Keepin' it Real

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Gater News - July 2nd, 2009

People think it’s easy.  As you read this, it’s been almost two weeks since I’ve seen any races, and I’m starting to get itchy.  A mid-season hiatus from racing for me due to our daughter Chelsea’s high school graduation ( and big party - thanks to everyone who made it!), and an Independence Day party with some friends in New Jersey have kept me away from the tracks.  Sure, I miss the races, but there is certainly life outside of racing.  It took me a long time to figure that out, but that’s part of why I no longer race full time.  I’ll be happy to get back to see my racing buddies in another week or so.
 
 ----  This week’s Oswego Speedway holiday race should be pretty exciting.  It’s the Burritt Motors and Davis Brothers Memorial Night.  The racing will consist of the Jim Shampine Memorial Super 58, the Tony White Memorial SBS 34, Midstate Antique Modifieds, and a great Fireworks display.  Also, the Domicolo & Barlow Band will be playing after the races.  A kids autograph session will start the night at 5:45. 
 
 ----  The BIG ONE is coming up next week, though!  Oswego Speedway’s website is billing it as the “Richest Winged Super payday in history”.  Here’s the press release, posted on the speedway website on June 24th…  “Four months of hype are just about over as the first ever $10,000 to win “King of Wings” supermodified event is set for the Oswego Speedway on Saturday July 11th. Thirty eight race teams from MSA, ISMA and the Oswego Speedway have pre-registered and are set to do battle for the richest first place check ever offered for winged supermodifieds. The historic racing night is sponsored by Burkes Do-It Best Home Centers, Community Bank, N.A. and AT&T.  As the month of June passes into July each group of teams will have one last race before the big July 11th date at the Oswego Speedway. MSA will have done battle at Sandusky Speedway in Ohio on June 27th, Oswego teams will have run the Jim Shampine Memorial on July 4th and ISMA will have run their annual Tuesday night affair at Stafford Motor Speedway in Connecticut on July 7th. Each of these events will serve as one last chance for the thirty eight pre-registered teams to get their equipment ready to chase that big $10,000 check at the Oswego Speedway on July 11th.
 
 ----  This MSA sanctioned event has drawn a great cross sample from all three racing groups that represent the very best supermodified drivers in North America. It is expected that some additional Oswego regulars will join the field on race day along with some New England area ISMA teams that would be heading to Cayuga Speedway in Canada for a scheduled ISMA race on Sunday afternoon July 12th. The car count on hand in the infield of the Oswego Speedway for the “King of Wings” event is likely to exceed forty supermodifieds and set a regular season record.  The weekend kicks off at 6:00 on Friday night July 10th with the annual WSEN & Syracuse Nationals Mid-Summer Super Cruise and Party in the Pits. Saturday morning at 10:00 it’s the 2009 Days Inn & Scottish Inns Old Timers Reunion behind the back grandstands. After the reunion ends at 4:00 the action shifts into the speedway as the front and back grandstands open and race team practice begins. The PathFinder Bank SBS Series will be in competition, running a regular 30 lap feature with an extra large first place check of $1,000.
 
 ----  A win in the “King of Wings” event will trigger a $20,000 bonus available only to that driver if he comes back to the Oswego Speedway on Saturday August 1st and wins the 23rd annual non-winged “Mr. Novelis Supermodified” event. Both wins will pay $10,000 each and that driver will then collect the $20,000 AT&T “Rollover Bonus” making his payday a cool $40,000 for the two wins. The driver can compete in each race in different cars of he chooses. It all starts with the richest winged supermodified first place check in history at the Burkes Do-It Best Home Centers, Community Bank, N.A. and AT&T “King of Wings” event at the Oswego Speedway on July 11th.
 
 ----  Go to the website at www.oswegospeedway.com for a list of the thirty eight pre-registered drivers.  I won’t be surprised if this list is well over 40 cars by the time you read it, or by the time of the race.
 
 ----  My crystal ball has been working pretty well this season.  I was looking at my pre-season predictions, and it looks like I’m doing pretty well.  Check this out…
 
 ----  Supermodified top eleven, listed in the order I picked them, followed by where they actually are as of today: 
11th - Okay, this was my biggest miss.  I picked Stephen Gioia III to finish 11th, but he’s currently in 5th.
10th - Jason Spaulding is 13th, but he won’t be staying there.
9th - Bob  Magner - he is 9th.
8th - Ray Graham - right on again.  He’s 8th.
7th - Tim Snyder - he’s 6th.
6th - Jerry Curran - he’s 7th.
5th - My other mistake.  I didn’t know he was going to skip a race.  Greg Furlong is 11th.
4th - Pat Lavery. - Exactly.
3rd - Otto Sitterly - he’s 1st.
2nd - Doug Didero - Exactly again.
1st - Joey Payne - He’s 3rd right now.
 
 ----  I did even better with the small block supermodified s:
10th - Barry Kingsley is 14th.  Thanks for screwing me, Barry!
9th - Dave Danzer - Missed by one. He’s 8th.
8th - Jack Patrick - Off by one again.  He’s 9th.
7th - Rob Pullen - He’s 10th right now.
6th - Kevin Knopp - Off by one again.  He’s 5th.
5th - Brian Sobus - He’s 7th.
4th - Dave Cliff - He’s in 3rd.
3rd - Mike Bond - He’s 2nd.
2nd - Dave Gruel - He’s in 1st.
1st - Russ Brown - He’s 4th right now.
 
 ----  Pretty good, huh?  Maybe I should predict my next finish as a driver….
 
 ----   Bobby Bond is still in pretty rough shape after his supermodified accident in the ISMA race at Toledo Speedway on June 12th.  Bond was in a hard crash on lap 48 of the event, when he tangled with Rich Reid.  He hit the wall so hard that his right front tire was ripped off, but was still attached by a tether, that crushed the foot box area, pinning his foot.  Bond hobbled to our grad party on crutches last week, and I resisted picking on him.  He’ll be down for awhile, as he’s also out of work due to his injuries.  Maybe he should take up basket weaving.
 
 ----  I’m disappointed that Lou LeVea Sr. has parted from the supermodified ride in the Coon-France Motorsports #03, after a disagreement between Lou and the car owners Mike France and Dick Coon. Their last race as a team was a MSA winged race at Lorain County Speedway in Ohio.  Lou Jr. will continue to drive the #04, with an eye on the rookie of the year title.  It’s none of my business what happened with the team, but it’s a shame to see them split.  LeVea really put the team on the map last year with a solid, consistent season, and an 8th place finish in the points.  Lou also won the rookie of the year honors with his performance.
 
 ----  Thanks to everyone for the kind words about my recent column and blog about Father’s Day a couple of weeks ago.  I apparently touched a lot of people with my words, and I thank everyone who talked to me about it.  If you missed it, you can find it www.gaternews.com

 

Gater News - June 24th, 2009

The small block supermodified drivers found a way to fill the two week hiatus while Oswego Speedway is shuttered.  Last Friday, a NORA sanctioned small block supermodified race took place at Spencer Speedway, in Williamson, N.Y.
 
 ----  Let’s see if you can guess who won our feature at Spencer.  I’ll give you a hint:  it’s the same guy that always wins.
 
 ----  Dave Gruel has now won four out of the five small block supermodified races that have been run this year.  And if you go back to last year, he’s now five of six.  If it wasn’t for Mike Bond, this division would be known as “the Dave Gruel Supermodifieds”. In spite of his awesome roll though, Gruel remains humble.  As far as I know, he hasn’t had to purchase a larger helmet.  That’s got to be torture for car owner Tim Barbeau, who against the advice of his personal life coach, decided to step out from behind the wheel to let Gruel drive it. 
 
 ----  Dave Cliff wanted to keep Gruel honest, but never really got a shot at him. Cliff looked like the hardest working driver out there from my vantage point, as he ran high, low, and in between to get to the front.  But a long 18 lap run, and a determined Rob Pullen kept Cliff from having anything left for Gruel by the time he got to second place.  I bet five different times I thought Cliff was wrecked or spun, but he saved it every time.  Always fun to watch Dave Cliff drive.  He never gives up.  Rob Pullen held on for third.
 
 ----  Cliff did receive a little perk, however, for his troubles.  In addition to the 2nd place payday, Cliff received a $100 bill from Lighthouse lanes, in a random draw.  Thanks to Lighthouse Lanes for the extra bonus.
 
 ----  Also thanks to race sponsor Chris Porter’s www.sbsracingnews.com.   Chris not only supports the small block supers with excellent press coverage from his website, but he’s also slapping down some cash for us.  You really need to check out the website for the great coverage, and several interviews with the drivers.  Great stuff.  Thanks, SBSracing news!
 
 ----  Our man Barry “Killer Kingsley” had a solid night in the #23, earning his first career top five finish.  Barry’s car was pretty solid, and he was very happy with his 5th place finish.  Apparently in the future, Barry needs a bet for motivation, as a friendly wager with his teammates J.J. Andrews and Chris Lupa have earned him a couple of nice prizes.  Two bottles of liquid refreshment would be coming to the driver amongst the three of us who finished furthest ahead of the three.  Congratulations Barry!
 
 ----  Barry asked me to thank everyone who helped or attended his golf tournament fundraiser on Father’s day.  The event was a huge success; and a lot of fun!  “I sure am appreciative for all of the support and friendship”, said Kingsley.
 
 ----  Terry Solazzo was to drive the Rob Pullen #2 car, which so far this season has been campaigned by Chip Wood, as a backup to the TMS Racing Team cars of Mike Bond and Rob Pullen.  Solazzo had some problems in pre-race practice, though, and Mike Bond was enlisted to take over the chores behind the wheel.  Bond drove the car to a 7th place finish.
 
 ----  Dave Danzer passed plenty of cars during the night.  But a tangle that sent him backwards, sent him to the rear.  Danzer kept the foot on the gas though, and worked his way back up to 8th at the finish.  These young guys are persistent!  He didn’t seem the least bit shy earlier in the race, when he blew by the outside of me for position.
 
 ----  Jack Patrick made his first trip to Spencer Speedway in his Chrysler powered #9 Hedger Chassis machine.  Jack ended up ninth in the final rundown, and enjoyed the challenge of Spencer.  The car looked good, and he loaded it up damage-free at the end of the night. 
 
 ----  Dennis Richmond landed the ride behind the wheel of the Shawn Walker #68 for the night.  Richmond drove his first race in the division, and stayed out of trouble the whole night to land an 11th place finish.
 
 ----  Mark Castiglia had a blown radiator hose in the first warmup session, but had it repaired no problem for the rest of the night’s races.  Castiglia finished 12th in the final rundown.
 
 ----  My other teammate, Chris Lupa took the seat of his car for the first time in a couple of seasons.  The #46 ran pretty good, and Lupa got some much-needed seat time.  A spin to the inside sent him to the rear of the field, but all of the other cars missed him.  Lupa also loaded the car at the end of the night with no damage, which was his main goal for the evening.
 
 ----  Dennis Rupert enjoyed his second trip to Spencer, and was also able to load his car on the trailer at the end.  Last week’s Dennis Rupert Racing fundraiser helped out the tire fund, and he asked me to thank everyone who supported.  The chicken was great, the cookies were fresh, and the fruit roll-ups were awesome!
 
 ----  Steve Abt was the only driver that suffered some damage on the evening.  On the first lap of the heat, after putting the car sideways off of turn two, Abt took a flyer out into the ding weeds off of the right tire of an elderly driver’s car.  Steve pointed the “finger of guilt” at me as he was being towed off of the track, but we discussed it a little later.  Just one of those things, as I felt that Steve was maybe a little too aggressive going into the third turn.  I was wondering though, when Steve rocketed into the air off of my tire, why it says “JJ Andrews sucks” on the bottom of his belly pan.  Did he plan to do that?
 
 ----  It was fun to come out of semi-retirement with my #93 small block supermodified, even though not everything went as planned.  Racing is still fun, and I’m glad I took my car to Spencer.
 
 ----  I ran fairly well in my heat race, and ended up with a starting position of 5th for the feature.  A tire change didn’t work out as planned, so I think I was a little slower in the feature.  I was running okay though, and I had a solid shot at a top five finish.  The car ran great, and had no mechanical problems, which was great.  Some tentative driving on my part held me back a little, but I escaped (almost) damage free at the end of the day.
 
 ----  I was the victim of a ridiculous call by the race director, which got me a 10th place finish at the end of the feature, instead of the top five that I deserved.  Jason Simmons and Dave Danzer wrecked, sending Danzer spinning.  The simple act of me avoiding Danzer got me put to the rear, which made no sense to me or anyone else that saw the incident.  I made no contact with anyone, never spun, never stalled or stopped, but was penalized.  I didn’t understand the blown call, but there was no way to argue my case from the driver’s seat.  I was left to do nothing but chalk it up as a mistake.
 
 ----   “It’s a dumb rule…it’s the rule”, I once heard Andrew Harpell say at a driver’s meeting.  That’s all I could think of when I got put to the rear for my non-involvement.  Coincidentally, I was told by NORA officials that Andrew Harpell was the person that made the call to put me to the rear. Apparently Harpell was in the tower helping with directing the show, as the RoC mods were in competition on this night.  Andrew - you owe me one on that deal!
 
 ----  It sure felt great to be behind the wheel again, though.  I still love my racecar, and it was cool to be working on the car with Mark and Scott like the old days.  And it was also fun teaming up with Barry and Lupa.  Reminds me of why racing is so much fun.  I’m very much looking forward to the next NORA Spencer race on July 17th.
 
 ----  I’ll have some more info soon about a couple of issues at Spencer that annoyed some of our competitors.  A $45 pit pass and $10 a gallon race fuel price at the speedway made many of us feel unwelcome.  I’ll try to come up with an explanation for these situations before our next race at Spencer.
 
 ----  Okay,  I know that by the time you’re reading this, it’s not Father’s Day any more.  But I’m writing this on Father’s day, so I hope you’ll let me be a little sappy for a few minutes.  And if not, that’s okay too.  Just tune out for the rest of the column.  Later,  I’ll be sure to get back to the normal racing BS that I usually write.
 
 ----  A few of the guys in our division are fortunate enough to have their fathers side by side with them to help with their racing careers.  Dave Cliff Sr. owns and fields the #06 small block supermodified that is piloted by his son, Dave Jr..  Craig Danzer is the driving force behind his son Dave’s #52 small block super.  Brian Sobus has had his moments of stress and heartache behind the wheel of his family owned #79, but his father Brian Sr. and family’s support always have him back at the track for the next race.  And I’ve known Dave Gruel for a few years, and I’ve never seen him at the races without his Dad, Dave Sr.  Dave, Craig, Brian Sr., and Dave - thank you.  Your sons need you, and none of them would be where they are without you.  Don’t ever forget that.
 
 ----  I’m not limiting my congratulations to those four fathers.  Many of the drivers have fathers who are also involved, in many different capacities.  Bob Lupa (Chris), Dave Bond (Mike), Bob Pullen (Rob), Tim LaRochelle (Josh), Duane Heroth (Kreig), are all drivers’ fathers that I see or have seen at the track in support of their driving sons.  I apologize to the other drivers’ Dads that I haven’t mentioned.  You are all appreciated and needed, and it’s great that you are able to be there.  Many drivers have Dads that aren’t or can’t be involved for whatever reason, but I still recognize you for the contribution that you have made to our sport.  You made a racecar driver - and put a special breed of person on this earth. 
 
 ----  As a father, I wish I was like you guys.  No matter how hard I tried, I have never been able to beg, bribe, or coerce any of my kids to share my love of racing.  My daughters, 19 and 18, apparently like other things, like boys and other yucky stuff.  My son John Jr., 17 next month, couldn’t be any less interested in racing.  And I can’t even bribe him with French fries to get him to go to the races, like when he was little.  “J.J. Andrews Jr.” drove quarter midgets for awhile, but it eventually became evident that he was just humoring me, and wasn’t really into it.  Hey - you like what you like.  Never figured out how to control that.
 
 ----  It really bothers me that I can’t race with my son.  But you can’t force your kids to like something that you like, no matter how hard you try.  If you guys have any suggestions, please let me know.  I would put John in my car in ONE SECOND if he was the least bit motivated.  While many of you guys use racing to connect with and spend time with your families, racing has only been a wedge with my children.  My only chance now is that maybe I’ll have a grandchild that I can trick into liking racing down the road.  J.J. Andrews III has a nice ring to it.
 
 ----  Don’t get me wrong.  April and I have three great kids, who will be great members of society.  You would like every one of them. Great personalities and awesome senses of humor.  Not sure where they got that.  Lacey, Chelsea, and John - I love you.  You make my Father’s Day amazing! 
 
 ----  Now to the sons:  worship your father.  Appreciate what he’s done for you.  He’s put his heart,  soul, money, work, etc. into racing for YOU.  Yes, it’s also for his own self-gratification.  He enjoys it, too.  But please tell him how you feel.  Thank him for his efforts.  Don’t take him for granted.  You have no idea how stressed he is when you’re out on the track.  When you have a rough night, it’s worse for him than it is for you.  But he enjoys it more than you do when you do win.  The next time you think he’s barking at you, just let it roll off your back. 
 
 ----  Racecar drivers are badasses.  We’re the toughest guys on the planet, and for every one of us who are fortunate enough to drive racecars, there are thousands out there who wish they were us.  I know it’s not really what racecar drivers do, but to all of you sons out there - now is the time to show Dad your soft side for a minute.  Tell Dad you love him - I dare you.  Just watch the look on his face.  It’ll be well worth any embarrassment that you may feel.
 
 ----  When I was 14 years old, my Dad, Bob Andrews and I built my first racecar.  This wasn’t a quarter midget or a microd or a go-cart or anything like that.  It was a 1967 Chevy Impala “amateur division” car for Weedsport Speedway, that lasted a total of three weeks. First race was on July 8th, 1979. Charlie Fletcher welded a roll cage into it, and it was about as primitive as you could get.  After that car was destroyed, we cut the roll cage out with a torch and welded it into a ‘72 Lemans 4 door, which we flat-towed with a tow bar until we hit the big time and bought a trailer.  Not too far down the road, when I was 16, Dad moved me up to Street Stock at Brewerton and Fulton Speedway.  Not because I was ready, but because he cut a great deal over a Schaefer draft with Pete Compeau, who was in the mood to get out of racing that day.  Probably needed some beer money.  Dad was there when I took my first checkers, in a consi at Brewerton over Sam Reakes III. Somewhere there’s a picture of me in that #16 Chevelle, with an angry Reakes in the background, protesting to the flagman about some injustice that he felt I had done.
 
 ----  A year or so later, my racing career took a turn when Dad had his heart attack.  He fought back to half speed over the next year and a half, and passed away in 1982.  He was only 52 years old.  The night he died, my brother Bob and I, and our friend Mike Bond had just returned home from watching the races at Weedsport Speedway, if I remember correctly.
 
 ----  He would have enjoyed my racing at Oswego Speedway, because he was a pavement guy.  He raced the paved (they called the surface “macadam” in those days) speedways at Brewerton and other places in the 50’s.  Bob Andrews drove a few different cars, some numbered ½, but only had a limited career as a driver.  More of his racing was as crew or occasional driver for his brothers Bernie and Ron Andrews, when he was home on leave from the Marine Corps.  I can still feel the bump that Dad made me feel on his nose from when he flipped Uncle Bernie’s car into Archie Green’s junkyard, which was off the first turn of Brewerton Speedway.
 
 ----  When I won my feature at Oswego Speedway in 2001, the first thing I thought of was how much my father would have enjoyed it. Dad had been gone for 19 years, but he was the first person that I thought of. He never took us to Oswego Speedway as kids, but I bet he would have been there to watch me race.  He would have thought that a small block supermodified was the coolest thing.  And he would have encouraged me to have a Ford engine in it - not an old “stove bolt Chevy”, as he called them.  Dad would have been a lot of fun in the pits.  We probably would have been involved in a few fights, too.  Bob Andrews was a tough bar owner and Marine with a short fuse and a love for life.  I inherited one half of that.  You guys would have liked him.  I’ve got some stories if you’re interested.
 
 ----  I’d pay a lot of money to have my Dad bark at me in the pits or the garage.  Or give me an awkward man hug.  And I would very much enjoy to see that look on his face when I tell him “I love you”.
 

 

Gater News - June 17th, 2009

Wow! If you weren’t at Oswego Speedway last week, you missed out!  Two features, two great races, two exciting finishes.
 
 ----  Amazingly, Doug Didero, who had been in a horrible wreck the previous week, was back in action Saturday.  After initial reports that the Xtreme supermodified would be out of action for awhile due to the extensive damage, nobody was shocked to see the hauler enter the pits on race day.  Remember - the car was built from start to finish in less than a month previous to Classic last year.  So the fact that builder Paul Colloca could work miracles was already established.
 
 ----  And as in the past, the car came out of the trailer ready to rock.  And rock it did.  The car was the only supermodified that cracked the 17 second mark during the feature, and the stunt was completed with another victory.  Just amazing, once again.  Congratulations to Doug Didero, Paul and Megan Colloca, and the rest of the Xtreme crew.
 
 ----  It wasn’t an easy win, though.  It looked like it may be a runaway, when Didero blew by everyone and opened up a big lead.  But it’s never going to be easy when you’ve got a guy like Joey Payne in the race behind you.  Payne led several laps, and for awhile it looked as though Joey may finally get that first ever non-winged feature win at Oswego Speedway.  Didero spoiled that hope for awhile, but Payne never gave up.  Even as Didero stretched out the gap, Payne still had to fight with McKnight to hold second.
 
 ----  But as the laps wound down, Didero encountered a bunch of lapped traffic.  Maybe he was slowing down, too, or the car was going away.  I doubt he was getting complacent.  But Payne and McKnight caught up at the end, and Joey came within inches of pulling off the shocker.  On the last turn of the last lap, Payne had one shot, and a very good one.  Joey got all the way beside the #3 for the lead and win, but there just was not quite enough in the high groove for the surprise ending.  But it sure made for a finish that people will be talking about for months!
 
 ----  John “Luther” Gray has officially entered the record books as a competitor in the supermodified division.  Luther was offered the opportunity to race Keith Gilliam’s car as a payback for all of the good he has done for the Make-A-Wish foundation.  Luther ran the qualifying heat, starting right behind legend Bentley Warren, earning his spot in the record books forever.  Great gesture by Gilliam, and quite a thrill for Gray. I was told that the “oops I crapped my pants underbritches” did not quite catch everything.
 
 ----  Keith Gilliam was allowed to then race the feature in the car (since there was not a full field), and looked quite impressive, coming home in 7th place.  Of course, we all complimented Luther for the fine run in the feature, and gave him all of the credit.  Isn’t that how it goes?  Gilliam does something nice for someone, then gets busted on for it.  It is the opinion of many of us that maybe Luther should run next time, as well.
 
 ----  The legend Bentley Warren was in competition in the #15 supermodified, finishing in 10th place.  Bentley started 19th and slowly worked his way up to 10th at the finish, not quite the finish that the team had hoped for.  The car looked very scary to drive in warm-ups, as Bentley looked every lap as though he may be going for a ride into the fence.  Didn’t seem to bother him though, as he kept the foot buried right in the throttle no matter where the rearend of the car was headed.
 
 ----  Dave Sanborn out of Tilton, N.H., along with his entourage made his second visit ever at Oswego as a driver of an un-winged super.  Sanborn had a good time, and was able to complete his successful mission of loading the car into the trailer without the assistance of a tow truck.  (Or as he said it with his New England accent “a wreckah”.)  He did bang up some rear sheet metal by backing it into the fence, but a well-timed speedway light malfunction gave him a half hour to get the car back together, on the lead lap.
 
 ----  Sanborn’s supermodified experience has been as a winged ISMA racer, but he is very intrigued by racing at the famous Oswego Speedway. In 2009, Dave is “using my ISMA money to fund my Oswego habit”. Dave raced with ISMA at Waterford Speedway on May 23rd, finishing 11th. That $1000 was put aside to help finance Dave’s trip to Oswego this weekend. Dave’s Oswego winnings will help get him to the July 7th Stafford Speedway ISMA race, which is only a couple of hours from his home. And then his Stafford winnings, two races from now, are already earmarked for a trip back to Oswego Speedway in late July.  Suggestion: I recommend that Dave save a couple of bucks from his winnings to buy a pair of sunglasses.  He had the most scary looking sty on his eye that I’d ever seen….
 
 ----  I did a fun interview with the colorful Sanborn last week, and I’d like you to read it.  You can find that on my blog at www.gaternews.com.  Might be good for a laugh!
 
 ----  Keith Shampine made his first appearance of the season in the Randy Daratt owned #88.  Shampine has been sharing the wheel with Bob Reis in 2009.  It wasn’t the most successful journey for Shampine, who was credited with a DNF 18th in the final rundown.  The 88 was sporting a nice new body that was built by Xtreme Chassis.  Shampine lasted 30 laps, turning some decent times, before his premature exit.
 
 ----  Dan Connors Jr. was back in action in the supermodified division after a nasty wreck the previous week.  Connors was also a DNF on the evening, however, credited with a 20th place when his evening ended after 15 laps.  Good to see the young driver back, though, after the hard hit.
 
 ----  The small block supermodified season was equally awesome.  The racing has just been outstanding at Oswego Speedway this year, and this was another example.
 
 ----  I had my doubts.  You don’t just hop into a small block supermodified and know how to do it.  Especially when you’re a young racer, and most of your experience is behind the wheel of a dirt car.  Plus, he wasn’t able to attend the pre-season open practice, OR a track rental the following week, to start learning how to drive a pavement car.  “That kid won’t crack 20 seconds before July”, a crotchety old driver / columnist scoffed.  “These cars take a lot of seat time.  What’s Tom thinking of?”
 
 ----  Andrew Schartner proved me wrong.  In a big way.  In just his fourth feature ever in Tom Aaserud’s small block super, the rookie came very close to winning a feature.  After fighting off Stan Gates on lap two, Schartner went on to lead the next 27 laps of a 30 lap feature.  He drove an excellent line, turned great times,  and only a bonzai move by a Hall of Famer cost him the win.  I hereby eat my words.  This kid’s got some natural ability, great equipment, excellent teachers, and a great future behind a steering wheel.  Wherever that takes him.  Great find, Tom!
 
 ----   But leave it to the amazing Mike Bond to steal Andrew’s thunder.  Bond started 10th, and methodically sliced his way through the field, ripping the win away from the Crow Motorsports ride with an amazing - and clean - pass right at the end.  Bond seemed to find a new trick this week,  patented a few years ago by supermodified driver Randy Ritskes, called the “ballsout crazy third turn dive”. 
 
 ----  Ritskes perfected this move a few years ago, passing a lot of cars, and causing a lot of excitement.  It’s kind of risky, but it sure is a lot of fun to watch.  Especially if you don’t have any equipment on the speedway.
 
 ----  And one other fact about the “ballsout crazy third turn dive”…  the other drivers HATE it.  I’ve had it done to me before, and it scares the crap out of you.  It’s not illegal, it’s not dirty driving, and it’s only slightly dangerous.  But you really hate to have it played on you.
 
 ----  Russ Brown had some problems with the Ford engine in the Ray Pike owned Hedger car, and changed back to a Chevy engine for last week’s race.  They’re still searching for some speed, but another podium finish will keep the team in a decent place in the point standings.
 
 ----   And one other great fact, speaking of Hedger cars - the dominance of the FFB small block super chassis was not evident last week, with Ray Hedger built frames grabbing half of the top ten finishing positions.  2nd (Schartner), 3rd (Brown), 6th (Brian Sobus), 8th (Jack Patrick), and 9th (Dave Danzer).  As a Hedger guy, I’m happy to see it!
 
 ----  Great runs for Rob Pullen (4th), Brian Sobus (6th), and Guard Nearbin (12th) who have been struggling quite a bit this year.  All three guys are shaking off the slumber of the early season, and getting the cars faster. 
 
 ----  Dave Danzer and crew had a long day at the speedway.  After installing a new rearend in the car during the week, a problem with that rearend during the first warmup necessitated a change back to the old rear.  Changing a rearend in one of these cars isn’t a ten minute project, and to do it at the racetrack makes it that much tougher.  But the job was completed in time for the heat, and Danzer went on to a 9th place finish in the final rundown.
 
 ----  Dave Cliff was involved in every accident, it seemed.  But the car didn’t get damaged in either of the scrapes, and he kept charging from the back.  Cliff passed about a hundred cars, and finished 10th at the end of the day.
 
 ----  Stan Gates received a lot of damage to his Ford powered #28 machine in one of those tangles with Cliff.  Apparently the two cars brushed wheels as Cliff was attempting a pass, and Gates ended up with a very hard impact, which caused a ton of damage.  Bent clip, a lot of body work, etc., will require a lot of work.
 
 ----  Gregg Davis made his first appearance of the year in the Shawn Walker #68.  Davis and Walker have struck a deal for Davis to drive the car a few times this year when Walker isn’t available, or has other plans.  Davis ended up 15th in the long run.
 
 ----  IT’S SPENCER SPEEDWAY TIME!  The NORA small block supers return to Spencer Speedway this Friday, June 19th, for the first time since 2007.  Many of us are very excited about hitting the track again, and are breaking our cars out of cold storage to do it.
 ----  NORA officials and competitors are very excited about the return to Spencer Speedway, and there is a decent chance that there will be 20 small block supers in attendance for the event.  NORA has a long history at Spencer Speedway, and have put on some amazing races at the speedway.  The racing in the small block super division has been excellent in 2009, so expect a great show from us at Spencer this week.
 
 ----  J.J. Andrews and Chris Lupa are making our first driving appearances of the year for this race, and I can’t wait to work the kid over.  Of course, I’m sure he feels the same way, but we all know he can’t measure up to the greatness that is ME.
 
 ----  I am pretty excited about my return to the cockpit, after being Barry Kingsley’s full time assistant to the assistant crew chief.  It’s going to feel good to shake the cobwebs off, and give a run to the ol’ 93.  It’s a sweet old car, and I can’t wait to see what she’ll do.  Driving a racecar is like riding a bike.  I hope.
 
 ----  One concern that I have: most of the cars at Oswego this year are 3-4 tenths faster than they were last year.  Does that mean that storage has made my car faster, as well?  I hope so.  See you there!  Please come down and say hello - even if I DON’T win.
 
 ----  On June 20th, Dennis Rupert will be holding a fundraiser for his small block supermodified team.  The chicken barbecue will be held at the Crazy Gator, in Fulton, N.Y.  and will feature some delicious chicken, macaroni salad, baked beans, and maybe some other special surprises.  (Word on the street is that fruit roll-ups will be included with every 5th meal.)  Be there at11:00AM, until 3 O’clock, or until the chickens are all gone.  
 
 ----  And then on Sunday, June 21st, is the Barry Kingsley Racing golf outing / fundraiser.  Barry’s trying to assemble a bunch of people to share a few laughs, hit some golf balls, and raise a couple of bucks for his small block supermodified.  The golf starts at 9:00AM at Tamarack Golf Club in Scriba, N.Y.  $30 includes 9 holes of golf, a cart, and all the jokes you can bring.  But that’s not all.  After the golf, an excellent meal will be served at the Front Door Tavern in Oswego, starting at noon.  Burgers, hot dogs, sausage, salt potatoes, salads, and other goodies will get golfers fed, all of which are included for FREE for the $30 ticket.  So what if you can’t make the golf, but you still want to eat and support Barry?  Come on down, bring $8.00, and join the fun!  For more information, to contribute, or to buy a hole,  please call Barry at 315-374-6195. 
 
 ----  And don’t forget - NO racing at Oswego Speedway for the next two weeks.  The mid-June graduation hiatus last for two weeks at the track this year,with the next race being on July 4th.  Can you wait?
 

 

Gater News - June 10th, 2009

Another amazing night of close racing at Oswego Speedway this week. You had to be impressed by how close and competitive the racing was in both divisions.
 
 ----  After the season opening supermodified practice at Oswego Speedway, many people were concerned that one car, the #3 Xtreme car driven by Doug Didero, would dominate the division, and make it a boring season. The best thing for the division this year is that although Didero has been fast, he has NOT been dominant.  The division looks pretty evenly matched this year, and I expect to see a lot of different winners.  There are several different drivers that are ready, willing, and able to win this year, and it looks like it’s going to be a great season for the supers at Oswego!
 
 ----  Stephen Gioia III jumped out to the early lead, and looked for a long time as though he may join the “Thousand Dollar Club”, which is the exclusive club where only Oswego Speedway feature winners can hangout.  You could feel the excitement in the air as fans toyed with the idea of Gioia’s name entering the same record book as his father, track owner and legend Steve Gioia Jr.  The nine was really cookin’, and it was a great moment in the making!  Gioia was eventually passed by Tim Snyder, then eventual winner Otto Sitterly, but  held on for a very solid third place finish.  He turned some excellent times, and turned a lot of heads. 
 
 ----  Tim Snyder over the winter was in a tough spot.  His team owned a Hawk Chassis, which had been one of the fastest cars at the track a few years ago.  But the tide was turning, as Paul Colloca’s new Xtreme cars were making a lot of noise.  The decision was made to sell the car, and then decide after that which direction to head for the 2009 season.  That didn’t work out, as it’s very difficult to sell a race car for anything near what it’s worth.  So what do you do now?  He didn’t want to alienate Joe Hawksby, who had brought him to prominence with one of the original Hawk Chassis.  But it was obvious that the Hawks were falling behind, and Joey Hawksby’s new position as a full time teacher of the Motorsports Fabrication department at Oswego County BOCES would make it harder to catch up or develop a new car.
 
 ---- So how about a mixture of the two chassis brands?  I don’t know who came up with the idea, but it was smart.  Snyder’s Hawk Chassis would head to Colloca’s Xtreme shop, and have the front suspension reworked / updated similar to the Xtreme cars that were looking as though they may be the dominant car for 2009.  Saturday night it looked like that experiment may be working well, as Snyder was very fast on the way to his 2nd place finish.  My suggestion for a name for this new combo car?  Frankenstein!
 
 ----  Otto Sitterly emerged as the favorite after methodically picking his way through the field for the win.  It was a textbook example of the fastest car, driving a smart race, doing just what he had to do to win, without taking chances.  After a third place finish on opening day, Otto and the John Nicotra team have certainly established themselves as favorites to contend for back to back championships.
 
 ----  Pat Lavery had another solid run, just missing the podium finish, coming home in 4th.  Lavery had a long battle with Doug Didero, as Didero tried everything he could think of to pass the Double Deuce Racing #2, but never got by.  But after listening to Chris Porter’s interview with Lavery on the www.superracingnews.com website, it is apparent that the team player was more concerned with damage inflicted to his teammate Bobby Magner’s car in an early race crash, than celebrating his own good fortune.  Lavery’s season so far has consisted of a 7th place finish, and two 4th place finishes in his first three races.
 
 ----  Doug Didero was in a horrible wreck in the Xtreme Chassis #3, when he cracked the wall coming off of turn two.  Didero was running hard, trying to pass Lavery, when his car got loose, and snapped around.  It was a horrible hit, and Didero was very slow climbing out of the car.  We were very relieved to see that he was okay, as it sounded like a bomb exploded when he hit the wall.  Didero’s crew reports that it will be a few weeks before the car is repaired, as the damage was very extensive / expensive.
 
 ----  If my calculations are correct, Joey Payne will win his first supermodified race for Strong Racing on  the $10,000 to win night.  Here’s how I’ve come to that conclusion:  Payne finished 9th in his first race of the year, the winged race at Oswego.  Two weeks ago, he was 8th.  Last week - 7th.  See where this is headed?  If my math is correct, this week he’ll crack off a 6th place finish, then it will be all top fives up until August 1st, which is exactly six Oswego races from now.
 
 ----  Oh - and the other way I figured that out?  The team expects to finish their new car up during the second half of June, when Oswego is on its two week hiatus because of typically lightly attended graduation weekend.  The new car AND the new engine, which engine builder Doug Holmes is trying to get them to run this week in the current car, should be a whole different kettle of fish, starting off with a bang on July 4th. 
 
 ----  Surprise!  That’s what “Mr. Stubborn”, Bobby Bond said when he surprised everyone by showing up with his car on Saturday night.  Just a few short weeks ago, as I continued my repeated grilling trying to get him to get over himself and bring the car back despite his hard feelings, he reminded me once again that “I don’t care if I ever go back there”.  The wedge was buried, the line was drawn in the sand, the decision was cast in stone, and any other anecdotes that you can think of.  For the longest time, I thought he was just being a baby, and would eventually get his head out of his @#$ and show up.  He finally convinced me that he wasn’t coming, and I gave up on him.  Mr. Stubborn was serious.  And also - since we’ve been friends for such a long time, he or Larry or Eddie would certainly give me the scoop that he’s coming back, if he was actually coming back. 
 
 ----  Somehow, he got a brainstorm to retrofit the front end from the independent front suspension to a legal solid axle car.  He and the guys started on Wednesday, and had the car ready for Saturday.  He ran well, finishing 8th in his first race with the new setup.  So will he now be a weekly competitor at Oswego.  “Nah…I’m still running with ISMA.  I just wanted to make sure the car is ready with the solid axle, for the $10,000 to win race and Classic”, said Bob.  But do we really know?  Great to have you back, Bubs, however often you do make it.  A pleasant surprise.
 
 ----   Coming this week: the debut of a Mr. John “Luther” Gray, in the supermodified division!  At Luther’s Make-A-Wish party early this year, Keith Gilliam offered up his super for a night for Luther, to repay him for his years of charity in raising over $100,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.  Well this week is the culmination of that promise, as Gilliam is turning over the steering wheel to his buddy.  It’s not just a slow lap or hot lap thing, either.  Luther’s running the heat, earning points, and will forever have his name in the Oswego Speedway record books as a COMPETITOR in the supermodified division.  How many of you can say that?
 
 ----  So if he likes it or does well, Luther will be given the option to drive the feature, as well, if he wants to.  Otherwise, Gilliam will take a scratch position in the feature, or possibly run a different heat.  My fear is that if Luther goes out and laps the field in his heat, then does the same in the feature, that a wedge may be driven between the friends.  So do we have to root for Luther to fail, so Keith doesn‘t hate him for showing him up? 
 
 ---- Seriously, it’s a great gesture for Gilliam to put an untrained driver in his $70,000 machine, with no strings attached.  And a well earned perk for Luther, who does so much for so many, who gets to live a dream.
 
 ----  Very tragically, supermodified racer Tim Timms passed away two weeks ago.  The Canadian Timms was a rookie in the supermodified division, and had only raced a few times prior to his passing.  A great tribute to Timms was done by announcer Roy Sova, and his untimely passing was definitely in the hearts and minds of the fans and competitors at Oswego Speedway. 
 
 ----  Everyone at Oswego Speedway also had supermodified racer Shawn Muldoon on their minds, who had been in a horrible stuck throttle accident the week before.  Muldoon’s injuries were numerous, and his hospital stay will be lengthy, as he requires several surgeries for broken bones and other injuries.  Muldoon is apparently in good spirits despite his injuries, and very thankful for all of the help and support from his many racing friends.
 
 ----  Last week at the speedway the competitors in both divisions went through the stands and the pits with their helmets, collecting donations for Muldoon’s medical expenses.  In an incredible outpouring of affection, friends and fans contributed over $4,200 toward the fund, showing what great people our community can be.  If you’d like to send Shawn a card (or contribution),the address is:  Shawn Muldoon, 395 County Route 20, Oswego, NY 13126-4500.  Get well soon, Shawn - we all have you in our thoughts!
 
 ----  I’ll never forget my first - and only small block super win at Oswego. I led most of the race, but one guy pursued me cleanly the whole time.  Watching the video later I found out that he was inches from my bumper, high and low, but NEVER touched me.  That guy was Shawn Muldoon.
 
 ----  Speedway tech Mike Bozzuto called a special meeting to address the stuck throttle situation.  Bozzuto is being proactive, trying to prevent any further accidents or injuries. A new type of kill switch, either attached to the brake pedal or the throttle pedal is now mandatory for the supers, who have had four stuck throttles in the last season or two.  It was not felt that this kill switch was necessary for the small block supers, as they haven’t had that type of problem.  So why wait?  I submit that maybe it would be a good idea anyway, and maybe eliminate a problem before it happens.  It’s not impossible to get a stuck throttle in a small block super, and I’ve got the stained underwear to prove it.
 
 ----  Can anyone beat Dave Gruel in the small block supermodified division?  There have been three features this year, and Dave has won every one of them.  And just for good measure, Gruel won the last feature of 2008, for a total of FOUR in a row.  He’s off to an amazing start in Tim Barbeau’s car, and has been unbeatable.  How long before he starts getting real cocky and full of himself, and makes everyone hate him?  Like Kyle Busch? 
 
 ----  But once again, it wasn’t handed to him.  This week he started fifth, which was still ahead of a lot of the big dogs.  He took the lead on lap 5, but Mike Bond and Dave Cliff caught him on lap 16, and did everything they could to pass him.  It was an incredibly entertaining race, as three great drivers put on a driving exhibition racing cleanly with each other.  These three drivers have emerged as the top dogs, and had everyone on their feet for the whole race.  Great driving and great equipment.
 
 ----  Oh - and one other fact about Gruel.  He turned the fastest lap all day - a 19.241 second lap while winning his heat race.  It’s no fluke that he keeps winning - he’s the fastest car.  But this week, no matter what, he’ll be starting 12th or worse.  He’ll have to pass every good car.  If he wins this week, we’ll have no choice but to bow in his presence every time we see him.  And I’ll end this thought with this teaser: Gruel.  Supermodified.  Something’s up.
 
 ----  Mike Bond and Dave Cliff’s battle behind Gruel was one for the ages.  Just like the supermodified race two weeks ago that saw Doug Didero and Otto Sitterly battling behind Ray Graham, these guys were well worth the price of admission.  (Which was only ten bucks - same as this week.)  Mike and Dave had some contact the week before, but they proved that bygones are bygones, and put that stuff behind them. Just great driving - a lot of fun to watch.
 
 ----  Dave Danzer had a solid 4th place finish, after leading a few laps.  Danzer turned some excellent 19.3 second laps, and is surely a contender for some more decent finishes - and maybe another win in 2009 to back up his first win in ‘08.  He got passed by some really solid competitors and held off Kevin Knopp at the end.
 
 ----  Have to recognize Jason Simmons and Stan Gates for some exciting side by side action for several laps. The two friends put on quite a battle, but Simmons eventually held the advantage due to some bumper assistance from Kevin Knopp.  Maybe it was an optical illusion, as Simmons never seemed to get loose, but it looked to me like he was sure getting a few extra shoves from Knopp while he and Gates were running side by side.  It was a great race to watch, along with the other wars that were happening on the speedway.
 
 ----  I hate to see Brian Sobus struggle so much in 2009.  Brian’s just as good of a driver as those cars that are dominating the races lately, but he just hasn’t been able to get the car going as well as he needs to.  Although many people would be satisfied with two 10th’s and a 7th so far this year, I can assure you that he and his team are not.  Brian, along with Dave Danzer, Jack Patrick, Russ Brown, and Andrew Schartner, are working hard to get the Hedger Chassis machines back up front with the FFB cars.  It’s been tough so far, but Ray Hedger is at the track every week, and I’m sure he has some tricks up his sleeve that will get his cars back up front very soon.  Probably as soon as this week.  Even though I’m not racing my own car so far this year, I’m still a Hedger guy, and I know “we’ll” be back soon.  “Keep diggin’”, is Ray Hedger’s most famous quote.
 
 ----  Don’t forget, Russ Brown has been fast every week in the Ray Pike owned Hedger house car.  Brown had two thirds in the first two weeks, and was running well last week before blowing a hose on the Ford powered machine.  His 21st place finish last week will help him start ahead of some of the good cars this week, so this may be his week.
 
 ----  Our guy Barry Kingsley had his share of fun last week.  He did get a couple of guys squawking at him after his heat race, where he fought hard to maintain his 4th place handicap spot, which would help him maintain a decent starting spot in the feature.  As we all know, starting position means everything.  Jack Patrick and Kevin Knopp both grumbled a little.  But a couple of spins in the feature caused problems and damage for Barry, relegating him to a 15th place finish at the end.  Both incidents, involving Andrew Schartner and George Knight, looked to me like the result of the classic “I was in there and you came down” or the “I never saw you there” scenario.  First one was Schartner sticking his nose inside of Barry, causing contact, and the second one was Barry sticking his nose inside of Knight, causing contact.    Barry’s not usually one to assign blame, and took both accidents in stride. (My scorecard had him as the victim in one, and the aggressor in the other.)  New nose, new bumper, try again this week.
 
 ----  Two weeks ago, a few of the rookie small block super drivers had to be sent to the pits early because they were not holding their line, and race director Chuck Handley was concerned for the safety of them and others when the leaders came up.  Some of the guys were upset by this, and were concerned about how they were supposed to learn, if they were sent to the pits with perfectly good cars.
 
 ----  So last Saturday, Handley setup a special rookie only pre-race practice to help get these drivers up to speed. It was a great idea, and was much appreciated by the drivers who attended.  I thought that was a cool thing to do, and I give Handley a big pat on the back for that.  And he was rewarded by some better rookie driving, which only helps the division in the long run.
 
 ----  While it hadn’t been announced as of press time, I expect an announcement that the NORA small block supermodified event scheduled for June 27th at Shangri-La2 Speedway will be cancelled.  While in heavy construction, it is becoming apparent that the facility will not be ready in time.  July 4th weekend may be the opening weekend, which would make it unlikely that the NORA division could schedule a race there this season. I’m sure it will be a beautiful facility when it is completed, judging by the pictures on the speedway’s website.  Hey - Rome wasn’t built in a day!
 
 ----  Happy Birthday to Oswego, Weedsport, and sometimes Brewerton Speedway announcer Joe Marotta.  Joe recently celebrated his millionth birthday, and shows no interest in retirement.  Joe is one of the true gentlemen of the sport.  He was a little under the weather last week, but he didn’t let that hold him back. 
 
 ----  Over at the Brewerton Speedway, I have to send a shout out to my buddy Chad Phelps.  I watch him and cheer for him all the time, but apparently he can only win when I’m not there.  Chad’s got two wins now this year in the big block modified division, beating many of the top dogs both times.  The good news is, this second win begs a change in his nickname status from “the other Phelps” to “the Phelps”.  Or “that Phelps Kid”.  It also affects his cousin Ryan Phelps’ nickname, who has now become “the other Phelps.”  Congratulations, Chad!  Sorry I missed it - and the accompanying awkward hug.  I’ll give you another shot this week!
 
 ----  On June 20th, Dennis Rupert will be holding a fundraiser for his small block supermodified team.  The chicken barbecue will be held at the Crazy Gator, in Fulton, N.Y.  and will feature some delicious chicken, macaroni salad, baked beans, and maybe some other special surprises.  (Word on the street is that fruit roll-ups will be included with every 5th meal.)  Be there at11:00AM, until 3 O’clock, or until the chickens are all gone.  
 
 ----  And then on Sunday, June 21st, is the Barry Kingsley Racing golf outing / fundraiser.  Barry’s trying to assemble a bunch of people to share a few laughs, hit some golf balls, and raise a couple of bucks for his small block supermodified.  The golf starts at 9:00AM at Tamarack Golf Club in Scriba, N.Y.  $30 includes 9 holes of golf, a cart, and all the jokes you can bring.  But that’s not all.  After the golf, an excellent meal will be served at the Front Door Tavern in Oswego, starting at noon.  Burgers, hot dogs, sausage, salt potatoes, salads, and other goodies will get golfers fed, all of which are included for FREE for the $30 ticket.  So what if you can’t make the golf, but you still want to eat and support Barry?  Come on down, bring $8.00, and join the fun!  For more information, to contribute, or to buy a hole,  please call Barry at 315-374-6195. 

 

Gater News - June 3rd, 2009

Very exciting night of racing this week at Oswego Speedway!  Let me tell you about it.
 
 ----  Ray Graham has been racing supermodifieds for several years.  Although he now lives in Iowa, he still travels all over the northeast to race his supermodified, which is kept and maintained locally, near Oswego, N.Y.  The last several years, Graham has concentrated on the ISMA series, hitting as many shows as possible.  He’s had mixed results, has run very fast, and has great equipment.  He also has run at Oswego occasionally, sometimes with a wing, and sometimes without.  But the former small block supermodified champion had never been able to put together that elusive first supermodified win at Oswego Speedway.
 
 ----  Previous to the season, Graham made a decision to commit to focusing on Oswego Speedway’s schedule of mostly non-winged racing for the 2009 season. Over the winter, Graham worked with supermodified expert Clyde Booth, sending the car to Booth’s shop in North Carolina for some changes and updates.  Booth has often been a few steps ahead with some ideas, and it looks as though he has a few tricks up his sleeve to share with Graham.  It was time to concentrate on one thing - that first super win at Oswego.  On opening night, during a winged MSA / Oswego combo event, Graham had the race sewn up.  Fastest car, big lead.  But then an electrical problem slowed the car, sending him to the pits.  It was a heartbreaker, but he didn’t let that get him down.  Congratulations to Ray Graham and crew for leading every lap, and throwing that monkey off of his back finally.  This could be a banner year for Graham!
 
 ----  Although he led all of the laps, Graham had no cakewalk.  It was a classic battle between three great drivers.  Doug Didero and Otto Sitterly waged a major war against Graham and each other.  Sitterly made his way into second place on lap three, and the race was on.  Meanwhile, Didero was working through the field from his 8th place starting position, and joined the battle just after lap 10. Nobody used their seats for the rest of the day, as the war was on!  As Otto tried Graham on the outside, he nearly crashed, allowing Didero to grab away the second spot. 
 
 ----  Then it was Didero’s turn to chase and hound and pester Graham.  And try he did, lap after lap.  But Graham held his line, and Didero was not able to go to the outside to make the pass.  Over the years, Didero has always been one to run the bottom of the speedway, often faster than anyone else.  But this time, there was no outside lane to be had, and Graham did a perfect job of holding his line on the inside of the speedway.  One mistake, and the race would have been Didero’s.  But he never made that mistake.  Didero had the fastest lap of the evening, at 17.024, but that was not enough.  I see many epic battles ahead this season for this trio, along with several others who are still working out some bugs. 
 
 ----  And another fact that makes the season look so exciting for the supermodified division?  How about a 23 car field of supers?  In 2008, the division struggled to have a 20 car field, reaching a low of 13 supermodifieds on one scary night.  But now the supermodified division’s future looks so bright, they’ve gotta wear shades.  (They should make a song about that.)
 
 ----  One very scary downer on the evening though was a horrendous crash during warm-ups.  Shawn Muldoon flew into the first turn wall when his throttle stuck, totally destroying his super, but more importantly, sending Muldoon to the hospital.  Many rumors flew around about the extent of Muldoon’s injuries, but I’ve not heard anything definite as of press time. None of the rumors indicate that Muldoon’s injuries were life threatening, but broken bones and bruises were the talk. Muldoon was taken to Upstate Hospital in Syracuse, but that’s all that I really know.  As I write this, on Sunday after the races, I’ll be checking the Oswego Speedway website and other websites for updates about his condition.  I’m sure www.oswegospeedway.com will keep us updated.
 
 ---- Mike Ordway Sr. (he used to be just Mike Ordway, before his son started running fast and winning races in the supermodified division) was a surprise entry in the Stout Racing #49 car.  Ordway was fast, but did not tear through the field as many thought he would.  Ordway started 11th, and ran at or just out of 10th for most of the race.  But he did catch a few breaks and pass a few cars in the last ten laps, ending up in 6th place in the final rundown.
 
 ----  Keith Gilliam was running around the same spot, just out of 10th for most of the race, as well.  A late race tangle with Dave McKnight could have been disastrous, as he was pinched when he tried to move inside of McKnight.  But Gilliam only suffered minor damage to his front wing, and continued on to an 11th place finish in the final tally.  The word was that an evening of dirt racing and karaoke singing the night before with some really cool people was very excellent therapy, and really helped to clear his mind for race day.  (I don’t charge much for my services…)
 
 ----  Todd Stowell made his first appearance of the season, and his new light blue paint job looked extremely sharp.  Unfortunately, Stowell only completed 7 laps in the feature, and had a few problems on opening night.  But it’s great to see Stowell back at the speedway, and I look forward to some strong runs from the attractive, family owned #89 Xtreme Chassis.
 
 ----  Going over to the supermodified side of the pits last week was like walking into a wall.  There was an overwhelming sense of tension from the super drivers about a rumor that surfaced during the evening.  I tried to get the rumor confirmed, which would send a panic throughout the division, or denied, which would allow the supermodified drivers to breathe a sigh of relief.  But I was only stonewalled when I asked this direct question of Larry Muroski: “is it true that you are planning to move to the supermodified division in 2010,as the rumor mill has indicated?”  And why wouldn’t he?  He has nothing left to prove in the small block supermodified division.  Muroski would neither confirm or deny the rumor, which in itself leads me to this one suggestion for those in the supermodified pits: be afraid - be VERY afraid.
 
 ----  Have you ever heard of leading every lap in the feature, in the first time that you jumped into a new car?  Okay - you’ve probably heard of that.  That’s been done.  But how about doing that three times?  So far, Dave Gruel has led every lap (70) and won every feature (3) that he has driven in Tim Barbeau’s #50 car.  Quite a record, for sure.  But the gravy train is over now for Gruel.  Dave was able to capitalize on a poor finish and blown motor at the end of the 2008 season to handicap to the two cakewalks in 2009. But that ship has officially sailed, and he’ll have to work for the rest of the season. 
 
 ----  Gruel in essence traded a $5,000 blown motor last year for two feature wins this year - a small price to pay.  (I’d pay $5,000 for just ONE more feature win!  I spent a lot more than that on my car in the past, trying to get that.  And I would do it again, if  I thought I had the equipment / help / knowledge to get there. That’s a legitimate offer. Any takers?)
 
 ----  But let’s not minimize Gruel’s wins by talking about how he started up front.  I know a lot of guys who have started up front and NOT won.  Some of them are me.  Sure, that helps.  But you still have to be fast, run your groove, and not make any mistakes.  Not to mention the potential for problems with the car. Know this: other than one quick lap of 19.257 by Mike Bond, Gruel was the only driver to crack the 19.2’s,with a 19.295.  If the car isn’t set up right, or there is a mechanical issue, you’re going nowhere.  Everything has been done perfect by Dave, Tim Barbeau, Steve Reynolds, Dan Dennie and the gang, and they are reaping the rewards. Now that the handicap slate has leveled out, Dave will have to pass some cars this week.  He’ll still be fast, though, and I predict a top five this week - but not another win. He’ll put on a show.  Watch.
 
 ----  But like the supermodified feature, Gruel didn’t have it easy this time.  Kevin Knopp was ON him like white on rice.  Knopp rebounded solidly from a wreck on opening night, with a strong second place.  But he was definitely all over Gruel, and one slip would have given him the win.  Kevin’s car looked solid, after replacing a brand new, but defective distributor that had been slowing him down.
 
 ----  Dave Cliff landed another solid top five, finishing 4th.  But Cliff was involved in a controversial incident earlier in the feature, where some heavy contact from him on lap 15 sent Mike Bond on a little ride.  Mike wasn’t too happy about the contact, which happened while the two were jockeying for position in some tight quarters.  “It’s not the first time”, said Bond, who did acknowledge that maybe Cliff was retaliating from some earlier contact.  Bond felt that there was more than one incident of contact from Cliff. “Caved in the whole bumper”, said Bond.
 
 ----  Bond’s fun wasn’t done, though.  After a trip to the pits to modify some body damage from the incident, Bond made it back onto the track on the same lap.  During that time, Mike turned his fastest time, and the fastest lap of the day, trying to get his position back.  Without the benefit of many cautions, Bond worked his way to 11th before disaster struck.  Bond drifted high coming off of turn two, and caught his nose which had been hanging low from the earlier contact.  The dragging nose took away the steering, and Mike piled into the wall in turn one at a high rate of speed, collecting Andrew Schartner in the process.  Taking inventory of the crash on the next day, Bond found a ton of right side damage “everything but the caliper”, along with bars, bumper, and a few tweaks to the frame.  Definitely a tough hit for the TMS crew, who will certainly have a lot of work to do this week.
 
 ----  Great run for Steve Abt, who had a solid performance in his brand new FFB car.  Steve started third, and held his own in the front to finish 6th at the end,moving into 4th place in the points.  He did have to apologize to Barry Kingsley though for a lap 8 nudge that caused a “freight train”, which cost Barry several positions.  The good-natured ribbing and threatening went on for hours after the race.  I believe that the contact cost Abt more than one adult beverage.
 
 ----  I was happy for our man Barry Kingsley, who did bring the car home in a solid 8th place at the end of the day.  Barry started on the pole, and held second place behind Gruel for several laps before losing some positions.  Barry had the #23 going pretty well, and recovered nicely - through a lot of hard work during the week - from an opening day crash.
 
 ----  Sometimes I fault Jack Patrick for being too clean of a driver.  If he was a little more aggressive, maybe he’d win more.  But it sure comes in handy when he’s racing your guy, and you’re confident that he’s not going to wreck them. 
 
 ----  Jack ran with Barry Kingsley for a good portion of the race, but drove him cleanly, despite gestures from his crew, encouraging him to “take him out!” and “spin him!” and “make him flip over and burn!”.  (They don’t think that I know hand signals, and they denied that they were saying bad things, but I know exactly what those gestures meant.)  I fixed them though, with a signal of my own to our driver, suggesting that he “back into Jack Patrick if gets anywhere near you and inflict enough damage that he will not be able to successfully compete for the rest of the evening, and in addition two or three subsequent evenings depending upon your discretion as to the severity of the indiscretion deemed necessary at that time.”.  I also used a gentle reminder that “I will punch you” to his crew, if anything happens on the track.  Barry may not be the tough guy on the speedway, but Samantha and I certainly hold up our end of the bargain in the pits.  Take that as a warning, everybody who races with Barry.  
 
 ----  Several drivers were the victim of the seldom used “guilt by association” rule in the small block supermodified division last week. 
 
 ----  Dennis Rupert was asked on lap six to take his car to the pits, as scorers felt that he was not running fast enough laps, or keeping a straight enough line to continue.  Rupert was the victim of the same fate on opening day, as he was parked just a few laps from the end, costing him a top ten finish.  This is a very controversial rule for the person who is sent packing, left to wonder how he’s supposed to learn to drive if he’s parked in the pits.  Rupert was obviously very disappointed, but chose to discuss it with race director Chuck Handley during the week, after he had cooled off.  I hope that whoever makes these decisions to park someone is fully aware of the work, money, and heartache involved in fielding a car, and is cognizant of how devastating it would be to have to park a racecar that you are trying to learn how to drive, and cannot learn without seat time.  He knows he’s not fast, but he wants to get there.  And to add insult to injury, announcer Roy Sova told me that he won’t use the “Dynamite Dennis” nickname until he cracks the 21 second barrier…
 
 ----  First George Knight felt that he was barked at when he arrived at the track, by tech.  Apparently he didn’t have any, or the correct roll bar padding on his car, and he had to either fix it or leave.  Right now.  “I almost did leave”, said Knight, who felt that he didn’t have to be yelled at.  (After a huge wreck the previous week, his first ever race as a rookie, I’m sure the roll bar padding slipped his mind when he was completely rebuilding the rear clip of the car.)  On the first night, the AMB scoring on the speedway website called him “Greg Knight”, instead of George.  He was disrespected again this week, when the website listed him as “David Knight”.  My suggestion for next week - Dwight Knight.  Or maybe Michael Knight.  But the dissing hadn’t stopped yet. On lap four, Knight was sent to the pits by the race director, for the same reason as Rupert.  Welcome to racing, Greg - I mean David - I mean George!
 
 ----  Bryan Haynes made his first appearance in his own #86 small block super.  Bryan has been working on the car for a couple of seasons now, and was very happy to finally see the track with it.  He struggled throughout warm-ups, and his qualifying event was the first time on the track.  The car looks good, though, and he’ll be fine with some time.  Haynes was victim #3 of the “park it - you’re going too slow” rule, on lap #5.
 
 ----  Seven for seven.  That’s the story at Brewerton Speedway this week.  Or seven races, zero rainouts.  Everything is still floating along very smoothly at the speedway under the new management.  Even some nasty holes in the speedway that developed during the heat races were corrected, and the track was much better for feature time.  I had a nice visit with Harvey Fink during the night, and you could tell that he’s very happy that things are going well at the speedway.  And I could also tell that he was very disappointed about the disrepair that the speedways had fallen into since he sold them a few years back.  He takes it very personal - which probably explains why he’s worked so hard to get the speedways back to prominence.
 
 ----  Billy Decker is starting to emerge as a favorite, after a slower start.  Decker has now won three of the seven features, and stunk up the show a little in the process.  It was the first feature that I had seen that wasn’t closely fought to the end.  Good race for Decker.  Decker is the points leader, but by only 16 points over teammate Pat Ward.
 
 ----  Kevin Bates was so fast that he finished 4th AND 6th.  Okay, that’s not really what happened.  I was just talking crap to see if you noticed.  Bates was actually 4th, and Alan Johnson finished 6th in Bates’ backup car, which is identical to Bates’ primary #42.  Apparently Johnson’s regular ride wasn’t ready or available, and he cut a deal with the Bates team to keep up his points position.  It worked - Johnson is now 7 for 7 top tens, and 4th in points.
 
 ----  Rob Keller won his second IMCA event in a row, leading most of the laps in the process.  Keller has rebounded from a troubled early season, where he had plenty of bad luck, and is slowly moving back up in the point standings.  Keller currently sits 6th in the standings.
 
 ----  Dale Caswell returned to the track for the first time since opening night, and raced to a second place finish in the IMCA feature.  Point leader Kevan Cook, who hadn’t finished any worse than second all season, finished in 4th place, behind J.J. Courcy.
 
 ----  Tim Devendorf took the early lead in the mod lite division, but didn’t run away with it, as expected.  Doug Williams eventually caught - and passed - Devendorf, running to the victory.  In fact, he made it look like so much fun that Justin Crisafulli joined in, finishing in 2nd place in the final rundown.  Mike Mullen was 10th, and Andrew Schartner recovered from a crash to finish 11th.
 
 ----  It must be tough up there in the announcer’s booth.  Nobody has the stamina to really hang in with Bill Foley in the tower at Brewerton Speedway.  He started the season with Shane Andrews.  Then he had Joe Marotta up there for a couple of weeks.  Then Shane Andrews worked up his nerve again, to co-announce last week.  What is Bill doing to wear out all of these guys? Who can hold up to the challenge this week?  I know one kind thing that Bill Foley did, though.  He made a special arrangement for driver Pat Ward to sign an autograph card for one bashful fan, who was intimidated by his presence.  Now, if Bill can get me - I mean that fan - an autograph…or maybe a meeting…  with Pamela Anderson, I’ll really be impressed.
 
 ----  Coming up on Sunday, June 7th, is the Coon/France/LeVea Motorsports #03/#04 Racing Fundraiser.  The father/son supermodified team are hoping for a one/two sweep in the points this year, but they need a little help from you in the pocketbook department.  So starting at noon, at LakeView Lanes in Fulton, N.Y. the guys will host a big party.  An $8.00 BBQ chicken dinner will be delicious, and many 50/50 drawings, raffles, door prizes, etc. will give you a way to win or contribute.  For tickets, see any crew member or call Volney Tire @ (315)598-3936 weekdays.  These parties are a lot of fun!
 
 ----  On June 20th, Dennis Rupert will be holding a fundraiser for his small block supermodified team.  The chicken barbecue will be held at the Crazy Gator, in Fulton, N.Y.  and will feature some delicious chicken, macaroni salad, baked beans, and maybe some other special surprises.  (Word on the street is that fruit roll-ups will be included with every 5th meal.)  Be there at11:00AM, until 3 O’clock, or until the chickens are all gone.  
 
 ----  And then on Sunday, June 21st, is the Barry Kingsley Racing golf outing / fundraiser.  Barry’s trying to assemble a bunch of people to share a few laughs, hit some golf balls, and raise a couple of bucks for his small block supermodified.  The golf starts at 9:00AM at Tamarack Golf Club in Scriba, N.Y.  $30 includes 9 holes of golf, a cart, and all the jokes you can bring.  But that’s not all.  After the golf, an excellent meal will be served at the Front Door Tavern in Oswego, starting at noon.  Burgers, hot dogs, sausage, salt potatoes, salads, and other goodies will get golfers fed, all of which are included for FREE for the $30 ticket.  So what if you can’t make the golf, but you still want to eat and support Barry?  Come on down, bring $8.00, and join the fun!  For more information, to contribute, or to buy a hole,  please call Barry at 315-374-6195. 

 

Gater News column May 26, 2009

 Finally!  Oswego Speedway’s first race of the season was completed last week, and a great crowd was there to see it.  And coming up the next three race nights at Oswego - $10 admission night!  That’s right - only $10 adult admission at Oswego Speedway on May 30th, June 6th,and June 13th.
 
 ----  Twenty-eight winged supermodifieds were in the pits for the combined MSA/Oswego winged supermodified race. That’s a great field of cars, and a great start to the season.  And all of those fans were NOT disappointed.
 
 ----  So who the heck is this Trent Stephens kid?  I’ll tell you who he is- he’s the driver of the Stout Racing #19, the same 20 year old young man who just put a whoopin’ on the rest of the 28 car field to take the victory at Oswego.  Stephens now wheels the car that was formerly driven by Moe Lilje, and certainly started the season off in solid fashion.  I had a few words with Trent after his win, and while he was happy, he didn’t seem shocked by his win.  This friendly young guy strikes me as a pretty confident - and talented driver.  And apparently car owner Steve Stout, who watched the Ohio native as a driver in the Buckeye Sprint division, saw that same confidence and talent in the 13 time sprint car feature winner. Stephens won the 5th sprint car race that he competed in as a rookie, but he stepped it up in the supers,winning his 4th ever race.  Now that’s what I call a “natural talent”.  Stout first noticed Stephens’ talents as a friend of Trent’s father, and I’m sure has to be feeling pretty satisfied with his decision.  Congratulations to Trent Stephens, and the Stout Team.
 
 ----  But would it have happened if Ray Graham hadn’t had an electrical problem?  Graham jumped out to the lead with the #90, and was way ahead.  It looked as if he would have an easy win, but that all changed when Graham coasted into the pits on lap 18.  Quite a disappointment for Graham, but he had to be happy with his run up to that point.  Laps in the 16.1 bracket, the fastest of the race, prove that Graham will be one of the cars to watch this year.  Graham has stated that he will run weekly at Oswego.
 
 ----  But on the MSA circuit, I bet people are feeling pretty nervous about that Stout team.  Not only did Trent Stephens grab the win, but his teammate Randy Burch snatched the second spot.  Burch is also new to the Stout team, replacing Dave Shullick Jr., who left to drive Clyde Booth’s car.  Can’t ask for a better start to the season! 
 
 ----  And one more thing about Steve Stout.  Apparently he is an excellent judge of talent.  His old driver, Dave Shullick Jr., also won a feature last week.  Shullick won the ISMA opener, at Waterford Speedway, beating some guy named Chris Perley.  So…I guess if you want to win a supermodified race this year, you had better somehow get linked up with Stout.
 
 ----  For awhile on Saturday night, though, I thought it may go another way.  Jason Spaulding was having a very strong run, and for awhile while he was running in second place, we were starting to feel it.  Spaulding has never won a super race, but seems to improve a little more every time he straps a wing onto the Jake’s Automotive #23.  We know now that Spaulding finished third, but there was a time when we thought that maybe, just maybe…
 
 ----  Pat Lavery also had a solid run, spending the whole race in the top five.  Pat finished in 4th, starting off the season near the podium for the Double Deuce Racing Team.  His teammate Bobby Magner was fast, but had some problems, eventually finishing 13th, one lap down.
 
 ----  I accepted some good-natured ribbing from Xtreme Chassis builder Paul Colloca, for picking his driver Doug Didero to only finish 4th in the feature.  “But you guys don’t have a great record with a wing on”, I defended.  And Paul’s reply? “Yet…”, he said confidently.  He really felt that they had the combination, but it looks as though they WISH I would have been right.  Didero still ran well, but I guess we established who is superior in the prediction department: the #3 finished 7th, which is closer to 4th, than it is to 1st.
 
 ----  But the rest of my predictions, listed on my blog at www.gaternews.com,  turned out to make me look right a real stickhead.  Timmy Jedrzejek, who I picked to win, finished 8th.  Bobby Dawson, who I picked for 3rd, was 17th.  But Jerry Curran, who I saw finishing 7th, was 10th in the final rundown.  And I was only two spots away for Joey Payne, who I picked out of the top ten, but finished 9th.  (Okay - busted.  I forgot all about Joey Payne, because I used last year’s results for my research, when he wasn‘t racing.  But who’s to say I didn’t have him 11th, but only listed my top ten?  Yeah, that‘s the ticket.)
 
 ----  John Torrese was out with his new Hawk Chassis, the only new car that Joey Hawksby built over the off season.  But it was scratched before the qualifiers even began. 
 
 ----  “I got fired!”, an exasperated Greg Furlong told me when I asked why he was in street clothes at the track, instead of a fire suit.  I was not shocked, because the internet has told me many times that Furlong had or would be fired from his family owned team.  But I have to admit I was skeptical, because as I reminded Greg, “that’s not true - because you know that I’m next in line to drive that car if you ever get out of the seat - and I haven‘t heard a thing”.  “You better go home and check your answering machine then…”, replied Furlong.  Talk about missed opportunity!
 
 ----  Needless to say, I was quite shocked to see Greg and his brother Pat Jr. watching the races together later in the day.  Something just seemed off.  How could Pat fire him, but still have no hard feelings between the two.  Could the internet message boards be wrong?  I doubt that. Could Greg be busting my chops?  Of course not - nobody would kid with me.  I don’t go that way.
 
 ----  Okay okay… everybody just calm down.  Of course that’s a bunch of hooey.  “Budget cuts”, is the real reason the #72 wasn’t there, according to Pat Jr.  Since they are still struggling with their non-winged car, which is their priority, they didn’t need the distraction - and extra money involved- taking the focus from the primary car to the winged car, which is not the main goal for 2009.  Sort of a “make one good before the other” scenario, the way I understood it.  Apparently they are not running for points this year, and could afford to give up the 40 showup points that are awarded to Oswego cars for competing in the MSA / Oswego events.
 
 ----  The small block supermodified feature saw a lot of opening night carnage.  Why does that happen?  Do people forget how to drive?  Is driving a small block super NOT like riding a bike?  Do they forget how much money it costs to fix these cars?  Or are they just all hyped up, and can’t calm down until they bend some metal?
 
 ----  Only five cars finished on the lead lap at the end of the race.  A new low for the division, as far as I can remember. 
 
 ----  We almost saw a one-two team finish in the small block super division.  Dave Gruel, who drives a car owned by Tim Barbeau led Tim Barbeau, in a car owned by Steve Abt, and it looked as though they would finish one-two.  But that dream went away on lap 18, when the motor in Abt’s #58 (which is Barbeau’s) blew up.  Confused yet, about who owns what, and which car and engine is owned by who? 
 
 ----  I’ll straighten it out for you.  Both cars are crew chiefed by the same guy - also known as “Mr. Common Denominator.”  Steve Reynolds works on both cars, and is involved in many of the setup decisions for the teams.  Steve’s been around these cars for many years now, and many of us would have really enjoyed seeing Steve’s efforts rewarded with a one-two result.  Not quite.  Word on the street is that Steve has been contacted by Jack Roush about his setup knowledge, but he turned it down because he only works on Chevys.
 
 ----  A little mixup for the victory lane crew after the small block super feature.  Third place Russ Brown and second place Dave Cliff gave very nice interviews to infield announcer Danny Johnson, but everyone seemed to lock up when it came to the interview with the winner Gruel.  It was an awkward moment to watch, but somehow Gruel never got the message to go to the interview stand, and Johnson never got his attention to wave him over.  If I ever win another race at Oswego, you will not be able to pry that microphone from my hands!
 
 ----  There was one guy faster than both Gruel and Barbeau, though.  Dave Cliff Jr. started the race way back in 11th, and cracked off the fastest lap of the night, a 19.151, on his way to the front.  The handicap system will bring a couple of cars back with Cliff, who will once again be starting poorly next week.  Now the challenge will be to see who can rip through the field as well as Cliff can; who can pass more cars.  A few guys are certainly up to the challenge, but Cliff’s #06 can match up with the best of them.  And I’m not just saying that because Dave taught me the “Soulja Boy” dance at Mike Bond’s fundraiser.  His talents as a driver are only exceeded by his skills as a dance instructor.
 
 ----  On lap two, Dave Danzer went spinning around like a top, in front of the whole field, collecting several cars in the process.  Dave was running pretty well that night, winning his heat and cranking off some 19.3 second laps in the process.  That early in the feature, it was hard to tell how his night would go, but he never got the chance to find out.  According to scorers and announcers, the instant replay was inconclusive about who was at fault.  I think Danzer may have gotten loose, but a pretty hard shot from Russ Brown was what sent him spinning.  Did Russ dump him on purpose?  Of course not.  He doesn’t have that reputation or history of doing that - usually he’ll just pass you.  But it sure looked to me like contact from the #60 is what sent Danzer spinning.  It should be an interesting week this week!  Brown finished third in the final rundown, after getting passed by Cliff at the end.
 
 ----  Mike Bond was moving toward the front, after starting in 9th position.  But a wheel-banging incident with another car slowed his progress, slowing down the TMS Motorsports #26 with some bent pieces.  Bond held on for 4th place, thanks to attrition.
 
 ----  Shawn Walker rounded out the top five, after several trips to the pits, and his involvement with Barry “whatshisname” Kingsley in a crash.  I don’t think Barry held any animosity about the accident, as he’s not usually one to assign blame.  But I bet Barry will be a little ticked when he listens to the Walker interview that is on Chris Porter’s www.sbsracingnews.com website.  Big Daddy was so excited about his top five finish, that he could absolutely not remember Barry’s name during the interview, calling him, and I quote, “23...what’s his name…23.…Kingsley - Barry Kingsley”, only after someone whispered the name to him.  Maybe he hit his head in the accident.  
 
 ----  I’m told that when Walker got home, he also drew a blank on the family dog’s name, and called him “J.J.”.  Dude - Barry’s been at that track longer than you.  And I don’t look anything like your dog.  Your dog’s name is Red Rocket - not J.J.  (Anybody catch the “South Park” reference?)
 
 ----  Jason Simmons didn’t spend all of his money on Oakley sunglasses this year.  He apparently dumped a few sheckles into his racecar. (Actually, I’ve been told that Jason’s uncle is Gene Simmons, from the band “Kiss”, and that Kiss will be playing a fundraiser soon.)  It looks pretty sweet, and ran pretty good, too.  He led a few laps in his heat race, and ran up front in the feature for a few circuits before running into trouble. His 8th place finish sounds good on paper, but the fact that he was two laps down made his hair turn red.
 
 ----  Brian “Smoke Show” Sobus had an engine blow, and put so much smoke into the air that airplanes going to the Oswego County airport were flying blind for a few minutes.  The engine kept dieseling, and wouldn’t shut off, sending smoke out the exhaust for a long time.  Apparently Sobus didn’t have their regular engine in the car, so they still have that one available for a backup.  He almost made it though - the smoke show didn’t start until lap 31.  Still nailed a top ten.
 
 ----  Why do they call him “Dynamite Dennis” Rupert?  I haven’t found out yet.  Okay, confession: they don’t call him that.  But I think they should.  Are you with me, announcers Roy Sova and Joe Marotta, or do you only use names that you invent?  I think it’s got a “ring” to it.  Oh yeah, about his racing.  The rookie is definitely getting the hang of it, and was credited with an 11th place finish on his first night, using “whatshisname’s” backup engine.  He finished ahead of other rookies Mark Castiglia, George Knight, and Andrew Schartner, but behind other other rookie Steve Abt, who was 6th.
 
 ----  You had to be impressed with Andrew Schartner’s debut in the small block supermodified division.  Schartner drives Tom Aaserud’s #18 Crow Motorsports machine, and comes from a quarter midget and dirt mod lite background. These small block supers are quite a different animal than those cars.  But he clicked off some 19.7 laps in only his second warmup session, which shows huge natural ability.  He unfortunately had some problems in the feature, and didn’t get to show what he could do, but those numbers look very impressive for his first night.
 
 ----  George Knight was out for his first time in the car that he bought from Tim Cuyler, that was campaigned last year for part of the season by Guard Nearbin.  But his career started out a little shaky when he backed it into the 1st turn wall on the first lap.  It’s going to take a rear clip and a lot of sheet metal repair to get that car back to the track.
 
 ----  Bill Moore was at the track, but not with his car.  After a track rental a few days prior to opening night, the car was all ready to fly.  But lack of help and “lack of desire” kept the car home on opening day.  After seeing all of the wreckage that happened during the feature, I bet Bill was quite satisfied with his decision.
 
 ----  After a 13 car supermodified field showed up for the MSA/Oswego wing show at Dunn Tire Raceway Park in Lancaster, N.Y., many of the MSA competitors are questioning their partnership.  I certainly am not in a position to make assumptions or explain why zero of the regular Oswego competitors chose to attend the race, but I would think that quite a wedge has been driven into the relationship.  I think we’ll hear more on this down the road.
 
 ----  The races at Brewerton Speedway last week were once again very competitive.  It always amazes me that these guys can run side by side, lap after lap, at those high speeds, on that slippery dirt track.  Tom Sears and Kevin Bates were the ones that put on the best show last week, fighting lap after lap.  A great driving exhibition, but unfortunately neither one of them were able to take home the checkers.  Sears was 4th at the end, while Bates was 7th.
 
 ----  Matt Sheppard broke the streak of winning Gypsum cars, with a dominating performance.  Pat Ward and Billy Decker did snatch the 2nd and 3rd place spots, though.
 
 ----  One classy thing I saw though, after heats, was all four Gypsum drivers, Billy Decker, Pat Ward, Larry Wight, and Ryan Phelps going through the stands, signing autographs, and kissing babies.  (Okay - kissing babies is an exaggeration.  But they were doing the other stuff.)  There was no discussion about it from announcers Bill Foley and Joe Marotta, but I thought that it was a pretty classy thing for those guys to be doing.  I wanted Pat Ward’s autograph, but I was too shy.
 
 ----  On this night, the IMCA event was dedicated in honor of the late Dean Hubbs, who passed away 12 years ago in an IMCA modified accident at Brewerton.  The cars were lined up on the track, and all of the drivers assembled to greet the Hubbs family and show their respect.  Rob Keller made a special speech about Hubbs, and presented flowers and well wishes to the family.  Keller’s eloquent words were certainly a great tribute to Mr. Hubbs and his family.  Just a great moment, and I was proud of the speedway management and Keller for continuing to honor his memory forever, by continuing the Dean Hubbs Memorial event, despite the change of ownership.
 
 ----  I was already, but after last Friday I’ve become a bigger fan of one of the IMCA modified drivers, who showed the ultimate in class and leadership.  First Rob Keller impressed me with his words about Dean Hubbs.  But then when the green flag flew, he impressed me by being a great racecar driver.  After breaking in his heat race, Keller was mired in the rear of the field for the start of the feature.  But you could tell that the race meant a lot to Keller, as he backed up his sincerity with a legendary drive to the front, passing Kevan Cook on the last lap for the win.  It was a great drive, and one that many fans will remember for a long time.  What made the win even more special was the fact that Keller has had a ton of bad luck so far in the 2009 season.  A great win for a quality guy.
 
 ----  Although it’s a week late, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Chad Phelps on his first - of many - dirt big block modified win two weeks ago at Weedsport Speedway.  Unfortunately, I didn’t get to see it, so Chad has promised to win one for me at Brewerton when I am there to see it.  And if he does, I will make this promise to Chad: no more awkward hugs from me in your racecar trailer, no matter how excited I am for you.  I’m still getting chills from that last one…
 
 ----  Coming up on Sunday, June 7th, is the Coon/France/LeVea Motorsports #03/#04 Racing Fundraiser.  The father/son supermodified team are hoping for a one/two sweep in the points this year, but they need a little help from you in the pocketbook department.  So starting at noon, at LakeView Lanes in Fulton, N.Y. the guys will host a big party.  An $8.00 BBQ chicken dinner will be delicious, and many 50/50 drawings, raffles, door prizes, etc. will give you a way to win or contribute.  For tickets, see any crew member or call Volney Tire @ (315)598-3936 weekdays.  These parties are a lot of fu

 

Gater News column - May 21, 2009
 
 What are the chances of a race actually happening at Oswego Speedway in May?  Stupid weather issues always seem to pop up on Saturdays.  Yet just 33 miles away, in Brewerton N.Y., every lap of every week has been completed, on Friday nights since April 17th.  Why are the weather Gods so accommodating to John and Laura Wight, the new owners of Brewerton Speedway, but so annoyed with Pat Furlong and Steve Gioia, who own Oswego Speedway?  Did somebody offend someone?  Or does someone have a picture of Mother Nature with a …cloud or something?  I’ve enjoyed going to Brewerton, but I really would have liked to have spent one of the last two Saturdays at Oswego.  If this weekend’s races at Oswego get ditched, I’m going to melt down. The screaming will be heard wherever you are  - I guarantee it.
 
 ----  I know last week was only scheduled to be an open practice.  Then why was I so disappointed?  Because I was going to be driving.  I was really anxious to feel that feeling again - the feeling of flying into the turn at over 100 miles an hour, slamming on the brakes, cranking it to the left, then easing back into the throttle.  The feeling that people who aren’t racecar drivers will never understand - but are dying to.  After driving for several years, it’s a feeling that guys like us take for granted.  But as practice day got closer, I found myself thinking about it more and more.  We were there, with the car, waiting for the weather to go away, but it never did. 
 
 ----  I know it’s just practice, but practice is like a “gateway drug”.  What if I cranked up the car, went fast, and fell in love with it again?  Maybe it would have changed my plans, which are to leave the car parked until the first NORA event, on June 19th at Spencer Speedway.  So maybe the rainout of practice was a good thing.  As I write this,  I’m back to my original plan of leaving the car in the garage.  Will I change my mind and do something crazy this week?  Remains to be seen.  I’m assuming that the $450 tire bill (it really wouldn’t make sense to try to race it with antique tires) - and a $95 registration fee -  will keep the car quiet this weekend.  But I will definitely be there as a fan and crew man.  I wouldn’t miss it for the world.
 
 ----  Thanks to Barry Kingsley for pushing me to get out the car and get it ready.  Barry came and got the car, then he, I and Samantha Todd worked on it to get it ready.  The old girl looks great, and is all ready to go.  I often need a push to get motivated, and that was exactly the push I needed.  Barry sensed my weakness, and confirmed once again than I AM susceptible to peer pressure.  So I ask you this: if I don’t race the opener, will I still be able to win the championship?
 
 ---- This Saturday is the annual “Port City 150” event, which features 150 total laps of feature racing action between the three divisions on hand.  The Small Block Supers will run 35 laps, the MSA/Oswego winged supers will run 40 laps, and the Race of Champions modifieds will have a 75 lap event.  Racing starts a little earlier this week, 4:00, so don’t wait until the normal starting time to get there.  Thanks to Gater Racing News (my favorite racing paper) and Parts Plus (I owned a Part Plus auto parts store for 11 years) for sponsoring the show!
 
 ---- Another great show at Brewerton Speedway last week greeted the fans.  Everything seems to be pretty smooth sailing at the speedway this year, and they seem to be doing a great job.  Five weeks into the season, and zero rainouts!  Unfortunately though, the season opener for Brewerton’s sister track Fulton Speedway was rained out last week.  Maybe it’s an Oswego County thing?
 
 ----  John Wight’s cars are still undefeated in modified action at the speedway.  Billy Decker picked up his second win of the season, holding off teammate Pat Ward in the point standings.  That’s bound to get the competition fired up.  I imagine the grumbling has already started.
 
 ----  It looked for a while as though Jim Witko would break the streak.  Witko was fast, and led several laps, but he was eventually overruled by Decker.  Then, to add insult to injury, Pat Ward snatched second place away toward the end.  Witko looked strong though, and I’m expecting a win from him this season - if somehow the Gypsum cars can be beat.
 
 ----  The IMCA division is still totally dominated by Kevan Cook this season.  Check out this record: out of five features run this year, Cook has four wins, and one second place finish.  Pretty impressive record!  "This new car is pretty awesome. I just hope it still runs this way when Dale comes back from the series race", said Cook in victory lane, referring to Dale Caswell.  Caswell won 12 out of the 16 IMCA races at Brewerton last year.  When I look at the Can-Am Speedway’s website, it appears as though Caswell is spending his Friday nights up north, where he competes in two divisions - IMCA and crate Late Models.  He did win last week in the IMCA division, but only seven cars competed in the division.  He was third in the late models, but only three cars were in competition in the startup division.  How long before Caswell tires of racing against ten cars a night, in two divisions?
 
 ----  Happy Birthday to Brandon Carvey, who just turned 16 years old, according to the announcers.  I think that’s a mistake - I’ve known Brandon from hanging around with his Dad Chauncey at the races for a long time, but I still picture him as a little kid.  Could he really be 16 now?  Maybe so - he is getting the hang of the IMCA car better every week.  Brandon cracked off a 9th place finish last week, and currently stands 8th in points.  This week - Brandon’s first top five.
 
 ----  Doug Williams has a decent lead over Clayton Brewer III in the Mod Lite division points.  That’s what happens when you finish every race in the top five.  Williams has two wins, two seconds, and a fifth to his credit so far this season.  How do you top that?
 
 ----  Kelly Skinner and Billy Izyk were both in competition for the first time of the season in the mod lites.  However, neither one had the debut they were hoping for.  Skinner was 22nd, and Izyk was 25th.  Andrew Schartner, who will be making his debut in a small block supermodified this Saturday night, drove his mod lite to a fine 6th place finish last week.  His first appearance, on May 8th, earned him a solid 11th place right out of the box.
 
 ----  Is Joe Marotta ever not working?  He was announcing at Brewerton last week, along with Bill Foley.  Joe announces at Oswego Speedway in Oswego (when it doesn’t rain), Weedsport Speedway on Sundays, and does a radio show called “Around the Tracks” every Saturday morning at 9:00AM on AM oldies 1390 WFBL in Syracuse.  But enough about Joe.  Can anyone out there tell me where he gets those sweet shirts with the antique cars all over them?
 
 ----  Okay, all of these race car drivers and announcers and car owners are pretty cool.  But I have a NEW racing hero!  As far as I know, he doesn’t own, drive, or sponsor a car.  He’s probably best known as a race fan.  But to me - he’s a hero!  So why is Mike DeFrietas my new racing hero?  Because he’s the guy who returned my lost cell phone to me at Brewerton last Friday.  I was on total meltdown mode last week when I lost my iPhone.  Fortunately for me, an honest man found it, and brought it back to me once he figured  out how to get in touch with me.  Thanks Mike - you are a quality guy!
 
 ----  Coming up on Sunday, June 7th, is the Coon/France/LeVea Motorsports #03/#04 Racing Fundraiser.  The father/son supermodified team are hoping for a one/two sweep in the points this year, but they need a little help from you in the pocketbook department.  So starting at noon, at LakeView Lanes in Fulton, N.Y. the guys will host a big party.  An $8.00 BBQ chicken dinner will be delicious, and many 50/50 drawings, raffles, door prizes, etc. will give you a way to win or contribute.  For tickets, see any crew member or call Volney Tire @ (315)598-3936 weekdays.  These parties are a lot of fun!
 
 ----  And then on Sunday, June 21st, is the Barry Kingsley Racing golf outing / fundraiser.  Barry’s trying to assemble a bunch of people to share a few laughs, hit some golf balls, and raise a couple of bucks for his small block supermodified.  The golf starts at 9:00AM at Tamarack Golf Club in Scriba, N.Y.  $30 includes 9 holes of golf, a cart, and all the jokes you can bring.  But that’s not all.  After the golf, an excellent meal will be served at the Front Door Tavern in Oswego, starting at noon.  Burgers, hot dogs, sausage, salt potatoes, salads, and other goodies will get golfers fed, all of which are included for FREE for the $30 ticket.  So what if you can’t make the golf, but you still want to eat and support Barry?  Come on down, bring $8.00, and join the fun!  For more information, to contribute, or to buy a hole,  please call Barry at 315-374-6195. 
 
 ----  Or if you want to do something nice for Barry, and make it a surprise, secretly contact ME at 315-447-6998.  How great would it be to spring a NEW ENGINE, or a SEASON’S TIRE BILL on Barry the day of the party?  I can help arrange that. 
 
 ---- Okay, seriously, I doubt anyone is going to step up big like that.  But if there was ever a team that you should help out, Barry’s your guy. ( I bet he’s blushing right now reading this…).  We all know Barry.  He’s crewed on, fixed, or somehow helped out many of us, on both sides of the pits -supers and small blocks.  He’s probably helped YOU at some point.  He currently has his spare engine in someone else’s car, who wasn’t going to be able to race for a few weeks.  He jumped in and got my car ready for me.  Definitely put this party on your calendar.  And if you can’t make it to the party, be sure to “Kingsley” it to help out the team.  (The definition of the term “Kingsley” was coined several years ago, when Barry contributed to a fundraiser that he couldn’t attend, helping out the team with a check although he wasn’t able to be there.)  I will see you there, for sure!
 

Predictions!  May 14th, 2009

Here we go again with the opening day rainouts at Oswego Speedway.  Again. Always.  But this year is even worse, because they could have got the show in.  The races were cancelled very early in the day, around 10:00AM, while it was sunny and warm.  It was based on a forecast.  So the plug was pulled because it MIGHT rain.  It did eventually rain, and rain hard, making the cancellation look correct.  But then it quit, and the roads were dry in Oswego hours before the scheduled race time.  It did get cold and windy again later, and the threat to rain was always there, but the races could have happened.
 
 ----  Unfortunately, in this day and age, it doesn’t work like that any more.  If it MIGHT rain, a large number of race fans are staying home.  They’ll do other stuff.  They’ll go to dinner.  They’ll play X-Box.  They’ll go to or rent a movie.  But the casual fan won’t even think about a trip to the races if it might rain.  Sure, us die-hards would be more than happy to shiver, get everything wet, then help dry the track with our street cars when the rain quits.  I’ll spend gas, and drive around for hours to see a race.  And there are a lot more people that would have been right there with me.  But not enough.  The differences between a profitable night and a losing night for a race track are pretty close. “If I see two raindrops, I’m pulling the plug”, Pat Furlong once told me a couple of years ago, speaking of a specific day that we were discussing.
 
 ----  I sure wish it wasn’t that way.  I know it’s not my money to spend, but with the number of fans that I know that were salivating for this opener, I’m not so sure that there weren’t enough of us to at least break even.  And we would have been so grateful, that we would have been willing to pay double for hot dogs!  Now, since there isn’t a race even scheduled for this week, we have to wait another two weeks for this opener.  Pretty disappointing, to say the least.
 
 ----  So since I didn’t see any races this weekend, I’ve had plenty of time to think about my Oswego Speedway predictions.  First, the supermodifieds.  This class was tough, because there are more than ten guys that belong in the top ten.  (Actually, I just couldn’t get it down to 10.)
 
11th - Stephen Gioia III finished 6th last year in the points.  He showed a lot of promise and consistency, and will certainly finish in or (near) the top ten again in ‘09.  Competition will be the toughest its been in years.
 
10th - Jason Spaulding will once again be in the top ten, after finishing 4th last year.  It’s tough to put him lower than he was last year, because I think he’ll be faster, and contend for wins more than he did in ‘08.  There’s going to be a LOT more competition in the division this year, so there will be a few new guys that will push him down those couple of positions.
 
9th - Bobby Magner was 5th last year, and won the most races of anyone.  He’ll have another great season in the Double Deuce Racing #22.  I see more checkers on the horizon.
 
8th - Ray Graham may live in Iowa, but he plans to run every race in 2009.  The car is kept and maintained near Oswego, and he flies or drives in to wheel it.  He’s got excellent equipment, and it’s a surprise that he hasn’t won a feature yet at Oswego.  Will this be the year?
 
7th - Tim Snyder has a Hawk Chassis that has been modified by Xtreme Chassis guru Paul Colloca.  Will this combination knock ‘em dead, or will it take some time to get going?  I think it’ll be a fast car, but not right out of the box.
 
6th - Jerry Curran is ready to rock and roll, after a 2008 season that produced his first entry into the Thousand Dollar club.  (The Thousand Dollar Club is comprised of feature winners in the supermodified division at Oswego Speedway.)  His Hawk Chassis looked fast on open practice day.
 
5th - Greg Furlong will always be a threat to win races or championships.  But he has struggled the last few seasons, by his standards.  He’ll win some races, but he’ll tell you that his main goal is to win one specific race.  “I’ll retire from racing full-time if I win the Classic this year”, Furlong told me.
 
4th - Pat Lavery finished second in points last year, and didn’t seem that happy about it.  But when he enters the Thousand Dollar Club this year, you’ll see that grin.  The veteran will have a great season in ‘09, and finally chase that stupid monkey away. 
 
3rd - Otto Sitterly will be awesome again this year, and win some races.  He’s the defending, and two time track champion.  But I’m picking two guys ahead of him this year, who didn’t race at the speedway last year.
 
2nd - One story that I read, on www.superracingnews.com said that Doug Didero isn’t sure if he was going to race the full season.  But car builder Paul Colloca told me that the plan IS to race weekly in ‘09.  Sounds like Paul wants to do it, but Doug isn’t so sure.  So here’s the deal - once he wins the first one or two races, and takes a big lead in the points, he’ll get into it.
 
1st - Joey Payne is my pick to win the championship this year, in the Strong Racing #99.  Payne is one of the best drivers in the division, and Pat Strong is putting him in some excellent equipment.  He’ll get his first un-winged super win this year, and be very consistent every week.  Congratulations in advance to the “Jersey Jet” Joey Payne, Pat and Terry Strong, and the rest of the Strong Racing Team.
 
A couple of drivers that I left out of my top 11 - and why…
 
Joe Gosek would have been a contender, but he apparently has had, or is scheduled to have some surgery that will cause him to miss some races.  He would have surely been a contender for the championship, and will certainly get a win when he does get there.  He drives an Xtreme Chassis that is owned by Al Archer and Rob Gunther.
 
Dave McKnight drives on the ISMA circuit full time, and drives the Syrell Racing #08 at Oswego when the schedule permits.  McKnight told me that he’s scheduled to run 9 races at Oswego, so you can’t win a championship that way.  I met McKnight at a JP Shaggy rainout party last Saturday, and I see why everybody likes him.  As my kids would say, “he’s a pretty legit guy”.  And quite a singer…
 
Keith Gilliam never runs a full season, so I can’t pick him for the top ten.  Just let me say this: the rest of the field is sure lucky about that!
 
Lou LeVea was 8th last year, and will be faster in 2009.  He’ll just miss the top 10-11 spots, because the field will be so much larger and more competitive this year.  Plus he’ll be pretty busy getting his son, rookie Louie Jr. up to speed in his team car #04.
 
The small block supermodified division will be pretty tight this year.  Here’s what I’ve got.
 
10th -  Barry Kingsley will have his first top ten points finish in 2009, as he’s worked very hard over the winter to be prepared.  And he’s made it very clear that like another driver was quoted last year, “I plan to use the bumper a lot more this year”.  Okay, he didn’t really say that.  That’s not Barry’s style.  But he’s going to have a consistent season, and avoid the wrecks, engine problems, and out of town weddings that have cost him good points finishes in the last few seasons.  2009 will be the year that Barry finally proves that “he’s what’s up”.
 
9th -  Dave Danzer is looking forward to the 2009 season, as his first feature win last year has made him very confident.  Actually, kind of cocky.  He and his Dad Craig and the Danzer Family Team have some great equipment, and did some repairs to the Hedger Chassis machine over the winter.  Should be a great year for Davey.
 
8th - Jack Patrick is loaded for bear with his Hedger Chassis, Chrysler powered machine.  He’s made some changes and upgrades to his #9, and should improve on his 10th place finish from last year.
 
7th - Rob Pullen finished 7th in points last year in his own car.  This year, he drives the Terry Solazzo owned, FFB Chassis #25, a team car to Mike Bond.  Rob will be fast, win a race or two, and have a great season.  And if he would have given me his bean recipe from his fundraiser a few weeks back, I would have put him in the top five.
 
6th - Kevin Knopp is the defending champion, and had the fastest car on the track most of the time last year.  Two questions: did the other cars catch up to Kevin in the off-season?  And did he use up all of his luck last year on the way to his incredible record of great finishes?  We won’t know that for awhile.  Like the supers, this division is going to be very competitive in 2009.  Knopp drives an FFB Chassis.
 
5th - Brian Sobus always does well in the points.  He’s a great driver, and he and his Dad have made some changes to his family owned Hedger car.  Brian has gone without a win the last couple of years, and will be more focused on that than he will on points.
 
4th - Dave Cliff Jr. was one of the fastest cars at the speedway on the open practice day two weeks ago.  For 2009, he’ll have two very potent FFB cars at his disposal.  Of course he’s hoping that he doesn’t need the backup car this year.  Great driver, great team, great equipment - maybe I’m crazy not taking him as my pick for the win.  But I’ve got it down to four very fast cars, and it could be a toss-up for any of my “final four”.
 
3rd - Mike Bond barely lost the championship last year.  He’s a fast driver, with a fast FFB car, owned by Terry Solazzo.  Mike’s a long time friend of mine, and I really hope I’m incorrect not taking him for the championship.  But that’s how tough this division will be this year.  Mike’s the best driver, but I still have two drivers ahead of him.
 
2nd - Dave Gruel drives Tim Barbeau’s #50 FFB Chassis.  In one of the craziest moves ever, Barbeau gave up the seat in one of the fastest cars at the speedway.  Gruel is a great driver, who is really trying to make up for a horrible 2008 season, where he failed to crack the top ten.  He’ll be tough to beat, for sure, and there’s only one guy that I can think of to do it.
 
1st - Russ Brown and Ray Hedger left the division to run Ray Hedger’s SST modified.  They were fed up about several things, and really had had enough of the small block supermodified division.  But apparently, they never said “never” about coming back.  But he’s not driving a car owned by Ray Hedger this time.  Yes, it’s built by Ray Hedger, but the owner is Ray Pike.  It’s a new car, but with a twist - a Ford engine.  At a recent track rental, the new car was VERY fast - 19.0 I’m hearing.  And not on new tires.  This will be a solid team. 
 
 It should be a fun season!  There are a few guys that I left out of my top ten. Here they are.
 
 Bill Moore would be up there somewhere, if he raced a whole season.  But I doubt that he will.
 
  Stan Gates was 9th last year, and will be close again this year with his Ford powered machine.
 
 Jason Simmons is another guy that will just miss the top ten, if he runs the whole season.  But I know he doesn’t always do that, so I didn’t put him in that club.
 
 Tim Barbeau is driving the Steve Abt backup car, which is the old Larry Muroski FFB ride from 2009.  But he won’t make my top ten because that ride could be called into service at any time by Steve or Dave Gruel.
 
 Rookies:
 
 Steve Abt is very well prepared.  He drove some a few years ago, but apparently not enough to take away his rookie status.  He’s got a brand new FFB Chassis, plenty of spares, excellent help, and the ambition to do it all right.  Steve will have a great season, and is my pick for rookie of the year.
 
 Andrew Schartner will drive the Tom Aaserud owned, Crow Motorsports Hedger Chassis ride that has been campaigned for the last several years by Dave Gruel.  Schartner is a mod lite driver, that will require a lot of seat time to get accustomed to driving pavement.  Aaserud sees a lot of promise in Schartner, and will give him everything he needs to get the job done.  Schartner has unfortunately not been able to attend the open practice or a track rental so far, so the learning curve will still require a lot of seat time before any results are seen.  I’d put them behind the eight ball at this time.
 
 Mark Castiglia was out for the first time during the open practice two weeks ago.  The rookie driver had purchased the Lou LeVea car, and looked very smooth for the amount of experience he had as a driver. (Zero).  He had some great times, and impressed me a lot for his first time on the track - or in any race car.  He’ll be very close to winning the rookie of the year honors.
 
 ---- Now that racing season is here, fundraiser season is starting to wind down.  But there is still one more upcoming event on the schedule on May 17th - It’s the Gates Racing #28 & #1 Fundraiser. Captain & Crew Golf Tournament @ Emerald Crest Golf Club, Palermo; 8am. $260/team of 4, 18 holes and one cart (2/team). Closest to pin/longest drive; pig roast included. Door prizes and raffles. Pig Roast @ Driveway Inn, 11am. $10/ticket; pig roast, corn, salt potatoes, salad. Contact Stan Gates @ 402-4254 or mudbus28@yahoo.com or George Knight, Jr. @ 591-5022 for more information.
 
 ----  Also coming up soon is a fundraiser for supermodified drivers Lou LeVea Sr.,  Lou LeVea Jr., and the Coon-France Racing.  It will take place on June 7th at Lakeview Lanes in Fulton, N.Y.  I’ll have more information for you as it gets closer.  But save the date.
 
 ---- When is your team’s fundraiser? I’m more than happy to promote your fundraiser here, as well as on my blog at www.gaternews.com. Just give me your information, and I’ll update immediately. Give me the word - and I’ll spread it!
 
 ----  This weekend will find me at Fulton Speedway’s re-opener.  I can’t wait to see the transformation of the facility, under the management team of John and Laura Wight.  And depending on how things go, I may even make it a dirt racing double-header with a trip to Brewerton Speedway on Friday night.  And oh - is there an open practice at Oswego Speedway on Saturday?  Those are boring if you’re not driving something.  I don’t like to be bored…..

 

Gater News Column -  May 7, 2009

Finally - the Oswego Speedway opener is upon us!  Yes, all of us Oswego groupies have been waiting a long time for this, and it’s here.  Will the weather cooperate, or will it be cold / rainy / iffy, as it usually is on opening day?  I’m so excited - I’ll probably cry if we have a rainout!
 
 ----  Last week’s open practice at the speedway brought out a bunch of cars.  16 small block supermodifieds and 12 supermodifieds were ready to roll, and turned laps in preparation for opening day.  That was a great field for a practice day, and is a sign of good things to come.  On the strength of those numbers, plus other cars that are expected to be at the speedway on opening day, I expect fields of over 20 cars for each division.  I know that’s not a huge field compared to a few years ago, but 20 cars will be a great show.
 
 ----  Who will win opening day?  I’ll make my predictions about that now, and then after opening day, I’ll make my predictions about who will win the championships.
 
 ----  My prediction for the supermodified winner will shock nobody.  Especially after his performance on open practice day.  Doug Didero laid down some 16.5 second laps on a green track, scaring the heck out of many in the division.  Didero and Paul Colloca, who built the Xtreme Chassis #3 obviously have the car very well prepared, and are my prediction for an opening day win.
 
 ----  Dave McKnight, who was not at the open practice but is enrolled in the commitment program, which indicates the team’s intention to run every week, is my prediction for 2nd.  Jerry Curran will be 3rd, followed by the team cars of Pat Lavery and Bobby Magner.
 
 ----  In the small block super division, Russ Brown wasn’t at the open practice, but is participating in a track rental on Wednesday, along with some other Hedger Chassis machines.  Brown is driving a brand new Hedger car, owned by Ray Pike.  Since Brown competed in the last three races of the season in Pike’s car in ‘08, his handicap gives him an excellent starting position, which should land him a great shot at the win, barring any crashes or mechanical problems.  Interesting to note is that the rumor mill indicates that this car sports a Ford power plant.
 
 ----  Dave Gruel would be my pick to win, based on his strong performance at last week’s open practice, but since he’s starting so far behind Brown, I think he’ll only be able to get to 2nd.  Brian Sobus (whose car wasn’t ready by open practice day), Mike Bond and Dave Cliff will round out the top five.
 
 ----  From what I saw, only one supermodified had an incident during open practice day.  Bobby Magner had a wheel nut come off of the #22 car, doing some damage in the process.  It was a rough day for Magner, but you can be sure that they’ll be on top of their game this Saturday.  Bobby’s teammate Pat Lavery had a good day, with no problems of any consequence.
 
 ----  As I said earlier, Doug Didero sent the supermodified division into quite a tizzy with his mid-16 second lap.  But not everyone is in a panic.  Most people didn’t put on new tires for the practice, which Didero did.  While some of the guys that I talked to were intimidated, not all of them were.
 
 ----  Pat Strong was satisfied with their day of practice.  While they didn’t turn a time below 17 seconds, Pat and driver Joey Payne were satisfied with their first day.  No problems with the car, and the way the car worked with last year’s tires was what they had hoped for.  “Plus, this guy’s good for another half a second”, said Strong, pointing to his driver.  Payne wasn’t in the conversation - he was too busy drawing on Jerry Curran’s car with a marker.  It sure didn’t look like they were intimidated.
 
 ----  Curran was doing some engine tuning on the Nuclear Banana, and should be in good shape for the weekend.  Keith Gilliam had the 87 at the track, and turned a lot of laps on Saturday.  Bob Reis was behind the wheel of the Randy Daratt owned #88, which will be shared in the 2009 season with Keith Shampine.   
 
 ----  Otto Sitterly was the only other driver that was said to have cracked the 17 second barrier.  The John Nicotra owned Hawk Chassis looked fast and well prepared.  He’ll be a threat this week, I’m sure.  Jason Spaulding and Stephen Gioia both had their machines at the track.  Greg Furlong’s car almost sounded like it wasn’t running right, but I’m not sure what the times indicated.  (The speedway’s website usually shows the times from the AMB scoring system, but that information wasn’t released as of press time.)
 
 ----  Lou LeVea Sr. and Jr. were at the track, but only with one of their two team cars.  The not yet numbered #04, which will this year be driven by Louie Jr., was at the track, but his Dad’s #03 was not.  Apparently the engine wasn’t yet ready for the Coon-France ride, but they should be ready by this weekend.  Both Sr. and Jr. got laps in the #04 car, but Louie Sr. was the one who spun it out - not the rookie.  Did he get it out of his system, so he’ll have no trouble when it gets down to the nitty gritty this weekend?  Or was he just practicing the most fashionable way to spin out, trying to impress the Russian judges?
 
 ----  In the small block supermodified division, Bill Moore had a nasty wreck during practice, when the steering wheel popped off of his #20 small block supermodified.  Bill was coming off of turn two at the time, and ended up bouncing off the outside wall before backing into the water barrels at the inside of turn three.  Fortunately for Bill, he wasn’t injured.  But his pocketbook will be recovering for awhile.
 
 ----  Dave Cliff and Dave Gruel were the two fastest small block supers there, both cracking off speeds of 19.3.  The two FFB cars looked real smooth, and ready to rock.
 
 ----  Jack Patrick chased clutch problems for the better part of the day, but eventually got the flashy Chrysler rolling.  Dave Danzer had some wiring problems early in the day, having a little flame-up in the pits.  Repairs were made, and Dave got it going and got some good laps later.  That’s what practice is for - to get that stuff taken care of.
 
 ----  Tim Barbeau got a lot of laps in the Steve Abt owned #58, which he’ll be driving weekly this year.  That’s the former Larry Muroski car, which will be called into service as a backup for Abt or Dave Gruel if they need it.  Chip Wood was wheeling the Rob Pullen #2, shaking it down as a “just in case” ride.  The Deuce will be activated for Mike Bond or Rob Pullen, (who drives this year for Terry Solazzo), if they need a spare car.  However, if Chip wins more features than Bond or Pullen, their cars will be used as a backup for Chip’s championship run.  As soon as I get a seal that barks my name…
 
 ----  Gregg Davis was rolling Shawn Walker’s car, shaking it down for “Big Daddy” since he wasn’t available.  And Barry Kingsley lapped the entire field - seven times - during his practice laps.  His #23 looked and ran pretty smooth, and had no problems at all during the day.
 
 ----  Steve Abt ran his laps with the rookies, which surprised me because I remember him running a lot a few seasons ago.  Apparently he’s eligible for rookie of the year in 2009, as he hadn’t run enough times to lose his possible rookie status.  Steve looked good, and got the new car down to some decent times.  Abt also has a 6 ½ person pit cart, that was interesting to watch load into the trailer.  (I call it a 6 ½ person pit cart, because that’s how many people it took to load it.)  It’s really the most amazing pit cart I’ve seen at Oswego.
 
 ----  Mark Castiglia purchased the Lou LeVea car, and turned some very impressive laps in his first ever time behind the wheel of a racecar of any kind.  Castiglia looks like he’s got a pretty good start on his small block supermodified career.  And Dennis Rupert II looked good in Lou LeVea Jr.s #95 ride.  Rupert raced a few laps - with bad results - a couple of years ago, but looks like those days are behind him.  He’ll be there this weekend, for sure.
 
 ----  The Mike Bond fundraiser was one of the most fun ones I had been to this year.  Millenium Music’s Ron Gray always does a great job keeping these parties going, and getting everyone to have a great time.  The pulled pork and the rest of the food, put out by the Lighthouse Lanes staff along with the TMS Motorsports team, was great.  But of course the best part for me was my debut as a Rap singer, with Ron’s karaoke mic.  I believe that I may have launched a new career Saturday night, as I was approached by an agent afterwards, who is willing to represent me for just a small advance fee.  His name is a Mr. Dennie, and I’m told that he has a lot of connections in the music industry, as well as auto racing.  It is suspected that Bobby Gangwer was also approached after his singing expertise was revealed.
 
 ----   Week three at Brewerton Speedway found some questionable weather, but they still were able to get the show completed before the rains came.  But barely!  I’m talking like two minutes after the final checkers fell, it started to rain.  Close call!
 
 ----  I know I say this every week.  But I don’t care, I’ll keep saying it as long as it’s true: the races at Brewerton are incredible!  Once again, a several lap duel for the win ensued in the modified division, and a new winner was handed the gold at the end.  Ryan Phelps had a great battle with Vinny Vitale for the lead, and eventually got the best of Vitale.  Not by a lot, buy he had the better hookup on the bottom of the track, which was where it was faster this week.  It was fun watching his Dad Roger try to keep his cool at the end, as I was sitting behind him during the feature.
 
 ----  Do you like to see “name” drivers get beat?  Brewerton is the place for you to go then.  The best Billy Decker could do was 3rd.  Matt Sheppard couldn’t get any higher than 6th.  Pat Ward was 7th.  And Alan Johnson?  He couldn’t get any further forward than 8th place.  I think that’s what makes Brewerton so entertaining: the big guys are there, but nobody’s handing them anything.
 
 ----  So how does it work if you own the racetrack, and then your car wins the race?  So far, cars owned by track owner John Wight have won all three races.  So far Billy Decker, Pat O’Brien, and Ryan Phelps have taken Wight’s cars to victory lane.  Do you pay yourself?
 
 ----  But once again, it’s not only about the modified division at Brewerton Speedway.  Somehow, the other divisions always put on a great show, as well.  It’s always close.
 
 ----  Sean Lias, who used to totally dominate the IMCA modified division years ago, came back to Brewerton last week.  But he didn’t quite dominate, this time.  Yes, he was fast, and yes, he almost won, but Kevan Cook held him off for his second win of the season.  It was a great race, and should be very interesting if Lias comes back to weekly competition at the speedway. 
 
 ---- J.J. Courcy wasn’t really himself, spinning out twice during the feature.  He still got back to 8th at the finish, but that wasn’t enough to keep Cook or Lias honest.  He’ll be back this week, though, because he has the coolest two initial first name ever.
 
 ----  The mod lite division looks as though it may be a runaway this season.  So far Tim Devendorf has finished 1st, 1st, and 2nd in his three races.  Last week it appeared as though the Jeff Hayes owned car is a hundred times faster than everyone else’s, as Devendorf passed what looked like 10-12 cars in one move, before cruising to the win.  On opening night, it looked as though Doug Williams may have been the man to beat, but I don’t know if I’d still say that after these last two dominating performances.  That car is perfect on the high groove!
 
 ----  Mike Mullen had a nice run in his #06 ride, finishing, coincidentally, in position #06.  6th is cool and all, but if your going to finish in the same position as your car number, wouldn’t you change your number?
 

 ---- Now that racing season is here, fundraiser season is starting to wind down.  But there is still one more upcoming event on the schedule on May 17th - It’s the Gates Racing #28 & #1 Fundraiser. Captain & Crew Golf Tournament @ Emerald Crest Golf Club, Palermo; 8am. $260/team of 4, 18 holes and one cart (2/team). Closest to pin/longest drive; pig roast included. Door prizes and raffles. Pig Roast @ Driveway Inn, 11am. $10/ticket; pig roast, corn, salt potatoes, salad. Contact Stan Gates @ 402-4254 or mudbus28@yahoo.com or George Knight, Jr. @ 591-5022 for more information.
 
 ---- When is your team’s fundraiser? I’m more than happy to promote your fundraiser here, as well as on my blog at www.gaternews.com. Just give me your information, and I’ll update immediately. Give me the word - and I’ll spread it!  JJcqracing@aol.com.

 

Gater News Column - April 30, 2009

Ooohhhh…I can feel it now - the gates at Oswego Speedway open up this weekend!  Don’t get excited though - it’s just an open practice.  But weather permitting, I can’t wait to hear that rumble and smell that smell!

 
 ---- Dave Gruel will be there.  He’s got the #50 all ready for the small block supermodified wars.  Even though his car owner Tim Barbeau has picked up a ride in another car, both racers - as well as crew chief Steve Reynolds - insist that the #50 will have the team’s whole focus, with the 2009 championship the main goal.  That is, as long as Dave and Shanna’s first baby, due in July, doesn’t hit on a Saturday night….
 
 ---- Bill Moore and Steve Abt will be there.  The two drivers had their cars all gussied up and on display at a great racing party last week.  I’d never heard of
Meeshell’s Restaurant and Sports Bar before, but it sure is a beautiful facility.  Steve and Bill had some great bands there in an excellent outdoor pavilion, and the weather was perfect.  A great crowd, great food, great weather, and fast racecars!  What more could we have asked for?
 
 ----  Barry Kingsley will be there.  He’s been obsessing over his car since the end of last season, meticulously going over each and every piece with a fine tooth comb.  It’s a thing of beauty.  The question is, will his crew chief Samantha Todd really let him take the car out onto the speedway, and get those horrible rubber stains all over it?
 
 ----  Rob Pullen will be there.  And so will his TMS Motorsports teammate Mike Bond.  It’ll be quite a contest this year to see who has the fastest team car of the two.  Pullen’s ride has been pretty much ready for awhile, since it was in the Gater News Motorsports Expo, back when it was still cold out.  Bond hadn’t yet fired the car as of last weekend, but didn’t seem too concerned about being ready for practice.  The only thing he was whining about was Pullen getting new lugnuts, while the Hall of Famer was stuck with “yucky old used lugnuts”.  It’s going to be a long season, Rob…
 
 ----  Shawn Walker will NOT be there.  But his car will.  Walker will attend to some family stuff on open practice day, so Gregg Davis will be rockin’ the #68.  That scenario will happen a few more times in ‘09, but “Big Daddy” will be there on opening day.
 
 ----  Dave Cliff Jr. will be there.  The Gnomey Racing Team also had a great fundraiser last weekend, at LaGraf’s Pub in Oswego. Ron Gray’s Millenium Music cranked the tunes, and Bird’s karaoke version of “Sing a Song” certainly stood up as the highlight of the entertainment. This two-car family owned team will be a strong contender for the championship, with a backup car that is probably just as fast as the primary car.
 
 ----  Supermodified driver Lou LeVea will be there.  But I didn’t say which one.  Will it be Louie Sr. or Louie Jr. who has the first supermodified ready to compete?   I swung by the LeVea shop a week or so ago, and saw a lot of work left to do to both cars. But father and son were hard at work, trying to get the #03 and the #04 both ready for opening day.  Louie Jr.’s car had the motor on it, while Louie Sr.’s engine wasn’t even assembled at the time.  But a lot of work can be done in a short period time if you focus - and if you have enough help.  Unlike the Tuesday night that I was there, I would predict that there will be a lot more than two people in the shop for the next several nights.
 
 ----  Pat Lavery will be there.  The Double Deuce Team of supers will be very well prepared for the season.  Will Lavery, or his teammate Bobby Magner be the fastest super on opening day?
 
 ----  The Strong Racing Supermodified #99 will be there.  Pat Strong informed me last week that the car that came so close to glory in 2008 is all ready to fly.  A new car, built by Pat Strong and Joey Hawksby will be done a little later, (the goal is June, barring any problems with the current car that would slow down progress) and the current #99 will turn into a wing car.  Driver Joey Payne is really itching for a win at Oswego in a non-winged car for the Strongs - and himself.  Itching enough to drive up from New Jersey every week to do it. 
 
 ----  Who else will be there?  ME!  Now don’t get all excited, Jaymates.  I won’t have my car there, and I’m not driving someone else’s car. But I can’t wait to see all of the cars, and all of my racing peeps.  If I could, I’d speed up time so I could be there NOW!
 
 ---- Week #2 of the new Brewerton Speedway ownership was another success.  The crowd was huge once again, the track surface was great, and the competition was awesome.  Not to mention the weather, which was amazing for April. 
 
 ----  Modified car counts were down a little from opening night. Willy Decker, Gary Tomkins, Del Rougeux Jr., Wallace Stacey, and Dan Vauter were not in attendance, after competing at Brewerton on opening night.  I thought that some of these cars may have been lost to Can-Am Speedway’s opener on the same night, but a quick check of Can-Am’s website showed none of these names in their rundown.  Where are these guys?  My guess - Monday morning, a representative from Brewerton Speedway was on the phone asking each of those drivers some questions: How did we lose your business?  How do we get you back?  And thanking them for their support on opening night.
 
 ----  Sean Beardsley was in the field for event number two, finishing in 17th in the final rundown.
 
 ----  The feature race for the mods once again came down to the wire, leaving the fans on their feet at the finish.  Only one early race caution slowed the feature, which always makes for some fun lapped traffic racing.  And lapped traffic decided this race.  Matt Sheppard seems to be the guy to beat so far this year, so nobody was shocked to see him flex into the lead on lap 27.  He used lapped traffic to grab the top spot, and I expected him to check out at that time.  But Pat O’Brien wasn’t going out like that.  A couple of laps later, O’Brien snatched the lead back the same way that he lost it, by utilizing a lapped car.  O’Brien was then able to hold off Sheppard, for his first Brewerton win.  Very exciting!
 
 ----  Here’s an example of how tough the modified field is at Brewerton: Alan Johnson was 8th, Billy Decker was 9th, and Pat Ward, who has been on a tear so far in 2009, could only get to 11th.  It was great to see my old pure stock buddy Shawn Donath finish 6th, and Tommy Sears finish 7th, even though he had the wrong number on his car.  (Sears has almost always driven #83, and now drives #10.)  “I can knock that number off of there if I have to”, said Tommy.
 
 ----  The IMCA race was great, as well.  Kevan Cook looked as though he was going to win his second feature of the year, but an amazing move near the end by JJ Courcy gave him the well-earned win.  Courcy made a great pass of Cook, I think using the element of surprise to win the race.  And earlier in the race, Rob Keller had a big lead, before getting passed by Cook when he drifted a little high. 
 
 ----  This IMCA division is pretty exciting to watch, as the competition is pretty close.  For the last few seasons, Dale Caswell has been pretty much dominant at Brewerton (and many other places) in the IMCA division.  But curiously, the Can-Am Speedway’s website showed that Caswell headed north last Saturday, where he promptly beat the field of seven IMCA modifieds that were on hand there.  Will Caswell be back this week, to run against a bigger - and subsequently tougher - field of IMCA modifieds?
 
 ----  It was another two race weekend for me.  On Saturday afternoon I crossed another race facility off of my list.  This is a new track, opened up last season, in Hastings, N.Y.  (Which is about ten miles north of Brewerton Speedway.)
 
 ----  Moose Mountain Speedway isn’t a big car track.  ( www.moosemountainspeedway.com ).  Moose Mountain is a sweet lawn mower racing speedway, that also races go-carts.  This place is really cool, and there was a great crowd of people on hand to check out the show on a beautiful Saturday afternoon.  Out behind a small engine shop is a beautiful little clay oval cut into the side of a big hill.  If you’re into small engine races of all kinds, you need to get there.
 
 ----  My buddy Corey Norton, after spinning out a little here and there, was able to pick up the victory in his division.  Corey’s got a sweet looking #22, lettered up by Luther’s Wayout Grafix, and he’s still in position to win every race that he enters this year.
 
 ----  Fundraiser season is still in full swing!  I’ve been notified of a couple of upcoming fundraisers that will be held to benefit some of the local race teams….
 
 ----  May 2nd - Benefits the TMS Motorsports #26 small block supermodified team, driven by Hall of Famer Mike Bond. The event will be held on Saturday, May 2nd, right after the open practice at Oswego Speedway. Friends and fans are invited to stop by Lighthouse Lanes and enjoy pulled pork, raffles, 50/50’s, and other great events. Music and entertainment are on the schedule, and the highlight will be a special “Dancing with the Stars Moment”, featuring Mike Bond and teammate Rob Pullen. The NASCAR Richmond night race will also be on the huge screens. Starting time for the fundraiser is 5:00, and a great time will be had by all!
 
 ---- May 17th -  Gates Racing #28 & #1 Fundraiser. Captain & Crew Golf Tournament @ Emerald Crest Golf Club, Palermo; 8am. $260/team of 4, 18 holes and one cart (2/team). Closest to pin/longest drive; pig roast included. Door prizes and raffles. Pig Roast @ Driveway Inn, 11am. $10/ticket; pig roast, corn, salt potatoes, salad. Contact Stan Gates @ 402-4254 or mudbus28@yahoo.com or George Knight, Jr. @ 591-5022 for more information.
 
 ---- When is your team’s fundraiser? I’m more than happy to promote your fundraiser here, as well as on my blog at www.gaternews.com. Just give me your information, and I’ll update immediately. Give me the word - and I’ll spread it!

 

Gater News - April 22, 2009

Yes!  Racing season has finally arrived in central New York!  Nice weather doesn’t usually happen in mid-April, but curiously enough, this year it worked out. 
 
 ----  The most exciting part about Brewerton’s opener for me is the “rebirth” of Brewerton Speedway under the new ownership of John and Laura Wight.  Just as the track (along with sister speedway Fulton Speedway) was on the brink of possibly becoming a nice site for a bunch of condos overlooking route 81, or some other type of bogus development, the Wights stepped in and wrote the check to save us all.  First impression was dramatic, as the most impressive new catch fence grabs your eye immediately when you walk in.  Along with a new flagman tower, dubbed the “Taj Mahal” by starter Dave Farney during the driver’s meeting.
 
 ----  “It doesn’t have to turn a profit - I just need to break even”, Wight told me in a conversation after the successful opening night.  A successful businessman, Wight has chosen auto racing for his release, and we all get to reap the rewards.  For several years, the Wights have owned several racecars, and sponsored or assisted drivers in many divisions.  Do they make money from their race teams?  I doubt that.  The love of the sport is what obviously motivates John Wight, and that love led to the purchase of these two fading race facilities, which may not have even been open for business this year without his help. 
 
 ---- As you can tell, I’m pretty charged up about the new situation at the speedway that has been such a part of my life since I was a little kid.   I can’t tell you exactly when I started going there, but it had to be somewhere around 1973 or 1974 when my Dad began sponsoring Charlie Fletcher’s #91 street stock.  Also around that time my father and Rusty Vincent (who many years later became my father-in-law) started building a car themselves (that was never completed, incidentally.)  My first race as a driver at the speedway was probably 1980 (at the ripe age of 15 years old), and if you go back through the archives at www.brewertonspeedway.com you’ll see my name in some of the results from then, up into the mid-90’s when I started driving at Oswego Speedway. (If you go looking, pay special attention to the pure stock results of 1989 - my career best four feature season!)  Brewerton will always be my favorite place to drive, and I maintain that I will still turn more laps at Brewerton before I hang up my helmet.  There’s nothing like heading down that D-shaped back straight off of turn two, looking at the lights, in the middle of a four car wide pack.  I have to do that again.
 
 ----  Fulton Speedway was also a big part of my childhood.  I understand that Fulton was in even worse condition than Brewerton, and will require a lot more work to get up and running.  That’s why Fulton’s opener is still a few weeks down the road, slated for May 16th.  But you can be sure that drastic changes will be seen at Fulton before that opener.  Fulton Speedway is one of the finest facilities around, but it has fallen into a little bit of disrepair in the last few years.  Crowds have gone down, and I doubt that the speedway has been profitable.  Wight admits that he has his work cut out for him getting  Fulton Speedway back to where it should be.  But he and his crew of some of the best in the business are certainly up to the task.  Harvey Fink, who brought both speedways to prominence before selling out in the mid-2000’s has agreed to run the two tracks for Wight, and will certainly do a great job now.  Again, I assume this is a labor of love for Fink, as well, who has come out of retirement to get these tracks back up to speed.  I couldn’t be happier with the new crew, and we as race fans couldn’t be luckier.  It won’t happen overnight - but I think this is a going to be a good year for local speedways.  The nation’s economy will keep race fans closer to home in 2009, supporting the speedways in their areas instead of taking their discretionary income to the Cup races all over the country.  I’m going to Brewerton Speedway a lot this summer.  And judging by the large crowd there for opening night, a lot of other people will be, as well.  Especially it the races are done by 10:00PM, as they were on opening night.
 
 ----  John Wight - you’re our knight in shining armor!
 
 ----  The racing?  Of course that was great!  A great field of big block modifieds were on hand for the kickoff, and a lot of big names.  The outcome was never obvious, as several drivers had their chance during the feature.  The most exciting move of the night came on lap 22, as Gary Tompkins and Matt Sheppard crashed while dicing for the lead!  Both cars went spinning into the first turn, also collecting the third place running Ryan Phelps. 
 
 ---- This activity handed the lead to Alan Johnson, who was in the middle of his patented drive toward the front.  As he always seems to do.  But nooooo…..  that  wasn’t the end.  Not when Billy Decker is in the race.  You can’t count Decker out at any time.  After a great battle, Decker emerged victorious in the final rundown, notching his one millionth win in the #91 Gypsum Express ride.  (Which is owned by John Wight.)  A great race, as always.
 
 ----  The top five was Decker, Johnson, Pat Ward, Jim Witko, Jr., and Kevin Bates.  “The other Phelps”, Chad Phelps made a great run from his starting spot near the rear, to get to 7th place at the finish.  Chad had some issues getting out for his heat race, starting scratch, and breaking a shock as well.  But a solid performance in the feature helped make up for the bad luck, and showed that the Xmaster General will be a force before the season ends.
 
 ----  Kevan Cook won the IMCA event, and made it look pretty easy in the process.  Ken Rogers and JJ Courcy rounded out the top three.  Of course Dale Caswell is still the car to beat in this division, as he looks faster than anyone else out there.  A fire under the hood ended Caswell’s evening.
 
 ----  Doug Williams was “electrifying” in his win in the Mod Lite division, and Claude Hutchings Jr. made the four cylinder super stock division his own.  Hutchings looks as though he could win every event in this division, but won’t be running weekly as he will concentrate more on the Dirt Sportsman team that his family owns.  It’s always good to see someone who is willing to challenge himself.
 
 ----  I also was able to attend the opener at Utica Rome Speedway, my first trip to that speedway in a few seasons.  But just as in the past, it was a great show.  Sunday night is a tough night to hold a race, but at Utica Rome, they pull it off because the races were all completed by 9:00PM!    Four great divisions, and they run it off quick. 
 
 ----  I’m always impressed with the way the drivers have to drive Utica Rome to be successful.  If you don’t toss it into the turn sideways, then jump right back onto the throttle, then you’re behind.  I drove that speedway in Dan Brown’s car many years ago, and I got dusted until I figured that out.
 
 ----  Thirty-one big block and small block modifieds were in attendance for the season opener.  And this race had all of the drama and excitement to make the evening memorable. 
 
 ----  Early in the race, Pat Ward and Mitch Gibbs battled for the lead, with Bobby Varin in pursuit.  On a restart, Ward made his move to the outside of Gibbs for the lead, which is the obvious hot groove at Utica Rome Speedway.  Gibbs would have none of it, and immediately crowded high to block Ward.  Ward stuck with it, and as Gibbs was preoccupied with his track-hogging, Varin ducked low.  As Varin took the lead, Ward went around in turn one / two, bringing out the caution that would send him to the rear.
 
 ----  The race then was to watch Ward come through the field.  He was on a mission, but with the lack of cautions, there just was not time for Ward to get involved for the lead.  He did work his way back to 4th at the end, but I think he was the fastest car, and would have been a challenger with a few more cautions or a few more laps.  It was fun to watch.  Varin, Gibbs, Todd Burley, Ward, and Ted Lamb filled the top five positions.
 
 ----  A horrible wreck at the checkers caused thousands of dollars in damage, but amazingly and thankfully, nobody was injured.  It appeared as though Stewart Friesen slowed dramatically when he had a flat tire, and then many of the cars behind him started stacking up, flipping and crashing.  It’s really a surprise that nobody was injured.  The Ray Bliss car appeared to sustain the worst damage.
 
 ----  Jason Rood was pretty dominant in the sportsman division, as he never really had any serious challengers for the lead.  Second through fifth spots were taken by Mike Button, Jeremy Vunk, Jeff Leslie, and Steve Way.  Button, Vunk, and Leslie had a great race for second, which was fun to watch.
 
 ----  The Pro Stock division had some great action, as well as one of those cheesy bush-league moments that you don’t get to see very often.  Rocky Warner was the winner, but his teammate was the star.
 
 ----  Rick Stone (Warner thanked him as his “teammate” in victory lane) was probably the fastest car on the speedway, but got a little bit antsy working his way to the front.  A blatant takeout of Louie Jackson got him penalized, but he wouldn’t stand for it.  Stone protested on the speedway when he was sent a few positions back during the next caution.  Then he went back to second place under the caution, disregarding what he had been told by the flagman.  The cars were then stopped, and Stone was then black-flagged.  I would love to know what his argument was with the flagman, as he and everyone else certainly felt that he had dumped Jackson.  Stone eventually headed to the pits, spinning his tires and revving his engine to express his displeasure.  But guess what - I predict that he’ll be back this week - and be fast! 
 
 ----  Switching gears now to Oswego Speedway, optimism is really getting cranked up as opening day nears.  May 9th is this year’s opening date, with an open practice slated for May 2nd. 
 
 ----  Recently released was the drivers who are signed up for 2009’s Commitment Program.  So what is the Commitment Program?  Is it similar to the “promise ring program”, used by the Jonas Brothers?  Not exactly.  The commitment program is an exclusive group of supermodified team owners who have “committed” to attend every race at the speedway, in exchange for a guarantee of  a minimum of $500 from the speedway each time they bring the car.  In addition, CP members are guaranteed a qualifying position, whether they qualify, or not.  Drivers in this exclusive group who miss more than one event forfeit their membership, but I would think that you’d have to be pretty confident that you would attend every event before you take a coveted spot in this 21 car maximum group.
 
 ----  Some of the drivers who have made the commitment have only competed a few times at Oswego in the past, and a couple are rookies.  I’m proud of them for stepping up to the plate, and look forward to seeing a minimum 21 car field every week.  Here are the 21 committed drivers:
 

1. Dan Connors has registered a car owned by Jeff Holbrook, #01, for his teenaged son Daniel to drive. 2.Coon France Motorsports have registered the #03 for Lou LeVea, Sr. and 3.#04 which will be piloted by Lou LeVea, Jr. 4. Syrell Racing has registered the #08 in hopes that they will be able to make all but one non-winged feature in 2009. 5. Bob Bogwicz has registered the #09. 6. Snyder Racing has registered the newly revamped #0 for Tim Snyder. 7. Double Deuce Racing has registered the #2 for Pat Lavery and 8. #22 for Bobby Magner. 9. John Nicotra Racing has registered the #7 for defending Track Champion Otto Sitterly. 10. Gioia Racing has registered the #9 for Stephen Gioia III. 11.Jakes Automotive has registered the #23 for Jason Spaulding. 12. Jerry Curran has registered his  #24. 13. Tim Timms, has registered the #33. 14. Mike Casey has registered the #47. 15. Hal LaTulip has registered his #56. 16. Pat Furlong, Jr. has registered the #72 for Greg Furlong. 17. Keith Gilliam has registered his #87. 18. Randy Darat from Cato, New York has registered the #88 which will rotate drivers Keith Shampine and Bob Reis during the season. 19. Stowell Racing has registered the #89 for Todd Stowell. 20.Ray Graham has registered the #90. 21. Strong Racing has registered the #99 for the “Jersey Jet” Joey Payne.  “Although opening day approaches with over two dozen drivers registered and more still expected, it is these twenty one owners that have signed up for the Commitment Program who will try to field a car weekly and not miss more than one non-winged Novelis Supermodified feature event in the 2009 season at the Oswego Speedway”, according to the speedway website.
 
 ----  This is quite an attractive offer for the teams.  It encourages them to be there every week, and rewards them for doing so.  Since the small block supermodified division may see short fields in 2009, I wonder if speedway management has considered putting together a commitment program for its popular support division.
 
  ----  Fundraiser season is still in full swing!  I’ve been notified of a couple of upcoming fundraisers that will be held to benefit some of the local race teams….
 
 ----  April 25th - The Balance Motorsports Team of #85 Steve Abt and #20 Bill Moore Fundraiser will be on Saturday, 4/25. It’s at Meeshell’s Restaurant, 609 Rte. 48, Fulton. Food featured will be a picnic menu (hotdogs, burgers and chicken), with beer included. Time is 1-5pm. $10.00/ticket includes music from members of “Under the Gun” and “Brand New Sin“. For information or tickets call Steve Abt @ 315-877-8825 or Bill Moore @ 315-727-7491.
 
 ----  May 2nd - Benefits the TMS Motorsports #26 small block supermodified team, driven by Hall of Famer Mike Bond. The event will be held on Saturday, May 2nd, right after the open practice at Oswego Speedway. Friends and fans are invited to stop by Lighthouse Lanes and enjoy pulled pork, raffles, 50/50’s, and other great events. Music and entertainment are on the schedule, and the highlight will be a special “Dancing with the Stars Moment”, featuring Mike Bond and teammate Rob Pullen. The NASCAR Richmond night race will also be on the huge screens. Starting time for the fundraiser is 5:00, and a great time will be had by all!
 
 ---- May 17th -  Gates Racing #28 & #1 Fundraiser. Captain & Crew Golf Tournament @ Emerald Crest Golf Club, Palermo; 8am. $260/team of 4, 18 holes and one cart (2/team). Closest to pin/longest drive; pig roast included. Door prizes and raffles. Pig Roast @ Driveway Inn, 11am. $10/ticket; pig roast, corn, salt potatoes, salad. Contact Stan Gates @ 402-4254 or mudbus28@yahoo.com or George Knight, Jr. @ 591-5022 for more information.
 
 ---- When is your team’s fundraiser? I’m more than happy to promote your fundraiser here, as well as on my blog at www.gaternews.com. Just give me your information, and I’ll update immediately. Give me the word - and I’ll spread it!

 

Gater News - April 2, 2009

Keepin’ it Real - by  JJ  Andrews
 
 Hey readers - I’ve decided to change the title of my column, after several years.  The “Limited Access” title, that I inherited from Linda Matteson was a great title when the division of racecars that I mostly cover were called “limited supermodifieds”.  A very clever play on words, invented by Linda.  But now that our cars have been renamed “small block supermodifieds” , it doesn’t make as much sense.  So after stewing on it for a year or so, I’ve come up with this new title, “Keepin’ it Real”.  Which is what I always try to do.  To me, keeping it real means always being truthful and objective, which is my goal.  Or “how I roll”, as we say in the ’hood.  (Hey - maybe that would be a better title - “How I Roll…)  Let me know what you think of the new title at JJcqracing@aol.com.
 
 ----  The huge news here for Central New York race fans is the impending sale of Brewerton and Fulton Speedways to local businessman John Wight.  According to news reports, Wight has placed a purchase offer for both speedways, and it was accepted by the current owners.  I assume that like any property purchase that I’ve ever been involved in, it will take awhile before ownership actually changes hands, but I think it’s a very positive thing for CNY race fans.  John Wight has a very good reputation in the area, and is the owner of several race teams.  He obviously loves the sport (I really don’t think that he owns race teams to make money!), and I’m sure that a lot of his reason for purchasing the tracks is his love of the sport.  More news will come out as the sale progresses, but I expect it all to be good news for the future.
 
 ----  The Gater News Motorsports Expo, held recently at the New York State Fairgrounds, was once again a great experience for race fans.  An excellent display of vendors, exhibits, and most importantly, RACECARS!  It sure is great to be around racecars, and racecar people.
 
 ----  Once again, the Oswego Speedway and NORA small block supermodified division was very well represented.  Four shiny, pretty small block supers were gussied up and on display at the show.  The Dave Gruel driven #50, owned by Tim Barbeau; the Steve Abt #85, and the Rob Pullen driven, Terry Solazzo owned #25, all FFB Chassis, were on display at the Oswego Speedway booth.  The Hedger Chassis #18, driven this year by rookie Andrew Shartner and owned by Tom Aaserud, was staged in a separate area of the show.  (Apparently the red-headed stepchild wasn’t allowed to sit at the big kids table.)  Great job, you guys!  And don’t tell the other guys, but I thought the #25 was the best looking of the four small block supers…
 
 ----  The Soule Racing #32 ISMA Super represented the supermodified division.  Soule’s car is always immaculately prepared, and filled out the ISMA booth very nicely.  Soule Racing is a great representative for ISMA, and does a lot to improve and promote the ISMA series.  Oswego Speedway’s non-winged supermodified division was not represented at the show.
 
 ----  Speaking of ISMA, I spoke with an Oswego driver that will make his switch to the traveling road show of ISMA for the 2009 season.  Craig Rayvals will be hitting the road this year.  “Just wanted to try something different”, was Craig’s reason for the change.  He’ll run the winged supermodified shows at Oswego this year, but doesn’t plan any other un-winged shows at this point.  We’ll miss Craig at Oswego, where he‘s been a long time supporter, and I wish him the best!
 
 ----  I also had a few minutes to visit with Ray Hedger, builder of many different types of racecars.  At least one of Ray’s new creations, the SST modified owned / driven by Kreig Heroth was at the show.  The 00 looked great!  Hedger has also built a new small block supermodified for Ray Pike, that will be campaigned at Oswego Speedway in 2009.  “We’re hoping to run every week”, said Pike, who has enlisted Russ Brown to drive the car.  The former track champion left the speedway in a huff two years ago, but will return after a year in the SST division didn’t bring the success that he and owner Ray Hedger had hoped for.  Hedger still plans to campaign the SST with Brown in ‘09, but not on a specific schedule.
 
 ---- Doug Reaume had his RoC Modified at the show, all ready for the 2009 season.  Reaume hopes to hit the entire Race of Champions series this year, and will pick and choose other races around that series.
 
 ----  Have you seen the movie X-men?  Well I saw X-MAN at the show.  His name is Chad Phelps, and he drives the X-car (big block dirt modified.)  The car was X-tra sharp.  In fact, I would say that it looks X-cellent.  I wonder if his X-wife likes the car?
 
 ----  I also saw Mike Mullen’s Mod Lite at the show.  The car looks great, and I expect to see him in victory lane this year.  And hopefully no more of those ridiculous flips, like I saw him do last year.
 
 ----  “Toddzilla”, Todd Rhoads had his sharp looking street stock at the show.  Todd’s hoping to win every race he enters in 2009, and will not be happy with second place.  So does he plan to knock everyone out of the way to reach his goal of being unbeaten in 2009?  Of course he does.
 
 ----  Supermodified racer Bob Reis had his gorgeous new modified at the show.  According to a story on www.superracingnews.com, Reis will focus on his modified, and share an occasional ride with Keith Shampine in a supermodified owned by Randy Daratt.  Shampine, who now lives in North Carolina, will run the car four or five times, and Reis will fill in the rest of the season.  I think it’s great that all of these parties were able to work this arrangement out, and that the Daratt team will be a weekly supporter of the speedway.
 
 ----  I saw Barry Kingsley’s small block super recently, but not at the show.  He was hoping to have it ready for the show, but he’s so meticulous and obsessive that it wasn’t ready in time.  Talk about attention to detail - Barry’s done a beautiful job on this car.  But I wonder - he’s so fussy about it, will he ever actually get the car finished?
 
 ----  Supermodified driver Michael Barnes has picked up a super ride for 2009.  Barnes will be driving the Gary Morton super, probably always in winged competition.  It won’t be a full season deal.  “I’ll probably run seven or eight races”, said Barnes, who will also drive his family owned NEMA midget in selected races.  The first midget race will probably be in June, and they don’t have a specific schedule at this time.
 
 ----  Larry Muroski has sold his #38 small block supermodified.  Muroski won a couple of features in his short small block supermodified career, but has apparently decided that he’s had his fun.  Larry was a one-of-a-kind guy, and certainly made his mark in the division.  He caught some ire from some of his competitors for his aggressive driving style, and controversial comments to the press.  But we sure knew he was there!  Steve Abt has purchased the car, along with the spares - basically cleaning Muroski out.
 
 ----  Abt already has a brand new FFB car which is ready to roll, but apparently the deal was too good to pass up on Muroski’s car.  So what will he do with the Muroski car, which was also complete?  Sounds like a heckuva backup car.  Or maybe he can find an old broken-down racecar driver to wheel it a couple of times this year.  One with two initials for a name. One who has five career small block super wins to his credit, but not in a few years. One who finished top ten in all three of the races that he competed in last year. One that has most Saturday nights off, because he’s not campaigning his own #93 car much this season.  One whose e-mail address is JJcqracing@aol.com.  Any ideas?
 
 ----  Shawn Walker threatens every year that he’s going to quit driving.  But he never does.  This year though, he’s not talking about quitting altogether.  But he will be scaling back.  The plan for 2009 is to not compete in every event, because of the time it takes.  “Between wanting to spend more time with my family, and all of the time I’m putting into being an Alderman (Walker is an alderman in the City of Oswego), I can’t race every week”, said Walker. 
 
 ----  But the car will be there every week. For the ‘09 season, Walker has a “co-driver” for the #68.  This grizzled veteran has many races - and wins - under his belt, usually in cars that he had built.  He stepped away from the sport a few years ago, and sold a lot of his equipment.  But this year, the dreaded Gregg Davis will be back on the track, wheeling the FFB machine on nights when Walker isn’t.  What luck - we finally get rid of Muroski, then we get Davis back.  Where’s the justice?
 
 ----  Fundraiser season is in full swing, and I recently attended two of them for teams that should be favorites for wins and the championship in their divisions.  Jerry Curran won his first Oswego supermodified feature in 2008, and should be in a very strong position for 2009.  He’ll surely be on most people’s lists of championship contenders.    And Dave Gruel, who is driving Tim Barbeau’s #50 this year is a multi-feature winner who has all the talent - and equipment - to take a run at the title.  Glad to help these guys out!
 
 ----  I touched base with a couple of supermodified teams over the weekend, who are on schedule for the season openers.  Bob Hoefer, co-owner of the Double Deuce Racing Team with drivers Pat Lavery and Bob Magner says that they’re in pretty good shape.  Not a lot of changes to the cars over the off-season, and they plan to concentrate once again on the non-winged races, and the Oswego Speedway schedule.  “We may run some winged shows, but we really want to concentrate on Oswego”, said Hoefer.
 
 ----  Strong Racing has the first car ready for the Oswego Speedway wars with driver Joey Payne, who will come up from New Jersey every week to run for the championship.  Yet another team that has to be considered a strong favorite for the ’09 championship.
 
 ----  There was a big meeting last weekend in Auburn, N.Y., to discuss a plan for a tire rule for the small block supermodified division at Oswego Speedway.  Reps Tom Aaserud and Tim Barbeau presented a plan that would save many racers a lot of money during the season by limiting purchases to only two tires per week.  Aaserud has spent a ton of time - and money - putting this program together for the good of the division and its owners. 
 
 ----  But boy, was Tom on the hot seat at this meeting!  A lot of “what ifs” and “how abouts” came up at the meeting, which reminds us that the proposed rule is still in the planning stages.  Unfortunately, the meeting became heated a few times as defending track champion Kevin Knopp and wife Kathy made it very clear that they were opposed to any rule that would limit the purchase of new tires.  Fortunately for the division though, it appears as though all of the other teams are on board with a rule that would save them two or three thousand dollars, IF all of the logistics can be worked out.
 
 ----  Let’s face it - the division is struggling.  Car counts have gone down substantially in the last couple of seasons, and you can’t help but think a $7,000 tire bill for teams that bought tires every week are good for a division that pays $600 to win.  I’m not making that up - that’s what it costs if you buy tires every week.  And in most cases, you’re at a disadvantage if you don’t have new rubber, but the other guys do.  The Knopps shot a lot of holes in Tom and Tim’s plan, and did have a lot of legitimate questions.  But if these can be worked out, we need it bad. 
 
 ----  Long story short, after a lot of negotiating, discussion, and ball-busting, I think this will benefit us all in the long run.  Nothing is cast in stone yet, but more work will be done in the coming weeks, hopefully to have everything in place by opening day.  Thanks to Tom and Tim for the hard work you’ve done to work this out, for the betterment of the series.  I’m going to stay open-minded, and do anything I can to help out the division as a whole.
 
 ----  Fundraiser season is here!  I’ve been notified of a couple of upcoming fundraisers that will be held to benefit some of the local race teams….
 
April 4th - “Big Daddy” / Shawn Walker Racing will be holding a chicken BBQ on Saturday, 4/4. It will be held at the Front Door Tavern, in Oswego, from noon until sold out. Runaway Entertainment provides the music. Tickets are $8.00.
 
April 4th - Mike Bruce / Bruce Racing #28 Modlite team.  From 1-5 at Scriba Town Inn. Featuring chicken BBQ dinners for $8.00, along with raffles, door prizes, 50/50 raffles, and music by Millenium Music. “Mike Bruce is a young racer breaking through and could use some extra support.  Come out and enjoy some good chicken, cold beer, good music, and a lot of fun”, says PR Director Dwight Cory.
 
April 11th - Chad Phelps  / Big Block modified car #X.  At LaGraf's Pub, 187 East 10th St. in Oswego.  $7.00 BBQ chicken dinners with all the fixings, entertainment from Dave Domicolo band and Bob Garafalo.  Food goes from 1:00 until gone, and includes 50/50’s, raffles, door prizes, etc.  For more info, call 315-207-0351.
 
April 19th - Jon Shumway will be having a benefit on April 19th at Greene’s Ale House, to raise some capital for his dirt sportsman. That benefit will feature the famous JP Shaggy, and probably some of Shumway’s sweet dance moves.
 
April 25th - The Balance Motorsports Team of #85 Steve Abt and #20 Bill Moore Fundraiser will be on Saturday, 4/25. It’s at Meeshell’s Restaurant, 609 Rte. 48, Fulton. Food featured will be a picnic menu (hotdogs, burgers and chicken), with beer included. Time is 1-5pm. $10.00/ticket includes music from members of “Under the Gun” and “Brand New Sin“. For information or tickets call Steve Abt @ 315-877-8825 or Bill Moore @ 315-727-7491.
 
May 2nd - Benefits the TMS Motorsports #26 small block supermodified team, driven by Hall of Famer Mike Bond. The event will be held on Saturday, May 2nd, right after the open practice at Oswego Speedway. Friends and fans are invited to stop by Lighthouse Lanes and enjoy pulled pork, raffles, 50/50’s, and other great events. Music and entertainment are on the schedule, and the highlight will be a special “Dancing with the Stars Moment”, featuring Mike Bond and teammate Rob Pullen. The NASCAR Richmond night race will also be on the huge screens. Starting time for the fundraiser is 5:00, and a great time will be had by all!
 
 ---- When is your team’s fundraiser? I’m more than happy to promote your fundraiser here, as well as in my column in the Gater News, a national trade paper. Just give me your information, and I’ll update immediately. Give me the word - and I’ll spread it!
 

 

Gater News - March 12, 2009

So will there be autograph signings at the Gater Motorsports Expo this weekend, Saturday and Sunday the 14th and 15th?  The answer is yes - I WILL be signing autographs.  But get there early - the line will be long.  My handlers say that I can only spend 4.2 seconds with each fan, though, so don’t hold me up.  Sorry it’s like that - I have a schedule to keep.  And where can you find me?  Uhhh…..I don’t really have a specific place.  I’ll be walking around.
 
 ----  Seriously, though, there are several people there signing autographs - that you would actually want.  Most importantly, NASCAR driver Mike Wallace will be signing on Saturday from 2:00 - until 3:30pm, courtesy of Adirondack International Speedway.  He’ll also be in the A.I.S. booth from 6-7:00pm.  Try not to ask him what I’m sure he’s already been asked a million times: “Is your brother Kenny always that crazy?” 
 
 ----  Gary Tompkins, Jimmy Phelps, Dale Planck, and Ryan Phelps will be signing on Saturday at 3:00.  (Apparently the “other Phelps”, Chad Phelps, wasn’t invited, and will be involved in the beer tent autograph session, with yours truly.)  At 2:00 on Saturday, ESS Stars Steve Poirier, Lance Yonge, Chuck Hebing, Mike Stelter, Cory Sparks, Mike Bush, and others will be signing. 
 
 ---- The Gater columnists autograph session has been rescheduled for another time.  Gater honcho Joe Patrick couldn’t give me the exact time, but told me that it will happen “as soon as I get a seal that barks my name.”  As I’m not that schooled on the ways of the aquatic world, I’m not sure when that happens exactly.  Stay tuned…
 
 ----  My favorite cars at the Expo are usually dirt cars.  I just love the dirt modifieds, as well as the street stocks.  But my preference is the cars with the actual bodies - not the prefab ones that are supposed to look like exaggerated versions of the real cars, but don’t.  And I especially appreciate the cars that have already been raced.  Painted dents show character.
 
 ----  Last week was John “Luther” Gray’s 9th annual Make-A-Wish Fundraiser.  It was a lot of fun for all of us who attended, but more importantly, a TON of money was raised for the children.  Last I heard, on Sunday, the total amount raised was over $27,000, as organizers continued to tally the donations.  Just an amazing job by Luther, Chrissy, and the many volunteers, sponsors, and donators that help to put this huge deal together.
 
 ----  One of the most touching moments I’ve seen in a long time happened when Luther brought “Heaven”, the adorable little girl who would be a recipient of this year’s wish, onto the stage for introduction.  The shy little girl could not have been cuter, and when Luther presented her with a special piece of engraved jewelry, there was not a dry eye in the house.  It was truly a great moment, and showed the true heart of our friend Luther.
 
 ----  But Luther wasn’t just a granter of wishes this last weekend.  He was also a recipient.  Keith Gilliam gifted Luther with a night’s ride in his supermodified for one night in the 2009 season, an apparent dream of Luther’s for quite some time.  A very generous gesture on Gilliam’s part, and certainly something that Luther has earned through his own kindness to others.  Karma is real.
 
 ---- Another great racing team exchange that took place was a donation by the Cliff Racing Team.  The Cliffs volunteered the use of their small block supermodified for this summer’s “Hoosier Mama” ladies race that will take place at Oswego Speedway on July 18th.  The very generous donation raised over $800 for the cause, and landed a ride for Sara Wygant.  Samantha Todd is the defending champion of this event, after passing Kathy Harrington on the last lap in 2008, winning the race in Barry Kingsley’s #23.  Samantha has had quite a chip on her shoulder since the dazzling win, and will welcome all competition in ‘09.  “I will dust any man, woman, or child who thinks they can go up against the likes of ME”, Todd was heard proclaiming loudly.  (Of course that’s made up - just a little retribution for some of Sam’s comments about my fashion choices.)
 
 ---- Other highlights from the party included Rich Hall, Luther, and Bob “Big Bird” LaBoda getting their heads shaved for donations.  Three handsome looking bald men, that’s for sure.  I’m also the proud owner of some excellent treasures from the auction, including a spot on a fishing charter with Luther and a few others. 
 
 ---- The NORA small block supermodified series has nailed down their full schedule for the 2009 season.  The series, which will receive support from several local businesses (to be announced in an upcoming release), will consist of four races: June 19th, Spencer Speedway; June 27th, Shangri-La2 Speedway, July 17th, Spencer Speedway (just added), and September 12th, Oswego Speedway for the 59th Annual Race of Champions.  Should be a great series.  For more information, see the NORA table set up at this week’s Gater Motorsports Expo, near the Oswego Speedway booth.  Or check out the NORA website at http://norasbs.blogspot.com/.
 
 ----  I got word of another supermodified team that will be in competition weekly at Oswego Speedway in ‘09.  Coon-France Racing has had a lot of success in the past fielding cars that win the rookie of the year award.  In 2008, Lou LeVea ran very well, and won the ROTY award.  And I believe in 2006, the team won the award with Mike Hooper.  In 2009, the team will field two cars on a weekly basis, with the intent of putting yet another driver in the ROTY gold.  While Lou LeVea has hopes for a great sophomore season off of his successful rookie year, Lou LeVea Jr. will drive the team’s other car, numbered with an 04.  The car was previously fielded as the Rocky Crucitti #11, and driven by Bobby Smith around ten years ago.  Should be a lot of fun for “Little Lou”.
 
 ----  An upcoming fundraiser that I’ve been asked to promote will benefit the TMS Motorsports #26 small block supermodified team, driven by Hall of Famer Mike Bond.  The event will be held on Saturday, May 2nd, right after the open practice at Oswego Speedway.  Friends and fans are invited to stop by Lighthouse Lanes and enjoy pulled pork, raffles, 50/50’s, and other great events.  Music and entertainment are on the schedule, and the highlight will be a special “Dancing with the Stars Moment”, featuring Mike Bond and teammate Rob Pullen.  The NASCAR Richmond night race will also be on the huge screens.  Starting time for the fundraiser is 5:00, and a great time will be had by all!
 
 ----  If you have any fundraisers of your own coming up, I’ll be happy to promote it for you.  E-mail me with the info at Jjcqracing@aol.com.  I’ll probably attend, as well!

 

Gater News - Feb. 25, 2009

Limited  Access  by  JJ  Andrews
 
 So we’re still legging out what seems to be the longest winter ever here in central New York.  I can see the light at the end of the tunnel, though. Definitely getting closer to racing season!
 
 ----  I’ll start right off with some exciting news that was just announced Oswego Speedway.  Here are some highlights from the Speedway’s press release:  “After twenty-two years of hosting the premier short track, short race, the “Mr. Novelis Supermodified” event, the Oswego Speedway doubles up with two “$10,000 to Win” feature races in 2009. The annual “Mr. Novelis Supermodified” scheduled for Saturday August 1st will be joined by the first ever “King of Wings” event on Saturday July 11th. A win in both events by the same driver will trigger a bonus that will double his payday from $20,000 to a cool $40,000.  The hot July racing season will kick into full gear for the winged supermodifieds when they make their annual Tuesday night visit to Stafford Speedway in Connecticut on July 7th and end the week with a new Sunday afternoon date at Cayuga Speedway in Canada on July 12th. It is a newly scheduled race at the Oswego Speedway, in between these two events, that will have the winged supermodified fans and competitors talking right up until race day.  The July 11th date was tentatively set up as an MSA/Oswego Wing 40 lap feature race. It will now be a 50 lap $10,000 to win race. All MSA teams are expected to join the Oswego regulars as this is part of the MSA/Oswego Wing Series. Many top ISMA teams and fans on their way from Stafford to Cayuga are expected as well to compete in and watch this giant payday for winged supermodifieds. The $10,000 to win Burkes, Community Bank and AT&T “King of Wings” race will start a maximum of twenty eight cars and the $10,000 to win “Mr. Novelis Supermodified” race will start a maximum of twenty four cars. These two races will be the signature winged and non-wing supermodified races for the 2009 season offering up the largest single day winner’s purse in supermodified history of $30,000 on August 1st.  Mother Nature will not spoil the fun for these two big 50 lap “$10,000 to Win” events. The rain date for the July 11th “King of Wings” will be Friday night of Classic Weekend. The rain date for the August 1st “Mr. Novelis Supermodified” will be Saturday August 8th.”
 
 ----  This is an exciting announcement for fans of supermodified s, and represents a lot of hard work for all involved.  “It was something that we had wanted to do before, but it took a lot to work it out politically”, said speedway co-owner Steve Gioia.  That $20,000 bonus will make quite an impact on both races.  I would think that everybody with a decent shot at a win will be sure to go out of their way to go after the winged show, to set themselves up for the huge bonus.  Obviously, winged drivers will have a huge advantage for the July 11th $10K race, but he’ll have his hands full on the second leg of the two part event.  The bonus really changes everything, and should add a heck of a lot of excitement - and talent to the speedway this year.
 
 ----  There is no clear-cut favorite to win both races, and the $40,000 total payout.  The top winged car drivers, like Chris Perley, Russ Wood, Charlie Schultz, and Dave Shullick Jr. have few or no wins in a non-winged supermodified.  And the top non-winged drivers, like ’09 track champion Otto Sitterly, Tim Snyder, Pat Lavery, and others all have very limited experience in winged cars.  But there are a few drivers that stick out as guys who could sweep the bonus. 
 
 ----  Dave McKnight: has won many ISMA races, and also scored a victory in a non-winged car as recently as last year.
 ----  Timmy Jedrzejek: he doesn’t have a ton of non-wing experience, but prior to the 2008 season, he purchased the very fast Furlong car that won many features.
 ----  Greg Furlong: he ran a full season of  ISMA a few years ago, even winning a winged super race at Oswego.  And of course, he’s one of the all-time greats in non-winged action.  He’ll certainly be a favorite to sweep.  And you can be sure he’ll be gunning for it.
 ----  Bentley Warren: how do you not put Bentley on your favorite list?  He’s won every type of race, at every type of track, in every type of car.  If he wins the winged race in Vic Miller’s car, he will certainly find a solid non-wing ride for a shot at the big bonus.
 ----  Joey Payne: everyone’s aware of his winged talents.  He’s won several winged races, but no non-winged at Oswego.  Well this season, he’s driving full time for Strong Racing at Oswego, without the “kite”.  He’ll have a “strong” program for both events, and will certainly be in a good position for both races.
 ----  Bobby Magner: Not only did Magner win more races at Oswego (3) than anyone last year, but he also has a few seasons of ISMA wing races under his belt.  I’m not sure what Double Deuce Racing has up their sleeves for winged equipment, but you can be sure that they’ll go after the $40K total.
 
 ----  In summary, I’ll pick Joey Payne or Bobby Magner as the two favorites to sweep the cool forty large.  Hopefully Perley doesn’t screw the whole thing up by winning the King of Wings, then not bringing a potentially winning non-winged car.
 
 ----  My congratulations and thanks to the management of Oswego Speedway, as well as AT&T, Burke’s Home Centers, Novelis, and Community Bank, for putting this excellent promotion together.  I think supermodified racing will benefit greatly from this exciting plan.
 
 ----  One other thing - if an MSA team wins the winged portion of the event, he’ll have a very tough decision to make.  MSA has a race scheduled for August 1st, at Lorain County.  Would you stick with the MSA scheduled event if you had a shot at a $20,000 bonus?
 
 ----  A couple of rules changes for the supermodified division has given the fans something to talk about during the off-season.  There are always going to be changes in rules, as the cars continually evolve, and owners and builders and designers are always improving the cars.  The most dramatic change is the return of the “split axle” for the cars in 2009.  The split axle front end was banned recently to slow down the evolution of the chassis, and hopefully simplify the cars, in the interest of keeping the playing field as level as possible.  However, after the very fast Xtreme Chassis, built by Paul Colloca, took the division by storm at last year’s Classic, it was time for speedway management to rethink.  Xtreme swept the top three positions with a totally new front axle design, which got everyone thinking.  And nervous.
 
 ----  “There’s no way to really tell if the axle was flexing”, said speedway owner Steve Gioia.  If Colloca’s design was actually flexing, the footprint of the tire could stay flatter, giving the cars a distinct traction advantage.  So the rules makers were left with a decision to make about the future of the division, yet again:  do they outlaw the Xtreme, or its front axle, causing another huge argument similar to a couple of years ago when they squashed independent front suspension?  Or do they leave it alone, possibly putting everyone without that design at a disadvantage?  In this instance, some of the guys who had split axles taken away felt like they were handicapped.  The decision was made to bring the split axles back for the Hawk and other chassis, in the hope of once again evening the playing field.  Controversial for some, but again it will hopefully benefit the division as a whole, in the long run.  “I think it (bringing back split axles) helps every competitor out there”, stated Gioia.  “We had to make the best possible compromise for all of the competitors and the speedway.” Gioia added.  “The creativity of the racers ” certainly keeps everyone on their toes in this division.
 
 ----  I also spoke with Strong Racing team owner Pat Strong about this subject.  Although many fans are up in arms about the return of the split axle, Strong didn’t seem too fazed by it.  He’s not even convinced that he’ll opt for the split axle on the new car that he’s putting together for Joey Payne to drive.  The always courteous Strong invited me to the racecar shop to better explain to me how the whole thing works.  They’ll have two cars in the works this year for Payne.
 
 ----  Another exciting event coming to the speedway this year is the USAC Silver Crown event that will be held on Thursday, August 6th.  The obvious intent of scheduling this event on this date is to hopefully get some Nextel Cup fans - and maybe drivers - to come to the event, since they will all be just two hours away in Watkins Glen, N.Y. that weekend.  Steve Gioia confirms that there are such talks in the works, but no amount of my asking would get a name out of him.  “There may be an announcement soon, but you’re correct that something is in the works.”, admitted Gioia.  “Is it a Cup driver?”, I pried.  “It’s more than one”, Gioia admitted.  “Maybe more than three or four…”,Gioia teased. 
 
 ---- I can’t wait for that announcement.  I even offered the availability of my own small block supermodified if any of these mystery drivers would be interested in double duty.  Wednesday, August 5th is a scheduled practice night for the Silver Crown cars.  A lot of exciting races happening at the Oswego Speedway in 2009!
 
 ---- Expect an announcement soon that the ARDC Midgets will be added to the Classic Weekend schedule.  I believe that you’ll see the cars added to Friday night of Classic Weekend, along with the winged Supernationals.  I’m also still very happy that our complete small block supermodified show will all take place in one day, on Saturday of Classic Weekend, along with the modifieds.  I love that!
 
 ----  A couple of scary dirt drivers are gearing up for the season.  Chad Phelps is prepping a ‘09 Troyer for his assault on the big block modified ranks. You may get to see the new “X” car at the Gater News Motorsports Expo in a couple of weeks. And Jon Shumway will be having a benefit on April 19th at Greene’s Ale House, to raise some capital for his dirt sportsman.  That benefit will feature the famous JP Shaggy, and probably some of Shumway’s sweet dance moves.  I’ll have more info on this, and a benefit that Chad is still assembling, in coming issues. 
 
 ----  The next great non-racing event that’s coming up is Luther’s 9th (and reportedly last) Annual Make-A-Wish Fundraiser.  It takes place on March 7th, at the Oswego (N.Y.) Moose Lodge.  The all day party goes from 2:00 PM to 2:00 AM, and features all kinds of fun and fundraising.  John “Luther” Gray works year-round for this benefit, and rounds up countless auction items and door prizes.  This year’s live entertainment features performances by Dave Wolever, Bob Garafolo, and the band Page 9.   2009 is expected to be the year that these parties have raised a total over $100,000, quite a feat.  Food will be provided for just a $5.00 cover charge.  Make plans right now to attend, and for more info, as well as a preview of the auction items, go to www.luthermotorsports.net.  If you have something of value, and would like to help support Make-A-Wish, please call Luther at 315-342-3792.  Or e-mail luther@luthermotorsports.net.
 
 ----  Then the week after that, March 14th and 15th is the 23rd annual Gater News Motorsports Expo 2009.  This excellent show is held at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse, N.Y., and is a gathering place for all of the cars and fans for all of the CNY speedways.  It’s a must see event, and I won’t miss it, for sure.
 
 ----  So Facebook isn’t just for teenagers, I’m finding out.  It’s kind of interesting seeing who’s out there, and checking out their sites.  Check me out by searching “Jay Andrews”.
 

 

Gater News - Feb 4, 2009

 
 Once again, the indoor racing events at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey found a huge contingent of central New York fans in attendance.  Around fifty of us rode a bus charter, organized by Larry Lee and John “Luther” Gray.  The racing was great, and the trip with 50 fun people was very memorable.  Plenty of stories to tell for years to come.
 
 ---- Ted Christopher won Saturday’s main event, adding his name to a coveted list of indoor specialists who have captured the gold at Atlantic City.  As most know, Christopher is an accomplished racer who has won hundreds of races, in many divisions of cars.  But this win will be enjoyed by the 50 year-old tough guy for a long time to come.
 
 ---- It almost appeared as though you had to take a turn on your hat to win this year in AC.  Billy Pauch flipped his machine during a preliminary race on Friday night, but still proceeded to win the night’s main event.  Then on Saturday night, Joey Payne took an early race tumble in the feature, only to charge back to 2nd at the checkers.  Could it be that flipping gives you some extra motivation?
 
 ---- Other training that seems to help you win in AC is supermodified experience.  Winner Ted Christopher isn’t a regular super driver, but he has driven supers, with I believe at least one win under his belt.  Joey Payne - multiple super winner, and in 2009 a weekly runner at Oswego Speedway.  Third place Mike Lichty - a regular on the ISMA super circuit.  Fast timer Lou Cicconi is a long time supermodified driver and winner, as was second fastest time trialer Bobby Santos III.  (Both were involved in feature race incidents, credited with 22nd and 11th in the final rundown.)  Moral of the story: if you run a super, you may have an advantage next January indoors at Atlantic City.  Or - if you really want that Boardwalk Hall crown, maybe you should get a supermodified for practice.
 
 ---- Probably the most disappointed driver during Saturday night’s main event was Matt Janisch.  Janisch was the leader of the race when he got turned around on lap 22 by 2nd place running Mike Lichty.  Lichty was sent to the rear of the field along with Janisch, as apparently race officials felt that the incident was not just an accident.  Payback for an earlier misdeed, Lichty admitted later.
 
 ---- Of course, there were several stories from this trip that didn’t necessarily involve the race.  The bus ride down is always a highlight of the weekend, as every single rider gets involved with games, jokes, and laughing.  This was the best group that I’ve traveled with, and I’d like to thank everyone who went along and made the trip great.  And of course Larry Lee and Luther Gray for organizing the event. 
 
 ---- Some off-track happenings included: a 3,000 quarter slot machine win for Floyd.  A reported dip in the ice cold ocean for a certain supermodified driver.  Bad movies on the ride home supplied by Larry and a certain columnist. There was a very scary popcorn incident on the boardwalk that found Lupa rolling around with Gilliam in about 30 gallons of popcorn.  I’m sure that the seagulls are still enjoying snacks from the incident.   An early morning Hall of Fame / Disco / pizza party that was NOT attended by any Hall of Famers.  (Apparently our HoF member Mike Bond was too tired - from ditching the bus ride.  Boohoohoo.)  Bond was also a victim of a stuck elevator for nearly a half hour - apparently advance karma for avoiding the party in his honor the next day.  All in all, I doubt you could find anyone in our party who didn’t have a great time, and get a story of their own to tell.  Looking forward to AC ‘10!
 
 ---- On Sunday, January 25th, several small block super teams met at Lighthouse Lanes in Oswego, N.Y. to discuss the 2009 season.
 
 ---- N.O.R.A. president Steve Reynolds kicked off the meeting with discussion about the traveling events that are being put together for the small block supers.  Cast in stone as of this date are a Friday, June 19th race at Spencer Speedway, and a Saturday, September 12th race at Oswego Speedway, during Race of Champions weekend.  This Sept. 12th race was originally scheduled to be the date of the NORA event at Shangri-La2 Speedway, but with the announcement of RoC being scheduled on that date, NORA was forced to change.  NORA board member Barry Kingsley has been in contact with SL-2 rep Amy Stilson about a new date, but that has not yet been confirmed.  It is expected that another date will be scheduled soon for NORA’s appearance at the brand new facility.
 
 ---- That date may be on Saturday, June 27th, as Oswego Speedway is scheduled to be closed on that night, because of the local graduation weekend in the area.  Currently that June date is being considered by NORA brass for an event at either Shangri-La2, OR a return to Adirondack International Speedway.  Stay tuned for more schedule announcements soon.  Spencer Speedway is interested in a second NORA event.  Adirondack is trying to work out one NORA event, as is Chemung Speedway.  For more information, watch the official NORA website at www.norasbs.blogspot.com , or read this blog.  Or contact president Steve Reynolds at steve@inkspotinfo.com.
 
 ---- A few sponsors have stepped up for the 2009 season to contribute to the NORA purse structures.  Look for a formal announcement of season sponsors soon.  Chris Porter’s www.sbsracingnews.com and Andrews Auto are two of the business contributors who are confirmed at this time.  All races should pay a minimum of $500 to win, and $100 to start every NORA race in 2009.  A point fund was also discussed, but competitors seemed more interested to keep the money in the weekly purse.
 
 ---- At least fifteen teams were represented at the meeting, with optimism and enthusiasm looking great for the 2009 season.  Oswego Speedway announcer Roy Sova and tech team Mike Bozzuto and Brenda Rice also attended the meeting.
 
 ---- Officers for the ‘09 edition of NORA were elected / nominated at the meeting, as well.  President Steve Reynolds, VP Sue Delong, Secretary Casey Danzer, and Treasurer Jayne Danzer will steer the ship in 2009.  Board members include Barry Kingsley, Dave Cliff Sr., Rob Pullen, Craig Danzer, and J.J. Andrews.  A membership drive and fundraisers will be organized soon to contribute to the NORA bottom line.  Points will be kept, and top finishers will be awarded trophies at the end of the season for their competition.  Race lineups will be determined by a draw at every race, with a draw for heat starting position, then a redraw for the feature.
 
 ---- Tom Aaserud then took the reins for the second part of the meeting, which was a discussion about small block super rules and representatives at Oswego Speedway.  Aaserud, along with Eddie Horne and Wayne White were division reps in 2008.  Ballots were passed out to vote for two reps for 2009.
 
 ---- Aaserud also discussed a proposed program for a rule that would allow the purchase of only two tires per week for the small block supers.  Through some research with Hoosier, Aaserud has found a scanner that would read bar codes on the tires, and allow strict supervision, effectively cutting the yearly tire bill in half for the teams who purchase new tires every week.  More research and discussion will be held on this subject, but the owners and drivers were very interested in pursuing this matter.  This excellent find by Aaserud may help teams substantially in the future by helping to limit costs.
 
 ---- Head tech Mike Bozzuto spoke about some rule ideas and concerns for the 2009 season.  Bozzuto says that he is committed to keeping a level playing field for 2009, and made it very clear that tech will be much more thorough this year.    Weight rules will be strictly enforced, carburetors will be closely checked, use of tire softener will earn a one year suspension, and engines will be inspected for lightweight parts. So will he really be ripping down motors, or is he just talking tough to keep people from taking advantage of what appeared to be a free for all in 2008? “Buy some gaskets!”, Bozzuto warned. 
 
 ----  The next great non-racing event that’s coming up is Luther’s 9th (and reportedly last) Annual Make-A-Wish Fundraiser.  It takes place on March 7th, at the Oswego (N.Y.) Moose Lodge.  The all day party goes from 2:00 PM to 2:00 AM, and features all kinds of fun and fundraising.  John “Luther” Gray works year-round for this benefit, and rounds up countless auction items and door prizes.  This year’s live entertainment features performances by Dave Wolever, Bob Garafolo, and the band Page 9.   2009 is expected to be the year that these parties have raised a total over $100,000, quite a feat.  Food will be provided for just a $5.00 cover charge.  Make plans right now to attend, and for more info, as well as a preview of the auction items, go to www.luthermotorsports.net.  If you have something of value, and would like to help support Make-A-Wish, please call Luther at 315-342-3792.  Or e-mail luther@luthermotorsports.net.
 
 ----  And then here’s an e-mail that I just received from Debbie Bond about the first race team fundraiser that I’ve heard about.  Here’s the skinny: It’s the “TMS Motorsports #26 Fundraiser.  It will be held on Saturday, May 2nd after practice, at Lighthouse Lanes.  Food will include pulled pork and the time will be 5:00 until sold out.   Raffles, 50/50, entertainment and watch the Richmond race on the big screen televisions.”  I’m sure I’ll get more detailed information as it gets closer.

 

Gater News - January 14, 2008

Are you going to Atlantic City this weekend, January 16th-17th, for the Indoor Races?  Or are you already there, reading this at the races?  Well either way, I’ll see you there!  Yes, this weekend is the annual pilgrimage, where race fans from all over the northeast converge in Atlantic City, New Jersey, for the Gambler’s Classic indoor midget races at Boardwalk Hall. 
 
 ---- Fifty plus of us central New Yorkers partake in an annual bus trip assembled by Larry Lee and John “Luther” Gray.  We’ll have a noisy, rowdy ride down there on Friday morning, where we’ll play cards, movies, and “left, right, center”. (Four spots are still left on the bus, if you’re interested.) Many of us will stay at the Super 8, and head out from there.   The races take place on Friday and Saturday nights, at 7:30.  Most go to the races on both nights, but some only go on Saturday.  A group of us will head out to Hooters on Friday night, prior to the races.  Several of us are planning to find a place to watch the SU - Notre Dame basketball game at noon on Saturday.  Many will also make their way to the 2009 Motorsports race car and trade show, also taking place this weekend at the NJ convention center, which is walking distance from the other destinations. Several bars and clubs will help people pass the time.  And of course, there are plenty of casinos and clubs for the gamblers in the group.  There will be no shortage of entertainment for everyone on the trip.  See you there - or here, depending on when and where you’re reading this.
 
 ----  Word on the street is that Larry and Luther have secured the actual bus used for the reality show “Rock of Love Bus”.  We will all have to pledge our love to Bret Michaels for admittance. 
 
 ----  And the race.  Almost 100 drivers are pre-registered as of January 11th, which really amps up the pressure for the drivers that are hoping to make their way into the 24 car field.  The five qualifying heats on Friday night will be all-out wars, and the 24 car eliminator on Saturday, which transfers the final four, is a treat to watch. Slingshots and champ carts fill out the program, which are sometimes serious crash fests.  Especially the slingshots.  Last year’s slingshot events were a non-stop demolition derby, for sure.
 
 ----  While we’re still waiting for Oswego Speedway’s schedule to be announced, there are a few interesting Oswego Speedway tidbits that have leaked out.  I’m not sure when the official schedule comes out, but I expect it very soon.
 
 ----  Probably the leading story is the fact that the USAC Silver Crown cars are going to be in competition at Oswego in 2009.  The USAC website shows Thursday, August 6th as the night that the cars will be in attendance.  The key to this date is the fact that the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, and all of its stars, will be racing at nearby Watkins Glen Speedway.  The hope is that since a few of the Cup drivers own or are associated with Silver Crown cars, perhaps a few of the Cup drivers could be in attendance.  Especially since it’s a Thursday night.
 
 ----  But is this race an Oswego Speedway managed event, or will an outside entity lease the facility to run the USAC event?  I’m hearing that it’s choice B. - that an outside entity has leased the facility from owners Steve Gioia and Pat Furlong.  The USAC website shows that the race’s “special event organizer” is Don Kenyon, who is also involved in other USAC and racing promotions through his company, DK Promotions.  The grapevine would indicate that Kenyon also has ties to Kasey Kahne Racing, which is also involved in promoting this event.  Which makes it a natural for Kahne’s involvement possibly bringing himself, and some of his NASCAR cronies to the speedway for the night.  Yes, I’m jumping to a lot of conclusions here, but it all makes sense.  Stay tuned - should be a great show!
 
 ----  And the other cool part of the deal?  Of course they’ll need a second division of cars for the night.  My hope would be that supermodifieds would be showcased that evening, in front of a potentially huge crowd, of potential new customers.  Plus, I’d be willing to bet that a few super owners would offer up their ride, or pull out a second car for a guest shot from a NASCAR driver.  This could be a big deal.  Hopefully my theories all pan out.
 
 ----  And one more thing - if the small block supermodifieds end up being the second division with the Silver Crown cars, I hereby offer up the use of my own small block supermodified to any Cup driver who may be interested.  I’ll supply, field, crew, and set up my car to any Stewart, Kahne, Newman, Edwards, or anyone like them who would like to try it out.  That would be fun!
 
 ----  Speaking of small block supers, the NORA small block series has landed an outside event for our cars in 2009.  While there had not been an official announcement or press release as of press time, I’ve confirmed that Shangri-LaII Speedway has decided to add a NORA race to their schedule of events for the season, tentatively on Saturday, September 12th.   The date will be the final night of points for the four regular divisions of modifieds, late models, sport mods, and street stocks.  The new Tioga Center, N.Y. oval will be a brand new facility in 2009, and a recent kick-off meeting was very well attended by many.  For more information on the speedway, go to www.shangrila-2.com .  More info in the upcoming months about the NORA race there.
 
 ----  Here’s what I’m most excited about:  as the winner of the first ever small block super event at another track a few years back, Adirondack Speedway, I think I could go there with a lot of confidence.  That was definitely a career highlight for me, and I’m about due for another career highlight.  Look out Shangri-LaII!
 
 ----  Back to Oswego Speedway, I’ve got some more schedule information.  Again, not officially announced yet, but I’m hearing that Classic Weekend is changing back to the format from a few years ago.  Friday night will be for winged supers.  Saturday will be for small block supers, RoC modifieds, and the Ohio Buckeye Sprints.  And Sunday will again focus on the non-winged supermodified division exclusively, including time trials in the morning.  Just like the old days.
 
 ----  I applaud these changes, as I’ve always been a fan of NOT racing our cars on Sunday.  I’m very happy about that.
 
 ----  The part about this whole program change that should make the competitors happiest is the pit pass implications.  If you run a winged super, you only have to purchase ONE pit pass, for Friday night.  Small block super teams only have to buy a Saturday pit pass.  Of course, many people will buy pit passes for two or more days, but this year they won’t be forced to.  A tip of the hat to Oswego Speedway management for responding to the requests of many!
 
 ----  It’s also a distinct possibility that the NEMA midgets will be back in action at Oswego in 2009, at some point during Classic Weekend.  Again, not official yet, but the wheels are in motion.
 
 ----  Also a possibility for 2009 - a $10,000 to win event for the winged supermodified division.  That had been discussed in the past, and still may materialize for 2009.
 
 ----  Another great non-racing event that’s coming up is Luther’s 9th (and reportedly last) Annual Make-A-Wish Fundraiser.  It takes place on March 7th, at the Oswego (N.Y.) Moose Lodge.  The all day party goes from 2:00 PM to 2:00 AM, and features all kinds of fun and fundraising.  John “Luther” Gray works year-round for this benefit, and rounds up countless auction items and door prizes.  This year’s live entertainment features performances by Dave Wolever, Bob Garafolo, and the band Page 9.   2009 is expected to be the year that these parties have raised a total over $100,000, quite a feat.  Food will be provided for just a $5.00 cover charge.  Make plans right now to attend, and for more info, as well as a preview of the auction items, go to www.luthermotorsports.net.  If you have something of value, and would like to help support Make-A-Wish, please call Luther at 315-342-3792.  Or e-mail luther@luthermotorsports.net.

 

Gater News - December 18, 2008

         Is it hard to think about racecars when the ground is covered with snow?  Not for me - I’m always thinking about racecars!  So what do racing people do around Christmas time?  They get together for Christmas parties - with their racing friends.  In the last couple weeks I’ve been to several different parties and events, and all but one was with my racing friends!  And the one that wasn’t with my racing buddies?  That was with my wife April’s company.  And I talked about RACING with the boss, and several of her co-workers.  Perhaps I do have a problem…
 
 ----  But unlike you, (well, okay, not all of you…) I’ve seen a race recently.  Real cars.  Real speed.  Outside.  A crew of us race fans took a five hour ride south on November 29th to a very cool race track.  Many of you have heard of Wall Township Speedway, and I was very glad that we made our first trip to Wall for the 35th  Turkey Derby.  And it almost didn’t happen, because Wall had not held any events in 2008.  The track had been closed down, and put up for sale by the owners.  Like many speedways across the country, the value of the land for development will soon exceed the value of how much revenue could be made there as a speedway. 
 
 ----  But past Wall operations manager Jim Morton, along with many volunteers to spruce the place up and get it ready, made the commitment to get Wall fired back up for another Turkey Derby.  And it was a rousing the success.  The place was PACKED, the racing was excellent, and I’m now officially hooked on Wall Township Speedway.  If you’ve never been there, you’re missing out on a unique place - small, high banked, and FAST.  There of course is a lot of question as to whether or not there will ever be any more races at Wall, but an announcement by Morton on race day would indicate that Wall has not seen it’s last event.  “Stay tuned - we ain’t done yet!”, was Morton’s announcement on race day.  Sounds good to me.
 
 ----  And I learned something else about Wall Township Speedway.  On the track, anything goes!  If you want to win at Wall, just double up on that front bumper, and get using it!  I saw the dirtiest, most aggressive, conscience-free, entertaining display of driving that I had ever seen, by Jimmy Blewett.  Most people called it the “Turkey Derby”, but I’d call it “The Jimmy Blewett Show”.
 
 ---- Of course Blewett won the tour mod feature, coming from the rear more than once, flawlessly muscling every car in between him and the checkers.  Wrecks. Close calls. Dirty moves. Precision driving. Slide jobs. He pushed Bill Weichert so hard down the back straight that he climbed and rode the third turn wall.  At any other race, that would have earned him an instant DQ, but I’m sure glad they didn’t. At another point, he blasted a guy so hard that his car bounced forward and spun the car in front of him.  It was a contact dump - courtesy of Jimmy Blewett.  If somebody ever drove me like that, I would let him go, then immediately take him out - if I could catch him.
 
 ----  It was like watching a train wreck - I was shocked, but I couldn’t take my eyes off of him.  And neither could anyone else in the place.  Oswego Speedway needs a guy like Jimmy Blewett for excitement - but please not in the division where I have money invested.  Actually, his show would never fly at Oswego.  Race director Chuck Handley’s voice would be cracking and creaking over the one-way radio after five laps of Blewett’s demonstration, and he would be parked for the night. (“And don’t bring it back next week!”, I heard Handley threaten once, to a driver that raced the next week.)  I’m just thankful that nobody was hurt.
 
 ----  But through Blewett’s antics, you can also see talent.  It’s one thing to rough someone up, but you still have to be faster than the guy in front of you to catch him so you CAN beat him up.  And Blewett was the fastest car on the track, no question.  I’m told that you have to use your bumper at Wall, because it’s so tight.  Blewett has certainly perfected that, for sure.
 
 ---- As you may expect, Blewett wasn’t particularly apologetic in victory lane.  “I was just doing what I had to do to win the race”, was one dagger.  But the best comment was this, “for every superhero like Matt Hirschman, (the last car that he punted) there’s gotta be a villain like me.  Sometimes the villain wins… most of the time, Brotha!”  As troubling as it would be to race against him, Blewett’s brashness is very entertaining to watch.  All I know is that he’s got to be the toughest guy around, because I bet at least four or five guys were lined up to punch him in the nose after that race. 
 
 ---- The announcer called him “Showtime”, but I’ve got my own nickname: Jimmy Blewett - “The Man Without a Conscience”.
 
 ----  Pete Brittain almost stole the show, however.  Brittain hitched his wagon to Blewett’s spiteful star, and put himself in place for the shocker just a couple of laps from the finish.  Every hole that Blewett smashed open was plenty big enough for Brittain, (as well as a few school busses) to cruise right through.  The only car Brittain had to deal with was Blewett.  But he didn’t learn anything while he was glued to Blewett’s bumper for all of those laps.  Or maybe he did learn something, and didn’t like what he saw.  All he had to do to win the Turkey Derby was feed Blewett a big steaming plate of “get outta my road!”.
 
 ---- Instead, Brittain attempted to pass Blewett fair and square.  A last lap shot to pass on the outside failed, as Brittain spun in the marbles.  It was refreshing to see a clean pass attempted, and it would have been great if it worked out.  But give Brittain all the credit in the world for keeping it clean.  What he lost in money, he sure made up in “solid points”.  I hope karma keeps that in mind for Brittain in the future.
 
 ----  Matt Hirschman led the first 88 laps of the 100 lap event, but his older tires certainly were a disadvantage at the end of the race.  He was one of a very few (maybe the only) that never took a pit stop during the feature.  It was impressive that he held on for second.  Hirschman was the only driver to crack twelve seconds (11.996) during time trials on the 1/3 mile speedway.  He wasn’t happy in victory lane, as you may imagine, accusing Blewett of “knocking everybody out of the way”. 
 
 ----  Rowan Pennink won the SK modified portion of the Turkey Derby.  Pennink started 7th, but had to come from the back on the tight oval.  Pennink took the lead on lap 73, then had to hold off the illustrious Blewett.  Once again, the crowd went wild when Blewett got into 2nd, and went to work on Pennink’s bumper.  But this time, Blewett was sent spinning into the infield on lap 92.  Pennink was very excited in victory lane, and he deserved it.  Another great race.
 
 ----  All in all it was a great race, and a great trip.  Thanks to Barry Kingsley for putting the trip together, and thanks to Debi Kingsley, Joe Kingsley, and Samantha Todd for traveling along, and also for allowing us to cross “Hooters of Princeton” off of my list on the way home.  The rest of the finishers and full results and race story will be found elsewhere in this paper.
 
 ----  Here are a few news stories that I’ve picked up in my travels, related to Oswego Speedway and its competitors:
…. The USAC Series has listed a Silver Crown event for August 6th at Oswego.  And since this is the same weekend as the Watkins Glen Sprint Cup event, there may be some of the big boys in town for this race.
…. The mid-September MSA / Oswego Super Challenge race at Sandusky will be a non-winged event.  This race should definitely earn a lot more support from the Oswego guys, who were at a disadvantage every time they went up against the winged regulars.
….  Unconfirmed because the schedule isn’t out yet, but it’s been floated that the season opener will go back to Saturday night, May 9th.  Mother’s Day openers in recent seasons have put many racers in hot water to start the season.
….  Rob Pullen will take over the ride in the second Terry Solazzo owned small block super that was vacated by Rick Zeigler.  Not sure what will happen to Pullen’s car, but it sounds like another loss of a car for the shaky small block super field.
….  And my favorite one: Pat Strong tells me that Joey Payne will run a FULL season at Oswego in 2009, in the Strong Racing #99.  Many of us are quite excited about seeing the “Jersey Jet” at Oswego weekly, as he will do everything in his power to get the Strongs a win at Oswego.  This would be a very popular win, as Pat and Terry Strong are some of the longest running, and most respected supermodified owners in the sport.  And Joey Payne is one of the most exciting and talented drivers to ever strap into a super - yet he has never won a non-winged supermodified event at Oswego.  Could ’09 be the year?  I’m counting on it. 
 
 ----  Next race for me is coming up soon, in Atlantic City.  The indoor races at Boardwalk Hall are always a great experience, and I’m looking forward to it.  The TQ Midgets and Micro sprints run together, and currently over 70 drivers are registered.  Some of the pre-registered names include: Ryan Bartlett, Johnny Payne, Ted Christopher, Lou Cicconi, Jeff Hoetzler Sr. and Jr., Mike Lichty, Billy Pauch, Erick Rudolph, and the previously mentioned Joey Payne.  Highly recommended!
 
 ----  Larry Lee and John “Luther” Gray are once again planning a bus trip for the Atlantic City indoor races on Friday, January 16th. The bus leaves Oswego on Friday morning, and comes home on Sunday, January 18th. The races take place on Friday and Saturday evening at Boardwalk Hall.
 
 ----  This trip has become an annual winter racing excursion for many central New Yorkers, as well as several race fans who drive from all around to ride the “AC Party Bus". Several non race fans also ride the bus down, to take advantage of the AC gambling and nightlife. Larry also arranges lodging at the local Super 8, just off the Boardwalk, which is a great location. He is always able to secure several rooms, at a great discount. Of course you may stay wherever you like, but that resource is available by contacting Larry Lee.  The price for round trip transportation this year is $70 each.  Seats are still available by contacting Larry Lee 315-343-9099, or hammerlee99@verizon.net., or Luther at 315-342-3792 / luther@luthermotorsports.net .  Sign up now - a great time is always had by all.
 
 ----  An organization known as USA Racing Inc. (United Supermodified Association) met recently to discuss the promotion of non-wing supermodified racing at Oswego Speedway.  The most recent general membership meeting, was held at Lighthouse Lanes in Oswego, N.Y., and was very well attended. Thirty plus people attended the private meeting, representing 22 supermodifieds and over 17 teams. USA’s goals are to support and strengthen the non-winged supermodified division at Oswego Speedway. Currently ISMA and MSA winged supermodified teams have strong representation, and the USA goal is to keep the non-winged supers growing and healthy, as well. A USA board of seven has been formed, and a two man tech team will work in conjunction with Oswego’s head tech Mike Bozzuto to keep all supermodified s legal. The USA board is as follows: President - Bob Hoefer. Vice President - Pat Strong. Secretary / Treasurer - Kathy Hoefer - Board of directors - Jake Ratcliff, Mike Foster, Chuck Handley, and Bobby Gangwer. Engine builders Doug Holmes and Skip Onmacht have been recruited to assist with technical inspections and rule enforcement.
 
 ----  Several topics were discussed in the nearly two hour meeting. One subject that commanded a lot of interaction was rules infractions and disqualifications. The board has compiled a list of five rules infractions that they felt should warrant a DQ, and put that up for discussion. Those top five were:
1. The use of tire softener.
2. Left side weight rule.
3. Total weight rule.
4. Cubic inch rule.
5.Traction control.
Although the USA organization does not have the authority to enforce rules or impose punishments, it would seem that a united organization of the majority of supermodified teams would be strongly considered as a viable voice by speedway management. USA’s recommendations will certainly be strongly considered, as speedway management has shown in the past willingness to make decisions and rules based upon the majority of what the competitors would prefer.
 
 ----  Other items discussed included:
- Should competitors be forced to purchase their tires on race day, to eliminate use of tire softeners? It was discussed that top five teams from the previous week, plus anyone who had not raced the previous week would have to purchase their tires on race day.
- The use of aero tubing in the construction of the chassis and some bolt-on parts created a lot of conversation. The current rule was read, but wasn’t clear cut enough to make a definite determination. The subject was tabled. USA may find a better way to clarify the rule, so it is less vague in the rulebook for future construction.
- A “protest form” will be developed by the board, for suggested use in 2009. This form will be submitted by a driver or owner, to follow up on a rules infraction concern that someone may have. The form will be kept confidential, but will be kept in a USA file for future reference, in case another team has a similar concern in the future.
- It was discussed that the speedway point fund may be included into the weekly purse, as opposed to at the end of the season. The speedway has agreed to contribute $2,000 a week toward this purse addition. A competitor has also offered to match that $2,000 / week offer, which could bring the purse up to the $16,000 - $18,000 range weekly. This CONCEPT would get at least $500 minimum into every car’s purse every week. This program is still very early in the planning stages, and is a work in progress. Most of the teams expressed great interest in this concept, which will be discussed much more in the future.
- Some discussion was also held about how that extra purse money should be distributed. In the top finishing positions, or further back?
- Extra tow money was discussed for traveling teams from MSA or ISMA to help cover expenses from a long tow to compete at Oswego Speedway.
- There was some discussion about asking that the $10,000 to win event be turned into a $5,000 to win event, with the other $5,000 to be distributed throughout the balance of the field. However, it is unlikely that the same “buzz” would be created for a $5K race vs. a $10K race, and would probably bring less fans. The vote was fairly even, so this idea will be discussed more in the future.
 
 ---- USA teams will meet again on January 11th to discuss these and other ideas for the betterment of non-winged supermodified s at Oswego Speedway. More information on the purse / point fund concept will be available at that time, and the 2009 schedule should also be available at that time.
 
 ----  For more on this meeting, punch up my “blog” at www.gaternews.com.
 
 ----  I recently attended a kick-off meeting for a new paved racetrack that is opening up in 2009 in Tioga Center, N.Y., at the site of the Skyview Drags dragstrip.  “Shangri-La2 Speedway”  will be a ½ mile concrete surface, and will open on Saturday, May 23rd.  They will run Saturday nights, into mid-September.  Testing will begin in mid-May, and Sunday will always be a rain date. A lot of people acted surprised to hear that, since the track is not completed yet, but owner George Swansborough insists that they will be done by that time.  “Get your cars ready - because we’ll be ready”, Swansborough announced.  He wasn’t quite so confident that the lights and bathrooms and everything else will be completed, but he’ll run during the day if the lights are not done, and he’s already purchased 50 portable toilets as a backup plan.
 
 ----  A lot of the meeting was about rules, and proposed rules.  The street stock drivers and owners had the most questions, as the other divisions seemed for the most part satisfied with what has been laid out.  Track management and head tech inspector Matt Jilson seem to have a pretty good handle on what their ideas are, and what they think will work the best.  It was made very clear that tech will be very strict.  “It will be very costly for someone to cheat at my track!”, proclaimed Swansborough. Hoosier will be the track tire.
 
 ----  The most impressive part of the presentation was the total announced purse of $33,000 weekly.  The four weekly divisions consist of modifieds, late models,  sport mods, and street stocks.  Mods and late models will vie for $1,500 to win, sport mods will pay $1,200, and street stocks will race for a whopping $1,000 to win.  Quite an ambitious purse commitment for a new speedway. 
 
 ----  ALL divisions will be allowed a spotter and a two way radio, which will add quite an expense.  Even the budget street stock division will have a spotter.  Most tracks and divisions disallow radios except for only the most expensive series’.  Radios aren’t cheap, and many feel that radios hurt racing due to blocking and “mirror driving”.  I hope that this rule doesn’t hurt the racing at Shangri-La2 Speedway.
 
 ----  Can Swansborough actually make it work?  That’s a huge nut to crack, especially when you’re only charging $15 for a pit pass, and $10 for the grandstands.  (Clarification: each car must pay a $50 entry fee.  This entry entitles the team to purchase FOUR pit passes for $15 each.  All other pit passes will cost “$25 or $30”. A track license of $75 or $95 will also be required, depending upon whether you purchase it before or after the first of the year.)  Do some quick math - he needs to pack the place to make ends meet.  How will he pay that?  Sponsorship dollars.  While most tracks need the sponsorship proceeds to help pay the bills and overhead, it would appear that most of the funds raised through sales and promotions to businesses will be needed to cover the purse.  Can it work?  Swansborough certainly sounds committed, but you could sense a little concern peeking through his swagger.  I wish him the best!
 
 ----  Barry Kingsley and I attended the meeting to learn more about the speedway, and float the idea of a possible small block super race there at some time during the season.  We spoke with both Swansborough and track manager Amy Stilson about the possibility.  There may be opportunity, but there are a lot of things for the management team to pull together and sort out at this point.  Stay tuned.  I know this - other than Classic, we never even get to run for a purse as big as their promised street stock purse of $5,380.  I bet we’d put on a great show for less than that.  And with the price of gas going down, maybe we could get a nice field of small block supers to make the two hour tow on an off Oswego night.  It’s an easy tow - route 81 to route 17.  I know I’d love to run there at least once.  I can feel the “buzz” from here!
 
 ----  In closing, I would like to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  2008 has been a great year for me and my family, and I’ve really enjoyed all of the time that I spent this year with all of you - my racing friends!  Please enjoy these holidays, and focus on the good things.  Take care of those around you, and keep your perspective about what matters the most - your family, friends and your health.  See you soon!
 

 

Gater News - October 23, 2008

The 2008 Oswego Speedway Hall of Fame and Awards Banquet is happening this Saturday night, at the Turning Stone Casino in Vernon, N.Y., and I wonder about a lot of things.  Welcome to my annual, totally farcical, completely unfunny, pre-banquet B.S. column. 

 
 ----  Is this the year that the government steps in to run the Banquet?  Although moderators Joe Marotta and Roy Sova do a great job of steering the ship, I think that Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin would do a great job.  She knows a lot about “Joe Sixpack”, so she should be very good at speaking to “Joe Thirty Pack”.
 
 ----  Will track champions Otto Sitterly and Kevin Knopp make a lot of cash charging for autographs this year?  Both drivers are offering autographed pictures of themselves - in slinky swimwear - with the proceeds from the sale going to their favorite charities.  Knopp’s charity of choice is “The  KK Foundation for Wayward Women and Injured Overweight Pole Dancers”.   Sitterly’s proceeds will go to the “Bo-Sid Makeover Foundation”.  This fund supports broken-down racecar drivers who require implants (that’s hair implants) and Botox injections to keep their boyish good looks.  It is rumored that later in the evening, both drivers will be appearing on the dance floor and posing for pictures in their same swimwear, for a fee, of course.  The champions have already chosen a special Goo-Goo Dolls song for their special dance.  Please give ‘til it hurts!
 
 ----  Although this is his second championship, Otto’s car owner John Nicotra will accept his first championship as a car owner, in his second season as an owner.  Nicotra also fields a supermodified for Davey Hamilton on occasion.  It is rumored that Nicotra will be one of the judges of Ron Gray’s Millenium Music Driver Dance Contest after the awards ceremony, with the winner receiving a one time ride in the #7 Nicotra supermodified.  I’m bringing my dancing shoes! 
 
 ----  Dave Gruel, who will drive the Tim Barbeau owned small block super in 2009, has been working on some special moves for that dance contest.  I’m told that he and his girlfriend Shanna have been attending dancing lessons, and that Shanna was once a participant on “Dancing With the SuperStars”.  What the two lovebirds don’t know, though, is that this isn’t hip-hop dancing.  All the time they have spent working on the “booty-back-and-forth” dance will be wasted, as this is clearly a “Redneck Dance” contest.  Favorites to win are supermodified drivers Tim Snyder and Craig Rayvals, and FFB Chassis builder Dan Dennie.  Good thing it’s not belly dancing.
 
 ----   I’m being told that Head Tech Mike Bozzuto has prepared a special presentation to the “most legal car at the speedway” in the small block supermodified division.  This special award recipient earned his honors by cheating the least amount of anyone.  “Hey - if he’s that slow, he must be legal”, stated an un-named source when announcing the winner of the award to members of the media in a double-secret pre-banquet ceremony.  As I am not considered a legitimate member of the working media, I wasn’t allowed access to this meeting.  But after 20 plus years as an illegitimate member of the press, I do have spies.  I have secured the answer to the winner of this year’s “most legal car at the speedway” award, for the small block supermodified division.  The envelope please?  Jack Patrick is the winner of this prestigious award.  Congrats, Jack!  We all owe Jack a congratulatory drink at the banquet.
 
 ----  I’m excited about a new edition to the banquet this year.  There will be a celebrity dunking booth, where fans will have the opportunity to make their least favorite driver, owner, announcer, car builder or speedway promoter fall into a tank of bacteria-filled water, possibly bruising their elbow or hitting their head on the way down.  Appearing in the tank will be such stars as Chip “the water will be over my head” Wood, Shawn “wait till you see me in a wet t-shirt” Walker,  Pat “I don’t need you…  to dunk me” Furlong, and  Keith “I wreck every other week” Gilliam.  It should be fun.  But don’t get all excited,  Chalupa.  I said DUNKing booth, not DRUNKing booth.
 
 ----  I’ve seen Chris Lupa’s new outfit for the banquet.  He’s spent a lot of time looking for just the right attire.  (As if anyone would ever want to take his picture.)  He tried real hard to duplicate Russ Brown’s purple leisure suit from a few years back, but couldn’t find one.  But Chalupa modeled his attire recently at a fashion show, making his “special lady” Jamie very proud.  From the pictures I’ve seen, he looks great in pink and orange, in my opinion.  Kind of like the character “McLovin”, from the movie SuperBad. 
 
 ----  Ed Horne will not be in attendance, as the car owner of the 4th in owner points, small block super #10, will be out of town for the event.  But Eddie has secured me as the person responsible for collecting his pay in his absence.  So…  good news, you guys.  Eddie’s buying the next round!
 
 ----  2008 Oswego Speedway Hall of Fame inductee Mike Bond has some special thank-yous in store for his speech.  In addition to the obvious family, sponsor, crew, and car owner acknowledgements, I’m hearing that Mike will offer thanks to some others.  For example, his barber, for the “special haircut” that has become his trademark. (A.K.A., his Mom, and the salad bowl.)  Gianni Versace for the special HoF outfit that was designed for the special occasion.  Henry Ford, for inventing the automobile.  A. Cornelius Light, inventor of the beverage known as “Bud Light”.  And of course, his parents, for making him.  Should be a great speech!
 
 ----  There are some wagers going around about who will have the longest Hall of Fame acceptance speech among the six inductees.  Doug Heveron, Jerry Rich, Mike Bond, Carol Haynes, Bob Goutermout, and Jim Ferlito are this year’s inductees.  Jerry Rich has already warned me that his speech will discuss his childhood, when he rode to school on a horse and buggy, in a one room schoolhouse. 
 
 ----  So is it still true, as was stated earlier in the season by a driver interviewed for www.sbsracingnews.com, that it is a negative thing to spend 15 years racing at Oswego Speedway, instead of moving on to other presumably bigger forms of auto racing?  I wonder if entering the Oswego  Hall of Fame makes it worth it.  The wisecrack was said about Hall of Famer Mike Bond.  Many of us “Old Timers” were offended by those comments, which is why we plan on “punking”  Kreig Heroth’s motel room with silly string, and a water bucket leaned against his door.  Maybe we’ll even do an “upper decker”, if we can get in his room.  Of course those comments are old news, and were made in the heat of battle, but bringing it back up now just gives us license to bust his chops the whole night.  Better keep an eye on your shoes, Kreig!  Let the games begin…
 
 ----  A special retirement gold watch will be presented to Larry Muroski, who has announced that he will be leaving the small block supermodified division.  The watch was purchased by his appreciative ex-competitors, as a token of their gratitude for “cutting them some slack by bailing out”, as the engraving on the watch states.
 
 ----  Many people are excited about the Halloween costume contest that will be taking place at the banquet again this year.  I’ve heard of a few of the costumes that  people will be wearing.  For example, Lou LeVea, Jr. and Brian Sobus will be dressed as Lloyd Christmas and Harry Dunne from the movie “Dumb and Dumber”.  Reality TV character costumes are also very popular this year.  Barry Kingsley and wife Debi will go as show contestants “Beauty and the Geek”.  Lou LeVea Sr. will be disguised as “Average Joe”, and Pat Lavery will be the shirtless guy in the trailer park from the show “Cops”.  My wife April and I will be “Dog” and “Beth” from the show “Dog the Bounty Hunter”.  I haven’t heard yet who will be attending as characters from the shows “Intervention”, and “Biggest Loser”.
 
 ----  Okay - enough of the ball busting.  In all seriousness, I’m very much looking forward to this weekend’s banquet.  The Oswego Speedway banquet staff always do a great job of putting this party together, from the dinner, to the awards, the HoF ceremony, to the music (now that they’ve hired Millenium Music instead of bands), right down to the hospitality room afterwards.  I remember Pat Furlong last year going to bat for us with Turning Stone security, trying to get the hours extended for that room.  A good time will be had by all.  We’ll be there early, and look forward to seeing all of our racing friends, some for the last time this year.  See you there!
 

Gater News - October 15, 2008

Super Dirt Week is in the books, along with all of the satellite races that were held at area speedways.  Race fans had a rain-free, and somewhat warm (for October) weekend, which made it very enjoyable for all teams, fans, and mostly, speedway owners.  Weather can make or break the track promoter, who has the most on the line of anyone.  So as tough as it has been to own a racetrack in the last few years, I’m happy to see some of biggest the risk-takers make some money last weekend. A good SDW can put a lot of people in a solid position for the 2009 season.
 
 ----  Although I ended up attending four different races during the weekend, I only attended one as a reporter.  (Which means that the others were last minute ideas, and I didn’t receive any free admissions - a.k.a. credentials, since it is necessary as a media member to request credentials in advance.)  But I thoroughly enjoyed that Thursday night small block race at Brewerton Speedway. 
 
 ----  Brett Hearn was clearly the class of field on this night.  But that doesn’t mean that he won the race.  In heat #2, Hearn stated his position right away by making an incredible last lap, last turn pass of Todd Burley to take the checkers.  It was an awesome power move on the outside, just as the checkers fell.  He then charged from his 9th place starting position into the lead on lap 17, and proceeded to lead the next 42 laps.  Gary Tomkins kept him in sight, but it’s hard to say if he could have passed him back.
 
 ----  But lap 60 changed everything.  That’s when Hearn stalled out with a flat right front tire, ending his shot at the victory.  I expected Hearn to make a solid charge back through the field at least into the top ten, but that was not meant to be.  But he still was able to play a part in the outcome of the race, controlling who the winner was, even though he wasn’t around for it.  Read on.
 
 ----  Vic Coffey was the most exciting car to watch.  Involved in an early tangle, Coffey was forced to pass the entire field of quality cars to have a shot at the victory.  He passed cars high and low to saw through the field, and finally wrestled the lead from Gary Tomkins on lap 70.  It appeared as though Coffey would then cruise to the well deserved victory from there.  He worked for it and earned it.  But it was still not quite in the bag, as a lap 71 (of 75 scheduled) caution extended the pressure for Coffey.  Although he held off Tomkins on this restart, he still wasn’t quite done.  That’s when Hearn stepped back into the picture, shutting down his machine on the speedway surface, bringing out the caution, causing a second overtime restart.
 
 ----  That’s when Tomkins seized the day, taking advantage of a slight cushion jump by Coffey to slide underneath and snatch the gold from Coffey.  Coffey wasn’t happy, as you may expect, as he felt that Hearn should have been able to make it off the speedway when his car faltered.  That last momentum break was just enough to put Tomkins back at an advantage, and that was it. 
 
 ----  It’s a good thing that Chad Brachmann had earned a guaranteed spot previous to the qualifiers.  Brachmann was in two nasty wrecks, one in his heat race, and one in the consolation.  But fortunately, Brachmann never gave up, and was rewarded with an 11th place finish in the final rundown, after starting 28th.  Tough night for Brachmann, but he had to feel satisfied in the end, under the circumstances.
 
 ----  I enjoyed watching the #42 of Kevin Bates.  I always like watching the guys who run the hardest, and throw their cars around the most.  Bates sure cranks it around pretty hard, so I always look forward to seeing him at Brewerton.  After a bad finish in his heat race, Bates had to fight to make it through the consi.  But he did work his way into the show, starting 21st, and finished in 12th at the checkers.
 
 ----  Tim McCreadie, who has been winning some huge money races on the Late Model circuit (three big wins in the last few weeks put $85,000 in the bank for him and his team)  showed up at Brewerton in the Pierre Dagenais car for the small block event.  McCreadie looked solid finishing in 2nd place in heat #5, but his day ended in an early crash that also ended the day for Alan Johnson.  But it wasn’t a total wasted trip home for the gypsy superstar, who I heard recently on the “Bubba the Love Sponge” radio show on Sirius Satellite Radio.  I eavesdropped on quite a hockey discussion between T-Mac and Bill Gill during the driver’s meeting.  I bet McCreadie enjoyed catching up with his old buddies from the area when he came back to run Dagenais’ car.
 
 ----  Gill was even less lucky than McCreadie, going home as one of 26 unqualified cars for the evening.  I always root for Bill Gill when I see him.  He’s another one of those cool guys to talk to. 
 
 ----  Tim Fuller is another Late Model racer who spent the weekend driving modifieds.  But his Thursday night small block race also didn’t even go as well as McCreadie’s.  Fuller was involved in a crash on the opening lap of his heat race, which sent him pitside.  A terrible starting spot for his consi made it impossible for Fuller to get into the top two positions, and was added to the huge list of DNQ drivers.  Along with another experienced driver by the name of Danny Johnson.  And Ted Lamb, who took a horrible shot into the fence in heat #3, in Mike Prentice’s car.  Lamb never made it back out for the consi.
 
 ----  Despite my past experiences of not really caring for Super Dirt Week, I found myself strangely drawn to the fairgrounds this last week.  I didn’t go to the feature events on Saturday and Sunday,  but I did pop in for some of the events on Thursday and Friday.  Still maybe not my favorite type of racing (I think I still prefer tracks where you can easily watch the cars all the way around the track), I am starting in my old age to appreciate the “happening” of the whole deal.  A little.  No, I’m not planning an all-out assault on SDW in 2009, but maybe a trip through the pits to watch the teams would be interesting for me.
 
 ----  And I’m also starting to develop a little taste for sprint cars, which I’ve always hated.  An early-season trip to Rolling Wheels for the World of Outlaws should have killed it for me (terrible show), but I still gave sprinters a few more chances in support of my buddy Andy Noto, who now races with the ESS and Patriots on an irregular basis. 
 
 ----  That being said, I have to admit that the Patriot sprint show at Weedsport Speedway last Friday night was awesome.  Yes, a bunch of tangles and cautions almost killed it for me, but watching these guys pass and fly on a short track made it all worthwhile.  Thanks to Andy’s invites, I’ll see more sprint races in the future.  But it’ll only be on a short track.
 
 ----  But maybe I shouldn’t go to support Andy Noto.  I seem to bring him bad karma when I’m there.  He DNQ’d last week, after a fuel line leak ended his shot in the consi.  So, according to my calculations, I think that’s three times I’ve gone to watch Andy flip his sprint car, and he’s let me down every time.  Some friend.  Hope I’m there for the first time it happens.  (Note: don’t consider me a sadist.  Sprint car drivers always flip.  It barely fazes them.  I was there when Andy flipped his supermodified, and he only soiled himself a little.)
 
 ----  Next week I’ll have a preview of the Oswego Speedway banquet, and the havoc I’m planning to cause.  We’ve got some interesting people being inducted into the Hall of Fame this year.  I have heard that Mike Bond has purchased a purple leisure suit for the occasion.  And I’m also hoping to see Jerry Rich wear his “dilligaf” hat during his speech, the same hat that he was wearing last weekend at Syracuse selling programs.  (If you don’t know what “dilligaf” stands for, shoot me an e-mail and I’ll enlighten you.)  His speech should be interesting!
 
 ----  If you like what you’ve read here, and want more, I can lead you to more.  I also have fun writing a “blog”,  which can be seen on the Gater News website at www.gaternews.com.  I hope you’ll go there and check it out, and please leave a comment. 
 

 

Gater News - October 8, 2008

I love the Schneider Brothers (formerly known as the Victoria) 200, the 23rd annual $25,000 to win modified race, which is held yearly at Fulton Speedway.  This year’s edition was one of the better ones in recent memory.
 
 ----  Yes, Danny Johnson won the race.  But it wasn’t a typical win for Danny, as he didn’t really become a factor until the end.  His fastest lap of the day didn’t even come until lap 168, which, coincidentally, is the same lap that he took the lead.  It was a great win for Johnson, a win that I sure didn’t see coming.
 
 ----  I really thought that this was the year that Brett Hearn would finally get his elusive first win.  Hearn led many laps, and appeared to be the man in charge.  But several battles throughout the day made it tough to assign a favorite.
 
 ----  But it wasn’t Danny Johnson who first wrestled the lead from Hearn.  Dave Camara was also at or near the front the whole day, and looked for awhile as though he may have been in position to steal his first Schneider Brothers 200 win.  Camara led a lot of laps earlier in the race before Hearn and then Johnson took charge, and had a legitimate shot at the win all day.  He showed a lot of muscle, but at the end of the day he fell short.  Camara ended up 4th in the final rundown, as Pat Ward passed him in the late going for the final podium shot.
 
 ----  Ryan Phelps also ran a great race to land his first top five finish in the historical season-ending Fulton Speedway event.  Ryan’s father Roger Phelps currently sits in the top ten in all-time points for the annual affair, so the kid’s got some catching up to do before he takes over the family bragging rights.  I wonder if he ever got that chicken wing pizza that he was asking for - with a megaphone - later that evening at the campfire.  I agree with his statement that he deserved the delectable delicacy after his top five finish.  A young man after my own heart.
 
 ----  Prior to last weekend, I hadn’t heard much about Paul Kinney.  But last week’s performance at Fulton got my attention.  First, he won one of two coveted guaranteed starting spots by turning in the second fastest time in hot laps on Friday.  Then he battled with Dave Camara early in the race, leading several laps.  Kinney was 8th in the final rundown.
 
 ----  I really thought Billy Pauch would be a contender.  Pauch is the only guy to win six of these races, although this year was his first appearance in a few years.  But he found out that what used to work - running the extreme outside cushion - wasn’t the answer in 2008.  Yes, 11th place is a great finish for most, but this is Billy Pauch.  I give him a lot of points for sticking with it, and he tried to develop a cushion lap after lap, but it never really panned out for him.
 
 ----  “I had a 7th place car”, is what Roy Bresnahan calculated after the event.  I thought that he should be happy with a 12th place finish, but he was not.  The “Wild Man”, as he is known, wanted better, and felt that if things went a little differently that he would have been well into the top ten.  The best racers are never satisfied unless they win.
 
 ----  Billy Decker was all set to give the boys a run for their money as the race wore on.  Decker had methodically worked his way into the top five in the lap 150’s, advancing as far as third on lap 156.  But his day ended on lap 161 with a trip to the pits.
 
 ----  Tim Fuller has been running in the Late Model division for a few years now, and cherry picks the modified shows when time permits around the late model schedule.  Saturday looked for awhile as though this may be a major $25K cherry pick, as he was shot out of a cannon.  Fuller was hooked up, and advancing to the front.  Then, just like that, his run was over with some mechanical issues that ended his day.
 
 ----  Of course there’s gambling that goes on in the grandstands.  Big money gambling.  For $5.00 each, a bunch of us race fans were able to choose a driver (at random), with the winner and another finisher paid back at the end of the race.  Since I was feeling lucky,  I got in three times, and assembled my team.  Bob Henry, Jr.(30th), Chris Hile (32nd), and finally Dale Planck (38th) were my three drivers.  If you’re reading this Bob, Chris, and Dale, you each owe me a “fin” for making me the laughing stock of the whole grandstands.  Or at least the part I was sitting in.
 
 ---- The luck of the draw is everything at this race.  Good cars can have some pretty bad results if they don’t get the right starting position for their qualifying race.  For example, despite all of my best efforts, (I wore my Chad Phelps Racing shirt under six other layers of shirts and jackets) my man Chad Phelps wasn’t able to qualify, after starting poorly in both his heat and his consolation race.  Chad was quite disappointed  that he didn’t make the show.  He even sacrificed his Friday night festivities so he would be at his best on Saturday, leaving Luther’s camp well before 4:00AM to get some shut-eye.
 
 ----  The support divisions, as they are sometimes condescendingly called, are also a great part of the Schneider Brothers Weekend.  Huge fields of racecars are on the premises for the weekend’s events, and they always put on a great show.  All of the qualifiers, as well as most of the pro stock feature, were run on Friday night before the rain settled in.  The remaining features were added to Saturday’s events, which made for a fantastic day of racing.
 
 ----  My favorite race of the “other divisions” was the IMCA modified race.  I wasn’t always a fan of this division, which replaced pure stocks at Brewerton Speedway years ago (which explains why I copped an attitude for them for so long.)  But last week’s race was an excellent show.  I was really glad they were added to the field, after Thursday night’s IMCA series race was rained out in Fulton.
 
 ----  Rich Keller raced his way to the lead in the IMCA race, riding the cushion in the high groove.  He had ‘em covered, until he jumped that cushion, allowing a bottom-running J.J Courcy to get by.  After the next restart though, Keller jumped right back into his groove, and wrestled the lead back from Courcy.  It was a great side by side race, and Keller likely would have held on for the win if he had stuck to his guns.  But he didn’t.  Seeing Courcy’s car underneath every lap caused Keller to change his line, moving to the center of the track where there wasn’t much bite left, allowing Courcy to gain the advantage, and ultimately the win.  It was a very nice piece of driving by Courcy, and I’m proud to let him use my first name (J.J.- no relation).  Keller’s melt-down led to an accident on the last lap, landing him in 11th place in the final results.
 
 ----  Gary Roberts, Bob Banks, Aaron Jacobs, and Les Hubbard scratched to the rest of the top five positions in the final rundown.  Kevan Cook finished 10th, Rob Keller had a 16th place DNF, while Dale Caswell also fell out early for an 18th place DNF.  Hottest car on the track was Brandon Carvey, whose race ended when his #5 caught on fire in front of the grandstands as he started to walk to the pits.  (Get it?  Fire?  Hot car?  That’s my little joke.)
 
 ----  So why don’t all IMCA mods pick their left front tires off the ground about three feet?  It’s crazy to watch, but sometimes it looks like they’re going to flip right over because they’re leaned over so hard onto the right rear corner.  I think it looks pretty cool, and usually the fastest cars (at least the ones that I watched this year at Brewerton) are set up that way.  I bet it’s rough on equipment though. Courcy, Caswell, Cook, and Rob Keller all run like that at Brewerton - and win most of the races.
 
 ----  The sportsman division sure does mix it up.  I can’t believe how durable those cars are, because they are constantly smashing into each other, and keep going.  They put on a great show though, and it’s fun to watch.  I’d probably feel differently if I had any money invested.
 
 ----  Jeremy Wilder was the winner, followed by Dave Marcuccili, Jeremy Pitcher, Alan Fink, and Mark D’ilario. 
 
 ----  Pete Stefanski has now won four in a row in the pro stock division, this time coming from way in the rear in the rain-shortened race.  Stefanski started 17th after being penalized for an incident that took place in his heat, which he had won prior to the penalty.  This is quite a record for Stefanski, who proved once and for all that he has this race figured out better than anyone.  His 2001 victory puts him at FIVE total wins in this event.
 
 ----  Dion Oakes, Don Carlson, Jocelyn Roy, and Allen Peters rounded out the top five.  Bret Belden finished in 10th place.
 
 ----  The street stock division was quite the opposite of what I expected.  For example, Dave Mannise, who has won this race at least twice, struggled throughout before leaving the track with a flat tire.  Mannise started almost last, and was never a factor in the race before calling it a day.  Rusty Marsden is one of the most dominant drivers in this division, but also started - and stayed - in the rear of the field before pulling off of the track surface.  Bubba Burnell hasn’t finished worst than second in the last three of these annual events, but also ran near the rear, for a 17th place finish in the final rundown.  I was disappointed to not see any of these guys slice through the field.  I guess it just wasn’t their year.
 
 ----  Shawn Frost drove a great race to score the street stock victory.  Nathan Peckham, Kevin Smith, Andy Fisk, and Adam Depuy rounded out the top five.  Larry Bezner was 8th.
 
 ----  Let me just say that I had nothing to do with the mattress surfing episode in the campgrounds at Fulton Speedway on Friday night.  I wasn’t the one who saw that on “Redneck Weddings”.  I don’t know whose truck was towing it. And I have no idea who the man was on the mattress, who was wearing a helmet and Hans device.  It was a comical sight, for sure. We…I mean they… were just having fun, and it was totally entertaining from the back of the truck.  Or so I’m told.  The perpetrators were let off with a warning after a brief conversation, which involved a lot of laughing from both sides, where it was requested that the offending mattress be put away.  If  I find out any information, I’ll be sure to report it to the authorities.  These television shows sneak into the fabric of peoples daily lives, and are doing their best to “dumb down” society.  (Yes, I love the show “Redneck Weddings” on CMT.)
 
 ----  Speaking of dumbing down society, you internet people should check out my blog, at www.gaternews.com.  It’s a lot of fun, and sometimes interesting.  And while you’re killing time online, and want to read more of my monkey business, you could go to www.sbsracingnews.com, and read my “SuperStar of the Week” column.  Look around a little bit when you get there - I did one of those weekly during the season.  Had some fun with it, and only angered a few people with my sarcasm.  This week’s episode features some of my best jabs ever!
 
 ----  You guys have a good time at Super Dirt Week this weekend.  I won’t be there, but I bet a lot of you are reading this from there right now.  I’ve never been that into SDW, so I’ll probably be getting the house ready for snow while you’re reading this.  And no mattress surfing!

 

Gater News - October 1, 2008

This week is the week that many dirt track fans have been waiting for.  It’s usually my favorite dirt race of the year, and often one of the best dirt races of the year.  It’s the 23rd annual Schneider Brothers 200 at Fulton Speedway this Thursday - Saturday. 
 
 ----  Yes, I’m having a tough time calling this race anything other than the Victoria 200, as it has always been called, but some type of politics, which saw the name “Victoria 200” sold to Utica Rome Speedway, forced that change.  I don’t know what the connection or relationship was between Utica-Rome’s owners, and the late Victoria Benway (who the Victoria was named in honor of) was, but I think it is real nice of them to honor Mrs. Benway’s memory by using that name at their speedway.  It’s too bad that the name can’t be used at Fulton Speedway, which Mrs. Benway and her husband Bub built and ran for decades, but these things happen.  But to me - it’ll always be the “Victoria 200”, no matter what the lawyers say.  No disrespect meant for the Schneider Brothers, the sponsors of the season ending event at the speedway.  Fulton Speedway was Victoria and Bub Benway’s home, and they should always be honored there. 
 
 ----  But no matter what it’s called, this race is usually my favorite dirt race of the year, for a long time now.  I’ve seen a lot of drama and crazy things happen in this race over the years, and I always look forward to what will happen this year.  In the past, nearly 100 cars have entered this race to vie for the 40 or so starting positions.  For example, in 2007, 80 cars were entered for the race.  In 2006, 98 cars entered.  That’s what you get when you put up a $60,000 plus purse to be divvied up.  The cars and stars will be here.  A check for twenty - Five grand greets the winner.
 
 ----  Only TEN drivers in the world have ever won this race.  Those drivers are: Billy Pauch (6 times), Alan Johnson (4), Tim Fuller (3), Tom Kinsella (2), Danny Johnson (2), and Frank Cozze, Paul Jensen, Dale Planck, Kenny Brightbill, and Billy Decker. 
 
 ----  One key factor that makes this race so entertaining is the fact that there are no time trials.  Nope, not at the 200.  This is a real race, with real qualifying.  Want to make the show?  You better cinch up your seat belts, and finish in position one or two in the heat.  There will be 9-10 cars in that heat, by the way.  And the luck of the draw will predict where you start that heat, because there’s a sealed envelope waiting for you in front of the grandstand, which sets that lineup.  And you won’t have the benefit of your spotter telling you when or where to block if you do get up there, because two-way radios are not allowed. 
 
 ----  There will be some guaranteed starters in the field, and you’ll get another shot in one of the 4-6 consolation races.  But you had better hit the right setup, because an awesome field of great drivers will be going home without even qualifying for the big show.  Every year there are at least 10-15 excellent teams, along with a flock of others, that are left on the outside looking in, heading home with a DNQ attached to their resume.
 
 ----  Oh, and one other thing.  It used to be that if you were one of the big buck teams, you could line up a couple of different cars, run them in different heats, and have a few chances to qualify.  A nice luxury for a well financed team.  Not going to happen this year.  “Only one Schneider Brothers 200 entry per driver” is rule number ten on the speedway’s website.  You get one chance - just like the po’ folk.  You had better make it count.
 
 ----  Okay - there’s one other way to get into the show.  And this is the craziest thing I’ve ever heard of.  Recently announced, you can earn a guaranteed starting spot by practicing.  I’m not making this up.  Read this press release, from www.fultonspeedway.com: “On Thursday and Friday nights (October 2-3) of the Schneider Brothers 200 weekend there will two sessions a night of Modified Hot-Laps, one during the intermission and one at the end of the night. The fastest overall Modified timer each night will receive $300 and a guaranteed starting spot for the 23rd Annual Schneider Brothers 200.”  That’s right - show up, run hot-laps, and maybe you’ll make the show that way.  Relax on Saturday.  I’m not sure what the speedway management’s motivation is for putting such a HUGE emphasis on hot-laps, but that should work.  You’ll see some awesome hot-laps, for sure.  Oh - and maybe the speedway will sell a couple more pit passes as a result.
 
 ----  Who will win?  I’ve got it down to a few guys:
 
 ----  Billy Decker has won almost every other modified race that he’s run this year.  He won the Vic last year (when it was still called that.).   He has to be a favorite.
 
 ----  Brett Hearn is one of the all time greatest drivers to ever run a modified.  He’s won Syracuse, and probably every other big race, numerous times.  But he’s never won this race.
 
 ----  Jimmy Phelps lives just down the street, and would love to take the honors.  He’s had his share of wins this year, so nobody would be surprised to see him in victory lane.
 
 ----  Perhaps you’ve heard of a gentleman by the name of Billy Pauch?  He’s got six of these trophies, including the first five in a row.  Nobody could count him out.
 
 ----  Pat Ward has come close, but has never put it together yet for all of the marbles.  He wins a lot of races for owner John Wight, and his consistent driving style is perfect for the 200 lap, break at half event.
 
 ----  Then there’s a couple of guys named Johnson.  (No, not Jimmie Johnson.)  Alan and Danny Johnson have been racing in this division almost since cars were invented.  Both have won this race more than once.
 
 ----  Local hero Chad Phelps, also known as “The Other Phelps”, or “That Phelps Kid”, would be my sentimental favorite to win the race.  Chad drives the “X” car, which I believe ties him to the roman numeral “ten”.  When I inquired as to what the significance of the “ten” was for Chad, all I got was a chuckle.  Which may explain why there are always good looking women around Chad….
 
 ----  Tommy Sears won the modified championship this year at Fulton.  I would love to see my old teammate grab the 200 and sweep the season.  That would be awesome - and wouldn’t surprise me one bit.  Tommy’s always been one of the best drivers around.
 
 ----  But the winner?  I’m picking Dale Planck.  Planck owned this track back in the pre-DIRT sanctioned days, winning NASCAR national titles.  He’s a previous winner, and nobody has more experience at this speedway than Planck.  (Well, maybe Tommy Sears has more laps here than anyone.  But Planck still has run more in a modified, because a lot of Tommy’s laps were in the street stock division.)  He’s had a solid season, won at Fulton this year, and has a quality ride.  Make that check out to “The Natural, Dale Planck”.
 
 ----  Sportsman winner will be Sammy Reakes IV.  In the pro stock division, Pete Stefanski has won the last three in a row, so it’s tough to bet against him.  And I’ve got to take veteran Dave Mannise, who has probably been in every street stock (formerly called pure stock) Schneider Brothers 200 race, to win the show.
 
 ----  There was a whole bunch of winged supermodified racing action last week.  An ISMA double-header at Delaware Speedway and Berlin Raceway found Dave McKnight and Chris Perley in victory lane on Friday and Saturday.  Also on Saturday, an MSA event rescheduled by rain took place at Sandusky Speedway, which was won by Tim Jedrzejek.  It was too bad that the super field had to be split on Saturday, but it says a lot about the strength of the division when you realize that 40 super teams (25 at Sandusky, and 15 at Berlin) were in competition on Saturday, between the two different locations.  Awesome support for the division.
 
 ----  But did they HAVE to run against each other?  Since the MSA Sandusky race was the one moved to the date against the previously scheduled ISMA Berlin race, couldn’t they have chosen another date after the other date rained out?  Possibly - but I’m sure that a lot of extenuating circumstances played into the decision.  But what if the MSA race was run on Sunday, for example?  Three straight days of winged super races would have been quite a weekend for the fans and teams of winged supermodified s. Wow! The ‘Dusky show would have been kind of on the way home for the racers that competed in Berlin, which is in Michigan.  Too bad that didn’t work out - but I can also understand a track not wanting to take a chance on a Sunday show for traveling cars.
 
 ----  Bobby Bond landed his first podium finish with a winged supermodified, at Berlin Raceway.  Bond switched to full-time winged racer for the 2008 season after a disagreement with speedway management caused him to lose interest in the speedway that he grew up at, which sits just about 7 miles from his home.  I caught up with Bob on his way home from Berlin on Sunday afternoon, to congratulate him on his third place finish, and ask some nosy questions, thanks to the wonders of cell phone technology.
 
 ----  But he’s enjoying traveling around with the ISMA series, and has no intentions of having Xtreme Chassis builder Paul Colloca retrofit his independent front suspension car to a solid axle car, which is what you need to race at Oswego.  Again, relentless soldier that I am, I tried to let him know how easy it would be to change his car over.  “I don’t know….  It’s not just the axle.  I’d still have to buy spindles, do something different with shocks, they’re talking about changing some stuff.  I don’t think I want to do that.”, said Bond. 
 
 ---- Plans for the remainder of the season call for a trip to Thompson for the final ISMA race, but probably not to the North Carolina race in November.  The rules for that shoot-out apparently favor the other super factions, and puts the ISMA teams at a disadvantage.  Tire softener, and 300 pounds less weight are a couple of examples of what ISMA cars are not allowed, but others are. 
 
 ----  Plans for next year call for more of the same.  “I’m pretty sure I’ll run ISMA next year”, said Bond.  Like this year, he may not attend all of the traveling races, but he’ll run for fun when he can get there.  He enjoys running ISMA, and chooses ISMA over MSA because “it’s a lot better purse”.
 
 ----  Changes over the winter?  “A few small changes.  I want to try a different wing, different design.  And I need a better motor.  I bought some heads, but I didn’t have the money to finish the motor this year.  I’m down on horsepower.”  Doug Holmes does Bob’s engines, and will be the one putting together the new one.
 
 ----  Bond bent a front pushrod (suspension part) in his heat at Delaware on Friday night, which caused the poor starting position in the feature, which left him with a 12th place finish.  He felt that he may have been a top five car with a better start, but passing was very difficult on the tight, rough track surface.  He was quite happy with his 3rd place finish at Berlin, but more for his crew, than for himself.  Ed Matteson and Larry VonHoltz made the haul for the weekend, and he’s glad to get them results.  “These guys work awful hard on this car, so it was good for them, too.”
 
 ----  So did you have anything for Perley on Saturday night?  “Probably not.  I closed in on Woody a little bit.  By the end of the race, everyone was getting loose.”, said Bond.  
 
 ----  If you like what you’ve read here, and want more, I can lead you to more.  I also have fun writing a “blog”,  which can be seen on the Gater News website at www.gaternews.com.  I hope you’ll go there and check it out, and please leave a comment. 
 

 

Gater News column - Sept 25, 2008

The 58th annual Race of Champions, at Oswego Speedway is officially in the record books. 
 
 ---- I’ve never really had much time around the pavement modified division, but I’m getting more and more familiar with the names from seeing the Race of Champions Tour at Oswego Speedway a few times a year.  There were definitely a ton of cars and stars in attendance, despite the fact that NASCAR had scheduled a Whelan Modified tour race right exactly against the Oswego RoC show.  Yes, there were plenty of big names at the Whelan race in Martinsville, but there was plenty of action and drama and names at Oswego.  39 cars started the event, but there were plenty others who did not make the show.  Great field!
 
 ----  Tony Hirschman was the winner at the end of the day, his third win in the event.  But it was not easy.  The 200 lap grind brings out all of the drama and strategy and luck and talent - and experience.  Tony Hirschman put the whole combination together for the historic win, a win that he will never forget.
 
 ----  It sure appeared as though Jan Leaty would be the driver to beat for quite awhile.  Leaty led several laps, and appeared to have things in order for the victory.  But in the blink of an eye, all of that can change.  As a wreck unfolded in front of him, Leaty just barely touched the right rear tire of the car that was in front of him, sending him into the outside wall.  Done for the day.
 
 ----  Erick Rudolph is always impressive when I see the mods race.  The young third generation driver drove another smart, consistent race to finish in second place after 200 laps.  We all know that it’s only a matter of time before Rudolph wins all of the big races in the division.
 
 ----  Tony Hanbury had a weekend that will bring back some memories.  Not only did he finish in third place in the modified race, he was also a winner in the previous night’s SST modified event. 
 
 ----  Rusty Smith, Earl Paules, and Daren Scherer filled out the top six positions.  The rest of the top ten consisted of Terry Cheetham, Tommy Farrell, Pete Brittain, and Lee Sherwood. 
 
 ----  Doug Reaume, who we were all cheering for because he used to compete in the small block supers, was 15th in the final rundown.  Nice to see one of “our guys” slugging it out.
 
 ----  J.R. Kent was another driver who had a solid shot, as he was moving through the field.  But Kent was involved in a hard impact with the outside fence that ended his evening.
 
 ----  The SST modified division was packed with cars on Friday night, as over 50 of them attempted to qualify for the 32 starting positions.  It was such a great field that a “b-main” was added for the cars that did not qualify, which was run on Saturday.
 
 ----  The race appeared to be a win for driver Pete Brittain, as he held a decent lead as the laps wound down.  But pretty soon his engine started to sound “different”, (as Barry put it), and he eventually left the track in a cloud of smoke.  Brittain was credited with 18th at night’s end.
 
 ----  At the end of the day, Rick Kluth was credited with the win.  But things are not always what they appear.  Kluth was later disqualified for being illegal in tech inspection, bumped back to 32nd - and last - in the final rundown.  Tony Hanbury was awarded the win, and was allowed the pageantry and prestige of getting his picture done in victory lane on Saturday.
 
 ----  Jeff Hammond, Tom McGrath, Kevin Timmerman, and Zane Zeiner rounded out the top five.
 
 ----  Another one of “our guys”, supermodified competitor and former small block super track champion Keith Gilliam made the show, but was a DNF 30th in the final rundown.  What originally felt like a motor problem turned out to be a hung up brake caliper for Gilliam, who was relieved.
 
 ----  In heat race action, Tommy Cloce looked like the man to beat in the Late Model division.  He looked like he was 50 MPH faster than all of the other cars, and we all predicted cakewalk for him come feature time.  But it must be that the other cars all caught up, or he made some incorrect adjustments.  Cloce was second in the feature.
 
 ----  Todd Hoddick was the “Cloce killer” in the Late Model feature, keeping the #49 out front as the laps wore down.  It was a fun race to watch, despite the multi-cautions.  David Regan, Lee Gill, and Josh John rounded out the top five.
 
 ----  I always love the street stocks at Oswego Speedway.  The RoC street stock event was an excellent battle, that was won by Mike Nichols.  But I really thought that Frank Reakes would get him.  Reakes looked faster, and took several shots high and low, but could never quite close the deal.  40 - yes, 40 street stocks started the street stock feature, which lasted 75 laps.
 
 ----  Multiple time champion Joe Miller, who was the guy to beat when the street stocks ran regularly at Oswego, was in competition.  Joe ran at Adirondack International Speedway during the 2008 season, but couldn’t resist a return to his stomping grounds for the Roc event.  Unfortunately for Miller, things didn’t go as planned, and he was the involved in one of the race’s crashes.
 
 ----  Jason Brigham won the mini stock event, and Tom Casabrande owned the factory / pure stock event.  Congratulations to all Race of Champions champions!
 
 ---- The Small Block Supermodified division ran under a NORA sanction at RoC.  NORA is an organization that has for many years organized events for a mini-series of races for the small block supers at other speedways, as well as Oswego Speedway.  In 2008, the weekend’s event at Oswego were the only NORA event of the season, for several reasons.  Times are tough right now for teams and speedways, so the NORA series  drivers ended up staying close to home. 
 
 ---- NORA prez Steve Reynolds is currently in the process of determining what direction to head for the 2009 season.  He will of course welcome suggestions from anyone with ideas for the future, and is planning a general membership meeting for that purpose in the next month or two.  Since I don’t plan on racing my own car at Oswego Speedway more than two or three times in 2009, I think a  4-5 race NORA series, all at different tracks, would be fun.  I’m aware that it’s not that easy to find speedways that are looking for new cars, and all of the logistics that go along with it.  That’s the challenge, for sure.  But as a guy who’s not running a full season, I think I would enjoy a short series, at a few new tracks.
 
 ---- Spencer?  Adirondack?  Wyoming County? Holland?  Chemung?  Lancaster?  What other tracks would be fun to try?  Or what other tracks would be willing to take us?  How many teams would make the commitment to travel?  (It would really require a firm commitment from the teams, as tracks won’t be happy about twelve car fields.) These are all very difficult questions, that our man in charge has to somehow find the answers to.  I’m just throwing some ideas out there, to get people thinking.  Hey small block super teams - what do you think would be fun?  Let me know, or let Steve Reynolds know.  And also - ATTENTION paved speedway owners - any interest in setting up a show with a good group of guys, with some really cool and fast racecars?  Get ahold of Steve Reynolds the following ways: steve@inkspotinfo.com, or (315) 532-2693. Steve is also campaigning for some help in running the NORA show, so if you’re interested in becoming a part of NORA, or helping with some projects, please help out, and contact him.  Let’s hit the road in ‘09!
 
 ---- The race was won by Dave Gruel , but not in his normal ride.  During a totally average season in the Tom Aaserud fronted Crow Motorsports ride, Gruel and his friend Tim Barbeau started to discuss the prospect of teaming up.  Barbeau had been running well at times, but had his struggles in 2008 as well.  Although he won a couple of features, there were some periods of terrible luck mixed in.  Since Aaserud was considering an escape or break from campaigning a car in 2009; and Barbeau was considering stepping out of the driver’s seat for 2009, the timing was perfect for Gruel to jump right in behind the wheel.  A tentative deal was made for Gruel to pilot the #50 car, and was etched in stone after he fell in love with the car during a Thursday night practice session.  “I’m ready to sign the contract!”, Gruel joked after cranking off some times dangerously close to the untouchable 18 second bracket.  Deal was done - Gruel would be the driver of the Barbeau Racing #50 for the Race of Champions NORA race, as well as the 2009 season.
 
 ----  And the rest is history!  Gruel led every lap, by a sizeable margin at times, for the runaway victory.  Congratulations to Dave, Tim, and the new #50 team.  I don’t know if they’ve chosen a name for their team yet, so I’ll make a couple of suggestions down the road.
 
 ----  The small block super race ran green to checkers, with zero accidents or caution laps.  Quite an achievement for the excellent drivers in our division.  Everyone was clean and green.  Nice job, guys!
 
 ----  Mike Bond, soon to be named to the Oswego Speedway Hall of Fame, finished in second, but was hoping for a caution at the end, as he felt that he may have had something for Gruel as the race wore on. 
 
 ----  Dave Cliff  also needed a caution, as he had to come from 8th position to get to the front.  He worked his way to 3rd at the finish, passing Kevin Knopp late in the race, who landed in 4th.  Brian Sobus rounded out the top five, after starting outside pole.
 
 ----  Apparently Rob Pullen can drive one-handed.  But he still uses his other hand though.  It appeared as though Pullen is of the opinion that Dave Cliff is indeed “number one”, as Pullen’s center finger indicated during the early stages of the race.  Cliff got into Pullen’s bumper coming off of turn two, putting Pullen sideways and prompting him to express his opinion.  As good as he is, imagine how good Rob could drive if he kept both hands on the wheel!
 
 ----  Josh LaRochelle drove the Eddie Horne owned Outdoor Power #13 once again, after bailing out of the seat two weeks before the end of the season.  “This is my last race”, indicated LaRochelle prior to the event.  Josh has been looking at boats and motorcycles, and has taken up basket weaving and pottery as his new hobbies.  I am told however, that the ballroom dancing thing didn’t really work out.  Prior to the race, I asked Josh’s dad Tim if they would consider a 2009 comeback if things went really well in the RoC race, but it sounded like that wasn’t in the cards even if that did happen.  An 11th place finish is probably not going to be the finish that pulls him back into the sport.  Maybe the weaving and pottery things will work out.
 
 ----  I will give Josh credit for the quote of the night.  Apparently there was quite a bit of contact from Josh’s front bumper during the heat race to Shawn Walker’s rear bumper.  An enraged Walker stormed to LaRochelle’s pit after the race to confront Josh about the contact.  Josh’s reply?  “My bad.”  Nothing more could be said to that, and Walker eventually returned to his pit.  I will certainly use that one.
 
 ----  In the feature, Walker lost several positions on the last lap of the race, when his transmission suddenly either blew, or jumped out of gear.  Big Daddy faded to 13th place, after he slammed it into second gear to finish out the lap. 
 
 ----  “Patty Cakes”, also known as Pat Mullen dusted off his fire suit after a long hiatus to drive the Guard Nearbin #78 for the evening.  Pat was credited with 15th place at the end of the day, one lap down to the leaders.
 
 ----  Rick Curtis drives the #66 car that was originally built by Doug Reaume, and most recently owned by Charlie Pike.  Curtis’ son was supposed to be driving the machine, but has been unable to coordinate his military career with racing in Oswego, N.Y..  It was nice to meet Curtis, who is hoping that his son can get things squared away for the 2009 season to be able to compete.  But I could tell that he’s not too disappointed to be driving the machine instead.  “If my son does get to race it next year, maybe we’ll have to find another car - for me”, Curtis confessed.
 
 ----  Terry Solazzo took a few laps in his #25 car that was driven by Rick Zeigler this year.  Solazzo owns that car, as well as the Mike Bond #26 machine.  Solazzo will not be competing in the small block super division next year, so it’s still up in the air as to who will be Solazzo’s other driver in ‘09.  Or if he will even field two cars.  “What are you offering to bring to the team?” was what Solazzo’s talent coordinator Dan Dennie replied to a semi-retired writer who was inquiring as to who the next driver would be.
 
 ----  A shout-out goes to the Race of Champions staff, as well as Lighthouse Lanes owner Bob Hoefer for providing the second largest purse that we’ll see all year, on RoC Weekend.  Hoefer added some cash to the purse as a gesture of support for the division.  Thanks again, to Andrew Harpell, and Bob Hoefer!
 
 ----  As for myself, I was content to finish off the season with three damage-free runs, and three top ten finishes.  My own car started in 5th, and finished 8th after the 35 laps of green flag racing.  Nothing exciting, but I wasn’t too far off.  I got passed by three pretty fast cars, and kept them honest.  I’ve really enjoyed this part-time racing deal, and have seen a little resurgence in my confidence level after at least running respectably with limited tires, and an engine that hasn’t been freshened for two seasons now.  My plan for now is another season just like this one - 3-4 races, and definitely Classic.  I still love the driving, but the 3-4 night a week of working on the car, along with the expense of fielding a car will still keep me away from competing full time in the future. 
 
 ----  The secret to my success last weekend?  For the first time ever I was able to coordinate an exclusive new “hot chick” crew that consisted of April Andrews and Amy Hall.  Yes, we did have “Bird” take over crew chief duties as Corey, Mark, and Scott were all among the missing, but his dual-crew chief duties for me and Barry Kingsley kept him quite busy doing the calculations for the feature.  (Barry was also crew challenged on this night.)  But if I hadn’t had my “hot chick” crew on the scene, we would have never had our tires ready and on the car in time for the feature.  It was truly a “Hot Pit”, to say the least! 

 

Gater News column - Sept 17, 2008

This weekend at Oswego Speedway is the historic, 58th annual Sunoco Race of Champions weekend.  58 years of tradition - right here in my own backyard.  Seven different divisions of racecars will jam the pit area, and entertain race fans from all around the Northeast.  Which RoC modified driver will score the $10,000 payday? 

 
 ----  Friday night’s schedule will feature mini stocks, SST modifieds, pure / factory stocks, and small block supermodified s.  Saturday’s schedule switches to a card of super stocks, late models, and the Race of Champions modifieds.  A practice session will be held on Thursday afternoon, and then another round of practice on Friday afternoon at 3:00.  Heat races for the Friday divisions begin at 6:00PM on Friday. 
 
 ----  I enjoy seeing all of the different divisions of racecars during the weekend, in addition to the modifieds.  But of course my favorite part of the weekend is the NORA small block supermodified event.  And for the first time in several years, I’ll be in competition with my own car for this event.  Usually, after a full season of racing action, I’m pretty burned out by this time of the year.  But since I’ve only raced twice this year, and ran fairly well both times, I’m pretty gung-ho about hitting the track one more time before the season ends.  So I’ll see you all at this weekend’s Race of Champions, on Friday and Saturday at Oswego Speedway.
 
 ----  A week after their astounding Classic victory, Xtreme Supermodifed Chassis builder Paul Colloca was hard at work in his shop on a Wednesday afternoon.  Colloca was performing some major modifications on the car that had just won the historic 200 lap International Classic, in its first day out of the shop.  Wouldn’t you think that he would be happy with the design of the car, that had just been so fast out of the box?  Of course not - that’s not how a chassis builder operates.  No, when I dropped by the shop last week, he was in the process of performing a major suspension change on the car. 
 
 ----  Independent front suspension was banned for use at Oswego Speedway before the 2008 season began.  But it’s still allowed on the winged ISMA and MSA circuits, which still have a few races left on their schedules this season.  So Colloca is converting the #3 over to independent for a few of the remaining races of the season.  “When the front end is finished, then I’ll build the wing”, said Colloca of the plans.  He didn’t have a definite timetable of when the changes would be completed, but he and driver Doug Didero are hoping to run the Delaware, Berlin, and Thompson ISMA shows, and the EastWest Supermodified Shootout in Concord, N.C. on November 8th.  But as with any race team, nothing is cast in stone.
 
 ----  So is there that much of an advantage to independent front suspension, to justify a major rebuild on such a fast car?  “Not that much”, suggested Colloca.  “But it’s a lot easier to fix if something happens, and gives you a lot more adjustments to make.”  Was he just being coy, not wanting me to know if there is a big advantage?  Sounds like a lot of work for a few adjustments or ease of repair.  Guess we’ll find out soon.
 
 ----  Of course the car will be changed back to a solid axle front end for next year’s Oswego schedule.  The plan at this time is to run most of the Oswego shows, along with some winged shows, as time permits.  Didero still resides in North Carolina, so I’m sure traveling back and forth will make it tough to run all of the shows.  The other cars that were built in the past could be converted to a solid axle from the independent, but Colloca doesn’t expect Bobby Bond, Bobby Haynes Jr., or Johnny Benson to retrofit their cars.  The new car, according to Colloca, is not a different car from the others that he has built, so he wouldn’t have much trouble changing any of them over if they chose to.
 
 ----  Oh - and I won’t be calling it a straight axle front end any more.  There’s nothing straight about it.  But the rules say solid front axle - not straight.  After seeing one out of the car, I must say that it looks like quite time consuming to build.
 
 ----  After having his Xtreme cars sweep the top three positions in the Classic, the obvious question was, “have you been swamped with orders for new cars, and who has placed those orders?”  Of course he’s been inundated with phone calls and orders.  Several people are anxious for the coveted next Xtreme Chassis to come off the jig table.  But it’s not like he has an assembly line to make them - he can only build two or three during the off-season.  If you’re serious about racing a super in ’09, I would think you’d have to be getting on the horn for one.  But you’re probably too late.  So who gets the next car?  “I had someone put a fistful of cash in my hand Sunday night after we won”, said Colloca, as a deposit toward a new car.  But he wouldn’t say who that was.   
 
 ----  Oswego Speedway has announced this year’s newest inductees into the Oswego Speedway Hall of Fame, and I’m very excited!  For years and years I’ve wondered about who would be the first driver from the small block supermodified division to make the HoF. Although I always joked that it should be ME, I always hoped that it would be Mike Bond. And my wish came true!  Mike has always been one of the guys to beat in this division. He’s backed that up with championships and wins and awards. I’ve said for years that Mike is and has been the best driver in this division. But he’s also been a behind the scenes guy in this division, and has done a lot for others. Mike has worked on, driven, and helped me with setup on my own car several times over the years, and I doubt I’m the only one. I could go on for days about Mr. Bond, but I’ll save that. 
 
 ---- I could not be more proud to call Mike a friend for over 30 years now. We’ve shared a lot of fun and laughs, (high school, our weddings, vacations, and racing) and even some times of despair over the years.  Knowing Mike, I’d say that I’m probably more excited about it than he is.  Reached for his thoughts, I was correct in that assumption.  The following are Mike’s thoughts about the induction, in his typical understated manner: “Oh, it’s pretty big.  Now I’ve got to do a speech.”  I did my best to drag some inflection out of his voice, but to no avail.  Deep down, I’m sure Mike sees the enormity of it all.  He’s just good at keeping it inside.  Congratulations to Mike Bond on this huge honor - you deserve it, buddy!
 
 ----  Here are the other Class of 2008 Hall of Fame inductees:
 
 ---- Doug Heveron - The supermodified driver dominated the speedway in the early 80’s, winning 27 features from 1980 to 1983.  He became the youngest Track Champion and Classic Winner in 1981 and repeated the feat in 1982. Away from the Oswego Speedway he won the ISMA points titles in 1979, 1980, 1981 and 1982.
 
 ---- Jim Ferlito - Jim was a car owner for many years, but has also served the Oswego Speedway community in many different ways, such as writing, supporting the Eagles Fan Club, and organizing “Old Timers Reunions”.
 
 ----  Jerry Rich - “JR” has been the pit steward at Oswego Speedway for nearly 40 years.  If you’ve ever raced at Oswego, you know Jerry Rich, and he’s probably set you straight at least once.  But he’ll be the first one to share a laugh with you when the races are over.
 
 ----  Carol Haynes - Carol is the first woman inducted into the Hall of Fame for her lifetime commitment of spreading supermodified news via writing and doing racing programs.  Nobody has been more dedicated to the promotion of supermodified s.
 
 ----  Bob Goutermout      Goutermout started his racing career as a dirt competitor, but made the switch to small block supermodified competition at Oswego Speedway when they were introduced in 1992.  He won 14 features in the small block division, before moving on to the supermodified division, where he won another 13 features.
 
 ----  This is a great year for the Oswego Speedway Hall of Fame, and I would like to commend the committee for a job well done.  The speeches should be a lot of fun this year at the 2008 Oswego Speedway Hall of Fame and Awards Banquet, on Saturday October 25th at the Turning Stone Resort and Casino. A block of 80 rooms has been set aside at a “Speedway Rate” until September 25th. Reservations can be made by calling 1-800-771-7711. The 2008 Hall of Fame class will be inducted on that night. I’ve already reserved my room!
 

 ----  If you like what you’ve read here, and want more, I can lead you to more.  I also have fun writing a “blog”,  which can be seen on the Gater News website at www.gaternews.com.  I hope you’ll go there and check it out, and please leave a comment. 
 
 

Gater News - September 10th, 2008

What else can be said about Oswego Speedway’s Classic Weekend, that hasn’t already been said?  The race was two weeks ago as you’re reading this, and plenty has been discussed.  But don’t worry - I’ve got a few other comments to make.  Like I always do.
 
 ----  The supermodified race was a race that people will remember and talk about for years to come.  It’s the most amazing thing I’ve ever seen.  A brand new car, started less than one month before Classic Sunday, on July 31st.  No practice on Friday.  No practice or time trial on Saturday.  The first lap ever on the brand new car is just moments before their time trial attempt on Sunday, and is in the low 17’s.  He’s the fastest car in the second round of practice, getting the car down to 16.791.  In the time trials, it was fastest of the weekend, and fastest of the session, by a half second.  A 16.514 second lap.
 
 ----  Builder Paul Colloca and driver Doug Didero pulled off the amazing feat of winning the 200 lap Classic, in a brand new Xtreme Chassis supermodified of Colloca’s design.  The first day that the car ever hit the track.  Didero’s run from 15th to the lead on lap 165 showed skill, intelligence, patience, and aggression when it was needed.  An aggressive, wheel-banging move to the inside of Dave McKnight for the lead was the chance that he needed - or decided - to take, and could have easily damaged his car and ruined his classic Classic run.  But it worked, and the rest is history.  Congratulations to Didero, Colloca, and the rest of Team Xtreme for this history making, amazing performance.
 
 ----  Had Didero not stolen his thunder, Joe Gosek and the 00 team would have been the story.  After sitting out the season because of a rules change that obsoleted the independent front suspension design of the Al Archer owned Xtreme Chassis, Gosek appeared with a redesigned design that promptly snatched the pole spot.  It wasn’t the first time ever on the speedway, as a track rental and other practices gave them a little more time to dial it in.  But it was another amazing feat, and Gosek’s 2nd place finish showed why he is considered one the all time great supermodified drivers in supermodified history.
 
 ----  D.J. Shullick finished in third, in yet another brand new Xtreme Chassis car.  Are we starting to see a pattern here?  Yes, Xtreme Chassis cars rocked the supermodified world by sweeping the top three positions of the most prestigious supermodified event of the year. (More on that further down the page…).  But Shullick once again proved that he is one of the younger stars of the supermodified world, the only guy in the top ten without many years of experience in the division.  (Craig Rayvals was the next least experienced super driver, and he’s been running the class since 2002.)  Shullick also finished in third in the weekend’s ISMA event, making quite a sweet weekend for the Ohio driver.  Not to mention a fine second place finish on Friday night as my teammate (along with Bobby Santos III and Kathy Harrington) in a flip-cup game at Luther’s campsite. Get used to hearing this: “Shoe Jr.” will be one of the all-time greats. 
 
 ----  Davey Hamilton was the first non-Xtreme finisher in the field.  Hamilton wheeled the John Nicotra owned Hawk Chassis #6, a teammate to Otto Sitterly, to a 4th place finish.  This was yet another brand new car, hitting the speedway during the weekend for its first time in competition.  Hamilton drove a brand new, but not the newest style, Hawk Chassis, that was acquired from Strong Racing just a few weeks prior to the Classic.  Nicotra bought the bare frame from Pat Strong, since his own new style Hawk Chassis was not able to be completed in time for the Classic.  A lot of people helped get the car ready, including Otto Sitterly, Ray Graham, Johnny Torrese, Pat Strong, Jim Paternoster, and others, according to Nicotra.
 
 ----  “The Jersey Jet”, Joey Payne showed once again how the cream does rise to the top in the 200 lap Classic race.  Driving a car that was built many moons ago, Joey took the Strong Racing Team #99 into the top five, a great feat for anyone.  Payne
 
 ----  Although most people would be happy with a 6th place finish in the Classic,  sixth place probably did not make the Furlong team happy.  Greg Furlong had won the last four Classics in a row, and is always a favorite to win any Classic that he enters.  Why wouldn’t he be?  He wins most of them.  Nobody has won seven Classics, and Furlong fell short in his quest to do that.  Chalk it up to not having enough time with his new style Hawk Chassis car to get all of the bugs worked out.  I’m sure that some changes will be made to that car during the off season, and they’ll take another, more competitive run at number seven in 2009, after having the car for the whole season.
 
 ----  Super veterans Tim Snyder, Craig Rayvals, Tim Gareau, and Howard Page rounded out the top ten positions.  It wasn’t the first rodeo for any of these guys, who certainly had to be happy to finish in the top ten. 
 
 ----  Lou LeVea and the Coon-France team were very happy with their 11th place finish.  The rookie driver worked hard to get the car ready for the race, but never got up to a decent speed in time trials or the B-main.  Fortunately for the team, their 8th place finish in the season’s point standings earned them a provisional start for the Classic - the 34th and final starting spot.  LeVea should have been tired at the end of the day, because he also competed in the day’s earlier feature, the 100 lap small block supermodified event.  But a 71 lap DNF ended the day for Louie, in 20th spot.  Quite an impressive feat, though, something that’s never been done before on the same day, to my knowledge.  People have driven in both races before, but not on the same day.  Pretty good for an old timer.
 
 ----  Dave McKnight led the first 164 laps of the feature, but ended up credited with 14th in the final rundown due to a smack off the wall at the end of the race due to a part failure.  It was a great day for McKnight and Syrell  Racing until lap 193, when the fun ended.  He was in third place at the time.
 
 ----  Same thing for Tim Jedrzejek.  Not that he led, but he lost a solid top five finish when he ran out of fuel on lap 185.  A top five in the Classic would have topped off a great weekend, which saw him finish 2nd in Friday night’s ISMA wing show.
 
 ----  Bentley Warren missed out on his opportunity to win Classic number seven, when he collided with the wall on lap 152.  22nd was his final result.
 
 ----  Everyone was very happy to see Jeff Holbrook back in unwinged competition at the speedway on Sunday.  Holbrook, who lives just a few miles down the road from the speedway, ceased competition at the speedway a few years back after a disagreement with speedway management.  Holbrook campaigns 2-4 cars regularly on the ISMA circuit, and fans really miss seeing the Holbrook cars at the speedway.  After breaking the ice on Classic Weekend by competing, does this mean that we may see the Holbrook cars more in 2009?  Here’s hoping.  Hopefully speedway management used the opportunity to roll out the red carpet to Holbrook, and made him feel welcome.  Maybe bygones can be bygones.  Unfortunately, Holbrook got a check for a 26th place DNF at the end of the day.
 
 ----  Dave Sanborn made his way to Oswego Speedway for his first attempt at Classic.  Usually Sanborn races with a wing on his car, so his topless inexperience and low budget made him a long shot to even make the show.  Sanborn was thrilled when he won the B-main, gaining him entry into the biggest supermodified show of the year.  Unfortunately, Sanborn experienced troubles, and was credited with a DNF of 33rd at the end of the day.  But the G-note that Sanborn earned for 33rd went a long way toward covering his expenses for the weekend.  Mission accomplished.
 
 ----  How tough is it to make the Classic field?  It was pretty tough this year.  44 cars entered the show.  34 started the feature.  According to my calculations, that would leave 10 cars out in the cold.  And they weren’t slugs.  Get a load of some of these names, that didn’t even make the field.  Michael Barnes.  Justin Belfiore.  Bobby Santos III.  (Yes, THE Bobby Santos III!)  Gene Lee Gibson.  All previous supermodified winners.  Also Bobby Haynes.  Bobby Dawson.  Bob Bogwicz.  (Maybe it was the name “Bob”?  Four drivers named Bob failed to transfer from the B-main.)
 
 ----  Rookie Tim Timms also came up short on the weekend, finishing out of luck in the 6th position in the B-main, which transferred just two starters.  But he still made more money than most of them.  Timms won the Eagles Fan Club’s $10,000 grand prize in the Super Fan Plan drawing.  The Eagles annual fundraiser is a 50-50 event that raises a total of $30,000 by selling only 300 super fan plan tickets at $100 each.  $15,000 goes to the drivers point fund, and the other $15,000 goes to the lucky winners of the drawing, which is performed by Eagles prez Larry Lee on Sunday of Classic Weekend.  It was great this year to see the ten grand go directly to a driver, who can certainly use those funds for his racecar.  Great job by the Eagles Fan Club for this year raising at least $25,000 for the race teams, due to Timms winning the grand prize!  If you see Sue & Larry Lee, Mike Foster, Dayna Cliff, Deb White, or Sue Delong, be sure to thank them for all that they do.
 
 ----  I had a phone conversation with super owner John Nicotra about his views from Classic Weekend, and his feelings about the Xtreme Chassis cars stealing the top three positions.  “It actually worked out for the best that the new car (a new style Hawk Chassis car, the mate to Greg Furlong’s, had been purchased from Joe Hawksby, but wasn‘t completed)  wasn’t ready, as Greg’s wasn’t up to speed yet”, said Nicotra.  “Joey’s going to cut up Greg’s, and make some changes.  We unloaded this car at 17.0”.  But as you may expect, Nicotra, like many other owners in the supermodified community has his concerns about the Classic domination of the Xtremes.  “I’ll try to do whatever it takes to get my guys to try to run up front.  But can everyone do that?  The first three finishers, $38,000, went to outsiders, or people who don’t run weekly at the speedway”, said Nicotra.  Although Hamilton doesn’t run regularly at the speedway, I wouldn’t consider this team an “outsider”, since teammate Otto Sitterly competes weekly at the speedway, and did much of the work preparing Hamilton’s ride.
 
 ----  Nicotra does worry about the series for 2009.  “I’m going to stand behind the speedway - whatever’s best for the weekly racer.  If any changes or clarifications are made to the rules over the winter, it has to suit the weekly racers. Not the Classic invaders. But if any changes are going to be made, they need to be made now.  Maybe there should be a rule where drivers have to compete at the speedway two or three times during the season to be eligible to run Classic”.  So of course I asked the obvious question - when did you call (Xtreme Chassis builder)  Paul Colloca about a new car?  “I’ve got a call into Paulie this morning.” (This was Tuesday, Sept. 2nd, two days after Classic.)  Nicotra didn’t exactly say that he was ordering a new Xtreme Chassis, but wanted to at least have a discussion.  “I’ve got a couple of irons in the fire”, said Nicotra.  “I know Davey Hamilton is not content to fly across the country to finish 4th.”
 
 ----  I haven’t seen the video of the small block supermodified race, but I believe that this year’s edition of the small block Classic was one of the more entertaining races in recent years.  I know that I didn’t seem to be spending a lot of time driving under caution, and I didn’t see a ton of wrecks.  It would appear as though the plan of starting the cars heads up in their heat races by time trials was a good plan this year.  There - I said it.  I’m not happy about that plan, because I’m an embarrassingly bad time trialer, and I’ll never have a good starting position if it’s always done this way.  Plus, time trials are terribly boring for the fans.  But I have to be honest, whether I like it or not.
 
 ----  Dave Cliff Jr. won his second Classic in a row, a feat that many people (including me) didn’t think could be done.  And this time he had to pass some good cars to do it.  But once he took the lead for good on lap 43, he never looked back.  Cliff cruised to a 3.56 second lead at the finish, causing a lot of people to shake their heads, wondering why Cliff has been so much faster than most of the other cars lately.  His 19.305 second time on lap 44 was a tenth faster than anyone else was able to turn the whole race.  Many people anxiously awaited the results of the thorough post-race inspection, which I’m sure was very extensive, under the circumstances.  Faster than everyone else, biggest race of the year - you can bet that the tech crew went through that car with a fine-tooth comb.  But all systems checked out legal, just like 2007, and congratulations are once again in order.  Congrats to Dave Cliff, and the whole Gnomey Racing Team!  I believe they call it Gnomey Gnation.
 
 ----  Kevin Knopp passed nine cars, earning the Hard Charger award, getting to 2nd place in the final rundown.  A great season for the track champion, who started so far back because of a heat race tangle with Mike Bond, which relegated the #04 to that 11th place starting position.  I’m anxious to review the video from this situation, as Knopp felt Bond “helped” him in that heat race, while Bond felt that Knopp’s slip in the speedi-dri on the track is what caused the contact.  Knopp did pass Bond in the feature to get to 2nd place, while Bond ended up 3rd.  Brian Sobus made my pick look bad by finishing in 4th, after time trialing second fastest.
 
 ----  Is there something inappropriate going on between Kevin Knopp and Chip Wood?  Both married men, it made me squirm a little to read Knopp’s profile in the Classic Yearbook, when he mentioned Wood over ten different times during the profile.  Definitely creeped me out.  I threw up in my mouth a little when I read it.  Love is a beautiful thing.
 
 ----  Dave Gruel opted to utilize the Johnny Moore #44 for the Classic, after struggling with Tom Aaserud’s Crow Motorsports machine throughout the season.  It was Aaserud’s engine in the car, and Gruel ran well.  The regular Crow Motorsports crew fielded the car.  A top five finish at the end of the day somewhat makes up for the iffy season that saw the team struggle almost weekly, trying to get their “new design” Hedger Chassis figured out.  The plan a few weeks ago was for Gruel to wheel Tim Barbeau’s #50 for the upcoming Race of Champions event. 
 
 ----  Rob Pullen had a solid 4th fastest time trial lap, one of the elite four cars that could lock into the field by turning an excellent lap.  Pullen cracked off a solid 19.374 lap in time trials.  A sixth place finish in the final rundown was Pullen’s reward.
 
 ----  Chris Proud and Russ Brown were two drivers that lost laps in the pits during the race.  But that was allowed this year, without penalty.  I don’t really understand it, but the ruling was announced before the race that you could pit as many times as you want, for as long as you want, without losing a lap, as long as it was only during caution laps.  I’ll have to have this rule explained to me at some point, because I was beat by both of those cars - cars who ran less laps than me.  Proud and Brown were 8th and 9th, to my 10th at the end.  Yes, we apparently did run the same amount of green flag laps, and no, there was not a lot gained by those guys sitting in the pits while I was driving around under caution.  But I don’t like it - it seems funny to me.
 
 ----  Proud did pass me fair and square to get the position in the White’s Car Care #4 for that position.  It was announced that Proud may have nudged me out of the way for the spot, but I’ll stick up for him.  As I moved high to try to gain momentum to get to Tim Barbeau for 7th, Proud and Brown pounced on the opportunity to take those two spots from me.  It was a nice run for Proud, who had to pit because of a dragging nose wing early in the race.
 
 ----  Eddie Horne’s two cars finished 11th and 15th in the final rundown.  Horne himself scared the living heck out of me several times when I was behind him early in the race.  I don’t know if he planned to have his car set up that way, but he was so sideways coming off of the corner that I could see the yellows of his eyes every time he stepped on the gas.  I haven’t been so scared since I was a little girl!  Eddie was driving the same car that Josh LaRochelle drove most of the season before pulling the plug in early August.  Because it was hard to drive.  Dirt driver Jerry Holmes drove Horne’s other car, the #13 Hedger Chassis that was campaigned by LaRochelle in 2007, to a 15th place finish in the final standings.
 
 ----  I had a lot of fun racing with guys like Ken Pierce, Larry Muroski, and even Horne.  I didn’t have so much fun racing with Shawn Walker, who I tangled with around the middle of the race, going completely sideways before gathering it up.  Of course I needled him about it afterwards. 
 
 ----  My own race went well, and I was very…well pretty happy with a 10th place finish, after starting in 19th because of my inability to drive fast for two laps of time trials.   I gave away two positions at the end, but for the right reason.  I was happy that after running so poorly in last year’s races, I was able to RACE with, and pass people, instead of being a rolling road block.  It got so frustrating last year watching the cars in front of me get smaller and smaller.  The highlight of my day was watching the friends and crew jump up and down and cheer after I made that great save on the back stretch when I tangled with Shawn Walker.  People in the infield looked me right in the eyes, I was so far sideways, before I saved it.  The celebration was great to watch from the driver’s seat. 
 
 ----  I enjoyed “makin’ it rain”, throwing (fake) money into the air during my pre-race intro.  I felt just like a rap star there for a minute, watching that dough fall down like rain. Maybe Jay-J, or LLcoolJJ should be my rap name.  Or JJ2Phast.  Another classy thing that I enjoyed this year was the entire safety crew greeting us all before the feature, wishing us luck, and requesting that we be safe.  I thought that was really cool. Quality bunch of guys.
 
 ----  Another highlight of Classic Week for me happened on Thursday morning.  I couldn’t wait to get to my newspaper box to see in print my FIRST EVER story in the Syracuse newspaper, the Post Standard.  I was very excited to be a “contributing writer” in the newspaper.  But mostly I was excited to see my division of racecars, the small block supermodifieds, the subject of a feature story in the Post Standard.  And I was very excited to see all of my friends’ names, the drivers who I interviewed for the story, in the Post Standard.  I was disappointed that ZERO people from the small block super community acknowledged the story, or expressed gratitude about the publicity for themselves or our division, but sometimes I expect too much.  I’m sure it’s appreciated.  I hope it is - I worked hard to write - and get that story.
 
 ----  Other highlights included the Front Door Tavern Classic Open golf tournament.  I had some good golfers on my Captain and Crew team, pulling us to second place in the overall standings at the end of the day. The Thursday night go-kart races were anti-climactic.  Watching time trials for an hour or more sent us looking for more entertainment.  We would have come back for features, but rain killed that idea. Friday was spent in the shop most of the day working and finishing up the racecar.  Although I have never liked working on the racecar, I was reminded that it can still be fun if you have the right group of people.  We found and corrected some problems, and made the car very fast.  It was a very productive day.  Friday night after the races, watching the Dave Wolever show and hanging at Luther’s party is always great.  A late night trip to Burger King on our golf cart turned bad when it died at the drive-thru, but turned into a great story for later.
 
 ---- Saturday’s boring (and humiliating for me) time trials for all divisions were still fun.  We had plenty of time to visit and chat and laugh while the cars went around one at a time.  The heat races were good, I’m told.  And the modified race was a good show.  An early (well kind of) night in the motel with Canadian friends Rob Pollitt and Jeff Denna left time for even more laughs.  A good sleep in a real bed and a shower in the morning were an unexpected surprise, even if I did have to sleep with one eye open, for a guy who planned to crash in Barry’s van.  To all of the girls and surrounding crews that set up the ultimate pit buffet to keep us all fed during the weekend - Debi, Samantha, Jamie, Melanie, April, Amy, Denise, Bethany and others who contributed, that was some feast. It was great having everyone there, for sure.
 
 ----  Sunday night’s after party stories were also legendary, the highlight being my wife April trying to make our kids insurance wealthy on the golf cart.  We lived, the golf cart didn’t.  And thanks once again to the large group of race friends who helped get our racecar and hauler out of the mud early Monday morning.  I’ll never forget that Herculean effort of strength and force - and a chain hooked to a Hyundai Santa Fe.  Was 2008 the best Classic ever for me?  I think it may have been.  But not just because of the racing.  That was great too.  I just overall had a lot of FUN.  And that’s what racing is about, right? 
 
 ----  I know I’m running long here - again - but I just have to mention the Friday night ISMA show, which was amazing.  I don’t know why it’s so captivating to watch Chris Perley dominate, but I’m not tired of it.  He turned a 15.198 second in time trials, making the old track record of 15.4something look ridiculous.  It’s just amazing that he’s so much faster.
 
 ----  This week brings quite a conflict between the MSA winged super series, which has a race at Sandusky, and the ISMA series, which has their Classic at All-Star Speedway, both this Saturday.  Who will go to which race?  This conflict was brought about after the race at All-Star had to be postponed due to bad weather in New Hampshire caused by hurricane whoever.  I hope both races have great attendance.  DJ Shullick, currently tied for the MSA point lead, has announced that he will run the All Star Classic, in Clyde Booth’s car, shunning the MSA race.  But if I’m correct, MSA points go to the owner, not the driver, giving Shullick a shot at the title still, with another driver behind the wheel.  It sure seems like Shullick’s dad, Dave Shullick Sr., would be a natural replacement.  It’ll be very interesting to see what happens this weekend in the winged supermodified world.
 

 

Gater News - August 28, 2008 - Classic Preview!

This is it - the big enchilada.  This weekend, starting August 29th,  is Oswego Speedway’s Classic Weekend.  The weekend that brings race fans from around the country, to our little Oswego N.Y., for three nights / days of great racing action.  Friday night starts off the weekend with the winged supers, along with the Tobias SpeedSTRS.  Saturday’s action showcases the RoC Modifieds, and the Buckeye Super Sprints.  Round one of time trials for supermodified s, as well as time trials for small block supers will also take place on Saturday.  And then Sunday is the BEST day of the year for supermodified and small block supermodified fans. 200 laps for the supers, along with qualifiers are held on Sunday.  I’m already excited - and I’m reading this several days before you!
 
 ---- So I’ve worked on a preview of the drivers who will be competing in the two supermodified divisions.
 
 ---- Dave McKnight will certainly be a factor in the 200 lapper. Although he only competed at the speedway a couple of times in the Gary Syrell owned Hawk Chassis #08, McKnight made one of those visits a win. A regular ISMA competitor, McKnight does have a history - and a knack - for this race. And after watching him win a few weeks back, in the same car, I'm picking him as one of the drivers who I feel has the best chance to add his name to the history of the event. Top three.
 
 ---- Young Jeffery Abold amazed the supermodified world last year by finishing third in the Classic, in his first ever try. He had only even sat in a fire-breathing super just a few times before. Third? It was shocking. So what will happen this year? Odds say that he can't match top three again, but he will do well.
 
 ---- Lou LeVea is the previous small block supermodified driver who had a phenomenal season as a rookie, in the Coon-France Motorsports #03. I've been impressed with Louie's transition, but I was talking to a super driver a few weeks ago that said, "if he keeps driving these things like a small block, he's going to get into trouble." Something about not giving someone room when they show you a wheel. So will Louie play conservatively, or drive it hard? I'll tell you in a few days.  I see that the Coon-Frances also have a second car entered in Sunday’s race, with the driver being listed only as “Coon France Racing”.  Spare for Louie, or will someone be approached soon about driving it?  Mike and Dick - I’ll keep my schedule open.  But you should call Mike Bond.
 
 ---- Why does Tim Snyder have his car for sale, complete, on an Internet classified board? I'll tell you why: he's planning to go out on top. His second Classic win would be the perfect time to make the move if he was going to.  (Hopefully that’s not the case).
 
 ---- Shawn Muldoon had a nasty collision with the wall two weeks before Classic. That night, he was pretty sure that he wouldn't be back for Classic, but things usually look better the next day. Shawn runs well in Classic, and will be a favorite in his speedy Hawk.  Ironically, Shawn, a former track champion when he drove one season for his brother Mike, has never won a feature.  No better time than the present!
 
 ---- Pat Lavery had a great season, finishing 2nd in points. But that elusive win is still swinging in the breeze for Pat, and he knows it. I think that angry face that he had on the last regular season night will be turned into some major intensity come Classic time.
Watch out, you guys!
 
 ----  Bobby Magner is Lavery’s teammate on the Double Deuce Team, and carries some excellent momentum into Classic.  Magner has won three features this season, including one just a couple of weeks ago.  I know he doesn’t have a lot of experience in 200 lap races, but he’ll be getting some this week!  Magner should do well.
 
 ---- Bob Reis had a good look at a first feature win a few weeks ago, but ended up in that tangle with Shawn Muldoon. He's had some good runs this year, so maybe Classic will be his first win.
 
 ---- Past champion and multiple feature winner Tim Gareau left the sport a few years ago. But he's been keeping sharp running karts at "the track out back", the kart speedway that is located on the speedway grounds behind the back grandstands. (See www.oswegokartway.com).  Apparently they still had a car in the shop, and I see Tim's name on the pre-entry list. He's another speedway veteran who has yet to add a Classic win to his resume.
 
 ----  Howard Page has been out a few times this season in the #18, the car that was formerly campaigned by Travis Bartlett.  Howard has made some changes to the car, and grabbed a couple of top fives on the double feature night that closed the season.  May be a good time to peak.
 
 ----  Jason Spaulding had a solid season, finishing 4th in points in the Jake’s Automotive #23.  Spaulding had several good races, but still looks for that first win.  That he plans to get this weekend.
 
 ---- I don't think people appreciate what a big deal it is to win Oswego Speedway's Classic. Here's an example: Indy 500 racer Davey Hamilton flies in from the west coast, in a car put together especially for this race by Hamilton's friend and owner John Nicotra.
Hamilton already has one Classic ring on his finger, and would like to have another. He's a supermodified specialist, and he'll be a major contender for this race. A brand new Hawk Chassis was purchased for Hamilton to use in this race, but it remains to be seen if it will be completed in time for the race. He'll have a horse in the race though, one way or another.
 
 ---- Otto Sitterly is Hamilton's teammate, in another car owned by John Nicotra. This year's track champion is yet another vet who hasn't captured a Classic win. How excited would Nicotra be to see a one-two finish?  Otto's got a great shot.
 
 ---- Stephen Gioia III would love to add his name to the history of Classic Weekend. His father, track co-owner Steve Jr. has his Classic rings. Stephen's style is great for these long races, and he does well. Maybe this is the #9's year?
 
 ---- How crazy would the place be if Bentley Warren, the most popular supermodified driver of all times, won another Classic? I get shivers up my spine just at the thought of it. And it could happen, too. Bentley's still as sharp as ever, despite the fact that he's raced supers since they were pulled around the track by dinosaurs. Unfortunately though, it would probably be the last race ever at the place, because Bentley fans would be so excited that the celebrating would probably end up with burning and flipping over cars, looting, and tearing down the grandstands. It would look just like when a big city wins a championship. It would be crazy!
 
 ---- Jerry Curran just won his first feature a couple of weeks ago, after many years of trying. A long time supporter of the track, fans would be very excited to see Jerry's second win happen on Classic weekend.
 
 ---- Keith Gilliam must think that racing a supermodified is like riding a roller coaster. He has a good week, then he has a bad week. He goes fast, then he wrecks. His last race was a pretty tough impact backwards into the wall in turn three. But he will be back for Classic, and the car will be immaculate.  Go look at it at the track, but you may want to see it before he wrecks…’er, I mean RACES it. Many of us would LOVE to see
a top five for Keith in the Classic!
 
 ---- Michael Barnes has had a crazy run the last year or so in the supermodified division. He won some races, and almost the championship, for Double Deuce Racing in 2007. Then he had a couple of horrible crashes in some late season ISMA races that sent him to the hospital, and took away a lot of equipment. He then left the whole team and area to compete on the traveling ISMA series in Clyde Booth's super. Then that deal ended after a few unsuccessful road trips. Rideless for a few weeks, Mikey's next trip behind the wheel, in a car out of the Ray Graham trailer, sent him to the hospital once again, the victim of a stuck throttle. Next up, Barnes is now pre-entered for Classic in the #77. Maybe now would be a great time to put all of his bad luck behind him.
 
 ----  Craig Rayvals has won a small block supermodified Classic, but not the big one.  He had a supermodified win just a couple of weeks ago, after a tough season, and would like to scratch that 200 off of his checklist this weekend.
 
 ----  Ray Graham has one of the fastest Hawk Chassis cars at the speedway, when he shows up with it.  He’s only run a few times, but I suspect that he’ll make some noise.
 
 ----  Bobby Santos III is one of the east’s most versatile drivers, winning races all around the country, in every kind of car.  Santos has driven almost every type of car that there is, winning in most of them.  He’s even gone as high as the Nationwide series, but never quite was able to close the deal on a full time, big time ride down south.  But he’s still trying, and a win in the biggest supermodified race of all will certainly get some eyes on him.  He’s very capable, and Danny Soule’s Soule Racing #32 is some great equipment.  Santos came close a few years back, losing by a mere couple of feet while wrecking with Greg Furlong.  He’s entered and ready.
 
 ----  The only reason I’m not picking Greg Furlong to win this race is because he’s been struggling lately, trying to get their new Hawk Chassis sorted out.  Since debuting the new style Hawk just a few weeks ago, they’ve had nothing but trouble. But I fell into that same trap last year.  Furlong had been struggling, right up until Classic Sunday, but once again proved why he is one of the greatest Classic drivers of all time, clinching yet another 200 lapper.  I won’t be even a little bit surprised if he proves me wrong - again this year.  He could even choose to use the other car that he ran this year, the several year old C&C Chassis, and still win with it.  That’s what’s great about Classic - it’s more driver, preparation, luck, and strategy, than it is having the most expensive car. 
 
 ----  Joey Payne is definitely going to be a favorite in this race.  Payne drives the car that is owned by his father, but is fielded by Strong Racing.  It’s “on loan”, since the Strongs lost their primary car to a stuck throttle accident earlier in the season.  While Joey hasn’t raced more than a couple of times at Oswego this year, his brother Johnny wheeled the car to two second place finishes on the last night of points.  This car is ready, the bugs are out of it, and Joey Payne is one of the finest drivers to compete in the sport of supermodified auto racing.  Can the “Jersey Jet” pull together the biggest win possible for Pat and Terry Strong?  “Watch!”, Joey told me once, when I asked him a similar question about a TQ midget race in Niagara Falls, Canada, many years ago.  Joey Payne is exactly who I’m predicting to win this race.  And the last time I did that, at an Atlantic City race, he won.
 
 ----  There are a few other drivers who are pre- entered for the race.  Bobby Haynes Jr., Tim Jedrzejek, Doug Didero, Justin Belfiore, Dave Sanborn, Bobby Dawson, Randy Burch, Jack Smith, Charlie Schultz, and others are all drivers who could be factors in this race.  Drivers not pre-entered, but that are reportedly still a possibility are Chris Perley and Joe Gosek.  And two of my favorite drivers that I think do NOT have anything going are Randy Ritskes and Bobby Bond, who will be very sorely missed.  Either driver could be a factor in anyone’s car, if anyone’s looking for a great Classic experienced shoe, who have both come close to winning.
 
 ----  Now for the small block supermodified preview…
 
 ----  Here’s my top four picks, the guys who will time trial the fastest.  I won’t pick the order, but I will name the “Fabulous Four”.  Brian Sobus, Russ Brown, Mike Bond, and Tim Barbeau will be the four fastest time trialers, and one of those four will almost certainly win the race.  I would include Kevin Knopp in this list, but karma dictates that your first or last name will have to start with a “B” to be included.  Sorry.
 
 ----  I won’t get into too much about my under appreciation for time trials, because I’ve already beat that horse before.  I feel that they are boring for fans to watch, because passing will be tougher if the faster car is already starting ahead of the slower car.  Plus it’s boring to watch cars race one at a time.  HOWEVER, I am willing to acknowledge what was pointed out to me by Ed Horne, when I was whining to him about time trials.  “It’s not necessarily true, because sometimes people have fast cars when running with others, but don’t do well at time trials”.  He has a good point.  And I am also willing to admit that last year’s race, which did not line up heats by time trials, didn’t feature that much passing either.  And some wrecks that may have been avoided by a heads up start.  So my plan is to be open minded, give it my best shot (I’m not the best time trialer usually), and hope for the best.  I’m ready!
 
 ---- I’ll start with myself, who only ran once this season. I am very proud that I’m in the top five in all-time Classic small block super points.  No, I’m not the fastest car out there, and since I’m a nervous time trial racer, I don’t expect me to have a very good starting spot in the feature.  But guess what - I’ll be better than I have in the past, and I might surprise a few people - even myself.  I’m saying a top 15 time will put me in a top 15 spot come feature time, which will be better than I’ve started the Classic in awhile.  And since I did run well the one time I was out this year, I’ve got a little confidence going into the race, which isn’t something I’ve been able to say for a few years now.  I will certainly be in the top ten at the end, and closer to the top five.  I’m feeling 6th-7th.  Last year’s 13th place finish ended my streak of seven consecutive top ten finishes, but I intend to start a new streak this year.  I’m very much looking forward to racing in my 11th consecutive Classic!
 
 ----  Eddie Horne will be back behind the wheel of his own car, the #13 that Josh LaRochelle exited a few weeks ago.  I hope that he doesn‘t run into the same problems that Josh ran into setup wise.  Eddie is a multi feature winner, and that is some quality equipment.  Tough race for Mr. Slip N Slide.  “Anybody’s got a shot”, said Eddie.
 
 ----  Russ Brown has already won this race a few times, and will have a great ride in the Pike Brothers #60.  He stormed off in a huff after last year‘s Classic, credited with last place after a lap 12 crash eliminated his chances.  He should be happier now with the heads up start, as he’s one of the better time trial guys.
 
 ---- Chris Proud is another past top runner, who will make another of his few appearances this year.  He’ll also be starting way up front, because he’s a good time trialer, and he’s driving the stout White’s Car Care #4. 
 
 ----  Dave Danzer will be coming off a wreck on the last points night, that caused a total strip of the car, and a trip to Ray Hedger’s shop for a new front clip.  Sometimes these repairs make the car faster, but they also can come back to haunt you for weeks later. 
 ----  Barry Kingsley blew his engine in last year‘s Classic, which was not the way he wanted to end his season.  He had engine problems again this season, but will have his new engine back in time for the Classic. Watch Barry roll!
 
 ----  Jason Simmons had had a rough time this year, with one problem after another.  Maybe Classic will snap Simmons back into shape.  Or at least his season.
 
 ----  Guard Nearbin turned up his game when he jumped out of the Tim Cuyler car, and brought his own car out of storage.  He’s looked a ton faster lately.  He’s run a lot of Classics, and will have a shot at a great finish. 
 
 ----  Lou LeVea Jr. was 2nd in the rookie of the year standings, and has mixed a few top tens along the way.  Maybe this will be Lou’s first top five - or win!
 
 ----  Kreig Heroth won the rookie of the year award in ‘08, in the Chris Lupa owned #46.  Kreig ran the Classic last year, and time trialed 6th fastest, but crashed out on lap 89.  Kreig feels that their team preparation suit’s the demands of a 100 lap affair, and he looks forward to some fun. 
 
 ----  Dave Gruel has had a season that he would probably rather just forget.  He went winless, and struggled with their new design Hedger rebuild the whole year.  An 11th place finish in points is way below the standards of the Crow Motorsports Team.  But major changes will be made for the Classic, including the installation of a new motor to replace the one that was blown on the last night of points. 
 
 ----  Jack Patrick is another driver who has had a horrible season.  Jack has struggled on most nights, but still managed a 10th place finish in the final point standings, thanks to the flop by Gruel, and the disappearance of Josh LaRochelle (who quit driving the Outdoor Power #10, two weeks before the end of the season.)  So what will it take for Patrick to salvage his season?  A win would be great! 
 
 ----  Stan Gates is the envy of Ford fans all over the county.  Both of them.  He started the year off strong, then leveled off to a top ten runner once his handicap started giving him bad starting spots.  But he’s a smooth, consistent, and fast runner when everything goes right, which is just what you need to be for the Classic.  At Classic last year, he surprised many, so that may give him a good starting spot come feature time.  Stan could be the dark horse. 
 
 ----  Shawn Walker would love to put his Classic trophy “on the mantle that I don’t have”.  He had an awesome second place finish last year, and would love to improve on that by a little bit. 
 
 ----  Rob Pullen gets that car pretty fast sometimes, so he‘ll do well in the time trials.  He‘s going to have a good finish this year. 
 
 ----  Tim Barbeau has had a major up and down season.  Wrecks, engine problems, etc.  But then again, all of that stuff is eliminated because he also won two features in ’08.  Since I’ve picked him as one of my top four qualifiers, he’ll be involved in quite a battle for the lead. 
 
 ----  Larry Muroski has truly earned the name of Bad-ass in 2008.  He’s taken no baloney, but passed out plenty.  A nasty ride off of the inside hubrail on the last night of points put him in the doghouse with FFB comrades Ken Pierce and Mike Bond, who was eliminated from championship contention.  When I talked to a sore and beat-up Muroski the day after that wreck, he wasn’t even sure if he even wanted to come back for Classic.  But time heals all wounds, and Larry will be back, and running strong, two weeks later.  He’ll be fast, and make some noise. 
 
 ----  Dave Cliff has seen it all.  Wrecked the new car.  Won a feature. Wrecked the old car.  Won another feature.  Talked about quitting.  Had problems.  Won the Mr. Small Block supermodified feature.  How’s that for a roller coaster ride?  Dave Cliff hopes to repeat last year’s winning performance in the 100 lapper.  Back to back is almost impossible though. 
 
 ----  I think Brian Sobus will be very tough to beat in this race.  Brian has won a few races in his career, but not the big one yet.  He’s been mighty quick lately, so he’ll be one to watch.  His plan is to “time trial in the top 4, keep the tires on it for 60 laps, then GO!”
 
 ----  Mike Bond was pretty sore after losing the championship on the last night.    He didn’t take it well, which is really out of character for the “Poster Boy”, as he was called.  Maybe he’s getting cranky in his old age.  Maybe he’s bringing that anger and aggression to Classic, but anger may not be the answer in a 100 lap race.  He’s already won a couple of these, and his plan is to “go to the front”.  He’ll do well in the time trial, and start up front.  He’s always tough to beat.
 
 ----  Kevin Knopp almost won this race last year.  Even though he was in a crash early, he still sliced through the pack, finishing third. And only a late change in race procedure that made the race director start counting cautions at an odd time, cost him the time to get to the front, because he was certainly the fastest car.  He’s been the fastest car most of the time this year, too. 
 
 ----  Enjoy Classic Weekend.  I know I will.  It’s my favorite weekend of the year.  Hit all the events.  Look for some “guest stars” at the kart track on Thursday night, and enjoy all of the other top shelf racing.  Sprint Cup owner Ray Evernham will compete on Friday night in the Tobias SpeedSTR event.  There will be so much stuff going on, you won’t want to miss a thing.  And also, please keep an eye on www.sbsracingnews.com, as well as www.superracingnews.com for all of the up to date news.  The two sites’ owner, Chris Porter, is a contributing sponsor on my own racing team this weekend.  Thanks Chris - you’re one of local racing’s biggest supporters!
 
 ----  The Eagles Fan Club have been doing a fantastic job of raising money for the teams at Oswego Speedway this year.  At the season ending banquet, the money that is raised by the volunteers of the Eagles Fan Club is distributed based on attendance, not points.  One way that the money is raised is by the selling of 300 super fan plan tickets, at $100 each, which pays back $15,000 to the winners, and $15,000 to the teams.  Grand prize is $10,000.  Tickets can be purchased from Sue & Larry Lee Call 343-9099/529-1504.  Or contact hammerlee99@verizon.net.  It all happens this weekend!
 
 ----  Dayna Cliff and Debbie Bond are selling laps for the small block supermodified Classic this year.  Dayna will be in the stands at the Eagles Fan Club table, while Debbie can be found in the pits. Laps are $15 each, with $10.00 going to the first-place driver for that lap and $5.00 for the current second-place runner.
 

 

Gater News - August 21, 2008

Yet another first time winner at Oswego Speedway!  This is starting to turn into a habit - a habit that everyone loves to see.  Jerry Curran captured his first ever Oswego Speedway victory after many seasons of trying in the supermodified division last week, and the crowd went nuts!

 
 ----  Curran has been a long time competitor at Oswego Speedway, campaigning self-owned supermodified s for years.  Jerry has had many close calls at the speedway, and even won a feature in the supermodified division a few years ago in a special race at Adirondack International Speedway.  But in the last few years, a new style of chassis, featuring advanced aerodynamics, inboard shocks, and a bunch of other tricks, made the class more expensive.  And in the process, some drivers with average budgets were forced to the rear, or completely out of the division.  Curran, who is a truck driver, delivering beer for Eagle Beverage, had a decision to make.  Get big, or get out.
 
 ----  I’m sure it killed him, but Curran sat out the entire 2007 season.  He even missed the opener this season, not having the car ready.  The delay was definitely about finances, Curran told me before the season started that he never believed in not putting the car on the track before he could afford it.  Well good things come to those who wait, and it was really exciting to see Curran finally collect the checkers in his Nuclear Banana #24.  Congrats to Jerry, Mike Foster, and the team for that first win.  Nobody deserves it more than you guys!
 
 ----  Another awesome story from the super division was the two successful runs for Johnny Payne in the Strong Racing fielded #99.  Payne’s brother Joey started the year as Strong’s driver, racing intermittently around his NEMA midget schedule.  But an unfortunate stuck throttle destroyed the car.  Payne’s father volunteered a car that he owned, that was not currently in competition, and it was put together for the remaining races that Payne was able to attend around the NEMA shows.  Recently, the decision had been made for the Strongs to still field the car, with Johnny Payne behind the wheel. 
 
 ----  It was a great decision.  Last week, Payne nailed down two second place finishes for the Strong Racing Team, probably one of the best career nights of racing for the Oswego, N.Y. based operation.  Classic Weekend plans call for Joey Payne to be back behind the wheel of the Strong racing entry, with Johnny Payne being left rideless.  “I’ll probably be sittin’ on the beach Classic Weekend”, said Johnny Payne in his best Jerky Boys / New Jersey accent, when I asked what his Classic plans were.  I wonder if these two seconds will set any changes of plans into motion.  Congrats to Pat and Terry Strong, two of the longest running, most loyal supermodified teams in the industry, along with crew chief Larry Lee and the rest of the team, along with the famous Johnny Payne as well.  
 
 ----  Bobby Magner got tangled up in a wreck during the first feature, bending up a lot of body work in the process.  But it must not have hurt the car very bad, because he was a ROCKET in the second feature, where they came out with a completely different tail attached!  Fully two tenths of a second faster than all others, Magner destroyed the field, winning his third of the year.  Very impressive feat for the rookie, in the Double Deuce Racing #22.
 
 ----  Congratulations must also be handed out to Otto Sitterly (driver) and John Nicotra, (owner) the 2008 Oswego Speedway supermodified track champions.  Otto played it pretty conservative, “points racing” his way to two 7th place finishes, but who could blame him?  His main mission was to get out of the night clean, so he and the team could focus on prepping the car for the upcoming Classic Weekend.  Not to mention their bigger project: getting a second car ready for Davey Hamilton to drive in the Classic.  What car will Hamilton be driving?  That’s the big question.  Nicotra has purchased a new style Hawk car for Hamilton to run, but delays in its finish make it unclear whether or not it will be ready for Classic.  But I understand that the team does have the new car in their possession, and will be thrashing for the next couple of weeks to get it finished.  But rest assured - one way or another, Nicotra will have a car for Hamilton to race the Classic in.
 
 ----  Greg Furlong has already received their new style Hawk Chassis a few weeks ago, but have struggled so far getting it up to speed.  They struggled last week with a tuning or fuel problem, and never got up to speed consistently, finishing 11th and 8th in the two features.  The new car so far has not lived up to the hype that has preceded it, but you can be assured that the sharp guys at Furlong Racing will get this car straightened out by Classic time.  And probably win.
 
 ----  Two top fives also made it a great night for Howard Page, who had recently come out of semi-retirement in the #18.  “Handsome Howard” looked great, and the veteran should be a factor come Classic time.
 
 ----  Stephen Gioia III and Pat Lavery both looked great, and just barely missed having both top five finishes of their own.  Gioia ran 6th and 4th, while Lavery ran 5th and 6th in the night’s two feature events.
 
 ----  Shawn Muldoon looked extremely fast in the first feature, and the race was shaping up to be a great battle for the win between Jerry Curran, Bob Reis, and Shawn.  But just after Curran passed Reis for the lead, Reis wiggled right into Muldoon’s path, sending him sailing into the air and into the wall.  “We’re all done”, said Muldoon later.  Not only is the car bent badly, but Muldoon fears that the engine received some damage when the rear wheels left the ground, allowing the engine to over-rev dangerously.  As of race night, Muldoon was convinced that he won’t be in competition for Classic.
 
 ----  Nice to see Ohioan Randy Burch in competition, obviously a tune-up for Classic.  18th and 13th place finishes were his results.  And rookie Tim Timms also got some experience, credited with 13th and 16th at night’s end.
 
 ----  Heard the other night that Joe Gosek may be making yet another run at another Classic victory, after missing the entire season due to a track rules change that made the Xtreme Chassis car that he drives, owned by Al Archer, illegal in its current configuration.  But I heard last week that the car has been converted now to a straight axle car, and they will be renting the track soon.  That would be GREAT to have back one of