Ramblin' 'Bout Racin'
by Charlie Spry

 

7/28/2008

    On Saturday night I raced at Jefferson Speedway for the second time this year, and while when I race I normally don't write much about the night, I talked with so many different people and saw so much go on that I thought I'd put a few words down on the night.
     At this point in the season you never know who will show up out of the blue.  People you haven't seen in awhile suddenly show up again, proving that this sport is waaay too addicting.  Veteran late model racer Russ Grossen was out tonight with his late model, the first time in quite some time, especially here.  Russ was the 1978 late model champion here in an early camaro, but then raced for several years at Madison.  This had to be his first race here in several years.
     Nice to see the Goodwin team back again.  Russ raced late models here and various other tracks for many years, and still has his car, but not the time or finances to run it.  However, Son Matt now has a Bandit car, and they were all present again.  Matt did a very nice job and will be a factor in the races wherever he runs.
    Happy to see Brandon Johnson win the Bandit feature.  I kind of talked him into joining me tonight so I sort of felt responsible for his success or failure tonight.  It was all success!  Brandon probably has a sore neck, however, as he was getting beaten by the second place car pretty bad.  He eventually lost the lead on the last lap but the offending car was DQ'd for rough driving, so he got the win anyway.  This was the correct call in my opinion.  Now they just need to start black flagging drivers for spinning cars out in this division and they will be all set.  We don't need this to turn into demo-derby racing.  NASCAR and video games seem to be having a less than desired effect on short track racing as these kids see this stuff go on and try it for real on the track.
     James Bell won his very first feature in the International division tonight, but I missed it as I was loading the car at that time.  James has had his struggles in the past but has stuck with it, and probably has much less money invested in his racing operation than many in this division, so it's good to see him win one.  He races very cleanly, too.  I'm sure it is a night he will remember forever! 
     Always enjoy pitting next to Bandit racer Barrett Hammond.  He has a very upbeat personality that just draws people to him.  He puts more miles on than anyone to race here at Jefferson, as he travels weekly from Minneapolis, Minnesota to race.  Originally from the Cambridge area, he got a job in Minneapolis, but already had a Jefferson legal car with no tracks nearby in Minnesota to run it as per the rules, so he keeps the car in the area and commutes here every weekend to race.  Think of the gas costs!
      Had a chance to meet Bandit racer Mark Dewey finally.  Mark has been impressive in his racing the past couple of years, as he races clean but hard and not out of control.  Mark has plans on moving up to the International division next year and will be a welcome addition to the division.  Mark was struggling with fuel delivery problems all night.
      Sportsman racer Craig Olver was present again tonight to try to work the bugs out of the car and get the handling more to his liking.  Former racer Randy Breunig was helping him out tonight and together they figured out a lot of things and made the car much better.  Craig won the first heat last week but said he wasn't satisfied with that, that the car is much better than that and should be running strong in the features.  He said he thought he finished the feature in eighth place, so he's getting there.  By the way, Randy said he misses racing, so here is another driver you will probably see returning sometime.  It's a sickness, I tell you!
      I would like to thank the Schuyler racing team for the t-shirt, and also Dells LM racer Joel Sorensen for the same!

7/11/2008

    The Independence day weekend provided some excellent racing weather for us, which is kind of strange, as usually it likes to rain on a holiday.  We'll take it!

     We headed up north to the Marshfield Super Speedway for the Mid-Am series show.  This group always puts on a good show, and we like this track, so it's a no-brainer.
    The  Mid-Am's provided us with a wide range of driver ages and experience.  With the seasoned veterans showing their stuff tonight.  Third generation driver Brian Back did just about everything you could do tonight, as he served up double duty, racing in the super stocks and the Mid-Am's.  He clean swept the SS division, and nearly did so in the Mid-Am's,  just getting edged out in his heat to prevent a clean sweep.  Brian said that he liked the track and it was his favorite, and it is easy to see why.  While he had an easier time in the SS division, the outcome of the Mid-Am feature was not decided until the last lap and last corner, as Bill Prietzel and Lyle Nowak seemed ready to decide it amongst themselves, while Back seemed to patiently wait until the end to pounce.  The three put on a great race with Back edging Prietzel at the line, with Nowak finishing third.  You just knew you were going to see a quality race as it unfolded.  When you watch a race like this it seems time just flies by, and I know the drivers likely felt the same way, although Prietzel may have wished it would have ended a little sooner.  Anyway, excellent race by all and an absolute blast to watch.
     Scott Null said that he has a new car ready to go, just needs to be lettered up.  He will use the new car on the bigger tracks and retain the older one for the shorter tracks.  This series runs at a wide variety of tracks, so they really need to do a lot of switching of setups and so forth, so that should help a lot in that respect.
     Back took off and ran away with the win in the super stocks.  A big fan favorite here, as the third generation driver hails from nearby, and has put on a ton of miles here.  Lyle Nowak also pulled double duty, coming home to a fourth place feature finish in another race where a cagey veteran seemed to appear out of nowhere at the end of a race.  You know a driver is smooth when you never notice them until the end of a race and they are right there in the thick of things.
     Ryan Mork pulled off another win in the pure stocks, as he seems to be the dominant driver here this year.  Kyle Genett had been dominating here the past couple of years, but it seems there is a new sheriff in town, as Ryan has now won the last four features in a row, with Genett winning the other one run so far this year.
     The four cylinders also had a repeat winner as Jeremiah Strauss won his second feature in a row here.  There are always a good field of these cars here, and tonight Wausau regulars John Lietz and Dale Louze also were present.  Liked Paul Berg's Pinto, which shot flames out the exhaust coming into the corners just like a late model.
     The next night we took in the show on the dirt at the Dubuque Fairgrounds Speedway.  Something unusual here is that they charge an admission rate plus tax, so you end up paying weird amounts such as $13.90 to get in and $6.13 for food.  Hope the Wisconsin tracks never go this route.
     Freeport regular Jeff Larson appeared to have the late model feature well in hand, until he cut a tire or broke his front suspension (not sure which), and coasted to a stop on the 3-4 turn, giving the lead to Brian Harris, who is currently fifth in NASCAR regional points.  Harris went on for the win which will help him out even more in his quest.  Too bad for Larson, as this would have been his first late model feature win here I believe.
     It was a sultry evening, one of those where you knew it was going to rain sooner or later.  The wind picked up and it appeared the rains were coming soon, and things got really wicked looking as the B-Mods hit the track for their feature.  This was the last feature to be run, and they seemed bent on self destructing, so we headed for the car on their third caution to hopefully beat the impending downpour, which we did.

4/6/2008


    After the long winter months I thought it was time to finally sit down and write a little bit.  Just when we thought spring was here we got blasted with another several inches of the white stuff here in southern Wisconsin.  Now, it has finally all melted once again, so lets try again!
     It seems that most tracks are scheduling their season openers either at their usual time or a little bit later.  This might be a good thing as we wait for Spring to get here and stay here.
     One thing I think everyone will be keeping an eye on is the cost of gas.  This will make it harder for racing teams and fans alike to attend races anywhere, but especially may limit travel to distant tracks.  We will have to take a wait and see attitude to see if car counts and attendance drop or remain steady.  Here is hoping it all goes well.  I know I have kept a watch on my spending this winter so that hopefully we can still attend our usual races at our usual tracks.  Weekly shows at local tracks may just thrive, as people may stay closer to home.  Then again, who knows what will happen.
     Was saddened to hear of the passing of central Wisconsin racing pioneer Sonny Immerfall of Marshfield.  Sonny's racing career ran from the 1950's up to and including the 1983 racing season, after which he announced his retirement from the sport.  He raced right with the best from central Wisconsin, faring quite well.  He was known for racing Ford products numbered 4U.  What some may not know is that Sonny also did some flagging in the central Wisconsin area, including at the old Stratford Speedway which was shuttered in the late 1960's for good.  I was fortunate enough to have met Sonny, as he wrote to me when I was a columnist for CFRN.  I mentioned that I was looking for racing information of defunct tracks in his area, and he responded.  I had a chance to spend a wonderful afternoon at his house looking through his various scrapbooks and photo albums, and learned a great deal.  Sonny raced in the era where people raced sometimes four, five or more times a week, although he told me he ran a little less than some as he felt family obligations should come first.  
     Johnson Creek racer Dave Gigl has the former Craig Kleinsteiber Thunderbird sportsman car and has rebodied it as a later model 'Bird.  Dave is planning on racing at Jefferson.
     LaVerne Paulson has purchased a dirt modified from Sayner's Mike Boyd and plans on having a little 'Fun in the mud'.  LaVerne said he plans on racing wherever and whenever and just having some fun with it.
     Jefferson International racer James Bell plans on also having a year of fun and not chasing points.  He will be leaving for school at the mid-season point and point chasing is out, so he plans on racing at some other tracks as well as Jefferson.  The price of gas may dictate exactly where he goes.
     Wausau area racer Dave Lashua has sold all of his equipment and plans on working as crew chief for Wayne Cottrell.  Dave has not ruled out getting behind the wheel a time or two.

9/24/2007


    This past weekend, Sept. 22-23 we spent up at the Marshfield Super Speedway for their annual Fall Spectacular, hosted by Steve Parsons. Steve does a great job all year in securing sponsorship for this show, and it's one of the best post-season shows in my opinion.
     When we got there Saturday afternoon we learned that motorcycle racer Brad Seavers had taken a spill and collided with the wall in practice, sustaining a broken neck.  While he is in a halo brace, we later learned that he had begun return of sensation and we sure hope for a full recovery for Brad.
    The Mid-Am cars had a series points race on Saturday.  I really enjoy this series and the drivers in it.  Popular opinion early on was that Lyle Nowak would be the man to beat, as he has turned quite a few laps here before, while many others had never raced on the track at all.  Lyle did look awfully impressive in his heat race, coming from the back to the front to win it.  Bill Prietzel had set fast time and felt that he had just turned a lucky lap in doing that.  James Swan had yet to win a series feature yet this year, but had scored many second place finishes, and tonight was his night to get the win, as he powered through the field, taking the checker over Brett Piontek and a very strong running Rod Brewe, followed by Nowak and Prietzel.  Very entertaining race put on by a great group of drivers.
    Once again, the IMCA Old-timers had their cars here to race.  I really appreciate these guys bringing their machines to show and run, and they were here in force!  Matt McLaughlin had his '58 Edsel out tonight, and noted that the rear tube bumper is actually one of the support poles off the old flag stand from Griffith Park Speedway near Wisconsin Rapids.  Lot's of nostalgia with this car!  Darrell Basseuner had the misfortune of backing his '57 Chevy into the wall, sustaining some body damage.  The group worked with him and had him back on the track the next night, although the car will definitely need a cosmetic makeover.
     A good field of limited late models were on hand, as a lot of them made the trip from the Kaukauna area, also a couple of Dells cars and Columbus cars, as well as a couple from Lacrosse, including fast timer Skylar Holzhausen, who unfortunately never really got to race, as he spun in warm-up laps for his heat and was struck by another car, ending the night for both.  Kris Kelly made the trip from Norway, Mich. pay off as he worked his way to the front and won the feature.  Brian Back converted his super stock over to LLM rules and ran with the limited's tonight, ultimately finishing fourth.
    The four cylinder racers put on their usual good show, but had their feature marred by some bad wrecks, the most serious sending Austen Stump and Paul Berg to the hospital.  Both got caught up as kind of innocent victims.  Word was that Austen might be spending a week or two in a neck brace but should be just fine, and never heard anymore on Paul.  Again, we wish the best for both drivers!  Derk Hauser took the win in their feature.
    A group of youngsters were present to race quarter-midgets.  Very entertaining, as some of the racers were as young as five years old!  There isn't much in this area for that kind of racing, but I understand most of this group races at a special track in Elko, Minnesota.
    A whole new bunch of racers were in the pits for the Sunday show, with the super lates headlining.  Some 35 were on hand, although Mark Mackesy had his motor expire while attempting to qualify, and M.G. Gajweski also leaving early with unspecified troubles.  Kris Kelly was on hand with a super late to try to make it a double, and Rocky Breezer had his super out for the first time this year, having raced his limited the previous night.  A couple others who ran with the limited's the previous night bolted on the big rubber and ran with the super lates.  The feature was a 100 lap affair, and the first 50 clipped off rapidly, but then there was a mandatory pit stop at lap 50 for refueling, and that is when things started happening.  Pete Kempf flew off the backstretch and clipped a light pole, sending said pole into a rather precarious position, although it still worked.  Pete was taken to the hospital with back pain, and we hope all is well with him.  The light pole was secured and the race continued, with fast timer Steve Holzhausen working his way to the front and passing Mark Eswein for the lead and win.  Holzhausen was racing in a Pete Kempf owned car, and kind of played possum the first 50 laps, then came on strong at the end.  Both Eswein and third finishing Nathan Haseleu alluded to this fact in their post race interviews, as They both said that Mr. Holzhausen played it smart.  Holzhausen stated, "They were using their tires up, and I was saving mine so I'd have something left at the end."  It worked!
     The super stocks showed up in strong numbers, with a wide variety of cars from various tracks.  Brian Back emerged victorious over Mark Eswein who was pulling double duty.  Some of the older street stock/bomber style cars were running with this class and did a nice job, with Jim Annala taking tenth I believe.  Brian Bartelt also did a nice job with his Thunderbird, and had a "Get well Brad" message printed on his car, as he is a good friend of Brad Seavers.  Nice show put on by a group of drivers from various tracks with various types of cars.
     Maybe that is one of the reasons I like this show so much.  It is not run under the influence of any series or sanctioning body, it is an old school special event where you show up and run.  No hassles, just racing.  Cars from all over getting together and drivers having fun.
    The pure stocks also had some visitors, as Mike Litchfeld took the feature win, passing Marshfield regular Ryan Mork on the last lap to get the win.  Ryan recently became the only driver here at Marshfield to defeat point champion Kyle Genett in a PS feature here this year, and looked strong again, but Litchfeld had a little more.
     The Junkyard Warriors only had a couple of visitors, but one of them won, as Mark Bornitz brought home his four cylinder to the victory over a field of mostly six cylinder cars.

9/17/2007

    This past weekend we took in the two day Wisconsin State Championships at Jefferson Speedway on Friday and Saturday nights.  Usually a few drivers travel from a fair distance away to race in this event, although this year it was more in the support classes as opposed to the late model division.

     A group of four cylinder racers came and raced with the International division this weekend, as Phil Malouf, Adam Eckes, Tim Gorecki and Tucker Miller made the tow down from central Wisconsin.  Malouf would be the long distance driver of the weekend, as he hails from Manitowish Waters, which is way up near the top of the state.  Phil seems to like to travel, as he races often at places such as Golden Sands, Wausau, Marshfield and pretty much wherever he can find a race.  He was the winner in his division at the Slinger "Futures" race last year.  Nice to see these drivers make the long haul.  Always like to see the central and northern Wis. drivers come down.  We need more of it, they are good people!  A couple of this group had to get up bright and early on Sunday morning, as State Park Speedway was running their season championships that afternoon, and both Malouf and Tucker are in the midst of the battle.
     Sportsman racer Terry Wangsness captured his first sportsman feature victory ever at Jefferson on Friday night.  He has won many hobby stock features here, and has won a sportsman feature at Columbus, but he finally got one here at his home track of Jefferson.  Plus, he picked the biggest weekend to do it in!  In talking with Terry on Saturday, he noted, "I looked at the lineup and saw that Chico (Riedner) was next to me, and thought, oh boy, but he got hung up in traffic and it worked out for me.  It was alot of fun."
     Late model racer Jody Krueger once again had some bad luck in racing in this event.  "That is three out of four years now with bad luck at this show.  The first year I blew the engine in my Bandit car, then the next year things actually went okay, then last year I crashed with the sportsman car and then went to that race at Slinger the next day and blew the engine, and then this year get caught up in a wreck and come back and blow the engine in the late model."  Jody is pretty much unflappable and seems to shrug off this bad luck, but here is hoping things go better!  His Dad, Gary, told him that maybe it was for the best, as they planned on racing at MIS the next week, and they figured things would really get messed up if you blow a motor on the half-mile.
     We took in the practice on Thursday night, and there were several cars turning laps that didn't come back to race.  I had heard that most thought they weren't turning good enough times to have a chance, so they decided not to enter.  That's too bad, because that is what this show was all about when it started, a big show for the low dollar racers.  Sometimes it seems to be getting away from that.
     Late model racer Dylan Schuyler also had a rough weekend, getting banged around some.  His Dad, Ron, told me that the car was getting tired anyway, needed some work, and for some reason doesn't respond to new tires like you would think it would.  After a  kind of rough Friday night, Dylan turned in only a few laps on Saturday, electing to keep the car in one piece and likely call it a season.  It was a good season for Dylan, third in points and one feature win, two dash wins, and two fast qualifying efforts.  All done by keeping the car intact and in a positive attitude.  He also had a chance to race a super late model at Slinger this season on I think one or two occasions, so that had to be a fun experience as well.
     Jason Erickson had a very good weekend, as he was the overall winner of the late model portion.  His fourth and second place feature finishes mirrored Ryan Carlson's equal finishes in opposite races, so the tie-breaker came down to who had the fastest qualifying effort, with Erickson slightly faster.
     Nice to see a few of the Dells cars come down and run as well.  In the sportsman division we had Scott Luck and Todd Ambrose, while Tom and Steve Litchfeld ran with the hobbies, as well as Brad Luck (Pronounced Luke)  Ed Szelagowski Jr., Kevin Seidler and James Krushcke ran with the late models.  Bobbi Jo Bishofberger and Aaron Wilke came from Columbus, while Carlyn Voight was the lone "outsider" in the Bandits.  Andy Raley, a Columbus regular ran with the hobbies, with Gerald Chapman racing Gary Pashley's title winning hobby from Columbus.  Rockford Roadrunner champ Charlie Frisch was present as well as Josh Lundy, and Joey Thomas from Rockford.  Dennis Smith Jr. was guest driving the potent Chet Paffel machine.
     Mark Miller was not behind the wheel of his late model this weekend.  Seems he had recent surgery and was told it would be best to sit this one out, so he called his good friend Randy Breunig and offered the ride for the weekend.  Mark told me that Randy at first declined, but Mr. Miller told him that if he didn't race then he would have to do it, as the car was going to be raced one way or another, so Randy finally accepted.  He timed into the show and did very well on Friday night, but ran into some troubles on Saturday.  Nothing major, just some bad luck.  Randy may not have been behind the wheel for awhile, but he can definitely get the job done. He showed no rust at all.  Both of these drivers do a great job with a very sharp looking car.
    Former track champ Scott Nottestad was behind the wheel of one of Jason Schuler's house cars this weekend, and he too, had some kind of rough luck.  Multi-track, multi-time champ Bobby Wilberg raced in this show last season and failed to make the main events, but showing the form of a true champion, as he did his homework this year and came out strong, easily timing into the show and running strong all weekend on a track he has limited time on.
    Jim Tate Jr. dominated the hobby stock portion of the show on both days, as he set fast time on Friday and then won the feature, then did it again on Saturday for a clean sweep.  The last clean sweep here in this class was accomplished by Nathan Haseleu on 8-9-95, so it's been awhile.  Haseleu did it on a regular show with fast time, heat and feature, but this was a sweep for the weekend.
    Next weekend we continue on with stops both at MIS and Marshfield.
 
9/9/2007

    Had a little mid-week racing action this past week, as I decided to finally get over to Boone, Iowa, and the IMCA SuperNationals.  After hearing so many people tell me "You've just got to experience Boone", I grabbed a couple of friends and we loaded the car and headed over for the five-plus hour trip west.

     I'll tell you this right off, all those people were right.  It is truly an amazing sight.  On Wednesday, the day we went, the modifieds were on center stage, as everyone was trying to get into the big show on Saturday.  Cars and drivers from California, New York, Arkansas, Florida, and of course all of the states closer were on hand, running 40 heat races.... Yes, 40.  Everything is run in a super efficient manner here, as you would have to in order to get anything accomplished in a decent time with this many cars.  If anyone spun another car out, boom! black flag.  No if's and's or but's.  I like the sign when entering the pits that said "No crybabies allowed".  They don't put up with any guff here, and everyone seems to know it.
     The drivers were all very friendly, it seems everyone is here to have a good time and make new friends.  As they said, "It's the Nationals, Baby!"  It doesn't matter where you are from, you are here, and that's what counts.  Some drivers likely had no chance of making the big show, but they were here just the same, and all can claim to be a part of something so huge.
     Of course, a large contingent of Wisconsin drivers were on hand.  Some had a good night while others are still looking for better luck or more speed.  With all of these cars here, surprisingly there were very few cautions, as the caution flag is not easily thrown here, the show moves on at a very fast pace and if you spin out, you'd better well be getting 'er re-fired and moving!
    What also impressed me were the admission prices.  In this day and age of constantly rising fees for both front and back gate, the front gate here was a whole $10, which is on par with most weekly shows or even less.  Pit passes were $20.  If they can charge so little, what's the deal at all the other post season shows??  For this money we got to witness something like 63 different races.  Talk about value!
    I'm definitely going back to this show.  The only bad thing was the long drive home at midnight after the races were over.  It is just too far to drive home, so next time I think we'd stay over.  Maybe even take in the whole week sometime.
   Friday we stayed a lot closer to home and took in the season championship races at Columbus.  The most drama filled race for a track title was conducted in the hobby stocks, where Jim Tate Jr. and Gary Pashley were in a tight battle.  Pashley needed to finish two spots ahead of Tate in the feature to grab the title, and with a small field of cars it would be tough.  However, all of the cars were about equal, and Pashley managed to stay the two spots ahead, although he had a scary moment when he and another car locked bumpers, and at this point it looked like Tate would overtake him.  Pashley did what he had to do and took the feature win, with Alan Dorn and Tate following.  How much closer could you get?  Great job all season by both drivers and really, all the hobby stocks!  This was Gary's second hobby stock title here, the first coming in 2003.
   In the late models, defending champion Dean Schultz told me prior to the races that he only needed to start the feature to gain enough points to secure the title over Steve Dobbratz.  Being a smart person, he opted out of running the heat race, but really gave a hard run in the feature.  His sixth place finish secured the title, while Dobie took it pretty careful, as he had one of his cars wrecked badly last week and likely wants to keep things intact the rest of the way for the specials.  Congrats to both these drivers on great seasons!  Aaron Falbe won the feature to close out the season here.  he looked very strong in the latter stages of the season.
   Bruce Havel likewise only needed to start the Backup car feature to secure another track title, and he did so.  Bruce announced his retirement from racing the backups tonight, as he said it is bothering his back too much to continue the reverse racing.  Imagine yourself trying to race hard for all these laps while looking over your shoulder and still trying to be aware of where you are on the track, traffic, etc., and at a high rate of speed!  It isn't easy!  Bruce was always one of the best at this, winning several track titles and 65 feature events.  He will be missed in the backup races, but he raced late models for many seasons as well, and told me he still has that car and hopes to get a motor for it and get back into late model competition, so hopefully we'll still see him race.  Congrats on a great backup career, Bruce!
   Tim Syvrud had already secured the track title in the street stocks.  Tim was amongst the fastest of timers week in and week out, always requiring him to start at the tail of the field.  Not an easy task to get to the front.  It is always nice to see someone who gives their all in time trials do well in the final points, and fun to watch them come through the pack.  A very deserved track title!
   In the Bandit division, Gary Stark led the standings most of the season, although defending champ Kyle Watters made it interesting, especially later in the season.  Stark won the feature to leave no doubt tonight.
   At Jefferson on Saturday night there were once again several new cars, no doubt doing some testing.  In the late models it was good to see Andrew Brocker run.  I hadn't seen him in several years.  New driver Justin Wagner had a late model out as well and did very well, as I know the past history of this car and I'm quite sure it is the oldest car out there by a long ways.  We also had three visitors with the Lake Geneva street stock class.  As most of you know, the Lake Geneva track closed at the end of last season, leaving many looking for a new home track.  Vaughn Lesko, Bill Johnson and Joel Steffen made the trip.  They said they have been racing at Slinger and enjoy it, but are looking for a track where they can get more racing in each week.  They were happy with their pay, and as Johnson stated, "It's a good program here.  These guys are really going, they're faster than we thought they'd be.  We're looking at maybe making some changes and racing here next year."  Right now, the LGR cars are kind of at a huge disadvantage with the Jefferson sportsman cars, they are kind of between a hobby stock and sportsman car.  I miss this class racing on the LGR track tremendously.  
   One of the most interesting features of the night was in the sportsman feature, where rookie Brady Lily won his first career feature in the division.  He has really made a great improvement over the season and it all culminated with the feature win tonight, holding off 2007 track champ Scott "Chico" Riedner.  If you can hold off Chico, you are really making a big accomplishment!
   Steve Dobbratz steadily passed cars on his way to the front and took the late model headliner.  He did what he could, but still finished second in season points to Doug Hahn, who had a great year.  Dobie is one of only a smattering who ran both Columbus and Jefferson every week, and he finished second in points at both tracks, a pretty solid accomplishment, as most  people nowadays run one track only.
   Veteran hobby stock racer Larry Moen took that feature event.  Larry runs a lot of different tracks, too, and you can tell, he's been around the track a lot.  He doesn't run steadily and seem to chase points at any particular place, nothing wrong with that, have fun and race wherever and whenever you want, I say.  Jim Tate Jr. won the track title, kind of makes up for his so close second place points chase at Columbus.
   Ken Au and Mark English did battle for the International feature win, with Au winning by inches in a crash fest.  However, English won the track title.
   The bandit track championship was once again down to the final night, with Gary Stark holding a slim lead over Kyle Watters.  Watters did what he could by winning the feature, but Stark just had to finish two spots behind to grab the title, which he did one better, finishing in second after getting bottled up in traffic.

9/2/2007

    The holiday weekend started off with a trip north to the State Park Speedway near Wausau.  With all the rainouts they have had here this year, the season normally would conclude tonight, but a couple more weeks have been added to the schedule.
     With a low car count in the super lates and the sportsman cars, each of these two divisions ran a bit different schedule to give more racing to all.  Three "segments" were run instead of just a heat and feature.  In the super lates, two 10 lap segments and then a 20 lap final were run, with Jesse Haase dominating.  He had a real clean sweep, as he set fast time and won all three racing events.  Points were tallied from these racing events to find an overall winner, and little doubt here that Haase was the winner.  Second in points man Cale Laessig finished second in all the events to claim second overall.
     In the sportsman ranks, it was a little tighter, although Joe Monti didn't win every event, as Jim Annala took the win in the first segment.  Joe had won the second segment and the final feature to gain the overall.  It was very nice to see Brian Bartelt back out with his Thunderbird for the first time in perhaps two or three years.  Hopefully, Brian will get to race some of the post season specials now.
    The CENEX Mini-Stocks ran a regular show of heats and a feature, with Tucker Miller racing three wide and passing most of the field on the first lap to take the win by a comfortable margin.
     On Friday the gas prices in the area shot up just in time for the holiday weekend.  Okay, no surprise there.  Must have been a refinery fire somewhere... Yeah, right!  Anyway, we stayed closer to home and took in the show at Columbus.  Good field of late models on hand for a beautiful night of racing.  Former track champion Andy Wendt made only his second appearance of the season here (or anywhere, I think for that matter) and passed a stubborn Mike Taylor and went on to win the feature.  Earlier, a fracas in a heat race sent leader Al Weishoff spinning and the result at the tail end of the race was a very  ugly sight, as Steve Dobbratz and Scott Patrick both spun and collected the wall, with Patrick's car ending up nearly flipping over and ending up on top of Dobbratz' car.  Patrick was taken to the hospital to be checked over but did return to the track later, although his car looked bad.  Dobie's car was also messed up pretty badly, but to all's surprise, he returned to run the feature, minus all of the body except for the roof!  I've seen cars racing before missing various body panels, but never the whole body!  It was an interesting sight!  He even managed an eleventh place finish out of it.  It was simply amazing just to see the car circle the track at speed.  "I've got a good crew,"  Stated Dobie.  Indeed, he does.
     Also returning to the track for the first time this year was Andy's Son, Nick.  Street Stock racer Tylor Schultz was out for the first time this season in Justin's backup late model, and won the semi his first night out, stayed out of trouble, had a good first outing.  Dennis Estes made his first appearance here, while Jerry Auby was present but never turned a lap after experiencing troubles early.  Tony Koepke also raced Paul Seeber's late model.
     Ben Monday had a good night in the hobby stocks, winning both the heat and feature, his first ever feature win in the hobbies.  Brandon Riedner did a nice job of passing in the outside to capture the street stock feature win, while new track champion Tim Syvrud followed him in passing on the outside, but couldn't catch Bud.
     Saturday night we took a long trip up to Matt Rowe's 141 Speedway to see the Gary Vercauteran Memorial 50 for the Mid-Am cars, plus the weekly divisions.  I really like the Mid-Am series, it is always a good show with sharp cars and talented drivers who are all class acts.  The weekly divisions here also put on a good show.
     Promoter/owner Matt Rowe has said this will be his last show of promoting weekly Saturday shows, as he wants to get into some other things, amongst them a return to racing a car himself.  He can be very proud of what he accomplished here, as he has a very solid group of weekly racers, he has the best restroom facilities you will find anywhere, he runs a tight show where they don't seem to put up with any B.S., and you definitely can't beat his admission prices, $6 before 6:00 and $8 thereafter.  Try getting a night of entertainment anywhere for that cheap.  His concessions are very reasonably priced, too, cheaper than just about anywhere I've seen, and are good.  Another thing done right here is the friendly attitude of all the people employed at the track... When you purchase a ticket here you are greeted warmly with a smile and a "Thank You".  Seems like such a small thing, but it really sets the tone for the night with the fans.  Can anyone run this track better than Matt?  I very seriously doubt it.  But, it's time to see if someone or some group will run the weekly shows from now on.  Hopefully someone will, but they better learn and do it Matt's way. 
     A really neat thing done here is called "Let's Make A Deal", a takeoff of the popular television game show.  During cautions, Matt will don his legendary pink sport coat and with an assistant he will ask if anyone in the crowd has a particular item such as a dryer sheet or hairspray, and when someone comes forward will ask if they want what is in the round canister or the box.  Various things can be won, but we wonder what the youngster thought that won the can of beans!  $20 in cash seemed to be the prevailing item given away along with some kind of strange costume hats, etc.  Pretty neat thing!  By the way, Matt looks waaaay different with his long hair cut off!
     On to the racing, local Mid-Am competitor Kevin Damrow could not be bettered in the feature, as he held off James Swan the entire way.  Swan backed off many times and probably easily could have taken Damrow out, and Damrow thanked him for his clean driving.  The event was flagged some 10 laps short of the 50 due to curfew, but I still wonder if Swan would have pushed the issue much more in those final 10 laps.  Guess we'll never know.
     Mid-Am racer Scott Null had a kind of rough night, as his car broke early in the night and they couldn't find replacement parts at the track.  So, Scott called his Brother, Rod, and told him to bring the parts from the shop in Lake Mills, a looong way aways.  Anyway, they made it and got the car together, but still missed time trials and Scott had to start the first heat in the back, which he came through and finished third.  Then, starting near the rear of the semi, there was really no way to get through the pack, so they had an early end to the night.  Perhaps it was not all bad, though, as their car got loaded in the hauler completely intact whereas many did not.
     Mini-Stock driver Allen Dillon had the center of his wheel tear out in the feature, but still had the points title locked up prior to the night's events.  Jason Willadsen won his second career feature, and like many he was asked what his plans are for next year with the uncertainty of the situation here, he replied that he honestly didn't know what he would do, that he hoped he would still be racing here.
     The super stocks had a bit of a strange twist, as feature race leader Tim Conard was taken out attempting to pass a lapped car!  It was in no way intentional, but still, he had to go to the back of the pack as he was part of the caution.  Luckily, he had already secured the track title as well, but this allowed Mike Meyerhoffer to take advantage and take the feature win.
     The Sport-4's were the division that had the drama in the points, as the two going for the title were running right with each other the whole race, with the title coming down to a tie and co-champions, David Gauger Jr. and Rick Lorrigan.  

8/28/2007

    We started off our racing weekend with another rainout, or flood out, as most tracks in Wisconsin suffered from another bout with the wet stuff on Friday night.  Enough rain already!  I said weeks back that everyone is wishing for rain, and when it does come, it won't stop, and I guess I was right.

    Finally on Saturday we got a race in, as Jefferson Speedway cleared out a lot of water to try to run their show.  The infield of the track was still a lake, and a good portion of the pits were still under water, but with herculean efforts, the show went on, even though several teams had to pit in the camper area reserved for the two day show at the seasons end.  Somehow, everyone got through it all.
    With all the rainouts and the upcoming state championships here, several late models were making their first or second appearances of the season.  Brad Norgaard, Michael Kruschke, Mark Miller, Scott Patrick, Joe Rusciano and more were amongst those, making a total of 39 late models present.  Steve Dobbratz worked his way through the field patiently and took his second career late model feature win here tonight.  Always one of the quickest timers anywhere, he also races weekly at Columbus and will even search out other places to race.  A true throwback to the old time racers who "just want to race".  Steve is currently second in points at both tracks.  His crew chief, Alan Schade, ran the other team car and was leading the semi-feature when during caution the car up and quit on him.  Alan has done some racing in street stocks and also raced a late model for Duane Deppe a couple years ago on occasion.
     Had to be impressed with Jerry Eckhardt as well.  Racing what is likely one of the older cars in the field, Jerry finished second and was continuously in the hunt.  Jerry races weekly at Columbus and Jefferson, then fields his own super late and limited late on Sundays at Slinger.  Very busy racer, and another of the old school who just can't get enough racing.  These drivers both run the youngsters ragged!
     The other divisions at Jefferson didn't have so many visitors, but still had very strong fields.  All told, it was reported that 136 cars competed on this night. Many tracks are struggling mightily with low car counts, but that isn't evident here.
     Sunday night I went with a friend to Slinger, my first time there in over a year.  Nice to see the old veterans still racing here as well, as the aforementioned Jerry Eckhardt, Conrad Morgan, Al Schill, Lowell Bennett, Tony Strupp and others still regularly tour the high banks here and win.  Right now David Prunty seems to be the man, however, as the defending track champion seems poised at another title.  Prunty took the feature win in convincing fashion.  Wonder how it would have been if Lowell Bennett had been in the chase, however.  He was involved in a opening lap crash which took him out.  Starting on the front row, it would have been tough to beat him.
     Nice to see Tyler James get the limited late model feature win.  Racing in a pack of cars, Tyler showed great poise in never relinquishing the lead, and went on to win his second feature here. 
     Enjoyed talking with the newest driver in the modified division here, eighteen year old Matt Clossey of Beloit.  Matt is the son of Joel Clossey, who raced modifieds at Madison several years ago, and also raced Mid-Am style sportsman cars and late models.  Matt told me that this was his first race in the mod, but he does have some racing experience, as he has raced karts in the W.K.A touring series for the past four years.  Matt looked good out there, and after starting last, finished eighth.
    Great to meet several new drivers I've seen race before but never had a chance to talk to, including Mike Strupp, Dan Jung, Chris Beine and enjoyed talking with mod driver Ron Schmitt, as well, as Ron formerly raced a street stock at Columbus a few years ago.  Good people and a fun night!
   Hoping for a dry week, and starting off our weekend with trips to Wausau, Columbus, 141 and Sunday unknown.  Stay tuned!

8/12/2007

    Thursday night we took the trip up to Wausau and the State Park Speedway.  When we left home it was a beautiful day out, but as we approached the track we ran into dark clouds and a few sprinkles.  It cleared off nicely by race time, however.  The gloomy sky at just about the time people would leave to go to the track most likely kept the crowd down.
     The racing was once again good.  With so many tracks having trouble getting two grooves of racing surface and the close competition of cars nowadays, passing is sometimes at a premium almost everywhere.  Not the case here!  There are definitely two racing grooves and the winners very seldom come from the front row.  Lots of passing and a good show, just need more cars.  Hopefully word will get around and the car count will bounce upward, because this is a very racey track.
     Jesse Haase padded his super late model point lead a bit by taking the feature win.  He and second place point man Cale Laessig got together early in the race, with Laessig showing his displeasure a bit after.  I understand his car had gotten wrecked last week at another track and it looked off a bit, as he was fighting the car most of the race.  Wayne Mackesy looked smooth in garnering second, while Laessig had to hold off a charging Brad Guralski for third. 
    Brad Guralski was pleased with the run afterward, saying, "I'm just happy to load the car up with no damage.  It worked well.  It was nice to finally be able to accelerate off the corners well."
    Only one sportsman car was on hand tonight, that being point leader Joe Monti.  He then ran with the late models.  Joe has now run the car as an area sportsman, a Mid-Am car, and now as a late model!
    The Cenex Mini-Stocks had a runaway winner, as Adam Eckes broke free early on and cruised to the feature win.  This would be a good division for some of the Jefferson Internationals to run with.  Would like to see some make the trip up to run here, it's a fun track with good competition, and the staff and racers here are very welcoming to newcomers.  This would also be a good place for some of the lesser-funded super late teams to have a good chance at a good feature finish.
     At Columbus on Friday I didn't get a chance to see too many races, as a friend was racing one of my Bandit cars and I was concentrating on that.  Very interesting special drivers meeting for the Bandit class and crews, owners, etc.  Pete Moore set the tone for what is expected out of this division, a good move.
    Got to watch Aaron Falbe get the feature win in the late models.  He did it the hard way, passing on the outside, a very clean run by a good driver.  Well deserved victory, his first since 2003 I am told.  He has looked strong the past few weeks, so it really isn't a surprise.  
    Saturday, likewise, I didn't see all the races, as we once again had the car out in the Bandit division here.  Saw Dylan Schuyler get the late model feature win over a very strong Casey Johnson, who had to settle for second after leading a long time.  Great to see a lot of new late models out, including the return of Luke Westenberg.  Had a chance to catch up with Paul Dygon, who told me this was his first ever time on this track.  Paul and his Daughter, Carrie, were regulars at Lake Geneva Raceway, and now that track is gone, so there are many drivers still searching for a place to run.  Paul also told me that this was his first outing of the season.
     Veteran late model pilot Jerry Eckhardt had a very good run on the high groove, and he was extremely difficult to pass.  He even rode the wall on turn 3-4 once and kept it going, a move that most drivers would have lost control and wrecked.  You can only get that kind of driving after racing for, say, 40 plus years.  Man, that guy can wheel a race car!
   Kyle Padfield won the Bandit feature, and rookie Mark Dewey had a great run, leading until the final lap.  Good to see some new faces at the front of the feature.
   Everyone kind of hung around after the races at Jefferson on Saturday, a very hot night and all seemed ready to relax in the cooling night air.  Lightning was flashing off in the distance which later put a little more urgency to things.  After stopping for gas in Edgerton along with hobby stock racer Jimmy Robinson, we were told that a big storm was heading our way and would be along any minute.  Sure enough, only a few minutes later we were hit with the good 'ol sideways rain, hail and wind.  Let's just say the car didn't get unloaded until the next day! 

8/5/2007

    Friday night we took in the show at Madison International, part of which included the "Bob Schmelzer 100" feature race for the super late models.  The supers don't race here weekly anymore, but this track has always been a great track for these cars, as this division was the mainstay here for years upon years.
     The race was held in honor of Bob Schmelzer, his wife Darlene, and their whole family.  As far as Bob goes, he has been involved in the local motorsports scene for fifty years, and I doubt seriously that you could find anyone who could possibly have anything negative to say about him or his family, as they have always thought of others first.  Bob has been a fixture at many tracks, manning the pit sign in for many tracks all over the Midwest, and also for many traveling series shows throughout the country.  His involvement at Madison (then called Capital Speedway) goes back to when it opened in 1963.  The Schmeltzer's also ran the Columbus track from 1969-1974.   They always treated the drivers fairly.  I also know that Bob was quite honored with this gesture, and he would probably be the first to admit that it was always a complete family involvement.  Darlene did her usual, fixing up a whole bunch of food for the many who stopped by to congratulate.  Son, Gary, is a virtual genius when it comes to racing stats.  Hope the whole family stays involved in the sport as long as possible, and congrats on the longevity of involvement!
     The super late model feature paid $3,000 to win, a number in which you would think would bring many cars.  We and many others were shocked at the low number (14) who chose to participate.  It was also an excellent chance for some of the lesser-funded teams to compete.  I will put out a call to James Carlson and Jim Schmittinger, who showed up to run tonight, as well as all the other competitors who did so.
    The race itself was excellent, with Brian Hoppe getting out to a lead in the Jerry Wood owned machine.  I think most eyes were peeled in the direction of Nathan Haseleu, who looked to be the only man who could pose a challenge, and while he did get up to Hoppe's bumper, it really appeared he didn't have enough to get by, but he made a late run and had one chance to get a nose underneath him, made it work, and passed for the lead right at the end in a finish that had everyone standing.  Great race by a couple of clean drivers who really showed how it should be done!
    The Madison late models (crate motor) had their own share of problems again this week, as on a restart in the feature the leader got loose on the front straight and over corrected right into the path of the oncoming field, collecting mainly John Wood, who was running second at the time.  Too bad, too, because I think this would have been an equally exciting race to the end had this not happened.  Zack Riddle looked very strong in getting the victory. 
     Bobby Wilberg was a very busy driver, as he had three cars present tonight, a super late, Madison late and a limited late.  He won the limited late feature over Chad "Squirt" Stevens, who had a nice showing tonight.  As for Mr. Wilberg, he completed 196 laps, and in addition to the LLM win, finished second in the MLM feature and sixth in the SLM feature.  I joked with him that maybe he should have found a Bandit to race, too.  "No, I was pretty worn out, my arm was about ready to fall off.  We lost the power steering there (In the SLM) for about the last sixty laps."  Dan Lensing also pulled double duty, with a MLM and a SLM, with third and fourth place feature finishes.  Dan got his start a few years back in a limited late at Columbus.  "I built that first car, because my Dad wanted me to learn it all.  When I look back now, it's a wonder the car even went around the track, with knowing what I know now, I just have to laugh,"  Said Dan.  He has really come a long ways, and has raced at a wide variety of tracks and different series now.  Other drivers to pull double duty included Andrew Morrissey and Nathan Haseleu.
     Bobby Selsing Jr. won the Bandit feature to close the gap in the points chase between himself and Steve Dickson.  Should go right down to the wire.
     Nathan Oppliger had his car catch fire in the MLM feature, while Paul Treuthardt was a victim of a bout with the wall in hot laps.  Paul was able to manage a smile afterward, setting about to try to repair the car enough to at least start the feature.  Paul gave up the seat to Jason Tyler who earlier had his car break in hot laps.
    Gary Krueger brought out his "Rent-A-Bandit", but couldn't find a driver to rent the machine, so he had to race it himself.  There, now we all know who the mystery driver was in the #04 car!   

7/29/07

    We started off a weekend of racing on Friday night with a short drive to the Madison International Speedway, with several divisions on hand tonight.
    The Madison Late Models were the most trouble plagued, with several cars getting torn up, including a violent four car deal off turn two, and an incident with one driver being sent to the back of the pack not once, but twice.  Needless to say, said driver was anything but pleased.  That's the way racing goes, sometimes!  Andrew Morrissey took the win, and he has been having a great year in '07.  Someone who should also be mentioned here is Nathan Oppliger, who recorded a sixth place feature finish, which I think might be his best yet.  He did this by keeping out of trouble and keeping the car in one piece.
    The Limited Lates ran as part of the Big 8 series, with a field of 30 cars starting.  Dennis Schmidt had an early end to his night as his car failed him during hot laps.
    Spoke with MIS regular Cliff Rucks.  Cliff is racing the former Ken Piotrowski car.  He enjoys racing here at MIS, saying, "I really like it here, it's a class operation.  The only thing I wish is that they would go to a one tire per night rule.  Some of the big boys here are bolting on a new set every night, and I could do that, but won't.  It's just spending too much money."  Cliff still runs very well.
    Talked with Joel Soenksen's car owner Al Duerst.  The previous week this team loaned out their car to Mike Ehde at the Dells, with Mike promptly winning the feature.  "People asked me, how I could do that, loan out the car to another driver, but, hey, it's what you do.  He was third in points and needed a car, so we worked out a deal and we all benefited from it.  Joel went up in the stands to watch that night and said he learned a bunch just from another perspective."  Joel has won some features with the car, too.
     Maybe the most impressive drive tonight was turned in by Jimmy Robinson in the Hobby Stocks.  Jim started his heat at the rear and came through to get the win there, then once again started at the tail of the feature and came through the pack, edging out Rodger Stephenson at the line for the win.  It is always fun to watch your feature winner come from the tail.  With these victories, Jim recorded his 99th and 100th career race wins.
     The Big 8 event ran pretty smoothly, the Hobby Stocks ran well, and also the four cylinder International class.  This class is made up mostly of Rockford Short Tracker cars, with a few of the old Jefferson International cars being dug out of barns and garages and running once again on the track.  This is good to see, as race cars shouldn't sit still!  The feature saw Aaron Rude gain his second feature win here in three tries this season, holding off Brent Nottestad and at one point passing his old car that was being driven by Scott Nottestad tonight.  Three cars in the top five were Ford Pintos.  I'd have to go back in time a ways to figure the last time I had seen that.
    the Bandit class here also runs pretty well, with minimal banging on this night.  Would like to see the slower cars get a chance to start up front in the feature, however, as on this night the fastest cars started up front.  They did run two heats, however, to give more drivers a chance to visit victory lane, a nice gesture.
     Saturday night we took a trip up to the Marshfield Super Speedway for their show.  Super Lates, Super Stocks, Pure Stocks and four cylinders were running on this night.  The show started a little inauspiciously with the track rental IROC Saturn's racing, with only two of the original six left running at the end.  One driver crashed into the pit entrance off turn 3-4, with another crashing head on into the 1-2 wall, pushing the whole front end back to the drivers compartment.  No injuries were reported, but  lots of CARnage.
    The regular show clicked off smoothly, as we were all done at 9:32 P.M.  The four cylinders saw a Father/Son duo battle it out, as Derk Hauser passed his Dad, Steve, late in one of the  heat races to take the win, then did the same in the feature.  No more sharing speed secrets with your kid!
     Nice to talk with Pure Stock racers Gary Haarklau and Coletta Gomes.  This pair makes the trip up from Sun Prairie every time this division races here, and also compete at Golden Sands.  They spend a lot of gas money to do their racing, but say they really enjoy racing with the folks "up north".  Gary stated, "You know me, I'll race any track anywhere, but I'd also like to get her (Coletta) some experience at various tracks."  I'd say they are definitely both doing just that!
     Kyle Genett owns the Pure Stock division here, as this young driver has several clean sweeps to his credit.  Getting his start on the dirt at the former Monster Hall Raceway, he has really done well with his transition to racing on the pavement.  He is undefeated in PS action here this season, qualifying, heats and features, doesn't matter, he is 21 for 21.  Time for a bounty??
     Jay VanDerGeest took the win in the super lates, his first of the year.  It was a strong field, too, as while the numbers were low, they were all quality cars.  Eugene Gregorich Jr. has dominated the division this year, but the competition seems to have caught up a bit as of late.  The Weinkauf brothers are always tough, and recently Jeremy Switlick won his first career SLM feature here as well.
    Speaking of the Switlicks, they always seem to outdo themselves every year with the appearance of their cars.  Words can't do justice to this, you just have to see them in person to believe it.

7/16/07

    Yup, I'm back!  At least on a hit-or-miss basis.  I've had many people tell me that they miss these writings, so as time permits, I'll give it a shot on occasion once again.  Thanks to Scott and Laurie Null for their patience!
    First off, I want to thank everyone who responded during my medical emergency.  Thanks to all the ambulance crews at Columbus and the doctors and staff at both the Columbus and UW Madison hospitals, and most of all, thanks to all the folks at Columbus 151 Speedway who saved my life!  I've tired to go along and personally thank most, but I know I've missed some, so to all, a big, heartfelt THANK YOU!
   I'm getting around to alot of different tracks now once again, which is great fun.  Took in a recent show at MIS, and enjoyed it greatly.  They really make you feel welcome here.  I enjoyed watching the International/American Short Tracker class racing, as this was a chance to catch up with a lot of people I hadn't seen in awhile.  Hope to make it back when this class runs again, as they did put on a great show.
   Have been attending races at Jefferson nearly every week.  Looks to be a battle in the late model division between Doug Hahn and Dylan Schuyler, as both of these drivers really seem to have it together.  Should be interesting as the year goes on.  There have also been some surprisingly strong runs by some others as well, goes to show that you never know how a season is going to play out.  Scott Lindsay has looked very strong this year in his first year of racing here.  Also nice to see Chuck Duncan running here weekly.  With Lake Geneva Raceway done for, many have been looking for another track to call home.
     This past Thursday we took in the show at State Park Speedway near Wausau.  What looked to be a beautiful day in southern Wisconsin turned into occasional showers further north.  It would rain and then the sun would come out, only to be constantly repeated.  We saw several rather beautiful rainbows.  Racing did get underway late, and they did run the show off in quick fashion, as it was one of those nights where you never knew when or if you were going to get more rain.  It was worth waiting for, as the super lates put on a good show in the feature, with veterans Wayne Breitenfeldt and Jesse Haase going at it side by side, with Mr. Haase getting the victory by a matter of inches.  Much like most tracks, the car counts here have been on the low side, but the racing has been very good.  You can't ask for more than a two car side by side feature finish!  I also think Travis Weisenbeck might have been in the fray as well, but he and his crew are trying to work out what they think to be a fuel related problem, as his car will occasionally cut out on him while racing.  He was chasing down the leaders and was on their bumpers, only to have the malady show itself at the most inopportune time.  Travis had earlier managed to garner his first career fast qualifying effort, so once they get this problem figured out, he should be a rocket!
     There has been perhaps more passing done at this track then most this year from what I have seen.  There definitely are two racing grooves.  Makes for some good racing.  Phil Malouf jumped from the pack quickly in the Cenex Mini-Stock feature and cruised home to the win, while fast timer Adam Eckes couldn't catch him.  Marshfield regular Randy Emmerich paid a visit in the sportsman division and walked away with the feature win, breaking Joe Monti's stranglehold on the division.  Nice to see Jim Annala hang in there with one of the old Bomber style cars that used to run here, a Ford Torino.  
     Good to see Brad Guralski in a late model, an older car that they believe once ran at Slinger.  It is one sharp ride!  Travis Dodson also has a great looking car, a maroon car with silver flames.  Unfortunately, Travis did some damage to this machine in a bout with the wall, but hopefully he'll have it back out soon.
     Friday we stayed closer to home and went to a familiar track, the Columbus 151 Speedway.  Dean Schultz won the LM main here, as he had to really work to pass veteran Rocky Breezer, no easy task.  Dean is kind of separating himself from the competition, as he is showing why he is the defending track champion.  He is among the many veterans racing here, in fact, this might be the most veteran laden late model division anywhere.  You have Ron Bishofberger, Jerry Eckhardt, Rocky Breezer, Butch Mierendorf on occasion, and many others with so many years of racing experience.
     One of the best features of the evening was in the visiting Formula Indy Association feature.  John Zeilinga ran out to a huge lead, but you had to keep your eye out on Vern Brown, who often dominates here.  Sure enough, he finally broke free and chased down Zeilinga, just barely nipping him at the line.  Also want to send get well wishes to Jim Bass, who was injured in a crash at Rockford July 3rd.
    There has to be a little drama in every show, and tonight it was in the hobby stock feature, where the two lead cars were going at it late in the race, with one car ending up in the wall and the other disqualified.  Third place runner Tim Lange motored past the checkers for an unexpected feature win.  You never know what will happen in racing.... That is the beauty of it.
     Saturday we took a trip to Dells Raceway Park.  My friend Brian Paulson has been racing my car in my absence, and wanted to give it a try.  The 2003 track champion here and at Columbus, he knows how to get around a track.  In the Bandit class they tried something a little bit different to try to shake up the ranks and give the slower cars more of a chance, so they started them from a standing start, and staggered their starting position on the track, as slowest timer was by the start/finish line, and fast timer just in front of them, nearly a lap down, with the others in between.  Most drivers didn't seem to like it, although I think everyone gave it a shot and perhaps warmed up to the idea a bit.  I know one thing, the racing was very clean, I think we might have had one tire mark on the car all evening, and that's not too bad!  Brian won the heat race and dedicated the win to me, Thanks, Brian!  Nice job.  Terry Lafleur won the feature race, defeating Bob Armstrong, who had offered up a $50 bounty to any newcomer showing up at the Dells and winning on the first try.  However, word is that he has withdrawn this offer with the new starting method.
     Just like the other night, the super stocks here had an unexpected winner, with the two leaders of their feature colliding, with Dave Swanson going on to win after running in third.  You gotta love this racing!  You just never know....
     James Kruschke III won the limited late feature, with Rocky Breezer getting his second runner-up feature finish in consecutive nights.  Ross Kenseth did a nice job in getting fifth in his first race here.  He has run a couple of times at Columbus, and it appears he is chartering the path his Dad took by starting his racing at the same tracks Dad did.
     Young Kyle Shear took the Mid-Am feature win, his first.  I really like this series, a good mix of seasoned veterans and young talent.  Wausau sportsman racer Joe Monti made his first Mid-Am start tonight.
     Sunday we took in a special show at Luxemburg.  Yes, I know Luxemburg usually runs Friday nights, but this show was kind of taking the place of the weekly show at Seymour, which wasn't racing because of their fair.  I was a little surprised at only eighteen late models, but it still was a good show and a chance to see some drivers I rarely see or have never seen.  Nick Anvelink got the win.  I figured Russ Scheffler would have it won, as he started on the pole, but it didn't happen.
     Benji LaCrosse won the IMCA Mod feature.  This was my first chance to ever see Benji race, and he is smooth!  The show was run off fast tonight, with the only feature having a few yellows being the SportMods.  Everything was finished about nine O'clock, outstanding for a Sunday show.  I'd go back again.  

04/01/2007

    Writing this particular column is something that is kind of hard to do, not because I can't think of anything to say, actually quite the opposite... I don't know where to begin with all I want to say!
    It is hard to stop doing something that you've been doing for seventeen years, but as of this column, I plan to retire from writing for any publication or website on a regular basis, so Ramblin' will be no more!  I may still do something for FasTrax magazine on occasion, but not sure and no promises (Or threats!) 
    I first wrote this column for the Checkered Flag Racing News back on March 7, 1990.  On a part time basis at first, I never realized how it would take off or that I would become a regular contributor.  I'd like to thank Jim Cleveland for helping me get started in this endeavor, and John and Doris Quinn helped greatly in putting up with some of the low tech columns I did in those old days, as when I started out, I was hand writing these words and sending via regular mail! 
    With the demise of CFRN a couple of years ago I was left with nowhere to go as far as writing goes, and Scott and Laurie Null graciously offered to fill that void and let me continue writing weekly on their website.  Thanks guys!  You've been true friends over the years and will continue to be!  At about the same time I also began writing monthly for FasTrax, of which I need to publicly thank Denny Bandt for his help.  Denny has been really easy to work with and is always improving the magazine. 
     The reason for this is because I am at the point in my life where there are certain things that need to be worked on before I become too old, and one of those things is my dream of putting together a book on Wisconsin's short track racers, with a little history thrown in.  I want to concentrate on this and see what happens.  Maybe it will never be completed or ever see the light of day, but I won't know until I try!  This and other projects will be keeping me pretty busy, but maybe also allow me to kick back in the stands sometimes and just catch some good old racing action everywhere!  I will still be cruising the pits on occasion so stop me and say "Hi".
     I feel fortunate to have been involved in all of these endeavors over the years.  I've learned a lot. (Like how fast you forget your spelling and punctuation after school!).  I've met many wonderful people, and have even been told I have helped people garner sponsorship and even helped further a few racing careers!  Pretty heady stuff!  I've also been thanked often for not writing only about the top drivers, but giving all equal time and looking out for the so called small-time racer.  I've tried to always write about things that would interest me, thinking that others would find it equally interesting, and that has served me well. 
    Although I can't thank him in person, I have to publicly thank former columnist and racing guru Bob Bergeron, who even in his days of failing health would compliment me on my writings and brag me up.  We talked on occasion via phone or e-mail.  Bob was actually an inspiration to me, and I hope he's looking down from Heaven on us all with a smile on his face.  Thanks, Bob!
    Thanks to all the readers who sent me letters of appreciation for something I did or wrote on over the years, or info. I asked for.  Believe me, these letters are most cherished!
    Thanks to Bob and Darlene Schmelzer for their great friendship.  Bob helped to get me recognized in the racing industry as a writer, and their Son, Gary, has helped immeasurably with stats and column ideas over the years, but most important, FRIENDSHIP!  Thanks to all!
     Thanks to the Moore family at Columbus 151 Speedway and Wayne Hook as well.  This was the first track to recognize me as a writer, even before I ever had an official press card.  Never heard any complaints from anyone with what I have written about this facility, so I must have done okay! 
    Thanks to all the drivers that I've had the pleasure of meeting and writing about over the years.  99.9% of the drivers were 99.9% friendly 99.9% of the time.  Can't get much better percentages than that.  Thanks to all for beverages, hats, shirts, photo cards, and also for help when I started racing myself.  You know who you are! 
    Although I've written primarily about Columbus, Jefferson, Wausau, Lake Geneva  and MIS over the years, I think I've written about every paved track in the state during my career, as well as several dirt tracks in Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota and Illinois.  I've also done some stuff on Rockford Speedway, so I didn't just cover Wisconsin, but tried to do a little of everything about everyone.  Thanks to anyone I've missed at these tracks!
    I've done quite a bit of writing about Central Wisconsin drivers, and that is because I've always been treated as family in this area as well.  So to all the drivers and fans at Wausau's State Park Speedway, Marshfield, Golden Sands and others, thanks for welcoming this "Southerner"!
   I also want to thank the various track PR people and writers from other areas I've come to know.  Dan Plan from "Minnesota's Racing Connection" actually told me once that I helped inspire his writing career.  Now that helmet will never fit on my head!  Curt Keene, Deb Klockziem, Steve Parsons and Adam Glatczack also have been of great help when in the central Wisconsin area.  All are talented people and good friends.
    I also have to thank Jefferson/Columbus announcer Randy Kamenick, who I consider one of the best racing announcers anywhere.  Randy has always been a great help in anything, and actually got me behind the wheel of a race car for the first time when he let me hot lap his Lions Club car several years ago.  He then helped me get started racing the four cylinder Bandit's by helping to setup a ride in the Tina Remsik car in 2002.  One thing led to another and I am still racing!  Thanks for everything, Randy!  Sorry about the picture!
     Of course, thanks to the readers of anything I have written over the years.  There is no point in writing if nobody is reading it!  Thanks to all of you!
    And a final, heartfelt thanks to my Wife, Deb, who I think has patiently proofread just about everything I've ever written.  All with no pay!  Also for putting up with me! 

10/30/2006

    Trick Or Treat!  We were able to get one last race in this year, as on Saturday, October 28th we took the old Geo over to the Lake Geneva Raceway to race in the "Run What Ya Brung" show, where the only rules are safety.  Everything else goes.  This was also the final ever race at this historic track, as it will now be shut down and developed into housing. 

     The cars were divided into classes, A, B, and C, as well as a separate group for the Mini-Mods and the vintage racers.  The "A" group encompassed some of the super lates and limited lates, both dirt and pavement, sprint cars, modifieds and whatever else was fastest.  Ken Johnson had one of the more radical rides, with a sprint car engine and huge wings, and he set fast time with this machine.  However, the feature belonged to Wayne Freimund, who stated afterward that he had won features at some other area tracks, but never here, and it meant a great deal to win the finale.  Landry Potter was on his tail most of the way, but couldn't get by, while Johnson had to settle for third.
     Surprise winner of the night had to be Jason Jensen, as he took his dirt modified to victory lane in the "B" feature.  Sonny Schoffen appeared to be untouchable, as he had the race seemingly in hand, but during a late caution his RF suspension failed, ending his night and giving the lead to Jensen, who made the most of it.  Afterward, Jensen said that this was his first win ever.  A very memorable night indeed!
    Class "C" was made up of four cylinder racers, with Vincent Merry dominating with his four cylinder truck.  This division formerly raced here on a semi-regular basis, but now races at Wilmot.  Vincent also races a super late model here on Saturday nights, so he is very familiar with the track.  Dale Gustum had the other truck, while the rest were made up of BIC, Bandit, International and various other types of four cylinder racers.  At least two were running nitrous, with varying degrees of success.
    The vintage racers really got it on, with even a little paint trading.  John Janssen took the win in his Earnhardt '64 Chevelle, over John Vassh in his Marcis Dodge Charger.  One of the more unusual cars was the Studebaker of Frank Slabanek.   A Studebaker Hawk if I am correct.
    Only three Mini-Mods showed, with Nick Pestka getting the final win for this group.  A trailer race brought down the curtain on the nights events.
    Overall, I would have thought more cars would have showed up to race, with approximately sixty-seven total.  A fair crowd showed, but once again, I thought there would have been more fans as well.  A chance to either race or witness the final event at a track which has been run as an oval since 1966, and as a drag strip since about 1963.  It was cold out, yes, but here was a chance to be a part of history.  I am proud to say that I was there, and raced on this night.  It was bunch of fun, racing with good people.  It is not something that I will ever forget.
     Promoter Kevin Dawson addressed the drivers meeting, saying that he appreciated the drivers and fans who showed up on this final night.  I think he may have been a little disappointed in the numbers of race cars that showed.  I think he wonders on the sometimes lack of support for local racing, something I wonder about, too, sometimes.  Hey, this is way better than anything on TV! 
    I have been to many racing events here as a fan, and raced here three times in my career.  All of it was good.  The racing was always good, the drivers were always a pleasure to race with, very clean racing on a  nice, wide, big track.  I was happy to meet some new people even on this final night, and hope to see both old and new acquaintances at another track somewhere next season.  It was a blast to be a part of the final racing event here, and yes, I got lapped by many, but didn't finish last, even got a top ten!  I thought the four cylinder drivers did an excellent job, I was proud to be on the track with them! 
     I will never forget "LGR", as will many others.
10/02/2006
    This past weekend we took in the "Final Fall Classic" at the Lake Geneva Raceway, final, as the track will be closed at the end of the season forever to make way for a housing development.
    Thursday was a kind of  fun day, with mechanics races and powder puff events, big wheel races for kids, a vintage car race, spectator one on one racing, and a kind of neat deal in which fans could take their personal street vehicles out for a couple of timed laps to see how they could do, with every participant receiving a certificate with their times on it.  Pretty novel idea, one in which I had to try myself.  
     Friday was the "Small car championships", which I didn't attend, but heard the rainy night didn't allow for all events to be completed.  Likewise, rain also threw a monkey wrench into things on Saturday, with a ton of cars needing to qualify, but with rain hitting late in hot laps, delayed the whole process by at least an hour.  However, things did turn out okay, as pretty much everything was able to be completed, even though it was a bit past the curfew... But, hey, what are they going to do, shut the place down???
     Qualifying made for some surprises, especially in the super lates, with track champion Eddie May failing to make the show, as well as Jamie Iverson, who towed all the way down from the U.P.  Pat Kelly would turn in the quickest time for the division.  Both Iverson and May would have to race their way into the big show on Sunday via the last chance races, which they did.  Eddie Hoffman, Steve Carlson, Rich Bickle and Jeremy Lepak all made the show by time and didn't have to worry.  Veteran Tom Jones came back in the Len Nowosel ride for one last  race at the track, but failed to make the feature.  Nice to see Tom out there, however!
      Sunday brought forth said last chance races, while the sprint cars qualified, with Tim Cox setting a new ultimate lap time of 14.186.  Tim later would come back and take the feature win, while his Son, Jason, would race for the first time in a sprinter on asphalt, bringing home a third place feature finish.
     Perhaps the best feature of the weekend was in the modified division, which featured several dirt mods taking on their asphalt counterparts who normally race weekly at Slinger.  Several more showed up on Sunday after racing at Chilton on Saturday to bump up the car count even more, as Tim Bell won the event in a dirt car, which he said was also his first feature win ever.  He had to hold off Wes Biswell and Dale Prunty to get the win, with Biswell appearing to have the upper edge at least a couple of times, once being thwarted in his efforts by a caution flag which put him back behind Bell.  Very nice job of driving by Bell, however, who guided his sharp black and silver flamed car to the big win.
     The Wisconsin Sport Trucks ran a feature both on Saturday and Sunday, with Kyle Quella taking the win on Saturday in a day that just plain belonged to him, while the next day his luck ran out, as he didn't seem to be able to get to the front, and to add insult to injury, rolled his mount over on the last lap and last turn of the feature.  Dan Vixmer claimed the win on Sunday.
     The four cylinder BIC feature belonged to track champion Steve Doherty, in an event which saw a little bit of everything, while the pure stock/enduro class saw a large difference in qualifying times, with several enduro cars running with the stock cars from various tracks.  Jim Robinson turned in fast time and then used a lapped car to take the lead and win away from Jim Tate Jr., who dropped to third behind Robinson and Brian Piller. 
     The Street Stock division saw track champion Adam Regnier take the feature win in an event which was pretty much trouble free.  This division always put on a good show here, and hopefully they will be racing as a group at some area tracks next season, as there are plenty of cars and they do a nice job.
     The Super Street Stock class was designed for Sportsman type cars from various tracks, with Jefferson/Madison regular Chico Riedner taking the win.  The car count in this division was one of the lowest, which was surprising, considering Jefferson has so many cars which are so close to the track.  Some surprise entries however, as Minnesotan Bryan Turtle was present, along with the Lions club car of Dean Baumbach, and a couple of real sharp vintage cars ran in this group.  Only seven cars were still racing at the end of the feature, as they just seemed to keep dropping out.
    The Mid-Am cars brought forth a strong field, with John Senerchia dropping out early while leading the event.  Jeremy Spoonmore won, as several of the top finishers were drivers who had competed at the track often in the weekly shows.  Their experience at the track really showed.
     The most trouble plagued feature was in the Big-8 Limited Late Models, as one car dropped a bunch of fluid on the track, requiring a very lengthy cleanup, as black clouds and lightning could be seen in the distance.  Michael Bilderback held off his uncle, Ricky, to take his first career LLM feature win, all at the age of fifteen!  Michael has already turned a bunch of laps here and at other tracks, however, as he has raced extensively in Bandolero and Legends cars as well.
     While some might say the Super Late Model feature was boring, it really wasn't.  Rich Bickle led from start to finish, yes, but it was anything but easy, as Eddie Hoffman was working on him, and a surprising Brandon Hill was right in the thick of things, putting a ton of pressure on the two wily veterans.  Further back, you had to keep your eyes on Jamie Iverson and Eddie May, as the pair started way in back after making their way from the last chance races to finish sixth and seventh respectively.  One has to wonder if they had timed in faster and started closer to the front, would one of them won the event? 

09/25/2006

    Another wet weekend in Wisconsin!  We made the trip north to Marshfield for their annual Fall Spectacular on Saturday, leaving home under a light rain which continued over half-way there.  Finally as we approached Marshfield the skies looked more promising, even some blue sky and a little sunshine.  Would luck be with us?

    Upon entering the track we learned from many that rain was expected, and had even been surrounding the track.  Things went on as planned, even though it took longer to accomplish, as Friday's show had also been cancelled by the wet stuff, leaving a couple of extra divisions to qualify and race on this night.
    Thirty-seven super lates took to the track, with Mark Eswein proving a point by setting a new track record.  Brian Back was in the Rick Grunden machine, while Justin Switlick was behind the wheel of the Wisz Brothers entry.  Plan was to run the SLM last chance race right away and get the field set for their 100 lap feature later.  With the apparent winner failing post-race inspection, Travis Sauter recorded the official win in this race, which went largely trouble-free otherwise.
     The super stocks had a very large field of cars, thirty-four by my count, with several visitors from various tracks.  Many of the track regulars were here, as well as several Dells cars, as well as some from Golden Sands and LaCrosse. 
     The mini-stocks had a large field as well, with many regulars in attendance, as well as Wausau track champ Chad Dietsche.  141 Speedway regular Allen Dillon was also present, fresh from setting fast time and winning the mini-stock feature at the Jefferson show the week before.  This was the only division to fail to get their heat races in on this night.
     The street stocks didn't have huge numbers, but the Columbus cars of Tim Syvrud, Tony Showers and Derek Childs were present.  Their heat was a good one, with Syvrud taking the lead and ultimate win, but A.J. Kania gaining fast.  The feature here would be a good one!
     The pure stocks had decent numbers as well, with the fast heat on the grid when the rains finally put a stop to the show.  Jefferson/Columbus regular Larry Moen had fast time.  Wide variety of cars here.
     Nice field of limited late models here, with many Kaukauna cars.  Bragging rights would go for now to the LaCrosse Speedway, as Kevin Nuttleman set fast time.  Jim Syvrud was present from Columbus, with several cars also from the Dells area.  The team cars of Kurt Clapper and Nick Nolden were present, with Kurt gaining a heat race win.  I had a chance to