Sunday night marked another 90-minute trip to the north as I once again visited the I-35 Speedway in Mason City. Tonight's races would conclude with familiar races in victory lane.
Ken Winkowitsch captured the lead at the start of the junior hornet feature and never looked back as he once again took home the checkers. Patrick Barrett appeared to have won the pro hornet feature, but he was docked a couple spots for jumping. This handed the win over to Jesse Harang.
Terry Litwiler would jump out to the early lead of the hobby stock main event, but Chad Gentz quickly took it away on the second lap. While Gentz had a tight grip on the lead, Stac Schroeder moved his machine to the runner up spot at the halfway point of the race. On the next circuit, Schroeder would be contend with two other cars as they went three-wide down the front stretch. Schroeder got stuck on the outside groove and his car slid up the banking in turn two, costing him two spots. After the final caution of the race, Mick Meyers made his way to second, but he didn't have anything for Chad Gentz as Gentz motored to the win. Meyers was second, Nathan Solberg was third, Cory Gansen battled back from an early wreck to finish fourth, and Stac Schroeder was fifth. Schroeder actually crossed the line third, but was docked two positions for jumping on a restart.
Up next would be the 360 (bmods) feature. John Warrington led the first couple of laps before giving it up to Dan Tenold on lap three. Nate Chodur quickly moved to the front of the pack as he found himself in second on lap four. Adam Ackerman was also on the move as he started 11th and made his way to fourth at the midpoint of the race. Bob Sutherland was also in the mix for the lead as he and Chodur hounded Tenold for the top spot. Sutherland would take command of the second spot late in the race and give it one last effort on the top side for the lead, but Tenold's car was too strong as he went on to take home the trophy. Sutherland finished a close second, Chodur third, Adam Ackerman fourth, and Matt Hoeft rounded out the top five.
Only twelve IMCA stock cars were on hand tonight for their fifteen lap main event. Larry Portis jumped out front early on while Brad Broers slid in behind for second. Both drivers distanced themselves from the pack until a caution on lap six bunched the field back up again. After the restart, Portis began to pull away from Broers until Broers went pitside with only two laps remaining. Speculation has it that the right rear tire was flat on the backstretch for him. No caution flag came out as he made it off the track, allowing Portis to take home the easy win. Ryan Hiscocks held off several challenges from Kevin Opheim for second and third, respectively, while Bert McDaniel and Joe Willier rounded out the top five.
The finale of the night would be the twenty lap IMCA modified feature. Levi Nielsen took the lead early after starting on the pole, but during a caution flag it was determined that he was leaking fuel. Officials stopped him on the track and found that he was missing the gas cap, forcing him to the pits to get one put on. He would rejoin the field, but had to play catch up from the tail. This handed the lead over to Terrance Prochaska with Rich Lewerke right behind him. The two battled for a couple laps before Prochaska went into turn one a little hot and slid up the track, allowing Lewerke to dart by on the bottom groove for the lead. Lewerke would pull away from the field as Jeremy Mills began his challenge on Prochaska. During a caution period, Mills stopped to tell officials his helmet visor was filled with oil from race leader Lewerke's car. Lewerke stayed out front that time, but another caution immediately followed and Lewerke pulled off the backstretch to avoid further damage. After the races it was determined that it was the rear end that sidelined Lewerke. With Lewerke out of the picture, Mills inherited the lead and would take home the win. Rob Rose finished second, but his motor blew just before crossing the finish line. Todd Stinehart, Alex Hanson, and Shane Monson completed the top five.
After the races I introduced myself to stock car driver Travis Shipman. Travis has been out of action the last couple of weeks due to a blown motor, but had things back in place for tonight. While things didn't go his way tonight, he was very friendly and took the time to chat.
As some may know, I'm "in charge" of the Mason City fantasy league. Wendy Wood is a participant in the league. When she emailed me her picks on Sunday, she included an invitation to visit the trailer and introduce myself. She mentioned that she and her husband read my blog here at positivelyracing.com. For those that may not know, Wendy Wood and her husband Dan are the owners of Rich Lewerke's car. I chatted with them for several minutes about the blog and upcoming races. Both were very friendly and gave me compliments of my writing skills.
It was nice meeting both Travis Shipman and the Wood family. For those of you that attend the I-35 Speedway in Mason City and take the time to visit drivers afterwards, I encourage you to stop by both trailers and visit with them.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Mark Elliott Wins 2, Picks Up Career Win 200
Growing up as a kid, Mark Elliott probably never dreamed of a career like he has been fortunate to have. Tonight he conquered a substantial notch in the belt as he picked up feature wins in both the stock cars and the IMCA modifieds at the Hamilton County Speedway in Webster City. The stock car win propelled his total to 150 career stock car wins, while the modified win later on gave him 200 total for his career! Congratulations on the accomplishment Mark.
The features would start off with the IMCA sport compacts. Gary Peiffer would take home top honors as he has now won every Saturday night except one at the Hamilton County Speedway.
Next up would be the IMCA hobby stocks. Chace Pruismann would power his machine to the top spot from the pole, but he soon felt pressure from Andy Jones. Jones worked his way to the front after starting sixth and took the lead on lap four, but the caution flag waved to negate the pass. On the ensuing restart, Jones again put his foot on the gas and took the top spot away using the high line of the track. Ryan Caquelin was maneuvering through traffic and found himself up to fourth after starting fourteenth, but a flat tire would end his night with only four laps to go. Jones would take home the win while Pruismann settled for second. T.J. Mortenson was third, Justin Ades fourth, and Craig Graham rounded out the top five.
One of the more exciting races of the night would be the stock car feature. Ryan Leeman took command early on while deeper in the field, Jason Wagoner was making his way to the front. Wagoner made his way to fourth on the second circuit after starting tenth. Mike Wiemann would take the lead as Wagoner followed him to settle in to second. At this point in the race, most of the cars were using the top side of the track. But not Mark Elliott. Elliott continued to take his car to the bottom of the corners and made it work. Elliott would slowly pick cars off and finally took the lead just before taking the white flag as he took home his 150th career stock car feature. Jason Wagoner followed him across the line for second, Ryan Leeman was third, Curt Hook finished fourth, and Jason Minnehan rounded out the top five. A scary moment occurred during the race as Todd Foster went low in turn one and apparently the left front tire either caught a tire or the inside burm and sent his machine in the air. The car must have rolled about eight times, but fortunately he got out of the car on his own power.
The IMCA sportmod feature was next to hit the track as twenty-one competitors were checked in tonight. Bill Hoover jumped out to the early lead from his second row start. Austin Kaplan was charging towards the front as he made his way to third by about lap seven. Kaplan tried to use the cushion to his advantage to get around the leader Hoover, but the momentum wasn't enough to get by as Hoover took home the win. Kaplan held off Brandon Leeman at the line for second and third, respectively, followed by point leader Matt Lettow and Rocky Caudle.
Mark Elliott grabbed the lead of the IMCA modified feature on the first lapped and never looked back. A caution on lap seven that sidelined Adam Larson was the only thing that slowed Elliott down as he won by half of the front stretch. Scott Olson finished a distant second as he held off Jon Snyder. Mike Bennett, Ryan Ruter, and Adam Larson completed the field of cars. As mentioned earlier, this win would be Elliott's 200th career win. He took a parade lap around the track to celebrate.
The final event of the night would be the IMCA late models. Jason Hahne took the early advantage by racing his machine to the bottom side of pole sitter Scott Anderson. Ryan Griffith followed Hahne to the front as he settled in behind, but Hahne extended his lead by almost a straight away. Around the midpoint of the race, Darrel DeFrance made his way to second with Todd Cooney following him to third. Cooney would get by DeFrance on the following lap and set his sights on Hahne. Al Johnson took his car to the top side of the track and made up some ground as he raced into third around DeFrance. But nobody had anything for Jason Hahne as would take the win. Cooney was second, Ryan Griffith got by Al Johnson at the line for third and fourth, respectively, and Darrel DeFrance rounded out the top five. Kelly Tapper started shotgun on the field (14th) and finished sixth.
While the car count was a little low tonight, the racing action proved to be pretty good. Hopefully cars will return in the next few weeks. Races were done shortly before 10pm, plenty of time for people to make their way home or down to the pits to talk with their favorite drivers. Next week will be Kids Night as car rides will be given at the start of the night while a nickel and candy toss will be done during intermission.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
The features would start off with the IMCA sport compacts. Gary Peiffer would take home top honors as he has now won every Saturday night except one at the Hamilton County Speedway.
Next up would be the IMCA hobby stocks. Chace Pruismann would power his machine to the top spot from the pole, but he soon felt pressure from Andy Jones. Jones worked his way to the front after starting sixth and took the lead on lap four, but the caution flag waved to negate the pass. On the ensuing restart, Jones again put his foot on the gas and took the top spot away using the high line of the track. Ryan Caquelin was maneuvering through traffic and found himself up to fourth after starting fourteenth, but a flat tire would end his night with only four laps to go. Jones would take home the win while Pruismann settled for second. T.J. Mortenson was third, Justin Ades fourth, and Craig Graham rounded out the top five.
One of the more exciting races of the night would be the stock car feature. Ryan Leeman took command early on while deeper in the field, Jason Wagoner was making his way to the front. Wagoner made his way to fourth on the second circuit after starting tenth. Mike Wiemann would take the lead as Wagoner followed him to settle in to second. At this point in the race, most of the cars were using the top side of the track. But not Mark Elliott. Elliott continued to take his car to the bottom of the corners and made it work. Elliott would slowly pick cars off and finally took the lead just before taking the white flag as he took home his 150th career stock car feature. Jason Wagoner followed him across the line for second, Ryan Leeman was third, Curt Hook finished fourth, and Jason Minnehan rounded out the top five. A scary moment occurred during the race as Todd Foster went low in turn one and apparently the left front tire either caught a tire or the inside burm and sent his machine in the air. The car must have rolled about eight times, but fortunately he got out of the car on his own power.
The IMCA sportmod feature was next to hit the track as twenty-one competitors were checked in tonight. Bill Hoover jumped out to the early lead from his second row start. Austin Kaplan was charging towards the front as he made his way to third by about lap seven. Kaplan tried to use the cushion to his advantage to get around the leader Hoover, but the momentum wasn't enough to get by as Hoover took home the win. Kaplan held off Brandon Leeman at the line for second and third, respectively, followed by point leader Matt Lettow and Rocky Caudle.
Mark Elliott grabbed the lead of the IMCA modified feature on the first lapped and never looked back. A caution on lap seven that sidelined Adam Larson was the only thing that slowed Elliott down as he won by half of the front stretch. Scott Olson finished a distant second as he held off Jon Snyder. Mike Bennett, Ryan Ruter, and Adam Larson completed the field of cars. As mentioned earlier, this win would be Elliott's 200th career win. He took a parade lap around the track to celebrate.
The final event of the night would be the IMCA late models. Jason Hahne took the early advantage by racing his machine to the bottom side of pole sitter Scott Anderson. Ryan Griffith followed Hahne to the front as he settled in behind, but Hahne extended his lead by almost a straight away. Around the midpoint of the race, Darrel DeFrance made his way to second with Todd Cooney following him to third. Cooney would get by DeFrance on the following lap and set his sights on Hahne. Al Johnson took his car to the top side of the track and made up some ground as he raced into third around DeFrance. But nobody had anything for Jason Hahne as would take the win. Cooney was second, Ryan Griffith got by Al Johnson at the line for third and fourth, respectively, and Darrel DeFrance rounded out the top five. Kelly Tapper started shotgun on the field (14th) and finished sixth.
While the car count was a little low tonight, the racing action proved to be pretty good. Hopefully cars will return in the next few weeks. Races were done shortly before 10pm, plenty of time for people to make their way home or down to the pits to talk with their favorite drivers. Next week will be Kids Night as car rides will be given at the start of the night while a nickel and candy toss will be done during intermission.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Travis Peterson Scores Win at Fairmont
The Tapfan Tour decided to make a journey to the northwest to the Fairmont Raceway in Fairmont, Minnesota. I've been there a couple of times for special events, but this would mark the first time at a weekly event. I've read the message boards on the internet and noticed Fairmont seems to always have a great car count, so I wanted to see what it was like in person.
While driving down I-90 the clouds were starting to make me worry about deciding to venture all this way. Fortunately only a quick light shower would be all that dropped from the skies and the racing action would go on as scheduled. Promoter Joe Ringsdorf had the track in good condition, although it was plenty dry in case of weather. The surface appeared to be very smooth for the drivers and multiple lanes of racing would be used on this night.
Blair Schultz would take command of the junior hornets from start and lead every lap on his way to victory lane. Jay DeVries looked to have the hornet feature under control, but Nate Coopman made the winning pass as the field took the white flag. Coopman would go on to the win, or so it appeared. For the first time that I can remember, Cory Peters attempted to claim Coopman after the race. Apparently when there is a claim in the hornets, the person doing the claiming gets the ENTIRE CAR! Coopman would deny the claim and therefore forfeiting the feature win to Bentley Glaser.
Fourteen hobby stocks took the green flag for their twelve lap feature. Nate Manderfield grabbed the lead early on, but would quickly give way to Dustin Wannarka on the second lap. Manderfield would battle back and make a move to the inside of Wannarka, but pushed it a little hard as his car spun in turn four. A few laps later, Wannarka would experience the same as he spun out while leading by several car lengths. This handed the lead over to Brandon Mosloski, but he quickly received heavy pressure from Dustin Larson. Larson would snare the lead away in turn two and never look back on his way to the checkers. Mosloski was second, Chad Carlson had a good run to finish third, Wes Jahnz was fourth, and Ryan Black rounded out the top five.
The 360's (bmods) were up next as a great field of twenty-six cars started the feature. Travis DeBoer took the narrow lead on the first lap, but a huge pileup in turn three slowed the field down in a hurry. Eleven cars were involved in the wreck that may have been caused by the dust on the backstretch. Nonetheless, several cars suffered extensive damage and retired to their pits.
When the green flag came back out, Dan Hanselman took over the top spot, making the pass on the bottom side of the speedway. Josh Ruby was making a charge to the front as he took over third on lap four. By the time the crossed flags were shown to the drivers signaling the halfway point of the race, Jake Simpson had recovered nicely from the pileup and raced his way back to the top five. Simpson kept his momentum up by using the top side of the track, picking off cars at will, and made the pass on Hanselman with two laps to go. Hanselman moved up to try to track Simpson back down, but it wasn't enough and Simpson took home the top prize. Hanselman settled for second, Josh Ruby finished third, Troy Gochanour was fourth after starting fifteenth, and early leader Travis DeBoer finished fifth.
Sixteen IMCA stock cars were set to do battle next on the big half-mile speedplant. Brad Scheibel took the lead early on from the pole, but his luck ran out as he pulled into the pits while the race was under caution on lap three. Crew members looked under the hood, but the damage must have been done as a push truck assisted him to his trailer. Tom Suess inherited the lead from the point, but he quickly received pressure from last week's feature winner Ken Tietz and Jake Masters. The three raced three wide for a couple laps before Suess gained the advantage. Tietz and Suess swapped the lead for a couple laps, but Suess hammered his way back to the lead on the top side and would never look back as he took the checkered flags first. Ned Kalis made a few moves late in the race to finish in a strong second place, Jeffrey Larson battled his way up to third, Ken Tietz slipped back to fourth, and Jake Masters rounded out the top five.
A great field of IMCA modifieds were on hand tonight as twenty-two cars started the main event. Paul Burger, making only his second start of the season at the Fairmont Raceway, jumped out to the early lead from the outside front row. Pole sitter Travis Peterson wasn't about to let Burger race away from him as he challenged the leader on the bottom side. Burger would maintain a slight edge for the lead lap by lap as he worked the high side while Peterson's car was working great on the bottom side. Peterson's persistence paid off as he took the lead with just four laps remaining and went on to take the win. Jeff Ignaszewski and Paul Burger made contact on the front stretch with a few laps to go that resulted in "Iggy" suffering a flat tire. The contact also slowed Burger down as he lost several positions. Clint Hattlestad would get by to finish second, Troy Swearingen was third, Jason Cummins fourth, and Terry Hanning finished in fifth after starting dead last (22nd).
The night was filled with great racing action as the show was moved along in quick fashion. I believe the final checkers waved sometime around 9:45. Hard to beat that for a Friday night. It also allowed me a little extra time to stop and eat on the way before making the 3+ hour trip home. If you're in the Fairmont area on Friday nights, be sure to check out the races at the fast half-mile. Hot laps get under way at 7pm every Friday with racing to follow.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
While driving down I-90 the clouds were starting to make me worry about deciding to venture all this way. Fortunately only a quick light shower would be all that dropped from the skies and the racing action would go on as scheduled. Promoter Joe Ringsdorf had the track in good condition, although it was plenty dry in case of weather. The surface appeared to be very smooth for the drivers and multiple lanes of racing would be used on this night.
Blair Schultz would take command of the junior hornets from start and lead every lap on his way to victory lane. Jay DeVries looked to have the hornet feature under control, but Nate Coopman made the winning pass as the field took the white flag. Coopman would go on to the win, or so it appeared. For the first time that I can remember, Cory Peters attempted to claim Coopman after the race. Apparently when there is a claim in the hornets, the person doing the claiming gets the ENTIRE CAR! Coopman would deny the claim and therefore forfeiting the feature win to Bentley Glaser.
Fourteen hobby stocks took the green flag for their twelve lap feature. Nate Manderfield grabbed the lead early on, but would quickly give way to Dustin Wannarka on the second lap. Manderfield would battle back and make a move to the inside of Wannarka, but pushed it a little hard as his car spun in turn four. A few laps later, Wannarka would experience the same as he spun out while leading by several car lengths. This handed the lead over to Brandon Mosloski, but he quickly received heavy pressure from Dustin Larson. Larson would snare the lead away in turn two and never look back on his way to the checkers. Mosloski was second, Chad Carlson had a good run to finish third, Wes Jahnz was fourth, and Ryan Black rounded out the top five.
The 360's (bmods) were up next as a great field of twenty-six cars started the feature. Travis DeBoer took the narrow lead on the first lap, but a huge pileup in turn three slowed the field down in a hurry. Eleven cars were involved in the wreck that may have been caused by the dust on the backstretch. Nonetheless, several cars suffered extensive damage and retired to their pits.
When the green flag came back out, Dan Hanselman took over the top spot, making the pass on the bottom side of the speedway. Josh Ruby was making a charge to the front as he took over third on lap four. By the time the crossed flags were shown to the drivers signaling the halfway point of the race, Jake Simpson had recovered nicely from the pileup and raced his way back to the top five. Simpson kept his momentum up by using the top side of the track, picking off cars at will, and made the pass on Hanselman with two laps to go. Hanselman moved up to try to track Simpson back down, but it wasn't enough and Simpson took home the top prize. Hanselman settled for second, Josh Ruby finished third, Troy Gochanour was fourth after starting fifteenth, and early leader Travis DeBoer finished fifth.
Sixteen IMCA stock cars were set to do battle next on the big half-mile speedplant. Brad Scheibel took the lead early on from the pole, but his luck ran out as he pulled into the pits while the race was under caution on lap three. Crew members looked under the hood, but the damage must have been done as a push truck assisted him to his trailer. Tom Suess inherited the lead from the point, but he quickly received pressure from last week's feature winner Ken Tietz and Jake Masters. The three raced three wide for a couple laps before Suess gained the advantage. Tietz and Suess swapped the lead for a couple laps, but Suess hammered his way back to the lead on the top side and would never look back as he took the checkered flags first. Ned Kalis made a few moves late in the race to finish in a strong second place, Jeffrey Larson battled his way up to third, Ken Tietz slipped back to fourth, and Jake Masters rounded out the top five.
A great field of IMCA modifieds were on hand tonight as twenty-two cars started the main event. Paul Burger, making only his second start of the season at the Fairmont Raceway, jumped out to the early lead from the outside front row. Pole sitter Travis Peterson wasn't about to let Burger race away from him as he challenged the leader on the bottom side. Burger would maintain a slight edge for the lead lap by lap as he worked the high side while Peterson's car was working great on the bottom side. Peterson's persistence paid off as he took the lead with just four laps remaining and went on to take the win. Jeff Ignaszewski and Paul Burger made contact on the front stretch with a few laps to go that resulted in "Iggy" suffering a flat tire. The contact also slowed Burger down as he lost several positions. Clint Hattlestad would get by to finish second, Troy Swearingen was third, Jason Cummins fourth, and Terry Hanning finished in fifth after starting dead last (22nd).
The night was filled with great racing action as the show was moved along in quick fashion. I believe the final checkers waved sometime around 9:45. Hard to beat that for a Friday night. It also allowed me a little extra time to stop and eat on the way before making the 3+ hour trip home. If you're in the Fairmont area on Friday nights, be sure to check out the races at the fast half-mile. Hot laps get under way at 7pm every Friday with racing to follow.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Calhoun County Speedway Opener
Thursday, May 28 marked the season opener event at the Calhoun County Speedway in Rockwell City. This track is set to run five races on Thursdays throughout the season after running a handful of events last year. Unfortunately not many cars decided to try out the track on this night as only thirty-three cars or so were on hand.
The first feature of the night would be the front wheel drive class. Five cars took the green flag and Dustin Haggard took the lead on the third lap, but a couple laps later Tyler Pickett made a bold move on the top side as he got past two cars to take over the lead. Pickett made it look easy from there on as he grabbed the checkers first. Haggard was second, Cory Flanigan third, Mike Monnehan (spelling) fourth, and David Williams rounded out the field.
Up next would be the econo feature. This class also allows enduro cars to run with them, evident as several drivers were not wearing protective firesuits. Jess Bieret would immediately take a stranglehold on the field as he raced out front and never looked back. He would take the easy win over the seven car field as only two cars were on the lead lap at the finish. Austin Reicks finished a distant second, Josh Niemand third, and Brian Williams fourth.
Michael Murphy got the early jump on the field in the hobby stock feature as he led the first couple of laps. His lead would evaporate as Devin Smith quickly closed in and challenged for the top spot. The two drivers swapped positions several times for three laps before Smith would eventually retire to the pits as a result of a flat tire. From that point on Murphy had it on cruise control as he took home the hardware ahead of Cody Gustoff. Michael Becker finished third while Daniel Hilsabeck limped his car across the line in fourth after suffering a flat tire on the white flag lap.
Eight cars took the green flag in the sportmod feature event. Brett Meyer raced to the lead from the pole, but the caution quickly came out after the first lap was in the books as a spring came to a rest on the inside of the track on the front stretch. The following caution came as a result of an electrical issue as the yellow and red lights came on in the corners. But these distractions didn't stop Meyer as he held off a few challenges from Tony Pogeler to capture the top prize. Mike Bailey was third and Jay Brannan rounded out the cars remaining on the track at the finish.
The final event of the night would prove to be the most exciting race. Donovan Smith and Mike VanGenderen led the field of stock cars to the green flag. The two drivers battled side by side going into turn three, but Mike Jergens snuck his car to the inside of both cars and made contact with Smith's car. Smith's car turned sideways as the tire caught a bump and bounced into the air, landing on the hood of VanGenderen's car. Smith took his car to the pits after that while both VanGenderen and Jergens remained in the race. On the restart, VanGenderen grabbed the lead down the front stretch just before more contact was made in turn two behind him. Apparently Dustin Smith and Brian Blessington made contact that sent Smith towards the outside and collecting a helpless Bill Reetz's machine. Reetz drove his car to the pits while Smith was assisted by a tow truck.
When the race resumed, VanGenderen received heavy pressure from David Smith as the two raced side by side for a couple laps. Smith dove to the inside in turn three, but his left front wheel came off the ground and his car pushed up into VanGenderen's door panel. VanGenderen's car got loose, but caught the right rear of Smith's car resulting in Smith spinning entering turn one. Track officials sent both cars to the tail as Smith was the cause of the caution flag and VanGenderen was tagged with questionable driving.
This handed the lead over to Mike Jergens, who looked to have things well in hand after taking the white flag. However, his car would get loose coming out of turn two on the final lap, allowing the other three remaining cars to join the battle for the top spot. Entering turn three, David Smith maneuvered his car to the inside of Brian Blessington's car and slid up just enough to make Blessington tap the brakes as Smith took home the narrow victory. Blessington was second, VanGenderen third, and Jergens rounded out the finishing field.
What a wild finish to a decent night of racing! While the car count was considerably low, the drivers put on a good show for the fans. Hopefully the track crew can get the corner lights issue fixed before their next night of racing on Thursday, June 25th. Best of luck to the Calhoun County Speedway.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
The first feature of the night would be the front wheel drive class. Five cars took the green flag and Dustin Haggard took the lead on the third lap, but a couple laps later Tyler Pickett made a bold move on the top side as he got past two cars to take over the lead. Pickett made it look easy from there on as he grabbed the checkers first. Haggard was second, Cory Flanigan third, Mike Monnehan (spelling) fourth, and David Williams rounded out the field.
Up next would be the econo feature. This class also allows enduro cars to run with them, evident as several drivers were not wearing protective firesuits. Jess Bieret would immediately take a stranglehold on the field as he raced out front and never looked back. He would take the easy win over the seven car field as only two cars were on the lead lap at the finish. Austin Reicks finished a distant second, Josh Niemand third, and Brian Williams fourth.
Michael Murphy got the early jump on the field in the hobby stock feature as he led the first couple of laps. His lead would evaporate as Devin Smith quickly closed in and challenged for the top spot. The two drivers swapped positions several times for three laps before Smith would eventually retire to the pits as a result of a flat tire. From that point on Murphy had it on cruise control as he took home the hardware ahead of Cody Gustoff. Michael Becker finished third while Daniel Hilsabeck limped his car across the line in fourth after suffering a flat tire on the white flag lap.
Eight cars took the green flag in the sportmod feature event. Brett Meyer raced to the lead from the pole, but the caution quickly came out after the first lap was in the books as a spring came to a rest on the inside of the track on the front stretch. The following caution came as a result of an electrical issue as the yellow and red lights came on in the corners. But these distractions didn't stop Meyer as he held off a few challenges from Tony Pogeler to capture the top prize. Mike Bailey was third and Jay Brannan rounded out the cars remaining on the track at the finish.
The final event of the night would prove to be the most exciting race. Donovan Smith and Mike VanGenderen led the field of stock cars to the green flag. The two drivers battled side by side going into turn three, but Mike Jergens snuck his car to the inside of both cars and made contact with Smith's car. Smith's car turned sideways as the tire caught a bump and bounced into the air, landing on the hood of VanGenderen's car. Smith took his car to the pits after that while both VanGenderen and Jergens remained in the race. On the restart, VanGenderen grabbed the lead down the front stretch just before more contact was made in turn two behind him. Apparently Dustin Smith and Brian Blessington made contact that sent Smith towards the outside and collecting a helpless Bill Reetz's machine. Reetz drove his car to the pits while Smith was assisted by a tow truck.
When the race resumed, VanGenderen received heavy pressure from David Smith as the two raced side by side for a couple laps. Smith dove to the inside in turn three, but his left front wheel came off the ground and his car pushed up into VanGenderen's door panel. VanGenderen's car got loose, but caught the right rear of Smith's car resulting in Smith spinning entering turn one. Track officials sent both cars to the tail as Smith was the cause of the caution flag and VanGenderen was tagged with questionable driving.
This handed the lead over to Mike Jergens, who looked to have things well in hand after taking the white flag. However, his car would get loose coming out of turn two on the final lap, allowing the other three remaining cars to join the battle for the top spot. Entering turn three, David Smith maneuvered his car to the inside of Brian Blessington's car and slid up just enough to make Blessington tap the brakes as Smith took home the narrow victory. Blessington was second, VanGenderen third, and Jergens rounded out the finishing field.
What a wild finish to a decent night of racing! While the car count was considerably low, the drivers put on a good show for the fans. Hopefully the track crew can get the corner lights issue fixed before their next night of racing on Thursday, June 25th. Best of luck to the Calhoun County Speedway.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Tim Rupp Scores First Career Sportmod Win at Alta
Making only his fifth start in an IMCA sportmod, Tim Rupp found his way to victory lane in grand fashion as he took the lead at the start of the race and never looked back. Rupp made the jump from the IMCA hobby stock division in which, ironically, he also picked up his first win in that division at the Buena Vista Raceway in Alta last year. As exciting as that was for him, the rest of the night was also full of excitement and chaos.
Four IMCA sport compacts visited the track tonight along with three "guest drivers". Eagle, Nebraska driver John Sedlachek made the long three and a half hour tow worth it as he took home top honors. Josh Egesdal, Cory Flanigan, and Mark Lindgren rounded out the field.
Two caution flags waved before the first lap of the IMCA hobby stock feature was completed. On the initial start, Ryan Roder and Devin Smith were casualties as both drivers went to the pit area for the remainder of the night. Mark Hill took command early on once the green flag came out, but Cherokee driver Kyle Robinson was right there keeping pace. At one point, five cars were battling for the top spot before a caution flag settled things down. Robinson would power his machine around Hill for the top spot as the race hit the midpoint with Rusty Montagne also getting by Hill for second. Shannon Anderson, who started 11th, methodically worked his way to the front and challenged Montagne for the runner up spot with just three laps to go. A caution flag waved on the next circuit, setting up a two lap shootout. The top three cars broke away from the rest of the field as Anderson again tried to challenge Montagne for second, but he came up short at the line as both drivers followed Robinson to the checkers. Montagne was second, Anderson third, Justin Nehring was fourth, and Craig Brotherton rebounded nicely after being involved in a caution to finish fifth.
Twelve laps was the distance for the IMCA sportmod feature, but it only took Tim Rupp the first lap to grab the lead and start to break away from the field. Brett Meyer quickly made his way to third after just two laps after starting eighth. Meyer would slip past Mike Bailey going into turn one on the inside of the track. But Meyer could not run down Tim Rupp as he led every lap in the flag to flag race to pick up his first career sportmod win in only his fifth start. That's quite an accomplishment if you ask me! Meyer finished second, Bailey was third, Tony Pogeler fourth, and Doug Smith charged his way to fifth after starting sixteenth. Smith suffered mechanical issues in the heat race, but obviously fixed the issue.
Sixteen IMCA stock cars hit the track next for their fifteen lap feature event. Not to be outdone, this race would not see a caution flag. After taking the green flag, the top spot was hotly contested as cars went three-wide coming out of turn two and into the next set of corners. Jason Ward would lead the first two laps before giving way to Trent Murphy. David Smith and Josh Suhr battled side by side for third while Dustin Smith started reeling both of them in. Back up front Donovan Smith was starting to cut into Murphy's lead, but it was not enough as Trent Murphy went on to take the win. Donovan Smith settled for second, Dustin Smith got by brother David Smith for third, and Josh Suhr completed the top five.
The most interesting and intriguing race of the night would prove to be the twenty lap feature for the IMCA modifieds. Stacey Mills appeared to be shot out of a cannon as he jumped out front to an early lead. After a couple restarts, Chris Abelson found himself challenging for second as he completed a slidejob on Jeremy Mills. Mills did not like the way the pass was made as he made contact with Abelson's rear bumper coming off the corner. This would be the start of complete chaos as Abelson, Mills, Nick Deal, and Brad Williams would make contact with one another throughout the next couple of laps, including caution flag periods. The crowd was on their feet in anticipation of seeing who was going to what next. Mills was lined up on the inside of Abelson on a restart, but the two made contact in turn four before the field got to the flagstand to bring out another caution. Mills kept his machine moving, but Abelson and Nick Deal were not so fortunate. The crowd was really getting into by this time, cheering and booing different drivers. After another caution waved on lap fourteen, Jeremy Mills kept paced with his brother Stacey as the two would battle it out for the top spot. Jeremy would attempt a couple slide jobs to get by, but Stacey outsmarted him every time to maintain the lead. Jeremy tried one last effort on the last lap, but Stacey's car was too strong as he held off his brother at the line. Reese Coffee finished third, Jeff Nielsen was fourth, and Nick Deal battled back to finish in fifth.
The wild and wacky night finished up with a stock car King of the Hill race. The finals came down to feature winner Trent Murphy versus David Smith. A local sponsor put up $250 for the winner, so flagman Toby Kruse conducted a coin toss to make it fair to both drivers. Murphy would line up on the inside with Smith outside for the two lap shootout. Neither car wanted to budge an inch as Smith cut down low and Murphy leaned on Smith throughout the first lap. Going into turn three on the final lap, Smith gained the advantage on the outside and powered his machine to the extra money.
Quite a night of racing at the Buena Vista Raceway tonight!! The track will not be running its normal Wednesday night of racing next week as the track will host the USMTS series on Thursday, June 4th. Check the track website or the USMTS website for start times. Last year's event saw Kelly Shryock and Jason Krohn battle it out to the checkered flag for an exciting finish.
UNOFFICIAL RESULTS
Hobbies
1. 32 Kyle Robinson
2. T1 Rusty Montagne
3. 78 Shannon Anderson
4. 20N Justin Nehring
5. 45B Craig Brotherton
(all I got, 24 cars)
Sportmods
1. 33 Tim Rupp
2. 1M Brett Meyer
3. 98 Mike Bailey
4. 9 Tony Pogeler
5. 12 Doug Smith
6. 90 Chris Grothe
7. 44 Harvey VanderWeer (sp?)
8. 11T Geoff Olson (someone else's car?)
9. 59 Eric Puhrmann
10. 60 Tanner Powers
11. 23 Jared Hanson
12. 14z Zach Norgaard
13. 57 Doug Bartels
14. 17 Ronnie Fogelman
15. 04J Jay Brannan
16. 53 Tim Hanson
17. 83K Ken Peterson
Stock Cars
1. 25 Trent Murphy
2. 35 Donovan Smith
3. 85 Dustin Smith
4. 8 David Smith
5. 16 Josh Suhr
6. 66 Jeff Joldersma
7. 5B Stefan Sybesma
8. 92B Brian Blessington
9. 37 Mike Jergens
10. 01U Chris Ulrich
11. 41 Jason Ward
12. 7 Derick Barglof
13. 2 ??
14. 56 Tom Sierck
15. 60 Ben Sanderson
16. 3s Travis Schuller
Modifieds
1. 10E Stacy Mills
2. 10 Jeremy Mills
3. 16 Reese Coffee
4. 42 Jeff Nielsen
5. 55D Nick Deal
6. 27 Randy Brands
7. 1cc Clayton Christensen
8. 21 Jesse Hoeft
9. 17s James Slawson
10. 83 Jesse Cowles
11. 17 Justin Sackett
12. 23 Jim Thies
13. 61 Brian Schmitt
14. 1x Chris Abelson
15. 22BW Brad Williams
16. 18z Mick King
17. z3 Mike Albertson
18. 3 Jason Briese
19. 7N Jay Noteboom (DNS)
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive
Four IMCA sport compacts visited the track tonight along with three "guest drivers". Eagle, Nebraska driver John Sedlachek made the long three and a half hour tow worth it as he took home top honors. Josh Egesdal, Cory Flanigan, and Mark Lindgren rounded out the field.
Two caution flags waved before the first lap of the IMCA hobby stock feature was completed. On the initial start, Ryan Roder and Devin Smith were casualties as both drivers went to the pit area for the remainder of the night. Mark Hill took command early on once the green flag came out, but Cherokee driver Kyle Robinson was right there keeping pace. At one point, five cars were battling for the top spot before a caution flag settled things down. Robinson would power his machine around Hill for the top spot as the race hit the midpoint with Rusty Montagne also getting by Hill for second. Shannon Anderson, who started 11th, methodically worked his way to the front and challenged Montagne for the runner up spot with just three laps to go. A caution flag waved on the next circuit, setting up a two lap shootout. The top three cars broke away from the rest of the field as Anderson again tried to challenge Montagne for second, but he came up short at the line as both drivers followed Robinson to the checkers. Montagne was second, Anderson third, Justin Nehring was fourth, and Craig Brotherton rebounded nicely after being involved in a caution to finish fifth.
Twelve laps was the distance for the IMCA sportmod feature, but it only took Tim Rupp the first lap to grab the lead and start to break away from the field. Brett Meyer quickly made his way to third after just two laps after starting eighth. Meyer would slip past Mike Bailey going into turn one on the inside of the track. But Meyer could not run down Tim Rupp as he led every lap in the flag to flag race to pick up his first career sportmod win in only his fifth start. That's quite an accomplishment if you ask me! Meyer finished second, Bailey was third, Tony Pogeler fourth, and Doug Smith charged his way to fifth after starting sixteenth. Smith suffered mechanical issues in the heat race, but obviously fixed the issue.
Sixteen IMCA stock cars hit the track next for their fifteen lap feature event. Not to be outdone, this race would not see a caution flag. After taking the green flag, the top spot was hotly contested as cars went three-wide coming out of turn two and into the next set of corners. Jason Ward would lead the first two laps before giving way to Trent Murphy. David Smith and Josh Suhr battled side by side for third while Dustin Smith started reeling both of them in. Back up front Donovan Smith was starting to cut into Murphy's lead, but it was not enough as Trent Murphy went on to take the win. Donovan Smith settled for second, Dustin Smith got by brother David Smith for third, and Josh Suhr completed the top five.
The most interesting and intriguing race of the night would prove to be the twenty lap feature for the IMCA modifieds. Stacey Mills appeared to be shot out of a cannon as he jumped out front to an early lead. After a couple restarts, Chris Abelson found himself challenging for second as he completed a slidejob on Jeremy Mills. Mills did not like the way the pass was made as he made contact with Abelson's rear bumper coming off the corner. This would be the start of complete chaos as Abelson, Mills, Nick Deal, and Brad Williams would make contact with one another throughout the next couple of laps, including caution flag periods. The crowd was on their feet in anticipation of seeing who was going to what next. Mills was lined up on the inside of Abelson on a restart, but the two made contact in turn four before the field got to the flagstand to bring out another caution. Mills kept his machine moving, but Abelson and Nick Deal were not so fortunate. The crowd was really getting into by this time, cheering and booing different drivers. After another caution waved on lap fourteen, Jeremy Mills kept paced with his brother Stacey as the two would battle it out for the top spot. Jeremy would attempt a couple slide jobs to get by, but Stacey outsmarted him every time to maintain the lead. Jeremy tried one last effort on the last lap, but Stacey's car was too strong as he held off his brother at the line. Reese Coffee finished third, Jeff Nielsen was fourth, and Nick Deal battled back to finish in fifth.
The wild and wacky night finished up with a stock car King of the Hill race. The finals came down to feature winner Trent Murphy versus David Smith. A local sponsor put up $250 for the winner, so flagman Toby Kruse conducted a coin toss to make it fair to both drivers. Murphy would line up on the inside with Smith outside for the two lap shootout. Neither car wanted to budge an inch as Smith cut down low and Murphy leaned on Smith throughout the first lap. Going into turn three on the final lap, Smith gained the advantage on the outside and powered his machine to the extra money.
Quite a night of racing at the Buena Vista Raceway tonight!! The track will not be running its normal Wednesday night of racing next week as the track will host the USMTS series on Thursday, June 4th. Check the track website or the USMTS website for start times. Last year's event saw Kelly Shryock and Jason Krohn battle it out to the checkered flag for an exciting finish.
UNOFFICIAL RESULTS
Hobbies
1. 32 Kyle Robinson
2. T1 Rusty Montagne
3. 78 Shannon Anderson
4. 20N Justin Nehring
5. 45B Craig Brotherton
(all I got, 24 cars)
Sportmods
1. 33 Tim Rupp
2. 1M Brett Meyer
3. 98 Mike Bailey
4. 9 Tony Pogeler
5. 12 Doug Smith
6. 90 Chris Grothe
7. 44 Harvey VanderWeer (sp?)
8. 11T Geoff Olson (someone else's car?)
9. 59 Eric Puhrmann
10. 60 Tanner Powers
11. 23 Jared Hanson
12. 14z Zach Norgaard
13. 57 Doug Bartels
14. 17 Ronnie Fogelman
15. 04J Jay Brannan
16. 53 Tim Hanson
17. 83K Ken Peterson
Stock Cars
1. 25 Trent Murphy
2. 35 Donovan Smith
3. 85 Dustin Smith
4. 8 David Smith
5. 16 Josh Suhr
6. 66 Jeff Joldersma
7. 5B Stefan Sybesma
8. 92B Brian Blessington
9. 37 Mike Jergens
10. 01U Chris Ulrich
11. 41 Jason Ward
12. 7 Derick Barglof
13. 2 ??
14. 56 Tom Sierck
15. 60 Ben Sanderson
16. 3s Travis Schuller
Modifieds
1. 10E Stacy Mills
2. 10 Jeremy Mills
3. 16 Reese Coffee
4. 42 Jeff Nielsen
5. 55D Nick Deal
6. 27 Randy Brands
7. 1cc Clayton Christensen
8. 21 Jesse Hoeft
9. 17s James Slawson
10. 83 Jesse Cowles
11. 17 Justin Sackett
12. 23 Jim Thies
13. 61 Brian Schmitt
14. 1x Chris Abelson
15. 22BW Brad Williams
16. 18z Mick King
17. z3 Mike Albertson
18. 3 Jason Briese
19. 7N Jay Noteboom (DNS)
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive
Monday, May 25, 2009
Josh Most Picks Up First Career Deery Win at Boone
As Memorial Day weekend comes to a close, I'd like to extend my gratitude to the men and women who have served our country in the armed forces. They are the ones that allow myself and others the privilege of going to races and other activities.
"Tapfan's Tours" concluded a seven-race swing at the Boone Speedway on Memorial Day with the IMCA Deery Brothers late model series on hand along with the IMCA modifieds, IMCA stock cars, IMCA hobby stocks, and IMCA sportmods. A great field of cars were present for the holiday tradition that dates back to 2001.
The first feature to run would be the IMCA sportmods. 37 cars were on hand, but only the top twenty-four were able to start the feature as Cody Warrick quickly grabbed the lead from outside the front row. Warrick would lead the next four laps until his car drifted high on the racetrack in turn two, allowing Brett Meyer to claim the top spot. One lap later a caution flag waved to bunch up the field and Warrick's car again would not turn in the corner, allowing both Mike Pruitt and Jared Timmerman to sneak past on the low side. Matthew Meinecke would be the next car to get around Warrick's ill-handling car as he moved to the fourth spot. Meinecke wasn't satisfied with that as he challenged Timmerman for third. While that battle was going on, Luke Wanninger got by Warrick and quickly chased down the battle for third. Back up front Brett Meyer had things under control as he cruised to the win. Pruitt finished in second, Timmerman nailed down the third spot, and Luke Wanninger got past Meinecke for fourth on the final set of corners to round out the top five.
Up next would be the forty-lap IMCA Deery Brothers late model race. Jason Hahne and Craig Roberts led the field to the green flag with Hahne grabbing the lead early on. A quick caution on lap three involved eight cars, three of which would retire to the pits for the remainder of the night. When the race restarted, Terry Neal began his march to the front as the 22nd starter quickly made his way to seventh by lap five. Closer to the front, Jon Passick and Josh Most battled it out for the fourth spot. Passick got control of that position, but made a great move to the inside in turn two to take the third position on lap twelve. By lap eighteen, Craig Roberts was trying to find a way to get by Hahne for lead as Passick chased them down.
A caution three laps later for debris was a lucky break for Passick as he was penalized two spots for jumping on the previous restart. If there hadn't been a caution, Passick would have been docked at the end of the race, so this worked to his advantage. Josh Most also used this restart to his advantage as he decided to go to the top of the speedway. Most raced his way to second within a lap and would steal the lead away from Hahne the following lap. After seeing Most pull away, Hahne and Roberts both decided to take their machines to the top side of the track, but neither were able to keep up the pace. Most would enjoy a comfortable lead of a straight away when he caught lapped traffic, but that didn't slow him down as he took home his first career Deery Brothers trophy. Hahne would fend off charges from Roberts at the line for second while Todd Cooney sliced his way to a fourth place finish. Cooney advanced through a bmain and was involved in the early eight-car pileup on the third lap, but remained patient and worked his way to the front. Another driver advancing out of one of the bmains was Jeff Aikey. He followed Cooney across the line for fifth and took over the series point lead as Ray Guss Jr was four spots behind in ninth.
After the final farming session of the night, the IMCA hobby stocks took to the track for their finale. Only one feature was on the card tonight even though thirty-seven cars were in the pits. Devin Smith used the pole to his advantage as he darted out front early and never looked back as he cruised to the win. Daniel Hilsabeck followed him across the line in second while Michael Murphy, Richard Yaw II, and Aaron Rudolph rounded out the top five. The twelve-lap race went green to checkered.
Outside front row starter Jimmy Gustin took the lead at the start of the IMCA modified feature ahead of Bill Davis Jr. Davis Jr. would immediately receive pressure from hotshoe John Logue as Logue made the pass for second. A caution flag would nullify Logue's pass, placing Davis Jr back ahead of Logue. Logue would make the pass stick this time as Davis Jr's car slid up the banking in turn two as Logue set his sights on race leader Jimmy Gustin. Another caution waved on lap ten, allowing me to realize that Cale Sponsler was on the move as he was already up to fourth after starting 16th. Logue powered his car to the top side in turns three and four and motored by Gustin at the scoring line to grab the lead on lap fifteen. While there were two more caution periods, Logue would not be denied as he pulled away for the win. Gustin took home second, Sponsler capped off a great run in third, Bill Davis Jr slid back to fourth, and Russ Dickerson rounded out the top five.
The final event of the night would be the IMCA stock cars. Donovan Smith set sail on the top side of the speedway as he raced out front early on. Eight laps into the race, brother David found himself in second as he got by pole sitter Tim French. A three-way battle for the lead followed a restart as Bryan Trogdon went to the inside. This would prove to be the winning pass as Trogdon took command of the race from that point. Positions looked to be well in hand until lapped traffic played a part in the final outcome. Lapped traffic got crossed up ahead of Donovan and David Smith which led to both drivers spinning out in turn two. Both drivers got their machines refired and thus the race continuing with just three laps remaining. Trogdon would take home the trophy in convincing fashion while Trent Murphy finished second. Bryan Efkamp was third, Rod Richards fourth, and Tim French completed the top five. David Smith would finish 16th and Donovan Smith 20th as a result of their spins.
Soon after the final checkered flag waved around 9:30, Mother Nature started opening up as steady light rain graced the track. Needless to say the timing couldn't have been more perfect. The show moved along at a quick pace despite three farming sessions.
The IMCA Deery Brothers late model series will next be in action on June 16 as they make a long-awaited return to the Cresco Speedway in Cresco, Iowa. The following night, June 17, they make the journey to the Fayette County Speedway for the first time in several years.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
"Tapfan's Tours" concluded a seven-race swing at the Boone Speedway on Memorial Day with the IMCA Deery Brothers late model series on hand along with the IMCA modifieds, IMCA stock cars, IMCA hobby stocks, and IMCA sportmods. A great field of cars were present for the holiday tradition that dates back to 2001.
The first feature to run would be the IMCA sportmods. 37 cars were on hand, but only the top twenty-four were able to start the feature as Cody Warrick quickly grabbed the lead from outside the front row. Warrick would lead the next four laps until his car drifted high on the racetrack in turn two, allowing Brett Meyer to claim the top spot. One lap later a caution flag waved to bunch up the field and Warrick's car again would not turn in the corner, allowing both Mike Pruitt and Jared Timmerman to sneak past on the low side. Matthew Meinecke would be the next car to get around Warrick's ill-handling car as he moved to the fourth spot. Meinecke wasn't satisfied with that as he challenged Timmerman for third. While that battle was going on, Luke Wanninger got by Warrick and quickly chased down the battle for third. Back up front Brett Meyer had things under control as he cruised to the win. Pruitt finished in second, Timmerman nailed down the third spot, and Luke Wanninger got past Meinecke for fourth on the final set of corners to round out the top five.
Up next would be the forty-lap IMCA Deery Brothers late model race. Jason Hahne and Craig Roberts led the field to the green flag with Hahne grabbing the lead early on. A quick caution on lap three involved eight cars, three of which would retire to the pits for the remainder of the night. When the race restarted, Terry Neal began his march to the front as the 22nd starter quickly made his way to seventh by lap five. Closer to the front, Jon Passick and Josh Most battled it out for the fourth spot. Passick got control of that position, but made a great move to the inside in turn two to take the third position on lap twelve. By lap eighteen, Craig Roberts was trying to find a way to get by Hahne for lead as Passick chased them down.
A caution three laps later for debris was a lucky break for Passick as he was penalized two spots for jumping on the previous restart. If there hadn't been a caution, Passick would have been docked at the end of the race, so this worked to his advantage. Josh Most also used this restart to his advantage as he decided to go to the top of the speedway. Most raced his way to second within a lap and would steal the lead away from Hahne the following lap. After seeing Most pull away, Hahne and Roberts both decided to take their machines to the top side of the track, but neither were able to keep up the pace. Most would enjoy a comfortable lead of a straight away when he caught lapped traffic, but that didn't slow him down as he took home his first career Deery Brothers trophy. Hahne would fend off charges from Roberts at the line for second while Todd Cooney sliced his way to a fourth place finish. Cooney advanced through a bmain and was involved in the early eight-car pileup on the third lap, but remained patient and worked his way to the front. Another driver advancing out of one of the bmains was Jeff Aikey. He followed Cooney across the line for fifth and took over the series point lead as Ray Guss Jr was four spots behind in ninth.
After the final farming session of the night, the IMCA hobby stocks took to the track for their finale. Only one feature was on the card tonight even though thirty-seven cars were in the pits. Devin Smith used the pole to his advantage as he darted out front early and never looked back as he cruised to the win. Daniel Hilsabeck followed him across the line in second while Michael Murphy, Richard Yaw II, and Aaron Rudolph rounded out the top five. The twelve-lap race went green to checkered.
Outside front row starter Jimmy Gustin took the lead at the start of the IMCA modified feature ahead of Bill Davis Jr. Davis Jr. would immediately receive pressure from hotshoe John Logue as Logue made the pass for second. A caution flag would nullify Logue's pass, placing Davis Jr back ahead of Logue. Logue would make the pass stick this time as Davis Jr's car slid up the banking in turn two as Logue set his sights on race leader Jimmy Gustin. Another caution waved on lap ten, allowing me to realize that Cale Sponsler was on the move as he was already up to fourth after starting 16th. Logue powered his car to the top side in turns three and four and motored by Gustin at the scoring line to grab the lead on lap fifteen. While there were two more caution periods, Logue would not be denied as he pulled away for the win. Gustin took home second, Sponsler capped off a great run in third, Bill Davis Jr slid back to fourth, and Russ Dickerson rounded out the top five.
The final event of the night would be the IMCA stock cars. Donovan Smith set sail on the top side of the speedway as he raced out front early on. Eight laps into the race, brother David found himself in second as he got by pole sitter Tim French. A three-way battle for the lead followed a restart as Bryan Trogdon went to the inside. This would prove to be the winning pass as Trogdon took command of the race from that point. Positions looked to be well in hand until lapped traffic played a part in the final outcome. Lapped traffic got crossed up ahead of Donovan and David Smith which led to both drivers spinning out in turn two. Both drivers got their machines refired and thus the race continuing with just three laps remaining. Trogdon would take home the trophy in convincing fashion while Trent Murphy finished second. Bryan Efkamp was third, Rod Richards fourth, and Tim French completed the top five. David Smith would finish 16th and Donovan Smith 20th as a result of their spins.
Soon after the final checkered flag waved around 9:30, Mother Nature started opening up as steady light rain graced the track. Needless to say the timing couldn't have been more perfect. The show moved along at a quick pace despite three farming sessions.
The IMCA Deery Brothers late model series will next be in action on June 16 as they make a long-awaited return to the Cresco Speedway in Cresco, Iowa. The following night, June 17, they make the journey to the Fayette County Speedway for the first time in several years.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Ruter Finds Victory Lane at Mason City
A picture-perfect evening was in store for everybody at the I-35 Speedway in Mason City on Sunday. A great field of cars packed the pit area as a few travelers were on hand to get a little track time before the special on Monday. Before the races even got started, I was pleasantly surprised by Positivelyracing.com's webmaster Sue McDaniel and her daughter. Sue's husband Bert was racing as the family made the long trip north. Bert plans to race at Mason City every week as long as things go okay. Hard to believe a driver is willing to pull from three hours away to race, but I'm glad he has decided to do so. It was fun spending the night catching up with Sue and I can't wait until she is able to make another trip up again.
Ten junior hornets kicked off the feature action as newcomer Blair Schultz took home the trophy. There were also ten senior hornets that provided a little action that saw Jesse Harang get into the back of Patrick Barrett. Barrett got sideways before regaining control as Harang received the black flag for questionable driving. This turn of events allowed Nate Coopman to take home the win.
Twenty-two hobby stocks were up next as Scott Dobel took the lead early on. Right behind him saw a three-car battle for second spot in which Wayne Landheer would prevail. Landheer would not settle for second as he made the pass for the lead shortly afterwards. During this shuffle Mick Meyers went from second back to fifth, just the start of his downhill slide as his machine would show smoke and he would be forced to retire his machine to the pits. Before that turn of events, another caution preceded Meyer's and Chad Gentz would use it to his advantage as he got passed Landheer on the restart. Gentz would go on to take the win as Robert Black, Heath Tulp, Wayne Landheer, and Terry Litwiler rounded out the top five. Litwiler started 14th for an impressive run!
Twenty-five bmods took to the track next for their twelve lap main event. George Nordman would take command early on from the pole. Zach Patterson kept within striking distance the first part of the race, but he made his move at the halfway point to challenge for the top spot. His efforts would be denied, however, as Adam Ackerman charged from his 12th starting spot to take the second position away with just two laps to go. Ackerman would not be finished as he grabbed the lead away from Nordman on the following lap to take home the impressive win. Patterson got by Nordman for second in a close finish while Matt Hoeft and Shane Swanson rounded out the top five.
Mike Jergens jumped out front from the front row to set the pace early on in the IMCA stock car feature. Jergens was distancing himself from the field when he pulled off the track after sparks were seen under his car from a motor mishap. Kevin Hoeft would inherit the lead, but would be hotly contested by Ryan Hiscocks and Joe Willier. A late caution bunched the field up, which would set up a major turn of events on the restart. As the field entered turn three, Kevin Opheim would dip his car to the bottom side of the racetrack. His car did not stick, however, and it drifted up into the side of Larry Portis' machine. Opheim quickly received the black flag for questionable driving and would come to a stop in turn three the following lap. While under caution, Portis displayed his displeasure to Opheim and he too would receive the black flag for retaliating. After that excitement, Ryan Hiscocks added to it as he took advantage of Kevin Hoeft's car drifting up the track in turn two as Hiscocks took home top honors. Hoeft settled for second, Kevin Paca was third, Bert McDaniel fourth, and Joe Willier completed the top five.
Twenty-two IMCA modifieds graced the track for the final event of the night. Ryan Ruter's season has been a tough one thus far at Mason City, but he turned that around as he sailed to the easy win. Jeremy Mills tried to keep pace with Ruter during the middle part of the race, but Ruter's car was set up perfectly and would have no trouble making it to victory lane. Shane Monson finished in third, Rob Rose fourth, and J.J. Wise rounded out the top five. Wise started 19th and made his way to the front in a rebuilt race car as he suffered major damage a week ago in a crash in Webster City. I'd say whatever they did to the car worked pretty well!
Lots of action Sunday night was only a taste of what might be on tap for Monday as the I-35 Speedway hosts another night of racing. All classes will be running for a higher purse, including the modifieds racing for a $1,000 top prize. Along with the trophy, the winner will go on the ballot for the Fast Shafts All-Star Invitational race held annually at the IMCA SuperNationals in Boone during the week of Labor Day. After witnessing a good field of cars Sunday night, one can only assume the same field of drivers along with some other travelers will be in attendance on Monday night. Hot laps get under way at 6pm with racing to follow.
I personally will not be in attendance as I plan to visit the Boone Speedway for the "SuperNationals Shakedown". The event is headlined by the IMCA Deery Brothers late model series along with IMCA modifieds, IMCA stock cars, IMCA sportmods, and IMCA hobby stocks. Hot laps are slated for 4pm with racing planned for 5pm.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Ten junior hornets kicked off the feature action as newcomer Blair Schultz took home the trophy. There were also ten senior hornets that provided a little action that saw Jesse Harang get into the back of Patrick Barrett. Barrett got sideways before regaining control as Harang received the black flag for questionable driving. This turn of events allowed Nate Coopman to take home the win.
Twenty-two hobby stocks were up next as Scott Dobel took the lead early on. Right behind him saw a three-car battle for second spot in which Wayne Landheer would prevail. Landheer would not settle for second as he made the pass for the lead shortly afterwards. During this shuffle Mick Meyers went from second back to fifth, just the start of his downhill slide as his machine would show smoke and he would be forced to retire his machine to the pits. Before that turn of events, another caution preceded Meyer's and Chad Gentz would use it to his advantage as he got passed Landheer on the restart. Gentz would go on to take the win as Robert Black, Heath Tulp, Wayne Landheer, and Terry Litwiler rounded out the top five. Litwiler started 14th for an impressive run!
Twenty-five bmods took to the track next for their twelve lap main event. George Nordman would take command early on from the pole. Zach Patterson kept within striking distance the first part of the race, but he made his move at the halfway point to challenge for the top spot. His efforts would be denied, however, as Adam Ackerman charged from his 12th starting spot to take the second position away with just two laps to go. Ackerman would not be finished as he grabbed the lead away from Nordman on the following lap to take home the impressive win. Patterson got by Nordman for second in a close finish while Matt Hoeft and Shane Swanson rounded out the top five.
Mike Jergens jumped out front from the front row to set the pace early on in the IMCA stock car feature. Jergens was distancing himself from the field when he pulled off the track after sparks were seen under his car from a motor mishap. Kevin Hoeft would inherit the lead, but would be hotly contested by Ryan Hiscocks and Joe Willier. A late caution bunched the field up, which would set up a major turn of events on the restart. As the field entered turn three, Kevin Opheim would dip his car to the bottom side of the racetrack. His car did not stick, however, and it drifted up into the side of Larry Portis' machine. Opheim quickly received the black flag for questionable driving and would come to a stop in turn three the following lap. While under caution, Portis displayed his displeasure to Opheim and he too would receive the black flag for retaliating. After that excitement, Ryan Hiscocks added to it as he took advantage of Kevin Hoeft's car drifting up the track in turn two as Hiscocks took home top honors. Hoeft settled for second, Kevin Paca was third, Bert McDaniel fourth, and Joe Willier completed the top five.
Twenty-two IMCA modifieds graced the track for the final event of the night. Ryan Ruter's season has been a tough one thus far at Mason City, but he turned that around as he sailed to the easy win. Jeremy Mills tried to keep pace with Ruter during the middle part of the race, but Ruter's car was set up perfectly and would have no trouble making it to victory lane. Shane Monson finished in third, Rob Rose fourth, and J.J. Wise rounded out the top five. Wise started 19th and made his way to the front in a rebuilt race car as he suffered major damage a week ago in a crash in Webster City. I'd say whatever they did to the car worked pretty well!
Lots of action Sunday night was only a taste of what might be on tap for Monday as the I-35 Speedway hosts another night of racing. All classes will be running for a higher purse, including the modifieds racing for a $1,000 top prize. Along with the trophy, the winner will go on the ballot for the Fast Shafts All-Star Invitational race held annually at the IMCA SuperNationals in Boone during the week of Labor Day. After witnessing a good field of cars Sunday night, one can only assume the same field of drivers along with some other travelers will be in attendance on Monday night. Hot laps get under way at 6pm with racing to follow.
I personally will not be in attendance as I plan to visit the Boone Speedway for the "SuperNationals Shakedown". The event is headlined by the IMCA Deery Brothers late model series along with IMCA modifieds, IMCA stock cars, IMCA sportmods, and IMCA hobby stocks. Hot laps are slated for 4pm with racing planned for 5pm.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Donlinger Wins Quick Show at Deer Creek
The USMTS series made their first appearance of the year at the Deer Creek Speedway just north of Spring Valley, Minnesota on Saturday. Normally I'd say night, but this event had a scheduled start time at 5pm. So I guess afternoon is more appropriate this time around. Forty-two USMTS modifieds were joined on the card with twenty-one Wissota midwest modifieds along with ten Wissota super stocks. The heat races and bmains for the USMTS were run in quick fashion as very few yellows were used. In fact, the final intermission started at 6:34 which allowed track officials plenty of time to work on the track to get it in shape for the final three races of the evening.
First up would be the twenty-lap Wissota super stock feature. Kevin Hager jumped out front to lead the first lap, but Ryan Siegle powered his car around Hager's machine on the second circuit to take command of the race. Cole Queensland was making a charge to the front as he would take the lead away from Siegle around the midway point of the race and never look back as he extended his lead every lap. Behind him the battle for second heated up as Siegle, Jeff Brauer, and Shawn Huse were running three wide at times. Siegle would prevail at the line followed by Brauer and Huse. Hager slipped back to fifth at the finish.
Bob Bunne set the pace early on in the Wissota midwest modified feature. Bunne set the tone for the first half the race until he would slip high in turn two, handing the reigns over to Brandon Davis. Jerry Young was also able to scoot past to set up a good battle up front. A caution with two laps to go bunched the field up, but Young wasn't able to take advantage as Davis took home the top honors. Young settled for second, Dustin Scott came home third, Jared Boumeester was fourth, and Albert Wytaske rounded out the top five.
The USMTS feature was ready to hit the track for their thirty-five lap showdown. The race was started just a few minutes before 8:00, highlighting a quickly run program. As was the case the night before in Lansing, the final driver to redraw for the top eight starting spots garnered the pole as Tim Donlinger was the lucky man tonight. He would be joined on the front row by Kelly Shryock, who took the lead at the drop of the green. Donlinger would fall in behind with Jason Cummins riding in third. A quick caution slowed the field down. Jason Hughes was the first car to move his car to the bottom side of the speedway as he started picking off a few cars to move his way up to fourth. The yellow flag waved once again on lap fifteen, which would end up working in Cummins' favor. Shryock elected the top side of the double-file restart, but Cummins powered his car on the inside to get by both Shryock and Donlinger coming out of turn two. Cummins quickly started to pull away from the rest of the field until smoke was seen coming from his machine. A few laps later, Cummins would retire to the pits as the motor let go. Shryock used this to his advantage as he tried to reel in Donlinger in the late stages of the race, but it would be Donlinger hanging on to the win. Shryock finished just ahead of youngster Ryan Gustin. Jason Hughes was fourth and Dan Bohr rounded out the top five. Zach VanderBeek used a provisional and started twenty-third, but maneuvered through traffic to finish in eighth. Jon Tesch started just ahead of VanderBeek and would finish just behind him in ninth.
A very well-run program Saturday night. The final checkered flag waved at around 8:30, allowing fans to visit their favorite drivers in the pits or party in the campground, or to make their way home. The 50/50 drawing was an amazing $1600! The USMTS travels to Kasson tonight and will finish up their 7-day swing at the newly-designed Mississippi Thunder Speedway in Fountain City, Wisconsin on Memorial Day.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!
First up would be the twenty-lap Wissota super stock feature. Kevin Hager jumped out front to lead the first lap, but Ryan Siegle powered his car around Hager's machine on the second circuit to take command of the race. Cole Queensland was making a charge to the front as he would take the lead away from Siegle around the midway point of the race and never look back as he extended his lead every lap. Behind him the battle for second heated up as Siegle, Jeff Brauer, and Shawn Huse were running three wide at times. Siegle would prevail at the line followed by Brauer and Huse. Hager slipped back to fifth at the finish.
Bob Bunne set the pace early on in the Wissota midwest modified feature. Bunne set the tone for the first half the race until he would slip high in turn two, handing the reigns over to Brandon Davis. Jerry Young was also able to scoot past to set up a good battle up front. A caution with two laps to go bunched the field up, but Young wasn't able to take advantage as Davis took home the top honors. Young settled for second, Dustin Scott came home third, Jared Boumeester was fourth, and Albert Wytaske rounded out the top five.
The USMTS feature was ready to hit the track for their thirty-five lap showdown. The race was started just a few minutes before 8:00, highlighting a quickly run program. As was the case the night before in Lansing, the final driver to redraw for the top eight starting spots garnered the pole as Tim Donlinger was the lucky man tonight. He would be joined on the front row by Kelly Shryock, who took the lead at the drop of the green. Donlinger would fall in behind with Jason Cummins riding in third. A quick caution slowed the field down. Jason Hughes was the first car to move his car to the bottom side of the speedway as he started picking off a few cars to move his way up to fourth. The yellow flag waved once again on lap fifteen, which would end up working in Cummins' favor. Shryock elected the top side of the double-file restart, but Cummins powered his car on the inside to get by both Shryock and Donlinger coming out of turn two. Cummins quickly started to pull away from the rest of the field until smoke was seen coming from his machine. A few laps later, Cummins would retire to the pits as the motor let go. Shryock used this to his advantage as he tried to reel in Donlinger in the late stages of the race, but it would be Donlinger hanging on to the win. Shryock finished just ahead of youngster Ryan Gustin. Jason Hughes was fourth and Dan Bohr rounded out the top five. Zach VanderBeek used a provisional and started twenty-third, but maneuvered through traffic to finish in eighth. Jon Tesch started just ahead of VanderBeek and would finish just behind him in ninth.
A very well-run program Saturday night. The final checkered flag waved at around 8:30, allowing fans to visit their favorite drivers in the pits or party in the campground, or to make their way home. The 50/50 drawing was an amazing $1600! The USMTS travels to Kasson tonight and will finish up their 7-day swing at the newly-designed Mississippi Thunder Speedway in Fountain City, Wisconsin on Memorial Day.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Hughes Bags Another Win at Chateau
As the "Tapfan Tour" continues on into the Memorial Day weekend, I ventured my way north once again to follow the ground-pounding action of the USMTS tour on Friday. Only thirty-three cars were on hand, but the action was far from disappointing or dull. Both classes of hornets, Wissota midwest modifieds, and Wissota pure stocks were also in action on the tight quarter-mile facility.
Brandon Vogt took the lead early in the junior hornet race, but Michael Wytaske had other ideas as he snagged the top spot away coming to the white flag as Vogt's momentum was slowed temporarily by a lapped car. In the senior hornets, Mike Bowers looked to continue his dominating season as he jumped out front for the ten lap event. Bowers has won every feature event thus far at Chateau Raceway, but his luck would run out tonight as Gary Stahl maneuvered his car to the inside of Bowers as the two exited turn four coming to the white flag. The two swapped racing lanes on the next set of corners and Stahl won the drag race to the checkers for his first win of the season.
A good field of twenty Wissota pure stocks were the next feature to hit the track. Kevin Vogt would take command early on as he got the jump on the field from the pole. A caution flag waved on lap eight, slowing the pace and bunching the cars back up. This restart was exactly what Jason Newkirk needed as he powered his machine to the outside and got by Vogt. Vogt would have an opportunity to do the same maneuver on the next lap as the yellow flag waved again, but Newkirk would have none of it as he cruised home with the win. Vogt finished second, Brady Krohnberg was third, Stacy Krohnberg fourth, and point leader Brandon Shaner rounded out the top five.
The Wissota midwest modifieds provided one of the most exciting finishes of the night as fourteen cars battled it out. Eric Condit paced the field early on from the pole, but a quick caution flag would set up one of the most exciting restarts I've seen in quite some time. Condit didn't get a good jump on the field, allowing Jerry Young to pull to the inside and Greg Pfeifer Jr. to the outside as they came off turn two three-wide for the top spot! Young would motor his machine by both cars and began to pull away from the field as Condit and Pfeifer Jr battled it out behind him. A caution flag erased Young's lead with just a handful of laps remaining. Another caution waved after the field took the white flag, setting up a single file restart for the finish. Bryan Hernandez would be on Young's rear bumper and ducked low to pull even with Young, but Young powered back by as the white flag waved. Hernandez tried to power his car up on the cushion on the final set of turns, but slipped high into the crumbs to allow Pfeifer Jr to get by. Jimmy Davis and Albert Wytaske were side by side under Hernandex as the three cars exited turn four, setting up a three-wide finish at the stripe. Pfeifer Jr was second while Davis was awarded third, Albert Wytaske finished just ahead of Hernandez for fourth and fifth respectively.
Forty laps of ground shaking USMTS action was up next as the field was set for night's finale. As it has been on several occasions so far this week, the front row would consist of Jon Tesch and Jason Hughes. These two started off the current seven-day swing swapping wins at Oskaloosa and Marshalltown, and Friday night's action would be much of the same. Hughes got the jump early on, powering his machine to the outside to set the pace. An early caution bunched the field up and Tesch would decide to give the outside a try as well. The move paid off as Tesch quickly found himself in Hughes' tire tracks, but another caution halted his momentum before he could attempt to make a pass. By this time, Tim Donlinger had made his way from fifteenth to eighth and still charging his way forward. After a few cautions, Steve Wetstein's car would get stronger as he joined the front two cars for the lead. Wetstein powered his way to second on lap twenty-three, but Tesch again put his car on the cushion and snared the second spot back. While Tesch was within striking distance, he was unable to any moves as Hughes took home his eighth win on the USMTS tour this season. Tesch would finish second, Wetstein third, Donlinger advanced a couple more spots to take fourth, and Dereck Ramirez completed the top five. Thursday night's feature winner Zach VanderBeek was sixth.
The racing action was very good tonight. The track was a little slimy to start with, prompting track officials to bring a grader out and skim the top of the track off. This turned out to be a great move as it provided plenty of side by side action throughout the night. A great crowd was on hand as well, as evident by the 50/50 raffle drawing. $783 went to the winning number, and the gentleman who won donated an undisclosed amount back to the charity that raised the money.
The USMTS moves to the Deer Creek Speedway Saturday before finishing the holiday weekend in Kasson (MN) and Fountain City (WIS). If you get the chance, be sure to check out a USMTS show when they come to a track near you.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Brandon Vogt took the lead early in the junior hornet race, but Michael Wytaske had other ideas as he snagged the top spot away coming to the white flag as Vogt's momentum was slowed temporarily by a lapped car. In the senior hornets, Mike Bowers looked to continue his dominating season as he jumped out front for the ten lap event. Bowers has won every feature event thus far at Chateau Raceway, but his luck would run out tonight as Gary Stahl maneuvered his car to the inside of Bowers as the two exited turn four coming to the white flag. The two swapped racing lanes on the next set of corners and Stahl won the drag race to the checkers for his first win of the season.
A good field of twenty Wissota pure stocks were the next feature to hit the track. Kevin Vogt would take command early on as he got the jump on the field from the pole. A caution flag waved on lap eight, slowing the pace and bunching the cars back up. This restart was exactly what Jason Newkirk needed as he powered his machine to the outside and got by Vogt. Vogt would have an opportunity to do the same maneuver on the next lap as the yellow flag waved again, but Newkirk would have none of it as he cruised home with the win. Vogt finished second, Brady Krohnberg was third, Stacy Krohnberg fourth, and point leader Brandon Shaner rounded out the top five.
The Wissota midwest modifieds provided one of the most exciting finishes of the night as fourteen cars battled it out. Eric Condit paced the field early on from the pole, but a quick caution flag would set up one of the most exciting restarts I've seen in quite some time. Condit didn't get a good jump on the field, allowing Jerry Young to pull to the inside and Greg Pfeifer Jr. to the outside as they came off turn two three-wide for the top spot! Young would motor his machine by both cars and began to pull away from the field as Condit and Pfeifer Jr battled it out behind him. A caution flag erased Young's lead with just a handful of laps remaining. Another caution waved after the field took the white flag, setting up a single file restart for the finish. Bryan Hernandez would be on Young's rear bumper and ducked low to pull even with Young, but Young powered back by as the white flag waved. Hernandez tried to power his car up on the cushion on the final set of turns, but slipped high into the crumbs to allow Pfeifer Jr to get by. Jimmy Davis and Albert Wytaske were side by side under Hernandex as the three cars exited turn four, setting up a three-wide finish at the stripe. Pfeifer Jr was second while Davis was awarded third, Albert Wytaske finished just ahead of Hernandez for fourth and fifth respectively.
Forty laps of ground shaking USMTS action was up next as the field was set for night's finale. As it has been on several occasions so far this week, the front row would consist of Jon Tesch and Jason Hughes. These two started off the current seven-day swing swapping wins at Oskaloosa and Marshalltown, and Friday night's action would be much of the same. Hughes got the jump early on, powering his machine to the outside to set the pace. An early caution bunched the field up and Tesch would decide to give the outside a try as well. The move paid off as Tesch quickly found himself in Hughes' tire tracks, but another caution halted his momentum before he could attempt to make a pass. By this time, Tim Donlinger had made his way from fifteenth to eighth and still charging his way forward. After a few cautions, Steve Wetstein's car would get stronger as he joined the front two cars for the lead. Wetstein powered his way to second on lap twenty-three, but Tesch again put his car on the cushion and snared the second spot back. While Tesch was within striking distance, he was unable to any moves as Hughes took home his eighth win on the USMTS tour this season. Tesch would finish second, Wetstein third, Donlinger advanced a couple more spots to take fourth, and Dereck Ramirez completed the top five. Thursday night's feature winner Zach VanderBeek was sixth.
The racing action was very good tonight. The track was a little slimy to start with, prompting track officials to bring a grader out and skim the top of the track off. This turned out to be a great move as it provided plenty of side by side action throughout the night. A great crowd was on hand as well, as evident by the 50/50 raffle drawing. $783 went to the winning number, and the gentleman who won donated an undisclosed amount back to the charity that raised the money.
The USMTS moves to the Deer Creek Speedway Saturday before finishing the holiday weekend in Kasson (MN) and Fountain City (WIS). If you get the chance, be sure to check out a USMTS show when they come to a track near you.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
VanderBeek Captures Cresco Checkers
The USMTS series made their first visit of the year to the Cresco Speedway on Thursday, May 21st. Thirty-four cars were in attendance and ready to try their luck at the 3/8 mile high banked track. Also on the card would be USRA hobby stocks, USRA stock cars, and USRA bmods.
The racing program was moved along in swift fashion as a few sprinkles fell from the skies off and on throughout the night. The first feature of the night would be the bmods. Only ten cars were on hand, but the top spot was far from a done deal as Brian Schrage jumped out to the early lead from his third row start. Matt Jones ventured his way to the outside of Schrage to snare the lead away. Curtis Engen followed the top two cars and quickly made it a three car battle. Jones opened up a more comfortable lead when Engen pulled to the inside of Schrage for second, but Schrage prevailed at the line. Jimmy Broszeit took home fourth and Andy Kelly rounded out the top five.
Nineteen USRA hobby stocks made their way to the track for their feature event. Troy Hovey took the lead on lap two and appeared to have things well in hand until yellow flags slowed things down. Unfortunately his luck would run out as he pulled to the inside of the track just before a restart, ending his night. This handed the lead over to Steve Holthaus, but Holthaus would find himself under fire from Chris Hovden. Hovden motored his car to the outside of the track and made the pass for the lead. Holthaus would also suffer some bad luck as he had a flat tire on the last lap. Hovden went on to the win. A #6 car was second, Brandon Hare came home third, Scott Spilde was fourth, and Kyle Anderson rounded out the top five. I apologize for not knowing the #6 car. The announcer was a little difficult to understand at times.
Kevin Donlan grabbed the lead at the drop of the green flag in the USRA stock car feature while Brian Gjere was glued to his rear bumper. Gjere made several runs going into the corners, but nothing worked as Donlan continued to set the pace. Kurt Krauskopf made his way to the third spot as he tried to reel in the front two cars, but nobody had enough to get by Donlan as he led every lap on his way to victory lane. Gjere came home second, Krauskopf third, Jake Ludeking was fourth, and Lyn Panos rounded out the top five. Perenial contender Tom Schmitt finished a distant sixth.
Thirty-five laps would be the distance for the USMTS feature to cap off the night. That distance proved to be about four laps longer then Steve Wetstein wanted. Westein took command of the race from the pole and jumped out to a sizeable lead. A few car lengths back, Zach VanderBeek was charging his way and motored to the outside to try to get by Wetstein. The bottom groove was the place to be, however, as VanderBeek would settle in behind the leader. On a midrace caution, Tim Donlinger got by VanderBeek, and he too would venture to the outside to try his luck at getting by Wetstein. His attempt also failed as VanderBeek got back by on the low groove and set his sights on the leader once again. The patience paid off as Wetstein pushed up the track in turn four that allowed VanderBeek to scoot past underneath with four laps to go. Wetstein never recovered as he settled for a disappointing second place finish. Tim Donlinger came home third while local drivers Ron Konkel and Dan Bohr rounded out the top five. Marshalltown feature winner Jon Tesch finished sixth while Oskaloosa winner Jason Hughes suffered problems early in the race and dropped out.
A few notes from tonight's action: Tonight was the "season opener" for the Cresco Speedway. Weather forced the cancellation last Sunday night. The track had a few bumps, but overall I thought it held up pretty nicely. NASCAR driver Kenny Schrader was in attendance tonight for his final modified race of the week(end). He started in the sixth spot, but drifted back to finish 13th. Multi-time series champion Kelly Shryock struggled all night as he finished towards the back of his heat race and advanced through a bmain. His winless streak is now up to 33 races. In the hobby stock race, Chris Hovden added another "season opener" win as he also claimed opening wins at Highway 3 Raceway in Allison, Echo Valley Speedway in West Union, Upper Iowa Speedway in Decorah, and at the Fayette County Speedway in West Union. Hovden has always been a tough competitor wherever he goes, so this is no shock to hear.
A good crowd was on hand for the midweek action as the track will not be racing on it's normal night on Sunday. The Cresco Speedway will have their next night of racing on May 31 while the USMTS will continue driving north as they head to the Chateau Raceway in Lansing, Minnesota Friday night. Weather permitting, check back Friday night for coverage of the event.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
The racing program was moved along in swift fashion as a few sprinkles fell from the skies off and on throughout the night. The first feature of the night would be the bmods. Only ten cars were on hand, but the top spot was far from a done deal as Brian Schrage jumped out to the early lead from his third row start. Matt Jones ventured his way to the outside of Schrage to snare the lead away. Curtis Engen followed the top two cars and quickly made it a three car battle. Jones opened up a more comfortable lead when Engen pulled to the inside of Schrage for second, but Schrage prevailed at the line. Jimmy Broszeit took home fourth and Andy Kelly rounded out the top five.
Nineteen USRA hobby stocks made their way to the track for their feature event. Troy Hovey took the lead on lap two and appeared to have things well in hand until yellow flags slowed things down. Unfortunately his luck would run out as he pulled to the inside of the track just before a restart, ending his night. This handed the lead over to Steve Holthaus, but Holthaus would find himself under fire from Chris Hovden. Hovden motored his car to the outside of the track and made the pass for the lead. Holthaus would also suffer some bad luck as he had a flat tire on the last lap. Hovden went on to the win. A #6 car was second, Brandon Hare came home third, Scott Spilde was fourth, and Kyle Anderson rounded out the top five. I apologize for not knowing the #6 car. The announcer was a little difficult to understand at times.
Kevin Donlan grabbed the lead at the drop of the green flag in the USRA stock car feature while Brian Gjere was glued to his rear bumper. Gjere made several runs going into the corners, but nothing worked as Donlan continued to set the pace. Kurt Krauskopf made his way to the third spot as he tried to reel in the front two cars, but nobody had enough to get by Donlan as he led every lap on his way to victory lane. Gjere came home second, Krauskopf third, Jake Ludeking was fourth, and Lyn Panos rounded out the top five. Perenial contender Tom Schmitt finished a distant sixth.
Thirty-five laps would be the distance for the USMTS feature to cap off the night. That distance proved to be about four laps longer then Steve Wetstein wanted. Westein took command of the race from the pole and jumped out to a sizeable lead. A few car lengths back, Zach VanderBeek was charging his way and motored to the outside to try to get by Wetstein. The bottom groove was the place to be, however, as VanderBeek would settle in behind the leader. On a midrace caution, Tim Donlinger got by VanderBeek, and he too would venture to the outside to try his luck at getting by Wetstein. His attempt also failed as VanderBeek got back by on the low groove and set his sights on the leader once again. The patience paid off as Wetstein pushed up the track in turn four that allowed VanderBeek to scoot past underneath with four laps to go. Wetstein never recovered as he settled for a disappointing second place finish. Tim Donlinger came home third while local drivers Ron Konkel and Dan Bohr rounded out the top five. Marshalltown feature winner Jon Tesch finished sixth while Oskaloosa winner Jason Hughes suffered problems early in the race and dropped out.
A few notes from tonight's action: Tonight was the "season opener" for the Cresco Speedway. Weather forced the cancellation last Sunday night. The track had a few bumps, but overall I thought it held up pretty nicely. NASCAR driver Kenny Schrader was in attendance tonight for his final modified race of the week(end). He started in the sixth spot, but drifted back to finish 13th. Multi-time series champion Kelly Shryock struggled all night as he finished towards the back of his heat race and advanced through a bmain. His winless streak is now up to 33 races. In the hobby stock race, Chris Hovden added another "season opener" win as he also claimed opening wins at Highway 3 Raceway in Allison, Echo Valley Speedway in West Union, Upper Iowa Speedway in Decorah, and at the Fayette County Speedway in West Union. Hovden has always been a tough competitor wherever he goes, so this is no shock to hear.
A good crowd was on hand for the midweek action as the track will not be racing on it's normal night on Sunday. The Cresco Speedway will have their next night of racing on May 31 while the USMTS will continue driving north as they head to the Chateau Raceway in Lansing, Minnesota Friday night. Weather permitting, check back Friday night for coverage of the event.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Tesch Finds Redemption With Marshalltown Win
Jon Tesch led all but the final three circuits of the feature event held at Oskaloosa on Tuesday night, but he made up for that as he led all forty laps of tonight's main event at the Marshalltown Speedway. Tesch would once again find himself in a heated battle with Jason Hughes, the driver who stole the feature win last night.
Earlier in the night the hobby stocks had their feature race of the night. A solid field of nineteen cars started the race as Todd Reitzler motored out to the early lead and never looked back. While the race saw several restarts, nobody seriously challenged Reitzler as he took home the top prize. Kenny Hansen made some good moves late in the race to finish second after starting tenth. Oskaloosa feature winner Nathan Wood finished third, Chad Koch battled his way up to fourth from his fifteenth starting spot, and Dustin Elliott rounded out the top five. The hobby stocks saw the white flag three times as twice the caution flag waved afterwards. The third restart saw both the green and white together to decrease the chances of another yellow coming out.
Thirty-four bmods checked into the pits, but only the top twenty-four started the feature. Kevin Sather had the luck of the draw on his side as he drew the outside front row and immediately jumped out front at the drop of the green flag. A caution quickly came out on the second circuit, and by that time Luke Wanninger had moved up four spots to fifth. Kyle Brown stayed within striking distance with the leader most of the race, but would not have enough to seriously challenge Sather. Sather's win kept his undefeated streak alive at the track. Brown was second, Wanninger finished third, Scott Davis was fourth, and AJ Johnson maneuvered through the field to finish fifth after starting 20th. Fellow tenth row starter Neil Follett followed him across the line to finish sixth.
Dave Atcher made his first appearance at the Marshalltown Speedway a memorable one as he captured the stock car feature win. Atcher jumped out front from his front row starting spot, but Tom Schmitt was making his way to the front as he found himself in second by lap five. Schmitt was slowly cutting the lead down and found himself within striking distance with just a few laps to go. He tried to go low on the final lap, but Atcher's car was too strong on the top side and took home the checkers. Curt Hook finished with a solid third place finish, Mike VanGenderen was fourth, and Clay Deppe rounded out the top five.
Forty laps of horsepower capped off the night as the USMTS modified feature made their way to the track. Kelly Shryock and Jon Tesch led the field to the green flag. Before the cars made it to turn one, a group of cars got tangled up on the front stretch that resulted in five cars dropping out of the race. Tesch would grab the lead on the restart while Shryock went a little too high as the rear of the car dropped off the banking in turn two. He would regain control of the car and keep going, but he lost about four or five spots in the process. Zach VanderBeek advanced into the show by winning a bmain event and was on the move as he found himself up to third in just eight laps. Jon Tesch appeared to be slowly distancing himself from the field until he caught lapped traffic. That opened the door for Oskaloosa winner Jason Hughes to cut into the lead and eventually in the tire tracks of Tesch. Tesch would not be denied this time though as he held off Hughes at the finish. VanderBeek finished third, hometown driver Ryan Gustin finished fourth, and Corey Dripps completed the top five. Shyrock recovered from his early mishap and made it back to fourth before losing two spots on the final lap to finish sixth.
The inaugural USMTS visit to Marshalltown was a successful one. The support classes had a good mixture of track regulars along with some "outside" guys traveling. The event also gave the fans a chance to see hometown drivers Brett Ladehoff, Mike O'Lear, Jimmy Gustin, Ryan Gustin, and Richie Gustin battled it out some of the best drivers in the country. And for the Gustin fans in particular, it was a rare chance to see all three in action in a modified at the same track.
The USMTS travels north to Cresco Thursday night while the Marshalltown Speedway will host it's weekly racing again on Friday night. With the Memorial Day weekend soon approaching, be sure to get out and check out the action this weekend.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Earlier in the night the hobby stocks had their feature race of the night. A solid field of nineteen cars started the race as Todd Reitzler motored out to the early lead and never looked back. While the race saw several restarts, nobody seriously challenged Reitzler as he took home the top prize. Kenny Hansen made some good moves late in the race to finish second after starting tenth. Oskaloosa feature winner Nathan Wood finished third, Chad Koch battled his way up to fourth from his fifteenth starting spot, and Dustin Elliott rounded out the top five. The hobby stocks saw the white flag three times as twice the caution flag waved afterwards. The third restart saw both the green and white together to decrease the chances of another yellow coming out.
Thirty-four bmods checked into the pits, but only the top twenty-four started the feature. Kevin Sather had the luck of the draw on his side as he drew the outside front row and immediately jumped out front at the drop of the green flag. A caution quickly came out on the second circuit, and by that time Luke Wanninger had moved up four spots to fifth. Kyle Brown stayed within striking distance with the leader most of the race, but would not have enough to seriously challenge Sather. Sather's win kept his undefeated streak alive at the track. Brown was second, Wanninger finished third, Scott Davis was fourth, and AJ Johnson maneuvered through the field to finish fifth after starting 20th. Fellow tenth row starter Neil Follett followed him across the line to finish sixth.
Dave Atcher made his first appearance at the Marshalltown Speedway a memorable one as he captured the stock car feature win. Atcher jumped out front from his front row starting spot, but Tom Schmitt was making his way to the front as he found himself in second by lap five. Schmitt was slowly cutting the lead down and found himself within striking distance with just a few laps to go. He tried to go low on the final lap, but Atcher's car was too strong on the top side and took home the checkers. Curt Hook finished with a solid third place finish, Mike VanGenderen was fourth, and Clay Deppe rounded out the top five.
Forty laps of horsepower capped off the night as the USMTS modified feature made their way to the track. Kelly Shryock and Jon Tesch led the field to the green flag. Before the cars made it to turn one, a group of cars got tangled up on the front stretch that resulted in five cars dropping out of the race. Tesch would grab the lead on the restart while Shryock went a little too high as the rear of the car dropped off the banking in turn two. He would regain control of the car and keep going, but he lost about four or five spots in the process. Zach VanderBeek advanced into the show by winning a bmain event and was on the move as he found himself up to third in just eight laps. Jon Tesch appeared to be slowly distancing himself from the field until he caught lapped traffic. That opened the door for Oskaloosa winner Jason Hughes to cut into the lead and eventually in the tire tracks of Tesch. Tesch would not be denied this time though as he held off Hughes at the finish. VanderBeek finished third, hometown driver Ryan Gustin finished fourth, and Corey Dripps completed the top five. Shyrock recovered from his early mishap and made it back to fourth before losing two spots on the final lap to finish sixth.
The inaugural USMTS visit to Marshalltown was a successful one. The support classes had a good mixture of track regulars along with some "outside" guys traveling. The event also gave the fans a chance to see hometown drivers Brett Ladehoff, Mike O'Lear, Jimmy Gustin, Ryan Gustin, and Richie Gustin battled it out some of the best drivers in the country. And for the Gustin fans in particular, it was a rare chance to see all three in action in a modified at the same track.
The USMTS travels north to Cresco Thursday night while the Marshalltown Speedway will host it's weekly racing again on Friday night. With the Memorial Day weekend soon approaching, be sure to get out and check out the action this weekend.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Wood Doubles Up, Hughes Continues His Winning Ways
A beautiful Tuesday evening turned into a good night of racing at the Southern Iowa Speedway in Oskaloosa on May 19. The road warriors of the United States Modified Touring Series made their first SIS stop to start a string of seven straight races in the upper Midwest. While Oskaloosa usually runs their weekly show on Wednesdays, Tuesday night's show would be a weekly points night as promoter Todd Staley will allow guys to venture north to Marshalltown on Wednesday night for a full night of racing at that quarter-mile speedplant. Tonight's USMTS race also provided a "PR.com gathering" as three of us were in attendance tonight (Jeff, Dick and Joyce, and myself).
A good group of cars were on hand as there were 41 USMTS modifieds, 20 USRA hobby stocks, 20 USRA bmods, but only 13 USRA stock cars. The bmods would be the first feature run and it would be Tyler Groenendyk jumping out to the early lead. His father Leroy settled into the runner up spot after starting on the pole while the battle was for fifth early on as three cars battled side by side. The field spread out as the laps clicked off and Tyler Groenendyk took home his first career win by a full straight away over his father Leroy. Drew Lawson came home third, Cory Brown was fourth, and Andrew Schroeder rounded out the top five. The fifteen lap race went flag to flag, although I'm not sure anybody else had anything to compete with the victor.
Up next would be the USRA stock car event. Nathan Wood darted out front from the pole. Kyle Harwood took the lead away on the second circuit, but Wood would recover at the halfway point of the race as he dove to the inside of the track in turn three to regain the lead. Right behind him, Brian Mitrisin made the same move on the following lap to move his way up to second. A little further back, last week's feature winner Zach VanderBeek was running the low line the entire race and made his way up to the third position after starting towards the rear of the field. Those two competitors followed Wood across the line while Matt Greiner was fourth and Kyle Harwood slipped back to fifth.
One win apparently wasn't enough for Nathan Wood tonight. He started on the outside of the front row in the USRA hobby stocks and quickly took command of the race. He found himself increasing his lead lap by lap while the battle for second heated up among Chris Hovden, Tony Tenity, and Bobby Greene. Greene would prevail in this group, but he had nothing for the leader as Wood sailed to his second win of the night. Hovden, making the long pull down from Cresco, finished third while Kris Walker and Dale Porter rounded out the top five. Tenity slipped back to seventh.
Twenty-seven USMTS modifieds took to the track next for their thirty lap finale. NASCAR stars Kenny Schrader and Kenny Wallace were both on hand for tonight's action. Both drivers were scheduled to compete in the second heat race, but Wallace's car would not fire. Schrader would make the call, but found himself in a bmain as well.
Jon Tesch took command of the race from the drop of the green flag from the front row. While Tesch was rim-riding on the top side, Jason Hughes was using the bottom side of the track and slowing reeling in the race leader. A couple early cautions bunched the field up, giving Hughes and company another shot at Tesch. Hughes would pull up on the inside of Tesch going in to turn three on lap ten, but was unable to make the pass. While those two were battling it out up front, Brad Pinkerton and Ryan Gustin were waging war with each other. Gustin would keep his momentum on the top side of the track to maintain a couple car lengths on Pinkerton every time they crossed the finish line. After encountering lapped traffic, Hughes began his quest for the race lead as he closed up on the back bumper. With just three laps to go, Tesch clipped the outside wall in turn one, opening the door for Hughes to slip by on the bottom. The contact with the wall damaged his rear spoiler, which meant he lost downforce on the rear tires that allowed Hughes to pull away for the win at the end. Tesch hung on for second, Ryan Gustin finished third, Brad Pinkerton fourth, and Zach VanderBeek rounded out the top five. A couple other drivers had solid runs as Al Hejna started 14th and finished 6th while Jake Neal took a provisional (started 24th) and moved up ten spots to 14th. Kenny Schrader finished 13th and Kenny Wallace was 21st.
Night one is in the books as the USMTS heads north to the Marshalltown Speedway on Wednesday for their initial visit to the high banked quarter mile facility. I believe hot laps get under way at 6:15 with racing scheduled to start at 7:00. The USMTS was scheduled to race in Marshalltown last year but fell victim to weather. If you're in the area, I suggest you make it out to the track early as this is one show I definitely don't want to miss!
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
A good group of cars were on hand as there were 41 USMTS modifieds, 20 USRA hobby stocks, 20 USRA bmods, but only 13 USRA stock cars. The bmods would be the first feature run and it would be Tyler Groenendyk jumping out to the early lead. His father Leroy settled into the runner up spot after starting on the pole while the battle was for fifth early on as three cars battled side by side. The field spread out as the laps clicked off and Tyler Groenendyk took home his first career win by a full straight away over his father Leroy. Drew Lawson came home third, Cory Brown was fourth, and Andrew Schroeder rounded out the top five. The fifteen lap race went flag to flag, although I'm not sure anybody else had anything to compete with the victor.
Up next would be the USRA stock car event. Nathan Wood darted out front from the pole. Kyle Harwood took the lead away on the second circuit, but Wood would recover at the halfway point of the race as he dove to the inside of the track in turn three to regain the lead. Right behind him, Brian Mitrisin made the same move on the following lap to move his way up to second. A little further back, last week's feature winner Zach VanderBeek was running the low line the entire race and made his way up to the third position after starting towards the rear of the field. Those two competitors followed Wood across the line while Matt Greiner was fourth and Kyle Harwood slipped back to fifth.
One win apparently wasn't enough for Nathan Wood tonight. He started on the outside of the front row in the USRA hobby stocks and quickly took command of the race. He found himself increasing his lead lap by lap while the battle for second heated up among Chris Hovden, Tony Tenity, and Bobby Greene. Greene would prevail in this group, but he had nothing for the leader as Wood sailed to his second win of the night. Hovden, making the long pull down from Cresco, finished third while Kris Walker and Dale Porter rounded out the top five. Tenity slipped back to seventh.
Twenty-seven USMTS modifieds took to the track next for their thirty lap finale. NASCAR stars Kenny Schrader and Kenny Wallace were both on hand for tonight's action. Both drivers were scheduled to compete in the second heat race, but Wallace's car would not fire. Schrader would make the call, but found himself in a bmain as well.
Jon Tesch took command of the race from the drop of the green flag from the front row. While Tesch was rim-riding on the top side, Jason Hughes was using the bottom side of the track and slowing reeling in the race leader. A couple early cautions bunched the field up, giving Hughes and company another shot at Tesch. Hughes would pull up on the inside of Tesch going in to turn three on lap ten, but was unable to make the pass. While those two were battling it out up front, Brad Pinkerton and Ryan Gustin were waging war with each other. Gustin would keep his momentum on the top side of the track to maintain a couple car lengths on Pinkerton every time they crossed the finish line. After encountering lapped traffic, Hughes began his quest for the race lead as he closed up on the back bumper. With just three laps to go, Tesch clipped the outside wall in turn one, opening the door for Hughes to slip by on the bottom. The contact with the wall damaged his rear spoiler, which meant he lost downforce on the rear tires that allowed Hughes to pull away for the win at the end. Tesch hung on for second, Ryan Gustin finished third, Brad Pinkerton fourth, and Zach VanderBeek rounded out the top five. A couple other drivers had solid runs as Al Hejna started 14th and finished 6th while Jake Neal took a provisional (started 24th) and moved up ten spots to 14th. Kenny Schrader finished 13th and Kenny Wallace was 21st.
Night one is in the books as the USMTS heads north to the Marshalltown Speedway on Wednesday for their initial visit to the high banked quarter mile facility. I believe hot laps get under way at 6:15 with racing scheduled to start at 7:00. The USMTS was scheduled to race in Marshalltown last year but fell victim to weather. If you're in the area, I suggest you make it out to the track early as this is one show I definitely don't want to miss!
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Exciting Finishes at Mason City!
Another great night of racing was on the card at the I-35 Speedway in Mason City for Sunday, May 17. Overcast skies with a few sprinkles mixed in made things a little on the cool side for the fans, but it also made for some good action on the track.
Novice hornets started off the feature events as eight cars were scheduled to battle it out on the big half mile. Blake Cole appeare to have the win under control until his car bobbled in on the final corner of the race, allowing Ken Winkowitsch to slip past on the bottom side to snare the checkers away.
The professional hornets started six cars in their main event that saw Patrick Barrett jump out to the early lead. Jesse Harang made a race out of it as the two made contact in turn four that sent Barrett's car fish-tailing. Barrett straightened his car out, but lost two spots in the process. Harang took home the hardware.
Seventeen hobby stocks graced the track next for their twelve lap finale. Scott Dobel used his pole to his advantage as he grabbed the lead on the start. That would be short-lived though as Jeremy Solberg grabbed the top spot on the next lap. Chad Gentz made it three lead changes in three laps as he snared the lead away from Solberg on the third circuit, but behind him Mick Meyers and Cory Gansen were making a strong run towards the front. Gentz would hold the lead until the final lap when lapped traffic played a vital role in the outcome of the finish. Gentz slid high to avoid the lapped car while Meyers went low, and it would be Meyers prevailing at the line by a fender with the lapped car in between! Gansen came home third, Stac Schroeder was fourth, and Heath Tulp rounded out the top five.
The 360 modifieds (bmods) were up next as twenty-one cars were set to take the green flag. John Warrington grabbed the command of the race early on from his outside front row starting spot as both Shane Swanson and Adam Ackerman were manuevering their way to the front after starting midpack. Swanson would drive his car to the outside of Warrington's machine to make what would be the winning pass. Warrington maintained his second spot, one of his best career finishes I'm sure. Dan Tenold, Nate Chodur, and Dustin Brown completed the top five.
A great field of ninteen IMCA stock cars were on hand as the "Class Too Tough To Tame" lived up to his nickname. Aaron Haggerty used his front row starting spot to take command early on. Luckily for him race cars don't have mirrors as he would have seen a dogfight brewing behind him for the next several positions. Ryan Hiscocks, Joe Willier, Bert McDaniel, and Kevin Opheim were all trying to track down Haggerty. Hiscocks was the first to mount a run on the outside of Haggerty, but the top side was not the place to be as Haggerty maintained his momentum to keep the top spot. Kevin Opheim moved his car to the low groove to get past Hiscocks for second and set his sights on the leader. His move would not stick either and Bert McDaniel got around him as he tried to chase down Haggerty. With just a few laps remaining, contact between Opheim and McDaniel resulted in McDaniel saving his car from spinning and thus giving ground to the leader. Haggerty went on to take home the win while Kevin Opheim snared the second spot. Jared Dirks narrowly edged out Bert McDaniel at the line for third and fourth, respectively, as Hiscocks finished fifth.
Just when you think you've seen it all, something else comes along that makes you think a little harder. Fourteen IMCA modifieds checked into the back gate and were set for their twenty lap finale. Rich Lewerke jumped out front early and began to slowly distance himself from the rest of the pack. Nate Caruth was making his move to the front as he found himself up to fourth on lap three after starting tenth. The field began to spread themselves out, but Terrance Prochaska was keeping pace with Lewerke and Caruth made his way to third. A caution flag waved after three cars got tangled up in turn four, setting up what would be an interesting restart. The lights were flashing indicating the race was about to be restarted, but the front two cars apparently thought the corner worker was signaling one more lap as they came to the frontstretch. Both Lewerke and Prochaska were slow, but third place car Caruth bolted to the outside at the drop of the green flag to take the lead into turn one. Lewerke was able to minimize the damage as he kept the second spot, but Prochaska wasn't so lucky as he lost about four positions if not more. Lewerke began to reel Caruth back in and got to the back bumper before his driveshalf spit out going into turn one, ending another great run for him. Caruth went on to take the checkers as Curt Badker came home second. TJ Stalker finished third, Rob Rose was fourth, and Terrance Prochaska got back up to fifth.
What a way to cap the night off. With the sprinkles here and there throughout the night, the program was run very efficiently as the races were done by 8:30. The track appeared to be in a little better shape then last week, but dry weather would definitely help.
OFFICIAL RESULTS
Hobby Stocks
1. 6 Mick Meyers
2. 15 Chad Gentz
3. 6 Cory Gansen
4. 51 Stac Schroeder
5. 50 Heath Tulp
6. 20 Jeremy Solberg
7. 2 Wayne Landheer
8. 15J Travis Johnson
9. 83 Scott Dobel
10. 71 Terry Litwiler
11. 82x Kari George
12. 65 Gary Fransiscus
13. 18z Zac Smith
14. 37G Alex George
15. 82 Coby Bangusser
16. 32 Robert Black
17. 17 Matt Stading
360 modifieds (bmods)
1. 55 Shane Swanson
2. 64 John Warrington
3. 86 Dan Tenold
4. 88 Nate Chodur
5. 65D Dustin Brown
6. 2 Nick West
7. 5 Adam Ackerman
8. 7I Steve Inman
9. 81 Jared Boumeester
10. 32z Alex Zwanziger
11. 69 Kyle Germundson
12. 33 Zach Patterson
13. 90 George Nordman
14. 21R Tony Ranes
15. 4L Mike Ludemann
16. 3w Shawn Wilson
17. 04 Tim Marzen
18. 18J Mike Jaeger
19. 49 Nate Whitehurst
20. 88K Tracy Kleckner
21. 21H Matt Hoeft
IMCA Stock Cars
1. 62 Aaron Haggerty
2. 44K Kevin Opheim
3. 51 Jared Dirks
4. 81 Bert McDaniel
5. 7III Ryan Hiscocks
6. 37 Merlyn Hegland
7. 7I Andrew Inman
8. 21T Travis Prochaska
9. 21 Travis Hoeft
10. 37x Mike Jergens
11. 53 Wade Nall
12. K20 Kevin Paca
13. 7J John Campbell
14. 96 Joe Willier
15. 15 Brad Broers
16. 59 Larry Portis
17. 38 Cody Schmit
18. 32JR Laura Curry
19. 77 Kevin Hoeft
IMCA Modifieds
1. 7c Nate Caruth
2. 58 Curt Badker
3. 1 T.J. Stalker
4. 123 Rob Rose
5. 20 Terrance Prochaska
6. 25$ Shane Monson
7. 23w Robert Whalen
8. 111 Ty Mennenga
9. 97 Rich Lewerke
10. 45 Levi Nielsen
11. 18 Jake Durbin
12. 10 Jeremy Mills
13. 11x Alex Yohn
14. 47 Christian Wagler
Novice hornets started off the feature events as eight cars were scheduled to battle it out on the big half mile. Blake Cole appeare to have the win under control until his car bobbled in on the final corner of the race, allowing Ken Winkowitsch to slip past on the bottom side to snare the checkers away.
The professional hornets started six cars in their main event that saw Patrick Barrett jump out to the early lead. Jesse Harang made a race out of it as the two made contact in turn four that sent Barrett's car fish-tailing. Barrett straightened his car out, but lost two spots in the process. Harang took home the hardware.
Seventeen hobby stocks graced the track next for their twelve lap finale. Scott Dobel used his pole to his advantage as he grabbed the lead on the start. That would be short-lived though as Jeremy Solberg grabbed the top spot on the next lap. Chad Gentz made it three lead changes in three laps as he snared the lead away from Solberg on the third circuit, but behind him Mick Meyers and Cory Gansen were making a strong run towards the front. Gentz would hold the lead until the final lap when lapped traffic played a vital role in the outcome of the finish. Gentz slid high to avoid the lapped car while Meyers went low, and it would be Meyers prevailing at the line by a fender with the lapped car in between! Gansen came home third, Stac Schroeder was fourth, and Heath Tulp rounded out the top five.
The 360 modifieds (bmods) were up next as twenty-one cars were set to take the green flag. John Warrington grabbed the command of the race early on from his outside front row starting spot as both Shane Swanson and Adam Ackerman were manuevering their way to the front after starting midpack. Swanson would drive his car to the outside of Warrington's machine to make what would be the winning pass. Warrington maintained his second spot, one of his best career finishes I'm sure. Dan Tenold, Nate Chodur, and Dustin Brown completed the top five.
A great field of ninteen IMCA stock cars were on hand as the "Class Too Tough To Tame" lived up to his nickname. Aaron Haggerty used his front row starting spot to take command early on. Luckily for him race cars don't have mirrors as he would have seen a dogfight brewing behind him for the next several positions. Ryan Hiscocks, Joe Willier, Bert McDaniel, and Kevin Opheim were all trying to track down Haggerty. Hiscocks was the first to mount a run on the outside of Haggerty, but the top side was not the place to be as Haggerty maintained his momentum to keep the top spot. Kevin Opheim moved his car to the low groove to get past Hiscocks for second and set his sights on the leader. His move would not stick either and Bert McDaniel got around him as he tried to chase down Haggerty. With just a few laps remaining, contact between Opheim and McDaniel resulted in McDaniel saving his car from spinning and thus giving ground to the leader. Haggerty went on to take home the win while Kevin Opheim snared the second spot. Jared Dirks narrowly edged out Bert McDaniel at the line for third and fourth, respectively, as Hiscocks finished fifth.
Just when you think you've seen it all, something else comes along that makes you think a little harder. Fourteen IMCA modifieds checked into the back gate and were set for their twenty lap finale. Rich Lewerke jumped out front early and began to slowly distance himself from the rest of the pack. Nate Caruth was making his move to the front as he found himself up to fourth on lap three after starting tenth. The field began to spread themselves out, but Terrance Prochaska was keeping pace with Lewerke and Caruth made his way to third. A caution flag waved after three cars got tangled up in turn four, setting up what would be an interesting restart. The lights were flashing indicating the race was about to be restarted, but the front two cars apparently thought the corner worker was signaling one more lap as they came to the frontstretch. Both Lewerke and Prochaska were slow, but third place car Caruth bolted to the outside at the drop of the green flag to take the lead into turn one. Lewerke was able to minimize the damage as he kept the second spot, but Prochaska wasn't so lucky as he lost about four positions if not more. Lewerke began to reel Caruth back in and got to the back bumper before his driveshalf spit out going into turn one, ending another great run for him. Caruth went on to take the checkers as Curt Badker came home second. TJ Stalker finished third, Rob Rose was fourth, and Terrance Prochaska got back up to fifth.
What a way to cap the night off. With the sprinkles here and there throughout the night, the program was run very efficiently as the races were done by 8:30. The track appeared to be in a little better shape then last week, but dry weather would definitely help.
OFFICIAL RESULTS
Hobby Stocks
1. 6 Mick Meyers
2. 15 Chad Gentz
3. 6 Cory Gansen
4. 51 Stac Schroeder
5. 50 Heath Tulp
6. 20 Jeremy Solberg
7. 2 Wayne Landheer
8. 15J Travis Johnson
9. 83 Scott Dobel
10. 71 Terry Litwiler
11. 82x Kari George
12. 65 Gary Fransiscus
13. 18z Zac Smith
14. 37G Alex George
15. 82 Coby Bangusser
16. 32 Robert Black
17. 17 Matt Stading
360 modifieds (bmods)
1. 55 Shane Swanson
2. 64 John Warrington
3. 86 Dan Tenold
4. 88 Nate Chodur
5. 65D Dustin Brown
6. 2 Nick West
7. 5 Adam Ackerman
8. 7I Steve Inman
9. 81 Jared Boumeester
10. 32z Alex Zwanziger
11. 69 Kyle Germundson
12. 33 Zach Patterson
13. 90 George Nordman
14. 21R Tony Ranes
15. 4L Mike Ludemann
16. 3w Shawn Wilson
17. 04 Tim Marzen
18. 18J Mike Jaeger
19. 49 Nate Whitehurst
20. 88K Tracy Kleckner
21. 21H Matt Hoeft
IMCA Stock Cars
1. 62 Aaron Haggerty
2. 44K Kevin Opheim
3. 51 Jared Dirks
4. 81 Bert McDaniel
5. 7III Ryan Hiscocks
6. 37 Merlyn Hegland
7. 7I Andrew Inman
8. 21T Travis Prochaska
9. 21 Travis Hoeft
10. 37x Mike Jergens
11. 53 Wade Nall
12. K20 Kevin Paca
13. 7J John Campbell
14. 96 Joe Willier
15. 15 Brad Broers
16. 59 Larry Portis
17. 38 Cody Schmit
18. 32JR Laura Curry
19. 77 Kevin Hoeft
IMCA Modifieds
1. 7c Nate Caruth
2. 58 Curt Badker
3. 1 T.J. Stalker
4. 123 Rob Rose
5. 20 Terrance Prochaska
6. 25$ Shane Monson
7. 23w Robert Whalen
8. 111 Ty Mennenga
9. 97 Rich Lewerke
10. 45 Levi Nielsen
11. 18 Jake Durbin
12. 10 Jeremy Mills
13. 11x Alex Yohn
14. 47 Christian Wagler
Double Features On the Card at Hamiton County Speedway
After visiting tracks in Nebraska and South Dakota, I ventured back closer to home and took in a night of double features at the Hamilton County Speedway in Webster City on Saturday, May 16. I knew chances were good that the show would get a bit long, but had no idea that bad luck would return once again with the lighting situation. Not once, but twice the lights went out again at the racetrack. I'm starting to think that maybe I shouldn't go to this track as both nights it has happened I have been in attendance.
Five makeup features were the first item of business on the night. The IMCA hobby stocks were up first as seventeen cars took the green flag. Ryan Caquelin would be the early race leader, but Kevin Schmauss was closing in on his rear bumper. At the half-way point of the race Brandon Ratcliff and Justin Ades were in a dogfight for the third spot, but Ratcliff's car would fade in the closing laps. Schmauss took the lead away from Caquelin with only two laps to go by using the outside groove. Justin Ades tried to get by Caquelin for second, but Caquelin edged him out at the line. TJ Mortenson came home fourth and Ratcliff rounded out the top five.
Next up would be the stock cars. A solid field of eighteen cars were lead early by Dave Hubbard from his outside front row starting spot. Reid Keller had other ideas though when he powered his car to the bottom side of turn four and muscled his way past for the lead. Keller would sail to the checkers followed by Mark Elliott, Jason Wagoner, Jason Minnehan, and Scott Bloemke.
Greg Simmons raced to the early lead in the IMCA sportmod feature. However, his luck would run out as the pole sitter went up in smoke down the front straight away and coasted to a stop. This handed the lead over to Austin Kaplan with Matt Lettow right behind. Lettow would take over the top spot midway through the race and begin to pull away from the field until a caution flag bunched them up again with just two laps to go. A three-wide battle ensued between Lettow, Brett Meyer, and Bryon Weyer for the lead as they came to the double checkered finish. Meyer would squeeze out the close victory just ahead of Lettow while Weyer settled for third. Rounding out the top five would be Austin Kaplan and Brandon Toftee.
J.J. Wise led the IMCA modifieds to the green flag for their makeup feature. Mark Elliott started shotgun on the field (13th), but would find himself in fourth after completing the first lap. Adam Larson would challenge Wise as he made the pass for the lead on lap three. Wise's car appear to get worse as several cars made their way past his Skyrocket machine. Once again, a caution with just two laps to go bunched the field up for a green/white/checkered finish. Scott Olson tried to get a run on Larson on the bottom side coming out of turn four, but Larson carried the momentum off the corner to take home the hardware. Olson settled for second, Nate Caruth came home third, Mike Bennett was fourth, and J.J. Wise finished a disappointing fifth.
Sixteen IMCA late models were set to do battle for their makeup event that saw pole-sitter Kelly Tapper take the early lead. His luck would run out on the second lap though as his car spun and came to a rest in turn one. That handed the reigns over to Ryan Griffith with Darrel DeFrance making his way to the front behind him. Todd Cooney's car was getting faster as the laps clicked off as he found himself getting by DeFrance and setting his sights on Griffith. The top two cars battled side by side for a couple laps before Cooney took the advantage and began to pull away to take the checkers. Jeff Aikey got by Ryan Griffith after yet another green/white/checkered restart for second and third, respectively. DeFrance was fourth and Al Johnson rounded out the top five.
After an intermission for a little track prep, the scheduled night's events were set to kick off. Things were going smoothly until some lights went out in turn four during the first heat of modifieds. There was enough lighting to finish that heat race, but track officials went to work to fix the problem and had things in working order a brief time later.
Only three IMCA sport compacts were on hand tonight. Justin Wacha was the dominant car throughout the heat race and the early part of the feature, but his car bobbled in turn one midway through the race and Gary Peiffer would take advantage as he took home the win. Wacha was second and Daniels Ayers was third.
Nineteen IMCA hobby stocks were up next for their feature as Blake Miller set the pace early on. That did not last long however as TJ Mortenson took it away on lap two. He appeared to have the win in the bag until his car came to a rest on the backstretch. This handed the lead over to Justin Ades, would went on to take the win. Miller settled for second, Kevin Schmauss was third, Craig Graham fourth, and Andy Jones rounded out the top five.
Jeff Deal took the lead early on in the stock car feature, but he would receive heavy pressure from outside front row starter Adam Silvey. Silvey went low to get by Deal on lap six for the race lead while Jason Wagoner was working his way up to the third spot. Wagoner's car was working extremely well tonight as he took the lead on the top side with two laps to go. Deal was second, Todd Foster third, Mark Elliott fourth, and Silvey finished fifth.
Twenty-two IMCA Sportmods took to the track next as Rodger Caquelin took the lead early on. A caution on lap five put Tyler Gross on the back bumper of Caquelin. Three laps later Gross dove to the bottom of the speedway to sneak past Caquelin for the top spot. Caquelin didn't give up, though, as he battled back and regained the top spot a lap later. Matt Northrup joined the top two cars to make it a four-way battle for the lead coming down to the finish. They were three-wide at the finish with Lettow edging out Gross for the win. Caquelin settled for third, Northrup was fourth, and Austin Kaplan rounded out the top five. Caquelin, however, would later be DQed according to official results. During this race, the track suffered another delay as once again the lights went out in turn four. Hopefully this will not continue to plague the track the rest of the season.
Jon Snyder used his pole starting spot to grab the lead early in the IMCA modified finale. Snyder opened up a sizable margin and would take home the easy win. Mike Bennett was second, Adam Larson third, Scott Olson fourth, and Brad Moriarty finished fifth.
The final event of the night would be the twenty-car IMCA late model feature. Jill George shot to the lead from the pole and had a couple car lengths on the rest of the field. Kelly Tapper made his way to second and closed in on the top spot, but contact between the two cars resulted in Tapper's car spinning in turn one. On the ensuing restart, Riley Larson catapulted his way into the lead past George while deeper in the field Jeff Aikey was methodically making his way forward. Aikey found himself closing in on Larson when the caution came out on lap seven and would take over the lead after the restart. Aikey would take home the win with Larson finishing in a solid second position. Ryan Griffith came home third, Todd Cooney was fourth, and Travis Smock rounded out the top five.
A long night of racing concluded at 11:40. The racing action was pretty good with a couple close finishes for the win. Hopefully the lighting issue was resolved and not rear it's ugly head anytime soon.
-Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Five makeup features were the first item of business on the night. The IMCA hobby stocks were up first as seventeen cars took the green flag. Ryan Caquelin would be the early race leader, but Kevin Schmauss was closing in on his rear bumper. At the half-way point of the race Brandon Ratcliff and Justin Ades were in a dogfight for the third spot, but Ratcliff's car would fade in the closing laps. Schmauss took the lead away from Caquelin with only two laps to go by using the outside groove. Justin Ades tried to get by Caquelin for second, but Caquelin edged him out at the line. TJ Mortenson came home fourth and Ratcliff rounded out the top five.
Next up would be the stock cars. A solid field of eighteen cars were lead early by Dave Hubbard from his outside front row starting spot. Reid Keller had other ideas though when he powered his car to the bottom side of turn four and muscled his way past for the lead. Keller would sail to the checkers followed by Mark Elliott, Jason Wagoner, Jason Minnehan, and Scott Bloemke.
Greg Simmons raced to the early lead in the IMCA sportmod feature. However, his luck would run out as the pole sitter went up in smoke down the front straight away and coasted to a stop. This handed the lead over to Austin Kaplan with Matt Lettow right behind. Lettow would take over the top spot midway through the race and begin to pull away from the field until a caution flag bunched them up again with just two laps to go. A three-wide battle ensued between Lettow, Brett Meyer, and Bryon Weyer for the lead as they came to the double checkered finish. Meyer would squeeze out the close victory just ahead of Lettow while Weyer settled for third. Rounding out the top five would be Austin Kaplan and Brandon Toftee.
J.J. Wise led the IMCA modifieds to the green flag for their makeup feature. Mark Elliott started shotgun on the field (13th), but would find himself in fourth after completing the first lap. Adam Larson would challenge Wise as he made the pass for the lead on lap three. Wise's car appear to get worse as several cars made their way past his Skyrocket machine. Once again, a caution with just two laps to go bunched the field up for a green/white/checkered finish. Scott Olson tried to get a run on Larson on the bottom side coming out of turn four, but Larson carried the momentum off the corner to take home the hardware. Olson settled for second, Nate Caruth came home third, Mike Bennett was fourth, and J.J. Wise finished a disappointing fifth.
Sixteen IMCA late models were set to do battle for their makeup event that saw pole-sitter Kelly Tapper take the early lead. His luck would run out on the second lap though as his car spun and came to a rest in turn one. That handed the reigns over to Ryan Griffith with Darrel DeFrance making his way to the front behind him. Todd Cooney's car was getting faster as the laps clicked off as he found himself getting by DeFrance and setting his sights on Griffith. The top two cars battled side by side for a couple laps before Cooney took the advantage and began to pull away to take the checkers. Jeff Aikey got by Ryan Griffith after yet another green/white/checkered restart for second and third, respectively. DeFrance was fourth and Al Johnson rounded out the top five.
After an intermission for a little track prep, the scheduled night's events were set to kick off. Things were going smoothly until some lights went out in turn four during the first heat of modifieds. There was enough lighting to finish that heat race, but track officials went to work to fix the problem and had things in working order a brief time later.
Only three IMCA sport compacts were on hand tonight. Justin Wacha was the dominant car throughout the heat race and the early part of the feature, but his car bobbled in turn one midway through the race and Gary Peiffer would take advantage as he took home the win. Wacha was second and Daniels Ayers was third.
Nineteen IMCA hobby stocks were up next for their feature as Blake Miller set the pace early on. That did not last long however as TJ Mortenson took it away on lap two. He appeared to have the win in the bag until his car came to a rest on the backstretch. This handed the lead over to Justin Ades, would went on to take the win. Miller settled for second, Kevin Schmauss was third, Craig Graham fourth, and Andy Jones rounded out the top five.
Jeff Deal took the lead early on in the stock car feature, but he would receive heavy pressure from outside front row starter Adam Silvey. Silvey went low to get by Deal on lap six for the race lead while Jason Wagoner was working his way up to the third spot. Wagoner's car was working extremely well tonight as he took the lead on the top side with two laps to go. Deal was second, Todd Foster third, Mark Elliott fourth, and Silvey finished fifth.
Twenty-two IMCA Sportmods took to the track next as Rodger Caquelin took the lead early on. A caution on lap five put Tyler Gross on the back bumper of Caquelin. Three laps later Gross dove to the bottom of the speedway to sneak past Caquelin for the top spot. Caquelin didn't give up, though, as he battled back and regained the top spot a lap later. Matt Northrup joined the top two cars to make it a four-way battle for the lead coming down to the finish. They were three-wide at the finish with Lettow edging out Gross for the win. Caquelin settled for third, Northrup was fourth, and Austin Kaplan rounded out the top five. Caquelin, however, would later be DQed according to official results. During this race, the track suffered another delay as once again the lights went out in turn four. Hopefully this will not continue to plague the track the rest of the season.
Jon Snyder used his pole starting spot to grab the lead early in the IMCA modified finale. Snyder opened up a sizable margin and would take home the easy win. Mike Bennett was second, Adam Larson third, Scott Olson fourth, and Brad Moriarty finished fifth.
The final event of the night would be the twenty-car IMCA late model feature. Jill George shot to the lead from the pole and had a couple car lengths on the rest of the field. Kelly Tapper made his way to second and closed in on the top spot, but contact between the two cars resulted in Tapper's car spinning in turn one. On the ensuing restart, Riley Larson catapulted his way into the lead past George while deeper in the field Jeff Aikey was methodically making his way forward. Aikey found himself closing in on Larson when the caution came out on lap seven and would take over the lead after the restart. Aikey would take home the win with Larson finishing in a solid second position. Ryan Griffith came home third, Todd Cooney was fourth, and Travis Smock rounded out the top five.
A long night of racing concluded at 11:40. The racing action was pretty good with a couple close finishes for the win. Hopefully the lighting issue was resolved and not rear it's ugly head anytime soon.
-Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Friday, May 15, 2009
Dusty McGinty Memorial @ Raceway Park
On Friday I journied north to Raceway Park in Jefferson, South Dakota for a Friday night show. Tonight's event was the Dusty McGinty Memorial race. McGinty was a 24-yr old track official who passed away suddenly from a heart attack. My hearts go out to his family and friends on his untimely death.
While the track was in great shape, the car count was nothing to brag about. As a result, the scheduled $1,000 to win IMCA modified feature along with the rest of the classes had their purse cut. This is very unfortunate for everybody involved, but the drivers were very understanding in this situation.
Eight IMCA hobby stocks were first to hit the track and it would be John Cain taking the early lead. He would hold the lead until five laps to go when Bill Woehler took the lead away. Woehler would go on to the race win followed by Cain, Rusty Montagne, Tony Fetterman, and Josh Ruschmann.
Only five IMCA sportmods were attendance, but the top spot was tightly contested throughout the event. R.J. Merchant would take the top spot early on, but Kyle Nordquist turned up the heat as he closed in on the top spot. With only three laps to go, Karl Brewer made his way past Nordquist for second and set his sights on Merchant. Brewer's car made contact with Merchant's, sending him into a spin and bringing out the first caution of the entire night. Officials deemed the contact was a bit much and both drivers went to the tail of the field as a result. This handed the lead back to Nordquist, and he took advantage of the opportunity as he took home the win. Merchant battled back to second, Brewer third, Gary Goodier fourth, and a #20 car came home fifth. Unfortunately I wasn't able to make out his name.
IMCA stock cars were up next as nine cars took to the track. Last year's track champion Amanda Baum brought the field to the green flag and would lead the early part of the race. Travis Baker made his way to the front and took the lead away from Baum on lap six. Shortly after the lead change, a caution flag waved as Jason Ward and Tony Ritterbush got tangled up that resulted in Ritterbush being sidelined with a flat tire. Baum used the restart to her advantage as she reclaimed the top spot and used that momentum to carry her to the feature win. Baker settled for second, former national champion Mike Nichols finished third, Max Hoffer was fourth, and Jason Ward battled back to get fifth.
IMCA modifieds were the final event of the night. As stated earlier, this race was supposed to pay the winner $1,000 and be a ballot qualifier for the Fast Shafts All-Star Invitational race held at the IMCA SuperNationals in Boone during the week of Labor Day. Unfortunately only seven modifieds showed up, resulting in the purse being cut. But that didn't stop the drivers from putting on a good show for the fans. Jimmy Cole and Jay Gooseman led the field to the green flag of the sixteen lap event. Cole jumped out front early, but his car slid up the track in turn four and made contact with the outside retaining wall, handing the lead over to Gooseman on the second lap. Jay Noteboom would maneuver up from his fifth starting spot to grab the top spot away on lap five when Gooseman suffered a flat tire. Although the field was bunched back up, it didn't phase Noteboom a bit as he pulled away from the field and won in convincing fashion. Dirk Kirk took home second place, Gooseman battled back to third, Cole made it back to fourth, and Jim Matthieson rounded out the top five.
While the car count was a little disappointing, it was fun attending my first race at Raceway Park. Track announcer Wade Sembach informed me that the track usually has 70 or more cars on a typical Sunday night, the normal night of racing. Wade and I have known each other for a few years now and he is a walking encyclopedia of driver names and hometowns. It was fun chatting with him both before and after the races, along with Jay Noteboom. Jay is a great competitor and a nice guy to talk to after the races no matter how he does on the track. Races were done by 9:20 as the show moved along at a quick pace with only a few cautions throughout the night and a short intermission.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
While the track was in great shape, the car count was nothing to brag about. As a result, the scheduled $1,000 to win IMCA modified feature along with the rest of the classes had their purse cut. This is very unfortunate for everybody involved, but the drivers were very understanding in this situation.
Eight IMCA hobby stocks were first to hit the track and it would be John Cain taking the early lead. He would hold the lead until five laps to go when Bill Woehler took the lead away. Woehler would go on to the race win followed by Cain, Rusty Montagne, Tony Fetterman, and Josh Ruschmann.
Only five IMCA sportmods were attendance, but the top spot was tightly contested throughout the event. R.J. Merchant would take the top spot early on, but Kyle Nordquist turned up the heat as he closed in on the top spot. With only three laps to go, Karl Brewer made his way past Nordquist for second and set his sights on Merchant. Brewer's car made contact with Merchant's, sending him into a spin and bringing out the first caution of the entire night. Officials deemed the contact was a bit much and both drivers went to the tail of the field as a result. This handed the lead back to Nordquist, and he took advantage of the opportunity as he took home the win. Merchant battled back to second, Brewer third, Gary Goodier fourth, and a #20 car came home fifth. Unfortunately I wasn't able to make out his name.
IMCA stock cars were up next as nine cars took to the track. Last year's track champion Amanda Baum brought the field to the green flag and would lead the early part of the race. Travis Baker made his way to the front and took the lead away from Baum on lap six. Shortly after the lead change, a caution flag waved as Jason Ward and Tony Ritterbush got tangled up that resulted in Ritterbush being sidelined with a flat tire. Baum used the restart to her advantage as she reclaimed the top spot and used that momentum to carry her to the feature win. Baker settled for second, former national champion Mike Nichols finished third, Max Hoffer was fourth, and Jason Ward battled back to get fifth.
IMCA modifieds were the final event of the night. As stated earlier, this race was supposed to pay the winner $1,000 and be a ballot qualifier for the Fast Shafts All-Star Invitational race held at the IMCA SuperNationals in Boone during the week of Labor Day. Unfortunately only seven modifieds showed up, resulting in the purse being cut. But that didn't stop the drivers from putting on a good show for the fans. Jimmy Cole and Jay Gooseman led the field to the green flag of the sixteen lap event. Cole jumped out front early, but his car slid up the track in turn four and made contact with the outside retaining wall, handing the lead over to Gooseman on the second lap. Jay Noteboom would maneuver up from his fifth starting spot to grab the top spot away on lap five when Gooseman suffered a flat tire. Although the field was bunched back up, it didn't phase Noteboom a bit as he pulled away from the field and won in convincing fashion. Dirk Kirk took home second place, Gooseman battled back to third, Cole made it back to fourth, and Jim Matthieson rounded out the top five.
While the car count was a little disappointing, it was fun attending my first race at Raceway Park. Track announcer Wade Sembach informed me that the track usually has 70 or more cars on a typical Sunday night, the normal night of racing. Wade and I have known each other for a few years now and he is a walking encyclopedia of driver names and hometowns. It was fun chatting with him both before and after the races, along with Jay Noteboom. Jay is a great competitor and a nice guy to talk to after the races no matter how he does on the track. Races were done by 9:20 as the show moved along at a quick pace with only a few cautions throughout the night and a short intermission.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
First Ever Trip to US 30 Speedway In the Books
I decided at the last minute to venture west several hours to the US 30 Speedway in Columbus, Nebraska on Thursday, May 14. This track runs their weekly show on Thursdays, giving me my first opportunity to visit the facility. The track was in great shape tonight and provided some good racing action for the fans. The later start time allows fans to get off work and still make it to the races on time. The track only runs four classes which made for a quickly run program.
Up first would be the hornets. Six cars started the feature and it would be Darik Lamberson taking home the checkers ahead of Shannon Pospisil, Jared Rodgers, Beth Wombacher, and Jeremy Barg. Jeff Davis finished a distant sixth.
Next to hit the track would be the hobby stocks. Sixteen cars set to do battle for fifteen laps and it would be outside front row starter Nelson Vollbrecht taking the early lead. Derek Theim would follow him to the front as the two battled for several laps for the top spot. Pole sitter Mike Goldfuss was running third at the time a caution flag came out with just three laps to go, but Goldfuss ducked off the track to the pit area and thus giving up his position. On the ensuing restart Brandon Kresha was running sixth but made a great move to find himself in the second spot battle Vollbrecht for the win. Kresha tried both high and low grooves, but it was not enough as he followed Vollbrecht across the finish line. Josh Gembica came home third, Jeremy Hoskinson was fourth, and Derek Spragg rounded out the top five.
Only six street stocks were on hand for the second race of the season. Troy Bergman used his second starting spot to take the lead early in the race. A caution flag bunched the cars up, allowing pole sitter Dave Freudenburg to challenge for the top spot. Bergman's car was too strong as he went home with the trophy and the win. Freudenburg was second, Joe Runquist finished third, opening night winner Roger Eaton came home fourth, and Josh Grape completed the top five.
The night was going along smoothly until the IMCA modifieds took the track for their twenty-five lap feature. After three attempts to complete the first lap, it was decided to start the field single file as opposed to the normal double-wide formation. This helped get the first lap in, but several caution flags would wave throughout the event. In fact, unofficially I had nine yellow flags. Dylan Smith would be the early race leader as the rest of the field tried to keep up with his pace. Johnny Saathoff would make his way through the field after he suffered suspension issues in his heat race and would start towards the back of the pack. After five laps of green flag racing, another caution came out, putting Chris Alcorn in second spot right behind the leader Smith. These two waged a good battle for the lead and it heated up with just a few laps to go. Alcorn got by Smith on the front stretch, but Smith battled back to take the lead coming out of turn four on the next circuit. Smith used a lapped car to his benefit after taking the white flag to take the checkers by about three car lengths over Alcorn. Johnny Saathoff finished with a solid third place, California resident Randy Brown would cross the line in fourth, and Jordan Grabouski rebounded well from an early spin to round out the top five. I don't remember the story I was told a couple months ago, but I believe Californian Randy Brown has a construction company and is in the area for work and decided to bring his racecar along with. If memory serves me correctly, he is staying with Johnny Saathoff during his time in the Midwest.
As noted earlier, the program was moved along at a very quick pace with the exception of the caution flags in the modified feature. I was a little disappointed in the amount of cars in attendance, but the racing was pretty good throughout the night. Track stayed in good shape throughout the night. Hopefully the track will pick up some more cars as the season progresses.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Up first would be the hornets. Six cars started the feature and it would be Darik Lamberson taking home the checkers ahead of Shannon Pospisil, Jared Rodgers, Beth Wombacher, and Jeremy Barg. Jeff Davis finished a distant sixth.
Next to hit the track would be the hobby stocks. Sixteen cars set to do battle for fifteen laps and it would be outside front row starter Nelson Vollbrecht taking the early lead. Derek Theim would follow him to the front as the two battled for several laps for the top spot. Pole sitter Mike Goldfuss was running third at the time a caution flag came out with just three laps to go, but Goldfuss ducked off the track to the pit area and thus giving up his position. On the ensuing restart Brandon Kresha was running sixth but made a great move to find himself in the second spot battle Vollbrecht for the win. Kresha tried both high and low grooves, but it was not enough as he followed Vollbrecht across the finish line. Josh Gembica came home third, Jeremy Hoskinson was fourth, and Derek Spragg rounded out the top five.
Only six street stocks were on hand for the second race of the season. Troy Bergman used his second starting spot to take the lead early in the race. A caution flag bunched the cars up, allowing pole sitter Dave Freudenburg to challenge for the top spot. Bergman's car was too strong as he went home with the trophy and the win. Freudenburg was second, Joe Runquist finished third, opening night winner Roger Eaton came home fourth, and Josh Grape completed the top five.
The night was going along smoothly until the IMCA modifieds took the track for their twenty-five lap feature. After three attempts to complete the first lap, it was decided to start the field single file as opposed to the normal double-wide formation. This helped get the first lap in, but several caution flags would wave throughout the event. In fact, unofficially I had nine yellow flags. Dylan Smith would be the early race leader as the rest of the field tried to keep up with his pace. Johnny Saathoff would make his way through the field after he suffered suspension issues in his heat race and would start towards the back of the pack. After five laps of green flag racing, another caution came out, putting Chris Alcorn in second spot right behind the leader Smith. These two waged a good battle for the lead and it heated up with just a few laps to go. Alcorn got by Smith on the front stretch, but Smith battled back to take the lead coming out of turn four on the next circuit. Smith used a lapped car to his benefit after taking the white flag to take the checkers by about three car lengths over Alcorn. Johnny Saathoff finished with a solid third place, California resident Randy Brown would cross the line in fourth, and Jordan Grabouski rebounded well from an early spin to round out the top five. I don't remember the story I was told a couple months ago, but I believe Californian Randy Brown has a construction company and is in the area for work and decided to bring his racecar along with. If memory serves me correctly, he is staying with Johnny Saathoff during his time in the Midwest.
As noted earlier, the program was moved along at a very quick pace with the exception of the caution flags in the modified feature. I was a little disappointed in the amount of cars in attendance, but the racing was pretty good throughout the night. Track stayed in good shape throughout the night. Hopefully the track will pick up some more cars as the season progresses.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Exciting Stock Car Finish Highlights BVR Night #2
While mist and rain covered much of the area surrounding where I live, I was optimistic and headed back to the Buena Vista Raceway on Wednesday, May 13th for the second night of racing action. Much to my surprise the sun was shining when I arrived in the parking lot. Unfortunately, the gusty winds also made their presence known as the track crew took some extra time after hot laps to water the track and pack it in before the heat races.
Just as the prior week, only four IMCA sport compacts were present tonight and it would be Cory Flanigan taking home the convincing win over Josh Egesdal.
Another strong field of IMCA hobby stocks took to the track next for their twelve lap feature. Shannon Anderson got a great jump on the start as he raced from his tenth starting spot to the lead on the very first lap. Devin Smith also made a big leap in the lineup as he went from twelfth to second by lap two and was quickly reeling in the leader. Smith made the pass for the lead at the half way point of the race, only to falter one lap later as his car slid high in turn four and handing the reigns back to Anderson. A caution flag waved with just two laps to go to give Smith another shot, but Anderson was too strong as he found victory lane. Smith finished second, Kyle Robinson came home third, Matt Mahoney was fourth, and Craig Brotherton rounded out the top five. Brotherton also made up a lot of ground as he started 19th on the grid.
Up next would be the IMCA sportmods. Eric Puhrmann raced to the early lead from his second row starting spot on lap one. However, Brett Meyer chased him down on lap two and made the pass on the bottom side in turn four. Last week's feature winner Doug Smith borrowed a car for the night and started ninth, but maneuvered through the field to finish in second. Puhrmann slipped back to third, followed by Zach Norgaard and Denny Berghahn Jr.
The IMCA stock cars have been tabbed the "Class Too Tough To Tame". That couldn't have been more evident then tonight's fifteen lap main event. The field was three-wide at the drop of the green flag and expanded to four-wide down the backstretch on the first lap. Outside front row starter Elijah Zevenbergen led lap one, but Chris Ulrich made an early charge to the front from his seventh starting spot to capture the lead on lap two. A few laps later, cars were three-wide battling for the fourth spot while it appeared Ulrich had things in hand. Donovan Smith had other plans as he made his initial start at the fast 3/8-mile track and made his way to the runner up spot just after the half-way point while brother Dustin Smith advanced up to third. Dustin Smith would later attempt to make the pass in turn two on the low side of both his brother and Ulrich and made it work until the next set of corners when Ulrich powered back by at the flagstand. The white flag waved and by this time Trent Murphy had joined the threesome at the front. The four cars would go four-wide into turn three as the crowd jumped to their feet in anticipation of a great finish. After using the bottom groove most of the race, Ulrich found himself on the top groove and powered his way off turn four to edge out the victory at the stripe. Donovan Smith came home a close second along with Murphy in third and Dustin Smith in fourth. Brian Blessington finished a few car lengths back to complete the top five in what I would call the best finish I've seen thus far this year!! What a race!!
The final feature, although not the final event, of the night would be the IMCA modifieds. A good field of sixteen cars were led to the green flag by Reese Coffee, but it would be Adam Larson taking the lead on lap one. Larson pulled away from the field momentarily until he suffered problems on lap six, handing the lead over to Jay Noteboom. That was all Noteboom needed as he had the field covered tonight, pulling away from the field on the restarts. Randy Brands was the only car running the middle to high groove of the track and wound up finishing second, just ahead of Coffee, Clayton Christensen, and Chris Abelson.
The final event of the night would be the IMCA hobby stock King of the Hill. I believe eight cars drew for their spots and raced in two-lap sprints. In the end, Shannon Anderson would lay claim as the King of the Hill as he beat Kyle Robinson in the finals. That capped off a "perfect night" for Anderson as he won his heat race, feature, and the King of the Hill.
While the wind and cold temperatures were not fun sitting in, the racing action was pretty good. Obviously track conditions were not able to hold up throughout the night with the wind, but as mentioned the stock cars put on another fantastic show for the fans. Hopefully the weather will be a little more cooperative from here on out and perhaps warm up to average temperatures for this time of year. And a little less wind would help out too!
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!
Just as the prior week, only four IMCA sport compacts were present tonight and it would be Cory Flanigan taking home the convincing win over Josh Egesdal.
Another strong field of IMCA hobby stocks took to the track next for their twelve lap feature. Shannon Anderson got a great jump on the start as he raced from his tenth starting spot to the lead on the very first lap. Devin Smith also made a big leap in the lineup as he went from twelfth to second by lap two and was quickly reeling in the leader. Smith made the pass for the lead at the half way point of the race, only to falter one lap later as his car slid high in turn four and handing the reigns back to Anderson. A caution flag waved with just two laps to go to give Smith another shot, but Anderson was too strong as he found victory lane. Smith finished second, Kyle Robinson came home third, Matt Mahoney was fourth, and Craig Brotherton rounded out the top five. Brotherton also made up a lot of ground as he started 19th on the grid.
Up next would be the IMCA sportmods. Eric Puhrmann raced to the early lead from his second row starting spot on lap one. However, Brett Meyer chased him down on lap two and made the pass on the bottom side in turn four. Last week's feature winner Doug Smith borrowed a car for the night and started ninth, but maneuvered through the field to finish in second. Puhrmann slipped back to third, followed by Zach Norgaard and Denny Berghahn Jr.
The IMCA stock cars have been tabbed the "Class Too Tough To Tame". That couldn't have been more evident then tonight's fifteen lap main event. The field was three-wide at the drop of the green flag and expanded to four-wide down the backstretch on the first lap. Outside front row starter Elijah Zevenbergen led lap one, but Chris Ulrich made an early charge to the front from his seventh starting spot to capture the lead on lap two. A few laps later, cars were three-wide battling for the fourth spot while it appeared Ulrich had things in hand. Donovan Smith had other plans as he made his initial start at the fast 3/8-mile track and made his way to the runner up spot just after the half-way point while brother Dustin Smith advanced up to third. Dustin Smith would later attempt to make the pass in turn two on the low side of both his brother and Ulrich and made it work until the next set of corners when Ulrich powered back by at the flagstand. The white flag waved and by this time Trent Murphy had joined the threesome at the front. The four cars would go four-wide into turn three as the crowd jumped to their feet in anticipation of a great finish. After using the bottom groove most of the race, Ulrich found himself on the top groove and powered his way off turn four to edge out the victory at the stripe. Donovan Smith came home a close second along with Murphy in third and Dustin Smith in fourth. Brian Blessington finished a few car lengths back to complete the top five in what I would call the best finish I've seen thus far this year!! What a race!!
The final feature, although not the final event, of the night would be the IMCA modifieds. A good field of sixteen cars were led to the green flag by Reese Coffee, but it would be Adam Larson taking the lead on lap one. Larson pulled away from the field momentarily until he suffered problems on lap six, handing the lead over to Jay Noteboom. That was all Noteboom needed as he had the field covered tonight, pulling away from the field on the restarts. Randy Brands was the only car running the middle to high groove of the track and wound up finishing second, just ahead of Coffee, Clayton Christensen, and Chris Abelson.
The final event of the night would be the IMCA hobby stock King of the Hill. I believe eight cars drew for their spots and raced in two-lap sprints. In the end, Shannon Anderson would lay claim as the King of the Hill as he beat Kyle Robinson in the finals. That capped off a "perfect night" for Anderson as he won his heat race, feature, and the King of the Hill.
While the wind and cold temperatures were not fun sitting in, the racing action was pretty good. Obviously track conditions were not able to hold up throughout the night with the wind, but as mentioned the stock cars put on another fantastic show for the fans. Hopefully the weather will be a little more cooperative from here on out and perhaps warm up to average temperatures for this time of year. And a little less wind would help out too!
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Ackerman Repeats on a Cold Night in Mason City
A cold May night was up next for "Tapfan's Tours" as I came back to the I-35 Speedway in Mason City for Sunday night, May 10th. A great field of cars were checked into the pits as several drivers were unable to race earlier in the weekend due to the weather not cooperating.
Ken Winkowitsch took home the novice hornet feature win. He was black flagged for questionable driving in the heat race, started in the fourth row and took home the victory ahead of seven other cars. Jesse Harang would prevail in the senior hornets that had a field of eight cars.
Up next would be the hobby stocks. Twenty cars checked into the pits for action on the big half-mile track tonight. Mick Meyers quickly jumped out front while the action heated up behind him as there were two rows of 3 cars wide trying to chase him down. One of those cars was Cory Gansen, would caught Meyers and ran door to door with him for a few laps before finally taking the top spot away and racing on to the victory. Robert Black barely edged out Meyers for the runner up spot and Meyers slipped back to third, Heath Tulp was fourth, and Stac Schroeder rounded out the top five.
Twenty-seven bmods were scheduled to start their feature tonight, but unfortunately two drivers were unable to make the call for the twelve-lap race. Nick West took the lead early on until Adam Ackerman caught and passed him on the second circuit of the race. Ackerman would cruise to the easy win, followed by Dustin Brown in second, third went to Nick West, Mike Jaeger was fourth, and Matt Hoeft completed the top five.
The IMCA stock cars were up next. Outside front row starter Jared Dirks proved the front was the place to start as he took the lead on lap two and would never relinquish it as he went on to the win. Pole sitter Merlyn Hegland finished second, Kevin Opheim came home third after starting ninth, Travis Prochaska was fourth, and Joe Willier rounded out the top five.
The final event of the night would be the IMCA modifieds. Terrance Prochaska used his second starting spot to capture the lead early on as Rich Lewerke gave chase. Lewerke tried to catch Prochaska, but his car pushed up the track in turn three and made contact with the outside wall and ending his night. Prochaska would then receive pressure from J.J. Wise before surrendering the spot. Prochaska would later pull off the track with motor problems. Alex Yohn got by Monson for second and set his sights on Wise, but it wasn't enough as Wise took home the trophy. Shane Monson finished third, and in a very close finish Ty Mennenga edged out TJ Stalker for fourth.
Another good night of racing at Mason City. The track was a little bit on the choppy side as a result of 5+ inches of rain on Friday, but the drivers were still able to put on a show for the fans. It was nice to see J.J. Wise get the win after his bad luck with the tractor tire last week. And it was nice to finally make it home after a good weekend of races that included two new tracks for me.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!
Ken Winkowitsch took home the novice hornet feature win. He was black flagged for questionable driving in the heat race, started in the fourth row and took home the victory ahead of seven other cars. Jesse Harang would prevail in the senior hornets that had a field of eight cars.
Up next would be the hobby stocks. Twenty cars checked into the pits for action on the big half-mile track tonight. Mick Meyers quickly jumped out front while the action heated up behind him as there were two rows of 3 cars wide trying to chase him down. One of those cars was Cory Gansen, would caught Meyers and ran door to door with him for a few laps before finally taking the top spot away and racing on to the victory. Robert Black barely edged out Meyers for the runner up spot and Meyers slipped back to third, Heath Tulp was fourth, and Stac Schroeder rounded out the top five.
Twenty-seven bmods were scheduled to start their feature tonight, but unfortunately two drivers were unable to make the call for the twelve-lap race. Nick West took the lead early on until Adam Ackerman caught and passed him on the second circuit of the race. Ackerman would cruise to the easy win, followed by Dustin Brown in second, third went to Nick West, Mike Jaeger was fourth, and Matt Hoeft completed the top five.
The IMCA stock cars were up next. Outside front row starter Jared Dirks proved the front was the place to start as he took the lead on lap two and would never relinquish it as he went on to the win. Pole sitter Merlyn Hegland finished second, Kevin Opheim came home third after starting ninth, Travis Prochaska was fourth, and Joe Willier rounded out the top five.
The final event of the night would be the IMCA modifieds. Terrance Prochaska used his second starting spot to capture the lead early on as Rich Lewerke gave chase. Lewerke tried to catch Prochaska, but his car pushed up the track in turn three and made contact with the outside wall and ending his night. Prochaska would then receive pressure from J.J. Wise before surrendering the spot. Prochaska would later pull off the track with motor problems. Alex Yohn got by Monson for second and set his sights on Wise, but it wasn't enough as Wise took home the trophy. Shane Monson finished third, and in a very close finish Ty Mennenga edged out TJ Stalker for fourth.
Another good night of racing at Mason City. The track was a little bit on the choppy side as a result of 5+ inches of rain on Friday, but the drivers were still able to put on a show for the fans. It was nice to see J.J. Wise get the win after his bad luck with the tractor tire last week. And it was nice to finally make it home after a good weekend of races that included two new tracks for me.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!
Birkhofer Wins Diamond Nationals @ Lucas Oil Speedway
"If you build it, they will come." A phrase quote from the movie "Field of Dreams", it also can be used by the Lucas Oil Speedway. The magnificent facility located in Wheatland, Missouri hosted the third annual Diamond Nationals, a late model event that pays the winner $30,000 plus a diamond ring, on Saturday May 8th. A stellar group of 76 late model drivers were on hand as well as forty-five open modifieds. The two-day event was shortened to a Saturday only show as the weather forced the cancellation of Friday's events.
The late models went through their time trials to kick off the program and it would be Missouri driver Will Vaught earning fast time with a quick lap of 14.905 seconds on the 3/8 mile track. Modifieds also used time trials to set up their event later in the show and it would be David Hendrix setting fast with with a 17.631 clip.
Heat races were run next for the late models followed by b-features for the modifieds. The format for the modifieds were a little different then I'm used to as the top 16 from time trials automatically were locked into the feature and the rest of the field would have to run a b-feature. Two late model b-features were also run as the field was set for the showcase of the night. Before the features rolled out, track officials took some time to work on the track as there were a few ruts in turn one.
The 75-lap late model feature would take to the track first as twenty-nine drivers set their sights on the top prize of $30,000. This race was co-sanctioned by both the Lucas Oil late model dirt series as well as the MLRA. Last year's winner Shannon Babb found himself on the pole while David Breazeale was alongside. Inaugural winner Brian Birkhofer found himself starting in the third spot, but he would not stay there for long. Babb jumped out to the lead early on, but "Birky" caught him on lap four and made the pass for the top spot. Three laps later, Babb's night would end on a sour note as Brad Neat's car drifted up the track coming out of turn two and made contact with Babb's left front. Babb coasted to a stop, bringing out the caution flag. Birkhofer took command of the race on the restart until the caution flag waved again on lap twenty-nine. By this time, provisional starters Scott Bloomquist, Billy Moyer, and Scott James were making their way through the field while Earl Pearson found himself in the runner up spot.
Lap fifty saw four cars battling it out for the fourth position as Steve Casebolt, Dale McDowell, Brad Neat, and Moyer wrestled for every piece of real estate they could find. Casebolt would win this battle and set his sights further ahead as he climbed his way up to second. Another caution slowed the field down and Jimmy Mars would take advantage of it as he passed two cars and set his sights on the leader Birkhofer. Mars, nor the rest of the field, was going to catch Birkhofer as he took home the top prize for the second time in three years at this event. Dale McDowell charged back up to claim the second spot, Moyer finished third as he got by fourth place driver Jimmy Mars with two laps to go, and Casebolt rounded out the top five. The track was in great shape as drivers raced three-wide for several laps throughout the event. Birkhofer's car was dialed in perfectly as he enjoyed a couple big leads, some even while working through lapped traffic. McDowell started 19th, Moyer 27th, and Mars 12th, so that should tell ya how great the track was for this awesome caliber of talent.
Twenty-four modifieds were up next for their twenty-lap feature event to cap off the night. David Hendrix took advantage of his pole starting spot to jump out front early. At the half-way point of the race, Jesse Stovall was running second when he suffered a flat left rear tire. He went pitside to change it, but restarted deep in the field was would not be able to come back through the field. Muskogee, Oklahoma driver Tate Cole came home second behind Hendrix, Justin Folk was third, veteran driver Rex Merritt was fourth, and Chad Wheeler rounded out the top five.
My first ever trip to the Lucas Oil Speedway in Wheatland, Missouri was a very enjoyable one! A state of the art facility with a great crowd on hand. Definitely a must-see for any race fan. I hope to make it back down there again in June for the USMTS modified special.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!
The late models went through their time trials to kick off the program and it would be Missouri driver Will Vaught earning fast time with a quick lap of 14.905 seconds on the 3/8 mile track. Modifieds also used time trials to set up their event later in the show and it would be David Hendrix setting fast with with a 17.631 clip.
Heat races were run next for the late models followed by b-features for the modifieds. The format for the modifieds were a little different then I'm used to as the top 16 from time trials automatically were locked into the feature and the rest of the field would have to run a b-feature. Two late model b-features were also run as the field was set for the showcase of the night. Before the features rolled out, track officials took some time to work on the track as there were a few ruts in turn one.
The 75-lap late model feature would take to the track first as twenty-nine drivers set their sights on the top prize of $30,000. This race was co-sanctioned by both the Lucas Oil late model dirt series as well as the MLRA. Last year's winner Shannon Babb found himself on the pole while David Breazeale was alongside. Inaugural winner Brian Birkhofer found himself starting in the third spot, but he would not stay there for long. Babb jumped out to the lead early on, but "Birky" caught him on lap four and made the pass for the top spot. Three laps later, Babb's night would end on a sour note as Brad Neat's car drifted up the track coming out of turn two and made contact with Babb's left front. Babb coasted to a stop, bringing out the caution flag. Birkhofer took command of the race on the restart until the caution flag waved again on lap twenty-nine. By this time, provisional starters Scott Bloomquist, Billy Moyer, and Scott James were making their way through the field while Earl Pearson found himself in the runner up spot.
Lap fifty saw four cars battling it out for the fourth position as Steve Casebolt, Dale McDowell, Brad Neat, and Moyer wrestled for every piece of real estate they could find. Casebolt would win this battle and set his sights further ahead as he climbed his way up to second. Another caution slowed the field down and Jimmy Mars would take advantage of it as he passed two cars and set his sights on the leader Birkhofer. Mars, nor the rest of the field, was going to catch Birkhofer as he took home the top prize for the second time in three years at this event. Dale McDowell charged back up to claim the second spot, Moyer finished third as he got by fourth place driver Jimmy Mars with two laps to go, and Casebolt rounded out the top five. The track was in great shape as drivers raced three-wide for several laps throughout the event. Birkhofer's car was dialed in perfectly as he enjoyed a couple big leads, some even while working through lapped traffic. McDowell started 19th, Moyer 27th, and Mars 12th, so that should tell ya how great the track was for this awesome caliber of talent.
Twenty-four modifieds were up next for their twenty-lap feature event to cap off the night. David Hendrix took advantage of his pole starting spot to jump out front early. At the half-way point of the race, Jesse Stovall was running second when he suffered a flat left rear tire. He went pitside to change it, but restarted deep in the field was would not be able to come back through the field. Muskogee, Oklahoma driver Tate Cole came home second behind Hendrix, Justin Folk was third, veteran driver Rex Merritt was fourth, and Chad Wheeler rounded out the top five.
My first ever trip to the Lucas Oil Speedway in Wheatland, Missouri was a very enjoyable one! A state of the art facility with a great crowd on hand. Definitely a must-see for any race fan. I hope to make it back down there again in June for the USMTS modified special.
- Racing may be a hobby, but it's DEFINITELY addictive!
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