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SHOWERS STOP RACING PROGRAM AT BRIDGEPORT SPEEDWAY
Bridgeport, NJ (May 19, 2013) – On Bike and Scout Night at Bridgeport Speedway, showers stopped the racing program on Saturday, May 18. Before the wet weather, the Rookie race was completed. For the second time this season, Kris Lilick was victorious in the D.A.’S Auto Body and Repair Rookie Series feature. Lilick led from start to finish. A late closing Ian Humphreys finished in second. Tyler Hulmes, Jesse Bonaduce, and Jeff Bubori were next in line. The showers began prior to the second qualifying event for the TSRS Sprint Cars, who were making their first appearance of the year at Bridgeport Speedway. Thirty-four TSRS Sprint Cars had entered the pits with twenty-nine Big Block Modifieds registered for competition and thirty-four Crate/Sportsman cars on hand. Paid wrist bands from the Saturday, May 18 program can be redeemed on May 26 and throughout the entire month of June except for the Night of Wings show on Wednesday, June 12 as this is a separate promotion.
Racing on the 5/8th mile oval returns on Sunday, May 26 as Colonial Pipeline, the owner of a network of pipelines connecting Gulf Coast refineries with markets across the South and Eastern United States, presents the Wingate Classic on 811 Awareness Night. This 40-lap Big Block Modified Poker Series race honors George Wingate, the former Bridgeport Speedway promoter who lost a battle with cancer in May 2003. The winner of this second of five Poker Series events will go home with $4000 with $300 to take the green. The second races in the Crate/Sportsman Poker Series and Outlaw Stock Car Shoot-Out Series will round out the special Memorial Day weekend program. On Sunday May 26, the pit gates unlock at 4:00 p.m. and fans can begin to enter the grandstands at 5:00 p.m. Racing is slated to begin at 7:00 p.m. Adult (16 and older) admission will be $25 with students (10-15) being admitted for $12. Kids 9 and under are free. Admittance to the pits is $35.
BRIDGEPORT SPEEDWAY RESULTS – SATURDAY, MAY 18, 2013
ROOKIE SERIES FEATURE - 8 LAPS 1. KRIS LILICK 2. Ian Humphreys 3. Tyler Hulmes 4. Jesse Bonaduce 5. Jeff Bubori
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BRIAN MALCOLM A FIRST TIME PENN CAN SPEEDWAY WINNER ON FRIDAY
By RYAN LEPRE
Brian Malcolm added his name to the Penn Can Speedway win list on Friday evening. Malcolm of Lake Ariel, PA steered into the lead on an early race restart then ran away from the field leading by a straightaway. A late race caution saw Bob Hamm of Windsor, NY challenge Malcolm’s Sharkey’s Fuels No.119 but Malcolm held strong to take the win over Hamm, Nick Rochinski of Dickson City, PA; Mike Nagel of Susquehanna, PA and Bob Trapper of Scranton, PA. Alex Stanton won the 602 Sportsman by about a foot over Butch Green while Shane Wolf Jr. was the Street Stock winner. Johnathan Pepe won the Xcel 600 Modified Tour Race while Kenny Underwood (Four Cylinders) and George Brown(Factory Stocks) won both the held-over and regular events in their classes.
Bobby Trapper Jr. and Bob Hamm led the field to the green flag for the 30 lap Modified feature. Hamm led at the start over Trapper and Adam MacGeorge. The caution flew multiple times in the early going with a four car tangle then a single car spin and then on lap three third place running Trapper Jr. spun out in front of the entire field. Mike Colsten who was making his season debut on Friday suffered heavy damage also collected were Mike Dougherty, John Siedlecky and MacGeorge. When racing resumed Hamm now had Malcolm to his outside the pair raced side by side until Hamm pushed up a bit and Malcolm powered ahead. Malcolm now led as Bob Hamm was challenged by tenth starter Bob Trapper. Trapper took second on lap six as Hamm stayed close while Nick Rochinski ran fourth and Mike Nagel held down fifth. With a dozen laps complete Malcolm had a sizeable lead over the battle for second as Hamm drove back by Trapper for the spot just as Malcolm entered lapped traffic at the halfway point. Malcolm’s lead was erased on lap 20 when Alan Kellogg rolled to a stop. Malcolm now had his hands full with Hamm meanwhile Rochinski moved into third ahead of Trapper and Nagel. The caution flew on lap 21 as a few top ten cars go out of shape resulting in Joey Colsten, Mike Marold and Grant Hilfiger tangling. Malcolm led Hamm and Rochinski meanwhile the battle from fourth through eighth was entertaining between Trapper, Nagel, Dan Pompey, Kevin Hartnett and last week’s winner Steve Babicek. The final caution flew as Christine Martin spun again. Brian Malcolm held on over the final three laps to take the win aboard the Tom Corr and Chris Clark owned No.119 Morrison powered Bicknell Bob Hamm in his Hamm Trucking No.USA1 Bicknell settled for second. Nick Rochinski in the Rochinski Enterprises No.20R Teo placed third while Mike Nagel was fourth for the second week in a row and Bob Trapper completed the top five. The rest of the top ten was 12th starter Hartnett, Pompey, 20th starter Babicek, Mike Nagel Jr. and Ken Titus.
“Finally we got one here at Penn Can.” said an excited Malcolm “I was hoping those lapped cars would give me a bit of a cushion but that didn’t happen. On those last restarts all I was thinking was just go and don’t look back. Our team unfortunately lost a lot of family members over the winter and I’d like to dedicate this win to them.”
Wes Campbell led the first half of the 602 Sportsman event until defending champ Alex Stanton moved to the point at the halfway mark. Campbell stuck close to Stanton for several laps as Butch Green was closing fast. Green moved to second with just a few laps to go to set up an exciting final lap. Green slung his ride to the inside of Stanton in turn one and two and again in three and four. As they drag raced to the line side by side Stanton took the win by no more than a couple feet over Green. Campbell was third ahead of Kyle Rohner and Paul Rooney.
Next Friday night racing will feature the Modifieds,NEP Mini Series for the 602 Sportsman, Street Stocks, Xcel 600 Modifieds Tour Race, Factory Stocks and Four Cylinders. Gates will open at 5:15 with racing at 7:30. Admission is $12 for Adults with Seniors and Students $10 and Children 11 and under Free. Anyone with questions can contact the speedway at 570-585-9928 or check us out on the web at www.penncan.com.
Modified Feature: Brian Malcolm, Bob Hamm, Nick Rochinski, Mike Nagel, Bob Trapper, Kevin Hartnett, Dan Pompey, Steve Babicek, Mike Nagel Jr, Ken Titus, Adam MacGeorge, Joey Colsten, Grant Hilfiger, Bobby Yeager, Alan Kellogg, Christine Martin, Mike Marold Jr, Jeff Crambo, George Kostelansky, Al Rudalavage, Bobby Trapper, John Siedlecky, Mike Colsten, Mike Dougherty
602 Sportsman Feature: Alex Stanton, Butch Green, Wes Campbell, Kyle Rohner, Paul Rooney, Dusty Barton, Grant Hilfiger, Randy Gates, Bob Janesky, Jamie Cortazar, Nick Branning
Street Stock Feature: Shane Wolf Jr, Earl Zimmer, Ryan Stone, Jon Carpenter, Steve Deinhardt, Ricky Davis Sr, Dan Wood, Joe Cabets, Matt Spencer, Chuck Murray, Fred Christ, Randy Fox, Herb Penny
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Friday, May 17, 2013 – Albany Saratoga Speedway
Modified Feature Results (35 Laps) - 1) RONNIE JOHNSON, 2) Stewart Friesen, 3) Matt Delorenzo, 4) Mark Kislowski, 5) Marc Johnson, 6) Peter Britten, 7) Brian Gleason, 8) Rich Scagliotta, 9) Brett Hearn, 10) Ken Tremont Jr, 11) Jeremy Wilder, 12) Jeff Trombley, 13) Neil Stratton, 14) Bodie Bellinger, 15) Keith Flach, 16) Don Ronca, 17) Jimmy Cottrell, 18) Pep Corradi, 19) Rich Ronca, 20) C.G. Morey, 21) Kyle Sheldon, 22) Justin Boehler, 23) Justin Barber, 24) Jamike Sowle, 25) Ray Hoard, 26) Tony Ballestero, 27) Nick Hotaling, 28) Matt Depew, 29) John Proctor, DNS) Floyd Billington
Sportsman Feature Results (25 Laps) - 1) DEREK MCGREW, 2) Brett Wright, 3) Adam McAuliffe, 4) Jeremy Pitts, 5) Cody Bleau, 6) Robert Budlak, 7) Mike Tholin, 8) Frank Hoard III, 9) Leo Sousie, 10) Jon Miller, 11) Jack Speshock, 12) Dave Baranowski Jr, 13) Jack Swinton, 14) Mike Ostrander, 15) Scott Duell, 16) Dan Santabarbara, 17) Paul Dunham, 18) Joe Orlando, 19) Luke Klob, 20) Mike Jeske, 21) Nick Lussier, 22) Jake Scarborough, 23) Dan Boni, 24) Elliott Lussier, 25) Seth Roberts, 26) Stan Lemiesz, 27) Fred Proctor, 28) Jack Gentile, 29) Andy Durie, 30) Mike Burdo
Novice Sportsman Feature Results (15 Laps) - 1) CONNOR CLEVELAND, 2) Jesse Edwards, 3) Timothy Davis, 4) Jeff Donnely, 5) Colin Bokus, 6) Chris Murray, 7) Pete Jeske, 8) John Linblade, 9) Wally Potter, 10) Anthony Alger, 11) D.J. Mabb, 12) Bob Schmidt, 13) Jack Bublak, 14) Ricky Davis, DNS) Zach Daurio
Pro Stock Feature Results (25 Laps) - 1) ROB YETMAN, 2) Cale Kneer, 3) Ken Martin, 4) Dave Depaulo, 5) Brandon Emigh, 6) Byron Wescott, 7) Dan Older, 8) Jeff Washburn, 9) Ed Thompson, 10) Frank Monroe, 11) Cole Lawton, 12) Dean Charbonneau, 13) Kim Duell, 14) Walt Brownell, 15) Dave Emigh, 16) Matt Freckleton
Street Stock Feature Results (20 Laps) - 1) KEN CONROY, 2) Randy Miller, 3) Josh Coonradt, 4) Bill Duprey, 5) Scott Lawrence, 6) Paul Braymer, 7) Justin Smith, 8) Matt
Mosher, 9) Dave Stickles, 10) Damon Anderson, 11) Jody Thew, 12) Jim Cutler, 13) Nathan Dahoda, 14) Kenny Towne, 15) Yule Cook, 16) David Shippee, 17) Tyler Michel, DNS) Ben Newsome
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Robbie Bellinger Wins Brewerton Speedway Modified Feature On Wild Last Lap
BREWERTON, NY - MAY 17,2013 (By Dave Medler) - What a night at the Brewerton Speedway in the Tracey Road Equipment Big Block Modifieds. There was a first-lap crash that took out some top competitors and late in the race the top-two runners, Ryan Bartlett and Pat Ward made contact on the final lap. It ended with Robbie Bellinger passing Matt Sheppard on that final lap for his second career Brewerton win.
Other winners on Eagle Beverage/Bud Light Night were, Kevan Cook, Nationwide Insurance IMCA Modifieds, Joe Isabell, Anchor Bar & Grill Mod Lites and Chuck Powelczyk, Four Cylinder Stocks.
Ryan Bartlett outgunned Jim Witko and the rest of the field to lead the opening lap of the 35 lap Tracey Road Equipment Big Block Modified feature just before a wild melee broke out. It appeared something happened to the Chuck Bower car as slowed dramatically just crossing the start/finish line stacking up the field collecting Bower, Dale Planck, Ryan Phelps, Billy Decker and Matt Hulsizer who went over. All drivers were okay, but the same couldn't be said for their equipment that suffered extensive damage and couldn't continue.
With 10 laps complete, Bartlett still set the pace out front. Witko ran second but had Pat Ward all over him looking for a way by with Rob Bellinger and Dan Vauter showing in the top-five.
At the halfway mark, Bartlett was having his best run of the season as he was still setting a quick pace at the front of the field. Witko, Ward and Bellinger were still in a tight battle for second, third and fourth with Vauter still showing in the top-five.
With 20 laps showing on the scoring tower, Bartlett was on rails as he opened a full straightaway lead, as he looked to runaway and hide. Pat Ward now ran second with Witko, Bellinger and Vauter still in the hunt.
With 10 to go Bartlett still led, but now timing and scoring showed Ward slowly reeling in Bartlett, cutting into his big lead. Bellinger, Witko and now Matt Sheppard who started deep in the pack worked his way into the top-five.
When starter Dave Farney gave the five to go sign, Ward drew within one car length of Bartlett setting up a shootout to the finish with Bellinger, Sheppard and Witko still in contention.
After working on Bartlett trying to find a way by, Ward was able to inch ahead exiting turn four coming down for the white flag. Going into turn one side by side Bartlett's car slid into Ward taking both up the track and out of the groove. This allowed Sheppard and Bellinger to shoot by. Just when it looked like Sheppard was going to pick up the win, Bellinger had other ideas as he drove it in hard in three and four and was able to outrun Sheppard to be the first under the checkers in the exciting finish.
After doing the victory lane roof dance and celebrating with his crew, Bellinger talked about how he put his Thompson Road Tavern/Black River Vending Services/JR U-Store/ Westward Painting/ No.8R in victory lane.
"We were pretty good all race, and for that to happen," Bellinger talking about the contact between leaders Pat Ward and Ryan Bartlett, "They just opened the door and we were there to capitalize."
"I saw them touch in turn one and both slid right to the top. I knew Matt (Sheppard) had been underneath me in three and four a couple times. We came down the backstretch coming down for the win. I had to pinch him a little and then we were alright." finished up Bellinger about the pass to get by Sheppard for his second career Brewerton win.
Bellinger also celebrated in victory lane with Fulton Speedway SUNY Canton Sportsman driver Beth Schneider who said yes to his marriage proposal just days earlier.
It looked like Kevan Cook was going to romp to an easy win in the Nationwide Insurance IMCA Modifieds after taking the lead on lap 4. Late cautions put Chris Fleming on Cook's back bumper. Over the final laps Fleming could get door to door with Cook, Cook was to strong as he picked up the win. Jason Amidon, Jim Walsh and Dane Keller Jr. finished third through fifth.
Just over a week ago Joe Isabell took delivery of a new chassis and had one run on the car last Saturday at the Fulton Speedway. It didn't take long to work the kinks out as he dominated the 20 lap Anchor Bar & Grill Mod Lite feature. Tim Devendorf came from deep in the field to finish second followed by Justin Williams, Doug Williams and Nick Graziano.
Chuck Powelczyk won his 59th career Four Cylinder Super Stock feature Friday night. Powelczyk took the lead on a lap 7 restart and was never seriously challenged after that. Aron Backus, Kyle Young, Jessica Herbert-Redhead and Wendall Washington finished second through fifth.
This coming Friday, May 24th, Tracey Road Equipment, the title sponsor of the Big Block Modifieds presents a night of fast, affordable, family, fun entertainment. On the race card will be the Tracey Road Equipment Big Block Modifieds, Nationwide Insurance IMCA Modifieds, Anchor Bar & Grill Mod Lites and Four Cylinder Super Stocks. Gates will open at 5:30 with racing at 7:30.
Adult grandstand admission is $12 with everyone 18 yrs old and younger admitted FREE to the grandstands.
BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS 35 LAPS - ROBBIE BELLINGER, Matt Sheppard, Pat Ward, Ryan Bartlett, Jim Witko, Dan Vauter, Jimmy Phelps, Chris Hile, Willy Decker, Larry Wight, Alan Johnson, Tim Sears Jr., Chuck Bower, Ryan Phelps, Dale Planck, Billy Decker, Matt Hulsizer, DNS, Johnny Hill, Chad Phelps.
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A Malta Mumble…
Malta ― May 15, 2013 ― Have you been watching Modified driver Jeremy Wilder? The 23 year old has recorded three top ten finishes in three outings at Albany Saratoga Speedway ― an 8th, 4th and 5th place run. Wilder has been planted right in between some pretty big veteran racers.
“It’s awesome to be able to know that we can run with those guys,” said Wilder. “Some of those guys have been racing longer then I have been alive and to know that our race team is at the caliber to compete with those guys and run right along-side of them ― it’s a nice ‘peace of mind’ I guess.
On Friday night Wilder will join the rest of the boys for the ‘Accord Speedway ‘King of the Catskills’ qualifier for the Modifieds. The Sportsman, Novice Sportsman, Pro Stock and Street Stock divisions will also be part of the schedule. Racing gets underway at 7:00 p.m.
Don’t forget ― on Sunday the Malta oval will host the ‘Electric City Riders AMA Motorcycle Club’ for motorcycle and four-wheel racing plus a Swapmeet. The action begins at noon.
Pit gates open at 4:00 p.m. with the grandstands opening at 5:00 p.m. Race time is 7:00 p.m. The front gate is $10 for adults, kids under 12 are $2.00. Entry into the pit area is $20 for members and $25.00 for non-members.
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TRUMBULL COUNTY BUSINESS COLLEGE TO PRESENT "STEEL VALLEY THUDNER" SATURDAY AT SHARON
By Mike Leone
Hartford, OH May 15, 2013 Sharon Speedway continues to battle Mother Nature seemingly every week this year, but is hoping for brighter, warmer weather this Saturday night (May 18) as it looks to complete its fifth straight week of racing action on Trumbull County Business College Night.
It'll be another installment of "Steel Valley Thunder" featuring the Governor Insurance Agency DIRTcar Big-Block Modifieds, Barris Supply RUSH Late Models, Summit Racing Equipment Modifieds, Gibson Insurance Agency Stock Cars, HTMA/Precise Racing Products Econo Mods, and the Deforest Used Parts Mini Stocks. Racing begins at 7 p.m.
The DIRTcar Big-Block Modifieds continue to churn out good car counts and great racing. The competition has been stout this season. Last Saturday, the Governor Insurance Agency division had 21 cars as Brian Swartzlander became the fourth different winner in as many races this season.
The other three winners this season currently command the top three spots in points with April 27 winner Rex King leading the way by three over May 4 winner Jim Weller, Jr. and opening night winner Rex King, Jr. by eight. New Yorker Ricky Richner continues to make the tow south every week from Niagara Falls and rides fourth just 14 points back. Richner will look for his fifth straight top six finish Saturday!
The Barris Supply RUSH Late Models have been putting on a lot of caution-free racing of late, but the few cautions that have occurred have set up some wild shootouts with lots of position changing. While all that took place behind Josh Double last Saturday, the 2011 champion was able to garner his season's first win and add valuable Sweeney Chevrolet Buick GMC Weekly Series points.
Last year's season finale winner, Dennis Lunger, Jr., continues to set the standard as he already has a pair of wins and a pair of third place finishes to date. The strong runs have propelled him to a 12-point lead over Eric Wilson, who has been right there week in and week out with four top six finishes in as many weeks.
Defending co-champion Joel Watson became the first repeat winner in the Modifieds last Saturday in the Summit Racing Equipment division's fifth event. Watson has quickly moved up the charts in the division's all-time win list in recent seasons and continues to be the guy everyone is shooting for. After not competing in the season's first two shows, Watson has won two of the three he has raced in!
The division's all-time winner and one-time winner this season, Alan Dellinger, saw his point lead shrink to just seven over Mike Kinney after his first DNF of the year. Neither Kinney nor Shawn Shingledecker, who sits third in points just eight behind Dellinger, have yet to win in 2013. A total of 44 different races have already competed this season!
The Gibson Insurance Agency Stock Cars continue to be the tightest championship race as just six points separates the top four! Last week, Mike Clark led the points by just one, this week he has a two-point advantage on Tim Burns, while two-time winner Paul Davis trails by three, and one-time Bryan Wagner is just six back. There have been four different Stock Car champions in the last four years as Clark looks to make it five for his first ever championship.
The youngsters have certainly had the upper hand in the Econo Mods this season. Ryan Fraley is coming off of his second win of the season and his career, while two-time victor Jeremy Double and Steve Burns, Jr. have also added wins. Burns has a two-point lead on Fraley, while Double is 18 back. The car count also continues to rise as new cars make their way out; in fact, 28 different drivers have competed to date this season.
Scott Gilliland feels he's been lucky in two of his three wins this season, but the nonetheless the Warren, Ohio driver leads all racers at the speedway in wins this season and commands the biggest point lead at 36 over Ray Gregory, who has been oh so close to victory on several occasions this year. Gregory ironically is ahead of 2011 and 2012 champions Bill Fuchs and Jim Haefke, Jr. by only one point!
Once again Saturday night, one lucky boy and girl under the age of 14 will win a bicycle or scooter thanks to King Bros. This promotion will continue throughout the 2013 season. The home-cooked kitchen special is chicken pot pie.
Pits open at 4 p.m. Saturday with grandstands at 5 and heat races slated for 7. Grandstand admission for those 14 and over without one of the special discounts is $13, while children under 14 are always free. Pit passes are $25. Parking and camping is always free.
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RULES FOR VICTORIA 200 AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY WEEKEND RELEASED FOR BOTH MODIFIEDS AND 602 CRATE SPORTSMAN
VERNON, NY- The first big weekend motorsports event of the season of the 2013 season in Central New York is rapidly approaching at the Utica-Rome Speedway and track officials have released the rule structure for the headline Modified event. The weekend starts on Sunday May 26 when Gates-Cole presents the Lucas Oil Empire Super Sprints plus a regular show of Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, and Pure Stocks plus a spectacular fireworks show. Then on Monday 27, VP Racing Fuels will present the Race of Champions Modified Series Victoria 200 which will pay $10,000 to the winner of the 100 lap main event. The 602 Crate Sportsman will join in on the action on Monday for a $1,000 event of their own.
The Modified rules are basically the same as the weekly rules the addition of sail panels. The Modifieds will run under this rule package on both Sunday and Monday, giving the drivers in attendance on Sunday an opportunity to tune in their cars with the sail panels. The rule highlights are below.
Modifieds (This rule package will be in place for both days)-
1) Must be Modified chassis.
2) 361 cubic inch or less - 2,400 pounds. (GAS ONLY)Small Blocks with Brodix Spec Aluminum heads-2350 lbs., Small Blocks with SB2 heads- Must weigh 2,500 pounds. As per weekly rules, no dome pistons allowed in Small Blocks.
3) Big Blocks - 2,500lbs. (GAS ONLY).
4) Cast iron blocks only - NO Aluminum blocks.
5) No tolerances on weight, must make weight after qualifying and main event.
6) No fuel injection.
7) Sail panels allowed - Total height is to be measured from ground to the highest point, not to exceed 65”. Total length is to be measured from rear axle, 48” from the center line to rear of car and 12” from center line forward. Maximum vertical lips will be 2” from door up and 2” from door down. 1 1/2“ tolerance on width allowed. The degree of angle from vertical lips (Upper and Lower) to rear plane of driver’s seat is 22 degrees. Sail panels must have same dimensions on both sides of car.
8) 4” inch maximum roof spoiler allowed. Spoiler must be mounted on rear of roof.
9) Tires -American Racer tires only. LF-SD-33 or harder, RF-SD-33/SD-38/SD-44/SD-48, LR-SD-33/SD-38/SD-44/SD-48, RR-SD-44/SD-48/SD-50 with McMod plating or other American Racer Cup track designation. No Late Model or non traditional Modified tread tires. Track has final say in tires. The speedway does not stock all available compounds and the following is a list what is normally available at the speedway- LF SD-33/SD-38, RF SD-33/SD-38, LR SD-33/SD-38/SD-44 RR SD-38/SD-44/SD-48.
10) For rules not covered here, please refer to the 2013 Utica-Rome Speedway rulebook which is available at www.uticaromespeedway.com.
The 602 Crate Sportsman rules are simple with home track tire, 2350 lbs for cars with aluminum wheels and 2300 lbs with steel wheels, and no rev box is required. Tires must be a traditional Modified type tread pattern.
Gates for the Sunday portion of the event open at 3 p.m. with racing at 5:30 p.m. with the fireworks following the racing program. On Monday, the gates will open at 2:30 p.m. with racing at 6 p.m.
For more information, please log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com or call the speedway office at (315)829-4557.
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STEWART FRIESEN CHARGES THROUGH TOUGH UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY FIELD TO TAKE $5,000 WIN
VERNON, NY- A chilly and windy evening greeted the Utica-Rome Speedway fans that braved the conditions this past Sunday, May 12, but they were treated to a fast paced show that was completed in less than three hours. Stewart Friesen charged to the big $5,000 payday after qualifying in the consolation event while Claude Hutchings, Jr. took home the top honors in the Sportsman. Tom Denton made a late race pass in the Pro Stock feature to take the victory in the Pro Stocks while Ricky Breed took another Pure Stock checkered flag.
Matt Sheppard and Vic Coffey brought the Modified starting field down to the green flag to begin the 50 lap main event with Coffey grabbing the early lead as he led the opening circuit. Sheppard was able to charge by to lead lap two and slowly began to edge away from the rest of the field. The first caution of the night came out on lap seven, allowing the field to catch up with Sheppard. The restart saw Coffey again take the lead, and this time, he was able to hang on to it but Sheppard was all over him as he attempted to retake the lead.
While Coffey and Sheppard battle out front, it was 20th place starter Stewart Friesen who was turning heads as was charging through the pack. By lap six, he was into the top ten and on lap 15, he cracked the top five just as Sheppard regained the lead from Coffey. Friesen’s charge was not done yet, however as he was into third on lap 19 as the caution flew a second time, allowing him to catch up to the leading duo of Sheppard and Coffey.
The restart saw Sheppard hold off Coffey this time for the top spot with Friesen still looking for more and on lap 21, Friesen made a pass on the low side of the speedway to grab second from Coffey. A lap later on lap 22, Friesen completed his charge to the front as he went underneath Sheppard for the lead. As the field completed the halfway point on lap 25, it was Friesen setting a blistering pace over Sheppard, Coffey, Larry Wight, and Brett Hearn. Rounding out the top ten was Mike Mahaney, Ronnie Johnson, Pat Ward, Ryan Godown, and Rob Bellinger.
The final caution period of the event came on lap 28 which would be the only thing that would slow Friesen’s pace as he again took off from the field when green flag racing resumed. 12th place starter Hearn was now making his presence felt as he began to pick his way through the top five as he was fourth on lap 28 and up to third a circuit later as he began to pursue second place Sheppard. This dropped Sheppard into the clutches of Ward, who after starting 22nd, was making an impressive charge of his own. As the circuits wound down, Sheppard and Ward would exchange the third spot on several occasions and when the checkered flag flew it was Friesen taking the $5,000 win over Hearn, Sheppard, Ward, and Mahaney. Wight, Todd Burley, Johnson, Ryan Phelps, and Coffey.
Sportsman action saw Craig Pope lead the opening lap of the 20 lap feature with Jack Miller charging by to lead lap two. Claude Hutchings, Jr. was on the charge from his 10th starting spot as used the high side of the speedway to make his way to the front. By lap five, Hutchings was at the front of field setting the pace as he looked to take his second win of the season. The only yellow flag of the event came out on lap 14, and when the green flag came out again, it was again Hutchings showing the way but now Jeremy Vunk was right on his bumper. Vunk made several bids for the win but Hutchings was able to hang on to take the win with Vunk, Matt Janczuk, Miller, and Steve Way trailing.
In the 20-lap Pro Stock feature Jim Money took the lead at the initial green flag. Money paced the field for the first three laps as he worked the high side of the speedway. Meanwhile, fifth place starter, Mark Effner utilized the bottom of the track and he used that to take over the top spot on lap four. Effner continued on the bottom of the speedway as tenth place starter Brett Belden closed in. Belden got to his back bumper by lap seven and began looking for a way by. He was able to get a run through the middle of turns one and two on lap 10 to secure the top position. Belden stayed in the middle and two laps later Effner was able to get the lead back on the bottom. Effner was chased by Belden as Tom Denton moved through the field after starting 13th. Denton worked the high-line and tracked down the leaders. On lap 18 Denton made the move in the high lane as the field exited the fourth turn and he had the lead by a nose at the line. Before another lap could be completed the caution came out for Dan Lashure as he stopped in turn two. Denton led the final two circuits en route to his second win of the season. He was followed to the line by Effner, Belden, Glenn Forward and last week’s winner Ed Ostrander.
Chris Cunningham jumped out to the lead at the start of the 15-lap Pure Stock main-event. Cunningham, who started in fourth, worked by both Stan Clark and Jim Thomas by using a three wide move to take over the top spot. Cunningham remained the leader throughout the first four laps before Chris Watkins was able to pass him for the lead on the inside of turn four. Watkins stayed put on the bottom of the speedway. Watkins was leader when the caution came out on lap nine for Bill Mason who was second at the time. Mason had mechanical issues and went off the speedway in turn four. The restart saw Watkins leading with Ricky Breed and Ron Hawker in pursuit. Watkins never wavered off the bottom speedway with Breed using the top to get by him with just two laps to go. Breed went on for his third win of the season. Watkins finished second but failed post race tech giving the second spot to Hawker. Cunningham finished in third while Tim Janczuk and Frank Hyatt completed the top five.
Next Sunday, May 19, Mirabito Fuel Group and HR Refuse present a regular show of Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, and Pure Stocks. Gates will open at 3:30 p.m. with racing at 6 p.m. For more information, log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com or call the speedway office for (315) 829-4557.
MODIFIED FEATURE FINISH (50-LAPS): STEWART FRIESEN, Brett Hearn, Matt Sheppard, Pat Ward, Mike Mahaney, Larry Wight, Todd Burley, Ronnie Johnson, Ryan Phelps, Vic Coffey, Billy Decker, Dale Planck, Willy Decker, Robby Bellinger, Jimmy Davis, Darwin Greene, Matt Fink, Mike Bowman, Ryan Godown, Jason Rood, Casey Williams, Adam Roberts, Brad Alger, Alan Johnson
DNQ: Dave Allen, Paul Jensen, Jeff Leslie, Tim Schneider Jr., Aaron Jacobs, Billy VanInwegen, Jimmy Phelps
SPORTSMAN FEATURE FINISH (20-LAPS): CLAUDE HUTCHINGS JR., Jeremy Vunk, Matt Janczuk, Jack Miller, Steve Way, Chris Mackey, Randy Shantel, Rocky Warner, Tye-Scott Rood, Craig Pope, Mike Stiles, Robert Barker, Heath Carney, A.J. Filbeck, Stephen Denton, Chris McCoy, Andrew Ferguson, Bobby Heintz, Kyle DeMetro, Tim Murphy, Chad Ray
PRO STOCK FEATURE FINISH (20-LAPS): TOM DENTON, Mark Effner, Bret Belden, Glenn Forward, Ed Ostrander, Pete Stefanski, Bill Knapp, A.J. Digsby, Chris Carr, Shawn Frost, Joe Palmer, Jim Money, Dana Camenga, Corie Locke, Luke Horning, Dan Lashure, Andy Lashure, Gus Hollner, Dennis Joslin, Cale Hoffman, Randy Cossellman
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RAIN KO’S SATURDAY NIGHT – URC SPRINTS HEADED TO DIS THIS WEEKEND
By Charlie Brown, Delmar, DE – Showers and thunderstorms spread throughout the day forced the cancellation of Saturday May 11th’s racing action at the Delaware International Speedway. This was the second time in five weeks that Mother Nature has curtailed the action at the half-mile.
Looking ahead to Saturday night, May 18th, the United Racing Company will make its first of two stop this season along with the five weekly divisions. Fans can check out a preview of the URC’s 2013 season by using the following link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FH7r7TKgidg.
Defending champion Robbie Stillwagon who won the 2013 opener and J.J. Grasso who picked up the win at Selinsgrove in the Jack Gunn Memorial on Saturday night will be headed south to a track where both have won before. The sprint cars will be joined by the five weekly divisions. Gates open at 4:30 with hot laps at 7p.m. General admission is just $20 with pit admission $25. Kids 13 and under are free on the spectator when accompanied by a paying adult.
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RAIN STOPS RACING AT BRIDGEPORT SPEEDWAY DURING BIG BLOCK MODIFIED FEATURE
Bridgeport, NJ (May 12, 2013) – On Mother’s Night at Bridgeport Speedway, it took a third round of rain showers to finally stop the racing. With nine circuits completed, Ryan Watt was leading the Big Block Modified event. The remainder of this race will be concluded at a later date. The Crate/Sportsman main event was postponed and this race will be contested in the future as well. Prior to the third round of wet weather, Brian Ludwig won the Outlaw Stock Car feature with Ian Humphries picking up the victory in the D.A.’S Auto Body and Repair Rookie race.
At the start of the 30-lap Big Block Modified feature, Mike Franz grabbed the lead with Scott Irwin, Mike Iles and Matt Harrell in pursuit. By lap 2, Iles had just motored into the runner-up spot when he stopped in turn four with a flat tire. When action got back underway, Harrell blasted to the front of the pack. Ryan Watt, who started the event in twelfth, had just moved into second place when a slowing Stan Frankenfield, Jr. caused the yellow lights to illuminate the track with four circuits completed. On the restart, Watt charged to the front with Harrell and Richie Pratt, Jr. in his tracks. On lap 6, the caution flag was displayed as Frankenfield, Jr. began to slow down on the track. Following the waving of the green flag, the top three remained in order with Duane Howard driving into fourth. Dave
Witte’s ride slowed in turn four and the yellow flag appeared with seven laps recorded. When action got back underway, Watt was still on top and was followed by Harrell, Pratt, Jr., and Howard. On lap 9, Rob Nixon’s spin stopped the highly entertaining racing action. Before the green flag could wave, a moderate rain shower began to pelt the track and the race was stopped. When the race resumes at a future date, Watt will be the leader with Harrell, Pratt, Jr., Howard, and Mike Barone completing the top five. The winners of the Big Block Modified heats were Scott Irwin, Mike Franz, and Dave Witte. Sammy Piazza was the victor in the consolation race.
In the 15-lap Outlaw Stock Car feature, Brian Ludwig paced the field for the entire distance to win his third career race at Bridgeport Speedway. Ed Tinsman and Tom Wills, Sr. had a good duel for second place with Tinsman coming out on top. With Wills, Sr. taking third, Jimmy Avery finished fourth and Spider Ensinger wound up in fifth. The Outlaw Stock Car heats were won by Brian Ludwig and Ed Tinsman.
In the D.A.’S Auto Body and Repair Rookie Series race, Ian Humphries visited victory lane for the fourth time this season. Kris Lilick, Jesse James Bonaduce, and Jeff Bubori followed Humphries across the finish line.
Due to the rain, the Crate/Sportman feature will be contested at a later date. Mike Cogdill and Steve Searock won the Crate/Sportsman qualifying events.
On Saturday, May 18, Bike and Scout Night takes place at Bridgeport Speedway. All bike riders receive free admission along with scouts in uniform. The TSRS Sprint Cars will be making their first appearance at Bridgeport Speedway this season. The Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman, and D.A.’s Auto Body and Repair Rookies are on the agenda as well. The Outlaw Stock Cars will not be competing on this night. Pit gates open at 4:00 p.m. with the grandstand turnstiles opening at 5:00 p.m. Action gets underway at 6:30 p.m. Spectators (16 and older) are admitted for $20 with students (10-15) being admitted for $10. Kids 9 and under are free.
BRIDGEPORT SPEEDWAY RESULTS – SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013
Big Block Modifieds
BIG BLOCK MODIFIED FEATURE - 30 LAPS – RUNNING ORDER AFTER NINE LAPS COMPLETED – CONCLUSION DATE TBA 1. Ryan Watt 2. Matt Harrell 3. Richie Pratt, Jr. 4. Duane Howard 5. Mike Barone 6. Jimmy Horton 7. Neal Williams 8. Sammy Piazza 9. Mike Iles 10. David Hunt 11. Dom Buffalino 12. Rick Laubach 13. Rocco Infante 14. Tommy Beamer 15. Mike Franz 16. Rob Nixon 17. Ron Roberts 18. PJ Oliver 19. Scott Irwin 20. Lou Cicconi 21. Tom Maccherone 22. Dave Witte 23. Stan Frankenfield, Jr. 24. Eric Kormann 25. Sean Gunther
DNQ: Wade Hendrickson, Travis Hill, Ed Firth, Dave Shirk, Don Cogdill, III, Bob Sarkisian
Heat 1 - 1.Scott Irwin 2. Richie Pratt, Jr. 3. Matt Harrell 4. Mike Barone 5. Ryan Watt 6. Sean Gunther
Heat 2 - 1. Mike Franz 2. Mike Iles 3. Eric Kormann 4. Rick Laubach 5. Jimmy Horton 6. Stan Frankenfield, Jr.
Heat 3 - 1. Dave Witte 2. Dominick Buffalino 3. Duane Howard 4. Neal Williams 5. Ron Roberts 6. David Hunt
Consolation - 1. Sammy Piazza 2. Rob Nixon 3. Rocco Infante 4. Lou Cicconi 5. PJ Oliver 6. Tom Maccherone
Provisional - Tommy Beamer
ROOKIE SERIES FEATURE - 8 LAPS 1. IAN HUMPHRIES 2. Kris Lillick 3. Jesse James Bonaduce 4. Jeff Bubori
Crate/Sportsman
Heat 1 - 1.Mike Cogdill 2. Ricky DiEva 3. Steve Davis 4. Marc Herman 5.Steve Young 6. Pat Hires 7. Jason Neidlinger 8. Scott Hulmes
Heat 2 - 1. Steve Searock 2. Matt Budd 3. Kyle Borror 4. CJ Jones 5. Dave Damiano 6. Brad Roberts 7. Kevin Belmont 8. Guy Germano
CRATE/SPORTSMAN FEATURE - 20 LAPS – POSTPONED – DATE TBA
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Sheppard Sizzles For 2nd Win of Season In Fast-Paced Canandaigua Card
Four of six features run off caution-free as superb track conditions greet nearly 100 racers
Canandaigua, NY – May 11, 2013
Two-time defending points champion Matt Sheppard from Waterloo, NY returned to winning form Saturday night at Canandaigua Motorsports Park, charging from 18th to grab the lead from Danny Johnson with just four laps left and capture the thrilling Team Tiremasters Big-Block Modified victory.
Dave Marcuccilli (SafetyAwareness Solutions Sportsman), Nick Cooper (Castner Performance 305 Sprint), Derek Excell (Pure Stock) and Andrew Jacobson (Community Car Care of Waterloo New Legends Sportsman) each triumphed in their caution-free features while Mike Welch remained undefeated following his fourth straight Parts Plus Street Stock win on Champion Power Equipment 'Mothers of Racing' Night at the popular Ontario County Fairgrounds oval.
Sheppard emerged as the first repeat Big-Block winner after four events, at the same time keeping Johnson winless with a bold maneuver that sent sparks flying in a late-race pass under the starter's stand in front of the grandstand crowd.
“I knew it was going to be interesting at the end,” smiled Sheppard, 30, with sights set clearly on a fourth track title in the past five years at CMP for car owner Jeff Brownell and the no. 9s F.X. Caprara Car Co.-Xtreme Lubricants/Bicknell Team. “But with just a couple laps left sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do to get (victory lane).”
“Danny and I were side-by-side going into turn three and there were two lapped cars running side-by-side right in front of us. So we were both kind of trapped there. As far as I knew Danny was still behind the lapped car in three and I couldn't see the lapped car coming out of four so I started easing around the #19 (Justin Wright). Then I felt (Danny) there on my right-rear quarter-panel at the same time,” Sheppard explained.
Johnson settled for second ahead of Justin Haers, Australian Peter Britten, Gary Tomkins and Jimmy Phelps, with this year's only other feature winners Alan Johnson and Billy Dunn next in line after 35 laps.
Starting 13th in the 25-car feature field, Johnson needed just nine times around the ultra-fast half-miler to bolt past early leader Mike O'Brien. A pair of yellow flags for the slowing mounts of Dave Rauscher and Marcus Dinkins on lap 12 brought Johnson back to the field and at the halfway mark Sheppard had cracked the front-five.
'Super Matt' disposed of third-place runner Tomkins on lap 22 and overtook Haers for the runner-up spot two lap later. The two leaders pulled away from the pack before Sheppard reeled in Johnson with five to go and finally ducked under DJ for the final exchange as the lapped counter clicked off 32 and their sheet metal met.
“This car has been really good here the last three weeks,” noted Sheppard, after logging his 29th career Big-Block win in wine country; five came last season. “It was really awesome tonight and so was the track. You know it was racy anytime you can start 18th and get to the front. You know you had a good car and a good race track.”
Similar to Sheppard's magnificent march to the front, Marcuccilli needed nearly the entire distance to claim victory in the 25-lap Sportsman nightcap. Falling into 15th on the 25-car starting grid, the Cayuga, NY chauffeur reached fifth-place by lap 13 and methodically picked off the front-runners in convincing fashion aboard his potent no. m1 Mike Laird Construction-Stormin/Bicknell mount .
With a handful of laps to go, Marcuccilli swept past both race-long leader Jeff Davoli and Matt Guererri, while points leader Kevin Ridley closed to within three car-lengths at the stripe. Guererri, Canadian traveler A.J. Lewis and Greg Cool filled out the final top-five.
“Kevin and I had a real good race going, figured whoever got to the front first tonight was probably going to win it,” remarked Marcuccilli, who already matched last season's win total after copping Canandaigua's 2013 opener on April 5. “I got ahead there and was able to stay in front of him.”
“It was awesome behind the wheel tonight, we finally got the car figured out after struggling for a couple weeks. Its still not easy getting to the front at this place, always a lot of good cars in front of us --- usually most of the field. I expected maybe a top-5 tonight but not a win going green to checkers. 25 laps without a caution was pretty cool,” Marcuccilli added.
Legends Sportsman grad Davoli jumped out from his outside pole-position start and held a seemingly comfortable advantage most of the way. Yet the final 10 laps when it counted most it was the open-wheel veterans showing the way as Marcuccilli moved ahead for good on lap 20 and 18th-place starter Ridley followed in his tire tracks the next circuit.
The 20-lap Sprint Car A-Main needed every circuit to determine a winner as second-generation standout Cooper from Stanley and first-year wingman Todd Henderson staged a fierce battle right down to the checkered flag.
“This was the best race I've had by far in my career,” beamed Cooper in victory lane. The son of full-fender favorite Mike Cooper, Nick broke into the winner's circle for the first time last September in what turned out to be Canandaigua's season-finale.
“Todd Henderson and all these guys, just to win with them is a blessing in itself. And to win against this type of competition is really incredible,” Cooper stated.
Making just his second start in the opening four events, pole-sitter Dan Kuhn appeared in control much of the way until Cooper and Henderson slid in to join the fray up front. Buckled in behind the wheel of his potent no. 35 Schwartz Excavating-Honeoye Auto Parts/Eagle, Cooper wrestled the lead away on lap 15 before Henderson nabbed the top spot two laps later.
Looking for his fourth win a row, division rookie Charlie Donk drop-kicked Kuhn to fourth as he made it a three-car contest in the closing laps. With chief starter Scott Hixson's white flag in hand, Cooper dove under Henderson exiting turn four and a half-mile later forged a narrow two car-length victory while Donk crossed the line third. Kuhn and local pilot Darryl Ruggles rounded out the top-five.
A perfect six for six (3 feature wins, 3 heat wins) and leading every lap en route to his three main event victories, Lyons' Welch was suddenly set back by a blown power steering hose in his qualifier. But that only delayed the inevitable as Canandaigua's all-time stock car feature winner moved from 10th to first in 11 laps and cruised home for his 53rd career checkered flag at the Routes 5&20 speedplant.
“It was tough getting through traffic tonight, wasn't sure if I was going to catch Blane (Smith) but the car was strong,” said Welch, the record eight-time Canandaigua points champion in Street Stock racing. “Did a little trick move from the top to bottom to get past him coming out of turn four and fortunately it worked.”
Everything seemed to be working for row two starter Smith as he moved from third to first at the drop of the green and never flinched. Two brief slowdowns for the parked machines of Charles Harvey (lap 6) and Dave Rogers (lap 9) kept the field bunched long enough to give Welch his chance.
Welch put his 00 Investor Services-Mark's Garage-Parts Plus Chevrolet Impala ride past CJ Guererri on the lap 10 restart then moved below Smith as the lead duo completed lap 11 in the headline 15-lapper. Despite Jack Terrell and Guererri locking bumpers with one to go, Welch would not be denied his fourth win of 2013 ahead of Smith, Jake Karlnoski, Bill Weller and Steve Austin.
“Hats off to Jeremie (Corcoran, CMP Promoter), he has an awesome track here,” Welch said. “You can go anywhere you want around this place. And victory lane is a good place to be at the end of the night.”
The 15-lap Pure Stock feature finished the same way the previous two did. However, on this occasion, winner Excell got to keep all his earnings after another dominant performance in the no. 18xl Stymie Cat Trucking-Collins Shoeing-Peters Racing Chevrolet Monte Carlo.
“Some numbers were ground off (engine) last week but it had nothing to do with horsepower,” noted Excell, who prior to this season last parked in Canandaigua's winner's circle after a rookie Street Stock win in June of 1987. “I apologized, we got things fixed this week and everything went good for us. The car was on a rail tonight, it was like driving a Cadillac around here.”
Starting seventh out of 12 entries, Excell pulled into third after three circuits and took over the point from Nick Dandino the lap after. Without a caution period to slow the event, the Waterloo, NY warrior opened up more than a straightaway margin en route to victory ahead of Wayne Ellison, Roger Bush, Mike Minutolo Sr. and points leader Eric Chapman.
Putting an exclamation point on his career in the Legends Sportsman ranks, Rochester's Jacobson led flag-to-flag to score his second victory of the season and win by nearly a full straightaway in the 10-lap finale.
“Been looking forward to this day for a long time when I can finally move up and join the big dogs, its pretty exciting,” remarked Jacobson, who also claimed a pair of checkered flags last summer aboard his Grassman Landscaping-Gorham Market-Blowers Agri Service/TEO mount, this year numbered 61. “We're going to move up to the Sportsman in two weeks after taking next week off.”
“This class is great as it gave me a lot of laps and lots of track time. The car count is a little less so if you get out of shape is isn't too costly. We wanted to try out some different things today with tires and some other stuff. They obviously worked out well, can't wait to come back in a couple weeks,” Jacobson added.
Jason Scales crossed the line second chased by opening night winner Jordan Siri, Ray Hendershot, Kenny Washburn and Bruce Batzel.
Canandaigua Motorsports Park returns to action on Saturday, May 18, with a solid six-star show featuring the Team Tiremasters Big-Block Modified, Safety Awareness Solutions Sportsman, Castner Performance 305 Sprint Car, Parts Plus Street Stock, Pure Stock and Community Car Care of Waterloo New Legends Sportsman racing plus slam bang $1,000-to-win Demolition Derby. Qualifying begins at 7pm.
Big-Block Modified Feature (35 laps): 1. 9s-Matt Sheppard, 2. 27j-Danny Johnson, 3. 3-Justin Haers, 4. 21a-Peter Britten, 5. 84-Gary Tomkins, 6. 99j-Jimmy Phelps, 7. 10j-Alan Johnson, 8. 49-Billy Dunn, 9. 7x-Steve Paine, 10. 74-Matt Billings, 11. 28p-Eldon Payne,Jr., 12. 91-Chad Homan, 13. 77-Brian Sage, 14. 56-Vince Vitale, 15. 16=Mike Bowman, 16. 8-Rich Scagliotta, 17. 10-Tim Currier, 18. 1jr-Mike O'Brien, 19. 48too-Dave Rauscher, 20. 19w-Justin Wright, 21. 88-Dave Allen, 22. 17-Marcus Dinkins, 23. 3m-Henry Maier, 24. 5*-Tyler Siri, 25. 15-Matt Fink.
Heats (8 laps)
#1: Rauscher, D.Johnson, Dinkins, Homan, Dunn, Haers, Bowman, Payne, Maier.
#2: Sage, Vitale, O'Brien, Tomkins, Sheppard, Billings, Fink, Wright, Scagliotta.
#3: Currier, Phelps, Paine, Britten, A.Johnson, Siri, Allen, Don Slover.
Sportsman Modified Feature (25 laps): 1. m1-David Marcuccilli, 2. 20x-Kevin Ridley, 3. 12g-Matt Guererri, 4. 24a-A.J. Lewis, 5. 22-Greg Cool, 6. 76-Rob Bussey, 7. 66-Dan Wiesner, 8. 7-Paul Guererri, 9. 67g-Eric Giguere, 10. 17t-Tyler Meeks, 11. 1f-A.J. Lloyd, 12. 29g-Steve Gray, 13. 31-Kane Bristol, 14. 25g-Nick Guererri, 15. 57b-Frank Burnell Jr., 16. c21-Jeff Davoli, 17. 10-Karl Comfort, 18. 42-Daryl Nutting, 19. 28-Russ Marsden, 20. 3m-Jimmy Maier, 21. 21m-Randy McCulloch, 22. 2L-Loren Lincoln, 23. 16k-Kaitlin Pashina, 24. 26-Josh Livingston, 25. 1-Chris Mangiarelli.
Heats (8 laps)
#1: Meeks, Bussey, N.Guererri, Bristol, Giguere, Maier, Livingston, Lincoln, Nutting.
#2: P.Guererri, Gray, M.Guererri, Comfort, Wiesner, Lewis, McCulloch, Pashina.
#3: Davoli, Cool, Burnell, Ridley, Marcuccilli, Lloyd, Marsden, Mangiarelli.
Castner Performance 305 SprintsbFeature (20 laps): 1. 35-Nick Cooper, 2. 18h-Todd Henderson, 3. 99-Charlie Donk, 4. 99k-Dan Kuhn, 5. 48jr.-Darryl Ruggles, 6. 22t-Mark Tychoniewicz, 7. 21-Justin Henderson, 8. 48a-Alysha Ruggles, 9. 14-Jake Muench, 10. 22d-Bob Dreste, 11. 21g-William Glover, 12. 22-Jon Preston, 21-Scott Wagner (DNS), 17-Josh Azzi (DNS), 15-Mike Castner Jr. (DNS).
NEXT EVENT: Sat., May 18 @ 7pm; Empire/Beck's Recycling & Corby's Collision present Big-Block Modified/Sportsman/Street Stock/Pure Stock/305 Sprint/New Legends Sportsman plus $1,000-to-win Demolition Derby.
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Marc Johnson is Modified Strong at Albany Saratoga Speedway
Malta ― May 10, 2013 ― Modified driver Marc Johnson was fast from the moment he stepped onto Albany Saratoga Speedway soil on Friday. Johnson won his qualifying event after a solid battle with Matt Delorenzo and that same duo would entertain the crowd again during the 35 lap Modified feature event ― with Johnson owning both events when the checkered flag waved.
At the start of the event it was all Mike Perrotte. The veteran driver showed the field around until shortly before the halfway mark when Marc Johnson, who started the event from the fourth row, continued his dominance and stole the race lead from Perrotte. And wherever Johnson went, Delorenzo continued to follow with the top three ―Johnson, Delorenzo and Brett Hearn putting on a fantastic show as they dealt with heavy bouts of lapped traffic.
Johnson secured his first win of the 2013 race season. Delorenzo, Hearn, Perrotte and Jeremy Wilder rounded out the top five.
The 25 lap Sowle Tractor Trailer Repair sponsored Sportsman feature event was paying $1,100 to the race winner so many were anxious to get to the front of the field when the green flag was let go. Leo Sousie took the lead from the start but it wouldn’t last long before Frank Hoard III took command. Hoard dominated and ran the high side of the 4/10 mile oval. Coming on five to go the top-five were tight and they were starting to come upon some heavy lap traffic when the caution came out
tightening everything up. On the restart Mike Tholin was all over Eric Mack for the runner up slot ― and then he set his sights on the race leader. With one lap
remaining Tholin took over the lead.
Hoard held on for second place while Scott Duell, Eric Mack and Jon Miller all had impressive runs to round out the top five.
Connor Cleveland was back in victory lane when the 15 lap Novice Sportsman concluded. Cleveland started eighth on the field and wasted little time getting to the front ― securing the race lead from Shannon Donnelly on the third circuit. It was Cleveland’s second win in the newly formed division. Last week’s novice victor, Jack Bublak followed with Jesse Edwards, Doug Hancock and Chris Murray rounding out the top five.
Jeff Washburn has hopes of breaking Pro Stock driver Rob Yetman’s win streak in the 25 lap feature event. Washburn jumped out into the lead but it wasn’t long before
Kenny Martin was showing the way around. Martin had a ½ straightaway lead for a good portion of the event and he easily landed in victory lane. It was Martin’s first win at the Malta oval.
Yetman, who was involved in an earlier incident try running Martin down but ran out of time and had to settle for second place. Great runs by Dan Older, Cale Kneer and Dave DePaulo for top five honors.
Last season Randy Miller liked that victory lane feeling so it was time to revisit. Miller pretty much owned the 20 lap Street Stock feature event and went on to start his 2013 season win list. An impressive run by Nathan Dahoda for the second position while Justin Smith, Ken Conroy and David Shippee were having fun dicing back in forth for top five runs.
Things ― Rain was expected to hit at about 10:00 p.m. so management was quick to get things going on Friday night… Prior to the start of the racing action the AS management team honored Kenny Tremont for his success, last week’s Modified feature win was Tremont’s 300’s career win. Announcer Dan Martin did a rundown of Tremont’s stats which are extremely impressive; 58 wins and 12 point championships [67 wins at Devils Bowl] and let’s not forget Tremont’s success at AS’s sister speedway, Lebanon Valley, where he is the winningest driver with 119 big block and 10 small block wins plus 13 championship titles… Brandon Emigh missed out on a qualifying position in his Pro Stock qualifying event due to a left front flat tire… Shea Montgomery was a newbee at the speedway in the Sportsman division. Montgomery easily qualified during his qualifying event… nice run by modified rookie Brian Gleason, he owned his qualifying until the later stages after a good battle with Marc Johnson who went on to pick up the victory… at 7:50 p.m. management said the rain was on the way sooner than expected… the sportsman consolation events had the ‘win it and you’re in it’ theme so several drivers didn’t make the main event… at 8:00 all events but the features were in the record books… only one caution event throughout all of that racing, impressive… unfortunately that caution was for Jack Swinton who hit the wall pretty hard and broke something in the rear of his automobile… the Sportsman division was the first to get to run their feature event… early into the modified feature event Ronnie Johnson took a horrible ride down the backstretch with a violent series of barrel rolls in his Palmer’s Service automobile. Johnson. Johnson got out of the car after the incident but was put into the ambulance as a precaution. Race promoter Lyle DeVore reported on Saturday that Johnson was doing ok but his car was not… [praying for rain for Johnson on Saturday since he will be quite sore]… management got all racing completed without a drop of rain… management apologies to Marc Johnson, Connor Cleveland, first AS career winner Kenny Martin, Randy Miller and Todd Goldstein for not being able to celebrate their victories with announcer Mike Warren since the program was rushed along…
Modified Feature Results: (35 Laps) - 1)MARC JOHNSON 2) Matt Delorenzo, 3) Brett Hearn, 4) Mike Perrotte 5) Jeremy Wilder, 6) Peter Britten, 7) Keith Flach, 8) Stewart Friesen, 9) Ken Tremont Jr, 10) Matt Depew, 11) Bodie Bellinger, 12) Mark Kislowski, 13) Rich Scagliotta, 14) Jeff Trombley, 15) Jimmy Cottrell, 16) Brian Gleason, 17) Ray Hoard, 18) Kyle Sheldon, 19) Don Ronca, 20) Pep Corradi, 21) Tony Ballestero, 22) Floyd Billington, 23) Justin Barber, 24) Neil Stratton, 25) Rich Ronca, 26)
Justin Boehler, 27) Ronnie Johnson, 28) John Proctor
Modified Heats: Marc Johnson, Ronnie Johnson, Mark Kislowski
Sportsman Feature Results: (25 Laps) - 1) MIKE THOLIN, 2) Frank Hoard III, 3) Scott Duell, 4) Eric Mack, 5) Jon Miller, 6) Jeremy Pitts, 7) Brett Wright, 8) Jack Speshock, 9) Dave Baranowski Jr, 10) Andy Durie, 11) Jake Scarborough, 12) Cody Bleau, 13) Mark Hughes, 14) Robert Budlak, 15) Nick Lussier, 16) D.J. Brundige, 17) Mike Jeske, 18) Leo Sousie, 19) Jack Gentile, 20) Joe Orlando, 21) Mike Ostrander, 22) Shea Montgomery, 23) Dan Santabarbara, 24) Luke Klob, 25) Adam McAuliffe, 26)
Paul Dunham, 27) Justin Comes, 28) Joey Scarborough, 29) Derek McGrew, D
Sportsman Heats: Eric Mack, Leo Sousie, Mike Ostrander, Mike Jeske, Jon Miller
Sportsman Consi: Cody Bleau, Robert Bublak. Jr.
Novice Sportsman Feature Results: ( Laps) - 1)CONNOR CLEVELAND, 2) Jack Bublak, 3) Jesse Edwards, 4) Doug Hancock, 5) Chris Murray, 6) Timothy Davis, 7) Ricky Davis, 8) D.J. Mabb, 9) John Linblade, 10) Shannon Donnelly, 11) Wally Potter, 12) Colin Bokus, 13) Bob Schmidt, DNS) Anthony Alger
Novice Sportsman Heats: Chris Murray, Jesse Edwards
Pro Stock Feature Results: (25 Laps) - 1) KEN MARTIN, 2) Rob Yetman, 3) Dan Older, 4) Cale Kneer, 5) Dave Depaulo, 6) Jeff Washburn, 7) Ed Thompson, 8) Brandon Emigh, 9) Dean Charbonneau, 10) Dave Emigh, 11) Byron Wescott, 12) Kim Duell, 13) Frank Monroe, 14) Walt Brownell
Prostock Heats: Jeff Washburn, Byron Wescott
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Penn Can Speedway Offers Modified “Racer’s Dream” Payout At Tuesday, June 11 Pioneer Pole Buildings Inc.-VP Racing Fuels 'Clash at the Can' Event; Purse And Special Awards Now Top $30,000 For Fourth Annual Race; Manmiller Electric Sponsors Modified Heat Races
SUSQUEHANNA, PA – Northeast Modified racers asked for it. And they got it!
The 2013 Pioneer Pole Buildings Inc.-VP Racing Fuels 'Clash at the Can' offers a “racer's dream” pay structure on Tuesday, June 11 (rain date: June 12) at Penn Can
Speedway. The 60-lap big-block/small-block Modified spectacular ensures overflowing pay envelopes throughout the field with a 'non-top-heavy' purse.
The base payout for the Race of Champions Dirt Modified Tour-sanctioned event was set at $28,000. That record-setting total has grown as the countdown continues to the
fourth running of the 'Clash at the Can' co-promotion involving track managers Al Wilcox and Reed Miller and Brett Deyo of BD Motorsports Media LLC.
Associate sponsorship for the event comes from Sharkey’s Fuels and Husqvarna, joining title sponsors Pioneer Pole Buildings Inc. and VP Racing Fuels in addition to a
long list of bonus and special award partners.
The tire-wear-friendly one-third-mile Penn Can oval serves as a great equalizer between traveling teams and weekend warriors. A Friday, Saturday or Sunday night
'working man' racer could – and many will – leave the Susquehanna County facility with a large payout.
The winner of the event earns a $5,000 minimum top prize plus lap money. But there is no significant drop-off through the field. Second place pays $4,000, with $2,500
for third, $1,800 for fourth and $1,500 for fifth. The remainder of the top-10 pay structure is as follows: $1,400 (sixth), $1,300 (seventh), $1,200 (eighth), $1,100
(ninth) and $1,000 (10th).
The 'Clash' pays $500 to take the green flag! Additionally, the first six drivers failing to make the field via the consolations will transfer into the first Trackside Products 'Dash into the Clash' 6 1/2-lap Last Chance Qualifier. The 'Dash into the Clash' victor can either take $650 cash or the last starting spot in the main, paying $500 green money. All other 'Dash into the Clash' participants earn $50.
Bonus money and special awards have pressed the night's total take for Modifieds to more than $30,000. Most recently, Manmiller Electric of Shoemakersville, Pa., has
signed on to reward each of the Modified heat-race winners with $50 cash. Manmiller Electric is owned by racer Doug Manmiller, who will compete in the 'Clash' driving
Josh Biever's No. 46.
A complete list of incentives and special awards can be found on the web at www.bdmotorsportsmedia.com. Lap sponsorships and marketing opportunities remain available by contacting Brett Deyo at 845.728.2781 or via e-mail: Deyo99H@aol.com.
Crate 602 Sportsman in a 25-lap event paying $1,000 to the winner join the Modifieds in a doubleheader. The popular open-wheel division is a first-time addition to the 'Clash' event.
On Tuesday, June 11, Penn Can gates will open at 5 p.m. with hot laps at 6:45 p.m. and racing at 7:30 p.m.
Adult grandstand admission is $22 for Adults, $20 for Seniors (ages 62 and up), $10 for Students (Ages 13-17) and Kids 12 and under are FREE. Pit admission is $30
with any track or series license and $35 without a track or series license.
Despite the purse boost and addition of Crate 602 Sportsman, prices did not increase from 2012!
Modified racers are reminded there is a Race of Champions pre-entry fee of $15 in advance or $20 on race night. Entry forms are available online at www.rocdirt.com or
www.bdmotorsportsmedia.com.
Complete race information is on the web at www.bdmotorsportsmedia.com.
In its four-year history, the 'Clash at the Can' has emerged as a marquee event on the dirt Modified calendar. Last year, Danny Johnson of Rochester, N.Y., drove to
victory over a charging Ryan Godown, who had ascended from 26th starting position in Rick Clay's No. 88c.
The '11 edition featured a classic duel between dirt Modified superstar Billy Decker and then unheralded Accord (N.Y.) Speedway regular Danny Tyler. Decker, of
Unadilla, N.Y., ultimately completed a late-race pass of Cottekill, N.Y.’s Tyler to park his John and Laura Wight-owned LJL Racing No. 91 in Victory Lane. The win was
special for Decker who launched his career at Penn Can in the 'Tiger' division.
Grandview (Pa.) Speedway regular Duane Howard of Oley, Pa., emerged from a side-by-side battle with local driver Brett Tonkin of Carbondale, Pa., to win the inaugural 'Clash at the Can' in '10.
BD Motorsports Media LLC returns to Penn Can in October to co-promote the 'King of the Can' 14th annual Modified event on Friday, Oct. 18, headlined by a 50-lap main
paying $5,014 to win and $314 to take the green flag. Crate 602 Sportsman and Street Stocks complete the Friday card, which carries a Sunday (Oct. 20) rain date.
To learn more about the 'Clash at the Can' and other BD Motorsports Media LLC promotions, contact Brett Deyo by phone at 845.728.2781 or via e-mail at Deyo99H@aol.com.
BD Motorsports Media is on the web at www.bdmotorsportsmedia.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bdmotorsportsmedia and on Twitter @BrettDeyo.
BD Motorsports Media LLC Co-Promotion Penn Can Speedway History
October 12, 2012 (King of the Can 50 laps) - RYAN GODOWN - Danny Johnson - Joey Grammes - Billy Decker - Stewart Friesen
June 13, 2012 (Clash at the Can RoC 60 laps) - DANNY JOHNSON - Ryan Godown - Jeff Strunk - Billy Pauch Sr. - Ryan Watt
November 13, 2011 (King of the Can 50 laps) - STEWART FRIESEN - Jeff Strunk - Pat Ward - Jimmy Phelps - Justin Holland
June 7, 2011 (Clash at the Can RoC 60 laps) - BILLY DECKER - Danny Tyler - Jimmy Phelps - Duane Howard - Matt Sheppard
August 10, 2010 - (Hot Summer Night RoC 60 laps) - STEWART FRIESEN - Alan Rudalavage - Duane Howard - Bobby Varin - Joey Grammes
June 8, 2010 (Clash at the Can RoC 60 laps) - DUANE HOWARD - Danny Johnson - Stewart Friesen - Brett Tonkin - Ryan Godown
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DIRTcar Stars of Then and Now Descend on Rolling Wheels Raceway for Hall of Fame 60
Tickets Purchased Early for Wednesday, June 5, Event include FREE Fan Pit Pass
ELBRIDGE, N. Y. - The biggest stars and cars will be on hand at Rolling Wheels Raceway Park Wednesday, June 5, for the first 2013 points race of the Super DIRTcar Series, the Hall of Fame 60.
Formerly "All-Star Weekend," the Hall of Fame 60 moves to Wednesday night for a mid-week classic, making room for a special primetime Dirt Motorsports Hall of Fame induction ceremony to begin 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 4.
After winning All-Star Weekend events in 2010, 2011 and 2012, Big-Block Modified star Matt Sheppard, of Waterloo, N. Y., steered his 9s to three consecutive Super DIRTcar Series Championships. His performance was stellar at "The Fast Track" in 2012, but with strong competitors such as Brett Hearn and Stewart Friesen - both multiple-time winners of the VP Small Engine Fuels 200 during NAPA Auto Parts Super DIRT Week - hoping to challenge him in June, Sheppard will have his work cut out for him.
"With such stout competition going into the first race of the Super DIRTcar Series points battle, there's no telling which driver will cross the finish line first. All we can say for sure is that, when it comes to seeing action-packed racing, the fans always win at Rolling Wheels," said Rolling Wheels General Manager Jeff Hachmann. "The best DIRTcar racers are gearing up to spend Wednesday at the Wheels for the Hall of Fame 60, and fans have the opportunity to meet them. Not only will the Hall of Fame inductees be present that night to meet fans and sign autographs, but those who act early can enter the competitor pits and meet the night's racers at no extra cost."
Rolling Wheels Raceway Park continues to offer a FREE Fan Pit Pass with any ticket purchased early. Attendees can redeem their FREE Fan Pit Pass for a wristband after grandstand gates open at 5 p.m. and enter the pits at any time during the night. Additionally, this family-friendly event offers discounts for kids under 17, and children 9 and under are always FREE in general admission sections at Rolling Wheels.
Joining the Super DIRTcar Series on "The Fast Track" are the Midstate Vintage Stock Car Club and the DIRTcar Sportsman Modified Series for it's second feature after the Sunday, June 2, Cornwall opener.
Adult general admission tickets are just $25, with general admission student tickets available for kids 10 to 17 available for just $10. General admission for children 9 and under is FREE! Reserved seats are also available at $29 each, regardless of patron age. Both general admission and reserved seat tickets, with the exception of FREE children's tickets, are available for advance sale by visiting www.dirtcar.com/tickets or by calling the ticket hotline, (877) 395-8606. General admission tickets for children 9 and younger must be obtained at the Rolling Wheels Raceway gate the day of the event.
The Hall of Fame induction ceremony begins at 7 p.m. the night before, Tuesday, June 4, at the Dirt Motorsports Hall of Fame and Classic Car Museum in Weedsport, N. Y. For more information about the Hall of Fame and this year's inductees, visit www.dirthalloffame-classiccarmuseum.com.
Racing in celebration of the new inductees is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 5, at Rolling Wheels Raceway Park. Grandstand gates open at 5 p.m. and competitor pits at 3 p.m. For more information about the Hall of Fame 60, visit www.rollingwheelsraceway.com.
AT A GLANCE
Hall of Fame 60 race night at Rolling Wheels Raceway Park
What: Hall of Fame 60
Who: Super DIRTcar Series Big-Block Modifieds
DIRTcar Sportsman Modified Series
Midstate Vintage Stock Car Club
When: 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 5
Where: Rolling Wheels Raceway Park at 8310 Grant Avenue Rd. (N. Y. State Route 5), Elbridge, N. Y.
Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at Dirt Motorsports Hall of Fame and Classic Car Museum
What: Induction of 2013 class into Dirt Motorsports Hall of Fame and Classic Car Museum
Who: 2013 inductees and honorees, including drivers Frank Cozze, Mike McLaughlin and Blackie Watt; the Petrocci family and Rolling Wheels Raceway Park founder Robert N. Petrocci; crew team of Milt Johnson and Bruce Fleischman, the B&M Speed Shop; car owner George Smith, Sr.; Marsha Wetmore; Jane Doust; and Wendy Kennedy
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 4
Where: Dirt Motorsports Hall of Fame and Classic Car Museum, adjacent to Cayuga County Fairgrounds at 1 Speedway Dr., Weedsport, N. Y.
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"STEEL VALLEY THUNDER" ON SPEED ENERGY DRINK NIGHT SATURDAY AT SHARON; MOMS ADMITTED FOR $7
By Mike Leone
Hartford, OH May 11, 2013 Sharon Speedway will look to string together another night of "Steel Valley Thunder" racing this Saturday night, May 11 on Speed Energy Night. It'll be a six-division program of Governor Insurance Agency DIRTcar Big-Block Modifieds, Barris Supply RUSH Late Models, Summit Racing Equipment Modifieds, Gibson Insurance Agency Stock Cars, HTMA/Precise Racing Products Econo Mods, and the Deforest Used Parts Mini Stocks. Racing begins at 7 p.m.
With Saturday being Mother's Day Eve, Sharon will honor all moms with just $7 general admission! If you're not a mom, bring a Speed Energy can to the gates Saturday and receive $3 off admission! Once again Saturday night, one lucky boy and girl under the age of 14 will win a bicycle or scooter thanks to King Bros. This promotion will continue throughout the 2013 season. The home-cooked kitchen special is country fried steak with mashed potatoes and vegetable.
It's been good to see solid car counts in the DIRTcar Big-Block Modifieds early in the season as there have been at least 18 cars each night. The competition has been strong. Jim Weller, Jr. put an end to the King dominance in the first two weeks and ended his own personal winless drought dating back nearly three years! Also look for Jimmy Weller III to be in action on Saturday night as he'll try to do for the Weller Family what the Kings did the first two weeks. Weller, Jr. currently has a nine point lead on Rex King, while New Yorker Ricky Richner has climbed into the third spot in the Governor Insurance Agency Points.
Dennis Lunger, Jr. has laid the gauntlet down that he's going to be the driver to beat in the Barris Supply RUSH Late Models. After winning the final show of 2012, Lunger kept his momentum as he's been hot out of the box winning two of the first three shows. Not only is he leading the Sharon points by 11 over Eric Wilson, but he's gaining valuable points towards the $5,000 to-win Sweeney Chevrolet Buick GMC Weekly Series Champion points and on his way to being eligible for the $3,000 to-win Pace Performance "Summer Chase".
Pits open at 4 p.m. Saturday with grandstands at 5 and heat races slated for 7. Grandstand admission for those 14 and over without one of the special discounts is $13, while children under 14 are always free. Pit passes are $25. Parking and camping is always free.
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$5,000 ON THE LINE FOR THE MODIFIED WINNER THIS SUNDAY AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY
VERNON, NY- This Sunday, May 12, at the Utica-Rome Speedway is the annual Mothers Day special which this year features a 50 lap Modified contest that will see the winner take home a $5,000 payday. Also in competition will be the weekly Sportsman, Pro Stocks, and Pure Stock division which will all compete in regular events. Gates open at 3:30 p.m. with racing at 6 p.m.
Started in the mid 90’s by the late Alex Friesen, Utica-Rome Speedway has hosted a special event on Mother’s Day since in many different forms. Originally started as Big Block/Small Block shootout, the event has transformed to a Super DIRT 358-Modified Series event, a Race of Champions Modified Series event, and now its current 50 lap, $5,000 to win format. One thing that has not changed however is the caliber of drivers that descend on to the Vernon oval to try and take the big money that is up for grabs. Besides the stellar weekly field of drivers that compete weekly, including Stewart Friesen, Pat Ward, Ronnie Johnson, Matt Sheppard, Alan Johnson, Larry Wight, Willy Decker, Ryan Phelps, Dale Planck, Mike Mahaney, Todd Burley, and more, there should be a large amount of invaders on hand as well. Brett Hearn has the event penciled in on his calendar and should be joined by the likes of Billy Decker, Bobby Varin, Jimmy Phelps, and many more as many of the region’s top stars look to take the big paycheck home. So far in 2013, Ronnie Johnson, Ryan Phelps, and Todd Burley have each earned victories.
The format is simple; it will be a draw as drivers enter the pits for heats with a redraw for the top finishers in the heat and the rules are run under the weekly Utica-Rome Speedway rules package and this is not a sail panel event. Full track points will be awarded.
The racing in the support divisions has been as intense as the headlining Modified division and in the Sportsman; there has been three different winners in the three events completed so far. Claude Hutchings, Jr., Steve Way, and Heath Carney have all grab checkered flags so far but it is defending champion Matt Janczuk again at the top of the standings.
Like the Modifieds and Sportsman, the Pro Stocks have seen three different drivers in victory with Tom Denton, Shawn Frost, and Ed Ostrander all standing on the front stretch celebrating victory so far. Denton is atop the standings again as he looks to defend his title with a four way tie for second in the standings. Pete Stefanski, Bret Belden, Chris Carr, and Glenn Forward are tied for the runner-up spot, just eight points behind Denton.
Ricky Breed is the only repeat winner this year at the speedway this year and that has come from his two Pure Stock victories. The two wins have given him the point lead in the extremely competitive division; Ron Hawker has the other win in the Pure Stocks so far this season.
For more information, please log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com or call the speedway office at (315)829-4557.
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Incentives Adding Up For First ‘Dirty Jersey 60’ Super DIRTcar Series Event Tuesday, June 18 At New Egypt Speedway; Teo-Pro Car Sets $600 Halfway Modified Bonus; VP Racing Fuels On Board For ‘Turnpike 25’ Sportsman Winner
NEW EGYPT, NJ – The incentives for competitors to be part of the first Pioneer Pole Buildings Inc. ‘Dirty Jersey 60’ continue to accumulate.
As the countdown continues to the return of Super DIRTcar Series big-block Modifieds to New Egypt Speedway on Tuesday, June 18 (rain date: June 19), contingency award sponsors are joining the event presented by dirt Modified star Stewart Friesen and special events promoter Brett Deyo under the Friesen-Deyo Promotions banner.
Teo-Pro Car of Sussex, N.J., has signed on as the halfway bonus sponsor for the ‘Dirty Jersey 60’ big-block Modified event. The first car across the line at lap 30 outfitted with a Teo-Pro sticker will receive a product certificate worth $600. The car does not need to be a Teo-built car. Stickers will be available at the speedway on race day.
“This is shaping up to be one of the biggest events in Modified racing in 2013,” Teo-Pro representative Matt Hearn said. “It’s definitely an event we wanted to be a part of. It should be one of the most talented fields of Modifieds you will see at any race this year.”
Teo-Pro Car is on the web at www.teopro.com and can be reached by phone at 973.764.5500.
For racers in the ‘Turnpike 25’ for Open vs. Crate Sportsman, there is a lucrative incentive in place for the race winner courtesy of VP Racing Fuels. The victor will receive a drum of VP Racing Fuels in addition to the base $750 first-place prize and lap money. Learn more about VP Racing Fuels online at www.vpracingfuels.com.
Competitors in both the Modified and Sportsman divisions are eligible for lap money. Laps are on sale for $25 per lap (Modified) and $20 per lap (Sportsman). To reserve a lap, contact Brett Deyo at Deyo99H@aol.com or by phone at 845.728.2781.
Two laps have been set aside in the ‘Dirty Jersey 60’ to honor members of the racing community lost during the off-season. Lap 52 in the Modified event honors Stan Friesen, the late patriarch of the family who was a successful driver and promoter. For each feature his grandson, event co-promoter Stewart Friesen, wins prior to June 18, $10 will be added to the lap.
On lap 60, the sixth-place driver will take home $60 cash in honor of the late Doug Hoffman, a winner of 482 features on dirt and pavement and eventually a track promoter before his untimely passing in December 2012.
The ‘Dirty Jersey 60’ Modified program also ends a long absence for the Northeast’s premier dirt Modified touring series at New Egypt. The most recent Super DIRTcar Series stop at the Garden State facility was Oct. 13, 2007 with Twins 50s won by Keith Hoffman of Whitehall, Pa., and Matt Sheppard of Waterloo, N.Y. A total of 12 Super DIRTcar Series events have been contested at NES: the first June 18, 1998 through the aforementioned ’07 date.
A massive $27,500 purse has been posted for the event with a minimum of $6,000 earmarked for the winner. Joining the big-block Modifieds on the program is the first ‘Turnpike 25’ featuring Open vs. Crate Sportsman vying for a minimum top prize of $750.
Rules and event information have been posted on the ‘Dirty Jersey 60’ website at www.bdmotorsportsmedia.com outlining prices, a complete time schedule, specs for both divisions and more.
Marketing opportunities remain for the ‘Dirty Jersey 60’ inaugural event. Lap sponsorships are on sale for the Modifieds ($25 per lap) and Sportsman ($20 per lap). To inquire about lap or bonus award sponsorships, contact Brett Deyo at Deyo99H@aol.com or by phone: 845.728.2781.
For the ‘Dirty Jersey 60’ pit gates will unlock at 4 p.m. Spectator gates open at 5 p.m. Hot laps are planned for 6:45 p.m. and Modified qualifying begins at 7:15 p.m. A rain date for Wednesday, June 19 has been established.
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Competition Fierce as Super DIRTcar Series Points Battle Nears
Friesen, Varin, Hearn among those challenging Sheppard's Modified supremacy
WEEDSPORT, N.Y. - May 3, 2013 -After winning an unprecedented three consecutive Super DIRTcar Series championships, Matt Sheppard clearly has established himself as the Big-Block Modified driver to beat. Sheppard, though, will have his hands full when the 2013 season opens with the Hall of Fame 60 on Wednesday, June 5, at Rolling Wheels Raceway Park in Elbridge, N.Y.
The best in the business will be racing to unseat "Super Matt" from his championship throne. Drivers like Hearn, Friesen and Phelps will be have a target on Sheppard's No. 9s FX Caprara Car Co./Xtreme Lubricants/Bicknell.
Here are some of the superstars attempting to capture the 2013 Super DIRTcar Series crown:
Brett Hearn: Close Call
Brett Hearn, of Sussex, N.J., fell short of Sheppard by just 45 points last year, even after missing two tour races because of illness. The Madsen Motorsports/B.H. Racing Enterprises No. 20 driver claimed some of the most impressive victories, flying from a 23rd starting spot for the win at Lebanon Valley Speedway's Mr. DIRT Track U.S.A., staying strong for the victory in Orange County Fair Speedway's Eastern States 200, winning the coveted VP Small Engine Fuels 200 trophy during NAPA Auto Parts Super DIRT Week, and wrapping it up with a victory during the World Finals in Charlotte.
Hearn started off the 2013 season strong, with a victory at the Super DIRTcar Series Florida Tour finale during UNOH DIRTcar Nationals presented by Summit Racing Equipment, giving him momentum going into the first points race of the seriesJune 5at Rolling Wheels Raceway Park.
Stewart Friesen: Bonus Points
Stewart Friesen, another strong title contender, demonstrated his skill numerous times on Syracuse's "Moody Mile" at the New York State Fairgrounds, but his lack of home track points kept him from scoring a high rank in the series. This year, the native of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, added Albany-Saratoga Speedway to his weekly schedule, qualifying him for those integral home track bonus points.
"Hopefully we seat ourselves well with the home track points at Albany-Saratoga and can put some stuff together to hit the whole (Super DIRTcar) Series," said Friesen, who in 2010 became the first Canadian to win the NAPA Auto Parts Super DIRT Week Big-Block Modified championship race.
In addition to adopting a DIRTcar sanctioned home track in 2013, Friesen is teaming up with Brett Deyo, of BD Motorsports Media, to promote a Super DIRTcar Series race. The Pioneer Pole Buildings Inc. "Dirty Jersey 60" brings the Big-Block Modified tour to New Egypt (N.J.) Speedway on Wednesday, June 19.
"Brett Deyo is a great friend of mine and we talked a little at the end of the 2012 season about getting together and promoting a race. We were going to do it, and we both knew that New Egypt Speedway in New Jersey would be a great location," Friesen said. "It's a premier facility and we didn't have to think twice about who we were going to bring for an event. We wanted to bring the premier modified organization, and that's DIRTcar."
Due to the event's location, Friesen expects the "Dirty Jersey 60" to match the best of the Northeast and Canada with some of the most talented drivers in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and some of the other mid-Atlantic states.
"Billy Pauch, Jimmy Horton, Ryan Godown- a lot of the big names down there - don't necessarily make it to all the series events, so it's something that's going to be kind of an all-star event," Friesen said. "The SuperDIRTcarSeries brings a lot of the northern guys, a lot of Canandiagua guys, who have never been to New Egypt. It's going to be the best race of the summer."
Bobby Varin: Ready to Travel
Bobby Varin, winner at last year's The Big Show 4 at Albany-Saratoga Speedway, may also have some tricks up his sleeve for the 2013 season. With more help preparing race cars, Varin said he will have more time to travel hopes to compete in most of the Super DIRTcar Series races.
"We're going to try and hit those shows as often as we can," said Varin, who plans on towing the No. 00 and the Atlas Paving 66 to Super DIRTcar Series shows. "We've always been fairly competitive when we show up to these events and we've got a number of Super DIRT Series wins, so I feel pretty confident that we can compete."
Like Friesen, Varin did not have the opportunity to pick up home track bonus points in 2012. This year, however, his points from Orange County Fair Speedway stand to put him in contention for top spots. Add in Varin's demonstrated strength in long-distance races, and both Sheppard and Hearn will have their work cut out staying ahead.
"I feel fairly confident that we'll be in good shape for the extra-distance races,"Varin said. "It gives you a chance to get in the car, shake the car out, get a good feel for what's going on, then adjust as a driver, and see what you can come up with at the end of the night."
Pete Britten: Confident after Success "Down Under"
Australian Pete Britten barely took time off this winter, claiming two dirt modified wins in his home country. His confidence showed in February's UNOH DIRTcar Nationals presented by Summit Racing Equipment when Britten finished third in the first Super DIRTcar Series feature race.
"I think we're at the point where things are taking a bit of a turn. I honestly don't see a reason why we can't be challenging for wins every night of the week," said Britten, who finished third in points last year but is still working toward his first Super DIRTcar Series win. "These guys better look out because I'm really confident as a driver, and I'm confident in my equipment, and when you put those two together you'll be good."
Jimmy Phelps: Clean Slate
Jimmy Phelps, who was within shouting distance of the championship up until the very end of the 2012 season, aims at improving some of his weak spots early this long before his November haul to North Carolina for World Finals in Charlotte.
"Any time you've got a clean slate and a fresh shot at trying to make a new season out of it, it's exciting," said Phelps, of Baldwinsville, N.Y., who finished third in points last year."As usual, we've got the tools to get it done, we just have to make sure that we start running a little better at certain tracks and we've got our shot come Charlotte. We just have to get a little better and eliminate some of the mediocre finishes that really hurt us. You don't really notice them until you get to the end of the year and you're digging and clawing for 30 points that you left on the table further back. The next thing is to try and build some consistency and win some races and everything should fall into place."
Justin Haers: Building Up for a Win
Justin Haers, of Phelps, N.Y., came close to a win at UNOH DIRTcar Nationals presented by Summit Racing Equipment, and said his program is strong enough going into the 2013 season to get even closer.
"Each year we just keep building on our program, and we keep getting better and better, and that's all you can ask for," said Haers, who finished fourth in points last year.
Matt Sheppard: Keeping It Together
With increasing competition in this year's Super DIRTcar Series point battle, Sheppard said his team has what it takes for another successful season -"a lot of hard work, a good motor program, a great car."
"You have to have your whole program together, and, basically, you really have to keep it together,"said Sheppard, of Waterloo, N.Y. "I think our program is a little better, but it's too early to see."
He'll set his sights on a fourth consecutive championship on Wednesday, June 5, at Rolling Wheels.
Danny Johnson: The Doctor Is In
Danny Johnson, of Rochester, N.Y., finished fifth in points in 2012 and continues to run with Canandaigua Motorsports Park as his home track in 2013. Rich Scagliotta, eighth in points last year, continues to travel with Britten to Super DIRTcar Series events.
Rob Bellinger: Star on the Rise
Rob Bellinger, of Dexter, N.Y.,was ninth in points in 2012, and is especially looking forward to running the big shows, such as the Hall of Fame 60 at Rolling Wheels Raceway Park and the VP Small Engine Fuels 200 during NAPA Auto Parts Super DIRT Week.
2013 Super DIRTcar Series: Potential Driver Entry List
(Entry list also available at www.superdirtcarseries.com/drivers/746-2013-potential-driver-entry-list. No. Driver Home Town Home Track
0 Dan Humes Cannan, Conn. Lebanon Valley
1h Tim Hindley Monticello, N. Y. Orange County
1Jr Stewart Friesen Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario Albany-Saratoga
1Jr Jason Herrington Troy, N. Y. Lebanon Valley
1ny Greg Atkins Keeseville, N. Y. Airborne
1 Darwin Greene Susquehanna, Penn.
1 David Hebert St-Danase, Quebec Granby
1 Chris Raabe Napanee, Ontario Mohawk Int'l
2RJ Ronnie Johnson Duanesburg, N. Y. Albany Saratoga
3a Kevin Albert Lebanon, Penn
3b Chad Brachmann Sanborn, N. Y. Ransomville
3d Matt Delorenzo Cropseyville, N. Y. Albany Saratoga
3e Eric Gabany Mercer, Penn. Lernerville
3J Marc Johnson Guilderland, N. Y. Albany Saratoga
3M Henry Maier Spencerport, N. Y.
3 Mark Frankhouser Altoona, Penn. Lernerville
3 Justin Haers Phelps, N. Y. Canandaigua
3 Mark Kislowski Ballston Lake, N. Y. Albany Saratoga
4* Tim McCreadie Watertown, N. Y.
4J Shane Pecore St. Andrews West, Ontario
4k Jasmin Leveillee Prevost, Quebec
4 Daryl Hilkert Canandaigua, N. Y. Canandaigua
5* Tyler Siri Watkins Glen, N. Y. Canandaigua
5 Jimmy Horton Neshanic Station, N. J.
6m Mat Williamson St. Catherines, Ontario - Canada Merrittville
6ny Kevin Bates Lake Ariel, Penn.
6x Jackie Brown Hurley, N. Y. Orange County
6 Brandon Easey St. Catharines, Ontario
6 Carl Murdick Butler, Penn. Sharon
6 Pat O'Brien Kingston, Ontario
7x Steve Paine Waterloo, N.Y. Canandaigua
7 Tim Kerr Picton, Ontario
7 Rick Laubach Quakertown, Pennsylvania
7 Don Ronca Clifton Park, N. Y. Albany Saratoga
007 Roy Tarbell Hogansburg, N. Y. Mohawk Int'l
8J Dean Pearson Harrisville, Penn. Sharon
8R Rob Bellinger Dexter, N. Y. Canandaigua
8 Jimmy Cottrell II Rock City Falls, NY Albany Saratoga
8 Rich Scagliotta Hillsborough, N. J. Canandaigua
9s Matt Sheppard Waterloo, N. Y Canandaigua
10J Alan Johnson Middlesex, N. Y. Canandaigua
10s Dylan Scribner East Greenbush, N. Y. Lebanon Valley
10 Tim Currier Auburn, N. Y. Canandaigua
10 Rich Eurich Warwick, N. Y. Orange County
10 Patrick McGrail Candiac, Quebec Airborne
11a Kyle Armstrong New Milford, Conn. Lebanon Valley
12 Chad Chevalier Port Colborne, Ontario
13s Toney Steiner Jamesville, N. Y.
14a Brian Swarthout Beaver Dams, N. Y.
14e Rich Eurich Warwick, N. Y. Orange County
14x Don Scarborough Brandon, Vt. Albany-Saratoga
14 C. G. Morey Rutland, Vt. Albany Saratoga
15J Tim Jones Sanborn, N. Y.
16 Kyle Hoffman Averill Park, N. Y. Lebanon Valley
16 Gage Morin St. Andrews West, Ontario
16 Lance Willix II Theresa, N. Y.
17c Chris Steele Fenwick, Ontario
17d Danny O'Brien Inverary, Ontario
17 Marcus Dinkins Montour Falls, N. Y. Canandaigua
17 Rob Pitcher Lebanon Valley
17 Elmo Reckner Ballston Lake, N. Y. Albany Saratoga
17 Marc Therrien Williamstown, Ontario
18 Neil Stratton North Bennington, Vt. Albany Saratoga
19w Justin Wright Piffard, N. Y. Canandaigua
20Q Matt Quinn Lebanon Valley
20 Brett Hearn Sussex, N. J. Albany/LVS
21a Pete Britten Spencerport, N. Y./Brisbaine, Queensland, Australia Albany/Canandaigua
21J Jeff Trombley Altamont, N. Y. Albany Saratoga
21K Randy Chrysler Lewiston, N. Y.
21m Bob McGannon Garnerville, N. Y. Orange County
T21 Roger Chrysler Lewiston, N. Y.
21 Yan Bussiere Drummondville, Quebec
21 Derrick Podsiadlio Penn Yan, N. Y. Canandaigua
22c Mario Clair Drummondville, Quebec
22j Gino Clair St-Germain, Quebec
22J Jeremy Wilder Fort Plain, N. Y. Albany-Saratoga
22 Larry Lampman, Jr. Port Colborne, Ontario
22 Gil Tegg, Jr. Rochester, N. Y. Canandaigua
23b Danny Bilodeau Victoriaville, Quebec
23 Laurent Ladouceur Alexandria, Ontario Mohawk Int'l
23 Billy VanInwegen Sparrowbush, N. Y. Orange County
24dc Devin Caron Cornwall, Ontario
24 Patrick Dupree Saranac Lake, N. Y. Airborne
24 Chris Shultz Pawling, N. Y. Orange County
25 Bobby Herrington Kingston, Ontario
25 Mike Kolka Circleville, N. Y. Orange County
26 Rick Richner Niagara Falls, N. Y.
27J Danny Johnson Rochester, N. Y. Canandaigua
27R Dave Reges Butler, Penn. Lernerville
37 Jusin Barber Gansevoort, N. Y. Albany Saratoga
28P Eldon Payne, Jr. Hopewell, N. Y. Canandaigua
28 Todd Gordon Thorold, Ontario
29 Chris Ostrowsky Conklin, N. Y.
31 Jim Weller, Jr. Hubbard, Ohio Sharon
32c Vic Coffey Caledonia, N. Y. Canandaigua
33 John Lieto Mount Kisco, N. Y. Orange County
33 Tommy Meier Walkwick, N. J. Orange County
34b Andy Bachetti Great Barrington, Mass. Lebanon Valley
35 Mike Perrotte Elizabethtown, N. Y. Albany Saratoga
37md Jeramiah Shingledecker Polk, Penn. Lernerville
37s Kenny Cosgrove Allanburg, Ontario
37 Paul St-Sauveur La Presentation, Quebec
38 Luke Whitteker Iroquois, Ontario
38 Scott Wood Thorold, Ontario
39 Dustin Delaney Mayfield, N. Y. Albany Saratoga
39 Clément Therrien Victoriaville, Quebec
40 Joel Doiron Alexandria, Ontario
41 Chris Busta Ballston Lake, N. Y. Albany Saratoga
42P Matt Pupello East Greenbush, N. Y. Lebanon Valley
42P Pat Ward Genoa, N. Y.
42 Pete Bicknell St. Catharines, Ontario Merrittville
43 Keith Flach Ravena, N. Y. Albany/LVS
44 Sébastien Gougeon Drummondville, Quebec
45J Wayne Jelley Pittsfield, Mass. Lebanon Valley
45 Steve Feder Butler, Penn. Lernerville
46 Kayle Robidoux St. Constant, Quebec
48Too Dave Rauscher Waterloo, N. Y. Canandaigua
49 François Bernier Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec
49 Billy Dunn Watertown, N. Y. Canandaigua
54 Steve Bernard Granby, Quebec
55k Mike King Nassau, N. Y. Lebanon Valley
55 Dexter Stacey Kahnawake, Quebec
56 Vince Vitale Phoenix, N. Y. Canandaigua
57 Colton Chappius Holly, N. Y.
57 Donnie Corellis Averill Park, N. Y. Lebanon Valley
60 Brian Berger Castleton, N. Y. Lebanon Valley
61 Dave Murdick Slippery Rock, Penn. Sharon
62s Tom Sears, Jr. Clay, N. Y.
63 Dominic Dufault Ste-Victoire de Sorel, Quebec
65 Rex King Bristolville, Ohio Sharon
66w Wallace Stacey Kahnawake, Quebec
66x Carey Terrance Hogansburg, N. Y. Mohawk Int'l
66 Kyle Dingwall South Dundas, Ontario
66 Billy Pauch, Jr. Frenchtown, N. J.
67 Dave Small Port Colborne, Ontario
69 Tom Mattocks Grove City, Penn. Sharon
71 Mike Bowman St. Catharines, Ontario
71 Delbert LeGrow Massena, N. Y.
72 Tommy Flannigan Port Robinson, Ontario
73Jr Mathieu Boivert Doraval, Quebec
73 Alain Boisvert Lachine, Quebec
74F Tim Fuller Watertown, N. Y.
74 Matt Billings Brockville, Ontario
76 Travis Braun St. Catharines, Ontario
77F Mark Flach, Jr. Selkirk, N. Y. Lebanon Valley
77x Dale Planck Cortland, N. Y.
83x Tim Sears, Jr. Clay, N. Y.
83 Brian Swartzlander Natrona Heights, Penn. Lernerville
84 Gary Tomkins Clifton Springs, N. Y. Canandaigua
85 Jim Davis Ballston Spa, N. Y.
87 Hector Stratton Bennington, Vt. Albany Saratoga
88 Dave Allen Palmyra, N. Y. Canandaigua
88 Shawn Fleeger Butler, Penn. Lernerville
88 Tim O'Brien Kingston, Ontario
88 Shayne Pierce Welland, Ontario
89b Todd Burley Spencerport, N. Y. Ransomville
91 Billy Decker Sidney, N. Y.
91 Chad Homan Macedon, N. Y. Canandaigua
93x Craig Mitchell Poughkeepsie, N. Y. Orange County
96b Bob Warren Slippery Rock, Penn. Sharon
96 Fred Carlton Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
96 Mike Turner Butler, Penn. Lernerville
97 Michel Chicoine Ste-Cecile De Milton, Quebec
97 Jerry Higbie Middletown, N. Y. Orange County
97 Bobby Varin Johnstown, N. Y. Orange County
98H Jimmy Phelps Baldwinsville, N. Y. Canandaigua
98s Kolby Schroder Poughkeepsie, N. Y. Lebanon Valley
98 Eddie Marshall Ridgefield, Conn. Lebanon Valley
99L Larry Wight Baldwinsville, N. Y.
99 Bruno Lepage Maple Grove, Quebec
101 Jimmy Burns Delanson, N. Y. Lebanon Valley
108 Bill Bleich Port Robinson, Ontario
115 Stephane LaFrance St. Albert, Ontario
115 Kenny Tremont, Jr. West Sand Lake, N. Y. Albany Saratoga
151 Brian McDonald Conwall, Ontario Mohawk Int'l
165 Rex King, Jr. Bristolville, Ohio Sharon
172 Andre Gauthier Granby, Quebec
188 David Papinea Akwesasne, Ontario Mohawk Int'l
323 Neal Williams Pittsgrove, N. J.
667 Matt Depew Argyle, N. Y. Albany Saratoga
747 Ryan Godown Ringoes, N. J.
777 Kevin Bolland New Brighton, Penn. Lernerville
816 Jeff Rockefeller Scotia, N. Y.
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TODD BURLEY HOLDS OFF ALL CHALLENGES TO TAKE MODIFIED WIN THIS PAST SUNDAY AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY
VERNON, NY- Another beautiful day greeted the fans at Utica-Rome Speedway this past Sunday evening, May 5, and they were once again treated to another exciting night of racing action on Williams Tire & Auto night. Todd Burley was able to hold off the late race challenges of Matt Sheppard and Stewart Friesen to score his first win of the 2013 season while Heath Carney dominated the Sportsman feature for the win. Ed Ostrander survived a late race caution to take career win number one in the Pro Stocks while Ricky Breed took another win in the Pure Stocks.
Darwin Greene and Matt Hulsizer led the 27 car strong Modified down the green flag at the start of the 30 lap Modified with Hulsizer gaining the early advantage. Hulsizer looked strong early, but he was unable to hold off the advance of ninth place starter Todd Burley. Burley, using the extreme bottom groove of the speedway, slipped underneath Hulsizer to take the lead on lap seven. Another driver on the move early was Matt Sheppard, after starting 15th, was up to second on lap eight as he was also able to get by Hulsizer. With 10 circuits complete, it was Burley, Sheppard, Hulsizer, Mike Bowman, and Willy Decker in the top five spots setting the pace.
The leaders enter lapped traffic on lap 15, giving Sheppard a chance to close in on Burley but he was unable to complete the pass. As Sheppard continued his pursuit of Burley, Willy Decker and Stewart Friesen were putting on a crowd pleasing battle for third as they battle back and forth for the position. As lap 20 was scored, it was still Burley with Sheppard chasing and Decker, Friesen and Pat Ward trailing.
Friesen was able to slip by Decker for third on lap 21 to begin his chase of the top two, which was made easier when the only caution of the event flew on lap 22. With the field now on his back bumper, Burley was still able to hold off the challenges of Sheppard, and then Friesen, by refusing to leave the bottom lane. Friesen and Sheppard waged an intense battle for the runner-up spot as the laps wound down and at the checkered it was Burley scoring the win with Sheppard nipping Friesen at the line for second. Decker and Ward rounded out the top five with the rest of the top ten spots going to Mike Mahaney, Larry Wight, Ryan Phelps, Dale Planck, and Jimmy Davis. The was Burley’s 32nd career win at Utica-Rome Speedway, tying him with Lou Lazzaro on the all time win list.
Robert Barker led the opening lap of the Sportsman 20 lap feature from his pole starting spot but after that, it was all Heath Carney. Carney, from his sixth spot, raced by for the lead as the second lap was being scored and was dominant for the rest of the green to checkered event. As he pulled away to comfortable margin, the battle on the track was for second as Mike Stiles held it early with Jeremy Vunk putting on the pressure for the position. Vunk was finally able to wrestle the position away from Stiles on lap 13 with Matt Janczuk following him through for third. For the rest of the event, Vunk and Janczuk battled for the runner-up position with Janczuk slipping by for the spot with two laps to go. Carney was too far out front at this point as he took his first win of the season with Janczuk, Vunk, AJ Filbeck, and Stiles rounding out the top five.
Ed Ostrander launched from his third starting spot to the lead at the drop of the green in the Pro Stock 20 lap feature event as he was searching for his first ever win. Early on, it was Mark Effner taking shots at getting around Ostrander for the lead and then in the later stages it was Glenn Forward going attempting to get by. Despite a caution with a lap to go, Forward was unable to pass Ostrander for the lead as Ostrander raced off with the win. Forward, Chris Carr, Bret Belden, and Tom Denton filled out the top five spots at the checkered flag.
Ricky Breed won his second consecutive 15 lap Pure Stock main event, this time he passed early leader Bill Mason on lap eight and went unchallenged the rest of the way. Nathan Peckham made a late race pass of Mason to score second while Mason survived a back and forth battle with Frank Hyatt to get the third spot at the line. Hyatt settled for the fourth spot with Ron Hawker filling out the top five.
The first big on the 2013 Utica-Rome Speedway is this coming Sunday, May 12, with the annual Mothers Day Special featuring a big 50 lap affair for the Modifieds which will pay the winner $5,000 to win. A regular show of Sportsman, Pro Stocks, and Pure Stocks will join the Modifieds with racing at 6 p.m. The gates will open at 3:30 p.m. with more information available at www.uticaromespeedway.com. The track phone number is (315)829-4557.
MODIFIED FEATURE FINISH (30 LAPS)-TODD BURLEY, Matt Sheppard, Stewart Friesen, Willy Decker, Pat Ward, Mike Mahaney, Larry Wight, Ryan Phelps, Dale Planck, Jimmy Davis, Ronnie Johnson, Robby Bellinger, Matt Fink, Rocky Warner, Casey Williams, Mike Bowman, Jason Rood, Chris Hile, Dave Allen, Mike Ward, Aaron Jacobs, Phil Burkart Jr., Adam Roberts, Alan Johnson, Matt Hulsizer, Darwin Greene, and Jim Walsh.
SPORTSMAN FEATURE FINISH (20 LAPS)-HEATH CARNEY, Matt Janczuk, Jeremy Vunk, AJ Filbeck, Mike Stiles, Chris Mackey, Steve Way, Claude Hutchings Jr., Randy Shantel, Craig Pope, Bobby Heintz, Chad Ray, Jack Miller, Stephen Denton, Robert Barker, Chris McCoy, Brandon Kuhn, and Tye-Scott Rood. DNS-Toby Klish.
PRO STOCK FEATURE FINISH (20 LAPS)-ED OSTRANDER, Glenn Forward, Chris Carr, Bret Belden, Tom Denton, Pete Stefanski, Mark Effner, AJ Digsby, Ken Hamm, Joe Palmer, Corie Locke, Dana Camenga, Dan Lashure, Gus Hollner, Shawn Frost, Jim Money, Andy Lashure. DNS-Bill Knapp
PURE STOCK FEATURE FINISH (15 LAPS)-RICKY BREED, Nathan Peckham, Bill Mason, Frank Hyatt, Ron Hawker, Chris Watkins, Tim Janczuk, Chris Cunningham, Jim Thomas, Andy Sczewczyk, Bryan Owens, Brian Johnson, and Stan Clark.
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Glen Ridge Motorsports Park
Official Finish May 3
Modified Feature (35 Laps) - Bobby Varin, Elmo Reckner, Craig Hanson, Rocky Warner, Richie Price, Bobby Vedder, Jimmy Becker, Bob Savoie, Jeff Sheely, Aaron Jacobs, Eric Stumpf, Brett Graham, Zach Graham.
Sportsman (25 Laps) - Greg Pessolano, Ray Zemken, Brian Pessolano, Tony Farone, John Marsh Jr, Rick LaMont, Harry Shaffer, Korey Wilder, Laudy Hoyenga, Ivan Joslin, Kurtis Hohensheldt, Joe Thorne, Pat Jones, Steve Kline.
Street Stock Feature (20 Laps) – Rob VanAernam, Dave Horning Sr, Jason Samrov, Jon Young, Duke McSpirit.
Lightning Cruisers (15 laps) - Ben Righi, Keith Tesiero Sr., Kerrie Hollenbeck, Keith Tesiero Jr., Bob Ego, Shane Playford.
Rookie Sportsman Feature (15 Laps) – Joe Thorne, Aaron Burton, Bill Fox.
Racesaver Sprint Feature (20 Laps) – Danny Varin, Cory Sparks, Billy Jaycox, Bob Gray, Warren Alexson, Josh Pieniazek, Kyle Smith, R.E. Wade.
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JAMIE MILLS BECOMES THIRD DIFFERENT WINNER IN DELAWARE BIG BLOCKS
By CHARLIE BROWN, DELMAR, DE – Everyone knew it would only be a matter of time before defending NAPA Big Block Modified champion, Jamie Mills would be back in victory lane. After a slow start to the season, Mills was back in top form on Saturday night as he drove to the win in the 25-lap main.
.Jeff Brown started on the pole and grabbed the early lead before some contact shuffled him back in the pack. Matt Jester jumped on top with Beau Wilkins in second. H.J. Bunting was on an early race charge coming from fifth to second by lap two.
Bunting began to challenge Jester from the low groove. Mills, who started in sixth took third from Wilkins just before halfway and one lap later Bunting got by Jester for the lead. Mills battled with Jester until lap sixteen when he was able to garner the spot.
Bunting had a comfortable lead but that was erased when George Richardson came to a stop to bring out the yellow with five to go. On the restart, Bunting was first to the first turn but the car pushed up the turn and Mills shot by on the bottom. Brad Trice, who had been working his way through the top five followed into second as Bunting recovered and locked into a fight with Matt Jester for third.
At the checkered, it was Mills taking the win with Trice second and Bunting third. Fourth went to Jester and Wilkins rounded out the top five. Heats were won by Mills and Bunting. “We tore two cars up last week and I was a little under the weather but the boys back there in the pits came down and put in a lot of hours and it paid off,” said Mills.
The 15-lap AC Delco PSC Modified feature turned out to be a good one. Former champion, Joseph Tracy started on the pole after an eight car inversion draw. Chad Clark ran in second with Jordan Watson running in third. Watson took the second spot on lap four and the chase was on.
The race would go caution free and was a thriller as Tracy and Watson worked lapped traffic while battling for the lead. Tracy left the bottom groove open coming off the fourth turn for the white flag and Watson slipped by on the bottom and went on to his third consecutive win of the year. Tracy finished in second with Clark third. Fourth went to Dwayne Crockett and John Curtis finished fifth. The race was run in 5:27.955. Heats were won by Tim Trimble and Scott Hitchens.
Big Block Modified Finish: 1. Jamie Mills; 2. Brad Trice; 3. H.J. Bunting; 4. Matt Jester; 5. Beau Wilkins; 6. Joseph Watkins; 7. Howard O’Neal; 8. Matt Hawkins; 9. Robert Dutton; 10. Dale Hawkins; 11. Donnie Radd; 12. Jeff Brown; 13. Scott VanGorder; 14. Dana Walker; 15. Bobby Watkins; 16. Shawn Weber; 17. Michael White; 18. George Richardson; 19. Art Valdesere, Jr.
AC Delco Modified Finish: 1. Jordan Watson; 2. Joseph Tracy; 3. Chad Clark; 4. Dwayne Crockett; 5. John Curtis; 6. Tim Trimble; 7. Cameron Bellinger; 8. Ed Brown; 9. Brandon Blades; 10. Scott Hitchens; 11. Adam Weber; 12. Trent Willey; 13. Danny Smack; 14. Tyler Reed; 15. Brandon Watkins; 16. Richie Wilson; 17. Eriic Humlhanz; 18. Nick Alberti; 19. Herbie Hempel; 20. Shawn Weber; 21. Garrie Bostwick; 22. Wesley Smack; 23. Bryan Brasure.
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Fulton Speedway
Saturday
Quick Results
BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS 35 LAPS - LARRY WIGHT, Billy Decker, Ryan Phelps, Robbie Bellinger, Tim Sears Jr.,Pat Ward, Tom Sears Jr., Dan Vauter, Chris Hile, Matt Hulsizer, Chuck Bower, Adam Roberts, Chad Phelps, Johnny Hill, Jim Witko Jr., Katelyn Kane, Tim Schneider, Joe August Jr., Dale Planck.
SPORTSMAN 20 LAPS - JORDAN BENNETT, Shane Pecore, Rocco Leone, Ron Davis III, Scott Ford, Earl Rudy, Tom Cook, Beth Schneider, Jim Spano, Tony Finch II, Tom Juhl, Kyle Fink, Jason Occhino, Joe Kline, Dave Emmons, Corey Barker, Brandon Ford, Matt Emmons, George Dyer, Greg Mrzywka, Gregg Kimball, Mark Davison, Brandon Walters, Chris Hulsizer.
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Kenny Tremont Secures 300th Career Win on Albany Saratoga Speedway Soil
Malta ― May 3, 2013 ― With all the talk about Brett Hearn and Stewart Friesen at the 4/10 mile Albany Saratoga Speedway this season it appeared that Kenny Tremont was trying to remind folks that you can’t count him out when it comes to dominating at the ‘Great Race Place.’ Tremont, a 12 time Modified point champion at the Malta-based speedway, drove his S&S Asphalt Paving sponsored automobile like he stole it on Friday night.
At the start of the 35 lap Modified feature event it was all Jeff Trombley. But Tremont was lurking and cracked the top five, from his 11th place start, by the sixth circuit. Ten laps later and Tremont was sitting in second place. The two put on a show before Tremont went upstairs going into the first turn and went by Trombley for the race lead on lap 24.
The win was Tremont’s 58th win at the oval ― and his 300th career win.
“We had a good race there and you throw a couple of lap cars in there and it makes it interesting,” said the 51 year old Tremont. “If he [Trombley] picked the bottom I was going to pick the top and if he had picked the top I would have picked the bottom ― sometimes it’s easier to run second through lap traffic then it is to lead.”
Trombley followed Tremont across the finish line and was followed by Matt Delorenzo, Jeremy Wilder and Stewart Friesen.
At some points during the event it was hard to tell who was faster ― Delorenzo was flying on his ride up through the field after starting outside of Tremont in the sixth row.
The 25 lap Sportsman feature was owned by Jeremy Pitts. Despite a sixteen place starting position, Pitts was in top five status only a few circuits after the green flag dropped. Nick Lussier didn’t make it easy for Pitts at first and with one lap remaining Pitts made his move.
“He [Lussier] left a hole open, just enough where I could get in there,” said Pitts during post-race ceremonies. “I’m happy, the car has been good the last two weeks.”
Lussier, Andy Durie, Derrick McGrew and Fred Mullberger all got top five bragging rights when the Sportsman event concluded.
After a runner up finish the week prior, Jack Bublak came to the track to better that run and he did just that winning the 10 lap [shortened from 12 laps] Novice Sportsman feature event.
An incident early on, on the restart to lap six, put Matt Pappa to the rear and Bublak back into the race lead. Bublak brought his BW Steel sponsored automobile in for the win.
Pappa made it back up to the runner up spot and was followed by Chris Murray, Ricky Davis and the season opener winner, Connor Cleveland.
Starting the 2013 ARDC Season with wins at New Egypt,Williams Grove and Port Royal, Steve becomes the first driver to win the first three events of a season since six time ARDC Driver Champion Ray Bull pulled it off in 2001.
Albany-Saratoga Speedway
Friday
Modified Results (35 Laps) - 1) Ken Tremont Jr, 2) Jeff Trombley, 3) Matt Delorenzo, 4) Jeremy Wilder, 5) Stewart Friesen, 6) Ronnie Johnson, 7) Brett Hearn, 8) Neil Stratton, 9) Don Ronca, 10) Mark Kislowski, 11) Ray Hoard, 12) Marc Johnson, 13) Peter Britten, 14) A.J. Romano, 15) Matt Depew, 16) Bodie Bellinger, 17) Brian Gleason, 18) Keith Flach, 19) Rich Ronca, 20) Jimmy Cottrell, 21) Pep Corradi, 22) Tony Ballestero, 23) Kyle Sheldon, 24) Floyd Billington, 25) Justin Boehler, 26) John Proctor, 27) C.G. Morey, 28) Mike Perrotte DNS) John Lutes Jr.
Sportsman Results (25 Laps) - 1) Jeremy Pitts, 2) Nick Lussier, 3) Andy Durie, 4) Derek McGrew, 5) Fred Mullberger, 6) Adam McAuliffe, 7) Mike Tholin, 8) Fred Proctor, 9) Joe Orlando, 10) Dan Santabarbara, 11) Cody Bleau, 12) Luke Klob, 13) Scott Duell, 14) Derek Speshock, 15) Robert Budlak, 16) Nick Anatriello, 17) Mark Hughes, 18) Paul Dunham, 19) Eric Mack, 20) Brett Wright, 21) Mike Burdo, 22) Mike Jeske, 23) Jack Swinton, 24) Jack Gentile, 25) Elliott Lussier, 26) Chuck Dickinson, 27) D.J. Brundige, 28) Stan Lemiesz, 29) Frank Hoard III,
Novice Sportsman Results ( Laps) - 1) Jack Bublak, 2) Matt Pappa, 3) Chris Murray, 4) Ricky Davis, 5) Connor Cleveland, 6) Wally Potter, 7) Doug Hancock, 8) Zach Daurio, 9) Bob Schmidt, 10) Colin Bokus, 11) Anthony Alger, 12) John Linblade, 13) D.J. Mabb, DNS) Shannon Donnelly, DNS) Jesse Edwards
Pro Stock Results (25 Laps) - 1) Rob Yetman, 2) Dan Older, 3) Brandon Emigh, 4) Kim Duell, 5) Ed Thompson, 6) Dave Depaulo, 7) Byron Wescott, 8) Kevin VanChance, 9) Dean Charbonneau, 10) Dave Emigh, 11) Ken Martin, 12) Jeff Washburn, 13) Cale Kneer, 14) Frank Monroe, 15) Cole Lawton, 16) Walt Brownell, DNS) Matt Freckletong
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Penn Can Speedway
Quick Results
5-3-13
THORNTON, HILFIGER, CLAIM PENN CAN FEATURES
Susquehanna, PA...Billy Thornton took the high line on a mid-race restart in the modified feature to take the lead from Kevin Hartnett and powered his way to his first win of the season at Penn Can Speedway. Last week’s modified winner, Grant Hilfiger, continued his winning ways capturing the 602 sportsman feature.
Modified Feature: Billy Thornton, Kevin Hartnett, Bob Trapper, Joey Colsten, Al Rudalavage, Mike Marold Jr, Mike Schane, Mike Nagel Jr, Adam MacGeorge, Brian Malcolm, Alan Kellogg, Dan Pompey, Grant Hilfiger, John Siedlecky, Mike Dougherty, George Kostelansky, Ken Titus, Bob Hamm, Steve Babicek, Kevin Bates, Mike Nagel, Bobby Trapper, Nick Rochinski, DNS, Christine Martin
602 Sportsman Feature: Grant Hilfiger, Dusty Barton, Butch Green, Kyle Rohner, Paul Rooney, Alex Stanton, Wes Campbell, Jamie Cortazar, Bob Janesky, Randy Gates, George Brown
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Jimmy Phelps The Class Of The Modified Field At The Brewerton Speedway
BREWERTON, NY - MAY 3, 2013 (By Dave Medler) - Jimmy Phelps out of Baldwinsville, NY turned around opening night disappointment after ignition problems sidelined the defending track champion. On Friday night, Phelps grabbed the lead at the start of the 35 lap Tracey Road Equipment Big Block Modified feature and dominated the entire way, serving notice he won't be easy to dethrone as champion.
Other winners on Ehrlich The Pest Control Experts night were, Chris Fleming, Nationwide Insurance IMCA Modifieds, Tim Devendorf, Anchor Bar & Grill Mod Lites and Zak Petrie, Four Cylinder Super Stocks.
Matt Hulsizer and Jimmy Phelps brought the Tracey Road Equipment Big Block Modified field down to the green with Phelps blasting into the early lead at the start of the 35 lap main.
With 5 laps in the books, Phelps opened a few car length lead over Hulsizer and Chad Phelps, while Alan Johnson and Chris Hile battled in the top-five just before a yellow for Dan Vauter. Vauter made a quick trip to the pits and returned.
On lap 10, Phelps was still in command opening a ten car length advantage, as Tom Sears Jr., Hulsizer, Larry Wight and Johnson used up every inch of the speedway fighting for second through fifth.
With 15 laps showing on the lap counter, Phelps looked to be getting quicker by running the bottom in turns one and two, and the top in three and four. Sears, Hulsizer and Wight were still in a tight fight with Willy Decker closing quick in fifth.
On lap 20, Phelps was still on cruise control as he started putting cars down a lap, building up almost a five-second lead. Behind Phelps, Sears, Hulsizer, Wight and Decker were still fighting for top-five spots like it was the last lap of the race.
Over the remaining laps with no yellows to tighten the field up, Phelps put on a clinic cruising under the checkers first by well over a straightaway. Tom Sears Jr., Willy Decker, Larry Wight and Matt Hulsizer finished second through fifth.
Jimmy Phelps talked about his win after parking his J&B Installations/Industrial Tire Of CNY/ No.99J/Troyer in victory lane.
"We were good tonight, but towards the end I got a little nervous, it started to free-up, I think the track started to go away. We were coming into traffic and was glad we had a little lead and was able to back off and keep our nose out of trouble." We had a good race car last week but ran into some ignition problems."
"Next week is going to be a little bit tougher (Handicapping) tonight we had a great starting position due to last week's problems. It's a tough place, you still have to have a good car to run up front. We're happy to get one this early, we do have a car that can come from the back."
In the 20 lap Nationwide Insurance IMCA Modified feature, Kevan Cook and Chris Fleming put on an exciting race that saw Fleming take the lead on lap 18 to grab his second win in a row. Cook held onto second followed by Dane Keller Jr., Jim Walsh and Robert Weimer.
Like Fleming in the IMCA Modifieds, Tim Devendorf made it two-for-two in the 20 lap Anchor Bar & Grill Mod Lite feature. Devendorf started 13th and only took 8 laps to grab the lead by running the top of the speedway. Once out in the lead nobody had anything for Devendorf the rest of the way. Justin Williams, Lowell Zehr, Jeff Isabell Jr. and early leader Matt Magner rounded out the top-five.
It was a tough week for the Four Cylinder Super Stock family as Jerry Curcie Sr. passed away. Before their 15 lap feature a tribute was given by Lorraine Powelczyk with a missing-man formation before the field took the green.
In the feature Brian Evenden, Zak Petrie and Jessica Herbert-Redhead put on a great race at the front of the field. Redhead would run into problems leaving Evenden and Petrie to settle it. When the checkers flew, defending track champion Petrie picked up the victory. Brian Evenden, Aron Backus, Colby Herzog and Stephen Denton chased Petrie across the line.
This coming Friday, May 10th Mod Lite driver Jim Bogett and his Pro Race Cars, builders of Mod Lites presents a night of speed and thrills. On the race card will be the Tracey Road Equipment Big Block Modifieds, Nationwide Insurance IMCA Modifieds, Anchor Bar & Grill Mod Lites and Four Cylinder Super Stocks.
Pro Race Cars will sponsor a special event for the Mod Lites called "Crack The Whip." The event will take the top-four out of each heat race setting up a special 12 lap event for those cars. Look for invaders from Delaware and Canada who have committed to the night of racing.
Gates will open this Friday night at 5:30 with racing starting at 7:30. Adult grandstand admission will $12 with everyone 18 yrs old and younger admitted FREE to the grandstands. Pit admission is 25 Member/$30 Non-Member.
BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS 35 LAPS - JIMMY PHELPS, Tom Sears Jr., Willy Decker, Larry Wight, Matt Hulsizer, Chad Phelps, Matt Sheppard, Alan Johnson, Dale Planck, Billy Decker, Tim Sears Jr., Ryan Phelps, Chris Hile, Robbie Bellinger, Chuck Bower, Dan Vauter, Pat O'Brien, Pat Ward, Jim Witko, Joe August Jr., Johnny Hill, Ryan Bartlett.
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BRIDGEPORT SPEEDWAY’ S BIG BLOCK MODIFIED POKER SERIES IS SET TO RESUME WITH THE WINGATE CLASSIC
Bridgeport, NJ (May 2, 2013) – On the upcoming Memorial Day Weekend, Bridgeport Speedway’s Big Block Modified Poker Series is set to resume. On Sunday, May 26, the Wingate Classic, a 40-lap Big Block Modified race in honor of George Wingate, will pay the winner $4000 with $300 available to competitors upon taking the green. Wingate was a special person in the history of Bridgeport Speedway. Starting in 1978, Wingate began his first of three stints as Bridgeport Speedway promoter. In total, Wingate, who lost a battle with cancer in May 2003, held the promotional reins for nearly eleven years.
The Wingate Classic will be the second hand of the five race Poker Series. At each Poker Series race, the victor receives an Ace (A), second a King (K), third a Queen (Q) and so on down to the 13th-place finisher receiving a Deuce (2).
In addition, the Crate/Sportsman and Outlaw Stock Cars will have special events on May 26. The second hand of the Crate/Sportsman Poker Series is set to occur with $1000 going to the winner and $100 minimum going to the starters of the 30-lap feature. The second round of Black Flagged Racing’s Outlaw Stock Car Shoot Out Series takes place with plenty of extra incentives including lap money and a gambler’s bonus. All three divisions will have qualifying races and consolation events before their main events.
On Sunday May 26, the pit gates unlock at 4:00 p.m. and fans can begin to enter the grandstands at 5:00 p.m. Racing is slated to begin at 7:00 p.m. Adult (16 and older) admission for the opener will be $25 with students (10-15) being admitted for $12. Kids 9 and under are free. Admittance to the pits is $35.
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High Speeds And Thrills Ready To Return This Friday May 3 At The Brewerton Speedway
BREWERTON, NY - MAY 1, 2013 (By Dave Medler) - If the 2013 season opener was any indication, the 800 horse-power Tracey Road Equipment Big Block Modifieds are in for another exciting year on the "D-Shaped Dirt Demon."
On the race card this Friday, May 3rd, presented by Ehrlich The Pest Control Experts, will be the Tracey Road Equipment Big Block Modifieds, Nationwide Insurance IMCA Modifieds, Anchor Bar & Grill Mod Lites and Four Cylinder Super Stocks. 2012 Track Champions will be crowned on the front straightaway.
Last Friday night's season opener saw Chuck Bower, Billy Decker and Matt Sheppard put on a battle royal with Decker grabbing the exciting, narrow win over Sheppard at the checkers.
In the Nationwide Insurance IMCA Modifieds, Chris Fleming served notice he's going to be a force in 2013 as he dominated the 20 lap feature. With drivers like Kevan Cook, JJ Courcy, Jason Amidon and others it won't be easy for anyone to dominate.
Tim Devendorf once again used his rim-riding, exciting style to pick up the victory in the Anchor Bar & Grill Mod Lites. This will be another exciting season for the class as all the teams bring very sharp and professionally maintained equipment.
Chuck Powelczyk behind the wheel of his VW that has 16 seasons on the track, picked up a pair of wins in the Four Cylinder Super Stocks by winning the 2012 Outlaw 200 Weekend Four Cylinder Open and the Four Cylinder Super Stock main.
Ehlirch, the pest control experts service both the Brewerton and Fulton Speedways.
Ehrlich offers fast, responsive service. Their effective, customized pest control solutions include Fumigation, Bed Bug Control, and Termite Control - all provided by local offices throughout the east coast from Connecticut to Florida. Call them today by visiting www.jcehrlich.com or call 1-800-837-5520 for the nearest location to your business or residence. As always, remember to support those who support racing.
Gates will open this Friday, May 3rd at 5:30 with racing starting at 7:30. Adult admission will be $12 with everyone 18 yrs. old and younger admitted FREE to the grandstand. Pit admission will be $25 for members/$30 for non-members.
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A Malta Mumble
Malta -- Australian Peter Britten showed up at the season opener last Friday evening. Britten was going to be behind the wheel of the Jerry Darrah owned automobile and he was planning on becoming a regular sight at the Malta oval for the 2013 season.
“Albany Saratoga was a good feel,” said Britten days after his initial run. “They get a good crowd, there is a lot of good cars you are racing up against and it’s a good atmosphere. I’m looking forward to this year ? the first night out was a real good boost for everybody involved.”
Britten was quickly a crowd favorite. He ended up with a ‘head turning’ third place finish in the 35-lap Modified feature event.
“We didn’t expect to set the world on fire, we just wanted to go there and have a good run and get comfortable working together and it turned out really great,” said the 25 year old Britten. “We lead some laps and I only had Brett and Stuart get around me and even when they did get around me it’s not like they left me for dead ? we were still holding our own for the most part.”
Come out and watch Britten’s ‘Albany Adventure’ continue on Friday. The schedule shows it’s ‘Media Night’ with the Modified, Sportsman, Pro Stock, Street Stock and 4 Cylinder divisions.
Entry into the pit area is $20 for members and $25.00 for non-members.
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High Speeds And Thrills Ready To Return This Friday May 3 At The Brewerton Speedway
BREWERTON, NY - MAY 1, 2013 (By Dave Medler) - If the 2013 season opener was any indication, the 800 horse-power Tracey Road Equipment Big Block Modifieds are in for another exciting year on the "D-Shaped Dirt Demon."
On the race card this Friday, May 3rd, presented by Ehrlich The Pest Control Experts, will be the Tracey Road Equipment Big Block Modifieds, Nationwide Insurance IMCA Modifieds, Anchor Bar & Grill Mod Lites and Four Cylinder Super Stocks. 2012 Track Champions will be crowned on the front straightaway.
Last Friday night's season opener saw Chuck Bower, Billy Decker and Matt Sheppard put on a battle royal with Decker grabbing the exciting, narrow win over Sheppard at the checkers.
In the Nationwide Insurance IMCA Modifieds, Chris Fleming served notice he's going to be a force in 2013 as he dominated the 20 lap feature. With drivers like Kevan Cook, JJ Courcy, Jason Amidon and others it won't be easy for anyone to dominate.
Tim Devendorf once again used his rim-riding, exciting style to pick up the victory in the Anchor Bar & Grill Mod Lites. This will be another exciting season for the class as all the teams bring very sharp and professionally maintained equipment.
Chuck Powelczyk behind the wheel of his VW that has 16 seasons on the track, picked up a pair of wins in the Four Cylinder Super Stocks by winning the 2012 Outlaw 200 Weekend Four Cylinder Open and the Four Cylinder Super Stock main.
Gates will open this Friday, May 3rd at 5:30 with racing starting at 7:30. Adult admission will be $12 with everyone 18 yrs. old and younger admitted FREE to the grandstand. Pit admission will be $25 for members/$30 for non-members.
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GREAT WEATHER IN THE FORECAST SATURDAY FOR ANOTHER ROUND OF "STEEL VALLEY THUNDER" AT SHARON
By Mike Leone
Hartford, OH May 1, 2013 After a miserable start with weather to the 2013 racing season at Sharon Speedway, things finally broke last Saturday with a beautiful sunny 70-degree day. The sunny, warming trend is to continue right into the weekend as another clear, mild day is predicted for this Saturday, May 4. It'll be another installment of "Steel Valley Thunder" featuring a six-division program of Governor Insurance Agency DIRTcar Big-Block Modifieds, Barris Supply RUSH Late Models, Summit Racing Equipment Modifieds, Gibson Insurance Agency Stock Cars, HTMA/Precise Racing Products Econo Mods, and the Deforest Used Parts Mini Stocks. Racing begins at 7 p.m.
Who will be the first to stop the Kings in the DIRTcar Big-Block Modifieds!? Opening night saw Rex, Jr. lead all 20 laps of the Governor Insurance Agency feature and last Saturday it was Rex, Sr. doing the same. In recent years, the Big-Block Modified counts have been low at the beginning of the season and then increased by mid-year, but so far a respectable 18 cars were at each of the first two shows with 23 different drivers competing to date. The elder King currently leads "Cooter" by three markers.
Mike Pegher, Jr. made quick work of the RUSH Late Model competition last Saturday. After getting by Billy Henry, Jr. on lap three for runner-up, Pegher chased race-long leader Bobby Whitling for nearly 10 laps before making a breathtaking move in lapped traffic splitting Whitling and the lapped car for the winning move. It was a busy day for Pegher, who won earlier in the day at Pittsburgh, then beat feet to Sharon just in time for action to accumulate important points toward the Sweeney Chevrolet Buick GMC Weekly Series Championship. Opening night winner, Dennis Lunger, Jr., has an eight-point advantage on "Futures Cup" contender Eric Wilson in the Barris Supply point battle.
Once again Saturday night, one lucky boy and girl under the age of 14 will win a bicycle or scooter thanks to King Bros. This promotion will continue throughout the 2013 season.
Pits open at 4 p.m. Saturday with grandstands at 5 and heat races slated for 7. Grandstand admission for those 14 and are over is $13, while children under 14 are always free. Pit passes are $25. Parking and camping is always free.
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TWIN 15’S FOR THE STREET STOCKS HIGHLIGHT FRIDAY ACTION AT PENN CAN SPEEDWAY
Susquehanna, PA…The great racing action continues this Friday evening at Penn Can Speedway in Susquehanna, Pennsylvania. Another five star card of racing is scheduled to hit the fast three eighths mile oval. The mighty modifieds will be joined by the 602 sportsman, street stocks, factory stocks, and four cylinders. The Xcel 600’s have the night off. The featured division this Friday will be the street stocks. They will compete in qualifying heat races and two fifteen laps feature events. Street stock teams will draw for heat race starting positions. A redraw will then be held for the first feature. The second feature lineup will be inverted determined by a blind draw.
All other divisions will also draw for starting positions again this Friday. After Friday all divisions will be handicapped. New for the 2013 season are heat race points in the modified division only. Also this season, all points races will be awarded standard points. There will not be any mid-season or championship points night during the 2013 season.
The 2013 season finally got into the books after two straight postponements for weather. A large crowd was on hand to see six exciting feature races. Grant Hilfiger of Canadensis, PA came home the winner in a very thrilling modified feature event. Hilfiger held on to beat Joey Colsten of Binghamton, Ny in the thirty five lap feature event. Old Forge Pennsylvania’s Billy Thornton was third followed by Allan Rudalavage of Chapman Lake.
Paul Rooney of Thompson, Pa was the winner in the 602 sportsman feature holding of Dusty Barton, of Susquehanna, PA. Steve Deinhardt of Deposit, NY won the Street Stocks with George Brown of Binghamton, NY winning the factory stock feature. Kenny Underwood of Tunkhannock, PA was the four cylinder winner.
Gates for the “Can Opener” will open at 5:15 with racing at 7:30. Anyone with questions can contact the speedway at 570-585-9928 or check us out on the web at www.penncan.com.
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Rolling Wheels Ready for Another Year of Champions
Opener Promises Big Showdown with First Super DIRTcar Series Points Race
ELBRIDGE, N. Y. - Another year of champions is set to begin at Rolling Wheels Raceway Park with "The Fast Track's" opener just around the corner.
It all starts Wednesday, June 5, with the Hall of Fame 60 featuring the Super DIRTcar Series Big-Block Modifieds, the DIRTcar Sportsman Modified Series and the Midstate Vintage Stock Car Club. After a night honoring motorsports' finest at the Dirt Motorsports Hall of Fame and Classic Car Museum annual induction ceremony Tuesday, June 4, the best in the sport gear up to spend Wednesday at the Wheels for a celebratory night of racing.
Champions of now and then will be on hand Wednesday, with the prior night's Hall of Fame inductees holding an autograph session at 5:15 p.m. and heat winners at 8:30 p.m. Additionally, fans who strike early can meet any of the drivers and crew members in the pits, with advance-sale tickets including a FREE Fan Pit Pass.
Last year's Hall of Fame event winner, Matt Sheppard, who followed up his 2012 All Star Weekend win in May with another Rolling Wheels win in September's Stars & Stripes 100 Labor Day Classic, is prepping his 9s for what he hopes to be another victory-filled year on the 5/8-mile oval.
"We had a great setup," Sheppard, the three-time consecutive Super DIRTcar Series Champion, reflected. "When you have success like we've had at Rolling Wheels, you don't really want to mess with it too much."
If the 2012 season says anything, it's that Rolling Wheels brings the champions out from the rest of the pack. Sheppard's three consecutive Hall of Fame race wins in 2010, 2011, and 2012 lead to three consecutive Super DIRTcar Series wins the same years. Chuck Hebing went from victor at last July's Sprint Car Summer Shootout to 2012 Lucas Oil Empire Super Sprints Champion at season end. Rick Eckert reached second in points in the World of Outlaws Late Model Series after winning at Rolling Wheels, and 20-time World of Outlaws STP Sprint Car Series Champion "The King" Steve Kinser finished fifth in points after his autumn Rolling Wheels victory.
The best of the premier traveling tours return to Rolling Wheels for another year in 2013. The Lucas Oil Empire Super Sprint Car Series, with the help of a phenomenal fireworks display, lights up the track for a Independence Day celebratory race Wednesday, July 3. The summer heats up with "The Greatest Show on Dirt," the World of Outlaws STP Sprint Car Series, making its first of two appearances at the Wheels Tuesday, July 23.
The Super DIRTcar Series Big-Block Modifieds take their tour back to Central New York for the Stars & Stripes 100 Labor Day Classic Sunday, Sept. 1. Yet again, Rolling Wheels Raceway Park will play host to two NAPA Auto Parts Super DIRT Week satellite race nights, the first featuring the World of Outlaws Late Model Series Thursday, Oct. 10, and the second featuring the World of Outlaws STP Sprint Car Series Saturday, Oct. 12.
Tickets for all events are already on sale at www.dirtcar.com/tickets, and, as with the Hall of Fame 60, early ticket purchasers for all races receive a FREE Fan Pit Pass. Prepare to see the best of the best, not just on the track, but in person, for what is shaping up to be yet another year of champions at the Wheels.
For more information about Rolling Wheels Raceway Park, visit www.rollingwheelsraceway.com. For the latest updates, follow @DIRTcarNE on Twitter and "like" the DIRTcar Racing Facebook page.
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OCFS
Big Block Modifieds
Jerry Higbie
Chris Whitehead
Billy Vaninwegen
Steve Dodd
Clinton Mills
Tim Hindley
Jackie Brown
Craig Mitchell
Mike Ruggiero
Mike Kolka
Donnie Elliott
Chris Shultz
Tommy Meier
Bob Mcgannon
John Lieto
Neal Harris
Bill Pascual
Jeremy Markle
Shane Jablonka
Gary Edwards Jr
Rich Eurich
John Lodini
Ric Hill
Donnie Wilson
Bobby Varin
Jesse Kline (DNS)
Sportsman
Anthony Perrego
Brian Krummel
Andrew Reeves
Tyler Boniface
Jimmy Spellmon
Tyler Mckee
Zach Vavricka
Chris Stevens
Matt Janiak
Danny Cronk
L J Lombardo
Frank Doty
Joe Conklin
Randy Sweetman
Tommy Vigh
Kyle Cicio
Bryanna Hurban
Joe Falanga
Jimmy Devitt
Cliff Fitzgerald
Johnny Illanovsky
Frank Venezia
R.J. Smith
Dave Werber
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RYAN PHELPS MAKES LATE RACE PASS OF ALAN JOHNSON TO SCORE THE MODIFIED WIN AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY, STEVE WAY TAKE RACE OF CHAMPIONS SPORTSMAN WIN
VERNON, NY-This past Sunday evening, the fans at Utica-Rome Speedway were again treated to a fantastic night of racing on Rasmussen Rents night that saw action packed feature events in all divisions. Ryan Phelps made a late race pass on race long leader Alan Johnson to score his first ever Utica-Rome Speedway Modified win while Steve Way took home the big Race of Champions Sportsman Series win. Shawn Frost was the winner of the nonstop Pro Stock event while Ricky Breed was the Pure Stock victor.
Pole sitter Chad Homan brought the 24 car strong field of Modifieds to Matt Burdick’s green flag and immediately found himself as the leader as he would set the pace for the first two of the 30 lap main event. The legendary and third place starter, Alan Johnson, wrestled the lead away to lead the third lap as he looked to give car owner Dave Allen his first Utica-Rome Speedway win. The place was slowed on lap four for an implement tire and the restart saw Johnson again out front with Homan still hanging tough in the second spot as Ryan Phelps, Dale Planck, and Pat Ward filled out the top five. The second and final caution flag of the event flew on lap seven as Mike Mahaney made hard contact with the wall in turn, which collected last week’s victor, Ronnie Johnson. Heavy damage ended the evening for Mahaney while Johnson was able to rejoin the field.
The restart saw Alan Johnson again setting the quick pace around the spacious half mile as the action was heating up behind him. Planck grabbed the second spot on lap nine, dropping Homan back into the clutches of Phelps and 11th place starter Larry Wight who was making an impressive charge to the front. Lap 11 saw Wight take the third spot away from Homan, who was now being hounded by Todd Burley. As the field took the crossed flags to signify the halfway point, it was Johnson pulling away followed by Planck, Wight, Phelps, and Ward. Homan was in the sixth spot over Stewart Friesen, Matt Fink, Matt Sheppard, and Jimmy Davis.
Johnson seemingly had the race under control as he had a large lead over the field with ten to go while the rest of the top positions were still in doubt, but as the laps wound down, Johnson margin began to shrink. Planck was the first to begin to challenge Johnson for the lead with five to go, while Phelps and Wight put on a great side by side battle for third with Phelps grabbing the spot. Phelps wasn’t done though as he joined in on the battle for the lead. Phelps and Planck crossed the line side by side for second the next two laps, with Johnson barely hanging on to the lead. As the trio came down to take the white flag, they crossed the stripe three wide with Phelps on the top, Johnson in the middle, and Planck on the bottom. Phelps would barely be scored the leader and would fend off Planck’s last lap bid to score the hard fought and crowd pleasing win with Planck just behind him. Friesen made a late race charge to grab the third spot over Johnson and Wight. Filling out the top ten was Ward, Sheppard, Burley, Davis, and Homan.
The Race of Champions Sportsman series event saw 29 cars take the green flag with third place starter AJ Filbeck grabbing the lead at the drop of the green. Filbeck’s mount began to show some signs of problems to come however, as it began to smoke and on lap eight, he retired from the event. Seventh place starter and last week’s opening night victor, Jeremy Vunk, inherited the point and looked to continue where he left off last week. With Vunk showing the quick way around, the remainder of the top five was continuously changing positions on every lap as pole sitter Steve Way, a rim riding Heath Carney, Matt Janczuk, and Alan Barker worked each other over for position. As the race closed in on the halfway point of the 30 lap affair, Way and Janczuk both started to reel in the leader Vunk and on lap 16, Way made the pass for the lead as he took over the top spot. Two more caution periods slowed the pace in the last half of the event but Way was up to the task as he took home the big $1,000 payday over Janczuk, Vunk, Claude Hutchings, Jr. and Chris Mackey. Barker, Jack Miller, Butch Green, Tye-Scott Rood, and Randy Shantel rounded out the top ten spots at the finish.
Pro Stock action saw Shawn Frost jump to the lead from his front row starting spot to pace the field early in the 20 lap main event. Frost easily pulled away from the competition as AJ Digsby, Pete Stefanski, and Mark Effner battled hard for the runner-up spot with Digsby holding down the spot for the first seven circuits. Stefanski slipped by Digsby for second as lap eight went into the books as he began his pursuit of the leader Frost, who was way out front at this point. Frost went unchallenged the rest of the way for his first win of the young season with Stefanski coming second while Digsby narrowly held off a charging Denton for third. Denton was scored fourth at the line with Bret Belden rounding out the top five.
Next Sunday, May 5, Williams Tire and Auto will present another exciting night of short track racing as they present a regular show of Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks, and Pure Stocks. Race time is set for 6 p.m. with gates opening at 3:30 p.m. For more information, please log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com or call the speedway office at (315)829-4557.
MODIFIED FEATURE FINISH (30 LAPS)-RYAN PHELPS, Dale Planck, Stewart Friesen, Alan Johnson, Larry Wight, Pat Ward, Matt Sheppard, Todd Burley, Jimmy Davis, Chad Homan, Billy Decker, Jason Rood, Ronnie Johnson, Matt Billings, Willy Decker, Casey Williams, Robby Bellinger, Brad Alger, Adam Roberts, Matt Fink, Rocky Warner, Mike Bowman, Chris Hile, and Mike Mahaney. DNQ-Randy Chrysler, Darwin Greene, Aaron Jacobs, Phil Burkart, Jr., Eldon Payne, Jr., Matt Hulsizer.
RACE OF CHAMPIONS SPORTSMAN FEATURE FINISH (30 LAPS)-STEVE WAY, Matt Janczuk, Jeremy Vunk, Claude Hutchings, Jr., Chris Mackey, Alan Barker, Jack Miller, Butch Green, Tye-Scott Rood, Randy Shantel, Jim Houseworth, Danny Tyler, Heath Carney, Craig Pope, Kenny Hammond, Clay Butler, Charlie Hendrickson, Eddie White, Kevin Jordan, Mike Stiles, Mike Butler, Bobby Heintz, Randy Green, Brian White, Rusty Smith, Rich Rutski, AJ Filbeck, Jim Rothwell, and Steve Searock. DNQ-Robert Barker, Andrew Ferguson, Tim Murphy, Ivan Joslin, Chris McCoy, Kyle DeMetro, Jerry Tonti, Brandon Walters, Stephen Denton, Adam Smith, Chad Ray, Brett Wright, Brandon Ford, George Dyer, Daryl Nutting.
PRO STOCK FEATURE FINISH (20 LAPS)-SHAWN FROST, Pete Stefanski, AJ Digsby, Tom Denton, Bret Belden, Mark Effner, Glenn Forward, Chris Carr, Ed Ostrander, Bill Knapp, Joe Palmer, Dana Camenga, Jim Money, Corie Locke, Dan Lashure, Andy Lashure, Don Folts, Gus Hollner, and Cale Hoffman.
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Round 1 to the ‘Jersey Jet’ Brett Hearn
Malta ― April 26, 2013 ― If the action in the 35-lap Modified feature event on Friday night is any sign of what’s ahead at Albany Saratoga Speedway then we are in for a real knock-down, drag out fight this season. The line-up was huge and so was the action.
When the green flag dropped Brett Hearn was ready to show the field why he was the reigning point champion but he had to do battle with the new faces of A.J. Romano and Pete Britten before he would secure the race lead. Early on in the feature event Hearn took over the third position from Stuart Friesen ― the fifth time around the 4/10 mile oval Hearn put Romano behind him was ready to show the Austrailian, Britten, why he is so dominant.
Britten, who was real impressive at the ‘Great Race Place’ had Hearn’s Madsen Motorsports mount all over him. He was about to relinquish the race lead but Hearn wasn’t successful on the high-side so he dropped down and swiped the lead from Britten. Hearn never looked back, despite late race attempts from Friesen, and went on to take his seventh season opener at the Malta oval and his 104th career victory at Albany Saratoga Speedway.
Friesen was second while Britten, Ronnie Johnson and Matt Delorenzo rounded out the top five. An impressive run was put forth by Kenny Tremont who came from the 29th place starting position, to finish the initial event in seventh place.
Sportsman driver Derrick McGrew was hoping for the same results as last year’s season opener ― and he got them. McGrew was fast all night and went from his seventh place starting position to the runner up spot by the ninth circuit. The next lap and McGrew was in the lead. He went on for the win.
The Speedway’s newest division, the Novice Sportsman feature consisted of 13 drivers. The sub-division to the Sportsman class is to give the new racers some more lap time and some more room while they learn. Connor Cleveland took the honors in the division’s 12 –lap feature event. Cleveland was followed by Jack Bublak who was consistent all night. Doug Hancock, Chris Murray and John Lindeblade rounded out the top five.
At the drop of the green flag in the Pro Stock feature event it was all Cale Kneer who is back behind the wheel of a Pro Stock automobile. Kneer, a seven time winner at the Malta oval, looked good all night but couldn’t hold back a hard charging Rob Yetman who took the lead on the fifth circuit. Kneer gave Yetman another challenge for the top spot but it was all Yetman when the 25-lap show concluded.
Kenny Martin, who started the event from outside the fourth row, was part of the entertaining trio with Yetman and Kneer. Ed Thompson and Bill Smith rounded out the top five.
Modified Feature [35 laps]: Brett Hearn, Stewart Friesen, Pete Britten, Ronnie Johnson, Matt Delorenzo, A.J.Romano, Kenny Tremont, Jeremy Wilder, Bodie Bellinger, Marc Johnson, Keith Flach, Matt Depew, Pep Corradi, Mark Kislowski, Jimmy Cottrell, Justin Boehler, Mike Perrotte, C. G. Morey, Floyd Billington, Tony Ballestero, John Lutes, Jr., Ray Hoard, Neil Stratton, Rich Ronca, Don Ronca, Brian Gleason, Jeff Trombley DNS Chris Busta, John Proctor
Modified Heats: Brett Hearn, A.J. Romano, Matt Delorenzo
Sportsman Feature [25 laps]: Derrick McGrew, Scott Duell, Cody Bleau, Paul Dunham, Jack Gentile, Dan Santabarbara, Joey Scarborough, Andy Durie, Robert Bublak, Joe Orlando, D.J. Brundige, Mike Tholin, Jack Swinton, Jeremy Pitts, Jake Scarborough, Mike Jeske, Dave Baranowski Jr., Adam McAuliffe, Mark Hughes, Derek Speshock, Frank Hoard III, Pete Jeske, Jon Miller, Stan Lemiesz, Luke Klob, Mike Burdo, Brett Wright, Nick Anatriello
DNQ Fred Mullberger, Nick Lussier, Elliott Lussier, Nelson Passino, Chuck Dickinson, Fred Proctor, Mike Ostrander, Eric Mack, Seth Roberts, Jim Osgod, Leo Sousie
Sportsman Heats: Dan Santabarbara, Jack Swinton, Derrick McGrew, Jack Gentile
Sportsman Consi: Adam McAulliffe, Jon Miller
Novice Sportsman Feature [12 laps]: Connor Cleveland, Jack Bublak, Chris Murray, John Lindblade, Zach Daurio, Troy Comeau, Ricky Davis, Wally Potter, Colin Bokus, Anthony Alger, Bob Schmidt, Jesse Edwards, Shannon Donnelly DQ Doug Hancock
Novice Sportsman Heats: Connor Cleveland, Chris Murray
Pro Stock Feature [25 laps]: Rob Yetman, Cale Kneer, Ken Martin, Ed Thompson, Bill Smith, Dave Emigh, Byron Wesscott, Dean Charbonneau, Walt Brownell, Kim Duell, Frank Monroe, Cole Lawton, Dan Older, Brandon Emigh, Kevin VanChance, Jeff Washburn, Dave DePaulo
Prostock Heats: Cale Kneer, Dan Older
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BUFFALINO CASHES IN AT BRIDGEPORT SPEEDWAY
Bridgeport, NJ (April 28, 2013) – On Kid’s Money Scramble Night at Bridgeport Speedway, Dominick Buffalino took the top cash prize with a win in the Big Block Modified feature. In a tight finish, Marc Herman took the checkered flag in the Crate/Sportsman main event. The Rookie race was won by Ian Humphries with Terry Griffin topping the field in the Outlaw Stock Car feature.
From his pole starting position, Tom Maccherone shot out to the front of the 30-lap Big Block Modified feature and was followed by Neil Huber, Ron Roberts, and Dominick Buffalino. By the third circuit, Buffalino had motored into the runner-up spot. With ten tours completed, Maccherone had a narrow lead over Buffalino. By lap 14, Maccherone had Buffalino locked onto his back bumper. On the next tour, Maccherone and Buffalino waged a side-by-side battle on the frontstretch and Buffalino was able slip by Maccherone to gain the lead. Rick Laubach, who started the event in fifteenth place, continued his charge to the front as he moved into third place on lap 17. One circuit later, the first caution flag of the race waved for a stopped Sean Gunther. When action got back underway, Buffalino maintained his advantage with Laubach, Roberts, and Maccherone in tow.
A multi-car accident in turn four on lap 19 slowed the action once again. On the ensuing restart, the red flag appeared as a three-car tangle in the first corner left the cars of Matt Harrell and Sam Martz with heavy damage. When green flag racing resumed, Buffalino kept his lead with Laubach, Roberts, Don Cogdill, III and Scott Irwin in his tracks. The top two of Buffalino and Laubach slowly began to pull away from their rivals until Richie Pratt’s ride developed a flat with four circuits remaining. On the single file restart, the top three of Buffalino, Laubach, and Roberts remained in order and were immediately followed by Irwin and Eric Kormann. Action stopped with two tours to go as Richie Pratt, Jr. and Mike Barone tangled near the starter stand. As the green lights illuminated, the top three stayed intact
with Kormann moving into fourth and Cogdill, III taking over fifth.
Ryan Watt’s flat tire brought out the final yellow flag with one lap to go. Following the last green flag, Buffalino was able to keep his advantage on the final lap. Just as Buffalino crossed the finish line to win his first Big Block Modified race at Bridgeport Speedway, his right rear tire became flat. The runner-up spot went to Laubach. With Roberts holding on to finish in third, Kormann came home in fourth and Cogdill, III wound up in fifth. Dom Buffalino, Ron Roberts, and Scott Irwin won the Big Block Modified heat races.
In the 20-lap Crate/Sportman main event, Marc Herman nosed out Brad Roberts for his second victory of the season. Dave Damiano set the pace for the opening seven circuits before Roberts gained control. Herman, the tenth place starter, had scurried into the runner-up position with nine tours recorded. Following a last lap restart, Roberts and Herman waged a nip and tuck battle for the lead throughout the final circuit. As they crossed the finish line, Herman was inches ahead of Roberts. Mike Cogdill, Bob Lilick, and Steve Davis completed the top five. The Crate/Sportsman qualifying contests were taken by Ricky DiEva, Marc Herman, and Steve Searock.
Ian Humphries used a last lap restart to pass Jeff Bubori to win his second D.A.’S Auto Body and Repair Rookie Series feature of the year. Humphries was followed by Bubori, Jesse James Bonaduce, Kris Lilick, and Tyler Hulmes.
Racing on the 5/8th mile resumes on Saturday, May 4. The action is set to include Big Block Modifieds, Crate/Sportsman, Outlaw Stock Cars, and D.A.’s Auto Body and Repair Rookies. A House of Rock house band will be performing in the grandstand pavilion before the action gets underway. In addition, a Sumo Wrestling contest will take place with prizes for the winner and a free moon bounce will be available for children. Gates to the pits will open at 3:30 p.m. and grandstand turnstiles unlock at 4:30 p.m. The first race starts at 6:00 p.m. Spectators (16 and older) are admitted for $15 with students (10-15) being admitted for $10. Kids 9 and under are free.
BIG BLOCK MODIFIED FEATURE - 30 LAPS 1. DOMINICK BUFFALINO 2. Rick Laubach 3. Ron Roberts 4. Eric Kormann 5. Don Cogdill, III 6. Jimmy Horton 7. Tom Maccherone 8. Rob Nixon 9. Dave Hunt 10. Rich Kuiken, Jr. 11. Richie Pratt, Jr. 12. Mike Barone 13. Ryan Watt 14. Neil Huber 15. Scott Irwin 16. Mike Iles 17.Sam Martz 18. Matt Harrell 19. Wade Hendrickson 20. Mike Franz 21. Tommy Beamer 22. Sean Gunther 23. Bob Sarkisian 24. Dave Witte. DNQ: Stan Frankenfield, Jr.
Big Block Modifieds
Heat 1 - 1. Dominick Buffalino 2. Wade Hendrickson 3. Mike Iles 4. Mike Barone 5. Richie Pratt, Jr. 6. Sean Gunther
Heat 2 - 1. Ron Roberts 2. Tom Maccherone 3. Jimmy Horton 4. Matt Harrell 5. Tommy Beamer 6. Rob Nixon
Heat 3 - 1. Scott Irwin 2. Ryan Watt 3. Rick Laubach 4. Don Cogdill III 5. Neil Huber 6.Sam Martz
CRATE/SPORTSMAN FEATURE - 20 LAPS 1. MARC HERMAN 2. Brad Roberts 3. Mike Cogdill 4. Bob Lilick 5. Steve Davis 6. Travis Hill 7. Dave Damiano 8. Matt Budd 9. CJ Jones 10. Brett Ballard 11. Billy Briggs 12. Steve Searock 13. Ian Humphries 14. Jeff Bubori 15. Harry Landis 16. Jesse James Bonaduce 17. Ryan Wozunk 18. Pete Serra 19. Jason Bittner 20. Brett Kelly 21. Scott Hulmes 22. Jason Duppel 23. Ricky DiEva 24. Tyler Hulmes 25. Kris Lilick
ROOKIE SERIES FEATURE - 8 LAPS 1. IAN HUMPHRIES 2. Jeff Bubori 3. Jesse James Bonaduce 4. Kris Lilick 5. Tyler Hulmes 6. Pete Luchesse
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DIVISION STANDOUTS KING, PEGHER ADD TO SHARON WIN TOTALS WITH BIG-BLOCK MOD, RUSH LM
By Mike Leone
Hartford, OH April 27, 2013 After rough weather to begin the 84th anniversary racing season, Sharon Speedway was finally blessed with the nicest Saturday of 2013 with a sunny 70-degree day. A season high 105 cars filled the pit area.
Celebrating in the Hovis Auto & Truck Supply victory lane were Rex King-Governor Insurance DIRTcar Big-Block Modifieds, Mike Pegher, Jr.-Barris Supply RUSH Late Models, Alan Dellinger-Summit Racing Equipment Modifieds, Paul Davis-Gibson Insurance Agency Stock Cars, Steve Burns, Jr.-HTMA/Precise Racing Products Econo Mods, and Scott Gilliland-Deforest Used Parts Mini Stocks. Will Frantz of Vienna, Ohio and Gwen Reed of Brookfield, Ohio were the two winners of the bike giveaways courtesy of King Bros. and Sharon Speedway.
The King Family made it two-for-two in the DIRTcar Big-Block Modifieds. On opening night, Rex King, Jr. led all 20 laps for the win. After a rainout and a special event, the big blocks were back for week two and this time it was the elder Rex King leading wire-to-wire in the 20-lap Governor Insurance feature adding to his all-time active-leading division win total.
"I didn't want to listen to that this week," joked the Bristolville, Ohio veteran about getting beat by his son the first week. "We touched right here then when I came around I saw him (Dave Murdick) up there so I don't know what he broke or what happened. I hope it's nothing too serious. I like racing with Davey. He and I have been doing it for the same time."
King and Murdick, who own five of the last six division championships, brought the field to green. The two made contact on the frontstretch with Murdick getting sideways and eventually finding the turn one wall ending his night. Two more cautions slowed action with one laps completed before things settled down. King raced to the lead over Jim Weller, Jr. and Skip Moore, while seventh starting Jeremiah Shingledecker raced into fourth past King, Jr. on the restart.
Shingledecker continued his progression to the front taking third from Moore one lap later with an inside move in turn four. King, Jr. followed in fourth on lap seven then got a break when the caution was displayed for a spin by Bob Warren with eight laps scored. Shingledecker didn't have a good restart as both King, Jr. and Moore grabbed third and fourth respectively on lap nine.
Back up front, the last 12 laps would go green-to-checkered and King went unchallenged for his 43rd career win in the KMB Inc., GS Engine Power/Midway Garage Door/University Hospital-sponsored #65. Weller was 3.096 seconds back in second. King, Jr. was a close third to keep within three points of his father in the point chase. Moore and Shingledecker rounded out the top five. NY racer Ricky Richner came back to finish sixth after a pit stop for a flat tire. Rob Kristyak, Kevin Green, Erik Martin, and Jeff Monoskey rounded out the top 10. Heat winners were King and Murdick.
It was a history making day for Mike Pegher, Jr. in the Sweeney Chevrolet Buick GMC RUSH Dirt Late Model Series. After winning the $1,000 Weekly Series special earlier in the day at Pittsburgh's PA Motor Speedway for his first victory of 2013, Pegher towed north to Sharon and made it a clean sweep of the day adding another $700 in the non-stop Barris Supply feature.
"I may never do that again," expressed the 27-year-old Wexford, Pa. standout. "I didn't know if we were even going to make it up. We got here just in time to make the pill draw and was lucky enough to get a good number. I never thought this would happen, but it's pretty cool! I have to give credit to my crew guy Mike. We set the car up on Wednesday for both Pittsburgh and Sharon that way we knew exactly what to do. As soon as the feature was over at Pittsburgh we changed everything over. I have to thank all of my sponsors and the fans for coming out."
Last year, Stock Car standout Bobby Whitling won his first career Late Model feature at the track. On Saturday night, Whitling was making his season debut and raced out to the early lead over another newcomer in Billy Henry, Jr. Opening night winner, Dennis Lunger, Jr., was on the move from his sixth starting spot. Lunger raced into the top five after one lap then passed Joe Martin for fourth on lap two.
Pegher worked his way by Henry for second on lap three, but by now Whitling had a straightaway lead built up. The laps ticked off as not much changed up front. Lunger gained another spot when drove around Henry in turn two for third on lap 10. At the halfway point, Pegher cut Whitling lead in half down to a half-straightaway margin.
With each lap, Pegher chewed into Whitling's lead then made quite a move on lap 13. While Whitling ducked low to lap Late Model rookie Jamie Wrightsman, Pegher eyed the opportunity as he split the duo making it three-wide on the backstretch. Slight contact was made between the trio, but Pegher came out on top.
Once in front, Pegher got faster and faster as he pulled away to win by 3.847 seconds. Pegher's non-stop time was 5:44.951 minutes in the Lynn Geisler-owned, #1 Cochran/Alternative Power Sources/Pegher Painting/Triple-S Auto Outlet/Zero Wraps-sponsored #1c. The win was Pegher's all-time division-leading seventh of his career at Sharon.
Whitling turned in a solid runner-up over Lunger, who increased his point lead to eight. Martin passed defending track champion Will Thomas III on lap 14 to finish fourth. Thomas was fifth. Sixth through 10th were "Futures Cup" standout Eric Wilson, Josh Double, Matt Latta, Lauren Longbrake, and Rusty Cade. Heat winners were 15-year-old Longbrake in her first start of the season and Pegher.
DIRTcar Big-Block Modifieds (20 laps): 1. REX KING (65) 2. Jim Weller, Jr. (31) 3. Rex King, Jr. (165) 4. Skip Moore (17M) 5. Jeremiah Shingledecker (37MD) 6. Ricky Richner (26) 7. Rob Kristyak (00) 8. Kevin Green (74) 9. Erik Martin (29E) 10. Jeff Monoskey (22) 11. Dave Reges (27R) 12. Rick Regalski, Jr. (13) 13. Tom Glenn (83T) 14. Bob Warren (96B) 15. Greg Unrue (5) 16. Dave Murdick (61) 17. Carl Murdick (6) 18. Ronnie Kahler (7R)-DNS.
RUSH Late Models (20 laps): 1. MIKE PEGHER, JR. (Geisler 1c) 2. Bobby Whitling (7W) 3. Dennis Lunger, Jr. (Schwartz 71L) 4. Joe Martin (55) 5. Will Thomas III (9) 6. Eric Wilson (27W) 7. Josh Double (38) 8. Matt Latta (21) 9. Lauren Longbrake (27) 10. Rusty Cade (47) 11. Rocky Kugel (21) 12. Joe Buccola, Jr. (5B) 13. Clay Ruffo (14R) 14. W.L. Stile (1W) 15. Jamie Wrightsman (21J) 16. Billy Henry, Jr. (McGee 21*) 17. Brian Booher (Hoover 00H).
Sharon Speedway will be back in action this Saturday, May 4 with another "Steel Valley Thunder" program featuring the weekly six divisions. Pits open at 4 p.m. with grandstands at 5 and racing at 7. Grandstand admission is $13 for those 14 and up. Children 13 and under are always free. Pit passes are $25. Parking is always free.
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Osmun “Runs Down” Pauch on Little League Night at New Egypt
New Egypt, NJ (Apr. 27, 2013) – Willie Osmun of Bloomsbury, NJ won his first feature of 2013 Saturday night as he captured the 30 lap 358 Modified event at New Egypt Speedway. Osmun started 6th and after being passed in the early going by both Billy Pauch and Ryan Godown, he ran both of them down and then drove off to an impressive victory.
“The car really came to us during the second half of the race,” stated Osmun in victory lane, “It feels great to win for the Norcia team like my dad did so many times, hopefully this is the first of many!”
Rocco Infante grabbed the lead at the start of the event and again looked strong as he powered out to a sizeable advantage during the opening laps over Rick Holsten and Ron John Koczon. Five-time champion Billy Pauch, who started ninth, was in the top five by lap 2 and was wasting no time as he charged toward the front. He quickly moved up to second but found that he had his hands full trying to catch 3-time Sportsman champ Infante. Lap 11 saw Pauch finally catch Infante and take the lead, as defending champ Godown was making a charge and he quickly moved into second. Osmun was biding his time in the back of the top five during this time, but as his car got stronger he began to advance moving into third by halfway and then quickly passing Godown for second. Osmun then began reeling in Pauch, cutting his lead in half when the yellow appeared on lap 18. After one failed attempt to complete the next lap, Osmun was able to drive into turn one even with Pauch and drive around him off of turn two with the lead much to the delight of the crowd that was now on their feet. Pauch put the pressure on for the next two laps and it appeared that this was going to be a 10 lap battle royale between the two, however, Osmun then suddenly began to pull away and went on to win by 7 car lengths at the finish for his fourth career Modified victory. Pauch settled for second followed by Godown. David Van Horn made a late race charge nipping Ron John Koczon at the line for fourth as Koczon finished fifth. The weekly $500 to win Heat races went to Koczon and Pauch.
Kyle Bostick of Edison, NJ won his first ever feature event in the FASTRAK Crate Sportsman 20 lapper. Bostick took the lead with 5 laps to go from race long leader Doug Urbano and then held off young Mike Carman for the victory. Carman settled for a strong second, followed by Urbano, Ryan Simmons and Chuck Steuer. The weekly $200 to win Heat races were won by Urbano, Steuer and Matt McAnally.
Jeff Schall of Great Meadows, NJ took top honors In the TriState RaceSaver 305 Sprint Series event. Schall looked powerful throughout the race powering away and each and every restart to win his second career feature at the central Jersey speedplant. Joe Lord came home second, pursued by Phil Meisner Jr. in third. Mike Haggenbottom and Jamie Kostic rounded out the top five.
In the HCI/Spike-N-Go Rookie Sportsman race of 2013, Jesse Rozycki of Phillipsburg, NJ took home his first win in the 10 lap event, besting the field of 13 Rookies in the second race in the series. Opening night winner Chuckles Stone finished second and Ryan Cox was third.
Next Saturday May 4th it will be Twin 20’s for the 358 Modifieds, joined by the Sportsman, the HCI/SpikeNGo Rookies and the Street Stocks. Racing gets underway at 6pm, with gates opening at 4pm. For more information, call the speedway office at (609) 758-1900 or log on to www.newegyptspeedway.net.
NES RESULTS 4/27/13
358 MODIFIED Feature (30 Laps): 1. Willie Osmun 2. Billy Pauch 3. Ryan Godown 4. David Van Horn 5. Ron John Koczon 6. Rick Holston 7. Gary Butler 8. Bob Drayton 9. Rocco Infante 10. Tad Cox 11. John Stangle 12. PJ Oliver 13. Neal Williams 14. Sammy Piazza 15. Doug Ostwald 16. Chris Garbac 17. Tommy Farrell III 18. John McClelland, DNS: Tim Apgar
1st Heat: 1. Ron John Koczon 2. Rocco Infante 3. John McClelland 4. Rick Holsten 5. John Stangle 6. Bob Drayton
2nd Heat: 1. Billy Pauch 2. Ryan Godown 3. Willie Osmun 4. Gary Butler 5. Tad Cox 6. Sammy Piazza
FASTRAK CRATE SPORTSMAN Feature (20 Laps): 1. Kyle Bostick 2. Mike Carman 3. Doug Urbano 4. Ryan Simmons 5. Chuck Steuer 6. Steve Hicks 7. John Aumick 8. Bryan Kuhl 9. John Micek 10. Eric Palmer 11. Matt McAnally 12. Patrick Gold 13. Frank Dorry 14. Jordan Cox 15. Clyde Cox III 16. Jeff Kuhl 17. Adam Cox 18. Pat Hires 19. Ron Barnstead 20. Mike Everett 21. Mark Clauss 22. Chuckles Stone 23. Bob Rambone 24. Rich Steele 25. Jeremy Martino 26. Mike Butler 27. Jesse Rozycki
1st Heat: 1. Doug Urbano 2. Mike Butler 3. John Micek 4. Jeff Kuhl 5. Pat Hires 6. Bob Rambone
2nd Heat: 1. Matt McAnally 2. Jeremy Martino 3. Adam Cox 4. Jordan Cox 5. Mark Clauss 6. Kyle Bostick
3rd Heat: 1. Chuck Steuer 2. Bryan Kuhl 3. Mike Carman 4. John Aumick 5. Ryan Simmons 6. Steve Hicks
B Main: 1. Eric Palmer 2. Frank Dorry 3. Patrick Gold 4. Clyde Cox III 5. Mike Everett 6. Rich Steele
Pts. Provisional: Ron Barnstead
Fans Provisional: Chuckles Stone
DNQ: Robbie Dunn, John Cranstoun, Scott Hyland, Melissa Scarpati, Scott Lamantia, Lauren Emmons, George Gareis Jr., Dean Conk Jr., Aaron Weaver
TSRS 305 SPRINT CAR Feature (20 Laps): 1. Jeff Schall 2. Joe Lord 3. Phil Meisner Jr. 4. Mike Haggenbottom 5.Jamie Kostic 6. Pat Freiberger 7. George Loux 8. Rick Stief 9. Eddie Wagner 10. David Martin 11. Tim Tanner Jr. 12. Erica Palmai 13. David Brown Jr. 14. Ed Newhouser 15. Steve Wilson 16. Gabe Fox 17. Harris Kohen 18. Bobby DeVault 19. Kyle Reinhardt 20. Adam Carberry 21. Mario Page 22. Jon Haegele 23. Jimmy Carpenter 24. Jimmy Campbell
1st Heat: 1. Kyle Reinhardt 2. George Loux 3. Phil Meisner Jr. 4. Gabe Fox 5. Ed Newhouser 6. Jimmy Campbell
2nd Heat: 1. Jimmy Carpenter 2. Pat Freiberger 3. Joe Lord 4. Mike Haggenbottom 5. Tim Tanner Jr. 6. Rick Stief
3rd Heat: 1. Bobby DeVault 2. Jamie Kostic 3. Jeff Schall 4. David Martin 5. Steve Wilson 6. Eddie Wagner
B Main: 1. Adam Carberry 2. John Haegele 3. Erica Palmai 4. David Brown Jr. 5. Harris Kohen 6. Mario Page
DNQ: Justin Hoffman, Karl Freyer, Bryant Davis, Pat Usellis, Sean Kirkpatrick, Cody Jourdan, Stephanie Palmai, Gary Berkenstock, Mike Kostic
HCI/SPIKENGO ROOKIE SPORTSMAN Feature (10 Laps): 1. Jesse Rozycki 2. Chuckles Stone 3. Ryan Cox 4. George Gareis Jr. 5. George Kohrmann 6. Justin Dunn 7. Duane Nixon 8. Jim Fulper 9. Robbie Dunn 10. Aaron Weaver 11. Patrick Gold. DNS: Jimmy Amato, Dean Conk Jr.
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TWO IN A ROW FOR FRIESEN AT FONDA
By: Ron Szczerba
Fonda Speedway management began handicapping procedures to lineup the feature events on Saturday evening and not even starting 16th could stop defending track champion Stewart Friesen from getting to victory lane as he took the lead in the Modified feature with only three laps remaining in the 30-lap event and went on to his 12th career win at the Track of Champions.
Winners in other divisions on Saturday evening were defending 602 Sportsman Track Champion Cody Bleau (602 Sportsman), Nick Stone (Pro Stock), Reuben Kennedy JR. (Street Stock), and Danny Varin (CRSA Sprints).
During intermission two bicycles were given away to a lucky boy and girl in memory of Ed Keyser who passed away recently. He and his wife June ran the "Fonda Futures Kids Club" for many years and it was definitely a fitting way to honor Ed with the bicycles being donated by the New York State Stock Car Association (NYSSCA).
Ken McGuire led the first lap of the Modified feature from his outside front row start before his front row starting mate Erik Nelson took over the point on lap two on the inside of the backstretch. Alton Palmer, who is Ed Keyser's son in law and was driving with a heavy heart after Ed's passing, started the event in the fifth position but moved into the runner-up spot on lap three after getting by McGuire.
Palmer moved in on the leader by lap five and two laps later on the outside of turn four Alton was the new race leader after getting by Nelson for the spot. Drivers who started back a little further in the pack were making their way to the front as well as Craig Hanson, Mike Mahaney, and Jeremy Wilder made up the top five on lap 10 behind Palmer and Nelson after starting seventh, eighth, and 13th respectively.
Mahaney and Wilder moved one step closer to the front on lap 12 after both got by Nelson for the third and fourth positions with Friesen lingering just outside of the top five in the sixth position. Friesen was picking off cars one by one, lap by lap, and at the halfway point he was in the third position after getting by Mahaney for the spot.
Friesen took over the second position from Hanson on lap 16 with Palmer out to a straightaway lead at that point and racing in lap traffic. Four laps later Friesen closed in on Palmer's rear bumper but Palmer was negotiating lap traffic better than Friesen and maintained the lead with a slight advantage with only five laps to go.
When Palmer had problems getting by a lap car one lap later Friesen closed in and going into turn three on the inside Friesen made his move to take over the lead with only three laps to go and went on for the win over Palmer, Danny Varin (who started 12th), Wilder, and Hanson.
"That was an intense race," Friesen said in victory lane. "Alton (Palmer) ran a heck of a race and I really didn't know if I could get by him or not but when he got held up by a lap car it broke his rhythm and I was able to get by."
The 602 Sportsman feature began with Jack Bublak the early race leader from his front row starting position with John McAuliffe second. McAuliffe took over the race lead on lap three with Justin Auspelmyer the new third place car on lap on lap five after getting by Bublak for the spot.
The one and only caution of the event was out on lap six for Robert Bublak and John Scarborough who were together in the wall between turns one and two. Both drivers were able to continue after visiting the "hot pit" area to have their cars checked over.
On the restart defending track champion Cody Bleau moved into the second position after starting the event in the 12th spot with Rocky Warner the new third place car after starting 10th. Bleau was the new race leader on lap eight after getting by McAuliffe on the inside of turn three and from that point on Bleau pulled away to an easy win in the John Kollar Motorsports #10%.
After a see saw, side by side battle for the runner-up position for many laps Warner crossed under the checkered flag second while McAuliffe, Ray Zemken, and Auspelmyer completed the top five.
"This feels awesome right now," Bleau said in victory lane. "I want to dedicate this win to my car owner John Kollar who called me about this ride over the winter. Anytime you can get a win here at Fonda it is a special win."
Kollar himself has three career wins in the Modified division as a driver at Fonda, the first one coming on July 15, 1995 and the last one coming on August 1, 1998.
The caution plagued CRSA Sprint car feature event began with Jeremy Quick the early race leader after a red flag slowed the event before any laps were completed for Mike Kiser and Tyler Chartrand who wrecked in turn two. Nobody was injured in the wreck.
Quick maintained the lead on the restart while Danny Varin was making his way to the front from his 11th place starting position, moving into the third spot on lap four after getting by both David Evans and Cory Sparks for the spot.
Quick was in lap traffic when the caution came out again on lap eight closing up the field and on the next lap Varin made a pass on the inside of turn three to take over the lead. From that point on the race was for the second spot as Varin pulled away despite two more caution periods that slowed the event. Quick, Sparks, Brett Jaycox, and Evans completed the top five at the checkered flag.
"That was a real strong run for us but it was a close one for the win as I ran out of fuel at the checkered flag," Varin said in victory lane.
Next Saturday, May 4 a regular show in all divisions is on tap at Fonda starting at 7:00 p.m. For more information about the Track of Champions you can go to their website www.fondaspeedway.com
MODIFIED FEATURE - 30-LAPS - STEWART FRIESEN, Alton Palmer, Danny Varin, Jeremy Wilder, Craig Hanson, Matt DeLorenzo, Ronnie Johnson, Jim Davis, Mike Mahaney, Josh Hohenforst, A.J. Romano, Mark Kislowski, JaMike Sowle, Pep Corradi, Mario Clair, Jeff Trombley, Erik Nelson, Justin Boehler, Ken
McGuire, Brian Gleason, Josh Flint, Vinny Sanganetti, Jeff Rockefeller, Darwin Greene, Ed Harris, Dave Lape
602 SPORTSMAN FEATURE - 20-LAPS - CODY BLEAU, Rocky Warner, John McAuliffe, Ray Zemken, Justin Auspelmyer, Floyd Billington, Mark Mortensen, Kory Wilder, Tony Farone, Drew Fallis, Brian Pessolano, Tim Hartman Jr., Connor Cleveland, Chris Shaffer, Dave Constantino, John Scarborough, Ricky Quick, Chip Constantino, Jon Miller, Jack Bublak, Kurtis Hohensheldt, Shea Montgomery, Cody Clark, Greg Havlichek, Larry Niemiec, Scot Straight, Robert Bublak, John Palmer
PRO STOCK FEATURE - 20-LAPS - NICK STONE, Kenny Martin Jr. Chuck Dumblewski, Pete Broderson, Kenny Gates, Ivan Joslin, Dennis Joslin, Luke Horning, Chuck McSpirit, Jim Normoyle, John Bradt, Randy Cosselman, Jeff McPhail, Sid Harmer Jr., Gus Hollner, Wayne Taylor, Harley Sheppard, Cassidy Wilson, Justin Knight, Adam Warner (DNS), Alicia Garner (DNS)
STREET STOCK FEATURE - 10-LAPS - REUBEN KENNEDY JR., Jaime Warner, Rob VanAernam, Rob Veronese, Neil Cosselman, Jerry Cohn, Mark Rubscha, Bob Rose III, Gary English
CRSA SPRINT FEATURE - 20-LAPS - DANNY VARIN, Jeremy Quick, Cory Sparks, Brett Jaycox, Parker Evans, Josh Pieniazek, Mark Taylor, Chad King, Jordan Thomas, John Matrafailo, Joe Kata, Emily VanInwegen, Matt Priscott, Dalton Herrick, Bob Gray, Keith McIntyer, Dan Hennessy, Dustin Purdy, Doug Crews, Art Kiser, Tyler Chartrand, Mike Kiser, Curtis June, Darrell Quackenbush, Jeff VanSteenburg (DNS), Warren Alexson (DNS). Scott Goodrich (DNS)
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Sheppard Back On Track With First Canandaigua Win Of 2013 Season
Canandaigua, NY – April 27, 2013 – Dave Roberts, Canandaigua Motorsports Park PR Correspondent
A beautiful night greeted race fans Saturday night at Canandaigua Motorsports Park as the fast Ontario County Fairgrounds based half-mile oval escaped the rainy and cold weather that has hampered the facility for the previous two weeks.
Matt Sheppard of Waterloo, N.Y. made his presence on the evening known, winning his first of the 2013 campaign. Sheppard took the lead off a lap 27 restart and went on for the 35 lap Team Tiremaster Big-Block Modified victory. Sheppard started 11th on the grid and moved himself through the field.
Sheppard got himself into second on lap 19 and pressured then leader Vic Coffey. Another caution period later on proved to be to his advantage.
“Starting 11th in this field is tough enough. You knew if you could get by these guys, you car was running well,” Sheppard said in victory lane.
It has been a tough go for Sheppard. Saturday night’s win was his first of the 2013 season.
“I’ll tell you, the car has been good, then not good. Tonight, we were really on our game.”
Coffey held on for second-place followed by Vince Vitale, who led the first eleven laps of the feature. Fourth was Danny Johnson, who accidentally hit the outside wall off turn two in the late stages of the event but was able to continue on. Rounding out the top-five was Jimmy Phelps.
Steve Paine was also running in the top-five until lap 32 when he started to slow on the back straight, exiting to the infield.
Heat race winners were Chad Homan, Ron Cartright, Vic Coffey and Vince Vitale. The consi was won by Tyler Siri.
Kevin Ridley took the lead on lap three of the scheduled 25 lap Safety Awareness Solutions main event and captured his first of the 2013 season at Canandaigua. Ridley was strongest off the restarts and was better than three seconds ahead of Dan Wiesner when the duo crossed the finish line.
“This car was so good tonight,” said Ridley in victory lane. “You can go wide-open in three and four while you have to take your foot off the gas just a little in one and two.”
Steve Gray finished third while opening night winner Dave Marcuccilli finished fourth after making a late race pass on fifth-place finisher Paul Guererri.
Heat winners were Paul Guererri, Kevin Ridley, Steve Gray and Eric Giguere. The consolation event was won by Randy McCullough.
In the Castner Performance 305 Sprints, Charlie Donk took his second in a row, leading all 15 laps in the feature event.
“We don’t really put in a lot of stagger here,” Donk said afterwards. “We tighten the car up for this place.”
The top-five was a real family affair. Second was Justin Henderson followed by Darryl Ruggles in third. Rounding out the top-five were Justin’s dad Todd Henderson and Darryl’s daughter Alysha Ruggles.
Heat race winners were Charlie Donk and Darryl Ruggles.
In the Community Car Care of Waterloo New Legend Sportsman, Andrew Jacobson was the winner of the 12 lap feature event. Jacobson led the entire distance.
Following Jacobson to the checkered flag were Nicole Hoag, Josh McMillan, Sarah Johnson and Jason Caldwell.
The heat race winner was also Andrew Jacobson.
Canandaigua Motorsports Park kicks off its second month of action on Saturday, May 4 with American Equipment and Labatt Blue/Blue Light backing a fast-paced six-division show of Team Tiremasters Big-Block Modified, Safety Awareness Solutions Sportsman, Castner Performance 305 Sprint Car, Parts Plus Street Stock, Pure Stock and Community Car Care of Waterloo New Legends Sportsman racing. 1-on-1 Spectator Races fill the card with qualifying rounds going green at 7pm. Pit gates swing open at 4pm with grandstand seating begins at 5pm.
Big Block Modified Feature (35 laps): MATT SHEPPARD, Vic Coffey, Vince Vitale, Danny Johnson, Jimmy Phelps, Billy Dunn, Alan Johnson, Pete Britten, Gary Tomkins, Matt Billings, Chad Homan, Gil Tegg Jr, Tim Currier, Tyler Siri, Rob Bellinger, Matt Fink, Eldon Payne Jr, Brian Sage, Steve Paine, Ron Cartright Jr., Justin Haers, Chuck Bower, Derrick Podsiadlo, Justin Wright.
Lap Leaders: Vitale 1-11, Coffey 12-27, Sheppard 28-35.
QUALIFYING RESULTS:
Heat #1: Chad Homan, Pete Britten, Rob Bellinger, Eldon Payne Jr, Matt Billings, Brian Sage, Dave Rauscher, Greg Birosh.
Heat #2: Vince Vitale, Jimmy Phelps, Justin Haers, Justin Wright, Derrick Podsialdo, Tyler Siri, Marcus Dinkins, Henry Maier.
Heat #3: Vic Coffey, Chuck Maier, Matt Sheppard, Steve Paine, Alan Johnson, Gil Tegg, Mike O’ Brien.
Heat #4: Ron Cartright, Billy Dunn, Danny Johnson, Tim Currier, Matt Fink, Adam Roberts, Don Slover
Consi: Tyler Siri, Matt Fink, Gil Tegg Jr, Brian Sage, Dave Rauscher, Adam Roberts, Henry Maier, Mike O’Brien, Marcus Dinkins, Dave Allen.
Sportsman Modified
*Feature (25 laps): KEVIN RIDLEY, Dan Wiesner, Steve Gray, Dave Marcuccilli, Paul Guererri, AJ Lloyd, Frank Burnell, Ron Davis III, James Henry, Kane Bristol, Karl Comfort, Rob Bussey, AJ Lewis, Daryl Nutting, Tyler Meeks, Matt Guererri, Greg Martin, Billy Brown, Chris Mangiarelli, Eric Giguere, Nick Guererri, Randy McCullough, Jeff Davolli.
Lap Leaders: Paul Guerierri 1-3; Kevin Ridley 4-25.
QUALIFYING RESULTS:
Heat #1: Paul Guererri, Rob Bussey, AJ Lloyd, Daryl Nutting, Greg Cool, Jeff Davolli, Randy McCullough, Jimmy Maier
Heat #2: Kevin Ridley, Ron Davis, James Henry, Tyler Meeks, Billy Brown, Karl Comfort, Kaitlin Pachina
Heat #3: Steve Gray, Greg Martin, Nick Guererri, Dave Marcuccilli, Rob Richmond, Chris Mangiarelli, Matt Richmond
Heat #4: Eric Giguere, Dan Wiesner, Frank Burnell, Kane Bristol, Matt Guererri, AJ Lewis, Jon Ellsworth
Consi: Randy McCullough, Karl Comfort, AJ Lewis, Jeff Davolli, Rob Richmond, Jimmy Maier, Kaitlin Pachina, Matt Richmond, Dan West, John Ellsworth
Castner Performance 305 Sprints
*Feature (15 laps): CHARLIE DONK, Justin Henderson, Darryl Ruggles, Todd Henderson, Alysha Ruggles, Steve Glover, Paul Habeck, Billy Jaycox, Dan Kuhn, Nick Cooper, Mark Tychoniewicz, Jonathan Ruston, Will Glover, Phil Peworchik. Lap Leader: Charlie Donk 1-15.
NEXT EVENT: Sat., May 4 @ 7pm; American Equipment and Labatt Blue/Blue Light present Big-Block Modified/Sportsman/Street Stock/Pure Stock/305 Sprint/New Legends Sportsman plus 1-on-1 Spectator Races.
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Brett Hearn Dominates for 3 in a Row
Saturday April 27, 2013
By: Rodney Rescott
West Lebanon, NY: A gorgeous night of hot racing action settled into the Valley of Speed, as Brett ‘the Jet’ Hearn, continued his dominance at the high banks. The stands were chuck-full of fans watching as Jay Corbin ended Rob Yetman’s win streak, while Tyler Dippel scores 2 in a row in the Budget Sportsman, starting a streak of his own.
The legendary Lebanon Valley Speedway was full of intrigue as the fans got a full night of racing action, and as a bonus, the weather was great! Contractor Sales and Slovak Demolition and Equipment Sales presented the night’s action.
The marquee event, the 30 Lap Big Block Modifieds took to the fast high banked oval with the #77F of Mark Flach Jr out front early, with Steve Hough, hot on his heels. Caution slowed the field early for the #34H of Bobby Hackel IV. But that didn’t slow Flach as he pulled away again, this time, putting plenty of room on 2nd place of Hough.
Deep in the field, though, the #115 of Kenny Tremont Jr and the #20H of Brett Hearn were powering their way through the field, trying to get to the front. By lap 18, Hearn had snuck his way into the runner-up spot, while Tremont got to 3rd by lap 24.
But Tremont could only sit back and watch, as Hearn ran down Flach by lap 26, and powered on to win his 3rd feature in a row. Flach finished 2nd, followed by Tremont. Hough had to settle for 4th, while Kyle Hoffman battled to round out the top 5.
The new Small Block Modifieds put on an Exhibition of sorts, with a 10 lap Dash for Cash, as a prelude to their opening night of points next Saturday night. Jason Herrington scored the win from the point to take home the $200 payday.
The Pro Stock feature had the veteran Danny Sanchez back at the point to try and capture his first win in nearly a handful of years. Sanchez powered his #25S out front and looked to have the field covered. Caution slowed the field on lap 12, putting Robbie Speed in position to challenge Sanchez.
But Speed was nearly a distraction, as Jay Corbin leap frogged past both on lap 16 to take over the top spot. Caution slowed the field again on lap 18 for the now damaged #25S of Sanchez, who retired for the night after making contact with the turn 2 wall.
But Corbin had the field covered, taking his #8 to victory lane for the first time in 2013. Speed finished 2nd while Victor Hopkins battled to finish 3rd. Jason Casey and Kevin Arnold rounded out the top 5 finishers.
The 20 lap Budget Sportsman battle saw the #74 of Chris Lynch power out to an early lead with the #7 of Michael Sabia on his heels. Caution flew for the #24C of Chris Lysogorski spinning in turn 2 collecting a few other racers. All continued except for the Lysogorski.
Lynch continued to comfortable hold the top spot while the field continued to be marred by multiple cautions. The biggest of which was on lap 6 involving 6 cars and causing a brief red flag. 4 of which retired for the night the rest continued with some minor damage.
The caution story continued, but Lynch now had his hands full with last week’s winner Tyler Dippel, as Dippel powered by Lynch on lap 9, and didn’t look back. Caution slowed the field again on lap 17, but Dippel had too much for the rest of the field, and he scored his 2nd win in a row at the mighty high banks.
Lynch had to settle for 2nd while Josh Gaylord, Scott Duso and Tommy Johnson rounded out the top 5.
Next Saturday Night, it’s the debut of the new Small Block Modifieds presented by Boomer’s Performance and Funplex Funpark. Also on tap is the annual Boomer’s Performance Purestock Clash, plus the 4 Cylinders will be on tap and all other weekly divisions.
Saturday April 27, 2013
Big Block Modified Feature (30 Laps): 1)Brett Hearn, 2)Mark Flach Jr, 3)Kenny Tremont Jr, 4)Steve Hough, 5)Kyle Hoffman, 6)Kyle Armstrong, 7)Kyle Sheldon, 8)Kolby Schroder, 9)Eddie Marshall, 10)Andy Bachetti, 11)Donnie Corellis, 12)J.R. Heffner, 13)Rob Pitcher, 14)Mike King, 15)Jimmy Burns, 16)Wayne Jelley, 17)Keith Flach, 18)Brian Berger, 19)Paul Gilardi, 20)Denny Soltis, 21)Bobby Hackel, 22)Jason Harrington (SB), 23)Chad Jeseo (SB), 24)Kim LaVoy, 25)Alan Hotaling, 26)Brett Haas (SB), 27)Chad Pierce (SB), 28)Nick Hotaling
Pro Stock Feature (20 Laps): 1)Jay Corbin, 2)Robbie Speed, 3)Victor Hopkins, 4)Jason Casey, 5)Kevin Arnold, 6)Rob Yetman, 7)Paul LaRochelle, 8)Nick Hilt, 9)Chuck Towslee, 10)Milo Campbell, 11)Bruno Cyr, 12)Tom O'Connor, 13)Rick Dempsey, 14)Don Kennedy, 15)Jason Meltz, 16)Danny Sanchez, 17)Frank Twing, 18)Tom Harkins, 19)Jay Casey, 20)John Santolin
Budget Sportsman (20 Laps): 1)Tyler Dippel, 2)Chris Lynch, 3)Josh Gaylord, 4)Scott Duso, 5)Tommy Johnson, 6)Michael Sabia, 7)Matt Pappa, 8)Peter Carlotto, 9)Ray Hall Jr., 10)Alan Houghtaling, 11)Colin Clow, 12)Jim Bemiss, 13)Greg Catlin, 14)Robbie Speed, 15)Rob Maxon, 16)Zeb Catlin, 17)John Virgilio, 18)Brandon Page, 19)Jack Speshock, 20)Greg DeCamp, 21)Jake Jelley, 22)Brandon Pitcher 23)Mike Verhagen, 24)Cody Ochs, 25)Rob Knipe, 26)Todd Lane, 27)Brian Peterson, 28)Whitey Slavin, 29)Brandon Piastka, 30)Ricky Davis, 31)Timothy Davis 2nd, 32)Chris Lysogorski, 33)Milo Campbell, 34)Courtney Campbell
Small Block Modified Dash (10 Laps): 1) Jason Herrington
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BEAU WILKINS BACK IN VICTORY IN DELAWARE BIG BLOCKS
By CHARLIE BROWN, DELMAR, DE – Beau Wilkins of Milford, Del. came ever so close on more than one occasion to picking up a feature win but is was not to be. Over the winter the team regrouped and went over the car from top to bottom. Their work proved to be worthwhile as the second generation driver led wire-to-wire to capture the William J. & Juanita Cathell Memorial 25-lap NAPA Big Block Modified Feature.
Right from the drop of the green the race was in Wilkins’ hands as he jumped out front from the pole. Jeff Brown held on to second until H.J. Bunting took the spot on lap five. Opening night winner, Matt Jester worked from eighth to fourth and Robert Dutton held fifth.
Brad Trice was on the move taking fourth on lap seven. By lap 12 he had gotten by Jester and was running in third. Four cautions spread through the final eight laps would keep Wilkins from building any momentum. Howard O’Neal was putting on a good drive getting by both Brown and Dutton for fifth .
Wilkins controlled the high groove and made no mistakes on the restarts to drive to the victory in the Blairview Farms/Dan Denny/Bicknell. “I knew H.J. was right behind me,” said Wilkins. “So I knew I couldn’t make any mistakes.”
Bunting finished in the second spot with Trice third. Fourth went to Jester and O’Neal rounded out the top five. Heats were won by Bunting and O’Neal.
In the 15-lap AC Delco PSC Modified feature, defending point champion, Jordan Watson wasted no time and he pulled past pole sitter, Joe Tracy to lead lap one. Once out front, Watson would make no mistakes and was never seriously challenged for the lead for the remainder of the distance.
Greg Humlhanz returned to racing substituting for his son Eric. The former Big Block Rookie of the year held on to third for the entire distance. Bryan Brasure held fourth until lap five when Cameron Bellinger took the spot. John Curtis put on a three car battle with Brasure and Bellinger taking fourth on the final lap with Bellinger finishing in the fifth spot. It was the second straight win for Watson in the Courtland Manor/Bicknell. Heats were won by Bellinger and Tyler Reed.
The caution would come out with five to go pulling Sapp on the back bumper of Stratton. Stratton had no issues with the restart and drove to his second consecutive win in the Bruce Evans Racing/Pro. Sapp would finish in the second spot with Gulliver third. Landis Musser came on strong in the closing laps to finish in fourth as did Jason Musser who finished in fifth. Heats were won by Nash and Gulliver.
A strong field of Super Late Models were on hand with Austin Hubbard, Mark Byram and Rob Schirmer all making their first starts of the season. Staci Warrington was fast from the start with Brandon Dennis chasing from second. David Hill was on a charge taking second from Dennis on lap four. Rick Elliott had started in the eighth spot and followed Hill into third.
One lap later Elliott took the second spot and in three laps had chased down Warrington. Elliott made the lead pass coming off the fourth turn for lap nine. At the halfway sign the top five were Elliott, Warrington Hill, Donald Lingo, Jr. and Hubbard, who had started last.
The race would remain caution free and the top five unchanged until Byram rolled to a stop with two laps to go. This would wipe out Elliott’s big lead. On the restart, Hubbard made a bid to pass both Hill and Lingo, Jr. but went off the top of the second turn and spun to a stop.
Lingo, Jr. grabbed second on the restart but could not run down the speeding Elliott who picked up his second consecutive win in the J&M Roofing/Rocket. “The track was perfect,” said Elliott. “There’s not one dominate groove and I like it when it’s like that.” Lingo, Jr. finished in the second spot with Hill third. Warrington ended a good drive in fourth and Nick Davis picked up fifth. Heats were won by Hubbard and Elliott.
Matt Hill took control of the 15-lap Crated Model feature from the drop of the green. Joe Warren got by Derek Magee to take second with Mike Wharton and Tyler Reed battling for fourth. The one and only cautions of the race came on lap seven when David Nailor rolled to a stop.
Just past the halfway sign, Sparky White began to make a move. White took the fifth spot with six to go. Hill would remain flawless as the defending champion drove to his first win of the season in the Lynch’s Towing/Rocket. Warren finished a little over a second back in the runner-up spot with Magee posting a personal best in third. Fourth went to Wharton and White rounded out the top five. Heats were won by Wharton and Warren.
Big Block Finish: 1. Beau Wilkins; 2. H.J. Bunting; 3. Brad Trice; 4. Matt Jester; 5. Howard O’Neal; 6. Robert Dutton; 7. Dana Walker; 8. Scott VanGorder; 9. Shawn Ward; 10. Matt Hawkins; 11. Jeff Brown; 12. Kyle Fuller; 13. Dale Hawkins; 14. Jamie Mills; 15. Duane Rust; 16. Art Valdesere, Jr. DNS: Bobby Watkins.
AC Delco Modified Finish: 1. Jordan Watson; 2. Joe Tracy; 3. Greg Humlhanz; 4. John Curtis; 5. Cameron Bellinger; 6. Trent Willey; 7. Dwayne Crockett; 8. Brandon Watkins; 9. Chad Clark; 10. Richie Wilson; 11. Tyler Reed; 12. Garrie Bostwick; 13. Nick Alberti; 14. Danny Smack; 15. Bryan Brasure; 16. Herbie Hempel; 17. Will Bratten; 18. Shawn Weber; 19. Wesley Smack; 20. Jeff Coffey; 21. Scott Hitchens; 22. Tim Trimble; 23. Brandon Blades.
Super Late Model Finish: 1. Ricky Elliott; 2. Donald Lingo, Jr.; 3. David Hill; 4. Staci Warrington; 5. Nick Davis; 6. Brandon Dennis; 7. Kerry King, Jr.; 8. Rob Schirmer; 9. Bob Geiger; 10. Austin Hubbard; 11. Mark Byram; 12. Kerry King; 13. Lou Johnson.
Crate Model Finish: 1. Matt Hill; 2. Joe Warren; 3. Derek Magee; 4. Mike Wharton; 5. Sparky White; 6. Tyler Reed; 7. Dylan Evans; 8. Reese Masiello; 9. Robbie Walls, Jr.; 10. Mike Wilson; 11. T.J. Williams; 12. Randy Given; 13. Kellie Lewis; 14. Steven Baker; 15. Alyssa Young; 16. Robby Cain; 17. David Nailor; 18. Tim Williams.
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Billy Decker Wins The Brewerton Speedway Opener After Hot Battle With Chuck Bower And Matt Sheppard
BREWERTON, NY - APRIL 26, 2013 (By Dave Medler) - Friday night the Brewerton Speedway kicked off the new season with a bang in the Tracey Road Equipment Big Block Modifieds. In the 35 lap feature Billy Decker grabbed the lead from Chuck Bower on lap 22, and then had to hold off a furious late charge in traffic from Matt Sheppard to pick up the narrow victory on Ferris Industries night.
Other winners on opening night were, Chris Fleming, Nationwide Insurance IMCA Modifieds, Tim Devendorf, Anchor Bar & Grill Mod Lites. Chuck Powelczyk grabbed a pair of wins in the 2012 holdover Outlaw 200 Weekend Four Cylinder Open and the Four Cylinder Super Stocks.
Ryan Bartlett and Chuck Bower brought down the 800 HP Tracey Road Equipment Big Block Modified field down to Dave Farney's green flag with Bower snagging the early lead in the 35 lap main.
With 5 laps complete, Bower held a four-car advantage over Billy Decker, Matt Sheppard and Dale Planck, who will be a Friday night regular in the Rood Racing No.77x.
By lap 10, Bower opened a half a straightaway lead as Decker, Sheppard and Planck were in a tight battle with Ryan Phelps running a few car lengths back in fifth.
On lap 15, Bower caught the back of the field, and that allowed Decker and Sheppard to rapidly close in with Planck and Phelps still showing in the top-five.
With Farney showing the halfway sign, you could of thrown a blanket over Bower, Decker and Sheppard as the trio was in midseason form exciting everyone in attendance.
With Decker running the top of the speedway most of the race and Bower the bottom, Decker was able to drive around Bower on lap 22 to be scored the new leader.
With 10 laps to go Decker was still turning quick laps as Bower and Sheppard tried to keep pace as Planck and Phelps still showed in the top-five.
On lap 26, Sheppard moved into the runner-up spot as he took off after Decker as this race was far from over.
Over the last 5 laps Decker and Sheppard put on a battle royal as they battled in and out of lapped traffic, but in the end Decker was a touch quicker as he was the first under the checkers for the exciting win. Bower, Planck and Ryan Phelps rounded out the top-five.
In victory lane with a tire going rapidly soft, Decker exited his Gypsum Wholesalers, Stadium International Trucks, Integra Racing Shocks, NAPA Auto Parts, Bicknell, No.91 to talk about his win.
"It feels good to be here let me tell you, it was another hard fought win here at the Brewerton Speedway. I'm not sure I had the best car, but had the preferred line the last 5-6 laps, I think we got away with one tonight.
"He was strong ( Chuck Bower) Dale(Planck) and Matt (Sheppard) were going to be right there. My car was a little tight early. I got balanced really good and then it started going away towards the end. It was very typical, things change a lot here at Brewerton. You have to move around. I thought Matt was going to roll us on the top, then I got him cleared and went to the top and was able to get around Chuck, it's flat-out exciting racing here."
Decker finished up talking about the all-out last lap fight with Sheppard. "I thought Katelyn (Kane) and the other car were going low, so I picked the top-line and hoped for the best. Everyone held their line and I kind of used that car as a pick knowing there wasn't room for five-six wide, so it worked out."
Decker related what super shape the track was in for the first race of the season with multiple lanes of racing and smooth. Hats off to Eric Fink and his track-prep.
Chris Fleming started out the 2013 season the same way he ended 2012, in victory lane in the Nationwide Insurance IMCA Modifieds. Fleming took the lead on the opening lap and was never headed after that. Kevan Cook, Dane Keller Jr., Todd Stone and Jim Walsh finished second through the fifth.
Tim Devendorf racked up another win in the Anchor Bar & Grill Mod Lites rim riding his way to the checkers. Gary Jeffries, Mike Mullen, Jeff Isabell Jr. and Kyle Demo chased Devendorf across the line.
Chuck Powelczyk grabbed a pair of wins, as he won the 2012 holdover Outlaw 200 Weekend Four Cylinder Open and the Four Cylinder Super Stock features.
This coming Friday, May 3rd, Ehrlich The Pest Control Experts presents another exciting night of high speed dirt action. On the race card will be the Tracey Road Equipment Big Block Modifieds, Nationwide Insurance IMCA Modifieds, Anchor Bar & Grill Mod Lites and the Four Cylinder Super Stocks. 2012 Track Champions will also be crowned.
Gates will open Friday, May 3rd, at 5:30, with the first green flag to wave at 7:30. General admission will be $12 with everyone 18 yrs old and younger admitted free to the grandstand. Pit admission will be $25 for members/$30 non-members.
BIG BLOCK MODIFIEDS 35 LAPS) - BILLY DECKER, Matt Sheppard, Chuck Bower, Dale Planck, Ryan Phelps, Tim Sears Jr., Robbie Bellinger, Willy Decker, Larry Wight, Pat Ward, Tom Sears Jr., Dan Vauter, Alan Johnson, Chris Hile, Jim Witko, Chad Phelps, Joe August Jr., Johnny Hill, Katelyn Kane, Ryan Bartlett, Jimmy Phelps, Matt Hulsizer.
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HILFIGER, ROONEY, WIN AT PENN CAN
Grant Hilfiger cracks open season in Victory Lane at Penn Can Speedway
-Paul Rooney, Steve Deinhardt and Nick Mady also win openers-
BY RYAN LEPRE
SUSQUEHANNA, PA April 26th 2013
Penn Can Speedway opened the gates for the first time in 2013 on a brisk Friday night in front of a large crowd for the “Can Opener”. The Modified main event saw Grant Hilfiger of Canadensis, PA hold off challenges from both Mike Schane and Joey Colsten to take his second career Modified win on MXM Motorsports Night. Paul Rooney led wire to wire for the 602 Sportsman win while Steve Deinhardt outdistance the Street Stock field. Nick Mady (Xcel Modifieds) George Brown (Factory Stocks) and Kenny Underwood (4 Cylinders) also parked in victory lane on opening night.
Bobby Trapper Jr. and Grant Hilfiger led the 25 Modifieds to the green flag with Hilfiger snagging the lead ahead of Mike Schane and Trapper. Schane quickly closed on Hilfiger and on lap three the leaders raced side by side. Schane moved to the point past Hilfiger with Kyle Rohner, Trapper and Steve Babicek then front five. The first caution flew on lap six for Ken Titus when racing resumed Schane led Hilfiger, Rohner, Babicek and Nick Rochinski.
Schane was pulling away when the caution flew as fourth running Babicek stopped with rear end issues. The caution came back out for a multi-car tangle that started when Trapper Jr ran into a yuke tire and collected four other cars. Schane got warned by race officials for setting too slow of a pace and on the restart Hilfiger used the outside lane to take the lead on lap 13.
Hilfiger and Schane raced side by side for four laps with Rochinski, ninth starter Joey Colsten and Alan Rudalavage then top five. Eleventh starter Billy Thornton cracked the top five on lap 19 while the top three raced closely. Schane pitched it deep into turn three and was about to spun when the oncoming Rochinski who was also committed to the inside shoot through the infield ditch to avoid Schane.
The caution never waved as the incident saw Schane drop to fourth and Rochinski to eighth. The top five now was Hilfiger, Colsten, Thornton, Schane and Rudalavage.
With ten laps to go Colsten and Thornton were reeling in leader Hilfiger when the caution flew for Christine Martin.
Hilfiger pulled away in the final five laps to take his second Modified win and first in his own Walker Plumbing/Thornton Graphix Morgantini powered No.78 Bicknell. Joey Colsten of Binghamton, NY in the Gary’s U-Pull-It No.151 Troyer placed second with Billy Thornton in his Bill Thornton powered No.11 Teo finishing third.
Alan Rudalavage of Newton Lake, PA was fourth while Schane of Lake Ariel, PA completed the top five. The rest of the top ten were Bob Trapper, Kyle Rohner who made his first ever Modified start, Kevin Hartnett, Bob Hamm and Dan Pompey.
“This is cool I won the opener the last three years in the 602 Sportsman but this is way cooler.” said Hilfiger “Schane was hurting me on those restarts but once I got going this Bicknell car was good. I put it to the floor on that final restart and it stuck to the track you couldn’t ask for a better track it had bite and a little character.”
Paul Rooney led from the start on the 602 Sportsman main with Dusty Barton and Butch Green trailing. Jay Wood climbed the turn three dirt bank and tipped his ride on its roof the driver was uninjured. The
best racing in the event was for the fifth spot between Donnie Lawson, Grant Hilfiger and Kyle Rohner. Although Barton tried to wrestle the lead from Rooney on several restarts Rooney went on to take the win over Barton, Green, Alex Stanton and Lawson.
The Street Stock main was led by Ricky Davis Sr. on lap one before Steve Deinhardt moved from third to the lead on lap two. Deinhardt held a comfortable lead while Ryan Stone and Earl Zimmer battled it out for second. A mid race caution set up a tight battle for second through fifth. Deinhardt easily took the win ahead of Zimmer, Shane Wolf Jr. Jon Carpenter and Stone.
In the Factory Stocks George Brown took the win over Gary Cleveland and Nathan Hill. Kenny Underwood won the Four Cylinder event over Jason Colwell and Matt Hynds.
Notes: Modified Heat races were won by Nick Rochinski, Alan Rudalavage, Joey Colsten and Grant Hilfiger…..Several former Penn Can stars made returns on Friday night as former track champion Jeff Rudalavage wheeled a second Pine Line Auto No.145 and George Kostelansky made his first start at Penn Can is several seasons…...Next Friday night racing will feature the Modifieds, Twin 20’s for the 602 Sportsman, Street Stocks, Factory Stocks and Four Cylinders. Gates will open at 5:15 with racing at 7:30. Anyone with questions can contact the speedway at 570-585-9928 or check us out on the web at www.penncan.com.
Modified Feature: Grant Hilfiger, Joey Colsten, Billy Thornton, Al Rudalavage, Mike Schane, Bob Trapper,, Kyle Rohner, Kevin Hartnett, Bob Hamm, Dan Pompey, Brian Malcolm, Nick Rochinski, Adam MacGeorge, Bobby Trapper, Mike Marold Jr, Alan Kellogg, John Siedlecky, Christine Martin, Heath Metzger, Mike Nagel, Ken Titus, Jeff Rudalavage, Mike Nagel Jr, Steve Babicek, George Kostelansky
602 Sportsman Feature: Paul Rooney, Dusty Barton, Butch Green, Alex Stanton, Donnie Lawson, Grant Hilfiger, Kyle Rohner, Randy Gates, Corey Ziegler, Jeff Powell, Jamie Cortazar, Bob Janesky, Rich Powell, Wes Campbell, Mike Diehl, Nick Branning, Jay Wood
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Albany-Saratoga Speedway
Friday
Modified Feature: Brett Hearn, Stewart Friesen, Pete Britten, Ronnie Johnson, Matt Delorenzo, A.J.Romano, Kenny Tremont, Jeremy Wilder, Bodie Bellinger, Marc Johnson, Keith Flach, Matt Depew, Pep Corradi, Mark Kislowski, Jimmy Cottrell, Justin Boehler, Mike Perrotte, C. G. Morey, Floyd Billington, Tony Ballestero, John Lutes, Jr., Ray Hoard, Neil Stratton, Rich Ronca, Don Ronca, Brian Gleason, Jeff Trombley,
DNS Chris Busta, DNS John Proctor
Sportsman Feature: Derrick McGrew, Scott Duell, Cody Bleau, Paul Dunham, Jack Gentile, Dan Santabarbara, Joey Scarborough, Andy Durie, Robert Bublak, Joe Orlando, D.J. Brundige, Mike Tholin, Jack Swinton, Jeremy Pitts, Jake Scarborough, Mike Jeske, Dave Baranowski Jr., Adam McAuliffe, Mark Hughes, Derek Speshock, Frank Hoard III, Pete Jeske, Jon Miller, Stan Lemiesz, Luke Klob, Mike Burdo, Brett Wright, Nick Anatriello
DNQ Fred Mullberger, Nick Lussier, Elliott Lussier, Nelson Passino, Chuck Dickinson, Fred Proctor, Mike Ostrander, Eric Mack, Seth Roberts, Jim Osgod, Leo Sousie
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Brewerton Speedway Test & Tune In The Books; Season Opener This Friday April 26
BREWERTON, NY - APRIL 25, 2013 (By Dave Medler) - With great track conditions and what looked to be a record number of cars for a Test & Tune, everything now points to this Friday night April 26 and the opening to the 2013 season presented by Ferris Mowers.
On the exciting race card will be the ground pounding, 800 horsepower Tracey Road Equipment Big Block Modifieds, Nationwide Insurance IMCA Modifieds, Anchor Bar & Grill Mod Lites, Four Cylinder Super Stocks plus the holdover Outlaw 200 weekend Four Cylinder Open.
Jimmy Phelps will be back to defend his Tracey Road Equipment Big Block Modified championship with a new look for his J&B Installations, Andy Phelps Racing, No.99J, Troyer. With ten different feature winners last season and a field that has names weekly like Billy Decker, Matt Sheppard, Ryan Phelps, Larry Wight, Alan Johnson, Pat Ward, Chuck Bower, Rob Bellinger, Chad Phelps, , Dale Planck and others, it's easy to see why the "D-Shaped Dirt Demon" has one of the toughest field of cars anywhere in the Northeast.
In 2012 in the Nationwide Insurance IMCA Modifieds the points battle came down to the final night that saw Canadian Ryan Scott edge out Kevan Cook by one-point. Look for a great season as a lot of drivers have stepped up their game for the new season to challenge Scott and Cook for the title.
Nine different drivers found victory lane last season in the Anchor Bar & Grill Mod Lites where Mike Mullen grabbed his first popular track championship. This high speed class has around 30 solid cars on a weekly basis.
Zak Petrie won the 2012 track championship in the Four-Cylinder Super Stocks but Chuck Powelczyk led the way in grabbing checkered flags with ten victories. This class always puts on exciting feature events that most nights go caution free.
Ferris Industries, the commercial mower specialists, have earned their reputation by delivering their customers high quality products and solutions for over 100 years. You can be sure Ferris will keep you on the cutting edge, with innovative mower designs and technology, for years to come. Ferris mowers are the only mowers in the industry that offer patented suspension technology. Experience the difference suspension makes! Ferris...Go The Extra Yard! please visit http://www.ferrisindustries.com/us/en/ for all your home and commercial needs. As always support those who support racing.
Gates will open Friday, April 26, at 5:30, with the first green flag of the new season to wave at 7:30. General admission will be $12 with everyone 18 yrs old and younger admitted free to the grandstand. Pit admission will be $25 for members/$30 non-members.
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"STEEL VALLEY THUNDER" WEEKLY 6-DIVISION RACING RETURNS SATURDAY TO SHARON
By Mike Leone
Hartford, OH April 24, 2013 After a rainout and a special race event last Saturday night, weekly "Steel Valley Thunder" racing action returns to Sharon Speedway this Saturday night, April 27. Racing will get underway at 7 p.m. featuring a six-division program of Governor Insurance Agency DIRTcar Big-Block Modifieds, Barris Supply RUSH Late Models, Summit Racing Equipment Modifieds, Gibson Insurance Agency Stock Cars, HTMA/Precise Racing Products Econo Mods, and the Deforest Used Parts Mini Stocks.
Saturday's promotion includes free admission for youth sports and scouts in uniform. Saturday's home-cooked meal is beef macaroni with roll and butter. Once again Saturday night, one lucky boy and girl under the age of 14 will win a bicycle or scooter thanks to King Bros. This promotion will continue throughout the 2013 season.
"It's looking like a beautiful Saturday," stated Dave Willoughby. "Sunshine and temps near 70 will be well appreciated after fighting the weather since back to the snowmobile races and every event to date. It'll be nice for everyone to be able to enjoy a night of racing!"
With rainouts and special events, the regional DIRTcar Big-Block Modifieds are anxious to get back on the speedway. A nice field of 19 cars turned out for the April 6 opener from three different states. In the end, it was a King show as Rex, Jr. topped Rex, Sr. in the 20-lap Governor Insurance Agency feature to get an early jump on the points. While his father is a four-time track champion, "Cooter" has never won a track championship and has the early lead on his father.
Dennis Lunger, Jr. went down in the history books as the first ever RUSH-sanctioned winner in the 20-lap Barris Supply feature. Lunger will look to make it three-straight Late Model wins at Sharon Saturday and gain important points toward the $5,000 to-win Sweeney Chevrolet Buick GMC Weekly Series Championship.
A couple of Sharon racers in Josh Double and Eric Wilson went on the road and competed in the first ever Sweeney Chevrolet Touring Series event last Saturday at Hagerstown. Double, the 2011 champion, was the hard charger in the feature. Double will be making his first Sharon start of the season Saturday as will be several other racers including 2012 champion Will Thomas III.
The Modifieds are one of three divisions entering their third week of competition Saturday. Jeff Johnson was impressive winning the opener, while New York's Randy Hall invaded for the UEMS-sanctioned event last Saturday and picked up the $1,000 victory. Another New York racer, John Boardman, has the point lead. Already 35 different drivers have participated after two weeks of action with others due out soon.
The Stock Cars will be ready to return after not competing since the April 6 opener when Mike Clark picked up the victory. Clark has won all five of his career wins in the last year and a half despite racing nearly 17 years. Clark is one of the contenders for the Gibson Insurance Agency feature, which would be his first track championship anywhere.
The Econo Mods have become an excellent class for young racers to hone their racing talents, for veteran racers still wanting to compete, and an opportunity for others to participate without spending a lot of money. Young Jeremy Double and Ryan Fraley have split wins in the first two weeks. For Fraley, who is beginning his second full season of competition, the win was the first of his career. Twelve-year-old Jacob Eucker has already led HTMA/Precise Racing Products feature laps both weeks and currently sits in a tie for third in points with Steve Burns, Jr., while trailing point leader Fraley and Double.
By virtue of his fifth career victory last Saturday night, Scott Gilliland has jumped out to the point lead in the Deforest Used Parts Mini Stocks. Like most of the other point leaders, the Warren, Ohio driver has never won a track championship anywhere. Gilliland is up five points on 2011 champion and opening night winner Bill Fuchs. Last year's champion and eight-time winner, Jim Haefke, Jr., is mired in sixth place in points after a tough start.
Pits open at 4 p.m. Saturday with grandstands at 5 and heat races slated for 7. Grandstand admission for those 14 and are over is $13, while children under 14 are always free. Pit passes are $25. Parking and camping is always free.
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RACE OF CHAMPIONS SPORTSMAN INVADES UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY THIS SUNDAY APRIL 28, JOINING REGULAR SHOW OF MODIFIEDS, PRO STOCKS, AND PURE STOCKS
VERNON, NY- The 2013 season continues this Sunday, April 28, at the Utica-Rome Speedway after an exciting opening night this past Sunday. Rasmussen Rents will present this weekend’s activities which will include the first of two stops by the Race of Champions Sportsman Series along with a regular show for the Modifieds, Pro Stocks, and Pure Stocks. Race time is 6 p.m. with gates opening at 3:30 p.m.
Ronnie Johnson bested a stellar field of Modifieds this past Sunday, fending off a hard charging Billy Decker in the late stages of the 30 lapper to take the emotional win. This week, Johnson will look to repeat that performance while regulars such as defending track champion Stewart Friesen, Pat Ward, Matt Sheppard, Mike Mahaney, Willy Decker, Jason Rood, Casey Williams, Todd Burley, Jimmy Davis, and more will be looking for the $2,000 payday for themselves. Will it be one already mentioned drivers finding victory lane or will it be one of the many other talented drivers in the field? Come on out Sunday to find the answer to that question.
The Race of Champions Sportsman Series will be on hand also, with many of the top Sportsman drivers in the region looking to take home the $1,000 winner’s check. Can Claude Hutchings, Jr., Jeremy Vunk, AJ Filbeck, defending Utica-Rome champion Matt Janczuk, Steve Way, or any one of the other track regulars hold off the visiting RoC regulars for the win? Utica-Rome regulars have had great success in the past as they have yet to let an invader win but this year could be different with the talented field expected to be on hand. Currently, Jim Housworth is the series point leader over Hutchings, Clay Butler, Ken Hammond, Rich Rutski, Eddie White, Danny Tyler, DJ Ruppert, Alan Barker, and Nick Petrilak.
In the Pro Stocks and Pure Stocks, both defending champions started 2013 right where they ended 2012, at the top of the standings and in victory. Tom Denton drove a determined race to score the win in the Pro Stocks this past Sunday while Ron Hawker waged an epic race long battle with Tim Janczuk to take the Pure Stock victory. Both will look to repeat in their respective division this Sunday in regular events for both classes.
For more information, please log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com or call the speedway office at (315)829-4557. Information on the Race of Champions Series can be found at www.rocdirt.com.
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RONNIE JOHNSON HOLD OFF BILLY DECKER IN OPENING NIGHT THRILLER AT UTICA-ROME SPEEDWAY
VERNON, NY- The 52nd season at Utica-Rome Speedway kicked off with bang this past Sunday evening, April 21, with exciting night of racing thrilled the race fans on a chilly spring evening. Both the Modified winner, Ronne Johnson, and Pro Stock winner, Tom Denton, shared an emotional victory lane, dedicating their wins to loved ones who had recently passed. The Sportsman victory lane saw an excited first time winner in Claude Hutchings, Jr. while the Pure Stocks saw a regular to victory lane in Ron Hawker.
Brad Alger and Jason Rood would be the 25 car starting field down to the green flag to start to start the 30 Modified main event, with Alger shown as the leader for the opening circuit. Lap two saw Rood take advantage of an Alger miscue to lead lap two with the field coming under caution shortly thereafter for a disabled car in turn one. The restart saw fourth place starter Ronnie Johnson charged to the lead while the rest of the field shuffled for position behind him. With Johnson pulling away in front, it was a dogfight behind him as Rood, Mike Mahaney, Stewart Friesen, and Billy Decker battled for the remaining top five spots. Behind that tight group of cars was another group trying to move up through the pack which included Willy Decker, Chris Hile, Matt Sheppard, Casey Williams, and Larry Wight.
Two more caution periods slowed the pace but Johnson was up to the task on each restart as he pulled away, leaving the field behind him. Billy Decker was all over the runner-up Rood for that spot and was finally able to wrestle it away on lap 13. At the halfway point, the leader board showed Johnson, Billy Decker, Rood, Friesen, and Willy Decker as the top five.
On lap 20, Johnson started to enter lapped traffic which allowed Billy Decker to close in and challenge for the lead. By lap 25, Decker was on the rear bumper as the duo negotiated the heavy lapped traffic, and a lap later, Decker was able to slip underneath Johnson for the lead as the duo came out of turn four. Johnson would charge back by off the top of turn two to regain the lead while Decker got caught up in the same traffic that gave him the lead initially. Johnson would hang on to score the big opening night win followed closely by Decker, Friesen, Sheppard, Mahaney, Willy Decker, Rood, Williams, Wight, and Todd Burley. Johnson dedicated the win to Ed Keyser, father of his race team’s co-owner Carole Palmer.
In the Sportsman 20 lap feature event, Jeremy Vunk used his pole starting spot to his advantage as he took early command of the event with AJ Filbeck and Claude Hutchings, Jr. his early pursuers. Vunk looked to have the race under control in the early stages but Hutchings had other ideas as he slipped by Filbeck for the runner-up spot on lap six, and by lap seven, he was all over the leader. As the field came down to the line to complete lap eight, Hutchings made his move to the point and passed Vunk for the lead. Hutchings would remain out front for the remainder of the distance to claim his first ever Utica-Rome Speedway Sportsman win. Vunk came home in second followed by Filbeck, defending champion Matt Janczuk, and Steve Way.
Defending Pro Stock champion Tom Denton and Mark Effner brought the Pro Stock field down to the green flag in the their 20 lap feature, with Effner grabbing the early lead. Effner would show the quick way around for the first three circuits with fourth place starter Chris Carr taking over the lead on lap four. After falling back to third place, Denton would begin to rebound as moved back into second on lap six and into the lead on lap seven. Denton would remain the leader for the rest of the main event despite Carr’s repeated attempt to take back the lead. Carr would have to settle for second followed by Bret Belden, Glenn Forward, and Pete Stefanski. In an emotional victory lane, Denton would dedicate the win to his father Paul Denton who passed away last week.
Pure Stock pole sitter Tim Janczuk and fifth place starter Ron Hawker put on a race long and entertaining battle and for the win in the 15 lap Pure Stock main event. The duo would swap the top spot lap after lap with defending champion Hawker finally able to wrestle away the lead for good to capture the opening night. Janczuk would chase Hawker the finish line with Bill Mason, Rick Breed, and Frank Hyatt rounding out the top five.
Next week on April 28, Rasmussen Rents will present the night’s activities featuring the Race of Champions Sportsman Series plus a regular show of Modifieds, Pro Stocks, and Pure Stocks. Race time is 6 p.m. with gates opening at 3:30 p.m. For more information, log on to www.uticaromespeedway.com or call the speedway office at (315)829-4557.
52nd SEASON OPENER RACE SUMMARY
MODIFIED FEATURE FINISH(30 LAPS)– RONNIE JOHNSON, Billy Decker, Stewart Friesen, Matt Sheppard, Mike Mahaney, Willy Decker, Jason Rood, Casey Williams, Larry Wight, Todd Burley, Jimmy Davis, Brad Alger, Danny Varin, Robby Bellinger, Matt Billings, Pat Ward, Ryan Phelps, Matt Fink, Matt Hulsizer, Rocky Warner, Darwin Greene, Chris Hile, Tim Fuller, Alan Johnson, and Mike Bowman. DNQ-Adam Roberts, Aaron Jacobs, Jim Walsh, Eldon Payne, Jr., Dave Allen, Jeff Rockefeller, Bobby Varin, Dave Moyer, Chad Homan, and Dale Planck.
SPORTSMAN FEATURE FINISH(20 LAPS)- CLAUDE HUTCHINGS JR., Jeremy Vunk, A.J. Filbeck, Matt Janczuk, Steve Way, Chris Mackey, Tye-Scott Rood, Jessica Zemken, Randy Shantel, Heath Carney, Rusty Smith, Mike Stiles, Jack Miller, Brandon Walter, Craig Pope, Chad Ray, Jason Occhino, Chris McCoy, Robert Barker, Bobby Heintz, Chris Hulsizer, Toby Klish, Brandon Kuhn, and Stephen Denton.
PRO STOCK FEATURE FINISH(20 LAPS)– TOM DENTON, Chris Carr, Bret Belden, Glenn Forward, Pete Stefanski, Joe Palmer, Dana Camenga, Jim Money, Dan Lasure, Andy Lashure, Corie Locke, Ed Ostrander, Mark Effner, Shawn Frost, and A.J. Digsby.
-end-
Orange County Fair Speedway
Big Block Modifieds
1.Jeff Heotzler Sr.
2.Tim Hindley
3.Craig Mitchell
4.Chris Schultz
5.Clinton Mills
6.Tommy Meier
7.Steve Dodd
8.Jerry Higbie
9.Rich Eurich
10.Chuck McKee
11.John Lieto
12.Billy VanInwegen
13.Mike Kolka
14.John Ferrier
15.Jackie Brown
16.Bobby Varin
17.Neil Harris
18.Jeremy Markle
19.Ric Hill
20.Bob McGannon
21.Jessie Kline
22.Shane Jablonka
23.Chris Whitehead
DNS Donnie Wilson
DNS Bill Pascual
DQ Mike Ruggeiro
358 modifieds
1.Gary Edwards Jr.
2.Chuck McKee
3.Bob McGannon
4.Scott Flammer
5.Chris Schultz
6.John Finley
7.Jeremy Markle
8.Mel Schrufer
9.RJ Smykla
10.Jessie Kline
11.Rob Rowe
12.Joe Barbagallo
13.Kirk Horton
14.Mark Bishop
15.Richard Smith
16.Gary Predmore
17.Bobby Hentschel
18.Justin Gozzi
19.Ted Zacher
20.Danny Creeden
21.Brian Krummel
DNS Ken Boniface
DNS Steve Pinto
DNS John Lodini
Sportsman modifieds
1. Joe Conklin
2. Brian Krummel
3. Tyler Boniface
4. Jimmy Spellmon
5. Tyler Mckee
6. L J Lombardo
7 .John Illanovsky
8. Frank Doty
9. Bryanna Hurban
10. Mike Dutka
11. Tommy Vigh
12. Joe Falanga
13. Randy Sweetman
14. Dave Werber
15. R J Smith
16. Christian Rumsey
17. Zack Vavricka
18. Chris Stevens
19. Danny Cronk
20. Kyle Cicio
21. Anthony Perrego
22. Matt Janiak
23. Eddie Burgess
-end-
MR. FREEZE WINS ON A FREEZING COLD NIGHT AT FONDA
He is known as “Mr. Freeze” and he made the most of a freezing cold night at the Track of Champions Fonda Speedway on Saturday evening as he went on to his first win of the 2013 season and the 11th of his career in the Modified division at Fonda.
“What a great race car and I have to thank Thad (car owner Thad Parks) for that,” Friesen said in victory lane. “The 3D (Matt DeLorenzo) had a fast hot rod and what a great race it was as I was able to get to him, then he would get away from me, but fortunately we were able to get by him for the win. The beer is going to taste real good tonight.”
Other winners on a night that saw snow flurries fall at times during the racing program were Mark Mortensen (602 Sportsman), Pete Broderson (Pro Stock), Reuben Kennedy Jr. (Street Stock), Ken Hollenback (single cam) and Kerrie Hollenback (dual cam) in the 4-cylinder class.
Before the start of the Pro Stock feature event a moment of silence was observed for Ed Keyser who passed away last week. Ed was a fixture at the Track of Champions as a huge part of the Palmer’s Service Racing Team owned by his daughter Carole and also headed up the Fonda Futures Kid’s Club with his wife June.
At the drop of Denny Tilison’s green flag to start the 30-lap Modified feature event, Matt DeLorenzo took the lead from the outside of the front row with A.J. Romano close behind. Friesen started the event in the sixth position and by lap three was already challenging Romano for the second position which Friesen was able to take over on the next lap.
At that point DeLorenzo was a half straightaway ahead and in lap traffic by lap eight which caused a problem for Friesen as DeLorenzo was able to get by the lap cars without a problem but Friesen was held up behind one of the lap cars on lap nine, slowing his progress which allowed DeLorenzo to get away.
The first of five cautions in the event came out on lap 12 and on the restart Friesen was able to get under DeLorenzo in turn three to take the point only to have DeLorenzo make a cross over move to retake the lead coming out of turn four.
Friesen was able to get by DeLorenzo using the outside groove on the front stretch on lap 14 and pulled away soon after taking the lead position. Jim Davis started the event in the fifth position and at the lap 18 point of the event was the fastest car on the track according to timing and scoring as he took the third position away from Romano with the second caution coming out to close up the field again on lap 19.
On the restart Friesen and DeLorenzo pulled away as others behind them were making moves to the front including Josh Hohenforst and Jeff Trombley who were passing cars into the top five with only 10 laps to go.
Three consecutive cautions slowed the event on lap 25 and on the restart Hohenforst was able to get by Trombley for the third position and that was the only pass in the top five to the checkered flag as Friesen went on for the victory followed by DeLorenzo, Hohenforst, Trombley, and Ronnie Johnson.
Past champions in the 602 Sportsman division John Scarborough and Mark Mortensen started their 20-lap feature event on the front row with Scarborough leading early. When Scarborough switched lanes to the outside going into turn one, Mortensen switched lanes as well, taking the low line to take over the lead.
By lap five Mortensen and Scarborough were a straightaway ahead of third place runner Tim Hartman Jr. with the first of five cautions out at that point to close up the field. Three consecutive restarts were necessary to get the race going again as each time the green flag flew to start the race the yellow would be back out again for another wreck. When the race was finally restarted Scarborough was the new race leader as Ricky Quick was the new third place car after getting by Hartman with Floyd Billington also getting by Hartman for the fourth position.
The final caution of the event was out on lap six for a pileup in turn two and a single file restart was ordered by race director Marty Beberwyk. Once the race was restarted Scarborough was able to put some distance between himself and Mortensen and by lap nine he held a half straightaway advantage.
Scarborough and Mortensen were switching lanes lap after lap to try to find the fast way around the track with Scarborough trying to maintain the lead while Mortensen was trying to figure out how to reel him in. By lap 14 that is exactly what Mortensen did as he caught Scarborough as they went into turn one and going into turn two Mortensen was able to get under Scarborough to take the lead.
Once he got the lead, Mortensen was able to pull away with the only thing slowing him down being lap cars which he had to negotiate around for the final four laps. Mortensen was able to go on for the win, the eighth of his career in the division over Scarborough, Quick, Billington, and Ray Zemken.
With his 28th birthday just a day prior to his win, the victory was a good way for Mortensen to celebrate with Fonda Speedway announcer Josh Phillips making the call to the finish line saying “get out the cake and light up the candles Happy Birthday Mark Mortensen.”
“That was a fun race,” Mortensen said in victory lane. “I didn’t know if I was going to be able to get by him when I was chasing him and once I got by I didn’t know where he was. This car is new for this year and it is going real good right now.”
Nick Stone led lap one of the 20-lap Pro Stock feature event before third place starter Kenny Gates took over the point on lap two. By lap four Gates was out to a straightaway lead as defending track champion Pete Broderson was making his way to the front after starting fifth. On lap six Broderson was the new third place car after getting by both Kenny Martin Jr. and Chuck McSpirit for the spot.
Broderson was side by side with Jim Normoyle for the second position on laps seven and eight before he took the spot and when Gates slowed on lap nine while leading it handed the lead to Broderson while Gates was able to pit under caution to make repairs to his car and restart at the rear of the field on the lead lap.
Once Broderson got the lead the race was for the second position and it was a good one with Ivan Joslin who started the race in the seventh spot getting by Stone on a lap 10 restart for the third position and also by Normoyle on lap 16 for the second spot. Gates made his way all the way back up to third by the time the checkered flag waved to complete the event with the top five at the finish consisting of Broderson who took his 10th career win in the division, Joslin, Gates, Stone, and Normoyle.
“My wife texted me right before the feature that it would be worth sitting in the cold if I won so this one is for her and my daughter who were in the grandstands freezing tonight,” Broderson said in victory lane. “We are going for the track championship again this year, we weren’t going to but we decided to after all. The Monday after my win in the dash during the Ice Jam we had two new sponsors come on board and I appreciate everyone’s help on this car.”
Next Saturday, April 27 the CRSA 305 Sprint cars will join all other divisions on the racing card at Fonda which will begin at 7:00 p.m. For more information about the Track of Champions you can go to their website www.fondaspeedway.com
MODIFIED FEATURE – 30-LAPS – STEWART FRIESEN, Matt DeLorenzo, Josh Hohenforst, Jeff Trombley, Ronnie Johnson, Jim Davis, Jeremy Wilder, Danny Varin, A.J. Romano, JaMike Sowle, Darwin Greene, Mark Kislowski, Mike Mahaney, Craig Hanson, Jeff Rockefeller, Brian Gleason, Elmo Reckner, Justin Boehler, Todd Morey, Vinny Sanganetti, Aaron Jacobs, Josh Flint, Alton Palmer, C.G. Morey, Chuck Allen, Rocky Warner, Dave Lape, Pep Corradi
602 SPORTSMAN FEATURE – 20-LAPS – MARK MORTENSEN, John Scarborough, Ricky Quick, Floyd Billington, Ray Zemken, Cody Bleau, Tim Hartman Jr., Dave Constantino, Rocky Warner, Brian Pessolano, Tony Farone, Greg Pessolano, Jon Miller, Justin Auspelmyer, Chris Shaffer, Robert Bublak, Joey Ladouceur, Kory Wilder, D.J. Brundige, Chip Constantino, Scott Straight, Connor Cleveland, Drew Fallis, Adam McAuliffe, Jack Bublak, Brett Wright, John McAuliffe, Justin House
PRO STOCK FEATURE – 20-LAPS – PETE BRODERSON, Ivan Joslin, Kenny Gates, Nick Stone, Jim Normoyle, Kenny Martin Jr., Chuck Dumblewski, Luke Horning, Chuck McSpirit, John Bradt, Gus Hollner, Jeff McPhail, Adam Warner, Sid Harmer Jr., Dennis Joslin, Rob Noviczski, Shane Playford, Alicia Garner, Cassidy Wilson, Car #44, Randy Cosselman, Chris Claus, Harley Shepard (DNF), Justin Knight (DNS)
-end-
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