developing...
Beatrice Speedway in conjunction with Eagle Raceway is excited to announce a joint point fund. The top ten drivers of IMCA Modifieds, IMCA Hobby Stocks, and IMCA Sport Compacts racing at least seventy-five percent of scheduled and completed race nights at both tracks will be eligible for a total point fund of $4800. Please check back as information will be posted as it becomes available.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Monday, January 26, 2009
NCRA Opens 360 Season with Eagle Icebreaker
PARK CITY, KAN. (January 25, 2009) - On the heels of their year end season
awards banquet, officials with the O'Reilly/National Championship Racing
Association have announced the schedule for their 360 sprint car series,
which will be celebrating 20th season in 2009.
awards banquet, officials with the O'Reilly/National Championship Racing
Association have announced the schedule for their 360 sprint car series,
which will be celebrating 20th season in 2009.
The 360 sprint car division opens the season on Saturday night, March 28, at
Eagle Raceway in Eagle, Nebraska with the running of the tracks "Ice Breaker
Challenge." It will be the only event currently scheduled for the 1/3 mile
highbanked dirt oval.
Second stop on the tour will be the first of three events at the home of the
NCRA, 81 Speedway in Park City, Kansas.
One month later the sprinters get back in action with their first and only
appearance of the season at the Jetmore Motorplex in Jetmore, Kansas on
Saturday night, June 21.
A busy month of July kicks off on Saturday night, July 18, at the beautiful
Dodge City Raceway Park in Dodge City, Kansas. One week later it will be off
to the 53rd Annual Hutchinson Nationals at the Hutchinson Fairgrounds in
Kansas on July 25. Then on Thursday night, July 30 it will be the first and
only appearance of the season at the famed Belleville Highbanks before
heading south down Hwy. 81 to 81 Speedway for a Friday night event to wrap
up the month of July.
Mid-Nebraska Speedway in Doniphan, Nebraska will host the sprints on
Saturday night, August 22 before the Silver Anniversary season ends on
Saturday night, October 3, at 81 Speedway.
While nine dates are scheduled at this time, additional dates are expected
in the coming weeks. To schedule an O'Reilly/NCRA 360 sprint car event, to
climb aboard as presenting sponsor or contingency sponsor for the 2009 race
season, contact the NCRA office (316) 755-1781.
The National Championship Racing Association is entering it's 39th season of
sanctioning dirt track races, this year in five different states in its
sprint car, modified and late model divisions combined. The 2009 race season
will see the series' sprint car division compete for the 20th consecutive
year. To learn more on the history of NCRA, rules, schedules and more, log
on to their official website http://www.ncraracing.org/. To schedule an NCRA
event, climb aboard as contingency partner or for any questions concerning
the series, contact the office (316) 755-1781.
The O'Reilly/NCRA would like to thank the following sponsors and contingency
for their support: O'Reilly Auto Parts, Cherokee Casino - Resort, Hoosier
Racing Tire, Sunoco/Simons Petroleum, Arizona Sports Shirts, Triple X Race
Company, Racetech, Brodix, Vertex Magnetos, Outerwears, KSE, Maxim Chassis,
Saldana Racing Products, Weld Racing Motorsports, Winters Performance, Eagle
Chassis, QA1, Ultra-Shield, Taylor Wires, Auto Meter, Schoenfeld Headers,
Racing Optics and Design 500.
360 Sprint Cars
March 28 Eagle Raceway Eagle, Nebraska May 3 81 Speedway Park City, Kansas
June 21 Jetmore Motorplex Jetmore, Kansas July 18 Dodge City Raceway Park
Dodge City, Kansas July 25 Hutchinson Nationals Hutchinson, Kansas July 30
Belleville Highbanks Belleville, Kansas July 31 81 Speedway Park City,
Kansas Aug 22 Mid-Nebraska Speedway Doniphan, Nebraska Oct 3 81 Speedway
Park City, Kansas
Past NCRA 360 Sprint Car Champions
2008 Mike Peters 2007 Garry Lee Maier 2006 Garry Lee Maier 2005 Garry Lee
Maier 2004 Mike Woodruff 2003 Steve King 2002 Steve King 2001 Dennis Park
2000 C.J. Johnson 1999 Jon Johnson 1998 Jon Johnson 1997 Dennis Park 1996
Dennis Park 1995 Larry Neighbors/Kirby Hagens 1994 Kevin Ramey 1993 Mike
Chadd 1992 Scott Brown 1991 Garry Lee Maier 1990 John Blurton
2009 Rocky Mountain Midget Racing Association Tentative Schedule
2009 Rocky Mountain Midget Racing Association Tentative Schedule
05-02-09 (I-76 Speedway; Ft. Morgan, CO.) ¼ Mile Dirt
05-30-09 (I-76 Speedway; Ft. Morgan, CO.) ¼ Mile Dirt
06-13-09 (I-25 Speedway; Pueblo, CO.) ¼ Mile Asphalt
06-20-09 (Colorado National Speedway; Erie, CO.) 3/8 Mile Asphalt
06-27-09 (Big Country Speedway; Cheyenne, WY.) 1/5 Mile Asphalt
07-04-09 (I-25 Speedway; Pueblo, CO.) ¼ Mile Asphalt
07-18-09 (I-76 Speedway; Ft. Morgan, CO.) ¼ Mile Dirt
07-26-09 (HWY 36 Speedway; Osborn, MO.) 3/8 Mile Dirt “NON-POINTS”
07-27-09 (Butler County Motorplex; Rising City, NE.) 1/3 Mile Dirt
07-28-09 (Junction Motor Speedway; McCool Junction, NE.) 3/8 Mile Dirt
07-29-09 (Junction Motor Speedway; McCool Junction, NE.) 3/8 Mile Dirt
07-31-09 (Belleville High Banks; Belleville, KS.) ½ Mile Dirt “NON-POINTS”
08-01-09 (Belleville High Banks; Belleville, KS.) ½ Mile Dirt “NON-POINTS”
08-08-09 (I-76 Speedway; Ft. Morgan, CO.) ¼ Mile Dirt
08-22-09 (I-25 Speedway; Pueblo, CO.) ¼ Mile Asphalt
08-29-09 (Colorado National Speedway; Erie, CO.) 3/8 Mile Asphalt
09-05-09 (Big Country Speedway; Cheyenne, WY.) 1/5 Mile Asphalt
09-12-09 (I-25 Speedway; Pueblo, CO.) ¼ Mile Asphalt
09-19-09 (Big Country Speedway; Cheyenne, WY.) 1/5 Mile Asphalt
05-02-09 (I-76 Speedway; Ft. Morgan, CO.) ¼ Mile Dirt
05-30-09 (I-76 Speedway; Ft. Morgan, CO.) ¼ Mile Dirt
06-13-09 (I-25 Speedway; Pueblo, CO.) ¼ Mile Asphalt
06-20-09 (Colorado National Speedway; Erie, CO.) 3/8 Mile Asphalt
06-27-09 (Big Country Speedway; Cheyenne, WY.) 1/5 Mile Asphalt
07-04-09 (I-25 Speedway; Pueblo, CO.) ¼ Mile Asphalt
07-18-09 (I-76 Speedway; Ft. Morgan, CO.) ¼ Mile Dirt
07-26-09 (HWY 36 Speedway; Osborn, MO.) 3/8 Mile Dirt “NON-POINTS”
07-27-09 (Butler County Motorplex; Rising City, NE.) 1/3 Mile Dirt
07-28-09 (Junction Motor Speedway; McCool Junction, NE.) 3/8 Mile Dirt
07-29-09 (Junction Motor Speedway; McCool Junction, NE.) 3/8 Mile Dirt
07-31-09 (Belleville High Banks; Belleville, KS.) ½ Mile Dirt “NON-POINTS”
08-01-09 (Belleville High Banks; Belleville, KS.) ½ Mile Dirt “NON-POINTS”
08-08-09 (I-76 Speedway; Ft. Morgan, CO.) ¼ Mile Dirt
08-22-09 (I-25 Speedway; Pueblo, CO.) ¼ Mile Asphalt
08-29-09 (Colorado National Speedway; Erie, CO.) 3/8 Mile Asphalt
09-05-09 (Big Country Speedway; Cheyenne, WY.) 1/5 Mile Asphalt
09-12-09 (I-25 Speedway; Pueblo, CO.) ¼ Mile Asphalt
09-19-09 (Big Country Speedway; Cheyenne, WY.) 1/5 Mile Asphalt
Friday, January 23, 2009
Feb. Lancaster Event Center Kart race canceled
Citing logistical and sponsor reasons, Nebraska Raceway Park management has
canceled the February kart race tentatively scheduled for the Lancaster
Events Center. Read the full post here:
canceled the February kart race tentatively scheduled for the Lancaster
Events Center. Read the full post here:
Beatrice HOF 2009 Daytona Party Feb. 15
The Hall of Fame will hold its 4th annual Daytona 500 party on Sunday, Feb.
15th, 2009. This event will again be held at Risky's Sports Bar. There is NO
COVER CHARGE! Among the events planned, are:
15th, 2009. This event will again be held at Risky's Sports Bar. There is NO
COVER CHARGE! Among the events planned, are:
The Budweiser Pit Stop Challenge - Think you can change a tire faster than
your friends? Here is your chance to prove it. Experience a complete tire
off-tire on change, complete with gloves, impacts, and lug nuts! A
tournament style bracket will be set up based on the number of entries. This
is also a FREE event. Defending Champion is Ryan Gilland of Beatrice.
Risky's will again have drink and meal specials running throughout the day
(details to come later)
BIG RED KENO is also available!
Door prizes, giveaways, raffle items, and games are all planned. This is a
FREE event to attend. Just show up, and have a good time.
We will also have several items available for bidding in a silent auction.
*** THIS IS OUR ONLY FUNDRAISER FOR THE YEAR. PLEASE ATTEND AND HELP SHOW
YOUR SUPPORT OF THE BEATRICE SPEEDWAY HALL OF FAME. THANKS! ***
Any individuals or businesses wishing to donate any items for the raffles,
or giveaways, please contact any Hall of Fame committee member or stop in or
call Brian at Extreme Motorsports, @ 402-228-5861.
Committee members are Brian Langdale, Bridget Siems-Thornburg, Tommy Denton,
Mark Wasserman, Jeff Shew, and Sheryl Rogge.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Belleville Motorsports adds 5th Modified series to IMCA contingency awards program for 2009
BELLEVILLE, Kan. (Jan. 22) – Drivers in a fifth special series for
IMCA Modifieds receive contingency awards this season from Belleville
Motorsports.
IMCA Modifieds receive contingency awards this season from Belleville
Motorsports.
A designated place finisher at each of the 16 events in the Rotating
Right Wild West Southern Tour will pocket product certificates worth
$50 from the Belleville, Kan., chassis builder and high performance
parts and compo nents retailer.
BMS will also give awards to competitors in the EQ Cylinder Heads
Wild West Northern Tour, the World Products Empire State Series Tour,
Larry Shaw Racing Blood, Sweat and Tears Series and the Big Dog
Dakota Classic Tour.
"BMS has steadily supported our Modified special events for the past
eight years," noted IMCA Marketing Director Kevin Yoder. "Their
product certificates will continue to go to drivers in all parts of
the country with the addition of the Southern WWMT and we appreciate
their involvement."
More information about BMS-made chassis is available by calling 785
527-5080 and at the www.bmsmods.com web site.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Chili Bowl Pics - Joe Orth
Joe sent another round of pics from Saturday
http://www.heartlandracenews.com/images/chilibowl3/chilibowljoe3.html
http://www.heartlandracenews.com/images/chilibowl3/chilibowljoe3.html
Monday, January 19, 2009
Chili Bowl Pics - Joe Orth
Joe sent pics over the weekend. Here's the entire set.
http://www.heartlandracenews.com/images/ChiliBowlJoe/chilibowljoe2.html
http://www.heartlandracenews.com/images/ChiliBowlJoe/chilibowljoe2.html
Butler County Motorplex Race to Remember 9/11/09
From Travis Johnson, Flagman Butler County Motorplex
The card for the night will feature 360 sprint cars, A-Modifieds (IMCA rules
no sanctioning), and the GOTRA's. We are working on bringing in what I
believe is a "modern" lite class. I will get more info out on this later on
in the year.
This is a race to remember Nebraska's fallen soldiers in Iraq and to those
lost on 9/11. We will have families from across Nebraska present who lost
family members in Iraq. In the works is a very special tribute the Nebraska
National Guard will do. We are working on getting a funnel cake vendor,
potato spiral vendor, and a sno cone vendor. The 360 sprint cars will pay
$2001 to win and the modifieds will pay $911 to win.
I am working very hard on getting race product sponsors as well as anyone
who will donate something to be raffled off that night. The spectators and
drivers will have to purchase raffle tickets in order to win these products.
All the money will be donated to a 9/11 charity as well that night. We have
businesses who have donated a few things and then some who are sending tons
of products. Anywhere from race tires, headers, car cleaner, restaurant and
entertainment gift certificates, tickets to comedy shows, etc will be given
away that night.
The big plus right now is going for the modified drivers. I am in
negotiations will BMS to bring their 2010 house car to the show and they
could very well give away a brand new BMS modified chassis to the winner
that night. Nothing is set in stone for this though. But I am working on it.
This show will take place during the Supernationals in Boone, Iowa but I
feel what better time to have it than on this date. This will give the
driver who can't compete with all the high dollar race teams in Iowa a
chance to win some really good pay and prizes at this show. We do expect
standing room only and we will try and get something setup on the website
for prepay tickets so you don't have to wait in line to purchase tickets
that night. New information will come along as we go through the year.
We do have a very special t-shirt for this show as well that we debuted at
the Columbus swap meet. We are selling advertising spots on the back of the
shirt for $75 if you would like to have your business's logo put on the back
of it. A portion of that will be donated to charity as well. The shirts will
sell for $15 and $5 of every shirt will be donated to charity too.
Put this show on your calendars and spread the word! I hope to see all of
you at Butler County Motorplex this upcoming season!
9/11 product sponsors as of 1/18/09:
Stereo West Auto Toys
Belleville Motorsports
Smiley's Racing Products
Jegs
MSD Ignition
TCI Auto
Wesmar Race Engines
Extreme Motorsports
HRP Racing
Bryke Circle Track Parts
Eckley Race Engines
Lifelock (lifelock.com)
Roth Racing
Raceday Prints
Hansen Oil Service
Velocity Indoor Karting
Keizer Race Wheels
Brooke Tatnell
Funnybone Comedy Club
John Anderson Racing
Firefreeze
Amigos
Super Clean
Armor All
Dirtdrivers (dirtdrivers.com)
Edelbrock
Grisantis
Olive Garden
Ticket Express
Harris Decals
C&W Collectibles
Friday, January 16, 2009
I-80 Schedule Released
The 2009 schedule is available on I-80's website:
http://www.neracewaypark.com/I80/schedule.php
SLMR Schedule Released
The 2009 Spec Late Model Racing series (SLMR) schedule has been released.
They're branching out this year and are awaiting for dates from Beatrice
Speedway and Adams County Speedway in Iowa.
They're branching out this year and are awaiting for dates from Beatrice
Speedway and Adams County Speedway in Iowa.
http://neracewaypark.com/I80/schedule.php (scroll to bottom of page)
Thursday Chili Bowl pics - Brandon Anderson
Brandon sent pics from Thursday's Chili Bowl action. Check 'em out here:
http://www.heartlandracenews.com/images/chiliba_thur/chilibowlba2.html
http://www.heartlandracenews.com/images/chiliba_thur/chilibowlba2.html
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Chili Bowl Pics - Brandon Anderson
Brandon Anderson sent some pics from Wednesday's action. Check 'em out at the link below
http://www.heartlandracenews.com/images/chilibowlba/chilibowlba.html
http://www.heartlandracenews.com/images/chilibowlba/chilibowlba.html
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Chili Bowl Pics - Joe Orth
Here's just a few shots Joe sent from the Chili Bowl. As Joe sends more I'll post 'em.
http://www.heartlandracenews.com/images/chilibowl09_1/chilibowl1.html
http://www.heartlandracenews.com/images/chilibowl09_1/chilibowl1.html
Dakar Rally Photos
Hey, I know it's Chili Bowl time and a hell of a lot more "local" than
something on the other side of the equator, but here's some cool pics from
this year's Dakar Rally and cool racing pics are cool racing pics.
something on the other side of the equator, but here's some cool pics from
this year's Dakar Rally and cool racing pics are cool racing pics.
Due to terrorism concerns, the rally has left its namesake African home and
moved to Chile.
The comments are kind of funny.
http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2009/01/the_2009_dakar_rally.html
WHEN I get some Chili Bowl pics (anyone out there?) I'll post them...
Cresco Speedway Announces 2009 Schedule
CRESCO, Iowa (Jan. 12) -- Officials from RL Promotions and the Cresco
Speedway in Cresco, Iowa, have announced a tentative schedule of events for
the 2009 racing season at the Howard County Fairgrounds 4/10-mile
high-banked clay oval.
Speedway in Cresco, Iowa, have announced a tentative schedule of events for
the 2009 racing season at the Howard County Fairgrounds 4/10-mile
high-banked clay oval.
An exciting season of Fast & Furious Fridays and racing under the United
States Racing Association banner will kick off on May 17 with the season
opener for the USRA Weekly Racing Series featuring USRA Modifieds racing for
$1,000 to win, plus USRA Karl Chevrolet Stock Cars, USRA Karl Chevrolet
B-Mods and USRA Hobby Stocks.
Four days later on Thursday, May 21, the super-fast Modifieds of the USMTS
National Tour will be in town for the first of two shows this year in
Cresco. Kelly Shryock, Jason Hughes, Mark Noble, Zack VanderBeek and the
rest of the rugged road warriors will be back again on Tuesday, Aug. 4, for
the third annual NASCAR Night.
On Tuesday, June 16, the Deery Brothers Summer Series for IMCA Late Models
hits the track with some of the region's top Late Model pilots expected to
be on hand.
The annual Howard County Fair race will take place on Sunday, June 28, along
with the USRA Weekly Racing Series (no Modifieds) plus Hornets.
Fireworks will fill the air on Thursday, July 2, with all four classes in
action and a special for the USRA Karl Chevrolet B-Mods with a $1,500 top
prize on the line.
Two weeks later on Thursday, July 16, it's the Great American Stock Car
Challenge with $2,000 awaiting the winner of the USRA Karl Chevrolet Stock
Car main event.
The curtain will close on the 2009 season on Tuesday, Sept. 1, with the USRA
Weekly Racing Series on tap and a special $1,000-to-win USRA Hobby Stock
feature to cap off the night.
Defending track champions at the Cresco Speedway are Darrin Walch of
Postville (USRA Modifieds), Tom Schmitt of Independence (USRA Karl Chevrolet
Srock Cars), Jimmy Broszeit of Postville (USRA Karl Chevrolet B-Mods) and
Brandon Hare of Elma (USRA Hobby Stocks).
For more information, contact the RL Promotions offices at (515) 832-6000 or
visit www.rlpromotions.com online. Race day info is available by calling the
track hotline at (563) 547-3400. The Cresco Speedway is located 0.2 miles
north of SR 9 on SW 7th (at the Howard County Fairgrounds).
CRESCO SPEEDWAY
2009 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Sun May 17 . Season Opener - USRA Weekly Racing Series ($1,000 to win
Modifieds)
Thu May 21 . USMTS National Tour plus USRA Weekly Racing Series
Sun May 31 . USRA Weekly Racing Series
Sun Jun 7 . USRA Weekly Racing Series
Tue Jun 16 . Deery Brothers IMCA Late Model Summer Series plus USRA Weekly
Racing Series (no Modifieds)
Sun Jun 28 . Howard County Fair Special - USRA Weekly Racing Series plus
Hornets
Thu Jul 2 . Firecracker Special - USRA Weekly Racing Series plus Fireworks
($1,500 to win B-Mods)
Sun Jul 12 . USRA Weekly Racing Series
Thu Jul 16 . Great American Stock Car Challenge plus USRA Weekly Racing
Series ($2,000 to win Stock Cars)
Sun Jul 26 . USRA Weekly Racing Series - Modified Special
Tue Aug 4 . NASCAR Night - USMTS National Tour plus USRA Weekly Racing
Series
Sun Aug 23 . USRA Weekly Racing Series
Tue Sep 1 . Season Finale - USRA Weekly Racing Series - Hobby Stock Special
($1,000 to win)
Schedule is tentative and subject to change without notice. Unless otherwise
noted, the USRA Weekly Racing Series features USRA Modifieds, USRA Karl
Chevrolet Stock Cars, USRA Karl Chevrolet B-Mods and USRA Hobby Stocks.
Southern Iowa Speedway 2009 Schedule Revealed
OSKALOOSA, Iowa (Jan. 12) -- Officials from RL Promotions have announced a
tentative schedule of events for the 2009 racing season at the Southern Iowa
Speedway in Oskaloosa, Iowa.
tentative schedule of events for the 2009 racing season at the Southern Iowa
Speedway in Oskaloosa, Iowa.
Another exciting season of Wild, Wild Wednesdays with racing under the
United States Racing Association banner will kick off on Wednesday, May 13,
with the season opener for the USRA Weekly Racing Series featuring MUSCO
Lighting USRA Modifieds, USRA Karl Chevrolet Stock Cars, Carter's
Manufacturing USRA B-Mods and USRA Hobby Stocks.
On Tuesday, May 19, the Mahaska County Half-Mile Monster will feature the
popular USMTS Modifieds featuring Kelly Shryock, Zack VanderBeek, Jason
Krohn, Al Hejna, Jason Hughes and many more of the nation's top
mud-slinging, three-wheeling pilots. Also in action will be the USRA Karl
Chevrolet Stock Cars, USRA Karl Chevrolet B-Mods and USRA Hobby Stocks.
On Wednesday, July 1, the bad-fast USRA Karl Chevrolet Stock Cars take
center stage for the annual Great American Stock Car Shootout.
The Southern Iowa Fair returns on Wednesday, July 22, with a return visit by
the Deery Brothers Summer Series for IMCA Late Models.
After the Pepsi Season Championships on Wednesday, Sept. 2, the curtain will
close on the 2009 with the thrilling 23rd Annual MUSCO Lighting Fall
Challenge on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 9-10.
Defending track champions at the Southern Iowa Speedway are Colt Mather of
Webster (MUSCO Lighting USRA Modifieds), Matt Greiner of Iowa City (USRA
Karl Chevrolet Stock Cars), Brian Edel of Oskaloosa (USRA Karl Chevrolet
B-Mods) and Jason McDaniel of Eldon (USRA Hobby Stocks).
For more information, contact the RL Promotions offices at (515) 832-6000 or
visit www.rlpromotions.com online. Race day info is available by calling the
track hotline at (641) 673-7004. The Southern Iowa Speedway is located 0.5
mile west of US 63 on SR 92, then 0.3 mile north on N. I St. (at the
Southern Iowa Fairgrounds).
SOUTHERN IOWA SPEEDWAY
2009 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Wed May 13 . Season Opener - USRA Weekly Racing Series
Tue May 19 . USMTS National Tour plus USRA Weekly Racing Series
Wed May 27 . USRA Weekly Racing Series
Wed Jun 3 . USRA Weekly Racing Series - Hobby Stock Special
Wed Jun 10 . USRA Weekly Racing Series - B-Mod Special
Wed Jun 17 . USRA Weekly Racing Series
Wed Jun 24 . USRA Weekly Racing Series
Wed Jul 1 . Great American Stock Car Shootout plus USRA Weekly Racing Series
Wed Jul 8 . USRA Weekly Racing Series - $1,000 to win Modifieds (no B-Mods)
Wed Jul 15 . USRA Weekly Racing Series - B-Mod Special
Wed Jul 22 . Southern Iowa Fair - Deery Brothers IMCA Late Model Summer
Series plus USRA Weekly Racing Series (no Modifieds)
Wed Jul 29 . USRA Weekly Racing Series
Wed Aug 5 . USMTS (Hobby Stock Special)
Wed Aug 19 . USRA Weekly Racing Series
Wed Aug 26 . USRA Weekly Racing Series (Mods $1000 to win)
Wed Sep 2 . Pepsi Cola Season Championship
Fri Oct 9 . 23rd Annual Musco Lighting Fall Challenge
Sat Oct 10 . 23rd Annual Musco Lighting Fall Challenge
Schedule is tentative and subject to change without notice. Unless otherwise
noted, the USRA Weekly Racing Series features USRA Modifieds, USRA Karl
Chevrolet Stock Cars, USRA Karl Chevrolet B-Mods and USRA Hobby Stocks.
Friday, January 09, 2009
USMTS Schedule Released
Thursday, January 8, 2009
OFFICIALS ANNOUNCE AGGRESSIVE 60-RACE USMTS NATIONAL TOUR SCHEDULE
WEBSTER CITY, Iowa (Jan. 8) – Officials from the United States Modified
Touring Series released the 2009 USMTS National Tour schedule of events
Thursday which features an exciting slate of races that is sure to make the
winter months seem even longer to thousands of action-hungry race fans.
The assembled slate of mud-slinging shows includes return events at some the
most popular USMTS venues, as well as a bolstered menu of new racetracks
representing the finest in the country.
The rugged road warriors of the USMTS National Tour will thrill race fans in
America's heartland with an aggressive campaign which currently features 60
events at 39 different venues in 10 different States. The schedule is
highlighted with return engagements to 31 facilities that hosted an O'Reilly
USMTS National Event last season, one facility returning to the line-up
after a two-year hiatus and seven new venues encompassing some of the most
exciting dirt ovals in America.
For the sixth straight year, they USMTS National Events campaign will kick
off with a doubleheader at the Junction Motor Speedway in McCool Junction,
Neb. The 6th Annual Nebraska Spring Thaw is slated for Friday and Saturday,
March 6-7. Friday's event will pay $2,000 to win while the victor in
Saturday's main event will pocket $3,000. More than 70 entries are once
again expected for the annual lidlifter at the 3/8-mile high-banked clay
oval.
The following weekend will find the USMTS National Tour at the Caney Valley
Speedway in Caney, Kan., for the first time on Friday, March 13, followed by
a Saturday date at the Humboldt Speedway in Humboldt, Kan., on Saturday,
March 14.
The month on March wraps up with trips to the LA Raceway in La Monte, Mo.,
on Friday, March 27, and Thunderhill Speedway in Mayetta, Kan., on Saturday,
March 28.
The West Siloam Speedway in West Siloam Springs, Okla., will host the second
doubleheader of the season for the third straight year on Friday and
Saturday, April 3-4. The event, which pays $2,000 and $3,000 to win,
respectively, is expected to attract a powerful field of entries as both
USMTS National Tour and USMTS Southern Series points will be awarded.
The only other USMTS National Tour date during the month of April happens on
Friday, April 10, with an inaugural event at Kevin and Tammy Gundaker's
legendary Tri-City Speedway in Pontoon Beach, Ill.
A busy month of May kicks off with a three-day swing through the Show-Me
State, beginning Friday, May 15, at the Midway Speedway in Lebanon, Mo.
Saturday, May 16, will find the USMTS National Tour at the Springfield
Raceway in Springfield, Mo., for the first time after last year's first-ever
attempt fell to rain. The tripleheader weekend winds up at Randy Mooneyham's
Monett Speedway in Monett, Mo., on Sunday, May 17.
Tuesday, May 19, finds the touring titans back on familiar ground with a
$2,000-to-win stop at the Southern Iowa Speedway in Oskaloosa, Iowa, for the
first of seven straight days of racing action. After rain swept away chances
of the much-anticipated debut in 2008 at the Marshalltown Speedway in
Marshalltown, Iowa, the USMTS National Tour is back at Toby Kruse's
blistering-fast bullring in 2009 on Wednesday, May 20. Thursday, May 21,
it's on to the Cresco Speedway in Cresco, Iowa, followed by annual Memorial
Day Weekend events at the Chateau Raceway, Lansing, Minn., on Friday, May
22; Deer Creek Speedway in Spring Valley, Minn., on Saturday, May 23; Dodge
County Speedway in Kasson, Minn., on Sunday, May 24; and Tri-Oval Speedway
in Fountain City, Wis., on Monday, May 25.
After a one-week break, the dirt merchants get back to business in June with
more nights on the racetrack than not.
Six straight shows start off the sixth month of the year with a Monday, June
1, engagement at the Iowa State Fair Speedway in Des Moines, Iowa. From
there, it's on to the Hancock County Speedway in Britt, Iowa, on Tuesday,
June 2; Highway 3 Raceway in Allison, Iowa, on Wednesday, June 3; Buena
Vista Raceway in Alta, Iowa, on Thursday, June 4; Murray County Speedway in
Slayton, Minn., on Friday, June 5; and Upper Iowa Speedway in Decorah, Iowa,
on Saturday, June 6.
After a well-deserved ten-day rest, the engines fire up again on Tuesday,
June 16, at the Park Jefferson Speedway in Jefferson, S.D., for the first of
ten shows planned for the next eleven calendar dates. On Wednesday, June 17,
the USMTS National Tour returns to the Huset's Speedway in Brandon, S.D.,
then heads north to the Casino Speedway in Watertown, S.D., on Thursday,
June 18. Two yet-to-be-determined venues are penciled in for Friday and
Saturday, June 19-20, before trekking to the Nobles County Speedway in
Worthington, Minn., on Sunday, June 21. Everybody gets to take a breath on
Monday before moving on to the Mineral City Speedway in Fort Dodge, Iowa, on
Tuesday, June 23.
By popular demand, race fans will get their first chance to see the stars
and cars of the USMTS National Tour at Joe Ringsdorf's I-35 Speedway in
Mason City, Iowa, on Wednesday, June 24.
"Joe is one of the premier promoters in the country," said USMTS promoter
Todd Staley. "We are thrilled to have the opportunity to work with him to
bring the USMTS to the I-35 Speedway fans in 2009."
Thursday, June 25, is reserved for a to-be-announced event prior to invading
the U.S. 36 Raceway in Osborn, Mo., on Friday, June 26. After a two-year
hiatus, the USMTS National Tour returns to the state-of-the-art Lucas Oil
Speedway in Wheatland, Mo., on Saturday, June 27, to close the curtain on a
busy month of June and kick off a nearly four-week "summer vacation" for the
tireless USMTS National Tour teams before returning to battle on Thursday,
July 24, at the Fayette County Speedway in West Union, Iowa.
Another new and exciting venue, and a one-of-a-kind event is in store on
Friday and Saturday, July 24-25, as the USMTS National Tour invades the
famed Elko Speedway in Elko, Minn. Come watch as Elko's asphalt track is
transformed into a dirt gridiron for the Dirt Nationals. Races will take
place Wednesday through Saturday with a free post-race bonfire and live
music following the races every night.
Things get busy again in August as the USMTS National Tour returns to the
Cresco Speedway on Thursday, Aug. 4. The five-day swing continues on Friday,
Aug. 5, with the second stop of the season at the Southern Iowa Speedway. On
Thursday, Aug. 6, one of the longest-running events on the USMTS schedule
happens at the 10th Annual UPS Store Illinois Challenge at the Knox County
Fairgrounds in Knoxville, Ill., takes place, followed by another new
first-time venue on Friday, Aug. 7, at the Kankakee County Speedway in
Kankakee, Ill. The week concludes with a Saturday, Aug. 8, appointment with
the 24 Raceway Park in Moberly, Mo.
Four encore performances are on tap for Tuesday through Friday, Aug. 11-14,
at the Monett Speedway, LA Raceway, Springfield Raceway and Humboldt
Speedway. After a classic battle in the inaugural event last season, the
USMTS National Tour returns to Heartland Park Topeka in Topeka, Kan., on
Saturday, Aug. 15, the wrap up the second five-race swing of August.
Thursday, Aug. 20, will take place at the Steele County Speedway in
Owatonna, Minn., during the annual Steele County Free Fair—the largest
county fair in Minnesota. The Tri-Oval Speedway hosts the USMTS National
Tour for the second time in 2009 on Friday, Aug. 21, as does the Upper Iowa
Speedway on Saturday, Aug. 22. On Wednesday, Sept. 2, it's a return to the
Highway 3 Raceway to kick off four nights of Labor Day Weekend action. The
Buena Vista Raceway awaits again on Thursday, Sept. 3, followed by the 4th
Annual Cedar River Races at the Chateau Raceway on Friday, Sept. 4; the 6th
Annual Labor Day Dual on Saturday, Sept. 5, at the Deer Creek Speedway; and
the 8th Annual Kasson Klash at the Dodge County Speedway on Sunday, Sept. 6.
The USMTS National Tour will return to the Deer Creek Speedway for the 11th
Annual Featherlite Fall Jamboree on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Sept.
24-26. The standing-room-only show has become one of the most popular races
on the calendars of Modified fans, as well as one of the most lucrative for
the drivers. Thursday's main event winner will pocket $2,000, Friday's
winner will get $4,000 and a $6,000 paycheck awaits Saturday's champion.
Last season's Featherlite Fall Jamboree saw more than 120 drivers compete,
with a rich pedigree pit area full of America's best-known pilots.
USMTS NATIONAL TOUR 2009 SCHEDULE
Fri Mar 6 … Junction Motor Speedway, McCool Junction, NE ($2,000 to win)
Sat Mar 7 … Junction Motor Speedway, McCool Junction, NE ($3,000 to win)
Fri Mar 13 … Caney Valley Speedway, Caney, KS ($2,000 to win)
Sat Mar 14 … Humboldt Speedway, Humboldt, KS ($2,000 to win)
Fri Mar 27 … LA Raceway, La Monte, MO ($2,000 to win)
Sat Mar 28 … Thunderhill Speedway, Mayetta, KS ($2,000 to win)
Fri Apr 3 … West Siloam Speedway, West Siloam Springs, OK ($2,000 to win)
Sat Apr 4 … West Siloam Speedway, West Siloam Springs, OK ($3,000 to win)
Fri Apr 10 … Tri-City Speedway, Granite City, IL ($2,000 to win)
Fri May 15 … Midway Speedway, Lebanon, MO ($2,000 to win)
Sat May 16 … Springfield Raceway, Springfield, MO ($2,000 to win)
Sun May 17 … Monett Speedway, Monett, MO ($2,000 to win)
Tue May 19 … Southern Iowa Speedway, Oskaloosa, IA ($2,000 to win)
Wed May 20 … Marshalltown Speedway, Marshalltown, IA ($2,000 to win)
Thu May 21 … Cresco Speedway, Cresco, IA ($2,000 to win)
Fri May 22 … Chateau Raceway, Lansing, MN ($2,000 to win)
Sat May 23 … Deer Creek Speedway, Spring Valley, MN ($2,000 to win)
Sun May 24 … Dodge County Speedway, Kasson, MN ($2,000 to win)
Mon May 25 … Tri-Oval Speedway, Fountain City, WI ($2,000 to win)
Mon Jun 1 … Iowa State Fair Speedway, Des Moines, IA ($2,000 to win)
Tue Jun 2 … Hancock County Speedway, Britt, IA ($2,000 to win)
Wed Jun 3 … Highway 3 Raceway, Allison, IA ($2,000 to win)
Thu Jun 4 … Buena Vista Raceway, Alta, IA ($2,000 to win)
Fri Jun 5 … Murray County Speedway, Slayton, MN ($2,000 to win)
Sat Jun 6 … Upper Iowa Speedway, Decorah, IA ($2,000 to win)
Tue Jun 16 … Park Jefferson Speedway, Jefferson, SD ($2,000 to win)
Wed Jun 17 … Huset's Speedway, Brandon, SD ($2,000 to win)
Thu Jun 18 … Casino Speedway, Watertown, SD ($2,000 to win)
Fri Jun 19 … TBA
Sat Jun 20 … TBA
Sun Jun 21 … Nobles County Speedway, Worthington, MN ($2,000 to win)
Tue Jun 23 … Mineral City Speedway, Fort Dodge, IA ($2,000 to win)
Wed Jun 24 … I-35 Speedway, Mason City, IA ($2,000 to win)
Thu Jun 25 … TBA
Fri Jun 26 … U.S. 36 Raceway, Osborn, MO ($2,000 to win)
Sat Jun 27 … Lucas Oil Speedway, Wheatland, MO ($2,000 to win)
Thu Jul 23 … Fayette County Speedway, West Union, IA ($2,000 to win)
Fri Jul 24 … Elko Speedway, Elko, MN ($2,000 to win)
Sat Jul 25 … Elko Speedway, Elko, MN ($3,000 to win)
Tue Aug 4 … Cresco Speedway, Cresco, IA ($2,000 to win)
Wed Aug 5 … Southern Iowa Speedway, Oskaloosa, IA ($2,000 to win)
Thu Aug 6 … Knox County Fairgrounds, Knoxville, IL ($2,000 to win)
Fri Aug 7 … Kankakee County Speedway, Kankakee, IL ($2,000 to win)
Sat Aug 8 … 24 Raceway Park, Moberly, MO ($2,000 to win)
Tue Aug 11 … Monett Speedway, Monett, MO ($2,000 to win)
Wed Aug 12 … LA Raceway, La Monte, MO ($2,000 to win)
Thu Aug 13 … Springfield Raceway, Springfield, MO ($2,000 to win)
Fri Aug 14 … Humboldt Speedway, Humboldt, KS ($2,000 to win)
Sat Aug 15 … Heartland Park Topeka, Topeka, KS ($3,000 to win)
Thu Aug 20 … Steele County Speedway, Owatonna, MN ($3,000 to win)
Fri Aug 21 … Tri-Oval Speedway, Fountain City, WI ($3,000 to win)
Sat Aug 22 … Upper Iowa Speedway, Decorah, IA ($3,000 to win)
Wed Sep 2 … Highway 3 Raceway, Allison, IA ($3,000 to win)
Thu Sep 3 … Buena Vista Raceway, Alta, IA ($3,000 to win)
Fri Sep 4 … Chateau Raceway, Lansing, MN ($3,000 to win)
Sat Sep 5 … Deer Creek Speedway, Spring Valley, MN ($3,000 to win)
Sun Sep 6 … Dodge County Speedway, Kasson, MN ($3,000 to win)
Thu Sep 24 … Deer Creek Speedway, Spring Valley, MN ($2,000 to win)
Fri Sep 25 … Deer Creek Speedway, Spring Valley, MN ($4,000 to win)
Sat Sep 26 … Deer Creek Speedway, Spring Valley, MN ($6,000 to win)
Schedule is tentative and subject to change without notice. USMTS officials
plan to announce regional alignments and the events comprising the Hunt for
the USMTS National Championship in the next few days.
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.
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
PRESENTING SPONSOR: Casey's General Stores.
OFFICIAL SPONSORS: American Race Tires, Arizona Sport Shirts,
AwesomeRaceSuits.com, Awesome Racewear, Bear Tire Company, BRODIX Cylinder
Heads, Childhelp, Gressel Racing, Houston Specialty Products Co., Karl
Chevrolet, KEVKO Oil Pans & Components, New Vision Graphics, Nitroquest Web
Solutions, Q.E.M., Inc., TrackTek Racing Fuel, Western Flyer Xpress.
PARTICIPATING SPONSORS: Boom Drilling, Buzzard Racing Engines, Day Motor
Sports, Ramirez Race Cars, Olympic Fire Protection, Rookies Rockin' Sports
Bar, Ruter Farms, Yeager Machine.
CONTINGENCY SPONSORS: AFCO Racing Products, Belleville Motorsports, BSB
Manufacturing, COMP Cams, Duralite Racing Wheels, Dynatech Racing Exhaust,
GRT Race Cars, Hawk Performance, Holley Performance Products, Hyperco, ISKY
Racing Cams, KSE Racing Products, Marsh Racing Wheels, Quarter Master,
QuickTime Performance Race Parts, Real Racing Wheels, US Brake.
##
Contact Info:
Jeff Nun
Communications Director
United States Modified Touring Series, Inc. (USMTS)
608 Des Moines St.
Webster City, IA 50595
tel: (515) 297-3835
email: media@usmts.com
web: www.usmts.com
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Three Years Old!
Hey everyone – didn’t think I could do it, but this site is three years old now and I have all the desire to keep it going for 2009! I’ve received a lot of feedback from everyone, and it’s been a blast. I’m still looking for new things, and new ideas. If you have any, shoot ‘em my way! I’m pondering video, ads and certainly more interviews.
I want to say THANK YOU to everyone for helping me keep this going. Here’s to a safe, happy, and fun 2009.
-Jason
I want to say THANK YOU to everyone for helping me keep this going. Here’s to a safe, happy, and fun 2009.
-Jason
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Ninth Annual Midwest Racers Autograph Day
The Ninth Annual Midwest Racers Autograph Day will be held on April 4th,
2009. This year the time and location have changed. To further accommodate
racers from area tracks that may have to race that evening, we will be
running the event from 11am-3pm this year. We also have a brand new location
sponsor for this year. Speedway Motors Inc. of Lincoln, Nebraska will be the
home of the 2009 Midwest Racers Autograph Day. Speedway is located at 340
Victory Lane.
2009. This year the time and location have changed. To further accommodate
racers from area tracks that may have to race that evening, we will be
running the event from 11am-3pm this year. We also have a brand new location
sponsor for this year. Speedway Motors Inc. of Lincoln, Nebraska will be the
home of the 2009 Midwest Racers Autograph Day. Speedway is located at 340
Victory Lane.
Check out our newly redesigned website for more details:
www.autographday.homestead.com
Be sure to check back often as we will be adding sponsors as they come in
and drivers, be sure to get your information in ASAP. Some of you may
remember from last year if you were one of the first 25 drivers to sign up;
you were entered into a drawing for a $500 sponsorship. That said, it pays
to come to Autograph Day!
We are always looking for sponsors, supporters, and of course, you drivers
out there to show off what you got!
Monday, January 05, 2009
Beatrice Speedway Kid's Club
From Rhonda Wisdom
It's that time of year again when we start looking forward to the next race
season!!
If you'd like to sponsor the Kids Club this year, you can go to the Beatrice
Speedway website and you will find the form there. Just download it, fill it
out and mail it with the payment by February 1st.
If you have any questions at all, email dirttrack1@charter.net
Thanks!! Rhonda Wisdom
Sunday, January 04, 2009
Humston to Drive Burch 'Banana Wagon' in 2009
From Mark Burch Motorsports
Mark Burch Motorsports prepares for a fresh and exciting 2009.
2009 will make its mark on our 16th year of competition in the wonderful arena of Sprint Car Racing. While many things have changed over the last decade and a half, many things have stayed the same. We have been through many highs and lows. There have been thrilling victories with crazed all night celebrations and perilous defeats followed by several hundreds of miles of silence. The common theme that runs through every season is our enduring commitment to the pursuit of excellence in our sport.
Although I have had many great influences in my life and racing career, none have been as prominent as my two heroes, Doug Wolfgang and Tim Engler. I could not start any kind of press release without giving thanks and praise to these two men. They have been totally unselfish and committed to the success of our team, year in and year out. I know that this year will be no different and I am looking forward to working with them as we constantly strive to refine our chassis and engine programs.
My wife Mari and kids, Parker – 7 and Sailor – 5, have given their unselfish love and support the whole way through. They make me a very lucky and blessed man to have them as part of our team.
Marvin Brees is a force to be reckoned with in any situation. He is a loyal friend and the hardest worker I have ever met in my life. His attention to detail in our shop and work ethic on the road are unsurpassed. Our team would be less than incomplete without his efforts. He tirelessly continues to prepare our equipment for the upcoming season. His fortitude is relentless and we would be nothing without him.
Don Droud Jr., Doug Wolfgang, Bruce Divis, Jake Peters, Billy Alley, Skip Jackson, Terry McCarl. That’s quite a list of talented drivers. Each and every one of them has played a significant role in building our team to what it is today. To each of them I am very grateful for their contributions and efforts. Thanks guys!
Now it is time to add a new name to the list….a young name to the list. After some brief trial runs in 2008, I am pleased to announce that Chad Humston, from Giltner, NE will be piloting the famed 1m Banana Wagon in 2009. I know that Chad is excited for the opportunity and we are all eager and looking forward to racing with him this year. It’s going to be great to have him as a part of this team.
This is a time where many teams are folding or scaling back. Here at Mark Burch Motorsports, we have worked hard to put ourselves in a position to be stronger than ever for the upcoming season. We have been fortunate to have great relationships with all of our marketing partners and manufacturers throughout the years. We will continue to represent them in a positive manner and gain them maximum exposure through our efforts.
If you would like to see some highlights of Chad in the Banana Wagon from 2008, you can find them on www.youtube.com. Here are the links: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6A2PgmX9E8 and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-lc4BtD3Rs
We are currently working on our schedule and plan on starting out in April. Of course it will be adjusted for family and business commitments but I urge you all to keep your eye out for the Banana Wagon at race track near you.
Mark Burch Motorsports prepares for a fresh and exciting 2009.
2009 will make its mark on our 16th year of competition in the wonderful arena of Sprint Car Racing. While many things have changed over the last decade and a half, many things have stayed the same. We have been through many highs and lows. There have been thrilling victories with crazed all night celebrations and perilous defeats followed by several hundreds of miles of silence. The common theme that runs through every season is our enduring commitment to the pursuit of excellence in our sport.
Although I have had many great influences in my life and racing career, none have been as prominent as my two heroes, Doug Wolfgang and Tim Engler. I could not start any kind of press release without giving thanks and praise to these two men. They have been totally unselfish and committed to the success of our team, year in and year out. I know that this year will be no different and I am looking forward to working with them as we constantly strive to refine our chassis and engine programs.My wife Mari and kids, Parker – 7 and Sailor – 5, have given their unselfish love and support the whole way through. They make me a very lucky and blessed man to have them as part of our team.
Marvin Brees is a force to be reckoned with in any situation. He is a loyal friend and the hardest worker I have ever met in my life. His attention to detail in our shop and work ethic on the road are unsurpassed. Our team would be less than incomplete without his efforts. He tirelessly continues to prepare our equipment for the upcoming season. His fortitude is relentless and we would be nothing without him.
Don Droud Jr., Doug Wolfgang, Bruce Divis, Jake Peters, Billy Alley, Skip Jackson, Terry McCarl. That’s quite a list of talented drivers. Each and every one of them has played a significant role in building our team to what it is today. To each of them I am very grateful for their contributions and efforts. Thanks guys!
Now it is time to add a new name to the list….a young name to the list. After some brief trial runs in 2008, I am pleased to announce that Chad Humston, from Giltner, NE will be piloting the famed 1m Banana Wagon in 2009. I know that Chad is excited for the opportunity and we are all eager and looking forward to racing with him this year. It’s going to be great to have him as a part of this team.
This is a time where many teams are folding or scaling back. Here at Mark Burch Motorsports, we have worked hard to put ourselves in a position to be stronger than ever for the upcoming season. We have been fortunate to have great relationships with all of our marketing partners and manufacturers throughout the years. We will continue to represent them in a positive manner and gain them maximum exposure through our efforts.
If you would like to see some highlights of Chad in the Banana Wagon from 2008, you can find them on www.youtube.com. Here are the links: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6A2PgmX9E8 and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-lc4BtD3Rs
We are currently working on our schedule and plan on starting out in April. Of course it will be adjusted for family and business commitments but I urge you all to keep your eye out for the Banana Wagon at race track near you.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
I-80 ProAm Drivers Meeting
From I-80 Speedway:
We will be having a rules meeting Tuesday January 6th at Quaker Steak and
Lube in Council Bluffs, the meeting will start at 7pm.
Here are a few things we will be discussing.
Pro Am Rules Meeting
1. IMCA Stock car 3100lbs plus siping of the tires
2. Pro Stocks leave the rules as they are
3. Minus 100lbs on all Pro Ams options
4. Allow Bert & Brinn Transmissions with 100 or 150lbs added
Hobby Stock will be able to compete with the Pro Ams with the following:
must be IMCA rules except: may run a stock 4bbl carburetor and intake, may
run a Hobby Stock tire, Stock Car tire or a Pro Am tire
This is what we will be discussing. You must have raced at I-80 last year in
one of theses classes to be able to have a say or vote. The vote will be
Tuesday Jan. 6th 2009 at Quaker Steak and Lube at 7pm, if you are unable to
make it and you did race at I-80 last year call the office and we will fax
you a ballot. The vote will be final Wednesday Jan. 7th 2009
DRIVERS ONLY MAY VOTE
Office Phone 402-342-3453
A good year for entertainment?
Something lighthearted to end the year...
According to Chinese Astrologers, 2009, The Year of the Ox will be good to
the entertainment industry. Yin soil is supposed to be beneficial to wood
one of the five core elements.
From the article:
"Next year will also be good for professions that are related to wood,
paper, and energy, including fashion, news media, entertainment, oil and air
travel, said Lo.
"Mak Ling-ling, a celebrity astrologist and feng shui master, said the
financial markets would be very quiet next year and economic problems would
be particularly acute in the west. 'Businesses will be even worse than now.
Social order will be disturbed, with the number of fraud cases will rise,'
she said, but added that the situation would improve after next year."
Of course we all know by now auto racing is part of the entertainment
industry. So if 2009 is good enough for Chinese Astrologers, then it's good
enough for me (grin).
Hell, I'll take all we can get!
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
I-80 Banquet Tix
From I-80 Speedway
I-80 Banquet is only a week a way and tickets are going fast, call the office to get yours now so you won't be left out in the cold. Office phone 402-342-3453
I-80 Banquet is only a week a way and tickets are going fast, call the office to get yours now so you won't be left out in the cold. Office phone 402-342-3453
Site update
Been having some issues with the content provider (blogger) and publishing. Hopefully it's worked out - but there may be delays.
Sad news for a young race fan
Via Gary Dominguez
Isaac Hall, the young race fan we honored on Eagle Kids night after his bone marrow transplant is losing his battle with his disease.
On Kid's night, there was a huge banner displayed, and signed by drivers, crew, and fans alike. It was presented to him in his hospital room.
Here's a link to the website Called www.caringbridge.com which is the personal website set up by Isaac's Family to let friends know his progress. Please visit it, and perhaps you may even want to sign the guestbook. Isaac Hall Caring Bridge
Thanks to all of the Drivers, and Fans that gave some joy to this young racefan, and kept him in your prayers!
Isaac Hall, the young race fan we honored on Eagle Kids night after his bone marrow transplant is losing his battle with his disease.
On Kid's night, there was a huge banner displayed, and signed by drivers, crew, and fans alike. It was presented to him in his hospital room.
Here's a link to the website Called www.caringbridge.com which is the personal website set up by Isaac's Family to let friends know his progress. Please visit it, and perhaps you may even want to sign the guestbook. Isaac Hall Caring Bridge
Thanks to all of the Drivers, and Fans that gave some joy to this young racefan, and kept him in your prayers!
2009 Wish List Part One of...
For the past few years, I've done a list - usually well after the start of the calendar year with the excuse that the year really starts with the first race of the season. This year I'll really do a list before the end of the calendar year.
So, let's start with my 2009 Wish List
1. Everyone comes through this recession OK. It ain't gonna be pretty. I think it's painfully obvious that we'll not only lose cars due to the recession, but it's a very real possibility we could lose a track, even temporarily. All signs point to no racing at Thayer County and Red Cloud is still dormant according to the talk on dirtdrivers.com. While I have nothing to justify this, I'm not sure we haven't hit the low-water mark already given we've seen a lot of attrition already. If the tracks can get through this season, the worst may be over.
2. Beatrice's Friday move works. A lot of people criticized it, and after decades of Saturday night racing it's easy to see why. But as I've said before, standing by just hoping for the best wasn't going to fix anything, something had to be done. It could be argued that in recent years some of the most competitive modified racing in the midwest - in terms of talent - took place at the Gage County Fairgrounds. Certainly there's been a bit of a rivalry between the fans and competitors (or more likely their spouses) of Eagle and Beatrice, and each track has been known for years as the place where the guy p'ed off at the other track goes to race. Hopefully both car counts benefit.
On a side note: Speaking of small towns, photographer and Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame member Joe Orth had a great observation: the overall decline of small towns, both economically and population-wise, could be having an effect on car counts at tracks distant from major population centers. As jobs and people migrate to the larger cities the base of people to race the "old hot rod" in the small towns is dwindling, not to mention the local fan base as well. I can't fault the logic and...I don't see the end of it anytime soon.
3. Tracks should race the classes they have. I just don't see the need for any more classes to be created. We are far removed from the boom period of the early 2000's where we could grow class after class. Now, you don't add to one without pulling from the other. If you have to add another class, eliminate the weak one. If Class "A" isn't getting it done, instead of adding lower class "B," can the A and run nothing but B...or vice versa, even if it means the lower class stepping up to the next one. Just because you can't afford all the goodies the front runner has doesn't mean you can't afford to race. Promoters, racers and sanctioning bodies have confused the two for too long. Just like all the other facets of life we've been cutting back on, yet still finding a way to make do, so can many of these racers. Maybe it's running that car one more year, getting another night out of the tire, buying used, or going with a few less graphics. If it makes you happy, just think of it as another meaning to the phrase "run whatcha brung." To those fearing the drop at the back gate: if they want to race that bad, they'll find a way - otherwise how long were they really going to feed your back gate anyway? That said though, I hope to see...
4. Good tracks. Bad track conditions, bad officiating, bad tech, etc. can ruin a program. Bad tracks tear up cars (and wallets), bad officiating leads to on-track issues that usually result in damaged gear, bad tech lets costs run amok, competition suffers and racers go packing. I would feel safe in assuming that the majority of the people who leave a track do so because of one of those three reasons, even more so than the cost of competition, and maybe even more than purse. Yes, there's always the few that think they've been screwed over no matter where they go and are usually very vocal about it, but really you can count them on one hand. Most just pick up and go - especially the fans.
I'll probably add some more (after the first of the year...)
So, let's start with my 2009 Wish List
1. Everyone comes through this recession OK. It ain't gonna be pretty. I think it's painfully obvious that we'll not only lose cars due to the recession, but it's a very real possibility we could lose a track, even temporarily. All signs point to no racing at Thayer County and Red Cloud is still dormant according to the talk on dirtdrivers.com. While I have nothing to justify this, I'm not sure we haven't hit the low-water mark already given we've seen a lot of attrition already. If the tracks can get through this season, the worst may be over.
2. Beatrice's Friday move works. A lot of people criticized it, and after decades of Saturday night racing it's easy to see why. But as I've said before, standing by just hoping for the best wasn't going to fix anything, something had to be done. It could be argued that in recent years some of the most competitive modified racing in the midwest - in terms of talent - took place at the Gage County Fairgrounds. Certainly there's been a bit of a rivalry between the fans and competitors (or more likely their spouses) of Eagle and Beatrice, and each track has been known for years as the place where the guy p'ed off at the other track goes to race. Hopefully both car counts benefit.
On a side note: Speaking of small towns, photographer and Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame member Joe Orth had a great observation: the overall decline of small towns, both economically and population-wise, could be having an effect on car counts at tracks distant from major population centers. As jobs and people migrate to the larger cities the base of people to race the "old hot rod" in the small towns is dwindling, not to mention the local fan base as well. I can't fault the logic and...I don't see the end of it anytime soon.
3. Tracks should race the classes they have. I just don't see the need for any more classes to be created. We are far removed from the boom period of the early 2000's where we could grow class after class. Now, you don't add to one without pulling from the other. If you have to add another class, eliminate the weak one. If Class "A" isn't getting it done, instead of adding lower class "B," can the A and run nothing but B...or vice versa, even if it means the lower class stepping up to the next one. Just because you can't afford all the goodies the front runner has doesn't mean you can't afford to race. Promoters, racers and sanctioning bodies have confused the two for too long. Just like all the other facets of life we've been cutting back on, yet still finding a way to make do, so can many of these racers. Maybe it's running that car one more year, getting another night out of the tire, buying used, or going with a few less graphics. If it makes you happy, just think of it as another meaning to the phrase "run whatcha brung." To those fearing the drop at the back gate: if they want to race that bad, they'll find a way - otherwise how long were they really going to feed your back gate anyway? That said though, I hope to see...
4. Good tracks. Bad track conditions, bad officiating, bad tech, etc. can ruin a program. Bad tracks tear up cars (and wallets), bad officiating leads to on-track issues that usually result in damaged gear, bad tech lets costs run amok, competition suffers and racers go packing. I would feel safe in assuming that the majority of the people who leave a track do so because of one of those three reasons, even more so than the cost of competition, and maybe even more than purse. Yes, there's always the few that think they've been screwed over no matter where they go and are usually very vocal about it, but really you can count them on one hand. Most just pick up and go - especially the fans.
I'll probably add some more (after the first of the year...)
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, December 17, 2008
Butler County Motorplex 2009 Schedule
From Butler County Motorplex
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all! We have the tentative schedule
for the 2009 season. We will run IMCA Modifieds, Sport Mods, Hobby Stocks,
and Sport Compacts. Sunday, April 5th will be our test and tune, which will
start at 2:00. The schedule is as follows:
Regular Nights consist of: Sport Compacts, Hobby Stocks, Sport Mods, and
Modifieds all IMCA sanctioned
April 5th – Practice 2:00
April 17th – Opening Night
April 24th – Regular Night
May 1st – Kids' Night
May 8th – Mothers' Night: 1/2 off admission for moms
May 15th – Regular Night
May 22nd – Family Night
May 29th – Regular Night
June 5th – Regular Night and GOTRAs
June 12th – Regular Night
June 19th – Regular Night with SLMR
June 26th – Car Pool Night
July 10th – Fan Appreciation Night
July 17th –Regular Night
July 24th – Regular Night
July 31st – Regular Night
August 7th – Regular Night
August 14th – Regular Night
August 21st – Kids' Night
August 28th Season Championship
September 11th – Tribute to 9/11- Sprints (ASCS rules,$2001 to win), IMCA
Modifieds ($911 to win),GOTRAS, OVL
Additions to come as scheduled!
O'Reilly Auto Parts Hot Rod Super Nationals Comes to Lincoln
O'Reilly Auto Parts Hot Rod Super Nationals "Cruises" to Lincoln as New Host
City Welcomes Over 1,500 Hot Rods to Celebrate its' 30th Anniversary
City Welcomes Over 1,500 Hot Rods to Celebrate its' 30th Anniversary
(INDIANAPOLIS) - Family Events, an Indianapolis, Indiana based event
producer specializing in automotive events, and the Lincoln Convention and
Visitors Bureau jointly announced a three year commitment to name Lincoln,
Nebraska the new home for the O'Reilly Auto Parts Hot Rod Super Nationals.
The 2009 event will celebrate its' 30th Anniversary in its' new home at
State Fair Park in Lincoln on the weekend of May 29, 30 and 31.
In addition to celebrating 30 years of the Hot Rod Super Nationals, this
"horsepower holiday" will feature people from all over the nation enjoying
everything from cool cars to thrill shows. The three day weekend estimates
to draw crowds of over 20,000, along with over 1,500 hot rods, street
machines, two-wheel drive trucks and muscle car participants. Not only does
this event feature the best of the past, present and future in vehicles ,
but the latest in the aftermarket industry at the Performance Marketplace,
Mickey Thompson Burnout Competition, Miss Hot Rod Super Nationals Contest,
Family Fun Zone, Main Stage, food, games and more. Many new features will
also be added as Lincoln becomes the new home.
Lincoln is a deserving choice as they are no stranger to hosting premier
automotive events produced by Family Events. Lincoln has hosted the Hot Rod
Magazine Power Tour twice and Rod and Custom Magazine Americruise five
times. "The Lincoln Convention and Visitors Bureau has showcased their
talents and have shown time and again they deserve to host a premier annual
automotive event," said Mike Moore, President of Family Events. "Lincoln is
the perfect city for car enthusiasts to drive to and discover all it has to
offer."
"Lincoln is a hotspot for motor enthusiasts." said Jeff Maul, Vice President
and Executive Director of the Lincoln Convention and Visitors Bureau.
"Through years of promotion by pioneers in the motor sports industry
including Bill Smith and Speedway Motors, Lincoln is a destination for a
number of motor sports events and will continue to be for many years." Jeff
added, "We're proud to be a part of the continued popularity of motor sports
in the region and look forward to hosting this great event."
While many event details are still in the planning process for information,
tickets, and enthusiasts who want to show their car please visit
www.HotRodSuperNationals.net or call 1¬317-236-6515.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Outlaw Vintage Lites rules meeting
From OVLRS
Come and vote on the rules that will be run at all OVLRS events in 2009. We
will have the new tech inspection sheets and membership sign up forms.
The meeting will be at Sapp Bros at I-80 and Highway 50, at 1:00pm on Dec
14.
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
I-80 Speedway 2009 Classes & Specials
From I-80 Speedway
Classes are: SLMR, NASCAR Late Models, NASCAR PRO AMS, IMCA Sport Mods, IMCA
Mods, Sport Compacts, Crate Late Models we will run on Sundays as we always
have.
We kick off the season April 3rd for practice, April 4th will be a MLRA show
w/ IMCA Mods.
April 10th ASCS Sprint Car Show with SLMR & IMCA Mods
April 11th ASCS Sprint Car Show with NASCAR Late Models & NASCAR Pro Ams.
Specials:
Friday May 22nd: ASCS Sprint Car Show
Sunday May 24th: Alphabet Soup Race
Thursday July 2nd: ASCS Sprint Car Show, MLRA/NCRA
Friday July 3rd: Concert Tentative
Sunday July 5th: Fireworks
Monday August 17th: TnT Husker Nationals Wingless Sprints
Sept 18-20: Cornhusker Classic
We will post rest of the schedule in 2 weeks as we are still fine tuning it.
We will be adding a couple dates with Cup Stars and a couple more specials.
We will also have rules meetings in a couple weeks, there will be minor if
any changes to the Pro Ams, there will be some changes in the weight
adjustments and crate engine rebuild for the Late Models.
Beatrice 2009 Factory Stock Rules update
From Beatrice Speedway
The 2009 Factory Stock Rules for the Beatrice Speedway will be following the
2009 I.M.C.A. Stock Car Rules with the following exceptions.
If you are running an aluminum intake it must measure 3.75" from the top of
the block to the top of the intake for GM and Ford, and 4.25" for Chrysler
products.
All Factory Stocks will run the 4412 carburetor, no exceptions. The weight
limit will be 3100 lbs. You may run a maximum of a 4" hood scoop and a 6"
spoiler.
In 2009, you can run new I.M.C.A. stamped Hoosier tires or use the old KK704
for the 2009 season. The 2008 Factory Stock rules can also be followed if
you do not wish to make the changes to the 2009 stock rules for one season.
For further information in regards to the I.M.C.A. Stock Car rules, please
refer to www.imca.com
If you have any further questions, please e-mail racing@beatricespeedway.com
or call promoter Toby Kruse at 515-231-5444.
The Factory Stocks will be running with the Spring Nationals and as part of
Octoberfest in 2009. Please watch the Beatrice Speedway website for further
details and information.
Monday, December 08, 2008
IMCA Champions
Click on image for larger pic
IMCA’s national champions for the 2008 race season included, seated from left, P.J. Egbert, Modifieds; Shannon Anderson, Hobby Stocks; Curt Lund, Sprint Cars; and Dan Rhiley, Sport Compacts. Standing are Bill Smith of Speedway Motors, title sponsor of the IMCA Weekly Racing program; Jason Frankel, Late Models; Rod Snellenberger, Stock Cars; Luke Wanninger, Karl Chevrolet Northern SportMods; Keith White, Southern SportMods; IMCA Vice President of Operations Brett Root; and IMCA President Kathy Root. Not pictured is GM Performance Crate Model champion Jay Bransom Jr. Champions and top rookies were honored at the national awards banquet held Nov. 29 in Lincoln, Neb. (Photo by Wendy Irvine)
IMCA’s national champions for the 2008 race season included, seated from left, P.J. Egbert, Modifieds; Shannon Anderson, Hobby Stocks; Curt Lund, Sprint Cars; and Dan Rhiley, Sport Compacts. Standing are Bill Smith of Speedway Motors, title sponsor of the IMCA Weekly Racing program; Jason Frankel, Late Models; Rod Snellenberger, Stock Cars; Luke Wanninger, Karl Chevrolet Northern SportMods; Keith White, Southern SportMods; IMCA Vice President of Operations Brett Root; and IMCA President Kathy Root. Not pictured is GM Performance Crate Model champion Jay Bransom Jr. Champions and top rookies were honored at the national awards banquet held Nov. 29 in Lincoln, Neb. (Photo by Wendy Irvine)
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Speedway Motors Acquires A-FAB (AFCO)
Lincoln, Neb. – Speedway Motors, Inc. of Lincoln, Neb., America's oldest
speed shop and a trusted source for specialty street rod and racing
products, has acquired A-FAB Corporation of Boonville, Ind.
speed shop and a trusted source for specialty street rod and racing
products, has acquired A-FAB Corporation of Boonville, Ind.
A-FAB Corporation engineers and manufactures premium shocks, springs and
radiators through its AFCO brand, high-quality automotive brakes through its
U.S. Brake brand, and premium exhaust systems through its Dynatech division.
The combination unites two legendary family-owned companies. The combined
companies will offer customers a wider selection of high-quality products
with fast delivery and superior customer service.
Clay Smith of Speedway Motors said combining the strengths of Speedway and
AFCO creates a stronger company.
"Speedway Motors is known throughout the industry for outstanding product
selection, same-day shipping and great customer service," Smith said. "We
are excited about this opportunity as it will greatly benefit our customers.
We have been looking to join forces with a premier specialty automotive
products manufacturer and realized the numerous benefits of adding the AFCO,
Dynatech and U.S. Brake brands and their industry leading reputation. This
combination will enhance both operations and create many new growth
opportunities."
Jeff Scales of AFCO said the transaction ensures AFCO's operations,
management team and employees will remain in Boonville.
"We have been looking for a partner to help grow our high-quality product
line," Scales said. "Speedway, which also is family-owned, is a perfect fit
because each company has unique resources and core strengths that complement
each other. Collectively we plan to make significant capital investments in
our facilities which could result in additional job growth. Our combined
manufacturing, inventory and distribution system will be a tremendous
benefit to customers and suppliers."
Smith said the transaction will close in early December 2008, and that a
smooth, seamless transition is anticipated. Terms of the transaction were
not disclosed.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Promote Now (Long Post)
This editorial has sat on my laptop for months now in various and LONG forms. While I've done edits and notations, sometimes it's best to just start anew.
I've given some thought to this year and some of the things we saw during special events at local tracks. If there was any one common factor its that the crowds were disappointing in most examples. I said MOST, so save the “I was at...and the stands were packed” argument because the line at the beer stand was long. I went to most of the specials and if I didn't go I got photos of the crowds and real eyewitness accounts of others.
Of course the economy, most notably gas prices, took a bite out of most folks entertainment funds and the premium-priced ticket sales suffered as a result. Though the increases were small, per purchase, the totals add up quickly over time.
But lets go back to what a special event is, a one-time deal. To what extent is an increase of a Jackson's worth of dollars over the course of the year to one or two people? How many of you have spent that on a night out (and I'll bet you spent much more). If the trip wasn't too far, say maybe an hour or two, what is that in gas, really? Consider, if your car gets say 20 MPG and gas went up 1.50 over last year, then for an 80 mile round trip, you spent an additional 6 bucks.
What I'm getting at is that for ONE event, for the fan, the spike in gas prices adds up to a hot dog and a Coke. Even if it's an additional 10 bucks, what is that really? You don't have to be swimming in money to realize that 10 bucks over the course of the year is negligible. How much money did you spend on lottery/beer/fast food/expensive coffee/pay per view or any other non-necessities. That's not saying an Outlaw weekend isn't a lot of money, but compared to last year, it's not like that increase was more than a few bucks over last year.
Now, granted, I'm looking at that over the course of a year's time. 10, 20, maybe even 50 bucks this way or that ain't much to most people. Hell, how many scoffed at the Bush economic 'stimulus' plan's $600 check? If it's convenient for a political argument, I'm going to hold you to it.
However, why is the cost of this and that such a hot topic every time a sparse grandstand greets our special events? I think it's because the overall cost – a $20-30 ticket, concessions, and a fill of the tank is a noticeable and significant cost in the IMMEDIATE time frame. Throwing down $100-200 or more in such a SHORT time is noticed much more in the weekend time frame than it is over the year and such a significant amount grabs more of our attention and asks, “what are we paying this kind of money for?”
What's happened is fans are making the decision to attend these events in the short term – a “what to do this weekend” mentality. In that time frame, then yeah – 20 or 30 bucks is a big deal.
I can say this with authority from my time in the business of selling advanced tickets: The busiest times are within a week of the show. People made their decisions, their commitments in the immediate time frame. They're choosing whether or not to spend significant money in the short term.
How many of you budget that big vacation of yours to Florida, Colorado, Disneyland, or even Knoxville well in advance? Why? Because this is a big event, big destination and thus worth the budget.
Now what about the big Outlaws race, what about the Alphabet Soup, the...whatever? Not such a big deal compared to the other things, is it?
So, while other events are worthy of long term planning, and the increased financial commitment, these smaller events aren't worthy of the fan's commitment despite the overall lower cost.
What's happened is that these special events have decreased in significance. They don't demand the long-term planning a Florida vacation does. And when the significance decreases, the long term budgeting decreases, but the perceived expense in the short term is much greater to the consumer. They're looking at a $100 expense between pay periods, not over the course of the year. There's a big difference in the budget to the average consumer.
Promoters have to shift from sunday Sunday, SUNDAY! attitude to summer Summer SUMMER! -state of mentality. Events need to be of significance.
Listen to me now...RACING ALONE ISN'T ENOUGH OF A DRAW ANYMORE. NASCAR learned this a long time ago. That's why they flourished. Promoters have to start promoting these events LONG before the pathetic week before the race message board posts they are doing now.
If the big special makes or breaks their year, why are they promoting it for one or two weeks? If so much is riding on these shows, they demand the kind of effort from the promotion and organization arms of the racetrack.
So, what would I do?
1.Pre-sell tickets, at a significant discount and give incentive to buy early – but with enough time to “save up.” 2009 events need to be on sale before Christmas of 2008. Get the sanctioning body to firm up a date if needed. Book out the schedule, WORK with other tracks if needed. Pre-planning goes a long way and it often spares bad feelings between tracks. Reciprocate if need be.
2.Make the event an EVENT. Make it something that goes on not just on the track, but before and after. If you went on vacation and spent 2 or 3 hours actually doing the vacation activities, wouldn't you feel ripped off? Your 'speed week' should be a 'speed WEEK,' not a speed evening. Concerts, carshows, contests, something to fill the gaps. What about offering coupons or vouchers to the local waterpark, state park, and local attractions in an effort to bring out-of-town fans?
3.Promote that big show from the first race on through, and that last race should be promoting NEXT year's event. The worst thing is your fans saying “I didn't know they were running that...”
It's time to start encouraging your fans not only to plan, but put in their mind that they need to save for the big event. Hype it up, ramp it up and sell it up. It's good for you, it's good for your fans and good for the sport.
I've given some thought to this year and some of the things we saw during special events at local tracks. If there was any one common factor its that the crowds were disappointing in most examples. I said MOST, so save the “I was at...and the stands were packed” argument because the line at the beer stand was long. I went to most of the specials and if I didn't go I got photos of the crowds and real eyewitness accounts of others.
Of course the economy, most notably gas prices, took a bite out of most folks entertainment funds and the premium-priced ticket sales suffered as a result. Though the increases were small, per purchase, the totals add up quickly over time.
But lets go back to what a special event is, a one-time deal. To what extent is an increase of a Jackson's worth of dollars over the course of the year to one or two people? How many of you have spent that on a night out (and I'll bet you spent much more). If the trip wasn't too far, say maybe an hour or two, what is that in gas, really? Consider, if your car gets say 20 MPG and gas went up 1.50 over last year, then for an 80 mile round trip, you spent an additional 6 bucks.
What I'm getting at is that for ONE event, for the fan, the spike in gas prices adds up to a hot dog and a Coke. Even if it's an additional 10 bucks, what is that really? You don't have to be swimming in money to realize that 10 bucks over the course of the year is negligible. How much money did you spend on lottery/beer/fast food/expensive coffee/pay per view or any other non-necessities. That's not saying an Outlaw weekend isn't a lot of money, but compared to last year, it's not like that increase was more than a few bucks over last year.
Now, granted, I'm looking at that over the course of a year's time. 10, 20, maybe even 50 bucks this way or that ain't much to most people. Hell, how many scoffed at the Bush economic 'stimulus' plan's $600 check? If it's convenient for a political argument, I'm going to hold you to it.
However, why is the cost of this and that such a hot topic every time a sparse grandstand greets our special events? I think it's because the overall cost – a $20-30 ticket, concessions, and a fill of the tank is a noticeable and significant cost in the IMMEDIATE time frame. Throwing down $100-200 or more in such a SHORT time is noticed much more in the weekend time frame than it is over the year and such a significant amount grabs more of our attention and asks, “what are we paying this kind of money for?”
What's happened is fans are making the decision to attend these events in the short term – a “what to do this weekend” mentality. In that time frame, then yeah – 20 or 30 bucks is a big deal.
I can say this with authority from my time in the business of selling advanced tickets: The busiest times are within a week of the show. People made their decisions, their commitments in the immediate time frame. They're choosing whether or not to spend significant money in the short term.
How many of you budget that big vacation of yours to Florida, Colorado, Disneyland, or even Knoxville well in advance? Why? Because this is a big event, big destination and thus worth the budget.
Now what about the big Outlaws race, what about the Alphabet Soup, the...whatever? Not such a big deal compared to the other things, is it?
So, while other events are worthy of long term planning, and the increased financial commitment, these smaller events aren't worthy of the fan's commitment despite the overall lower cost.
What's happened is that these special events have decreased in significance. They don't demand the long-term planning a Florida vacation does. And when the significance decreases, the long term budgeting decreases, but the perceived expense in the short term is much greater to the consumer. They're looking at a $100 expense between pay periods, not over the course of the year. There's a big difference in the budget to the average consumer.
Promoters have to shift from sunday Sunday, SUNDAY! attitude to summer Summer SUMMER! -state of mentality. Events need to be of significance.
Listen to me now...RACING ALONE ISN'T ENOUGH OF A DRAW ANYMORE. NASCAR learned this a long time ago. That's why they flourished. Promoters have to start promoting these events LONG before the pathetic week before the race message board posts they are doing now.
If the big special makes or breaks their year, why are they promoting it for one or two weeks? If so much is riding on these shows, they demand the kind of effort from the promotion and organization arms of the racetrack.
So, what would I do?
1.Pre-sell tickets, at a significant discount and give incentive to buy early – but with enough time to “save up.” 2009 events need to be on sale before Christmas of 2008. Get the sanctioning body to firm up a date if needed. Book out the schedule, WORK with other tracks if needed. Pre-planning goes a long way and it often spares bad feelings between tracks. Reciprocate if need be.
2.Make the event an EVENT. Make it something that goes on not just on the track, but before and after. If you went on vacation and spent 2 or 3 hours actually doing the vacation activities, wouldn't you feel ripped off? Your 'speed week' should be a 'speed WEEK,' not a speed evening. Concerts, carshows, contests, something to fill the gaps. What about offering coupons or vouchers to the local waterpark, state park, and local attractions in an effort to bring out-of-town fans?
3.Promote that big show from the first race on through, and that last race should be promoting NEXT year's event. The worst thing is your fans saying “I didn't know they were running that...”
It's time to start encouraging your fans not only to plan, but put in their mind that they need to save for the big event. Hype it up, ramp it up and sell it up. It's good for you, it's good for your fans and good for the sport.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Beatrice Speedway 2009 Schedule
Budweiser IMCA Modifieds
Twin Rivers IMCA Sport Modifieds
Coors Light IMCA Hobby Stocks
JnJ Fabrication Sport Compacts
Risky's Factory Stocks
Twin Rivers IMCA Sport Modifieds
Coors Light IMCA Hobby Stocks
JnJ Fabrication Sport Compacts
Risky's Factory Stocks
Hot laps will be at 6:45 with racing at 7:30
M=IMCA Modifieds, SM=Sport Modifieds, HS=IMCA Hobby Stocks,
SC=IMCA Sport Compacts, FS=Factory Stocks
March
19 - Spring Nationals Open Practice
20 - IMCA Sport Mods, IMCA Modifieds
21 - IMCA Sport Mods, IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Modifieds
22 - IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compacts, IMCA Modifieds
April
11 - WFR Car Show, Open Practice
17 - Season Opener SC,SM,FS,HS, M
24 - SC,SM,FS,HS,M
May
1 - No Racing (Relay For Life)
8 - SC,SM,FS,HS,M
15 - SC,SM,FS,HS,M
22 - SC,SM,FS,HS,M
29 - SC,SM,FS,HS,M
June
5 - SC,SM,FS,HS,M
12 - SC,SM,FS,HS,M
19 - SC,SM,FS,HS,M
26 - SC,SM,FS,HS,M
July
3 - SC,SM,FS,HS,M with fireworks to follow
10 - SC,SM,FS,HS,M
18 - FAIR RACE SM,HS,M
19 - EVE OF DESTRUCTION SC,FS,OVL
24 - SC,SM,FS,HS,M
31 - SC,SM,FS,HS,M
August
7 - SC,SM,FS,HS,M
14 - SC,SM,FS,HS,M
21 - SC,SM,FS,HS,M
28 - SEASON CHAMPIONSHIP SC,SM,FS,HS,M
October
8 - OCTOBERFEST OPEN PRACTICE
9 - SC,HS,SM,M
10 - FS,HS,SM,M
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Eagle Raceway 2009 Schedule
Eagle Raceway posted their 2009 schedule recently:
All dates are tentative.
March
27- Open House Practice Night All Classes Welcome
Racing at: 7:00 pm
28- Ice Breaker Challenge featuring Championship Sprints, IMCA Modifieds,
IMCA Hobby Stocks
Hot Laps: 4:15 pm Racing at: 5:00 pm
April
18- Season Opener featuring Championship Sprints, IMCA Modifieds, IMCA
Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
25- Weekly Racing featuring Championship Sprints, IMCA Modifieds, IMCA
Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
May
2- Weekly Racing featuring Championship Sprints, IMCA Modifieds, IMCA
Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
9- Mothers Day Tribute featuring Championship Sprints, IMCA Modifieds,
IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
16- McDonalds Jr Fan Club Candy Dash featuring Championship Sprints, IMCA
Modifieds, IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
23- Family Appreciation Night featuring Championship Sprints, IMCA
Modifieds, IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
25- Bootleggers Run Race of Champions Tentative featuring , IMCA
Modifieds
30- Weekly Racing featuring Championship Sprints, IMCA Modifieds, IMCA
Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
June
6- Student Breakout Night featuring Championship Sprints, IMCA
Modifieds, IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
13- Fan With A Can Night featuring Championship Sprints, IMCA Modifieds,
IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
20- Fathers Day Tribute featuring Championship Sprints, IMCA Modifieds,
IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
27- Freedom Fest Fireworks Extravaganza featuring Championship Sprints,
IMCA Modifieds, IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
July
4- Eagle Nationals World of Outlaw Sprints featuring World of Outlaw
Sprints, Championship Sprints, IMCA Modifieds
Hot Laps: 6:00 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
11- Christmas in July featuring Championship Sprints, IMCA Modifieds,
IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
18- Weekly Racing featuring Championship Sprints, IMCA Modifieds, IMCA
Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
25- Kids Bike Giveaway Night featuring Championship Sprints, IMCA
Modifieds, IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
August
1- Family Appreciation Night and Kids Bike Races featuring Championship
Sprints, IMCA Modifieds, IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
8- Scout Night and Kids Race Car Rides featuring Championship Sprints,
IMCA Modifieds, IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
15- Tentative Concert
22- McDonalds Jr Fan Club Night Money Dash featuring Championship
Sprints, IMCA Modifieds, IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
29- Season Finale featuring Championship Sprints, IMCA Modifieds, IMCA
Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 6:15 pm Racing at: 7:00 pm
September
6- Nebraska Cup featuring Championship Sprints, IMCA Modifieds, IMCA
Hobby Stocks, IMCA Sport Compact
Hot Laps: 5:00 pm Racing at: 6:00 pm
Monday, November 24, 2008
Turkey Chase Kart Race
From Nebraska Raceway Park management:
The 3rd Annual Turkey Chase Indoor Dirt-Oval Go Kart Race takes in the
Lancaster Event Center November 28,29 & 30. Nothing to do and want to burn
off the turkey? Come on down and enjoy some hi-speed go-kart racing, fun for
the whole family. Tickets are only $10 adults and $5 kids 12 & under and $20
pit passes.
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