UPCOMING EVENTS

NEWS FLASH!!!

• THANK YOU for another successful "Crashing Through the Snow"!  Lots of pics under Photo Gallery

• Don't forget about our Awards Banquet coming up January 17.  Click here for form.

• USAC Sprints coming to Mercer June 6 for 1st time ever!

• GM 602 crate Stock Cars to begin April 18, 2009!

• Recap of '08 and a preview for '09 for the Modified division below

Click here for Christmas Ticket &

VIP Package Wish List

(extended for 2 weeks) 

RECENT PRESS RELEASES

GILLETTE MAKES IT 2-IN-A-ROW WITH “JACK FROST 150” ENDURO VICTORY IN FRONT OF A BIG CROWD SATURDAY;

BOYLE WINS “SNOWBALL” DEMO DERBY

By Mike Leone 

January 3, 2009           

Mercer, PA…Though it was titled “Crashing Through the Snow,” a beautiful sunny January 3^rd day blessed Mercer Raceway Park on Saturday afternoon as a big crowd watched Tim Gillette capture the “Jack Frost 150” Enduro and Doug Boyle take the “Snowball” Demo Derby.  It was a festive atmosphere as the second annual event was presented by longtime marketing partner Hovis Auto & Truck Supply. 

Driving a 1992 Toyota Celica, Tim Gillette made it two-in-a-row in Enduro competition with the same car backing up his July 4 “KABOOM 150” Enduro win with another $1,000 payday in the “Jack Frost 150” Enduro.  Gillette survived a couple brushes with disaster in the closing laps including a cut tire, blown radiator, and a spinning car in turn four on the final circuit.

“That’s all I could ask of that car,” expressed the 46-year-old Linesville, Pa. winner by his smoking car in victory lane.  “I think it (debris) got my radiator.  I don’t know when the tire went.  I knew it wasn’t handling right the last three laps.”

Gillette started his path to victory from the second starting spot and actually led the opening lap taking the lead from pole-sitter Shaun Hooks, the 2002 Stock Car champion and 2004 “Little Guy Nationals” winner.  Ray Seibert made his way from the 10^th starting spot to grab the lead on lap two and led until lap five when Gillette regained the lead.  Fourteenth starting Chris Roberts took the lead from Gillette on lap nine, but his lead only lasted a lap as third-generation racer Ryan Hall came from 20^th starting spot to lead lap 10.  It was a five-car race for the lead at this point in the event. 

Hall’s day actually ended in the lead when he yielded the top spot to 25^th starting Jeff Schomaker on lap 17. Schomaker held the lead for two laps until Dwight Boice, a one-time Stock Car winner, charged from dead last to the lead on lap 19.  Boice led for seven laps before Seibert would lead his last lap of the day on lap 26 as Boice regained the lead for one lap on the 27^th circuit.  Roberts came back to lead 28 and turned the lead back to Schomaker on lap 29.  The two battled for the lead as Roberts then was able to lead laps 31-39. 

Last year’s “Jack Frost 150” winner, Leigh Wheeler, worked his way from 38^th to lead for the first time of the day on lap 40.  Hoping to make it two-in-a-row for the event, Wheeler gave up the lead at lap 50 to Gillette, the eventual winner.  Wheeler suffered mechanical woes forcing him out of the event in the ensuing laps.

It looked like a battle was going to shape up for the lead as Aaron Hill made up at least two laps as he had passed Gillette to get back on the lead lap; however a red flag on lap 108 doomed the Brookville, Pa. driver as he was unable to get his car started.  Gillette drove a smooth and consistent race leading the last 101 laps and 106 overall in his Gillette Import Autowerks #2.   

Andy Sweetland of Spartansburg, Pa. came from 66^th to finish second, but was five laps down to the winner and earned $500.  Former Modified racer John Larkin of Renfrew, Pa. was third capturing $400.  Paul Koffler, Jr. of West Leisenring, Pa. was fourth nabbing $300.  Completing the top five was Stock Car driver Stacy Neubecker of Boardman, Ohio for $200.

The event featured 14 lead changes amongst seven different drivers.  Nearly 70 cars took the green flag as the competitors ranged in age from 14 to 64 hailing from all over Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio, and western New York including some 20 current and former racers.  The race took 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete including two red flag stoppages.    

Doug Boyle won his first “Snowball” Demo Derby topping a field of 13 competitors with his Chevy-powered 1984 Ford.  It was definitely worth it,” said the Saegertown, Pa. winner by his smashed #715.  “It was a good derby.  I love coming down here.  I just hit as hard as I could and kept moving.”

Veteran Harry Boyer of Meadville, Pa. was second earning $250, while former racer Bruce Milbert of Portersville, Pa. was third taking $150. 

“I have to thank all of the fans for the excellent turnout, the participation by the drivers, our sponsor Hovis Auto and Truck Supply, and the outstanding work by track manager Frank Benic and Wayne Sheets and the rest of his crew for preparing the facility for this event,” explained 11^th year owner Vicki Emig.  “It was amazing how nice the track turned out after it got run it as so many people said you could have raced on it!  Without everyone’s support there is no way we could attempt a show like this.   We’ll be bringing back this event to kick off 2010 with possibly another addition to the show.” 

“Jack Frost 150” Enduro: 1. TIM GILLETTE ($1,000)  2. Andy Sweetland  3. John Larkin  4. Paul Koffler, Jr.  5. Stacy Neubecker  6. Martin Jones  7. Russ Sansosti  8. Rusty Cade  9. Skip Lindemuth  10. Ray Seibert  11. Chris Roberts  12. Jason Schomaker  13. Jeremy Speicher  14. Jim McClean  15. Henry Wilfong  16. Joe Philip  17. Aaron Hill  18. Nick Steiger  19. Curtis Holben  20. Tom Roberts  21. Don Vernier  22. Gene Buck  23. Pete Blazczak  24. Shaun Pyle  25. Tyler Wickham  26. Lee Lehnard  27. Leigh Wheeler  28. Kyle Ripper  29. Matt Cross  30. Cameron Alexander  31. Adam Sellers  32. Dave Tackett  33. Brian Scholze  34. Rich Ridinger  35. Dakota Papsun  36. Dillon Kineston  37. Russell Byler  38. Ron Herman  39. Robert Roser, Jr.  40. Jeff Schomaker  41. Bryan Wagner  42. Eelyn Wickham  43. Tom Emery  44. Dwight Boice  45. Steve Settle, Jr.  46. Clyde Roberts  47. Josh Dillaman  48. Mark Hayes  49. Eric Beggs  50. Tim Callahan  51. Keith Grasser  52. Shaun Hooks  53. Mike Pegher, Jr.  54. Ryan Hall  55. Bob Stroup  56. Stephen Grasser  57. Cody Hickok  58. Larry Wagner, Jr.  59. Michael Custer  60. Dave Kineston  61. Mark Sieler  62. Rick Emerson  63. Brad Blackshear  64. Derek Stefanik  65. Garrett Schreffler  66. Cody Burzynski–DNS  67. Barry Nerone–DNS.

HISTORY TO BE MADE JUNE 6 AS USAC NATIONAL SPRINT CARS SERIES MAKES THEIR INAUGURAL APPEARANCE

By Mike Leone

December 17, 2008               

(Mercer, PA)…Sprint Cars have had a long and rich history at Mercer Raceway Park.  The class has evolved from the coupes in the early 1960s, to the super modifieds in the mid 60s, and then into the traditional sprint cars in the ensuing years. 

Throughout the speedway’s 58 years, many special Sprint Car events and various sanctions have made their way to Mercer Raceway Park such as the World of Outlaws, All Stars, URC, ESS, etc.; however, one of the most revered and oldest, the United States Auto Club (USAC), never found its way to Mercer.  That will change and history will be made on Saturday, June 6 when the USAC National Sprint Car Series will have the grand finale of the Pennsylvania swing with one of the richest and most prestigious events ever contested at Mercer.  

Although USAC has only made two appearances over the years in western Pennsylvania, they have never done so on a track smaller than a ½-mile.  Mercer’s 3/8-mile bullring will provide an exciting venue for fans to experience traditional, non-winged Sprint Cars as USAC brings their Indiana-brand of wheel-to-wheel racing to The Park.

The event will be known as “The Wheelman” as it will bring back memories of years gone by when these special breed of men began racing these open cockpit, non-winged beasts.  Many special activities will take place including a USAC driver autograph session on the frontstretch just before they strap in to do battle in this historic feature event.  This will be the first time ever that all fans will have the opportunity to get up close and personal to the drivers and their cars during a major-sanctioned event. 

“I think this is a fitting way to mark the anniversary of my 10^th year of ownership at Mercer,” stated owner Vicki Emig.  “It is a wonderful and memorable way to thank the fans who have supported me throughout my tenure.  I believe this event has the potential to be one of the greatest races ever run at Mercer.  Just imagine Mercer’s tricky configuration joined with USAC’s reputation for hardcore, on the edge racing and it’s just got to be great!”

Over the past two seasons, nearly 30 of USAC’s best have traveled east to compete in the Pennsylvania swing at Williams Grove, Grandview, Big Diamond, and Hagerstown Speedways.  With five events planned in 2009 and more money on the line, a large group of USAC racers will again be expected to travel east.  Mercer will be new territory to the vast majority of the USAC racers as they take on the locals that excel in non-winged action.

The USAC Sprint Car Champions list is a who’s who of sprint car racing with some of the best racers that have ever strapped in a race car.  Drivers like Tony Stewart, A.J. Foyt, Parnelli Jones, Pancho Carter, Johnny Rutherford, Gary Bettenhausen, Ken Schrader, Sheldon Kinser, Tom Bigelow, J.J. Yeley, Dave Darland, Tony Elliott, Steve Butler, and Rich Vogler are just a sampling of some of the great USAC Sprint Car Champions.

This will be the first opportunity for many area fans to see Tony Stewart and Kasey Kahne’s USAC Sprint Cars in competition.  Stewart’s 2008 drivers were Levi Jones (2005 & 2007 champion) and Tracy Hines (2002 champion), who finished second and third in points to Jerry Coons, Jr.  Both drivers will be back in 2009 with Stewart.  Brad Sweet and Brady Bacon were Kahne’s racers in 2008.

Traditional non-winged Sprint Car racing was the norm at Mercer before wings took over in 1980.  Since that time, only 11 non-winged races have been run and none as big as the one that will take place on Saturday, June 6 with a possible rain date of Sunday, June 7.

Advanced tickets are on sale for just $18, which is a $2 savings off the $20 day of event ticket price; however, advanced ticket holders will be permitted into the grandstands at 3:30 p.m. for preferred seating (one hour before general admission tickets go on sale) and will also have pit access free of charge until 5:30 p.m.  Advanced tickets will be on sale through May 31 and can be obtained by calling the office at 724-964-9300 or sending a check or money order to Mercer Raceway Park, 4368 Route 422, Pulaski, PA 16143.

“CRASHING THROUGH THE SNOW” DRAWING NEAR WITH “JACK FROST 150” ENDURO & “SNOWBALL” DEMO JANUARY 3;

BANQUET TO BE HELD JANUARY 17

By Mike Leone

December 6, 2008                 

(Mercer, PA)…“Crashing Through the Snow” at Mercer Raceway Park is drawing near!  The second annual edition will take place on Saturday, January 3 at 1 p.m. and is being presented by longtime marketing partner Hovis Auto & Truck Supply with his 12 stores throughout western Pennsylvania.

“The Jack Frost 150” Enduro returns with 150 laps of pure excitement around the 3/8-mile track.  Last year’s inaugural event was run in all day rain on a frozen track that saw a muddy Leigh Wheeler emerge victorious with over 120 cars entered.   The Enduro will pay the top five finishers with a big $1,000 going to the winner. 

There is still plenty of time to enter and take advantage of the $50 early registration fee, which includes driver’s pit pass and scorer’s admission into the grandstand.  From December 23 on, the entry increases to $100.  The Enduro will be cut off at 150 entries.  Those that have entered will be receiving their car number and grandstand token in the coming weeks.  For rules and entry form, check out the website at www.mercerracewaypark.com.

Following the Enduro will be a smash ‘em, crash ‘em “Snowball” Demo Derby.  While last year’s Derby was restricted to 1980 and newer cars, this year’s rules have reverted back to prior year Demo Derbies.  The top three spots will pay with $500 going to the winner and if there are 50 or more cars, positions four through six will pay.  There is no entry fee for the Demo Derby, only a $20 pit pass.  For rules, check out our website at www.mercerracewaypark.com.

While all the heated VIP Suites sold out immediately, there are still many reserved viewing spots available around turns one and two; however, these all sold out last year before the day of the event.  Send a check or money or for $20 to Mercer Raceway Park at 4368 Route 422, Pulaski, PA 16143 and we will send you back your parking pass. 

“We’re looking forward to this year’s event,” expressed 10^th year owner Vicki Emig.  “We would have never imagined the success of last year’s show especially with the rain and temps in the mid 30s.  It was so much fun for both the competitors and the fans!  Where can you take your entire family for just $15 for a day of fun outdoors in the middle of the winter?  Adults are just $6 and the concession stand will be open as well.  I have to thank Hovis Auto & Truck Supply for coming on board and presenting this year’s event.”

Two weeks later, the Normandy Banquet Center will be the site of Mercer Raceway Park's annual awards banquet and dinner for the sixth straight year. The facility will host the affair on Saturday, January 17.  The Normandy Banquet Center, which is also the Hickory VFW Post 6166, is located on Route 62 just two miles east of Route 18 in Hermitage, Pa.

"We're thrilled to be going back to the Normandy Banquet Center for our banquet again," stated Emig. "They've done a great job hosting the affair the last five years and have we've heard nothing but praise. The facility is top notch and the food is excellent. The location is perfect and it's a short drive for the majority of our attendees."

Rod George (Kittanning, PA) will celebrate his second straight and third Luxaire Heating & Cooling Sprint Car Championship in the past four seasons. Frank Guidace (Mercer, PA) won his second Tire Express Modified Championship in the past three seasons and also became the inaugural McElwain Motors FASTRAK Late Model Champion in his first year in a Late Model.  Fifteen-year-old Bud Watson (Conneaut, OH) won his first championship of any kind as well as first career win in 2008 in the Big Daddy’s Speed Center Mod Lites.  Dillon Kineston (New Castle, PA) became the youngest champion in the 57-year of Mercer collecting the M&D Paving Mini Stock Championship. 

The top 10 in points of each division will receive their point fund monies and hardware.  Numerous special awards will also be given out.  Doors open at 5:30 with dinner at 6:30 p.m. The awards ceremony will follow dinner. The event is open to the public. Ticket information has been mailed out to the drivers. Tickets are $33.50 per person. If you would like to attend and did not receive the information, please contact our office at 724-964-9300 or e-mail us at webmaster@mercerracewaypark.com. 

Final 2008 Points:

Luxaire Heating & Cooling Sprint Cars: 1. ROD GEORGE (4) 438  2. Arnie Kent (18) 411  3. Gale Ruth, Jr. (5x) 346  4. Chris Shuttleworth (11) 316  5. Brent Matus (33) 313  6. Joe Butera (Matus 3J) 282  7. Jeremy Cook (5) 266  8. Mike Lutz (Chappel 8 & Preston 1P) 256  9. Scott Bonnell (3B) 243  10. Paul Kapuchuck (10) 222.

Tire Express (358) Modifieds: 1. FRANK GUIDACE (1G) 399  2. Gary Smoker (516) 392  3. Garrett Krummert (29) 388  4. Lonny Riggs (Black 58) 364  5. Eric Gabany (3E) 331  6. Rick Hall (B2) 320  7. Jimmy Holden (28H) 292  8. Kevin Green (74) 278  9. Matt Reeher (711) 274  10. Dillon McElrath (7) 266.

McElwain Motors FASTRAK Late Models: 1. FRANK GUIDACE (1G) 456  2. Rusty Moore (17M) 433  3. Brian Booher (00H) 427  4. Steve Hollabaugh (3H) 414  5. Bobby Powel (Bidwell B1D) 369  6. Mike Anderson, Jr. (72) 299  7. Max Blair (111) 201  8. Steve D’Apolito (84) 190  9. Gary Miller, Jr. (1M) 189  10. Dave Airgood, Jr. (42JR) 168.

Big Daddy’s Speed Center Mod Lites: 1. BUD WATSON (15) 491  2. Rod Jones (820)  3. Kenny Meadows (Teague 10T) 444  4. Alan Knepper (1) 433  5. Todd Canter (Teague 9T) 414  6. Terry Young (98) 389  7. Kotie Kirkbride (97N) 381  8. George Englert (11x) 369  9. Mark Marcucci (8M) 359  10. Bill Stivason (116) 356.

M&D Paving Mini Stocks: 1. DILLON KINESTON (19) 479  2. Dan McEwen (44) 477  3. Wally Stearns, Jr. (33) 399  4. Bill Fuchs (10) 388  5. Tyler Powell (36) 383  6. Pete Blazczak (77) 375  7. Ed Haylett (8-ball) 374  8. Scott Gilliland (27) 354  9. Steve Laslo (55) 346  10. John Shannon (14) 320.

GREEN FLAG TO FALL APRIL 18 ON MERCER’S NEW GM 602 CRATE STOCK CAR DIVISION

By Mike Leone 

December 1, 2008     

(Mercer, PA)…With the holidays upon us and the racing season just four months away, Mercer Raceway Park has made a commitment to offer an option to regional stock car drivers to participate in racing at an affordable cost.  Crate Stock Cars will become part of Mercer Raceway Park’s weekly program beginning April 18; this date has been chosen to give the racers additional time to get ready due to the newness of the division.

“After several weeks of considerable thought and discussions with area drivers, we have decided to move forward with this concept,” announced owner Vicki Emig.  “I believe strongly in this program and feel that it offers area racers an affordable option; one that will help them save money in these hard economical times.  Through growth it can also offer stability to this division in the future.” 

The division will be based on the concept and merits of the FASTRAK Late Model program, which has been very successful in two short years growing from basically no cars to start 2007 to 90 to end 2008.  There is no reason the precedent set by the FASTRAK template cannot turn into the same with Stock Cars. The beauty of the 602 allows one to start in the Stock Cars with the ability, if desired, to move up to FASTRAK.

“The 602 crate Stock Car division will be a home-grown division at Mercer,” said Emig.  “Reality is today that the majority of stock car drivers are one night a week racers; however, through the help of the racers and long research by tech inspector Brad Hibbard we have tried to stay in line with Tri-City, Raceway 7, and Lernerville rules, which will allow these drivers the ability to compete more than one night of week and be competitive if they choose to do so.  This has shown to be possible by Jason Johns and Steve D’Apolito in recent years.”

The class is based around standard regional stock car rules featuring the $3,150 GM 602 crate engine that runs on pump gas, $75 affordable and durable American Racer Tires, enforced body rules, and various claims and protests that will be in place.  The 2009 rules are now posted on our website at www.mercerracewaypark.com under Rules.  They are written in a condensed format that’s meant to be easily understood with the intent to eliminate gray areas.   

“I am not asking for miracles,” stated Emig.  “I realize this will be a building process and will not happen overnight.  I would be happy with a dozen cars to start- you have to start somewhere.  We’ve already gotten commitments from three of the area’s standout racers in 2001 & 2004 track champion Andy Buckley, 2002 track champion & 2004 “Little Guy Nationals winner Shaun Hooks, and Steve D’Apolito along with the return of Terry Kroner after a three-year absence.  We think fans will be surprised with some of the other racers that we expect to compete as some 35 racers have shown interest in the program.  Currently we have four $400 to-win special events for this new division.”

“Tracks that had 30, 40+ car counts in recent years are now down to barely full fields,” stated Emig.  “Promoters need car counts and racers want increased purses.  It’s time everyone starts working together.  In reality the ball is now in the racers’ court; it’s their choice to take a step with us toward the future.” 

“Many have been concerned that if we brought in the crate Stock Cars we were going to do away with our open Stock Car events,” expressed Emig.  “That was never our intention as they have been very popular with racers from throughout the region and have been great shows for the fans.  Tentatively we have five of these open shows scheduled beginning with our March 28 “Chiller Thriller.” 

If you are interested in participating in this class, we ask that you contact our office at 724-964-9300 to get on our mailing list.  For tech questions, call Brad Hibbard at 330-540-7223.

An informational seminar will be held at Big Daddy’s Speed Center in Grove City, Pa. during the last weekend of January.  Tech inspector Brad Hibbard will give a detailed presentation on the 602 crate motor and also discuss the various teching procedures that will be utilized on a weekly basis.

MERCER’S 358’S APPROACHING 5^th SEASON; FEATURING STRONG COMPETITORS NOW RECOGNIZED THROUGHOUT THE REGION’S MODIFIED RANKS; BIG SHOWS PLANNED FOR 09

By Mike Leone

November 26, 2008               

(Mercer, PA)… Four years later, Mercer Raceway Park’s 358 Modified division is one of the region’s most competitive modified classes in the area with a minimum of 10 drivers on a nightly basis capable of winning.  That represents nearly half of the average car count of more than 20 per night.  As 2009 approaches, the Park anticipates one of the richest schedule of events in the history of the division!

“I’m very proud of the quality of racing and the caliber of racers our 358 Modified division features on a weekly basis,” acknowledged owner Vicki Emig.  “It’s no secret that when I decided to drop the Big-Block Modifieds following the 2004 season that many questioned this decision and felt that I had doomed the future of the Park.  It was probably the hardest decisions I’ve made in the 10 years I’ve owned Mercer.  I wouldn’t trade this division for anything and have been extremely proud of how they have fared when competing against the region’s big blocks.  Two BRP Tour wins with Gary Smoker winning at Tri-City and Lonny Riggs victorious at Sharon’s $3,000 event highlighted the 358 performances.  They also had an amazing showing on their home turf during “The Return” by winning the three heats they competed in, the dash, and a third place feature finish by Lonny Riggs.”

For the second time in three years, Frank Guidace is the Tire Express Modified Champion at Mercer Raceway Park.  The Mercer, Pa. driver also made a successful Late Model debut winning the McElwain Motors FASTRAK Championship.  Guidace is the first driver since the track reopened in 1994 to win multiple championship in the same season.  Along with his four FASTRAK Late Model wins, Guidace added three more and an impressive nine top 5s in 12 races in the Modified division in his G&G Auto Outlet #1G.  Guidace ended the season winning the $2,000 “Little Guy Nationals” adding to his prior big wins in the “Bill Emig Memorial” and the “Jeff Hoffman Memorial”. 

Gary Smoker, also of Mercer, was hot on Guidace’s tail coming up only seven points shy of a second championship.  He won on opening night, but was unable to find victory lane again for the rest of the season.  Smoker finished in the top 10 every night with the exception of the season-ending, non-point “Little Guy Nationals,” where he finished 15^th.  Since the current 358 Modified division was added a weekly class in 2005, Smoker is the top winner with 14 victories and he was the inaugural championship.  Smoker made the 358 Modifieds proud when he upset the big blocks at Tri-City Speedway on May 25 for the BRP Tour event in the D&D Racing-owned, Kristyak’s Service Plaza/MBMR/Bell Boyz Toilet Rental-sponsored #516.

Finishing third only 11 points behind Guidace was Garrett Krummert.  In 2007, Krummert won his first title and was the youngest Modified champion in track history at 18 years of age.  Though Krummert was shutout of victory lane in 2007, this past season Krummert got that monkey off his back as he scored his first three career Modified wins.

Lonny Riggs had what you could call a career year.  His three wins tied Guidace and Krummert for tops in the division.  More importantly he won his second “Bill Emig Memorial” worth $1,500 on September 5 and then scored his biggest career win two weeks away from Mercer.  That $3,000+  win came at Sharon Speedway, as he became the second Mercer 358 small-block to dethrone the BRP big blocks.  The Volant, Pa. racer finished fourth in Mercer points in the Merle Black-owned, Pitt Stop Pub/Iron Bridge Inn-sponsored #58.

Completing the top five in points was another Mercer, Pa. driver in Eric Gabany.  The 2007 showed great promise for the rookie racer as he scored his first career.  Gabany was able to add his second career win during the 2008 campaign and improve from 13^th in points in 2007 to fifth in 2008.  Gabany drove his Atlantic Timberframes/E&E Welding/Shaver Barber Shop-sponsored #3E to six top 5 finishes doubling his total of three with four less starts from one year ago.  Other than his win, Gabany turned in his most impressive efforts with a seventh place effort against the big blocks in the BRP Tour event on August 16 and a third place finish in against a stout field of T3 All-Star competitors in the “Little Guy Nationals”.

Though the drivers in positions six through ten were unable to score a victory, they were competitive all season long.  Veteran Rick Hall had three top 5s to place in the sixth position as he has now finished in the top seven in points in one of the three modified divisions he’s competed in every year since the track reopened in 1994 with the exception of 1995.  That’s 14 of the past 15 seasons! 

Young Jimmy Holden missed two events, but still was able to finish seventh in points with six top 5s.  The Tiona, Pa. driver competed for the first time with New York-based T3 All-Star Modified Series where he placed second in points losing the championship on the final night to veteran star Billy VanPelt. 

After finishing just 10 points out of the top 10 behind Jimmy Holden in 2007, Kevin Green upped his finishing position to a career best eighth, 14 points behind Holden.  The New Castle, Pa. low-buck racer tows to the track by himself in his open trailer and is generally his only crew member.  Green turned in his best career finish in second to Lonny Riggs on June 7 and later in the year on August 2 won his first career heat race beating the likes of Smoker, Riggs, and Hall. 

Matt Reeher of Volant, Pa. kept his string of finishing in the top 10 in points all four years alive as he came home in the ninth position with a season best fifth on June 7.  Completing the top 10 was rookie driver Dillon McElrath.  The Mercer, Pa. driver turned in his two best efforts the first two weeks of the season finishing in sixth both nights.

Jeff Schaffer was also victorious, but failed to finish in the top 10 in points.  Other drivers like Mike Stine, Brian Fink, Steve Barr, John Buchanan, Mark Frankhouser, Randy Brown, Matt Howsare, Ron Eperthener, Jr., and Brad Rapp were contenders when they competed.    

Currently there are four significant special events for the division during 2009.  The 358s have been added to the “Steel Valley Memorial Day Classic” with a $1,000 to-win event.   The “Bill Emig Memorial” paying $1,500 to-win will take place on July 25.  For the first time ever, two complete shows will be run at the “Little Guy Nationals” with a $1,000 to-win on Friday night and $2,000 to-win sanctioned by the T3 All-Stars on Saturday, September 26.  Two additional increased purse events are still in the planning stages for the month of June.  Another big-block/small-block clash is expected to happen near the end of summer in another BRP Tour event. 

“358 Modifieds have found their home at Mercer Raceway Park”, said Emig. “They have also added a unique niche to western Pennsylvania Modified racing.  We look forward to them entertaining our fans once again in 2009 with their wheel-to-wheel, always on the edge excitement, and wholeheartedly support them when they go into the trenches with the big blocks.”

The top 10 358 Modified drivers will be honored at the annual awards banquet and dinner on Saturday, January 17, 2009 at the Normandy Banquet Center/Hickory VFW on Route 62 in Hermitage, Pa.

Final 2008 Tire Express (358) Modified Points: 1. FRANK GUIDACE (1G) 399  2. Gary Smoker (516) 392  3. Garrett Krummert (29) 388  4. Lonny Riggs (Black 58) 364  5. Eric Gabany (3E) 331  6. Rick Hall (B2) 320  7. Jimmy Holden (28H) 292  8. Kevin Green (74) 278  9. Matt Reeher (711) 274  10. Dillon McElrath (7) 266.

MERCER ANNOUNCES CHRISTMAS TICKET & VIP PACKAGES; BUY EARLY & SAVE BIG FOR YOUR FAVORITE RACE FANS

By Mike Leone 

November 7, 2008      

(Mercer, PA)…Just in time for the holidays, Mercer Raceway Park has put together wonderful ticket and VIP packages for the upcoming 2009 season.  These greatly-reduced offers will be good only through the end of the year.  These are perfect gifts for those hard to buy race fans or simply treat yourself or family by taking advantage of these great savings. 

Buy a Santa 10-pack of general admission tickets for just $85 ($110 value) or a 6-pack for $55 ($66 value)!  Looking for the perfect stocking stuffer?  Buy single adult passes for $10 or a family passes for just $23! 

There was nothing like the Griswold’s so Mercer Raceway Park is honoring Christmas’ most infamous family that brought you the “Christmas Vacation” movie with the “Griswold Family Pass”.  Buy 10 family passes for just $195 and we’ll throw in one adult pit pass upgrade for a selected event and an 8x10 family photo with your favorite driver.  This is an $85 savings!  Or buy 6 family passes for just $130!

Santa has made his elves work extra hard over the Christmas holiday so we’re honoring them with the “Elves Night Out” VIP Package.  You’ll receive a 10x10 VIP suite, 10 general admission tickets, 10 food vouchers, 2 reindeer reserved parking passes, and a 15-minute meet & greet session with your favorite Mercer driver for just $195!  That’s a savings of $130!

“Rudolph’s Red Light Special” is the above package on any special race event for only $250!

“We’re always looking at new things and ways to promote Mercer Raceway Park,” explained owner Vicki Emig.  “With the current state of the economy, these packages serve as a dual purpose by providing perfect gifts for race fans while at the same time offering substantial savings.”

Please note that the above packages are good on “Saturday Night Live” non-special events only with the exception of “Rudolph’s Red Light Special” and these great offers will end on December 31, 2008 so be sure to act now and purchase the perfect gift for that race fan in your life.

MERCER ANNOUNCES $75 SPEC TIRE FOR PROPOSED 602 CRATE STOCK CAR CLASS

By Mike Leone

October 27, 2008                     

(Mercer, PA)…Mercer Raceway Park announced today that the spec tire that will be utilized for the proposed GM 602 crate Stock Car division will be an American Racer 8” tire priced at $75. 

“After discussions with American Racer’s Fred Woodard of Lias Tire, I am confident this tire is the right choice and will provide competitive racing at an extremely affordable price,” explained 10^th year owner Vicki Emig.  “The tire will be a Mercer-stamped tire with a hard compound that is similar to one that was used this past year on the Stock Cars at Bedford and Thunder Valley Speedways.  Like in FASTRAK Late Models, grooving and siping of tires will not be permitted, which will extend the durability of the tires.”

This division will be affordable in three very important aspects; first being the $3,100 GM 602 engine; second, the $75 spec tires compared to current Stock Car tires that retail well over $100; and finally the fact the GM 602 utilizes pump gas, which alone is more than 50% savings from high octane racing gas.   Couple these three reasons together along with the fact that the overall rules package will allow these cars to travel to other regional speedways and be very competitive should make this potential class attractive to area racers.   

“As in all divisions, racers have voiced their concerns about the ever-increasing costs of racing,” stated Emig.  “I hope the racers that have spoken about these concerns will seriously look as this program even those with open motors as they move forward toward 2009 facing rebuild costs comparable to the price tag of a new 602 engine.  This will be the first time in the history of our region that Stock Cars have the ability to compete against each other with the same motor and tires.”

Once again, with the start of the 2009 season about five months away, time is of the essence in making a final decision and creating a rules package.  With that in mind, an informational meeting has been scheduled for interested parties only on Saturday, November 15 at 4 p.m. and will be held at the Country Cooking Café looked at 6922 McCartney Rd., Lowellville, Ohio at the OH/PA State Line on Route 422.  The meeting will be restricted to the prospective driver and one accompanying crew member.  If interested in attending, please register your attendance by calling the track office at 724-964-9300.   

ROOKIE KINESTON WINS MINI STOCK POINTS; GROWTH CONTINUES; ENFORCING OF RULES TO KEEP CLASS STOCK TO CONTINUE IN ‘09

By Mike Leone

October 23, 2008      

(Mercer, PA)…After last competing at Mercer Raceway Park in 1982, the Mini Stocks were reborn 25 years later in 2007.  Lucas Sprouse was the lone competitor on April 21, 2007.  The class grew to six competitors one week later, more than doubled to 13 on June 9, 2007, and ended the year with a record 27 cars on September 28, 2007.  The average car count was 13 as 17-year-old Mike Anderson won the championship.

Enter 2008.  M&D Paving returned for the second straight year to sponsor the class.  Right out of the box on opening night, April 5, there were 13 cars.  For the first time ever, 20 cars were on hand for a regular show on April 26.  From July 4 on there were at least 20 cars every night except one (17 on Friday, September 5)!  The average car count was nearly 21 per night!  A total of 61 different drivers competed in 52 different cars!

Dillon Kineston will go down in the record books as the youngest champion in the history of Mercer Raceway Park at 14 years of age.  The New Castle, Pa. driver won two races in the David Kineston-owned Equipment Rental Options/Kineston Auction Service/C&R Trailer/Fat Boyz Wingz ‘n Thing-sponsored #19 and edged out Dan McEwen by two points in the track’s closest point race.  Kineston is the grandson of former racer Carl Wagner. 

The division boasted an impressive 11 different winners including Kineston, Chris Myers, Bill Fuchs, Pete Blazczak, John Shannon, Cory Kilgore, McEwen, Curtis Brown, Kyle Colwell, Stephen Laslo, and Steve Mowery. 

Other drivers like Scott Gilliland, Dan Nagy, Ed Haylett, Wally Stearns, Jr., Tim Callahan, Dillon Barr, rookie teens Tyler Powell, Kyle Crawford, and Jerry Batcher were fast all year, but couldn’t quite get in victory lane. 

“We are very proud of the Mini Stock division,” expressed 10^th year owner Vicki Emig.  “It’s really accomplished what we had hoped for when we made the announcement at the end of the 2006 season.  It’s brought so many youngsters into racing and given so many the opportunity to race that otherwise wouldn’t have been able to do so.  The growth has really been amazing.  It seemed like every week we were getting a new car or two.” 

As the division grew, a stronger emphasis was put on tech, which saw numerous racers disqualified throughout the season.  That trend will continue in 2009 with new tech inspector Brad Hibbard.

“I have to thank Randy Myers for his excellent dedication and hard work at Mercer,” said Emig.  “Brad brings a wealth of racing knowledge.  He’s been the FASTRAK Tech Inspector the past two seasons and has even teched in national events in Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, and Ohio and learned a lot from working with Randy this past year.  We’re excited to have him as our tech inspector and he’s really looking forward to jumping in head first with the Mini Stocks.”   

“I want to see a different winner every week,” stated Hibbard.  “Those that show dominance better be prepared to stay (in tech).  I want to keep this division growing.  I have a specific idea on a teching procedure that’s going to be quick and easy and plan to catch the cheaters.  I’ll admit I’m still green at this, but I’m going to lean on Randy (Myers) a lot.  If anyone has ideas or anything additional I should be on the look out for, please call me.  I’m available just about all the time and would be glad to meet and discuss your ideas.  

Mercer Raceway Park was happy to add specials for the Mini Stock class this past season and that will continue in 2009 due to the excellent support.  The new rules will be posted on the website at www.mercerracewaypark.com as soon as they are available.  For questions on rules and teching, call Brad Hibbard at 330-540-7223.    

Mercer Raceway Park will open the new year with “Crashing Through the Snow” featuring the “Jack Frost 150” Enduro and the “Snowball” Demo Derby on Saturday, January 3.  The annual awards banquet and dinner will be held on Saturday, January 17 at the Normandy Banquet Center Hickory VFW in Hermitage, Pa. 

INTEREST BUILDS FOR GM 602 CRATE STOCK CAR CLASS AT MERCER IN 2009; INFORMATIONAL MEETING SCHEDULED FOR NOVEMBER 15

By Mike Leone

October 16, 2008                     

(Mercer, PA)…Just over a month ago, Mercer Raceway Park issued a press release looking for feedback on the possibility of a GM 602 crate-only Stock Car class in 2009.  The response to date has been very good from racers who have called, e-mailed, and had various conversations with track representatives at many of the season-ending events throughout the region.  The feedback has been from a wide spectrum of both current Stock Car drivers and some that have not competed the last couple years. 

With the start of the 2009 season a little more than five months away, time is of the essence in making a final decision and creating a rules package.  With that in mind, an informational meeting has been scheduled for interested parties only on Saturday, November 15 at 4 p.m. and will be held at the Country Cooking Café looked at 6922 McCartney Rd., Lowellville, Ohio at the OH/PA State Line on Route 422.  The meeting will be restricted to the prospective driver and one accompanying crew member.  If interested in attending, please register your attendance by calling the track office at 724-964-9300.   

The Stock Car division was a long-standing tradition at Mercer Raceway Park; however, with rising costs and falling car counts the class was dropped in 2008 in favor of the FASTRAK Late Models, which predominately feature GM 604 crate engines.  Mercer Raceway Park is now excited about the possibility of reintroducing the Stock Car division in 2009 with mandated GM 602 engines, which retail for around $3,000, and an extremely cost-effective spec-tire.  Not only will drivers save on their engine program and tire bill, but also their fuel bill will be cut more than half going from high octane racing gas to pump gas. 

As with the successful introduction of the FASTRAK Late Model division two years ago in the Northeast, Mercer Raceway Park feel there is also a need and demand for affordable Stock Car racing.  “We’re not trying to take anything away those that are happy with their current Stock Car programs and the speedways that are running them,” explained 10^th year owner Vicki Emig.  “If they are happy with this program, then that is what they should continue to pursue.  We’ve learned a lot in two years with the FASTRAK Late Models and will bring that model, especially the stringent teching procedures, to this division.”

The intent of this concept is to attract those that can’t afford the current state of the division, are on the verge of quitting, and to possibly bring back some of those that have recently quit.  “I believe there are a great number of these types of Stock Car racers in our area and hope that this program will offer them an attractive alternative that will again allow them to have fun racing.    Once again everything in its time and place and as with the FASTRAK Late Models we believe that area Stock Car drivers should have the opportunity to make a choice.” 

A sliding scale payoff system based on car counts will be utilized and will be available for the racers to see at this meeting.   The goal is to have at least 12-15 cars competing during the first season.  A tentative set of rules and the spec tire and pricing will also be made available for those in attendance.  While this would be a homegrown division at Mercer, the rules would still give racers the ability to compete at other regional speedways. 

It has already been proven that the GM 602 crate engine can be successful as Steve D’Apolito started the GM 602 crate success won the 2007 Applefest 100 at Tri-City Speedway and Jason Johns exhibited a lot of success the second-half of the 2008 season at Tri-City with four victories.  There is no reason an all GM 602 Stock Car division cannot provide great competition for the drivers and abundant excitement for the fans. 

It also should noted that the GM 602 engine can be taken and placed in a FASTRAK Late Model for those looking to move up the racing ladder.  Mike Pegher, Jr. exhibited great success with the 602 as he won eight features in his first full season in a Late Model beating the higher powered engines on bigger tracks such at Raceway 7’s Northeast Touring event and weekly events at both Pittsburgh’s Pennsylvania Motor Speedway and Dog Hollow Speedway.  Pegher has also qualified for both nights of the $250,000 FASTRAK Late Models Grand Nationals thus far.

Once again, it is important that interested parties contact the Mercer Raceway Park office at 724-964-9300 to register their attendance.

BLAIR INCHES CLOSER TO $50K WITH FASTRAK GRAND NATIONAL WIN; MOLLICK WINS $2K IN LATE MODELS; WATSON TOPS 58 E-MODS FOR $2K; MOWERY SWEEPS MINIS

By Mike Leone 

October 4, 2008

(Mercer, PA)… Mercer Raceway Park concluded the 2008 season Saturday night with the inaugural running of the “Fall Brawl” presented by McElwain Motors.  After a week of rain, sunny skies returned on Saturday for one of the few times this seasons, but by night’s end the temperature dropped into the 30s.  Celebrating in the Hoosier Tire victory lane were Max Blair-McElwain Motors FASTRAK Late Models, John Mollick-Super Late Models, Joel Watson-United E-Mod Series, and Steve Mowery-M&D Paving Mini Stock feature 1 and 2.  One hundred thirty-seven cars filled the pit area.  It was also PPC Lubricants Corp. Night.  Over $1,000 was collected for veteran push truck driver Dana “Tiny” Reeher to cover the costs of the recent passing of his father.

Max Blair is one step closer to $50,000.  The Centerville, Pa. racer has already won the $10,000 National Weekly Point Championship and the $5,000 Northeast Touring Series Championship.  Saturday night, Blair passed veteran Dick Barton to win the 30-lap $2,000 McElwain Motors feature in the kickoff of the $250,000 FASTRAK Grand Nationals for the Northeast Region.  

“This is awesome I don’t even know what to say, but I can’t wait to go down south,” expressed Blair.  “I’m shaking; this is the best thing and the biggest race I’ve ever won.  Definitely the highlight of my whole career.  If I can go down and compete with those boys I’ll be happy, but man is this the way to start it out.  When I started this year I wanted to win and race or two.  I never ever dreamed it would work out the way it did this year.  The year I’ve had is a once in a lifetime season and I’ll probably never have one again.  I’m just enjoying every second of it.” 

Mike Pegher, Jr. overtook John Lacki at the start for the early lead.  Barton and Blair started fourth and fifth and raced under Lacki for second and third respectively on lap two.  After a caution with two laps completed, Barton and Blair took over the top two spots from Pegher.  Blair hounded Barton diving under the leader and the two raced side-by-side on laps five and seven.  Tom Snyder, Jr., who started sixth, became a contender when he grabbed fourth from the fading Lacki on lap eight. 

The laps ticked off under green flag conditions.  Barton caught lapped traffic on lap 14.  Fast qualifier, Bobby Powell, came from eighth to take fourth from Snyder on lap 14.  It was a five-car race up front as all of the top five were potential winners.  Barton stretched out his lead in lapped traffic on lap 15.  The 14 laps of green flag conditions ended when Andy Buckley spun bringing out the caution with 16 laps completed. 

Powell and Snyder had a great battle going for fourth as the two kept swapping the position back and forth.  Third place Pegher got sideways on lap 19 and a 10-car melee ensued.  Most of the cars suffered minor damage and would restart.  When racing resumed, Blair again got alongside Barton and the two raced side-by-side on lap 19.  Blair made his winning move as he went up top in turns three and four and came out with lead coming off the outside of turn four.  Snyder got back by Powell for third on lap 21.

The last 10 laps went green-to-checkered.  Blair pulled away on lap 22 and went on for his third Mercer win of the year and biggest of his career in his Specialty Products/Loney Timber/Moody Welding/Eagle Hoist & Winch-sponsored #111.  “Dad (Robbie) skipped the Big Kahuna ($12,000 MACS show in Cumberland, MD) tonight and even considered bringing his car here tonight, but I didn’t want my deal on the back burner and he said ok.  He never asked a question and just said I’m going to go and help you.  The number one cool thing about winning this race is I passed Dick Barton.  He’s one of the best drivers in the country and that makes this 10 times more special if I hadn’t had to pass him.”  

Barton, who finished fifth in the 2001 Grand National points, set himself up nicely with a run for the $50,000 with his second place finish.  Snyder held on to third and will look to improve on last year’s 18^th place Grand National finish.  Dennis Lunger, Jr. and Butch Lambert had solid runs in fourth and fifth after starting 11^th and 13^th respectively.  Completing the top 10 were Steve Hollabaugh, Powell, Jay Watson, Brian Booher, and Kevin Meadows.  Heat winners were Lambert, Watson, and Jim Frank.  Rusty Moore won the B main.  Powell set fast time with a lap of 17.594.  Twenty-seven of the 43 eligible racers were on hand.

John Mollick came out on top of a wild, caution-filled 25-lap Super Late Model feature for the $2,000 victory.  “We got a pretty good Ford in there,” acknowledged the Toronto, Ohio racer.  “We had some stumbling problems on the restarts, but we brought her home.  I’m not sure what’s going on with it, but we’ve got to fix it.  I got lucky every single restart.  I would have liked to put on a better show for the fans.  I hate to start up front, but I’ll take it- we’ve had a tough year.”   

Pole-sitter Dan Swartzlander got into Jason Flory on the start and a seven-car crash occurred in turn one on the opening lap.  Mollick, who then restarted from the pole, was slow on the restart allowing Jeff Henry and Doug Eck to take the top two spots.  On lap two, it was three-wide coming off turn two down the backstretch with Eck coming out with the lead, Mollick to second, George Lee to third, and Henry back to fourth.

Eck’s lead would only last a lap as he spun coming off turn four on lap three.  The lead was then handed to Mollick with 11^th starting Brent Rhebergen up to second.  Three cautions slowed action between laps five and 15 before the final 10 went non-stop. 

Mollick pulled away under green flag conditions to score his first career Mercer win in his L&R Racing/Ridge Machine-sponsored #4J.  Greg Oakes had an excellent run coming from 15^th to finish second.  Oakes passed Lee for third on lap 12 and then ran down and drove under Rhebergen for second coming off turn four on lap 22.  Rhebergen was third over Lee and 18^th starting John Flinner, Jr.  Chad McClellan and Billy Henry were sixth and seventh.  Recent Stock Car graduate Jason Fosnaught finished eighth after starting 20^th in his FASTRAK-legal car.  Jeff Walters and Jim Rozum were ninth and 10^th.  Mollick, Lee, and Chris Hackett won the heats over the 29-car field.  Jim Detman won the B main. 

Joel Watson put on a great drive to the front coming from 12^th to win over a star-studded field in the 30-lap $2,000 to-win United E-Mod Series feature.  A record 58 cars battled in the richest E-Mod race in the history of Mercer. 

“I tried to do a little different line,” explained the Conneaut, Ohio winner.  “I went down to the inside cause every time I restarted it seemed like somebody was putting it right up underneath me and I wasn’t about to lose it on the last lap.  We like towing all over to improve our game and all be a son of a gun she was hooked up tonight.  The $2,000 will help big time.” 

Rich Michael, Jr. took off from the pole position with David Scott moving from fourth to second and Shawn Shingledecker sixth to third on the first lap.  Shingledecker drove under Scott for second on lap seven.  Ninth starting Randy Hall, who won the United E-Mod Series opener back on April 5, went under Scott for third in turn two on lap eight, but Scott found a great line in turn three and four passing both Hall and Shingledecker back for second.

The event’s first caution was displayed with 11 laps completed.  When racing resumed, Scott, who fell back to fourth just three laps earlier, took the lead from Michael as Hall moved to third past Shingledecker.  Watson became a contender when he drove to the outside of Hall and Michael for second on lap 14.  One lap later, positions continued to be changed as Hall took third from Michael.

Watson took the lead for the first time when he put a slider on Scott in turn four on lap 18.  Scott didn’t give up though as he put Bootie Petsko’s #00 back into the lead on lap 23.  Scott’s lead was short-lived as it was three-wide for the lead in turn two on lap 24 with Watson coming out on top and Hall to second. 

Watson would hold off Hall for his first career Mercer win in the Derrick Cooper-owned, ARP Automotive/TCI Power Coatings-sponsored #92 to become the 14^th different E-Mod winner in the 24 races run all-time at Mercer.  Scott’s great run ended with a flat tire on lap 29 allowing Shingledecker to take third.  Russ Dunn was fourth over 21^st starting Justin Carlson.  Bob McCann, Carl McKinney, Daryl Charlier, Scott Gurdak, and Mike Eschrich were sixth through 10^th.  Topping the heat races were Hall, Kyle Bedell, Dick Barton, Shingledecker, Brent Rhebergen, and Dunn.  Winning the three B mains were McCann, Charlier, and Carlson.

Steve Mowery made the long tow down from Olean, New York profitable as he swept both M&D Paving Mini Stock features for a $300 payday.  Mowery’s first ever win came in the 12-lap feature earning a $100 then came back to win the 15-lap, $200 to-win inaugural “Leland Haylett” Memorial put on by Leland’s fellow competitors    

In the first feature, Mowery started 11^th and inherited the lead on lap six when leaders Dillon Kineston and Scott Gilliland tangled.  Mowery then held off Curtis Brown to become the division’s 10^th different winner of the season in his #48.  Third through fifth were Pete Blazczak, Tim Callahan, and Dillon Barr.  Gilliland and Stephen Laslo won the heats over the 23-car field. 

In the “Leland Haylett Memorial,” Mowery came from 13^th to pass Kineston on lap six and cruised to the night’s sweep.  Mowery donated his $200 winnings to Dana Reeher!  After crashing battling for the lead in the first feature, 14-year-old champion Kineston came back to finish second.  Ricky Mellinger made his racing debut and finished third.  Rudolph Troples was a season-best fourth over Ed Haylett.  Event director, Wally Stearns said, "I would like  to thank  the Dan Nagy family, Pete Blazczak, Ehrenberg Racing (Jordan Ehrenburg J D 57), the Curtis Brown Family, Bill Fuchs, and the Ed Haylett Family for the financial support. Thank you Vicki for the beautiful plaque for the winner that was the icing on the cake for me. What a great job everyone did to make this event run smoothly." 

McElwain Motors FASTRAK Late Models Grand Nationals Night 1 (30 laps, $2,000 to-win): 1. MAX BLAIR (111)  2. Dick Barton (Nielson 28B)  3. Tom Snyder, Jr. (1F)  4. Dennis Lunger, Jr. (Schwartz 17L)  5. Butch Lambert (27)  6. Steve Hollabaugh (3H)  7. Bobby Powell (Bidwell B1D)  8. Jay Watson (7x)  9. Brian Booher (Hoover 00H)  10. Kevin Meadows (Welsch 49)  11. Chris Haines (35H)  12. Dan Angelicchio (14)  13. John Lacki (7)  14. Bob Diver (23)  15. Andy Buckley (Robinson 34R)  16. Chris Angelicchio (54)  17. Rusty Moore (17M)  18. Alex Anderson (Woodard 22x)  19. Dave Lyon (14L)  20. Mike Pegher, Jr. (Geisler 1C)  21. Carl McKinney (6M)  22. Mike Anderson, Jr. (72)  23. Jim Frank (14*)  24. Dereck Frank (16*)  DNQ: Bob Kish (5), Gary Miller, Jr. (1m), Chad Myers (01).

Super Late Models (25 laps, $2,000 to-win): 1. JOHN MOLLICK (4J)  2. Greg Oakes (22)  3. Brent Rhebergen (07R)  4. George Lee (61)  5. John Flinner, Jr. (48)  6. Chad McClellan (119)  7. Billy Henry (McGee 21*)  8. Jason Fosnaught (J19)  9. Jeff Walters (Damico 18)  10. Jim Rozum (91)  11. Kari Gasser (0K)  12. Ron Bem (49)  13. Jim Detman (111)  14. Bryan Salisbury (26)  15. Doug Eck (03)  16. Charles Suplee (67)  17. Jeff Henry (J7)  18. Corey Ruffo (38R)  19. Jeremy Canada (23c)  20. Dave Hess, Jr. (44)  21. Greg Gellner (21G)  22. Dan Swartzlander (3)  23. Jason Flory (02)  24. Chris Hackett (33)  DNQ: Tom Bateman (32), Ray Kroll, Sr. (15), Ben Porter (16B), Tim Burns (*2B), Jeremiah Shingledecker (37MD).

United E-Mod Series (30 laps, $2,000 to-win): 1. JOEL WATSON (Cooper 92)  2. Randy Hall (10)  3. Shawn Shingledecker (54s)  4. Russ Dunn (Oliveri 47)  5. Dick Barton (Carlson 16)  6. Bob McCann (Fornataro 33)  7. Carl McKinney (Hendrickson 6M)  8. Daryl Charlier (12)  9. Scott Gurdak (5G)  10. Mike Eschrich (37B)  11. Tim Deutsch (White 53)  12. Vic Vena (01)  13. Tim Peterson (07P)  14. Butch Lambert (Neely 27)  15. Mike Knight (Clinger 222)  16. Kyle Scott (3JR)  17. David Scott (Petsko 00)  18. Dave Hess, Jr. (44H)  19. Justin Carlson (16)  20. Rich Michael, Jr. (17x)  21. Brent Rhebergen (Suppa/Stitzinger 4s)  22. Scott Jones (71J)  23. Mike Munsee (Hagberg 27H)  24. Gary Eicher (Clinger 222)  25. Craig Bedell (7J)  DNQ: Fuzzy Stiffler (11), Greg Oakes (Michael 17), Darren Tarabori (6), Andy Sweetland (06), Rick Robinson (34R), Bill Taylor (41), Kyle Bedell (44), Gary Sullivan (47s), Tom Norland (52), Bruce Dreistadt (18D), Brandon Blackshear (59), Bill Westlake (51), Jeff Hassay (10), Dave Atkinson (Beck 7), Ed Wilson (33), Chuck Steinle, Jr. (71K), Tom Martineck (65), Denny Nakutis (48), Jeff Walters (18), Shane Crotty (4), Steve Haefke (73), Rick Pratschler (5T), Tim Engles (68), Bob Diver (23), Randy Sprouse (R5), Mike Butler (52), Ed Snyder (Cryster 25), Howard Fraley (217), Jason Stanke (44), Bob Williamson (93), Scott Stiffler (14), Justin Tatlow (81), Al Brewer (71).  

M&D Paving Mini Stocks (12 laps, $100 to-win): 1. STEVE MOWERY (48)  2. Curtis Brown (67)  3. Pete Blazczak (77)  4. Tim Callahan (Stewart 26T)  5. Dillon Barr (15)  6. Wally Stearns, Jr. (33)  7. John Shannon (14)  8. Bill Fuchs (10)  9. Troy Lehnortt (46)  10. Adam Bulfone (19JR)  11. Jr. Baker (Haylett 12)  12. Dave Heberling (1H)  13. Jerry Batcher (Blazczak 7)  14. Rudolph Troples (28)  15. Ed Zahniser (Kloos 62K)  16. Steve Walker (McEwen 4)  17. Scott Gilliland (27)  18. Dillon Kineston (19)  19. Dan Nagy (17B)  20. Stephen Laslo (55)  21. Ed Haylett (8-ball)  22. Cory Kilgore (0)-DNS  23. Brad Shaffer (17)-DSQ.

M&D Paving Mini Stock “Leland Haylett Memorial” (15 laps, $200 to-win): 1. STEVE MOWERY (48)  2. Dillon Kineston  3. Ricky Mellinger (Kloos 62K)  4. Rudolph Troples (28)  5. Ed Haylett (8-ball)  6. Dan McEwen (44)  7. Pete Blazczak (77)  8. Adam Bulfone (19JR)  9. Jr. Baker (Haylett 12)  10. Tim Callahan (Stewart 26T)  11. Wally Stearns, Jr. (33)  12. Jerry Batcher (Blazczak 7)  13. Dillon Barr (15)  14. Bill Fuchs (10)  15. Stephen Laslo (55)  16. Dan Nagy (17B)  17. Curtis Brown (67)  18. John Shannon (14)  19. Scott Gilliland (27)-DNS  20. Dave Heberling (1H)-DNS.

Guidace’s Dream Season Continues With $2k T3 Mod Win; Dellinger Repeats $2,000 Little Guy Nat’S Stock Win; Jones Again In Mod Lites; Bish, Sr. Returns To Win Strictlies

By Mike Leone 

September 27, 2008

(Mercer, PA)…Mercer Raceway Park concluded the ninth annual “Little Guy Nationals” presented by American Racer/Lias Tire on Saturday night as 134 cars filled the pit area.  Celebrating in the Hoosier Tire victory lane were Frank Guidace-T3 All-Star Tire Express Modifieds, Alan Dellinger-Stock Cars, Rod Jones-STAR’s Championship Tour Big Daddy’s Speed Center Mod Lites, and Curt Bish, Sr.-Strictly Stocks.  Despite rain in the forecast all weekend, which has been the story of 2008, rain stayed just to the east and south and didn’t fall until just minutes after the final checkered flag waved.

It’s been a dream season for Frank Guidace.  The 2006 Modified Champion won his second title this season with two wins as well a successful Late Model debut, which included that FASTRAK championship too along with four wins.  Saturday night, Guidace won his biggest race of the season capturing the 30-lap, $2,000 to-win T3 All-Star Modified Tire Express feature for his third Modified victory of 2008.

“This thing was on a rail from the beginning of the evening,” acknowledged the Mercer, Pa. racer.  “I really appreciate what everyone did for me down in the pit area and Carlin Hine, Troyer Chassis, and Shadow Racing Products.  Troyer sponsors this series so this is a big win for them.  Troyer is a great car.  I’ve done well with this car.  I have to take my hat off to my crew.  We were in line getting ready to go out and they started watering the track.  I backed out of the way and had them change the gear- definitely the move of the race.  I wouldn’t be standing here if it wasn’t for the last practice.  I had a vibration so I came down to shake it out for this race.  I found a broken yoke in the drive train and we would have definitely broke that tonight.” 

2001 “Little Guy Nationals” winner, Mike Stine, drew the pole position and raced to the early lead with Ray Bliss, Jr. and fourth starting Guidace in tow.  Following a restart with two laps completed, Lonny Riggs passed both Gary Smoker and Guidace for third.  Stine continued to lead as the laps ticked off.  By lap 10, Stine entered lapped traffic with a half-straightaway lead.  Guidace got back into contention passing Riggs in traffic for third on lap 13 then one lap later went to the outside of Bliss in turn four in heavy traffic to take second.

Three cautions slowed action between laps 14-19.  Under the second caution with 19 laps completed, Stine’s left rear tire began losing air.  On the ensuing restart, Guidace took over.  Stine would exit the track on lap 21 as Bliss regained second.  A nasty accident occurred on lap 22 when Garrett Krummert got into the rear of Bliss.  The contact sent  Krummert back across the track and ensued a 13-car pile-up with Ron Cartwright, Jr. taking a nasty series of flips.  All of the drivers were okay, but the same couldn’t be said for many of the cars. 

After the lengthy clean-up, the last nine laps went non-stop with Guidace backing up his 2006 victory in the event.  Guidace’s seventh overall win of the season, ninth in his career in the division, and 19^th overall at the track came in his G&G Auto #1G.  Bliss, a T3 regular, was second for his best ever Mercer finish.  Eric Gabany was third over 21^st starting Jimmy Holden and last year’s winner, Billy VanPelt.  Sixth through tenth were 18^th starting Brad Rapp, 22^nd starting Bryan Terwilliger, Stine, Dale Welty, and Mike Turner.  Heat winners over the season-high 33-car field were Gabany, Guidace, Bliss, and Stine.  The two B mains went to Holden and Terwilliger.     

Alan Dellinger joined Rusty Wheeler as the only repeat winners of the “Little Guy Nationals” after one of the most dominating performances seen at the track in recent memory in the 40-lap, $2,000 to-win Stock Car feature.  The win was Dellinger’s landmark 40^th of his career at Mercer and also tied Brian Booher as the division’s all-time winner with 32 victories.

“I was trying to keep it as straight as possible,” stated the Hermitage, Pa. winner.  “I was afraid I went a little soft on tires, but when I caught Bobby Whitling I realized I was real good.  I knew what he had on and I knew I was real good then.  I don’t know where second was at.  I was just going as fast as I could every lap.  If you slow up then they start to push.  You set them up all year to go as fast as they can so if you slow up they don’t work quite as good.”

Carl Marcy led the first lap, while Dellinger started in sixth and was up to third after the first circuit.  Tim Thompson spun running second on lap two and brought out the caution.  When racing resumed, Marcy was got sideways in turn two allowing Dellinger and 2004 winner Shaun Hooks by for the top two spots.  Marcy then got high on lap three, which allowed Chris Haines to take third. 

Martz’s shot at a sweep of the weekend ended on lap four when he got tangled up with Marcy, Jamie Barber, and Matt Keith.  When racing resumed, Haines took over second from Hooks.  Four more cautions slowed action between laps 8-17.  After spinning in second, Thompson had worked his way back to third only to suffer a flat tire, which moved Rob Bates to third for the restart. 

The final 23 laps would go non-stop as Dellinger showed just how dominate the Steve Burns-owned, Penn-Ohio Contracting-sponsored #70B is as he would lap all but the top three finishers as he took the checkered flag by exactly 10 seconds before runner-up Haines crossed the finish line. 

Haines capped off a great weekend with a $1,000 payday for second after finishing third on Friday night.  Young Tim Bish passed Bates on lap 26 to finish third and was the final car on the lead lap.  Dave Ferringer was able to get by Bates to finish fourth with Bates dropping to fifth at the finish.  Bobby Whitling was sixth and has now made all of the “Little Guy Nationals” A mains except in 2006 when he won the B consolation feature.  Hooks was seventh with Marcy, Russ Stanke, and Willie Aley rounding out the top 10. 

Along with Whitling, Hooks, Tony Bruno, and Willie and Mike Aley are the only racers to compete in all nine “Little Guy Nationals”.  Dellinger, Haines, Ferringer, Thompson, Bish, and Martz won the heats over the 63-car field, while Mike Aley, Whitling, and Pat Crawford won the B mains.  A total of 78 different Stock Car competed between the two days.

Despite being shutout of victory lane on the 2008 circuit, Gary Little captured the 15-lap Stock Car B consolation feature.  After qualifying for the A feature in his first two appearances in the “Little Guy Nationals,” the Clearfield, Pa. racer overtook Sid Haas at the start and held off Dale Yeaney to win $300 in his Littles Drive-In Auto Sales/Jessica’s Sense of Style-sponsored #2*.  Yeaney started seventh and passed Dan Smeal on lap 14 to finish second.  Smeal was third over Russ Coyne and Joe Rohrer.

Making his first “Little Guy Nationals” appearance since 2003 when he finished 19^th in the C consolation feature, Stan Woomer picked up his first ever Mercer checkered flag after capturing the 12-lap Stock Car C consolation feature.  The Warren, Ohio driver led all 12 laps in his #2 and was only slowed by two cautions, which occurred on laps two and three.  Jamie Duncan, Tim Folmer, Josh Seippel, and Gary Fisher completed the first five.

Rod Jones completed his second straight sweep of both days of the “Little Guy Nationals” after out-dueling Mikey Hay for the second straight night in the 25-lap Big Daddy’s Speed Center Mod Lite feature.  Jones’ ninth win of the season was worth a season-high $1,000 in the event sponsored by Wedge Motorsports and gave him $1,800 for the weekend.

“That was the most awesome race I’ve ever been in in one of these cars,” expressed the West Middlesex, Pa. racer.  “I have to thank my crew and all the guys at Jones Performance, my wife for being so patient, and Mikey Hay for that awesome race.  It’s just so exhilarating to race that close and know that the guy is not going to touch you.”

The caution-filled event was slowed nine times, but Jones and Hay put on a show with five lead changes.  Hay led the first two laps with Jones leading laps three through nine.  Hay got the lead back on lap 10 and held the spot until lap 14 when Jones regained the lead.  Hay wasn’t done as he led laps 21 and 22 before Jones retook the lead for good in turn one on lap 23.  Jones’ 19^th career Mod Lite win came in the Jones Performance #820 and was the 21^st of his career overall at Mercer.      

The Strictly Stocks were back at Mercer for the first time since the 2006 “Little Guy Nationals”.  Curt Bish, Sr., who was the 2004 track champion, became the fourth different winner of the event capturing the 15-lap feature, which paid $150.  “This is the first time this year (winning), but this is my track Mercer; come catch me and beat me here,” stated the Oil City, Pa. driver.

Curt Bish, Jr. passed Greg Myers for the lead on lap five.  Under caution with eight laps completed, Bish, Jr. and Myers got together twice with Myers receiving a flat tire and Bish, Jr. sent to the tail.  This gave the lead to Bish, Sr., who would go on to lead the final seven laps for his 18^th career Mercer win.  Jeff Manners edged his son Cody for second.  Dave Bass was fourth over Joe Sloss.

T3 All-Star Tire Express (358) Modifieds (30 laps, $2,000): 1. FRANK GUIDACE (1G)  2. Ray Bliss, Jr. (27z)  3. Eric Gabany (3E)  4. Jimmy Holden (28H)  5. Billy VanPelt (White 2)  6. Brad Rapp (11R)  7. Bryan Terwilliger (Wright 88m)  8. Mike Stine (7s)  9. Dale Welty (Kennison 9x)  10. Mike Turner (96)  11. Mark Frankhouser (03)  12. Ray Dann (6B)  13. Kevin Green (74)  14. Garrett Krummert (29)  15. Gary Smoker (516)  16. Lonny Riggs (Black 58)  17. Ron Cartwright, Jr. (2B)  18. Ron White (Gillett 5w)  19. Curt VanPelt (White 12)  20. John Buchanan (93)  21. Travis Shingledecker (73MD)  22. Tom Holden (15H)  23. Rich Whitney (19w)  24. Tim Guild (06)  25. Jarred Keeney (33)  26. Jeff Schaffer (4)  DNQ: Dillon McElrath (7), Mark Bailey (14B), Jim Turley (Hinkle 77), J.T. McKeenan (Keeney 832), Rick Hall (B2), Joe Gibson (119), Marvin Williams (69w), Dave Cogswell (8).

Stock Cars (40 laps, $2,000 to-win): 1. ALAN DELLINGER (Burns 70B)  2. Chris Haines (35H)  3. Tim Bish (1B)  4. Dave Ferringer (02)  5. Rob Bates (99B)  6. Bobby Whitling (7w)  7. Shaun Hooks (65)  8. Carl Marcy (1m)  9. Russ Stanke (44)  10. Willie Aley (9)  11. Jamie Barber (13)  12. Rod Laskey (1R)  13. Tim Thompson (5T)  14. Randy Wyant (11T)  15. Pat Crawford (7c)  16. Dale Yeaney (11Y)  17. Russ Byler (06R)  18. Matt Keith (15K)  19. Bobby Heim (92)  20. Chad Stevenson (21c)  21. Bob Rosman (48)  22. Mike Aley (99)  23. Rusty Martz (16M)  24. Andy Buckley (965)  25. Rusty Wheeler (44)-DNS.

Stock Car B Consolation (15 laps, $300 to-win): 1. GARY LITTLE (2*)  2. Levi Ardery (18)  3. Dan Smeal (44) 4. Russ Coyne (8c)  5. Joe Rohrer (RT 8)  6. Ken Zimmer (62)  7. Zachery Downes (33x)  8. Jim Bendishaw, Jr. (69)  9. Leigh Wheeler (2w)  10. Tony Bruno (97)  11. Jim McFadden (96)  12. Shaun Fawcett (224)  13. Dan Fedorchak (67)  14. Tim Burns (66)  15. Chris Edwards (037)  16. Cory McPherson (J19)  17. Sid Haas (3)  18. Brent Johnston (14J)  19. Ray Reynolds (23R)  20. Mike Gonzales (36)  21. Denny Crawford (75)-DNS  22. Adam Fulton (4T)-DNS  23. Jason Reagle (Virgile 11V)  24. Tim Deutsch (11D)-DNS.

Stock Car C Consolation (12 laps, $200 to-win): 1. STAN WOOMER (2)  2. Jamie Duncan (67J)  3. Tim Folmer (00)  4. Josh Seippel (84)  5. Gary Fisher (99F)  6. Fred Casagni (8c)  7. Lee Hummel (41H)  8. Dick Pascorell (87)  9. Bob Schwartzmiller (28s)  10. Nick Goss (80)-DNS  11. Dennis Wagner (12w)-DNS  12. Jim Wagner (8-ball)-DNS.  DNQ: John Watson (78), Denny Crawford (75)

Big Daddy’s Speed Center Mod Lites (25 laps, $1,000 to-win): 1. ROD JONES (820)  2. Mikey Hay (22)  3.Levi Spinneweber (10s)  4. Adam Leslie (15)  5. Angie Grzelak (57)  6. Shawn Sliter (71)  7. Rick Ament (27)  8. Richard Lawson (70x7)  9. J.J. Metheney (31c)  10. Josh Sliter (17)  11. Bill Stivason (116)  12. Tim White (Carey 93)  13. Alan Knepper (1)  14. Kotie Kirkbride (97N)  15. Mark Marcucci (8m)  16. Kenny Meadows (Salvino 31)  17. Todd Canter (Teague 9T)  18. Shane Pfeuffer (Lawson 40L)  19. Gene Buck (55)  20. George Englert (11x)  21. Lynn Knepper (10)  22. Bud Watson (13)  23. John Gerula, Jr. (54)  24. Tony Tatgenhorst (63)  DNQ: Jamie Gilbert (53), Lynn Bartlett (11), Josh Holtgraver (Flinner 75), Anthony Gillespie (Smith 38).

Strictly Stocks (15 laps, $150 to-win): 1. CURT BISH, SR. (30)  2. Jeff Manners (m16)  3. Cody Manners (16)  4. Dave Bass  5. Joe Sloss (46s)  6. Jason Swartz (77s)  7. Jim Boring (45)  8. Curt Bish, Jr. (00)  9. Eric Goldberg (714)  10. Greg Myers (43M).

MARTZ OPENS LITTLE GUY NAT'S WITH $1,000 STOCK WIN; JONES AGAIN IN MOD LITES; REUSSER TAKES MICROS; KILGORE REPEATS IN MINIS

By Mike Leone 

September 26, 2008

(Mercer, PA)…Mercer Raceway Park opened the ninth annual “Little Guy Nationals” presented by American Racer/Lias Tire on Friday night as 145 cars filled the pit area.  Celebrating in the Hoosier Tire victory lane were Rusty Martz-Stock Cars, Rod Jones-Big Daddy’s Speed Center Mod Lites, Todd Reusser-Micro Sprints, and Cory Kilgore-M&D Paving Mini Stock Cars.

On Memorial Day, Rusty Martz captured the $1,000 Ken Carbone Memorial for Stock Cars.  Friday night, Martz added another $1,000 to the bank account winning the 25-lap Little Guy Nationals preliminary feature.  “I want to thank everyone for coming out tonight and my family and pit crew- it was a great night,” expressed the Brookville, Pa. winner.  “We pulled a bad pill in the redraw, but I’d rather be the guy coming and know I’m faster.  We’re going to go for that 3-grand total tomorrow and that will help pay some bills.”

Terry Wheeler led the opening lap before Chris Schneider, Chris Haines, and Don Kramer all got by for the first three positions on lap two.  Schneider led laps two through six before getting high on lap seven allowing Haines to take the lead with 12^th starting Martz to second.  Schneider and Martz battled for second running side-by-side with the two trading the position back and forth.  Martz finally cleared Schneider on lap nine and was all over Haines on laps 10-12 before Russ Byler spun to bring out the caution. 

When racing resumed, Martz had too much power taking the lead.  Kramer was able to get by Schneider on the restart then drove to the inside of Haines in turn four to take second later that lap.  Martz survived two more cautions and was never challenged for his third career win in his St. Mary’s Chevrolet/Cypress Gift Shop/Faster Chassis-sponsored #16M.

It was a great battle for second with Kramer, who was making his first ever appearance, holding off Haines and Schneider.  Rush Firestone was fifth.  Completing the top 10 were Jamie Barber, Wheeler, Dave Ferringer, Joe Rohrer, and Carl Marcy.  Heat winners over the season-high 65-car field were Rohrer, Mike Gonzales, Haines, Martz, Wheeler, and Alan Dellinger.  The three B mains were won by Nick Shaffer, Byler, and Tim Bish.

Rod Jones won his track leading eighth victory of the season in the 20-lap Big Daddy’s Speed Center Mod Lite feature.  The victory was the richest of the year worth $800 in an event sponsored by Jones Performance.

After a five car pile-up on the opening lap, the 20 laps ran off non-stop.  From his third starting spot, Jones drove by Alan Knepper and Mikey Hay for the lead on lap one.  Jones drove a great race through lapped traffic for his 18^th career Mod Lite win and 20^th overall at the track in Jones Performance #820.  Hay held off a great run by Mark Marcucci in his new car for second.  Knepper dropped to fourth over Maryland invader Tim White.  Heat winners over the season-high 30-car field were White, Knepper, and Jones.

Todd Reusser captured his first ever “Little Guy Nationals” victory in the 20-lap, $750 to-win Micro Sprint feature.  “Thank you for putting a show on here,” stated the Minerva, Ohio winner.  “The track was fabulous.  I’m glad I could come in here and race.  I wish you could run us here every other week.  I like coming over here and running.  I have to thank Scott and his wife Jo Marie for giving me the ride and the fans for coming out.  I think old George (Hobaugh) missed a shift on that restart.  That doesn’t happen to him and feel bad for poor George.”

From the pole position, Mike Himes jumped out to the early.   Reusser, who started eighth, was up to fourth after a lap and moved into third on lap two past central Pa. invader Jim Myers on lap two.  Himes looked primed for the victory, but broke on lap 10 handing the lead to George Hobaugh. 

Hobaugh was slow on the restart as Reusser blasted by and led the final 10 non-stop laps in the Scott Gagne-owned #98 for his third career win.  Reusser became the third different winner in as many Micro Sprint events run this season.  Hobaugh was second over Steve Dunmire, Matt Nulph, and Nathan Karenbauer.  Heat winners over the season-high 24-car field were Karenbauer, Reusser, and Hobaugh. 

Cory Kilgore made it two-for-two this season and has now won in all three of his career appearances after being declared the winner of the 15-lap, $150 to-win M&D Paving Mini Stock feature when Russ Colwell and Brennan McCracken were both disqualified.

Colwell, who was subbing for his two-time winning son, Kyle, led all 15 laps holding off a hard charge by ninth starting newcomer McCracken; however, in post-race tech, Colwell was disqualified for illegal tires on and McCracken for a header pipe.  Kilgore’s win came in the Kevin Kilgore-owned #0.  After winning his first career race on September 5, Stephen Laslo came from 15^th to finish second.  Point champion Dillon Kineston was third with Cody Colwell and newcomer Chuck Magrell fifth.  Heat winners over the season-high 26-car field were Kineston, Dan Nagy, and Cody Colwell.  Wally Stearns, Jr. won the B main.

Stock Cars (25 laps, $1,000 to-win): 1. RUSTY MARTZ (16M)  2. Don Kramer (95)  3. Chris Haines (35H)  4. Chris Schneider (55)  5. Rush Firestone (21)  6. Jamie Barber (13)  7. Terry Wheeler (2W)  8. Dave Ferringer (02)  9. Joe Rohrer (RT 8)  10. Carl Marcy (1M)  11. Shaun Fawcett (224)  12. Jim Brunson (1-17)  13. Tim Bish (1B)  14. Ray Reynolds (23R)  15. Levi Ardery (18)  16. Russ Byler (06R)  17. Mike Gonzales (36)  18. Jim Bendishaw, Jr. (69)  19. Denny Curry (75)  20. Rod Laskey (1R)  21. Alan Dellinger (Burns 70B)  22. Nick Shaffer (22)  23. Bob Rosman (48)  24. Gary Little (2*)  DNQ: Shaun Hooks (65), Ken Zimmer (62), Rob Bates (99B), Tim Deutsch (11D), Chad Stevenson (21c), Bobby Whitling (7w), Dale Yeaney (11Y), Mike Aley (99), Stan Woomer (2), Matt Keith (15K), Matt Wagner (12W), Nick Goss (80), Bob Schwartzmiller (28s), Rusty Wheeler (44), Denny Crawford (75), Bruce Redman (27), Craig Koteles (64K), John Watson (78), Pat Crawford (7c), Jason Breegle (22), Randy Zechman (2), Dick Pascorell (87), Jamie Brown (135), Dave McLaughlin (115), Tim Folmer (00), Randy Wyant (11T), Tim Burns (66), Jim McFadden (96), Willie Aley (9), Gary Fisher (99F), Chris Edwards (037), Bobby Heim (92), Mike Harmon (09JR), Zachery Downes (33x), Tim Thompson (5T), Ray Virgile (11V), Russ Stanke (44), Ed Cornell (66c), Ed Snyder (039), Lee Hummel (41H), Jason Reagle (888).

Big Daddy’s Speed Center Mod Lites (20 laps, $800 to-win): 1. ROD JONES (820)  2. Mikey Hay (22)  3. Mark Marcucci (8m)  4. Alan Knepper (1)  5. Tim White (Carey 93)  6. Bud Watson (13)  7. George Englert (11x)  8. Tony Tatgenhorst (63)  9. Adam Leslie (15)  10. Kotie Kirkbride (97N)  11. Josh Sliter (17)  12. Todd Canter (Teague 9T)  13. Rick Ament (27)  14. Shawn Sliter (71)  15. Lynn Knepper (10)  16. Shane Pfeuffer (Lawson 40L)  17. Anthony Gillespie (Smith 38)  18. Lynn Bartlett (11)  19. Bill Stivason (116)  20. Kenny Meadows (Salvino 31)  21. Garrett Krummert (Spinneweber 20s)  22. Levi Spinneweber (10s)  23. John Gerula, Jr. (54)  24. Charles Campbell (99)  DNQ: Gene Buck (55), Mylan Markovich (2), Kyle Lawrence (41), Terry Young (98), Jamie Gilbert (53), Richard Lawson (70x7).

Micro Sprints (20 laps, $750 to-win): 1. TODD REUSSER (Gagne 98)  2. George Hobaugh (40)  3. Steve Dunmire (83)  4. Matt Nulph (9N)  5. Nathan Karenbauer (7s)  6. Brian Kishbaugh (5)  7. Jeff Bacha (48)  8. Jay Groves (25)  9. Jim Myers (45)  10. Ryan Fredricks (22R)  11. Brandon Gustin (80)  12. Tim Smith (404)  13. Mike Kerr (23K)  14. Clayton Mullett (20x)  15. Matt Gardina (41)  16. Don Huffman (Williams 7)  17. Dave Altman (20A)  18. Mike Himes (79)  19. Mike Borawiec, Jr. (1)  20. Greg Stewart (15)  21. Mike McKnight (21)-DNS  22. Mark Hummel (1H)-DNS  23. Sam Fulmer (F16)-DNS  24. Wes Libert (10L)-DNS. 

M&D Paving Mini Stocks (15 laps, $150 to-win): 1. CORY KILGORE (0)  2. Stephen Laslo (55)  3. Dillon Kineston (19)  4. Cody Colwell (67R)  5. Chuck Magrell (88)  6. Tim Callahan (Stewart 26T)  7. Jerry Batcher (Blazczak 7)  8. Rich Hartzell (38)  9. Dan Nagy (17B)  10. Wally Stearns, Jr. (33)  11. Steve Walker (4)  12. Cody McNaughton (21)  13. John Shannon (14)  14. Troy Lehnortt (46)  15. Rudolph Troples (28)  16. Bill Fuchs (10)  17. Adam Bulfone (19JR)  18. Shannon Heberling (1H)  19. Dan McEwen (44)  20. Dillon Barr (15)  21. Bob Pease (10P)  22. Pete Blazczak (77)  23. Russ Colwell (80JR)-DSQ  24. Brennan McCracken (17M)-DSQ  DNQ: Jordan Ehrenberg (JD57), Ed Haylett (8-ball).