SPRING 125 SCHEDULED AT PENN CAN SPEEDWAY
Susquehanna, PA…With the 2010 racing season at Penn Can Speedway less than two months away, speedway officials are pleased to announce that they have put together a big opening weekend of speed at the Susquehanna oval. The track will present the popular Spring 125 on Sunday April 18th. The afternoon program will kickoff a very exciting year of racing at the speedway with five big twenty five lap feature events.
The Trackside Products Street Stock Series will return Penn Can during the Spring 125 for their first of three visits. The area’s top street stock drivers will be in competition through the 2010 season in selected Trackside Products Street Stock Series events at local speedway’s. Last season Rich Talada took home the championship and is expected to return to defend the title. Other top runners expected to chase the series include Butch and Rich Green, Shane Wolf, Mike Coddington, Tom Eichlor, Earl Zimmer, Denny Decker, Gene Sharpsteen, and many other talented street stock competitors.
The late models will also be in competition with a spot on the line for the up-coming Late Model Challenge races being held later in the season. The winner of the twenty five lap feature race will be guaranteed the seventh starting spot in the first race of the Challenge Series on Tuesday August 10th. Late model teams from Grandview, Clinton County, and other area speedways are all welcome to compete. Crate late models following the Fastrack Series are also eligible for this race.
The 602 crate sportsman made their debut at Penn Can Speedway last fall and thrilled the crowd with their side by side racing. The division now takes center stage at the speedway in 2010 as one of the weekly classes. The crate sportsman has had success at just about every track they have competed on and Penn Can should not be any different. The Spring 125 will be the inaugural race for the division with many top competitors expected to try for the win. Penn Can Speedway is inviting the top crate sportsman at other area tracks to compete in their portion of the Spring 125. The top three drivers in 2009 points at local speedways running the 602 crates will be guaranteed starters if they fail to qualify. These tracks include Accord Speedway, Woodhull, Black Rock, Redline, New Egypt, and Bridgeport. All others interested should call the speedway office.
The entertaining four cylinders will be part of the Spring 125 competing in heats and a twenty five lap feature event. The racers will be competing for a special purse based on the number of cars entered in the event. There will also be other incentives in the form lap money for various drivers on different laps during the event.
Rounding out the program will be the first race of a mini series at Penn Can Speedway for the 600 Xcel modifieds. This eight race series will have a separate point battle with all eight races carrying points for the mini series championship. Last season former Penn Can modified competitor Butch Getz was the top winner claiming the Parts Peddler Championship.
All cars will draw for their starting positions in their heat races and the top heat qualifiers will redraw for the feature events. Much more information about this huge opening event will be announced as details become available and will be posted on the Penn Can Speedway website at www.penncan.com.
The mighty modifieds open their season at Penn Can Speedway the following Friday with the running of the "Can Opener." This will be the opening night for points in all divisions. Joining the modifieds will be the popular late models, crate sportsman, street stocks, and four cylinders.
The speedway is located on Route 171 in Susquehanna, Pennsylvania just a short drive from the Binghamton and Scranton areas. Gates open at 12:30 with racing at 3:00. For more information call the speedway office at 570-585-9928.
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FONDA SPEEDWAY 2010 SCHEDULE
3/19- 3/21 . Car Show - Rotterdam Square Mall, Driver autographs 3/20 3:00
Sat 4/10 4:00 IceJam 40L Mod $4000 to win, Limited Sportsman 602 crates + warm-ups ALL Divisions
Sat 4/17 4:00 Track of Champions 2010 Season Points Opener ALL Divisions
Sat 4/24 6:00 RACE SAVER 305 SPRINTS + ALL Divisions
Sat 5/1 6:00 ALL Divisions + Kiddie rides
Sat 5/8 6:00 ALL Divisions, Sportsman & Pro Stock Best of 4 Thunder Series - Tribute to Moms night
Sat 5/15 6:00 ALL Divisions Tribute to Legend Lou Lazzaro
Sat 5/22 6:00 ALL Divisions
Sat 5/29 6:00 ESS SPRINTS + ALL Divisions
Sat 6/5 6:00 ALL Divisions, Tribute to Legend Dave Lape Modified Thunder Twin 22's $2500 ea/$220 take green
Wed 6/9 7:00 O'REILLY ALLSTAR CIRCUIT OF CHAMPIONS 410 SPRINTS
Sat 6/12 6:00 ALL Divisions - Family Night - Montgomery/Fulton County Traffic Safety Night
Sat 6/19 6:00 ALL Divisions - Salute to Dads night
Sat 6/26 6:00 ALL Divisions - Student Night
Sat 7/3 6:00 ALL Divisions + fireworks + kiddie rides
Sat 7/10 6:00 ALL Divisions - Pro Stock Hondo Classic
Sat 7/17 6:00 ALL Divisions
Sat 7/24 6:00 ALL Divisions + Wilma Smith UMP dash
Tue 7/27 6:00 LUCAS OIL LATE MODEL SERIES NATIONAL TOUR + Modified Thunder Series $5000 to win
Sat 7/31 6:00 ALL Divisions
Tue 8/3 7:00 Modified Thunder Series 60 Lap $6000 to win +Sportsman (Rain date 8/4)
Sat 8/7 6:00 ALL Divisions + NE Vintage
Sat 8/14 6:00 BBL - TRACK OF CHAMPIONS NIGHT of FEATURES (Rain date 8/21)
Sat 8/21 6:00 OPEN ALL DIVISIONS - Home Track Rules - Back to School Student Night OR Rain date Night of Features
Sat 9/18 6:00 ALL Divisions
Sat 9/25 2:00 ESS SPRINTS CHAMPIONSHIP FINALE, Modified 40L $4000 open, UMP, Street Stock Open,
. . . 4-cylinders, Limited 602 Sportsman $1000 to win
Sun 9/26 2:00 McDONALD'S THUNDER FINALE - Modified 100L $9500 to win Dual Track Thunder Championship...Sportsman Best of 4 Thunder Series Championship and Pro Stock Best of 4 Thunder Series Championship
All Divisions includes Modified, Sportsman, Pro Stock, Street Stock, UMP and Limited 602 Sportsman
Schedule subject to change without notice
THUNDER ON THE THRUWAY 2010 SCHEDULE
MODIFIED THUNDER ON THE THRUWAY SCHEDULE
Sun 4/18 Utica Rome Speedway Modified Thunder 50 Lap $5000 to win
Sat 6/5 Fonda Speedway Modified Thunder Twin 22's $2500 ea/$220 take green Tribute to Legend Dave Lape
Thurs 6/24 Utica Rome Speedway Modified Thunder 50 Lap $5000 to win
Tue 7/27 Fonda Speedway Lucas Lt Model plus Modified Thunder 50 Lap $5000 to win Rain date 7/28
Thurs 7/29 Utica Rome Speedway Speedway Lucas Lt Model plus Modified Thunder 50 Lap $5000 to win
Tue 8/3 Fonda Speedway Modified Thunder Series 60 Lap $6000 to win (Rain date 8/4)
Sun 8/22 Utica Rome Speedway Modified Thunder 50 Lap $5000 to win
Sun 9/26 Fonda Speedway Modified Thunder Finale 100L $9500 to win
SPORTSMAN BEST OF 4 THUNDER SCHEDULE
Sat 5/8 Fonda Speedway Sportsman Best of 4 Thunder Series
Sun 8/22 Utica Rome Speedway Sportsman Best of 4 Thunder Series
Fri 9/10 Utica Rome Speedway Sportsman Best of 4 Thunder Series
Sun 9/26 Fonda Speedway Sportsman Thunder Best of 4 Finale
PRO STOCK BEST OF 4 THUNDER SCHEDULE
Sat 5/8 Fonda Speedway Pro Stock Best of 4 Thunder Series
Tue 7/13 Utica Rome Speedway Pro Stock Best of 4 Thunder Series
Fri 9/10 Utica Rome Speedway Pro Stock Best of 4 Thunder Series
Sun 9/26 Fonda Speedway Pro Stock Thunder Best of 4 Finale
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Cayuga County Fair Speedway Hosts the Doctor's Driving Clinic April 6th-7th
Weedsport, NY - This year Cayuga County Fair Speedway is teaming up with the "Doctor" Danny Johnson to bring driver's the inside look to everything you needed to know about racing!
From Chassis set-ups to the ins and outs of driving essentials, the two-day clinic Tuesday, April 6th thru Wednesday, April 7th welcomes driver's from every level of experience the opportunity to get one on one coaching from the "Doctor" Danny Johnson.
With a career spanning over 30 years, Danny Johnson is notably one of the best dirt track drivers in history to date with over 297 Big Block Modified and 144 Small Block Modified feature wins, ranking him 4th on the all-time wins list in each division. Spanning over four decades, Johnson has not only amassed a staggering 22 open-wheel track point titles during his career but the Phelps, NY native has also secured 4 Mr. DIRTcar Series titles, winning his first in 1989 and his most recent in 1999.
Tuesday will be a chance to scale and set-up your car in the Cayuga Count Fair Building accompanied by Danny Johnson and Crew Chief Mike Payne. Once you've scaled your car and received a few insider tips from Johnson and Payne, your car will be more than ready to hit the track!
Under the watchful eye of the "Doctor," Wednesday's session will be a full day of driving around Cayuga County's high-banked three-eighths oval. With a tutorial from Danny himself, this will be a perfect opportunity for drivers to gain helpful advice in addition to getting a jump on the competition, logging in some pre-season laps! Track time runs from 9am to 5pm and track conditions will vary as the day goes on allowing drivers the opportunity to practice in a variety of conditions.
Whether you're looking to shake off the cobwebs or gain some instruction from a future Hall of Fame driver, come out and take advantage of this innovative clinic! The two-day clinic is priced at $200, which includes a driver and two crew members. Additional crew members are an additional $25/each. The clinic is open to any safe race car in any class.
Call our DIRTcar NorthEast office at 315.834.6606 to reserve your seat! Visit www.cayugacountyfairspeedway.com for more information.
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VP Announces Spec Fuels For DIRTcar Racing In 2010
“D” brand fuels introduced for all classes this season
Newark, DE – March 2, 2010 - From Tom Skibinski, Super DIRTcar Series PR Director
VP Racing Fuels, in conjunction with officials from the World Racing Group, DIRTcar Northeast Region and the Super DIRTcar Series, today announced the introduction of their exclusive “D” brand spec fuels for mandatory use by all Super DIRTcar teams effective April 1, 2010.
“We had great success implementing the C12, VP110 and Motorsport 109 spec fuels in the U.S. and Canada last year,” said Jim Kelly, Regional Manager for VP. “Yet in an effort to eliminate the use of mixed or non-compliant fuels and to better track sales which will continue to ensure spec fuel purchase and use, in addition to better managing the year-end track and series awards, together we developed this program for the new season.”
Effective April 1, Super DIRTCar will require the exclusive use of VP’s D12 fuel for the Big-Block Modifieds, the exclusive use of D12, D110 or D109 unleaded for the 358-Modifieds, and the exclusive use of D98 for Sportsman and Pro Stock teams. Mixing or blending of these or other products will not be permitted nor will use of pump gas.
“Mixing fuels, even if mixing VP spec fuels, creates an issue at inspection. Using pump gas can also complicate fuel inspection as the chemical composition and appearance of pump gas varies from county to county, state to state, and even between pump gas available in the U.S. vs Canada,” noted Joe Skotnicki, Competition Administrator for World Racing Group and Director of Series and Sanctions for DIRTcar Northeast. “The implementation of specified fuel products makes inspection efficient, easier to track and speeds up the process for the competitor.”
The “D” fuels are the exact same chemical composition of VP’s “C” or “Motorsport” formulas but to enhance pre-race inspection and post-race analysis, VP has added specific dye colors and chemical agents to ensure the exclusive use of the spec fuels. For performance and tuning, D12 and D110 are exactly the same in chemical composition as C12 and VP110. D109 is the same as Motorsport 109 unleaded, with D98 the same as Motorsport 98. These fuels are only produced by VP in Newark, Delaware.
“D98 was first introduced to Sportsman Modifieds and Pro Stocks at Super DIRT Week in Syracuse last Fall and was a tremendous success in performance and racer satisfaction,” remarked Bob Dini, Technical Director for DIRTcar Northeast and the Super DIRTCar Series. “We gave everyone in those divisions one fuel to use which put everyone on the same page as far as cost and fuel performance. The engines performed well and many racers thanked us for leveling the playing field. D98 will be mandatory at all tracks for Sportsman and Pro Stocks without exception.”
To further enhance the tech inspection process and management of the fuel program, the new “D” fuels will be available only from VP designated trackside vendors and specified VP dealers, or direct from VP’s facility in Newark, Del. Proof of purchase from one of these specified outlets, along with display of VP 5x7” decals on all race cars and the 3x4” VP Racing Fuels logo on driver uniforms will be required during 2010 as specified in the DIRTcar rulebook.
“We handed out a significant amount of fuel certificates at the banquet last year,” Kelly added. “The participating tracks’ 1st, 10th and 12th-place points finishers who qualified for their posted VP awards will be receiving their certificates by mail just in time to acquire the new ‘D’ fuels for the upcoming season.”
Questions about the spec fuel program can be directed to VP’s Jim Kelly at 302/368.1500; VP Tech’s Fred Turza at 302/521.1767; World Racing Group’s Joe Skotnicki at 704/796-4566; or DIRTcar NE’s Bob Dini at 845/358.5049.
Big-Block Modified news is available online at www.superdirtcarseries.com and information covering all other classes can be found on www.dirtcar.com. Be sure to sign up on http://www.twitter.com/SuperDIRTcar and receive updates anywhere at anytime as the 2010 season goes full throttle.
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Lebanon Valley Releases 2010 Schedule
Monday March 1, 2010
West Lebanon, NY: The management at what is fondly known as the Valley of Speed, nestled alongside NYS Route 20 in Upstate New York, has completed the final touches on the 2010 Schedule of Events for famed high banked dirt ½ mile oval.
Lebanon Valley Speedway has been sitting nearly idle for the good part of 5 months, but the staff and management team have been nothing but idle trying to prepare for the 58th Season Opener coming April 17th, 2010.
The upcoming Champions Weekend scheduled for March 12th and 13th, is the “unofficial” start of the new season. As the teams and car owners scramble to make the final preparations on their new rides for 2010, the teams at the Valley of Speed have been busy making repairs, upgrades and new additions to Howard Commander’s Lebanon Valley Speedway.
“As soon as the snow finally melts from these past storms, we will be ready to attack the speedway and prepare it for the first night of warm-ups scheduled for Saturday April 10th” explained Lyle Devore, track general manager.
The big events lined for the 58th season start with Opening Night on April 17th. L&M Motors and Heavy Hauler are throwing out a big $3,000 to win Modified Feature event along with the return of the Budget Sportsman Accord/LV 602 Chase.
Also on the schedule is the return of School Appreciation Month set for the month of May where students K-12 get into the Valley of Speed for FREE! May 22nd is set for the 1st Annual Dan Tag Memorial $3,000 to win Modified Feature presented by Sayer’s Auto Wrecking and Adirondack Tire.
June brings a special KeyBank $4,000 to win Modified Feature and “Dollar Dog Night”. The DMC Bubba Tanner Classic 23 lap Pro Stock feature returns on June 19th and Report Card Night on June 26th.
The Annual return of the crowd favorite “Eve of Destruction” returns on June 29th . Featuring School Bus Races, Roll Over Contests, Trailer Racing, and much more, followed by the Most Unbelievable Fireworks 4th of July Celebration Imaginable” on Saturday July 3rd.
July 10th is set for a special night featuring the legendary NASCAR driver Ken Schrader’s return to the high banks. “Ken Schrader Night” will feature the wily veteran giving the Valley Boys a tough time as he did nearly 2o years ago. On July 17th marks the return of the Modified King of the Track Series.
Then the flood gates open for the annual return of the USHRA Monster Jam Summer Nationals set for July 19th, 20th, and 21st. July 25th also marks the return of the WoO Sprint Car Series including the 358 Modifieds.
August 14th brings in the Echo Prostock Series, while August 21st is set for the Northeast Vintage Mods along with the Budget Sportsman Accord/LV 602 Chase Series. But the big bills will be flying on Thursday August 26th as $17,500 is up for grabs for the Carquest Auto Parts, General Tire, and Budweiser Mr. DIRT Track U.S.A. 100 Lap DIRTCar Modified Series Race.
September 11th marks the Remember Our Heroes Night, as all Armed Forces, Firefighters, Police, and EMT’s are honored by free admittance. “The Fall Brawl 50” $1,000 to win 50 lap Budget Sportsman feature (602 only). That will also feature the final points for the Sportsman, Budget, Purestock and 4 cylinders series.
The 58th Season is locked and loaded for a full summer of action for every member of the family. The Valley of Speed is always a family friendly environment with giveaways, raffles, and prizes for all the “Little Racers” in your family.
For more information on the 2010 schedule, the 2010 rules for all divisions, and season pass information are available on our website at www.LebanonValley.com, and click on “Speedway”. Or you can call the Speedway Offices during normal business hours at (518) 794-9965, or (518) 794-9606.
For more information, the 2010 schedule, tickets, and links to what's on tap for 2010, visit our website at www.LebanonValley.com, and click on “Speedway”, or call the Speedway Offices during regular business hours at (518) 794-9606 or (518) 794-9965.
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Lernerville Speedway Awards Banquet Recap
Capacity Crowd on hand to honor 2009 Champions and Award Winners Eight Legends Inducted in Hall of Fame!
Sarver, PA (March 1, 2010) The 2010 Lernerville Speedway Preseason took the green flag Saturday night with the Annual Awards Banquet at the Butler Days Inn before a capacity crowd of almost 400 drivers, crews, car owners, media members, fans and track officials & employees. The Annual Awards Banquet pays tribute to the previous season’s Track Champions, top ten in Budweiser Points, a variety of award winners, and in a tradition started last year, a new class of Hall of Famers. Walt Wimer and the All Stars Late Model Series were also on hand to give out awards.
Lernerville Speedway Announcer Dow Carnahan started the festivities by handing out the traditional Lernerville Awards. In what eventually became a running joke between Dow Carnahan and Joe Kelley, the Sportsman division was recognized first, though they usually fall into the “save the best for last” category on Friday Nights! The first driver recognized on the night of Legends and Stars, was Randy Hanovick.
Hanovick was awarded the Most Improved Driver award for the Advance Auto Parts DIRTcar Sportsman division. Randy could not make his way to the stage due to his ongoing recovery from double hip replacement surgery during the off season, but was thrilled to be honored as the most improved driver in the most competitive division of Fab Four Racing. Other Most Improved Driver Award winners were Steve Feder in the Diehl Auto Group DIRTcar Modifieds, John Garvin Jr. in the Friedman’s Freshmarkets DIRTcar Late Models and Dan Kuriger in the Commercial Truck & Trailer DIRTcar Sprints.
Up and coming Late Model driver Michael Norris won the Hard Luck Award.
2009 Sportsman Track Champion Bob Lipinski fittingly won the Sportsmanship Award. The ARCH Fan Club awarded Sportsmanship Awards to Kevin Schaeffer and Jeremiah Shingledecker.
Advance Auto Parts DIRTcar Sportsman driver Corey McPherson won the Lernerville Speedway Rookie of the Year Award.
Flagman Greg Wheeling won the Craig Fleming Lernerville Appreciation Award. Greg filled in as assistant flagman for Michael “Moose” Polena; whom continues to recovery from an unfortunate on track incident at Challenger Speedway at the end of the 2008 season.
The Bob Cochran Sponsorship Award was given to Bill Mahan and UnWired Inc.
The Bill Steinbach Media Award was given to longtime Sprint Car media hound and the new Editor of Area Auto Racing News Jerry Reigle. Jerry tirelessly covers racing in general, but especially Sprint Car racing throughout the state of Pennsylvania.
The Grover Clasper Award was given to Marsha Schempp. Marsha has courageously battled cancer and other health issues in recent years, but can be found at the ticket windows, souvenir trailer and basically doing whatever needs done around the track every Friday Night during the Fab Four Racing Season!
The Milestone in Racing Award was given to Lynch Racing. The list of accomplishments of Ed Lynch Sr., Jean Lynch and Ed Lynch Jr. is nearly unparalleled in Western Pennsylvania! During the 2009 season, Ed Lynch Jr. joined the Lernerville Century Club by winning his 100th Lernerville Feature.
The Golden Award was given to Jim Laidlaw. Jim works tirelessly to keep the speedway grounds clean, safe and ready to host the Greatest Fans in the World!
In a long standing Lernerville Awards Banquet tradition, first time feature winners were presented with checkered flags. 2009 first time winners included Jack Sodeman Jr., Terry Young, Ryan Moyer and Randy Hanovick.
Pastor Bill Beck of Motor Racing Outreach was on hand to give the Invocation, despite the fact that his wife Judy is still hospitalized, recovering from back surgery and subsequent infection. Brother Bill stated that Judy is improving but has a long way to go. She felt the Lernerville Banquet was important enough for him to leave her side for the first day since October 13. To know that Bill and Judy think enough of the speedway, it’s drivers, fans and sponsors to take a day out of their long and winding road to recovery is truly humbling. We greatly appreciated Bill’s presence and pray for Judy’s continued recovery!
A first class buffet dinner was followed by the recognition and introduction of 2009 Divisional and Corporate Sponsors; #1 Cochran, Glassmere Fuels, Diehl Auto Group, ERacers, Sheetz, Hooser Tire Mid-Atlantic, Advance Auto Parts, The Hot Dog Guys, National Guard and Valvoline. Representatives from Racing Clubs, Local Tracks, Regional Touring Series and Media Members included Vicki Emig and Mike Leone from Mercer Raceway Park, The Miley Family from Pittsburgh’s Pennsylvania Motor Speedway, Jack and Jean Coley from the Twin State Auto Racing Club, Bob McWilliams of the Pittsburgh Circle Track Club and Guy Webb, Owen Fritz and Jason Shank of the All Stars. Media Members Carol Gamble, Don Gamble, Walt Wimer, Tom Zuck, Jim Zufall, Lou Long, Cory Stivason, Dan & Linda Fennell, Chuck Bollinger, Bud Daum, Charlie Moorehead, Tommy Hein and DJ Johnson were on hand and cover Lernerville better than any track in the country!
Rappin’ on Racin’ and Trackside Live host Don Gamble took the stage next to announce and honor the 2009 Class of the Lernerville Speedway Hall of Fame. The Inaugural Class of Don Martin, Bob Wearing Sr., Lou Blaney, Blackie Watt and Dick Swartzlander was joined by 2009 Inductees Ed and Jean Lynch, Herb Scott, Dick Bailey, Earl Bauman, Pee Wee Flick, Dave Hoffman and Ralph Quarterson. A new section of Lernerville.com will be open soon and will include complete biographies of these legendary drivers and track officials.
Following the Hall of Fame Induction, track official and National Guardsman Ron Ehrman handed out awards for the National Guard Heat Race Challenge. Joe Kelley won the Heat Race Challenge with a staggering 10 heat race wins. He was presented with $400 and prizes from the National Guard. Also recognized were Ed Lynch Jr. (second with eight wins) and Bob Felmlee and Brian Swartzlander (tied for third with seven wins each).
After the National Guard presentation, awards for 2009 Budweiser Track Champions and Top Ten in points for all four divisions were given out.
As mentioned above, the Advance Auto Parts DIRTcar Sportsman division was honored first. Shawn Thorn’s sponsors “The Hot Dog Guys” accepted the ninth place plaque on his behalf. Also on hand to accept their hardware and thank their family, crew and sponsors were Corey McPherson (eighth), Ryan Moyer (seventh), Jim Fosnaught (sixth), Pat Hanley (fourth) and Joe Kelley (second).
Seated at the head table for the first time in his career was 2009 Budweiser Track Champion Bob Lipinski and his girlfriend Jamie. Bob is truly a throwback to the “good old days” of racing, as he builds all of his own stuff; from the chassis to the engine and everything in between! And what would a Lipinski celebration be without his trademark neon green? This time the neon green was adorned on his shoes!
Representing the Diehl Auto Group DIRTcar Modifieds and accepting their hardware for finishing in the top ten of Bud Points were Steve Feder (tenth), Mike Turner (eighth), Dave Murdick (fourth) and Kevin Bolland (second). Dow Carnahan also announced that Kevin Bolland will be inducted into the Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame in April for his contributions to the local racing community. Kevin announced that he will be making an announcement about the team’s plans for the 2010 season on their website www.KevinBolland.com in the near future!
Also sitting at the head table for the first time was Diehl Mods Track Champion Jeremiah Shingledecker and his wife Lex. Jeremiah pulled of one of the most memorable championship moments in the history of Lernerville Speedway by winning the feature and claiming the title despite entering the night third in points behind future Hall of Famers Brian Swartzlander and Kevin Bolland. Jeremiah also created a memorable moment during the banquet by presenting his father and brother with championship jackets for their priceless roles in the team’s championship run.
Accepting their plaques and representing the Friedman’s Freshmarkets DIRTcar Late Models were drivers Gregg Satterlee (tenth), Jared Miley (ninth), Todd Bachman (seventh), Doug Horton (sixth), John Garvin Jr. (fourth), Dave Murdick (third) and Lynn Geisler (second). Lynn once again gave some playful ribbing to Alex Ferree, now a three-time Track Champion!
As mentioned above, last night was Alex’s third straight time at the head table as Track Champion of the Friedman’s Freshmarkets DIRTcar Late Model division. But despite joining the elite company of Dave Hoffman, Lynn Geisler and John Flinner as the only drivers to win three straight championships in the division, Alex joked that at his current rate, it would take him 100 years to catch Lynn Geisler’s lofty win totals!! Alex was once again flanked by his girlfriend Brenda.
The Commercial Truck & Trailer DIRTcar Sprint Car division was represented by drivers Carl Bowser (sixth), Bob Felmlee (fifth), Jack Sodeman Jr. (his niece Taylor accepted on his behalf), Kevin Schaeffer (third) and Ed Lynch Jr. (second).
Rod George and his wife Jackie graced the head table for the third time at the Lernerville Awards Banquet. The future Hall of Famer also won Track Championships in 1986 and 2002!
Walt Wimer took the stage next to present his #1 Cochran Cavalcade Awards. On hand to accept their awards were Rod George (his fourth Sprint Car title), Jeremiah Shingledecker (winning his first Mods title), Robbie Blair (five time Late Model Champ) and Max Blair (two time Limited/Crate Late Model Champ). Walt also presented the prestigious Western PA Rookie of the Year Award to Crate Late Model driver Joe Martin. Martin, a long time crew member for Mike Blose, burst onto the scene and won his first feature at Mercer Raceway Park during his rookie campaign.
After the Cavalcade Awards, All Stars President Guy Webb took the stage to present trophies to the top six drivers from the Inaugural Season of the All Stars Late Model Series. Webb commented, as multiple drivers had earlier, about the important role of family in the Lernerville Banquet and the local racing community in general! He also commended Lernerville Speedway General Manager Gary Risch Jr. for welcoming the inaugural event of the newly formed All Star Late Model Series during the 2009 season and for excelling in a thankless job of following in the footsteps of the Legendary Don Martin. Dow Carnahan and ASLMS Series Director Jason Shank then recognized and presented trophies to All Star drivers Jared Miley (sixth), Jared Hawkins (fifth), Coleby Frye (fourth), Rod Conley (third), Boom Briggs (second) and All Stars Champion Robbie Blair.
Lernerville Speedway General Manager Gary Risch Jr. threw the checkered flag on the formal portion of the Annual Awards Banquet with his closing comments. He started by thanking outgoing and longtime division sponsors Commercial Truck & Trailer and Friedman’s Freshmarkets and followed by announcing that Ti22 Performance (Sprints), Integra Shocks (Late Models) and Charapp 28 (Sportsman) will be new division sponsors for the 2010 season. Car Mate Trailers has also joined the Lernerville Speedway as a marketing partner for the 2010 season.
Risch announced that the Twin 30s format of the Don Martin Memorial Silver Cup was a raving success with sprint car fans nationwide and will be back for the 2010 season. He also formally announced a format change for the 4th Annual Firecracker 100 presented by GottaRace.com from a two-day show, to an exciting three-day format. The three-day Firecracker weekend will feature complete $6000-to-win shows on Thursday & Friday and the $30,000-to-win Firecracker 100 A-Main plus the $3000-to-win Uncle Sam 30 on Saturday Night.
Also back on the 2010 schedule, are the DIRTcar Round Up Steel City Stampede, the wildly successful Mid-Season Championships (complete with guaranteed starting spots in the Firecracker and Silver Cup), two shows each for the All Stars Sprints and Late Models, dates for the BRP Modified Tour and the UFO-sanctioned Lunarville 33. Finally, Risch announced the creation of the 10-date DIRTcar Challenge Sprint Series, featuring $2000-to-win, $9500 total purses, three of which will be hosted at Lernerville Speedway, including the finale at the DIRTcar Round Up Steel City Stampede. He closed by thanking everyone who plays a part in the Lernerville Speedway family; from track officials and employees, to the drivers, crews, sponsors and of course, the Greatest Fans in the World!
The 2010 Lernerville Speedway Preseason continues this weekend at the Clearview Mall in Butler, PA for the first of two Mall Car Shows. The cars will be on display from the beginning of business hours on Thursday until the mall closes Saturday Night. The always popular Fan Favorite Contest will be posted at www.Lernerville.com, along with photos by Cory Stivason for those who cannot attend!
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Modified Tour Announces Lernerville Date
Officials of the BRP/Hoosier Tire Modified Tour and Lernerville Speedway are pleased to announce that the series will appear at the Action Track on Friday, May 21. The program will proceed under the rules package negotiated for the 2009 events held at the track.
"We are sorry that it took a while for us to make this announcement," said Modified Tour President Lou Long. "We could not release a date until after Lernerville Track Manager Gary Risch, Jr. returned from his extended duties in Florida during Speedweeks," he explained. Risch was assisting Lernerville's parent company, World Racing Group, present the DIRTcar Nationals at Volusia Speedway Park.
Although more Tour dates are still under negotiation, it currently appears that the series will open at Lernerville. Other confirmed dates for the Modified Tour are: Saturday, May 28, Pittsburgh's Pennsylvania Motor Speedway; Saturday, June 19, Mercer Raceway Park; Sunday, July 4, Tri-City Speedway (Kodiak Memorial); Wednesday, July 7, Sharon Speedway (Lou Blaney Memorial); Saturday, September 18, Sharon Speedway (Russ King Memorial); and Saturday, October 2, Midway Speedway (Buckeye Fall Brawl). Please watch the Modified Tour website, www.modifiedtourinc.com, for further information and announcements.
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DELAWARE INTERNATIONAL RELEASES AMBITIOUS 2010 SCHEDULE
By Charlie Brown, Delmar, DE – The 2010 season schedule at the Delaware International Speedway is one of the most ambitious in the track’s history. Along with some long time staples such as six United Racing Company sprint car dates, the Camp Barnes Benefit and five weekly points divisions the track has also added surprises. The new events include the return of “Twin 20’s” nights for both the NAPA Big Block Modified and the Super Late Models plus an “All Out 100” feature only night.
One of the biggest changes for the 2010 season will be a change in the dates and times of the Delaware State Dirt Track Championship. This year’s event will be held on Friday and Saturday nights, October 22 & 23. The traditional tacky night time surface that the track is noted for should provide some outstanding side by side racing. “Our tradition dates were in direct conflict with very popular local “Pumpkin Chunkin,” said promoter Charlie Cathell. “The World Championships in Charlotte, N.C. are also on the previous date and along with the World of Outlaw Late Models and Sprint Cars they are adding the big block modifieds this year plus I was never very satisfied with the single file racing that the daytime surface provided.”
The season will open in traditional fashion with a “Tune & Test” on Saturday night April 3rd followed by the season opener – “Delmar Night” on Saturday night April 10th. Rounding out the month will be the first of six URC appearances on April 17th and the William J. Cathell Memorial on April 24th which will include the Little Lincoln and Vintage Stock Cars along with the five weekly divisions.
The month of May will be filled with specials. The 3rd Annual “Kyle Dixon Memorial” will be on May 1st and will include the Slide for 5. The “World of Outlaw Late Models” return on Thursday night, May 13th. On May 15th it will be “Topless Night” as all weekly division will run minus their roofs. May 22nd will be “Wings & Things” for the Late Models and the URC Sprints make their second stop on “R.C. Holloway Night” May 29th.
June 6th the “Twin 20’s” for the NAPA Big Block Modifieds returns. Once a regular format at the speedway, it has been several years since a twin feature event has been held. The very popular “Elk Mooneyham Memorial” returns on June 12th with lost of bonus money on tap. June 19th will be stop three for the URC Sprints and June 26th it will be “Wings & Things” for the NAPA Big Block Modifieds.
July will include the Camp Barnes Benefit on Tuesday night, July 6rd and the “All Out 100” feature only night on July 17th. More information on this new format will be forthcoming. The “Mix & Match” Big Block Modifieds vs. Super Late Models format returns on July 24th.
August will be highlighted by Lankford Sysco Night with “Twin 20’s” for the Super Late Models on August 7th. The “King of Kings” shootout for Super Late Model feature winners will be on August 14. On August 21st if will be another “Topless Night” plus Slide for 5 and the “King of Kings for the NAPA Big Blocks will be feature on August 28th.
For more information and the complete schedule log on to www.delawareracing.com. Fans can now also keep up to date on both Facebook and Twitter by becoming fans of Delaware Racing. For more information contact the speedway office at (302) 875-1911 or by Email at dragway@delawareracing.com.
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Motorsports Expo '10 Attracts Super DIRTcar Series Stars For Autographs
Weedsport, NY – February 28, 2010 – By Tom Skibinski, DIRTcar Racing Northeast PR Director
The DIRTcar Racing Northeast circuit will once again take center stage with participation by many of its cars and stars headlining Motorsports Expo '10, March 13-14, in the Verizon Center of Progress Building at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse.
An all-pro line-up of Super DIRTcar Series drivers has been assembled just in time for the 24th Annual Motorsports Expo '10 at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse. Headed by defending Rite Aid 200 Presented By Ferris & Snapper Mowers titlist Matt Sheppard, overall 2009 Hoosier Tire-VP Racing Fuels Mr. DIRTcar 358-Modified Champion Dale Planck and inaugural DIRTcar All-Star 100 winner at Cayuga County Fair Speedway, Ryan Phelps, the current list of open-wheel standouts also includes former Mr. DIRTcar champ and Gary Tomkins, north country stalwart Billy Dunn, 2008 Motorsports Safety Systems/G-Force Big-Block & 358-Modified Rookie of the Year Larry Wight and 2010 Big-Block rookie candidate Lance Willix II. Also joining the head table will be part-time World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series pilot Jessica Zemken.
All of these drivers are slated to be on site Saturday, March 13 at 3pm for a special autograph session that will also provide plenty of photo opportunities. They will be available to answer questions and reveal their race plans for the upcoming season, with points champion Sheppard, Planck and Wight also discussing their recent trips south to Volusia Speedway Park for the Florida DIRTcar Nationals By University of Northwestern Ohio.
Along with the JB Motorsports no. 9S Xtreme Lubricants/Bicknell entry steered by 2009 Canandaigua Speedway and Brewerton Speedway points champion Sheppard, the Big Red Towing no. 99 Dave Miller Auto Body/Bicknell machine of Phelps, no. 5H Ernie Kreis & Son-Fastline Performance-P&M Fabrication/Bicknell mount chauffeured by brothers Rob (at Brewerton) and Chris Hile (Fulton), and the double-zero numbered Original Pizza Logs-Macedon Parts Plus- Mark’s Garage Chevrolet Impala stock car of Mike Welch will also be on display around the centrally located ‘DIRTcar Land’ throughout the weekend.
"We’ve got a nice mix of cars on display and drivers to meet up with our fans,” said DIRTcar Northeast Director of Competition & Track Sanctioning Joe Skotnicki, who will also be addressing member track personnel and race officials slated to convene on March 12 at the Cayuga Co. Fairgrounds for the annual pre-season promoters meeting.
“It’s one of the last times to rehash 2009 and gear up for another great season ahead, one that marks DIRTcar’s 35th consecutive year of operation in Central New York. This is always a big show as it comes right before the Super DIRTcar Series opener at Hagerstown (March 27), and that means only another month until the weekly action goes green closer to home.”
Helping to make the DIRTcar display a major attraction at Motorsports Expo ’10, charter members Canandaigua Speedway, Cayuga County Fair Speedway and Rolling Wheels Raceway Park will have information areas active during the two-day show as track representatives will be providing schedule cards as well as supplying important news about each facility.
Be sure to stop by and pick up one of the many DVDs for sale in the DIRTcar booth, where teammates can also fill out an official 2010 DIRTcar License application form, learn about any ‘10 rule book updates and pick up major series race schedules.
Crowning of Ms. DIRTcar 2010 highlights the first day of activity during the Exposition & Trade Show, with competition taking place Saturday, March 13 beginning at 7 p.m. Each entry in the 13th Ms. DIRTcar contest sponsored by Leaf Racewear will be judged in the customary rounds of clubwear & sportswear, plus an on-stage interview session.
The New York State Fairgrounds is located on State Fair Blvd., off Route 690, only minutes west from downtown Syracuse. Show hours in the Center of Progress Bldg. are 10am-9pm Sat. and 11am-4pm Sun. For more information, please contact Joe Patrick at 315/457-0175 during normal business hours or log into www.gaternews.com.
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A LANDSLIDE OF ENTHUSIASM AT RANSOMVILLE SPEEDWAY RULES AND MEMBERSHIP MEETING
Ransomville, NY - Sunday, Feb. 28th - The 2010 season looks very bright as the enthusiasm was high at the annual rules and membership meeting. The meeting which was held at the Lewiston #2 Fire Hall this past Sunday resulted in pre-season rosters totaling one hundred and ten drivers. To say record setting would be an understatement! Early indications are 2010 is going to be a big year at the big R!
A total of twenty-eight registered for the Mighty Taco Modifieds including defending champion Todd Burley of Spencerport, NY and DIRTcar Star Danny Johnson of Rochester, NY. In addition a total of five rookies grace the head-lining class includng Mike Nash, Scott Just, Steve Schumacher, John Smith, and Anthony Rizzardo. Nash makes the switch from the asphalt surface while the remaining four make the move from the Sportsman division.
The Original Pizza Logs Sportsman class remains strong with defending champion Ryan Susice leading the way. In addition - local favorites Jipp Ortiz and Don Spatorico are set to give Susice a run for the 2010 title while Greg Martin and Mark Potter return to action at the big R. A total of twenty-one drivers registered at the pre-season meeting with a few more expected before the racing gets underway at the end of April.
The Ki-Po Chevrolet Streetstocks continue to lead the way as some thirty-two competitors fill the 2010 roster. Defending champion Derrick Borkenhagen will be back in action aboard his #25 entry. The Sherwood family has a long standing history at Ransomville Speedway and will continue the tradition in 2010 with three entries in the full fendered divison - Brandon, Kirk, and rookie Kaleigh. Mark Loveland is also making his return to the big R.
The 4 Cylinder divisions - the Bobcat of Buffalo Firehall Enduro Series and the Gippsters Collision 4 Bangers claim a total of twenty-eight entries to date. Additionally - many of the Firehall competitors from a year ago were unable to make the meeting however made their intentions known to return for the 2010 season. This will result in the number of 4 Cylinder entries to grow substantially prior to the first green flag of the season.
In addition - an informal meeting was held between Promoters Pete Cosco of the New Humberstone Speedway, Randy Williamson of Merrittville Speedway, and Joel & Jamie Friesen of Ransomville Speedway. "Solidarity is key," commented Joel Friesen. "Our goal is to keep the rules in line with each other, we all win when drivers can compete between the three tracks under the same set of rules."
"We are all on the same page," reflected Cosco. "The three tracks will continue to work together in the best interest of the drivers."
Next up is the annual Car Show held at the Fashion Outlets Mall, USA March 25th thru 28th.
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BRIDGEPORT SPEEDWAY SPRINGS INTO ACTION IN THE MONTH OF MARCH
BRIDGEPORT, NJ (February 26, 2010) - As the cold and snowy winter of 2010 comes to end, Bridgeport Speedway has a busy schedule of events in the month of March before another season of racing commences in April.
To start out the month that ushers in the Spring Season, Bridgeport Speedway will invade the Granite Run Mall for a car show on Saturday, March 6 and Sunday March 7. An informational exhibit about the track, including 2010 racing schedules, will be located at the center of the mall on the first floor.
Wade Hendrickson, the 2009 Big Block Modified Champion, will have his 2010 ride on hand. Other 5/8th mile competitors planning to have their cars on display include Brett Ballard, Eric Kormann, Chuck Buchman, and Mike Cogdill. Jon Stewart, Bill Thomas IV, the Locuson Brothers and Bryant Davis will be among the quarter mile drivers displaying their Micro-Sprint cars. Eddie Wagner will be showcasing his URC Sprint car as well.
Located at the intersection of Route 1 and Route 352 in Media, Pennsylvania, the Granite Run Mall can be easily reached by using I-476, I-95, or Route 202 and is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM until 9:30 PM with Sunday hours from 11:00 AM until 6:00 PM.
Once again, a fundraiser will accompany the car show to help support the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation in their quest to find a cure for Mesothelioma. This form of cancer affects the smooth lining of the chest, lungs, heart, and abdomen.
On Sunday March 7th, an important driver meeting will take place at the Holiday Inn in Swedesboro, New Jersey from 11:00 AM till 1:00 PM for 5/8th mile competitors. At least one member from each race team is recommended to attend this event. Track owner Jay James will be present at the meeting.
The initial laps of the 2010 season hit the inner and outer dirt ovals on the final weekend of the month. On Saturday, March 27th at 1:00 PM, a practice session will take place on the big 5/8th mile track with a quarter mile test and tune session planned for Sunday, March 28th at 1:00 PM. If inclement weather should occur on Saturday, March 27th, practice will take place for both ovals on Sunday, March 28th.
Bridgeport Speedway provides a safe and secure family atmosphere, free parking, giveaways and fan participation games. Billed ‘The Fastest Dirt Track in the East’, Bridgeport Speedway is a banked 5/8th mile dirt oval, featuring a dirt 1/4 mile oval embedded in the center, and is located in Southern New Jersey -- just minutes from Pennsylvania and Delaware at exit 14 off of I-295.
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HEARN’S “THE BIG SHOW II” SET FOR JUNE DATE AT ORANGE COUNTY FAIR SPEEDWAY
SUSSEX, NJ (March 1)……..Champion dirt track Modified driver Brett Hearn will again take on the role of racing promoter for the 2010 Super DIRTcar Modified Series race at Middletown, New York’s Orange County Fair Speedway. “Even though we faced some pretty difficult situations last year between the weather and the track’s electrical failure, we were encouraged by the turnout of both fans and competitors for The Big Show I. This time around we want to close the deal and prove to everyone that there’s still a place for special midweek racing meets,” said Hearn from his Sussex, New Jersey race car shop. “Orange County is the most historic race track in this part of the country and that only adds to the big event atmosphere.”
THE BIG SHOW II, featuring the traveling stars of the Super DIRTcar Modified Series, Orange County’s corps of weekly racers, and an expected large contingent of outside invaders, will get the green flag Wednesday, June 16 at 7:00 pm at the venerable Middletown, New York speedway where promoter Hearn holds all the records for victories and championships.
In addition to a full night of Modified racing, including time trials, qualifying heat races, and a 100-lap feature, Hearn is actively pursuing an additional motorsports-oriented exhibition for the fan’s enjoyment. “We’re bringing back the B-main race for the non-qualified cars. The winner can choose either the $2,000 prize money, or the 13th starting slot in the 100-lap main event which carries at least a $6,000 winning payoff,” said Hearn.
Detailed information regarding THE BIG SHOW II, including Midway activities, special ticket packages, event sponsors and contingency awards will be forthcoming in coming weeks. “Right now we just want fans to mark the date---Wednesday, June 16 (rain date June 30)---on their calendars.,” said Hearn.” “We got things started last year; this time we’re out to finish them!”
Hearn is a full time professional race car driver. His record of 771 feature race victories and more than 70 track and series championships places him among the sport’s all-time race winners in any form of American motorsports.
Media representatives may contact Brett Hearn by calling 973-702-0819, Monday through Friday during business hours. THE BIG SHOW information will be available online at www.bretthearn.com and www.thebigdirtshow.com.
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