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Accord, NY- Once is not Enough
By Steve Pados
Veteran Modified Wheel Twister, John McGill, racing out of Plattekill, New York, pulled off a surprising, but popular win last year at the 1/4 Mile Action Track at Accord last year. The victory lane celebration that followed was perhaps the most animated in the history of the speedway. John was absolutely estatic when he climbed from the car, as he had just won his first Modified race in more that 20 years behind the wheel. The popular driver strutted his stuff to the enjoyment of the large crowd on hand as they acknowledged one of the little guys in the sport was enjoying a magic moment in his racing career.
That shining moment behind him, John is gearing up for a return to the Action Track this year with renewed vigor and belief knowing he has tasted victory and has a longing to taste more. From his home in Plattekill, John stated, "You know there were times when we struggled over the years, but with accomplishing the win, I know that I can race with and be competitive with one of the toughest fields in short track racing. When you win at Accord, you know you had to work hard to earn it and... well, Victory Lane, I need to get back there soon...and hopefully often!"
John has taken delivery of a 2004 Teo Chassis from another track regular, Robbie Green, and has begun to assemble the car in hopes of dialing the car in with the two scheduled practice sessions Promoter Gary Palmer has locked in for April 6th and the 13th, with opening night slated for April 20th.
John finished the season in 9th in the final point standings, which was down a couple of notches from the 7th he earned in 2005. The win, however, is the touch John feels made the season a good one for his low-buck team.
All of John's Sponsors from a year ago return with Mid-Hudson Concrete stepping up for John in the off-season.
Redi-Rock Walls, and Waterworks Plumbing return as well. Former US Marine, Eddie Ryan, who was injured while fighting in Iraq, and residing in nearby Ellenville, New York, will be working with the team this year. He will provide the inspiration for the McGill Race Team to perform at their best throughout the year. For more information on this incredible young man go to: www.eddieryan.com
John has been a fixture in racing since his start in racing during the 1985 season, where he reeled off 4 wins at Orange County in the Street Stock Division. He stepped away from racing for a span and did announcing at White Lake, Orange County, and Lake Mocatek Speedways. John continues to announce when he has the time to do so and will be emceeing the upcoming Middletown Motorsports Show from March 16-18. John works as an operating engineer for WCNY.
John will also be mentoring Sportsman Driver Joe Giacinta with much of the same knowledge he learned from his mentor and dear friend the late great Modified crew chief Charlie DeAngelis. John will also lend a guiding hand to his young son's career in the Kids Karts at Accord on Wednesday nights.
John McGill is indeed a busy man, and he has set his goals high to land in the top five in points at the season's end and to find victory lane again, as...once is not enough! |
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