Walmart Has Great Deal for Pocono and Much More for NASCAR Fans

  I will be the first to admit I had my doubts about the Walmart 4-pack specials for NASCAR Sprint Cup races you see advertised seemingly eveywhere, including on this blog from time to time. However, I decided to click on the link and check it out for myself. What I found was pretty impressive.
  The Walmart site doesn't just contain a page to buy the ticket package. It also has a vast array of NASCAR products, everything from clothing to toys. It also has a link to NASCAR happenings in your area, and a list of upcoming NASCAR show car appearances.
  The package seems like a great deal, especially for a family of four or perhaps two individual parents with a child each. The site is pretty cool also, so even if you're not interested in buying any race tickets to Pocono next weekennd, you might want to check it out.
  I'm not a paid endorser of Walmart, I wish, but I have provided a link below to check it out.
Walmart Pocono ticket package

New Jersey Race Winners From Saturday Night

New Egypt Speedway:
  "Friends of Mike" 100-lap feature: Tim McCreadie
  Sportsman: Pat Wall
  Outlaw Stocks: Mick Search

Wall Stadium:
  Sportsman: Eric Mauriello
  Factory Stock first feature: Jim Downey
  Factory Stock second feature: Steve West
  Legends: Zach Alspach
  TQ Midget: Buddy Sloed Jr.

Bridgeport Speedway:
  Bridgeport Modifieds: Ryan Watt
  Outlaw Stocks: Jeremy Doerr

  Congratulations to this week's winners in New Jersey. Look for a more complete recap of several of the events in the next few days.

Official NASCARMedia Pictures From Modified Tour Race at Riverhead

 
  The second picture is my favorite, few things more beautiful than a full field of NASCAR Modifieds coming to the green. The winning car of Justin Bosignore is pretty sharp too!

First Time Winner on NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, Jersey Driver Has Good Run

  The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour saw a first time winner on Saturday at Riverhead Speedway. Justin Bosignore, who was the 2010 Sunoco Rookie of the Year in the division, brought home his first win by leading 158 laps. The win was extra special for Justin as it came at what he considers his home track, Riverhead. He is currently second in points in the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series Modified Division there.
  The rest of the top ten was as follows:
2) Todd Szegedy
3) Ron Silk
4) Ryan Preece
5) Doug Coby
6) Rowan Pennink
7) Jamie Tomaino
8) Patrick Emerling
9) Bobby Santos
10) Richie Pallai
  On the Jersey side of things, what a great run for Jamie Tomaino and his Supreme Manufacturing Chevrolet team. They have had a rough couple of years, and maybe a run like they had yesterday will help them get their program turned around. 

Flemington Speedway Race Cars and Drivers to Appear at Warren County Fair Sunday

  The 74th annual Warren County Farmers Fair will host it's "Dirt Track Heroes Day" on Sunday Jully 31st. The Flemington Speedway Historical Society will be bringing not only race cars from the track's past, but also drivers to the fair.
  The drivers scheduled to appear include Billy Pauch, Frankie Schneider, Sammy Beavers, Willie Osmun, Billy Osmun, Carl Van Horn, and others. Drivers will be meeting with fans throughout the day from 10am to 7pm. There will also be track memorabilia on display at well.
  There are few things better than a country fair, and even less than one that features race cars, and some of the greatest drivers to ever pilot a car in New Jersey. This would make a great start to the day, before you settle in to watch the Brickyard 400.
  The fair is located on Rt. 519, three miles north of Phillipsburg.

Qualifying Results Brickyard 400 at Indy for NASCAR Sprint Cup

  Qualifying for the Brickyard 400 has just concluded, and the top ten are:
1) David Ragan
2) Kasey Kahne
3) Jimmy Johnson
4) Kurt Busch
5) Brad Keselowski
6) A J Allmendinger
7) Juan Pablo Montoya
8) Jeff Gordon
9) Matt Kenseth
10) Carl Edwards
Other notables:
19) Kevin Harvick
22) Dale Earnhardt Jr.
24) Tony Stewart
29) Kyle Busch
30) Martin Truex Jr.

Travis Pastrana Injury Doesn't Open Door for Truex at Indy, How About Future Dates?

  When Travis Pastrana suffered his injury during X-Games competition, it meant an end to his hopes of racing the Boost Mobile number 99 Toyota at Lucas Oil Raceway in the NASCAR Nationwide race on Saturday. The initial speculation was perhaps Ryan Truex, who had driven the car earlier this year, would step in and attempt to qualify the car.
  The Pstrana/Waltrip Race team decided, however, to just pack up and head back home. Their sponsor, Boost Mobile, has agreed to delay the debut of Pastrana.
  While this doesn't bust open the door for Ryan Truex to return to the seat of the number 99, it certainly cracks it open a little. The injury of Pastrana will almost certainly prevent him from attempting to race a stock car any time soon, maybe even delaying it until 2012.
  Meanwhile, there is a quality race car and race team just sitting on the sidelines. This could give Truex the opportunity, if he can find a sponsor, to make some additional starts in 2011.
  While no driver likes to see another suffer an injury, they, also, need to be prepared when an opportunity presents itself. With Pastrana originally scheduled to be in the car, Truex, didn't have a ride to bring a sponsor to. That has all changed now, let's hope the young Jersey driver can take advantage of it.  

Dale Earnhardt Diecast Never Before Available

  As a member of the NASCARMedia, I get emails that just don't seem to make their way to many people, but I feel might hold some interest to my readers. Today, I got one such email, regarding a diecast currently being made available by Lionel NASCAR Collectibles.
  The car is a 1978 Ford Torino sponsored by Cardinal Tractor, and driven by Dale Earnhardt at Charlotte Motor Speedway on May 28th of 1978. It is the first Ford he ever drove, and the first car he took to a top ten finish, in what is now Sprint Cup, at the Firecracker 400 at Daytona, later that year.

Check out the details here

Danny Serrano a Racing God?

  I have often wondered when people have spoke of the "Racing Gods", who exactly were they speaking of. Were these the former greats of racing who have since passed to the great short tracks in the sky? Are they looking down on us, controlling the weather, or providing us with a well-timed caution flag, making the race even more exciting?
  Perhaps the "Racing Gods" are the top executives of NASCAR, they certainly seem to think they control motorsports in general, and they are good at throwing a caution when the race needs one. They can't, however, control the weather, so I guess they aren't the gods they often think they are, afterall.
  One look out the window, this morning, made me think, maybe I do know a 'Racing God". His name is Danny Serrano, and even though I don't think he can control the weather, he none-the-less, is looking pretty god-like today.
  You see, today is the annual "Friends of Mike" race at New Egypt Speedway, and Danny Serrano is greatly responsible for this event. He has put together a winner's purse of $20,000, and an entry list of drivers that I truly feel rivals the starting lineup for this weekend's Brickyard 400 in Sprint Cup. He also managed to arrange for a beautiful day for racing, maybe he is a "Racing God".
  While many will salute the general manager of New Egypt tonight for the great race he has put together, to me that is not what gives him his "Racing God" status. What does is he is doing this as a tribute to a good friend he lost too early, and for his overwhelming love for the sport of autoracing. That is what makes him both special as a person, and as a promoter to a fan like me.
  Thank you Danny, and God Bless you Mike for allowing us to truly get to see what this special man can do.

Wall Stadium Cancels Late Models This Saturday

  Wall Stadium had plans to bring it's fans a different type of race car than the one's normally in competition on Saturday nights, for the second week in a row. Last week the Jersey Shore speedway brought the Tobias SpeesdSTR's to the high-banked oval for the first time. The track management had planned to bring Late Models to the speedway this Saturday.
  However, due to a lack of cars, the decision was made to cancel their appearance. This was probably the right choice over presenting their fans a feature consisting of only a few cars, and not good racing.
  The track still has plenty of action scheduled, especially for those who are fans of small cars. The American Three Quarter Midgets will be on hand to run their "Tony Romit Memorial" race. They will be joined by the Microstocks which will also be running a memorial race in honor of Jack Bellinato.
  While the Wall Modifieds will be off for the night, the Blewett Recycling Sportsman cars, Inex Legend Cars, and United Crane Factory Stocks, which will run twin 25-lap features, are all on the schedule.
  The Garden State VintageStock Car Club will also be on hand for what the speedway is calling "Pirate Night", with scavenger hunts planned throughout the night for the kids.

Pastrana Injured at X-Games Truex Back in 99 for Indy?

  Travis Pastrana was injured tonight while competing in the Moto-X final at the X-Games. He suffered a foot injury and is currently undergoing x-rays.
  Pastrana had quite an ambitious schedule planned for this weekend which included his debut in the NASCAR Nationwide Series at Lucas Oil Speedway(IRP), in the Boost Mobile number 99.
  The Pastrana/Waltrip Racing Toyota was driven earlier this year by New Jersey native Ryan Truex. We have to wonder if the younger Truex will get another chance behind the wheel should Pastrana not be able to race.

Wall Stadium to Start This Weekend's Events on Friday

  While most race fans in New Jersey are familiar with Wall Stadium's weekly Saturday night of racing, many don't seem to know, or remember their "Cruise Nights", the last Friday of every month. If you are one of those who have never made your way to the track for one, or you just love seeing classic cars, hot rods, and race cars, then be sure to make note of this Friday.
  The "Friday Night Cruise Night", at Wall Stadium, gets underway at 5pm, this Friday, July 29th. All types of cars, classics, hot rods, and custom cars will be on display in the paved pit area of the speedway. They will be joined by several of the race cars which compete at the track most weekends. Spectators will be able to walk around and check out these great machines while enjoying music played over the p.a. system, and enjoying food available at the concession stands.
  Those bringing show cars to the event will even be allowed to take a lap around the high-banked speedway, led by a pace car.
  Perhaps the best part of the evening is that it is all free. This is a great way to enjoy a Friday evening as we anticipate another great Saturday night of racing at our favorite Jersey short track. The weather should be good so don't miss out on a nice, and affordable night at Wall Stadium.

Real Racing Collectibles and Antique Gas Pumps in Estate Sale

  I know this is a blog about racing in New Jersey, but I just had to share this estate sale with you. It is the contents of 2 pole barns, a 4 car garage, and complete house. What makes it truly appealing, however, is the racing collectibles, antique gas pumps, and even carousel horses. There are even tools, toolboxes, and a tractor.
  The sale is listed on NJ Yard Sale Search, click the link below for the post which includes a link to pics and details. This is some really nice, cool, stuff.

NJ Yard Sale Search

Help Further a Young Racer's Dream

  Shannon Conner was a very talented racecar driver from New Jersey, especially in the paved era of Flemington Speedway. He was a track champion, and winner of the Street Stock division Race of Champions, quite a fete for a New Jersey driver, back then.
  When Flemington Speedway announced it's plans to close, Shannon packed up and headed South to North Carolina. While he never managed to land his dream job of driving a competitive car in one of NASCAR's top series, he did go on to become a fabricator for, and member of, several championship winning teams in the sport.
  Shannon, and his family, are now looking to further that same racing dream for their son Kodie. The young man is certainly talented, as he managed 2 wins, and several top-5's, at Charlotte Motor Speedway so far this summer. In fact, his father feels he has much more talent than he ever had, especially at his age.
  What makes Kodie's performance even more impressive is that most times he finds himself racing against much more well financed teams. Many of the teams have some relationship to at least one professional NASCAR team, even Sprint Cup teams.
  Shannon is now looking for individuals or companies interested in sponsoring Kodie for the upcoming Nationals at Kentucky Motor Speedway in August. Anyone who is interested should contact them at racecityraceway@aol.com.
  No donation is too small, and wouldn't it feel good to give towards helping a youngster achieve their dream, especially when it is racing related. Let's help Kodie Conner go to Kentucky, and possibly see that number 45 in victory lane again, just like his dad did years ago at Flemington. 

Friends of Mike Match Race Field Announced

  After more than 500 votes by fans at New Egypt Speedway, between more than 75 drivers, the field of 5 track regulars, and 5 "outsiders" has been announced for this Saturday's match races to be held during the "Friends of Mike" night.

The top 5 New Egypt regulars vote getters were:
1) Jimmy Horton
2) Billy Pauch
3) Rick Laubach
4) Ron John Koczon
5) Bob Drayton

The top 5 "outsiders" were:
1) Danny Johnson
2) Matt Sheppard
3) Ryan Godown
4) Jeff Strunk
5) Billy Decker

The two alternates are Wade Hendrickson and Craig Von Dohren.

The two drivers turning the fastest laps during qualifying will also earn a spot in the match races.

  These races might be worth the price of admission alone, and yet there is still the 100-lap feature. WOW!  

Motorsports Night at Monmouth County Fair

  The very popular Monmouth County Fair returns this Wednesday, and one of the attractions of opening night will be race cars. While the fair will feature it's usual great food, rides, pig races, and fireworks, Wednesday is the only night you will get to see many of the cars and drivers that compete regularly at Wall Stadium on the fair grounds.
  There will also be several NASCAR show cars available for up-close inspection, and photo opportunities. A race simulator is also scheduled to be on-hand.
  The fair opens at 5pm and runs until 11pm. Admission is $7, while children 12 and under are admitted free. Parking is also free.
  Wednesday night will also see an appearance by Mr. Met from 7-9pm, and, also, pay-one-price ride all the rides, all night long for $18.

Okerson Remembers Gastelu and Willis in Victory Lane at Wall Stadium

  Chas Okerson is the defending Modified Champion at Wall Stadium. After he won the feature event last night, he became a champion of another sort to me, and many others with his words in victory lane.
  Okerson was clearly thinking of others when he said, "I do want to dedicate this win to both Ray Gastelu and Jim Willis. Ray passed away a little over ten years ago, and Jim died just over a year ago. They were great friends, and racers, so I wanted to be sure to mention them."
  While I didn't know Ray Gastelu personally, I did get to see him race, and know he was an incredible competitor. I have also heard many stories of how quick Ray was to offer a helping hand, or advice to many of his fellow competitors, and those just getting started in the sport.
  Jim Willis, on the other hand, I considered a friend. I was lucky enough to be let into his world when I joined the Jamie Wolf Motorsports team, not long after Jim and Jamie decided to combine their efforts. We spent countless hours at the shops, and traveling with both the Race of Champions Tour and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour.
  While serious about his racing, I will always remeber Jim as the entertainer of not only us, but just about anyone he came into contact with. He was easy going, and quite the prankster outside the race car. Behind the wheel he was super competitive.
  In fact, I don't think Jim's talent as a driver was ever really appreciated. I was at Thompson Speedway for a Tour race, where Jim was running solidly in the top-five, until he came upon a lapped car which pinched him to the wall, resulting in the orange number 62 barrel rolling down the remainder of the straightaway, coming to rest between turns one and two. Who knows what could of been that day.
  I was also with Jim and the Wolf Motorsports number 11 at Oswego for the Race of Champions, where after overcoming a provisional starting spot, and a 160 lb. gas man, me, he almost won the biggest race in Modified racing. He was the fastest car on the track, and closing on the lead with every lap, until he was taken out by a car that had been black flagged, yet continued on.
  Most of all, I will remember Jim for his great sense of humor, and big smile. As far as I'm concerned the world got a little dimmer when we lost Jim Willis.
  Congrats, Chas, on not only your win at Wall, but also for making sure we all took a little time out of our hectic lives to remember two people who made our worlds a better place for the short time we shared it with them. 

Ganassi and Pruett Lead List of NJ Weekend Race Winners

  The list of winners, this weekend, of races run in New Jersey reads like a who's who of motorsports. Check it out.

Rolex Grand-Am: Scott Pruett, driving a Chip Ganassi car
Continental Tire: Jack Roush Jr., son of Jack Roush
New Egypt Speedway: Jimmy Horton, former NASCAR Sprint Cup and ARCA driver
Wall Stadium: Chas Okerson, defending track champion
Bridgeport Speedway: The Heat, no not the team Lebron James plays for, the 100 degree temperature being felt across the Garden State. 

Pennsylvania Underdog Wins Race of Champions in Oswego

  While he is a very talented driver, certainly there are not many who would of picked a certain driver from Bath, Pennsylvania to win, perhaps, the biggest Modified race of the year. Yet not only did he win it, but he did it in somewhat dominant fashion.
  Zane Zeiner, captured the 61st running of the Race of Champions at Oswego Speedway. He led a total of 42 laps of the 200 lap event, picking up a good portion of the lap money in addition to the $10,000 purse. He also had to hold off the pre-race favorite, Tony Hirschman, over the closing laps to secure the win.
  The rest of the top five consisted of Erick Rudolph, Lee Shrewood, and Jimmy Zacharias.
  Congratulations Zane !

Before and After Pics of Jamie Wolf's Number 11 at Oswego

It's gonna be a long ride back to Jersey !

Son of NASCAR Legend Wins in New Jersey

  This weekend in New Jersey there is more racing action going on than at just the usual spots. While New Egypt, Bridgeport, and Wall all ran their usual Saturday night shows, there was also racing action going on at New Jersey Motorsports Park.
  The Rolex Grand-Am series is competing there this weekend, and brought with it several supporting series. It is in one, the Continental Tire Sports Car Series, that a name very familiar to NASCAR fans got a win in the Garden State today.
  Jack Roush Jr., son of the legendary NASCAR car owner, took home his third win of the season with Billy Johnson in the B+ Foundation Heroes 200 event.
  I am really surprised by the lack of press this race weekend is getting here in New Jersey. Not only are there names very familiar to race fans, like Boris Said, and Scott Pruett, but also a Hollywood star in Patrick Dempsey.

Jamie Wolf Number 11 Car Takes Hard Hit at Oswego ROC !

  I just stumbled upon these pictures of the Jamie Wolf number 11 car on Facebook. The car was being driven by Rick Kluth, who is, thankfully ok, in this year's version of the Race of Champions at Oswego. This was obviously a hard hit !

Gil Hearne to Finally Get the Legends Night He Deserves

  Local asphalt racing legend, Gil Hearne, was really looking forward to the "Legends" night a few weeks ago at Wall Stadium. Hearne is very much a people-person, who, the first time you talk to him will make you feel as if you have been friends for years. He couldn't wait to talk racing, and share stories with the other drivers to be honored that night, as well as the fans.
  Those plans came to an abrupt halt when his son Jason was involved in a dispute with the track, and the decision was made to race elsewhere. Gil, made the decision that family comes first and decided to support his son's racing efforts rather than attend Wall.
  The decision bothered Gil since he knew it meant he would be unable to speak with the many fans who were looking forward to his appearance. In fact, he was so bothered he took out an ad in Area Auto Racing News, apologizing and giving his fans a way to either talk with him or get autographs.
  The racing gods must have been upset, as well, since thanks to a change in his son's racing schedule, Gil, will finally be getting the respect he deserves. New Egypt Speedway will be holding it's own "Legends' night this Saturday. While many of the drivers being honored are from the dirt side of things, the track will also be honoring several drivers from it's asphalt days.
  Gil Hearne became a late addition to Tony Siscone, John Blewett Jr., and Harold Dauncey, as a returning asphalt legend. He will be participating in the meet and greet during intermission, where he will finally get the respect he should have got at the Wall Stadium event.
  Funny thing is, for Gil, this isn't all about him. It's just another chance for him to be around the people he truly enjoys. Fellow racers and friends from his era. I'm sure the stories will go on well into the night, and Gil will have a big smile on his face, much like the one he put on his fan's faces for years.
  Congratulation to all the legends.  

Bridgeport Speedway Results for Wednesday The Jam Event

  Bridgeport Speedway presented it's mid-week show "The Jam" this Wednesday, after having the event postponed on Tuesday. The wait was well worth it for Duane Howard who managed to sweep both 25-lap features and take home a $1,000 bonus. This brought his total earnings for the night to $6,500.
 The top-five in the first 25-lapper following Howard was:
2) Chad James
3) Wade Hendrickson
4) Rick Laubach
5) Richie Pratt Jr.
  The finishing order in the second feature, which was the previously postponed Wingate Classic, behind Howard was:
2) Jimmy Horton
3) Rick Laubach
4) Ryan Watt
5) Wade Hendrickson

Ryan Newman's Modified Win Stripped, Bono Manion Suspended

  NASCAR, after closely examining the engine in Ryan Newman's winning Modified, has stipped the win from the number 7NY team. While it was initially thought the car failed inspection due to a leaky gasket, that wasn't the case at all.
  The engine, built by Earnhardt/Ganassi Racing, was found to have illegal gaskets containing shims. Whether car owner, Bono Manion, who is the crewchief on Jamie Mcmurray's EGR car number 1, was aware of the parts being in the engine is unclear.
  What is clear, and swift, was NASCAR's penalty. Manion, and car chief Gary Putnam, have both been suspended for the remainder of the year from any NASCAR Touring Series events. This will certainly mean the absence of the 7NY team at both Bristol, and the next New Hampshire race. 

Bridgeport Speedway to Run Twin-25's for Big-Blocks Tonight

  If you thought you missed all the racing action at Bridgeport Speedway, last night, you are wrong. The Jam, which was scheduled for Tuesday July 19th, has been postponed to tonight.
  The South Jersey speedway will play host to not one, but two 25-lap Big-Block Modified features. The first is the previously postponed Wingate Classic, which will pay the winner a purse of $3,000. The Big-Blocks will then compete in another 25-lap feature, with this one worth $2,500 to the winner.
  Bridgeport Speedway is also offering a bonus to any driver, who should be able to win both features, of $1,000. This makes the night a potential $6,500 payday for the drivers competing.
  Spectator gates open at 5:30pm, with racing getting underway at 7:30pm. Adult admission is $20 and children 12 and under are free.
  For more info check the track's website at http://www.bpspeedway.com/

New Egypt Speedway and Pauch Know How to Get it Done

  I finally managed to get out to New Egypt Speedway, this past Saturday night. While it was my first visit of the year to the dirt track, located not far from Great Adventure Amusement Park, it was the first visit ever for my four year old son. Needless to say to anyone who attends this track regularly, both the track and Billy Pauch know how to get it done.
  In years past, spectators had to park outside turn one and walk all the way around to the front entrance of the track. However, they have, smartly, added an entrance on this side of the track, where as long as you're paying cash, you can access the grandstands here rather than having the long walk.
  Once inside the track, the action is seemlessly never-ending right up until intermission. Whatever race is up next, the cars are line up on the infield, ready to go. In fact, if you were to turn away as one heat race finishes and another begins, you may not even realize there was a whole new group of cars on the track.
  The officials and track crew also do an incredible job. The track most times was clear of damaged cars, before the first yellow flag lap was completed. The competitors, themselves, also do a good job of pulling to the infield or exiting to the pits when they have a problem. All this makes for less down time and more racing action.
  The track also does a great job of getting the fans involved. Ballots were handed out allowing fans to decide upcoming match races at "The Friends of Mike" event that is upcoming. They also got to pick a fan's choice for entry into the Big-Block main event, and a number of prizes were handed out to many of the children on hand. They even gave away a free pair of World of Outlaw tickets.
  Despite having a very small area behind the grandstands to work with, there were many different food and souvenir options. Even during intermission, the lines were short, and service was quick.
  As well as the management and officials at New Egypt Speedway do with the night's entertainment, Billy Pauch may be even better on the track. Despite starting 18th, the Frenchtown, New Jersey driver picked up his 10th win of the season and 99th of his career. This truly looks like his year, as even when it seems another competitor is well out in front, and Pauch, seemingly, has no chance of catching him, a caution flag will fly, allowing him to restart alongside.
  New Egypt Speedway, and Billy Pauch, certainly make for an enjoyable Saturday night. The track does a great job of keeping you entertained, right up until the start of the Big-Block featue. It is then Pauch's turn, no disrespect to his fellow competitors. Watching this living-legend navigate through traffic, on his way to the front, is truly worth the price of admission alone.
  My son thoroughly enjoyed his first visit to a dirt track. I think we picked the right one, since he is already asking when we can return. Soon I tell him, knowing full well it won't be soon enough, for either of us.     

NASCAR Seizes Ryan Newman's Modified

  There are reports claiming NASCAR has seized the Whelen Modified Tour car number 7 of New Hampshire race winner Ryan Newman. The car is scheduled to be delivered to the NASCAR R&D facility in North Carolina, for inspection early next week. There is no word what they are looking for.
  This move could simply be because of the sheer dominance of the 7NY every time it participates in the series. Certainly there are rumblings among the Tour regulars regarding the legality of the car.
  Guess we'll find out soon if the car's illegal, or Ryan Newman is just that good of a driver. Seeing how he won the NASCAR Sprint Cup race today, I would tend to side with the driver, but I guess we will see.

Photos: Official Nascar Photos from Modified Tour Race at New Hampshire

  Below are some of the official pictures released to the NASCAR Media by NASCAR for the Modified Tour race at New Hampshire. These are definitely the best looking race cars in the world !

NASCAR Modified Tour Results for New Hampshire

A quick look at the top-ten finishers in Saturday's NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
1) Ryan Newman
2) Todd Szegedy
3) Ron Silk
4) Matt Hirschman
5) Doug Coby
6) Rowan Pennink
7) Eric Goodale
8) Ron Yuhas Jr.
9) Ed Flemke Jr.
10) Woody Pitkat
Sadly our NJ representatives didn't fare too well.
19) Jamie Tomaino  2 laps down
30) Jimmy Blewett   Engine trouble on lap 73
  The Modified Tour now heads to Riverhead next weekend.

Modified Tour Qualifying Results from New Hampshire

The qualifying results are in from New Hampshire, and to no one's surprise, Ryan Newman is on the pole for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race.
1) Ryan Newman
2) Ron Silk
3) Todd Szegedy
4) Bobby Santos
5) Andy Petree
6) Doug Coby
7) Rowan Pennink
8) Ryan Preece
9) Matt Hirschman
10) Ted Christopher
 Our NJ drivers are as follows
15) Jimmy Blewett
26) Jamie Tomaino
 Other notables
11) Eric Beers
17) Mike Stefanik
21) Woody Pitkat
34) Justin Bosignore, provisional spot

Wall Stadium Has the Cure This Saturday for Boring NASCAR Races

  If you count yourself among those who have grown bored with the type of racing currently being seen in NASCAR Sprint Cup, and yearn for those days when race cars actually rubbed on one another, and got sideways, you should head out to Wall Stadium this Saturday night. The Jersey Shore track will play host to a race that will certainly see plenty of door-slamming, and wheel-banging, a 50-lap Street Stock feature.
  Believe it or not, either for those too young to remember, or those old enough that their memory is fading, Sprint Cup cars actually used to have contact with each other. They didn't used to just put in laps, with a safe stopping distance between each other, waiting to actually only race with 10 laps to go. Drivers used to fight for position, on every lap, as if it was the last lap. They didn't wave a guy by because he was faster, they tried harder to keep him behind if they were faster.
  The Street Stocks at Wall Stadium race much like the NASCAR stars of the past used to. They aren't afraid to rub on each other, in fact they enjoy it. They aren't afraid of trying to make a hole on the track where there isn't one. Put simply, they are exciting to watch. Now put them in a 50-lap race, double their normal distance, and you have got more action in one race than NASCAR may see all year.
  Also on the schedule at Wall Stadium, this Saturday, are the Modifieds, in a 40-lap event. These open-wheel machines were the originators of the bump-and-run move, and you will probably see it more than once during the evening.
  Factory Stocks and INEX Legend Cars will also compete in 25-lap races, so you are certain to get plenty of great racing action down the shore this Saturday.
  Spectator gates open at 5pm, with racing starting at 7pm. For more information check out the track's website at http://www.wallspeedway.com/.

Two NJ Drivers on Entry List to Challenge Ryan Newman at New Hampshire

  The entry list for this weekend's NASCAR Whelen Modified race at New Hampshire gives Jersey race fans two hopes for defeating Ryan Newman, and another former Sprint Cup driver who is entered. While neither has had much luck in the past at the New England track, one is a past champion, and the other is surely looking to return to much-missed winning ways.
  Jamie Tomaino, of Howell, is a former NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Champion, taking the title in 1990. He has been on the tour since it's inception, and, in fact has only missed 5 starts out of the possible 530 races run in it's history. While he has 3 wins, on the tour, none have come at New Hampshire.
  Tomaino will be behind the wheel of his familiar number 99 Chevrolet, sponsored by Supreme Manufacturing Company. Making it a truly family effort, Jamie's son, Trey, will serve as crewchief on the team's effort.
  The other New Jersey driver on the entry list for New Hampshire is Jimmy Blewett. While Blewett has never won a championship on tour, he does have more wins than Tomaino with 5. However, he too has never won at the "Magic Mile."
  Blewett may actually be more hungry for a win than Tomaino. Jimmy was a multi-time winner seemingly ever year for most of his career. This year, however, he decided to try a new challenge, dirt. The new cars, and surface, have been just that, a challenge. Although he has performed much better lately, he is certainly not on his way to the type of year he had grown accustomed to. A win at New Hampshire would certainly make his year.
  Jimmy, will be driving the famous red number 14, owned by Dick Barney, and sponsored by Ling Trucking and Atlantic Sprinkler. Much like Blewett, this team, which has quite an impressive history in the Northeast, hasn't had much success lately.
  Both Jersey drivers, as well as the rest of the field, will certainly have their hands full with Sprint Cup driver Ryan Newman, who, once again, will be behind the wheel of the number 7. He will be joined in the field by former Dale Earnhardt crewchief, and former Sprint Cup driver, Andy Petree, who will be driving the number 5, a Troyer he built himself.
  While we don't know if either of our New Jersey representatives will end up in victory lane, what we do know is the Modified Tour race will certainly be the best event at New Hampshire Motor Speedway all weekend.
  Good luck, guys, make Jersey proud !

Old Jamie Tomaino Victory Lane Photo Recognize Anyone?

  Check out this old Jamie Tomaino victory lane photo that is featured on the NASCARMedia website. Anyone recognize anybody in the photo?

 The photo is by Howie and Mary Hodge. Does Jamie ever change?

Is Wall Stadium Really Planning on Doing This, Saturday ?

  I need to preface this by saying I love Wall Stadium, and try to be as positive a supporter as possible. However, when they schedule something like they have for this upcoming Saturday night's program, I have to call them on it.
  Wall Stadium will be presenting a 50-lap feature event for their Street Stocks, this Saturday. That's not really a bad thing, I for one enjoy the action they provide most weeks, and I think the younger fans really enjoy them.
  What I cannot figure out is why they would ever even consider running time trials for the division. Street Stocks are good when there are many of them bouncing off each other, however, one at a time on the track ? Wake me when they are done.
  For a track that already races too deep into the night, the last thing they need is Street Stock time trials. Hopefully the officials will realize what a bad idea this is, and save the fans from a boring half-hour of screeching tires, all to set a field that will be completely jumbled by the time they make it back to the line.
 

Time to Remember John Blewett III

  I write about races and racers on almost a daily basis. While I enjoy what I do, most times the blog posts or articles are based on figures like average starting position, or career wins. However, as our beloved NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour heads to New Hampshire this weekend, I can't help but find myself thinking about one person, the late John Blewett III.
  John, was perhaps the greatest driver in the history of the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, in his shortened career. He had 20 starts at the track, and managed to win 4 of those. He was also the New Hampshire Motor Speedway Track Champion four times, in 2000, 2002, 2003, and 2006. There are those that will say these are not "real" championships, since they weren't the culmination of an entire season of races. To those people I say, you don't have any clue just how good John Blwett III was.
  He was a champion at four tracks, overall, including New Hampshire. The other's being New Egypt, Flemington, and his "home" track of Wall Stadium. He, also, won the Race of Champions, the NASCAR Northeast Regional Title in 1996, two Challenge of Champions, two North South Shootouts, three Garden State Classics, and four Turkey Derbys. He had 96 career wins at the time of his death.
  The statistics, however, don't even begin to tell the story of John Blewett III. He was not only an amazing driver, but also one of the best set-up men in racing. He was hands-on, spending countless hours preparing his cars for competition. Unlike some drivers, who remain in the seat during practice sessions, while the crew adjusts the car, John was usually the one making the changes himself.
  He was also among the first to give advice, or help, if you asked. John truly believed in beating you on the racetrack when you were running your best. I remember one time in particular when I was helping a driver at Flemington Speedway, who was quite accomplished in several of the other divisions, but was struggling with his move up to the NASCAR Modifieds. John was asked if he could turn a few laps in the car, and then share his thoughts. Sacrificing his own practice time, he gladly hopped in, ran some of the fastest laps ever run in the car, and suggested changes.
  John, at that moment, didn't see this team as a potential threat to his victory totals, but as a group of guys, much like himself, doing what they enjoy, and working hard at it. My respect for the man was taken to an even higher level, not just as a racer, but as a person.
  So as the Modified Tour heads to New Hampshire, this weekend, take a little time to remember John Blewett III. A champion in so many ways, whose career, and life, was way, way, too short. 

Jason Hearne Email for Those Who Wish to Discuss Wall Stadium

  Jason Hearne does not wish the track at which he grew up, Wall Stadium, to continue to be the subject of negative comments on message boards or social media like Facebook. He has provided Racing Around Jersey, his email, to be made public to anyone wishing to discuss either his actions or the track's personally.
He only wants the best for Wall Stadium, and thanks all of those who have been positive throughout this entire matter.
  Jason Hearne can be reached at smoke20@gmail.com.

Friends of Mike T-Shirt on Sale

  Check out this nice t-shirt currently on sale at New Egypt Speedway. All proceeds of the shirt's sales go into the purse for the Friends of Mike race scheduled for Saturday, July 30th. So if you want a great-looking race shirt and want to feel like you are part of the event, make sure you pick one up while you are at the track.

Jason Hearne Announces Plans

  Jason Hearne wants people to know several things, including his plans to continue racing in 2011. His view of what happened at Wall Stadium over the last week, directly contradicts a few of the statements made by the track, so he just wants to get his point of view heard, and move on with the season.
  Wall Stadium claims he refused to scale his car, yet Jason contends the car actually sat on the scales for more than an hour. It is also the contention of the track, that the car, as it ran at Wall, was not the same make-up as it was run last season at Mountain Speedway, which makes it illegal at both Wall and Mountain.
  Hearne addresses this by saying he is returning to Mountain Speedway this Saturday, where he has been assured the car is legal to compete.
  The truly odd part of all of this is Wall Stadium's offer for Jason to return this weekend with the car, as is, and compete. Either a car is legal or it isn't.
  Jason Hearne really stresses the point, that at no time did he or his Jamie Wolf Race team set out with the intention of cheating. Jason simply wanted to realize his dream of winning at the track his father had 101 times before, and not burden his team with the trip to Mountain every week.
  I need to state, I at one time was a member of the Jamie Wolf  Race team, and know these guys personally. I know they are not cheaters. They are just passionate about auto racing. The Hearne family has handled this about as well as anyone could expect.
  I am also a big fan of Wall Stadium, it is a big part of who I am today. Sadly, like many tracks, disputes spin out of control, and the results are usually not good for anyone.
  I truly believe this was a simple misunderstanding that quickly grew into something much bigger, and eventually got out of control. Jason Hearne is not a bad guy, and Cliff Krause and his Wall staff, remember, stepped up to keep this track running.
  Maybe once everything cools down a little bit, these two parties can sit down and talk it out. Afterall, Jason Hearne belongs at Wall Stadium, and Wall Stadium needs Jason Hearne.  

Wall Stadium's Response to Jason Hearne Controversy

  As many of you know who not only follow this blog, Racing Around Jersey, but also my posts on NJ.com, the controversy surrounding Jason Hearne's disqualification last Saturday night at Wall continues.
  I received an email from the track, today, expressing their point of view on several of the subjects in dispute. I feel it is only fair to share them with you, here, so both sides can express their views, publicly.
  A meeting was held Thursday night between Jason, and his team, and officials from Wall Stadium. Jason demanded his win back, and was denied.
  He was then informed that his team was originally granted permission to run his car as it was run at Mountain Speedway, last year, with a SST Motor. The track contends he, instead, showed up with a Wall Spec. Motor built by Harry Reed, which doesn't make his car legal at Wall or Mountain Speedway.
  The track also contends, Jason refused to have his car weighed, stating the scales were wrong.
  He then brought up things that happened at the track more than 4 weeks ago, concerning Anthony Sesely, not drivers who had been involved with him on the track.
  Wall Stadium maintains they then made an offer to Jason and his team. They would not get their win back, but would be able to return to the track this Saturday, and receive a variance of handicapping in his favor.
  Jason and his crew then reportedly left abruptly.
  None of this is benefitting anyone. Wall Stadium is losing a quality team, and possibly some fans. Jason Hearne is not racing at the track he dreamed of competing at for years, and the fans are losing yet another race team to cheer for. Hopefully this can all be resolved, and we will see Jason Hearne back at Wall sooner, than later. 

Photo of Michael Waltrip's Toyota for Kentucky Featuring Old DW Photo

  Check out this photo of Michael Waltrip's NACAR Sprint Cup Toyota that he will attempt to qualify at Kentucky with. The car features a photo of his brother, Darrell Waltrip, in victory lane with Michael, still as a child. Leave it to Michael to call attention to his sponsor in such a creative way, the man is a marketing genius.

Gil Hearne Places Ad in AARN

  If anyone wondered where Jason Hearne got his class and likeability from, they don't need to look any farther than this week's issue of Area Auto Racing News. Gil Hearne, who was scheduled to appear at Wall Stadium Saturday night, as part of their "Salute to the Champions", has placed ad ad on page 24.
  I will not print the ad here, as I highly suggest you pick up a copy of the paper and read it yourself, however, it basically apologizes to the fans for the fact he will no longer be attending the event.
  This story just keeps getting sadder, let's hope this can be worked out before Saturday, and not only can Gil get the respect he deserves, but the rest of the family can be there as well. Especially Jason in the number 12.

Former Dale Earnhardt Crew Chief to Race Nascar Modified at New Hampshire

  Andy Petree was a championship winning crew chief for Dale Earnhardt in 1993 and 1994, he is also a long-time fan of the NASCAR Whelen Modifieds. After years of wondering what it would be like to be behind the wheel of the only open-wheel cars run under the NASCAR banner, he finally got his chance earlier this year.
  Petree, who besides being a crew chief, and Sprint Cup team owner, also drove in the Nationwide and Camping World Truck Series. However, he always wanted to try a Modified. He got his chance with two starts down at New Smyrna with a Troyer car he built himself, in February.
  He has now decided to take the next step and compete in the F.W.Webb 100 for the NASCAR Whelen Modifieds at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on July 16th. He had a test session scheduled for today, and if all goes well, he hopes to not only run with the Modifieds next weekend, but possibly at Bristol as well.
  What I truly don't understand is why the Modified division continues to get no respect by the higher-ups in NASCAR. Seemingly, every Sprint Cup driver, and television personality that has ever seen the division run does nothing but rave about the racing. They have drivers like Ryan Newman, and now Petree, running the races, and yet no television deal. The division's greatest driver of all-time, Richie Evans, even just got elected to the Nascar Hall of Fame.
  I can almost guarantee a tape-delayed version of the NASCAR Whelen Modified race, scheduled at the same time every week, on Speed Channel would generate higher ratings than many of their current programs.
  Wake up NASCAR and Speed and get this done for 2012. 

Jason Hearne Statement - What a Class Act !

  For those of you following the Jason Hearne situation regarding Wall Stadium, it doesn't look like it will be resolved in his favor. Although I still cannot get anyone at the track to discuss the situation, it seems the disqualification has been upheld, and sadly for Jason and his fans, it appears he will no longer be competing at Wall, at least in the near future.
  I am, however, privy to his Facebook page, and the statements he made there. Jason, truly is a class act, and I would like to share with you his thoughts on the matter, below.
   Jason said, "Unfortunately things are not going down like I wanted. But beneath all the BS are true hearted great people, which is why I love racing. Thank you all so much for the congratulatory words, support, and just being great friends and family! That means more to me than any win at any track!"
  He continued on to say, " I love Wall Stadium and wish them the absolute best, no matter what I do not wish anything negative against that track. I grew up there, celebrated my dad's greatest moments there and it will always be home. For 30 years I dreamed of standing where my dad did 101 times, and the feeling was unreal. It cannot be taken away from me, my team or family ever. Not sure where I'll be in the future, but you can bet your ass it will be at a racetrack."
  If those statements don't tell you what a class act this man is then you will never get it. While other drivers would be cursing the track, officials, and management, he is wishing them well.
  The truly sad part is Wall Stadium is losing not only another race team, but one that is very popular. While most wouldn't be able to make the trip to Pennsylvania to see him compete, should he choose to race at New Egypt, like Jimmy Blewett and Tommy Farrell, the track just may lose some fans that they desperately need.
  Congratulations to Roger Coss, and with no disrespect, there are no winners in how this is all going down. I, like Jason, grew up at Wall, and hope this doesn't become one more nail in the coffin. 

Jason Hearne Wall Disqualification Part 2

  When Jason Hearne crossed the finish line first, at Wall Stadium Saturday night, the win was one of the most popular seen in recent years. Fans not only celebrated at Wall, but New Egypt Speedway as well, when it was announced there.
  The disappointment when Hearne was stripped of the win has perhaps been even greater, and has turned to anger for some. There are many voicing their displeasure, on the various social networking sites, at not only the decision, but the track in general, as well.
  Jason, and his Jamie Wolf race team, have been running the same car at Wall all year. While the rearend they run isn't "legal" by the track's rulebook, they were reportedly given permission to run the car as it is by officials and track management.
  I believe this for two reasons. First, I know both Jason and Jamie personally, and I know they would never cheat on purpose. Secondly, the rearend is there for everyone to see each week. It isn't an engine or transmission component that can't be seen by the naked eye.
  There are several other problems with how this was handled. First, most nights there are less than 20 Modifieds in Wall's pits. The Modifieds are the headline division, so if any of the cars in competition each week should be checked for legality, it is them. Time for the inspection, should not be an issue, especially when you are talking about something so out in the open. Secondly, the way I understand it, rearends weren't being checked at Wall on Saturday, and no one put up any challenge money to check it. Who made the decision, and why now?
  I have asked for comment on this matter through the two sources I have in Wall Stadium's management, and have yet to get a response. I understand there may be a meeting taking place Tuesday between officials and Jason Hearne concerning the matter. Let's hope this can be resolved in the best interests of both Hearne and Wall Stadium. The track should realize Hearne chose to compete there rather than Mountain Speedway, and brought with him not only additional pit license money, but also fan admission.
  I'm not saying they should return the win just because of the money or fans he brings to the track. However, if he was truly told he could run his number 12 there as it is, something backed up by the fact he has done so since opening day, then the win should be returned.
  Stay tuned for Part 3, it should be interesting! 

GoDaddy Sold, What's it Mean for Danica Patrick and NASCAR ?

  Fresh off a week when many in the NASCAR community were stunned by the announcement that Red Bull would be leaving the sport as an owner, there is news concerning another major sponsor. GoDaddy.com has been bought by a team of private investors for $2.25 billion.
  The company has made statements that they remain committed to Danica Patrick, both as a spokesperson and a sponsor of her racing efforts. This, however, many times is standard operarting procedure when a company is aquired. They don't want anyone around them making any bold moves before they get the chance to begin implementing their ideas.
  The general consenus surrounding Danica was she was coming to NASCAR and bringing GoDaddy with her. Now, will the number of teams courting her diminish if her sponsorship is in doubt?
  This is also not good news for NASCAR, itself. With the uncertainty of the Red Bull situation, and now GoDaddy. With the tough economy the sport cannot bear to potentually lose two major sponsors.
  Only time will tell, but don't be surprised if GoDaddy Goes Away.

Birthday Party Idea for Those in Mooresville, NC Area

Check out this super cool portable slot car track. What a great idea for a kid's birthday party. If you and your kids are lucky enough to live in the Mooresville area, and are interested, contact Race City Raceway.

NJ's Bruce Cook Looks for Second Nationwide Daytona Win in 2011

  The Nascar garage is filled with people originally from New Jersey. One of the nicest and most talented of them is Bruce Cook. Following a short stint as a driver himself, many will remember him for his white #84 he ran in the Street Stocks at Flemington Speedway, Bruce headed South. He has paid his dues, and none other than Kevin Harvick has chosen him to lead one of his Nationwide teams.
  Bruce Cook will be the crew chief for the number 9 TapOut Chevrolet driven by Tony Stewart this Fourth of July weekend at Daytona. He is actually listed as the crew chief of two cars on the entry list. The number 4 car is entered with Kevin Harvick listed as the driver, in case qualifying is rained out. Cook is down as that car's crew chief as well.
  Cook, already has a couple wins in Nascar this year, but he would certainly love to add this race to that total. So even if you're not a Stewart fan, if you are a New Jersey race fan cheer on that number 9 Nationwide car. It's always good to see one of our own do good.
  GOOD LUCK, BRUCE !

Thompson Results Nascar Whelen Modified Tour

  For all you Nascar Modified fans, who were unable to make it to Thompson last night, I have posted the top ten.
1) Ted Christpher, won pole, missed drivers meeting, started last, spun once, and still won !
2) Ron Silk
3) Rowan Pennink
4) Bobby Santos
5) Eric Berndt
6) Todd Szegedy
7) Doug Coby
8) Eric Beers
9) James Civali
10) Eric Goodale
* Jersey note: Jamie Tomaino finished 17th.