Trade Center Automotive and Trail Performance sponsor I-80 305 Sprint class

"Greenwood, NE (March 30, 2006) It was announced today that Trade Center Automotive of Lincoln and Trail Performance of Omaha have teamed up to sponsor an increased purse for I-80 Speedway’s 305 Sprint Car class for the 2006 season. The increased purse will ensure that the winner of each 305 Sprint Car feature in 2006 will take home a minimum of $300 and the second place finisher takes home a minimum of $150.

“We’re very pleased that these two fine businesses share our vision of an affordable entry level Sprint Car class and have stepped up with their financial assistance to help make it all possible” said General Manager Tom Gutowski. “We really want to thank Josh and James for their commitment to I-80 Speedway and our economy 305 Sprint Car class” he added.

Trade Center Automotive specializes in sprint cars but serves all racers with racing fuels and track supplies. Trade Center is also a dealer for Hoosier Racing Tires in the Lincoln area carrying a full line of spec. tires for NASCAR and IMCA sanctioned events as well as tires for the independent non-sanctioned tracks and classes in the area.

Trail Performance Coatings offer Hi-Temp Ceramics and other performance coatings for pistons, combustion chambers, valves and other engine parts. Trail Performance also does Custom Powder Coating for restoration and racing applications and is able to match original colors as part of the restoration processes.

The 305 Sprint Car Class will make its first appearance on Friday, April 7th, in support of the ASCS Spring Sizzler. This race is a non-points event with their first point race slated for April 29th. “We wanted to give our teams time to get their cars completed and some seat time before we started racing for points” Gutowski said."

NRP Mar. 31 Practice Canceled

From NE Raceway Park:

The practice scheduled for Friday, March 31st, has been cancelled because of the heavy rains that hit this afternoon.

We're still going to try and race on Saturday as of this time. We will update our status tomorrow (Fri) afternoon.

Also, we'll hold a practice next Tuesday night, April 4th. The gates will open at 5pm and the on-track practice will run from 6pm to 9pm.

This weekend

There's a lot going on for race fans this weekend. Here's a quick rundown. For more information please visit the track's website or give them a call.

Events for weekend of April 1 (alphabetical by track)

Beatrice Speedway

The Women For Racing (WFR) Car Show and Test & Tune will be held this coming Saturday, April 1. The Car show will be held downtown Beatrice in cooperation with "Main Street Beatrice," starting at 10AM. Test and Tune will be held at Beatrice Speedway from 1:00 to 4:00pm. Packing the track will begin at 12:30pm. April 8th, starts our regular racing season!!!

Junction Motor Speedway

Junction Motor Speedway officially opened the Nebraska racing season two weeks ago with the United States Modified Touring Series and Open Stock Cars. Seventy-seven Modified teams representing nine states and Fort Francis, Ontario-Canada along with nearly thirty drivers in the stock car division took on the 3/8 mile speed plant. Numerous complimentary comments were received from many first time visitors about the modern facilities and amenities available on the grounds of JMS.

This Saturday-April 1st, Media Reps will tour the track and register for 2006 JMS Media Photo Passes. Junction Motor Speedway has received many requests for media passes from all over the United States. Members of the media will ascertain ‘the inside scoop’ of this seasons activity and can make plans for events which will fit their summer schedule. This Saturday’s Test & Tune session will be an excellent opportunity to get those pictures of cars on the track, locate the best places for photo or video coverage of the races, speak to the officials and enjoy some great food and fun.

Junction Motor Speedway is located 4 miles south of the I-80 York exit on Highway 81 at McCool Junction, NE.

For more information, call Barb Nunnenkamp at 402-773-5538 ext 9. Track hours for the Test & Tune session and Media Day will be from 12:00 noon until 5:00 PM on Saturday- April 1st.

Midwest Racers Autograph Day

The 2006 Midwest Racers Autograph Day takes place on April 1, 2006 at Uncle Ron’s Wild West Saloon, 340 W. Cornhusker Hwy., Lincoln, NE from 11AM – 4PM.

This year’s event features cars and drivers from a variety of classes racing at Midwest tracks. Sprints, stock cars, mini-sprints, karts and other vehicles will be on display and fans get a chance to see their favorite machines up close.

Amy Wooten of Lincoln Mortgage is putting up two sponsorship opportunities for Autograph Day Participants; $1000 and $500 sponsorship contracts. Autograph day visitors have the chance to meet Nebraska racing legends such as Frank “Zook” Scdoris, “Smokin Joe” Wade, Willie Ideen and Denny Oltman.

Autograph Day 2006 has more activities and giveaways for kids and adults than ever before, including rides on the now-famous Uncle Ron’s Mechanical Bull. Fans get a chance to win a NASCAR Jack Daniels leather jacket from “Uncle Ron”, t-shirts and other prizes.

Food and beverages are available so come out and get your preview of the 2006 racing season!

Admission and participation is FREE for fans and racers. Visit www.AutographDay.homestead.com for racer registration and fan information.

NRP / I-80 Speedway

Nebraska Raceway Park's I-80 Speedway is gearing up host the MLRA/TORA North-South Shootout Saturday, April 1 st at the 4/10ths mile speed plant. Over 60 Super Late Models are expected to compete along with Home Pride Pro Modifieds, Hobby Stocks and B-Mods.

On Saturday, race day, the gates open at 4PM, hot laps are scheduled for 6PM and the racing action starts at 6:30PM. A driver's meeting is scheduled for 5:45PM and the draw closes at the same time. Gate admissions are $16 for adults, students (11 – 17) and seniors (over 62) is $13, with kids 10 and under free. Pit passes are $30

Beatrice Speedway adds to April 8 purse

In an effort to draw more cars to the speedway, Beatrice Speedway is offering bonus money to the Modified and Hobby Stock divisions, with non-regulars from 2005 being offered additional bonus to beat the locals.

With Eagle moving their Icebreaker Challenge to the 15th and going dark on the 8th, plus I-80 not running modifieds, this could be a very big show in terms of car count

From Beatrice Speedway: "Beatrice Speedway announces that Saturday, April 8th, there will be an added bonus paid out to the winner of the IMCA Modified and IMCA Hobby Stock Divisions.

The IMCA Modified winner will receive $750, and if the winner was not a Beatrice Speedway regular driver in 2005, they will receive $1,000 to win.

The IMCA Hobby Stock winner will receive $250.

April 8th is the opening night at Beatrice Speedway. All classes will draw for their heats and re-draw for their A feature positions.

Admission $8 Pit $20"

JMS to host media for April 1 open house

By Barb Nunnenkamp - Junction Motor Speedway

Junction Motor Speedway officially opened the Nebraska racing season two weeks ago with the United States Modified Touring Series and Open Stock Cars. Seventy-seven Modified teams representing nine states and Fort Francis, Ontario-Canada along with nearly thirty drivers in the stock car division took on the 3/8 mile speed plant. Numerous complimentary comments were received from many first time visitors about the modern facilities and amenities available on the grounds of JMS.

This Saturday-April 1st, Media Reps will tour the track and register for 2006 JMS Media Photo Passes. Junction Motor Speedway has received many requests for media passes from all over the United States. Members of the media will ascertain ‘the inside scoop’ of this seasons activity and can make plans for events which will fit their summer schedule. This Saturday’s Test & Tune session will be an excellent opportunity to get those pictures of cars on the track, locate the best places for photo or video coverage of the races, speak to the officials and enjoy some great food and fun.

Junction Motor Speedway is located 4 miles south of the I-80 York exit on Highway 81 at McCool Junction, NE.

For more information, call Barb Nunnenkamp at 402-773-5538 ext 9. Track hours for the Test & Tune session and Media Day will be from 12:00 noon until 5:00 PM on Saturday- April 1st.

Eagle Raceway Reschedules Icebreaker Challenge

By Jason Orth

Eagle Raceway announced today it is delaying the start of the 2006 season one week due to a scheduling conflict between its season opening Icebreaker Challenge and I-80 Speedway's ASCS Spring Sizzler, both of which feature the 360 sprint car class. Both races were scheduled for Saturday April 8. Eagle Raceway's open house will now take place the afternoon of April 8 (moved from April 1), with the Icebreaker Challenge running on April 15.

After both tracks released their schedules sprint teams were faced with a tough decision on which race to attend. Several Eagle Raceway regulars are competing for the ASCS Midwest Region championship, which (except for the April 8 date) didn't conflict with Eagle's Saturday night schedule. However, the Icebreaker Challenge is an Eagle Raceway point show and many of those same drivers are running for the season points championship at Eagle. In February, Eagle Raceway added pressure when they upped the Icebreaker purse to $2000 to the winner with double points, and stated the June 8 Jim Eckley Memorial sprint race would be an invite-only format with preference given to those who attended Eagle Raceway events. The two races, only 10 miles apart would have fragmented the 360 sprint class car count, where recent declines have been a concern for promoters in the region.

There are conflicting accounts of who scheduled what and when as evidenced in the Eagle Raceway post and NRP/I-80 GM Tom Gutowski's post on DirtDrivers.com where he stated that NRP had discussed the situation prior to scheduling with Eagle Raceway promoter Roger Hadan.

Text From the Eagle Raceway website: "Eagle Raceway has been the Saturday open wheel show in the Midwest for many, many years. Somehow, an open wheel show has been scheduled against Eagle’s Ice Breaker Challenge. With these two tracks being so close to each other, the Eagle Raceway management has decided that it would be in the best interest for our great fans and racers, to move our practice from April 1st to April 8th running 3:00-6:00 pm. Also, our opening points night for all four classes, the Ice Breaker Challenge, will be rescheduled on April 15th with racing at 7:00 pm.

We at Eagle Raceway, hope that the double scheduling of open wheel racing in this area on Saturday nights, will not happen again. We would never consider scheduling a Late Model race on a Sunday. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and hope to see all of you at Eagle Raceway this year for the most exciting 1/3 mile action anywhere."

MLRA/TORA North-South Shootout opens I-80 season

NE Raceway Park:

"Greenwood, NE (March 25, 2005) Nebraska Raceway Park's I-80 Speedway is gearing up host the MLRA/TORA North-South Shootout Saturday, April 1 st at the 4/10ths mile speed plant. Over 60 Super Late Models are expected to compete along with Home Pride Pro Modifieds, Hobby Stocks and B-Mods.

“Thanks to a very mild winter we've never really stopped working on the facility since last fall and the racers and fans will notice marked improvements in visibility and safety upgrades to the track” stated General Manager Tom Gutowski. “We torn out all of the old outside guardrail, improved the entrance gate to the pits, and installed new wheel fencing and poles from turn 2 all the way around to the front straight off of turn 4. Three more traffic lights have been installed around the track to help inform the racers of yellow or red flag conditions sooner and the track surface has been raised relative to the top of the wall on the front straight so that the fans can see the cars much better” Gutowski added.

I-80 Speedway's North-South Shootout is the 2 nd leg of the event for the MLRA and TORA Super Late Models in the young 2006 season and a host of top name competitors from both groups are expected to join the top local area competitors to compete for Saturday's $3,000 to win top prize. “We're expecting a huge turn-out of Super Late Models for this event including many of the WDRL competitors who are off this weekend” said Gutowski."

Autograph Day Featured this Tuesday on KLMS

The Average Joe Sports Show will feature special guests representing Midwest Racers Autograph Day on Tuesday April 28 at 5PM on KLMS 1480 AM in Lincoln. Guests include 3 of the 5 Grand Marshalls, Sponsor Amy Wooten of Lincoln Mortgage and "Uncle Ron, " of Uncle Ron's Wild West Saloon, the host of the event.

Autograph Day will be held on Saturday April 1, from 11AM to 4 PM.

2006 Autograph Day Features Activities, Giveaways

2006 Autograph Day Features Activities, Giveaways

LINCOLN, NE (March 21, 2006) – The 2006 Midwest Racers Autograph Day takes place on April 1, 2006 at Uncle Ron’s Wild West Saloon, 340 W. Cornhusker Hwy., Lincoln, NE from 11AM – 4PM.

This year’s event features cars and drivers from a variety of classes racing at Midwest tracks. Sprints, stock cars, mini-sprints, karts and other vehicles will be on display and fans get a chance to see their favorite machines up close.

Amy Wooten of Lincoln Mortgage is putting up two sponsorship opportunities for Autograph Day Participants; $1000 and $500 sponsorship contracts. Autograph day visitors have the chance to meet Nebraska racing legends such as Frank “Zook” Scdoris, “Smokin Joe” Wade, Willie Ideen and Denny Oltman.

Autograph Day 2006 has more activities and giveaways for kids and adults than ever before, including rides on the now-famous Uncle Ron’s Mechanical Bull. Fans get a chance to win a NASCAR Jack Daniels leather jacket from “Uncle Ron”, t-shirts and other prizes.

Food and beverages are available so come out and get your preview of the 2006 racing season!

Admission and participation is FREE for fans and racers. Visit www.AutographDay.homestead.com for racer registration and fan information.




Autograph Day Sponsorship Opportunities Still Available

If you would like to get your name and let thousands of race fans know about your business for less than the price of mass-media ads, you have your chance on April 1, 2006 as Midwest Motorsports Promotions presents Midwest Racers Autograph Day.

Midwest Racers Autograph Day is a FREE event for racers and fans, and is a great opportunity to promote racing and get your name out to fans known for loyalty to businesses supporting their sport. Basic business sponsorships start at just $75 and for only $125, you get space on site to display your business.

Last season, over 3,000 fans of all ages and nearly 100 race vehicles attended this event. Autograph Day will be featured in a live remote on 95.1 FM.

It’s not too late for a chance to get a great advertising value! Contact Gary Dominguez at 402-432-6316 or visit www.autographday.homestead.com.  

Saathoff takes Beatrice Spring Natls.

Message Board - dirtdrivers.com: "JET Racing Sweeps top three postions at 13th Annual IMCA Spring Nationals
By Scott Wisdom

Despite the frigid temperatures, Beatrice Speedway completed the 13th Annual IMCA Spring Nationals and IMCA Stock Car Spring Fling. What a show is was for the fans that braved the cold weather.

In IMCA Modifieds Johnny Saathoff took his Pinnacle Bank, Irwin Tools, Toobies Lumber, Chase Decals, JR Motorsports powered Jet Mod to the $3,300 payday. Saathoff to the lead from the start and at several points had a half of straightaway lead over the second place car. With several cautions throughout the race he still managed to hold off Jay Noteboom of Hinton, IA in his Noteboom Farms, Jet Racing, Sybersma Graphics Jet Mod who ran second the whole race., Defending Spring Nationals Champion Brian Foote came home in 3rd in his Hart Varms, Foote Repair, Video 2000, Jet Racing Jet Mod, Ricky 'Racer' Stephan in his Dirtworks came home in 4th and Cory Lagroon came home in 5th in his Dirt Works.

In the IMCA Spring Fling were Mike Vangerderen took advantage of a last lap dash after a late yellow involved a couple of front running contenders and took the closely attested checkers followed by Randy Killen, Todd Laflin, Jeremy Bell and Bryan LaRiviere.

The Beatrice Speedway would like to thank each and every driver, crew member, fan and officials that braved the frigid weather to make this show the great show that it was. "

Speed Secrets moves to Fox 4 & 17, expands coverage

Message Board - dirtdrivers.com:

"After four years and 178 television episodes, SPEED SECRETS will test a larger market coverage area in an earlier time slot. Starting this Sunday, SPEED SECRETS will now be available for viewing on FOX 4-KSNB and FOX 17-KTVG. These two stations are based in Kearney with offices in Kearney, Grand Island & Lincoln. The FOX 4 & 17 Channels encompass a large over-the-air antenna signal and are available on numerous local cable providers and satellite dish systems. The move will now expose our commercial advertisers products and services much further west in Nebraska and much further south into 16 additional north central Kansas counties. This Sunday's test show of SPEED SRCRETS will air much earlier than usual, at 7:30 AM. Starting on April 2nd, SPEED SECRETS will air Sundays at 8:30 AM. "

Droud family plans for 2006

Looks like Rodney will not be back to defend his Eagle Raceway championship but will hit the road with his father and brother to make noise on the 360 tours across the Midwest.

Official Rodney Droud Web Site: "(03/17) On the day that my Grandpa Dallas Droud passed away almost 40 years ago, I would like to announce the plans of the DARE 2 Team for 2006.

I’m excited to say that I WILL be racing again but in a little different capacity. I may have some opportunities to drive on a hit-and-miss basis, but have decided to step aside as the full-time driver of the family-based program and work toward bringing the team another season of success.

We’ve decided to focus our attention on racing in multiple series, such as the ASCS and NCRA, rather than race for a track title. While we may take the car to Eagle Raceway on a limited basis, it’s our intention to race as many races as we can at as many different tracks as possible. Our plan is to not have a plan at all. We just want to win, baby!

Here are some of the details of the DARE 2 Team for 2006:

Driver: DON DROUD, JR.
Owner: DON DROUD, SR.
Car: 2005 EAGLE
Colors: RED & WHITE
Number: 2
Engine: OSTRICH RACING ENGINES, Des Moines, Iowa
Tires: HOOSIER by TRIPLE “R” TIRE
Shocks: PRO
Wheels: WELD"

Beatrice Speedway Spring Natls. Update

From Beatrice Speedway:

Spring Nationals Friday Schedule:

Friday Start: 6:30pm Pit $20 Grandstand $10

Saturday: Races start Pit $30 Grandstand $15

According to radio station KWBE, races are scheduled to start at Noon on Saturday.

Weather Conditions are expected to be wet and cold, therefore Sunday's show will be combined with the Saturday. Stock Cars will still run with the Saturday event.

Many of our drivers and pit crew are in Beatrice and ready to race. It's going to be a great show!! Over 106 cars are pre-registered with 5 cars as far away as Canada. Join us tonight !!! Great racing planned!! 6:30pm We will keep you updated with any schedule changes on this website (Beatricespeedway.com)."

Beatrice Spring Nationals

The annual Beatrice Spring Nationals featuring IMCA Modifieds and Stock cars takes place March 17-19. Over 83 modifieds and 28 stock cars are pre-registered. Visit www.beatricespeedway.com for more information.

Spring Nationals is set to be a great weekend of fun, with over 90 drivers pre-registered to attend. March 16 - starts with a Test & Tune, 6-9pm
Grandstand - FREE, Pit $15
March 17 - 6:30 Start, Grandstand $10, Pit $20
March 18 - 4:00 Start, Grandstand $12, Pit $25
March 19 - 1:00 Start, Grandstand $12, Pit $25

Tesch Tops JMS

O’Reilly Auto Parts United States Modified Touring Series: "MCOOL JUNCTION, Neb. -- After a bumpy track on Friday that challenged the physical and mechanical endurance of each team, the Junction Motor Speedway crew provided a smooth and dry 'drivers track' on Saturday as the O’Reilly Auto Parts United States Modified Touring Series put the wraps on the 3rd Annual Nebraska Spring Thaw at the McCool Junction, Neb., speedplant.

The smooth racing surface was a perfect fit for the smooth-driving Jon Tesch as he led wire-to-wire in Saturday's 30-lap 'A' main. Tesch, who scored his last O’Reilly USMTS victory last June, withstood an early-race challenge from Dean Mahlstedt, then held off Mark Noble over the final few laps to pocket the $3,000 top prize."

Friesen wins USMTS opener

Good night for the first show of the year. They ran off 70 mods and 3 heats of stock cars in a little under 4 hours, and it would have been a lot less had it not been for a red and half a dozen yellows in the A. For that kind of car count and the first night - I won't complain. It was COLLLD, but a good time.

Track was "springtime rough," and that's not an insult. At this time of the year, the tracks haven't been worked enough to get a solid base, but it stayed relatively fast all night and drivers avoided any of the larger ruts out there (and there weren't many that were that big).

Great race with several lead changes in the feature with local boy Jason Friesen coming out on top. The B features were wild too, a lot of good equipment sat on the trailer for the A - these are a tough bunch.

"MCOOL JUNCTION, Neb. -- With 70 drivers from nine States and Canada signed in to do battle, the O’Reilly Auto Parts United States Modified Touring Series put the first event of the 2006 season in the books Friday night with the running of the 3rd Annual Nebraska Spring Thaw at the Junction Motor Speedway in McCool Junction, Neb.

At the end of a nerve-testing night of action, it was a local ace standing in victory lane and a new name added to the O’Reilly USMTS list of winners.

With many of the nation's hottest Modified drivers in attendance, Jason Friesen of Sutton, Neb., survived a tough racetrack and an even tougher field of competition as he stormed to his first career O’Reilly USMTS feature win at the 3/8-mile clay oval." Full article - dirtdrivers.com:

Here's a shot of the winner in action early in the evening (click for larger):

Editorial: Climate of Negativity and a Call to Action

I promise to smile for a while after this :-)

Wow, racing season in Nebraska is here already. This weekend it’s the USMTS at JMS and I’m heading out to get my first taste of dirt since September. I’m excited to get out, smell burning fuel and take some pictures. It’s been a warm winter. Whether it’s a factor of global warming is subject to debate, but I see one place where things are heating up – the climate of negativity.

Over the past few years there’s been a disturbing trend. No matter how many silver-lined events are scheduled, there is always the group of people who want to go on about the cloud. Yeah, I know it’s a cliché, but I’m seeing race fanatics tire of the negativity and look for other things to do and that, as a race fan should worry you. It’s happened before – look at sprint car racing in Nebraska in the late 70’s.

My problem is that many of those who constantly find fault while claiming to act in Robin Hood’s spirit do more to hurt the sport than help it.

Two recent races were added to Eagle Raceway’s schedule. The first is a tribute to the late Jim Eckley, a long-time race team owner and supporter of Eagle’s 360 sprint car show. Eagle renamed its Backrow Challenge in honor of Eckley along with support donated by the family. While many new shows are given little time to grow, support thrown behind this event started in 2005 is a move in the right direction.

Unfortunately, the boo birds left the nest and crapped on the race below. Someone found fault with the invite-only format that rewarded cars participating in the weekly show. Another found fault with the rules. Another criticized the spirit of the event saying it’s not the way Jim would have wanted it. Did Jim tell you that? Jim’s son, Jay had to step in to defend the program, months before the race is even scheduled! Why should he have to defend himself for putting on a show?

This week, the ASCS announced a Midwest Region tour stop at Eagle. ASCS fanatics have been vocal in their call for this show, and no sooner did it happen but yet another genius for our sake complains about how Eagle didn’t have ASCS races before. The genie granted him a wish and the first thing they did was spend time groaning about the pain of previous injustices and hurl insults at the alleged perpetrator.

My question to those who continue to ignore the doughnut and complain about the hole is this: what do you want? Should we bring the nuclear-powered DeLorean out of the garage and transport you back in time? What’s done is done. Do you revel in agony? Do you WANT to see things fail so you can complain later, grandstand for everyone saying "I told you so," claim the title of genius and nobody can prove you wrong? It's like hanging garlic in the house and saying because of what you did there's no vampires...I guess I can't argue with that, but I can't say it's true, either.

This constant ingratitude kills promoter’s wills. It kills fan's desire and particpipants ask why they even bother. It’s not just the Internet either. The “don’t turn on the computer” approach doesn’t work when many of those same people are complaining at the pit meeting, moaning at the pay window and derailing off-season meetings. This makes us look bad to fans. What do these people say when their non-race fan neighbor asks them about their hobby? That they race in spite of X, Y, or Z screwing them over? How does that look?

These people spout doom and gloom and the only solutions they provide always seem to involve giving them something (go figure). They’re adamant with their positions on how they’re being screwed yet call others inflexible and unwilling to listen. Look close – see how these people behave and look at their motives.

I asked in a recent post how many people would make noise in the ASCoT’s purse reduction and not a peep was heard – especially from the people groaning over Eagle’s similar action. Where’s the crusading on “behalf of the sport?” Shouldn't the horrible thing done to the racers by the series that will vault sprint car racing into the 21st century have met with more resistance? It’s time we question the motives; are these people crusaders for us poor idiots acting on behalf of the sport or on behalf of themselves, be it personal gain or personal vendettas?

The irony of this not being a “positive” piece is not lost, but unlike others I’m going to offer a solution. It requires work on our part, and isn’t just dependent on the nay-sayers’ behavior....

We have to change the climate of negativity. We need to be more vocal and active in our support. It’s not enough to ignore those who cause trouble for self-serving needs or shake our heads when they rant again. We need to be more aggressive in our support of the actions we appreciate and to openly address, confront and question those who argue against them. Put them on the defensive this time. Not once in history has sitting idle “supported” anything. It didn’t work for hurricane relief, and sitting on the sidelines while others act in ways that hurt the sport is just as bad. As the saying goes: if you don’t condemn it, you condone it.

There’s always a place for debate, but take the time to consider all the angles before getting up on your soapbox. Does this help racing? Generally if it does – the benefits find their way to you in the end.

History buffs and those who thrive on nostalgia like to use the term “Golden Age” for those periods fond to them. For Eagle’s sprint car fans, the Golden Age could have been in the 60’s and 70’s when the “original” Outlaws like Dick Sutcliffe, Ray Lee Goodwin, Jr. and Joe Saldana hit the track. Some see the revival of the sprint car class, first at Midwest Speedway and later at Eagle as a Golden Age. For others the recent years of 40-car nights, a dozen winners, and the high-energy “entertainment” theme could be a candidate for a Golden Age, but it’s too early to tell just as it’s too early to condemn the current management to the dark closet of history. It will take years to make that judgment.

However, if this climate of negativity continues to intensify we’ll have no racing – a dark age – and it will only take a matter of seconds to figure that out.

ASCS Midwest vs. N. Plains at Eagle Raceway

Those who've been vocal for an ASCS show at Eagle get their wish as the American Sprint Car Series visits Eagle Raceway for the first time with a Midwest vs. North Plains region race on Saturday July 22, 2006. No further details have been released by ASCS or Eagle Raceway at this time.

Given it's on a Saturday there should be a good count of cars with the regular field. However, there are cars not running ASCS motor rules that are legal to run the weekly show at Eagle Raceway (albeit not many). It's unknown what these cars' plans will be for that night and if Eagle will also run for track points that night.

I'll keep you posted.

Link - ASCS Midwest Region Schedule

Chapman, Bowers join forces for 2006

Chapman, Bowers join forces for 2006

LINCOLN, Neb. (March 7, 2006) - Toby Chapman and the Rocket Motorsports Team are currently making final preparations for the 2006 racing season. The team will join forces with car owners Rick and Michele Bowers from Omaha, NE. Sponsors for the #84 Maxim include Select Auto, Select Auto Body, Trade Center Automotive, Arbor Garage, Jones Automotive, Carberry Construction, Backlund Plumbing and Eckley Racing Engines.

The team will start the 2006 season with a trip to the American Sprint Cars Series on Tour (ASCoT) race at Devils Bowl Speedway in Mesquite, Texas on March 17-18. After retuning to Nebraska, the team will focus on the ASCS Midwest Region schedule, weekly races at Eagle Raceway and a few NCRA shows.

2005 was a break through season for Rocket Motorsports. The team picked up their first feature win on August 27 at Eagle Raceway. Two weeks later Toby climbed aboard veteran car owner Gary Swenson's 24B and took the win at the ESTS Nebraska Cup at Eagle. Chapman finished the 2005 season with three top ten finishes in point standings with a second place finish in the inaugural season of the ASCS Midwest Region, a fourth place finish with the ESTS (Eagle Sprint Touring Series) and a seventh place finish in Eagle Raceway points.

For more information about Toby Chapman and Rocket Motorsports please visit www.tobychapman.com

USMTS @ JMS Pre Entry List

So far, it's shaping up to be a high-quality field this weekend at JMS.

Message Board - dirtdrivers.com: "Junction Motor Speedway Pre-Entries as of 3/6/06:

Dustin Boney, Shawnee, KS (Regional)
Wade Cross, Phillips, NE (Regional)
Dave Hardesty, Minneapolis, KS (Regional)
Roger Hadan, Waterloo, NE (National)
Timmy Current, Bernard, IA
Clayton Christensen, Spencer, IA (National)
Jason Friesen, Sutton, NE (Regional)
Jim Horejsi, Echo, MN (Regional)
Scott Ward, Watertown, SD (Regional)
Dean Mahlstedt, Clear Lake, IA (National)
Kelly Shryock, Fertile, IA (National)
Al Hejna, Clear Lake, IA (National)
Jason Hughes, Colcord, OK (National)
Ryan Ruter, Forrest City, IA (National)
Tommy Myer, Blooming Prairie, MN (National)
Brad McEwan, Storm Lake, IA (National)
Zack VanderBeek, New Sharon, IA (National)
Matt Richards, Lincoln, NE (Regional)
Jeff Schluetter, New Hampton, IA (National)
Mike Johnson, Council Bluffs, IA (Regional)
Alan Mondus, Lakeville, MN (National)
Jay Poidinger, Somerset, WI (National)
Randy Timms, Wheatland, OK (National)
Danny McKeighan, Council Bluffs, IA
Mike Lineberry, Fontenelle, NE (Regional)
Joshua Vinnedge, Foreston, IL (National)"

We are extremely pleased with the number of national and regional licenses purchased so far, as well as the number of pre-entries. We have more than double the number of pre-entered drivers for this race compared to last year. Last year we had about 60 cars at Junction and we are planning on at least 80 this year.

ASCS National Tour Purse Reduced

Finally someone is realizing that the price of these shows is getting out of hand - especially now there are three national touring sprint car series this year.

It will be interesting to see if the same people whining about the purse cuts at Eagle will apply the same logic here or will their true motives come to light?

American Sprint Car Series:

"Lonnie Wheatley, TULSA, Okla. (March 2, 2006) – In an effort to better serve both track promoters and race teams, the purse for the O’Reilly American Sprint Cars on Tour has been restructured for the 2006 season.

While the purse has been restructured to be more affordable for tracks across the country, the previously announced $150,000 point fund with $50,000 earmarked for the 2006 series champion is still in place.

The winner’s share for each one night event has been changed to $3,000, with the balance of the changes made through the middle of the purse. The tenth place feature finisher in each one night event will receive $750, with all feature starters still earning $400.

“The effects of this restructuring will be twofold,” explained series president and founder Emmett Hahn. “The revised purse structure is more affordable for more tracks now, so that will help get some of them off the fence and book some races. And the racers will benefit by having more races, which will more than offset what we’ve had to trim from the original purse structure.”"

DIRT MotorSports Announces Three New Key Positions to the Company

Word is this was a pre-requisite to obtaining additional investment capital. These three however have a firm background in the race community and should be a positive force for DIRT.

DIRT MotorSports Announces Three New Key Positions to the Company

"DIRT MotorSportsTM (DIRT) (OTCBB: DMSP) announces the addition of three new executive officers to the Company. Tom Deery joins the Company as President; Rob Butcher joins the Company as Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer; and Ben Geisler joins the Company as Executive Vice President of Operations."

I-80 Speedway General Meeting To Be Held On Sunday

Link: www.neracewaypark.com

Drivers who plan on competing at I-80 Speedway during the 2006 race season are encouraged to attend a general meeting planned for Sunday, March 5th at the Ice House located at 10920 Emmet St. in Omaha. The meeting will cover a number of topics of interest to competitors and will also serve as a forum for questions regarding the 2006 season.

Among the topics to be discussed will be the point fund payout for each race division. The NASCAR regional and track point funds will be explained along with I-80 Speedway’s 5% point fund contribution to NASCAR and the local I-80 Speedway point fund.

There will also be an explanation of the general rules and procedures that will be utilized at I-80 Speedway in 2006. If you have questions on how points are scored, how line-ups are determined, how the Chase For The Championship works or other pertinent questions, this meeting will provide you a great opportunity to find answers to your questions before the season starts.

This IS NOT a rules meeting as the car rules for the 2006 are final and have been posted on the track’s website at www.neracewaypark.com. However if you are seeking clarification of rules or procedures, we will attempt to supply you with the answers to those questions during the meeting.

You’ll also be able to purchase your car number, NASCAR license and pit pad during this meeting as well.

We’ll divide the car classes into separate meeting times so that we can accommodate the number of participants better and focus on certain specialized class issues. The race divisions and meeting times for each are listed below.

1pm - Pro & Novice Hornets, Grand Nationals and 305 Sprint Cars

2pm - Late Models (Crate Engine) & Super Late Models

3pm - Pro-Ams, Hobby Stocks, Modifieds and B-Mods

Eagle Raceway Jim Eckley Memorial Race - Back Row Challenge

A fitting tribute to one of Eagle Raceway's longtime supporters. Jim, a longtime sprint car owner passed away on December 17 after a battle with cancer.

Eagle Raceway:

"Jim Eckley Memorial Race - Back Row Challenge scheduled for Thursday, June 8th, 2006.

Eagle Raceway in conjunction with the Eckley family and sponsors bring you the Jim Eckley Memorial Race. Adding $6000 to the purse and $2300 worth of product giveaways from our sponsors, Aggregate Carriers, Scoco Supply, Natco, Eckley Racing Engines, Shaver-Wesmar Gear Drives, Mark Burch Motorsports, Mahle Motorsports, Huggins Camshafts, Manley Performance Products, Scott Performance Wires, and Holliman Ltd. More sponsors to be announced.

The race will feature a special format:

Non Points Race! Invite only to Eagle Raceway's 360 Sprint Supporters.

Line-up Procedures:
1st A Feature Event-
-Heats will be lined up by time trials. Top 12 from heats will go directly to 1st A Feature. (heads up)
-Two B Features to fill final 8 A Feature positions.
-Regular weekly purse for 1st event. (ex: $1000 to win)

2nd Event-
-Top 8 finishers from 1st Event A Feature are automatically qualified for 2nd A Feature Event inverterd from the 1st Event finish.
-Two last chance races will fill the final 12 positions.
-Will pay 125% of weekly purse for 2nd Event. (ex: $1250 to win)

This will be over an $18,000 total purse to all participants.

The Eckley family would like to thank Eagle Raceway and all of our weekly racers for being a part of the life of Jim Eckley for the past years.
"

Eagle Raceway regular Phil Penney success at Mohave Valley

Phil Penney, a longtime top runner in the Modified division at Eagle Raceway started his season early at Mohave Valley Raceway in Arizona. He finished 15th in the Feb 4th A feature, 8th on the 11th and won the race on the 18th. UPDATE: Phil ran 2nd on 2/25.

ElbowsUp.com :: View topic - IOWA’S PHIL PENNEY DOMINATES MOHAVE VALLEY’S ROUND TWO: "Mohave Valley, AZ -- Having turned over 500 laps around the 3/8 mile clay oval dragging a sheep’s foot behind a truck during the week as he played a role in replacing last week’s off road like racing surface, Iowa’s Phil Penney jumped into his Victory Chassis IMCA Modified and used a high line to climb into the lead from 8th starting in just 9 laps Saturday afternoon as Mohave Valley Raceway staged round 2 of their four weekend Winter Season. Penney had earlier won his heat race from fifth starting and his big day was worth $1000."

USMTS @ JMS March 10-11

You realize racing season starts in just two weeks...

NOTE: The USMTS press release states March 11-12. The 12th is a SUNDAY. The race is on Fri and Sat. the 10th & 11th.

O’Reilly Auto Parts United States Modified Touring Series: "McCOOL JUNCTION, Neb. -- It will have been a long 139 days since the last checkered flag waved, but the wait is nearly over for thousands of race fans and drivers throughout the Midwest.

The O’Reilly Auto Parts United States Modified Touring Series is set kick off a thrilling 73-race season at the Junction Motor Speedway in McCool Junction, Neb., on Friday and Saturday, March 10-11, for the 3rd Annual Nebraska Spring Thaw.
"

Thayer County Speedway 2006 Sked

This one slipped under my radar (no pun intended)

2006 Thayer County Speedway Schedule

New Promoters, Brothers, Greg (Radar) Bell and Lonnie Bell

We will be running IMCA Modifieds, IMCA Stock Cars, and IMCA Hobby Stocks.
IMCA Sport Compact and Cruisers will Alternate every other week.

Pits Open at 4:00 with Hot Laps at 5:30 Racing at 6:00.


April
23rd – Mods, SC, HS, Sport Compact
30th – Mods, SC, HS, Cruisers

May
7th – Mods, SC, HS, Sport Compact
14 – Off, Mother’s Day
21st - Off
28th – Mods, SC, HS, Cruisers

June
4th – Mods, SC, HS, Sport Compact
11th – Mods, SC, HS, Cruisers
18th – Mods, SC, HS, Sport Compact
25th – Mods, SC, HS, Cruisers
July
2nd – Off, Belleville has races
9th – Mods, SC, HS, Sport Compact
16th – Mods, SC, HS, Cruisers
23rd – ONLY Mods, SC, & HS - NO Cruisers or Sport Compact
30th – Mods, SC, HS, Sport Compact

August
6th – Mods, SC, HS, Cruisers
13th – Mods, SC, HS, Sport Compact
20th – Mods, SC, HS, Cruisers
27th – FINAL POINTS NIGHT
Mods, SC, HS, Sport Compact, & Cruisers

You can call Radar @ 402-365-4136 for more information.

Danley and Ideus announce plans for '06

Brad (IBRACN) Brown posted info detailing 2006 plans for 360 Sprint drivers Rick Ideus of Roca, NE and Lincoln's Jason Danley. Both drivers are going to be road warriors this season.

As he's done for the past few years, Rick's going to hit the road running Knoxville's weekly program and ASCS Midwest region races. Danley is also going on the road full time with plans to compete for the ASCS Midwest and NCRA 360 Sprint titles. Full story: IBRACN's RUMORS/NEWS

Freuer Resigns as NRP Gen. Manager

An open letter from outgoing NRP GM Dave Freuer to the racing community was posted on Dirt Drivers today. Dave took over a tough job with NRP and they've grown their program and facility.

Good luck in your new venture, Dave.

Message Board - dirtdrivers.com: February 16, 2006

For almost 25 years, racing has been a major part of my life along with the lives of my family. It has allowed me the opportunity to meet some really great people who share my passion for Motorsports and witness some of the best racing action in the country.

Anyone associated with racing realizes the sacrifices that are made by the drivers, car owners, crew members, race officials and families who love Motorsports. Their commitment to the sport is seen in the countless hours spent preparing for each event, the miles that are traveled to compete and the summer weekends filled with wheel to wheel battles on their favorite race tracks.

As a person grows older their priorities in life often change. I have come to that point in my life now as I officially resign my position as General Manager of Nebraska Raceway Park. This has been a difficult decision to make considering how much a part of my life Motorsports has been. However, it is time for me to look at the “big picture” and what is best for my wife and family who have sacrificed so many things so that I could be involved with racing.

I will always have fond memories of my time here at Nebraska Raceway Park and the wonderful people associated with this fine facility. It has been an honor working for a group of owners who truly love racing and constantly strive to make Nebraska Raceway Park a better facility for everyone to enjoy. I have also had the privilege to enjoy watching some of the most talented drivers and pit crews in the United States compete every weekend. In addition, it has been a pleasure being associated with the great staff and employees whose hard work and dedication allow the events to run so smoothly. And I can not express my appreciation enough for all the great fans and sponsors who support Nebraska Raceway Park.

The 2006 race season is quickly approaching and I believe it will be one of the best ever. There are a host of great special events on the schedule as well as two spectacular nights of NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series action each weekend on Saturdays and Sundays. I have no doubt that the track owners along with Tom Gutowski, Kevin Bonney and the rest of the staff will make it a season to remember for everyone involved.

In closing, my path has come full circle as I return to my home state of North Dakota to pursue other interests. I look forward to being able to spend time with relatives, family and friends and enjoy events and occasions that time or distance hasn’t allowed in the past. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your lives and your love for auto racing. Have a great race season!

- Dave Freuer -

Another pic

Before I go to bed, here's the first digital image I caught racing...and the first time I shot racing at Eagle. It was on May 17, 2002 during a UDTRA late model race. Pictured is Earl Pearson, Jr. image ©2002 Jason Orth

I-80 Wins NASCAR "Team Player" Award

NASCAR Honors Top Weekly Series Tracks With ''Team Player'' Awards:

"DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — NASCAR honored its top short tracks on Saturday, with its annual NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series “team player” awards. The awards, presented by NASCAR President Mike Helton, recognize outstanding race promotion efforts from the 2005 season and several special categories representing the best in NASCAR short track racing.

The following NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series track operators were presented “team player” awards:

Division II: Owners and staff of I-80 Speedway at Nebraska Raceway Park, Greenwood, Neb."

Jack Dover Update

Got an update with some good news on budding sprint car talent Jack Dover from his mother, Lori. Last year, Jack was caught under a falling trailer door and suffered compound fractures to the tibia and fibula on the right leg, a “hip pointer” in his right hip, and road rash on his back.

Just thought I would give you an update, and you are welcome to share it on your site if you would like....

Jack is recovering nicely from his accident last fall, he is getting around pretty good, although he still has a limp, may have forever. He is really excited, just turned 16 and got his driver's license...watch out, he's on the streets, just kiddin, he is a really good driver on the streets, he saves it for the track. His 2006 plans are racing a 360 full time probably at Eagle and running some of the ASCS Midwest shows, and maybe a trip or two to Knoxville and Belleville. Jay Eckley is building his motors and Eagle Chassis is custom building his Chassis, as he is almost 6'4" tall now, we may have to strap the wing on his Helmet.(LOL). We will probably go with the same scheme as last year, but may make a few changes. The 305 car will be at the World of Wheels Auto Show in March. Jack is really eager to get out there and race, he just said today, "he can't wait to race Billy Alley and Gary Wright," so he is definitely wanting to play with the big boys. Hopefully he will do good.

It's always good to see new talent continuing to find opportunities in local racing and we should be happy to get the chance to see them.

Saldana/Kahne Join WoO Mean 15

Article: Sprint Racing Series - Dirt MotorSports

After winning the 16th World of Outlaws feature of his career on Friday night at Volusia Speedway Park, Saldana will pilot the Kasey Kahne Motorsports Central Merchant Services/Dodge/Curb Records JEI in his quest to capture his first series championship as a member of the World of Outlaws Mean 15 group of teams." (As of 2/14/06, Joey's still listed on the NST site)

Wasn't Kasey Kahne one of the big names that was going to team up with Joey Saldana and help the newly formed National SprintCar League power past the WoO?

Oh...well now he's going to help the new NST move ahead...

Nope.

After shunning other NSL defectors, the WoO is willing to let bygones be bygones with Kasey Kahne as he and Joey are going to compete for the WoO title.

You can here it in Norman, OK now...Cha-ching!

Talk of drivers willing to take pay cuts to help the new NST build is just that - talk. As your backmarker WoO teams run out of money you'll see more NST drivers head for "greener" pastures with guaranteed point funds and TV time. That was the plan for most of the NSL refugees until Fred Brownfield and the NST came forward.

In all fairness, for most teams the tour winnings don't pay the expenses. They need to get what they can, and the only sure thing out there is the WoO 2006 point fund.

But the pickins' are slim, you have a series (WoO) that is in financial trouble, can't get a title sponsor, needs a business model that doesn't rely on venture capital and and a schedule literally collapsing onto its core when it needs to expand.

Will Kahne help? I don't think so; we've had the current NASCAR champ's name on a WoO trailer for how many years sponsoring a series champ and it didn't make the WoO take off like wildfire.

On the other hand you have a series (NST) that is trying to get off the ground with its only asset: the "names" leaving. And I don't think Joey is the only one making tracks.

This looks more like scurrying for the lifeboats than sailing ahead.

Sorry I'm so pessimistic about 410 racing, but this ball started rolling downhill several years ago.

Omaha Area Malls to showcase NRP Race Cars

OMAHA, NE (February 13, 2006) – Race fans in the Omaha and Council Bluffs area will be treated to race car shows at two area shopping centers this March. I-80 Speedway at Nebraska Raceway Park will host race car shows at both facilities to kick off the 2006 racing season. Westroads Mall in Omaha will be packed full of race cars the weekend of March 18th and 19th for the 2nd annual Race Car Mall Show at that facility. Last year’s event was a terrific success and this year’s event will again feature race cars from the race divisions who compete at I-80 Speedway during both the Saturday and Sunday night NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series sanctioned events.

The inaugural Race Car Mall Show at Mall Of The Bluffs in Council Bluffs will be held the following weekend on March 25th and 26th. That event will also host race cars from both the Saturday and Sunday night programs at I-80 Speedway.

Westroads Mall and Mall Of The Bluffs show will include displays of go-karts and cage carts which are raced at the Little Sunset Speedway go-kart track also located at the facility. In addition, a display of motorcycles that compete at Nebraska Raceway Park’s Soaring Edge Motocross Park will be on display.

“This is a great opportunity for race fans who want to see these monsters of speed up close and personal before the first race of the season,” said Dave Freuer, Nebraska Raceway Park General Manager. “Thousands of shoppers enjoy Westroads Mall and Mall Of The Bluffs every day so this is a wonderful way to expose them to the quality drivers who compete at all the race facilities at NRP.”

The shows at both Westroads Mall and Mall Of The Bluffs will be open to the public during regular mall hours on Saturday from 10:00am to 9:00pm and on Sunday from 12 Noon to 6:00pm.

“We’re excited about hosting the 2nd annual Nebraska Raceway Park Race Car Show,” said Alison Hrabe, Marketing Manager for Westroads Mall. “NASCAR and auto racing are among the hottest sporting events in the nation and we’re glad that Westroads Mall can be associated with all the loyal fans and drivers who follow the sport”.

“We look forward to the opportunity of hosting the Nebraska Raceway Park Race Car Show at Mall Of The Bluffs,” stated Liz Sudeta, Marketing Coordinator for Mall of The Bluffs. “There are a lot of great race fans in Iowa and this will offer them a chance to experience the great motorsports events available in our area.”

Fans may also register for 5 pairs of grandstand tickets to be given away during each mall show. These tickets will be valid for any one selected 2006 race event held at I-80 Speedway.

Space for race cars will be limited so drivers wishing to display their car should contact the Nebraska Raceway Park office at 402-731-4592 ext. 3 as soon as possible. Reservations for display space will be awarded on a first come, first served basis. There is no cost to display a race car.

For More Information Contact:

Dave Freuer – General Manager

Nebraska Raceway Park

Phone: 402-681-8070

Amy Wooten & Lincoln Mortgage to Sponsor Two Autograph Day Participants

Autograph Day:

"Amy Wooten & Lincoln Mortgage to Sponsor Two Autograph Day Participants


Amy Wooten & Lincoln Mortgage will give away two sponsorship contracts, one for $1000, and one for $500 to random race teams selected during the 2006 Midwest Racers Autograph Day, taking place April 1 from 11-4 at Uncle Ron's Wild West Saloon, 340 W. Cornhusker in Lincoln.

'One of the founding purposes of Autograph Day is to connect racers with sponsors,' said Autograph Day President and Founder Gary Dominguez. 'Amy'sbeen a supporter of racing for several years, most notably last year's title sponsorship of the Eagle Sprint Touring Series. Thanks to Amy, at least two race teams are guaranteed to get sponsorship.” The sponsorship contracts are open to any class and are subject to terms available at the Autograph Day website"

Photo: ESTS @ I-80

ESTS official John Hart tries to calm down an angry Clint Garner during a red flag period in the A feature at I-80 Speedway on Sept. 2, 2005. Garner and Seth Brahmer collided while racing down the backstretch, stopping the race. Brahmer crossed the pits leaving his wrecked sprinter and confronted the South Dakota driver. Despite being able to continue, Garner retired to the pits.

Image ©2005 Jason Orth

Eagle Raceway: "No Rumors...Just Facts!"

In an attempt to quash rumors circulating on message boards and websites, Full Throttle Entertainment, LLC (FTE), Eagle Raceway's Management posted a strongly worded and ominous statement on their website this week.

Also in the statment were a renewed commitment to Eagle Fire and Rescue and a promise that top National Sprint Tour drivers would be at Eagle for the June 9 & 10 Eagle Nationals, despite NST dates in Maryland and Pennsylvania. In addition, FTE stated that certain invite-only events would reward those who supported the weekly program.

Eagle Raceway: No Rumors...Just Facts! (full text)

Full Throttle Entertainment’s phone has been busy non-stop with questions! With this transitional year in the entire racing industry nation wide, it is completely expected. Here are some of the known answers.

Eagle Raceway is leased with intent to own and will be operated by Full Throttle Entertainment, LLC until further notice. It is our full intention to continue the tradition of this nationally known Sprint Car facility and try to improve front gate attendance with new promotional ideas. We understand that not all the responsibility should be on the drivers, but also on the promoter to put on a great show and bring larger crowds to the venue.

This is followed by a not-so-subtle warning from FTE:

There are still reserved pit stall spaces blocked out for the Sprint cars in their previous areas until March 1st. We are fully aware that Eagle Raceway is known as a Sprint car facility…there are no intentions of Late Model racing at this time. Although if the Sprints do not support Eagle Raceway, there could be an alternate plan for the 2007 race season that would include a completely different type of Sprint car class. (emphasis added by HRN) For Eagle Raceway to continue at its best, we all have to compromise and operate with some common sense. We need to support each other for Eagle Raceway to continue beyond 2006. We are putting our hearts, soul and check book into the upcoming 2006 race season.

Full disclosure: I am a former employee of Eagle Raceway and a personal friend of owner Craig Cormack. However, I am no longer employed by Cormack, Eagle Entertaiment, LLC, and have not been an employee nor contracted business for Full Throttle Entertainment.

One important fact I've heard from discussions with Eagle Raceway Promoter Roger Hadan and Track Owner Craig Cormack: This land will not sit idle.

Both men are successful businessmen and they are not going to sit on this to spite 5-10 naysayers. Trust me.

If FTE doesn't run the track in 2007, and someone doesn't step up, we could see the end of Eagle Raceway. This isn't an editorial statement. It's a (sad) fact.

ASCS Sprints To Visit BCS

After a year-plus hiatus, the 360 Sprints are coming back to Butler County on Friday July 28, 2006.

Butler County Motorplex:

"Butler County Motorplex has added the ASCS 360 Winged Sprint Cars to their 2006 schedule.The date has been set for July 28th 2006. The support class will be the IMCA Modifieds. Call Charlotte at 402-209-0921"

NRP statement regarding 2006 safety crew

There's been a lot of rumor going 'round about the safety crew situation at NRP... Here's an official statement.

From Message Board - dirtdrivers.com (click for full text):

"Nebraska Raceway Park (NRP) wishes to confirm that Five Star Fire and Safety will not be providing Fire and Rescue services to the NRP Facility in 2006. There were several factors involved in this decision.

NRP is proceeding to staff a professional crew of fire and rescue people, all of whom are trained firemen, and many of whom volunteer their services to their local communities. Each of the supervisors and crew members will be paid employees and/or independent contractors of NRP, just as Speed was in prior years. "

Editorial: NASCAR - Toyota partnership here to stay

Well, I promised something over a week ago. When I was writing this, I had to keep the subject racing oriented as opposed to something better presented on the financial page of the local newspaper. Instead, I want to present a few facts and get the point across that to NASCAR, it's about the dollar.

When Toyota made people start to whisper by entering in the Goody’s Dash Series, there was some leeway given as the V6 Toyota Celica entered fit the model of the series.

Again, when the Toyota Tundra came into the Craftsman Truck Series a few years ago, there were rumblings and questions of how Toyota would be able to compete against the big boys without an existing model motor equivalent to the push-rod V8’s mandated by the series. But again, Toyota proved them wrong by finishing second last year in the truck championship and winning 9 of the last 15 races, and will field a truck for defending champion Ted Musgrave.

Now with 2007 looming the new Camry looks to take the Nextel Cup series. They’re coming in with high-profile sponsors such as Red Bull as well. This brings me to my point. NASCAR is not a technology-development series like Formula 1 or the World Rally Championship. There’s nothing to prove technologically here - the spaceframes and pushrod motors are technology dating back nearly 40 years (though the technology used to squeeze every bit of speed out of those limits is state of the art).

The France family, General Motors, Ford, Daimler-Chrysler, and Toyota know that NASCAR is a MARKETING platform. The races are just as much three-hour long commercials as they are sporting events. No other sports league can claim that. Their marketing is between the action, NASCAR’s marketing is during the action, with “solo performances” thrown in occasionally.

So if you’re high atop your throne in Daytona and you look down, you’ll see:

· The #1 selling car in the U.S. is the Toyota Camry

· They’ve established long standing reputation with consumers as a quality brand

· While GM, Ford, and Daimler-Chrysler plants are closing, Toyota employs over 20,000 at 12 plants in the U.S., with plans for more

· Toyota will become the world’s largest auto manufacturer, overtaking General Motors because of GM's downsizing

· Toyota produces a full line of vehicles, from Trucks to family cars, sports cars, luxury vehicles (Lexus), etc. In other words, they hit all of NASCAR’s target markets and any other markets NASCAR wants to work in the future.

If a company is committed that deep in the U.S., then you know their marketing budget has to be HUGE. If you’re the France family wouldn’t you want a piece of that pie?

Now, just showing up with a car doesn’t imply success. If it’s a loser on the track, NASCAR marketing isn’t going to help a bit. Toyota isn’t going to run away with anything, NASCAR will make sure of that.

But you can darn well bet they aren’t going to let Toyota leave anytime soon, either.

-Jason