Racin' Stuff:

By Tom Avenengo

 

 

First things, first:

 

There was a thread on the Track Forum that lead to another thread about The Uninsured/Underinsured (race) Driver.  So, I thought I’d search through my columns to find something I had about insurance, and someone that insures a lot of those that are involved in motor sports.  I found it in my February 25th column.

 

“Go back a few weeks to the Chili Bowl midget races.  Do you remember about Tim McCreadie having that bad accident, and the stories about him having no insurance?  Yes, in today’s world, even though one should attempt to protect oneself from any kind of financial hardship, it seems that insurance, due to it’s high cost – in most cases, doesn’t rank up high on the ladder of what we really need.  Keep in mind now, this is not insurance for your car that I’m talking about – that’s something that you really do need, although there are some idiots out there, driving around, without it.  In a lot of cases, many have dropped insurance on their homes – as long as their mortgage is paid up, due to the ever-increasing cost of home insurance.

The other day, I came across something on the Micro Sprint website, about insurance for race drivers.  No, it is not for all race drivers.  Those that race Karts, cycles, four wheelers and snowmobiles are not covered.   If you’re a racer, do you have any idea as to what kind of insurance the track (tracks) you race at might have, and how much insurance, dollar wise?  You might want to find out, especially if you’re a racer and have an accident, and have to be given a ride in a helicopter to a “Crash house”.  Any idea how much that cost?  You don’t want to know!  I did read where someone had to be transported from the first turn on a racetrack to the backstretch where he was transferred to a helicopter.  That ambulance ride cost him $800.00!

Now suppose I’m able to lead you to someone that offers this, below, might you be interested?

Each member will receive $10,000 in accidental death and dismemberment coverage, which is good at the track during the racing event.

Each member will have $250,000 in excess medical coverage which is good when you are racing anywhere in the United States with a two year benefit period. There is a  $15,000 deductible for this policy. Make sure the track you are racing at has at least $15,000 in insurance coverage.

And, also do this:

We have setup discount packages for all members with safety equipment manufactures. The discounts range from 20 to 25% with Simpson, Bell, and Ultrashield. You can also get a discount on head and neck systems from Safety Solutions. They offer a 10% discount on their product courtesy of ShoestringRacing.com

We will act as an information-clearing house to research and find out any information that may be hard to obtain.

We will send out bulletins as needed to keep you up to date on concerns in short track racing.

Most of all we will be here to serve the needs of the short track racer. We are certain that there will be many other areas of concern that we can help the short track racer with in the future.

Yes, there are some restrictions:

All insurable classes must have seat belts and roll over protection. No age limit on customers (quarter midgets, micros, midgets, ect.)

Insurance coverage is only available in the United States of America. Coverage is not only for drivers but also for crew members and officials are also welcome

Ok, now maybe you’re interested, right?  So, who does this?  Well, here is how you can find out, for yourself, about this insurance.  Just go here:  http://www.stida.com/”

 

Oh yes, that link:  http://www.suntimes.com/sports/autoracing/1651477,CST-SPT-carplug05.article

 

 

Some of my thoughts – part I:

In my way of thinking, one of the reasons that the Indy cars have gone down hill so much is a lack of TV exposure.  This coming weekend is a classic example – they race in Toronto on Sunday, and the race is televised on ABC from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM, here on the east coast.

I watched about 10 seconds of the Indy car race from Watkins Glen this past Sunday – I think it was maybe around the second lap.  “Progress” if that’s what you can call it, has ruined the sport of Indy car racing, as far as I’m concerned.  And the lack of ‘merican drivers doesn’t help any, either.  Oh, and another thing, wait until you get further down in this weeks column to see just what is forbidden to take with you if you attend the Toronto race.  Unbelievable! 

Meanwhile, look at what NASCAR has going as far as TV this weekend:

Both Nationwide and Cup are on TV multiple times on Thursday and Friday, with the Nationwide race on Friday night.  Saturday it’s the Cup race – at night – something that every short track promoter in the country must surely love.  Check out the percentages of American drivers versus foreign drivers in NASCAR.  See?  And, on top of that, there are occasions when some of the top NASCAR drivers do run at local tracks – something completely unheard of with today’s Indy car drivers.

 

Some of my thoughts – part II:

Have you ever heard of “Revolution Racing Engines”?  They’re out in San Miguel, California.  I found out about them when I visited the ARDC’s message board.  They make a “Chevy” midget engine that cost less than $10,000.00 – complete.  I’ve said, many, many times, that the high cost of midget engines is what has really hurt the sport.  Engines running three to four times that $10,000.00 figure have been out there – and to race for what I consider small purses.  Just how they might compete against the “big buck” engines remains to be seen.  Still, maybe it’s what might be needed to give midget racing a kick start in getting more competitors into the sport.  I, personally, will be interested in seeing how the members of the ARDC respond about this engine on their message board.  Maybe, just maybe, with a cheaper engine and more owners/drivers coming into the ARDC, they can enlarge their schedule some?  That would be nice.  Or – maybe a second “class”?  Heck, NEMA has what they are calling NEMA “lights” now, with what I believe uses Ford Focus and Quad 4 midgets?

 

The website for Revolution Racing Engines:  http://www.revolutionracingengines.com/Welcome%20.html

 

 

Going back, in time:

 

On July 9th, in:

 

1950

Troy Ruttman won the AAA Sprint Car race at the Dayton Speedway, Dayton, OH.

 

1952

Johnnie Tolan won the AAA Midget race at the Springfield Speedway, Springfield,IL.

 

1955

Dutch Schaefer won the ARDC Midget race at the Dexter Park Speedway, Queens,NY.

 

1959

Don Branson won the 50 lap USAC Midget race at the Macon Speedway, Macon, IL.

 

1967

Richard Petty, outdueling Darel Dieringer in a race long battle, drove his Plymouth to victory in the NASCAR Grand National 'Northern 300' on the 1 mile paved Trenton Speedway in Trenton, NJ. The crowd of 19,500 was thrilled for most of the race as Petty and Dieringer dueled for the lead in heavy traffic. The lead swapped 8 times among Petty, Dieringer and Jim Paschal, with Paschal leading for only 1 lap. Petty took the lead for good on lap 254 and led the rest of the way, crossing the line 28 seconds ahead of Dieringer's Junior Johnson Ford. Paschal wound up 3rd, 3 laps back in the Tommy Friedkin Plymouth. It was Petty's 61st career GN win.

 

1972

Dave Humphrey won the NEMA Midget race at the Monadnock Speedway, Winchester, NH.

 

Jan Opperman won the Johnny Roberts Memorial Super Sprint Car race at the Hagerstown Speedway , Hagerstown,MD. Bobby Allen was second followed by Smokey Snellbaker, Irvin King and Elmer Ruby.

 

Tom Spriggle won the Super Sprint Car race at the Susquehanna Speedway, Newberrytown, PA. Paul Pitzer was second followed by David James, Kramer Williamson and Rick Schmelyun.

 

1974

Steve Smith won the KARS Super Sprint Car race at the Penn National Speedway, Grantville,PA. Lynn Paxton was second followed by Bobby Allen, Smokey Snellbaker and Paul Pitzer.

 

1976

Kramer Williamson won the KARS Super Sprint Car race at the Williams Grove Speedway, Williams Grove,PA. Jim Sheaffer was second followed by Bobby Allen, Steve Smith and Smokey Snellbaker.

 

Steve Kinser won the Sprint Car race at the Bloomington Speedway, Bloomington,IN.

 

1977

Buck Buckley won the URC Sprint Car race at the Jennerstown Speedway, Jennerstown,PA. Gus Linder was second followed by Ed Lynch, Charlie Svetec and Bill Force.

 

Kenny Weld won the Super Sprint Car race over Van May, Dub May, Doug Stambaugh and Larry Krimes at the Lincoln Speedway, Hanover,PA.

 

Mitch Smith won the Super Sprint Car race over Keith Kauffman, Lynn Paxton, Jay Myers and Gary Howsare at the Port Royal Speedway, Port Royal,PA.

 

Lennie Boyd won the ARDC Midget race at the New Egypt Speedway, New Egypt,NJ.

 

Ralph Quarterson won the Sprint Car race over Lou Blaney, Steve Travers, Johnny Lewis and Ed Murphy at the Mercer Raceway Park, Mercer,PA.

 

 

1978

Billy Hughes won the ARDC Midget race over Bob Cicconi, Hank Rogers Jr, P.J. Roberts and Nick Fornoro Jr. at the Grandview Speedway, Bechtelsville,PA.

 

Keith Kauffman won the Super Sprint Car race at the Susquehanna Speedway, Newberrytown,PA. Steve Smith was second followed by Bobby Allen, Dub May and Doug Stambaugh.

 

1982

Nick Fornoro, Jr. won the ARDC Midget race over Drew Fornoro, Leigh Earnshaw, Ros Triol and Guy Cicconi at the Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Malta,NY.

 

Dave Kelly won the URC Sprint Car race at the Bedford Speedway, Bedford,PA. Kevin Collins was second followed by Charlie Massey, Ed Wylie and Bobby Wilkins.

 

1983

Drew Fornoro won the NEMA Midget race at the Star Speedway, Epping,NH.

 

1995

Jeff Gordon won the NASCAR Winston Cup Slick 50 300 over Morgan Shepherd at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH.

 

2000

Joe Sostilio ... Died ... Sostilio raced both sprint cars and midgets. He won the New England Dirt Championship in 1935, 1936 and 1938. He also won the Bay State Midget Racing Association Championship in 1947 and Eastern Sprint Car Championship in 1953. In 1949, he turned to Stock Car racing but still continued in open wheel racing. Between 1948 and 1950 Joe won seven races in AAA competition as teammate to Johnnie Parsons. Joe was 5th in the AAA Eastern Sprint Car Championship in 1952, he beat Tommy Hinnershitz to the title in 1953 and finished 6th in 1954. His best finishes on the Champ Car circuit were a 7th at Langhorne Speedway and another 7th at Darlington Speedway in 1954.

 

Tony Stewart won the NASCAR Winston Cup thatlook.com 300 over Joe Nemechek at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH.

 

 

Coming up in the near future:

 

Don’t forget, that at OCFS on July 11th, they’ll have another “Nostalgia Night” where drivers from the past come to meet and talk with the fans, plus autograph most anything that the fans bring with them.  I know that Buzzie Reutimann is due up from Florida.  It’s been posted that Buzzie will have a big block modified ride for the night. 

Some others are:

Gerald Chamberlain, Bobby Bottcher, Hank Goranson,  Billy Osmun, Dickie Keiper, Tom Hager,  Kenny Brightbill, Jackie Wilson, Russ Meyer, Beverly Pierce, Charlie Castle, Robbie Green, Charley Shire, Frankie Schneider, Greg Chelak, Eddie Yonkers and Eric Koster – to name a few.  It’s being said that there will be about 50 drivers from back in “The Day” that will be at OC.  Also on tap that night are the restored racecars of the Atlantic Coast Old Timers (ACOT), and the Vintage Modifieds.

 

And, the night before, on Friday, July 10th, at the Accord Speedway, both ACOT and the ARDC midgets will be in attendance.  I’m just hoping that with the ARDC having a race at Williams Grove on Saturday, that it won’t affect the car count for Accord.

 

Note # 1:  Per an article in the Wednesday edition of the Middletown Times Herald-Record, there’s now a chance that Buzzie might not be able to race at OC due to back problems.

http://www.recordonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?Category=SPORTS

 

Note # 2:  There is a thread on the South Jersey Dirt Racing forum regarding Tom Hager and some problems he’s had.  My reading those posts leads me to think that maybe Tom might not make it to OC this coming Saturday.

 

 

Racing on TV:

Check out what’s on TV, racing wise, here:  http://www.racefantv.com/USTV.htm

Check out “Some of my thoughts” above on this coming weeks TV coverages.

 

 

Other forums/message boards and websites:

 

From the Track Forum - http://www.trackforum.com/forums/

Really, now, this isn’t a joke?

Prohibited Items List

· Coolers (includes food and

beverage)

· Glass Containers

· Illegal Drugs

· Fires, Grills, Fireworks

· Firearms, knives, explosives or

weapons of any description are not

permitted unless in the possession

of a duly authorized law

enforcement officer

· No flammable or combustible

materials except small lighters (for

cigarettes)

· Personal protection devices

(mace/pepper spray)

· Folding Chairs

· Pets (except service animals

assisting those with disabilities)

· Scaffolding and other structures

· Noise Makers, Horns, Helium

Balloons, Beach Balls

· Banners

· Camcorders

· Camera lenses that exceed 10’’

· Aerosol cans

· Glass Bottles

· Inflatables (beach balls, etc.)

· Items that obstruct views

· Roller blades, skateboards, skates,

scooters, bicycles

· Golf carts for personal use

· Motorcycles or off-road vehicles

(including ATVs, ATCs, dune bug

bicycles)

· Handbills or samples are not to be

distributed or placed on the grounds

without the express written approval

of the Honda Indy Toronto

· Other items that are deemed

hazardous or diminish the

enjoyment of the event by other

patrons

· Laser lights and pointers

· Poles or sticks (except those to

assist the disabled)

· Projectile items and missiles

· Skates, skateboards and all cycles

· Laptop computers

· Large bags including but not

limited to: Duffel and grocery bags,

luggage

 

Believe it or not, the above is the list for the Indycar race at Toronto.  Oh, you don’t believe me?  Check it out, here:

http://www.trackforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=125716

 

And some more real good stuff can be seen if you go to this thread, below.  You’d be surprised what a friend of mine has to say about “Security” at Daytona, plus his comments on other things at Daytona..

http://www.trackforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=125626

 

 

From Jayski - http://www.jayski.com/

 

As usual, Jayski does have links to many, many articles, and they can be found if you go here:

 

http://www.jayski.com/pages/stories.htm

 

 

MWR to make announcement on July 7th? UPDATE 3: Truex: On Friday Rowdy.com visited Michael Waltrip Racing [Cornelius, NC] which offers an amazing tour of the facility, including the fabricating shop. Even more interesting than the tour itself was this tidbit...someone in our group was asking how Ryan and Martin Truex Jr. (brothers) were related. Somehow this led to our tour guide telling us that Michael Waltrip Racing would be making a MAJOR announcement on July 7th.(Rowdy.com)(6-27-2009)
UPDATE: Earnhardt Ganassi Racing President Steve Lauletta said no matter what happens with Martin Truex Jr., he expects Bass Pro Shops will remain with the organization for 2010. Truex, who drives for EGR, is expected to be announced as the 2010 full-time replacement for Michael Waltrip at Michael Waltrip Racing on July 7.(SceneDaily)(6-28-2009)
UPDATE 2: Martin Truex Jr. will be named on Tuesday the newest addition to Michael Waltrip Racing, multiple sources confirmed on Saturday at Daytona. A press conference including sponsor NAPA is scheduled for noon at the team's Cornelius, N.C., shop. Truex is in the final year of his contract with Earnhardt Ganassi Racing. NAPA, the long-time sponsor of team owner Michael Waltrip, will be become his primary sponsor. Waltrip will move from a full-time to part-time schedule that will include the Daytona 500 in February. He could remain in his familiar #55 with Truex taking another number, possibly the #56.(ESPN.com)(7-5-2009)
UPDATE 3: A driving career that has spanned a quarter of a century, defined by two emotional winning performances on NASCAR's biggest stage, will be celebrated during the 2010 Daytona 500. Michael Waltrip, a two-time Daytona 500 champion, announced that he will drive a limited schedule beginning next season as he begins to focus on being one of the youngest multi-team owners in the history of NASCAR.(MWR PR)
AND: Michael Waltrip Racing (MWR) announced that NAPA Auto Parts has signed a multi-year contract to continue its primary sponsorship with the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series organization, and has named two-time Nationwide Series champion and 2007 Chase participant Martin Truex, Jr. as its driver. Starting in 2010, the car number on the NAPA Auto Parts Toyota will be the #56, a number that has been in the Truex racing family for three generations. MWR co-owner Michael Waltrip, the only full-time driver NAPA has had since joining the Sprint Cup division in 2001, will drive a limited schedule, to include the 2010 Daytona 500 driving the #55 NAPA Auto Parts Toyota - an event in which Waltrip and NAPA have shared two memorable victories. Waltrip will retain the number 55. The owner points earned during the 2009 Sprint Cup campaign will be transferred to Truex's full-time effort.(MWR PR) (7-7-2009)

 

Note:  In a way, I hope this doesn’t hurt Truex as far as the rest of this season goes, with some not so good cars.

 

NASCAR appeals judge's decision on Mayfield: NASCAR has asked a federal judge to reverse his ruling and keep driver Jeremy Mayfield off the track. NASCAR filed the motion asking U.S. District Court Judge Graham Mullen to reinstate Mayfield's ban. The latest twist comes after Mullen's decision last week to grant an injunction clearing him to compete. Mullen said the chance of a false positive on his drug test was "quite substantial." NASCAR disputes Mullen's conclusion, and says Mayfield poses a threat to public safety. NASCAR also filed a notice saying it plans to bring the case before a federal appeals court.(Associated Press), for more information about Mayfield's supension and lawsuit, see the NASCAR drug policy page.(7-6-2009)

 

UPDATE: NASCAR on Wednesday asked an appeals court to ban Jeremy Mayfield from racing, alleging the participation of "a proven methamphetamine user" could lead to fatal consequences for other competitors and fans. NASCAR asked the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to overturn last week's injunction that lifted Mayfield's indefinite suspension for a failing a random drug test. In the filing, NASCAR argues U.S. District Court Judge Graham Mullen relied on incorrect information when he lifted the suspension. If allowed on the track, NASCAR believes Mayfield poses a dangerous threat.(Associated Press)(7-8-2009)

 

UPDATE 2: Mayfield attorney John Buric scoffed at the idea Mayfield is a potential danger and revealed the driver was tested twice Monday - once at an independent laboratory and once at his home by NASCAR. "He's not a danger, and they have the right to test him anytime to find that out," Buric said. "In fact, they did test him on Monday night at his home. A group of people went to his home and watched him pee in a cup. It was humiliating." NASCAR's appeal did not mention the most recent random test, but spokesman Ramsey Poston confirmed Mayfield was tested Monday evening. But Buric and NASCAR differed on what exactly happened during the seven-plus hours after Mayfield was asked to report for testing. Even though Mayfield has been cleared to race, Buric said he doubted the driver will be in Chicago for this weekend's event. Mayfield has until Thursday afternoon to enter his Mayfield Motorsports' car or find another team owner willing to hire him for the event. "As of right now, he does not have any sponsors, he does not have anyone asking him to drive," Buric said. "His career is all but ruined unless someone gives him a chance. But people are treating him like a pariah. We thought the injunction was an important factor in getting him back on track. As it appears to be turning out, having accomplished that doesn't at all get him what he really wants: getting back in a car going around the track."(Associated Press)(7-8-2009)

 

Mayfield not on Chicago entry list: NASCAR driver #41-Jeremy Mayfield's name isn't on the entry list for Saturday's race at Chicagoland Speedway. Mayfield, whose drug suspension was overturned by a federal judge last week, still could attempt to qualify for the race. Under NASCAR rules, teams have until one hour before the first practice to register. That gives Mayfield until Thursday afternoon, but he would have to pay a penalty. Mayfield admitted in court filings that his Mayfield Motorsports team is struggling financially. He also could make the race if hired to drive for another team.(Associated Press/ESPN.com), see my Chicago Entry List page for the current entries.(7-6-2009)

Mayfield releases letter; hopes to be a Chicago:
To all my fans, friends and fellow competitors:
First and foremost, Shana and I want to thank all of you who have supported us. To say that the last two months have been two of the worst months of my entire life is an understatement. The only event I can think of that brought me even greater pain was the loss of my father in 2007.
Last Wednesday's ruling by Judge Mullen was a giant step towards clearing my name and getting the 41 car back on the track. Our hope was to bring our team to Daytona this weekend to qualify and race in the Coke Zero 400. For those who know me well, there is nothing in the world that I would rather do than race for you all on the 4th of July. Following Judge Mullen's ruling, we had less than twenty-four hours to prepare the car, assemble a team, get sponsorship and travel to Daytona. Ultimately, we were unable to get this done in time. We've received several phone calls from friends and fans as well as friends in the media wondering if we would be coming to Daytona this weekend, anyway. We've decided that our time is best spent back here in North Carolina working around the clock to try and secure the funding needed to get the 41 car to Chicago and beyond. Shana and I as well as everyone at Mayfield Motorsports will do everything in our power to race next weekend.
Finally, we've been watching on television and reading online about the "Storm Clouds Over Daytona" and the "Mayfield Media Circus." Honestly, this is the last thing Shana or I want for anybody. This weekend shouldn't be about a questionable drug test or a flawed drug testing system. It should be about celebrating our country, the greatest country in the world. So, enjoy the weekend with your friends and family, and have a very happy Independence Day. We look forward to seeing you all at the track very soon.
Thanks again for keeping us in your hearts and prayers.
Jeremy and Shana Mayfield
(Mayfield PR)(7-4-2009)

 

Note:  What can one really say about this?  Surely NASCAR will attempt to try to keep Mayyfield off the track, and if and when he might appear, to race, he can forget about being looked at with a magnifying glass.  Try a microscope.  It’s been said, on the internet, that NASCAR is picking on the small guys and I tend to agree.  Eventually they will end up with what they want – a few owners with 4 car teams and they’ll possibly be franchised.

 

Petty working with Chrysler on debt; Kahne in Toyota in Nationwide next year: Chrysler is working on a deal to pay off some of its debt to Richard Petty Motorsports [#9, #19, #43, #44] , co-owner Richard Petty said on Friday at Daytona International Speedway. Petty said last month that Chrysler's bankruptcy put cash flow from the manufacturer to the organization on hold. The subsequent layoff of nine RPM employees also was blamed on anticipated cuts from the bankruptcy. "They've stopped everything,'' he said of Chrysler's support. Petty said on Friday that RPM should expect some money soon. "Yeah, we'll get some money from them,'' he said. "Right now we're in the process of figuring out exactly what they can do to get back to us to see what we can do." Petty's initial comments increased speculation that RPM may leave Dodge for Toyota after this season. The organization is in the final year of its contract and has partnered with Toyota's Braun Racing for five Nationwide Series races in 2009.(ESPN.com)
AND: Braun Racing [Nationwide Series team] announced that Great Clips, Inc., will return for another three seasons to sponsor the #38 Toyota in the NASCAR Nationwide Series. Jason Leffler will pilot the #38 Great Clips Camry for 27 of the 35 scheduled races while Kasey Kahne will drive the #38 in the remaining eight races.(Braun Racing PR)(7-4-2009)

 

Note:  I find it strange that Leffler is being replaced in those selected races.  I can see a switch to Toyotoa too, by the Petty organization.

 

Stewart say Goodyear has solved Indy tire problems: Two-time Allstate 400 winner #14-Tony Stewart says he's confident Goodyear has solved the tire problems that plagued last year's race at the Brickyard. Stewart was among the drivers who participated in Goodyear's seven test sessions at the track since last year, when the problems turned the race into a series of 10- to 12-lap sprints. Stewart says he was able to run about 30 laps on the new tires during the tests and he's "not at all" concerned about their durability. (Associated Press)(7-8-2009)

 

Note:  For Tony’s sake, I hope that Goodyear has come up with an acceptable tire.  Remember what he said, previously, about Goodyear and their tires?

 

 

 

Dirt Track Digest’s forum:  http://www.dirttrackdigest.com/forum/index.php?

 

If you don’t frequent the DTD’s forum, might I suggest you do, and check out what’s being said about two tracks – Albany/Saratoga and Devil’s Bowl, both going from a dirt surface to asphalt.  It can be seen, here:

 

http://www.dirttrackdigest.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=30172

 

And, speaking of dirt/asphalt, there’s another thread about running dirt cars on pavement – again, and some interesting thoughts being voiced on that.  Check it out, here:

 

http://www.dirttrackdigest.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=29238

 

 

OCFS - http://www.orangecountyfairspeedway.net/

 

I’m happy to report that OCFS did get their racing show in last Saturday.  As for this coming Saturday, along with it being “Nostalgia Night”, there is also this, from the OC website:

“In addition, the track’s super competitive Modified drivers will be racing for a special incentive as a separate set of points from this week’s feature race will be combined with points from the July 4 race met to determine the Modified King of the Track. The top point man will win a $1,000 bonus from a $3,000 jackpot, with cash awards also going to the remaining top-five point finishers. Long-time Orange County Fair Speedway supporter Richie Plant established the Modified King of the Track jackpot.”
Here is how they finished on July 4th:

1.  73 Rick Mill

2.  33 1/3 Tommy Meier

3.  J17 Jeff Heotzler

4.  59J Jesse Kline

5.  88 Steve Dodd

6.  1H Tim Hindley

7.  79 Jeremy Markle

8.  21M Bob McGannon

9.  21jr Gary Edwards Jr.

10.  673 Mitch Gibbs

11.  59 Bruce Kline

12.  19 Chuck McKee

13.  93X Craig Mitchell

14.  11 Danny Creeden

15.  71 David Van Horn

16.  47 Jerry Higbie

17.  53M Joe Morel

18.  24 Chris Shultz

19.  7K Kirk Horton

20.  82P Joe Puzzella

21.  53 Ric Hill

22.  12X Bryant Brown

23.  21 Clinton Mills

24.  244 Chris Whitehead

25.  85 Mike Kolka

 

And what has happened to a couple of classes at OC?  The Pro Stocks had 13 cars and the “Veteran” Pure Stocks had only 5?  Is the economy at fault?oint man will win a $1,000 bonus from a $3,000

 

Bethel Motor Speedway:  http://www.bethelmotorspeedway.com/BethelMotorSpeedway/HomePage.html

Scheduled this week are the All Star Race Trucks, Modifieds, Dirt Sportsman, Pro Stocks, Street Stocks and 4 cylinders.

 

 

 

Hamlin Speedway:  http://www.hamlinspeedway.com/

On tap for this week:

 

Senior Kart Special - "Stock HEAVY Challenge"

 

$500 to win! Minimum 20 karts with $30 Entry Fee

 

PLUS Super Slinger Makeup Feature from 5/16

 

All Divisions Racing

 

Please Note: Briggs Stock Light Drivers

 

If 20 Stock Lights show up to race, Purse will be increased. . . . . . .

 

 

 

Accord - http://www.accordspeedway.com/

This week, at the “Big A”:

July 10th
ARDC Midgets
Acot Midgets
Sponsored by
Rhinebeck Ford
Modifieds $2000 to win
+ all other divisions

This week's bonus $$ sponsor -
Modified - Cryo Weld

Spectator Gates open at 5:00 Pit Gates open at 4:30
Special Show Admission
Adults $20 Kids $3 (11 and under)
Family 4 Pack-
2 Adults 2 Kids + $20 in food vouchers for $56

 

Note:  If you’re a Danny Johnson fan, I’ve read (on the internet) that there is a chance that he will be at Accord, rather than go to Canada for the SDS race.  And, also via the internet – Billy Pauch, Sr. might also come up to the “Big A” to run his small block.


 

In a press release this past Tuesday, there is mention of Ken Brenn, Sr., who will be the nights “Grand Marshall” - who along with Jimmy Maguire and Dick Briggs (who was the mechanic for Ken Brenn), will also be in attendance at the “Big A”.

 

OVRP’s Dirt Oval - http://www.ovrpdirtoval.com/

Nothing to report from the Dirt Oval this week since they were closed these last two weeks.  A regular show is on tap for this coming Saturday.

 

 

Former OVRP Dirt Oval runners:

 

In the SDS race at Fulton, Michael Storm was 14th.  At the SDS race at Ransomville, he was 12th.

At Stafford, David Webb was 3rd and Lauren Cooper 19th in the SK Light feature.

At New Egypt, Johnny Guarino was 18thin the modified feature.

At Selinsgrove, in the sprint car main, Davie Franek was 11th.

At Sundance Vacation Speedway, Nick Pecko was 11th in the asphalt modified feature.

At Lanco, in the 600 modifieds, Brad Szulewski was 13th, while Geordan Farry was a DNQ.

At Accord, in the modified feature, Greg Hastie was22nd.  In the Spec Sportsman feature, Anthony Perrego was 4th, Matt Hitchcock 8th and Jason Roe 15th.  In the Sportsman feature, Brian Krummel was 4th, Clinton Mills 18th, Mike Ruggiero 19th and Keith Leonard 20th.

At OCFS, in the held over modified main, Danny Creeden was 8th and Clinton Mills 24th.  In the second feature, Danny was 14th and Clinton 23rd.  In the Sportsman feature, Doc Young was 1st, Anthony Perrego 2nd, Mike Ruggiero 5th, Rich Coons 8th, Joe Conklin 9th, Matt Hitchcock 12th, Bobby Hassenmayer 19th and Matt Janiak 23rd.

At Hamlin, Rick Casario was 3rd in the 270 Micro feature.  In the wingless 600 Micro feature, Molly Chambers was 20th and Caitlin, her sister was 22nd.  In the 100 lap Slingshot race, Kayla Smykla was 8th, Joseph Kata 12th and RJ Smykla 13th.  From what I have heard, Emily VanInwegen was a DNQ

At Lebanon Valley, in the Sportsman feature, Kyle Armstrong was 6th and Kolby Schroder 22nd.

In 600 modifieds, I had a hard time finding results, and have found none as of 9:30 PM on Wednesday night.  Through some little investigating I got some info - from grandson Brett - on Brad Szulewski.  At Five Mile point, on Saturday, Brad was 6th.  At Thunder Mountain, on Sunday, he was a DNF.  No idea as to how Geordan Farry might have done, since she also runs in that class.

Up at Devils Bowl, with the CRSA 305 sprinters, Anthony Brennan was 6th, Check Alessi was 11th.  Billy VanInwegen was a DNS, and quite a sad story that was, as to why he didn’t run the feature.  Some major drive-line problems came up, and just when they thought they had everything solved, they found out they had to replace the rear, too.  Jeremy Quick had a spare, and they proceeded in putting it in the car.  They missed the feature by about 5 minutes.  Funny, but right after the 305 feature, there was a rather lengthy “intermission” – maybe as long as 45 minutes?  Go figure.

 

Note:  What I find to be rather upsetting is that the racetracks, or organizations, can’t get their websites up to date as far as race results go, even by Wednesday after they raced on a Friday or Saturday the week before.  Also, quite a few drivers’ websites haven’t been updated for the 2009 season.  Wonder why?

 

 

Family members in racing:

 

Nothing to report on about grandson John Rizzo and his racing down at the Charlotte County track in Punta Gorda, Florida.  I did see that his class, the “Pro 4” wasn’t scheduled to run last Saturday.

As for grandson Brett, well we finally can say we got out first (full) race of the season in.  It was quite an eventful night, to say the least.  “Rusty” would be the word to describe Brett.  As for the car, itself, and the engine my son rebuilt, well, it was just as fast, if not faster than what it was, previously.  A slight problem came up in the heat – the fuel pump quit.  Special thanks have to go out to Sean Stolz, who loaned us a fuel pump so we could run the feature.  Brett started 25th and had worked his way up to 16th.  An on tack skirmish put him back to the rear, and he started working his way back towards the front.  However, when he was in that skirmish, something happened that “moved” the steering wheel.  During a yellow, Brett stopped to re-adjust it.  And, during another yellow, he did the same thing.  At GVAT, that’s a “no-no” – stopping on the track three times gets you to park your car in the pits.  When he pulled off, there were 20 cars left on the track so it looks like he had a 21st place finish.  A new front bumper is needed, and that made on Tuesday by Hig-Fab – Jerry Higbies’ business.  A new fuel pump has to be ordered.  It’s doubtful that we’ll be racing this coming weekend, and as for the 18th, that’s up in the air, too, since there will be a graduation party for Brett (High School) and his sister, Samantha (College) on that day.  However, it looks like our next race might very well be at Hamlin, and wingless.

 

Other racin’ stuff:

This coming October 16th, 17th and 18th are the dates for the annual Eastern States Weekend.  Now, keep in mind – OCFS is an independent track for the 2009 season.  What kind of problems might come up because of that?  I can think of a few. 

How about tires?  OC has a specially stamped American Racer tire.  Will that be the only tire allowed at ESW for the classes that run them?  How about American Racer tires from other tracks – like maybe Accord or even New Egypt?  If those tires were allowed, might it help increase the car counts?  Might there be an “Open” tire rule?

How about the Sportsman class?  Will the 2009 rules apply?  Rules like:

Open Engine:  Steel wheels and must weigh 2550 lbs

Crate engine:  Aluminum wheels are optional, must weigh 2350 lbs

No Rev limiter box required

No midget rear ends.

Rules for OCFS can be found if you go here:

http://www.orangecountyfairspeedway.net/09-News/09-rules.html

 

The small block race, up to a couple of years ago was over the 150 lap distance.  Can it be returned to that? 

How about a return of the Barbara/Neil Luce Memorial race on ESW?

The CRSA 305 sprint cars are listed on the entry forms.  Is there much of a difference between the CRSA cars and the 305’s that race in Pa.?  I’ve heard that the CRSA event might be a Friday/Saturday deal.  What might be on Friday – time trials?  Heats?  What might be the amount of laps for their feature?  Just when might they run on Saturday?

 

I’d love to see a race for the top 12 qualifiers for the ESW 200 that would be, say, over 10 laps in distance, but would require a pit stop – under green flag conditions, for the changing of a left rear tire.  This was done quite a few years ago and was a rousing success, until Doug Hoffman stopped on turn two, to bring out a yellow, which completely screwed up the race.  That race almost wasn’t held because of good old “Mother Nature”.  The track was gong to scrap it, but the drivers all came forward and wanted to run the race anyway – kind of a “my crew is better than your crew kind of mentality”, I suppose?  You just know that when you pit, you will lose a lap, but everyone is in the same boat.  With transponders being used today, there really shouldn’t be much of a scoring problem.

 

 

More racin’ stuff:

I first found out about this on the Track Forum, but what’s below was on Jayski’s website:

Wheldon giving Earnhardt Jr. IndyCar Two-Seater Ride at IMS: Two of the National Guard's biggest racing stars will be sharing a ride in an IndyCar this Thursday when Panther Racing driver, and former Indianapolis 500 winner, Dan Wheldon will give NASCAR Sprint Cup star #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr. a ride in the Indy Racing Experience two-seater at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Earnhardt Jr. is in Indianapolis to promote the upcoming July 26th Allstate 400 at the Brickyard and Wheldon is traveling to Canada immediately after Thursday's event for the Honda Indy Toronto IndyCar Series race, which will be held on Sunday. Earnhardt will also turn laps in the historic #16 Noc-Out Hose Clamp Special that Mauri Rose and Floyd David co-drove to victory in the 1941 Indianapolis 500.(Panther Racing PR)(7-8-2009)

 

Note # 1:  There are some things being said about this on the Track Forum, and they can be seen, here:

 

http://www.trackforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=125730

 

Note # 2:  Sure hope they don’t crash!

 

The History of the Sport:

 

At times, we’ve lost drivers while they were competing on the speedways.  Here, below, is just a small, partial list of those that have perished while doing what they loved to do - alphabetically from “A” throuogh “F”.  I imagine that you might recognize some of the names listed.   Later on, in future columns, I’ll continue my way through the alphabet.

 

Grant Adcox, Blaise Alexander, Clifford Allison, George Amick, Keith Andrews, Alberto Ascari, Dick Atkins, Manuel Ayulo, Tom Baldwin, Bobby Ball, Lorenzo Bandini, John Bankston, Jean Behra, Tony Bettenhausen, Gays Biro, Art Bisch, Tony Bonadies, Neil Bonnett, Joakim Bonnier, Bobby Boone, Ernie Borelli, Don Branson, Scott Brayton, Bert Brooks, Walt Brown, Jimmy Bryan, Ivor Bueb, Howard Bumpus, Wally Campbell, Danny Caruthers, Lucky Casner, Eugenio Castellotti, Eddie Casterline, François Cevert, Gaston Chevrolet, Jim Clark, Jeep Colkitt, Sam Collier, Peter Collins, Gary Congdon, Bob Cortner, Piers Courage, Larry Crockett, Allen Crowe, Joe Csiki, Paul Dana, Jimmy Davies, Don Davis, Patrick Depailler, Fred DeSarro, Bill Dils, Mark Donohue, Kevin Doty, John Draucker, Al Duffy, Nick Duino, Ronnie Duman, Dale Earnhardt, Ed Elisian, Duke Elliott, Charlie Ethier, Richie Evans, Jackie Evans, Walt Faulkner, Kevin Fleming, George Fonder and Billy Foster.

 

 

 

Video time:

 

Face it folks, auto racing can be dangerous, as you will see in the Indiana Speed Week midget races, below:

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uoxx-30Sg0c&feature=related

 

 

 

Other (non racing) news:

Towards the end of my column, last week, I had this to say:  “My apologies for the lateness of this weeks column.  Been a rather hectic week on the home front.”

 

I’d like to explain what I meant by that. 

 

Late last year, November 7th, to be exact, there was a small article in our local paper about the Group Workcamp coming to Port Jervis.  The Group Workcamp is something that started in 1977 in Colorado when people suffered from the Big Thompson River flood – a flood that damaged hundreds of homes and cost the lives of over 140 people.  Church groups from many different denominations came from all over the country, the next summer to help out.  In 1978 the Group Workcamp program went nationwide.  They are not only restricted to our country now, but also there are Workcamps that are going internationally.

At each Workcamp, both teenagers and adults, all of whom are members of church youth groups, volunteer their time for a week to repair homes in the communities that they visit.  Not very big jobs, mind you, but things like painting – both inside and outside, porch repairs, making wheelchair ramps, and other somewhat small jobs, too.

In the city where I live – Port Jervis, NY, the Port Jervis Community Development Agency (a quasi-public agency designated by the city as the local administrator of federal, state and local funds for housing rehabilitation, public improvements and economic programs) is a co-sponsor.  What is really quite remarkable is that each student pays for the privilege of doing the work!  Workcamp registration fees are used to cover the cost of food, insurance and any needed materials.  Yes, that’s right – it doesn’t cost those that have signed up for work to be done by the Group Workcamp any monies.  It is possible to send in donations though.

When the group comes to Port Jervis, they are “housed” in the High School.

I signed up to have all the trim on our house to be scraped and painted, and I was one of about 40+ families in Port Jervis to be accepted to have the work done.  There were six in the group that came to our house to do the work – one adult, Shannon Beard, and five students, Diana Ruggiero, Samuel Lick, Ryan Donovan, Taylor Cutolo and Stephen Dubis.  Their workweek is daily – Monday through Friday, from around 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, except for Wednesday, when they work until noon.  There were other groups in our neighborhood, and Mark Beard was in charge of those groups, too.  Of course, weather for the week kind of hampered things, and by Friday, in order to get the job finished, some others from other groups were chosen to come over and assist. 

I will say this:

Those kids, and Shannon did an excellent job.  My house is a two-story house, with a very high roof peak.  Below the roof peaks, both front and rear, are lower roofs, also with peaks.  There is no way that this writer would ever even think of getting up on the step ladder, on the lower roof, and stand almost on the top step, reaching up with a scraper and/or paint brush or roller on the end of a long handle, to do the job.  No sir!

Shannon and Mark came to Port Jervis from Iowa.  The students in the crew for our house came mostly from Connecticut and Massachusetts.  When the “reserves” came over on Friday, their leader came from Colorado!

Friday night there was a gathering in the High School gymnasium, with all of the students and their adult leaders, and those homeowners that had work done were invited.  I attended and had real a good time.  The gathering really had a religious theme, and rightly so, since all of those that came to Port Jervis are from various religious denominations.  I recommend that if you might be in need of some work around your house, look them up in the website I’ve furnished, below, to see if they might come to your town.

Here is a photo of the group that came and did the job for us.  Yes, they also had some fun doing some painting on each other.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you’re interested, the Group Workcamp program has a website, and you can get more information about it if you go here:

www.GroupWorkcamps.com

 

 

 

Closing with these:

 

THE LAWS OF ULTIMATE REALITY
Law of Mechanical Repair 
After your hands become coated with grease, your nose will begin to itch and you'll have to pee.


Law of Gravity 
Any tool, when dropped, will roll to the least accessible corner.


Law of Probability 
The probability of being watched is directly proportional to the stupidity of your act.


Law of Random Numbers 
If you dial a wrong number, you never get a busy signal and someone always answers.


Law of the Alibi 
If you tell the boss you were late for work because you had a flat tire, the very next morning you will have a flat tire.


Variation Law  
If you change lines (or traffic lanes), the one you were in will always move faster than the one you are in now (works every time).


Law of the Bath 
When the body is fully immersed in water, the telephone rings.


Law of Close Encounters 
The probability of meeting someone you know increases dramatically when you are with someone you don't want to be seen with.


Law of the Result 
When you try to prove to someone that a machine won't work, it will.


Law of Biomechanics 
The severity of the itch is inversely proportional to the reach.


Law of the Theater 
At any event, the people whose seats are furthest from the aisle arrive last.


The Starbucks Law 
As soon as you sit down to a cup of hot coffee, your boss will ask you to do something which will last until the coffee is cold.


Murphy's Law of Lockers 
If there are only two people in a locker room, they will have adjacent lockers.


Law of Physical Surfaces 
The chances of an open-faced jelly sandwich landing face down on a floor covering are directly correlated to the newness and cost of
the carpet/rug.


Law of Logical Argument 
Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.


Brown's Law of Physical Appearance 
If the shoe fits, it's ugly.


Oliver's Law of Public Speaking 
A closed mouth gathers no feet.


Wilson 's Law of Commercial Marketing Strategy 
As soon as you find a product that you really like, they will stop making it.


Doctors' Law 
If you don't feel well, make an appointment to go to the doctor, by the time you get there
you'll feel better. Don't make an appointment and you'll stay sick.
 

 

 

May “Guardian Angels” sit on the shoulders of all of our race drivers and guide them safely around the tracks!

 

Drive safe! 

 

As usual, you can reach me at:  ygordad@yahoo.com