Racin'
& Different Stuff:
By Tom
Avenengo
01/10/2013
First:
The sad thing
about this time of the year is that there really isn’t much doing as far as
auto racing goes, especially here in the northeast. Yes, there are the three indoor TQ races here
in the northeast over the course of a month, or so. And some indoor midget races in the Midwest,
ending up with the Chili Bowl out in
Ah, but
wait! Daytona will have practice on
SPEED starting on the 10th of January! Hooray, we get to watch one car at a time
circle that big, banked two and a half mile super speedway!
I wonder why
there are no weekly indoor races here in the northeast, like they used to have
back in the 40’s 50’s and 60’s – at places like the Kingsbridge Armory, in the
Bronx, The Island Garden in West Hempstead,
NY, Commack Arena in
Commack, NY, Nassau Veterans Coliseum in Uniondale, NY, Atlantic City
Convention Center in Atlantic City, NJ, and New Haven Veterans Coliseum in New
Haven, and the Teaneck Armory in Teaneck, NJ.
A little about
the Kingsbridge Armory, and what MIGHT happen:
http://ny.curbed.com/tags/kingsbridge-armory
From a column of
mine from 12/29/2011:
http://newenglandtractor.com/racereport/ta/vol87.htm
“The world's largest armory will be redeveloped into commercial space,
including some community space among a big box retailer, a cinema, a bank
branch, a fitness center and a local business incubator to fit within the
armory’s 575,000 square feet.
The four-block square
The castle-styled building was constructed in 1912-17 to
house the Eighth Artillery Rainbow Division but has had various civilian uses
into the 1990s.
Local midget car promoter Jack Kochman leased 180,000
square feet of the armory and reopened it as Kingsbridge Speedrome Dec. 4,
1946.
Spectators filed into the 4,000 box seats to watch
midgets and NASCAR-sanctioned stock cars race on a concrete one-fifth-mile oval
under the armory’s 121-foot-tall roof on winters into 1962.”
Note: So, really the track could have been bigger,
I suppose? 180,000 square feet out of
575,000?
Second:
On the home
front – this writer finally started feeling a little better the other day. I guess I was thisclosetohaving the flu. This past Tuesday, the wife, who is so damn
lucky not to have caught what I had, had her next to last IV Chemo
treatment. Next one is on January 29th.
We had a nice
small gathering for Christmas dinner at our place. We’ve had a problem with our stove for quite
a while – like the oven loses heat.
Well, that happened on Christmas day, too. We cooked two turkey breasts, and even with a
little extra time in the oven, they didn’t get fully cooked. The wife had made mention of the oven problem
to our grandson, Brett, and his wife, Susie.
Those damn kids took it upon themselves (after asking us, of course) to
get us a brand new stove. Bless them!
Third:
Over this past year, I’ve become friends with
a Brian Caruso. Brian is out in
http://www.carusomidgetracing.com/
We’ve communicated back and forth quite a
bit, but what he sent me, via an e-mail the other day, when he and I were
comparing the ARDC of back in the day, to the ARDC of today, got me to thinking
when he got back to me with this:
“Tom,
I know what you mean and back then they drove on 2 lane roads not
interstates.
My Grandfather raced 8 times a week back in the day. Talk about
dedication, I heard that my Grandmother used to take the engines apart and
thought it was a joke. A few years ago I found out it was true. When my
Grandfather got home late my Grandmother would take the Offy engine apart and
wash the parts down with gasoline and lay the parts on sheets in the yard. When
he got up it gave him a head start on rebuilding and they could race the next
night. I am sure you could get a wife to do that today. LOL
Brian”
Fourth:
In part:
“Jigger Sirois qualifies without question as a hero of the
It dates to 1969, when Jigger was trying to qualify for his
first 500. On Pole Day, rain washed out virtually the whole qualifying session
until Jigger went out late in the day on a dry track, logging three timed laps
at 161 MPH. His crew feared Jigger was too slow and waved off the attempt. The
only other car to go out was Arnie Knepper, but rain poured down again during
his run. Had Jigger completed his four qualifying laps, he would have won the
pole for the 1969 race despite being among the slowest qualifiers. And if his
time had not held up, and he had been bumped from the field by Peter Revson,
then Jigger would have been the first and only pole winner to be bumped, based
on the rule saying that at Indy, the fastest 33 cars start the 500.”
More on Jigger can be found here: http://blog.hemmings.com/index.php/tag/jigger-sirois/
Fifth:
Question: Does anyone know just what a “Droid” is?
Sixth:
Damned if I can find it, but
a while back I came out and said I thought Kyle Larson would win the Chili
Bowl. Well, he won one of the races this
past Tuesday night. A short video of him
doing victory donuts is in my Video section, towards the end of the column.
Seventh:
Interest
high in first national-series dirt event since 1970
In part:
“It took
Eldora Speedway three minutes to sell 1,500 tickets. In a half-hour, 6,500 were
gone. By the end of the first day, the main grandstand was sold out. By the end
of the weekend, only a few thousand reserved seats were left for the track’s
inaugural NASCAR Camping World Truck Series event.
The first few days of ticket sales for NASCAR’s
return to dirt racing were brisk ones, with purchases made by households in 48
http://www.nascar.com/en_us/news-media/articles/2013/01/07/eldora-ticket-sales.html?eref=/jayski
Eighth:
Tony Stewart and Kasey Kahne
are among the NASCAR drivers entered in the 2013 Lucas Oil Chili Bowl
Nationals, traditionally one of the biggest Midget car events of the season.
Other NASCAR drivers: J.J. Yeley, Cole Whitt, Kevin Swindell, Jason
Leffler, Brad Sweet, Kyle Larson, Dakoda Armstrong and Justin Allgaier.
Ninth:
In part:
“Extreme
sports star Travis Pastrana has done some wild and daring things
during his action sports career.
But one of the
riskiest might have come recently when he flew with team owner Jack Roush in
Roush’s P-51 Mustang.”
Tenth:
Abandoned race
tracks?
So far the
thread is up to 9 pages in length. Some
interesting and famous tracks that are
no longer being raced on, and maybe with a little work, could be again.
http://www.trackforum.com/forums/showthread.php?165834-Abandoned-race-tracks
Eleventh:
Could this be
true? Imagine if it is?
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10150199305532761
Found
on Jayski’s website:
35 teams testing at Daytona:
NASCAR fans will get their first glimpse of the new sixth-generation NASCAR
Sprint Cup Series cars on the storied Daytona International Speedway for three
days this week at Preseason Thunder, the unofficial on-track start of the 2013
NASCAR season. This week's sessions will be the only test for the new car at
Daytona prior to Speedweeks, which begins with The Sprint Unlimited on Feb. 16
and culminates with the 55th running of the Daytona 500 on Feb. 24.
"This test is an
opportunity for the teams to prepare their cars for Speedweeks and the 55th
running of the Daytona 500," said Robin Pemberton, NASCAR vice president of
competition. "This is the teams' test and provides an excellent lead in to
the upcoming 2013 season. There has been a lot of work put into the development
of the Gen-6 car by the manufacturers, teams and NASCAR. It will be exciting to
see the new cars on the track for Daytona Preseason Thunder."
After several tests for the
new car, including one restrictor plate test at Talladega Superspeedway, the
rules package has been set heading into Preseason Thunder.
The rules package for Daytona
includes:
• Plate size - 29/32"
(same plate size as 2012)
• Spoiler size - 4" high
x 53" wide
• Spoiler angle - 70 degrees
• Front Grille size -
1-3/4" high x 23" wide
• Radiator Relief valve - 32
psi
Teams participating in the
test are:
Car # Team Name Driver
1 Earnhardt Ganassi Racing Jamie
McMurray
2 Penske Racing Brad
Keselowski
5 Hendrick Motorsports Kasey
Kahne
9 Richard Petty Motorsports Marcos
Ambrose
10 Stewart Haas Racing Danica
Patrick
11 Joe Gibbs Racing Denny
Hamlin
13 Germain Racing Casey
Mears
14 Stewart Haas Racing Tony
Stewart
15 Michael Waltrip Racing Clint
Bowyer
16 Roush Fenway Racing Greg
Biffle
17 Roush Fenway Racing Ricky
Stenhouse Jr.
18 Joe Gibbs Racing Kyle
Busch
20 Joe Gibbs Racing Matt
Kenseth
21 Wood Bros Racing Trevor
Bayne
22 Penske Racing Joey Logano
24 Hendrick Motorsports Jeff
Gordon
27 Richard Childress Racing Paul
Menard
29 Richard Childress Racing Kevin
Harvick
31 Richard Childress Racing Jeff
33 Richard Childress Racing Austin
Dillon
36 Tommy Baldwin Racing Dave
Blaney
38 Front Row Motorsports Josh
Wise
39 Stewart Haas Racing Ryan
Newman
42 Earnhardt Ganassi Racing Juan
Pablo Montoya
43 Richard Petty Motorsports Aric
Almirola
47 JTG-Daugherty Racing Bobby
Labonte
48 Hendrick Motorsports Jimmie
Johnson
51
55 Michael Waltrip Racing Mark
Martin
56 Michael Waltrip Racing Martin
Truex
78 Furniture Row Racing Kurt
Busch
83 BK Racing Travis
Kvapil/David Reutimann
88 Hendrick Motorsports Dale
Earnhardt Jr.
95 Leavine Family Racing Scott
Speed
99 Roush Fenway Racing Carl
Edwards
Thurs,
Fri, Sat.--- Live streaming on speed.com 9am-12 EST. Afternoon sessions 1pm-5pm
EST are on Speed TV & then Race Hub Recap
Finch working on driver lineup for #51 UPDATE 3:
Phoenix
Racing team owner James Finch is close to settling on his lineup for 2013.
Finch said Thursday that Regan Smith will run the Daytona 500 in the #51 Chevy.
But with Smith concentrating on his new gig with JR Motorsports, there will be
an opportunity for AJ Allmendinger as well. "Regan will go to Daytona for
us, but I want to help AJ run some races, too," Finch said. "We're
still working on the final schedule, but AJ will probably run
UPDATE:
James
(Finch) telling Newschannel 7 Sports he's committed to run at least 18 Cup
races in 2013, starting with the Daytona 500. He says he's secured a sponsor
for both Daytona races in February, but won't announce that sponsor until after
the first. James says Regan Smith will drive for
UPDATE 2:
As
the clock winds down on 2012, Phoenix Racing, based in
UPDATE 3:
Phoenix
Racing will put Regan Smith in its car for the Daytona 500 and plans to have
Smith and AJ Allmendinger share driving duties for its Sprint Cup team in 2013.
It also hopes to reunite with Kurt Busch for Nationwide Series races. Team
general manager Steve Barkdoll said Tuesday that the team plans to field a Cup car
for the entire season and a Nationwide car for restrictor-plate events plus
other select races. Smith will drive the Cup car at Daytona and possibly in
seven to 10 races throughout the season. Barkdoll said he expects
Allmendinger's first race to be at
Phoenix Racing gets Daytona sponsor:
Phoenix
Racing announced that Guy Roofing Inc. will sponsor its #1 Chevy in the
DRIVE4COPD 300 on Saturday, February 23 and its #51 Chevy in the Daytona 500 on
Sunday, February 24. The events at the historic, high-banked 2.5-mile oval will
mark the organization's first NASCAR sponsorship endeavors. Guy Roofing is a
national full service residential, commercial, and industrial roofing
contractor headquartered in
2013 silly season notes for
#17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. / Roush Fenway Racing: Two-time NASCAR Nationwide Champ Ricky Stenhouse Jr. moves up
to the Sprint Cup level in 2013. Stenhouse Jr. will run for the Rookie of the
Year and take over the #17 from Matt Kenseth, who ran the car since 2000. Scott
Graves will lead the #17 team as the crew chief.
Mayfield plea deal underway:
A judge
agreed Monday to keep open former NASCAR driver Jeremy Mayfield's case in
Catawba County Superior Court this week. Mayfield's Attorney David Freedman and
the district attorney's office appear to be trying to work out a deal.
"Communication is open," Mayfield said Monday. "We'll see how it
goes." Mayfield said he will not take any kind of plea deal that would
mean jail time. Mayfield was in court Monday on felony possession of
methamphetamine, three counts of felony possession of stolen goods/property and
felony obtaining property by false pretense. All five charges stem from a
search investigators conducted on Mayfield's property on
Mayfield calls radio show to question
An offseason
NASCAR radio show took a bizarre turn Tuesday night when suspended driver
Jeremy Mayfield called in to confront NASCAR CEO Brian France on the air.
Mayfield, who spent more than three years fighting a NASCAR-imposed suspension
after he tested positive for methamphetamines, placed a call to the Motor Racing
Network's NASCAR Live show as
The driver, who said he was considering a plea
deal this week over multiple felony charges, got his call put through to France
and host Eli Gold, who welcomed him to the show.
"I thought I would just call in and see how
you guys were doing, Brian, Eli," Mayfield said. "Haven't been around
much to talk to you guys lately, and just wanted to ask Brian if he's willing
to accept the fact I'd like to come back racing and if we could sit down and
talk about it and figure out what we need to do to make that work."
"Well, Jeremy, you know the path back for
you it's the path back for
anybody," [
Mayfield quickly got off the air after
No DirecTV Hot Pass in 2013:
DirecTV is
doing away with its
Allmendinger still working on 2013 plans:
AJ
Allmendinger tried to close the book on 2012 by going to bed early on New Years
Eve and not celebrating the end of the year. But it was hard for him when just
a few days later he drove through the tunnel at Daytona International Speedway.
He couldn't help but remember last July when he drove through the DIS tunnel
wondering if he would ever race again as NASCAR had just suspended him for a
failed drug test the previous weekend at Kentucky Speedway. His return to
Daytona Friday didn't have that type of drama as he set the fast time in
testing for the Rolex 24 Hours At Daytona, which is scheduled for Jan. 26-27 on
the track's road course. Allmendinger is driving for Michael Shank Racing,
whose team he anchored in winning the sportscar event a year ago in perhaps
Allmendinger's biggest win in his racing career. Allmendinger was fired by
Penske Racing for the failed drug test. He drove two races for #51-Phoenix
Racing following his reinstatement and while mentioned as a possible driver for
select races for the team in 2013 Allmendinger said he has nothing set beyond
the 24-hour race. "As of right now, this is the only race I've got
planned," the 31-year-old Allmendinger said. "We know how this world
works. It's crazy. & I definitely want to be back in the Cup Series because
I have got a lot of unfinished business. It's not the way I want to go out like
that. I'm open to all options sportscar racing, IndyCar racing, Cup,
Nationwide, trucks, whatever."(Sporting News)(1-6-2013)
News from the AARN:
Nothing this
week, and it’s doubtful I’d have an AARN by this weeks column, since they’re on
vacation, and next issue is due January 8th.
Here are the
entry lists for the Indoor Racing at
http://www.aarn.com/acindoorrace2013/acentrylists2013.html
Note: The 600 Micros, Champ Karts and Slingshot
classes have been filled.
Here’s what will
be in this weeks issue, however:
What’s covered
in this weeks issue from 1/8/2013:
In AARN
This
Week:
Racing World
Mourns The Loss
Of Many Who
Died Over The Holidays
Ted
Christopher Overcomes Tough Field,
Freak
Pitside Fire To Win
Providence's
Coffee Cup TQ Race
Lance Dewease,
Mike Heffner
Unite To
Form
Potent New
410 Sprint Team
Chili Bowl This
Weekend
Awaits ARDC
Midget Onslaught
Ryan Godown
Claims
Lions Share
Of New Egypt Speedway
Cash At AC
Fete
Eastern
Motorsport Press Association
Holds
Convention;
AARN
Staffers Earn Key Awards
Richard
Tobias Announces
Bold
Plans For Kutztown Track,
SpeedSTR
Class
VMRS
Modified Teams Gather
To
Honor McKennedy, Barry
NASCAR
Camping World Trucks
To Race
On Eldora's Dirt In 2013
Mike
Dicely, TIm Buckwalter
Among
Tulsa Micro Shootout
Eastern
Stars.
Press Releases:
`Jeffrey Hogue Purchases Naming Rights to the
Action Track
In what is believed to be "a first"
for this region's short track racing industry, co-promoters Rich Tobias and
Doug Rose have announced that Wyomissing realtor Jeffrey Hogue has purchased
the naming rights to Action Track
While the details of the purchase were not
disclosed, the deal has been confirmed by all parties and the new name of the
speedway is officially the "JeffreyHogueRealtor.com Action Track".
Hogue, the number one realtor in
"I sell more homes than any other realtor
in
That's when Brad Reinert, a friend of Rose who
is lending a hand in the marketing of the speedway, entered the picture. He
queried Hogue about purchasing a billboard for the Action Track's first season
under Tobias and Rose. Hogue checked out the track's Facebook page and noticed
that it was possible to obtain the naming rights to the speedway. When Reinert
confirmed that fact, Hogue said, "I'll write the check and get it to you
tomorrow."
Admitting that his initial reason for the
investment was "strictly for business reasons - my realty business,"
Hogue quickly became enamored with the facility's potential as he and the
promotional team discussed their plans and goals for the speedway.
"As I talk to Doug and Rich and hear about
everything they've got planned for this place, it's become a passion for me,
too. I want to help make the Action Track a success. I told them to let me know
if they need anything as they reconfigure the track."
Rose and Tobias were thrilled to find a
marketing partner so soon, and Rose confirmed that one of his goals was to find
someone who was interested in the naming rights to the speedway.
"One of the reasons we decided to call it
"the Action Track" is because that name seemed to lend itself to
adding a business name in front of it," said Rose. "We kicked around
a bunch of other names, but that one seemed to work best if and when we sold
the naming rights."
Hogue is not a stranger to motorsports; in fact,
he has a long and very interesting background in racing.
"I
sat in the fourth turn bleachers at the Reading Fairgrounds. I couldn't get
enough dirt in my soda, and I loved seeing those Modifieds wheeling through the
corners," noted Hogue.
When he wasn't watching the action on the famous
half-mile Fairgrounds oval, Hogue was racing models of his heroes in the alleys
of
"I was recruited by Penske Racing to work
on Rick Mears' team. Their Indy Car teams were based in
Hogue was part of the crew that transported the
cars, set up the pits, and did whatever was needed on the cars. "It was
awesome," admits Hogue, "and I treasure all the photos I've got of my
time with Penske. I was in victory lane with Danny Sullivan and Mears, and I
got to know Fittipaldi pretty well. Those were great years."
Hogue was part of Penske's Indy Car program from
'90 - '93, when he got married and delved into the real estate business.
Today, Hogue sells residential and commercial
properties, and he also gets involved with sub-divisions and land development.
He's also a professional photographer - "I've got a bucket truck that I
use to take very unique photos of the properties that I'm selling; the photos
offer prospective buyers a different perspective of the houses and
properties," says Hogue.
Despite his busy schedule, Hogue says he will
not be an absentee naming rights owner at the speedway. "Oh, you can bet
I'll be there...I can't wait for the season to begin. And I'm bringing people
with me, too. This is going to be exciting; Rich and Doug have a lot of ideas
about making the racing great and keeping the fans entertained. We're gonna
have some fun at the Action Track in 2013."
The SpeedSTR's will be the headline division at
the JeffreyHogueRealtor.com Action Track, paying $2,000 to win the Wednesday
night main events. Joining the SpeedSTR's will be the All Star Slingshots,
wingless 600cc and winged 270cc Micro-Sprints.
For additional information on Hogue's realty
business, log on to www.JeffreyHogueRealtor.com.
Additional details regarding the 2013 racing
season at the Action Track can be found atwww.actiontrackusa.com; www.speedwayentertainment.com; and at Facebook.com/ActionTrackUSA.
Media Contact:
Barry Angstadt, Media Information Director/Announcer
And:
NASCAR BUS TRIP 10TH ANNUAL
Dover " The Monster
Mile "
Sun June 2nd , 2013
R/T Deluxe Motorcoach
Departs Middletown and
Monroe NY
Reserved Premium Race Ticket
Turn #1 $84 Value
All You Can Eat Barbecue Lunch
Served by J and A Caterers of
Monroe
ENTERTAINMENT
Broken Dice Duo from America Got
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PRE RACE TRACKSIDE TOUR TIX
Depending on availability -
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Plus:
From SpeedSTR:
Banquet / AC & MoreMonday, 7 January,
2013 11:54 AM
From: "SpeedE61@aol.com"
<SpeedE61@aol.com>Add sender to Contacts
To: speede61@aol.com
I want to thank everyone that attended the
Awards Banquet on Saturday night,it was a great way to celebrate and honor our
champions and top tour runners and special award winners.
Special thanks to Amy and Pete
Knappenberger for manning the greeting table and for Amy's efforts in getting
$731 in the Charity Auction ticket sales.
Thanks to "Dyno" Dave
McCullough,John Bockhorn,Wendy Bieber,Rich Tobias,Debbie Rahmer,Ray Nemeth,Jr.
and everyone that purchased tickets.
Muddy's BBQ did their fantastic job of
supplying the food and PJKNAP Productions had the music for dancing."The
Voice of Choice" Barry Angstadt did another superb job as MC and kept
things moving throughout the awards ceremony with Carl Labonte adding the
French translations.Myerstown Beverage supplied the beer and Rich made sure
everyone had plenty of soda and some after meal cookies.
Maxime Plante did a wonderful job in
showing his gratitude for the SpeedSTR Driver of the Year Award and National
Champion.Brett Bieber's championship makes him the first 2 time National
Champion and will be looking for a 3 peat in 2013.
The AC Thursday night 5 hour practice
should have 3 rounds for each class,but you must be ready when called upon for
track time.It is usually paid for when you sign in on Thursday.No fuel will be
allowed to be brought inside Boardwalk Hall.Tires cannot be ground
inside.Helmet is 2005 Snell and belts must be newer than 2/2011.
I will be heading to the Action Track USA
on Weds.weather permitting to take a few updated photos.The March 17th Media
Day is still on schedule.I'll post them on the Action Track USA and Speedway
Entertainment Facebook Group pages.Just to make sure all Slingshot teams are in
the know,there will NOT be a drop in the payout for 2013 at the Action
Track,like some of the message board rumors have been telling us.Doug Rose is
open for sponsorship proposals or suggestions.
The Canada SpeedSTR's have been a part of the
SpeedSTR National points since it's inception and for 2013 the Slingshots are
also running for the Elite 11 Slingshot National Championship.
Weikel's Sportswear will be getting a
visit by me this week to design the 2012 Champions Shirts,again all track
champions and the top tour and National finishers will be listed.
A question regarding the 2013 Slingshot
points was emailed to me and the easiest way I can answer it is,if you attend a
national and there are 26 cars entered ,the winner will get 146 points instead
of 120 and if there are 9 cars entered the winner will get 129 points with all
other spots also receiving the additional car entry total points.If a track
starts 22 cars and there are 34 entered,I do look at the B Main or consi
results and fill in the needed spots to get a 30 car finish with all other
DNQ's getting at least 20 points.
Brenda Cordier of Shellhammers Speedway
announced at the banquet that the Spring Spectacular will be starting later to
give all Saturday night tracks a chance to get their race teams a chance to
make it in time to race without burning the midnight oil to make changes and be
there early.The Spring Spectacular will be held Sunday May 26th with it being a
National and MA Gold Tour show.
Bruce Thomas has banquet photos listed on
www.southjerseydirtracing.com and Tim Krysiuk has them posted on Facebook,if
anyone is interested.
Plenty of time to get your race car and
sponsors out in front of the racing public and casual fan as the Motorsports
and Reading Legends Reunion attract some of the biggest racing crowds in the
area.Also in previous years the Middletown Race Show has been quite the place
to be for seeing what's heading to the speedways come warm weather time.
Engine work currently done for
Nemeth,Durling and Matt Miller.
Thanks,Mike
And this, too:
From the Accord
Opening Night
April 12th
Practice April 5th
For the 2013 Season
Memberships
Season Pit Passes
Reserved Pit Parking
Indoor
Email accordspeedway@yahoo.com
or call 845-626-1142 for further information
More, too:
NEWS FROM…
CONTACT: RON HEDGER, PRESIDENT, 518-885-7481
DINO OBERTO, VICE
PRESIDENT, 570-401-8168 JOHN
SNYDER, MEDIA OFFICE, 845-225-3560
ROBIN ERWIN, WEBMASTER,
robinervin1@comcast.net
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
KESELOWSKI, HEARN, PENSKE,
LARSON, AND ROBINSON EMPA AWARD WINNERS
King of Prussia, PA (Jan.
6)……..NASCAR Sprint Cup champion Brad Keselowski, DIRTcar Modified driver Brett
Hearn, motorsports mogul Roger Penske, rising star Kyle Larson, and racing
journalist and public address announcer Al Robinson received top honors at the
Eastern Motorsport Press Association (EMPA) 2013 NASCAR Hall of Fame Banquet
held during the annual EMPA Convention, January 4-6 at the Crowne Plaza Valley
Forge Hotel in King of Prussia, PA.
Selected by a vote of the
more than 150 members of the EMPA, Keselowski was named the Al Holbert Memorial
National Driver of the year; Hearn chosen the Richie Evans Memorial Nor the ast
Driver of the Year; Penske honored as the T. Wayne Robinson Newsmaker of the
Year for his pivotal role as the head Penske Racing, winning his first NACAR
Sprint Cup title as team owner and taking his NASCAR team from Dodge to Ford
products; Larson was named the John Blewett III Young Guns Award presented by
New England Racing Fuels for his achievements in both NASCAR’s developmental
division and his open-wheel prowess; longtime journalist and announcer
Robinson received the Junie Donlavey
Spirit of the Sport Award for continuing participating in the sport despite
serious medical issues.
Jim and Laura Allebach,
owners of Lucas Wolfe’s car, received the Jerry Reigle Outstanding Contribution
to Sprint Car Racing Award presented by the World of Outlaws.
EMPA members receiving
special recognition included Robin Ervin (Art McHugh Memorial EMPA Service
Award), Steve Barrick (Jim Hunter Memorial Writers Award), Dave Moulthrop and
Todd Dziadosz (Ace Lane Sr. Memorial Photography Award), and Gary Rowe EMPA
President’s Award).
Inducted into the EMPA Hall
of Fame were drivers Tony Siscone and Doug Wolfgang, driver and speedway
operator Stan Friesen, car owners Lou Cicconi Sr. and Ken Tremont Sr., and
track operator Paul Kuhl.
A highlight of the evening
was the awarding of prizes in the organization’s video and broadcasting,
writing, and photography contests.
Winning first place in the American Honda Motor Company/EMPA Video and
Broadcast Contest were Brian Unangst, Broadcast News Segment; Sean Siff,
General Racing Programs; Brian Unangst, Single Event Coverage; Matt Thomas,
Non-Broadcast Single Event; and Mel Thomas, Non-Broadcast General Racing
Winning top honors in the
Pocono Raceway/EMPA Writers Contest were Bill Huneke, Race Report; Jim
Donnelly, Personality Profile; Bruce Bennett, Feature; Herb Anastor, Column;
and Dino Oberto, News Story
Photographers earning first
place recognition in the Brice/NAPA/EMPA Photography Contest included Dave
Dalesandro, Action; Tommy Hein, Action Sequence; Loren Carmen, Crash Action;
Rebecca Eisele, Feature; Paul Arch, Picture Story; Brent Smith, Portrait and Personality;
Bob Yurko, Pure Art; Dick Ayers, Unpublished Color.
Brent Smith captured the
Portfolio of the Year, while Rebecca Eisele won Best in Show. The Janice Brice “Honorable mention” Award
went to Todd Dziadosz.
The EMPA Convention included
press conferences, seminars, presentations by track and racing series
promoters, as well as the video and broadcast, writing, and photography member
contests, social interaction with all types of American motorsports
personalities including Andretti Autosports developmental driver Zach Veach,
and the NASCAR-sponsored Hall of Fame Banquet.
The late Dr. Joseph Mattioli, president of Pocono Raceway and a long
time supporter of EMPA, was honored prior to the Saturday evening’s banquet.
A roundtable seminar on rights,
responsibilities, and legal issues regarding blogs and postings on internet
message boards was led by attorney, judge, and Modified race car driver Richard
Yetter, internet guru Lewis Gruppo, and retired AP motorsports writer/reporter
Mike Harris.
Sponsors of the EMPA
Convention included NASCAR (represented by Tim Sou the rs et al); Dover
International Speedway (Gary Camp); IZOD IndyCar (Kate Guerra); World Racing
Group/DIRTcar (Chris Dolack et al); Pocono Raceway (Bob Pleban), American Honda
Motor Company; and Brice Auto Parts, Inc./NAPA.
At the EMPA Annual Meeting,
Len Sammons, Ron Hedger, and Dave Dalesandro were elected to the Board of
Directors. The Directors the n named
Hedger, president, and Oberto, vice president, and appointed John Snyder, secretary,
and Jeff Gromis, treasurer. Committee
chairs were also appointed.
American Honda Motor
Company/EMPA Video and Broadcast Contest
Broadcast Division
NEWS SEGMENT (1) Brian
Unangst, (2) Sean Siff
GENERAL RACING PROGRAMS (1)
Siff, (2) Unangst, (3) Mike Feltenberger
SINGLE EVENT COVERAGE (1)
Unangst, (2) Siff
Non-Broadcast Division
SINGLE EVENT COVERAGE (1)
Matt Thomas
GENERAL RACING COVERAGE (1)
Mel Thomas, (2) Unangst
Pocono Raceway/EMPA Writers
Contest Award Winners
RACE REPORT (1) Bill Huneke,
(2) Ron Hedger, (3) Dino Oberto
PERSONALITY PROFILE (1) Jim
Donnelly, (2) Len Sammons, (3) Dave Reininger
FEATURE (1) Bruce Bennett,
(2) Toby LaGrange, (3) Robin Ervin
COLUMN (1) Herb Anastor, (2)
JR Kennerup, (#) Matt Noles
NEWS (1) Dino Oberto, (2) John
Snyder, (3) Steve Barrick
Brice’s Auto Parts,
Inc./NAPA/EMPA Photography Contest Award Winners
ACTION (1) Dave Dalesandro,
(2) Pete MacDonald, (3) Pete MacDonald, (Hon. mention) Brent Smith
ACTION SEQUENCE (1) Tommy
Hein, (2) Dave Pratt, (3) Julia Johnson, (Hon. Mention) Dick Ayers and Bill
McGaffin
CRASH ACTION (1) Loren
Carmen, (2) Bruce Bennett, (3) Paul Arch, (Hon. Mention) Mike Petrucci, Todd
Dziadosz, Rick Sweeten
PICTURE STORY (1) Paul Arch,
(2) Paul Arch, (3) Dave Dalesandro, (Hon. Mention) Paul Arch
PORTRAIT AND PERSONALITY (1)
Brent Smith, (2) Dave Pratt, (3) Mike Petrucci, (Hon. Mention) Rick Sweeten and
Rebecca Eisele
FEATURE (1) Rebecca Eisele,
Pete MacDonald, (3) Todd Dziadosz, (Hon. Mention) Dave Pratt, Julia Johnson,
Rebecca Eisele
UNPUBLISHED COLOR (1) Dick
Ayers, Dave Dalesandro, (3) Loren Carmen, (Hon. Mention) Debbie Gastelu
PURE ART (1) Bob Yurko, (2)
Brent Smith, (3) Bob Yurko, (Hon. Mention)
PORTFOLIO OF THE YEAR: Brent
Smith
BEST OF SHOW: Rebecca Eisele
JANICE BRICE “HONORABLE
MENTION” AWARD: Todd Dziadosz
Along with:
XCEL
CHASSIS ANNOUNCES BIGGER PAYOUTS AND THE RELEASE OF THE 2013 SCHEDULE
"Everybody can appreciate a
winner. Xcel Chassis wants to show every driver who attends an Xcel Chassis
modified race that they are appreciated." stated Xcel founder Doug Borger.
You can understand what he means with the release of the 2013 tour race payout
and the season points payout given at the year's end banquet.
The biggest news coming from the
Kunkletown, Pa shop is the money increase and sponsor awards to the top ten in tour points.
As the saying goes "Cash is King" and that's what you'll find in your
envelope. Doug has secured additional incentives with Pyrotech, S&D
Bodylines, Kirkey Seats and Real Wheels to sweeten
the payouts. Factor X
Graffics donated $2000 towards the point fund given to the top ten tour drivers.
The champion will now walk out of the
banquet $2000 richer and a new frame & body kit. This will put the total at
$5300 making it the biggest payout in tour history and it just doesn't stop there.
Pyrotech will supply the second place finisher with a carbon fiber helmet, 2
layer suit, gloves and shoes then add in the
$1600 payout, that makes a $2906 paycheck. $1400 and an engine supplied by Xcel
Chassis brings third place in points a total of $2600. 4th place will take home
a new body supplied by S&D Bodylines and Xcel Chassis and $1200,totaling
$1850, to start the year off. The fifth place will have a total of $1520 with a
set of new rims provided by Real Wheels and $1000 in their pocket. Sixth and
Seventh places will both receive a $250 certificate off of a Kirky race seat
with 6th place bringing $800 home and 7th place a $600 payday. The totals for
sixth place will be $1050 and seventh will be $850. Eighth place receives $400.
Ninth receives $300 and 10th receives $200. Incentives will be announced
shortly for these positions.
"I am pleased on everything that
has come together so early in the season. It started at the year end meeting
held in October. I put together 3 payout options for the drivers that are
running the tour where the
majority vote would decide the payout for the 2013 season. The option that was
decided on will pay more money thru the entire field and includes $25 tow money
to the non qualifiers with a $20 entry fee. The winner will bring home
$355 after the car passes tech and everybody will get a pay envelope at the end
of the night", explained
The 2013 Motorsports Show held at the
Greater Phila.
The most anticipated release over the
winter is the schedule for the 2013 season. Xcel Chassis along with Penn Can
Speedway and Lindas Speedway have released the 600 modified schedule. Penn
Can will host the mighty
modifieds weekly for the first time this season and Lindas Speedway returns for
a third season. Both tracks run under the Xcel Chassis sanction and rules
except for weekly payouts, handicapping and the final points which are decided
by the tracks themselves. The Xcel Chassis tour division will be returning to some favorites and will add
Doug Borger wants to remind everyone
that all cars must be inspected by Xcel Chassis and all motors must be resealed
before opening day. No inspections will be done at any track and any car or
motor not done will not be permitted to race at any Xcel Chassis sanction
event." At the end of 2012, I decided to reseal all the motors. If your
car currently has an old seal on it, you must still have the motor resealed or
you won't be able to race. It's not a matter of you racing then be
disqualified, the car will not be allowed on the track without an inspection
sticker and a new seal. This includes all Xcel Chassis sanctioned events for
the 2013 season. Everybody starts off the year on the same playing field and
it's only fair to the guys that take the time to do it the right way. I tell
everyone to call me and we can set up a time to have it done. Before you know
it, the snow is gone and the season is here." Car owners are also reminded to
register your number for the 2013 season along with updating information. There is no registration fee and
is on a first come first serve basis. You can find the registration form and schedule on the 600 modified
forum board @ xcel600modified.proboards.com and while you're there sign up
to be a member.
Look for 2013 to be a bust out season
for the 600modifieds. Xcel Chassis will have a booth at the Len Sammons 2013
Motorsports Show Jan.
18th thru 20th and the Motorama Show Feb.
16th and 17th. You can visit xcel600modified.proboards.com for the latest updates thru out
the year.
And add:
News from BD Motorsports Media
Media Contact: Brett Deyo - Deyo99H@aol.com or
845.728.2781
For Immediate Release/January 6, 2013
BD Motorsports
Media Sets 2013 Plans for Penn Can and Five Mile Point Specials at
EMPA Convention; Rising Modified Star Mike Mahaney Outlines Benefits of
Entering Southern Tier Specials
KING OF
Mahaney, a 23-year-old rising dirt
Modified star from King Ferry, N.Y., joked about his poor pick while addressing
the media Saturday morning during the Eastern Motorsport Press Association
Convention at the at the Crowne Plaza Philadelphia Valley Forge in King of
Prussia, Pa. EMPA is one of
the largest motorsports media organizations in the nation. The organization
holds the only annual working convention with seminars, press conferences,
workshops and an annual Hall of Fame dinner.
Mahaney, a first time EMPA visitor, spoke
to the more than 100 assembled members of the auto racing press as the BD
Motorsports Media 2013 events at Penn Can (
Penn Can Speedway will host the 'Clash at
the Can' on Tuesday, June 11 (rain date: June 12) and the 'King of the Can' on
Friday, October 18 (rain date: October 20). The sixth edition of the Short Track
SuperNationals is planned for Five Mile Point Speedway on Saturday, October 12
(an open practice is planned for Friday, October 11).
"It's no fun when you go to a track
and draw 99 like I did last year at the Short Track SuperNationals,"
Mahaney said. "But you don't mind when it's the same for everybody. When
you go to those (BD Motorsports Media) races, their slogan is 'No BS. No
Politics.' and that's the way those races are run.
"It doesn't matter if it's me or
anybody else, every driver there gets treated fairly. That goes for the draw
and everything that follows. You can't ask for anything better than that."
Mahaney had perfect attendance at BD Motorsports
Media events last year and has the 2013 dates circled on his calendar.
"The great thing about those races is
you don't have to win to have a good night financially," Mahaney said.
"The races pay back through the field very well. There are always sponsors
and bonus money handed out. You
could have a bad night and still leave with your trip paid for.
"This year at the 'King of the Can'
race I had engine trouble and didn't qualify for the feature. But I still left
the track with a set of bumpers and rubrails from Shiley Fabrication. Going out
and getting those sponsors takes a lot of time and effort but it means so much
to us as racers."
The fourth 'Clash at the Can' 60-lap
big-block/small-block event at Penn Can features a restructured, non top-heavy
purse: a minimum of $5,000 for the winner, $1,500 for fifth, $1,000 for 10th
and $500 to take the green flag.
"I'm really looking forward to that
race," Mahaney said. "For us, we get more excited to race for a
payout like that, where the whole field benefits, rather than
$10,000 to win and you don't break even finishing outside the top five. It's a big deal to keep people coming
back."
The 'Clash at the Can' will feature a Race
of Champions Dirt Modified Tour sanction in '13. Penn Can is one of only three tracks
to host a RoC Dirt Modified event every year since the tour's inception in
2005, joining Five Mile Point and Utica-Rome (N.Y.) speedways.
Again this season, the 'King of the Can'
will be an unsanctioned event paying $5,000 to the winner (minimum) as a 50-lap
headliner for the big-block/small-block Modifieds. The 14th edition of the
'King of the Can' will offer $314 to take the green flag and the winner
will take home a signature 'toilet trophy' that was a huge hit last October.
Five Mile Point Speedway plays host to the
'Working Man's Race' Short Track SuperNationals for the fourth time in the
race's five-year history in '13. The big-block/small-block Modifieds headline
the program in a 50-lap independent event. A number of qualifying events on the American
Racer/Lias Tire 'Road to the SuperNationals' will lead up to the show.
Mahaney, the son of
This season, he'll chase his first
checkered in a BD Motorsports Media event.
"We will be at all of them," he
said. "They aren't easy races to win. Sometimes you get close to 80 cars.
You've got to work hard. The rules are set up so you can go with what you have,
no matter where you race, and be competitive.
"To win one of those races would be a
highlight for me. We'll definitely be trying."
To learn more about BD Motorsports Media
and the 2013 events, visit www.bdmotorsportsmedia.com or "like" BD Motorsports
Media on Facebook.
And also:
News from Friesen-Deyo Promotions – ‘Dirty
Media Contact: Brett Deyo – 845.728.2781
or Deyo99H@aol.com
For Immediate Release/January 6, 2013
Stewart Friesen,
Promoter, Address Auto Racing Media Members at Eastern Motorsport Press
Association, Outlines Plans for First Super DIRTcar Series 'Dirty Jersey 60' at
New
KING OF
On Saturday morning, as part of the annual
Eastern Motorsport Press Association Convention at the Crowne Plaza
Philadelphia Valley Forge in
Friesen, who will co-promote the first
'Dirty Jersey 60' Super DIRTcar Series big-block Modified event at New Egypt
(N.J.) Speedway on Tuesday, June 18 with Brett Deyo (rain date: June 19),
addressed more than 100 media members with a multimedia presentation outlining
the inaugural effort by Friesen-Deyo Promotions.
The 60-lap event marks the return of the
Super DIRTcar Series to New Egypt, a first-class 7/16ths-mile D-shaped
facility, for the first time since 2007. The race will offer Super DIRTcar
Series points and a $6,000 winner's share from a purse totaling $27,500.
"Our sport is missing those 'best of
the best' events that pit DIRTcar drivers like Brett Hearn, Jimmy Phelps, Matt
Sheppard and Billy Dunn against the
"New
Friesen, 29, a Canadian who now resides in
"It can be Brett Hearn versus Billy
Pauch: who is the 'king of
"Some of the newer DIRTcar Series
drivers will be racing at New Egypt for the first time. This race is going to
something pretty special for the fans. What we didn’t know at the time that we
booked this event was the move New
Friesen, who won more headline features
(27) than any other driver in 2012, has a family background of promoters. His late
grandfather Stan, who was inducted into the EMPA Hall of Fame on Saturday
evening, was a pioneering and influential figure not only in his home region of
Western New York and Canada, but across the Northeast. Friesen's father Jamie
and Uncle Joel promote weekly racing at Ransomville (N.Y.)
Friesen's uncle Alex, still regarded as
one of short track racing's brightest minds, was taking the Northeast by storm
prior to his tragic passing in December 1996.
"My family has been involved on the
promotional side of the sport since I can remember," Friesen said.
"I was selling programs for my Uncle Alex when I was just a kid. I've
seen a lot over the years with my grandfather, my Dad and Uncle Alex when he
was going out and leasing tracks to hold special events.
"A lot of what I've been able to
learn can be brought to New Egypt to make this a special show. We are in the
entertainment business and giving the fan's an event - not just a race - is so
important."
Friesen told the press corps that he does
plan to race in the 'Dirty
"I'll strap on my helmet once it's
race time," he said. "New
Next up for Friesen-Deyo Promotions is
Motorsports 2013, the area's largest auto racing trade show, Jan. 18-20 at the
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pa. Hot-off-the-press 'Dirty Jersey
60' apparel designed by Bob Hilbert Sportswear will be available, along with
New Egypt event information. New Egypt 2012 champion Ryan Godown's No. 747 and
the Norm Hansell Motorsports No. 357 will be part of the expansive display in Booths
216-218 and 316-318.
On Saturday at the show, Friesen will
announce the 'Dirty
To learn more about Friesen-Deyo
Promotions or the 'Dirty Jersey 60' long onto www.bdmotorsportsmedia.comor
"like" BD Motorsports Media on Facebook.
About New Egypt
Speedway
Located in New Egypt, N.J.,
New Egypt Speedway features a daylight-quality lighting system and excellent
sightlines from any seat in the house. There are clean, heated restrooms, a
monitored playground area for young fans and restaurant-quality concession
stands serving up a full menu at family style prices. The racy, 7/16ths-mile
clay oval hosts tight, wheel-to-wheel, all-out competition.
About
Friesen-Deyo Promotions
A collaboration between dirt Modified standout driver Stewart Friesen and
special events promoter/motorsports writer Brett Deyo, Friesen-Deyo Promotions
anticipates its first event at New Egypt Speedway in June 2013 with a goal of
additional events in the future.
I
get e-mails:
The second amendment is not
about duck hunting.
Subject: Little known
American Historical Fact
This story was in the VFW
magazine several years ago and I read it.
Hard to believe it happened as I never heard it on the news in 1946.
Ike
IT CAN HAPPEN IN THIS
COUNTRY!!
FUTURE ELECTION CLEAN-UP FOR
This is a true story, made
into a movie. Be sure to look at actual photos after the short movie clip. WHEN
AMERICANS HAVE HAD ENOUGH, CORRUPTION WILL END. this real battle was fought by
WW II veterans and citizens, with experience. They invoked the 2nd Amendment.
Little known American
Historical Fact
I was completely unaware of
this event that took place in
Now the second amendment
should be a little clearer to everyone.
This movie lasts less than
four minutes and is well worth the time.
MOVIE CLIP:
http://voxvocispublicus.homestead.com/Battle-of-Athens.html
Link to actual story: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Athens_(1946)
We read all the jokes and
forward the good ones but I just wonder who will pass this one on.
How about you sending it on
and back to me if you got the guts to do so.
I am and just wonder how many
I will get back?
AND very happy to be of the
1%.
Someone please tell me what
the HELL's wrong with all the people that run this country!!!!!!
Both Republicans & Democrats
We're "broke" and
can't help our own Seniors, Veterans, Orphans, Homeless, etc.,???????????
In the last years we have
provided direct cash aid to:
Hamas - 351 M,
with literally Billions of
Dollars and they still hate us!!!!
Our retired seniors living on
a 'fixed income' receive no aid nor do they get any breaks while our government
and religious organizations
pour Hundreds of Billions of $$$$$$'s and Tons of Food to Foreign Countries!
We have hundreds of adoptable
children who are shoved aside to make room for the adoption of foreign orphans.
AMERICA: a country where we
have homeless without shelter, children going to bed hungry, elderly going without needed
medication and mentally ill
without treatment -etc.
YET.......................
They have a 'Benefit' for the
people of Haiti on 12 TV stations, ships and planes lining up with food, water,
tents clothes, bedding, doctors and medical supplies.
Imagine if the *GOVERNMENT*
gave 'US' the same support they give to other countries.
Sad isn't it?
99% of people won't have the
guts to forward this.
I'm one of the 1% --
I Just Did =
Found on Facebook:
Got my first paycheck
yesterday for the new year n guess what ? I got more taxes taken outta of it
----yaaaaaayeee . Gonna add up to almost 500.00$ a year . Great like I can
afford that :(
The 2013 OCFS Motorsports Show is
scheduled for March 23-24 with set-up being on the 22nd. We will have car entry
forms and vendor forms available in the coming weeks. Anyone interested in
entering a car or setting up a vendor spot please contact us and we will send
you a form as soon as they are ready. We thank everyone for their continued
support and are looking forward to another exciting show.
Some
non-racing stuff:
'The
President is going to act': Joe Biden guarantees Obama will bypass reluctant
Republicans and cement new gun control laws
Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/joe-biden-guarantees-presiden-obama-bypass-reluctant-republicans-cement-new-gun-control-laws-article-1.1237010#ixzz2HXC4agO0
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/judgment-day--steroid-era-dealt-first-big-blow-002553763.html
Note: I expect this to be just the tip of the
iceberg, folks.
Video
time:
Kyle
Larson, after a win this past Tuesday night at the Chili Bowl.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zEe_nbuhQfk
Photos:
Note: The photos are not available on Dirt Track
Digest, only on New England Tractor - http://newenglandtractor.com/racereport/
One of the very
best drivers to have raced in Midgets and later on, at Indy. Bill Vukovich in the Gerhardt # 45 Offy
Midget:
Closing with
these:
TODAY IS THE OLDEST YOU'VE
EVER BEEN,
YET THE YOUNGEST YOU'LL EVER
BE -
SO - ENJOY THIS DAY WHILE IT
LASTS.
~Your kids are becoming
you......but your grandchildren are perfect!
~Going out is good.. Coming
home is better!
~You forget names.... But
it's OK because other people forgot they even knew you!!!
~You realize you're never
going to be really good at anything.... especially Golf.
~The things you used to care
to do, you no longer care to do, but you really do care that you don't care to
do them anymore.
~You sleep better on a lounge
chair with the TV blaring than in bed. It's called "pre-sleep".
~You miss the days when
everything worked with just an "ON" and "OFF" Switch..
~You tend to use more 4
letter words ... "what?"..."when?"... ???
~Now that you can afford
expensive jewelry, it's not safe to wear it anywhere.
~You notice everything they
sell in stores is "sleeveless"?!!!
~What used to be freckles are
now liver spots.
~Everybody whispers.
~You have 3 sizes of clothes
in your closet.... 2 of which you will never wear.
~~~But Old is good in some
things: Old songs, Old movies, and best of all, OLD FRIENDS!!
Wishing all race
fans, drivers, teams, team owners and sponsors to remain safe and out of harms
way!
As usual, you can reach me
at: ygordad@yahoo.com