He runs the B12. He is from Gibson City and in my opinion is probably one of the top 5 drivers, maybe top 3 drivers to come from the state of IL. He wound up with the name of the, "Flatland Flash", but he's also been called more. I'ver heard everything from, Mr. Excitement to a no good SOB who can drive. However or whatever he's been called through the years, he certainly earned his rank and certainly shows no signs of slowing down.
I say that only cause of what I seen this past summer. Here I see Kevin Weaver pretty much about out of his run of being a top driver to someone who is slowly passing his time, finally tame the dirt tracks here in IL last summer. He'd gone through two different cars and never really did see anything that was going to get him back up to being competitive with the area's young guns. Then in a moment of what would appear to be a racers desperation, he decided to change.
Kevin dug out the Bill West Chassis he had in his shop that he was certain was not the answer to start his season. With nothing to lose and a season pretty much on the ropes, he decided, what could it hurt. He decided to dig it out, build it again and see what it had in store. Turned out it may of been a career endind decision. His season instantly changed.
He strapped in that Bill West chassis and there was instant change. The car had forward bite and Kevin was moving forward. He started almost dead last in Kankakee on a Wednesday night to finished 3rd. He went on to finish in the top five for the three weeks and picked up a much needed confidence builder when he tood the fair race at Fairbury. Kevin again was someone who had a car who could compete. He was back and a smile was on his face.
Kevin starts his 25th season of dirt late model racing again this year. Although his season came with a blown motor leading his heat race at the Prairie Dirt, he still knows he has a car that can compete. I've said for years, he can still drive and much like most that has been around the track a few times knows that when he has a car to compete, anything is possible.
Good luck in year 25.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Monday, December 5, 2011
Drivers Off Seasons
Here it is in December and the season is officially over. Christmas is around the cornor and there is not a driver that I am aware of looking at a list of up coming races. So I thought about what usually takes places in the off season. For a lot of the full timers, it is a chance to get some much needed time at home while they reflect on the past season and think about the upcoming one.
Some driver are not heavily involved with prepping of new cars. No, some drivers are usually meeting with their PR people, lawyers and bankers to discuss the upcoming season. By the way, earliest racing in 2012 starts in February in Florida, in sequence with the Nextel Cup drivers getting ready for the Daytona 500. Many dirt late model drivers and renegotiating with sponsors. Some might be looking to take out a loan or two for the upcoming season if the previous didn't turn out as well as planned. Some are also taking time to do stuff for fans like small meet and greets or doing interview for magazines.
In regards to the machines, the driver and crew meet to discuss their strategy for the 2012 speedweeks and what they need to get ready with. What kind of cars should they prep. Where the chassis competitive that they ran the year before. Are their motor programs solid. Are they happy with the horsepower they were getting during the season. Some drivers will opt to keep running the cars they had from the year before so some offeseaons work may be less for other drivers.
In summary, it is a time of rest, but with a short offseason a lot of decicisons need to be made. Come Jan 1, expect to hear the air compressors running more and the the sounds of dynos running more.
Some driver are not heavily involved with prepping of new cars. No, some drivers are usually meeting with their PR people, lawyers and bankers to discuss the upcoming season. By the way, earliest racing in 2012 starts in February in Florida, in sequence with the Nextel Cup drivers getting ready for the Daytona 500. Many dirt late model drivers and renegotiating with sponsors. Some might be looking to take out a loan or two for the upcoming season if the previous didn't turn out as well as planned. Some are also taking time to do stuff for fans like small meet and greets or doing interview for magazines.
In regards to the machines, the driver and crew meet to discuss their strategy for the 2012 speedweeks and what they need to get ready with. What kind of cars should they prep. Where the chassis competitive that they ran the year before. Are their motor programs solid. Are they happy with the horsepower they were getting during the season. Some drivers will opt to keep running the cars they had from the year before so some offeseaons work may be less for other drivers.
In summary, it is a time of rest, but with a short offseason a lot of decicisons need to be made. Come Jan 1, expect to hear the air compressors running more and the the sounds of dynos running more.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Newspaper Publications
Over the years, getting news about the dirt tracks came pretty easy. If you attended a track, a lot of times you could pick up the latest copy of Mid American Auto Racing News. It was chaulk full of results of the dirt tracks from Michigan, Kentucky and even way down into Georgia. It was always full of complete write ups from the writer of the tracks and even had all teh qualifying times and results of the heats. Other publications were more specific to asphalt racing. One of those was the natioanl stock car racing sporting news...or better known as Speed Sport. Speed Sport has all kinds of opinionated jouran entries form all their editors. The top editor at that time is the nations tell all in auto racing, Chris Economaki.
What is common with those two publications? Well they are both defunct, or are darn near.I did some invetigating and found that Speed Sport know longer runs a printed version of their newspaper. Chris Economaki no longer does his column for each week of racing...and more or less is retired. Mid American Auto Racing completely went out of business about 4 years ago. Both papers cited the same reasoning for having to call it quits. Lack of subscriptions.
It shouldn't come as any surprise that these newpapers have falled so hard. The internet is our one stop shopping mall to find out everything we want to know...and now. No longer do we have to wait for the print up, we can get instant twitter feeds or postings to message boards not any longer than 2-3 minutes after a feature is finished. What is missing? Just the mental image of how the race started, progressed and ended. Now we are stuck with one sided fans who see the race for how their favorite driver drove it, not how the race actually went on.
So the point? Not really one I guess, just a note that with the internet in place, may more physical papers will fall by the wayside. Dirt Late Model Magazine is holding on with a nice monthly print out. For the likes of us who like to read while relaxing in a chair, couch, or hot bath....we pray it doesn't become the next victim
What is common with those two publications? Well they are both defunct, or are darn near.I did some invetigating and found that Speed Sport know longer runs a printed version of their newspaper. Chris Economaki no longer does his column for each week of racing...and more or less is retired. Mid American Auto Racing completely went out of business about 4 years ago. Both papers cited the same reasoning for having to call it quits. Lack of subscriptions.
It shouldn't come as any surprise that these newpapers have falled so hard. The internet is our one stop shopping mall to find out everything we want to know...and now. No longer do we have to wait for the print up, we can get instant twitter feeds or postings to message boards not any longer than 2-3 minutes after a feature is finished. What is missing? Just the mental image of how the race started, progressed and ended. Now we are stuck with one sided fans who see the race for how their favorite driver drove it, not how the race actually went on.
So the point? Not really one I guess, just a note that with the internet in place, may more physical papers will fall by the wayside. Dirt Late Model Magazine is holding on with a nice monthly print out. For the likes of us who like to read while relaxing in a chair, couch, or hot bath....we pray it doesn't become the next victim
Friday, December 2, 2011
Best Paint Schemes
Drivers are recognized by their number and sometimes their sponsors. It is their identitiy within the sport and really is a selling point in their popularity. However what really makes a driver recognizable is the paint/color scheme on the car. Over the years, drivers have stuck to their favorite paint scheme and if they had to change, it was likely due to sponsor affiliate. Lets take a look at some of the more popular
Basic blue and white. Not real fancy, but was certainly the popular color of 1st ballot inductee Jeff Purvis. It also was the popular color for the never too fancy, just get it done Jack Boggs. Dennis Erb runs a light blue and white car. From a local perspective, Joe Williams had a blue and white color scheme as well as local legend, Roger Long.
Red and yellow. Billy Moyer can lay claim to that scheme and forever will be recgnzied in those famed colors. Over the years, i've seen some of those same color schemes. Some were from Shannon Babb (who drove for Billy a few years), Kris Patterson, Don O'Neil. However when you think red and yellow, you immediately are looking for that fames 21.
In recent years though, the color scheme of black, green and white have steadily rised. It is the famed colors of Scott Bloomquist and pretty much the pioneers. Charlie Swartz ran a white and green car, but when scott took the colors, he made the green more like the highlighted colors. Since then, drivers like Jason Feger and Jimmy Owens have similar paint schemes. Owens did drive for Bloomquist at one time. I have to admit, this color scheme is pretty cool, but I like brightness, so i'd have to pass.
So as long as a driver has unique paint scheme and is very good and consistant, it is the most recognizable aspect of a driver. In some cases, more than the driver's number.
Basic blue and white. Not real fancy, but was certainly the popular color of 1st ballot inductee Jeff Purvis. It also was the popular color for the never too fancy, just get it done Jack Boggs. Dennis Erb runs a light blue and white car. From a local perspective, Joe Williams had a blue and white color scheme as well as local legend, Roger Long.
Red and yellow. Billy Moyer can lay claim to that scheme and forever will be recgnzied in those famed colors. Over the years, i've seen some of those same color schemes. Some were from Shannon Babb (who drove for Billy a few years), Kris Patterson, Don O'Neil. However when you think red and yellow, you immediately are looking for that fames 21.
In recent years though, the color scheme of black, green and white have steadily rised. It is the famed colors of Scott Bloomquist and pretty much the pioneers. Charlie Swartz ran a white and green car, but when scott took the colors, he made the green more like the highlighted colors. Since then, drivers like Jason Feger and Jimmy Owens have similar paint schemes. Owens did drive for Bloomquist at one time. I have to admit, this color scheme is pretty cool, but I like brightness, so i'd have to pass.
So as long as a driver has unique paint scheme and is very good and consistant, it is the most recognizable aspect of a driver. In some cases, more than the driver's number.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Driver Web Site
Had the opportunity to explore some driver's websites tonight. Web sites are a must anymore for a driver to gain fans. Their sites are the lifeline to tell a fan where he/she is racing as well as indicates to a track that he or she is coming. Much like other websites, some are very sophisticated with neat graphics and loads of advertising. Others are plain jane HTML coded sites with just regular driver information and maybe a picture or two
One of the longest running websites that has retained its original website is that of the 25 year veteran race driver Kevin Weaver. Kevin has plenty of tech support to keep his site up to do date. Theses days the design and update have been handed over to other personel and they have noted the information at the bottom of the page.
Another site I found interesting to visit is that of pro driver Billy Moyer. What makes his site very neat is the photos he has that you can look at. Billy's operation is one of big money and you get a change to see the operation in pictures. You see 3 cars that Billy has in his shop that appear to be race ready and just ready to roll out. You get a chance to see his top of the line tour bus that he spends most of his summer in. However the neatest of all pictures to view on his site is that of the trophy room. I've never seen so many plaques and trophys in one room. It is really a very neat thing to see
In summary, a driver's web site is a neat way to get to know more about your favorite drivers. I recommend looking at pictures and the bio's of the driver. Lot of neat facts you'd never think you know about your favorite driver.
One of the longest running websites that has retained its original website is that of the 25 year veteran race driver Kevin Weaver. Kevin has plenty of tech support to keep his site up to do date. Theses days the design and update have been handed over to other personel and they have noted the information at the bottom of the page.
Another site I found interesting to visit is that of pro driver Billy Moyer. What makes his site very neat is the photos he has that you can look at. Billy's operation is one of big money and you get a change to see the operation in pictures. You see 3 cars that Billy has in his shop that appear to be race ready and just ready to roll out. You get a chance to see his top of the line tour bus that he spends most of his summer in. However the neatest of all pictures to view on his site is that of the trophy room. I've never seen so many plaques and trophys in one room. It is really a very neat thing to see
In summary, a driver's web site is a neat way to get to know more about your favorite drivers. I recommend looking at pictures and the bio's of the driver. Lot of neat facts you'd never think you know about your favorite driver.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Racing Through the Eyes 5 Year Old
So I guess growing up with a late model in my dad's shop, it wasn't too hard to get into racing. I remember when we were little kids, we'd race year round with our hot wheels and matchbox cars. We had drivers names for every single car that we had, and we had plenty. Our race track was in the dining room. Nice swade carpet that looked like grooves. We race on our knees while the commentary was done like it was on Friday nights and Farmer City and Saturday nights in Fairbury. As we got older, we took our racing to the outdoors and into the dirt...where it was meant. We created our own Eldora, Pensboro, Clarksville and just to make sure it was like the real thing, we hung a flashlight out at night to get the actual feel.
Funny how things come full circle. My nephew and son are not the sons of actual drivers. However what rubbed off on us back in those days seems to have done the same on them. My son has a every growing population of matchbox and hotwheels cars now. Sometimes on occasions, while at grandmas, he'll run across a car and ask if we played with it. Some I still recognize, others not so much. Yet that one car he asked about, was Ray Godsey...and I didn't have to thing back real hard.
The love of the track starts at that point. Getting to see your first race and then getting those little cars that make your imagination run wild. From that point on, you never forget where it was you started and what you did to pass the time before the real thing woud begin. My father always said we actually put rubber into the carpet from all those cars we ran. Now it is just putting rubber on the road to get there.
Funny how things come full circle. My nephew and son are not the sons of actual drivers. However what rubbed off on us back in those days seems to have done the same on them. My son has a every growing population of matchbox and hotwheels cars now. Sometimes on occasions, while at grandmas, he'll run across a car and ask if we played with it. Some I still recognize, others not so much. Yet that one car he asked about, was Ray Godsey...and I didn't have to thing back real hard.
The love of the track starts at that point. Getting to see your first race and then getting those little cars that make your imagination run wild. From that point on, you never forget where it was you started and what you did to pass the time before the real thing woud begin. My father always said we actually put rubber into the carpet from all those cars we ran. Now it is just putting rubber on the road to get there.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Tire Rules
So many divisions, so many rules. What is the most common amongst them? Good ol tires.
UMP racing is the one league that set the standard for you race what you bring. Only thing that had to be made sure of is that you didn't come in light at the scales and you weren't running with what was known as a bottle. For those wondering what I mean, that means a turbo booster that would allow a driver that extra shot to make up some time, or leave the pack. But in regards to tires, you ran what could win on.
Along came other divisions who felt that the tire rule in UMP was too loose. Some series felt that if we can limit the amount of tires a team can use, or they can regulate the type of tire they have to run, the field would be more equal. Well a divisioin called the Northern All Stars decided to run that type of series. They mandated that drivers that wanted to compete had to run by their rules. You had to run a 30 compound and it had to pass northern all stars officials. If a driver came on the the track with the compound grinded off or covered, you were sent back to pits to change the rubber. The N.A.S series is still in effect. I do not know if the they still run the all 30 rule or not
I've heard it said the best series that has yet to come of age would be one that would say, ok, you run only 2 compounds and the driver makes the choice. A 20 compound tire or a 40 compound. Most of which are designed to last 30-40 laps. However, the harder the compound, the longer it takes to come in and if you play the cards right, you may have enough tire left for that late run. The opposite can be said for 20's. Very little cautions and the driver builds up a lead, it is his/hers to win.
UMP racing is the one league that set the standard for you race what you bring. Only thing that had to be made sure of is that you didn't come in light at the scales and you weren't running with what was known as a bottle. For those wondering what I mean, that means a turbo booster that would allow a driver that extra shot to make up some time, or leave the pack. But in regards to tires, you ran what could win on.
Along came other divisions who felt that the tire rule in UMP was too loose. Some series felt that if we can limit the amount of tires a team can use, or they can regulate the type of tire they have to run, the field would be more equal. Well a divisioin called the Northern All Stars decided to run that type of series. They mandated that drivers that wanted to compete had to run by their rules. You had to run a 30 compound and it had to pass northern all stars officials. If a driver came on the the track with the compound grinded off or covered, you were sent back to pits to change the rubber. The N.A.S series is still in effect. I do not know if the they still run the all 30 rule or not
I've heard it said the best series that has yet to come of age would be one that would say, ok, you run only 2 compounds and the driver makes the choice. A 20 compound tire or a 40 compound. Most of which are designed to last 30-40 laps. However, the harder the compound, the longer it takes to come in and if you play the cards right, you may have enough tire left for that late run. The opposite can be said for 20's. Very little cautions and the driver builds up a lead, it is his/hers to win.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Hall Of Famers
As to date, no IL drivers are in the dirt late model hall of fame that reside here in IL. IL does have a few drivers though that at some time will make nominations. While we don't know who they are, I thought it would be fun to throw out a few drivers and why they'll likely be nominated.
Known as "the tall cool one", Bob Pierce of Danville is no strager to racing fans. While driver since the 70s and retiring in the 00's, Bob amassed many feature wins. Upon those wins, most of them were here in IL. Bob took home numerous summernational races, Prairie Dirt Classic and Harold and Review 100 wins as well. He raced with the PRO dirt circuit some in the 80's and he a mulitiple world 100 qualifier The best feat of these races was not that fact he won them, but he won them in consecutive years.
Roger Long is know as the Racing Farmer. Roger began racing in the 70's and certainly was a stron competitor from Kanakee to Springfield. Roger amassed many local feature victories and was usually found riding the rail in fashion. He retired in the 00's and its been noted that he would of likely retired in the 90's had it not been several drivers asked him to drive as a part of a team. He drove for Gary May and long time veteran IL racer, Kevin Weaver.
Flatland Flash driver from Gibson City will likey make nomination as well. Kevin came to fame in the late 80s' and 90's. He is a UMP points series and summernational series champion. He has won numerous features throughout IL and in the midwest. He like Bob and Roger is a Hearld Review and Prairie Dirt Classic champion. He is a multiple world 100 qualifier and his 1999 runner up finish still stands best among any driver who has participated in the World 100.
Those 3 in my opinion will be sure nominated drivers and are due to earn the award in my opinion.
Known as "the tall cool one", Bob Pierce of Danville is no strager to racing fans. While driver since the 70s and retiring in the 00's, Bob amassed many feature wins. Upon those wins, most of them were here in IL. Bob took home numerous summernational races, Prairie Dirt Classic and Harold and Review 100 wins as well. He raced with the PRO dirt circuit some in the 80's and he a mulitiple world 100 qualifier The best feat of these races was not that fact he won them, but he won them in consecutive years.
Roger Long is know as the Racing Farmer. Roger began racing in the 70's and certainly was a stron competitor from Kanakee to Springfield. Roger amassed many local feature victories and was usually found riding the rail in fashion. He retired in the 00's and its been noted that he would of likely retired in the 90's had it not been several drivers asked him to drive as a part of a team. He drove for Gary May and long time veteran IL racer, Kevin Weaver.
Flatland Flash driver from Gibson City will likey make nomination as well. Kevin came to fame in the late 80s' and 90's. He is a UMP points series and summernational series champion. He has won numerous features throughout IL and in the midwest. He like Bob and Roger is a Hearld Review and Prairie Dirt Classic champion. He is a multiple world 100 qualifier and his 1999 runner up finish still stands best among any driver who has participated in the World 100.
Those 3 in my opinion will be sure nominated drivers and are due to earn the award in my opinion.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Smoke's Win Good For Dirt
There are lot that like him and a lot that hate him. But make no mistake about it, he's the best thing that every happened to any sort of racing on dirt. Tony Steweart 2011 NASCAR champion.
He is the spokesman of the a sport that not until the last 5-6 years received any mentioning, or very little of. It isn't Dirt Late models either. He loves to race and he, like Kenny Shrader, will take race anything that has 4 wheels. So why is his championship good for dirt...it gives dirt more exposure with the new king of NASCAR.
There were talks of more TV for the sport of DLM racing and thanks to the cable channels like SPEED...there has been. But when the king of NASCAR, ok, the newest champion wants to make it happen now, they are sure to come running. Ecspecially if Tony plans to strap in and participate. If they need any any more reason than that, well they are obviously wanting the ghost or race car drivers past to come in as well.
Bottom line is as long as Tony is racing and winning on asphalt, it means well for his program as well as the sport of dirt late model, sprint car, and any other series that Tony has participated in. People will continue to listen to Tony and take his advice of what is needed to be done to improve various types of dirt racing. It is only a matter of time that you may see a few more Eldora type tracks in the future. Eh....well there really is only 1 Eldora.
He is the spokesman of the a sport that not until the last 5-6 years received any mentioning, or very little of. It isn't Dirt Late models either. He loves to race and he, like Kenny Shrader, will take race anything that has 4 wheels. So why is his championship good for dirt...it gives dirt more exposure with the new king of NASCAR.
There were talks of more TV for the sport of DLM racing and thanks to the cable channels like SPEED...there has been. But when the king of NASCAR, ok, the newest champion wants to make it happen now, they are sure to come running. Ecspecially if Tony plans to strap in and participate. If they need any any more reason than that, well they are obviously wanting the ghost or race car drivers past to come in as well.
Bottom line is as long as Tony is racing and winning on asphalt, it means well for his program as well as the sport of dirt late model, sprint car, and any other series that Tony has participated in. People will continue to listen to Tony and take his advice of what is needed to be done to improve various types of dirt racing. It is only a matter of time that you may see a few more Eldora type tracks in the future. Eh....well there really is only 1 Eldora.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Summernational Talk
Decided to talk some on the Summernatinal that are held from the middle of June throug the middle of July. It is nicknamed the "hell tour" and for good reason. It is a grueling 30 nights of racing that can either make or break a drivers seaon. They call it the money season cause most of these races feature at the minimum a 5000 dollar pay out to the winner. Winning the series points series is also a big plus as it comes with a very nice pay out as well.
But has the summernationals lost it luster. Do fans really get their money's worth when the tour shows up at a participating track? I'd have to say more now that ever.
The tour to me is way to long and it open for drivers to jump on and off the tour. Some nights, you get 5 drivers of national exposure and at other times, you get 10 drivers. Fans pay 20 bucks at the gate to hopefully get a glimpse of a Billy Moyer or a Brian Birkhoffer. However, some of these tracks that are having shows do not have the money to ensure these drivers will come. So fans are forced to pay double the price to watch a lot of the same drivers they can see at a regualr weekly show.
My solution...stagger the event ... a few back to back nights, a few consecutive nights off and I think drivers will stick to running the entire schedule. I really also think that a minimum of 10,000 be the paying feature event. Drop the 5,000 shows and it free up some dates...and create more rain dates...something that has been a problem in the past. It makes for a better chance for top drivers to continually follow the series.
But has the summernationals lost it luster. Do fans really get their money's worth when the tour shows up at a participating track? I'd have to say more now that ever.
The tour to me is way to long and it open for drivers to jump on and off the tour. Some nights, you get 5 drivers of national exposure and at other times, you get 10 drivers. Fans pay 20 bucks at the gate to hopefully get a glimpse of a Billy Moyer or a Brian Birkhoffer. However, some of these tracks that are having shows do not have the money to ensure these drivers will come. So fans are forced to pay double the price to watch a lot of the same drivers they can see at a regualr weekly show.
My solution...stagger the event ... a few back to back nights, a few consecutive nights off and I think drivers will stick to running the entire schedule. I really also think that a minimum of 10,000 be the paying feature event. Drop the 5,000 shows and it free up some dates...and create more rain dates...something that has been a problem in the past. It makes for a better chance for top drivers to continually follow the series.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Racing T-Shirts
Growing up around the spot of dirt late model racing here in east central IL, there was one I accumulated a lot of throughout my younger days. Driver's racing t-shirts. I may not have the same shirts I had, but I do have the logo of a Joe Williams shirt that now is sown onto a quilt my grandmother made. I've sot several on that quilt...and I have a lot still stuffed in a sack that I just couldn't bring myself to throw out.
What is it about a racing shirt that that just makes us have to have it? Is it our real fandom of the driver we follow? Is it the color of the shirt? What makes us shell out $25 for a piece of cotton that technically goes right out of style the very next year? I don't have the answer to it cause as I stated, when I was younger I bought the newest Billy Moyer shirt, Roger Long, Bob Pierce, Daryl Lanigon...well you get the idea
Over the summer I took a look a some of the shirts that are being sold with the intentions of getting one for my son. As I browsed, I had to say I wasn't all that impressed with what I see for designs. Most of the shirts are just cluttered with too much. The logo's of the car that look like and action shot are to to bright or to wild to get a understanding who is on the shirt. Throw in all the extra graphics, and you really have to get up close and personal to see who it is. I have the logo of the first Jeff Purvis shirt my mom got me and you had no problem understanding who was on that shirt.
Perhaps the designers need a check of how things were done in the past and just moderize it a bit. Then I might actually might by another or a few to add to my now old collection.
What is it about a racing shirt that that just makes us have to have it? Is it our real fandom of the driver we follow? Is it the color of the shirt? What makes us shell out $25 for a piece of cotton that technically goes right out of style the very next year? I don't have the answer to it cause as I stated, when I was younger I bought the newest Billy Moyer shirt, Roger Long, Bob Pierce, Daryl Lanigon...well you get the idea
Over the summer I took a look a some of the shirts that are being sold with the intentions of getting one for my son. As I browsed, I had to say I wasn't all that impressed with what I see for designs. Most of the shirts are just cluttered with too much. The logo's of the car that look like and action shot are to to bright or to wild to get a understanding who is on the shirt. Throw in all the extra graphics, and you really have to get up close and personal to see who it is. I have the logo of the first Jeff Purvis shirt my mom got me and you had no problem understanding who was on that shirt.
Perhaps the designers need a check of how things were done in the past and just moderize it a bit. Then I might actually might by another or a few to add to my now old collection.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Heat Race Formats
After watching the world of outlaw heat races in Charloette Saturday night, it sparked me a topic to discuss in regards to the racing format of the program. That of the heat races specifically.
Heat races in central IL dirt late model racing are normally 10 laps long in lenght. They usually consist of 4 fows of cars for a field of 8. Normally on a night in which there is a special feature event that drivers are there to compete for, they take the 3 finishers out of each heat and then the rest have to come throug the B-main. Seems like a pretty fair way to determine the field for the feature...or is it.
Notice how I didn't of the way the heat line ups are determined? It used to be the top 8 qualifiers inverted and those 8 drivers made up what is known as the "fast heat". It wasn't always fair to the guy who had fast time, as he was forced to start from the rear, but in those days, they didn't take the top 3 in a regular night and they still don't. The quick time draws a number between 1 and 8 to deterimine the invert.
The thing I don't like about heat races here in IL is the length. 10 laps really isn't enought time to get the car working and give the driver the ability to come from the back if needed. 15 may seem a bit too long, but at the same time, for bigger purse shows, it should be the norm here in IL. I guess you could settle on 12, but i'd rather give time for the tires to come into play and see the chargers come from the back. Watching a pole sitter leave the field in 2 laps is boring to watch.
Heat races in central IL dirt late model racing are normally 10 laps long in lenght. They usually consist of 4 fows of cars for a field of 8. Normally on a night in which there is a special feature event that drivers are there to compete for, they take the 3 finishers out of each heat and then the rest have to come throug the B-main. Seems like a pretty fair way to determine the field for the feature...or is it.
Notice how I didn't of the way the heat line ups are determined? It used to be the top 8 qualifiers inverted and those 8 drivers made up what is known as the "fast heat". It wasn't always fair to the guy who had fast time, as he was forced to start from the rear, but in those days, they didn't take the top 3 in a regular night and they still don't. The quick time draws a number between 1 and 8 to deterimine the invert.
The thing I don't like about heat races here in IL is the length. 10 laps really isn't enought time to get the car working and give the driver the ability to come from the back if needed. 15 may seem a bit too long, but at the same time, for bigger purse shows, it should be the norm here in IL. I guess you could settle on 12, but i'd rather give time for the tires to come into play and see the chargers come from the back. Watching a pole sitter leave the field in 2 laps is boring to watch.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Chassis Builders
So I took in the dirt late model world of outlaws race at Charlotte last nigth as I was away Saturday night. While I listened to the comentary, they began to talk about the chassis a lot of these driver drive now a days. It was mentioned that there once was multiple manufactures that you could choose from. Now a days some some of these builders are still in existance, while some I have not heard anything about in years.
Back in the 90's, the dirt scene was really on fire. The sport was begining to grow at a rate that hadn't been seen. Part of the reason I think was more fans began to learn about racing from the explosion of the internet. Some drivers began to advertise their talents on the internet. The next thing you know, there were a ton of drivers driving all sorts of different chassis. GRT, Mastersbuilt, Shaw, Rayburn, Rocket...all have seen their days of dominance. However these chassis are still being made, but some drivers began to see the potential of building their own house cars and these chassis began to fade in popularity.
Locally, the Bob Pierce chassis appears to be the chassis of choice for most competitors. Not really sure on exactly why, but they certainly are popular here. Nationally though they don't appear to be as good as some of the pro's house cars. Moyer certainly has seen his share of success in his victory circle chassis. Bloomquist had a few drivers working his chassis with Owens and Erb. Josk Richards..aka, "Kid Rocket" brings the good with the Rocket house car. Interestingly, colaboration between some NASCAR drivers and late modelt drivers are working on their own house cares. Earl Pearson Jr and Bobby Labonte. Bill Elliott and Ray Cook. The biggest contributor though the the house cars is Tony Stewart and his drivers in late models as well as in sprint cars.
It is a way to use top of the line money to advance and maybe get in edge. It certainly has though led the exi of may chassis that came before them.
Back in the 90's, the dirt scene was really on fire. The sport was begining to grow at a rate that hadn't been seen. Part of the reason I think was more fans began to learn about racing from the explosion of the internet. Some drivers began to advertise their talents on the internet. The next thing you know, there were a ton of drivers driving all sorts of different chassis. GRT, Mastersbuilt, Shaw, Rayburn, Rocket...all have seen their days of dominance. However these chassis are still being made, but some drivers began to see the potential of building their own house cars and these chassis began to fade in popularity.
Locally, the Bob Pierce chassis appears to be the chassis of choice for most competitors. Not really sure on exactly why, but they certainly are popular here. Nationally though they don't appear to be as good as some of the pro's house cars. Moyer certainly has seen his share of success in his victory circle chassis. Bloomquist had a few drivers working his chassis with Owens and Erb. Josk Richards..aka, "Kid Rocket" brings the good with the Rocket house car. Interestingly, colaboration between some NASCAR drivers and late modelt drivers are working on their own house cares. Earl Pearson Jr and Bobby Labonte. Bill Elliott and Ray Cook. The biggest contributor though the the house cars is Tony Stewart and his drivers in late models as well as in sprint cars.
It is a way to use top of the line money to advance and maybe get in edge. It certainly has though led the exi of may chassis that came before them.
Friday, November 4, 2011
The Youth
So I caught some late post comments from Kyle Busch tonight. He was talking about the way he and the wreck happened on tonights race. Specifically him and Ron Horniday Jr. Busch went on to say to, "I'm out here to win a race just like everyone else."
Typical I say...but blame those who put the drivers in the seats.
This whole youth movement has been nothing but a silverspoon entitlment that simply can't stand anymore. Those who feel they are faster f up and simply go braindead and just run over contenders. That is not racing and i've seen it here locally over the last few years on the dirt tracks. Little patience and no willingness to see the lap through takes me through a night this summer.
Got the B12 of Kevin Weaver leading the prelude to the Praried Dirt Classic. Track is for certain rubbered up and not a lot passing is going to take place. With 12 to go, Kevin slipped a littel out of his groove and opened a door of opportunity for Jason Feger. They both go into 3-4 and Jason decided to slide job Kevin in and attempt to pass. Kudos to him. The problem I have is the timing...the mentality. Was it needed then, was better judgement needed. Well yes to a lot of fans...but no to a youth driver.
Look, I like hard racing. It isn't easy to drive hard night in and out and have to settle for less the the best. But this youth entitlement is a f'n joke. Kyle Busch derserves an ass whipping tonight for his shit in TX. Feger got a ton of crap for his handleing of racing a driver clean. I can't say who is wrong and who is right, but the bottom line is, youth needs a littel respect to those who have been there and done that.
Typical I say...but blame those who put the drivers in the seats.
This whole youth movement has been nothing but a silverspoon entitlment that simply can't stand anymore. Those who feel they are faster f up and simply go braindead and just run over contenders. That is not racing and i've seen it here locally over the last few years on the dirt tracks. Little patience and no willingness to see the lap through takes me through a night this summer.
Got the B12 of Kevin Weaver leading the prelude to the Praried Dirt Classic. Track is for certain rubbered up and not a lot passing is going to take place. With 12 to go, Kevin slipped a littel out of his groove and opened a door of opportunity for Jason Feger. They both go into 3-4 and Jason decided to slide job Kevin in and attempt to pass. Kudos to him. The problem I have is the timing...the mentality. Was it needed then, was better judgement needed. Well yes to a lot of fans...but no to a youth driver.
Look, I like hard racing. It isn't easy to drive hard night in and out and have to settle for less the the best. But this youth entitlement is a f'n joke. Kyle Busch derserves an ass whipping tonight for his shit in TX. Feger got a ton of crap for his handleing of racing a driver clean. I can't say who is wrong and who is right, but the bottom line is, youth needs a littel respect to those who have been there and done that.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Hendricks Close Call
Word is that Rick Hendrick survived another close call tonight.
Worst thing about today was it was the worst day for an IL veteran race driver back in the early 2000's
This guy wasn't a late model driver and if his love of open wheel racing didn't consume him...it is hard telling what this guy might have done. Blake Feese is no stranger though to what it takes to be in the big time. There was a time this young hot shot from Saybrook, IL was the sought after young gun and he had the tope NASCAR boys saying the same thing. Kurt Busch being one of them.
But tragedy struck hard for Blake and for many of the fans.
Blake had been running hard with his dad. Racing in Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa and Michigan on the sprint car fron. Yet Blake was someone that wanted more. The Indy millions to race at that level wasn't what he was looking for...he wanted the young guns status in stock car racing. Thus he left the central IL flatlands, with little to know recognition for stock car racing and made his way to Charloette.
He built his foundation nad he had many of many meetings early on his his career. Most felt he should of stuck with ARCA racind as he saw a whole lot successs. Yet Blake turned the eye of Hendrick's motor builders. It was in the works to have Blake drive before that fateful airplane ride home ended the person who thought the most of him. Sadly, Blake had to redine who he is and search for more and more time behind the wheel.
Fortunatley he's held on to what he wants to do. Right now, he does doe what he loves in racing...by the means of running truck series. Yet this latest event with Rick makes a man wonder...what could have been with Blake Feese.
Worst thing about today was it was the worst day for an IL veteran race driver back in the early 2000's
This guy wasn't a late model driver and if his love of open wheel racing didn't consume him...it is hard telling what this guy might have done. Blake Feese is no stranger though to what it takes to be in the big time. There was a time this young hot shot from Saybrook, IL was the sought after young gun and he had the tope NASCAR boys saying the same thing. Kurt Busch being one of them.
But tragedy struck hard for Blake and for many of the fans.
Blake had been running hard with his dad. Racing in Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa and Michigan on the sprint car fron. Yet Blake was someone that wanted more. The Indy millions to race at that level wasn't what he was looking for...he wanted the young guns status in stock car racing. Thus he left the central IL flatlands, with little to know recognition for stock car racing and made his way to Charloette.
He built his foundation nad he had many of many meetings early on his his career. Most felt he should of stuck with ARCA racind as he saw a whole lot successs. Yet Blake turned the eye of Hendrick's motor builders. It was in the works to have Blake drive before that fateful airplane ride home ended the person who thought the most of him. Sadly, Blake had to redine who he is and search for more and more time behind the wheel.
Fortunatley he's held on to what he wants to do. Right now, he does doe what he loves in racing...by the means of running truck series. Yet this latest event with Rick makes a man wonder...what could have been with Blake Feese.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Stewart...Sport Needs Him
Hear a lot of people say they hate Tony Stewart. Why? I know the guy has had a fair share of growing up problems over the years. He was hated because he always felt there was a level of racing that he was at that no every driver felt he was at. Tony had it easy coming up. Had the best cars, best crews, best that money could by. By the mid 80's he was a dirt track name that everyone knew of. However when he'd come to visiting tracks...Tony was not someone that you'd really want to be around
Tony's nickname is, "Smoke" and for good reason. He's got the worst temper of any racer that i've ever read about or seen. He had only one thing on his mind when he came to a track...win and win big. It was nothing for him to have to get even more controversial. Tony would not tolerate any racer coming close to him when he was leading. Racing hard was one thing. Racing hard agaisnt Tony when he was up front was another. It was his belief he was above competition...yet sometimes the competition didn't buckle to him.
Racing on the dirt track fell old to Tony and even though he'd ran the Indy 500 many times and will always be an open wheel lover, his heart lied on the big time. NASCAR came calling in the late 90's as the sport really blew up. Joe Gibbs snapped him up and he immediately found a calling on asphalt even though it was something he was never comfortable doing. Had it not been for Big E helping him out to get some guidance in his head...he'd of quit, or been dead.
Tony is good for racing thoug in so many ways. He loves the sport and doesn't care the cookie cutter images you see in pro sports. Dude is a racer and is a racer no matter his money or fame. He's mellowed out more over the years and with him owning Eldora now, he gets his chance to come back and show his roots. But the bottom line is he races hard every night and that is what you have to like in the guy.
Tony's nickname is, "Smoke" and for good reason. He's got the worst temper of any racer that i've ever read about or seen. He had only one thing on his mind when he came to a track...win and win big. It was nothing for him to have to get even more controversial. Tony would not tolerate any racer coming close to him when he was leading. Racing hard was one thing. Racing hard agaisnt Tony when he was up front was another. It was his belief he was above competition...yet sometimes the competition didn't buckle to him.
Racing on the dirt track fell old to Tony and even though he'd ran the Indy 500 many times and will always be an open wheel lover, his heart lied on the big time. NASCAR came calling in the late 90's as the sport really blew up. Joe Gibbs snapped him up and he immediately found a calling on asphalt even though it was something he was never comfortable doing. Had it not been for Big E helping him out to get some guidance in his head...he'd of quit, or been dead.
Tony is good for racing thoug in so many ways. He loves the sport and doesn't care the cookie cutter images you see in pro sports. Dude is a racer and is a racer no matter his money or fame. He's mellowed out more over the years and with him owning Eldora now, he gets his chance to come back and show his roots. But the bottom line is he races hard every night and that is what you have to like in the guy.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Shickle...A IL Racing Family
Bloomington, IL is home to a racing family that has continued to crank out dirt late model drivers through the years. The numbers should stand out when you see them enter the track. S95, 5 and probably most populard, the S10. These are the numbers 3 drivers who share the same last name and a love for speed on the 1/4 mile raceways across IL. The Shickles.
Frank Shickle Sr, Frank Shickle Jr, Eddie Shickle, Flip Shickle and Lisa Shickle all have made their way to may pit areas through the years. It started back with the familiar orange 95S and continues to the 3 generation driver of Lisa. Though they are all cousincs and family, they all have had their fair share of success, some more than others.
Frank Sr had his heyday back in the 70's and laid a foundation for son Frank Jr. Frank Sr raced against the likes Sammy Lee, Joe Williams and Jack Tyne and earned a few wins over his years. He still runs when he can. Eddie Shickle was in teh familiar #5 and had one of the sweetest looking cars when I was a kid. Had camero stub pretty pink #5 that'll i'll never forget. Eddie no longer drives but still can be found at the track from time to time. Probably the most successful out of the bunch was Frank Schikle Jr in the S10. Jr likes to run the Nascar sanctioned tracks but still is very compeititive when he arrives at the track.
Through the years Frank Jr has had a few kids that have made their ways behind the wheel. Flip Shickle started back in the late 90's and has had enough experience to where he can be compeitive. Add on top of that the like of his sister Lisa and you have a few more Shickles for many of us in the area to watch and see develop much like the peers they call uncle, grandpa and dad.
Frank Shickle Sr, Frank Shickle Jr, Eddie Shickle, Flip Shickle and Lisa Shickle all have made their way to may pit areas through the years. It started back with the familiar orange 95S and continues to the 3 generation driver of Lisa. Though they are all cousincs and family, they all have had their fair share of success, some more than others.
Frank Sr had his heyday back in the 70's and laid a foundation for son Frank Jr. Frank Sr raced against the likes Sammy Lee, Joe Williams and Jack Tyne and earned a few wins over his years. He still runs when he can. Eddie Shickle was in teh familiar #5 and had one of the sweetest looking cars when I was a kid. Had camero stub pretty pink #5 that'll i'll never forget. Eddie no longer drives but still can be found at the track from time to time. Probably the most successful out of the bunch was Frank Schikle Jr in the S10. Jr likes to run the Nascar sanctioned tracks but still is very compeititive when he arrives at the track.
Through the years Frank Jr has had a few kids that have made their ways behind the wheel. Flip Shickle started back in the late 90's and has had enough experience to where he can be compeitive. Add on top of that the like of his sister Lisa and you have a few more Shickles for many of us in the area to watch and see develop much like the peers they call uncle, grandpa and dad.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Best Track in IL
So I've not brought up the subject of best track in the state. Yet i've posted quite often on the tracks I've attended, some more than others. Remember, I'm only giving an opinion. I've seen a lot of these tracks change since the early 80's so my opinion will vary. We'll start with track number 4.
I posted in a article that Kankakee was Chicago's home to late model racing. They opened up in the early 40's and even though there is no actual documentation on to races held before then, there is spectator witness to the events before hand. But Kankakee lives on. It has been shutdown and reopend many times. My love of the track is that it is flat and really makes a driver earn his pay when he shows. You don't qualify good there...no way you have a chance.
3rd goes to Farmer City. The track is by far the fastest in the state. However i'm going to step out of the racing for a second and talk facilities. Much much overdue for some changes. This track did lose a lot of support the last few years cause of a town rivalry on who should own the track and who should have rights to it. Best thing that happened is that too good guys who enjoy the sport took hold of it and made it into what it is today. Next thing up...some upgrades.
2nd is Fairbury. Love that track. Has the best racing in the last 2 years and for it not to be named track of the year this year would be a travesty. I attended many regular nights and saw many last lap passes and many terrific finishes. Reason I say it isn't number one to me is not cause it is terrible...but it does rubber up on that deep black surface and can make for a very boring race time to time.
Number 1, Canton. Baby Eldora is what I call it. Very nice track, high banked and the cars really have the room to run. No wall a the facility, just downright horsepower to guide you the way. If you fault, you are either too slow or you have no control. The most unfortunate part of this track is there are no regular late model races. The track doesn't draw all that well and they are stuck with boring open whell racing. However it is still the best track in this viewers eye.
I posted in a article that Kankakee was Chicago's home to late model racing. They opened up in the early 40's and even though there is no actual documentation on to races held before then, there is spectator witness to the events before hand. But Kankakee lives on. It has been shutdown and reopend many times. My love of the track is that it is flat and really makes a driver earn his pay when he shows. You don't qualify good there...no way you have a chance.
3rd goes to Farmer City. The track is by far the fastest in the state. However i'm going to step out of the racing for a second and talk facilities. Much much overdue for some changes. This track did lose a lot of support the last few years cause of a town rivalry on who should own the track and who should have rights to it. Best thing that happened is that too good guys who enjoy the sport took hold of it and made it into what it is today. Next thing up...some upgrades.
2nd is Fairbury. Love that track. Has the best racing in the last 2 years and for it not to be named track of the year this year would be a travesty. I attended many regular nights and saw many last lap passes and many terrific finishes. Reason I say it isn't number one to me is not cause it is terrible...but it does rubber up on that deep black surface and can make for a very boring race time to time.
Number 1, Canton. Baby Eldora is what I call it. Very nice track, high banked and the cars really have the room to run. No wall a the facility, just downright horsepower to guide you the way. If you fault, you are either too slow or you have no control. The most unfortunate part of this track is there are no regular late model races. The track doesn't draw all that well and they are stuck with boring open whell racing. However it is still the best track in this viewers eye.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Dick Taylor Memories
Watching the St. Louis Cardinals tonight made me think of a driver who still isn't afraid to get behind the wheel. You look at him and think, hell...he isn't that old. Yet he has had successful son do a lot of what his father made a name for himself doing here in central IL. Where you been Dick Taylor?
When I was a kid watching the best of central IL run at Farmer City, one of the slickest looking cars on a speedway each night was that of none other than Springfield's Dick Taylor. He was sort of a kid to the track as well. He looked like a kid to. Dick isn't and never was very tall but he always had nice smile on the face and to say it frank...raced everyone clean.
I said he had the slickest looking car to race against. I still remeber how a man could put yellow, white and and some red trim on a car. It was slick. Whitey Herzog was the Cardinals manager in St. Louis at that time and he would of vouched for a little yellow trim afer how Dick decked out his car. Wondering why I referenced the St. Louis Cardinals in all this? Well it had to do with Dick's sponsors.
When Dick rolled out on to a track, he was easily identified in his #24. Yet what stood out to me was his sponsorship. He was sponsored by the Springfield Cardinals at that time...a minor leage, AAA team to the boys in St. Louis. He had his logo on the car decked out like the real deal with the twin birds sitting on both ends of the bats. At that time in teh 80's, that logo was easily identifyable to kids of my age and I easily had a connection with what the #24 was doing on the track.
Dick won his fair share of races and to name his top prizes, probably comes with his accomplishments at Macon Speedway, Springfield and Farmer City. He is a winner of the Hearld and Review 100 along with numerous races across many speedways in central IL. Dick still runs Dick Taylor Auto Body in Springfield and in looking at pictures, he hasn't changed a bit. Glad I had to see him run through the years and enjoyed seeing his son run just as good. Thanks for the memories Dick!
When I was a kid watching the best of central IL run at Farmer City, one of the slickest looking cars on a speedway each night was that of none other than Springfield's Dick Taylor. He was sort of a kid to the track as well. He looked like a kid to. Dick isn't and never was very tall but he always had nice smile on the face and to say it frank...raced everyone clean.
I said he had the slickest looking car to race against. I still remeber how a man could put yellow, white and and some red trim on a car. It was slick. Whitey Herzog was the Cardinals manager in St. Louis at that time and he would of vouched for a little yellow trim afer how Dick decked out his car. Wondering why I referenced the St. Louis Cardinals in all this? Well it had to do with Dick's sponsors.
When Dick rolled out on to a track, he was easily identified in his #24. Yet what stood out to me was his sponsorship. He was sponsored by the Springfield Cardinals at that time...a minor leage, AAA team to the boys in St. Louis. He had his logo on the car decked out like the real deal with the twin birds sitting on both ends of the bats. At that time in teh 80's, that logo was easily identifyable to kids of my age and I easily had a connection with what the #24 was doing on the track.
Dick won his fair share of races and to name his top prizes, probably comes with his accomplishments at Macon Speedway, Springfield and Farmer City. He is a winner of the Hearld and Review 100 along with numerous races across many speedways in central IL. Dick still runs Dick Taylor Auto Body in Springfield and in looking at pictures, he hasn't changed a bit. Glad I had to see him run through the years and enjoyed seeing his son run just as good. Thanks for the memories Dick!
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Catching up with Joe Williams
I'm fourtunate to have known Joe a long time. Joe started racing back before I was born, but I was able to see his final days behind the 112 before he retired. Joe is always just a real nice guy to be around and never was too shy to sit down for a beer and some good conversation. Suprisingly though, you don't always hear him talk to much abou this race days. Joe always says that if he gets to talking about it, he'll go home and dream about it again. Totally understand.
Joe still resides in Arrowsmith and still makes his way around the area. He used to be a Jeep enthusist and always had a great eye on them. He still has one that I know of that to my knowledge has not sold even though being offered several time. He still has a love of automobiles as he is always quick to jump into any conversation about vehicles. Sometimes a gear head never can walk away from what he knows.
My recolection of Joe racing in the early 80's was mostly at Farmer City. I still remember some nights up in Kankakee. Joe's cars were always very recognizable in the baby and royal blue pait scheme. Of course his 112 was a unique number beings it wasn't very often to see a triple digit number. I recall a few Joe's sponsors. He was sponsored by his employer, Glass Specialty for a number of years. I remember antoher sponsor in Strickland Cheverlotte. He also was loyal to his long time buddy and at one time racing competition Butch Hixon. In all the years I can recall, Joe drove Hixon motors until he retired.
As stated before, Joe lives in Arrowsmith where he is retired now. He has had some health issues the last few years. He recently had a stint put in and a few years back had some work done on his shoulder. He takes time out during the farming season to help a long time friend get his crops in and out. He enjoys being with his long time friends and occasionally you'll see him behind the wheel of a RV as he likes to take in some camping and boating. As far as being at a race track, he's been there a few times and being able to watch is easier on the memory that it used to be.
Joe still resides in Arrowsmith and still makes his way around the area. He used to be a Jeep enthusist and always had a great eye on them. He still has one that I know of that to my knowledge has not sold even though being offered several time. He still has a love of automobiles as he is always quick to jump into any conversation about vehicles. Sometimes a gear head never can walk away from what he knows.
My recolection of Joe racing in the early 80's was mostly at Farmer City. I still remember some nights up in Kankakee. Joe's cars were always very recognizable in the baby and royal blue pait scheme. Of course his 112 was a unique number beings it wasn't very often to see a triple digit number. I recall a few Joe's sponsors. He was sponsored by his employer, Glass Specialty for a number of years. I remember antoher sponsor in Strickland Cheverlotte. He also was loyal to his long time buddy and at one time racing competition Butch Hixon. In all the years I can recall, Joe drove Hixon motors until he retired.
As stated before, Joe lives in Arrowsmith where he is retired now. He has had some health issues the last few years. He recently had a stint put in and a few years back had some work done on his shoulder. He takes time out during the farming season to help a long time friend get his crops in and out. He enjoys being with his long time friends and occasionally you'll see him behind the wheel of a RV as he likes to take in some camping and boating. As far as being at a race track, he's been there a few times and being able to watch is easier on the memory that it used to be.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Passion For Dirt Tracking
Where does it begin? Does it start by watching Nascar on TV? Does it start by hearing about it from a friend. I've alwasy wondered what is that makes fans of dirt racing so much more passionate about their style verse say, sprint cars. For me, it was easy, I grew up around it and was the fortuneate son to a father who had a super stock in the early 80's shacked up in the shed and was witness to the crew taking care of it nightly
So I asked around to some of my friends what it was that drew them to wanting to go stock car dirt track racing on weekends. Interesting I found out it was different for everyone. One guy said he went with his parents because his mom or dad enjoyed going. Another said he got into it cause he went to highschool with a now driver. Another said it was something for him and his girlfriend to do on a summer night cause there parents where there as well.
No matter the source of the desire, it seems to me that the reason people are into this sport is because of family. About everyone that is friends with me stated that even before they had a favorite driver or had a friend who may of been driving, they all say it was about going to the track with their parents. They state that that without the ability to go with their parents as a kid, they may never know the enjoyment of racing at the local level. Once again, just goes to show you that parents do know what sticks to a kid that will run with them for the rest of their lives.
So I asked around to some of my friends what it was that drew them to wanting to go stock car dirt track racing on weekends. Interesting I found out it was different for everyone. One guy said he went with his parents because his mom or dad enjoyed going. Another said he got into it cause he went to highschool with a now driver. Another said it was something for him and his girlfriend to do on a summer night cause there parents where there as well.
No matter the source of the desire, it seems to me that the reason people are into this sport is because of family. About everyone that is friends with me stated that even before they had a favorite driver or had a friend who may of been driving, they all say it was about going to the track with their parents. They state that that without the ability to go with their parents as a kid, they may never know the enjoyment of racing at the local level. Once again, just goes to show you that parents do know what sticks to a kid that will run with them for the rest of their lives.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Wehldon Wreck Raises Concerns
Going to dive off dirt track racing this time and discuss my thoughts on the now continued talk of safety after the tragedy at Las Vegas speedway Sunday. Like the death of Dale Earnhardt back in 2001, every one was ready to jump the gun and question the safety of driving. It has led to some improvements on race tracks with addition of foam walls and the "hanz" device as required driving gear. But what more is needed this time?
Look, this is open wheel racing and it is at times the funnest and fast racing, while at time it can be as boring as watching a tree grow. These cars are designed for bigger faster tracks that have less bank. They are areodynamically sound with different wings and and wedge to cut through the air. So when you put these cars on the track that is 1.5 miles and banked, you are going to see some very fast, very quick manuvering of the cars to where you have the recipe for a crowd delight and a drivers nightmare.
What happened on Sunday was a tragedy, but this is racing. Every driver knows the risk they take when they strap in and fire that motor up. But why do we have to question the safety again? This was an accident that happened and it Dans death wasn't becuase he wasn't safe. Dan died because open wheel racing does expose the human body more that stock car racing. Always has. The head of the driver is only protected by a helmet and if the car does happen to flip or in Dan's case, goes head long into the catch fence...the head and spin can't take that force. As unfortunate as it is, this is what got Dan...and that is the open wheel racing risks these drivers take.
Look, this is open wheel racing and it is at times the funnest and fast racing, while at time it can be as boring as watching a tree grow. These cars are designed for bigger faster tracks that have less bank. They are areodynamically sound with different wings and and wedge to cut through the air. So when you put these cars on the track that is 1.5 miles and banked, you are going to see some very fast, very quick manuvering of the cars to where you have the recipe for a crowd delight and a drivers nightmare.
What happened on Sunday was a tragedy, but this is racing. Every driver knows the risk they take when they strap in and fire that motor up. But why do we have to question the safety again? This was an accident that happened and it Dans death wasn't becuase he wasn't safe. Dan died because open wheel racing does expose the human body more that stock car racing. Always has. The head of the driver is only protected by a helmet and if the car does happen to flip or in Dan's case, goes head long into the catch fence...the head and spin can't take that force. As unfortunate as it is, this is what got Dan...and that is the open wheel racing risks these drivers take.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Another Show This Weekend
Took some time to do some race surfing tonight and found a pleasant surprise. Looks like Tri City Speedway is throwing one last race before the gouls come forth next weekend. Looks like the super models and pro crate series will be the only 2 classes running on Saturday night. Nothing wrong with that. With little to any tracks still running this time of year, there may be a few more cars that show up in both series. Good for car count, but bad for the track. This time of year, with cool conditions and little moisture in the air, the track stands to get real tough and could rubber up real easy.
One of the popular and succesful drivers that has made a name for himself in southern IL as well as dirt late model racing is Randy Korte. Randy has been driving his usual #00 since the 90's. Randy is well known at souther IL tracks as well as Indiana and northern Kentucky. He won several races at Paducha, Highland and Kentucy Lake Speedway. In checking the results, I see Randy also won at Tri City last Saturday night and to me is the easy odds on favorite. I choose Randy to have a good change not only cause he is a good driver, but the tracks even in southern IL have a different feel than most other tracks north of I70. Tracks in the south have a different feel and you have to really be smart in tire strategy. Going too soft to early can lead to a nice early run and wind up skating the rest of the night. Randy has that experience and racing this late in the season on a home type track could server well for him.
One of the popular and succesful drivers that has made a name for himself in southern IL as well as dirt late model racing is Randy Korte. Randy has been driving his usual #00 since the 90's. Randy is well known at souther IL tracks as well as Indiana and northern Kentucky. He won several races at Paducha, Highland and Kentucy Lake Speedway. In checking the results, I see Randy also won at Tri City last Saturday night and to me is the easy odds on favorite. I choose Randy to have a good change not only cause he is a good driver, but the tracks even in southern IL have a different feel than most other tracks north of I70. Tracks in the south have a different feel and you have to really be smart in tire strategy. Going too soft to early can lead to a nice early run and wind up skating the rest of the night. Randy has that experience and racing this late in the season on a home type track could server well for him.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Smooth Opearting at Kokomo
Looks like the area's kid took home the special event at the Kokomo Speedway in Inidana last night in Indiana. Bobby Pierce Jr took the 2011 payday to earn yet another victory in what has in this writers eye been a succesfull rookie season competing in the late model division. Matter of fact, Bobby was named the rookie of the year in UMP. While he was certainly had to enjoy the win last night, I'm sure the sting of the summertnationals at Fairbury has yet to wear off. That race was his.
Not of interest at Kokomo speedway came from another well known IL driver that hails from Gibson City. Seems Kevin Weaver might of had something for the smooth operator as Kevin accomplished quit a feat last night. He was unable to take part in his qualifying heat last night due to mechanical issues. Kevin started last in the semi-feature and his machine was hooked up as he passed all the way up to 2nd to make the show and start 18th. During the feature, Kevin was the man to watch. Again, hooked up and hauling, he moved all the through the field and wound up finishing 2nd to Pierce. Certainly a noteworty effort from the driver who really seemed to turn his season around since mid August.
Kokomo is not a track i've been to, but I went to their website at i was able to watch a race that featured non wing mini sprints. The track is good size and appeared to be in good shape. They put on weekly 2 day shows through the summer and feature a lot of different classes. I've heard of the track and an interesting fact about the speedway is that it was featured on a former race show called Thursday night thunder. Of course they only showed open wheel racing...as this track is after all in Indiana. Certainly worth a trip to see come next year.
For more information on Kokomo, visit; www.kokomospeedway.net/
RIP Dan Wheldon. We'll miss you.
Not of interest at Kokomo speedway came from another well known IL driver that hails from Gibson City. Seems Kevin Weaver might of had something for the smooth operator as Kevin accomplished quit a feat last night. He was unable to take part in his qualifying heat last night due to mechanical issues. Kevin started last in the semi-feature and his machine was hooked up as he passed all the way up to 2nd to make the show and start 18th. During the feature, Kevin was the man to watch. Again, hooked up and hauling, he moved all the through the field and wound up finishing 2nd to Pierce. Certainly a noteworty effort from the driver who really seemed to turn his season around since mid August.
Kokomo is not a track i've been to, but I went to their website at i was able to watch a race that featured non wing mini sprints. The track is good size and appeared to be in good shape. They put on weekly 2 day shows through the summer and feature a lot of different classes. I've heard of the track and an interesting fact about the speedway is that it was featured on a former race show called Thursday night thunder. Of course they only showed open wheel racing...as this track is after all in Indiana. Certainly worth a trip to see come next year.
For more information on Kokomo, visit; www.kokomospeedway.net/
RIP Dan Wheldon. We'll miss you.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Locals Represent Well At UMP Fall Nationals
The famed dirt half mile known as Eldora speedway was the scene of last weekend's UMP Fall nationals featuring dirt late models and open wheeled modifieds. The weather couldn't of been any better as the day grew unseasonally warm and made for an enjoyable stay for those who took in the event. It made it real hard to come to a realization that we are almost halfway through the month of October and the temperatures are surely going to drop for us here in the midwest.
The state of IL was very represented at this years event. The winner went to Michigan's Jeep Van Wormer. After that, the top 5 has IL all over it. Frank Heckenast Jr took runner up. Bloomington's wild man Jason Feger won his head and took home 3rd. This years UMP points champion Ryan Unzicker took home the 4th spot. Other notables that made the trip to Ohio and did compete were Fairbury speedway regular Derick Chandler and from Highland, IL Brandon sheppart. Both did make the show but finished outside the top 10.
It is not uncommon for IL drivers to do well at Eldora when big money is not on line the lind. But when it is, some IL drivers have made the big money shows, but throug them all, none have ever won. There has been some close ones and a runner up, but never anyone to get the picture with the trophy girls. Shannon Babb took the checkered flag a few years ago only to be DQ'd for weighing less than 2300 pounds at the end of the night. Beyond that, you have to go back to Kevin Weaver of Gibson City as he took 2nd in the World 100 in the late 90's. However I have a feeling with the gruop of drivers that are just getting good at their hobby, this may change in the future.
For more infomration on Eldora, visit: www.eldoraspeedway.com/
For Frank Heckenast Jr info: www.frankjr99.com
Jason Feger: www.jasonfeger.com
Ryan Unzicker: http://www.ryanunzicker.com/
The state of IL was very represented at this years event. The winner went to Michigan's Jeep Van Wormer. After that, the top 5 has IL all over it. Frank Heckenast Jr took runner up. Bloomington's wild man Jason Feger won his head and took home 3rd. This years UMP points champion Ryan Unzicker took home the 4th spot. Other notables that made the trip to Ohio and did compete were Fairbury speedway regular Derick Chandler and from Highland, IL Brandon sheppart. Both did make the show but finished outside the top 10.
It is not uncommon for IL drivers to do well at Eldora when big money is not on line the lind. But when it is, some IL drivers have made the big money shows, but throug them all, none have ever won. There has been some close ones and a runner up, but never anyone to get the picture with the trophy girls. Shannon Babb took the checkered flag a few years ago only to be DQ'd for weighing less than 2300 pounds at the end of the night. Beyond that, you have to go back to Kevin Weaver of Gibson City as he took 2nd in the World 100 in the late 90's. However I have a feeling with the gruop of drivers that are just getting good at their hobby, this may change in the future.
For more infomration on Eldora, visit: www.eldoraspeedway.com/
For Frank Heckenast Jr info: www.frankjr99.com
Jason Feger: www.jasonfeger.com
Ryan Unzicker: http://www.ryanunzicker.com/
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
When Is It Too Early
Thought I'd bring up a topic today that has to do when most drivers first start their career...and is it too young?
Central IL boasts a nice array of drivers that will be tough for any out of starter contend against. These drivers have been now driving the local tracks for a solid 2 to 3 years and some more but in a lesser class. It used to be something to see mid 20 year old driver make his way on to the track and begin his career. Oh how time has changed.
2 names of Bobby Pierce Jr. and Brandon Sheppard are not even old enough to play on a varsity football team, yet they master the 800 horsepower beast every summer weekend. Both the these drivers are the sons of well known and hall of fame worthy fathers. So it comes as no surprise that after watching their hero take the track many of many nights, they'd want to be like dad.
But is it too early when they are not even in college. Some say no because it is the wave of how the next best gets discoverd. Some say yes because despite all thier dad's advice, they still don't respect the competition and tear not only their own stuff up, but the compeitors as well. Some veterans agree that it takes experience to get better, but you have to learn the respect of your fellow racers first and foremost before really getting to know the art of going fast.
Fortunately there is no rule that prevents a driver from driving. It is a matter of signing a waver. This has always been a rebel type of sporting event where going fast is first and foremost. Playing the rules game only applies to what goes on the track and not neccicarily who is on the track.
Central IL boasts a nice array of drivers that will be tough for any out of starter contend against. These drivers have been now driving the local tracks for a solid 2 to 3 years and some more but in a lesser class. It used to be something to see mid 20 year old driver make his way on to the track and begin his career. Oh how time has changed.
2 names of Bobby Pierce Jr. and Brandon Sheppard are not even old enough to play on a varsity football team, yet they master the 800 horsepower beast every summer weekend. Both the these drivers are the sons of well known and hall of fame worthy fathers. So it comes as no surprise that after watching their hero take the track many of many nights, they'd want to be like dad.
But is it too early when they are not even in college. Some say no because it is the wave of how the next best gets discoverd. Some say yes because despite all thier dad's advice, they still don't respect the competition and tear not only their own stuff up, but the compeitors as well. Some veterans agree that it takes experience to get better, but you have to learn the respect of your fellow racers first and foremost before really getting to know the art of going fast.
Fortunately there is no rule that prevents a driver from driving. It is a matter of signing a waver. This has always been a rebel type of sporting event where going fast is first and foremost. Playing the rules game only applies to what goes on the track and not neccicarily who is on the track.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Track Champions
Why is there such things as a track championship?
I ask that question because in dirt late model racing around Illinois, to me it means really nothing. Some people look at is a staple of driver in the fact that he's seen his time, learned the track and conquered. Other times, it comes down to the type of mediocre driver who runs 3rd to 5th each night and winds up winning the points despite never really earning the checkers.
To me, track championships are nothing more than a way for a track to lure the local driver back over and over again to earn a legend status really never deserved. Out of respect of the drivers, i'll not quote any such named. But those who have watched over the years know where I am coming from. It is nothing that means a whole lot when you look at the career of a driver.
Case in point, take a look at the pros who run today. How many of them starting off worried about the $800 to win show only to hold that 5 point margin for that all important trophy at the end of the year. None, nada, zero. Nope, chasing track championships at local tracks mean you have zero desire to try and raise the level of your race program. Ledgend local verses name national. Way I see it.
If anything, the track championship does show potential and if anything improvement. In some cases, it shows nothing more than age...the more they win it. So why try to be old? Isn't that a sign that your time has came, gone and went?
I ask that question because in dirt late model racing around Illinois, to me it means really nothing. Some people look at is a staple of driver in the fact that he's seen his time, learned the track and conquered. Other times, it comes down to the type of mediocre driver who runs 3rd to 5th each night and winds up winning the points despite never really earning the checkers.
To me, track championships are nothing more than a way for a track to lure the local driver back over and over again to earn a legend status really never deserved. Out of respect of the drivers, i'll not quote any such named. But those who have watched over the years know where I am coming from. It is nothing that means a whole lot when you look at the career of a driver.
Case in point, take a look at the pros who run today. How many of them starting off worried about the $800 to win show only to hold that 5 point margin for that all important trophy at the end of the year. None, nada, zero. Nope, chasing track championships at local tracks mean you have zero desire to try and raise the level of your race program. Ledgend local verses name national. Way I see it.
If anything, the track championship does show potential and if anything improvement. In some cases, it shows nothing more than age...the more they win it. So why try to be old? Isn't that a sign that your time has came, gone and went?
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Slidejobs
Watched the nascar race today and saw another boring Jimmy Johnson win on another cookie cutter mile and a half tracl. Just brutal to watch. Made me wish for the these guys to get on a mile oval and run 100 laps. Why? Well they are technically the best drivers in the world, but I love to see drivers throw it in their hardest and use every inch of the track to advnace a postion. In other words...set em's up for a slidejob.
A slidejob is one of the funnest moves on a track for a spectator to watch, but it can also be the killer for a driver. Many of late race passes are the result of a slidejob type of pass. It can produce a last lap winner, a loss of position, or one hell of a wreck. It is usally seen on track that have wide sweeping cornors and usually a bit of bank. But this type of passing has made its way to the quarter to three eights size track and hae produced some hair raising moments.
The art of the slide job looks pretty easy to the casual observer, but it does take a some time to set it up. Normally, the car attempting to slidejob the front running competitor begins the move about mid striaght away. The driverf takes the car a little high mid straight away and then dives into the cornor on the very bottom while the driver he is trying to pass is running the cushion. Once the driver on the bottoms sets the car and gradually slides the car up to the exiting cornor cushion in front of the driver completeing the pass.
Now not all slide jobs are a sure thing. Some drivers running the cushion can maintaine their momentum and just re-pass the car by simply going underneath the driver who completed the pass. Some that do get passed wind up rear ending the other driver. For an example, click on this link and watch the top 2 postion drivers.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nr1-0McXazw
Slidejobs require a lot of horsepower in order to hold the position after the pass. The best thing about the art of a slidejob, is that it can resutl and an incredibly fun battle, but as I sated before, patience can where thin and they might wind up getting together and ending each of the drivers night.
Still makes for some fun racing.
A slidejob is one of the funnest moves on a track for a spectator to watch, but it can also be the killer for a driver. Many of late race passes are the result of a slidejob type of pass. It can produce a last lap winner, a loss of position, or one hell of a wreck. It is usally seen on track that have wide sweeping cornors and usually a bit of bank. But this type of passing has made its way to the quarter to three eights size track and hae produced some hair raising moments.
The art of the slide job looks pretty easy to the casual observer, but it does take a some time to set it up. Normally, the car attempting to slidejob the front running competitor begins the move about mid striaght away. The driverf takes the car a little high mid straight away and then dives into the cornor on the very bottom while the driver he is trying to pass is running the cushion. Once the driver on the bottoms sets the car and gradually slides the car up to the exiting cornor cushion in front of the driver completeing the pass.
Now not all slide jobs are a sure thing. Some drivers running the cushion can maintaine their momentum and just re-pass the car by simply going underneath the driver who completed the pass. Some that do get passed wind up rear ending the other driver. For an example, click on this link and watch the top 2 postion drivers.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nr1-0McXazw
Slidejobs require a lot of horsepower in order to hold the position after the pass. The best thing about the art of a slidejob, is that it can resutl and an incredibly fun battle, but as I sated before, patience can where thin and they might wind up getting together and ending each of the drivers night.
Still makes for some fun racing.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Remembering Leka
One of the drivers I grew up watching was out of Illeapolis, IL and he went by the name of Jim Leka.
What I remember of Jim is that he rarely came to the track each year with same number. Back when I was following Joe Williams of Arrowsmith, I remember Leka dominating races at Farmer City in the basic white car with the red number 7. Sometimes he'd come on the track with just a number made of duct tape. It didn't matter though, Jim was very tough to beat and would be for years
As time went on, Jim settled on a bullet chassis and drove the number 40. In 1987 he ended up winning the UMP points series. He never was one though who came to track with the latest up to date hauler and equipment. No Jim showed up witn a basic open trailer and pick up truck. His equipment was all in the bed of the truck. He didn't even have a tire rack on the trailer that I can remember.
Jim's driving style was tough, but smooth. I remember when he was winning lots of features at Macon and Farmer City, he'd never go in the cornor so hard that he have to throw the car to come around. He drove the cushion and never bouned off of it. His style allowed for the car to never be really out of shape and sideways and he could pull more out of the cornors. Younger drivers at that time like Kevin Weaver of Gibson City and Jim Rarick of Mowequa drove into corners hard and had to throw the cars as that was their style to make the cars work. Later on, their driving styles changed up, but not after Leka became the cream of central IL in the mid to late 80's.
What I remember of Jim is that he rarely came to the track each year with same number. Back when I was following Joe Williams of Arrowsmith, I remember Leka dominating races at Farmer City in the basic white car with the red number 7. Sometimes he'd come on the track with just a number made of duct tape. It didn't matter though, Jim was very tough to beat and would be for years
As time went on, Jim settled on a bullet chassis and drove the number 40. In 1987 he ended up winning the UMP points series. He never was one though who came to track with the latest up to date hauler and equipment. No Jim showed up witn a basic open trailer and pick up truck. His equipment was all in the bed of the truck. He didn't even have a tire rack on the trailer that I can remember.
Jim's driving style was tough, but smooth. I remember when he was winning lots of features at Macon and Farmer City, he'd never go in the cornor so hard that he have to throw the car to come around. He drove the cushion and never bouned off of it. His style allowed for the car to never be really out of shape and sideways and he could pull more out of the cornors. Younger drivers at that time like Kevin Weaver of Gibson City and Jim Rarick of Mowequa drove into corners hard and had to throw the cars as that was their style to make the cars work. Later on, their driving styles changed up, but not after Leka became the cream of central IL in the mid to late 80's.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Time Trials
So for some inperation on a topic tonight...I asked what do you not like...to my 15 year old kid.
So she answered...quaulifying. I asked are you serious? She said it takes too much time and bores her.
Pardon my daughter for being an idiot of the sport...but you know what...it does deserve a thought.
When I was younger, I hated street stocks. They took forever to qualify and it seemed they multiplied every weekend. The show for the night took longer and my patience would wear thin. But through technology the class of cars got better. Thus improvement.
Tracks and sanctioning bodies have done sooo much better now in how they handle qualifying. As much as i think every track should have a 1 lap chance, it simply cant't be done. With city curfews in order and much demand to have the race in by a certain time...we've seen qualifying turned into a draw.
However, thoughts have went into those that mattered. I welcome GPS.
GPS is the wave...and why not give it a chance. Lets face it. All the classes...their costs to race have went up. What makes things worse is they show up at the track...and are forced to draw for their starting position. It is not right. GPS makes it easier to get more than one car on the the track. Let them run 2 laps with multiple cars on the race track and do their thing. Let the computer do its thing.
It cuts down time and it allows for those who have limited budgets, but a good car, to be able to compete. Let technology do what it is intended to do...make things right.
So she answered...quaulifying. I asked are you serious? She said it takes too much time and bores her.
Pardon my daughter for being an idiot of the sport...but you know what...it does deserve a thought.
When I was younger, I hated street stocks. They took forever to qualify and it seemed they multiplied every weekend. The show for the night took longer and my patience would wear thin. But through technology the class of cars got better. Thus improvement.
Tracks and sanctioning bodies have done sooo much better now in how they handle qualifying. As much as i think every track should have a 1 lap chance, it simply cant't be done. With city curfews in order and much demand to have the race in by a certain time...we've seen qualifying turned into a draw.
However, thoughts have went into those that mattered. I welcome GPS.
GPS is the wave...and why not give it a chance. Lets face it. All the classes...their costs to race have went up. What makes things worse is they show up at the track...and are forced to draw for their starting position. It is not right. GPS makes it easier to get more than one car on the the track. Let them run 2 laps with multiple cars on the race track and do their thing. Let the computer do its thing.
It cuts down time and it allows for those who have limited budgets, but a good car, to be able to compete. Let technology do what it is intended to do...make things right.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Highland Speedway
Make no mistake about it. Central Illinois houses some of, if not the best late model drivers in the state. Anytime the big shows spring up through the spring and the summer, most time more than not, the top drivers call home here in east central IL. That is not to say though that the southern part of the state does not have anyone who can't compete. In fact, they house a few drivers that have made a name or two when visiting central IL
To find some of these drivers, lets take a look at the best track in southern IL, Highland Speedway. Highland is a quarter mile trace with good size bank. This year's late model track championship left no doubt he'll be back based upon his performance the last night of the year. Chad Zobirst finished 2nd to Michael Kloos who made the most of the night as he took the dash and turned around to win the feature event later that night. Those 2 drivers continually battle and will be back
However, some of the best in southern IL make Highland their home from time to time. This year summernational winner at Fairbury knows his way around the track...Rodney Melvin. Randy Kortee is no stranger to wins at the speedway. From a veterans standpoint, the track gets visits from Springfields own Matt Taylor. The one thing about the competition at Highland, you usually get a handful of competitors romo Missouri, Kentucky and Indiana.
The competition is tough in the south and so it should be no surprise to see some fo these drivers have success when venturing north bound. Just ask Steve's boy Brandon.
To find some of these drivers, lets take a look at the best track in southern IL, Highland Speedway. Highland is a quarter mile trace with good size bank. This year's late model track championship left no doubt he'll be back based upon his performance the last night of the year. Chad Zobirst finished 2nd to Michael Kloos who made the most of the night as he took the dash and turned around to win the feature event later that night. Those 2 drivers continually battle and will be back
However, some of the best in southern IL make Highland their home from time to time. This year summernational winner at Fairbury knows his way around the track...Rodney Melvin. Randy Kortee is no stranger to wins at the speedway. From a veterans standpoint, the track gets visits from Springfields own Matt Taylor. The one thing about the competition at Highland, you usually get a handful of competitors romo Missouri, Kentucky and Indiana.
The competition is tough in the south and so it should be no surprise to see some fo these drivers have success when venturing north bound. Just ask Steve's boy Brandon.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Entry List Be Damned
Just read over the weekend that the Highside Hustler known as Jason Feger decided to venture up into sprint car country and tackle Knoxville Speedway in Iowa. However the rumor mill had it he was going to be denied entry to the speedway cause he didn't submit his entry in early enough and make the top 66 entries. He made it known he was coming and still the track said he was not going to be allowed.
Feger made the trip anyway and was allowed to race even after many who had made it known they were not going to make the trip into Iown. Many of those including Rick Eckhardt stated to Feger...take my my spot. He is closer than most and with the weather unpredictable this time of year....why not give it up to someone who has a better chance of being there. Nothing wrong with it in my book.
I guess my thing about early entry fee's is what good do they really do. It doesn't cost a driver anything to submit an entry fee. If anything, they can submit more than a few a weekend and still choose where they want to go. Bottom line, this is a way for a track to advertise. This being Knoxville, they wanted to keep it open to those local and allow more to make the show from a local venture in my opinion.
This is sprint car country where the names of Swindell, Kinser and Schatz rule this landscape. They do not want to see a field of tough out of state late model drivers including a man like Feger coming in and give a show that would kick the pants of the Knoxville nationals on that flat track. But that is no surprise...times are tough no matter the tracks and if they can get more locals to keep the place going...that is what they will do.
Thanks Feger for trying despite their effort to deny.
Feger made the trip anyway and was allowed to race even after many who had made it known they were not going to make the trip into Iown. Many of those including Rick Eckhardt stated to Feger...take my my spot. He is closer than most and with the weather unpredictable this time of year....why not give it up to someone who has a better chance of being there. Nothing wrong with it in my book.
I guess my thing about early entry fee's is what good do they really do. It doesn't cost a driver anything to submit an entry fee. If anything, they can submit more than a few a weekend and still choose where they want to go. Bottom line, this is a way for a track to advertise. This being Knoxville, they wanted to keep it open to those local and allow more to make the show from a local venture in my opinion.
This is sprint car country where the names of Swindell, Kinser and Schatz rule this landscape. They do not want to see a field of tough out of state late model drivers including a man like Feger coming in and give a show that would kick the pants of the Knoxville nationals on that flat track. But that is no surprise...times are tough no matter the tracks and if they can get more locals to keep the place going...that is what they will do.
Thanks Feger for trying despite their effort to deny.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Rivalry...are there any?
So what did we discover this year here in east central IL? Well the usual. Feger is fast when in control. Smith is always going to be a factor. Pierce Jr has all the potential to be the areas best. Sheppard prooved he can hold his own and Babb still gets got as a July afternoon.
Yet as a fan, I was thinking, do any of these guys ever have that love/hate within them when competing on the track? I mean every year you hope to see those great rivalry's grow. However, I feel that there are none. I think with good rivals that really get heated on the track, you bring an extra people in each week to the track.
I'd love to see it where you have the occasional rub of the fender on the cool down lap like Unzicker gave Shirley this summer at Fairbury. I love to see Feger and Weaver tangle on top like in the shootout this year. While I am not condoning hard out of control driving, I like the fact that it can develop into a love/hate rivalry on the track. I don't see that Leka/Weaver rivalry I saw in the late 80's. I don't see that Long/Rientz rivalry like you seen in Fairbury in the 80's.
As of right now, they all respect one another and the only thing that may develop into a heated rival to where you might see the occasional "talk to" in the pits is the battle of old verse new. I thought a few times some of todays young gung don't show the patience as needed. So I think we'll see it more often than not soon. You can only get ran over so many times before we get the needed attitude of I'm going to get him back.
Rivals...we need them.
Yet as a fan, I was thinking, do any of these guys ever have that love/hate within them when competing on the track? I mean every year you hope to see those great rivalry's grow. However, I feel that there are none. I think with good rivals that really get heated on the track, you bring an extra people in each week to the track.
I'd love to see it where you have the occasional rub of the fender on the cool down lap like Unzicker gave Shirley this summer at Fairbury. I love to see Feger and Weaver tangle on top like in the shootout this year. While I am not condoning hard out of control driving, I like the fact that it can develop into a love/hate rivalry on the track. I don't see that Leka/Weaver rivalry I saw in the late 80's. I don't see that Long/Rientz rivalry like you seen in Fairbury in the 80's.
As of right now, they all respect one another and the only thing that may develop into a heated rival to where you might see the occasional "talk to" in the pits is the battle of old verse new. I thought a few times some of todays young gung don't show the patience as needed. So I think we'll see it more often than not soon. You can only get ran over so many times before we get the needed attitude of I'm going to get him back.
Rivals...we need them.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Gremlin Reins In
Shout out to, "the gremlin" Ryan Unzicker this year. Truley this fan's racer of the year. Ryan is a pretty cool and calm driver and really happy to see the run he's made this year with the UMP points.
Just read where he finished 3rd last night in Kankakee, but what is more important is not having a DNF this late in the season. A week ago Sundy night, he was leading the ten-thousand to win race at Fairbury in the Prarie Dirt Classic only to see a late race restart surge by Eric Smith overcome his chances.
What I like about Ryan...he's just pretty simple. I've been with a few other drivers while they've been around the guy...and he is just smooth and calm. The youngster is alwasy willing to listen to questions and never is one to frey from maybe a word advice.
When "the squirel" Brian Shirly took Ryan's chance to have a solid opportunity to have a chance at the summernationals in Fairbury this summer, Ryan still took time to be civil. When I walked up to him that night and said hey...I think you were screwed and I appreciate your retaliation on the track...he simple reponded that he felt he was simply the end user of a driver out of control. He didn't give me a big oh always me kind of discussion...he just said his piece and moved on. Pretty much class to me.
So anyway, got to say again congrats Ryan on a successful 2011 year. We all look forward to what you bring to Central Il next year. Congrats champ.
Just read where he finished 3rd last night in Kankakee, but what is more important is not having a DNF this late in the season. A week ago Sundy night, he was leading the ten-thousand to win race at Fairbury in the Prarie Dirt Classic only to see a late race restart surge by Eric Smith overcome his chances.
What I like about Ryan...he's just pretty simple. I've been with a few other drivers while they've been around the guy...and he is just smooth and calm. The youngster is alwasy willing to listen to questions and never is one to frey from maybe a word advice.
When "the squirel" Brian Shirly took Ryan's chance to have a solid opportunity to have a chance at the summernationals in Fairbury this summer, Ryan still took time to be civil. When I walked up to him that night and said hey...I think you were screwed and I appreciate your retaliation on the track...he simple reponded that he felt he was simply the end user of a driver out of control. He didn't give me a big oh always me kind of discussion...he just said his piece and moved on. Pretty much class to me.
So anyway, got to say again congrats Ryan on a successful 2011 year. We all look forward to what you bring to Central Il next year. Congrats champ.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
A Look Back
This seaons had its fair share of suprises and dissapointments. Thought I'd take some time to talk about a few of them. Afterall, we can start refelcting since the season locally closed with the rainout at Lasalle Speedway last night. So lets beging
Top race of year without a doubt was the summernational race at Fairbury this summer. The race was appeared to be in control by 14 year Bobbie Pierce Jr. However Pierce made the wrong move and moved up the track to get around a lap car. Rodney Melvin and Jason Feger moved on by. Both of them would battle on the last laps where the photo finish gave Rodne the win. Feger protested and he had the right, but at the end, it was Melvin awarded the win.
Worst race of year...Summernationals at Lincoln. Car count was very low and the race surface was iffy at best. I honestly couldn't wait to get out of there that night. Babb dominated and it was just an awful day and race. Spending 20 dollard elsewhere should of been what I had done
Tough luck driver of the summer. Dennis Erb. Erb ran his Bloomquist chassis this year but without any signifigant wins that I can recall. To me, he seemed almost just average this year. Not once this year did I see any races where he was made a move. He pretty much finished where he started and to me that is a driver who simply is struggling and in need of some better luck
Top race of year without a doubt was the summernational race at Fairbury this summer. The race was appeared to be in control by 14 year Bobbie Pierce Jr. However Pierce made the wrong move and moved up the track to get around a lap car. Rodney Melvin and Jason Feger moved on by. Both of them would battle on the last laps where the photo finish gave Rodne the win. Feger protested and he had the right, but at the end, it was Melvin awarded the win.
Worst race of year...Summernationals at Lincoln. Car count was very low and the race surface was iffy at best. I honestly couldn't wait to get out of there that night. Babb dominated and it was just an awful day and race. Spending 20 dollard elsewhere should of been what I had done
Tough luck driver of the summer. Dennis Erb. Erb ran his Bloomquist chassis this year but without any signifigant wins that I can recall. To me, he seemed almost just average this year. Not once this year did I see any races where he was made a move. He pretty much finished where he started and to me that is a driver who simply is struggling and in need of some better luck
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Farmer City Thoughts
Been going to that track since I was darn near 5. I've seen it when the likes of the red #7 won...and he went by the name of Jim Leka. Of course...there was no sponsor on that car. Dude was tough...
That was 30 some years ago.
This year saw good racing on a surface that i've seen very tough to conquer. The track crew...they give it their best. However this is a track that for whatever reason, has it's tendency to become one lane...or really good. This Farmer City ... and by fast the fastest in east central IL.
This was a year in which the Dewitt Country fairgrounds came back to life after some long stuggles with local city board officials. But lets face it...this is really the grounds of the Farmer City raceway. They make the town on summer nights. However...the lust of a Friday night in Farmer City's best asset to their community...is gone
I was there when the Dewitt County Fair was supposed to be there...but there was no fair. To hear the annoucner say this is the fair weekend....shows how much the community ... and state...has completely blown small town amusement apart.
Bottom line is the track is in the small town of Farmer City. So sad that things in this town have gotten so bad to where there are wars about what to do with the track. Farmer City is where I grew up on late model racin before the likes of Unzicker, Smith and Feger were born. I want to see more racing for weeks to come.
Rage on to the crew of Farmer City.
That was 30 some years ago.
This year saw good racing on a surface that i've seen very tough to conquer. The track crew...they give it their best. However this is a track that for whatever reason, has it's tendency to become one lane...or really good. This Farmer City ... and by fast the fastest in east central IL.
This was a year in which the Dewitt Country fairgrounds came back to life after some long stuggles with local city board officials. But lets face it...this is really the grounds of the Farmer City raceway. They make the town on summer nights. However...the lust of a Friday night in Farmer City's best asset to their community...is gone
I was there when the Dewitt County Fair was supposed to be there...but there was no fair. To hear the annoucner say this is the fair weekend....shows how much the community ... and state...has completely blown small town amusement apart.
Bottom line is the track is in the small town of Farmer City. So sad that things in this town have gotten so bad to where there are wars about what to do with the track. Farmer City is where I grew up on late model racin before the likes of Unzicker, Smith and Feger were born. I want to see more racing for weeks to come.
Rage on to the crew of Farmer City.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Eric Smith win @ the Prarie Dirt Classic
I wanted to blog about the racing last night at the Fairbury American Legion speedway.
It was the 3rd attempt to get the race in and finally mother nature cooperated. The early afternoon was at times overcast, cloudy and even sunny. The cool air allowed the moisture to really settle and was a factor for qualifying as the later lap times turned out to be the best. Had it not been for Jay Morris being lite at the scales after his lap, it would of been the first time i've ever seen the last qualifier out set fast time. Very rare.
On to the feature. The race started out just as I figured as the outside front row starter Shannon Babb jumped into the lead. I felt early the highside would be where most of top 8 would venture to in order to sort things out. Turns out that is what happened and some drivers decided to make a night of it and would ultimately cost them their night. Several younger drivers were absolutely flying on top, but also out of control. Most wound up broke or had flat tires. But not Eric Smith
Smith used brains in his quest . He moved up using the bottom of the track and followed Jason Unzicker. They both were committed to running the bottom and due to the 10 cautions, the tires were in good shape. Smith was quoted as committing to the bottom to stay out of trouble because those who had rode the cushion were all no longer in the race. However with 6 to go and a fresh restart, Eric gambled and decided to change lines and went to the top. Unlike many who attempted to run the top, Eric drove his car in with some degree of caution. He wasn't running it so hard that jumping the cushion and bouncing off the wall would hamper his ability to pass Unizicker on the bottom. He drove 6 beautiful laps on top and from this viewers eyes, never bobbled once. He race program now is $10,000 greener.
Smith is a well respected driver here in central IL. He is a track champion locally at Farmer City and Fairbury. He is a tough competitor night in and out. No matter who the competition is locally, you can bet the #9 will be up there. He reminds me a lot of Roger Long in a way. Roger was always tough no matter who showed up. Only difference is Roger ran the top a lot more while i've seen Eric be able to use multiple grooves to pass the competition. In a race that is one of the tops in the state, it is deserved to see a local make the list of champions...one who is loyal to running locally.
It was the 3rd attempt to get the race in and finally mother nature cooperated. The early afternoon was at times overcast, cloudy and even sunny. The cool air allowed the moisture to really settle and was a factor for qualifying as the later lap times turned out to be the best. Had it not been for Jay Morris being lite at the scales after his lap, it would of been the first time i've ever seen the last qualifier out set fast time. Very rare.
On to the feature. The race started out just as I figured as the outside front row starter Shannon Babb jumped into the lead. I felt early the highside would be where most of top 8 would venture to in order to sort things out. Turns out that is what happened and some drivers decided to make a night of it and would ultimately cost them their night. Several younger drivers were absolutely flying on top, but also out of control. Most wound up broke or had flat tires. But not Eric Smith
Smith used brains in his quest . He moved up using the bottom of the track and followed Jason Unzicker. They both were committed to running the bottom and due to the 10 cautions, the tires were in good shape. Smith was quoted as committing to the bottom to stay out of trouble because those who had rode the cushion were all no longer in the race. However with 6 to go and a fresh restart, Eric gambled and decided to change lines and went to the top. Unlike many who attempted to run the top, Eric drove his car in with some degree of caution. He wasn't running it so hard that jumping the cushion and bouncing off the wall would hamper his ability to pass Unizicker on the bottom. He drove 6 beautiful laps on top and from this viewers eyes, never bobbled once. He race program now is $10,000 greener.
Smith is a well respected driver here in central IL. He is a track champion locally at Farmer City and Fairbury. He is a tough competitor night in and out. No matter who the competition is locally, you can bet the #9 will be up there. He reminds me a lot of Roger Long in a way. Roger was always tough no matter who showed up. Only difference is Roger ran the top a lot more while i've seen Eric be able to use multiple grooves to pass the competition. In a race that is one of the tops in the state, it is deserved to see a local make the list of champions...one who is loyal to running locally.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Cold Weather Alert!
Wow fans...middle of September and I've turned on the heat in my house!
Still makes me wonder about this upcoming weekend. Many dirt late model Illinois drivers will make their way down south to compete at Pontoon Speedway....or better known to me as Granite City Speedway for a chance to cash in against the best in the World Of Outlaws special tomorrow night Sept 16. Then they will be onward to Peavley Speedway just south St. Louis.
While I'm not too concerned for the drivers...I have to say...man, the weather may kill some crowd expectancy. Back in April or even early May...we all yearned to get out of the house and at least get some outside time. A buddy of mine and I took in some early Farmer City raceway nights...only to sit in the truck most of the night. Yet though, we needed/wanted that because we knew the season was just getting started. You braved it knowing warmer days were ahead.
Now here it is ... middle September and already we are wondering if these late season races will even get in. Last check of the 3-4 day outlook showed in Illinois clear, but colder temperatures for the evenings. Will that kill some turnout in Granite City and Missouri? I sure hope not because at this late juncture of the season...remakes at this point could be very tough...if not impossible. I was thinking of Kankakee, IL tomorrow night...but too much uncertainty has this race fan likely listening to the local hometown football team.
Tis the season for uncertainty...but hey...uncertainty is life. I'll still be in Fairbury come snow Sunday.
SideBite27
Still makes me wonder about this upcoming weekend. Many dirt late model Illinois drivers will make their way down south to compete at Pontoon Speedway....or better known to me as Granite City Speedway for a chance to cash in against the best in the World Of Outlaws special tomorrow night Sept 16. Then they will be onward to Peavley Speedway just south St. Louis.
While I'm not too concerned for the drivers...I have to say...man, the weather may kill some crowd expectancy. Back in April or even early May...we all yearned to get out of the house and at least get some outside time. A buddy of mine and I took in some early Farmer City raceway nights...only to sit in the truck most of the night. Yet though, we needed/wanted that because we knew the season was just getting started. You braved it knowing warmer days were ahead.
Now here it is ... middle September and already we are wondering if these late season races will even get in. Last check of the 3-4 day outlook showed in Illinois clear, but colder temperatures for the evenings. Will that kill some turnout in Granite City and Missouri? I sure hope not because at this late juncture of the season...remakes at this point could be very tough...if not impossible. I was thinking of Kankakee, IL tomorrow night...but too much uncertainty has this race fan likely listening to the local hometown football team.
Tis the season for uncertainty...but hey...uncertainty is life. I'll still be in Fairbury come snow Sunday.
SideBite27
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Prairie Dirt Classic 2011 - Fairbury Speedway
I thought I'd take sometime today and discuss my thoughts on one of Illinois's best races to attend. It is the annual Prairie Dirt Classic held at the American Legion speedway in Fairbury, IL. This is one of state's premier races sanctioned by the United Midwestern Promoters. It pays $10,000 to win winner of the 50 lap feature.
This is the 22nd running of the event. The first event was held in 1990 and was won by local favorite and still active driver Snooky Dehm of Chatsworth, IL. I remember him holding on for that win after he gave up the race late. He wound up leading the last 7 laps for the $3500 payday. It was by far the biggest win in his career. The most disappointed that night had to of been Tom Pauly...as he took the lead from Snooky late only to see his engine grenade the next lap after passing Dehm.
This race has had it fair share of repeat winners. When I say repeat though, I should say repeating...in streaks. A now retired dirt late model racer from IL who has shared 5 wins...through 2 streaks is Bob Pierce of Danville, IL. Bob won back to back titles in 1994 and 1995 and then went on for the three peat from 1999-2001. He is tied for most wins with current active driver from Arkansas...Billy Moyer
So on to this year. What to expect. Well for starters the local talent here in IL will be in full force Sunday night. Expect to see the likes of Smith, Erb, Babb, Bull, Feger, Friedman, Lance, Weaver, Spitola, Unizicker...and list goes on. With the cool weather the way it has been this week across central IL, I expect the track to be pretty heavy and to hold moisture through the night. In my opinion, this holds well for drivers like Feger, Spitola, Bull who all love to ride the dangerous side on the top and hold it to the floor. However Fairbury's bottom groove always seems to come into play, so I look for it to be the choice of lane come feature time for those picking their way through the pack. Expect to see the top 4 use the first 10 laps to ride the momentum on top. By lap 15, I'm thinking lap traffic will pull them off the top...and then the real racing will begin.
My prediction: I expect IL driver such as Feger, Smith and Spitola to contend. Bull has been awfully tough. However, the rumors are some of the nations best will be making up the trip up Sunday from a big race held in Peavley, MO. I'll take Wisconsin's Jimmy Mars, Jason Feger, Billy Moyer, Shannon Babb, Scottie Bull for my top 5.
SideBite27
This is the 22nd running of the event. The first event was held in 1990 and was won by local favorite and still active driver Snooky Dehm of Chatsworth, IL. I remember him holding on for that win after he gave up the race late. He wound up leading the last 7 laps for the $3500 payday. It was by far the biggest win in his career. The most disappointed that night had to of been Tom Pauly...as he took the lead from Snooky late only to see his engine grenade the next lap after passing Dehm.
This race has had it fair share of repeat winners. When I say repeat though, I should say repeating...in streaks. A now retired dirt late model racer from IL who has shared 5 wins...through 2 streaks is Bob Pierce of Danville, IL. Bob won back to back titles in 1994 and 1995 and then went on for the three peat from 1999-2001. He is tied for most wins with current active driver from Arkansas...Billy Moyer
So on to this year. What to expect. Well for starters the local talent here in IL will be in full force Sunday night. Expect to see the likes of Smith, Erb, Babb, Bull, Feger, Friedman, Lance, Weaver, Spitola, Unizicker...and list goes on. With the cool weather the way it has been this week across central IL, I expect the track to be pretty heavy and to hold moisture through the night. In my opinion, this holds well for drivers like Feger, Spitola, Bull who all love to ride the dangerous side on the top and hold it to the floor. However Fairbury's bottom groove always seems to come into play, so I look for it to be the choice of lane come feature time for those picking their way through the pack. Expect to see the top 4 use the first 10 laps to ride the momentum on top. By lap 15, I'm thinking lap traffic will pull them off the top...and then the real racing will begin.
My prediction: I expect IL driver such as Feger, Smith and Spitola to contend. Bull has been awfully tough. However, the rumors are some of the nations best will be making up the trip up Sunday from a big race held in Peavley, MO. I'll take Wisconsin's Jimmy Mars, Jason Feger, Billy Moyer, Shannon Babb, Scottie Bull for my top 5.
SideBite27
Monday, September 12, 2011
Greetings IL Dirt Late Model Fans
Welcome to my first post related to my website based on the sport of late model dirt track racing in the state of Illinois. It is a sport that I've grown up around and love it still to this day.
I'm 36 years old, been married 6 years and have 2 kids. Life at the house can be hectic...so sometimes you got to go to where you still feel like a kid again. For me, I head to the nearby race tracks here in IL...or even venture 2-3 hrs away to some I've not been to in quite some time. I've been going to races since I was probably 4-5 years old. So since about 1980 or so, I've had the opportunity to see some great drivers come and go.
I 'm passionate about the sport and how much it has grown in 30 plus years. Sure there are those who have been around longer than me and can speak of sport from the mid 70's on back. To that I say, welcome! Share you commnets and educate me. Can't fault a guy who just wasn't born back then. I'm a history buff and I love to hear about past drivers and their tales.
However I'll also be blogging on some the races I took in over summer. I'll also be noting about some races that are late season races out of state where competitors from Illinois are competeing. One of my goals with this blog I have is I want to try and update some of you on the whereabouts of some of the drivers who have retired and what they are doing now that their sun has set.
Again, welcome!
SideBite27
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)