Dirt Track Digest » Track News

Merrittville Speedway champions honoured Saturday night

Adam — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 13:30:54 +0000

THOROLD, Ontario (October 29) – Merrittville Speedway’s 60th consecutive season officially came to a close with the Night of Champions Saturday October 29th – honoring the 2011 Lucas Oil Weekly Racing Series Champions.

While Brad Rouse celebrated his 1st Career Championship in the Original Pizza Logs Sportsman DIRTcar Division – four drivers repeated as champions of their respective divisions.

Josh Sliter and Rocco Conte each won their second Championships in the J&S Heating and Air Conditioning Modified Lite and Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder Divisions respectively.

Ken Sargent was also champion for the second straight season in the Hoosier Stock Division – adding to two time Street Stock and 5 time Pro Stock Championships at the Thorold d-shaped oval earlier in his career.

In the first season with Bobcat of Hamilton as Division Sponsor – a familiar face was crowned Champion of the DIRTcar 358 Modifieds with Pete Bicknell earning the title for the 21st time of his career.

All 5 division champs earned traditional Merrittville Speedway Championship Rings and Jackets in addition to trophies and cash awards.

Merrittville’s Announcer Clint Geoffrey and Assistant GM Jim Irvine performed Masters of Ceremony duties – presenting the top 12 points finishers from the Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinders, Hoosier Stocks, J&S Heating and Air Conditioning Modified Lites, Original Pizza Log Sportsman and the Bobcat of Hamilton 358 Modifieds with point fund monies accordingly in addition to a wide variety of special awards.

Drivers in the Top 5 in each division’s point standings received Trophies as well.

Rocco Conte collected 6 feature wins and 17 Top 10 finishes to repeat as Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder Championship. Driving the Auto Styling/Joe Serianni Century 21 Real Estate/Young Automotive Professionals/Riccis Auto Service/Elite Wheel and Tire/Giulio Lostracco David Chevrolet Corvette Buick GMC #34c – Conte was also awarded the Best Appearing Car Award.

Other special award winners in the Turn 4 Collision-sponsored division included Rob Overholt who won the Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder Triple Crown Mini-Series Title while Kameron Kocarik won Rookie of the Year honors.

Josh Sliter drove his Canadian Tire Port Colborne/ Giulio Lostracco of David Chevrolet Corvette Buick GMC/South Coast Laser/Modern Corporation/CMH Sales & Leasing/SWS Canada/Cam Hiltz Trucking/ Metro Collision/Crutchfield Performance/Leader Race Cars # 17 to his second straight championship in the J&S Heating and Air Conditioning Modified Lite Division with 13 top 5 finishes including 5 feature wins.

Rookie of the Year honors went to runner up Derek Wagner who also won the Best Appearing Car Award.

Ken Sargent – a former Street Stock and Pro Stock Champion won his second Hoosier Stock Title in his third season back in the sport. Driving the Turn 4 Collision/PineView Drywall/ERD/Mobile Marine/Brian’s Tire Repair /GM Crate Engine powered # 25 – Sargent finished in the Top 10 17 times en route to 2 wins. Sargent also won the overall Duel on the Dirt Title – a mini-series amongst the Hoosier Stocks and the Pro Stocks from the Brighton (Ontario) Speedway.

Third generation driver Austin Wood earned Rookie of the Year honors. The Best Appearing Car Award went to Kevin Knapp.

Brad Rouse received top honors in the Original Pizza Log Sportsman Division for the first time in his career in his Baron Roofing/ Ontario Truck Driving School/ Platinum Graphics/ JCS Fibreglass/ Brian’s Tire Repair MR. 18.

Rouse racked up 5 feature wins and 17 top 10’s highlighted by a run that began July 9th through to the final point event where he didn’t finish out of the top 4. Rouse’s awards also included his first King of the Crates powered by Niagara Motors Mini-Series title that earned him a $500 Gift Certificate redeemable at the Virgil GM Dealer towards the purchase of a 602 Crate Engine for the 2012 Season.

Special Award winners included Rookie of The Year Award winner and second generation driver Gary Lindberg while Greg Panunte won the Best Appearing Car Award. Second generation driver Cody McPherson also collected The Sterling Silver Award that honors his great grandfather Bill Willard Senior from his cousin and fellow driver BJ Willard and award sponsor Ken Walsh.

Pete Bicknell won his 21st career Merrittville Speedway Bobcat of Hamilton 358 Modified Championship winning 2 Features over the course of the season that saw him finish in the Top 10 14 times in his Lucas Oil Products/Bicknell Racing Products # 42.

Other award winners included Brandon Easey who won Rookie of the year honors while the Best Appearing Car Award went to Mat Williamson.

Several history-laden awards were also presented during the event.

The Ed MacPherson Construction Kelley-Winger Sportsmanship Award was presented by the Merrittville Speedway Reunion Committee to Bobcat of Hamilton 358 Modified Driver Tommy Flannigan. The Begolo-Little Award for the most improved driver in the 358 Modified Division also went to the second generation driver Flannigan.

The Gordie Award named after former Merrittville Announcer and Wall of Famer Gordie Wilson goes to a person, or group of people who exhibit dedication to the sport. The 2011 award was presented to Pete Bicknell who perservered through increasing back pain throughout the season. Less than a week after his final race, Bicknell underwent surgery and is well underway in his recovery.

The Crew Chief of Year Award named after Billy Matthews went to Dave Osborn who was behind Brad Rouse’s first championship.

The Tyler’s Trophies Performer of the Year Award went to Rouse and performed he did! From July 9th’s event until the final point event of the season – he never finished out of the Top 4.

The Pete’s Automotive Driver of the Year was Travis Braun as he was the driver that received the most points each week during the season in the Driver of the Week Award voting.

The Awards Ceremony concluded with Nancy Bicknell addressing the audience as co-owner of the famed facility.

On behalf of her husband Pete and her daughter (Merrittville GM) Erica and their partners – Randy and Tracey Williamson, Bicknell saluted the crowd and thanked everyone for their continued support throughout the 2011 Season. Plans are well underway for the upcoming 2012 season and race fans and teams alike can look forward to an exciting schedule that begins with the 6th Annual Spring Sizzler Saturday April 28th.

2012 Season passes and Memberships will be on sale starting December 1st at Merrittville’s Winter Office located at Bicknell Racing Products, Cushman Road in St. Catharines.

Merrittville’s Winter Office at BRP is open Monday to Friday from 9 to 5 or on Saturday December 10th for the Christmas Open House from 10 to 2!

For information on Merrittville Speedway’s 61st consecutive season as the best family entertainment in Niagara – visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com or call the Winter Office during business hours – 905-685-7223!

Fulton Speedway supporters loud and proud at Volney Town Meeting Thursday; Future of historic race track will be decided by vote

Adam — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 00:42:19 +0000

Volney, New York – The racing community united Thursday night to show oppositon to a proposed noise ordinance brought by the town of Volney. This ordinance, if passed, could severely impact operations of the Fulton Speedway moving forward.
The small building used to hold the meeting couldn’t handle the crowd that assembled leaving some supporters on the outside looking in, but that didn’t dampen spirits. The sentiment of the crowd was felt by everyone in attendance on either side of the table.
According to General Manager Cory Reed in statements made to the media the ordinance could cripple the speedway as a viable business.
An absolute ground swell of support from the community was heard in the Volney Town hall, with many members of the community and surrounding area taking the opportunity to approach the microphone and directly address the Board in support of the race track, and the ability for the race track to move forward in business in the most productive way possible.
The viability of the speedway is important to racers who have called Fulton Speedway their home for many years. The Speedway is also an important part of Fulton’s tourism industry bringing a great economic impact to area businesses.
A vote is expected to take place later in the month. For more information on Fulton Speedway’s future, visit www.fultonspeedway.com or follow coverage on News Channel 9 in Syracuse.

Sheppard caps off profitable weekend with $7,700 win in the Rumble at the Ridge

Adam — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 03:20:47 +0000

Matt Sheppard, Bobby Varin, Freisen, Jackie Brown, Marc Johnson, Danny Johnson, Matt DeLorenzo, Ronca

Eurich locked in to Eastern States Weekend main event with Orange County Fair Speedway win Saturday

Adam — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:30:47 +0000

Rich Eurich can breath easy heading to Eastern States Weekend next month at Orange County Fair Speedway. By winning Saturday’s OCFS feature he guaranteed himself a starting spot in one of the year’s biggest events in northeast dirt modified racing.

Varin wins second consecutive New Yorker at Utica-Rome Speedway

Adam — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:17:55 +0000

By MIKE MALLETT
VERNON, NY – Bobby Varin struggled at Utica-Rome Speedway during the regular season but the Sharon Springs, N.Y., driver has been nothing but impressive in the special events held at the speedway. The driver of Dave Cruickshank’s famous double-zero won the Victoria event back in May and this past Saturday night he captured his third career win in the New Yorker.
“These guys are awesome,” said Varin. “My crew worked their tails off. My car was awesome today. I got the best car owner out there. Dave Cruickshank gives us a great car every week and he never gets upset even with my little tantrums and everything else. He’s a great guy and loves racing.”
Varin’s other wins in the prestigious event came back in 2008 and 2010. Varin’s dominance in the 100-lap affair paid him a hefty $10,000 for his efforts and earned him the final checkered flag of the 2011 season at the facility. Varin drove a JPM powered Bicknell to the win.
“For us to come out here and dominate like we did today is a testament to exactly what goes on behind the scenes with this team,” stated Varin. “We’ve struggled all year long. This really helps out. Winning this is a relief. We are not way off but we are off. I think we are getting there.”
Ryan Phelps started on the pole of the race and immediately jumped to the top spot. He held off early challenges from Jason Rood who had started on the outside of the front row and then Mike Mahaney who worked into the second spot by the fifth lap.
Eight laps into the race the first caution came out as Danny Varin, who started sixth, slowed and came to stop in the middle of turns one and two. This put Phelps and Mahaney on the front row for the restart. Phelps elected to go to the outside for the restart giving Mahaney the traditional poll spot which he took full advantage of.
Mahaney found some moisture on the bottom of the track and edged in front of Phelps at the green. He stayed alongside through turns one and two before finally completing the pass for the top spot as they raced to the line to complete lap nine.
Mahaney continued to work the bottom of the speedway while Phelps continued to run in the second position with Todd Burley also in the mix. Mahaney clicked off the laps at the front of the field with Phelps eventually reeling him back in and taking the lead back on lap 20.
Although Phelps held the lead, he couldn’t shake Mahaney. He stayed low and continued to challenge for the top position. The pair entered slower traffic with 23 laps complete and this changed the complexion of the event. Phelps and Mahaney now dove in out of lapped cars as they raced for the lead.
On lap 26 Mahaney’s impressive run came to an end. Mahaney attempted to get back by Phelps down the backstretch in traffic. Mahaney tucked low going into turn three with two lapped cars and Phelps to his outside. He made contact with the slower car causing something to break in the front end. He came around and stopped on the front straightaway ending his night.
The ensuing restart put Varin on the front row with Phelps. Phelps held the lead on lap 29 before Varin was able to wrestle it away from him running through the middle of turns one and two on lap 30. Once in front Varin raced away.
By lap 38, Varin began his battle with slower traffic that would last the rest of the event. As Varin worked traffic the 2011 Modified champion, Stewart Friesen move into the second spot. Friesen, a former New Yorker winner himself, used traffic to cut into Varin’s lead.
At the halfway point of the race, Varin paced the field with Friesen, Phelps, Burley and Ronnie Johnson completing the top five.
Varin continued to set a torrid pace. He worked multiple grooves to get through traffic. Each move put more cars between himself and Friesen who continued to run second. By lap 65 Varin was putting cars inside the top ten down laps and only one issue slowed his progress.
“We only had one issue in lapped traffic when we got hit really hard over in turn three,” said Varin. “I don’t know what he was thinking because he turned left. This car was dialed in tonight. I have to thank the guys at Bicknell and the guys at JPM engines for helping get this car where it needs to be.”
Ten laps later, Varin caught the sixth place running Matt Hulsizer. It took Varin a couple of laps but he was able to put him down a lap as well as the feature remained caution free. Friesen was still in pursuit but by this point he was nearly a full straightaway behind.
Over the course of the final 25 circuits, Varin lapped every car on the speedway except the top three. At the checkered flag Varin’s lead over Friesen was just over seven seconds.
Friesen capped off his 2011 season at the Utica-Rome Speedway with a strong second place finish. He had a strong Teo Pro car underneath him but he was unable to take advantage of slower traffic to get to Varin.
“We had a good race car but he (Varin) just kicked our butt,” joked Friesen. “It was a tough race. Hats off to those guys they got a great car with these sail panels and so do we. We will come back next year and try again. I thought we had a great race car tonight but Bobby just came up and blew our doors off.”
The Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont., pilot had a spectacular season at the half-mile oval earning him his second consecutive title and a runner-up finish in the New Yorker event.
“It’s been a great season for us,” stated Friesen. “We race at a lot of different places and I’ll tell you what. Utica-Rome has the best fans and the best atmosphere and we love coming here on Sundays. Tom Cullen gives us a great race car to come here and do it. I look forward to being back here next year.”
Phelps, of Canandaigua, N.Y., raced a steady race and finished in third. He was the first non-track regular across the line with his No. 99.
“We stayed local this weekend and what this paid tonight made up for that,” said Phelps. “We are racing a little bit less and picking and choosing our shows. I’m really happy with our efforts tonight. I really like the speedway and I wish we could come here on Sundays but we only have so much equipment.”
Burley, of Spencerport, N.Y., finished in fourth while R. Johnson, the winner of Friday night’s event, completed the top five.
DART MACHINERY, GATES-COLE ASSOCIATE, AND DARYL’S HEAVY TRUCK REPAIR RACE SUMMARY
NEW YORKER 100 MODIFIED FEATURE FINISH-BOBBY VARIN, Stewart Friesen, Ryan Phelps, Todd Burley, Ronnie Johnson, Matt Hulsizer, Billy Trexler, Jr., Alan Johnson, Chad Brachmann, Mike Bowman, Ryan Odasz, Casey Williams, Willy Decker, Steve Paine, Alan Barker, Jason Rood, Mark Kislowski, Chris Hile, Pat Ward, Chad Phelps, Ted Lamb, Tim Fuller, Mike Mahaney, Jeff Hoetzler, and Danny Varin.
DNQ- Jim Davis, Steve Hulsizer, Brian Murphy, Elmo Reckner, Chris Busta, Chad Homan, Kevin Bates, Brad Alger, Chris Mackey, Alex Tonkin, Andy Bachetti, Jeremy Vunk, Kenny Tremont, Brad Godshalk, Mike Ward, Adam Roberts, Claude Hutchings, Jr., Dan Pompey, Derrick Podsiadlo, Matt DeLorenzo, Randy Chrysler, and Paul Kinney.

Two Big Shows on Tap at Mercer Raceway Park; Final Ractice Session Set

Dave — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 09:24:33 +0000

Mercer, PA (September 6, 2011): Mercer Raceway Park is getting ready for its two big season-ending shows, the Western PA Sprint Car Championship and the Little Guy Nationals. The spotlight will shine on the Luxaire Heating & Cooling Sprint Cars this Saturday, September 10, as the speedway will host the twenty-second annual classic for the 410 Sprints. Then, just two short weeks later, the speedway will present the two-day extravaganza for the support divisions. And, to help get everybody dialed in for these events, there will be an open practice session for all cars this Wednesday, September 8.

The Westen PA Sprint Championship is one of the crown jewel events for the 410 Sprints in this region. Over the years, some of the top talents have come in for this race, and, with $3,000 on the line, we could see an influx of invaders this weekend.

But, in addition to the extra money, valuable track points will be up for grabs. In fact, the race will carry double points, so the outcome of this one race could have a tremendous impact on deciding the divisional championship.

Right now, Bob Felmlee holds a 17 point margin over Rod George in the standings. So there will be a race within the race, which will add extra drama and excitement for all of the fans.

In addition to the championship rivals, all of the track regulars are expected to be on hand for the final 410 Sprint race of the year. Brandon Spithaler, Adam Kekich, Brandon and Brent Matus, Scott Priester and Andy McKisson, to name a few, will try for the extra loot and bragging rights that comes with a win in this prestigious event. Mix in other notable regional drivers like Carl Bowser, Danny Holtgraver and Brian Ellenberger, and possibly some invaders, and you have the makings of an exceptional finale!

While much of the attention will deservedly be on the 410 Sprints, two of the track’s other classes will have similar scenarios.

In the Approved Toilet Rentals 358 Modifieds, Jimmy Holden and Frank Guidace will slug it out for the championship as well. They have raced hard and clean all year long, swapping the top spot in the points standings frequently. With only 29 points separating them, every position on the track will have double significance!

But, don’t forget the other contenders in this class. Will Lonnie Riggs be back in the Paden 55, or will he go with the fast but sometimes unreliable Black 58? Jeff and Jerry Shaffer will bring their immaculate racers. Ron Eperthener and Eric Gabany have been tough all year, and each have wins to their credit. Mopar Matt Reeher, Rick Hall and Kyle Fink need just a little extra luck, and maybe one of them could break through with a win that would position them well for the Little Guy Nationals.

The other class that will see the championship battle go to the wire is the Big Dog R/C Center Mini Stocks. Pete Blazczak dominated the early part of the season, but a series of mechanical failures have casued his points lead dwindle to 46 markers. Solidly in second, and contending for the top spot, is the division’s hottest driver, Ed Haylett. The veteran of over two decades of racing now has four career wins, and they have all come in the second half of the racing season! Seeing them battle with nearly two dozen other drivers will be lots of fun.

Trusty Rusty Moore has tied the track record for most wins in a season and could use this race to claim sole possession of that honor. But, it will not be easy, as last week’s contest with Gary Miller showed. Despite Moore’s exceptional performance, thePrecise Racing Products Stock Car class has seen growth in numbers and improvement in quality over the course of the year. Racers like Bob McCann, Russ Byler, Dan Lewis, Bob Schwartzmiller, Bob Heim, Shawn Hooks, and many others, have the cars and the capability to challenge for the win. And, with this being the last race before the Little Guy Nationals, outsiders may be on hand to prepare for the big event.

In the Big Daddy’s Speed Center Modified Lites, everybody wants to see if young Darrin Gallagher can claim his first track championship. His steady performances have him well out in front of the rest of the field, but he will still be racing hard to end the year on the highest note possible.

Guy Griffin has control of the standings in the ti22 Outlaw Sprint Warriors, but Dennis Wagner is on fire with numerous wins in recent weeks. Plus, several young drivers have emerged as contenders every time they go the the post, including Justin Whitesell and Michael Bauer. Mix in veteran racers like Gary Edwards, Skip Dougherty and now Andy Priest, and you just can’t be sure who will wind up in victory lane at the end of the night.

Tickets for the Western PA Sprint Car Championship will be just $15 for adults, $13 for seniors (60+), and $7 for students (9-15). Children (8 and under) are always admitted free. The popular and economical Family Pass will be available for $30 and that will admit one or two adults and up to four children regardless of age. Pit Passes will be the regualr price, only $25.

Gates will open at 4 p.m., with hot laps starting at 6:30 and racing at 7:00. Come out early, as a large crowd is expected.

If you can’t make it out this weekend for the Western PA Sprint Car Championship, mark your calendars to attend the Little Guy Nationals on September 23 and 24. Details on that program will be addressed in the next pre-race release. As a note to all competitors, though, please remember that all drivers must be at least 16 years of age to be able to race at Mercer Raceway Park.

As noted above, the track will host an open practice session this Wednesday, September 10, to help the teams get ready for these big events.

And, even though the action on the speedway will conclude in just a few short weeks, there will be one final event on the speedway calendar, the flea markets. That’s right, on October 15, come rain or shine, the track will host the annual Racer’s Flea Market and Swap Meet. While that is going on in the pits, there will be the first ever Yard Sale and Flea Market going on in the parking lot. Spaces inside or outside the pit gates will be $20, and there will be a small admission charge for the racers.

About Mercer Raceway Park: Mercer Raceway Park is a 3/8-mile dirt track located minutes from both Interstate 79 and 80 just off Route 19 on Fairground Road in Mercer, Pa. Dirt track racing and quality family entertainment are presented weekly from late March through late September. For more information, check out www.mercerracewaypark.com, www.twitter.com/mercerraceway, orwww.facebook.com/mercerracewaypark.

Racer Appreciation Night,Cadet “Thunder Run”,American Die Cast Giveaways Slated at PPMS

Dave — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 09:23:32 +0000

PITTSBURGH, PA – The final Six Division “Action Event” of 2011 is slated for this Saturday, September 10th at Pittsburgh’s Pennsylvania Motor Speedway. Due to the overwhelming support of the Pro-Late Model teams and the PPMS fans we will present a second Racer Appreciation Night this Saturday. Competitors in the Hoosier Tire Mid Atlantic DIRTcar Super Late Models, Brougher’s Machine Shop FASTRAK/Pro-Lates, Miley Truck and RV Rental DIRTcar UMP E-Mods and the Sunoco Race Fuels DIRTCar Cadets will receive a minimum of $100.00 to start in their feature events. In addition, 20 lap Pro-Late Model feature event will pay $700.00 to Win with all teams in the division also receiving a $75.00 Frankland Racing Supply Gift Card.

This week’s program will also feature the Cadet drivers battling in the 25 lap “Thunder Run” Cadet Championship with the winner picking up the $500.00 first place prize money. A complete program for the Super Late Models, E-Mods, Hobby Stocks and Young Guns is also scheduled. And don’t forget the final installment of the Wacky Wheels Figure Eight Mania will take place at intermission.

In preparation for next week’s Tri-Star Pittsburgher action an “Open Tire Rule” is in effect for Super Late Models, E-Mods and Cadets. Pro-Late Model competitors are permitted to use any FASTRAK legal tire. Tire rules for the Hobby Stock and Young Guns competitors are unchanged.

“We would like to thank all of the Pro-Late Model teams for their support of the 22nd Annual Jook George Classic presented by Vox Energy. Their cooperation enabled us provide the teams with additional purse money and contingency sponsors and we were able to showcase the racing community in a very positive manner,” commented Speedway owner Matt Miley. “This week’s Racer Appreciation Night is our way of thanking these fine businesses and individuals for their support of the weekly racing action at PPMS. In addition, Frankland Racing Supply has served the racing community for more than 50 years and their headquarters is located here in Western PA so many of our weekly competitors use their products; hopefully the gift cards we are providing will come in handy as they prepare for the 2012 racing season.”

“American Die Cast is also sponsoring this Saturday’s racing card and we will have plenty of beautiful racing die casts to give away to the fans in attendance. Race teams discounts will also be available on orders our competitors place with the firm. Since American Die Cast is another locally owned and operated firm this is an excellent opportunity for our weekly competitors to ‘thank” their 2011 marketing partners with die casts made by a nationally respected firm that is headquartered here in Western, PA,” continued Miley.

Admission prices for the September 10th event are as follows: Adult Grandstand Admission is $13.00. Seniors, Ages 60 and Over, are admitted for $12.00 with Juniors, Ages 13 to 16, priced at $9.00. Admission for Children aged Seven through 12 is $5.00 and Children Under Age Seven will be admitted Free. Pit Admission is $30.00.

Fans are also invited to bring their own refreshments; however, no glass bottles or alcoholic beverages are permitted to be brought in. In addition, coolers are limited to 14 inches or smaller. Alcohol beverages can be purchased at Ed’s Pub, which is located below the main grandstand. Proper photo ID is required to purchase alcoholic beverages.

Fans can also sign up for free race day text messages to get the latest information on weather or traffic delays that may impact the racing action by clicking on the “Rained Out” logo on the speedway website, www.ppms.com.

Additional information is also available on the speedway website: www.ppms.com or by contacting the speedway office at (412) 279-RACE (7223). Race fans can follow Pittsburgh’s PA Motor Speedway at www.twitter.com/PAMotorSpeedway and http://www.facebook.com/Pittsburgh’s Pennsylvania Motor Speedway.

Join us this Saturday, September 10th, as Pittsburgh’s Pennsylvania Motor Speedway, Frankland Racing Supply and American Die Cast say “Thank you” to all of our competitors fans with a second Racer Appreciation Night!!

Stuntman Chris Morena to attempt a Guinness World Record Limousine Jump this Saturday Night

Dave — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 09:21:53 +0000

FULTON, NY (September 6, 2011) –Stuntman Chris Morena, from Orlando, FL, will attempt to break a Guinness World Record by trying to jump a stretch limousine more than 103 feet this Saturday night during the Eve of Destruction event at Fulton Speedway. Morena, who is professional stuntman, will try to eclipse the existing world record of 103’ set by Michael Hughes at Perris Auto Speedway on September 28, 2002.

Morena will attempt the jump in a three ton 1988 Cadillac stretched Limo, very similar to the 6500 pound Lincoln Town Car used by Hughes.

Born and raised in New York just north of the Big Apple, Chris started training in stunts right out of high school with local stuntmen. He work’s regularly at Walt Disney World in Kissimmee, Florida and this year spent June and July touring northern Australia with “Hell Raisers Of Insanity” performing all the car crashes, raced monster trucks and helped prep and fire the 20 min fireworks show. Morena performed last summer at the Cayuga County Fairgrounds in Weedsport with stunts that included a 130 foot jump through a camper trailer. Chris is a member of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and regularly performs car jumps and stunts for various movie and television productions.

In addition to the world record jump attempt, Morena will do at least two other car stunts Saturday Night. There will also be a Demolition Derby, a 100 lap Enduro race for four and six cylinder cars with a huge fireworks display capping this family friendly evening off.

Admission gates open at 5pm, with show time set to begin at 7pm. Adult admission is just $12. Youths ages 6 – 15 are $5 with kids under 6 free.

For more information, please call the Fulton Speedway office at 315-593-6531 or e-mail cory@fultonspeedway.com.

Point championships will be crowned next week when double points will be on the line at Mercer

Dave — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 09:18:29 +0000

Mercer, PA (Spetember 3, 2011): Point championships will be crowned next week when double points will be on the line, but Rod George (Luxaire Heating & Cooling Sprint Cars) and Ed Haylett (Big Dog R/C Center Mini Stocks) used their feature wins to close in on the drivers leading the points standings in their respective divisions, while Jimmy Holden (Approved Toilet Rentals 358 Modifieds) used his to inch a little closer to a second consecutive point championship. Also taking wins were Gary Miller (Precise Racing Products Stock Cars), Jeff Teeters (Big Daddy’s Speed Center Modified Lites), and Andy Priest (ti22 Performance Outlaw Sprint Warriors).

The luck of the draw placed Gale Ruth, Jr. on the pole for the Luxaire Heating & Cooling Sprint Car feature, and it looked like he would take advantage of the opportunity that gave him. He jumped out to the lead on the initial start, but he had to fend off the constant challenges of Adam Bomb Kekich, who was seeking his first career 410 Sprint car victory. While Ruth never relinquished the lead to his younger foe at the scoring loop, Kekich would often nose ahead as the pair battled side by side through the third and fourth turns.

While Ruth and Kekich fought for the lead, Jimmy Light and Brandon Spithaler had their own battle going for third. But, further back in the field, the Kittaning Comet, Rod George, and the Flying One, Bob Flemlee, were working their way to the front. Their advancement through the field was even more intriguing because they are fighting for the point championship.

During a long green flag run to the finish, George and Flemlee reeled in the leaders, Ruth and Kekich. The big move came on lap 19, when George slipped under Ruth to take the lead in turns three and four, and Flemlee followed him into second.

It looked as though they would finish in that order, but Andy McKisson scooted past Felmlee for second on lap 23 when Felmlee brushed the front stretch wall.

Goeorge got the win, narrowing the point gap to just 17 markers. McKisson was second, with Felmlee third. Light hung on for fourth and Kekich got fifth.

Ruth slipped to sixth in the final circuits. Spithaler, Chris Best, Brandon Matus and Scott Priester rounded out the top ten.

Eric Gabany dominated the early going in the the Approved Toilet Rentals 358 Modifieds, running ahead of the Tugboat, Lonnie Riggs, and Jimmy the Jet Holden. The action was halted on lap nine for a seven-car wreck in turn four that blocked the track. Although the cars of Rick Hall and Dave Murdick were significantly damaged, the others were able to resume racing. Fortunatley, none of the involve drivers were injured.

When the race went green again, Holden made his move to take the lead away from Gabany. Meanwhile, Frank Guidace was working his way to the front from his twelfth place start. He overpowered Riggs for second on lap 14 and took off after the leader.

Guidace did catch Holden, and the two battled for the lead over the final five laps. With Guidace running the low side, and Holden using the cusion, they thrilled the fans with their side by side duel.

Holden powered off turn four to take the win, but Guidace was in his shadow. That gave Holden a __ point margin heading into the final points race of the season.

Rob Curtis, Jeff Shaffer and Ron Eperthener completed the top five.

Riggs finished sixth in his first ride in Andy Paden’s 55. Gabany crossed in seventh, just one spot ahead of Dave Cogswell. Jerry Shaffer finished ninth and Dillon Barr was tenth in his first outing of the season.

Just three laps into the Precise Racing Products Stock Cars, Alan Dellinger bolted into the lead, taking the spot away from Bobby Heim. Meanwhile, Russ Byler and Gary Miller were working their way forwad, as was Trusty Rusty Moore.

Byler grabbed the lead from Heim on lap 11, after Dellinger pitted. Miller also slipped by Heim for second, setting up a battle with Byler for the lead.

Miller was able to work past Byler on a restart. Moore quickly followed him into second. When Moore took the position, the question crossing everybody’s mind was whether Moore could pull off a record-breaking win.

A caution set up a two lap dash with Miller and Moore on the front row. Nerves were getting the better of the two drivers, as they had to take several shots at getting an even start. They finally did, and Miller sped into turn one with the lead. Moore hung close, hoping that Miller would bobble, but he did not.

Miller claimed the win and Moore was a close second. Byler was third, followed by Curtis Bish and Heim.

Ryan Moyer, Bob Schwartzmiller, Andy Thompson, Shawn Hooks and Jim Flaherty rounded out the top ten.

Despite starting in fourth, Jeff Teeters raced into the lead on the opening lap of the Big Daddy’s Speed Center Modified Lites. Tom Kline and Andrew Bruce fell in behind him in the early going. Bruce spun on lap four while still running third. On the ensuing restart, Teeters’ teammate, Rod Jones, came to life, advancing from fourth to second. The pair maintained command until lap 13, when Kotie Kirkbride slipped into second. She held the position until the final lap. Mark Marcucci, who started last in the evnt, passed her, but he was penalized for rough driving and placed last among those who finished the race.

Teeters got the win, followed by Kirkbride in a career best second. Jones held on for third. Point leader Darrin Gallagher nabbed fourth ahead of Cody Bova.

Kline faded to sixth at the finish. Bruce recovered from his spint to finish seventh. Bill Stivason, Breyton Santee and newcomer Tyler Frankenberry completed the top ten.

In the Big Dog R/C Center Mini Stocks, Todd Gabriel grabbed the lead from the pole, but points leader Pete Blazczak charged from fourteenth to fourth in just four laps. Blazczak pressed Gabriel for the lead, and finally moved out front on lap ten. Blazczak’s impressive run ended just one lap later. That gave the lead back to Gabriel, but now he had to contend with the division’s hottest driver, Ed Haylett. On the restart, Gabriel broke, and Haylett cruised to the win.

Troy Lehnortt finished second. Michael Thompson, Steve Longwell, Jr. and Tyler Fulton rounded out the top five.

Rudy Troples, Chase Anthony and Maria Nevin claimed positions six through eight. Gabriel was awarded ninth and Steve Longwell, Sr. tenth, both on the basis of laps completed.

The final race of the night, the ti22 Performance Outlaw Sprint Warriors, saw Andy Priest take his new ride to victory lane in its first outing. It wasn’t easy, though, as he had to chase down points leader Guy Griffin, who led from the drop of the green. Priest made the winning pass on the bottom of turn two on the last lap.

Adam Anderson ran third the entire distance. Justin Whitesell advanced from ninth to fourth. Fifth was Joe McEwen, who was also making his first start of the year.

Michael Bauer, Jack Wingstein, Bob McMillin, Harold Braden, Jr. and Dean Ruth completed the top ten.

Luxaire Heating & Cooling Sprint Cars:

1. Rod George (4), 2. Andy McKisson (0), 3. Bob Felmlee (6), 4. Jimmy Light (23), 5. Adam Kekick (5K), 6. Gale Ruth, Jr. (1R), 7. Brandon Spithaler (22S), 8. Chris best (66), 9. Brandon Matus (13), 10. Scott Priester (15), 11. Brent Matus (33), 12. Kevin Andrusky (7A), 13. Shawn Minor (3M), 14. Chuck Brion (5B), 15. John McCracken (63). DNS: Mike FLynn (69X). Heat winners: Light, George.

Approved Toilet Rentals 358 Modifieds:

1. Jimmy Holden (28H), 2. Frank Guidace (1G), 3. Rob Curtis (88R), 4. Jeff Shafffer (14), 5. Ron Eperthener (333), 6. Lonnie Riggs (55), 7. Eric Gabany (3E), 8. Dave Cogswell (8), 9. Jerry Shaffer (4), 10. Dillon Barr (15B), 11. Matt Reeher (711), 12. Bob Warren (96B), 13. Kyle Fink (66F), 14. Steve Barr (25B), 15. Kevin Green (74), 16. Greg Unrue, Jr. (5), 17. Scott Rodgers (55X), 18. Clyde Gumpp (51), 19. Dustin Martin (29D), 20. Rick Hall (B2), 21. Dave Murdick (77). Heat winners: Guidace, Jeff Shaffer, Riggs.

Precise Racing Products Stock Cars:

1. Gary Miller (1M), 2. Rusty Moore (17M), 3. Russ Bykler (06R), 4. Curtis Bish (29T), 5. Bobby Heim (92), 6. Ryan Moyer (13X), 7. Bob Schwartzmiller (28S), 8. Andy Thompson (7), 9. Shawn Hooks (65), 10. Jim Flaherty (38SPL), 11. Darrin Hyde (4), 12. Brandon Johnston (14J), 13. Bob McCann(33), 14. Buck Buchanan (93B), 15. Alan Dellinger (43B), 16. Bill Phillips (23JR), 17. Brian Wagner (56), 18. Clyde Roberts (33C). DNS: Matt Wagner (12), Ray Reynolds (73), Brad Shaffer (77), James Hooks (65H). Heat winners: Bish, Dellinger, McCann.

Big Daddy’s Speed Center Modified Lites:

1. Jeff Teeters (23), 2. Kotie Kirkbride (97N), 3. Rod Jones (32), 4. Darrin Gallagher (12), 5. Cody Bova (20B), 11. Tom Kline (68), 12. Andrew Bruce (70×7), 13. Bill Stivason (116), 9. Breyton Santee (9), 10. Tyler Frankenberry (55), 11. Jacob Bova (28J), 12. Mark Marcucci (8M), 13. Andy Feil (08), 14. Dan Demyan (8D), 15. Taylor Smith (23TT), 16. Josh Santee (3), 17. Richard Lawson (77). Heat winners: Jones, Marcucci.

Big Dog R/C Center Mini Stoicks:

1. Ed Haylett (8ball), 2. Troy Lehnortt (46), 3. Michael Thompson (82T), 4. Steve Longwell, Jr. (17K), 5. Tyler Fulton (409), 6. Rudy Troples (28), 7. Chase Anthony (26), 8. Maria Nevin (9), 9. Todd Gabriel (33G), 10. Steve Longwell, Sr. (16K), 11. Adam Bullfone (19JR), 12. Joel Wisser (15K), 13. Pete Blazczak (77), 14. Dan McEwen (44M), 15. Carl Keller (98). Heat winners: Gabriel, Haylett.

ti22 Outlaw Sprint Warriors:

1. Andy Priest (7N), 2. Guy Griffin (11), 3. Adam Anderson (5B), 4. Justin Whitesell (17), 5. Joe McEwen (44), 6. Michael Bauer (35), 7. Jacob Lagestee (72), 8. Bob McMillin(5), 9. Harold Braden, Jr. (9), 10. Dean Ruth (14G), 11.Dennis Wagner (38), 12. Jim Morris (16). Heat winners: Wagner, Bauer.

Rain Forces Super DIRTcar Series Event to Cancel at Weedsport

Dave — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 09:16:49 +0000

WEEDSPORT, N.Y. – Sept. 4, 2011 – A heavy downpour forced Super DIRTcar Series and CMP Presents Weedsport Speedway officials to cancel Sunday night’s 100-lap Super DIRTcar Series Big-Block Modified Labor Day Shootout.

The series next heads to Autodrome Drummond as part of the track’s Race Mania 7, which includes the DIRTcar 358-Modifieds and DIRTcar Pro Stocks on Friday, Sept. 9, and the Super DIRTcar Series Big-Block Modifieds on Saturday, Sept. 10.

(CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW THE SUPER DIRTcar SERIES on TWITTER)

For the latest news and information about Super DIRT Week XL on Oct. 5-9, clickhttp://www.SuperDIRTWeekOnline.com. To be part of the Super DIRTcar Series championship weekend at the World Finals in Charlotte on Nov. 3-4-5, clickhttp://www.CharlotteMotorSpeedway.com/WorldFinals.