FREE-TO-THE-PUBLIC PRACTICE SET FOR MARCH 31 AT GRANDVIEW SAIL PANELS OPTIONAL ON SPORTSMAN UNTIL MAY 1
 
BECHTELSVILLE, PA January 28, 2012 . . . Variety may be the keynote word for racing at Grandview Speedway in 2012.

The recently released schedule of events, kicking off with a free-to-the-public practice session at noon on Saturday, March 31st, will offer a variety of different types of motorsports as the 50th anniversary season goes on.

The practice session is expected to attract everything from Modifieds to Enduro cars.

The NASCAR 358 Modifieds, long the main Saturday night attraction at the NASCAR sanctioned one-third-mile, clay banked oval, will be back as the Saturday night primary attraction. And the Late Models, a long time popular part of racing at Grandview, will continue to be a regular Saturday night attraction.

New this year is the addition of the Sportsman class of competition. Specs will be based closely to those used at other area tracks. To help fans identify the Sportsman race cars that closely resemble the 358 Modifieds the Sportsman will be allowed to run sail panels. This will be optional until May 1 when sail panels will become mandatory.

The sail panels must be 65 inches from the ground to the top of the panel and the back edge of the sail panel extends no farther than the edge of rear spoiler.

There will be no sail panels on the NASCAR 358 Modifieds.

Questions relating to the Sportsman can be addressed to Harvey Endslinger at groundhog43@comcast.net or telephone 570.617.5816.

 It has also been announced that a driver will not be able to run more than one division on any race night.
 
The chase for the point titles will kick off on Saturday, April 7th at 7 p.m. with 358 Modifieds, Late Models and Sportsman stock cars. Adult admission for the regular shows will be just $15 while young people under 12 will be admitted free for the regular events.
 
All three regular divisions will have their own point fund.
 
Everyone entering the pits will be required to have a NASCAR license with the primary division drivers (Modifieds) paying $195 for a 2012 license while all others will pay $90. NASCAR license applications are available at the various mall shows that the track is participating in or telephone (610)754.7688.
 
Each division champion will receive a custom created ring at the annual awards banquet at the end of the season in addition to the point money.
 
Each championship winning driver in Modifieds, Late Models and Sportsman will be entitled to free pit admission for the next season.
 
The 2012 NASCAR 358 Modified champion and a guest will be part of the 50th Anniversary Reunion Cruise (nine days departing Bayonne, NJ on November 24th). 2011 champion Jeff Strunk and his guest will be part of the cruise. More details on being a part of this final championship cruise, already more than 80 people signed on, can be had from Marilyn Saxton at 215.752.2392.
 
The complete schedule of events for 2012 can be found at www.grandviewspeedway.com. Fans and racers will see that the schedule includes a wide variety of racing including, in addition to modifieds, late models and sportsman, the 23rd season of Thunder on the Hill events, the first season of Blast from the Past Vintage cars, NEETS Enduros, and the Small Car Series featuring 270 and 600cc micro sprints, 600 Modifieds and Slingshots.
 
Topping the 50th anniversary season is the BPG Racing Freedom 76 for Modifieds on September 15th paying an astounding $50,000 to win and the Forrest Rogers Memorial presented by Pioneer Pole Buildings on August 11th, a 50 lapper for Modifieds, paying $20,000 to win for a track regular and $10,000 to win for a track visitor.

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Mercer Raceway Park Crowns Champions, Announces Plans for 2012

Mercer, PA (January 22, 2012): Mercer Raceway Park officially closed the books on the 2011 season with its gala banquet and awards ceremonies held at the Normandy Banquet Center, in Hermitage. In addition, speedway management made several improtant announcements for the 2012 racing season.
 
Receiving top honors were Bob Felmlee (Luxaire Heating and Cooling Sprint Cars), Guy Griffin (Ti22 Performance Outlaw Sprint Warriors), Jimmy Holden (Approved Toilet Rentals 358 Modifieds), Rusty Moore (Precise Racing Products Stock Cars), Darin Gallagher (Big Dog R/C Center Modified Lites), and Pete Blazak (Big Daddy's Speed Center Mini Stocks).
 
Felmlee, of Franklin, claimed his second straight title in the Sprint Car division, topping another veteran, Rod George, of Kittanning, by seventeen points. Behind them, however, three younger pilots showed that the future of Sprint Car racing at the Park will be exciting for many years to come. Brandon Spithaler, of Evans City, burst onto the scene with his first win in the early part of the 2011 season, and the momentum carried him to third place in the standings. Finishing fourth and fifth were a pair of third-generation drivers. Adam "Bomb" Kekich, who also was named the track's Rookie of the Year, led Brandon "the Wheelman" Matus in the final tally.
 
Rounding out the top ten in the Luxaire Heating and Cooling Sprint Cars were Brent Matus, Scott Priester, Chris Best, Eric Williams, and Gail Ruth, Jr.
 
The 2011 season was the debut of the track's other Sprint Car class, the Ti22 Performance Outlaw Sprint Warriors. Guy Griffin, of Greenville, came out on top, the second time in his long career that he was a champion at Mercer Raceway Park. Previously, Griffin topped the track's Modified class. His protege, Justin Whitesell, of Austintown, OH, ranked second, while Dennis Wagner, of Pulaski, finished third. Fourth place went to Michael Bauer, a high school student from Clarion, and fifth was Jim Morris, of Fowler, OH.
 
Adam Anderson, Jacob Lagestee, Mike Lutz, Harold Braden, Jr., and Jeff Taylor were also recognized for their accomplishments during the 2011 season.
 
Jimmy Holden also claimed his second consecutive title in the Approved Toilet Rentals 358 Modifieds. The driver from Tiona finished 29 points ahead of his rival, Frank Guidace, of Mercer, but the competition between them all season long was much closer than the final margin would suggest. It seemed as though they traded the top spot on a weekly basis, and the championship came down to the final race of the year. Third was another Mercer driver, Eric Gabany, who logged two outstanding third-place runs when the Big Block Modifieds came to town. Fourth was Matt Reeher, while Kyle Fink completed the top five.
 
Positions six through ten went to Rick Hall, Dustin Martin, Ron Eperthener, Lonny Riggs, and Kevin Green.
 
Trusty Rusty Moore, of New Castle, dominated the Precise Racing Products Stock Cars, despite increasing competition as the year progressed. For his accomplishment, Moore also received two other awards. One was the track's special achievement award for his record-setting fourteen wins, while the other was the prestigious Cavalcade Award as the top Stock Car pilot in the region. Russell Byler, of New Wilmington, and Bob McCann, also of New Castle, were second and third, respectively. Darrin Hyde and Brandon Johnston, completed the top five.
 
Marty Warren, Terry Wheeler, Bryan Wagner, Anthony Bruno a/k/a Tony Spaghetti, and Andy Thompson ranked sixth through tenth in the resurgent class.
 
Young Darin Gallagher, of Buler, took top honors for the first time in his brief career in the Big Dog R/C Center Modified Lites. Finishing second was Tom Line, of Apollo, while Cody Bova, of Struthers, OH, ranked third. Andy Feil and Shane Pfeuffer completed the top five.
 
Kotie Kirkbride, Jacob Bova, Andrew Bruce, Mark Marcucci and Brian Miller completed the top ten in this exciting division.
 
Last but not least, Pete Blazczak of Gibsonia, grabed the crown for the Big Daddy's Speed Center Mini Stock division. Blazczak, who was rebounding from a season-ending injury in 2010, started the season red-hot, but he barely had enough steam to hold off veteran Ed Haylett in the final weeks of the season. Haylett, of Polk, was also named the track's most improved driver. Troy Lehnortt, of Oil City, was the third-place finisher. Michael Thompson and Rudy Troples were fourth and fifth, respectively.
 
Joel Wisser, Mike McConnell, Steve Longwell, Sr. Chase Anthony and Steve Longwell, Jr. came in sixth through tenth in the track's other full-fendered division.
 
After all of the accolades were presented, speedway management announced that five of the six divisional sponsors will be returning for the 2012 season. Joining Luxaire Heating and Cooling, Ti22 Performance, Approved Toilet Rentals, Precise Racing Products and Big Dog R/C Center will be Team USA, the new title sponsor for the Modified Lites.
 
The first event of the 2012 season was also announced. The annual Chiller Thriller will be held on Saturday, March 31. The headline class will be the UFo Late Models. Support divisions will be released at a later date. Non-wing racing will return to Mercer Raceway Park, with both BOSS Sprints and ARDC Midgets getting to run topless. The FASTRAK Late Models and the BRP/Hoosier Tire Modified Tour will be featured, as will the All Star Circuit of Champions Sprint Cars. Watch for an announcement of the full 2012 schedule in the coming weeks.
 
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SPRING SIZZLER SET TO KICK OFF MERRITTVILLE SPEEDWAY’S 61st SEASON – TENTATIVE SCHEDULE RELEASED

For Immediate Release from Jim Irvine Merrittville Speedway Public Relations

Thorold, Ontario (January 17, 2012) - With the East Bay Winternationals and the 41st Annual UNOH DIRTcar Nationals presented by Summit Equipment just around the corner … that can only mean one thing – the local racing scene is starting to get up to speed!

At the recent Driver Meetings at the Grantham Lions Club for all the Thorold facility’s Lucas Oil Weekly Racing Series Divisions, Merrittville Speedway Officials released a Tentative Schedule that has the 2012 Spring Sizzler opening the 61st Anniversary Season is less than three months.

Saturday April 28th’s Spring Sizzler will feature the Bobcat of Hamilton DIRTcar 358 Modifieds in a $2000 to win 50 lap main event, the Original Pizza Logs Sportsman for $700 to win 40 laps and the Hoosier Stocks in a $300 to win 30 lap Duel on the Dirt Big 6 Series Home Track Event. 

 “The Spring Sizzler annually provides an exciting start to the season,” boasted (Merrittville GM) Erica Bicknell-Jones, “with good paying events rewarding our drivers …our race fans are in for some great racing right away after not seeing a live event since the fall.”

Look for visiting race teams to use the Spring Sizzler Events as shake downs for special events coming up quickly in the new schedule.

The Big 6 Series Event for the Hoosier Stocks kicks off the long running challenge against the Pro Stocks from the Brighton Speedway. Open to any Street Stock meeting a Driver’s Home Track rules – the only exception to that is that Hoosier Tires must be run.

The Lucas Oil Weekly Racing Series Championship Chase begins Saturday May 5th with regular point races for all 5 divisions as the J&S Heating and Air Conditioning Modified Lites and Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinders join in after practice sessions the previous week.

“While the final details of the schedule are being finalized,” adds Bicknell-Jones, “once again we are so proud of our weekly line-up … our fans enjoy a great variety of racing every Saturday night … each division will be featured throughout the year long celebration in addition to a variety of special events.”

Blast Entertainment was a huge part of the 2011 Awards Banquet so it’s only fitting that the Stratford based DJ and Lighting Service Company play a role in the Season Opener in the first event of May.

Blasting off as well for each of the Saturday Nights in May is a Student Promotion that allows all Students 18 years of age and younger a Grandstand Admission Ticket for just $5.

The month long deal is set for May 5th in addition to Lococo Wholesale Night Saturday May 12th which features the opening round of the 2012 David Chevrolet King of the Crates Series, The Seaway Mall Rankin Cancer Run Night that features the only visit of the season for the BRP Can Am Late Models in addition to the Stars North Modified Lite Tour and Saturday May 26th’s CAA Niagara that has the opener for the Turn 4 Collision Triple Crown Series and an exhibition from the Tuesday Night Kart Club on the schedule.

Until the schedule is finalized – Race Fans and Race Teams can pencil in further special event dates for the David Chevrolet King of the Crates Series for the Sportsman to be a part of Baron Roofing and Siding’s Night Saturday June 9th and the $1,000 to win Series Finale as part of Saturday August 4th’s Miller’s Auto Recyclers Bring a Friend Night.

Hoosier Stock Big 6 Series Home Track Events will continue Monday May 21st when Zavitz Financial Strategies and Employee Benefits presents the 100 lap 358 Modified Super DIRTcar Series Main Event, returning for the Big Block Modified 100 lap Super DIRTcar Series Bob St. Amand Sr. Memorial Monday August 6th presented by L. St. Amand Enterprises – leading up to the $500 to win Event Friday September 7th helping to kick off the J&S Heating and Air Conditioning International Modified Lite Weekend.

Incidentally, 2012 sees the 40th running of the Civic Holiday Monday 100 lap Event that now honors the former Modified Points Champ, Pit Steward and Wall of Famer Bob St. Amand Senior as the extravaganza was first contested in 1972.

From there – the 2012 Duel on the Dirt Big 6 Series concludes with Combined Events at Merrittville Saturday September 8th with a 50 lap $1,000 to win Event followed by the same event at Brighton Speedway with the date to be announced shortly,

Merrittville Speedway’s Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinders can look forward to the return of the Triple Crown once again with dates set for CAA Niagara Night Saturday May 26th, Saturday July 21st’s Semenuk’s Esso and Archer Truck Services Night and concluding on Saturday August 18th as part of Avondale Food Stores Best Appearing Dog Contest Night.

With some 4 months to go until the first Grantham Lions Ironman Enduro Qualifier accelerated by Niagara – part of Monday May 21st’s Zavitz Financial Night – the mild weather throughout the fall should have cars all ready to go right now. Two other Qualifiers are set for Saturday June 30th’s Boltworks’ Canada Day 2012 Celebration Saturday June 30th and Saturday August 4th’s Miller Auto Recycling Night.

Sprint Car Fans should also make note of June 30th’s Event as the 2nd Annual Gary Cunningham Memorial will see the only Sprint Car Event of the season when the Lucas Oil Empire Super Sprints pay their only visit.  In addition to the Sprint Cars, 358 Modifieds and Hoosier Stocks on the final Saturday of June – Race Fans can feast on $1.00 Piller’s Hot Dogs all night in addition to a Firemaster Productions FIRE WORKS DISPLAY!

A traditional favorites as well sees the Merrittville Speedway Reunion Committee planning the Lucas Oil Nostalgia Night that features the L. St. Amand Enterprises Wall of Fame Inductions and the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 50 Jerry Winger Memorial set for Saturday July 14th.  “Plans are well underway for what looks to be quite an event,” anticipates Reunion Committee Chairman Rick Kavanagh, “our former drivers and alumni look forward each year to catch up and reminisce with their friends … if there are any individuals that would like to volunteer … we always appreciate it.”

The J&S Heating and Air Conditioning Modified Lites will play host to several series events including the Stars North Tour as part of Saturday May 19th’s Seaway Mall Night and new for 2012 – the TUSA Mod Lite Series on Saturday June 16th as part of SMS Machine Tools Night.  The Series Events lead up to the annual two day International Modified Lites Championships that finds the J&S Heating and Air Conditioning sponsored division challenged by top Mod Lite Drivers from across Canada and the United States – Friday September 7th and Saturday September 8th.  The Saturday Night portion of the weekend will see the Sportsman Super DIRTcar Series rounding out the final night event of the season. The weekend’s events also feature 4 Cylinder Cars, 4 Cylinder Trucks, Hoosier Stock Big 6 Events and Sunday September 9th’s Grantham Lions Smash-o-Rama 2012 accelerated by Niagara College that features the 100 lap Enduro and the return of the Freestyle Monster Truck Exhibition.

In the weeks leading up to the start of the season … race fans can keep visiting www.merrittvillespeedway.com for all the pre-season news - Drivers making moves from one division to another … former drivers returning to the sport and all the news on the complete 2012 Schedule. Race fans and Race teams alike can follow Merrittville on Face Book (Facebook.com/Merrittville Speedway) and Twitter (Twitter.com/Merrittville).

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NEW STARTING PROCEDURE AND ENGINE COMBINATION AWAIT MERRITTVILLE SPEEDWAY STOCK CAR AND KART RACERS

For Immediate Release from Jim Irvine Merrittville Speedway Public Relations

Thorold, Ontario (January 16) – When the 2012 Spring Sizzler takes to Merrittville Speedway’s D-shaped oval in 3 months – the Thorold DIRTcar facility’s  Lucas Oil Weekly Racing Series Drivers will be starting from an unfamiliar spot.

During the 2012 Driver Meetings held at the Grantham Lions Club Sunday January 15th the new procedures were among changes announced for the 61st consecutive season.

“We tried restarting anywhere from the apex to the Turn 4 cone late last season and we were happy with the results,” revealed (Merrittville Speedway Race Director) Bob St. Amand Jr., “that procedure will now be in place for all divisions. The leader sets the pace and when he or she fires … the field can go and for original starts as soon as the leader hits the cone – anyone can pass.”

St. Amand also revealed new handicapping procedures adding, “depending on the number of cars and heats … even though we will qualify fewer cars - higher handicapped drivers will still start in a similar spot … or better.”

The new Procedural Rules will be reviewed once again in the first Driver’s Meeting of the Season at the track.

The afternoon long sessions that were broken up by division began with Tuesday Night Lucas Oil Weekly Karting Series Drivers learning of new Engine Combinations allowed for the Cassell Manufacturing Senior Flathead Division.

“We’ve got to get Karts out of the garage and back to the track,” challenged (Kart Race Director) Paul Klager, “this division will be for just fun – whether you have an old Briggs Flathead or have to buy an AKRA Blue or Yellow Style Clone or even a Local Option 206 Briggs on Gas – get a Kart on Wheels and join us Tuesday Nights!”

Once the season starts and the competition is measured – weight rules will be set for the different power plants. Klager also touched on rules for each of the other Original Pizza Logs Divisions – the Drummond Home Hardware Novice 1, Tim Phillips Garage KC Auto Parts Novice 2, RCM Racing Equipment Junior 1, Ed McPherson Construction Junior 2, Superior PetroFuels Junior Restricted and Philbrick Farm & Garden Equipment Wilder Racing Engines Senior Animal  Classes.

Merrittville Speedway’s Co-owner and 21 time Bobcat of Hamilton 358 Modified Point Champion Pete Bicknell hosted the portions for the Saturday Night Divisions – the Bobcat of Hamilton 358 Modifieds, Original Pizza Logs Sportsman, Hoosier Stocks, J&S Heating and Air Conditioning Modified Lites and Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinders.

“Randy and Tracey and Nancy and I are committed to the future of Merrittville Speedway,” assured Bicknell, “you may have seen the signs up but anything’s for sale – if it were to ever happen … you can be assured that it will still be a race track!”

Through each division’s segments Rules were discussed and will be finalized and be available at www.merrittvillespeedway.com.

Bicknell stressed through each session the importance of each driver’s participation in the 2012 Season, adding … “whether it’s the David Chevrolet King of the Crates and more importantly the Duel on the Dirt or the Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinder Triple Crown Series – while we welcome other cars or drivers from other divisions – it’s all about our regulars – visiting drivers will not be included in the points.”

Drivers wishing to compete in more than one division must have prior permission and should contact the Speedway Office.

Prior to the start of the Modified Lite Session and introducing incoming New York Dwarf Car Association President Adam Murphy – Bicknell acknowledged and thanked Bruce, Marg and Kellie Mason for their efforts over the years with the organization and for the support their company J&S Heating and Air Conditioning continues to provide.

Murphy echoed his sentiments and reminded those in attendance of the Club’s own meeting later in the day.

Merrittville Speedway Memberships for Stock Cars and Karts are now available from the Speedway’s Winter Office.

2011 Drivers that qualified for Driver VIP Passes have until March 31st to purchase them with 4 Cylinders at $200.00 and Hoosier Stock, Modified Lite, Sportsman and 358 Modified Passes available for $250.00. Driver VIP Passes are valid from May 1st to September 1st but can be used outside those dates for Membership Rates.

Also available until March 31st are memberships at the $60.00 Rate when they become $75.00 April 1st. Season Pit Passes are only available for Crew Members and new Drivers until March 31st as well for $375.00.

Member Drivers for Stock Cars and Karts were eligible for selection into each of the two Race Car Shows and the line ups for the Pen Centre (the week of March 19th) and Seaway Mall (the week of March 26th) will be announced in the near future.

Drivers will be responsible to hand in their completed Tech forms on the April 21st Practice Day beginning at 12 Noon. Cars will not be let out onto the race track at 5 PM without a 2012 Inspection Sticker.

Drivers from any Stock Car Division were invited to participate in the Pete Bicknell Driving School and Chassis Seminar to be held at Merrittville Speedway April 14th & 15th. Each day has limited availability for drivers and crew. Race teams wishing to register can do so by calling the Speedway’s Winter Office at 905-685-7223.

Similarly, Dates for the RCM Racing Equipment Kart School – while mandatory for all Novice level karters is open to karters from any division will be announced.

For all the news on Merrittville Speedway’s 61st Consecutive Season in 2012 including the Rules for Stock Cars and Karts – visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com. Race fans and Race teams alike can follow Merrittville on Face Book (Facebook.com/Merrittville Speedway) and Twitter (Twitter.com/Merrittville).

Join us this season on a Saturday Night for a LUCAS OIL WEEKLY RACING SERIES EVENT featuring FIVE Divisions with local heroes and up and coming new stars. Make your plans … call your friends and maybe even get a carpool together and enjoy a staycation at the speedway with plenty of free parking and camping spots – a night at the races is so much fun and so close to home!

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RANSOMVILLE'S BATTLE AT THE BORDER BECOMES MID-WEEK SPECIAL FOR 2012
 
RANSOMVILLE, NEW YORK_ With the release of the 2012 Ransomville Speedway schedule nearly completed, the footprint of the track's major racing dates are beginning to come into view as the Friesen family has announced it's two biggest 358 Modified events of the upcoming season.
 
The third annual "Battle of the Border" a 75 lap feature event paying $5000 to win is scheduled for Tuesday, July 3rd. The event has been a popular fixture on the Ransomville Speedway schedule since it was introduced in 2010. This will, however, be the first time that the "Battle of the Border" has been scheduled for a midweek date.
 
"We are extremely happy to announce that the Battle of the Border will be a midweek show in 2012," says Ransomville Speedway public relations and marketing director Tana Robinson. "It's an appeal to our wonderful race fans to see all of the DIRTcar Northeast racing stars that will show up for this event. It will, however, be tough for them to grab the money out of our regular drivers hands. We have an incredible field of drivers who race for us on a weekly basis and they won't be giving anyone a handout when it comes to the $5000 winners share."
 
"The timing will coincide with the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812," commented co-promoter Jamie Friesen. "It will allow drivers to come in for the event and get back to their weekly home track in plenty of time."
 
Ransomville Speedway also recently announced that the 28th annual Alex Friesen Summer Nationals will be run on Friday, August 17th.
 
DIRTcar Northeast racing star Danny Johnson has been the winner of the two previous "Battle of the Border" events to the delight of event sponsor Waste Management who also sponsors Johnson. "Our employees really enjoy this event," commented Waste Management's Mike Mahar. "We are excited to be sponsoring the 3rd annual affair and greatly look forward to the Tuesday date."
 
The Battle of the Border has also been a friendly rivalry between it's 358 Modified competitors from both the United States and Canada. The incentive plan that has been put in place since the initial event in 2010 will continue in 2012. If a United States based driver wins the event, the top five US drivers that finish will earn an addition $300. If a Canadian wins, the top five drivers from "north of the border" will get the $300 bonus.
 
"I love the incentive plan," adds Robinson. "Not only are we giving our drivers a chance to compete in an additional race on our schedule but five drivers are going to go home with some additional money in their pockets."

The third annual event will also serve as a Qualifier for the Hurricane 100 at Brewerton Speedway.
 
Stay tuned for more information on this incredible event in addition to the exciting 2012 Ransomville Speedway schedule. Open practice is scheduled for Friday, April 27th while the 55th annual Ransomville Speedway season opener is scheduled for Friday, May 4th. The 2012 season will also mark the 40th season that the Friesen family has owned Ransomville Speedway.

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JEFF MCGINNIS AND JERRY SKURSKI SET TO TEAM UP FOR FULL 2012 RANSOMVILLE SPEEDWAY ASSAULT

When it comes to the history of the Ransomville Speedway, the McGinnis family of Ransomville sits firmly into the confines of the 55 year old Niagara County half-mile oval.

Don McGinnis had gone down as one of the best to ever drive the Ransomville Speedway. Running the oval in the 1970’s through the mid-1990’s, McGinnis is a 1975 Late Model champion and a 1994 358 Modified titlist. Through his time after his racing career, he’s been the chief operator behind son Jeff’s career. Jeff has been a regular competitor at Ransomville Speedway since the 1997 season.

In 2012, Jeff and car owner Jerry Skurski will team up in the track’s 358 Modified Division for a chance at the coveted track championship. The line-up for the track’s 358 Modified class is of an all-star variety. Todd Burley, Pete Bicknell and Alan Johnson had dominated the class for the past 15 years before Chad Brachmann finally broke through in 2011.

Jeff McGinnis is a 2006 Ransomville Speedway Sportsman champion and 2007 Lucas Oil 358 Modified champion.

“I want to win races but we’re in here to have some fun,” said Jeff as the team puts the necessary work into getting the car ready for operation when Ransomville Speedway starts competition for the 2012 season on Friday, May 4th.

Jeff started his career driving someone else car. In 2000, he began driving the family operated team. Driving for Skurski in 2012, Jeff will again go on to another race team looking to upgraded his two career 358 Modified wins.

Jeff will drive a 2010 Teo Chassis. Pat Morrison of Fulton, NY is providing the power. Both Jeff and Jerry had a couple of races to know each other last season when they teamed up at Super DIRT Week 2011. The first time out provided a 13th place finish at Weedsport Speedway. They just missed out the following night at Rolling Wheels Raceway. Both events gave them a lot of experience to race against and some time to spend together.

“I’m really looking forward to having a driver like Jeff’s caliber in my race car,” said Skurski. “Jeff’s dad Don will be the crew chief. His experience will only help this race team.”

In addition to racing a full season at Ransomville Speedway, Jeff and Jerry will branch out to a different track here and there when the decide to go on the road.
Neverless, Jeff McGinnis will continue to add to the talent of the Ransomville Speedway 358 Modified Class. He’s looking for that third career win but is looking to enjoy his new ride and have some fun in the process.

Jeff McGinnis will be having a race party on April 14th at the 3F Club in Lewiston., NY.

Sponsoring the Jeff McGinnis/Jerry Skurski 2012 Ransomville Speedway effort is Sterling Lubricants of Rochester, NY; Pat Morrison Motors of Fulton, NY; Niagara Lock and Key of Niagara Falls, NY; Kellys Country Store of Grand Island, NY; Pink Carburetor of Charlotte, NC and Richards Motor Service of the Town of Niagara.

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VARIETY OF RACING EVENTS AT GRANDVIEW SPEEDWAY IN 2012  FORREST ROGERS MEMORIAL MOVED TO AUGUST 11
 
BECHTELSVILLE, PA January 8, 2011 . . . . One of the busiest racing schedules in the 50 season history of Grandview Speedway has been announced by track owner Bruce Rogers.

With more than 40 events planned fans will be treated to a variety of auto racing with the season set to kick off on Saturday, March 31st with the annual free-to-the-public practice session open to all divisions of racing competition. On that same day, at 6 p.m. the NEETS Enduro racers will kick off their season.

As in the past the NASCAR 358 Modifieds and Late Models will continue to be the main attraction on Saturday nights at the one-third-mile, banked clay speedway. However this year Sportsman stock cars have been added as a regular attraction to the Saturday night shows making for a tripleheader card of racing. The first tripleheader show is set for Saturday, April 7th at 7:00 p.m. Adult admission for the regular tripleheader shows will be just $15 while youngsters 11 and under will be able to attend for FREE. Unlike many sporting events Grandview Speedway continues to offer FREE parking on the speedway grounds.

As the track celebrates its 50 anniversary season a number of special events have been announced. The biggest event of the season will be the $50,000 to win BPG Racing Modified Classic on Saturday, September 15th.

Just recently announced was the Forrest Rogers Memorial Presented by Pioneer Pole Buildings which will pay $20,000 to win for a racer who appears regularly at Grandview and $10,000 to win for a visitor. The event had been announced as taking place on Saturday, August 18th but has been moved to August 11th.

“In reviewing the past history of the track it was discovered that the first race at Grandview was presented on August 11, 1963 so we decided one of our biggest events of the season should be moved to August 11th, ‘ said Rogers. “My father, Forrest Rogers, opened this track on that date 50 years ago. We apologize for any confusion and inconvenience caused by announcing earlier that the race would take place on August 18th.”

The second event of the season, April 14th, will feature a 50-lapper for the NASCAR 358 Modifieds as the 50th anniversary season gets into high gear. The Late Models and Sportsman will be part of that special night also.

Again this season there are several Bob Miller/Bruce Rogers Thunder on the Hill mid-week promotions presented with the first event taking place on Wednesday, May 23rd and will feature the Keystone Cup 410 Sprints and 358 Modifieds. Four other Thunder promotions will be presented during the season.

The NEETS Enduros will be featured eight times, on Sundays, during the season with seven of those shows also including the new Blast from the Past Vintage Stock Car Club.

New this year will be six Small Car Series events being presented on Sundays starting on April 22nd and featuring 270 and 600 Micro Sprints, Slingshots and 600 Modifieds. The events are being promoted by Pete Knappenberger.

The 50th anniversary season closes out on Saturday, November 17th with the annual awards banquet at the Gilbertsville, PA Fire Co. Social Hall.

And the huge Grandview Speedway 50th Anniversary Reunion Cruise is set for nine days starting on November 24th. Close to 100 people have already signed up for the cruise. Information is available from Marilyn Saxton at 215.752.2392. 

Season tickets, covering all Saturday night events, are currently available for $325. For information telephone 610.754.7688.

The full 50th Anniversary schedule can be found at www.grandviewspeedway.com. For information regarding rules, engine sealing, etc. please contact Harvey Endslinger at groundhog43@comcast.net or telephone 570.617.5816.

Schedules, NASCAR license applications and other information will be available at the Motorsports 2012 Presented by SEF Small Engine Fuels Race Car and Trade Show at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, PA January 20-22nd.

In addition the information will be available at other shows that Grandview Speedway will be participating in leading up for the start of the 2012 50th Anniversary season.

For information on marketing through motorsports at Grandview Speedway telephone Ernie Saxton Communications, Inc. at 215.752.7797 or Esaxton144@aol.com. A four page color brochure is available that outlines all marketing opportunities that are available during this huge 50th anniversary celebration.

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RANSOMVILLE SPEEDWAY TO HOST 28TH ALEX FRIESEN SUMMER NATIONALS ON AUGUST 17th; THE NATIONALS WILL SERVE AS A QUALIFIER FOR THE OUTLAW 200

Ransomville, NY – Thursday, January 7th, 2012 – The Alex Friesen Summer National’s has a tradition in Western New York as one of the highest paying 358 Modified events of the Summer. For 2012 – this will continue as the Friesen family once against puts a cool ten grand on the line to the winner of the 100 lap event.

In 2011 – several DIRTcar hotshoes made the trek to the Niagara Frontier looking to take the greenbacks away from the Ransomville hometown heros. Thanks to the cooperation of Brewerton Speedway management – John Wight, Harvey Fink, and Cory Reed – this will once again take place in 2012. Brewerton will be giving it’s Modified Division the night off in order to allow it’s competitors a chance at the $10,000 payday at Ransomville Speedway.

“It’s important that track promoters work together and make each other’s events even better, particularly when they are putting up a large purse and a $10,000 first prize,” commented Brewerton and Fulton Speedways Marketing Director Cory Reed. “ The relationship between the Friesen family and the Fulton Speedway was created by Alex during his career as a promoter so we are honored to announce they will make the Alex Friesen Summer Nationals a qualifier for the Outlaw 200.”

“Last years event was a rousing success,” commented PR and Marketing Director Tana Robinson. “Adding the many DIRTcar stars to our already very stout and talented field made it the event of the season for the Big R. It’s vitally important to work together – it benefits not only the speedways but the drivers and fans as well. Our sincerest thanks go out to John, Harvey, and Cory for working with us again this year.”

Despite the onslaught of invaders for the 2011 event, Ransomville regular Todd Burley was able to come away victorious and pocket the $10,000 winners share. Who will take the checkered this year? Will it be one of the sea of Red Cars of Larry Wight, Billy Decker, or Pat Ward? Perhaps Danny or Alan Johnson will take home the prize. Or will one of the Ransomville regulars show that hometrack advantage is too tough to tame? Pencil in August 17th on your calendar and be on hand to find out who will take home one of the biggest paydays of the season.

Alan Johnson is the leading career winner for the Alex Friesen Summer Nationals with six conquests. Bob McCreadie has taken five of those first place trophies home as well.

Filling the card will be the Original Pizza Logs Sportsman, Ki-Po Chevrolet Streetstocks, and Bobcat of Buffalo Fireballs.

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WOODHULL RACEWAY ARNOT MALL CAR SHOW FOR 2012 NOW ACCEPTING ENTRIES

Applications for this year’s event will be limited.

(Woodhull, NY)  With the Christmas and New Year Holiday Season over it is time once again for competitors of the Woodhull Raceway to register for the 2012 Arnot Mall Car Show.  With this years two day show scheduled for March 24 and 25 any regular competitor of Woodhull will be able to reserve a spot for this year’s event.  However, racers are advised to enter early as available parking spots within the Arnot Mall will be limited.

According to event organizer, Kenny Shupp,  “After a recent tour of the Arnot Mall and a brief meeting with Mall Officials we were informed that this years Woodhull Raceway Car Show will see limited available space.  Virtually every large store front in the Mall is occupied and there are spots within the walking part of the Arnot Mall where Kiosk’s occupy spots where race cars use to sit.  It is a testament to the management of the Mall that they have so many businesses renting stores particularly during these tough economic times.  However, we have to take all this into consideration when we put this car show together.  There are only so many spots to park cars and with little or no overflow spots in store fronts it will put us in a position of limiting participants of this years show to only Woodhull Raceway competitors and even at that it will be on a first come first serve basis.  At this point we will not even guarantee our track champions a spot.  If drivers don’t register early and we run out of room there may be cars left out.”

“Each year it gets tougher and tougher to fit cars into the show as available space becomes tougher to find and in many cases the cars have gotten bigger.  There are numerous places where we used to get three cars into an area and now we can only fit two because of the length and width of the machines.  I can remember when we had over 100 cars in the show and now we are lucky to get 50 in there.”

Drivers are encouraged to register by sending their name, car number and class of competition to the track either via e-mail or by phone.  Again, this is for Woodhull Raceway competitors only!

A complete list of participants and Woodhull Raceway Arnot Mall Car Show Rules will be posted on the track web site.

E-mail information thru the track web site at www.woodhullraceway.com or kshupp@stny.rr.com.  Kenny Shupp can be reached by phone at 607-329-6305.

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JUSTIN WRIGHT JOINS 358 MODIFIED RANKS

When you think of the top young talents at the Ransomville Speedway, Justin Wright stands near or at the top.

The 25 year old Pifford, New York college student, who spends his days at SUNY Geneseo and works part time at Sweeteners Plus, will head upwards when the 2012 season begins at the Niagara County based half-mile oval.

Wright will run the track’s premier 358 Mighty Taco Modified Division against what is already one of the top 358 fields in the northeast. Justin knows that he’s got his work cut out for him.

“It’ll be great to run against drivers like Chad Brachmann, Todd Burley, Pete Bicknell and Scott Kerwin,” said Wright, who spent five years in the Sportsman class. “I guess we’re ready to pull the trigger.”

Justin finished second in 2010 Ransomville Speedway Sportsman points. Wright had never won a title in his five years in the Sportsman class but has several second place finishes.

Justin will be driving a 358 Modified owned by Rob and Jim Sweeting. The Sweetings were also one of Justin’s car owners in the Sportman Class. Justin will drive the family owned big block Modified when they open the Canandaigua Motorsports Park 2012 schedule this April.

Justin has had a little experience in the 358 Modified class,. Getting a 358 motor from Vic Coffey, Justin drove a couple of races during Super DIRT Week 2011. He’s also had a couple of Super Late Model starts as well. He feels that he’s ready for the Ransomville Speedway 358 Modified class.

“I’m confident. I expect to be very competitive. I’d like to get into the top ten in points. Get even a number of top five finishes.”

“I’m looking to go to the front…that’s for sure.”

Justin got his start in the Street Stocks at Batavia, NY at age 16. He entered the Sportsman ranks in 2007 when he purchased a chassis from Scott Kerwin. His talent saw him improve over the period he was in the class.

“I’m not getting any younger. It’s time to make the move up.”

Justin actually wanted to move up a couple of years ago.

“I’m glad that I didn’t. I feel that it helped me to stay where I was getting a couple of more years experience.”

Justin grew up watching his dad Alan race in the Central New York region. His grandfather Charlie also drove in the 1960’s. Both are a part of the family owned team. His grandmother Ruth is also one of his biggest fans.

“I know all of these 358 Modified drivers and they really know what they’re doing. This is certainly in no disregard to the Sportsman Division. I learned a lot there. My work against the other drivers in the class is allowing me to move up.”

While Justin Wright makes the move into Ransomville Speedway’s 358 Mighty Taco Modified Division, he adds another name to the already talented group of racers that make up the class.

It may be the middle of winter but most of us can’t wait for the 2012 season to begin.

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