Johnny Benson News

Grand Rapids' Johnny Benson plans to drive in six Berlin Raceway events


Published: Wednesday, February 02, 2011
By Steve Kaminski
The Grand Rapids Press
Camping World Truck Series 2008 champion Johnny Benson Jr. continues to search for a NASCAR ride, but, in the meantime, the Grand Rapids driver plans to return to his Berlin Raceway roots.

Benson intends to race for the charity-driven, West Michigan-based Racingawareness.com team in Berlin’s brand new Premier Boyne Machine Super Lates division this summer. The class offers template bodied Late Model stock car racing.

Jeff Striegle of Byron Center, who is an owner with the Racingawareness.com team, said Benson is scheduled to compete in six races, beginning with the June 21 Rowdy 251, featuring NASCAR standout Kyle Busch.

Benson, 48, began his career on West Michigan short-tracks, and his 1989 Berlin Late Model track championship helped launched his NASCAR career. Benson has won races in each of NASCAR’s top three levels.

“We are thrilled,” Striegle said. “Johnny is respected by the other drivers and loved by the fans for obvious reasons, so we are excited to have him race with us.”

Racingawareness.com raised approximately $55,000 for the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Foundation in its first season in 2010. Striegle, along with Berlin track announcer Norm Jelsma and Mike Bursley, an owner with Perfect Circle Racecars of Jenison, founded and maintain the team.

The team fielded a Berlin Modified and will be returning in 2011 to compete for the track championship with driver Dave Lake, who won Berlin’s Super Stock title this past season. Striegle said the team’s first year was such a success that they decided to expand to two cars this season. Benson will be driving a Perfect Circle Late Model.

“We have one of the best, if not the best driver to campaign at Berlin,” Striegle said. “He gives us the kind of exposure for the cause that we are looking for. This completes our team.”

Berlin promoter Mike Blackmer said the new class has created plenty of interest.

“This is awesome. I can’t wait for April,” Blackmer said. “We have had a number of guys already commit, like Brian Campbell and Johnny VanDoorn and Eric Jones, a 17-year old up-and-comer from Lansing. We have Kelsey Steele and Brandon Hermiller and Gabe Ensing planning to run.

“We have reduced prices this year, and our sales for season tickets are up. I think you will see our crowds up, and they will see some great racing.”

Berlin’s 61st season is scheduled to open April 23.