Open Invitation to Martin Truex Jr., Back Up What You Say Martin

  Martin Truex Jr. was recently quoted as saying, " I obviously love racing and in a way, I hate to see the season end. I wouldn't mind racing more."
  Well Martin, there actually is an opportunity to do a little more racing in 2011. In fact, it is at a track you are very familiar with, and the race certainly one you would love to win.
  I am, of course, talking about the Turkey Derby at Wall Stadium on Thanksgiving weekend. I am sure the track would love to have you, heck, they would even probably help you find a ride if you can't come up with one of your own.
  With not only Tour Modifieds, Wall Modifieds, and even dirt cars on the schedule there are certainly plenty of options.
  So Martin, you hate to see the season end? Back up those words, and start making plans to be in New Jersey for Thanksgiving.
  Show everyone you haven't forgot where Wall Stadium is. Here's a clue, it's where you got your start!

New Egypt Speedway to Run at Least 2 More Weeks in 2011

  Despite the most recent, and unusual, snow storm this Halloween weekend New Egypt Speedway is actually planning on racing at least two more weekends in 2011. This coming weekend will see the track presnt a quite unique event, while in two weeks they will try to make up the show lost this weekend to the storm.
  Saturday November 5th will see the return of the Big Kahuna Series, with a twist. Billed as the "Fall Jamboree", it will feature the Tobias SpeedSTR's, Bilstein Slingshots, Legends, and Enduro, as usual, however, an addition to the scheduled events is a 25-lap Run-What-Ya-Brung, with very limited rules, Big-Block Modified event , known as the "Jersey Jam."
  This could certainly be an interesting event with the addition of the Big-Block race. With most of the dirt racing on the East Coast wrapped up, one can only wonder who will show up, driving what?
  New Egypt will then try to make up the show it lost this weekend to the snow storm. The November 12th event will feature the "Friends of Mike" Gritty 50 for Crate-1's, the "Romano Memorial" 42 for Sportsman, a Demolition Derby, Enduro, and Vintage Cars. Still billed "Halloween Havoc", the track plans to still hold a costume contest, that day.
  This is quite an ambitious schedule this late in the season, especially considering the weather we just had this weekend. However, racers never want to stop racing, and NJ race fans are a hardy bunch.

Lots of Banging on Tap at Wall Stadium Sunday

  If you are a fan of door handle-to-door handle racing the Wall Stadium is where you will want to be on Sunday afternoon. The Jersey Shore speedway will present a daytime racing card featuring the North East Enduro Tour Series(NEETS).
  Enduro cars are a step up from demolition derby cars, which are built to withstand the constant hits of competition. The cars competing in NEETS events are also built to take lots abuse, but they are also built to get around a tough oval, like the one at Wall Stadium.
  On the schedule for Sunday are the Big Car division which will run a 131-lap event, the Small Cars, which will go 100-laps, the NEETS TRUX with a 50-lapper, and the Ladies Division, which will run a 25-lap feature.
  The track will also host a Halloween costume contest for kids during intermission. The grandstands open at noon, with the first event scheduled to start at 1pm. For more info, or questionable weather, check the track's website at http://www.wallspeedway.com/.

Divorce Next for Kevin Harvick?

  There are some closely associated with the inner workings of the NASCAR garage area that have been suggesting since the announcement of the disbanding of Kevin Harvick Racing that the move had more to do with marital difficulties than financial ones. There have even been unsubstantiated rumors of an affair.
  I have to tell you I was contacted prior to the announcement of the sale of Kevin Harvick's team to Richard Childress, and told he was closing up shop due to some serious marital issues. I refrained from sharing with you the details I had been told, out of both respect for two peoples' lives, and the very real possibility that it was only a rumor.
  However, as the events unfolded over the course of several weeks, I found myself believing what I was told, by someone I trust immensely, that the real reason for the team's demise was a marital issue, and not a financial one. Afterall, if a team like KHI, that not only has sponsors, but runs up front every week, and competes for championships, cannot continue operation than what does that say for the rest of the sport.
  The other reason given for the sale was so Harvick could concentrate on his pursuit of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Championship. Harvick could of certainly hired someone to run the organization for him, and taken a step back, easier than having to negotiate a complete sale. It has never really added up.
  I have now been contacted by this same source telling me the next step in the Kevin Harvick saga is a divorce. I am sharing this with you, because, while at this point it may only be a rumor, my source has been right on just about everything that has unfolded so far.
  If this turns out to be true it is not only unfortunate that a marriage has to end, but also the amount of hard-working people at KHI that are caused to suffer because of it.   

New Egypt Speedway Returns to Action on Saturday

  Despite it being the end of October, Halloween weekend, and a slight chill in the air, New Egypt Speedway is not done presenting racing to it's NJ fans. The odd-shaped, yet extremely fast, dirt track returns to action this Saturday, October 29th, with a program highlighted by the Sportsman divisions.
  The Crate-1 Sportsman will be competing in the "Friends of Mike" Gritty 50, while the Sportsman will run their "Romano Memorial 42" race. They will be joined on the card by an Enduro, and a Demolition Derby, along with an appearance by some Vintage Cars.
  Billed as "Halloween Havoc", there will also be costume contests, and trick-or-treating for the children in attendance. The event gets underway at 3pm, and admission is $20 for Adults, $10 for children(12-15), and free for kids 11 and under.
  New Egypt Speedway knows how to do it right, so this will certainly be an entertaining day for all who attend. 

Today's Food and Drink Specials at Mulligans - A Sponsor of Local Racing

  We at Racing Around Jersey not only strive to bring you the stories NJ race fans want to read about, but we are also looking to help support the businesses who help support local auto racing through our "SHOP THE SPONSORS" page.
  The business we would like to highlight today has been a favorite of many in the Wall Stadium area, and a supporter of numerous cars at that track throughout the years, Mulligans. Located at 203 Squankum Road in Farmingdale, they feature daily specials every day which are sure to satisfy you as much as had you paid full price.
  So check out today's specials by clicking the link below, enjoy, and remember to tell them RacingAroundJersey.com sent you.
Mulligans Specials for Wed 10/26

Whose Beautiful Tour Mod Was That in the Pits at Wall, and More

  The pit area at Wall Stadium was packed this past Saturday for their first annual "Halloween Spooky Spectacular". There were TQ Midgets, Micros, Factory Stocks, Street Stocks, Legends, Sportsman, Wall Mods, and even several Tour Modifieds, looking to get in some practice for the upcoming Turkey Derby. It almost looked like "the good old days", when the pits would overflow with competitors every Saturday night.
  While the sheer number of cars was amazing, one machine in particular stood out. The Tour Mod number 19, with a familiar name to Wall Stadium and New Egypt Speedway fans alike painted above the door, Rob Ormsbee. If the Turkey Derby was purely a car show the number 19 would certainly be the winner, hands down.
  However, don't think for a minute this car is all show and no go. Ormsbee is not only an accomplished driver on both dirt and asphalt, but one of the most respected car builders in the Northeast. The black and red machine will certainly have everything it needs to run upfront, including a driver who can get the job done. If you go to the Turkey Derby make sure you keep an eye out for this Tour Mod, it will be hard to miss.
  Another interesting observation from Wall on Saturday, was the sticker on the roof of the winning car of the Sportsman feature, the Barney number 14. Driven by female high school student Shawna Ingraham who had recently competed in the King of the Mountain events, the sticker from the event was still in place. However, the word King had been crossed out, and replaced with Queen. How appropriate after her run Saturday.
  There was another car that caught my eye for all the wrong reasons at Wall, as well. The number 14 Street Stock of Elliot Wohl. While the car sat on the scales as officials discussed his disqualification I noticed some "artwork" that had obviously been done by someone on the driver's side quarter panel. Although Wohl is known to be somewhat of a prankster, I really don't think he did it, and didn't even know it was there. Someone had used a marker on his white car to write I Heart (a picture of male gentalia).
  I appreciate a good prank as much as anyone, but I surely hope that was removed before the fans were allowed into the pits after the races. It's hard enough to explain a DQ to a young child, let alone that.

The Only Good Thing About Talladega - Underdogs

  I am a NASCAR fan, however I am not a fan of any of the races run at Talledega, until there are about 2 laps remaining. Sure I have that wreck on the highway curiuosity regarding the"Big One", but I could just as easily have the race on in the background while I do other things, and turn to look when it does happen. Honestly, most of the drivers are just riding around waiting for the last 2 laps to make their move. If someone could tell me the exact time the last 2 laps would start I probably wouldn't even tune in until then. I could easily watch the highlights on Speed or ESPN, later that night.
  The one thing I do like about Talladega, however, is the opportunity it brings for an underdog to win, or at least do well. That was definitely the case this weekend.
  I couldn't be happier to see a guy like Mike Wallace, who pretty much makes his living driving for underfunded efforts who every weekend have no shot at a win, come across that finish line first in the Camping World Truck Series. What made it even more special was he was a substitute driver who wasn't even scheduled to run.
  Talladega also gave a team I follow closely because of their ties to the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, Tommy Baldwin Racing, an opportunity for a great run which they took advantage of. Their driver Dave Blaney brought the Golden Corral Chevrolet home in fourth place. A great run for a team that some weeks is a start and park operation.
  Talladega is the one race on the NASCAR schedule where any car or truck on the track has a shot at winning. It's a shame they can't just shorten the race to a ten lap shootout, and save us all a little time. 

Could IndyCar Learn Something from Wall Stadium?

  Before you say what could IndyCar ever possibly have to do with Wall Stadium, the 1/3 mile high-banked oval that doesn't even have a NASCAR Modified Tour race on it's schedule, let me refresh your memory, and maybe even shock you.
  IndyCars have actually been on the track. It happened many years ago when IndyCar team owner Roger Penske, a NJ native, was looking for a place to shake-down his two entries in the Meadsowlands Grand Prix. The cars took laps around the track just to make sure everything was tight, and there were no leaks.
  All this aside, what got me thinking about IndyCar while at Wall this Saturday for the first annual "Halloween Spooky Spectacular", was one of the worst crashes I have ever seen at the speedway. The accident was a one car incident when a TQ Midget touched the apron, the driver overcorrected, and ended up on his side.
  The car slide up the banking, at a high rate of speed, toward the wall. It impacted the wall, between turns 3 and 4, top of the roll cage first, with only it's top-wing to cushion the blow.
  Seeing it happen I expected the worse. I thought the driver, at the very least, was seriously injured. Much to my surprise, the driver climbed from the car, and walked to the ambulance. Once I saw he was alright, my thoughts immediately went to IndyCar, and their recent loss of Dan Wheldon to head trauma as a result of an accident.
  Why doesn't IndyCar put a roll cage above their driver's head? While I don't think for a minute a roll cage would have saved Wheldon, it certainly couldn't hurt. The cars would still be nothing like the NASCAR machines, but perhaps just a bit safer.
  Nothing will ever make racing totally safe, however, maybe, just maybe, IndyCar could learn a little something from a little track in New Jersey. Afterall, it has been the launching post for some of motorsports biggest names, like Evernham, and Truex. Why not a safety innovation?

Sportsman Race at Wall Stadium a Horrible Event with a Shining Moment

  I have to admit I have not gotten to Wall Stadium as much as I would of hoped in 2011, however, on the few nights I have been able to attend the Sportsman division provided some of the best racing on those nights. So when a crewman on a street stock team, that I have known for many years, said to me prior to the scheduled 50-lap feature, " Here comes the wreckfest", I was surprised.
  When he inquired of me," How many laps are they going tonight?"
  And I responded with "50"
  He immediately responded with, "We'll be here all night"
  While he wasn't far off on his last comment, even he did not expect the carnage that ensued from the time the Sportsman field took the green. He may have been correct in his all night comment, as well, if track officials hadn't decided to eventually reduce the 50-lap distance to 25 laps.
  Shawna Ingraham, who has improved dramatically since opening night, started on the pole, which turned out to be the safest spot on the track. By lap nine she had already faced more restarts while leading a feature than most drivers in the division had all year.
  The early laps of the feature, in no particular order, saw a car which was forced to the infield on the front straight never lift as it tried to rejoin the field in turn one, resulting in the bodyslamming of another competitor, During the resulting yellow, the damaged car chased the offender down, ran into him, and caused even more damage to his own machine.
  Another on-track incident saw a wrecked competitor throw a safety cone at a fellow driver, which resulted in his escort by security back to his trailer.
  The breaking point for track officials, however, came when a car crashed hard head-on into the frontstretch guardrail, with a majority of the remaining cars piling in, resulting in a red flag.
  An announcement was made that the feature would be reduced to 30 laps, and then eventually to only 25 laps.
  When the checkered flag finally fell, it was Shawna Ingraham, the teenage schoolgirl driving for the legendary Barney Racing team in the red number 14, who crossed the line first. It was not only her first career victory, but the first open-wheel division win ever for a female at this historic track. A truly shining moment in an otherwise terrible race caused by inexperienced drivers, racing on skinny tires, on a cold track.
  Ironically, perhaps the most inexperienced driver, on one of the season's most difficult nights, managed to pick up her first win.
  Congrats Shawna, and the entire Barney Racing team. Obviously, not only do nice guys not finish last, but they can also help a nice girl finish first as well. 

Martin Truex Jr. Windshield Confiscated by NASCAR at Talladega

  NASCAR has conficated the windshields of all three cars entered at Talladega by Michael Waltrip Racing, including the NAPA number 56 driven by NJ's Martin Truex Jr. The windshields were found to have non-approved alterations.
  Penalties will be announced by NASCAR at a later date. We will have to watch the race to see how this affects the MWR team. Truex and Waltrip, in particular, usually run very well at restrictor plate race tracks.
  Just another chapter in the strange and disappointing 2011 Sprint Cup season of Martin Truex Jr.

Wall Stadium's Halloween Event Big Hit with Fans

  Wall Stadium presented it's first annual "Halloween Spooky Spectacular" on Saturday night, and based on the size of the crowd, and how much they were enjoying themselves, I would have to say it should certainly not be the last. Track management seemed to take a cue from minor league baseball games, where there is so much going on in the grandstands the game almost becomes secondary. Last night at Wall, there were so many activities and attractions, for the fans, I truly feel they would of had a good time even if there wasn't any action on the track.
  As you walked through the spectator gate at Wall, you knew this was no ordinary night at the Jersey Shore speedway. The gazebo immediately to your left was not only decorated for Halloween, but also featured, for sale, the shirts of several race teams besides the track's own shirt. As you continued to walk along there wasn't a single pole that didn't have a "scary" creature attached to it, one actually more than 8 feet tall.
  When it came to entertainment for the kids the choices were almost unending. There was a bouncy house, located in the turn one area, where a "train" was also giving children a ride behind the grandstands free of charge. A pumpkin decorating area, that was full most of the night, kept many children busy, along with a coloring contest, that actually had a two year old as a winner in one class.
  The Halloween costume contest was also a big hit with the fans. Costumes, among the more than 20 participants, ranged from small children dressed as assorted demons up to a mature woman dressed as Mrs. Claus. A large crowd gathered to check out the costumes, including several of the night's race drivers.
  Yes, there was action on the track, as well. In fact, the pits were as full of race cars, as the grandstands were fans. However, the racing was marred by many serious-looking wrecks, none which resulted in any major injuries, thankfully, but which delayed the event numerous times. I will post, later, more on the racing, and how it was handled by the track officials.
  Purely from a fan's perspective, not including the many delays on the track, I would have to say the first annual "Halloween Spooky Spectacular" was an overwhelming success. As with any first time event there can certainly be improvents, however, when it comes down to the grandstand area of the track, I don't see how they could've done it better. 

State Police Helicopter & Skydivers Latest Additions to Wall Stadium Halloween Race

  If there weren't already enough reasons to attend Wall Stadium's "Halloween Spooky Spectacular", I just got word that as long as the weather cooperates there are two more additions to the already busy day.
A NJ State Police Helicopter is scheduled to land on the track's infield at 1pm. In addition, the National Anthem skydivers will also be dropping in.
  This is all weather permitting, so hopefully the wind will die down. For more details about this event, please check my NJ.com article below or the track's website.
  See you all there!
IST Annual Halloween Spooky Spectacular

Costume Suggestions for Wall Stadium "Halloween Spooky Spectacular" Saturday

  The first annual "Halloween Spooky Spectacular" this Saturday at Wall Stadium will not only feature some great racing action, but also a costume contest. I couldn't resist this opportunity to suggest some possible costumes.

1) NASCAR debri, something that is seen less than a ghost, but with the most unbelievable timing.

2) The ghosts of Wall Stadium's recent past. Jimmy Blewett, Steven Reed, Rich Mongeau, Jason Hearne, Tommy Farrell. These are all drivers who should be on the track, however, most likely will be seen watching.

3) Mary Wilde. For anyone who remembers the days of the demolition berbies at Wall, Mary, would compete, and when it came time to get the crowd's vote to move on to the main event, she would remove her fire suit to expose a very revealing outfit.

4) The ghosts of Miss Wall. Yes, Wall Stadium at one time had a trophy girl.

5) Tim Arre. If you can get that mustache right, everyone will know who you are.

6) The sweeper truck, that met an unfortunate end by tumbling down the banking.

7) The ghosts of tracks past. Flemington, East Windsor, Old Bridge, etc. The list, sadly, is just too long.

  I'm sure you guys can come up with many more. I, afterall, had to be nice. I am really looking forward to somebody coming up with a great costume, one that only Wall Stadium fans would get! 

MWR Talladega Preview Video Including #15 Tribute to Darrell Waltrip

  Check out this preview video sent to me by Michael Waltrip Racing. It not only gives you some info on the 00 Aaron's car driven by David Reutimann, and the number 56 NAPA car driven by Martin Truex Jr., but also a look at the number 15 tribute to Darrell Waltrip car to be driven by Michael Waltrip. Check it out below.
http://www.michaelwaltripracing.com/teams/car-56/driver-bio

Nascar Honoring Dan Wheldon with Sticker at Talledega

  NASCAR itself, and many of the drivers and teams at this weekend's Talladega events will honor the memory of IndyCar racer Dan Wheldon in many different ways. The one constant will be a sticker attached to the B-Post of every vechicle which competes. I have included below a copy of what it will look like.

NASCAR Award Nominee to Attend Wall's Halloween Race

  The reasons to attend the first annual "Halloween Spooky Spectacular" at Wall Stadium this Saturday just keep coming. I have been informed that Patty Aber, one of four nominees for the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award, will be in attendance.
  Patty is an amazing woman who gives so much of her own time to charitable efforts, it makes you wonder if she ever sleeps. I wrote about her earlier this year when she was only one of hundreds of nominees. The writers, and NASCAR members, were so impressed by her efforts toward helping children they picked her as a finalist for the award.
  The winner of the award gets $100,000 for their charity, and a 2012 Ford Explorer. The winner will be chosen by a fan vote, so we can all help her, and if you go to Wall this Saturday you will get to meet her!
  Check out two articles I wrote about Patty, below.
http://blog.nj.com/new_jersey_auto_racing/2011/10/nj_woman_named_finalist_for_na.html
http://blog.nj.com/new_jersey_auto_racing/2011/07/two_nj_residents_nominated_for.html

Joey Logano Facing his Biggest Challenge Wednesday Night

  Joey Logano, driver of the Home Depot Toyota in NASCAR Sprint Cup, may be facing the biggest challenge of his young life on Wednesday night. The driver, nicknamed "white bread" by Mark Martin will appear on an episode of the Travel Channel's Man V. Food Nation at 9 p.m. E.T.
  His challenge will be attempting to eat a three pound bacon double cheeseburger loaded with pulled pork, and a meaty hot sauce, all over a pound of fries. Not just eat it, though, but eat it in less than 30 minutes.
  To say Joey is skinny is like saying Dale Earnhardt Jr. is popular. The Home Depot driver looks like a strong wind could blow him over, so he certainly has the room, and could use a little more weight on that frame, especially if he plans on confronting Kevin Harvick again.
  I love a good burger as much as anyone, but just thinking about one that size makes my stomach turn. Maybe he should bring a relief driver, let's just hope he doesn't need one for Talladega.

Wall Stadium Looking for Pumpkins, and Racing Nuts!

  This Saturday, Wall Stadium hopes to start a new tradition at the Jersey Shore speedway. The first annual "Halloween Spooky Spectacular" will feature a 75-lap feature for the Wall Modifieds, a 50-lap feature for the Blewett Recycling Sportsman, and additional races for the Factory Stocks, Street Stocks, Inex Legend Cars, TQ Midgets, and Micro Stocks.
  There will also be many activities in the grandstands, as well, including a costume contest, trick-or-treating, and crafts for the children, and a benefit for a State Trooper's wife who suffered complications following giving birth.
  The management also had plans to have pumpkins on hand for the children to decorate, however those plans took a turn for the worse. Seems the pumpkins the track planned on using have already begun to rot. Not wanting to disappoint their youngest fans, the track is now looking to secure some more pumpkins. If you, or anyone you know can help with this, please contact the speedway at Wall Stadium E-mail.
  Oh, and by the way they are also looking for some nuts, race nuts that is, to make this event a success. So if you haven't been to Wall in awhile, or maybe your neighbors have kids who might like to get an early start on Halloween, and the only racing they know is what they see on television, this is the Saturday to go back.
  Racing is scheduled to get underway at 4pm, and the weather forecast is good, and did I mention the Wall Modifieds will be running 75-laps.
  For more information on this event click the link below to a post from NJ.com.
Halloween Spooky Spectacular    

Racers and Fans Come Up Big in Time of Tragedy at Thompson

  While the IndyCar world is dealing with the loss of Dan Wheldon, and Dirt Off-Road racing with the death of one of it's champions, Rick Huseman, the Long Island racing community has also been dealing with a tragic loss. I'm sure you have heard the story by now of the Trinca family, who were devastated by a car crash while on their way to the race track.
  The mother Keri, and 7 year old son Jason, who was a championship-winning go-kart driver, both passed as a result of their injuries. While two other siblings were severely injured, but are expected to recover.
  I have been around racing most of my life, and I know how generous the racing community can be in a time of need so I can't say I am surprised by the outpouring of support for this family in their time of need. What I can say is how proud I am of everyone who stepped up this weekend at Thompson.
  I just read on Justin Bonsignore's Facebook Page that more than $5,000 was collected. While this is amazing, especially considering the economy, the family will certainly need much more.
  If you were unable to attend the races at Thompson, or you just wish to make a donation now you can do so at the Trinca Family Memorial Trust  P.O. Box 520  Ridge, NY 11961.
  Again thank you to all that donated, and please keep the Trinca family in your prayers.

Jimmie Johnson IndyCar Comments - Not Now Jimmie

  I have an incredible amount of respect for Jimmie Johson the five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup driver. While I have never been a fan of his, I have, also, never disliked the man. I, do however, have a problem with him picking today of all days to come out with a statement about IndyCar racing.
  In case you missed it Jimmie stated that he didn't feel the IndyCars should compete on ovals due to their excessive speed. While I will respect that as his opinion, especially since he is a professional race car driver, the timing cannot be worse.
  IndyCar, it's drivers, crews, and fans, are struggling with losing one of their champion drivers. A man who not only won their sport's biggest race earlier this year, the Indy 500, but who was also a husband, and father to two little boys, who will never know their father. Particularly sad since everyone who seemed to know him, loved him.
  This was not the time,Jimmie. Sometimes the most respect you can pay someone, and his family is to just stay silent. IndyCar knows they have problems, but they have also lost one of their own. Now is not the time Jimmie. A true champion would know that.   

Thompson NASCAR Modified Photos

  I have provided some of the official NASCAR photos from today's Whelen Modified Tour race at Thompson. Enjoy.

Racing Loses it's Second Champion in Same Day

  If the day wasn't tragic enough, with the death of Dan Wheldon during the IndyCar finale, earlier today, it is now being reported the world of auto racing has lost it's second champion in the same day, also the result of a tragic accident.
  Rick Huseman, the 2010 Lucas Off-Road Racing Series Pro 4 Unlimited Champion, has apparently perished in a plane crash. He recorded ten victories, in the series, driving his own Monster Energy Drink sponsored truck.
  This is truly a sad day for racing. Our prayers and condolences go out to both the Wheldon and Huseman families. R.I.P. Champs.

Thompson Results NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Glen Who?

  Below are the top-ten finishers in today's NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race at Thompson won by Glen "who?" Reen. Just kidding, Glen was actually the Sunoco Rookie of the Year on the Tour in 2008.

1) Glen Reen
2) Bobby Santos
3) Matt Hirschman
4) Chuck Hossfeld
5) Tom Rogers Jr.
6) Keith Rocco
7) Eric Beers
8) Patrick Emerling
9) Mike Stefanik
10) Eric Goodale
* A special congrats goes to Wade Cole for his 11th place finish. If you know Wade, and the equipment he doesn't have, then you know how good of a finish this was.
** NJ driver Jamie Tomaino brought the number 99 Supreme Manufacturing Chevrolet home in 17th. 

New Egypt Speedway Rocktoberfest Results

  The results for New Egypt's Rocktoberfest are listed below:

Big-Block Feature#1
 1) Billy Pauch
 2) Gary Butler

Big-Block Feature#2
 1) Rick Laubach
 2) Billy Pauch

Sportsman
 1) Rocco Infante
 2) Mike Lyons

Crate-1 Sportsman
 1) Jordan Henn
 2) Doug Urbano

Outlaw Stock
 1) Vern McLaughlin
 2) Dan Collamer

Fastrak Late Model Feature#1
 1) Rob Ormsbee
 2) PJ Oliver

Fastrak Late Model Feature#2
 1) Mike Wharton
 2) Joe Warren

The next event at New Egypt will be "Halloween Havoc" on Oct. 29.

Qualifying Results for Thompson NASCAR Whelen Modifieds

  Below is a list of the top-10 qualifiers for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race at Thompson on Sunday.

1) Ryan Preece
2) Doug Coby
3) Ted Christopher
4) Todd Szegedy
5) Bobby Santos
6) Timmy Solomito
7) Erick Rudolph
8) Ron Silk
9) Eric Goodale
10 Eric Beers
* The lone NJ representative, Jamie Tomaino, qualified 25th.

Ryan Truex Shows How Good the Joe Gibbs Racing Toyotas Are

  As Ryan Truex struggled with his Pastrana/Waltrip Racing number 99 Toyota for most of the first half of the Nationwide race at Charlotte on Friday night, I couldn't help but realize just how good the Joe Gibbs Racing machines really are.
  Truex, driving a new car, in a deal that was put together about a week before the race, was beset with problems almost from the moment he took the green. He reported the engine being down on power, and pushing water, an almost certain indication of an internal problem. His miserable night ended far short of his goal of capturing the $100,000 Nationwide bonus he was eligible for when a tire going down put him into the wall.
  Meanwhile, the three Joe Gibbs Racing Toyotas with Kyle Busch, Joey Logano, and Brian Scott, managed to run up front for most of the night. While some could say this could also be because of the talent driving those cars, remember Truex had most of his best runs in the JGR number 20.
  The night Truex had in comparison to the JGR drivers clearly shows just how good that team is in comparison to Pastrana/Waltrip Racing. Hopefully, for Ryan's sake he can find a way to become a full-time member of JGR, and for Travis Pastrana's sake, hopefully the PWR team will make significant improvements over the winter.

Jamie Tomaino Needs Good Run at Thompson this Weekend

  While everyone is talking about the two drivers who are set to battle it out this weekend for the 2011 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour title, Ron Silk and Todd Szegedy, there is another points battle which means alot to a New Jersey driver.
  The Modified Tour points fund, currently, only pays out to those drivers occupying the top 15 spots. The driver in 15th heading into the Thompson race is NJ's own Jamie Tomaino. Driving a car sponsored by Supreme Manufacturing, he holds a slim lead of  25 points over Ptrick Emerling, and a little more comfortable 66 points over Eric Berndt.
  For a driver like Jamie, who has supported the Tour since it's early days, and runs on a shoestring budget with a very limited crew, finishing in the top-15 in points would almost feel like winning the overall title.
  The schedule for Thompson is as follows, practice today from 11am to 12:30pm, with qualifying taking place at 2:30pm. There will then be an autograph session on Sunday at 2pm, followed by the final race of the 2011 season for the Whelen Modifieds at 3:30pm.
  * The only other NJ driver scheduled to compete is Jimmy Blewett in the Blewett Motorsports, Ling Trucking number 76.  

New Egypt Speedway Returns with Rocktoberfest Saturday

  After a brief absence of racing at New Egypt Speedway due to both weather, and Super DIRT Week, the track returns to action this Saturday with an exciting program. Rocktoberfest will feature Twin-20's, Sportsman, Crate-1, Outlaw Stocks, and Late Models.
  This is the final night of points for the Big-Blocks, and even with the added drama of Twin-20's, the night will surely see Billy Pauch crowned champion, following what can only be described as a dream season for the Frenchtown, NJ driver. He basically wins the title as soon as he pulls through the pit gate.
  That fact shouldn't stop you from attending, in fact, it may prove to be one of the best nights of racing all year at New Egypt. With Pauch not having to points race, he will be able to go all out. Add to that the additional divisions, and this will be a very full night of racing.
  The weather is supposed to be good, a little chilly, so DVR the Sprint Cup race from Charlotte, and head out to New Egypt to watch some racing you actually don't want to fast forward through. I can't say that about the Cup race.
  Racing starts at 4pm, and adult admission is $25.

Video of Martin Truex Jr. Giving Car to Deserving Family

  Check out this video of NJ Sprint Cup driver Martin Truex Jr., and car owner Michael Waltrip giving a car to a deserving family. Nice to see people who really need the help get it. A special thanks to NAPA who made it all possible.
http://tinyurl.com/3rrqpoj

Jersey Team Won Biggest Race of Weekend at Syracuse - Big Wheel

  While the Garden State was able to claim several victories at the Syracuse Super DIRT Weekend, including Neal Williams in the Sportsman race, and Jimmy Blewett in the 358 Futures race, a race that many consider one of the biggest, and most important of the weekend, was also won by a Jersey team, yet they barely got any media coverage at all for it.
  The annual Big Wheel Race for "Adults", which are held at Club Wago, an area near the backstretch tunnel notorious for partying well into the morning, was dominated by some names Jersey race fans should definitely recognize. Shane Butler drove a vechicle constructed in the fab shop of Dominic Buffalino. Yes the same Buffalino who picked up a win earlier this year in Big-Block competition at New Egypt Speedway, in his own number 2B machine. Supplying the power( pushing), was none other than Kenny Hammond, who has previously competed at both Flemington, on the pavement, and also at New Egypt, both when it was paved, and on dirt, with his number 16 machines. Hammond is now the owner of a very successful fence company, AFX Fence, who supports Buffalino's racing efforts.
  The team, from Jersey, won their heat race, and then the feature, besting about 20 teams for the $60 purse, and trophy. I know this victory probably meant as much to these guys, as if they had won on the big track, as they have been regulars of the infield crowd for many years.
  Congrats. You guys showed them Jerseyans not only know how to race, but party as well! Sometimes, even at the same time!

What I Forgot About Going to Dover

  I, like many of you was once a regular at Dover International Speedway for many years. However, due to a number of factors I one day just decided to stop going, and didn't renew my tickets. I, recently returned to the high-banked concrete oval, as a member of the media, and guest of ESPN. During my visit, I began to remember why I never wanted to miss a race here.
  The first time I went to Dover happened quite by chance. A friend had been given two tickets by a coworker who could not attend the event. We were both local track veterans, but we had never been to a NASCAR Sprint Cup race before. We left for the track early on a Sunday morning, and actually arrived before the sun had come up. Much to our surprise, we had seats inside the enclosed grandstands which were used for the horse racing. Although the seats left something to be desired, especially by two people used to sitting out in the grandstands, the overall experience was so good we decided to return for the next race, but purchase our own tickets, outside.
  We returned for the next race, with two more friends, and even though we sat rather low in the grandstands, we all enjoyed the day. Our group soon grew to eight people, and we even managed to move high enough in the grandstands to have seats with backs, if you've been to Dover you know what a luxury they can be. Back then, not only was it hard to move up, but if you didn't get your deposit in early enough you risked losing the seats you had.
  Eventually, even though we all remained hardcore NASCAR fans, we each as individuals gave up our seats, and stopped going to Dover. There were as many reasons, as there were of us. Expense, travel cost, new families, etc. We relegated ourselves to watching on television, even though the track was less than 3 hours away.
  When I returned to Dover two weekends ago, I almost immediately began to remember why I loved coming here in the first place. The sounds, the smells, the sights, that you just don't get while sitting at home.
  I loved being able to walk from one sovenoir hauler to the next, checking out all the brightly colored shirts, and other merchandise I could only get at the track. Walking beyond the track grounds to check out the vendors selling collectibles from years ago. I have found some things that are very dear to me, out in those fields.
  Seeing the "Monster" in person is just an unreal experience, and great photo opportunity. What doesn't really get publicized, is the base of the statue contains plaques of all the previous winners at Dover, this makes for a great walk down memory lane.
  The people walking around can be quite entertaining as well. You certainly see some passionate fans who express themselves in many ways, whether it is through their clothes, hairstyles, or tattoos. In some ways you even may feel a kinship towards someone wearing the same driver's shirt as you, something you surely don't see many other places.
  There are also the smells. The different varieties of food available, each calling you toward their concession stand as you pass by. The smell of rubber, and fuel, and oils, as the race is being run.
  However, the one sense that really caught my attention most, was the sense of speed. Walking out from under the grandstands, only yards from the track, as a race car passes by is an experience you have to have, and one you just can't explain well enough. I have been on pitroad as a member of a pitcrew, I have been to many tracks. Only at Dover, standing close enough to seemingly reach out and touch the car, do you get the sense of just how fast these drivers go, and how potentially dangerous it is. No offense to the television coverage, but watching at home makes everyone feel they can do it. Being at Dover reaffirms to me the fact that I could never do it.
  I hope I will be able to attend the NASCAR races every time they come to Dover. I really didn't remember what I was missing until I went back. 

Syracuse Dirt Winner Illegal?!

  Stewart Friesen was all smiles in victory lane after winning his second consecutive Super DIRT Week Big-Block race this past Sunday in Syracuse. That smile, however, disappeared after tech inspection, and so did $25,000, half the team's winnings.
  The fuel cell in his winning car was in violation of the DIRTcar volume rules. He, and his team were allowed to keep the win. This certainly cannot sit well with second place finisher Billy Decker.
  Area Auto Racing News will have an exclusive interview with Decker, and his car owner about the matter. That is one issue I am certainly looking forward too.

Change for Ryan Truex at Charlotte

  I initially posted here that Ryan Truex would be racing the same car his older brother, Martin Truex Jr., had used last October to finish second in the Nationwide race at Charlotte. While that car will be at the track on Friday, he certainly hopes it doesn't make it off the truck, as it will serve as the team's back-up car.
  The Pastrana/Waltrip team has decided to bring a new Toyota to Charlotte for Ryan in his quest to capture the $100,000 Nationwide bonus he qualified for at Richmond, earlier this year. The team, however, will use the same set-up that allowed Martin to run so well.
  The most surprising element to all of this is the team and driver have yet to secure a sponsor for the race at Charlotte. As one of only four drivers eligible for the bonus, Ryan, will certainly generate a tremendous amount of media exposure, before and during the race.

Syracuse Dirt Week Big-Block Results

  For those of you like me who were unable to attend Super Dirt Week in Syracuse, but would still like to know the results, I have listed the top-five finishers in the Big-Block event today, below.

1) Stewart Friesen
2) Billy Decker
3) Vic Coffey
4) Tim Fuller
5) Pat Ward

Danica Patrick Will Win in NASCAR in 2012

  I know this is a blog about New Jersey racing, for the most part, but I feel like I really need to comment on this. I recently read a piece by Ernie Saxton in the Area Auto Racing News, where he stated that Danica Patrick had virtually no chance to win a race in NASCAR in 2012, or possibly ever.
  I have to start by saying I respect Ernie immensely for his incredible body of work, and especially for his tireless lobbying to get Richie Evans into the NASCAR Hall of Fame. However, I must say I disagree with him when it comes to Danica.
  I would also like it to be known I am not particularly a Danica Patrick fan. I have, though, noticed several things I really like about the GoDaddy.com driver lately.
  First, her decision to leave Indy Cars behind, and concentrate on her NASCAR career. I really thought she might continue down the road of splitting her time between the two series until she either won the Indy 500, or just couldn't get a quality ride for the race. Her decision to concentrate solely on NASCAR shows the commitment one needs to be successful in stock car racing.
  Secondly, she is showing signs of improvement. While she may not be ready yet to win at a place like Kansas, today. She is now at least running on the lead lap, and actually outperforming more than half the field, all who certainly have more experience in the heavier Nationwide cars. In fact, her recent performances at the restrictor-plate tracks have seen her not only run well, but even actually lead the race.
  But, perhaps, the biggest reason why I think Danica Patrick will win a NASCAR race in 2012 is her change of attitude. She has seemed to found that perfect blend of being humble enough to ask her fellow drivers, and crew, for help when she needs it, yet still maintain that chip on her shoulder when she needs it most. Whether that is going after a driver she feels has done her wrong, or despite putting in a solid effort, not being satisfied with anything besides winning.
  Danica Patrick will win a NASCAR Nationwide race in 2012, I am almost certain about that. Sorry Ernie, but it will happen. At least you'll have material for a new article, one on just how wrong you were.

Jersey Driver Picks Up Win in Syracuse

  No it wasn't Brett Hearn, Ryan Godown, Jimmy Horton, or even Jimmy Blewett who was the New Jersey driver who picked up a victory today in Syracuse. It wasn't even in the 358 race, but it still was a Garden State victory.
  Neal Williams, of Pittsgrove, New Jersey captured the Sportsman Championsip 30 for the second year in a row. The 21 year old was nothing short of dominant as he also set fast time in qualifying by more than half a second over his nearest competitor.
  Congratulations Neal, and good luck to our Jersey representatives in the Big-Block race. Bring another trophy home to Jersey guys!

Ryan Truex to Run Brother Martin's Car at Charlotte, Still Seeking Sponsorship

  While Ryan Truex has been unable to secure a sponsor to chase the $100,000 bonus he is qualified to run for at Charlotte Motor Speedway, he has been able to at least find a car. Not just any car, however, and not just for any team.
  Martin Truex Sr. told me at Dover he was unwilling to put Ryan in a car just to be in the field. He wanted him in good equipment that had a chance to win. Well I guess if a car is good enough for his older son Martin Truex Jr., driver of the NAPA Toyota in Sprint Cup, then it will be good enough for Ryan.
  Ryan Truex will actually return to the team he started the year with, Pastrana/Waltrip Racing, however he will not be driving one of the cars he drove earlier in the season. He will actually be at the wheel of the Toyota Martin drove to a second place finish last October as number 00.
  He will also have the crew chief, Mike Greci, and the team that took him to two K&N Pro Series East titles in 2009 and 2010. This, and knowing the history of the car he will be driving, should give him the confidence he needs to not only pursue that $100,000 Nationwide bonus but quite possibly contend for the win.

Ryan Truex Not Only Jersey Guy to Cheer for at Kansas Today

  When the NASCAR Nationwide race takes the green today at Kansas, most New Jersey race fans know of the name Ryan Truex. He is not only the younger brother of Sprint Cup driver Martin Truex Jr., but he is, currently, the driver of the number 20 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing. He is not, however, the only representative of the Garden State we should be cheering for this afternoon.
  Bruce Cook is another of those Jersey guy goes South stories that populate the NASCAR garages that we really don't hear much about because they are not drivers, anymore. You see, Cook, at one time was quite a competitor in NJ auto racing. He was always a driver capable of winning each week with his meticously prepared number 84 Street Stock, at Flemington Speedway in it's asphalt days.
  Cook took his skills, and attention to detail, to the NASCAR shops, and now is one of the top employees of Kevin Harvick Inc. Depending on the weekend, Cook may find himself as a car chief, a crew chief on a Camping World truck, or like this weekend, the crew chief of a NASCAR Nationwide car.
  At Kansas he will be crew chief of the number 4 Hunt's Pizza Chevrolet driven by Kevin Harvick. So he may actually have a better chance of ending up in victory lane than Truex. Something he has already done in 2011, at Daytona, with Tony Stewart at the wheel.
  We at Racing Aroud Jersey love it when our Garden State natives represent our state so well. We really love it when they bring home a win. Today we have two legitimate shots. Cook and Truex. Jersey racers rule! 

Jersey Presence at Syracuse Super Dirt Week 40

  For fans of dirt racing this weekend's Super Dirt Week in Syracuse is truly the Daytona 500 of their sport. Although New Jersey is home to only two dirt tracks, Bridgeport Speedway and New Egypt Speedway, and neither is affiliated with the Dirt Series, the Garden State will be well represented, if not in numbers, then quality.
  Certainly the best chance for a win in the Big-Block event for New Jersey will be Brett Hearn, however there are several others who hope to contend for the prestigious event. Jimmy Horton, a former winner, will be joined by Rich Scagliotta, and Ryan Godown. While Hearn may have the best chance, and Godown will be driving a car very familiar to NJ race fans, the 747, the most interesting driver from the Garden State may be one making his first visit to Syracuse as a driver.
  Jimmy Blewett is a very accomplished asphalt driver, who decided to take up the new challenge of racing on dirt in 2011. He competed most of the year in the Big-Blocks at New Egypt Speedway, although he did compete in several NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour events, and return to his home track, Wall Stadium, to win a race run in his late brother's memory, the John Blewett III Memorial 76-lap Race.
  Blewett is entered in the 358 event at Syracuse, and by all early accounts has adapted well to the flat, hard, dirt mile. While this may be surprising to many, maybe it really shouldn't be. Afterall, the Syracuse mile runs more like a slick, fast, asphalt track. I have felt for years that an asphalt driver, with good equipment, should be able to do well at Syracuse.
  Well Jimmy Blewett certainly has good equipment, and he is not just any asphalt driver. He is a proven winner who now has a full year of dirt racing under his belt.
  So while the rest of the world of dirt racing wouldn't be shocked if a New Jersey driver won at Syracuse, especially if that driver was named Hearn, Horton, or Godown. I would not be surprised, at all, if that Garden State winner actually turns out to be named Blewett.
  It would, afterall, confirm my belief that Syracuse actually drives much more like an asphalt track, than your typical Northeast dirt track.
  Good luck to all the competitors, especially those from Jersey.   

Travis Pastrana Who? That's What Yahoo Asked Me.

  I not only write for this blog, Racing Aound Jersey, but also NJ.com, and Yahoo. I try to focus on local auto racing stories for the two sites based in the Garden State, and anything I feel might have a broader appeal I submit to Yahoo.
  I recently was fortunate enough to be invited for a tour of the ESPN compound at Dover International Speedway, during which time I met Travis Pastrana. The odd part of the meeting, as it struck me, was actually that Pastrana approached me to introduce himself.
  I thought this would be a great opportunity for an article on Yahoo tied to how quickly I have gone from a part-time blogger, to a member of the NASCARMedia, being contacted by ESPN, and having Travis Pastrana introduce himself to me.
  Imagine my surprise when I received an email from Yahoo notifying me that they didn't feel the person I wrote about, Travis Pastrana, was well known enough to be searched by others. While I don't think he is necessarily a household name, he is both an X-Games star, who is expanding his career into NASCAR, and the owner of a Monster Truck. Certainly well-known enough that he will be a very popular search any time he is involved with either NASCAR or the X-Games.
  Sometimes even the "experts" get it wrong. Maybe next time I should write about meeeting Margerate Cho. Who? Exactly!  

Latest on Ryan Truex Sponsorship Search

  The deal Ryan Truex signed with Joe Gibbs Racing is now halfway through it's six races, and quite frankly there doesn't seem to be much in the way of sponsorship in the pipeline for the young New Jersey driver. This despite both strong qualifying efforts, and solid runs.
  While it should not be surprising that even a driver as talented as Truex would be struggling to find sponsorship in these tough economic times, afterall, even Richard Childress Racing couldn't secure sponsorship for Clint Bowyer, what is surprising is that no one is coming forward for the Charlotte race.
  Truex is one of only four drivers eligible for a $100,000 bonus provided by Nationwide at the Charlotte race, based on his top four finish in Richmond. Despite the added publicity this will certainly bring to the driver, and whatever team he would be driving for, no one has stepped forward with a quality opportunity.
  I asked about Ryan's sponsorship prospects for both Charlotte, and the rest of the year in a brief conversation with his father Martin Truex Sr. on pitroad at Dover, just prior to the start of the Nationwide race.
  He told me while they have been approached by several teams about putting Ryan in their cars, none of them were what he considered quality opportunities. While he wants his son to be in as many races as possible, he also wants him to be in good, safe, equipment, that gives him a chance to really showcase his talents.
  It was really nice to see a father, Martin Truex Sr., truly looking out for the best interests of his son. He knows at the age of 19, Ryan, has time on his side. He also knows drivers who take rides just to be in the race rarely advance their careers much farther than that. The last thing he wants for Ryan is to become a start-and-park driver, especially before his career has even really begun.
  Martin Truex Sr. continues to look for sponsorship opportunities for Ryan, for not only Charlotte, but the future as well. He knows with the right opportunity it might not be long before we see the family dream come true. Having the Truex brothers join the Busch brothers at the top of the sport, NASCAR Sprint Cup.

Things You Never Knew Behind the Scenes of ESPN at a NASCAR Event

  I am not just the writer of this blog, and owner of RacingAroundJersey.com, I also write for NJ.com, owned by the Star Ledger, and the largest website in NJ. It was through NJ.com that I was contacted by ESPN, and asked about whether I would like to interview Rich Feinberg, the man in charge of all motorsports, and the X-Games for ESPN and ABC, while at Dover. Of couse I accepted, but what I got was so much more. Although I will be doing many stories about what I learned while inside the ESPN compound at Dover, the first I wanted to share with you was some of the things you may not realize when you tune in each week to watch a NASCAR race on ESPN or ABC.
  First of all it takes more than 200 people, every week, to broadcast a NASCAR race. They also bring more trucks and equipment, every week, than is used to cover the Super Bowl.
  Also, they record the radio conversation of every team, all 43, every weekend, and archive them. Although you may only hear a few bits, and pieces, each week, they have them all.
  The helicopter used for every broadcast is trailered to each event, not flown.
  ESPN/ABC brings 2 generators to each event, not risking the use of local power. They also broadcast to 2 satellites at the same time in case one should have a problem.
  More than 60 cameras are used during a broadcast, either manned or robotic.
  ESPN/ABC brings their own caterer to the track every weekend who supplies food to all 200+ employees so they have food they both know is good, and can trust.
  These are just some of the more amazing things I took from my visit to the ESPN compound. I also got to meet Travis Pastrana, Carl Edwards, and many of the on-air talent. I will be doing posts on much of this shortly both on NJ.com, and here in Racing Around Jersey, so stay tuned.

Stafford NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour Photos

  Here are some of the photos, from the official NASCARMedia website, of the NASCAR Whelen Modifieds at Stafford. Enjoy.

Stafford Results NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour

  For all my fellow NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour fans who have yet to see the results for Stafford on Sunday I have provided the top ten below.

1) Ted Christopher
2) Ryan Preece
3) Donny Lia
4) Eric Beers
5) Erick Rudolph
6) Kevin Goodale
7) Ron Silk
8) Matt Hirschman
9) Doug Coby
10) Justin Bonsignore
* Jersey note: Jamie Tomaino finished 15th
** Ron Silk heads to the final event at Thompson on Oct. 16 with a 57 point lead for the series title.

Truex Presence at Turkey Derby?

  As I approached Martin Truex Sr., shortly after his son Martin Jr. had taken the pole for today's NASCAR Sprint Cup race, and just prior to his other son Ryan starting the Nationwide race, I wanted to ask him a question no one else would surely ask.
  "What are the chances of having either, or both, of your boys in cars for the Turkey Derby, at Wall Stadium?", I asked.
  The response I got kinda surprised me.
  "It's possible", he said.
  Now in all fairness, I think I kind of caught him off-guard with the question, afterall, here he was at Dover, with one son about to start the Nationwide race from 4th starting spot.
  However, I have to tell you if there is even the remote chance of getting either one, or both, to race in the Turkey Derby, Wall Stadium management needs to do their best at getting that to happen.
  I guess we'll see, afterall, "It's possible"