2016 FL/GA Speedweeks Schedule

Date	Division	Series	Track	$$$	Winner
Jan 28	Crates	Nesmith	Bubba Raceway Park	$2,000	RAIN
Jan 28	Modifieds	SSMT	East Bay Raceway Park	$1,500	RAIN
Jan 29	Crates	Nesmith	Bubba Raceway Park	$2,500	Josh Richards
Jan 29	Modifieds	SSMT	East Bay Raceway Park	$1,500	Kevin Adams
Jan 30	Crates	Nesmith	Bubba Raceway Park (twins)	$3,000	Kyle Bronson
Jan 30	Crates	Nesmith	Bubba Raceway Park (twins)	$10,000	Dennis Franklin
Jan 30	Modifieds	SSMT	East Bay Raceway Park	$5,000	Mike Van Genderen
Jan 31	Modifieds	SSMT	East Bay Raceway Park	$1,500	Roger Crouse
Feb 1	Modifieds	SSMT	East Bay Raceway Park	$1,000	Kyle Bronson
Feb 3	Modifieds	SDMS	Golden Isles Speedway	$1,500	Nick Hoffman
Feb 4	Crates		East Bay Raceway Park		RAIN
Feb 4	SLM	Lucas	Golden Isles Speedway	$7,000	RAIN (PPD 2/6)
Feb 4	Modifieds	SDMS	Golden Isles Speedway	$2,000	RAIN
Feb 4	Modifieds	SSMT	North Florida Speedway	$1,500	RAIN
Feb 5	410's	ASCoC	Bubba Raceway Park	$5,000	Kraig Kinser
Feb 5	Modifieds	SSMT	Bubba Raceway Park	$1,500	Tait Davenport
Feb 5	Crates		East Bay Raceway Park	$2,500	Max Blair
Feb 5	SLM	Lucas	Golden Isles Speedway	$10,000	Josh Richards
Feb 5	Modifieds	SDMS	Golden Isles Speedway	$3,000	Kyle Strickler
Feb 5	Crates	Nesmith	Golden Isles Speedway	$2,500	Chase Edge
Feb 6	410's	ASCoC	Bubba Raceway Park	$5,000	RAIN
Feb 6	Modifieds	SSMT	Bubba Raceway Park	$3,000	RAIN
Feb 6	Crates		East Bay Raceway Park		RAIN
Feb 6	SLM	Lucas	Golden Isles Speedway	$7,000	Jonathan Davenport
Feb 6	Modifieds	SDMS	Golden Isles Speedway	$2,000	Nick Hoffman
Feb 7	SLM	Lucas	Golden Isles Speedway	$15,000	Josh Richards
Feb 7	Modifieds	SDMS	Golden Isles Speedway	$4,000	Nick Hoffman
Feb 7	Crates	Nesmith	Golden Isles Speedway	$3,000	David Smith
Feb 7	SLM		North Florida Speedway	$5,000	RAIN
Feb 7	Modifieds	SSMT	North Florida Speedway	$2,000	RAIN
Feb 8	SLM	Lucas	East Bay Raceway Park	$5,000	Josh Richards
Feb 9	SLM	Lucas	East Bay Raceway Park	$7,000	Josh Richards
Feb 9	Modifieds		Volusia Speedway Park	$1,000	Nick Hoffman
Feb 10	SLM	Lucas	East Bay Raceway Park	$7,000	Jonathan Davenport
Feb 10	410's	ASCoC	Volusia Speedway Park	$5,000	Dave Blaney
Feb 10	Modifieds		Volusia Speedway Park	$1,000	Nick Hoffman
Feb 11	SLM	Lucas	East Bay Raceway Park	$7,000	Scott Bloomquist
Feb 11	410's	ASCoC	Volusia Speedway Park	$5,000	Donny Schatz
Feb 11	Modifieds		Volusia Speedway Park	$1,000	Tyler Nicely
Feb 12	SLM	Lucas	East Bay Raceway Park	$10,000	Jonathan Davenport
Feb 12	SLM	WoO LM	Screven Motor Speedway	$10,000	Shane Clanton
Feb 12	410's	WoO	Volusia Speedway Park	$10,000	Brad Sweet
Feb 12	Modifieds		Volusia Speedway Park	$1,000	Trent Young
Feb 13	SLM	Lucas	East Bay Raceway Park	$12,000	Mason Zeigler
Feb 13	SLM	WoO LM	Screven Motor Speedway	$10,000	Rick Eckert
Feb 13	410's	WoO	Volusia Speedway Park	$10,000	Donny Schatz
Feb 13	Modifieds		Volusia Speedway Park	$700	Nick Hoffman
Feb 14	SLM	Lucas	Bubba Raceway Park	$10,000	Jonathan Davenport
Feb 14	410's	WoO	Volusia Speedway Park	$10,000	Brad Sweet
Feb 14	Modifieds		Volusia Speedway Park	$700	Brian Ruhlman
Feb 15	SLM		Volusia Speedway Park	$7,000	Billy Moyer, Jr
Feb 15	Modifieds		Volusia Speedway Park	$5,000	Nick Hoffman
Feb 16	SLM		Volusia Speedway Park	$7,000	Josh Richards
Feb 16	Modifieds		Volusia Speedway Park (triple 20's)	$600	Ray Bollinger Justin Allagier Derrick Ramey
Feb 17	SLM		Volusia Speedway Park	$7,000	Scott Bloomquist
Feb 17	Big Blocks	SDS	Volusia Speedway Park	$2,000	Tim Fuller
Feb 18	NW 410's	USAC	Bubba Raceway Park	$5,000	Bryan Clauson
Feb 18	360's		East Bay Raceway Park	$2,000	Jason Sides
Feb 18	SLM	WoO LM	Volusia Speedway Park	$10,000	Josh Richards
Feb 18	Big Blocks	SDS	Volusia Speedway Park	$2,000	Matt Sheppard
Feb 19	NW 410's	USAC	Bubba Raceway Park	$5,000	Robert Ballou
Feb 19	360's		East Bay Raceway Park	$2,000	Terry McCarl
Feb 19	Big Blocks	WoO LM	Volusia Speedway Park	$10,000	Josh Richards
Feb 19	Big Blocks	SDS	Volusia Speedway Park	$2,000	Rick Laubach
Feb 20	NW 410's	USAC	Bubba Raceway Park	$5,000	Thomas Meseraull
Feb 20	360's		East Bay Raceway Park	$10,000	Terry McCarl
Feb 20	SLM	WoO LM	Volusia Speedway Park	$10,000	Shane Clanton
Feb 20	Big Blocks	SDS	Volusia Speedway Park	$5,000	Brett Hearn

4 Series You Can't Pass Up In 2016 That Are Completely Wallet Friendly- Volume 1

As passionate, die hard dirt fans, we love this time of year. The schedules are coming out, we're marking our calendars in anticipation. And somewhere in the middle of the season, the car breaks down, a daughter gets married, or some unplanned mini financial disaster happens and your expectations must change.  

Let's face it, we're not always going to have $40 to $50 to catch a World Of Outlaw or Lucas Oil Series show every week, let alone take our families.  However, it doesn't mean that we should go without decent racing. And if the truth is to be told, these series we're about to talk about feature racing that is every bit as exciting as the national series. And also, the money you pay to get in, goes to drivers who may need it a little more to keep going and putting on shows. 

The all have several things in common. They typically headline a full card of racing or are part of a special show featuring multiple divisions for a decent price, the fold able series concept if you will. Fans can enjoy all of these and still get a full night of racing action, and see a full field of cars at nearly a regular ticket price or perhaps no more than a few dollars more. And those fans can also get a glimpse of something their home track doesn't offer on a weekly basis.  The secret? They all manage their costs in an efficient manner and don't carry huge sanction fees.  

Pat Miller Photo

And if you see a series that isn't listed here, no worries, we're already working on the next four which we'll have out shortly!  So if these guys are coming to your home track, don't miss them! Odds are you'll be talking about how much fun you had long after the checkered flag falls! 

MVT Boss Wingless Sprints

The Skinny: They're wild, wingless, and amazing to watch, and are totally engaging with the fans with free souvenirs to boot! The Mo Vaughn Trucking B.O.S.S sprints typically grace the clay in the Ohio valley from Indiana to Pennsylvania and they put on a great show! The great part about these guys, is that it's got some regulars who follow the 20+ race schedule, and when USAC takes a night off, there's often a few top names joining the cast. 

Plus, your home town winged sprint guys have the option of taking off that wing and joining the fun too, often with great results! But even on a regular night at a track that doesn't run wingless sprints as part of a weekly show, they're a special treat, often going three wide and running wheel to wheel, and the finishes have been too close to call on more than one occasion. If they're on the schedule at your track, make it a point to be there! 


Website:  Mo Vaughn Trucking Buckeye Outlaw Sprint Series

On Twitter:  @MVTsBOSS

BRP Modified Tour

The Skinny: Can't make it to New York? Love Modifieds? Are you within an hour or two of Eastern OH, Western PA? Then don't miss these, you'll end up regretting it! For over 15 years, the BRP Modified Tour has delighted fans with real big block racing at an affordable price! There's even one at a fair where your admission price gets you into the races free more or less, and it's a huge track! The drivers come from what we've called the Western Frontier of the big block/358 modified spectrum, and they let it all hang out on tracks that are sometimes a little wider and racier than some other traditional modified hot beds. 

Oyler Photography

There's always a full field, and sometimes up to 35 of them all vying for a decent $2,000 to $5,000 to win top purse. And for those who've never seen the typical north eastern modified, this is a great way to get acquainted.  They typically run nine or 10 shows a year, but there's more drama at work here as a win or a bad night can alter their share of the points fund at the years end. Be sure to check out the crown jewel at the annual Lou Blaney Memorial at Sharon Speedway on July 9th as they share the card with the All Star Sprints in what is probably the best dual show in the east! Come watch tour regulars Rex King Jr. and Sr, Swartzlander, Bolland and more take on the best 358's in the area and several invaders from the Niagara area all looking to take home the honors! 


Website: Bicknell Racing Products Modified Tour

On Twitter:  @TheModTour

Ultimate Late Models

The Skinny: Conceived in 2011, the Ultimate Super Late Models have been growing steadily under the leadership of series director Kelley Carlton, and now feature a 26 date slate at tracks all over the south and mid atlantic.  Ticket prices still average around 12-20 dollars, and there's great fields of supers battling for $4,000 to win plus purses. You'll see Casey Roberts, Dennis "Rambo" Franklin and others taking on your track's hot shoe for bragging rights, and this is no time trial and line em up affair as there's heats to determine the feature starts. 

Robert Walden Photo

If you're willing to travel just a little further, there's a fantastic $15,000 to win show annually at the luxurious Virginia Motor Speedway in early June that attracts top names from both regions and a national true outlaw or two, and don't forget to make their end of the year bash at County Line Speedway in NC in November! 


Website:  Ultimate Super Late Model Series

On Twitter:  @UltimateSupers

Renegades of Dirt Modifieds

The Skinny: USMTS, IMCA..USRA, you've heard of these guys if you're into modifieds, but for those on the east coast, they seem so far away. Until a couple of years ago anyway. The names Strickler and Ramey have become national names in the modified ranks, and both are Renegades of DIRT champions. The series calls anywhere from Ohio to North Carolina home and has a variety of stops along the way, treating fans to excellent car counts and amazing racing! There's home track bragging rights on the line at many of their stops as well, and a nice point fund to keep drivers engaged in running the whole season. If they're on your home track's schedule, make it a point to hit it, you won't be disappointed. 

And do not miss their annual 100 lap crown jewel at Tyler County Speedway in West Virginia in early July! Make a three day weekend out of it, rent an RV and have the time of your life. You'll see almost more modifieds than can be counted culminating in a 100 lap (Mega 100) that has the potential to pay the winner $15,000! Plus lots of other racing on the card! 


Website: Renegades of Dirt Modifieds

On Twitter: @renegadesofdirt

Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic Pick'Em Contest Presented by Hoolagators Scoring Page

 

Coming into the final night, it was anybody's contest! These things traditionally end up very close and the first ever Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic Pick'Em Contest was no exception. American Ken Marks had a slightly better final night and became the first overall champion with 255 points! Right behind him, Darcy/AUS, took home the Australian honors as her countries champion with 249! Congrats to both Ken and Darcy for their performances. This was not an easy contest by any stretch and required knowledge about both sides of the 410 sprint equation.  We hope you enjoyed it, and hope it added a little excitement to your event pleasure! We'll be back in a short while for our 3rd Annual DIRTCar Nationals Pick'Em Contest!

FINAL STANDINGS:

Rank/Player Number/Name/Country/Points:

1 50 Ken Marks/ USA 255
2 27 Darcy/Aus 249
3 13 Devin/USA 242
4 25 Aaron Keynes/Aus 242
5 30 Leigh Geary/Aus 239
6 46 Sonya Tankard/ Gladstone 233
7 15 Ariana Arsenault/USA 230
8 60 Brian Doebler/ USA 226
9 14 Andrew Haywood/USA 224
10 12 Frank Ludiciani/Can 222
11 43 Sharen Hoogmoed/ USA 221
12 21 Mike Holder/USA 220
13 17 Adam White/Aus 220
14 31 Glen Holdaway/Aus 220
15 26 Brenton Hobson/Aus 220
16 44 Jason/ AUS 220
17 45 Scott Templeton/ AUS 220
18 38 Adam Statton/ AUS 220
19 66 Jacob Fox/ USA 220
20 8 Robert Seaman/USA 217
21 29 Kate Eton/Aus 216
22 20 Joshua Lock/Aus 215
23 32 Jim Lewis/Aus 215
24 49 Andrew Bowman/AUS 215
25 37 Karen McFarlane/AUS 213
26 67 Dan/ USA 209
27 16 Vanhos/Aus 207
28 57 Rob Hietbrink/AUS 207
29 34 Heath Taylor/ AUS 205
30 39 Jake/ AUS 205
31 24 Wendy Turner/Aus 204
32 2 Lucas Punkari/CAN 201
33 42 Candace Cocuo/ AUS 201
34 63 Nathan Kahlbaugh/ USA 200
35 40 Brenso/ AUS 194
36 69 Mike Norman/ USA 194
37 33 Chris Temby/Aus 193
38 11 Joshua Bayko/USA 191
39 59 Mike Ernst/ USA 191
40 9 James Barber/ USA 190
41 47 Damon Kingshott/ AUS 188
42 55 Tyler Beichner/USA 187
43 41 Murray Todd/ AUS 185
44 18 Paul/Aus 182
45 62 Dane Hakopa/ AUS 181
46 6 Barry/Can 178
47 65 Dylan Werkman./ USA 178
48 5 Elaine Jarrell/USA 177
49 1 Caitie McFarlane/AUS 176
50 7 Jared Butcosk/USA 175
51 51 Kyle Symons/ USA 174
52 58 Jarret Zendt/ USA 174
53 22 Robert Jordan/Aus 172
54 56 Justin Ainsley/ USA 161
55 36 Daniel Powell/ AUS 159
56 54 Oliver Clothesoff/ USA 156
57 23 Aaron Eberle/ AUS 155
58 53 David Gardham/ CAN 153
59 68 Margie Kahlbaugh/ USA 152
60 19 Daylon of Murica 148
61 61 Patrick/ Murica 148
62 4 Angie/USA 147
63 3 Andrew Loria/USA 143
64 35 Wanda Dietrich/ USA 143
65 64 Morgan Robson/USA 139
66 52 Tony Kalbaugh/ USA 137
67 10 Scott Handlos/ USA 133
68 48 Jeremy Bayshore/ USA 130
69 70 Mike Lysaght/ AUS 125
70 28 Paul Hose/Aus 122

____________________________________________________________________________________
And here's the updated scoring page from our contest.  Our own Tyler Beichner and Kyle Symons ..aka @LiveDirtUpdates ended up in a tie for the lead following qualifying night one, but the Aussies came on strong on night two and currently have two of the top three podium positions!

Remember, the championship night carries a new point scale, so good luck, and have fun!

Here's your current standings!


Rank/Player Number/ Name/Country/Points:

1 27 Darcy/Aus 114
2 49 Andrew Bowman/AUS 105
3 50 Ken Marks/ USA 105
4 13 Devin/USA 102
5 25 Aaron Keynes/Aus 102
6 30 Leigh Geary/Aus 99
7 67 Dan/ USA 99
8 43 Sharen Hoogmoed/ USA 96
9 60 Brian Doebler/ USA 96
10 29 Kate Eton/Aus 96
11 46 Sonya Tankard/ Gladstone 93
12 33 Chris Temby/Aus 93
13 37 Karen McFarlane/AUS 93
14 9 James Barber/ USA 90
15 63 Nathan Kahlbaugh/ USA 90
16 20 Joshua Lock/Aus 90
17 31 Glen Holdaway/Aus 90
18 26 Brenton Hobson/Aus 90
19 32 Jim Lewis/Aus 90
20 21 Mike Holder/USA 90
21 44 Jason/ AUS 90
22 45 Scott Templeton/ AUS 90
23 15 Ariana Arsenault/USA 90
24 34 Heath Taylor/ AUS 90
25 39 Jake/ AUS 90
26 66 Jacob Fox/ USA 90
27 17 Adam White/Aus 90
28 38 Adam Statton/ AUS 90
29 55 Tyler Beichner/USA 87
30 12 Frank Ludiciani/Can 87
31 5 Elaine Jarrell/USA 87
32 18 Paul/Aus 87
33 8 Robert Seaman/USA 87
34 57 Rob Hietbrink/AUS 87
35 16 Vanhos/Aus 87
36 51 Kyle Symons/ USA 84
37 58 Jarret Zendt/ USA 84
38 24 Wendy Turner/Aus 84
39 69 Mike Norman/ USA 84
40 14 Andrew Haywood/USA 84
41 40 Brenso/ AUS 84
42 11 Joshua Bayko/USA 81
43 1 Caitie McFarlane/AUS 81
44 59 Mike Ernst/ USA 81
45 2 Lucas Punkari/CAN 81
46 56 Justin Ainsley/ USA 81
47 62 Dane Hakopa/ AUS 81
48 42 Candace Cocuo/ AUS 81
49 65 Dylan Werkman./ USA 78
50 6 Barry/Can 78
51 47 Damon Kingshott/ AUS 78
52 23 Aaron Eberle/ AUS 75
53 7 Jared Butcosk/USA 75
54 41 Murray Todd/ AUS 75
55 68 Margie Kahlbaugh/ USA 72
56 22 Robert Jordan/Aus 72
57 4 Angie/USA 72
58 64 Morgan Robson/USA 69
59 36 Daniel Powell/ AUS 69
60 54 Oliver Clothesoff/ USA 66
61 35 Wanda Dietrich/ USA 63
62 19 Daylon of Murica 63
63 10 Scott Handlos/ USA 63
64 61 Patrick/ Murica 63
65 3 Andrew Loria/USA 63
66 53 David Gardham/ CAN 63
67 48 Jeremy Bayshore/ USA 60
68 70 Mike Lysaght/ AUS 60
69 52 Tony Kalbaugh/ USA 57
70 28 Paul Hose/Aus 57

2016 Wild West Shootout - Final Weekend Race Recap & Results

Saturday, January 16, 2016
Tucson, Arizona

It was another beautiful day in Tucson, Arizona, when I arrived at the track at 3:00pm local time. The sun had been hiding behind the clouds for most of the day, so it was a little on the chilly side, but also meant that the racing surface was not exposed to direct sunlight for very long periods of time. Hot laps went without a hitch and, much to my surprise, they spent a little more time adding moisture and working the track surface, before heat races! The extra worked helped to ensure the outside line held more moisture throughout the night and also caused it to be the fast line, at least in the heat races and B-mains. Several drivers expressed concern that the track had too much moisture up-top and on the extreme bottom, areas of the track that had not been packed yet and were very muddy/sloppy.

It was cloudy, but a beautiful day overall, on Saturday - Tucson, Arizona

Racing proved to be excellent, as the track as wide enough where fast guys could make moves. Slide jobs were a popular choice, as drivers would barrel-off into turns 1 and 3, letting their momentum carry themselves to the cushion and use the cushion to power-off the turn. For drivers being slid, there was some collaboration required, as they were forced to let-off the throttle mid-way through the turn and experienced drivers used their momentum to dive back under the other driver, on exit, allowing them to execute a slide job of their own, entering the next set of turns. Unfortunately, Late Model heat race 4 proved that trying to slide someone, who doesn't want to be slid, can be a very dangerous proposition.

Don Shaw jumped out to the early lead of Heat race 4, when "Kid Smooth" Billy Moyer Jr had a bit of a sluggish start. Moyer Jr was reeling-in Shaw around the 4th lap, when he pushed-high out of turn 4 and slapped the outside wall, coming to a stop just past the start/finish line. This would end Moyer Jr's night, as his car sustained heavy right front suspension damage, including a damaged drive shaft. 

"Kid Smooth" Billy Moyer Jr had a rough night on Saturday, crashing in the heat race

While positioning myself in the infield, to survey the damage on Moyer Jr's car, along with having a word with him, I noticed "The Georgia Bulldog" Shane Clanton had passed Jason Krohn to take 2nd place and he was moving-in on still race leader, Don Shaw. At the exact moment that Moyer Jr's car pulled directly in front of me, I noticed to my right that Clanton had a huge run on Shaw, entering turn 3. Clanton did what most every other driver would do and he hauled it off into turn 3, just clearing Shaw by inches, then slammed hard into the cushion and utilized the moisture to begin his drive-off the turn. At that moment, Don Shaw had a few options as to how he could react to being slid for the heat race lead. Rather than back-off, or try to turn under Clanton, Shaw decided to run right into the back of him, lifting Clanton's rear tires up off the ground and forcing him above the cushion, into the wall. Clanton's momentum also forced Don Shaw into the wall and the two drivers hit simultaneously at the exit of turn 4. Clanton's front wheels, still turned to the left from trying to execute his slider, dug-into the wet clay above the cushion, causing his car to bite and roll-over about 1 3/4 rotations. Shaw simply slapped the wall and his car came to rest practically underneath Clanton's car. 

Shane Clanton's car came to rest on top of Don Shaw's, after getting upside down in heat race 4

Thankfully, both drivers were okay, but they had a very heated exchange. Both drivers felt like they were done wrong and wanted to ensure the other driver knew how upset they were. Mind you, both drivers are large men, so it took several members of security and the safety crew, to keep the altercation from becoming physical. Saw was able to drive his car away, but was encouraged to load-up and head home, as track officials did not appreciate his aggressive behavior towards Clanton, after the crash occurred. Clanton also loaded-up and headed home, due to the large amount of damage sustained to his car. What went from a fierce battle for the lead in heat race 4, ended with both drivers done for the rest of the weekend. Jason Krohn went-on to win the wild heat race, after a brief red flag was displayed, to allow for clean-up.

After tempers calmed, track officials were able to get Clanton's car on its wheels

What was left of Shane Clanton's car, after getting upside down in heat race 4 on Saturday

58 Late Models showed-up to race on Saturday night, with Chris Simpson, "The Sandman" Rodney Sanders, RC Whitwell, "Superman" Jonathan Davenport and Ricky Thornton Jr joining Krohn as heat race winners. 38 Modifieds also competed on Saturday, with Brad Dierks, "The Reaper" Ryan Gustin, Chad Olsen and Kyle Beard winning heat races. While the heat races provided a lot of action, there was also plenty of action in the main events as well. Listed below are my race recaps from Saturday night, including full results:

Late Models

"The Sandman" Rodney Sanders and Jason Krohn shared the front row for the Late Model main event, with Krohn firing-off from the outside row, to take the early lead. Unfortunately for Krohn, his lead was short-lived, as 3rd place starter "The Bluegrass Bandit" Darrell Lanigan charged to the front, utilizing the bottom of the race track. The race saw the first 23 laps go green, as Lanigan was deep into lapped traffic. "The Reaper" Ryan Gustin did a masterful job of running what was left of the cushion, utilizing the high line to keep his momentum up. Right around the 20-lap mark, Gustin had closed-in to just a few car lengths behind Lanigan and seemed poised to give "The Bluegrass Bandit" a run for the lead. However, on lap 23, the race took an unexpected turn. Then 3rd place-runner, Jason Krohn, made contact with Austin Siebert, as he was attempting to lap him. This caused Siebert to spin driver-side to the wall in turn 3, bringing out the race's first and only caution. However, at the exact same time as the caution, Gustin began experiencing mechanical problems, from 2nd place and he pulled into the infield, ending his night. Krohn survived the contact with Siebert, sustaining only minor cosmetic damage to his driver-side door and inheriting 2nd place, when Gustin had trouble. Ronny Lee Hollingsworth inherited 3rd, with Chris Simpson in 4th, Jason Papich 5th, Rodney Sanders 6th and "Superman" Jonathan Davenport had charged from his 14th place starting position, to run 7th at lap 23. The ensuing restart saw Lanigan fire-off to an early lead and he would not be challenged for the remainder of the race, cruising to his first victory of 2016 and winning $5,000! The race for 2nd was wild though, as Krohn, Hollingsworth and Simpson went 3-wide on multiple occasions, all while Davenport continued his march to the front. Hollingsworth prevailed to finish 2nd, while Davenport just ran out of laps and settled for 3rd. Simpson and Krohn rounded out the top-5. 

"The Bluegrass Bandit" Darrell Lanigan won the $5,000 feature on Saturday night!

"Right Foot Ronny" Lee Hollingsworth had an impressive run to finish 2nd on Saturday

"Superman" Jonathan Davenport charged from 14th, but settled for 3rd on Saturday

It was an excellent night of racing, as the track was wide enough to allow passing, but neither line had a large advantage over the other. The guys who were making passes and moving through the field, truly had better handling cars. Davenport impressed, charging from 14th to finish 3rd. Ronny Lee Hollingsworth had his annual solid-run in Arizona, bringing it home in 2nd. Krohn also had a solid run, leading laps early, but ultimately settled to finish 5th. Chris Simpson charged from 10th to finish 4th, "The Kentucky Colonel" Steve Francis from 18th to finish 11th and Donny Schatz charged from 24th to finish 14th! Listed below are the full results from Saturday, including the driver's starting position in parenthesis:

Late Model Results

1. Darrell Lanigan (3), 2. Ronny Lee Hollingsworth (5), 3. Jonathan Davenport (14), 4. Chris Simpson (10), 5. Jason Krohn (2), 6. Jason Papich (9), 7. RC Whitwell (8), 8. Chase Junghans (11), 9. Rodney Sanders (1), 10. Don O'Neal (13), 11. Steve Francis (18), 12. Ricky Thornton Jr (15), 13. Billy Moyer Sr (12), 14. Donny Schatz (24), 15. Tyler Erb (6), 16. Dustin Strand (7), 17. Garrett Alberson (21), 18. Terry Phillips (19), 19. Kyle Beard (16), 20. Hunter Rasdon (23), 21. Jason Rauen (17), 22. Ryan Gustin (4), 23. Austin Siebert (20), 24. Pat Doar (22)

Modifieds

One of the best Dirt Modified drivers of all-time, "The Sandman" Rodney Sanders started on the pole of the 25-lap main event. After firing-off to an early lead and stretching it to nearly a straightaway, it was easy to think that he would run away and win the race. Unfortunately, for Sanders, that was not the case. "The Reaper" Ryan Gustin was running his usual high-line and making great time, reeling-in race leader Sanders. A caution on lap 11 reset the race, allowing Gustin to close-in and start right behind Sanders. The race was a bit sluggish, as several cautions flew and did not allow for drivers to get into much of a rhythm. The man on the move was "Toddzilla" Todd Shute, as he charged into the top-5, just past the 20-lap mark of the feature. A series of late race cautions and restarts continued to reset Sanders lead, though he continued to hold-off all challengers. Gustin had his usual run-ins with the wall, thoroughly destroying the right rear of his Modified for the second night in-a-row. Shute successfully worked his way up to 2nd place and set his sights on Sanders, who had lead the entire race. On the last lap, Shute successfully completed the pass and motored ahead of Sanders to win the $1,000 feature! 

"Toddzilla" Todd Shute completed a last-lap pass to win on Saturday!

"The Sandman" Rodney Sanders led 24 of 25 laps, but settled for 2nd place

"The Reaper" Ryan Gustin & Philip Houston finished 3rd & 4th on Saturday

What a heartbreaker for Sanders! After leading 24 of 25 laps, Shute worked magic to complete the last-lap pass for the win! Gustin's car showed the usual signs of his bouts with the wall, as his right rear quarter panel and spoiler were in pieces, by races' end. Philip Houston had a strong, clean run, finishing 4th on the night. Several B-main transfers impressed tonight, as Stormy Scott charged from 24th to finish 6th, Darron Fuqua from 19th to 9th, Matt Leer from 17th to 10th, Matt Gilbertson from 21st to 11th and "The Jet" Blake Jegtvig charged from 20th to finish 12th. Listed below are the full race results, including driver's starting positions in parenthesis:

Modified Results

1. Todd Shute (4), 2. Rodney Sanders (1), 3. Ryan Gustin (6), 4. Philip Houston (5), 5. Ryan Mikkelson (8), 6. Stormy Scott (24), 7. Jacob Gallardo (7), 8. Chad Olsen (2), 9. Darron Fuqua (19), 10. Matt Leer (17), 11. Matt Gilbertson (21), 12. Blake Jegtvig (20), 13. Kyle Beard (3), 14. Scott Bintz (12), 15. Alex Stanford (16), 16. Kent Arment (11), 17. Justin Rexwrinkle (15), 18. Christy Georges-Barnett (14), 19. Royal Jones (13), 20. Joe Duvall (18), 21. Shawn Fletcher (23), 22. Brad Dierks (9), 23. Travis Peery (10), 24. Fito Gallardo (22)

Sunday, January 17, 2016

Tucson, Arizona

Mother Nature has a sick sense of humor, at times. A week removed from receiving a month's worth of rain, in a week's time in Tucson, Arizona, we had the best weather of the entire Wild West Shootout on Sunday. It was bright and sunny, 70 degrees and not a cloud in the sky! I joked with some of the drivers and crews that at least we're "sending them off" with good weather! Those who have raced in Tucson before, know this is how our weather usually is, even during the "winter months", so the weather we experienced last week was mostly an anomaly. I arrived around 2:30pm local time and discovered a lot of moisture had been applied to the track, eliminating any concern that the track may become dry, due to being exposed to many hours of direct sunlight.

We had the best weather on Sunday - 70 degrees and sunny - Tucson, Arizona

Overall, the track conditions were very similar each night of the Wild West Shootout, save for a bumpy surface on the first weekend. Track officials did an excellent job, as no lane had a distinct advantage over another, during any night of competition. Track conditions lent itself for a lot of side-by-side racing and allowed for a decent amount of passing. Ultimately, a driver's success was mainly determined by how fast their car was, or how well it handled, combined with their starting position. Being that "passing points" were utilized throughout the entire event, drivers were awarded for making big moves and advancing several positions, during heat races. Most drivers that started up-front in the main event were able to hold-on for a decent finishing position. Some drivers were able to make big moves in the main event, advancing several positions, but we did not see a driver start outside of the top-10, charge to the front and get a win. While the track conditions were not perfect, throughout the 6 race mini-series, the conditions were good and created the opportunity for close, competitive racing! 

53 Late Models stayed to do battle on the final night with Ricky Thornton Jr, "Kid Smooth" Billy Moyer Jr, "The Kentucky Colonel" Steve Francis, Justin Duty, "The Sandman" Rodney Sanders and Terry Phillips all enjoying heat race wins. Only 31 Modifieds stayed for the last race on Sunday, with Travis Peery, "Todzilla" Todd Shute and Stormy Scott winning heat races. The track was just like it had been all weekend, starting to get dry in the middle/bottom, while the top held a little moisture. However, as the night progressed, the cushion became smaller and smaller, making it treacherous to run the high-side. Listed below are my race recap stories, including results:

Late Models

Late Models did a 4-wide salute on Sunday! 50 laps for $11,000 to win

"The Bluegrass Bandit" Darrell Lanigan enjoyed his pole starting position and fired-off to take the early lead. Lanigan built his lead to nearly a straightaway in the first handful of laps. Being only 5 laps into the 50-lap feature, I couldn't help but wonder how the story would go, if Lanigan went-on to lead all 50 laps, to win $11,000. However, my thoughts were quickly dashed, as his right front tire made contact with Jimmy Mars' left rear tire, as he was attempting to lap him, causing Lanigan to spin to the inside of the front stretch on lap 8, bringing out the races first caution.

Darrell Lanigan spun from the lead on lap 8, causing the race's first caution

This allowed fellow front-row starter, Jason Papich, to take-over the lead. 7th place starter, "Superman" Jonathan Davenport had already worked himself into the top-5 and seemed to have the best car. On the ensuing restart, Papich jumped-out to an early lead, as Davenport charged to 2nd place by lap 15. At that moment, I thought what a big win it would be, if Papich could lead the rest of the way and win $11,000. However, with "Superman" in the house, even his straightaway lead wasn't safe. Davenport was clearly running-down Papich, when the race had it's 2nd caution of the night on lap 20, as Ricky Weiss and Brandon Sheppard both slowed in Turns 1 and 2. Papich was still leading Davenport, with Terry Phillips in 3rd, but his lead was to be short-lived. Davenport completed the pass on Papich, with what appeared to be relative ease, on lap 26 and begun driving away from the field! Garrett Alberson slowed on the exit of turn 4, to bring out the 3rd and final caution of the night, on lap 32. Ricky Thornton Jr and "The Reaper" Ryan Gustin were able to sneak-by Papich for 2nd place, before the caution, putting them in 2nd and 3rd, before the race's final restart. However, much like most of the Wild West Shootout, no one had anything for "Superman" Jonathan Davenport on Sunday night. Davenport fired-off from the late race restart, stretching his lead to nearly a full straightaway by the time he crossed the line on lap 50, pocketing the $11,000 payday! Arizona Modified ace, Ricky Thornton Jr held-on to finish 2nd, with Gustin, Papich and "The Kentucy Colonel" Steve Francis, rounding-out the top-5. 

"Superman" Jonathan Davenport charged from 7th to win on Sunday, collecting $11,000!

Arizona Modified racer, Ricky Thornton Jr, enjoyed a solid 2nd place effort on Sunday

"The Reaper" Ryan Gustin & Jason Papich both had solid runs in the 50-lap finale, finishing 3rd & 4th

I think the most surprising thing about the 2016 Wild West Shootout, was the lack of surprises. "Superman" Jonathan Davenport did what everyone thought he would: He came down in his Kevin Rumley-prepared Longhorn Chassis and dominated! Not only winning the 50-lap finale on Sunday, he also won 2 features earlier in the week, along with finishing 2nd, 3rd and 4th place in the three nights that he didn't win. Davenport flexed his muscle every night, usually charging from his starting position and almost making passes look easy. It's safe to say there was no one else worthy of winning the 2016 Wild West Shootout, as Davenport's domination easily netted him the $2,000 Late Model point bonus as well! 

Davenport & Team celebrate with their many trophies, winning over $25,000 total, while in Arizona!

Not to the surprise of many, Clint Bowyer Racing was also very strong. They accounted for winning 3 of the 6 nights that Davenport didn't win, as "The Real Deal" Don O'Neal won 2 and "The Bluegrass Bandit" Darrell Lanigan won 1. Both will likely be disappointed with their efforts in the 50-lap finale on Sunday, but I think they proved Arizona was a successful trip for them! Ricky Thornton Jr was among the surprises in this year's Wild West Shootout, after finishing 2nd in the final race on Sunday. "Right Foot Ronny" Lee Hollingsworth also enjoyed a 2nd place effort on one of the nights, proving that he usually has at least 1 solid run, when he makes the trip down to Arizona. "The Kentucky Colonel" Steve Francis wasn't able to win in Arizona, but proved that him and his team will be a force to be reckoned with in 2016, posting several strong top-5 finishes throughout the 6 race mini-series! Listed below are the rest of the Late Model results, including the driver's starting positions in parenthesis. Also listed below are the final Late Model point standings:

Late Model Results

1. Jonathan Davenport (7), 2. Ricky Thornton Jr (6), 3. Ryan Gustin (18), 4. Jason Papich (2), 5. Steve Francis (8), 6. Chris Simpson (5), 7. Kyle Beard (23), 8. Terry Phillips (4), 9. Austin Siebert (16), 10. Billy Moyer Jr (3), 11. Morgan Bagley (19), 12. Robert Odegard (13), 13. Jake O'Neil (21), 14. Justin Duty (9), 15. RC Whitwell (20), 16. Garrett Alberson (12), 17. Chase Junghans (15), 18. Don O'Neal (17), 19. Billy Moyer Sr (14), 20. Rodney Sanders (10), 21. Ricky Weiss (11), 22. Brandon Sheppard (24), 23. Darrell Lanigan (1), 24. Jimmy Mars (22)

Final Late Model Point Standings

1. Jonathan Davenport - 390, 2. Darrell Lanigan - 292, 3. Don O'Neal - 287, 4. Steve Francis - 271, 5. Jason Papich - 261, 6. Chris Simpson - 252, 7. Shane Clanton - 210, 8. Garrett Alberson - 202, 9. Billy Moyer Sr - 197, 10. Rodney Sanders - 194, 11. Brandon Sheppard - 181, 12. Jason Krohn - 179, 13. AJ Diemel - 174, 14. Ryan Gustin - 169, 15. Billy Moyer Jr - 161, 16. Kyle Beard - 158, 17. Morgan Bagley - 157, 18. Ricky Thornton Jr - 151, 19. Jimmy Mars - 150, 20. Terry Phillips - 148

Also, here's a breakdown of each Late Model driver, including how many main events they made, their best feature finish and total winnings, during the 6 race mini-series:

Modifieds

The Modifieds had a wild final feature on Sunday night, as there were multiple red flags and cautions. Travis Peery started on the pole position, but it was outside pole sitter, Joe Duvall who shot-out to the early lead. Unfortunately, the race lasted only 9 laps, before the first red flag was shown, as a light pole went-out in Turn 1, making it difficult for drivers to see. After about 15 minutes was spent to repair the light, the field went back green, with Duvall still out front, Stormy Scott in 2nd and Jacob Gallardo in 3rd. Scott and Gallardo would enjoy a fierce battle, as both were able to pass Duvall on the ensuing restart, with Gallardo getting by both of them. Unfortunately, it was only 2 laps later that Ryan Mikkelson went for a wild ride in Turn 1, bringing out the 2nd red flag of the night. Thankfully, Mikkelson was okay and it sealed Gallardo's lead. A few caution flags slowed the race, throughout the remaining 14 laps, but no one was able to get by Gallardo. Stormy Scott gave it everything he had, but came-up just short and had to settle for 2nd place. Jacob Gallardo claimed the $2,000 Modified finale on Sunday, while "Todzilla" Todd Shute enjoyed a solid 3rd place finish, clinching the $1,000 Modified point bonus! 

Jacob Gallardo held-on to win the $2,000 finale on Sunday night!

Stormy Scott gave it everything he had, but settled for 2nd place on Sunday

"Toddzilla" Todd Shute had a solid 3rd place run on Sunday & clinched the Modified point bonus

The Modifieds were much less predictable during the 2016 Wild West Shootout. Initially, it appeared to be all Cade Dillard, until he crashed hard on Wednesday night, ending his week early. "The Reaper" Ryan Gustin also showed flashes of brilliance, winning 2 nights in-a-row, but had difficulty maintaining consistency throughout the week. By far the most consistent, was Iowa racer Todd Shute, as he enjoyed solid finishes nearly every night, along with winning the feature on Saturday night. He was most deserving of the $1,000 Modified points bonus! Listed below are the full Modified results from Sunday night, including the driver's starting positions in parenthesis. Also listed below is the final Modified point standings:

Modified Results

1. Jacob Gallardo (3), 2. Stormy Scott (7), 3. Todd Shute (6), 4. Darron Fuqua (8), 5. Blake Jegtvig (21), 6. Matt Gilbertson (11), 7. Joe Duvall (2), 8. Philip Houston (12), 9. Matt Leer (4), 10. Shawn Fletcher (16), 11. Alex Stanford (15), 12. Chad Olsen (10), 13. Christy Georges-Barnett (17), 14. Scott Bintz (24), 15. Jeff Hartley (22), 16. Travis Peery (1), 17. Daniel Anders (23), 18. Brad Dierks (13), 19. Greg Jelvik (20), 20. Greg Chesley (19), 21. Fito Gallardo (18), 22. Rodney Sanders (5), 23. Ryan Mikkelson (14), 24. Justin Rexwrinkle (9)

Final Modified Point Standings

1. Todd Shute - 309, 2. Philip Houston - 275, 3. Darron Fuqua - 272, 4. Matt Leer - 264, 5. Matt Gilbertson - 256, 6. Stormy Scott - 237, 7. Ryan Gustin - 216, 8. Brad Dierks - 198, 9. Shawn Fletcher - 187, 10. Blake Jegtvig - 185, 11. Cade Dillard - 178, 12. Rodney Sanders - 177, 13. Ryan Mikkelson - 176, 14. Chad Olsen - 173, 15. Danny Bayor - 148

Decker Turns the Page for 2016

CONWAY, SC – January 19^th, 2016 – In what has shaped up to be a silly season to remember for years to come, the latest news is with Billy Decker yet again. Mike Payne Racing released a statement earlier today stating that they will be teaming up with the Franklin Flyer for the 2016 Super DIRTcar Series campaign, as well as other special events. In a phone interview, Decker said “the announcement came earlier than expected”, as it was slated to be revealed at this weekend’s AARN Motorsports Expo in Philadelphia. It comes as a surprise that the Bicknell will be set up on Integra Shocks now, as recently MPR has used Fox Shocks. Also new for MPR is the car number, as Decker will retain his usual number 91. Decker reiterated the fact that he is still exploring weekend options, and nothing is set in stone. This news for the series comes as a breath of fresh air for Decker fans, as the past few rumor filled months of waiting have been grueling. He told me that there were thoughts of retirement, but the new deal came together, and there is a great amount of excitement for 2016. 

Bittersweet Donuts; What We Might Miss Most About Abreu

Lost in all the delirium that took place on Saturday night in Tulsa, after one Rico Abreu had put the finishing touches on putting a 300 plus field of amazing drivers in their midgets to bed, was an inevitable truth.  The fact that we're going to be seeing less and less of him gracing the clay. It started setting in on or about his 10th victory donut, and it hasn't been any easier to deal with.

It's not that he doesn't want to be duking it out on bullrings from coast to coast. It's simply that there's a better opportunity awaiting him. And he earned that to say the least. And it should be a happy time to be an Abreu fan. Nevertheless, the donuts and subsequent jump into the arms of an awaiting Bryan Clauson, were bittersweet. They served as a reminder that the party will be going to the asphalt quicker than many of us were ready for.

"Here for a good time, not for a long time." is an expression commonly used in today's world, and it appropriately applies to Abreu on his rise to the next level.  And there's several reasons why he'll be missed very badly.  His story is unique. He was a natural talent that wasn't realized until later on in his life. His personality has a specific charm, and it's not got to do with his height. If Abreu were six feet tall, he'd be much the same person. The guy who doesn't mind stopping by elementary schools to talk to children about bullying. The individual who risks life and limb to rescue drivers in distress if the worst should happen in front of him.  He's the proverbial racers racer.

chilibowl.com

But more than that, and perhaps the biggest reason we'll miss seeing him at the dirt track in the coming years, is that he drives with such passion, and puts the car in places where few would dare, and does so cleanly. He's a one man show some nights. It's evident at the chili bowl for sure, but also on a regular USAC or WoO night too. It matters not what the purse is, Abreu takes chances and let's it all hang out with reckless abandon that is never over the edge, but right on it. He's quite possibly the most entertaining driver in terms of "wow" factor many of have seen in recent memory. And his style takes us back to the days when more drivers seemed to be more gutsy, more risk taking, and were cut from legendary stuff.

And he unites fans of divisions as perhaps no driver has done recently. Look no further than the World Finals, where a good many modified, late model, and sprint fans among the 12,000 strong start the Rico..Rico..Rico chant. It may be an impossible thing to find a diehard Abreu detractor among dirt fans.

Nascar.com

He'll be driving NASCAR trucks full time in 2016, and although he may get the chance to run some dirt events here and there, the path for Abreu looks like a clear shot to the top series, sooner rather than later.  It would be selfish for us as dirt fans to want to keep him in front of our eyes only too. To quote the Shawshank Redemption,

“Some birds are not meant to be caged. Their feathers are too bright, their songs too sweet and wild. So you let them go, or when you open the cage to feed them they somehow fly out past you. And the part of you that knows it was wrong to imprison them in the first place rejoices, but still, the place where you live is that much more drab and empty for their departure.”  

So it will be with us and Abreu. And we wish him well, and perhaps, it may give some of us a reason to tune into NASCAR again. But there'll be a hole where he used to be. It'll be filled with another talented driver to a certain degree. But the character, personality, and style....Rico will be forever the owner of.