Are you ready for some Race Chatter , Outdoor Scene, or Authors Hour Podcasts ?

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

It seems the trend in communications for 2018 will be the growth of Pod-Casting.  I have a burned copy CD of every interview of our three radio programs and pit area for the past 6 years. NASCAR(745 (alone)

Pit crew members, drivers, family and race fans, would you like to listen to our Pod-Casts ?  I will try to keep them edited to about 25-35 minutes with a numbered index catalog.of what's on each one, Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly ?

Let me know here with comments, e-mail us at waynewnri@yahoo.com or a call at 1-401-568-4894

2018 Tri-Track Open Modified Series Schedule

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

2018 TRI-TRACK OPEN MODIFIED SERIES SCHEDULE

• Saturday, May 26: Inaugural Memorial Day 100, Claremont Speedway (Claremont, N.H.)
• Wednesday, June 27: 15th Annual Open Wheel Wednesday, Seekonk Speedway (Seekonk, Mass.+ Boston Louie NEMA Midgets
• Saturday, July 28: SBM 125, Star Speedway (Epping, N.H.)
• Saturday, October 27:  2nd Annual Haunted Hundred, Seekonk Speedway (Seekonk, Mass.)

Source: Tri-Track Open Modified Series

ACT, Thunder Road Announce Supply Agreement Extension with American Racer

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

The ACT Late Model Tour, Serie ACT, and Thunder Road will all continue to use American Racer tires through the 2012 season after a new agreement was reached with the supplier. (Alan Ward photo)>>

Waterbury, Vt. – Officials at the American-Canadian Tour (ACT), Thunder Road, and American Racer Tires announced today they have reached a new agreement for American Racer to continue supplying racing tires to both the touring series and race track. The extension of their previous agreement ensures that American Racer will remain the ACT and Thunder Road tire supplier through the 2021 season.

The ACT agreement includes both the U.S.-based ACT Late Model Tour and the Québec-based Série ACT. The two series currently have 19 combined races officially scheduled for 2018 in the U.S. and Canada. Barre, Vermont’s Thunder Road has a 19-race 2018 schedule planned.

“Our officials and race teams have a great relationship with the people at American Racer,” ACT and Thunder Road co-owner Cris Michaud said. “We believe this extension will be a good thing for all of us.”

American Racer is one of the world’s leading tire suppliers for all forms of auto racing, with distributors throughout the continents of North America, Europe, and Australia. Originally founded in 1915 as McCreary Tire & Rubber Company, the American Racer brand was introduced in 1994, and the company’s tires are now used by numerous race tracks and touring series around the globe.

“We could not be more thrilled to continue to work with ACT and their affiliated tracks,” American Racer Director of Racing Scott Junod stated. “I know Cris Michaud and Patrick Malone are absolutely the right people to continue the legacy of one of the best touring series in North America as well as that of Thunder Road.”

ACT will open its 33^rd season at Lee USA Speedway on Sunday, April 15 with the annual New Hampshire Governor’s Cup 150.  Thunder Road will open its 59^th season of racing on Sunday, April 29 with the 20^th Community Bank 150 featuring the ACT Late Model Tour.

For more information, contact the ACT and Thunder Road offices at (802) 244-6963, media@acttour.com, or media@thunderroadvt.com. You can also learn more online at www.acttour.com, www.thunderroadvt.com, or www.americanraceronline.com.

Mikey Flynn to Challenge For SK Light Rookie of the Year Honors at Stafford Speedway

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

(Stafford Springs, CT)---As the countdown to Stafford Speedway’s NAPA Spring Sizzler® continues, the driver rosters continue to fill up for the 2018 season.  Former Legend Cars driver Mikey Flynn is busy preparing his #54 Hamden Engineering machine to compete for R.A.D. Auto Machine Rookie of the Year honors in the SK Light division in 2018.  The 16-year old Flynn comes to the SK Light division with experience in a wide variety of disciplines, ranging from Wild Thing Karts and Legend Cars on the Stafford Mini Mile to ACT Late Models.  With 2 SK Light starts at Stafford already under his belt, Flynn is ready to tackle the challenge of a full season and he feels like his experience across several different divisions will help accelerate his learning curve as an SK Light rookie driver.

“I can’t wait to get back racing,” said Flynn.  “As soon as I got home from the Fall Final, I was ready to go racing again.  Not racing is pretty boring.  I feel like I already have the big car experience down where most guys coming into the SK Lights it’s their first time in a full size car.  Also when I was racing ACT Late Models, I was racing against some of the best drivers in the Northeast like Keith Rocco, Andy Flannery, and Jason Palmer so racing against that type of competition I think will be an advantage for racing the SK Light.  The most I’ve learned in my racing career has been racing against those guys for 2 years.” 

With the variety of experience that Flynn has accumulated through his young racing career to date, he has his eyes set on winning R.A.D. Auto Machine Rookie of the Year honors and being a contender for the championship in his rookie season.  With Matt Galko, Michael Gervais, Jr., Jeremy Sorel, and just last season Cory DiMatteo all winning SK Light championships as rookie drivers, Flynn feels like contending for the championship is a realistic goal for himself and the #54 team.

“We’re looking to finish up front every week and possibly get a win or two,” said Flynn.  “I’d like to win Rookie of the Year and if we can be contenders for the championship, that would be pretty awesome.  Consistency will be the key because if you can finish every race in the top-10, you can be right there for the championship.  With all the new guys coming up into the division this year like Alexander Pearl, Teddy Hodgdon, and Bryan Narducci, there are guys like Cory DiMatteo and Marcello Rufrano who won races as a rookie so it’s not impossible to do.  I’ve been racing with those guys a long time now, we’re all one big group that can’t seem to get away from one another, and I know what each of them brings to the table and they’re all good drivers.  I think the SK Light field will be one of the best of the last few years and I’ll have to be on my game for sure to get some wins this year.  Keeping the car in one piece will be the biggest thing for me along with the tough competition and patience behind the wheel.”

Not only does Flynn have his 2 SK Light starts to lean on as he prepares for his first full season of SK Light racing, he also utilizes iRacing as a way to help him learn about racing at Stafford.

“I’ve had iRacing for about 5 or 6 years now and it’s very realistic,” said Flynn.  “It’s a big help to be able to practice the track during the week.  Before I went to Stafford last season, I fired up my iRacing and practiced all week and it really helped me figure out the racing line and we were able to just jump out on the track and get going.  At the Fall Final we were top-5 on the speed charts in practice, so I think we’ll be pretty sound to start off this season with the car, we’ll just have to start races in the back of the pack.  Brian Schofield has been turning the wrenches on the car for us and we really couldn’t have done this without him.  He’s taught me everything I know about a modified and he’s been a big part of getting me through the learning and the low points. I would like to thank our sponsors, Hamden Engineering, Ballyheigue Farm, Hamden Fuel, Kahn Tractor, Place Motors and Rick Green Insurance.  I’m excited about the 2018 season.”

Flynn will make his SK Light debut at the 47th Annual NAPA Auto Parts Spring Sizzler® on April 27-29.  Tickets for the “Greatest Race in the History of Spring” are on sale now at the Speedway Box Office.  Tickets are priced at $40.00 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.

Riverhaed , New York 2018 Schedue

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

The 2018 Riverhead Raceway schedule is now posted at www.riverheadraceway.com. The NASCAR WMT stars visit the demanding quarter mile twice on Saturday July 7th and again Saturday September 8th. The 2nd annual Islip 300 is set for Saturday May 26th with the 77-lap Baldwin, Evans & Jarzombek Memorial taking place Saturday July 28th. A total of 20 NASCAR Modified events are planned for '18 and we hope you can join us along the way. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Riverhead Raceway.

Nocella Crowned 2017 Valenti Modified Racing Series Champion

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

 Anthony Nocella of Woburn,MA racked up 5 VMRS victories in the 2017 season which helped him to become the 8th different driver during the 14 year span of the VMRS to be crowned champion.

 

   Saturday December 2nd the Best Western Executive Inn located in Manchester,NH hosted a full gathering for awards, dinner and dancing.

   Nocella thanked his parents for supporting his dream. He also thanked this father and uncle for sponsorship "that allows me to pursue my passion week in week out". Another sponsor that came on board this year was AIRGAS and of course he thanked his hard working crew for their season long dedication. Ed Flemke Jr of Raceworks. Pettit Engines and Billy The Kid were also thanked for their products.

   Nocella said he was proud to have his name on a champions trophy along with the likes of Jon McKennedy, Rowan Pennink, Justin Bonsignore and more.

   Along with the championship trophy and check Nocella received jackets from Dan Anderson of Hoosier East and Charlie Holland of Sunoco Race Fuels.

.

   John Spence Sr., the illustrious voice of the VMRS emceed the nights awards. John has announced for the series since the first event 14 years ago.

   President and founder Jack Bateman also thanked those in attendance for their support in 2017 and especially the support of the Valenti Motor Group for their last 9 years of partnership which will continue into the 2018 season.

   Hoosier Tire, New England Race Fuels, Sherwood Wheels, Waddell Communication, Racing Electronics and Racing with Jesus will also continue their support.

Chris Grey and Ben Dodge were given special thanks for their dedication to the series.

   Annual awards were give to the following:

The Annual Mechanics award went to the entire #92 Nocella Paving / AIRGAS  team.

Rookie of the Year went to second generation driver Jeffery Gallup.

Dedication to the Series was popular Mike Willis Jr.

Tough Luck award went to one of the strong backbones of the series, George Sherman.

Jack's Competition Engines Most Improved driver was awarded to 15 year old Sammy Rameau

Sportsmanship award was collected by Rob Richardi Jr.

And finally the Above and Beyond award went to Series official Bob McIlveen who absolutely goes above and beyond with his series duties.

   The 2018 VMRS season will have a 15 race schedule beginning  on April 7 at the Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park in Thompson, Ct.     

Story by James Snape

photos by

Simply the Best, Crystal Snape  

NASCAR, Whelen Announce Multi-Year Extensions

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

Winston Kelley (NASCAR Hall of Fame), Ann and Jerome Galpin (NASCAR Euro Series), Pete Tiezzi (Whelen Engineering) and Bob Duvall (NASCAR) take part in the NASCAR and Whelen Engineering contract extension announcement today at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Scott Hunter/NASCAR

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – NASCAR and Whelen Engineering, Inc. announced today multi-year extensions to continue its entitlement sponsorship of the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and the NASCAR Whelen Euro Series through 2024. Additionally, Whelen will also extend its designation as the “Official Warning Lights of NASCAR.”
“More than a decade of successful partnership has resulted in Whelen Engineering being deeply connected to many levels of our sport,” said Jim Cassidy, NASCAR senior vice president of racing operations. “The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and NASCAR Whelen Euro Series are critical to reaching fans, developing talent and delivering great racing both domestically and abroad.”
The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, NASCAR’s oldest division of racecars, is the premiere asphalt modified circuit in the nation. With a history dating back to Daytona Beach in 1948, the tour features a mix of passionate, veteran drivers with emerging young talent and includes races from New England to South Carolina.
“Whelen Engineering has played a big role in NASCAR for many years and we are ecstatic to continue to support the sport with this extended relationship,” said Phil Kurze, Whelen Engineering vice president of motorsports. “Our ability to build brand and product recognition nationally and internationally due to our partnership helps drive our business and reach new customers.”
The NASCAR Whelen Euro Series, the official NASCAR series based in Europe, has global appeal with 21 nations represented. Since becoming a NASCAR touring series in 2012 and obtaining the Whelen entitlement in July 2013, U.S. drivers such as Bobby Labonte, Jeffrey Earnhardt and Ben Kennedy have competed abroad. NASCAR Whelen Euro Series cars are also featured in the annual international Race of Champions.
“The NASCAR Whelen Euro Series is honored to have Whelen Engineering continue its title sponsorship,” said Jerome Galpin, NASCAR Euro Series president. “Whelen has helped NASCAR introduce exciting, door-to-door, American racing to a passionate motorsports fan base in Europe and we look forward to growing the series together in the years to come.”
A 10-year renewal with the NASCAR Hall of Fame as the title sponsor of the “Whelen Hall of Champions” was also announced today. Since opening in 2014, the exhibit has honored nearly 600 national and regional championships from the sport’s current and past series. The Hall also houses the “Everyday Champions” display, which honors first responders from across the country.
“We are thrilled with the multiyear extension of the NASCAR Hall of Fame’s partnership with Whelen Engineering. Through the Whelen Hall of Champions exhibit, we recognize every national and touring series champion in NASCAR history to date,” said Winston Kelley, NASCAR Hall of Fame executive director. “The ceremonial unveiling each year in association with the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series and NASCAR Touring Series banquet has become a celebrated moment for this partnership.”
Whelen Engineering is a leading manufacturer of automotive, aviation, industrial and emergency vehicle lighting. In addition to its entitlement, Whelen will continue to showcase their products across NASCAR tracks and pace cars.
The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and the NASCAR Whelen Euro Series will honor their champions at the NASCAR Home Tracks Champions Awards on Friday, Dec. 8 at North Carolina’s Charlotte Convention Center.
Source: NASCAR HOMETRACKS PRESS RELEASE AND PHOTO

KGM Video - Stafford Speedway SK Modifieds 8/6/85 Tim Richmond Wins !

NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Schedule for 2018

Posted by Wayne G. Barber & Photo by Wayne G. Barber

The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour’s return to Seekonk Speedway in Massachusetts has been moved from August to June 2. The date change means the tour will only have one instance where it will race three weeks in a row, and will have at least a weekend off between races on 10 different occasions.
Last year, the tour began its new unified era with the season opener at Myrtle Beach. South Carolina’s semi-banked half-mile oval held its first NASCAR event in 1958, and will once again host the opener on Saturday, March 17.
Earlier this summer, NASCAR and New Hampshire Motor Speedway announced the tour will be the headliner on Saturday, Sept. 22 as part of a special event that will also include the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East and NASCAR Pinty’s Series.
The NASCAR Whelen Modifeid Tour will also visit New Hampshire in July with a championship points race as well as the annual invitational, non-points All-Star Shootout. The tour will also be part of the national series weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway in August.
After Myrtle Beach, the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour will return to New England for two of the staple weekends of the early racing season: The 44rd Annual Icebreaker at Thompson and the 47th Annual NAPA Auto Parts Spring Sizzler at Connecticut’s Stafford Motor Speedway.
The tour will make four stops at Thompson, and three at Stafford.
The tour schedule also features two races at Long Island’s Riverhead Raceway, a bullring known for their high-intensity, close-quarters Modified action, as well as return trips to New York’s Oswego Speedway and Virgina’s Langley Speedway in Hampton.
The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour television broadcast schedule on NBCSN will be announced at a later date.

2018 NASCAR WHELEN MODIFIED TOUR SCHEDULE

Date	Track	Location
17-Mar	Myrtle Beach Speedway	Myrtle Beach, S.C.
8-Apr	Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park	Thompson, Conn.
29-Apr	Stafford Motor Speedway	Stafford, Conn.
2-Jun	Seekonk Speedway	Seekonk, Mass.
13-Jun	Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park	Thompson, Conn.
23-Jun	Langley Speedway	Hampton, Va.
7-Jul	Riverhead Raceway	Riverhead, N.Y.
20-Jul	New Hampshire Motor Speedway*	Loudon, N.H.
21-Jul	New Hampshire Motor Speedway	Loudon, N.H.
3-Aug	Stafford Motor Speedway	Stafford, Conn.
8-Aug	Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park	Thompson, Conn.
15-Aug	Bristol Motor Speedway	Bristol, Tenn.
1-Sep	Oswego Speedway	Oswego, N.Y..
8-Sep	Riverhead Raceway	Riverhead, N.Y.
22-Sep	New Hampshire Motor Speedway	Loudon, N.H.
30-Sep	Stafford Motor Speedway	Stafford, Conn.
14-Oct	Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park	Thompson, Conn.

*non-points, special events | SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE Source: NASCAR HOME TRACKS PRESS RELEASE

Scott Sundeen, a pure Racer !

Matt Vassar to Take Over Driving Duties of Hummel #11 SK Modified® at Stafford Motor Speedway

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

(Stafford Springs, CT)---After returning to Stafford Speedway in 2017 with Tony Membrino, Jr. behind the wheel, John Hummel has announced that his familiar blue, neon yellow, and orange #11 Hummel Brothers Hot Dogs machine will be piloted by Matt Vassar for the 2018 season.  Membrino recorded three top-10 finishes this season behind the wheel of the #11 machine and now Vassar, who recorded 4 top-5 and 8 top-10 finishes as a rookie driver in Stafford’s Late Model division, will take over the driving duties of the #11.

“I’d like to thank Tony, Jr. and the entire TMR Racing team for all their hard work and efforts this season,” said John Hummel.  “I’m looking forward to building on the momentum we enjoyed this past season.  I love racing at Stafford on Friday nights and we’ll have Matt Vassar driving the car for the 2018 season.”

“We’ve been working on something for a week or two now,” said Matt Vassar.  “John’s ride opened up and although I didn’t think I had a chance at landing it, I was told I should submit my resume because the worst that could have happened was him saying no and look what happened.  I have a chance now to do something that I never in my wildest dreams thought I’d have a chance of doing and I’m looking forward to making the best of the situation, having a lot of fun, and hopefully we can go out and win some races.”

Vassar comes into the SK Modifieds® with a vast background racing full fendered Late Model cars but the 2018 season will mark the very first time that Vassar will be behind the wheel of an open wheeled modified car.  While he knows he faces a steep learning curve, Vassar is confident that he and the #11 team have what it takes to not be overwhelmed and find success in their first season together.  Vassar will be leaning on the experience of Ed Flemke, Jr., who piloted the Hummel car years ago on the Whelen Modified Tour, in order to help accelerate his learning curve.

“It’ll be my first time in a modified but I’m very excited about the opportunity to be able to work with someone like Ed Flemke and to drive for someone as distinguished and well known in the modifieds as John Hummel,” said Vassar.  “It’s an amazing opportunity and I’m very excited.  I know we’re going to have our work cut out for us because the SK Modifieds® at Stafford is the toughest division in the country.  It’s not going to be easy but we’re going to have some fun.  It’s going to take a lot of work on our part and I feel like John will give me every opportunity I need to succeed and I don’t see why at the end of the day we can’t achieve some of our goals.  It’ll be difficult for sure, but the challenge will be worth the risk.  With already having laps on the track I don’t have to worry about learning the track again and there’s plenty of videos online showing how to get around the track in a modified and I think having Eddie in my corner will help get me up to speed pretty quickly.  This opportunity is like hitting the lottery for me.  I’ve been smiling so hard lately, I swear my smile goes from ear to ear and I’m excited to see what path the 2018 season will take us on.”

While keeping in mind the task that lies ahead of him for the 2018 season, Vassar has set some modest goals for his initial foray into the world of SK Modified® racing at Stafford Speedway.

“Obviously everyone’s goals are to win a race and be a contender for the championship,” said Vassar.  “Personally my goals this season will be to have fun, I’d like to win a race, and then third I want to win Rookie of the Year.  I think the biggest challenge for me will be to figure out what I need the car to do and then what kind of setup balance the car needs to have me to do the things that I’m asking the car to do.  If we can find that, I think we can be pretty successful.”

In addition to his SK Modified® duties this upcoming season, Vassar might also be busy in the Late Model division both as a driver and a car owner. 

“I bought Jim Mavlouganes’ car and I’m looking at the possibility of racing the NAPA Spring Sizzler, NAPA Fall Final, and the extra distance race and then stepping back into a car ownership role with my brother coming up to race the car in the other races next year,” said Vassar.  “We’ll see what happens with the Late Model.” 

For more information, contact the Stafford Motor Speedway track office at 860-684-2783 or visit us on the web at www.staffordspeedway.com.

Stafford Speedway, Connecticut Releases 2018 Schedule of Events

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

(Stafford Springs, CT)---Stafford Speedway is proud to announce the 60th season of NASCAR weekly racing in Northeast Connecticut with a 22-race schedule.  The 2018 season will kick-off on April 28 & 29 with arguably the biggest Modified race in the country, the 47th Annual NAPA Auto Parts Spring Sizzler dubbed “The Greatest Race in the History of Spring”.  The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour will run 200 laps and will be joined by Stafford’s 5 weekly divisions, the New England Truck Series, and new for 2018, the Vintage All Stars Race.   

            Stafford’s signature Friday night program kicks off May 4th and continues with the 5-star program weekly throughout the season with special events for all divisions dotted across the schedule.  The Street Stocks will kick-off the extra distance racing on May 11 with a 25-lap feature and will back that up with a second special event on September 7, a 30-lap extra distance event.    

            “Strong weekly racing has always been our focus,” explained Stafford General Manager Mark Arute.  “We’re continuing to put our efforts into supporting our weekly competitors with extra distance events for all divisions.  Stafford is a track focused on the weekly competitor and we take great pride in supporting those teams in any way we can.”  

The weekly division showcase continues in the month of May with the return of the popular Dunleavy’s Truck and Trailer Repair Modifiedz Night 40-lap SK Light Modified race on May 25.  The ultra competitive SK Modifieds® will run 100 laps in the annual NAPA Auto Parts SK 5K on June 29.  The guaranteed $5,000 to win SK Modified® event has seen 4 different winners over its 4 year existence.  Full fender divisions will be showcased July 20 with the Limited Late Model 30 and August 17 for the Call Before You Dig 811 Late Model 50. 

Seven touring modified events will highlight the 2018 calendar with three stops for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour (April 28-29, August 3, Sept. 29-30) in addition to two 80-lap events for the Valenti Modified Racing Series on Friday, May 18 and Friday, August 31.  New for the 2018 season will be two Open Modified 80-lap events on Friday, June 8th and Friday, July 13th.

            “We’re running two Open Modified shows in 2018, both at 80 lap distances,” continued Arute.  “We are working through the details of these events but both will be an opportunity for modified teams to participate.”

Additional highlights to the 2018 schedule include an increased distance for weekly Street Stock competition to 20 laps, two Fireworks displays on May 25 and July 6, as well as extra laps for the SK Modifieds® on both May 25 (50 laps) and July 13 (40+13 laps).

            “We are all very excited for the 2018 season and hope teams and drivers are as well,” continued Mark Arute. “Only 158 days until the NAPA Spring Sizzler." 

For more information, contact the Stafford Motor Speedway track office at 860-684-2783 or visit us on the web at www.staffordspeedway.com.Source: Stafford Speedway Press Release Scott Running

Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park Reveals 2018 Schedule

Posted by Wayne G. Barber  Photo Credit Wayne G. Barber Collection

Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park Reveals 2018 Schedule

Season Opening Icebreaker set for April 6-8

Thompson, CT (November 20, 2017) – Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park (TSMP) revealed it’s 2018 NASCAR Whelen All-American Series racing schedule, comprised of seven diverse and unique events.

Thompson will continue to showcase Sunoco Modifieds, which will compete in eight points-counting races, supported by the Late Models, Limited Sportsman and Mini Stocks, who will all have seven points-counting races. The Lite Modified Division will race in three events, but not under the NWAAS sanction.

“In the past several seasons, our four NASCAR Whelen All-American Series divisions have experienced great growth, not only in the quantity, but in quality of the field. We are proud to showcase them as the core of our NASCAR program,” explained Josh Vanada, General Manager of TSMP. 

The Northeast’s premier touring series are all on the docket for 2018, including four stops by NASCAR’s oldest division – The Whelen Modified Tour. The NASCAR K&N Pro Series East will return for the second annual Thompson Throwback in mid-July. Additionally, after several strong fields at the Sunoco World Series of Speedway Racing, the Valenti Modified Racing Series will now open their 2018 season at the Icebreaker. The Pro All-Star Series, American-Canadian Tour, International Supermodified Association, and Northeastern Midget Association will all return to America’s first-paved oval.   

“We’re glad to welcome a diverse group of sanctioning bodies and touring series back to Thompson in 2018. Their presence at our venue enhances our racing program, providing a variety for our fans.  They complement our NASCAR Whelen All-American Series and add prestige to our major events,” Vanada concluded.  

The 2018 season of racing kicks off Friday, April 6, with a Test & Tune day. On April 7-8, the New England stock car racing season will open with eleven divisions on the Icebreaker card, which is headlined by The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour. Some added excitement will take place on Saturday, April 7, as The Valenti Modified Racing Series will open their season with a 50-lap affair. The highly-anticipated Fan Appreciation Party and Champion’s Banner Raising will be held on Sunday morning, April 8.

Friday, April 6 - Sunday, April 8: 44th Annual Icebreaker

Sunday, May 20: Third Annual Limited Sportsman Long Distance & Military Night, Presented by Pepsi

Wednesday, June 13: Fourth Annual NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Thompson 125

Friday, July 13: Thompson Throwback Test & Tune

Saturday, July 14: Second Annual NASCAR Thompson Throwback 100

Wednesday, August 8: 29th Annual Bud ‘King of Beers’ 150             

Sunday, September 9: Third Annual For the Fans Event; 5th Annual Sunoco Modified 20/20 Sprint

Friday, October 12 – Sunday, October 14: 56th Annual Sunoco World Series of Speedway Racing

For a full calendar of events, please visit thompsonspeedway.com. Season passes will go on sale on Black Friday, also on ThompsonSpeedway.com Source: Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park Press Release

Martin Truex Jr. Claims Monster Energy Cup

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

Congratulations from the entire Race Chatter Nation. You deserved this one !

Race Fast Facts - Championship Fast Facts - Martin Truex Jr has won his first Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series championship, becoming the 32nd different series champion.

- Truex wins in the season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway to claim the 2017 title.

- Truex has become the third different driver to win a Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series championship in the elimination-style format of the Playoffs; joining Kevin Harvick (2014) and Kyle Busch (2015).

- Truex joins Kyle Busch, Kevin Harvick, Bobby Labonte and Brad Keselowski as only the fifth driver all-time to boast both Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR XFINITY Series championships.

- In 2017, Truex has posted eight wins, 19 top fives, 26 top 10s and three poles.

- Truex (Mayetta) is the first Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series champion from the state of New Jersey.

Keith Rocco, Glen Reen, Cory DiMatteo, Duane Provost, & Johnny Walker Honored As 2017 Stafford Speedway Track Champions

Posted by Wayne G. Barber  Photo by Wayne G. Barber

(Stafford Springs, CT)---Stafford Motor Speedway welcomed a guest list of nearly 450 people consisting of teams, drivers, sponsors, and employees this past Friday night, November 17 at Maneely’s in South Windsor to officially honor Keith Rocco, Glen Reen, Cory DiMatteo, Duane Provost, and Johnny Walker as the 2017 Stafford Motor Speedway NASCAR Whelen All-American Series track champions.

With Stafford Motor Speedway broadcaster Matt Buckler serving as the Masters of Ceremony, the 48th annual Stafford Motor Speedway NASCAR Champions Awards Ceremony not only honored the five track champions, they also recognized the top-10 points finishers from the SK Modified®, Late Model, SK Light, Limited Late Model, and DARE Stock divisions.  Special awards that were presented during the evening’s festivities were Most Popular Driver Awards, NAPA Auto Parts Parts Rookie of the Year, R.A.D. Automachine Rookie of the Year, and the UNOH Youth Achievement Award.

Keith Rocco and the #88 Wheelers Auto team used a combination of consistency and clutch performances to take the title.  Rocco began strong with 10 top-9 finishes but began to struggle in August and the beginning of September.  Entering the final 2 races of the season, Rocco trailed Chase Dowling by 34 points.  Rocco and the #88 team then rised to the occasion by winning the final 2 races to claim the championship by a 6 point margin over Dowling.  For the season, the #88 team posted 2 wins, 9 top-5 and 15 top-10 finishes for an average finish of 5.8

Glen Reen and the #31 LifeCare Family Chiropractic team were a model of consistency throughout the 2017 season en route to winning the championship.  In 17 starts this season, Reen posted 16 top-7 finishes with his worst finish for the season an 11^th place effort on Sept. 15.  Despite not leading the Late Model division in wins, top-5s, or top-10s this year, Reen’s consistency carried him to the championship with Tom Fearn and Kevin Gambacorta tied for second, 8 points behind Reen.  For the season, Reen and the #31 team posted 3 wins, 13 top-5, and 16 top-10 finishes and they finished on the podium in 10 of the 17 races.

Cory DiMatteo made the move from Legend Cars into SK Lights at Stafford for the 2017 season and he proved he was a quick study by winning the first 2 races of the season.  DiMatteo used that early momentum to establish himself as a championship contender but several finishes outside the top-15 dropped him out of the points lead.  DiMatteo spent much of the summer recovering lost points from his finishes outside the top-15 and he posted top-6 finishes in 11 of the final 12 races to erase his deficit to the point leaders and win the championship at the NAPA Fall Final with a 4^th place finish.  For the season DiMatteo posted 4 wins, 12 top-5s and 14 top-10s and he becomes the fourth rookie driver, joining Michael Gervais, Jr. in 2009, Matt Galko in 2010, and Jeremy Sorel in 2014 as rookie drivers who also won the SK Light championship.

While Duane Provost had a bit of luck and circumstance on his side last season in winning the Limited Late Model championship, he needed no such favors this season as he locked down a second consecutive track championship.  Provost and the #88 Michael Facchini Law Firm team scored top-5 finishes in 16 of the 17 races this season with 3 wins.  Provost scored back to back wins in early June and then won again on Sept. 15 to help cement his place at the top of the standings heading into the final 2 races of the season.  For the season Provost scored 3 wins, 16 top-5s, and 16 top-10s.

After winning the DARE Stock championship in 2016, Johnny Walker and the #01 Dunleavy’s Truck & Trailer Repair team came back and put together one of the most dominant seasons in Stafford history in any division.  After a loose steering wheel relegated him to a 12^th place finish in the season opening NAPA Spring Sizzler feature event, Walker finished each of the remaining 16 races on the podium with 8 wins, 5 second place finishes, and 3 third place finishes.  The 8 wins set a DARE Stock record for most wins in a season and Walker easily accumulated the highest point total of any driver at Stafford this season with 806 points over 17 races.

The NAPA Auto Parts Rookie of the Year awards were presented to Josh Wood from the SK Modified® division and Paul Arute from the Late Model division.  Taking home R.A.D. Automachine Rookie of the Year honors were Cory DiMatteo in the SK Light division, Alexandra Fearn in the Limited Late Model division, and George Bessette, Jr. in the DARE Stock division.  The NAPA Auto Parts rookie awards will be worth a $1,000.00 gift card redeemable at participating NAPA Stores to Wood and Arute, with DiMatteo, Fearn, and Bessette each winning a $500 bonus from R.A.D. Automachine that will be paid out in $100.00 weekly increments to each driver as they attend events during the 2018 season.

The winners of the Most Popular Driver Awards were Ted Christopher in the SK Modified® division, Tom Fearn in the Late Model division, Marcello Rufrano from the SK Light division, Alexandra Fearn from the Limited Late Model division, and Nicole Chambrello in the DARE Stock division.  The Most Popular Driver Awards are voted on by the fans who attend Stafford Motor Speedway race events and fill out the ballots found in the track’s weekly PitStopper Magazine.

The UNOH Youth Achievement award was won by SK Light Modified driver Daniel Wesson for the second consecutive season.  The UNOH Youth Achievement Award is a program that is open to all drivers at Stafford between the ages of 14-17.  The eligible driver who scored the most track points from their best 14 finishes this season won a $500 cash award from UNOH as well as a $500 scholarship award from UNOH. 

For more information about the 2017 Stafford Motor Speedway Champions Awards Ceremony, contact the Stafford Motor Speedway’s track office at (860) 684-2783 or visit us on the web at www.staffordspeedway.com.

Who do you like ?

Posted by Wayne G. Barber


Monster Energy  Championship at Homestead, Fla.

                                 Kyle Busch  Toyota

                                 Kevin Harvick  Ford
                               
                                 Brad Keselowski  Ford

                                 Martin Truex Jr.    Toyota

Ryan Preece Racing News.....

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

Excited to announce that I will be racing the JGR #18 Safelite AutoGlass Toyota
this weekend at Homestead-Miami Speedway!

Celebrate....

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

Congratulations to all the race teams from the entire Race Chatter Nation

Camping World Truck Series News

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

FORT WORTH, TEXAS - For the first time in Cody Coughlin's career, he'll be racing in the Valley of the Sun, and he'll be doing so with positive momentum on his side. After scoring strong finishes in recent races, including a career-best of sixth at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Coughlin and his JEGS.com/RIDE TV team at ThorSport Racing are ready to head west again to race the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Lucas Oil 150 at Phoenix International Raceway on Friday night.

 

While Coughlin has never raced at the one-mile triangle in Avondale, Arizona, Coughlin is confident that he'll know just what to expect out of the tricky track before he arrives in the desert.

 

"My spotter, Terry Cook, does a great job helping me prepare for each track we go to, especially the new ones," said Coughlin.  "I'll study the notes that he usually gives me and we'll go from there and hopefully be strong right off the truck on Friday."

 

Coughlin and his team have been strong as of late, in fact, he led laps at Talladega Superspeedway a couple races ago. The 21-year-old driver said he feels like they're in the process of ending the 2017 season on a high note.

 

"It's definitely the right way to close the year out. We've shown good speed at most of the races this year, but we'd have trouble getting the finishes to show it. Our luck has not matched our performance, but our plan is to fight hard like we have all year long and hopefully get strong finishes at Phoenix and Homestead to end the year."

 

Coughlin's race weekend is actually just a race day in Phoenix as it is a one-day show this weekend. Coughlin's day will begin with a one hour and 50-minute practice session at 9 a.m. MT. Pole qualifying will take place at 3:30 p.m. MT with the green flag set to follow at 6:30 p.m. MT/8:30 p.m. ET.

 

Friday's race is 150 laps/150 miles in length. The event is broken down into three stages. The first stage will end on lap 40. The middle stage will end on lap 80 and the final stage will end with the checkered flag at lap 150 unless NASCAR Overtime is required.

 

Race fans hoping to meet Cody Coughlin can do so at the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series autograph session from 1 - 1:45 p.m. on Friday.

 

Therrien, Woodard, Davis, and Martin Honored at Banquet of Champions

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

Barre, Vt. – Thunder Road Speedbowl honored the top performers of the 2017 racing season at the annual Banquet of Champions on Saturday, November 4 at the Barre Elks Club. Hundreds of drivers, crew members, and officials were in attendance to present season-long and special awards.

Bobby Therrien received the honors of “King of the Road” for his first championship in the Thunder Road Late Model division, while Jason Woodard and Jamie Davis were recognized for their second career championships in the Lenny’s Shoe & Apparel Flying Tigers and Allen Lumber Street Stocks, respectively. Mike Martin earned the Myers Container Service Triple Crown Series title for the Flying Tigers.

Hinesburg, Vt.’s Therrien became the first driver in Thunder Road’s modern era to win championships in three different divisions. He previously won the Flying Tiger championship in 2012 and the Street Stock title in 2007. This past season, he won the season-opening Mekkelsen RV Memorial Day Classic and led the standings after 12 of the 14 regular-season events. He posted five podium finishes, including a runner-up in the Vermont Governor’s Cup, and 12 top-10 results. Therrien also had five Maplewood Semi-Feature victories.

Waterbury Center’s Jason Woodard claimed his second Lenny’s Shoe & Apparel Flying Tiger Championship after previously winning the title in 2014. Woodard bounced back from a slow start to record four feature victories on the season, including two in 75-lap Triple Crown events. On June 22, he became the eighth driver in Thunder Road history to win two features in one night. Hardwick’s Jaden Perry received the Flying Tiger Rookie of the Year Award after posting 14 top-10 finishes on the season.

Wolcott’s Jamie Davis joined Woodard as two-time champions with his Allen Lumber Street Stock title. Davis overcame adversity on multiple occasions throughout the season, posting 14 top-10 finishes and two wins – the second of which came in the season finale to come out on top of a multi-way battle for the title. Craftsbury Common’s Stephen Martin was honored as the Street Stock Rookie of the Year after edging out Middlesex’s Logan Powers by just one point in the rookie standings.

Mike Martin was the Myers Container Services Triple Crown Series Champion. Martin won the second leg of the three-race series and edged Woodard by just three points in the final rundown.

Thunder Road officials also handed out several special awards throughout the evening. Marvin Galarneau received the annual Ken Squier Award for his contributions to Thunder Road. Galarneau has been the marketing director at Thunder Road for more than a decade and has worked for numerous tracks and series throughout the region.

Tina Gallison was the recipient of the inaugural Thomas M. Curley Award given in honor of the late Thunder Road co-owner and promoter. Gallison has worked at the speedway for more than 20 years as an administrator, race-day official and in other behind-the-scenes positions.

Waterbury Center’s Kelsea Woodard was named the 2017 Thunder Road Most Improved Driver. After finishing 21^st in Allen Lumber Street Stock points in 2016, Woodard jumped to third in the final standings in 2017 with four podium finishes.

Late Model driver Jim “Boomer” Morris received the Thunder Road Sportsmanship Award. Morris maintained an upbeat attitude while persevering through numerous hard wrecks and other adversity throughout the season. Fairfax’s Alan Maynard was presented with the Ed Carroll Memorial Sportsmanship Award for his positive influence in the Street Stock pits and his contributions to the Race to Read program.

Carl Parton of CVTSport.net received the Pete Hartt Memorial Media Award. Parton has been the official Thunder Road videographer for the past nine seasons and his videos are viewed around the world through his web site and through partnerships with Speed51.com and other media outlets.

The Banquet of Champions officially concludes the 2017 Thunder Road season. Announcements regarding 2018 schedules, division rules, and season passes are expected in the near future.

For more information, contact the Thunder Road offices at (802) 244-6963, media@thunderroadvt.com, or visit www.thunderroadvt.com. Source: Thunder Road Press Release

AMERICAN CANADIAN TOUR CHANGES OWNERSHIP

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

Waterbury, VT -- American Canadian Tour (ACT) Managing Director Darla Hartt announced today a change in ownership of the 31-year old late model stock car racing series to Cris Michaud and Pat Malone, who completed purchase of the Thunder Road speedplant earlier this year.

Under the guidance of its founder, Tom Curley, ACT’s strict rules requirements, including the use of crate engines and other cost-restricting guidelines, positioned the American Canadian Tour as a long-standing leader in innovation in the short track industry.  ACT events have been enjoyed by race fans throughout New England, New York, eastern Canada and Florida.  Curley’s passion for the sport was evident in the fiery pit meetings he staged prior to each event, and his hands-on approach and inclusive philosophy proved a successful formula.  Curley died in May of complications of COPD.

“My decision to sell ACT is bittersweet, having worked with Tom from the initial NASCAR North Tour in 1979, and then launching our own series in 1986”, said Darla Hartt, Curley’s successor.  “Over 38 years we logged many thousands of miles and enjoyed so many adventures with incredible people.  Everyone in our ACT family felt a huge loss in his passing, but the teams, fans, promoters, and officials who are ACT remain dedicated to the task of moving forward.  Losing Tom last Spring- who was both my business and life partner- and immediately proceeding to operate the Tour was a challenge,” Hartt continued.  

“Tom Curley was very much a proponent of necessary change, and when I was approached by Cris and Pat, I felt the passing of the torch at this point was a good decision for everyone involved. ACT is a special entity, and I am pleased that the new ownership includes an individual who came up through our system.  Cris Michaud raced with us at Thunder Road and on the Tour, and then ultimately worked with us as an official for a couple of years, gaining valuable knowledge from his mentorship with Tom and embracing those ideals on which ACT was founded.   I trust that the ACT Tour is in good hands, and will continue to thrive going into the future”, Hartt concluded.

“I am thrilled to be able, along with my partner Pat, to lead ACT forward.  Having worked with and for Tom Curley, ACT has always represented to me the best in short track racing, and I am excited about this acquisition.  I admire the efforts Darla has made over the course of her career and especially since Tom’s passing with ACT, and appreciate the confidence she has in entrusting us with this iconic organization”, stated Michaud.  He continued, “we anticipate sharing scheduling and other planning information for the 2018 ACT Tour in the next few weeks”. Source: ACT Tour Press Release

For more information contact media@acttour.com, or the ACT Office at 802-244-6963.

Paul Arute Wins NAPA Auto Parts Late Model Rookie of the Year Honors at Stafford Speedway

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

(Stafford Springs, CT)---After a dominating 2016 season that saw him win 5 races and contend for the Limited Late Model championship, Tolland native Paul Arute made the step up the full fender ladder at Stafford Speedway into the Late Model division for 2017.  The driver of the #82 Supreme Industries Chevrolet took down his first Late Model win on August 25 and with 4 top-5 and 13 top-10 finishes for the season, he easily outpointed Matt Vassar to claim the NAPA Auto Parts Rookie of the Year honors and the $1,000 bonus that goes with it.

“The whole team knew how big the jump from Limited Late Models to Late Models would be,” explained Arute. “Our goal at the start of the year was to learn as much as we could and win 1 race before the year was out.  We grabbed that win and also grabbed the rookie of the year bonus from NAPA, so we’re happy with the season.”

The beginning of the season saw Arute struggling to find the handling on his #82 machine as he had to adjust to the power difference between the Limited Late Model and Late Model cars in addition to having to set the car up to last 30 laps instead of the customary 20 laps from the Limited Late Model days.  Arute managed two top-10 finishes over his first four starts but as the year wore on he began to pick up the consistency with his finishes as he managed top-10 efforts in all but two of the remaining 13 races, including the Aug. 25 victory.

“We struggled a bit during the first half of the season to get a handle on the new car but the team worked through it,” continued Arute.  “I can’t thank my sponsors and crew enough, without them none of this is possible.  Supreme Industries, Forward Financing, and New England Race Fuels are all vital to our operation.  Steve Johnson has been my crew chief for over 3 years now and we have had a lot of fun learning about the new car this season.  I have to thank everyone who helps out on the team; Steve Johnson, Wendy Batz, Everett Marvin, Rick Casagrande, Ric DeCarli, and Bob Fill.”

The second half of the season is where Arute and the #82 team really began to shine.  Starting in August, Arute began an 8-race stretch that saw them record top-9 finishes in each race.  Arute’s average finish over the final 8 races was 5.9 and the highlight of the season was being able to pull his #82 into NAPA Victory Lane.  With a full season of Late Model competition under his belt, Arute will be looking to get his Late Model program on the level that he enjoyed with his Limited Late Model car in 2016 and be a regular contender for wins as well as being a contender for the track championship.

“Gavin and Nate Boucher with Supreme Industries have been with our team for 3 seasons now and will be back on board in 2018,” explained Arute.  “They’re great guys and with their backing we’re confident we can contend for wins and get to victory lane a few times next season.  Late model racing at Stafford is so tough, the competition level is very high and to get a win you have to have a flawless night.  With one year under our belts were ready to contend in 2018.”

Arute will officially be crowned as the 2017 NAPA Auto Parts Late Model Rookie of the Year at the 48th Annual Stafford Motor Speedway Champions Awards Ceremony on Friday, November 17 at Maneeley’s in South Windsor. 

Tickets to the 48th Annual Stafford Motor Speedway Champions Awards Ceremony are $48 per person and can be ordered by calling the Stafford Motor Speedway track office at (860) 684-2783, by downloading an order form from www.staffordspeedway.com and returning the form to the track office, or by paying for tickets online. 

For more information, contact the Stafford Motor Speedway track office at 860-684-2783 or visit us on the web at www.staffordspeedway.com.Source: Scott Running Stafford Speedway Press Release

O’SULLIVAN BECOMES A TWO-TIME GSPSS CHAMPION

Posted by Wayne G. Barber

WATERFORD, Conn. -- The 2017 Granite State Pro Stock Series season saw one driver capture his second championship. Mike O’Sullivan, a former champion at Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park, wasn’t able to visit Victory Lane in the 12-race schedule. 

But that didn’t matter.

O’Sullivan was consistent enough to roll into the season-finale at New London-Waterford Speedbowl with a four point lead over Scott MacMichael. While his challengers had trouble, O’Sullivan was calm, cool and collective and finished seventh in the 100 lap feature. He avoided a few crashes and settled in late, knowing he just needed to finish well to become a two-time Granite State Series champion. 

“Those guys in front of me, you can’t take anything away from them, they were definitely good tonight,” O’Sullivan said of the race. "I was just trying to be smart. My car was great. It didn’t really go away. It was difficult to be smart there and just do what I needed to do. I was really confident on the restarts, even though I started on the top.”

Saturday’s race wasn’t exactly what O’Sullivan was looking for from his competitors either. The early stages of the race were filled with cautions, a lot of them for multi-car crashes all around the track. Luckily, he was able to escape without damage. But it still wasn’t the way he wanted to end the season. 

“You want to get in a rhythm and run. Everyone will tell you when they strap in the race car they are nervous. But as soon as they throw the green, you get hot and things get going,” O’Sullivan said. "I’d rather see 25, 30 laps runs and get us in a rhythm. But that’s just what happens.”

One major turning point in the championship chase took place in just the first few laps. His closest challenger, MacMichael, went spinning from second spot right in front of the entire field. Unfortunately, O’Sullivan was the one who got into him and sent him around -not intentionally, though. There was a car stopped at the bottom of turn four and MacMichael checked up. It created the accordion affect.  

“To be honest, I was hoping Scott would get his spot back. He checked up for the wreck in turn four and they were yelling there was no caution,” O’Sullivan said. "I got hit from behind and pushed into him and he got put around. I was hoping they would just give him his spot back and wipe the slate clean.”

O’Sullivan didn’t even have his own car on the property on Saturday night. His brother, Tommy, who also competes in the series, lended his car over to his brother after Mike was involved in a nasty crash at Thompson a week prior. They knew it would be hard to get the car fixed, but his brother stepped in to help.

“He’s always been like that, I’ve driven his Late Models before and I’ve even driven his go-karts before. He’s always had a bone in him to be happy and be content to see me drive his car,” Mike said. "That being said, he had a good car at Thompson and he won this year with this car. To be able to step away and know that it was a possibility that he wasn’t going to be able to take his car here, it was tough. He didn’t hesitate.”

His fourth career championship is definitely something special. 

“They are all different, the first one at Thompson was cool, we weren’t really expecting to do that. We ran really good that year and it was a little bit of a surprise. It took us a while to get back there, we won in 2002 and then in 2007,” O’Sullivan said. 

"To come here on a touring series, we had Icebreaker and the World Series on the schedule and we decided we wanted to run them all. The first time we won a title on this series, I hadn’t even visited three-quarters of the tracks. To be able to do this is a testament to my guys. They love running for points." Source: GSPSS Press Release and GSPSS Photo