Tom Dusen Celebrates 52nd Birthday with Win

Muskegon Driver #10 Tom Dusen used his son's motor from his late model after hurting his last weekend and charged to one of the closest victories ever recorded at Crystal Motor Speedway. Dusen reeled in leader #23 Ryan Vanderveen with two laps to go as Vanderveen was slowed by lapped traffic. Vanderveen was left guessing which way to go to get around a lapped car while Dusen's only option was to go opposite of the leader. Entering the last two turns Vanderveen shoved his nose inside of a lapped car only to see the him stay on the gas in the high groove bringing Dusen with him. Dusen stayed right on his bumper and won by inches.

What a way to celebrate a Birthday!

Thunderbird Raceway Winners Circle: May 22nd

Bombers: #15 Brian "Dozer" Crane
Modifieds: #27 John McCaul
Late Models: #87 Rich Neiser
Factory Stock:#73 Robby Sternberg
Street Stock #41 Mike Wilburn
Warriors: #13 Dan Riersma

Watch Thunderbird Raceway & Crystal Motor Speedway Live

Click on the Link Below to take you there.


Crystal Motor Speedway


Thunderbird Raceway

Races on The Web

Mid-Michigan Raceway Park Cancels

Due to the rain that we have recieved and the forecast for more this evening we have canceled the races for tonight 5-21-10.

Thank you,
Mike Myers
MMRP

Winston Speedway Cancels: May 21st

Continuing rain with the forecast of more this evening has resulted in the cancellation of today's race program at Winston Speedway,

West Michigan Racing Point Standings: May 20th

Latest points standings: West Michigan tracks
By The Grand Rapids Press

BERLIN RACEWAY
Late Models
1. Terry VanHaitsma -- 239
2. Chris Anthony -- 204
3. Ross Meeuwsen -- 191
3. Tim DeVos -- 191
5. Nick Shotko -- 182
6. Lee Van Dyk -- 178
7. Scott Thomas -- 175
8. Josh Slade -- 168
9. Caleb Bisacky -- 165
9. Barry Hartwell -- 165

Super Stocks
1. Andrew Nylaan -- 240
2. Dave Lake -- 231
3. Warren Speet -- 223
4. Justin Regnerus -- 240
5. Justin Ryan -- 196
6. Gabe Ensing -- 186
7. Denny Anderson -- 184
8. Travis Nylaan -- 183
9. Brian Wiersma -- 174
10. Nick Bonstell -- 171
10. Ray VanAllsburg -- 171

Pro Stocks
1. Weston Jewett -- 246
2. Brian Tillema -- 220
3. Ryan Gruppen -- 199
4. Ken Smith -- 195
5. Brandon Hermiller -- 194
6. Marc Coleman -- 189
7. Mitch Meppelink -- 187
8. Dave Cutler -- 179
9. Scott Root -- 169
10. Dave D’Avignon -- 165

4-Cylinders A
1. Jason Scheid -- 220
2. Kyle Hamm -- 216
3. Ryan Hamm -- 199
4. Jason DeVos -- 182
5. Don McNabb -- 181
6. Brad Hastings -- 172
7. Gerry Shepard -- 171
8. Rob Shoemaker -- 169
8. Ron Myers -- 169
10. Cole Roelofs -- 159

4-Cylinders B
1. Paul Ritchie -- 201
2. Jim Rhodes -- 195
3. Jackson Walker -- 193
4. Dan Dells -- 180
5. Daryl Davis -- 179
6. Clayton Brown -- 179
7. Nicole Randolph -- 166
8. John Norder -- 164
9. Charlie DeJong -- 163
10. Tyler Nawrocki -- 155

CRYSTAL MOTOR SPEEDWAY
Late Models
1. Matt Pickard -- 144
2. Mark Andersen -- 141
3. Keith Gentz -- 137
4. Kyle Borgman -- 134
5. Brock Cogswell -- 133
6. Jay Van Dyke -- 128
7. Dean Huizinga -- 125
8. Justin McNeill -- 117
9. Tim Cogswell -- 115
10. Tom Dusen -- 106

Modifieds
1. Josh Borton -- 143
2. Chad Wernette -- 141
3. A.J. Ward -- 130
4. Rusty Zeigler -- 125
5. Roger Flinn III -- 124
6. Brennan Bowen -- 123
7. Brad Roberts -- 117
8. Luke Olger -- 115
9. J.R. Schmid -- 111
10. Neil Siefker -- 109

Pro Stocks
1. Chaney Newland -- 154
2. Ryan Kent -- 149
3. Mike Husted -- 143
4. Vern Buskirk -- 137
5. Barry Rinard -- 136
6. Jacob Headley -- 129
6. Derek Schestag -- 129
8. Larry Kosloski -- 127
9. Doug McKeown Sr. -- 122
10. Todd Bush -- 119

Pro Trucks
1. Scott Nieman -- 152
2. Carl Thayer -- 150
3. Aaron Raby -- 148
4. Tim Wood -- 143
5. Ashlee Scott -- 141
6. Tim Sooy -- 133
7. Gary Dancer -- 132
8. Dave Peters -- 128
9. Gaven Parks -- 126
10. David Verhaar -- 114
10. Andrew Fidler 114

Street Stocks
1. Al Kiester -- 110
2. Mike Vandermark Jr. -- 108
3. James Protozoa -- 106
4. Anthony Carlton -- 105
5. Shane Spencer -- 104
6. Tim Buskirk -- 98
6. Jasen Wiley -- 98
8. Jeff Fisher -- 94
8. Zach Hoyt -- 94
10. Brooke Ann Brasington -- 87

Flinn Stocks
1. Cory Burch -- 157
2. Chance Allen -- 150
3 Richard Melton -- 141
4. Neil Zeigler -- 138
5. Zach Rummer -- 136
6. Lee Zahm -- 119
7. Austin Bean -- 98
8. Ryan Brady -- 97
9. Chris DeCamp -- 91
10. Terri Hale -- 90

I-96 SPEEDWAY
Late Models
1. Brandon Thirlby -- 115
2. Roger Wing -- 112
3. Eric Spangler -- 110
4. Zack Olger -- 104
5. Rich Neisser -- 86
6. Trever Sloan -- 83
7. Bry Sloan -- 79
8. Bill Bray -- 75
8. Jeep Van wormer -- 75
10. Scott Ehlert -- 70
10. Dusty Moore -- 70

Modifieds
1. Mark Anderson -- 145
2. Travis Stemler --135
3. Jared Guinn -- 125
4. Tim Stemler 99
5. Zack Olger -- 90
6. Todd Feutz -- 89
7. Rich Robinson Jr. -- 82
8. Shannon Fisk -- 81
9. Tim Dalman -- 77
9. C J Rector -- 77

Street Stocks
1. Aaron Wolf -- 145
2. Richard Hyvarinen -- 130
3. Gary Vandermark -- 119
4. Hillary Smith -- 105
5. Ron Harper -- 102
6. Joel Hummel -- 98
7. Steve Piercefield -- 88
8. Mike Vandermark -- 70
9. Cody Denny -- 60
10. Larry Zander -- 55

Road Beaters
1. Dan Reimersma -- 150
2. Scott Rumsey -- 135
3. Richard Peck -- 110
3. Jason Feutz -- 110
5. Calvin Stemler -- 88
6. Tyler Quillan -- 78
7. Greg Pinard -- 76
8. Terry Henderson -- 71
9. Kyle Shattuck -- 70
10. Paul Namey -- 65

THUNDERBIRD RACEWAY
Late Models
1. Kevin Nelson Jr. -- 258
2. Alan Vochaska -- 239
3. Shawn Reed -- 222
4. Phil Ausra -- 144
5. Kevin Nelson Sr. -- 121
6. Rob Taylor -- 120
7. Lowell Webstra -- 118
8. Tim Stott -- 114
9. Mark Wagner -- 104
10. Dave Hartman -- 101

UMP Modifieds
1. Andy Sprague -- 275
2. Jeremy Holman -- 191
3. Jacob Poel -- 155
4. Randy Whitten -- 151
5. Steve McClees -- 150
6. John McCaul -- 145
7. Walt Wisniewski -- 137
8. Jason Ferguson -- 107
9. Derek Passenier -- 101
10. Jeff Erickson -- 100

UMP Street Stocks
1. Mike Lynn -- 265
2. Mark Ransom -- 204
3. Josh Frye -- 201
4. Jim Beltz -- 187
5. John Lock -- 184
6. Dean Barnhard -- 162
7. Derek Poland -- 153
8. Mike Epplett -- 140
9. Dan Wildfong -- 105
10. Chad Enrick -- 90

Bombers
1. David Grega -- 275
2. Jeremy Lange -- 171
3. Bill May -- 165
4. James Lange -- 145
5. Barry Mendendorp -- 143
6. Jarid Bisson -- 134
7. Justin Schuler -- 133
8. Mark Farber -- 123
9. Bruce Norwick Sr. -- 120
10. Bruce Norwick Jr. -- 115

Warriors
1. Nick Curtis -- 260
2. Ed Higgons -- 207
3. Harley Farkle -- 205
4. Jim Perry -- 183
5. Bobby Metz -- 182
6. Ryan Hamm -- 180
7. Keith Higgons -- 154
8. Justin Wood -- 131
9. Rich Lieb -- 120
10. Gary Lockard -- 110

UMP 4-Cylinders
1. Mark Farber -- 265
2. Don Keech -- 233
3. Harley Farkle -- 208
4. Dean Barnhard -- 170
5. Cody Moorman -- 138
6. Mark Drum -- 108
7. Adam Spencer -- 78
8. Don Ward -- 61
9. John Foss -- 60
10. Curtis Rice -- 54

WINSTON SPEEDWAY
Late Models
1. Matt Pickard -- 140
2. Kevin Nelson Jr. -- 135
3. Rich Neiser -- 119
4. Tom Sprague Jr. -- 108
5. Alan Vochaska -- 102
6. Mike Nichols -- 98
7. Kevin Juusola -- 89
8. Dave Hartman -- 88
9. Sammy Epline -- 87
10. Eric Spangler -- 79

Modifieds
1. Troy Marciniak -- 170
2. Greg Smith -- 162
3. Andy Sprague -- 146
4. Todd Feutz -- 143
5. Eddie Reyes -- 123
6. Jeff Erickson -- 122
7. Randy Whitten -- 121
8. John McCaul -- 114
9. Jared Guinn -- 95
10. Larry Passenier -- 94
10. Nate Bostrom -- 94

Street Stocks
1. Mike Lynn -- 168
2. Rob Sternberg -- 165
3. Chad Weinrick -- 154
4. Tony Weinrick -- 144
5. Josh Frye -- 142
6. Derek Poland -- 140
7. Matt Sprague -- 131
8. Rick Huisken -- 103
9. Mitch Smith -- 98
10. Justin Gilland -- 84

Bombers
1. Spike Grega -- 211
2. Robby Sternberg -- 196
3. Joe Carmean -- 194
4. Dennis Bringedahl -- 166
5. Duane Townsend -- 135
6. Dave Norwick -- 134
7. Jeremy Lange -- 125
8. Barry Mendendorp -- 120
9. Dan Deyman -- 118
10. Richard Copas -- 116

4-Cylinders
1. Brandon Tramper -- 176
2. Mark Farber -- 170
3. Mark Drum -- 140
4. Harley Farkle -- 136
4. Carl McCann -- 136
6. Rick Ward -- 135
7. Cody Moorman -- 119
8. Jerry Meyering -- 106
9. Paul Rice -- 95
10. Christen Convey -- 64

Warriors
1. Nick Curtis -- 163
2. Harley Farkle -- 160
3. Gary Lockerd -- 130
4. Brian Carson -- 124
5. Mike Anderson -- 122
6. Dave Avink -- 116
6. Randy Whitten -- 116
8. Todd Sprague -- 105
9. Justin Wood -- 95
10. Brian Mills -- 90

West Michigan Racing Weekend Preview

FEATURED TRACKS

I-96 SPEEDWAY
The World of Outlaws will be making its first and only Michigan appearance of the 2010 season Saturday when the popular traveling open-wheel circuit takes on the I-96 Speedway half-mile in Lake Odessa. Action starts at 7 p.m.

•Location: 3823 W. Portland Road, Lake Odessa
•Track: Three-eighth-mile and half-mile dirt ovals
•Contact: 616-642-0555, i96speedway.com

BERLIN RACEWAY
The Auto Value Super Sprints Series is coming to the Marne half-mile to open its 2010 season Saturday at 7 p.m. It is the first of two visits by the Super Sprints, which will return to Berlin Sept. 4. The USA Modifieds, plus the track’s Pro Stocks and 4 Cylinder divisions, will join the Super Sprints for a 4-in-one program.

•Location: 2060 Berlin Fair Drive, Marne
•Track: Half-mile asphalt oval
•Contact: 616-677-5000, berlinraceway.com
ACROSS WEST MICHIGAN

CRYSTAL MOTOR SPEEDWAY
•Location: 8315 Sidney Road, Crystal
•Track: Three-eighth-mile dirt oval
•Saturday: The Janet Zeigler Memorial will offer Late Models, IMCA Modifieds, Pro Stocks, Pro Trucks, Flinn Stocks and Street Stocks at 7:30 p.m.
•Contact: 989-235-5200, crystalmotorspeedway.com

THUNDERBIRD RACEWAY
•Location: 350 W. Riley Thompson Road, Muskegon
•Track: Three-eighth-mile dirt mile oval
•Saturday: UMP Late Models, UMP Modifieds, UMP Street Stocks, UMP Bombers, Thunder Stocks, UMP 4-Cylinders and UMP Warriors at 7 p.m.
•Contact: 231-766-3300, thunderbirdraceway.net

WINSTON MOTOR SPEEDWAY
•Location: 7834 S. 72nd Ave., Montague
•Track: Three-eighth-mile dirt oval
•Friday: UMP Late Models, UMP Modifieds, UMP Bombers, Street Stocks, 4-Cylinders, UMP Warriors and Winston Stocks at 7:30 p.m.
•Contact: 231-893-3023, winstonspeedway.net

MID-MICHIGAN RACEWAY PARK
•Location: 7573 Hayes Road, Fenwick
•Track: Third-mile dirt oval
•Friday: Late Models, Modifieds, Pro Stocks, Pro Trucks, Street Stocks and Mini Stock 4-Cylinders at 8 p.m.
•Contact: (989) 637-4353, mmracewaypark.tripod.com

ORLEANS RACEWAY
•Location: 7940 Canfield Road, Belding
•Track: Three-eighth-mile clay oval
•Friday: Open Modifieds, Pro Stocks, Hobby Stocks, Street Stocks, Mini Stocks and Factory Stocks at 8 p.m.
•Contact: 616-794-2810, orleansraceway.us

Racing Fan Dilemma

Racing fans' dilemma: World of Outlaws at I-96 Speedway or Sprint Cup All-Star on TV?
By Steve Kaminski
The Grand Rapids Press

Don't tell me that a fifth consecutive championship is a given just because he has dominated the past four years.

Check out the points standings, and you will find him fourth overall heading into this weekend's action, 130 points out of first. He's hardly on the ropes, but he is Floyd Mayweather in the second round versus Shane Mosley.

I'm telling you right now, though, don't ever count out Donny Schatz, because he is a great driver with a great team behind him.

Gotcha, didn't I? You thought I was talking about Jimmie Johnson, right?

It's funny how closely the World of Outlaws and NASCAR Sprint Cup seasons parallel each other as the weeks unfold this spring. Johnson, who is Cup's four-time defending champion, also is fourth after struggling lately and is 131 points behind leader Kevin Harvick.

The Outlaws are coming to I-96 Speedway in Lake Odessa on Saturday night, and unfortunately, that's when the Sprint Cup is holding its annual All-Star Race at Lowe's Motor Speedway.

It's a race fan's worst nightmare, and the way NASCAR has moved so many races to Saturday nights, it's a dilemma we have to face more and more.

Meyers heads into Saturday's World of Outlaws action at I-96 Speedway third in the points standings with a series-high five wins.Cue The Clash. Should I Stay or Should I Go?

I always will take a night out at the local track over a night in front of the TV. But this is the All-Star Race. It's Dale Earnhardt's 1987 "Pass in the Grass." It's Rusty Wallace and Darrell Waltrip in 1989. It's Kyle Petty and Davey Allison in 1992.

This is a tough one.

I'm torn.

Go: The Outlaws is making its only appearance in the state this season, so you'll have to travel if you want to see them. There is nothing like watching those cars roar out of the fourth turn to take the green flag. My hair would stand up if I had any.

Stay: You can't miss the All-Star Race because anything goes. No points are awarded, but the winner gets $1 million.

Any driver who has won a race last year or this year gets to race. All-star winners from the past 10 years are in, and so is any driver who has won a championship. They also have a qualifying race, and the top two advance.

It does have short-track appeal because it is broken into four segments. The first is 50 laps, 20 laps for the second and third legs and a 10-lapper at the end to settle it.

Go: Goodyear has become the official tire of the Outlaws this season after years of running on Hoosiers. The new tires have brought new challenges for teams, and it should provide a new wrinkle when they hit the I-96 dirt at 7 p.m.

"We have had to come up with a new setup package, and I think that has leveled the playing field," said Jason Meyers, who is third in points with a series-high five wins.

Stay: It appears that the change from the wing to the spoiler has shaken up things a little bit in Cup, too. Johnson has slumped since the change seven races ago. Meanwhile, Joe Gibbs Racing, with drivers Kyle Busch and Denny Hamlin, are flying. The two have combined to win five of the seven races with the spoiler.

Go: Indiana driver Joey Saldana has proven to be one of motorsports' most inspirational stories this spring considering he broke his left hand in a race in March in Tennessee. Saldana had surgery March 26 in which 10 screws and a plate were inserted into his hand, and not only has he competed in every race, he is leading the points standings.

Stay: You want tough and inspirational? Let's talk about Denny Hamlin, who has won two races since having knee surgery March 31. Hamlin will go for his first All-Star win Saturday.

Go: Steve Kinser, who is the Outlaws' version of Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt all rolled into one, is looking like this might be the year he wins his 21st championship and first since 2005. Kinser has joined car owner Tony Stewart and is second in points, 13 behind Saldana.

Stay: If you want to see Stewart, catch him in the All-Star Race. Stewart is the defending winner.

Go: Come January, when it's 5 degrees out, you are going to be wishing you had gone to I-96.

Yeah, that's a good enough reason for me.

Aren't DVRs great?

Checkered Flags Feature

Checkered Flags: Lowell's Gary Vandermark gets best of track champ at I-96 Speedway
By Steve Kaminski |
The Grand Rapids Press


A reader e-mailed me last week and wondered why The Finish Line has decided to salute drivers this year instead of rank them.

Good question.

The new Checkered Flags feature enables The Finish Line to honor a different set of drivers every week. The rankings were a blast to do, but often, the same drivers popped up each week.

If you are saluted one week in Checkered Flags, you are not eligible the following week.

Don’t forget to e-mail stevekracer@aol.com with nominations. Five drivers will be honored each Wednesday.

Here are this week's honorees:

Chad Blonde, Litchfield
Butler Speedway opened its 2010 season Saturday, and Blonde was ready. The veteran open wheel driver grabbed the lead on lap 15 and went on to win the 25-lap winged sprint feature race.


Zack Olger, St. Johns
Olger won last weekend’s Late Model feature race at Mount Pleasant Speedway and took top honors in the Modified division. Olger is leading the Late Model point standings and is second in Modifieds.

Gary Vandermark, Lowell
The veteran driver took first in Saturday night’s Street Stock feature race at I-96 Speedway. Vandermark drove by defending track champion Aaron Wolf on the third lap and went on to win the 20-lap main.

Terry VanHaitsma, Hudsonville
VanHaitsma won Berlin Raceway’s Spring Classic 100 on Saturday in dominating fashion. VanHaitsma, who set fast time, pulled away on a lap 74 restart and crossed the finish line 11.8 seconds ahead of the field.

Alan Vochaska, South Haven
Vochaska won the Late Model feature race at Thunderbird Raceway on Friday night, then took the checkered flag Saturday at Hartford Motor Speedway. Vochaska is leading the Late Model points at Hartford and is second at Thunderbird.

Jeep Vanwormer & Winners around the State

Patiences pays off for Jeep VanWormer at I-96 Speedway with American Late Model Series win
By Steve Ungrey
The Grand Rapids Press

LAKE ODESSA -- It may have taken a while for the action to really get started, but Jeep VanWormer proved to be a patient driver.

VanWormer waited as the American Late Model Series got off to a slow start, with three caution flags and even a couple of stoppages in the first five laps, but he held on to beat Dusty Moore for the checkered flag Saturday night at I-96 Speedway.

The ALMS race, originally scheduled for 40 laps, was trimmed to 30 due to the excessive caution flags.

“It is rough,” said VanWormer, a Pinconning resident who finished the 2009 season in 19th place on the Late Model circuit. “It’s frustrating that guys need to have a little respect, let things sort out a little bit and then go racing. Of course, that’s easy to say a lot of times when you’re out front.”

VanWormer had rarely seen Moore prior to this race.

Moore, who lives in Swanton, Ohio, battled VanWormer throughout the competition and even overtook him a couple of times on the corners.

“We said not to get excited, don’t make mistakes and drive well on the green-flag laps,” VanWormer said.

VanWormer entered Saturday’s race third in the points standings, behind Doug Drown and Rusty Schlenk. This was only the second race of the ALMS season, and updated standings hadn’t been released as of Sunday night.

Bill Bray (Spring Lake), Brian Ruhlman (Clarklake) and Eric Spangler (Lake City) rounded out the top five.

In the 20-lap Street Stocks feature, Gary Vandermark (Lowell) was the winner ahead of Aaron Wolf (Clarksville) and Richard Hyvarinen.

The 20-lap Modifieds feature saw Lowell driver Mark Anderson capture the checkered flag ahead of Travis Stemler (Portland) and Jared Guinn (Hudsonville). Anderston, Stemler and Guinn were second through fourth in the point standings, respectively, and are likely to move to 1-2-3.

In the 4-cylinder “Road Beater” feature, Ada driver Dan Reimersma beat Kyle Shattuck for the checkered.

Here's a recap of winners from the weekend action around West Michigan and the state:

BERLIN RACEWAY

•Late Models: Terry VanHaitsma
•Super Stocks: Andrew Nylaan
•Pro Stocks: Weston Jewett
•VROA: Lou Caposey
CRYSTAL MOTOR SPEEDWAY

•Late Models: Jay Van Dyke
•Michigan Legends: Chance Rice
•IMCA Modifieds: Chad Wernette
•Pro Stocks: Derrick Dennis
•Flinn Stocks: Lee Zahm
•Street Stocks No. 1: Mike Vandermark
•Street Stocks No. 2: Jeff Fisher
I-96 SPEEDWAY

•Late Models: Jeep VanWormer
•UMP Modifieds: Mark Anderson
•Street Stocks: Gary Vandermark
•4 Cylinders: Dan Reimersma
KALAMAZOO SPEEDWAY

•Super Late Models: Brandon Lyons
•Modifieds: Mike Brooks
•Super Stocks: Phil Bozell
•Pro Stocks: Keith Wilfong
•Cyber Stocks: Nick Layman
THUNDERBIRD RACEWAY

•Late Models: Alan Vochaska
•UMP Modifieds: Randy Whitten
•UMP Street Stocks: Mike Lynn
•Thunder Stocks: Chris Schaub
•UMP Warriors: Ryan Hamm
•UMP Bombers: Spike Grega
•MORA: John Lehn
•UMP 4 Cylinders: Mark Farber
AROUND THE STATE

AUTO CITY SPEEDWAY

•Late Models: Joe Morrisette
•Street Stocks: Adam Rowe
•Pure Stocks: Lonnie Saumier Jr.
•Virtual Six: Jim Daniels
BUTLER SPEEDWAY

•Winged Sprints: Chad Blonde
•UMP Modifieds: Tommy Beezley
•Sportsman: Eric Swan
•Street Stocks: Glenn Heath
DIXIE MOTOR SPEEDWAY

•Modifieds: Ken O’Connor
•Pro Stocks: Don Riley
•Street Stocks: Robby Johnston
•Bombers: Cam Hiltz
•Figure 8’s: Jordan Lechota
FLAT ROCK

•305 Sprints: Kevin Shirey
•Street Stocks No. 1: Chad Guinn
•Street Stocks No. 2: Rich Abel
•Figure 8’s: Gary Cronenwett
GALESBURG SPEEDWAY

•Late Models: Luke Krick
•Sportsman: Todd Foote
•Mini Stocks: Jeremy Collins
•Street Stocks: John Foote Jr.
HARTFORD MOTOR SPEEDWAY

•UMP Modifieds: Brian Ruhlman
•UMP Late Models No. 1: JR Hotovy
•UMP Late Models No. 2: Alan Vochaska
•Stock Car No. 1: Kelli Jo Holfacker
•Stock Car No. 2: Jim Abbott
•Pure Stock No. 1: Steven Pena
•Pure Stock No. 2: Steven Pena
M40 SPEEDWAY

•Late Models: Eric McGlothlen
•GLS Mini Cup: Morgen Baird
•Pro Stocks: Jeff Ganus
•Pure Stocks: Burney Arnett
•Mini Stocks: Rich Hensley
MOTTVILLE SPEEDWAY

•Street Stocks: Brian Wilkerson
•Mini Stocks: Eric Frazier
•Mini Thunder Cars: Kevin Witmer
MT. PLEASANT SPEEDWAY

•Late Models: Zack Ogler
•UMP Modifieds: Zack Ogler
•Stock Car: Nate Murphy
•Mini Stocks: Trever Fedewa
•Stock Mini: Steve Keeler Jr.
OWOSSO SPEEDWAY

•Pro Stocks: Tony Basalone
•Pure Stocks: Ricky Moore
•Sport Stocks: Harley Smith
•Street Stocks: Dan Leeck

Randy Ellen Photos of I-96 Speedway: May 15th

Jeep VanWormer Late Model Winner a I-96 (Click on the Photo to look at more photos from I-96)

Berlin Raceway Results: May 15th

The feature winners for the night were Jewett, Nylann, Caposey and VanHaitsma.

Marne, MI- Blue skies and no rain in sight, it was welcomed change at Berlin Raceway this past weekend. The Coors Light Night featured Late Models, Super Stocks, Pro Stocks, and the Vintage Racing Organization of America (VROA). The feature winners for the night were Jewett, Nylann, Caposey and VanHaitsma.

The first feature race of the night was the Kerkstra Services Pro Stocks. Starting on front row was the #101 car with Lauren Bush, and the #88 of Tony Davis. Bush was quick to grab the lead during the first 24 laps of the race, she held a 1.47 second lead on the #51 of Weston Jewett until the yellow flag came out. Smoke filled the air with the engine failure of Davis, he would not return for the remainder of the race. Before the first lap after the caution was complete, a seven car wreck halted the racing action once again. The # 15 of Scott Root spun into Bush rounding turn 1, causing #22 Darin Neimi, #18 Denny Anderson, #36 Ken Smith Jr., #F1 Randy Veldman,#26 Brian Thome, and the #6 Brandon Hermiller to all spin out. Bush, Root, and Veldman would not return. Once the race resumed Jewett grasped the lead, he would sustain the top spot for the remaining laps.

On the start line for the Engine Pro Super Stocks were #50 Justin Regnerus and #32 Gabe Ensing. Regnerus and #51 Weston Jewett took an early lead; the first caution of the night would come out during lap 5. The #00 of J.B Neiwek spun out, fortunately he would not collide with anyone else. The second yellow flag appeared during lap 8, #55 Dave Lane hit the fence coming out of turn 1. An additional three cars would be in the collision, the #98 Bob Bliss, #26 Chris Muyskens, and #44 Brian VanZalen would spin to avoid further damage. Regnerus, #51 Justin Ryan, #18 Denny Anderson would establish themselves ahead of the pack. By lap 13 the Regnerus had a very comfortable lead. At the half way mark Anderson, Regnerus, and Ryan were the top three leaders. During lap 23 #77 Andrew Nylann made his move to the front. By lap 33 Nylann and Regnerus were bumper to bumper. Nylann finally took the lead with 2 to go. The final caution of the feature race would come during the final lap, when the #1 Brian Wiersma and #95 Ray VanAllsburg collided on the back stretch. Nylann would be in victory lane for the first time this season.

Next was the Vintage Racing Association feature. Andrew Bartoszek in the #81 and Larry Mollohan in the # 47 car were the starting two for the feature race, by lap 4 Mollohan took the lead, but by lap 5 the yellow flag came out when #86 Bob Martin spun to avoid Bartoszek in the front stretch grass. When the race resumed, #3 Lou Caposey took the lead with Mollohan, and Martin following close by. During lap 14 Martin began to make his way to the front. Martin was neck and neck with the Caposey until he spun out on the back stretch during lap 18. This would be the first of three cautions before the race could be resumed. The checker was waved during lap 18, Caposey would take the win.

The last feature race of the night was the Coors Light Late Models. On front row for the 100 lap race was #33 Monte Tolan, and #61 Joe Bush. A complete restart was necessary before lap 1 was completed. The #33 of Monte Tolan got loose and the rest of the field checked up. Bush pulled ahead, but would be deterred on lap 2 when #19 Nick Shotko hit the wall. By lap 12 the Bush and #12 Tim DeVos enjoyed a nice gap between them and the rest of the field. The DeVos would then pass Bush on the outside lane to take the lead. A new leader would emerge during lap 50 when #55 Chris Anthony stole the lead. Yet another caution would come out during lap 63, when #22 Josh Slade hit the wall coming out of turn 4. #21 Tim VanHaitsma took full advantage; he would capture the lead, following would be Anthony and # 37 Terry Senneker with the DeVos falling to fourth. VanHaitsma pulled ahead of the pack, by lap 90 he would enjoy an 8 second lead. Finishing with a 11.864 lead ahead of everyone, VanHaitsma took the checker, Bush, #32 Ross Meeuwsen, Anthony, DeVos, #24 Lee Vandyke, #28 Scott Thomas, #1 Barry Hartwell, Senneker, and Slade would round out the top ten.

In town next week will be the Auto Value Super Sprints. They will be joined by the USA Modifieds, who will have a 75 lap feature race. Pro Stocks and 4-Cylinders will also be in action. Tickets will be $15.00 for adults. Children ages 6-12 will be $5.00, children 5 and under are FREE. The racing action begins promptly at 7pm. For more information please visit www.berlinraceway.com

Crystal Motor Speedway Results: May 15th

May 15th Results!

Saturday night at Crystal Motor Speedway was one of the first decent night’s weather wise of the young 2010 season. A huge crowd was treated to 135 cars in the pits and a full slate of racing with all six normal classes plus Auto Value Bumper to Bumper/Michigan Legends Series presented by Z-Max. The first order of business was the rained off April 24th Street Stock event and Mike Vandermark won over Brooke Ann Brasington, Al Kiester, Jasen Wiley, and James Prochazka.

The Races On The Web 24/7 Flinn Stocks were first on the track and when the green dropped, it was Neil Zeigler taking the early lead but he was soon over taken by Lee Zahm and Richard Melton. Melton came under Zahm in a challenge for the lead but Zahm held on. A quick caution realigned the pack and when the green flag fell, six laps remained. Cory Burch took over second from Melton as Zahm continued to run up front. With only two to go, Chance Allen challenged Burch for second, which allowed Zahm to pull away and take the win. He was followed by Allen, Burch, Melton, Zach Rummer, Neil Zeigler, Ryan Brady, Chris DeCamp, Justin Crandall, and Chris Pironello. Burch and Austin Bean took heat wins.

The Michigan Legends took to the field and it was Levi Rouster leading the way but within a few laps, Paul McCollum slid under him for the lead. Marty Sowles and Tony Monge had a great battle for third and fourth for several laps, which soon turned into a four way battle with Rouster, Monge, Sowles and Chance Rice nearly side by side as the half way point came around. Monge and Rice made the pass for the lead as positions shuffled frequently. Rice and Monge began to pull away with each taking turns at the front. With only five laps remaining, Monge and Rice were running within inches of each other, fighting for the lead. Rice overtook Monge with three to go and went on to take the win over Monge, Sowles, McCollum, Rouster, Loren Short, Todd McCollum, Gary Joppich, Adam Van Cleave, and Guy Fire. Monge and Rice brought home heat wins.

The Kentucky Fried Chicken sponsored Late Model feature found Tom Dusen, Jay Van Dyke and Scott Haney running up front. Haney and Van Dyke swapped places a couple times as Dusen held a smooth line up front. The leaders had just began to work their way through lapped traffic when a caution flew for a spun car and when the green once again flew, it was Dusen, Van Dyke, Haney, Brock Cogswell and Mark Andersen making up the top five. Dusen was cruising along, just waiting for the checkered flag but suddenly pitted with mechanical problems, handing the lead over to Van Dyke with seven to go. Van Dyke held on to take the win but there was a huge pile up just behind him. After it was all sorted out, second went to Andersen, followed by Kyle Borgman, Cogswell, Matt Pickard, Keith Gentz, Dale Sheehy, Mickey Carman, Jr., Renton Hurley, and Dean Huizenga. Haney and Dusen claimed heat gold.

Derrick Dennis led the early going of the Port City Pro Stocks with Reb Marble not far back. Doug McKeown made the move to second but immediately felt pressure from Derek Schestag. A caution flew for an incident in turn one, grouping the pack again. Once green again, Dennis continued his lead with Schestag following and began to challenge for the lead with Vern Buskirk tight behind. Buskirk moved to second then began to challenge for the lead as the leaders were tightly packed. Ryan Kent had made his way to the top four with everyone within whispering distance. Kent slid under Dennis to take the lead. As the rest of the field battled, Kent finished a great run to pick up his first ever Pro Stock feature. He was followed by Dennis, Chaney Newland, Vern Buskirk, Derek Schestag, Mike Husted, Doug McKeown, Sr., Larry Kosloski, Barry Rinard, and Reb Marble. Barry Rinard grabbed the B Feature with heat wins falling to Kent, Dennis, and Jack Emmons.

When the Smokers Club of Mt Pleasant Street Stock feature began, Jeff Fisher grabbed the lead but Mike Vandermark was charging hard and settled in for second while Anthony Carlton took third. Vandermark slid under Fisher in turn four to take the lead, hoping to grab his second feature win of the night. Vandermark had moved out to a comfortable lead but then suffered a flat rear tire, causing him to drop back and handing the lead back to Fisher. Carlton, Al Keister, and Kevin Dard battled for second as Fisher went on for his first feature win. Carlton held on for second, followed by Dard, Shane Spencer, Kiester, Luke Sickles, Larry Bulson III, James Prochazka, Zach Hoyt, and Dan Rusco. Fisher and Dard posed for heat wins.

Tim Sooy, Ashlee Scott, and Cark Thayer were the early leaders in the Port City Pro Truck feature event. Thayer moved into second when Scott got high in the turns and he began to challenge for the lead. A couple quick cautions slowed the field but when racing resumed, it was Thayer, Nieman, and Scott one two three. Chris Verhaar and Aaron Raby held fourth and fifth. Scott got loose and slid up the banking, falling back to fifth. Thayer continued his lead with Neiman and Verhaar hot on his bumper with three to go. Thayer stayed strong and took the win over Nieman, Verhaar, Raby, Scott, Tim Wood, Kevin Deal, Gaven Parks, Dave Peters, and Brady Hollenbeck. Scott and Gary Dancer brought home heat trophies.

The Engine Pro IMCA Modified feature saw Tim Lytle grab the lead over Rodney King, Chad Burke making up the top three. King spun in turn two, bringing out the caution. Lytle continued to lead with Wernette and Cliff Denman battle for second and Myron DeYoung not far back. Lytle got loose and slid up but managed to keep the lead. The two raced side by side for several laps with Denman and DeYoung duking it out for third. Wernette slid around to take the lead with two to go and went on to win over Lytle, DeYoung, Denman, Brennan Bowen, Josh Borton, Brody Bowser, Chad Burke, J.R. Schmid and Rusty Zeigler. Roger Flinn III and Greg Wiles claimed B Feature wins with heats going to Bowen, King, and Zeigler.

Next week at Crystal Motor Speedway is the always popular “Yes 2 Kids Night” and the Janet Zeigler Memorial race. Kids arriving at the track by 6PM and keep their admission ticket can ride with one of their favorite drivers between 6 and 7PM. Gates open at 4:30 PM and racing starts at 7:30, Adult admission to the grandstands is $10 and kids 5-11 are $4. Pit passes are $25. Further information can be obtained by calling the office at 989.235.5200

I-96 Speedway Results: May 15th

May 15, 2010
Lake Odessa, MI.

Street stocks
Feature
1. Gary Vandermark
2. Aaron wolf
3. Richard Hyvarinen
4. Ron Harper
5. Larry Zander
6. Hillary Smith
7. Joel Hummel
8. Ron Hodges Jr
9. Richard Sweet
10. Steve Piercefield
11. Harvey Wyskowski
Heat-Gary Vandermark

UMP Modifieds
Feature
1. Mark Anderson
2. Travis Stemler
3. Jared Guinn
4. Curt Spalding
5. Tim Stemler
6. Todd Feutz
7. Shannon Fisk
8. Tim Dalman
9. Justin Fleming
10. Larry Vanderwoude
11. Derek Passenier
12. Kyle Roberts
13. Brian Roark
14. Nick Messner
15. Rich RobinsonJr.
16. Zach Olger
17. Pat Ehlert
18. Chance Hoppes
19. Steve Shellenberger
20. Stan Bray
21. Eric Knight
22. CJ Rector
23. Loren Peterson III
Heats- Olger, T. Stemler

UMP Late models (39 Cars)
Feature
1. Jeep VanWormer
2. Dusty Moore
3. Bill Bray
4. Brian Ruhlman
5. Eric Spangler
6. Brandon Thirlby
7. Curtis Roberts
8. Kris Patterson
9. JR Hotovy
10. Troy Cattarene
11. Scott Ehlert
12. CJ Haskett
13. Rick Delong
14. Roger Wing
15. Rich Neisser
16. Trevor Sloan
17. Zach Olger
18. Bry Sloan
19. Ryan VanderVeen
20. Sam Epling
21. Dan Hubble
22. Carl Ries
23. Jerry Bowersock
Heats-T. Sloan, Bowersock, Spangler, VanWormer
B Main 1-Moore
B Main 2-Epling

4 Cylinders
Feature
1. Dan Reimersma
2. Kyle Shattuck
3. Scott Rumsey
4. Richard Peck
5. Jason Feutz
6. William Morgan
7. Colee Ruesink
8. Steve Wawiemia
9. Dillon Gentry
10. Calvin Stemler
11. Terry Henderson
12. Tyler Quillan
13. Greg Pinard
14. Michael Vezino
Heats-Rumsey, Reimersma

Late Model Class Suffering at Berlin

Economy takes toll on expensive Late Model class at Berlin Raceway
By Steve Kaminski
The Grand Rapids Press

MARNE -- Berlin Raceway officials offered a 100-lap Late Model feature race Saturday night, then waved a $2,000-to-win check in front of the field.

A program such as this would have likely attracted more than 30 cars a decade ago, but times have changed. Only 14 cars took the green flag Saturday.

Drivers and car owners pointed to the economy for the steady drop off in Late Models in recent years. The car counts for Berlin’s Super Stock, Pro Stock and 4 Cylinder classes remain solid. However, the Late Models are the track’s fastest class, and the cars are the most expensive.

"The economy is taking its toll on a lot of them,” said veteran Lee Van Dyk of Grand Rapids, who drives the No. 24 Late Model. “And drivers from other tracks don’t want to come here because these boys are bad fast.

“You are going to spend $50,000 on a car, and then you are going to spend a $1,000 a night racing. We don’t do it for the money.”

Tracks nationwide also have seen a decline in the Outlaw Late Models. The downward trend has Berlin second-year promoter Mike Blackmer concerned about the division’s future. The class is scheduled to race 12 times this season at Berlin, and Blackmer said what the future years holds remains a question mark.

“Outlaw racing will be racing here,” he said. “But we will have to see if it is every week or if its special events. They will be here, and if there are fewer races, there will be more money. It’s all going to depend on car count.

“I want to see it survive. Super Late Model racing is my favorite racing as a promoter. You stand up on top of the tower and see those Late Models go around the track, it’s awesome. There is no bigger rush than that."

Car owner Terry Gentry of Holland is optimistic about the division’s future. He fields cars for Terry Senneker Jr. and Steve Needles. Senneker won the track championship at Kalamazoo Speedway a year ago.

“The economy has hurt the number of Late Models. Fortunately, the lower classes have good numbers,” Gentry said. “I’m disappointed, but I think it is going to come back once the economy comes back. That’s the crutch of the problem right now.

“(Blackmer) is doing a tremendous job here and he has the track headed in the right direction. The economy has to turn around, and people will come back to the track to spend some money when it does.”

THE BUZZ
Saturday’s stars: Weston Jewett (Pro Stocks), Andrew Nylaan (Super Stocks), Lou Caposey (VROA) won feature races. Terry VanHaitsma won the 100-lap Late Model main.

Did you see that? Rookie Lauren Bush of Hastings, 16, started on the pole of the Pro Stock feature and led the first 24 laps. However, she spun out on a Lap 24 restart and finished 17th.

Did you hear that? "Toward the end of last year, my brother and I figured something out with the setup and we ended up winning three of the last five races or something like that. I was hoping over the winter, I would be able to come back and keep that momentum going." -- Pro Stock winner Weston Jewett.

Up next: The Auto Value Super Sprints will make its first Berlin Raceway appearance next Saturday. The program will include the USA Modifieds, Pro Stocks and 4 Cylinders.