Track tweaked for Micro Sprint Cars at DeltaPlex
Published: Thursday, February 03, 2011
By Steve Kaminski
The Grand Rapids Press
Micro Sprint Car driver Dan Dunigan Jr. has a name for the type of racing fans can expect to see Saturday night at the DeltaPlex Arena in Walker.
“It’s in your face racing,” the Jackson-born driver said. “In this type of racing, you have to be very responsive and react quickly. There is no giving the car in front of you room, and you are in traffic all the time.”
DeltaPlex will host the Coors Thunder on the Grand at 7 p.m., with a program of Micro Sprint Cars, Quarter Midgets and go-karts.
Arena Racing has brought indoor racing to the DeltaPlex for more than two years, but unlike past programs, the aluminum track will remain in storage.
Jack Gritter, who heads the Arena Racing tech team, has organized Saturday’s program, and it was his idea to bring in Micro Sprints for the first time. Gritter said go-karts ran exhibition events in the past, and it proved to be too bumpy. He also doesn’t believe the track was wide enough to run Micro Sprints.
That’s why officials will host the races on the floor. Cement blocks will serve as an outer barrier for the track, and a catch fence will be installed on top of the blocks. In addition, 15 gallons of coke syrup will be poured onto the floor to provide traction.
While Dunigan has never been to DeltaPlex, he is envisioning it to be an action-packed bull ring.
”You are going to have to fight for your spot. Indoor racing is a lot different,” said Dunigan, 27. “Fifty percent of it is skill, and 50 percent of it is luck. Half the time, someone wrecks in front of you, and there is no time to stop.”
Dunigan races for his father, and he spends the winter months competing at indoor shows. The team was in Atlantic City this past weekend.
”They are fast and quick and they hug the floor,” the elder Dunigan said. “They run 600 cc motorcycle engines, and they are basically a smaller size version of the Sprint Car. We think they are more exciting than a full-size Sprint Car show because they are very agile machines.
”We race indoor in six different states, and they have had big shows out east for 20 years. But we don’t have shows like this in Michigan, so we are excited about this one.”
COORS THUNDER ON THE GRAND
Where: DeltaPlex Arena in Walker
When: 7 p.m. Saturday
Tickets: $10 each
Thursday, February 3, 2011
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.
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.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
"Thunder on the Grand" February 5th
Walker, MII. – Coors light, the official beer of NASCAR, will serve as a primary sponsor of the “Thunder on the Grand,” race night at the DeltaPlex Arena on February 5, 2011.
“We are glad to have Coors light as the race day sponsor for “Thunder on the Grand” explains Peter Jackson General Manager for Arena Racing Grand Rapids.
“They (Coors) have been involved with us for some time now, and it is great to see them continue their support with us as we create indoor racing for race fans in West Michigan in the winter.” continues Jackson
“Thunder on the Grand” will feature nine classes of quarter midgets including the World Formula cars, eight classes of go carts with an open division competing, arena racing cars and the feature cars 600cc Mini Sprints non-winged and winged.
“This is going to be a very exciting race day in West Michigan explains Jack Gritter Race Director for “Thunder on the Grand”. “This will be a full day of racing for all to enjoy.” “And if you have not had a chance to see the mini-sprints indoors you are really in for a treat”.
Tickets for the “Coors Light Thunder on the Grand ” are available at the DeltaPlex Coliseum box office, Further information, including race headquarters hotel rates, is available at deltaplex.com or by contacting Jack Gritter at jack@arenaracinggr.com.
More information about Arena Racing is available at Arenaracingusa.com.
Contacts:
Peter Jackson
GM: Arena Racing Grand Rapids
http://www.arenaracinggr.com/
616-364-9000
Stan Sacha
General Manager: The DeltaPlex
http://www.deltaplex.com/
616-364-9000
Michigan Dirt Cup Series News
Seven-race Michigan Dirt Cup Tour starts in spring
By Steve Kaminski
The Grand Rapids Press
Bill Long is planning to give the weekend short-track driver a bigger stage to race on this season.
Long, of Flint, has announced the creation of the Michigan Dirt Cup Tour, a traveling seven-race series for dirt UMP Modified open wheel cars. The series will debut April 30 with a $1,500-to-win race at the I-96 Speedway in Lake Odessa.
Long has been busy this winter working with promoters, drivers and sponsors across the state getting the series jumpstarted.
It means that drivers will have the opportunity to tackle different tracks, square off against some of the best racers in the Midwest, compete for a bigger payday and pad their resumes.
“So far, knock on wood, it has all been positive,” Long said. “The drivers love the idea of having a Modified tour in Michigan, and the promoters have been great to work with. What tracks have done schedule nights off for for their Modified classes when we race so they can come to our events.
“This is not for the weak-hearted because it has been a lot of work. But it has surprisingly gone better than I thought.”
I-96 officials continue to put the finishing touches on its 2011 schedule, which is expected to be completed in the next week. However, the April 30 program will serve as the track’s season opener.
MICHIGAN DIRT CUP TOUR
• April 30 -- I-96 Speedway
• June 11 -- Butler Speedway
• June 17 -- Winston Speedway
• July 2 -- Owendale Speedway
• July 22 -- Cherry Raceway
• Aug 21 -- Mt. Pleasant Speedway
• Oct 1 -- Hartford Motor Speedway
"We're very honored to be hosting the inaugural Michigan Dirt Cup Modified series race at I-96 Speedway,” said I-96 spokesperson and announcer Matt Prieur. “This race makes our 2011 season opener, the 6th annual Ice Breaker, that much more prestigious.
“That race is also our opener for the weekly UMP Modifieds, and add in the fact that it's the season openers for the UMP Late Models, UMP Street Stocks and UMP Sport Compacts as well, this is truly a great way to kick off the 2011 racing season at I-96 Speedway."
Long is a former asphalt racer, starting out in Enduro race before pursuing Street Stocks, Limited Late Models and Super Late Models racing at a number of tracks, including Dixie Motor Speedway, Owosso Speedway, Kalamazoo Speedway and Spartan Speedway in Lansing. Long later went to work at Mt. Pleasant Speedway and learned the promotional side of short-track racing.
Long is now putting his experience as a driver and promoter to work. Prize money will pay $200 to start and $1,500 to win, with the exception of the seventh race at Hartford Motor Speedway, which will award $5,000 to the winner. The 2011 points champion will collect a $5,000 bonus.
“We would like to see a 35-car plus field for each race, but this is the first year, and I expect some bumps and bruises along the way,” Long said. “It’s not just a Michigan thing either. We welcome drivers from other states, too.
“We are doing this for the drivers, and we want to bring back that fan-driver relationship. We are putting together a program, and inside it, we will have each competitor’s picture with the car. We are hoping to see the young fans in the pits getting their programs signed by the drivers after the races.”
By Steve Kaminski
The Grand Rapids Press
Bill Long is planning to give the weekend short-track driver a bigger stage to race on this season.
Long, of Flint, has announced the creation of the Michigan Dirt Cup Tour, a traveling seven-race series for dirt UMP Modified open wheel cars. The series will debut April 30 with a $1,500-to-win race at the I-96 Speedway in Lake Odessa.
Long has been busy this winter working with promoters, drivers and sponsors across the state getting the series jumpstarted.
It means that drivers will have the opportunity to tackle different tracks, square off against some of the best racers in the Midwest, compete for a bigger payday and pad their resumes.
“So far, knock on wood, it has all been positive,” Long said. “The drivers love the idea of having a Modified tour in Michigan, and the promoters have been great to work with. What tracks have done schedule nights off for for their Modified classes when we race so they can come to our events.
“This is not for the weak-hearted because it has been a lot of work. But it has surprisingly gone better than I thought.”
I-96 officials continue to put the finishing touches on its 2011 schedule, which is expected to be completed in the next week. However, the April 30 program will serve as the track’s season opener.
MICHIGAN DIRT CUP TOUR
• April 30 -- I-96 Speedway
• June 11 -- Butler Speedway
• June 17 -- Winston Speedway
• July 2 -- Owendale Speedway
• July 22 -- Cherry Raceway
• Aug 21 -- Mt. Pleasant Speedway
• Oct 1 -- Hartford Motor Speedway
"We're very honored to be hosting the inaugural Michigan Dirt Cup Modified series race at I-96 Speedway,” said I-96 spokesperson and announcer Matt Prieur. “This race makes our 2011 season opener, the 6th annual Ice Breaker, that much more prestigious.
“That race is also our opener for the weekly UMP Modifieds, and add in the fact that it's the season openers for the UMP Late Models, UMP Street Stocks and UMP Sport Compacts as well, this is truly a great way to kick off the 2011 racing season at I-96 Speedway."
Long is a former asphalt racer, starting out in Enduro race before pursuing Street Stocks, Limited Late Models and Super Late Models racing at a number of tracks, including Dixie Motor Speedway, Owosso Speedway, Kalamazoo Speedway and Spartan Speedway in Lansing. Long later went to work at Mt. Pleasant Speedway and learned the promotional side of short-track racing.
Long is now putting his experience as a driver and promoter to work. Prize money will pay $200 to start and $1,500 to win, with the exception of the seventh race at Hartford Motor Speedway, which will award $5,000 to the winner. The 2011 points champion will collect a $5,000 bonus.
“We would like to see a 35-car plus field for each race, but this is the first year, and I expect some bumps and bruises along the way,” Long said. “It’s not just a Michigan thing either. We welcome drivers from other states, too.
“We are doing this for the drivers, and we want to bring back that fan-driver relationship. We are putting together a program, and inside it, we will have each competitor’s picture with the car. We are hoping to see the young fans in the pits getting their programs signed by the drivers after the races.”
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Looking for a fun night out and support a great cause?
The Michigan Short Track Racing Club (MSTRC) is proud to announce details regarding the 8th annual MSTRC Bowling Tournament! The widely popular fundraising and short track racing event will once again be held at the immaculate Capitol Bowl in downtown Owosso, Michigan on Saturday, February 12th, 2011.
The annual bowling tournament and bench racing extravaganza for the short track racing community in the state of Michigan was started in 2004 as a way for the racing community in the great auto racing state of Michigan to get together over the winter and bowl for a great cause.
The MSTRC Bowling Tournament is now one of the biggest fundraisers dedicated to the short track racing industry in the State of Michigan for racing families in need. This year’s tournament will once again benefit two well known family members of the racing community in the Great Lakes State.
The first beneficiary of the 8th annual MSTRC Bowling Tournament will be Brock Cogswell, a regular Super Late Models competitor at the 3/8s (0.375) mile semi-banked dirt oval of the Crystal Motor Speedway in Crystal, Michigan. The Davisburg, Michigan driver was involved in an on track accident which resulted in him breaking his foot and ankle. Since the accident, Cogswell has been unable to work due to complications from those injuries.
The second beneficiary will be Dick LaPratt, a former Modifieds competitor at the ¼ (0.250) mile semi-banked paved oval of the Spartan Speedway in Mason, Michigan. LaPratt, who resides in Mason, worked at the Lansing Board of Water and Light and over the years, has had significant Shoulder Problems which has required Two surgeries. Later, more serious concerns with such problems as Lung Problems and Kidney Failure have slowed LaPratt.
The 8th annual MSTRC Bowling Tournament will begin with Sign In and Lane Assignments at "High Noon" 12:00p.m., with Optional "Hot Laps" / Practice beginning at 12:30p.m. Practice will end at 1:15p.m. Then after the random drawing for partners, followed by an Invocation and National Anthem, bowling will start at approximately 1:30p.m.
A $10.00 donation is all it costs to join in on the fun and all participants will bowl Two (2) Games. Participants don't even have to bowl with their partner! Everyone can still bowl with the group you came with on one or more lanes.
In addition, you don't even have to bowl to participate! Everyone is encouraged to come out and support this annual event. Their will be numerous door prizes to be given away throughout the afternoon as well as 50/50 drawings and several special prizes to be distributed.
Following the bowling tournament, the MSTRC Bowling Tournament Awards Ceremony will be held approximately 45-60 minutes after the completion of Bowling in the bowling alleys' adjacent lounge, "The Capitol Bowl Hot Spot."
After the Awards Ceremony, the ARCA Racing Series Presented by Menards 2011 Season Opener, the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 will be shown live on SPEED from Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida on the surrounding televisions throughout the massive bowling alley and inside the Capitol Bowl Hot Spot. Then later in the evening, the Budweiser Shootout for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series will be LIVE on the televisions as well!
Capitol Bowl is located at 219 South Washington Street behind the J.C. Penny's store and Roma’s Back Door Pizzeria and directly across the street from Jumbo’s Bar and Grill in Downtown Owosso, Michigan. For more information about Capitol Bowl and the surrounding downtown attractions as well as hotel accommodations, log onto their website at: www.capitolbowl.net
During the seventh edition of the tournament back on February 13th, 2010, Capitol Bowl was once again packed as the tournament benefitted two family members of the racing community; Jake Dickman of the Mt. Pleasant Speedway in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan and Alan Taft of A.T. Racing Engines in Ovid, Michigan.
As for the award winners of the 7th annual MSTRC Bowling Tournament, Kris Hudson and Jeremy Kelley were crowned the overall winners as they combined to roll a 716 in the two games bowled to win the Team High Series Award over Erin Kline and Matt Prieur, who finished just nine pins behind with a 707.
For the individual award winners, Ed Inloes rolled the highest game of the tournament with a 245 to win the Men’s High Game while Denny Smith won the Men’s High Series title with a 457 series. For the women, Erin Kline was the most successful bowler of the entire tournament as she finished second with her partner, Matt Prieur in the Team High Series. She was the winner of the Women’s High Game Award with a 237 and she also rolled a high series of 411.
In MSTRC Bowling Tournament tradition however, no one bowler can win more than one award, so Teresa Beckner was awarded the Women’s High Series trophy with a 396 series to keep the streak alive of a Beckner winning at least one award in the Bowling Tournament at four consecutive years.
Arlee Jenkins picked up the Greg Yost Memorial Never Give Up Award for rolling a “new record low” game of a 40. The award was renamed the Greg Yost Memorial Never Give Up Award in 2009 in honor of the late Greg Yost, a benefactor during the 3rd annual tournament, who passed away in August of 2006.
Dave and Eldora Howe of Beacon Sales and Service in Charlotte, Michigan were the winners of the 2009 / 2010 Chris Throgmartin Dedication and Spirit Award for their continuous efforts and support of weekly short track racing in Michigan.
“Team Big Mouth” took home the special Traveling Team Award pitting them against Team Gone Fishin. Team Big Mouth consisted of; Ed Inloes, Dave Kennedy, Matt Prieur, Shaun Whitney, and Roger Williams. Members of Team Gone Fishin included; Brandon Curtis, Chuck Darling, Brian Howey, Ken Shook, and Kyle Trinklein. Team Big Mouth won the special Five-Man Team Award as they defeated Team Gone Fishin 1454-1260 to take home the Special Traveling “We Whipped Your A$$ Award for the fourth year in a row.
The MSTRC Bowling Tournament was started in 2004 and for the first three years, was held at Nic’s Restaurant & Bowl (Formerly Tri-Ami Lanes) in Ovid, Michigan. In 2007, a decision was made to move the tournament to a bigger facility and the newly renovated Capitol Bowl in downtown Owosso, Michigan and since then, Capitol Bowl has been the home of the MSTRC Bowling Tournament and will continue to be for the foreseeable future.
Past beneficiaries of the MSTRC Bowling Tournament include; Buck Harsen (2004), Michael Putnam (2005), the Crook Family (2005), the Bouwman Family (2006), the late Greg Yost (2006), Verwayne Greenhoe (2007), the Persails Family (2007), Chad Faur (2008), Matt Schindewolf (2008), the Newman Family (2009), Daniel “Doc” Dutton (2009), Jake Dickman (2010), and Alan Taft (2010).
As in years past, the beneficiaries were decided on by the membership of the Michigan Short Track Racing Club as Nominations were presented on the MSTRC message board and decided on by the senior members of the MSTRC Bowling Tournament Committee. That committee consists of; Brenda and Chuck Darling, Linda and Ed Inloes, Elaine and Matt Prieur, and Verwayne Greenhoe.
For more information about the 8th annual MSTRC Bowling Tournament, and to make a donation to the tournament with door prizes, or if you can't make it to the tournament and would like to donate anyways; Please e-mail the following committee members;
For MSTRC Founder, Chuck Darling, you can e-mail him at; mstrc_ceo88@yahoo.com For MSTRC President, Verwayne Greenhoe, you can e-mail him at: bmoc66@gmail.com For Ed Inloes, his e-mail address is; gb48507@yahoo.com and for Matt Prieur, you can reach him at: mprieur@mph-promotions.com
You can also log onto the Michigan Short Track Racing Club Website at: http://www.mstrc.com/ Then click on "Michigan Auto Racing Discussion" and scroll down for the Thread titled "Official 8th annual MSTRC Bowling Tournament Information"
The annual bowling tournament and bench racing extravaganza for the short track racing community in the state of Michigan was started in 2004 as a way for the racing community in the great auto racing state of Michigan to get together over the winter and bowl for a great cause.
The MSTRC Bowling Tournament is now one of the biggest fundraisers dedicated to the short track racing industry in the State of Michigan for racing families in need. This year’s tournament will once again benefit two well known family members of the racing community in the Great Lakes State.
The first beneficiary of the 8th annual MSTRC Bowling Tournament will be Brock Cogswell, a regular Super Late Models competitor at the 3/8s (0.375) mile semi-banked dirt oval of the Crystal Motor Speedway in Crystal, Michigan. The Davisburg, Michigan driver was involved in an on track accident which resulted in him breaking his foot and ankle. Since the accident, Cogswell has been unable to work due to complications from those injuries.
The second beneficiary will be Dick LaPratt, a former Modifieds competitor at the ¼ (0.250) mile semi-banked paved oval of the Spartan Speedway in Mason, Michigan. LaPratt, who resides in Mason, worked at the Lansing Board of Water and Light and over the years, has had significant Shoulder Problems which has required Two surgeries. Later, more serious concerns with such problems as Lung Problems and Kidney Failure have slowed LaPratt.
The 8th annual MSTRC Bowling Tournament will begin with Sign In and Lane Assignments at "High Noon" 12:00p.m., with Optional "Hot Laps" / Practice beginning at 12:30p.m. Practice will end at 1:15p.m. Then after the random drawing for partners, followed by an Invocation and National Anthem, bowling will start at approximately 1:30p.m.
A $10.00 donation is all it costs to join in on the fun and all participants will bowl Two (2) Games. Participants don't even have to bowl with their partner! Everyone can still bowl with the group you came with on one or more lanes.
In addition, you don't even have to bowl to participate! Everyone is encouraged to come out and support this annual event. Their will be numerous door prizes to be given away throughout the afternoon as well as 50/50 drawings and several special prizes to be distributed.
Following the bowling tournament, the MSTRC Bowling Tournament Awards Ceremony will be held approximately 45-60 minutes after the completion of Bowling in the bowling alleys' adjacent lounge, "The Capitol Bowl Hot Spot."
After the Awards Ceremony, the ARCA Racing Series Presented by Menards 2011 Season Opener, the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 will be shown live on SPEED from Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida on the surrounding televisions throughout the massive bowling alley and inside the Capitol Bowl Hot Spot. Then later in the evening, the Budweiser Shootout for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series will be LIVE on the televisions as well!
Capitol Bowl is located at 219 South Washington Street behind the J.C. Penny's store and Roma’s Back Door Pizzeria and directly across the street from Jumbo’s Bar and Grill in Downtown Owosso, Michigan. For more information about Capitol Bowl and the surrounding downtown attractions as well as hotel accommodations, log onto their website at: www.capitolbowl.net
During the seventh edition of the tournament back on February 13th, 2010, Capitol Bowl was once again packed as the tournament benefitted two family members of the racing community; Jake Dickman of the Mt. Pleasant Speedway in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan and Alan Taft of A.T. Racing Engines in Ovid, Michigan.
As for the award winners of the 7th annual MSTRC Bowling Tournament, Kris Hudson and Jeremy Kelley were crowned the overall winners as they combined to roll a 716 in the two games bowled to win the Team High Series Award over Erin Kline and Matt Prieur, who finished just nine pins behind with a 707.
For the individual award winners, Ed Inloes rolled the highest game of the tournament with a 245 to win the Men’s High Game while Denny Smith won the Men’s High Series title with a 457 series. For the women, Erin Kline was the most successful bowler of the entire tournament as she finished second with her partner, Matt Prieur in the Team High Series. She was the winner of the Women’s High Game Award with a 237 and she also rolled a high series of 411.
In MSTRC Bowling Tournament tradition however, no one bowler can win more than one award, so Teresa Beckner was awarded the Women’s High Series trophy with a 396 series to keep the streak alive of a Beckner winning at least one award in the Bowling Tournament at four consecutive years.
Arlee Jenkins picked up the Greg Yost Memorial Never Give Up Award for rolling a “new record low” game of a 40. The award was renamed the Greg Yost Memorial Never Give Up Award in 2009 in honor of the late Greg Yost, a benefactor during the 3rd annual tournament, who passed away in August of 2006.
Dave and Eldora Howe of Beacon Sales and Service in Charlotte, Michigan were the winners of the 2009 / 2010 Chris Throgmartin Dedication and Spirit Award for their continuous efforts and support of weekly short track racing in Michigan.
“Team Big Mouth” took home the special Traveling Team Award pitting them against Team Gone Fishin. Team Big Mouth consisted of; Ed Inloes, Dave Kennedy, Matt Prieur, Shaun Whitney, and Roger Williams. Members of Team Gone Fishin included; Brandon Curtis, Chuck Darling, Brian Howey, Ken Shook, and Kyle Trinklein. Team Big Mouth won the special Five-Man Team Award as they defeated Team Gone Fishin 1454-1260 to take home the Special Traveling “We Whipped Your A$$ Award for the fourth year in a row.
The MSTRC Bowling Tournament was started in 2004 and for the first three years, was held at Nic’s Restaurant & Bowl (Formerly Tri-Ami Lanes) in Ovid, Michigan. In 2007, a decision was made to move the tournament to a bigger facility and the newly renovated Capitol Bowl in downtown Owosso, Michigan and since then, Capitol Bowl has been the home of the MSTRC Bowling Tournament and will continue to be for the foreseeable future.
Past beneficiaries of the MSTRC Bowling Tournament include; Buck Harsen (2004), Michael Putnam (2005), the Crook Family (2005), the Bouwman Family (2006), the late Greg Yost (2006), Verwayne Greenhoe (2007), the Persails Family (2007), Chad Faur (2008), Matt Schindewolf (2008), the Newman Family (2009), Daniel “Doc” Dutton (2009), Jake Dickman (2010), and Alan Taft (2010).
As in years past, the beneficiaries were decided on by the membership of the Michigan Short Track Racing Club as Nominations were presented on the MSTRC message board and decided on by the senior members of the MSTRC Bowling Tournament Committee. That committee consists of; Brenda and Chuck Darling, Linda and Ed Inloes, Elaine and Matt Prieur, and Verwayne Greenhoe.
For more information about the 8th annual MSTRC Bowling Tournament, and to make a donation to the tournament with door prizes, or if you can't make it to the tournament and would like to donate anyways; Please e-mail the following committee members;
For MSTRC Founder, Chuck Darling, you can e-mail him at; mstrc_ceo88@yahoo.com For MSTRC President, Verwayne Greenhoe, you can e-mail him at: bmoc66@gmail.com For Ed Inloes, his e-mail address is; gb48507@yahoo.com and for Matt Prieur, you can reach him at: mprieur@mph-promotions.com
You can also log onto the Michigan Short Track Racing Club Website at: http://www.mstrc.com/ Then click on "Michigan Auto Racing Discussion" and scroll down for the Thread titled "Official 8th annual MSTRC Bowling Tournament Information"
I-96 Speedway News
2011 Schedule, Rulebook, Registration Forms, and New and Improved Website are now all available for I-96 Speedway
Lake Odessa, Michigan (Monday, January 31st, 2011): The 2011 schedule for I-96 Speedway is now complete! In addition, a new and improved track website is also finished while both the 2011 Registration Forms and Rulebook are also available to the general public.
The 2011 racing season officially starts off in Lake Odessa, Michigan with Two Pre-Season Test and Tunes with the first one set for Saturday April 9th from 11:00a.m. until “Dark” and is open to all classes that will be visiting in 2011 as everyone will get ample opportunity at getting dialed in for the upcoming season on the fast 3/8s (0.375) mile semi-banked dirt oval.
The second and final Test and Tune is on Saturday, April 16th from 11:00a.m.-5:00p.m., as cars will practice on the 3/8s mile while the American Motorcycle Association (AMA) District 14 Flat Track Motorcycles will start their 2011 racing season with practice on the outer ½ (0.500) mile semi-banked dirt oval. Then it’s Opening Night 2011 for the two-wheeled machines starting at 6:00p.m.
After taking the Easter holiday weekend off, Opening Night 2011, the 6th annual Ice Breaker is set for Saturday April 30th headlined by the high-powered UMP Late Models in the first race of the season counting towards the chase for the 2011 Track Championship.
In addition, the UMP Modifieds will open their 2011 season in a Big Way! Not only is it their Season Opener, it’s also the Inaugural Event for the brand new Michigan Dirt Cup Modifieds Series as the open wheeled machines will be going for a hefty $1,500 to Win as the night will also count towards UMP Track, State, and National Points as well as the chase for the inaugural Michigan Dirt Cup Modifieds Series Title!
The UMP Street Stocks are also on the card while the UMP Sport Compacts (formerly Four-Cylinders / Road Beaters) will wrap up the festive evening! All Four Weekly Divisions will be taking on the fast 3/8s during Weekly competition and in turn, beginning each respective chase for their 2011 Track Championships.
On Saturday nights during the 2011 racing season, (unless otherwise noted for traveling series who will Qualify) the Pit Gates open at 3:00p.m. Grandstand Gates open at 4:00p.m., with Practice (Hot Laps) starting at 5:00p.m. Then after the Pre-Race Ceremonies / Invocation / National Anthem(s), Racing begins promptly at 7:00p.m.
Amongst the highlights of the 2011 racing season includes the World of Outlaws Sprints Series coming to Lake Odessa, Michigan on Saturday, May 21st in their “Only” appearance of the season in Michigan! In addition, the UMP Summer Nationals heck Tour invades on a special Sunday Afternoon show on June 26th for their one and only event in Michigan in 2011!
The AMA District 14 Flat Track Motorcycles have a home at I-96 Speedway with six dates on the schedule beginning on Saturday, April 16th. In addition, the AMA Grand Nationals Tour will also invade on a date “to be announced” Throw in such great events like Motocross, Mud Bogs, Off-Road Racing, a Destruction Night featuring School Bus Races on July 2nd, and so much more, and the 2011 racing season is one of the most highly anticipated in the tracks’ history!
Added to the already action packed racing schedule includes several non-racing related events with concerts and festivals highlighted by Bike “N” Roll Fest on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, June 9-10-11th. The Carnival of Chaos invades on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, August 19-20-21st. If that wasn’t enough, several other concerts “to be announced” will also be added to the 2011 schedule throughout the season.
While preparations for the 2011 racing season are kicking into high gear, there’s still one event remaining concerning 2010 as the I-96 Speedway 2010 Awards Banquet will be held on Saturday, February 19th, 2011 at the Steele Street Hall (Formerly the Knights of Columbus Hall) located on 115 South Steele Street in Ionia, Michigan. Tickets are Still on Sale for Just $20.00 in Advance and $25.00 the day of the Awards Banquet.
The Doors at the Steele Street Hall will open at 5:00p.m., with dinner starting at 6:00p.m. Then the 2010 Racing Season comes to a close with the Awards Ceremony starting promptly at 7:30p.m. Afterwards, their will be plenty of Bench Racing, Celebrating, and more lasting into the evening.
To Order your Awards Banquet Tickets, please send your R.S.V.P., with Payment to:
I-96 Speedway Awards Banquet
3823 West Portland Road
Lake Odessa Michigan, 48849.
Or E-Mail Co-Owner / Promoter, Mike Mouch at: mike_mouch@yahoo.com
The complete 2011 schedule as well as the rulebook and registration forms are all now available! For more information about the 2010 awards banquet and to order Tickets, and for more information regarding the 2011 racing season, please call: 1 (616) 642-0555 or visit the new and improved website at: http://www.i96speedway.com
_________________
I-96 Speedway
Co-Director of Media / Public Relations - Public Address (P.A.) Announcer
Lake Odessa, Michigan (Monday, January 31st, 2011): The 2011 schedule for I-96 Speedway is now complete! In addition, a new and improved track website is also finished while both the 2011 Registration Forms and Rulebook are also available to the general public.
The 2011 racing season officially starts off in Lake Odessa, Michigan with Two Pre-Season Test and Tunes with the first one set for Saturday April 9th from 11:00a.m. until “Dark” and is open to all classes that will be visiting in 2011 as everyone will get ample opportunity at getting dialed in for the upcoming season on the fast 3/8s (0.375) mile semi-banked dirt oval.
The second and final Test and Tune is on Saturday, April 16th from 11:00a.m.-5:00p.m., as cars will practice on the 3/8s mile while the American Motorcycle Association (AMA) District 14 Flat Track Motorcycles will start their 2011 racing season with practice on the outer ½ (0.500) mile semi-banked dirt oval. Then it’s Opening Night 2011 for the two-wheeled machines starting at 6:00p.m.
After taking the Easter holiday weekend off, Opening Night 2011, the 6th annual Ice Breaker is set for Saturday April 30th headlined by the high-powered UMP Late Models in the first race of the season counting towards the chase for the 2011 Track Championship.
In addition, the UMP Modifieds will open their 2011 season in a Big Way! Not only is it their Season Opener, it’s also the Inaugural Event for the brand new Michigan Dirt Cup Modifieds Series as the open wheeled machines will be going for a hefty $1,500 to Win as the night will also count towards UMP Track, State, and National Points as well as the chase for the inaugural Michigan Dirt Cup Modifieds Series Title!
The UMP Street Stocks are also on the card while the UMP Sport Compacts (formerly Four-Cylinders / Road Beaters) will wrap up the festive evening! All Four Weekly Divisions will be taking on the fast 3/8s during Weekly competition and in turn, beginning each respective chase for their 2011 Track Championships.
On Saturday nights during the 2011 racing season, (unless otherwise noted for traveling series who will Qualify) the Pit Gates open at 3:00p.m. Grandstand Gates open at 4:00p.m., with Practice (Hot Laps) starting at 5:00p.m. Then after the Pre-Race Ceremonies / Invocation / National Anthem(s), Racing begins promptly at 7:00p.m.
Amongst the highlights of the 2011 racing season includes the World of Outlaws Sprints Series coming to Lake Odessa, Michigan on Saturday, May 21st in their “Only” appearance of the season in Michigan! In addition, the UMP Summer Nationals heck Tour invades on a special Sunday Afternoon show on June 26th for their one and only event in Michigan in 2011!
The AMA District 14 Flat Track Motorcycles have a home at I-96 Speedway with six dates on the schedule beginning on Saturday, April 16th. In addition, the AMA Grand Nationals Tour will also invade on a date “to be announced” Throw in such great events like Motocross, Mud Bogs, Off-Road Racing, a Destruction Night featuring School Bus Races on July 2nd, and so much more, and the 2011 racing season is one of the most highly anticipated in the tracks’ history!
Added to the already action packed racing schedule includes several non-racing related events with concerts and festivals highlighted by Bike “N” Roll Fest on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, June 9-10-11th. The Carnival of Chaos invades on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, August 19-20-21st. If that wasn’t enough, several other concerts “to be announced” will also be added to the 2011 schedule throughout the season.
While preparations for the 2011 racing season are kicking into high gear, there’s still one event remaining concerning 2010 as the I-96 Speedway 2010 Awards Banquet will be held on Saturday, February 19th, 2011 at the Steele Street Hall (Formerly the Knights of Columbus Hall) located on 115 South Steele Street in Ionia, Michigan. Tickets are Still on Sale for Just $20.00 in Advance and $25.00 the day of the Awards Banquet.
The Doors at the Steele Street Hall will open at 5:00p.m., with dinner starting at 6:00p.m. Then the 2010 Racing Season comes to a close with the Awards Ceremony starting promptly at 7:30p.m. Afterwards, their will be plenty of Bench Racing, Celebrating, and more lasting into the evening.
To Order your Awards Banquet Tickets, please send your R.S.V.P., with Payment to:
I-96 Speedway Awards Banquet
3823 West Portland Road
Lake Odessa Michigan, 48849.
Or E-Mail Co-Owner / Promoter, Mike Mouch at: mike_mouch@yahoo.com
The complete 2011 schedule as well as the rulebook and registration forms are all now available! For more information about the 2010 awards banquet and to order Tickets, and for more information regarding the 2011 racing season, please call: 1 (616) 642-0555 or visit the new and improved website at: http://www.i96speedway.com
_________________
I-96 Speedway
Co-Director of Media / Public Relations - Public Address (P.A.) Announcer
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Campbell and Jones: Lanier Speedway Speedfest Report
Michigan drivers Brian Campbell and Eric Jones took their talents to Lanier Speedway this past weekend to start their 2011 race seasons. Campbell pulled double duty racing in both the Pro Late Model division and the CRA Super Late Model Division. Jones and Ben VanDoorn the crew chief from (Johnny VanDoorns) KAOS Race team concentrated their efforts in the Pro Late Model Division.
Qualifying Saturday earned Campbell a 16th place starting spot in his Perfect Circle Racing Chassis Pro Late Model for the 150 lap event Sunday. Campbell was clocked as the fastest in practice Saturday in his CRA Super Late Model but fell off in qualifying earning him the tenth starting position for their 200 lap event. The 15 year old Jones Qualified an impressive eighth for Sunday's event.
The Pro Late Model Division saw impressive runs by both Campbell and Jones. Campbell patiently worked his way from 16th all the way to fourth with just ten laps to go. Campbell was challenging for the third spot with six laps to go when the caution flag waved. A double file restart put Campbell in the out side groove where he battled to keep him self in the top ten. Ultimately Campbell finished 8th. Jones efforts continues to gain valuable seat time. Not too many drivers let lone one that is 15 can exhibit the patience and focus he continues to show. Jones hung out in the top fifteen all day staying out of trouble. When the checkered was wave he captured a tenth place finish.
Campbell CRA event went our early. On lap 67 Campbell was caught up in an accident that ended his day. He finished 31st in the running order.
Both events were won by Bill Elliot's son Chase who is the hottest shoe in racing outside of NASCAR. Elliot won the Pro Model Event crossing the line a fender ahead of Duane Buggey. Elliot lead the most laps in the event. In the Super Late Model CRA event Elliot again led the most laps and the most important one.
If you have not had he chance to see Chase Elliot race in person, you are missing out. It is my opinion that he is the next, Kyle Busch of NASCAR without the rough edges. It is too bad we will have to wait three more years to see his talents in NASCAR. But then again we don't have to pay NASCAR ticket prices to watch him now.
Note: Muskegon's Mike Garvey withdrew his CRA Super Late Model entry after practice Friday due to engine problems. Garvey ranked in the top 10 during practice He was hired to drive a third entry from the Greg Simpson Racing.
Qualifying Saturday earned Campbell a 16th place starting spot in his Perfect Circle Racing Chassis Pro Late Model for the 150 lap event Sunday. Campbell was clocked as the fastest in practice Saturday in his CRA Super Late Model but fell off in qualifying earning him the tenth starting position for their 200 lap event. The 15 year old Jones Qualified an impressive eighth for Sunday's event.
The Pro Late Model Division saw impressive runs by both Campbell and Jones. Campbell patiently worked his way from 16th all the way to fourth with just ten laps to go. Campbell was challenging for the third spot with six laps to go when the caution flag waved. A double file restart put Campbell in the out side groove where he battled to keep him self in the top ten. Ultimately Campbell finished 8th. Jones efforts continues to gain valuable seat time. Not too many drivers let lone one that is 15 can exhibit the patience and focus he continues to show. Jones hung out in the top fifteen all day staying out of trouble. When the checkered was wave he captured a tenth place finish.
Campbell CRA event went our early. On lap 67 Campbell was caught up in an accident that ended his day. He finished 31st in the running order.
Both events were won by Bill Elliot's son Chase who is the hottest shoe in racing outside of NASCAR. Elliot won the Pro Model Event crossing the line a fender ahead of Duane Buggey. Elliot lead the most laps in the event. In the Super Late Model CRA event Elliot again led the most laps and the most important one.
If you have not had he chance to see Chase Elliot race in person, you are missing out. It is my opinion that he is the next, Kyle Busch of NASCAR without the rough edges. It is too bad we will have to wait three more years to see his talents in NASCAR. But then again we don't have to pay NASCAR ticket prices to watch him now.
Note: Muskegon's Mike Garvey withdrew his CRA Super Late Model entry after practice Friday due to engine problems. Garvey ranked in the top 10 during practice He was hired to drive a third entry from the Greg Simpson Racing.
Chase Elliott to Race at Berlin Twice in 2011 JEGS/CRA All-Star Tour Added to Schedule
Chase Elliott to Race at Berlin Twice in 2011 JEGS/CRA All-Star Tour Added to Schedule
by Michael Blackmer
MARNE, Mich. — Berlin Raceway is pleased to announce that Chase Elliott will return to the famed half-mile for two race dates in 2011.
Elliott, son of NASCAR legend Bill Elliott, made his debut at Berlin Raceway last June at Rowdy’s Revenge 251. For it being his first time at the track, he impressed many by leading over 100 laps and remaining a strong contender for the win. Elliott will have the chance to claim victory at Berlin Raceway on June 21 for the third-annual Rowdy 251.
Elliott will then make the trip back to Marne to race on September 10. The JEGS/CRA All-Star Tour will make a stop at Berlin for a 100-lap race. It is a new traveling series that is specifically for crate late models and Berlin is one race out of an eleven-race schedule.
“It’s great that Chase is coming back and supporting Berlin, not once, but twice this season. He is an up-and-coming star and he made a lot of fans when he raced here last year,” said Owner and Promoter, Mike Blackmer.
The Berlin Raceway is set to open its 61st season on April 23rd with a full show including Outlaw Late Models, Super Stocks, Pro Stocks and 4-Cylinders. Two additional racing series will also be a part of Berlin Raceway’s divisions in 2011; the Premier Boyne Machine Super Lates and the Vintage Racing Organization of America will join the line-up on May 7.
A complete list of events and prices can be found at www.berlinraceway.com or by calling the Berlin Raceway office at 616-662-2051.
by Michael Blackmer
MARNE, Mich. — Berlin Raceway is pleased to announce that Chase Elliott will return to the famed half-mile for two race dates in 2011.
Elliott, son of NASCAR legend Bill Elliott, made his debut at Berlin Raceway last June at Rowdy’s Revenge 251. For it being his first time at the track, he impressed many by leading over 100 laps and remaining a strong contender for the win. Elliott will have the chance to claim victory at Berlin Raceway on June 21 for the third-annual Rowdy 251.
Elliott will then make the trip back to Marne to race on September 10. The JEGS/CRA All-Star Tour will make a stop at Berlin for a 100-lap race. It is a new traveling series that is specifically for crate late models and Berlin is one race out of an eleven-race schedule.
“It’s great that Chase is coming back and supporting Berlin, not once, but twice this season. He is an up-and-coming star and he made a lot of fans when he raced here last year,” said Owner and Promoter, Mike Blackmer.
The Berlin Raceway is set to open its 61st season on April 23rd with a full show including Outlaw Late Models, Super Stocks, Pro Stocks and 4-Cylinders. Two additional racing series will also be a part of Berlin Raceway’s divisions in 2011; the Premier Boyne Machine Super Lates and the Vintage Racing Organization of America will join the line-up on May 7.
A complete list of events and prices can be found at www.berlinraceway.com or by calling the Berlin Raceway office at 616-662-2051.
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