The Main Event Racing
Series schedule for 2013 is almost complete. We have 13 races
scheduled and we would like to be between 12-15 events this year.
With that being said, we also understand with that many races it is
very tough on our car owners to do that many events. In our
series the car owners always come first. Starting in 2013, we
will have a point system tailored to the car owner. We are
going to allow you to drop 2-3 races depending on how many races are
on the schedule. Ex.. if we have 14 races we will take your best 12
as points. If we would have over 14 we would let you drop your 3
least point events. This way if you can not attend a show you
can still be in the point chase. Also, even with more races,
we kept the contract entry the same at 400.00. Remember that
includes your entry fees for the year. We are in the process
of getting a title sponsor and we should have news coming out soon.
As always if you have any questions contact Kevin or Chris.
Ganus Rebounds From Tail For Dominant ME
XXV Victory
By Todd Ridgeway
Constantine Michigan
driver Jeff Ganus came to Sandusky (OH) Speedway last Sunday
afternoon and took the late race command and never looked back. A
race that saw a whole slew of yellow flags, as Ganus was the second
yellow of the day when his car rolled to a stop on the backstretch.
Once refired and moved to the tail Ganus put on a clinic as he
mastered his way to the front picking off one competitor at a time.
And, by lap 56 of the 100, he was on point and sailing away.
NASCAR Champion driver Johnny Benson Jr. and Marcus
Malcuit would bring the field of 24 well prepared Super Late Models
down for the start of the 100 lap marathon. However, two consecutive
yellow flags would require two complete restarts. The second of
those yellows was for Fast Qualifier Ganus as his car rolled to a
stop after he accidentally hit the engine kill switch. Cars would
jockey for position as the yellow flag would make frequent
appearances. Malcuit would take the early pace, but Harold Fair Jr.
would move up and take the point as JR Roahrig followed Fair through
to get the second position these two would race hard leading the way
until Roahrig decided he wanted on point and over took Fair to get
there. While the race was at the front Ganus was making head way
coming from the back. By the halfway point Roahrig was followed by
Fair Jr, Ganus, Jimmy Carter, and Jack Varney Jr. Ganus would get
his opportunity just past the halfway mark when the No. 72 car of
Frank Kimmel II would come to a stop on the backstretch. The yellow
gave the track position back to Ganus in which he was seeking. On
the lap 56 restart Ganus wasted little time and effort as he
immediately went to the top of the track and sailing through turns
one and two he went past both the front runners and began to set the
race pace. That pace amounted to no more than “catch me if you can,”
and they could not. Ganus rolled to victory followed by Varney Jr.,
Steve Needles, Rich Rohrer, and Todd Rosebrugh rounded out the top
five positions.
“We had a great car all weekend,” stated Ganus. “We
came here in September and tested, we had a pretty good car then.
So, we came back this weekend and made some changes we thought we
needed. The car was just so good, I mean at the end I was just
riding around. The car just never fell off the whole race, it is the
best car I have had all year. The main ignition switch is positioned
right behind the driver. I just accidently bumped it and killed the
motor. It’s the second time I have bumped it, it is going to have to
get moved that is for sure. I just had an awesome car all weekend,”
finished the happy race winner.
33 cars where in the Sandusky Speedway pits fighting
for the 24 100 lap starting positions. Ganus would not only set fast
time but a new Sandusky track record as well with a lap of 16.001.
Kimmel II won the B Main to advance into the starting field.
Edgerton Ohio and “Ohio Posse” member Bud Perry locked up the 2012
MERS Championship for the second year in a row. Ron Sauders would
get his first ever Sandusky Modifieds checkers after besting the 40
lap Modified field.
“This is a tough series,” stated Perry. “I had one
win at Columbus this year and should have won at Shady Bowl but
that’s the way it goes. I usually run well here, but today man was
it tough. Man, if you could have a miserable day, we had it today.
Hats off to the crew for making the call to bring me in and work on
the car a little bit. I hope to come back next year and try to win
three in a row. You just never know about these guys (Red Skin
Motorsports) and what they want to do. But, if they want to come
back and try it again, I will do it,” finished the now two time MERS
Champion.
Main Event XXV Complete At Sandusky
Speedway
By Daniel Smith
It was a cold Saturday but the racing in the 1/2 mile
speedplant was hot as 31 of the best Outlaw Super Late Models in the
country would take to the track for their qualifying. The track
record fell 5 times with the #16 of Jeff Ganus on top of the charts
with a blistering lap of 16.001! The other four drivers that also
broke the record were #14 of Steve Needles 16.099, #16 J.R. Roahrig
16.197, #28 Jimmy Carter 16.340, and the #0 of Donnie Hill with a
16.383. Now that the qualifying was done for all three classes there
would be 2 heat races in the Modified class, 18 would qualify and to
in the MSA Super modified class where 17 qualified.
First heat in the modified class would see the #16 of
Steven Klinect take the checkers and the second would see the #2 of
Joseph Morrisette win his heat. MSA Modifieds were out next for
their heats The #7 of Charlie Schultz would take the first while The
#72 of Johnny Benson would take the 2nd heat. Both Charlie and
Johnny will do double duty in both the MSA Modifieds and Main Event
Outlaw Late Models! The Main Event Late Models are out next for
thier 3 Heat races. The top 2 from each heat will transfer to the
Main Event IIV First heat saw the #116 of Jack Varney take the win
over #10 Bud Perry, Heat 2 was a little more interesting as Leader
Tim Ice in the #65 go off turn 3 and bring out the yellow and go to
the rear and with 3 laps to go he will have to go to the Last Chance
race on Sunday. Tough break for the veteran Driver! The #1 of Justin
Schroder would take the win over the #21 Of Drew Charlson. Heat 3 #7
Rich Rohrer and the #4 of Scott Baker would transfer to the Main
Event on Sunday..
With warmer temps and some exceptional racing and a huge
crowd in the stands it was time for the Main Event XXV!!! First up
was the Last chance race for the Late Models, 12 cars would start
and only 6 will advance to the Feature Race. The six that advanced
from the Last chance were #72 Frank Kimmel II, #7 Charlie Schultz,
#2 Alex Rosenberry, #63 Rick Sibila, And the #11 of Randy Day. Point
provisionals that would advance are #81 Scott Drake, #50 Jeremy
Dennis, #26 John Flynn, and the #1 of Craig Everage.
Next out was the 40 lap feature for the Modifieds.
Steven Klinect and Kevin Jaycox brought the field to the green with
Klinect jumping out to the lead, Klinect would get a huge lead in
front of Jaycox and then the driveshaft let go on him and he was
done for the day. At the restart it would be Robbie Sauders who is
the point man and now that he was in front there was no catching
him. Sauders #06 car would take the win over the #0 of Phillips, #31
of Meyer, #13 of Purvis, And the #17 of Sharp.
MSA Super Modifieds are up next for their feature race.
Lap 1 would see McKnight and Henes come to the green and before the
first lap was complete points leader #19 Trent Stevens would go off
turn 2 and hit the tire wall head-on and destroy the front end, but
was ok and still won the championship as all he had to do was start
the race. At the restart McKnight and Henes would run side by side
for the first lap, and then on the backstretch Henes would take the
lead on the outside groove. As the laps were winding down Johnny
Benson Jr who started 10th and Schullick who started 12th were on
the move, meanwhile Mike Lichte would get around Henes to take the
lead. With 12 laps to go thwe yellow would come out for Henes
spinning off turn 3 and 4. At the green Litbe would maintain the
lead as Benson was catching him. But Benson ran out of time and
Lichte (also the IMSA Champion for 2012) would take the checkers
over Benson, Schullick, Marlowe, and McKnight.
Up next is the Main Event # IIV. 24 of the best Outlaw
Late Models will take the green. Johnny Benson Jr and Marcus Malcuit
brought the field to the green. Lap 1 yellow comes out for 15 yr old
and rookie #2 Alex Rosenberry spins in turn 4. On a complete restart
Marcus Malcuit would lead the field into turn . On lap 7 New track
record holder Jeff Ganus would slow down and come to a rest on the
backstretch as his window net come undone. Ganus will have to
restart at the rear for bring out the caution. Field goes green
again until lap 11 when Rosenberry would get into the side of
Charlie Schultz and bring out the yellow. Malcuit, Harold Fair Jr,
and Benson would be your top 3 at the restart. Malcuit would lead
over Fair and then another yellow on lap 28 as Drake, Flynn and
Rosenberry get together in turn 3. Rosenberry with heavy front end
damage would go to the pits. We go green again then lap 29 Steve
Needles and Donnie hill come together on the front stretch and
Needles spins in turn 1 to bring out another caution. We go green
again and on lap 30 Jack Varney and Jeremy Dennis in a synchronized
spin in turn 1 to bring yet another yellow. Top 5 at this point are
Roahrig, Fair, Malcuit, Benson, Hill. As the green fell Roahrig and
Fair would start to leave the field. Lap 38 saw another yellow as
Hill blew a tire. At this point Ganus is up to 7th after starting at
the rear on lap 7. We would go green for another 9 laps when Dennis
spins. On the restart Roahrig and fair would run 1 and 2 but Roahrig
was starting to put distance between he and Fair. Lap 50 another
yellow for Malcuit and Needles. Went green again but a few laps
later would see Harold Fair Jr and Jimmy Carter crash in turn 1 and
2 and both would be done for the day. At the restart It was Ganus
who had a great run through 2 and on the outside groove made a bold
move to go from 3rd to First going into turn 3. With 38 laps to go
Ganus would start to leave the field. With 8 laps to go Roahrig
would lose Power and dropout. That would leave 8 cars out of 24 on
the track at that point. #16 of Jeff Ganus would never look back and
go on to win the Main Event IIV over #116 Jack Varney, #14 Steve
Needles, #7 Rich Rohrer, #1 Todd Rosebrugh, #50 Jeremy Dennis, And
Randy Day would finish in the 8th spot.
Main Event Racing Series Sunoco
Race Fuels $200 Top Qualifier - Jeff Ganus 16.001
Lap Leaders - Marcus Malcuit 1-17, Harold Fair, Jr.
18-28, J.R. Roahrig 29-56, Jeff Ganus 57-100
Brakeman Award - Scott Drake
Longacre Certificate - Bud Perry
Joe's Racing Product Award - Donnie Hill
Sunoco Race Fuels $200 1/2 Way Leader - J.R. Roahrig
Heat Winners - Jack Varney, Jr., Justin Schroeder,
Rich Rohrer
Last Chance Winner - Frank Kimmel, II
Main Event XXV - Jeff Ganus, Jack Varney, Jr., Steve
Needles, Rich Rohrer, Todd Rosebrugh, Bud Perry, Jeremy Dennis,
Randy Day, J.R. Roahrig, Harold Fair, Jr., Jimmy Carter, Frank
Kimmel, II, Marcus Malcuit, Johnny Benson, Justin Schroeder, Donnie
Hill, Scott Drake, Drew Charlson, John Flynn, Alex Rosenberry, Scott
Baker, Craig Everage, Rick Sibila, Charlie Schultz
Main Event XXV Updates
6:16 PM Sunday - Congrats to Jeff Ganus on his
Main Event XXV victory. Jack Varney, Jr., Steve Needles, Rich
Rohrer, and Todd Rosebrugh were top five finishers. Complete
rundown on Main Event facebook page.
12:36 PM Sunday - Main Event cars are on track
for their final hotlap session of the day. Racetime is set for
approximately 1:30. It will start with the Main Event last
chance race. The feature lineup is the Modified 40, MSA
Supermodified 40, and the Main Event XXV 100 presented by Pat
O'Brien Chevrolet. Join our Main Event Racing Series Facebook
group for further updates this afternoon.
11:30 AM - Main Event Super Late Model practice
got the day started at 11:00 AM. Beautiful weather conditions
and a great race are forecasted.
12:32 AM - Transfers from Saturday night's heats
were Jack Varney, Jr. and Bud Perry in the first heat, Justin
Schroeder and Drew Charlson in heat #2, and Rich Rohrer and Scott
Baker in the third heat. That brings Sunday's starting field
to 14. 6 drivers will come from the last chance, while 4 will
be point provisionals to finish up the 24 positions.
Pits open at 10 Sunday, while practice and
grandstand opening are at 11. Racing action is set to begin at
1:30. Come out and enjoy the nice weather and see some great
racing action for Main Event XXV.
8:13 - Practice and qualifying are complete.
The time trial was exciting to the finish. Jeff Ganus, from
Constantine, MI, set the fast time and track record with only one
car left to qualify. That car was Steve Needles, a two-time ME
winner at Columbus. Needles just missed and ended up second.
The top eight are locked into the Main Event, while the rest will
run heats later tonight. The top two will come out of each
heat race and transfer to the feature. Complete rundown listed
below.
3:20 - Main Event Saturday is underway at
Sandusky Speedway. Two rounds of practice have been completed.
33 cars are pitside for tomorrow's 100. Practice speed updates
have been posted on the Main Event Racing Series facebook page.
The Blount #16 teammates of J.R. Roahrig and Jeff Ganus have been
the fastest in each session. Final practice is coming up.
Former NASCAR Truck Series Champion To
Compete In Sandusky Main Event By Adam Mackey
Entries continue to
come in for the Super Late Model portion of Main Event XXV at
Sandusky OH Speedway. The event, originally postponed in September
due to inclement weather, is now on tap this coming weekend, October
20-21. While the Main Event Racing Series Super Late Models will be
running a 100 lap feature for $6,000 to win, the MSA Supermodifieds,
and Open Wheel Modifieds will also be in action.
Leading the list of
newly added entries for the Super Late Model Main Event, is former
NASCAR Sprint Cup driver and 2008 NASCAR Truck Series Champion,
Johnny Benson, Jr. Benson, who was a former winner on the Cup
circuit, has run Sandusky in the past in a Supermodified, but will
be running in his full bodied Late Model this weekend.
2002 series champion,
Tim Felver, has also filed an entry for this weekend's event.
Second on the list of all time winners in Main Event history, Felver
will be piloting a car as a teammate to Jack Varney, Jr.. Other new
additions that will be making the trip to Sandusky are Michigan
drivers Dennis Strickland, Eric Lee, Chris Benson, Dave Stehouwer,
and John Long. Medina, Ohio drivers Nick Chmara and Tyler
Strickland are also now committed to the event.
Open wheel fans are
excited about a new addition to the Supermodified line-up to the
weekend. 2012 ISMA champion, Mike Lichty, will join the MSA
regulars as the battle for the final time this season. Point leader
Trent Stephens will look to clinch the championship, while Dave
Shullick, Jr., Charlie Schultz, Bobby Dawson, and Matt Marlowe come
into the event with top five point runs. They, along with many
others, will compete in a 40-lap, $1,7000 to win main.
Like the other two
classes, the Modified field was strong on the original weekend.
However, with most tracks done for the season, an even better field
is expected this weekend. Stars from all over the midwest should
make this unsanctioned Modified show one to behold.
The special event for
the touring series has called Columbus Motor Speedway home for 21 of
the last 22 years, with only the 2003 edition held elsewhere, at
Mansfield. This year's event will be a homecoming of sorts, as the
event started at Sandusky during the 1988 season. Michigan driver
Dennis Berry claimed the trophy during the inaugural event, while
Canadian driving ace Junior Hanley claimed the top prize in 1989. It
was in 1990 that the series moved the event to Columbus.
While many will miss the Columbus speedplant, the
event could see a new winner in victory lane at Sandusky. It took 22
years before the season ending Main Event race saw a repeat winner.
While a number of drivers were close to doing it, Terry Senneker,
Jr. became the first repeat winner in 2009 when he claimed his
second trophy. His first came in 2007. From 2007-2011, the events
were all won by the Terry Gentry funded teams of Senneker and Steve
Needles. Needles claimed two, while Senneker has won three of the
last five.
The Main Event 100 will
pay $6,000 to the winner and $1,000 to start. The MSA Supermodified
40 lap race will pay $1,700 to win and $400 to start. $1,200 is on
the line to win the Modified 40 lapper, while starters will receive
$150. Sunoco Race Fuels has put up additional bonuses of $200 for
fast time and $200 to lead halfway in the Super Late Model portion
of the event.
The weekend gets
underway on Friday, October 19 with an open practice day for all
divisions. Pits will open at noon, while practice will run from
1:00-Dark. On Saturday, pits open at 9:00, while practice will run
from 11:00-2:30 and qualifying will take place at 3:00. Racing
Saturday night will take the green at 6:30. On Sunday, practice will
be from 11:00-12:30 with racing scheduled to begin at 1:30.
Saturday's program includes practice and qualifying for all classes,
plus Main Event, MSA, and Modified heats.
Sunday's events will
include last chance races and features for the Super Late Models,
Supermodifieds, and Modifieds.
Admission prices for
adults are $18 for Saturday and $25 for Sunday, while children at $7
each day. Pit admission is $40 per day or $60 for a 2-day pass. Pit
admission for Friday's practice is $10 per person.
Complete info and rules
are available at maineventracingseries.com.
Outlaw Super Late Main Event XXV At
Sandusky October 19-21 By Adam Mackey
The
season ending specials across the country are starting to shift into
high gear and one that many mark on their calendars has a change of
venue in 2012. The Main Event Racing Series, holding its 25th
annual season ending Main Event for Outlaw Super Late Models, is
scheduled to run a 100-lap, $6,000 to win race Sunday,
October 21st at Sandusky (OH) Speedway.
The special event for the touring series has called
Columbus Motor Speedway home for 21 of the last 22 years, with only
the 2003 edition held elsewhere, at Mansfield. This year's event
will be a homecoming of sorts, as the event started at Sandusky
during the 1988 season. Michigan driver Dennis Berry claimed the
trophy during the inaugural event, while Canadian driving ace Junior
Hanley claimed the top prize in 1989. It was in 1990 that the
series moved the event to Columbus.
While many will miss the Columbus speedplant, the
event could see a new winner in victory lane at Sandusky. It took
22 years before the season ending Main Event race saw a repeat
winner. While a number of drivers were close to doing it, Terry
Senneker, Jr. became the first repeat winner in 2009 when he claimed
his second trophy. His first came in 2007. From 2007-2011, the
events were all won by the Terry Gentry funded teams of Senneker and
Steve Needles. Needles claimed two, while Senneker has won three of
the last five.
This year's three day show will see two premier
divisions of racing in the midwest. In addition to the Outlaw Super
Late Models of the Main Event Racing Series, the MSA Supermodifieds
will be in action. Competing at a number of tracks throughout Ohio
and surrounding states, the winged cars will turn wicked fast times
around the Sandusky 1/2-mile and fill an additional need for speed
during the weekend. Modifieds are also on the
card for a can't miss show.
The Main Event 100 will pay $6,000 to the winner and
$1,000 to start. The MSA Supermodified 40 lap race will pay $1,700
to win and $400 to start. $1,200 is on the line to win the Modified
40 lapper, while starters will receive $150. Sunoco Race Fuels has
put up additional bonuses of $200 for fast time and $200 to lead
halfway in the Super Late Model portion of the event.
The weekend gets underway on Friday,
October 19
with an open practice day for all divisions. Pits will open at
noon, while practice will run from 1:00-8:00. On Saturday, pits
open at 9:00, while practice will run from 11:00-2:30 and qualifying
will take place at 3:00. Racing Saturday night will take the green
at 6:30. On Sunday, practice will be from 11:00-12:30 with racing
scheduled to begin at 1:30.
Saturday's program includes practice and qualifying
for all classes, plus Main Event, MSA, and Modified heats.
Sunday's events will include last chance races and
features for the Super Late Models, Supermodifieds, and Modifieds.
Admission prices for adults are $18 for Saturday and
$25 for Sunday, while children at $7 each day. Pit admission is $40
per day or $60 for a 2-day pass. Pit admission for Friday's
practice is $10 per person.
Complete info and rules are available at
maineventracingseries.com.
Overall ME XXV Practice Times From September Rain Out
Car #
Driver
Hometown
Sponsor
1
4
Scott Baker
Monroe Falls, OH
Custom Color & Collision/Baker Racecars/FLF/Powerline Racing
Engines
16.361
2
28
Jimmy Carter
Strongsville, OH
C&C Wholesale/Medina Mountain Motors/FLF Racecars
16.402
3
72
Frank Kimmel, II
Clarksville, IN
Mars Trucking/Custom Color & Collision/Ron Davis Racing
Radiators/Shaker Valley Foods
16.449
4
0
Donnie Hill
Columbus, OH
Jeg's/Architect Glass
16.452
5
116
Jack Varney, Jr.
Mt. Morris, MI
Great Lakes Helicopter/Port City Racecars/RJS Equipment/Kreiger
Racing Engines
16.456
6
14
Steve Needles
Berrien Springs, MI
TA Gentry Supply/Crown Motors/Weller Auto Parts/Pinnacle
Investments Andy Wesner
Shaker's Auto Recycling/Holub Recyclers/American
Thunder/Ambrose Fabrication
16.974
20
65
Tim Ice
Seville, OH
Ice Oil Company/Frank May Garage/Northeast Lubricants
16.989
21
63
Rick Sibila
Massillon, OH
Francis Engineering/McIntosh Oil
17.047
22
12
Bubba Smith
Canton, OH
Smith's Auto Sales/Freedom Auto Finance
17.11
23
81
Scott Drake
Xenia, OH
Kalvinator Engines/S&S Racing & Fabrication
17.134
24
O1
Bob Gainer
Stow, OH
Distillata Water Company/Dillon Racecars/Wounded Warriors
17.346
25
11
Randy Day
Suttons Bay, MI
Midwest Powerline Inc/True Force Outlaw Noses/99 Signs
17.56
26
75
Marcus Malcuit
Strasburg, OH
McIntosh Oil Company/VP Race Fuels
Mahaffey Main Man At Shady Bowl By Earl Isaacs
Saturday night marked the return of the Main Event Racing Series to
Shady Bowl Speedway. The event was rescheduled after an August 4th
rain out. Columbus driver Donnie “Zero” Hill paced the field during
time trials with a 12.604 lap in his Architect Glass sponsored
racer.
Local fan favorite Don Mahaffey Jr. started from the
pole in the Hot Rodz Auto Sales 75. Mahaffey turned in his officials
headset for a helmet on this night as he burst out front at the drop
of the green flag on a track owned by his family. The race was
slowed on lap two when Craig Everage spun, eliminating him from the
nights action. Hill's night looked to have ended early, when smoke
billowed from his #0 on lap 32. Hill was able to continue however as
the problem was power steering pump related, not engine. Mahaffey,
in his Hanger 18 backed stocker was able to enjoy the home cookin as
he led lap after lap with Drew Charlson and Scott Drake unable to
close up ground on the fleeing Mahaffey. Mahaffey went on to take
the checker leading all 75 laps and taking home $2000.00 for his
nights effort. Charlson was second, with Drake third, Bud Perry
fourth and Marcus Malcuit fifth.
Main Event Racing Series
Top Qualifier - Donnie Hill 12.604
Lap Leader - Don Mahaffey, Jr. 1-75
Brake Man Certificate - Jeremy Dennis
Joe's Racing Products Certificate - Donnie Hill
Jaycox Hoosier Tire Award - Bud Perry
Longacre Certificate - Marcus Malcuit
Hot Rodz 75 - Don Mahaffey, Jr., Drew Charlson, Scott
Drake, Bud Perry, Marcus Malcuit, Harold Fair, Jr., John Stroble,
John Flynn, Matthew Parsons, Jeremy Dennis, Brock Coyer, Donnie
Hill, Bob Gainer, Craig Everage
VanDoorn = Stan Donner At Dixie Motor Speedway
Johnny VanDoorn picked
up his second straight Main Event Racing Series with a dominating
appearance at Dixie Motor Speedway in Birch Run, MI. VanDoorn
set fast time and claimed his second career Main Event win in the
new Port City house car. The Main Event Racing Series will next be in action this
coming Saturday, September 8 at Shady Bowl Speedway.
Main Event Racing Series Top Qualifier - Johnny VanDoorn
14.585
Lap Leaders - Dakota Carlson 1-28, VanDoorn 29-100
Brakeman Award - Harold Fair, Jr.
Longacre Certificate - Marcus Malcuit
Jaycox Tire Award - John Flynn
Joe's Racing Product Award - Jack Varney, Jr.
Port City/Great Lakes Helicopter 100 - Johnny VanDoorn,
Dakota Carlson, Harold Fair, Jr., Eric Lee, Marcus Malcuit, Mike
Root, Jack Varney, Jr., Justin Schroeder, Craig Everage, Scott
Drake, Steve Sauve, Jason Laduke, Bud Perry, Dave Stehouwer, Charlie
Schultz, Mike Beach, Chet Allen, Sam Coulter, Jeff Reamer, Scott
Pemberton, Mickey Maier, Todd Rosebrugh, Nick Clemens
VanDoorn smothers Toledo field with Domination By Todd Ridgeway
Any time
Johnny VanDoorn pulls into the pit area to unload he is a factor,
any race, any racetrack. And this showed at Toledo (OH) Speedway
last Friday night as VanDoorn set a blistering lap in qualifying and
then drew the invert of 14 for the race line up. Not to be denied
VanDoorn sailed to the front and by lap 21 he was on point and never
looked back. His third win of the week was not easy, but he sure
made it look like it.
With a special set of Hoosier rubber on for this race
only, a harder tire 45 compound on the left and 56 compound on the
right, the combined ARCA Allegiant Gold Cup Series and Main Event
Racing Series cars would come to the green for the start of the
Miller Lite 100. The first time combined groups of well prepared
bullets where led to the start by pole sitter Jimmy Carter with Chad
Guinn alongside. Carter would dart to the point with Guinn right
there challenging every lap with the other 25 cars in tow. At lap 13
the first of four yellows would fly when Guinn slipped up out of the
groove and smashed the turn one wall. VanDoorn had steered his way
to fourth and as the field was brought together for the double file
restart valuable track position was gained. As the racing went back
under the green VanDoorn started making some serious moves to get up
front. At lap 15 he went past Jack Varney Jr. for third, lap 18 he
cruised past the 33 car of Jake Francis into second and set his
sights on the leader Carter. At lap 20 VanDoorn made the move as the
two top runners went door to door until at lap 21 VanDoorn was able
to clear and get back on the bottom of the race track. From there it
was a blistering pace from the VanDoorn Machine. Making his first
start of the 2012 season Johnny Beloit had started 13th and made his
way to second with Harold Fair Jr. third as the laps winded down. A
lap 91 yellow for a crash with Varney Jr. and Francis on the back
stretch would create a final double file restart giving Beloit a
shot at VanDoorn. They ran together for one lap but, VanDoorn just
pushed the peddle harder and sailed out to a several car length
lead. As VanDoorn set sail for the checkers, Fair Jr. was applying
the heat to Beloit in a strong battle for the runner up spot. At one
point the two touch getting sideways but they would both follow
VanDoorn across the line with Beloit second and Fair Jr. third.
Dakota Carlson was fourth and Barry Hartwell rounded out the top
five finishers in a 100 lap race that took just one hour to
complete.
“I really had an awesome night,” started VanDoorn. ‘You
just dream about these kinds of nights, I could just drive it
wherever it needed to go. I just picked and choose where I wanted to
go. This is a brand new house car, Port City racecars are just a
really good piece. It is never easy, but this car was hooked up
tonight. It just made it easy to drive and just being smart keeping
the fenders on it. And then going at a pace to keep the tires on it.
A 100 lap race around here can eat up your tires. The harder I
drove, the better it stuck. This is three in a row. I won at Dixie
(MI) two weeks ago, Kalamazoo (MI) Wednesday, and then here tonight.
I have been dreaming of winning three races in a row and finally did
it. This by far is my favorite track; it has been since the first
time I ever tested here. I always enjoy coming here, hopefully I
will have enough points lead in the CRA Series that I can get a
break and come here to run the Glass City race, I really want to win
that race,” finished Miller Lite 100 Champion.
“Pretty good run for the first race of the year,” said
Beloit. “We actually had 20 laps of practice before the qualifying
lap. Harold runs good here, it was tough, I enjoyed it. I have three
kids at home, I don’t need to race that much. I will be back at the
Glass City and there are a couple more, Owosso (MI) is supposed to
have one this year I will run,” finished runner up Beloit.
“We just came up a little short,” noted Fair Jr. “We
were not running on full power, we lost a cylinder or two. It was a
really good car. The car was awesome in the corners. This Royal
Truck and Trailer Chevy is really good. There was a little
vibration, but still a pretty good car. Down that far on horsepower
here at this Toledo track, I would have thought I would have gotten
lapped,” finished fair Jr.
Main Event Racing
Series/Gold Cup
Top Qualifier - Johnny VanDoorn 14.944
Miller Lite 100 - Johnny VanDoorn, Johnny Belott, Harold
Fair Jr., Dakota Carlson, Barry Hartwell, Mike Root, Bud Perry, Justin Schroeder,
Charlie Schultz, John Flynn, Frank Kimmel II, Jake Francis, Jack
Varney Jr., Jimmy Carter, Kenny Phillips, Steve Cronenwett Jr.,
Chris Benson, Scott Drake, Strickland, Marcus Malcuit, Guinn, Rick
Sibila, Hantz, Ron Allen, Craig Everage, Brent Jack
VanDoorn smothers Toledo field with Domination By Todd Ridgeway
Any time
Johnny VanDoorn pulls into the pit area to unload he is a factor,
any race, any racetrack. And this showed at Toledo (OH) Speedway
last Friday night as VanDoorn set a blistering lap in qualifying and
then drew the invert of 14 for the race line up. Not to be denied
VanDoorn sailed to the front and by lap 21 he was on point and never
looked back. His third win of the week was not easy, but he sure
made it look like it.
With a special set of Hoosier rubber on for this race
only, a harder tire 45 compound on the left and 56 compound on the
right, the combined ARCA Allegiant Gold Cup Series and Main Event
Racing Series cars would come to the green for the start of the
Miller Lite 100. The first time combined groups of well prepared
bullets where led to the start by pole sitter Jimmy Carter with Chad
Guinn alongside. Carter would dart to the point with Guinn right
there challenging every lap with the other 25 cars in tow. At lap 13
the first of four yellows would fly when Guinn slipped up out of the
groove and smashed the turn one wall. VanDoorn had steered his way
to fourth and as the field was brought together for the double file
restart valuable track position was gained. As the racing went back
under the green VanDoorn started making some serious moves to get up
front. At lap 15 he went past Jack Varney Jr. for third, lap 18 he
cruised past the 33 car of Jake Francis into second and set his
sights on the leader Carter. At lap 20 VanDoorn made the move as the
two top runners went door to door until at lap 21 VanDoorn was able
to clear and get back on the bottom of the race track. From there it
was a blistering pace from the VanDoorn Machine. Making his first
start of the 2012 season Johnny Beloit had started 13th and made his
way to second with Harold Fair Jr. third as the laps winded down. A
lap 91 yellow for a crash with Varney Jr. and Francis on the back
stretch would create a final double file restart giving Beloit a
shot at VanDoorn. They ran together for one lap but, VanDoorn just
pushed the peddle harder and sailed out to a several car length
lead. As VanDoorn set sail for the checkers, Fair Jr. was applying
the heat to Beloit in a strong battle for the runner up spot. At one
point the two touch getting sideways but they would both follow
VanDoorn across the line with Beloit second and Fair Jr. third.
Dakota Carlson was fourth and Barry Hartwell rounded out the top
five finishers in a 100 lap race that took just one hour to
complete.
“I really had an awesome night,” started VanDoorn. ‘You
just dream about these kinds of nights, I could just drive it
wherever it needed to go. I just picked and choose where I wanted to
go. This is a brand new house car, Port City racecars are just a
really good piece. It is never easy, but this car was hooked up
tonight. It just made it easy to drive and just being smart keeping
the fenders on it. And then going at a pace to keep the tires on it.
A 100 lap race around here can eat up your tires. The harder I
drove, the better it stuck. This is three in a row. I won at Dixie
(MI) two weeks ago, Kalamazoo (MI) Wednesday, and then here tonight.
I have been dreaming of winning three races in a row and finally did
it. This by far is my favorite track; it has been since the first
time I ever tested here. I always enjoy coming here, hopefully I
will have enough points lead in the CRA Series that I can get a
break and come here to run the Glass City race, I really want to win
that race,” finished Miller Lite 100 Champion.
“Pretty good run for the first race of the year,” said
Beloit. “We actually had 20 laps of practice before the qualifying
lap. Harold runs good here, it was tough, I enjoyed it. I have three
kids at home, I don’t need to race that much. I will be back at the
Glass City and there are a couple more, Owosso (MI) is supposed to
have one this year I will run,” finished runner up Beloit.
“We just came up a little short,” noted Fair Jr. “We
were not running on full power, we lost a cylinder or two. It was a
really good car. The car was awesome in the corners. This Royal
Truck and Trailer Chevy is really good. There was a little
vibration, but still a pretty good car. Down that far on horsepower
here at this Toledo track, I would have thought I would have gotten
lapped,” finished fair Jr.
Shady Bowl Event Postponed Due To Rain By Earl Isaacs
Shady Bowl Speedway endured a rough night of racing
Saturday (8/4).Rain played havoc with the scheduled program. The
Main Event Racing Series were to be the stars of the nights action,
but Mother Nature had other ideas. A heavy rain with high winds and
lightning hit the speedway just after time trials causing a two hour
delay as officials did a great job of getting the track dried out
and ready for racing.
It was finally determined the surface was race able and
the street stocks took to the speedway for a 40 lap $500.00 to win
feature. Greenville's Brian Reeser took the lead at the drop of
starter Roger Wingets green flag. Reeser held the top spot until lap
27 when Buck Purtee took over the lead. Purtee led the next four
counters before Springhills driver Mike Snapp got by with an inside
move. Snapp was able to hold off Purtee the final laps to take the
win. Snapp was behind the wheel of the Heath Farms/Winget Race Cars
Monte Carlo. Purtee, Scott Sullenberger, Reeser and Chris Abbott
rounded out the top five. Ricky Young celebrated his birthday by
setting quick time.
The compacts were up next, with newcomer Randy Shannon
Jr. of Columbus edging Matt Jackson to post his first feature win in
his Scottscape Tree Service Cavalier.
The Main Event Racing Series was the next event, but
once again Mother Nature took over top spot by turning loose a
downpour. Officials were forced to cancel the event, rescheduling it
for September 8th.
Linda Young, Shady Bowl Speedway owner made a decision
that the fans were not to be put out by the rain. It was announced
that tickets would be honored for the make-up event. What this means
is that fans were basically guests of the speedway for Saturday's
action (qualifications for all classes, street stock and compact
features) .
Main Event Racing Series
Fast qualifier: Marcus Malcuit 12.380
Scott Baker Cruises To Sandusky Main Event Victory
By Bob Stascak
The Main Event Racing Series (MERS) Super Late Models
were lined up on the front straight for the drivers introductions.
Pacing the field to the green flag was a pair of veteran
drivers in the Super Late Model wars, polesitter Marcus Malcuit and
Scott Baker. The caution flag waved before on lap was completed when
Harold Fair Jr. and Jake Francis spun in turn three.
There was another caution on this restart when Jeremy
Dennis tapped the backstraight wall. Nick Grodi and Tyler Strickland
also spun. Strickland spun again in turn three and would be hooked
and taken to the pit area, out of the race on the following restart
attempt.
Baker led followed by Malcuit briefly then Bud Perry
took over second position. Running third would be Malcuit followed
by Fair Jr. and Francis. The caution flag was out again on lap seven
for Rich Rohrer who went off of turn one.
Baker led on the restart until the next caution which
came on lap eleven when Donnie Hill spun in turn one. There was oil
all the way around the track and the race was red flagged at this
point.
When racing resumed it was Baker leading followed by
Perry, Fair Jr., Francis and Jimmy Carter. Baker had a comfortable
lead until lap twenty seven when John Sandquist Jr. was off of the
pace and headed into the pit area, bringing out the caution flag
once again.
It was green flag racing for the next eleven laps as
Baker resumed his comfortable lead over Perry. The caution flag
waved on lap thirty eight when Drew Charlson hit the inside guard
rail, Charlson was not injured, Scott Drake was also involved.
The final caution of the race came on lap forty one when
John Flynn spun in turn four.
Baker once again put his car far enough ahead of Perry
to remain unchallenged for the remainder of the race. Scott Baker, a
thirty one year veteran driver, took the checkered flag in
convincing fashion tonight leading all seventy five laps.
Bud Perry, Harold Fair, Jr., Donnie Hill, and Jake
Francis completed the top five. Others in the top ten were Jimmy
Carter, Justin Schroeder, Craig Everage, Jack Varney, Jr., and
Charlie Schultz.
The Main Event Racing Series will next be in action on
Saturday, August 4 at Shady Bowl Speedway in DeGraff, OH.
Main Event Racing Series
Diamond Products Top Qualifier - Harold Fair, Jr. 16.501
Lap Leaders - Scott Baker 1-75
Longacre Award - Scott Drake
Joe's Racing Products - Jeremy Dennis
Brakeman - John Flynn
Jaycox Tire - Nick Grodi
OE Meyer 75 - Scott Baker, Bud Perry, Harold Fair, Jr., Donnie Hill,
Jake Francis, Jimmy Carter, Justin Schroeder, Craig Everage, Jack
Varney, Jr., Charlie Schultz, John Flynn, Drew Charlson, Nick Grodi,
Scott Drake, John Sandquist, Dan Burden, Tim Ice, Rich Rohrer,
Marcus Malcuit, Bob Gainer, Jeremy Dennis, Tyler Strickland
Dixie Classic 100 To Its Root In Birch Run
Story Courtesy Of The Saginaw News
Former Dixie Cup Series champion Mike Root made a late run and came
away with the win Friday in the 47th annual Dixie Classic 100 at
Dixie Motor Speedway.
Root waited to make his charge with just 10 laps
remaining, snaring the lead and cruising to the win in the event,
which was sanctioned by the Main Event Racing Series and the Dixie
Cup Series.
The Super Late Model race featured 20 drivers, with
Michigan Motorsports Hall of Famer Steve Sauve taking the lead for
the first 16 laps before losing the lead to AuGres driver Mike
Luberda Jr.
Harold Fair Jr., who was coming off wins at Flat Rock,
Toledo and Shady Bowl, took the top spot on lap 20 and take control
through lap 75 when fluid on the track brought out the caution flag.
When racing resumed, Luberda jumped in front until Root
made the final charge to the checkered flag.
Justin Claucherty, Justin Schroeder, Mike Luberda, Jr.,
and Mickey Maier completed the top five. Todd Rosebrugh, Marcus
Malcuit, Dakota Carlson, Scott Pemberton, and Dominic Van Wieringen
completed the top ten.
The series will next be at Sandusky Speedway this coming
Saturday, July 21 for a 75 lap feature. Full details of the event
are posted at www.maineventracingseries.com.
Main Event Racing Series
Top Qualifier - Mike Root 14.605
Lap Leaders - Steve Sauve, Mike Luberda, Jr., Harold
Fair, Jr., Mike Root
Dixie Classic 100 - Mike Root, Justin Claucherty, Justin
Schroder, Mike Luberda, Jr., Mickey Maier, Todd Rosebrugh, Marcus
Malcuit, Dakota Carlson, Scott Pemberton, Dominic Van Wieringen,
Jeff Reamer, Jack Varney, Jr., Steve Sauve, Harold Fair, Jr., Ron
Coulter, Craig Everage, Bud Perry, Scott Drake, Nick Clemens, John
Flynn
Rohrer Captures Midvale Main Event Win In Front Of Capacity Crowd By Adam Mackey
One of the biggest crowds in Midvale Speedway history gathered to
watch a thrilling night of racing action and a gigantic firework
display, this past Tuesday, July 3. The line of fans coming into
the track was the longest in history, as it was three rows wide and
spilled through the parking lot and onto the adjacent State St. In
action was the Main Event Racing Series, joined by Economy Modifieds,
Pure Stocks, Compacts, and Stock Compacts.
A full field of Main Event Racing Series Super Late
Model stars were on hand to compete for the Downtown Ford 100
victory. In qualifying, five-time MERS point champion Gary Whipkey,
driving his former championship winning racecar now owned by Jeff
Taylor Racing, set quick time with a 13.628. Harold Fair, Jr.
13.636, Rich Rohrer 13.677, Justin Schroeder 13.724, and Charlie
Schultz 13.725 were the rest of the top five. After the session
ended, Whipkey pulled the number ten pill, putting himself tenth and
Rick Sibila and Tim Ice on the front row.
When the green waved, current Midvale Speedway point
leader Rick Sibila took the early lead with Ice dropping into the
second spot. Over the first five laps of green, Rich Rohrer and
Gary Whipkey, two of the favorites, started making their way forward
by picking up a few spots to move into fifth and sixth spots
respectively.
The first yellow came out on lap five for an
accident between top five competitors Bob Sibila, Jr. and Marcus
Malcuit. The two made contact in a battle for real estate coming
onto the frontstretch with Sibila spinning and Malcuit breaking the
spindle on the right front. Malcuit retired immediately, while
Sibila came back onto the track only to have a related failure cause
a crash.
It was also during this stage of the race that
second place driver, Tim Ice, had extreme overheating problems
caused by mechanical failure. Ice retired to the pits after his
strong qualifying effort. That moved Rohrer up to third, Whipkey to
fourth, and Charlie Schultz into fifth.
As the green again came back out, Rohrer started to
apply major pressure on Bud Perry for the runner-up spot. Rohrer
looked low a few times but had to check up as he wasn't able to get
far enough alongside. That all changed on lap ten, though, as he
got a great run off the turn and shot past the 2011 series
champion. Three laps later, the Canton, Ohio driver made quick work
of Sibila, and shot into the lead.
As the long green flag run continued, 41 laps to be
exact, fans were watching Rohrer put on a clinic as he pulled to a
lead that was over half the track. It was also during this period
of time that Perry was working hard to get by Sibila for second and
Jimmy Carter was picking off one car at a time to recover from his
subpar qualifying lap. Carter started the race in 14th, but found
himself in the top five by the lap 46 caution.
The caution not only eliminated Rohrer's lead over
Perry and Sibila, it saved a lot of drivers from going down a lap.
Rohrer was just catching the 2nd-8th place cars when the yellow came
out.
After a few cautions around the midpoint of the
race, another long green flag run from lap 70 to the end would
settle the finish. Rohrer again pulled to a comfortable lead, while
Perry fended off a strong challenge from Carter, before the latter's
brakes started to fail.
In the end, it was the Miller 64/Freedom Harley
Davidson #7 of Rich Rohrer claiming his series leading 19th career
victory. The many-time Midvale Speedway point champion's Hutter
Powered-Port City was followed by Perry, Carter, Harold Fair, Jr.,
and Justin Schroeder. Others in the top ten were Scott Drake,
Jeremy Dennis, Rick Sibila, Charlie Schultz, and Jack Varney, Jr.
The top three finishers picked up an additional $100
each courtesy of Custom Color & Collison Center of North Royalton.
The fifth place finisher, Justin Schroeder, also took an additional
$100 thanks to Norm Taylor at Taylor Painting.
The Main Event Racing Series will next be in action
on Friday, July 13 at Dixie Motor Speedway in Birch Run, MI. The
Dixie Classic will be 100 laps paying $2,500 to win. Info is
available at
www.maineventracingseries.com.
Main Event Racing Series
Diamond Products Top Qualifier - Gary Whipkey 13.628
Lap Leaders - Rick Sibila 1-15, Rich Rohrer 16-100
Contingencies - Brake Man Award - Scott Baker,
Joe's Racing Products - Scott Drake, Longacre - Marcus Malcuit,
Jaycox Tire Award - Jack Varney, Jr.
Downtown Ford 100 - Rich Rohrer, Bud Perry, Jimmy
Carter, Harold Fair, Jr., Justin Schroeder, Scott Drake, Jeremy
Dennis, Rick Sibila, Charlie Schultz, Jack Varney, Jr., Nick Grodi,
John Flynn, Emerson Huffman, Gary Whipkey, John Stroble, Don Harvey,
Jr., Rich Marcum, Bob Gainer, Scott Baker, Donnie Hill, Tim Ice, Bob
Sibila, Jr.
Harvey Is Superman At Barberton With MERS
Fast Time & Win By Adam Mackey
(6-15-16) The long awaited return for the Main Event Racing Series
Super Late Models ended this past Friday, June 15 at Barberton OH
Raceway Park. The Outlaw cars were joined by the Northern Ohio
Legends, Rittzman Muffler Sportsman, Copley Car Care Hobby Stocks,
Habco Tool & Development Pure Stocks, and the Canal Fulton Tire
Mini-Trucks for an action packed night in front of a near capacity
crowd.
In Main Event Racing Series qualifying on the newly
widened and paved 1/4-mile oval, Don Harvey, Jr. set fast time with
a 13.643. He pulled the "8" pill, which sent him to the eighth
starting position and put Bud Perry and Marcus Malcuit on the front
row for the 100-lap event.
When the green waved, it was 2011 champion, Bud
Perry taking the lead, while Malcuit settled into second. Entering
the turn on the second lap, a couple of drivers at the front of the
pack got together, checked up, and created a chain reaction mishap
behind them that saw Tim Ice, Jimmy Carter, and Rick Sibila
involved. All were able to continue.
Racing got back underway with Perry continuing out
front. With five laps in, as the field exited turn four, contact
ensued between Perry and second place driver, Mike Mazzagatti. Both
drivers felt the other was at fault and both restarted at the tail.
That handed the lead to 2010 champion, Jimmy Carter,
who was driving the Frank Oriti owned #72 for the first time.
Carter, who ran a lot of practice laps two nights earlier to get the
car dialed in, looked smooth at the front of the pack and led Gary
Whipkey, the next 25 laps. However, one lap after a lap 30 restart,
Carter pushed up entering turn one and Whipkey shot by to the
lowside. Moments later, Carter retired from the event.
The five time champion nearly lulled the crowd to
sleep over the next 58 laps, as he dominated the race out front.
However, around the lap 85 mark, it was clear to see trouble was
looming. Whipkey's car started to show an extremely loose condition
entering the turns and looked to be just hanging on. Just after the
completion of lap 88, Whipkey entered turn one with Harvey right on
his tail. The Jeff Taylor Racing #39 slid sideways and, this time,
wasn't correctable as Harvey cruised by and caution waved. Whipkey
retired with brake failure.
Over the final twelve laps, Harvey pulled away to
clinch his fourth feature victory of the season at Barberton. This
one, though, was definitely the biggest, paying $2,500 to win with
an additional $200 coming from track and car sponsor Rittzman
Muffler for the fast qualifier award. Harvey was elated in victory
lane, at one point asking if this was a dream. It was not, as he
claimed the win from the eighth starting position.
The Akron Auto & Truck Tire/TNR Drywall #112 was
followed by Tim Ice, who rallied from the second lap caution to
finish second in the Francis Engineering #33. Malcuit avoided the
cautions to finish third, while Scott Drake had a solid fourth place
run, and Perry finished fifth for a good points night. Jack Varney,
Jr., John Flynn, Whipkey, Bob Gainer, and Sibila were top ten
finishers.
The Main Event Racing Series will be in action this
coming Friday, June 22 at Dixie Motor Speedway in Birch Run, MI for
a 75-lap grind. Information will be available at
maineventracingseries.com and dixiemotorspeedway.com.
Main Event Racing Series
Jaycox Tire Award - John Flynn
Longacre Award - Bud Perry
Joe's Racing Product Award - Jimmy Carter
Diamond Products/Rittzman Muffler Top Qualifier -
Don Harvey, Jr. 13.643
Lap Leaders - Bud Perry 1-5, Jimmy Carter 6-31, Gary
Whipkey 32-88, Don Harvey, Jr. 89-100
Main Event 100 - Don Harvey, Jr., Tim Ice, Marcus
Malcuit, Scott Drake, Bud Perry, Jack Varney, Jr., John Flynn, Gary
Whipkey, Bob Gainer, Rick Sibila, Mike Mazzagatti, Dave Martin,
Dwain Willis, Jimmy Carter
Star Studded Field To Race Friday At
Barberton Raceway Park Main Event Super Lates Making Only 2012 Visit Friday
Night
By Adam Mackey
For
the first time since 2009, the Main Event Racing Series will be
making a visit to Barberton Raceway Park in Norton, Ohio. It will
also be the first time the Super Late Model touring series has
competed at the 1/4-mile asphalt oval since the renovation project
widened and repaved the speedway.
It will be the fourth event of the season for the
Outlaw cars, with Justin Schroeder claiming the season opening win
at Sandusky, 2011 champion Bud Perry winning at Columbus, and
current point leader, Harold Fair, Jr. winning last weekend at Shady
Bowl.
Barberton, known for a longtime as one of the
toughest tracks on the circuit to maneuver, is expecting to see a
field of stars in the neighborhood of 22 for the 100-lap grind.
Leading the list of potential winners is five time
MERS point champion Gary Whipkey. The Doylestown, Ohio driver will
be driving his championship winning car that is now owned by Jeff
Taylor. Whipkey won the season opener with the car at BRP in the
Late Model division.
Three-time series champion Tim Ice has landed a ride
with the Francis Engineering race team and will be driving the #33
on Friday night. Ice badly damaged his own ride at the Columbus
event two weeks ago.
Late Model division point leader, Don Harvey, Jr.
will be making his return to the series as well. Harvey is hoping
that he got his bad luck out of the way last Friday night, after
getting caught up in a grinding crash on the frontstretch. Harvey
won the 2009 MERS race at the track.
After missing last week's race at Shady Bowl to run,
and win, the Late Model division feature at Midvale Speedway, former
series champion Jimmy Carter will return to action at Barberton.
Carter will be piloting the Frank Oriti owned #72 that Frank Kimmel,
II drove at the Sandusky opener.
In addition to some of the names above, expect all
of the frontrunners in this year's series championship race. Harold
Fair, Jr. will be looking to extend his point lead after three
straight top fives to start the season including the Shady Bowl
win. Fellow Michigan native, Jack Varney, Jr. will try to continue
his solid start as he enters second in the standings. Bud Perry,
Shawn Stroble, and Donnie Hill enter the event top five in points.
Six through ten in this year's points are Nick Grodi, Marcus Malcuit,
Jeremy Dennis, Scott Drake, and John Stroble.
In addition to the Main Event Super Late 100,
Legends, Sportsman, Hobby Stocks, Pure Stocks, and Mini-Trucks will
be in action.
Pits will open at 2:00, grandstands and hotlaps at
4:00, MERS qualifying is at 6:20, and racing will see its first
green flag at 7:30. Admission is $18 for adults and seniors, $10
for kids 6-12 and active military members, and children five and
under are free. Pit admission is $30 for Barberton NASCAR members
and $35 for non members.
More information on the event may be available at
barbertonracewaypark.com and maineventracingseries.com.
A Fair Night At Shady Bowl MERS Race By Earl Isaacs
Shady Bowl Speedway opened its gates for a huge crowd Saturday, as
the Main Event Racing Series made its first of two stops this
season. The ever popular full bodied racers are a fan favorite, as
the cars are the fastest pavement stocks in the Midwest.
It became quite clear early in the evening that the
track was quick, as Columbus driver Donnie Hill set a new track
record with a 12.314 lap. The time broke the existing track record
held by Mike Stacy that was set in 1998.
The Hot Rodz 75 feature for the cars was great race for
the fans and drivers alike. Don Mahaffey Jr. broke out front at the
drop of the green in his Hanger 18 backed racer. The race was red
flagged on lap thirteen when Shawn Stroble and Donnie Hill made
contact on the backchute. The crash eliminated both cars, with both
drivers uninjured. When racing resumed Mahaffey took his top running
spot with 2011 MERS champion Bud Perry in tow.
The run came to an end on lap 42 when Mahaffey and Perry
made contact on the front chute. Mahaffey spun off the track from
the contact. The crash also collected Marcus Malcuit and Drew
Charlson. All the cars were able to continue with the exception of
Malcuit. Officials determined that Mahaffey and Perry would both
restart at the rear of the field on the restart.
When the green flew again Michigan driver Jack Varney
took over the helm. Varney held the point until lap 62 when Harold
Fair took charge. The Milan, MI veteran then set sail for the
checker in his Royal Truck and Trailer sponsored ride. The second
generation driver went on to post his first win of the season.
Varney held on for second, with Eric Lee third, Nick Grodi fourth
and Jeremy Dennis fifth.
The Main Event Racing Series will be in action this
coming Friday, June 15 at Barberton Raceway Park in Norton, Ohio for
a 100-lap grind. Legends, Sportsman, Hobby Stocks, Pure Stocks, and
Mini Trucks will also race.
Pit gates open at 2:00, hotlaps at 4:00, qualifying at
6:20, and racing action will start at 7:30. More info is available
at www.maineventracingseries.com and www.barbertonracewaypark.com.
Main Event Racing Series
Top Qualifier - Donnie Hill 12.314 NTR
Lap Leaders - Don Mahaffey, Jr. 1-42, Jack Varney, Jr.
43-62, Harold Fair, Jr. 63-75
Jaycox Tire Award - Marcus Malcuit
Longacre Certificate - John Flynn
Joe's Racing Products - Shawn Stroble
Hot Rodz 75 - Harold Fair, Jr., Jack Varney, Jr., Eric
Lee, Nick Grodi, Jeremy Dennis, Don Mahaffey, Jr., Tyler Strickland,
Drew Charlson, Bud Perry, Paul Pelletier, Mike Kennedy, Marcus
Malcuit, John Flynn, Shawn Stroble, Donnie Hill, John Stroble, Brian
Fries
Bud Perry Smokes Main Event Field At
Columbus
By Jeff Nuckles
The Main Event Racing Series only appearance of the 2012 season at
the facility that witnessed the series thrive beyond anyone’s
expectations for the 22 years witnessed Bud Perry securing victory
in a 75-lap affair. The pride of Quincy, OH Josh Smith surged ahead
of polesitter, Jake Francis from the outset of the contest holding
court over the 19-car field through lap-10 when Hill swept around
the leader in the very fast outside lane. Following the multi time
track champion around was Perry who had hounded Smith early on. Next
around the early pacesetter was fast qualifier Harold Fair Jr as the
fleet trio checked out on the field. As the laps click off, what
began as a wisp of smoke from Hill’s Architect Glass entry became
thicker eventually sidelining Hill with engine problems on lap-31.
Perry led Fair and Smith back to the green flag with the top two
stretching their margin at will. Smith eventually retired from the
event but not before Jack Varney and series point leader Justin
Schroeder drove past on the top shelf in the closing stages of the
contest. Fair closed on Perry in the final ten counters but could
not mount a challenge as Perry streaking under the checkered flag.
Fair, Varney, Schroeder and Jamie Hunt rounded out the top five.
Main Event Super Late Models
Diamond Products Top Qualifier - Harold Fair, Jr.
Longacre Award - Donnie Hill
Race Leaders - Josh Smith, Donnie Hill, Bud Perry
Feature - Bud Perry, Harold Fair, Jr., Jack Varney,
Justin Schroeder, Jamie Hunt, Marcus Malcuit, Shawn Stroble, Jimmy
Carter, John Stroble, Nick Grodi, Jake Francis, Scott Drake, Josh
Smith, Jeremy Dennis, Donnie Hill, John Flynn, Bob Schneider, Jr.,
Rich Rohrer, Tim Ice
Schroeder Dominates MERS 2012 Opener
By Todd Ridgeway
A yellow streak. That is about all the stellar field of Main Event
Racing Series (MERS) Super Late Models drivers saw as Justin
Schroeder kicked down the door to open the new season. Streaking to
the checkered flag, Schroeder set a very fast pace in the 75 lap
2012 opener for the Super Late Model warriors at Sandusky (OH)
Speedway Saturday night, taking off from the word go and never
looked back. 27 very fast race cars filled the Sandusky pit area for
the opening party in northern Ohio.
Schroeder and pole sitter Shawn Stroble would bring the
field to the green flag as the distinct sound of the Super Late
Models would entertain the Northern Ohio night and fill the air.
With a beautiful night and nice crowd on hand the race was on. With
23 other top notch beautiful racers in tow the field would blast
into turn one fighting for position. Schroeder got an excellent
start as he jumped off turn two and down to the bottom grabbing the
lead. Immediately a very serious pace was set as the top five
dropped in line while the others scattered for positions. Two minor
yellows would fly before the halfway point as Schroeder laid down
some amazing laps. At the half Jimmy Carter, Harold Fair Jr., and
2011 MERS Champion Bud Perry would come up to join Schroeder and
Stroble in the top five. Schroder would work the lapped traffic
perfectly as he moved through smooth as can be and off the corners
like a rocket. The third yellow would fly just a handful of laps
from the finish to put the field back together for a final single
file restart. When the green was displayed it was no surprise to see
Schroder check out on the field untouched. Stroble now had his hands
full with Carter as the Cleveland driver was able to get inside
Stroble’s quarter panel. However, it was not enough as Stroble
warded him off and moved in on the leader with but three laps to go.
On the final lap Stroble was there as he got to the inside and up to
Schroder’s rear tire. But in the end Schroder proved to have too
much horsepower cruising to the checkers and securing the victory.
Carter would settle for third, Fair Jr. got fourth and Championship
driver Donnie “Zero” Hill mustered up the fifth position.
“The start was huge,” said Schroder. “We got out front
and could just ride there and pace myself. The crew kept telling me
how far back he was. We just wanted to make sure we had something
there at the end, the car was flawless. He raced me clean, I’ve
never had a problem with him, I appreciate everyone running clean,”
finished the happy winner.
Stroble was very happy to get the runner up spot. “He
got me on the start; I was sleeping on the start. I want to
congratulate him on the win. He started to pull away, then I would
catch him, I don’t think I could do anything with him unless I moved
him. I don’t race that way, we almost made a last move, and he came
down a little bit. But, we are racing for the win, he is supposed
to, it’s his race to lose. That’s what I expected him to do. I am
just tickled to death with second in this field. I have never seen a
field like this. The caliber of cars, it’s unlike any MERS I’ve ever
seen. I only had about 30 laps in this car before, so I am really
happy,” finished Stroble.
“We just totally missed it,” said third place Carter.
“We broke a rear end up here last night testing, we went home and
changed it. We were really tight, we just totally missed it,”
finished Carter.
27 cars filled the Sandusky (OH) Speedway pit area, as
24 would take the green flag. A three caution 75 lap race was in the
books in less than one hour, and no cars toted off on the hook.
Defending MERS Champion Bud Perry set fast time with a lap of 16.366
and an inversion of eight was implemented on the field. Brian Short
started 18 and sailed to an eighth place finish and first time Late
Model driver Frank Kimmel II started 14 and finished in tenth. This
was the first of 13 stops for the MERS 2012 campaign. Next week will
be Auto City in Flint Michigan.
Main Event Racing Series
Top Qualifier - Bud Perry 16.366 NTR
DNS - Tyler Strickland
Lap Leader - Justin Schroeder 1-75
Direct Detail 75 - Justin Schroeder, Shawn Stroble,
Jimmy Carter, Harold Fair, Jr., Donnie Hill, Craig Everage, Bud
Perry, Brian Short, Jack Varney, Jr., Frank Kimmel, II, Josh Smith,
Tim Ice, Dennis Strickland, John Stroble, Nick Grodi, John Flynn,
Ron Allen, Jeremy Dennis, Brock Coyer, Jake Francis, Charlie
Schultz, Marcus Malcuit, Scott Drake, John Sandquist
Main Event Racing Season 2012 Tour Opens Up
This Saturday Season Opener Part Of Sandusky Speedway's Super Nationals
Reed's Salvage and Direct Detail will be presenting the 2012 Super
Nationals at Sandusky Speedway this coming Saturday, May 19. Fans
will be treated to the MSA Super Modifieds, the Sandusky Speedway
Street Stocks, and the Main Event Racing Series season opener.
A stout list of Super Late Model drivers have
pre-entered to run the full season in 2012. Included are former
Main Event champions Jimmy Carter and Bud Perry, many time Columbus
Motor Speedway winner and champion, Donnie "Zero" Hill, former
Iceman Series champion Scott Baker, longtime Midvale Speedway
standout and former Main Event competitor Marcus Malcuit, and son of
many time ARCA champion Frank Kimmel, Frank Kimmel, II. Others on
the list looking to claim a victory are Brian Short, Jeremy Dennis,
Brock Coyer, Tyler Strickland, Justin Schroeder, John Flynn, and
Scott Drake. Those are drivers who took advantage of the discounted
pre-entry rate for the complete season.
As always with the series, many drivers show up to
enter at the track and that will make for a great field to start the
2012 campaign. In fact, Main Event Racing Series managers Kevin
Jaycox and Chris Tolloty, expect the field to be in upwards of close
to 30 cars for the opener.
Pit gates Saturday open at 12:00 as well as the
mandatory tech line, grandstands open at 3:00 for practice,
qualifying will start at 5:30, and racing will begin at 7:00. Adult
admission is $22 for adults, $20 for seniors 65+, $5 for kids 6-12,
and children five and under are free. Pit admission is $30 for
members and $35 for non-members. There will be an open practice
Friday from 12:00 to dark with $10 admission into the pits.
For more information, go to sanduskyspeedway.com or
maineventracingseries.com.
Coyer Enterprises Again Steps Up To Sponsor
Contingency Program
Coyer Enterprises of Bellefontaine, OH, has again stepped up to help
the Main Event Racing Series competitors out with the 2012
contingency sponsorships. After each race, several gift
certificates will be handed out to competitors.
This season, Joes Racing Products, Landrum Springs,
Longacre, The Brake Man, and Motorstate will be presenting drivers
with product certificates to use toward their purchases. At the end
of the season, a Lefthander Chassis will be presented to one
competitor courtesy of Lefthander and Coyer Enterprises.
Coyer Enterprises has a huge selection of Longacre
and other racing products on hand below catalog prices. For more
information, go to
www.coyerracing.com.
2012 Rules Are PostedOnline
(They were reposted on November 8th, with a couple of minor
adjustments)
Rules will also
be available this weekend at the Stark County Fairground
swap meet and Kevin Jaycox & Chris Tolloty will be at the
Sandusky booth Sat 9-3 and Sun 9-12 for any questions you
may have. Also Main Event drivers are welcome to attend the
Sandusky banquet on Sat, Jan 21 where top 10 point money
will be awarded along with a few other awards for the race
teams. Tickets are $35 each and must be purchased in advance
from Sandusky. Call Kevin for info at 419-625-4084
Main Event XXIV On DVD
Didn't get a chance to see Main
Event XXIV or want to check it out
again? No problem. Racingvids.net was on hand at
Columbus Motor Speedway this past
weekend and captured all of the footage on
video. The DVD includes all
races in all divisions with several
different camera angles. The cost is just $20
and will be shipped to your address.
