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!
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