The new www.beatricespeedway.com launched recently.
It's a big improvement over last year's site, with more media, photos and news. Really good work. I hope to make it down there for the Spring Nationals, as I've grown fond of shooting down there.
Check it out.
Showing posts with label other racing news. Show all posts
Showing posts with label other racing news. Show all posts
Friday, February 18, 2011
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame Names 2010 Inductees
LINCOLN, Neb. (May 12, 2010) -- The Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame is
pleased to announce inductees for 2010. The event will honor Nebraskans with
an outstanding history of involvement in auto racing. The Induction Ceremony
will be held on Friday, October 15, at the Lincoln Firefighters Reception
Hall at 241 Victory Lane in Lincoln, NE.
Ticket information for the 2010 Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame Induction
Ceremony will be available soon.
The 2010 Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame inductees include Gene Barnett,
Lincoln, NE., Merwyn "Mert" Dunker, Fremont, NE., Bryon "Speed" Hinkley,
Elba, NE., Al Humphrey, Giltner, NE., Wayne Lewis, Lincoln, NE. and Bob
Woodhouse, Blair, NE.
Gene Barnett
Lincoln, Nebraska's Gene Barnett had a long and distinguished career in
motorsports. As a participant, he competed in county fair events around
central Nebraska prior to World War II. When racing started at Capitol Beach
in the early 1950s, Gene was invaluable working as a promoter, flagman, pit
steward, photographer and just about any other job that needed to get done.
Soon, Barnett's services were sought by other tracks throughout the region
as well. After Capitol Beach closed, his regular gig was Midwest Speedway in
north Lincoln, but he still helped with other facilities and also worked for
National Speedways, Inc.
Merwyn 'Mert' Dunker
Mert Dunker was born in Fremont, NE in 1937. Growing up, "stock" was never
good enough as he even customized his bicycle as a youth, and later became a
mechanical engineer. In 1957, his life changed after joining Omaha's
Roadstars Car Club and winning his first award for his custom '31 Ford
pickup. His career as a starter came from being in the right place at the
right time when the race promoter handed him the flags after the designated
starter failed to show. From there, he established himself with the NHRA,
flagging the starts across the country in the era before the now ubiquitous
"Christmas Tree" lights. In the meantime, Dunker established himself as a
top official on the show car circuit and is a noted collector of small scale
cars. Also a drag racer and writer, Dunker has done it all and continues
flagging old-timers races to this day.
Byron 'Speed' Hinkley
Like many Nebraskans of the time, this Elba native honed his mechanical
skills on the farm and cut his teeth on the dusty half- miles and fairground
tracks in Nebraska and Kansas in the late 1910s. Following his family to
California in 1920, Hinkley soon established himself on the 5/8 and
mile-long tracks of California, where he became one of the legendary Ascot
Speedway's early heroes, winning many races, and holding the track record
for an extended period. His last win came in 1931, a 60-lap contest at San
Jose. He passed away December 31, 1989 at the age of 91.
Al Humphrey
Born in 1953 and starting his racing career in the early 1970s, Humphrey
became a fixture of Midwest late model racing, showing up to take on and
beat the big boys, at times with just a skeleton pit crew and a modest
trailer. At his peak, Humphrey was the man to beat at Mid-Nebraska Speedway
where he won a total of five track championships. He took his winning ways
elsewhere, claiming track championships at Red Cloud's Speed Bowl,
Lexington, and I-80 Speedway. He won the inaugural Spec (now Super) Late
Model Racing series season championship in 2008. Humphrey is a life-long
Nebraskan and currently farms near Giltner, NE.
Wayne Lewis
Wayne Lewis was born in 1941 in Rulo, NE. He honed his mechanical skills on
the family farm as a youngster, then grew up to work full time as an auto
mechanic. In the early 1960s Lewis began building race engines and raced at
drag strips across the region. He gave up driving to concentrate on customer
engines, eventually setting up his own shop. Lewis' engines saw success on
the track, with his motors winning championships at Beatrice, Eagle and
Lincoln's Midwest Speedway. Wayne is currently a NHRA assistant tech
director and still works his magic at Lincoln's Speedway Motors.
Bob Woodhouse
A success on the track and in the business world, Woodhouse's early love
affair with the automobile led him to choose a career with Ford Motor
Company over teaching. The Montana native left Ford and ran a chain of
dealerships rooted in Blair, NE. Woodhouse began a successful SCCA career
behind the wheel in the 1970s, winning championships in regional and
divisional series. In 2006, at the age of 60, Woodhouse took a podium finish
in the SPEED World Challenge event at Sebring International Raceway, and
finished sixth in the driver standings while still running his dealerships
full time. His Woodhouse Performance team claimed three victories in the
SPEED World Challenge series with veteran driver Tommy Archer in 2008. He
now heads a group working to elevate the status of the SCCA Pro Racing World
Challenge.
The purpose of the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame is to perpetuate the
memory of these individuals who have brought lasting fame to the state of
Nebraska through their efforts in auto racing.
Nominees to the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame must have been a resident
of the state for at least two years and must be retired for at least four
years from the discipline for which they are being honored. Active
participants in the sport will be considered if they are at least 55 years
of age and have been with the sport for at least 30 years.
All candidates must have made positive contributions to the sport of auto
racing on a local and regional level and go on to some national prominence.
Anyone wishing to nominate a person to the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame
can do so by submitting the person's name, with a list of their
accomplishments in a short bio to: The Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame,
Inc., 5527 S. 20th St., Lincoln, NE 68512. You can also call 402-421-2266,
or e-mail your nomination to Joe Orth at jorth@narhof.com
The Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame is located inside the Museum of
American Speed at 340 Victory Lane on the Speedway Motors complex in
Lincoln, Neb.
The Museum of American Speed hours: May through September, two-hour guided
tours begin at 2 p.m., Monday through Friday. October through April,
two-hour guided tours begin at 2 p.m. every Friday. Admission is $10 to tour
the museum.
For more information about the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame please
visit www.narhof.com
pleased to announce inductees for 2010. The event will honor Nebraskans with
an outstanding history of involvement in auto racing. The Induction Ceremony
will be held on Friday, October 15, at the Lincoln Firefighters Reception
Hall at 241 Victory Lane in Lincoln, NE.
Ticket information for the 2010 Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame Induction
Ceremony will be available soon.
The 2010 Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame inductees include Gene Barnett,
Lincoln, NE., Merwyn "Mert" Dunker, Fremont, NE., Bryon "Speed" Hinkley,
Elba, NE., Al Humphrey, Giltner, NE., Wayne Lewis, Lincoln, NE. and Bob
Woodhouse, Blair, NE.
Gene Barnett
Lincoln, Nebraska's Gene Barnett had a long and distinguished career in
motorsports. As a participant, he competed in county fair events around
central Nebraska prior to World War II. When racing started at Capitol Beach
in the early 1950s, Gene was invaluable working as a promoter, flagman, pit
steward, photographer and just about any other job that needed to get done.
Soon, Barnett's services were sought by other tracks throughout the region
as well. After Capitol Beach closed, his regular gig was Midwest Speedway in
north Lincoln, but he still helped with other facilities and also worked for
National Speedways, Inc.
Merwyn 'Mert' Dunker
Mert Dunker was born in Fremont, NE in 1937. Growing up, "stock" was never
good enough as he even customized his bicycle as a youth, and later became a
mechanical engineer. In 1957, his life changed after joining Omaha's
Roadstars Car Club and winning his first award for his custom '31 Ford
pickup. His career as a starter came from being in the right place at the
right time when the race promoter handed him the flags after the designated
starter failed to show. From there, he established himself with the NHRA,
flagging the starts across the country in the era before the now ubiquitous
"Christmas Tree" lights. In the meantime, Dunker established himself as a
top official on the show car circuit and is a noted collector of small scale
cars. Also a drag racer and writer, Dunker has done it all and continues
flagging old-timers races to this day.
Byron 'Speed' Hinkley
Like many Nebraskans of the time, this Elba native honed his mechanical
skills on the farm and cut his teeth on the dusty half- miles and fairground
tracks in Nebraska and Kansas in the late 1910s. Following his family to
California in 1920, Hinkley soon established himself on the 5/8 and
mile-long tracks of California, where he became one of the legendary Ascot
Speedway's early heroes, winning many races, and holding the track record
for an extended period. His last win came in 1931, a 60-lap contest at San
Jose. He passed away December 31, 1989 at the age of 91.
Al Humphrey
Born in 1953 and starting his racing career in the early 1970s, Humphrey
became a fixture of Midwest late model racing, showing up to take on and
beat the big boys, at times with just a skeleton pit crew and a modest
trailer. At his peak, Humphrey was the man to beat at Mid-Nebraska Speedway
where he won a total of five track championships. He took his winning ways
elsewhere, claiming track championships at Red Cloud's Speed Bowl,
Lexington, and I-80 Speedway. He won the inaugural Spec (now Super) Late
Model Racing series season championship in 2008. Humphrey is a life-long
Nebraskan and currently farms near Giltner, NE.
Wayne Lewis
Wayne Lewis was born in 1941 in Rulo, NE. He honed his mechanical skills on
the family farm as a youngster, then grew up to work full time as an auto
mechanic. In the early 1960s Lewis began building race engines and raced at
drag strips across the region. He gave up driving to concentrate on customer
engines, eventually setting up his own shop. Lewis' engines saw success on
the track, with his motors winning championships at Beatrice, Eagle and
Lincoln's Midwest Speedway. Wayne is currently a NHRA assistant tech
director and still works his magic at Lincoln's Speedway Motors.
Bob Woodhouse
A success on the track and in the business world, Woodhouse's early love
affair with the automobile led him to choose a career with Ford Motor
Company over teaching. The Montana native left Ford and ran a chain of
dealerships rooted in Blair, NE. Woodhouse began a successful SCCA career
behind the wheel in the 1970s, winning championships in regional and
divisional series. In 2006, at the age of 60, Woodhouse took a podium finish
in the SPEED World Challenge event at Sebring International Raceway, and
finished sixth in the driver standings while still running his dealerships
full time. His Woodhouse Performance team claimed three victories in the
SPEED World Challenge series with veteran driver Tommy Archer in 2008. He
now heads a group working to elevate the status of the SCCA Pro Racing World
Challenge.
The purpose of the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame is to perpetuate the
memory of these individuals who have brought lasting fame to the state of
Nebraska through their efforts in auto racing.
Nominees to the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame must have been a resident
of the state for at least two years and must be retired for at least four
years from the discipline for which they are being honored. Active
participants in the sport will be considered if they are at least 55 years
of age and have been with the sport for at least 30 years.
All candidates must have made positive contributions to the sport of auto
racing on a local and regional level and go on to some national prominence.
Anyone wishing to nominate a person to the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame
can do so by submitting the person's name, with a list of their
accomplishments in a short bio to: The Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame,
Inc., 5527 S. 20th St., Lincoln, NE 68512. You can also call 402-421-2266,
or e-mail your nomination to Joe Orth at jorth@narhof.com
The Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame is located inside the Museum of
American Speed at 340 Victory Lane on the Speedway Motors complex in
Lincoln, Neb.
The Museum of American Speed hours: May through September, two-hour guided
tours begin at 2 p.m., Monday through Friday. October through April,
two-hour guided tours begin at 2 p.m. every Friday. Admission is $10 to tour
the museum.
For more information about the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame please
visit www.narhof.com
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Special Fund Created to Help Holliman Heal
(Jason: I want to keep this up at the top for a while - check below for updated content)
Jetmore, Kan. (November 11, 2009) - On July 25,2009 Tadd Holliman, driver
of the #23R 360 Series Sprint Car was involved in a devastating racing
accident at Eagle Raceway in Lincoln, Neb. Holliman, of Beaver Lake, Neb.,
suffered six broken ribs, a bruised lung, concussion, and a broken right
upper arm.
Since the accident, Holliman has been undergoing multiple medical treatments
as well as extensive physical therapy and has been unable to return to work.
To help defray his medical expenses a special fund has been established
within the Steve King Foundation. Any funds donated to the foundation and
earmarked for Holliman will be provided directly to him and his family.
Donations are being accepted through the Steve King Foundation to help the
Holliman family cover the medical expenses. All contributions are
tax-deductible.
Donations can be made online at
www.SteveKingFoundation.org or mailed
to
Steve King Foundation
24583 NW 208 Rd
Jetmore, KS 67854
Please note Holliman on the check.
About Tadd Holliman
Holliman is a third generation driver and was often seen competing against
his father, Terry, at Eagle Raceway, his home track. He was voted the "most
improved driver" at Eagle Raceway in the mid 1990s. His all time favorite
race is the Chili Bowl, each January in Tulsa, Okla. Tadd and his wife
Darla have four children, ranging from 7 to 20 years old.
About The Steve King Foundation
The Steve King Foundation was formed to help individuals involved in dirt
track racing across the country by providing financial assistance to
drivers, pit crew members, racing officials, track operations personnel or
the immediate families of those individuals who are injured, struggling with
a severe illness or die. The foundation, a 501(c)3 will also contribute to
organizations and facilities dedicated to improving the safety of the sport
when additional funds are available.
More information can be found at
www.SteveKingFoundation.org
Monday, December 29, 2008
Dominguez and Eagle team up for point fund program
From Gary Dominguez
Beginning January 1st, 2009, any real estate transaction closed through Gary Dominguez of Woods Bros. Realty will result in $100 contributed to a general point fund at Eagle Raceway per transaction. This fund will be distributed over all four classes of racers at Eagle, and will be in addition to any current point funds in place.
In order to receive this donation, Gary’s client should mention it at first meeting with him. The transaction MUST close in order for the donation to be made. The donation will be made in the name of the client, and announced during the racing season. This donation will be made solely through Gary Dominguez of Woods Bros. Realty, and will in no way affect the normal costs incurred by the client
With interest rates low, inventory high and stable pricing, now is the best time to buy a home and help our sport in one big shot! Interest rates have reached an all-time low. Some have even touched the 4.5% range. If you are thinking of selling, the new rates will put more qualified buyers on the market for your home. If you are buying, you could quite possibly save hundreds of dollars on your monthly payment.
Don’t let the national gloom and doom in the real estate market hinder you from owning the American Dream. In the Midwest, we are faring quite well compared to other parts of the country. Nebraska ranks only 45th out of 50 states in foreclosure rates. A lot of it can be attributed to our conservative, hardworking, Midwestern values.
Gary will be available again this year to notarize parental consent forms for minors in the pits. Please remember that all signers MUST bring valid picture I.D., and MUST NOT sign the form unless Gary (or any other General Notary) is present to witness the signature.
For more details, call Gary at 402 432-6316, or e-mail him at gary.dominguez@woodsbros.com
Beginning January 1st, 2009, any real estate transaction closed through Gary Dominguez of Woods Bros. Realty will result in $100 contributed to a general point fund at Eagle Raceway per transaction. This fund will be distributed over all four classes of racers at Eagle, and will be in addition to any current point funds in place.
In order to receive this donation, Gary’s client should mention it at first meeting with him. The transaction MUST close in order for the donation to be made. The donation will be made in the name of the client, and announced during the racing season. This donation will be made solely through Gary Dominguez of Woods Bros. Realty, and will in no way affect the normal costs incurred by the client
With interest rates low, inventory high and stable pricing, now is the best time to buy a home and help our sport in one big shot! Interest rates have reached an all-time low. Some have even touched the 4.5% range. If you are thinking of selling, the new rates will put more qualified buyers on the market for your home. If you are buying, you could quite possibly save hundreds of dollars on your monthly payment.
Don’t let the national gloom and doom in the real estate market hinder you from owning the American Dream. In the Midwest, we are faring quite well compared to other parts of the country. Nebraska ranks only 45th out of 50 states in foreclosure rates. A lot of it can be attributed to our conservative, hardworking, Midwestern values.
Gary will be available again this year to notarize parental consent forms for minors in the pits. Please remember that all signers MUST bring valid picture I.D., and MUST NOT sign the form unless Gary (or any other General Notary) is present to witness the signature.
For more details, call Gary at 402 432-6316, or e-mail him at gary.dominguez@woodsbros.com
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Lincoln Scores SCCA Solo Championships
By RICHARD PIERSOL/Lincoln Journal Star
Wednesday, Nov 12, 2008 - 12:12:54 pm CST
Lincoln has scored a win in motor sports.
Wednesday, Nov 12, 2008 - 12:12:54 pm CST
Lincoln has scored a win in motor sports.
More than a thousand drivers are expected to come to Lincoln for almost a week next September to compete in a national "autocross" championship meet on a concrete course west of the Lincoln Airport.
After calling Topeka, Kan., home for the last 14 years, the Tire Rack Solo National Championships will move to Lincoln next year, at the Lincoln Air Park site.
Read the rest here:
http://www.journalstar.com/news/business/doc491afb4c81d58287251908.txt
- - - - -
Jason: Credit Jeff Maul of the Lincoln Convention and Visitors bureau with helping with this big get. Jeff's a big race fan, a regular fixture at the Eagle Nationals and has many times recommended the short tracks of the area to visiting business and convention guests. This is good news for Lincoln and Midwest racing in general.
You want to talk cars? Try one THOUSAND competitors. According to the SCCA, this is the largest event of its kind in the world.
As I've already seen, somebody may cry foul and bring up the drag strip stalemate or ask why support can't be lent to the dirt tracks. Different situation, different place, different timing. Anything that will bring the motorsports spotlight to Lincoln and SE Nebraska where the show's contributions will be recognized and appreciated for its economic impact to the community is a good thing.
Good job to all!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Lewis to Retire
From 9 Racing:
LAGUNA BEACH, CA — After 29 years and 10 national championships, Steve Lewis is retiring from the USAC National Midget Championship Series.
“There are several factors contributing to my decision,” said Lewis. “I would like to devote my time and energy to help our son achieve his dream of becoming a professional race car driver. Also, as PERFORMANCE RACING INDUSTRY Trade Show and Magazine have grown over the years, my daily responsibilities are as demanding as ever. So, it just seemed like I had arrived at a point where I needed to close this wonderful chapter in my life.
“It has been a spectacular 29-year run for our team. It all began in the fall of 1979 when Stan Fox drove my first midget in a USAC National event at Ascot Park. The last race for the Nine Racing, Inc midget team will be the 68th running of the Thanksgiving Grand Prix at Toyota Speedway of Irwindale on November 27, 2008,” explained Lewis. “I’m glad I’ve lived so much of my life in racing. You’ll never meet a more extraordinary bunch of people than racers.”
“Entering USAC midget racing for the first time in 2006 as a partner with Steve Lewis’ Nine Racing organization was a great opportunity for Toyota,” said Gary Reed, vice president of Special Racing Projects for TRD, USA. “Steve and Nine Racing gave our new midget engine program immediate respectability right out of the box, and he and all the Nine Racing associates totally dedicated themselves to making sure that our Toyota midget engine debut was a success. We are extremely proud of the history we have made with Steve and the successes jointly shared by Nine Racing, Ed Pink Racing Engines and Toyota/TRD. Steve is a class act and one of the true gentlemen in our sport. We wish him the best of luck in the future and look forward to seeing Loretta and him at the track for many years to come.”
In addition to the 10 USAC National Midget Series championships; the Nine Racing team has logged over 130 feature wins in the famed #9, #19, and #91 midgets. Stan Fox, Tony Stewart, Kenny Irwin, Jr, Kasey Kahne, Jason Leffler, JJ Yeley, Mike Bliss, Stevie Reeves, Dave Darland--these are just some of the drivers who have earned wins in the famous #9 race cars of Nine Racing.
Lewis has been a lifetime midget fan from the age of 8 years old. He entered the business of auto racing when his friend Don Edmunds suggested the idea of owning and operating a midget race car. Edmunds built a four-bar AUTORESEARACH midget that was powered by an Autocraft VW engine, and this car made it’s debut at Ascot Park in the fall of 1979 with driver Stan Fox at the wheel. That night Stan finished fourth in the semi main, and that is how it all started.
Drivers earning championships for Nine Racing Inc have been: 1993 Stevie Reeves, 1995 Tony Stewart, 1996 Kenny Irwin Jr., 1998 Jason Leffler, 1999 Jason Leffler, 2000 Kasey Kahne, 2001 Dave Darland, 2002 Dave Darland, 2003 J.J. Yeley, 2004 Bobby East.
A variety of engines have powered Lewis-owned midgets through the years. In the beginning, it was VW AutoCraft engines, then there was a brief stint with Pontiac power. In 1992, the switch was made to Gaerte Engines and the 1993 and 1995 Champions were powered by Earl Gaerte’s creations. The Nine Racing team started using Ed Pink Fords in early 1996, and all the wins and championships through 2005 were with Ed Pink Ford power. In 2006, the Ed Pink Toyota midget engine made it’s debut at the 2006 Copper Classic in grand form with driver Dave Steele winning the race. From the late 1980s to 2004, Bob East managed the Nine Racing, Inc racing program. Under his watchful eye, numerous race wins occurred and midget driving champions were developed. Many of the Nine Racing, Inc drivers from this period went on to excel in upper level series.
Crew chief Kelly Drake will remain on board and will operate and manage the Brownsburg, Indiana Nine Racing, Inc shop facility. “Over the past three years, we have built and outfitted our shop to reflect the state of the art for grassroots racing endeavors, and we’ll develop a plan to fully utilize this asset,” stated Steve Lewis. The newly developed Nine Racing website will be kept current as well, and the “history portal” will be updated to include photographs and bios of all the drivers that drove the number 9 cars. “We have filing cabinets full of wonderful photographs and I feel it would be a fun project to get these photos out of the cabinets and onto the website for everyone see and enjoy,” exclaimed Lewis.
He also expressed his profound appreciation for the Nine Racing sponsors. “ASE and Oakley have been terrific. Other sponsors who played an important role in Nine Racing include such great racing brands as Eibach, Weld Wheel, Earl’s Performance Plumbing, Performance Friction and VHT,” said Lewis. “We have a great team of sponsors, and I want to thank them for their contributions.”
Michael Lewis, son of Loretta and Steve Lewis, is currently in his senior year of high school, and already has a long history in racing, including karting in Europe and America, Focus Midgets and quarter midgets. This year, Michael Lewis won the IKF Region 7 championship in the TaG Light class. Steve and Michael are currently working toward putting together a program in the Formula BMW Americas series for 2009.
Lewis’ company, Performance Racing Industry, organizes the largest racing trade show in the world, with its 21st edition to be held in Orlando this December. Approximately 1,400 companies exhibit, taking up 1,000,000 square feet, with 40,000 racing industry professionals attending from more than 50 countries. PRI magazine is the monthly business magazine for the worldwide racing marketplace.
“I started watching midget racing from the grandstands in the early 1950’s at the Orange Show Speedway in San Bernardino, California, and was captivated as a young boy with the excitement of watching midgets race on a tight, dusty dirt track. I have had the wonderful opportunity to be able to participate in a sport that I truly love. I have had rewarding experiences that I never could have dreamed of, made friends along the way that are truly special to me because of my involvement in this great sport. Now, it is time for me to head back to the grandstands, grab a hot dog and maybe even a beer and continue to watch the best drivers in the world race midgets on dusty dirt tracks as well as the high speed pavement tracks.”
For more information on the history of Nine Racing, go to www.nineracing.com.
LAGUNA BEACH, CA — After 29 years and 10 national championships, Steve Lewis is retiring from the USAC National Midget Championship Series.
“There are several factors contributing to my decision,” said Lewis. “I would like to devote my time and energy to help our son achieve his dream of becoming a professional race car driver. Also, as PERFORMANCE RACING INDUSTRY Trade Show and Magazine have grown over the years, my daily responsibilities are as demanding as ever. So, it just seemed like I had arrived at a point where I needed to close this wonderful chapter in my life.
“It has been a spectacular 29-year run for our team. It all began in the fall of 1979 when Stan Fox drove my first midget in a USAC National event at Ascot Park. The last race for the Nine Racing, Inc midget team will be the 68th running of the Thanksgiving Grand Prix at Toyota Speedway of Irwindale on November 27, 2008,” explained Lewis. “I’m glad I’ve lived so much of my life in racing. You’ll never meet a more extraordinary bunch of people than racers.”
“Entering USAC midget racing for the first time in 2006 as a partner with Steve Lewis’ Nine Racing organization was a great opportunity for Toyota,” said Gary Reed, vice president of Special Racing Projects for TRD, USA. “Steve and Nine Racing gave our new midget engine program immediate respectability right out of the box, and he and all the Nine Racing associates totally dedicated themselves to making sure that our Toyota midget engine debut was a success. We are extremely proud of the history we have made with Steve and the successes jointly shared by Nine Racing, Ed Pink Racing Engines and Toyota/TRD. Steve is a class act and one of the true gentlemen in our sport. We wish him the best of luck in the future and look forward to seeing Loretta and him at the track for many years to come.”
In addition to the 10 USAC National Midget Series championships; the Nine Racing team has logged over 130 feature wins in the famed #9, #19, and #91 midgets. Stan Fox, Tony Stewart, Kenny Irwin, Jr, Kasey Kahne, Jason Leffler, JJ Yeley, Mike Bliss, Stevie Reeves, Dave Darland--these are just some of the drivers who have earned wins in the famous #9 race cars of Nine Racing.
Lewis has been a lifetime midget fan from the age of 8 years old. He entered the business of auto racing when his friend Don Edmunds suggested the idea of owning and operating a midget race car. Edmunds built a four-bar AUTORESEARACH midget that was powered by an Autocraft VW engine, and this car made it’s debut at Ascot Park in the fall of 1979 with driver Stan Fox at the wheel. That night Stan finished fourth in the semi main, and that is how it all started.
Drivers earning championships for Nine Racing Inc have been: 1993 Stevie Reeves, 1995 Tony Stewart, 1996 Kenny Irwin Jr., 1998 Jason Leffler, 1999 Jason Leffler, 2000 Kasey Kahne, 2001 Dave Darland, 2002 Dave Darland, 2003 J.J. Yeley, 2004 Bobby East.
A variety of engines have powered Lewis-owned midgets through the years. In the beginning, it was VW AutoCraft engines, then there was a brief stint with Pontiac power. In 1992, the switch was made to Gaerte Engines and the 1993 and 1995 Champions were powered by Earl Gaerte’s creations. The Nine Racing team started using Ed Pink Fords in early 1996, and all the wins and championships through 2005 were with Ed Pink Ford power. In 2006, the Ed Pink Toyota midget engine made it’s debut at the 2006 Copper Classic in grand form with driver Dave Steele winning the race. From the late 1980s to 2004, Bob East managed the Nine Racing, Inc racing program. Under his watchful eye, numerous race wins occurred and midget driving champions were developed. Many of the Nine Racing, Inc drivers from this period went on to excel in upper level series.
Crew chief Kelly Drake will remain on board and will operate and manage the Brownsburg, Indiana Nine Racing, Inc shop facility. “Over the past three years, we have built and outfitted our shop to reflect the state of the art for grassroots racing endeavors, and we’ll develop a plan to fully utilize this asset,” stated Steve Lewis. The newly developed Nine Racing website will be kept current as well, and the “history portal” will be updated to include photographs and bios of all the drivers that drove the number 9 cars. “We have filing cabinets full of wonderful photographs and I feel it would be a fun project to get these photos out of the cabinets and onto the website for everyone see and enjoy,” exclaimed Lewis.
He also expressed his profound appreciation for the Nine Racing sponsors. “ASE and Oakley have been terrific. Other sponsors who played an important role in Nine Racing include such great racing brands as Eibach, Weld Wheel, Earl’s Performance Plumbing, Performance Friction and VHT,” said Lewis. “We have a great team of sponsors, and I want to thank them for their contributions.”
Michael Lewis, son of Loretta and Steve Lewis, is currently in his senior year of high school, and already has a long history in racing, including karting in Europe and America, Focus Midgets and quarter midgets. This year, Michael Lewis won the IKF Region 7 championship in the TaG Light class. Steve and Michael are currently working toward putting together a program in the Formula BMW Americas series for 2009.
Lewis’ company, Performance Racing Industry, organizes the largest racing trade show in the world, with its 21st edition to be held in Orlando this December. Approximately 1,400 companies exhibit, taking up 1,000,000 square feet, with 40,000 racing industry professionals attending from more than 50 countries. PRI magazine is the monthly business magazine for the worldwide racing marketplace.
“I started watching midget racing from the grandstands in the early 1950’s at the Orange Show Speedway in San Bernardino, California, and was captivated as a young boy with the excitement of watching midgets race on a tight, dusty dirt track. I have had the wonderful opportunity to be able to participate in a sport that I truly love. I have had rewarding experiences that I never could have dreamed of, made friends along the way that are truly special to me because of my involvement in this great sport. Now, it is time for me to head back to the grandstands, grab a hot dog and maybe even a beer and continue to watch the best drivers in the world race midgets on dusty dirt tracks as well as the high speed pavement tracks.”
For more information on the history of Nine Racing, go to www.nineracing.com.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Junction Motor Speedway Manager Nunnenkamp Passes
Junction Motor Speedway manager Barb Nunnenkamp passed away after a bout
with cancer Wednesday morning October 29th.
with cancer Wednesday morning October 29th.
Services will be held Saturday, November 1, 2008 at 10:30AM at St. Mark's
Evangelical Lutheran Church, 301 S. Saunders Ave. Sutton, Nebraska
* * *
Jason: In my dealings with Barb regarding the ESTS and afterward with this
website, I found Barb to be diligent, detailed, hard working, straightforward and
willing to listen. She was completely devoted to the success of Junction
Motor Speedway.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Sponsorship Seminar Saturday Nov. 1
From Gary Dominguez:
This week is the last chance to sign up for the Seminar to help you get and keep sponsors for your racing machine. It is this Saturday at 10 AM at the Auto Transmatic Shop in Bennington. Meat trays and chips will be served courtesy of Roger and Michelle Hadan. Sign up by clicking the link below, and click on the blue button on the left side for the sponsorship seminar.
Seminar signup here
This is open to all racers of all tracks! Cost is $10 per person. I will need a final head count by Thursday October 30th. For more details, email me at gary.dominguez@woodsbros.com
* * *
Here's some words from me, Jason:
If you are even remotely concerned about money for next year's racing, you really need to attend this seminar.
Unless you're living under a rock or have been practicing for the role of Helen Keller in the community play, you know economic times are getting tough and money won't be spread so liberally - as if it was last season.
If you think that purses are going to go up, you are mistaken. Yeah, maybe Knoxville's looking to bump up their purse but everyone else is going to let them be the first to try. Gas may be going down, but the cost of parts isn't, and remember all the complaining of $2.50/gal gas the previous year as being expensive.
Anyone knows that to move up to the next level, one has to get out of their comfort zone. Maybe you go to a new track, maybe you take on tougher competition, maybe you start investing time and money into making the car go faster instead of just maintaining.
And when the money's tight it takes more than asking your buddy or your boss for a few bucks.
For less than the price of a case of after-the-race beer, (or for only a few in the stands when you run out of money to race), you can get knowledge to reach more people, with more opportunities to get you the money you need to keep going or get ahead. And this knowledge will stick with you your whole racing career.
This week is the last chance to sign up for the Seminar to help you get and keep sponsors for your racing machine. It is this Saturday at 10 AM at the Auto Transmatic Shop in Bennington. Meat trays and chips will be served courtesy of Roger and Michelle Hadan. Sign up by clicking the link below, and click on the blue button on the left side for the sponsorship seminar.
Seminar signup here
This is open to all racers of all tracks! Cost is $10 per person. I will need a final head count by Thursday October 30th. For more details, email me at gary.dominguez@woodsbros.com
* * *
Here's some words from me, Jason:
If you are even remotely concerned about money for next year's racing, you really need to attend this seminar.
Unless you're living under a rock or have been practicing for the role of Helen Keller in the community play, you know economic times are getting tough and money won't be spread so liberally - as if it was last season.
If you think that purses are going to go up, you are mistaken. Yeah, maybe Knoxville's looking to bump up their purse but everyone else is going to let them be the first to try. Gas may be going down, but the cost of parts isn't, and remember all the complaining of $2.50/gal gas the previous year as being expensive.
Anyone knows that to move up to the next level, one has to get out of their comfort zone. Maybe you go to a new track, maybe you take on tougher competition, maybe you start investing time and money into making the car go faster instead of just maintaining.
And when the money's tight it takes more than asking your buddy or your boss for a few bucks.
For less than the price of a case of after-the-race beer, (or for only a few in the stands when you run out of money to race), you can get knowledge to reach more people, with more opportunities to get you the money you need to keep going or get ahead. And this knowledge will stick with you your whole racing career.
Friday, July 25, 2008
The secret story behind 'Kids Night' at Eagle Raceway
There's a great article in the Lincoln Journal Star about the Bryan family and the driving force behind this weekend's Kid's Night
Here's the link to the article:
The secret story behind 'Kids Night' at Eagle Raceway
Here's the link to the article:
The secret story behind 'Kids Night' at Eagle Raceway
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
USMTS Events at Allison, West Union To Raise Money For Parkersburg Tornado Victims
From USMTS
PARKERSBURG, Iowa (June 6) – When the United States
Modified Touring Series travels into Northern Iowa next
week, race fans will not only have the opportunity to
witness some of the best Modified racers in America,
they'll also be helping out families that were devastated
by a tornado on May 25 that left eight people dead and
destroyed more than 200 houses and damaged hundreds of
others.
While race teams from all across America's heartland will
be driving their rigs into the Highway 3 Raceway in
Allison on Wednesday, June 11, residents of the small town
of Parkersburg, located just 12 miles south of Allison,
will still be busy cleaning up after the disaster and
rebuilding their town.
According to news reports, more than half of Parkersburg -
a town of 1,900 people - was destroyed, including several
hundred homes, the city hall and high school. The path of
the tornado that churned through Parkersburg and several
other communities was up to a mile wide. Two additional
people were killed in New Hartford and nearly 70 others
were injured in the region. Debris from Parkersburg was
discovered as far away as LaCrosse, Wis.
USMTS officials invite the residents of Parkersburg to
take a well-deserved night off and come enjoy an evening
at the races on us.
At both the Allison race on Wednesday, and at the Fayette
County Speedway in West Union on Thursday, the USMTS will
donate $2 from every adult grandstand ticket sold to the
Tornado Relief Fund. In addition, every person with a
Parkersburg drivers license will get into the night's
events FREE of charge.
"This is home base for us," said USMTS president and
promoter Todd Staley. "Our hometown and offices are a
short drive west of here in Webster City, and the
heartbeat of the USMTS is in Northern Iowa and Southern
Minnesota."
In addition to the USMTS, Staley also operates the United
States Racing Association (USRA), which sanctions weekly
auto racing at several tracks in the region.
"My family and I drove through Parkersburg last weekend."
Staley added. "The photos you see on the news and the
Internet don't come close to doing justice to the actual
devastation these folks have suffered. Most of our fans,
drivers and their crew members have friends or family from
that area, or know somebody affected by this disaster.
It's our hope that our small contribution to the relief
efforts will have a positive effect on the people of
Parkersburg and the surrounding towns hit by this
tornado."
In addition to donating $2 from every adult grandstand
ticket to the Parkersburg Tornado Relief Fund, race fans
can also pick up $2 off coupons on race day at Casey's
General Stores locations in Allison, Aplington, Cedar
Falls and Clarksville for the Wednesday, June 11, event at
the Highway 3 Raceway, and at Casey's General Stores
locations in Fredericksburg, Oelwein, Ossian and Postville
for the Fayette County Speedway event on Thursday, June
12.
As part of the festivities each race night, drivers will
walk through the grandstands with their helmets and
collect donations from generous race fans. Already,
several sponsors have also pledged to offer financial
contributions during the events, and a handful of drivers
have expressed that they plan to donate their winnings
each night to the relief effort too.
Come out for some great racing for a great cause!
For those who would like to make a donation directly to
the relief fund, call Lincoln Savings Bank toll-free at
866-235-2098 or make checks payable to "LSB
Foundation/Tornado Relief Fund" and mail to one of the
following locations:
Tornado Relief Fund
c/o Lincoln Savings Bank
242 Tower Park Dr.
Waterloo, IA 50701
Tornado Relief Fund
c/o Lincoln Savings Bank
932 Parriott St.
Aplington, IA 50604
At both O'Reilly USMTS National Tour events, pit gates
open at 4:30 p.m. and grandstands open for general
admission seating at 5:30. Hot laps are slated for 6:30
and the mud starts flying at 6:45.
In addition to the thrilling action of the O'Reilly USMTS
National Tour, the racing card will also feature USRA Karl
Chevrolet Stock Cars, USRA Karl Chevrolet B-Mods and USRA
Hobby Stocks for a full night of racing.
Fan favorite Mark Noble and his Miller Lite/Casey's
General Stores Modified will appear at the Casey's
location on Wednesday in Allison at 100 Cherry St. from
1-3 p.m., then again on Thursday in Postville at 164 W.
Tildon St. from 1-3 p.m.
The Highway 3 Raceway is a half-mile semi-banked clay oval
located 0.3 miles north of SR 3 on S. Main St. (at the
Butler County Fairgrounds). More information is available
online at www.highway3raceway.com. The Fayette County
Speedway is a 3/8-mile semi-banked clay oval located 0.9
mile south of US 18 on SR 150, then 0.1 mile east on SR 56
(at the Fayette County Fairgrounds). Visit
www.fayettecofair.com for more information.
The USMTS is celebrating its 10th Anniversary Season in
2008 with many special promotions to show thanks to the
fans, drivers, team members, families and sponsors who
have helped make the USMTS the premier dirt modified
series in the nation.
To learn more about the United States Modified Touring
Series, call the headquarters at (515) 832-7944 or visit
www.usmts.com online for the latest news and information
from the USMTS — America's Hottest Ticket on Dirt.
PARKERSBURG, Iowa (June 6) – When the United States
Modified Touring Series travels into Northern Iowa next
week, race fans will not only have the opportunity to
witness some of the best Modified racers in America,
they'll also be helping out families that were devastated
by a tornado on May 25 that left eight people dead and
destroyed more than 200 houses and damaged hundreds of
others.
While race teams from all across America's heartland will
be driving their rigs into the Highway 3 Raceway in
Allison on Wednesday, June 11, residents of the small town
of Parkersburg, located just 12 miles south of Allison,
will still be busy cleaning up after the disaster and
rebuilding their town.
According to news reports, more than half of Parkersburg -
a town of 1,900 people - was destroyed, including several
hundred homes, the city hall and high school. The path of
the tornado that churned through Parkersburg and several
other communities was up to a mile wide. Two additional
people were killed in New Hartford and nearly 70 others
were injured in the region. Debris from Parkersburg was
discovered as far away as LaCrosse, Wis.
USMTS officials invite the residents of Parkersburg to
take a well-deserved night off and come enjoy an evening
at the races on us.
At both the Allison race on Wednesday, and at the Fayette
County Speedway in West Union on Thursday, the USMTS will
donate $2 from every adult grandstand ticket sold to the
Tornado Relief Fund. In addition, every person with a
Parkersburg drivers license will get into the night's
events FREE of charge.
"This is home base for us," said USMTS president and
promoter Todd Staley. "Our hometown and offices are a
short drive west of here in Webster City, and the
heartbeat of the USMTS is in Northern Iowa and Southern
Minnesota."
In addition to the USMTS, Staley also operates the United
States Racing Association (USRA), which sanctions weekly
auto racing at several tracks in the region.
"My family and I drove through Parkersburg last weekend."
Staley added. "The photos you see on the news and the
Internet don't come close to doing justice to the actual
devastation these folks have suffered. Most of our fans,
drivers and their crew members have friends or family from
that area, or know somebody affected by this disaster.
It's our hope that our small contribution to the relief
efforts will have a positive effect on the people of
Parkersburg and the surrounding towns hit by this
tornado."
In addition to donating $2 from every adult grandstand
ticket to the Parkersburg Tornado Relief Fund, race fans
can also pick up $2 off coupons on race day at Casey's
General Stores locations in Allison, Aplington, Cedar
Falls and Clarksville for the Wednesday, June 11, event at
the Highway 3 Raceway, and at Casey's General Stores
locations in Fredericksburg, Oelwein, Ossian and Postville
for the Fayette County Speedway event on Thursday, June
12.
As part of the festivities each race night, drivers will
walk through the grandstands with their helmets and
collect donations from generous race fans. Already,
several sponsors have also pledged to offer financial
contributions during the events, and a handful of drivers
have expressed that they plan to donate their winnings
each night to the relief effort too.
Come out for some great racing for a great cause!
For those who would like to make a donation directly to
the relief fund, call Lincoln Savings Bank toll-free at
866-235-2098 or make checks payable to "LSB
Foundation/Tornado Relief Fund" and mail to one of the
following locations:
Tornado Relief Fund
c/o Lincoln Savings Bank
242 Tower Park Dr.
Waterloo, IA 50701
Tornado Relief Fund
c/o Lincoln Savings Bank
932 Parriott St.
Aplington, IA 50604
At both O'Reilly USMTS National Tour events, pit gates
open at 4:30 p.m. and grandstands open for general
admission seating at 5:30. Hot laps are slated for 6:30
and the mud starts flying at 6:45.
In addition to the thrilling action of the O'Reilly USMTS
National Tour, the racing card will also feature USRA Karl
Chevrolet Stock Cars, USRA Karl Chevrolet B-Mods and USRA
Hobby Stocks for a full night of racing.
Fan favorite Mark Noble and his Miller Lite/Casey's
General Stores Modified will appear at the Casey's
location on Wednesday in Allison at 100 Cherry St. from
1-3 p.m., then again on Thursday in Postville at 164 W.
Tildon St. from 1-3 p.m.
The Highway 3 Raceway is a half-mile semi-banked clay oval
located 0.3 miles north of SR 3 on S. Main St. (at the
Butler County Fairgrounds). More information is available
online at www.highway3raceway.com. The Fayette County
Speedway is a 3/8-mile semi-banked clay oval located 0.9
mile south of US 18 on SR 150, then 0.1 mile east on SR 56
(at the Fayette County Fairgrounds). Visit
www.fayettecofair.com for more information.
The USMTS is celebrating its 10th Anniversary Season in
2008 with many special promotions to show thanks to the
fans, drivers, team members, families and sponsors who
have helped make the USMTS the premier dirt modified
series in the nation.
To learn more about the United States Modified Touring
Series, call the headquarters at (515) 832-7944 or visit
www.usmts.com online for the latest news and information
from the USMTS — America's Hottest Ticket on Dirt.
Friday, June 06, 2008
I-80 Wants to Help Adams County Speedway
From I-80 Speedway:
As you probably have heard or seen in pictures, Adams County Speedway has caught the brunt of the 2008 storms and is under water. In 2006 a windstorm tore up I-80 Speedway and the ACS staff worked right beside us to help rebuild.
In an effort to help ACS with deductibles and get their facilities back in running order, this Sunday night, June 8, I-80 Speedway will be donating ALL GRANDSTAND PROCEEDS FROM AN IOWA PATRON TO ADAMS COUNTY SPEEDWAY (just show your Iowa drivers license).
As you probably have heard or seen in pictures, Adams County Speedway has caught the brunt of the 2008 storms and is under water. In 2006 a windstorm tore up I-80 Speedway and the ACS staff worked right beside us to help rebuild.
In an effort to help ACS with deductibles and get their facilities back in running order, this Sunday night, June 8, I-80 Speedway will be donating ALL GRANDSTAND PROCEEDS FROM AN IOWA PATRON TO ADAMS COUNTY SPEEDWAY (just show your Iowa drivers license).
Alley's long victory drought led to long victory lap
Todd Henrichs of the Lincoln Journal Star did a nice write up on Billy Alley following his win last Saturday (May 1) in Knoxville.
http://journalstar.com/articles/2008/06/06/sports/doc48488c4f91f84820708088.txt
http://journalstar.com/articles/2008/06/06/sports/doc48488c4f91f84820708088.txt
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Heartland Racing Outreach
Hastings, Nebraska (March 30, 2008) - As we all near the start of a new season, it will also be the restart of a local racing ministry. Heartland Racing Outreach which is now under the direction of Don Francis, will be in attendance at KAM Raceway Park for the 2008 Season. As opportunities open, HRO will expand to be at other area tracks to provide its services.
It is an exciting time as the ministry will be out and about again and providing many of the same services as it had before with a few new oppertunities to provide. To find out more about HRO and see its schedule, you can visit their MySpace Page at www.myspace.com/tbmx923
It is an exciting time as the ministry will be out and about again and providing many of the same services as it had before with a few new oppertunities to provide. To find out more about HRO and see its schedule, you can visit their MySpace Page at www.myspace.com/tbmx923
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Back In Nebraska - Dover Ready To Break The Ice
by Team Dover Media
SPRINGFIELD, Neb. (March 26, 2007) -- Following six ASCS
races in Texas and Oklahoma during the month of March,
Jack Dover will be back in action in his home state of
Nebraska this weekend. Jack and Team Dover Motorsports
will compete in the Ice Breaker Challenge featuring the
Budweiser 360 Sprint Cars on March 29-30 at Eagle Raceway
in Eagle, NE.
In 2007, Dover won the last two feature races atop the 1/3
mile high banked oval at Eagle Raceway. Following a
victory in the Season Finale on August 31, Dover became
the youngest driver to ever claim the Nebraska Cup on
September 7 at the age of seventeen.
Dover will pilot his family owned, 3 D Auto Transport,
Eckley powered Eagle and is looking forward to the weekend
close to home. "We had two great runs at Eagle at the end
of last year." Said Dover. "There will be a lot of good
cars and drivers there for the Ice Breaker, hopefully we
can pick up where we left off in 2007."
Gates open at 3:30pm and racing begins at 5:00pm on
Saturday and Sunday for the Ice Breaker Challenge. Eagle
Raceway is located 12 miles east of Lincoln, NE (2 miles
east of Eagle, NE) on U.S. Highway 34 ('O' Street) or 11
miles south of Interstate 80, exit 420 on Highway 63 to
the intersection of Nebraska Highway 63 and U.S. Highway
34.
Jack and Team Dover Motorsports would like to thank their
2008 Sponsors: 3 D Auto Transport Inc., RMS, Trail
Performance Powder Coating, Thorpes Auto Body, Eckley
Racing Engines, Eagle Chassis, Keizer Aluminum Wheels, ATV
Motorsports, Speedway Motors, Bell Racing, Butler Built
Professional Seat Systems, Design 500 Racewear, FK Rod
Ends, Brown and Miller Racing Solutions, CMET Excavating
and NOS Energy Drink.
For more information about Jack and Team Dover Motorsports
please visit www.teamdover.com
SPRINGFIELD, Neb. (March 26, 2007) -- Following six ASCS
races in Texas and Oklahoma during the month of March,
Jack Dover will be back in action in his home state of
Nebraska this weekend. Jack and Team Dover Motorsports
will compete in the Ice Breaker Challenge featuring the
Budweiser 360 Sprint Cars on March 29-30 at Eagle Raceway
in Eagle, NE.
In 2007, Dover won the last two feature races atop the 1/3
mile high banked oval at Eagle Raceway. Following a
victory in the Season Finale on August 31, Dover became
the youngest driver to ever claim the Nebraska Cup on
September 7 at the age of seventeen.
Dover will pilot his family owned, 3 D Auto Transport,
Eckley powered Eagle and is looking forward to the weekend
close to home. "We had two great runs at Eagle at the end
of last year." Said Dover. "There will be a lot of good
cars and drivers there for the Ice Breaker, hopefully we
can pick up where we left off in 2007."
Gates open at 3:30pm and racing begins at 5:00pm on
Saturday and Sunday for the Ice Breaker Challenge. Eagle
Raceway is located 12 miles east of Lincoln, NE (2 miles
east of Eagle, NE) on U.S. Highway 34 ('O' Street) or 11
miles south of Interstate 80, exit 420 on Highway 63 to
the intersection of Nebraska Highway 63 and U.S. Highway
34.
Jack and Team Dover Motorsports would like to thank their
2008 Sponsors: 3 D Auto Transport Inc., RMS, Trail
Performance Powder Coating, Thorpes Auto Body, Eckley
Racing Engines, Eagle Chassis, Keizer Aluminum Wheels, ATV
Motorsports, Speedway Motors, Bell Racing, Butler Built
Professional Seat Systems, Design 500 Racewear, FK Rod
Ends, Brown and Miller Racing Solutions, CMET Excavating
and NOS Energy Drink.
For more information about Jack and Team Dover Motorsports
please visit www.teamdover.com
2008 Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame Inductees Named
by Randy Lawrence, Media Director
LINCOLN, Neb. (March 26, 2007) -- The Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame is pleased to announce it’s inductees for 2008. The Induction Ceremony will be held on Friday, October 3, at the Lincoln Firefighters Reception Hall at 241 Victory Lane in Lincoln, NE. The event will honor Nebraskans with an outstanding history of involvement in auto racing.
The 2008 Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame inductees will include Joe Fahnstock, Lincoln; Terry Fritsch, Omaha; Bob Nickolite, Lincoln; Joe Orth, Lincoln; John Wilkinson, Lincoln; Charlie Williams, Lincoln and Bill Wrich, Kennard.
Joe Fahnstock
Fahnstock promoted the first midget races in Nebraska in 1935. Joe also promoted races at the Nebraska State Fair from 1932-41 and was an official at many Nebraska tracks.
Terry Fritsch
Fritsch started his racing career in Go-Karts in 1958 at the age of 11. After four years in Karts he turned his sights to drag racing and his first pass was at 104 MPH. Fritsch won two national events in the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), the World Championship in 1966 and the 1969 U.S. Nationals in the A/Comp Eliminator class.
Bob Nickolite
Nicholite started as a flagman for Ed O’Boyle in North Platte and was a race official throughout Nebraska, Kansas and Colorado for many years. Bob was also a driving force in getting the race track at the Nebraska State Fairgrounds built in the 1990s.
Joe Orth
Orth has been a photographer, crew member and a true ambassador to the sport of auto racing in Nebraska. Orth’s career has spanned nearly five decades and he is one of the finest racing photographers in the country. Joe has been the track photographer at Eagle Raceway for many years and his work has graced the pages of Flat Out Magazine and the Paul Oxman Sprint Car Calendar.
John Wilkinson
Wilkinson raced Modifieds and Super Modifieds throughout the 1950s and 1960s winning several track championships. While driving the Williams-Swenson No. 24, Wilkinson won the track championship at Midwest Speedway in 1965 and numerous feature wins.
Charlie Williams
Williams, a car owner teamed with his son-in-law, Gary Swenson to win many races and track championships. With Ray Lee Goodwin at the wheel the Williams-Swenson team won the 1968 Knoxville Nationals, the track championship at the Topeka Fairgrounds in 1970, the Eagle Raceway track championship in 1971 and the 1972 IMCA championship.
Bill Wrich
Wrich began racing in 1954 at the age of 16. Bill has won track championships at Washington County Speedway, Sunset Speedway, Playland Park, Shelby County Speedway and Crawford County Speedway. Wrich also raced with USAC and IMCA during the 1970s. His last feature win came in 2005 taking the Race of Legends at I-80 Speedway, 51 years after the start of his career.
Ticket information for the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be available soon.
The purpose of the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame is to perpetuate the memory of these individuals who have brought lasting fame to the state of Nebraska through their efforts in auto racing.
Nominees to the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame must have been a resident of the state for at least two years and must be retired for at least four years from the discipline they are being honored for. Active participants in the sport will be considered if they are at least 55 years of age and have been with the sport for at least 30 years.
All candidates must have made positive contributions to the sport of auto racing on a local, regional and go on to some national prominence.
Anyone wishing to nominate a person to the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame can do so by submitting the person's name, with a list of their accomplishments in a short bio to: The Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame, Inc., 5527 S. 20th St., Lincoln, NE 68512. You can also call 402-421-2266, or e-mail your nomination to jorth@narhof.com.
The Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame is located inside the Museum of American Speed at 340 Victory Lane on the Speedway Motors complex in Lincoln, Neb.
The Museum of American Speed hours: May through September, two-hour guided tours begin at 2 p.m., Monday through Friday. October through April, two-hour guided tours begin at 2 p.m. every Friday. Admission is $10 to tour the museum.
For more information about the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame please visit www.narhof.com
LINCOLN, Neb. (March 26, 2007) -- The Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame is pleased to announce it’s inductees for 2008. The Induction Ceremony will be held on Friday, October 3, at the Lincoln Firefighters Reception Hall at 241 Victory Lane in Lincoln, NE. The event will honor Nebraskans with an outstanding history of involvement in auto racing.
The 2008 Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame inductees will include Joe Fahnstock, Lincoln; Terry Fritsch, Omaha; Bob Nickolite, Lincoln; Joe Orth, Lincoln; John Wilkinson, Lincoln; Charlie Williams, Lincoln and Bill Wrich, Kennard.
Joe Fahnstock
Fahnstock promoted the first midget races in Nebraska in 1935. Joe also promoted races at the Nebraska State Fair from 1932-41 and was an official at many Nebraska tracks.
Terry Fritsch
Fritsch started his racing career in Go-Karts in 1958 at the age of 11. After four years in Karts he turned his sights to drag racing and his first pass was at 104 MPH. Fritsch won two national events in the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), the World Championship in 1966 and the 1969 U.S. Nationals in the A/Comp Eliminator class.
Bob Nickolite
Nicholite started as a flagman for Ed O’Boyle in North Platte and was a race official throughout Nebraska, Kansas and Colorado for many years. Bob was also a driving force in getting the race track at the Nebraska State Fairgrounds built in the 1990s.
Joe Orth
Orth has been a photographer, crew member and a true ambassador to the sport of auto racing in Nebraska. Orth’s career has spanned nearly five decades and he is one of the finest racing photographers in the country. Joe has been the track photographer at Eagle Raceway for many years and his work has graced the pages of Flat Out Magazine and the Paul Oxman Sprint Car Calendar.
John Wilkinson
Wilkinson raced Modifieds and Super Modifieds throughout the 1950s and 1960s winning several track championships. While driving the Williams-Swenson No. 24, Wilkinson won the track championship at Midwest Speedway in 1965 and numerous feature wins.
Charlie Williams
Williams, a car owner teamed with his son-in-law, Gary Swenson to win many races and track championships. With Ray Lee Goodwin at the wheel the Williams-Swenson team won the 1968 Knoxville Nationals, the track championship at the Topeka Fairgrounds in 1970, the Eagle Raceway track championship in 1971 and the 1972 IMCA championship.
Bill Wrich
Wrich began racing in 1954 at the age of 16. Bill has won track championships at Washington County Speedway, Sunset Speedway, Playland Park, Shelby County Speedway and Crawford County Speedway. Wrich also raced with USAC and IMCA during the 1970s. His last feature win came in 2005 taking the Race of Legends at I-80 Speedway, 51 years after the start of his career.
Ticket information for the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be available soon.
The purpose of the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame is to perpetuate the memory of these individuals who have brought lasting fame to the state of Nebraska through their efforts in auto racing.
Nominees to the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame must have been a resident of the state for at least two years and must be retired for at least four years from the discipline they are being honored for. Active participants in the sport will be considered if they are at least 55 years of age and have been with the sport for at least 30 years.
All candidates must have made positive contributions to the sport of auto racing on a local, regional and go on to some national prominence.
Anyone wishing to nominate a person to the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame can do so by submitting the person's name, with a list of their accomplishments in a short bio to: The Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame, Inc., 5527 S. 20th St., Lincoln, NE 68512. You can also call 402-421-2266, or e-mail your nomination to jorth@narhof.com.
The Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame is located inside the Museum of American Speed at 340 Victory Lane on the Speedway Motors complex in Lincoln, Neb.
The Museum of American Speed hours: May through September, two-hour guided tours begin at 2 p.m., Monday through Friday. October through April, two-hour guided tours begin at 2 p.m. every Friday. Admission is $10 to tour the museum.
For more information about the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame please visit www.narhof.com
Ceremony for the departed at Autograph Day
From Gary Dominguez, Midwest Racers Autograph Day
If you know of anyone in our racing family that has passed away in the past year, please let us know at midwestracers@yahoo.com. This does not have to be a driver or owner. It can be a crew member, fan, track owner, or anybody that has been dedicated to the sport we all love.
We are going to remember all members of the racing family lost this past year by announcing their names and having an engine firing in their honor at Autograph Day.
Autograph Day will take place on Saturday April 5 at Uncle Ron's Wild West Saloon in Lincoln, NE
If you know of anyone in our racing family that has passed away in the past year, please let us know at midwestracers@yahoo.com. This does not have to be a driver or owner. It can be a crew member, fan, track owner, or anybody that has been dedicated to the sport we all love.
We are going to remember all members of the racing family lost this past year by announcing their names and having an engine firing in their honor at Autograph Day.
Autograph Day will take place on Saturday April 5 at Uncle Ron's Wild West Saloon in Lincoln, NE
Monday, February 25, 2008
Midwest Speedway videos
Ryan Tunks, creator of the Midwest Speedway Preservation Society website posted some links to videos from the defunct Midwest Speedway on Dirtdrivers.com. For those unfamiliar, Midwest Speedway sat at the corner of 27th and Superior streets in Lincoln, NE, now home to a Wal-Mart.
While the track hosted everything from supermodifieds to late models, arguably the speedway's biggest claim is being the birthplace of the 360 Sprint class.
While the track hosted everything from supermodifieds to late models, arguably the speedway's biggest claim is being the birthplace of the 360 Sprint class.
For some of us they're great memories, for the newbies - a way to see the 360 Sprint class in its infancy and to watch the IMCA modifieds begin to branch out to other tracks.
Here's the link to the dirtdriver's thread: Midwest Speedway Videos
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
"Hang with Herman" at select USMTS events
Kenny Wallace fans can “Hang with Herman” at select O’Reilly USMTS National Tour events; Proceeds to benefit Victory Junction Gang Camp
SPIRIT LAKE, Iowa — RLD Marketing and Night of Victory are happy to announce that NASCAR driver Kenny Wallace will be participating in five special evenings of “Hang with Herman” while he travels with the O’Reilly USMTS National Tour.
“Hang with Herman” is a special “meet and greet” opportunity at the following dates and tracks on the O’Reilly USMTS National Tour:
Wednesday, June 18 … Park Jefferson Speedway, Jefferson, S.D.
Wednesday, June 25 … Huset’s Speedway, Brandon, S.D.
Wednesday, July 23 … Clay County Speedway, Spencer, Iowa
Tuesday, July 29 … Cresco Speedway, Cresco, Iowa
Wednesday, July 30 … Southern Iowa Speedway, Oskaloosa, Iowa
The evening is an opportunity to meet with NASCAR fan favorite Kenny Wallace, grab an autograph, get a photo taken, ask Kenny some questions, learn about Night of Victory and talk about racing!
“I am very excited about partnering with Night of Victory,” said Wallace, winner of three Most Popular Driver Awards. “I’ve had the opportunity to work with Night of Victory before and they really put together exciting events that benefit a very deserving cause. I hope the fans get excited about coming out to the dirt track early to have some fun hanging out with us before the races.”
The Night of Victory will be held on Sept. 17 at the Deer Creek Speedway in Spring Valley, Minn., to benefit the Victory Junction Gang Camp. A prelude to the 10th Annual Featherlite Fall Jamboree, the event will be a day-long opportunity to reach fans in the Midwest. Throughout the day, the general public will be able to partake in the festivities at the track: they can meet NASCAR team members, see show cars, visit souvenir trailers, purchase merchandise and much more!
The evening will culminate with an autograph session with the NASCAR drivers and personalities, a “match race” with the NASCAR drivers, a catered meal and an auction with over 150 items of racing memorabilia to benefit the Victory Junction Gang Camp.
NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers will be on hand for autographs and photo opportunities.
“While we are expecting 500-700 people to be in attendance for the festivities, that number could easily be in the thousands for the race-fest portion of the day,” said Rachel Dean of RLD Marketing. “We’re excited to have Kenny promoting Night of Victory throughout the summer at the “Hang with Herman” events, and we’re also excited about having our logo on his modified.
“Kenny is a wonderful spokesperson and we’re more than thrilled having him promote our fundraiser for the Victory Junction Gang Camp.”
“Hang with Herman” tickets are $30 per person. Each ticket includes your ticket to the “meet and greet” with Kenny Wallace, your ticket to that evening’s O’Reilly USMTS National Tour race, a great meal and the opportunity to win some great prizes!
To order tickets, please contact Rachel Dean at 712-339-9064 or email her at racheltwait@mchsi.com. Visit www.nightofvictory.com for more information on the “Hang with Herman” and Night of Victory events.
For more information, check out www.nightofvictory.com, www.usmts.com and www.kennywallace.com on the World Wide Web.
To learn more about the United States Modified Touring Series, call the headquarters at (515) 832-7944 or visit www.usmts.com online for the latest news and information from the USMTS — America's Hottest Ticket on Dirt.
SPIRIT LAKE, Iowa — RLD Marketing and Night of Victory are happy to announce that NASCAR driver Kenny Wallace will be participating in five special evenings of “Hang with Herman” while he travels with the O’Reilly USMTS National Tour.
“Hang with Herman” is a special “meet and greet” opportunity at the following dates and tracks on the O’Reilly USMTS National Tour:
Wednesday, June 18 … Park Jefferson Speedway, Jefferson, S.D.
Wednesday, June 25 … Huset’s Speedway, Brandon, S.D.
Wednesday, July 23 … Clay County Speedway, Spencer, Iowa
Tuesday, July 29 … Cresco Speedway, Cresco, Iowa
Wednesday, July 30 … Southern Iowa Speedway, Oskaloosa, Iowa
The evening is an opportunity to meet with NASCAR fan favorite Kenny Wallace, grab an autograph, get a photo taken, ask Kenny some questions, learn about Night of Victory and talk about racing!
“I am very excited about partnering with Night of Victory,” said Wallace, winner of three Most Popular Driver Awards. “I’ve had the opportunity to work with Night of Victory before and they really put together exciting events that benefit a very deserving cause. I hope the fans get excited about coming out to the dirt track early to have some fun hanging out with us before the races.”
The Night of Victory will be held on Sept. 17 at the Deer Creek Speedway in Spring Valley, Minn., to benefit the Victory Junction Gang Camp. A prelude to the 10th Annual Featherlite Fall Jamboree, the event will be a day-long opportunity to reach fans in the Midwest. Throughout the day, the general public will be able to partake in the festivities at the track: they can meet NASCAR team members, see show cars, visit souvenir trailers, purchase merchandise and much more!
The evening will culminate with an autograph session with the NASCAR drivers and personalities, a “match race” with the NASCAR drivers, a catered meal and an auction with over 150 items of racing memorabilia to benefit the Victory Junction Gang Camp.
NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers will be on hand for autographs and photo opportunities.
“While we are expecting 500-700 people to be in attendance for the festivities, that number could easily be in the thousands for the race-fest portion of the day,” said Rachel Dean of RLD Marketing. “We’re excited to have Kenny promoting Night of Victory throughout the summer at the “Hang with Herman” events, and we’re also excited about having our logo on his modified.
“Kenny is a wonderful spokesperson and we’re more than thrilled having him promote our fundraiser for the Victory Junction Gang Camp.”
“Hang with Herman” tickets are $30 per person. Each ticket includes your ticket to the “meet and greet” with Kenny Wallace, your ticket to that evening’s O’Reilly USMTS National Tour race, a great meal and the opportunity to win some great prizes!
To order tickets, please contact Rachel Dean at 712-339-9064 or email her at racheltwait@mchsi.com. Visit www.nightofvictory.com for more information on the “Hang with Herman” and Night of Victory events.
For more information, check out www.nightofvictory.com, www.usmts.com and www.kennywallace.com on the World Wide Web.
To learn more about the United States Modified Touring Series, call the headquarters at (515) 832-7944 or visit www.usmts.com online for the latest news and information from the USMTS — America's Hottest Ticket on Dirt.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
New era for Nebraska sprint pilot Alley
From www.billyalley.com
A new era has begun for Billy Alley and Shane Sterling, as they have teamed up to
become SA Racing. Billy is very excited to announce that Delta Oil will be the primary
sponsor for the upcoming 2008 racing season. “Proud would be the best word to
describe the last couple of weeks. I am very excited and proud to be apart of what is
going on in Lincoln, Nebraska. A lot of hard work has already been set forth in reuniting
the 22,” Billy comments.
“Delta Oil is very excited to partake in the continued success of Billy’s phenomenal
racing career. This commitment solidifies our relationship and we feel will elevate both
of our companies to new standards of excellence,” says Alex Lontayo, Delta Oil
spokesman. “Delta Oil is a primarily European based company, but working towards a
2008 product launch here in the United States,” exclaimed Shane Sterling. “Delta Oil
has very big plans for its United States debut and we’re excited that they will be a part of
Billy’s success and rise to the top of the motor sports world.”
“Billy is an exceptional young man with talent that is unheard of in the sport of racing.
What he has accomplished in his short career is nothing short of amazing. With the
success of Delta Oil overseas, they have come to the United States and chose Billy to
represent their company. With this decision, SA Racing has the full backing of Delta
Oil,” comments Shane Sterling.
SA Racing is also happy to announce the addition of several other prominent sponsors.
Aeroquip has come aboard to be apart of this exciting ride. “Their fittings are some of
the best and lightest in the industry,” says Billy. In addition, JEI Chassis and Wesmar
Racing Engines.
Several other sponsors have joined forces to help the number 22, such as Craig Bolz,
Buckles Brothers, Buss Excavating, Schmit Automotive and McClain Motorsports.
“Without the help of these local business owners, none of this would have happened,”
states Billy.
D’Agostino Racing, out of Ft. Lauderdale, rounds out the list of companies. “It’s hard
not to get involved with a race team that has such a positive history. It would be a poor
decision not to sponsor them.” says owner Derek D’Agostino.
“Racing is something that is universal. We are just proud to represent a global company
that has had success in other racing ventures. With the addition of SA Racing to their
sponsorships, Delta Oil will continue to thrive,” states Shane.
For more information and continued updates please visit Billy’s website at:
www.billyalley.com
A new era has begun for Billy Alley and Shane Sterling, as they have teamed up to
become SA Racing. Billy is very excited to announce that Delta Oil will be the primary
sponsor for the upcoming 2008 racing season. “Proud would be the best word to
describe the last couple of weeks. I am very excited and proud to be apart of what is
going on in Lincoln, Nebraska. A lot of hard work has already been set forth in reuniting
the 22,” Billy comments.
“Delta Oil is very excited to partake in the continued success of Billy’s phenomenal
racing career. This commitment solidifies our relationship and we feel will elevate both
of our companies to new standards of excellence,” says Alex Lontayo, Delta Oil
spokesman. “Delta Oil is a primarily European based company, but working towards a
2008 product launch here in the United States,” exclaimed Shane Sterling. “Delta Oil
has very big plans for its United States debut and we’re excited that they will be a part of
Billy’s success and rise to the top of the motor sports world.”
“Billy is an exceptional young man with talent that is unheard of in the sport of racing.
What he has accomplished in his short career is nothing short of amazing. With the
success of Delta Oil overseas, they have come to the United States and chose Billy to
represent their company. With this decision, SA Racing has the full backing of Delta
Oil,” comments Shane Sterling.
SA Racing is also happy to announce the addition of several other prominent sponsors.
Aeroquip has come aboard to be apart of this exciting ride. “Their fittings are some of
the best and lightest in the industry,” says Billy. In addition, JEI Chassis and Wesmar
Racing Engines.
Several other sponsors have joined forces to help the number 22, such as Craig Bolz,
Buckles Brothers, Buss Excavating, Schmit Automotive and McClain Motorsports.
“Without the help of these local business owners, none of this would have happened,”
states Billy.
D’Agostino Racing, out of Ft. Lauderdale, rounds out the list of companies. “It’s hard
not to get involved with a race team that has such a positive history. It would be a poor
decision not to sponsor them.” says owner Derek D’Agostino.
“Racing is something that is universal. We are just proud to represent a global company
that has had success in other racing ventures. With the addition of SA Racing to their
sponsorships, Delta Oil will continue to thrive,” states Shane.
For more information and continued updates please visit Billy’s website at:
www.billyalley.com
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