2008 News and Rumors - June
Dirt Racing
Defending track champion Benji LaCrosse held off a hard charging Shawn Kilgore to take the feature win at the Forest County Potawatomi Thunderhill Raceway. Charlie Kroll topped the IMCA stock cars for the second week in a row, and Brad Lautenbach scored his first career IMCA northern sport mod feature victory. Press Release (06-29-08)
Due to heavy rains and the threat of more inclement weather, the racing events scheduled for June 28 at Charter Raceway Park were cancelled. Next week, Charter Raceway Park all five divisions will race again. Pits open at 3:30 and the main gates open at 4:30. Racing is scheduled to start promptly at 6:30. Press Release (06-28-08)
Current points leader Brian Mullen of Seymour grabbed the lead on a lap 11 restart and survived four caution periods to win the 25 lap IMCA modified feature at Luxemburg Speedway Friday night. Mullen collected $1,100 for his win, thanks to sponsors Robinson Metals and Badgerland Concrete. A total of 125 cars showed up, including 37 IMCA modifieds, 33 stock cars, 24 northern sportmods 17 hobby stocks and 14 sport fours. Press Release (06-28-08)
Special thanks go out to the crew from The Speedzone in Oshkosh for the great promtion. The crew is running a "Salute to Leo's Speedway" on Tuesday July 1st and put together some awesome cards promoting the race and giving us some great press along the way! The race will feature $5 roll back admission, $1 Beers, Soda and Hotdogs. Inaugural walk of fame and twin modified 25 lap features. For more information visit www.oshkoshspeedzone.net (06-27-08)
The racing was fantastic Saturday night at Charter Raceway Park in Beaver Dam. At least 5 races were decided at the checkered flag with first place being decided by merely a number of feet. Four of the five feature events had repeat winners in 2008 while the Dirt Devils produced a new winner for the current season. The Grand Nationals got off to a rough start as Don Schumacher went around with just one lap scored complete. There would be just one more caution on lap eight for an incident between Ross Stalter and Roger Lee. Press Release (06-23-08)
Another great night of racing at Plymouth Dirt Track at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds. Jestin Danes, New Holstein, started fourth in the feature and quickly fought his way to the point. He held off hard chargers Matt Yancey, Sheboygan Falls, and Loren Lubach, Sheboygan. Danes went on to win the feature with Yancey in second and Lubach in third. Tim Warner, Malone, was fourth, and Brad Dahmer, Sheboygan, rounded out the top five. Press Release (06-22-08)
Heavy rain about a half hour before the races were scheduled to begin forced the cancellation of tonight's races at the Forest County Potawatomi Thunderhill Raceway. Drivers attempted to pack the track, but too much standing water on the track would not allow the program to run. Press Release (06-21-08)
Late afternoon showers forced Luxemburg Speedway to cancel its scheduled program for tonight. This is the 3rd rain-out in a row and 6th so far this season. Next Friday night is sponsored by Pepsi and will include our regular racing program with Big Wheel races during intermission. Press Release (06-20-08)
After two weeks off, the regular five divisions of cars were back on the dirt at Charter Raceway Park. Despite all the rain over the past week or so, the track started off very dry and it took drivers a while to get used to the conditions. However, track management put extra water down part way through the heats and prior to the first feature event which turned the track into a very raceable surface. Press Release (06-18-08)
The Masters weekend at Cedar Lake Speedway truly is one of the highlights of IRA's season. This year was the 10th running of the event, for IRA is was their 4th as sprint cars were added to the nationally known late model event in 2005. This year was another great weekend as IRA shared the card with the WDRL Late Models. 33 sprint cars took part in this year's running with Minnesota pilot Scott Winters having a career weekend by winning both night's of IRA competition and taking home $5500 for his efforts. The IRA as a series once again displayed its' regional strength, providing a solid field which put on some great racing for two night's in front of a very healthy crowd. Press Release (06-17-08)
Jeremy Jacobs ended a drought that lasted nearly two years by picking up the IMCA modified feature win at the Forest County Potawatomi Thunderhill Raceway. Bernie Reinhardt
cashed in for the third week in a row taking the checkers in the IMCA northern sport mods. Early on it was Frog Station's Dan Ratajczak holding the lead with Jacobs hot on his heels. Ratajczak would get loose in the rough stuff, allowing Jacobs to wrestle away the lead on the inside. Press Release (06-15-08)
The threat of scattered thundershowers didn't keep Plymouth Dirt Track from racing this Saturday night at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds for Fan Appreciation Night. Sprint cars were first in the rotation. Lance Fassbender, Burnett, had a fast car for the feature, but Earl Possi, Escanaba, MI, who started 11, was slowly reeling Fassbender in. The caution came out with four laps to go when the 2007 sprint champion spun out in turn two. Press Release (06-15-08)
A huge downpour Thursday night has forced Luxemburg Speedway track officials to cancel the races scheduled for Friday night. "Basically we've got a lot of standing water in the infield," said track manager Rick Goral. "We cannot even get out and work the track with all the rain we got last night." Press Release (06-13-08)
Due to severe thunderstorms in the area, the racing events scheduled for June 7, 2008 at Charter Raceway Park were cancelled. Next week, all 5 divisions are scheduled to race. Pits open at 3:30 and the main gates open at 4:30. Racing is scheduled to start promptly at 6:30. Contact the track office for more information at 920-382-7858. (06-8-08)
Plymouth Dirt Track racing has canceled its show this Saturday due to the weather. Press Release (06-7-08)
Heavy rain on Thursday and more rain during the afternoon has forced the Forest County Potawatomi Thunderhill Raceway to cancel its' planned racing program for tonight. Press Release (06-7-08)
It was "Escanaba in da moonlight" for the Sprint car feature this past Saturday night at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds. Sprint car driver from Escanaba, Michigan, Earl Possi out paced heavy hitting veteran drivers in the feature with an incredible preformance. The Late Model division had a clash of the titans for their feature. Randy Markwardt, Sheboygan, was chasing down 2007 PDTR Late Model Champion, Russ Scheffler, Waukesha, but couldn't quite get the job done with lapped traffic getting in the midst of the action. Scheffler went on to win his fifth checkered flag this season at Plymouth. Press Release (06-1-08)
Julie McDermid of Oconto Falls passed Shawn Kilgore after a late restart to capture the IMCA modified feature at the Forest County Potawatomi Thunderhill Raceway. Jeremy Wiitala and Bernie Reinhardt each won their second consecutive features in the street stock and IMCA northern sport mod divisions, respectively. Kilgore took a commanding lead from his front row starting spot in the modified feature, followed by James Tebon and McDermid. McDermid would get by Tebon, but Kilgore would hold his lead by a large distance. A late caution erased Kilgore's lead and allowed McDermid to slide underneath for the lead and the win. Todd Dart charged hard to second, followed by Kilgore, Randy LeMieux and Billy LeMieux. Press Release (06-1-08)
Former track champion Eddie Muenster of Green Bay passed Eric Mullen for the lead on lap six, ending a four year drought and winning 25 lap IMCA modified feature at Luxemburg Speedway Friday night. The contest went green-to-checkers without a yellow. Second year driver Scott Boulanger of Luxemburg fought off New Franken's Jarrod Van Lannen in the waning laps and held on to win his first ever 18 lap IMCA hobby stock feature win. Boulanger, who also scored a sweep with his heat win, stopped Dave De Grave's streak of four straight wins in the class. Press Release (05-31-08)
Four IMCA sanctioned divisions are on the card for Badger State Showdown programs Thursday and Friday, June 5-6 at Luxemburg Speedway. Both Modified features are qualifying events for the Fast Shafts All-Star Invitational ballot, with $1,000 paid to win on opening night and $2,000 paid to win on Friday. IMCA Sunoco Stock Cars run for $700 to win on Thursday and $1,300 to win on Friday. Top prizes for the Karl Chevrolet Northern SportMods have been upped to $400 and $800, while IMCA Sunoco Hobby Stocks vie for winner’s checks of $275 and $550. Press Release (05-30-08)
Asphalt Racing
Mother Nature attempted, but could not drive away the fans and the drivers from the first ever Pay Per Lap Driveline 100 and Power House 50 Saturday Night. As over 40 Late Models packed the pits and put on a tremendous show as Greg Haase grabbed the Drive Line 100 trophy, and Tom Gee took the Power House 50. Former Norway Super Stock track champion and Late Model Champion Mike Gardner timed in with the fastest lap, with a time of 14.435. Press Release (06-30-08)
For the second consecutive week, David Prunty was in victory lane after finding himself in the right place at the right time when the leaders tangled late in the Keith’s Marina 85 Sunday night at the Slinger Super Speedway. Prunty inherited the top spot on lap 69 after an intense battle for the lead between Mike Strupp and Dennis Prunty ended with Dennis Prunty skidding through the infield grass and when racing resumed, the defending track champion held off a hard charging Collin Bamke for the win. Press Release (06-30-08)
Denmark's Crystal Wood led wire-to-wire and sweated out several caution periods and went on to win the Francis Creek Frenzy 50 lap Mid American Series event at 141 Speedway Saturday night. In doing so Wood became the first woman to ever win a Mid American Series event since the inception of the series in 1992. Crystal Wood shared the front row with her husband Don Wood. The couple traded the lead for the first three circuits with Crystal Wood taking command of the lead b y lap four. Press Release (06-29-08)
14 year old Brett Moffitt, development driver for 5k Motorsports made his debut at Wisconsin International Raceway this past Thursday night. We are told Brett and team plan to race with the Fox River Racing Club again before the ASA Midwest Tour race in August. The team than plans to return to run the Big 8 Series race in August. (06-28-08)
Great racing combined with an incredible fireworks show made the Boucher Group Night a memorable experience for all involved at Madison International Speedway. A great crowd was on hand to see racing in all five weekly divisions along with the annual fireworks extravaganza presented by Thunder Cat. Defending champion Bobby Wilberg was back home in victory lane for the first time in 2008 after taking top honors in the 40 lap feature for the Rockweiler Insulation Limited Late Models. Steve Rubeck in the Weaver Auto Parts Super Late Models, Jay Kalbus in the Bryden Motors Area Sportsman, Stephen Scheel in the Roto Rooter Bandits, and Alex Arelano in the Pellitteri Waste Systems Legends were also winners. Press Release (06-28-08)
Soaring gas prices not only affect the amount you pay at the pump, they're taking a sizable chunk out of local racing budgets. Drivers at Wisconsin International Raceway pay anywhere from $5 to $6 or more for a gallon of racing fuel, compared to around $3.50 a year ago. Gardner and his crew load up his Ford Fusion each week to go from Gladstone, Mich., near Escanaba — a round trip of about 300 miles. "We average $150 in gas just to tow," said Jennifer Gardner, Mike's wife, team co-owner, spotter, marketing manager and business director. "It's close to double to what it was last year for us." Appleton Post Crescent (06-27-08)
Brett Piontek is hoping to have a leg up on the competition on Saturday night at 141 Speedway. The 23-year-old from Green Bay is expected to be one of the drivers to beat as the Mid-American Stock Car Series makes its lone stop at the ¼-mile paved oval in Francis Creek. Piontek is in the process of finishing a new car. "It's a car I want to have done in time for the ASA Midwest Tour race at WIR in August," Piontek said. "We might also run the Milwaukee Mile with that car, too. We'll see how the schedule plays out." Green Bay Press Gazette (06-27-08)
Jim Duchow mentioned during open ceremonies last night that he and Dan Devine have been talking about running the full Big 8 Series for 2009. (06-27-08)
WIR Thursday Tidbits: 14 year old Brett Moffitt from Iowa driving for 5k Motorsports joined the Limited Late Model division. Becca Kasten was back for the second week in a row in the #90 Limited Late Model. Andy Kluck #16 tore the "wrap job" off the car and painted it yellow again. Jim Duchow was driving a backup car after wrecking his primary last week. Jerry Van Handel made his first appearance of the season as we reported earlier. Eugune Gregorich Jr. who was on the list of drivers running weekly has raced the last 2 weeks after missing the first couple of weeks. (06-27-08)
Last evening the Fox River Racing Club held Children's Hospital Night at the races under perfect weather! In Late Model action with 27 cars on hand it was Troy Nelson taking fast time. Heat winners were JJ Smith and Brad Dahmer with Mike Gardner taking the fast dash. Mark Schroeder would take the semi feature win. Lowell Bennett took the feature win, his first in a couple years at WIR. Top 5: Bennett, Mike Gardner, Jeff Van Oudenhoven (who started from the rear of the field), Nate Van Wychen and Gregg Haese. In Limited Late Model action it was Jim Duchow taking fast time. Heat winners were Jack Pankratz and Tim Springstroh with Jesse Oudenhoven taking the fast dash. The semi feature was won by 14 year old Brett Moffitt. The feature even was won by Jim Duchow over Kris Kelly, Todd Verhagen, Jeff Tisler and Brandon Conrad. Other feature winners: Super Stocks - David Hoerning, Sport Trucks - Brandon Kucksdorf, Sizzlin 4s - Scott Verboomen, Figure 8's - Jeff Wohlrabe. (06-27-08)
Sunday Night June 29th, it’s the Keith’s Marina Firecracker 85 Independence Day Celebration. See an 85 lap Late Model Feature along with the Limited Late Model, Slinger Bee’s, Thunderstock, Figure 8, Midwest Sportsman, and One on One spectator eliminator. Gates open at 3:45, qualifying at 4:15, and racing at 6 pm. Rain Date is Thursday July 3rd. Thundercat Pyrotechnics will be putting on one of the most spectacular fireworks shows you will see in Washington County! Press Release (06-26-08)
No matter the type of car, type of track or type of stakes, Tony Stewart ultimately just wants to race. And the two-time NASCAR Cup champion makes a point to quench his anytime, anywhere racing thirst by making a dozen or more non-NASCAR appearances each season. Stewart, who headlined the 100-lap super late model event along with fellow NASCAR stars Matt Kenseth and Kyle Busch, estimated that he will take part in 10 to 15 races outside his NASCAR responsibilities this season. Wisconsin State Journal (06-25-08)
As it turned out, Steve Carlson's mid-race worry was all for naught. After cruising to the lead and showing the dominant car going into the halfway break of Tuesday night's The Swiss Colony All-Star Challenge at Madison International Speedway, the veteran driver from West Salem thought some of his fellow competitors were holding something back for the second half of the 100-lap event. So good, in fact, that even a caution with 12 laps to go — it bunched the field and put NASCAR star and Cambridge native Matt Kenseth on his rear bumper — wasn't enough to slow Carlson en route to victory in front of an estimated crowd of about 8,000 Top 5: 1, Steve Carlson; 2, Matt Kenseth; 3, Andrew Morrissey; 4, Nathan Hasleu; 5, Travis Sauter. Wisconsin State Journal (06-25-08)
Team sources tell us Jerry Van Handel will most likely make his first appearance this Thursday night. Jerry will be getting the car prepared for next Thursday when his company, A-Z Machine will sponsor the races. (06-24-08)
Rod Wheeler Update: We understand Rod Wheeler has sold the only race car left in his shop, but still has his hauler. Rod was dealing with some health issues, but is now healthy. (06-24-08)
This race is being put on by some OLD guys. They have paid there dues in the sport of short track auto racing. Gene and Fran have been short track racers for over 60 years combined. While also running 2 or the major suppliers for the racing industry. Coleman Racing Products and Five Star Stock Car Bodies are leaders in short track auto racing parts development. New and great products keep these 2 companies out front of their competition. Press Release (06-24-08)
This Friday night the Boucher Group presents their annual Fireworks Extravaganza at Madison International Speedway. Thunder Cat Fireworks will once again thrill fans of all ages with a spectacular aerial and ground display. Racing action will take place in the Weaver Auto Parts Super Late Models, Rockweiler Insulation Limited Late Models, Bryden Motors Area Sportsman, Roto Rooter Bandits, and Pellitteri Waste Systems Legends. Round three of the Wayne's Custom DIECAST Dash will also take place for the limited late models. Press Release (06-23-08)
David Prunty used a late race pass on Collin Bamke to capture the victory in the Pepsi Challenge 60-lap late model feature presented by Enders Construction and Design to Construct at the Slinger Super Speedway Sunday night and afterwards dedicated the victory to Bob Fish, a longtime track and car sponsor who passed away earlier in the week. Press Release (06-23-08)
Three of the top-eleven finishers in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Toyota/Save Mart 350 in Somona, CA will be appearing at Madison International Speedway this Tuesday night. Kyle Busch, fresh off his win at Somona, along with 8th place finisher Matt Kenseth and 11th place finisher Tony Stewart will be competing in The Swiss Colony All-Star Challenge 100-lap feature event this Tuesday night at MIS. Press Release (06-22-08)
MIS E-News Week of June 23, 2008 (06-22-08)
Jerry Gille's consistency has put him on top of the point standings in the Stanley Steemer NASCAR Late Model standings. Tonight, he along with Doug Bennett, George Sparkman, and Joshua Lundy took him feature wins at Rockford Speedway. Alex Papini was the early leader in the 30-lap feature event for the Stanley Steemer NASCAR Late Models. Gille, who started seventh, quickly charged his way to the front as was up to third by lap 2 and second by lap 4. Press Release (06-22-08)
Dennis Rabas of Maribel led wire-to-wire and dodged five caution periods to capture the Pa Murray Memorial 50 lap Mid Am Sportsman feature at 141 Speedway in Francis Creek Saturday night. During the final ten laps, Manitowoc's Gregg Haese and Whitelaw's Daryl Gerke closed the gap, challenging Rabas in the final circuits. Haese, Gerke, Andy Casavante and Kevin Damrow rounded out the top five finishers. Press Release (06-22-08)
Steve Rubeck waited many years to win his first-ever feature event earlier this year at MIS. Proving that patience has its rewards, the Illinois driver waited until the final lap to pass Frank Kreyer for the win in the Weaver Auto Parts Super Late Model 40 lap feature on Tech Enterprises Night. Other feature winners included Scott Broughton in the Rockweiler Insulation Limited Late Models, Darrell Garman in the Bryden Motors Area Sportsman, Jody Schmidt in the Roto Rooter Bandits, and Max McNamara in the Pellitteri Waste Systems Legends. Press Release (06-21-08)
One of the most dominant teams in Fox River Racing Club history is looking to rekindle some of its magic in 2008. Green Bay car owners Mike and Patti Butz have teamed up with Wisconsin International Raceway's winningest driver, Terry Baldry of Omro. Baldry, 55, has driven for four car owners during his time competing at WIR on Thursday nights in the late model division. The game has changed a bit since the team's dominance in the late 1990s. It seems everyone has gone to running a big bar and soft spring as far as setup goes, so that's taken some getting used to," said Baldry, who won a pair of Red, White and Blue state titles in his previous stint driving for the Butzes. "I still feel like my reflexes are good enough. We'll see how the season progresses." Green Bay Press Gazette (06-20-08)
WIR Thursday Tidbits: Kemkes Racing has three cars at the track as the #07 Late Model of Cory Kemkes made his debut after wrecking in the Red race. There appeared to be some doubt as to whether the #05 of Nate Van Wychen would be fixed in time. The team got the car finished and arrived at the track just before qualifying. Andy Monday drove Dan Vixmer's #5 Sport Truck as Vixmer was out of town for the night. Some new sponsors on a couple cars, Kris Kelly's #1 Limited Late Model was carrying Factory Value Parks on the quarter panels and Mike Gardner also has Barry-Wehmiller with Paper Converting now on the quarter panels. Becca Kasten who normally races weekly at Slinger Super Speedway made an appearance in the Limited Late Model division. John Spaight made his first appearance in a #5 Limited Late Model, we understand this is a team car to the #2 of Travis Stebane. (06-20-08)
With perfect weather the fans came out and saw a whale of a show Thursday Night at Wisconsin International Raceway. With it being Budweiser/WAPL/L&S Electric Triple Crown night, that meant there were extended features. In the Late Model division 29 cars took to the track with Gregg Haese taking quick time. Tim Rothe took the fast dash win while Mark Schroeder took the semi feature victory. Jeff Van Oudenhoven took the 50 lap feature win over Terry Baldry after many laps of side by side racing. In Limited Late Model action it was Jim Duchow taking quick time. Kris Kelly took the fast dash win while Jim Ebben took the semi feature win. Gary Natrop would win the feature event after many caution flags and many cars crashed. In other racing it was Andy Monday taking the sport truck victory driving Dan Vixmer's truck. Super Stock feature was won by Gregg Hauser. (06-20-08)
Local racing heroes and favorites Jamie Iverson and Kris Kelly are going to run for the big bucks that the Drive Line 100 has put up for purse money. The feature event alone could have a pay off of over $18,000 cash and prizes. Kris Kelly stated “It is an honor to race in this race, put on by racing greats who have helped out so many of us little guys along the way. We use Coleman parts when ever we can not only because he is close by but they make some real great parts. Five Star race bodies are the short track industry standard and used by most people in the area. Fran and his partner Carl worked on making the ABC body rules used in most of short track asphalt racing today.” Press Release (06-20-08)
It will be a busy weekend at the Rockford Speedway with three days of racing excitement. Three unique events will be featured this weekend. On Friday, it's the Annual Loves Park Police vs. Businessman Grudge Race starting at 7:07 pm. Press Release (06-20-08)
NASCAR Nationwide Series competitor David Stremme has entered The Swiss Colony All-Star Challenge, Roy Kenseth of RK Race Promotions has announced today. Stremme will be returning to Madison International Speedway for the first time in six years on Tuesday, June 24th. Press Release (06-20-08)
Racing Greats Gene Coleman and Fran Prestay along with Mike Bellisle and Craig Vanenkevort have put together a very unique race for the fans and drivers alike. The 100 lap super late model feature will have cars from 3 or more states. The race will be one of the first run under this new format as all drivers will get paid the same for every lap they race other than the leader will get bonus money. The drivers will each get paid 7.50 per lap. The drivers are very high on this new format and think it is neat as to have them all have a chance to get at least $750.00 for running all 100 laps. Press Release (06-20-08)
Sunday Night June 22nd, it’s the Pepsi Challenge Round 2 and Enders Construction Design 2 Construct Miss Slinger Speedway Pageant. See all Slinger Speedway divisions in action including the Late Model, Limited Late Model, Slinger Bee’s, Thunderstock, Figure 8, Midwest Sportsman, One on One spectator eliminator, and the Suburban Motors Modified. The Wisconsin Street Rods will also be on hand taking parade laps during intermission. Gates open at 3:45, qualifying at 4:15, and racing at 6 pm. Press Release (06-20-08)
All-Star Challenge Entries So Far (06-20-08)
MIS E-News Week of June 16, 2008 (06-18-08)
Nothing would make Gregg Haese happier than winning his second straight Red, White and Blue state championship this season at Wisconsin International Raceway in Buchanan. But before that can happen, the driver of the black-and-orange No. 00 Chevrolet Monte Carlo for BUCO-Hockers racing has to straighten out his problems during Thursday night's Fox River Racing Club program at the track, where he missed the feature the first week of the season and crashed in the feature the second week. Full Story in Appleton Post Crescent (06-17-08)
Jeff Van Oudenhoven took a giant step toward winning his third Red, White and Blue state championship with a victory in the Red Race on Saturday night. Defending RW&B champion Gregg Haese of Manitowoc, the night's fastest qualifier with a time of 19.387 seconds, finished second in his first 100-lap race at Wisconsin International Raceway. Rounding out the top five were Mark Eswein of Wisconsin Rapids, John Meidam of Appleton and Kyle Calmes of Freedom. Full Story in Appleton Post Crescent (06-17-08)
RK Race Promotions has released the schedule for The Swiss Colony All-Star Challenge scheduled for Tuesday, June 24th at Madison International Speedway. This year's event will feature Matt Kenseth, Tony Stewart and Kyle Busch competing in a 100-lap Super Late Model feature along with Rockweiler Insulation 38 featuring the BRP Big 8 Series presented by Gandrud Chevrolet. Press Release (06-17-08)
Lowell Bennett won the Late Model feature on Reunion and Scout night at the Slinger Speedway on Sunday night. Bennett, the current points leader, led the final twenty-five laps of the race holding off a hard charging David Prunty to capture his second win of the season. “I just love this place,” exclaimed Bennett after the race. “It’s fun every time I get in the car here.” Press Release (06-17-08)
Wrightstown's Jeff Muelemans took the lead at lap 130 and cruised the rest of the way to win the 300 lap Father's Day Enduro presented by Tisler's Salvage at 141 Speedway in Francis Creek Sunday. Mueleman's topped the 37 car field, which saw 26 machines still running when the checkered flag flew. Press Release (06-17-08)
Red Race Tidbits: Cory Kemkes flew home from North Carolina where is attending Nascar school to drive the #07 Late Model. The car was previously owned by Jeff Zweirs and is now owned by Kevin from Shaphire's Gentleman's Club. JJ Smith was behind the wheel of the #96 Matt Maynard Motorsports car. Dave Feiler has been driving the #96 earlier in the season, but things appear to be over between Feiler and Maynard. Andy Monday raced at Norway Speedway on Friday night and was involved in a wreck that tore the front of the car off. The team stayed up all night putting the car back together. (06-15-08)
A great crowd and a great field of cars were on hand for another exciting night of racing and a School Bus Jump at the Rockford Speedway. At the end of the night it was Tim Sargent, Chris Gantz, Gene Marocco, Jeff Myers and Jake Zellmer taking home feature wins. Press Release (06-15-08)
Mishicot's Errol Berry passed Manitowoc's Jo Gauger on the final lap to win the 35 lap Gandrud Super Stock Series event at 141 Speedway Saturday night. Gauger passed Green Bay's Pete Kumbalek for the lead on lap 13. Berry, who started at mid pack, slowly picked his way through the field, working his way to third by lap 10. Press Release (06-15-08)
Jefferson Speedway and Rockford Speedway officials are proud to announce that the first ever Goodyear Stateline Challenge will take place on Thursday, July 3 at Jefferson Speedway and Saturday, July 5 at Rockford Speedway. This two-track event will be a Late Model Invitational with a special overall point fund. This Invitational will follow the Jefferson Speedway/Rockford Speedway rules & weights that apply at each track. There is no registration fee and the pit passes will be $20 each night with the competitor's home track membership. Press Release (06-15-08)
Brady Liddle led wire to wire in winning the Nicholas’ Gift of Hope 40 for the Rockweiler Insulation Limited Late Models at Madison International Speedway on a picture-perfect night of racing. Other feature winners were Scott Lawver in the Bryden Motors Area Sportsman, Bobby Selsing Jr. in the Roto Rooter Bandits, Alex Arelano in the Pellitteri Waste Systems Legends, and Jesse Bernhagen in the Bandoleros. Press Release (06-15-08)
Due to the severe storms that have been hitting the Dells area throughout the week, DRP is canceling the Limited Late Model Twin 40's on June 14th. The storm last evening took out a few trees and some fencing and the wet conditions are affecting the track conditions. We will be ready to race next weekend for the Beagle's Mid Season Championship. Press Release (06-13-08)
Madison International Speedway is racing tonight!!! See action in the Rockweiler Insulation Limited Late Models, Bryden Motors Area Sportsman, Roto Rooter Bandits, Pellitteri Waste Systems Legends, and Bandoleros. Press Release (06-13-08)
The Miss Slinger Speedway Pageant has been rescheduled for Sunday Night June 22. 2008 Miss Slinger Speedway Pageant: Enter for the chance to be crowned the 2008 Miss Slinger Super Speedway and win $1000. Contact the Slinger Speedway office at: 262-644-5921 or email: slingerspeedway1@aol.com for more information or an entry form. Press Release (06-13-08)
Nason's Landscaping will be sponsoring a fun evening of racing this Saturday night at the Rockford Speedway. Along with the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series action, fans will also get to see a School Bus Jump. Press Release (06-13-08)
Due to flash flood warnings and the continued threat of severe weather heading our way today and more tonight, the FRRC has decided to cancel tonight's race program scheduled for 6/12/08. Please stay tuned for an update on the rain date for the first leg of the Budweiser/WAPL triple crown race series. (06-12-08)
Slinger Speedway is announcing the addition of five star drivers to join Matt Kenseth and Kyle Busch at the 29th Annual Miller Lite Slinger Nationals with Kelly Bires, Erik Darnell, Johnny Sauter, David Stremme, and Scott Wimmer all committing to race in the July 15th event. All seven visiting drivers will pilot potent rides in their search of the Miller Lite Nationals title on the ultra-fast quarter-mile oval. Kenseth, a three-time Nationals champion, and Bires will be behind the wheel of Pathfinder Chassis house cars prepared by Jason Schuler and Joe Wood, who will also be busy preparing a limited late model for Matt's son Ross Kenseth. Press Release (06-11-08)
FRRC Preview (06-10-08)
Join us (Dells Raceway Park) Saturday, June 14th for the Limited Late Model Twin 40's! Dueces are wild as the Limited Late Models take to the track for not one, but two 40 lap features. Double Features, Double Points, and Double Payout!! Racers will line up for this one so strap in early. Rounding out the program are the DRP Super Stocks, Pure Stocks, and Bandits. Press Release (06-10-08)
MIS E-News Week of June 9, 2008 (06-10-08)
Does it get any better than this? Five racing divisions plus the second annual trailer race and Faster Pastor III all in one night! After back to back rainouts racing will continue this Friday with the Rockweiler Insulation Limited Late Models, Bryden Motors Area Sportsman, Roto Rooter Bandits, Pellitteri Waste Systems Legends, and the Bandoleros all in action. Round two of the Wayne’s Custom DIECAST Dash for the limited late models is also on the schedule. Highlighting the racing program will be the Nicholas' Gift of Hope 40 for the limited late models that will pay $800.00 to the winner and additional purse money to several other finishing positions. Press Release (06-9-08)
Sunday Night June 15th will be Reunion Night and Scout Night at Slinger Speedway! A 60 lap Late Model Feature will headline the racing events. Late Models will be joined by: Limited Late Models, Midwest Sportsman, Thunderstock, Slinger Bee’s, Figure 8’s, and Spectator Eliminators! Qualifying starts at 4:15 with racing at 6:00 pm. Press Release (06-9-08)
Springstroh Racing owns two Limited Late Models. The first #36 is driven weekly at Wisconsin International Raceway with the second car being a Big 8 Series car. Team owners tell us Mike Springstroh will be pilioting Tim's Big 8 Series car during the Triple Crown races at Wisconsin International Raceway. (06-8-08)
Tonight's activities at Slinger Speedway have been cancelled. (06-8-08)
A great crowd was in attendance to witness the Kar Korner World Famous Trailer Race. Mother Nature delayed the start of the racing but in the end, it was Steve Rubeck, Fred Nason, Aaron Rude, and David Lignell taking home feature wins. Press Release (06-8-08)
Denmark's Kevin Naidl survived late race pressure from Mishicot's Kevin Peroutka and went on to win the rain shortened, nine lap mini stock feature at 141 Speedway in Francis Creek Saturday night. Press Release (06-8-08)
Due to the high winds, tornado warnings, and reports of hail, we (Dells Raceway Park) have to cancel the race program for Saturday, June 7th. Press Release (06-7-08)
WIR Tidbits: Jack Pankratz made his return after taking a wild ride opening night. Jason Vandenberg made his first appearance of 2008 and turned in a very fast qualifying time. Todd Verhagen was unable to make a qualifying run as he was at a graduation. It was reported that Mike Springstroh was driving the #36 Limited Late Model normally driven by young Tim Springstroh. Andy Monday had the car running full song, but are still battling motor issues. Last week they were only running on 7 cylinders do to a broken valve spring. We are told Josh Bauer will made the haul next Thursday Night in preparation of the Red Race. (06-6-08) UPDATE: We are told Tim Springstroh was driving the #36 Limited Late Model last Thursday Night. While Mike Springstroh was driving the #36X..(06-8-08)
Last nights Thursday Night Thunder at Wisconsin International Raceway was slowed due to rain. Qualifying took place and heat races in trucks and Super stocks took place before the rains came. The track was very wet and the humidity made the track hold the moisture. Officials made a decision after a meeting with the drivers took place and the show was called. (06-6-08)
Due to several inches of rain that have fallen over Wisconsin's Fastest Half-Mile the past couple of days we have been forced to cancel tonight's racing program. We have standing water in the infield and pit area along with water coming up through the track in turn one. "Obviously we want to get all of our racing programs run as scheduled. Unfortunately things have not dried out and with moisture coming up in turn one it becomes a safety issue. With rain still in the forecast, I would rather make this decision now than to have drivers make the trip to the track only to have to return home," said MIS General Manager Dave Grueneberg. Press Release (06-6-08)
One of the more famous events held annually at the Rockford Speedway returns this Saturday night as Kar Korner presents the World Famous Trailer Race. Along with the Trailer Race, it will also be another exciting evening of NASCAR Whelen All-American Series racing. Press Release (06-6-08)
Sunday Night June 8th Enders Construction and Design 2 Construct Miss Slinger Super Speedway 2008 Pageant and CAR LOAD NIGHT! A 75 lap Late Model Feature will headline the racing events. Late Models will be joined by: Limited Late Models, Midwest Sportsman, Thunderstock, Slinger Bee’s Figure 8’s, Figure 8’s, Spectator Eliminators and The Suburban Motors HD Mods! Qualifying starts at 4:15 with racing at 6:00 pm. Press Release (06-6-08)
MIS E-News Week of June 2, 2008 (06-6-08)
Thrive to Drive Newsletter (06-6-08)
Jeremy Lepak outdueled Lowell Bennett in a classic short track last lap battle to win the Pepsi Challenge 75-lap late model feature by less than a car length Sunday night at the Slinger Super Speedway. “That was some awesome racing,” Lepak told the crowd from Victory Lane, “We touched a little bit on that last lap but that’s just fun short track racing. Congratulations to Lowell (Bennett) on a good run as well.” Press Release (06-2-08)
Brett Piontek followed an identical script as he raced to his second straight MidAmerican feature win at the 141 Speedway in Francis Creek Saturday night. Also joining the ranks of two-time feature winners on the season were Lee Kielpikowski in the Super Stocks and Bruce Sand in the Sport 4 class. In the Speedway's other divisions, Alex Stumpf won for the first time in the Mini-Stocks, while former Mini-Stock champ Mark Christensen took home his first trophy of the year in the Hobby Stocks. Press Release (06-1-08)
A great crowd was on hand to witness some of the best racing from all four divisions and a return appearance from the Devastator Monster Truck. At the end of the night, it was Ryan Carlson, Dave Edwards, George Sparkman and Terrance Robinson taking home feature wins. It was a wild 25-lap feature event as Sparkman held off Tim Melvin for the win. The race was slowed three times for cautions; the worse came on lap 11 when Aaron Rude got together with Jeff Tenure on the front stretch causing Rude to hit the wall head on. He was alright but was done for the night. Press Release (06-1-08)
The 37th Annual Red, White and Blue Series kicks off on Saturday, June 14th. Please visit the following webpage for official registration and payout information: http://clintman.itgo.com/photo6.html This year, the biggest change in format is going back to 100 lap features for each leg of the series. Each 100 lap feature pays $1,800 to win and $500 to start for the Late Model Divisions. The Red and White races are also part of the Wisconsin Challenge Series. The winner of the B-feature also has a hefty pay at $500 plus one tire. Press Release (06-1-08)
Touring Racing
For Steve Parsons, going to the racetrack was a bonding experience for himself and his daughter Kim. Sadly, that ended earlier this year as she lost her life to a tragic accident. In honor of his daughter, Parsons along with the ASA Kwik Trip Midwest Tour presented by ECHO Outdoor Power Equipment have announced a 14th race date schedule for Sunday, September 7th at Marshfield Super Speedway. The 100-lap event will be called, “The Kim Parsons Memorial.” ASA Midwest Tour (06-28-08)
Grundy Wrap-Up Notes (06-24-08)
Donny Reuvers ended a long drought in the ASA Kwik Trip Midwest Tour presented by ECHO Outdoor Power Equipment with his win at Dells Raceway Park. Tonight, he showed that he is the real deal as he won his second ASAMT event in a row by capturing the ECHO Power Blower 100 presented by ProSource Motorsports and Hype Energy Drink at Grundy County Speedway in Morris, IL. Reuvers started sixth in the main event that had 11 drivers qualify under the track record set by Dan Fredrickson last year. Press Release (06-23-08)
It took less than five weeks of preparation, but Art Frigo along with Bob Roper and John McKarns held the first ARTGO event on September 7, 1975 at Grundy County Speedway in Morris, IL. Today, the ASA Kwik Trip Midwest Tour presented by ECHO Outdoor Power Equipment will bring back the tradition that was started that night as five states will be represented at this Sunday's ECHO Power Blower 100 presented by ProSource Motorsports and Hype Energy Drink. "The most significant thing was that it was put together in less than five weeks and we had 49 cars at that event," John McKarns recalled from his home in Florida. "It was exciting for the Chicagoland fans because it was one of the first times they got to see Wisconsin drivers take on the Chicago area competitors." Press Release (06-20-08)
2008 ASAMT Lane Automotive Rookie of the Year contender Nick Murgic will have a new look on his #12 Super Late Model this Sunday at Grundy County Speedway. That is because he, along with his Murgic Racing team, is proud to welcome PowerTrack as a new primary sponsor for the remainder of this season. Press Release (06-20-08)
No matter what dictionary you open, the common thread found in the definition of "passion" is "A powerful emotion." It's with passion that Rusty Ott has created a business that has become one of the Midwest's Largest Yamaha and Suzuki dealership. That passion is now flowing into short track racing as ProSource Motorsports has teamed up with the ASA Kwik Trip Midwest Tour presented by ECHO Outdoor Power Equipment for this Sunday's ECHO Power Blower 100 presented by ProSource Motorsports at Grundy County Speedway. Press Release (06-17-08)
The best Super Late Model drivers in the Midwest will bring their 500hp built engine Super Late Models to Grundy County Speedway on Sunday, June 22nd for the running of the ECHO Power Blower 100 presented by Hype. This will be fifth event of the 2008 season for the ASA Kwik Trip Midwest Tour presented by ECHO Outdoor Power Equipment. The ASA Midwest Tour, the only Super Late Model asphalt series in the Midwest sanctioned by the American Speed Association (ASA), will make its only visit to the state of Illinois next Sunday. The tour has 14 events over five states this season. Press Release (06-17-08)
ASAMT Officials along with the Keith Fleck Miller 100 organizers have announced that the event scheduled for Friday, June 13th has been postponed to a later date. Below is the note from Tim Olson & Steve Einhaus. I am sure that many or all of you are aware of the dramatic news that he been taking place in the Cedar Rapids, IA area. Currently all bridges leading in or out of Cedar Rapids except for the main I-380 bridge are closed. Flooding has incapacitated the downtown area and currently power has been eliminated from the track. Press Release (06-12-08)
ASAMT Officials continue to stay in contact with Dudley Fleck in regards to this Friday's ASAMT event at Hawkeye Downs Speedway. As of today, the event is still on for Friday. Fleck stated that there is no indication or reason to cancel the event at this time. The track is currently in great condition and weather conditions are favorable for Friday. Fleck has stated that Hawkeye Downs Speedway and the facilities are not in any danger of being flooded. Most of the flooding situation is occurring near downtown Cedar Rapids and the track is nowhere close to the area where evacuations are occurring. Press Release (06-11-08)
Dudley Fleck was grateful to pass along a year-by-year history of the Keith Fleck Miller 100 event at Hawkeye Downs Speedway. The 36th annual event will take place this Friday night with the ASA Kwik Trip Midwest Tour presented by ECHO Outdoor Power Equipment. Press Release (06-11-08)
So far, as of this writing, a total of 38 drivers have filed entries for the Keith Fleck Miller 100 this Friday night at Hawkeye Downs Speedway in Cedar Rapids, IA. NASCAR Sprint Cup competitor Johnny Sauter is among the entries for the fifth event of the 2008 ASA Kwik Trip Midwest Tour presented by ECHO Outdoor Power Equipment season. Sauter is recently coming off a fifth place at the ASAMT Miller Lite 100 presented by Arby's at Dells Raceway Park in Wisconsin Dells, WI where he finished one spot behind his nephew and ASAMT Touring Star Travis Sauter. Press Release (06-10-08)
The third event for the BRP Big 8 Series presented by Gandrud Chevrolet will be the Rockweiler Insulation 38 on Tuesday, June 24th at Madison International Speedway. The "Weekly Warriors" will race in support of The Swiss Colony All-Star Challenge featuring Matt Kenseth, Tony Stewart and Kyle Busch. The feature field has been expanded for this event with a 26-car field with a payout of $225 to start and $1,500 to win. Also, there will be a fast time bonus of $100. The top 14 in qualifying automatically advance to the feature field where an invert will determine those starting positions. Positions 15-24 will be lined up 'straight up' from the Last Chance finish(es). Press Release (06-10-08)
Since 1973 the Keith Fleck Miller 100 has been a staple event at Hawkeye Downs Speedway in Cedar Rapids, IA. The 2008 edition will be the second year in a row that the ASA Kwik Trip Midwest Tour presented by ECHO Outdoor Power Equipment will be involved with this special event. "It started back in the early 70's when my Dad, Keith Fleck wanted to get more involved with racing, but felt he was too old to race himself," Dudley Fleck stated. "He had always sponsored local drivers through his business, which was the local Falstaff and Miller distributor. In the early years it was called the "Falstaff 100" and soon became one of the more prestigious, if not lucrative races to win of any dirt track in the Midwest." Press Release (06-9-08)
After four events, Matt Kocourek and Nick Murgic are showing that each are worthy of the Lane Automotive Rookie of the Year presented by Red Line Synthetic Oil and Hyperco. But, don't count out Adam Hensel with the fifth event coming up this Friday at Hawkeye Downs in Cedar Rapids, IA. Murgic made his first visit to Dells Raceway Park and appeared to have quickly adapted to the 1/3-mile oval. He started out the day by qualifying third, only 0.030 seconds behind fast qualifier Dan Fredrickson. He would finish 13th in the Miller Lite 100 presented by Arby's, the highest finishing rookie. Press Release (06-9-08)
ASA Kwik Trip Midwest Tour presented by ECHO Outdoor Power Equipment officials have announced that Hawkeye Racing News (HRN) has been named as the Official Racing Newspaper of the series. HRN is one of the most well-known racing newspapers covering the racing action in the Midwest. Press Release (06-6-08)
With Donny Reuvers win and Andrew Morrissey's third place finish, both drivers were able to gain points on current point leader Dan Fredrickson in the ASA Kwik Trip Midwest Tour presented by ECHO Outdoor Power Equipment point standings. Fredrickson currently has a 62 point lead over Morrissey and a 64 point lead over Reuvers after four events. In the ASAMT, every race counts towards the 2008 championship. A driver can earn up to a total of 160 points per event with 100 for the feature win, 20 for the fast time, 20 for winning the heat, and 20 appearance points. The top eight are currently within that 160 point range. Press Release (06-6-08)
DELLS WRAP-UP NOTES By Kevin Ramsell (06-2-08)
Donny Reuvers has always been a patient driver behind the wheel of his Toyota Camry. Today, that patience paid off as he collects his first ASA Kwik Trip Midwest Tour presented by ECHO Outdoor Power Equipment win by taking the Miller Lite 100 presented by Arby's at Dells Raceway Park in Wisconsin Dells, WI. Press Release (06-2-08)