2014 Nebraska 360 Sprint Schedule

The Nebraska 360 Sprint Series released their 2014 schedule. All dates are tentative.

April 11th (Friday) Interstate Raceway Park Jefferson SD
May 10th (Saturday) Butler County Speedway Rising City. NE (co NCRA)
May 24th (Saturday) Butler County Speedway Rising City, NE
May 25th (Sunday) I-80 Speedway Greenwood , NE
June 14th (Saturday) Junction Motor Speedway McCool Junction, NE
June 27th (Friday) I-80 speedway (As part of the annual Alphabet Soup race ) Greenwood, NE
June 28th (Saturday) Butler County Speedway Rising City, NE
July 12th (Saturday) Butler County Speedway Rising City, NE (co NCRA)
July 13th(Sunday) Boone County Fairgrounds Albion, NE
July 17th(Thursday) I-80 Speedway Greenwood, NE
July 24th (Thursday) Crawford County Fair Dennison, IA
July 26th (Saturday) Butler County Speedway Rising City, NE
Aug 16th TBA
August 31st (Sunday) I-80 Speedway Greenwood, NE
Oct 11th(Saturday) I-80 Speedway Greenwood NE

Eldon Rhoten Passes

Sad news from the Sprint Car world as owner Eldon Rhoten passed away early Tuesday morning. Eldon was a long-time sprint car owner, at times fielding three cars and during the last few years of 360 Sprints at Eagle, he was responsible for nearly 1/3 of the field, with Terry Holliman, Terry's son Tadd, and Stu Snyder driving.

Eldon was known as a very giving owner, and is a permanent part of Nebraska racing lore, and left an indelible mark on Eagle Raceway. I can't do his racing pedigree justice, but I can say every interaction I had with Eldon was a positive one. He'll be missed.

Eldon was 72 at the time of his passing.

Nebraska 360 Sprints Driver/Owner Meeting

From Dennis Parker

The season has ended and now it is time for the dreaded meetings. The Carpetland Nebraska 360 Sprints will be holding a 360 sprint car meeting Next Wednesday November 6th at 7:00 PM. At One Eyed Jacks in Eagle NE.

I stress to anyone interested in this Racing Group or 360 sprint car racing that is a car owner or Driver owner it is asked that you make time to attend this very important meeting. There are a few decisions to make. Once again please try and attend, If you are not going to make it give me a call at 402-677-3757 as we need each and everyone's input. Tell anyone else that might not be on our list please

Dennis Parker

Nebraska 360's Close out Sprint Season

From Nebraska 360 Sprints:


It is one week away from The Carpetland Nebraska 360 Sprints' last race at I-80. Although it is not a points race a full field of cars is expected thanks to an added 1200.00 dollars to the purse.

The winner's share will be 1200.00 and the rest of the purse will just drop down one spot so second pays 1000.00 and so on. 200.00 to start. Some out-of-towners are planning on coming so it should be a great show.

ASCS Midwest Fall Brawl includes $20,000 bonus!

From Chuck Zitterich, ASCS Midwest

The Midwest Fall Brawl just took a jump to the next level with the addition of the "Double Down....Back to Back Challenge." Thanks to Durst Motorplex and Zoz Farms sponsors of the Double Down there is a huge bonus if a Sprint Car driver can win the features on September 20 & 21. The bonus, a cool $20,000.

Add that to the $2,500 each feature pays to win, $750 each night for the Searsboro Telephone Hard Charger and another $1,000 for the Hotrod Paintless Dent Repair King of the Hill and one driver could leave I-80 $27,500 richer. Now that is some serious money and that doesn't count the Electrical Systems Podium Draw for $300 each night!

Last year's Midwest Fall Brawl saw both feature events go green-white-checker on a lightning fast track with Jason Johnson and Jack Dover picking up the wins. This year's Second Annual Midwest Fall Brawl sponsored by the Home Pride Companies should be no different.

Racing along with the ASCS Midwest Sprint Cars on Friday, September 20 will be unsanctioned A Mods for $1,000 to win and unsanctioned Grand Nationals for $500 to win. Hotrod Paintless Dent Repair is also paying $250 to the A Mod Hard Charger and Pro Tech Electrical Systems is having a $250 A Mod Podium Draw. In addition, I-80 Speedway and Adams County Speedway has a $1,100 point fund for A Mods for I-80 on September 20 and Adams County on September 21.

On Saturday, September 21 the SLMR series and the GOTRA series will be racing with the ASCS Midwest Sprint Cars. Hotrod Paintless Dent Repair will be paying a $250 Hard Charge Award to the SLMR series and Pro Tech Electrical Systems is having a $250 Podium Draw for the SLMR series.

Tickets for the event are $20 for Adults each night, $5 for Juniors (6-12) with 5 and under free as always. Or you can get a two-day ticket for just $25 but there will be refunds only if both nights are rained out. If one show gets completed and the other show rained out, there will be NO refunds. Call (402)-342-3453 and order your tickets today.

Pit gates open both nights at 4:00 pm, with the Grandstands opening at 5:30 pm and racing at 7:15 pm. I-80 Speedway is located one block north of Interstate 80 Exit #420, halfway between Lincoln and Omaha. For more information, visit www.I-80speedway.com or call (402)-342-3453.

ASCS Nebraska Cup Weekend and Fall Brawl

ASCS Nebraska Cup Weekend

Sept 6 - Friday - Corning, IA - $1500 to win!
Sept 7 - Saturday - McCool Junction, NE - $1500 to win!
Sept 8 - Sunday - Eagle, NE - $5000 to win! (Plus $1400 Lap Money)

Pre-registration for the Eagle $5000 to win race is free if you call the office BY Sept. 3rd. Otherwise there is a $50 entry fee.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

ASCS Midwest Championship / I-80 Fall Brawl

Sept 20 - Friday - Greenwood, NE - $2500 to win! (Plus Lap Money)
Sept 21 - Saturday - Greenwood, NE - $2500 to win! (Plus Lap Money)

Plus the following bonus money:
Durst Motorplex & Zoz Farms Double Down / Back to Back Challenge
** $20,000 Bonus if same driver wins both nights! **
Searsboro Telephone Hard Charger Award
** $750 Bonus Each Night! **

Hotrod Paintless Dent Repair
** $1000 King of the Hill winner! **
Electrical Systems
** $300 Podium Draw Each Night! **


No Entry Fee for this race - But...If you pre-register with the I-80 office before Sept. 13th The Gang at the "WORLD FAMOUS" Dingus Lounge in Knoxville will pay your $10 draw for Friday night.

Speedway Motors Remembers Joyce Smith, “Mrs. Speedway”

From Speedway Motors


We are saddened to report the passing of Joyce Smith, "Mrs. Speedway." With her family at her side, she lost her courageous 34 month battle with cancer on Sunday. She is now in a better place, free of pain, and with her Savior in Heaven.

In 1952, fresh out of college and newlywed, Joyce Smith loaned her husband "Speedy Bill" the $300 he needed to start Speedway Motors. Throughout the years, Joyce's outgoing and friendly nature served Speedway Customers well… "No one could sell hub caps, fender skirts and continental tire kits like Joyce!" Joyce was initially Speedway's bookkeeper, parts runner and counter gal and always served as Financial Officer, Corporate Secretary and Treasurer. Joyce was a trailblazer, a tireless working mom who labored 60-plus hour weeks at Speedway while raising her four boys and still finding time to teach Sunday school. As a respected businesswoman, she was honored to serve and direct many organizations, several as their first female board member.

She was a true "car gal" in a man's world. In the early days Joyce's daily driver was her prized red '34 Ford pickup, a Rebel's car club show winner. Always at Speedy Bill's side for 60 years, Joyce attended or worked more races, car shows, trade-shows than almost anyone in America. Since their inception, she walked the swap meet fields of Hershey, and worked the aisles of SEMA, Daytona, PRI and attended countless street rod and racing events. In 2005 she was honored as Goodguys' Woman of the Year! As the proud co-founder of the Museum of American Speed, Joyce now shares her love and knowledge of racing and rodding history for future generations.

Joyce's friendly, outgoing personality was genuine. She loved people and she was liked and respected by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. The entire Speedway Nation will miss you Joyce!

Bill, Carson, Craig, Clay and Jason Smith

The Kids are Alright

Finally!

After a few work-related and family duties, I got to take my first trip to see the new Nebraska 360 Sprint Series in action at Butler County Speedway last Saturday.

Twenty sprinters took to the speedway on a hot July night. The track was dry: baked by the heat and a later start time – races kicked off about an hour later than posted – but that’s about the only complaint I have. A nice crowd watched a very high quality of sprint cars own the program, along with the GOTRA Vintage cars, Mod Lites (dwarf) cars and “Outlaw” Street Stocks. Unsanctioned full-sized Modifieds were on the sked, but that was scratched for lack of participation. I’d say running unsanctioned Modifieds against three tracks in the area running full weekly shows with a USMTS race at I-80 probably isn’t the recipe for success.

But I’m not here to pan the track or the program. In fact, quite the opposite. Brent Pick and crew cleaned up a dormant facility that was tidy and looked like they had run each week and not just for specials. Concessions were cheap, the infield was freshly mowed, the old tanks/silos outside of turn one had been removed, and the hideous orange guardrails were painted a normal white. They’ve done a great job.

One of the best parts of the night started before any cars took to the track. It was a pleasure to see Steve Janousek, Dennis Parker, Larry White, and Randy Palmer as officials, and received a hearty welcome from each. And the handshakes, waves and nods from the drivers and crew were welcome too. Obviously, there’s comfort with familiarity.

I noticed something else: everyone was relaxed. It’s a different environment without a packed pit and a tight time schedule. The pit meeting was low-key, a few debates got settled without any heavy-handedness, and everyone just lined up and did their thing – raced.

For all the hand-wringing, rhetoric, and animosity of the past few years at Eagle, this was a refreshing break from the tension. Don’t get me wrong – when the call goes the wrong way, all that goodwill goes out the window. But tonight, it was about a group of guys happy to be where they were. No sideshow, no rush – and yet there was no need to rush. Classes lined up when they needed to, they lined up on the yellow flags without any prodding from officials, and the show ran smooth. I realize that the first show at BCS was about as smooth as sandpaper, but everyone learned their lessons and things went easy.

Cries of doom and gloom (and even my suspicions) have been largely squelched. A reduced schedule, a low-key environment and maybe just the taste of something new have left the Nebraska 360 Sprint Series doing quite well on its own. There’s still uncertainty, the costs and a question if the sponsors will hold on outside the population bases of Lincoln and Omaha. But for now, July 2013, they’re doing just fine. In fact, promoters at several tracks have asked for repeat shows but the series is wisely refraining from hitting the well too often. “Next year…” is the reply.

I’m not sure anyone thought that BOTH series would be holding their own after mid-summer. Eagle’s 305 class is doing well – and has a lot of advantages going for it: location, costs, and – I mean this nicely – good luck can go a long way while people are still feeling their way around. Just like the days of springed-fronts and Firestone Diamond tires in the 360’s infancy.

So can the two continue to exist? There have been a few of the 360 drivers send opting to take their talents to Cass County on Saturdays, and that’s their decision. There may be a few cars opting to run for the increased money of the touring group. This isn’t a debate about one class vs. the other: both classes have moved on. Fans should do the same.

The bonds formed by the heritage of over 30 years of 360 racing keep this crew going for now. While there are plenty of vets in the class, some of the guys behind the wheel are a decade removed from the class’ genesis at Midwest Speedway, but their fathers, families, friends all lived this sport and did a lot of it with the group I had the pleasure to be around Saturday night.

Oh, the racing? Darn good. A spectacular second heat, and drama in the feature as pre-race favorite Jack Dover went a lap-down after an early-race mishap kept everyone tense: Dover was tearing his way through the field until about lap 20 when the bottom finally gave way and the cushion became the only way ‘round. Trevor Grossenbacher earned his second win of the season.

“Thanks for coming” was a familiar greeting.

No. Thank you for having me.

P.S. I’ll have some action shots online this week and I plan to be at Eagle this Saturday.

Feeling the urge

This Saturday I plan on heading out to the track again, this time with the Nebraska 360 series in their final visit to the reopened Butler County Speedway. It's been a few years since my last visit and it would only be my second race this season. I had plan to hit a few more but rainouts and business travel in June precluded that.

But it was sitting down today with a copy of Vintage Motorsport that set off a little spark. Not only was it topical with a feature on Speedway Motors Museum of American Speed, but the second of a three-part series on the history of Sprint Car racing. Now don't get me wrong, a simple magazine feature isn't nearly enough to encompass the history of the sport, but after reading it the wheel began rolling....

Out came Bob Mays' book Big Car Thunder. The Joe Scalzo's The American Dirt Track Racer, covering the life and times of the dirt champ cars.

And of all things, today's featured video on Fox Sports with Tony Stewart calling his own teammate Steve Kinser an a--hole got me in the mood.

I need to get back in the dirt.

Now, my life has changed such that without it being an part of my life, such as a job in the industry, I can't devote as much as I used to. Every week is too much right now. But the interest is back...I'm starting to miss it. I'm starting to pay attention to it. I browse results, read Brad Brown's ibracn.com weekly...just starting to feel the urge again.

We'll see what happens this weekend. I'm looking forward to it.      

Eagle Nationals Rained Out

You have to ask why? 

The far right tire is at the edge of the infield, the 'berm'. Water is standing on the track. It's at least a foot deep at the edge of the track.

For fans who don't know, there is a spring that runs under the track and exits outside of turn three. In short, no where to pump the water.

A rain date has not been scheduled, but TBJ promotions is working on a possible reschedule.

Bummer. This race is a good one. Hope to see it rescheduled this year.

The New Eagle Raceway

Saturday I took my first trip to the races this season, and visited the weekly show at Eagle. It’s the first season in nearly 20 years where the 360 Sprinters were not part of the weekly program. For people like me who grew up around the Nebraska 360 Scene, it’s a bit jarring when I walked into the pits.

Who are these guys?

Let's go back 16 years. Yeah, that long. 

In 1997 when Craig Cormack took over Eagle from the Beecham family, the track was billed for that first year as “The New Eagle Raceway.” That was the official name of the track for the season. 

It was fitting: the old wood grandstands were being ripped out for concrete and aluminum stadium seating, and a 100,000 watt sound system replaced the monotonic bullhorn speakers. 

There was a definite culture change, a raise in professionalism, and maybe a bit of a high-brow attitude to go along with the polish added to the facility.  

But it was appropriate dress as we sailed into that sea of economic prosperity that closed out the 20^th century. Fans saw the concept of “sports entertainment” being put into action with the sideshow becoming an integral part of the show as a whole. It wasn’t about going to “the races” - it was about going to “Eagle Raceway.” Some decried the “circus” and insisted that the purity of the sport had been somehow compromised. What they didn’t realize was the sport is a circus. 

We heard the howls again in 2006 when Roger Hadan took over Eagle and brought in a different style of entertainment, where the sideshow was bus races and garbage truck jumps.  More affordable classes were brought in to bolster the dwindling car counts of the long-standing 360 Sprint and IMCA Modified classes. The times were changing, and again the setting befitted the state of the nation. 

(I want to make something clear: I’m not looking down my nose at any of this or any of the changes. Frankly, Roger’s hit some home runs that we could’ve only dreamed about before. He reacted to the market and its tastes. I’m not immune. I waxed poetic in this blog about enjoying high-school and early college age kids smack each other chasing a rubber disk on a sheet of ice. The last thing I want when I sit down would be a bleu cheese platter with a glass of Chilean Malbec. I’ll take my domestic beer, thanks.)  

But while the rules stayed the same, the times around us changed and we saw the 360’s car count dwindle to the level we saw when Eagle first brought back the sprint cars to a weekly show, and in some cases – lower.

Long story, debates, internet backbiting, yadda, yadda, yadda...

We enter a new era – the IMCA Racesaver 305’s. Welcome to The NEW Eagle Raceway.

What did I think?

As I said before, they’re different. The sound is what got me first. Not as loud, not that ‘punch in the chest’ when the green flag is dropped. There’s a difference. I noticed it shooting pictures. The cars set in different, the car sets in later, and they don’t have that launch out of the corner.

They are different.

I didn’t say bad. I said different.

Hotlaps were impressive. The sprint cars were the fastest thing out there. But as we hit the heats, I saw a definite a gap between top and bottom in equipment and skill. It still was entertaining. I watched the A feature from the road as I sneaked out early in fear that the oncoming storms would catch me in a Cass County quagmire.

The race was decent. Mike Boston provided the drama, and Clint Benson took the checkers. Shayle Bade can wheel a race car. Her second place finish is only a sign of things to come and for the first time, Eagle will have a ‘winged woman’ holding the first place check. It will be soon.

In the first year of a class, gaps between first and last are bound to happen, and most have never driven a sprint car competitively. I'm sure it happened when the "modified sprints" took to Midwest Speedway in the early 80's, but as eager fans and participants we didn't see it. This will change, and I likened it to when Eagle ran the wingless 360’s in 2008. The drivers were tentative until the final night of racing when they finally started figuring it out. Problem was, fans didn't really care. I think this time, the fans will embrace it.

The learning curve will be shorter for the 305’s. And the class is on solid footing. Getting 17 to show up three nights into the season isn’t shabby. The overall speeds and competitiveness will improve. It will become more refined (and yes, expensive), but maybe it’s more manageable than the 360’s that left. While the class has been given the title as the ‘main event’ by the promoter, it will earn it on its own soon enough.

Outside of that, the A mods are still the best show out there. About anyone who starts that A feature has a legitimate chance of winning. But if you want to see the future of modified racing, look no further than the gaggle of SportModifieds owning the pits. 47 of them last week. It’s accessible and competitive. Laini Schwartz topped the field, and hats off to her. Wins are earned when you have that deep of a field.

While I’ve had mixed feelings about the SportMod class, one thing I’ve seen is that it is now becoming the entry point for racing at Eagle. It’s a trend I like. I’m not sure of the future of the Hobby Stock. Are we going to start seeing Ford Fusions and Toyota Camrys being converted to a frame for a small-block V8? I don’t know how you even pull it off. Maybe there are more RWD relics out there, but how long does this last? And I think the compacts are still a great way to get under the lights, but as we’ve seen, the FWD cars may not be the best point to learn techniques for the big machines.

Eagle has changed in its 50 years. The track that hosted Hall of Famers is a different racetrack than the one I grew up at. That track’s different than the one I worked for. And this new Eagle Raceway is different than the track Roger took over in 2006.

It's unfair to make any comparison. I haven’t seen anything like it before.

-Jason

Randy "Racetracker" Lawrence 1956-2013

Got some bad news this morning. Randy Lawrence, better known as "Racetracker" died Saturday May 18. The cause of death is not yet known.

Randy was a fixture at tracks around the Midwest for nearly all of his 57 years. I met Randy while working for Eagle Raceway. Randy was a fan, pit crewman, writer, photographer, historian and all around asset to the sport, especially the sprint cars.

Stoked with a wry sense of humor, Randy gave a no-nonsense perspective on the sport and was just a great guy to be around any time at the track, win or lose.

Randy took a break from the scene a few years ago due to health concerns and hadn't made many appearances since. It was a rare night at the track when his name didn't come up at least once in casual conversation.

During the course of my time in racing, there are people who become more than just a friend at the track. Randy was a larger than life character who represented the sport well. He will be missed.

My guess is this Saturday, he's going to see one heck of show. Godspeed, 'Tracker.

Lucas Oil ASCS visits I-80 Speedway Thursday May 23

By Bryan Hulbert, Lucas Oil ASCS (Tulsa, OK) - The I-80 Speedway in Greenwood, Neb. is not for the faint of heart.
At four-tenths of a mile in size, the semi-banked clay oval is among the fastest tracks visited by the Lucas Oil American Sprint Car Series presented by MAVTV American Real.

A regular stop for the Speedway Motors Midwest Region since 2005, the Nebraska based arm of the ASCS Nation will join the Lucas Oil ASCS presented by MAVTV American Real for the single night appearance on Thursday, May 23 in what will ultimately be the Lucas Oil ASCS presented by MAVTV American Real's eighth visit to the Nebraska oval and the Midwest Region's thirtieth.

Seven drivers in as many starts have claimed the Lucas Oil ASCS presented by MAVTV American Real winner's bounty.

Starting in 1996, Gary Wright posted his only victory at the I-80 Speedway on July 28. Three straight days of racing on June 4, 5, and 6, 1997 ended with Bruce Divis, Mike Chadd, and Doug Wolfgang each parking in victory lane.

It wasn't until 2004 that the Lucas Oil ASCS presented by MAVTV American Real again graced the big oval with 2001 National Champion Zach Chappell winning on June 10.

Victory belonged to Brian Brown on August 3, 2005 before another stretch saw the National Tour absent until 2012 when Danny Lasoski rocketed to the win on May 24 in the Mark and Parker Burch backed No. 1m.

Already tested in 2013 on Friday, April 4 and Saturday, April 5 with the season opener for the Speedway Motors Midwest Region, Jack Dover and Gregg Bakker each garnered victories with Dover earning his fourth, and Bakker his first at the I-80 Speedway in Midwest Regional competition.

Thursday, May 23 at the I-80 Speedway in Greenwood, Neb. is slated to begin at 7:15 P.M. (CT) with grandstand gates opening at 5:30 P.M.

Grandstand admission is set a $22 with kids 6-12 admitted for $5. Children 5 years and under are allowed into the grandstands for free. The Thursday night card will also include Super Late Models, Ty's Outdoor B Mods and ARR Towing and Recovery Hornets.

More information on the I-80 Speedway can be found at http://www.i-80speedway.com or by calling (402) 342-3453.

Nebraska 360 Series Launches Website

The Nebraska 360 Sprint Series has launched their new website. Check it out here:

Nebraska 360 Sprint Series

ASCS Midwest Update

From Chuck Zitterich

 

Speedway Motors ASCS Midwest Region Update...

 

Reminder #1 - I-80 Speedway practice this Thursday 6:00pm thru 9:30PM.

 

Reminder #2 - All ASCS race events in 2013 require BOTH rear tires to be Hoosiers. No exceptions

Speedway Motors Midwest Region lights up at I-80 Speedway

Bryan Hulbert - TULSA, Okla. (April 1, 2013) After a long Midwest winter, the coming of Spring signals the start of dirt track racing in the Midwest and with it, the start of the 2013 Speedway Motors Midwest Region season.

Marking the ninth season for the Speedway Motors backed region, the 2013 opener will be the two-day Tighton Tools Spring Meltdown at the four-tenths mile I-80 Speedway in Greenwood, Neb on Friday, April 5 and Saturday, April 6 with practice on Thursday, April 4.

A favorite of the Midwest drivers, the I-80 Speedway will offer a $2,500 payday to the winner each night and will combine the Speedway Motors Midwest Region with the CBC/MLRA Super Late Models and well as varied classes of Modifieds with B-Mods Friday and A-Mods on Saturday.
Jack Dover enters the 2013 season as the defending champion of the Speedway Motors Midwest Region. The 2012 season was Dover’s third Midwest triumph, and second consecutive title ahead of Jordan Boston.

Going into a track that has both rewarded and punished the Springfield driver, Dover’s final win of the 2012 season that clinched his third title came at the I-80 Speedway on night one of the Fall Brawl. Earlier that season however, a horrific crash at the I-80 Speedway ended Dover’s Lucas Oil ASCS National Tour bid and resulted in his returning to the Midwest Region. Dover will again utilize Roush/Yates power inside an Eagle Motorsports Chassis.
Looking forward to the opening weekend, Thursday’s practice will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 9:30 P.M. All drivers are advised to provide their own push vehicle. Practice will be $20 for drivers and $10 for all others. The grandstands will be open with free admission but with limited, if no, facilities available.

Friday, April 5 and Saturday, April 6 admission will be $22 each night with kids 6-12 years of age admitted for $5. Kids 5 years and younger will be allowed into the grandstands for free.
Start times from the Tighton Tools Spring Meltdown will see Friday’s card beginning at 7:15 P.M. with gates opening at 5:30 P.M. Saturday’s time will see a start time of 5:55 P.M. with gates opening at 4:30 P.M.

For more information regarding the Tighton Tools Spring Metldown and events for the Speedway Motors Midwest Region at the I-80 Speedway, log onto http://www.i-80speedway.com or call (402)-342-3453.

The 2013 season marks the twenty-second year of sanctioning Sprint Car racing for the American Sprint Car Series, which brings the best of Sprint Car racing to dozens of different tracks throughout the nation and into Canada. Anchored by the Lucas Oil American Sprint Car Series presented by MAVTV American Real, ASCS also consists of eight different Regions throughout the nation.
Additional information regarding the American Sprint Car Series is available at www.ascsracing.com as well as Twitter (@LucasOilASCS) and Facebook. News and information can also be sent to you with the ASCS E-News by texting ASCS to 22828 with any mobile device.

Nebraska 360 Meeting Set for March 27

From Nebraska 360 Sprints

We know everyone is sick of meetings and would rather be racing or working on the car getting ready to go racing, but we need to have one more meeting that is real important that all attend. We are meeting next Wednesday, March 27th at Davidson Plumbing and Welding in Waverly at 7:00. To get there, go to the stop light on Highway 6 and go North across the railroad tracks and go 4 blocks, it will be located on the West (left) side of the street. Please give either Dennis or myself a call if you're unable to attend the meeting.

See you next week, thanks.

Dennis Parker 402-677-3757
Randy Palmer 402-483-1974

Beatrice Spring Nationals March 14-16

Beatrice Speedway will host Spring Nationals March 14 - 16.

Thursday, March 14 - Test & Tune: 6-9 PM Pits $10 Grandstands are FREE

Friday, March 15 - Races Start 7pm Hot Laps 6pm, featuring IMCA Modified; SportMod; Stock and Hobby Classes Pits $25 Pits open at 4:30pm
Grandstand: $14 Adults Kids 6-10 $5
5 & Under are FREE

Saturday, March 16 - Races start 6pm Hot Laps 5pm, featuring IMCA Modified; Sport Mod; Stock; Hobby and Sport Compact Classes Pits open 2:30pm Pits $25 Grandstand $14 Adults Kids 6-10 $5 5 & Under FREE

Download a flyer at www.beatricespeedway.com

ASCS Spring Meltdown Coming to I-80

Friday, April 5

ASCS Sprint Cars $2,500 To Win
CBC/MLRA Super Late Models $2,000 To Win |
B Mods $500 To Win
Racing at 7:15 PM

Saturday, April 6
ASCS Sprint Cars $2,500 To Win
CBC/MLRA Super Late Models $3,000 To Win
A Mods $1,000 To Win
Racing at 5:55 PM

For More Information, Visit www.I-80Speedway.com or Call (402) 342-3453

The promotional flyer is below. Click to enlarge. 

Nebraska 360 Sprints release schedule

From Nebraska 360 Sprints


Below is the Nebraska 360 Sprints Schedule including the ASCS Midwest Schedule (please note: The Nebraska 360 Sprint races are NOT ASCS sanctioned races). We hope to have the tentative races finalized as soon as possible.

2013 Nebraska 360 Sprints Schedule (with ASCS mixed )
April 5th (Friday) I-80 Speedway Greenwood, NE( ASCS)
April 6th (Saturday) I-80 Speedway Greenwood, NE (ASCS)
April 13th (Saturday) Kramer Car Show, Kramer, NE (NE 360)
April 27th (Saturday) Butler County Speedway Rising City, NE ( NE. 360)
May 18th (Saturday) Butler County Speedway Rising City, NE (NE 360)
May 23rd (Thursday) I-80 Speedway Greenwood, NE ( ASCS National Race)
May 24th (Friday) Junction Motor Speedway McCool Junction, NE (ASCS)
June 1st (Saturday) Eagle Raceway Eagle NE (ASCS National Race)
June 22nd (Saturday) Butler County Speedway Rising City, NE (NE 360)
July 8th (Monday) Boone County Speedway Albion, NE (NE 360)
July 18th (Thursday) I-80 Speedway Greenwood, NE support for SLMR (Silver Dollar Nationals) (NE 360)
July 20th (Saturday) Butler County Speedway Rising City, NE (NE 360)
July 24th (Wednesday) Crawford County Speedway Denison, IA. County Fair (NE 360)
August 17th (Saturday) Mid Nebraska Speedway Doniphan, NE (NE 360 and NCRA Co-sanctioned)
Sept 1st (Sunday) I-80 Speedway Greenwood, NE support for SLMR late model show (NE360)
Sept 6th (Friday) Adams County Speedway Corning, IA (ASCS)
Sept 7th (Saturday) Junction Motor Speedway McCool, NE. (ASCS)
Sept 8th (Sunday) Eagle Raceway Eagle, NE (ASCS)
Sept20 (Friday ) I-80 Speedway Greenwood, NE. (ASCS)
Sept 21 (Saturday) I-80 Speedway Greenwood, NE. (ASCS)


Tentative or possible dates
June 9th (Sunday) @ I-80 Speedway Greenwood, NE Support for WoO Sprints (NE 360)
August 13th (Tue) Junction Motor Speedway McCool Junction, NE WoO Sprints (NE 360)
TBD Junction Motor Speedway, McCool Junction, NE (NE 360 Sprints)

Nebraska 360 Sprints to hold Meeting

From Nebraska 360 Sprints

Until we get a Facebook page set up, please let this serve as notice the Nebraska 360 Sprints will be having a meeting at 7:00 p.m. next Wednesday, January 16th at the One Eyed Dog Saloon in Eagle, NE. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss our upcoming race season and would like all interested parties (car owners, drivers, team representatives, promoters and potential sponsors) to attend this meeting. This is a private meeting so please, disinterested parties need not attend.

I-80 Speedway announces 2013 Schedule

From I-80 Speedway

The I-80 Speedway near Greenwood, Nebraska has released its exciting 2013 racing schedule which should include something for everybody. Highlighting the schedule will be the Third Annual Silver Dollar Nationals from July 18 thru 20. The Lucas Oil/MLRA co-sanctioned Super Late Model 80 lap feature will pay $27,000 to win and $1,300 to start. The USMTS returns to run as a companion class on July 18 & 20 with two complete Central Region races.

Returning to I-80 for the first time in several years will be the SLS promoted World of Outlaws on Sunday, June 9. An interesting shift on the schedule is the moving of the annual Alphabet Soup race to Friday, June 28 so that it does not conflict with the Show-Me 100. In its place on Sunday, May 26 will be perhaps one of the most interesting evenings of the year at I-80, the Charlie Clark Memorial.

But this year's Charlie Clark Memorial should have added fireworks. First, the SLMR will be running a special $2,022 to win, $2,222 for second, etc. program. But that's not all. While the traditional 44 lap A mod feature with a five minute break at 22 laps has been retained, this year, both 22 lap segments of the A Mod feature will pay $2,022 to win. In addition, during the break the top 22 finishers in the first segment will be reversed, with the winner of the first segment starting 22nd.

Other special events at I-80 include; the season opening Spring Meltdown on April 5 & 6 featuring the ASCS Midwest Sprint Cars, MLRA/CBC Late Models, A Mods and B Mods, the Bugeater Bash on April 12 & 13, the ASCS National Sprint Cars come calling at I-80 on Thursday, May. The USMTS will return on Sunday, August 11 with a Chase for the Casey's Cup Race. The exciting Midwest Fall Brawl will return to I-80 on September 20 & 21 with the SLMR joining the action on September 21. Finally, the traditional Cornhusker Classic will bring the season to a close on October 11, 12 & 13.

As always there will be the NASCAR Whelen All-American Racing Series featuring six NASCAR classes including; Super Late Models, A Mods, B Mods, Grand Nationals, ProAm/Stock Cars & Hornets.



April
Fri 5 SPRING MELTDOWN, MLRA/CBC, ASCS Midwest Sprints, Non Sanctioned
B Mods 7:15
Sat 6 SPRING MELTDOWN, MLRA/CBC, ASCS Midwest Sprints, Non Sanctioned
A Mods 5:55
Fri 12 BUGEATER BASH, Non Sanctioned A Mods, B Mods, Grand Nationals,
Pro Ams, Hobby Stocks, Hornets 7:15
Sat 13 BUGEATER BASH, Non Sanctioned A Mods, B Mods, Grand Nationals,
Pro Ams, Hobby Stocks, Hornets 5:55
Fri 27 NASCAR Weekly Racing Series 7:15

May
Fri 3 NASCAR Weekly Racing Series 7:15
Fri 10 NASCAR Weekly Racing Series 7:15
Fri 17 No Races
Thu 23 ASCS NATIONAL SPRINT CARS, Sanctioned NASCAR Super Late Models,
B Mods and Hornets 7:15
Sun 26 CHARLIE CLARK MEMORIAL, Non Sanctioned A Mods, B Mods & Hobby Stocks
Plus SLMR 5:55 pm
Fri 31 NASCAR Weekly Racing Series 7:15

June
Fri 7 NASCAR Weekly Racing Series 7:15
Sun 9 SLS Promotions Presents the World of Outlaws Sprint Cars, Unsanctioned
B Mods 7:00 Qualifying
Fri 14 NASCAR Weekly Racing Series 7:15
Fri 21 NASCAR Weekly Racing Series 7:15
Fri 28 ALPHABET SOUP RACE, MLRA/CBC/MARS, Non Sanctioned A Mods, B Mods &
Hornets 7:15

July
Fri 5 NASCAR Weekly Racing Series 7:15
Fri 12 NASCAR Weekly Racing Series 7:15
Thu 18 SLMR/CDM, Nebraska 360 Sprints & Unsanctioned B Mods. SILVER
DOLLAR NATIONAL PRACTICE 7:15`
Fri 19 SILVER DOLLAR NATIONALS-LUCAS OIL/MLRA, USMTS Central
Region 8 pm
Sat 20 SILVER DOLLAR NATIONALS-LUCAS OIL/MLRA, USMTS Central Region 8pm
Fri 26 NASCAR Weekly Racing Series 7:15

August
Fri 2 NASCAR Weekly Racing Series 7:15
Sun 11 USMTS Hunt for the Casey's Cup, Unsanctioned B Mods, Hobby Stocks &
Hornets 5:55
Fri 16 NASCAR Weekly Racing Series 7:15

September
Sun 1 ALLSTAR CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY, NASCAR Weekly Racing Series,
Plus SLMR & Nebraska 360 Sprints 5:55
Fri 20 MIDWEST FALL BRAWL, ASCS Midwest Sprints, Non Sanctioned B Mods,
Grand Nationals 7:15
Sat 21 MIDWEST FALL BRAWL, ASCS Midwest Sprints, SLMR & GOTRA 7:15

October
Fri 11 CORNHUSKER CLASSIC, Non Sanctioned Complete Show with features 7:15
Sat 12 CORNHUSKER CLASSIC, SLMR, Non Sanctioned Complete Show with features
5:55
Sun 13 CORNHUSKER CLASSIC, SLMR, Non Sanctioned Complete Show with Features
5:55

ASCS 2013 Midwest Region Schedule

The American Sprint Car Series - Midwest Region - released their tentative 2013 schedule. This year's schedule is less aggressive than year's past, with only 12 events. Most races will take place at I-80 Speedway and Junction Motor Speedway with Corning, IA and Fairmont Raceway in Minnesota making an appearance. Gone are the Missouri races, but there are 3 combined MW/National Tour races on the schedule.
 
I wouldn't be surprised to see a race added and another fall off - as often happens. I'd also be curious to see if the newly-reopened Butler County Speedway makes an appearance on the schedule, as well as any other events with the former Eagle Raceway 360 sprints.

Either way, it's good for fans of 360 sprints at Eagle as they'll have several places to see the class after being dropped by Eagle. And, it's good to see that the two premier events on the schedule are making a return at Eagle.

I would argue that this makes for a good, manageable travel schedule for the sprint fan on a budget. A few roadtrips could add some spice, and one weekend a month (save for September) doesn't hurt.

APRIL
(Opening Weekend Double-header)
5 - FRIDAY * I-80 SPEEDWAY - GREENWOOD, NE  *  Midwest Regional
6 - SATURDAY *  I-80 SPEEDWAY - GREENWOOD, NE  *  Midwest Regional

MAY
(Memorial Weekend Double-header)
23 - THURSDAY * I-80 SPEEDWAY - GREENWOOD, NE  *  National & Midwest Regional
24 - FRIDAY * JUNCTION MOTOR SPEEDWAY - MCCOOL JUNCTION, NE  *  Midwest Regional

JUNE
(Eagle Nationals)
1 - SATURDAY * EAGLE RACEWAY * EAGLE, NE  *  National & Midwest Regional

JULY
6 - SATURDAY * I-90 SPEEDWAY * HARTFORD, SD  *  National & Midwest Regional

AUGUST
30 - FRIDAY * FAIRMONT RACEWAY * FAIRMONT, MN  *  National & Midwest Regional

SEPTEMBER
(Nebraska Cup Triple-header)
6 - FRIDAY * ADAMS COUNTY SPEEDWAY  *  CORNING, IA  *  Midwest Regional
7 - SAT * JUNCTION MOTOR SPEEDWAY - MCCOOL JUNCTION, NE  *  Midwest Regional
8 - SUNDAY * EAGLE RACEWAY - EAGLE, NE  *  Midwest Regional  *  ($5000 to win)
(Fall Brawl featuring the Wild Wing Shoot-Out)
20 - FRIDAY * I-80 SPEEDWAY - GREENWOOD, NE  *  Midwest Regional
21 - SATURDAY * I-80 SPEEDWAY - GREENWOOD, NE  *  Midwest Regional

Thoughts on the Eagle RaceSaver Sprint Meeting

I wanted to, but was unable to attend the RaceSaver meeting this past weekend, but Eagle Raceway did a good job of summarizing the events, enough for me to draw an opinion.


- Surprised to see the 360’s running restricted motors not being able to run for track points. I totally understand regional/national IMCA points, but I think that participation may be improved if they could run for a title. On the other hand, there would be a lot of red faces if a restricted 360 won the track title.


- The purse structure is a lot more egalitarian, and I like that. I’ve argued for this before, and I think it will help reduce some of the mid-season broke grumbles.


- Here’s one thing that surprised me...in light of our recent presidential election, I noticed that some of the more vocal people in favor of limited government, and vehemently against various “redistribution” plans seem to have no problem demanding that “The Man,” in this case the promoter of a certain track should be forking out more of his money for their hobby. Capitalism for the racer’s wallet...socialism for the promoter’s? Regardless of one's political views, the contradiction is obvious.


Now, it’s been that way forever in all forms of racing, but don’t discount the role of self-interest in the demise of the 360’s at Eagle, and CART, IMCA, and IndyCAR (well, not yet), etc. etc.


- To the point above, the racer and promoter are in two different situations, at least when the track is privately owned. If you can’t afford to race, you don’t go. If the owner can’t pay the bills, there’s no track. The racer has more flexibility. Oh, and if you have to race to pay the bills to get the car going...that’s your problem, not the track’s.


- Eagle’s running a two-day IMCA RaceSaver Nationals at the end of the season, my guess is it replaces the Nebraska Cup. (Update: Eagle Raceway has the Nebraska Cup - for 360 sprints - on schedule for 9/8/13.) If you can tie this in pre- or post- Boone Supernationals, and if just 10% of the alleged 600 RaceSaver sprints show up, you could have a back-gate bonanza. My preference would be for the week after Knoxville, prior to football season, if possible. (RaceSaver Nationals are tentatively scheduled for 8/31 and 9/1 2013, likely replacing the Labor Day Shootout)


- I do like the fact that Eagle stated the sprints will be the ‘featured class.’ I think it’s good to establish the pecking order of this class, and leave no doubt as to where they are going forward.


“Where was Roger before?!?!” He was there for seven seasons. OK, six and a half since after July, the 360’s were a ‘dead class rolling.’ If it can’t work after that time, when does it work? The point of diminishing returns had been met. The biggest killer was the economy, and if Roger was able to bring back the jobs and credit that supported this expensive class all these years, he would be president. He’s not. He’s a business owner of a racetrack. That’s all.

Eagle Raceway: Notes from the RaceSaver Sprint Meeting

From Eagle Raceway

Sunday, November 4, 2012

- There will be at least 2 practice dates before the first show for Racesaver Sprints only... More may be added. The 2 dates that we have reserved as of now for this are Saturday, April 6, 2013, and Saturday, April 13, 2013.

- Purse Structure: The same total purse that was given to the 360 sprints in 2012 will be given to the RaceSaver Sprints in 2013, except it will be distributed more evenly. The purse will be guaranteed for 2 years. Non-qualifiers will receive $100. To view the new purse structure, please visit the rules section of our (Eagle Raceway's) website: (click here to view) http://www.eagleraceway.com/EagleRaceway/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/2013-rules2.pdf

- Point Fund- There is a minimum $5000 point fund in place already. There will also be a point fund from IMCA.

- There will be 17 weekly races in 2013 at Eagle Raceway

- IMCA RaceSaver Nationals will be held at Eagle Raceway at the end of the season in 2013. It will be a Saturday and Sunday Show. The purse for this is not designed yet.

- You must have an IMCA membership License to race. Cost of Membership- $100. This provides insurance, monthly newsletter, and track points fund.

- There will be a phase in period for 360s. Anyone not conforming to the RaceSaver Rules may run their car at Eagle Raceway for purse ONLY, as long as they put a "track provided" 1 and 1/16 restrictor on top of stacks and use RaceSaver legal Valve Springs. (This may change if it is not equal competition)

- To Run for track, regional, and national points, you must conform to all IMCA RaceSaver Rules. The Phase in cars for 2013 will not receive IMCA points. They will only receive track points for lineup procedures.

- Sprints will be the premier class in 2013. They will run last for heats, and Features. We want all sprint drivers to be recognized by face. There will be many driver autograph sessions, and other things done for all Sprint drivers to interact with the crowd weekly.

- There will be possible sanctioning at other tracks for special events.

Q and A with French Grimes (RaceSaver Rep)

Can you run any size wing/ wing angle?
You may run any size wing, at any angle... However it will not be cockpit adjustable.

Why 35 durometer RR tire?
Regional director or Track director may pick the tire... Tracks should decide based on surface etc... (Roger is doing more research... The Tire durometer will probably change)

How do you go about getting engine sealed? When do you do it? Where etc...?
Your regional RaceSaver Tech will seal your engine (Roger Hadan is this Region's Tech) You must call your regional inspector to make an arrangement to do so. Roger Hadan's phone number is 402-238-2595 if you need to make an arrangement.
The Engine must be sealed before the your first race. Try to get the crank weighed ahead of time by inspector before you build so that the tech can make his mark on it if the crank is close to minimum weight.
Engine will be presented with 1 head off. Valves will be weighed. Heads will be checked for RaceSaver Stamp and serial numbers and all other inspections will be done before it is sealed.
Then the cars will be teched weekly at the track's discretion.

These are the notes I thought were important. If you have any notes you would like to add to this that you took from the meeting. Please feel free to post below. Also If you have any other questions about RaceSaver rules etc. French Grimes or Roger Hadan can answer them.
Roger- 402-238-2595
French- 540-923-4541

Contingencies For Midwest Fall Brawl

Via ASCS Midwest

Plenty of Contingencies for the Midwest Fall Brawl

There will be plenty of contingency money at stake at the Midwest Fall Brawl at I-80 Speedway on Friday, September 21 & Saturday, September 22. The ASCS Midwest Sprint Car Series will be closing out its 2012 racing season with complete programs each night paying $2,500 win and $300 to start.

In addition, there will be plenty of contingency awards for the Sprinters. Hot Rod Paintless Dent Repair is paying $1,000 of the $1,400 King of the Hill purse with the winner receiving $500. Hot Rod Paintless Dent Repair is also sponsoring the Hard Charger Award which pays $750 each night. Searsboro Telephone Company has posted $1,200 for a reverse point fund for drivers finishing 6th thru 15th in total points for the two nights, with 6th receiving $60 and 15th receiving $200. Finally, Electrical Systems is paying $300 each night in a Podium Draw.

On Friday night unsanctioned B Mods will join the Sprint Cars with the winner receiving $700. The race will be part of the I-80/Adams County Top Ten Challenge in conjunction with Adams County Speedway's "Tradition" on Saturday, September 22. A reverse point fund has been set up by the two tracks with the driver who finishes first in total points for the two nights receiving $50 and the 10th place driver receiving $200. Starky's Bar & Grill will be paying $250 to the B Mod Hard Charger and Industrial Electric Motors & Total Winding Supplies will pay $200 in a Podium Draw.

On Saturday night, unsanctioned Grand Nationals will be racing for $700 to win. They also have contingencies with Motion Industries paying $250 for the Hard Charger Award and Industrial Electric Motors & Total Winding Supplies paying $200 in a Podium Draw.

The Good Old Time Racing Association (GOTRA) will also be racing on Saturday night. Pits open at 4 pm with Grandstands opening at 5:30 pm and racing at 7:15 pm. Grandstand Admission is $15 per night or you can purchase a two day ticket for $15 if you call (402)-342-3453 thru Monday, September 17. Juniors (6-12) are $5 with 5 and under free. Pit Passes will be $30. For more information, visit www.i-80speedway.com or call (402)-342-3453.

Midwest Fall Brawl King of the Hill

Via ASCS Midwest

The Midwest Fall Brawl Sprint Car King of the Hill will feature drivers from the top 12 in 2012 season points from the ASCS Midwest, Eagle/Nebraska, Knoxville Raceway (both 360 or 410's as one category) and Invaders (those drivers who are not in the top 12 in any of the above standings). Each night the highest finishing driver in the feature from those four categories will advance to the King of the Hill. If Friday should rain out, we will take the top two in each category from Saturday nights feature to the King of the Hill. Top 12 in each category are listed below:

All drivers not included in the above lists are considered Invaders

Several drivers are on the list for both the ASCS Midwest and another category. The ASCS Midwest Region selection is chosen first. If a driver on more than one list qualifies, he must take the ASCS Midwest selection first. (ie. If Trevor Grossenbacher were to win on Friday night, he would be an ASCS representative, even though he is higher in Eagle points. If Jordan Boston were to win the race then he would be the ASCS Midwest Representative and if Grossenbacher finished second he would be the Eagle/Nebraska representative).

The first round will pair the two from ASCS Midwest, then the two from Eagle/Nebraska points, then the two from Knoxville and finally the two Invaders. The second round will feature the ASCS Midwest winner .vs. Eagle/Nebraska winner and then the Knoxville winner .vs. the Invader winner. Then the two winners will meet for the King of the Hill title.

Lane choice in the first round will go to the driver lower in points for each classification. In the second round, Eagle/Nebraska and Knoxville winners will get lane choice and in the final round lane choice will go to the driver who finished the lowest in Saturday night's feature.

The winner of the King of the Hill receives $500, second $200. Drivers eliminated in the second round receive $150 with drivers eliminated in the first round receiving $100.

ASCS Midwest Championship Weekend at I-80

Speedway Motors ASCS Midwest Region

Midwest Fall Brawl Double-Header!
Friday Sept. 21st * Saturday Sept. 22nd
I-80 Speedway * Greenwood, NE

$2500 to win each night!
* $750 Hard Charger Each Night!
* (8) Car King of the Hill $500 to win!
* Special point fund for total points position 6th thru 15th!
* A drawing for a $300 bonus to (1) driver
who finishes 2nd thru 5th each night!

Speedway Motors ASCS Midwest Championship Weekend
For more info: Call Chuck Zitterich 605-212-2408

Nebraska Cup Thoughts

This Sunday I attended my last race of the season, the 2012 Nebraska Cup. With the fate of the 360’s sealed as a weekly show (done), I felt that I needed to make it out to the race. A nice afternoon with a cool evening led to a fast track and racy track with good races as Jason Johnson three-peated and walked out with not only the winner’s share of $5,000 but every cent of the lap leader money as he mastered all 30 circuits starting from the pole position. It was a good show all around. Some unfortunate accidents as both Don Droud Jr. and Tige Jensen broke axles sending them on rough tumbles. Jensen was dominating his heat race before his crash. Mike Boston got on his head on the opening lap of the A in a nowhere-to-go accident resulting from chaos down the front stretch.

But Johnson put on the proverbial clinic, with Jack Dover taking another Ford-powered sprinter to second, briefly challenging on a late-race restart.

Some thoughts in and around the track:

- Not sure if it’s the last Nebraska Cup featuring the 360 Sprints. I’ve heard that there will be a few 360 sprint races at Eagle, but under the ASCS Midwest banner. The annual Eagle Nationals is also expected to return, probably as another ASCS National Tour event.

- The “50th Anniversary” 305-cubic inch sprinter made several circuits of the track during intermission. While certainly no slouch, and the car will still be the fastest thing on Saturday nights, the difference was evident. Some over the radio made derisive comments mocking the “not a real sprint car” sentiment and stated “I beg anyone to tell the difference!” I could, easily. It was not subtle. They were noticeably quieter and slower. A sprint car, yes. But different. After several months away during the offseason a casual fan may not be able to tell next year, but that night it was very evident. The hype from the paid employees was damped a little when they folks upstairs refused to put the car’s lap times on the scoreboard. But I understand given the speeds set during the heats, which included some of the fastest 360’s in the country, combined with the 305 not in ‘race mode,’ maybe the similarities were best left to speculation. No need to fan any flames.

- That said, I wish the 305’s success next year. I also wish the 360 group success as well, with maybe a little more enthusiasm than II had before. Not being privy to all the details, but meetings with representatives from the ASCS Midwest are pointing to a partnership with the sanctioning body as opposed to a separate touring series. There will be some distinctions and group-only incentives. We’ll find out more.

- I tip my hat to the Hobby Stock and Sport Mod groups. Particularly the Hobbies. They put on a very clean show. For all the bumpin’ and grindin’ they do on the track, they find a way to keep the cars straight come feature time. With Eagle being more of a “rhythm” track, the Hobby Stocks have a NASCAR on the super-speedway quality to them. And generally, that race isn’t decided until the late laps. The Sport Mods have gone past their infancy looking like dogs on linoleum to produce some clean racing of their own. But the pegging rev limiters is something I can’t get used to.

- An observation made by push truck driver, friend and fellow wise-cracker Mike Peterson was very astute: what may have relieved the tensions between the Eagle teams and management was...a rainout. Or a couple of them. Let the misery of the past week die off. But each (hot) weekend, the tempers and bad blood continued to maintain their heat. It was an interesting take because three people, from three different teams said something similar - and unsolicited from me. The constant weekly schedule took a toll on their wallets, their personal lives, their desire to be there. Couple this with the back-gate promoter mentality of needing to have the doors open every week to the pit-pass-paying masses or to the premier class drawing the front gate and you have a grind that takes out even the most serious racer. Another reason I dislike the concept of the back gate nature of the sport. I’m looking at you RPM. I’ve always thought a break would help. It’s getting a promoter willing to turn off that money spigot that’s the problem. On the other hand, burn ‘em out and that well runs dry.

- More talk, but under-the-breath statements suggest there may be more than a few of the local 360 guys willing to run with the 305’s at Eagle, either with restrictors, or going to purchase a 305 motor entirely. In some cases the thought of rebuilding a 360 vs. buying a new 305 is leaning in the 305’s favor. I’m not expecting a mass defection, but there may be more familiar faces at the track than we are led to believe next season. The factor most often cited - and the trump card in Roger’s hand is: they get to race close to home (and their sponsors). We’ll see how it turns out. 

Until the next time. 

-Jason