Tentative dates are January 16th and 17th 2009.
Check http://aarn.com periodically for updates.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Monday, February 18, 2008
REMINDER >>> HAMLIN SPEEDWAY MEETING
The meeting is this Sunday 2/24/08 at S&S Speedways starting at 3:00 PM.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Slingshot News & Other Stuff...
You Know You've Been Around For A While When...
Paging through last week's issue of AARN got me to thinking...I'm gettin' old.
Not that I feel old, but I've come to the realization that I've been involved in the local racing scene for quite a while now, and I was 35 when I got started.
What brought me to this realization? The fact that I'm seeing drivers who I had the pleasure of introducing and writing about when they were just beginning their racing careers, now jumping into the so-called "big leagues" of auto racing. And I can provide some excellent examples...
In 2003 and 2004 I worked at the Mahoning Valley Speedway as the announcer and p.r. person. I remember a very young Kory Rabenold, from Slatington, Pa., winning races and a championship in the Four-Cylinder Stock Car division.
Kory and his parents, Buzzy and Pat, are great people. And Kory quickly displayed considerable talent behind the wheel of his black No. 63 Pinto.
Last week Rabenold, after some fairly rapid success in an asphalt modified followed that brief jaunt in Four-Cylinder competition, took to the superspeedway in Daytona. Kory attempted to qualify for the ARCA ReMax Series event. He timed 56th out of the 65 entries for that race, falling short in his quest to make the starting line-up. But the now 19-year old turned laps at Daytona!
Rabenold intends to compete in as many 2008 ARCA events as possible. For all the details on Kory's excellent adventure in Daytona, refer back to last week's AARN and read the terrific story written by Dino Oberto on page 21.
I remember watching Tom Hessert III blast around the local dirt ovals in a Micro-Sprint. The Cherry Hill, NJ wheel-twister then moved on to USAC Sprint Cars and Midgets. In 2005 and 2006, while I was working with the ARDC, Tom brought his MAACO sponsored midget to Susquehanna and Big Diamond to compete with our club when USAC had some breaks in their schedule.
Hessert ran well in those shows, finishing in the top five on a couple of occasions. And last weekend, Tom Hessert III qualified 11th for that ARCA race on the 2.5 mile superspeedway in Daytona.
But Hessert was not content to simply qualify well. Tommy ran in the top six during the early stages, then took the lead when the front-runners pitted on lap 20-something. Hessert proceeded to set the pace for 21 tours, holding off five-time Daytona winner Bobby Gerhart in the process.
Tom finally made his pitstop, which relegated him near the rear of the cars on the lead lap, but he roared back to finish sixth in his first career start with the Automobile Racing Club of America. ATTABOY, Tom Hessert!
Ryan Preece was just a little kid when I first met him. The ATQMRA midgets ran several races at Mahoning during the two years I worked there, and Ryan was steering 600cc Micro-Sprints at the time. He and his dad towed a Gary King creation, built for asphalt, to Mahoning to battle the TQ midgets on the quarter-mile. And Ryan, despite his youth, spanked the TQ's on a few occasions.
Preece is now buckling into those high-powered missiles they call asphalt modifieds. This week, he is competing in the 42nd Annual World Series of Asphalt Stock Car Racing at Florida's New Smyrna Speedway. He will also take part in this year's NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and, when his schedule permits, gas a Tim Bertrand-owned NEMA Midget at several of New England's pavement tracks.
Funny story about Ryan Preece: strolling through the pits at Mahoning one night, I stopped at Ryan's hauler to chat with him and his dad. During the conversation, I became very curious about Ryan's exact age. He looked like he should still be in elementary school.
I had to ask..."Ryan, just how old are you?"
Ryan stared back at me with a slight smile and a very quizzical look in his eyes. He didn't say anything, but his dad quickly jumped in with a response.
"How old would you like him to be? We have several different birth certificates in the truck," he explained, grinning.
I replied that I didn't care about his age, other than being curious. As long as it was okay with ATQMRA and Mahoning Valley Speedway, it didn't matter to me. But I thought Mr. Preece's answer was pretty comical.
By the way, Ryan was 12 (I think; or he could have been 14) at the time. His age then, as now, doesn't really matter because this kid's a real racer.
Finally, although I'm sure I could come up with additional examples, there is Pottstown, Pa.'s Bret Guzik.
For the past couple of seasons, Guzik has been throwing his 600cc Micro-Sprint into the corners at Lanco's Clyde Martin Memorial Speedway, along with appearances at other local race tracks. Bret notched his first career 600cc victory last summer at the Clyde, and he accumulated more heat race triumphs than anyone else in that class at Lanco.
This year, though, the youthful charger will climb into something much heavier, and much faster, than a 600. Bret Guzik is going from Micro-Sprints on dirt to Late Models on pavement. Bret will guide the Cat Iron Racing Chevrolet Monte Carlo on the NASCAR Whelen All American Series for asphalt late models.
Guzik has already tested his Monte Carlo at Hickory Motor Speedway in NC. He will return to Hickory for a two-day test session in March, just before Easter. Actual competition for Guzik will begin at the Lake Erie Speedway in northwestern Pennsylvania on May 24.
The Cat Iron team plans to venture out to Lake Erie for several shows, including those on June 7, 21, and 28. Bret will make about 12 to 15 events at Lake Erie this season, along with Whelen All American Series races at other venues.
Guzik's new ride can be seen at Motorama this weekend (at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, Pa), and at the upcoming Reading Racing Reunion from February 24th to March 2nd. The Reunion will be held, as always, at the Fairgrounds Square Mall in Muhlenberg Township. Both Motorama and the Reading Racing Reunion will also feature many "small cars", such as Micro-Sprints, Slingshots, Midgets, 600cc Modifieds, etc.
Guzik and his team have partnered with the Racing Against Drugs campaign. They will be handing out information and speaking on behalf of this program throughout the season, wherever the Cat Iron Racing Late Model signs in for action.
For additional information on Bret Guzik and his plans for '08, log on to bretguzikmotorsports.com.
These kids are makin' me feel old, but I wish them the very best as they set out to conquer new challenges in their racing careers.
**************************
More news from the Slingshot Banquet held on February 2nd...
Slingshot founder and Speedway Entertainment head honcho Rich Tobias addressed the banquet attendees after all of the awards had been distributed. Tobias admitted he was very proud of the Slingshot division (after all, he created it and watched it grow from nothing to the status it enjoys today, with cars and tracks and tours all over the USA), and he is very pleased with the fact that it is still growing.
Tobias disclosed that a new regional tour has been added for this season. The Great Lakes Region will debut in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Deer Creek Speedway in Wisconsin will host a National event, and there is talk of a two-day National taking place at that track in early September.
Rich and Mike Feltenberger have "tweaked" the point system for the National Tour. Drivers may now use their weekly track points, along with points earned in events designated as "Nationals", or points earned in Regional Tour events. In the past, BOTH weekly and regional points were allowed, but no more. Starting in 2008, drivers have to choose one or the other if they are running for the National Tour Championship.
Tobias feels this will open things up for drivers who compete in regions outside the northeast. For the past three seasons, the National Champion has come from the northeast (either the Mid-Atlantic or Empire Regions). Drivers from the Gulf Coast Region were at a disadvantage because they didn't have as many "Tour" races in which to earn points. Using just their weekly track points, along with points earned in the Nationals, will enable them to make a solid bid for the title.
"I believe this levels the playing field a bit," noted Tobias. "I feel we could definitely see a National Champion come from an area outside the northeast this year."
It's understandable why Rich would like to see a National Champion emerge from Georgia, Alabama, or Wisconsin. He (and his company, of course) build all the Slingers, and a champion who resides somewhere other than Pennsylvania or New York would be good for business.
Not that business is bad, mind you. Tobias and his crew are having trouble keeping up with all the orders for new cars, new bodies (there is a brand new Slingshot body that has been mandated for 2008 competition), and motors. Rich had to add some extra manpower just to manufacture all of the cars, bodies, and motors.
Word on the street is that older bodies will be allowed to start the season - as long as you've ordered a new one and are waiting for it.
For more information, log on to slingshotbytobias.com.
Paging through last week's issue of AARN got me to thinking...I'm gettin' old.
Not that I feel old, but I've come to the realization that I've been involved in the local racing scene for quite a while now, and I was 35 when I got started.
What brought me to this realization? The fact that I'm seeing drivers who I had the pleasure of introducing and writing about when they were just beginning their racing careers, now jumping into the so-called "big leagues" of auto racing. And I can provide some excellent examples...
In 2003 and 2004 I worked at the Mahoning Valley Speedway as the announcer and p.r. person. I remember a very young Kory Rabenold, from Slatington, Pa., winning races and a championship in the Four-Cylinder Stock Car division.
Kory and his parents, Buzzy and Pat, are great people. And Kory quickly displayed considerable talent behind the wheel of his black No. 63 Pinto.
Last week Rabenold, after some fairly rapid success in an asphalt modified followed that brief jaunt in Four-Cylinder competition, took to the superspeedway in Daytona. Kory attempted to qualify for the ARCA ReMax Series event. He timed 56th out of the 65 entries for that race, falling short in his quest to make the starting line-up. But the now 19-year old turned laps at Daytona!
Rabenold intends to compete in as many 2008 ARCA events as possible. For all the details on Kory's excellent adventure in Daytona, refer back to last week's AARN and read the terrific story written by Dino Oberto on page 21.
I remember watching Tom Hessert III blast around the local dirt ovals in a Micro-Sprint. The Cherry Hill, NJ wheel-twister then moved on to USAC Sprint Cars and Midgets. In 2005 and 2006, while I was working with the ARDC, Tom brought his MAACO sponsored midget to Susquehanna and Big Diamond to compete with our club when USAC had some breaks in their schedule.
Hessert ran well in those shows, finishing in the top five on a couple of occasions. And last weekend, Tom Hessert III qualified 11th for that ARCA race on the 2.5 mile superspeedway in Daytona.
But Hessert was not content to simply qualify well. Tommy ran in the top six during the early stages, then took the lead when the front-runners pitted on lap 20-something. Hessert proceeded to set the pace for 21 tours, holding off five-time Daytona winner Bobby Gerhart in the process.
Tom finally made his pitstop, which relegated him near the rear of the cars on the lead lap, but he roared back to finish sixth in his first career start with the Automobile Racing Club of America. ATTABOY, Tom Hessert!
Ryan Preece was just a little kid when I first met him. The ATQMRA midgets ran several races at Mahoning during the two years I worked there, and Ryan was steering 600cc Micro-Sprints at the time. He and his dad towed a Gary King creation, built for asphalt, to Mahoning to battle the TQ midgets on the quarter-mile. And Ryan, despite his youth, spanked the TQ's on a few occasions.
Preece is now buckling into those high-powered missiles they call asphalt modifieds. This week, he is competing in the 42nd Annual World Series of Asphalt Stock Car Racing at Florida's New Smyrna Speedway. He will also take part in this year's NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and, when his schedule permits, gas a Tim Bertrand-owned NEMA Midget at several of New England's pavement tracks.
Funny story about Ryan Preece: strolling through the pits at Mahoning one night, I stopped at Ryan's hauler to chat with him and his dad. During the conversation, I became very curious about Ryan's exact age. He looked like he should still be in elementary school.
I had to ask..."Ryan, just how old are you?"
Ryan stared back at me with a slight smile and a very quizzical look in his eyes. He didn't say anything, but his dad quickly jumped in with a response.
"How old would you like him to be? We have several different birth certificates in the truck," he explained, grinning.
I replied that I didn't care about his age, other than being curious. As long as it was okay with ATQMRA and Mahoning Valley Speedway, it didn't matter to me. But I thought Mr. Preece's answer was pretty comical.
By the way, Ryan was 12 (I think; or he could have been 14) at the time. His age then, as now, doesn't really matter because this kid's a real racer.
Finally, although I'm sure I could come up with additional examples, there is Pottstown, Pa.'s Bret Guzik.
For the past couple of seasons, Guzik has been throwing his 600cc Micro-Sprint into the corners at Lanco's Clyde Martin Memorial Speedway, along with appearances at other local race tracks. Bret notched his first career 600cc victory last summer at the Clyde, and he accumulated more heat race triumphs than anyone else in that class at Lanco.
This year, though, the youthful charger will climb into something much heavier, and much faster, than a 600. Bret Guzik is going from Micro-Sprints on dirt to Late Models on pavement. Bret will guide the Cat Iron Racing Chevrolet Monte Carlo on the NASCAR Whelen All American Series for asphalt late models.
Guzik has already tested his Monte Carlo at Hickory Motor Speedway in NC. He will return to Hickory for a two-day test session in March, just before Easter. Actual competition for Guzik will begin at the Lake Erie Speedway in northwestern Pennsylvania on May 24.
The Cat Iron team plans to venture out to Lake Erie for several shows, including those on June 7, 21, and 28. Bret will make about 12 to 15 events at Lake Erie this season, along with Whelen All American Series races at other venues.
Guzik's new ride can be seen at Motorama this weekend (at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, Pa), and at the upcoming Reading Racing Reunion from February 24th to March 2nd. The Reunion will be held, as always, at the Fairgrounds Square Mall in Muhlenberg Township. Both Motorama and the Reading Racing Reunion will also feature many "small cars", such as Micro-Sprints, Slingshots, Midgets, 600cc Modifieds, etc.
Guzik and his team have partnered with the Racing Against Drugs campaign. They will be handing out information and speaking on behalf of this program throughout the season, wherever the Cat Iron Racing Late Model signs in for action.
For additional information on Bret Guzik and his plans for '08, log on to bretguzikmotorsports.com.
These kids are makin' me feel old, but I wish them the very best as they set out to conquer new challenges in their racing careers.
**************************
More news from the Slingshot Banquet held on February 2nd...
Slingshot founder and Speedway Entertainment head honcho Rich Tobias addressed the banquet attendees after all of the awards had been distributed. Tobias admitted he was very proud of the Slingshot division (after all, he created it and watched it grow from nothing to the status it enjoys today, with cars and tracks and tours all over the USA), and he is very pleased with the fact that it is still growing.
Tobias disclosed that a new regional tour has been added for this season. The Great Lakes Region will debut in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Deer Creek Speedway in Wisconsin will host a National event, and there is talk of a two-day National taking place at that track in early September.
Rich and Mike Feltenberger have "tweaked" the point system for the National Tour. Drivers may now use their weekly track points, along with points earned in events designated as "Nationals", or points earned in Regional Tour events. In the past, BOTH weekly and regional points were allowed, but no more. Starting in 2008, drivers have to choose one or the other if they are running for the National Tour Championship.
Tobias feels this will open things up for drivers who compete in regions outside the northeast. For the past three seasons, the National Champion has come from the northeast (either the Mid-Atlantic or Empire Regions). Drivers from the Gulf Coast Region were at a disadvantage because they didn't have as many "Tour" races in which to earn points. Using just their weekly track points, along with points earned in the Nationals, will enable them to make a solid bid for the title.
"I believe this levels the playing field a bit," noted Tobias. "I feel we could definitely see a National Champion come from an area outside the northeast this year."
It's understandable why Rich would like to see a National Champion emerge from Georgia, Alabama, or Wisconsin. He (and his company, of course) build all the Slingers, and a champion who resides somewhere other than Pennsylvania or New York would be good for business.
Not that business is bad, mind you. Tobias and his crew are having trouble keeping up with all the orders for new cars, new bodies (there is a brand new Slingshot body that has been mandated for 2008 competition), and motors. Rich had to add some extra manpower just to manufacture all of the cars, bodies, and motors.
Word on the street is that older bodies will be allowed to start the season - as long as you've ordered a new one and are waiting for it.
For more information, log on to slingshotbytobias.com.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Where Are They Now??
Starting this week I will be showcasing drivers that have moved on from the slingshot division to further their racing careers.
Check back frequently for updated showcases.
If you know or happen to be a slingshot driver that has moved on feel free to email a profile with drivers name, hometown, accomplishments, driver/car photo and division currently planning on participating in.
Email to marc4jr88@aol.com
Thanks!
Check back frequently for updated showcases.
If you know or happen to be a slingshot driver that has moved on feel free to email a profile with drivers name, hometown, accomplishments, driver/car photo and division currently planning on participating in.
Email to marc4jr88@aol.com
Thanks!
Friday, February 8, 2008
2008 Hamlin Schedule - HAS BEEN POSTED!
The official 2008 Hamlin Speedway schedule has been posted! Check it out at www.HamlinSpeedway.com and click on the '08 Schedule page!
Are you ready?
Are you ready?
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Slingshot Banquet Attracts Long Distance Interest
Last Saturday night's Slingshot by Tobias Awards Banquet, held at the Holiday Inn in Grantville, Pa - about one mile from the site of the former Penn National Speedway - attracted a nice crowd of 170. And a few of those attendees were pretty far from home...
Eleven-year old Lucas Schott, from Chatfield, Minnesota, traveled to the banquet with his family. It was his second visit to the Keystone State, the first occurring in August of 2007 when Lucas and his little brother accompanied their father on a trip to compete in Slingshot Speedweek events. The youngster impressed many with his smooth driving style, along with his ability to stay out of trouble.Lucas was the co-track champion at his weekly track, the Tri Oval Speedway in Wisconsin, as well as the leading winner in last season's Junior Slingshot competition. During last Saturday's festivities in Grantville, Schott was named the Junior Slingshot Rookie of the Year.
Shawn "the Speedster" Cater, from Roopville, Georgia, was the other long distance traveler at the banquet. Cater earned recognition for being last year's Champion of the Gulf Coast Region, while his father, Jim, was nominated for Mechanic of the Year. That honor, by the way, went to Tommy Perrego.
After the awards ceremony, Shawn Cater reported that he will return to Pennsylvania in about six months. Cater plans to compete in this season's Slingshot Speedweek, and he's trying to recruit some of his fellow "Southern Slingers" to join him."I'm pretty sure Keith Achenbach is coming up for Speedweek, too. And we'd like to bring a car along for Keith's son, Chris, to drive. He's only 12, but man, is he good! I'm trying to get a few more of our guys to come up, too."
Cater explained why he's willing to tow his Slingshot all the way from Georgia. "These guys and girls up here are the best," he said, offering props to the northeastern group of Slingshot racers. "I really like it when they come down and race against us. They've been kickin' our butts when they show up, but we're gettin' better. We're gaining on them.""You gotta remember, "continued Cater, "they been runnin' 'em up here since '99. We've only been runnin' 'em for the past two years or so. That's why I like it when they come down south...I always learn a bunch of stuff from these boys."
As we spoke, Cater's eyes were focused on the Show-Car that was sitting on the banquet floor, with its sharp looking, new-for-'08 body style. He spent quite a bit of time studying the car, which was provided by Rich Tobias and Speedway Entertainment.
Keith Achenbach, who did not attend the banquet, is a Slingshot dealer from Winston, Georgia. He was nominated for Dealer of the Year (that award was presented to Oak Ridge Fabrications, a Wisconsin dealership, for their efforts in building the division from nothing and organizing a Great Lakes Regional Tour for 2008). Achenbach has aggressively promoted the Slingers in the Gulf Coast Region, most notably in Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee.
Ray Evernham's most recent signee, Billy VanInwegen, Jr., was firmly in the spotlight on Saturday. The 15-year old (that's right; he won't be able to get his driver's license until September), dressed as a champion should be, collected $1,200 as the National Slingshot Tour Champion. "Billy the Blast" also captured the Mid-Atlantic Region point title.The Sparrow Bush, NY teenager handles himself very well. He is very personable and easy-going...it's no wonder Evernham thinks highly of this kid. VanInwegen also sports a maturity that goes way beyond his 15 years...
Lindsey Billman, a friend of Billy's, was tragically killed when she fell through a skylight. In her honor, VanInwegen and his family started raising money, with a goal of funding a scholarship in Billman's name. A special raffle was held at the Slingshot banquet - the prize was a retired Longaberger basket - and the Lindsey Billman Scholarship Fund was enriched by almost $600.
VanInwegen is clearly a case of "the apple not falling far from the tree." His father, Bill Sr., is truly a class act. The Port Jervis, NY policeman has supported the Slingers for several years now, and he was nominated for the Sportsmanship Award. Even though that award went to Nate Christman and Dave McCullough (the vote ended in a tie), "Broadway Bill" received a loud ovation when he was introduced to the crowd as a nominee.
The Junior National Slingshot Champion is Nick Snyder. The young lion used consistency to win the title over Joseph Kata III. Snyder's No. 7 was in the thick of the battle at each Junior National Tour event, piling up enough points to overcome Kata, who had the most wins on the Junior Tour.
Kata is an enthusiastic 11-year old. He notched 12 feature wins in '07, three of them coming in Junior National Tour events at Oakland Valley, Middletown, and Greenwood Valley. He and his parents were very proud of the fact that Joseph triumphed in the very first Junior Slingshot race at the Orange County Fair Speedway. Kata was also the Junior point champion at the Oakland Valley Dirt Oval.He loves the Slingers, but Kata has plans to eventually jump up to racecars that produce more horsepower. When asked about his racing goals, he looked at his dad and said, "Oh, maybe the Young Guns 390 Micro-Sprints?" To which Joseph II replied, "I was thinking more along the lines of Rich's new SpeedSTR midgets." The younger Kata smiled approvingly over that proposition.
I thought this was interesting...as I introduced the Junior National Top Ten, I noticed that half of the youthful chauffeurs were female. I think that's pretty cool.
Marc Daniels, the Iceman, ended the racing season as the Linda's Speedway Slingshot Champion, the Speedweek Champion, and he was also involved in a torrid three-way battle for the Hamlin Speedway championship. A couple of National Tour victories placed him fourth in the final standings for that series.
At the banquet, though, Daniels pointed out that he won't return to defend his titles this year. Instead, he is concentrating on helping Shannon Smith win races and championships. "I want to help Shannon win the Linda's title now," he noted. With Shannon's dad, Randy Smith, tied up in track preparations at Hamlin on Friday nights, Daniels offered to haul her Slinger to Linda's and act as crew chief at the Jonestown oval. "I might run a few races in one of Randy's cars," stated the Iceman. "But I'm done as a weekly racer."
Daniels, a carpenter by trade, now operates a vinyl graphics business on the side called Vinyl Visions. And, with assistance from Darin Bartholomew, he started a web site titled StrictlySlingshots.com. He's definitely not walking away from racing; he's just climbing out of the driver's seat.
Shannon's brother, Ryan Smith, is getting ready to head to Florida to do some 600cc Micro-Sprint racing. Ryan, the 2007 ARDC Rookie of the Year, is also anxious for another season of wingless midget competition.
The Z-Man, Zach O'Connell, is really pumped up for the '08 campaign. Zach and his team were given the Best Appearing Car Award during Saturday's banquet, and he will return with his beautiful No. 327 when the new season gets underway.O'Connell is stoked about a new opportunity, too. Sometime this summer, he will strap into a 305 Sprint Car. We'll have more on this young charger in an upcoming column.
On a personal note, I want to thank Rich Tobias and Mike Feltenberger of Speedway Entertainment for asking me to emcee the Slingshot Banquet. I knew it would be a lot of fun, and the affair was even better than I expected. Even the "heckling" from Randy Smith (I guess I should have expected that) added to the evening's fun-filled atmosphere.
I am also extremely appreciative of being named, at the banquet, as the 2007 Writer of the Year. It was an awesome feeling just to be picked as a nominee for the award, joining such esteemed colleagues as Kyle Hardner and Randy Kane of AARN, along with John Levan of OpenWheelRacers.com. My heartfelt thanks goes out to everyone who voted.
More news from the Slingshot Banquet will appear in next week's column.
Eleven-year old Lucas Schott, from Chatfield, Minnesota, traveled to the banquet with his family. It was his second visit to the Keystone State, the first occurring in August of 2007 when Lucas and his little brother accompanied their father on a trip to compete in Slingshot Speedweek events. The youngster impressed many with his smooth driving style, along with his ability to stay out of trouble.Lucas was the co-track champion at his weekly track, the Tri Oval Speedway in Wisconsin, as well as the leading winner in last season's Junior Slingshot competition. During last Saturday's festivities in Grantville, Schott was named the Junior Slingshot Rookie of the Year.
Shawn "the Speedster" Cater, from Roopville, Georgia, was the other long distance traveler at the banquet. Cater earned recognition for being last year's Champion of the Gulf Coast Region, while his father, Jim, was nominated for Mechanic of the Year. That honor, by the way, went to Tommy Perrego.
After the awards ceremony, Shawn Cater reported that he will return to Pennsylvania in about six months. Cater plans to compete in this season's Slingshot Speedweek, and he's trying to recruit some of his fellow "Southern Slingers" to join him."I'm pretty sure Keith Achenbach is coming up for Speedweek, too. And we'd like to bring a car along for Keith's son, Chris, to drive. He's only 12, but man, is he good! I'm trying to get a few more of our guys to come up, too."
Cater explained why he's willing to tow his Slingshot all the way from Georgia. "These guys and girls up here are the best," he said, offering props to the northeastern group of Slingshot racers. "I really like it when they come down and race against us. They've been kickin' our butts when they show up, but we're gettin' better. We're gaining on them.""You gotta remember, "continued Cater, "they been runnin' 'em up here since '99. We've only been runnin' 'em for the past two years or so. That's why I like it when they come down south...I always learn a bunch of stuff from these boys."
As we spoke, Cater's eyes were focused on the Show-Car that was sitting on the banquet floor, with its sharp looking, new-for-'08 body style. He spent quite a bit of time studying the car, which was provided by Rich Tobias and Speedway Entertainment.
Keith Achenbach, who did not attend the banquet, is a Slingshot dealer from Winston, Georgia. He was nominated for Dealer of the Year (that award was presented to Oak Ridge Fabrications, a Wisconsin dealership, for their efforts in building the division from nothing and organizing a Great Lakes Regional Tour for 2008). Achenbach has aggressively promoted the Slingers in the Gulf Coast Region, most notably in Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee.
Ray Evernham's most recent signee, Billy VanInwegen, Jr., was firmly in the spotlight on Saturday. The 15-year old (that's right; he won't be able to get his driver's license until September), dressed as a champion should be, collected $1,200 as the National Slingshot Tour Champion. "Billy the Blast" also captured the Mid-Atlantic Region point title.The Sparrow Bush, NY teenager handles himself very well. He is very personable and easy-going...it's no wonder Evernham thinks highly of this kid. VanInwegen also sports a maturity that goes way beyond his 15 years...
Lindsey Billman, a friend of Billy's, was tragically killed when she fell through a skylight. In her honor, VanInwegen and his family started raising money, with a goal of funding a scholarship in Billman's name. A special raffle was held at the Slingshot banquet - the prize was a retired Longaberger basket - and the Lindsey Billman Scholarship Fund was enriched by almost $600.
VanInwegen is clearly a case of "the apple not falling far from the tree." His father, Bill Sr., is truly a class act. The Port Jervis, NY policeman has supported the Slingers for several years now, and he was nominated for the Sportsmanship Award. Even though that award went to Nate Christman and Dave McCullough (the vote ended in a tie), "Broadway Bill" received a loud ovation when he was introduced to the crowd as a nominee.
The Junior National Slingshot Champion is Nick Snyder. The young lion used consistency to win the title over Joseph Kata III. Snyder's No. 7 was in the thick of the battle at each Junior National Tour event, piling up enough points to overcome Kata, who had the most wins on the Junior Tour.
Kata is an enthusiastic 11-year old. He notched 12 feature wins in '07, three of them coming in Junior National Tour events at Oakland Valley, Middletown, and Greenwood Valley. He and his parents were very proud of the fact that Joseph triumphed in the very first Junior Slingshot race at the Orange County Fair Speedway. Kata was also the Junior point champion at the Oakland Valley Dirt Oval.He loves the Slingers, but Kata has plans to eventually jump up to racecars that produce more horsepower. When asked about his racing goals, he looked at his dad and said, "Oh, maybe the Young Guns 390 Micro-Sprints?" To which Joseph II replied, "I was thinking more along the lines of Rich's new SpeedSTR midgets." The younger Kata smiled approvingly over that proposition.
I thought this was interesting...as I introduced the Junior National Top Ten, I noticed that half of the youthful chauffeurs were female. I think that's pretty cool.
Marc Daniels, the Iceman, ended the racing season as the Linda's Speedway Slingshot Champion, the Speedweek Champion, and he was also involved in a torrid three-way battle for the Hamlin Speedway championship. A couple of National Tour victories placed him fourth in the final standings for that series.
At the banquet, though, Daniels pointed out that he won't return to defend his titles this year. Instead, he is concentrating on helping Shannon Smith win races and championships. "I want to help Shannon win the Linda's title now," he noted. With Shannon's dad, Randy Smith, tied up in track preparations at Hamlin on Friday nights, Daniels offered to haul her Slinger to Linda's and act as crew chief at the Jonestown oval. "I might run a few races in one of Randy's cars," stated the Iceman. "But I'm done as a weekly racer."
Daniels, a carpenter by trade, now operates a vinyl graphics business on the side called Vinyl Visions. And, with assistance from Darin Bartholomew, he started a web site titled StrictlySlingshots.com. He's definitely not walking away from racing; he's just climbing out of the driver's seat.
Shannon's brother, Ryan Smith, is getting ready to head to Florida to do some 600cc Micro-Sprint racing. Ryan, the 2007 ARDC Rookie of the Year, is also anxious for another season of wingless midget competition.
The Z-Man, Zach O'Connell, is really pumped up for the '08 campaign. Zach and his team were given the Best Appearing Car Award during Saturday's banquet, and he will return with his beautiful No. 327 when the new season gets underway.O'Connell is stoked about a new opportunity, too. Sometime this summer, he will strap into a 305 Sprint Car. We'll have more on this young charger in an upcoming column.
On a personal note, I want to thank Rich Tobias and Mike Feltenberger of Speedway Entertainment for asking me to emcee the Slingshot Banquet. I knew it would be a lot of fun, and the affair was even better than I expected. Even the "heckling" from Randy Smith (I guess I should have expected that) added to the evening's fun-filled atmosphere.
I am also extremely appreciative of being named, at the banquet, as the 2007 Writer of the Year. It was an awesome feeling just to be picked as a nominee for the award, joining such esteemed colleagues as Kyle Hardner and Randy Kane of AARN, along with John Levan of OpenWheelRacers.com. My heartfelt thanks goes out to everyone who voted.
More news from the Slingshot Banquet will appear in next week's column.
Monday, February 4, 2008
New Link on Strictly Slingshots Home Page
On the home page of this site there is a new link that is being updated as the information comes in. This will give you the opportunity to have a direct link to individual tracks schedules that run slingshots for planning your weekly venues.
We are striving to make all visits to our site as easy as possible by taking the time to link every track together as quickly as possible for your one stop "shop" for information.
On the news side, a personal invitation has or will be emailed to individual tracks and/or promoters by strictly slingshots for posting of track news, full race results, schedule changes and special events.
Soon this site will enjoy articles from Barry Angstadt , Steve Pados any many more, reputable writers.
Check back frequently and
Enjoy!
We are striving to make all visits to our site as easy as possible by taking the time to link every track together as quickly as possible for your one stop "shop" for information.
On the news side, a personal invitation has or will be emailed to individual tracks and/or promoters by strictly slingshots for posting of track news, full race results, schedule changes and special events.
Soon this site will enjoy articles from Barry Angstadt , Steve Pados any many more, reputable writers.
Check back frequently and
Enjoy!
Hosting Go-karts, Slingshots, and 270cc Micro Sprints every Saturday Night!
AND DON.T FORGET....
"YOU AIN'T SEEN NOTHING YET"!
Pre-Season Meeting
Sunday, February 24th, 2008
3pm at S&S Speedways
(570) 420-5500
Want to race with the best drivers,
on the best track, with the best payout?
Then Race at Hamlin.
YOU.VE RACED WITH THE REST,
NOW RACE WITH THE BEST!
Racing every Saturday, April through September including Kid
karts, Restricted Junior Champs, Briggs lights, mediums, heavy
and super heavy.s, Winged Pros Champs, Junior Slingshots,
Regular Slingshots, SUPER SLINGERS! and 270cc Micro Sprints!
• The Hamlin Speedway 2008 Rulebook will be available online prior to
the meeting.
• Bring your suggestions, questions, and concerns for discussion!
• Reserve Season Parking Spots for $50
• Fill out your 1099 tax form to get your payouts
• Fill out all minor release forms and get the Hamlin Minor Cards
Directions: Business Route 209, Snydersville, PA
From New Jersey I-80 West: I-80 West to Exit 304 Rte 209 S. Turn right at first traffic light at Shaffer
School House Road. Travel to next traffic light & turn left on to Bus. 209 . S&S is 1/2 mile on left.
From Lehigh Valley Area Rte 33 North: Rte 33 North to first traffic light at Shaffer School House Road.
Turn left off highway, travel to next traffic light & turn left on to Bus. 209, and S&S is 1/2 mile on left.
From Hazleton Area I-80 East: I-80 East to exit 302A, Rte 33 South, to Bus. 209, Snydersville exit (2.5
miles). Take left on Bus. 209 towards Stroudsburg & S&S is 1-½ miles on the right.
Additional Parking will be available across the street at Stroud Motor Sports
Friday, February 1, 2008
2008 Hamlin Drivers!
To all Hamlin Speedway Drivers -
In preparation for the upcoming 2008 season - Jim Young has expanded the Hamlin News Page to include a driver profile section. This information will be used for all PR work including Steve Pados announcing, webpage postings, and Press Releases to Area Auto Racing News! Plus the information is JUST FUN!
All Drivers Please Fill Out Your Profile ASAP! Go to www.HamlinSpeedway.com and click on the "Drivers" button and page down to the profile information boxes. When completed with your information - email it for publication to the Hamlin Driver profiles. To view - click on one of the 3 sections to see your favorite driver info!
This is a great opportunity to plug your SPONSORS for the 2008 season!
Denise L Smith
http://www.hamlinspeedway.com/
http://www.ssspeedways.com/
http://www.ryansmithracing.com/
In preparation for the upcoming 2008 season - Jim Young has expanded the Hamlin News Page to include a driver profile section. This information will be used for all PR work including Steve Pados announcing, webpage postings, and Press Releases to Area Auto Racing News! Plus the information is JUST FUN!
All Drivers Please Fill Out Your Profile ASAP! Go to www.HamlinSpeedway.com and click on the "Drivers" button and page down to the profile information boxes. When completed with your information - email it for publication to the Hamlin Driver profiles. To view - click on one of the 3 sections to see your favorite driver info!
This is a great opportunity to plug your SPONSORS for the 2008 season!
Denise L Smith
http://www.hamlinspeedway.com/
http://www.ssspeedways.com/
http://www.ryansmithracing.com/
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