Garbarino Teams With Blewett For 2016

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

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Starrett Joins Mystic Missile Racing As Primary Sponsor.
  Legendary NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour car owner Bob Garbarino will be back during the 2016 season with a new driver and national sponsor as he begins his 56th season and will be teamed with another legendary family name in modified racing in Jimmy Blewett.
A new sponsor, the L. S. Starrett Company of Athol, Massachusetts, will be the primary sponsor of the potent team.   Starrett was founded in 1880 and manufactures more than 5000 precision tools, gages, measuring instruments and saw blades for industrial, professional and consumer markets worldwide.
Garbarino said it was a hard choice to tab his next driver but he feels Blewett will fit in fine, despite being away from the modified tour a few years, running the DIRT modified series.
“You never know what is going to work and with Jimmy being away from the tour the past couple of years, I know he is looking to get back and make a good impression. I think the timing is right for Jimmy as a driver and is the right fit for my team.”
Blewett too is equally excited about the prospects of running the No. 4 Mystic Missile. “I have some unfinished business and getting back to the modified tour and winning races, I feel this is the best opportunity at this time.”
“I talked with Bob early in the winter and I told him I was available to drive. I know that Bob had his choice of several top drivers and I am glad that he chose me.” Blewett said.
Blewett comes from one of the first racing families of New Jersey with his father, John, Jr. and his brother, John III, running modifieds and winning at tracks up and down the east coast and Jimmy is hopeful that this new team will bring Garbarino a fourth title and his first.
Garbarino won the modified tour titles in 2007 and 2009 with Donny Lia as the driver and in 2010 with Bobby Santos.
Jim Ballou, the marketing manager for Starrett says “The whole company is excited about the new sponsorship deal with Garbarino and Blewett.”
When we met Bob before our executive board meeting, we knew of his success in his 50-plus years in racing and we feel honored to sponsor a legend in the sport. Bob has a reputation of doing things the right way and that is the way that we at Starrett have done business since 1880.”
Ballou states ”The company will have hospitality tents at races in Bristol, Tennessee, and Loudon, New Hampshire, and is looking forward to thanking the many loyal employees, education partners, distributors and users of Starrett products.
Our valued customers recognize the quality and precision in all Starrett products. We believe that the exposure through NASCAR sponsorship will introduce the Starrett brand to new customers looking for a competitive edge.”
Having a national sponsor such as Starrett is nothing new to Garbarino and he feels that not only will his team benefit from the new sponsorship but that the whole modified tour will reap the rewards of having Starrett on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour.
“I feel that this is a win-win situation for everyone.” Bob said.
 
The Starrett No. 4 will make its 2016 debut at the Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park in Thompson, Connecticut, for the annual running of the Icebreaker, the traditional season opener for the Whelen Modified Tour. Source: NASCAR Home Tracks Intergrated Marketing
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Helliwell Seeks Fourth ACT Title as New Challengers Emerge

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

Waterbury, VT – The American-Canadian Tour (ACT) kicks off its 25^th season of Late Model competition on Sunday, April 10 with the New Hampshire Governor’s Cup 150 at Lee USA Speedway. A talented field is getting ready for the 13-race 2016 season, setting up a wide-open championship battle. Reigning ACT Late Model Tour Champion Wayne Helliwell, Jr. is set to defend his title, but a mix of new challengers and rising stars will fight him at every stop for the $10,000 top prize.

 

Dover, NH’s Helliwell and his Bernhardt Motorsports team put together one of the best seasons in ACT Late Model Tour history in 2015 en route to their third ACT Championship in four seasons. Helliwell captured four wins, including the NH Governor’s Cup at his home track of Lee, and finished in the top-10 in every event. Helliwell became the third driver to win at least three ACT Late Model championships, joining Brian Hoar (8) and Jean-Paul Cyr (7). A fourth championship would further solidify his place among the all-time great ACT drivers.

 

A top group competitors looks to take the crown away. Rowley, MA’s Eddie MacDonald recently filed a full-season entry and will chase the ACT championship for the first time. MacDonald already has a number of ACT wins in part-time competition, including four triumphs in the Bond Auto ACT Invitational, and could be Helliwell’s fiercest challenger.

 

Waterford, CT’s Dillon Moltz and Colchester, VT’s Scott Payea are also on the list of incoming drivers who could contend for the title. Former Granite State Pro Stock Series Champion Moltz was impressive in a handful of ACT events last season, finishing second at Oxford Plains Speedway in July and leading the season finale at Thompson Speedway before an incident on a late restart. Payea returns to full-time ACT Late Model Tour competition for the first time since 2010 behind the wheel of the RPM Motorsports Dodge Charger, which has previously been piloted to multiple ACT championships by both Brian Hoar and Jean-Paul Cyr.

 

Among returning ACT drivers, Windham, ME’s Brad Babb sits as the biggest threat to Helliwell. Babb posted two wins and two runner-up finishes in his first season driving for Joey Laquerre Motorsports, and aims to be even better in 2016. Former ACT Rookie of the Year Brandon Atkins also looks to join the title conversation. Au Sable Forks, NY’s Atkins finished fifth in the final ACT standings in his sophomore season and will try to take another step forward.

 

A number of young and new drivers could also upend the status quo. Kyle Welch had the best season of his ACT career in 2015 and showed the potential to do more. Defending ACT Rookie of the Year Rich Dubeau will look to become a regular top-10 runner. Multi-time White Mountain Motorsports Park winner Ryan Olsen, defending Legend Cars ZMAX Touring Series Champion Devin O’Connell, and former Thompson Speedway regular Mark Jenison will all join the ACT Late Model Tour in 2016 and could turn heads.

 

The 2016 ACT Late Model Tour championship chase gets under way at Lee USA Speedway on Sunday, April 10 with the New Hampshire Governor’s Cup 150. The Northeast Mini Stock Tour and Northeast Classic Lites are also on the card. Post time is 1:15pm. Admission is $25 for adults, $23 for seniors, and $15 for juniors ages 13-16. An open practice session is scheduled for Saturday, April 9.

 

NASCAR Whelen 2016 Schedule

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

DATE	RACE/VENUE	POLE	WINNER	RACE DAY LINKS
Apr 10	Icebreaker 150 Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park
Apr 24	NAPA Spring Sizzler 200 Stafford Motor Speedway
May 14	Waterford 161 New London-Waterford Speedbowl
Jun 3	TSI Harley-Davidson 125 Stafford Motor Speedway
Jun 15	Mr. Rooter 125 Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park
Jun 25	Riverhead 200 Riverhead Raceway
Jul 15	All-Star Shootout (non-points) New Hampshire Motor Speedway
Jul 16	New England 100 New Hampshire Motor Speedway
Jul 23	Monadnock 200 Monadnock Speedway
Aug 5	Stafford 150 Stafford Motor Speedway
Aug 10	Budweiser King of Beers 150 Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park
Aug 17	Bristol 150 Bristol Motor Speedway
Aug 27	Riverhead 200 Riverhead Raceway
Sep 3	Oswego 150 Oswego Speedway
Sep 10	AnytimeRealty.com 150 Seekonk Speedway
Sep 24	F.W. Webb 100 New Hampshire Motor Speedway
Oct 2	NAPA Fall Final 150 Stafford Motor Speedway
Oct 16	Sunoco World Series 150 Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park

Lutz, Swanson to Step Up on Whelen Tour

Craig Lutz has five Whelen Modified Tour appearances in the two previous seasons. Getty Images for NASCAR

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — After testing the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour waters as part-time participants year ago, drivers Craig Lutz and Matt Swanson are ready to step up to full-time competition and contend for the 2016 Sunoco Rookie of the Year Award.
Lutz, of Miller Place, New York, made his first Whelen Modified Tour appearance in 2014 at New London-Waterford Speedbowl where he has competed in the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series SK Modified division in recent seasons. Last year the 21-year-old, who works as a carpenter on Long Island, made four Whelen Modified Tour starts.
CRAIG LUTZ BIO  |  MATT SWANSON BIO  |  NWMT ROSTER
“I’m really looking forward to it,” Lutz said. “I’m excited for the experience of going to tracks I haven’t been to and getting some seat time there. Hopefully we’ll be able to make a competitive run for Sunoco Rookie of the Year.”
Swanson hails from Acton, Massachusetts. The 16-year-old student debuted on the Whelen Modified Tour in 2015 with five appearances, highlighted by a seventh-place finish in the NAPA Fall Final 150 at Stafford Motor Speedway. His debut at Stafford in August made him the youngest race starter in Whelen Modified Tour history at 15 years, five months and 22 days old. Swanson earned the modified division track championship at Star Speedway in 2014 at age 14 before moving to touring competition last year.
“This year we’re coming into it really prepared,” Swanson said. “We only had one car last year and we used last year as a learning experience. This year we know what to expect and we’re coming back with two open motors from Billy the Kid and two Spafco chassis to see what we can do.”
Swanson, like Lutz, is looking forward to an opportunity to vie for the Sunoco Rookie of the Year Award.
“The driver that earns that award gets some pretty good publicity,” Swanson said. “To earn something like that on the Whelen Modified Tour would really be something to look back on years later. It’s really cool to be able to contend for that.”
The 17-race NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour season will commence with the Icebreaker 150 on Sunday, April 10 at Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park. For 42nd Annual Icebreaker weekend ticket and event information, please click HERE Source: NASCAR Intergrated Marketing

Matt Swanson made five starts as a 15-year-old true rookie in 2015. Getty Images for NASCAR

Mohegan Sun to Once Again Host Thompson’s Championship Awards Banquet

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

(THOMPSON, CT) - Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park officials announced on Friday that the Annual Championship Awards Banquet would return to Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT on Saturday, December 17. The venue played host to the Banquet for the first time last December, bringing the annual event to a new level of excellence with music, improved trophies and the Champions’ cars on display.

Woody Pitkat, last year’s Sunoco Modified champion, enjoyed having the event at Mohegan Sun as it reminded him of the past NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour banquets. “It’s a great facility. We used to go there for the NWMT banquet, before it was moved down to North Carolina, and it was always a great time… It’s great knowing that it’s going to be back there this year.”

“The banquet hosted at the Mohegan Sun Casino put on by the staff of TSMP was an amazing event,” remarked 2015 Late Model Champion, Brian Tagg. “My team and I, my family, and sponsors were so grateful to be honored like we were there. It goes to show you how hard Josh Vanada and his staff at TSMP work to make sure the competitors, sponsors, teams, and families are recognized for all of their hard work and support. I am lucky enough to have been there on the maiden voyage and hope to get back there again!”

This year drivers and teams from all four Thompson NASCAR Whelen All-American Series (NWAAS) divisions will be invited to return to Mohegan Sun, the Official Hotel and Casino of Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park. Tickets will go on sale for the Banquet on Monday, October 24.

The Championship season for Thompson’s NWAAS season will kick off at the 42^nd Annual Icebreaker, April 8-10. Thompson’s own four divisions, the Sunoco Modifieds, Late Models, XtraMart Limited Sportsman and Mini Stocks, will be racing on Sunday afternoon leading up to the first championship event for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour.

For more details about the Icebreaker, or any of TSMP’s other events, be sure to visit their website, www.thompsonspeedway.com, and stay connected with them on Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube. 

New Car and Engine Combination Has Todd Owen Excited for 2016 SK Modified® Season at Stafford Motor Speedway

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

(Stafford Springs, CT)---In many walks of life, change can be an instrument used to help propel someone to new heights.  In the case of Stafford Speedway SK Modified® driver Todd Owen, he is hoping that change can bring him back to NAPA Victory Lane and help him contend for the 2016 track championship.  Owen enters the 2016 season with a new home built chassis, new engine from R.A.D. Auto machine, and he is hoping that the new combination will net him his first trip to NAPA Victory Lane since the 2012 season.  Owen’s #81 car will carry sponsorship from Cooker Construction, Barnes Pools, and Ben Dodge’s Start/Finish Productions.

“Everything is new this year,” said Owen.  “Butch Shea from Chassis Pro, who used to help me out back in my Pro Stock days, has been a big help with building a brand new chassis and we have a new engine from R.A.D. Auto machine.  We’re trying something new this year.  We weren’t unhappy with how things were, it’s just something new.  We have a good balance with the SK’s where there’s a lot of different drivers and cars that can win races and we’re hoping to be one of those teams.  It’s funny, I used to win races every year when I first started racing right up until I got into the SK division at Stafford.  I won a couple of races when I first got started and then went through a little bit of a dry spell until we won again in 2012 on Lincoln Tech night.  Everyone is real excited for the changes we’ve made and seeing what something different can do.  It could work out really good, or I could fall flat on my face, but I think this is the most I’ve looked forward to going racing in a long time.”

While the majority of the SK Modified® field is made up of Troyer and Chassis Dynamics cars with engines from Billy the Kid, Pettit, or T/A Engines, Owen will have a unique combination as he chases the checkered flag which he thinks could work out to his advantage.

“I’m hoping it will be an advantage that my car is not like anybody else’s car,” said Owen.  “It’s both easier and harder when you build your own car but I’m excited about having every piece on the car fresh.  The car I was driving was probably around 9 or 10 years old so it’s been around for a while and we’ve been through it a couple of times.  I definitely think we can get back to victory lane.  I’ve been close the last couple of years, we’ve had a lot of seconds and top-5 finishes, but we’re just missing that last little bit that will get us to victory lane.  Hopefully we can get back on track this season.  First place is only a tenth of a second away.  Usually we’re always in the top-5 of the speed charts, we just need to find another tenth.  We’re always trying things to get faster and we’ve just got to keep trying.”

In addition to his #81 SK Modified machine, Owen will also be paying close attention to the SK Light and Limited Late Model feature events as he has been helping and mentoring David Arute with his #75 SK Light car and Bryan Narducci, who is taking over the reigns of Arute’s #28 Limited Late Model machine.  It’s been a busy winter at Owen’s shop in Somers and he’s anxious to see all of the cars in race action.

“I’ve been helping Bryan and David, just trying to give something back since I’ve had so many people help me out and guide me in the right direction since I got started racing,” said Owen.  “Racing isn’t like basketball where you can just go to a gym, pick up a ball, and start playing.  In racing you have to have the proper tools and knowledge to be successful and both Bryan and David want to learn and working with them has given me a lot of different enjoyment aside from building my own car.  At this point, I’m ready to just see the cars going around the track.  I might have to take a picture of the shop with all four cars gone to see what it looks like.  We’ve been working on my car, David’s car, and Bryan’s car and you have to see what parts and pieces are good and which ones are bad and organizing things accordingly.  I have all my crew coming back and Bryan and David have brought some extra people to help out and sometimes there’s just too many bodies in the shop. I am a little nuts doing this but I think everything is going to be positive this year.  It’s going to be a little hectic but it’s going to be a lot of fun.” 

Owen will have his first opportunity at Victory Lane at the first SK Modified® race of the 2016 season which will be a 45-lap feature commemorating the running of the 45th Annual NAPA Auto Parts Spring Sizzler.  Action gets underway Friday, April 22 with a practice session for Stafford’s weekly divisions and the Mr. Rooter Trucks.  The practice session will be open to the public at no charge.  Action continues on Saturday, April 23 with Coors Light Pole Qualifying for the Whelen Modified Tour cars, along with heat and consolation races for Stafford’s weekly divisions, the U.S. Legend Cars, and the Mr. Rooter Trucks.  Saturday will wrap up with feature events for the SK Light, Limited Late Model, DARE Stock, Legend Cars, and Mr. Rooter Trucks.  Spring Sizzler action continues on Sunday, April 24 with the NAPA Auto Parts Pit Party from 11am-noon followed by Stafford’s SK Modifieds® in a special 45-lap feature and Late Models joining the Whelen Modified Tour in feature action.

Tickets for the “Greatest Race in the History of Spring” are on sale now at the Speedway Box Office.  Tickets are priced at $38.50 for adult general admission tickets, $5.00 for children ages 6-14, and children ages 5 and under are admitted free of charge when accompanied by an adult. Reserved seating will be priced at $42.00 for all ages.  All ticket prices include 10% CT Admission Tax.  Discount Tickets will be available at all 57 participating NAPA Auto Parts stores beginning on Monday April 4^th.  For a full list of the 57 locations throughout Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Rhode Island, call the speedway office or visit us on the web at www.staffordmotorspeedway.com/participating-napa-auto-parts-stores

For more information on the 45th Annual NAPA Auto Parts Spring Sizzler, or to order tickets, contact the Stafford Motor Speedway track office at 860-684-2783 or visit us on the web at www.staffordspeedway.com.

Glen Reen Teams With Rob Russell for 2016 Late Model Season at Stafford Motor Speedway

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

(Stafford Springs, CT)---When Stafford Speedway’s Late Model division takes the green flag during 45^th Annual NAPA Spring Sizzler Weekend to kick off the 2016 season, there will be a new team combination as part of the starting grid.  Modified veteran Glen Reen has teamed up with Rob Russell to take over the driving duties of the #31 LifeCare Family Chiropractic Chevrolet.  Both parties are excited about the possibilities that await the new combination when they hit the track with the #31 Late Model machine.

“We ran a limited schedule with Rick Lanagan the past couple of years and now we’re definitely looking to get some more track time with Glen in the #31 car, build up some points and a handicap, and run with the big boys,” said Russell.  “I’ve had some good success in the past in the Spring Sizzler with J.J. Hill, we were able to win the race back in 2013, and we’re hungry to get another Sizzler win with Glen behind the wheel.”

“I’m pretty excited,” said Reen.  “I really have to thank Rob for the opportunity to drive the #31.  I’ve never run a full fendered car other than an ARCA and K&N test that I did down south.  All in all it’s a racecar and I think I’ll be able to adapt to it pretty quickly and we’re really excited for the season to get started.”

Going into the 2016 season, the plan is for the #31 car to run 12 races during the 2016 season, but Russell and Reen both say that if they can find additional sponsorship, they could run the full schedule and make a run at the track championship.

“Our goal is to try to hit our target of 12 races this season,” said Russell.  “It all comes down to if we can get some more funding in time for this season then we can do more races this year.  We’d love to be able to run for the championship.  The team has been working hard on making sure everything is ready to go regardless of what our schedule turns out to be and we have lots of spare parts ready to go.  LifeCare Family Chiropractic is on board and they’re really excited about having Glen as the driver.  We have some feelers out there to other potential sponsors and we’re hoping we can find some additional sponsorship.  Now that we’re making this announcement, we’re hoping that some folks might see this and think it would be a good combination to be a part of.”

“If we end up doing really well and we can find some extra sponsorship money, we could run the whole season and go for the championship,” said Reen.  “Our goal is to win races but it’s a new car, it’s heavier than a modified, and it has less tire.  I have thousands of laps here at Stafford and I don’t want to count out a win, but I also want to log laps and learn.  We’re here to learn, have some fun, and try to win some races.  I would say the fact that the Late Model has less grip is going to be the biggest challenge.  I’ll have to back up the corner entry a little, I can’t carry modified speed into the corner in the Late Model because I won’t make it.  I’ve been visiting the shop and we all get along so we have a really good team morale and one of the things I’m most excited about is me being an outsider to the Late Model.  Coming from modifieds, I might say the car is perfect where another driver in Late Models might say the car is either X, Y, or Z.  I’ll be looking at things with an open mind where more familiar guys might be closed minded so what you don’t know doesn’t hurt you and the more you know might hurt you.  We have a good vibe going between us, they’re a fun bunch of guys, and I think we’re going to have a really good time.”

While Reen has been primarily a modified driver during his racing career, it was a chance encounter at last year’s NAPA Fall Final that led to Reen and Russell first working together and Reen landing the driver’s seat for the 2016 season.

“It was fall final last year and we were having some issues with the drivability of the car,” said Russell.  “We thought let’s put another driver in the car and see what they give for feedback.  We were trying to figure out who we were going to put into the car and one of our crew guys Billy brought up Glen’s name and after a few conversations and dinners during the winter, here we are this season with Glen as our driver.  The team is ecstatic and everyone feels like Glen’s an accomplished driver who is very professional and knows how to handle himself.  The whole team has done a 180 in terms of their excitement level and we’re all looking forward to getting started.”

Reen and Russell will kick off their Late Model partnership with the 45th Annual NAPA Auto Parts Spring Sizzler on April 22-24.  Tickets for the “Greatest Race in the History of Spring” are on sale now at the Speedway Box Office.  Tickets are priced at $38.50 for adult general admission tickets, $5.00 for children ages 6-14, and children ages 5 and under are admitted free of charge when accompanied by an adult.  Reserved seating is priced at $42.00 for all ages.  As always, Stafford Motor Speedway offers free parking with overnight parking available.  All tickets are good for both Saturday and Sunday admission.  All ticket prices include 10% CT Admission Tax.  Discount Tickets will be available at all 57 participating NAPA Auto Parts stores beginning on Monday April 4^th.  For a full list of the 57 locations throughout Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Rhode Island, call the speedway office or visit us on the web at www.staffordmotorspeedway.com/participating-napa-auto-parts-stores.

For more information on the 45th Annual NAPA Auto Parts Spring Sizzler, or to order tickets, contact the Stafford Motor Speedway track office at 860-684-2783 or visit us on the web at www.staffordspeedway.com.

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Woody Pitkat Ready to Defend NAPA Spring Sizzler Crown With New Team

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

(Stafford Springs, CT)---Last year’s NAPA Spring Sizzler was a dream come true for hometown driver Woody Pitkat as he became the first driver from Stafford Springs to win “The Greatest Race in the History of Spring.”  Pitkat has since changed teams from Buzz Chew’s #88 to Kevin Stuart’s #85 Stuart’s Automotive team and he will go for two in a row with a new team when he takes the green flag in the 45^th Annual NAPA Spring Sizzler on April 24.

“It’s a little frustrating in that it seems every couple of years I’m switching teams,” said Pitkat.  “But doing something different allows me to meet a bunch of new people and have a better relationship with people that I’ve raced against for most of my career.  I’ve been to the shop a couple of times and Kevin’s team works really hard on the car and Kevin has nothing but the best on the car.  I’ve been fortunate enough to find good people and good rides and I’m excited to go back to Stafford and hopefully win or at least be in contention for back to back Sizzler wins with Kevin’s team.  It’s probably going to be a tough feat.  Last year was my second year together with Buzz’s guys and they knew what I liked in a car and the equipment that we had was a big help in winning that race.  It might take a little time for me to get acclimated with Kevin’s guys but races are won at the shop and all of Kevin’s guys are working hard to make the car bulletproof for the 200 laps and we’re going to give it our best to try to win the race.  One thing I do have that’s beneficial is Greg Felton, who was my crew chief with the VMRS car last year, is helping us out and Spot, my old crew chief from Buzz’s team, has gone above and beyond to take some phone calls from me as to what direction to go with the car even though I’m not racing with him anymore.  That just shows the friendship that we have and his help really means a lot to me.  I think we’re going to be in real good shape.”

Although Pitkat may be driving a new car and engine combination he says that there are enough similarities between the #88 car he drove last year and the #85 car that he’ll be piloting this season that the change in teams may not be as big of a challenge as it might look like from the outside.

“The 85 car is a Troyer chassis and it’s kind of like what I had when I was driving the #88 car,” said Pitkat.  “The rear end of the car is more similar to what I had in the #42 VMRS car, so it should be pretty good on the long run.  Kevin has a relationship with Mike Pettit from his VMRS experience and if his Tour motors run as good as his SK motors do, we should be in really good shape.  There’s no reasons why we shouldn’t be good.  Kevin has nothing but the best equipment and it’s all new stuff and they’ve had a lot of success in the VMRS with Todd Szegedy driving the car.  It might just take a little time to get used to new guys and what we want to do on pit road with our pit stops.  We have all the right pieces, we just have to put them together the right way.”

Pitkat will also be looking to turn some heads behind the wheel of the #50 Flamingo Motorsports SK Modified®.  Steve Greer, who Pitkat drove for when he won the 2013 SK Modified® championship, has purchased the #42 VMRS car that Pitkat piloted to 2 Stafford wins and the VMRS championship last season and Pitkat will be driving that same car in the SK Modified® division this season.  If the car drives as good as it did during the three VMRS races at Stafford last season, Pitkat could be among the contenders for the track title this season.

“I’m really excited to see how the car will run as an SK,” said Pitkat.  “If it runs as good as it did last year, I think we might have something for the boys this year.  Steve Greer has given us the car and engine and we’re going to maintain it at Adam Skowyra’s shop.  I won a championship with Steve and then we kind of went our separate ways.  He gave us a motor to use last year and with that motor we were able to give the Skowyra Family their first SK Modified® win so it’s a nice story that we’re all back together again.”

Tickets for the “Greatest Race in the History of Spring” are on sale now at the Speedway Box Office.  Tickets are priced at $38.50 for adult general admission tickets, $5.00 for children ages 6-14, and children ages 5 and under are admitted free of charge when accompanied by an adult.  Reserved seating is priced at $42.00 for all ages.  As always, Stafford Motor Speedway offers free parking with overnight parking available.  All tickets are good for both Saturday and Sunday admission.  All ticket prices include 10% CT Admission Tax.  Discount Tickets will be available at all 57 participating NAPA Auto Parts stores beginning on Monday April 4^th.  For a full list of the 57 locations throughout Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Rhode Island, call the speedway office or visit us on the web at www.staffordmotorspeedway.com/participating-napa-auto-parts-stores.

For more information on the 45th Annual NAPA Auto Parts Spring Sizzler, or to order tickets, contact the Stafford Motor Speedway track office at 860-684-2783 or visit us on the web at www.staffordspeedway.com.

NASCAR fines Kyle Busch $10,000 for skipping media obligations

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

NASCAR fined Kyle Busch $10,000 and placed him on probation through April 27 for not going to the media center after Saturday’s Xfinity Series race.

Getty Image

The Xfinity Series Rule Book states that the winner, runner-up and third-place finisher for an event are required to go to the media center after a race unless excused by NASCAR. Typically, the third-place finisher is excused. Busch, who finished second in the Xfinity race after blowing a tire on the last lap while he led, was not excused.
NASCAR also announced Thursday that it fined Danica Patrick $20,000 and placed on probation for four Sprint Cup events for approaching the racing surface after she crashed in the Sprint Cup race. She walked toward the track to show her displeasure with Kasey Kahne for the contact.
NASCAR did not penalize Busch for his comments on the team’s radio channel after the race. NASCAR also did not penalize crew chief Cole Pearn for his tweet about Joey Logano after Sunday’s race. Pearn later apologized for the tweet.
Busch was upset after Saturday’s Xfinity race when NASCAR did not throw a caution for debris after his right front tire failed on the last lap while leading. Austin Dillon passed Busch on the last corner to win. Busch finished second.
Fox Sports 1 played Busch’s radio communications after the race. Busch said: “Debris all over the race track and they don’t throw a yellow. I’m just so pleased with you, NASCAR. Thanks. You all are awesome. Fixing races.’’
Section 12.8.1.b of the Sprint Cup Rule Book states that a competitor could be fined between $10,000 – $50,000 and/or placed on probation for: “Disparaging the sport and/or NASCAR’s leadership.’’
Also, Kevin Harvick was not penalized by NASCAR for not reporting to the media center after finishing second in Sunday’s NASCAR Sprint Cup race. NASCAR excused him from going.
Source: NBC SPORTS

Audi to NASCAR ?

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

Audi to NASCAR?: While many have speculated that Audi is looking to enter Formula One, NASCAR.com's Matthew Dillner says the German manufacturer is preparing to enter stock-car racing with NASCAR. "I've heard rumors for two years of Audi entering #NASCAR and know the interest has been there," Dillner tweeted on Tuesday. "My prediction is that it will happen." Source: (AutoWeek)(3-23-2016)

Ice Breaker Schedule

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

Congratulations ! My Friends !

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

Congrats to #23-David Ragan and wife Jacquelyn on the birth of their second daughter, Meredith Leigh Regan on Tuesday morning.

Thompson Speedway Motorsports ParkNews

Thompson Speedway Boasts Star Studded Sunoco Modified Field for 2016

(THOMPSON, CT) - As the start of the 2016 racing season nears on April 9-10 for the traditional Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park Icebreaker, the Sunoco Modified field is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent history.

Woody Pitkat returns as the division’s champion in the Stan Mertz owned Sunoco Modified. By virtue of winning the title, Pitkat’s team decided to rebuild the car in time for the championship banquet that was held in December for the first time at Mohegan Sun. Since that time, the car has been ready to race and to begin a title defense.

“It’s been a weird offseason because the car has been ready to go and I haven’t been to the shop all winter,” said Pitkat.

When asked if being separated from the team for five months will impact his on track performance, Pitkat felt it would make the team stronger.

“If anything a long break would only fuel the fire more because the team hasn’t been doing the daily grind. Some people may be rushing and burning the midnight oil, but we are ready to go and to fire on all eight cylinders so it will be more of an advantage to us,” he said.

2014 division champion and defending Icebreaker winner, Ryan Preece, has moved up to the national scene and is competing full time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series for JD Motorsports. Preece is scheduled to be on hand for the season opener driving for Al and Cathy Moniz in the Sunoco Modified division. The husband and wife duo also back Preece’s Xfinity Series car as an associate sponsor with their company Falmouth Ready Mix appearing on the car for all 33 events this season. The remainder of his schedule will be determined on a race by race basis.

Adding his name to the list of regulars for 2016 is Rowan Pennink who hasn’t raced at Thompson full time since 2010 when he too drove for the Moniz family in the 31 machine. Pennick, the reigning SK Modified champion at Stafford Speedway, will replace Keith Rocco in the Ceravolo machine and make the weekly 4 hour drive from his home in New Egypt, NJ to compete at Thompson. Pennink will also be on hand for the Whelen Modified Tour event as he takes over the Boehler Racing No. 3 full time this season.

Rocco, a 4-time Thompson champion will return once again, but not only as a driver. He will also enter as a car owner for rookie Ronnie Williams who will run full time. Williams at just 19 years old has already garnered a lot of attention after a 6 win season at Stafford in 2015. He has never run a Sunoco Modified at Thompson and has only two starts at the track including his first ever SK Lite Modified start in 2011 at only 15 years old. It was the first time he drove anything other than a go kart. However, regardless of William’s inexperience at the Big T, he is expected to be a factor this season.

“I’m not worried at all. Keith’s cars are the best out there so at this point it is all up to me,” said Williams. “Last year I gained a lot of experience and matured a lot. I’m racing against guys I know; Keith, Woody, and Rowan. It’s going to be a new track, but I am definitely looking forward to it.”

Not only is this the first time Rocco will own a car he will race against all season for the drivers championship, it is also the first time Williams will drive a car that isn’t prepared by his family team.

Thompson Speedway opens its gates for the first time this season on Saturday March 26, for an open practice session. The Icebreaker kicks off the season on the weekend of April 9-10. An additional practice day is scheduled for Friday, April 8. For more information on Thompson Speedway news and events, visit www.thompsonspeedway.com. 

Sprint Cup Series News

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

NO NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race this weekend: all three national NASCAR Series (Sprint Cup, XFINITY and Camping World Truck) will not be racing next weekend as all three take off for Easter. Expect entry lists for the Martinsville Sprint Cup and Truck race to be released Monday, March 28th...or so. The XFINITY Series is off until April 8th at Texas.

Penalties coming for Danica, Kyle Busch, Kahne, Pearn? Does NASCAR's competition brass fine Danica Patrick for walking on a hot race track during the Auto Club 400? Do they believe Kasey Kahne's explanation of what happened in the wreck with Patrick? Do they fine Kyle Busch for an in-car radio rant (XFINITY race)? Patrick walked up toward Kahne's car under caution and held out her hands in a "what was that?" fashion as Kahne drove around under caution after turning her and sending her hard into the Auto Club Speedway wall. NASCAR instituted a rule in 2014 after the Kevin Ward Jr. tragedy -- Ward, in a non-NASCAR sprint-car event, walked on to a track and was struck and killed by Tony Stewart, who has said he did not see Ward until the last moment -- and has fined drivers for leaving the area of their cars to motion at drivers as they pedal under caution. Last year, Jennifer Jo Cobb was fined $5,000 for walking up the track during a Camping World Truck Series race at Dover. Sprint Cup fines are typically larger than truck fines, although whether Patrick walked far enough up the track for NASCAR to consider fining her will likely be discussed this week.
Fines and penalties typically now are announced Wednesday afternoon instead of Tuesday afternoon as in previous years. It is unlikely Kahne will face any additional penalties but it is so rare that a driver gets hooked like that, NASCAR probably wanted at least to talk to him.
As far as Busch, he tweeted that he expects a fine this week. That fine most likely will stem from an in-car radio rant after the Xfinity Series race where he thanked NASCAR for fixing the race by not throwing a caution for his flat tire on the final lap. Busch declined to talk to the media after the race Saturday and tweeted Sunday night in response to a fan comment that "By not doing interview, I'll b getting a discount on my fine on Tuesday."Source: NASCAR Intergrated Marketing

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series News

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

Superman (Johnson) wins at Auto Club: #48-Jimmie Johnson, running a Superman paint scheme, won the Auto Club 400 Sprint Cup Series race at Auto Club Speedway for his 2nd win of the season, 6th win at Auto Club Speedway (the most of any driver) and 77th career win, which allows him to pass Dale Earnhardt (76 wins) for 7th all time. #4-Kevin Harvick led the most laps 142 of 205 laps. The race ended in NASCAR Overtime when #18-Busch had a tire go down with two laps left in the race. Harvick led the race when the caution came out. All the leaders made pit stops for new tires, Harvick came out 2nd and #11-Hamlin came out with the lead. Johnson came out 3rd but took the lead on the first overtime lap and kept the lead to win the race.
#4-Harvick finished 2nd, followed by #11-Hamlin, #22-Logano, #17-Stenhouse Jr., #24-Elliott (best career finish), #19-Edwards, #47-Allmendinger, #2-Keselowski and #1-McMurray.
#88-Batman (Earnhardt Jr.), was never a factor but was able to finish 11th. The pole winner, #3-Austin Dillon ended up with a 24th.
There were two hard wrecks. The first was on lap 46 when #42-Larson had a rear tire go down, causing his car to slap the outside wall, which then shot the car across the track, with no brakes, hard into the SAFER wall on the inside wall. Larson was OK.
On lap 120, #10-Patrick was running 19th when she passed #5-Kahne. Kahne came down after the pass, but misjudged and clipped the #10 rear end, causing it to spin and slam the outside wall. Patrick was OK, but not happy.
There were 26 lead changes among 8 drivers and 6 cautions for 33 yellow flag laps.
The average speed was 137.213mph.

No Race on Easter, any of the top three divisions.

2016 NASCAR Sprint Cup Points (not CHASE) Standings: [after Auto Club, race 5 of 36]
1) #4-Harvick [1 win], 195
2) #48-Johnson [2 wins], 184, -11
3) #19-Edwards, 171, -24
4) #11-Hamlin [1 win], 170, -25
5) #18-Busch, 170, -25
6) #22-Logano, 165, -30
7) #41-Busch, 148, -47
8) #88-Earnhardt Jr., 145, -50
9) #2-Keselowski [1 win], 142, -53
10) #3-Dillon, 139, -56
Source: (NASCAR Integrated Sports Marketing)(3-21-2016)

Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park Partners with Ellis Tech

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park (TSMP) is excited to announce a partnership with Ellis Tech’s Automotive Technology program, offering a unique experience for students to find out what it’s like working on a real race car crew. This program is designed to help fuel a passion for racing in the next generation, and provide hands-on learning opportunities not available elsewhere.

The program is a collaboration between Taylor Therrien from TSMP, Brian Mignault, the Principal of Ellis Tech, and Brendan Smith, the Automotive Tech Program Director. The program will partner participating students with one of TSMP’s race teams. By working with a single team over the course of the season, the student will have the opportunity to develop a relationship with them, and learn about different parts of the job of a crew member. The jobs they are given will be decided by the crew chief, and can range from working on damaged body panels, changing car set-up or helping the spotter communicate with the driver. If the relationship is successful, there may be opportunities for the program to turn into a more permanent arrangement for the students.

Students will be required to commit to at least 5 races of the season, and in return will receive free admission to the events. Some of the teams participating include past champions, such as 2015 Late Model crown winner, Brian Tagg. 

NASCAR XFINITY Series News

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

Austin Dillon wins XFINITY race at Auto Club: #2-Austin Dillon won the TREATMYCLOT.com 300 at Auto Club Speedway. It is his 7th XFINITY Series win and 1st of the year. #18-Kyle Busch finished second, followed by #6-Darrell Wallace, Jr., #19-Daniel Suarez, #1-Elliott Sadler, #88-Kevin Harvick, #62-Brendan Gaughan, #42-Kyle Larson, #33-Brandon Jones, and #7-Justin Allgaier.
Kyle Busch led 133 of the 150 laps and was leading on the final lap, but cut a tire down going into turn 1. He was briefly passed by Suarez, who then ran out of gas on the backstretch. Busch retook the lead but Dillon passed him coming off turn 4 to take the win. It was the only lap Dillon led all day.
There were just 4 cautions for 16 laps and 12 lead changes among 8 leaders.
The average speed was 143.008mph.

Connecticut Modified graduate 01 Ryan Preece stated 25th and finished a dismal 24th two laps down again and earned 17 points. The standings are in and Preece sits 17th with only 80 points and -102 back

XFINITY Driver standings following Auto Club:
1) #19-Daniel Suarez, 182
2) #1-Elliott Sadler, 172, -10
3) #7-Justin Allgaier, 163, -19
4) #33-Brandon Jones, 161, -21
5) #3-Ty Dillon, 159, -23
6) #62-Brendan Gaughan, 154, -28
7) #20-Erik Jones, 152, -30
8) #6-Darrell Wallace, Jr., 134, -48
9) #16-Ryan Reed, 133, -49
10) #48-Brennan Poole, 130, -52
11) #11-Blake Koch, 122, -60
12) #43-Jeb Burton, 121, -61

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series News

Posted by Wayne G. Barber   Austin Dillon wins Auto Club pole: #3-Austin Dillon won the Coors Light pole for the Auto Club 400 Sprint Cup Series race at Auto Club Speedway with speed of 188.482mph for his 1st pole of 2016, 1st at Auto Club and 2nd of his career. Dillon's previous best starting spot at Auto Club was 20th in 2014. #11-Hamlin set the new track record of 188.511 in the 2nd round.
#4-Harvick is on the outside pole followed by #11-Hamlin, #31-Newman, #19-Edwards, #18-Busch, #6-Bayne, #24-Elliott, #22-Logano, #1-McMurray, #47-Allmendinger and #5-Kahne.
#5-Kahne failed to get to the start-finish line in time and got no time and will start 12th.
#2-Keselowski was fastest in the first round with a speed of 188.482mph and will start 15th.
#11-Hamlin topped the second round with a track record speed of 188.511mph.


Again for the 4th consecutive weeks only 39 cars were entered so everyone made the race.

Auto Club Speedway - Qualifying Fast Facts: #3-Austin Dillon won the Coors Light Pole Award for the 20th Annual Auto Club 400 with a lap of 38.200 seconds, 188.482 mph.
This is his second pole in 90 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races.
This is his first pole and third top-10 start in 2016.
This is his first pole in three races at Auto Club Speedway.
#4-Kevin Harvick (second) posted his fourth top-10 start of 2016 and his eighth in 23 races at Auto Club Speedway.
#11-Denny Hamlin (third) posted his ninth top-10 start at Auto Club Speedway. It is his third in five races this season.
#24-Chase Elliott (eighth) was the fastest qualifying rookie.
Source: (NASCAR Statistics)(3-18-2016)

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series News

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

Entry List for the Auto Club 400 Sprint Cup Series race at Auto Club Speedway is posted, 39 teams/drivers [for 40 spots] are listed, including: #14-Vickers, #21-Blaney*, #30-Wise*, #32-Jeffrey Earnhardt, #95-McDowell, #98-Whitt*.
Drivers who are not a Charter team, an Open Team, and must get in via speed: #21-Blaney, #30-Wise, #98-Whitt
Drivers who would miss the race if qualifying is canceled (least race attempts, then owners pts): none
Since only 39 cars are entered, all drivers will make the race, 40 is the maximum.
* Open Team (no Charter)

Auto Club Track Notes & History: Groundbreaking for California Speedway, as Auto Club Speedway was originally known, took place in November 1995.
· The first race at Auto Club Speedway was a NASCAR K&N Pro Series, West race won by Ken Schrader on June 21, 1997.
· The first NASCAR Sprint Cup race was held on June 22, 1997 and won by Jeff Gordon.
· September 2004 was the first night race at Auto Club Speedway and that also was the first year both the NASCAR Sprint Cup and NASCAR Nationwide Series ran two races in a season there.
· The track name was changed to Auto Club Speedway (ACS) in February of 2008.
Source: (NASCAR) Intergrated Marketing Press Release

Daniel Suarez Rising International Xfinity Star

Posted By Wayne G. Barber

Daniel Suarez

Welcome to the Club

HUNTERSVILLE, North Carolina (March 15, 2016) – Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California is the next stop for the NASCAR XFINITY Series. It marks the third and final race of the “West Coast Swing” for NASCAR’s top two touring series and the final race before both the XFINITY and Sprint Cup tours enjoy the week off in observance of the Easter holiday.

 

Driver Daniel Suarez will compete at Fontana while also making a debut of sorts as part of another exclusive “club” as he officially becomes one of the Interstate Batteries band of drivers.

 

As the founding partner and “Official Battery of Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR),” Interstate Batteries has been powering the team for 25 years. Since 1992, JGR’s first full season in NASCAR, Interstate Batteries has played an integral role in the organization’s development from start-up race team to championship powerhouse. Suarez is just the latest driver to join the past and present lineup of Hall of Fame, championship and race-winning drivers that includes Dale Jarrett, Bobby Labonte, Mark Martin, Kyle Busch, Denny Hamlin and Joey Logano.

 

Saturday’s TreatMyClot.com 300 XFINITY Series race is the first of two in which Suarez will race the colors of Interstate Batteries. The October race at Dover (Del.) International Speedway is the other.

 

And although the 2016 XFINITY Series season is still in its infancy, Suarez looks poised to assume a few of the monikers used to describe his Team Interstate Batteries counterparts.
The native of Monterrey, Mexico goes into the TreatMyClot.com 300 race weekend as the championship points leader. It is the second consecutive week for Suarez to lead the series. He started his 2016 campaign with four consecutive finishes of eighth place or better, including a runner-up finish at Las Vegas Motor Speedway two weeks ago and a third-place effort last week at Phoenix International Raceway. He owns an eight-point lead over second-place Elliott Sadler and aims to tighten his grasp on the top spot at a track Suarez labeled as one of the most challenging he faced during his rookie season in 2015.

 

For his part, Suarez’s trip to the sweeping, 2-mile Southern California track last season for the XFINITY Series event is his lone start at Fontana in any series. Any challenges that may have thwarted Suarez were somewhat masked by the respectable 13th-place finish he earned after starting ninth. He will be looking to improve upon the top-15 effort from 2015 at Fontana – something he’s done at the majority of tracks he’s had the opportunity to visit for a second time.

 

Dating back to last October’s race at Dover, Suarez has finished 10th or better in the last 10 XFINITY Series events. And all but the event at Kansas Speedway in Kansas City came at tracks Suarez visited for at least a second time.

 

It’s a trend that Suarez intends to not only continue this weekend in Fontana but also potentially top by scoring his first career victory in XFINITY Series competition.  


DANIEL SUAREZ, Driver of the No. 19 Interstate Batteries Toyota Camry for Joe Gibbs Racing: 

What challenges does Auto Club Speedway present? “Fontana is a lot of fun. It’s a big racetrack – 2 miles and not a lot of grip, but it has been pretty fun. I had the pleasure to spend a few days over there with the media a couple of weeks ago. It seems like everyone is super excited to have us over there. Like I said, for me, this whole trip to the West Coast with everyone has been great and unbelievable so far this year. We’re just looking forward to keep going with what we are doing right now with the good momentum on the West Coast and are looking forward to getting our first win.”   You’re going back to a lot of these tracks for just a second time. Is that a lot easier than the initial visit? “For sure, it is. I would like to say that California was one of the toughest racetracks that I had last year – for grip, it was fast, it was early in the season, and I didn’t have a lot of experience at that point. So it was tough. Right now, it’s one of the racetracks I’m really looking forward to because I think that racetrack was a challenge for myself and I want to see how much we’ve improved from last year at a track that was pretty challenging for us.”   What does it mean to you to have the Interstate Batteries colors on your car this weekend? “It’s very exciting. I have very supportive sponsors and now Interstate Batteries has come on board with us. They have meant a lot to Joe Gibbs and the whole race team and being where we are today. This is the 25th anniversary and I’m just super excited to have them on board for California.”  Meet the No. 19 Interstate Batteries/Joe Gibbs Racing Team Car No.: 19 – Interstate Batteries Toyota Camry     At-Track PR Contact: Penny Copen Fender with True Speed Communication 704.875.3388 ext. 810 or Penny.Copen@TrueSpeedCommunication.com Road Crew Members:   Driver: Daniel Suarez   Crew Chief: Scott Graves   Car Chief: Chris Meyers   Engine Builder: Mark Cronquist   Engine Tuner: Roger Purcell   Spotter: Curtis Markham   Shock Specialist: Dustin Zacharyasz   Tire Specialist: John Lanham   Engineer: Chris Whitenight   Mechanic: David Rudy   Mechanic: John Egbert Jr.   Truck Driver: Steve Fielder Pit Crew Members:   Front Tire Changer: David Mayo   Front Tire Carrier: Kevin Harris   Gas Man: Kenneth Purcell   Rear Tire Changer: Kip Wolfmeir   Rear Tire Carrier: Matt VerMeer   Jack Man: Trey Burklin

    

Daniel Suarez Highlights at Auto Club Speedway:

Saturday's TreatMyClot.com 300 NASCAR XFINITY Series race will be Suarez's second career start at the two-mile track. Suarez qualified ninth for the 2015 XFINITY Series race at Fontana and finished 13th.