8-28-11 August 27th Ventura Raceway Report
Source Cliff Morgan
Ventura Raceway

Matt Mitchell had a night to remember as he took home the victors check for over $7,000 and a beautiful trophy in the inaugural VRA Vendors Cup Race Saturday night by taking the 40 lap feature win over a strong field of 32 VRA 360 Sprint Cars. Starting from the pole position, he led all 40 laps holding off a strong challenge from Cory Kruseman who gave it all he ha to get by Mitchell. The race was a fast and furious event that saw two red flags slow the race. The first was for a flip in turn one involving VRA point leader Greg Taylor and later on lap 36 past VRA champ Kevin Kierce had a nasty side by side flip entering turn three. Both drivers emerged from their wrecked cars uninjured. Mitchell was driving Steve Watts number 81 sprinter Saturday night. Following Mitchell across the line in this prestigious event were Kruseman, Troy Rutherford, Brian Camarillo and Josh Ford. There were four heat races run Saturday night with wins going to Cliff Warren in the Extreme Muffler Heat One, Cory Kruseman in the Joie of Seating Heat Two, Brian Camarillo in the BR Motorsport Heat Three and Matt Mitchell in the Steve Watt enterprises Heat Four. The 12 lap Semi Main went to Johnathon Henry. At the end of the night Greg Taylor maintains a 230 point lead over Josh Ford in the season point race.

Ventura Raceway wants to thank all the vendors who contributed to make this the largest first place check in VRA Sprint Car history. Matt Mitchell's name is the first name on the Vendor's Cup perpetual trophy. We hope that this is the first of many Vendor's Cup Races to be held in future seasons.

VRA Midgets also were on the card Saturday night with many drivers doing dual duty. Johnathon Henry jumped out to an early lead and led the first 6 laps only to be passed by Jake Swanson who led then led until lap 26 when a flying Brian Camarillo passed him and went on to take the win. Camarillo roared around the top of he track thrilling the crowd with his daring style. The crowd roared when he took the lead and cheered loudly at his victory. Following him across the line were Jake Swanson, his brother Brent Camarillo, Cory Kruseman and Robby Josett. There were three heat races run with wins going to
Cory Kruseman in the West Evans Motorsports Heat One, Sean Dodenhoff in the Joie of Seating Heat Two and Brian Camarillo in Heat Three. Cory Kruseman, with his 2nd place finish keeps him 180 points ahead of Robby Josett in the point battle.

The Ford Focus Midgets were also on hand Saturday night. There was a small field of four Junior Focus racers but the night was very special for first time winner and past VRA Junior Midget Champion Brennan Rogers. He took the 12 lap feature win over Bradley Morris, Parker Colston and Katlynn Leer. Their one heat race went to Leer. In Regular Ford Focus competition, the heat race went to Bradley Morris and the main went to Casey Martinez, followed by Nick Carlson, Morris, Daniel Williams and Katlynn Leer.

IMCA Modifieds returned to action after the Ventura County FAIR event and it was point leader Aaron Rodarte showing his rear bumper to the field tasking the 20 lap main event win over brother and past champion Austin Rodarte, Josh Vogt, Steve Bulpitt and Rob Green. Dennis Eckert finished 4th in the event on track but failed post race tech. Two heats were run with wins going to Vogt in heat one and Austin Rodarte in heat two. With two races left in the IMCA schedule for 2011, Aaron Rodarte leads Brad Prows by 18 points.

The final competitors Saturday night were our VRA Go Karts. Johnny Conley took his second win in a row leading all 20 laps. finishing second through fifth were David Pankratz, Josh Ford, Jimmy May and Kenny Byers JR. They ran two heats with wins going to Ashley Hazleton and James Locy.

Auto racing now takes a weekend off as Ventura Raceway present the second of three Flat Track events. Bike and quad racers will battle on one of three tracks prepared for this special event. Riders on bikes and quads will run on an oval, road course and a TT styled motocross track. VRA competitors will be back in action on September 10.






 

8-28-11 Day Wins His Second Johnny Keu Classic With Victory at Watsonville
Source Steven Blakesley
Ocean Speedway

Salinas’ Ronnie Day stormed past Prunedale’s Justin Sanders with six laps to go in the 51st Johnny Key Classic to take the $5,000 victory before a huge crowd at Ocean Speedway in Watsonville on Saturday night. The win marks Day’s second of the 2011 season and his second Key win to go along with his 1998 victory at San Jose.

With the victory, Day also takes over the points lead in the Ocean Sprints presented by Taco Bravo with just three races left in the championship.

Two-time Johnny Key Classic winner Chuck Miller paced the field to green in a vintage race car and more than a dozen former winners were in attendance including six who competed in the event.

2009 Johnny Key Classic winner Tommy Tarlton won the $751 to win Dash for Cash to grab the pole position for the 50 lap feature. But Tarlton stumbled on the start allowing outside polesitter Kyle Larson to take the lead. A four car pile-up on the initial green ended the night for Tommy Laliberte.

When the race restarted, Tarlton continued to backpedal as he fell back to fifth place. A serious fire for Orval Zane Burke brought out the red flag on lap eight. As the #OB1 car came to a stop in turn two, Burke emerged from the car engulfed in flames. Fire crews quickly put the fire out and Burke walked away with reported second degree burns.

Tarlton got past Sanders on the restart for fourth and Day began to apply pressure on Golobic for fifth. The race stayed green through lapped traffic up to lap 23 when Rico Abreu tangled with the lapped car of Kurt Nelson in turn three. Abreu, who was running second, and Nelson were both able to continue on but the stoppage ended up marking the “halfway” break for the race.

After a 15 minute break for crews to work on their cars, the race resumed with 27 laps remaining. On the restart, Golobic and Scotts Valley’s Evan Suggs engaged in a back-and-forth battle for sixth while Larson drove away from second place Tim Kaeding.

Art McCarthy spun to a stop to draw the next caution and on the restart Kaeding began to challenge Larson for the lead. The top-three cars of Larson, Kaeding, and Tarlton closed up in lapped traffic by lap 36.

The exciting battle for the lead continued until lap 41 when all three were eliminated in a surprising crash in turn three. Larson slowed in lapped traffic while Kaeding drove in deep, resulting in a hard collision that collected Tarlton. Nick Ringo, Jr. ended up on his lid in the ensuing accident.

Larson, Kaeding, and Tarlton all restarted the race at the rear with young Justin Sanders now leading over Day and Suggs. 1999 Johnny Key winner Eric Rossi flipped on lap 42 but was uninjured. Day and Sanders raced side-by-side with Day taking the lead by a nose down the backstretch before the caution flew again on lap 44.

Day finally seized the lead on the restart, sweeping by Sanders on the outside to officially lead lap 46. Day continued to lead all the way to the double checkered flags with Sanders finishing second. Golobic passed Suggs to take third and Bud Kaeding fifth.

2010 USAC National Drivers Champion Bryan Clauson won the $200 DDNi Hard Charger award, driving from 18th to sixth in his first career winged start. Abreu drove back to seventh while Eric Humphries, Jason Statler, and Tim Kaeding rounded out the top-ten. Incoming points leader Tarlton finished 11th.

A pair of 12 lap b-main events set the 22 car field for the feature, with the b-mains won by Suggs and Laliberte. Qualfying for the 24 cars that had to race their way into the feature was led by Eric Humphries at 11.699 for the Ray Scheidt’s Electric Fast Time Award.

Two-time Johnny Key Classic winner Brent Kaeding had a serious accident in qualifying, hitting the wall in turn one at nearly full throttle. Kaeding eventually walked into the ambulance after a few tense moments but was transported to the hospital for observation with undisclosed injuries.

Day leads the Ocean Sprints presented by Taco Bravo standings by eight points over Tarlton with three events to go. The series continues September 23 against the California Sprint Car Civil War Series.

For more information on the Ocean Sprint Cars presented by Taco Bravo log onto http://www.oceansprints.com and for more on the Ocean Speedway visit http://www.oceanspeedway.com




 

8-26-11 Hutchison Picks Up Top Five to Continue As Top Roseville Rookie
All American Speedway

16 year-old NASCAR Whelen All-American Series rookie Dylan Hutchison picked up a fifth place finish in a wild 75 lap feature on Saturday night at All American Speedway. With the fifth place effort, Hutchison fell to fifth in the points standings but staying within striking distance of third.

Before a packed house for Fan Appreciation Night, Hutchison missed qualifying for the trophy dash by just .025 seconds, qualifying fifth with a 13.946 second lap. The Fan Appreciation Night activities included an hour long autograph session, where Hutchison met with the fans and signed his Race Media Group-designed driver cards.

By the time the Late Model feature started darkness had enveloped the one-third asphalt oval outside Sacramento and the track took on different conditions from qualifying. A nine car invert placed Hutchison fifth on the starting grid.

A wild start saw Hutchison make minor contact with another competitor but continue on unscathed. Hutchison was passed by points leader Matt Scott in the scramble, but he was able to hold down the fifth spot for the next 11 laps.

Hutchison chased down Juan Pitta and took over fourth on lap 12. Hutchison went on to defend fourth from former track champions Eric Schmidt and Jason Romero before loosing the position from Romero on lap 30.

Schmidt got past Hutchison for fifth just a few laps later, but the race was only halfway over. Schmidt had mechanical problems on lap 52 that allowed Hutchison to reassume fifth place.

The lights went out in turn four to bring out a red flag but eventually the drivers agreed to continue racing despite the lights still being out. Hutchison continued his strong effort battling back-and-forth with Pitta for the fourth spot. After briefly taking fourth on lap 65, Hutchison settled for fifth at the finish.

The fifth place finish marks the rookie’s eighth top-five run and he is just 18 points out of third place with four races left in the season. Hutchison’s next NASCAR points race is slated for September 3 with a 100 lap event on tap. The 2009 WSRA champion is tentatively slated to make his Airport Auto Brokers Late Model Series debut this weekend at Roseville racing in a 75 lap event for the touring series.

Race fans can learn more about Dylan Hutchison Racing at www.dylanhutchison.com or by visiting the team on Facebook at keywords “Dylan Hutchison Racing”.

Dylan Hutchison Racing thanks sponsors: Johnnie Walker Performance Center, Karp Capital Management, Rex Hutchison Racing Engines, All Valley Tow & Transport, GM Construction & Developers, Allen’s Cabinet & Fixtures, PJ’s Auto Body, Done by Don, JW Sweet Rides, Metal Jeans, Amsoil, Aero Wheels, Eibach Springs, and Race Media Group.




 

8-25-11 Over $7000 to Win Vendor's Cup At Ventura Saturday
Source Lance Jennings
Ventura Racing Association

 The 360 Sprint Cars of the Ventura Racing Association will return to action after a month break this Saturday for one of the most anticipated dates on the schedule. The "Vendor's Cup" will showcase a special 40-lap main event at Jim Naylor's Ventura Raceway. Joining the action packed card will be the VRA Midgets, Ford Focus and Junior Focus Midgets, IMCA Modifieds and Go Karts. The Pit Gate will open at noon, Front Gates will open at 3:00pm with Racing at "The Best Little Dirt Track In America" to begin at 5:30pm.

The "Vendor's Cup" currently has a winner's share of $7,150 with potential to grow as officials work to increase the purse. Interested companies or parties that wish to support the event can contact Julianne at Ventura Raceway at (805) 985-5433. Drivers competing in the race must be members with the Ventura Racing Association and all cars must meet VRA tech rules, including the required 180 degree mufflers.

Heading into Saturday's action, Greg Taylor of Ventura leads the championship standings with a 325 point lead over the competition. Piloting the #7 Clark Engineering Construction / Westco International Consulting Inc. special, Taylor finished second on July 23rd after starting eighth. To date, the former track champion has two feature wins, seven heat race victories, two hard charger awards, eleven top-10 finishes, and eighty-seven feature laps led to his credit. Greg will have his sights set on the big winner's paycheck on Saturday.

Camarillo's Josh Ford is second in the point chase. On July 23rd, the driver of the #73 King Racing Products / A&A Precision Machining entry scored eighth in the 30-lap feature. As the writing goes to press, the former USAC National Sprint Car Rookie of the Year has four heat race victories, one hard charger award, eleven top-10 finishes, and six feature laps led in the 2011 campaign. Ford will be looking to break through on Saturday with his first win of the season.

Sitting third in the point standings is Steve Conrad of Quartz Hill. Piloting the #56 Roy Miller Freightlines / SC Grafix machine, the veteran driver led all 30-laps on July 23rd to claim his second feature victory of the year. In the 2011 campaign, the former USAC TQ Midget graduate has one heat race victory, three hard charger awards, eleven top-10 finishes, and forty-eight feature laps led. This Saturday night, Conrad will be in the mix for another Ventura win.

Camarillo's Brian Camarillo has come on strong over the last few races to earn fourth in points. Driving the #22 Agromin Soil / Waste Management special, Camarillo finished ninth on July 23rd. The young driver has one feature win, six heat race victories, one semi-main win, eight top-10 finishes, and has led 30 feature laps led to his credit. Brian will be looking to add another Ventura feature win to his resume.

Don Gansen of Rialto is fifth in the standings. Piloting the Gansen Motorsports #7G Sprinter, Don took sixth on July 23rd. To date, the California Lightning Sprint Car graduate has one feature win, two heat race victories, one hard charger award, and has led thirty-three feature laps led on the year. Look for Gansen to challenge for the Ventura 30-lap feature victory.

Among the other top contenders expected to be in action are Ojai's Derek Buckley, Camarillo's Brent Camarillo, Jimmy Crawford of Newbury Park, Ventura's Cory Kruseman, Norwalk's Brandon Thomson, Ojai's Troy Rutherford, Santa Clarita's Clark Templeman III, and many more.

As an added bonus for race fans, "The Kruser" Cory Kruseman will have his 2-seat Sprint Car on hand. A drawing will be held and the lucky fans will have the ride of their life. To participate, winners must be 16 years of age and in good health. Soft laced shoes are needed and tennis shoes preferred. Any winner under the age of 18 must have a parent in attendance to sign a parental waiver release due to insurance restrictions.

Ventura Raceway is located on the Ventura County Fairgrounds at 10 West Harbor Blvd. in Ventura, California. Adult tickets are $14, Senior, Military, and Student tickets (ID Required) are $11, while Children’s tickets (12 and under) are FREE. For more event information, please visit www.venturaraceway.com or call (805) 985-5433.

To catch all of the action of the VRA Sprint Car Series and Ventura Raceway, Mike Truex's Loudpedal Productions has DVD videos available for purchase. For more information, call (805) 407-7229 or visit www.loudpedalvideo.com. In addition, Ventura Raceway offers a live feed of every event at www.venturaraceway.com/live.html. The live feed is scheduled to begin at 5:00pm PST.

 

8-25-11 The SRL Spears Southwest Tour Came to Town and Stole the Hearts of the 1500 Fans in the Stands on Jackson Rancheria Night
Source Dave Holman
Stockton 99 Speedway

On Saturday, August 20th, Jackson Rancheria Proudly Presented the SRL Spears Southwest Tour Series Late Models in 135 laps of high-powered, high-talented, super-delicious racing action. Also on the race card for this fantastic Event were the Legends of the Pacific, Pro-4 Modifieds and the NCMA Sprint Cars. The 1500 fans in the stands all couldn’t be wrong about how to seek out and find great entertainment to occupy their Saturday Nights. And, there was no doubt, they came, in droves, to the right venue at the right time. The racing was superb on this beautiful summer night and from all accounts, everyone left with their hearts drenched in undeniable excitement.

Twin #1 in the Legends of the Pacific got the show started with a bit of a twist. Five hundred dollars was put up to challenge any driver to start from the back and win both Twins. Needless to say, Tracy’s Gentleman Jeremy Wood (22) happily accepted and drove his hotrod through the field from P18 on the starting grid all the way through to the checkers for the amazing Victory.

This one got up to speed with Tracy’s Cody Berger (63) and San Ramon’s Jessica Walker (21) sharing front row honors and bringing the twenty car field around to greet the green. With that certain green flag flying high in the evening sky, Walker stuck her very talented right foot to the floor and beat the pack down into turn one for the early lead. Unfortunately, no sooner had the race begun to take shape, than did it come to an abrupt halt on lap 3, when Coto De Caza’s Austin Reed (14) spun high off turn two collecting two other racers along the way, and also collecting first a yellow, then a red. After a brief discussion, it was determined that Luis Tyrrell (74M) of Brisbane played a very special part in the altercation and was sent directly to his new location at the end of the longest line. On the lap 3 restart, Walker assumed her leading role out front in the clean summer air, where she held steady, despite the fact that Wood was on his way to her rear bumper, until lap 10, when there was simply too much Wood gnawing on the entirety of the #21 car and Walker had no choice but to give up that pristine vista-view in the unfettered air at P1. Once there, Wood left little doubt as to the outcome when he began to step away from his nearest pursuers, all the way through, to finish nearly a full straightaway ahead of second. “There were always people I looked up to coming up in racing who gave me a tremendous amount of advice to become the race car driver that I’ve become today,” said the always gracious Wood, then added, “If this little squirt (Czub) has learned anything from me, I still don’t think I deserve the credit because this kid has natural talent.” And speaking of second, Superstar Robbie Czub (05) of Rocklin, starting from P17 on the grid, bobbed and weaved his way through the field, in convincing manner, and put his #05 Ford Coupe on the podium, one back of the leader. Napa’s James Bickford (25B), not to be outdone, ran a masterfully impressive race of his own onto the podium in third. After winning her first race last time at the Speedway, and after leading this one early, Walker fell off the pace, but only slightly, to finish up in fourth, while son of the Legendary SRL Star M.K. Kanke, Cale Kanke (33K) of Frazier Park, filled the number five spot quite effectively.

In the Pro-4 Modifieds, Cobb’s Chris Straka (34) grabbed the lead early on and never looked back as he drove off to the checkers in an extraordinary command performance.

Nick King (3) of Windsor nabbed the pole in this one with Kevin Barba (90), also of Windsor, already nibbling chips of paint from King’s right side door panel at the drop of the green. Barba jumped out early only to be displaced on lap 3 by the hard charge of Neo Nuno (54), yet another driver from Windsor. And, no sooner had Nuno wrestled the lead away, than did he have it wrestled away in a like manner on lap 5, when Chris Straka vaulted to the front of the field where he would bask in the breathable air and enjoy the beautiful night lights as he rode it out to the land of enchantment and reaped the winner’s share of the spoils in a very satisfying manner. “I would like to thank all my sponsors and all the people who make it possible for us to be out here,” Straka said. Greg VanCleave (13) of Santa Rosa, steady throughout the thirty laps, brought her home in a solid second. Marty Lewis (07), also of Santa Rosa, followed the #13 to the finish line and onto the podium in third. Barba, after showing his strength early, slipped, if only slightly, but still managed a fourth place run with Santa Rosa’s Kurt Lewis (87), starting deep in the field, rounding out the top five.

The NCMA Sprints are always a welcome sight at the Speedway because of the speed they produce. On this night, there would be a surprise winner who came in the form of Clovis’s Justin Kawahata (15).

Concord’s Burt Silverling (77) and Sacramento’s David Dias (24) were strapped in tight to the front row to get this high-powered, fast-paced race under green flag conditions. And so it went, with the green waving high above the speedy asphalt surface, Silverling grabbed the holeshot going off into turn one to capture the early point. However, that lead was quickly extinguished when, on lap 4, Napa’s David Goodwill (3), as he has on several occasions this year, jetted out to that unsettled, yet much sought after, prime real estate in front of the field. Unfortunately, on lap 13, coming off turn four, Denny Burrell (88) of Ripon and Goodwill made contact which sent both cars spinning down the frontstretch, followed closely by the yellow flag. And, once again, both drivers were asked to take up residence at the tail end of the lineup, which handed the lead over to Justin Kawahata, who gladly accepted his new-found standing as he made the best of the opportunity by jumping out on the restart and driving off to the Glory Land for his first-ever win at Stockton. Kawahata’s dash to the cash, however, was not as smooth as he probably would have wished, because Goodwill quickly made his way to the rear bumper of the #15 and pulled out all his ample tricks from the proverbial bag to get around the leader, but Kawahata did a magnificent job holding off the intense gnawing applied to the back of his race car. Of course, Goodwill had to settle for what was most likely a disappointing second, while Burrell brought her back after the earlier altercation to finish on the podium in third. Thomas Leiby (2) of Copperopolis, starting shotgun on the field, ran a marvelous race of his own in finishing fourth, while Silverling slipped back a bit, but still managed a top five finish.

In the Legends of the Pacific Twin #2, the same rules applied as in the first. The biggest difference this time around would be Rocklin’s Robbie Czub (05) would bring home the Lion’s share of the spoils.

This one rolled out of the blocks with cousins from that famous (or infamous) Clement Clan of Stockton sharing rights to the fresh air up front: that would be Fred in the #58 at pole position and Keith in the #8, high and tight to the right. With the green flag breaking the silence of the night sky, Fred C. would have the heavier foot as he beat the field down into turn one for the very early lead only to be overtaken on lap 3 by Austin Reed (14) of Coto De Caza who was able to breathe in that specialized air out front until lap 8 when three cars tangled high between three and four, which brought with it the first yellow of the race. On the restart, Robbie Czub, after quickly working his way through the pack, jumped out to lay claim to that much-coveted territory where the Racing Gods of P1 dwell. Over the next twelve circuits, Czub would prove why he is considered one of the best in this Series as he turned back every challenge with some absolutely great driving on his part, until lap 20 when winner of the first Twin, Jeremy Wood (22) had made his way up to the tail pipe of Czub, and then slid by for the lead. Unfortunately for Wood, another yellow reared its ugly head on lap 25, and by no choice of his own, Wood had to start at P1, which gave Czub the outside momentum and, without any doubt, Czub took the opportunity to beat the field off turn two for the lead where he would ride it out for the certain Victory. And in doing so, squashed any chance Wood had for the posted bonus on the night. “I know it’s a bummer for Jeremy not winning the $500 bonus money,” said the very polite, young Czub, “But I had to go for the win.” Of course, Wood held on to finish a close second in what had to be a fantastic night for him. Tony Mangini (7) of Benicia held his course throughout the thirty-five laps and it paid-off for him with a podium finish in third. Luis Tyrrell (74M) of Brisbane ran a steady race of his own in finishing fourth, while Frazier Park’s Cale Kanke (33) came home with his second fifth place finish of the Event.

In the SPEARS SRL Southwest Tour/Jackson Rancheria 135, it may well be he didn’t have the best car, but his car had the best driver on this night when Prunedale’s Jim Pettit II (03) drove his Golden Gate Petroleum Chevrolet patiently from P9 on the starting grid to the point, late in the race, to capture his first win of the year.

Brennan Newberry (29) of Bakersfield inherited the pole, due to a seven invert, with Frazier Park’s M.K. Kanke (33) flanking him to the right to get this much-anticipated battle royal underway. Coming off turn four with the green flag waving, the first lap lead wouldn’t have an impact on what was coming between turns three and four when Jon Wood (36) of Stuart, Virginia went spinning into the wall, which brought with it an immediate yellow and put Wood’s night to an abrupt end. On the lap 3 restart, Newberry assumed his position at the head of the field where he held tight over the next twenty-four laps until lap 25 when Kanke made a wicked move into turn three and rode it all the way through, coming out the other side with the extremely impressive lead. From that point, Kanke seemed to have the situation well in-hand as he appeared irreproachable, despite the fact Eric Holmes (18) of Escalon had been nibbling away at the asphalt that separated the two leaders until lap 79 when coming off turn four, a lapped car bounced off the wall and directly into the leader, which sent Kanke spinning down the frontstretch followed closely by the yellow flag and a new leader. On the lap 82 restart, Holmes jumped out quickly and held on through lap 88 when, on a similar restart, Manteca’s Ross Strmiska (90) nudged Holmes a bit going off into turn three, which enabled the young Manteca driver to dip low and cross beneath the flagstand in full control of that prime real estate out front. Strmiska showed great strength over the next fifteen laps as he held off all challenges, but unfortunately for Strmiska, Holmes had worked his way back to the spoiler of the #90 car and on lap 104, Holmes returned the favor, making contact with the leader in turn two and sending him up the track, which sent the sixth yellow waving against the summer breeze. On the lap 107 restart, Jim Pettit II, after patiently taking care of his own race, and after watching leader after leader being dismissed by drivers with different agendas, gladly accepted his new-found wealth out in the rarified air in front of the pack. And, despite a late charge by a persistent Keith Spangler (37) of Chatsworth, Pettit’s determination was obvious to everyone in attendance as he simply refused to settle for second on this night and took it to the house for his first win of the year in the Series. “We didn’t have the best car. We’ve been struggling all weekend, but that’s short-track racing,” said Pettit, “This is the first race we’ve won since my mom’s passing, so it’s a very emotional race for me.” Spangler, despite the heavy pressure he applied to the leader’s rear bumper, had to settle for a close second. Kanke, after the earlier mishap, drove back up to the podium in third. Derek Thorn (26) of Bakersfield, fast-qualifier earlier in the day, worked his way up from the back, twice, to finish fourth, while Strmiska, after leading late-race laps, would have to settle for fifth. The race was plagued by a total of ten caution periods, a single red, and was ran in a total time of 1:06:26.271.

Next Saturday, August 27th, Stockton 99 Speedway goes dark for a week, only to return in September with the final three dates for the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series to determine who the Champions will be in each Division this Season.

The New Stockton 99 Speedway is located at 4105 N. Wilson Way, ¼-mile west of Highway 99. For more information on tickets and times, please contact the Speedway Office at (209)466-9999 or visit their Website at www.stockton99.com.

The New Stockton 99 Speedway is sponsored by Jackson Rancheria Casino Hotel, California Welding Supply, Budweiser, Alamo Alarm and Stockton Hampton Inn and Suites and Lodi Holiday Express.



 

8-24-11 Highly Anticipated 51st johnny Key Classic This Saturday At Ocean
Source Steven Blakesley
Ocean Speedway

In the midst of a hotly contested battle for the 2011 Ocean Sprints presented by Taco Bravo championship, the series favorites and a host of outside contenders will battle it out for the $5,000 to win Johnny Key Classic this Saturday night at Ocean Speedway. The highly anticipated event will bring together open-wheel racing’s best to honor the late Johnny Key in the 51st running of the classic.

2011 series points leader Tommy Tarlton comes into the Key with back-to-back wins at Ocean Speedway and appears poised for his second classic victory. The driver of the #21 Corporate American Lending mount will busy with an all-star lineup however.

Six drivers have already made their way into the race through the four qualifying races and the two points provisionals. Tarlton, 2010 Johnny Key Classic winner Tim Kaeding, 2010 King of California Kyle Larson, 1998 Johnny Key Classic winner Ronnie Day, rookie sensation Rico Abreu, and fourth place in Ocean points Justin Sanders of Prunedale are all locked into the show.

Kaeding won the first two qualifying races including the event against the California Sprint Car Civil War on July 9th where Larson finished second to lock himself in. Larson has been busy winning races in the USAC National Midgets this year after winning the 2010 King of California and finishing second in the Ocean Sprints points. Larson recently won with the wing on at Yreka, California and the 19 year-old is seeking his first Key victory.

18 year-old Abreu has been one of the highlights of the 2011 season as he is third in the Ocean Sprints standings, qualifying for the Key with a second place finish behind Tarlton last Friday night. Abreu drives the #89 Abreu Vineyards / Stadelhofer Construction entry out of the Kaeding Performance shop.

Second in points Day earned one of the two positions in the Key for top points earning cars. Day has only had a pair of finishes outside of fourth this season but both have come during Johnny Key Classic qualifiers. Day’s string of bad luck allowed Tarlton to take a narrow lead in the points but a Johnny Key Classic win for Day could turn the championship battle on its head.

Some extremely high-profile drivers will be racing their way into the 50 lap feature on Saturday, among them Fremont gasser Shane Golobic. Golobic narrowly missed making the field in last week’s qualifier but he will have a good teammate in the Joe Vonschriltz stable. Former Carmichael, CA resident Bryan Clauson, 2010 USAC National Drivers Champion and 2011 Firestone Indy Lights pole sitter, will make his first ever winged sprint car start on Saturday night in a car numbered #121 ½.

Other drivers racing their way in will be former Key winners Brent Kaeding, Craig Smith, Jason Statler, and Eric Rossi. New track record holder Evan Suggs of Scotts Valley will also have to race his way to the Key. Salinas’ Tommy Laliberte, Gilroy’s Kurt Nelson, San Jose’s Ryan Rusconi, San Jose’s Nick Green, San Francisco’s Nick Rescino, Jr., Salinas’ Orval Zane Burke, Salinas’ Jeremy Chisum, and Clovis’ Koen Shaw are among Ocean Speedway regulars expected on Saturday night.

The format for Saturday’s events will not include heat races. Instead drivers not locked into the Key will get hot laps and qualifying to set the starting orders for the b-mains. No more than 12 cars will start each b-main and all told the b-mains will transfer a total of 16 cars to join the six already qualified.

Each b-main event will invert the top-four as usual for Ocean Sprints heat races and the b-mains will be 20 laps. Drivers who make the Key through their b-main will get their qualifying times back and start behind the qualified six.

The six qualified cars will hot lap then pill draw for positions in a six lap dash. The finishing order of the dash for cash will make up the starting line-up for the feature.

Purse for the Johnny Key Classic A-main will be $5,000 to win and $300 to start. There will also be lap money awarded $25 going to first, $15 to second and $10 to third during the sponsored laps.

The Johnny Key Classic will be a 50 lap feature in two 25 lap segments. During the break, teams will be allowed to refuel, change tires, and make adjustments before the race resumes.

Laps are still for sale for the Johnny Key Classic with interested parties urged to contact samantha@oceanspeedway.com Laps are $50 each to be paid out to the top-three cars each lap.

The Johnny Key Classic this Saturday night also includes racing for the Wingless Sprints and 600 Micros along with the Okie Bowl Hardtops. Adult tickets are $18 with seniors 65+ $16 and kids ages 6-12 are $13. The family pass for two adults and two children is value priced at just $55. Please note special Saturday night times with qualifying at approx. 5 p.m. and racing to follow. Fan gates will open at 3:30 p.m.

For more information on the Ocean Sprint Cars presented by Taco Bravo log onto http://www.oceansprints.com and for more on the Ocean Speedway visit http://www.oceanspeedway.com
 

8-24-11 USAC Western Classic Sprints Head to Irwindale
Source Steven Blakesley
USAC Western Sprints

A pair of tight points battles will highlight this weekend’s USAC Western Classic Racing Series / USAC Amsoil Western Sprint Car Series action at TOYOTA Speedway at Irwindale. A strong field of cars from throughout the West Coast will invade the state-of-the-art half-mile oval with some of the highest speeds fans will see all season.

Points for both the USAC Western Classic Racing Series and USAC Amsoil Western Sprint Car Series will be awarded during the night’s activities, with Hunt hoping to defend his lead in both.

21 year-old Geoff Ensign of Sebastopol, CA has made the 2011 inaugural USAC Western Classic Racing Series campaign into a classic duel between the rookie driver and veteran six-time USAC champion Tony Hunt of Lincoln, CA. Hunt, who has seen all of his career wins on pavement, has been forced to adapt to the dirt element of the new series while conversely Ensign has had to acclimate himself with the pavement.

The championship has closed to just eight points after Ensign picked up his first career USAC win in the “Mike McCreary Classic” at Placerville Speedway. Fair Oaks’ Shauna Hogg and Alamo’s Scott Pierovich, who won Roseville earlier this year, are also contenders in the championship following strong runs on the dirt at Chico and Placerville. Hogg won heat races in both nights of the action in the Richard Hogg-owned #5 car.

Ensign will be making his first ever start at TOYOTA Speedway while Hunt recently finished second in the Turkey Night Grand Prix last year in his #56 Metal Works entry.

Also expected in action on Saturday night is Ensign’s Ted Finkenbinder Motorsports teammate Tim Barber of San Francisco who is fifth in the USAC Western Classic Racing Series standings.

In the USAC Western Sprint Car Series, Hunt leads Fresno’s Audra Sasselli by just two points. Hunt has picked up a pair of wins this season at Madera Speedway, while Ensign won his first career USAC feature on the dirt at Placerville on August 6.

18 year-old rookie Cody Gerhardt runs third in the USAC Western Sprint Car Series with a pair of wins in July ahead of Western Speed teammate Tim Skoglund and 18 year-old Kaplan-Gennuso Racing’s Luis Ramos III to round out the top-five.

Idaho’s Mike Murgoitio has a pair of USAC Western Sprint Car wins this year and will be in action along with USAC Rocky Mountain points leader Jim Waters.

This weekend’s race at TOYOTA Speedway will set-up a busy three race dirt swing for the Classic series, with the prestigious Louie Vermeil Classic at Calistoga on Labor Day weekend and the Tiner Family Classic during the Gold Cup at Chico up next on the schedule.

Competitors will get to business on Friday night with an open practice session before a full day of practice and qualifying on Saturday. Racing is slated to begin at 7 p.m. on Saturday night. Race fans can find more information, schedules, and tickets at www.toyotaspeedwayatirwindale.com

More information on the USAC Western Classic Racing Series is available on Facebook at keywords “USAC Western Classic Racing Series”. The United States Auto Club is online at www.usacracing.com

The USAC Western Classic Racing Series is brought to you by: Amsoil, Hoosier Tires West, and Kaeding Performance.

 

8-23-11 Free Hotel Room Saturday At Santa Maria For Out of State Sprint Car Teams
Source Lance Jennings
USAC West COast 360 Sprints

Promoter Chris Kearns has announced an offer for a free hotel room to any out of state Sprint Car teams that compete with the USAC West Coast 360s this Saturday at Santa Maria Speedway. In addition, the team's entry fee will be covered at the event. For more information, contact Chris Kearns at chrisk.usa@gmail.com.

Cars must meet current USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Series specifications and comply with local muffler and tire rules. Raceceivers are required and more technical/series information can be found at www.westcoastsprintcars.com.

Twin brothers Richard and Jace VanderWeerd of Visalia sit atop the standings, with Richard holding a sixty-two point lead. Both drivers have scored main event wins in the 2011 campaign with Richard taking the make-up feature at Hanford on July 16th and Jace was victorious at Santa Maria on April 9th. Hollister's Ryan Bernal has won the last two features with victories at Santa Maria on July 30th and Hanford last Saturday night. "Wide Open" Wes Gutierrez of San Martin will be looking for his first win of the year and "Hollywood" Danny Faria Jr. of Tipton won Hanford's Jim Evett Memorial on July 16th.

3-Time USAC/CRA Champion Mike Spencer of Temecula will team with veteran Southern California car owner Mark Priestley to make their first career start with the young series.

In addition to the USAC West Coast 360 Sprints, Saturday's card will also feature the Toste Construction Mini Stocks, California Lightning Sprints, and American/Enduro Stocks. The Front Gates will open at 4:00pm, Time Trials will start at 5:00pm, with Racing at "The West Coast's Best Short Track" to begin at 6:00pm.

Santa Maria Speedway is located 1/4-mile north of the 101/166 interchange at 1900 Hutton Road in Nipomo, California. Adult tickets are $16, Senior, Military, and Student tickets (13-17) are $14, Kids tickets (6-12) are $6, and Children’s tickets (5 and under) are FREE. For more event information, visit the track’s website at www.racesantamariaspeedway.com or call (805) 922-2232.

The USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Car Series would like to thank Southwest Contractors, Hoosier Tire, Amsoil, BR Motorsports, ButlerBuilt, Competition Suspension Inc., Cory Kruseman's Sprint Car & Midget Driving School, Crow Enterprizes, DJ Safety, Extreme Mufflers, Hilborn Fuel Injection, Hinchman-Indy Racing Uniforms, Integra Shocks, Kaeding Performance, Keizer Wheels, King Racing Products, Port City Racing, Rod End Supply, Saferacer.com, Saldana Racing Products, and Sander Engineering for their support.

For more information on the USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Car Series, visit www.westcoastsprintcars.com, www.usacracing.com, www.racesantamariaspeedway.com, or follow the series on facebook.


 

8-23-11 Scribner Breaks Up Scott /Romero Run, Jinkerson Extends Points Lead at All American Speedway
Source RMG Race Media Group
All American Speedway

A successful Fan Appreciation Night brought full stands and an evening of exciting racing action to All American Speedway by the four NASCAR divisions with Late Models, Modifieds, Street Stocks and Bombers. The popular tradition of Fan Night was the on-track autograph meet and greet sessions where fans get to interact with racers and the crews as well as the opportunity to get up close to a race car. Track moms were entered in to a chance to win California Capital Airshow tickets for a football toss in the back of the Toyota Tundra Pace Truck, put on by Late Model driver Chris Scribner. DJ Charlee Simons from 101.9 the Wolf came out with his crew to experience dropping of the green flag for the main events.

First up on the racing agenda was the Street Stock division fielding 15 cars. Making a return to the track was the No. 50 Chris Lambert. No. 23 Richard Poppert Jr., put his No.23 Coors Light machine on top of the charts in qualifying posting fastest time of 15.035 seconds. Followed by No. 08 Mickey Owens, No. 98 Byron Gonzales, No. 50 Chris Lambert and No. 68 Joe Dahl the fast five. No heat races took place for the Street Stock division as they headed right into the four lap trophy dash. The top four qualifiers made it to the trophy dash to put on a quick battle for the fans and Byron Gonzales captured his first 2011 Street Stock trophy dash victory. Following the dash was the 35 lap main event with a field invert of nine handing No. 19 Dale Didoha to lead the field to the green flag. On lap two, No.2 Mel Wilson took the lead from Didoha to lead for 16 laps. The invert took Richard Poppert Jr. 17 laps to run to the front and make an outside pass on Wilson for the lead. On lap 29, Byron Gonzales, Mel Wilson and Chris Lambert battling for the third position as Gonzales made an outside pass on Wilson, Lambert got into Gonzales sending the No.98 car spinning. Rough driving for Lambert sent him to the rear of the field on the restart with only six laps remaining. On the restart, both Poppert and Mickey Owens led the field by battling side by side till the white flag lap. Richard Poppert Jr. took the Street Stock victory over Mickey Owens, Mel Wilson, Joe Dahl and Lonnie Leonard the final five.

Next up was the 14-car field Modified division and Canadian resident No.4 Steve Cote, Allstar Performance modified, posted fastest lap in qualifying with a time of 14.201 seconds along with No. 5 Jason Bamberg, No. 29 Dan Jinkerson, No.68 Cody Thompson and No.43 Nick Lyons the fast five. No heat races were scheduled for the Modified division as the top four qualifiers headed into the trophy dash and division leader Dan Jinkerson took home the trophy dash win. The main event’s nine car invert put No. 8 Andy Field in charge of leading the pack to the green flag. Andy Field took the advantage of starting pole by leading the 14 car field for 15 laps. On lap seven, No. 21 Bobby Runyan and No. 26 Mindy McCord got together in turn one as McCord spun, resulting in a yellow. Both drivers would have to start at the rear of the pack and work their way through the field. On lap 15, Dan Jinkerson stole the lead away from Andy Field. Clean racing for the last 25 laps and points leader Jinkerson ran away with another Modified victory under his belt followed by Cody Thompson, Andy Field, Nick Lyons and Jason Bamberg the top five. This race marks Cody Thompson’s second consecutive second place finish this year as well as his career highest Modified finish.

Third on the agenda was the highly competitive NASCAR Late Models fielding 12 cars with Eric Schmidt, Travis Milburn and Jamie Krizysik making their return to the speedway for the fan packed night. No. 8 Jason Romero blasted his machine to the top of the charts in qualifying with a fast time of 13.797 seconds followed by No. 35 Matt Scott, No. 05 Eric Schmidt, No. 22 Brian Keck and No. 88 Dylan Hutchison the fast five. The top four fast drivers in qualifying competed in the trophy dash and Eric Schmidt took home the dash win. In the 75 lap main event, the nine car invert put the No. 5 Chris Scribner in charge of leading the field waiting for Charlee Simons from 101.9 the Wolf to drop the green flag. Chris Scribner jumped out to an early lead and on lap one, in turn two, Matt Scott made it three wide in between Dylan Hutchison and Brian Keck for the fourth position. As the top three drivers Scribner, Krizysik and Scott pulled away from the field the battle for fourth with Hutchison, Schmidt, Romero and Pitta got antsy for positions swapping rubber. By lap 26, Scribner had made ground on Krizysik leaving Krizysik and Scott battling for the second spot. On lap 46, Matt Scott took the lead sending Scribner to battle for the second position with Romero. On lap 58, the lights in turn four went out causing the field to stop on a red flag thus allowing the gap to be closed for Romero and Scott. AAS officials quickly went to investigate the reason of why the light tower went out and asked all drivers on track if it was safe to continue. All drivers agreed that it was safe and the race would continue. Romero had to restart in the back as his crew made an illegal adjustment under the red flag on track thus allowing Scott and Scribner to put on a show for the restart with 19 laps to go. Scott and Scribner went side by side for the first few laps and Scribner on the outside pulled more horsepower over Scott out of turn four for regaining the lead on lap 58. Jamie Krzysik and Juan Pitta battled for the third position with Jason Romero jumping in to make it three wide and taking third. As laps wound down Scribner pulled out to a big lead from Scott and captured his first career Late Model victory and the only Late Model driver to break the ongoing victory battle between Jason Romero and Matt Scott for 2011. Followed by Matt Scott, Jason Romero, Juan Pitta, and Dylan Hutchison the final five.

Last up on the schedule is the infamous Bomber division and No. 24 Cody Rickard turned the fastest lap around the speedway with a fast time of 15.853 seconds barely holding No. 52 Matt Camp in second by .003 seconds. Along with Erick Ray, Chris Paulson and Richard Perez the fast five. No heat races were scheduled for the division as the fast four drivers from qualifying headed into the trophy dash and Erick Ray captured the dash victory. The nine car invert has put No. 37 David Thompson in charge of leading the pack with a dark turn four. No. 63 Joe Rhodes took the early lead for the first six laps. As Rhodes and Chris Paulson pulled away from the field Richard Perez, David Thompson and No. 23 Eric Bocksberger battling for fourth making it three wide, and Perez got out front safe holding the fourth spot. Paulson made the pass on the outside of Rhodes for a great side by side battle on lap six, by lap seven Paulson was pulling out for the lead. On lap eight, No. 28 Eric McKinley got loose in turn four and spun almost collecting cars entering turn four but the track stayed green as McKinley got his car running. On lap 29, Cody Rickard made a inside pass on Richard Perez for third as the contact was made causing Rickard to drive up onto Perez’s door collecting Eric McKinnley as well as collecting Erick Ray. This wreck caused a red flag as the wreckage put lots of fluid on the track and with the tracks curfew nearing the race had to end handing the victory to Chris Paulson. Joe Rhodes, Matt Camp, Eric Bocksberger and Richard Perez the final five.

Weekly NASCAR Championship Points Race No. 15 will be taking a weekend off for the Airport Auto Brokers Late Model Series Next Saturday, August 27 and will return to All American Speedway Saturday, September 3rd featuring NASCAR Late Models 100, Modifieds 40, Street Stocks and Bombers 35. More information about All American Speedway, as well as driver interviews, can be found at www.AllAmericanSpeedway.com. The Placer County Fairgrounds administration office is open for advance ticket sales Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm at 800 All America City Blvd. Roseville, CA. 95678, or contact the office at (916) 786-2025.



 

8-23-11 Cote Gets Second Straight NASCAR Modified Pole At Roseville
Source RSWC PR
All American Speedway

20 year-old Steve Cote picked up his second consecutive fast-time in the NASCAR Modifieds at All American Speedway, setting a 14.201 second mark before finishing sixth in the 40 lap feature. The Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle driver maintains second in the points standings in his #4 Allstar Performance Modified.

Cote is in his first season racing for driver development program Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle, joining the team in late 2010 after the a strong performance in the Shoot-Out. The 2010 NASCAR Quebec Provisional champion has acclimated himself quickly to racing in the United States by running second in the points.

The pole gives Cote an average qualifying position of third since the eight consecutive race stretch began on July 2nd. In that span Cote has accumulated three wins, a pair of poles, and no finishes worse than seventh.

Saturday night looked like the night for Cote to get his fourth victory but a series of circumstances derailed him. Cote was set to start ninth in the main event after the invert and a lack of yellow flags saw the field spread out early.

Sparks began flying from Cote’s car under braking near lap ten and it was later determined that Cote had brake issues on his car. Cote ran strong, however, and was able to stay in tow with the lead pack before settling for a sixth place effort.

“Just like last week, a caution was what we needed to get our preferred result,” Team Manager Jason Houghtaling said. “Steve handled himself very well under these conditions and salvaged a nice points run after the great qualifying lap. We will reload and go for the win in two weeks!”

The NASCAR Modifieds have ended their eight consecutive races at All American Speedway and have just three nights of racing left to go starting September 3. But the September 10 race will have a major impact on the championship as two main events are scheduled. Cote finds himself just 42 points out of first and still in striking distance of the points lead.

Racing action on September 3 gets underway at 6 p.m. PST and can be followed live around the world on Cote’s website at www.stevecoteracing.com

Steve Cote Racing and Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle thanks partners: Allstar Performance, K&N Filters, Scribner Plastics, Sunoco Race Fuels and Star Racing Supply.

For more information on Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle, log on to www.winners-circle-racing.com


 

8-23-11 Cristiani Clinches Airport Auto Brokers Late Model championship
Source Steven Blakesley
Airport Auto Brokers Late Models

16 year-old Trevor Cristiani won the biggest race of his career by winning the Airport Auto Brokers Late Model Series feature at Ukiah Speedway on Saturday night to clinch the series championship with still two races left to go. Cristiani also grabbed fast-time honors for the second time in 2011.

“There are really not words to describe how happy I am to win a championship in my first full season of Late Models,” Cristiani said. “...I never thought I would clinch it in only 10 races.”

Cristiani has already accomplished much in his young career including 15 Outlaw Kart championships, scoring his first Modified win at age 14, and getting his first Late Model quick time at age 15. 2011 has seen Cristiani dominate the AABLM from the start beginning with three straight runner-up finishes.

Cristiani’s first win of the season came at Redwood Acres Raceway in June and he followed that up with a pole and second place finish at Ukiah.

In all, Cristiani has tallied up eight top-two finishes and a pair of fourth place efforts in the 10 races held so far. On Saturday night, Cristiani started eighth but immediately charged to fourth by lap three. He then took over third by lap 10 and was up to second on lap 12.

Cristiani took the lead on lap 18 but with still 57 laps to go he would need to run a smooth and consistent race to hold off the challengers.

A late caution set up a shootout between Cristiani and veteran Junior Roddy, but on the restart Cristiani rocketed away. Running his best lap of the race on lap 72, Cristiani distanced himself and took the checkered flag.

The championship allows Cristiani to focus on a return to Roseville’s All American Speedway this Saturday night. Cristiani nearly won the AABLM feature at Roseville in April, loosing the lead in a late race shootout after dominating much of the event.

All American Speedway was Cristiani’s second home track in 2010 as he raced full-time there for a driver development program. He has yet to win at the track he considers one of his favorites.

“This is my favorite track especially in a Late Model,” Cristiani said. “I felt like I had a car to win there last time and there is expected to be the best car count all year so I am looking forward to a great weekend!”

Trevor Cristiani Racing is already looking towards 2012 with an eye on competing in the SRL SPEARS Southwest Tour. Interested sponsors can contact steven@norcalmedia.com for more information.

Race fans can learn more about Trevor Cristiani Racing at www.trevorcristianiracing.com orr by visiting the team on Facebook at keywords “Cristiani Motorsports”.

Trevor Cristiani Racing thanks sponsors: Fast Lube Plus, S&S Sports Enterprises, Nitro Racing, Matt’s Custom Tree Care, Johnny Franklin Mufflers, Kutting Edge Auto Refinishing, First Choice Import Engines, and Blakesley Sports Media.

 

8-22-11 USAC/CRA Champion to Battle With USAC West COast 360s at Santa Maria
Source Lance Jennings
USAC West Coast 360s

When the USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Car Series invade Chris Kearns' Santa Maria Speedway this Saturday, they will have to contend with a surprise entry. 3-Time USAC/CRA Champion Mike Spencer of Temecula will team with veteran Southern California car owner Mark Priestley to make their first career start with the young series.

Driving the famed #50 "Little Red Sucker" owned by Ron Chaffin and wrenched by Bruce Bromme Jr., Spencer has won numerous features and is looking to make USAC history with his fourth straight crown. As this writing goes to press, Spencer holds a thirty-four point advantage over the competition and leads USAC/CRA with five main event wins, four fast time awards, and 114 feature laps led.

Priestley is a veteran of the West Coast 410 Sprint Car wars, winning SCRA, NWWC, and USAC/CRA main events with Mike English, Rip Williams, Jeremy Sherman, Troy Rutherford, Darren Hagen, Garrett Hansen, and Blake Miller. On June 11th, Spencer made his debut in the Priestley machine, scoring a fifth place finish in ASCS Canyon Sprint Car action at Peoria, Arizona's Canyon Speedway Park.

In addition to the USAC West Coast 360 Sprints, Saturday's card will also feature the Toste Construction Mini Stocks, California Lightning Sprints, and American/Enduro Stocks. The Front Gates will open at 4:00pm, Time Trials will start at 5:00pm, with Racing at "The West Coast's Best Short Track" to begin at 6:00pm.

Twin brothers Richard and Jace VanderWeerd of Visalia sit atop the standings, with Richard holding a sixty-two point lead. Both drivers have scored main event wins in the 2011 campaign with Richard taking the make-up feature at Hanford on July 16th and Jace was victorious at Santa Maria on April 9th. Hollister's Ryan Bernal has won the last two features with victories at Santa Maria on July 30th and Hanford last Saturday night. "Wide Open" Wes Gutierrez of San Martin will be looking for his first win of the year and "Hollywood" Danny Faria Jr. of Tipton won Hanford's Jim Evett Memorial on July 16th.

Santa Maria Speedway is located 1/4-mile north of the 101/166 interchange at 1900 Hutton Road in Nipomo, California. Adult tickets are $16, Senior, Military, and Student tickets (13-17) are $14, Kids tickets (6-12) are $6, and Children’s tickets (5 and under) are FREE. The Front Gates will open at 4:00pm, Time Trials will start at 5:00pm, with Racing at "The West Coast's Best Short Track" to begin at 6:00pm. For more event information, visit the track’s website at www.racesantamariaspeedway.com or call (805) 922-2232.

The USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Car Series would like to thank Southwest Contractors, Hoosier Tire, Amsoil, BR Motorsports, ButlerBuilt, Competition Suspension Inc., Cory Kruseman's Sprint Car & Midget Driving School, Crow Enterprizes, DJ Safety, Extreme Mufflers, Hilborn Fuel Injection, Hinchman-Indy Racing Uniforms, Integra Shocks, Kaeding Performance, Keizer Wheels, King Racing Products, Port City Racing, Rod End Supply, Saferacer.com, Saldana Racing Products, and Sander Engineering for their support.

For more information on the USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Car Series, visit www.westcoastsprintcars.com, www.usacracing.com, www.racesantamariaspeedway.com, or follow the series on facebook.






 

8-22-11 Santa Maria Showdown This Saturday For USAC West Coast 360s
Source Lance Jennings
USAC West Coast 360s

This Saturday night, August 27th, the USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Car Series will return to Chris Kearns' Santa Maria Speedway. The action packed card will also showcase the Toste Construction Mini Stocks, winged California Lightning Sprints, and American/Enduro Stocks. The Front Gates will open at 4:00pm, Time Trials will start at 5:00pm, with Racing at "The West Coast's Best Short Track" to begin at 6:00pm.

The event will mark the fourth of five scheduled races at the 1/3-mile facility. Jace VanderWeerd claimed the April 9th victory, while rain took away the June 4th show. Ryan Bernal earned his first career series triumph on July 30th and won again last weekend at Hanford. Bernal will be looking to tie T.J. Smith's series record of three consecutive victories on Saturday.

Twin brothers Richard and Jace VanderWeerd of Visalia continue to lead the way in the championship points. Driving the family owned #10 VanderWeerd Construction / Battery Worx Maxim, Richard holds a sixty-two point advantage over the field. Last Saturday night at Hanford, Richard rebounded from an early tangle to salvage a fifth place finish. To date, VanderWeerd has one feature win, three Sander Engineering Fast Time Awards, three heat race victories, nine top-10 finishes, and seventeen feature laps led to his credit. VanderWeerd will be looking to extend his lead with a Santa Maria victory.

Jace VanderWeerd took the family owned #88 VanderWeerd Construction / Battery Worx Maxim to third at Hanford's Giant Chevrolet Kings Speedway. Currently second in the point chase, last season's USAC/CRA Rookie of the Year has one feature win, one heat race victory, nine top-10 finishes, and fourteen main event laps led. VanderWeerd would like to add Saturday's win to his resume and close in on his brother.

The hottest driver on the USAC West Coast 360 circuit is Ryan Bernal of Hollister. Winning the last two features in Danny Olmstead's #11D S&S Automotive / Dorso's Automotive Maxim, Bernal is third in the standings, sixty-seven points behind Richard VanderWeerd. To date, the former Wingless Spec Sprint Champion has two heat race victories, seven top-10 finishes, and leads the series with 101 feature laps led. Ryan can tie series history with a 30-lap Santa Maria victory.

"Wide Open" Wes Gutierrez of San Martin is fourth in the point standings. Piloting the WG Motorsports' #007 ButlerBuilt / Competition Suspension Inc. DRC, Gutierrez was seventh at Hanford last Saturday night. In 2011, the young hard charger has four heat race victories and seven top-10 finishes to his credit. This Saturday, Wes will have his eyes set on his first victory of the year.

Tipton's "Hollywood" Danny Faria Jr. sits fifth in the championship points. Last Saturday, the driver of Junior Bowman's #2 Buster & Ziggy Enterprises / Kaeding Performance Bullet had a rough outing. Faria flipped in his heat race and scored sixteenth with an early exit in the main event. Danny won Hanford's Jim Evett Memorial on July 16th and has two Sander Engineering Fast Time Awards, three heat race victories, five top-10 finishes, and led thirty-two laps of main event competition. The veteran driver will be looking to rebound with a victory Saturday night.

Campbell's Bud Kaeding and Peter Murphy of Clovis have also claimed feature wins in 2011. Kaeding leads the series with four victories and Murphy won Tulare's 30-lap main event on April 30th. After Saturday’s event, the next Santa Maria appearance for the USAC West Coast 360s will be September 17th for the "Bud Stanfield" Memorial. Among the other top contenders expected to be in action are Dennis Howell of Rancho Palos Verdes, Fresno's T.J. Smith, Justyne Hamblin of Hanford, Gardena's Greg Alexander, and Bakersfield's Rusty Carlile. In addition, Hanford's Jonathan Logan, Ricky Kirkbride of Bakersfield, and Santa Maria's Danny Sheridan should be on hand to battle for the victory.

Santa Maria Speedway is located 1/4-mile north of the 101/166 interchange at 1900 Hutton Road in Nipomo, California. Adult tickets are $16, Senior, Military, and Student tickets (13-17) are $14, Kids tickets (6-12) are $6, and Children’s tickets (5 and under) are FREE. For more event information, visit the track’s website at www.racesantamariaspeedway.com or call (805) 922-2232.

The USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Car Series would like to thank Southwest Contractors, Hoosier Tire, Amsoil, BR Motorsports, ButlerBuilt, Competition Suspension Inc., Cory Kruseman's Sprint Car & Midget Driving School, Crow Enterprizes, DJ Safety, Extreme Mufflers, Hilborn Fuel Injection, Hinchman-Indy Racing Uniforms, Integra Shocks, Kaeding Performance, Keizer Wheels, King Racing Products, Port City Racing, Rod End Supply, Saferacer.com, Saldana Racing Products, and Sander Engineering for their support.

For more information on the USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Car Series, visit www.westcoastsprintcars.com, www.usacracing.com, www.racesantamariaspeedway.com, or follow the series on facebook.
 

8-22-11 Matt Mitchell Scores 2nd Perris Victory
Source Lance Jennings
Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprints

Starting from the sixth starting spot, Yorba Linda's Matt Mitchell used some daring moves to charge forward and score his second Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Car Series victory of the year. Passing "Dynamite" David Cardey of Riverside on lap eight, Mitchell was not to be denied on this night, leading the rest of the way to the checkered flags at Perris Auto Speedway. Nic Faas, Cardey, point leader Mike Spencer, and R.J Johnson rounded out the top five drivers.

Piloting the J.W. Mitchell Motorsports' #37 Mancha Realtors / Sierra Springs Maxim, Matt Mitchell qualified third quick on the night and won his fifth 10-lap event by taking the D.J. Safety Heat Race #3. The former USAC Western Midget Series Rookie of the Year is third in the standings, forty-five points behind Spencer, with nine top-10 finishes, one Keizer Wheels Hard Charger Award, and forty-nine main event laps led on the season.

Nic Faas of Huntington Beach raced to second after starting eighth in the 30-lap feature. Driving Mark Alexander's #4 Scott Sales Company / VP Racing Fuels Spike, Faas earned his second Sander Engineering Fast Time Award over the 31 car field and was second in his heat race. The former USAC Western Midget Series Champion is second in the standings, thirty-four points behind Spencer, with four heat race victories, two Last Man Standing Dash wins, eight top-10 finishes, and one Keizer Wheels Hard Charger Award to his credit.

"Dynamite" David Cardey led the first seven laps in his #59 Circle Track Performance / Victory Race Cars Viper before scoring third at the finish. The former California Lightning Sprint Champion was ninth fast on the night and won the Extreme Mufflers / Huntington Beach Glass & Mirror Heat Race #1. To date, Cardey has one Sander Engineering Fast Time Award, four heat race victories, one Keizer Wheels Hard Charger Award, and five top-10 finishes on the year.

Temecula's Mike Spencer of Temecula claimed fourth after having tire problems at the finish line. Piloting Ron Chaffin's #50 Madera Produce / Grubstake Mini Storage Maxim, Spencer qualified fourth quick and finished second in his heat race. The 3-time series champion and current point leader has five feature wins, four Sander Engineering Fast Time Awards, four heat race victories, one Competition Suspension Inc. Semi-Main win, eight top-10 finishes, and 114 feature laps led to his credit.

R.J. Johnson of Phoenix, Arizona made a rare Perris appearance and scored fifth in the night's action. Driving Bobby Martin's #51 Weiler Farms / Pecon Builders Maxim, the former Arizona Midget Champion was fifth fast in time trials and third in his heat race. Johnson has spent most of the year with the ASCS Canyon 360 Sprints and recently won his first winged Sprint Car feature.

Another Arizona driver to make the trek across the desert was Josh Pelkey of Peoria. Piloting Robbie & Gaye Allen's #12A ABC Auto Body / Advanced Engine Components entry, Pelkey won the Saldana Racing Products / Circle Track Performance Heat Race #2. The former Arizona Sprint Car Champion was tenth quick on the night and claimed twelfth in the 30-lap feature. Like Johnson, Josh has spent most of the year with the ASCS Canyon 360 Sprints and recently competed in the Belleville Midget Nationals.

"The Ripper" Rip Williams of Yorba Linda drove to victory in the Electro Tech Powder Coating / Rod End Supply Heat Race #4. Driving Jack Jory's #3 John Jory Corporation / AMA Plastics Viper, Williams was eighth fast in time trials and scored seventh in the main event. To date, the 2004 series champion is ninth in the point chase with three heat race victories, five top-10 finishes, and six feature laps led to his credit.

Santa Maria feature winner Austin Williams of Yorba Linda won the 12-lap Competition Suspension Inc. Semi-Main. Piloting Jack Jory's #2 John Jory Corporation / AMA Plastics Viper, Williams was seventh fast, seventh in his heat race, and took ninth in the main event. The 2009 Rookie of the Year is fourth in the standings with one heat race victory, one Keizer Wheel Hard Charger Award, and eight top-10 finishes in the 2011.

Another driver making a race Perris appearance is "The Kruser" Cory Kruseman of Ventura. Driving his #21K Lucas Oil / Sander Engineering Eagle, Kruseman earned the night's Keizer Wheels / Best Passing Job honors with a sixth place run after starting fourteenth. Earlier in the program, the 2005 series champion was fourteenth fast in qualifications and third in his heat race. The current USAC Western Midget Series Point Leader has two feature victories, five top-10 finishes, and forty-five main event laps led on the season.

The Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Car Series would like to thank Hoosier Tire, Circle Track Performance, Competition Suspension Inc., DJ Safety, Donovan Engineering, Electro Tech Powder Coating, Extreme Mufflers, Hilborn Fuel Injection, Huntington Beach Glass & Mirror, Keizer Wheels, Rod End Supply, Saldana Racing Products, Sander Engineering, and So-Cal Performance for their support. For more information, visit www.usacracing.com/cra or follow the series on facebook.

The Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Car Series will travel to the famed Calistoga Speedway on September 3rd & 4th for the Louie Vermeil Classic. Located at the Napa County Fairgrounds, more event information can be found at www.louievermeilclassic.net or calling (916) 863-7223.

After Calistoga, the USAC/CRA Sprint Cars will make their first appearance at Chico's Silver Dollar Speedway on Thursday, September 8th, during the famed Gold Cup Race of Champions. Located at the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds, more event information can be found at www.silverdollarspeedway.com or calling (530) 891-6535


 

8-22-11 Two in a Row For Ryan Bernal At Handford
Source Lance Jennings
USAC West Coast 360 Sprints

 After winning his first career USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Car Series feature at Santa Maria on July 30th, Ryan Bernal of Hollister drove to the 30-lap feature win at Hanford's Giant Chevrolet Speedway. The victory marked his second triumph in a row as the series returns to Santa Maria this Saturday, August 27th.

Starting third in the main event, Bernal quickly raced Danny Olmstead's #11D S&S Automotive / Dorso's Automotive Maxim into second. While leader "Showtime" Danny Sheridan of Santa Maria preferred the high line of the Hanford clay oval, Ryan applied pressure from the low groove. The pair raced wheel-to-wheel on several occasions and Bernal secured the lead on the ninth circuit. Despite several yellow flags later in the event, the former Wingless Spec Sprint Champion held his composure and drove to victory. T.J. Smith, Jace VanderWeerd, Peter Murphy, and Richard VanderWeerd rounded out the top five finishers.

With the Hanford win, Ryan Bernal is third in the championship standings and sixty-seven points behind leader Richard VanderWeerd. Earlier in the program, Bernal was second quick on the night and finished third in his heat race. To date, the young driver has two heat race victories, seven top-10 finishes, and leads the series with 101 feature laps led. Twenty-four hours earlier, the Ryan won a Wingless Spec Sprint feature at Watsonville's Ocean Speedway.

Fresno's T.J. Smith had one of his best showings of the year with a second place run after starting sixth. Driving Steve LeGras' #14 UHL Rubber / S&S Automotive Maxim, Smith qualified seventh fast and won the Extreme Mufflers Heat Race #1. The Santa Maria track champion has one Sander Engineering Fast Time Award, three heat race victories, four top-10 finishes, and led thirty main event laps on the season.

Jace VanderWeerd of Visalia scored third in the family owned #88 VanderWeerd Construction / Battery Worx Maxim. In time trials, last season's USAC/CRA Rookie of the Year earned his first Sander Engineering Fast Time Award and later placed third in his heat race. VanderWeerd is currently second in the standings, sixty-two points behind twin brother Richard, with one feature win, one heat race victory, nine top-10 finishes, and fourteen main event laps led.

Veteran Peter Murphy of Clovis made a rare start with the USAC West Coast 360s and claimed fourth in Rick Eberhardt's #4 Ridgeline Framing / Pro Signs Maxim. The former SCRA 360 and Bandit Champion qualified twelfth and finished third in his heat race. To date, Murphy has one feature win, one Keizer Wheels Hard Charger Award, five top-10 finishes, and four feature laps led on the year. Twenty-four hours earlier, Peter won a winged 410 Sprint Car feature at Chico's Silver Dollar Speedway.

Point leader Richard VanderWeerd of Visalia rebounded from an early tangle that sent him to the rear of the field and took fifth at the checkered flags. The pilot of the family owned #10 VanderWeerd Construction / Battery Worx Maxim was fifth fast in time trials and second in his heat race. In 2011, VanderWeerd has one feature win, three Sander Engineering Fast Time Awards, three heat race victories, nine top-10 finishes, and seventeen feature laps led to his credit.

Bakersfield's Rusty Carlile drove to his first 10-lap victory by taking the Saldana Racing Products / Keizer Wheels Heat Race #2. Driving the #51 Southwest Contractors / NTS Incorporated Bullet, Carlile was eleventh fast in qualifications and claimed thirteenth in the Hanford feature. The veteran driver has three top-10 finishes in the 2011 campaign.

Another driver to win their first heat race of 2011 was Justyne Hamblin of Hanford. Piloting the #8 JH Motorsports' Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino / Dias Law Firm Speed Tech entry, Hamblin won the DJ Safety Heat Race #3. The 2009 Series Champion was ninth fast on the night and finished ninth in the main event. Justyne is currently ninth in series points with one Keizer Wheels Hard Charger Award and five top-10 finishes on the year.

Dennis Howell of Rancho Palos Verdes earned his second Keizer Wheels Hard Charger / Best Passing Job honors with a sixth place run after starting fifteenth. Driving the family owned #62 San Pedro Auto Body / Howell-Meyer Racing #62 Maxim, Howell was tenth quick in time trials and fifth in his heat race. The USAC Midget Series graduate climbed to sixth in points with two heat race victories and seven top-10 finishes in 2011.

The USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Car Series would like to thank Southwest Contractors, Hoosier Tire, Amsoil, BR Motorsports, ButlerBuilt, Competition Suspension Inc., Cory Kruseman's Sprint Car & Midget Driving School, Crow Enterprizes, DJ Safety, Extreme Mufflers, Hilborn Fuel Injection, Hinchman-Indy Racing Uniforms, Integra Shocks, Kaeding Performance, Keizer Wheels, King Racing Products, Port City Racing, Rod End Supply, Saferacer.com, Saldana Racing Products, and Sander Engineering for their support.

The USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Car Series will return to action this Saturday, August 27th, at Chris Kearns' Santa Maria Speedway. Located 1/4-mile north of the 101/166 interchange at 1900 Hutton Road in Nipomo, California, more event information can be found at www.racesantamariaspeedway.com or call (805) 922-2232.

For more information on the USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Car Series, please visit westcoastsprintcars.com, usacracing.com, racesantamariaspeedway.com, or follow the series on facebook.



 

8-22-11 CRA Gears Up FOr Back to Back Calistoga Races; Mitchell Gets 2011 Victory #2 at The PAS
Source Dick Jordan
Amsoil USAC/CRA

Mike Spencer continues his drive for an unprecedented fourth consecutive AMSOIL USAC/CRA Sprint car title September 3 and 4 when the series returns to the NAPA County Fairgrounds in Calistoga, Calif. for the annual “Louie Vermeil Classic.”

Spencer is 34 points ahead of runner-up Nic Faas and 55 ahead of third-place Matt Mitchell in the latest standings after finishing fourth in last Saturday night’s race at the Perris (Calif.) Auto Speedway.

Matt Mitchell of Yorba Linda, Calif. earned his second AMSOIL USAC/CRA Sprint car victory of the 2011 season Saturday night at Perris, leading the final 23 laps in his J.W. Mitchell Motorsports/Mancha Realtors Maxim. Fast qualifier Faas finished second ahead of David Cardey, who led the first seven laps, series point leader Spencer and R.J Johnson.


AMSOIL USAC/CRA SPRINT CAR POINT STANDINGS

1-Mike Spencer-622; 2-Nic Faas-588; 3-Matt Mitchell-577; 4-Austin Williams-497; 5-Greg Bragg-404; 6-Cody Williams-398; 7-David Cardey-380; 8-Ronnie Gardner-370; 9-Rip Williams-369; 10-Rickie Gaunt-338.


 

8-22-11 Back to Santa Maria For 360 Sprints Saturday; Bernal Grabs 30- Lapper At Giant Chevrolet Kings Speedway
Source Dick Jordan
USAC West Coast 360s

The VanderWeerd brothers, Richard and Jace of Visalia, Calif., lead the USAC West Coast 360 Sprint cars back to Santa Maria (Calif.) Speedway this Saturday, separated by 62 points in the latest tally. They will need to keep an eye on third-ranking Ryan Bernal, however. Bernal now sits just five points behind Jace after winning last Saturday’s 30-lapper at Giant Chevrolet Kings Speedway in Hanford, Calif.

Bernal, of Hollister, Calif., passed Danny Sheridan on lap nine and led the last 22 laps of Saturday’s race to beat T.J. Smith, fast qualifier Jace VanderWeerd, Peter Murphy and Richard VanderWeerd to the checkered flag.

Jace won the April pouting at Santa Maria, but Bernal is the most recent winner, taking the July 30 race at the one-third mile dirt oval.


USAC WEST COAST 360 SPRINT CAR POINT STANDINGS

1-Richard VanderWeerd-574; 2-Jace VanderWeerd-512; 3-Ryan Bernal-507; 4-Wes Gutierrez-475; 5-Danny Faria Jr.-461; 6-Dennis Howell-398; 7-T.J. Smith-395; 8-Bud Kaeding-376; 9-Justyne Hamblin-367; 10-Greg Alexander-352;.





 

8-20-11 Tarlton Family Wrestles Points Lead From Day With Key Qualifier Win
Source Steven Blakesley
Ocean Speedway

Tommy Tarlton won his second straight Ocean Sprints presented by Taco Bravo feature on Friday night to take the points lead from Salinas’ Ronnie Day as the series prepares for the Johnny Key Classic this Saturday. The 18 car main event was slowed by just two cautions and completed in 12 minutes.

The race also marked the final qualifier for the Key, but with Tarlton already locked in the qualifying spot went to rookie Rico Abreu who finished second.

Fremont’s Shane Golobic led the field from the outside pole on the start of the feature ahead of pole sitter Ken Fredenburg. After a brief caution on lap one when Nick Ringo, Jr. spun, Abreu took over second from Fredenburg with Tarlton following him past for third.

Fredenburg continued to loose positions until finally jumping the cushion in turn two on lap 10 and hitting the wall. Fredenburg was unable to continue and the caution was brought out again. The caution evaporated the near straightaway lead that Golobic had built up on Abreu.

That lap 10 yellow flag proved to be the final stoppage of the 30 lap contest. On the restart, Tarlton snookered Abreu for second and began to reel in Golobic. Day had trouble on the restart bicycling hard and nearly flipping in turn four, falling back to the tenth spot. That allowed the popular Scotts Valley driver Evan Suggs to crack the top-five.

In lapped traffic, Tarlton closed down rapidly on Golobic and began to apply the pressure. After a few failed bids on the inside, Tarlton eventually took over the lead when Golobic jumped the cushion in turn one on lap 20.

Golobic faced off with Abreu and Justin Sanders for second with Abreu taking over the position on lap 27. Tarlton drove off to a comfortable victory over Abreu, Golobic, Sanders, and Suggs. Day recovered for a seventh place finish but still lost the points lead to Tarlton.

With all four Johnny Key Classic qualifiers in the books, Tim Kaeding, Kyle Larson, Tarlton, and Abreu find themselves in the show to be joined by the Day and Sanders who earned positions based on points.

Heat races on the night were all won from the outside front row with wins going to Fresno’s Koen Shaw, Suggs, and Orval Zane Burke who finished sixth in the main event. The Ray Scheidt’s Electric fast-time award worth $75 went to Day at 11.510 while the DDNi Hard Charger award for $100 went to Eric Rossi who drove the Wayne Katen #99 from 17th to 11th.

Tarlton leads Day by six points as the series will continue this Saturday night with the 51st running of the Johnny Key Classic for $5,000 to win. The balance of the field will be set through a pair of b-main events before getting underway for the 50 lap feature.
Laps are still for sale for the Johnny Key Classic with interested parties urged to contact samantha@oceanspeedway.com Laps are $50 each to be paid out to the top-three cars each lap.

For more information on the Ocean Sprint Cars presented by Taco Bravo log onto http://www.oceansprints.com and for more on the Ocean Speedway visit http://www.oceanspeedway.com

 

8-18-11 USAC West Coast 360 Sprints Clash at Hanford Saturday
Source Lance Jennings
USAC West Coast 360 Sprints

This Saturday night, August 20th, the USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Car Series will compete at Scott Woodhouse's Giant Chevrolet Kings Speedway. Also featured on the action packed card will be the Winged ASCS Southern California Sprints, IMCA Modifieds, and IMCA Stock Cars. The Pit Gates will open at 1:00pm, Spectator Gates at 5:00pm, Time Trials at 6:00pm, with Racing scheduled for 6:30pm.

Twin brothers Richard and Jace VanderWeerd of Visalia lead the championship point chase heading into Saturday's action. Piloting the family owned #10 VanderWeerd Construction / Battery Worx Maxim, Richard holds a seventy-one point advantage over the competition. VanderWeerd placed third at Santa Maria on July 30th and has one feature win, three Sander Engineering Fast Time Awards, three heat race victories, eight top-10 finishes, and led seventeen main event laps. Richard will be looking for the Hanford feature victory and inch closer to the championship.

Jace VanderWeerd raced the family owned #88 VanderWeerd Construction / Battery Worx Maxim to seventh at Santa Maria on July 30th. With seventy-four points up for grabs at Hanford, Jace will have his sights set on Saturday's 30-lap win and gain some valuable ground on his brother. To date, last year's USAC/CRA Sprint Car Rookie of the Year has one feature win, one heat race victory, eight top-10 finishes and led fourteen main event laps on the year.

After winning his first career series feature at Santa Maria on July 30th, Hollister's Ryan Bernal climbed to third in the point chase. Driving Danny Olmstead's #11D S&S Automotive / Dorso's Automotive Maxim, Bernal has two heat race victories, six top-10 finishes, and led seventy-nine main event laps. The former Wingless Spec Sprint Champion is eighty-one points behind the leader and will be looking for the top spot on Saturday.

"Hollywood" Danny Faria Jr. of Tipton is tied with Bernal for third in the point standings. Piloting Junior Bowman's #2 Buster & Ziggy Enterprises / Kaeding Performance Bullet, Faria was second to Bernal at Santa Maria and won Hanford's Jim Evett Memorial on July 16th. The veteran driver has two Sander Engineering Fast Time Awards, three heat race victories, five top-10 finishes, and led thirty-two laps on main event competition. Faria will be looking to add Saturday's feature win to his resume.

Sitting fifth in the championship points is "Wide Open" Wes Gutierrez of San Martin. Driving the WG Motorsports' #007 ButlerBuilt / Competition Suspension Inc. DRC, Gutierrez claimed sixth at Santa Maria on July 30th. The hard charging driver leads the series with four heat race victories and has six top-10 finishes on the year. Wes will have his eyes on Saturday's 30-lap main event win.

Campbell's Bud Kaeding and Peter Murphy of Clovis have also claimed feature wins in 2011. Kaeding leads the series with four victories and Murphy won Tulare's 30-lap main event on April 30th. Saturday’s card will mark the fourth of seven scheduled events at Hanford's Giant Chevrolet Kings Speedway, including the "Jim Turner Memorial" on September 10th.

Among the other top contenders expected to be in action are Greg Alexander of Gardena, Rancho Palos Verdes' Dennis Howell, Fresno's T.J. Smith, Justyne Hamblin of Hanford, and Bakersfield's Rusty Carlile. In addition, Hanford's Jonathan Logan, Kerman's Davey Pombo, and Ricky Kirkbride of Bakersfield should be on hand to battle for the victory.

Giant Chevrolet Kings Speedway is located on the Kings County Fairgrounds at 801 S. 10th Avenue in Hanford, California. Reserved Grandstand tickets are $15. Advance tickets are on sale now and camping is available on the fairgrounds. For more event information, visit giantchevroletspeedway.com or call (559) 584-RACE (7223).

The USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Car Series would like to thank Southwest Contractors, Hoosier Tire, Amsoil, BR Motorsports, ButlerBuilt, Competition Suspension Inc., Cory Kruseman's Sprint Car & Midget Driving School, Crow Enterprizes, DJ Safety, Extreme Mufflers, Hilborn Fuel Injection, Hinchman-Indy Racing Uniforms, Integra Shocks, Kaeding Performance, Keizer Wheels, King Racing Products, Port City Racing, Rod End Supply, Saferacer.com, Saldana Racing Products, and Sander Engineering for their support.

For more information on the USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Car Series, visit www.westcoastsprintcars.com, www.usacracing.com, www.racesantamariaspeedway.com, or follow the series on facebook.


 

8-17-11 Fans Take the Track This Saturday at All American Speedway
Source RMG Race Media Group
All American Speedway

All American Speedway’s highly anticipated Fan Appreciation Night takes place this Saturday, August 20th. The gates to the asphalt oval will be opened as fans take the track to mingle with the drivers, get autographs, and see race cars up close. All the cars and drivers from all divisions bring their cars on track for the annual meet and greet.

Other plans include two bounce houses, kids cub karts, lots of free giveaways such as tickets for the Speedway and other events, t-shirts, caps, food coupons and more.

When the pros take over the track it will be for the NASCAR Whelen All American Series championship points race featuring NASCAR Late Models 100, Modifieds 40, Street Stocks and Bombers 35 laps. As the weather continues to stay hot with Saturday expecting temperatures in the low 90’s the points chase will also continue to get heated providing lots of racing action.

In the Street Stock division, Mickey Owens continues to hold his points lead over the field, but finished second last weekend handing the win to Richard Poppert Jr. who is currently second in points. In third, Byron Gonzales is still working his magic on narrowing the gap for second.

After a week off, NASCAR Late Models return. Matt Scott continues to lead the field with a 23 point advantage over Jason Romero sitting in second. Romero continues his winning streak as he tries to close the gap for first. Rookie driver Dylan Hutchison continues to show progression in his first year of stock car racing and has moved into the fourth position narrowing the gap for third with Juan Pitta.

Dan Jinkerson has gained in his first place points lead as he captured his second Modified win this season. Currently in second, Steve Cote is working hard to get Jinkerson shaking in his boots for the 2011 championship. With three races and one twin 50s left for the 2011 season the battle for the top spot will only continue to get heated.

Seven time Bomber feature winner, Chris Paulson has finalized his 2011 Championship since the two drivers in second and third in points, Erick Ray and Matt Camp, have been placed on probation, losing all competition points, which gives Richard Perez the second spot. The gap between Perez and Paulson is so far that Paulson has set in stone the 2011 championship.

Pit Gates and Registration opens at noon with practice starting at 2 pm. The Grandstands open at 4pm with qualifying set for 4pm and green flag racing at 6pm. Ticket prices for the evening will be as follows:

Adults (16-59) $13
Seniors (60+), Juniors (6-15) $7
Kids 6 & Under FREE
Family Pass (2 Adults, 3 Jrs) $35

More information about All American Speedway can be found at www.AllAmericanSpeedway.com. The Placer County Fairgrounds administration office is open for advance ticket sales Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm at 800 All America City Blvd. Roseville, CA. 95678, or contact the office at (916) 786-2025.









 

8-17-11 Final Johnny Key Classic Qualifier on Tap For Friday Night at Ocean
Source Steven Blakesley
Ocean Speedway

 In the midst of a heavy battle for the points lead in the Ocean Sprints presented by Taco Bravo championship, drivers will also be seeking a berth in the 51st Johnny Key Classic in Friday night’s action at Ocean Speedway.

Four drivers will be locked in to the Johnny Key Classic through qualifying nights with Tim Kaeding, Kyle Larson, and Tommy Tarlton already locked in. The two highest drivers in the points after Friday night’s races will also earn berths meaning that points leader Ronnie Day of Salinas is a near lock to make the show as is rookie sensation Rico Abreu.

Day leads Tarlton by just four points after the most recent feature on July 29 with Tarlton closing down rapidly on him. Day has driven the #22 Keith Day Trucking to a consistent season with only one finish outside of fourth. Tarlton has won twice in the Ocean Sprints in 2011, with one win at Ocean Speedway and one coming at the Tulare Thunderbowl in April.

The battle for third in the points standings is getting interesting as third place running Abreu, in the #89 Abreu Vinyards mount, has seen his advantage over Prunedale’s Justin Sanders diminish to just 10 points. Tommy Laliberte runs fifth in the points and 42 points behind Abreu.

Laliberte will drive a new mount starting on Friday, taking the reigns of the TW Performance #20 and stepping out of the family-owned #20x. Young Michael Twitchell is set to make his series debut this weekend in the #37 and Eric Rossi is expected to return driving the #99 for Wayne Katen.

“Cowboy” Craig Smith, Kurt Nelson, Kevin Pylant, Fremont’s Shane Golobic, and Ryan Rusconi of San Jose round out the top-ten in the points. Golobic will remain in the Steve Osborne Motorsports #9J car for Friday but may end up back in the #121 for the Johnny Key Classic.

The highest finishing car on Friday that is not yet qualified into the Johnny Key Classic will be awarded a spot in the 50 lap marathon for Saturday August 27.

Laps are currently for sale for the Johnny Key Classic with interested parties urged to contact samantha@oceanspeedway.com Laps are $50 each to be paid out to the top-three cars each lap.

The Ocean Sprints presented by Taco Bravo show this Friday night includes Wingless Sprints and Four Bangers along with the 2nd annual Police N Pursuit. Adult tickets are just $17 with seniors 65+ $15 and kids ages 6-12 are $12. The family pass for two adults and two children is value priced at just $50. Qualifying will get underway at 6 p.m. with fan gates opening at 4:30 p.m.


For more information on the Ocean Sprint Cars presented by Taco Bravo log onto http://www.oceansprints.com and for more on the Ocean Speedway visit http://www.oceanspeedway.com

 

8-16-11 Dan Jinkerson Takes Two for 2011 at All American Speedway
Source RMG Race Media Group
All American Speedway

Dan Jinkerson, No. 29 Modified, has found his groove and pulled out his second win for the season after finishing second the week prior. The night was once again a family entertainment venue with great on- track action featuring Modifieds, Street Stocks, Bomber and the WSRA. The season is winding down and points battles continue to heat up as the track was fresh off its controversial Bomber race where two competitors tempers got overheated, leaving Matt Camp and Eric Ray on probation. Fans made their way back to the Speedway to capture more of the great racing excitement AAS has become accustomed to offering. The Speedway will pay them back with Fan Appreciation Night this Saturday, August 20.

The NASCAR drivers of the future opened the evening with WSRA mini cups fielding seven cars. No. 23 Tommy McCarthy posted a blazing fast lap around the track with a fast time of 16.891 seconds. Followed by No. 03 Bryce Napier, No. 22 Hunter Franklin, No. 1 Andrew Vanderpool and No. 5 Zack Case the fast five. Four drivers made it to the trophy dash with Tommy McCarthy taking home the trophy dash victory. On the start of the 25 lap main, No. 27 Collin Mullen and Zack Case led the field to the green flag. On lap one, Mullen and Case were side by side into turn one, in turn two Mullen got a big run off to jump out for the lead. On lap 13, No. 44 Jared Cronk got loose in turn two spinning and causing the races first yellow flag. Single file restart with Andrew Vanderpool leading the field to the green. On lap 24 another yellow waved with Jared Cronk again spinning and Hunter Franklin spun as well. Tommy McCarthy had a good run on the restart to make the pass for the lead on the last lap capturing the Mini Cup victory. Bryce Napier second, Andrew Vanderpool third, Zack Case fourth and Collin Mullen fifth.

Second up was the 13 car field of Street Stocks and No. 23 Richard Poppert, Jr. was fast out of the box, collecting fast time in qualifying, with a time of 15.049 seconds. Followed by No, 08 Mickey Owens, No. 86 Dave Silva, No. 21 Kevin Owens and No. 98 Byron Gonzales the fast five. Richard Poppert Jr. took the first heat race win and Mickey Owens grabbed the second heat race victory. Richard Poppert Jr., Byron Gonzales, No. 22 Mark Blanton and No. 1 Lonnie Leonard made it to the trophy dash with Poppert collecting the trophy dash victory. On the start of the 35 lap main event, Mel Wilson set the pace for the start of the green flag and took advantage of the early lead. Byron Gonzales quickly took over the top spot by passing Wilson on the outside. On lap five, No. 24 Earl Lee got loose and spun causing a yellow flag. On the restart, Gonzales pulled away as the field behind him were left battling for the second spot. On lap 11, Mickey Owens caught up to Gonzales and stole the lead. On lap 15, Poppert challenged Owens for the lead as the two drivers raced side by side. As the two drivers continued to race side by side they caught lapped traffic, on lap 19 Poppert finally took the lead from Owens. On lap 33, Spencer Emerson got loose in turn four spinning into the front stretch wall causing a red flag due to fire under the hood. All American Speedway safety crew quickly put the fire out and Emerson exited safely. After the restart, Poppert took the lead and led the green-white-checkered flag to collect his fourth Street Stock victory. Followed by Mickey Owens, Davis Silva, Byron Gonzales and Kevin Owens the final five.

Ten Modifieds contested the race day events with No. 4 Steve Cote on top for qualifying with a fast time of 14.391 seconds followed by No. 8 Andy Field, No.5 Jason Bamberg, No. 21 Bobby Runyan and No. 68 Cody Thompson the fast five. Points leader No. 29 Dan Jinkerson suffered an awful qualifying result and got his machine ready to win the ten lap heat race. An invert of seven was spun putting Jinkerson to lead the field to the green flag. Dan Jinkerson took the early lead creating a gap over the field. On lap four, Bobby Runyan and Andy Field began racing each other hard with the two drivers rubbing fenders getting Field sideways. A caution free main event for the Modifieds allowed Jinkerson to gain over a straight away lead on the field collecting his second 2011 All American Speedway victory. Followed by No. 68 Cody Thompson, No. 4 Steve Cote, No. 5 Jason Bamberg and No. 43 Nick Lyons the top five.

Last up on the agenda was the 11 Bomber field including Gary Glenn making his debut in the division. No. 24 Cody Rickard put his machine on top of the charts for qualifying with a fast time of 15.851 seconds barely holding No. 3 Chris Paulson in second followed by No. 77 Erick Ray, No. 52 Matt Camp and No. 23 Eric Bocksberger the fast five. Erick Ray grabbed the first heat race win and Matt Camp took home the second heat race win. No. 22 Keith Hopkinson, making a return to the speedway, made it into the trophy dash along with Matt Camp, Erick Ray, and Richard Perez. Matt Camp had the advantage on the start and took home the trophy dash victory. In the main, an invert of five was spun setting Keith Hopkinson and No. 63 Joe Rhodes to set the pace for the start of the green flag. Hopkinson took the early lead on lap one before Joe Rhodes took over the lead for a few laps. Chris Paulson then drove low in turn three to make the pass for the lead. On lap ten, rubbing occurred between the two track probation drivers Erick Ray and Matt Camp sending Camp spinning causing a yellow flag. On the restart, Chris Paulson took the lead and led the remainder with a 1.744 second lead collecting his seventh 2011 All American Speedway Bomber victory. Followed by Richard Perez, Cody Rickard, Erick Ray and Matt Camp.

Don’t forget Fan Appreciation night is Saturday, August 20th and the speedway will be providing two kids bounce houses, cub karts for the kids, giveaways for T-shirts, admission tickets, and Food coupons as well as the popular tradition of on track autograph sessions for the fans to interact with drivers and get up close and personal with the race cars.
Weekly NASCAR Championship Points Race No. 14 will return to All American Speedway this Saturday, August 20th featuring Fan Night with NASCAR Late Models 100, Modifieds 40, Street Stocks and Bombers 35. More information about All American Speedway, as well as driver interviews, can be found at www.AllAmericanSpeedway.com. The Placer County Fairgrounds administration office is open for advance ticket sales Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm at 800 All America City Blvd. Roseville, CA. 95678, or contact the office at (916) 786-2025.


 

8-16-11 First Career NASCAR Modified Pole For Cote
Source Ron Sutton's Winner's Circle
All American Speedway

 Steve Cote continued his drive for the NASCAR Modified championship at All American Speedway by taking his Allstar Performance #4 car to quick time in Saturday night’s action. The 2010 NASCAR Quebec Provisional champion drives for Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle and is second in the points in his first season racing in California.

Cote, 20, has accumulated three wins and a pair of second place finishes thus far in the highly-competitive NASCAR Modified division at All American Speedway. All American Speedway is a tricky one-third mile asphalt oval outside Sacramento with four distinctly different turns. Along with racing for a new team in a new series, Cote has also been a major part of the development of the new RaceCar Factory Modified chassis which the RSWC team debuted this year.

Despite all of these challenges, Cote finds himself within 30 points of points leader Dan Jinkerson in the track standings. On Saturday Cote picked up an important fast-time qualifying effort with a 14.391 second lap.

A seven car invert placed Cote seventh on the grid for the 40 lap feature. Cote blitzed up to third by lap 13, but Jinkerson’s lead was insurmountable without a caution flag. Unfortunately the race stayed green and Cote was forced to settle for a third place finish.

“We really needed a caution flag to close things up and it never came,” Team Manager Jason Houghtaling said. “Again Steve was the fastest car on the track we just didn’t get the results to show it.”

Cote will return to action at All American Speedway this Saturday night with the final race of an eight consecutive week marathon for the NASCAR Modified division. Another 40 lap main event is on the card.

Racing action gets underway at 6 p.m. PST and can be followed live around the world on Cote’s website at www.stevecoteracing.com

Steve Cote Racing and Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle thanks partners: Allstar Performance, K&N Filters, Scribner Plastics, Sunoco Race Fuels and Star Racing Supply.

For more information on Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle, log on to www.winners-circle-racing.com



 

8-15-11 Race & Ride For Autism Produced Some Thrills and Spills on the Tricky Quarter-Mile
Source David Holman
Stockton 99 Speedway

On Saturday, August 13th, the NASCAR Whelen All American Racing Series rolled back onto the high banks in Race & Ride For Autism with the Western Late Models in 100 Laps of fast and furious action. Also on the ticket for the Event were the Vintage Hard Tops, Ford Focus Midgets, Basically-4-Cylinders and the Enduro Series Race #3. This weekend there was an assortment of flavors to quench the hunger of every octane-drenched taste bud in the race-lovers repertoire. From the hard-core stock cars to the wet and wild Enduro, this is one date you didn’t want to miss. And the 1500 fans in the stands were race-ready and filled with anticipation in what this night held forth in her action-packed hands.

The Ford Focus Midgets took to the asphalt to get the show underway. Thirteen year old Brodie Kostecki (40) of Perth, Australia would rise to the top on this night as he crossed beneath the checkers in this fast-paced battle.

Keegan Walmer (42) of Portland, OR rolled off P1 on the starting grid with Jessica Clark (44) of Westlake Village rolling out high and tight to get this first race up to speed. Walmer grabbed a huge chunk of asphalt coming to the green and beat the field down into turn one for the lead. Unfortunately, it would be an abbreviated lead when, on lap 3, Garrett Peterson (31) of West Sacramento jetted by the #42 to take control of the top spot where he would hold strong over the next ten circuits until lap 13, when the #40 of Brodie Kostecki, starting P6 on the grid, decided it was his turn to shine as he showed overwhelming power in snatching the lead away, quite handily. From that point forward it would be all about Kostecki as he took it the rest of the way, pretty much unmolested, to the checkers and the Lion’s share of the spoils. Cody Gerhardt (60) of Madera, after starting from the number five spot, worked his way patiently to a second place finish. Walmer slipped back, if only slightly, but still managed a podium finish in third. Clark, as well, slid back a bit to finish fourth, while the #24 of Paul Graham rounded out the top five.

In the Vintage Hard Top Division, the car-count was scant at best, but these racers are serious about racing and always put their right feet forward. And so it was on this night, Charles Mart (00) of Salida led from the gun in their ten lap romp, beating Santa Rosa’s Conrad Cavallero (2) at the line by a mere .141, making this the closest finish of the evening.

The Young Guns were up next in the first of Twin Races. Brodie Kostecki (40) continued his dream night by winning both the Twins in a very convincing and quite impressive manner. The finish in both races were identical as well with Trevor Hunt (11) racing his way to second, while Keegan Walmar drove her onto the podium in third. The #8 of James Eden brought her home in the number four position to cap off the Young Guns’ night.

Nothing out of the ordinary went on in the Basically-4-Cylinders Division with Points Leader Joseph Reichmuth (6) of Manteca exploiting the entire field with the power his little hotrod possesses as he jumped out early and never looked back, notching his eighth win on the year.

French Camp’s Mark Jacke (747) grabbed the pole in this one with Reichmuth high and to the right. And of course, Reichmuth got the great run on the outside, which this year, has been there for the taking, as he drove off into turn one with the lead. Unfortunately, this race took a wicked twist coming off turn four down the frontstretch when, on lap 1, Modesto’s Jennifer Corder (24) and Hughson’s Tommy Wood (28) made contact, with Wood climbing up the side of Corder and landing on his lid up by turn one, which brought out an immediate red. The #01 of Chris Boone also caught a piece of the action and all three cars were done for the night. All drivers were checked at the Infield Care Center and released. On the restart, Jacke showed some of his potential power by wrestling the lead away from Reichmuth, only to be slowed two laps later when the #11 of Adrian Desousa looped over in turn two, which brought with it the final caution on the night. On the lap 3 restart, Reichmuth grabbed a gear and took control of that much-coveted real estate out front in the clean air, where he would bask in the limelight, chewing away at the asphalt, relentlessly, until he had lapped all the way up to third place as he crossed beneath the checkers for his eighth Victory of the Season. Jacke shadowed Reichmuth’s every move, but in the end, the #6 car was simply too much to overcome and Jacke had to settle for second for the third race in a row. Third generation driver from Manteca, Firecracker Matt Anderson (5), mired deep on the starting grid, did a marvelous job working through traffic as he drove it onto the podium in third. Third generation female driver from Ceres, Samantha Williams (4), after negotiating traffic with some astonishing moves of her own, brought her home fourth, while Mr. Consistency Kelle Bobbitt (61) of Stockton rounded out the top five.

In the Western Late Model Race & Ride for Autism 100, Seaside’s Dave Byrd (78) broke his silence after ten top-five finishes this year. Byrd decided it was time to show his extensive and exclusives skills as he took the lead on lap 27 and took it the rest of the way to score his first win of the year.

Second generation driver from Stockton, Colby Potts (12), was triumphant in gaining P1 to head the field to green. Sharing front-row honors was 2009 National Rookie of the Year from Manteca, Jacob Gomes (51X), up on the wheel and ready to go out to the right. When the green flag dropped, Gomes wasted no time in determining where he wanted to run in this event by grabbing the holeshot going down into one. Unfortunately, on lap 7, the greedy God of Mechanical Woes reared its ugly held and misfortune befell the #51X when, on lap 10, the young Star from Manteca exited into the pits and his night was done before it started. Meanwhile, on lap 7, Potts inherited the lead as Gomes slowed on the racing surface, only to be displaced two laps later by another young driver, Clovis’s Trevor Schlundt (28). Once out front, Schlundt appeared stout, but Byrd had moved into second and began biting pieces of bumper off the rear of the #28 until, on lap 27, Byrd wrestled the lead away from Schlundt who had no choice but to relinquish that prime spot to the better car on this night. From that point forward, and despite the agony of six more restarts, Byrd refused to give up control of that all-important atmosphere out front to the hard charge of Points Leader Jeff Belletto (12X) of Modesto. With the checkers flying high in the night sky, Byrd drove beneath them to the sweet taste of Victory, his on the Season and a very popular one, at that. Belletto, in what is undeniably the strongest car this year, worked his way from mid-pack on the starting grid, to finish a beautiful second place run. Cody Hodgson (55X) of Manteca, recently running back east, was home to finish a very solid race on the podium in third. Modesto’s Mike Beeler (6), always a threat, crossed the stripe in fourth with San Ramon’s Tim Spurgeon (86), in a rare appearance this year, managed a very nice fifth place finish.

The Enduro race got off as wild as usual with Manteca’s Ryan Strmiska (98) grabbing the lead early on and appearing quite strong. However, after working his way through the deluge of water and sheet metal, Carmichael’s Chris Lancaster (7), as he often does, sniffed out the leader on lap 30 and took control from there where he would lead until lap 92 when Strmiska took it back for himself. Over the next several circuits, these two drivers would put on a wonderful display of car control until lap 112, when Strmiska took over the reign for the final time and rode it all the way out to the checkers for the very popular win. Lancaster would finish in a not-so-far second and the only other car on the lead lap. The #01 Brandon Ericson finished a great night and landed on the podium in third. Superstar David Papst Jr. (2) of Lodi brought her home in fourth, while another Lodi driver, Adam Baggett (24X), rounded out the top five.

Next Saturday, August 20th, Jackson Rancheria Presents the SRL Spears Southwest Tour Series Late Models along with the Legends of the Pacific, Pro-4 Modifieds and the NCMA Sprint Cars. Plus $25 Slot Play & Raffles!

The New Stockton 99 Speedway is located at 4105 N. Wilson Way, ¼-mile west of Highway 99. For more information on tickets and times, please contact the Speedway Office at (209)466-9999 or visit their Website at www.stockton99.com.





 

8-15-11 Austin Williams Scores 1st USAC/CRA Victory At Santa Maria
Source Lance Jennings
Amsoil USAC/CRA

Last Saturday night, Yorba Linda's Austin Williams led all 30-laps to claim his first career victory with the Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Cars at Santa Maria Speedway. It was not an easy victory for the 2009 Rookie of the Year, as he held off a determined "Showtime" Danny Sheridan, Ronnie Gardner, and "Hollywood" Danny Faria Jr. With the victory, Austin became the fifth different winner in ten events and currently sits fourth in the championship point chase.

Driving Jack Jory's #2 Viper, backed by the John Jory Corporation and AMA Plastics, Austin Williams was tenth fast in qualifications and third in his heat race. By virtue of two faster cars missing a top four finish in their heat races, Austin would start on the pole position of the main event. Making the best of the opportunity, Williams got the jump on fellow front row starter Danny Sheridan to grab the lead. The tight Santa Maria clay oval provided close wheel to wheel racing and the son of Hall of Fame driver Rip Williams faced constant pressure from Sheridan. Ronnie Gardner and Danny Faria Jr. later joined in close formation to form a lead pack, but it was Austin Williams' night, taking the win in front of a large Santa Maria crowd. To date, Austin has one heat race victory, one Keizer Wheel Hard Charger Award, and seven top-10 finishes on the year.

"Showtime" Danny Sheridan drove the #18 Kittle Motorsports' Pace Lightning / PIPE Sherman to the runner-up finish in front of his hometown fans. The former Santa Maria track champion was ninth quick in time trials and finished second in his heat race. "Showtime" pressured Austin Williams throughout the feature, but it was not to be on this night. Splitting the year with the USAC West Coast 360 Sprints, Danny climbed to ninth in the standings with one heat race victory, one Competition Suspension Inc. Semi-Main win, and five top-10 finishes to his credit.

Norco's Ronnie Gardner continues to impress in Jeff Gardner's #93 Jamison Engineering / DWT Wheels Sled with a third place run. The young driver worked his way from fifth to close in on Williams and Sheridan to score third at the finish. Earlier in the program, Ronnie was fifth quick in time trials, third in his heat race, and second in the Last Man Standing Dash. Gardner is now seventh in the points, with two Sander Engineering Fast Time Awards, one heat race victory, and five top-10 finishes on the season.

"Hollywood" Danny Faria Jr. of Tipton took advantage of a night off with the USAC West Coast 360s and claimed fourth in the 30-lap feature. Piloting Junior Bowman's #2X Bullet sponsored by Buster & Ziggy Enterprises and Kaeding Performance, Faria was eight fast in qualifications and won the Saldana Racing Products / Circle Track Performance Heat Race #2. Danny is currently seventeenth in the championship points with two heat race victories, three top-10 finishes, and thirteen feature laps led.

Like Faria, USAC West Coast 360 Point Leader Richard VanderWeerd of Visalia joined the USAC/CRA action to race at Santa Maria. Driving the family's #10 VanderWeerd Construction / Battery Worx Maxim, Richard was sixth quick on the night, fourth in his heat race, and fifth in the main event. As this writing goes to press, VanderWeerd is thirteenth in points with one Sander Engineering Fast Time Award, one heat race victory, and three top-10 finishes on the year.

Yorba Linda's Matt Mitchell earned the Keizer Wheels Hard Charger / Best Passing Job honors on the night with a ninth place run after starting seventeenth. Driving the J.W. Mitchell Motorsports' #37 Mancha Realtors / Sierra Springs Maxim, Matt was seventeenth fast on the night and scored sixth in his heat race after a violent flip. Mitchell walked away uninjured and his crew worked valiantly to repair his machine for the main event. Their efforts and Mitchell's hard driving salvaged their night as the former USAC Western Midget Series standout sits third in the standings with one feature win, four heat race victories, eight top-10 finishes, and twenty-six main event laps led on the year.

USAC/CRA Point Leader Mike Spencer of Temecula earned his fourth Sander Engineering Fast Time Award of the year at Santa Maria. Piloting Ron Chaffin's #50 Madera Produce / Grubstake Mini Storage Maxim, Spencer won the Extreme Mufflers / Huntington Beach Glass & Mirror Heat Race #1 and the Rugged Radios $1000 Last Man Standing Dash. Finishing sixth in the 30-lap feature, Mike now holds a forty-three point advantage over the competition with five main event wins, four heat race victories, one Competition Suspension Inc. Semi-Main win, seven top-10 finishes, and 114 feature laps led to his credit.

"The Kruser" Cory Kruseman of Ventura drove his #21K Eagle sponsored by Lucas Oil and Sander Engineering to victory in the DJ Safety Heat Race #3. The USAC Western Midget Series Point Leader was fifteenth fast in qualifications and scored eleventh in the feature. Also splitting time with the VRA 360 Sprints and Midgets, Kruseman is currently twelfth in USAC/CRA standings with two feature wins, four top-10 finishes, and forty-five main event laps led on the season.

The Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Car Series would like to thank Hoosier Tire, Circle Track Performance, Competition Suspension Inc., DJ Safety, Donovan Engineering, Electro Tech Powder Coating, Extreme Mufflers, Hilborn Fuel Injection, Huntington Beach Glass & Mirror, Keizer Wheels, Rod End Supply, Saldana Racing Products, Sander Engineering, and So-Cal Performance for their support. For more information, visit www.usacracing.com/cra or follow the series on facebook.

Round #11 for the Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Car Series will be held this Saturday, August 20th at Don Kazarian's Perris Auto Speedway. Located on the Lake Perris Fairgrounds, more event information can be found at www.perrisautospeedway.com or calling (951) 940-0134.

 

8-15-11 CRA Back to The PAS This Saturday; Austin Williams Gets #1 At Santa Maria
Source Dick Jordan
Amsoil USAC/CRA

Mike Spencer has won four of the five AMSOIL USAC/CRA Sprint races held so far this year at Perris (Calif.) Auto Speedway. Saturday night he’ll try to continue that success at the half-mile dirt oval.

Only Matt Mitchell has interrupted Spencer’s streak, winning at The PAS May 28. That night Spencer was the fastest qualifier but finished 15th in the feature.

Spencer’s point lead in the AMSOIL USAC/CRA Sprint series stands at 43 points over Nic Faas, while Mitchell ranks third 56 points behind.

Austin Williams of Yorba Linda, Calif. earned his initial AMSOIL USAC/CRA Sprint car feature victory Saturday night at Santa Maria (Calif.) Speedway. He led all 30 laps in his AMA Plastics/Persall Masonry Viper/Shaver to beat Danny Sheridan, Ronnie Gardner, Danny Faria Jr. and Richard VanderWeerd. Spencer was the fastest qualifier, won his heat race and the Last Man Standing Dash and finished sixth in the 30-lap feature


AMSOIL USAC/CRA SPRINT CAR POINT STANDINGS

1-Mike Spencer-561; 2-Nic Faas-518; 3-Matt Mitchell-505; 4-Austin Williams-457; 5-Greg Bragg-385; 6-Cody Williams-362; 7-Ronnie Gardner-343; 8-Rickie Gaunt-338; 9-Danny Sheridan-333; 10-Rip Williams-319.





 

8-15-11 Hanford's ginat Chevrolet Kings Speedway Hosts 360s
Source Dick Jordan
USAC West Coast 360s

The 2011 USAC West Coast 360 Sprint Car Championship resumes Saturday night at Giant Chevrolet Kings Speedway in Hanford, Calif. and point leaders Richard and Jace VanderWeerd of Visalia, Calif. will continue their season-long struggle for the point lead.
Richard holds a 71-point advantage heading into Saturday’s race, but both drivers will have to keep an eye on three close contenders. Ryan Bernal and Danny Faria Jr. trail Jace by just 10 points, while Wes Gutierrez is only another 12 behind.
The VanderWeerds each have a feature win this season, Jace at Santa Maria, Calif. and Richard at Hanford. Richard also has four third-places and Jace one.
Faria also has a Hanford victory this year as well as Bud Kaeding. A total of 74 points are available Saturday, so the standings could change somewhat as a result of Saturday’s race.

USAC WEST COAST 360 SPRINT CAR POINT STANDINGS
1-Richard VanderWeerd-517; 2-Jace VanderWeerd-446; 3-Ryan Bernal-436; 4-Danny Faria Jr.-436; 5-Wes Gutierrez-424; 6-Bud Kaeding-376; 7-Greg Alexander-352; 8-Dennis Howell-349; 9-T.J. Smith-330; 10-Justyne Hamblin-323.



 

8-12-11 Championship battles roar into All American Speedway this Saturday, August 13^th
Source RMG Race Media Group
All American Speedway

As the last half of the 2011 season starts to dwindle, NASCAR points racing is leaving some battle scars at All American Speedway.  The agenda for Saturday, August 13^th, will feature the NASCAR Modifieds in their 40 lap main, Street Stocks and Bombers 35 laps and joining the series will be WSRA mini cups. With only six races left, some points battles have tightened and some have stretched out Following a Saturday night filled with action on the track, excitement is kicking it up a notch as the racers battle for the 2011 championship titles.

In the street stock division, Mickey Owens continues to hold his points lead over the field, after suffering a flat tire in the last main, caused him to run from the back of the field. But he finished first without losing a win. Runner up, Richard Poppert Jr. also suffered a scare by losing his hood and having an impressive run from the back of the pack to finishing second, which now seats him a mere 31 points out of the lead. Sitting in third , Byron Gonzales continues to impress as he gains a position in the points rankings, working on narrowing the gap for second.

In the NASCAR Late Models, Matt Scott continues to lead the field with a 23 point advantage over second. Sitting in second, Jason Romero continues his winning streak as he tries to close the gap for first. Rookie driver Dylan Hutchsion continues to show progression in his first year of stock car racing and has moved into the fourth position narrowing the gap for third with Juan Pitta.

Dan Jinkerson leads the Modified division with 18 points over second. Currently in second, Steve Cote, who captured his third win last weekend, is charging for the top spot. With five more races left for the 2011 season the battle for the top spot will only continue to get heated.

The whirlwind Bomber division gained a new winner to add to the 2011 winners book. Jill Schmidt, not running for points, caught her first ever feature win this past weekend. Chris Paulson, on a roll leading the way in points with a stretch of 64 points from second, is looking to lock in the 2011 All American Speedway Bomber Championship.

Please come to support our Speedway Monday, August 15^th at 7pm wearing blue as supervisor Jack Duran will hold a community forum being hosted at the Placer County Fairgrounds. This is your opportunity to show support and learn the most current information about the sound study and operating agreement. Supervisor Duran and other county officials will be discussing the next steps and timelines.

Don’t forget Fan Appreciation night is Saturday, August 20^th and the speedway will be providing two kids bounce houses, cub karts for the kids, giveaways for T-shirts, admission tickets, and Food coupons as well as the popular tradition of on track autograph sessions for the fans to interact with drivers and get up close and personal with the race cars.

Pit Gates and Registration opens at noon with practice starting at 2pm. The Grandstands open at 4pm with qualifying set for 4pm and green flag racing at 6pm. Ticket prices for the evening will be as follows:

Adults (16-59) $13
Seniors (60+), Juniors (6-15) $7
Kids 6 & Under FREE
Family Pass (2 Adults, 3 Jrs) $35

More information about All American Speedway can be found at www.AllAmericanSpeedway.com. The Placer County Fairgrounds administration office is open for advance ticket sales Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm at 800 All America City Blvd. Roseville, CA. 95678, or contact the office at (916) 786-2025.

8-11-11 2011 Vendor's Cup VRA Race on August 27th
Source Cliff Morgan
Ventura Raceway

Ventura Raceway is pleased to announce a very special event to open the last half of our season, when we return to racing action on Saturday night August 27. On that night we will hold the first "Vendor's Cup" Race for VRA Sprint Cars. The race will feature a 40 lap main event and a special winner's purse that currently stands at $7,100+. The purse amount for the winner can continue to grow as more vendors add their dollars to the current amount. A listing of vendors currently supporting this event is located on the Ventura Raceway webpage. Any vendors wishing to add to this special event purse can do so by contacting Julianne at the raceway office.

This race will feature VRA 360 Sprint Cars in a full program of heats, semi main events and the 40 lap Vendor's Cup Main Event. It is a regularly scheduled event with regular VRA points being given. Any driver or team is invited to this race, but they must be fully paid VRA members and all cars must be VRA registered and pass all VRA Tech requirements to compete.

As a part of this event two rides will be given away to fans in attendance in Cory Kruseman's two seater sprint car. A drawing will be held to pick the winners. Winners must be at least 16 years of age and in good health. They will also have to wear soft laced shoes, tennis shoes preferred. Any winner under the age of 18 must have a parent in attendance to sign a parental waiver release due to insurance restrictions.

Also racing on this special night will be VRA Midgets, Ford Focus and Junior Focus Midgets, IMCA Modifieds and Go Karts. The night promises to be a spectacular event that all VRA fans need to put on their calendar. All times and gate prices remain the same as our regular events. Pit gate will open at 12:00 Noon and front gates at 3:00PM. Admission prices for this event are $14.00 for adults, $11.00 for juniors, seniors and military with kids 12 and under free. For more information please call Ventura Raceway at (805) 985-5433 Monday through Friday from 8:00 Am to 5:00 PM.




 

8-11-11 USAC/CRA Last Man Standing Dash Returns to Santa Maria Saturday
Source Lance Jennings
Amsoil USAC/CRA

 Back by popular demand, Santa Maria Speedway Promoter Chris Kearns and Rugged Radios of San Luis Obispo have announced the return of the "Last Man Standing Dash" this Saturday with the Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Car Series.

The format for the special $1000 winner-take-all event is simple. The top 4 qualifiers that transfer out of the heat races are eligible to compete. The drivers will pick a pill for their starting position in a 4 car / 4-lap dash. Once completed, the last place finisher is eliminated and there will be a short break for crews to make adjustments. The segment winner will then draw an invert pill for their starting spot.

The 3 remaining cars will battle in a 3-lap shootout. The third place car will be retired and there will be another pit stop break for crews to make changes. The winner of the 3-lap segment will draw another pill for their starting position. The final round will have the two remaining drivers compete in a 2-lap sprint. The winner will claim the $1000 top prize.

Nic Faas of Huntington Beach has won the two previous "Last Man Standing Dashes," with victories coming June 18th at Santa Maria and July 30th at Perris. He will have to contend with a talented roster including 3-time series champion Mike Spencer, Matt Mitchell, "Dynamite" David Cardey, "Super" Rickie Gaunt, "The Ripper" Rip Williams, "Showtime" Danny Sheridan, "The Kruser" Cory Kruseman, and many more.

Local 360 iron-block powered Sprint Cars are welcome to race with USAC/CRA. The 360s can run their local approved tires (all four corners must be Hoosier), but must meet series tech standards and race track muffler rules. The Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Car Series does not have an entry fee or charge for transponders, but drivers must have one-way radios. In addition, the series is offering a bonus to the highest finishing 360 team. To be eligible for the $200 cash award from USAC and 20 gallons of methanol from So-Cal Performance, the owner or driver must have a current USAC membership.

Santa Maria Speedway is located 1/4-mile north of the 101/166 interchange at 1900 Hutton Road in Nipomo, California. Joining the showcase will be the Toste Construction Mini Stocks and Vintage Sprints. The spectator gates will open at 4:00pm, time trials will start at 5:00pm, with racing set begin at "The West Coast's Best Short Track" at 6:00pm. Adult tickets are $20, Senior, Military, and Student tickets (13-17) are $18, Kids tickets (6-12) are $6, and Children’s tickets (5 and under) are FREE. For more event information, visit the track’s website at www.racesantamariaspeedway.com or call (805) 922-2232.

The Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Car Series would like to thank Hoosier Tire, Circle Track Performance, Competition Suspension Inc., DJ Safety, Donovan Engineering, Electro Tech Powder Coating, Extreme Mufflers, Hilborn Fuel Injection, Huntington Beach Glass & Mirror, Keizer Wheels, Rod End Supply, Saldana Racing Products, Sander Engineering, and So-Cal Performance for their support. For more information, visit usacracing.com/cra or follow the series on facebook.





 

8-11-11 Fourth Win of 2011 For The New Racecar Factory Modified Chassis
Source Ron Sutton's Winners Circle
All American Speedway

The wins continue to pile up for the 2011 RaceCar Factory asphalt Modified chassis, assembled by Star Race Cars, with Montreal’s Steve Cote winning the 40 lap feature at All American Speedway on Saturday night. The NASCAR-sanctioned win gives RaceCar Factory four victories in its inaugural 2011 season with Cote running a close second in the season championship as a rookie.

The cars are campaigned by Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle which is focused on achieving their 500th win in 2011, the team’s 35th year of racing. With the win on Saturday, RSWC now has 490 victories in various forms of racing.

These Modified Race Cars are built and setup by the veteran race staff Star Race Cars, a division of Star Racing Supply. For a regional race operation, Star Race Cars has impressive resources to develop top notch race cars. Alongside the highly successful Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle racing team, Star Race Cars has three race Engineers, it’s own brand of on-board data acquisition, suspension test equipment, shock dyno, tire test machines, use of a pull down rig and veteran expertise from Sacramento to Charlotte.

Racing veterans Randy Chastain, Jason Houghtaling, Ron Sutton & Jeff Wennerstrand work from Star Racing Supply’s 16,000 facility, with a full fabrication shop to build race cars from the ground up, do repairs, clips, bodies & any custom modifications. Star Race Cars offers everything from a bare RaceCar Factory chassis all the way to a turnkey Modified, and every part in between.

Not only did Cote drive the #4 Allstar Performance RCF/Star Modified to the win on Saturday, but he won the trophy dash also. His teammate Bobby Runyan, Jr. brought home the #21 K&N Filters RCF/Star Modified fifth. Combined, they have won four Main events, and three Trophy Dashes, in the last five weeks. Runyan runs fifth in the points standings while Cote is second and closing fast on the track championship.

Race team manager Houghtaling calls the drive for 500 wins a motivator for the Modified arm of Ron Sutton’s Winner’s Circle. “We have nine different teams across USAC and NASCAR competing out of the shop and we want that 500th win to come in a RaceCar Factory Modified! We’re working harder than ever for the wins and the championship.”

Star Race Cars, a division of Star Racing Supply, is located in Sacramento, CA, offering chassis, parts, tires, fuel, hardware and custom fabrication for oval track racing. Star Racing Supply can be found on the web at www.StarRacingSupply.com or contacted at (916) 914-1284.



 

8-11-11 Jill Schmidt Grabs First Feature Win as Fans Receive Wild Night at All American Speedway
Source RMG Race Media Group
All American Speedway

All American Speedway hosted the NASCAR Whelen All American Weekly series championship race No. 12 this past weekend giving the fans a wild night of competition in result of the points battle heating up as there is only seven races left with the championship up for grabs. On tap for the night was the NASCAR Late Models 75, Modified 40, Street Stocks and Bombers 35 and joining the series was the Legends of The Pacific 35. Minimal yellows and no red flags brought on nail biting racing excitement for the fans hanging onto their seats at All American Speedway.

First division on schedule was Street Stocks fielding 14 cars No. 08 Mickey Owens swept both practice sessions looking to be the driver to beat. No. 23 Richard Poppert Jr. put his Coors Light machine on top of the charts in qualifying with a fast time of 14.953 seconds. With Mickey Owens, No. 86 Dave Silva, No. 98 Byron Gonzales and No. 50 Chris Lambert the fast Five. Richard Poppert Jr won the first six lap heat race and Byron Gonzales won the second heat race. Start of the 35 lap main event No. 21 Kevin Owens took the early lead for a lap until No. 2 Mel Wilson took over the top spot. On lap four, Dave Silva and Mickey Owens made contact in turn two sending the points leader Owens spinning while No. 19 Dale Didoha got collected in the spin causing a yellow. Owens suffered a flat tire and had his tire changed just in time for the restart. Points Leader Owens would have to battle from the rear of the pack to ensure a solid finish. On lap nine, Chris Lambert took the lead from Wilson and Richard Poppert was battling with the leader for the top spot. As the two drivers battled for first Poppert’s hood had popped off hanging on by one hood pin and was sent to the pits on lap 18. Second in points, Poppert made it out on track just in time to only be down by one lap. With the top two drivers in points suffering bad luck Lambert, third in points, was in the drivers seat and in the lead. On lap 32, Mel Wilson and Byron Gonzales battled for the second position and the two drivers got together in turn four resulting in a yellow. On the restart Mickey Owens, the one hand driving machine had made his way up to second running down the leader Lambert while Poppert was already up to fourth. Chris Lambert went on to win the Street Stock division but was removed in post race tech handing the victory to Mickey Owens followed by Richard Poppert Jr., Dave Silva, Kevin Owens and Byron Gonzales the final five.

Up next was the Legends of The Pacific division fielding 15 cars and No. 22 Jeremy Wood grabbed fast time in qualifying with a time of 15.449 seconds followed by No. 25B James Bickford, No. 05 Robby Czub, No. 74B Luis Tyrrell and No. 21 Jessica Walker the fast five. No. 91 Doug Braddock Jr. grabbed the first heat race win and No. 63 Cody Berger took the second eight lap heat race win. Four drivers, Luis Tyrrell, Jeremy Wood, Robby Czub and James Bickford, made it for the four laps in the trophy dash. Robby Czub took the lead on the start until the Luis Tyrrell machine took over the top spot racing side by side. Luis Tyrrell went on to win the Trophy Dash victory. On the start of the 35 lap main, Cody Berger grabbed the lead for the first five laps until No. 7 Tony Mangini stole the top spot. On lap 12, No. 4 Frankie Marks made the pass on Mangini for the lead. On lap 22, No. 25 Greg Baxter got loose and spun in turn four causing a yellow. Jeremy Wood went on to a 2.053 second victory over the field followed by Robby Czub, Luis Tyrrell, Tony Mangini and James Bickford the top five.

Third up was the Modified division and No. 5 Jason Bamberg swept the practice sessions with his car perfectly tuned. In qualifying, points leader No. 29 Dan Jinkerson posted fastest lap with a fast time of 14.227 seconds just edging out Jason Bamberg in second by .035 seconds. No. 4 Steve Cote third, No. 21 Bobby Runyan fourth and No. 05 Chase Grigsby fifth. In the heat race Bobby Runyan led majority of the race until the unstoppable Jinkerson took the lead to win. Steve Cote, Bobby Runyan, Dan Jinkerson and Jason Bamberg all made it to the trophy dash and Steve Cote captured the trophy dash win. On the start of the 40 lap main event Runyan again took the early lead until Chase Grigsby took over for five laps. On lap nine, No. 3 Don Swartz was sent to the pits for being too loud ending his night watching his division from the sidelines. On the restart, Steve Cote took the advantage and found himself leading the field holding Jinkerson in second. Steve Cote went on to win his third 2011 All American Speedway victory followed by Dan Jinkerson, Jason Bamberg, Chase Grigsby and Bobby Runyan the top five.

Ten Late Models made it out for the 12th championship points race and Rookie No. 88 Dylan Hutchison put his Late Model on top in qualifying with a fast time of 13.823 seconds, out qualifying No. 35 Matt Scott by .031 seconds. No. 22 Brian Keck third, Juan Pitta Fourth and No. 5 Chris Scribner Fifth, No. 8 Jason Romero got Dq’d for being too loud during his qualifying run. Scott, Hutchison, Keck and Pitta made it for the four lap trophy dash and Juan Pitta led all four laps for his trophy dash win. In the 75 lap main event, No. 29 Randy Hedrick started pole from the seven invert and led the first four laps until Chris Scribner took the inside line of turn four and stole the top spot to lead ten laps. Lead change on lap 15 by Juan Pitta and the top three cars, Pitta Scribner and Scott, battled for the top spot. On lap 33, Brian Keck and No. 15 Quintin Crye made contact in turn two sending the No. 15 car spinning causing a yellow. On lap 56, Matt Scott trying to pass Chris Scribner sends Scribner spinning in turn two on a wet track causing another yellow. On lap 68, Jason Romero pushes Pitta out of turn two for the inside line and the lead. Romero went on to win followed by Dylan Hutchison, Juan Pitta, Matt Scott and Chris Scribner the top five.

Last on the night was the wild Bomber division fielding 11 cars and making the return to the Speedway was No. 05 Jill Schmidt. Schmidt put her No. 5 machine on top for qualifying posting fastest lap of 15.850 seconds. Followed by No. 24 Cody Rickard, No. 3 Chris Paulson, No. 52 Matt Camp and No. 77 Erick Ray the fast five. Chris Paulson won the first six lap heat race and No. 23 Eric Bocksberger won the second heat race. Erick Ray, Chris Paulson, No. 04 Dana Kelly and Eric Bocksberger made it into the trophy dash. Dana Kelly was still looking for her first dash win as she put her purple machine out front early and held off Erick Ray in second capturing her first ever Trophy Dash victory. In the 35 lap main event, No. 50 Richard Perez grabbed the early lead to lead 19 laps. On lap 20, Chris Paulson made the pass for the lead, but Perez quickly took it back with an impressive three wide pass in turn two. On lap 23, Dana Kelly got loose in turn two spinning the 04 machine. On lap 25, both Richard Perez and Chris Paulson were getting anxious for the top spot rubbing fenders sending the 50 machine spinning on the back stretch ending his night. On the restart, Erick Ray and No. 63 Joe Rhodes were racing side by side for the lead when Rhodes, spinning in turn four, handed the lead to Erick Ray. On lap 32, Matt Camp tried to give Erick Ray a bump and run sending both cars spinning in turn three causing a yellow. The two cars were stuck nose to tail as the two drivers tried to get untangled. The altercation that followed resulted in both racers getting disqualified and sent home for the remainder of the season. Jill Schmidt went on to win her first ever main event victory followed by Cody Rickard, Chris Paulson, Eric Bocksberger and Dana Kelly the final five.

This will conclude the action filled Championship Points race No. 12 and the Weekly NASCAR Championship Points Race No. 13 will return to All American Speedway this Saturday, August 13th featuring Modfieds 40, Street Stocks and Bombers 35 and joining the championship series will be the WSRA Mini Cups. More information about All American Speedway can be found at www.AllAmericanSpeedway.com. The Placer County Fairgrounds administration office is open for advance ticket sales Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm at 800 All America City Blvd. Roseville, CA. 95678, or contact the office at (916) 786-2025.






 

8-11-11 Team Kelly Racing Living The Dream- Racing
Source RMG Race Media Group
All American Speedway

Citrus Heights residents Dana, 48, and Mike Kelly, 45, have shared racing the No. 04 Purple and Green Bomber at All American Speedway for the past seven years. The one important thing about a bomber is that you race with a passenger, but both Mike and Dana are drivers with their own passengers. The two drivers race as a team sharing the championship points. Team Kelly Racing is the only husband and wife team that drives the same car, others are just one driver and a passenger never swapping roles or others have their own cars.

Since Dana Kelly was the young age of three she has always loved racing. Dana’s father would ask her what she wanted to be when she grew up and young Dana would respond with “marry a race car driver.” Dana and her father were fans at heart and attended races at All American Speedway since the early 1970’s and a handful of races at Sears Point, Sonoma. Family financial circumstances prevented Dana from racing at an early age. As Dana grew older she lost sight of her racing dreams and goals by getting involved in a drug and alcohol addiction. When Dana overcame her troubles and was clean and sober in 1994, she knew her life passion of racing was still possible if she continued to stay on the right path. Dana and Mike met in 2000 and encouraged Mike to pursue her dream with her. Mike supported Dana’s dream by buying a bomber.

Dana won most improved driver in 2008 and finally took home a trophy dash win August 9 of this year. Dana has come close many times to winning at All American Speedway with her best main event finish a third place finish. Mike has won a total of seven heat races, four trophy dashes and five main events. Mike has also captured over a dozen fast qualifiers and Dana has set fast time once. The Team has no track records or championships, however they have never run for points, only for the excitement of the sport. Although in 2009, they led in championship points for half the season until they had what they called the “points lead curse” and started to have car problems ending up 5th in points for that year. The two of them were awarded sportspersons of the year in 2006 as the only team to ever win the title.

Team Kelly Racing consists of Mike Kelly as one driver and his fellow passenger, lifelong friend, Donnie Herzog. However this year Donnie has back problems and can’t be a passenger so Dana has stepped in the car with Mike. Dana Kelly is the driver with passenger friend James Coleman. James has a heart and passion for racing and gets his racing excitement by being Dana’s passenger. The race car is stored at the race shop of their home’s 2 car garage and it only take the crew about 12 minutes to load the car the morning of race day. Mike doesn’t have any quirks before he races, Dana does by wearing a certain clothing item that she wore when she made an A main and wearing a certain nail polish that she wore when she had her best finish. Another quirk is that both will eat a tuna or egg salad sandwich for its brain energy food to help them focus and drive smart for the main events. Team Kelly Racing racing goals for 2011 which are to have fun and overcome the close but no cigar curse and win a race.

“It’s a fun division because we can have passengers. The camaraderie is so much fun. Most of all it is an affordable yet competitive division,” stated Dana. “We love racing at All American Speedway and it’s close and convenient.”

Dana, a Chemical Dependency Counselor at Kaiser, and Mike, a Commercial and Residential Painter, work full time during the week and come out to All American Speedway to have fun and compete in their purple and green bomber together. Team Kelly Racing would like to thank all of their fans and fellow racers who are willing to help them when they need it. A special thanks to Mickey Owens and Motor Machine and All American Speedway.

 

8-9-11 On Fan Appreciation Night, Fans Poured Through the Gates to Catch a Glimpse at the Non-Stop Action
Source David Holman
Stockton 99 Speeway

 
On Saturday, August 6th, the NASCAR Whelen All American Racing Series was back in action on Fan Appreciation Night, which featured the Western Late Models in Twins 50’s, Super Stocks, Grand American Modifieds, Bombers and Basically-4- Cylinders. Coming down the backstretch on year number three at the New Stockton 99 Speedway, the intensity in each Division was thick on this great night of racing and not much was left on the track to mull over. Fortunately, on a night dedicated to them, the 1500 fans in the stands were the happy recipients of all the grandeur.

The Basically-4-Cylinders hit the hot asphalt to get the program underway, and to no one’s surprise, the Points Leader from Manteca, Joseph Reichmuth (6) showed the way, once again, in dominating fashion as he brought home his seventh Big Trophy of the year.

With the invert straight-up off the Heat Races, and Reichmuth winning the first Heat, he would get this one going from P1 on the grid with third generation driver from Manteca, Firecracker Matt Anderson (5) flanking him to the right. When the first green flag flapped in the humid afternoon sky, Reichmuth wasted no time in determining this race had his name written all over it as he grabbed a gear coming off turn four and vaulted the #6 out into that rarified air in front of the field where his strength shone large until lap 6 when Chris Boone, in a brand new #187 machine, grenaded down the backstretch and came to rest in the grass in turn three, which drew an immediate yellow from the flagstand. On the restart, Reichmuth assumed his spot on the territory out front that pretty much has his name stamped on it this Season, and from there, he took it to the house for the seventh time this year in a wire to wire romp. French Camp’s Mark Jacke (747) drove his little four-wheeled rocket onto the podium in another extremely impressive second place finish. Anderson fell back, if only slightly, but still managed another consistent finish on the podium in third. Dave Kong (9) of Stockton had his best finish of the year in fourth while, speaking of consistency, Stockton’s Kelle Bobbitt (61) rounded out the top five.

In the Bomber Division, controversy abound, but in the end, there would be a first-time winner who came in the form of Stockton’s Bobby Simpson (819T). Nonetheless, a win is a win is a win.

Tyler Guzman (93x) of Ceres grabbed the pole in this one with Points Leader Jeremy Tucker (351) of Stockton already nibbling at the rightside numbers of the young Guzman, eagerly waiting the green flag. And, with the green flying high above the sticky/hot surface, Tucker sniffed out the fresh air up front just as he often does, but this time around he had some hungry company in the #93x who aggressively began to chew away at the back bumper of Tucker until lap 14 when Guzman took control of the situation and dove beneath the #351 to claim the lead for himself. Unfortunately, that lead would be short-lived, when on lap 16, Stockton’s Mike Massone (007) went spinning low in turn one, but of course, with a little help and the yellow flag went flying for the first time on the night. On the ensuing restart, Tucker got the great jump and took complete command of that pristine property out front and from that point he would go unchallenged to the checkers for what appeared to be his fifth win of the year. However, and unfortunately, during post-race discussions, Tucker was flagged for unnecessary roughness on Massone and was penalized accordingly, which put him back to fifth, one spot behind Massone and handed the win over to Simpson who gratefully accepted his new-found inheritance. Guzman held on to finish a very solid second with Stockton’s Travis Tucker, in the borrowed #028, finishing on the podium in third.

Twin #1 in the Western Late Models produced some great racing, but the outcome was a very common theme this year with the Points Leader and second generation driver from Modesto, Jeff Belletto (12x), striking gold for the fifth time on the Season.

With the invert rendered null and void, this one started straight-up off qualifying, which put Belletto on pole and young second generation driver from Stockton, Colby Potts (12) high and outside and ready to go at the drop of the green. But, as has happened so often this year, Belletto had the heavier right foot to the green and beat the field down into turn one for the lead where he would enjoy that addictive clean air for the next ten circuits until lap 11 when Atwater’s Carlos Vieira (51) and Tracy’s second generation driver David Philpott (50) made contact, sending Philpott in a spin low in turn two and bringing with him the first yellow of the race. Of course, both cars were sent to take up their new residence at the tail-end of the longest line. On the lap 11 restart, Belletto took up where he left off out front, but not without the constant shadowing of his every move by third generation driver Justin Philpott (05), also of Tracy. Philpott gave it all he had, but on this night, Belletto would prove too strong as he took it to the checkers for the flag to flag Victory, his fifth this Season. The young Philpott, in his first appearance in several weeks, held on to a solid second place finish. Seaside’s Dave Byrd (78), and the closest pursuer to Belletto in the Points Battle, managed another strong run to the podium in third. C. Potts fell off just a bit, but still brought her home in fourth while his dad, Greg Potts (55X), also of Stockton, worked his way up from deep on the starting grid, in a beautiful display of talent, to round out the top five. For the Trevor Schlundt fans out there: after slowing on lap 33 he pulled into the pits when flames ignited beneath his car. Trevor, while visibly shaken, was checked at the Infield Care Center and released.

The Grand American Modifieds were back in action after a couple weeks off, but that didn’t deter the mindset of the Points Leader from Turlock, Wes Miller (57), not even slightly as the Superstar showed the way to his fourth win of the year on a night he appeared unbeatable. And, of course, he was.

Escalon’s Victor Machado (73) inherited the pole with Santa Rosa’s Andy Vanderveer (49) sharing the front row to the right to get this one underway. No sooner had Machado grabbed the lead than did the race come to an immediate halt when, on lap 1, Vanderveer slid hard into the peninsula at the turn three exit gate which brought the red flag waving. On the restart, Machado was, however, allowed to enjoy the scenery out front for a solitary lap because on lap 3, Wes Miller’s passion came to a boil as he stuck his nose beneath the #73 and laid claim to that much-coveted real estate out front where, despite having to endure three more caution periods, he would prove, once again, why he is considered one of the elite drivers in the Modified Division by taking it the rest of the way to the glory land in unstoppable fashion to pick up his fourth Victory of the year. Lincoln’s Nick Lyons (11X), starting mid-pack on the grid, ran a beautiful race of his own, crossing the stripe in second place. Rick Andersen (11A) of Citrus Heights, starting even deeper on the grid, masterfully worked his way through some of the carnage to finish on the podium in third. Ryan Stepps (98) of Oakdale had his best finish of the year in fourth while Machado fell off the pace a bit, but still managed a fifth place finish.
In the Super Stock Division, the cars are so equal, anyone can win on any given week, and tonight the Division crowned a first-time winner who came in the form of second generation driver from Lodi, “The Kid” Robbie Knittel (03).

Jason Aguirre (45) of Atwater and Mike Graham (93) of Hughson grabbed front row honors and paced the field around to greet the green to get this one underway. Aguirre got the great jump as he often does, which allowed him to nab the holeshot going off into turn one where he would enjoy the fresh breeze in his face over the next five laps until lap 6 when Knittel went off on a tangent in turn two, which brought with it that certain yellow flag breaking the silence of the night sky. On the lap 6 restart, Graham got to the gas and inch quicker than the pack as he rode off into the lead where he began to display his strength, only to be slowed on lap 15 when Points Leader Garland Tyler (73) of Modesto and the young Matt Wendt (1) of Lodi made apparent contact and both cars came to rest against the outside wall between turns one and two and, of course, that wretched yellow flag went flying once again. On the restart, while Graham assumed the lead, it would be short-lived when, on lap 17, 2010 Champ Sammy Solari (79) from parts unknown, drove beneath the #93 and into the breathable air out front. Once there, he flourished in the warm, but clean atmosphere until lap 25 when 2010 WLM Champ Chad Holman (75), who had worked his way through the field from P7 on the starting grid, took too large a bite out of the rear bumper of Solari’s hotrod going down into turn one, which sent the #79 spinning up the track and bringing with it the final yellow of the race. Solari and Holman both took up new residence at the back of the pack, which handed the lead over to Knittel who had made an amazing recovery after the earlier mishap. Knittel graciously accepted his new-found wealth and to show his gratitude, he took it to the field as he crossed beneath the checkers for his first-ever win in the Division, and a very popular one at that. Graham had to settle for what was most likely a disappointing second, but not so disappointing considering where he is in the Points Battle. Aguirre slipped back, if only slightly, to finish on the podium in third. Tyler, after the earlier altercation, made an astounding recovery in finishing fourth with Solari working his magic back to fifth.

In the Western Late Model Twin #2, the story began much differently than the first Twin, but there was a twist in the plot, and in the end, Points Leader Jeff Belletto would be sitting in Victory Lane for the second time on this night by winning his sixth of the year.

Due to a six invert off Twin #1, Lodi’s Michael Wendt (2) shared the front row with Stockton’s Greg Potts (55X) to head the field around to the green to get this one up to speed. Wendt always gets a great start, so it was no surprise to see the #2 beat the field down into turn one and come out on the other side with the lead. Unfortunately for Wendt, his lead would not last long when, on lap 3, G. Potts made contact with Seaside’s Dave Byrd (78) bringing out the first caution of the race. The incident brought Byrd’s night to an abrupt end which created major implications for the driver second in points. And, on the ensuing restart, Jeff Belletto wrestled the lead away from Wendt who had no choice but to surrender the position to the overpowering #12 car. Once out front, Belletto began to chew away at the laps until there was nothing left to race for but second place. And, no doubt, that’s where the major battle was waged between Atwater’s Carlos Vieira (51) and Wendt as they swapped that almost-precious real estate behind the leader no less than six times until lap 29 when Vieira took hold of the reign for the final time and rode it out to the checkers to finish a Season-high second place. Tracy’s second generation driver and past Multi-Track Champ, David Philpott (50), came from very deep on the starting grid to finish on the podium in a very impressive third place run. Modesto’s Mike Beeler (6), another deep starter, worked his way through the pack to capture his ninth top-five of the year by finishing fourth. Trevor Schlundt (28) of Clovis, after near-catastrophe in the first race, pulled off a miraculous return starting from the back to finish fifth.

Next Saturday, August 13th, the NASCAR Whelen All American Racing Series rolls back onto the high banks in Race & Ride For Autism with the Western Late Models in 100 Laps of fast and furious action. Also on the ticket for the Event will be the Vintage Hard Tops, Ford Focus Midgets, Basically-4-Cylinders and the Enduro Series Race #3.

The New Stockton 99 Speedway is located at 4105 N. Wilson Way, ¼-mile west of Highway 99. For more information on tickets and times, please contact the Speedway Office at (209)466-9999 or visit their Website at www.stockton99.com.





 

8-9-11 Hutchison Ties Career Best NASCAR Late Model Finish at Roseville
All American Speedway

After grabbing fast-time honors, 16 year-old NASCAR Late Model rookie Dylan Hutchison drove his #88 Karp Capital Management / Johnnie Walker Performance Chevrolet to a second place finish in Saturday night’s 75 lap feature at All American Speedway. The runner-up finish ties Hutchison’s career best effort of second in the first 50 lap feature on May 21st.

The 2009 WSRA Baby Grand champion has continued to improve throughout the 2011 season after starting his year in the prestigious TOYOTA All-Star Showdown at TOYOTA Speedway in Irwindale. Hutchison leads all rookies in the points standings at the All American Speedway, a one-third mile asphalt oval outside Sacramento.

Hutchison started off the evening with a strong 13.823 second lap in qualifying to grab his first career NASCAR fast-time. Hutchison had some work to do in the 75 lap main event as the invert placed him seventh on the grid.

After battling hard and finding himself mired from between sixth and eighth place, Hutchison took advantage of a lap 33 caution to go the pits for adjustments. Crew Chief Mark Romero made some setup changes on the car and Hutchison went back to work.

Hutchison quickly navigated the field on the restart, cracking the top-five on lap 42. He then shot into third on lap 57. Battling with points leader Matt Scott, Hutchison finally took third for good on lap 63.

Hutchison ran close to the leaders and finally seized second place when the top-two tangled. Hutchison was able to defend second place to the finish in a thrilling performance.

“I’m really excited about my first Late Model fast-time and the strong second place finish,” Hutchison said. “I cannot thank my entire crew enough for their hard work! The adjustments that Mark made on this car were perfect.”

Hutchison’s team will get a week off before the division returns to action on August 20. Hutchison finds himself tied for fourth in the track points after Saturday’s race.

Race fans can learn more about Dylan Hutchison Racing at www.dylanhutchison.com or by visiting the team on Facebook at keywords “Dylan Hutchison Racing”.

Dylan Hutchison Racing thanks sponsors: Johnnie Walker Performance Center, Karp Capital Management, Rex Hutchison Racing Engines, All Valley Tow & Transport, GM Construction & Developers, Allen’s Cabinet & Fixtures, PJ’s Auto Body, Done by Don, JW Sweet Rides, Metal Jeans, Amsoil, and Race Media Group.




 

8-9-11 BMR Five Strong at Montana
Source Kaye Reshaw
NASCAR K&N

Bill McAnally Racing will field three additional entries for the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West Toyota/TTC “150” at Montana Raceway Park.

Driving the No 12 TTC/Kalispell Toyota - Toyota Camry will be the two-time Daytona 500 Champion Michael Waltrip. He knows he’ll have a chance for victory. He’s finished in the top five three times in his five West races. Waltrip’s most recent start in the West Series was with BMR at Phoenix International Raceway last November where he finished in second. Waltrip has one win series win, at Pikes Peak International Raceway in Fountain, Colo., in 1997. He is the winner of two Daytona 500s (2001 & 2003), co-owner of Michael Waltrip Racing and a television commentator for Speed’s coverage of the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series.

Driving the No. 24 Cabinets by Hayley Toyota Camry will be Cameron Hayley. Hayley, who turned 15 last month, is from Calgary, Alberta, Canada. He has raced go-karts, Baby Grand stock cars, Legends race cars and most recently late model stock cars. This will be his NASCAR K&N Pro Series West debut. He is slated to drive in the West Series for the remainder of the season. His aspirations are to climb the NASCAR ladder and one day pilot a car in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.

Driving the No. 96 Ben Kennedy Racing/BMR Toyota Camry will be Ben Kennedy. His racing roots go back three generations, and now 18-year-old Ben Kennedy is making his own mark in the sport that’s virtually synonymous with his grandfather and great-grandfather’s name – France. Kennedy, the great-grandson of NASCAR founder Bill France, Sr. and son of International Speedway Corporation CEO Lesa France Kennedy, is already a champion in the Pro-Truck class at Orlando Speed World and New Smyrna Speedway. This will be only his second start in the NKNPS West. He recently finished 8th at Colorado National Speedway.

Rounding out the five is the three-time NKNPS West Champions, Eric Holmes piloting the No. 20 NAPA AUTO PARTS Toyota Camry and three-time Most Popular Driver in the NKNPS West Moses Smith piloting the No. 16 Hasa Pool Products/NAPA Filters Toyota Camry.

The “Rumble in the Rockies” will kick off with a Toyota Fan Fest beginning at 5 pm at the track. The broadcast of the Montana race will be on Thursday September 1st at the 6 pm ET. Please check your local listings.

The race at Montana Raceway Park is expected to be a sell-out. Please visit their website at www.montanaracewaypark.com for ticket information and directions to the speedway.

For more information on Bill McAnally Racing and our race partners, please visit our website at www.billmcanallyracing.com Bill McAnally Racing is now on Facebook. Become a fan and stay up to date with the latest happenings with your favorite race teams. Also follow the team on BMR_NASCAR on Twitter.



 

8-9-11 Mike Spencer Leads USAC/CRA to Santa Maria Saturday
Source Lance jennings
Amsoil USAC/CRA

Temecula's Mike Spencer will lead a talented roster of drivers when the Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Car Series invades Chris Kearns' Santa Maria Speedway. The Saturday, August 13th event, will be the last visit of the year for the traditional 410 sprints at the 1/3-mile facility, where Cory Kruseman scored the June 18th victory. Joining the showcase will be the Toste Construction Mini Stocks and Vintage Sprints. The spectator gates will open at 4:00pm, time trials will start at 5:00pm, with racing set begin at "The West' Coast's Best Short Track" at 6:00pm.

In addition to the regular program for the USAC/CRA Sprints, track promoter Chris Kearns and Rugged Radios of San Luis Obispo have announced the return of the "Last Man Standing Trophy Dash." The format for the special $1000 winner-take-all event is simple. The top 4 qualifiers that transfer out of the heat races are eligible to compete. The drivers will pick a pill for their starting position in a 4 car / 4-lap dash. Once completed, the last place finisher is eliminated and the 3 remaining cars battle in a 3-lap shootout. The third place car will be retired and the last round will have the two remaining drivers compete in a 2-lap sprint. The winner will claim the $1000 top prize.

Piloting Ron Chaffin's famed #50 Madera Produce / Grubstake Mini Storage Maxim, Mike Spencer scored his fifth victory of the season at the July 30th "Kindoll Classic" at Perris. Heading into Saturday's event, the 3-time defending champion holds a twenty-three point advantage over the competition with three Sander Engineering Fast Time Awards, three heat race victories, one Competition Suspension Inc. Semi-Main win, six top-10 finishes, and 114 feature laps led to his credit. Spencer will be looking to continue his championship march with the Santa Maria 30-lap feature win.

With his runner-up finish at Perris, Nic Faas of Huntington Beach is now second in the point chase. Driving Mark Alexander's #4 Scott Sales Company / VP Racing Fuels Spike, Faas has won the two previous "Last Man Standing Dashes" at Santa Maria and Perris. To date, the former USAC Western Midget Series Champion has one Sander Engineering Fast Time Award, four heat race victories, one Keizer Wheels Hard Charger Award, and seven top-10 finishes on the year. This Saturday, Faas will have his eyes set on his first main event win of the season.

Sitting third in the championship points is Yorba Linda's Matt Mitchell. Piloting the J.W. Mitchell Motorsports' #37 Mancha Realtors / Sierra Springs Maxim, the Perris "Salute to Indy" winner scored eleventh in the "Kindoll Classic." Now thirty-six points behind Spencer, Mitchell has four heat race victories, seven top-10 finishes, and led twenty-six feature laps in 2011. The USAC Western Midget Series graduate will be looking to add Saturday's feature at Santa Maria to his resume.

Austin Williams of Yorba Linda has moved into fourth in the point standings. Driving Jack Jory's #2 Viper backed by the John Jory Corporation and AMA Plastics, Williams claimed fourth in the Perris "Kindoll Classic." As of the writing, the 2009 Rookie of the Year has one heat race victory, one Keizer Wheel Hard Charger Award, and six top-10 finishes to his credit. The young driver has been battling with the front runners and is getting closer to his first series victory.

Visalia's Greg Bragg sits fifth in the standings. Driving Tom and Laurie Sertich's #92 Huntington Beach Glass & Mirror / Pacific Business Machine Buckley, Bragg was ninth at the July 30th "Kindoll Classic." To date, the 3-Time California Lightning Sprint Champion has two heat race victories, two Keizer Wheels Hard Charger Awards, seven top-10 finishes, and led seven main event laps on the year. It is reported that the Moose Racing entry will miss Saturday's show to re-group after a crash hurt the team's inventory of equipment.

Among the other top contenders expected to be in action are Yorba Linda's Cody and "The Ripper" Rip Williams, Riverside's "Dynamite" David Cardey, "Super" Rickie Gaunt of Torrance, Norco's Ronnie Gardner, "Showtime" Danny Sheridan of Santa Maria, Visalia's Richard and Jace VanderWeerd, "The Kruser" Cory Kruseman of Ventura, and many more.

Local 360 iron-block powered Sprint Cars are welcome to race with USAC/CRA. The 360s can run their local approved tires (all four corners must be Hoosier), but must meet series tech standards and race track muffler rules. The Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Car Series does not have an entry fee or charge for transponders, but drivers must have one-way radios. In addition, the series is offering a bonus to the highest finishing 360 team. To be eligible for the $200 cash award from USAC and 20 gallons of methanol from So-Cal Performance, the owner or driver must have a current USAC membership.

Santa Maria Speedway is located 1/4-mile north of the 101/166 interchange at 1900 Hutton Road in Nipomo, California. Adult tickets are $20, Senior, Military, and Student tickets (13-17) are $18, Kids tickets (6-12) are $6, and Children’s tickets (5 and under) are FREE. For more event information, visit the track’s website at www.racesantamariaspeedway.com or call (805) 922-2232.

The Amsoil USAC/CRA Sprint Car Series would like to thank Hoosier Tire, Circle Track Performance, Competition Suspension Inc., DJ Safety, Donovan Engineering, Electro Tech Powder Coating, Extreme Mufflers, Hilborn Fuel Injection, Huntington Beach Glass & Mirror, Keizer Wheels, Rod End Supply, Saldana Racing Products, Sander Engineering, and So-Cal Performance for their support. For more information, visit usacracing.com/cra or follow the series on facebook.