Durf's Tire Sales of Gasport, Frank's Collision of Royalton and CNFX Design of Ransomville.

On the pit crew is Ray Banker, Steve Brownley, Chet Emel, Brook Banker and Nicky Emel.

With the Ransomville Speedway Sportsman Division a tough group to compete against, Don Barnes will be a welcome addition and very competition right out of the box.

Ransomville Speedway welcomes Don Barnes back to his roots. We're wishing him the best.

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Brockville Ontario Speedway season kicks off with salute to 2011 champs
 
BROCKVILLE-The 2012 racing season for Brockville Ontario Speedway kicked off Saturday night with a look back at 2011.  The annual awards banquet packed Boston Pizza in Brockville for the evening.  Danny O Brien claimed his 10th trophy as Modified track champion as thoughts began to turn to getting out onto the track in just under a month with the annual test and tune is scheduled for May 5th.
 
The other four champions were also crowned on Saturday night, Chris Herbison for the Sportsman, Kevin Fetterly Jr in the Street Stocks, Jean Marc Larose in the Rookies and Vintage champ Wayne Riddell, also recieved the coveted track champions jackets.  The annual trip for Two draw for drivers in the top two divisons with perfect attendance went to Sportsman pilot and Race 101 scholarship winner Tabatha Murphy. Next up is the track's first ever season preview next week.

The 1st annual BOS Fan Fare will be held on Saturday April 14th at Home Hardware Building Centre, 584 Stewart Blvd in Brockville.  O Brien himself will be among the drivers at the free event that will run from 10am to 2pm and will also feature the 2011 Modified and Sportsmen BOS 5 Stars and their new cars for the 2012 season.  Also among those confirmed are Stephane LaFrance, Matt Billings, Tim O Brien and Bobby Herrington from the Modified division.  Heribson headlines the Sportsman drivers taking part along with Dylan Evoy and Dana Aikins. Fan Fare will also be accepting donations for Big Brothers and Big Sisters. There will be a BBQ at noon and the band “Rock Bottom” will be rocking the parking lot. Season’s passes and handy 2012 season pocket schedules will be available and the media is also invited.
 
The track also announced this week that it will honour it's rich 43 year history with the formation of the NAPA Auto Parts/Finish Line Web Design Brockville Speedway Hall of Fame. Nominees will be accepted on the Brockville Speedway Facebook Fan Page from now until the start of the 2012 season. Once the season starts, all the nominees will go up on the BOS website for fan voting. The first round of inductees will be announced at the NAPA Auto Parts night at the track on Saturday, July 28th.
 
Inductees will be showcased in a designated spot behind the main grandstand and will receive a commemorative plaque. Fans can make nominations for the inaugural class of the Brockville Ontario Speedway Hall of Fame by visiting the Facebook fan page at www.facebook.com/BrockvilleOntarioSpeedway. 

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50TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON KICKOFF FEATURES GO TO HOWARD, KLINE AND JARED UMBENHAUER AT GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY
 
BECHTELSVILLE, PA April 8, 2012 . . . The 50th Anniversary celebration at Grandview Speedway got off to big start on Saturday night with a big crowd in the grandstands to watch Duane Howard, Ron Kline and Jared Umbenhauer win the NASCAR Whelen All American Series feature races.

Howard, a past champion, was able to lead just about every lap as he won the 30-lap NASCAR 358 Modified feature race by a comfortable margin driving the Chad Sinon owned Blue Bell Air modified.

The veteran racer from Oley, PA had high praise for the track conditions as the race was run from green flag to checkered flag without a single caution lap.

“I was hanging on at the end,” said Howard in victory lane. “It was great to get the new car dialed in this early in the season. The track held up well and made for w very wide racing surface.”

Howard picked up a $250 bonus from T.P. Trailers of Limerick, PA for winning and having the T.P. Trailers decals clearly visible on both sides of the race car.

Ron Kline put his Harleysville Mattress/V&M Towing entry in front of the pack at the start of the 20-lap feature for Late Models. Danny Snyder gave Kline a strong challenge and actually took the lead when Kline went high in turn one. Kline came back to get the top spot on the 19th lap and went on to win.

“The brake pedal just went to the floor (on the 17th lap when Kline went high in turn one) and I just went high,” said Salford, PA based Kline as he celebrated the win. “I just was not going to let Danny beat me so I just ran hard in the final laps without brakes.”

Jared Umbenhauer of Richlandtown, PA waited until the 23rd lap of the 25 lap Sportsman feature race to grab the lead and go on to win with Eastern Rigging sponsored racer.

“I want to thank Grandview for bringing the Sportsman here to race. I love this track,” said Umbenhauer during his interview with victory lane announcer Pete Knappenberger. “I played it safe for much of the race. The track had good bite.”

Both Kline and Umbenhauer had the T.P. Trailers decals on their cars and earned an extra $100 for their wins.

Nine time NASCAR 358 Modified champion Jeff Strunk (Pottstown) grabbed second early in the Modified feature and settled for that as the final finishing position. Third spot went to Doug Manmiller (Shoemakersville), six time champion Craig VonDohren (Boyertown) and early race leader Kyle Weiss (Hamburg).

Danny Snyder (Green Lane), despite a strong effort to take the win, had to settle for second in the Late Model feature with Gilbertsville’s Sean Merkel finishing third. Fourth and fifth finishing positions went to defending Late Model champion Chuck Schutz and Wayne Pfeil Jr.

Craig Whitmoyer (Hamburg) led many of the Sportsman feature laps but fell two laps short of winning and had to settle for second. Brad Brightbill finished third followed by Dave Dissinger and Joe Funk.

Heat winners in the 358 Modified division, each 12 laps, were Kyle Weiss, Doug Manmiller, Jeff Strunk and Duane Howard while the Modified consolation races, each 10 laps, were won by Wade Hendrickson in his first appearance as a Saturday night regular in the Banes Roofing No. 20 and Nate Christman.
 
Qualifying heat winners in the Late Models were Danny Snyder, Ron Kline and Rick Todorow. Each heat was eight laps in distance.
 And the Sportsman qualifiers, each eight laps, the wins were taken by Dave Dissinger and Kyle Borrow.
 
Coming up on Saturday, April 14th is the 50th Anniversary Special feature 50-lap features for the NASCAR 358 Modifieds ($4,000 to win), Late Models ($1500 to win) and Sportsman ($1500 to win). Racing starts at 7 p.m. Admission for adults is $25 for this special event and $5 for youngsters 12 and under.

NASCAR 358 MODIFIED FEATURE - 30 LAPS: 1. Duane Howard 2. Jeff Strunk 3. Doug Manmiller 4. Craig VonDohren 5. Kyle Weiss 6. Terry Meitzler 7. John Willman 8. Ryan Grim 9. Don Norris Jr. 10. Kyle Follweiler 11. Tommy Sheetz Jr. 12. Kevin Albert Jr. 13. Mike Guler 14. Chad Brachman 15. Nate Christman 16. Chris Esposito 17. Wade Hendrickson 18. Brad Missimer 19. Kevin Hirthler 20. Meme DeSantis 21. Gary Hager 22. Jordan Umbenhauer 23. Dan Waisempacher 24. Jon Kellner Jr. 25. Todd Smith 26. Jarred Miller 27. Jon Kellner Sr. 28. Brad Grim
 
NASCAR LATE MODELS, 20 LAPS: 1. Ron Kline 2. Danny Snyder 3. Sean Merkel 4. Chuck Schutz 5. Wayne Pfeil Jr. 6. Rick Todorow  7. Mike Kellner 8. Lou Egrie Sr. 9. Kory Fleming 10. Doug Walton 11. John Giesler 12. Andy Ressler 13. David Ogin 14. Steve Nederostek 15. Drew Weisser 16. Dallas Breidenbach 17. Jason Miller 18. Greg Hoffmaster 19. Buddy Mertz 20. Steve Butler (Did No Start) Mark Minotto and Chris Hitchens
 
NASCAR SPORTSMAN, 25 LAPS: 1. Jared Umbenhauer 2. Craig Whitmoyer 3. Brad Brightbill 4. Dave Dissinger 5. Joe Funk 6. Paul Kline 7. Ryan Beltz 8. Mike Lisowski 9. Kyle Borrow 10. Erik Renninger 11. Tim Apgar 12. Blaine Hemery 13. Nick DeSantis 14. Mike Loney 15. Steve Searock 16. Kevin Beach 17. Matt Hafer 18. Corey Seachrist 19. Brian Hirthler  (Did not start)  Mike Stringer and Chris Jenkins
 
UNOFFICIAL  POINT STANDINGS FOR NASCAR MODIFIEDS
AS OF APRIL 7, 2012
1. Duane Howard 310*
2. Jeff Strunk 300
3. Doug Manmiller 290
4. Craig VonDohren 279
5. Kyle Weiss 270
6. Terry Meitzler 259
7. John Willman 249
8. Ryan Grim 238
9. Don Norris 228
10. Kyle Follweiler 219

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SPITHALER TAKES SPRINT OPENER AT MERCER RACEWAY PARK, GUIDACE, GRIFFIN, ALSO WIN

Mercer, PA (April 6, 2102): Brandon Spitahler is developing a taste for opening night victories at Mercer Raceway Park. For the second year in a row, the young driver from Evans City, PA captured the win in the Luxaire Heating & Cooling Sprint Cars. Frank Guidace topped the Approved Toilet Rentals 358 Modifieds. Joe Kelly won a thriller in the Precise Racing Products Stock Cars, while Guy Griffin scored the win in the ti22 Performance Outlaw Sprint Warriors. Canadian Josh Sliter copped the Modified Lie feature presented by Big Daddy's Speed Center and Rock Concrete. Mike McConnell picked up his first win of the season in the Mini Stock division.

Spithaler explained that his car was really locked down at the beginning of the race. "It was great for about the first two-thirds of the race, then it started to go away as the track slicked off." So, he slid the wing back all the way, and hoped for the best. His concerns were for naught, as he maintained a comfortable margin over Jack Sodeman, Jr., who was making his first start at the track since his horrific accident last season at an All Star Circuit of Champions race in Canada.
Spithaler shot out to the lead fron the pole position and led the entire 25 lap distance in the Luxaire Heating & Cooling Sprint Cars. Sodeman took second on the opening lap, held the position throughout the race, and finished several car lengths behind the winner. Eric Williams took third, one notch ahead of Chris Myers.
Behind the top four, however, the drivers were swapping positions, much to the delight of the crowd. Veteran racers Bob Felmlee and Rod George came to life after restarts. Felmlee took off after the caution on lap ten, and George moved ahead after the caution on lap 18. George was the prime beneficiary, charging his way to fifth at the checkers.

Jimmy Light was sixth, Dan Kuriger seventh and Felmlee eighth. Brandon Matus and Adam Kekich completed the top ten.

Heat winers for the 25 Sprinters were Andrew Albrecht, Andre Leyfield and George. The B Main winner was Racin' Ralphie Spithaler.

Frank "on the gas" Guidace capured the opening race for the Approved Toilet Rentals 358 Modifieds. However, the first thing that he said in his post-race interview was "how did Mikayla do?" He was referring to his daghter, who ran her first race in the highly competitive class. She came home seventh, just one spot ahead of second generation driver Max Smoker, who was also making his debut.

For Guidace, his immaculate new Troyer chassis car was working to perfection. He used the outside line to crack into the top five, but his big move came on the inside after a restart. Guidace lined up third on lap five, and, as is so often the case at the Park, he powered off the fourth corner in the second spot. He pressed the early leader, Matt Reeher, as they entered the first turn. Soon thereafter, Guidace assumed command.

As Guidace moved forward, so did Lonnie Riggs. Riggs was running second when he retired from the event.

Guidace finished out the race on the cushion of the speedway. It was almost his undoing. Clyde Gumpp began to reel him in, as the top seemed to be going away. Gumpp drew close, but he could not pull off the pass for the win.

Finishing third was Rick Hall. Shawn Fleeger took fourth and Dave Cogswell ran fifth. Sixth went to Kevin Green, followed by the pair of rookies, Mikayla Guidace and Max Smoker. Riggs was creditted with ninth and Kyle Fink with tenth.

Heat winners in the 17 car field were Rob Curtis and Frank Guidace.

Guy Griffin sped to the win in the ti22 Performance Outlaw Sprint Warriors. C.J. Jones jumped out to the lead in his first race in this class. His bid for a first race first victory came to an end, though, when he spun coming off turn four. Griffin was able to take evasive measures, as he was closing in on the rookie driver. Dennis Wagner likewise avoided contact by dropping to the inside of the speedway.

Griffin and Wagner would lead the way to the finish. Placing third was Justin Whitesell. Joe McEwen and Jeff Goodman completed the top five. Sixth was Skip Dougherty, followed by Dalton Daniels, Jones, Joe Sienbida and Jacob Lagastee.

Heat races for the dozen Outlaw Sprint Warriors were Doughtery and Wagner.

Next week will be another fun-filled night of Saturday Night Live! racing. The racers will start their quest for track championships, as it will be the first night of points racing in the six classes. Gates will open at 4, with racing at 7.

410 Sprint Cars (25 laps): Brandon Spithaler, Jack Sodeman, Jr., Eric Williams, Chris Myers, Rod George, Jimmy Light, Dan Kuriger, Bob Felmlee, Brent Matus, Adam Kekich, Brandon Matus, Ralph Spithaler, Scott Priester, Jason Dolick, Davey Jones, Brian Steinman, Andrew Albrecht, Russ Sansosti, Brad Knabb, Andre Leyfield.

DNQ: Adam Miller, John McCracken, Jr., Steve Collins, Adam Anderson, Gale Ruth, Sr.

358 Modifieds (20 laps): Frank Guidace, Clyde Gumpp, Rick Hall, Shawn Fleeger, Dave Cogswell, Kevin Green, Mikayla Guidace, Max Smoker, Lonnie Riggs, Kyle Fink, Matt Reeher, Joe Gibson, Rob Curtis, J.R. McGinley, Jimmy Holden (DNS), Ron Eperthener (DNS).

ti22 Performance Outlaw Sprint Warriors (15 laps): Guy Griffin, Dennis Wagner, Justin Whitesell, Joe McEwen, Jeff Goodman, Skip Dougherty, Dalton Daniels, C.J. Jones, Joe Sienbida, Jacob Lagastee, Bob McMillin.

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Napa Auto Parts Brockville and Finish Line Web Design Seeks Help From BOS Fans to Nominate First Inductees to Brockville Speedway Hall of Fame

Craig Revelle

April 3, 2012

In an effort to honor past stars of the Brockville Ontario Speedway over the rich 43 year history of the track, Napa Auto Parts Brockville, Finish Line Web Design and Brockville Ontario Speedway are proud to announce the formation of the NAPA Auto Parts/Finish Line Web Design Brockville Speedway Hall of Fame.  Nominees will be accepted over the Brockville Speedway Facebook Fan Page from now until the start of the 2012 season.  Once the season starts, all nominees will go up on the BOS website for fan voting.  The first round of inductees will be announced at the NAPA Auto Parts night at the track on Saturday, July 28th.

The exact number of nominees that will be inducted has yet to be determined, but there is a phenomenal list of drivers that will make the list.  Arguments can be made for any number of drivers who have called Brockville Ontario Speedway home for some or all of their racing careers.  Classic names such as Denzil Billings, Marcel Lafrance, Bob McCreadie, Ovide Doiron, Dave Heaslip are just some of the past drivers that race fans will come up with, and maybe even current drivers like Danny and Pat O’Brien who have combined for 15 Brockville Speedway championships over the years and Lee Gill, who won four consecutive championships from 2000 to 2003. 

“We are really looking forward to seeing who the fans nominate for the first round of inductees into the Napa Auto Parts/Finish Line Web Design Brockville Speedway Hall of Fame”, says Napa Auto Parts Brockville Manager Dale Pasternak.  “I can think of several past BOS drivers that are deserving of the recognition for their achievements and some current ones too”.

Drivers will not be the only ones eligible to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, as track workers, officials, sponsors, crew members or even race fans could be added to the inaugural list of inductees.

Napa Auto Parts/Finish Line Web Design Brockville Speedway Hall of Fame inductees will be showcased in a designated spot behind the main grandstand in a display for all to see.  Each inductee will also receive a commemorative plaque stating that they are in the Hall of Fame.

To make your nominations for the inaugural induction into the Napa Auto Parts/Finish Line Web Design Brockville Ontario Speedway Hall of Fame please visit our Facebook fan page at www.facebook.com/BrockvilleOntarioSpeedway.  Once the 2012 season begins, the nominees will go up on the Brockville Speedway website for fan voting.

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MIGHTY TACO TO SPONSOR MODIFIED B MAIN; RANSOMVILLE ADDS TO NON SMOKING SECTIONS; EARLY PRACTICE ADDED

Ransomville, NY – Tuesday, April 03, 2012 – The 2012 season is just around the corner for the half mile dirt oval located in the small hamlet of Ransomville,NY. All indications lead one to believe it will be a banner year for the Big R. A very strong pit area coupled with many improvements should result in one of the best seasons in the history of the 55 year old facility.

One of the most notable changes is with the car counts in the Mighty Taco Modifieds. As of today – thirty drivers have registered for weekly competition in the track's head-lining division. The start of a normal 30 lap feature event requires a twenty-four car field. With this in mind, PR and Marketing Director Tana Robinson decided a B Main sponsor was in order.

“I hate to see anyone go home without the opportunity to race in the feature,” commented Robinson. “To help lessen the pain, I am pleased to announce Mighty Taco will be the official sponsor of the Modified B Main and award each non qualifier with a cash bonus. While it isn’t the same as racing in the feature main, at least they won’t be leaving the facility empty handed.”

For the past several years – we as a society have seen the smoking issue swing in a non-smoking direction within sporting venues, bingo halls, restaurants, etc. We feel the time is right to turn in that direction as well and further promote the family atmosphere we at Ransomville are proud of. Starting with the 2012 season – all grandstands from turn one to the right of the start-finish line will become non-smoking. Additionally the family section will also be moved to the start of section BB and include all rows from 2 through the bottom. The sections to the left of the flagman and the Labat party deck will allow smoking. The VIP Bud towers will continue with current procedure – no smoking within the rooms – smoking permitted on the deck.

The current weather pattern has allowed the management and staff of Ransomville Speedway to get a jump start on a few projects, which include the racing surface. New clay has been brought in and applied to the racing surface of both the big track and the gokart surface. Because of the great weather – management has added an early practice session. The practice is slated for Saturday, April 21st from 12:30 to 2:30. Gates in the Pit area will open at 11:30. Pit seasons passes will not be honored as it’s an added event and not on the original schedule.

For questions please call the speedway at 791-3602 or email raceransomville@aol.com.

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Rain Washes Away Big Diamond's 40th Season Opener

5 Qualifying Heats are completed before the rain came
 
The 40th season of racing officially got underway at the Big Diamond Speedway on Sunday but the weather played an April Fool joke and made good on the threat of rain, forcing the cancellation of the first show of the 2012 season after the completion of warm-ups, four Modified heats and one Sportsman qualifier.
 
Fritz Roehrig and his track crew had the race track well prepared for the first day of racing - in spite of less than optimal weather conditions over the weekend. 
 
Thirty-nine Modifieds took the green flag in four qualifying heats and gave the dedicated race fans in attendance just a glimpse of what the 2012 season has in store.  In the first Modified heat, Mike Gular took the win in the new Sherri and Jeremy Goetter owned #3G.  Rick Laubach was the winner of the second Modified qualifier as Nathan Klinger dueled door to door with Craig VonDohren to finish second.  Glenn Strunk held off Meme DeSantis for the win in the third heat race while Doug Manmiller drove the Schaeffer Harley Davidson T-102 to a win in the final qualifier for the Modifieds.
 
Harry Landis was the winner of the first and only Sportsman heat race as the rain came. Kaitie McCardle finished second by Ray Woodhall, Ryan Watt (driving a second Kevin Beach entry) and Billy Moyer put on a show for third.
 
The remainder of the season opener will be run in conjunction with a regular show at a later date to be announced.
 
Race Director, Jake Smulley missed the opening day event as he and his wife, Jasmine welcomed their son, Finn Isaiah into the world late Sunday afternoon.
 
This coming weekend will see two days of racing on the 3/8 mile track at Big Diamond has the 2012 Saturday race schedule begins featuring the midgets of ARDC, Xcel 600 Modifieds, SpeedSTRs, Pro Stocks and Thunders Cars all starting at 7:30 PM. 
 
Then on Sunday, the Big Diamond Speedway will present their Easter Sunday Extravaganza, featuring a 40 lap, $4,000 to win open event for the Modifieds.  RoC-type rules will prevail.  This race will be a qualifier for the Short Track SuperNationals.  The Sportsman and Roadrunners will also be featured as part of this show.  There will be lots of Easter activities for the kids as well including Big Wheel races, coloring contests and an Easter Egg hunt.  Start time on Sunday is 4 PM. 

40th Season Opener Results
 
Modifieds  (10 lap heats - 5 Qualify)
 
Heat 1 - 1. Mike Gular  2. Jeff Strunk  3. Kyle Weiss  4. Rick Yetter  5. Sammy Piazza
Heat 2 - 1. Rick Laubach  2. Nathan Klinger  3. Craig VonDohren  4. Michael Weinert  5. Dan Hineline
Heat 3 - 1. Glenn Strunk  2. Meme DeSantis  3. Mike Mammana   4. Kevin Albert  5. Duane Howard
Heat 4 - 1. Doug Manmiller  2. John Willman  3. Danny Hieber  4. Ray Swinehart  5. Gary Wagner
 
Sportsman  (10 laps)
Heat 1 - 1. Harry Landis  2. Kaitie McCardle  3. Ray Woodhall  4. Ryan Watt  5. Billy Moyer

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50TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON GETS STARTED ON SATURDAY, APRIL 7TH

RAIN HAS MOVED THE PRACTICE SESSION TO APRIL 6
 
BECHTELSVILLE, PA March 31, 2012 . . . One of the busiest seasons in Grandview Speedway history gets the green flag at 7 p.m. Saturday, April 7th. More than 40 events can be found on the official schedule for the one-third-mile, banked clay track celebrating its 50th anniversary season and all of them have been under the promotional reins of the Rogers family.

Before the season officially gets started the practice session that was rained out on Saturday (March 31) has been reset for Friday, April 6th and will run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The three hour practice is open to all divisions of competition. Fans having purchased season tickets will be able to pick their reserved  seats at the practice session and season tickets will be available for sale.

Admission for practice is free to the public in the grandstands and there is a $30 pit fee for race teams.
 
Race teams are reminded that everyone entering the pit areas on Saturday, April 7th will be required to have a NASCAR license and license information and applications will be available at the practice session.
 
When racing officially gets the green on Saturday nine time NASCAR 358 Modified champion Jeff Strunk will kick off defense of his title and start his chase for an unprecedented 10th champion driving the Norm Hansell owned No. 357 Norm’s Save Station 358 Modified. Chuck Schutz will be shooting for his sixth Late Model title and in the all new Sportsman stock car division it is anyone’s guess as to who will be a factor in the battle for that championship.
 
All three racing divisions will be battling for extra prize money courtesy of T.P. Trailers of Limerick, PA. The Modified feature winner will earn an extra $250 making for a total first place payoff of $2750 provided the winning car has T.P.Trailers decals clearly visible on each side. The Late Model winner and Sportsman winner will each get an extra $100 each week provided the T.P. Trailers decals are clearly visible on each side of the race car.
 
In addition there will be a $50 Hard Charger award for the Modifieds sponsored by Bobby Gunther Walsh and his sponsors, a $25 Hard Charger Award for Late Models courtesy of Salvage Transport Co. owned by former Late Model racing standout Jeff Teets and a $25 Hard Charger award for the Sportsman sponsored by
Searock’s Lawn Care of Bath, PA. In addition the Halfway Leader in each feature will receive two giant hoagies each week courtesy of Dan’s Deli in Boyertown, PA. And the Texas Roadhouse in Trexlertown, PA will give two dinners to each feature winner each race night.
 
Admission for adults for the Saturday night season opener is just $15 while youngsters under 12 will be admitted FREE. There is free parking on the grounds of the speedway.

Coming up on Saturday, April 14th is the 50th Anniversary Special with 50-lappers for the NASCAR 358 Modifieds, Late Models and Sportsman racers.

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Big Diamond Open Practice - A Sneak Preview of the 2012 Season

The forecasted rain never arrived and the Big Diamond Speedway opened its gates for the first time in 2012 to welcome nearly 100 racers for its open practice session on Sunday. 

With Big Diamond presenting two nights of racing for the first time in the history of the track, competitors from the many divisions to be featured this season took advantage of the opportunity to prepare for the upcoming season openers.  

Twelve competitors from the headliner Modified division were on hand for the Sunday practice session.  For some, it was the first time on the track since the end of last season.  For others, it was a little bit longer.

Sunday's practice session marked the return of "The Law", Easton, PA driver Rick Yetter who last completed at Big Diamond during the 2010 season.  Yetter picked up his first feature win that season but spent most of 2011 campaigning for the Magisterial District Justice position in his local area.  Yetter won the position in November and is enjoying the challenge of his new position.  Even though Yetter has a newly constructed 2011 Bicknell for this season's competition, a delay in engine parts had Yetter taking laps in his TEO #5 during the practice session.  "I really didn't want the first laps on the new car to be under race conditions," the young racing judge stated.  "But it is what it is.  This practice day is more about me getting some time in the car anyway."  The speedway management has undergone a change during Yetter's absence as owners, Fritz & Krista Roehrig returned to promote the Schuylkill County racing facility last season.  Yetter noted the wider racing surface as he reacquainted himself with the 3/8 mile track.  Yetter hopes to have his new car ready for the season opener.

Doug Manmiller was pleased with his maiden voyage in the Schaeffer Harley Davidson T102.  Manmiller joins the Fitzpatrick brothers, Tim and Shawn, as the driver of the 358 Modified entry.  Manmiller picked up a Big Diamond feature win for Fitzpatrick last season.  Manmiller was the 2010 Big Diamond Track Champion.

Michael Weinert took his laps on Sunday to prepare for the 2012 season - the season that Weinert hopes will produce his first feature win of his young career.  Weinert "graduated" from Micro Sprint competition in 2010, starting out in Sportsman and then moving up to the 358 Modified ranks about midseason.  Weinert has been close to that first checkered flag on several occasions but has not been able to complete the task.  This season, Weinert has some additional incentive to do well in Friday night competition at Big Diamond.  Tom Weinert, Michael's dad and car owner, has dangled the proverbial carrot - a top five finish on Friday will give the young racer the chance to race a second night that weekend.

Brad Arnold joins the 358 Modified ranks as a rookie this season.  Arnold was able to iron out some mechanical issues early in the practice session and spent the remainder of the afternoon gaining some seat time in his beautiful #27.  Arnold is up to the challenge of the Big Diamond modified division after moving up from the micro sprint ranks.

Colt Harris has had a rough start to the 2012 season.  Harris made hard contact with another car during warm-ups at the recent Selinsgrove Icebreaker weekend.  The impact broke the W-link on Harris Crown 7.  The young Big Diamond competitor was forced to revert to his car from the 2006 season because of the frame damage sustained at Selinsgrove.  "We're pretty much week to week this season." Harris explained between hot lap sessions at Big Diamond.  The Crown 7 driver is hoping to pick up some additional sponsorship for the season.  "This week is going better than last week - that's for sure," Harris exclaimed.  "I guess it's not all bad news though - I like this old car better anyway.  This car has always handled better." 

Reading, PA driver, Andy Burkhart has his Troyer #87 prepared for the 2012 season and is hoping that he is able to produce some better results this season.  Burkhart had several strong appearances during the 2011 season but joked that there needs to be less driver error this season.  Burkhart's #87 is powered by a Lombardo engine.  Burkhart explained that is problem isn't a lack of power but being able to bet the power to the track. 

The Station House 358 Modifieds, the U.S.S. Achey Sportsman and Wooden Keg Roadrunner divisions will compete on Sunday, April 1st to officially mark the start of the 2012 season at Big Diamond.  (And that's no April Fool!)  Race time is 4 pm as the 40th season of racing gets underway at the Big Diamond Speedway.

With ten races scheduled at Big Diamond this season, there was a strong showing of ARDC Midgets on hand for the open practice day.  Fifteen ARDC drivers participated in the preseason warm-up session.  Several teams had multiple entries on hand.  Nick Wean, Ryan Smith, Brett Arndt, Steven Drevicki and Tim Buckwalter were top ten championship contenders in 2011 and were preparing for ARDC's season opener at Big Diamond on Saturday, April 7th. 

410 & 305 Sprint Cars, Excel 600 Modifies, Micro Sprints, Pro Stocks, Thunder Cars, Late Models and Vintage Racers participated in several warm-up sessions throughout the afternoon.

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Brockville Ontario Speedway to hold first ever season preview

BROCKVILLE-The 2012 racing season is just over a month away in Eastern Ontario. Brockville Ontario Speedway knows that the warm weather has turned fans and competitors thoughts to racing once again. To get everyone charged up for May 12th, the Beast of the East will hold its first ever season preview next month.

Everyone is invited to the 1st BOS Fan Fare, to be held on Saturday April 14th at Home Hardware Building Centre, 584 Stewart Blvd in Brockville. The free event will run from 10am to 2pm and will feature the 2011 Modified and Sportsmen BOS 5 Stars and their new cars for the 2012 season. Many drivers and teams have changed paint schemes for the new campaign, this event offers fans the chance to get a sneak peak before the machines start to roar into competition along with the opportunity to chat and get an autograph from their favourite driver.

Fan Fare will also be accepting donations for Big Brothers and Big Sisters. There will be a BBQ at noon and the band “Rock Bottom” will be rocking the parking lot. Season’s passes and handy 2012 season pocket schedules will be available and the media is also invited. Don’t miss all the “off track” action at the first Brockville Ontario Speedway event of the year at the Home Hardware Building Centre, 584 Stewart Blvd APRIL 14th 10am-2pm !!

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2012 Schedule Released emphasis placed back on Solid Saturday night shows
 
BROCKVILLE-Brockville Ontario Speedway is returning to its roots in 2012.  The Speedway has unveiled it's 2012 racing schedule with more emphasis on local drivers, teams, sponsors and race fans this season.  The four regular classes of 358 Modifieds, Sportsman, Street Stocks and Rookies will be weekly staples all season, with almost bi-weekly appearances by the ever growing field of Vintage cars.  All classes will have some special events including a double lap, double point night on August 4th.
 
The 2012 campaign will kick off on Saturday, May 12th, with weekly Saturday night shows until September 1st and then concludes with the annual Fall Nationals October 12th to 14th.  The nationals will be a three day affair once again with the addition of the Go Nuclear Late Models and the Mod lites to the weekend along with the DIRTcar championship chase finales for the 358 Modifieds, Sportsman and Pro Stocks, and the always popular events featuring the Big Blocks and Sprint Cars and Street Stocks.
 
The Sprint Cars will pay two other visits to the Beast of the East in 2012 on July 14th and August 25th.  The Mod lite tour also has a couple of additional visits planned in 2012 to go with the October date.  The leadup to 2012 begins with the annual banquet on Saturday, April 7th followed by a special meet the drivers season preview the following week.  
 
Brockville Ontario Speedway 2012 Race Schedule
Date Event ..................................................................................Price
Sat May 5 Open Practice 1pm to 4pm ...................................................Free
Sat May 12 Bob Fm/Ken Seymour Memorial Race season opener all
divisions plus McNamee Concrete with the Vintage Cars ....$12
Sat May 19 Superior Cellular & Sound Full Program ,
40 lap Sportsman ...................................................................$12
Sat May 26 McNamee Concrete with the Vintage Cars, Full Show
plus 20 Lap Enduro ...............................................................$12
Sat June 2 Surgenor Truck Centre Full Program plus
McNamee Concrete with the Vintage Cars ...........................$12
Sat June 9 Tusa Mod Lites plus Full show .............................................$12
Sat June 16 Full Program plus Spectator Bag Race ..................................$12
Sat June 23 McNamee Concrete with the Vintage Cars plus Full Show $12
Sat June 30 Polite Sand & Gravel Full Show plus Sportsman Dash ......$12
Sat July 7 Kemptville Truck Centre Full Program plus McNamee
Concrete with the Vintage Cars ............................................$12
Sat July 14 Tackaberry Construction present Patriot Sprint Cars
plus Full Show, and Autograph Night ...................................$25
Sat July 21 Jim’s Performance present Full Show plus
McNamee Concrete with the Vintage Stock Cars .................$12
Sat July 28 Napa Auto Parts present Tusa Mod Lites, Full Show, and
Kids Tire Race .......................................................................$12
Sat Aug 4 Bob Fm/Coca Cola Deal Breaker double points/purse/laps
all divisions & Vintage Stock Cars ........................................$24
Sat Aug 11 BOS Kart Club presentation plus Full Show .......................$12
Sat Aug 18 730 Truck Stop Full Show plus McNamee Concrete
with the Vintage Stock Cars ..................................................$12
Sat Aug 25 Bob Fm presents Patriot Sprint Cars plus Full Show ...........$25
Sat Sept 1 United Way/Recorder & Times present Final Points all
divisions & McNamee Concrete with the Vintage Cars ......$12
Sun Sept 16 Kanes Towing Monster Enduro, Ladies 4/6 cyl, Mens 4/6
and V8 2pm start ...................................................................$10
Dirtcar Northeast Fall Nationals sponsored by Bob Fm,
Recorder & Times & CKWS TV
Fri Oct 12 Go Nuclear Late Model Series, Super Dirt Pro Stock Final
Championship ........................................................................$15
Sat Oct 13 Open 360 Sprint Car Challenge 25 Laps Tusa Mod Lites,
Super Dirt 358 series Championship 1pm start .....................$35
Sun Oct 14 Dirt Big Block series 100 laps, Super Dirt Sportsman ...............
Championship plus Street Stock Invitational 1pm start ........$30

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JOE WILLCOX PERFORMANCE TO HOST THE SEASON LID LIFTER AT THE WOODHULL RACEWAY

(Woodhull, NY)  For the fifth consecutive year, Joe Willcox Performance of Westfield, Pa. will sponsor the Woodhull Raceway season opener.

The April 14, 2012 event will mark the start of the 48th consecutive year of racing at the historic Steuben County oval and with some twenty-six race dates on the docket it promises to be one of the most aggressive schedules in recent memory. 

On the card for the April 14 opener will be the S&W Awards and Photos Crate Sportsman, the NAPA 360 Late Models, the Joe Willcox Performance Street Stocks along with the Signs Plus of Kanona Mini Stocks and the LaBarron Brothers Repair and Parts Front Wheel Drive Divisions.  The Insinger Performance 358 Modifieds will not see action at Woodhull until April 28.

The regions premier automatic transmission specialist, Joe Willcox Performance has become a household name not only at Woodhull, but numerous other area raceways and touring groups as well.  Joe and Jean Willcox are huge supporters of the Woodhull Raceway in other areas including track signage and the weekly sponsor of the Junior Fan of the Week Award and their patronage of racing does not stop there as their name appears on numerous machines that compete at Woodhull on a regular basis.

In addition it was announced this past winter that Joe Willcox Performance would headline sponsor the Street Stock Division at the track with an aggressive campaign to pump added money into the class with numerous Dash for Cash races spread throughout the summer as well as a season ending high dollar event.

Gates for the April 14 event open at 4:30 with the first green flag of the night waving at 6:30 pm.

Season Passes along with Reserved Seating will continue to be available at the track on a weekly basis or can be handled thru the track web site at www.woodhullraceway.com.

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WOODHULL RACEWAY ARNOT MALL CAR SHOW ANOTHER SUCCESS

For the third consecutive year, Swarthout Recycling of Beaver Dams partners with Woodhull at the pre-season event.

(Woodhull, NY)  A tough economy and gasoline approaching an all time high did not stop a huge turnout of race fans and well wishers from supporting the Annual Woodhull Raceway Arnot Mall Car Show sponsored by Swarthout Recycling. 

A healthy turnout of cars that will compete at the Woodhull Raceway during the 2012 season graced the hall ways of the mammoth Big Flats facility and race teams took the opportunity to showcase their immaculate looking equipment prior to the two upcoming practice dates of Friday and Saturday, April 6 and 7.

Several thousand of the 2012 Woodhull Raceway schedule brochures were handed out and representatives of the track were on hand all weekend to greet the fans and answer questions.  As a show of appreciation to each participant the track issued beautiful picture plaques which were professionally assembled by S&W Awards and Photos of Corning.

Track owner, Ted White and his companion, Brandi McCutcheon would like to thank everyone for their attendance at this years event particularly the faithful competitors of Woodhull for representing the facility with great professionalism.  Representatives of the Arnot Mall were equally pleased with the numbers and commented as to the smoothness of the entry and exit procedures.

Every car in attendance was an eye grabber and plans are already underway for the 2013 event which will commerate the 49th season of action at the popular Steuben County oval.

For those that were not able to attend Season Passes and Reserved Seating will be available at both practice dates as well as the season opener on April 14 presented by Joe Willcox Performance.

For more information log onto www.woodhullraceway.com. 

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MORE PERKS ANNOUNCED FOR GRANDVIEW RACERS, PRACTICE DAY QUICKLY APPROACHING
 
BECHTELSVILLE, PA March 16, 2012 . . . Every dollar is needed and put to good use. Just ask any racer on the weekly short track racing circuit.

With that in mind NASCAR sanctioned Grandview Speedway’s management has announced a couple of more perks that will be putting cash in the pockets of their Saturday night stock car racers this season.

WAEB-790AM radio personality Bobby Gunther Walsh, a long time NASCAR 358 Modified racer at Grandview, has announced that he is posting $50 cash each week for the Hard Charger in the NASCAR 358 Modified division. The award is posted on behalf of his more than 30 sponsors that are involved with his race team.

The Gunther Hard Charger award will go to the driver that gains the most positions in the Saturday night NASCAR 358 Modified feature race from official starting position to official finishing position.

Former Late Model racing standout Jeff Teets and his Salvage Transport Co. will post a $25 cash Hard Charger award for competitors in the Saturday night Late Model feature. Again the cash will go to the driver able to gain the most positions from official starting position to official finishing position.

Already in place is the T.P. Trailers awards that give $250 to the NASCAR 358 Modified feature winner on Saturday nights, $100 to the Late Model feature winner and $100 to the Sportsman feature winner. The winner’s race car must have 6 inch by 10 inch T.P. Trailer decals in clearly visible locations on both sides of their race cars to earn the cash awards.

And there is the Dinners for Winners program that gives the winning driver in each Saturday night division of racing dinner for two at the Texas Roadhouse Restaurant in Trexlertown, PA.

All of these awards will in place when the 50th annual anniversary season kicks off officially on Saturday, April 7, 7 p.m. with a tripleheader show featuring the NASCAR 358 Modifieds, Late Models and Sportsman racers. Adult admission will be just $15 while youngsters 12 and under will be admitted FREE.

The 50th anniversary celebration really gets going when 50-lap features will be presented for the 358 Modifieds, Late Models and Sportsman racers on Saturday, April 14th at 7 p.m.

The annual Free-To-The-Public practice session is set for Saturday, March 31st, 12 noon and will feature all divisions of racing as they test and tune to be ready for the start of the new season. At 6 p.m., after the practice sessions have been completed there will be NEETS Enduro racing along with Blast From The Past Vintage
Car competition. NEETS will present their Spring Fling including a 150-lap Small Car Enduro, 150 laps for the Big Cars and a 25-lap Ladies race.  Admission for those events will be $10.

Season tickets are still available for the 50th anniversary season for just $325. The season ticket includes a reserved seat to all Saturday night racing events during the 50th anniversary season.

For information on racing at Grandview Speedway telephone 610.754.7688 or check in at www.grandviewspeedway.com where a complete schedule can be found along with a rule book and late breaking news.
 
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TWO PRACTICE DATES SET FOR THE WOODHULL RACEWAY

Track will be open for test and tune on Friday and Saturday, April 6 and 7 from 6:00 till 9:00 pm each night.

(Woodhull, NY)  Racers that plan on competing at the Woodhull Raceway in 2012 are encouraged to attend a pair of test and tune nights at the track on Friday and Saturday, April 6 and 7, 2012.  On each date the facility will be open from 6:00 until approximately 9:00 pm allowing drivers and teams the opportunity to shake down their equipment for the upcoming season.

With the relatively mild winter weather and extremely dry conditions throughout the past several weeks the management of the Woodhull Raceway has been hard at work getting the track and buildings ready to go for the two practice dates along with the season opener set for Saturday, April 14.

According to track owner, Ted White, “The weather is a lot different than a year ago when we had an extremely hard winter and a very wet spring with saturated grounds throughout all of March, April and May making it hard just to get race car haulers and passenger vehicles in and out of the facility.  We’re keeping our fingers crossed that the weather pattern continues with warm and dry conditions which will make for a fantastic racing surface.”

On both April 6 and 7 pit gates will open at  4:30 pm with a small fee charged for those entering the pit area to cover the necessary insurances.

Grandstand admission is absolutely free on both dates and Season Passes along with Yearly Reserved Seating will be on sale.  To save time, fans are encouraged to secure their season passes and reserved seats prior to the season lid lifter the following Saturday.

For more information including the 2012 Schedule of Events log onto www.woodhullraceway.com.

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RACE CAR SHOW AT SEAWAY MALL IS ONE OF THE LAST BREAKS FOR MERRITTVILLE SPEEDWAY RACE TEAMS

For Immediate Release from Jim Irvine Merrittville Speedway Public Relations

Thorold, Ontario (Saturday March 10, 2012) – If you are looking for something to do with the family this coming week during March Break – visit Merrittville Speedway’s Race Car Show at the Seaway Mall in Welland. Drivers from each of the 5 Lucas Oil Weekly Racing Series Divisions will have their cars on display from March 12th to March 17th.

The Seaway Mall is the way to big brands and better prices and the way to a fuller shopping cart when Target opens in 2013.

From Monday to Friday, the Seaway Mall will be the way to March Break Madness with plenty of activities scheduled in the Sears Court Area.

Disney and Cars Bouncers will split the week and kids can visit with reptiles from the Reptile Kingdom at times Wednesday and Friday with a variety of crafts planned to keep the kids entertained. Help a Child Smile and Star Wars Characters will invade Seaway Mall Saturday in preparation for their Fun Expo Saturday May 26th.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Mall providing race fans from across the Region an opportunity to meet some of their favorite drivers and to get a first-hand look at their race cars,” said Erica Bicknell-Jones, GM of Merrittville Speedway.   “with the season a little more than a month away - what better way to treat our fans than with an up-close race experience in an intimate setting – reaching out to shoppers is a valuable tool in attracting new fans with all the March Break activities going on,” she added.

Race Fans can look forward to seeing the brand new cars of 2012 Rookie Drivers Dillan Sliter and Joey Mastroianni who are preparing for their first seasons in the J&S Heating and Air Conditioning Modified Lite and Original Pizza Logs Sportsman Divisions respectively.

Sliter will be joined by his uncle Ray Sliter Jr., and his cousin – defending 2 time Champion Josh Sliter and former champ Paul Klager – all representing the class of cars that are powered by motorcycle engines.

Joining Mastroianni is his team-mate Adam Leslie, BJ Willard, Justin Sharp and Cody McPherson – just some of the Sportsman field that is expected to draw huge fields each week during the season.

The Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder Division will see the cars of Rob Overholt, Brandon Iudicianni, Jason Coutu and Kyle Pelrine on display in addition to the full-fendered Hoosier Stocks of Chris Crawford, Kevin Knapp, Jim Lampman and Cory Turner.

Rounding out the line-up of Saturday Night Lucas Oil Weekly Racing Series Stars are the Bobcat of Hamilton 358 Modifieds of Bill Bleich, Chris Steele and defending and 21 time Champion Pete Bicknell.

Merrittville Speedway’s Tuesday Night Lucas Oil Weekly Karting Series Drivers joining the week long display include Alex Riley, Trent Curtis and Austyn Werstroh.

While all the engines of all the Race Cars on display will be silent … they will roar to life when the Seaway Mall opens the first Holiday Doubleheader of the season Saturday May 19th at Merrittville with the Rankin Cancer Run Awareness Night featuring the first round of the Stars North Tour for the Modified Lites.

The Welland shopping destination offers a variety of unique shopping and dining experiences and is home to over 120 stores and services … and for March Break – that includes Merrittville Speedway.

Mall Hours are from 10 AM to 9 PM Monday to Friday … 9:30 to 5:30 Saturday and from 12 Noon to 5 PM on Sunday.

The Seaway Mall is located at 800 Niagara Street in Welland Ontario.

Shoppers can also visit the Seaway Mall on line at www.seawaymall.com or on your I Phone by downloading the free Seaway Mall App from the iTunes store.

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Chiller Thriller to Open Mercer Raceway Park on March 31

Mercer, PA (March 9, 2012): In a few short weeks, the green flag will waive again over Mercer Raceway Park. Track manager Frank Benic has assembled another diverse and entertaining schedule that will delight fans of all ages.
 
The action will start on Saturday, March 31, with the annual Chiller Thriller. Once again, the powerful UFo Late Models will be the headline attraction. This will be the only appearance of the Super Late Models at the tricky oval. Joining them will be the popular open-wheeled modifieds of the UEMS Series. Stock Cars and Mini Stocks will round out the card for the opening event.
 
Mercer's loyal Sprint Car fans will have several special events to choose from. The All Stars Circuit of Champions will visit twice. The first sanctioned event will be on May 12. The All Stars will be back on August 25. The Auto Racers for Kids charity race will feature the Luxaire Heating & Cooling Sprint Cars on June 16. After several years absence, the 360 Sprints of the Patriot Sprint Group will be on tap over Labor Day weekend. And, if you like your Sprints without wings, be sure to mark May 19 on your calendars. The BOSS series from across the border in the Buckeye state will thrill everybody with their back 'em in style.
 
The nation's oldest sanctioning body, the American Racing Drivers Club, will bring their little sticks of dynamite to the Park on June 2 and July 21. The Midget races have become a fan favorite!
The FASTRAK Late Model Series will present a Northeast Regional Series race on July 7.
 
Another touring series, the BRP/Hoosier Tire Modified Tour, will bring the ground-pounding Big Blocks into town on August 18. Will this be the year for a regular in the Approved Toilet Rentals 358 Modifieds to defend the home turf?
 
The Little Guy Nationals will close out the oval track action on September 21 and 22.
The pulling pit will be put to the test twice during the 2012 season. The All American Tractor Pull will be held on May 27 and September 15.
 
Regular weekly racing will consist of the Luxaire Heating & Cooling Sprint Cars, the ti22 Performance Outlaw Sprint Warriors, the Approved Toilet Rentals 358 Modifieds, the Precise Racing Products Stock Cars and the Big Daddy's Speed Center Modified Lites. The Mini Stocks will also be part of the normal racing program. Anyone seeking an opportunity to sponsor that division should contact track manager Frank Benic for details.

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50TH ANNUAL ANNIVERSARY SEASON AT GRANDVIEW SET TO START DINNERS FOR WINNERS PROGRAM ANNOUNCED
 
BECHTELSVILLE, PA March 9, 2012 . . . With the 50th anniversary season of stock car racing set to start in just a few short weeks race teams are working overtime to make sure their racing equipment is in peak condition and a lot of teams will be bringing brand new equipment out for opening night.

Racers will have the opportunity to “test and tune” that equipment on Saturday, March 31st at noon when the annual free-to-the-public practice session is presented at the NASCAR sanctioned Grandview Speedway. The practice session will be followed, at 6 p.m., by a NEETS Enduro show along with racing for the Blast from the Past Vintage Stock Cars.

A huge number of race cars are expected to be on hand as the practice is open to all divisions of competition including the NASCAR 358 Modifieds, Late Models, Sportsman, 600 Modifieds, Micro Sprints, Slingshots, and more.

Kicking off the official start of the 50th anniversary season will be a tripleheader show on Saturday, April 7th, 7 p.m. featuring the NASCAR 358 Modifieds, Late Models and new to Grandview Saturday night action this season, the Sportsman stock cars. This will be the triple show action that will be featured on Saturdays throughout the season.

Racers are reminded that T.P. Trailers of Limerick is posting $250 for the winner of the NASCAR 358 Modified features and $100 for the winner of each Saturday night Late Model and Sportsman feature. In order to collect the bonus bucks the winner’s race car must be carrying T.P. Trailers decals on both sides in clearly visible locations. Cars will be checked in victory lane.

The first extra distance events of the season will take place on Saturday, April 14th at 7 p.m. with the running of the 50th Anniversary Special Night that will include 50 lap features for the NASCAR 358 Modifieds, Late Models and Sportsman.

New this year is the DINNERS FOR WINNERS promotion from Texas Roadhouse restaurant located on Route 222 in Trexlertown, PA. Each feature winner in Saturday night stock car racing events will receive dinner for two. The Dinners for Winners promotion is good only at the popular Trexlertown location.
In addition Texas Roadhouse will have a kid’s coins promotion going on at Grandview Speedway.

Dinners will also go to the winners of feature events in the Sunday afternoon Small Car Series that kicks off on Sunday, April 22nd at 2 p.m. and features 270 and 600 Micros, Slingshots and 600 Modifieds.

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ENTRY LIST CONTINUES TO GROW FOR ANNUAL WOODHULL RACEWAY ARNOT MALL CAR SHOW

The cut off date for entries is Thursday, March 15, 2012

Woodhull, NY)   Entries continue at a steady pace for the 2012 Woodhull Raceway Arnot Mall Car Show presented by Swarthout Recycling of Beaver Dams, NY.  This year’s event which is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, March 24 and 25 will get under way on Friday evening with a mandatory meeting of all participants at the Arnot Mall’s Center Court area at 8:30 pm. At that time each entered driver will receive their marching orders for entry into the Big Flats, NY facility along with a check list of what is expected of each participant.  It is anticipated that the doors will swing open at approximately 9:45 pm when the cars will roll into the Arnot Mall with exit on Sunday evening at 6:00 pm.

Many of the requirements of each race team are currently posted on the track web site along with a list of registered machines.

It is the obligation of each registered car to have one team member at the mandatory 8:30 pm, March 23 meeting and as always if a car that is currently registered CAN NOT attend the event it is that teams obligation to call or e-mail and cancel prior to the event.  By failing to do so will jeopardize that cars entry into future car show events.

Racers are encouraged to continue to register by contacting event organizer, Kenny Shupp Jr. thru the track web site at www.woodhullraceway.com or by phone at 607-329-6305.

It has been documented in earlier press releases that space for this years Woodhull Raceway Arnot Mall Car Show presented by Swarthout Recycling is limited and the track may have to exercise the option of going to a first come first serve basis if need be.

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BIG DIAMOND PREPARES FOR 2012 SEASON

Season Kickoff at Fair Lane Mall Show
 
With just five weeks remaining before the roar of engines returns to the Big Diamond Speedway, there is a lot of activity surrounding the Schuylkill County racing facility.
 
Race cars will enter the Fair Lane Village Mall at the close of business on Sunday, March 4th for the start of the Big Diamond 2012 Race Car Show.  The cars will be on display throughout the week with driver interviews taking place on Friday night, March 9th,  highlighting the event.  Space is still available - contact Tim Long at (484) 256-5149 for mall show information.
 
Big Diamond will also be participating in the 27th Annual Racing Legends Reunion and Car Show at the Fairgrounds Square Mall in Reading, PA from February 19-25.  2012 Season Schedules and pit licenses will be available at both shows.
 
Then a few short weeks later, Big Diamond opens its gates for a Test & Tune on Sunday, March 25th to be followed by the 40th season opener just one week later and it's no April Fool on Sunday, April 1st.  Modifieds, Sportsman and Roadrunners will all compete in the 2012 season opener.
 
April 7th marks the Saturday night opener at Big Diamond with five divisions competing.  The ARDC Midgets will open their 2012 season and share the racing card with the Excel 600cc Modifieds, Speedsters, Pro Stocks and Thunder Cars for the first Saturday night race card of the 2012 season.
 
A 4pm start time will mark the return of racing action to Big Diamond on Easter Sunday.  In addition to a $4,000 to win, 40 lap feature for the Modifieds, there will also be a full show of Sportsman and Roadrunners.  The Modifieds will follow RoC type rules but Delaware engines will be permitted on this race day.  Racing in all three divisions will be non-point events.  This Easter Sunday event will have something for the whole family as Big Wheel Races, an Easter Egg Hunt and coloring contests will be held to help to celebrate the special day.
 
April will be a busy month as the first of the AMSOIL Sportsman Series races is scheduled for Sunday, April 14th with a $1,000 payday to the winner of the 20 lap Sportsman Feature event.  A regular show of Modifieds, Roadrunners and the first appearance of the open competition sprint cars will all be part of the Sunday show on April 14th.
 
Big Diamond has something to offer every racing fan this season.  If Big Diamond doesn't have it, then it can't be racing!
 
June 1st will mark the First Annual Appalachian Late Model Speed Week at the Big Diamond Speedway - a doubleheader program with the Modifieds.  Back by popular demand will be the USAC Sprints on Friday, June 8th.
 
And, of course, the ever popular Big Diamond special events - the Georgie Stevenson Memorial Race sponsored by Ken's Tire on Friday, July 6th and the end of the season Coalcracker events for the Modifieds, Sportsman and Roadrunners.
 
With the regular Modified features paying $2,750 to win as well as the other purse increases that have been announced, fans are guaranteed an action packed season of racing at the Big Diamond Speedway.
 
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