Jetmore, Kan. (November 11, 2009) - On July 25,2009 Tadd Holliman, driver
of the #23R 360 Series Sprint Car was involved in a devastating racing
accident at Eagle Raceway in Lincoln, Neb. Holliman, of Beaver Lake, Neb.,
suffered six broken ribs, a bruised lung, concussion, and a broken right
upper arm.

Since the accident, Holliman has been undergoing multiple medical treatments
as well as extensive physical therapy and has been unable to return to work.

To help defray his medical expenses a special fund has been established
within the Steve King Foundation. Any funds donated to the foundation and
earmarked for Holliman will be provided directly to him and his family.

Donations are being accepted through the Steve King Foundation to help the
Holliman family cover the medical expenses. All contributions are
tax-deductible.

Donations can be made online at
www.SteveKingFoundation.org or mailed
to

Steve King Foundation
24583 NW 208 Rd
Jetmore, KS 67854

Please note Holliman on the check.

About Tadd Holliman
Holliman is a third generation driver and was often seen competing against
his father, Terry, at Eagle Raceway, his home track. He was voted the "most
improved driver" at Eagle Raceway in the mid 1990s. His all time favorite
race is the Chili Bowl, each January in Tulsa, Okla. Tadd and his wife
Darla have four children, ranging from 7 to 20 years old.

About The Steve King Foundation
The Steve King Foundation was formed to help individuals involved in dirt
track racing across the country by providing financial assistance to
drivers, pit crew members, racing officials, track operations personnel or
the immediate families of those individuals who are injured, struggling with
a severe illness or die. The foundation, a 501(c)3 will also contribute to
organizations and facilities dedicated to improving the safety of the sport
when additional funds are available.

More information can be found at
www.SteveKingFoundation.org

Labels: other racing news

From Gary Dominguez

Beginning January 1st, 2009, any real estate transaction closed through Gary Dominguez of Woods Bros. Realty will result in $100 contributed to a general point fund at Eagle Raceway per transaction. This fund will be distributed over all four classes of racers at Eagle, and will be in addition to any current point funds in place.

In order to receive this donation, Gary’s client should mention it at first meeting with him. The transaction MUST close in order for the donation to be made. The donation will be made in the name of the client, and announced during the racing season. This donation will be made solely through Gary Dominguez of Woods Bros. Realty, and will in no way affect the normal costs incurred by the client

With interest rates low, inventory high and stable pricing, now is the best time to buy a home and help our sport in one big shot! Interest rates have reached an all-time low. Some have even touched the 4.5% range. If you are thinking of selling, the new rates will put more qualified buyers on the market for your home. If you are buying, you could quite possibly save hundreds of dollars on your monthly payment.

Don’t let the national gloom and doom in the real estate market hinder you from owning the American Dream. In the Midwest, we are faring quite well compared to other parts of the country. Nebraska ranks only 45th out of 50 states in foreclosure rates. A lot of it can be attributed to our conservative, hardworking, Midwestern values.

Gary will be available again this year to notarize parental consent forms for minors in the pits. Please remember that all signers MUST bring valid picture I.D., and MUST NOT sign the form unless Gary (or any other General Notary) is present to witness the signature.

For more details, call Gary at 402 432-6316, or e-mail him at gary.dominguez@woodsbros.com

Labels: other racing news

By RICHARD PIERSOL/Lincoln Journal Star
Wednesday, Nov 12, 2008 - 12:12:54 pm CST
Lincoln has scored a win in motor sports.

More than a thousand drivers are expected to come to Lincoln for almost a week next September to compete in a national "autocross" championship meet on a concrete course west of the Lincoln Airport.

After calling Topeka, Kan., home for the last 14 years, the Tire Rack Solo National Championships will move to Lincoln next year, at the Lincoln Air Park site.

Read the rest here:

http://www.journalstar.com/news/business/doc491afb4c81d58287251908.txt

- - - - -

Jason: Credit Jeff Maul of the Lincoln Convention and Visitors bureau with helping with this big get. Jeff's a big race fan, a regular fixture at the Eagle Nationals and has many times recommended the short tracks of the area to visiting business and convention guests. This is good news for Lincoln and Midwest racing in general.

You want to talk cars? Try one THOUSAND competitors. According to the SCCA, this is the largest event of its kind in the world.

As I've already seen, somebody may cry foul and bring up the drag strip stalemate or ask why support can't be lent to the dirt tracks. Different situation, different place, different timing. Anything that will bring the motorsports spotlight to Lincoln and SE Nebraska where the show's contributions will be recognized and appreciated for its economic impact to the community is a good thing.

Good job to all!

Labels: other racing news

From 9 Racing:

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — After 29 years and 10 national championships, Steve Lewis is retiring from the USAC National Midget Championship Series.

“There are several factors contributing to my decision,” said Lewis. “I would like to devote my time and energy to help our son achieve his dream of becoming a professional race car driver. Also, as PERFORMANCE RACING INDUSTRY Trade Show and Magazine have grown over the years, my daily responsibilities are as demanding as ever. So, it just seemed like I had arrived at a point where I needed to close this wonderful chapter in my life.

“It has been a spectacular 29-year run for our team. It all began in the fall of 1979 when Stan Fox drove my first midget in a USAC National event at Ascot Park. The last race for the Nine Racing, Inc midget team will be the 68th running of the Thanksgiving Grand Prix at Toyota Speedway of Irwindale on November 27, 2008,” explained Lewis. “I’m glad I’ve lived so much of my life in racing. You’ll never meet a more extraordinary bunch of people than racers.”

“Entering USAC midget racing for the first time in 2006 as a partner with Steve Lewis’ Nine Racing organization was a great opportunity for Toyota,” said Gary Reed, vice president of Special Racing Projects for TRD, USA. “Steve and Nine Racing gave our new midget engine program immediate respectability right out of the box, and he and all the Nine Racing associates totally dedicated themselves to making sure that our Toyota midget engine debut was a success. We are extremely proud of the history we have made with Steve and the successes jointly shared by Nine Racing, Ed Pink Racing Engines and Toyota/TRD. Steve is a class act and one of the true gentlemen in our sport. We wish him the best of luck in the future and look forward to seeing Loretta and him at the track for many years to come.”

In addition to the 10 USAC National Midget Series championships; the Nine Racing team has logged over 130 feature wins in the famed #9, #19, and #91 midgets. Stan Fox, Tony Stewart, Kenny Irwin, Jr, Kasey Kahne, Jason Leffler, JJ Yeley, Mike Bliss, Stevie Reeves, Dave Darland--these are just some of the drivers who have earned wins in the famous #9 race cars of Nine Racing.

Lewis has been a lifetime midget fan from the age of 8 years old. He entered the business of auto racing when his friend Don Edmunds suggested the idea of owning and operating a midget race car. Edmunds built a four-bar AUTORESEARACH midget that was powered by an Autocraft VW engine, and this car made it’s debut at Ascot Park in the fall of 1979 with driver Stan Fox at the wheel. That night Stan finished fourth in the semi main, and that is how it all started.

Drivers earning championships for Nine Racing Inc have been: 1993 Stevie Reeves, 1995 Tony Stewart, 1996 Kenny Irwin Jr., 1998 Jason Leffler, 1999 Jason Leffler, 2000 Kasey Kahne, 2001 Dave Darland, 2002 Dave Darland, 2003 J.J. Yeley, 2004 Bobby East.

A variety of engines have powered Lewis-owned midgets through the years. In the beginning, it was VW AutoCraft engines, then there was a brief stint with Pontiac power. In 1992, the switch was made to Gaerte Engines and the 1993 and 1995 Champions were powered by Earl Gaerte’s creations. The Nine Racing team started using Ed Pink Fords in early 1996, and all the wins and championships through 2005 were with Ed Pink Ford power. In 2006, the Ed Pink Toyota midget engine made it’s debut at the 2006 Copper Classic in grand form with driver Dave Steele winning the race. From the late 1980s to 2004, Bob East managed the Nine Racing, Inc racing program. Under his watchful eye, numerous race wins occurred and midget driving champions were developed. Many of the Nine Racing, Inc drivers from this period went on to excel in upper level series.

Crew chief Kelly Drake will remain on board and will operate and manage the Brownsburg, Indiana Nine Racing, Inc shop facility. “Over the past three years, we have built and outfitted our shop to reflect the state of the art for grassroots racing endeavors, and we’ll develop a plan to fully utilize this asset,” stated Steve Lewis. The newly developed Nine Racing website will be kept current as well, and the “history portal” will be updated to include photographs and bios of all the drivers that drove the number 9 cars. “We have filing cabinets full of wonderful photographs and I feel it would be a fun project to get these photos out of the cabinets and onto the website for everyone see and enjoy,” exclaimed Lewis.

He also expressed his profound appreciation for the Nine Racing sponsors. “ASE and Oakley have been terrific. Other sponsors who played an important role in Nine Racing include such great racing brands as Eibach, Weld Wheel, Earl’s Performance Plumbing, Performance Friction and VHT,” said Lewis. “We have a great team of sponsors, and I want to thank them for their contributions.”

Michael Lewis, son of Loretta and Steve Lewis, is currently in his senior year of high school, and already has a long history in racing, including karting in Europe and America, Focus Midgets and quarter midgets. This year, Michael Lewis won the IKF Region 7 championship in the TaG Light class. Steve and Michael are currently working toward putting together a program in the Formula BMW Americas series for 2009.

Lewis’ company, Performance Racing Industry, organizes the largest racing trade show in the world, with its 21st edition to be held in Orlando this December. Approximately 1,400 companies exhibit, taking up 1,000,000 square feet, with 40,000 racing industry professionals attending from more than 50 countries. PRI magazine is the monthly business magazine for the worldwide racing marketplace.

“I started watching midget racing from the grandstands in the early 1950’s at the Orange Show Speedway in San Bernardino, California, and was captivated as a young boy with the excitement of watching midgets race on a tight, dusty dirt track. I have had the wonderful opportunity to be able to participate in a sport that I truly love. I have had rewarding experiences that I never could have dreamed of, made friends along the way that are truly special to me because of my involvement in this great sport. Now, it is time for me to head back to the grandstands, grab a hot dog and maybe even a beer and continue to watch the best drivers in the world race midgets on dusty dirt tracks as well as the high speed pavement tracks.”

For more information on the history of Nine Racing, go to www.nineracing.com.

Labels: other racing news

Junction Motor Speedway manager Barb Nunnenkamp passed away after a bout
with cancer Wednesday morning October 29th.

Services will be held Saturday, November 1, 2008 at 10:30AM at St. Mark's
Evangelical Lutheran Church, 301 S. Saunders Ave. Sutton, Nebraska

* * *

Jason: In my dealings with Barb regarding the ESTS and afterward with this
website, I found Barb to be diligent, detailed, hard working, straightforward and
willing to listen. She was completely devoted to the success of Junction
Motor Speedway.

Labels: other racing news

From Gary Dominguez:

This week is the last chance to sign up for the Seminar to help you get and keep sponsors for your racing machine. It is this Saturday at 10 AM at the Auto Transmatic Shop in Bennington. Meat trays and chips will be served courtesy of Roger and Michelle Hadan. Sign up by clicking the link below, and click on the blue button on the left side for the sponsorship seminar.

Seminar signup here

This is open to all racers of all tracks! Cost is $10 per person. I will need a final head count by Thursday October 30th. For more details, email me at gary.dominguez@woodsbros.com

* * *

Here's some words from me, Jason:

If you are even remotely concerned about money for next year's racing, you really need to attend this seminar.

Unless you're living under a rock or have been practicing for the role of Helen Keller in the community play, you know economic times are getting tough and money won't be spread so liberally - as if it was last season.

If you think that purses are going to go up, you are mistaken. Yeah, maybe Knoxville's looking to bump up their purse but everyone else is going to let them be the first to try. Gas may be going down, but the cost of parts isn't, and remember all the complaining of $2.50/gal gas the previous year as being expensive.

Anyone knows that to move up to the next level, one has to get out of their comfort zone. Maybe you go to a new track, maybe you take on tougher competition, maybe you start investing time and money into making the car go faster instead of just maintaining.

And when the money's tight it takes more than asking your buddy or your boss for a few bucks.

For less than the price of a case of after-the-race beer, (or for only a few in the stands when you run out of money to race), you can get knowledge to reach more people, with more opportunities to get you the money you need to keep going or get ahead. And this knowledge will stick with you your whole racing career.

Labels: editorial, Events, other racing news

There's a great article in the Lincoln Journal Star about the Bryan family and the driving force behind this weekend's Kid's Night

Here's the link to the article:

The secret story behind 'Kids Night' at Eagle Raceway

Labels: other racing news

From USMTS

PARKERSBURG, Iowa (June 6) – When the United States
Modified Touring Series travels into Northern Iowa next
week, race fans will not only have the opportunity to
witness some of the best Modified racers in America,
they'll also be helping out families that were devastated
by a tornado on May 25 that left eight people dead and
destroyed more than 200 houses and damaged hundreds of
others.

While race teams from all across America's heartland will
be driving their rigs into the Highway 3 Raceway in
Allison on Wednesday, June 11, residents of the small town
of Parkersburg, located just 12 miles south of Allison,
will still be busy cleaning up after the disaster and
rebuilding their town.

According to news reports, more than half of Parkersburg -
a town of 1,900 people - was destroyed, including several
hundred homes, the city hall and high school. The path of
the tornado that churned through Parkersburg and several
other communities was up to a mile wide. Two additional
people were killed in New Hartford and nearly 70 others
were injured in the region. Debris from Parkersburg was
discovered as far away as LaCrosse, Wis.

USMTS officials invite the residents of Parkersburg to
take a well-deserved night off and come enjoy an evening
at the races on us.

At both the Allison race on Wednesday, and at the Fayette
County Speedway in West Union on Thursday, the USMTS will
donate $2 from every adult grandstand ticket sold to the
Tornado Relief Fund. In addition, every person with a
Parkersburg drivers license will get into the night's
events FREE of charge.

"This is home base for us," said USMTS president and
promoter Todd Staley. "Our hometown and offices are a
short drive west of here in Webster City, and the
heartbeat of the USMTS is in Northern Iowa and Southern
Minnesota."

In addition to the USMTS, Staley also operates the United
States Racing Association (USRA), which sanctions weekly
auto racing at several tracks in the region.

"My family and I drove through Parkersburg last weekend."
Staley added. "The photos you see on the news and the
Internet don't come close to doing justice to the actual
devastation these folks have suffered. Most of our fans,
drivers and their crew members have friends or family from
that area, or know somebody affected by this disaster.
It's our hope that our small contribution to the relief
efforts will have a positive effect on the people of
Parkersburg and the surrounding towns hit by this
tornado."

In addition to donating $2 from every adult grandstand
ticket to the Parkersburg Tornado Relief Fund, race fans
can also pick up $2 off coupons on race day at Casey's
General Stores locations in Allison, Aplington, Cedar
Falls and Clarksville for the Wednesday, June 11, event at
the Highway 3 Raceway, and at Casey's General Stores
locations in Fredericksburg, Oelwein, Ossian and Postville
for the Fayette County Speedway event on Thursday, June
12.

As part of the festivities each race night, drivers will
walk through the grandstands with their helmets and
collect donations from generous race fans. Already,
several sponsors have also pledged to offer financial
contributions during the events, and a handful of drivers
have expressed that they plan to donate their winnings
each night to the relief effort too.

Come out for some great racing for a great cause!

For those who would like to make a donation directly to
the relief fund, call Lincoln Savings Bank toll-free at
866-235-2098 or make checks payable to "LSB
Foundation/Tornado Relief Fund" and mail to one of the
following locations:

Tornado Relief Fund
c/o Lincoln Savings Bank
242 Tower Park Dr.
Waterloo, IA 50701

Tornado Relief Fund
c/o Lincoln Savings Bank
932 Parriott St.
Aplington, IA 50604

At both O'Reilly USMTS National Tour events, pit gates
open at 4:30 p.m. and grandstands open for general
admission seating at 5:30. Hot laps are slated for 6:30
and the mud starts flying at 6:45.

In addition to the thrilling action of the O'Reilly USMTS
National Tour, the racing card will also feature USRA Karl
Chevrolet Stock Cars, USRA Karl Chevrolet B-Mods and USRA
Hobby Stocks for a full night of racing.

Fan favorite Mark Noble and his Miller Lite/Casey's
General Stores Modified will appear at the Casey's
location on Wednesday in Allison at 100 Cherry St. from
1-3 p.m., then again on Thursday in Postville at 164 W.
Tildon St. from 1-3 p.m.

The Highway 3 Raceway is a half-mile semi-banked clay oval
located 0.3 miles north of SR 3 on S. Main St. (at the
Butler County Fairgrounds). More information is available
online at www.highway3raceway.com. The Fayette County
Speedway is a 3/8-mile semi-banked clay oval located 0.9
mile south of US 18 on SR 150, then 0.1 mile east on SR 56
(at the Fayette County Fairgrounds). Visit
www.fayettecofair.com for more information.

The USMTS is celebrating its 10th Anniversary Season in
2008 with many special promotions to show thanks to the
fans, drivers, team members, families and sponsors who
have helped make the USMTS the premier dirt modified
series in the nation.

To learn more about the United States Modified Touring
Series, call the headquarters at (515) 832-7944 or visit
www.usmts.com online for the latest news and information
from the USMTS — America's Hottest Ticket on Dirt.

Labels: other racing news

From I-80 Speedway:

As you probably have heard or seen in pictures, Adams County Speedway has caught the brunt of the 2008 storms and is under water. In 2006 a windstorm tore up I-80 Speedway and the ACS staff worked right beside us to help rebuild.

In an effort to help ACS with deductibles and get their facilities back in running order, this Sunday night, June 8, I-80 Speedway will be donating ALL GRANDSTAND PROCEEDS FROM AN IOWA PATRON TO ADAMS COUNTY SPEEDWAY (just show your Iowa drivers license).

Labels: other racing news

Todd Henrichs of the Lincoln Journal Star did a nice write up on Billy Alley following his win last Saturday (May 1) in Knoxville.

http://journalstar.com/articles/2008/06/06/sports/doc48488c4f91f84820708088.txt

Labels: other racing news

Hastings, Nebraska (March 30, 2008) - As we all near the start of a new season, it will also be the restart of a local racing ministry. Heartland Racing Outreach which is now under the direction of Don Francis, will be in attendance at KAM Raceway Park for the 2008 Season. As opportunities open, HRO will expand to be at other area tracks to provide its services.

It is an exciting time as the ministry will be out and about again and providing many of the same services as it had before with a few new oppertunities to provide. To find out more about HRO and see its schedule, you can visit their MySpace Page at www.myspace.com/tbmx923

Labels: other racing news

by Team Dover Media

SPRINGFIELD, Neb. (March 26, 2007) -- Following six ASCS
races in Texas and Oklahoma during the month of March,
Jack Dover will be back in action in his home state of
Nebraska this weekend. Jack and Team Dover Motorsports
will compete in the Ice Breaker Challenge featuring the
Budweiser 360 Sprint Cars on March 29-30 at Eagle Raceway
in Eagle, NE.

In 2007, Dover won the last two feature races atop the 1/3
mile high banked oval at Eagle Raceway. Following a
victory in the Season Finale on August 31, Dover became
the youngest driver to ever claim the Nebraska Cup on
September 7 at the age of seventeen.

Dover will pilot his family owned, 3 D Auto Transport,
Eckley powered Eagle and is looking forward to the weekend
close to home. "We had two great runs at Eagle at the end
of last year." Said Dover. "There will be a lot of good
cars and drivers there for the Ice Breaker, hopefully we
can pick up where we left off in 2007."

Gates open at 3:30pm and racing begins at 5:00pm on
Saturday and Sunday for the Ice Breaker Challenge. Eagle
Raceway is located 12 miles east of Lincoln, NE (2 miles
east of Eagle, NE) on U.S. Highway 34 ('O' Street) or 11
miles south of Interstate 80, exit 420 on Highway 63 to
the intersection of Nebraska Highway 63 and U.S. Highway
34.

Jack and Team Dover Motorsports would like to thank their
2008 Sponsors: 3 D Auto Transport Inc., RMS, Trail
Performance Powder Coating, Thorpes Auto Body, Eckley
Racing Engines, Eagle Chassis, Keizer Aluminum Wheels, ATV
Motorsports, Speedway Motors, Bell Racing, Butler Built
Professional Seat Systems, Design 500 Racewear, FK Rod
Ends, Brown and Miller Racing Solutions, CMET Excavating
and NOS Energy Drink.

For more information about Jack and Team Dover Motorsports
please visit www.teamdover.com

Labels: other racing news

by Randy Lawrence, Media Director

LINCOLN, Neb. (March 26, 2007) -- The Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame is pleased to announce it’s inductees for 2008. The Induction Ceremony will be held on Friday, October 3, at the Lincoln Firefighters Reception Hall at 241 Victory Lane in Lincoln, NE. The event will honor Nebraskans with an outstanding history of involvement in auto racing.

The 2008 Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame inductees will include Joe Fahnstock, Lincoln; Terry Fritsch, Omaha; Bob Nickolite, Lincoln; Joe Orth, Lincoln; John Wilkinson, Lincoln; Charlie Williams, Lincoln and Bill Wrich, Kennard.

Joe Fahnstock
Fahnstock promoted the first midget races in Nebraska in 1935. Joe also promoted races at the Nebraska State Fair from 1932-41 and was an official at many Nebraska tracks.

Terry Fritsch
Fritsch started his racing career in Go-Karts in 1958 at the age of 11. After four years in Karts he turned his sights to drag racing and his first pass was at 104 MPH. Fritsch won two national events in the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), the World Championship in 1966 and the 1969 U.S. Nationals in the A/Comp Eliminator class.

Bob Nickolite
Nicholite started as a flagman for Ed O’Boyle in North Platte and was a race official throughout Nebraska, Kansas and Colorado for many years. Bob was also a driving force in getting the race track at the Nebraska State Fairgrounds built in the 1990s.

Joe Orth
Orth has been a photographer, crew member and a true ambassador to the sport of auto racing in Nebraska. Orth’s career has spanned nearly five decades and he is one of the finest racing photographers in the country. Joe has been the track photographer at Eagle Raceway for many years and his work has graced the pages of Flat Out Magazine and the Paul Oxman Sprint Car Calendar.

John Wilkinson
Wilkinson raced Modifieds and Super Modifieds throughout the 1950s and 1960s winning several track championships. While driving the Williams-Swenson No. 24, Wilkinson won the track championship at Midwest Speedway in 1965 and numerous feature wins.

Charlie Williams
Williams, a car owner teamed with his son-in-law, Gary Swenson to win many races and track championships. With Ray Lee Goodwin at the wheel the Williams-Swenson team won the 1968 Knoxville Nationals, the track championship at the Topeka Fairgrounds in 1970, the Eagle Raceway track championship in 1971 and the 1972 IMCA championship.

Bill Wrich
Wrich began racing in 1954 at the age of 16. Bill has won track championships at Washington County Speedway, Sunset Speedway, Playland Park, Shelby County Speedway and Crawford County Speedway. Wrich also raced with USAC and IMCA during the 1970s. His last feature win came in 2005 taking the Race of Legends at I-80 Speedway, 51 years after the start of his career.

Ticket information for the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be available soon.

The purpose of the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame is to perpetuate the memory of these individuals who have brought lasting fame to the state of Nebraska through their efforts in auto racing.

Nominees to the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame must have been a resident of the state for at least two years and must be retired for at least four years from the discipline they are being honored for. Active participants in the sport will be considered if they are at least 55 years of age and have been with the sport for at least 30 years.

All candidates must have made positive contributions to the sport of auto racing on a local, regional and go on to some national prominence.

Anyone wishing to nominate a person to the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame can do so by submitting the person's name, with a list of their accomplishments in a short bio to: The Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame, Inc., 5527 S. 20th St., Lincoln, NE 68512. You can also call 402-421-2266, or e-mail your nomination to jorth@narhof.com.

The Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame is located inside the Museum of American Speed at 340 Victory Lane on the Speedway Motors complex in Lincoln, Neb.

The Museum of American Speed hours: May through September, two-hour guided tours begin at 2 p.m., Monday through Friday. October through April, two-hour guided tours begin at 2 p.m. every Friday. Admission is $10 to tour the museum.

For more information about the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame please visit www.narhof.com

Labels: other racing news

From Gary Dominguez, Midwest Racers Autograph Day

If you know of anyone in our racing family that has passed away in the past year, please let us know at midwestracers@yahoo.com. This does not have to be a driver or owner. It can be a crew member, fan, track owner, or anybody that has been dedicated to the sport we all love.

We are going to remember all members of the racing family lost this past year by announcing their names and having an engine firing in their honor at Autograph Day.

Autograph Day will take place on Saturday April 5 at Uncle Ron's Wild West Saloon in Lincoln, NE

Labels: other racing news

Ryan Tunks, creator of the Midwest Speedway Preservation Society website posted some links to videos from the defunct Midwest Speedway on Dirtdrivers.com. For those unfamiliar, Midwest Speedway sat at the corner of 27th and Superior streets in Lincoln, NE, now home to a Wal-Mart.

While the track hosted everything from supermodifieds to late models, arguably the speedway's biggest claim is being the birthplace of the 360 Sprint class.

For some of us they're great memories, for the newbies - a way to see the 360 Sprint class in its infancy and to watch the IMCA modifieds begin to branch out to other tracks.

Here's the link to the dirtdriver's thread: Midwest Speedway Videos

Labels: other racing news

Check it out at www.thayercountyspeedway.net

Labels: other racing news

Kenny Wallace fans can “Hang with Herman” at select O’Reilly USMTS National Tour events; Proceeds to benefit Victory Junction Gang Camp

SPIRIT LAKE, Iowa — RLD Marketing and Night of Victory are happy to announce that NASCAR driver Kenny Wallace will be participating in five special evenings of “Hang with Herman” while he travels with the O’Reilly USMTS National Tour.

“Hang with Herman” is a special “meet and greet” opportunity at the following dates and tracks on the O’Reilly USMTS National Tour:

Wednesday, June 18 … Park Jefferson Speedway, Jefferson, S.D.
Wednesday, June 25 … Huset’s Speedway, Brandon, S.D.
Wednesday, July 23 … Clay County Speedway, Spencer, Iowa
Tuesday, July 29 … Cresco Speedway, Cresco, Iowa
Wednesday, July 30 … Southern Iowa Speedway, Oskaloosa, Iowa

The evening is an opportunity to meet with NASCAR fan favorite Kenny Wallace, grab an autograph, get a photo taken, ask Kenny some questions, learn about Night of Victory and talk about racing!

“I am very excited about partnering with Night of Victory,” said Wallace, winner of three Most Popular Driver Awards. “I’ve had the opportunity to work with Night of Victory before and they really put together exciting events that benefit a very deserving cause. I hope the fans get excited about coming out to the dirt track early to have some fun hanging out with us before the races.”

The Night of Victory will be held on Sept. 17 at the Deer Creek Speedway in Spring Valley, Minn., to benefit the Victory Junction Gang Camp. A prelude to the 10th Annual Featherlite Fall Jamboree, the event will be a day-long opportunity to reach fans in the Midwest. Throughout the day, the general public will be able to partake in the festivities at the track: they can meet NASCAR team members, see show cars, visit souvenir trailers, purchase merchandise and much more!

The evening will culminate with an autograph session with the NASCAR drivers and personalities, a “match race” with the NASCAR drivers, a catered meal and an auction with over 150 items of racing memorabilia to benefit the Victory Junction Gang Camp.

NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers will be on hand for autographs and photo opportunities.

“While we are expecting 500-700 people to be in attendance for the festivities, that number could easily be in the thousands for the race-fest portion of the day,” said Rachel Dean of RLD Marketing. “We’re excited to have Kenny promoting Night of Victory throughout the summer at the “Hang with Herman” events, and we’re also excited about having our logo on his modified.

“Kenny is a wonderful spokesperson and we’re more than thrilled having him promote our fundraiser for the Victory Junction Gang Camp.”

“Hang with Herman” tickets are $30 per person. Each ticket includes your ticket to the “meet and greet” with Kenny Wallace, your ticket to that evening’s O’Reilly USMTS National Tour race, a great meal and the opportunity to win some great prizes!

To order tickets, please contact Rachel Dean at 712-339-9064 or email her at racheltwait@mchsi.com. Visit www.nightofvictory.com for more information on the “Hang with Herman” and Night of Victory events.

For more information, check out www.nightofvictory.com, www.usmts.com and www.kennywallace.com on the World Wide Web.

To learn more about the United States Modified Touring Series, call the headquarters at (515) 832-7944 or visit www.usmts.com online for the latest news and information from the USMTS — America's Hottest Ticket on Dirt.

Labels: other racing news

From www.billyalley.com

A new era has begun for Billy Alley and Shane Sterling, as they have teamed up to
become SA Racing. Billy is very excited to announce that Delta Oil will be the primary
sponsor for the upcoming 2008 racing season. “Proud would be the best word to
describe the last couple of weeks. I am very excited and proud to be apart of what is
going on in Lincoln, Nebraska. A lot of hard work has already been set forth in reuniting
the 22,” Billy comments.

“Delta Oil is very excited to partake in the continued success of Billy’s phenomenal
racing career. This commitment solidifies our relationship and we feel will elevate both
of our companies to new standards of excellence,” says Alex Lontayo, Delta Oil
spokesman. “Delta Oil is a primarily European based company, but working towards a
2008 product launch here in the United States,” exclaimed Shane Sterling. “Delta Oil
has very big plans for its United States debut and we’re excited that they will be a part of
Billy’s success and rise to the top of the motor sports world.”

“Billy is an exceptional young man with talent that is unheard of in the sport of racing.
What he has accomplished in his short career is nothing short of amazing. With the
success of Delta Oil overseas, they have come to the United States and chose Billy to
represent their company. With this decision, SA Racing has the full backing of Delta
Oil,” comments Shane Sterling.

SA Racing is also happy to announce the addition of several other prominent sponsors.
Aeroquip has come aboard to be apart of this exciting ride. “Their fittings are some of
the best and lightest in the industry,” says Billy. In addition, JEI Chassis and Wesmar
Racing Engines.

Several other sponsors have joined forces to help the number 22, such as Craig Bolz,
Buckles Brothers, Buss Excavating, Schmit Automotive and McClain Motorsports.
“Without the help of these local business owners, none of this would have happened,”
states Billy.

D’Agostino Racing, out of Ft. Lauderdale, rounds out the list of companies. “It’s hard
not to get involved with a race team that has such a positive history. It would be a poor
decision not to sponsor them.” says owner Derek D’Agostino.

“Racing is something that is universal. We are just proud to represent a global company
that has had success in other racing ventures. With the addition of SA Racing to their
sponsorships, Delta Oil will continue to thrive,” states Shane.

For more information and continued updates please visit Billy’s website at:
www.billyalley.com

Labels: other racing news

by Lonnie Wheatley

TULSA, Okla. (February 8, 2008) – The battle for the 2008 O'Reilly American Sprint Cars on Tour National championship just got tougher, as it has been announced that Lincoln, Nebraska's Don Droud, Jr., will team with Olive Branch, MS, car owner Bobby Sparks for the full campaign.

Droud throws his hat into a ring that already includes the likes of four-time and reigning series champion Gary Wright along with other past ASCS National champions including Travis Rilat, Zach Chappell, Wayne Johnson and Garry Lee Maier in addition to two-time series runner-up Jason Johnson.

"I'm excited about it, I look forward to stepping up my program and racing on a nightly basis with guys like Gary Wright, Jason Johnson and Garry Lee Maier," Droud explained. "I've always said that the ASCS National Tour is probably tougher than the World of Outlaws just because of the format and the guys that you have to run with every night. It's going to be tough, but I'm looking forward to it."

Droud opened up the season with the O'Reilly ASCoT National series last weekend aboard Bobby Sparks' Wells-powered No. 91 Hoosier-shod Eagle, making the feature cut on all three nights and escaping the triple tied for eighth in early-season points.

But no plans had been established beyond that season-opening event atop Tampa's 1/3-mile clay oval.

"I already had a deal worked out to drive for the Ochs brothers out of Jetmore," Droud explains of the team that he paired with to rank second in 2007 NCRA Sprint Car points. "Bobby and I had talked about the rest of the season a little bit, but I wanted to make sure he still wanted to after Florida 'cause the last time I was down there I was horrible."

"Everything was good last weekend though, so I spent at least two hours on the phone Sunday with the Ochs brothers and we were able to work things out, I'll be driving the full ASCS National Tour with Bobby Sparks and then I'll run their car the rest of the time."

The end result is a full slate for Droud in 2008 with approximately 45 nights of ASCS National action supplemented by another 25 or so nights with the Ochs team.

While pursuing the series $50,000 championship, Droud is also eligible for Brodix Rookie of the Year honors along with fellow rookie contenders Eric Baldaccini, Kathryne Minter and Gary Taylor.

Displaying his versatility by enjoying success in both winged and wingless Sprint Cars as well as Midgets in recent years, Droud teams with one of the leading car owners in the business.

Sparks has fielded winning Sprint Cars for over 30 years, spending the past five and a half years with Bixby, OK, shoe Darren Stewart at the helm. "Darren was like a son to me, but he wasn't able to commit to the full Tour this year so we had to make the change," Sparks commented.

"I've had a lot of people call and ask about the ride," Sparks explains. "Don and I get along real good and I've known him for a long time. You've got to be comfortable with the person you're going to spend all this time going up and down the road with, it's almost like a marriage."

This won't be the first time for Sparks and Droud to team up however, as Droud spent several races aboard the familiar No. 91 car several years ago.

"You've got to have someone that's hungry, someone that wants to win races. Don is that guy, he's at that point in his career right now and we're looking forward to a big year," Sparks concludes.

With Dennis Wells providing the powerplants for the Sparks Racing Team in 2008, the Droud-Sparks combo will next hit the track when the O'Reilly American Sprint Cars on Tour Nationals series takes to the Devil's Bowl Speedway ½-mile clay oval in Mesquite, TX, for the 35th Annual Spring Nationals on March 14-15.

Additional information regarding the American Sprint Car Series is available at www.ascsracing.com.

Labels: other racing news

Many remember "Smitty" as the Wavelink Raceway Park flagman as well as his
time atop the stand at Eagle and I-80.

Gary Edward Smith 71, Lincoln, died peacefully at home Friday (01/25/08).
Owner Geier's Bakery 1961-1995; Lincoln High School Graduate; Lincoln High
School Athletic Hall of Fame; Nebraska Athletic Hall of Fame (Team
football), 1954; Minor League Chicago Cubs, 1956-1958; Los Angeles Dodgers,
1958-1961; coached Leon's Midget Football, American Legion Baseball, and
Little Fry Basketball; flagged car races at Eagle Raceway & Waverly Raceway
Park; loved playing golf & flying radio controlled airplanes. Gary's
grandchildren were the greatest joys of his life.

Survived by: wife, Diane P.; son, Gary Kevin & wife, Julie, Lincoln;
grandchildren, Ryan Smith & Sarah Smith; daughter, Kimberly Brown & husband,
Stephen, Phoenix; daughter-in-law, Jonna Smith, Lincoln; brothers-in-law &
spouses, Richard & Rae Geier; David & Sherri Geier, all of Lincoln; Donald
Geier & Barbara Johnson, Overland Park, Kan.; nieces & nephews. Preceeded in
death by his son, Randy; and parents, Edward & Helen.

Memorial Services: 11 a.m. Wednesday (01/30/08), Butherus, Maser & Love
Funeral Home, Lincoln. Burial: Lincoln Memorial Park. Visitation: 9 a.m. - 9
p.m. Sunday through Tuesday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers,
memorials suggested to JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation); HoriSun
Hospice; or Southeast Nebraska Cancer Center. Condolences may be left @
http://www.bmlfh.com/. Butherus, Maser & Love Funeral Home is in charge of
arrangements.

Labels: other racing news

Midwest Motorsports Promotions have released their 2008 update of the Midwest Racers Autograph Day website. Check it out here: http://autographday.homestead.com/

Labels: other racing news

From I-80 Speedway

Greenwood, NE (January 10, 2008)- The 2007 I-80 Speedway and champions were crowned on Saturday, January 5, 2008 at the Millard American Legion. There were 11 different drivers in 12 divisions who were recognziewd by fellow drivers, family and sponsors during the annual awards banquet.

The champions and their divisions are:

Al Humphrey (#6) in the 2007 Dodge Super Late Models, Jason Hobscheidt (#1) in the Great Clips Crate Late Models, Matt Richards (#1r) in the Modifieds, Jesse Sobbing (#99) in the Hobby Stocks, Shaun Bulin (#36) in the Ty’s Outdoor Power Equipment Pro Stocks and the Certified Transmission Pro Ams, Todd Hipnar (#12) in the City Weekly Grand Nationals, Jared Hoefelman (#15h) in the the Midas B Mods, Justin Soule (#16j) in the Stereo West Auto Toys Pro Hornets, Alex Fink (#2) in the Stereo West Auto Toys Novice Hornets, Ryan Gladwin (#J1) in the Novice Crate Late Models, and Nick Clifford (#99c) in the Midwest Linings 305 Sprints.

Special recognition awards went to:
Most Improved Driver– by Action Signs
Stereo West Auto Toys Hornets-81 Steve England
Midwest Linings 305 Sprints-96 Dan Satriano
Midas B Mods-21 Jim Fritz
Ty’s Outdoor Pro Stocks-24 Don Mohr
Great Clips Crate Late Models-(tie)
-2 Dwane Pospisil and 2d Todd Morgan
Certified Transmission Pro Ams-T72 Thad Thomson
City Weekly Grand Nationals-(tie)
-12 Todd Hipnar and 2x Andrew Kosiski
Hobby Stocks-m70 Rick Munson
Pro Mods-4 JC Wyman
Dodge Super Late Model- 00 Clint Benson

Best Appearing Car presented by Ultimate Racing Products
Stereo West Auto Toys Hornets-9x Joe Baker
Midwest Linings 305 Sprints-9t Trish Dover
Midas B Mods-Z00 Lacey Tuttle
Ty’s Outdoor Pro Stocks-49x Chad Sanders
Great Clips Crate Late Models-2d Todd Morgan
Certified Transmission Pro Ams-25x Joe Feyen
City Weekly Grand Nationals-35 Kortney Kosiski
Hobby Stocks-7 Tom Myers
Pro Mods-95 Buzz Wilson
Dodge Super Late Model-80 Scott Koskovich

Most Popular Driver Award
Stereo West Auto Toys Hornets-15 Jamie Spanel
Midwest Linings 305 Sprints-95 Nick Satriano
Midas B Mods-71 Floyd Richards
Ty’s Outdoor Pro Stocks-90 Andy Miller
Great Clips Crate Late Models-1 Jason Hobscheidt
Certified Transmission Pro Ams-49x Chad Sanders
City Weekly Grand Nationals-2x Andrew Kosiski
Hobby Stocks-6 Jimmy Nichols, Jr.
Pro Mods-4 JC Wyman
Dodge Super Late Model-53 Joe Kosiski

Rookie of the Year
Stereo West Auto Toys Hornets-13 Pete Fink Jr.
Midwest Linings 305 Sprints-99c Nick Clifford
Midas B Mods-15h Jared Hoefelman
Ty’s Outdoor Pro Stocks-55d Nick Deal
Great Clips Crate Late Models-2x Andrew Kosiski
Certified Transmission Pro Ams-84 Doug Stevenson, Jr.
City Weekly Grand Nationals-51 Matt Buller
Hobby Stocks-4w Joe Wollenhaupt
Pro Mods-16 Reese Coffee
Dodge Super Late Model-25 Kenny Edwards

The 2007 Total Performance Parts Rising Star finalists, as well as the top Rising Star also were announced:
Novice Crate Late Models-Lindsey Yost and Ryan Gladwin
Midwest Linings 305 Sprints- Trish Dover
Midas B Mods-Lacey Tuttle
Ty’s Outdoor Pro Stocks-Nick Deal
Great Clips Crate Late Models-Andrew Kosiski
Certified Transmission Pro Ams-Tim Padroza
City Weekly Grand Nationals-Brad Soll
Hobby Stocks-Jesse Sobbing
Pro Mods-JC Wyman
Dodge Super Late Model-Jason Hobscheidt

Top Rising Star: Jason Hobscheidt

Also recognized were the 24 drivers who made the “Top 500” for the NASCAR Whelen All American Series, as well as the State Top 10.

Labels: other racing news

From Eagle Raceway

The 2007 Awards Banquet was held on Saturday, January 5th, 2008 at the Double D Ranch in Ashland, NE. Trophies were awarded to the top 10 in each division.
Congratulations to the 2007 track champions:
Budweiser Championship 360 Sprints- Mike Boston
Bud Light Wingless Sprints- Jeff Lowery
Monster IMCA Modifieds- Chris Alcorn
Valentino's IMCA Hobby Stocks- Justin Wulf
Stereo West Auto Toy's IMCA Sport Compacts- Kyle Schamp

Congratulations to the 2007 Rookies of the Year:
Budweiser Championship 360 Sprints- Trevor Grossenbacher
Monster IMCA Modifieds- Dylan Smith
Valentino's IMCA Hobby Stocks- Dan Noonan
Stereo West Auto Toy's IMCA Sport Compacts- Jake Sells

Congratulations to the 2007 Most Improved Drivers:
Budweiser Championship 360 Sprints- Gage Dorr
Monster IMCA Modifieds- Chad Andersen
Valentino's IMCA Hobby Stocks- Nick Beckman
Stereo West Auto Toy's IMCA Sport Compacts- Kyle Schamp

Congratulations to the 2007 Best Appearing Car:
Budweiser Championship 360 Sprints- Ken Klabunde

Congratulations to the 2007 Hard Luck Award:
Bud Light Wingless Sprints- Jay Jordan

Congratulations to the 2007 Slick Chick Award:
Stereo West Auto Toy's IMCA Sport Compacts- Amanda Rhiley

Congratulations to the 2007 Homer Simpson Award:
Stereo West Auto Toy's IMCA Sport Compacts- Dan Rhiley

Congratulations to the 2007 Horizon Award:
Stereo West Auto Toy's IMCA Sport Compacts- Kyle Schamp

Labels: other racing news

From Rhonda Wisdom

Hello, there is a kids club starting at Beatrice Speedway for ages 4-11. Each night of the next race season will be a themed/business night. Such as Dental Health night, Paper Airplane Contests, Bank Night, Coloring Contests, Bike Races, #114 Race Team Night, etc….

I am asking if your business/race team would be interested in sponsoring a night. On average, we have about 100 Kids at the races each week.

You have 2 choices in the level of sponsorship:

Choice #1 is $25. Your business/race team would be listed on the Beatrice Speedway Website, and the Wisdom Race Photos website. Your business/race team name would be mentioned several times during the evening as a Kids Club Sponsor for that evening. In addition you will provide some type of giveaways for the members that evening. You do not need to be present for any of this, if you choose to be, you will certainly be recognized during the evening.

Choice #2 is $75. This choice is the same as #1, except, we will also put your business/race team name on the Kids Club t-shirts. Each Kids Club member will receive a t-shirt free of charge. They will be asked to wear this shirt each week. This option is only available until February 1 in order to get the t-shirts printed in time. –Just think, that’s 100 little billboards running around with your business on their shirt!!!

Examples of giveaways are: if you are a dentist, you could provide toothbrushes and toothpaste to the members. If you only wanted to provide 1 or 2 large items to be given away in a drawing for the Kids Club, that can be done also, such a savings bond or a backpack of school supplies etc. If you are a race team, you could provide pop or juice boxes to all the members, or you could provide a couple of t-shirts to be given to the members, etc.. If you’re restaurant, you could provide free kids meal coupons or free ice cream cone coupons for the kids members.

I will be calling you in the next week or so, please think not only of how this will benefit you, think of how you can make this Kids Club a success by sponsoring a night. Please have in mind the giveaway you will be sponsoring. The sponsorship fee and the giveaways need to be paid and furnished by February 1. I know this is early for the race season, but we have to be sure we have enough sponsors to cover every night of racing.

Thanks so much for your generosity and support of Beatrice Speedway.
Make checks payable to Rhonda Wisdom/Wisdom Race Photos.

Rhonda Wisdom, 402-239-4952, www.wisdomracephotos.com & www.beatricespeedway.com

Download your sponsorship form by clicking here

Labels: other racing news

By Randy Lawrence

OMAHA, Neb. (December 16, 2007) -- The second annual Holiday Horsepower Drive took place on Saturday, December 15, 2007. The event organized by Modified driver Buddy Ray Jones and Rachael Lee brought together fifteen drivers from the eastern Nebraska region to benefit the Omaha Children's Hospital.

The owners of Quaker Steak and Lube in Council Bluffs, IA., graciously offered the use of a section of the restaurant for the drivers and volunteers to rap presents prior to the Children's Hospital visit. Boxes were filled with donated items including racing hats, T-shirts, die cast cars, decals, coloring books and much more.

Representatives from the Children’s Hospital were on hand at Quaker Steak and Lube and then accompanied the drivers and entourage back to the Children's Hospital. Four groups toured different floors and had the chance to meet and talk with the patients and present them with a holiday gift box.

Following the tour Buddy Ray Jones addressed the drivers and the hospital staff, "I'd like to thank you all for your time, help and donations." said Jones. "Sometimes we think we have problems in our life, but after seeing these kids and knowing what they are going through makes our problems seem small in comparison."

The total assessed value of the 2007 Holiday Horespower Drive was $24,789.26.

Labels: other racing news

Poor fencing, rules enforcement and driver age cited

By STEVE HORRELL , Edwardsville Intelligencer Today (Edwardsville, IL)
12/12/07

Man injured by flying tire at race

On the evening of June 4, 2004, Wayne Carson's life changed dramatically.

The 64-year-old diesel mechanic had been standing in the pit area at the Madison County Speedway in Highland when he was struck in the back of the head by a tire that had flown off one of the Hornet cars that had been racing on the oval dirt track

An ambulance nearby whisked him from the Madison County Fairgrounds at Lindendale Park down the road to St. Joseph's Hospital and for the next 33 days Carson split time between St. Louis University Trauma Center and St. Mary's Hospital.

The incident caused permanent brain damage, dizziness and memory loss, and Carson soon filed a lawsuit against the Madison County Fair Association, its treasurer and secretary Sue Zobrist and Charles DePew, who organizes and promotes races at the Highland track. The suit alleges that the 8-foot-tall fence protecting the pit area was not only in disrepair, it was too short to catch wheels and other car parts that might fly off during a race. During his opening statements, attorney Michael Bedesky countered that the fence was no different from pit fences at the region's other tracks in Godfrey, Greenville, Mount Vernon and Brownstown.

The race had been videotaped by a spectator, and Carson's attorney, Jon Carlson, showed the film to jurors on Tuesday morning, the first day of the trial. The film begins by showing several 4-cylinder Hornets jockeying for position around the quarter-mile track. About 2 1/2 minutes into the race, one of the cars loses its right front wheel. The video showed the tire spinning in the air to a height that experts later calculated to be 15 feet. The film did not capture the accident itself.

Copyright restrictions forbid posting the rest of the article, however you can read it all at this link.

Labels: other racing news

From Nebraska Motorplex:

The future of the I-80 corridor region is underway. Your feedback is important!


The Nebraska Innovation Zone Commission (NIZC) has embarked on the first phase of a regional comprehensive plan for the six county Omaha and Lincoln metropolitan regions (Washington, Douglas, Sarpy, Cass, Saunders and Lancaster Counties). This plan will formulate a targeted growth strategy for the region to guide development in a manner that promotes the best interests of the region and the entire State of Nebraska.

As part of the planning process, several topic specific focus groups shared their ideas for the future of the corridor. Topics included: agriculture, city interests, county interests, economic development, education, environmental protection, land interests, recreation, tourism and transportation. This survey will allow for additional input into the future of the region. (Unless otherwise specified, assume ‘area’ refers to the entire six county region.)

A drag racing facility would be an important tourism destination and entertainment venue for the state of Nebraska along this corridor. This type of facility would add greatly to the existing attractions between Lincoln and Omaha which will promote new opportunities for business and economic growth.

Please take a moment to complete this survey. Your input will be very important for the development and planning on building a Drag Racing facility along the I-80 corridor.

Click here for survey

Labels: other racing news

Beatrice Speedway will be hosting an informal "Meet & Greet" for Toby Kruse, Promoter, on Friday, November 23rd from 5:00 - 6:00pm at the Gage County Extension Office on the Fairgrounds.

The 2008 Racing season will be discussed in an open forum. Car Registration will be available for the classes, IMCA Modified; IMCA Hobby; IMCA Sport Compact; Limited; Factory Stock and Cruisers.

Anyone is welcome to attend.

Labels: other racing news

Saw this on the dirtdrivers.com message board. Beatrice Factory Stock driver Ernie Reiss gave his account of the incident. Ernie works in Law Enforcement.

"Good morning, everyone. Those of you that know me, know what I do for a living.

"Jerry Thomas" contacted me by email when I had my factory stock on DD for sale. I knew it was a scam as soon as I read his first email. The first thing you look for is grammar and sentence structure. I played him along, knowing it was a scam.

I advertised the car for $750 and he told me he would send me more money than that (of course, EVERYBODY does that ) I got an envelope from UPS containing three money orders, each in the amount of $890. The envelope had a return address in Mississippi. However, when I went to the UPS website and ran the tracking number, it originated in Washington State.

I then called the company that issued the money orders. Keep in mind, I looked these money orders over carefully and they looked genuine. I could not see any evidence of alterations. I gave the company the check numbers and found that one had been cancelled and never issued, one had been cashed in April for $90 and one cashed a week later for $235.

In the meantime, I get an email from the guy wanting his money as soon as possible. I told him I would send the money as soon as the checks cleared the bank. He periodically sent me emails and I wanted his money and I kept telling him to wait.

In the meantime, I think we've located either him or his friends overseas. If he's still doing his scams - which he MUST be - and he's reading this: Jerry, or whatever your name is, your days of scamming people are nearly at an end. You can run but you can't hide. We know where you live and some day soon we will meet. However, it would be for tea and crumpets. I will be presenting you with your own set of special bracelets and you will be getting your own little special room. "

Labels: other racing news

By The Lincoln Journal Star
Sunday, Sep 30, 2007 - 08:24:33 pm CDT

Thieves stole most of a Chevrolet racing engine, leaving just the
engine block, and police believe it occurred overnight Saturday.

The engine parts, valued at $7,000, were reported stolen Sunday
morning along with more than $5,000 in tools, according to Lincoln
Police reports. The items were in an enclosed car trailer, Lincoln
Police Capt. David Beggs said.

The total loss is estimated at about $12,125, which includes damage to
the trailer.

*UPDATE*

The equipment belongs to ATH Motorsports, better known as the #3 of
Chris Alcorn. Information on the equipment and contact is as follows:

Some of the items stolen are including but not limited to:

1/2 in. Snap-On Cordless Impact Wrench
3/8 in. Snap-On Cordless Impact Wrench
3/8 in. Milwaukee Cordless Impact Wrench
1/2 in. Milwaukee Cordless Drill
Milwaukee Flashlight
Craftsman Timing Light
Tap & Die Set
Craftsman Drill Bit Set
T-Handle Set
Craftsman Open End Wrench Set
Craftsman Socket Set 3/8 in.
Ideal – Digital Temperature Gauge
ADT – Harmonic Balancer Puller/Installer
4 in. Grinder
8 in. Milwaukee Grinder
Valve Spring Compressor
Tire Pressure Gauge
Various engine parts including:
Cylinder Heads
Intake Manifold
Water Pump – Pulleys and Belts
Crankshaft, Connecting Rods, Pistons
MSD - Ignition Box
MSD – Plug Wires
MSD – Blaster Coil
MSD – Distributor (x2)
Powermaster Starter w/Cables (x2)
KSE – Fuel/Oil Pump
Misc. Rocker Arms/Lifters/Pushrods

If any of you have any information on this theft, please call LPD
Officer M. Fluitt badge# 643 at 402 416-8998.

Also, Derick Noonan reports that he was robbed Saturday night of tools
and parts from his race and personal car.

It seems like we may have an epidemic. For those of you who "know a guy with a car" keep an eye peeled. If you drive by their house on your normal route home, slow down and take one more look. If you see anything suspicious, don't assume - call the police.

Labels: other racing news

From Gary Dominguez- President, Midwest Motorsports Promoting

With the rising costs of racing, and more and more tracks closing down, or
limiting their schedules and/or purses, it has become obvious racers need to
find better ways of supporting their racing machines. I have been telling
racers this for many years.

We are not just racers anymore. We wear many hats now including, but not
limited to; athlete, entertainer, role model, public Relations directors,
and businessmen. As with any business, we rely on income from our customers
to survive. Your sponsors are your customers. As with any business, your
decisions directly affect how you keep your customers.

With that, Midwest Motorsports Promoting is again offering a sponsorship
seminar to all racers of all classes of all tracks. This seminar teaches
techniques on how to market for, obtain, and retain your sponsors.

Before we set a time, date and cost to this, we would first like to find out
if there is an interest in this program. I would also like to hear feedback
from past alumni of the course, both sucesses and failures.

please e-mail us with your input at gary.dominguez@woodsbros.com

Thanks to all,

Gary Dominguez- President: Midwest Motorsports Promoting

Labels: other racing news

By Team Dover Media Relations

SPRINGFIELD, Neb. (September 12, 2007) -- Seventeen-year-old Nebraska sprint
car racer Jack Dover has secured his invitation to the ASCS / Wesmar
Challenge following last Friday night's ASCS Midwest Region event at US 36
Raceway in Osborn, MO. Dover raced from the 13th starting spot in the A
feature to a solid second place finish on the high-banked 3/8 mile oval.

The 25-lap feature at US 36 was plagued with multipule yellow and red flags.
Throughout the feature Dover stayed out of trouble and moved forward in the
field, taking the runner-up spot from 2006 ASCS Midwest champion Toby
Chapman on the final lap.

The ASCS / Wesmar Challenge will be held at Devil's Bowl Speedway in
Mesquite, TX, on October 13, the final night of the 34th Annual O'Reilly
Winter Nationals. The top two point earners from each ASCS Region along with
the top O'Reilly ASCoT National competitors will battle it out for a new
Wesmar Racing Engine.

Team Dover would like to thank all their 2007 Sponsors: 3 D Auto Transport,
Inc. Trail Performance Powder Coating, Keizer Aluminum Wheels, Eckley Racing
Engines, Eagle Chassis, Langfelt Overhead Doors, Thorpes Body Shop, RMS,
Chad Nolte Repair, NOS Energy Drink and Culver Construction.

For more information about Jack Dover please visit www.JackDover.com

Labels: other racing news

By Jane White/Daily Sun sports editor
Thursday, August 30, 2007 9:25 AM CDT

When the Beatrice Speedway decided to say thank-you to racing supporter Garold Kleveland recently, it did so in a big way - a 40-foot way that is.

Saturday night as the Beatrice Speedway celebrated its 50th anniversary, Kleveland was honored during intermission for his years of service to the local racing community.

“Garold Kleveland has been a big part of Beatrice Speedway since Aug. 25, 1957,” Beatrice Speedway promoter Tim Fralin said. “He's supplied a wrecker and crew to every race we've had at the Speedway since that date.

“I don't know what we'd do without him.”

The Speedway's way of “saying thank you” to Kleveland was to honor him during the anniversary celebration and to name the catwalk in the back pit area after him.

Along with all of the other things he'd done for the race track over the years, Kleveland helped with the construction of the original section of the catwalk, which has since been added to.

“We made a 40-foot long sign and we're naming the catwalk after Garold,” Fralin said. “That's just a small step toward the appreciation he really deserves.”

Fralin said it was time to recognize Kleveland and track officials believed there was no better time than on the 50th anniversary of the Speedway.

Kleveland said he was “surprised” by the honor.

“I was really surprised,” Kleveland said, adding his family knew about the recognition, but didn't let him in on it. “Everybody kept everything pretty secretive.”

While Kleveland said the catwalk has been a nice addition to the pits and a bonus for those wanting to watch the races from the track's backstretch, he admits he's never seen a race from there.


“I've never watched a race from the grandstand, either,” Kleveland said, adding he “pits” with his wrecker along with the race car drivers on the track's infield.

From their spots inside the track, Fralin said Kleveland and his volunteer crew are always ready and waiting to help.

“On any given night, Garold has three to six trucks out here,” Fralin said. “If we had to pay for that by the hour, the cost would be astronomical, especially over 50 years.

“To have him supply that for us at no cost every week is incredible.”

Fralin said Kleveland is “always there” when the racers need him, whether it's to tow their car off the race track or help load the car when they are ready to go home.

“If you need something after the races or you need a ride home, they'll tow your car,” Fralin said. “They've done it for numerous drivers out here over the years.”

Aside from the equipment and manpower he and his crew provide, Fralin said Kleveland also brings a lot of knowledge to the racetrack each week.

“When you've been at it as long as Garold, there's probably nothing anybody could teach him,” Fralin said.

Fralin said Kleveland always finds a way to get the job done with the least amount of damage to the race cars involved.

“We've seen him do the two wrecker bit where one is going backwards because there's no wheels on the car or it's incapable of moving,” Fralin said. “When you're hanging a car in mid air and hauling it with two wreckers, it takes special effort.

“They take good care of the equipment when they take it off the track. They don't just hook on and pull it off. They treat it like their own.”

As a former racer at the Beatrice Speedway, Fralin said “more than once” he's been taken off the track on the hook of one of Kleveland's wreckers.

“It means a lot when they show respect for your equipment,” Fralin said.

Along with taking care of their primary duties of pushing and towing race cars, Fralin said Kleveland and crew are always willing to help safety crews when needed in critical situations.

“They're always right on the spot,” Fralin said. “If somebody is hurt, they'll lend a hand if needed.”

Fralin said Kleveland's crews have helped cut drivers out of cars after wrecks.

Although races had previously been held at another location in Beatrice, the first races at the current Beatrice Speedway, located on the Gage County Fairgrounds, were held Aug. 25, 1957.

Kleveland and his wrecker crews have been a mainstay at the track since that time. He was previously honored by the racing community when the Beatrice Speedway Hall of Fame recognized its first class in 2002 and he was one of five individuals inducted.

When the track first opened, Kleveland said “everyone” was anxious to help. He said each race night there were multiple push tracks and pack trucks helping with the racing program.

Kleveland said he and his family were “new in town” when he first started volunteering at the former race track at the old fairgrounds in 1955.

In the early days, Kleveland said everybody who had a wrecker or push truck was at the track on race night.

“I don't know if we were ever really asked to get involved or if we just wanted to be part of it,” Kleveland said.

When he first started working the races, Kleveland said he had an old panel track, which he used as a push truck. The earlier-day race cars, including models like the 1932 Plymouth, had to be “pushed” to start Kleveland said, and it took a number of push trucks just to get races started.

Kleveland bought his first wrecker in 1959 and immediately started taking it to the race track.

There have been many positive changes in racing since he first started working at the track, Kleveland said. He said all of the safety equipment at the Speedway has improved greatly over the past 50 years.

Kleveland said radios, which help the safety crews stay in contact with each other, were one improvement.

Over the years, Kleveland said his “duties” at the race track had changed.

“Now, the four-wheelers do the majority of the pushing,” Kleveland said. “They're quicker and they're more maneuverable.”

Another positive addition was when fire trucks were first used at the track.

“We used to carry a fire extinguisher in our old power wagon,” Kleveland said. “But that was slow and we were dumb. We didn't have near the safety features we have now.”

Kleveland said track fire crews are now specially trained in how to handle situations on the race track.

“Having the fire truck and the ambulance there has taken a lot of responsibility off us,” Kleveland said.

Driver's safety, however, is always Kleveland's first concern, though.

The incidents he remembers most over the years at the Speedway have involved driver injuries, including having to extricate drivers from their cars.

Watching and helping other rescue personnel work to free drivers from wrecks has prompted Kleveland to add to the equipment he brings to the race track.

Pipe cutters, which can be used to take the tops off race cars and free drivers, were one addition he's made over the years.

“It all evolves from just the experience of things happening,” Kleveland said.

Kleveland said track officials have been proactive in “getting things done” when safety issues need to be addressed.

Kleveland said a lot of people, include Gage County Ag Society members, volunteer their time at the Speedway week after week all summer long and work to make racing a good experience for all involved.

“You have to have a respect for what they're doing,” Kleveland said.

Racing has done a lot for the Beatrice community, Kleveland said, and to be a “rung” in its ladder is nice.

“The races bring a lot of commerce to our town,” Kleveland said. “I don't know that all of the town people realize that to the degree it is.”

While his most recent honor was special, Kleveland said his biggest reward over the last 50-plus years has been in the friendships he's made with drivers, their crews and others at the local Speedway.

“Everybody tries to help each other,” Kleveland said. “The biggest share of the drivers and their crews are real appreciative and that makes it fun.”

Labels: other racing news

TULSA, Okla. (August 24, 2007) – The first edition of "ASCS Prime Time", covering all aspects of the American Sprint Car Series, will air next Tuesday night, August 28, at 8:00 p.m. CDT on www.kmacsports.com.

"ASCS Prime Time" will be a weekly show featuring discussion with and among drivers, officials and fans of the American Sprint Car Series from throughout the nation. The hour-long show will also be archived so those that miss out on the live version can listen to all the happenings at their convenience.

"This is great for K-MAC Sports but it's really great for ASCS fans, drivers and officials," ASCS Prime Time host Sarge Masom stated. "Because the K-MAC Sports broadcast site can be accessed by most anyone with access to a computer and the Internet, the ASCS show will allow series fans, drivers and team members to hear the show either live or via replay."

The show will run for 8-9 weeks every Tuesday at 8:00 p.m. central time. There are ongoing talks between ASCS officials and K-MAC Sports about possible post-season shows and race broadcasts.

"This really helps us take another step towards our goal of bringing some much-deserved and much-needed publicity to the dirt racing community," K-MAC Sports co-owner Chuck Licata said. "We're honored to have the confidence of Lonnie Wheatley and ASCS officials and we look forward to providing a quality program for all the followers of the series."

ASCS followers will be able to participate each week by calling in to the show at 1-877-786-KMAC or by e-mailing the show at ascs@kmacsports.com.

Guests for the initial installment of "ASCS Prime Time" will be finalized over the weekend and announced early next week, so make plans now to dial your computer in to www.kmacsports.com on Tuesday night, August 28, for "ASCS Prime Time".

Additional information regarding the American Sprint Car Series is available at www.ascsracing.com.

Labels: other racing news

Video, computers and the Web are changing the auto racing experience for Iowa's drivers, promoters and fans

REGISTER SPOTLIGHT: TECHNOLOGY AND MOTORSPORTS

ROB GRAY
REGISTER STAFF WRITER


Cars roar, mouses click.

Iowa race tracks and drivers — from the deepest grassroots to the most high-profile levels — are increasingly finding ways to use technology to get the word out about their sport.

A growing number of racers, such as Joe Zadina of Corning, adorn their dirt cars with cameras in an effort to convey to sponsors, friends and the world - via Web sites such as YouTube - the experience of powering a stock car through Iowa's rich dirt.

"When you're sitting up in the grandstands, the view's a little different than when you're in a race car," said Zadina, who drives in the pro streets class at Adams County Speedway.

"I mounted a camera on my helmet to kind of show (car owner Ross Griffith) what it was like to be in the car."

Race tracks such as Knoxville Raceway have so embraced Internet technology that this year 40 percent of the 90,000-plus tickets sold for the Knoxville Nationals sprint-car gala were sold online.

Three years ago, that number sat at zero.

On the national stage, meanwhile, racing continues to climb the high-tech ladder.

NASCAR and the Indy Racing League offer live Webcasts of select events.

ESPN's coverage of NASCAR includes a "Draft Cam," a view that graphically illustrates how "clean" or "dirty" the air is for a car in a race.

The message for racetrack promoters and racers alike is clear: "Ignore these developments at your own peril," said Iowa Speedway vice president and general manager Craig Armstrong.

The rest of a long, but interesting article is here: Auto Racing Technology Accelerates - Des Moines Register

Labels: other racing news