Thursday, November 30, 2006

Northern Ohio Sprint Car Show

HoserVille Ohio, in conjunction with the Northern OhioSprint Car Show, is pleased to announce the date forthe 4th annual HoserVille Ohio benefit auction. Theauction will take place March 24th, 2007 at the Tiffin(OH) Mall from 3 PM to 5 PM. HoserVille OhioPresident, Duane Hancock, stated "We have found a newhome for our annual benefit auction at the NorthernOhio Sprint Car Show. Scoop rolled the red carpet outfor us last year. We look forward to continuing astrong relationship with Scoop and his car show."

HoserVille Ohio is a registered non-profitorganization dedicated to raising funds for injuredsprint car drivers racing in the state of Ohio.HoserVille Ohio has awarded over $7000 to injureddrivers in the organization's short 3 year history.For more information visit www.hoservilleohio.com ore-mail: info@hoservilleohio.com

Linder's Speed Equipment Sale!

Rock bottom pricing on DMI equipment at Linder’s Speed Equipment.
Jim Linder is happy to announce the continuation of the sale prices everyone saw at the recent Fremont Swap Meet. DMI hubs, spindles, torque tubes and more will be on sale until January 1, 2007. For information and pricing please call Jim at 419-334-3737 from 10-5 seven days a week. Linder’s Speed Equipment is also full service J and J Auto Racing dealer along with complete sales and service, including rebuilding of Pro Shocks.

Zeake Media
Linder’s Speed Equipment

Saturday, November 25, 2006

DARF Plans Banquet of Champions by Jerry Wahl

by Jerry Wahl

Dayton, OH. (11-25) - The Dayton Auto Racing Fan Club has scheduled their 37th annual "Banquet of Champions" for Saturday night, December 2, at the Conover Hall, 285 Conover Drive, Franklin, Ohio with the doors opening at 6 p.m..

Highlighting the night will be the honoring of 2006 track champions from Kil-Kare Speedway, Lawrenceburg Speedway, Columbus Motor Speedway, Salem Speedway, Shady Bowl Speedway, Eldora Speedway, Mt.Lawn Speedway, Anderson Speedway. Limaland Motorsports Park, Flat Rock Speedway, 35 Raceway Park, Toledo Speedway, Gas City Speedway, and Union County Speedway plus the champions of the OVKA Karting Association.

Many special awards will be presented such as dirt and asphalt driver of the year, track announcer of the year, plus many other specialty awards. Tickets are now on sale on a first come first served basis at $25 each until November 25 after which they will be $30 each and can be purchased by sending a check to DARF, Box 641, Dayton, Ohio 45401 or by contacting DARF president Dan Hopp at 937 237-9254

Friday, November 24, 2006

Abby Lou Foundation holds 2nd Annual Fundraiser

The Abby Lou Foundation announced today that it will hold it's second annual fund raiser. Those interested in assisting the foundation may log onto www.abbylou.org and purchase a chance to win a deluxe home entertainment system. Tickets are just $10 each and there will only be 500 sold with the drawing to held 12/15/2006. The Home Entertainment System includes a 42" Plasma Television, a Sony 5 DVD 1,000 watt home theater system and a one year subscription to Dish Network. It would make the perfect Christmas gift.

The purpose of the Abby Lou Foundation is to lend a helping hand to families in paying their medical expenses associated with their child’s disability. We accept applications and upon approval we contact the families and discuss what the foundation can provide to them. In some cases the Abby Lou Foundation pays 100% of their expenses. Applications are reviewed upon the family's current insurance coverage and financial situation. Even if a family has insurance they are still eligible as the costs of deductibles and co-pays can be astronomical.

We had a tremendous amount of support last year from everyone with the Chopper, said founder Paul Joiner. We were able to help several families and want to be able to do that again this year. The Sprint car racing community has welcomed us with open arms and we thank them as well as all the drivers and teams that have generously lent us their time and gifts. Thank you in advance and good luck to all those that donate to our foundation and we look forward to seeing the fans beginning in February in Volusia for the World of Outlaws season opener. If you wish to purchase a ticket you may do so at www.abbylou.org or just make a donation. You can also mail a check or money order to the address on the site.

Paul W. Joiner III
Ideas & Images, Inc.
816-305-0450
www.ideasimages.com

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

Jeff Busby gets a new online look


Central PA racer Jeff Busby and the JOB Racing team would like to announce their newly re-designed web site by WRT Web Designs at http://jeffbusbyracing.com. The new site will serve as information-central for Jeff’s fans and supporters. The site will provide a schedule of Jeff’s appearances complete with his latest results. In addition, fans will be able to meet the crew, and get a closer look at the man behind the wheel. The site is finished off with some photos, a look at the sponsors, and portal to other great sites on the web.

Anyone who might have bookmarked the former site at http://jeffbusby.net should rest easy as both addresses provide a common path to Jeff’s new site.

Jeff and the 47J team are actively pursuing additional marketing partners that would allow them to expand their current schedule of events. The team currently looks to begin their 2007 season in Florida at East Bay Raceway and Volusia Speedway Park. Upon their return to Central PA, Jeff plans on running Lincoln Speedway on a regular basis, as well as a limited schedule of special events. A complete 2007 schedule will be released early in 2007.

Jeff and the team would like to take this opportunity to thank their returning sponsors for their support. Adorning the 47j in 2007 will be JOB Construction, Two-Na Time Charters, Jeff’s Tap Room, Shark’s Service Center, Scott’s Furniture, JB’s Masonry, Pet Poultry Products, HG Associates, DMI, Pro Shocks, Simpson Race Products, Lane Automotive, Weld Racing, and WRT Web Designs.

Friday, November 17, 2006

NORMANDY BANQUET CENTER TO HOST MERCER RACEWAY PARK’S BANQUET FOR 4TH STRAIGHT YEAR ON JANUARY 13


November 17, 2006 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mercer, PA…The Normandy Banquet Center will be the site of Mercer Raceway Park’s annual awards banquet and dinner for the fourth straight year. The facility will host the affair on Saturday, January 13, 2007. The Normandy Banquet Center, which is also the Hickory VFW Post 6166, is located on Route 62 just two miles east of Route 18 in Hermitage, Pa.

“We’re thrilled to be going back to the Normandy Banquet Center for our banquet again,” stated eighth year track owner Vicki Emig. “They’ve done a great job hosting the affair the last three years and have we’ve heard nothing but praise. The facility is top notch and the food is excellent. The location is perfect and it’s a short drive for the majority of our attendees.”

Three-time winner Bob Felmlee of Franklin, Pa. will celebrate his third RoadRunner & Lake Road Auto Sales Sprint Car Championship, which have come in three different decades (1989, 1998, & 2006). Mercer’s own Frank Guidace, who has competed and won in four different modified classes, won his first championship of any kind in the American Racer/Lias Tire Modifieds thanks to four wins. Brian Booher of Sandy Lake, Pa. became the first Stock Car driver since Alan Dellinger in 1997 & 1998 to win back-to-back championships thanks to 13 wins in the two years in the Tire Express-sponsored division. Rookie Bryan Wagner of New Wilmington, Pa. earned the Maurer’s Trading Post Strictly Stock title with seven victories.

Though they won’t be honored at the banquet, Todd Reusser captured the Micro Sprint title, Russ Dunn the E-Mods, and Andy Bordt won the “Gladiator Series” Demolition Derby points for the third time in five years.
Doors open at 5:30 with dinner at 6:30 p.m. The awards ceremony will follow dinner. The event is open to the public. Ticket information will be mailed in mid-December otherwise please contact the office if you are interesting in attending and we will send you a form.

Mercer Raceway Park is located minutes from both Interstate 79 and 80 just off Route 19 on Fairground Road in Mercer, Pa. Dirt track racing and quality family entertainment are presented weekly late March through September. The office in New Bedford, Pa. is open year-round Monday through Friday after 1 p.m. For more information call the office at 724-964-9300 or the track on race day at 724-662-1310. Check out our website at www.mercerracewaypark.com for the latest.





Final 2006 Mercer Raceway Park Point Standings


RoadRunner & Lake Road Auto Sales Sprint Cars: 1. BOB FELMLEE (Franklin, PA) 616 2. Arnie Kent (New Castle, PA) 592 3. Rod George (Kittanning, PA) 584 4. Rob Eyler (Franklin, PA) 567 5. Skip Dougherty (Fairmount City, PA) 473 6. Danny Holtgraver (Pittsburgh, PA) 415 7. Todd Bauer (Clarion, PA) 384 8. Tom Quarterson (West Middlesex, PA) 367 9. Riki Likowski (Hollis, NH) 355 10. Mike Dehner (Clarion, PA) 333.

American Racer/Lias Tire (358) Modifieds: 1. FRANK GUIDACE (Mercer, PA) 706 2. Mike Stine (Smithmill, PA) 703 3. Steve Young (Grove City, PA) 684 4. Kevin Hoffman (Franklin, PA) 669 5. Gary Smoker (Mercer, PA) 667 6. Jimmy Holden (Tiona, PA) 555 7. Brad Rapp (Shippenville, PA) 531 8. Matt Reeher (Volant, PA) 491 9. Garrett Krummert (New Castle, PA) 486 10. Kevin Green (New Castle, PA) 472.

Micro Sprints: 1. TODD REUSSER (Minerva, OH) 225 2. Jeff Bacha (Indiana, PA) 211 3. George Hobaugh (Karns City, PA) 170 4. J.J. Metheney (Forestville, PA) 169 5. Chris Best (Mercer, PA) 148 6. Mike Himes (Summerville, PA) 145 7. Mikey Schall (Elderton, PA) 144 8. Eric Williams (Greenville, PA) 138 9. Lindsay Enscoe (Petrolia, PA) 135 10. Steve Dunmire (Ford City, PA) 123.

Sunday, November 12, 2006

TRI-CITY SPEEDWAY 2006 SEASON REVIEW


TRI-CITY SPEEDWAY 2006 SEASON REVIEWby Brian Spaid

November 12, 2006

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FRANKLIN, PA …. Tri-City Speedway concluded its 11th consecutive season of dirt track action and the 2006 track champions will be honored on January 6th at the Rocky Grove Fire Hall near Franklin. Top drivers at the half-mile Venango County oval included Bob Felmlee (4 Your Car Connection Super Sprints), Kevin Bolland (Schwab’s Ford DIRT Modifieds), Brent Rhebergen (RPM Auto Sales/Shawgo Real Estate E Mods), Bobby Whitling (E.F. Rogers Plumbing & Heating Pro Stocks) and Jeff Manners (Klapec Auto Body Thundercars).

For the third time in his career, Bob Felmlee of Franklin, Pa., captured the Super Sprint championship at Tri-City. Driving his World of Wheels Maxim No. 6, Felmlee returned to action in 2005 nearly six years after his near fatal accident at the track. In 2006, Felmlee’s return was completed with a stellar season that included the track title at Mercer Raceway Park. At Tri-City, Felmlee notched six wins and 10 top five finishes in 13 events. He also scored four heat race wins. With four consecutive wins to end the season, Felmlee captured his third career title at Tri-City. His other championships occurred in 1996 and 1998. Todd Bauer finished second in the point standings ahead of Brent Covell and Rod George, who was the early point leader with three victories, but suffered from engine problems late in the season that relegated him to the sidelines and opened the door for Felmlee to snare the title. Gale Ruth Jr. rounded out the top five in points. Joining Felmlee and George in victory lane with single wins were Andy McKisson, Rob Eyler, Ed Lynch Jr., and Steve Kinser, who won the National Sprint Tour (NST) race on July 16th.

Kevin Bolland of New Brighton, Pa., scored his second career title at Tri-City in the DIRT Modified division. Piloting his Cintas Uniform/Bolland Machine/Brighton Hot Dog Shoppe Bicknell No. 777, Bolland earned four feature wins and nine top five finishes in 12 events, including the Kodiak Memorial on July 23rd. With 26 career feature wins at Tri-City, Bolland became the top winner in the division surpassing legends Lou Blaney and Ed Lynch. Bolland, who also won the track title in 2000, added six heat race wins to his point tally. The Tri-City championship completed an amazing season for Bolland, who also won the Lernerville Speedway and Big Block Modified Challenge Series titles, the latter an eight-race series run between Tri-City and Lernerville. Amidst his championship campaign, Bolland’s team ran with heavy hearts as his mother, Rosalie, was hospitalized all summer with leukemia, and she eventually succumbed to the disease in early September after Bolland secured his titles. Rex King finished second nearly matching Bolland’s statistics with four feature wins, but still ended up a bridesmaid for the third year in a row as Bolland was just a little bit more consistent than the Buckeye State favorite. Jeremiah Shingledecker, Joe Crawford and Chris Schiffer rounded out the top five in points. Shingledecker scored two wins while Russell King and Danny Johnson each earned one win. Russell King won the BRP Modified Tour Dick Rankin Memorial on May 28th. Johnson’s victory on August 6th was his first as the driver for team owner Dave Thompson. Johnson and Thompson teamed for several huge wins at the end of the season including the Syracuse Eckerd 200.

For the third time in his career, Brent Rhebergen of Clymer, N.Y., captured the E Mod track championship at Tri-City. After a year’s hiatus, the 2002 and 2003 champion returned to full-time action at Tri-City as a teammate to Shawn Shingledecker. Piloting Shingledecker’s Lucky Hills Golf Course/Madara Equipment Pierce No. 45S, Rhebergen scored four feature wins and 10 top five finishes in 13 events adding to his Tri-City E Mod win total (45). He also won two heat races. Shingledecker scored two feature wins and four heat race wins placing second to Rhebergen in the points and completing a great season for their team. Jim Frontz, David Atkinson and defending track champion Matt Lux rounded out the top five. Lux and Mike Potosky each scored three feature wins. Potosky captured the All Star 30 on September 3rd and the four-race Fame RV Center E Series title. Sharon Speedway champion Russ Dunn (1) was the only other feature winner.

After a winless 2005 season, Pro Stock star Bobby Whitling of Seneca, Pa., returned to Tri-City with a vengeance. Capturing five feature wins and 13 top five finishes in 16 events, Whitling won the track championship aboard his E&K Equipment/Dulaney’s Garage Chevrolet No. 7W. Whitling also earned eight heat race wins. He had to fend off the hard charging Doug Iorio II for his third title matching championship efforts from 1999 and 2002. Like Whitling, Iorio snagged five feature wins and eight heat race wins, but mechanical troubles in the second half of the season resulted in a couple of poor performances. As a result, Whitling snagged the title over Iorio. Dave Ferringer, Scott Myers and Jason Engles rounded out the top five point contenders. Ferringer captured four feature wins, including the 10th Annual CSOnline Applefest 100 on September 17th. Defending track champion Gerry Bruce and Andy Buckley each won once. Bruce subbed for rookie Jackson Humanic in the four-race William R. Karns Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning Detroit Iron Pro Stock Series, and won the series title to boot. Jeff Manners of Cherrytree, Pa., dominated the Thundercar division to capture his second career title in the class. Manners won the first Thundercar title at Tri-City in 2003. This season, Manners earned six feature wins and 12 top five finishes in 13 events along with four heat race wins in his Jerry’s Auto Repair/Cherrytree General Store Buick No. 16. Josh Seippel won three features, but was unable to catch Manners in the point chase. In another stellar performance, rookie Bill Myers won nine heat races and one feature race on his way to a third place finish in the points. Curt Bish Sr. and Charlie McMillen rounded out the top five. Other single feature winners included Bish, Bill Kluck Jr. and Eric Goldberg, who won the Apple Core 20 on September 17th.

In addition to the E Mod title, Brent Rhebergen won the 2006 Maloney Tool & Mold Hard Charger Award. It was Rhebergen’s first Hard Charger point title. With points accumulated from all divisions based on the number of positions a driver advances in the feature finish from his official starting spot, Ferringer beat defending DIRT Modified track champion Del Rougeux Jr. by one passing point (61-60). E Mod driver Mike Samuelson finished third in the Hard Charger points followed by Thundercar champion Jeff Manners and DIRT Modified driver Andy Priest.

All champions will be honored at the Tri-City Speedway season banquet on Saturday January 6th at the Rocky Grove Fire Hall in Rocky Grove, Pa., located about 6.5 miles from the track just outside Franklin. For banquet information and tickets, please contact the track office at (814) 473-4038.

TRI-CITY SPEEDWAY FINAL POINT STANDINGS 2006

SUPER SPRINTS: 1. Bob Felmlee (Franklin), 1,424; 2. Todd Bauer (Clarion), 1,326; 3. Brent Covell (Titusville), 1,181; 4. Rod George (Kittanning), 1,008; 5. Gale Ruth Jr. (Pleasantville), 991; 6. Andy McKisson (Strattanville), 988; 7. John Schuyler (Jamestown, NY), 951; 8. Russ Sansosti (Boardman, OH), 950; 9. Andy Priest (New Castle), 884; 10. Brent Matus (Wampum), 851. DIRT MODIFIEDS: 1. Kevin Bolland (New Brighton), 1,281; 2. Rex King (Bristolville, OH), 1,206; 3. Jeremiah Shingledecker (Polk), 1,131; 4. Joe Crawford (Polk), 1,107; 5. Chris Schiffer (Franklin), 1,087; 6. Andy Priest (New Castle), 1,075; 7. Del Rougeux Jr. (Frenchville), 1,056; 8. Dave Schrader (Endeavor), 1,017; 9. Dave Murdick (Slippery Rock), 1,002; 10. Chanda Reitz (Dempseytown), 946.

BIG BLOCK MODIFIED CHALLENGE SERIES: 1. Kevin Bolland (New Brighton), 935; 2. Rex King (Bristolville, OH), 862; 3. Russell King (Bristolville, OH), 790; 4. Del Rougeux Jr. (Frenchville), 762; 5. Tom Winkle (Mars), 736; 6. Joe Crawford (Polk), 727; 7. Dave Murdick (Slippery Rock), 629; 8. Chanda Reitz (Dempseytown), 608; 9. Jeremiah Shingledecker (Polk), 584; 10. Keith Swartzlander (Leechburg), 552.

E MODS: 1. Brent Rhebergen (Clymer, NY), 1,205; 2. Shawn Shingledecker (Franklin), 1,173; 3. Jim Frontz (Cambridge Springs), 1,053; 4. David Atkinson (Titusville), 996; 5. Matt Lux (Franklin), 992; 6. Russ Dempsey (Centerville), 973; 7. Carl McKinney (Cranberry Township), 962; 8. Mike Potosky (Guys Mills), 960; 9. Evan Taylor (Saltsburg), 949; 0. Jeff Taylor (Saltsburg), 917.

E SERIES: 1. Mike Potosky (Guys Mills), 442; 2. Shawn Shingledecker (Franklin), 433; 3. Brent Rhebergen (Clymer, NY), 426; 4. Russ Dempsey (Centerville), 363; 5. David Atkinson (Titusville), 348; 6. Jeff Taylor (Saltsburg), 347; 7. Evan Taylor (Saltsburg), 345; 8. Bruce Powell (Cochranton), 311; 9. Carl McKinney (Cranberry Township), 310; 10. Jason Johns (Oil City), 301.

PRO STOCKS: 1. Bobby Whitling (Seneca), 1,494; 2. Doug Iorio II (Kennerdell), 1,406; 3. Dave Ferringer (Cochranton), 1,361; 4. Scott Myers (Reno), 1,253; 5. Jason Engles (Franklin), 1,174; 6. Joe Lockhart (Seneca), 1,170; 7. Jackson Humanic (Titusville) and Rod Laskey (Seneca), 1,157 (tie); 9. Matt Thomas (Grand Valley), 1,120; 10. Chad Myers (Oil City), 1,112.

DETROIT IRON PRO STOCK SERIES: 1. Gerry Bruce (Franklin), 452; 2. Bobby Whitling (Seneca), 440; 3. Mike Pegher Jr. (Wexford), 436; 4. Dave Ferringer (Cochranton), 412; 5. Doug Iorio II (Kennerdell), 384; 6. Rod Laskey (Seneca), 375; 7. Denny Crawford (Cooperstown), 351; 8. Rusty Kellogg (Titusville), 342; 9. Matt Thomas (Grand Valley), 331; 10. Jason Engles (Franklin), 326.

THUNDERCARS: 1. Jeff Manners (Cherrytree), 1,375; 2. Josh Seippel (Franklin), 1,324; 3. Bill Myers (Seneca), 1,260; 4. Curt Bish Sr. (Dempseytown), 1,189; 5. Charlie McMillen (Oil City), 1,166; 6. Bill Kluck Jr. (Oil City), 1,112; 7. Joe Blake (Oil City), 1, 077; 8. Bill Winters (Cooperstown), 1,057; 9. Ed Deloe (Oil City), 1,053; 10. John K. Miller II (Oil City), 1,031.

HARD CHARGER: 1. Brent Rhebergen (Clymer, NY)(E), 61; 2. Del Rougeux Jr. (Frenchville)(M), 60; 3. Mike Samuelson (Conewango Valley, NY)(E), 53; 4. Jeff Manners (Cherrytree)(T), 50; 5. Andy Priest (New Castle)(M), 45; 6. Rex King (Bristolville, OH)(M), Rod Laskey (Seneca)(PS) and Chris Schiffer (Franklin)(M), 44 (tie); 9. Bob Felmlee (Franklin)(SS), 42; 10. Chanda Reitz (Dempseytown)(M), 39. Key: Super Sprints (SS), DIRT Modifieds (M), E Mods (E), Pro Stocks (PS), Thundercars (T).

Tri-City Speedway is owned and operated by Roger and Susie Crick and Mike and Margaret Graham. They have promoted Sunday night racing at the popular facility since they reopened it in 1996. The Super Sprints, DIRT Modifieds, E Mods, Pro Stocks and Thundercars race each week at the Venango County half-mile dirt oval. Tri-City is located seven miles north of Franklin, Pa., off State Route 417.

Wednesday, November 08, 2006

GUY GRIFFIN WINS SECOND CONSECUTIVE TITLE


HARTFORD, OH – (Nov. 8, 2006) Years ago, the racing community was adamant in the superstition that peanuts and the color green were “bad luck”. Whether you were actually superstitious or not, wearing or carrying anything green would result in a strict reprimand from seasoned race fans. But you would be hard-pressed to convince Greenville, PA’s, Guy Griffin that those suspicions are legitimate considering Griffin has wheeled his very green, #11 Green Flag Sprint to a second season point championship in as many years at Sharon Speedway. The mild-mannered Griffin has certainly dispelled that superstition!

Guy Griffin was born and raised in Greenville, PA, and attended Reynolds High School where he was a decorated athlete in both football and wrestling. In 1987, he landed his first full-time ride in a sprint car owned by Karl Brest of Kinsman, Ohio, and the team spent two years together, racing mainly at Buckeye Speedway in Orrville. Guy recalls winning only one heat race during that time, but says they did make every show. In 1989, Guy bought his own 410 Sprint from Ron Trevis and, unfortunately, wrecked it at the end of the year … and spent the next three years making payments on it! In ‘93, Griffin climbed into a micro-sprint, competing at Hickory Speedway in New Castle, and won the point championship that year for the micros. Two years later, he shifted gears and drove a 6-cylinder modified for Jim Rowe, then made another change and moved into big block Modified racing for Don Fair in 1996. He raced at Mercer and Sharon every week with Fair and won the Modified points at Mercer in 1997. Guy decided to be a driver/owner again and bought Fair’s car which he continued to race at Mercer and Sharon in ’98 and ’99. Griffin’s racing was put on hold during the 2000 and 2001 seasons and in 2002, he sporadically drove a car for Todd Shaffer at Mercer. In 2003, he bought another V8 Modified. In July of that year, Griffin was involved in a serious crash at Lernerville Speedway in Sarver, PA. Griffin said, “I always wanted to ride in a helicopter, but I didn’t even know I was in it!” Those who know Guy, know and appreciate his sense of humor, even in the most somber situations. The roof was cut from his modified to extract him from the mess and he was life-flighted to Allegheny Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA. He suffered a severe concussion with memory loss and dizziness. Thankfully, he completely recovered, but Guy’s racing was temporarily sidelined.

In 2004, Dave Blaney introduced a sealed engine racing program at Sharon Speedway with a new division called the Green Flag Sprints. The concept offers racers a low-cost alternative, not only to attract new drivers, but also for those who have been forced to quit racing due to escalating cost. This was the perfect match for Griffin. Not only could he get back into a sprint car, but he could do it on a limited budget and Guy was in!

Griffin drove his green machine to the 2005 point championship and followed up with a second “ace” in 2006. He only missed one feature event all season, and won 6 point race A-mains. He also scored his biggest win of the year taking home the $1500 winner’s purse on the first night of the Sharon Nationals. “That was my most memorable win of ‘06”, recalls Guy.

When asked how much time he spends working on his car, he replied, “I could spend every minute on it just because I love it! But honestly, we work on the car Tuesday and Thursday night from 4-6:00 and that’s it. There’s very little maintenance to it. My dad couldn’t believe it when I first started racing the Green Flag because we hardly worked on it.” Guy continues, “This is the greatest thing that has ever happened to me in racing. The pros outweigh the cons in this division. You can actually drive the car and work on the car and tweak things to make it handle better.” Guy can also attest to the durability of the engine. “We’re coming up on our fourth year to race this engine and we haven’t had anything done to it. The horsepower hasn’t gone down at all.” Guy’s crew consists of John Adams, Tom Kirby, Dan Horstman, Chris Mott and Larry Thurber, 3 of which help out at the garage. Guy credits his 2006 Championship title, “to my crew, and support from my family and friends and Stacey (girlfriend), of course. I’ve never had anyone in my corner like that.”

Guy would love to have the opportunity to race for a living and says “racing a sprint with the World of Outlaws,” would be his choice. “I think it’s still the grass roots of racing and I think dirt track racing is so much more exciting.” Guy works full-time for PennDot on the Bridge Crew.

Guy summarizes this year as “the best season we’ve ever had!” and adds, “and we haven’t wrecked a car in three years.” His parents were able to come to the races for the first time in seven years and he expressed his gratitude for the support of his daughter, Rachel, his sister and brother-in-law (Cheryl and Jerry Hazlett), his nephew, Curt Hazlett, girlfriend Stacey and daughters, Tiffany and Heather. He said, “It’s all about family. That’s all you have in life.” His only regrets were that his deceased brother and daughter couldn’t be here for this time in his life. Always the “fan-friendly” driver, Guy added a special thanks to the “Turn 4 Gang” who have become avid supporters over the past year. “It’s been a great year!” Griffin concluded.

Congratulations to Guy Griffin and the entire crew of the green #11 Green Flag Sprint.

Monday, November 06, 2006

AL HAMILTON-SUMMARY OF WINS

AL HAMILTON-SUMMARY OF WINS
1967
TRACK DRIVER WINS
Jennerstown Bill Bancik 1
Clearfield J.D. Lease 1

1968
Susquehanna Bobby Gerhart 1
Susquehanna Rick Schmelyun 1
Lincoln Rick Schmelyun 3
Hagerstown Rick Schmelyun 2

1969-1972
Selinsgrove Bobby Adamson 18
Port Royal Bobby Adamson 1
Williams Grove Bobby Adamson 7
Hagerstown Bobby Adamson 1
Jennerstown Bobby Adamson 1

1970
Clearfield Elmer Ruby 1

1971
Williams Grove Billy Cassella 1
Selinsgrove Billy Cassella 3
Port Royal Smokey Snellbaker 1

1972
Tampa, Fla. Billy Cassella 2
Susquehanna Lee Osborne 1
Selinsgrove Lee Osborne 1

1973
Port Royal Ed Zirkle 1
Selinsgrove Kramer Williamson 1

1974
Tampa, Fla. Kramer Williamson 1
Selinsgrove Kramer Williamson 1
Mansfield, Ohio Kramer Williamson 1
Williams Grove Kramer Williamson 1

1975
Tampa, Fla. Jan Opperman 2
Williams Grove Jan Opperman 1
Williams Grove Lynn Paxton 1
Port Royal Lynn Paxton 1
Port Royal Mitch Smith 1
Williams Grove Mitch Smith 1

1976
Selinsgrove Mitch Smith 13

1977
Port Royal Mitch Smith 9

1978
Selinsgrove Lynn Paxton 1
Port Royal Lynn Paxton 2
Williams Grove Lynn Paxton 6

1983-1986 and 1988
Williams Grove Keith Kauffman 24
Port Royal Keith Kauffman 31
Susquehanna Keith Kauffman 10
Selinsgrove Keith Kauffman 4
Hagerstown, Md. Keith Kauffman 7
Lincoln Keith Kauffman 3
Orange Co., NY Keith Kauffman 1
Bedford Keith Kauffman 1
Nazareth Keith Kauffman 1
Tri-City Keith Kauffman 1
Knoxville, Iowa Keith Kauffman 1

1989-1994
Williams Grove Stevie Smith 7
Lincoln Stevie Smith 1
Selinsgrove Stevie Smith 2
Port Royal Stevie Smith 2
Susquehanna Stevie Smith 4
Knoxville, Iowa Stevie Smith 4
Millstream, Ohio Stevie Smith 1
Roll. Wheels, NY Stevie Smith 2
Eldora, Ohio Stevie Smith 1
Kings, Calif. Stevie Smith 2
San Jose, Calif. Stevie Smith 3
Devil’s Bowl, Tex Stevie Smith 1
Bloomington, Ind. Stevie Smith 1
West Virginia Stevie Smith 1
Kokomo, Ind. Stevie Smith 2
Calistoga, Calif. Stevie Smith 1
Fremont, Ohio Stevie Smith 1
Black Hills, SD Stevie Smith 1
Santa Maria, Calif. Stevie Smith 1
Chico, Calif. Stevie Smith 1
Lernerville Stevie Smith 1
St. Augustine, Fla. Stevie Smith 1
East Bay, Fla. Stevie Smith 1
Hutchinson, Kan. Stevie Smith 1
Attica, Ohio Stevie Smith 1

1995
Knoxville, Iowa Danny Lasoski 1
King’s, Calif. Danny Lasoski 1
Calistoga, Calif. Danny Lasoski 1

1996
Selinsgrove Dave Calaman 1

1996-2001
Selinsgrove Fred Rahmer 27
Susquehanna Fred Rahmer 1
Lincoln Fred Rahmer 68
Williams Grove Fred Rahmer 27
Bridgeport, N.J. Fred Rahmer 1
Port Royal Fred Rahmer 7
Delmar, Del. Fred Rahmer 2
East Windsor, N.J. Fred Rahmer 1
Sharon, Ohio Fred Rahmer 1
Challenger Fred Rahmer 1
Grandview Fred Rahmer 2
Lernerville Fred Rahmer 1
Silver Spring Fred Rahmer 2
Hagerstown, Md. Fred Rahmer 1
Trail-Ways Fred Rahmer 1

2001-2004
Hagerstown, Md. Lance Dewease 1
East Bay, Fla. Lance Dewease 2
Putnam Co., Fla. Lance Dewease 1
Volusia Co., Fla. Lance Dewease 2
Williams Grove Lance Dewease 10
Lincoln Lance Dewease 13
Grandview Lance Dewease 2
Port Royal Lance Dewease 5
Selinsgrove Lance Dewease 1
Knoxville, Iowa Lance Dewease 1
Oskaloosa, Iowa Lance Dewease 1
Susquehanna Lance Dewease 5

2005
Selinsgrove Greg Hodnett 1
Susquehanna Greg Hodnett 4
Bedford Greg Hodnett 1
Lincoln Greg Hodnett 4
Big Diamond Greg Hodnett 1
Williams Grove Greg Hodnett 1
Hagerstown Greg Hodnett 1

2006
Lincoln Greg Hodnett 2
Williams Grove Greg Hodnett 4
Susquehanna Greg Hodnett 3
Williams Grove Todd Shaffer 1
Grandview Billy Pauch 1
Lincoln Fred Rahmer 1

Response Overwhelmingly Positive To Sprints At WCS in '07

Orrville, OH --- When management of Wayne County Speedway in Orrville, OH held an exploratory meeting with Sprint Car drivers and team owners on October 24 they entered the meeting with some trepidation regarding what kind of response they would receive. It was for naught as the meeting surpassed all expectations and was a positive and enlightening evening that subsequently found management making the decision to bring back Sprint Cars to the popular 3/8 mile banked oval on a weekly basis in 2007. What management also didn’t really expect was the overwhelming positive response that decision would bring from not only teams and race fans in the region but from also across the country.

“I still having a hard time believing the response from everyone, it's been so positive and everyone is so excited about it,” stated Tina Heil, General Manager of WCS. “I'm getting email every day, from business men, car owners, drivers and fans showing their appreciation of what we're doing and that's exciting.”

“Was this the right decision? Absolutely without a doubt in my mind!”With Sprint Car racing struggling in some areas of the country, WCS owner & promoter Ernie Coffman made a three-year commitment to the division in hopes of building it long term at his track and the response from within the industry was immediate and positive as well.
”Sprint car racing is one of the most exciting forms of motorsports out there and for Wayne County Speedway to bring Sprint Cars back into its weekly program is a bonus for all the fans who attend the weekly events,” commented Chris Dolack, Vice-President of Public Relations for DIRT Motorsports and the World of Outlaws Sprint Cars. “With so many of the legends in the sport having raced there in the past and living nearby, like Brad Doty and Jac Haudenschild, it's a great chance for the next wave of superstars to get their starts at a place that helped to launch the careers of so many others.”

“Whether the sprint cars at Wayne County run under in a sanctioned event or during a weekly race, merely having them back and racing weekly is a big step forward.”

Dolack wasn’t alone in his excitement that WCS was backing the Sprint Car division.

“It is very exciting news, especially at a time when we are all-too-frequently losing weekly winged 410-cubic-inch sprint car tracks,” offered Tom Schmeh, the Executive Director of the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame & Museum in Knoxville, Iowa.

“I believe this means that Wayne County Speedway will be the 21st weekly winged '410' track in the nation. Incredibly, five of those tracks are in the Buckeye State alone. And twelve are in the Pennsylvania/Ohio region, with 15 of the total 21 located east of the Mississippi River!”

Regional response has also been extremely favorable. “I am glad to see the Sprints come back,” said Jim Figley, Team Manager for Eric ‘Spud’ Myers Racing, a dirt Late Model team. Figley formerly spent many years working for such Sprint Car stars as Dean Jacobs, Rocky Hodges and others. “Wayne County Speedway is trying things that they feel will work best for everybody!”

“I think this is very smart,” commented Colleen Latsch, a former WCS staff member and wife of retired Sprint Car driver Mike Latsch, the 1987 WCS Sprint Car champion. “There are many Sprint Cars in this area or those having the parts to build one up to run locally again. With a no engine limit, there should be a good selection of cars who need a place to run locally.”

“I know people who no longer attend the local tracks as they do not run Sprints. Wayne County always had a good solid core of weekly sprint cars who put on an exciting show for the fans. I have heard several including myself say I do not mind the admission price as long as I can see both Sprints and Late Models on the evenings program.”

“I’m happy to see that they are coming back,” added long time race fan Gary Baker.

Even WCS staff members are looking forward to the 2007 with the addition of Sprint Cars as co-headliners with the Super Late Models. “It’s great to hear the Sprints are coming back in 2007,” said Al Hutchsion, Jr., a photographer. “I grew up at WayneCounty watching Sprints and Late Models and I sure have missed them these pastthree years. They put on a heck of a show when they returned one night thisyear. Great news to hear they are coming back. I’m really ready to takesome photos now!”

Wayne County Speedway is located nine miles east of Wooster, OH on US Route 30 or 15 miles west of Massillon, OH on US Route 30 then one mile north on Carr Road. For more information contact: 330.682.7435 (track), 419.522.8761 (office) or GM Tina Heil can be contacted at her office at: 330.642.0269 or via email at: tinaheil@zoominternet.net For more information on WCS visit: www.waynecountyspeedway.com -Prepared by Lehman Motorsports Services

TRI-CITY SPEEDWAY WILL RETURN TO ACTION IN 2007 WITH THE SAME DIVISIONS

TRI-CITY SPEEDWAY WILL RETURN TO ACTION IN 2007 WITH THE SAME DIVISIONS
by Brian Spaid
November 5, 2006

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FRANKLIN, PA .. Despite numerous rumors to the contrary, Tri-City Speedwaywill return to action in 2007 with the same five divisions that have comprisedthe weekly Sunday night show at the Venango County half-mile oval since 2003.

The Super Sprints, DIRT Modifieds, E Mods, Pro Stocks and Thundercars will beback next season, and weekly racing is tentatively scheduled to start on SundayApril 29th. "We are aware that a lot of rumors are circulating throughout the racingcommunity about the return of the Late Models to Tri-City," said Co-PromoterMike Graham. "However, we believe our current five-division show providesquality racing action each Sunday night for our race fans, and we intend to keepthings the same for now."

Interest in the Late Model division has increased at Tri-City, especiallywith the success of the World of Outlaws Late Model Series events at the track.The apparent popularity of the class is not lost on Graham and his fellowpromoter Roger Crick. "We are always looking at our options for our weekly shows, and the LateModels are an intriguing prospect," said Graham. "We have been approached by onepotential sponsor that could result in some additional Late Model events in2007, but that effort is in its preliminary stages right now."

Graham has already contacted officials of the World of Outlaws Late ModelSeries in order to schedule the two-day Oil Region Labor Day Classic on Saturdayand Sunday September 1st and 2nd. In addition, work continues on plans for the 2006 season banquet scheduled onSaturday January 6th at the Rocky Grove Fire Hall in Franklin. Sponsorshipcontracts are also still under negotiation for the upcoming season.

"There is always work to do to keep Tri-City in operation," said Graham."Many people may not realize that the work never stops after the final checkeredflag of the season at any race track. We're still in the planning stages of ourschedule for next year, which will be released in February. We are mainlyfocused on sponsorship deals at this time."

Tri-City Speedway is owned and operated by Roger and Susie Crick and Mike andMargaret Graham. They have promoted Sunday night racing at the popular facilitysince they reopened it in 1996. The Super Sprints, DIRT Modifieds, E Mods, ProStocks and Thundercars race each week at the Venango County half-mile dirt oval.Tri-City is located seven miles north of Franklin, Pa., off State Route 417.

Thursday, November 02, 2006

MARK SPENCE BENEFIT HAM DINNER NOVEMBER 12; TICKETS & HAM DONATIONS BEING ACCEPTED THROUGH MERCER RACEWAY PARK OFFICE

MARK SPENCE BENEFIT HAM DINNER NOVEMBER 12; TICKETS & HAM DONATIONS BEING ACCEPTED THROUGH MERCER RACEWAY PARK OFFICE
By Mike Leone

November 2, 2006 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mercer, PA…Mercer Raceway Park official and former racer Mark Spence is facing a difficult period in his life as he was recently diagnosed with throat cancer. Spence of nearby Jackson Center, Pa. formerly raced Micro Sprints, Sprint Cars, and Modifieds before being part of the Mercer track crew, maintaining the equipment, as well as his role as the assistant flagman.

A benefit ham dinner will be held on Sunday, November 12 at the Stoneboro (PA) Fire Hall between 2:00 and 5:00 p.m. Tickets are $5 and available at our office in New Bedford. Also $20 donations are being accepted to help defray the cost of the hams, which will allow more of the proceeds from the dinner to go to Mark. Donors will be recognized at the dinner and through a personal card that will be given to Mark’s family.
Checks can be made out to Mercer Raceway Park and sent to 4368 Route 422, Pulaski, PA 16143. We will then return your tickets by mail. If you have any questions or want to help out in this project, please call our office daily after 1 p.m. at 724-964-9300.

Please come out to show your support and friendship to Mark during this event as we’re sure nothing could lift his spirits more than seeing the faces of his friends that he has enjoyed working with over the past several seasons at Mercer Raceway Park. Your cooperation in helping us spread the word throughout the racing fraternity will be greatly appreciated.

Mercer Raceway Park held its first auto race on July 26, 1951 and is located minutes from both Interstate 79 and 80 just off Route 19 on Fairground Road in Mercer, Pa. Dirt track racing and quality family entertainment are presented weekly late March through September. The office in New Bedford, Pa. is open year-round Monday through Friday after 1:00 p.m. For more information call the office at 724-964-9300 or the track on race day at 724-662-1310. Check out our website at www.mercerracewaypark.com for the latest